We’re getting close to the Christmas holiday and things are winding down, but a couple holiday-themed parties in Sebastopol should get you in the mood, and a blues band that is one of the best kept secrets in Sonoma.
Friday, Dec. 21 – Solid Air
Solid Air is probably the most unassuming act in Sonoma County. The duo has played and recorded with, and even had on their own albums, the likes of Jackson Browne, Elvin Bishop, Barry Melton and more. Their 2007 release, “Solid Air,” was nominated for a Grammy. But you’d never know it. Chris Garcia of the Press Democrat had this to say about them. “Soulfully incandescent vocals; an enormously gifted band.”
Venue: A’Roma Roasters, Santa Rosa, 707- 576-7765
Friday, Dec. 21 – The Hellhounds
The Hellhounds are one of the best kept blues band secrets in all of Sonoma County.
Primarily playing in Sonoma Valley and at regional blues festivals, they’re taking the act to West County this weekend.
All the members have similar credentials, and have clearly paid their dues, but check out band-leader Dave Chavoyas resume. Playing live since 1969, he has shared billing with the Doors, Santana, Canned Heat, Jefferson Airplane, Fleetwood Mac, John Lee Hooker, Roy Rogers and Janis Joplin and played on-stage with Etta James, Charlie Musselwhite, the late Norton Buffalo, Paul Butterfield, and Clarence ”Gatemouth” Brown. Impressive indeed.
Venue: Mavericks, Santa Rosa, 707- 544-1562
Saturday, Dec. 22 – Ugly Christmas Sweater Party
Yeah sure, it’s a cliché theme party, but who doesn’t have an ugly Christmas sweater they really can’t wear anywhere else? Oh yeah, and there’s three great acts on the bill as well, with John Courage, Timothy O’Neill, and Frankie Boots and the Country Line.
Described by Alex Devore of the Santa Fe Reporter, “Progressive Americana master John Courage, is kind of like Bob Dylan meets Tom Petty with the low and soulful timbre of Leonard Cohen.”
Venue: HopMonk Tavern, Sebastopol, 707- 829-7300
Sunday, Dec. 23 – Dr. Elmo’s Christmas Show
If you’ve ever heard the phrase “one good hit song can last you a lifetime” then one needs to look no further than Dr. Elmo.
Elmo Shropshire, also know as Dr. Elmo Who is actually a Dr.; DVM) is best-known for his recording of “Grandma Got Run Over By A Reindeer,” the Christmas classic that has sold more than 10 million copies since it was first broadcast by a San Francisco radio station in 1979.
“Grandma” has secured its place in American pop culture and made Dr. Elmo the king of comedy carols. Each December, radio stations throughout the country call Dr. Elmo for his Christmas commentary and live on-air renditions of “that Grandma song.” The good Dr. also has several more holiday themed tunes, though none with the legend of “Grandma” and is actually an accomplished bluegrass player.
Venue: HopMonk Tavern, Sebastopol, 707- 829-7300
