"My Band Was the First to Put on an All-Ages Show There"

"My band was the first to put on an all-ages show there," said guitarist Brandon Turner of Parkhurst about the Jumping Turtle in San Marcos. "We played there before for a 21-and-up crowd, and we drew, like, 30 people. This time [for the all-age show] it almost sold out."

"If I don't put a lot of time and effort into getting bands who will promote their show, we could have a rough night," said talent buyer Todd Chandler. Chandler said his all-age nights have helped put the restaurant/bar near Palomar College on the map.

Chandler said the fact the Jumping Turtle has a kitchen and serves food until 11 p.m. allows him to host an all-age crowd. Unlike the rest of California, San Diego County nightclubs with music will not allow admission to those under 21. The Jumping Turtle in San Marcos has a full bar. Chandler said security guards prevent those under 21 from walking into the area immediately adjacent to the bar, and if someone over 21 tries to give an underage person a drink, "they are exited from the venue."

Until last summer 'Canes in Mission Beach had all-age nights, but the venue has changed its policy due to pressure from the San Diego Police Department.

"I don't know anything about the problems they might have had," said Chandler. "We haven't encountered any."

Owner Matt Hall said the Jumping Turtle would consider allowing outside promoters to bring headliners to his 250-capacity club. "Our heart lies with bands that play original music. A lot of bands never have the opportunity to touch that side of the market."

Chandler said bands looking to play the Jumping Turtle should call him at 760-471-7778.

The Accident Experiment, Scar'd Sanity, Pound Foolish, Shadowdrop, and Whole Hog appear 6:30 p.m. February 19, all ages, $7 admission.