Albert Schweitzer once said that “There are two means of refuge from the miseries of life: music and cats.” One might add dogs and maybe an occasional unique chicken to this, but there is no doubt about the music element. To that end we want to to let you know about some upcoming gigs – all Loretta-related! We’ve been busy busy busy, both working on the new material, collaborating with others and booking some solo gigs as well.

First, don’t miss our own Ari Fellows-Mannion for a night of dark and sparkling stories Saturday, April 26th at Ira Marlowe’s now-infamous Monkey House (1638 University Ave in Berkeley)! She’ll be sharing the bill with the Monkey-Master himself, Ira Marlowe, and with the fabulous High-Diving Horses (the duo of Danny & Laura Allen). Joining for Ari’s songs will be percussionist Chris Shirley. If you haven't been to the Monkey House yet, you are in for even more of a treat. It’s is a cool low-volume venue, all plush and dark, with excellent sound - you can actually hear the lyrics. (It's also a cheap date, as no refreshments are sold: you can bring your own, from swill to the most delicate of cordials.) Doors at 7:30, show from 8-10, all-ages. Reserve your spots & get more info here.

Then – the gals of Loretta are happy as (healthy) honeybees to be singing harmony vocals once again for the amazing Maurice Tani and 77 El Deora at the Freight and Salvage Friday, May 2nd. This is going to be an amazing night, as also joining Maurice will be bassist Mike Anderson, English songstress Pam Brandon, jazz pianist Randy Craig, violinist Steve Kallai and Ken Owen on the drums, and Jeanine "on-the-tambourine" Richardson on hand percussion. As Maurice says, the new Freight is certainly the nicest venue anyone on the Americana circuit can play. If you haven't been there yet either, know that it's designed from the ground up as a purpose-built, state-of-the-art, tuned concert hall for acoustic music. Even the seats are comfortable, custom designed, springy-back sorts. How far we have come! Get your tickets now! Doors 7 PM Show promptly at 8 PM http://thefreight.org/

As if this weren’t enough, Dan Olmsted’s band Dandeline will be playing at Port Costa’s historic Burlington Hotel Friday, May 30th. Another amazing venue, and an opportunity to see this sweet as cherry pie duo in a rare and intimate performance. And the show is FREE! For more info, visit www.thehotelburlington.com (Loretta will be playing there in full band format in late June – more on that soon!)

But wait – there’s more!!! Loretta will be playing the aforementioned Monkey House in full band format, with the ultra-talented Nathan Moy on cajón Saturday, May 31st! We’ll send more information about that soon, but be prepared for new songs to alternately tickle your funny bone and make you recall misspent youth.

Spring has sprung! Join us for some or all of these dates. We miss you!

Love,

We'll be taking a short hiatus this winter/early spring, but don't despair! We'll be back before you know it with brand spanking new material, ready to serenade you all!

See you soon,

Rain rain rain rain ... beautiful rain! Dunno if folks recall, but the last time it rained in the Bay Area Loretta was in cahoots with Maurice Tani and 77 El Deora, and whaddya know? It’s looking like rain again just as Loretta Lynch, Maurice Tani and 77 El Deora join forces again to play Berkeley’s Starry Plough this Friday night, Jan. 31st at 9 PM. Pure coincidence? Let us know your thoughts.

Loretta will start off the evening in full band mode, with new songs and old, and then the gals will hop up on stage with Maurice, Mike Anderson, John Hanes, David Phillips and Jeanine Richardson for a set of cleverly reworked covers singing back-up vocals. As if this weren't enough, Maurice will then play a full-on set of “Hillbilly Noir” with El Deora. If last night’s rehearsal was any indication of what’s in store, you’re in for a treat! It’s an amazingly talented and fun band.

Hope to see you and your dusted-off boots for some fun and frolic (and fresh-cut french fries – mmmmm...) Friday!

Love,

Loretta

P.S. Thanks to Maurice for the fine poster!

2014 – the year of second chances? (or in the majority of our cases, 40+ ...)

Here’s an opportunity: if you missed it last month when the ladies of Loretta Lynch joined forces with Maurice Tani and his band, you can hear it again, and more of it! This time, both whole-band Loretta Lynch and Maurice Tani/77 El Deora will do full sets, with the ladies of LL joining Maurice on harmony for an expanded set. We’ll be occupying one of our all-time favorite venues the Starry Plough in Berkeley on Friday, January 31st, with the musical festivities starting at 9 PM.

Speaking of expanded, the Starry Plough has altered its menu. Come enjoy great food and delicious beery and winey beverages while you stomp your feet.

See your brand spankin’ baby new year selves there!

Love,

Please join us as we harmonize with one of the most talented musicians the Bay Area has to offer - Maurice Tani! We are lucky to be joining the great John Hanes, Mike Anderson, David Phillips and Jeanine Richardson. Deborah Crooks and Kate Burkhart will be opening. Don't miss it!

Love,