Rod & Hammer’s California Whiskey has unveiled two initiatives to support charitable Los Angeles wildfire relief efforts: a benefit concert and a special-edition bourbon release, demonstrating the spirits industry’s growing commitment to community support.
The “Songs of Solace” benefit concert, scheduled for January 26, 2025, will feature ten local bands performing at Rod & Hammer’s Rock in San Luis Obispo. The eight-hour event runs from noon to 8 PM, with all ticket proceeds benefiting the California Fire Foundation. The lineup includes local favorites such as Moonshiner Collective, The Vibe Setters, Funk Junket, and Zongo All-Stars.
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Rod & Hammer’s Wildfire Resilience Straight Bourbon
Alongside the concert, Rod & Hammer’s has launched their Wildfire Resilience Straight Bourbon. The special-edition release, priced at $50, is available at their tasting room and online store. The initiative represents a growing trend among craft distilleries to support local causes through limited-edition releases.
“At Rod & Hammer’s, we believe in turning gratitude into action,” said Rodney Cegelski, Co-founder at Rod & Hammer’s. “This handcrafted bourbon symbolizes resilience and courage while directly benefiting those affected by the fires.”
“The impact of these fires is felt far and wide, and we’re committed to doing our part to help those affected,” added Hamish Marshall, Co-founder at Rod & Hammer’s. “This is our way of standing with the brave individuals protecting our state and helping to rebuild the communities that mean so much to all of us.”
Songs of Solace
The event will feature a community raffle with donations from local businesses, adding another layer of support to the fundraising efforts. All proceeds from both the raffle and bourbon sales during the concert will support various wildfire relief programs through the California Fire Foundation.
The concert venue, located at 855 Aerovista Place in San Luis Obispo, will transform into a hub of community support and musical celebration. Additional performers include Chris Beland Band, Ryan Delmore, Carbon City Lights, Max Maclaury, and Mother Corn Shuckers, creating a diverse lineup that spans multiple genres.
These initiatives reflect a broader movement within the spirits industry to engage in meaningful community support and disaster relief efforts, particularly in regions affected by climate-related challenges.
Ryan Orr, talent buyer for SLO Brew Live, said: “This is an opportunity to come together and support those affected by the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles. We’re honored to feature such incredible local talent and give back in a meaningful way.”
Purchase your tickets here.
The Los Angeles Wildfires
The California wildfires of 2025 commenced on January 7, primarily affecting the Los Angeles metropolitan area. The most significant blaze, the Palisades Fire, is currently around 23,700 acres and around 21% contained. The fire has destroyed neighborhoods and homes across western LA.
Collectively, these wildfires have led to at least 25 deaths, forced over 200,000 evacuations, and damaged or destroyed thousands of structures, decimating multiple areas of the city. The fires are still burning and firefighters are working around the clock to contain them.