Don’t miss these upcoming special events. Reservations are highly recommended, as these events frequently sell out in advance. Make reservations by TELEPHONE; please call (541) 512-8864. (NO EMAIL reservations, please.)
A note about cover charges: We offer free live music several times a month. On evenings with cover charges, 100% goes to the performing musicians! Thanks for supporting the artistry of our local (and touring) musicians -- it couldn't otherwise happen in a venue of our intimate size.
On-Going MUSIC:
Friday Evenings, 8:30 p.m., no cover.
Robbie DaCosta
A guitarist and singer with a ba-zillion tunes and wide appeal, Robbie plays everything from R&B, rockabilly, ballads, Frank Sinatra -- music from the 1950s through the 1970s. Robbie usually invites one of his favorite bassists and/or other musical friends to join him.
Sunday Afternoon Jazz
Enjoy a variety of jazz styles and musicians every Sunday, 2 to 4 p.m., no cover. Click on the calendar page to see who's playing on the coming Sundays.
Dal's Piano Bar
If you like to sing, here's a casual, spontaneous way to join in. Sing a solo and/or sing along with everyone else to the accompaniment of Avalon's owner and pianist , Dal Carver, plus one our local bassists. The fun happens each Saturday afternoon, from 2 to 4 p.m. No cover.
SPECIAL EVENTS
The Fabulous Savoys
Tuesday, August 31, 7 p.m., $5 cover.
This hard-hitting New Orleans R&B group has been around since 1958 when these musicians were just kids! They play the music of James Brown, Wilson Pickett, King Curtis, Ray Charles, Jr. Walker, Buddy Guy and others. Detlef Eismann on tenor sax/vocals; Scott Rogers, guitar; Lynn Offord keyboard; John Nelson, bass; and Keith Harrison, drums.
Karen Lovely Band--Canceled
To be rescheduled! Previously set for Monday, August 30, 7 p.m., $10 cover. Watch for new date!
 Driven by Karen's powerful, expressive voice, her band features a blistering mix of contemporary and old school blues originals. Her debut record "Lucky Girl" was a #1 Pick to Click on XM Radio's BB King's Bluesville, and premiered at #13 on the Living Blues Chart.
Karen and her band consistently deliver outstanding performances that have earned them awards, critical acclaim and standing ovations at venues such as the New Daisy & Orpheum Theatres (International Blues Challenge), Safeway Waterfront Blues Festival (Portland), the Britt Festival, the Klamath Blues Festival and the Oregon Shakespeare Festival's Green Show. Some of the honors the band have recently garnered include: 2010 2nd Place Band, International Blues Challenge; 2009 Muddy Award (Best New Act); 2009 Muddy Award (Best Performance); 2009 Winner - "Journey to Memphis" Cascade Blues Association; 2009 Waterfront Prize (Best Performance). The group will open for Taj Mahal at this summer’s Britt concert.
Doors will open at 6 p.m., music at 7. This show is selling out fast, so call right away for reservations -- (541) 512-8864...NO EMAIL reservations, please. See also, www.karenlovely.com.
Coming UP in September:
The Harris/Polson Project -- Sept. 1
Beth Baker -- Sept. 2
Blind Lion (formerly known as The Relief) -- Sept. 4
Michael Mish Goes Motown -- Sept. 5
Ha'ena -- Sept. 9
Jeremy Hickman Band -- Sept. 11
LoJo Risin' -- Sept. 12
Southern Ore;gon Jazz Orchestra -- Sept. 14
SPECIAL EVENT: Andrew Oliver's Kora Band -- Sept. 15
Sophie Javna -- Sept. 16
Great Minds Unplugged -- Sept. 18
Atlantis Jazz Quintet -- Sept. 19
Alan Berman & Dianne Strong -- Sept. 22
The Havana Club -- Sept. 23
Frankie Hernandez -- Sept. 25
Group Therapy -- Sept. 28
Pat O'Scannell & Hartsmith -- Sept. 29
Smoky Red Trio -- Sept. 30
....AND Sunday Afternoon Jazz each week, plus Robbie DaCosta (Friday evenings) & Dal's Piano Bar on Saturday afternoons!
The Harris/Polson Project
Wednesday, September 1, 8 p.m., $5 cover.
Saxophonist Adam Harris teams up with pianist Thor Polson to offer an eclectic mix of jazz, with their innovative, explorational approach to the tradition. They are joined by Jeff Addicott on bass and Tom Stamper on drums. Adam’s modern style and great timing draws a crowd wherever he plays. Thor, who recently moved to the area from St. Paul, Minnesota, where he was very actively gigging, is a harmony-driven, straight ahead jazz pianist who has been influenced by Monk, Mingus, Brubeck and Evans. Jeff and Tom are both longtime members of our jazz community of musicians.
Beth Baker
Thursday, June 3, 8 p.m., $10 cover.
 Beth's powerful and wide vocal range makes it easy to see how she can fill larger venues, such as the Craterian Theater. And, she has been the opening act and sung backup on the Britt stage for and with several national acts. But, many of her fans say the intimate, supper club atmosphere of the Avalon make it their favorite place to hear her. Her warm and playful personality works magic on pop, jazz, blues, Broadway and more, and every month she brings new tunes to share with her many longtime fans. Pianist Brent Olstad and bassist Jeff Addicott are her simpatico collaborators who creatively support her talent, and shine brightly themselves. Hear hear at www.thebethbaker.com.
Blind Lion -- (formerly known as The Relief)
Saturday, September 4, 8:30 p.m., no cover.
 Here's a rock band of young men making fast upward tracks locally, including airplay on 96.9 FM, and playing at large community outdoor events – including Britt's 2010 season kick-off party in Jacksonville. This will be an acoustic version of their repertoire, which will be true to their musical influences in classic rock – Hendrix, Joplin, Dylan, The Who, Pink Floyd, Cream, The Rolling Stones, The Doors, The Beatles, et. al. Lead guitarist, Jesse Kennemer (age 18) cites Joe Satriani, Paul Gilbert, Joe Bonamassa and Derek Trucks as his guys. The rest of the band members are Spenser Doran (age 20), on drums; Shane Kell, (age 24), on bass and vocals; and Christopher Doran (age 23) on rhythm guitar and lead vocals. check them out at www.reverbnation.com/blindlion; and www.myspace.com/thereliefmusic. (Photo, left to right: Christopher Doran, Jesse Kennemer, Shane Kell, Spenser Doran)
Michael Mish Goes Motown!
Sunday, September 5, 8 p.m., $5 cover.
 The charming Michael Mish will bring you a celebration of the music of Motown! With his silky tenor voice and tasty piano style, he will be doing tunes from Smokey Robinson, Otis Redding, The Drifters, Jackie Wilson…and many others. Michael says, “I’m drawn to this very, very fun music from the 1950s and ‘60s. It was experimental, fun and never took itself too seriously.” In addition to having played in clubs all over the world, Michael has won many awards (Emmy, Parents’ Choice, iParenting) for his children’s music, TV and video. Plus, he has five adult music CDs. He sang his own songs about the environment to the UN’s General Assembly and before millions of children, nationwide. Visit www.michaelmishmusic.com.
The Bluenotes
Wednesday, September 8, 8 p.m., $8 cover.
The Bluesnotes are known for a funky jazzy, bluesy, foot-tapping style. This time out they will pay tribute to three great musicians -- Ray Charles, Jimmy Witherspoon and Louis Jordan. Band members include Detlef Eismann's inimitable blues and jazz vocal style and tenor saxophone paired with the always fabulous playing of Michael Vannice on reeds. Their stellar rhythm section includes Dal Carver, piano; Jeff Addicott, bass; and Gary "Chicken" Hirsh on drums. $8 cover.
Ha'ena
Thursday, September 9, 8 p.m., $5 cover.
 Ha'ena draws inspiration from the roots of traditional Hawaiian standards as well as contemporary artists such as Keali’i Reichel, Barefoot Natives, Te Vaka, and the internationally renowned supergroup, HAPA, for whom the group opened up for this past March in Ashland. With powerful vocal harmonies and evocative guitar melodies, the luscious multicultural sounds of Ha’ena resonate as a new generation of classically trained contemporary Hawaiian musicians. Ha’ena, in Hawaiian means “the glowing breath of life”.
Jeremy Hickman Band
Saturday, September 11, 8:30 p.m., no cover.
 Whether it’s bluegrass, country, blues, or old mountain ballads, Jeremy has a drive and passion for the authentic. His heart-felt vocals and no-nonsense flat picking guitar transports you to the hills and hollows, to the front porch rocking chairs of Old Appalachia. Joining him will be Aaron Alkire on mandolin; and Dave Hampton on bass.
Jeremy grew up in Georgia, and performed with blues-based rock 'n' roll bands throughout the '90s before returning to his musical roots in 2000. "I grew up listening to old country music, and I've always loved the high energy bluegrass stuff. When I decided to make my own way, I knew that this was the music I wanted to do and I've been at it ever since," he said. Here in the Rogue Valley he became the founding member of local favorite bluegrass band, Stoney Point, establishing himself for his accomplished flat picking. He has also performed with The Famdamily, Ridge Top, Horsefeathers, Craig Wright's Analog Kabin, The Jeremy Hickman Trio and, most recently, The Maybe Sometimes.
LoJo Risin'
Sunday, September 12, 8 p.m., $5 cover.
Singer Lori Jo Larsen has a voice and style that is tinged with shades of Eva Cassidy and Norah Jones. Musical selection for the evening will range from Ray Charles, Beatles, Eva Cassidy, Etta James, Bonnie Raitt and Bob Marley. In addition to Lori Jo on vocals and guitar, band members include Dal Carver, piano; Brent Norton, guitar; Chaz Burke, cross harp; John Cates, bass; and Tom Stamper, drums.
Southern Oregon Jazz Orchestra
Tuesday, September 14, 7 p.m., $5 cover.
 Be prepared for total sonic immersion with this 16-piece big band loaded with some great horn playing, great charts and arrangements, great improvisation and great vocals. SOJO's repertoire is a mix of swing, Latin and classic big band arrangements.
Formed in 2008, trumpeter Corren Hileman is the group’s founder and fearless bandleader. Dianne
Strong and Alan Berman are the band’s vocalists, with Alan also on piano.) Instrumental soloists include Michael Vannice (baritone sax), Frank Hunnicutt (tenor sax), Joe Chankin (alto sax), Pat DeBellis (trumpet), and Gary Nelson (trombone). The band is a mix of local musicians, former members of the Jefferson State Jazz Orchestra, and up-and-coming younger players. See www.Sojazzorchestra.com.
Andrew Oliver’s Kora Band
Wednesday, September 15, 8 p.m., $8 cover.
The Seattle-based Kora Band, led by pianist Andrew Oliver, combines elements of jazz and traditional West African music to create a unique, soul-stirring sounds featuring the kora – a traditional 21-string harp – that is blended with trumpet, piano, bass and drums. Not just an exotic touch piled on top of a jazz quartet, this world music blends the rhythmic and melodic styles of traditional kora music and forms the basis of Andrew Oliver’s compositions and arrangements of traditional repertoire.
 The band was formed after Andrew traveled to West Africa in 2007 as part of the U.S. State Department and Jazz at Lincoln Center’s “Rhythm Road: American Music Abroad” program, when he was the pianist for Devin Phillips and New Orleans Straight Ahead. While in Senegal, a kora player sat in with Andrew and New Orleans Straight Ahead at a nightclub in Dakar. The experience inspired Andrew to seek out Seattle-based kora virtuoso Kane Mathis and they began working on ways to integrate the kora into a new ensemble. They draw upon Andrew’s careful study of West African musical traditions and Kane’s extensive study with traditional musicians in the Gambia, paving the way for a true integration of the kora into ensemble.
The band’s hot-off-the-press CD, “Cascades”, covers a wide range of Mandinka pieces from across West Africa, modern repertoire from Congo and Cameroon, and new originals by Andrew and Kane, providing uplifting music that reflects the increasing globalization of music-making. The band’s previous CD, Just 4 U” was released to critical acclaim in the Northwest, with Portland’s Willamette Week calling it “a gorgeous, moving record,” and the Seattle Weekly listing it as “one of the better world-music releases to come out of the Northwest all year.” The Oregonian wrote, “[The Kora Band] blends the swing and intellect of American jazz with the divine poetry of West African music.”
Band members are Andrew Oliver, piano, electric piano, bandleader; Kane Mathis, kora, vocals, electric guitar; Chad McCullough, trumpet and flugelhorn; Brady Millard-Kish, acoustic and electric bass; Mark DiFlorio, drums and percussion. This gig will be among their performances scheduled for a West Coast tour, which will also include leading several workshops and school clinics.
Sophie Javna
Thursday, September 16, 8 p.m., $5 cover.
 Sophie is a high school senior who's been singing jazz, blues and pop from the get-go. She loves everything from Cole Porter to doo-wop and soul, and this time she’ll focus on soul music – she surprises her audiences with a voice that has Aretha Franklin qualities! Her doo-wop girls' band (with Aurelia Grierson and Jasmine Dake) will do some tunes, too. She always charms the house with her sweet personality and big, soulful voice.
Great Minds Unplugged
Saturday, September 18, 8:30 p.m., no cover.
 From mellow to up-tempo classic rock, this acoustic duo plays a cool mix of unexpected tunes by such bands as Seals & Crofts, Cat Stevens, The Who, Cake, The Police, Led Zeppelin (no, not "Stairway"), and even Aerosmith's "Sweet Emotion," and Pink Floyd's "Breathe." Matt Matthews is on 6- and 12-string guitars and vocals, and his son, Chris, is on percussion and vocals. Chris specializes in the South American hand drum called a cajon. It's sort of a mini "drum set in a box" which offers a wide range of sounds -- almost like having an entire drum kit in one instrument. Chris also plays the melodica on several tunes to add a haunting melodic contrast. The duo brings a full and diverse palette of songs. Visit: www.greatmindsunplugged.com.
Atlantis Jazz Quintet
Wednesday, September 19, 8 p.m., $7 cover.
“Transcendental Jazz” is always the Atlantis Jazz Quintet's focus. Pianist Don Monjure says, “AJQ expands the boundaries a little, and perhaps a lot at times,” with the music of McCoy Tyner, Alice Coltrane, John Coltrane, Pharoah Sanders, Wayne Shorter and Charlie Haden.” Michael Vannice on reeds; Mary Vannice on harp; Don Monjure on piano; Steve Fain on bass; Dave McClure on drums.
Alan Berman and Dianne Strong
Wednesday, September 22, 8 p.m., $5 cover.
Dianne and Alan are featured singers from Southern Oregon Jazz Orchestra (S.O.J.O.), which packs 'em in at the Avalon every "2nd Tuesday of each month." Dianne will sing her signature “knock-your-socks-off” swing, but also ballads that display her gorgeous voice, in the tradition of Jo Stafford and Anita O'Day. Alan will do some bluesy stuff, including Mose Allison. Duets will be from Lambert, Hendricks and Ross, Duke Ellington and Alan’s originals, all accompanied by Alan's piano panache.
In addition to quickly gathering devoted fans from her appearances with S.O.J.O., Dianne also explores rock, R&B, contemporary and blues as lead vocalist with the Ashland dance band called Blue Lightning, and the classic rock trio, The After Burners. Before moving to Ashland, Alan spent 20 years in Monterey, Calif., where his talents were in demand, from Monterey Peninsula hotel lounges and jazz clubs, to corporate events at some of the finest venues: the Lodge at Pebble Beach, the Inn at Spanish Bay, Highlands Inn, Quail Lodge, Cypress Point, Carmel Valley Ranch, and many others. During the two years prior to the move to Oregon, he was a featured performer at both of Clint Eastwood’s establishments, Mission Ranch and Tehama Golf Club. His performances encompassed solo, duo, trio and quartet engagements, as well as opportunities to play and sing with 3 different 16-piece Big Bands. He was featured as a lead singer with one of these bands at the renowned Monterey Jazz Festival.
The Havana Club
Thursday, September 23, 8 p.m., $10 cover.
 The rhythms and melodies of Cuba come alive with The Havana Club, a combo made up of members of the very popular local band, Salsa Brava! Covering such great artists as Tito Puente, Ray Baretto, Willy Colon and Celia Cruz, this group will have you moving in your seats. Put a little Tropicana in your life with the musical styles of Cuban son, mambo, cha-cha-cha and bolero. Vocal harmonies, enchanting flute lines, sweet saxophone solos all supported by clever conga and timbale rhythms, and syncopated keyboard and bass lines. Band includes Christina Marsilia, flute/vocals; Marshall Mueller, sax/vocals; Fred Morgan, trumpet; Anne Muth, keyboard; Jacob Ackerman, bass; Mike Fitch and Cody Bustamante both on timbale/conga.
Frankie Hernandez
Saturday, September 25 & October 9, 8:30 p.m., no cover.
Frankie will invite some of his favorite musician friends to join him for creating a fusion of pop, jazz, funk and world music that is always a crowd-pleaser. These dates will be among his last in the Valley before he moves away. He promises to come back to perform now and then, but he will be missed in the meantime.
Group Therapy -- New Band!!!
Monday, July 26, 7 p.m., $5 cover.
Now here’s a session that will make you feel good all over. Group Therapy is new trio that you’re gonna love! Each of the musicians has his/her own style, but thanks to the great chemistry between them, it all comes together for a unique melding of pop, Southern rock (with a strong Texas influence), and funky jazz. Band includes Teri Cote on drums (with her pop/Cheryl Crow-ish tinge); Rob Gunderson on guitar (with the Southern rock, rootsy, bluesy, subtle country flavor); and Thomas McKay, with a funky jazzy organ and keyboard style. All the group's music is composed by the band members, and each of them sings, too.
Pat O’Scannell & Hartsmith
Wednesday, September 29, 8 p.m., $10 cover.
"OFF THE CHARTS: Songs Your Mama Never Sang You" with singer Pat O’Scannell and Hartsmith. Come for a fun and slightly naughty evening of racy and off the wall novelty songs of the 1920’s and 30’s!
Pat is joined by the two dynamic guitarists, Bil Leonhart and Cyd Smith, to present music from another era when the novelty song was at the height of its popularity. With songs drawn from artists such as Sophie Tucker, Bessie Smith, Victoria Spivey and others, as well as their British contemporaries, you will laugh, blush, and bask in the blue notes of a quirky repertoire.
 Pat, a singer and multi-instrumentalist, was a music director and performer at Oregon Shakespeare Festival for 25 years. During her OSF tenure, she arranged, composed and directed music for numerous concerts and plays, and appeared in many live productions and recordings. Outside of Ashland, her Celtic band, Criona, toured the West Coast for 10 years. She also directed the Terra Nova Consort, the ensemble in residence at OSF for 17 years. The Consort first recorded on the Dorian label in 2001, and toured the U.S. widely as well as made appearances in Mexico, Canada and Germany. Pat's music has been heard on National Public Radio, West Coast Live and many other nationally syndicated radio programs. Her recordings have been released in 54 countries, and she has served as adjunct faculty to the SOU Music Department.
Bil plays inspired improvisations on his 7-string jazz guitar. He is known for his passion for harmonizing melodies, which has developed into an instrumental style uniquely his own. Bil plays in many Camelot Theater’s musical production, including the current show, “Rags.” Some of his favorites have been “Zorba,” and several Camelot “Spotlight” productions. He has played in many local venues and for the Oregon Shakespeare Festival’s Green Shows. Lately he and guitarist/vocalist Cyd Smith have been performing as a guitar/vocal duo. Cyd aptly embraces playing many musical genres in many different settings.
Smoky Red Trio
Thursday, September 30, 8 p.m., $3 cover.
 Vocalist Marcella Ruikis and pianist/vocalist Jim Quinby. plus bassist Jeff Addicott, cover everything from Thelonious Monk, Nina Simone, Peggy Lee, Diana Krall to Tom Waits, John Cleary and Tuck and Patti. From upbeat jazz tunes, bluesy toe-tappers to hauntingly beautiful ballads that will catch your breath. Jim plays with exuberance and warmth, Marcella immerses herself within each song with sultry soulfulness. With Jeff on bass, they'll really get into a solid groove.
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Entertainment
