Vol. 4 July 19th, 2012
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2012 Twilight Concert Series Table of contents Pg. 6
Valley girls come to the beach HAIM keeps it an L.A. thing this week
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FYI A user guide to this year’s Twilight Concert Series
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Map Learn how to navigate the pier
Pgs. 12-13
Home on the waves A family of merchants have set up shop on the pier
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Upcoming shows Get the rundown on who will play future concerts
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Walk it out There’s plenty to do just steps from the pier HAIM
About this publication This Twilight Concert Series guide has been created as a partnership between the Santa Monica Pier Corporation and the Santa Monica Daily Press. It is intended to help concert-goers navigate the popular summer concert series.
The Santa Monica Pier Corporation is a non-profit created in 1983 by the Santa Monica City Council to preserve and enhance the pleasure pier experience for people of all ages and for future generations. For more information, visit santamonicapier.org, or call (310) 458-8901.
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HAIM
Valley girls come to the beach HAIM keeps it an L.A. thing this week On the Westside, there are few sights as beautiful as watching the sun dip below the horizon at the Santa Monica Pier. While Hollywood has its nest of seminal concert venues, when the summer months roll around, it’s the pier that draws the crowds looking for the smell of sea salt, the glitter of a California sunset and music from some of the best artists around — all for free. The Twilight Concert Series continues with HAIM — a band consisting of “three sisters and a mister” hailing from the San Fernando Valley. Recently, HAIM has piled up accolades and attention from The Guardian, Vogue and The Los Angeles Times for their unique sound, which blends elements of rock and R&B, all the while retaining an understated Southern California coolness. “HAIM’s sound, while still developing, has an energy and harmonic sense along with playful lyrics that fit in with the Twilight Concert Series’ mission of discovery,” said TCS promoter Martin Fleischmann. The sisters — Alana, Danielle and Este Haim teamed up with local L.A. drummer Dash Hutton four years ago after playing, performing and writing music for most of their lives. They grew up with the music their parents listened to — Fleetwood Mac, Prince, Joni Mitchell and Smokey Robinson — but ‘90s L.A. radio hits and girl bands like TLC and Xscape seeped into the mix as well. “There was so much music coming at us
as kids it was hard to keep track,” said Alana. They got their start on stage playing in the family band Rockinhaim with their parents at street fairs and charity events before breaking out on their own musical careers. Eventually, the girls returned home, vowing that they’d play music together until they were old and gray. Thus HAIM was born. Este plays bass, Danielle plays lead guitar and Alana handles percussion, rhythm guitar, keyboards and all three juggle the vocals, often at the same time — the gem-like title track off their EP titled “Forever” shows off the sisters’ impressive harmonizing. Though HAIM has never played at the Santa Monica Pier, the venue holds a special significance for the sisters, for whom visiting the pier was “a big treat” when they were younger. “If we did well on our report cards, or we won a soccer game, our parents would treat us to a day at the pier playing arcade games and riding the carousel,” said Danielle. Now, concert-goers will get a treat of their own when HAIM takes the stage. Even musicians as seasoned as the young members of HAIM get shaky nerves sometimes; but even that fades. “Stage fright always happens right before we go on stage, and then once we’re on, it dissipates,” said Danielle. “We each need to say each other’s nickname three times before we go on stage. Then we know we’re ready.”
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2012 Twilight Concert Series lineup • July 19: Los Angeles-based indie acts HAIM and Wildcat! Wildcat! • July 26: Organic jam rocker Jackie Greene • Aug. 2: Australian country singer-songwriter Kasey Chambers • Aug. 9: PARADE Collective — Jam sessions featuring musicians from Cirque du Soleil • Aug. 16: African rock from Mali’s Amadou & Mariam paired with Portland Scene-stealers Y La Bamba • Aug. 23: Cuban singer-songwriter Alex Cuba and the salsa dance sounds of Lucky 7 Mambo • Aug. 30: New Orleans’ Hot 8 Brass Band and Louisiana funk band The Gumbo Brothers • Sept. 6: Southern California Indie breakout act Best Coast with No opening up * All shows begin at 7 p.m.
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Twilight Concert Series user guide Here’s the skinny on this year’s shows Tickets, cost No ticket or reservation is necessary for the concerts. And all of the concerts are free. However, should you find yourself wanting to express your appreciation for the concerts you are welcome to make a tax deductible contribution to the Santa Monica Pier Restoration Corporation either by donating online at santamonicapier.org or in person at one of the concerts by visiting the pier booth.
What time do the concerts begin and end?
the environment. Hundreds of bikes are parked during each show so make sure you get a spot.
First aid/lost and found If you require first aid or assistance, please visit the pier booth/tent and we will contact the proper authority. If it is an emergency, please call 911. The lost and found will also be located at that location.
Smoking
Parking is available in the 1550 Pacific Coast Highway Lot, on a first-come, firstserved basis. There is no parking permitted on the Pier Parking Deck. There are also a number of city structures located in nearby Downtown Santa Monica. For more information, visit the City of Santa Monica’s parking site for directions and pricing at parking.smgov.net/overview.html. For directions to the Santa Monica Pier, visit santamonicapier.org/location.
Bike valet There is a free bike valet located next to the beach bike path just south of the Santa Monica Pier. It’s the reward for being kind to
Food and drinks
Pets
Alcohol consumption is not permitted in public spaces in Santa Monica. However, there are several full-service bars on the pier. Food is permitted. Go to page 12 for more entertainment and dining options on the pier.
Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash.
Have a drink
Smoking not permitted on the Santa Monica Pier.
7 p.m. — 10 p.m.
Parking
Volunteer
Weather It never gets really cold, but after the sun goes down it can sometimes get a bit chilly requiring only a sweater or light jacket. It’s always a good idea to have something to throw on just in case.
Seating Seating is not provided. You are welcome to bring beach chairs and blankets and sit on the pier deck or the beach. We ask that you bring low beach chairs. Many people do sit on the sand at the beach below the pier deck.
“Sonoma on the Deck” Wine and Beer Lounge will be located on the pier overlooking the sand, where guests can enjoy a selection of specialty wine and beer, see the concerts in a relaxed environment, all while taking in the sunset overlooking the Santa Monica Bay.“Sonoma on the Deck” will feature locally-owned, award-winning Solsticio Wines from Argentina, California labels, specialty beer and more! Beer and wine will be offered for $5 and $8 respectively. Must be 21 years of age and present an I.D. “Sonoma on the Deck” is a perfect place to enjoy a summer’s night with great wine, friends and entertainment!
The pier is always looking for a little help with the dance series. Volunteers are needed to help with raising funds, assisting the crew and providing hospitality for artists. If you are interested in assisting at the concerts, please contact us at (310) 4588901, or e-mail Anne Railsback at Anne@santamonicapier.org. Please provide the following information: • E-mail address • Phone Numbers: Cell/home • General availability • Special skills/interests • Fundraising ideas
Santa Monica Pier contact info Telephone: (310) 458-8901
Internet: santamonicapier.org
Mail: 200 Santa Monica Pier, Suite A Santa Monica, CA. 90401
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S u b a r u o f S a n t a M o n i c a 1229 Santa Monica Blvd. | Santa Monica, Ca., 90404 | (800) 809-1283 www.SubaruSantaMonica.com | Twitter: @SubaruSM | Facebook: facebook.com/SubaruSM
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Home on the waves A family of merchants have set up shop on the pier hether you’re hungry, want a souvenir, or just want a spot to watch the Pacific Ocean, the Santa Monica Pier has got you covered in ways you didn’t even know. With an eclectic mix, the pier’s merchants have something for all ages and tastes. Here’s a rundown of just some of what the pier has to offer:
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Merry Go-Round The historic Merry Go-Round is an instantly recognizable piece of Santa Monica history. A part of the pier since 1916, the historic building also houses Soda Jerks ice cream parlor and a gift shop, so you can take home more than memories. The hand-crafted horses on the Merry Go-Round date back to 1922. The building, dubbed the Looff Hippodrome, is also available for private parties. For more information, call (310) 458-8901.
Trapeze School New York There’s more to Trapeze School New York than high-flying thrills. Sign up for a yoga session or a trampoline class, hang from an aerial apparatus, or go for the gold with a bout on the flying trapeze. Whether you’re a bold beginner or a seasoned veteran, experienced teachers are at hand to help you grow as a trapeze artist. To book your private session, or plan a party, call (310) 394-5800 or visit losangeles.trapezeschool.com.
Starline Tours You’ve seen the buses all over town; why not hop aboard and take a tour of the coast down the PCH, all the while hoping to catch a glimpse of some of the properties of the SEE Merchants PAGE 13
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Merchants FROM PAGE 12 biggest names in Hollywood, as well as local landmarks like the Malibu Pier and the Getty Villa. Call ahead to make your reservation. For more information, call (800) 959-3131 or visit starlinetours.com.
Rusty’s Surf Ranch Rusty’s Surf Ranch seeks a balance between Old West and West Coast, so the menu features the Western Bacon BBQ Beach Burger next to the Vegetarian “Burger,” and the seared ahi salad can be followed by Rusty’s chicken fajitas. Stop in Mondays through Fridays between 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. for happy hour’s reduced prices on beer, wine, appetizers and specialty drinks. And remember, Rusty’s is renowned for its relaxed musical guests, so be sure to phone ahead and see if you can dine to the tunes of a featured band. While you’re there, check out Rusty’s collection of antique surfboards and paddleboards. For more information, call (310) 393-7437 or visit rustyssurfranch.com.
Santa Monica Pier Bait and Tackle Co. There’s a whole ocean out there, and people tend to forget that. Not at the Pier Bait and Tackle shop, where you can buy live and frozen bait, rent fishing poles, and get information about all the hot spots for fishing on and around the pier. Catch a souvenir in the sea, or buy one here; either way, get ready to tell some great fishing stories. For more information, call (310) 576-2014.
Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. There really are that many ways to prepare shrimp at Bubba Gump. There’s popcorn shrimp, Cajun shrimp, shrimp shack mac and cheese, a shrimp po’ boy, shrimp and veggie skewers, and of course, a traditional shrimp cocktail; in fact, the only way you won’t find shrimp at Bubba Gump is in a box of chocolates. If you’re not in the mood for the shrimp, there’s still steak, lobster and chicken dishes, all with a Southern twist. Dig in! It’s fitting that Bubba Gump is located on the pier because Forrest Gump’s character ended his cross-country run at the historic attraction in the movie “Forrest Gump.” For more information, call (310) 393-0458 or visit bubbagump.com.
Mariasol Cocina Mexicana For a taste of Olvera Street in Santa Monica, head to the very end of the pier and enter Mariasol Restaurant. Eat in comfort and atmosphere on one of the two outdoor dining areas overlooking the ocean, or head to the bar and sample Mariasol’s broad beer, tequila and mixed drink selection. With an expansive breakfast, lunch and dinner menu that has an emphasis on classic Mexican cuisine and seafood, and private dining rooms available for parties, Mariasol is perfect for casual lunches, event dining or an intimate evening. A strolling mariachi band makes the scene. Salud! For more information, call (310) 917-5050 or visit mariasol.com.
Oatman Rock Shop This cozy rock shop on the boardwalk is available for that unique novelty crafted from shells, beads or crystals. Oatman is ready to lend a hand for jewelry needs and repairs. For more information, call (310) 394-0780.
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Photo play Reggae night had them dancing on the deck Week two of the Twilight Concert Series had the feel of the islands with The Mighty Diamonds as the night’s anchor. Crowds flocked to the Santa Monica Pier to sway to their easy-going melodies despite a little rain. This week brings L.A. natives HAIM to the series with their indie brand of rock.
Snap away We’re asking concert-goers to send in their photos from each week’s show. E-mail them to daniela@smdp.com or post them on our Facebook page at facebook.com/SantaMonicaPier. If you’re on Twitter we can be found at twitter.com/SantaMonicaPier. If you’re more into hashtags, tag it #pierconcerts.
Week 1
Week 2 - The Lions
Week 1 - Donavon Frankenreiter
Week 2
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Twilight Concert Series 2012 lineup Week 4
Jackie Green Plus Rusty’s Surf Ranch Emerging Artist winner
July 26 At age 31, Jackie Greene has accomplished what many artists strive decades for. He has recorded seven albums of original work, an EP, DVD, and a recently released book of lyrics. Greene has been involved in many high-profile side projects. Included in his endeavors are performing with Levon Helm at Levon’s famous “Ramble” and featured performer at Warren Haynes annual Christmas Jam. Constantly touring, Jackie has a reputation for putting on an energetic live show and has earned the respect of critics and musicians across the country. He tours 100 to 125 dates a year, playing to a devoted and growing fan base, and has been featured at many high profile venues and festivals.
Week 5
Kasey Chambers Plus Matt Ellis and D. Henry Fenton
Aug. 2 The arrival of “Wayward Angel,” the Jackie Greene
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Amadou & Mariam
Shows FROM PAGE 15 extraordinary latest album from vocalist and songwriter Kasey Chambers, takes the acclaimed Australian artist into some of the most personal, heartfelt and emotionally resonant realms of her career. “I found myself writing songs that were closer to my roots,” Kasey explains on the origins and inspiration of “Wayward Angel.” “I was drawing directly from my own life as well as from the people around me and the characters I met on the road. The music came out pretty much the way it wanted, more organic and spontaneous than anything I’d done before.” The sharp focus and expressive intent of “Wayward Angel” does indeed connect. “I didn’t really think much about a certain style or sound,” she continues. “I tried to
just let it flow and, even though the writing came together over a long period of time, it all felt very natural. I guess there is just more me in this music.”
Week 6
PARADE Collective Showcase featuring musicians from Cirque du Soleil®
Aug. 9 The PARADE Collective will be a showcase of original music and arrangements written and performed by musicians and singers from Cirque du Soleil. The term “PARADE” is a French acronym for programme d’aide aux réalisations artistiques des employés, which literally translated means, a program to aid in the
Hot 8 Brass Band
artistic realizations of the employees. Cirque du Soleil’s Cultural Action Department presents this evening in support of its mandate to encourage and support its employees. This night, these accomplished artists, who perform live nightly in a Cirque du Soleil production, will demonstrate their high degree of creativity and passion by performing their own original music compositions and arrangements for this very special concert. Check back for updated biographical information on the musicians and singers who will be performing!
Week 7
Amadou & Mariam Plus Portland Scene-Stealers Y La Bamba
Aug. 16 To expand your horizons while remaining true to your roots is a challenge that Amadou & Mariam have risen to — and consistently met — throughout their career. Each new album has found the husbandand-wife duo from Mali boldly moving forward and breaking fresh ground, while at the same time preserving their instantly recognizable trademarks: the exquisite song craft, Amadou’s thrilling electric blues guitar and the magical interplay of their two voices, which first brought them popularity. In recent years, Amadou & Mariam have toured with Coldplay and U2 and jammed with musical heroes David Gilmour and Johnny Marr. They’ve performed at a Nobel Peace Prize concert in honor of Barack Obama, and played at the opening ceremonies of the last
two FIFA world cups. Manu Chao and Damon Albarn have lent their production skills to their records and they have worked with some of the most innovative names in contemporary rock music via Albarn’s “Africa Express” and other cross-cultural projects, such as “L’Afrik C’est Chic.”
Week 8
Alex Cuba Plus Lucky 7 Mambo
Aug. 23 Alex Cuba is a rebel. “When it comes to creativity, I need to go to places I’ve never been before,” he says. With the wanderlust of a world traveler, the Cuban-Canadian singer-songwriter explores new sonic spaces on “Ruido En El Sistema/Static in the System.” Following the compass points of rock, soul, pop, and Latin-funk on his fourth album, Cuba continues his journey as a critically acclaimed independent artist who’s charted his own destiny across the world stage while earning a growing legion of devoted listeners at each new juncture.
Week 9
Hot 8 Brass Band Plus The Gumbo Brothers
Aug. 30 New Orleans’ own Hot 8 Brass Band has SEE Shows PAGE 17
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Shows FROM PAGE 16 epitomized New Orleans street music for over a decade. The band plays the traditional Second Line parades, hosted each Sunday afternoon by Social Aid and Pleasure Clubs, infusing their performances with the funk and energy that makes New Orleans music loved around the world. The members of the Hot 8 Brass Band were born and raised in New Orleans and many began playing together in high school. What makes the Hot 8 so special are the sounds they coax from their well-loved, well-worn instruments.
Week 10
Best Coast Plus No
Sept. 6 Combine the sophisticated chill of a New York City winter with the girlish, laid back romance of California in the summertime and what to you get? The answer is Best Coast, the latest musical endeavor by perennially cool, selfdescribed “weird girl” Bethany Cosentino. Best Coast was born when Cosentino decided to come home to L.A. after a time in New York City, to get a fresh start at living in the place she knows best — California. Quickly garnering praise from critics and listeners with the single “Sun Was High (So Was I),” Cosentino was approached by UK-based label Blackest Rainbow, who released her now sold-out tape “Where the Boys Are.”
Best Coast
The Great Bike Giveaway is back! Presented by BIKE ATTACK and PURE FIX
e k i b e i x i Win a fconcert! every
Raffle tickets will be available for sale at the concert, and a drawing will take place at the end of every show. You do not need to be present to win.
BIKE ATTACK 2400 Main St. Santa Monica
310-581-8014
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Walk it out
There’s plenty to do just steps from the pier hile there’s plenty to see and do on the Santa Monica Pier itself, the surrounding area offers dozens of other enticing activities and attractions. Whether you want to take a dip in the ocean, go for a ride along the beach, grab a bite or simply soak up the sun, there’s something for everyone. And the best part about it all is that you don’t need to stray far from the boardwalk. Here are some of the most popular things to do within walking distance of the pier:
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Hot Dog on a Stick Hot Dog on a Stick is a must-try in these parts. The distinct, ketchup-colored stand — the popular chain’s original location — sits just south of the pier and has been an American icon since its opening in 1946. The stand serves French fries, cheese on a stick, dogs on a stick and its trademark freshsqueezed lemonade. There’s almost always a line, but the inexpensive prices, friendly service and taste of a local favorite make it well worth the wait. For a complete listing of all the places to eat near the pier, please visit santamonica.com/where-to-eat/eat-pier.
Muscle Beach Not to be confused with Muscle Beach Venice, the original Muscle Beach is located just south of the pier, next to the beach volleyball courts. Known as “The Birthplace of the Physical Fitness Boom of the 20th Century,” Muscle Beach became a popular workout location for famous fitness guru Jack LaLanne and celebrities such as Kirk Douglas and Mae West. While Santa Monica’s Muscle Beach no longer houses the barbell, weightlifting and bodybuilding equipment that has since been moved to its Venice counterpart, the fullyrestored and refurbished outdoor facility is home to a world-famous gymnastic training area, complete with swings, rings and ropes. Other features include chinning bars, parallel bars, a jungle gym for children and a padded gymnastics area. Whether you’re a novice or an expert, Muscle Beach provides a one-ofa-kind workout setting. Or, you can simply stand by and watch — the facility is known to attract elite athletes. Its beginnings are a bit murky but it is believed that, after the 1932 Olympics in Los Angeles, inspired by the game’s featured sport of gymnastics, local gymnasts and acrobats began to work out in the sand just south of the Santa Monica Pier. In 1933, the Long Beach Earthquake damaged Santa
Monica High School and made the school, including the gym, uninhabitable for months. This forced students to walk the four blocks to the beach and join others on the sand for their workouts. During this time the area was reportedly to have gotten its first name, “High School Beach,” for being located so close to the school. For more information about Muscle Beach, please visit www.santamonica.com.
Volleyball and basketball courts California beach volleyball began right next to the pier in the 1920s, when some of the first permanent nets in the country were erected on Santa Monica State Beach. Soon, the area was hosting California’s first-
ever beach volleyball tournaments. Today, Santa Monica’s courts remain a hotbed for beach volleyball; the California Beach Volleyball Association puts on tournaments on these courts, the same courts where Olympic competitors have trained. You can get in on the action, open to the public and free of charge, just a stone’s throw to the south of the pier. Join a pickup match or grab a seat on the bleachers to observe the competition. Additional courts run along Ocean Front Walk and the South Bay Bicycle Trail in both directions from the pier. If you’d prefer, you can also lace ‘em up for a pickup basketball game at Ocean View Park, just a short distance south of the pier. For more information about the locations of all the nearby volleyball and basketball courts, please visit www.smgov.net.
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