by Louis Kreslie

July 6 - Hiroshima @ Hyatt Newporter
Jazz-fusion super group Hiroshima will perform at the Hyatt Newporter on Friday, July 6. Since galvanizing the instrumental music world with its unique East meets West approach in the late 70s, Hiroshima’s sound has been a blend of distinctively Japanese elements, June Kuramoto’s classical flavored koto, the booming taiko drum, along with funky urban and jazz sensibilities. This year marks 26 years since saxophonist and East L.A. native Dan Kuramoto, along with June, first formed the ensemble. The concert is part of The 2007 Summer Jazz Festival held on Fridays this summer at the hotel’s very own outdoor amphitheater. With the Back Bay views, the lush walkways and reflection of the tropics, this one of a kind setting makes it the most intimate venue for Southern California’s premier jazz events. Ticket prices range from $40 - $70. Hyatt Regency Newporter is at 1107 Jamboree Road in Newport Beach. For more info, visit: summerjazzseries.com or call (949) 729-6400.


July 15 - Asia America Youth Orchestra @ JANM
The Asia America Youth Orchestra will perform at the Japanese American National Museum on Sunday, July 15. The concert is from 2:00pm - 3:30pm. In conjunction with the exhibition “Akio Morita,” which traces the life and achievements of Akio Morita, this musical program will reflect Morita’s visionary legacy of promoting U.S.-Japan relations through innovation, exchange, and respect. Formed by renowned pianist-composer, David Benoit, the mission of the Asia America Youth Orchestra is to provide young musicians with a rigorous training program to develop their talents and prepare them for multi-faceted careers in the arts. $8 National Museum Members; $13 non-members. Advance ticket purchase recommended; seating is limited. 213-625-0414.



August 9 - Tribute to Alice Coltrane @ First & Central First & Central Summer Concert Series
The First & Central Summer Concert Series in Little Tokyo continues on Thursday, August 9 at 6:30 pm with a celebration of the music of Alice Coltrane, The Coltrane name is synonymous with deeply creative, passion-filled modern music. This special evening is a tribute to the legacy of the family matriarch, the late Alice Coltrane (1937-2007), whose approach to the piano was nothing short of genius. Performers include her beloved Ashram Community Choir and The Universal Consciousness Orchestra featuring vocalist Dwight Trible. The concert will also include a set by Mrs. Coltrane’s talented nephew Flying Lotus. DJ Mark Maxwell will be on hand spinning a soulful mix of music throughout the evening. Guest Curator: Carlos Nino, Host, KPFK’s Spaceways Radio. FREE! Made possible, in part, by the Los Angeles County Arts Commission; the Department of Cultural Affairs, City of Los Angeles; the James Irvine Foundation, and the National Center for the Preservation of Democracy.


August 20 - Non-Hokey Karaoke
Karaoke has been a popular form of entertainment beginning first in Japan, then the rest of East Asia, since at least the 1980s, and has since spread to other parts of the world. On Monday night, August 20, Cozy’s Blues Bar & Grill in Sherman Oaks will be more like a house party than a blues venue. Karaoke becomes a full evening of great entertainment as raw amateurs share the stage with prodigies, pros and the occasional celebrity. Shows are often standing-room-only. Always fun to watch. Never hokey. Early signup is recommended for singers. 9:00 pm Start - - $5 Cover. 14058 Ventura Blvd, Sherman Oaks. (818) 986-6000.



August 25 - Satori Daiko @ John Anson Ford Amphitheatre
The performing ensemble of Taiko Center of Los Angeles, Satori Daiko, will perform in concert at John Anson Ford Amphitheatre in Hollywood on Saturday, August 25. The concert will begin at 10 am. Led by Reverend Tom Kurai, the founder of TCLA, Satori Daiko plays an eclectic mix of taiko music and Japanese traditional instruments with touches of world music. This “Sound and Dance of Asia” concert will also feature Korean and Chinese dance performances. Jung Im Lee Korean Dance Academy is the host organization. John Anson Ford Amphitheater is at 2580 Cahuenga Blvd. East. Children FREE (reservations required), Adults $5. For tickets, call 323-461-3673.