Awww, Mark -- come on down.

But I am sure thee is some kind of good music in Santa Barbara, just down the hill from Ojai, or in Ventura -- I just don't know anyone in the area. :emme see what I can scrounge up....

The folkies probably center around this place:

Folk Mote Music
1034 Santa Barbara Street
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
(805) 962-0830 voice
(805) 962-2841 fax

and here's a blurb on what looks like a really good open mic event every week:


Every Thursday Evening 8:00 PM. Some of the most talented Singer/Songwriters in the state come to perform in this weekly venue that includes music from all disciplines. From the Delta Blues of Spyder Murphy to Zydeco and Contemporary Folk music gifted artists play guitars, piano, drums, trombones, harmonica  and washboards to a festive audience. With single performers to jazz bands this unique revue specializes in original compositions that are sure to inspire the creative juices in all of us. Join us for an evening of music that you won't soon forget and that you can't hear  anywhere else in the world! Bring your guitar and join in on the fun and sing us a song at the Open-mic following the Showcase.  Where: Dargans Irish Pub 18 east Ortega St. Santa Barbara,CA Just off State Street in downtown Santa Barbara For further information contact: Antara Blasius/RedStar Productions (805) 563-2508 e-mail antara@silcom.com



Hope this helps!

Amos