Local Clubs Still Draw Top-Notch Bands : Groups such as the Dixie Flyers, Rhythm Rangers and Fender Benders have relied on charisma and talent to build a loyal following throughout the county.

Since this column debuted in October, 1993, I’ve seen the predictable turnover of bands and clubs looking for the right sound and format to best ride the current country wave. And after much experimentation, many clubs in the area have gone toward using singles, karaoke or deejays to provide week-night country entertainment.

On the other hand, Cousin’s in Simi Valley is dropping its remaining night of deejay/karaoke to become the area’s only country spot featuring live bands seven nights a week.

In the coming months you can catch local favorites Darlene O’Connell & the Dixie Flyers, the Rhythm Rangers and the Fender Benders. And watch for an influx of new groups from L.A. County.

On a recent Wednesday, I caught Winslow, a fun four-piece group based in Venice. Drummer Chris Cohut uses an electronic drum kit--Euro techno-pop meets country.

Winslow has been well-received because of the group’s danceable sound and humorous interaction with the crowd. Steve Hollstein (rhythm guitar) does most of the lead vocals, including an entertaining Willie Nelson imitation.

Hot lead guitarist Scott Boucher looks more like an accountant from Tarzana. But he plays his Telecaster in the signature style of Pete Anderson, Dwight Yoakam’s producer-lead guitarist and creator of Yoakam’s hillbilly-rock sound. And Boucher’s Vince Gill-like voice on ballads is a good contrast for Hollstein’s more nasal interpretations. Rounding out the band is bass player-vocalist Jesse Garcia.

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Before we get too far into the new year, this might be a good time to acknowledge the 1994 local country music scene highlights:

The Acousticats. This talented progressive bluegrass group is a favorite headliner at Santa Barbara’s annual Live Oak Folk Music Festival and its second CD release, “Cat’s Meow,” has received frequent airplay on KPFK 90.7 FM.

Darlene O’Connell & the Dixie Flyers. This charismatic country-show band opened for Jerry Jeff Walker and Radney Foster. Darlene remained the area’s most popular female vocalist, Tom Ricardo continued his show-stopping fiddle tunes and the band added male vocalist John Styles. Other high-profile events included the Ventura Police Block Party and K-HAY’s annual Toys for Tots benefit.

Fender Benders. This new band brought together some talented musicians from the Desert Rose Band, Sky King, Sarah Pierce and the Healers, and Caught Red Handed. Until recently they played mostly in Santa Barbara. But now they’re starting to perform at the Crazy Bull and Cousin’s.

Larry Dean and the Shooters. This San Fernando Valley-based act recently released a very enjoyable CD. Currently, his only local stop is at Cousin’s; otherwise catch them at the Cowboy Palace in Chatsworth.

Rhythm Rangers. Their 1994 highlight reel included opening for the Temptations, headlining “Conejo Valley Days” and “ A Country-Western Christmas,” Ventura Harbor’s Parade of Lights. Fans love their rock ‘n’ roll edge. Their new CD will be released Jan. 26 with a party at Maxie’s in Oak View.

Shiloh. Known for their harmony vocals, they were the Country Lovers Western Dance Club’s main band choice for dances in ’94. And they opened for Restless Heat at the annual Gold Dust Gala. The band lost drummer Jon Cowsill, formerly of the ‘70s hit group, the Cowsills. And Paul Mathew, the Dixie Flyer’s original drummer, is filling the chair.

Honorable Mention: Acadiana, Cactus County, Jimmy Dale and the Desperados, Raywood and the Unseen, Sibling Rivalry, Steve Hill, Sweet Country.

Bands worth a drive to Santa Barbara County: Art Green Band, Cache Valley Drifters, John James Band, Spaghetti Western, Steve Woods and Too Much Fun.

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And now that we’ve discussed the highlights, how about the casualties of 1994, may they rest in peace:

Ventura County resident and former Byrd, Chris Hillman, folded the Desert Rose Band’s tent. Guitarist Jim Monahan joined the Fender Benders.

Most Wanted really became “most wanted” after their no-show for my interview and New Year’s Eve at the City Line.

The popular Platte River Crossing cut a cassette album, got local airplay on Thunder 105.5, then went to Nashville and blew up.

Sarah Pierce and the Healers moved to Texas without guitarist-fiddle player Lee Rollag, who became a Fender Bender.

Sky King didn’t actually die, but merged with Troy Robinson to become Caught Red-Handed II.

Details

* WHO: Winslow.

* WHEN: Tonight through Saturday.

* WHERE: Cousin’s Country Saloon, 2381 Tapo St., Simi Valley.

* HOW MUCH: No cover charge during January.

* FYI: Free dance lessons, 7 p.m.

* CALL: 522-2559.