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Experiencing Nature’s Harmony in Armstrong Redwoods Natural Reserve

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Under tall green trees, four musicians stand on a natural stage on a rock wall. They are dressed casually and comfortably. The bass player on the left has a blue electric bass and is involved in playing. The central figure is the singer, holding a microphone and wearing a red cape. Just barely visible behind the red cape is the face of the drummer, concentrating. The last musician has an acoustic guitar and is standing at the microphone singing and playing.
The Jim Ocean Band perform at the Sylvan Sound Check at the Armstrong Forest Theater in Armstrong Redwood State Nature Reserve. Photo by Justin Lindenberg.

On the crisp evening of Friday, October 20th, the tranquil beauty and sounds of Armstrong Redwood State Natural Reserve merged with the eco-themed melodies of the Jim Ocean Band. The Armstrong Forest Theater served as the backdrop for this musical experience, the Sylvan Sound Check, attended by around forty people.

The Jim Ocean Band, led by Jim and Kathy Ocean, is self-described as “eclectic, fresh and edgy.” Part folk rock and part “thought-rockers” their content ranges from humorous to serious to spiritual.

This event previewed the upcoming 2024 , a series of free outdoor musical performances organized by the Stewards of the Coast and Redwoods, in cooperation with performing musicians and community sponsors and the California State Parks Arts in California Parks program. Learn more about the Sylvan Sounds concert series here, including the Sylvan Sounds 2024 kickoff concert on Friday May 3rd featuring the Acorn MusEcology Project.

Stewards of the Coast and Redwoods is a nonprofit committed to protecting the natural and cultural resources of Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve, Austin Creek State Recreation Area, and Sonoma Coast State Park through volunteerism, environmental education, and stewardship.

Four musicians on stage are clapping after a song ends: drummer on the left with jeans and a black t-shirt, the lead singer sitting with his electric guitar in front center wearing jeans, a blue sweatshirt and baseball cap; the female supporting vocalist standing in a red cape and black hat; and the supporting acoustic guitarist on the right standing with jeans and a black t-shirt. The backdrop is a hillside with ferns.
The Jim Ocean Band perform at the Sylvan Sound Check at the Armstrong Forest Theater in Armstrong Redwood State Nature Reserve. Photo by Justin Lindenberg.
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