Blues & JazzView
by Eric Benson
“If you love music you’re gonna love this”
Ah, the summer wears on with concerts in the park; farmers market, and plenty of heat good for the tomatoes- but not for me. At times like these, I like to get out early and cower inside mid-day, and return to the outside world when the night is cool.
There is plenty to do, so let’s get right to it:
Blue Monday Party & Invitational Jam returns to the Barkin’ Dog Grill this August 8th, with Ultra Lounge, special guest Derik Rolando, from the Escovedo Family Band on Latin Percussion. The band is a super-group of all the best players in the area with a 7-piece house band hosting. The Blue Monday Band features: Lead Vocalist, Guitar and Bass Player: Dave Sousa, Johnny Valdes on Guitar, Tim Allen on Bass; Vocals, Dave Hawks; Drums, Eric Benson; along with Pat Governor on Keys & Horn Section; Andrew Rosenblum playing the Sax & Trumpet, and Jamie Dubberly playing the Trombone.
The band plays: Jazz, R&B, Funk, Latin, Rock, and a little of everything else with special guests sitting in for listening and dancing. Show starts from 7pm to 10:00 PM; with food and drink available in an all age venue. Call The Dog for reservations: (209) 572-2341. If you play, come on down and sit in with the best musicians in the area, it’s going to be smoking!
Making a guest appearance is everyone’s favorite promoter back out of retirement, John Griswold returning live to the scene at Lucca Winery in Ripon. He is bringing in a Michael Jackson tribute, “Foreverland 14-piece Band” with food, wine tasting, and art exhibition. Doors open at 5:00PM with wine tasting, bar and food by Modesto’s own, Christopher Bonera with art exhibit. If you enjoy his events at the SOS, wait until you see this venue and show. Tickets: WWW.red-tie.org, call John if you have any questions at: (209) 543-4261
The Gallo Center for the Arts for the month of August: 8/2 Kansa, 8/6 Joan Jett and the Blackhearts, 8/7 Little Joe Y la Familia and lastly, the Valley Talent Project 8/26 to 8/27.
SAVE THE DATE: Friday Sept 9th the Mistlin Gallery hosts their annual fundraiser Gala with plenty of art, food, drink and entertainment. One of my favorite vocalists, Gloria Scott will be singing with local all-star band; Tim Allen on Bass & Vocals; Ian Stambaugh on Drums, and Andrew Rosenblum on Guitar & Horns. Tickets are affordable and go to a great cause so come on out. The event runs from 6:00PM to 9:30PM.
Come back out for third Thursday Art Walk 5:00PM to 9:00 PM for some great art & music in downtown Modesto! Lowdown on the Jam Session in the Downtown: Barkin’ Dog Thursday Night Jazz Jams with Dave Dow, Queen Bean Sundays’ “Open Mic-Night” is also an all age environment.
Remember to please support our local live venues for live music and the arts; so think globally and act locally.
All the best, peace out! Eric Benson, cell 209, 918-7033.
