THE PEACOAT PROJECT, THURSDAY MARCH 19 @8PM, $10
THE PEACOAT PROJECT: The Peacoat Project is a modern jazz ensemble built on original compositions and the talents of seasoned improvisers. Led by Peter Koht, the 8 piece band features Santa Cruz based stalwarts including Will Bates (Sambadá) on drums, bassist Chris Soriano (El Sol), tenor saxophonist Liz Torres (Aza), and trombonist Jordan Zell (La Familia). Together they bring a wealth of experience across jazz, soul, and Latin traditions into a sound that is unmistakably their own. With intricate horn lines and fearless improvisation, The Peacoat Project pushes jazz ahead without losing its soul—or its groove.
MICHAEL GAITHER AND HIS NEW BEST FRIENDS, SATURDAY MARCH 21 FROM 4 TO 6PM ON THE GARDEN STAGE, FREE SHOW!
Michael Gaither is an award-winning songwriter, a local radio DJ and the music writer for The Santa Cruz Sentinel. Many of his tunes have won or "runner'd up" several times in the Great American Song Contest.
GRATEFUL SUNDAY With MATT HARTLE And The HARTLE GOLD BAND, 6 to 9pm ON THE GARDEN STAGE, $15 AT THE DOOR
Grateful Sundays at the Crepe Place take place in the beautiful garden. Full meals are available, and the Garden Bar is open for service!
For the past number of years, Matt has hosted the highly successful series "Grateful Sundays". This ongoing residency has attracted the finest musicians in the Grateful Dead music genre. While constantly in-demand as a stage and session player throughout the Bay Area, Hartle is also a founding member and musical linchpin of no less than four, Santa Cruz-based bands: Shady Groove - the funky blues, jazz-rock and R&B outfit (a Bay Area favorite going strong since 2001); Painted Mandolin - an acoustic quartet featuring multi-instrumental wizard Joe Craven, of The Jerry Garcia Acoustic Band and David Grisman Quintet; Spirit of 76 - a premier collection of Grateful Dead players, focusing on the jazzy, mid-'70's incarnation of the Dead; and Matt is also renowned as the firebrand lead guitarist of The China Cats, the highly respected Grateful Dead tribute act, a Bay Area favorite.
OPEN MIC! MONDAY MARCH 23, 7-9pm, FREE!
Wanna be a rock star? It all starts here…
Sign up to participate at 6:30pm. Open Mic is from 7 to 9pm.
JAZZ ON THE ROCKS 5:30 PM -7:30 PM ON THE GARDEN STAGE, FREE!
FREE
Dinner, Drinks, & Live Music at The Crepe Place.
Please come join us for the twice a month jazz dinner night at the Crepe Place in Santa Cruz, CA. Join us on the back Patio for two hours of live jazz music performed by local professional musicians to accompany your food and libations.
If you would like to bring an instrument and sit in please contact a house band member ahead of time and be respectful of these Jam Guidelines:
1. The bandstand is a space for communication, respect, and deep learning.
2. As musicians we are here for the music AND the audience, they are our patrons, be sensitive to their listening needs.
3. If there are numerous horn players on stage, please keep solos short to allow room for other musicians to perform.
4. When playing with a vocalist, keep your solos to 1-2 choruses maximum.
5. No I-Real/Real Books on stage. The goal is to come together and play songs we know. Please learn the changes at home and use your ears on stage, not your eyes.
KUUMBWA JAZZ HONOR BAND, WEDNESDAY MARCH 25 FROM 5 TO 7PM, FREE EVENT ON THE GARDEN STAGE!
The Kuumbwa Jazz Honor Band showcases some of the most talented student musicians from Santa Cruz County and the Central Coast region. During weekly rehearsals, the band studies advanced jazz theory, arranging, and improvisation, all while learning valuable life skills in teamwork and critical thinking. Band-members gain vital experience performing together, culminating in a special headline performance at the Kuumbwa Jazz Center.
The Honor Band is directed by David McGillicuddy, a graduate of Aptos High, Cabrillo College, and UCSC. He has been teaching music since 1997 and his jazz guitar YouTube lessons have garnered nearly a quarter-million views. A longtime member of the Kuumbwa community, he attended his first Kuumbwa show in 1985 and has been volunteering since 1988.
MUSIC OF THE WORLD With DROR and AVRAHAM SINAI, THURSDAY MARCH 26, 5 to 7pm ON THE GARDEN STAGE
Dror and Avraham Sinai
Dror and son Avraham, will take us on a Journey...
Singing and Chanting songs of the middle east and north Africa from the 10th century until today.
Including songs in Hebrew, Arabic, Yemen, Aramaic, Ladino, Turkish, Moroccan, Tunisia...
We'll explore the poetry of multicultural attitude and experiences, songs of spirit, of aw, songs of thanks, songs of love and hope...
Dror and Avraham will accompany their singing with variety of percussion instruments including a Doumbek, Darbuka (an hourglass middle eastern drum also known as Tabla or Darbuka) Tar, Duff & Bendir (a Mideastern & N. African Frame drums) a Riq (middle eastern tambourine), Cajon (box drum) bells, shakers and rattles...
Voice and Drums.
Dror's engaging personality and powerful energy, great stories, wacky sense of humor, soulful singing, haunting rhythms and entertaining delivery will make it a beautiful journey, very comforting, exciting and healing.
An experience to treasure for a life time...
REDWOOD RECORDS PRESENTS: THE TOP CHEFS, FULL COURT PRESS, THURSDAY MARCH 26 @8PM, $10
THE TOP CHEFS: The Top Chefs are a powerhouse live band based in San Francisco. Known for their dynamic performances that blend hip-hop, jazz, R&B, and soul, the group transforms stages with a sound that is both forward-thinking and rooted in tradition.
The Top Chefs have performed across the USA, UK, Europe, and South America, playing at renowned venues such as SF MOMA, Golden Gate Park, The Midway, Oakland Museum, Chelsea Music Hall, Mercury Lounge, Barbican Hall in London, and the Vienna Hofburg Royal Palace. Their versatility allows them to command festival stages, jazz clubs, corporate events, family-friendly gatherings, and weddings alike, offering tailored live experiences ranging from full-band productions to intimate acoustic sets.
Their lineup features an all-star cast of musicians, primarily Shogun (bass), Loveberry (guitar), Jabari (drums), Des (keys), Will Shannon (trombone), TJ (saxophone), and vocalists Sunday & ASH, with Afterthought driving the band as emcee and frontman. The Top Chefs often perform Afterthought’s original music alongside covers of R&B, soul, and early 2000s classics. They have also backed legendary Bay Area artists including B-Legit, Dru Down, Nef The Pharaoh, Mistah F.A.B, and Cellski.
More than just a backing band, The Top Chefs create an immersive live experience that pushes musical boundaries while bringing audiences together. In 2026, you can look forward to their debut album and their viral new content series, Stoop Sessions, where they perform live with a variety of artists in the San Francisco streets.
FULL COURT PRESS:
Full Court Press (@fullcourtpress.band) • Instagram photos and videos
EDGE OF THE WEST, FRIDAY MARCH 27 @8PM, $10
EDGE OF THE WEST: Edge Of The West is not just an ensemble, it's an adventure - a group quest. In the last few years the band of intrepid explorers has toured relentlessly, playing wild and remote destinations, as well as in big-city markets throughout the Western US. They have featured players such as Lacy J Dalton, Buddy Cage, Robbie Hoddinott, Barry Sless and Jerry Miller, they've opened shows for Lukas Nelson, David Nelson Band, Hard Working Americans, the Wood Bros, etc, and have played myriad festivals and club dates including top Bay Area venues such as Terrapin Crossroads, The Catalyst and Sweetwater Music Hall. And the band has honored their heroes with special tribute shows to the Grateful Dead, New Riders of the Purple Sage, and a tour commemorating the great Gram Parsons - including a party for Phil Kaufman the Road Mangler - AT the notorious and sacred Joshua Tree Inn.
Across the canyon we hear drums in the distance. Notes From the underground drift like smoke signals to a strange yet familiar place, where new friends and old come together for good times - the Edge of the West
Guitar, vocals: Jim Lewin (Todd Snider, Great American Taxi, Lacy J Dalton)
Bass, vocals: Bill Laymon (Jefferson Starship, New Riders of the Purple Sage, David Nelson Band)
Keys, vocals: Ken Margolis (The Choir, Bo Diddly)
Drums, vocals: Marty Carpenter (Freddy Fender, Lacy J Dalton)
* we also often feature these additional members of the band:
Vocals, guitar: Diana Z
Pedal Steel: Charlie Joe Wallace (Johnny Paycheck, Cake)
GRATEFUL SUNDAY With MATT HARTLE And The HARTLE GOLD BAND, 6 to 9pm ON THE GARDEN STAGE, $15 AT THE DOOR
Grateful Sundays at the Crepe Place take place in the beautiful garden. Full meals are available, and the Garden Bar is open for service!
For the past number of years, Matt has hosted the highly successful series "Grateful Sundays". This ongoing residency has attracted the finest musicians in the Grateful Dead music genre. While constantly in-demand as a stage and session player throughout the Bay Area, Hartle is also a founding member and musical linchpin of no less than four, Santa Cruz-based bands: Shady Groove - the funky blues, jazz-rock and R&B outfit (a Bay Area favorite going strong since 2001); Painted Mandolin - an acoustic quartet featuring multi-instrumental wizard Joe Craven, of The Jerry Garcia Acoustic Band and David Grisman Quintet; Spirit of 76 - a premier collection of Grateful Dead players, focusing on the jazzy, mid-'70's incarnation of the Dead; and Matt is also renowned as the firebrand lead guitarist of The China Cats, the highly respected Grateful Dead tribute act, a Bay Area favorite.
DIG IT! FUNK NIGHT AT THE CREPE PLACE WITH LOUD FLOWER! TUESDAY FROM 8PM TO MIDNIGHT, $10
We are excited to bring back the LEGENDARY FUNK NIGHT to THE CREPE PLACE! Join us on TUESDAY nights for a boogie down dance party from 8pm until midnight!
PARTIAL TO ZERO, WEDNESDAY APRIL 1 FROM 5:30 TO 7:30PM, ON THE GARDEN STAGE, FREE SHOW!
PARTIAL TO ZERO:
https://www.instagram.com/p/DUEHiuiEdCB/?igsh=NjZiM2M3MzIxNA==
BIONIC SQUID, THURSDAY APRIL 2 @8PM, $10
BIONIC SQUID: If Funkadelic and Thievery Corporation had a bastard love child that grew up listening to Pink Floyd, their new favorite band would be Bionic Squid. With this funky instrumental quartet, every show is a psychedelic dance party. Soaring guitars and keyboards swim through a cascading soundscape over driving grooves from drums and bass. With a mix of original jams and covers, Bionic Squid will take you on a voyage to the depths and keep you dancing like an octopus hailing a taxi.
Bionic Squid is Pete Novembre, Mike Johnson, Josh Salesin, and Bret Bailey.
MIDHEAVEN, JOE KAPLOW, GIVE ME A DOLLAR, FRIDAY APRIL 3 @8PM, $10
MIDHEAVEN: Midheaven is the lovechild of Andy DeLuca & Sarah Eiseman’s romantic and creative partnership.
They initially found each other after becoming fans of the others’ art. Sarah was making an impact in the Polaroid and film-photography community while simultaneously working in healthcare and taking care of the elderly; Andy was heavily involved in the music industry as a touring photographer, visual artist, and video director. While Andy was on tour with 5SOS in 2018, he had a day off in NYC where Sarah had been living at the time. They officially met in person and instantly started creating art together. They had become inseparable from that moment on, making all kinds of art anytime they were in the same room. Sarah had grown up with a gift for poetry and singing, and Andy had grown up playing drums in bands and recording instrumental demos. When they discovered they could make music together, it was the perfect fit. Sarah would primarily contribute lyrics and melody, where Andy would focus on the instrumentals and production side of things.
Having a shared taste of 80s and 90s music, they found themselves initially writing a blend of shoegaze/dreampop, alternative, and new wave-inspired pop songs. Even though they began writing in 2018, it wouldn’t be until 2023 when they would release their first piece of music as they felt they needed to further craft their songwriting and music production abilities.
They released their first self-produced debut single “Heaven” in November of 2023 while living in Los Angeles. “Heaven” is a heavy-hitting + ethereal blend of shoegaze and new wave, combining 90s dreampop/shoegaze elements (My Bloody Valentine, Lush, Slowdive) with the elements of bigger 80s new wave production (Depeche Mode, Kate Bush, Echo & The Bunnymen, Tears For Fears). The result is a full and lush arrangement where the vocals sit on top of a gritty bass riff that drives the song, and guitars and synths that flood every remaining corner of the mix.
Because Andy + Sarah have spent years as visual artists and directing music videos together, they were able to shoot/edit their own music video, create their own single art, and take their own press photos — all while living in the comfort of their own home, being deeply in love, and spending time with their beloved shih-tzu, Pebbles.
Sunday April 5, 6-9pm in the Garden Grateful Sundays with The Hartle Gold Band $15 at the door
Grateful Sundays at the Crepe Place take place in the beautiful garden. Full meals are available, and the Garden Bar is open for service!
For the past number of years, Matt has hosted the highly successful series "Grateful Sundays". This ongoing residency has attracted the finest musicians in the Grateful Dead music genre. While constantly in-demand as a stage and session player throughout the Bay Area, Hartle is also a founding member and musical linchpin of no less than four, Santa Cruz-based bands: Shady Groove - the funky blues, jazz-rock and R&B outfit (a Bay Area favorite going strong since 2001); Painted Mandolin - an acoustic quartet featuring multi-instrumental wizard Joe Craven, of The Jerry Garcia Acoustic Band and David Grisman Quintet; Spirit of 76 - a premier collection of Grateful Dead players, focusing on the jazzy, mid-'70's incarnation of the Dead; and Matt is also renowned as the firebrand lead guitarist of The China Cats, the highly respected Grateful Dead tribute act, a Bay Area favorite.
SCIENCE ON TAP, 6PM IN THE GARDEN, FREE EVENT!
Science on Tap
Monthly on the FIRST MONDAY of the month.
Come one, come all to the “science café” in Santa Cruz. This event is designed to connect the Santa Cruz community to the latest research happening just up the hill at U.C. Santa Cruz. It is not an exclusive “club meeting” for scientists and science majors - we aim to appeal to all audiences! So come join us at the Crepe Place, grab a beer, relax, and hear some interesting and cutting-edge science that’s happening near you!
Science on Tap is based on the Nova and Sigma Xi "science café" model and is generally on the FIRST MONDAY of every month.
OPEN MIC, MONDAY APRIL 6, 7 TO 9PM, 6:30PM SIGN UP, FREE!
Wanna be a rock star? It all starts here…
Sign up for an Open Mic slot at 6:30pm.
Open Mic runs from 7 to 9pm.
JAZZ THE DOG, In the Garden, 5:30 to 7:30pm, FREE SHOW!
FREE - 5:30 to 7:30
Rick Zeek - Guitar, Vocals
Patti Maxine - Lap Steel, Vocals
Rhan Wilson - Guitar, Vocals, Looping
Jazz, the dog. - Mascot, best friend.
DIG IT! FUNK NIGHT AT THE CREPE PLACE WITH FUNK FACE! 8PM UNTIL MIDNIGHT, $10
We are excited to bring back the LEGENDARY FUNK NIGHT to THE CREPE PLACE! Join us on TUESDAY nights for a boogie down dance party from 8pm until midnight!
BRIAN FITZGERALD TRIO, WEDNESDAY APRIL 8, 5:30 TO 7:30PM IN THE GARDEN, FREE!
Please call The Crepe Place at 831-429-6994 to make a reservation in the garden.
BRIAN FITZGERALD TRIO
Led by guitarist Brian Fitzgerald, the Brian Fitzgerald Trio is an engaging, multi-layered musical convergence that features Fitzgerald on 7- string guitar, Mike Anderson on bass and Bruce Handloff on drums. While each member is an accomplished jazz musician and top-flight soloist, this trio uses remarkable, seemingly telepathic communication skills to create thoughtful, sophisticated arrangements that feature a modern, captivating and unique sound that provides solid melodic footing, while leaving room for spontaneous, creativity. With a band requirement of having fun, combined with few, if any musical boundaries, all mixed into an open, improvisational jazz format, is a sure recipe to expect the unexpected. A listener will be treated to anything from hard swinging traditional jazz arrangements to re-imagined classic pop tunes often disguised in clever, thought-provoking arrangements. Performances include Kuumbwa Jazz Center, Monterey Jazz Festival, Abbott Square Market, Cabrillo Music Festival. KPIG Radio, Los Gatos Fiesta de Artes, Santa Cruz Jazz Festival, Scotts Valley Art & Wine Festival, Capitola Art & Wine Festival, Artichoke Festival, Begonia Festival, Jazz On the Wharf and others
GRATEFUL SUNDAY With MATT HARTLE And The HARTLE GOLD BAND, 6 to 9pm IN THE GARDEN, $15 AT THE DOOR
Grateful Sundays at the Crepe Place take place in the beautiful garden. Full meals are available, and the Garden Bar is open for service!
For the past number of years, Matt has hosted the highly successful series "Grateful Sundays". This ongoing residency has attracted the finest musicians in the Grateful Dead music genre. While constantly in-demand as a stage and session player throughout the Bay Area, Hartle is also a founding member and musical linchpin of no less than four, Santa Cruz-based bands: Shady Groove - the funky blues, jazz-rock and R&B outfit (a Bay Area favorite going strong since 2001); Painted Mandolin - an acoustic quartet featuring multi-instrumental wizard Joe Craven, of The Jerry Garcia Acoustic Band and David Grisman Quintet; Spirit of 76 - a premier collection of Grateful Dead players, focusing on the jazzy, mid-'70's incarnation of the Dead; and Matt is also renowned as the firebrand lead guitarist of The China Cats, the highly respected Grateful Dead tribute act, a Bay Area favorite.
JAZZ ON THE ROCKS 5:30 PM -7:30 PM FREE
FREE
Dinner, Drinks, & Live Music at The Crepe Place.
Please come join us for the inaugural monthly jazz dinner night at the Crepe Place in Santa Cruz, CA. Join us on the back Patio for two hours of live jazz music performed by local professional musicians to accompany your food and libations.
If you would like to bring an instrument and sit in please contact a house band member ahead of time and be respectful of these Jam Guidelines:
1. The bandstand is a space for communication, respect, and deep learning.
2. As musicians we are here for the music AND the audience, they are our patrons, be sensitive to their listening needs.
3. If there are numerous horn players on stage, please keep solos short to allow room for other musicians to perform.
4. When playing with a vocalist, keep your solos to 1-2 choruses maximum.
5. No I-Real/Real Books on stage. The goal is to come together and play songs we know. Please learn the changes at home and use your ears on stage, not your eyes.
DIG IT! FUNK NIGHT AT THE CREPEPLACE FEATURING MAK NOVA! TUESDAY APRIL 14 @8PM, $10!
We are excited to bring back the LEGENDARY FUNK NIGHT to THE CREPE PLACE! Join us on TUESDAY nights for a boogie down dance party from 8pm until midnight!
HENRY WARDE BAND, WEDNESDAY APRIL 15 @8P, $10
HENRY WARDE BAND: There is something special about California Country Music, it's always had a distinct sound and that is true about Hank & Ella’s Band. At live shows people always leave feeling uplifted by their high energy performances, and great stage presence. The band is known for making a dance party happen anywhere they play.
KAY CRAIG, THURSDAY APRIL 16, 5:30 TO 7:30PM ON THE GARDEN STAGE, FREE SHOW!
Kay Craig - Life, Love ... and Everything That Hurts:
Singer-Songwriter, Literary Author, and Americana Performing Artist. Kay spotlights her style on bringing the audience a unique blend of adult oriented originals mixed with not-so-well-known covers of classic and current influences. Her lyrics take you on a humanistic view of our journey through life. After performing for the last 20 years in Tokyo and Okinawa, Japan, she has recently relocated to the vibrant music scene in Santa Cruz, CA.
REDWOOD RECORDS PRESENTS: JULIAN NEVER, FRIDAY APRIL 17 @8PM, $10
JULIAN NEVER: "Julian Never’s jangle, all-chiming balladry power pop poetry is one of our favourite revelations in the past few months. [...]Full of heart and heat, Julian Never’s vocal is equipped with a turn of phrase reminding us a little of Jack Tatum of Wild Nothing but not afraid to bear his heart, allowing the vocal range to arch upwards into a delightful upper register." -Monorail Music
THE JENNY O'LEARY QUARTET, SATURDAY APRIL 18 FROM 5 TO 7PM ON THE GARDEN STAGE, FREE SHOW!
The Jenny O'Leary Quartet is led by the swinging and soulful jazz vocalist Jenny O'Leary. She is backed by a trio of professional jazz musicians. Jenny sings a wide repertoire of standards, bossa novas, ballads, swing and pop.
GRATEFUL SUNDAY With MATT HARTLE And The HARTLE GOLD BAND, 6 to 9pm IN THE GARDEN, $15 AT THE DOOR
Grateful Sundays at the Crepe Place take place in the beautiful garden. Full meals are available, and the Garden Bar is open for service!
For the past number of years, Matt has hosted the highly successful series "Grateful Sundays". This ongoing residency has attracted the finest musicians in the Grateful Dead music genre. While constantly in-demand as a stage and session player throughout the Bay Area, Hartle is also a founding member and musical linchpin of no less than four, Santa Cruz-based bands: Shady Groove - the funky blues, jazz-rock and R&B outfit (a Bay Area favorite going strong since 2001); Painted Mandolin - an acoustic quartet featuring multi-instrumental wizard Joe Craven, of The Jerry Garcia Acoustic Band and David Grisman Quintet; Spirit of 76 - a premier collection of Grateful Dead players, focusing on the jazzy, mid-'70's incarnation of the Dead; and Matt is also renowned as the firebrand lead guitarist of The China Cats, the highly respected Grateful Dead tribute act, a Bay Area favorite.
OPEN MIC! MONDAY APRIL 20, 7-9pm, FREE!
Wanna be a rock star? It all starts here…
Sign up for an Open Mic slot at 6:30pm.
Open Mic runs from 7 to 9pm.
DIG IT! FUNK NIGHT AT THE CREPE PLACE WITH TRIANNA FERUZA AND THE HEAVY HITTERS! TUESDAY APRIL 21 AT 8PM, $10
We are excited to bring back the LEGENDARY FUNK NIGHT to THE CREPE PLACE! Join us on TUESDAY nights for a boogie down dance party from 8pm until midnight!
KUUMBWA JAZZ HONOR BAND, WEDNESDAY APRIL 22 FROM 5 TO 7PM, FREE EVENT ON THE GARDEN STAGE!
The Kuumbwa Jazz Honor Band showcases some of the most talented student musicians from Santa Cruz County and the Central Coast region. During weekly rehearsals, the band studies advanced jazz theory, arranging, and improvisation, all while learning valuable life skills in teamwork and critical thinking. Band-members gain vital experience performing together, culminating in a special headline performance at the Kuumbwa Jazz Center.
The Honor Band is directed by David McGillicuddy, a graduate of Aptos High, Cabrillo College, and UCSC. He has been teaching music since 1997 and his jazz guitar YouTube lessons have garnered nearly a quarter-million views. A longtime member of the Kuumbwa community, he attended his first Kuumbwa show in 1985 and has been volunteering since 1988.
RUNAWAY RICOCHET, WHAT’S GOOD, SAD SNACK, JUST DANDY, WEDNESDAY APRIL 22 @8PM, $10
Sad Snack, voted best ska band 2024 by 924 Gilman, initially went viral with a ska Mountain Goats "No Children" cover (playing it together at the Warfield).
The group released their debut full length with Sell The Heart Records (Tsunami Bomb).
Runaway Ricochet released their anticipated ska LP "Diminishing Returns." Their heavy, mathy, progressive approach to ska have gained them growing following.
BURNOUT, THE APRICOTS, DOG EYES, THURSDAY APRIL 23 @8PM, $10
BURNOUT:
THE APRICOTS: Described as a "sonic heatwave", The Apricots are an indie-folk-rock band from Portland, OR that thrives on vocal harmony. At their core, they're just a group of best friends that have found purpose in this band. They've shared the stage with Blitzen Trapper and Drugdealer and their songs will make you swoon one minute and groove the next.
The Apricots (@apricotsband) • Instagram photos and videos
DOG EYES:
GUS BALDWIN AND THE SKETCH, JONNY MANAK AND THE DEPRESSIVES, SATURDAY APRIL 25 @8PM, $10
GUS BALDWIN AND THE SKETCH: Since leaving Acid Carousel in 2021, Gus quickly made his mark on the Austin live scene, performing as a singer/songwriter, one-man garage band, and with his band The Sketch. Through his own GetWithIt! Records, he’s released a steady stream of music, establishing himself as a dynamic force in Texas rock. ‘The Sketch’ was recorded in just one day at Studio 22 with engineer Joey Oaxaca (White Reaper, Starcrawler), capturing the raw energy of the band.
The Sketch | Gus Baldwin and The Sketch | Gus Baldwin
JONNY MANAK AND THE DEPRESSIVES: Bred and spread from San Jose, CA , JM and D came to life in 2006 as a twisted combination of garage punk n' roll with influences from the 50's, 60's and 70's. Jonny has played guitar, bass or drums in bands such as The Cliftons, Clay Wheels, Fang, Texas Thieves, The Forgotten, The Odd Numbers, The Resistoleros. Longtime bassist, Neil "Endy" Young (The Ific, Fuzz Attack, Hot Laundry) and battery mate drummer Chris Estep (Motel Drive, The Supressors, Sparklejet) bring the sonic boom. The Depressives are known for ripping through a full speed ahead, non-stop set of 2 minute bangers and power surf ditties. JM and D have played shows throughout the the Western US and Europe and have shared the stage with such bands as The Adicts, The Darts, Giuda, DOA, The Schizophonics, Agent Orange, Walter Lure's LAMF, Dick Dale, The BellRays. Since 2007, they've released 6 full length albums on CD, Vinyl, Cassette and Digitally. Their songs have been used in skateboard, snowboard and surfing videos, Verizon vcast videos, as well as song placements in TV shows aired on MTV (Viva La Bam, Home Wreckers, Nitro Circus, Fantasy Factory, Ridiculousness, Maui Fever, The Dudesons), Fuel TV (Vans Protech Pool Party) and Fuse TV.
Jonny Manak and The Depressives Official Website
GRATEFUL SUNDAY With MATT HARTLE And The HARTLE GOLD BAND, 6 to 9pm ON THE GARDEN STAGE, $15 AT THE DOOR
Grateful Sundays at the Crepe Place take place in the beautiful garden. Full meals are available, and the Garden Bar is open for service!
For the past number of years, Matt has hosted the highly successful series "Grateful Sundays". This ongoing residency has attracted the finest musicians in the Grateful Dead music genre. While constantly in-demand as a stage and session player throughout the Bay Area, Hartle is also a founding member and musical linchpin of no less than four, Santa Cruz-based bands: Shady Groove - the funky blues, jazz-rock and R&B outfit (a Bay Area favorite going strong since 2001); Painted Mandolin - an acoustic quartet featuring multi-instrumental wizard Joe Craven, of The Jerry Garcia Acoustic Band and David Grisman Quintet; Spirit of 76 - a premier collection of Grateful Dead players, focusing on the jazzy, mid-'70's incarnation of the Dead; and Matt is also renowned as the firebrand lead guitarist of The China Cats, the highly respected Grateful Dead tribute act, a Bay Area favorite.
DIG IT! FUNK NIGHT WITH SUN HOP FAT! TUESDAY APRIL 28 @8PM, $10
SUN HOP FAT: For years Sun Hop Fat has been at the forefront of introducing the unique sounds of Ethiopian Jazz. Their music blends the rhythms of traditional American funk and jazz with harmonies and melodies from East Africa. Originally the band focused on covering arrangements from the “golden era” of Ethiopian Jazz, but now their sound includes many original compositions. This all-star band includes standout musicians from other popular San Francisco Bay Area groups.
Sun Hop Fat has developed a solid following throughout Northern California by playing a number of clubs and festivals. The ability of the band to captivate sit down jazz crowds as well as steal the spotlight in prime festival slots, encouraging crowds to get up and dance, makes the group flexible in its appeal and garners support from diverse audiences.
“…a steady wall of extraordinary moving sound and beats…” – San Francisco Examiner
Homepage | Sun Hop Fat
CAYUGA JAZZ BAND, WEDNESDAY APRIL 29 FROM 5:30 TO 7:30 ON THE GARDEN STAGE, FREE SHOW!
Cayuga Jazz band plays swing, jazz standards, blues, be-bop, bossa novas and other American improvisational style music rooted in the 1940s 50s and 60s. Front line trumpet, tenor and alto saxophones play arranged parts supported by bass, guitar and sometimes piano.
The Cayuga Jazz Band is:
Greg Morrison - guitar
Jeffrey Werner - bass
Len Moore - trumpet
Marcia Quackenbush - Alto & Tenor Sax
Raymond Mendoza - guitar
Steve Gray - alto sax
SEXFACES, EL NORMBO, WEDNESDAY APRIL 29 @8PM, $10
SEXFACES: Combining the droney madness of Velvet Underground and wordsmith of The Fall, grounded in the punk attack and sense of humor of the Replacements and The Ramones, Sexfaces plays full-noise zero-fluff music for bad people…
SEXFACES (@sexxfaces) • Instagram photos and videos
EL NORMBO:
GRATEFUL SUNDAY With MATT HARTLE And The HARTLE GOLD BAND, 6 to 9pm IN THE GARDEN, $15 AT THE DOOR
Grateful Sundays at the Crepe Place take place in the beautiful garden. Full meals are available, and the Garden Bar is open for service!
For the past number of years, Matt has hosted the highly successful series "Grateful Sundays". This ongoing residency has attracted the finest musicians in the Grateful Dead music genre. While constantly in-demand as a stage and session player throughout the Bay Area, Hartle is also a founding member and musical linchpin of no less than four, Santa Cruz-based bands: Shady Groove - the funky blues, jazz-rock and R&B outfit (a Bay Area favorite going strong since 2001); Painted Mandolin - an acoustic quartet featuring multi-instrumental wizard Joe Craven, of The Jerry Garcia Acoustic Band and David Grisman Quintet; Spirit of 76 - a premier collection of Grateful Dead players, focusing on the jazzy, mid-'70's incarnation of the Dead; and Matt is also renowned as the firebrand lead guitarist of The China Cats, the highly respected Grateful Dead tribute act, a Bay Area favorite.
DISASTROID, NOISE CLINIC, THURSDAY MAY 7 @8PM, $10
DISASTROID: San Francisco's Disastroid makes heavy music that isn't boring. Blending the vibes of 90s grunge with modern stoner, noise, and math rock, Disastroid sounds something like a lost band from the Amphetamine Reptile back-catalogue -- a mashup of odd, unpredictable time changes, sludgy riffs, and soulful vocals.
In 2024 Disastroid released their second album, “Garden Creatures", on Heavy Psych Sounds. Produced by Billy Anderson (Sleep, Melvins, Swans, Mr. Bungle, Neurosis), it trades some of the raw, angular vibe of their last outing, “Mortal Fools", for darker, moody textures and a denser, more layered heavy sound.
NOISE CLINIC:
GRATEFUL SUNDAY WITH MATT HARTLE AND THE HARTLE GOLD BAND 6-9pm in the Garden, $15 at the door
Grateful Sundays at the Crepe Place take place in the beautiful garden. Full meals are available, and the Garden Bar is open for service!
For the past number of years, Matt has hosted the highly successful series "Grateful Sundays". This ongoing residency has attracted the finest musicians in the Grateful Dead music genre. While constantly in-demand as a stage and session player throughout the Bay Area, Hartle is also a founding member and musical linchpin of no less than four, Santa Cruz-based bands: Shady Groove - the funky blues, jazz-rock and R&B outfit (a Bay Area favorite going strong since 2001); Painted Mandolin - an acoustic quartet featuring multi-instrumental wizard Joe Craven, of The Jerry Garcia Acoustic Band and David Grisman Quintet; Spirit of 76 - a premier collection of Grateful Dead players, focusing on the jazzy, mid-'70's incarnation of the Dead; and Matt is also renowned as the firebrand lead guitarist of The China Cats, the highly respected Grateful Dead tribute act, a Bay Area favorite.
DIG IT! FUNK NIGHT AT THE CREPE PLACE WITH MAK NOVA! TUESDAY MAY 12 FROM 8PM TO MIDNIGHT, $10
We are excited to bring back the LEGENDARY FUNK NIGHT to THE CREPE PLACE! Join us on TUESDAY nights for a boogie down dance party from 8pm until midnight!
GRATEFUL SUNDAY With MATT HARTLE And The HARTLE GOLD BAND, 6 to 9pm IN THE GARDEN, $15 AT THE DOOR
Grateful Sundays at the Crepe Place take place in the beautiful garden. Full meals are available, and the Garden Bar is open for service!
For the past number of years, Matt has hosted the highly successful series "Grateful Sundays". This ongoing residency has attracted the finest musicians in the Grateful Dead music genre. While constantly in-demand as a stage and session player throughout the Bay Area, Hartle is also a founding member and musical linchpin of no less than four, Santa Cruz-based bands: Shady Groove - the funky blues, jazz-rock and R&B outfit (a Bay Area favorite going strong since 2001); Painted Mandolin - an acoustic quartet featuring multi-instrumental wizard Joe Craven, of The Jerry Garcia Acoustic Band and David Grisman Quintet; Spirit of 76 - a premier collection of Grateful Dead players, focusing on the jazzy, mid-'70's incarnation of the Dead; and Matt is also renowned as the firebrand lead guitarist of The China Cats, the highly respected Grateful Dead tribute act, a Bay Area favorite.
DIG IT! FUNK NIGHT AT THE CREPE PLACE WITH TRIANNA FERUZA AND THE HEAVY HITTERS! TUESDAY MAY 19 AT 8PM, $10
We are excited to bring back the LEGENDARY FUNK NIGHT to THE CREPE PLACE! Join us on TUESDAY nights for a boogie down dance party from 8pm until midnight!
MICHAEL MARTYN, PATTI MAXINE & GOOD MEDICINE, FRIDAY MAY 22, 5:30 TO 7:30PM IN THE GARDEN! FREE!
The most well known unknown musicians in Santa Cruz!!! Michael Martyn is a 50 year veteran of the Santa Cruz acoustic folk scene!
Michael Martyn: Guitar and Vocals
Patti Maxine: Pedal Steel and Vocals
Fuzzy John Oxendine: Drums
Keith Graves: Bass
Jim Greinner: Drums
Paul Sadoff: Guitar
THE GOOD BAD, SATURDAY MAY 23 @8PM, $10
THE GOOD BAD: The Good Bad was formed in San Francisco, California in 2010 by Aaron Lanes and Thom Beneudici. Over the past decade and a half, The Good Bad have shared stages with The Brothers Comatose, The Lil Smokies, Front Country, Della Mae, toured Europe, played prestigious festivals like Winter Wondergrass and performed at countless weddings, parties and events across the Bay Area and beyond. The Good Bad utilizes original songwriting while continually employing traditional and contemporary bluegrass in addition to pop and Top 40 favorites. Three part harmonies, instrumental virtuosity and high octane string music are hallmarks of The Good Bad. The five piece band currently includes Aaron Lanes (mandolin, guitar, vocals), Peter Domenici (banjo, vocals), Tom Conneely (guitar, vocals), Gabe Wheaton (fiddle, vocals) and Noah Zisser (bass, vocals).
GRATEFUL SUNDAY With MATT HARTLE And The HARTLE GOLD BAND, 6 to 9pm IN THE GARDEN, $15 AT THE DOOR
Grateful Sundays at the Crepe Place take place in the beautiful garden. Full meals are available, and the Garden Bar is open for service!
For the past number of years, Matt has hosted the highly successful series "Grateful Sundays". This ongoing residency has attracted the finest musicians in the Grateful Dead music genre. While constantly in-demand as a stage and session player throughout the Bay Area, Hartle is also a founding member and musical linchpin of no less than four, Santa Cruz-based bands: Shady Groove - the funky blues, jazz-rock and R&B outfit (a Bay Area favorite going strong since 2001); Painted Mandolin - an acoustic quartet featuring multi-instrumental wizard Joe Craven, of The Jerry Garcia Acoustic Band and David Grisman Quintet; Spirit of 76 - a premier collection of Grateful Dead players, focusing on the jazzy, mid-'70's incarnation of the Dead; and Matt is also renowned as the firebrand lead guitarist of The China Cats, the highly respected Grateful Dead tribute act, a Bay Area favorite.
DIG IT! FUNK NIGHT WITH SUN HOP FAT! TUESDAY MAY 26 @8PM, $10
SUN HOP FAT: For years Sun Hop Fat has been at the forefront of introducing the unique sounds of Ethiopian Jazz. Their music blends the rhythms of traditional American funk and jazz with harmonies and melodies from East Africa. Originally the band focused on covering arrangements from the “golden era” of Ethiopian Jazz, but now their sound includes many original compositions. This all-star band includes standout musicians from other popular San Francisco Bay Area groups.
Sun Hop Fat has developed a solid following throughout Northern California by playing a number of clubs and festivals. The ability of the band to captivate sit down jazz crowds as well as steal the spotlight in prime festival slots, encouraging crowds to get up and dance, makes the group flexible in its appeal and garners support from diverse audiences.
“…a steady wall of extraordinary moving sound and beats…” – San Francisco Examiner
Homepage | Sun Hop Fat
GRATEFUL SUNDAY With MATT HARTLE And The HARTLE GOLD BAND, 6 to 9pm ON THE GARDEN STAGE, $15 AT THE DOOR
Grateful Sundays at the Crepe Place take place in the beautiful garden. Full meals are available, and the Garden Bar is open for service!
For the past number of years, Matt has hosted the highly successful series "Grateful Sundays". This ongoing residency has attracted the finest musicians in the Grateful Dead music genre. While constantly in-demand as a stage and session player throughout the Bay Area, Hartle is also a founding member and musical linchpin of no less than four, Santa Cruz-based bands: Shady Groove - the funky blues, jazz-rock and R&B outfit (a Bay Area favorite going strong since 2001); Painted Mandolin - an acoustic quartet featuring multi-instrumental wizard Joe Craven, of The Jerry Garcia Acoustic Band and David Grisman Quintet; Spirit of 76 - a premier collection of Grateful Dead players, focusing on the jazzy, mid-'70's incarnation of the Dead; and Matt is also renowned as the firebrand lead guitarist of The China Cats, the highly respected Grateful Dead tribute act, a Bay Area favorite.
dadweed + THE DIAL PAINTERS, THURSDAY JUNE 4 @8PM, $15
dadweed: dadweed is an acoustic trio based out of Portland, OR. Reimagining pickin' and thumpin' by blending elements of jazz/folk/pop/R&B within a traditional bluegrass lens, their sets explore a wide variety of styles and dynamics – with a focus on improvisation – showcasing both covers and originals.
Leaning heavily into three-part vocal harmonies and virtuosic instrumentation, dadweed strives to redefine what's possible in bluegrass. The trio has toured throughout the west coast since 2024, appearing at festivals, venues, and private events. dadweed released their first EP in Summer 2024 and will continue to release new singles throughout 2025.
THE DIAL PAINTERS: Dial Painters are an acoustic songwriting trio based in Santa Cruz, California formed by father-and-son musicians Don Mackessy (banjo, guitar),Leland Mackessy (mandolin, guitar), and Jeff Kissell on upright bass.
They perform original compositions with carefully crafted lyrics and melodic sensibilities drawing from the bluegrass tradition. Their poetry carries themes of love and loss shaped by personal experience and cultural observation. The band name references both Frank Zappa’s quote that, “(music) is a game - you have a piece of time that you get to decorate,” and the tendency of industry to blind itself to the suffering of those artisans laboring to turn it's gears.
ADAM SPRYE, WEDNESDAY JULY 15 @8PM, $10
ADAM SPRYE: Since the release of his first EP in 2017, Adam Spry has proven himself to be a seasoned songwriter, fusing earnest lyricism with nostalgic compositions. “This is folky indie pop/rock, vulnerable yet powerful, with atmospheric arrangements and engaging vocals.” - Add To Wantlist Garnering comparisons to Emitt Rhodes, Fruit Bats and Hiss Golden Messenger, Spry’s songs embrace the waves of uncertainty that inevitably crash into us all, while simultaneously providing a reminder that the storm shall pass.
Adam Spry has been a mainstay of the Bay Area music scene, sharing the stage with artists such as Crash Test Dummies, The Franklin Electric, Rayland Baxter and The Mother Hips. Spry’s most recent output, the apocalyptic indie-folk-rock EP “Hotel Of The Dead” was recorded at Itinerant Home in Oakland, CA, Washateria Studios in Portland, OR, The Sound Store in Santa Cruz, CA and at home in Daly City, CA.
Other releases include “Chipping Away” (2024), “Painting By Numbers” (2024), “Slightly Off Kilter” (2023), “Bonanza” (2020) and “One Dimensional” (2017).
Spry has performed, recorded and toured with various projects in the Bay Area and beyond; including Heaven’s Club (Shiv Mehra of Deafheaven), Grace Leer (American Idol Season 18 Top 10), Catch Prichard, The Free Key Choir, Tom Conneely & Birds of Paradise, Kalinders, The Live Oaks and more.
EPK — Adam Spry
SILVER LINING SERENADERS, FREE GARDEN SHOW, 5 TO 7PM
SILVER LINING SERENADERS: "A vibrant musical ensemble based in New Orleans, they embrace the city's active trad jazz scene with a repertoire heavy on vintage jazz, swing, and Western swing. This collective of passionate musicians, anchored by violinist Ella Thomasine and guitarist Scott Stobbe, are popular along the Frenchmen Street corridor and beyond, capturing the essence of New Orleans' musical legacy by blending infectious rhythms, soulful melodies, and a jubilant atmosphere that inspires listeners and dancers."
EMPIRE GRADE, CARABEZA, PARFAIT, SEAN TAYLOR MORGAN, WEDNESDAY MARCH 18 @8PM, $10
EMPIRE GRADE: Empire Grade is a four-piece rock band from Santa Cruz, CA. Blending different eras and genres of rock together, Empire Grade's style is both reminiscent and fresh. The group originated with rhythm section William Crick (drums) and Neville Gruhler (bass). They met guitarist and pianist Nick Sax, set up a jam, and had instant musical chemistry. The three musicians immediately set about arranging and writing songs, and playing shows across the Santa Cruz area. The band played as a three-piece until meeting vocalist Charlie Vail. Charlie's first session with the band made one thing apparent: Vail was here to stay. The band has since played numerous shows at multiple venues across the UCSC college scene, DIY venues, organized a SoCal tour, and played the legendary Rainbow Bar & Grill on Hollywood's Sunset Strip. Find their singles "Get out of the Way" and "Power Trippin" on all music platforms.
CARABEZA:
BRIAN FITZGERALD TRIO, WEDNESDAY MARCH 18 FROM 5:30 TO 7:30PM, FREE SHOW ON THE GARDEN STAGE!
Please call The Crepe Place at 831-429-6994 to make a reservation in the garden.
BRIAN FITZGERALD TRIO
Led by guitarist Brian Fitzgerald, the Brian Fitzgerald Trio is an engaging, multi-layered musical convergence that features Fitzgerald on 7- string guitar, Mike Anderson on bass and Bruce Handloff on drums. While each member is an accomplished jazz musician and top-flight soloist, this trio uses remarkable, seemingly telepathic communication skills to create thoughtful, sophisticated arrangements that feature a modern, captivating and unique sound that provides solid melodic footing, while leaving room for spontaneous, creativity. With a band requirement of having fun, combined with few, if any musical boundaries, all mixed into an open, improvisational jazz format, is a sure recipe to expect the unexpected. A listener will be treated to anything from hard swinging traditional jazz arrangements to re-imagined classic pop tunes often disguised in clever, thought-provoking arrangements. Performances include Kuumbwa Jazz Center, Monterey Jazz Festival, Abbott Square Market, Cabrillo Music Festival. KPIG Radio, Los Gatos Fiesta de Artes, Santa Cruz Jazz Festival, Scotts Valley Art & Wine Festival, Capitola Art & Wine Festival, Artichoke Festival, Begonia Festival, Jazz On the Wharf and others.
DIG IT! FUNK NIGHT AT THE CREPE PLACE WITH TRIANNA FERUZA AND THE HEAVY HITTERS! TUESDAY MARCH 17 AT 8PM, $10
We are excited to bring back the LEGENDARY FUNK NIGHT to THE CREPE PLACE! Join us on TUESDAY nights for a boogie down dance party from 8pm until midnight!
GRATEFUL SUNDAY With MATT HARTLE And The HARTLE GOLD BAND, 6 to 9pm ON THE GARDEN STAGE, $15 AT THE DOOR
Grateful Sundays at the Crepe Place take place in the beautiful garden. Full meals are available, and the Garden Bar is open for service!
For the past number of years, Matt has hosted the highly successful series "Grateful Sundays". This ongoing residency has attracted the finest musicians in the Grateful Dead music genre. While constantly in-demand as a stage and session player throughout the Bay Area, Hartle is also a founding member and musical linchpin of no less than four, Santa Cruz-based bands: Shady Groove - the funky blues, jazz-rock and R&B outfit (a Bay Area favorite going strong since 2001); Painted Mandolin - an acoustic quartet featuring multi-instrumental wizard Joe Craven, of The Jerry Garcia Acoustic Band and David Grisman Quintet; Spirit of 76 - a premier collection of Grateful Dead players, focusing on the jazzy, mid-'70's incarnation of the Dead; and Matt is also renowned as the firebrand lead guitarist of The China Cats, the highly respected Grateful Dead tribute act, a Bay Area favorite.
SQUIRRELS OF WISDOM, SATURDAY MARCH 14, 5 TO 7PM ON THE GARDEN STAGE, FREE SHOW!
SQUIRRELS OF WISDOM: Squirrels of Wisdom was formed when four women came together to perform at a homegrown music festival in 2018. They had such a good time that they’ve been playing together ever since. Their scurry of Squirrels has now grown to six and they’re having more fun than ever! With each band member contributing song ideas, they play an eclectic mix of original songs and rocking covers. The Squirrels of Wisdom are in it for the fun of it and they’ll put a smile on your face and a shake in your tail!
MICHAEL MARTYN, PATTI MAXINE & GOOD MEDICINE, MICHAEL MARTYN’S 76TH BIRTHDAY! FRIDAY MARCH 13, 5:30 TO 7:30PM IN THE GARDEN! FREE!
The most well known unknown musicians in Santa Cruz!!! Michael Martyn is a 50 year veteran of the Santa Cruz acoustic folk scene!
Michael Martyn: Guitar and Vocals
Patti Maxine: Pedal Steel and Vocals
Fuzzy John Oxendine: Drums
Keith Graves: Bass
Jim Greinner: Drums
Paul Sadoff: Guitar
STORYTELLERS SERIES FEATURING KAY CRAIG AND RICK ZEEK, ALISON STEELE, THURSDAY MARCH 12 @7PM ON THE BAR STAGE, FREE EVENT!
KAY CRAIG - is a Singer-Songwriter, Literary Author, and Americana Performing Artist. Kay spotlights her style on bringing the audience a unique blend of adult oriented originals mixed with not-so-well-known covers of classic and current influences. Her lyrics take you on a humanistic view of our journey through life. After performing for the last 20 years in Tokyo and Okinawa, Japan, she has recently relocated to the vibrant music scene in Santa Cruz, CA.
https://www.broadjam.com/kaycraig.com
RICK ZEEK – an accomplished Singer-Songwriter, Rick Zeek has been a fixture in the Santa Cruz area acoustic music scene for many years, most often appearing with his partner, Rhan Wilson, in one of the several groups they formed over the years. You can find Rick playing his acoustic guitar and singing his unique renditions of well-loved Americana and country covers plus his own heartfelt originals, with his latest band Jazz the Dog with Rhan and Patti Maxine.
ALISON STEELE – from the Blue Ridge/Allegany to the Santa Cruz Mountains, Alison Steele brings her songs of Life and Living wherever she performs. A talented singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Alison embodies the true essence of East-to-West Coast Americana in spirit, song, and soul. Alison performs in many local West Coast venues and anchors the talented trio Sugar By The Pound with Cristy Alyosi and Erin Valdivia.
https://www.instagram.com/alisonsteelemountainliving
https://www.instagram.com/sugarbythepound
JAZZ ON THE ROCKS 5:30 PM -7:30 PM FREE
FREE
Dinner, Drinks, & Live Music at The Crepe Place.
Please come join us for the inaugural monthly jazz dinner night at the Crepe Place in Santa Cruz, CA. Join us on the back Patio for two hours of live jazz music performed by local professional musicians to accompany your food and libations.
If you would like to bring an instrument and sit in please contact a house band member ahead of time and be respectful of these Jam Guidelines:
1. The bandstand is a space for communication, respect, and deep learning.
2. As musicians we are here for the music AND the audience, they are our patrons, be sensitive to their listening needs.
3. If there are numerous horn players on stage, please keep solos short to allow room for other musicians to perform.
4. When playing with a vocalist, keep your solos to 1-2 choruses maximum.
5. No I-Real/Real Books on stage. The goal is to come together and play songs we know. Please learn the changes at home and use your ears on stage, not your eyes.
ALEX LUCERO (SOLO), HONEY DISPOSITION, SUNDAY MARCH 8 @8PM, $10
ALEX LUCERO: Based in Santa Cruz, CA, The Alex Lucero Band is a dynamic Soul/Americana touring act known for its blend of grit, groove, and honest songwriting. The band's magnetic stage presence is centered on the undeniable chemistry between powerhouse vocalist and multi-instrumentalist Alex Lucero and his wife, Justina. This rich musicianship and captivating sound have resonated with audiences globally, evidenced by over 115,000 monthly listeners on Spotify and numerous accolades.
Distinguished by their electrifying live performances, over the past year, they have toured both Europe and the East and West Coasts of the United States, appearing at legendary venues such as The Bitter End, Saratoga Winery, and Stephens Talkhouse, while headlining Americana festivals internationally and consistently selling out performances in their hometown.
With a genre-spanning style that moves seamlessly from slow burning soul ballads to boot-stomping Americana, The Alex Lucero Band is an unforgettable addition to any lineup, guaranteed to stop you in your tracks and invite the listener into a shared moment that is impossible to ignore.
HONEY DISPOSITION: Honey Disposition, the passion project of singer/songwriters Elizabeth Boaz and Alex Michels, is a San Francisco based band rooted in the profound connection of friendship and a shared passion for music. Despite their contrasting musical upbringings, with Alex immersing himself in classical trumpet and rock & roll guitar and Elizabeth exploring the realms of musical theater from an early age, the two artists discovered common ground in their shared dedication to original songwriting. Their paths crossed in 2018, and it became evident that their collaboration held the potential for something remarkable. In the years that followed, Honey Disposition evolved into an iconic duo — with a rotating assortment of fun musical guests! — committed to making a meaningful impact on both local and global communities through their music. Elizabeth's perceptive lyrics and distinctive vocal arrangements seamlessly blend with Alex's catchy melodies and soulful trumpet playing, creating a signature sound that resonates with authenticity. Pulling from genres such as folk, jazz, rock, and pop, their original music and cover song selections appeal to a wide range of listeners. This dynamic duo extends their influence beyond the stage, recording their original music in their home studio, leading educational music camps and masterclasses, and touring frequently all around the United States. Their commitment to spreading joy and empowerment is evident in every note they compose and every stage they grace. As Honey Disposition continues to shape the musical landscape, Elizabeth Boaz and Alex Michels stand as a testament to the transformative power of collaboration, proving that the convergence of diverse backgrounds can give rise to a harmonious and impactful artistic journey.
ALEX LUCERO:
HARD TO HANDLE, FREE MUSIC IN THE PANHANDLE, GOLDEN GATE PARK @OAK AND ASHBURY, SUNDAY MARCH 8 FROM 2PM TO 6PM, IT’S FREE BECAUSE IT’S YOURS!!!
Hello Friends!
Join us for an afternoon of FREE MUSIC in the Panhandle of Golden Gate Park, just like the boys did it back in the day!
Location: Golden Gate Park Panhandle between Oak and Fell, Ashbury and Masonic. Please take public transportation to arrive. There is little to no street parking in this area.
Date and Time: Sunday March 8 (weather permitting) from 2pm to 6pm.
Schedule of events:
2 to 3pm: The China Cats
3:30 to 4:30pm: Danny’s Live Dead
5 to 6pm: Danny’s Live Dead
Please do not bring items for sale.
It’s free because it’s yours.
THE CREPE PLACE AND NO-BRAINER PRODUCTIONS PRESENTS: WINTER WARMER FESTIVAL, SATURDAY MARCH 7 FROM 2-8PM AT BRET HARTE HALL (ROARING CAMP RAILROADS) IN FELTON
The Winter Warmer Festival, a cozy, community-centered winter event.
Inside Bret Harte Opera Hall, situated within Roaring Camp Railroads, a celebration featuring genre-spanning live performances, comfort food vendors, local craft beer and coffee, artisan shopping, a lounge and kids’ area, and more, all designed to warm the community during winter’s chill.
Rooted in the vibrant San Lorenzo Valley and hosted by Roaring Camp Railroads. Founded by local organizer Andrew Myers, the festival brings together music lovers, artists, foodies, and families under one festive roof.
More info and tickets HERE!
BUFFALO BLUES TRIO, FREE BRUNCH SHOW ON THE GARDEN STAGE, SATURDAY MARCH 7 FROM 11AM TO 2PM
Santa Cruz Mountains locals Michele Murphy, Diane Bock, and Ramon Marc Butler share a love of the blues. The spark for their group, the Buffalo Blues Trio, was struck in 2018 when Michele and a girlfriend went to see the Tony Award-nominated Broadway musical, A Night With Janis Joplin at the Santa Cruz Civic. “I was on the edge of my seat with tears running down my face at the story of Janis’ life,” Michele recalls. She approached her friend Ramon, an experienced slide guitar player and former bandmate from the band Sleepless Nights, about putting together a group that would pay homage to Janis’ raw, soulful sound and other female singer-songwriters who influenced the blues. Then Michele met jazz vocalist and bass player Diane Bock at open mic night at Michael’s on Main, and the three musicians hit it off, spending the ensuing years coalescing their chops diving deep into the music of notable blues divas from the 1920s through the 1960s.
Ramon grew up with Motown and got turned onto the blues from friends and connections in Black Mountain, North Carolina, where he has his roots. His blues sensibility is bedrock. Diane is an elementary school music theory teacher whose improvisational agility adds to the musical integrity. “Blues is American classical music,” Diane said. “Every musician today, I don’t care if it’s rock n’ roll, The Stones, whoever, it pretty much all goes back to blues. It’s the great grandfather of jazz, rock, hip hop, all of it. It’s the one musical form that was born in this country.” Focusing on women in blues, Ramon said, “It’s kind of an underserved area. “I mean everybody thinks of John Lee Hooker or Muddy Waters, Robert Johnson, but there’s all these other great singers.” And as Ramon says, “Everything starts with the singer.”
Originally from Buffalo, New York, Michele chooses from a wide selection of female-forward songs that tell the story of life, things that everyone can relate to. “Wild Women Don’t Have the Blues,” recorded in 1924 by singer Ida Cox with Lovie Austin’s Blues Serenaders carries a strong feminist message. “Ain’t Nobody’s Business,” a song about freedom of choice written by Porter Grainger and Everett Robbins in 1922 was covered by many famous singers, including Billie Holiday. “Need a Little Sugar in My Bowl,” a composition by Clarence Williams and Tim Brynn was first released in 1931 on a recording by Bessie Smith. With its suggestive lyrics, Michele can swing her performance of ‘Sugar with a little sass. Also on the setlist, many songs written by Janis Joplin including “One Good Man” and “Mary Jane.”
Michele also writes some of the songs the group performs. “Bird” is about a family member who struggles for freedom. “Sin House” tells the story of addiction and recovery. “A Pot of Soup” was written during darker times with lyrics meant to ‘raise the vibration’.
RIVER MOUTH, FLYPAPER BLUES, FRIDAY MARCH 6 @8PM, $10
RIVERMOUTH:
River Mouth (@rivermouth_band) • Instagram photos and videos
FLYPAPER BLUES: Santa Cruz-based Americana band Flypaper Blues is straight out of your grandfather's rifle barrel. A little whiskey, coffee grinds, 2-in-1 oil, and a whole lot of fiddle, driving drums, and bass rhythms. This 100% homegrown, local band brings influences from traditional bluegrass, post-punk, ragtime, to alt-country genres. Songwriting is personal, comedic, and inspired by the existential need to transcend the hazards and pitfalls of modern life with soul-nourishing music.
THE SUBORBITALS, THE TRANSDUCERS, THURSDAY MARCH 5 @8PM, $10
THE SUBORBITALS: Formed in 2003, The Suborbitals is an original low-rock band that features the powerful baritone sax of Ben Herod, the incomparable rhythm section of Gordon Stokes and Heath Proskin (who, incidentally is playing at The Crepe Place on Jan. 20 with his jazz duo), and the songwriting of Ryan Masters. "It's a unique sound...and dark. It's really wonderful," said Sleepy John Sandidge of KPIG. Popdust called The Suborbitals "wickedly tight burlesque strip club music, the kind you'd find at a gentleman's club on the wrong side of the tracks, rife with deep tones from the sax and theatrical vocals." The SubOs have released two albums, Blackout Rolling (2006) and Hey Oblivion (2018). No Depression called the latter "quite unlike anything else you'll hear in modern popular music today."
THE TRANSDUCERS:
JAZZ THE DOG, FREE SHOW IN THE GARDEN, 5:30 to 7:30pm
FREE - 5:30 to 7:30
Rick Zeek - Guitar, Vocals
Patti Maxine - Lap Steel, Vocals
Rhan Wilson - Guitar, Vocals, Looping
Jazz, the dog. - Mascot, best friend.
SCIENCE ON TAP, MONDAY MARCH 2 @6PM, FREE EVENT IN THE GARDEN!
Science on Tap
Monthly on the FIRST MONDAY of the month.
Come one, come all to the “science café” in Santa Cruz. This event is designed to connect the Santa Cruz community to the latest research happening just up the hill at U.C. Santa Cruz. It is not an exclusive “club meeting” for scientists and science majors - we aim to appeal to all audiences! So come join us at the Crepe Place, grab a beer, relax, and hear some interesting and cutting-edge science that’s happening near you!
Science on Tap is based on the Nova and Sigma Xi "science café" model and is generally on the FIRST MONDAY of every month.
GRATEFUL SUNDAY With MATT HARTLE And The HARTLE GOLD BAND, 6 to 9pm ON THE GARDEN STAGE, $15 AT THE DOOR
Grateful Sundays at the Crepe Place take place in the beautiful garden. Full meals are available, and the Garden Bar is open for service!
For the past number of years, Matt has hosted the highly successful series "Grateful Sundays". This ongoing residency has attracted the finest musicians in the Grateful Dead music genre. While constantly in-demand as a stage and session player throughout the Bay Area, Hartle is also a founding member and musical linchpin of no less than four, Santa Cruz-based bands: Shady Groove - the funky blues, jazz-rock and R&B outfit (a Bay Area favorite going strong since 2001); Painted Mandolin - an acoustic quartet featuring multi-instrumental wizard Joe Craven, of The Jerry Garcia Acoustic Band and David Grisman Quintet; Spirit of 76 - a premier collection of Grateful Dead players, focusing on the jazzy, mid-'70's incarnation of the Dead; and Matt is also renowned as the firebrand lead guitarist of The China Cats, the highly respected Grateful Dead tribute act, a Bay Area favorite.
WASABI Featuring GARY KEHOE, FRIDAY FEBRUARY 27 @8PM, $10
WASABI Featuring GARY KEHOE: Wasabi was founded in 1998 in Arcata CA. Originally the band consisted of the Work Brothers Ron and Alex on guitars and drums and bass player Matt Robinson. In 2000 the band moved to Santa Cruz CA. Around 2001 the band expanded to include keyboardist Mike Emerson. In 2005 Matt Robinson moved to Sacramento CA to help start the Jazz Studies Program at Sacramento State College and Mike Emerson moved on to a long continuous career as a touring keys player and is currently playing with the Tommy Castro Band.
In 2005 the stars aligned and local Santa Cruz bass wunderkind Dan Robbins joined the Brothers Work on their musical quest.
Since 2005 Ron and Alex Work along with bass player Dan Robbins have been bringing their unique version of music to crowds all over. The power trio plays primarily original music, with a few select covers, rooted in a meld of funk/rock/jazz/world/hip hop/dance music. Wasabi’s tunes draw from the personal journeys of its members and a revolving collection of special guests who frequently sit in on various instruments and vocals. The music is creative and fun with unique twists and turns and lends itself to dancing as well as contemplative listening. The band denies being put into one genre. The music is an exploration and everything is on the table for compositional possibilities.
