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In the wake of the destructive Rices Fire that scorched parts of the Sierra Nevada Mountains to the east of Yuba City from late June into early July, Almost Famous Wine Lounge in Livermore will be hosting a benefit concert to raise funds for musicians from the area who were affected by the blaze.
Funk band Big Sticky Mess will be headlining the show in an effort to raise equipment and rebuilding funds. Originally from Davis, Big Sticky Mess has performed at many wineries and events in the Livermore wine country, according to event organizers.
The band had recently started recording their third album when their recording studio, El Fuerte, was ruined in the fire.
The entire studio, along with recording gear, music equipment and other items belonging to musicians who used the space, were also destroyed.
“We love Big Sticky Mess and we’re excited for them to play material from their recent second album, as well as the third album they were in the process of recording,” said Kailyn Kent, communications director for Almost Famous Wine Lounge.
After hearing about other regional music acts rallying for the cause, the wine company had a desire to contribute. “We wanted to help out by donating wine proceeds from the show,” Kent said.
A portion of the proceeds from Almost Famous’ “Firepit Wines” sold the night of the show will go to El Fuerte studio owner, Kevin Welch, for rebuilding his property. Another portion will be contributed to Patrick Langham, an independent musician who lost the majority of his recording equipment due to the fire. Langham’s gear was originally bought using his full invested savings, he called the loss “soul crushing.”
“We donate the proceeds from Firepit wines to the national and state parks,” Kent said in a statement. “Now, we can support our local musicians in a way that feels really personal to us.”
Located in Livermore’s wine and spirit district, the Almost Famous Wine Lounge aims to highlight local and upcoming performers. This includes musicians and comedians showcasing original work, according to the venue’s website.
“Livermore loves live music. We have an incredible music scene, between our many wineries, festivals and restaurants,” Kent said. “Livermore wouldn’t be the same without live music and helping Kevin Welch, Patrick Langham and Sac-area bands like Big Sticky Mess helps us support something that makes this town special.”
Launched by the family-owned Darcie Kent Vineyards brand, Almost Famous Wine Lounge opened its doors in January with the goal of spotlighting underrepresented artists and giving them a bigger platform to share their content all while celebrating and discovering new wines.
“We love how people come together over music, such as at Love Livermore Live, which is hosted each year at Darcie Kent,” said Kent, who is also the daughter of fifth-generation winemaker and artist Darcie Kent. “By creating Almost Famous, we could provide a new home for world-class live music in Livermore, as well as a gathering place to come together over wine.”
Almost Famous Wine Lounge venue manager, Kiersten Smith, echoed Kent’s enthusiastic sentiments about the new space.
“We’re bringing in a mix of local bands, up-and-coming artists, and world-class session musicians who are legends in their field but have always flown a little under the radar,” Smith said. “This is a place to discover hidden gems, both in music and wine, and we’re excited for the venue to be a testing ground for musical artists and new wine brands.”
The 21+ Big Sticky Mess performance is set for this Saturday (Aug. 20) at Almost Famous Wine Lounge located at 2271 S. Vasco Road, Suite D. The concert is free to attend. Individual donations can be made at the event. For tickets or more information about the venue, visit almostfamouswine.com.
