A benefit for Brad Dreyer, who was seriously injured in 2009 at just 20 years of age, when he was hit by a drunk driver while riding his skateboard, is slated for Saturday, May 7, at the Sonoma Valley Veterans Memorial Building. Dryer has traveled a tough road since the collision, being in a coma for several months and when he finally awoke, essentially had to learn everything all over again, including how to breathe. He has made incredible progress over the last two years, being able to communicate with his fingers and even trying to re-learn how to play the guitar. Unfortunately, the insurance companies have not been as optimistic as his family, who have strived to get the young man the services they feel could help his recovery, and that is what the benefit will be funding; continued services for his daily care and therapy. The evening will start with the Steven Cohen Jazz Band playing jazz while guests enjoy appetizers. After a sit-down dinner, guests will dance to the sounds of Tudo Bem. There will also be a live and silent auction and a cash-prize raffle. To reserve a table, purchase a ticket and get more information, call 287-4440. To contribute or help without attending the benefit, point your browser to www.friendsofbraddreyer.com.
The Sonoma Grange Hall in Boyes Hot Springs will be hopping on Saturday, May 7, with the sounds of Cynthia Tarr and Cliff Hugo. Many may remember the duo as Cynthia Tarr and the Guys from nights at Olive & Vine in Glen Ellen. Saturday, the duo will have with them Randy Kwan on guitar and Joe Shotwell on percussion. Tarr, whose vocals have been compared to Peggy Lee and K. D. Lang, has written and performed with Keb’ Mo’ and the Manhattan Transfer. Hugo has played with many artists, including Ray Charles and Melissa Manchester. He leaves to resume a world tour with Supertramp later in May of this year. The entrance fee of $25 includes a complementary drink. Thai food from neighboring E-Saan will also be available for purchase. Tickets can be had in advance at Pharmaca and Sonoma Valley Music. For more info, call 343-1354.
Valley of the Mooneyhan Promotions is presenting a show at Sebastiani Winery and Vineyards tonight, May 6, featuring BackTrax, performing a Creedence Clearwater Revival tribute, and one raffle ticket just might win you two tickets to see John Fogerty at this year’s Jazz Plus show on Friday, May 20. Raffle tickets are $10 each and you can purchase as many as you want to try to win. “Flavors of the Bayou” buffet will be offered, as well as specials on Sebastiani wines. The night kicks off at 6 p.m. and unlike previously reported, there is no cover.
The Ledson Hotel will play host to Sheila Whitney tonight, May 6, for a night of classic jazz standards in the newly renovated and re-named Centre du Vin lounge. Whitney will be joined by Keith Saunders on piano and Chris Amberger on bass. The show kicks off at 6 p.m.
The Magnetics will be providing the entertainment at the Sunflower Caffe tonight, May 6, for the monthly artist reception, that this month will feature artist Suzanne DeVueve with wines poured by Petroni Wines. The night kicks off at 6 p.m.
Cornerstone Sonoma and Keating Wines are presenting Chris Von Sneidern on Saturday, May 7, for a 7 p.m. show. The San Francisco-based performer has recorded 13 self-produced albums over the past years, generally releasing one new album each year. Von Sneidern was also the subject of a documentary titled “Why Isn’t Chris von Sneidern Famous?” The film was featured in numerous film festivals around the world. For additional information about the show call 933 3010.
Murphy’s Irish Pub will have the bluegrass and country sounds of the Sonoma Mountain Band tonight, May 6 for an 8 p.m. show. The band owns the title of the longest-running act to play at the pub over the years. Saturday, May 7, brings in Elaine Dempsey, also for an 8 p.m. show. Sunday, May 8 has the Americana and folk sounds of the duo Sean Carscadden and Marty O’Reilly, for an early show that kicks off at 6:30 p.m.
The Taste of the Himalayas presents Dawn Angelosante tonight, May 6, for a 7:30 p.m. show in the back room of the restaurant.
The Moose Lodge will be the place tonight, May 6, for a Cinco de Mayo celebration that will feature Showcase the Band, for a 7 p.m. show, which includes an authentic Mexican meal. Tickets can be purchased at the door.
The Plaza Bistro has the Dick Conte Trio in the back room tonight, May 6, for an evening of jazz. Accompanying Conte tonight will be Bill Moody on drums and Steve Webber on bass. There is no cover for the show.
The Sonoma Valley Museum of Art will be presenting the MIX on Saturday, May 7, and will have the DJ sounds of Lionize. The event is free for museum members, and the cost of admission for the evening makes you a member for a year. The MIX kicks off at 8 p.m.
Steiners Tavern has the sounds of DJ Dave on Saturday, May 7, for a 9 p.m. start.
Mad and Eddie Duran are on the road to Petaluma tonight, May 6, at the Apple Box in Petaluma for a 6 p.m. show.
The Hellhounds will be in Napa at Uva Trattoria on Saturday, May 7, for an 8 p.m. show.
Hot 45s – Shows within a 45 minute drive from the Island
Tommy Castro – Friday, May 6.
Rancho Nicasio – Nicasio
415-662-2219
Shana Morrison – Saturday, May 7.
Rancho Nicasio – Nicasio
415-662-2219
First Fusion with Bob Weir – Saturday, May 7.
Marin Veterans Memorial Auditorium – San Rafael
415-499-6400
Metal Club with the Gray Coats – Friday, May 6
George’s Nightclub – San Rafael
415-226-0262
It’s a Beautiful Day – Saturday, May 7.
George’s Nightclub – San Rafael
415-226-0262
The English Beat – Saturday, May 7.
Bimbo’s 365 Club – San Francisco
415-474-0365
Y & T with Kip Winger – Saturday, May 7.
The Fillmore – San Francisco
415-346-6000
Pegi Young – Friday, May 6.
Napa Valley Opera House
226-7372