The final Posse on Broadway in Downtown Santa Ana was pleasing to all in attendance on Saturday, August 21, 2010. Downtown Inc’s. third block party of the summer was filled with live music, DJ’s, and great food.

Entertainment began around 7pm on the 2nd Street Promenade (between Broadway and Sycamore) in the heart of Downtown Santa Ana. At the all ages, outdoor event people enjoyed acts by Free Moral Agents (Isaiah Ikey Owens, keyboardist of The Mars Volta), Blank Blue (Elvin Estela aka Nobody), and DJ Thomas PM.

Many enjoyed delicious diners at the surrounding restaurants from Lola Gasper, Gypsy Den, Memphis Santora, and The Crosby.

At the Gypsy Den people took much pleasure in open mic night. New York’s very own, Olive Juice put on a great show. The band consisted of two girls that rocked out to fun, vibrant psychedelic beats that were quite catchy and entertaining. The girls also played a few acoustic songs that kept the night entertaining.

The party really began just after 10:00pm with DJ’s spinning at Memphis, Proof, and The Crosby. Many people walked back and forth to the different bars to check out what was going on.

Over at Memphis there was DJ sets by Mike Groove and Ras Sal along with late night snacks served until 1:00am. The restaurant & bar remained pretty packed throughout the evening.

Not too far down the street at Proof Bar, new and old fans danced to DJ sets by J-Logic, Nicky Savage, and Episode. It was definitely a party at Proof Bar for all those that came to get their groove on.

A few blocks down, The Crosby had acts by DJ Nobody, Chris Ziegler (LA Record), TVD (Stussy), and TSC-1. People had gourmet dinners and a fun time listening to great music.

The night was filled with great food and great music. With each venue packed it was an evening that was relaxing, fun, and definitely entertaining for all.

Dahga Bloom, formerly the Living Suns, made a lasting impression on everyone at the House of Blues in Anaheim last Saturday at their album release party!

With a story that is one of a kind, but an interesting one at most, Dahga Bloom is definitely a band to check out. It began with some insight from an African god named Dahga and its Bloom that influenced the band towards the post garage, psychedelic scene. Not only did the band change their name, but they also changed their sound to a more psychedelic rhythm that even former Living Suns fans will to love.

Dahga Bloom’s live show’s are  mysterious and enticing. Bryan King, Lucas Drake, Matt Mason, Zach Nelson, Manny Lopez, and Sean Yakubovsky all kept the crowd alive. With the bands psychedelic, melodic (and rather catchy) songs. That left fans dancing and singing along to the entire set. Even the dark stage and mind warping lights from the show kept the whole performance flowing; but it was by far Dahga’s musicianship that everyone seemed to enjoy.

The self-titled Vinyl and a free digital download were available for purchase at the show, with tracks Dahga Bloom and Bemsha Swing. To hear music by Dahga Bloom check out their myspace here.

Dahga Bloom are by far a group of musicians that love what they do, and it’s very evident in their live show. In addition to Dahga Bloom’s release, Orange County locals, My Pet Saddle also released its first, self-titled album. The co-release show also included The Cosmonauts, Lumerians, The Growlers, and Free the Robots. All in all the CD release show was a complete sucess for everyone!

Photos taken by Will Te Yang

Posse On Broadway: A Downtown Santa Ana Block Party Entertained All In Its Second Installment of the Summer!

On Saturday, July 17 the summers second series of Posse on Broadway: A Downtown Santa Ana Block Party was presented by Downtown Inc. of Santa Ana.

People gathered between 7-10pm on the 2nd Street Promenade (between Broadway/Sycamore) to enjoy tunes from local indie, rock band The Colourist along with Abandoned Pools, Los Angeles rockers fronted by Tommy Walter of The Eels.

Fans and friends gathered to watch local artist Adam Castilla, Kollin Johannsen, Justin Wagner, Maya Tuttle in The Colourist. The band entertained with its indie, Dutch pop rock tunes that everyone seemed to enjoy.

The perfect, breezy summer night was also entertained by LA’s rock outfit Abandoned Pools. Tommy Walter and Abandoned Pools began its career in 2001 and have been rockin’ ever since.

Shortly after a great performance by both The Colourist and Abandoned Pools, people spread out to the surrounding bars. Starting from the 2nd Street Promenade night goers bar hopped throughout the streets of Downtown Santa Ana.

Surrounding restaurants and bars were open for gourmet food, great drink specials (until last call), live music, and DJ’s. The Crosby, Proof Bar, Memphis Santora, Gypsy Den, and Lola Gaspar all hosted an entertaining summer evening in Downtown Santa Ana.

People gathered at Lola Gasper for gourmet food and drinks while others went to Gypsy Den for live music and open mic night. Memphis, Proof Bar, and The Crosby all had DJ sets by local and non-local artist.

The first installment of the 2010 Posse On Broadway gathered many music enthusiasts to Downtown Santa for live music, great food, and a fun night out on the town.

The Final Posse On Broadway of the summer series will be held on Saturday, August 21. Save the date for the final block party in the entertaining Downtown Santa Ana!

Orange County surf rock band, Hindu Pirates released it’s first full-length album Pelican Daze on Friday, July 9 at House of Blues Anaheim!

After recently graduating from high school these youngsters are not new to the Orange County indie scene. At the album release show the band shared the stage with Kiev, Pacific Hurt (formerly Aushua), The Union Line, and the Rye Douglas Band.

Hindu Pirates put on great show with the fun, surf rock tunes of its new album. Fans danced around and threw a beach ball in the air to the summer time beats of Pelican Daze.

Orange County watch out for the Hindu Pirates because give these guys a couple years and they will definitely go along way.

“I can see the band getting big when they are older, but they seem really nervous,” said Shayna Berry of Anaheim.

Whether it was the nervousness of playing House of Blues or just over excitement, Hindu Pirates is a must see. Shortly after the band played fans and friends rushed to the merchandise booth to pick up a copy of Pelican Daze.

Key songs to check out on Pelican Daze include:” Blue Eyes,” “Pretty Little Lady,” “Overtime,” “Choo Choo” and “Los Banditos.”

These surf rockers have played with many other great bands including Dahga Bloom (formerly the Living Suns), The Growlers, and Tijuana Panthers.

They have also played at great venues such as Costa Mesa’s very own Detroit Bar, The Lab, The C amp, Trash Pretty, and Yost Theater.

With a nomination for Best Surf in the 2010 Orange County Music Awards, Hindu Pirates are crashing waves with their impressive musical riffs.

Whether you are a fan of the Beach Boys or The Beattles, Hindu Pirates are a band to check out. Pelican Daze is the perfect album for a drive down the coast or a day at the beach.

All photos taken by Kyler Locke

The District at Tustin Legacy will host the Music for a Cure benefit along with a performance by special guest Sugar Ray on Sunday, July 11th.

The evening will begin with a silent auction at The Auld Dubliner Irish Pub, where attendees can socialize with supporters of Music for a Cure along with local rockers Sugar Ray. The auction will include items such as beach cruisers to various games tickets.

Once the silent auction comes to an end attendees can enjoy a special performance by Sugar Ray located at The District’s outside stage directly in front of Borders Books & Music.

Directly following the performance people can pick up their items and enjoy the after-party back at The Auld Dubliner.

According to President of Music for a Cure, Julie Karges, the organization is pleased to be holding the event at The District.

“We are honored to partner with The District for an evening of music and friends on a warm summer night and appreciate the contribution of the participating stores and restaurants in supporting our cause,” said Karges in a recent press release.

The event will support local non-profit organization, Music for a Cure with proceeds going toward music therapy services for referred patients and families with Children’s Hospital of Orange County Child Life Department.

Music for a Cure was founded by members of Orange County rock band, Sugar Ray in 2002. The organization was founded in the memory of teen Ryan Michael Bates, who lost his life to cancer at 16-years-old.

Music for a Cure and Sugar Ray bring music therapy to critically ill children by providing quality music instruments, supporting music therapists and music therapy programs at children’s hospitals.

Sugar Ray recently received this year’s Orange County Impact Award at the 2010 Orange County Music Awards. The band is known for hits such as “Fly” and “Every Morning.” Music for Cougars was the bands latest and most recent release.

The District Legacy is owned by joint venture Vestar/Kimco in which they are pleased to be holding the event.

“We are thrilled to be able to partner with Music for a Cure on this unique benefit event, bringing together Music for a Cure supporters, Sugar Ray fans and District shoppers in an intimate, unique setting,” said Kimberly Daskas, Director of Marketing & Strategic Sponsorship for Vestar in a press release.

Tickets for the Music for a Cure benefit will cost supporters $50 and only 250 tickets will be available for purchase.

Schedule of Events:

6 p.m. – Check-in/silent auction at The Auld Dubliner Irish Pub

7 p.m. – Event begins in front of The District Stage

8 p.m. – Silent auction closes

8:15 p.m. – Special performance by Sugar Ray

9 p.m. – Silent auction check-out/after-party at The Auld Dubliner Irish Pub

For more information visit here!

This Saturday, June 19 Downtown Incorporated of Downtown Santa Ana will present Posse on Broadway: A Santa Ana Block Party featuring six venues and six events. With sponsors by KCRW, LA Record, and OC Weekly, Posse on Broadway will bring live music and DJ’s to the streets of Downtown Santa Ana.

The third annual block party will showcase local and non-local talent on the 2nd Street Promenade along with live music at Proof Bar, Memphis Santora, The Crosby, Gypsy Den, and Lola Gaspar. According to Ashley Eckenweiler, each venue chose bands that would attract many listeners.

The Posse will begin Saturday at 6pm with Los Angeles folk group, The Watson Twins, local singer songwriter Barrett Johnson, and DJ Weird Beard to kick off the block party with performances on the 2nd Street Promenade (located between Broadway and Sycamore). Downtown Inc. chose great acts for everyone to enjoy a night out on the town.

“We chose the Watson Twins and Barrett Johnson because it fits the vibe of an outdoor concert,” said Eckenweiler. We wanted to attract a crowd for all ages and have bands that everyone would enjoy.”

Posse on Broadway will be an entertaining night for all as people from all over Orange County will gather in the Santa Ana Art District.

“We wanted to put something together that was like an open neighborhood event,” said Eckenweiler. “Something where venues open their doors to people on the streets… it’s neat to have an open event that people can enjoy.”

The block party has been more than successful over the past three years do to great music and consistency. According to Eckenweiler the event has always been once a month to keep everything consistent and draw in a bigger crowd.

Posse on Broadway is free to everyone and is held on the third Saturday of each month this summer. Catch the block party on July 17 with special guests Abandoned Pools (Tommy Walter of The Eels) and local group The Colourist as they perform live along with many other great acts. The final block party of the summer will be on August 21 at the same great place in Downtown Santa Ana with live music and entertainment (TBA).

This Santa Ana block party will definitely be returning next year and many years to follow. It is an exciting event and received great feedback.

“I think people are excited and we have gotten good responses through social networking and besides I think everyone loves a free show,” Eckenweiler said, “I think it will be positive.

Directly following the outdoor event, six venues will have live music, DJ’s, along with food and drink specials until last call. Each venue will have different acts for people to check out. The line-ups include:

PROOF BAR:

J. Logic

Evol

DCON

BOOTMACHINE5000

THE CROSBY:

TVD

TSC-1 & DIJON

Thomas PM

(Full Bar & Restaurant)

MEMPHIS at the SANTORA:

noMSG

Sean K

Cosmic Kids

(Full Bar & Restaurant)

GYPSY DEN:

Live performances

Food, Beer & Wine (Until Midnight)

LOLA GASPAR:

(Full Bar & Restaurant)

It’s hard not to smile while Kernkamp and company are around.  They have a relationship that is hard to compete with.  While most bands I know are comprised of friends, Billy Kernkamp’s band (including Justin Deckert, Brendan Murphy, Teddy Duran, Justin Morales and a cast of guest musicians that frequently include Justin Suitor, Dallas Kruse, Barrett Johnson, Andrew Corradini, Trisha Smith, and more!) act more like an extended family… with no shortage of love or musical talent.  His band and recording partners could possibly be the most talented group of artists in Orange County.  This makes for some extraordinary live performances; an opinion I know I don’t stand alone on since earlier this year Billy Kernkamp won for “Best Live Acoustic” act at the Orange County Music Awards. He also got to prove why his band earned such an award with a performance of the song “Black Blood” off his new record “1976.”  Speaking of new records… Oh yeah!  Kernkamp debuted his first full-length record “1976” on May 15th 2010 at Detroit Bar with a communal style round of opening acts that shared gear and at some points the stage.  If you missed this, well I would like to say it’ll happen again someday but I don’t want to lie to you… it will probably never happen again.  You missed out.  Seriously.

I got an informal chance to talk to Billy Kernkamp about “1976” while drinking some wine and listening to an oldies radio station. His usual child like excitement is always present, but when talking about his new record a very mature, serious tone swept across his face.  We talked about how every song projects a different style of music ranging between country, jazz, indie rock, and cute acoustic pop, like on “Calling It In.”  The result is an attended avoidance of making a record that pigeonholes him into one style.  He’s no one trick pony.  When listening to the entire record from start to finish (which is what I recommend you do!) these songs produce a series of vignettes dealing with love, heartbreak, self-destruction, and self-reflection.  Themes that are as timeless as they are relatable. This record reviles a side of Billy Kernkamp that is usually hard to see upon meeting him.  Kernkamp has put his trials and errors into a musical account on “1976” and the maturity it takes to be as honest as this record showcases exactly what I love about the art of music; the ability of an artist to translate his or her emotions into a moving musical experience.  This truly is a talent, and Billy Kernkamp does this with the style and the confidence of an artist who has found his voice.

“1976” has a total of 14 tracks on it, and every song stands alone, but together they make a solid album that you don’t want to stop listening to before the last song plays. Few tracks evoke such passion as the darker and haunting “I Still Love You.”  The melody and guitars linger like the ghost of an old love, a credit to guest guitarist Justin Suitor who, dare I say might be an expert at writing and playing such haunting riffs like this one. On “Calling It In” and “Tried And True” Kernkamp show’s he can write songs that sounds as personal as the darker “I Still Love You” but with a cheerful, upbeat composition even if lyrically he is tackling love and love lost. Another standout track is the infectious “Black Blood.”  It explodes with a wall of sound and doesn’t let up.  I’ve been hard pressed to find a single soul who doesn’t start singing along by the second chorus.  After tales of love and love lost Kernkamp caps off “1976” with the hopeful “Count Me In.” He may be  singing it with the inspiration of a young lady in mind, but when I hear him sing, “Count me in” I hear it as a proclamation.  It’s Billy Kernkamp’s turn, so pay close attention!  It’s the culmination of all these songs existing together on the same record that make this album something special.  Billy Kernkamp isn’t interested in the single; he is interested in this entire journey.

Artwork by Ryan Callis

The idea of something going from film to Broadway always intrigues me–they’re such different formats, that I get a bit nervous, and wonder will it really work? It’s been done the opposite way as well (see Phantom of the Opera as an example–one where I feel the movie pales in comparison to the live theatre version. But then I also think any version without Michael Crawford is always going to be lacking) but to me the fact that Broadway goes “Yeah that movie would be such a hit as a musical!” sometimes makes me wonder “why?”.

Yet, with Hairspray it DOES work.

The basic premise goes like this: It’s 1962 in Baltimore, Maryland, and Tracy Turnblad (Danielle Arci) is a chubby high school girl who never misses the The Corny Collins Show (Benjamin J. McHugh), a dance show, and when she hears they’re having open auditions to be on it, she thinks this is her chance of her dream come true. Although she’s ridiculed, especially by Amber Von Tussle (Erin Sullivan) she gets on the show, and becomes the surprise hit over night, even with her crush, Link Larkin (Ryan Rubek). It tells of not only her struggle with people judging her because of her weight, but also about the racial barriers of the time, and how Tracy wants to integrate The Corny Collins Show.

And of course, there’s music, being a musical and all.

Quite the upbeat, catchy music too! I had never listened to the Hairspray soundtrack, nor have seen all of the original movie, so I was a newcomer to it all, but it definitely sucks you in. From the opening with Tracy waking up in bed, singing her good mornings, to the almost too sweet ending (I wasn’t expecting things to get quite so neatly tied up and for everyone to become best friends, but hey, it’s a musical, so I was willing to concede their ending.)

This production was quite bouncy in their performances, capturing the energy needed to pull off this musical. Arci was cheerful but not gratingly so–her performance wasn’t as strong as it could’ve been, but Tracy’s is a character that is crowd-pleaser (everyone loves the underdog) so one was able to over look that. There’s also the always fun role of Tracy’s mom, Edna, this time played by Greg London, playing up the laughs especially when he would drop lines in the lower register, reminding us (in case you really would forget) that it’s a man playing the role. It’s another one of those concepts that makes me scratch my head, yet when actually witnessing it, see that it does play well. One of the surprisingly funny and stand out roles for me was Tracy’s friend, Penny Pingleton (Amber Rees). From what I’ve heard is that that role isn’t normally as funny, but the way Rees plays the role is delightfully awkward yet relatable, that I instantly loved the character. She was kinda my favorite–well other than the teen idol, Link Larkin–he’s not the sharpest tool in the shed, but he’s got a heart of the gold, which always wins me over. Sigh.

So if you’re looking for a night filled with swingin’ 60’s inspired music, a positive message, and energetic cast, you should see Hairspray–either one of the movies, but better yet, see it live if/when you can.

Oh, and did I mention that Matthew Morrison aka Mr. Schuester from Glee originated the Broadway role of Link Larkin? Yeah. Now you gotta see it.

Last week I went to a Beatles concert.

Ok, not really. But I did see Rain perform. And obviously I don’t have the firsthand experience of knowing how similar they are to the Beatles performing live, but I can say from what I have seen and heard of the Beatles this is the best experience for those of us who didn’t get the chance to see them. Not only do they sound very similar, the performance they give feels very authentic. Going to see Rain is different from going to other concerts because it’s more than them just playing the music–it’s a multimedia experience. There were six costume changes, showing the change was in attire, along with their music, from the matching suit and tie beginnings, to the much more hippie-esque look, and the wonderful Sgt. Pepper Lonely Hearts Band uniforms in-between.

Along with Rain being onstage and performing all of the music live, (and there were a lot of songs! I tried to keep count but lost track, but definitely close to 30, maybe more) they also have giant television screens that show important historical moments (such as, JFK’s assassination), clips from screaming girls at the Beatles’ concerts (and you thought the Jonas Brothers’ tweens were bad!) to commercials from the period (man they were wacky–the Flinstone’s smoking, and why don’t they still include a pair of stockings in with our laundry detergent?!).

It was one of the best concert experiences I’ve ever had! I even sang and danced along, and let me tell you, that NEVER happens. Personal highlights for me were “While My Guitar Gently Weeps”–man can George Bithorn (George Harrison) wail on that guitar. It was incredible. “I Am the Walrus”–normally not one of my favorite songs, but performed live it was so incredibly trippy; it made me feel like I was on psychedelic drugs (drug free is the way to be kids), and of course, “Hey Jude”–they tricked me at first! They said goodbye and I was sad they hadn’t played it since it’s my favorite Beatles’ song, but it was only to save it for their encore song, and that’s when everyone sang along. Generally the audience was more interactive in the second act,; I think we all needed that first act to loosen up and get into the groove.

All four performers, Steve Landes (John Lennon), Joey Curatolo (Paul McCartney), Ralph Castelli (Ringo Starr), and Joe Bithorn (George Harrison) were stellar and completely took on their respective roles. I had the chance to interview Ralph, and he is such a Beatles and Ringo enthusiast, which was what originally got me pumped for their performance; it’s so great to see performers in love with what they do, especially after three decades of doing it. When I spoke with him after the show to tell him how awesome it was, he was genuinely appreciative.

I have to say the worst part for me was that it ended. I wanted them to just go through and play every song in the Beatles’ repertoire. I have to admit, I’m not the biggest Beatles fan. Before you stone me, I LOVE them, but I’m mostly familiar with their more popular, well-known songs, but I’m a Believer, now. Wait. wrong band. Seriously, though, if you get a chance (again) to see them, do it. Whether you’re a die hard fan or less experienced fan, you’ll be glad you did.

The Academy Awards aired Sunday March 7th, and the red carpet was abuzz with celebrities, media, and high fashion. The most talented people in the industry gathered to pat each other on the back and say “job well done babe!”

But seriously… who cares! We had our own awards show the night earlier!!! And our red carpet was abuzz with some of Orange County’s most talented musicians, industry professional, and friends. Oh yeah, a lot of interesting fashion as well.

The OCMA really kicked off on January 5th with the start of the season’s showcase series. The first of which was at Detroit Bar featuring Kiev, Melanoid, Yellow Red Sparks, The Union Line, and Make Moon. Through out the next 2 months 7 showcases, split between the Live Band Showcases and the Live Acoustic Showcases took up everyone of my Tuesday evenings. This year was a GREAT year for the showcases. Record attendance numbers, energetic and passionate performances, and some of the best venues in Orange County playing host made these showcases a success! Creating the buzz leading up to last Saturdays Awards at The Grove of Anaheim. The bands playing the showcases were actually playing for a nomination spot in the Best Live Band, and Best live Acoustic categories at the OCMA. Of course plenty of acts didn’t make it to the finals showcases, so I just wanted to quickly choose a couple performances that I thought were worth highlighting.

Make Moon: The last band to play the first night of the OCMA Showcase series, and as usual they put on an epic performance. When watching Make Moon you can sometimes feel as if you are being transported sonically to a different place and time. It’s psychedelic fun for the whole family, if your whole family does acid.

Barrett Johnson: The first night of the Acoustic Showcase series and Barrett Johnson captured everyone’s ears and probably most of their hearts with his touching portraits of love, life, loss, and redemption. Needless to say, I cry when I listen to Barrett Johnson, but isn’t music supposed to hit you that hard? The answer is YES.

Handsome G: I’ve seen Handsome G many times before and their set at The Continental Room was the perfect start to such an amazing night. Their blend of rock, pop, country, and fun makes them stand out on a bill usually soaked in take-yourself-too-seriously-indie bands.

Kurt Hunter: The talent Kurt Hunter possesses is amazing. I am convinced that Kurt could write just about any song for any occasion or mood. His vocal range is great and his presence on stage is charming. His set at the Gypsy Den only made me want to see him on a bigger stage.

Moostache: Opening up at this years only all ages venue until the finals you could see Moostache was in control from the start. To look around and see kids getting excited for a local band with such energetic performances and humor, but also sincerity makes me excited for the future, and excited for Moostache’s future.

Parker Macy Blues: To see Parker Macy for the first time is somewhat of an experience. The soul, depth, and conviction with which Parker plays with can catch you off guard, especially since you wouldn’t expect someone so young to play so powerfully. It’s one thing to sound big when you’re in a band with all those instruments, it’s much more impressive when you can achieve the same thing when it’s just you and your guitar taking on the world alone, and Parker Macy Blues does just that.

The New Limb: There is always a lot of talk going on about The New Limb, and it’s well deserved! People love them! In the past few months I’ve started to see them more than just a really good indie band. I see them as a really good experimental band. Their sound has become this great balance between indie rock, pop, and experimental. That element I’ve often felt was there, but lately it seems they have started to embrace it a little more. You could see it in their set at The Gypsy Den on the last night of the Showcase series (not including the finals.) Hey, New Limb… EMBRACE THE EXPERIMENTAL! WE LOVE IT!

All these showcase led up to the last 2 final shows. The Live Acoustic finals included Stacy Clark, I Hate You Just Kidding, Mike Vitale, Marc B Music, and Billy Kernkamp. Kernkamp played an amazing set at the downtown Santa Ana venue, The Yost Theater. This earned him 4 days recording time at Red Bull Studios, 2,500 bucks from Fender, and a spot to play the OCMA at The Grove! The Live Band Showcase was equally exciting with performances from some of my favorite Orange County bands, including The Steelwells, BLOK, The Union Line, The Colourist, and Dusty Rhodes and The River Band! Dusty Rhodes won the title of best live band, as well as 4 days recording time at Red Bull Studios, 2,500 bucks from Fender and of course a slot to play the OCMA! Both Dusty Rhodes and Billy Kernkamp deserved their respective achievements but to me, the showcases and the awards aren’t about the winning aspect or competition. It does something much more valuable. It brings people, music, and musicians together. It provides the opportunity for everyone to get to know each other a little bit better and makes the entire music scene in Orange County a little more cohesive and accepting. I think that is the real value in something like this.

But finally I’ll get to the actual awards themselves!

The OC Music Awards in all manners and respects takes itself seriously as an awards presentation, event, show, whatever you wanna call it.  but the mood of it all is more of a party.  It’s laid back, packed full of the best entertainment in Orange County, dare I say the entire west coast, and a ridiculous amount of fun!  Live performances included BLOK, Melanoid, The Steelwells, Dusty Rhodes and The River Band, The Dirty Heads, Lit, and Billy Kernkamp!  The nights all around winners were Dusty Rhodes, taking home 3 awards Best Live, Best Rock and Best Country/Americana.  Most of the winners were artists that have not yet experienced great commercial success, but are pushing the creative envelope forward.  Bands like BLOK, winning for Best Hip Hop, The New Limb, winning for Best Indie, and The Steelwells winning for Best Song – “El Capitan” and Best New Artist!  Artists like Atreyu, Thrice, and The Adolescents took home some big awards as well.  Atreyu for Best Metal, The Adolescents for Best Punk and Thrice with the notable Best Album for “Beggars.”

In execution the OC Music Awards were spectacular.  The performances were amazing, the artists enthusiasm and sense of unity felt within The Grove was inspiring.  It was a great night for Orange County music, with much of the credit going to Luke Allen and Ashley Eckenweiler.  This little team has managed to up the ante since they started working together on the OCMA last year.

Check out the complete list of winners below and check out all the bands nominated at www.ocmusicawards.com

Best album – Beggars, Thrice

Best song – “El Capitan,” the Steelwells

Best new artist – The Steelwells

Best rock – Dusty Rhodes and the River Band

Best country/Americana – Dusty Rhodes and the River Band

Best live band – Dusty Rhodes and the River Band

Best acoustic – Billy Kernkamp

Best folk – Yellow Red Sparks

Best punk – The Adolescents

Best indie – The New Limb

Best alternative – Stereofix

Best metal – Ateryu

Best hip-hop – Blok

Best pop – Stacy Clark

Best electronic – Electric Valentine

Best blues – Roman Alexander and the Robbery

Best surf – The Growlers

Best jazz – Translucent Ham Sandwich Band

Best world – The Dirty Heads

Best Latin – Boogaloo Assassins

People’s Choice Award – Duress

Lifetime Achievement Award – Jim Washburn

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Photography by Jennifer Vincent