Glenn Giving Back, Again 

As he shared from the Granada stage last Saturday night, it turns One805’s Rock for First Responders benefit concert grew out of Glenn Phillips’s idea to put something together in the wake of the Los Angeles fires to support both local and L.A. first responder fires, as well as the nonprofit Music Cares that helps musicians in need. That’s why Phillips’ longtime pop-rock band Toad the Wet Sprocket – all five musicians – had the space to play a half dozen songs before headliner Hootie and the Blowfish (who he’d invited to join) played a full set to close out the night. 

But Phillips hasn’t finished with putting together benefits to boost those devastated by the January wildfires. He’s also appearing in his solo role as part of a series of Southern California singer-songwriters playing at the Alcazar Theatre in Carpinteria on March 15, with proceeds earmarked for the Sweet Relief Musicians Fund to assist with the loss of music-related equipment and other essential living expenses for Altadena musicians. 

Also appearing are Phillips’ longtime friends and colleagues Sara and Sean Watkins from Nickel Creek as The Watkins Family Hour, dream pop/psychedelic/funk band Gardens & Villa, Goleta-raised Omar Velasco, longtime Phillips’ friend and fellow folk-rocker Garrison Starr, and Clay Finch of the folk duo Mapache. Tickets are just $35-$50. Visit www.thealcazar.org.