Name: Moe's Alley
Address: 1535 Commercial Way, Santa Cruz, CA, 95065
Telephone: 831-479-1854
Price range: $

Wednesday, April 27th

Natural Vibrations

Hawaii's Premeir Reggae Band Returns - Evening With - 2 Sets!. 9:00 PM, Doors Open 8:00 PM Show. Moe's presents Natural Vibrations for a night of live Reggae music from Hawaii. Nattty Vibes will be performing 2 sets of live Reggae music, no opener, so come early and don't miss a beat. Natural Vibrations, aka Natural Vibes or Natty Vibes, is Hawai'i's most popular and acclaimed band from the Windward side of O'ahu. They started out as a group of friends who loved playing music and went from playing backyard parties to headlining some of Hawai'is biggest shows and venues. Since 1996 they've recorded 6 full length albums featuring a sound with strong roots in reggae, rock and pop. Their unique musical blend combined with a party and dance energy has allowed them share the stage with artists like Prince, 311, Jimmy Cliff, Ziggy Marley, UB40, Jack Johnson, Pepper and SOJA, to name a few. The same sound and vibe that has earned them the respect of some of reggae's biggest names has also brought them multiple Best Reggae Album and People's Choice awards at the Hawaii Music Awards, as well as, Hawai'i's prestigious Na Hoku Hanohano Awards. "Our biggest accomplishment is to after 15 years still be playing and producing music that is loved and anticipated by our fans." Thats the driving force behind their current goal to relocate to the west coast, tour nationally and record new music. With the help of Polynesian Underground, Natural Vibrations will embark on new territory and new listeners. Look for their newest single, "Make You Stay" released November 2012, and catch them at a show in your neighborhood.

Advance $12.00

Day of show $15.00

Thursday, April 28th

Niki J Crawford + The Afrofunk Experience

8:30 PM, Doors Open 8:00 PM. Santa Cruz CD Release Celebration For Niki's New Album "The Genesis Block". Moe's Alley presents the Niki J. Crawford band featuring Orgóne's former lead vocalist & percussionist for a very special debut performance & CD release celebration for "The Genesis Block". Bay Area funk powerhouse Afrofunk Experience makes this a double bill a dance party not to be missed! Come early and don't miss a beat of this one. "Niki J. Crawford's first EP titled the Genesis Block is carried by soaring and multi-layered vocals, her most fully realized work to date that is finely attuned and anchored by the type of rhythmic instrumentation that allows her range and depth to be heard in its finest hour. The songs are rooted in unabashed free expression with profoundly selfless lyrical compositions usually reserved for the most mature of songwriters. Each track teeters on themes of romance and conceit while remaining heartfully optimistic throughout the final verse". iki J Crawford and her band bring the heat with a high energy soul get down. After a short break following her latest tour, where she performed more than 200 shows worldwide, Niki is back with a new band, new songs and a new show. Niki is an American Recording Artist/Songwriter from the small country town of Springhill, Louisiana with a powerful, unforgettable and melodic voice. The singer/song writer crafts poignant lyrics and creates music with a Soul-Funk-R&B sound that you can feel. Niki has been singing since she was 6-years-old. From her roots as the lead soloist in her hometown church choir to the recently completed touring, her talent has continued to evolve as one of the strongest voices in music. Niki and the band have shared the stage and have played with Carlos Santana, Snoop Dogg, Al Green, Sharon Jones & the Dap Kings, Aaron Neville, Macy Grey, Booker T Jones, The Roots, Galactic and Orgone just to name a few of the legendary performers who have sought out her talent. She has performed on various late-night TV shows such as Jay Leno, David Letterman, Conan O'Brien, and Saturday Night Live and lit up festival stages across the world like Bonnaroo, Wakarusa, Montreal Jazz, Summer Camp, Bear Creek, All Good, High Sierra and Jam Cruise. A multi-talented artist, Niki J. Crawford not only sings but is also a talented and growing actress. She just finished shooting an upcoming film "Revival" based on the gospel of John and "Mr. Sophistication," in which she plays herself-a popstar alongside Tatum O' Neal, Harry Lenix and former Lakers star, Rick Fox. Niki can also be seen in Taylor Hackford's "Love Ranch," which was released worldwide in 2010. Other credits include co-starring alongside Ginnifer Goodwin and Kevin Connolly in the hit comedy, "He's Just Not That Into You"; "American Dreamz", as well as roles in "The Tenants," "Seeing Other People," "Gridiron Gang," "Miss March", and "Killer Diller," which she received a "Two Thumbs Up" for her performance and was told "She is The REAL American Idol" from Ebert & Roper. Niki has also guest-starred on television shows "Ally McBeal," "Wanted," and was a "Scarlett" series regular; she has guested on hit productions "Rent" (Shubert Theater), and "Behind Closed Doors" (Tyler Perry Prod./T.D Jakes Prod.); and is also currently featured singing in the national Subway Campaign. Niki continues to write and perform leading with her trademark aura of unconditional love and sensuality that fuels a vocal passion with the effortless ease of a veteran performer. Niki has said her goal is to make feel-good music and great films with an energy that inspires and alleviates negativity. The Genesis Block out now. Get Digital Here: https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/the-genesis-block-ep/id958765159. Get CD Here: https://squareup.com/market/niki-j-crawford/the-genesis-block-ep. The Afrofunk Experience is an ambrosial mix of musical interpretations influenced by the African diaspora, created in a collective and organic manner. With Sila Mutungi they comprised the award-winning group Sila and the Afrofunk Experience until 2010, providing songs and grooves that earned them the title "The Bay Area's Dance Kings", as well as the NAACP Image Award's Outstanding World Music Album for "Black President" and the SF Weekly Music Award's Best International Act. Guitarist/Singer David James (Spearhead, The Coup, Beth Custer) brings his sinewy style to counter the funk-metal stylings of lead guitarist Ken House (H.P. Riot). The precise funk-rock drumming of Paul Oliphant (Afrolicious, Will Magid Trio) with Wendell Rand's (Afrolicious, Tracorum, Youssoupha Sidibe) muscular dance grooves keep the band tight, while saxophonist David Boyce (Broun Fellinis, The Supplicants) and trombonist Alan Williams (Manicato, Katdelic) wail, their horns producing a sound that encompasses outward-bound jazz, classic reggae, afrobeat and R&B. Percussionist B. Lee thickens and adds flavor to the mix, and on top of all this, recent addition Sandy House adds her sultry voice and powerful stage presence. Note: There once was a man named Mike Pitre ... he was the coolest cat, with the craziest degree of swing, in his trumpet playing, in his singing and in his living. Mike passed away just weeks after he recorded his parts for the AFE album. He would cuss the band out if they were to quit. So they roll on. And they miss him.

Advance $9.00

Day of show $12.00

Friday, April 29th

Diego's Umbrella + Zach Deputy

Double Bill Dance Party. 9:00 PM, Doors Open 8:00 PM show. Moe's Alley presents a very special double bill with Diego's Umbrella & Zach Deputy. About Diego's Umbrella: There are two kinds of people in this world: those who love Diego's Umbrella and those who soon will. Celebrated as San Francisco's Ambassadors of Gypsy Rock, these world renowned entertainers have created an irresistible cocktail that is entirely their own. On a planet bombarded with every possible kind of entertainment, a Diego's Umbrella show is a singular, ecstatic experience; one concert is all it takes to turn you into a believer. Night after night they effortlessly blend marching drums, harmonized shredding and gang choruses with showmanship that has all the fire and unpredictability of youth, coupled with the refinement of years of experience on the road. The group's uncanny gift for pleasing crowds, from standard clubs to huge festivals such as High Sierra and Outside Lands, has earned them a breathless and ever-expanding following across the United States and Europe, and that connection with other cultures continues to inform their aesthetic. In their music you will hear klezmer, flamenco and punk rock all blended to pop perfection. About Zach Deputy: On his new release Another Day (Eusonia Records, 2011), Zach Deputy demonstrates his extraordinary ability to perform and record in multiple contexts and conveys the sensibilities of a mature singer/songwriter. Another Day offers another look at Zach Deputy and seeks to help him cross over into other audiences. Rich with ballads and mid-tempo songs, the music on this recording is best described as soulful rhythm and blues, with flavors of Al Green, Taj Mahal and Stevie Wonder emerging in the swells, changes and modulations of the music, in the voice and even in the lyrical content. The record will appeal to fans of contemporary artists like Jack Johnson and Amos Lee, but the origins of the style and feel remain classic. Recorded over 5 days in August 2010 at Mission Sound Recording in Brooklyn, NY, Another Day is the truest example of pure musicianship. As heard in this recording, Grammy winning producer Scott Jacoby and his team of musicians demonstrate that large budget recordings and "over-production" are simply not necessary. Drummer Graham Hawthorne (Aretha Franklin, Paul Simon, David Byrne), bassist Al Carty (Lou Reed, Alicia Keys, Gavin DeGraw) and pianist / organist Will Buthod (Jay-Z, Swizz Beatz, The Harlem Gospel Choir) and Zach Deputy met for the first time on day one of recording and– despite their diverse backgrounds– instantly clicked with each other and created the perfect landscape to support Zach's songs. In contrast to the music and feel of Another Day, Zach Deputy has made his mark thus far as a touring powerhouse. As a boy, the music of his Puerto Rican, Cruzan and Irish heritage was cooked up in the South Carolina heat. The Calypso rhythms and folk songs of St. Croix competed with the R&B / soul of pioneers like James Brown and Ray Charles for space on the family stereo. As Deputy honed his craft, a unique hybrid of these influences emerged, ultimately creating the signature Zach Deputy sound. To bring this sound to the stage, the big, impossibly upbeat South Carolinian with the infectious smile puts on a solo show– enhanced by looping technology– that is essentially a one man dance party offering up what he calls "Island-infused, Drum 'n' Bass, Gospel-Ninja-Soul" to the enthusiastic crowds of dancers who flock to clubs from coast-to-coast. It is these late night dance parties— more than 250 per year– that have made Zach Deputy one of the hottest up-and-coming performers on the camping festival circuit and "jam band" scene. For Zach, most days begin in a hotel room and end a couple of hours after walking off stage. The constant touring and the compelling live show may be the key to Zach's success on the road, but it is an unlikely inspiration for Another Day, as there is little similarity between what fans have come to expect from Zach and what is offered up in this new record. Thus, Another Day is an appropriately titled album, and it is truly an album in the classic sense— a collection of songs that come from the same time and place, inspired by the same muse. Reflective and introspective, it provides a glimpse at the soul of an artist and the depth of a songwriter. Full of hope and anticipation of the promise of another day, a new day, it is a pivotal point in the career of a touring musician. Whereas it is a departure for Zach Deputy, it is one that he feels confident his fans can relate to, but it isn't the end in itself. Deputy's multi-faceted diamond gets one side polished in this offering, and it is a side that will shine brightly for a new audience.

Advance $12.00

Day of show $15.00

Saturday, April 30th

Dead Winter Carpenters, The Sam Chase & Rin Tin Tiger

Double Album Release Part! 8:30pm doors, 8:00pm show. Americana & Roots Music. Moe's Alley presents DEAD WINTER CARPENTERS & THE SAM CHASE. Both acts will be celebrating the release of brand new albums! Come early and don't miss breakout artist RIN TIN TIGER opening the show at 9pm. About Dead Winter Carpenters: "According to local lore, tucked deep in the snow blanketed Sierra Nevada mountains, rests a cabin secluded from the masses. After days of searching the shores of Lake Tahoe, I find a path of footsteps in the snow that winds through the moss laden trees of the forest. After hours trudging through knee-deep snow, I find myself gazing at cabin where smoke is billowing from the chimney. To learn of what is inside, I crawl up to the window. As I wipe away the snow for a closer look, I find the crew consumed by their cause of crafting melodies and songs that warms the entire cabin. Here lies the heart and soul of Dead Winter Carpenters…" In a time when music has been transformed and genre lines are left behind like the seasons, Dead Winter Carpenters are producing an ever-evolving style of music. The time spent, both in the studio in the woods and criss-crossing the American countryside, has provided Dead Winter Carpenters with a ground-breaking sound that blends Americana roots-rock with a tinge of straightforward 'tell-it-like-it-is' Alt. Country that is as hard-hitting as it is whimsical. While the roadsigns and towns pass by the windows on down the highway of tour, DWC are writing original material based on their life experiences. "Dirt Nap", the band's latest EP, is a musical journey which speaks magnitudes to these experiences. The uplifting "Bootleg Jack" melds together banjo, handclaps, harmonica and fiddle into a musical amassment of down-home experiences of whiskey riddled fun. The stormy, somber, and longing tone of "West Shore Town" speaks to the darker side of existence. Conversely, the upbeat rambling sounds of the the telecaster and the lyrics of "Triumph" speak of man living with hard times who sees the proverbial light at the end of the tunnel. One can't help but feel the change of the alchemy brewing within Dead Winter Carpenters. Foot-stomping original tunes blended with the band's onstage presence highlighted by the vocal melodies and five part harmonies, ferocious fluidity of the fiddle, deep pounding thump and thud of the upright bass, country ramblings of the telecaster and acoustic guitars, and the driving drums all meld together to create an experience that is sure leave you wanting more…The five piece outfit is: Jenni Charles -fiddler/vocalist; Dave Lockhart -upright bassist/vocalist; Jesse Dunn -rhythm guitarist/vocalist; Bryan Daines -lead guitarist/vocalist; Brian Huston -drummer/vocalist. About the Sam Chase: The Sam Chase has a voice like a Nun on the lam with a mouthful cigarettes and curse words in a lonely bar, drunkenly dancing next to a broken jukebox. His songs are scribbled, not written, on lipstick and sweat stained motel bedsheets because he likes the way the ink bleeds. His guitar runs on diesel and leaks like the morning after too much Whiskey. His is a show you'll probably want to tattoo on your body so everyone will know that you knew him before he was cool. Hailing from the hills of San Francisco, California, Sam and his band whom he lovingly refers to as The Untraditional, take to stages all over the country with a virulent and frenetic passion which many history buffs might liken to the Norse warriors known as The Berserkers, who were known to have fought their battles with an uncontrollable, trance-like fury. Norse literature notes that they would work themselves into a rage before battle, consuming drugged foods, and dressed in nothing but their enemies blood. The Sam Chase and The Untraditional do maintain that spirit, but leave the drugged foods and enemies blood up to the discretion of the crowd. In 2012, came the release of his long awaited first studio album, THE SAM CHASE WILL LEAD US TO VICTORY. It took the group all across these United States and back to their home in the Bay Area. The cry came for more, so the band dove head first into writing and preparing a new album. In late May of 2013 THE SAM CHASE WILL NEVER DIE was released. Many children have been conceived to this album since it's release and all of the children who are now born are showing higher than normal levels of intelligence and immunity to most diseases. As of the early hours of 2016, Sam and the band have gone back into the studio and laid down 13 brand new tracks. The new album is slated to drop on April 29th, 2016. Many sages and religious fanatics believe that it will bring about the end of days. Stay safe. These are troubled and unpredictable times.

Advance $9.00

Day of show $12.00

Sunday, May 1st

Peter Harper + Asher

Peter Harper Returns To Santa Cruz Bringing His 3 Piece Band Bringing Folk Music Into The 21st Century 8:00pm doors, 7:30pm show. Moe's Alley welcomes back Folk favorite Peter Harper. He blew us away last year with his solo performance opening up for Donavon Frankenreiter..this time he is bringing his 3 piece band. Santa Cruz favorite Asher opens the show starting at 8pm so come early and don't miss a beat.. Peter Harper - Live At Mystic Hot Springs. ABOUT PETER HARPER: Peter Harper comes from a long legacy of music. 58 years ago his grandparents, Dorothy and Charles Chase, opened the now world renowned, Claremont Folk Music Center. Going to the FMC every day after school "I [Peter] literally grew up in the music store watching the greats... And not so greats... pass through to play music every day. David Lindley used to come in all the time to just mess with stuff and jam with my grandma, Taj Mahal would always stop in to talk to my grandparents when he came through town and as I got older, Tom Waits, Keb Mo and a slew of other folks would all come trough to check the place out." Peter's grandmother could play anything with strings and his mom followed suit. Ellen Harper, talented guitar and banjo player, gave rise three artistic sons, the now famous musician, Ben Harper. The world famous Author Joel Harper. And last but certainly not least the multi talented artist Peter. "Couldn't one of you guys have been a doctor or a lawyer?" Peter often teases his older brothers. It's all in good fun though, in reality, Peter wouldn't have it any other way. "My family is like a group of artistic super heroes. We use our powers for the betterment of society and the individuals around us. There are a lot of people spreading hate, especially these days. Using art to spread love and counteract that message is a must." Peter's New album, Break the Cycle, will be released Mid July and his self-titled debut album can be found on itunes, or on his website:

Advance $7.00

Day of show $10.00

Tuesday, May 3rd

Sweetwater String Band + One Grass, Two Grass, Joe Kaplow

California Bluegrass & String Band Triple Bill 8:00pm doors, 8:30pm show, Moe's Alley presents a bluegrass & americana triple header with Sweetwater String Band, One Grass, Two Grass & Joe Kaplow. Sweetwater String Band is a cello driven "soulgrass" band founded in the Eastern Sierra of California in 2008. Their music blends Chatham County Line style lyricism with Yonder Mountain String Band style energy, wrapping audiences in an enthusiastic yet introspective atmosphere. Since 2012 the band has completed several successful tours of the West Coast, Desert Southwest, and Colorado, including recent festival appearances at RapidGrass, YarmonyGrass, Lost Sierra Hoedown, Durango Bluegrass Meltdown, Millpond Music Festival and Humboldt Hills Hoedown, as well as upcoming appearances at the Parkfield Bluegrass Festival, Huck Finn Jubilee, and Kate Wolf Festivals. Their music often deals with serious issues such as mountaintop removal coal mining, workers rights, and the attempt to find middle ground in todays divided political arena. This seriousness is balanced by ghost stories, drinking songs, heart ache, and tales from the long, lonesome road. The band has released two full length albums of all original material (Debut, 2011 and River of Rhymes, 2014) featuring the songwriting of Scott Roberts (mandolin/vocals) and David Huebner (cello/vocals), with Jeff Meadway on guitar and Patrick Ferguson on bass. Gideon Thomas of No Depression describes River of Rhymes as: "a work of both intimacy and wide-scale, cinematic vistas…instantly likeable, a truly worthy listen. The songs are great, their playing immaculate, and their approach and subject matters fascinating." One Grass Two Grass delivers high energy, hard driving, fun loving, old-timey, new-timey, good-timey, California string band music. Through richly lyrical, naturally inspired originals cushioned by a bed of old mountain tunes and the occasional stomping classic rock number, their unique sound is expressed as a mesh of yesterdays established protocols with the need to bring strings to the times in their own exciting way. Standing on the shoulders of the contemporary movement powered by The Old Crow Medicine Show, The Devil Makes Three, and The HackensawBoys, One Grass Two Grass forge their own style of this folk meets old-time meets rock meets bluegrass craze. There have been many highlights in the upward trajectory that has been the bands recent past including numerous festival appearances such as at The Father's Day Bluegrass Festival in Grass Valley, CA, The Northwest String Summits Band Competition near Portland, OR, Earle Fest in Santa Rosa, CA, and The Hoes Down Festival at Full Belly Farm, Guinda, CA and The Old Grove Festival in Guerneville, CA. They have had the pleasure of accompanying many great artists on stage such as Larry Keel of Keller and the Keels and Natural Bridges, Vince Herman of Leftover Salmon, James Nash, and John Cragie and have opened for contemporary string bands such as Fruition, Hot Buttered Rum, The Lil Smokies, Front Country, Mipso, Whiskey Shivers and Reverend Peyton and the Big Damn Band. One Grass Two Grass got their start in late 2012 in the San Francisco Bay Area. In 2014 Jacob Groopman of the nationally award winning group Front Country heard promise in One Grass Two Grass's sound and energy and offered to step out of his typical performance role to help them produce a debut album that captured that drive. Released in February 2015 this collaboration proved to produce a rich self titled album which catapulted the group full speed into an exciting and eventful journey that is ever growing and evolving to this day. With tours to Southern California, Oregon, and Colorado scheduled to the summer of 2016, which include stops such as Yonder Mountain String Band's North West String Summit and The Telluride Bluegrass Festival's Band Competition, the excitement is certainly not slowing down. One Grass Two Grass is sure to have you swaying with your lover, stomping with your brother, smiling with your mother, and having just a plain old good time with one another.

Advance $7.00

Day of show $10.00

Thursday, May 5th

Dumpstaphunk

New Orleans Funk Supergroup. 8:00pm doors, 9:00pm show. Moe's Alley welcomes back one of the funkiest bands to ever arise from New Orleans' DUMPSTAPHUNK for a very special Cinco De Dumpsta Party on May 5th. Dumpstaphunk stands out among New Orleans' best as one of the funkiest bands to ever arise from the Crescent City. Born on the Jazz & Heritage Festival stage, and descended from Neville family bloodlines, these soldiers of funk ignite a deep, gritty groove that dares listeners not to move. Their performances combine ingenious musicianship and complex funk and jazz arrangements with soulful melodies that are simple enough for anyone to enjoy. In Big Easy tradition, dueling baselines from Tony Hall and Nick Daniels III set off one of the dirtiest rhythm sections on the planet, while Ivan Neville lights up the Hammond B3 keys and cousin Ian Neville's funky guitar riffs send the groove into overdrive. The band recently welcomed their newest member, Alvin Ford Jr. to the quintet, a New Orleans born and raised powerhouse drummer. Dumpstaphunk tosses around lead vocals and four-part harmonies the way Sly & the Family Stone did, but with three studio albums under their belt, Dumpstaphunk stands on the merit of their own material. Songs like "Dancin' To The Truth" off their latest record, Dirty Word (Red Hot Records), offer an escape into the funky sublime, sharing the true spirit of New Orleans with every note. PRESS QUOTES: Dumpstaphunk has thrived in the New Orleans funk scene alongside some of the best in the business." - NPR World Cafe; I don't expect to hear anything funkier this year." - New York Times; Dumpstaphunk's 'If I'm In Luck' brings the bass." - USA Today; Dumpstaphunk's self-produced sonic approach feels live, nasty, and greasy." - iTunes; Dirty Word offers a remarkably fresh update on a sometimes neglected genre." - Mix Magazine; Dumpstaphunk make a convincing case that party music can rattle the bones and brighten the mind." - Relix Magazine; Dumpstaphunk have steadily expanded their sound to achieve global funk success. Dirty Word is the latest from the band and shows off the professional funkateers in winning fashion." - Glide Magazine; [Dumpstaphunk] has a few simple missions on its second full-length CD: To make a modern album steeped in the funk tradition... [and] to change the world. Offbeat Magazine; While live Dumpstaphunk is all about groove, this disc gives equal weight to Ivan Neville's songwriting." - Offbeat Magazine; When this jackpot of a funk record from Dumpstaphunk came across the desk, well…it warranted a mention." - WNYC, New Sounds Blog.

Advance $25.00

Day of show $30.00

Friday, May 6th

Karl Denson's Tiny Universe

Friday Night Funk & Soul Dance Party! 9:00 PM, Doors Open 8:00 PM, Fresh off The Rolling Stones Zip Code Tour Karl Denson's Tiny Universe is returning to Santa Cruz for a Friday night get down not to be missed in anticipation of his upcoming 2016 release. Special guest DJ Wyze 1 supports. Karl and his band The Tiny Universe, embark on a Nationwide run that will give new and old fans the chance to experience what is highly regarded as one of the best live bands on the planet. The current touring lineup is comprised of Richmond guitarist DJ Williams, Soulive drummer Alan Evans, Greyboy Allstars bassist Chris Stillwell, Crush Effects David Veith on the keys, and Seattle's Chris Littlefield. Karl Denson's most recent recorded work can be heard on the Tiny Universe LP, New Ammo. The collection showcases the grittier side of the band's musical oeuvre, including stand outs like "My Baby" featuring singer Nicki Bluhm, "Everybody Knows That" and his raucous rendition of The White Stripes "Seven Nation Army." The album has received wide acclaim: All Music declared the effort, "easily their most musically adventurist album yet," while DownBeat praised it as "music for both the party and for fans of instrumental prowess." Approaching two decades strong, Karl Denson's Tiny Universe is a prolific touring juggernaut that regularly performs over 150 shows annually. They're currently working on material for a new studio album to be released later this year. Denson himself is an acclaimed and highly in-demand saxophonist and songwriter who first came to national attention as a member of Lenny Kravitz's Let Love Rule-era group and is currently a member of The Rolling Stones touring band.

Advance $25.00

Day of show $30.00

Saturday, May 7th

Edge Of The West + Lacy J. Dalton

Album Release Celebration Featuring Special Guests. 8:30 PM, Doors, 8:00 PM. Honky Tonk/Americana/Country/Psychedelic Rock & Jam Band. Moe's Alley presents a very special album release party with EDGE OF THE WEST, Lacy J. Dalton & Special guests. May 7th marks the official release date for Edge Of The West's debut studio album. Putting this show over the top will be an opening set by local legend LACY J. DALTON, followed by a barn burning performance by EDGE OF THE WEST featuring a series of guests from bandleader Jim Lewin's past & present. ABOUT EDGE OF THE WEST: Edge of the West is a rock n' roots honky tonk jam band. We do our catchy Americana originals, some hippie classics, outlaw country, epic jams and a mine full of eclectic covers. Our members are accomplished pros with killer resumes, and when playing together in this configuration we do have a lot of fun, as does the audience. Just try and sit still. The room is pulsating. Everybody's showing up and getting on a roll...Across the canyon there are drums in the distance. Notes From the underground drift like smoke to a strange, familiar place where old friends meet for the very first time. -The Edge of the West. ABOUT LACY J. DALTON: Lacy J. Dalton (born Jill Lynne Byrem) on October 13, 1946 in Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania, is an American country singer and songwriter. Starting her singing career in 1978 as Jill Croston, with Harbor Records, she was signed by Columbia Records in 1980 and quickly rose to national prominence with such songs as "16th Avenue" which rose to #7 on the BillBoard Hot Country Singles & Tracks Chart Known for her gritty, powerful vocals, which People Magazine likened to a country equivalent of Bonnie Raitt, Lacy had a number of other hits through the 1980s, 1990s, and 2000s, including "Takin' It Easy", "Crazy Blue Eyes", "Black Coffee", "Slip Away", and "Next To Me".

Advance $10.00

Day of show $13.00

Sunday, May 8th

Henry Chadwick & Battlesnake + Jesse Daniel & The Slow Learners

Henry (Of The Coffis Brothers) Takes Center Stage For An Album Release Celebration. 8:00 PM, Doors, 7:30 PM. Moe's Alley presents Henry Chadwick (Of The Coffis Brothers) & Battlesnake + Jesse Daniel & The Slow Learners for a CD release celebration. Henry Chadwick is a singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and producer/engineer. His New self-produced EP, Guest At Home, showcases Henry's skills, as he wrote, engineered and played most of the instruments on it. Henry draws influences as much from music of the past (The Beatles, The kinks, T-Rex, Nirvana, David Bowie etc.,) as from as from current artists who keep pushing forward stylistically and sonically. Henry makes catchy, thoughtful and usually energetic music with a unique perspective, edge and charm. Henry has been playing in bands and learning how to record music since he was a youngster. He plays drums in the touring roots-rock band, The Coffis Brothers and fronts the band My Stupid Brother. Henry's live band consists of Aidan Collins on the Bass, Kyle Poppen on the guitar, Jesse Wilkinson on drums, and Henry himself on guitar and vocals. The band plays live under the name 'Henry Chadwick and Battlesnake.'

Advance $7.00

Day of show $10.00

Thursday, May 12th

Roddy Radiation (Lead Guitarist Of The Specials) + Tingly (Mike Mattingly of Skankin' Pickle)

THE SPECIALS Lead Guitarist Brings His Live Band 9:00 PM, Doors Open 8:00 PM show, Moe's Alley presents The Specials lead guitarist RODDY RADIATION with his live band THE SKABILLY REBELS. Come early and don't miss Ska favorites TINGLY featuring Mike Mattingly of Skankin' Pickle fame. Roddy Radiation Interview Roddy Radiation "Lost Weekend" ABOUT RODDY After decades of treating audiences to his own Ska-Rockabilly brand of "Radiation" therapy, Roddy Byers is stepping away from the side of the stage as the Specials' lead guitarist and into the center spotlight as the frontman/guitarist of his newest and best musical endeavor, the SKABILLY REBELS! Roddy and his Skabilly Rebels are the next phase of an audio formula Byers has been working to perfect since the day he stepped into the recording studio with the Specials back in the 80s – a fusion of the driving rhythm of Ska and the gritty, hard edge of Rockabilly, also known as "Skabilly." With the Skabilly Rebel's debut album, BLUES ATTACK!, Byers and his boys Sam Smith (rhythm guitar), Matt Hart (drums), Mac (bass), and Jay Jones (keyboards) bring this sound screaming into beautiful reality, spanning a variety of sonic flavors from the cajun-edged "Black Zodiac," to the breezy-ska of "Desire," to the roots-rock flow of "Judgement Day," to the blues anthem "Another Rusty Nail." The unique vibe behind each Byers-penned original tune is tied together by that Skabilly heart and soul that flows through Byers' vagabond voice and shredding guitar licks. Each song's rocksteady beat, vocal twang, and rocking riff takes the listener on a thrilling adventure of teenage angst, crazy weekends, long-lost love, cheating hearts, sudden death, and a deep longing for that which a simple department store window is holding back. The subject matter in the 16 tracks is diverse enough to leave any and all listeners able to find a piece of themselves in Byers' lyrics. Listen to BLUES ATTACK!, and prepare to move your body to the next, best wave of Ska's evolution…embrace the sound of REBELLION today! ABOUT TINGLY Tingly is Mike Mattingly's musical project! He is a singer, songwriter, bass playing fanatic, guitar playing hack, piano playing wanna be and a lover of any musical instrument he can get his grubby, meaty paws on. Tingly is each and every day no matter the depth of the catastrophe or the breadth of the ocean of despair that surrounds us. Tingly was put on this planet to bring joy and a bounce to all those who desire the freedom of the soul to explode right out of the heart through the chest and into the universe. Tingly is the will to walk in lead shoes across deserts so vast that it is impossible to imagine the oasis that will be discovered through this journey! Tingly is here, now and forever! Welcome aboard! "Free Mangos! Only 25 Cents!" is the most recent album by tingly. It was recorded throughout 2013 and finished early in 2014. This album is the culmination of mattingly as a song writer as he pulls from his vast vault of musical and emotional experiences. Also you can check out Tingly's first album "Beautiful View" Which is a largely acoustic album with an appearance of horns on two of the 11 songs. It has the feel of a back porch barbecue by the bay. You will also find the single "Shake It loose" as well as the video made in 2011. It is a song about living through hard times but refusing to let it keep you down. Mike Mattingly began his career in his garage in Campbell CA where he and Mike Park crafted the sound that would become Skankin' Pickle. With the addition of lynette knackstedt and chuck phelps the pickle was off and skankin'. Latter Lars nylander and jerry lundquist rounded out the band as they set out on tour of all forty eight states in the continental us, hawai'i, canada and Mexico. Mike Mattingly was one of two main songwriters and singers recording on legendary third wave ska albums; Skafunkrastapunk and skankin' pickle fever. During this time he also had a stint touring as bass player for second wave ska band; bad manners. After exiting skankin' pickle mattingly formed neosoreskin recording three album in 5 years from 1994 to 2000. This experimental band was an exercise in controlled chaos. Its big band arrangements featured a four-six piece horn section and a three piece rhythm section which would transition through musical styles such as funk, ska, klezmer, jazz, punk, noise, classical, reggae and hip-hop in just a few bars. Neosoreskin took this skavantegaurd sound to the West coast, sharing the stage with the likes of No Doubt, foo fighters, fishbone and moby. during this time mattingly could be found on stage playing trombone and percussion with hip-hop band Willies Conception. The three albums for Neosoreskin are "say hello to Neo", "toiletry" and "Vicegription".

Advance $8.00

Day of show $12.00

Friday, May 13th

The Record Company

Rock/Roots Trio: Chris Vos (guitar, lead vocals, harmonica), Alex Stiff (bass, guitar, vocals) and Marc Cazorla (drums, piano, vocals). 9:00 PM, Doors Open 8:00 PM. Touring In Support Of Their New Album GIVE IT BACK Out Now On Concord Music Group. L.A.-based buzz band The Record Company has signed with Concord Music Group, which is releasing its debut album Give It Back to You on February 12, 2016. The rock/roots trio of Chris Vos (guitar, lead vocals, harmonica), Alex Stiff (bass, guitar, vocals) and Marc Cazorla (drums, piano, vocals) has already been hailed by LA Weekly for "making bluesy music that would sound more at home in a sweaty, backwoods Mississippi juke joint," while Time Out Los Angeles has described their sound as "reminiscent of some of the best acts of the '50s and '60s-like if John Lee Hooker and the Stooges had a well-behaved love child." The comparisons are apt. "We have been influenced by early electric blues, so some of that influence certainly shows," acknowledges Vos. "But we're just as influenced by bands like the Stones and The Stooges as we are by blues legends like Hooker, Muddy Waters and Jimmy Reed." Wherever it comes from, Vos, Stiff and Cazorla have clearly come up with a fresh take on classic rock 'n' roll that has proven appeal: Their music, well ahead of a record deal, has been featured in over 30 commercial, film, and television placements including the theatrical trailer for Last Vegas and ads for Coors Light, Subaru, Showtime's Shameless, ABC's Nashville, CBS's CSI: Crime Scene Investigation and a current ad for Miller Lite. Meanwhile, The Record Company has developed a reputation as a live act worthy of sharing the stage with such top attractions as B.B. King, Grace Potter, Trombone Shorty, Buddy Guy, Charles Bradley, Robert Randolph, The Wood Brothers, Social Distortion, and Blackberry Smoke-with whom they toured the U.K. and Europe. On the strength of two EPs (Superdead, released in 2012, and Feels So Good, in 2013), the band received strong college and Triple A radio format airplay and performed at the Montreal Jazz Festival, Milwaukee's Summerfest, NAPA Valley's Bottlerock, Ottawa Folkfest, the Quebec City International Summer Festival and the Harvest Jazz and Blues Festival. "Our sound has a lot of early rock n' roll but with a greater emphasis on the drums and bass," says Vos. "We aim to make the speakers move with our recordings." The group writes, rehearses, records and mixes all of its music in the same living room in the Los Angeles neighborhood of Los Feliz where it originated. "It all comes from our desire to write the best songs we can–and the most honest music that we can," says Vos. "We try to mix in different elements to keep it fresh. For example, our song 'On the Move' has just harmonica, bass, and drums with no guitar. 'Don't Let Me Get Lonely' has all acoustic instruments–including acoustic bass–to capture more of the rockabilly vibe that we dig, that is in so much of the stuff we listen to." The themes and stories in the lyrics of the songs are all draw from the threesome's collective experiences. "They are just stories we wanted to tell," Vos continues. "They can be simple or complex, depending on what the music is calling for. Music and melody usually precede the lyric for us." He notes, too, that each of The Record Company members play several instruments both live and on record. "We work hard to incorporate them into the music as creatively as possible," he says. "So besides the typical guitar, bass and drums, we also mix in harmonica, dobro slide, lap slide, pedal steel, piano, etc. It's about making the right choices for the songs and keeping things as engaging as possible throughout the album–without compromising the integrity of the song." "Off the Ground" is the first single from Give It Back to You. "It was one of the last songs we wrote for it," continues Vos. "The opening riff is Alex playing slide on a bass with a little delay on it, then Marc comes in with the drums, and I come in with my old junky lap steel guitar that I love so much. I was trying to capture a Hound Dog Taylor-esque sound on the slide guitar. We wanted to give the bass a fresh approach so Alex started playing the riff with a slide and we loved the way it sounded." The song is already making noise, thanks to a music video and its usage in the Miller Lite commercial. "It's cool to have a song in a commercial for my dad's favorite beer!" says Vos, who like Miller beer, hails from Wisconsin. "I grew up on a working dairy farm in Wisconsin that my family still owns and runs. It is something I am very proud of: I grew up milking cows, driving tractors, and bailing hay. Then I moved out to L.A. in 2010 to chase the dream of writing and playing music full-time." Not knowing anyone in his new hometown, Vos started jamming around. "I was jamming with some good people but I wanted a full-time thing, and ended up getting in touch with Alex. We hit it off as friends and he invited me to his pad to listen to some old vinyl records and hang out. It was there that I met Marc." They immediately recognized that they shared the same music tastes, and enjoyed jamming together. One night they listened to the classic John Lee Hooker-Canned Heat album Hooker N' Heat, and were galvanized. "Later that week I came back to Alex's with an amp," Vos recalls. "The three of us set up some microphones in the living room and recorded ourselves running through some songs. We were listening to the playback and decided right then and there that we had to be a band." After recording a few tunes, "we hunted down every email address we could and started mailing stuff out to everybody basically saying, 'Hey! We just formed this band in our living room. Listen to this for five seconds.' Out of those first recordings we got booked into the Montreal Jazz Festival and Harvest Festival in Canada, and got on our first tours." They settled on the band's name after discovering that The Record Company was somehow available. "We all agreed right away that it had to be the name," says Vos. "Given the way we started, where we are from, and what we love to play, it makes perfect sense." But making records notwithstanding, it's playing live that sets this Record Company apart. "I always think of a performance as one less time on stage–not one more," Vos concludes. "Nobody can say how many shows you get to play in your life. So we try to play our guts out, leave it all on the table, and have fun doing it."

Advance $9.00

Day of show $12.00

Saturday, May 14th

7 Come 11

CD Release Party 8:00 PM, Doors Open 9:00 PM, Moe's Alley welcomes funk favorites 7 COME 11 for a special cd release celebration. 7 Come 11 is a Hammond Organ driven outfit that brings grooves reminiscent of the work of legends such as the funky METERS and the JB's while plunging into inspired jams and raging homages to powerhouse rock acts of days past like Zeppelin, while incorporating a modern approach to the funk and jam scene of the the new millenium.

Advance $7.00

Day of show $10.00

Sunday, May 15th

Curtis Salgado

Afternoon Blues Series - CD Release Celebration for "The Beautiful Lowdown". 4:00 PM, Doors, 3:00 PM show. Moe's Alley welcomes back Blues Music Award Winner CURTIS SALGADO for a special CD release celebration for "The Beautiful Lowdown" as part of our Afternoon Blues series. With a career spanning forty years, award-winning soul, blues and R&B vocalist/harmonicist/songwriter Curtis Salgado is a one-of-a-kind talent whose music is as compelling as his story. From co-fronting The Robert Cray Band to leading his own band (and recording nine solo albums) to helping transform John Belushi into "Joliet" Jake Blues to touring the country with Steve Miller and Santana, he is a true musical giant. NPR calls him "a blues icon" with a "huge voice." Salgado earned a reputation for high-intensity performances and a repertoire inspired by his encyclopedic knowledge of soul, blues and R&B music. He won the 2010 Blues Music Award (BMA) for Soul Blues Artist Of The Year and went on to win the award again in 2012 and 2013. In 2013 he also won the coveted BMA for B.B. King Entertainer Of The Year—the highest honor the blues world has to offer—and took the statue for Soul Blues Album Of The Year for his Alligator debut, Soul Shot. Blues Revue says Salgado's music is "triumphant, joyful, blues-soaked R&B" and declared him to be "one of the most soulful, honest singers ever." The Beautiful Lowdown, Salgado's new Alligator album, is the singer's most fearless and adventurous release to date. For the first time in his career, he wrote or co-wrote virtually the entire album himself. He co-produced it along with Marlon McClain and Tony Braunagel and contributed to the horn arrangements and background vocal parts. "My heart and soul are in this," he says proudly. "I worked my tail off and let the songs lead the way." As for the title, Salgado explains, "During a recent show, I turned to my guitarist and said, 'Play something lowdown. But make it beautiful.' Then I thought, 'Keep that.'" The Beautiful Lowdown is a major step forward for Salgado. "I wanted to write memorable songs with strong melodies that stick to you, and that's what's here." He arrived at the studio with 17 originals and whittled the list down to 11, adding Johnny "Guitar" Watson's Hook Me Up to close the set. Each track—from the Van Morrison-esque Nothing In Particular to the funk grooves of My Girlfriend to the driving Hard To Feel The Same About Love to the reggae-tinged Simple Enough—is delivered with the vocal power and passion of a musical master. Living Blues says, "Salgado navigates dynamic soul, swaying balladry, and funky grooves with equal confidence. He is a formidable performer." Born February 4, 1954 in Everett, Washington, Salgado grew up in Eugene, Oregon. His home was always filled with music. His parents' collection included everything from Count Basie to Fats Waller, and his older brother and sister turned him on to the soul and blues of Wilson Pickett and Muddy Waters. He attended a Count Basie performance when he was 13 and decided then and there that music was his calling. Curtis began devouring the blues of Little Walter and Paul Butterfield, fell in love with the harmonica and taught himself to play. By his early 20s, Salgado was already making a name for himself in Eugene's bar scene with his band The Nighthawks, and later as co-leader of The Robert Cray Band. Salgado quickly developed into a player and singer of remarkable depth, with vocal and musical influences including Otis Redding, O.V. Wright, Johnnie Taylor, Muddy Waters, Little Walter, Sonny Boy Williamson I and II, Lightnin' Hopkins, Howlin' Wolf, Otis Spann and Magic Sam. In 1977, comedian/actor John Belushi was in Eugene filming Animal House. During downtime from production, Belushi caught a typically ferocious Salgado performance and introduced himself during a break. Once Salgado started sharing some of his blues knowledge, a fast friendship grew. Salgado spent hours playing old records for Belushi, teaching him about blues and R&B. Belushi soaked up the music like a sponge and used his new awareness to portray "Joliet" Jake Blues in The Blues Brothers, first as a skit on Saturday Night Live and then a best-selling record album (which was dedicated to Curtis) and finally as a major motion picture (Cab Calloway's character was named Curtis as an homage). Once Salgado joined forces with his friend Robert Cray and began playing together as The Robert Cray Band, Salgado found himself sharing stages with many of his heroes, including Muddy Waters, Bobby Bland, Albert Collins and Bonnie Raitt. After Salgado and Cray parted ways in 1982, Curtis went on to front Roomful Of Blues, singing and touring with them from 1984 through 1986. Back home in Oregon, he formed a new band, Curtis Salgado & The Stilettos, and was once again tearing it up on the club scene, where he honed his band to a razor's edge before releasing his first solo album in 1991. His friend and fan Steve Miller invited Curtis and his band to open for him on a summer shed tour in 1992. Two years later, Salgado spent the summer on the road singing with Santana. Salgado signed with Shanachie Records in 1999, putting out four critically acclaimed albums. He successfully battled back from liver cancer in 2006 and lung cancer in 2008 and 2012, reemerging stronger and more determined to share his music with the world. Salgado joined Alligator Records in 2012, releasing the award-winning, critically acclaimed Soul Shot. The Los Angeles Times said Salgado is "keeping the classic flame of soul music alive." The strength of the record led to Salgado touring far and wide, with gigs in Manilla, Guam, Brazil, Saipan and Panama. He has performed at major festivals including Portland's Waterfront Blues Festival, The San Francisco Blues Festival, The Chicago Blues Festival, Memphis' Beale Street Music Festival, The Tampa Bay Blues Festival, Denver's Mile High Blues Festival, Toronto's Waterfront Blues Festival, Thailand's Phuket International Blues Festival and Poland's Blues Alive Festival. On The Beautiful Lowdown, the deeply-rooted singer effortlessly blends classic soul sounds and funk grooves with up-to-the-minute lyrics. His full-force vocals—intense and uninhibited—bring an urgency and edge to his timeless original songs. AllMusic says his music is filled with "greasy grooves and rollicking burners boasting all the confidence and swagger the lyrics convey. Upbeat, animated performances leave you wanting more." Blues Revue, describing Salgado's performance style, declares, "He starts at excellent before segueing into goose bumps, ecstasy, and finally nirvana." And that is the undisputed, beautiful, lowdown truth.

Advance $12.00

Day of Show $15.00

Matt Andersen & the Bona Fide + Lee Harvey Osmond

Multi Award Winning New Brunswick Songrwiter Debuts Santa Cruz For A CD Release Celebration. 9:00 PM, Doors Open 8:30 PM. Moe's Alley presents the Santa Cruz debut of Matt Andersen & The Bona Fide celebrating the release of his new album "Honest Man". This will be a full band show, with special guest Lee Harvey Osmond supporting. MATT ANDERSEN HONEST MAN, MULTI AWARD WINNING NEW BRUNSWICK SONGWRITER TO RELEASE COMMISSIONER GORDON PRODUCED SEVENTH STUDIO ALBUM ON FEBRUARY 26 VIA TRUE NORTH RECORDS. Matt Andersen has been enthralling audiences with his one-of-a-kind performance in North America, Europe and Australia for years. Earlier this fall, the award winning artist once again decamped from his New Brunswick home – this time to record his upcoming album. Produced in New York with Commissioner Gordon (Joss Stone, Amy Winehouse, KRSOne), Honest Man follows up the JUNO Award nominated Weightless†and sees the songwriter pushing himself into new territory. Blessed with a rich gospel soul voice and armed with a new set of songs, Matt Andersen found a perfect partner in crime with Commissioner Gordon. "Gordon has worked with so many different people, like Santana and Quincy Jones, on so many historic albums," says Andersen. "He has such a great approach and was able to tie-in so many new ideas to what I've done in the past without losing touch with my sound." From writing around drum beats to bringing in a cast of players including Andy Bassford (Toots and the Maytals, Burning Spear, Natalie Merchant), Benji Bouton (Ibibio Sound Machine), Josh David Barret (The Wailers, Lauryn Hill), and Lenny Underwood (Mary J. Blige, Amy Winehouse), Honest Man expands on what we already know and love from Andersen and brings it to a new level. "Gordon brought a drum beat to one of our first sessions that I loved, and I wrote 'Let's Get Back' around it. When we tracked, we did it the same way as the others myself on acoustic guitar, Benji on electric, Josh on bass. Using beats is something I never thought I would go for. But it was a lot of fun and I'm really excited with what we recorded. If I was left up to my own devices it would have been a very different record." The ten songs that make up Honest Man explore both the political and the personal. The title track, co-written with Chris Kirby, was inspired by a US political cartoon while "Let's Get Back", co-penned with Andy Stochansky, has Andersen thinking about how his country as a nation has changed, but not for the better. "Who Are You Listening To?" was hatched with Ryan Hupman during a pre-election social media flood and emerges as rally call for people to make up their own minds and not be swung by the 'information' we're being fed. On "All The Way", written with Gordie Sampson, Andersen takes a more personal approach as he sings about the decision to fully commit to a relationship, while on the alluring piano ballad "I'm Giving In", composed with Andy Stochansky and Jamie Hartman, he muses about the moments leading up to that commitment. "The song 'I'm Giving In' was the final one that I needed to lay down vocals for," recalls Andersen. "It was my last night in New York and the studio we were using was underneath a ballroom where Alicia Keys was rehearsing for a performance the next night. We managed to get the piano recorded in between the breaks of the rehearsal but had to skip the vocals. We went back to Gordon's studio to listen back to the weeks' work and enjoy a scotch when we decided to take a stab at recording the vocals. This was at 1am. It was a special way to wrap up the sessions with Gordon." On one of two songs created with Donovan Woods called "One Good Song" Andersen sings about exactly that. He explains, "All songwriters desire to have that one good song that just gets everybody. Not necessarily a hit, but a song that when it's heard you can't help but listen. This song is about the journey we all take to get there." There is no need at all for Matt Andersen to worry about one good song, Honest†Man†is a watershed album full of transcendent musical moments that should elevate the songwriter from internationally acclaimed to world renowned. About Matt Andersen: With over 5 million views on YouTube, independent sales over 30,000 albums, a 2013 European Blues Award, and winning Best Solo Performer at the Memphis Blues Challenge, it appears that the entire world is now discovering Matt Andersen. A powerhouse performer with a giant soul filled voice and commanding stage presence, Matt has built a formidable following the old fashioned way – touring worldwide and letting the converted audiences and Andersen devotees spread his reputation through word of mouth. In addition to headlining major festivals, clubs and theatres throughout North America, Europe and Australia, he has shared the stage and toured with Bo Diddley, Buddy Guy, Greg Allman, Tedeschi Trucks Band, Randy Bachman, Little Feat, Jonny Lang, Serena Ryder, and more. Andersen has won the 2013 Euro Blues Award for Best Solo /Acoustic Act, three Maple Blues Awards in 2012, and nabbed him 2010 International Blues Challenge in Memphis. Since the release of Weightless in early 2014, Andersen has received a JUNO nomination for Roots & Traditional Album of the Year, a CIMA Road Gold award, and two consecutive Maple Blues Awards for Male Vocalist of the Year.

Advance $9.00

Day of Show $12.00

Wednesday, May 18th

Mipso + Steep Ravine

Americana/Bluegrass/Acoustic Roots Music. 8:30 PM, Doors, 8:00 PM. Moe's Alley presents an evening of live Americana, Bluegrass & Acoustic Roots Music with MIPSO from North Carolina along with Steep Ravine from the Bay Area. ABOUT MIPS0 - Americana's jailbreak from sleepy town squares and the scratchier bands of the AM dial has been a welcome development in American music. And the renegade traditionalists of Mipso ... Jacob Sharp on mandolin, Joseph Terrell on guitar, Libby Rodenbough on fiddle, and Wood Robinson on double bass ... are doing their part to take three-part harmony and Appalachian influences into new territory. The three North Carolina songwriters have wandered off the path blazed by Earl Scruggs and Doc Watson to find a new clearing for their southern string band sound. In the process, they've kicked up a fuss. IndyWeek heralded the band's role in the reemergence of southern roots music in North Carolina, crediting Mipso with "expanding the vocabulary of common touchstones- for bluegrass. WUNC hosted live previews of the band's second album, Long, Long Gone. And all over the southeast, Mipso has been busy playing raucously fun live shows that veer from up-tempo original melodies to madcap acoustic covers of Michael Jackson. The group puts all the energy of a college club show into a form of music that predates clubs. And most colleges. For their October 2013 release, Dark Holler Pop, the group enlisted local hero Andrew Marlin of Mandolin Orange as producer and proceeded to assemble a team of other North Carolina mainstays in the studio: members of Chatham County Line, Town Mountain, and Megafaun add a dash of virtuosity to a rich and well-crafted release. Mipso will join other North Carolina luminaries on stage to support the album, such as four-time Grammy winner David Holt, as well as the recently Grammy-honored Steep Canyon Rangers. While making waves across their home state, it's clear Mipso will be keeping good company. The idea for Mipso arose out of freshman year daydreaming at UNC Chapel Hill. After the usual band-making delays, Mipso quickly went from idle picking to a campus staple. By junior year, UNC's Chancellor was a regular guest on keyboard. By graduation, Mipso sold out Carrboro's legendary Cat's Cradle ... four times. Now, after a whirlwind tour through Japan's bustling bluegrass scene and a host of sold-out shows across North Carolina, Jacob, Joseph, Libby, and Wood are making the happy adjustment from local favorites to global emissaries for a decidedly new sound. As for the name of their particular sound, well, they call it Dark Holler Pop. ABOUT STEEP RAVINE - Steep Ravine's soulful sound takes roots music in compelling new directions. Fusing elements of "folk-rock", "bluegrass", and "jazz", the band continues to enthrall audiences with their uniquely Californian sound. Songwriter Simon Linsteadt (guitar, lead vocals) and Jan Purat (violin, vocals) began playing music together in high school in Northern California, later moving on to study music at UC Santa Cruz and the California Jazz Conservatory. They fortuitously met bassist Alex Bice (bass, vocals) through jam sessions in Santa Cruz. Percussionist Jeff Wilson, a close musical compadre, is the band's most recent addition. Steep Ravine has toured extensively throughout the country and has released two full-length records of all original material. Following their humble beginnings playing at a Hawaiian barbecue spot in Santa Cruz and busking in the BART Metro Stations of San Francisco, Steep Ravine quickly gained a following in the Bay Area and throughout the west. After the release of their debut record TRAMPIN' ON, the band went on several national tours, including notable performances at High Sierra Music Festival, Four Corners Folk Festival, Outside Lands, and Strawberry Music Festival. In 2015, Steep Ravine released their second record THE PEDESTRIAN, diving deeper into new musical terrain.

Advance $7.00

Day of show $10.00

Thursday, May 19th

King Jammy

Jamaica's Dub Legend Makes A Very Rare Appearance In Santa Cruz 9:00 PM, Doors, 8:00 PM, Moe's Alley welcomes KING JAMMY live & direct from Kingston Jamaica. The 69 year old dub veteran has never played Moe's and as far as we know never played Santa Cruz! He will be bringing rare exclusive music from his 5 decade career and mixing/dubbing live on stage at Moe's for one of the hottest Reggae parties of the year. DJ Spleece supports.

Advance $15.00

Day of show $18.00

Friday, May 20th

New Riders Of The Purple Sage

Psychedelic Rock Pioneers Return 8:00 PM, Doors Open 7:30 PM, Presented By (folkYEAH!). (folkYEAH!) presents psychedelic rock & roll pioneers THE NEW RIDERS OF THE PURPLE SAGE for a Friday night party not to be missed. The New Riders of the Purple Sage are back on the road with a revived and inspired lineup, bringing the songs of John Dawson back to the ears of adoring crowds nationwide as well as taking those songs to places they've never been before musically. Led by David Nelson and Buddy Cage, the current touring lineup includes Michael Falzarano (Hot Tuna) on guitar and vocals, Ronnie Penque on bass and vocals and Johnny Markowski (Stir Fried) on drums and vocals. John Dawson remains retired in Mexico and has given the guys his blessing and sends his best to all his fans out there and thanks you all for continuing to enjoy his songs. Band History: In the summer of 1969, John Dawson was looking to showcase his songs while Jerry Garcia was looking to practice his brand new pedal steel guitar. The two played in coffeehouses and small clubs initially, and the music they made became the nucleus for a band-the New Riders of the Purple Sage. That same year, David Nelson, expert in both country and rock guitar, joined the group on electric lead guitar. Filling out the rhythm section in those early days were Grateful Dead drummer Mickey Hart and engineer Bob Matthews on bass, who was later replaced by Phil Lesh. In 1970, Dave Torbert took over on bass and the New Riders played every chance they got. Soon enough, smoky clubs all over the San Francisco bay area were filling up with whooping, foot-stomping crowds as their music got tighter and more dynamic. They began to tour extensively with the Dead, and in December of 1970, Spencer Dryden, who had previously showed his impeccable drumming style with the Jefferson Airplane, had stepped in on drums. One of the many gigs with the Dead included the Trans-Canadian Festival Express with Janis Joplin, The Band, and other American and Canadian artists like Ian and Sylvia, who had with them a brilliant, innovative pedal steel player named Buddy Cage. When Garcia's busy schedule made it increasingly difficult for him to play with the New Riders, the talented Cage was the perfect choice to fill the pedal steel spot. He moved from Toronto where he had been working in Anne Murray's band, to California in the fall of 1971 to join the New Riders. With the addition of Cage, the New Riders emerged as a fully independent unit. An excitingly creative band with a special brand of music-sweet country harmonies mixed with pulsing rock rhythms. The New Riders were signed to Columbia Records in 1971 by Clive Davis and their eponymous first album, New Riders of the Purple Sage, was released in September of that year to widespread acclaim. In December, 1971 they played a live radio broadcast with the Dead over WNEW-FM in New York to an audience of millions. In 1972 the pattern of their success continued to grow, with their first European tour followed in June by the release of their second album, Powerglide. They toured the United States extensively in response to increasing demand, and in November, 1972 released their third album Gypsy Cowboy. These first three New Riders albums were all produced by Stephen Barncard, who also worked with Crosby, Stills and Nash and co-produced the Dead's American Beauty. In May of 1973, the New Riders appeared on ABC-TV's "In Concert" program to a nationwide audience. Working hard on the road for much of the year, including gigs with the Dead at Kezar Stadium in San Francisco and R.F.K. Stadium in Washington, DC, they took a brief time out to go into the Record Plant in Sausalito with producer Norbert Putnam. The result was The Adventures of Panama Red, released in September of 1973 and with Peter Rowan's title track, this became an FM radio staple and the first gold record for the band. In November they embarked on an east coast tour that included them setting the box office record at New York City's Academy of Music. This tour was recorded for the group's first live album, Home, Home on the Road, which was produced by Jerry Garcia. Early 1974 found bassist Dave Torbert wanting to pursue a more rock and roll direction as he left the New Riders to form Kingfish with old friends Matthew Kelly and Bob Weir. Skip Battin, formerly with the Byrds, joined the band on bass as they kept to their solid touring schedule which had become one of the band's trademarks. In August, 1974, the New Riders gave a free thank you concert in Central Park on a Tuesday afternoon to 50,000 New York fans. Their sixth album, entitled Brujo, was released in October, 1974 and found their recorded sound getting crisper with delicate harmonies and more original songs. 1974 Publicity photo (l-r): Spencer Dryden, John Dawson, David Nelson, Skip Battin, Buddy Cage. Searching for expanded musical horizons, the New Riders hooked up with producer Bob Johnston, known for his work with Bob Dylan, in 1975. Letting Johnston take them down uncharted terrain, the resulting Oh, What A Mighty Time found the band hooking up with Sly Stone and a bevy of female background singers. Mighty Time also features Jerry Garcia's electric guitar leads on "Take A Letter Maria." Just about this time, the music business was entering another era and the New Riders ended their relationship with Columbia Records. The subsequent release of the Best of the New Riders of the Purple Sage, with its infamous cover, fulfilled their obligation to Columbia and the band then signed with MCA Records in 1976. New Riders, the bands first release for MCA, was comprised of mostly cover material and was the last album to feature Skip Battin, who had left to join his cohorts in the Flying Burrito Brothers. Once again, mining from the Byrds/Roger McGuinn stable of bass players, Stephen Love, also an alum of Rick Nelson's Stone Canyon Band, joined the band and inserted a renewed energy to the live shows. Love's songwriting talents contributed heavily to Who Are Those Guys?, which was released in the Spring of 1977. At this point, Spencer Dryden traded in his drum sticks to begin managing the band. Patrick Shanahan, another Stone Canyon Band alumnus, fit right in on drums and is featured on Marin County Line, the late 1977 release that ended the bands association with MCA. Many more changes would engulf the New Riders personnel from this point on. Buddy Cage and Stephen Love departed in 1978 to join the short-lived San Francisco All Stars with John Cippolina. Skip Battin and his Burrito Brother pals Gib Gilbeau and Sneaky Pete Kleinow were then brought in for what would seem like a dynamic mix. But after a brief tour of the Northeast, they had exited as quickly as they entered. Bobby Black from Commander Cody's Lost Planet Airmen took over on pedal steel and another Rick Nelson alum, Allen Kemp, took over on bass. Cage would re-join the band in 1980 and the band would make their last major label release for A&M with Feelin' Alright. The years of grinding it out on the road and the lack of major label attention led to Nelson and Cage taking a break in 1982. Dawson continued to carry the New Riders torch all through the 1980s and early 1990s with help from Rusty Gauthier, Gary Vogensen, Bill Laymon, and select other Bay Area musicians. Where are they now? John Dawson has retired to the hills of Mexico, David Nelson is creating incredible music with his David Nelson Band and Buddy Cage is working with an array of acts including the Brooklyn Cowboys. These three main components of the New Riders' sound reunited in October, 2001 for band archivist Rob Bleetstein's 40th Birthday Bash at the Sweetwater in Mill Valley, California. They performed two highly charged sets, including classic versions of "Garden of Eden" and "Portland Woman." The New Riders of the Purple Sage received a Lifetime Achievement Award from High Times magazine at their Doobie Awards in September, 2002 and performed a brief set (which included "Loneseome L.A. Cowboy" and "Panama Red" with Peter Rowan) at the festivities at B.B. King's Blues Club in New York City.

Advance $22.00

Day of show $25.00

Saturday, May 21st

SambaDa

Afro Brazilian Dance Party 9:00 PM, Doors Open 8:00 PM. Moe's Alley welcomes back SAMBADÁ for an Afro Brazilian Dancy Party not to be missed. Dubbed the West Coast's hottest Brazilian band by promoters, journalists and fans, SambaDá musically unites the Americas. Based in the rich musical traditions of Brazil, SambaDá also references salsa and cumbia, and blends them playfully with funk and reggae beats. Brazilian natives Papiba Godinho and Dandha da Hora bring profound knowledge and respect for Brazilian music, and together with the entire band, they present a unique musical sound with a universal appeal. SambaDá was formed in 1998 in Santa Cruz, California, by capoeira master Papiba Godinho, saxophonist Anne Stafford, and drummer Gary Kehoe and has gone on to conquer clubs and festivals across the country with its explosive Carnival-like performances. The band is known for its high-energy percussion, danceable grooves and visually dynamic show. When singer and dancer Dandha da Hora arrived in Santa Cruz from Salvador, Bahia, Brazil and joined SambaDá in 2005, she brought the power of her Afro-Brazilian cultural heritage to the band. Dandha has been a performing member of the renowned group Ilê Aiyê of Brazil since she was 6 years old. Ilê Aiyê is one of the most beloved and important Afro Blocos from Bahia, Brazil. It is known all over the world for its music and dance performance and its social activism, fighting racism and promoting education, culture and tradition. Honoring Ilê Aiyê's legacy as well as their own commitment to a more just world, SambaDá works and plays for social justice, peace and the respect of all cultures and peoples. Also in 2005, SambaDá crossed paths with Grammy-nominated music producer Greg Landau to create the 2007 release "Salve a Bahia". With "Salve", the band created a new sound that not only paid homage to folkloric music but also captured the spirit and musical background of each band member and added a modern, funky edge. The recording project and the bands' live shows also grew from the collaboration with two more talents from Bahia, Brazil, percussionists Marcio Peeter and Wagner Profeta. Marcio and Wagner bring their deep percussive knowledge and groove to the studio albums, as well as to the stage. Following the success of "Salve a Bahia", the band collaborated on a second album with Greg Landau, the album "Gente" which was released in the spring of 2010. "Gente" vibrates with the inspiration of the band's first tour to Brazil in July 2009, and reflects their desire to share their dedication to Brazilian music, with some unique California flavor, with audiences everywhere. 2013 was a great year for SambaDá, as they welcomed 3 new members to the band, Etienne Franc (Chris Rene, OPM, Check in the Dark) on bass, and Senegalese drum master Ibou Ngom (Danjuma, Koumbemba) and Abel Damasceno from Bahia Brazil (Batala San Francisco) on percussion. They had a busy year touring, including headlining the Houston International Festival and playing New Orleans for the first time in April, and returning to Philadelphia and New York City, where they played SOB's to a packed house at the end of September. 2014 found the group launching a brand-new album, alongside busy touring schedule. Inspired by recent collaborations and adventures, SambaDá has been busy exploring new dimensions of the music they love, which they are eager to share with fans old and new!

Advance $15.00

Day of show $20.00

Tuesday, May 24th

King Gizzard And The Lizzard Wizard

$15.00

The Murlocs. 9:00 PM, Doors Open 8:00 PM. Presented By (folkYEAH!). (folkYEAH!) Presents King Gizzard And The Lizzard Wizard for a very special Santa Cruz debut performance. Special guests The Murlocs support. Completely fried 7-piece garage punk band of theremin-wielding psychopaths half originating from the flat salt bush plains of Deniliquin and the other from the sea-stained Anglesea coastline, brought together through a share house in Melbourne and a mutual love of Pavement, Thee Oh Sees and Nuggets. They released their debut EP "Willoughby's Beach" on a limited run of 10" vinyl in October 2011. The first single "Black Tooth" pricked the ears of Triple J's Dom Alessio, who dubbed the band : "a tour de force of reverberated rock'n'roll." The band soon gained a devoted and at times visceral Melbourne following – selling out several residencies and their debut EP launch at the Tote Hotel. In the following weeks King Gizzard were nominated for Best New Talent at The Age's EG Awards alongside Kimbra, Lanie Lane, Royal Headache and Husky. 2012 began with Gizzard being officially "unearthed" by Triple J, winning a spot at the Melbourne Big Day Out. They also landed a tour with US musician Girl Talk performing sold out shows at the Enmore Theatre in Sydney and Palace Theatre in Melbourne. A huge 2012/13 summer ensued with appearances at Falls Music and Arts Festival, Queenscliff Music Festival, Cherry Rock and a national tour with Jeff The Brotherhood.

Friday, May 27th

The English Beat

UK Ska Legends Return For 2 Nights Memorial Day Weekend! + DJ Dr Wood. 9:00 PM, Doors, 8:00 PM. Friday Night Ticket. Moe's Alley welcomes back UK Ska legends The english beat for two nights on memorial day weekend. This show info page is for FRIDAY Night may 27th. One tempestuous weekend in March 1979 was not only the date of the Three Mile Island nuclear incident, but also, in Birmingham, England, the very first show by a nascent band known as The Beat. Introduced as "the hottest thing since the Pennsylvania meltdown", the band had a sense that the next few years could well be explosive! The Beat hailed from working class, industrial Birmingham, England. When The Beat rushed on to the music scene in 1979, it was a time of social, political and musical upheaval. Into this storm came The Beat, trying to calm the waters with their simple message of love and unity set to a great dance beat. The Beat were all about inclusion, rather than exclusion, and this showed in their personnel and their music influences. The original band consisted of Dave Wakeling on vocals and guitar, Andy Cox on guitar, David Steele on bass, and Everett Morton on drums – later additions Ranking Roger (toasting) and foundational First Wave Ska legend Saxa (saxophone) completed the outfit. The band crossed over fluidly between soul, reggae, pop and punk, and from these disparate pieces they created an infectious dance rhythm. Along with their contemporaries The Specials, The Selecter, and Madness, the band became an overnight sensation and one of the most popular and influential bands of the British Two Tone Ska movement. By Christmas of 1979, The Beat were riding high in the UK charts with their first single, a smoking remake of the classic Smokey Robinson tune Tears of a Clown. Over the course of the next five years The Beat toured relentlessly and released three studio albums: I Just Can't Stop It, Wh'appen, and Special Beat Service. The band toured the world, touring with such artists as David Bowie, The Police, REM, The Clash, The Talking Heads, The Pretenders, and The Specials, to name but a few. The Beat kept scoring hits with tunes that have now become so popular that it's hard to remember a time when they didn't exist, such as Mirror in the Bathroom, Save it for Later, I Confess, Stand Down Margaret, and their serene cover of the Andy William penned Can't Get Used To Losing You. Despite their huge success, The Beat continued singing about and acting on the problems we all face. They donated all the profits from their highly successful single version of Stand Down Margaret to the Committee for Nuclear Disarmament. They donated their music to causes including the anti-nuclear benefit album Life in The European Theatre, The World of Music and Dance album focusing on indigenous people's art, and lent their voices to The Special AKA's anthemic freedom cry Free Nelson Mandela, to name but a few. Dave Wakeling once told me that every great band only has three really good albums. And true to form, The Beat decided to call it quits after their third album, Special Beat Service. Of course, that was not the last we would hear from the Beat boys. After The Beat, Dave Wakeling formed General Public with his mate Roger. The band took off quickly, scoring numerous hits off the their three studio albums, including Tenderness, So Hot You're Cool, Never You Done That, Come Again, Too Much or Nothing, and I'll Take You There. Dave's good looks and soulful crooning combined brilliantly with Roger's gravelly toasting, high intensity showmanship and upful beat, and GP took the critics and fans by storm. While Dave was penning hits Stateside, Andy Cox and David Steele were putting their own band together. Andy and David placed an ad for a singer on MTv, and received an extraordinary gift, in the form of one Roland Gift. With Roland onboard, the Fine Young Cannibals was formed and right from the release of their first single Johnny Come Home, the band was a hit. Their two studio albums scored multiple hit singles, with tunes such as She Drives Me Crazy and Good Thing becoming instant classics. Not being slackers either, Saxa and Everett Morton put together their own band, International Beat, blending modern pop with traditional Jamaican rhythms to form a wonderful hybrid sound. International Beat toured around the world and released two live albums, including cameos from Dave and Roger. Combined, all these bands scored multi-platinum record sales, sold out shows all over the world, and, most importantly, universal fan approval because they kept The Beat alive! That ember was nursed back into a roaring flame in February 2003, when a dream came true for many Beat fans as the band reunited for a UK tour, culminating in a sold out command performance at the prestigious Royal Festival Hall! It was a wonderful night for the band and their fans. Consummate showman that he is, Dave Wakeling has continued to keep The Beat alive and strong. How could he not? Dave continues to tour the world as The English Beat with an amazing all-star ska backing band playing all the hits of The Beat, General Public, and his new songs. You just can't stop The Beat!

Advance $23.00

Day of Show $28.00

Saturday, May 28th

The English Beat

UK Ska Legends Return For 2 Nights Memorial Day Weekend! + DJ Dr Wood. 9:00 PM, Doors, 8:00 PM. Saturday Night Ticket. Moe's Alley welcomes back UK Ska legends THE ENGLISH BEAT for two nights on memorial day weekend. This show info page is for SATURDAY NIGHT MAY 28th. One tempestuous weekend in March 1979 was not only the date of the Three Mile Island nuclear incident, but also, in Birmingham, England, the very first show by a nascent band known as The Beat. Introduced as "the hottest thing since the Pennsylvania meltdown", the band had a sense that the next few years could well be explosive! The Beat hailed from working class, industrial Birmingham, England. When The Beat rushed on to the music scene in 1979, it was a time of social, political and musical upheaval. Into this storm came The Beat, trying to calm the waters with their simple message of love and unity set to a great dance beat. The Beat were all about inclusion, rather than exclusion, and this showed in their personnel and their music influences. The original band consisted of Dave Wakeling on vocals and guitar, Andy Cox on guitar, David Steele on bass, and Everett Morton on drums – later additions Ranking Roger (toasting) and foundational First Wave Ska legend Saxa (saxophone) completed the outfit. The band crossed over fluidly between soul, reggae, pop and punk, and from these disparate pieces they created an infectious dance rhythm. Along with their contemporaries The Specials, The Selecter, and Madness, the band became an overnight sensation and one of the most popular and influential bands of the British Two Tone Ska movement. By Christmas of 1979, The Beat were riding high in the UK charts with their first single, a smoking remake of the classic Smokey Robinson tune Tears of a Clown. Over the course of the next five years The Beat toured relentlessly and released three studio albums: I Just Can't Stop It, Wh'appen, and Special Beat Service. The band toured the world, touring with such artists as David Bowie, The Police, REM, The Clash, The Talking Heads, The Pretenders, and The Specials, to name but a few. The Beat kept scoring hits with tunes that have now become so popular that it's hard to remember a time when they didn't exist, such as Mirror in the Bathroom, Save it for Later, I Confess, Stand Down Margaret, and their serene cover of the Andy William penned Can't Get Used To Losing You. Despite their huge success, The Beat continued singing about and acting on the problems we all face. They donated all the profits from their highly successful single version of Stand Down Margaret to the Committee for Nuclear Disarmament. They donated their music to causes including the anti-nuclear benefit album Life in The European Theatre, The World of Music and Dance album focusing on indigenous people's art, and lent their voices to The Special AKA's anthemic freedom cry Free Nelson Mandela, to name but a few. Dave Wakeling once told me that every great band only has three really good albums. And true to form, The Beat decided to call it quits after their third album, Special Beat Service. Of course, that was not the last we would hear from the Beat boys. After The Beat, Dave Wakeling formed General Public with his mate Roger. The band took off quickly, scoring numerous hits off the their three studio albums, including Tenderness, So Hot You're Cool, Never You Done That, Come Again, Too Much or Nothing, and I'll Take You There. Dave's good looks and soulful crooning combined brilliantly with Roger's gravelly toasting, high intensity showmanship and upful beat, and GP took the critics and fans by storm. While Dave was penning hits Stateside, Andy Cox and David Steele were putting their own band together. Andy and David placed an ad for a singer on MTv, and received an extraordinary gift, in the form of one Roland Gift. With Roland onboard, the Fine Young Cannibals was formed and right from the release of their first single Johnny Come Home, the band was a hit. Their two studio albums scored multiple hit singles, with tunes such as She Drives Me Crazy and Good Thing becoming instant classics. Not being slackers either, Saxa and Everett Morton put together their own band, International Beat, blending modern pop with traditional Jamaican rhythms to form a wonderful hybrid sound. International Beat toured around the world and released two live albums, including cameos from Dave and Roger. Combined, all these bands scored multi-platinum record sales, sold out shows all over the world, and, most importantly, universal fan approval because they kept The Beat alive! That ember was nursed back into a roaring flame in February 2003, when a dream came true for many Beat fans as the band reunited for a UK tour, culminating in a sold out command performance at the prestigious Royal Festival Hall! It was a wonderful night for the band and their fans. Consummate showman that he is, Dave Wakeling has continued to keep The Beat alive and strong. How could he not? Dave continues to tour the world as The English Beat with an amazing all-star ska backing band playing all the hits of The Beat, General Public, and his new songs. You just can't stop The Beat!

Advance $25.00

Day of show $30.00

Monday, May 30th

Gondwana + Fayuca

8:00 PM, Doors, 8:30 PM, Moe's Alley welcomes back International Reggae Legends from Chile GONDWANA. Don't miss this 9 piece Latin Reggae powerhouse complete with horns for a night of high-energy Reggae En Español. Video: Sentimiento For 25 years now, the Chilean band Gondwana has been spreading the word of Jah Love. Emerging from the Latin root in reggae, Gondwana brings forth a fresh blend of Latin and Jamaican rhythms. With pulsating energy and a smooth sound, seven polished musicians are the soul of Chile's number one reggae band today. Charismatic lead vocalist and guitarist, Quique Neira combined with bassist I-Locks Labbe, forms the band's songwriting duo, while all of the members, including Keno "Fingaman" Valenzuela on keyboards and back-up vocals, Alexcy Cardenas on drums, Gato Ramos on saxophone, Pez Lopez on guitar, and Pato Luca on trumpet are responsible for musical arrangements. Spirit moving falsetto notes, bubbling bass and hard drums, tight horns and guitars with the ability to move with ease in a sound ranging from calypso to hard rock; are the skillful ingredients found in the highly acclaimed Gondwana.Produced by Dr. Dread of RAS Records, Gondwana's self-titled debut album, Together, initially available only in Chile through BMG, is now on RAS label as well. Two singles, "Chainga Langa" and "Armonia de Amor" have gone to number one, with a third, "Sentimento Original" reaching the top five in Chile. All three songs are supported by inspiring music videos. With songs of love, social commentary, and spiritual praise, Gondwana reveals positive messages that serve as an uplifting vibration for fans of all musical genres. Already superstars in their native Chile, Gondwana has been gaining very enthusiastic fans throughout the world one by one. From humble beginnings in La Pincoya, a Northern Santiago ghetto, to a leading position in Chilean pop music, Gondwana has remained true to their original posture, standing tall and strong in a peace-loving position of musical and lyrical creation.

$20.00

$25.00

Wednesday, June 1st

World's Finest + Abalone Grey

Americana/Ska/Rock From Portland Oregon Meets Santa Cruz Bluegrass/Americana/Roots Favorites 8:30 PM, Doors Open 8:00 PM, Moe's Alley presents World's Finest + Abalone Grey for a special double bill performance. ABOUT WORLD'S FINEST Creating what could best be described as Neo-Americana, World's Finest has bridged the gap between ska, Americana, dub and bluegrass. Hailing from all over the country the band is comprised of five members: Chris Couch (acoustic guitar, vocals), Dan Hurley (electric banjo, vocals), Sean McLean (sax, electric guitar, vocals), Evan Malfer (electric + upright bass), and Mike Apodaca (drums). Even with their very different musical and geographical backgrounds, they have undoubtedly found inspiration in each others' taste, talents, and sensibilities. Strong songwriting, beautiful vocal harmonies, engaging band interplay and improvisation are only a handful of the many reasons why the band has garnered critical acclaim, and an ever-growing regional and national fan base. ABOUT ABALONE GREY Strong vocal harmonies, engaging soulful lyrics and unique melodies make up the backbone of the band Abalone Grey. The band formed in late 2014 after players from various musical projects joined together at one of those "classic, rare and special musical gatherings" on the north coast of Santa Cruz, CA. The members of Abalone Grey include: Bobcat Rob Armenti (vocals, guitar, banjo), Emma Rae Marie Shaw (vocals, bass), Kat Factor (vocals, piano, guitar, washboard), Luke Kinney (vocals, mandolin, guitar) and Joe Kaplow (vocals, banjo, guitar). As a group they showcase a strong collection of musical talent, translating into folk love ballads, murderous melodies and foot stomping rhythms.

Advance $7.00

Day of show $10.00

Thursday, June 2nd

Royal Jelly Jive + The Soul Of John Black

A Night Of Gypsy, Blues, Soul & Roots Music 8:30 PM, Doors, 8:00 PM, Moe's Alley presents a double bill with ROYAL Jelly Jive + the Soul of John Black. About Royal Jelly Jive An intoxicating mixed drink of Gypsy Rock and Soul Jive, Royal Jelly Jive dives deep head-first into the old school throwback sounds of the 1940's with a groovy new twist. Rapturous horns, sleek bass, elegant keys and swingin' cymbals are just some of the sweet tastes you may devour if you're lucky enough to catch them. All fronted by the sultry and soulful vocals of Lauren Bjelde, this band will have you stompin' your feet with crooked delight until the moon comes back up again. Go get yourself some of that Royal Jelly Jive now! ABOUT THE SOUL OF JOHN BLACK Funky blend of blues, soul, and rock" from ex- Fishbone and Miles Davis sideman, merging rootsy, bluesy fundamentals with modern soul, funk, and hip-hop influences. John "JB" Bigham is a singer, songwriter, performer, producer and innovator - an artist who blends the sounds of the past and the future with the smooth confidence and authority of a card shark shuffling a hot deck. But when it comes to creating visionary music under the moniker of his alter-ego/band The Soul of John Black, there's no gambling involved. Bigham's smart blend of rock, funk, hip-hop, and R&B - all embraced by his love of classic and modern blues - makes him a true twenty-first-century soul man. The musical foundation of this Los Angeles-based innovator who has worked with Miles Davis, Dr. Dré, Nikka Costa, Eminem, and other A-list talents was built during his childhood in the Windy City. "I learned about music from my friends, my parents and the radio," JB says. "In Chicago a lot of soul-blues was popular, and even doo-wop, but when I got turned on to Jimi Hendrix and Led Zeppelin, as a guitar player there was no turning back." With that broad stylistic education under his belt, Bigham moved to L.A. to pursue a career in music and began working as a touring sideman and session player. His first high profile gig was playing guitar for R&B hit man El DeBarge. But JB's personal history as an experimenter goes back to 1989, when he began an eight-year tenure playing guitar and keyboards in pioneering ska-funk-punk band Fishbone. "Oddly enough, I didn't get into really deep old school blues until I was working with Miles and he recorded songs with John Lee Hooker for the soundtrack to a movie called The Hot Spot. That music affected me profoundly. John Lee Hooker became one of my main guys. I also figured that if his music and Miles Davis' could blend so beautifully, I should be able to find my own way of combining everything that I love. And that's what The Soul of John Black is about."

Advance $7.00

Day of show $10.00

Friday, June 3rd

The Itals

Cruzah with Blazeen & DJ Spleece. 9:00 PM, Doors Open 8:00 PM, Moe's Alley presents THE ITALS for a night of classic Jamaican Roots Reggae. The word "Legend" gets thrown around a lot in Reggae...but in this case THE ITALS with over 40 years in the Reggae business with hit pon hit....it's a band deserving the title. VIDEO- The Itals "Live At Montreal Jazz Festival" 1984 (Full Concert) Audio "In A Dis Ya Time" Audio "Don't Wake The Lion" Audio "Satisfaction" Audio "Brutal" Audio "Herbs Pirate" THE ITALS - NEW ALBUM - LETS GET IT ON The Itals are still vital and bearing ripe fruit. In November and December they will be touring spreading their roots messages, melodies and harmonies across the US in support of their R&B tribute album - Let's Get It On. Love Me Twice, the first single from the new album is getting a lot of airplay and appreciation. Also coming out soon is the repackaged Itals compilation Mind Over Matter, which has been out of print for several years and features many of their biggest hits. The Itals previous release - For The Good Times -- is also available. The Itals DVD - My Way High Way features a song from their 2011 release - Let Them Talk. Out of Savana La Mar, Jamaica, for years Keith Porter and his band are one of the hardest working touring reggae acts in North America. These music messengers have the horsepower and perseverance to perform in some of the farthest North American outposts. For this sacrifice, they are greatly loved and respected by their fans. Keith Porter's father was a minister in Jamaica, and with these roots, Keith has been bringing forth the message from an early age. Known for their tight harmonies, and uplifting songs, these reggae ambassadors have been touring fresh and strong since the early eighties. After many hard years on the road, they are still youthful and in good health. Keith Porter has proven himself to be one of the strongest men in the business. His endurance is remarkable. Keith "never gets weary". The Itals are living samples of the "Rasta Philosophy". The Itals continue to champion the roots reggae sound they helped to create. The band got their start in the late 1960s when friends Alvin "Keith" Porter and Ronnie Davis, then known as the Westmorelites (named after Jamaica's Westmoreland parish), recorded the hit single "Hitey Titey" for Clement "Coxsone" Dodds' esteemed Studio One label. Porter and Davis crossed paths again in 1975 and recorded their classic "Ina Dis Ya Time" as the Itals, taking their name from the Jamaican patois word meaning natural - pure and unprocessed. The Itals are recognized as one of reggae's premier "harmony groups." The diverse seaside community of Westmoreland, where Keith grew up, greatly influenced his laid-back singing style, and the righteous outlook on life often described in the Itals' music. In contrast to the violence and sexism that runs through some of dancehall's most popular tunes, the Itals' roots reggae sound remains to this day focused on positivity, love and harmony. "Got to reveal, got to reveal. The truth that is hid, has got to reveal", chant the Itals. "Sing farewell to my enemies. Sing farewell to my enemies -- Alphas love is over me." The Itals songs help us remember God and the Holy Spirit, and to count His many great blessings. Just for the gifts of sight and hearing, we could never be thankful enough. "Temptation is a thing trying to keep me away from Jah glory. I love, I love, I love - Jah glory." When the Itals hit the stage, "Jah glory" is in full effect.

Advance $15.00

Day of show $20.00

Saturday, June 4th

The David Nelson Band

Psychedelic/Roots/Rock Favorites Return 8:30pm doors, 7:30pm show, The David Nelson Band has been recording and performing around the country since 1994. Their broad musical palette spans the Almost Acoustic style that Nelson played with Jerry Garcia, through roots rock n' roll and country-rock, to full blown psychedelic, jazz tinged space jams. The DNB perform David's compositions (some co-written with Grateful Dead lyricist Robert Hunter), select covers, and several Grateful Dead classics upon which Nelson appeared on the original album releases. These stylistic elements, combined with plenty of spontaneous free form improvisation, create a sound that is uniquely David Nelson Band. Though the original songs are mostly written by Nelson, the development of all the material is a fully collaborative effort. The Nelson, Sless, Siegel, Sears, Molo Band as a name is a bit cumbersome - though in reality, that's what they are. These days the DNB only tour select areas a few times a year, as the individual band members are in high demand with other successful touring acts. Their loyal and enthusiastic fans relish these special times to reunite at Nelson family gatherings. DNB shows are a joyous reunion for all - a communal gathering where regulars and newcomers all feel part of an extended family. Each show, being unique and exploratory in nature, is a magical adventure for band and audience alike. It's one of the reasons why many of the fans follow the band to every show, including their annual Hawaii Tour (which draws many mainland fans as well as islanders for the week to ten day island party). David Nelson - guitar/ vocals - is a founding member of the New Riders of the Purple Sage and long time musical partner of Jerry Garcia's dating back to 1962 in the pre-Grateful Dead bluegrass band, The Wildwood Boys. Nelson was also a member of the Jerry Garcia Acoustic Band and performed on three Grateful Dead albums - Aoxomoxoa, Workingman's Dead & American Beauty - playing the character laden electric guitar solo on Box of Rain. Nelson has also performed as a member of Phil Lesh and Friends. Barry Sless - lead guitar/ pedal steel - has been a frequent member of Phil Lesh and Friends lineups since 2004. He tours currently with Moonalice and has toured as a member of Kingfish, Cowboy Jazz, the Rowan Brothers, and Great American Taxi. Mookie Siegel - keyboards/ accordion/ vocals - has toured with Bob Weir's Ratdog, Phil Lesh and Friends, Kingfish and Donna Jean and the Tricksters. Pete Sears - bass/ vocals - was the bassist and keyboard player for the original Jefferson Starship from 1974-1987, keyboardist for Hot Tuna from 1992 to 2001 and currently performs with Moonalice. Pete has played with Phil Lesh and Friends and appears on their 1999 release, Love Will See You Thru. Pete began his career in England in 1964 and has performed with many artists including Jerry Garcia, John Cipollina, and appears on Rod Stewart's classic early British albums. John Molo - drums - was part of almost every Phil Lesh and Friends lineup from 1999 - 2009. When the Grateful Dead reformed (after Jerry Garcia's death) as the The Other Ones in 1998, John was a member. He has won a Grammy award for his work as a member of Bruce Hornsby and the Range, who he performed with from 1986 – 1999. He has also toured with Creedence Clearwater Revival founder John Fogerty and currently tours with Moonalice.

Advance $25.00

Day of show $30.00

Wednesday, June 22nd

Atash

Voted Best World Music Band in Austin For 6 Years Straight. 8:00 PM, Doors Open 8:30 PM show. Moe's Alley welcomes the Santa Cruz debut of world music greats ATASH. Voted BEST WORLD MUSIC BAND in Austin for the 6 years straight – Atash combines master musicians from around the globe to create a powerful, worldly original sound that inspires people of all ages and from all walks of life to dance and commune in a celebration of life! Beyond Austin, Atash has spread its message of love and peace on the east and west coasts, in Taiwan, China, Spain and México, gaining legions of fans and sharing stages with such notable acts as Youssou N'Dour, Maceo Parker, Angelique Kidjo, Ojos de Brujo, The Counting Crows, Diego El Cigala, Omar Souleyman, Fatoumata Diawara, Ricardo Lemvo, Delhi 2 Dublin, Red Baraat, Dengue Fever, and fellow Austinites The Octopus Project. They are truly the Austin ambassadors of world music. When the music hits you, you feel no pain. arsi for "fire," Atash has been rocking audiences around the world since 2001. Made up of band members from the Middle East, India, Europe and the Americas, the group's home is in the musical mecca of Austin, Texas, where the band has been presented the Austin Music Award for Best World Music Band at the SXSW Music Festival for the last six years in a row. High calibre musicianship on instruments such as sitar, tabla, strings, flamenco guitar, upright bass, west African percussion and drumset; tight arrangements with eastern melodies, complex harmonies, driving rhythms, and a well-oiled ensemble; telepathic connection between musicians in a spirit of improvisation; the poetry of master medieval Sufi poets, ecstatically sung in Farsi by the powerful voice of the charismatic frontman Mohammad Firoozi — these elements describe Atash, but don't come close to the live experience of the band. A better way to put it might be as Bob Marley said, "When the music hits you, you feel no pain."

Advance $10.00

Day of Show $15.00

Thursday, June 23rd

Dave Alvin & Phil Alvin With The Guilty Ones

8:30pm doors, 7:30pm show, Moe's Alley welcomes back Dave Alvin & Phil Alvin With The Guilty Ones. "Lost time is not found again." This ancient idiom is at the heart of brothers Dave Alvin and Phil Alvin's long, tumultuous relationship. However, in Dave's own words, "Sometimes Fate, or God or the Universe, gives you a rare chance to prove an old saying is wrong." The brothers' new album, appropriately titled 'Lost Time' (September 18/Yep Roc Records), does just that. Listen to lead track "World's In A Bad Condition" now via the Wall Street Journal: http://on.wsj.com/1NgR2Wx Over 'Lost Time's' twelve tracks, Dave and Phil pay homage to a number of artists and songs that had an early, formative influence, in Dave's words "the masters of the Blues, the most transcendental form of American music." Everyone from Lead Belly to James Brown is represented, but the figure who looms largest on the album, and in the brothers' own musical journey, is Big Joe Turner. The Alvins met Big Joe as teenagers, and he would mentor them for the remainder of his life. They remain his humble students, and cut four Turner songs for 'Lost Time.' If their GRAMMY-nominated 2014 album 'Common Ground' was the sound of a partnership rekindled, 'Lost Time' is a four-alarm fire. Dave's guitar work slithers and stings as never before, and Phil's feral howl cuts to the core. Dave and Phil both sing and play guitar throughout 'Lost Time,' and are joined by a crack band including Lisa Pankratz (drums), Brad Fordham (bass), and Chris Miller (guitar). The Alvin brothers founded seminal early LA punk roots band The Blasters in 1979, and after Dave left the group in 1986, they did not record an album together again until 'Common Ground.' In addition to its Grammy nomination, that record earned wide critical acclaim, and features with NPR's Fresh Air, The LA Times, Wall Street Journal and more.

Advance $25.00

Day of show $30.00

Saturday, June 25th

Israel Vibration + Roots Radics

Roots Reggae Legends Return 9:00pm doors, 8:00pm show, Moe's Alley welcomes Reggae legends ISRAEL VIBRATION backed by THE ROOTS RADICS for their long awaited return. debut performance. Buy your tickets early and don't miss this intimate performance with one of roots Reggae's greatest vocal groups on a Saturday night! Israel Vibrations VIDEO- My Master's Will Israel Vibrations & Roots Radics VIDEO-Cool & Calm Live Mention the name Israel Vibration in reggae music circles and watch the warmth of recognition and appreciation of anyone who has seen or heard this very special group of singers. The positive vibrations emanating from the music of Israel Vibration have been spellbinding audiences, critics and DJs for over two decades. This group of singers casts a harmonious musical spell, weaving traditional roots reggae with a mesmerizing sound and deeply spiritual message. Israel Vibration members Cecil Spence (Skelly) and Lascelle Bulgin (Wiss) were born in Jamaica, West Indies. Each is a victim of Poliomyelitis (Polio). They met as children in the Mona Rehabilitation Center, into which they were placed because of their families' limited resources and their needs for specialized medical care. They learned early on the necessity for developing survival skills, and although polio is an undeniably crippling and debilitating disease, the youths never let their physically challenging situation supercede their willpower and their creative abilities. They found strength in the faith of Rastafari through the guidance of His Imperial Majesty, Emperor Haile Selassie I of Ethiopia, and began composing and singing songs which expressed their spiritual beliefs. Their spirituality and stance on issues relating to their residency at the Mona Rehabilitation Center caused them to be expelled from that institution. Undaunted, they found solace, comfort, and sustenance in their music, which won them the support of their local community and provided them with encouragement to pursue their music careers. They began recording in 1976, enjoying a hit with the poignant Same Song, which was licensed to EMI and brought the group international attention. Their musical careers seemed to be taking off, but, like many Jamaican artists, Israel Vibration's recording career was set back by a local industry plagued at that time by questionable accounting practices, musical piracy, and a lack of tour support. In 1983, the group broke up and its members moved to the States both for superior medical care and to pursue solo projects. In 1988, each of the members approached Doctor Dread, president and founder of RAS Records, about solo recordings. Dr. Dread, who had greatly admired Israel Vibration's unique, resonating sound, took heed from the words of Marcus Garvey, and, telling them that "unity is strength," recommended that the members unite. They accepted, and the rest of the story is one of a beautiful relationship that began with Strength of My Life, and continued with Praises, Forever, Vibes Alive, IV, On The Rock, Free to Move, and several dub albums. On the Rock garnered much praise the single and video "Rudeboy Shufflin'," which, along with the "Feeling Irie" video, has been aired on BET as well as other television programs throughout the US and abroad. On The Rock and its follow-up Free To Move reached their height of success upon reaching number one on the CMJ New World charts. Their 1999 release, Pay the Piper, displays some of the strong material songwriters Skelly and Wiss are known for, and the album's featured video "Hard Road" was seen in 3900 Blockbuster video stores during the month of January, 2000. Their album Jericho, released May 16, 2000, is undeniably their strongest work in years and features the best musicians and harmonizers Jamaica has to offer. Skelly and Wiss fully commit to each honest lyric and sing from the heart with the true spirit of universality. Israel Vibration has been working closely with RAS Records for a long time, and will no doubt continue to do so while they redefine the term "Roots Reggae" for the new millennium.

Advance $32.00

Day of show $35.00

Thursday, July 7th

SIERRA LEONE'S REFUGEE ALL-STARS + Black Nature Band

West African Reggae & World Music. 8:30 PM, Doors Open 8:00 PM show. Moe's Alley welcomes back SIERRA LEONE'S REFUGEE ALL-STARS & special guests THE BLACK NATURE BAND. Sierra Leone's Refugee All Stars have risen like a phoenix out of the ashes of war and enflamed the passions of fans across the globe with their uplifting songs of hope, faith and joy. The band is a potent example of the redeeming power of music and the ability of the human spirit to persevere through unimaginable hardship and emerge with optimism intact. From their humble beginnings in West African refugee camps Sierra Leone's Refugee All Stars have performed on some of the world's most prestigious stages and matured into one of Africa's top touring and recording bands. Throughout the 1990s, the West African country of Sierra Leone was wracked with a bloody, horrifying war that forced millions to flee their homes. The musicians that would eventually form Sierra Leone's Refugee All Stars are all originally from Freetown, and they were forced to leave the capital city at various times after violent rebel attacks. Most of those that left the country made their way into neighboring Guinea, some ending up in refugee camps and others struggling to fend for themselves in the capital city of Conakry. Ruben Koroma and his wife Grace had left Sierra Leone in 1997 and found themselves in the Kalia refugee camp near the border with Sierra Leone. When it became clear they would not be heading back to their homeland anytime soon, they joined up with guitarist Francis John Langba (aka Franco), and bassist Idrissa Bangura (aka Mallam), other musicians in the camp whom they had known before the war, to entertain their fellow refugees. After a Canadian relief agency donated two beat up electric guitars, a single microphone and a meager sound system, Sierra Leone's Refugee All Stars were born. American filmmakers Zach Niles and Banker White encountered the band in the Sembakounya Camp, and were so inspired by their story they ended up following them for three years as they moved from camp to camp, bringing much needed joy to fellow refugees with their heartfelt performances. Eventually, the war in Sierra Leone came to an end, and over time the All Stars returned to Freetown, where they met other returning musicians who joined the band's rotating membership. It was there in the tin-roofed shacks of Freetown's ghettos that Sierra Leone's Refugee All Stars recorded the tracks that ended up, along with unplugged recordings made in the refugee camps, being the basis for their debut album, Living Like a Refugee, which was released on the label Anti in 2006. The resulting film that documented this moving saga, Sierra Leone's Refugee All Stars, was a critical success, and introduced the world to the personalities and dramatic stories behind the band, not to mention their instantly appealing music. "As harrowing as these personal tales may be," wrote The New York Times, "the music buoying them is uplifting." Newsweek raved, "It's as easy to fall in love with these guys as it was with the Buena Vista Social Club." The movie, album and eventual U.S. tours helped expand their following, and soon the band found itself playing in front of enraptured audiences of tens of thousands at New York's Central Park SummerStage, Japan's Fuji Rock Festival and the revered Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival. They appeared on the Oprah Winfrey Show, contributed a song to the Blood Diamond film soundtrack, participated in the U2 tribute album In the Name of Love: Africa Celebrates U2, and earned praise and backing from Sir Paul McCartney, Keith Richards, Ice Cube, Angelina Jolie and others inspired by their life-affirming story and captivating music. In one of the most surreal moments of their climb to fame, Sierra Leone's Refugee All Stars opened for Aerosmith at the 12,000-capacity Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Connecticut. The senseless deaths and illnesses of friends and family, including some of the band's original members, and the slimming hope for great change in their country as a result of peace, has only strengthened the resolve of Sierra Leone's Refugee All Stars to do what they can to turn their country around. Their weapon in this struggle is music, and their message, while offering critique and condemnation of wrongdoing, remains positive and hopeful. Optimism in the face of obstacles, and the eternal hope for a better future motivates their lives and music. "It's been a long struggle out of the war, out of miserable conditions," notes Koroma, "We try to bring out sensitive issues that are affecting the world. It is all of our responsibility that the masses are suffering. We bring our positive messages into the world so we can expect a positive change in the world. And, most importantly, bring about peace." For their second album, the members of the All Stars knew that they needed to prove to the world that they had the talent to produce an album that would rise above their unique story and stand on its own musical merits. After recording some songs and demos in Sierra Leone, the group went to New Orleans, Louisiana to work on the album with veteran producer Steve Berlin, a member of Los Lobos who has produced for Angélique Kidjo, Michelle Shocked, Jackie Green, Alex Ounsworth, Ozomatli, Rickie Lee Jones and many others. Rise & Shine brought the band new accolades and earned 2010 Album of the Year on the prestigious World Music Charts Europe. The group continued to tour to rapturous crowds, opening for the massive rock/reggae band Dispatch in front of a sold-out audience at Colorado's legendary Red Rocks Amphitheater in June 2011. The All Stars enjoyed an enviable residency on the Jam Cruise, a floating music festival on a Caribbean Cruise ship that also featured Bob Wier, Robert Randolph, Galactic and Maceo Parker. In addition, the band collaborated with a number of artists in 2011, recording the song "Iñez" with singer-songwriter Chris Velan, joining children's music superstar Dan Zanes on the song "Little Nut Tree" and appearing on the Playing for Change version of "Gimme Shelter." In January 2011, the All Stars returned to the studio, this time in snow-covered Brooklyn, NY. Their producer for their third studio album was producer and keyboardist Victor Axelrod, aka Ticklah, who has worked with Amy Winehouse, Sharon Jones & the Dap Kings, Antibalas, The Easy Star All Stars and many others. A master of dub, roots reggae, classic soul, Afrobeat and more, Axelrod added a whole new dimension to the All Stars sound and helped them reveal how years of touring have honed their skills. The All Stars took advantage of the vintage analog gear at Daptone affiliate Dunham Studios to record an album inspired by the retro sounds they heard blasting out of radios in their younger years. Old school reggae, funky African grooves and deep tribal chants form the musical underpinning of Radio Salone, which is scheduled for worldwide release on April 24,2012. The album title references "Salone" – meaning "Sierra Leone" in the native language of Krio – in which the band sings (along with five other languages) on the new album. The radio theme appears throughout the album artwork and reflects the impact that radio has long had on the band. In the pre-TV and Internet days, radio served as a connection to the rest of Africa and the globe. Long before the war, members of the band were exposed to vintage reggae, Congolese soukouss, American soul, and much more. During the war, radio provided an essential escape from the harsh reality of the refugee camps, bringing news and music to people desperate for a link to the world beyond the camps. Radio Salone represents a new musical high point for the group, and demonstrates once and for all that Sierra Leone's Refugee All Stars are one of the best bands in Africa and the world. With an active year of touring planned the All Stars look forward to building their global audience and bringing their message of hope and celebration to longtime fans and new audiences everywhere.

Advance $15.00

Day of Show $20.00

Friday, July 8th

The Coffis Brothers + McCoy Tyler

Moe's Alley presents a rootsy rock n' roll double bill with THE COFFIS BROTHERS & MCCOY TYLER. McCoy will be debuting new music in a differentband line up for this special show. The Coffis Brothers & The Mountain Men are a rootsy rock n' roll band born and raised in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Every bit as influential as their early surroundings, songwriters Jamie and Kellen Coffis' blend of folk, blues, R&B and straight ahead rock are evidence of an upbringing spent listening to all of the right records from Tom Petty, Neil Young, and The Beatles. Released in February of this year, Wrong Side of The Road is The Coffis Brothers second full length album. Recorded at Gadgetbox Studios in Santa Cruz with engineer and producer, Andy Zenczak (Camper Van Beethoven's Greg Lisher), the album features contributions from friends of the band like Jim Lewin (Great American Taxi, Todd Snider), Ryan Avellone (The Brothers Comatose) and jazz vocalist Tammi Brown (Stanley Jordan). Getting out and playing for fans both old and new has always been first and foremost for The Coffis Brothers. It was after all, these fans that funded Wrong Side of The Road on Kickstarter – pledging over 150% what the band needed. It's not only concertgoers that are taking note either… The Coffis Brothers & the Mountain Men have developed a sound that has an easy rock vibe that's actually hip." – San Francisco Chronicle"The Coffis Brothers mix a blend of folk, country and rock with the intensity of personal lyrics into a gritty and often tender harmony of sound… a show that delivers one part Avett Brothers and one part early Neil Young for a full night of dancing and fun." – Santa Cruz Weekly . Jamie and Kellen are joined by Kyle Poppen on lead guitar, Aidan Collins on bass and Henry Chadwick on drums. Their debut self titled full-length album was released in 2011 and was followed by 2012's Waiting For You EP.

Advance $9.00

Day of Show $12.00

Friday, July 15th

Los Amigos Invisibles

Latin Rhythms Meet Fiery Funk From Venezuala 9:00pm doors, 8:00pm show, Moe's Alley welcomes back LOS AMIGOS INVISIBLES for a Friday night dance party! Get your tickets well in advance for this one! VIDEO- "Mentiras" Since their first album in 1995, Los Amigos Invisibles have developed a sound based on the "gozadera" – an irresistible fusion of Latin rhythms with fiery funk and lounge music. The band got their first break when David Byrne (Talking Heads) discovered one of their albums by chance in a Manhattan record shop. He immediately called the band up in their native Venezuela and soon after, signed them to his label: Luaka Bop. Byrne opened doors for the band across the globe and Los Amigos Invisibles soon became an international touring machine. Los Amigos Invisibles moved to New York City from their hometown of Caracas in 2001 and entrenched themselves in the local scene. With their electrifying live show, the group began building a considerable fan-base across the U.S. collaborating with artists such as Louie Vega (Masters At Work), Dimitri From Paris, Natalia Lafourcade, Cachorro López and Jorge Gonzalez, among others. Los Amigos Invisibles were able to establish themselves in the international dance music scene and expand their sound, while raking in Grammy nominations year after year and performing all over the globe as well as on television shows like The Jimmy Kimmel Show. In the last few years, they have established their own record label – Gozadera Records – and have tightened their hooks and focused their songs, recording their most accessible work yet. Los Amigos Invisibles have toured in over 60 countries. They're latest release, 'Commercial,' was awarded a Latin GRAMMY for "Best Alternative Album"; the band's fifth-career GRAMMY Nomination. Following their Grammy win, 2010 saw festival appearances and shows throughout the United States, Latin America, Europe, Australia and New Zealand. In 2011, the band released Not So Commercial, an EP of outtakes from the Commercial album. This album was a nominee for the Grammy Award for Best Latin Pop, Rock or Urban Album in 2012. In April 2013, Repeat After Me was released. This album received a Grammy nomination in the category of "Best Latin Alternative Album" and a Latin Grammy in the category of "Best Alternative Album", "Song of the year" and "Best Cover". In 2014, the band is releasing a greatest hits compilation recorded live in Mexico City with acoustic versions of some of their most famous songs with featurings from some of the patins scene ́s finest. Los Amigos Invisibles are: Mauricio Arcas: Percussion Julio Briceño: Vocals Juan Manuel Roura: Drums José Rafael Torres: Bass.

Advance $25.00

Day of show $30.00

Saturday, July 16th

Melvin Seals & JGB

"The Keepers Of The Flame" Return. 9:00 PM, Doors Open 8:00 PM show. Moe's Alley welcomes back MELVIN SEALS & THE JERRY GARCIA BAND for a Saturday night party not to be missed. Melvin Seals has been a powerful presence in the music industry for over 30 years with a long-established reputation as a performer, recording artist and producer. Melvin is most revered for his powerful, high-spirited, Hammond B-3 organ, and keyboards in the Jerry Garcia Band. Melvin spun his B-3 magic with the Jerry Garcia Band for 18 years and in doing so helped pioneer and define what has now become "Jam Band Music". From blues to funk to rock to jazz, Melvin Seals serves up a tasty mix with a little R&B and gospel thrown in to spice things up. Melvin and JGB bring an intuitive, expressive style, soul, spontaneity and remarkable chops to the table. With acoustic and electric ingredients and unique combinations of Dave Hebert's guitar and vocals, John Paul McLean's savory bass, Pete Lavezzoli's hearty drums and, of course, a heapin' helpin' of the wizard's magic on Hammond B-3 Organ and keyboards. Along with Shirley Starks and Cheryl Rucker on back-up vocals, the result is a most satisfying blend of natural organic grooves that challenges genre boundaries. Their chemistry is the focus from which they create a spontaneous and high art where the sky is the limit musically. They offer an exciting, often psychedelic musical journey that changes nightly and keeps the audience dancing and smiling (and some staring in amazement) for hours. Adding his rock-gospel-soul-rhythm and blues touch with his funky style of playing, no wonder Jerry nicknamed him "Master of the Universe". Melvin continues to treat music lovers to his unique brand of melodic flavor with JGB. Come see and hear for yourself! JGB Band is: Melvin Seals - Hammond B3 and Leslies, Roland RD700 Keyboard, vocals, Dave Hebert - Gibson SG electric guitar, lead vocals, John Paul McLean - Bass, Pete Lavezzoli - Drums

Advance $20.00

Day of Show $25.00

Wednesday, July 20th

Boogat + Bang Data

"bridging Latin groove with urban and electronic music". 9:00 PM, Doors Open 8:00 PM show. Moe's Alley presents the Santa Cruz debut of BOOGAT for a special Latin/Hip-Hop & World music double bill BANG DATA. BOOGAT VIDEO- "Eres Hecho Para Mi". BOOGAT VIDEO - "El Lobo". BANG DATA VIDEO - "Bang Data". Boogat is a talented MC living in Montreal, bridging Latin groove with urban and electronic music, while telling everyday life stories with catchy hooks. With his album "El Dorado Sunset," Boogat was embraced by the general public in Quebec. "El Dorado Sunset" won Felix awards at the industry gala, L'Adisq for Best World Music Album and Best Producer of the Year. Boogat has opened for the Nortec Collective, Quantic, Gilles Peterson, Chromeo and many others, and he has earned international recognition mainly in Mexico and the US where tours and festival appearances have increased significantly over the past few years. But Boogat is not only limited to the festival scene. Some of his songs have even made it to Hollywood, including placements in blockbuster films like "The Forger" and tv series like "Homeland." Boogat is a brilliant MC who constantly reinvents himself with his prolific discography and a unique artistic approach and his explosive live show will turn any situation into a party.

Advance $7.00

Day of Show $10.00

Thursday, July 21st

Grateful Bluegrass Boys + Achilles Wheel

Full Set By Each Band + Both Bands Combine For 3rd Set Tribute To Grateful Dead's "Reckoning" Album 8:00pm doors, 8:30pm show, Moe's Alley presents Grateful Bluegrass Boys + Achilles Wheel. Each band will perform a full live set, and then combine for a 3rd set tribute to the Grateful Dead's beloved album "Reckoning".

Advance $9.00

Day of show $12.00

Saturday, July 23rd

La Santa Cecilia

Grammy Winners Return For A Latin Dance Party 9:00pm doors, 8:00pm show, Touring In Support Of Their New Album Buenaventura, Moe's Alley proudly presents Grammy Winners LA SANTA CECILIA for a night of a Latin dance party not to be missed. La Santa Cecilia are touring behind the new album "Buenaventura". La Santa Cecilia started their career by serenading passers by on the embellished corners of Downtown Los Angeles' Olvera Street. They are a musical phenomenon that has won a Grammy, toured from coast to coast, collaborated with Elvis Costello, appeared on Conan, and most recently shared the stage with Led Zeppelin's John Paul Jones. Named after the patron saint of music, La Santa Cecilia is composed of accordionist and requinto player Jose 'Pepe' Carlos, bassist Alex Bendaña, percussionist Miguel 'Oso' Ramirez, and vocalist 'La Marisoul'. With captivating voice that sings about love, loss, and disappointment, the band has become the voice of a new bicultural generation in the United States, fully immersed in modern music, but still close to their Latin American influences and Mexican heritage. La Santa Cecilia was thrown onto the map in 2011 with the release of their debut album "Noches y Citas". This album gave them their first nomination at the Latin Grammy Awards for the single "La Negra". It was also with this release that they first voiced their sympathy and support for various human rights movements, and have since used their music to openly support these causes. They followed that album with 'El Valor' in 2012, which was named one of the best albums of the year by NPR's Alt Latino. And then came the big one -'Treinta Días'. The album was recorded in 2013 and showed the band moving in a more sophisticated direction, while holding true to themselves. They combined cumbia, reggae, soul, tango, and their L.A. spice to create an album that went on to win the Grammy for 'Best Latin Rock Album, Alternative or Urban' in 2014. The album featured a song called ' ICE (El Hielo)', which was a militant anthem on humanizing the immigration tactics in the U.S.A. The song was controversial, and its accompanying video rang true to many who saw it. The song received accolades from major media outlets around the country, while the video was nominated for 'Video Of The Year' at Premios Lo Nuestro. In 2014, La Santa Cecilia made their major label debut with 'Someday New' released on Universal. The first single, 'La Cumbia Morada,' combined infectious pop melodies with touches of cumbia. On March 27th of that same year, the band did something they never imagined - they performed at the legendary Vive Latino in front of thousands of screaming fans. Summer 2014 was a busy season for the band. They presented their politically-infused video for 'Strawberry Fields Forever' at the LULAC (League of United Latin American Citizens) luncheon in New York, accompanied by none other than First Lady Michelle Obama. La Marisoul had the honor of singing the national anthem to the over 1,500 Latino leaders in attendance. Later that summer, the band played the sold out Reventón festival for over 20,000 people. As if that wasn't enough, La Santa Cecilia hit the big screen. They recorded the song "Tu Vida Es Un Escenario" , which was included in the award winning film"Cantinflas" and collaborated with Gustavo Santaolalla on "The Apology Song" for the animated hit film "The Book of Life," directed by Mexican director Guillermo del Toro. The band is also highly synced, with songs appearing in popular TV shows like 'Weeds,' 'Entourage,' and 'The Bridge,' Marisoul was also featured as a guest performer on Pepe Aguilar's MTV Unplugged, which turned out to be the first Unplugged by a Ranchero artist.Pepe Aguilar later invited La Santa Cecilia on stage at the National Auditorium in Mexico. In 2015, the band started dropping hints about a new album. During the summer, they released 'I Won't Cry For You,' produced by multi Grammy award winning Sebastian Krys. The song plays with jazzy nuances, while juxtaposing it with traditional sounding accordion riffs and a tasteful pop melody. "Calaverita" was released that fall. The song is a tribute to the great Latin American tradition of "Day of the Dead," - in celebration and of those we've lost. The band ended the year with a momentous appearance on Late Night with Conan O' Brien, where they played the new single 'I Won't Cry For You.' More recently in January of 2016, the band played Jeff Buck's Todos Santos Festival in Baja California, only to be joined on stage by none other than Led Zeppelin's own John Paul Jones on electric mandolin for a special rendition of "La Morena". 'Buenaventura' the new album from La Santa Cecilia,' released on February 26th, 2016.

Advance $18.00

Day of show $22.00

Thursday, July 28th

Sister Sparrow & The Dirty Birds

Soul Rock & Dirty Funk From Brooklyn NY. 8:30 PM, Doors Open 8:00 PM show. TICKETS ON SALE THIS FRIDAY AT NOON. Moe's Alley welcomes back Sister Sparrow & The Dirty Birds. VIDEO- "Mama Knows". "fiery brass- and gospel-infused funk" – LA Times. "…stick-to-your-ribs style rock…" – Wall Street Journal. "Sister Sparrow, Arleigh Kincheloe's nom de disque, is a soul queen with a voice strong and raspy enough to compete with riffing horns and clipped funk beats." – Washington Post. "…frontwoman Arleigh Kincheloe has one of the biggest voices in the soul-funk business. Prepare to be blown away." – Baltimore Sun. "What do you get when you cross Amy Winehouse and Tina Turner with Mick Jagger…?" – Glamour. "Arleigh Kincheloe…presides over eight musicians with smoldering intensity, and her body language is as sly and stirring as her bluesy voice" – New Yorker. The Catskill Mountains hid rock 'n' roll's best kept secret for almost 18 years. Then in 2008, singer and songwriter Arleigh Kincheloe said goodbye to her hometown hideaway and moved to New York City to start Sister Sparrow & The Dirty Birds. In the years since, the group has performed more than 600 shows, released two full-length albums and an EP produced by Randy Jackson (American Idol), and enchanted tastemakers ranging from The Wall Street Journal and LA Times to Glamour, USA Today, and The New Yorker. They have shared the stage with such heavyweights as Gov't Mule, Dr. John, Trombone Shorty, The Avett Brothers, Counting Crows, and Galactic, and have turned audiences into believers through appearances on the festival circuit at Bonnaroo, Firefly, Hardly Strictly Bluegrass, Voodoo Music Experience and many more. On May 18th, the band unleashed their most rambunctious, raucous, and righteous recording to date in the form of The Weather Below, which features the band's roster of her brother, Jackson Kincheloe (harmonica), Sasha Brown (guitar), Josh Myers (bass), Phil Rodriguez (trumpet), and Brian Graham (saxophones), and Dan Boyden (drums). So, what is it about this "hard soul collective," as Arleigh so eloquently puts it, that has engendered such passion from both the press and the people? "It's loud, fun, and it's supposed to make you feel good," she declares. "That's the goal." Sister Sparrow & The Dirty Birds accomplish that goal tenfold with a saucy sonic brew of rock, blues, gospel, and soul. In order to perfect that signature amalgam, the band retreated to the iconic Bear Creek Studio (James Brown, Eric Clapton), just outside Seattle, WA. Locked in the studio for three weeks, they worked closely with producer Ryan Hadlock (The Lumineers, Vance Joy) and cooked up ten irresistible anthems. "In the past, we did every other record while we were still on the road," says Arleigh. "This time, we blocked out time to immerse ourselves in the recording process. We lived at the studio and worked for 15 hours a day. Ryan was everything I'd hoped for. He saw my vision and added his own flavor. Plus, the studio is so beautiful. We were in a barn in the woods, which was very reminiscent of the Catskill Mountains for me. I felt right at home." The group takes flight on the first single "Mama Knows." Bolstered by boisterous horns and bluesy grit, the track serves as a soulfully sweet ode to moms everywhere. "The idea for the chorus popped into my head when I was hanging out with my sister," Arleigh recalls. "We were thinking about our mom. She's a huge influence on why I sing. She was my role model. She sang too, and I'd attend her gigs as a little kid. She was so powerful and beautiful—just a queen in my eyes. On the flip side, she raised us to be really humble. I wanted to do something to show my appreciation to her and mothers like her everywhere." Then there's "Prison Cells," which swings from a bright verse into a wild chant that encourages living it up in the moment with the people who matter the most. "It's about getting in trouble with your best friends and letting the fun take over," she goes on. "We're definitely prone to do that in my family. We'll get into trouble, but we'll be singing and dancing all the way." Elsewhere on The Weather Below, "Disappear" flaunts a South American-style cinematic shine, while "Don't Be Jealous" points the spotlight on Arleigh's passionate pipes in between a harmonica swell. "That's The Dirty Birds anthem," she states. "It's the story of us on the road with me and a bunch of dudes and all of our trials and tribulations along the way. We're a crew, and we all have each other's backs. This is a family. That theme runs throughout everything." Ultimately, Sister Sparrow & The Dirty Birds stand poised to shake up rock 'n' roll all around the world. "This all stems back to why I loved performing and singing to begin with," Arleigh leaves off. "I want to make crowds happy and see them smile and dance. Singing brings me so much joy. I hope our music does the same for everyone." Band Members: rleigh Kincheloe – vocals Jackson Kincheloe – harmonica, Sasha Brown – guitar, Josh Myers – bass, Phil Rodriguez – trumpet, Brian Graham – saxophones, Dan Boyden – drums. More From the Press: "They may be from Brooklyn, but the fiery brass- and gospel-infused funk emanating from Sister Sparrow and the Dirty Birds is rooted in Memphis soul. Their rhythmic wheelhouse combines big-city grit and down-home sweetness with a little bit of Americana twang." – LA Times. "If you've had a hankering to get down and dirty with some funky old soul, then this nonet, featuring powerhouse vocalist Arleigh Kincheloe and Berklee grad Sasha Brown on guitar, may have just what you need" – Boston Globe. "'Band On The Verge'… the nine-person, horn-driven band prove that they can swagger as well as skank—and get bluesy and torchy when they need to." – Relix. "a seriously funky collective capable of bringing elements of deep soul, New Orleans funk, Stax/Memphis stylings and earthy R&B together in a manner that makes the sentient mammal want to shake it" – Buffalo News. "…rollicking blend of soul, funk and backwoods Americana rock 'n' roll, which draws even indifferent hipsters onto the dance floor." – New York Daily News. "'Make It Rain', Sister Sparrow & the Dirty Birds Funky horns and Arleigh Kincheloe's sultry, sassy vocals propel this track from new 'Pound of Dirt.'" – The Playlist: USA Today. "The forefront of soul/funk bands to be recognized" – MusicMarauders.com. "…this nine-piece soul-rock crew does red-hot and brassy '60's soul with a scraggly blues edge." – M Music & Musicians Magazine

Advance $12.00

Day of Show $15.00

Saturday, July 30th

Aphrodesia + Post St Rhythm Peddlers

Afrobeat Meets Hot Jazz For A Double Bill Dance Party. 9:00 PM, Doors Open 8:00 PM show. Afrobeat Favorites APHRODESIA return for a special double bill with POST ST RHYTHM PEDDLERS. It's been quite a ride for Aphrodesia since their birth in 2003: a pilgrimage to the legendary Shrine nightclub in Lagos, Nigeria in 2006, a cross-country voter-registration tour in a vegetable oil-powered bus in 2004 and accolades everywhere from National Public Radio to USA Today. Through it all the San Francisco-based 11-piece ensemble has won audiences over with an eclectic, unique sound- a blend of rich, female lead vocals and slamming horn-laden polyrhythmic funk that Global Rhythm Magazine called "a Pan-African mash-up." While the members of Aphrodesia are admirers of West African styles like afrobeat and Highlife- enough so that the group spent a month performing and living in Ghana in 2006, in the process journeying through Togo and Benin to Nigeria to perform at the Shrine with Femi Kuti- the group's sound has always included touches of funk, dub, Zimbabwean trance, hip-hop and global pop. The band's new studio album- "Precious Commodity," released in August of 2009 further solidifies their diverse sound. Birthed in 2003 in the backyard shack of bassist Ezra Gale, Aphrodesia quickly recorded "Shackrobeat Vol. 1", a disc heavily influenced by singer Lara Maykovich's experience living in Ghana and Zimbabwe which was picked as a top record of 2003 by the East Bay Express. The following year the politically outspoken group launched the "Just Vote Tour", a cross-country swing-state voter registration tour undertaken in the group's vegetable oil-powered bus that landed in New York City during the Republican National Convention. The group's second album, "Front Lines", was recorded soon after and featured the layered lead vocals of Maykovich and Maya Dorn, several bold originals penned by the group and eclectic guest performers ranging from Tom Waits sideman Ralph Carney to former Sierra Club president Adam Werbach. Featured on National Public Radio, the album was also ecstatically reviewed by outlets from Global Rhythm Magazine to the Village Voice. Meanwhile, the group's reputation as a show-stopping live act continued to spread. With a lineup that includes singers Mayokovich and Dorn, bassist Gale, guitarists David Sartore and Chris Mulhauser, the horns section of Henry Hung, Liz Larson, Mitch Marcus and Sylvain Carton, percussionist Paul Sonnabend and powerhouse drummer Jason Slota, Aphrodesia delivered stunning, high energy sets at the 2004 and 2005 High Sierra Music Festivals, the 2005 Earthdance Festival, the 2005 and 2006 Aspen Jazz Festival, the 2006 and 2007 Harmony Festival and many more. The group's near-constant touring saw them build a fan base all over the U.S., playing venues from San Francisco's Fillmore to New York City's S.O.B.'s, while opening slots for Maceo Parker, Steel Pulse, the String Cheese Incident, the Sierra Leone Refugee All-Stars, Konono no. 1 and several others broadened their reach even further. Aphrodesia's music carries with it a strong sense of social justice, and the band's commitment to social change extends offstage as well. Having headlined numerous benefits for causes ranging from AIDS prevention to Tsunami Relief to anti-Iraq War organizations, the group has also made a point of traveling on alternative fuels like biodiesel and recycled vegetable oil. It may be a small start, but the group believes that its actions, like its music, can have a huge effect.

Advance $9.00

Day of Show $12.00

Sunday, July 31st

Ana Popovic

Blues Favorite Returns Touring In Support Of Her Brand New 3 CD Set "Trilogy". 8:00 PM, Doors Open 7:00 PM show. Moe's Alley welcomes back Ana Popovic touring in support of her brand new 3 CD set TRILOGY. The award-winning, hard-touring, guitar slinger blends smoking electric funk and slide guitar, jazzy instrumentals and a tight blues groove with soulful, feminine vocals. Add to the mix her incredible stage presence, all of which makes her an irresistible force in the world of contemporary blues music. As the only female guitar-player Ana was added to the 2014 -'16 all star Experience Hendrix lineup; a nationwide tour celebrating the music and legacy of Jimi Hendrix w/ Buddy Guy, Eric Johnson, Zakk Wylde, Jonny Lang, Kenny Wayne Shepherd and many more world renown artists. She's nominated for five Blues Music Awards, appeared on the cover of Vintage Guitar and Guitar Player magazine. Her albums 'Can You Stand The Heat' and 'Unconditional' where Pick-Of-The-Week by USA Today and featured on NPR Music. Nearly all of Ana's albums made it the Top 5 of the Billboard Blues Charts and are being played regularly on US radio. Ana Popovic was born in Belgrade, Serbia (formerly Yugoslavia) and grew up in a warm family where music was very important. All throughout her youth, her father would invite friends over for nightly jam sessions. In this atmosphere, she quickly learned her father's impressive blues and soul record collection, grabbed his guitar and started playing at the age of fifteen. Since then, Ana has developed into an phenomenal guitarist/vocalist with a growing legion of fans throughout the world. Ana and her powerful band are tirelessly touring, playing major blues, jazz and rock festivals. She is endorsed by Fender, Ovation and DR strings. Ana has shared headlining stages with B.B. King, Buddy Guy, Joe Bonamassa, Gary Clark Jr., Jonny Lang and many others. When not on tour, she resides in Memphis, TN. 2016 In May Ana releases TRILOGY. Her most ambitious project yet. With TRILOGY Ana releases twenty-three blues, jazz, and funk tunes on three CD's. TRILOGY is produced by Grammy Award winner Warren Riker (Lauryn Hill, Carlos Santana), Grammy Award winner Tom Hambridge (Buddy Guy) and Delfeayo Marsalis, one of the top trombonists, composers and producers in jazz today. Guest appearances include Joe Bonamassa, Robert Randolph, Bernard Purdie (The Purdie Shuffle), Cody Dickinson (North Mississippi Allstars) and rapper Al Capone.

Advance $18.00

Day of Show $22.00

Thursday, August 4th

The SUBDUDES

An Evening With The Subdudes - Performing 2 Sets With No Opener. 8:00 PM, Doors Open 7:00 PM show. Moe's Alley proudly presents one of our favorite live acts THE SUBDUDES. This will be an early performance with doors opening at 7pm and show starting at 8pm. There will be no opener, just 2 sets of live music with The Subdudes! In 1987, four musicians got together for what they envisioned would be a one-time performance at Tipitina's in New Orleans. It was a night of mostly acoustic music - sparse instrumentation with a strong emphasis on songwriting and vocal harmonies. The show far exceeded expectations, and on that March night the subdudes were born. Nearly 10 years later, after releasing five critically acclaimed albums and building a hard-core cadre of fans through relentless touring, the subdudes called it quits. Spinoff projects ensued, as did the occasional reunion show. About five years later, three of the guys decided to get back together. They recruited some friends and hit the road for the rest of the decade before taking another break. And after 30 years, still nobody in the world sounds like them.

Advance $45.00

Day of Show $50.00

Wednesday, August 10th

New Breed Brass Band

New Breed Brass Band lives and breathes the culture of New Orleans, infusing funk, rock, jazz, and hip-hop into a custom-made enhancement of second-line brass band tradition. 8:30pm doors, 8:00pm show, Moe's Alley proudly presents the Santa Cruz debut of New Breed Brass Band from New Orleans. New Breed Brass Band lives and breathes the culture of New Orleans, infusing funk, rock, jazz, and hip-hop into a custom-made enhancement of second-line brass band tradition. VIDEO- New Breed At Bonaroo. "That's what we came up under," says snare-drummer Jenard Andrews of second line bands like the ReBirth, Dirty Dozen and Lil' Rascals Brass Bands. "Now we're trying to take that sound and bring in some new stuff and expand it. We bring outside influences like Earth Wind & Fire and Brass Construction, trying to interpret a different song for every genre, and make it all our own sound." With a founding core of five New Orleans natives, New Breed Brass Band made its street debut as a nine-man unit in November 2013 at the Nine Times Second Line. Since then, they have showcased their originality opening for such diverse bands as The Fray, Red Baraat, Dr. John, The Waterboys, and Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, as well as competing in the Red Bull Street Kings brass band competition in 2013. Most of the members have been playing music since they were toddlers and count such New Orleans legends as James "12" Andrews, Troy "Trombone Shorty" Andrews, Topsy Chapman, Karl Leblanc, and Bruce "Sun-pie" Barnes as family members. Honing their childhood experiences playing music with their families, and on through high school marching bands and concert ensembles, the nine members of New Breed are united to one cause: rocking each show and entertaining audiences to the maximum degree possible. The band's strong desire is to be the next heavyweight contender among internationally-known New Orleans brass bands. Whether performing in their hometown or on the road, New Breed will forever bring the vibe of the New Orleans second-line with them. "We can't wait," Andrews says of bringing the New Breed sound to stages and festivals around the world. "It's a new breed of music that we'll be bringing to our culture, and we hope to create a new sound for our city in the process." "These kids take the music and the ethos seriously. They get it. The way I see it, the future of the New Orleans brass band tradition is in their hands. I really believe that." - Troy "Trombone Shorty" Andrews "New Breed was amazing. The other young bands in NOLA seem to want to go the route of making it less raw, more polished. New Breed are super young and clearly want to work - they are as good as any brass band I've seen, and could be a ReBirth-level act soon if they stick with it." - Zach Ernst, Paramount Theater (Austin, TX) booker, internationally touring musician"If we need any replacement players, we get 'em from the New Breed Brass Band. The best teaching we can give is experience." - ReBirth Brass Band trombonist Stafford Agee

Advance $10.00

Day of Show $15.00

Saturday, August 20th

B-side Players

Afro-Latin-Reggae-Cumbia-Funk Dance Party. 9:00 PM, Doors Open 8:00 PM show. Moe's Alley welcomes back the B-SIDE PLAYERS for a Saturday night Afro-Latin-Reggae-Cumbia-Funk Dance Party! B-Side Players 2014 Video "Rocky Road". 2013 Video "New Uprising". The B-Side Players are an 8-piece band taking part in a new movement in popular music. A band that honors the international cross-pollination that has always made music the universal language. They use any beat that catches their ear, regardless of geography or genre, to create a compelling, horndriven, polyrhythmic groove. They continue exploring the multifaceted grooves of Latin America and the Caribbean, incorporating the sounds of Cuba, Jamaica, Mexico and Brazil with the funk, rock, jazz and hip-hop rhythms of their homeland, dropping bits of Cumbia, Salsa, gritty street Samba, Son Montuno, Jarocho and Boogalo into the mix. The B-Side Players have been laying down their own inimitable latin global funk since they came together in 1994. Their incendiary live shows have defined them as local favorites with 10 San Diego Music awards. Meanwhile their albums showcase a band with restless musical intelligence, effortlessly blending genres to fashion their own forward looking, latin flavored soul music. As an nine piece band the players are known for igniting crowds with their fierce rhythms and uplifting message of unity and consciousness. Meanwhile always keeping their focus on the political climate of the world and nation. The B-Side Players are a living and breathing cultural art experience for the mind body and soul.

Advance $16.00

Day of Show $20.00

Friday, August 26th

Universal Language

Reunion Concert Featuring Original Members Moshe, Pacha, Ethan Sanchez, Jon Cavanaugh, Nate Fredrick, Gianni & Renzo & Staiano 9:00pm doors, 8:00pm show,One of Santa Cruz's most beloved world music acts UNIVERSAL LANGUAGE will be getting back together after an 8 year hiatus for 1 night only featuring original members: Moshe Vilozny- Singer/Songwriter, David "Pacha" Alvarez - Congas/Percussion/Vocals, Ethan Sanchez- Bass, Jon Cavanaugh- Trumpet & Vocals, Nate Fredrick- Drums, Gianni Staiano- Organ/Keys, Renzo Staiano- Guitar, Why did we decide to get back together on this particular night you might ask? Because David "Pacha" Alvarez is visiting Santa Cruz for the first time in 8 years...how could we not do this? Grab your tickets in advance and don't miss the party! UNIVERSAL LANGUAGE is a musical melting pot, fusing traditional Latin music with grooves from all parts of the globe. With strong roots in Mexico, Israel, Italy and California, UL has united realizing a pan cultural vision of unity through music. Their driving dance oriented music is created to get the people moving and keep them on their feet till sunrise. Positive lyrics, blistering Latin percussion, Cuban tres, kickin' bass and Andean Charango create a rich cultural landscape that gives Universal's music an energy that is all their own and that always leaves the crowd inspired. UL has shared the stage with Ozomatli, Damian Marley, Alpha Blondy, Blackalicious, Spearhead, Midnite, Steve Kimock and many more. Watch for Universal Language's debut album, "Revolucion", out now!

Advance $9.00

Day of show $12.00

Saturday, August 27th

The Medflys

Monterey's Legendary Rock Band Comes Together For A Rare Reunion Show 9:00pm doors, 8:00pm show, The Medflys burst out of the Monterey music scene in the early 1980s like an invasion of the pesky little fruit flies they were playfully named after. Mixing sunny pop, upbeat ska and crunchy New Wave rock with quirky and over-the-top theatrics, the five-piece band hit it big with regional FM-radio hits such the teen-angst rebellion of "Belfast", the upbeat dance groove of "Compulsive," the California love-in vibes of "State of Mine" and the clever, spaghetti western-inspired, "Don't Mess With The Mayor," a tribute Clint Eastwood's 1986 mayoral campaign in Carmel. The Medflys were regularly named "Best Local Band" by local radio stations and news publications during its heyday. They regularly sold outs shows from Monterey to San Jose and were featured often on local and regional television, did a PSA for "Rock the Vote," and appeared in national TV commercials. Throughout the '80's, The Medflys often toured with The Tubes and had multiple opening slots with high-profile artists such as Joan Jett, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Oingo Boingo, Huey Lewis & the News, Violent Femmes, Night Ranger, Greg Kihn and Toto. But they might be best remembered for the song "Don't Mess With The Mayor," which hit the airwaves just as Clint Eastwood was becoming mayor of Carmel in 1986, The "Mayor" video, which featured the band members in Old West duds, was directed by renowned Monterey documentary directory Steve Rosen and garnered local, national and international airplay. The clever and witty song even became a popular drive-time favorite at several radio stations across the U.S. It was another 35 years before the band would play again, in 2010 with two thrilling reunion shows in Monterey and Santa Cruz, and in 2015, with a sold-out show at Planet Gemini in Monterey. That 2015 show was to raise funds and awareness for Savannah's Song for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, the renowned pediatric treatment and research facility focused on children's catastrophic diseases. Savannah was the daughter of Medflys' guitarist Evans who lost her battle with cancer in 2015 at the tender age of 13. "A Medflys show is like a family reunion. Everyone there is connected to everyone else and has been for decades. It feels really good," says saxophonist Alex Stewart. The 2016 version of the band features founding members Carl Christ on vocals, Robbie Evans on guitar, Dale Kurokawa, guitar/keyboards, and saxophonist/keyboardist Alex Stewart, who will be joined by veteran drummer John Brearton, long-time honorary Medfly, Tom Ayres, on bass and trumpet and Simon Stewart on bass and keyboards. For interviews with or more information on the band, contact Robbie Evans or Dale Kurokawa. For media inquiries, contact Mac McDonald. Photos, both current and vintage, are available on request.

Advance $12.00

Day of show $15.00

Friday, September 2nd

Luciano

Reggae Royalty Returns. 9:00 PM, Doors Open 8:00 PM show, + special guests Reggae Angels & DJ Spleece. Moe's Alley presents the return of Reggae great LUCIANO. Special guests Reggae Angels & DJ Spleece support. With the release of his landmark CD "Where There Is Life" in 1995, Luciano emerged as one of the most important reggae singers in decades and the greatest hope for roots reggae's survival in the digital dancehall era. Since that much acclaimed release, Luciano's music has been consistently praised for imparting sentiments of spiritual salvation, Rastafarian edification and African repatriation. In these troubled times, Luciano's engaging baritone resonates like a divinely ordained instrument possessing the power to comfort and, seemingly, the informed biblical authority to warn of impending destruction. While many of his so called "conscious" contemporaries have faltered by recording songs that glorify wanton sex and random violence as a means of topping the charts, Luciano has held steadfast to enriching Rasta principles; these positive lyrical themes have justifiably earned him the title of The Messenger. However, the humble singer also refers to himself as the child of a king which is the title of his latest CD on VP Records. "We are all children of the Most High God and as a Rastaman, I acknowledge that I am a child of Emperor Hailie Selassie I because all of his teachings are in my songs," he explains. "I am a child of king and I just want my family and my fans to receive the blessings that God has given through me as a messenger and an instrument of peace." Produced by Byron Murray of Kingston's In the Streetz Productions, "Child of a King" is one of The Messenger's most esteemed works, mixing classic cover versions and original tunes, recent hits and brand new boom shots. Luciano estimates this to be his 40th album; the prolific artist releases three (full length) CDs per year. "I have so much music and messages, that I cannot be holding it inside of me," he declares. "From a management point of view, they would like to see me cooling it out for a while but if a bird doesn't sing, tell me if that bird is happy? Right now we are at a point of rivalry and all matter of evil in the world and my duty as a messenger is to run the music out there like the River Jordan." Music has run deeply throughout Luciano's life. Born Jepther Washington McClymont on October 20, 1964 in Davey Town, a small community located atop a hilly region on the road to Mandeville in the central Jamaican parish of Manchester. Luciano was raised in the Adventist church and sang in the church choir. His father Arthur passed away when Luciano was just 11 years old. He left behind a guitar he had built and as Luciano recalls, "through those early years, I fell in love with the guitar and started to learn to play, which I realized was showing love and respect to my father." His beloved mother Sophie, who struggled to raise Luciano and his eight siblings, is also a gifted singer. As he grew older, Luciano sang in local youth clubs and took the mic at local sound system dances. In the late 80s, he arrived in Jamaica's bustling capital Kingston hoping to transform his musical talent into a flourishing career. He sold oranges in the marketplace as means of initially supporting himself but when a drought restricted that year's orange crop, he returned to Mandeville. However, the music beckoned so it wasn't long before Luciano went back to Kingston, this time with even greater determination to succeed. He worked as an upholsterer by day and at night he sought recording opportunities in various studios. It was suggested by one of his mentors, Homer Harris, that the name Jepther McClymont did not have the requisite charisma to propel the career of an aspiring entertainer; Jepther was (professionally) re-christened as Luciano, a name that parallels his extraordinary vocal skills alongside those of the world-renowned operatic tenor Luciano Pavarotti. The name was also somewhat prophetic: "Luci" means bearer of light and within a few years Luciano would shine as one of the brightest lights in the Jamaican music constellation. As the 1990s progressed, Luciano recorded for a few producers but failed to make any significant headway until he met Freddie McGregor. "Shake It Up" (a cover version of Cheryl Lyn's RnB hit) recorded for Freddie's Big Ship label became a number one hit in the UK in 1993 and was featured on Luciano's first release for VP Records "After All". But due to Freddie's hectic touring commitments, he was unable to devote sufficient time to developing Luciano's singer/songwriting skills. However the singer soon found an ideal collaborator in producer Phillip "Fatis" Burell of Xterminator Records whose releases were characterized by Rastafari imbued themes and intricately crafted roots rock riddims played by some of Jamaica's finest musicians. Fatis, who also took on the managerial role in Luciano's career, brought the gifted singer's talents to the musical forefront on cuts like "Poor and Simple", "Chant Out" and "One Way Ticket", the latter regarded as one of the finest repatriation anthems ever written and a song that continually summons enthusiastic responses in Luciano's breathtaking live performances. With the release of "Where There Is Life" for Island Jamaica/Xterminator, Luciano's deeply devotional yet accessible lyrics and the beautiful melodies of "Its Me Again Jah", "Your World and Mine" and "Lord Give Me Strength" coupled with Fatis' contemporary one drop riddims catapulted the singer to the top of the reggae charts, toppling (at least temporarily) the decade long reign of deejays rapping x-rated lyrics over digitized dancehall beats. Luciano and Fatis (alongside preeminent musicians such as saxophonist Dean Frasier and drummer Sly Dunbar) created several exceptional releases including 1997's "The Messenger" and 1999's "Sweep Over My Soul". Although they parted ways in 1999 due to artistic differences within the Xterminator camp, Luciano consistently acknowledges Fatis' essential role in establishing the foundation for his far-reaching success. The Messenger has since ascended to even greater musical heights with "A New Day" (2001) "Serve Jah" (2003), "Serious Times" (2004), all for VP Records, and his latest effort, Child of A King", the crowning glory of his exalted career thus far. The set opens with the acoustic "Remember When" as Luciano reflects on ancient kingdoms of Africa and the inherited regal identity that is present in all of us. Heads of government are chided for their war mongering on "Watch What You're Doing" and "This One's For The Leaders" recorded on Don Corleone's massive Drop Leaf riddim. He confronts a deceiving lover on "Can't Take No More", cautions against the fleeting gratification of materialism on "Silver and Gold" (voiced on Steven "Gibbo" Gibbs' Hard Times riddim) and sternly warns gun men to turn their lives around on "Brother Man":"Mr. man rinsing your steel, taking another life how do you feel?/One day I know your time will come, better take this word of advice and put down your gun." "Child of a King" also offers an eclectic range of cover versions from Nina Simone's empowering anthem of African identity "Young Gifted and Black" to Cat Stevens' mid 1970s unity plea "Peace Train" and UK easy-listening superstar Roger Whitaker's desire for a better planet on "New World in the Morning". Luciano's stunning, heartfelt interpretation of these disparate tunes offers an incomparable presentation of the roots rock icon's diversified skills. "I came out of roots and culture as a reggae singer and have proven to people that I can fit into any genre of music," he proclaims. "I sing reggae, gospel, roots, I will sing rock too but always keeping my message clean, spiritual and cultural. Over the years I have listened to international artists like Stevie Wonder, Ray Charles, (CandW legend) Jim Reeves, all these great brothers so I have learned to appreci-love other works. There are no barriers in music, although I am well known as a reggae culture singer, I have an international message so I cannot leave it just to reggae people. I have to extend it to people of all walks of life." Spoken like a truly benevolent messenger and the globally minded child of a king.

Advance $25.00

Day of Show $30.00

Sunday, September 11th

Las Cafeteras

$15.00

A Remix Of Traditional Son Jarocho Sounds - Afro- Mexican Rhythms, Zapateado & Inspiring Lyrics 8:00pm doors, 7:00pm show, LIMITED DISCOUNTED EARLY BIRD TICKETS!, Moe's Alley welcomes Las Cafeteras for a very intimate performance. This show will sell out so buy your tickets early! For the next few days tickets are only $15, once they are gone the price goes up. Las Cafeteras create a vibrant musical fusion with a unique East LA sound and a community-focused political message. Their Afro-Mexican rhythms, zapateado & inspiring lyrics tell stories of a community who is looking for love & fights for justice in the concrete jungle of Los Angeles. A remix of traditional Son Jarocho sounds, LAS CAFETERAS add Afro-Caribbean marimbol and cajón, poetry in English and Spanglish, and instruments like jarana, requinto, a donkey jawbone and a wooden platform called the Tarima.

Moe's Alley

Calendar of Events

Wednesday, April 27th

Natural Vibrations

Thursday, April 28th

Niki J Crawford + The Afrofunk Experience

Friday, April 29th

Diego's Umbrella + Zach Deputy

Saturday, April 30th

Dead Winter Carpenters, The Sam Chase & Rin Tin Tiger

Sunday, May 1st

Peter Harper + Asher

Tuesday, May 3rd

Sweetwater String Band + One Grass, Two Grass, Joe Kaplow

Thursday, May 5th

Dumpstaphunk

Friday, May 6th

Karl Denson's Tiny Universe

Saturday, May 7th

Edge Of The West + Lacy J. Dalton

Sunday, May 8th

Henry Chadwick & Battlesnake + Jesse Daniel & The Slow Learners

Thursday, May 12th

Roddy Radiation (Lead Guitarist Of The Specials) + Tingly (Mike Mattingly of Skankin' Pickle)

Friday, May 13th

The Record Company

Saturday, May 14th

7 Come 11

Sunday, May 15th

Curtis Salgado

Matt Andersen & the Bona Fide + Lee Harvey Osmond

Wednesday, May 18th

Mipso + Steep Ravine

Thursday, May 19th

King Jammy

Friday, May 20th

New Riders Of The Purple Sage

Saturday, May 21st

SambaDa

Tuesday, May 24th

King Gizzard And The Lizzard Wizard

Friday, May 27th

The English Beat

Saturday, May 28th

The English Beat

Monday, May 30th

Gondwana + Fayuca

Wednesday, June 1st

World's Finest + Abalone Grey

Thursday, June 2nd

Royal Jelly Jive + The Soul Of John Black

Friday, June 3rd

The Itals

Saturday, June 4th

The David Nelson Band

Wednesday, June 22nd

Atash

Thursday, June 23rd

Dave Alvin & Phil Alvin With The Guilty Ones

Saturday, June 25th

Israel Vibration + Roots Radics

Thursday, July 7th

SIERRA LEONE'S REFUGEE ALL-STARS + Black Nature Band

Friday, July 8th

The Coffis Brothers + McCoy Tyler

Friday, July 15th

Los Amigos Invisibles

Saturday, July 16th

Melvin Seals & JGB

Wednesday, July 20th

Boogat + Bang Data

Thursday, July 21st

Grateful Bluegrass Boys + Achilles Wheel

Saturday, July 23rd

La Santa Cecilia

Thursday, July 28th

Sister Sparrow & The Dirty Birds

Saturday, July 30th

Aphrodesia + Post St Rhythm Peddlers

Sunday, July 31st