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Date |
Zoey's Upstairs is an intimate venue showcasing world class music where performers love to play for people who love to listen. Please refrain from conversation or cell phone use during the performances. |
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| Friday Sept. 23 8 pm |
SUZANNE PARIS![]() Suzanne's background includes touring with Michael Bolton, and opening for and/or playing with Stephen Stills, Johnny Winter, Jeffrey "Skunk" Baxter, Edgar Winter, The Temptations, Richie Havens, John Oates, Bo Diddley, Warren Zevon, and Joan Osborne. Suzanne's original music has been likened to Joni Mitchell, Bonnie Raitt, Sarah McLaughlin, and Joan Osborne. Her sound is a blend of influences one might call folk/blues. Suzanne Paris |
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| Saturday Sept. 24 8 pm |
NATHAN
McEUEN |
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| Sunday Sept. 25 7 pm |
JAMES HURLEY![]() For James, “Performing live is where the magic is. There’s a thing that happens when you’re performing that reveals the commonalities of the human experience. I’ll play a song and when it ends, I’ll realize that the audience came along with me for the ride. Music can give us a mutual understanding that transcends language or cultural differences, three minutes at a time. Nobody really knows the words to ‘Louie Louie’ but everybody relates to it at some level.” James’ exposure to different countries, cultures and communities, his own natural inclinations and his father’s eclectic tastes as a music aficionado have resulted in James’ music being a unique fusion of Blues, Rock, Jazz, Folk, and Adult Contemporary Acoustic with occasional Latin influences. One devoted fan describes him as a blend of “Sting, Santana and Harry Connick, Jr.” Others have compared him to such legendary performers as Clapton, Chet Baker, Kenny Rankin, Kenny Loggins and more. James’ latest CD – “The Sun And The Moon” – offers the organic simplicity, accessibility and vibrant immediacy of his solo acoustic performances and what has been called, “a voice that can melt your heart.” Produced with a minimum of technology, this CD provides listeners with a genuine experience of James’ natural voice combined with actual musical instruments played by real human beings. Reminiscent of traditional Jazz and Blues yet
with a different, contemporary flavor, “The Sun And The Moon”
features James’ trademark intelligent lyrics and compelling melodies. |
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| Wednesday Sept. 28 6-9 pm |
Songwriter's showcase original music and give insight into their song's and the process of their creations. Featuring Marina V.Shawn Paul.
Drink Specials from 6 - 9 pm.
Submit CDs to Michael James for inclusion or e-mail Zoeys. |
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| Thursday Sept. 29 8 pm |
BLUE EYED
SON![]() Andrew Heilprin has removed his sonic surf smoke punk sunglasses to reveal this Blue-Eyed Son. Former front man for 40 Watt Domain (a group that created the sonic surf smoke punk genre for their own being), Andrew's musical focus has shifted gears into a stripped down, acoustic orchestration. On June 1st, Andrew's manifestation will be released to the world, in the form of Blue-Eyed Son's West of Lincoln. So what exactly is West of Lincoln? Well, the ocean is. Lincoln Boulevard splits Santa Monica, California into two parts and that is where Blue-Eyed Son's inspiration can be found: deep in the big blue. Heilprin spent a lifetime and continues to spend it in the salty water and on the hot sand. From surfing on the UCLA competitive squad to stopping twice on his 130-mile round trip commute to "a big editing job for The Matrix" just to catch some waves, Heilprin has spent his fair share of time on the beach. He's also spent some time in the studio and on stage. 40 Watt Domain had spots on the Vans Warped Tour appearing with Rancid, Blink 182 and the like, as well as headlining CMJ at CBGB's. Their blend of surfing punk rock (all smoked out, of course) has graced everything from MTV's Undressed to EA Sports' Supercross 2000. But Andrew found himself increasingly happy with the music that he was making as an individual, something he called "Drew's special onemanshow for one." Building on the back of Andrew and his acoustic guitar, Blue-Eyed Son's
songs are layered with inspired piano playing and matched with an up
tempo set of kicks and snares that'll make a person get out of bed in
the morning. However, other songs slow the pace and allow Andrew's voice
to take its deserved stage. West of Lincoln is an album whose pace rises
and falls with the tide, leaving the mark of an indelible listening
experience. In 2004, the release of Blue-Eyed Son's debut album will
truly be the starting point for a picture perfect day at the beach. With SHON SULLIVAN of GOLDEN BOY |
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| Friday Sept. 30 8 pm |
BIG BLUE
HEARTS![]() Big Blue Hearts are back with their second album, Here Come Those Dreams Again, releasing on August 9, on Eagle Eye Records. “Just when I think heartbreak and Orbisonic twang have lost their youthful relevance, along comes the Big Blue Hearts record. Sounds to me like the band decided to forego the post modern safety of digitally edited recording in favor of a sack full of good songs and a funky analogue tape recorder. Well done lads,” endorsed the much-respected Rodney Crowell upon hearing the upcoming album. Big Blue Hearts are David Fisher, lead vocals and rhythm guitar, Scott Minchk, lead guitar and vocals, J.B. Burton, bass and vocals, Greg Sobol, drums and vocals. “One part Dwight Yoakum, one part Roy Orbison, a pinch of the Mavericks makes for a healthy dose of Big Blue Hearts. You may have heard something like it, but prepare yourself for something new, fresh and totally addicting,” according to Tate A. Dillard at KKCN FM in San Angelo, TX. Big Blue Hearts eponymous debut was June 3, 1997 on Geffen Records. “I know what it’s like to be touted as ‘the next big thing’ at a major label,” observed Fisher, who survived the sale of a record company and subsequent contract assignment. “Having done that, we chose the DIY path in the independent world this time. We’ve assembled a strong team of supporting players and we’ve been very encouraged by the warm reception our music has gotten at radio.” Roots Music Reporter has already bestowed a five-star review on Here
Come Those Dreams Again: “Big Blue Hearts release an album that
is so noteworthy it is difficult to find words to describe it. This
band is simply very good and the songs are fantastic. The production
on this CD is excellent and they have a sound of their own. Add all
this up and the total equals a hit record that will soon light up consoles
in radio stations everywhere. Roots Rock with a Country edge that is
just fabulous.” |
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| Saturday October 1 8 pm |
TERESA
JAMES & THE RHYTHM TRAMPS |
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| Sunday October 2 7 pm |
BLACK
KALE
Kenny Edwards is a remarkable, articulate person - passionate and knowledgeable about authentic roots and country music, world and classical music, a superb guitarist, mandolin player, bass player, lyricist, composer, singer and arranger. He is also a surfer and a great cook. He has been part of American music's history, but he continues to explore new territory - he's still hungry for great music, and that's probably what makes him the most valuable of all. Kenny Edwards
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| Wednesday October 5 6-9 pm |
Songwriter's showcase original music and give insight into their song's and the process of their creations. Featuring Alex Peterson
Drink Specials from 6 - 9 pm.
Submit CDs to Michael James for inclusion or e-mail Zoeys. |
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| Thursday October 6 7 pm |
STILL
ALIVE WAY AFTER FIVE!!!! - no cover
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Friday |
TROY DIXON Troy has performed over 500 shows, from intimate coffee shops to large theaters and festivals, bringing an infectious mix of voice, words and guitar that combine for a passionate and unforgettable live experience. Moving easily between stark introspection and unbridled hope, Troy's songwriting blends the influences of country, rock, folk and soul in a style that is uniquely his own. Troy is currently touring with former Southern
Cross drummer Jon Golson and bassist Keith Jones, forming the current
lineup of the Troy Dixon Band. |
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| Saturday October 8 8 pm |
NATHAN
McEUEN - CD Release Party - Courtyard Concert |
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| Sunday Ocrober 9 7 pm |
PAUL SPRAWL![]() Paul Sprawl plays acoustic guitar using extended techniques in unique combinations, writes songs, sings with a baritone voice, and plays harmonica. Nobody is like him, but his intention isn’t to be different; it’s to be authentic and worthwhile. (check out the videos on the front page of this website) This vagabond troubadour has been traversing the dirt roads and interstate highways of America since the turn of the millennium. About his lifestyle he has this to say, "It's up and down, but a little more up than down, so I'm able to continue and I love it". Give this music a chance. Go to a show. Watch the videos. Listen for yourself. Form your own opinion. With performances in 34 states in the USA and shows in Canada and Germany,
Paul Sprawl has been putting in six to eight months a year on the road
around the country since 2001 and a national audience is developing
for his work. Since his 1999 cd, Blue Suitcase, produced by Lee Townsend
(Bill Frisell, Kelly Joe Phelps) for the German label, Intuition, he's
put out five more full-length cds on his own label, Vagabond. Paul
Sprawl |
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| Wednesday October 12 6-9 pm |
Songwriter's showcase original music and give insight into their song's and the process of their creations. Featuring Amethyst.
Drink Specials from 6 - 9 pm.
Submit CDs to Michael James for inclusion or e-mail Zoeys. |
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| Thursday October 13 6-9:30 pm |
Blue Grass Jam Nightno cover Every 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month is Bluegrass Jam night at Zoey's. The Ventura Bluegrass Jam is now into its second year and we are very excited to be hosted by Zoey's Cafe. For those of you who have never attended one of our jams, all you need is an interest in bluegrass music and a friendly smile. Our ongoing event has been a blast right from the first night. With space for two or even three jam circles, all skill levels are welcome and spectators are especially appreciated. Your hosts Gene Rubin, Phil Salazar and Nina Weisman look forward to meeting you. If you'd like to be on our Ventura Bluegrass Jam email list contact: generubinaudio@earthlink.net . Bluegrass Jam |
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Friday |
BLUE STEW
- CD Release Party In June 1996, they were voted one of Ventura County's Best Bands, in "The Reporter's 11th Annual Readers Poll." |
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| Saturday October 15 8 pm |
RANDY RICH
AND THE RAVENS![]() Randy Rich, a long-time Ventura County resident plays his original rock n' blues with a tight rhythm section. |
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| Sunday October 16 7 pm |
MARINA V![]() Born in Soviet Russia to a Communist nuclear physicist, Marina grew up in Moscow singing and making up her own melodies before she could talk. Then Marina discovered the Beatles. The Beatles invaded Marina's mind and she spent hours playing their songs on the piano and even more hours trying to find more Beatles tapes (which was quite difficult as Western music had just started to appear on the Russian markets). Marina did try to write a few more songs but was too self conscious to keep them. Everything changed when Marina turned 15. She entered a national competition for a scholarship to study in the U.S.A. for a year and won, beating thousands of Russian peers. That year made Marina realize that the American culture was more nurturing to individual creativity and she decided to move by herself to America - whatever it took. Marina had to return to Moscow at 16 only to find out her mom was moving to Australia and that her year of study abroad wouldn't count academically in Russia. To finance her trip back to the USA Marina took a job at a beverage franchise as a secretary and saved up her money whilst helping support her family and studying hard to finish high school. At 17, Marina finally found a way back to America, but life was far from easy. "I had a lot on my mind. I felt very guilty about leaving my family and my country, I was very lonely and scared trying to adapt to the new way of life. I was commuting to college and working a few part-time jobs. I've had a number of terrible relationships & life-altering experiences of which I am not quite ready to [openly] talk about. Writing songs became my drug, therapy and my spiritual healer. It helped me come to terms with many things". Shortly after Marina turned 19, she met Nick Baker, who inspired her to seriously pursue a career in music. At about the same time Marina entered her college talent competition, sang her original song "Leaving" and won first prize. After receiving dozens of emails and comments from students saying how much her song moved them, Marina finally decided to go into the studio and record her songs. She received so many pre-orders from students & faculty, that she was able to finance the whole recording session and to manufacture the CD (Let Me Dream). Her first show in a little coffeehouse in Jacksonville, IL, was filled to the fire capacity! After exhausting their options in Illinois & being voted "the best Midwest artist", Marina & Nick decided to relocate to Los Angeles. "When Nick & I first moved to L.A., we didn't know ANYBODY. We couldn't even get a club show because all of the venues expected a certain 'draw'. Then I started playing Borders Books & Music & any other gigs I could get, and made fans & friends one person at a time." After sending hundreds of demos to the music industry, Marina caught attention of David Krebs, a renowned manager from New York, who's been involved in building the careers of Don McLean, Trans-Siberian Orchestra and Aerosmith, among others. In April 2005, Marina released “Simple Magic”, with two songs on the CD produced by Jack Douglas, a legendary record producer, whose discography ranges from John Lennon & George Harrison to Aerosmith (including their new release, "Honkin' on Bobo"). "As a huge fan of some of the artists Jack's worked with, I was honored to record my songs with him," Marina exclaims. A self-described ambitious workaholic, Marina continues touring, writing
& recording while looking for an artist-friendly record label. "I
love writing songs and I really really love performing them for my fans.
I can't imagine a day without music. I will be doing this forever."
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| Wednesday October 19 6-9 pm |
Songwriter's showcase original music and give insight into their song's and the process of their creations.
Drink Specials from 6 - 9 pm.
Submit CDs to Michael James for inclusion or e-mail Zoeys. |
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| Thursday October 20 7:30 pm |
SPOKEN WORD
SALON - poetry - no cover![]() Kurt Paradox With Special Guest Mama Val Kurt has featured at Moorpark College, Ventura College, Zoey's Café,
Kids Arts, Buffalo Records and some other odd places during the last
few years. A Ventura local, he's published in ARTLIFE and produced numerous
'zines and chapbooks with covers he silkscreens himself. His writes
short pithy provocative poems, like a young Charles Bukowski Paradox. was San Jose Individual Slam Champion of 2004, Grand Slam
Poetry Slam Champion Berkeley 2004, finalist at the 2004 Individual
World Poetry Slam, member of the San Jose Nat'l Poetry Slam Team 2004
and the Sacramento Slam Team 2003. A talented and trained Special guest Mama Val will introduce Kurt and Paradox and kick off
the open mic. A massage therapist with a sideline in aromatherapy and
an on-line business mypunkbaby.com, she hosts the Sunday open mic at
the |
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| Friday October 21 8 pm |
THE TATTERS![]() The Tatters are Claudia Craig, Mary Z. Wilson and Erika Harding backed by the Lowly Sidemen Danny Wilson, Bill Flores and Jack Joshua. "It's an inventive mix of elements, old time folk/country/blues with a good dose of Swing era girl trio harmonies. ...I like the outfits, too! Although much time and effort has gone into arrangements, the end result is still loose, breezy and fun!"--Pat Flynn--Formerly of the Newgrass Revival The Tatters |
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| Saturday October 22 8 pm |
AK &
ZUIE![]() Ak & Zuie's "polymetric funk" is a unique style that combines West African rhythms with elements of rock, jazz, and even Bach. Jay and Gallagher devote themselves to exploring how harmony and rhythm connect to create overtones and spaces that suggest entire ensembles. Through their use of interwoven time signatures, eight- and twelve- string basses and soaring vocals, they produce an enormous sound. Guitar, keyboard, horns, and percussion seem present, yet all that music actually emanates solely from bass and drums. Ak & Zuie |
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| Sunday October 23 7 pm |
SHAWN JONES![]() Shawn Jones began winning over audiences with his unique blend of exceptional singing, songwriting, and guitar playing at a very young age. Shawn has become a popular fixture in the California Southland and in Nashville, with forays as far a field as Europe. Most recently, Shawn completed his third album project appropriately titled, “All In Good Time”, with Grammy winning producer/engineer David Z . In June/July 2004, Shawn played for international Troops at Military Bases in Iraq, and the Balkans in support of World Peace and Freedom. Shawn Jones hit the road in May/June 2005 on a one-month tour of live performances and BBC radio spots in the Republic of Ireland and UK. “I grew up influenced by my favorite rock guitarists, Clapton and Hendrix”, says Shawn, “though my father raised me on Hank Sr. and Waylon .” Waylon Jennings instantly became of fan of Shawn’s after seeing him play one night in Los Angeles. “The first time I saw him”, says Waylon, “it was just Shawn and a guitar in a small room and he was drawing that music out of every fiber of himself. It was obvious to me that he is a world-class singer, writer and musician all wrapped into one.” Waylon was so impressed with Shawn’s talent that he invited him to play on his 1996 release “Right For The Time” and at Willie Nelson’s 1996 Fourth Of July Picnic. Waylon also asked Shawn to play lead guitar in his band for the record breaking 1996 Lollapalooza Tour. Shawn shared “main stage” with headliners: Metallica, Soundgarden, and the Ramones, appearing in front of in excess of 30,000 fans. The unconditional acceptance of Waylon at Lollapalooza exemplified to Shawn that, however diverse; music speaks to all people. “I had always written and performed, but after that experience I was able to carve out my own niche”, says Shawn. Shortly thereafter in 1997, Shawn was invited to Frankfurt, Germany to play guitar, arrange, and Co-produce the debut album for the artist “Emma” on MCA Records/Germany. After his stint with Waylon and his trip to Germany, Shawn spent some time in both Nashville and Los Angeles writing with some of the music industry’s top writers and artists. While in Nashville, Shawn met CMA Winner and two-time Grammy Winner, Steve Wariner and they immediately became friends. Shawn & Steve wrote and recorded a song together in Steve’s studio soon after. The mysterious ballad, “So Here I Am”, a song in which Wariner makes a guest appearance, is the fourth track on Shawn’s debut album “Natural Soul”. The song went on to place 3rd (out of 3,000) in the John Lennon International Songwriting Competition in 1999. Shawn’s song “Invincible Me” was featured in the 100th episode of “Dawson’s Creek” on the Fox network. Jones and his band made a cameo appearance in the Fine Line Pictures release, “Tumbleweeds”, starring Golden Globe winning actress, Janet McTeer. Two of his songs, “Long Way Down” and “Lightening Strike Me Down” are heard in the movie, and the barn burning single “Long Way Down” was included on the RCA/Victor soundtrack album. Other artists on the album include: Johnny Cash, Lyle Lovett, Buck Owens, Emmylou Harris and Lucinda Williams. Shawn’s song “Lightening Strike Me Down” was also selected for the Hollywood Pictures film, “Mystery Alaska”. Other songwriting partners include: The Shawn Jones Band is an American Roots/Rock
group with an international appeal. They are true to form of their influences
spanning from all the greats in Rock, Rhythm & Blues, & Country.
He and his band mates have been working in excess of 250 dates a year,
creating new fans and followers everywhere they perform. |
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| Wednesday October 26 6-9 pm |
Songwriter's showcase original music and give insight into their song's and the process of their creations.
Drink Specials from 6 - 9 pm.
Submit CDs to Michael James for inclusion or e-mail Zoeys. |
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| Thursday October 27 6-9:30 pm |
Blue Grass Jam Nightno cover Every 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month is Bluegrass Jam night at Zoey's. The Ventura Bluegrass Jam is now into its second year and we are very excited to be hosted by Zoey's Cafe. For those of you who have never attended one of our jams, all you need is an interest in bluegrass music and a friendly smile. Our ongoing event has been a blast right from the first night. With space for two or even three jam circles, all skill levels are welcome and spectators are especially appreciated. Your hosts Gene Rubin, Phil Salazar and Nina Weisman look forward to meeting you. If you'd like to be on our Ventura Bluegrass Jam email list contact: generubinaudio@earthlink.net . Bluegrass Jam |
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| Friday October 28 8 pm |
JOE PAQUIN![]() "..A combo platter of gypsy-tinged western swing, vintage juke-box country, rollicking roots-rock and gospel....grit, intelligence, and humor throughout"...Mike Thomas, Pacific Sun "…Paquin is a definite throwback to the golden age of country. Sitting somewhere in the middle of Robert Earl Keen, Willie Nelson, George Jones, and Bob Wills sits Paquin, happy to be there and yet talented and skittish enough to keep switching his style song by song. His vocal style reminds one of another legend, Roger Miller, with a little Wills mixed in for good measure. His songs are very jazzy, strongly leaning towards western swing and should appeal to fans of that genre as well as to folks loving classic country like Nelson, Cash and Jones. For those looking for redneck rock masquerading as country, be warned--none of that here. This is well-mannered stuff...and done real well, to boot"… Scott Homewood, Freight Train Boogie |
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| Saturday October 29 8 pm |
ZOEY'S HALLOWEEN
PARTY!!! Details to be announced! |
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| Sunday October 30 7 pm |
TBA | |
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