by Pam Baumgardner
VenturaRocks.com

While I’m not going to guarantee an opening date for the Grape, they are oh so very close to opening their doors to what I’m sure will be the hottest jazz club in the County. I got the grand tour and the place is amazing!!!

We’ve been very fortunate to have Will Breman performing at local venues downtown Ventura (Winchesters and Grapes and Hops with a Twist) having been a semifinalist on NBC’s the Voice just a couple years ago (season 17). His mentor from the show, John Legend, just did a concert at the Santa Barbara Bowl last week and Legend brought Will on stage to perform Joe Cocker’s version of “With a Little Help from my Friends.” I spoke to Will about it and he told me, “Singing with John was literally the most perfect timing. Before the pandemic, I had bought tickets for my mom, because she was celebrating her 50th birthday. Ultimately my entire family got to go, which was wonderful. Mom and dad had zero clue [he’d be performing], and I could see them freaking out from their floor seats. Working with John in any respect has been straightforward and easy. At this point it was like catching up with a dear friend. I didn’t expect the nerves I got in the moment, but it had also been the first time in two years that I ever sang for an audience that big.” Freakin’ awesome, right?!! Will was kind enough to do an episode of VenturaRockSpot with me earlier this year, you can view it at VenturaRockSpot.com (along with dozens of other interviews). Will Breman will also be featured at the Topa Mountain Music 2021 Benefit Concert coming up at Ojai’s Libbey Bowl on October 9. Headlining the show will be the White Buffalo along with performances from Bryan Titus Trio, Lee Koch Band, Jems and more. Go to TopaMountainMusic.org for ticket information.

Ojai Nest Fest scheduled for Lake Casitas on October 2nd has been postponed.

Social Distortion (including long-time band member and well-known musician in numerous bands around town, Brent Harding) just got added to the list of concerts for October at the Majestic Ventura Theater playing a date on Wednesday, October 6. Other shows include Drakeo the Ruler on October 1, Black Label Society on October 2, Yung Blue on October 5, two Pennywise shows, the one with the Dead Kennedys on October 7 and the one with Strung Out on October 8, and then it’s Elefante, Inspector on October 15. The venue is now requiring a negative COVID-19 test result within 72 hours of the event you’re attending or proof of vaccination for entry. Masks are also required at all times except while actively eating or drinking.

I’m also happy to report there will be live music at Bombay’s on Saturday, September 25, starting at 6 pm in the back room and this one is all ages. With a small $5 cover, you’ll get Brian Mikasa with Ardi on drums performing new music along with opening sets from Kyle Hunt and Hol!day (Tyler Treves’ new project). It’s being branded as a listening party, so respect and give them your attention; should be a great way to kick off a Saturday night downtown.

Quick Notes: Maria Calire is out touring with Martha and the Motels; with less daylight, Margarita Villa has adjusted their live music to 7-10 on the weekends; Tony Ybarra is opening for Blood Sweat & Tears at the Canyon Club in Agoura Hills on September 24;

Tuesday Blues Day continues past summer at the Copa Cubana with Jerry Mcworter, Shawn Jones, Ed Berghoff and Sam Bolle; the Temptations play Libbey Bowl in Ojai on Sunday, September 26; Kyle Smith record release party will be held at the Six Chow House on Thursday, September 23; the monthly Bubbly, Brunch & Latin Jazz at the Ventura Harbor Comedy Club will feature Justo Almario, Abraham Laborial and Bill Maxwell on Sunday, September 26; and Surf ‘N’ Suds returns to San Buenaventura State Beach on Saturday, October 9, with music from Jacob Marquez and the Good Vibes along with Mestizo & DJ Hecktik.

Do you have any music-related news or upcoming shows you want help publicizing? Please send all information short or long to [email protected], and for updated music listings daily, go to www.VenturaRocks.com.

For more up-to-the-date listings go to VenturaRocks.com

Azars
2215 Michael Dr., Newbury Park
Sat 10/2: Reign

Boatyard Pub
Ventura Harbor
Thursdays: Jim Friery; then Bluegrass Jam

Bombay Bar & Grill
143 S. California St., Ventura
DJs Friday – Sunday
Sat 9/25: Brian Mikasa, Kyle Hunt, Hol!day, Ardi (6 pm)

Cantara Cellars
126 N. Wood Rd., Camarillo
Sat 9/25: Slogan
Fri 10/1: Cadillac Zack presents Mara Kaye
Sat 9/2: What the Funk

The Cave
4435 McGrath St., Ventura
Music 5:30 – 8:30
Thursdays: Bobby Apostol
Fridays & Saturdays: Warren Takahashi

Copa Cubana
Ventura Harbor Village
Tuesdays: (7 pm) McWorter, Berghoff & Jones
Sat 9/25: Karen Eden & Bill Macpherson (7 pm)

Downtown Ventura
California & Main Stage
Wednesdays: Warren Takahashi (5:30 pm)
Fridays: Brandon Ragan (5 pm)
Sat 9/25: Gaby Moniel (noon); Singular Nature (5 pm)
Sun 9/26: On a Mission from GOD players (12:30 pm)
Sat 10/2: Tribal Me (11 am); Dr. T & the Blues Criminals (5 pm)
Sun 10/3: Simi Rat Pack ( 11 am)

Four Brix
2290 Eastman, Ventura
Music 6-8 pm on Fridays, Sat & Sun 1 – 3:30 pm
Fri 9/24: Karen Eden & Bill Macpherson
Sat 9/25: Katie Skene Duo
Sun 9/26: Jacob Marquez & the Good Vibes
Fri 10/1: Diane Lotny & guests
Sat 10/2: Teresa Russell & Stephen Geyer

Grapes and Hops with a Twist
454 E Main St., Ventura
Music 8 pm unless other noted
Thursdays: LA Jazz Experience (7 pm)
Fri 9/24: Brian Faith Band
Sat 9/25: Dive Bar Steve (2 pm); Guy Martin
Sun 9/26: Shawn Jones acoustic (2 pm)
Sun 10/3: The Swillys (2 pm)

Keynote Lounge
10245 E Telephone Rd, Ventura
9/25: Sin Chonies

Leashless Brewing
585 E. Thompson Blvd, Ventura
Music 6:30 pm except Sundays at 3 pm
Thurs 9/23: Matt of Blown Over
Fri 9/24: Dylan Cunningham
Sat 9/25: Jacob and the Good Vibes
Sun 9/26: Brittney Burchett
Thurs 9/30: Lauren Barth

Libbey Bowl
210 Signal St., Ojai
Fri 9/24: DSB
Sun 9/26: The Temptations
Fri 10/1: Queen Nation

Lookout & Grill
2800 S. Harbor Blvd., Oxnard
Wednesdays: Tommy Foytek’s Variety Show

Made West Brewing
1744 Donlon St., Ventura
Thurs 9/23: Anchor & Bear (6 pm)
Sat 9/25: Milo Sledge (4 pm)
Thurs 9/30: RJ Bloke
Sat 10/2: Ben Schneid

Majestic Ventura Theater
26 S. Chestnut St., Ventura
Wed 9/22: Mon Laferte
Fri 10/1: Drakeo the Ruler
Sat 10/2: Black Label Society
Sun 10/3: Yung Bleu

Margarita Villa
Ventura Harbor Village
Music Mon -Thurs 6-9, Fri & Sat 7-10; Sundays 5-8
Fri 9/24: The Tossers
Sat 9/25: Studebaker Hawk
Sun 9/26: Freedom of Expression
Fri 10/1: Vinyl Gypsies
Sat 10/2: Dive Bar Messiahs
Sun 10/3: Karen Eden & the Bad Apples

Namba
47 S. Oak St., Ventura
Sat 9/25: Mark Hummel
Sat 10/2: Susie Glaze New Folk Ensemble

Ojai Nest Fest
11311 Santa Ana Rd., Lake Casitas
Sat 10/2: Foghat, Shaky Feelin’, Mike Marino, Thom Tran, Other Mother Brother Band, more…

Ojai Underground Exchange
616 Pearl St., Ojai
Fri 9/24: Gary Myrick & Geoff Pearlman
Sat 9/25: Luis Munoz Trio

Oxnard Performing Arts Center
Canyon at Oxnard PACC
Sundays: The House Arrest Band (1-4 pm)

Prime Restaurant
2209 E. Thompson Blvd., Ventura
Tuesdays: Danny D

The Raven Tavern
1651 S. Victoria Ave., Oxnard
Music at 8 – 11 pm
Fri 9/24: Jayden Secor
Sat 9/25: Brittney Burchett

Relm
2390 Las Posas Rd., Camarillo
Music at 5:30 pm
Fri 9/24: George Krikes
Sat 9/25: The Fabulous Hangovers

Rock & Roll Pizza
5255 Cochran St., Simi Valley
Fri 9/24: Kings of Queen

San Souci
21 S. Chestnut St., Ventura
Fri 9/24: Free Love Project

Simi Valley Town Center
1555 Simi Town Center Way
Music at 7 pm
Fri 9/24: Doc Rogers Band
Sat 9/25: Journey USA

The Six Chow House
419 E. Main St., Ventura
Music at 9:30 pm
Thurs 9/23: Kyle Smith CD release party
Fri 9/24: ADD

Ventura Harbor Comedy Club
1559 Spinnaker Dr.
Sun 9/26: Justo Almario, Abraham Laborial & Bill Maxwell

The Vine
308 E. Ojai Ave., Ojai
Saturdays: Smitty and Julija and Friends (7 pm)
Sundays: Fire on the Mountain (2 pm)

Waterside
3500 S. Channel Island Blvd., Oxnard
Wed 9/22: Teresa Russell

Winchesters
632 E. Main St., Ventura
Music Thurs 5:30; Fri 7 pm; Sun 3 pm
Thurs 9/23: Saint Pierre
Fri 9/24: The Swillys
Sun 9/26: Wumbloozo

by Pam Baumgardner
VenturaRocks.com

Big congratulations to Tammy and the crew at Grapes and Hops for expanding their beverage selection to include a lovely assortment of mixed drinks, and as a result, the venue is now called Grapes and Hops with a Twist! I have to always send them love as they’ve consistently offered live music from the start. By the by, it’s been great the past few months catching their weekend afternoon matinees with music outside on their patio area on Main Street.

Cadillac Zack shows at Cantara Cellars in Camarillo kick off the month with Sugarmill Slim on Friday, September 10 with none other than Cadillac Zack as the special guest. I became a new fan of Sugarmill Slim when he played with Jimmy Vivino earlier this summer, and speaking of which, at that same show, you may remember my write up about how cool it was to see Fito de la Parra of Canned Heat sitting in for a number of tunes; well it will be a whole night of legendary hits when Fito returns with Canned Heat for a special engagement on October 14. This will most certainly sell out and I understand advance tickets are only $40. You can get more information at CadillacZackPresents.com or text (323) 377-5291.

The 75th Ojai Music Festival runs September 16 – 19 this year with John Adams, Music Director, at the helm. I counted twelve events being held at Libbey Bowl, Soule Park, Redemption Church, and at the Zalk Theatre at Besant Hill School with performance from Rhiannon Giddens, the LA Phil New Music Group, the Ojai Festival Orchestra and more. For a full list of the programs being offered and for ticket information, go to OjaiFestival.org.

More and more music is being scheduled for that stage located at California and Main Street, downtown Ventura. You can catch Warren Takahashi every Wednesday, coming up on Sunday the 12th, it’s Dr. T and the Blues Criminals, and the following week they have Simi Rat Pack, Michelle Meadow Love & Christy P. Klotz. See listings for days and times.

Ojai Nest Fest will be held at Lake Casitas on October 2nd with Foghat headling the veteran’s benefit. Shaky Feelin, Mike Marino, Rich Sheldon, Other Mother Brother Band, and more will be performing. This inaugural event promises to be family friendly with proceeds benefiting Veterans Independence Foundation. Go to OjaiNestFest.com for ticket information.

I received a special announcement that Surf Rodeo was heading to Texas to partner with the BSR Surf Resort in Waco, Texas for what they calling “A fun filled weekend in October.” They added, “Don’t worry we will be back in Ventura next summer!”

Quick Notes: The Majestic Ventura Theater is back in the business of live shows this month with Lukas Nelson & Promise of the Real on Thursday, September 9; The SICC House Fundraiser at the Ventura Beach Club on Sunday, September 12, with Blackstar & Easy Death; The High Street Arts Center Theater hosts the 2021 Gala Arts Under the Stars with Mark Wood and the Parrot Head Band on Saturday, September 11; and the next Namba show is Saturday, September 18 with Kavika G and the Kosmic Geckos featuring David Gorospe.

Do you have any music-related news or upcoming shows you want help publicizing? Please send all information short or long to [email protected], and for updated music listings daily, go to www.VenturaRocks.com.

For more up-to-the-date listings go to VenturaRocks.com

Boatyard Pub
Ventura Harbor
Thursdays: Jim Friery; then Bluegrass Jam

Cantara Cellars
126 N. Wood Road, Camarillo
Fri 9/10: Sugarmill Slim w/ Cadillac Zack
Sat 9/11: Katie Shorey
Fri 9/17: Artur Menezes
Sat 9/18: Sandy Haley
Sun 9/19: Natalie Wattre

The Cave
4435 McGrath Street, Ventura
Music 5:30 – 8:30
Thursdays: Bobby Apostol
Fridays & Saturdays: Warren Takahashi

Copa Cubana
Ventura Harbor Village
Tuesdays: (7 pm) McWorter, Berghoff & Jones
Fri 9/10: Kenny Devoe (1 pm); Bill Macpherson & Jen Staves (7 pm)
Sat 9/11: Karen Eden & Bill Macpherson (5:30 pm)
Sun 9/12: Kenny Devoe (11 am ); Bill Macpherson & Smokey (4 pm)
Sat 9/18: Kenny Devoe (Noon); Bill Macpherson & Smokey (7 pm)
Sun 9/19: Kenny Devoe (11 am)

Downtown Ventura
California & Main Stage
Wednesdays: Warren Takahashi (5:30 pm)
Fri 9/10: Chris, Tim & Friends (6 pm)
Sat 9/11: Dr. T & The Blues Criminals (2 pm)
Fri 9/17: Simi Rat Pack (3 pm)
Sat 9/18: Michelle Meadow Love (5:30 pm)
Sun 9/19: Christy P. Klotz (Noon)

Four Brix
2290 Eastman, Ventura
Music 6-8 pm on Fridays, Sat & Sun 1 – 3:30 pm
Fri 9/10: Ignition
Sat 9/11: Doc Rogers Trio
Sun 9/12: Erinn Selkis & Eddie

Grapes and Hops with a Twist
454 E Main St, Ventura
Music 8 pm unless other noted
Thursdays: LA Jazz Experience (7 pm)
Fri 9/10: 805 Crosscut
Sat 9/11: Los Dudes (2 pm); Shawn Jones Trio
Sun 9/12: Dave Parsonage (2 pm)
Fri 9/17: Brandon Ragan Project
Sat 9/18: Blue Motel Room (2 pm); Dive Bar Messiahs
Sun 9/19: Colette Lovejoy (2 pm)

High Street Arts Center Theater
45 E. High Street, Moorpark, CA
Sat 9/11: Mark Wood and the Parrot Head Band (6 pm)

Keynote Lounge
10245 E Telephone Rd, Ventura
Fri 9/10: Whiskey Business
Sat 9/18: Pull the Trigger

Leashless Brewing
585 E. Thompson Blvd, Ventura
Music 6:30 pm except Sundays at 3 pm
Thurs 9/9: Illunismusic
Fri 9/10: TC King
Sat 9/11: The Essentials
Sun 9/12: Joe Henry III
Thurs 9/16: Sin Chonies
Sat 9/18: The Lucky Ones
Sun 9/19: Katie Leigh

Made West Brewing
1744 Donlon Street, Ventura
Sat 9/11: Art of Funk (4 pm)
Sun 9/12: The Devil’s Box String Band duo (3 pm)
Thurs 9/16: RJ Mischo (6 pm)
Sat 9/18: Ben Schneid (4 pm)
Sun 9/19: Gianna Bella (3 pm)

Majestic Ventura Theater
26 S. Chestnut Street, Ventura
Thurs 9/9: Lukas Nelson & Promise of the Real
Fri 9/10: The End of Summer Lockdown Show

Margarita Villa
Ventura Harbor Village
Music Mon -Thurs 6-9, Fri & Sat 8-11; Sundays 5-8
Fri 9/10: Colette Lovejoy
Sat 9/11: Operation 90s
Sun 9/12: Karen Eden & the Bad Apples
Fri 9/17: Whiskey Business
Sat 9/18: Crosscut Band
Sun 9/19: Doc Rogers Band

Namba
47 S. Oak Street, Ventura
Sat 9/18: Kavika G and the Kosmic Geckos w/ David Gorospe

Ojai Underground Exchange
616 Pearl Street, Ojai
Fri 9/17: Teka
Sat 9/18: James Lee Stanley

Oxnard Performing Arts Center
Canyon at Oxnard PACC
Sundays: The House Arrest Band (1-4 pm)

Peirano’s Market & Deli
204 E. Main, Ventura
Fri 9/10: Bobby Campbell & Friends (6 pm)

The Raven Tavern
1651 S. Victoria Ave., Oxnard
Music at 8 – 11 pm
Fri 9/10: Vanise Terry Band
Sat 9/11: Christopher Hawley Rollers
Fri 9/17: Sean Wiggins
Sat 9/18: Foo Flannels

Relm
2390 Las Posas Rd., Camarillo
Music at 5:30 pm
Fri 9/10: Morrison Drive
Sat 9/11: Jade Hendrix
Fri 9/17: Sam Stacy
Sat 9/18: Shawn Jones

Ric’s Restaurant
2500 Las Posas Rd., Camarillo
Sun 9/12: The Lisa Ritner Jones Trio (2:30 pm)

Simi Valley Town Center
1555 Simi Town Center Way
Music at 7 pm
Fri 9/10: Just Dave Band
Sat 9/11: Blue Motel Room
Fri 9/17: Honky Tonk Outlaws
Sat 9/18: Natalie Wattre

The Six Chow House
419 E. Main Street, Ventura
Music at 9:30 pm
Sat 9/11: Groovesession
Sat 9/18: Shakey Feelin’

Ventura Beach Club
281 W. Main Street, Ventura
Sun 9/12: Blackstar, Easy Death (2 pm)

The Vine
308 E. Ojai Avenue, Ojai
Saturdays: Smitty and Julija and Friends

Winchesters
632 E. Main Street, Ventura
Music Thurs 5:30; Fri 7 pm; Sun 3 pm
Thurs 9/9: Karen 805
Fri 9/10: Milo Sledge Duo
Sun 9/12: The Bomb
Thurs 9/16: Big Adventure
Fri 9/17: Blown Over
Sun 9/19: Karen Eden & the Bad Apples

by Pam Baumgardner
VenturaRocks.com

Just when you think we’re out of the woods, the mask mandate is back; embrace it. While you and I may be vaccinated others are not. No need to get angry, no need to stress, just do what is right for the greater good and let’s put this pandemic behind us as soon as we can. And just another aside, no need to shame those who choose not to get vaccinated. They already know they’re wrong. JUST KIDDING!!! Both sides can still contract Covid, and both sides can still spread it, but it’s been proven that the vaccinated are less at risk for being hospitalized.

While we’re on the subject, a quick shout out and kudos going out to venues/restaurants who boldly close due to Covid cases amongst some of their staff. It’s the responsible thing to do, and if they investigate and see where improvements can be made to secure a safer environment for both staff and customers, even better.

I have great news! In the former Oak and Main location (and before that Rookees), The Six Chow House is now open and plans on offering music Thursday through Sunday. According to their Instagram account (thesixventura), they’ll be specializing in farm to table cuisine and mixology cocktails. It’s gorgeous and I hope it proves to be another feather in the cap of Ventura’s music scene.

The Spencer Makenzie’s 12th Annual End of Summer Block Party runs august 27-29 this year at Surfer’s Point Live (Ventura Fairgrounds parking lot at the corner of Harbor Blvd and Figueroa). The main event is the Throw Down Cornhole Tournament all three days and it turns out this is the largest cash cornhole tournament in the world. To keep the party going, both Friday and Saturday will feature live music (see listings). To secure tickets and to find out more go to www.SurfersPointLive.com.

Hueneme Beach Festival is a free event with music over the weekend of August 28 and 29 featuring a number of heavy hitters including Fausto Cuevas y La Moderna (tours with Stevie Wonder), Ozomatli, and Think:X which features Scott Page (Pink Floyd, Supertramp), Stephen Perkins (Jane’s Addiction), Kenny Olson (Kidd Rock & Norwood Fisher (Fishboone). See HuenemeBeachFestival.org for dates, times and parking information.

Congratulations to Gary & Karen on Four Brix 10-year anniversary. They’ll be celebrating over the weekend of September 3 starting with Inna Rude Mood on Friday evening, then Dean Delorenzo & Lisa Meegan Trio on Saturday afternoon with The Brix Brothers keeping the party going on Sunday at Noon.

Quick Notes: Tickets are now on sale for the Ojai Music Festival which runs September 16-19 this year; the Collection has schedule monthly concerts in their field with Yachtley Crew this month on Wednesday, August 25; Alan Parsons Live Project plays Libbey Bowl on Saturday, August 28; and the Ventura Harbor Comedy Club’s monthly “Bubbly, Brunch & Latin Jazz” series features Oscar Hernandez’s Alma Libre on Sunday, August 29.

Do you have any music-related news or upcoming shows you want help publicizing? Please send all information short or long to [email protected], and for updated music listings daily, go to www.VenturaRocks.com.

For more up-to-the-date listings go to VenturaRocks.com

Boatyard Pub
Ventura Harbor
Thursdays: Jim Friery; then Bluegrass Jam

Cantara Cellars
126 N. Wood Road, Camarillo
Fri 8/27: Lionel Young
Sat 8/28: Mid Life Crisis

The Cave
4435 McGrath Street, Ventura
Music 5:30 – 8:30
Thursdays: Bobby Apostol
Fridays & Saturdays: Warren Takahashi

The Collection at River Park
Oxnard, CA
6:30 – 8 pm
Wed 8/25: Yachtley Crew

Constitution Park
601 Constitution Park, Camarillo
Sat 9/4: Raymond Michael

Copa Cubana
Ventura Harbor Village
Tuesdays: (7 pm) McWorter, Berghoff & Jones
Fridays: (1 pm) Kenny Devoe
Saturdays: (10 am & 4 pm) Kenny Devoe
Sundays: (10 am) Kenny Devoe

Crown & Anchor
2891 Thousand Oaks Blvd, Thousand Oaks
Thursdays: (5 pm) Teresa Russell

Four Brix
2290 Eastman, Ventura
Music 6-8 pm on Fridays, Sat & Sun 1 – 3:30 pm
Sat 8/28: Epitome of Dreams
Sun 8/29: Cary Park
Fri 9/3: Inna Rude Mood
Sat 9/4: Dean Delorenzo & Lisa Meegan Trio
Sun 9/5: The Brix Brothers

Grapes and Hops
454 E Main St, Ventura
Music 8 pm unless other noted
Thursdays: LA Jazz Experience (7 pm)
Sat 8/28: Brandon Ragan (2pm); Dive Bar Messiahs (8 pm)
Sun 8/29: Shawn Jones (2 pm)
Fri 9/3: The Salty Suites

The Greek
Ventura Harbor Village
Thursdays: Kenny Devoe (4-6 pm)

Hueneme Beach Festival
550 Park Avenue
1 pm to 6 pm
Sat 8/28: LAW, Fausto Cuevas y la Moderna, Ozomatli
Sun 8/29: Diggin’ Dirt, Arise Roots, Think:X

Keynote Lounge
10245 E Telephone Rd, Ventura
Sat 8/28: Old School

Leashless Brewing
585 E. Thompson Blvd, Ventura
Music 6:30 pm except Sundays at 3 pm
Thurs 8/26: Dylan Cunningham
Fri 8/27: Tommy Foytek
Sat 8/28: TC King
Sun 8/29: Skunk Funk

Libbey Bowl
210 Signal Street, Ojai
Sat 8/28: Alan Parsons Live Project

Made West Brewing
1744 Donlon Street, Ventura
Thurs 8/26: RJ Bloke
Sat 8/28: Anchor & Bear
Sun 8/29: RJ Mischo
Sat 9/4: Milo Sledge

Margarita Villa
Ventura Harbor Village
Music Mon -Thurs 6-9, Fri & Sat 8-11; Sundays 5-8
Fri 8/27: The Tossers
Sat 8/28: Operation 90s
Sun 8/29: John Young & Friends
Fri 9/3: Vinyl Gypsies
Sat 9/4: Dive Bar Messiahs
Sun 9/5: CRV

Ojai Underground Exchange
616 Pearl Street, Ojai
Fri 8/27: John Zipperer
Sat 8/28: Shane Alexander
Sun 8/29: Fourth Floor (Adam Levy)

Oxnard Performing Arts Center
Canyon at Oxnard PACC
Sundays: The House Arrest Band (1-4 pm)

Peirano’s Market & Deli
204 E. Main, Ventura
Sat 8/28: Jodi Farrell & Jim Rankin

The Raven Tavern
1651 S. Victoria Ave., Oxnard
Fri 8/27: Breaking Bored
Sat 8/28: Jetlemons

Relm
2390 Las Posas Rd., Camarillo
Music at 5:30 pm
Fri 8/27: Oleander Falls
Sat 8/28: Lainey Taylor
Fri 9/3: Scott Rusch
Sat 9/4: Fianna Bella

Rock & Roll Pizza
305 Arneill Road, Camarillo
Tues 8/31: Charman & Get Bent

Rock & Roll Pizza
5255 Cochran St., Simi Valley
Sun 8/29: Chris Murray (5 pm)
Fri 9/3: Truck Stop Mix Tape, Bonnie Root, the Holy Broken & Three on a Match (9 pm)

Simi Civic Center Plaza
On Tapo between 118 & Alamo, Simi Valley
Sat 8/28: Ignition

Simi Valley Town Center
1555 Simi Town Center Way
Fri 8/27: Wicked Sabbath
Sat 8/28: Reign
Fri 9/3: Doc Rogers Band
Sat 9/4: Captain Cardiac & the Coronaries
Surfers Point Live
10 Harbor Blvd, Ventura
The Throw Down Cornhole & Music Festival
Fri 8/27: Dave Rey w/ the Acoustic DNA Project; Mandex
Sat 8/28: cover bands featuring AC/DC, Journey, Guns n Roses

Topa Topa Brewing
104 E. Thompson Blvd., Ventura
Thurs 8/26: ToneBloke

Vaquero y Mar
435 E. Thompson Blvd., Ventura
Tuesdays: The Sea Hunters & Friends
Thursdays: Delta by the Beach
Sun 8/29: 805 Allstarz w/ Howie Anderson

Ventura Harbor Comedy Club
1559 Spinnaker Dr., Ventura
Sun 8/29: Oscar Hernandez’s Alma Libre (Noon)

Ventura Harbor Village
1583 Spinnaker Drive
Music 1 pm
Saturdays: Steel Drums
Sun 9/5: Karen Eden & the Bad Apples

Winchesters
632 E. Main Street, Ventura
Music Thurs 5:30; Fri 7 pm; Sun 3 pm
Thurs 8/26: Saint Pierre
Fri 8/27: Doc Ventura
Sun 8/29: CRV
Thurs 9/2: Will Breman
Fri 9/3: Jodi Farrell & Jim Rankin
Sun 9/5: Ray Jaurique Duo

1901
740 South B Street, Oxnard
Music 6:30 – 9:30 pm
Fri 8/27: Teresa Russell
Sat 8/28: Corey Hugh

by Pam Baumgardner
VenturaRocks.com

With more and more people getting out for live music coupled with the unpredictability of the Coronavirus mutating, I would not think less of you for wearing a mask or two whether you’re vaccinated or not, indoors or out…just sayin’.

You might consider checking out Caffrodite Community Collective which has been holding a monthly dinner & music event on the third Friday of the month. This month the guest artist will be TD Lind, an Americana Blues musician and composer on August 20 from 5:30 to 8:30 pm. The price of admission is only $10 but does not include meals and/or drinks, the organic menu will be by Chef Christine. Caffrodite Community Collective is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization which celebrates the art of community and community arts. Their mission and vision are a sustainable, supporting and welcoming space for the community to meet, create, and collaborate. All proceeds go to supporting the space and the mission. Caffrodite is located at 1987 E. Main Street in Ventura.

It’s very cool that Cadillac Zack has selected Ventura as one of four venues to host his shows weekly. For us here in Ventura County, shows are held at Cantara Cellars in Camarillo on Fridays (other venues include Malainey’s Grill in Long Beach, Maui Sugar Mill Saloon in Tarzana and either Matt Denny’s Alehouse in Arcadia or Der Wolf in Pasadena). As for Cantara, they do a great job with food catered in along with their wine selection held in their wine barrel “cellar” with decent acoustics. The prices aren’t bad either, front row at a table runs $50 but other tables are only $20/$25 per seat. Some shows have higher ticket prices, but still, you get incredible value for your money. Do not contact Cantera for tickets, Cadillac Zack does it all via text at (323) 377-5291. Still to come this month, The Atomic 44’s (formerly The 44’s) on August 13, Paule Cerra on August 20 and Lionel Young on August 27. For more information and more details on obtaining tickets go to CadillacZackPresents.com.

Quick Notes: Tickets are now on sale for the Ojai Music Festival which runs September 16-19 this year; Nardcore Tuesday nights continue at Rock & Roll Pizza in Camarillo with Stalag 13 & the Bonedrivers on August 17 and the Hell Toupees with the Deveros on August 24; Tuesdays Bluesdays continue at the Harbor with Jerry McWorter, Ed Berghoff and Shawn Jones at Copa Cubana; Will Breman from the Voice returns to Grapes and Hops on Saturday afternoon, August 14; Dr. Madd Vibe (Fishbone) & the Missing Links play Mrs. Olson’s on Saturday, August 14 and Rock & Roll Pizza in Simi Valley on Sunday, August 15; The English Beat plays Oxnard Performing Arts Center on Friday, August 13; and two amazing Harmonica players, RJ MIscho & TJ Norton, play Namba on Saturday, August 21.

Do you have any music-related news or upcoming shows you want help publicizing? Please send all information short or long to [email protected], and for updated music listings daily, go to www.VenturaRocks.com.

For more up-to-the-date listings go to VenturaRocks.com

Anna’s Cider
801 E. Main Street, Santa Paula
Sat 8/14: (1:pm) Jacob Marquez & the Good Vibes

Beach House Tacos
Ventura Pier
Sat 8/14: (1 pm) 805 Allstarz

Boatyard Pub
Ventura Harbor
Thursdays: Jim Friery; then Bluegrass Jam

Caffrodite Community Collective
1987 E. Main St. Ventura
Fri 8/20: TD Lind

Cantara Cellars
126 N. Wood Road, Camarillo
Fri 8/13: The Atomic 44’s
Sat 8/14: The Brandon Ragan Project
Fri 8/20: Paule Cerra
Sat 8/21: Johnny & the Love Handles

The Cave
4435 McGrath Street, Ventura
Music 5:30 – 8:30
Thursdays: Bobby Apostol
Fridays & Saturdays: Warren Takahashi

Constitution Park
601 Constitution Park, Camarillo
Sat 8/21: (5 pm) Smith the Band

Copa Cubana
Ventura Harbor Village
Tuesdays: (7 pm) McWorter, Berghoff & Jones
Fridays: (1 pm) Kenny Devoe
Saturdays: (10 am & 4 pm) Kenny Devoe
Sundays: (10 am) Kenny Devoe

Crown & Anchor
2891 Thousand Oaks Blvd, Thousand Oaks
Thursdays: (5 pm) Teresa Russell

Four Brix
2290 Eastman, Ventura
Music 6-8 pm on Fridays, Sat & Sun 1 – 3:30 pm
Fri 8/13: Heathers on Fire
Sun 8/15: Brix Bros. & Frank Barajas
Fri 8/20: Charlie Baker & Friends
Sun 8/22: Duncan & the Dragonslayers

Grapes and Hops
454 E Main St, Ventura
Music 8 pm unless other noted
Thursdays: LA Jazz Experience (7 pm)
Fri 8/13: Bella Lucarelli
Sat 8/14: (2 pm) Will Breman; (8 pm) Shaky Feelin’
Sun 8/15: (2 pm) The Swillys
Fri 8/20: Shawn Jones Trio
Sat 8/21: (2 pm) Dive Bar Steve; (8 pm) Mighty Cash Cats
Sun 8/22: (2 pm) Collette Lovejoy

The Greek
Ventura Harbor Village
Thursdays: Kenny Devoe (4-6 pm)

Keynote Lounge
10245 E Telephone Rd, Ventura
Fri 8/13: Heart and Soul
Fri 8/20: CRV

Leashless Brewing
585 E. Thompson Blvd, Ventura
Music 6:30 pm except Sundays at 3 pm
Thurs 8/12: King Sol & the Vibes
Fri 8/13: Johnny Irie
Sat 8/14: Jacob Marquez & the Good Vibes
Sun 8/15: Kimo Live
Thurs 8/19: Chris Hawley
Fri 8/20: Tribe Devine
Sat 8/21: Brion Shearer & the Super Unreliable Villians
Sun 8/22: The Slider

Libbey Bowl
210 Signal Street, Ojai
Sun 8/22: Amrosia, John Ford Coley, Peter Beckett (Player)

Made West Brewing
1744 Donlon Street, Ventura
Thurs 8/12: (6 pm) RJ Mischo
Sat 8/14: (4 pm) Ben Schneid
Sun 8/15: (3 pm) Gianna Bella
Sat 8/21: (4 pm) Art of Funk
Sun 8/22: (3 pm) Ben Schneid

Margarita Villa
Ventura Harbor Village
Music Mon -Thurs 6-9, Fri & Sat 8-11; Sundays 5-8
Thurs 8/12: Fire on the Mountain
Fri 8/13: Doc Rogers Band
Sat 8/14: Freedom of Expression
Sun 8/15: Corsican Brothers
Mon 8/16: Bobby Campbell
Fri 8/20: Whiskey Business
Sat 8/21: Cross Cut Band
Sun 8/22: Troy Edwards
Mon 8/23: Bobby Campbell

Mrs. Olson’s
2800 Harbor Blvd., Oxnard
Sat 8/14: Dr. Maddvibe & the Missing Links

Namba
47 S. Oak Street, Ventura
Sat 8/21: RJ Mischo & TJ Norton

Ojai Underground Exchange
616 Pearl Street, Ojai
Sat 8/21: Rich Ferguson, Butch Norton, RJ Bloke & Mike Sobel

Oxnard Performing Arts Center
Canyon at Oxnard PACC
Sundays: The House Arrest Band (1-4 pm)
Fri 8/13: The English Beat
Sat 8/14: Bone Thugs-n-Harmony

The Raven Tavern
1651 S. Victoria Ave., Oxnard
Fri 8/13: Alex Nestor
Sat 8/14: Foo Flannels
Fri 8/20: Upful Sight
Sat 8/21: Vinyl Gypsies

Relm
2390 Las Posas Rd., Camarillo
Fri 8/13: Jesse Davis
Sat 8/14: Nate Latta
Fri 8/20: Leeann Skoda
Sat 8/21: George Krikes

Rock & Roll Pizza
305 Arneill Road, Camarillo
Tues 8/17: Stalag 13, the Bonedrivers
Tues 8/24: The Hell Toupees, the Deveros

Rock & Roll Pizza
5255 Cochran St., Simi Valley
Fri 8 pm; Sun 5 pm
Fri 8/13: Justin Honsinger
Sun 8/15: Dr. Maddvibe & the Missin’ Links
Sun 8/22: John Landry

San Souci
21 S. Chestnut, Ventura
Fri 8/20: Los Bonedrivers, iDecline, Beachside Strangers, All-a-Blur

Simi Civic Center Plaza
On Tapo between 118 & Alamo, Simi Valley
Sat 8/14: (6 pm) Forever Rod

Simi Valley Town Center
1555 Simi Town Center Way
Fri 8/13: 805 Social Club
Sat 8/14: Bad Habit, the Revolving Doors
Fri 8/20: Honky Tonk Outlaws
Sat 8/21: Black Dragon, Wired, Blue Motel Room, Studebaker Hawk

Star Lounge
343 E. Main St., Ventura
Sat 8/21: CRV

Vaquero y Mar
435 E. Thompson Blvd., Ventura
Tuesdays: The Sea Hunters & Friends
Thursdays: Delta by the Beach

Ventura Harbor Village
1583 Spinnaker Drive
Music 1 pm
Saturdays: Steel Drums
Sun 8/15: Unkle Monkey
Sun 8/22: 805 Allstarz w/ James Alverson

Winchesters
632 E. Main Street, Ventura
Music Thurs 5:30; Fri 7 pm; Sun 3 pm
Thurs 8/12: Dean & Lisa
Fri 8/13: Vanise Terry
Sun 8/15: Mid Life Crisis
Thurs 8/19: Meg & Alex
Fri 8/20: Mark Masson Trio
Sun 8/22: What the Funk Band

1901
740 South B Street, Oxnard
Music 6:30 – 9:30 pm
Fri 8/13: Blue Motel
Sat 8/14: The Swillys
Sat 8/21: Karen Eden

Music Calendar
For more up-to-the-date listings go to VenturaRocks.com

Art City Studios
197 Dubbers Street, Ventura
Wed 7/28: Fantuzzi & Friends, Jason Brock

Boatyard Pub
Ventura Harbor
Thursdays: Jim Friery; then Bluegrass Jam

Cantara Cellars
126 N. Wood Road, Camarillo
Thurs 7/29: John Mayall
Sun 8/1: Milo Sledge Trio

Canyon at Oxnard PACC
Oxnard Performing Arts Center
Sat 7/31: Which One’s Pink
Sundays: The House Arrest Band (1-4 pm)

The Cave
4435 McGrath Street, Ventura
Music 5:30 – 8:30
Thursdays: Bobby Apostol
Fridays & Saturdays: Warren Takahashi

Channel Islands Harbor
3333 Peninsula Road, Oxnard
Concerts 4-6 pm
Sat 7/31: UNDRCVR Band

Copa Cubana
Ventura Harbor Village
Tuesdays: McWorter Berghoff & Jones (7 pm)
Sat & Sun: Ken Devoe (Noon – 6 pm)
Sat 7/31: Teresa Russell

Crown & Anchor
2891 Thousand Oaks Blvd, Thousand Oaks
Thurs 7/15: Teresa Russell (5 – 8 pm)

Four Brix
2290 Eastman, Ventura
Music 6-8 pm on Fridays, Sat & Sun 1 – 3:30 pm
Sun 8/1: Johnny & the Love Handles

Gigi’s Cocktail Lounge
2493 Grand Ave., Ventura
Fri 7/30: Delta by the Beach w/ Randy Rich

Grapes and Hops
454 E Main St, Ventura
Music 8 pm unless other noted
Thursdays: LA Jazz Experience (7 pm)
Fri 7/30: The Salty Suites
Sat 7/31: Dive Bar Messiahs
Sat 8/7: Dianne Miller Band

The Greek
Ventura Harbor Village
Thursdays: Kenny Devoe (4-6 pm)

Keynote Lounge
10245 E Telephone Rd, Ventura
Sat 7/31: Old School

Leashless Brewing
585 E. Thompson Blvd, Ventura
Music 6:30 pm except Sundays at 3 pm
Thurs 7/29: Daniela Cardillo
Fri 7/30: Keyth Garica

Libbey Bowl
210 Signal Street, Ojai
Wednesdays: Ojai Summer Band

Made West Brewing
1744 Donlon Street, Ventura
Sun 8/1: the Devil’s Box String Band Duo (3 pm)

Margarita Villa
Ventura Harbor Village
Music 8-11; Sundays 5-8
Fri 7/30: The Tossers
Sat 7/31: Operation 90s
Sun 8/1: CRV
Fri 8/6: Vinyl Gypsies
Sat 8/7: Dive Bar Messiahs

Ojai Underground Exchange
616 Pearl Street, Ojai
Fri 7/30: Eliya Frantz w/ Ester Sophia Ray
Sat 7/31: Lola & the Back Beats
Sat 8/7: Dan Navarro

Peirano’s Market & Deli on the Terrazza
204 E. Main Street, Ventura
Sun 8/1: The Swillys (11 am)

The Raven Tavern
1651 S. Victoria Ave., Oxnard
Fri 7/30: HE
Sat 7/31: Jayden Secor

Relm
2390 Las Posas Rd., Camarillo
Fri 7/30: The Fabulous Hangovers
Sat 7/31: Eliya Frantz
Fri 8/6: Matthew Grant

Rock & Roll Pizza
305 Arneill Road, Camarillo
Tues 8/3: Bootleg Brigade, Last Point
Tues 8/10: Sick Boy

The Shores
1031 Harbor Blvd, Oxnard
Sat 7/31: CRV

Simi Civic Center Plaza
On Tapo between 118 & Alamo, Simi Valley
Sat 7/31: Ticket to Ride

Vaquero y Mar
435 E. Thompson Blvd., Ventura
Tuesdays: The Sea Hunters & Friends
Thursdays: Delta by the Beach
Sundays: 805 Allstarz

Winchesters
632 E. Main Street, Ventura
Music Thurs 5:30; Fri 7 pm; Sun 3 pm
Thurs 7/29: The Swillys
Fri 7/30: Blue Motel Room
Sun 8/1: Karen Eden & the Bad Apples
Thurs 8/5: Karen 805
Fri 8/6: Mark Masson
Sun 8/8: Spencer the Gardener

1901
740 South B Street, Oxnard
Music 6:30 – 9:30 pm
Fri 7/30: Corey Hugh
Sat 7/31: Saratonein
Fri 8/6: The Murphy’s
Sat 8/7: David Cipriani

by Pam Baumgardner
VenturaRocks.com

You know the music scene is alive when large venue events sell out; such was the case for the Tequila and Tacos Music Festival over the weekend of July 24 & 25 with Vanilla Ice, Tag Team and Ozomatli performing. I will concede, the beverage of choice may have been the driving force behind the ticket sales, but the stage was rockin’ and that’s always a cool thing. Next up for Surfer’s Point Live (Fairgrounds’ parking lot), Scotty McCreery & Rodney Atkins on Friday, July 30, and then the Spencer Makenzie’s Throw Down Cornhole & Music Festival over the weekend of August 27-29 with Mandex, Dave Rea & the Acoustic DNA and three tribute bands covering the music of AC/DC, Journey & Guns & Roses. For more details and ticket information, go to SurfersPointLive.com.

I’m also happy to see the Ventura Theater lining up shows and the first one is one you should seriously think about seeing. Not only is Lukas Nelson son to Willie, but he collaborated with Bradley Cooper on A Star is Born, and his band IS the band in the movie. The band’s brand of Country Rock is a fun vibe and the talent is stellar, so you won’t want to miss Lukas Nelson & Promise of the Real on Thursday, September 9.

More show at Ventura Theater:
The End of Summer Lockdown Tour – Friday, September 10
Mon Laferte – Wednesday September 22
Drakeo the Ruler – Friday October 1
Black Label Society: Doom Trooping over North America tour – Saturday, October 2
Yung Bleu – Tuesday, October 5
Pennywise w/ Dead Kennedys – Thursday, October 7
Pennywise w/ Strung Out – Friday, October 8 (sold out)
Elefante, Inspector – Friday, October 15
The Struts – Tuesday, November 2
GWAR – Tuesday, November 23
The Dead South – Tuesday, December 7
The Slackers – Friday, December 10

The Hueneme Beach Festival falls over the weekend of August 28 and 29, and I was looking over their impressive line-up of artists performing both days and was delighted to find out this one is also free to the public. Saturday features LAW, Fausto Cuevas y La Moderna, and Ozomatli, then on Sunday it’s Diggin Dirt, Arise Roots and Think:EXP. I love that the organizers put so much thought into their lineup, and so, just in case you didn’t know, a little bit about a few of the acts performing:

Fausto Cuevas is that caliber of musician that tours with Stevie Wonder’s band, most recently the 2014-2016 during the Key of Life world tour, though he’s performed previously with Stevie Wonder at the 2008 Democratic National Convention and at the 25^th Anniversary of the Rock n Roll Hall of Fame at Madison Square Garden in 2009. The man is that good, and the grooves he lays down are immediately infectious so prepare to dance.

Ozomatli performed a few years ago during the Ventura Music Festival and more recently in July at the Tequila and Tacos Music Festival at Surfer’s Point Live. The six-piece band plays primarily Latin, hip hop and rock music and has quite the following, and again, prepare to dance.

Think:EXP is a supergroup with members Scott Page who has worked with Pink Floyd, Supertramp and Toto, Stephen Perkins of Jane’s Addiction & Porno for Pyros, Kenny Olson of Kidd Rock and Norwood Fisher of Fishbone. The website, www.thinkesp.co describes the group, “Think:EXP strives to revolutionize the entertainment industry by bridging the gap between the human spirit and technological innovation with one-of-a-kind live, immersive concert experiences.” That certainly piques my interest!

Quick Notes: Tickets are now on sale for the Ojai Music Festival; The Garage on the east end of town took advantage of the pandemic downtime and now has a new look; Spencer the Gardener will return to Winchesters on Sunday, August 8 with their brand of fiesta party music; and Nardcore Tuesday nights continue at Rock & Roll Pizza in Camarillo with Bootleg Brigade and Last Point on August 3, and Sick Boy on August 10.

Do you have any music-related news or upcoming shows you want help publicizing? Please send all information short or long to [email protected], and for updated music listings daily, go to www.VenturaRocks.com.