The Lowdown with Matt Munoz / Jan. - June, 2019 by Matt Munoz

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, January 3, 2019

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Country guitar icon Moles comes home

usicians can In that span of time, it be found in the changed the course of mustrangest of places sical history. so it’s no surprise that “The Mosrite’s guitar country music guitar icon design and feature set it Eugene Moles checked in apart from other brands at from a special destination the time. Semie was very on Wednesday. innovative.” “I’m at the (Kern) County Since leaving Bakersfield clerk’s office getting a for Nashville, Moles has marriage license,” he said stayed active in all areas of during an interview. the industry, performing, Before he working on ties the knot guitars and on Friday, he’s making music got some other in the studio business to to finish up his which he will latest self-titled attend: a rerelease that he lease party for will be promothis self-titled ing and selling record today at this evening. MATT MUNOZ the Bakersfield Featuring a mix FOR THE CALIFORNIAN Music Hall of of instrumenFame. tals and vocal It doesn’t get any more tunes each with authentic country than that, son. Eugene Moles feel, the Whether you’re a classic release also includes an country music enthusiast, unreleased song by the student of guitar or music late Del Reeves that Moles historian, the name Eugene performed regularly during Moles should be an essenhis years on the Grand Ole tial part of your studies. The Opry stage. son of country music pio“There’s still a vital neer Denver Eugene “Gene” country music scene for Moles Sr., it’s impossible traditional country music. to find a starting point to In Nashville, there are many his illustrious career as places you find gals singing both revered guitar tech Bonnie Owens, Wynn Stewand musician. And despite art, some western swing, the weight that comes Merle Haggard, Buck. All with the territory, Moles is the old stuff performed by content with having one young artists.” of the revered resumes in Which makes it perfect music including (but not for artists such as Moles limited to) performing as to be onstage to remind both a Stranger with Merle Bakersfield of its musical Haggard and a Buckaroo heritage. It’s not every with Buck Owens. Let’s day locals get a chance not forget building guitars, to see royalty make a starting at age 15, for the homecoming. Mosrite Guitars factory un“I usually visit Bakersfield der the direction of founder when there’s an event I’m Semie Mosely in Bakersfield involved with, which is during the golden era of about once or twice a year.” The Bakersfield Sound. And Joining Moles onstage that’s just the beginning (try at the Bakersfield Music Google for a treasure trove Hall of Fame will be Justin of history). Branum on fiddle, Mark “I’m very proud of The Abbott on bass, guitarist Bakersfield Sound, and to Craig Smith and drummer have grown in the decades Alvis Barnett. As further it flourished, I feel very forincentive to not miss this tunate,” he said. killer lineup, guitar-pickin’ Like the other pioneering wizard Deke Dickerson — electric guitar manufacturwho coincidentally rolled ers of their time, Mosrite through town this same Guitars also has the distime last year opening for tinction of being part of the Marty Stuart— will also evolution of much more perform. than just country music. “Deke Dickerson is great. From California surf music I first knew him through kings The Ventures, New the articles he wrote in York punks the Ramones, Guitar Player Magazine. He to Seattle grunge with Nirhired me to play guitar at vana, the Mosrite Guitar the grand opening of the has been slung in places a Bakersfield Sound exhibit” few dared to be different. at the Country Music Hall

PHOTO COURTESY OF EUGENE MOLES

Country music guitar icon Eugene Moles will perform this evening at the Bakersfield Music Hall of Fame for his record release party.

of Fame and Museum in Nashville. “I love his guitar playing as well as his taste in music.” If this hasn’t been enough to convince you, Moles has a final heartfelt plea. “I love you, Bakersfield. Please come out and see the show.” Welcome home. The show is 7 p.m. tonight at 2230 Q St. Tickets are $25 and $30 (plus ser-

vice fee) at the venue or Bakersfieldmusichallof fame.com. For more information, call 864-1701.

TAKING OVER TOKYO, LED ZEPPELIN STYLE The phrase “We’re big in Japan” has been thrown around jokingly among self-effacing musicians for as long as I can remember. But what if you had the opportunity to prove it? That’s exactly what hap-

pened to local singer August Young, who performed as a member of famed Led Zeppelin tribute act Mr. Jimmy in front of thousands of rabid classic rock fans at The Ex Theater Roppongi in Tokyo on Dec. 21. Stepping into the singing shoes of Led Zeppelin singer Robert Plant, Young seemed born to assume this role onstage after years fronting Bakersfield rock powerhouse The Aviators.

Recommended to Mr. Jimmy by the management of Hollywood’s famed Whisky A Go Go, where The Aviators has been making its mark the past few years, it was only a matter of time before a connection would be made. Guitarist Jimmy Sakurai formed Mr. Jimmy in Japan in 1994 performing Zeppelin hits before moving to the States and joining Please see LOWDOWN | 21

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, January 3, 2019

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Thursday, January 3, 2019 The Bakersfield Californian

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Just Released First Ever Lexus 2019 UX.

TICKET ROUNDUP

BUCK OWENS’ CRYSTAL PALACE 2800 Buck Owens Blvd. vallitix.com or 328-7560. Prices do not include service fees. ■■ Wednesday: Tommy

Emmanuel, 7:30 p.m. $45. ■■ Jan. 16: Randy Rogers Band, 7:30 p.m. $25. ■■ Jan. 17: Lindsay Ell, 7:30 p.m. $12.50-$20.50. ■■ Jan. 26: Steve Trevino, 7:30 p.m. $28-$45.

“Experience Amazing”

FOX THEATER 2001 H St. 489-4369. Ticketfly.com Price does not include service charges. ■■ Jan. 11: Chad Prather’s

Star Spangled Banter Tour, 8:30 p.m. $25-$139. ■■ Jan. 12: James Garner’s Tribute to Johnny Cash, 7:30 p.m. $20-$40. ■■ Jan. 13: “Gandhi,” 2 p.m. Free. ■■ Jan. 14: “Top Gun,” 7 p.m. $5. ■■ Jan. 15: Styx, 8 p.m. $40-$399. ■■ Jan. 18: “The Wife,” 7:30 p.m. $6. ■■ Jan. 24: Lewis Black, The Joke’s On Us Tour, 8 p.m. $39.50-$55. ■■ Jan. 25: Golden Dragon Acrobats, 7:30 p.m. $14-$36. ■■ Jan. 28: “Citizen Kane,” 7 p.m. $5. ■■ Feb. 1: “The Cakemaker,” 7:30 p.m. $6. ■■ Feb. 3: Russian Grand Ballet’s “Swan Lake,” 1 p.m. $14-$65. ■■ Feb. 4: “Moonstruck,” 7 p.m. $5. ■■ Feb. 11: “It Happened One Night,” 7 p.m. $5. ■■ Feb. 14: Brian Regan, 7:30 p.m. $42. ■■ Feb. 15: “Leave No Trace,” 7:30 p.m. $6. ■■ Feb. 16: Tiffany Haddish, #SheReady Tour, 8 p.m. $53-$153. ■■ Feb. 22: Piff the Magic Dragon, 7:30 p.m. $25-$39. ■■ March 1: “Pick of the Litter,” 7:30 p.m. $6. ■■ March 4: “Tombstone,” 7 p.m. $5. ■■ March 11: “One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest,” 7 p.m. $5. ■■ March 14: Chonda Pierce, Still Laughing Tour, 7 p.m. $23-$49. ■■ March 15: “Foxtrot,” 7:30 p.m. $6. ■■ March 29: “Borg vs. McEnroe,” 7:30 p.m. $6. ■■ April 2: Brothers Osborne, 8 p.m. $37-$47. ■■ April 10: Needtobreathe, 7 p.m.

PHOTO BY MICHAEL DUFFY

Carrie Underwood, shown in a 2016 appearance in Bakersfield, will return to Rabobank Arena on May 18 as part of her Cry Pretty Tour. $45-$55. ■■ April 12: “Chinese Take-

Away,” 7:30 p.m. $6. ■■ April 15: “Up in Smoke,”

7 p.m. $5. ■■ April 25: Ron White,

8 p.m. $45.50-$65.50. ■■ April 29: “The Grapes of

Wrath,” 7 p.m. $5. ■■ May 20: “Rocky,” 7 p.m.

$5. ■■ May 27: “Some Like It

Hot,” 7 p.m. $5. RABOBANK ARENA THEATER AND CONVENTION CENTER 1001 Truxtun Ave. rabobankarena.com, axs.com or 1-888-929-7849. Price does not include service charges. ■■ Jan. 14: “Jersey Boys,”

7:30 p.m. $35-$70. ■■ Jan. 25-26: Monster Trucks, 7:30 p.m. $13-42. ■■ Jan. 28: “The Wizard of Oz,” 7:30 p.m. $30-$70. ■■ Feb. 2: BSO: “From London to L.A.,” 7:30 p.m. $20-$45. ■■ Feb. 8: “Super Love Jam,” 7:30 p.m. $30.50-$69.50. ■■ Feb. 12: Harlem Globetrotters, 2 p.m. $25-$97. ■■ Feb. 15: Gabriel Iglesias, Beyond the Fluffy World Tour, 8 p.m. $31-$66. ■■ Feb. 19: PJ Masks Live: Save The Day, 6 p.m. $29.50-$129.50. ■■ March 3: “Stomp,” 3 p.m. $30-$60. ■■ March 7: 25th annual Voices of Inspiration 2019 Event, featuring guest speaker Mark Wahlberg. 5 p.m. $150-$200. ■■ March 20-24: Cirque

De Soleil Crystal, 7:30 p.m. March 20-22; 4 and 7 p.m. March 23; 1:30 p.m. March 24; 5 p.m. March 25, $83-$448. ■■ March 29: The Scared Scriptless Tour, with Colin Mochrie and Brad Sherwood, 7:30 p.m. $38.50. ■■ May 18: Carrie Underwood, Cry Pretty Tour 360, 7 p.m. $46-$96. ■■ May 28: New Kids On The Block, 7:30 p.m. $29.50-$159.50. TEMBLOR BREWING CO. 3200 Buck Owens Blvd. 489-4855, temblorbrewing.com. Price does not include service charges. For audiences 18 and over unless noted. ■■ Wednesday: Joel

McHale, 7 p.m. $35$50. (sold out) ■■ Feb. 8: Nick Swardson, 7 and 9 p.m. $35-$59. BAKERSFIELD MUSIC HALL OF FAME 2231 R St. 864-1701, bakersfieldmusichalloffame. com. ■■ Today: Eugene Moles

record release party, 7 p.m. $25-$30. ■■ Jan. 10: Led Zepagain: Tribute to Led Zeppelin, 7 p.m. $30-$35. ■■ Jan. 17: Lacy J. Dalton, 7 p.m. $25-$30. ■■ Feb. 14: Jay White: Tribute to Neil Diamond, 6:30 p.m. $38-$45. ■■ March 14: Hollywood Stones: Tribute to Rolling Stones, 7 p.m. $30-$35. ■■ March 22: The Quebe Sisters, Live Texas Fid-

dle Music, 7 p.m. $18. EDWARDS BAKERSFIELD STADIUM 14 9000 Ming Ave. 844-4627342, FathomEvents.com ■■ Saturday: “Mob Psycho

100,” 12:55 p.m. $12.50. ■■ Wednesday: “Rachel Hollis Presents: Made For More,” 7:30 p.m. $15. ■■ Jan 10 and 12: “Modest Heroes,” 7 p.m. Jan. 10 and 12:55 p.m. Jan. 12. $12.50. ■■ Jan. 12 and 16: “Adriana Lecouvreur,” 9:55 a.m. Jan. 12 and 6:30 p.m. Jan. 16. $18-$24. ■■ Jan. 13 and 14: “The Death of Superman” and “Reign of The Superman,” double feature, 12:55 p.m. Jan. 13 and 8 p.m. Jan. 14. $12.50. ■■ Jan. 17: “Wonders of the Sea 3D,” 7 p.m. $12.50-$15. ■■ Jan. 20: “La Bayadere,” 12:55 p.m. $18. ■■ Jan. 23: “Cyrano de Bergerac,” 7 p.m. $15. ■■ Jan. 24: “The Final Wish,” 7:30 p.m. $12.50. ■■ Jan. 26: “BTS World Tour Love Yourself In Seoul,” 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. $16. ■■ Jan. 27, 29 and 30: “The Wizard of Oz,” 80th anniversary, 2 p.m. Jan. 27; 7 p.m. Jan. 29 and 30. $12.50. ■■ Jan. 28 and 31: “A Silent Voice,” 7 p.m. $12.50. ■■ Feb. 7 and 10: “I Want to Eat Your Pancreas,” 7 p.m. Feb. 7 and 12:55 p.m. Feb. 10. $12.50.

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Southern California Led Zeppelin tribute band Led Zeppagain, before re-forming Mr. Jimmy (along with touring as a member of drummer Jason Bonham’s Led Zeppelin Evening show). That’s a whole lotta Zepp. Taking up the group’s offer last year, Young jumped into action. “I was given the set list for the show back in May or June of 2018 and started working on the songs immediately. I worked on this show on and off for six to seven months, studying Robert Plant’s movements and phrasings and also dropped 30 pounds in the process. The show was a full recreation, all the way down to the stage setup, lighting and banter in between songs, of a 1977 bootleg titled ‘Listen to this, Eddie.’” If you’ve caught Young and The Aviators onstage before, you’ve seen Young’s command at the mic with the voice and moves of a classic rocker reincarnated. Throwing down all the rock god

PHOTO BY MEGUMI KADOKURA

Jimmy Sakurai and August Young perform in the Led Zeppelin tribute Mr. Jimmy at The Ex Theater Roppongi in Tokyo, Japan, on Dec. 21.

moves in full Zeppelin mode, Mr. Jimmy scored big with Young at the mic. So how was the audience? “The Japanese crowd was awesome. They were extremely polite. They would clap after every song and cheer and then it would be dead quiet. You had their full attention.” Big in Japan, indeed. Fans can catch Young with Mr. Jimmy on Feb. 23 back at the Whisky A Go Go. You can also catch Young

as his solo acoustic alter ego, Dive Bar Jesus, all over town in between gigs. For more information, check out Mr. Jimmy at mrjimmyledzeppelinrevival.com or The Aviators at theaviatorsrock.com. Contributing columnist Matt Munoz brings you the latest news on Bakersfield’s music scene every other Thursday.

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fries, Villarreal said there will be fewer options on Saturday just to avoid long wait times. Along with two specials, which had not been selected as of press time, options will include a classic cheeseburger, which he recommends, standard hot dog and Evolution fries, which resemble animal-style In-N-Out fries with sliced vegan cheese, grilled onions and Evolution spread, a housemade Thousand Island dressing. Since opening last spring, Villarreal said there have been more plantbased SoCal contenders coming up like Monty’s Good Burger, with locations in L.A.’s Koreatown and Riverside. “It’s everywhere now. The real junk food scene had really taken hold.” Now Evolution has some flexibility to travel to other locations with its truck and three other smaller mobile units. Villarreal said they’ve gone to Phoenix and Fresno recently as well as

Hosted by Evolution Burger When: 1 to 8 p.m. Saturday Where: 1st Amendment Tattoo, 7401 White Lane #6

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The classic cheeseburger at Evolution Burger is a must-try according to owner Dominique Villarreal.

Tehachapi (at Local Craft Beer) last week, with plans to head to Ventura and Sacramento. He said, “We’re all about getting out to the areas with low options for the

vegan community.” And while some may argue we’ve already got some great vegan junk food — The Hen’s Roost, Shake N’ Buns, Guapo’s Tacos, Vida Vegan, to

name a few — it’s nice to have more options. Villarreal said the Bakersfield tattoo shop (and the Tehachapi brewery) both reached out to bring Evolution Burger to schedule pop-up events. Based on the response, the truck may return for another event in the spring or possibly as a farmers market vendor. “I’m sure the demand is there,” he said. For now, he’s just keeping an eye on the weekend. “The crew is really friendly and we’re excited to come out.” Stefani Dias can be reached at 661-395-7488. Follow her on Twitter at @ realstefanidias.

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, January 17, 2019

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Black ready to discuss opinions — his and yours L ewis Black operates like a GPS of comedy. But instead of avoiding trouble spots, he prefers a traffic jam, requiring listeners to stop, look, listen and sometimes contribute to the conversation at hand. Making his return to the Fox Theater on Jan. 24, the award-winning veteran funnyman promises to call it as he sees it for The Joke’s On Us Tour, his latest live show. “It’s really the same happy-golucky stuff,” said Black during a recent phone interview. “It’s about stuff that I’ve stumbled on over the past year that I think describes the problems we’re going through without talking much about ‘him’ or the rest of these idiots who are involved in this.” If you’ve figured out which “him” he’s referring to, you are correct. (If not, think White House.) Did he say “happy-go-lucky”? “Trump is to comedy in the same way that stroke is to a nap.” These are the jokes, folks. Consider this your final warning. Introduced to mainstream America through his popular segments on Comedy Central’s “The Daily Show” that made their debut in 1996, Black’s observational style from the point of view of the everyday American continues to be a hit for the show now hosted by fellow comedian Trevor Noah, who stepped into the role following the departure of longtime host Jon Stewart. In addition to over 53 acting credits to his name, Black has maintained a balance between being himself and playing various characters. According to his IMDB page, Black’s official first acting role is listed as “Paul” in the 1986 Woody Allen movie “Hannah and Her Sisters.” Not bad. “I’ve been offered certain things, but usually I’m not getting paid or I don’t wanna do ‘em. When you look back at your career, I might have done more if I went to L.A., but I was never happy out there. I had other things that I wanted to do. Rather than be in Los Angeles, I wrote three books. So that was a choice.” Need an opinion? Black has them. When asked about the world’s obsession with social networking and self-promotion, he wasn’t short on going in on the attention spans of Americans. “I use it for advertising purposes. It’s getting harder and harder to get word out that you’re coming to a place. This is how I reach people who follow me. And even with that, people will still say, ‘How come you’re not coming to Wisconsin as part of your tour? And I’m like, ‘I was just in Wisconsin.’ You literally can’t get enough

PHOTO BY DANA WASHINGTON PHOTO BY REBEKAH LEMONS

Cover art for “Bakersfield,” the new seven-song EP by local country singer Ashley Taylor, now residing in Nashville.

PHOTO COURTESY OF LEWIS BLACK

Comedian Lewis Black will perform Jan. 24 at the Fox Theater.

information out to people. With anyone else before ever. I’ve made every type of media I use, people jokes about all of them. People still walk up to me in cities I’m will ask, ‘How come you don’t do performing and say, jokes about Obama?’ I ‘What are you doing say, ‘Where were you?’ here?’” You’ve obviously never To help ensure the come to see a show of word is out, Black mine (expletive)!’” has made audience Black can currently engagement a part of be seen in a bit part his live show, seeking in the Netflix comedy tourist information “The Last Laugh,” from fans living in citstarring Richard DreyMATT MUNOZ ies he’ll be appearing fuss and Chevy Chase. at his official website, FOR THE CALIFORNIAN One place you won’t lewisblack.com. catch him is hosting There you can also “Suggest a the Oscars, unless they ask. Rant” for possible live discussion “Sure I would. If I can do it from by Black during his show. Accordmy couch.” ing to Black, it’s not an angry mob Tickets for the Jan. 24 show he’s discovering through these can be purchased at Vallitix.com. submissions, but rather a bevy Ticket prices range from $39.50 of hidden talents. Call it “citizen to $55 (plus service charge). The comedy” if you will. Bakersfield is show starts at 8 p.m. For more inencouraged to submit their rants formation, visit thebakersfieldfox. prior to the show. com or call 324-1369. “The overall theme is that the ASHLEY TAYLOR people can really communicate well, even the people whom one You know what they say: “You would think in terms of what can take the girl out of Bakersfield, they’re writing to you and their but you can’t take the Bakersfield background, you wouldn’t think out of the girl,” but for country they had those communication singer-songwriter Ashley Taylor, skills. And the stuff that I’ve rethat connection goes much deeper. ceived as this has gone on, the Eager to finally release her new writing has gotten better and seven-song EP, “Bakersfield,” after stronger, smarter and more intermonths of preparation to country esting; and it’s hopeful.” music fans everywhere today, the And while Black expects pushmulti-talented Taylor takes her back by those who don’t necesmusical roots to heart. sarily agree with his politically “If I was not brought up on the infused style of comedy, don’t Bakersfield Sound, I would not expect any apologies. have that influence in my music “There’s more blowback now today,” said the Bakersfield nawith Trump in office than from tive who currently calls Nashville

home. I would be a very different person and artist. I am always proud to say where I come from.” Paying homage to country traditions in her catchy compositions, the 25-year-old musician is confident her time is now. “I knew I wanted to pay tribute to my roots and the Bakersfield Sound but also give it a modern touch and put my own spin on things.” Taylor has been a familiar voice among independent country music fans, performing at local events, wowing audiences at the Bakersfield Country Music Awards where she also was honored for her accomplishments in 2017. But after leaving the easy-going comforts of home three years ago for the hustle and rustle of Music City where country dreams are made, Taylor says from the moment she packed her bags, life has been an adventure worthy of its own set of tunes. “People here in Nashville idolize and respect Bakersfield and constantly pay tribute to all we’ve done for country music and the place we hold in its history. I really pulled the inspiration for these songs from true-life events that happened.” What would life be in country music’s mecca if there wasn’t a run-in with a legend or two? “Oh man, I have had a bunch. I ran into Reba in a bathroom one time and got caught in an elevator with Willie Nelson. You never know who you are gonna see or meet.” Produced independently over the past two years at the home studio of producer Pat Lassiter, whose studio credits include an extensive list of up-and-coming country talents, “Bakersfield” reflects Taylor’s independent spirit. “I was blessed to be able to get these wonderful and talented musicians together,” she said. “A lot of these guys who played on this record are legends and play with names like Brooks & Dunn, Blake Shelton, Dwight Yoakam. I surrounded myself with good people and we all listened and

SoCal traditional reggae ska vocalist Jackie Mendez will perform Friday with The Capsouls at Sandrini’s Public House.

worked toward the same goal.” The EP’s title track and accompanying music video on YouTube say it all with her hometown as the central subject of love and inspiration. “We’re loud and we’re proud and we have our own sound …” she sings in the video filled with landmarks from Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace to favorite hangs of her youth. The sweet tune is everything you’d expect from a well-crafted country anthem and more. “I miss my friends and family who all still live there. Also, it may sound crazy but I really miss InN-Out Burger. I miss Bakersfield and luckily I get to go back a few times a year, but Nashville is where I need to be right now and it truly feels just like home.” Taylor has no immediate plans to perform in Bakersfield, but you can expect her to play later this year at the Kern County Fair, with a few more shows added. Until then, fans can stream and download “Bakersfield” starting Friday at Spotify, Apple Music and all digital music outlets. You can also purchase physical autographed copies at her website, ashleytaylormusic.com.

MATT’S PICK Jackie Mendez, The Capsouls, 9 p.m. Friday, Sandrini’s Public House, 1918 Eye St. $5. 322-8900. As one of the reigning queens of the SoCal Jamaican soul and reggae music scene, songstress Jackie Mendez has proven herself worthy of the crown. After indie label Angel City Records released her debut EP in 2013, underground music fans soon took notice of Mendez, helping elevate her status among fans of classic Jamaican and UK classic sounds across the pond and south of the border. Her latest single and YouTube music video for “Forever True” is a sweet homage to her musical influences. Paired up with Bakersfield’s very own traditional reggae squad The Capsouls and mad musical selector Mr. Big Shot spinning vinyl between sets, a soul shakedown is guaranteed. Highly recommended.

Thursday, January 31, 2019 The Bakersfield Californian

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Hate Drugs brings ‘Tsunami’ to local music scene

atching up with bands like Hate Drugs, which is releasing its new album “Tsunami Soul I” on Friday, reminds me why I enjoy the anticipation of the new release date reminder on my calendar, a feeling all music freaks will understand. However, these days it takes a special band to have that effect with the inundation of music streaming via curated playlists, mostly paid for by the last remaining major labels acting as robotic tastemakers. Which brings us back to the excitement surrounding the local release of “Tsunami Soul I,” the band’s long-awaited follow-up to 2017’s “Tsunami Soul II.” PHOTO BY KEATON PUNCH “These albums (‘TsuBakersfield indie rock quintet Hate Drugs will release its nami Soul I and II’) are two new full-length album “Tsunami Soul I” on Friday. parts of the same story,” said lead vocalist David ments and vocals digitally Caploe. “Both albums were and then ran each individdesigned to be listened to ual stem through tape, in as part of a meta cohesive order to pull out the sonic work of art while retaining color and allow the pieces their autonomy to breathe. as individual “There was phases of a also a significycle.” cant difference Noting the in the amount album has a of editing we “large creative did on this alPHOTO BY JONATHAN COLIN footprint,” Cabum. The takes Cover art for “Tsunami ploe said the are much more Soul I” by Hate Drugs, songs are a mix raw, and there which the band will MATT MUNOZ of those created is a humanity to release Friday. FOR THE CALIFORNIAN in the demo that I feel added process along a special quality album, the tropical pop of with others written years to the album.” “Saint Joe” shows off anago. After opening with other potent songwriting “The intention for this the minute-long intro of side to the band, while the album was to create a “Drowsy,” the album’s secmaturity of “GHST” ranks warmer and more satond track “Out of Touch” as one of album’s best urated environment for with its Motown-inspired moments, with a special the listener to immerse beat has a great, soulful appearance by Bakersfield themselves, and hopefully, bounce. saxophonist Isaiah Morfin capture the sound of the Followed up by “Drive in the mix. band in a more honest way. Me Crazy,” released last “I really love working We tracked all of the instru- year as a primer for the with creative people and

working with Isaiah has always been exciting and inspiring,” said Caploe. “He’s so talented, and open to wild ideas. I brought him in at the tail end of the project. He came over to my house, I shared my vision with him, and he just popped in and killed it.” After the album release on Friday, the band keeps up the momentum with its first show of the year headlining the Teragram Ballroom in Los Angeles on Feb. 8. Caploe said, “Most of the fans that we have made have found us through the powerful connective nature of social media and music streaming platforms, but through touring, we’ve been able to turn these fans into family. And this family is bigger than the music. It’s fostered friendships and impacted people in ways that will outlive the songs.” Local fans don’t fret, there are plans for a local release party sometime in late February or early

PHOTO BY SANDEE SING LISUK

Local punk band Primer Grey performs at the Fox Theater in the mid-’80s in this screenshot from Bakersfield music documentary “Bones of Brundage.” The film by Nate Berg is now available for rent and purchase online.

March, before the group heads back to the SXSW Conference & Festivals in Austin and more touring. “Tsunami Soul I” by Hate

Drugs can be downloaded and streamed at digital outlets beginning Friday. Please see LOWDOWN | 21

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The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, January 31, 2019

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Free Yoga in Plaza returns Friday to outside Rabobank BY KELLY ARDIS kardis@bakersfield.com

veryone can use a little more tranquility in their lives, and one local organization wants to break down some of the barriers that might keep people from trying yoga and enjoying its benefits. Yoga in the Plaza, a free introductory-level yoga class put on by White Wolf Wellness Foundation, is returning on Friday to the Centennial Plaza outside Rabobank Arena. “Our Yoga in the Plaza events are open to anyone and everyone,” Geoffrey Taylor, executive director of White Wolf Wellness, wrote in an email. “From first-timers to seasoned yogis, this session provides a gentle movement and focused breathing practice to align the mind and body of all.” With Rabobank Arena and Samsara Wellness Center as partners, White Wolf will hold the free outdoor session once a month through May. Participants are encouraged to wear comfortable, seasonally appropriate clothing and bring their own yoga mat and water. “During this event, our instructor leads the group through targeted breathing exercises that can reduce stress and increase energy, along with gentle movement that can help participants align mind and body through a series of yoga postures and poses,” Taylor said. “Each event is intended to provide the community with no-cost access to boutique quality yoga in a public setting.” More than a dozen people, of all skill levels, came to the January event.

‘YEARS’

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relationship of these characters and the chemistry between the actors differs from person to person, thus creating an individual and unique version of Cathy and Jamie each time. Hopefully, the audience will be able to relate and empathize with one of them.” There’s a lot for audiences to take away from

LOWDOWN

“Experience Amazing”

COURTESY OF WHITE WOLF WELLNESS FOUNDATION

On Friday, White Wolf Wellness Foundation will return to Centennial Plaza with its free Yoga in the Plaza class outside of Rabobank Arena. The monthly series will also happen on March 15, April 12 and May 10, all at noon.

“People were incredibly grateful for the opportunity to practice in that setting and to share in something that isn’t too common here in Bakersfield,” Taylor said. “Overwhelmingly, every comment we got was positive, though there’s always room for us to improve the events and make them even better.” While anyone can benefit from yoga, Taylor acknowledged that there are barriers that can keep people from trying it. “We are excited to continue our partnership with Rabobank Arena to provide the public with unprecedented access to a wellness practice that is often cost-prohibitive and inaccessible for marginalized or underserved populations in our community,” he said. Yoga in the Plaza is just one of the many ways White Wolf Wellness aims

this show, Saldana said, and an emotional connection to be had regardless of with whom or what you identify. “I think the fact that love and relationships are something that happen to every single person on this planet in some shape and form and being able to see other people going through what you might be going through or have gone through is cathartic. And really we could all use some catharsis right

YOGA IN THE PLAZA When: Noon Friday; additional sessions March 15, April 12 and May 10 at the same time Where: Centennial Plaza at Rabobank Arena, 1001 Truxtun Ave. Admission: Free Information: whitewolfwellness.org/ events/ or 374-8693

to make the practice more accessible in Kern County. The nonprofit also offers free yoga sessions in Delano, Arvin, Wasco, Taft, Tehachapi and Frazier Park. In April, it will start a monthly series with the Bakersfield Museum of Art, on the first Friday of each month until October. It also has a program focused on bringing mindfulness to

now.” To encourage people to make it an outing, Saldana also developed a happy hour menu that guests can enjoy a half-hour before the show or afterward. Items ($5 each) include jalapeno popper dip with kettle chips, roasted pine nut hummus with pita bread, Buffalo ranch mixed nuts and pretzels and petite mousse trio. Cocktails, themed for the seasons, and beer and

local classrooms. “More than anything, I want people to find a little more tranquility in their day and share that tranquility with others around them,” Taylor said. “Yoga is just one way to do that.” In a public yoga class like the one at Centennial Plaza, each person gets something different out of the session, he said, whether it’s anxiety relief or intention-setting for a goal or something else. “No person in Bakersfield that wants to find no-cost yoga, meditation or mindfulness practices should ever go without,” Taylor said, “and White Wolf Wellness Foundation is here to ensure that our city and county are brighter, more peaceful and more mindful places to be.”

Stefani Dias can be reached at 661-395-7488. Follow her on Twitter at @ realstefanidias.

BONES OF BRUNDAGE

MATT’S PICK

PHOTO COURTESY OF RODRICK PLEASANTS

Drummer Rodrick Pleasants, aka Rod P, and Nu Standard will perform at Jerry’s Pizza & Pub on Friday.

also features interviews with a number of key figures from the various eras sharing their war stories. Many locals, especially those who actively participated in the music and social scenes featured, will recognize plenty of now-defunct venues such as Bam Bams, Roller Towne, plus a quick glimpse of tattered Fox Theater (they hosted the occasional punk show), and more. A cool mix of rare video from a se-

Rod P & Nu Standard, 7 p.m. Friday, Jerry’s Pizza & Pub, 1817 Chester Ave. Free. 633-1000. Drummer Rodrick Pleasants and crew hold court upstairs at Jerry’s attracting everyone from passers-by to punk rockers to enjoy a mix of R&B classics and radio hits for a First Friday dance party too hard to resist. Backed by a killer band that includes vocalist Jehdiah Woodrow, bassist Nick Bonner and guitarist Marcus Jenkins, a funky good time is guaranteed. Don’t forget to check out the new full bar for bonus points. Contributing columnist Matt Munoz brings you the latest news on Bakersfield’s music scene every other Thursday.

FRIDAY

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Kelly Ardis can be reached at 661-395-7660. Follow her on Twitter at @TBCKellyArdis.

wine will also be available (all $5 each) as well as soft drinks ($2), which can be enjoyed post-show with the performers. Saldana said all are welcome: “People are also encouraged to come to the post-show happy hour even if they didn’t have tickets for the show that night!”

For more information, visit thehatedrugs.com. After making its online debut in December, independent Bakersfield music documentary “Bones of Brundage” can now be purchased and or rented for viewing by visiting reelhouse.org/ thumbscrewsmedia. In just under two hours, veteran Bakersfield music promoter Nate Berg takes viewers on a trip through the dirty, sweaty mosh pits of Bakersfield’s underground beginning in the mid-1980s as bands like Burning Image, Primer Grey and Big Jed & The Flatbeds helped establish the punk rock music and culture and brave young show promoters shook up the conservative streets of Bakersfield during the Reagan era. Jumping back and forth between the ‘80s to the early 2000s, “Bones of Brundage”

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lection of old Jerry’s Pizza shows and grainy gig photos also get sentimental high points. Lots of ground to cover and certainly not enough room to include it all at 120 minutes, but still a fun skank down memory lane to be shared with old homies and tall cans of cheap brew. According to Berg, “Bones of Brundage” is currently being re-cut for theatrical release as it will be hitting the festival circuit this year. For more information and to share your recollections, visit facebook.com/bonesbrundage.

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watercolor). An artist reception will be held at 6 p.m. at Dagny’s, 1600 20th St. The coffee shop will also host an open mic starting at 6 p.m. Sign-ups for those who want to perform their spoken word, poetry or original music are at 5:50 p.m. Musician Ariel Dyer will be one of the performers. Then sit a spell at Cafe Smitten and enjoy some tunes from The Huckleberries. With its roots going back to the 1970s and gigs at Cal State Bakersfield, the band now consists of drummer Mike Clark, guitarist Matt Sarad, Dr. David Moore on pedal steel guitar and Dr. Bob Smith (not the councilman) on bass. Previously known as Dwarf Rat and other names, The Huckleberries has played the Westchester 4th of July Parade, Guthrie’s Alley Cat, Dagny’s, the Kern County Nut Festival, First Friday

‘CRAZY’

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outdone herself with 14 huge dance numbers (each number is over fourplus minutes). We both made sure that tap dancing was the main form of dance to be highlighted, but with a twist. We took the cast and pushed them, rehearsing over the Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s holidays and their hard work has definitely paid off.” With a cast that also includes Kelsea Johnson, Brian Purcell, Jared Cantrell,

COURTESY OF DR. BOB SMITH

The Huckleberries will perform Friday at Cafe Smitten. From left, Dr. David Moore, Mike Clark, Dr. Bob Smith and Matt Sarad.

and even a stealth gig at the Bakersfield Marathon. Smith loosely characterizes the band’s music as “Dead country,” aka “lots of Grateful Dead influence with inimitable country flavor.”

The show is from 7 to 9 p.m., Cafe Smitten, 909 18th St.

Paula Einstein, Kevin McDonald, Randy Jelmini and Jolie Roberson, Bowles-Votaw said she was happy to have performers known for performing at other theaters in town to come together for “Crazy.” “It’s wonderful to see every ‘home’ theater from Bakersfield represented on that stage with this company,” she said. “I would love to see the theaters in Bakersfield work more closely together and this cast is definitely a positive step in that direction.” Featuring numbers that will make you want to dance and memorable music, the show is a good one to beat

the winter blues, Bowles-Votaw said. “‘Crazy For You’ is a show full of happiness, laughter and just plain fun. In the world we live in today, I definitely feel we can never have enough of those particular qualities. “My hope is the audience leaves with a full heart and can exude and share happiness with people around them. Gershwin definitely has a way of making you feel light on your feet with a full heart.”

Stefani Dias can be reached at 661395-7488. Follow her on Twitter at @ realstefanidias.

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, February 14, 2019

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Music future is female thanks to Itze Garcia I n an age where young artists are charmed by the allure of Insta fame and reality TV, Bakersfield singer Itze Garcia prefers a time-proven slow burn shot at the big time. Still digging into her studies as a senior at East Bakersfield High, the 18-year-old, curly maned diva has been making joyful noise all over Kern County with a powerhouse voice beyond her years. If you haven’t caught one of Garcia’s viral videos where she can be heard belting out renditions of hits by Lady Gaga, Beyonce, Ariana Grande and Etta James, take a listen and you’ll know what we mean. “Music runs deep in my family,” said Garcia of her upbringing surrounded by rhythms that also helped keep family life in harmony. “My uncles, grandparents, parents and cousins had a big impact in my passion for music.” Singing along with to tunes from her favorite singers around the house, Garcia says she knew something was brewing inside early in life. Garcia credits mom Elisa with instilling the harmonies of the spirit from the start: Her mother was in St. Joseph’s Church choir while expecting Itze. Raising Itze and her older brother as a single mother provided its own set of challenges, but Elisa always made love and support a priority at home. “She has been my No. 1 supporter even back when I was too shy to sing in front of people,” Garcia said. “I looked up to my mother’s beautiful voice.” Influenced by the classic soul singers of the 1960s, Garcia says repeat viewings of the musical comedy “Hairspray” that also featured vintage sounds of the period helped spark her interest towards rhythm and blues and jazz. Not that she

PHOTO BY EDEN B. JONES

NorCal alt folk rock singer-songwriter Katie Cash will perform Saturday at Sandrini’s.

PHOTO BY EDUARDO CRUZ GARCIA

A senior at East Bakersfield High, Bakersfield singer Itze Garcia has her eye on a career in music.

wasn’t interested in more a message and makes my contemporary artists, she souls feel something, I’m preferred to let the spirit drawn to it.” guide her. At 18, Garcia already has “I grew up listening to a resume of milestones ineverything from soul mucluding winning Bakersfield sic, pop, R&B, mariachi talent competition “The and Broadway, and also Choice” in 2017, earning a took some insinging scholarspiration from ship to practice singers like and perform at Christina AguAll State Choir ilera and Ella in San Jose Fitzgerald.” last DecemAnd it shows. ber, a string Garcia’s powerof featured ful solo perforappearances mance of Andra at the Padre Day’s “Rise Up” MATT MUNOZ Hotel, live radio FOR THE CALIFORNIAN was a highlight performance of the 2019 Kern on 103.9 The County Women’s March. Beat, and starring roles in “I’m drawn to all kinds a number of high school of music,” she said. “I have musical productions ina wide variety of interests. cluding the upcoming “The As long as the music has Addams Family” musical

in March. Garcia will play Alice Beineke, a housewife with secrets. “I’ve always loved acting and singing. Performing arts is where my passion lies. My visual performing arts teachers have always seen my potential and encouraged me to be a part of every show.” Garcia also flexed her skills at the Cal State Bakersfield Solo Fest where students are invited to perform classical works in front of a professional adjudicator. Qualifying students were invited back for a repeat showcase. Garcia got the call to perform. In a video posted to Facebook, Garcia’s performance is commanding and operatic, very different from the soulful sounds many have

become used to hearing. “What excites me most about performing is just being able to make people feel something. When someone comes up to me and says that my singing gave them chills, it’s the best compliment ever. I also love that I get to surprise people with my voice. Lots of people are amazed on how such a big voice comes out of a little body.” After high school, Garcia plans to continue pursuing musical studies to improve and expand her vocal abilities while making time for auditions. That or taking over the world when time permits. “I’m going to be a successful recording artist someday. I plan on touring the globe, and inspiring others. I am going to prove and show everyone that a Hispanic girl from the eastside of Bakersfield can make it big.” Keep an eye on this one.

MATT’S PICK Katie Cash, 9 p.m. Saturday, Sandrini’s Public House, 1918 Eye St., $5. 322-8900. When she’s not shredding and wailing with her band Year of Fist, Oakland guitarist/singer-songwriter Katie Cash can be found touching rowdy souls with a blend of California rock and roots with passionate lyrics to match. While her latest solo release, “Gift Horse,” is a departure from her heavier sound, there’s still plenty of edge woven in to please old fans while draw in curious new listeners. This type of artist is best experienced live and up close. Also performing is Ariel Dyer and Western Medicine. Highly recommended. Contributing columnist Matt Munoz brings you the latest news on Bakersfield’s music scene every other Thursday.

All the local happenings in one place. Finally. Bakersfield’s most comprehensive event listing site Who

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Thursday, February 28, 2019 The Bakersfield Californian

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Rocking the ’Tube, local artists bring videos to wider audience

t’s hard to believe that MTV had once claimed “Video Killed the Radio Star,” before reality TV came along to have their revenge on MTV with shows like “Jersey Shore,” “Teen Mom” and “Catfish.” With dreams of being a music video star on cable being dashed, another option arose: YouTube. Through the popular video-sharing website, independent artists have a direct route to get their music shorts out to fans. Bakersfield rock quintet Art and The Resistance is on board, recently debuting its third music video, a cover of Chris Isaak’s 1989 hit “Wicked Game.” Taken from the band’s album “From The Shadows,” the video is the group’s third short. Keyboardist John Calanchini said producing an accompanying music video has helped the group expand its fanbase. “Our music videos have been one of our biggest sources of new fans and outreach. Our first video ‘No Coming Back’ got us attention from musicians, DJs and listeners in places like the UK, Australia and Argentina.” Lead vocalist Art Machuca said the group works on ideas before production begins. For “Wicked Game,” the group was filmed performing inside the main recording chamber inside Triple Seven Recording in Bakersfield. Best known for its inclusion on the soundtrack to David Lynch’s “Wild at Heart” a year after its original release by Isaak, “Wicked Game” has been covered by everyone from REM and SoCal indie band Giant Drag to Canadian alt rockers Three Days Grace. Even Chilean rock heroes La Ley translated the song to Spanish as “Sin Ti.” “The concept behind this video was to capture the darker undertones of the original recording that Chris Isaak created,” said Calanchini, who surprisingly had never heard the song before until the group covered it.

COURTESY OF RUDY PARRIS

Visalia-based singerguitarist Rudy Parris is the new frontman for the Buckaroos at Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace, playing the first weekend of every month starting this Friday. COURTESY OF DSTRUCTIVE FILMZ

truly shines. A tireless performer known mostly from his appearance on “The Chemaly knew just how to Voice,” the Visalia native is bring his vision to life. ready to shed that role and “My idea came from the be the consummate frontold record ‘Lady Sings the man he was Blues,’ but from born to be with a modern perhis residency spective. What debut with better way of the world-fareflecting on mous Buckthe world than aroos. Highly on a commute? recommended. The song conHate Drugs, cept itself was 3 p.m. Saturday, something that Jerry’s Pizza, MATT MUNOZ had to be on a 1817 ChesFOR THE CALIFORNIAN trolley, and then ter Ave. $20. Michael took it 633-1000. to another level.” Before heading back on Currently on a promothe road and the SXSW tional tour, Rowe plans to music festival in Austin, release an upcoming fullHate Drugs is checking in length release this year tito celebrate the release of tled “#TruthAli” along with its latest album, “Tsunami more music and videos Soul I.” posted at his website truthThe afternoon matinee gotbars.com. show (3-6 p.m.) will be fol“We live in such a visual lowed by an after-party at world now with social The Idea Hive downtown, media that it’s a necessary giving fans a chance to chill thing,” he said. with the band and ask them MATT’S PICKS about their favorite tour Rudy Parris & The Bucksnack foods. aroos, 7 p.m. Friday, Buck Also performing at Jerry’s Owens’ Crystal Palace, 2800 is Wee Beasties. More inforBuck Owens Blvd. 328-7560. mation available at thehatBuckowens.com. edrugs.com. Singer-songwriter Rudy Parris can entertain in a Contributing columnist range of musical genres but Matt Munoz brings you the it’s his tribute to his heroes latest news on Bakersfield’s Buck Owens and Merle music scene every other Haggard where Parris’ soul Thursday.

A scene from the “Wicked Game” music video by Bakersfield band Art and The Resistance.

COURTESY OF JOSH ROWE

Bakersfield rapper Truth Ali, aka Josh Rowe, in a scene from his music video “Ali Spit The Blues,” directed by Michael Chemaly.

“In a way that was liberating,” he said. “I didn’t have to struggle to come up with something unique yet similar enough since I didn’t actually know what I was supposed to play.” Shot and directed by Dstructive Filmz, the “Wicked Game” video is available at the group’s official YouTube page and facebook.com/artandtheresistance. You can also download their cover of “Wicked Game” at all digital

outlets.

TRUTH ALI Another local artist using the power of video to enhance his virtual reach is rapper Josh Rowe, who performs under the name Truth Ali. For his track “Ali Spit The Blues,” a title spin on Billie Holiday’s “Lady Sings The Blues” jazz standard, Rowe took a similar intimate production approach filming inside the confines of a moving trolley

in downtown San Diego at sunrise. “We chose sunrise because A) there wouldn’t be a ton of people on the trolley, and B) I love that magic hour lighting,” said Rowe. “A lot of people thought it was either San Fran or somewhere on the East Coast.” Reminiscent of classic ‘90s hip-hop videos where urban landscapes complement lyrical themes, Rowe says director Michael

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, March 14, 2019

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Memphis delivers blues, BBQ and blast from past A

city historically known for its music and spicy food as it is for being the birthplace of the American Civil Rights Movement, Memphis delivers a dose of good ol’ Southern hospitality. Unless it involves Los Angeles or San Francisco, this homebody rarely travels long distances. My brother, Art, aimed to get me out of Bakersfield and Memphis, Tenn., second only to Nashville, is the perfect destination for a lover of music history. We headed off with family buds Chris and Tommy ready to party. Within an hour of our arrival, we hit historic Beale Street, three blocks of neon-lit shops, restaurants and dive bars. First stop, B.B. King’s Blues Club to check out the house band, aptly named the B.B. King Blues Club All-Stars. Right off the back from the first note, I knew we’d arrived. In between branded clubs, like those owned by former pro wrestler Jerry Lawler and “The Killer” Jerry Lee Lewis, are watering holes offering musical tributes to native sons and daughters — Al Green, Carla Thomas, Otis Redding, Bobbly “Blue” Bland and Ann Peebles — all performed with the soul that made the originals famous. My recommendation: Stick to old favorites that have been around since as long as Beale Street, and skip the newer-looking chain clubs. This musician loved the Stax Museum of American Soul Music, built where the Stax Records once stood, which transports you to the funky soulful 1960s and ‘70s when best-selling house artists Isaac Hayes (“Shaft”), Booker T. & The M.G.’s (“Green Onions”), The Bar Kays (“Soul Finger”), Johnny Taylor (“Who’s Making Love”), Sam & Dave (“Soul Man”) and Rufus Thomas (“Do The Funky Chicken”) recorded the American house party soundtrack. There’s even a “Soul Train” dance area for you to “Express Yourself.” We built up an appetite sightseeing and hit up some barbecue rib and

A tour of legendary Sun Studio is mandatory. Through these doors passed countless architects of rock ‘n’ roll, country and soul. The studio still operates today.

a lot of ground, moving from slavery in the U.S. to the Montgomery bus PHOTOS BY MATT MUNOZ boycott with Rosa Parks, Visitors to the National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis, Tenn., can walk in the steps student sit-ins, Freedom of those who struggled for equality. Riders, the black power ever had. movement, the assassinaIn contrast to the soulful tion of Martin Luther King funky history of Stax ReJr., the arrest of his killer, cords, a visit to Graceland James Earl Ray, and hours offered an interesting look of reading materials docuin the glitzy, but menting King’s isolated life of death and the Elvis Presley. aftermath that The tour starts followed. across the street It was hard where Elvis’ holding back jets are parked, the tears takbefore visitors ing in all the hop aboard an history. From ongoing stream standing near MATT MUNOZ of tour shuttles the place King FOR THE CALIFORNIAN to the King’s took his last home. Built breaths to on 138 acres, the massive reading and hearing stories estate features the manfrom the front lines of the sion with extended living civil rights movement, this quarters, offices frozen in was a moving experience. I time and groovy shaggy rug was also touched to see the décor in various rooms, not work of Dolores Huerta and to mention futuristic-lookthe United Farm Workers ing entertainment consoles Union prominently on dis(Elvis was a TV fanatic). play as part of the extended The self-guided tour ends exhibition. With such an with a visit to the gravesite attention to detail, there is of Elvis’ beloved parents, no rating high enough for grandmother and the King this museum; just make himself. sure to give yourself time to No trip to Memphis, Tenn., would be complete without Our final day in Memphis take it all in. a stop at Graceland to pay respects to Elvis Presley and started early at the National With few hours left, we family who are buried on the property. Civil Rights Museum at the visited the “birthplace of chicken joints, impressed base, and Gus’s World FaLorraine Motel. Although rock ‘n’ roll,” aka the legby the generous portions. mous Fried Chicken (extra gentrification looms in endary Sun Studio where The Dirty Crow Inn, which spicy) were great but it was Memphis’ historic neighHowlin’ Wolf, Ike Turner, almost put us in a food the family-owned Cozy borhoods, the drive to the Jerry Lee Lewis, Johnny coma with hot-hot wings Corner Restaurant Inc. Bar- Lorraine Motel parking lot Cash, Elvis Presley, Carl and a killer bloody mary B-Q that served up the ribs will have you feeling like it’s Perkins and Roy Orbison made with the house barwe were looking for and the 1968. helped introduce America becue sauce in the mix tastiest peach cobbler I’ve The museum tour covers to a new sound. We stepped

The Stax Museum of American Soul Music is filled with exhibits chronicling the label’s history, like this exhibit for keyboard icon Booker T. Jones, who still performs today.

from chamber to chamber for colorful stories, artifacts, a visit to the recording chamber where Elvis caught the ear of producer Sam Phillips, where U2 laid down tracks during the “Rattle and Hum” sessions to the present day. Fun fact: Sun Studio still runs as a functioning recording studio at night, so if you’re looking to get some Sun juju in your band’s music, follow the Sun. Exhausted by day 4, it was time to head home. A quick drive across the mighty, muddy Mississippi River so Chris could touch ground in neighboring Little Rock, Ark., we headed back to prep for the return flight. Memphis, you rock.

Thursday, March 28, 2019 The Bakersfield Californian

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Music the heartbeat of ‘Oildale’

akersfield will get a taste of Hollywood on Saturday for the red carpet world premiere of “Oildale” at the Fox Theater. Filmed on location in Bakersfield last year, the movie focuses on a group of homeless veterans searching for a place to belong. Upon arrival into Kern County and the community of Oildale, they cross paths with teen siblings Pete (played by Caleb Brown) and Carlie (Jessica Castello) struggling to make ends meet. In exchange for their hospitality, and room and board rentals, the men band together to help Carlie, an aspiring country singer, become “Bakersfield’s next singing star” at an amateur night staged at the Fox Theater. With country music being one of the featured elements in the film’s storyline, a number of local and out-of-town music professionals were cast in the film, including Bakersfield keyboardist and film co-producer Rick Davis, bassist Steve Flores (Thee Majestics) and Rhode Island-based singer-songwriter Grant Maloy Smith. Cast as guitarist Brady Cooper, Smith also had his song “I Come From America” featured in one of the film’s scenes. “The filmmakers came to one of my concerts in Los Angeles and heard me perform,” said Smith during a recent interview. “One of my songs really struck them, and they approached me after the show about putting it in their film. A few months later I was on set, performing the song at the Fox Theater. It was just luck, in a way.” Taken from Smith’s critically acclaimed release “Dust Bowl – American Stories,” the song is perfectly suited to the film’s overt patriotic Americana themes. “They are not your typical Hollywood types at all — they wanted to make a heartfelt film from day one: a film that struck deep at the American heart and values, and one which honored the sacrifices that our military men and women make on our behalf. It’s about the intersection of young and old, and what it means to be an American.”

COURTESY OF OILDALE FILM LLC

Singer/songwriter Grant Maloy Smith, left, plays musician Brady Cooper in “Oildale,” which premieres Saturday at the Fox Theater. Smith’s song “I Come From America,” from his Billboard-charting album “Dust Bowl — American Stories,” was selected for a scene in the movie.

Smith said he was honored to and women do the hard thing so be part of the production. that the rest of us don’t have to. “When the band that Rick When they come back, we owe Davis assembled for the film them our best to help them to replayed my song and nailed every start their lives.” single lick from my For Saturday’s red song. I was stunned carpet premiere, and amazed,” Smith members of the film’s recalled of his days cast will be present during filming. “What along with producers a great few days that David Mueller and was. Also, getting to Lynn Salt, musicians, see the studio where extras and Smith, Buck Owens recorded who will be doing the so many classic hits. rounds before the big Performing my album MATT MUNOZ event where he looks for the students at the FOR THE CALIFORNIAN forward to celebrating high school that Merle with locals. went to. Music is a warm blanket “Bakersfield has a proud histhat welcomes us all.” tory, and you should cherish it Smith, whose father served as a and make sure that your next pilot in the Vietnam era, said the generations know what happened film’s message is more important here.” than ever. Another of his original Tickets for Saturday’s premiere songs, “Man of Steel,” was chosen are $10 or $50 with cast meet and as the theme of the National Vetgreet. Doors open at 6 p.m., with red erans Foundation. carpet arrivals followed by the “My family is filled with vets: meet and greet. Screening starts my dad, both uncles, both grandat 7 p.m. All event proceeds will dads, and all the way back to the benefit the Wounded Heroes Revolutionary War. Those men

Fund and the Fox Theater Foundation. For more information, visit thebakersfieldfox.com or call 324-1369. Learn more about the film at oildalethemovie.com. For more music and other information on Grant Maloy Smith, visit his website at grant-maloy-smith.com.

MATT’S PICK Ginger Cowgirl, 7 p.m. Friday, Temblor Brewing Co., 3200 Buck Owens Blvd. $5. California-born, Nashville-livin’ mutli-talented Stacy Antonel, aka Ginger Cowgirl, has made quite a name for herself with a vocal versatility that allows her to sing rock, jazz, soul, pop and country. She got her start in the music industry singing jingles while living in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and back at home she snagged the $10,000 grand prize on Fox’s televised singing competition “3 Minutes to Stardom” in 2013. The Berkeley grad can sing with the best of them with one of the most unique voices I’ve heard in some time. Also performing

PHOTO BY RUSTIN GUDIM

Nashville singer Ginger Cowgirl will perform Friday at Temblor Brewing Co.

Friday night is Vince Galindo and Country Deluxe, playing all the “real country” classics to please the most ardent purists. Check out music by Ginger Cowgirl at gingercowgirl.com. Contributing columnist Matt Munoz brings you the latest news on Bakersfield’s music scene every other Thursday.

All the local happenings in one place. Finally. Bakersfield’s most comprehensive event listing site Who

What

Where

When

Tickets

www.bakersfield.com/events

Thursday, April 11, 2019 The Bakersfield Californian

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Spin us right round for Record Store Day

his year’s Record Store Day in Bakersfield is looking to be one of the best yet with both Going Underground Records and World Records hosting a full day of festivities. Founded in 2008 to celebrate independent record store spirit and culture, Record Store Day (RSD) today has become the calendar date for music collectors around the globe. From special limited-edition vinyl pressings and other official Record Store Day-branded merchandise, the highly anticipated list of releases is teased leading up to the big day. Over the years everyone from Nirvana/Foo Fighters’ Dave Grohl to Public Enemy’s Chuck D and more have been named official ambassadors for the day. This year’s official ambassador is veteran rock band Pearl Jam. At World Records, doors will open Saturday at 8 a.m. for attendees to peruse the bins. According to store owner Pat Evans, who has been in business since 1982, the longstanding store will be offering a number of official RSD selections along with a full stock of new and used music for purchase. Just a reminder for those coming in with their highlighted RSD music wish list: There are no guarantees in local offerings. “No one item. But lots of requests,” said Evans, who noted that store owners are shipped boxes with a mixed bag of various exclusives, leaving collectors (myself included) frowning. To brighten the day, World Records minikitchen will offer light breakfast fare, tea and coffee. As lunch nears, tap and bottled beer, wine and soft drinks will be sold along with salads and sandwiches

play Bakersfield since 2017, but no one would book us. I really have to say thank you to Pat at World Records,” McNeil said. We concur. World Records, 2815 F St., will host its Record Store Day festivities from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, call 831-3100 or visit shopworldrecords.com. You can also keep up with Brian Jones Was Murdered at Facebook and iTunes.

COURTESY OF THE SOUL CHANCE

PHOTO BY RACHEL CURET

Brian Jones Was Murdered — from left: Dan Delcastillo, Joe Curet, David Pearson and Charles McNeil — will be among the bands helping World Records celebrate Record Store Day.

to be enjoyed once the free was every bit as catchy and live music begins in the identifiable. They rocked, World Records theater (forrolled and made audiences merly Dream Theater). dance and sweat to the wee Slated to perform are hours inside every popular local artists Bernardo Toleall-ages venue and beerdo-Reyes, The soaked dive bar DeWalt Corpoof the time. ration, David “The inspiTetz and ‘90s ration was the Bako Brit gaidea of what rage pop outfit the Beatles Brian Jones Was sounded like Murdered, who when they will perform its were playing second of two the clubs in MATT MUNOZ local shows in Hamburg and FOR THE CALIFORNIAN 20 years beginLiverpool,” said ning at noon. Charles McNeil, (The band will also open the group’s founder who the sold-out Los Lobos now lives in Long Beach. concert at World Records “Imagine the Sex Pistols on Friday.) playing The Beatles, is how Brian Jones Was MurI used to put it. I made dered is probably most everyone watch the movremembered for its mod ies ‘The Commitments,’ Beatle-esque look and style ‘A Hard Day’s Night’ and — complete with Royal ‘The Rutles,’ and later Air Force roundel — that ‘Backbeat.’” helped it stand apart from During the band’s early most of the local music to mid-’90 run, it released a scene, but the band’s music vinyl 7-inch titled “Beat Me

Like a Star,” full-length CD “Death of a Pop Star” along with compilation singles. The band even recorded a commercial for Golden Empire Transit (GET). Those recordings helped the band build a fan base locally as well out of town where mod culture and garage rock music enjoys a sizable listenership. “I loved going out to the Wall Street alley on the weekends, back before they took out the curbs,” recalled McNeil of downtown in the ‘90s. “The old bar at the Padre. We rehearsed upstairs in the building on the corner of 18th and Eye. After we played Chaos Coffeehouse, or Bottoms Up (now Riley’s), or Jerry’s Pizza we’d move our gear back up to our studio, then head back down to the alley for drinks. It was a great time for music in Bakersfield; there were a lot of really good bands.” Ah, memories. I was

AJ Brewer and Nico Collins comprise the Bakersfield traditional reggae soul act The Soul Chance. Their album is being featured at Underground Records.

present for the release show of the “Beat Me Like a Star” single and still have my original vinyl copy. Over the past two decades and following the group’s earlier disbandment, McNeil has brought the group together with rotating lineups for a few sporadic shows as well as a special remastered, repackaged 20th anniversary “Death of a Pop Star” CD release in 2017. “As you’ve surmised, this isn’t a one-off reunion; we’ve been playing now for a couple of years as well as a number of gigs around greater L.A. and San Bernardino counties.” Also joining McNeil in the new BJWM lineup will be bassist David Pearson, Dan Delcastillo on lead guitar and Joe Curet on drums; all of whom will be traveling to Bakersfield for the show. Bust out your black skinny tie, parka or mod skirt and hop on your scooter and catch up with the mates. Don’t forget to buy some band merch. “We’ve been trying to

GOING UNDERGROUND Heading into the heart of downtown on Saturday, Going Underground Records will feature a selection of top local DJs spinning direct from the vinyl of yesterday to today, as well as featuring the largest grouping of Record Store Day selections available between Los Angeles and Fresno. For store owner Ronald Ramirez, RSD preparation starts months in advance to ready for the long line of shoppers who arrive early. Once the gates open and doors are unlocked at 9 a.m., it’s showtime. “Our line was very long last year, so please arrive early,” Ramirez said. “As a record store, we try to be strong in every genre, so anyone can come in and hopefully find a record.” If not an RSD release, you will definitely find something cool at Going Underground, whose bins are always well stocked and organized. From punk to jazz and beyond, it’s bound to be found. Making this year’s RSD sweeter, Going Underground is also celebrating the first anniversary of its second location on Melrose Avenue in Los Angeles. “All I can say is that there is not enough time in the day to get everything done, always more collections to buy and records to price,” Please see LOWDOWN | 20

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The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, April 11, 2019

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Ramirez said. “I’m very proud of both of our stores and wouldn’t have it any other way. The first year in L.A. has been a great experience and the store is still growing and doing great. Might be another one soon, only time can tell.” In addition to all the fun of searching with your best music mates, local DJs Wreck (Hot 94.1 FM) and Sparkle will keep you in step. Plenty of deals in every department. According to Ramirez, some of this year’s hot RSD vinyl collector items include: “E. 1999 Eternal” from Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, the Ace Frehley (Kiss) picture disc, Frank Black (The Pixies) solo releases, Green Day “Woodstock ‘94” and Colemine Records’ “Soul Slabs Vol. 2” box set that features local vintage reggae soul group The Soul Chance and its sweet recording of the Delroy Wilson classic “Give Love a Try.” The three-LP set is limited to only 2,500 copies worldwide. “They are in fact the first Bakersfield group to have an RSD release and we will have plenty in stock,” Ramirez said. “I’m sure AJ (of The Soul Chance who also works at the store) would love to sign copies so bring a pen.”

Going Underground Records, 1312 19th St., will be open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday. For more information, call 633-0111 or visit goingundergroundrecords.com. TIKI-KO As an added bonus, downtown cocktail bar Tiki-Ko, 1919 K St. will once again offer a specially priced cocktail for anyone who brings in a Record Store Day purchase receipt from Going Undergrounds during regular business hours on Saturday. The Purple Rain is $6 with a receipt, $10 on its own. Happy record hunting!

‘UP IN SMOKE’ The Fox Theater will present the 1978 Cheech and Chong comedy classic “Up In Smoke” on Monday as part of its monthly Cults & Classics series. Known as one of the best stoner films of all time, it certainly was the template for the comedy subgenre. If you haven’t seen it before, the plot goes a little like this: Unemployed hippie musician leaves home and crosses paths with his kindred spirit while hitchhiking. Together they go on a wild marijuana-induced adventure that takes them all over Los Angeles, Tijuana, and eventually to The Roxy in Hollywood for a punk rock musical climax like no other with their band Alice Bowie.

There are countless memorable comic moments, but it’s the film’s opening scenes featuring late veteran actors Strother Martin and Edie Adams as Arnold and Tempest Stoner, parents to Tommy Chong’s character in the film, that kick off the high jinks. Fans may not know about the local connection that Adams purchased a 200-acre almond farm in Shafter called Ediad Farms a year after the movie was released. During that time, the farm produced mostly almonds along with some oranges and jojoba. Adams’ son, Josh Mills, who spent a number of years on the farm, recalls his experiences. “In 1979, my mom sold our beach house in Malibu. She wanted a ‘money earner’ and literally bought the farm. We spent a ton of time in the 805 until about 1985 on weekends and summers until the bottom dropped out of the market and she went bankrupt.” Adams’ place in Hollywood history dates back to the golden age of television with legend Jack Parr and her first husband, comedian Ernie Kovacs. An artist of many talents, she was a regular on TV and Broadway, winning Tony and Emmy awards for her work. “I used to say to people my mom was an actress and they thought she was Donna Mills. But some highlights were learning

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The month will wrap up on April 26, with the eighth annual Power of the Purse, a fundraiser benefiting the Alliance. The event will take place at the Gardens at Monji, with special guest Elizabeth Smart telling her story of reclaiming her life following her abduction and how she works to empower other survivors. “She has really been able to take her own tragedy and take it to the national level to advocate on other people’s behalves,” Lyday said of Smart. The fundraiser, which is the Alliance’s biggest event, also includes the chance to shop for high-end purses, like Gucci, Prada, Michael Kors and Coach bags, as well as jewelry. Tickets are $150 and tend to sell out, so anyone hoping to go should buy them soon. Lyday said “absolutely everyone” who is interested in either event is welcome to attend. She is hopeful that coming out can help ease the shame and drop the stigma survivors might unfortunately feel. People should come to “normalize speaking about sexual assault and rape culture and open up the lines of communication,” Lyday said. “All this stuff we’re afraid to talk about because of the stigma — we want to erase that.”

Monday through Thursday, from 9 a.m. to noon and 2 to 4 p.m. Prices vary depending on the program. For more information on either the camp or the swimming, call American Kids at 5892100 or go to AKSC.com.

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Kelly Ardis can be reached at 661395-7660. Follow her on Twitter at @TBCKellyArdis.

how to play chess on the ‘The Love Boat,’ spending Christmas at Jack Lemmon’s house every year, getting to meet Carl Reiner and John Candy on the set of the film ‘Summer Rental’ on spring break in Florida and I was able to get autographs from anyone she met — Whoopi Goldberg, Robin Williams.” When it comes to “Up in Smoke,” Mills recalled knowing about his mother’s work with the comedy duo. “She loved working with Cheech and Chong. She wasn’t fond of director Lou Adler. It wasn’t that he was a bad person or anything. He had never directed a film before. He was a well-respected music executive, but if you look at the film there are no establishing shots. He didn’t know you needed to film the outside of the house to show you where you were inside the house. She didn’t care for that. She said that the best part about working on the movie was that after it came out, she always got her car first at valet parking, ‘Hey, (it’s) that lady from Cheech and Chong.’” Upon release, the $2 million budget movie quickly gained cult status, making $44 million at the box office and solidifying Adam’s place in stoner movie history. Mills has all of his mother’s work archives in safe storage, including items from “Up In Smoke,”

CAMELOT PARK

WILDFLOWERS GALORE Now is a good time to explore the county’s colorful wildflowers before the season ends. If parents want to take their children out for a day trip, they can head to Wind Wolves Preserve (16019 Maricopa Highway, about 30 miles south of Bakersfield) or the Kern River Canyon (about 20 miles east of Bakersfield down Highway 178). Both locations have various trails visitors can go on that will take them through fields of wildflowers. Wild Wolves Preserve is open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, while Kern River Canyon is open daily. For those who do not mind a longer drive,

and continues to manage Adams official website edieadams.com. Adams passed away in 2008 at the age of 81. “My mom saved everything, so I have her shooting script, which is almost entirely different. In fact, it has hand-written notes written in there with new dialogue they wrote on set. It wasn’t even called ‘Up in Smoke.’ We have the painting of my mom that is seen behind her when she’s in the mansion. That’s actually a painting she brought to the set. They used her painting the set decorators used to make it look like the Stoners lived in that house.” Another memory Mill’s recalls was one of the family’s famous neighbor, Buck Owens. “When I say neighbor, I mean he was the next farm over. If we had 200 acres, he had 10,000 acres or something insane like that. We used to ride ATCs (all-terrain cycles) and dirt bikes all over his property and he never complained. He was a nice guy. We met him a few times and he came to our house.” “Up In Smoke,” doors open at 6 p.m., movie at 7 p.m. Monday, Fox Theater, 2001 H St. $5. thebakersfieldfox.com. Contributing columnist Matt Munoz brings you the latest news on Bakersfield’s music scene every other Thursday.

start at 7 p.m. April 18 at Beach Park (3400 21st St.) and head along the Kern River Parkway Trail until it reaches Lengthwise at The Marketplace. Programs manager Asha Chandy said the ride is not a race, so parents should feel comfortable bringing their children during the half-hour, 5.5-mile journey. Bike Bakersfield will pass out bike lights and go over basic safety rules, so Chandy encourages riders to meet at 6:30 p.m. Participants should wear helmets, bring water and have reflectors on their bikes. Chandy said they should also wear clothing and footwear that will not get caught in chains.

Continued from PAGE 17

Camelot Park (1251 Oak St.) is getting in on the spring break fun with a weeklong discount and its returning Easter Bunny Trail. From Saturday until April 22, wristbands will be available for $16.99 online at camelotparkbakersfield.com. On Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., kids 11 years old and younger can follow along the Easter Bunny Trail, collecting candy from local businesses. (Don’t forget your basket!) The Easter Bunny, Prince Leo the Lion and the Icee Bear will all be there to celebrate the holiday too. DJ Escandalosa will be providing the tunes. Kids will also have the chance to win a giant Easter basket, for which they must be present to win.

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SPRINGTIME EGG HUNT CALIFORNIAN FILE

Addy Johnson, 4, dashes for eggs along with other children at the City of Bakersfield’s Springtime Egg Hunt in 2018 at Martin Luther King Jr. Park. The annual event returns April 18.

families can head to Carrizo Plain National Monument, which is about 60 miles west of Bakersfield. Goldfields, tidytips and phacelia are found on the valley floor, mountain ranges and around Soda Lake. The Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve, about 80 miles southeast of Bakersfield, is full of blooming poppies. With all locations, visitors are asked to follow a Leave No Trace policy, stay on marked paths, keep eyes open for rattlesnakes and wear comfortable clothing and shoes.

FULL MOON RIDE Families hoping to stay active and enjoy the outdoors can hop on their bikes and go for a ride with Bike Bakersfield. The free family-friendly, all-ages ride will

There is no better way to prepare for Easter than with an egg hunt, and the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center is anticipating another large turnout on April 20. Recreation supervisor Linda McVicker said children will be divided into five age groups, and the hunt begins at 10:30 a.m. She recommends families arrive at 10 a.m. to know what group their children will be in. Around 12,000 eggs will be scattered throughout the grounds, and McVicker is expecting 800 children to participate. Many children will walk away with larger prizes including a bicycle, swim passes and more. There will also be various photo opportunities available for families with the Easter bunny and face boards placed around the field. After the hunt, Stay Focused Ministries will provide free lunch, face painting, live music and more. Kelly Ardis can be reached at 661-395-7660. Follow her on Twitter: @TBCKellyArdis. Ema Sasic can be reached at 661-395-7392. Follow her on Twitter: @ema_sasic.

Thursday, April 25, 2019 The Bakersfield Californian

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True Brit meets Bakersfield as transplant wades into music scene

e’s got the accent and and then I just decided I’d had cool look, but a few secenough of the traveling. I honestly onds into conversation just couldn’t be away from her, also reveal singer-songwriter Luke she’s my best friend — now she’s Ryan Barnes has the musical permy wife.” sonality of a courtly troubadour. Barnes recalls his introduction A recent Bakersfield transplant to music as fairly normal for a from the famed northwestern Manchester upbringing. From city of Manchester, the local pubs to his England — known as Catholic school choir, much for its industrihe was a member of ous history as it is for the acclaimed Mangiving us the music chester Boys’ Choir of Morrissey, Oasis, working alongside the New Order and others prestigious Hallé Orwho developed the chestra, as well as per“Manchester Sound” forming with the BBC — Barnes hopes to Philharmonic and the join that pantheon of London Symphony MATT MUNOZ greats someday. Orchestra. FOR THE CALIFORNIAN But let’s not get “I remember my too hasty. Presently mum and dad taking settling into his new surroundme to the pub and vividly singing ings, the 31-year-old is set on first to whatever was on the jukebox,” finding a suitable musical place he recalled. “They just urged me within his new city as he absorbs to keep going and going.” the rich musical history of BakersTeaching himself piano, he field’s past. also learned a few chords before “I knew the legacy of Buck Owbeing gifted his first guitar by his ens and Merle Haggard, but you dad as a teen. From that moment, don’t realize how important it is Barnes was set on continuing his until you’re actually here,” said musical education with the supBarnes, who first visited Bakersport of his family. But after losing field two years ago to meet his his older brother, Darren, Barnes then-girlfriend, Savannah Gale, says he began to look at life’s bigduring a number of frequent road ger picture, including traveling trips to town with his brotheroutside the comforts of Manchesin-law. Barnes, who had been ter to see the world. And he has, recording in New York, eventually at one point even spending all his grew to love the easygoing Central traveling money on original Bob Valley style. Dylan acoustic albums while in “I love that Bakersfield is a huge San Francisco. melting pot of everything and “It was a huge shock to experieveryone. I normally walk into ence death at such a young age,” people and lamp posts because Barnes said. “From there I just I am always looking up at the realized that life was a very prearchitecture.” cious thing and you should not As luck and love would have it, waste a single second, moment or the two were married following opportunity so I started to travel, a long-distance courtship and it mainly to the U.S. and back. Now was “Ta rah” Manchester, “Hello” I’m here.” Bakersfield. Barnes’ musical introduction “The best way to probably put to Bakersfield began at last year’s it is that I just followed my heart. I Merle Haggard Boxcar Festival started dating Savannah and was talent contest where he made it to in Bakersfield almost every weekthe finals, just short of landing an end during recording at one point opening slot during the festival at

COURTESY OF LUKE RYAN BARNES

Britain by way of Bakersfield thanks to Luke Ryan Barnes. The Manchester, England, singer-songwriter now calls California home.

the Kern County Museum. “My brother-in-law Kenny drove me down there and somewhat shanghaied me into it. It was one of the best things that happened to me.” Despite not making it to the main stage, Barnes remained close to the local music scene, eventually scoring a second local gig opening for the Quebe Sisters at the Bakersfield Music Hall of Fame in March. “The response has been amazing; I honestly couldn’t ask for anything more,” he said. “Everyone in Bakersfield has been so welcoming, as soon as I’m off stage people have wanted to introduce themselves and talk to me. It’s a great feeling, especially as an outsider who isn’t from here.”

For a taste of Barnes’ sound, you can find a few studio recording video clips on YouTube along with some living room strumming. His sound: classic Manchester pop folk rock with a tip of the hat to some of his hometown influences that would make Oasis’s Noel Gallagher proud of his fellow Mancunian. “I’ve done a lot of recording but I’m a perfectionist and that’s my biggest flaw,” Barnes said. “I’m releasing some songs shortly; one by one as a full band. In the digital world that we are now in, it’s really difficult to capture the attention of the listener when you drop a full album. I’m just taking each day as it comes. It’s all DIY; a completely independent process with no funding.” In the meantime, you might

catch Barnes out and about getting acquainted with his new home taking in some live shows and sampling some local fare. He’ll also be heading back to where it all started at this year’s Haggard Music Boxcar Festival to enjoy with all the locals, so make sure to give him a good Bakersfield welcome. “I’m a happy-go-lucky kind of person,” he said. “I love the community. No thrills or gimmicks and that’s kind of like me, what you see is what you get.” Learn more about Luke Ryan Barnes at facebook.com/lukeryanbarnes, Instagram and Twitter. Contributing columnist Matt Munoz brings you the latest news on Bakersfield’s music scene every other Thursday.

All the local happenings in one place. Finally. Bakersfield’s most comprehensive event listing site Who

What

Where

When

Tickets

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Thursday, May 23, 2019 The Bakersfield Californian

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Raw slice of ‘Vida’ returns for season two

hen season two of “Vida” premieres on Starz today, actress Chelsea Rendon won’t be short of celebratory milestones. The SoCal Montebello native is part of the primarily female Latina cast on the critically acclaimed drama that’s breaking ground with characters and subject matter once considered “too taboo” for viewers. For Rendon, who plays street-smart Mari in the series, the time has never been better to shake up the neighborhood as more than just an industry anomaly, marking the beginning of something much more promising. “It’s a beautiful time in Hollywood to be brown,” said Rendon, who’s been planning her premiere party since production wrapped. “There’s going to be a lot of drama and craziness. I can’t wait to see it.” “Vida” tells the story of the Hernandez sisters, Emma and Lyn (played by Mishel Prada and Melissa Barrera), who, after years away detached from the life and culture of their East Los Angeles neighborhood, return home following the death of their mother, Vidalia. Their homecoming unearths hidden family PHOTOS BY KAT MARCINOWSKI truths, prompts bittersweet Melissa Barrera, left, and Mishel Prada play sisters Lyn and Emma Hernandez in “Vida” on Starz. The show’s second reunions with the ghosts season premieres today on Starz on Demand and on cable starting Sunday. of their past, and yields plenty of drama centralized that it worked really well,” ing.’ I think for me it’s very around their late mother’s Rendon said. “When the truthful.” bar, which the sisters have show premiered I had so Without any spoilers, inherited. Based on an many friends from middle original short story “Pour school who Vida” by Richmessaged me, ard Villegas Jr., ‘Oh my God. the story was That’s the Chelexpanded for sea I rememproduction on ber.’ I’ve always Starz for six epbeen loud, a bit isodes making of a tomboy, its debut last and I’ve always year. been a little out Rendon, there and say who’s been act- MATT MUNOZ what I want.” FOR THE CALIFORNIAN ing since age 7 Touching on in a number of family and relaTV and film roles including tionships that also include “A Better Life” and “Mcprominent LGBTQ themes, Mari (Chelsea Rendon) brings her protest to social media Farland, USA,” says that “Vida” has not shied away in “Vida” on Starz. show creator Tanya Saracho from depicting the charoffered her an opportunity acters’ sexuality to push to dive into a character with it at the dinner table with resenting the world as it storylines. Rendon knew whom she says she shares your mom and your dad, is today. Mari, growing up Latino audiences may have a number of personality but you talk about it with alone with her dad and her some issues, but also feels traits. A tough and indeyour friends. My dad is a brother and not having a it’s time to get real about pendent young woman, very traditional Mexican, woman to talk about it, so sex, chicos and chicas. Mari has learned to roll and is like, ‘Why is there she’s still a virgin at 21 and “I think it’s beautiful and with life’s punches. so much sex in this show?’ she’s never had a boyfriend. very important. We’re all “I definitely feel I added And I’m like, ‘That’s part Some people are like, sexual beings and yeah, my essence, but my esof the story, Dad.’ That’s ‘Ooooohh,’ and some peo3300 Buena Vista Rd, Bakersﬁeld, CA 93311 maybe you don’t talk about (661) 695-9655 sence is so similar to Mari why I love the show repple are like, ‘That’s amaz-

Rendon says fans will be in for another emotional ride aboard the beer-soaked bar stools of Vida to the ongoing gentrified neighborhood streets of the place they call home with familiar faces and new characters. “It’s something that everybody can really relate to and when you start dealing with the family dynamics, the love triangles, that’s just human experience. You don’t even have to be brown to relate.” Music is another big part of the “Vida” experience with a number of Latin alternative and traditional Latin genres weaved in adding to the emotional feel of the show. It’s another round of opportunities and firsts for independent artists such as Los Angeles singer-songwriter Maria Del Pilar, whose song “Se Me Haces Mas” was used in trailers for season one. For season two, the performer will have a new song featured on the show as well as make an appearance in an episode. “I love not only the opportunity for my music to be heard and having an appearance but to also be a musical narrator,” said the musician, who has performed in Bakersfield over the years at Sandrini’s, Fishlips and The Dome with her former band, Los Abandoned, as well as a solo act. The show’s soundtrack will Please see LOWDOWN | 18

7919 E Brundage Ln, Bakersﬁeld, CA 93307 (661) 432-7086

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, May 23, 2019

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TICKET ROUNDUP BUCK OWENS’ CRYSTAL PALACE 2800 Buck Owens Blvd. 3287560. Buckowens.com, prices do not include service fees. ■■ Today: Molly Tuttle, 7 p.m. $35. ■■ Friday and Saturday: Johnny

Owens and The Buck Fever Band; Night Life Band, 7 p.m. $5. ■■ May 29: Travis Byler, 7 p.m. Free. ■■ May 30: Bakerbilly Sound, 7 p.m. Free. FORD THEATER 1101 E. Lerdo Highway, Shafter, 630-4053, shafterfordtheatre. com ■■ June 8: Colton Dixon, 7 p.m.

$25-$35. ■■ Aug. 2-4: “Annie Jr.,” 7 p.m.

Aug. 2 and 3; 4 p.m. Aug. 4. $10, $5 for children 12 and under. PARK AT RIVER WALK, SPECTRUM AMPHITHEATRE 11200 Stockdale Highway, 888929-7849, AXS.com ■■ June 14: RBRM: Ronnie DeVoe,

Bobby Brown, Ricky Bell, and Michael Bivins, 8 p.m. $70-$156. FOX THEATER 2001 H St. 324-1369 and thebakersfieldfox.com. Price does not include service charges. ■■ Today: Steel Pulse, 8 p.m.

$25-$50. ■■ Monday: “Some Like It Hot,”

7 p.m. $5. ■■ June 7: Blue October: The King

Tour 2019, 8 p.m. $23-$40. ■■ June 27: Aziz Ansari: Road to Nowhere, 8 p.m. $35-$72. ■■ June 29: Legends of Funk, Diabetes Awareness Concert, 8 p.m. $40-$100. ■■ July 5: Brit Floyd, 8 p.m. $40-$185. ■■ July 9: Lyle Lovett and His Large Band, 8 p.m. $39-$89. ■■ July 10: “Friends! The Musical Parody,” 7:30 p.m. $29-$49. ■■ July 26: Ken Burns’ Country Music Roadshow, 6 p.m. $45-$60. ■■ Sept. 17: Kansas, Point of Know Return Anniversary Tour, 7:30 p.m. $45-$120. ■■ Oct. 6: “We Will Rock You: The Musical,” 7 p.m. $45-$180. ■■ Nov. 2: Three Dog Night, 8 p.m. $37-$72. ■■ Nov. 10: Great Russian Nutcracker, 3 p.m. $23-$175. ■■ Nov. 16: Felipe Esparza: The Bad Hambre Tour, 8 p.m. $37.50-$60.

$29.50-$950. ■■ June 2: An Evening with Jeff Dunham, 3 p.m. $48.50. ■■ June 13: Third Eye Blind, 7:30 p.m. $25-$79.50. ■■ Aug. 11: Jackson Browne, 7:30 p.m. $39-$129. ■■ Aug. 23: Toby Keith’s “That’s Country, Bro” Tour, featuring Ned Leboux, 8 p.m. $44-$820. ■■ Sept. 13: Ghost with Nothing More, 7:30 p.m. $26.50-$66.50. ■■ Oct. 1-2: Nick Jr. Live! “Move to the Music,” 6 p.m. $18-$55. TEMBLOR BREWING CO. 3200 Buck Owens Blvd. 4894855, temblorbrewing.com. Price does not include service charges. For audiences 18 and over unless noted. ■■ June 15: Word of Mouth, 7 p.m.

Free. ■■ June 27: T.J. Miller, 8 p.m. $35-$50. ■■ June 28: The Fillers, 7 p.m. Free. ■■ July 4: The Other Favorites and Reina Del Cid, 7 p.m. $20. ■■ Nov. 20: 2019 Night B4 Thanksgiving Jam, featuring Mento Buru, 6 p.m. Free. BAKERSFIELD MUSIC HALL OF FAME 2231 R St. 864-1701, bakersfieldmusichalloffame.com. ■■ Today: Terry McBride,

7:30 p.m. $25-$30. ■■ June 6: Erotic City, Prince tribute, 7 p.m. $35-$40. ■■ June 20: Aeromyth, Aerosmith tribute, 6 p.m. $30-$35. ■■ July 18: Abbey Road, Beatles tribute, 7 p.m. $30-$35. ■■ Aug. 1: Petty and The Heartshakers, Tom Petty tribute, 7 p.m. $30-$35. ■■ Sept. 5: Escape, Journey tribute, 7 p.m. $30-$35. ■■ Oct. 11: Smooth Sounds of Santana, Santana tribute, 7 p.m. $30-$35. ■■ Oct. 17: Strange Days, The Doors tribute, 7 p.m. $30-$35. ■■ Nov. 7: Twited Gypsy, Fleetwood Mac tribute, 7 p.m. $35-$40. ■■ Nov. 21: Queen Nation, Queen tribute, 7 p.m. $35-$40. ■■ Dec. 5: Don’t Look Back, Boston tribute, 7 p.m. $35-$40. WORLD RECORDS 2815 F St. 831-3100/325-1982, shopworldrecords.com ■■ June 15: Roy Rogers and The

RABOBANK ARENA THEATER AND CONVENTION CENTER 1001 Truxtun Ave. rabobankarena.com, axs.com or 1-888929-7849. Price does not include service charges.

Delta Rhythm Kings, 7 p.m. $30. ■■ June 22: Dave Alvin and Jimmie Dale Gilmore with The Guilty Ones, 7 p.m. $30. EDWARDS BAKERSFIELD STADIUM 14 9000 Ming Ave. 844-462-7342, FathomEvents.com. $12.50, unless noted.

■■ Tuesday: New Kids On The

■■ Today: “The Cold Blue,”

Block, Mixtape Tour, 7:30 p.m.

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7:30 p.m. $15.

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Breakfast Rotary Club, will return to the Park at River Walk this weekend, from Saturday to Monday. It opens at noon Saturday with the national anthem and color guard. Each day at 8 a.m. there will be a flag raising ceremony, with the flag lowered each night at 8 p.m. with taps. On Monday, there will also be a fair with booths, music and more as well as a special ceremony at 11:30 a.m. Everything is free to observe, and flags are available to sponsor at $50. 11298 Stockdale Highway, thousandflags.org. Greenlawn Funeral Homes: Both Greenlawn locations will be holding ceremonies on Monday, at different times with a similar program (each will have a different keynote speaker). At the River Boulevard location, the ceremony will start at 11 a.m. and the keynote speaker will be state Sen. Shannon Grove. At the Panama Lane location, the ceremony will start at 2 p.m. and the keynote speaker will be Congressman Kevin McCarthy. Both ceremonies will also include Honor Flight Kern County veteran Charlie Wilmot, the national anthem sung by Bella Stine, the Bakersfield High School Junior ROTC, music by Pastor Stephen Moffett and taps by Mike Rainey of the Bakersfield Symphony. Both will also offer refreshments afterward. 3700 River Blvd., 324-9701; 2739 Panama Lane,

CALIFORNIAN FILE

Eli Garcia runs through the Park at River Walk during 2017’s Thousand Flags display. The event, organized by the Breakfast Rotary, will return this Memorial Day weekend. The flags fly to honor those who gave their lives serving the country.

834-8820. Historic Union Cemetery: This is Kern County’s oldest traditional Memorial Day ceremony, going back around 70 years, Sandall said. It starts at 9 a.m. Monday and will include patriotic music, a biodegradable balloon release with personal remembrance card, a tribute to the 75th anniversary of D-Day and guest speaker Josh Dhanen. Congressman Kevin McCarthy, Mayor Karen Goh and Assemblyman Vince Fong are expected to attend, Sandall said. A barbecue will follow. 730 E. Potomac Ave., 324-9648. Hillcrest Memorial Park and

Mortuary: Following the event at Union Cemetery, Hillcrest will hold its own at 11:30 a.m. Monday. 9101 Kern Canyon Road, 487-0350. Camp Hamilton Veteran Memorial Park: The ceremony will take place at 2 p.m. Monday, with a free barbecue after. All are welcome to attend. 34999 Lerdo Highway, 487-0350. Elks Lodge: Celebrate Memorial Day with hamburgers and hot dogs Monday at 6 p.m. Cost is $5. 1616 30th St. 323-7535.

Kelly Ardis can be reached at 661395-7660. Follow her on Twitter at @TBCKellyArdis.

LOWDOWN Continued from PAGE 17

be available on Friday for digital download as well as vinyl LP pressing. “I’m so happy this show exists,” she said. “I’ve been writing music for a longtime with bi-cultural Spanglish lyrics in this genre of Latin alternative music and there’s finally a television show that is perfect for the music I make, especially also being a woman and having this show be very Latina-centric. It feels really good for these things to catch up to what many of us have already been doing underground or on a more obscure level.” Season two of “Vida” premieres today on the Starz app and Starz on Demand. Episodes begin airing on cable starting Sunday. For more information, visit starz. com/series/vida. For more Maria Del Pilar, visit maria-del-pilar.com.

MATT’S PICK Steel Pulse, 8 tonight, Fox Theater, 2001 H St., $25-$50. 324-1369. Apart from the undisputed king of reggae, Bob Marley, U.K. roots rock outfit Steel Pulse is cited as the gateway to Jamaica’s biggest musical export. Mixing

PHOTO COURTESY OF STEEL PULSE

U.K. reggae icons Steel Pulse will perform tonight at the Fox Theater.

politics and social conscious in the tradition of Marley, but with a helping of the band’s home turf in the Handsworth area of Birmingham, England, Steel Pulse’s albums “True Democracy,” “Earth Crisis” and “Rastafari Centennial — Live in Paris” are essentials of

the genre. Also performing is Bakersfield reggae rock outfit Steady Vibe. Contributing columnist Matt Munoz brings you the latest news on Bakersfield’s music scene every other Thursday.

Thursday, June 6, 2019 The Bakersfield Californian

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Bassist adds bump to upcoming jazz festival T he 41st annual Playboy Jazz Festival will feel some extra Bakersfield bump when bassist Robin Bramlett hits the stage at the Hollywood Bowl this weekend. Appearing with her acclaimed contemporary jazz outfit, Jazz In Pink, the veteran local musician is cool and ready to groove with her multi-talented bandmates when they hit the stage at the prestigious two-day festival on Saturday. If you’ve never attended the Playboy Jazz Festival before, picture one of the funkiest allday parties with the friendliest goodtime crowd around. It’s the perfect setting for Bramlett’s jazzy unit who’ve been celebrating their 10th year together. Bramlett, who joined the group in 2010, is eager to set the tone for the day’s festivities. “It is the pinnacle for us as a group,” said Bramlett, who recalled landing the gig after responding to a Facebook post by founding member, pianist Gail Jhonson who was looking for a fill-in bassist for an LA show. “I’ve only been to the Playboy Jazz Festival once back in the ’90s and have not been back since. I remember Tito Puente headlined the year I went. Now I’m about to go back as an artist to perform on that stage.” Bramlett in her own right has paid more than her dues. Ask any musician she’s performed with and you’re bound to hear praise for her level of professionalism and talent she brings at rehearsal to downbeat. Not to mention the famous co-signs she’s amassed from heavy hitters in the industry along the way. “Turns out she (Jhonson) had been talking to some other people inquiring about who I was, so she hit up my good friend, Kat Dyson (Prince’s New Power Generation) then another person to find out some more about me. I guess they gave her a good recommendation. I went to the rehearsal and the first word she said to me after we played the first song was, ‘Where have you been all my life,’ and the rest is history. We’ve played together ever since.” Now as the musical director of Jazz in Pink, a role she took on three years ago, Bramlett says the group is just like a family of equals. When you have this much collective skill under one roof, creative input is expected and encouraged. “We’ve been playing so long, we just kind of finish each other’s sentences in the music. Everyone has so many great ideas. I can just bring a song to rehearsal and someone will add something new as we go along. That just makes us better, because at the end of the

PHOTO COURTESY OF ROBIN BRAMLETT

SoCal based contemporary jazz group Jazz In Pink will perform Saturday at the 41st annual Playboy Jazz Festival at the Hollywood Bowl. Pictured above left to right: Dee Simone, D’Love, Robin Bramlett, Karen Briggs and Gail Jhonson.

day we’re a team walking out on Shanice Wilson, Chrisette Mithat stage together.” chele, to name a few. One day she Bramlett’s musical climb may be caught up in a cool jam through the local with The Baylor Projranks started at the ect, the next backing age of 18 when she legendary soul funk began performing as singer Nona Hendryx part of the St. John’s with another recently Baptist Church worreunited project, Hit ship band. She credits Like a Girl. mentors Donald Fac“I usually get music tory and Don Hicks with a good amount with introducing of time, sometimes a MATT MUNOZ her to the working week before dependFOR THE CALIFORNIAN logistics of a band. ing on who it is. I’ll Along the way, Bramalways be ready by lett would find herself jamming rehearsal time.” alongside a number of local heavJoining Bramlett and Jhonson ies including saxophonist Darren onstage Saturday with Jazz in Pink: Gholston and Jay Jay Hicks. Dee Simone, drums; D’Love, gui“I owe a lot to those guys,” she tar; Karen Briggs, violin, Tomoka said. Nomura-Jarvis, saxophone and In time, Bramlett would break flute; Mariea Antoinette, harp; Josie out as both a soloist, songwriter Alieo Stewart, Tamina Johnson and and exciting performer. From the Aanka on vocals. clubs of Bakersfield honing her Also appearing in Saturday’s chops playing every genre posline-up is Angelique Kidjo, Bela sible: funk, soul, reggae, Latin. If Fleck & The Flecktones, Sheila there’s a cool groove to be found, E., Kool & The Gang, Terrence Bramlett learned it, filing it away Martin, Benny Golson’s 90th in her databank until an opportu- Birthday Quartet, Celebrating nity presents itself to perform out Ndugu Chancler featuring Patrice of town, in the air, even at sea. Rushen, Terrence Blanchard, Er“Being a solo artist is cool, but nie Watts, Terri Lyne Carrington, I just love playing bass, being on Doc Powell, Alphonso Johnson, the bottom. That’s what drove Munyungo Jackson and more. me to the instrument in the first The festival’s emcee is comeplace. Lead is cool. That’s andian George Lopez. other side of me, but I just have a “We got a slammin’ 40-minute greater love for being supportive.” set planned for Saturday,” she Over the years, Bramlett’s talsaid. “We’re gonna get you.” ents have also been heard backThe 42nd annual Playboy Jazz ing a number of iconic soul, jazz, Festival. 3 p.m. Saturday and Sunpop and gospel artists including day at the Hollywood Bowl, 2301 Miki Howard, Maysa, Jon B., N. Highland Ave., Hollywood, CA.

Veteran Bakersfield bassist Robin Bramlett.

Tickets are $25 to $196 plus service charge. For more information visit hollywoodbowl.com. jazzinpink.com robinbramlettmusic.com WILFREDO CRUZ JR. Add Bakersfield Latin crooner Wilfredo Cruz Jr. to the number of local artists stepping in front of the camera with a new music video for the song “Payaso,” a cover of the 1971 ballad originally recorded by late Puerto Rican salsa singer, Raphy Leavitt. Filmed and directed by Amy Janelle, the video also stars SoCal actress Christina Jardine in a

short story of love gone bad. It has passion, drama and at times you’d think you were watching a Spanish-language telenovela; however, in this mini-soap opera there’s no cat fight with “la otra mujer” (the other woman) and nobody gets poisoned by the neighborhood bruja (witch). Is it real or a nightmare? Watch and find out. Recorded and produced by local musician Tony Rinaldi (who’s also featured on the recording), “Payaso” features local Latin jazz ensemble, Viento, who Cruz also performs with regularly. The video is available video at Youtube or facebook.com/melodictreble.

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, June 20, 2019

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The joys of compact discs and difficulty of discarding them R

emember the joy of bringing home your first compact discs? I’m going to date myself, but for me it was “Music For The Masses” by Depeche Mode, followed by U2’s “The Joshua Tree” purchased at the old Wherehouse music store on Columbus. I couldn’t wait to drop them into my newly acquired CD player neatly wedged atop the cassette player of my weathered ’80s college component system. Hearing the crystal-clear opening beats of “Never Let Me Down Again,” “Strangelove” and guitar strums of “Where The Streets Have No Name” make their entrance through the silence stay with me to this day. One click, no skips, rewind buttons or fear of tape snapping. The digital age had arrived, and I jumped in wallet first. Exactly how much I’ve spent on CDs after all these years is unknown, but it’s been enough that PHOTO BY JEAN-LUC SLAGLE, SCOPE STUDIOS they developed into a permanent Bakersfield soul jazz ensemble Soulajar will perform Friday at The Mark. (sometimes intrusive) roommate over the decades that followed. Starting with a handful to box full, I get it. It was cool when we crates and finally towering storwere dating, but we’re married age shelves, my carefully curated now. Wait, I don’t recall any mencollection was once the pride of tion of CDs in those vows? my existence second only to my I am by no means a music children. hoarder, so while my From apartment to wife was on a work apartment, their care trip I surprised her was priority. From the with a text that I’d cut highest quality bubdown my collection ble wrap to secured to over half. Took me sealing, nothing could a few hours and two come between me pots of strong coffee, and my beloved CDs. but I did it and surSure, streaming prisingly with ease. MATT MUNOZ music is convenient The process of and yes I do use them, FOR THE CALIFORNIAN weeding out helped but is the rare Elastica me learn a few things concert bootleg “The Vaseline about myself. For one, there are Gang” available on iTunes or that some artists and genres of music I out of print Jump with Joey Japdon’t care enough to listen to anyanese import “Ska Ba” available more that would justify having for listen on Pandora? And what three dedicated shelves. Secondly, about my original Skunk Records if you haven’t listened to a title in pressing of Sublime’s “40 Oz. to over five years, chances are you’re Freedom” with all the uncleared not going to listen to it ever again. samples? Absolutely not. The weight lifted. Any regrets? My wife Miranda jokes around None as I look to the eight neatly from time to time about my once stacked piles of CDs in the corner hallowed CD collection, but under- awaiting to be packed and (hopeCOURTESY OF GENERACION SUICIDA stands the potential agony I might fully) sold in the future. deal with having to say “Adios” to Not to worry though, I still have “Reflejos” is the latest release by SoCal punk rock quartet these constant companions. another thousand titles to console Generacion Suicida on Bakersfield label Going Underground Records. “You can always download me during this bittersweet faremusic outlet Going Underground Underground Records owner them to your computer,” she says well (wink wink). Records releasing the latest album Ron Ramirez who always has the usually cracking a smile, followed To be continued. by SoCal Mexican punk quartet pulse on the latest sounds from by, “Babe, I love you, but can GENERACION SUICIDA Generacion Suicida titled “Reflethe deep underground. From the we possibly move them to the While CDs are out, vinyl contin- jos.” I’ve been a fan since being outer cover to the inner sleeve basement?” ues its hold on listeners with local introduced to the band by Going and quality red, white or black

vinyl, Ramirez’s attention to detail when packaging products under his imprint is always impressive. Fans of classic New York style punk and goth will really like this record. Who knows? A few loud spins of “Reflejos” might even help you improve your Spanish if you can keep up. Available at Going Underground Records, 1312 19th St. For more information, call 633-0111 or visit goingundergroundrecords.com MATT’S PICKS Soulajar, Lonely Avenue, 6 p.m. Friday, The Mark, 1623 19th St., $5. 322-7665. Coming off their triumphant return to the stage opening for Average White Band earlier this month, local soul funk unit Soulajar are about to do it again, this time joined by their rootsy brethren Lonely Avenue, with whom they share a common musical bond. Plenty of originals and crowd-pleasing covers between the two and the musicianship is tops with two of Bako’s best vocalists, brothers Jon and Jim Ranger out front. It’s been awhile since these two acts have paired up for a show, so make sure to catch them while you can. Friday marks the first day of summer, also known as the summer solstice and the longest day of the year. Groovy. Sixties and Hip Hop, 9 p.m. Saturday, Sandrini’s, 1918 Eye St., free. 322-8900. Bakersfield may be home to more deejays than live bands these days with music selectors of every age, genre and gender (!) downloading their favorite grooves on a mission to fill dancefloors. But what makes this gathering of the tribes unique is their plan to bridge two distinct musical eras. Featuring local singers Stephanie “Soul” Solis and Chuck who will be covering ’60s-era oldies (but goodies, of course) backed by local live band Here by Fate. The evening also includes all-vinyl music sets by Mr. Groove of the Funk Freaks, Soulcatcher and Lil’ Red. Their last event reached capacity early, so plan accordingly and be good humans. Hops & Vibes, 9 p.m., Saturday, The Tower Craft Bar & Grill, 1200 Truxtun Ave., $10 — $15, 21 & over, 262-9993. It’s no secret that Bakersfield Please see LOWDOWN | 16

The Bakersfield Californian Thursday, June 20, 2019

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BUCK OWENS’ CRYSTAL PALACE 2800 Buck Owens Blvd. 328-7560. Buckowens. com, prices do not include service fees.

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“We like to celebrate each other,” Clarke said. “We do drink. There’s lots of cheers-ing. The first drink is always on us.” Brush & Blush, meanwhile, has more of an open studio vibe. Guests can bring beer, wine and snacks, but things don’t usually get too crazy, De Vries said. All ages are welcome to the events, though parents should know alcohol might be present and that some designs could be too complicated for younger kids. It also offers events geared toward kids with smaller boards and simpler designs. At both businesses, the most popular designs are ones with last names or other personalized details. Seasonal and faith-based designs are also popular. The events tend to get more women, but De Vries said she has seen several men get into the board painting fun too. “I get more women at all of them, but they love to drag their husbands to events, and the men are the most creative,” she said, adding that some will give their boards an ombre or textured effect. “They make beautiful boards.” Compared to Brush & Blush’s paint events, and others like it, De Vries said the board nights are more laid back. Instead of following along with a painting step by step, guests learn the full process of making signs and each person is usually doing

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COURTESY OF BRUSH & BLUSH EASEL EVENTS

At Brush & Blush’s Board Crazy events, guests start with a raw piece of wood, which they then paint before applying their vinyl stencils and painting their design.

something different. “I think it’s more lighthearted,” De Vries said. “You don’t have to stress that your barn looks like a barn. It’s going to turn out. It’s so much less stress.” Whichever one people go to, board painting parties are all about having creative, productive fun. “It’s a good way for people to get out, have a little fun and just relax,” Clarke said. “Relax, have a good time and go home with something you’re proud of.” Once guests go for the first time, it won’t be long before they return. Both businesses have plenty of repeat customers. “People like to make their own stuff, especially if it turns out great,” De Vries said. “Once they start, they get addicted.” Kelly Ardis can be reached at 661-395-7660. Follow her on Twitter at @ TBCKellyArdis.

Owens and the Buck Fever Band; Night Life Band, 7 p.m. $5. ■■ July 11: Los Lonely Boys, 8 p.m. $33.50-$43.50. ■■ July 25: Aaron Watson, 8 p.m. $30-$38. ■■ July 26 and 27: Johnny Owens and The Buck Fever Band; Night Life Band, 7 p.m. $5. FORD THEATER 1101 E. Lerdo Highway, Shafter, 630-4053, shafterfordtheatre.com ■■ Aug. 2-4: “Annie jr.,”

7 p.m. Aug. 2 and 3; 4 p.m. Aug. 4. $10; kids 12 and under $5. PARK AT RIVER WALK, SPECTRUM AMPHITHEATRE 11200 Stockdale Highway, 888-929-7849, AXS.com ■■ July 4: Community cele-

bration with Truxtun Mile at 6 p.m. and Wilfredo Cruz Jr. at 7 p.m. Free. ■■ Aug. 1: Slightly Stoopid, “How I Spent My Summer Vacation Tour,” featuring Tribal Seeds and Hirie, 6 p.m. $40-$60. THE MARKETPLACE Free concerts 7-9 p.m., 9000 Ming Ave. themarketplacebakersfield.com ■■ Today: Foster Campbell

and Friends ■■ June 27: The Byrom Brothers ■■ July 4: Last Call ■■ July 11: Warfield featuring Sheri Warfield ■■ July 18: Rod P and Nu Standard ■■ July 25: Lost Vinyl ■■ Aug. 1: The John Hollins Band ■■ Aug. 8: The Aviators ■■ Aug. 15: The Jay Smith Group ■■ Aug. 22: Orphan Jon and The Abandoned ■■ Aug. 29: Mento Buru FOX THEATER 2001 H St., 324-1369, thebakersfieldfox.com. Price does not include service charges.

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loves reggae music and craft beer, so when there’s both it’s bound to get Irie. Spinning all the current hits

■■ Today: Tyler Farr, 8 p.m.

$35-$49. ■■ Saturday: Mario Aguilar, “Celosa Yo Jamas!,” 8 p.m. $30-$65. ■■ June 27: Aziz Ansari: Road to Nowhere, 8 p.m. $35-$72. ■■ June 29: Legends of Funk, featuring Lakeside, 8 p.m. $40-$100. ■■ July 5: Brit Floyd World Tour 2019; The Greatest Pink Floyd Show, 8 p.m. $40-$185. ■■ July 9: Lyle Lovett and His Large Band, 8 p.m. $39-$89. ■■ July 10: “Friends! The Musical Parody,” 7:30 p.m. $29-$49. ■■ July 14: La Caravana Del Amor, 7 p.m. $40-$125. ■■ July 26: Ken Burns’s Country Music Roadshow, 6 p.m. $45-$60. ■■ July 27: Brotha Lynch Hung, X-Raided, 8 p.m. $25-$60. ■■ Sept. 17: Kansas, Point of Know Return Anniversary Tour, 7:30 p.m. $45-$120. ■■ Sept. 20: Home Free: Dive Bar Saints World Tour, 8 p.m. $20.50-$60.50. ■■ Oct. 4 and 5: Smokin’ Armadillos, 8 p.m. $35-$70. ■■ Oct. 6: We Will Rock You: The Musical, 7 p.m. $45-$180. ■■ Oct. 12: The Legendary Count Basie Orchestra, 7:30 p.m. $30-$60. ■■ Oct. 22: Joe Bonamassa, 8 p.m. $69-$179. ■■ Nov. 2: Three Dog Night, 8 p.m. $37-$72. ■■ Nov. 10: Great Russian Nutcracker, 3 p.m. $23-$175. ■■ Nov. 16: Felipe Esparza: The Bad Hambre Tour, 8 p.m. $37.50-$60. RABOBANK ARENA THEATER AND CONVENTION CENTER 1001 Truxtun Ave., rabobankarena.com, axs.com or 1-888-929-7849. Price does not include service charges.

7:30 p.m. $39-$129. ■■ Aug. 23: Toby Keith’s

“That’s Country Bro” Tour, featuring Ned Leboux, 8 p.m. $44-$820. ■■ Aug. 30: Banda MS de Sergio Lizarraga, 8 p.m. $67-$245. ■■ Sept. 13: Ghost with Nothing More, 7:30 p.m. $26.50-$66.50. ■■ Oct. 1-2: Nick Jr. Live! “Move to the Music,” 6 p.m. $18-$55. ■■ Oct. 10: Newsboys United, Greatness of Our God Tour, 7 p.m. $22-$100. ■■ Oct. 11: Jo Koy, Just Kidding World Tour, 8 p.m. $45-$55. ■■ Oct. 20: J Balvin, 8 p.m. $54-$1,092. ■■ Nov. 2 and 3: Jon Pardi with special guest Riley Green, 7:30 p.m. $34-$51. ■■ Nov 1, 2 and 3: Disney on Ice: Worlds of Enchantment, 7 p.m. Nov. 1; 11 a.m., 3 p.m., and 7 p.m. Nov. 2; 1 and 5 p.m. Nov. 3. $38-$328. ■■ Nov. 5: Blue Man Group, Speechless New Tour, 7:30 p.m. $35-$70. ■■ Dec. 16: Cirque Dreams Holidaze, 7:30 p.m. $35-$65. ■■ Jan. 7: Sesame Street Live, Make Your Magic, 6 p.m. $18-$63. SPEAKEASY BAR AND GRILL AT 1933 EVENT CENTER 7900 Downing Ave., Suite B, 829-5377, facebook. com/1933eventceter ■■ July 14: Robert DeLong,

See You in the Future Tour, 7:30 p.m. $15. BAKERSFIELD MUSIC HALL OF FAME 2231 R St., 864-1701, bakersfieldmusichalloffame. com. ■■ Today: AEROMYTH:

field, featuring Zapp, The Barkays, One Way, The Original Mary Jane Girls (Maxi and Cheri) and Vaughn Mason, 7:30 p.m. $39-$119. ■■ Aug. 11: Jackson Browne,

Aerosmith Tribute, 6 p.m. $30-$35. ■■ July 18: Abbey Road: Beatles Tribute, 7 p.m. $30-$35. ■■ Aug. 1: Petty and The Heartshakers: Tom Petty Tribute, 7 p.m. $30-$35. ■■ Sept. 5: Escape: Journey Tribute, 7 p.m. $30-$35. ■■ Oct. 11: Smooth Sounds of Santana: Santana Tribute, 7 p.m. $30-$35.

and deep cuts direct from the Jamaica, Victor “DJ Shag” Gomez is more than just a devoted fan of dancehall, lovers rock and roots music, he lives the culture. If you’ve never visited The Tower, you really should.

The indoor and outdoor areas are perfect for music and socializing with plenty of dance space, impressive bar, and a kitchen with a limited menu for the evening. To sweeten the deal, all June birthday babies,

■■ July 27: Funk N Bakers-

■■ Oct. 17: Strange Days:

The Doors Tribute, 7 p.m. $30-$35. ■■ Nov. 7: Twisted Gypsy: Fleetwood Mac Tribute, 7 p.m. $35-$40. ■■ Nov. 21: Queen Nation: Queen Tribute, 7 p.m. $35-$40. ■■ Dec. 5: Don’t Look Back: Boston Tribute, 7 p.m. $35-$40. WORLD RECORDS 2815 F St., 831-3100/3251982, shopworldrecords. com ■■ Saturday: Dave Alvin

and Jimmie Dale Gilmore with The Guilty Ones, 7 p.m. $30. EDWARDS BAKERSFIELD STADIUM 14 9000 Ming Ave., 844-4627342, FathomEvents.com. $12.50, unless noted. ■■ Today: “Drum Corps

International Tour Premiere,” 5:30 p.m. $20. ■■ June 23 and 25: “Forrest Gump,” 3 p.m. June 23; 7 p.m. June 25. ■■ June 25 and 29: “Kinky Boots the Musical,” 7 p.m. June 25; 12:55 p.m. June 29. $18. ■■ July 1 and 2: “Whisper of the Heart,” 7 p.m. ■■ July 11 and 15: “Sound! Euphonium: The Movie,” 7 p.m. TEMBLOR BREWING CO. 3200 Buck Owens Blvd., 489-4855, temblorbrewing.com. Price does not include service charges. For audiences 18 and over unless noted. ■■ June 27: T.J. Miller, 8 p.m.

$35-$50. ■■ June 28: The Fillers,

7 p.m. Free. ■■ July 4: The Other Favor-

ites and Reina Del Cid, 7 p.m. $20. ■■ July 13: Chris Shiflett and Jade Jackson, 8 p.m. $12. ■■ July 20: Dustin Ybarra, 8 p.m. $15; $30 VIP. ■■ Aug. 2: Cash’d Out: Tribute to Johnny Cash, 9 p.m. $20. ■■ Aug. 3: Dave’s Not Here: Tribute to Foo Fighters, 8 p.m. $8. ■■ Nov. 20: 2019 Night B4 Thanksgiving Jam, featuring Mento Buru, 6 p.m. Free.

CSUB and Bakersfield College grads get in free. Contributing columnist Matt Munoz brings you the latest news on Bakersfield’s music scene every other Thursday.