Dave Alvin & The Guilty Women Dave and six women musical superstars!!
This show, without question, is my “can’t miss show of the Spring, Summer and maybe even the Fall!! Dave Alvin, the Grammy winning front man from the super group, The Blasters, returns again to the Big Room (yes, his last show was a “get your tickets early, total sell-out) for a one of a kind music event. Not only is Dave a fabulous singer/songwriter/guitarist but he also has to be one of the smartest guys on the planet. I mean….he’s traveling with six of the most talented women musicians playing today. I’m talking: Christy McWilson: vocals, Cindy Cashdollar: dobro, Nina Gerber: acoustic lead guitar, Laurie Lewis: fiddle, Amy Farris: fiddle, Sarah Brown: bass, Lisa Pankratz: drums, Suzy Thompson: accordion & mandolin. They were the talk of Hardy Strictly in S.F. last year and I’m proud to be able to present this show to the Big Room faithful. I mean….Cindy Cashdollar, Nina Gerber, Laurie Lewis….are you kidding me? Please, get your tickets early because when they’re gone…..they’re gone.
For additional information on Dave Alvin & The Guilty Women, please visit
www.davealvin.net
PLEASE NOTE!!!! DUE TO A SCHEDULING CONFLICT, THE SHOW DATE HAS BEEN CHANGED TO Tuesday JUNE 16!! TICKETS WILL STILL GO ON SALE SATURDAY MAY 9TH FOR THE JUNE 16TH SHOW!!!! THANK YOU.
"Western swing that'll have you dancing in the aisles"
In Texas they say Bob Wills is still the king. But Asleep at the Wheel is the official heir apparent, a perennialBig Room favorite well into a fourth decade of fabulous Western swing dance rhythms and artful country songwriting. More than 80 members have passed through Asleep at the Wheel since the band's beginnings, but founder Ray Benson's vision of an ongoing and constantly growing tribute to the giants of Western swing, with generous helpings of country and jump blues, has stayed fresh. Asleep at the Wheel has a fabulous new album out with Willie Nelson, called "Willie and the Wheel." This band offers a high-energy show guaranteed to make you jump right out of your seat The dance floor is wide open and please....leave your spurs at home. Get your tickets early.
Rick Estrin & The Nightcats One of the great jump blues harp players.
Today, singer/harmonica player/songwriter Rick Estrin ranks among the very best harp players in the blues world. The Associated Press called his harp playing, "endlessly impressive." The great guitarist Robert Lockwood, Jr. (who was schooled by Robert Johnson and who played on most of Little Walter's Chess recordings) told Estrin, "Little Walter would be very proud of you. For more than 30 years and nine albums, Rick fronted the jumping, swinging Little Charlie & The Nightcats, featuring guitarist Little Charlie Baty. But now, with Baty's recent retirement from touring, Estrin -- along with the Nightcats longtime rhythm section of J. Hansen and Lorenzo Ferrell and fiery guitarist Kid Andersen -- is ready to take the lead on his own. His quick wit, coifed hair, pencil-thin mustache and sharp attire shape his songs in a way Cab Calloway, Louis Jordan, Willie Dixon and Elvis Presley would all be proud of. Besides Estrin's songwriting and musical skills, he is among the greatest live showmen around. "People don't go out to see people who look like them," says Rick. "They want to see something special. I was schooled in this business to be a showman, and that's what you get when you come to see me perform." The Chicago Sun-Times noted, "It's tough to stay in your seat when Estrin and his musical cohorts get cooking." Now featuring Kid Andersen on guitar, he is without a doubt, worth the price of admission alone. He was born in Telemark, Norway in 1980. A blues fan since childhood, Andersen fell in love with the the music of Jimmy Rogers, Lightnin' Hopkins, Junior Watson, and the Kings (B.B., Albert and Freddie). By the time he was 18, he was backing all the American blues stars who came through Norway, including Homesick James, Nappy Brown, Willie "Big Eyes" Smith and others. He moved to California at age 21, and has released four solo albums and has played with the legend Charlie Musselwhite since 2004. Now a full-time member of The Nightcats, The Kid has to be heard to be believed. Join us for a dancing good time of true California jump blues.
The Flatlanders Featuring Joe Ely, Jimmie Dale Gilmore & Butch Hancock.
The Flatlanders are a trio of Texas music titans; Joe Ely, Jimmie Dale Gilmore and Butch Hancock. Their diverse yet complimentary styles - Joe the street-wise rocker, Jimmie Dale, the mystic with the classic country voice and Butch, the cerebral folk singer – and you’ve got a story of one of the most extraordinary kinships in American musical history.
Each have had a formidable solo career and when they reunited as The Flatlanders in 1998 to do a recording at the behest of Robert Redford’s people for the soundtrack of The Horse Whisper, they had so much fun that they cut an entire album. The result, Now Again, was unanimously received as a triumph. Mojo Magazine dubbed them the “country Beatles. Rolling Stone raved. Billboard called it “An event record that lives up to all expectations.” The album spent 17 weeks at #1 on the Americana charts and 21 weeks on the Billboard charts. This will be a special evening of cerebral, heart felt, roots, Americana and country music by three legends of the industry. I am honored to be able to present them in the Big Room.
The Greencards & The Carrie Rodriguez Trio Two national acoustic headliners together for a special evening in the Big Room.
A special evening of acoustic music. Two national headliners. Opening the show will be The Carrie Rodriguez Trio. Hailed by Lucinda Williams, recruited by Alejandro Escovedo, and nurtured by Lyle Lovett, singer-songwriter Carrie Rodriguez has rapidly emerged as one of the most compelling new voices on the roots-rock scene. The Austin, Texas-raised fiddler recently released her second solo album, She Ain't Me (Manhattan), which captures a prodigiously talented musician in the process of forging a sound that's unapologetically tough and intriguingly sensual." Andrew Gilbert / The Boston Globe (9/5/08) This will be her first Northern California appearance. Worth the price of admission alone. Closing the show will be the Big Room favorites, The Greencards. This will be their third appearance (they quickly sold out their first two) and it follows on the heals of the release of their newest CD, “Fascination”. An example of how much they enjoy their visits to the Big Room is made clear by the cut on their new CD apply titled “Chico Calling”. They feature soulful and sexy vocals (Carol Young) and killer musicianship on guitar, fiddle and mandolin. I have no doubt that this will be one of the “special” Big Room acoustic events of the entire year. Join us.
For additional information on The Greencards & The Carrie Rodriguez Trio, please visit
www.thegreencards.com
The Jackie Greene Band "The Prince of Americana." The N.Y. Times
A Chico favorite is back. Not much to say. One of the most popular performers ever to play the Big Room. Jackie and his band will be bringing their own opening act (to be announced) and then we’ll be turning Jackie and the gang loose for an evening of dining & dancing like there’s no tomorrow. There will be a limit of 6 tickets per person so be organized.
For additional information on The Jackie Greene Band, please visit
www.jackiegreene.com
Comedian Norm Macdonald (from Sat. Night Live) Named one of the 100 best comedians of all-time by Comedy Central.
It’s comedy night in the Big Room featuring Saturday Night Live’s Weekend update anchor Norm Macdonald!! He is known for his biting sarcasm, quick wit, distinct mutterings and slurred delivery. He’s performed as a stand-up comedian in clubs all over the world and has been a writer for such shows as Roseanne and a performer on such shows as The Drew Carey Show, NewsRadio and Comedy Central. Norm also had his own TV sitcom, “The Norm Show” which ran for three years on ABC and he was named one of the 100 Greatest Stand-ups of All Time on the five part mini-series featured on Comedy Central. Trust me when I say that the Big Room was made for stand-up comedy. This will be an all-ages show but let me be clear that parts will definitely be “R” rated. An opening act comedian will be announced soon. I think what we all need about now is an evening filled with laughter. Be sure to get your tickets early as they’ll go fast.
Saturday, April 25, 2009
MarchFourth Marching Band & Rube Waddell A Saturday night celebration in the Big Room!
MarchFourth Marching Band
Conversations stop, heads turn, eyes open wide, and smiles erupt. The awe-inspiring MarchFourth Marching Band is in the house. MarchFourth is a mobile big band spectacular, consisting of saxophones, trombones, trumpets and a 5 to 10-piece drum/percussion corps, all anchored by electric bass. The sound is HUGE. The band writes and performs its own material, and also draws inspiration from an eclectic range of worldwide influences, such as Eastern European Gypsy Brass, Samba, Funk, Afro-Beat, Big-Band, Jazz, and Rock music, as well as television, film, circus, and Vaudeville. M4’s stilt-walkers are world-class, performing acrobatics, dance routines, and even fire dancing while moving through the crowd, and the band’s dancing Beauties fill the stage with mesmerizing routines and gorgeous costumes. The energy from this talented band will have the entire crowd moving and scores heading to the dance floor. When MarchFourth Marching Band’s mobile musicians fill the stage, the quality of the sound and dynamic performances provide a not-to-be-missed cabaret with universal appeal.
Rube Waddell
Rube Waddell is a San Francisco-based quartet performing its own breed of modern Americana music. They mix together cast-off parts, twisted scraps, and rusty hinges of Blues, Gospel, Country, American and Irish Folk, Punk, Rock, comic Vaudeville, German theater, Mexican Banda, Mid-Eastern and Asian ditties into a raw junkyard stew stirred by their varied array of traditional and homemade instruments. Reviewers have compared Rube Waddell at times to Captain Beefheart, the Fugs, Ween, Doo-Rag, Tom Waits, Jon Spencer and other lo-fi giants.
Wild Oak Records Benefit A special "Party in the Pub" to benefit Wild Oak Records.
A special “Party in the Pub” event. Time once again for our annual benefit concert for the Wild Oak Music Group. In association with Chico State, the group features departments for the study of Artist Management, Arts and Graphics, Business Affairs, Concert Production, Marketing and Media Relations. Doors in the Pub will open at 6 PM and music will begin at 7 PM. The event will feature performances by Kyle Williams (folk), Briana and the Gokays (Blues/Folk Rock), Kenny Williams Jr. & Mike Pascale (folk), Belles & Whistles (Folk Rock) and Pat Hull (Folk). There will be limited seating, a special menu and weather permitting, full patio seating. Tickets will only be available at the door ($5) and the proceeds will go to the Wild Oak Music Group. Come on out and support local talent.
For additional information on Wild Oak Records Benefit, please visit
www.wildoakrecords.com
ROY ROGERS & the Delta Rhythm Kings The master of the slide blues guitar.
The favorite son returns to celebrate his 25th Anniversary and host a CD release party for his newest CD available show night…..first time, anywhere. As you all know, Roy is one of the premier slide guitarists performing today. He’s been nominated for 2 Grammy Awards and 6 Grammy credits as a producer. Rogers’ ability to electrify and move audiences to their feet (read dance floor) is well known. He’s been recognized worldwide in and such publications as Rolling Stone, USA Today, Billboard, Guitar Player and Acoustic Guitar magazines. “Rogers is both a sensational and sensitive blues guitarist – certainly among the finest slide guitarists playing today.” S.F. Chronicle.
“Rogers is an exceptionally articulate slide guitarist, either he’s scorching Robert Johnson’s “Ramblin’ Blues” or taking a lovely, lyrical journey…or just plain rockin’ it out. One of the rare guitar heroes who values feeling over flash.” Rolling Stone. “Many guitarists dabble in slide guitar, but the number of modern masters can probably be counted on one hand – Roy is surely one of them.” Guitar Player. Pundits who bemoan the scarcity of guitar gods haven’t laid ears on Roy Rogers, whose slide riffs could peel a crawfish.” USA Today. Guess that about sums it up. 25th Anniversary. First access CD release party. Open dance floor. Great food. Fabulous beer. Sounds like a party to me.
For additional information on ROY ROGERS & the Delta Rhythm Kings, please visit
www.roy-rogers.com
Jake Shimabukuro is becoming recognized as one of the world’s top ukulele (oo-koo-Lay-lay) musicians. Labeled the Jimi Hendrix of the ukulele, his virtuosity defies label or category. Playing jazz, blues, funk classical, bluegrass, folk, flamenco, and rock, Jake’s mission is to show everyone that the ukulele is capable of so much more than only the traditional Hawaiian music many associate it with. A true showman, his performance captivates audiences with intricate strumming and plucking, electrifying, high-energy grooves and smooth, melodic ballads evoking heartfelt emotion. Last year, a video clip of Jake playing George Harrison’s “While My Guitar Gently Weeps” was posted on you-tube resulting in emails of awe from around the world. To date over 2.6 million have viewed this posting. I invite you to check it out. Remember the first time you saw Tommy Emmanuel? Hold that thought. Get your tickets early as they’ll go quick for this one-of-a-kind performer.
Steve Kimock Crazy Engine A non-stop musical tour-de-force!
Steve Kimock brings to the Big Room his newest project, Crazy Engine. Exploring a new direction, Crazy Engine is a Kimock project unlike any other. Pushing the boundaries of rock and roll, rhythm and blues, gospel and soul, the repertoire will include Kimock classics as well as an energized catalogue of covers and fresh material. For nearly four decades, Steve Kimock has earned a reputation as a guitarist with an enlightened approach to melodic improvisation. The long-awaited project will also feature legendary Hammond B3 player, Melvin Seals, best known for his work with the Jerry Garcia Band. The glistening new line-up also includes the cookin’ rhythm section of Janis Wallin on bass and Kimock’s own son John Morgan Kimock on drums. Rounding out the configuration with their soulful crooning are “The Girls” on vocals, featuring Cheryl Ruck and Shirley Starks, also former members of the JGB. You might as well see them in the Big Room than drive to the bay area to see them during their two night stand at The Great American Music Hall. Limited tickets available as a chunk has already been sold to the Kimock fan club soooo, don’t wait. And yes, the dance floor is open.
For additional information on Steve Kimock Crazy Engine, please visit
www.kimock.com
Wake The Dead The World's only Celtic All-Star Grateful Dead Jam Band
Join us for a unique post St. Patrick’s Day celebration with Wake The Dead!!
Imagine if you will the songs of the Grateful Dead played with traditional Celtic flair and instrumentation. Can you say a dancing good time?? Wake The Dead features 7 top Bay Area musicians romping seamlessly from rock grooves to hot Irish reels that will be instantly familiar to Deadheads everywhere. “Sugaree” in waltz time. “Bertha” thundering out of “China Cat” on a mandolin tidal wave. The eerie lilt of the uilleann pipes, giving a glow to “Bird Song” as if it was always meant to be played that way. Endless jams to keep the tie-die swirling. Vocal harmonies that float like clouds.
“This marks the beginning of an era of music that I think is the most important, wonderfullest (his word) thing to happen to Grateful Dead music since Jerry died. I haven’t heard anything that portrays the spirit – not even coming from the Grateful Dead members – that comes this close to realizing the kindness of Jerry Garcia and the spirit of the Grateful Dead.” Vince Welnick, Grateful Dead keyboardist. “Dead touchstones, Friend of the Devil, Bertha, Sugaree and Touch of Grey never sounded fresher. Indyweek.com. “Wake The Dead converts folkies into Deadheads and ‘heads’ into folkies.” Amazon.com. Wear your tie-dies, bring your vocal cords….time to dance and sing along…Get your tickets early for this truly one of a kind show. Happy St. Patrick’s Day!!
For additional information on Wake The Dead, please visit
www.wakethedead.org
Janiva Magness Band Nominated for "B.B. King Entertainer of the Year" award.
Los Angeles based Janiva Magness is one of today’s most talented and recognized blues and roots vocalists. In May of 2007, Janiva won her second consecutive Blues Music Award for Contemporary Female Artist of the Year beating out such contemporaries as Susan Tedeschi, Shemekia Copeland and Marcia Ball. This year (2009) she’s been nominated for Contempory Blues Female Artists of the Year, Contemporary Blues Album of the Year, Album of the Year and B.B. King Entertainer of the Year!! Her release of “Do I Move You?” is the #1 record of the year on Blues Radio Airplay Charts!”
Here’s what people are saying about Janiva and her band. “Janiva sings with a rare conviction. She will not be denied.” Delbert McClinton. “Janiva always knocks me out because she has such style and poise on stage and she hits every note she sings just right, perfect every time.” Charlie Musselwhite. “She blurs the line between blues and soul (and you could add gospel into that mix).” All Music Guide. I’m proud to present Janiva to the north state for the first time. This is a must see, bring your friends and put on your dancing shoes event. Tickets go on sale Saturday February 14 at 10 AM in the pub (Valentine’s Day) so it would be the perfect gift for the blues lover in your family.
For additional information on Janiva Magness Band, please visit
www.janivamagness.com
Country Joe's Tribute to Woody Guthrie A two act presentation on the life and times of Woody Guthrie by Country Joe.
In 2001 Country Joe was asked by the National Steinbeck Center to give a performance as part of its display of the Smithsonian Institution traveling exhibition "This Land Is Your Land: The Life and Legacy of Woody Guthrie." This served as a reason for Joe to revisit his connection with Woody Guthrie and the state of Oklahoma. McDonald, opens the tribute with a moving performance of Woody’s best-known tune, “This Land is Your Land,” and ultimately Joe sings 13 Woody Guthrie songs, all in a strong clear voice that doesn’t mimic Guthrie’s style, but conveys the emotion and energy that defines Guthrie. A significant body of Guthrie’s work resulted from his 30-day song-writing stint with the WPA in 1941. He was 28 and, while visiting the Grand Coulee Dam under construction, and traveling along the Columbia River in Oregon and Washington, he wrote his compelling songs -- anthems, really – “Roll on Columbia,” “Ramblin’ Round,” “Pastures of Plenty,” and “Grand Coulee Dam.” Country Joe’s performance includes several of these songs, and audience participation. McDonald reads from a column Woody wrote for the People’s World called “Woody Sez,” a funny piece showing Woody’s amazement and pain at navigating NY City on nickels and dimes. These readings, sprinkled between songs, reveal Woody’s inimitable humor through his experiences selling miracle cure potions, drinking low-quality moonshine, and the universal subject of car-breakdowns (Woody’s beater “used a quart ever’ time it backfired, an’ 2 quarts when it run front ways.”) This Tribute incorporates all the good stuff, and the hard stuff, including Woody’s sad decline from the disease he inherited from his mother, union struggles during the Great Depression, migrant life on the trail from the Dust Bowl to California, where you’re in trouble if you don’t have the “Do Re Me,” a great Woody tune McDonald sings in the show. The 90-minute performance, which includes an intermission, is a show for the whole family. “Like no one of his generation, Country Joe McDonald carries on the mission of Woody Guthrie.” Billy Bragg
For additional information on Country Joe's Tribute to Woody Guthrie, please visit
www.countryjoe.com
The Drew Emmitt Band (of Leftover Salmon) Join us for an evening of whirling and twirling cause the dance floor is open
Drew Emmitt (of Leftover Salmon) is one of the most energetic and innovative mandolin players on the jamband/roots/Americana music scene today. His superlative storytelling and versatile vocal abilities guarantee an evening of delightful whirl and twirl dance music. The band features Drew (mandolin, guitar, vocals (Leftover Salmon), Steven Sandifer – drums (The Biscuit Boys), Tyler Grant – guitar (Emmitt/Nershi Band), Andy Thorn – banjo (Emmitt/Nershi Band) and Eric Thorin – bass (Open Road, Tony Furtado).
For those of you who enjoy free flowing, good timey, “let the party begin” dance grooves, don’t miss this show. Get your tickets early, because if you don’t…..well, you know the rest.
For additional information on The Drew Emmitt Band (of Leftover Salmon), please visit
www.drewemmitt.com
Mark Hummel's Blue Harmonica Blow-out A collection of five superstars of the blues.
This series was started in 1991 and has grown to become an international event, having played festivals and theatres through out the country and around the world. Founder, Mark Hummel is a road warrior - a true Blues Survivor. Along the way, he has crafted his own trademark harmonica sound - a subtle combination of tone, phrasing and attack combined with a strong sense of swing. His band, The Blues Survivors, featuring guitarist Rusty Zinn will be featured throughout the evening as they back each of these harmonica superstars. These shows have grown to be a much-heralded event & continue to draw sellout crowds each and every time we present this gathering of legendary blues greats. (Our 7th year). How’s this for a line-up. Each of these performers have (or could have) sold out the Big Room on their own!! Start with Charlie Musselwhite. The man. Worth the price of admission alone. Lee Oskar. One of the most original players ever. Lee’s unique style defined the musical sound of the super group War. Curtis Salgado. He’s sold the Big Room out twice on his own. One of the most soulful singers and powerful soloist performing today. And lastly, Johnny Dyer. Special announcement here...Due to health concerns, Jonny will be unable to perform. And although we wish him well and will miss his charm and energy, this show still features an almost never-ending list of blues harp legends. Join us. Dance floor is open so bring your blues shoes.
Carolyn Wonderland Band A Texas roadhouse legend. Time to dance.
Welcome 2009. To celebrate we kick out the jams by welcoming the marvelously talented singer, songwriter, band leader and guitar goddess, Carolyn Wonderland out of Houston Texas. One critic wrote “If you put Melissa Etheridge, Chrissie Hynde and Dick Dale in a blender and hit puree, you’d get a pretty potent mixture called Carolyn Wonderland.” This evening will be soulful, badass, Texas roadhouse dance music with some monster guitar thrown in. Trust me when I say this will be one of those, “Bob, where do you find these people?” shows. “The rest of the country is finally catching on to what lovers of creative, heartfelt bluesy roadhouse rock have known for years in Texs...Carolyn Wonderland (and her band) have what’s called “the goods”…intelligent songwriting, intricately crafted dance grooves and a voice that has to be heard to be believed,” wrote the Colorado Springs Independent.” You computer folks out there need to do a YouTube visit and see what she’s all about. I know the show is in January but I’m already thinking it could be one of my “shows of the year.” Join us.
Rhonda Vincent & The Rage return to take the Big Room by storm one more time. In my opinion, their last visit was one of the most complete roots/Americana/bluegrass shows I've ever presented. Rhonda’s won the Female Vocalist of the Year for seven consecutive years at the IBMA (International Bluegrass Music Awards). She’s been voted Four Time Entertainer of the Year. The Wall Street Journal has dubbed Rhonda “The New Queen of Bluegrass.” She’s performed over 100 times on the stage of the world famous Grand Ole Opry. Not the Big Room, but they do’in the best they can. “Already as established a bluegrass performer as Ricky Skaggs or Alison Krauss, Vincent uses her latest live album to showcase the extraordinary talents of her band The Rage.” People Magazine. This is a first class live show, as good as it gets. Join us as they make the Big Room seem like your living room. She instantly sold out her last appearance here and one can expect the same this time. “She (Vincent) has never strayed far from bluegrass and country tradition, but what fire she breathes into that tradition.” Philadelphia Inquirer. A show for the whole family.
For additional information on Rhonda Vincent & The Rage, please visit
www.rhondavincent.com
N.Y.E. with Teresa James & The Rhythm Tramps New Year's Eve extravaganza with Teresa James & The Rhythm Kings
New Year’s Eve. The Big Room. Gourmet dinner. Jazz to dine by. Great music to dance to. Way too much fun…almost. Limited tickets. Reserved seat tickets only. Hats, horns, balloons and all the trimming you’ve come to expect from the Big Room. A complete filet mignon dinner (and other wonderful options).Appetizers, salads, killer desserts and complimentary champagne just before the midnight balloon drop. (Fingers crossed here). Doors at 7 PM. Dinner from 7 PM until 9 PM with live, easy listening jazz to help with digestion. And then…Teresa James & The Rhythm Tramps out of L.A. come out to rock the house till the cows come home. One of the most re-requested bands since their initial sold out visit in 2006; this high powered party band features Teresa James, a vocal force of nature. Tickets are reserved-seat only and must be purchased upstairs on the mezzanine above the gift shop (so you can actually choose your seats in advance.) Tickets will go on sale Saturday December 6th from 11AM to 1PM and if history is any indication, we will sell out during that time frame. If not, the remaining few will be offered on Sunday December 7th beginning at 10AM in the gift shop. Tickets for this one stop NYE celebration are $100. This year we are moving ticket sales to Saturday to make it easier for all. Join us. No one says Happy New Year’s like Sierra Nevada.
For additional information on N.Y.E. with Teresa James & The Rhythm Tramps, please visit
www.teresajames.com
Crooked Still & Houston Jones featuring Joe Craven An exciting roots/Americana twin bill for the whole family.
Once again, a show that will be presented only in the Big Room at the Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. This eclectic twin-bill opens with the up and coming roots/Americana stars Crooked Still. I’ll let others who write better than I “sing” their praises. “Crooked Still may be the most important folk group to emerge from Boston…state-of-the-art musical chops with a deep understanding of American traditional music’s raw melodic grace.” The Boston Globe. “O’Donovan. Aoife O’Donovan. Remember that name because with a sultry voice that makes her sound like a blusier Alison Krauss, she’s about to become the newest darling of the Americana set.” USA Today. One more. "Who would think that a barebones blend of fiddle, banjo and cello could create such a compelling sound? Singer Aoife O'Donovan provides seductive, down-home charm." Amplifier. Nuf said. Closing the show will be one of my newest “favorite bands,” Houston Jones featuring extra special guest Joe Craven. Twice Houston Jones has appeared as openers for nationally known headliners. Twice they’ve stolen the show. Here’s what I wrote after their first appearance. “Back in March (2007), Houston Jones opened the show for a now to be un-named national headliner making their first appearance in the Big Room. If you were there, you saw what happened. They so stole the show that I almost had to call the police. It was criminal. I mean…can you say “call 911.” I had them back later that year opening again for a “national headliner,” and well damn if they didn’t do it again. Fool me once….So, they’ve earned the closing slot. Plus, they're bringing Chico favorite son Joe Craven with them as an extra special guest. Both groups are worth the price of admission alone. Make this the perfect holiday gift to the whole family. Let me remind you that this is an all-ages venue. Give the gift of live music. Join us.
Richard Thompson One of the world's most critically acclaimed and prolific songwriters.
RICHARD THOMPSON: Named by Rolling Stone Magazine as one of the Top 20 Guitarists of all-time and the recent recipient of both an Ivor Novello Award for Songwriting and the
2006 BBC Lifetime Achievement Award, the iconic British folk rock legend is one of the world's most critically acclaimed and prolific songwriters. His work is admired and recorded by such artists as Bonnie Raitt, David Byrne and Elvis Costello. From his teenage years as a founding member of the 1960's pioneering group Fairport Convention to duo work with his then-wife, Linda Thompson, and over 20 years as a solo artist, to scoring Werner Hertzog's 2005 documentary 'Grizzly Man', Richard Thompson's astounding body of work includes over 40 albums of lyrical wit anchored by such a singular acoustic and electric guitar delivery that Newsweek recently announced, 'like all genuine art, it satisfies completely.'
"In the guitar god firmament, Thompson easily takes a place beside Eric Clapton and Jimmy Page. He has certainly been the most consistently imaginative English plank spanker of modern times." - Daily Mirror.
Richard's last appearance in the Big Room was filmed for the PBS series Sierra Center Stage and was one of the most popular shows we presented. Join us for what's sure to be a magical evening. This is a show for the whole family.
The Chris Cain Band & Eric Sardinas and Big Motor Two blues headliners in one big show!
A blues co-headline show to die for…..
To start the activities, the Chris Cain Band, a Chico and Big Room favorite. Close your eyes and you’ll swear you’re listening to a living blend of B.B., Albert and Freddie King. "Cain is a phenomenally gifted musician who has refined the pure match of strapping guitar and husky vocals. If his string attack doesn't devastate, his voice will." Blues Review. Nobody brings the Big Room dance floor alive like Chris. Closing the show and making his first Chico appearance will be Eric Sardinas and Big Motor. Eric Sardinas embodies the modern guitarslinger within the grand tradition of the maverick bluesman. His forte is a fired-up roadhouse style steeped in swampy slide licks and presented with AC/DC energy. The Hollywood resident is also physically imposing, dressed in stylish duds with a cowboy hat covering long black locks and a dobro he calls “El Pistola” slung across his shoulders. A tattoo spanning his entire back portrays a serpent wrapped around a resonator accompanied by the message “Respect Traditions.” If a movie studio remade the movie Crossroads, Eric Sardinas would likely play the devil as deftly as his frequent tour mate and label honcho Steve Vai did 22 years ago. And trust me, this time he would win! Both Chris and Eric are worth the price of admission alone! But together, get your tickets early as the dance floor will be open and we’ll be passing out towels.
Grace Potter and the Nocturnals A truly timeless, organic brand of American rock & roll.
JUST CONFIRMED:
Opening the show (out of Boston) will be Ezra Furman & The Harpoons!!
And now November……Can you say da blues…rock and roll?? .Time to dance. Time to rock. Time to escape into the month and put practical thoughts aside. Turn off the TV. Put down the newspaper. In that vein, I follow Tab Benoit with the just added national powerhouse Grace Potter and the Nocturnals. They’re a neoclassic rock & roll band fronted by Grace Potter, who critic Jeff Davidson says “is easily the most glamorous star to raise from the jam scene and her million-dollar smile makes her as desirable as any pop songstress. The fact that she’s amazingly talented…makes her even sexier.” They’ve exploded on the national scene with show stopping performance at most of the major festivals nationwide. Grace is being compared to Nora Jones and Lucinda Williams. The musical influence of predecessors, The Band, The Rolling Stones and Little Feat is clear. The raw passion reminds one of Neil Young & Crazy Horse. “One of the most soulful new bands around.” Bonnie Raitt. “This is an amazing band! Keep your eyes on this one.” Taj Mahal. The band features Grace on Hammond B3 organ and guitar, guitarist Scott Tournet, bassist Bryan Dondero and drummer Matt Burr.
Get your tickets early. Bring your dancing shoes. Dress for success. Bring your special friend who seriously needs a night out. See you there.
For additional information on Grace Potter and the Nocturnals, please visit
www.gracepotter.com
Tab Benoit Band He has become one of the most popular bluesman in the country
Last year saw Benoit, known around the blues world for his Cajun grit, nab a Grammy nomination and he was also named Contemporary Blues Male Artist of the Year and the B.B. King Entertainer of the Year by the Blues Foundation.
An environmental activist Benoit has made the preservation of the endangered delta wetlands his personal crusade. He serves as president of Voice of the Wetlands, an environmental organization he co-founded in 2003. Watch for him in August when he headlines with the VOC at The Democratic Convention in Denver. Tab and his band are known for rock’n, Cajun, funky, small club blues at it’s best. Bring your magic shoes because the dance floor is open.
For additional information on Tab Benoit Band, please visit
www.tabbenoit.com
Martin Taylor & Martin Simpson The Two Martin's Tour - Guitar playing at its best.
Phase two of my October presentation featuring the beauty of the acoustic guitar. This is the two Martin's show. This too is a "Bob's Pick". Martin Taylor is one of the most awesome solo guitar players in the history of the instrument. He's unbelievable - Pat Metheny. Award winning guitarist MARTIN TAYLOR has established a unique musical career as an internationally acclaimed musician, and his inimitable style has seen him recognized as the world's foremost exponent of solo jazz guitar playing. Although completely self taught, he has enjoyed a remarkable musical career spanning across four decades, and during that time has invented and developed a way of playing the guitar that is admired, and often imitated, by guitarists all over the world. As well as being a true guitar innovator, he is also a master concert performer, dazzling audiences with his solo shows, which combine virtuosity, emotion, humor, with a strong stage presence. From 1979 to 1990 he toured the world and recorded over 20 albums with the French jazz violin legend STEPHANE GRAPPELLI. Their album with Vassar Clements "Together At Last" won a Grammy Nomination in 1987. Monsieur Grappelli described him as "A great artist, rich in talent and elegance" In 2007 he received the prestigious BBC Radio 2 "Heart of Jazz" Award in recognition of his career in music, was presented with a Lifetime Achievement Award from the North Wales Jazz Guitar Festival for his "Contribution to Jazz Guitar Worldwide" and was voted Best Guitarist in the British Jazz Awards for a record eleventh time.
With respect to MARTIN SIMPSON, I’ll let others do the talking.
"Mesmerizing, devastating...the finest acoustic guitarist of our age."- BBC Thames Valley, Oxford, England.
"Martin is a great musician with depth and feeling rarely found in any art form. The album Smoke and Mirrors is a sixty minute trip to a beautiful ethereal place where the past, present and future melt into timelessness. What more could anyone ask for? I give it five stars." ¬ Steve Miller
Martin Simpson is a splendid guitarist, who attracts more hero worship than any musician on the British folk circuit." ¬ Colin Randall, London Daily Telegraph
Russ Barenberg & Bryan Sutton w/ Richard Smith A special evening of world-class acoustic guitar
During the 2nd half of October, I’ll be presenting two shows featuring the acoustic guitar. Between these two shows, we’ll be showcasing five of the worlds greatest acoustic guitarists performing in the wonderful environment of the Big Room. We begin with Russ Barenberg & Bryan Sutton. Russ Barenberg got his start in 1970 with the groundbreaking bluegrass band Country Cooking and since then has been a member of a variety of highly influential groups, most notably his collaboration from 1989 to 2001 in a trio with dobro master Jerry Douglas and bassist Edgar Meyer. Since his debut solo album in 1979 - including last year's collection When At Last - Russ has been widely recognized as one of the premier composers and arrangers in the emerging new acoustic scene. Last year he was nominated for a Grammy Award. Performing with Russ will be five-time IBMA Guitar Player of the Year, Bryan Sutton. Bryan picked up the guitar at the age of eight, initially immersed in rock and jazz playing, but soon captivated by the rhythms and melodies of bluegrass. After high school, Sutton joined Ricky Skaggs & Kentucky Thunder for their landmark Bluegrass Rules album. Since leaving Kentucky Thunder in 1999, he has become one of the most in-demand guitarists in bluegrass, both on the road and in the studio, earning him three Grammy Awards.
Opening the show will be the amazing Richard Smith, originally from England. Richard first met his hero, the “Godfather” of finger style guitar, Chet Atkins when he was only eleven and was invited by Chet to play with him on stage at Her Majesty’s Theatre in London in front of an audience of about a thousand. He played Chet’s arrangement of “Whispering,” and Chet played along with him. Then the audience went mad and Chet asked him to play another one. Before Richard could decide what to play, someone shouted “Little Rock Getaway.” and Richard played Chet’s arrangement of it while Chet, not playing this time, watched him in amazement playing to a stunned and appreciative audience. By the time he reached his early twenties, both Chet Atkins and Jerry Reed began to refer to Richard Smith as their “Hero” – and still do.
Here’s what a few of his fellow guitarists have to say about him:
“The most amazing guy I know on the guitar.”
“He can play anything I know, only better.”
Chet Atkins, CGP
Richard Smith owns many instruments, but his most prized is a guitar, which has written on it, “To my hero, Richard” -- signed
Jerry Reed and Chet Atkins.
"Guitar playing at its finest. Don’t miss this one.”
Doyle Dykes.
“If you like my playing, you should hear Richard Smith.”
Tommy Emmanuel, CGP
Needless to say, if you’re a fan of the acoustic guitar (and Tommy Emmanuel), don’t miss this show. I suggest you spend a quiet evening on youtube looking up these three players. What you'll find is simply amazing.
Ronnie Baker Brooks I've see the future of the blues and his name is Ronnie Baker Brooks.
Ronnie Baker Brooks brings the blues to the Big Room. If you were fortunate enough to see the Legendary Rhythm & Blues Review show last year featuring Tommy Castro, Deanna Bogart and Magic Dick, you’ll remember the man who closed the show that night, Ronnie Baker Brooks. Yep, that’s what Tommy Castro called RBB, the closer. No one wanted to follow him and if you were there, you know why. He quite simply rocked the house. Bring your dancing partner because it’s going to be one of those nights. Get your tickets early because RBB and his powerhouse band are going to boogie till the cows come home.
Darrell Scott Trio A true roots/American superstar.
Darrell Scott is an official “favorite son” of the Big Room. His two previous appearances have sold out and rightly so. “His playing is unreal. He’s just limitless in his approach and knowledge of instruments.” Sam Bush. "Darrell Scott's music is equal parts talent and heart, soul and grace, power and poetry, charm and wit, funk and grit... all in service of the better parts of humanity. Darrell Scott is scary good. Listen and learn. I'm a huge fan." Rodney Crowell. "He is so good. He is soooo good." Alison Krauss. Oh well, maybe one more....
“Darrell Scott is to Nashville what Richard Thompson is to Britain and what Paul Brady is to Ireland." Boston Globe.
He is truly one of my favorites.
For additional information on Darrell Scott Trio, please visit
www.darrellscott.com
Garaj Mahal What can I say, this is a "Bob's Pick." Jam jazz mixed with American funk!!
Featuring guitar and sitar virtuoso Fareed Haque, world-renowned bass master and educator Kai Eckhardt, gospel-inspired funky jazz keyboardist Eric Levy, and consistently in-the-pocket, natural-born drummer Alan Hertz, Garaj Mahal combines a century of musical experience to create a sound that's always new, freshly infused with a wide spectrum of musical expression, and always smoking hot. This amazing 4-piece band consists of:
Kai Eckhardt (bass)
Fareed Haque (guitars)
Alan Hertz (drums)
Eric Levy (keys)
Touring extensively since their formation in 2000, Garaj Mahal continues to earn critical acclaim and a growing fanbase thanks to their ability to deliver serious "shut-up-and-listen" grooves while simultaneously bringing the dance floor alive. Their collective musical experience allows them to constantly push the envelope of composition and improvisation. Garaj Mahal's sound – a convergence of jazz-style improvisation, mystical Middle-Eastern atmospheres, and danceable American funk - attracts music lovers from all parts of the musical spectrum and creates a profoundly unique experience. The band member's virtuosity is no surprise when you look at even a few of the amazing artists they've performed and/or recorded with over the years, including Dizzy Gillespie, John McLaughlin, Sting, Cassandra Wilson, Dave Holland, Bela Fleck, Chick Corea, Steve Smith, Zakir Hussain, Edgar Meyer, Les Claypool, Trey Anastasio, Umphrey's McGee, MMW, Steve Kimock, and Michael Manring. Their latest album was a winner in the 2007 Independent Music Awards, whose esteemed panel of judges include Peter Gabriel, Ozzy Osbourne, McCoy Tyner, Paul Oakenfold, Suzanne Vega, Cyndi Lauper, Marc Ribot, Buddy Guy, David Grisman, Bebel Gilberto, Bill Frisell , Rob Wasserman and FatBoy Slim. The album was selected as the Winner of the Album - Jam category from the largest number of entries the program has received to date, according to award organizers Music Resource Group. This is a one-of-a-kind musical experience. Join us. Yes, the dance floor is open. Dance like crazy or stand and stare. Your choice.
For additional information on Garaj Mahal, please visit
www.garajmahal.net
111rd Tyme Out and Evans /Lynch A can't miss show for those who enjoy pick'n and grinning.
As the saying goes, “The proof is in the pudding,” and there is no greater proof of the band’s status as one of the world’s top bluegrass groups than its seven consecutive IBMA (International Bluegrass Music Association) awards for ‘Vocal Group of the Year’ and Russell Moore’s two IBMA ‘Male Vocalist of the Year’ trophies. All in all, IIIrd Tyme Out has garnered over 50 industry awards, the last two being ‘Bluegrass Band of the Year’ and ‘Male Vocalist of the Year’ (Russell Moore), both from the Society for the Preservation of Bluegrass Music in America (SPBGMA). As a band, their vocals define them, and their a cappella renditions of many songs can barely be matched. Their superb instrumentation provides a strong lead and supportive contrast to the rich vocal blends. Writes bluegrass musician, songwriter, and journalist Chris Stuart in his perceptive liner note for Footprints, ““IIIrd Tyme Out has their own brand of bluegrass: unmatched quartets and trios, masterful lead singing, dead-on rhythm, tasteful fills, lyrical solos, and great songs. From stage left to right they are a complete band – perhaps the most complete band of the past two decades.”
Opening the show will be the excellent duo of Megan Lynch, the 6 time National Fiddle Champion and 6 time California State Champion (originally out of Redding) and Bill Evans, the Bay Area banjo master. They bring a wonderful combination of beautiful vocals, stunning musicianship and plus, they’re funny also.
Jackie is quickly making a national name for himself. He won the California Music awards "Best Roots/Blues Album" and his name is being mentioned in the same rarified air as Dylan, Springsteen, Van Morrison, Gram Parsons, Tom Waits and Mississippi John Hurt. Dave Siglin, Executive Director of the Ann Arbor Folk Festival says, "Only two new artists in the past have astounded me more than the acts they opened for. Jackie Greene is one and Nora Jones is the other." He has done national tours with Buddy Guy, B.B. King, Taj Mahal, Richard Thompson, John Hiatt and he's opened for Lyle Lovett. He's wowed audiences at the Newport Folk Festival, The Strawberry Music Festival, The San Francisco Blues Festival, The Doheny Heritage Music Festival (LA) and many many more. Jackie sold out his first appearance in the Big Room in a matter of hours. One of the most requested artists we've presented. The dance floor will be open so get your tickets early.
Marcia Ball Band Her last performance in the Big Room was nominated for a Grammy Award!!
The simple mention of a Louisiana or Texas roadhouse conjures up images of a crowded dancehall filled wall-to-wall with rabid music fans rocking to a hotter-than-hot band playing a smoldering blend of swampy R&B, jumping blues and heart-wrenching ballads. Pianist/vocalist/songwriter Marcia Ball brings that spirit to every concert she plays and every song she records. Her music is mixed with equal parts of simmering soul fervor and two-fisted piano pounding. Between her deeply emotive vocals and her incisive, often poignant songwriting, Ball is in a class by herself. Her groove-laden New Orleans R&B and driving Gulf Coast blues have made her a one-of-a-kind favorite of music fans all over the world. The Boston Herald says, “Piano pounding Marcia Ball plays masterful, red hot tracks from the Texas-Louisiana border. Her voice can break your heart with a ballad or break your back with a rocker.” The Austin Chronicle heralds her as “a class act whose soulful, horn-laden swamp pop and murderous honky-tonk make her a stellar example of musical artistry.” This show is a no-brainer. Get your tickets early.
For additional information on Marcia Ball Band, please visit
www.marciaball.com
Blue Highway "This is as close to a bluegrass super-group as there is on the road today." Billboard
Week two of Bluegrass July in the Big Room. Just when you thought it couldn't get any better, I present Blue Highway. So you ask, "what makes Blue Highway a super-group?" Can you say Rob Ickes? - Seven-time winner of the IBMA Dobro Performer of the Year (over you know who), Rob has quickly established himself as the ace session Dobroist in Nashville. Next comes Tim Stafford, a singer, songwriter, arranger and guitar player extraordinaire. Tim was, early on, a key player in the Grammy-winning team of Alison Krauss & Union Station. Along with fiddler and mandolinist Shawn Lane, one of the most affecting singers in the business, Wayne Taylor, a gifted songwriter and rock-solid bassist and Jason Burleson on banjo, this line-up presents an all-star bluegrass quintet. "Blue Highway is writing their own history in bluegrass: fresh, but as old as the hills." Ricky Skaggs. "Whether they're on record or putting on a show, it's tight and it's right!" Sam Bush. The Big Room is the only club in the U.S. presenting these two super-groups on consecutive weeks. Come see both and make up your own mind.
The Grascals Perhaps the most honored bluegrass band playing today!!
This is week one of my special "Two Weeks of World Class Bluegrass" in the Big Room. We start with the Grascals.
The Grascals are one of the most honored bands in bluegrass. The following are just a few of the accolades they’ve received in the last couple of years.
2008 SPBGMA Bluegrass Band of the Year
(Society for the Preservation of Bluegrass Music of America)
2008 SPBGMA Instrumental Band of the Year
2008 SPBGMA Mandolin Performer of the Year (Danny Roberts)
2007 Grammy nomination of Best Bluegrass Album
2007 IBMA Entertainer of the Year (International Bluegrass Music Association)
2007 SPBGMA Bluegrass Band of the Year
2007 SPGGMA Instrumental Group of the Year
2006 IBMA Entertainer of the Year
Well, you get the point. In all these categories the Grascals were competing against such
Big Room favorites as Del McCoury, Ricky Skaggs, Rhonda Vincent, Sam Bush, The Greencards and on and on. So, if you enjoyed the groups mentioned above, you’re going to love the Grascals. This will be their only “small club” appearance of the summer. As Dolly Parton says, “They are one of the best bluegrass bands I’ve ever heard. Their new CD is one of the greatest albums I’ve ever listened to…” I mean…if you can’t trust Dolly…Please, join us.
For additional information on The Grascals, please visit
www.grascals.com
Paul Thorn Band "The best kept secret in the music business." Kris Kristofferson.
He's one of those types that's hard to categorize. He does blues, roots, country, gospel, etc. but his writing is what he's most known for. His current album is #1 on the Americana charts. "The real deal comes along infrequently these days..word of a record this good will spread." S.F. Chronicle. Working in a furniture factory by day, he played out his musical passions by night. While performing at a Tupelo pizza joint, Paul Thorn was discovered by the legendary manager Miles Copeland. Thorn drew an opening slot for Sting and has subsequently toured with other heavy-hitters including Mark Knopfler, Jeff Beck, John Hiatt, Richard Thompson, Robert Cray, Marianne Faithfull, and John Prine. He's toured the United States, Canada and the UK performing in such noted venues as The Royal Albert Hall in the UK, The Greek Theater and Universal Amphitheater in Los Angeles and Toronto's Massey Hall. Everywhere he performs, he draws an immediate, enthusiastic response and a lineup of fans a mile long wanting to meet him and to get a piece of Thorn's gutsy music for themselves. Thorn writes and performs songs taken from life - good times, bad times, and everything in between. His songs are often constructed on the universal themes of love, loss, and yearning. But far from ever sounding commonplace, Thorn is able to weave in a slightly loopy Southern sense of the unexpected that draws you in and never lets go. This is Southern soul/rock at it's best and yes, the dance floor is open.
For additional information on Paul Thorn Band, please visit
www.paulthorn.com
NewmanAmiYumi reunion/ Anniversary Ale Party "The Chico jazz event of the summer..."
It's time to PARTY IN THE PUB!!
One of Chico's favorite jazz trios is back together for this very special occasion! Voted "Best Jazz Group" at the 2007 CAMMIES, NewmanAmiYumi features world-class tenor sax man Michael Newman, hot off the plane from nine months in Southampton, England; amazing keyboardist Shigemi Minetaka, recently returned home to Chico from nine months in British Columbia and Japan; and versatile upright bassist Christine LaPado (everything from Pub Scouts to jazz!). Newman was voted "Critics' Choice" for "Best Instrumentalist" at the 2007 CAMMIES, Minetaka was "Critics' Choice" for "Best Keyboardist" at the 2006 CAMMIES, and LaPado was voted "Critics' Choice" for "Best Bassist" at the 2006 CAMMIES. Joining them will be stellar go-to drummer Lew Langworthy and notorious guitar slinger Larry Peterson (Spark 'n' Cinder, Groovediggers). Look for cameo appearances from very special guests as well.
This is a not-to-be-missed event showcasing the unique talents of Chico's finest jazz musicians, the joys of Anniversary Ale, and a special menu created for this event.
Tickets will be $5 and they'll be available only at the door beginning at 6PM. Music to start at 7PM. Limited seating.
Sunday, June 29, 2008
Todd Snider Todd Snider is one of today's most admired and intriguing singer-songwriters.
Todd Snider writes great songs and also is great performer. He totally connects with every audience. Hardest act to follow since Steve Goodman." --John Prine.
Todd Snider (has) the heart and humor of John Prine, the wild unpredictability of Roger Miller, and a fresh, original spirit and freedom of imagination that's absolutely his own." --Kris Kristofferson. Snider's sharp lyrics, blend of blues, folk-rock and country-rock mixed with his stellar story- telling, personality and charisma has won him loyal legions of fans who will travel past state lines to see his remarkable live performances; where seeing is believing that Todd Snider is one of today's most admired and intriguing singer-songwriters. Described as alternately funny and sad, edgy and easy-going, troubadour Todd Snider brings his unique perspective on life to The Big Room stage. Expect such topics as diverse as love, loss, prostitution, crime and manual labor. In presenting Todd, I continue in my quest to present to you the best singer/songwriters the world has to offer.
For additional information on Todd Snider, please visit
www.toddsnider.net
The Mother Truckers Good time bar rock & roll, Austin style.
The Mother Truckers are a kick-ass rock 'n' roll band from Austin, Texas. Their music is high-octane Americana, blending hard hitting electric guitars with soaring vocals and irreverent lyrics. They take the Texas mix of Country, Blues and Rock to a higher place with their creative songwriting and high energy live performances. During the South by South West Music Conference, The Mother Truckers were named “The Best Roots Rock Band”. Also, the band was in the Top Ten in five other categories including: Band of the Year, Best New Band, Best Country Band, Best Electric Guitarist, and Best Female Vocals. Bring your dancing shoes cause the dance floor is open. Get your tickets early.
Tom Rush "One of my heroes and also one of my main influences." James Taylor
"... his voice is outstandingly versatile; his guitar playing is sheer genius; his sense of humor side splitting ..." Trina E. Kingsbury MARTHA'S VINEYARD TIMES.
Tom Rush is a gifted musician and performer, whose shows offer a musical celebration...a journey into the tradition and spectrum of what music has been, can be, and will become. His distinctive guitar style, wry humor and warm, expressive voice have made him both a legend and a lure to audiences around the world. His shows are filled with the rib-aching laughter of terrific story-telling, the sweet melancholy of ballads and the passion of gritty blues.
For the uninitiated, Rush helped shape the folk revival of the 1960s and its renaissance in the '80s and '90s. His early recordings introduced the world to the work of Joni Mitchell, Jackson Browne and James Taylor. According to Rolling Stone, Rush's album The Circle Game, released in 1968, ushered in the singer/songwriter era. "The music of Tom Rush has provided a soundtrack to my life. I'm very proud to present this founding father of American folk music." Bob Littell. Big Room Guy.
For additional information on Tom Rush, please visit
www.tomrush.com
Antsy McClain & The Trailer Park Troubadours Critically-acclaimed mix of humor and musicianship!
Antsy McClain is a songwriter, story-teller and entertainer who sings about life in an American trailer park. His band, The Trailer Park Troubadours, are a skilled assortment of musicians who play in the rootsy, rock and roll tradition of their hard-working, blue collar forefathers. Their live shows are a unique, critically-acclaimed mix of masterful musicianship and self-deprecating humor for all ages. The dance floor is open and be sure to bring your sense of humor. If you haven't seen the Troubs before, don't miss this totally one-of-a-kind musical and cultural event.
For additional information on Antsy McClain & The Trailer Park Troubadours, please visit
www.unhitched.com
The New Orleans All-Stars The N.O. All-Stars featuring George Porter, Cyril Neville, Henry Butler & Raymond Weber
The New Orleans All-stars bring the funk to the Big Room and the dance floor is wide open.
Featuring four funk monsters, this A-team of New Orleans musicians is guaranteed to rock the house. Let’s start with Cyril Neville on percussion, (yes, and a member of the legendary Neville Brothers). His request is that everyone “Funkify yo’ life.” Sounds good to me. Next, we have George Porter on bass. Few bass players in the history of modern New Orleans music are as storied as George Porter Jr. During the course of a career spanning four decades, Porter has not only made a deep impression with his work in the Meters, but he’s notched sessions with artists as diverse as Paul McCartney, Jimmy Buffett, David Byrne, Patti LaBelle, Robbie Robertson and Tori Amos. George is the premier New Orleans bass player. On piano is Henry “Wild Child” Butler. Dr. John says of Henry, “He is the pride of New Orleans and a visionistical down home cat and a hellified piano plunker to boot…He plays piano like Art Tatum, but when he starts singing he sounds like Paul Robeson.” New Music Report says, “He is arguably the greatest living proponent of the classic New Orleans piano tradition, playing an amalgam of boogie-woogie, jazz, blues and classical in the lineage of Professor Longhair.” Last but not least is Raymond Weber on drums. With George on bass and Raymond on drums, the bottom end is seriously covered. This is a one time, one of a kind show. Get your tickets early cause when they're gone, they're gone.
The Greencards This is roots/Americana music at its best.
Last time they were here I started the promo this way....
First line, first paragraph. This is a Bob’s pick. Plain and simple. Remember the Avett Brothers. The Bills and The Mammals. The Duhks. And a long ways back, Tommy Emmanuel. Well, here we go again. I’ve been a fan of The Greencards since I first heard them and when I finally got a chance to see/hear them in person (Father’s Day Bluegrass Festival), game over man, game over. The Greencards are an acoustic music phenomenon that’s played around the world, headlined major festivals, won awards and toured with Bob Dylan and Willie Nelson. The trio of Carol Young (bass, vocals), mandolin ace and multi-instrumentalist Kym Warner and fiddler Eamon McLoughlin have deep roots in Americana music – even though two are Australians and one is a Brit. The Greencards have been named “Best New Band” at the Austin Music Awards and have won “Best New Emerging Talent” at Nashville’s Americana Music Awards. The band features South London native Eamon McLoughlin, a classically trained violinist through London’s Royal School of Music. He’s recorded with Jimmie Dale Gilmore, Peter Rowan, Tony Rice, Robert Earl Keen, Alejandro Escovedo and Kelly Willis. On bass and lead vocals is Carol Young. She was raised in Coff’s Harbous, New South Wales and she’s been nominated for “Best Female Vocalist” and “Best New Talent” by the Country Music Association of Australia. Carol also enjoyed two #1 Australian singles which landed her the “Australian Country Artist of the Year” award. Kym Warner, from South Australia’s capitol Adelaide, was four-time National Mandolin Champion of Australia. His “Mando on the Mainland” was nominated for “Instrumental of the Year" by the CMAA. Trust me when I say that the first thing you’ll think when you see/hear Kym play is Chris Thile. (sorry Kym). This band is rooted in bluegrass music (from Bill Monroe to New Grass Revival) but shadings from influences as far-flung as Tom Petty, The Beatles and Gillian Welch- just to mention a few – crop up throughout their unique transcontinental blend. This show sold out last time they played here and it was certainly one of the "shows of the year" in 2007." Come see why and get your tickets early since everyone who came last time will be coming back and bringing friends.
Roy Rogers & The Delta Rhythm Kings "The guy is frightening." Bonnie Raitt
Roy and the boys are back. A favorite son of the brewery, it was their electrifying performance on our very first Sierra Center Stage PBS show that set the musical tone for our entire series. “Many guitarists dabble in slide guitar but the number of modern masters can probably be counted on one hand. Roy Rogers is surely one of them.” Guitar Player Magazine. “He absolutely shredded that crowd at the New Orleans Jazz Festival, and me too. The guy is frightening.” Bonnie Raitt. So said one great slide guitarist about another, the shredder being Roy Rogers, winner of the W.C. Handy Best Blues Guitarist Award. Yet Roy is not a strict Delta blues traditionalist, but a creative practitioner of rock, R&B, funk and soul. “Roy plays like a man who wants to take over the world. He displays the kind of guitar fireworks that get you making ooh-damn faces and contemplating a soul mortgage at the cross-roads.” Damon Orion. Roy and the Delta’s are a sure-fire sellout as they are guaranteed to keeping the dance floor packed from opening notes till da lights come on.
For additional information on Roy Rogers & The Delta Rhythm Kings, please visit
www.roy-rogers.com
Curtis Salgado Band Curtis is a harp play'n soul singing monster!!
I’m proud to present Curtis Salgado, a true soul man. His heartfelt approach to the music has won him lead singer positions in such bands as Robert Cray, Roomful of Blues and Santana. Check this out!!! The late John Belushi was so inspired by Curtis that he developed his Blues Brother character for Saturday Night Live after him. Belushi dedicated the first Blues Brothers album to Curtis. His album Soul Activated received a WC Handy Blues Award nomination for “Soul Blues Album of the Year.” Curtis is a harp play’n soul singing monster. Curtis’s last appearance was in 2006 and his powerhouse six piece band brought down the house. And yes, the dance floor is open.
For additional information on Curtis Salgado Band, please visit
www.curtissalgado.com
The Avett Brothers Back by popular demand. Perhaps the most talked about show in 2007.
This is what I wrote last time The Avett Brothers were here. It was a Bob's Pick and it sold out. Since everyone who was there that night will try and return (and bring a friend), this will be one hot ticket. So, here's what I wrote last time. This is another one of my “wait till you get a load of these guys” presentations. To give you an idea of their fame on the East Coast, “An Evening with: The Avett Brothers on June 16 at the North Carolina Museum of Art in Raleigh N.C. SOLD OUT 2700 tickets in advance. On May 11th of this year they appeared on Late Night with Conan O’Brien. They’ve been nominated this year for Album of the Year (Emotionalism) going against Bob Dylan, Lucinda Williams and Patty Griffin. (Good company) and Group of the Year, going against The Duhks, The Hacienda Brothers and Old Crow Medicine Show. By melding their similar histories built on folk, country, punk, jazz and gospel, the Avett Brothers – Scott Avett (vocals, banjo, kick-drum), Seth Avett (vocals, guitar, high-hat) and Bob Crawford (double bass) – are taking roots music in a completely new direction. The Brothers signature intensity (“the unhinged passion of two Jack Whites” – The Mercury News) has quickly launched the band from chicken-wire roadhouses to sold-out tours of concert halls and high profile appearances at Bonnaroo, MerleFest, Bumbershoot the Philadelphia Folk Festival and just two weeks ago, the Telluride Bluegrass Festival where, according to all reports, they were the hit of the festival. Come see what all the talk was about. Limit 6 tickets per person please.
Bill Kirchen Known as the "King of Dieselbilly" and "A Titan of the Telecaster"
Grammy nominated guitarist, singer and songwriter Bill Kirchen is one of the fortunate few who can step on any stage, play those trademark licks which drove the seminal Commander Cody classic Hot Rod Lincoln into the Top Ten nationwide, and elicit instant recognition for a career that’s spanned over 30 years and includes performances with names like Nick Lowe, Emmylou Harris, Doug Sahm, Elvis Costello and Danny Gatton. Named "A Titan of the Telecaster" by Guitar Player Magazine, he celebrates an American musical tradition where country music draws upon its origins in blues and bluegrass, and in the Western swing of Texas and California honky tonks. An apt description of Bills singing, songwriting and guitar playing skill is provided in this quote from Nick Lowe: "He's like a devastating culmination of the elegant and funky... a really sensational musician, with enormous depth."
A winner of multiple Wammies over the years, In 2002 Bill Kirchen was one of three artists inducted into the Washington Area Music Association Hall of Fame along with Dave Grohl (Foo Fighters, Nirvana)and John Phillip Sousa. A Kirchen performance recalls a half century of guitar legends from C&W virtuosos like Merle Travis, Joe Maphis and Grady Martin to rock legends like Scotty Moore, James Burton, Duane Eddy, all the way to Jimi Hendrix and extends their brilliance into the present. You say you want to dance? Bill and his band, Too Much Fun, are guaranteed to put forth an evening of rock 'n' roll, honky-tonk, soul, rockabilly, Western swing, country, blues, boogie-woogie and more. Join us for an evening dancing in the Big Room Roadhouse!!
For additional information on Bill Kirchen, please visit
www.billkirchen.com
Hot Buttered Rum & The Waybacks Two national roots/Americana headliners together for one big show.
Possessed of dazzling instrumental chops and an absolute mastery of acoustic musical styles, The Waybacks are an eclectic acoustic quartet, steeped in a wide array of Americana idioms. Based in the San Francisco Bay Area, The Waybacks are James Nash, Warren Hood, Chuck Hamilton, and Joe Kyle Jr. Fleet-fingered and muddy-booted, they can play like nobody's business. They have 4 CDs out and have appeared all over the country including the 2007 Merle Fest. " … one way cool band ... tight, crisp, sophisticated music." - Sing Out! Magazine.
“Few things rejuvenate the soul like a warm fireside drink after an exhausting day in the snow. Hot Buttered Rum has that effect. Their original songs are instantly familiar and inviting, and their easygoing versions of timeless classics (the Beatles, Hank Williams) belie the intricacy of the arrangements.” –San Francisco Chronicle. Hot Buttered Rum, one of the hardest-working and fastest-rising stars in the musical firmament, has become, over the last five years, a group that is infinitely greater than the sum of its parts. It began with a core of five uniquely talented musicians, writing and singing songs on the mountaintops and city streets of Northern California; five musicians who, on the night they realized they loved playing together too much to ever stop, were sipping a warm buttery drink from which the group derived its name. Often described as a rock band playing bluegrass instruments, the band melds blues, folks, bluegrass, jazz, and rock, and the members’ varying degrees of classical training lead them to invest heavily in group composition. The widespread appeal of HBR’s music stems not only from the band’s musical versatility and prolific songwriting, but also from the magnetic chemistry the group creates onstage together. It is this chemistry that is propelling the band to ever greater success. Two national headliners for the price of one.
Greg Brown Come out to see a living legend perform songs of life, love, and our struggles with both.
"After more than 20 years of singing and songwriting, Brown continues to write songs that sweetly draw attention to life's pleasant subtleties, put a humorous spin on human idiosyncrasies, and hold us accountable for our misdeeds in a way that can elicit a tear or a hearty laugh from even the most contemptuous of cynics." Times Argus.
Brown's songwriting has been lauded by many, and his songs have been performed by Willie Nelson, Carlos Santana, Michael Johnson, Shawn Colvin, and Mary Chapin Carpenter. He has also recorded more than a dozen albums, including his 1986 release, Songs of Innocence and of Experience, when he put aside his own songwriting to set poems of William Blake to music. One Big Town, recorded in 1989, earned Brown three and a half stars in Rolling Stone, chart-topping status in AAA and The Gavin Report's Americana rankings and Brown's first Indie Award from NAIRD (National Association of Independent Record Distributors). The Poet Game, his 1994 CD, received another Indie award from NAIRD. His critically acclaimed 1996 release, Further In, was a finalist for the same award. Rolling Stone's four-star review of Further In called Brown "a wickedly sharp observer of the human condition." 1997's Slant 6 Mind (Red House Records) earned Brown his second Grammy nomination.
He's performed on radio with Garrison Keillor's Prairie Home Companion, started his own record label (Red House), and began releasing albums in the 1980s. His dozen records have netted Brown two Grammy nominations, two Indie awards from NAIRD (National Association of Independent Record Distributors), and critical acclaim aplenty. A very socially conscious individual, Brown has played numerous benefit shows through the years. Once again, get your tickets early.
For additional information on Greg Brown, please visit
www.gregbrown.org
PUNCH BROTHERS featuring CHRIS THILE Punch Brothers featuring Chris Thile are baaaack!!
Chris Thile, best known as the wildly inventive mandolin virtuoso and vocalist for the Grammy-winning acoustic trio, Nickel Creek, is widely regarded as the outstanding mandolin player of his generation. With the hiatus of Nickel Creek, Thile has started an exciting new band, The Punch Brothers featuring Chris Thile, which features a group of the most cutting edge talents performing today. Guitarist Chris Eldridge was a founding member of the Infamous Stringdusters and occasionally sits in with his dad Ben’s band, The Seldom Scene; bassist Greg Garrison has played with trumpeter Ron Miles and Leftover Salmon—along with banjo player Noam Pikelny. Pikelny has performed and recorded as a solo artist and has collaborated with acoustic music heavyweights John Cowan and Tony Trischka. Violinist Gabe Witcher, a life-long friend of Thile’s, is a sought-after session man whose fiddle-playing has been featured on the soundtrack of films ranging from Toy Story to Brokeback Mountain. Witcher also has recorded with a range of artists from Willie Nelson to Beck to Randy Newman and played in dobro master Jerry Douglas’ band for six years.
The band members collectively are part of a new generation of bluegrass-oriented instrumentalists who are at home playing just about anything. They have classical training, and know how to improvise as well. They are writing and recording music that gives them the chance to move in many different musical directions, and the results are truly groundbreaking. The band will be featuring new music from their first album for Nonesuch Records due to be released in Feb of 2008. There last appearance was one of the most talked about shows of 2007. Once again, get your tickets early.
The Duhks The Duhks return to the Big Room by popular demand!
For four years The Duhks, the band of five skilled, high-energy, tattooed twenty-somethings from Winnipeg, Manitoba, has been riveting audiences and winning staunch fans across North America and around the world.
Since the release of their self-titled, Bela Fleck-produced album in 2005 and the consequent re-release of their Canadian debut, Your Daughters and Your Sons, as well as Migrations (produced by Tim O’Brien, co-produced by Grammy award-winning engineer and producer Gary Paczosa), the band has won admirers as diverse as David Crosby, Dolly Parton and Doc Watson. This is not surprising, given their Duhks-alone blend of soul, gospel, North American folk, Brazilian samba, old time country string band, zydeco, and Irish dance music, and the attack they bring to these interwoven acoustic styles—which might as well be called sheer rock and roll. This is truly one of the most entertaining bands I've ever presented. They sold out last time, so...get your tickets early and Happy New Year!
For additional information on The Duhks, please visit
www.duhks.com
Harmonica Blow Out!! Five national headliners in one big show!!
Mark Hummel & The Blues Survivors featuring Rusty Zinn on guitar are at it again. Returning for the fifth consecutive year, Mark Hummel once again brings an once-in-a-lifetime line-up of national and world renowned headliners to the Big Room.
Let's start with John Mayall. Yes, that John Mayall. "The Godfather of British Blues." The founder of the English super group, The Bluesbreakers, John played with and nurtured such greats as Eric Clapton, Jack Bruce, Peter Green, John McVie, Mich Taylor and so on and on. Don't miss this chance to see a true legend of the blues. Also on the bill is Kenny Neal. A Louisiana blues superstar, Kenny is a monster vocalist as well as a master of both the harp and the guitar. In the past, he's headlined his own show here at Sierra Nevada. Next, Greg "Fingers" Taylor, a member of Jimmy Buffett's Coral Reefer Band. Another "worth the price of admission alone" kind of player. With appearances by the swamp blues harmonica master, Lazy Lester and Mark Hummel, who in my estimation, is one of the premier harmonica cats performing today, this is truly a can’t miss evening for a lover of da blues. Five, count them, five for the price of one. Tickets go on sale just before Christmas so....give the blues for Christmas to the one you love. This is an all age’s event so bring the whole family.
John McCutcheon Our favorite son makes his annual January visit to the Big Room.
Did I mention that I love January? January's the month that John returns for his annual visit to the Big Room.
John's shows sell out quickly and he's become one of the most popular performers I've ever presented. From a series of chance beginnings John McCutcheon has become what one Australian paper called “the most overwhelming folk performer in the English language.” His mastery of American folk music and instruments, complemented by “storytelling that has the richness of fine literature” (Washington Post) weave intimate, insightful and often hilarious canvasses on which McCutcheon draws his vision of Americana. His songwriting, rich in detail and broad in scope, have created a catalog of hundreds of songs covered by performers throughout the world. His classic "Christmas in the Trenches" has been repeatedly cited as “the greatest anti-war song ever written” and is the subject of an annual, coast-to-coast special on CBC.
His concerts are international sold-out hits. Pravda noted “McCutcheon … is the most versatile and compelling performer this reviewer has ever seen”… Critics reserve their most lavish praise for his mastery of the rare and beautiful hammer dulcimer, an instrument on which he is an undisputed world master. His story telling style has been compared to Will Rogers and Garrison Keillor. This is an event for the whole family. When I see John perform, I fell better for days afterward. Give the gift of music to your whole family for Christmas. Come experience John McCutcheon. Tickets go on sale Wednesday December 12th in the Pub. Get them early as his appearances ALWAYS sell out.
For additional information on John McCutcheon, please visit
www.folkmusic.com
The Tim O'Brien Band Tim won the 2006 Grammy Award for Best Traditional Folk Album!!
I love January because that's the time of year Tim O'Brien comes to town. And as always, he's bringing some of the most respected roots musicians with him. Tim has been awarded such honors as Entertainer of the Year and Male Vocalist of the Year by the International Bluegrass Association. His album, Fiddler's Green won the GRAMMY AWARD for Best Traditional Folk Album! Appearing with Tim is monster fiddler Casey Driessen. Casey has recorded and toured with Darrell Scott, Bela Fleck, Lee Ann Womack and Steve Earle. He is generally considered the hottest new fiddler in bluegrass. Appearing on banjo and guitar is Danny Barnes, the former leader of the Austin, Texas trio, The Bad Livers. Casey and Danny are worth the price of admission alone. Holding down the bottom end is Dennis Crouch on bass. Crouch has played or recorded with such artists as Dolly Parton, Jerry Reed, Steve Earle and Marty Stuart. Tickets go on sale Wednesday December 5th at 10 AM in the pub. Remember, this is an all ages show and nothing is more appreciated on Christmas morn than the gift of live music.
New Year's Eve in The Big Room at Sierra Nevada N.Y.E. with The Shana Morrison Band & The Volker Strifler Band.
The Big Room. New Year’s Eve. Gourmet dinner. 3 big bands. Way too much fun.
Limited tickets. Reserved seating only. Hats, horns, balloons. Did I say balloons?
One stop for the whole package. A complete filet mignon dinner (and other wonderful options) with all the trimmings you’ve come to expect from the Big Room. Begins with an array of tasty appetizers and salads and finishes with one of our killer desserts. We’ll also provide complimentary champagne just before midnight and great jazz to dine by.
Then…..it’s time to dance. First up, the Shana Morrison Band (yes, Van Morrison’s daughter). Shana’s musical style has been called pop with a side of blues and a side of rock. She’s also been known to include other ingredients, like country, R&B and jazz into the mix. What always remains the same is Shana’s unique and wide-ranging voice.
She is guaranteed to get the evening off and running. Closing the show will be the Big Room favorite The Volker Strifler Band. Volker has appeared numerous times in the Big Room and no matter what configuration he’s with…The Robben Ford Band, The Ford Brothers Band or his own Volker Strifler Band, he always steals the show. Always.
Doors will open at 7 PM and dinner will be served until 9 PM. We will feature easy listening jazz during dinner and then The Shana Morrison Band and the Volker Strifler Band take the stage beginning at 9:15 to play for your dancing pleasure till it’s time to take it on home. Tickets are reserved-seat only and must be purchased upstairs in the mezzanine above the gift shop (so you can actually choose your seats in advance.) Tickets will go on sale Tuesday December 4th at 10 AM and I expect (as usual) an immediate sellout. Only 300 tickets will be sold for this event so please be organized. If there are any tickets left after Tuesday the 4th, the remaining tickets will go on sale at 10 AM on Wednesday the 5th of December in the gift shop. Tickets for the entire New Year’s Eve package are $75. Hey people, I'm talk'n the whole nine yards here. Hats, horns, midnight balloon drop (we’ve got it down now) and a party worthy of saying goodbye to 2007. No one says Happy New Year like Sierra Nevada.
Celebration 2007 Party w/ Mossy Creek Celebration Ale 2007 and the Mossy Creek CD release party.
Better late than never. Plus, any reason to Party in the Pub works for me. Tis the season to celebrate our classic Celebration Ale 2007. Without question, our best ever. As to the evening’s entertainment, we’re proud to feature Mossy Creek, voted Chico’s band of the year in 2006. This is an explosive seven piece roots/Americana band featuring the vocal chops of Erin Haley and the award winning fiddler, Christine Hogan. Also featured are Chico musical legends Kim Gimbal on mandolin and Pat Haley on banjo. Rounding out the Creeksters are Dean Mott on guitar and Dobro, Matt Christensen on bass and Bob Littell on harmonica. This seven piece band has twice traveled to Nashville to perform at the International Bluegrass Music Association awards convention and while there had the privilege of being asked to perform live on WDVX in Knoxville. This is the premier bluegrass station on the east coast and the show, Blue Plate Special, is known for presenting the biggest names in bluegrass. Come join us for a wonderful evening of good food, good beer, good people and good music. This will also be an opportunity to purchase Mossy Creek’s latest CD, Knee Deep in Mossy Creek. Tickets go on sale for $5 at the door at 6 PM and the Music starts at 7 PM. We’ll feature a special Monday night Pub menu and please be aware that the seating is limited so getting in line prior to six is suggested. This is an all ages show.
Tainted Love A "plain and simple" good time dance event.
This will be the last “open to the public” musical event in the Big Room for 2007 (not counting New Year’s Eve). So, I’ve decided just to turn it lose and have a good old fashioned dance fest. No pretence, no hidden agenda, no “let’s keep it quiet” happening this night. Time to unleash Tainted Love. I’m talking the number one 80’s, let the good times roll; dance till you’re stupid, party band. Musical, visual……come on people. You know all the words. Get your groups together. Put on your dancing shoes. De-box your leopard skin pill box hat. Be organized because this will be one hot ticket. Say good-bye early to 2007, Big Room style. Don't know about you, but on November 19th, I just might be ready to "walk like an Egyptian." Join me.
For additional information on Tainted Love, please visit
www.taintedlove.com
Houston Jones & The Infamous Stringdusters An evening of Roots/Americana musical mayhem.
Oh, this one should be fun. Do you like hot pick’n and incredible harmonies? Well, once again, I’m presenting two headliners for the price of one. Back in March, Houston Jones opened the show for a now to be un-named national headliner making their first appearance in the Big Room. If you were there, you know what happened. They so stole the show that I almost had to call the police. It was criminal. Well, by popular demand, Houston Jones is back. Here’s what Steve Baker of the legendary Freight & Salvage club has to say. “Audience members are advised to bring along personal fire extinguishers as Houston Jones ignites the evening with their sizzling, eclectic mixture of originals and original interpretations of grassroots Americana music.” Sharing the twin-bill will be The Infamous Stringdusters. These guys are making big time national waves. Their new CD, Fork in the Road (Sugar Hill), was nominated for International Bluegrass Music Association awards in three separate categories. Deeply rooted in tradition yet more than happy to stretch out in jam band-style improvisation, this band does an excellent job of balancing inspiration with discipline, and creativity with experience. Andy Hall (dobro), Chris Pandolfi (banjo), Jeremy Garrett (fiddle), Jesse Cobb (mandolin), Travis Book (upright bass), and Andy Falco (guitar) offer razor-sharp vocals, superb instrumental abilities, and a repertoire of well-crafted original songs. These guys have made it a habit of just simply killing crowds. Bob Brown (Huey Lewis’s manager) says, “As good as any singing and picking I’ve heard in my thirty years in the music business!! Do your friends a favor and turn them on to this band.” Once again, the kind of acoustic show the Big Room was made for. Get your tickets early. $20
This just in.
For Immediate Release, October 5, 2007
Infamous Stringdusters Win Three International Bluegrass Music Awards:
Honored for Best Song, Best Album, and as Emerging Artists of the Year.
Sugar Hill Records recording artists The Infamous Stringdusters were awarded three times at last night’s 2007 International Bluegrass Music Awards. The band took home trophies for Best Song (“Fork In The Road” – written by John Pennell and Chris Jones), Emerging Artists of the Year, and Best Album (a tie with bluegrass stalwart JD Crowe). This phenomenal turn of events marks them as only the second band in the history of the awards program to win both Emerging Artist and Album of the Year in the same year.
How cool is that!!! Don't miss this show.
Legendary Rhythm & Blues Revue w/ Tommy Castro Featuring four superstars of the blues backed by the Tommy Castro Band.
You say you want da blues. Hours and hours of blues. Well, join us for the Legendary Rhythm & Blues Revue featuring The Tommy Castro Band. Worth the price of admission alone, The Tommy Castro Band has been called the future of the blues. His two previous appearances here in the Big Room have been total sellout dancing extravaganzas. Also on the bill is the legendary Magic Dick of J. Geils Band fame. Maybe the first great rock and roll harp player, he’s one on the most copied players ever. Also appearing is the crown price of Chicago Blues, Ronnie Baker Brooks. He too is worth the price of admission alone. He’s been nominated in the Chicago Music Awards in the “Best Blues Album/CD” category. He’s also been nominated as the “Best Blues Entertainer” category. And RBB has been nominated for a 2007 Blues Music Award in the “Contemporary Blues Male Artist of the Year” category!! And, his performance at the W.C. Handy Blues Festival will be featured on the PBS television show, “Jubilee.” Last and certainly not least is Deanna Bogart, a killer powerhouse piano and sax monster. “With such strong performers as Robert Cray and Etta James on last weekend’s bill (Monterey Bay Blues Festival) the real mind-blowers and most memorable set came for Deanna Bogart.” John Detro, Pacific Grove Monarch.
Each one of these blues superstars will take their turn playing with the Tommy Castro Band. This is the Big Room Blues Event of the Year. Join us and get your tickets early.
And, needless to say, the dance floor is open!
The Greencards This is roots/Americana music at its best.
First line, first paragraph. This is a Bob’s pick. Plain and simple. Remember the Avett Brothers. The Bills and The Mammals. The Duhks. And a long ways back, Tommy Emmanuel. Well, here we go again. I’ve been a fan of The Greencards since I first heard them and when I finally got a chance to see/hear them in person (Father’s Day Bluegrass Festival), game over man, game over. The Greencards are an acoustic music phenomenon that’s played around the world, headlined major festivals, won awards and toured with Bob Dylan and Willie Nelson. The trio of Carol Young (bass, vocals), mandolin ace and multi-instrumentalist Kym Warner and fiddler Eamon McLoughlin have deep roots in Americana music – even though two are Australians and one is a Brit.
The Greencards have been named “Best New Band” at the Austin Music Awards and have won “Best New Emerging Talent” at Nashville’s Americana Music Awards.
The band features South London native Eamon McLoughlin, a classically trained violinist through London’s Royal School of Music. He’s recorded with Jimmie Dale Gilmore, Peter Rowan, Tony Rice, Robert Earl Keen, Alejandro Escovedo and Kelly Willis. On bass and lead vocals is Carol Young. She was raised in Coff’s Harbous, New South Wales and she’s been nominated for “Best Female Vocalist” and “Best New Talent” by the Country Music Association of Australia. Carol also enjoyed two #1 Australian singles which landed her the “Australian Country Artist of the Year” award.
Kym Warner, from South Australia’s capitol Adelaide, was four-time National Mandolin Champion of Australia. His “Mando on the Mainland” was nominated for “Instrumental of the Year" by the CMAA. Trust me when I say that the first thing you’ll think when you see/hear Kym play is Chris Thile. (sorry Kym). This band is rooted in bluegrass music (from Bill Monroe to New Grass Revival) but shadings from influences as far-flung as Tom Petty, The Beatles and Gillian Welch- just to mention a few – crop up throughout their unique transcontinental blend. Remember, this is a Bob’s pick and seriously, when have I ever steered you wrong.
Tommy Emmanuel Tommy Emmanuel with special guest Bluehouse.
For three big nights in October, (Monday 10/8, Tuesday 10/9 and Wednesday 10/10) the Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. is proud to present Australian guitar legend Tommy Emmanuel with special guest Bluehouse. Tommy has chosen Sierra Nevada to help him create the definitive “live” Tommy DVD. We will be filming all three nights in hi-def and we invite all of you to come and be part of the show. Those same three evenings, we will also be creating a live DVD for the fabulous opening act Bluehouse. Tickets will go on sale Wednesday September 5th at 9AM in the Pub or by phone at 530-345-2739. We will be selling a maximum of six (6) tickets per person. Even though we’ll be presenting Tommy for three nights, I expect tickets to go quickly. I wish you’all luck.
Iris Dement One of the most celebrated coutry-folk artists performing today.
This is a make-up show replacing her show scheduled for June that had to be cancelled at the last minute due to health reasons. That June show sold out quickly, so for those of you who couldn't get tickets last time, this is a rare second chance.
One of the most celebrated country-folk performers of her day, singer/songwriter Iris Dement was born on January 5, 1961, in rural Paragould, AR, the youngest of 14 children. At the age of three, her devoutly religious family moved to California, where she grew up singing gospel music; during her teenaged years, however, she was first exposed to country, folk, and R&B, drawing influence from Loretta Lynn, Johnny Cash, Bob Dylan, and Joni Mitchell. Upon graduating high school, she relocated to Kansas City to attend college.
After a series of jobs waitressing and typing, Dement first began composing songs at the age of 25. Honing her skills at open-mic nights, in 1988 she moved to Nashville, where she contacted producer Jim Rooney, who helped her land a record contract. Dement did not make her recording debut until 1992, when her independent label offering, Infamous Angel, won almost universal acclaim thanks to her pure, evocative vocal style and spare, heartfelt songcraft. Despite a complete lack of support from country radio, the record's word-of-mouth praise earned her a deal with Warner Bros., which reissued Infamous Angel in 1993 as well as its follow-up, 1994's stunning My Life. Her third LP, 1996's eclectic The Way I Should, marked a dramatic change not only in its more rock-influenced sound but also in its subject matter; where Dement's prior work was introspective and deeply personal, The Way I Should was fiercely political, tackling topics like sexual abuse, religion, government policy, and Vietnam. In 1999, she collaborated with country man John Prine on his album, In Spite of Ourselves. Dement recorded four duets with Prine that earned her a Grammy nod the following year.
For additional information on Iris Dement, please visit
www.irisdement.com
The Sons of Champlin One of the best San Francisco bands of all time.
The Sons are back. They are one of the most requested dance bands ever presented in the Big Room. Their last visit in 2004 is still talked about. This veteran rock group started in Marin County in 1965. The Grateful Dead's Mickey Hart calls them "the most talented of all the S.F. bands." A top of the line collection of dynamite R&B and jazz musicians, the Sons released seven albums between 1968 and 1977. Carmen Grillo, formerly of Tower of Power, is the band's newest member. Fronted by Bill Champlin (who’s other band is the super group Chicago), the Sons are guaranteed to keep the dance floor full the entire night. Join us.
Strunz & Farah Two of the planet's most gifted acoustic guitarists!
Strunz & Farah return the Big Room for the first time since their hugely successful appearance on Sierra Center Stage. One of the most talked about episodes from both a musical and visual standpoint, Jorge Strunz and Ardeshir Farah bring a musical intensity that is almost overpowering to behold. “Strunz & Farah have distinguished themselves as two of the planet’s most gifted acoustic guitarists. They play with the swiftness of a desert wind and the burning passion of a Gypsy campfire…In addition to being talented arrangers and composers, their technical mastery of the instrument – especially in terms of speed – tests the boundaries of the human capability. With their incendiary blend of flamenco color, driving Afro-Latin rhythms and dazzling nylon string virtuosity…Strunz & Farah are spectacular live. For guitar lovers, the experience can be downright apocalyptic.” – Guitar Player. Jorge and Ardeshir will be backed by an international ensemble of world-class musicians. For lovers of flamenco, Afro-Latin, Middle Eastern and jazz forms of music, this is a can’t miss show. Their CD’s have been named Billboard World Music Album of the Year and they’ve been nominated for a Grammy in the World Music category. “If you dig the art of high-tempo alternate picking, these cats will make you drool…It’s simply uncanny to witness such a feat of sheer guitar virtuosity.” Guitar Shop.
The Allan Holdsworth Trio A member of Guitar Player Magazine's Hall of Fame, he's is a five-time winner in their readers' poll
Continuing my efforts to bring the worlds greatest guitarists to our Big Room stage, I’m proud to present Allan Holdsworth and his trio. This is jazz at its very best. Allan Holdsworth is widely regarded by fans and contemporary musicians as one of the 20th century's most prominent guitarists. He is one of a handful of musicians who has consistently proven himself as an innovator in between and within the worlds of rock and jazz music. Many of music's best-known instrumental masters cite Holdsworth as that rare and shining voice—a legendary player who continues to push the outer limits of instrumental technique and the electric guitar's range of tonal and textural possibilities. Despite the uncompromising nature of Holdsworth's predominantly genre-defying solo projects, he's no stranger to all-star jazz festival line-ups or large venue rock audiences. Musician Magazine placed Holdsworth near the top of their “100 greatest guitarists of all time.” There's never been a shortage of media attention or acclaim for Holdsworth's accomplishments and originality. An inductee of Guitar Player Magazine's Hall of Fame, Holdsworth is a five-time winner in their readers' poll. Beyond his ability in improvising mercurial solos and sculpting the guitar's voice into an ever-expanding range of textures and colors, Holdsworth has dedicated his energies to develop many different aspects of guitar technology. This has included new “baritone” variations of the instrument, his own custom 6-string designs (one most recently manufactured by Carvin), the invention of electronic components for the recording studio, and exploring the possibilities of guitar-based synthesizer controllers. Holdsworth's ability to improvise over complex and challenging chord voicing's always reveals a deep emotional base and a strong, imaginative personality that is as instantly identifiable as any among Holdsworth's generation of guitar and jazz masters. Allan with be joined by Chad Wackerman on drums and Jimmy Johnson on bass. Tickets go on sale at 10AM August 9th in the pub or by phone at 530-345-2739. This will be an evening of jazz guitar you'll never forget.
Richie Havens One of the most recognizable voices in popular music.
Richie Havens is gifted with one of the most recognizable voices in popular music. His fiery, poignant, always soulful singing style has remained unique and ageless since he first emerged from the Greenwich Village folk scene in the early 1960’s. It’s a voice that has inspired and electrified audiences from the Woodstock Music & Arts Fair in 1969, to the Clinton Presidential Inauguration in 1993 -coming full circle with the 30th Woodstock Anniversary celebration, "A Day In The Garden", in 1999
For over four decades, Richie has used his music to convey messages of brotherhood and personal freedom. With more than twenty-five albums released and a touring schedule that would kill many a younger man, he continues to view his calling as a higher one. As he told The Denver Post, "I really sing songs that move me. I’m not in show business, I’m in the communications business. That’s what it’s about for me".
Billboard said "this acoustic soul giant truly seems to be getting more inspiring and graceful with age", and Mojo remarked "he's lost none of his power to enthrall and enchant". In 2003, The National Music Council awarded Richie the American Eagle Award for his place as part of America's musical heritage, and for providing "a rare and inspiring voice of eloquence, integrity and social responsibility".
At another Los Angeles appearance, His Holiness the Dalai Lama asked Richie to perform "Lives In The Balance" and "Freedom" to underscore his urgent message about the future of Tibet. Please join us for a magical evening of music. Get your tickets early since seeing Richie Havens in the Big Room will be like seeing and hearing him for the very first time!
The Billy Bob Thornton Band A one of a kind Big Room experience. Time to dance to BBT.
Now, this should be fun. Join us for an evening with The Billy Bob Thornton Band with special opening act, the Boxmasters. For Billy Bob, writing, recording and playing live music is something he has done his entire life. With two RIAA gold record certifications, having performed on the Grammy winning album The Wind by Warren Zevon, headlining at SXSW 2003, a featured presenter on the 2005 Grammy Awards, performing vocals on the Tim McGraw tribute, Where the Bluegrass Grows, and the upcoming Anchored in Love: A tribute to June Carter Cash, (featuring Sheryl Crow, Willie Nelson, Elvis Costello and others), Billy Bob, when it comes to music, is the real deal. And his band….we’re talk’n a collection (nine strong) of major players here. To mention a couple….Teddy Andreadis – keyboards – Guns ‘n’ Roses, Alice Cooper, Carole King…..
Sam Bacco – drums – Emmylou Harris, Match Box 20, the Dixie Chicks, Garth Brooks….Steve Bruton – guitar – Kris Kristofferson, Rita Coolidge, Bonnie Raitt, Delbert McClinton, Bob Dylan…you get the point here. Thornton continues to break the mold while living on the cutting edge, creating powerful songs with prolific lyrics that are stories reflecting his love for music and life itself. This is Billy Bob’s only Northern California appearance. The dance floor is open. Tickets are golden. Tickets go on sale at 10AM in the pub on Wednesday August 8th or by phone at 530-345-2739.
Good luck!!!
Paul Rishell & Annie Raines and The Avett Brothers Two national headliners together for one big night.
Here we go again. Tuesday August 7th I’m proud to present two unique and talented groups that headline major clubs and festivals all over the country. Once again, the Big Room will be the only venue to present these award winning players together in one big show. First up….Paul Rishell & Annie Raines. They appeared here last in 2002 as part of a Mark Hummel Blues Blowout and between you and me, they totally and completely stole the show. In fact, on their latest album, Goin’ Home, the final two cuts were recorded during that show here at the brewery and in my humble opinion; they’re the highlight of the whole CD. They’ve won the W.C. Handy Award (The Blues Oscar) for Best Acoustic Blues Album and they feature Annie Raines, perhaps the finest female harp player performing today. The legendary Pinetop Perkins says of Annie, “she plays so good it hurts!” Downbeat says of Paul Rishell, “he makes the masters like Son House and Robert Johnson speak to us across time.” These two are worth the price of admission alone!!
Closing the show will be the Avett Brothers. This is another one of my “wait till you get a load of these guys” presentations. To give you an idea of their fame on the East Coast, “An Evening with: The Avett Brothers on June 16 at the North Carolina Museum of Art in Raleigh N.C. SOLD OUT 2700 tickets in advance. On May 11th of this year they appeared on Late Night with Conan O’Brien. They’ve been nominated this year for Album of the Year (Emotionalism) going against Bob Dylan, Lucinda Williams and Patty Griffin. (Good company) and Group of the Year, going against The Duhks, The Hacienda Brothers and Old Crow Medicine Show. By melding their similar histories built on folk, country, punk, jazz and gospel, the Avett Brothers – Scott Avett (vocals, banjo, kick-drum), Seth Avett (vocals, guitar, high-hat) and Bob Crawford (double bass) – are taking roots music in a completely new direction. The Brothers signature intensity (“the unhinged passion of two Jack Whites” – The Mercury News) has quickly launched the band from chicken-wire roadhouses to sold-out tours of concert halls and high profile appearances at Bonnaroo, MerleFest, Bumbershoot the Philadelphia Folk Festival and just two weeks ago, the Telluride Bluegrass Festival where, according to all reports, they were the hit of the festival. Once again this show is a Bob’s Pick. If you were fortunate to attend my last “pick” (The Mammals & The Bills) I’m think’n I’ll see you on August 7th. Needless to say, The Avett Brothers are also worth the price of admission alone. Join us for another memorable evening of music in the Big Room.
Jon Cleary & The Absolute Monster Gentlemen "Quite possibly the tightest, funkiest band in New Orleans."
OffBeat
"Jon Cleary is the ninth wonder in the world." - Bonnie Raitt. Jon Cleary is a triple threat—with a salty-sweet voice, masterful piano skills, and a knack for coupling infectious grooves with melodic hooks and sharp lyrics.
Born in Kent, England, Cleary has educated himself in the musical culture and life of New Orleans for the past 20 years. His deft piano style and unmistakable vocals are heard on recordings by Bonnie Raitt, Taj Mahal, B.B. King, Ryan Adams, and Eric Burdon. Cleary’s original compositions have been recorded by Taj Mahal on “Phantom Blues” and Bonnie Raitt’s most recent albums, “Souls Alike” and “Silver Lining”. Cleary does double duty performing as full-time keyboardist for Grammy Winner Bonnie Raitt when not touring with his own band, The Absolute Monster Gentlemen. His own live shows are an explosive party, mixing old school soul with the rhythms of New Orleans. Cleary has produced 4 recordings over the past 10 years. While Cleary is the prime motivator throughout, his Absolute Monster Gentlemen do their fair share of the work to bring Cleary’s musical vision to life in concert. “They work together very powerfully,” Cleary says emphatically. “There’s a very high standard of technical musicianship, but the key thing is that they also play with a lot of soul and spirit. These guys dig in and play with a lot of passion, and I think it’s that intangible element that seems to successfully move audiences everywhere we play.” As a review in The Washington Post by Pamela Murray Winters exclaimed, “Cleary plays piano as if he's revving up an engine and sings as if a line drawing of his behatted self were next to "soul" in Webster's.” Quite possibly the tightest, funkiest band in New Orleans." OffBeat. Jazzreview.com says,"they're a cross between The Meters/Neville Brothers, Dr. John and Lowell George-era Little Feat." Sounds good to me. Joins us as the Big Room get funky. Did I mention that the dance floor will be wide open!!
For additional information on Jon Cleary & The Absolute Monster Gentlemen , please visit
www.joncleary.com
Attention fans of the guitar. You remember back in 2001 when I brought in an unknown guitar player from Australia? You remember…Tommy Emmanuel. If you were lucky enough to be present during his first appearance, you remember the experience. Well, here I go again. I am pleased to present Monte Montgomery. Monte was named by Guitar Player Magazine as one of the “Top 50 Greatest Guitarist Of All Time!! He’s the only guitarist to win "Best Acoustic Guitar Player" for 7 Years in a Row at the Austin Music Awards. Here are some opinions other than mine…. “Monte Montgomery blows people away. There is no other way to describe it. Montgomery makes his strings produce sounds that obliterate notions of what one human being is capable of pulling-off with this simple instrument. Glance around the room wherever he plays and witness the wall-to-wall slack-jawed sheer astonishment.” Austin City Limits. “WITHOUT A DOUBT…the most awesome live performance I EVER witnessed in my many years of rock and roll appreciation. Monte can take one old guitar and produce the kind of music legends are made of. The kind one can’t imagine anyone else being able to out perform.”
Dallas Morning News. “The bottom line is DO NOT MISS A CHANCE TO SEE AND HEAR Monte Montgomery. He is a legend in the making. Astounding! Unforgettable!”
Los Angeles Times. “Monte Montgomery has pushed the acoustic electric further into the realm of virtuoso rock guitar than anyone else before him.” Rolling Stone. Pretty impressive quotes I’m think’n. Austin City Limits, Dallas Morning News, L.A. Times, Rolling Stone. Nicknamed the acoustic Jimi Hendrix, come see what all the excitement's about. Plus, he’s a wonderful singer/songwriter. The whole package. Join us.
The Bills & The Mammals The first annual Big Room Acoustic Happening!
Since I can’t get to the Kate Wolfe Festival or the High Sierra Festival this year, I’ve decided to put on my own Big Room Acoustic Happening featuring two of the major crowd-pleasing bands that will be headlining these two wonderful events this July: The Mammals and The Bills. No camping, no flies, no lines at the toilets. Just great music, great food, great beer and great company. These are two of the most popular young acoustic/roots/bluegrassy/jam mayhem-type groups performing on this summer’s national festival circuit. A wonderful co-twin bill. Opening the show (because someone has to) are The Bills, out of Victoria, British Columbia. They’ve just received the Entertainer of the Year award at the Canadian Music Awards in Winnipeg. Here’s what’s being said about The Bills: “The biggest blast of fresh air to come out of Canada since The Band!” The Herald (Scotland). “The Bills are without a doubt the best acoustic act around.” John Hassig. University of Wisconsin. “The Bills combine musical talent and showmanship to put on one of the finest performances you’ll ever see. They’re coming back by popular demand.” Dan Downs, Director, Rogers Folk Festival. The Bills are worth the price of admission alone. Closing the show will be The Mammals. Connecting rock and traditional Appalachian music with warm-blooded enthusiasm, The Mammals create a groove that’s easy to hold on to. No Depression magazine calls them “as thrilling and rocking as any band currently subverting folk traditions.” Based in Woodstock, N.Y., The Mammals travel the U.S. in their large diesel van filled with instruments and inspiration. Their dynamic rock’n roll rhythm sections and Appalachian fiddle-banjo alchemy will take you on a musical joyride. “The Mammals are the finest young bluegrass/old-timey band in the country, the country-branch house band for the new weird America. They perform total energy, off-kilter folk that more resembles the twisted quirk of the Holy Modal Rounders than the clean jeans or alter-ninnies currently clawhammering banjo’s.” L.A. Weekly. The Mammals also are worth the price of admission alone. If you liked the joy of Del McCoury, the energy of Rhonda Vincent, the quirkiness of The Duhks or the sheer fun of The Waifs, don’t miss this show. I have given it the “Bob’s can’t miss” seal of approval, which as you know, is as close to a lead pipe lock as you can get. Join us for our first annual Big Room Acoustic Happening
A Benefit for The Little Red Hen Garden Center Little Red Hen benefit comedy concert featuring Josh Blue, winner of Last Comic Standing.
The Little Red Hen is a non-profit plant nursery serving children and adults with developmental disabilities. Little Red Hen Garden Center is located on the corner of 8th and Wall Street in downtown Chico. We are proud to host this benefit that features comedian Josh Blue, the winner of NBC’s Last Comic Standing. Josh Blue has been a fast-rising star since first appearing on Comedy Central’s “Mind of Mencia” before gaining the attention and endearment of the country as a favorite and eventual overall winner on NBC’s Last Comic Standing. Josh is a diverse and triumphant individual-hilarious stand-up comedian, stand-out guest star on television, talented artist and stellar U.S. Paralympics Soccer player- refusing to bow to any of the challenges that come from living with Cerebral Palsy. Blue jokes, “I realize that people are going to stare so I want to give them something to stare at.” Join us for a special evening in the Big Room at the Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. to benefit The Little Red Hen’s efforts to build their future Little Red Hen Park and Garden, a quality place for people of all ages and abilities. One hundred percent of the money raised will go toward this noble goal. Please be prepared to participate in a wonderful silent auction and be aware that we’ll be offering a full buffet dinner for $10 that will be served for 6 until 7:15. The seating is general admission and this is an all-ages event.
Iris Dement One of the most celebrated country-folk artists perfroming today!
I'm sorry to announce that this show has been cancelled due to health problems. It will be rescheduled. Refunds are available in the pub beginning Tuesday the 26th of June at 9 AM and continuing until Friday. To those of you who purchased tickets over the phone, we will be in contact with you about a credit card refund. If you don't hear from us, please call us at 530-345-2739 on Tuesday between 9 and 11 AM and we'll take card of you. Sorry for the inconvenience.
Yours in quality music,
Bob
For additional information on Iris Dement, please visit
www.irisdement.com
The Fabulous Thunderbirds Perhaps the world's greatest rock & roll band!
The Fabulous Thunderbirds have been the quintessential American band ever since they came roaring out of Austin, Texas to inspire a whole generations of music lovers and roots-rock musicians. Their distinctive, powerful sound draws from the many roots of American music, mixing blues, rock & roll, R & B, Cajun and more to form the rocking hybrid that has spawned more than a dozen records and produced such mega-hits as "Tuff Enff" and "Wrap It Up", and won countless awards and die-hard fans around the globe.
Co-founder Kim Wilson spearheads the Fabulous Thunderbirds in their current hard-hitting lineup, which features Wilson's signature vocals and harmonica, rising stars Kirk Fletcher and Nick Curran on guitars and veteran T-Birds Jimi Bott on drums, Ronnie James Weber on bass and Gene Taylor on keyboards. To adhere to California law, I just might have to require helmets. The dance floor is open and the tickets will go fast. Trust me here. This is bad-ass rock & roll.
The nine-time Grammy Award winning kings of Texas swing, Asleep at the Wheel, make their much requested return to the Big Room. Trust me when I say, “Western swing ain’t dead, it’s Asleep at the Wheel. Their previous visits have been two of the most explosive shows we’ve ever presented. I’m talking stand on the tables and howl at the moon explosive. The dance floor is open, and the tickets will go in the blink of an eye. If you’ve seen them before in the Big Room, let me say, “Hope to see you again.” If you haven’t, shame on you. These guys are as good as it gets. Tickets will go on sale at 10 AM April 25 in the pub or by phone at 530-345-2739. Let’s hold it to a limit of six tickets each please. See you there!
Del McCoury Band The winner of nine IBMA Entertainer of the Year awards!
The Del McCoury Band is indisputably one of the most influential forces in the bluegrass music genre. With nine International Bluegrass Music Association Entertainer of the Year awards – not to mention a Grammy Award – under its belt, the Del McCoury band has earned its position as a preeminent bluegrass great. The band’s leader, one Delano Floyd “Del” McCoury, is a nimble, inventive guitarist and a master of the ‘high lonesome’ vocal style that is the foundation of the bluegrass sound. The band’s top drawer instrumental and vocal firepower, combined with deep-rooted dedication to hallowed bluegrass heritage, have kept them in the hearts of traditionalists. At the same time, their consummate showmanship, high spirits and willingness to incorporate writers from eclectic sources into the fold, have continued to spread the boundaries of their fan base. The Del McCoury Band is undeniably one of the most talented, revered and vital groups in bluegrass history – and one of the most potent bands in any field today. The Washington Post called Del “a national treasure,” while other publications have widely credited his band with increasing the mainstream and youth popularity of bluegrass. The Band has been featured in Carnegie Hall, inducted into the Grand Ole Opry and honored in Bill Monroe’s Memorial Bluegrass Hall of Fame. They have also shared the stage with the likes of The Grateful Dead, Phish and String Cheese Incident. McCoury also recently launched his own bluegrass show on Sirius Satellite Radio in June 2006 called “Hand Picked with Del McCoury,” featuring traditional and progressive music. The Del McCoury band is comprised of Del on guitar, his sons Ronnie McCoury on mandolin and Rob McCoury on banjo, as well as Jason Carter on Fiddle and Alan Bartram on bass. McCoury credits his sons with inspiring him to pursue more contemporary arrangements and fresh, revitalized material. He also attributes the tight sound of the band to the familial ties: “The boys think of music like I do, so their ideas are similar to mine. When you have that chemistry, it’s much easier to play.” And between their commitment to the traditional and their fearless adventure with new influences, the Del McCoury band has proven not to be a relic of bluegrass music’s past, but an architect of its future. Del and the boys have sold out their previous appearances here at Sierra Nevada in a matter of minutes.
Because of this, there will be a limit of 6 tickets per person and even with that, I apologize in advance to those of you who are unable to get tickets to see this national treasure.
Roy Rogers & The Delta Rhythm Kings "The guy is frightening." Bonnie Raitt
Roy and the boys are back. And it’s about time. It was their electrifying performance on our very first Sierra Center Stage PBS show that set the musical tone for our entire series. “Many guitarists dabble in slide guitar but the number of modern masters can probably be counted on one hand. Roy Rogers is surely one of them.” Guitar Player Magazine. “He absolutely shredded that crowd at the New Orleans Jazz Festival, and me too. The guy is frightening.” Bonnie Raitt. So said one great slide guitarist about another, the shredder being Roy Rogers, winner of the W.C. Handy Best Blues Guitarist Award. Yet Roy is not a strict Delta blues traditionalist, but a creative practitioner of rock, R&B, funk and soul. “Roy plays like a man who wants to take over the world. He displays the kind of guitar fireworks that get you making ooh-damn faces and contemplating a soul mortgage at the cross-roads.” Damon Orion. Roy and the Delta’s are a sure-fire sellout as they are guaranteed to keeping the dance floor packed from opening notes till da lights come on.
For additional information on Roy Rogers & The Delta Rhythm Kings, please visit
www.roy-rogers.com
Rhonda Vincent & The Rage "The New Queen of Bluegrass" The Wall Street Journal
Rhonda Vincent & The Rage return to take the Big Room by storm. Rhonda’s won the Female Vocalist of the Year for seven consecutive years at the IBMA (International Bluegrass Music Awards). She’s been voted Four Time Entertainer of the Year. The Wall Street Journal has dubbed Rhonda “The New Queen of Bluegrass.” She’s performed over 100 times on the stage of the world famous Grand Ole Opry. Not the Big Room, but they do’n the best they can. “Already as established a bluegrass performer as Ricky Skaggs or Alison Krauss, Vincent uses her latest live album to showcase the extraordinary talents of her band The Rage.” People Magazine. This is a first class live show, as good as it gets. Join us as they make the Big Room seem like your living room. She instantly sold out her last appearance here and one can expect the same this time. “She (Vincent) has never strayed far from bluegrass and country tradition, but what fire she breathes into that tradition.” Philadelphia Inquirer.
For additional information on Rhonda Vincent & The Rage, please visit
www.rhondavincent.com
Bock & Summerfest 2007!! A release party in the pub for Pale Bock, Summerfest & the Hofner Brothers.
Time to party in the pub! A combined release party so big we had to wait for spring to be sure we could use the patio. Picture this…Bock 2007, Summerfest 2007 and The Hofner Brothers 2007. Join us as we celebrate the release of two monster Sierra Nevada Super Stars and Chico’s own, The Hofner Brothers, releasing their first CD for public consumption. How can 2007 not be a great year? Doors open at 6 PM. Music starts at 7 PM. Limited seating and a special menu designed by Chef Layne and the guys. Tickets go on sale only at the door at 6 PM. $5 What a bargain! Bring your dancing shoes.
Sunday, April 8, 2007
Teresa James w/ guests Tom Ball & Kenny Sultan The best of both blues worlds in one big show.
Nothing—and I mean nothing—says Easter to me like a fabulous double-bill blues show. Couldn’t make up my mind on this one, though. Best in the business, acoustic, sit-down or funky, greasy, rock the dance floor till the morning comes?? So, I decided to do both.
Two headliners, one show. Opening the show will be Tom Ball & Kenny Sultan. As fine an example of the Piedmont Blues style as is performing today. Think Sonny Terry and Brownie McGhee. Sing Out says, “As good as anyone in acoustic blues.” WIKX-FM calls their album Double Vision the best album of the last 30 years. National Public Radio presents them with their Album of the Year award. And lastly, Sound Choice says, “The best acoustic blues act going, bar none!” Tom Ball alone has played on over 175 CDs. What I’m trying to say here is, “These guys are good!” Bob Littell.
To close the show, we put on the dance shoes and welcome to the stage Teresa James & The Rhythm Tramps. This band travels worldwide and has been one of the featured acts on Delbert McClinton’s Sandy Beaches Blues Cruise for the last seven years!! Teresa has performed live with such talent as Levon Helm, Delbert McClinton, Bonnie Raitt, Marcia Ball, Tommy Castro, Asleep at the Wheel, Lee Roy Parnell, and many others. Teresa’s band is an eclectic mix of Los Angeles-based musicians who’ve created a sound that is funky and greasy—where New Orleans meets Texas Blues. They are a “dance till the lights come on, can I please borrow your towel” can’t miss, good time.
3 Fox Drive & Houston Jones An evening of soaring harmonies, compelling original songs and some killer pick'n.
3 Fox Drive has been nominated for the IBMA (International Bluegrass Music Association) Emerging Artists of the Year award. They now stand ready to take their place among the very elite groups in Bluegrass and Americana music. Like Alison Krauss and Nickel Creek, 3 Fox Drive beginnings are rooted in Bluegrass and then they expand those boundaries to something more. “If someone asks you about the next big thing in Bluegrass – or maybe even mainstream Country (as the better Bluegrass acts cross over in popularity – and this one seems destined to) – the best answer I know of right now is 3 Fox Drive.” Mark J. Fowler, amazon.com. “For fans of the newgrass revival of the past few years, 3 Fox Drive is certainly talented and creates hope for a continuation of the traditional aspects of the music within the expanding genre.” As an added local note, 3 Fox features Redding Fiddle master Megan Lynch, a small town girl who’s made the big time! Also on the bill is the new Bay Area Monster Band, Houston Jones, featuring four original members of Big Room favorite, The Waybacks. They play what might be called “High Octane Americana.” “This killer acoustic music act has unique interpretations of grassroots Americana that will leave you breathless and thoroughly rocked.” National Public radio. A great twin bill featuring stunning vocal harmonies and a stage full of killer musicians. Come on out and welcome Megan Lynch
back home to the North State.
Les Dudek & Friends He's played with the Allman Brothers, Boz Scaggs, Steve Miller, Cher, Stevie Nicks and so on.
Guitar legend Les Dudek brings his power quartet to the Big Room for a night of serious rock & roll with Brian Hawkins on drums, Dan Walters on bass and featuring Mike Kindred on keyboards and vocal. Mike played with Stevie Ray Vaughn’s “Triple Threat” and authored the monster hit “Cold Shot.” Les’s guitar résumé is truly impressive. When Duane Allman died, Les was invited to record with The Allman Brothers Band. That's Les you hear playing guitar harmonies with Dickey Betts on "Ramblin' Man" and the intro acoustic guitar on "Jessica,” their two biggest hits from the Brothers and Sisters album (Capricorn Records). Boz Scaggs was his next stop and from there he moved on to Steve Miller. Les was a featured player on Steve’s classic albums “Fly Like An Eagle” and “Book Of Dreams.” Later, Dudek made an appearance and co-authored a few songs in Peter Bogdanovich’s Universal Studios movie “Mask.” Next, he teamed up with Stevie Nicks and co-wrote two songs that led to him touring with Stevie on her Whole Lotta Trouble tour. ‘Nuf said here. This is a “be there” concert. The dance floor is open and for this special event, it’s OK to bring your crazy friends.
For additional information on Les Dudek & Friends, please visit
www.lesdudek.com
Will Durst Comedy for people who read or know someone who does!!
The heir apparent to Mort Sahl and Dick Gregory. S.F. Examiner.
Will Durst's identity crisis is not helped by the media. The L.A. Times calls him, "A modern day Will Rogers." The Chicago Tribune hails Durst as a "hysterical hybrid of Hunter Thompson and Charles Osgood." He is, without a doubt, America's premier political comic. His last visit to Sierra Nevada sold out quickly, so get your tickets early. Trust me; he’s had plenty of opportunity to gather new material. I think you'll all agree...what's needed now is a good laugh. His résumé includes being a 5-time Emmy nominee and being nominated 7 consecutive times for Best Stand-Up on the American Comedy Awards. He’s appeared regularly on NPR, CNN, David Letterman, The “A” List on Comedy Central, Larry King, and he’s had his own HBO special. This is comedy for people who read or know someone who does. With the wonderful comedy duo of Mike & Deb opening the show, this is guaranteed to be 90 minutes of escapist hilarity. Will Durst’s performance—made possible by the First Amendment.
For additional information on Will Durst, please visit
www.willdurst.com
Chris Thile Chris Thile & The How To Grow A Band Featuring Bryan Sutton
To hear Nickel Creek’s mandolin phenom Chris Thile tell it, when he wound up putting together a bluegrass band and making a bluegrass record, no one was more surprised than he. Acclaimed as one of the most inventive musicians of his (or any other) generation, it was easy to see how his talent could, and did, take him in this direction. For this show, he’s gathered together some of the hottest young players out there – Greg Garrison, Noam Pikelny (Left Over Salmon), Gabe Witcher and the already legendary guitarist, Bryan Sutton. Bryan has been named the International Bluegrass Music Association Guitar Player of the Year for 2000, 2003, 2004, 2005 and 2006. Plus, he never appears on the West Coast. Five young picking superstars together for one big night on our Big Room stage. This show is so big that for once I’m doing a show on Saturday night. Yes, that’s right; you get to sleep in the next day. Tickets will go on sale Wednesday January 24, 2007 at 10 AM in the pub or by phone at 530-345-2739. Except for one night in San Francisco, this will be their only Northern California appearance. This show will be a one day sellout. $22.00
Robben Ford & The Ford Blues Band The boys are back in town. Robben, Volker, Pat Ford and a host of major players.
The boys are back in town. Robben Ford, Pat Ford, Volker Striffler and the gang bring their high powered jazz/blues/rock show to the Big Room. Possessing a résumé that includes stints with an impressively broad range of other musical personalities—Miles Davis, George Harrison, Little Feat, and the Yellowjackets, among many others—Robben has effortlessly traversed genres without compromising his exquisite, blues-based playing and singing. Along with Volker Strifler, one of the most popular guitarists ever to play the Big Room, this collection of major players is guaranteed to have the dance floor packed from the opening song until the cows come home. As always, get your tickets early. Tickets will go on sale at 10 AM Wednesday, January 31th in the pub and by phone at 530-345-2739. $25
For additional information on Robben Ford & The Ford Blues Band, please visit
www.robbenford.com
Shawn Camp w/ Verlon Thompson A legendary Nashville singer\songwriter.
Each year I stretch it a bit and bring in a show that I’m convinced will be one of the best and most talked about shows of the year, even though the artist is basically unknown to the North State. Previous examples of such shows include then unknowns Nickel Creek, Tommy Emmanuel, Ruthie Foster, The Wilders, The Kruger Brothers and so on. These have been Trust Me Shows or in more recent times, Bob’s Picks. Well, I’ve got another one for you. Although he’s a giant in Nashville, most of you are probably unaware of the name Shawn Camp. As a songwriter, he’s one of Nashville’s superstars. A few (of many possible examples) big name stars he’s provided top hits for are Garth Brooks, Kenny Chesney, Brooks & Dunn, George Strait, Diamond Rio, Randy Travis and dozens more. Some examples of roots/bluegrass hits include Red Bird and Forever Ain’t No Trouble Now on Ralph Stanley’s current set, Soldier’s Joy 1864, Magnolia Wind and Sis Draper, all three co-written with Big Room favorite, Guy Clark. Sis Draper is also on Ricky Skaggs new album. Plus Del McCoury recently cut marvelous versions of Shawn’s Travelin’ Teardrop Blues and his classic Love Will Not Change. Are you starting to get the point here? He can do a two hour concert and you’ll probably not only recognize every song but you’ll love his personalized versions of them. Did I mention he sings like a young Merle Haggard and plays guitar, fiddle and mandolin like a fired-up Darrell Scott? Need more…? He’ll be touring in an acoustic format with Verlon Thompson, Guy Clark’s trusted sidekick and quite possibly Mike Bubb, late of the Del McCoury Band on bass. For those out-of-towners reading this copy, consider making the trip to the Big Room. As with all Bob’s Picks, I’m committed to selling this show out. Say you were there!! Tickets go on sale at 10 AM Friday the 5th of January.
Cathy Richardson Band Big Time, big city rock & roll comes to the Big Room!!
Welcome to 2007. With the New Year comes an opportunity too fun, too hot and too close to home to pass up. On Sunday, January 28th, I’m proud to present, out of Chicago, The Cathy Richardson Band. Quite simply, this is one of the hottest, most exciting bands in the nation. They have been voted Best Local Band in polls by the Chicago Tribune and Fox News Chicago. The Chicago Tribune says, “Richardson shone like a rising star. Backed by an air-tight four-piece band, Richardson had music to match, a percolating blend of Little Feat rhythms, R&B shuffles, country strolls and American rock slam.” Billboard Magazine says the “CRB’s live show is one of the most energetic in Chicago in recent memory.” Closer to home, Cathy Richardson received national acclaim for her stunning portrayal of Janis Joplin in the original cast of the Off-Broadway musical Love, Janis, which ran for over two years in New York. She also just completed a critically acclaimed run of Love, Janis at the Marines Memorial Theatre in San Francisco. The San Francisco Chronicle stated, “The resemblance is as uncanny as an aural acid flashback. When lean, lovely Cathy Richardson, the singer in “Love, Janis,” pours her magnificent, flexible voice into one of Joplin’s signature numbers – tearing off a rousing “Piece of My Heart,” a steaming “Summertime” or an impossibly energetic “Ball and Chain” – the experience is more like hearing Janis live than any recording ever captured.” “When Cathy Richardson is on stage in Love, Janis, she gives a whole new meaning to the phrase A Star is Born.” This will be a night to break out your dancing shoes. This is rock & roll in your face. Your choices...sit and stare, dance like no-one’s look’n or crowd the stage and feel the heat. This is not a tribute band. This is a rising star, backed by a powerhouse band, live in the Big Room. Tickets will go on sale Wednesday January 10th in the Pub at 10 AM. Personal testimony here…I’ve seen Cathy perform many times. She has left me stunned each time. Chico has NEVER seen anything like this. Join us. $15
John McCutcheon Our favorite son makes his annual January visit to the Big Room
John McCutcheon returns for his annual visit to the Big Room. John's shows sell out quickly and he's become one of the most popular performers I've ever presented. He has emerged as one of America's most respected and loved folksingers. In fact, calling John just a folk singer is like calling Peyton Manning just a quarterback. Notice the clever football reference for those of you into football and more specifically, the Peyton reference those of you totally into Peyton. As an instrumentalist he is a master of a dozen different traditional instruments most notably the rare and beautiful hammer dulcimer. No less a figure than Johnny Cash called him, "the most impressive instrumentalist I've ever heard." His twenty-seven albums/CD's (probably more by now) have garnered every imaginable honor including an almost unprecedented five consecutive Grammy nominations. His storytelling style has been compared to Will Roger and Garrison Keillor. This is a music event for the whole family. When I see John perform, I feel better for days afterward. Give the give of music to your whole family for Christmas. Come experience John McCutcheon. Tickets go on sale at 10 AM in the pub on the 20th of December.
For additional information on John McCutcheon, please visit
www.folkmusic.com
Mark Hummel's 18th Annual Blues Blowout! Six national headliners together for one unforgettable evening.
Five legends of the blues harp and one fabulous blues pianist. This 18th Annual Blues Blowout might be the best ever presented. We proudly feature the leaders of five of the most popular blues bands playing today in one big, can’t miss concert. Let’s start with Rod and Honey Piazza. Rod has been a musical force on harmonica for the past three decades. Along with his wife Honey Piazza, one of the leading proponents of the barrel house style of blues piano, the Piazzas consistently “burn down the house.” I have sold out the Big Room when just Rod & Honey (and The Mighty Flyers) performed. The same can be said for Kim Wilson, leader of the Fabulous Thunderbirds. They too sold out the Big Room during their last visit. Kim Wilson is, in my opinion, one of the most powerful and talented harpists playing today. Like Rod & Honey, he too is worth the price of admission alone. Next up, Rick Estrin, who fronts the national headliners, Little Charlie & The Nightcats. Like the previous two players, Rick and his band also sold out the Big Room during their last visit. When you see Estrin play, it’s the whole package. “People don’t go out to see people who look like them. They want to see something special. I was schooled in this business to be a showman, and that’s what you get when you come and see me.” From Chicago, our next performer is the REAL DEAL. Billy Boy Arnold is considered to be a giant by blues aficionados. Associated over his long career with his teacher, “Sonny Boy” Williamson, Junior Wells (at whose funeral he played an epitaph) , and Little Walter, Billy Boy is one of the last of the Chicago legends. This is a rare West Coast appearance by Billy Boy and it is his appearance that really makes this show something special. Last but not least, Mark Hummel and The Blues Survivors once again will be the glue that holds this whole show together. Mark in his own right, is one of the most respected players performing today. His band The Blues Survivors will work with each of these acclaimed front men (and woman) to see that they’re put in a position to do what they do best. That is……Rock The House. Late breaking news here....BadDaddy recording artist Rusty Zinn has been added to the already fabulous line-up. Monster singer/songwriter/guitarist, Rusty is a headliner in his own right. Nuf said.
And yes, by all means, the dance floor is open.
Please be aware that tickets for the show will go on sale Friday the 8th of December 2006 at 10 AM in the pub or by phone at 530-345-2739.
Peter Rowan & Tony Rice Quartet Two legendary icons of Americana/roots music.
Two American roots musical legends come to the Big Room. Peter Rowan has played with bands ranging from Bill Monroe and His Blue Grass Boys to Old & In The Way with David Grisman, Jerry Garcia and Vassar Clements. His high, lonesome voice is one of the most recognized in American roots music. Peter has forged a career by zigging and zagging through a variety of musical styles, including bluegrass, rock and roll, Tex-Mex, old-time country, Celtic, folk and reggae. Peter has penned such now-classic originals as “Panama Red,” “Midnight Moonlight” and “Land of the Navajo.” Joining Peter Rowan will be Tony Rice. Once in a while someone comes along who creates such a strong and unique musical identity that he transforms the way others think about music itself. A musicians’ musician, Tony Rice epitomizes the best in bluegrass and acoustic music. Tony is perhaps the greatest innovator in acoustic flatpicked guitar since Clarence White. He has redefined the guitar’s role in bluegrass and raised the bar for a new generation of acoustic six-stringers. Tony Rice is, quite simply, one of the greatest acoustic innovators of our time. Joining Peter and Tony will be Sharon Gilchrist on mandolin and Bryn Bright on bass. Sharon, an original member of The Dixie Chicks is a major player in her own right. She can be heard playing with the exciting Old Time band, Uncle Earl when not traveling with the boys. Bryn Bright is one of the most sought after players in Nashville. Tickets to this show will make a perfect Christmas gift for the music lovers in your family.
New Year's Eve with Little Charlie & The Nightcats Once again, The Big Room is the place to be on New Year's Eve!!
One stop for the whole package. A complete filet mignon dinner (and other wonderful options) with all the trimmings you’ve come to expect from the Big Room. Begins with an array of tasty appetizers and salads and finishes with one of our killer desserts. We’ll also provide complimentary champagne just before midnight and great jazz to dine by and set the mood for the rest of the evening. The evenings entertainment features one of Chico’s favorites bands, Little Charlie & The Nightcats. These guys are one the of premier “good time” bands playing today. Little Charlie Baty’s slashing yet melodic guitar, Rick Estrin’s winning original songs, wise-guy vocals and diabolical harmonica wizardry, and their rock solid rhythm section drive their powerful mix of searing blues styles and offbeat humor home. “Romping, fresh-brewed, good humored blues, marvelously entertaining and brilliantly played” – San Francisco Examiner. “Endlessly impressive…blues spiced with rockabilly and jazz. Rick Estrin is the modern Sonny Boy Williamson…energized with volatile guitar riffs by Little Charlie” – The Associated Press. “Rollicking, super-cool, jazzy and hip…satirical, sharp lyrics and killer guitar and harp solos. It just doesn’t get any better than this.” – Blues Revue. Let the good times roll cause the dance floor is going to be packed all night. Doors will open at 7 PM and dinner will be served until 9 PM. We will feature easy listening jazz during dinner and then the boys come on the scene at 9:30 PM to play for your dancing pleasure till it’s time to take it on home. Tickets are reserved-seat only and must be purchased upstairs in the mezzanine above the gift shop (so you can actually choose your seats in advance.) Tickets will go on sale Monday November 27th at 10 AM and I expect (as usual) an immediate sellout. Only 300 tickets will be sold for this event so please be organized. If there are any tickets left after Monday the 27th, the remaining tickets will go on sale at 10 AM on Tuesday the 28th in the gift shop. Tickets for the entire New Year’s Eve package are $75. Hey people, I'm talk'n the whole nine yards here. Hats, horns, midnight balloon drop (if it works)and a party worthy of saying goodbye to 2006. No one says Happy New Year like Sierra Nevada.
For additional information on New Year's Eve with Little Charlie & The Nightcats, please visit
www.littlecharlie.net
Skinny Singers featuring Jackie Greene & Tim Bluhm Greene & Bluhm....a special evening with two of California's most gifted singer/songwriters.
Don't miss this very special co-bill featuring two of the finest singer songwriters on the west coast; JACKIE GREENE and TIM BLUHM. Jackie Greene has traveled through every major American musical influence: from country, to jazz, to folk to rock. Join us for an evening in which we feature the aspects of Jackie Greene that have led him to open for and to be compared to both Bob Dylan and Bruce Springsteen. Sharing the stage with Jackie is Tim Bluhm, singer, songwriter, lead guitarist and front man for Chico’s legendary Mother Hips. As a duet, they’ll sing Jackie songs, Tim songs, cover songs and some original material they’ve written together. Two of California’s best home grown talents together for one special evening in the Big Room. Once again the demand for tickets will be great so get your tickets early. Tickets go on sale Wednesday November 15th at 9 AM in the pub or by phone at 530-345-2739. This will be a seated event.
The Tommy Castro Band The future of the blues is here...and his name is Tommy Castro.
Back by popular demand. “This is the future. The blues is in good hands. When someone has the right intentions, with sincerity, you can never go wrong. This is the person who has the voice, the sound and the intentions to touch everybody’s heart.”--Carlos Santana. With his raucous blues-rock guitar stylings and passionate vocals, Tommy Castro is one of the best live acts to emerge from the Bay Area in a long, long time. Tommy and the band explore the boundaries of American roots music and their mesmerizing blend of rock, blues and Memphis soul are a sure bet to keep the dance floor jump’n the entire night.
For additional information on The Tommy Castro Band, please visit
www.tommycastro.com
Joe Bonamassa A true power trio. Expect Muddy meets Clapton.
Brought back by popular demand. My approach to the end of the year and the November elections is to rock out. So Joe is back. Joe Bonamassa is, without question, the most powerful guitarist ever to visit the Big Room. A true power trio, Joe and the boys will require a bit of an attitude adjustment. Born in upstate New York, Joe Bonamassa started playing on a short scale Chiquita guitar at the age of four, graduating to a full-scale guitar at seven. By the time he was 8, Joe was playing the blues like a veteran. "Stevie Ray Vaughn was a huge influence in my early days," says Bonamassa, "but not my only one. I was influenced by all the great blues masters - Duke Robillard, Danny Gatton, Eric Clapton, and Robben Ford were all musicians I gravitated towards. I just naturally loved the blues and the seductive sound of the Stratocaster." At ten, Joe was performing locally, and at twelve, he was asked to open for B.B. King. After the performance, King would say, "This kid's potential is so great that he hasn't begun to scratch the surface. He's one of a kind….a legend before his time." The Father of the Blues' high regard for Joe would be echoed by the guitar greats who would later perform with Bonamassa, including Buddy Guy, Danny Gatton, Robert Cray and Stephen Stills. This will probably turn out to be a stand and stare event. Picture Corby Yates on steroids. Joe’s concerts incorporate influences of Chicago, Delta and British blues into something wholly unique and electric. From the 40s and 50s music of BB King, Muddy Waters and Buddy Guy to the English invasion of the Yardbyrds, Clapton and Cream, Joe Bonamassa deftly elaborates on the many faces of modern music's most influential genre. Joe's May appearance sold out in two days. Get your tickets early.
For additional information on Joe Bonamassa, please visit
www.jbonamassa.com
Sophie B. Hawkins & Fruit An evening of explosive, vital, memorable music.
A wonderful twin-bill featuring two national headliners. A Chico favorite, Fruit is composed of a trio of strong-voiced, strong-willed, singing/songwriting multi-instrumentalists – Mel Watson, Susie Keynes and Sam Lohs. They have been selling out rooms and smashing CD sales records at festivals across Canada and in more than 30 states. They won the award for “Best Live Album” at the Australian Live Music Awards.
The distinctive vocal harmonies of its three frontline women hint at a musical bloodline that embraces everyone from Dave Matthews to Joni Mitchell, Ani DiFranco to George
Harrison, Price to Steve Wonder. They are worth the price of admission alone.
Sophie B. Hawkins is a dead-on super-star. Her debut album, “Tongues & Tales” quickly went gold and earned her a Grammy nomination for Best New Artist and the single from that album, “Damn I wish I Was Your Lover”, went into the top five on the Billboard charts. She followed that with another gold album, “Whaler” that featured “As I Lay Me Down” that would chart in Billboard for a record breaking sixty-seven weeks!! Both musical genius and enchanting performer, this singer/songwriter/iconoclast combines imaginative musicianship and rangy vocals with a captivating energy and raw seductiveness that have made her one of the most exciting musicians of the decade.
Sophie has been hailed by critics as a modern-day Janis Joplin. “She performs with breathtaking honesty and bravery.” Variety. Once again, demand for tickets will reach far beyond availability, so, good luck to ya.
Dervish This show has been canceled due to a scheduling conflict!
We apologize for any inconvenience this cancellation may cause. If you have purchased tickets, they may be redeemed in the pub for a full refund. We will hopefully re-schedule Dervish next time they come through. Cheers, Bob
For additional information on Dervish, please visit
www.dervish.ie
Celebration Ale 2007 Release Party Celebrations Ale 2007, Volker Strifler, Big Mo, dual CD release party, Nuf said.
A Celebration release party so big it has to be held in the Big Room. Featuring two of Chico’s favorite musicians and band leaders, Volker Strifler and Big Mo. This has High Heeled Sneakers and Leopard Skin Pill-Box Hats written all over it. Let me count the ways. Celebration Ale 2007, one of the world’s great ales for your drinking pleasure. Big Mo & The Full Moon Band, winners of the 2004 Monterey Bay Blues Festival “Battle of the Blues.” This six piece powerhouse features Big Mo’s powerful singing and a wonderful big band sound. Plus, it will be your first chance to purchase their newest CD. And as if that is not enough, The Volker Strifler Band. “I’m sure after you hear the Volker Strifler Band, you’ll be a fan. I know I am.” Those are the words of the guitar legend Robben Ford with whom Volker plays with regularly. Plus, Volker’s newest CD will be available that night also. Come join the fun. The dance floor is open. Tickets go on sale Friday, September 29th at 9 AM in the pub or by phone at 530-345-2739.
The Waybacks w/ special guest Bob Weir The Waybacks with special guest Grateful Dead legend Bob Weir.
A Waybacks concert is reason enough to celebrate. Add Grateful Dead member Bob Weir to the band and you have a once-in-a-lifetime musical event. And, we're the only club venue they're playing before going to Hardly Strictly Bluegrass in S.F. later in the week to play before 250,000. I don't know, but I think I'd rather see them in the Big Room. Who are the Waybacks you ask? "This eclectic quintet ventures where few acoustic groups have gone. The music made by The Waybacks ... features some of the most exotic settings for mind-blowing picking you'll ever hear. These guys are extraordinary musicians, and their spellbinding solos will leave you slack jawed. They call their music 'acoustic mayhem.' I call it sheer genius." - Michael Miller, BayArea.Com. You want a second opinion? " … few bands have produced instrumental virtuosos who can follow the lead of newgrass icons like Sam Bush, Tony Rice and David Grisman … The Waybacks, on the other hand, feature hot pickers who are destined to become revered new-acousticians, thanks to their individual solo styles and the band's novel and irreverent tenor." Scott Nygaard, ACOUSTIC GUITAR MAGAZINE. Plus, with the addition of Bob Weir out front, you'll get the Dead, The Band, and every other good time style of music you can think of. I know I've used the phrase "get your tickets early" but this time, I really mean it. Tickets will go on sale at 9 AM in the pub Wednesday, September 6th.
Jackie Greene Rolling Stone's Critics' Choice list "Top Ten Album"
At 24, Jackie is quickly making a national name for himself. He won the California Music awards "Best Roots/Blues Album" and his name is being mentioned in the same rarified air as Dylan, Springsteen, Van Morrison, Gram Parsons, Tom Waits and Mississippi John Hurt. Dave Siglin, Executive Director of the Ann Arbor Folk Festival says, "Only two new artists in the past have astounded me more than the acts they opened for. Jackie Greene is one and Nora Jones is the other." He has done national tours with Buddy Guy, B.B. King, Taj Mahal, Richard Thompson, John Hiatt and he's opened for Lyle Lovett. He's wowed audiences at the Newport Folk Festival, The Strawberry Music Festival, The San Francisco Blues Festival, The Doheny Heritage Music Festival (LA) and many many more. Jackie sold out his first appearance in the Big Room in a matter of hours. One of the most requested artists we've presented. The dance floor will be open so get your tickets early.
Darrell Scott/John Cowan/Pat Flynn A singer/songwriter tour de force. Three monsters sit'n, singing, pick'n and sharing stories.
A unique presentation of three roots music superstars. A front room like gathering of song swapping, story telling and some amazing picking. Darrell Scott's last appearance in the Big Room was one of the most talked about concerts of the year. “His playing is unreal. He’s just limitless in his approach and knowledge of instruments.” Sam Bush.
"Darrell Scott's music is equal parts talent and heart, soul and grace, power and poetry, charm and wit, funk and grit... all in service of the better parts of humanity. Darrell Scott is scary good. Listen and learn. I'm a huge fan." Rodney Crowell. "Scott is one of those so-talented-you-want-to-smack-him guys, as he’s among our town’s best singers, best songwriters and best instrumentalists." The Tennessean. What can I say about John Cowan that I haven't said before? After making a name for himself as one of the most in-demand vocalists in the early 1970s' music scene in Louisville, Ky., Cowan rose to fame when he became the lead singer for New Grass Revival. He and bandmates Sam Bush, Bela Fleck and Pat Flynn introduced a new generation of music fans to an explosive, experimental brand of bluegrass.
He has sold out his two previous Big Room appearances. And lastly, making a rare North state appears is Pat Flynn, one of the greatest acoustic guitarists on the planet. During his tenure with New Grass Revival, Frets magazine’s National Readers Poll voted Pat as “Best Acoustic Guitarist” for five consecutive years. For winning five years in a row, Flynn was inducted into the Frets "Gallery of Greats" alongside Chet Atkins, Doc Watson and Tony Rice.
Flynn has also been a session guitarist on more than 350 CD projects, including 26 Gold and Platinum records, as well as CMA and Grammy award winning projects, with a wide array of top artists. To see these three together in a relaxed front room setting has my vote as the potential show of the year for 2006. And I'm a think'n I've had a few good ones.
As always, get your tickets early.
The Sam Bush Band Founder of New Grass Revival. Bluegrass superstar.
Sam Bush extended the musical capabilities of the mandolin and the fiddle to incorporate a seamless blend of bluegrass, rock, jazz, and reggae. As the founder and leader of the New Grass Revival, Bush pioneered and guided the evolution of modern hill country music. Together with the bluegrass supergroup Strength in Numbers, he pushed the traditions even further. During a five-year stint with the Nash Ramblers, he provided a diverse range of textures for the songs of Emmylou Harris. On his own, Bush has continued to explore an eclectic musical spectrum. "I grew musically by being involved in that genre of music with people like Mark O'Connor and Sam Bush, who really are the gifted ones." Vince Gill. "Sam Bush's hero is Ozzie Smith. My hero is Sam Bush!" Emmylou Harris. "Absolutely one of the finest musicians to exist in the history of the world. I want to be him now." Alison Krauss. A rare chance to see Sam and his kick'n band in an intimate environment like The Big Room. Get your tickets early.
For additional information on The Sam Bush Band, please visit
www.sambush.com
David Grisman Bluegrass Experience Chico welcomes the creator of "Dawg Music."
For nearly 40 years, mandolinist/composer David Grisman has been busy creating "dawg" music, a blend of many stylistic influences so unique he gave it its own name. David is also a composer, bandleader, teacher & Grammy winning record producer; he's produced many critically acclaimed recordings (five of which received Grammy nominations) and has performed with Bela Fleck, Grateful Dead, Stephane Grappelli, Emmylou Harris, Chris Isaak, Dolly Parton, Bonnie Raitt, Linda Ronstadt, Earl Scruggs, James Taylor, Tony Rice, Peter Rowan & Jerry Garcia. Although he usually fronts his own quintet, this show marks a rare North State performance of his David Grisman Bluegrass Experience.
His first job as a mandolin picker back in 1964 with Red Allen and the Kentuckians established David Grisman’s bluegrass genre. In addition to his renowned groups Old And In The Way and the David Grisman Quintet, David has recorded with bluegrass greats Earl Scruggs, Tony Rice and Doc Watson as well as jazz and popular artists like Stephane Grappellli and the Grateful Dead. Grisman has recorded over 60 albums, five of which won Grammy nominations, and along with Jerry Garcia, starred in the 2001 filmGrateful Dawg. During his Big Room performance, the mandolin maestro will be joined by an all-star lineup of traditional bluegrass veterans, including Jim Nunally on guitar and Keith Little on banjo.
"Talent is the keyword here, not genre. The musicians work as one, supporting and enhancing each other with a strong intuitive sense, yet the central theme is always Grisman's mandolin." - Bluegrass Unlimited
For additional information on David Grisman Bluegrass Experience, please visit
www.dawgnet.com
Charlie Musselwhite A true living legend of the blues!
Without question, one of the true innovators of the blues harmonica. The list of past awards and current nominations is endless. 19 W.C. Handy Awards (now called the Blues Foundation Awards), 6 Grammy nominations, A Lifetime Achievement Award from the Monterey Blues Festival, 20 albums beginning with the all-time classic, Stand Back! and finally, numerous collaborations with such Grammy Award winners as Bonnie Raitt, The Blind Boys of Alabama and Tom Waitt. Join us for an evening with one of the masters. And yes, the dance floor is open. Some advice from a friend....get your tickets early.
Rory Block with special guest Doug MacLeod Rory's the finest purveyor of Mississippi Delta Country Blues performing today!
An acoustic blues show at its best featuring Rory Block with special guest Doug MacLeod. Rory Block is, without doubt, one of the finest modern day country-blues guitarists performing today. She’s won the WC Handy Award for Acoustic Blues Album of the Year twice and she’s won the WC Handy Award for Female Artist of the Year twice. “Her playing is perfect, her singing otherworldly as she wrestles with ghosts, shadows and legends.” New York Times. World renowned for her mastery of country blues, Rory Block has been called “A living landmark, the finest contemporary purveyor of the Mississippi Delta country blues tradition, a national treasure” by Blues Review Quarterly. Apprenticing directly with the seminal blues greats Son House, Reverend Gary Davis, Mississippi John Hurt, Skip James, Fred McDowell and others instilled a musical authenticity in Rory that would have been impossible for her to develop in any other imaginable setting. “Rory is widely regarded as the top female interpreter and authority on traditional country blues worldwide!!” The Blues Foundation
Opening the show is Doug MacLeod, a major player in his own right. Doug is known for his superb songwriting, guitar wizardry, warm soulful vocals, wit, and unforgettable live performances. He was nominated for two 2006 Blues Music Awards (the former W.C. Handy Awards). He was nominated for “Acoustic Artist of the Year” and “Best Song of the Year” (Dubb’s Talking Politician Blues). “In the tradition of songwriter such as J.B Lenoir, Brownie McGhee and Lightnin’ Hopkins, he writes about what he lives…the total package: songs, voice and guitar playing.” Blues Revue. This show is a Bob’s Pick. Should be one of the most talked about musical events of the year. If you’re a blues lover, check it out!!
Lloyd Jones & Curtis Salgado Portland's two top blues powerhouses!!
A Northwest Blues extravaganza. Lloyd and Curtis are two Northwest blues legends. Lloyd Jones is a consummate guitarist/singer/songwriter/performer/bandleader. Lloyd began working with such touring musicians as Charlie Musselwhite, George “Harmonica” Smith, Big Mamma Thornton and Big Walter Horton. He continued to hone his craft by performing with the likes of Albert Collins, Robert Cray, Bonnie Raitt, Taj Mahal, B.B. King, Dr. John, John Hammond, Etta James, Junior Wells and Buddy Guy, and many many more. Vintage Guitar Magazine said, “Jones offers vocals that would make Sam and Dave smile and guitar work Steve Cropper would be proud of.” Delbert McClinton said, “When I heard Lloyd Jones live for the first time it was like exhaling after holding my breath for fifteen years.” Lloyd and his 6 piece powerhouse band are sure to rock the house. Sharing the co-headline billing is Curtis Salgado, a true soul man. His heartfelt approach to the music has won him lead singer positions in such bands as Robert Cray, Roomful of Blues and Santana. Check this out!!! The late John Belushi was so inspired by Curtis that he developed his Blues Brother character for Saturday Night Live after him. Belushi dedicated the first Blues Brothers album to Curtis. His album Soul Activated received a WC Handy Blues Award nomination for “Soul Blues Album of the Year.” These two bands represent the cream of the crop of the Northwest blues scene. Two powerful bands complete with keyboards and horns. Co-headliners, Lloyd is a master guitarist and Curtis is a harp play’n soul singing monster. And yes, the dance floor is open.
The Tim O'Brien Band Tim won the 2006 Grammy for Best Traditional Folk Album!
Tim O’Brien returns to the Big Room with a collection of major roots musicians. Tim, Mollie O’Brien’s brother (who just played here and tore up the house) is one of the most respected roots musicians performing today. As a founding member of the super group Hot Rise, Tim has been awarded such honors as Entertainer of the Year and Male Vocalist of the Year by the International Bluegrass Association. Just this year his album Fiddler’s Green won the GRAMMY AWARD for Best Traditional Folk Album!! Tim sold out his first appearance here and I expect the same this time around. Appearing with Tim is monster fiddler Casey Driessen. Casey has recorded and toured with Darrell Scott, Bela Fleck, Lee Ann Womack, and Steve Earle. “Casey Driessen is emerging as the hottest new fiddler in bluegrass.”
-The Tennessean. Appearing on banjo and guitar is Danny Barnes, the former leader of the Austin, Texas trio, The Bad Livers, who were revitalizing roots music back when Nickel Creek were still learning the alphabet. Labeling his curious oeuvre “bluegrass” is like pigeonholing Gertrude Stein as simply “a writer.” Casey and Danny are worth the price of admission alone! Holding down the bottom end is Dennis Crouch on bass. Crouch has played or recorded with a long list of artists that includes Dolly Parton, Jerry Reed, Tim O'Brien, Steve Earle, and Marty Stuart, among others. Get your tickets early. This is roots music at its best.
Dan Hicks & His Hot Licks West Coast Jive 'n' Jazz Icon. An American original.
West Coast Jive ‘n’ Jazz Icon, Singer/songwriter Dan Hicks is truly an American original. Since the early '60s, he and his band have deftly moved through elements of swing, jazz, folk and country music to create the appealing sound he sometimes calls "folk jazz." "There's no one else who sounds like Dan Hicks, who writes like him, who has that dry sense of humor, or has that manner on stage. He's really one of a kind." —San Francisco Weekly
His lyrics range from the simply sublime to the sublimely ridiculous, all presented with his uniquely skewed and inscrutable touch.
Dan's irresistible sense of rhythm, hip lyrical styling, laid-back vocalizing, and infamous on-stage wit will make most who listen fans for life. He's a snappy dresser, too!
I’m pleased to announce that Dan’s bringing the whole package, including the Hot Licks for his Big Room appearance. Should be a show to see and be seen. Put on your high-heeled sneakers cause the dance floor is open.
For additional information on Dan Hicks & His Hot Licks, please visit
www.danhicks.net
Joe Bonamassa A true power trio. Expect Muddy meets Clapton.
Joe Bonamassa is, without question, the most powerful guitarist ever to visit the Big Room. A true power trio, Joe and the boys will require a bit of an attitude adjustment.
Born in upstate New York, Joe Bonamassa started playing on a short scale Chiquita guitar at the age of four, graduating to a full-scale guitar at seven. By the time he was 8, Joe was playing the blues like a veteran. "Stevie Ray Vaughn was a huge influence in my early days," says Bonamassa, "but not my only one. I was influenced by all the great blues masters - Duke Robillard, Danny Gatton, Eric Clapton, and Robben Ford were all musicians I gravitated towards. I just naturally loved the blues and the seductive sound of the Stratocaster."
At ten, Joe was performing locally, and at twelve, he was asked to open for B.B. King. After the performance, King would say, "This kid's potential is so great that he hasn't begun to scratch the surface. He's one of a kind….a legend before his time." The Father of the Blues' high regard for Joe would be echoed by the guitar greats who would later perform with Bonamassa, including Buddy Guy, Danny Gatton, Robert Cray and Stephen Stills. This will probably turn out to be a stand and stare event. Picture Corby Yates on steroids. Joe’s concerts incorporate influences of Chicago, Delta and British blues into something wholly unique and electric. From the 40s and 50s music of BB King, Muddy Waters and Buddy Guy to the English invasion of the Yardbirds, Clapton and Cream, Joe Bonamassa deftly elaborates on the many faces of modern music's most influential genre.
For additional information on Joe Bonamassa, please visit
www.jbonamassa.com
Lee Roy Parnell Texas roadhouse country comes to the Big Room!
The Big Room goes roadhouse country. Grammy-nominated Lee Roy Parnell is among the elite few who can be identified as a triple threat: an ace guitarist as well as a distinctive singer and songwriter. His music runs the gamut of diversity: blue-eyed soul, Delta blues, roadhouse rock, Southern boogie, Texas swing, and gospel. Lee Roy's songs have appeared on albums by Guy Clark, Flaco Jimenez, The Neville Brothers and more. His slide guitar skills can be heard on albums by Mary Chapin Carpenter, Guy Clark, Radney Foster, Charlie Daniels and many others. As a singer, Lee Roy has had 11 Top 10 hits and received the Star of Texas award for the preservation of Texas music. Lee Roy and his s**t-kick’n band will have the dance floor rocking so please…..leave your spurs at home.
Summerfest 2006 Party in the Pub Summerfest Party and ARC Benefit
Summerfest 2006. Almost 'nuff said. It’s party in the pub time with the proceeds going to The ARC of Butte County, Inc. If that isn’t a good reason to party….
We go local once again, featuring some of the strongest players in the North State and one special guest who’s strong anywhere he plays. It’s officially being called Harmonica Summit 2006, and the players include Rev. Nelson Corwin (Road Rockets), Micheal (Magic) Plank (The Blues Rollers out of Redding), Bruce Rowan, local monster (The Rolling Blackout Revue), Doug James (The Hucklebucks out of Sacramento) and featuring special guest and now Paradise resident Norton Buffalo (The Knockouts, Steve Miller Band and Roy Rogers.) The Rolling Blackout Revue band with Son Rey Garcia, Lenny Blue and Dr. Jimmy Conlin will be handling the back-up band chores with their usual crowd - pleasing presence. Special menu, patio open (weather permitting), Summerfest 2006, and the proceeds go to a wonderful cause. Tickets on sale at the door only. Doors at 6 PM, music at 6:30 PM. Limited seating so get here early.
Tuesday, April 25, 2006
John Jorgenson Quintet One of the world's greatest guitarist brings his quintet to the Big Room.
Reviews are unanimous about the John Jorgenson Quintet: his performances are simply exhilarating! Inspired by music created in the 1930’s by legendary gypsy guitarist Django Reinhardt, Jorgenson brings his own flair to the stage with amazing fretwork, quickly demonstrating why he won the ACM’s “Guitarist of the Year” award three times consecutively. Accompanied by the members of his Quintet, Jorgenson’s visit last year to the Big Room was one of the most talked about concerts of the year. John first came to national prominence in the mid 1980’s with The Desert Rose Band, a group he co-founded with Chris Hillman. The band scored five #1 singles after which John formed another award-winning group, the virtuosic guitar trio The Hellecasters. This group won both “Album of the Year” and “Country Album of the Year” from the readers of Guitar Player Magazine. Next he toured as Elton Johns’ lead guitarist, followed by stints with Sting and Billy Joel. Travis Tritt said that Jorgenson “is one of very few musicians who is capable of pulling off performances with the likes of Earl Scruggs as well as Elton John,” but perhaps Chicoans will more quickly take the word of hometown favorite, Tommy Emmanuel: “It was my great honor…to choose John’s song ‘Back on Terra Firma’ as the piece we wanted to perform in front of the entire world at the 2000 Olympic Games in Sydney. Oh, by the way, did I mention he is one of the greatest musicians I’ve ever played with? What a Groovehound!!!” Jorgenson’s last visit sold out quickly so get tickets early. This will be an evening of gypsy-jazz that you’ll never forget.
For additional information on John Jorgenson Quintet, please visit
www.johnjorgenson.com
The Brubeck Brothers w/special guest Dave Brubeck The first family of Jazz performs for Sierra Center Stage!
The Brubeck Brothers Quartet is an exciting and talented jazz group, consisting of four versatile musicians - two of them members of one of America's most notable musical families. Dan (drums and percussion) and Chris (bass, trombone and piano) have received international recognition for their extraordinary music abilities. They are joined by longtime friend and phenomenal jazz guitarist, Mike DeMicco and pianist, percussionist and composer, Chuck Lamb. Chuck has performed with such diverse artists as Bela Fleck, Tuck & Patti, Ginger Baker and The Woody Herman Orchestra. Jazz returns to the Big Room and the Brothers Brubeck are definite proof that playing jazz is in the genes. And speaking of genes ... joining the guys for a special guest appearance will be the legendary (and dad) Dave Brubeck. Dave Brubeck is a member of that charmed circle of improvising artists whose popularity is commensurate with his musical accomplishments. The first jazz figure ever to make the cover of Time, Brubeck has for nearly half a century been a major figure as pianist, composer and leader of perhaps the most widely known and well-traveled quartet in the history of jazz. Join us as we capture this first family of jazz playing together on film (Sierra Center Stage) for the FIRST time. This truly is a once-in-a-lifetime musical opportunity. Tickets go on sale Friday March 24 in the Pub at 9 AM.
Mollie O'Brien & Ruthie Foster Two of acoustic music's most respected vocalists!
Mollie O’Brien and Ruthie Foster in one great show. Mollie O’Brien returns with her guitarist husband Rich Moore to again demonstrate her amazing vocal talents. She has been called one of roots music’s best interpreters and singers, and her voice described as “smooth,” “smoky,” and “powerful,” –“bright and bold as sheet lightning.” Once you’ve heard it, you’re hooked. Her collaborations include the Grammy-winning “True Life Blues: The Songs of Bill Monroe”. And for the past few years, Mollie has worked with Garrison Keillor and Robin & Linda Williams as the Hopeful Gospel Quartet. She has earned rave reviews at major festivals and venues throughout the U.S. and in the United Kingdom, Europe and South America.
Closing the show will be Texas-native Ruthie Foster who has garnered critical acclaim for her soulful fusion of the blues, gospel, roots and folk. Her fan base grows with each of her outstanding live performances. “The energy she brings with just voice and guitar is stunning. Ruthie’s drawn comparisons to Ella and Aretha, but musically neither is really close. What she does have in common with Fitzgerald and Franklin is the irresistible blaze – it’s impossible to look away, even close the eyes, for one second.” --The Philadelphia City Paper. “The lady is totally blinding. She has a voice that can stand up to almost every great singer in whatever genre you care to mention. This girl should be on the cover of Rolling Stone. If she doesn’t go big then we might as well pack it all in.” Blues Matters Magazine UK. While touring the Canadian Folk Festival circuit, Ruthie sold 1000 CDs in a day, breaking a long-time record held by Ani DiFranco. Her appearances at the Strawberry Music Festival are legendary. This evening of acoustic offerings is the type of event the Big Room is made for. This show carries the Bob Littell money back guarantee seal of approval.
John McEuen & Jesse Colin Young Two national headliners in one big show!
John McEuen, known as America's instrumental poet, brings to the stage thirty years of wisdom and musical expertise, in addition to mastery of the acoustic guitar, banjo, fiddle and mandolin. A founding member of the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band and host of the Acoustic Traveller Show on XM Satellite Radio, John exudes a love for the history of acoustic music, and the joy he feels when performing is shared with all those who are fortunate enough to catch him in person. John was instrumental in the production of the platinum-selling album Will The Circle Be Unbroken album, considered by many to be the most important album in Country Music. Rolling Stone calls this musical effort, "one of the most important recordings ever to come out of Nashville." The Big Room is fortunate that John's heading our way. Also on this wonderful twin bill will be Jesse Colin Young, critically acclaimed solo artist and lead singer of the legendary classic rock band, The Youngbloods. Jesse possesses one of the most recognizable voices on the music circuit today. With such hits as Get Together, Sunlight and Darkness Darkness, Jesse helped create the entire folk-rock genre with his soaring, crystal clear vocals. Jesse is one artist that I've been trying to get here since day one.
Two national headliners in one big show.
the subdudes New Orleans is going to rise again. Louisiana's #1 Party Band.
Back by popular demand, the subdudes tore up the Big Room last year. Led by singer/guitarist Tommy Malone and accordionist John Magnie, this band draws inspiration from their native New Orleans, blending gospel, funk, R&B and blues with their own dynamite four part vocals. Bonnie Raitt calls them "as funky as they are original, all amazingly talented and soulful guys," while others compare them to Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young, or The Band. Their CD, "Miracle Mule", was named Best Album by a Louisiana Artist. Billboard magazine says, "the subdudes records simply can't capture the magic of their live shows. National headliners, the subdudes will host a Chico party, New Orleans style. A night to dance and howl.
For additional information on the subdudes, please visit
www.subdudes.com
The Steve Cook Band Local legends gather in the Pub for our Bock release party!!
Five Chico musical legends descend on the pub for an evening of dining, dancing and Pale Bock 2006. The Steve Cook band features such Chico notables as Steve Cook - lead & rhythm guitar-vocals, Ska-T – lead & rhythm guitar-vocals, Jimmy Fay – drums & vocals, Kim Gimbal – bass & vocals and Jerry Morano – percussion & vocals. This is dance music at is best. Doors open at 6 PM and music starts at 7 PM. We will feature a special party menu and we’ll be pouring Pale Bock 2006 (along with our other great brews). Tickets will be sold only at the door. $5 Come early and get the best seat because they’ll go fast.
Sunday, March 5, 2006
Elvin Bishop Band Join us for an evening with one of the all-time blues greats.
Guitarist/vocalist/songwriter Elvin Bishop has been singing and recording his rollicking brand of electrified down-home blues for almost 40 years. Bishop's history-making tenure as a founding member of the Paul Butterfield Blues Band in the 1960s, his chart-topping hits in the 1970s, and his emergence on Alligator Records in the late 1980s and into the 1990s place him at the forefront of electric blues guitarists. Elvin's music is a mix of his blues roots with contemporary funk and rock flavors spiced with a touch of country and the laid-back feel of his Northern California home. Rolling Stone referred to Bishop's music as “a good-time romp...raucous blues with high-energy soloing, mixtures of careening slide and razor-edged bursts, all delivered with unflagging enthusiasm and wit.” Sooo.. put on your high heeled sneakers and your leopard skin pillbox hat cause the dance floor is open.
Patrick Street - A benefit for KZFR "Mesmerizing...a must for those who love Irish music." Billboard
Kevin Burke, Andy Irvine, Jackie Daly and Ged Foley – collectively know as Patrick Street – are known throughout the Irish music world as four of its most brilliant players. Beginning as a one-time tour of four recognized masters, nearly two decades and eight albums later this “super group” has reached legendary status. “There’s no better Celtic music group in the world right now than Patrick Street!” The Washington Post
Patrick Street adds a new lane this year with the addition of multi-instrumentalist John Carty. Known for his sensational fiddling, John will add double fiddle with Kevin as well as exciting variety to the band with his talents on banjo, flute and tenor-guitar.
“With the relaxed grace of masters, Patrick Street use their breathtaking virtuosity to display this ancient music at its wild and humble best.” The Boston Globe.
Join us for a KZFR benefit in the Big Room. The money collected goes to keeping Chico’s most important voice on the air for all to hear.
John Cowan Band "The Voice" returns to the Big Room for an evening of new grass, groove grass and Americana music.
The “voice” returns. And this time he’s bringing his own band of musical monsters. John, the former lead singer of the legendary group New Grass Revival, embraces his acoustic music roots with a talented quartet of musicians performing new grass, groove grass and Americana as only he/they can. With a history that encompasses hit records, Grammy-nominations and a host of famous friends who call on “the voice” for studio and live performances, John brings an energy and musical drive that makes his live performances the stuff of “roots” legend. The featured performers are John – vocal & bass guitar, Craig Bignell – percussion & vocals, Jeff Autry – guitar & vocals, and Rex McGee – banjo, fiddle, mandolin and guitar. This will be an evening of powerful musical grooves and stunning vocals by the man who’s recognized and universally referred to as simply “the voice.” If you’ve experienced a John Cowan concert before, we’ll see you there. If you haven’t, don't miss this opportunity to see one of the unique talents on the American roots scene today. This will be the John Cowan Band’s only Northern California appearance. Get your tickets early.
For additional information on John Cowan Band, please visit
www.johncowan.com
An evening with Bela Fleck & The Flecktones Featuring Victor Lemonte Wooten, Future Man and Jeff Coffin.
MONDAY IS SOLD OUT!!! TUESDAY IS NOW SOLD OUT!!!
Join us for a special filming of Sierra Center Stage as we present Bela Fleck & The Flecktones featuring Victor Lemonte Wooten, Future Man and Jeff Coffin. We will be presenting and filming for two big nights, February 13 & February 14th. Come be part of the show. Often considered the premiere banjo player in the world, Bela Fleck has virtually reinvented the image and the sound of the banjo in a remarkable performing and recording career that has taken him all over the musical map. Since the group's formation in 1989, Bela Fleck and the Flecktones' relentless touring has garnered major attention, highlighting the interplay of true virtuoso musicians: Fleck, bassist Victor Wooten, percussionist Future Man and saxophonist Jeff Coffin. Famed for his touring schedule, the Flecktones reached more than 500,000 audience members yearly from 2001 on. The recipients of multiple Grammy Awards going back to 1998, Bela Fleck & The Flecktones picked up the Best Contemporary Jazz Performance, Instrumental Grammy in 2000 for Outbound. Fleck's total Grammy count is 8 Grammys won, and 20 nominations. He has been nominated in more different categories than anyone in Grammy history. Nuff said. Tickets will go on sale Wednesday January 11 at 9AM in the pub and by phone at 530-345-2739 also at 9AM.
For additional information on An evening with Bela Fleck & The Flecktones, please visit
www.flecktones.com
Shawn Camp & Verlon thompson Legendary Nashville singer/songwriter comes to the Big Room.
Each year I stretch it a bit and bring in a show that I’m convinced will be one of the best and most talked about shows of the year, even though the artist is basically unknown to the North State. Previous examples of such shows include then unknowns Nickel Creek, Tommy Emmanuel, Ruthie Foster, The Wilders, The Kruger Brothers and so on. These have been Trust Me Shows or in more recent times, Bob’s Picks. Well, I’ve got another one for you. Although he’s a giant in Nashville, most of you are probably unaware of the name Shawn Camp. As a songwriter, he’s one of Nashville’s superstars. A few (of many possible examples) big name stars he’s provided top hits for are Garth Brooks, Kenny Chesney, Brooks & Dunn, George Strait, Diamond Rio, Randy Travis and dozens more. Some examples of roots/bluegrass hits include Red Bird and Forever Ain’t No Trouble Now on Ralph Stanley’s current set, Soldier’s Joy 1864, Magnolia Wind and Sis Draper, all three co-written with Big Room favorite, Guy Clark. Sis Draper is also on Ricky Skaggs new album. Plus Del McCoury recently cut marvelous versions of Shawn’s Travelin’ Teardrop Blues and his classic Love Will Not Change. Are you starting to get the point here? He can do a two hour concert and you’ll probably not only recognize every song but you’ll love his personalized versions of them. Did I mention he sings like a young Merle Haggard and plays guitar, fiddle and mandolin like a fired-up Darrell Scott. Need more….He’ll be touring in an acoustic format with Verlon Thompson, Guy Clark’s trusted sidekick and Mike Bubb of the Del McCoury Band on Bass. For those out-of-towners reading this copy, consider making the trip to Big Room. As with all Bob’s Picks, I’m committed to selling this show out. Little help here!!
Tommy Emmanuel The most popular performer ever to play the Big Room
He's baaack. And for two big nights. Monday January 30th and Tuesday January 31st. Don't know quite what to say that hasn't been said before. Perhaps the world's greatest acoustic guitarist. And without question, one of the world's great performers. If you've seen him before in the Big Room, here we go again, and if you haven't, shame on you. The general consensus of those who've experienced Tommy is that it was, without question, the most enjoyable concert they've ever seen. Needless to say, tickets are at a premium. They'll go on sale Wednesday December 28th in the Pub at 9AM. We will sell out both days that morning so get in line early. You may also order by phone at 530-345-2739 beginning at 9AM but be forewarned that we only have two phone lines so it can be hard to get through. Plus, there's a rumor being started that he'll have a guest harmonica player sit'n in. Ya never know. This will be his only appearance here till 2007 so don't miss out.
John McCutcheon Calling John just a "folksinger" is like saying Peyton Manning is just a football player.
It's January and time for one of our favorite son's to make his annual visit to the Big Room. John's shows sell out quickly and he's become one of the most popular performers I've ever presented. He has emerged as one of America's most respected and loved folksingers. As an instrumentalist he is a master of a dozen different traditional instruments, most notably the rare and beautiful hammer dulcimer. No less a figure than Johnny Cash called him, "the most impressive instrumentalist I've ever heard." His twenty-seven albums/CD's have garnered every imaginable honor including an almost unprecedented five consecutive Grammy nominations. His commitment to grassroots political organizations has put him in the frontlines for many of the issues important to communities and workers. His storytelling style has been compared to Will Rogers and Garrison Keillor. This is a music event for the whole family. When I see John perform, I feel better for days afterward. Come experience John McCutcheon.
For additional information on John McCutcheon, please visit
www.folkmusic.com
Mark Hummel's 16th Annual Harp Blowout Four legends of the blues harmonica...Magic Dick, Lee Oskar,
Jerry Portnoy and Mark Hummel.
It’s that time of year again and the Mark Hummel Blues Blowout returns to the Big Room better than ever. You say you want to hear legends of the Harmonica?? How about this? Can you say Magic Dick? An original member of the J. Geils Band, Magic Dick originated and perfected the concept of rock & roll harp. His signature instrumental “Whammer Jammer,” is considered to be a harp classic. Dick was a driving force on the Platinum album Freeze Frame, which ascended to #1 on the Billboard album charts, spent four weeks there, and remained on the charts for a total of 70 weeks. This is a rare West Coast appearance for Magic Dick and he’s probably worth the price of admission alone.
That said, how about superstar Lee Oskar, who's signature harp lines underscored some of the most popular and recognizable songs of the 80’s. His albums have spawned an arsenal of hits, including All Day Music, The Cisco Kid, Why Can’t We Be Friends?, Low Rider and Summer. Once again, this is a rare West Coast appearance and not to be redundant, but Lee’s probably worth the price of admission alone. Not satisfied? I may have saved the best for last. I’m proud to present a true master, Jerry Portnoy. During a career that includes six years as a member of the fabled Muddy Waters Blues Band, another six as leader of the Legendary Blues Band, four years at the head of his own band The Streamliners, and another four as a featured member of the Eric Clapton Band, he has maintained a constant touring schedule that has carried him to every state in the union and twenty-five foreign countries on five continents, with performances at the White House, Carnegie Hall, Radio City Music Hall, the Smithsonian, London’s Royal Albert Hall and a every major jazz festival worldwide.
I’ll let others speak now. “Jerry Portnoy is one of the most stimulating musicians I have ever played with.” Eric Clapton. “Widely recognized as the greatest blues harpist of his generation.” Toronto Star. “The finest blues harmonica player in the business.” Knoxville Journal. Well, you get the point. Probably should mention that he’s worth the price of admission alone. Also, he NEVER plays on the West Coast!! Still not satisfied? How about Mark Hummel and The Blues Survivors. It is Mark’s energy, fabulous playing, and the true respect of his peers that allows him to put these once in a lifetime shows together. I’m proud to be working with Mark to present this incredible line-up of blues harp masters. Also, if this isn't the perfect holiday gift for the lover of the blues in your family, I don't know what is.
Richard Thompson A solo acoustic performance by Britain's greatest living singer/songwriter.
Since Richard Thompson's recording debut in 1968, this singer/songwriter/guitarist has created a body of work unsurpassed in its sheer musical invention and emotional precision. Rolling Stone Magazine named Thompson’s’ album, Shoot Out the Lights, one of the “100 Best Albums of All Time." From his early days with influential group Fairport Convention to the 21st Century, Richard Thompson’s creativity, witty, storytelling lyrics and guitar prowess exemplify the British folk-rock troubadour moniker. “His pre-eminence as Britain's greatest living singer-songwriter is unrivalled. And that is not an opinion, that is a fact." ~ Uncut Magazine. Being described as “the English Bob Dylan” is a fair comparison. I’m pleased to announce this just-signed event will be filmed for our PBS series, Sierra Center Stage. Join us for an unforgettable evening of wit and musical wisdom. Tickets go on sale at 9AM Wednesday November 2nd in the Pub. Get there early. I expect a first day sellout.
Cafe R&B Led by Roach, a stunning, beautiful force of female nature! Think Tina Turner.
Join us for the last Big Room dance event of the year (not counting NYE) when we feature Café R&B. Their last visit was in the Pub for a release party and we literally had to call the fire department to hose the place down they were so hot. Perhaps the most powerful band ever presented in the Pub. I got a late opportunity to present them in the Big Room and they’re so good, I couldn’t pass it up. The So Cal band, led by the stunning, beautiful force of female nature named Roach, makes you think of Tina Turner and Bonnie Raitt. After seeing Café R&B, Ike Turner said, “I ain't seen sh*t like this since me and you know who.” “Imagine Etta James riding a Harley out of an active volcano and you'll have some inkling of the vocal power emanating from Roach.” Hits Magazine. Cafe R&B delivers soul and rhythm and blues with a torrent of emotion that spills over the stage. She has been described as a mixture of Aretha Franklin, Bessie Smith and Etta James. “This lady not only feels every emotion, she makes it a spiritual experience” Music Connection. Join us for an evening that will be talked about for a long time. This is a “need to see to be believed, hellfire, drop-to-the-knees testifying musical experience.” Sounds like a fun evening to me.
For additional information on Cafe R&B, please visit
www.caferandb.com
Little Charlie & The Nightcats One of the most versatile bands performing today. Little Charlie Baty and Rick Estrin rock!!
Little Charlie and the Nightcats are one of Chico’s favorite bands and yet amazingly enough, this will be their first appearance in the Big Room. Little Charlie Baty’s slashing yet melodic guitar, Rick Estrin’s winning original songs, wise-guy vocals and diabolical harmonica wizardry, and their rock solid rhythm section drive their powerful mix of searing blues styles and offbeat humor home. “Romping, fresh-brewed, good humored blues, marvelously entertaining and brilliantly played” – San Francisco Examiner.
“Endlessly impressive…blues spiced with rockabilly and jazz. Rick Estrin is the modern Sonny Boy Williamson…energized with volatile guitar riffs by Little Charlie” – The Associated Press. “Rollicking, super-cool, jazzy and hip…satirical, sharp lyrics and killer guitar and harp solos. It just doesn’t get any better than this.” – Blues Revue.
Let the good times roll cause the dance floor is open!!
For additional information on Little Charlie & The Nightcats, please visit
www.alligator.com
Dave Alvin & The Guilty Men Grammy Award winning blues guitarist who helped jump start the American Roots rock scene.
Always one of the featured players on the national festival circuit, Dave Alvin and The Guilty Men will bring a hard- edged yet introspective blues rock sound to the Big Room.
Dave helped to kick-start the American Roots rock scene in the early 80’s with the band The Blasters and has since gone on to a career as a solo performer, songwriter, producer and sideman that’s been as well respected as it is eclectic. Dave moved back and forth between hard-edged roots rock and more introspective acoustic material that still honored his influences (and allowed him to display a greater range as a vocalist). In 2000, Dave recorded a collection of traditional folk and blues classics, Public Domain: Songs From the Wild Land, which earned him a Grammy award for Best Contemporary Folk Album.
His work on the guitar has been featured on dozens of other records including Tom Waits, Los Lobos and Little Milton. After two years of trying, we’re proud to be presenting Dave Alvin and The Guilty Men. Note…..the dance floor is open.
For additional information on Dave Alvin & The Guilty Men, please visit
www.davealvin.com
Chris Hillman & Herb Pedersen Two of the founders of the California Country Rock sound!
Take the best out the shared experiences of country, rock, and, yes, folk music, and there, standing head and shoulders tall above the rest, are the magnificent voices of Chris Hillman & Herb Pedersen. The legendary Chris Hillman, of the Byrds, Flying Burrito Brothers and Desert Rose Band fame, is arguably the pioneer and innovator of California Country Rock. He is a great singer and a musician’s musician.
Herb Pederson has a crystal clear tenor voice that has graced the works of such artists as Vince Gill, Buck Owens, Linda Ronstadt, Emmylou Harris, James Taylor and Gordon Lightfoot, not to mention his own experience in the Dillards, The Desert Rose Band and The Laurel Canyon Ramblers.
Joining Chris & Herb will be Chico’s own Sally Van Meter. Sally is recognized as one of the top of the line Dobro players performing today. "Playing long, straight, understated lines, Sally Van Meter sets a new standard for lyricism on the Dobro."-Acoustic Guitar "Sally Van Meter has worked her way into a position of envy in the universe of the living Dobro…"-Bluegrass Music News.
Rounding out the quartet will be Bill Bryson on base. This will be Bill’s third visit to the Big Room. Bill played bass with both the Laurel Canyon Ramblers and The Laurie Lewis Trio during their sold out Big Room performances.
Midnight Blues Society Benefit The Rolling Blackouts Revue w/guests The Midnighters Band
It's time for our yearly benefit concert in the pub to help support the local blues players in Chico. All money collected goes to support the non-profit Midnight Blues Society and Sierra Nevada is pleased to be able to provide the pub as a kick-ass venue so these guys can be heard, as they should be. Opening the evening will be the Midnighters Band, an all-star line-up of players from such bands as Big Mo, Cryin' Out Loud, The Sofa Kings, The Blue Paradise Band and The Fly By Night Band. They feature Randall Ahlswede-lead and slide guitar, Lori Dana-keyboards, Steven Rubenstein-harp, Matt Siran-bass guitar, Richard Braley-drums, John McMurtry-lead and rhythm guitar and Eric Weber- Sax. Closing the show is the popular Rolling Blackouts Revue. From traditional blues shuffles, to funkified funk, to infectious Afro-Cuban grooves...this band does it all. The RBR features Lenny Blue-bass guitar and vocals, Bruce Rowen-harp and vocals, Son Rey Garcia-lead guitar & vocals and Dr. Jimmie-drums and vocals. Come out and watch the locals get-it-on. Doors open at 6PM and Music starts at 7PM. There will be a special menu and weather permitting; the patio (and the dance floor) will be open. Tickets will be sold only at the door beginning at 6PM. Come early, as the good seats will go fast.
Tuesday, October 4, 2005
Ricky Skaggs & Kentucky Thunder Without question, a once in a lifetime bluegrass experience.
2004-marked Ricky’s 33rd year as a professional musician and he continues to do his part to lead the recent roots revival in music. Ricky has won eight Grammy Awards and Kentucky Thunder has won three consecutive awards for “Instrumental Group of the Year” from the IBMA. The media has referred to Kentucky Thunder as the “Blue Angels” of music. They have the talent and dedication to fulfill Ricky’s vision of bluegrass music-entertaining audiences with a contemporary style, while remaining true to the traditional core of its origin. A Kentucky Thunder appearance, with its non-stop, no-holds-barred energy reflects both sincere enthusiasm and consummate professionalism. It is an awesome experience, one that brings both old and new audiences to their feet. They are truly the King Kong’s of bluegrass bands and I can’t wait to see them spread seven across on our Big Room stage. THEY WILL BE HERE FOR TWO BIG NIGHTS!! Tuesday October 4th and Wednesday October 5th. Tickets go on sale Friday September 9th at 9AM in the pub. Tickets also may be ordered over the phone after 9AM by calling 530-345-2739. Please be organized since I expect to sell out that Friday. Trust me when I say you’ll never get a chance to see this group in a more intimate setting than our Big Room.
David Bromberg Quintet A master picker and performer visits the Big Room for one special evening.
A singular performer/writer/arranger, Bromberg’s remarkable musical versatility and innovative resourcefulness have earned vast critical and popular acclaim. He is also impossible to classify: As one critic perceptively wrote, “David Bromberg fits no pigeonholes. He is part of everything contemporarily musical. He is a product of blues, country, jazz, folk, and classical music. From his early success as a guitar virtuoso, Mr. Bromberg has developed into a brilliant entertainer.” As an instrumentalist, he's been called brilliant, eclectic, electrifying - a virtuoso on dobro, mandolin, fiddle and guitar and a master of both flatpicking and fingerstyle.
Bromberg’s live show remains as unique as ever. Concerts by David and his band are extraordinary events, and performances follow no set pattern of selection. Give and take between performers is complete, spontaneous, and totally sincere. As the NY Times noted “He has such control of his audience that he can, at one moment, hold it in his hand with a tender, touching yet funny anecdotal song, and then set it romping and stomping with a raucous bit of raunch. He is electrifying.”
His extraordinary guitar picking and exceptional stylistic range brought him to the attention of many other musicians: Bob Dylan, Ringo Starr, John Hurt, the Reverend Gary Davis, Tom Paxton, and Chubby Checker are only a few of the notables who sought Bromberg out as a back-up artist for recording. In all he has played as a sideman on over 100 albums.
For additional information on David Bromberg Quintet, please visit
www.davidbromberg.net
Billy Joe Shaver "May be the best song writer alive today." Willie Nelson
It could be said that as a songwriter, Billy Joe Shaver created Outlaw Country along with Waylon, Willie and the boys. Nine out of ten songs featured on Waylon Jennings landmark album Honky Tonk Heroes were written by Billy Joe. At least half of them – “Honky Tonk Heroes”, “Old Five and Dimers (Like Me),” Ride Me Down Easy,” “Ain’t No God in Mexico,” and “Black Rose” – are now classics of Outlaw country. Others who’ve recorded his songs include Bobby Bare, Willie Nelson, Bob Dylan, Elvis Presley, Johnny Rodriguez, The Allman Brothers and Kris Kristofferson. Willie Nelson says, “Billy Joe Shaver may be the best song writer alive.” A tribute album of Billy Joe’s songs has just been released featuring Guy Clark, Robert Earl Keen, Jimmie Dale Gilmore and Joe Ely. Check your local listings and you’ll find Billy Joe featured on 60 Minutes with Dan Rather. Nuff said I think. Billy Joe and his kick’n five-piece Austin band will be making one pass through the north state. Don’t miss what could be your only opportunity to see this true musical legend in person.
Paul Thorn w/ special guest Matt King One of the most intelligent, creative and entertaining singer/songwriters performing today.
Inveterate storyteller Paul Thorn credits his gift of gab to being the son of a Pentecostal preacher. "You get to know how to get along with almost everybody. You just have to sit down and start getting to know one another." Thorn has a lot about himself to tell. One would expect to hear great stories from a guy who boxed Roberto "Hands of Stone" Duran on national television, made chairs for a living, skydives for fun, had his first singing gig at age three, and who happens to be one of the South's finest songwriters. Paul Thorn doesn't disappoint. Thorn started down his music path when he was not long out of diapers. "As a child, I sang in churches. My first paying gig was at a revival with my father when everybody came around and put money in my tambourine. After the service, there was a little girl, also about three years old, who I had a crush on. I stuffed the money I got all down in my pockets. After the service we sat around the back of the church and I bought her a Coke with the money I'd earned. That was my first paying gig, and I guess my first date." Some of his songs: Ain't Love Strange, Burn Down the Trailer Park are crowd favorites. Paul Thorn is definitely one of the "must see" performers I've brought to the Big Room. This is a "Bob's Pick" can't miss show and comes with what I now present as my money back guarantee. Opening the show will be Matt King. Matt first performed here in 2004 as an opener for Robert Earl Keen and in my mind, and the mind of many others, he stole the show. His music is rooted in this timeless struggle-an American tenor struck in different keys by Steinbeck, Guthrie, Dylan and John R. Cash. I'm thrilled to get him back for a repeat performance. A Bob's Pick. Now really, have I ever done ya wrong??
Stephen Bennett & Muriel Anderson Two of the acknowledged masters of the acoustic and harp guitar.
We are proud to bring back one of our favorite sons to the Big Room. Stephen Bennett first appeared in 2001 as part of the bill that brought Tommy Emmanuel to Sierra Nevada for the first time. He next appeared with Don Ross and put on a "bring down the house" performance. Whether playing his great-grandfather's harp guitar, his 1930 National Steel or a standard 6-string, Stephen Bennett is a guitarist to hear. His playing has won awards and critical praise. With his stellar musicianship, a relaxed stage presence and quick wit, (he told me to say that) Stephen has performed throughout the United States, Europe, Australia and Japan. He's never failed to leave our stage with less than a standing ovation. We are also pleased to be presenting Muriel Anderson, widely respected as the premier woman finger style guitarist on the scene today. Muriel is the first woman to have won the National Finger picking Guitar Championship and she is host and originator of the renowned "Muriel Anderson’s ALL STAR GUITAR NIGHT". "Acoustic guitarist Muriel Anderson...has justifiably gained a reputation as one of the world's best and most versatile guitar instrumentalists." The Chicago Tribune "Just one hell of a great player, a great personality and what I like is the touch that Muriel has on the guitar, the way she plays is like we all wish to play." Les Paul Two special guitarist, one special evening. This is musicianship at its best. Join us.
Robben Ford & The Ford Blues Band "Tribute To Paul Butterfield & Michael Bloomfield"
The boys are back in town. Robben Ford, Mark Ford, Patrick Ford, Volker Strifler, Dewane Pate along with their keyboard wizard and horn section. These guys do Paul and Michael as well as it can be done. Fabulous early Butterfield and classic Bloomfield all the way through his years with The Electric Flag. Great stuff. Plan to get your tickets early. Special evenings such as this always sell out early.
For additional information on Robben Ford & The Ford Blues Band, please visit
www.bluerockit.com
Jesse Winchester An originator of the American singer songwriter tradition of the sixties and beyond.
Jesse is a living legend. The Louisiana born self-taught guitarist and multitalented musician generates a fine mix of R&B, country and gospel music that is a reflection of the music that he grew up listening to. Supporters of the Big Room know that I'm a huge fan of the singer songwriter concept and Jesse Winchester is, without question, one of the best. Some examples of his covered songs include "Yankee Lady" (Brewer & Shipley), "The Brand New Tennessee Waltz" (Joan Baez, Ian Matthews), "Biloxi" (Tom Rush, Jimmy Buffett), "Mississippi, You're on My Mind" (Jerry Jeff Walker), "Defying Gravity" (Jimmy Buffett, Emmylou Harris), "Rhumba Girl" (Nicolette Larson) and "I'm Gonna Miss You, Girl!" (Michael Martin Murphey). Winchester does not tour often so any chance to see him live is a great opportunity, especially in this unique solo acoustic format. Join us for an intimate evening with an American songwriting legend.
Porter, Batiste & Stoltz An explosive blend of Supersonic Funk brought to you by three New Orleans legends.
Bassist George Porter Jr., drummer David Russell Batiste Jr.and guitarist Brian Stoltz bring to the stage an explosive blend of Supersonic Funk.
Being three of the four funky Meters and all natives of New Orleans, they continue their journey laying down deep-rooted grooves not meant for the faint of heart.
George Porter Jr’s past follows him well as master bassist for some of New Orleans premiere musical groups. Beginning with the Meters to the funky Meters, George’s bass playing stands alone and is unmatched. His career has spanned over thirty-seven years. He is the premiere and most sought after bass player in New Orleans and has recorded and/or toured with Robbie Robertson, Earl King, Paul McCartney, Snooks Eaglin, Johnny Adams, David Byrne, Patti Labelle, Dr. John, Robert Palmer, Government Mule, Tori Amos, Jimmy Buffet, among others. In 1967, George began a collaboration that has lasted until today with the legendary Meters, considered by many as the best Funk/Soul/R&B band in the world. George has released five solo records and continues to tour with his own group when not on the road with the 'funky' Meters or PBS.
David Russell Batiste Jr. was born into one of New Orleans first musical families, The Batiste Brothers. He began playing drums at the age of 4. Not just a drummer, but a pioneer musician, drummers from around the world try to copy his timing and style. Russell’s originality has led to recordings with artists Robbie Robertson, Harry Connick Jr. and the Wild Magnolias, to name a few. In 1988, Russell joined Art Neville and George Porter Jr. to re-form the 'funky' Meters. Brian Stoltz has spent years recording and touring with artists as diverse as the Neville Brothers, Dr. John, Bob Dylan, Edie Brickell, Paul Simon, Linda Ronsdadt and others. His songs have been covered by artist including Aaron Neville, Zachary Richard, Coco Montoyo and The Wild Magnolias. Brian’s version of the Mississippi Fred McDowell song You Gotta Move was nominated for a 2003 Grammy in the Best Traditional Blues category. He remains the guitarist for the funky Meters. On his new solo release, East Of Rampart Street, Brian solidifies his place amongst the great songwriters of New Orleans. His greasy vocal slang matches his guitar style and together forms the characteristic of a true original. Brian Stoltz, as an artist, is a major force to be reckoned with.
George Porter Jr., Russell Batiste, and Brian Stoltz have lived a musical history that few, if any musician, will ever have the chance to live. They are originators of a sound and groove so intense that it pulls together and then transcends mind, body, and soul.
The Chicago Blues Reunion Six Chicago blues legends come together for one magical evening.
The Chicago Blues Reunion is a collaboration of Chicago music legends who defined the sound of their generation in the 1960’s. During that time, they helped create the historic transition in popular music from acoustic folk to electric blues-influenced rock. The band is a who’s who of blues lovers’ household names: Barry Goldberg, Nick “The Greek” Gravenities, Harvey “The Snake” Mandel, Tracy Nelson, Sam Lay and Corky Siegel. The Chicago Blues Reunion will embark on a 24 market tour celebrating the release of Burried Alive In The Blues, a CD & DVD that recreates the excitement that this group generates on stage. Their appearances include Seattle, Portland, San Francisco, Los Angeles, New York, Chicago and now Chico!! For the true blues lover, this is a once in a lifetime event. Get your tickets early.
Tuesday, July 5, 2005
The Duhks Kick-ass rock/folk fusion with a touch of progressive soul-grass.
The Duhks (pronounced as in “That’s just Ducky” or “Ducks L ‘Orange”) are the hottest acoustic group to hit the festival circuit in quite awhile. Out of Winnipeg, Manitoba, The Duhks describe their sound as “contemporary acoustic,” “progressive soul-grass,” and “kick-ass rock/folk fusion”. To get a feel on how lucky we are to get them here in The Big Room, The Duhks are being featured this Summer in the following festivals: Merlefest, Telluride Bluegrass Festival, Kate Wolf Festival, High Sierra Festival, The Britt Festival, The Cambridge Folk Festival, Strawberry (Fall) and when all this is finished, a full European tour. This unique quintet is captured in the studio for all to hear on their new, self-titled CD, their first with Sugar Hill, produced by that storied master of the unexpected traditional and of-the-moment mix, Béla Fleck. In the spirit of Nickel Creek, Tommy Emmanuel, The Wilders, and so on, trust me on this one. Be one of the few who get to say they saw them in The Big Room.
For additional information on The Duhks, please visit
www.duhks.com
Ottmar Liebert and Luna Negra A special benefit concert featuring Ottmar Liebert, world renowned, multi-platinum guitarist.
World renowned, multi-platinum guitarist Ottmar Liebert will be performing a benefit concert here in the Big Room Wednesday, June 22, 2005. All proceeds from “An evening with Ottmar Liebert and Luna Negra” will go toward the new international “Water For Life” project, which—with your help and the efforts of Rotary International—will provide Third World Central American countries the means for securing potable water. 35,000 children die EACH WEEK from non-potable water. The Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. is proud to be working in conjunction with Danny Salas of Access Real Estate Lending and Paradise Rotary to present this special event.
Since 1990, Liebert has released a total of 22 albums. His debut album, 1990’s Nouveau Flamenco, featuring the stunning “Barcelona Nights,” sold double-platinum and has become the biggest-selling guitar album of all time, redefining Flamenco music and marking Liebert as one of the most talented, influential and creative guitarist and performers to surface in years. We have a limited number of tickets going on sale to the general public Friday June 10th in the pub at 10 AM. Please join us for this wonderful event.
Robert Earl Keen Texas roadhouse wisdom returns by demand to the Big Room
One of the jump'n shows of 2004, Robert Earl and his band of wandering Texas troubadours return for a special evening of Texas Wisdom and Wildness. Armed with Guy Clark's rich storytelling ability and Lyle Lovett's weird sense of humor, Robert Earl and his cook’n band have created a niche for themselves best described as hipneck-country. As the Greenville, S.C. paper says, "Keen as earned a following that would make Deadheads take notice." Don't miss this major “big venue talent” in the intimacy of our "Big Room." Time to clean off your cowboy boots and dance awhile, Texas style.
Bill Frisell Trio Winner of the 2005 Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Jazz Album!!
“It’s hard to find a more fruitful meditation of American music than in the compositions of guitarist Bill Frisell. Mixing rock and country with jazz and blues, he’s found what connects them: improvisation and a sense of play.” The New York Times
Sit down and relax people, it’s time to bring in a jazz heavyweight. Bill’s latest CD “Unspeakable” won the 2005 Grammy for Best Contemporary Jazz Album. That said, I’ll let others speak for me. “For over ten years Bill Frisell has quietly been the most brilliant and unique voice to come along in jazz guitar since Wes Montgomery.” Stereophile
“Beside being a guitar genius, he’s turned into a terrific songwriter. Like Monk, Frisell’s harmonic and melodic ideas form a succinct, seamless mesh with outer sonic and rhythmic ideas about his ax.” Spin And finally, “The electric guitar sound of the decade-oozing, cloudy, enveloping.” Minneapolis Star Tribune Joining Bill will be bassist Viktor Krauss. His first recording as a leader, Far From Enough, featured Jerry Douglas, Bill Frisell, Steve Jordan and Allison Krauss. For many years he has been Lyle Lovett’s bass player and more recently, his musical director. Last but not least, Drummer Matt Chamberlain. He has worked extensively with Tori Amos, David Bowie, Fiona Apple and David Torn, among others. This is the best of the best. Join us.
For additional information on Bill Frisell Trio, please visit
www.billfrisell.com
The Fabulous Thunderbirds Perhaps the Worlds Greatest Rock & Roll Band!
After two years of trying, we're proud to announce that The Fabulous Thunderbirds are coming to The Big Room. Led by the legendary Kim Wilson, The Thunderbirds bring a raw musical energy unmatched on today’s music scene. To adhere to California law, I just might have to require helmets. Make plans to get your tickets early. They’ll probably go the first day offered (Wednesday April 27th at 11 AM in the Pub or by phone at 530-345-2739). Please, limit yourself to a maximum of six tickets.
Comedy Night featuring Bobby Collins Comedy comes to the Big Room featuring not one but two national headliners!!
Bobby Collins is one of today’s leading and most sought-after comedic talents. He takes the funny business very seriously—from starring in his own Showtime Special and being Rosie O’Donnell’s predecessor pick to host VH1’s “Stand-up Spotlight,” to opening for such names as Cher, Dolly Parton, Julio Inglesis and Tony Bennett, to name a few. Topping Collins’ first comedy CD “On the Inside” that showcased his wide-ranging observational material, his second “Out Of Bounds,” earned a Grammy nomination. While live stage performances in New York, Las Vegas and Atlantic City are forever expanding his list of faithful followers, he has also appeared in five feature films and numerous television shows. We’re told that plans for a network sitcom are in the process.
Opening the show is Mickey Joseph, a true comedian’s comedian. This is Mickey’s second visit to the Big Room. His first was when he hosted the 29th Annual S.F. Comedy Competition and without question, stole the show. He’s played the nations top comedy clubs including The Ice House, Tommy T’s, Flamingo Hilton, Harvey’s and The Punchline among others. Mickey is worth the price of admission alone.
Tell me you’re not ready for a good laugh. Hey, just read the newspaper!!
Loudon Wainwright lll His humor and engaging stage persona have made Loudon a cult figure and concert favorite world wide.
Throughout Wainwright's 35-year career, two of his albums, "I'm Alright" and "More Love Songs" were nominated for Grammy awards and many musicians have produced cover versions of his songs, including Johnny Cash's version of "The Man Who Couldn't Cry." An actor as well, he made three appearances on M*A*S*H as Capt. Calvin Spaulding, the singing surgeon and more recently he appeared in Martin Scorsese's "The Aviator". A superb singer/songwriter, Loudon will be celebrating the release of his 16th album, "Here Come The Choppers", during his appearance in The Big Room. Don't miss this truly unique, funny and inspirational performer. A guaranteed, "Night to Remember."
For additional information on Loudon Wainwright lll, please visit
www.lwiii.com
The Brubeck Brothers Quartet Expect elements of rock, classical, blues, funk and raggae in their approach to contemporary jazz.
The Brubeck Brothers Quartet is an exciting and talented jazz group, consisting of four versatile musicians - two of them members of one of America's most notable musical families. Dan (drums and percussion) and Chris (bass, trombone & piano) have received international recognition for their extraordinary music abilities. They are joined by longtime friend and phenomenal jazz guitarist, Mike DeMicco and pianist, percussionist and composer, Chuck Lamb. Chuck has performed with such diverse artists as Bela Fleck, Tuck & Patti, Ginger Baker and The Woody Herman Orchestra. Jazz returns to the Big Room and the Brothers Brubeck are definite proof that playing jazz is in the genes.
For additional information on The Brubeck Brothers Quartet, please visit
www.brubeckmusic.com
Chris Cain Band & Carlos del Junco Band Chris Cain and Carlos del Junco...We got da blues covered!!
Blues guitarist Chris Cain is one of our most requested Big Room performers. He combines monster guitar chops with a voice that makes you think you're sit'n in the back room of a Chicago blues joint in 1950. This is music that talks to your soul!! If you haven't heard Chris, here's a quote by a knowledgeable blues aficionado describing her first "Chris" experience. "I would have gotten up to dance, but I couldn't leave my seat, where I was mesmerized watching your hands conjure these amazing sounds from the guitar. And that voice...Blown away doesn't do it justice; I felt the blues in my gut, flowing through the base of my brain, and it was incredible." Couldn't have said it better myself. Also on the bill is the harmonica master Carlos del Junco and his killer band. Carlos del Junco is one of the most versatile and open-minded harmonica players to ever come down the line. One listen to the man and it's obvious he's in a class with such greats as Toots Theilmans, Paul Butterfield and Howard Levy. This is a blues double bill you don't want to miss. As always, get your tickets early.
subdudes New Orleans #1 party band comes to the Big Room.
Sweeping Offbeat magazine's 2004 awards for Best Band, the subdudes are anything but mild. Led by singer/guitarist Tommy Malone and accordionist John Magnie, this band draws inspiration from their native New Orleans, blending gospel, funk, R&B and blues with their own dynamite four part vocals. Bonnie Raitt calls them "as funky as they are original, all amazingly talented and soulful guys," while others compare them to Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young, or The Band. Their latest cd, "Miracle Mule", was named Best Album by a Louisiana Artist in 2004, and yet, according to Billboard magazine, the subdudes records simply can't capture the magic of their live shows. National headliners, the subdudes will host a Chico party, New Orleans style. A night to dance and howl, so get tickets early. This one will be too good to miss.
For additional information on subdudes, please visit
www.subdudes.com
Tommy Castro Band & Rod Piazza & The Mighty Flyers Two international blues superstars together for one big night.
This show is so big we're filming it for HD Net TV and recording it for Blind Pig Records. As Carlos Santana says of Tommy Castro, "This is the future. The blues is in good hands. This is the person who has the voice, the sound and the intentions, to touch everybody's heart." The Tommy Castro Band has quickly gone from being San Francisco's most popular bar band to international acclaim as one of the most compelling acts on the scene, with weekly appearances on national network television and headline slots at all the major blues festivals. As if that wasn't enough, also appearing are Rod Piazza & The Mighty Flyers.
After winning two consecutive W.C. Handy awards for Blues Band of the Year and also winning the Handy award for Blues Instrumentalist-Harmonica, Rod Piazza & The Mighty Flyers are one of the top drawing blues acts performing today. Guitarist Rick Holmstrom is a powerful presence soloing or comping, as is funky pianist Honey Piazza, a devoted Otis Spann disciple and multiple Handy Award nominee. Two headliners for the price of one. Please note that this show will be starting at 7PM instead of the usual 7:30PM so we can accommodate both headliners. Doors will open at 5:30PM. As always, get your tickets early.
The Wilders with special guests The Crooked Jades The Wilders are another Winfield Festival sensation!! They are a guaranteed crowd pleaser.
This Kansas City quartet plays like the barn is on fire, the horses are gone, and they don't give a damn. With fiddle, banjo, dobro, mandolin, guitars and bass, they breathe fiery life into the songs of the Louvin Brothers, Monroe Brothers, Maddox Brothers & Rose, and of course, the Stanley Brothers - hell, nearly every set of brothers except the Smothers. They are the newest "Midwest festival superstars" to come to the Big Room and they are a "need to see to believe" visual sensation. Also on the bill are The Crooked Jades. Headliners in their own right, The Crooked Jades are wild, wooly and totally unpredictable. They offer a seamless blend of American roots music that absorbs bluegrass, country, and early string band styles with remarkable fluidity. This should be one of the most talked about shows we've ever done. A true Hillbilly riot!! Be there.
The Jonny Lang Acoustic Band Tour 2005 Jonny had two platinum selling albums and a Grammy nomination by age 19.
Jonny Lang is the real deal. His talent belies superlatives. His extraordinary singing and guitar playing stamped him as a once-in-a-generation blues talent. Since his 1997 debut, “Lie to Me” at the age of 16, Lang has been on the road touring with Aerosmith, The Rolling Stones and B.B. King as well as personally headlining around the world. To quote the late Luther Allison, “Jonny Lang has the power to move the music into the next millennium by reaching the ears of a new generations. The great musicians have the power to break all of the ‘isms’ – race, age, sex, etc. Johnny Lang is one of those musicians.” Newsweek listed Jonny as one of the 100 Americans expected to be influential in the next millennium. Tickets will go on sale in the Pub on Monday February 21st at 8 AM. We are opening on Monday just to sell the tickets and we’ll close as soon as they’re gone. Since this is the smallest venue Jonny will be playing on his entire tour, I don’t expect to be open long. Please, a maximum of six (6) tickets per person. Jonny will be presenting a special acoustic blues show so it will be a sit-down event. Should be way too much fun!
For additional information on The Jonny Lang Acoustic Band Tour 2005, please visit
www.jonnylang.com
Magic Slim & The Teardrops Magic Slim & The Teardrops record live for Blind Pig Records.
This is the re-scheduled CD and filming that had to be canceled late last year due to illness. All is well now. This show sold out originally and I expect the re-scheduled show to sell out even quicker, as many were unable to get tickets the first time. Here the scoop on Magic and the gang.
Magic Slim and the Teardrops are the epitome of raw-edged Chicago blues. Slim's totally aggressive, rhythm-driven sound shows not a trace of slickness. His music carries on in the unvarnished style of the '50s and '60s Windy City blues masters, and he keeps that tradition alive.
Born on August 7, 1937 in Grenada, Mississippi, Morris Holt began in music as a piano player. After losing one of his fingers in a farming accident, he switched to guitar. In 1955, he moved to Chicago and played bass in his friend Magic Sam's band for a time before returning to Mississippi. It was Sam, the famed West Side bluesman, who dubbed his young pal Magic Slim. While living in Chicago, Slim absorbed the sounds and styles of the city's blues greats. Besides Magic Sam, he was strongly influenced by Muddy Waters, Freddie King and Otis Rush.
He cut his first 45 in 1966, and won a devoted following in the ghetto clubs, eventually taking over Hound Dog Taylor's spot at Florence's Lounge. His guitar work was tough and raw, and his roaring vocals were gruff and uncompromising. The Teardrops developed one of the heaviest grooves in the city, and the intertwining of Slim's lead guitar with insistent rhythm guitar grooves became the band's signature sound. In the mid-70's Slim began to hit his stride as a guitarist, performer, bandleader, and recording artist, launching a career that has taken him across the country and overseas to national and international recognition and acclaim. During the 80's, Slim released titles on Alligator, Rooster Blues and Wolf Records and won the first of his six W.C. Handy Awards. He and the Teardrops won the 2003 W.C. Handy Award as "Blues Band of the Year."
Slim's first album on Blind Pig Records, Gravel Road, was released in 1990. The album was well received by the press, garnering a passel of glowing reviews and landing on several year-end Top 10 lists. Billboard magazine said, "The well-traveled Chicago blues singer/guitarist is near the top of his form on this delightful album, which comes close to capturing the late-night ambience of Slim's live set."
In 1996, Slim's career came full-circle with the release of Scufflin' on Blind Pig, the title track being a remake of the song which began his recording career thirty years earlier. Living Blues said the album "should bring a smile to the face of even the most jaded listener." 1998's Black Tornado was released to similar accolades in both the blues and mainstream press. An Associated Press review noted that "Magic Slim has never been better than on Black Tornado and that is a lot to say." Downbeat called Slim "a true all star; a guitarist of considerable authority whose lines snap like a crocodile's mighty jaw and a singer with a persuasive capacity for wrenching every bit of emotion out of his lyrics."
Snakebite, Slim's fourth album for Blind Pig Records, was released in 2000. Critical reaction was typified by this quote in Jazz & Blues Report: "Slim sings and plays at a level that makes this among the best albums in a career spanning over three decades"
On Blue Magic, his latest release on Blind Pig Records, Magic Slim conjures up some raw, rocking blues magic. The high priest of blues voodoo taps into an elemental blues force that casts an enchanting spell on any lover of roots music. This is no-frills, unapologetic, straight-no-chaser, bewitching blues for the ages.
Slim's live performances have become legendary. Standing well over six feet, Slim cuts a commanding figure on stage, prowling the boards in his large cowboy hat, filling the room with his slash and burn guitar and booming vocals, commenting on the action throughout, slipping occasionally into a feral, Howlin' Wolf-like voice. Slim has an encyclopedic repertoire of hundreds of blues songs in his head, giving the live shows a charming impromptu quality. Slim's live shows are so electrifying that Eddie Vetter invited Slim to open Pearl Jam's concert in Chicago after catching the Teardrops' performance at a local nightclub.
Magic Slim is the greatest living proponent of the intense, electrified, Mississippi-to-Chicago blues style that spawned much of the music played by modern blues artists and rockers. It's no wonder that Magic Slim and the Teardrops, considered by many "the last real Chicago blues band," have become one of the busiest and best-loved blues bands around. As Blues Revue wrote, "Whoever the house band in blues heaven may be, even money says they're wearing out Magic Slim albums trying to get that Teardrops sound down cold."
For additional information on Magic Slim & The Teardrops, please visit
www.blindpigrecords.com
Tommy Emmanuel The Big Rooms favorite son is back for two big nights!!
Tommy Emmanuel is, without question, the most requested performer in the history of the Big Room. He will be joining us on Tuesday February 8th and Wednesday February 9th for two big shows. Tickets will go one sale on Monday January 17th in the Pub at 8 AM. We will be opening that Monday morning just to sell tickets and we’ll sell until they’re gone. (Took one hour last time.) We will be selling a maximum of six (6) per person and we ask that tickets be bought for one night only so the maximum number of guests can undergo the Tommy Emmanuel experience. Note that no tickets will be sold prior to 8 AM. If you haven’t seen Tommy, shame on you. If you have, share the experience with a friend or loved one. These two nights are all ages shows so let your young picker see the true potential of the guitar.
John Jorgenson Quintet Played Django Reinhardt in the movie "Head in the Clouds."
A living master of the guitar. John Jorgenson is so closely associated with the music of Django Reinhardt that he was tapped to play the role of the Gypsy jazz master in the film “Head in the Clouds”. John was a founding member of the Desert Rose Band, (five consecutive #1 singles, Two Grammy nominations), the Hellecasters, (Guitar Player Magazine voted the Hellecasters the Best Overall Guitar Album as well as Best Country Album) and has been a featured performer in Elton John’s band for more than six years. Besides Elton, John has performed with Roy Orbison, Little Richard, George Michael, Sheryl Crow, k.d. lang, Bob Dylan, Buck Owens, Sting, Hank Williams Jr., Rodney Crowell, Roger McGuinn, Melissa Etheridge, Don Henley, Steve Earle,…well, you get the point. All that said, John has been voted Nashville “Guitar Player of the Year” seven (7) times! I’m proud to present the Quintet for a magical musical evening in the Big Room and you can expect to hear an eclectic musical blend of Gypsy jazz, Dixieland, Swing, Latin, Classical and more. Did I mention that John has an engaging singing style and is a demon-like clarinet player? Get your tickets early.
For additional information on John Jorgenson Quintet, please visit
www.johnjorgenson.com
John McCutcheon Calling John a "folksinger" is like saying Peyton Manning is just a football player.
John McCutheon has emerged as one of America's most respected and loved folksingers. As an instrumentalist he is a master of a dozen different traditional instruments, most notably the rare and beautiful hammer dulcimer. No less a figure than Johnny Cash called him, "the most impressive instrumentalist I've ever heard." His twenty-seven albums/CD's have garnered every imaginable honor including an almost unprecedented five consecutive Grammy nominations. His commitment to grassroots political organizations has put him in the frontlines for many of the issues important to communities and workers. His storytelling style has been compared to Will Rogers and Garrison Keillor. This is a music event for the whole family. When I see John perform, I feel better for days afterward. Come experience John McCutcheon.
For additional information on John McCutcheon, please visit
www.folkmusic.com
Blues Blowout James Cotton, Charlie Musselwhite, Kim Wilson & Mark Hummel
If you only see one blues show all year, this is the one. Featuring four, count'em, four blues legends. James Cotton.
Born on July 1, 1935, James began recording at age 15. He was the featured harp player with Muddy Waters for twelve years. He's won more awards than you can count and he's in the Blues Hall Of Fame. Worth the price of admission alone.
Charlie Musselwhite. Memphis Charlie. The Man. Winner of Contemporary Blues Male Artist of the Year. Blues Album of the Year. Contemporary Blues Album of the Year. Instrumentalist of the Year. Worth the price of admission alone. Kim Wilson. Are you "Tuff Enuff?" Founder of The Fabulous Thunderbirds. Received Grammy nominations for "Tuff Enuff" and "Wrap It Up." Muddy Waters himself called Kim, "The greatest harmonica player to come along since Little Walter." I've been trying to get him in the Big Room for four years. Finally. Worth the price of admission alone. And last but not least, Mark Hummel and the Blues Survivors. Mark is one of the finest players on the planet and it is his effort that makes these types of shows possible. This is a one-time deal. Four legends, one show. I'm talk'n a Christmas present for the blues lover to die for. Be there.
New Year's Eve with Booker T. Jones New Year's Eve, Filet Mignon dinner and Booker T.
The Big Room is the only place to be on New Year’s Eve. And it falls on a Friday night no less. For the evening’s entertainment, can you say Booker T? Yes, Booker T. Jones, the king of the Hammond organ will be here with his killer quartet. Booker T is a musical legend and a member of the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame. For dinner, we’ll be featuring a full sit-down filet mignon dinner (other wonderful options available) tasty appetizers, great desserts, complimentary champagne just before mid-night, and great jazz to get the evening started. Doors will open at 7 PM and dinner will be served until 9 PM. Booker comes on the scene at 9:30 PM and plays for your dancing pleasure till it’s time to take it on home. Tickets are reserved seat only and must be purchased in the gift shop (so you can choose your seat in advance). Tickets go on sale Tuesday November 23rd at 10 AM and I expect an immediate sell-out so be organized please! Tickets are $75 for the whole package!! Nobody says “Happy New Year” like Sierra Nevada.
For additional information on New Year's Eve with Booker T. Jones, please visit
bookert.com/main/
Huey Lewis & The News Rhino Records will be filming and recording "Live @ 25"
This is a 25th anniversary DVD. Join us!!
Huey Lewis & The News.
Live @ 25 (This is the title of the DVD).
Sierra Nevada Brewing Company Big Room.
Two Big Nights. Tuesday December 14th and Wednesday December 15th.
This show is being filmed and recorded for Rhino Records in High Definition format for the Huey Lewis and the News 25th anniversary DVD.
This is 90+ minutes of Huey Lewis and the News greatest hits as played by the full 9-piece powerhouse band.
Show starts at 8:30 PM.
Ticket price $55.
The $55 ticket price is the same for seated and standing room. Actually, the standing room people will have the “best seat in the house” for up-close and personal viewing.
Tickets go on sale Monday November 29th at 8 AM in the Pub.
You may purchase in person or by phone using a major credit card. (530-345-2739)
Please be aware of the difficulties of getting in by phone as a phone order takes much longer than a cash purchase.
We will be selling two types of tickets.Approx. 200 sitting tickets per night (upper levels) & 200+ standing room only tickets per night. (On the dance floor, closest to the stage) People who purchase standing room only tickets must be prepared to stand in a crowded environment for the entire show. This is the segment of the attendees that will also be shown at times in the actual footage so please be look’n good and ready to party.
Max 6 tickets per person. Please purchase for one night only so that the maximum number of people can attend.
Doors for seated ticket holders will open at 7:15 PM. If you are not seated by 8 PM, your seat is up for grabs. Doors for standing room only will open at 8 PM. There will be two different tickets thus avoiding confusion and the difference will be made clear at the time of purchase.
We will not be serving food either night due to the expected expanded capacity and lack of total seating. Please eat prior (Think Taproom!). Also, due to the packing of the dance floor for the maximum “live” feeling, there will be limited cocktail service and limited bar access.
Remember the primary focus of the evening is the filming of the DVD.
This is a “once in a lifetime” opportunity to see a rock legend at the top of his game and to be part of a cutting edge quality DVD package.
Please be aware that the demand will far exceed the available tickets as there will be a large allotment of tickets going to the Bay Area (friends of Huey) and Rhino Records.
There will be many of you who want tickets, organize yourselves well, and still don’t get them. For that I apologize in advance. We’z just doing the best we can.
For additional information on Huey Lewis & The News, please visit
www.hln.org
Sonia Dada "Little Feat meets The Temptations"...9 piece power rock, soul, funk, gospel and R&B.
Sonia Dada has always been a bit of an experimental band. The players are five rock, jazz and blues musicians, while the singers are four gospel-tinged vocalists. Based out of Chicago, a fast and loose description of Sonia Dada’s music might be “Little Feat meets The Temptations.” That said, Sonia Dada remains basically a rock-and-soul fusion outfit, with some funk, alt-rock and R&B in the mix. Together for nearly 14 years with few lineup changes, the nine-piece Chicago rock-soul band has four lead singers: Michael Scott, Paris Delane, Sam Hogan and Shawn Christopher.
"Sonia Dada is a sweet beast of a band..9 members strong, with four great soul'n' gospel-flavored singers wailing harmoniously as a thumping, funked-up rock band scorches the ground behind them. The combination makes for one of the most dynamic live acts out there." The Philadelphia Daily News. Trust me when I say that this group is power personified. This show will be the “dance till you can’t dance no more” event of the season. 9 piece power funk and gospel….Get your tickets early
For additional information on Sonia Dada, please visit
www.soniadada.com
Hot Club of Cowtown They spent the summer as the opening act for the Bob Dylan/Willie Nelson tour. Keep'n good company!
This is the most exciting trio playing today. The Hot Club of Cowtown has played live at tiny hipster nightclubs and huge music festivals around the world. They have played the Cambridge Folk Festival in England, the Moulin Blues Festival in Holland, the Lincoln Center in New York and the Kennedy Center in Washington DC. In addition, they have toured Japan and Europe. The have also been featured on NPR's All Things Considered, Mountain Stage, E-Town and Garrison Keillor's A Prairie Home Companion. During their tour with Dylan and Willie, both headliners were so impressed that they both chose to sit-in with Hot Club during their opening set. At the Winfield, Kansas festival this summer, Hot Club was the hit of the event over Tommy Emmanuel. This is my can't miss, money back gaurantee, when have I ever steered you wrong, concert of the year!
Getting them into the Big Room has been a two-year process. Join me in seeing what all the hubbub is about.
The Waifs w/ Special Guest Erin McKeown The Waifs have become THE NEXT BIG THING!
The band of just three... sisters Vikki and Donna Simpson and Josh Cunningham, have become Australia's next independent record label phenomenon. The have more passion in their music than the entire catalogue of Helen Hunt movies. The response has been overwhelming everywhere. They've held the top spot for album sales at all the Canadian festivals where they performed this Summer; Canso (Nova Scotia), Winnipeg, Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton and Regina, and at the Newport Folk Festival (in Rhode Island) they set a record for sales for the entire history of the event. Opening the evening will be singer/songwriter Erin McKeown, once a member of one of my favorite groups ever, "Voices on the Verge." Now, she's a solo artist who Mojo magazine described as having "Bjork's girlishness with Rickie Lee Jones sophisticated confidence." Uncut Magazine says she's a mix of Rickie Lee Jones, Ani DiFranco, Dan Hicks and Tom Waits. She's toured with the Dave Matthews Band and performed on the CBS The Early Show. This is a Sierra Nevada special evening. Don't miss it.
The Kruger Brothers w/ special guests Mossy Creek From Switzerland, The Kruger Brothers headline festivals the world over.
"These are three of the finest musicians I've heard in many a day." Doc Watson. Featured member Jens Kruger is considered to be one of the finest banjo players on the planet. During their two previous sold out appearances in the Big Room, they've stunned the overflow crowds with their musicianship and delighted them with their unique brand of humor. This is a "must see" show for fans of traditional acoustic music! Opening the show will be local favorites Mossy Creek. Featuring some of Chico's finest pickers, Mossy Creek is on the verge of becoming Chico's next musical "big deal."
For additional information on The Kruger Brothers w/ special guests Mossy Creek, please visit
www.krugerbrothers.com
Magic Slim & The Teardrops 2003 W.C. Handy Blues Awards Band of the Year.
THIS SHOW HAS BEEN CANCELLED DUE TO MAGIC SLIM BEING ILL. REFUNDS ARE AVAILABLE IN THE PUB FROM 11AM UNTIL 9PM EACH DAY UNTIL THE SHOW. JUST BRING YOUR TICKET(s) PLEASE. SORRY FOR THE INCONVIENCE.
Born in Torrence, Mississippi, on August 7, 1937, Magic Slim stands as one of the greatest living proponents of the intense, electrified, Mississippi-to-Chicago blues style.
In 2003, Magic Slim was nominated for W.C. Handy Awards in the following categories: Band of the Year; Entertainer of the Year; Instrumentalist of the Year-Guitar; Traditional Album of the Year; Traditional Male Artist of the Year. As an added bonus, Blind Pig Records has chosen this concert to record and film as a DVD. This event is so big that we had to do it on a Friday night. Come take advantage of a rare weekend night concert in the Big Room.
For additional information on Magic Slim & The Teardrops, please visit
www.blindpigrecords.com
Charles Haynes & The Chico Jazz All-Stars An all-star lineup of Chico's finest players led by the multi-talented Charles Haynes.
It’s our annual Celebration Ale “Party in the Pub.” This special Monday night Pub event celebrates the 2004 release of our legendary Celebration Ale and features Charles Haynes & The Chico Jazz All-Stars for your listening and dancing pleasure. These folks are major players and I’m proud to be able to present them in an environment that will allow them to “turn it loose.” Doors open at 6 PM and the music starts at 7 PM. There will be limited seating (so get here early) and we’re featuring a special Celebration menu. Weather permitting the patio will be open. Tickets will be available only at the door of the Pub beginning at 6 PM. Come support Chico Jazz and Celebration Ale.
Wednesday, October 6, 2004
San Francisco Stand-Up Comedy Competition A final round performance of the 29th Annual $20,000.00 Stand-Up Comedy Competition
This is the event that launched the American stand-up comedy renaissance in the late ‘70s. Alumni of its early renditions include Dana Carvey, Ellen DeGeneres and Robin Williams. Recent participants who currently have major roles in TV shows include Jeff Garlin on “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” Laurie Kilmartin on “Tough Crowd” and Patton Oswalt on “King of Queens.” Every year, producers Anne and Jon Fox search the country for outstanding young comics looking for a career break. They have to deal with hundreds of applicants as it is widely known that doing well in this event can open doors in Hollywood. Just ask last year’s winner, Rob Pub, who went from obscurity in Edmonton, Alberta, to now having a role on MTV’s “Punked.” The producers have developed a sophisticated scoring system that grades each acts in such categories as stage presence, material, delivery, technique and audience response. This is no “Gong Show” and although it may have inspired “Last Comic Standing,” it is not a popularity contest but a serious effort to determine which contestant is actually the most talented. On this night, the five finalists, having survived preliminary and semi-final rounds held in the Bay Area, will each perform for 15-20 minutes. And a past finalist will act as emcee. Expect to enjoy one of the most hilarious evenings you have ever experienced.
The Peter Rowan & Tony Rice Quartet Two icons of American Roots Music.
Two American roots musical legends come to the Big Room. Peter Rowan has played with bands ranging from Bill Monroe and His Blue Grass Boys to Old & In The Way with David Grisman, Jerry Garcia and Vassar Clements. His high, lonesome voice is one of the most recognized in American roots music. Peter has forged a career by zigging and zagging through a variety of musical styles, including bluegrass, rock and roll, Tex-Mex, old-time country, Celtic, folk and reggae. Peter has penned such now-classic originals as “Panama Red,” “Midnight Moonlight” and “Land of the Navajo.”
Joining Peter Rowan will be Tony Rice. Once in a while someone comes along who creates such a strong and unique musical identity that he transforms the way others think about music itself. A musicians’ musician, Tony Rice epitomizes the best in bluegrass and acoustic music. Tony is perhaps the greatest innovator in acoustic flatpicked guitar since Clarence White. He has redefined the guitar’s role in bluegrass and raised the bar for a new generation of acoustic six-stringers. “Tony Rice is one of the greatest acoustic innovators of our time.” Ron Block, Guitarist/banjoist with Alison Krauss & Union Station. One night, two legends. It don’t get any better than this.
Marcia Ball Marcia Ball is the bayou queen of the piano.
Blues Entertainer of the Year...Contemporary Blues - Female Artist of the Year...Blues Instrumentalist of the Year - Keyboards. Contemporary Blues Album of the Year. "Raucous, Piano-based Dixie R&B...classic Southern songcraft and passion." Chicago Tribune. Singer/pianist Marcia Ball knows how to raise roofs and tear down walls with her infectious, intelligent and deeply emotional brand of Southern boogie, rollicking, roadhouse blues and heartfelt ballads. We will be filming Marcia and her cook'n band for our national PBS show, Sierra Center Stage. Join us!!
Rodney Crowell Rodney has been inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame.
Rodney Crowell is a giant among singer/songwriters. His newest album "Fate's Right Hand" has been nominated for Album of the Year and the title song is up for Song of the Year in the 2004 Americana Music Awards to be held in Nashville this September. "Livin', Lovin', Losin': Songs of the Louvin Brothers," which includes a duet by Rodney and Emmylou Harris, won the Grammy this year for Best Country Album. Critics at the Nashville Scene have picked Rodney Crowell as the "Best Veteran Country Artist" in their annual poll. Rodney and his band visit the Big Room for one night only. Be there!
Join us for an evening of world class Texas Swing Music. Their appearance last year was the stuff of legend and it sold out in less than a day. Asleep at the Wheel is the winner of nine grammy awards and it is one of the most exciting live acts ever to set foot on our stage.
Guy Clark Guy is king of the Texas singer/songwriters. Also featuring the legendary Ramblin' Jack Elliot.
Guy Clark’s been aptly described as a national treasure. Called the King of the Texas Songwriters, he is seen as the chief architect of the Texas songwriter genre known as the outlaw or Texas poet school. His songs have been recorded by Emmylou Harris, Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings, Jerry Jeff Walker, Vince Gill, Ricky Skaggs, George Strait, and the Everly Brothers. On his latest album, Guy joins forces with such musical legends as Gillian Welch & David Rawlings, Tim O’Brien and Darrell Scott. At 61, Guy is at the top of his game. Guy's performace last year in the Big Room was one of the best and most talked about shows of 2003. Ya had to be there.
He sold out early last time. Expect the same this year.
As a special treat, we've added Ramblin' Jack Elliot to the bill. After Woody Guthrie and Before Bob Dylan, There was Ramblin' Jack. "He left home at fifteen to join the rodeo where he leared to sing cowboy songs, but it was hearing his first Woody Guthrie record that transformed him into a wandering American minstrel. Since then he's traveled the world with his guitar and recorded more than forty albums, winning a Grammy and fans from Bob Dylan to Mick Jagger. In giving hew life to our most valuable musical traditions, Ramblin' Jack has himself become an American Treasure." President William "Bill" Clinton. Plus, we're filming this event for our successful PBS music series Sierra Center Stage. Come be a part of our nationally televised music show. Should be too much fun.
Karrin Allyson "There is no better female jazz singer right now than Karrin Allyson." Los Angeles Jazz
Karrin Allyson is on a roll. She was nominated for a Grammy last year for her excellent "Ballads-Remembering John Coltrane." Her album, "In Blue" recently set a record for jazz radio: It was the first album by a vocalist to be the most-played disc at jazz stations nationwide five weeks in a row. Karrin's newest album, "Wild For You," is considered to be her best yet! The London Times says, "no mere songbird-she shows a true musician's instincts." This should be a wonderful evening of jazz in the Big Room with Karrin and her quartet.
Lil' Ed & The Blues Imperials & Gary Primich Band Two national headliners for one big night of blues.
From smoking slide-guitar runs to raw-boned Chicago shuffles, to the deepest blues, five foot one inch Lil' Ed and his blistering, road-tested band, The Blues Imperials get wild and crazy every time they hit the stage. Between their wonderfully raucous music and Ed's flying leaps, his duck-walking through the audience and his sliding across the stage on his knees, it's no wonder the Boston Globe called Lil' Ed and The Blues Imperials "the world's #1 house rocking band." Also on the bill is Gary Primich, who's the five times Austin Texas harp player of the year.
Charlie Musselwhite calls him a modern master. Spotlight magazine hails Primich as "one of the best harp players alive." Chicago's New City declared his album Mr. Freeze as one of the 20 best blues albums of the 1990's. "With Gary and his band, you get one foot in the old school and the other in modern blues," says Down Beat. Two powerhouse blues band for the price of one. Join us.
Tommy Emmanuel The most popular performer ever to play the Big Room
Tommy's back!! Two big nights. His show's have sold out in less than 20 minutes so be organized please. He'll be here on Sunday July 18 & Monday July 19. Chet Atkins called Tommy "the world's greatest guitarist." That's good enough for me.
Tickets go on sale at 11 AM on Friday June 18. Limit 6 tickets per person per show. I expect to sell out both nights in less than an hour.
Jackie Greene Rolling Stone's Critics' Choice List "Top Ten Album of 2002"
At a mere 22 years, Jackie is quickly making a national name for himself. He won the California Music awards "Best Roots/Blues Album of 2003" and his name is being mentioned in the same rarified air as Dylan, Springsteen, Van Morrison, Gram Parsons, Tom Waits and Mississippi John Hurt. Dave Siglin, Executive Director of the Ann Arbor Folk Festival says, "Only two new artists in the past have astounded me more than the acts they opened for. Jackie Greene is one and Nora Jones is the other." He has done national tours with Buddy Guy, B.B. King, Taj Mahal, Richard Thompson, John Hiatt and he's opened for Lyle Lovett. He's wowed audiences at the Newport Folk Festival, The Strawberry Music Festival, The San Francisco Blues Festival, The Doheny Heritage Music Festival (LA) and many many more. This is a chance to see a legend in the making. Be able to say you saw him when he played the Sierra Nevada Brewing Company.
Mindy Smith Mindy is on the verge of becoming a country music superstar.
Nashville says she’s the next Nora Jones. Pardon me while I gush for a bit. This will be your one chance to see Mindy Smith before she “officially” hits the big-time. Let me give you an idea of what I’m talking about. PRIOR to her first CD being released, she’d appeared on The Tonight Show, was featured on CNN’s program, “The Music Room,” interviewed on NPR’s Morning Edition, made a guest shot on Conan O’Brien, was featured in Rolling Stone, highlighted in USA Today’s “On The Verge,” and chosen to be the lead-off single (Jolene) on the Dolly Parton tribute album, “Just Because I’m a Woman,” with contributions from Norah Jones, Sinead O’Connor, Melissa Etheridge, Alison Krauss, and others. “Even though Mindy is still young and new to the music business, I believe she will leave her mark as one of our greatest writers and singers ever,” say Dolly Parton. Amazon.com says of her first CD, “While the hype machine forever proclaims their or that new artist to be “unique,” “original,” or “a new fresh voice,” most of the time what you hear is more of the same old, same old. Thus, it is a rare joy to hear a newcomer who actually qualifies as all of the above.” I think I’m done. Nickel Creek played here early in their career, as did Gillian Welch and Tommy Emmanuel. This may be your one shot to see Mindy in a small, intimate environment such as the Big Room at Sierra Nevada for an affordable price. As an added bonus, Vanguard recording artist Garrison Starr will be opening the show. Garrison has toured with Melissa Etheridge, Mary Chapin Carpenter and Steve Earle. Garrison is a powerful singer and a thoughtful song writer and we're lucky to have her as part of this great show.
Del McCoury Band The most awarded band in bluegrass history!!
Last year the IBMA (International Bluegrass Music Association) nominated Del and the boys for 11 best of the year awards including entertainer of the year, vocal group of the year, instrumental group and song of the year. They sold out in five hours last time around. USA Today puts it best when they ask, "Is there anyone cooler than Del McCoury?" We expect to sell out in one day again so please be prepared.
Robert Earl Keen Texas roadhouse wisdom graces the Big Room in a rare small venue appearance.
It’s a true pleasure to announce the signing of Robert Earl Keen and his band of wandering Texas troubadours for a special evening of Texas Wildness & Wisdom this coming June. Armed with Guy Clark’s rich storytelling ability and Lyle Lovett’s weird sense of humor, Robert Earl Keen has created a niche for himself best described as hipneck-country. This is truly a rare small venue appearance. After playing Sierra Nevada, he’s been asked by The Dave Matthews band to join them on tour. As the Greenville, S.C. paper says, “Keen has earned a following that would make Deadheads take notice." Cool. This will be a one time chance so doesn’t miss out.
Buckwheat Zydeco "Buckwheat leads one of the best party bands in America."
The New York Times
Zydeco comes to the Big Room and it comes live and direct from Louisiana's Creole Country. The Wall Street Journal says, "Buckwheat and the band spit out the kind of crackling music that's been missing since the heyday of Stax Records." The Washington post adds, "In front of a sellout crowd, Buckwheat Zydeco delivered on their promise to play and keep'm dancing till closing time. A dynamic live performance." This band has won an Emmy, performed at both President Clinton's inaugurals and appeared on such TV shows as Letterman and The Today Show. I may have to require helmets. Should be way too much fun. Another "get your tickets early" Big Room event.
Mose Allison "Mose Allison is nothing less than a National Treasure." New Yorker
The legend comes to Chico. This is a must see show. "Mose is my man. I felt him to be the epitome of restrained screaming power." Pete Townshend "His piano style defies description, both because it cuts across the boundaries of jazz, Avant-garde, blues and swing." New York Times "I don't know any musician who doesn't love Mose Allison...his appeal cuts across all musical boundaries." Bonnie Raitt
One night only. Say you were there.
For additional information on Mose Allison, please visit
www.moseallison.com
Roy Rogers & The Delta Rhythm Kings "He absolutely shredded the crowd...and me too - the guy is frightening!" Bonnie Raitt
The slide master returns to the Big Room to help kick off the Sierra Nevada Brewing Company's PBS series, "Sierra Center Stage." I'll let others do the talking. "The guitar master is one of the greatest slide guitar players anywhere..." S.F. Chronicle "Considered by many to be the reigning master of the bottleneck slide guitar." Electronic Musician "Pundits who bemoan the scarcity of guitar gods haven't laid ears on Roy Rogers, whose slide riffs could peel a crawfish." USA Today Nuff said. Roy has sold out every appearance in the Big Room.
For additional information on Roy Rogers & The Delta Rhythm Kings, please visit
www.roy-rogers.com
Southern Culture on the Skids All the culture the South has to offer wrapped up and presented by one big-time party band.
Southern Culture on the Skids returns to the Big Room. A true party band, SCOTS can't help but be a walking, talking storybook of Southern folkways. Formed in 1985 in Chapel Hill, NC, they've become the stuff of dance-party legend.
With such successful albums as Too Much Pork for Just One Fork,Ditch Diggin', Dirt Track Date, Plastic Seat Sweat and Liquored Up and Lacquered Down, this is a show that will excite all the senses. Too much fun.
For additional information on Southern Culture on the Skids, please visit
www.scots.com
Sons of Champlin Featuring vocalist Bill Champlin, the Sons are one of the legendary soul-influenced S.F. bands.
Sons of Champlin was founded by Bill Champlin, long-time guitarist and keyboard player with the super-group Chicago. Their sound heavily favors soul-influenced material and employs a prominent horn section along with a wonderful collection of some of the best all-time S.F. players. They return to the Big Room by popular demand. Time to dance.
Will Durst The heir apparent to Mort Sahl and Dick Gregory. S.F. Examiner
Will Durst's identity crisis is not helped by the media. The L.A. Times calls him, "A modern day Will Rogers." The Chicago Tribune hails Durst as a "hysterical hybrid of Hunter Thompson and Charles Osgood." He is, without a doubt, America's premier political comic. His last visit to Sierra Nevada sold out quickly, so get your tickets early. I think you'll all agree....what's needed now is a good laugh.
For additional information on Will Durst, please visit
www.willdurst.com
David Wilcox "Gives singer-songwriters back their good name." N.Y. Daily News
David Wilcox is a unique and mesmerizing guitarist who writes songs draped in poetic lyricism with sincere folk sensibilities and soft jazz touches. Known for his intimate stage persona, he wraps these well-crafted tunes in his warm baritone voice. Should be a special evening in the Big Room.
"An eager, unapologetic sincerity flows from the heart of David Wilcox's acoustic music," says Rolling Stone.
For additional information on David Wilcox, please visit
www.davidwilcox.com
Pale Bock release party w/ Cafe R&B Pale Bock 2004 is out so it's time to party in the Pub.
Join us in the Pub to celebrate the release of Pale Bock 2004. "It's huge." Steve Dressler, Brewmaster.
We'll be featuring the dynamite blues band Cafe R&B, who’s guaranteed to bring down the house. "Roach's dynamite singing and the band's powerhouse playing add up to one killer show. Highly recommended." --Miles Jordan
“Café R&B got to Chicago and tore my place up." Buddy Guy “Imagine Etta James riding a Harley out of an active volcano and you’ll have some vague inkling of the power emanating from ROACH, the front woman of L.A. blues n’ groove outfit CAFÉ R&B” Hit Magazine Tickets go on sale at 6 PM the night of the show at the door of the Pub only! Great beer, great band, great time. Time to dance. Limited seating.
Special pub menu. Come early.
Darrell Scott w/ guests John Cowan & Nick Forster Three superstars of American roots music gather together for one magical night.
Darrell Scott, the ASCAP Songwriter of the Year in 2002 and the National Songwriters Association International Songwriter of the Year in 2001 is coming to Chico and he's bringing two of the mainstays of American roots music with him. Darrell, who's described by Garth Brooks and the Dixie Chicks as "one of the great writers of our time," is also a master of the guitar, dobro and mandolin. John Cowan, one of the founding members of the super group New Grass Revival is known simply as "the voice." He possesses arguably one of the the most powerful and emotive tenor voices in today's music. Nick Forster was a founding member of the legendary band Hot Rize. Nick supplied bass, vocals and guitar and was also well known for his exceptional ease and grace as the M.C. and host. Nick's been recognized by Rolling Stone Magazine as "an exceptional songwriter." This is a one-time opportunity to see these three roots superstars together on the same stage.
David Grisman & Martin Taylor Two of the greatest string players on the planet, together for one night only.
David Grisman, the Paganini of the Mandolin, has produced 48 critically acclaimed, high-quality recordings of acoustic music, five of which have been nominated for Grammy Awards.
Martin Tayor first came to prominence through his collaborations with the legendary Stephane Grappelli.
"THE acoustic guitarist of his generation." Acoustic Guitar Magazine. "Europe's finest guitarist." Jazz Times.
Don't miss this show!
Laurie Lewis Trio & Due West Two of the finest Americana Roots musical groups performing today.
Laurie Lewis along with Tom Rozum have established themselves as one of the finest, most diversely talented groups in traditional music. Due West combines five of today's hottest West Coast instrumentalists to produce a high octane bluegrass sound that's making waves nationally.
Also, for this show, Due West will be featuring special guest, fiddle monster Darol Anger. "Don't pass this group up!" David Grisman
Legends of the Blues Carey Bell, Cephas & Wiggins, Willie "Big Eyes" Smith, Lazy Lester, Rick Estrin and Mark Hummel.
This show features three original blues masters and two heirs apparent. Carey Bell, 68 year-old harp master was a member of two of the greatest blues bands of all time, the Muddy Waters Band and the Willie Dixon Band. Cephas & Wiggins are the premier Piedmont blues duo playing today. Add to that Willie "Big Eyes" Smith, Muddy Waters' drummer for 15 years; Rick Estrin, the harp monster from Little Charlie and the Nightcats; Lazy Lester, a true original himself and lastly Mark Hummel and the Blues Survivors, you have a night of blues that won't pass this way again.
Wednesday, December 31, 2003
The Elvin Bishop Band The Chicago legend Elvin Bishop on New Year's Eve
Gourmet sit-down dinner, The Elvin Bishop Band, and all the New Year's Eve trimmings. The Chico event of the year. Rousing, down-home, feel-good music...razor-sharp slide and spunky rhythms...a superb guitarist of great strength and skill...a rockin good time. Guitar World.
Reserved seats go on sale only in the Gift Shop Friday, November 28 at 11AM. Doors open at 7PM NYE night. Dinner will be served from 7:15 until 9:15. Smooth live jazz from 7 until 9. Elvin takes the stage at 9:30PM. Shop early to reserve the seats of your choice. The perfect Christmas gift for the one you love.
For additional information on The Elvin Bishop Band, please visit
www.alligator.com
Norton Buffalo is regarded around the world as one of the greatest harmonica virtuosos of all time. “A case of near bewildering talent…he plays harmonica with a virtuosity that has widened eyes and opened mouths throughout the music industry. No one else who puts a tongue to reed can touch him.” — The San Francisco Chronicle. For one night only, we'll be presenting Norton in all his musical configurations. He's bringing his acoustic group, The Norton Buffalo Acoustic Trio, his "in your face" boogie group, The Knockouts, and multiple guest stars. Join us.
Guy Clark’s been aptly described as a national treasure. Called the King of the Texas Songwriters, he is seen as the chief architect of the Texas songwriter genre known as the outlaw or Texas poet school. His songs have been recorded by Emmylou Harris, Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings, Jerry Jeff Walker, Vince Gill, Ricky Skaggs, George Strait, and the Everly Brothers. On his latest album, Guy joins forces with such musical legends as Gillian Welch & David Rawlings, Tim O’Brien and Darrell Scott. At 61, Guy is at the top of his game. We're proud to have Guy and his trusted sidekick Verlon Thompson perform here at the brewery.
For additional information on Guy Clark, please visit
www.guyclark.com
Blues Entertainer of the Year….Contemporary Blues – Female Artist of the Year….Blues Instrumentalist of the Year – Keyboards….Contemporary Blues Album of the Year. “Ball is the bayou queen of the piano, steeped in blues and honky-tonk. When revved…she’s a rollicking dynamo spewing heat-seeking triplets from the ivories while her horn-driven band wails.” Minneapolis Star Tribune “Raucous, Piano-based Dixie R&B…classic Southern songcraft and passion.” Chicago Tribune. “Rollicking, playful, good time blues and intimate, reflective balladry…her songs ring with emotional depth.” Rolling Stone
For additional information on Marcia Ball, please visit
www.rosebudus.com
Winner of nine Grammy Awards!! One night of fabulous Texas swing music. One of the most popular Texas bands of all time. Artists who’ve appeared on Asleep at the Wheel albums include Garth Brooks, Tracy Byrd, Vince Gill, Merle Haggard, Lyle Lovett, Willie Nelson, Dolly Parton, Bonnie Raitt, George Strait, Dwight Yoakam, Shawn Colvin and many, many more. Good company!!
Charlie Musselwhite A true living legend of the blues!
Without question, one of the true innovators of the blues harmonica. The list of past awards and current nominations is endless. He’s just been awarded “The Howlin’ Wolf” award from The Blues Foundation. He’s been nominated this year for two Grammys, “Best Contemporary Blues” CD for One Night In America and “Best Traditional Blues” CD for Preachin’ The Blues. On top of that he’s up for W.C. Handy Awards for “Contemporary Blues Male Artist Of The Year”, “Contemporary Blues Album Of The Year” and “Best Instrumentalist-Harmonica.” True legends are rare. Don’t miss Charlie and his band as they visit the Big Room for the first time.
Rhonda Vincent and the Rage The New Queen of Bluegrass.
Three-time IBMA Female Vocalist of the Year, 2001 Entertainer of the Year, 2001 Bluegrass Event of the Year, 2001 Album of the Year and 2001 Bluegrass Band of the Year. Featuring a cast of world-class musicians, Rhonda Vincent and the Rage headline music festivals the world over. Tickets go on sale May 9th in the pub. $20 Once again, get your tickets early. This is a show guaranteed to please the whole family.
For additional information on Rhonda Vincent and the Rage, please visit
www.rhondavincent.com
Gillian Welch & David Rawlings Their only Northern California Appearance.
Sierra Nevada is proud to announce that Gillian and David will be making their only Northern California appearance in the Big Room at Sierra Nevada. Gillian is a singer/songwriter gifted with a voice and sensibility far beyond her years. Her musical style is most commonly associated with the rural Appalachia of the early 20th century. Now teaming with David Rawlings, this duo is on the cutting edge of the American roots sound. Tickets go on sale Friday, April 18 at 11 AM in the Pub. Tickets may also be ordered over the phone by calling 530-345-2739. This show will sell out immediately so plan ahead.
For additional information on Gillian Welch & David Rawlings, please visit
www.gillianwelch.com
Terry Hanck fronts his red hot band featuring the Scandinavian whiz-kid guitarist Chris "Kid" Andersen. A bit of soul, a slice of swing, and the rock'n' roll side of New Orleans.
For additional information on The Terry Hanck Band, please visit
www.terryhanck.net
Nathan James & Ben Hernandez A wonderful Piedmont blues duo in the style of Sonny Terry and Brownie McGhee.
Nathan and Ben bring a youthful slant to the traditional Piedmont approach to the blues. Both are on track to become the future role models for up-and-coming players.
For additional information on Nathan James & Ben Hernandez, please visit
www.nathanjames.com
Paul Rishell & Annie Raines WC Handy Awards winners for "Best Acoustic Blues Album."
Paul and Annie continue the Sonny & Brownie tradition of duet blues. Paul, a master blues fingerpicker and Annie, one of the best female harp players on the planet, combine to create a sound steeped in tradition and long on fun.
For additional information on Paul Rishell & Annie Raines, please visit
www.paulandannie.com
Rod Piazza & The Mighty Flyers 1999 & 2000 W.C. Handy Award Winner: "Best Blues Band."
Their ability to keep the blues vibrant, fresh and alive has led to countless accolades and awards as they continue to lead the blues in new musical directions and into the 21st century.
For additional information on Rod Piazza & The Mighty Flyers, please visit
www.themightyflyers.com
Mollie O'Brien with Nina Gerber One of roots music's leading vocalists.
Mollie O'Brien with special guest Nina Gerber.
Mollie, without a doubt is one of the best interpretive singers of her generation. Along with Nina Gerber, Kate Wolf's guitarist of choice, this show presents two of the leading performers of the root music revival.
For additional information on Mollie O'Brien with Nina Gerber, please visit
www.mollieobrien.com
Ron Thompson & The Resistors One of the great blues guitarists working today.
Ron Thompson is a complete master of guitar technique and soul; he can whisper midnight and scream pain in the same song. Then, he will play dance music that forces you to move with him. An unforgettable experience.
For additional information on Ron Thompson & The Resistors, please visit
www.resistortwister.com
