Music and Concert News

June 29, 2009

2009 Kansas Music Hall of Fame inductee Danny Cox at this year's KCK Street Blues Festival

    After a year off, the Kansas City Kansas Street Blues Festival returned to large crowds this past weekend. Festival organizer Dawayne Gilley worked his butt off to make it a success. Click here: KCK Street Blues Festival presents 20 hours of music, all for free - Kansas City Star .

 

Acoustic Arts in the Park summer concerts in Wichita

    Kansas Acoustic Arts Association is presenting the fourth season of its Acoustic Arts in the Park summer concert series. The series consists of six concerts, each featuring three acts, in a beautiful, serene setting under the trees of Central Riverside Park in Wichita. The musical offerings cover a broad stylistic range, from bluegrass to tango, jazz to songwriting. Concerts are family-friendly and free to the public. The remaining dates are the second and fourth Saturdays of July and August. That's 11:00 am to 2:00 pm July 11 th , July 25 th , August 8 th , and August 22 nd , weather permitting. Scheduled performers for the remaining shows are:

• July 11 - Melodivas, Tom Page w/Dustin Arbuckle, Ragman's Wagon (followed by the annual membership picnic)
• July 25 - Uche, Robin Roberts, Clifton Street Bluegrass Band
• August 8 - Joe Stumpe, Tangoesque, Flatland String Band
• August 22 - Backporch Buddha, John Jenkinson, Stitch Miller

    For more information on KAAA, go to http://www.myspace.com/kansasacoustic or http://kansasacoustic.com .

 

More music news ...

    Her “Live and Alone” tour is going well for Melissa Etheridge , but she's about to take a break so she can return to the studio to work on her next album. Click here: Melissa Etheridge rocks solo performance at New Jersey Performing Arts Center - NJ.com . Click here: Casino Scene: Etheridge prepares for return to rock and roll : News : GoMemphis.com .

    2008's American Idol winner David Cook was back home last week, with shows in Wichita and Kansas City . Click here: 'Idol' winner, KC native a hit at Cotillion | Music | Wichita Eagle .

    Former Rainmaker Bob Walkenhorst and his musical partner Jeff Porter have a new album called No Abandon which has been selling well at their Wednesday shows and KC's Village Records. Now they've posted a very nice video online for the song “ Silver Lake .” Click here: Silver Lake Video by Walkenhorst and Porter - MySpace Video .
    To hear more of the album, visit their MySpace site. Click here: Walkenhorst and Porter on MySpace Music - Free Streaming MP3s, Pictures & Music Downloads .

    It appears that the Wichita band Outerboundary is trying to change the image of hip-hop in their hometown. Click here: Hope, healing and hip-hop | Wichita Entertainment - Restaurants, Movie Theaters | Wichita Eagle .

    Salina Journal writer Gary Demuth decided to ask some Salina musicians recently what they considered some of rock's indispensable albums. Click here: salina.com - an online service of the Salina Journal .

    Weather forced the City of Lawrence Summer Band Concert inside last week. The concert was moved to KU's Murphy Hall. While the heat and humidity was a concern, it was a line of thunderstorms moving it that prompted the change of venue. Click here: The band plays on: Diverse group of musicians returns to perform for another summer of Lawrence entertainment / LJ .

 

June 22, 2009

 

Martina McBride helps successful YWCA auction

 

Melissa Etheridge joins Board of cancer foundation

    2006 inductee Melissa Etheridge has joined the board of directors of the Noreen Fraser Foundation, which raises funds to develop new prevention methods and non-toxic therapies to defeat cancers in women. Click here: Melissa Etheridge Backs Cancer Foundation - Good Deeds, Melissa Etheridge : People.com .

    In other Melissa Etheridge news:

 

David Cook wraps up shows in Kansas

    2008 American Idol winner David Cook came back home over the weekend for shows in Bonner Springs and Wichita . Click here: Return of the Idol: 'American Idol' winner David Cook comes home to Kansas City / LJWorld.com .

 

Karrin Allyson in KC last week

    Great Bend native and long-time Kansas City resident Karrin Allyson was also back for two shows in KC last week. Click here: Jazz singer Karrin Allyson at her enchanting best in KC homecoming - Kansas City Star .

 

New release by The Blue Riddim Band

The Blue Riddim Band is getting good reviews for its new release Ska Inferno . Click here: Kansas City Music - Blue Riddim Band - page 1 .

 

Neon Blue reschedules release party for July 24

    Neon Blue had planned a release party at BB's Lawnside Bar-B-Que in KC for their appearance this Saturday. A mistake in the graphics for the CD has prompted a change of date and venue for the release party. The debut for Stories, Grooves & Melodies will now be downtown in the Crossroads district of Kansas City, MO, on Friday, July 24, at Bell Ringers.

 

Last week for Cowtown Ballroom documentary

    This is the last week for Cowtown Ballroom...Sweet Jesus at the Armour Screenland Theater in Kansas City .  < http://www.screenland.com/showtimes1.html >

And a very special finale--

 

 

Red, White and Blues fundraiser in Wichita on July 10

    A new event in Wichita will help kids in need of mentors. On Friday, July 10 th , Big Brothers Big Sisters will host Red, White and Blues . This fundraising event will include a note worthy selection of red and white wines paired with a delectable menu of hors d'oeuvres as well as entertainment provided by some of Wichita 's finest Blues musicians. Performers include: Prerequisite, RKO Blues Band, Craig Stewart, Rachelle Coba, AJ McCausland, Brendan O'Bryhim and more!

    The event's premier sponsor is SKT. Other sponsors include The Shadow, ROKict and the Wichita Business Journal. The Shadow has donated their space for this evening for ticket holders only.  Tickets are $50 per person and all proceeds will go toward matching children in Sedgwick County with Big Brothers and Big Sister mentors. Get a group of 10 friends together to attend and help take one c hild off the waiting list!

    For more information and tickets, contact Stacie Longwell at 263-3300 or www.slongwell@ksbbbs.org .

 

More music news ...

    While many area acts have been returning to perform for their long-time fans, KC rapper James Christos and his crew have hit the road. Click here: Kansas City Music - Highway to Hip-Hop: Kansas City rapper James Christos and crew pack up the van and hit the road .

    The Architects had a CD release party in KC this past Saturday, June 20. Click here: Kansas City Music - The Architects prepare to work their fourth release, The Hard Way, all summer on Warped Tour - .

    Winfield in internationally known for the Walnut Valley Music Festival each fall, but they're hoping their other music festival, The Winfield County Roundup , which was held this past weekend, becomes as successful. Click here: Winfield's other music festival | Wichita Entertainment - Restaurants, Movie Theaters | Wichita Eagle .

    The Wichita Symphony Orchestra has named a new conductor and music director for the 2010-11 season. Daniel Hege has been chosen to replace Andrew Sewell, who has announced his intention to step aside after conducting this year's season. The 43-year-old Hege is currently music director of the Syracuse Symphony Orchestra in New York . Hege is a 1987 graduate of Bethel College in North Newton , and he conducted the Newton Mid-Kansas Symphony Orchestra from 1993 until 2003. He has been a guest conductor in Wichita . His initial contract is for three season.

    Lawrence has a new music venue. Click here: Musicians to liven up overnight layovers at Santa Fe Depot / LJWorld.com

    Lawrence 's Harry Miller has opened Harry Miller Piano Serivice, a piano tuning and repair business, out of his home. Miller has played jazz piano at many Kansas City and Lawrence venues.

 

June 15, 2009

 

Upcoming Special Event!!
Hot Summer Night Fundraiser!!

June 18, 6 p.m. at The Barn Players Theatre, 6219 Martway, Mission , KS

    Featuring food, wine, a silent auction and great entertainment with multi-talented Kansas City native Eric Bikales, followed by a special performance of the musical farce LUCKY STIFF

    Have you ever wanted to take a private voice lesson? Or felt with just a little coaching, you could be a great actor? Well you can cross them off your wish list because we will have these auction items as well as art work, tickets to plays and other events around the city and much, much more at the Barn's Hot Summer Night Fund Raiser on Thursday, June 18th. The fun begins with wine and light food at 6:00 p.m. preceding the silent auction.

    Next is a private piano concert by Kansas City native, Eric Bikales. Eric has played with The Pointer Sisters, Tom Wopat and Neil Sedaka. His experience ranges from studio work to TV, composition to producing. And as if THAT wasn't enough, you may then watch a performance of the family musical LUCKY STIFF . A full evening for only $20 a person. There are only 150 seats available so reservations are recommended.

    Make your reservations now by calling 913/432-9100 or by visiting www.thebarnplayers.org

 

KMHOF Inductee Tim Ballard has passed away

    The Kansas Music Hall of Fame has lost an inductee with the recent passing of Tim Ballard , who was inducted with Garry Mac & The Mac Truque in 2008. Dallas Morning news Obituary

 

Memorial for Wichita guitarist David Keller on Wednesday

    David Keller, guitarist for the Benders, was killed in a wreck Saturday, June 13, while they were on their way to a gig.   His memorial will be held at 2pm Wednesday at the Northwest Free Methodist Church at 3224 N. Tyler Road in Wichita.

 

Cancer survivor Melissa Etheridge talks about medical marijuana

    Is there a case for medical marijuana? CNN's Anderson Cooper tackles the topic tonight, June 15, on his AC360 special America 's High: The Case For and Against Pot . Among those to be interviewed on the subject is KMHOF inductee Melissa Etheridge , who says medical marijuana helped tremendously during her battle with cancer. Click here: Anderson Cooper 360: Blog Archive - America's High: The case for and against pot « - Blogs from CNN.com .

 

Martina McBride's has new single and video

    Martina McBride 's current single “I Just Call You Mine” is doing well on the charts, and Martina has shot a video for the song.

    According to Martina, “It turned out amazing! So pretty. I think you are really gonna love it. I think it comes out next week. I love this song. Keep requesting it when you get a chance.”

 

More showings for Cowtown Ballroom...Sweet Jesus

    You still have an opportunity to see Cowtown Ballroom...Sweet Jesus on the big screen (or to see it again!).  It opened Friday, June 12, at the Screenland Armour Theater, 408 Armour Rd, North Kansas City . If you haven't seen the newly renovated theater, you really should.  The Screenland Armour was reborn in May of 2008 after a $1.5 million dollar makeover. The theater offers 300 plush, stadium seats, including a section of red leather recliners. The concessions will make you forget that you are in a movie theater.with a full menu including chicken quesadillas, hummus with pita, baked brie, chicken fingers, french fries and more. And they have something that Cowtown could never offer--a full bar!  It is just a few blocks north of downtown KC.  If you can't make it, the DVD of the movie is available at the Cowtown website www.cowbr.com .

 

John Elefante plans new release

    John Elefante, former lead singer for the band Kansas , and his band Mastedon have a new album coming out in Europe on the Frontiers label. The new release will come out in North America on a different label (as yet to be named), as being by John Elefante “with Mastedon.” It will have a different cover, too, but no additional cuts. John is better known in the USA as a solo artist, which explains the differences in the release plans.

 

More music news ...

    The U.S. Air Guitar Championships rolled into Kansas City last week. Hall of Famers Bjorn Turoque and Hot Lixx Hulahan were looking for the next generation of air guitarists. They found budding air axe man Mean Melin, who won a spot in the national championships in Washington , DC .

    The Fort Larned Post Band is looking for instrumentalists for ist Summer 2009 season. Any instrumentalist from the Larned/Great Bend area, or who is willing to travel to Fort Larned , is encouraged to apply. There is a need for all brass, clarinet, flute and percussion players. The band rehearses from 7-8:30 Saturday evenings in June and July. Two evening concerts will be held July 4 and August 8. The band is part of the National Park Service's Volunteer-in-the-Parks Program. If you're interested, contact band coordinator Zack Corpus at 620-285-6911.

    The 2009 Pitch Music Awards nominees have been announced. The number of categories has been increased from 16 to 21 this year. The awards show is scheduled for August 8 in Kansas City . For a list of the nominees and to vote, Click here: Kansas City - Wayward Blog - The 2009 Pitch Music Awards Nominees Announced!

    Kansas City rapper Mac Lethal seems to be doing better than most of the locals these days, and he's working on a new album. Click here: Kansas City . Click here: Kansas City - Wayward Blog - Mac Lethal on Daytrotter .

 

June 8, 2009

 

Eric and the Norsemen reunion set for August 29

2006 KMHOF inductees Eric and The Norsemen will reunite when they hold a ?Norsemen Reunion and Fan Appreciation Night? on August 29. The show will be at RC's in Martin City, on the south side of Kansas City, MO. More details will follow in the next few weeks.
Not only is this a rare opportunity to see the group - this is only their third performance in the last 40 years - but it a chance for fans to see six of the seven original Norsemen together for the first time.     Roger Johnson, Mike Willman, Jim Kocher, Tree Cloud, Frank Berrier, and Mitch Bible have all committed to the show and will be joined by 2006 Norseman Dennis Frans on keyboards.
	Prior to the 2006 induction ceremony, the Norsemen had not performed since 1968.     Visit ericandthenorsemen.com for stories, photos and videos of the band. And start making your plans to be at RC's on August 29 for what promises to be a special night.

 

Melissa Etheridge joins Hollywood celebrities for enlightenment

The first meeting of the Global Alliance for Transformational Entertainment was held last Friday night, June 5, in an auditorium on the Fox Lot in Studio City , CA . Spiritual teacher Eckhart Tolle and actor/comedian Jim Carey headlined the more than three hour event, which also featured an address by KMHOF inductee Melissa Etheridge, who received a standing ovation when she finished.     Click here: Hollywood hippies unite! Jim Carrey, Eckhart Tolle reveal the power of yawn and plot global betterment --The Live.

 

Kelley Hunt and Delbert McClinton in KC on July 10

2006 inductee Kelley Hunt has managed to balance local performances with national touring. Just announced is a show at KC's Uptown Theater July 10 featuring Kelley and Texan Delbert McClinton. Kelley and Delbert sang the duet ?Deal With It? on Hunt's New Shade of Blue album in 2004, which was producted by Baldwin native Garth Fundis and Gary Nicholson in Nashville .     Kelley & Delbert have appeared in concert together several times including a previous show at the Uptown. Their July show should sizzle.

 

Martina McBride to host Nashville Fan Fest auction on June 13

The YWCA Celebrity Auction with Martina McBride will once again be a part of Fan Fest week in Nashville! The event takes place on Saturday, June 13 at Hall of Fame Park.  Admission is free and registration starts at 9:00 am. Grab bag sales start at 10:00 am and the Auction will run from 10:30 am until 3:00 pm.      We hope you can join Martina and emcee Storme Warren, host of GAC's "Headline Country" for an afternoon of bidding on great one-of-a-kind items donated by some of country music's hottest stars!

 

Cowtown Ballroom film in theaters and on DVD

We've mentioned the documentary film Cowtown Ballroom?Sweet Jesus several times, and it now seems that opportunities to see it on ?the big screen? are limited as the runs at two Kansas City theaters are scheduled to end on June 11.     The DVD of the film is supposed to become available today on the website www.cowbr.com .

 

More music news ...

    Sad news hit the Kansas Music Hall of Fame family last week when we learned of the passing of Pam Loewen of Lawrence from lung cancer. Pam was the wife of Denny, the longtime leader of the Fabulous Flippers. A wonderful wife and mother, she died at her home Tuesday, and services were on Saturday. www2.ljworld.com/obits/2009/jun/04/Pamela-loewen .

    Kansas City jazz vocalist Deborah Brown is one of many area musicians better known overseas than locally. The Kansas City Star published a recent interview with the singer on Saturday. Click here: KC jazz vocalist Deborah Brown reflects on the influence of her hometown - Kansas City Star .

    Another area singer, who had to leave town to achieve success, is Lawrence 's Lisa Donnelly . Lisa was back in town over the weekend to promote her new album. Click here: With solo album, Lawrence's Lisa Donnelly finds success in L.A. - Kansas City Star . Click here: L.A. woman: Lawrence native Lisa Donnelly perfects her music ?Thing' in Hollywood / LJWorld.com .

    About two dozen metal bands rocked KC's Beaumont Club this past Saturday, June 6, including a reunited Esoteric . Click here: Kansas City Music - Local hardcore heroes the Esoteric reunite for American Waste and, if all goes well, for good.

    Speaking of KC hard rockers, Jeff Scheetz will be in Florida this week shooting a new video course called the ?Ultimate Jam Night Survival Guide.? This course will be packed with essential grooves and licks to get anyone up to speed on what it takes to get up and jam with confidence and style. Jeff and his band have several upcoming shows scheduled a special one at the Eclipse Bar in Raytown, MO, which will feature a set of all Jimi Hendrix music.

    One of Wichita 's old blues bands Gravy From the Hip has decided to reunite for a show on Saturday, June 20. It's going to be a benefit for Hope in the Valley Equine Rescue. Made From Scratch, The Sharon Rush Band, Carrie Nation and the Speakeasy, Blazmo and acoustic guitarist Levi Fowler will also be performing.
     For more info visit : www.hopeinthevalley.weebly.com/benefit-concert.html .

 

 

June 1, 2009

 

Kustom Kollectors meet in Chanute on June 27

    There will be a gathering of Vintage Kustom Equipment Kollectors in Chanute on June 27. Activities at the Chanute Country Club (Quarry Stone) will start at 10 am. This will be an opportunity for the collectors to visit the town where Kustom gear was made for years and to visit with former employees. Kustom founder (and KMHOF inductee) Bud Ross and his family will be attending. Collectors attending include Garth Brooks' keyboard player Dave Gant and Don Thompson from Michigan , who ran a music store that sold a lot of Kustom equipment in the 60s & 70s. The all-day event will be capped off by a music jam that starts at 8:00 that evening. For more information about the club and the convention, visit www.vintagekustom.com .

 

KC Blues Festival set for June 26-27

    The 9 th Annual Kansas City Kansas Street Blues Festival will be held June 26-27 at 13 th and State Avenue . This free event takes place each year since 2000 on the last Friday & Saturday in June. This year's lineup consists of a mix of down-home urban electric blues, acoustic blues, southern soul, funk, jazz and rhythm & blues. Take your lawn chairs and coolers, and enjoy the music and food. Vendor concessions will be available all day. Check out the lineup and schedule at www.kckstreetbluesfest.com .

 

KEYN Summer Concerts set in Wichita

    The KEYN Summer Concert Series of free concerts returns to Wichita 's Old Town this summer. Greatful Not To Be Dead kicks things off on July 10, followed by Big Fat Fun (July 17), King Midas & The Muflers (July 24), Blue Eyed Soul (July 31), Three Ring Circus (August 7) and Rain (August 14). The free Friday night concerts start at 8 pm.

 

Danny Cox returns to Lawrence on June 19

Danny Cox returns to Lawrence this summer for his second time is less than a year. Cox was inducted into the Kansas Music Hall of Fame in March, and he returns to Liberty Hall June 19 as the opening act for Mike Farris & The Roseland Rhythm Revue. This exciting Nashville based performer has been getting great reviews... Click here: Mike Farris, INO Records recording artist | Music, Salvation In Lights audio, Goodnight Sun audio .

 

Pat Metheny releases new album     KMHOF inductee Pat Metheny has a new album out that recalls his early days with The Gary Burton Quartet.     Click here: Pat Metheny relives quartet's glory on new CD - Kansas City Star .

 

More music news ...

    Band Together , a show featuring three of Wichita 's favorite bands is this Friday, June 5, at the Cotillion. Lotus, The Fabulous Shitheads and Grateful Not To Be Dead will be playing for the benefit of the Mental Health Association of South Central Kansas.

    Another benefit at the Cotillion this summer will be The Flicker Lounge 80s Band Reunion Bash on Saturday, August 22. The Sleepy Truckers featuring members of Dear John, In/Out, Film @ 11, The Catch & Room Full of Walters, and Dogs? will be playing to benefit the American Cancer Society. Click here: The Flicker Lounge 80's Band Reunion Bash .
    Ticket info for both shows is available at www.thecotillion.com .

    Music, history and summer mix this summer in McPherson. Click here: Hutchinson News Online .

    New York painter Eric Fischl is planning a touring exhibition of art, music, theatre and poetry for next year. Among those already getting involved is KMHOF inductee Melissa Etheridge . Click here: Eric Fischl wants artists involved in shaping American identity | Culture Monster | Los Angeles Times .

    Starting this past Sunday, May 31, Winslow's in KC's River Market began a free weekly open blues jam. Billy Ebeling and the Late for Dinner Band hosted the first week. Next Sunday will see Millage Gilbert & the Blue Rays will host.

    A former KU choir director has a new group. Click here: Direct hit: Popular former KU choir director readies new professional group for Lawrence debut / LJWorld.com .

 

May 11, 2009

 

There's going to be a Flippers dance!

    Danny Hein and his current lineup of Fabulous Flippers will be playing the Municipal Auditorium in Hutchinson , KS , on Friday, June 12. Danny will be joined by Roger Lewis and a band featuring five horns and five rhythm players. There will be several other original members of the band attending or performing. For tickets, contact the Fox Theater in Hutch at 620-663-5861.

    In other Fabulous Flippers news, a second video from the original band has been uploaded to YouTube. “Tell the Truth” joins the previously posted “Harlem Shuffle.” www.youtube.com/watch?v=NyW7bY7DMMU .

 

May 24 benefit concert for family of late Eric Lira

    A benefit concert for the late Eric Lira 's family will be held on Sunday, May 24, at the Lessman Farm, 4124 NE Briar Road, Topeka, to help defray the many bills left behind that insurance did not cover. So far the following bands have signed up to play: The Bus Company (from Lawrence), Another Day Gone (from Holton), Josh Vowell & The Rumble (from Topeka), The Black Tuxedos (from Emporia), Hellbent (from Topeka) and 12 Years Coming (from Salina). For more information, visit http://topekatonight.smugmug.com/gallery/8164689_NRb3T .

 

May 16 birthday celebration for Kevin (the Legend) Davis

    Coming this Saturday, May 16, to RC's at 135 th & Oak in Martin City on the south side of Kansas City is a birthday party for Kevin (the Legend) Davis . Kevin has played guitar for many KC bands, including Nation, JT Cooke, The Secrets*, The Janet Jameson Band, and Albert Flasher. Join the fun as They Only Look Familiar and many of Kevin's friends celebrate his turning 72.

 

Cowtown Ballroom ... Sweet jesus opens May 22

 

Beth Scalet selected as finalist for Independent Music Awards

 

Walterpalooza 2009 in Lawrence on June 7

    Walterpalooza 2009 is coming to Lawrence on June 7 at Liberty Hall from 4-9 pm. John Naramore will host the event which will feature music by the Pete Wyman Allstars & Zydeco Tougeau. There'll also be bingo and a silent auction. This rollicking good time is a fundraiser to create a trust for an Accessible Transportation Vehicle for Kent Smalter, who has ALS. For more info, visit www.walterpalooza.com .

 

More music news ...

    David Cook returned to the stage Friday night after taking time off to deal with his brother's recent death. Click here: David Cook Returns to Work .

    Kansas City's Ronald White had the same choices facing many of the young people on the city's East Side, and it looked at one point that prison would be in his future, but he reinvented himself as the rapper Ron Ron, and the future looks a whole lot brighter now. Click here: Kansas City Music - After a wild youth on Kansas City's East Side and run-ins with the law, Ronald White reinvents .

    Kansas returned to the Sunflower State for a show in Wichita last Friday night, and a few days before the event, guitarist Rich Williams talked by phone with the Wichita Eagle 's Ed Condran Click here: KANSAS | River Festival | Wichita Eagle .

    Also returning to the area over the weekend was former KC pianist Eldar , who played in KC Friday and Saturday and in Topeka Sunday. He'll be recording a live album in New York this week.

 

May 4 , 2009

 

David Cook loses brother to cancer

    American Idol winner David Cook has lost his brother to brain cancer. Adam Cook died early Sunday morning in Indiana . Click here: David Cook's brother Adam dies of brain cancer - Kansas City Star .

 

Cancer documentary features "I Run For Life" by Melissa Etheridge

 

Kansas symphony concert DVD coming in August

    Remember the Kansas Concert and DVD shoot at Washburn University in February? It looks like the DVD release date will be in August. Click here: BLABBERMOUTH.NET - KANSAS To Celebrate 35th Anniversary With Live Symphonic DVD .

 

More music news ...

    Two years ago Merle Zuel , the doorman at KC's Knuckleheads Saloon, received a liver transplant that saved his life. To celebrate that life, the second annual MerleJam was held over the weekend to benefit others needing transplants. Click here: As thanks for heart transplant, Merle Zuel creates benefit show at Knuckleheads - Kansas City Star .

    As reported earlier, the economy has been rough on area music festivals . Click here: Economy deals a blow to KC festival calendar - Kansas City Star .

    The Midwest Music Foundation , a newly formed Kansas City group dedicated to local music and helping area musicians in need, kicks off its “Stay Tuned” concert series next Friday, May 8, at Davey's Uptown Ramblers Club. The MMF is also working on starting a TV show similar to Austin City Limits . For more info visit www.midwestmusicfoundation.org .

    Brad Cox and the People's Liberation Big Band , a fixture on the Kansas City music scene since 2006, took aim at the classic film Battleship Potemkin last Friday night. Click here: Kansas City Music - Brad Cox and the People's Liberation Big Band aim a jazz warhead at classic film Battleship Po . Check out a review here: Click here: Back to Rockville: Review: 'Potemkin' meets Liberation band .

     Lawrence's Martin-Logan , the high end speaker company, is having a benefit concert for one of its employees this Saturday, May 9, at Liberty Hall.  Rick Carr has been diagnosed with intestinal cancer.  The bands playing will be the Midday Ramblers, Doofus and the Kingstonians.  Both bands have M-L employees playing in them.  There will be a raffle with items including Martin Logan speakers, prints by Tim Forcade and memberships in the Lawrence Athletic Club.

 

April 27, 2009

 

Wichita Blues Crawl rescheduled to May 3

    The Wichta Blues Society's Spring Blues Crawl has been rescheduled to Sunday, May 3rd. Same time, same venues, same $5 cover for all of the band; with a few different bands:

 

 

Cowtown Ballroom documentary opens on May 22

 

More music news ...

    American Idol 's 2008 winner David Cook performed in Kansas City twice last year in May during his run on the TV show, drawing about 7000 fans to the Power & Light District, and in August, when he sold out the Sprint Center. Last Wednesday, he was back in his hometown for a more intimate show at the Ameristar Casino. Click here: David Cook comes home to a warm reception - Kansas City Star .

    KC vocalist Oleta Adams released her latest album on April 21, and it's selling well. Let's Stay Here is her first pop and soul album since 2001. The title track is getting a lot of attention, and the CD includes Adams ' cover of Nina Simone's " Feelin' Good," which was used in Buick's 2007-08 ad campaign. She was the headliner last night at Unity Temple on the Plaza at the Kansas City Youth Jazz fundraiser. Check out the other dates of Oleta's current tour on our calendar.

    The Star 's Joe Klopus was excited in his column last Wednesday about the young people who are getting into jazz these days and had a lot of good things to say about KCYJ. Click here: Kansas City Youth Jazz organization molds a new generation of musicians - Kansas City Star .

   The Architects played two nights at KC's Czar Bar over the weekend to celebrate their new album The Hard Way . The band will spend the summer touring as part of the Warped Tour, which kicks off in Pomona , CA , on June 26. The tour stops at Sandstone Amphitheater in KCK on August 4 and finishes 46 shows in 59 days in Los Angeles on August 23.

    Greg Enemy is looking for his old-school hip-hop sound to bring him success. He gave the local crowd in KC a sample last Thursday at the News Room. Click here: Kansas City Music - Newcomer Greg Enemy has 20/20 vision when it comes to KC hip-hop - page 1 .

    Indie-rockers The Cherry Tree Parade were at Crosstown Station on the same night, and will be at the RecordBar this Wednesday, April 29. Click here: Kansas City Music - Wild, young indie-rock band the Cherry Tree Parade blossoms with a digitally enhanced sound -.

 

April 20, 2009

 

 

Native Window announces tour dates

    The Kansas offshoot Native Window, in addition to finally releasing their debut album soon, will be opening for some dates on Kansas' current tour: 

Date	City	State	Venue
4/25/09	Patchogue	NY	Performing Arts Center
6/13/09	Joplin	MO	Landreth Park
7/24/09	Merced	CA	Fair
8/23/09	Rochester	MN	Mayo Civic Center

 

Danny Cox and Michael Brewer team up for gospel show on April 26

 

 

Steve Pinkston releases new CD

    One of the Hall of Fame's earliest members, Steve Pinkston, who now lives in Molalla , OR , has a new CD out called Sometimes Things Work Out. It features ten of Steve's original works and an accomplished mix of talented jazz and classical musicians from Oregon and Kansas . The CD can be purchase from CD Baby ( www.cdbaby.com/cd/pinkstonandfriends ). MP3s of individual tracks can be previewed and downloaded at Amazon.com, Digstation, and other outlets. Just search for Steve by name. Additional information is available at www.fin-de-mundo.com/STWO.shtml .

 

More music news ...

    This year's Rhythm & Ribs festival in Kansas City has been cancelled for lack of funds. Scheduled for June 19-20 in KC's 18 & Vine Jazz District, organizers hope to be back with a fifth festival in 2010. http://www.kansascity.com/637/story/1152410.html .

    Kansas City 's Sprint Center has proved to be one of the busiest venues in the country. http://www.kansascity.com/business/story/1145005.html .

    The Kansas City Star keeps Timothy Finn busy as Tim recapped in last Wednesday's issue. http://www.kansascity.com/entertainment/story/1142615.html .

    On Friday Tim speculated on the success of National Record Store Day . http://www.kansascity.com/entertainment/story/1148237.html .

    The Pitch 's Jason Harper 's is always out and about in Kansas City , too. http://blogs.pitch.com/wayward/2009/04/a_good_night_at_crosstown_star.php# .

    The Billions were together for 13 years, but it came to an end this past Saturday in KC. http://blogs.pitch.com/wayward/2009/04/interview_after_13_years_the_b.php# .

    One of our favorite places in Kansas City is UMKC's Marr Sound Archives . A short film called Momentum & Marr will be showing this Friday, April 24, at the KC Film Fest. http://blogs.kansascity.com/tvbarn/2009/04/kcs-aural-history-on-kcpt-thursday.html .

    Kansas City singer-songwriter Barclay Martin played over the weekend at the All Souls Unitarian Universalist Church in KC. Martin is also a filmmaker, having made a documentary about putting on a concert in the Philippines . Click here: Kansas City Music - Kansas City singer-songwriter Barclay Martin braved separatist violence and deadly snakes to m .

    Leavenworth native Randy Sparks returns home this week and brings the New Christy Minstrels with him. http://cjonline.com/life/arts_entertainment/2009-04-19/minstrels_coming_to_kansas .

    14-year-old organist Riley Dunn of Lee's Summit , MO , won the youth division of the Roland Atelier Organ Fest in Los Angeles back on March 27 with less than six months of lessons. While he sees music in his future, he doesn't plan to play professionally, as he'd rather be a marine biologist. http://www.kansascity.com/entertainment/music/story/1145104.html .

    Kansas City area resident and Wichita State University graduate Joyce DiDonato returns to Kansas next weekend to perform the role of Rosina in the Wichita Grand Opera's production of "Barber of Seville." http://www.hutchnews.com/Preview/operasinger2009-04-16T21-06-15 .

    With this being prom season across the state, a lot of schools and administrators are faced with a problem on the dance floors as Gary Demuth reported in yesterday's Salina Journal . http://www.saljournal.com/news/story/Prom-Dancing-4-19 .

 

 

The Classmen at Vinyl Renaissance on April 18

    2008 inductees The Classmen will make a rare live appearance at the Kansas City record store Vinyl Renaissance at 1:00 on April 18. Everyone attending can pick up a free Classmen 45 while there. At 2:00 Lee Dresser of the Krazy Kats will perform an acoustic show and sign copies of his book. This is all part of a national celebration of vinyl recordings and a great opportunity to add to your collection with thousands of LPs and 45s selling for just a quarter apiece.

 

Native Window set for May release

    Native Window, the side project of most of the band Kansas , has their debut album almost ready for release. They've been mixing it at Jeff Glixman's studio for a couple of months, and plan a May 2009 release. The band will be doing a Rockline radio show to support it.

 

Wichita Blues Crawl on April 26

    The Wichita Blues Society's Spring Blues Crawl is coming April 26 in Old Town . The price is just $5.00 for an evening filled with music. From 6-9 pm you can roam around the clubs and restaurants surrounding the Farm and Art Market. Enjoy the following performances:

 

More music news ...

    After playing for eight years as Distance to Empty, Kansas City rockers have taken on a new name and have a new self-titled CD called Antennas Up . Click here: Kansas City Music - Distance to Empty sheds its cover band and prog personas and comes fresh and funky as Antennas .

    Another Kansas City band, The Doghouse Daddies, take their combination of blues and swing to Lincoln , KS , on April 18. Click here: salina.com - an online service of the Salina Journal .

    Lawrence songwriter Charles S. McVey had a CD release party for his new album Animal last Friday night. Click here: Charles S. McVey CD release show / LJWorld.com .

    KC's Celtic rockers The Elders have been teasing about a cruise for some time, and it's finally starting to become a reality. The 2010 Irish Festival Cruise will be February 6-13. In addition to The Elders, the music lineup will include Ennis, Mary Black, The Black Brothers, Johnny McEvoy, The Matt Cunningham Band, Tommy Sands, Captain Mackey, Karan Casey, David Munnelly and more.

    On Saturday, May 9, Topeka rock group Backlash will perform Pink Floyd's classic album The Wall live in its entirety, including construction of the wall between the band and the audience, animation shown on the wall and two other screens, awesome lasers, lights and sound. This event will take place at Club Nocturnal from 9-11 pm with a cover charge at the door. For more information, visit www.backlashband.net/cool.html .

 

 

Alfred Packer Memorial String Band carries on annual tax party tradition

    A Lawrence tradition continues this year on April 15 when the Alferd Packer Memorial String Band plays at the main post office for the last minute tax filers.  Click here: Alferd Packer Memorial String Band to play at post office tax party / LJWorld.com.

 

Sarah Buxton experiences country music highs and lows

    Sarah Buxton didn’t win at this year’s Academy of Country Music Awards show in Las Vegas , but the Lawrence native continues to make inroads in Nashville .  Click here: LJWorld.com / Country living: Lawrence native Sarah Buxton experiences highs and lows of Nashville industry.

 

Tree Frog reunion in Lawrence on July 25

    Baxter Robertson will be joining Tree Frog again at this year’s Tree Frog reunion show at Lawrence ’s Liberty Hall on July 25^th.  Longtime members Eric Elder, Jim Fey, Gary Durrett, Scott Piper and Lynn Piller will also be there.

 

Wild Women jazz concert

    It appears that the Kansas City Jazz Orchestra’s show Friday night at KC’s Folly Theater with the Wild Women of Kansas City was a rousing success. Click here: Review | Wild Women featured in jazz concert - Kansas City Star.

 

Chautauqua Hills Blues Festival starts on Saturday May 23

    The Chautauqua Hills Blues Festival continues to grow.  New this year is a special show at the Gregg Theater in downtown Sedan featuring the Blues Music Awards nominee for “Acoustic Artist of the Year.”  The Memorial Day weekend event begins at three on Saturday May 23 at the Kurtis Arts Plaza featuring acoustic blues.  Independence, KS native Big Jim Adam, who put on a great show last year, returns from his home in Colorado Springs.

 

Ferocious Mary releases "Here Me Now" CD

    The band Ferocious Mary, who bills itself as a progressive rock band with a female vocalist and a piano-heavy sound, had a CD release party Saturday at Club Liquid in Wichita ’s Old Town .  The band’s debut album called Here Me Now was for sale at the venue.

 

Flee the Seen plays farewell show

    Another area band called it quits last Friday night, as Kansas City ’s Flee the Seen played a farewell show at the Uptown Theater. Click here: KC band Flee the Seen says farewell in a final show Friday - Kansas City Star.  Click here: Kansas City.

 

New Bob Walkenhorst interview

    The current issue of the online magazine Reason features an interview with Kansas City ’s Bob Walkenhorst, who has continued to play regularly since the breakup of the Rainmakers. Click here: Who Moved My Government Cheese:: The second coming of Rainmakers frontman Bob Walkenhorst - Reason Magazine.

 

New Kerry Livgren CD now available

    Kerry Livgren has completed work on his reworking of his album Seeds of Change.  Now called Decade Vol I, it is available from his website www.numavox.com.  Rather than just reissuing the original, Kerry has rerecorded everything while retaining all of the great performances on the original album.

 

Changes at KU School of Music

    There’s a new School of Music at the University of Kansas in Lawrence following a reorganization of the fine arts programs.  Click here: LJWorld.com / KU names interim dean of new music school.

 

 

 

Kelley Hunt update

    The winter storm that moved across the plains this past weekend caused numerous accidents on the roads, power outages in some areas, and many events had to be cancelled or postponed. In Topeka , for example, Kelley Hunt 's Saturday performance "Live at the Downbeat," a tribute to women singers and songwriters in commemoration of Women's History Month, had to be moved to Sunday night.

    Hunt and celebrated poet/writer and incoming Poet Laureate of Kansas Caryn Mirriam-Goldberg will again be hosting the Brave Voice Retreat and Workshops May 10-15 in the heart of the Flint Hills. This year Brave Voice will be held at Camp Wood near Elmdale, 630 acres of native prairie grassland near the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve. For more information, visit www.bravevoice.com .

 

Women in Jazz Month celebrated in Kansas City

    In celebration of Women's History Month, the American Jazz Museum declared March Women in Jazz Month. A lot of the women involved in Kansas City 's jazz scene battled the weather to entertain the valiant crowds across town over the weekend. Click here: Jazz Town: Women in Jazz Month puts the spotlight on KC's talented ladies - Kansas City Star .

    The Topeka debut of Judy Coder 's new band, Cowgirl Swing, had to be cancelled because of the weekend storm. Originally set for Saturday night at Seaman Congregational Church in North Topeka , the scheduled fundraiser for the church has been postponed according to Clyde Cochran, the event organizer. Cochran says the church will try to work out a new date with Coder and her band. For more on the band, Click here: Weekend music roundup | CJOnline.com .

 

Melissa Etheridge adds 2009 tour dates

    Melissa Etheridge keeps adding dates to her 2009 schedule. The latest announcement is of two nights at the Avalon Ballroom in the Niagara Fallsview Casino on the Canadian side of the famous falls. Tickets are already on sale for the June 19-20 shows.

 

More music news ...

    Kansas City 's Roger Naber will celebrate his 30 th year of promoting the blues with a big party on Saturday, April 25, at Knuckleheads in KC. The party will feature performances by Sugar Blues and Trampled Under Foot. Since selling the Grand Emporium several years ago, Roger has concentrated on his Legendary Rhythm & Blues Cruises. Naber says his upcoming October Pacific cruise has fewer than 20 cabins remaining, so if you want to join Mike Finnigan and the Phantom Blues Band along with many other blues artists, call 888-BLUESIN for availability.

    You can win a spot on the Republic Tigers guest list for their Los Angeles shows on April 10-11 at the Henry Fonda Theater. Click here: Kansas City - Wayward Blog - Win a spot on the Republic Tigers' list -- in L.A. .

    Among the shows in Kansas City over the weekend, one of the most anticipated was the Blue Riddim Band 's first KC performance in nearly eight years. Click here: Kansas City Music - Kansas City's blue-eyed reggae legends regroup - page 1

    According to Jason Harper of Kansas City's The Pitch , the recent shows by In the Pines went well except for losing an instrument when another band's tour manager stepped on Laurel Morgan's violin, but they borrowed another so the show could go on. The RecordBar crowds were treated to a new look for the band as everyone plays standing now. Until now, four of the members have played sitting down while the two singers stood. Click here: Kansas City Music - Stand up: In the Pines debuts new material - and a new approach to playing live - at its first .

    David Cook is hoping to convince his fans to simmer down with a soothing MySpace post in response to fans' attempts to track him down or deface his tour bus. Cook wrote, "We pride ourselves on being accessible to you as fans, but"we do enjoy what little privacy we can muster"This relations ship only works when it remains healthy for both parties. Click here: Dear Fans, Please Don't Stalk Me... Love, David Cook .

 

 

2009 Induction slideshows posted on YouTube

    At each year's induction ceremony, we have a slide show on a screen next to the Liberty Hall stage featuring the new inductees. As they were inducted and/or performed this year, Tom Hartnett showed photos of each inductee, and now Tom has made the slide show available for everyone to enjoy with a special YouTube account. Click here to view slideshows

 

 

Marilyn Maye back at Jardine's

 

Performers Assistance Trust benefit was a success

    The fourth annual PAT Bash , a fundraising concert established in honor of the late Wichita bluesman Pat McJimsey, was held a week ago Sunday at Margarita's Cantina. The money raised goes to the Performers Assistance Trust (PAT), a fund that helps local musicians facing financial hardship or help their families cover funeral expenses. This year's event raised over six thousand dollars, which is more than twice the amount raised in 2008. The musicians who performed and the fans who attended all deserve a tremendous "thank you."

 

"First Friday" showcases music in Wichita

    Another important Wichita music event is the new "First Friday" showcase of regional music. First Friday is a monthly music crawl featuring local Kansas , and regional artists, performing at venues in and around downtown Wichita . This monthly event will be held in an effort to draw locals and visitors into the heart of the Wichita metropolitan area in an experience that exposes local talent, and increases the awareness of Wichita 's arts culture. Click here: http://firstfriday.org/ .

 

Melissa Etheridge performs for AIDS Assistance Program

     Since its founding in 1991, the AIDS Assistance Program of Palm Springs remains dedicated to providing comfort and support to improve the quality of the lives of those surviving HIV/AIDS.

 

 

More music news ...

    On Saturday, March 14, The Elders held their annual Hoolie at KC's Midland Theater. It was also a CD release party for their new Gael Day album. Click here: Back to Rockville: Review: The Elders & Co.

    Kansas City indie rockers In the Pines just returned from a successful tour of Germany and Austria , and celebrated the release of their second album last Saturday night at the RecordBar. Click here: KC indie rockers In the Pines show new growth at a concert back home - Kansas City Star .

    Tim Finn , The Kansas City Star 's pop music writer, was in Austin over the weekend for the 23 rd annual South by Southwest Music Festival. Click here: Back to Rockville: SXSW: KC gets represented#more .

    Musician Bob Walkenhorst was back at KC's Primitivo Garcia World Language School to help the students write and record a song about a local hero. This year's hero is former major league baseball umpire Steve Palermo. Click here: KC pupils sing the praises of an everyday hero - Kansas City Star .

   Topeka 's Backlash has spent much of the past two years working on a new album that will finally be released on Saturday, May 23. A CD release party has been scheduled for that evening at The Boobie Trap. The band plans to have some other acts join them for the celebration.

    Stan's Kansas City Area Record & CD Show will be held Sunday, April 19, from 9 am to 3:30 pm at the Raddison Hotel Convention Center , 95th & I-35 in Lenexa . Admission is $3.00.

 

 

Jazz Festival cancelled

    The economy has caused this year's Coleman Hawkins Legacy Jazz Festival in Topeka to be cancelled according to Bill Leifer, who says the sponsoring non-profit group he heads will revive the festival when the economy picks up again. Click here: Economy claims Hawkfest '09 | CJOnline.com .

 

Kansas State Fair accepting applications

    The Kansas State Fair is accepting applications for it's Free Stage entertainment. If you or someone you know is interested in performing at the AT&T Arena, Lake Talbott Stage, or at the Gottschalk Park Gazebo, apply at http://www.kansasstatefair.com/application.php .

    Applications will be accepted through April 1, 2009. Applying to appear at a Free Stage is the first step in the selection process. Audition materials, as outlined in the application, along with logistical issues are considered when the Fair selects Free Stage entertainment.

    If you have any questions regarding this process do not hesitate to contact Lori Mulch, 620.669.3600 or lori@kansasstatefair.com.

 

St. Patrick's Day Parade honors John Weatherwax

    Tuesday's St. Patrick's Day Parade in Lawrence will honor the memory of the late John Weatherwax. Weatherwax, who died last August, and his band Junkyard Jazz were a part of every past parade. Click here: LJWorld.com / St. Patrick's Day Parade to honor late musician John Weatherwax .

 

Kelley Hunt concert on march 28 to honor Women's History Month

    The Brown vs. Board of Education National Historic Site in Topeka will celebrate women's history month with a performance by Kansas Music Hall of Fame inductee Kelley Hunt on Saturday, March 28, at 7 pm. The concert is free and open to the public, but reservations are requested by March 25 at 785-235-3939 or by email at brownfound@juno.com .

 

More music news ...

    Salina Music Teacher Gayle McMillan has been inducted into the Kansas Music Educators Hall of Fame. McMillan taught band and music theory for 27 years in the Salina public school system. Click here: salina.com - an online service of the Salina Journal .

    Longtime Kansas musician Gary Mackender, who now lives in Tucson , Arizona , and his band Carnivaleros have a new CD called Happy Homestead . Click here: You've Reached Carnivaleros Land .

 

 

Mike Finnigan joins Caribbean Blues Cruise

    In addition to the fall cruise mentioned last week, Mike Finnigan and the Phantom Blues Band will be joining Taj Mahal on next January's Caribbean Blues Cruise (January 23-30). Also on board will be KC's Trample Under Foot. Other acts include Keb' Mo', Johnny Winter, Tommy Castro & Tab Benoit. Click here: Legendary Rhythm + Blues Cruise | The World's Only Fully Chartered Blues Cruise, Music Cruise, Theme Cruise, Blues .

 

More music news ...

    Speaking of newspaper articles, the Kansas City Star's review of Kevin Mahogany 's recent show at the Folly Theater got a mixed review. Click here: Back to Rockville: Review: Kevin Mahogany .

    KU grad Andy Chester has been picked to play tuba in the You Tube Symphony Orchestra at Carnegie Hall next month. Click here: YouTube band picks KU grad | CJOnline.com .

    The Elders new CD Gael Day will be officially out on Saint Patrick's Day, but you can order your copy today from their online store .  They'll start sending orders out later this week as the band gets ready for its annual hoolie in Kansas City on the 14th.

 

March 2, 2009

 

Tickets on sale for Lancers reunion in Parsons on June 6

    This summer's Lancers reunion is not just about the Lancers. It's the 50 th anniversary of the birth of rock and roll in Parsons. The Lancers were originally known as the Ramrods. They began playing at Ron Fleming's home in 1959 and played their first gig at the local rec center in 1960. The band consisted of Fleming on drums, Larry Smith on vocals & rhythm guitar, John Jarboe on lead guitar, John Lyle on bass guitar, Bill Clary on conga drums and David Lee on sax. Jerry Bolander was the emcee. Tim Henson, who joined when the Ramrods morphed into the Lancers in 1961, will be playing his original bass guitar at the reunion June 6 at the Kitchen Pass, 1711 Main in Parsons. As we mentioned last week, there will be limited seating, so it is best to reserve a table. The phone number 620-421-1907.

 

Mike Finnigan and The Phantom Blues Band join Rhythm & Blues Cruise

    Mike Finnigan and The Phantom Blues Band have been added to the lineup of acts for this fall's Legendary Pacific Rhythm & Blues Cruise. This band is a collection of session players, producers, arrangers, composers, songwriters and recording artists. The PBB are two time Grammy winners and 2001 W.C. Handy Award recipients as Band of he Year with Taj Mahal. Most recently they've be major contributors to Taj's latest release and Curtis Salgado's Clean Getaway . Their own most recent release is Footprints on the Delta Groove label.

    Joining the band for the cruise is special guest and Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Dave Mason. An acclaimed musician and co-founder of the group Traffic, the singer/songwriter/guitarist has recently released 26 Letters - 12 Notes . The album was six years in the making.

 

Backlash will