Part of the NAMM experience, and for me the most rewarding aspect of this annual musical circus, is the live music that takes place around Southern California. In years past we have reported on some of these shows with reviews and photo essays.

Last month’s NAMM experience did not disappoint as once again the annual Deke Dickerson Guitar Geek Fest took place in Anaheim. The jazz organ great Joey DeFransesco had his annual show in nearby Fullerton. I always make it out to as many of these shows as possible.

This year was no exception. I attended a great show in Long Beach, California, presented by Cadillac Zack. He brought to the stage Kim Wilson’s All Star Blues Band. As we have featured Kim and his great band on a few occasions here at BLUES JUNCTION I didn’t feel the need to share any more pictures of that overflow, standing room only show.

We do however have a photo essay from three other shows that took place over the NAMM weekend. Enjoy a photo essay from three photographers from three different shows. Thanks to John Reilly who shot pics in Fullerton, Brad Elligood who did the same in Santa Ana and to the incomparable Alex Gardner who did his thing in Hermosa Beach.

Big Sandy

Keith Wyatt, Johnny Bazz & Bill Bateman (The Blasters)

John Doe

Dave Gonzalez & Kid Ramos

Exene Cervenka & Phil Alvin

Dave Alvin

Junior Watson

Larry Taylor & Fred Kaplan

Dave Gonzalez

Phil Alvin & Dave Alvin

John Doe

Exene Cervenka

Raoul Bhaneja

Richard Innes

Fred Kaplan

Dave Gonzalez & Kid Ramos

Johnny Bazz & Bill Bateman

Larry Taylor

Phil Alvin

Editors Note: The show in Santa Ana was a benefit show for Phil Alvin, to help offset medical expenses incurred after emergency surgery overseas this past fall.  Contributions to help with Phil's recent medical expenses can still be made by sending  donations to New Highway, Inc and make the check out to:
New Highway, Inc
1563 Solano Avenue #439
Berkeley, CA 94707

Thanks to Dave Alvin for the info!