Cynthia Tarr Archives - Sonoma Music Scene

Vintage Festival Weekend features an abundance of live music

For the 115th consecutive year, the Valley of the Moon Vintage Festival, the second longest running festival in the state, with the longest being the Festival of Roses in Pasadena, CA, will take over the Historic Sonoma Plaza which will be full of music, family fun, festivities and wine. The festival has to be one of the most misunderstood events in the Valley, at least since we’ve been here. Long time residents remember the days of the potato toss, face painting and childrens activities, all of which are still there. Newcomers enjoy the art, wine and song and don’t know much about the history of the festival. That story is a whole column on its own. The fact remains that the festival is a place where dozens of non-profits are encouraged, for minimal cost, to set up booths and raise money for their causes, some raising enough to keep them funded all year. All this is paid for by the proceeds of the festival, which is entirely non-profit. No money is kept as profit. All city and county fees for services are also paid for by the festival. Lately, live music has been a big part of the festival, with this year being no exception, with a nice mixture of local and out-of-town talent. Tonight,

Sept. 28, it’s patrons night at the historic barracks on the Plaza, featuring Wonderbread 5. This event is the only cover event for music of the weekend, and tickets, if available, can be purchased at the door. The rest of the weekend is all about the Sonoma Plaza. Saturday, Sept. 29, there are two stages for live music. The wine stage will have Mary Jenson, Jason Bodlovich followed by Cynthia Tarr and the Guys. The main stage features the David Thom Band, Terrie Odabi and Pure Soul followed by Mitch Woods and his Rocket 88’s. Sunday, Sept. 30, the wine stage welcomes Mad and Eddie Duran, the Dick Conte Trio and the Carlos Herrera Latin Trio. The main stage has White Wall, Freddy Lopez followed by Carlos Reyes. All of the entertainment in the plaza is free and open to the public.

Sebastiani Winery and Vineyards is having the last Friday night music event of the season tonight, Sept. 28, featuring the Rolling Blackouts, and it’s also the last food truck Friday event for the year. The food trucks roll in about 5:30 p.m. and the music in the tasting room kicks off at 6 p.m. There is no cover and the event is family and dog friendly.

Glen Ellen is hoping with live music this weekend, starting Saturday, Sept. 29, at the newly re-opened Grist Mill Bar and Grill with local favorites the WildKats, starting at 9 p.m.

Olive and Vine in the Jack London Village is starting the Sunday Songwriter Series back up, kicking off with John Burdick and friends, and the doors open at 6 p.m. There will be small plates and a special menu available during the music.

The El Verano Inn is keeping up with weekly shows, and tonight Sept. 28, is a special one, featuring Talk That Talk. You may have been lucky enough to get a ticket to see them at the Sonoma Community Center about a month back, but if you missed the act that contains the legendary Roy Blumenfeld from the Blues Project, former members of John Lee Hookers band along with locals Bob Mc Bain and Dave Aguilar, then tonight is your second chance. That night, the act will have Stefanie Keys, from Big Brother and the Holding Company on vocals. In addition to it being a retirement party for Dave Aguilar, it will also be a warm-up for the bands appearance the next day at the Monterey Pop Festival. There is no cover for the show that kicks off at 9 p.m.

The Annex Wine Bar, located next to the Community Cafe on West Napa Street is beginning to have live music as often as four nights a week, and tonight, Sept. 28, they are presenting Chris Hanlin, kicking off at 5 p.m. There is no cover and small plates will be available.

If you miss Chris Hanlin tonight, you can catch him on Saturday, Sept. 29, in Kenwood at the tasting room of Michael Muscardini and Ty Caton, celebrating their fifth anniversary of being open, kicking off at 5 p.m. There is a cover at the door.

The Swiss Hotel has the classic country sounds of Train Wreck Junction in the back patio on Saturday, Sept. 29, starting at 3 p.m. Drink and food specials will be available.

Murphy’s Irish Pub welcomes the Tonewoods tonight, Sept. 28, for an 8 p.m. show. There will be variety night at the pub on Saturday, Sept. 29, a comedy show, featuring Nate Follen, Danny Minch and Torio Van Grol and following the show, there will be a live music from Sean Carscadden and Marty O’Reilly. Seats are limited and tickets can be had by calling 548-1225. Sunday, Sept. 30, it’s traditional Celtic music from Kith and Kin, kicking off at 6:30 p.m.

The Moose Logdge has a fish fry tonight, Sept. 28, which will feature live music from Showcase the Band as part of “No Cover Fridays.” The show gets underway at 6:30 p.m.

It’s a movie and a show in the Jack London State Historical Park on Saturday, Sept. 29. The movie is the classic Jack London thriller “Klondike Fever” and the music will be provided by the thrilling Jeff Falconer. The night kicks off at 5:30 p.m. and picnic baskets are welcome. Tickets are available by pointing your browser to www.jacklondonpark.com or at the door the night of the event.

The Plaza Bistro has Jason Bodlovich tonight, Sept. 28, for a 7 p.m. show that will feature local 15 year-old drummer Owen Barrett. Saturday, Sept. 29, it’s the Freddy Lopez Quintet, also for a 7 p.m. show. There is no cover either night.

The Blue Moon Saloon has the reggae grooves of Dan Martin and the Noma Rocksteady Band on Saturday, Sept. 29, kicking off at 10 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 30, brings the weekly Sunday blues jam, also starting at 10 p.m. There is no cover either night.

Chateau St. Jean Winery in Kenwood, has a wine release party that will feature live music from Solid Air and the Highway Robbers on Saturday, Sept. 29, starting at 11 a.m. For tickets and more info, call 877-478-5326.

Traffic Jam will be at the Phoenix Theater in Petaluma tonight, Sept. 28, for an 8 p.m. show.

Brewnel will be at Papas Taverna in Petaluma tonight, Sept. 28, for a 7 p.m. show.

Hot 45s – Shows within a 45 minute drive from the Island

Aimee Mann – Saturday, Sept. 29
The Fillmore – San Francisco
415-346-6000

Aimee Mann – Sunday, Sept. 30
Uptown Theater – Napa
259-0123

The Outlaws – Wednesday, Oct. 3
Uptown Theater – Napa
259-0123

Tom Rigney and Flambeau – Saturday, Sept. 29
142 Throckmorton – Mill Valley
415-383-9600

Blackhawk – Saturday, Sept. 29
Sweetwater Music Hall – Mill Valley
415-388-3850

The Outlaws – Monday, Oct. 1
Sweetwater Music Hall – Mill Valley
415-388-3850

Jimmy Vaughan – Sunday, Sept. 30
Mystic Theatre – Petaluma
765-2121

Variety show at Sebastiani Theatre

Mary Sue Ulven-Rank (Maris) thought it would be fun to have a private party at Sebastiani Theatre for her birthday and invite some of her friends. The thing rapidly grew into a “who’s-who” of local performers, and it became clear that she had to go public with the event, so on Saturday, May 5, kicking off at 2 p.m., it’s ”Cinco de Maris.” Zoe Rank will be reprising her role as “Trixie,” the Sebastiani Theatre’s ticket-taking mannequin, and brother Spencer Rank also returns to Sonoma, joining his sister on stage with Roger “the Magic Man” Rhoten, Jeff “the Last Crooner” Gilbert, Cliff Hugo, Tommy Thomsen, Dave Aguilar, Mario Allioto Jr., Sarah Summers, Mark Dennis, Cynthia Tarr, the Hot Flashes and the entire Rank family. Over the past 18 years, the Rank family has enjoyed participating in various Sebastiani productions, including Witchie Poo, holiday extravaganzas, Cat Austin’s ETC!, Kate Kennedy’s Avalon Players and more. All event proceeds will help Roger and Diana Rhoten continue their mission to provide live entertainment and creative opportunities for all ages while preserving the historic Sonoma treasure, the Sebastiani Theatre. Tickets are available at Readers Books and at the box office, from Trixie, of course, on the day of the show.

The Mix is back at the Sonoma Valley Museum of Art on Saturday, May 5, at 7 p.m. with an evening of art, music, cocktails and an interactive art project inspired by the current exhibition “Color Theory: The Use of Color in Contemporary Art.” Guests are encouraged to wear their best ’60s inspired outfits. DJ Couleur will be laying down ‘60s grooves and Captain Lou will be bartending. Wines from Beaulieu Vineyards and Provenance will also be poured. The event is free to museum members, but for the price of admission, you will then become a member and be eligible for access to many of the events over the next year.

Mexican vocalist Luna Itzel will be performing for one night only in the Ledson Lounge tonight, May 4, for an evening of contemporary Mexican music. Itzel has Fourteen years and seven discs that have allowed her to interpret different musical styles. For Itzel, the traditional Mexican music is the best route to share what exists in her heart. There is no cover for the show.

The first, of what is sure to be many, benefits for Austin Ridge is set for Saturday, May 5, at the El Verano Inn, kicking off at 8:30 p.m. Several DJ’s will be stepping up to lay down oldies, rock, hip hop and dubstep to keep the evening hopping. There is no admission charge, but contributions will be accepted for Ridge throughout the evening.

HopMonk Tavern Sonoma has live music tonight, May 4, from Boys & Girls. Based out of Santa Rosa, their debut album “The Feel of the Sun” came out October 2011 and is a mix of vibes and styles ranging from the intense energy and emotion of The End, to the laid back groove of Winter Moon. Showtime is 9 p.m.on the inside stage. Saturday, May 5, the tavern welcomes Roem Baur. Picking up books from the local library, Baur taught himself guitar and piano and began writing songs that would inevitably lead to him to drop classical music to pursue his love of the blues, soul, and folk music. Showtime is also 9 p.m. on the inside stage. Sunday, May 6, it’s Nate Lopez who plays a custom electric 8-string hybrid bass-guitar and an acoustic 7-string guitar. Over the years, Lopez has acquired a broad array of musical interests and skills, and is always exploring different sounds and experiences. That show kicks off at 1 p.m. in the beer garden. There is no cover for any of the shows.

Murphy’s Irish Pub welcomes the Sonoma Mountain Band to the snug tonight, May 4, for an 8 p.m. show. Saturday, May 5, it’s Andrew Freeman, also for an 8 p.m. show. Sunday, May 6, it’s an early show, kicking off at 6:30 p.m. with Out of the Blue. There is no cover for nay of the shows at the pub.

Rancho Viejo Restaurant will be celebrating Cinco de Mayo with an appearance by Carlos Herrera on Saturday, May 5. The event is also a celebration of the grand opening of the new patio at the venue and opening for Herrera will be the Folkloric Dance Group performing Mexican folk dance. After Herreras set, it will be Karaoke until 1 a.m. The evening kicks off at 5 p.m. and there is no cover.

The Blue Moon Saloon has DJ music tonight, May 4, with Ignite the Fire, Rap and Roll Music, DJ Bacchus, DJ Divine Proportions and special guests. The show kicks off at 9 p.m. and there is no cover. The blues jam continues on Sunday, May 6, starting at 10 p.m.

Sonoma Springs Brewery welcomes Dan Martin tonight, May 4, for a 7 p.m. show.

Lou-Patti-Promo — Louie and Patti from Showcase the band

The Moose Lodge has Showcase the Band on Sunday, May 6, for a 5 p.m. show. The venue is quickly becoming a great place for music and dancing, with a stage and a wooden dance floor.

The Plaza Bistro welcomes the Rolando Morales Duo tonight, May 4, for a 7 p.m. show. Morales will present a special Cinco de Mayo show highlighting “La Canción Latina,” songs from the popular Latin American songbook. There is no cover for the show.

The Whiskey Thieves are in Napa for a marathon show at Duckhorn Winery on Saturday, May 5, for a show that kicks off at 11 a.m. and wraps at 5 p.m.

Garen Patterson will be at the Marsh Theater in San Francisco on Monday, May 7, where he will be presenting a portion of his play, “Martta’s Inferno.” Showtime is 7:30 p.m.

The Hellhounds are on the road to Petaluma on Saturday, May 5, with a show at the First Edition, kicking off at 9:30 p.m.

Hot 45s – Shows within a 45 minute drive from the Island

Miles Schon– Saturday, May 5
19 Broadway – Fairfax
415-459-0293

Petty Theft – Friday, May 4
Mystic Theatre – Petaluma
765-2121

The Pulsators – Saturday, May 5
Last Day Saloon – Santa Rosa
545-2343

Tommy Castro and the Painkillers – Sunday, May 6
Biscuits & Blues – San Francisco
415-292-2583

Bill Champlain – Friday, May 4
142 Throckmorton – Mill Valley
415-383-9600

Indie act Anadel appearing at Olive & Vine

While not exactly the Partridge Family, it’s truly a family affair when it comes to the Napa-based band Anadel. Anadels beginnings started when vocalist J. T. Bailey began to compose music and lyrics while in his teens. It wasn’t long until his sister, Keri Bailey, on violin and backing vocals, joined in. Soon after father, Tom Bailey jumped in on drums, and finally, brother Steven Bailey on keyboard. In 2010, the family decided to expand and develop their sound as a band and enlisted the help of two additional band members to fill out the sound, and Anadel came to be a gigging act. You can catch the act on Sunday, March 18, at Olive & Vinein Glen Ellen, as part of the Sunday Songwriter Sessions series. Showtime is 5 p.m.

BackTrax is back in action this week at the annual Rotary International St. Patricks day event on Saturday, March 17, at the Sonoma Community Center. The evening includes a corned beef and cabbage dinner, festivities and a raffle for a chance to win a two-week trip to Ireland or $10,000. Tickets can be purchased at the door starting at 6 p.m. Show starts at 7 p.m.

The reggae act Midnight Sun Massive will be back in town at the Olde Sonoma Public House on Saturday, March 17, for a reggae island celebration. Showtime is 7:30 p.m.

Of course, it wouldn’t be a St. Patrick’s Day in Sonoma without action from Murphy’s Irish Pub on Saturday, March 17, and they’re getting an early start. Kicking off at 2 p.m. will be the Sweet Penny Royals. Following them at 5 p.m. will be the Gentlemen Soldiers and wrapping up the evening will be the Carrtunes. Friday, March 16, the pub welcomes the Hellhounds for an 8 p.m. show and on Sunday, March, 18, it’s the Shades of Green for an early show, kicking off at 6:30 p.m.

The Grange Hall Barn Dance is back at the Grange Hall in Boyes Hot Springs on Saturday, March 17, kicking off at 8 p.m. Rebecca King, a renowned contra dance pianist in the Bay Area, will play with Howard Booster on fiddle and the moves will be called by caller Mike Fynan, who will teach the reels and circles in advance, then continue calling while the band plays. All attendees under 26 are admitted free.

Cynthia Tarr and the Guys will be at the Sonoma Community Center tonight, March 16, for a night of music. With Tarr tonight will be Cliff Hugo on bass, Ken Cook on piano, Alex Aspinal on drums and Randy Kwan on guitar and together they will perform two lively sets of jazz, rock, shuffles, ballads, cha cha, and soul. Tickets will be available at the door. Showtime is 7:30 p.m.

The Heaters will be at Steiners Tavern tonight, March 16, with an all-star line-up. Typically on drums at the Sunday night blues jam, Adrian Trevino will be on guitar, along with Jason Huybers. Andrew Emer will fill the bass role with Bob McBain on keyboards and J. B. Duff on drums. Showtime is 10 p.m. and there is no cover.

The Epicurean Connection will have a variety of piano players as part of the Sonoma Gaydar group tonight, March 16, kicking off at 6 p.m. Enkidu wines will be on hand and apparently many members of the group play piano so they will be taking turns tickling the ivories.

Wildflower Weed will be at Wellington Vineyards as part of the Savor Sonoma event on Saturday, March, 17, kicking off at noon. The event is a ticketed event that gets you access to more than a dozen wineries in Sonoma Valley. For tickets and more info, point your browser to www.heartofsonomavalley.com.

The Moose Lodge has the polka sounds and much more from Showcase the Band on Sunday, March 18, kicking off at 5 p.m. If you’ve been missing the dances at Little Switzerland on Sundays, they’re trying to revive the scene at the lodge

The Ledson Lounge welcomes back Jess Petty and Ken Chambers on Saturday, March 17, for a 6:30 p.m. show. Petty plays trumpet and flugelhorn, and sings in a strong jazz vocal style that is his own, and is considered a world-class musician. He began his musical career in the Monterey Bay area, gigging with other musicians, and studying with Bud Clooney, a great trumpeter with the Harry James band. There is no cover for the show.

The El Verano Inn has the Mountain Squirrels on Saturday, March. 17, for a night of classic rock and roll with a tad of country. Showtime is 8:30 p.m. and there is no cover.

The Plaza Bistro has the Jeff Massanari Trio in the back room for a night of jazz tonight, March 16, kicking off at 7 p.m. Joining guitarist Massaneri tonight will be Tim Campbell on organ and Marshall Gentry on drums. Saturday, March 17, the bistro welcomes Kristen Strom with Scott Sorkin on guitar, also for a 7 p.m. show. There is no cover either night.

“The Sonoma Sinatra,” Stan Pappas, will be on the road to Rickey’s Restaurant in Novato tonight, March 16, for a 7 p.m. show. Pappas will have with him Jon Shearer on piano.

Don Trotta will be at the Penngrove Pub on Saturday, March 17, at 9 p.m.

Bound to Ride is at the Rhythm and Brews event in Lakeport on Saturday, March 17, for a show at noon.

Local guitarist Michael Hinton will be with the legendary Barry “The Fish” Melton at Georges Nightclub tonight, March 16, for a 9 p.m. show.

On a personal note, we want to give our sincere condolences to the Hill family of Sonoma on the passing of patriarch Gerald Hill, a truly great American. His legacy will not soon be forgotten.

Hot 45s – Shows within a 45 minute drive from the Island

Jerry Hannan – Saturday, March 17.
Rancho Nicasio – Nicasio
415-662-2219

Unauthorized Rolling Stones – Friday, March 16.
Mystic Theatre – Petaluma
765-2121

Peter Frampton – Saturday, March 17.
Marin Veterans Memorial Auditorium – San Rafael
415-499-6400

David Grisman Quintet – Friday, March 16.
Yoshi’s – San Francisco
415-655-5600

Drive By Truckers – Friday, March 16.
The Fillmore – San Francisco
415-346-6000

Marshall Tucker Band – Saturday, March, 17.
Uptown Theater – Napa
259-0123

Little Feat – Sunday, March 18.
Uptown Theater – Napa
259-0123

Barry “The Fish” Melton – Friday, March 16.
George’s Nightclub – San Rafael
415-226-0262

Santa Rosa Symphony – Set Six – Saturday – Monday, March 17 – 19.
Wells Fargo Center – Santa Rosa
546-3600

Holiday music aplenty this weekend

The Sonoma Hometown Band will be in action two times this weekend for this years “Christmas Concert.” Tonight, Dec. 16, for the first time, the band will be at the Sonoma Community Center for a 7 p.m. show. Sunday, Dec. 18, the band will be at its traditional venue, the Sebastiani Theatre for a 1 p.m. show. Both concerts are free and open to the public, although donations will be accepted.

St. Andrew Presbyterian Church will be performing their 18th annual “Christmas Concert for La Luz” on Sunday, Dec. 18. The show has become an important part of the mission effort at St. Andrew and helping La Luz each year has become a tradition. The music will consist of familiar carols sung by the choir and played by the hand-bell choir. The concert is free, but the church will take an offering and 100 percent of the money collected will go directly to La Luz. The first show is at 2 p.m. and the second will start at 7 p.m. St Andrew Presbyterian Church is at 16290 Arnold Dr.

There will be caroling around the Plaza tonight, Dec. 16, led by Cynthia Tarr. Interested participants should meet at the Sonoma Community Center at 7 p.m. to assemble and walk to the Plaza, where the group will serenade the Plaza Merchants. No caroling experience is necessary.

Local guitarist Eric Barnett got some excellent news this week, on his birthday no less, when he learned that his band, Points North, was signed to a record deal by Magna Carta records. The label is currently home to acts such as Steve Morse, Steve Stevens and former members of Dream Theater, so the label seems a perfect fit for the bands instrumental hard rock sound. Barnett was a session guitar player in New York and moved to Sonoma without a real music agenda. A chance ad for a couple guys to jam with on Craig’s List ad ended up being so fruitful that the band was born. The official announcements will be out soon, but look for a new album, video and maybe even a tour in 2012. Congrats Eric! The band will be sharing the stage tonight, Dec. 16, in San Juan Capistrano at the Coach House with rock guitar legend Gary Hoey for a 6 p.m. show.

Another local Sonoma musician, although currently re-located to Santa Barbara, is also making some noise in the industry. Scott Foreman, a Sonoma Valley native, lives on a lemon farm there, with all seven of the bandmates in the band Sprout, while he finishes up his degree at the University of California Santa Barbara. The band has been together since 2009, and has shared the stage with members of the Wallflowers, the Foo Fighters and even the daughter of the legendary Jerry Garcia, Annabelle Garcia, has given the band props. They recently played a show on the campus with thousands of students in attendance. They have just released their first album, and you can check it out at www.sprouttheband.bandcamp.com.

Now, back to the local stuff. The Sunday Songwriter Sessions continues on Sunday, Dec. 18, at Olive & Vine in Glen Ellen with Chris Hanlin and Hilary Wicht joining John Burdick for an afternoon of singer-songwriter enjoyment. The doors open at 4:30 p.m. and the show kicks off at 5 p.m.

HopMonk Tavern Sonoma welcomes the Courtney Janes to the inside stage tonight, Dec. 16, at 9 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 17, brings the reggae inspired sounds of Dan Martin to the Tavern, also for a 9 p.m. show.

Murphy’s Irish Pub presents Midnight Sun Massive in the Snug at 8 p.m. tonight, Dec. 16. Saturday, the pub has the Perfect Crime, also for an 8 p.m. show. Sunday, Dec. 18, it’s Sean Carscadden and Marty O’Reilly for an early show, kicking off at 6:30 p.m.

The Kathmandu Corner has no music tonight, Dec. 16, due to a private function. Saturday, Dec. 17, the venue welcomes JMB and the Big ‘O’ to the stage. The duo is usually in BackTrax and has been doing acoustic classic rock as of late. Showtime is 7:30 p.m.

The Barking Dog Roasters in Boyes Hot Springs welcomes Dale Henry Geist and the Strays, featuring Adam Traum tonight, Dec. 16, for a 5 p.m. show.

It’s barn dance time again at the Grange Hall in Boyes Hot Springs on Saturday, Dec. 17. Barn dance is similar to square or contra dancing, with the “caller” announcing all the steps of the dance as they come along. This dance will have Mike Fynan calling the steps, with Plaid Menagerie providing music. The dance kicks off at 8 p.m.

The Plaza Bistro has jazz tonight, Dec. 16, from saxophonist Mike Zilber and his trio, kicking off at 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 17, brings in the John Kalleen Group, also for a 7 p.m. show.

The Ledson Hotel welcomes back Jess Petty and Ken Chambers on Saturday, Dec. 17, for a 6:30 p.m. show.

El Verano Inn has a benefit show put on by Robert Roots and Ire Sounds International on Saturday, Dec. 17, that features DJ music and many special guests. The show kicks off at 9 p.m.

The Blue Moon Saloon has Karaoke on Saturday, Dec. 17, kicking off at 9 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 18, the weekly blues jam continues at 10 p.m.

Tudo Bem will be in Petaluma tonight, Dec. 16, at Graffitis, for an 8 p.m. show.

Stephanie Ozer will be at the Hotel Healdsburg on Saturday, Dec. 17, for a 7:30 show. Joining her on bass will be Cliff Hugo.

Hot 45s – Shows within a 45 minute drive from the Island

Norrisman – Friday, Dec. 16.
19 Broadway – Fairfax
415-459-0293

Flanelhed/ Fantasia – Friday, Dec. 16.
Peri’s – Fairfax
415-459-9910

Sol Horizon – Friday, Dec. 16.
Last Day Saloon – Santa Rosa
545-2343

Tony Bennett – Friday, Dec. 16.
Wells Fargo Center – Santa Rosa
546-3600

Narada Walden Holiday Benefit Concert – Saturday, Dec. 17.
142 Throckmorton – Mill Valley
415-383-9600

Happy Birthday Frank Sinatra – Jonathan Poretz – Sunday, Dec. 18.
142 Throckmorton – Mill Valley
415-383-9600

Benefit for Brad Dreyer at the Sonoma Veterans Hall

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