Sunday, February 28, 2010

SUN 2/28: Sunday Night Off-Topic Video

From earlier this month, a time-lapse video of the DC snow storm (doesn't look like a blizzard):

SUN 2/28: Black History, Year of the Tiger, Music, Lamb, Comedy


I woke up at a reasonable time on Saturday, then I started thinking about a departed friend, which led my to listen to songs and look at photos and play guitar until I left to see my lady. I miss you, Tracy.

Also my friends at Bostonist are hosting a photo walk around Fenway at 4pm. You don't have to read the site or take a minimum amount of pictures to join in.

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SUN 2/28

11:30am to 3:30pm
Black History Month Celebration
at Villa Victoria Center, 85 W Newton St, Boston (South End)
FREE Admission

Enjoy music, dance, spoken word, and food. It's kinda like a free soul food brunch. Iyeoka is one of the performers.

SUN 2/28

1pm to 4pm
Chinese New Year Celebration
form Winthrop Park to Hong Kong, 1238 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
FREE

If you missed Chinatown's celebration there will be thos gragons (lions?) in Cambridge and activities at the Hong Kong.

SUN 2/28

2:30pm to 3:30pm
"Come Celebrate the Year of the Tiger, Chinese Year 4708"
at Rabb Lecture Hall, Boston Public Library, 700 Boylston St, Boston (Copley Sq)
FREE

...or a concert of traditional music at the BPL.

SUN 2/28

2:30pm
Ambitious Tugboat, Dan Blakeslee, Manners, Damien Christian
at O'Brien's, 3 Harvard St, Allston
$6 / 18+

I'm starting to figure out that Ambitious Tugboat is configuring their Sunday afternoon residency as a forum to hear a variety of styles besides indie/experimental folk -- like the ambient stylings of Manners or the rap of Damien Christian.

SUN 2/28

4pm
The Lamb Takedown
at Middle East - Downstairs, 480 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$15 / 18+

Close to a cheap thrill and delicious. Twenty entrants will be given 15 pounds of lamb to make something tasty for you to try. If you taste all of them, it's less than a dollar per dish. Not a bad early dinner...

Warning: the chili takedown filled Great Scott in July.

SUN 2/28

6:30pm
"Opera Marathon Weekend"
at CFA Concert Hall, 855 Comm Ave, Boston (BU campus)
FREE

Performances hosted by the Opera Institute:

6:30 pm -- Opera Preview
7 pm -- Gianni Schicchi
SUN 2/28

8pm
Comedy
Erin Judge Hosts...
at The Comedy Studio, top of Hong Kong, 1238 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
$8

Feat: Jessie Baade, Matt D., Rich Gustus, Sarah Martin, Shane Mauss, Pat McLoud, Kris Norton, Guitler Raphael, Jacob Simon, Emma Willmann, Lady Vain, Don Zollo

I've personally witnessed Shane Mauss being frickin' hilarious. Others will likely deliver as well.

If you're not afraid of coupons, you could get a dollar off of the cover by printing this.

Friday, February 26, 2010

Sneak Peek: SAT 2/27


There's other cheap stuff on the calendar, but these are the main CTB items coming up.

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SAT 2/27

2pm to 5pm
Christian McNeill, Jessie Dee, Rick Berlin, Dennis Brennan Quatro
at Atwoods Tavern, 877 Cambridge St, Cambridge (near Inman & Kendall Sq)
$10 Donation

"Four Big Voices take on 1 In 100 -- a Benefit to challenge Autism"

Proceeds benefit Surfers Healing.

SAT 2/27

3pm
Chinese New Year Celebration
at Villa Victoria, 85 W Newton St, Boston (South End)
FREE

Performances by the Chinese Folk Art Workshop youth group, which will probably include: dragon dance, lion dance, Taiwanese drums and Chinese yoyo.

SAT 2/27 & SUN 2/28

Various Times
Opera Marathon Weekend
at CFA Concert Hall, 855 Comm Ave, Boston (BU campus)
FREE

Performances hosted by the Opera Institute:

SAT 2/27

4:30pm -- Opera Preview
5pm -- Gianni Schicchi
7pm -- "Casualties of Love" (various staged scenes)
8pm -- Opera Scenes
SUN 2/28
6:30 pm -- Opera Preview
7 pm -- Gianni Schicchi
SAT 2/27

5pm to 6pm
"Othello": Open Rehearsal
at Downstairs at The Garage, 38 JFK St, Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
FREE w/ RSVP

As mentioned below. You might be able to still RSVP...

SAT 2/27

6:30pm
The New England Americana Festival
at Church, 69 Kilmarnock St, Boston (Fenway)
$10 / 21+
12:10pm -- Three Day Threshold
11:10pm -- Jimmy Ryan & Hayride (Feat. Duke Levine)
10:20pm -- Autumn Hollow
9:30pm -- Sam Reid & the Riot Act
8:45pm -- Big East
8:00pm -- That Old Feelin
7:20pm -- Bees Knees
6:30pm -- Dave Sammarco Band
SAT 2/27

Young Tremors (12:45am), The Dirty Truckers (11:45pm), Watts (10:45pm), Memphis 59 (9:45pm), Tad Overbaugh & Late Arrival (8:45pm)
at Precinct, 70 Union Sq, Somerville (Union Sq)
$10 / 21+

Rock n' roots

SAT 2/27

9:30pm
Mike Gent & The Rapid Shave
at Rosebud Bar & Grill (behind Diner), 381 Summer St, Somerville (Davis Sq)
$5 / 21+

Two sets from Mike Gent (The Figgs, The Gentlemen) with his current side project.

SAT 2/27

10pm
Rock Bottom, JJ & Thee Cuban Heels
at Johnny D's, 17 Holland St, Somerville (Davis Sq)
$10 / 21+

Amazing rock/soul/R&B guitar music from the great JJ Rassler (DMZ, Queers, Downbeat 5, etc) and 70's-rock fun from Boston rock vets.


*** Long Distance Cheap Thrill ***

SAT 2/27

9pm
Soul Asylum
at The Wolf Den, Mohegan Sun, Uncasville, CT
FREE / 21+

Hey, it's far but free -- even cheap with bus ride.

"Come early. Seating is limited." (But you can stand outside and listen, right...?)

SAT 2/27: RSVP for "Othello" Under the Garage

5pm to 6pm
"Othello": Open Rehearsal
at Downstairs at The Garage, 38 JFK St, Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
FREE w/ RSVP

After more than 400 years since this play was created, it's great to see that we can appreciate a well-orchestrated tale of jealousy, racism, scheming, betrayal, more jealousy, even more betrayal, and murder. Iago must be one of the most conniving characters in literature. If you don't go see this production at Villa Victoria (3/10 thru 4/4), I recommend the BBC version with Bob Hoskins in this role.

(Shakespeare knew his stuff -- whoever he was...)

The Actors' Shakespeare Project is active with several productions annually, and it seems like they usually have one or two free events associated with each one. People are invited to a rehearsal that will probably begin with some comments from director Judy Braha, and there will be a talk-back session at the end. By the promotional photos, it looks like the setting has been moved to approximately present-day.

I swear I didn't know there was a performance space in the basement of the Garage until I saw that this company was performing last year. I assume it won't be too difficult to find.

When you RSVP, it might be a good idea to give your name and how many people may be joining you.

If you still want to talk more Othello, some people will head upstairs to John Harvard's.

FRI 2/26: Art, Americana, Garage, Dr Horrible, Rock, Comedy


I wish I could complain about the weather today after a tree branch and a cable fell on my 89 bus out of Davis last night. We only stopped for 15 to 20 minutes before the fire department took care of it and the branch smashed up another car. Pretty cool...

Happy Friday!

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FRI 2/26

4pm to 6pm
"Combat Paper Project": Opening Reception
at President's Gallery, Tower Bldg, about 621 Huntington Ave, Boston (MassArt campus)
FREE

Talk about cathartic! Veterans take their combat uniforms apart and turn it into paper to create art. If you haven't heard about Combat Paper, I read this article last year.

Some 'combat papermakers' will attend the opening.

I wish I knew exactly where this gallery is, but I recall the Tower lobby has a map/directory...

FRI 2/26 (& SAT 2/27)

7:10pm
The New England Americana Festival
at Church, 69 Kilmarnock St, Boston (Fenway)
$10 / 21+

12:15pm -- Highway Ghosts
11:10pm -- Girls, Guns, and Glory
10:30pm -- Coyote Kolb
9:50pm -- The Rationales
9:10pm -- Golden West Motor Lodge
8:30pm -- John Colvert
7:50pm -- Route .44
7:10pm -- They Will Hate Us
Whether it rough 'n ready country a la Merle Haggard or buzzing hurly-burly somewhere between Crazy Horse & The Kinks or dirt-road roots-rock, the twangy-rock love fest continues with 8 more bands on the second of three night. It's a solid night with a big, meaty middle including The Rationales, Coyote Kolb, and '08 Rock N Roll Rumble winners Girls Guns & Glory.

FRI 2/26

7:30pm
"Geezer's Garage Nite"
at Granite Rail Tavern, 16 Cottage Ave, Quincy (near Quincy Center)
$5 suggested

Feat: Preacher Jack (8:30pm), Geezer Deluxe (11:45pm), Kenne Highland & Friends (11pm), Ten Foot Pole Cats (10:15pm), MeteorMight (9:30pm), Joey Fingers (8pm), Bayou Boy (7:30pm)

I personally love hanging out and drinking in Quincy. I'm confident that I've even been to the Granite Rail on a pub crawl, so it's difficult for me to remember much about it. The main attraction for me is the belated birthday party for Preacher Jack who turned 68 a couple weeks ago, which means he's being rockin' the piano for more than 50 years. He's a great guy and a wonder to see.

The rest of the night should be a good bunch of blues and rock for hanging out and drinking in Quincy.

FRI 2/26 (& SAT 2/27)

8pm
"Dr. Horrible's Sing-Along Blog"
at School of Education Auditorium, 2 Silber Way, Boston (BU campus)
$7

Do you remember Dr. Horrible's Sing-Along Blog? It was really cool a couple years ago, and I actually watched the whole thing on YouTube last night. Even after the hype, it was pretty darn good and maybe the best web-only production I've ever seen. When Joss Whedon spearheads a team to create a villain-superhero musical that stars Neil Patrick Harris and Nathan Fillion, how it can it be that bad?

These intrepid BU students will stage their own production this weekend. The original run time is about 45 minutes; it should stretch well past an hour with any interemissions between acts, and they will probably require more transition during the performance.

This ain't Shakespeare, but it's is a charming story of the love triangle between Dr. Horrible, Captain Hammer, and the lovely Penny.

Also SAT 2/27 at 2pm and 8pm; and there will be "a sing-along at the matinee performance"

FRI 2/26

8pm
Logan 5 & the Runners, LipTease, Brite Lite Brite
at Cafe 939, 939 Boylston St, Boston (Back Bay)
$8

It's kind of strange to hear this kind of rhythmic, body-moving music at a venue with no booze, but there are many bars nearby. You can practically stumble out of the Cactus Club into Cafe 939. Heck, you might even have some ecstasy...

It's a electro/synthy night to various degrees. Logan 5 & the Runners are the reason why I feel like posting this gig. They've got a driving, glammy Brit-rock vibe with an array of vintage and sly vocals. It's like having a really good-looking buddy who dresses really well and likes New Order, but he's also a rugby player for example.

I'm guessing L5ATR might go on last with Liptease pump out funky electro with live drums that reminds me of Daft Punk minus the digitized vocals. Brite Lite Brite have received a positive mention in Spin magazine for their breathy, chick-singer acoustic-electronica.

FRI 2/26

The Appreciation Post (Midnight), The Organ Beats (11pm), The Bynars (10pm), Art Decade (9pm)
at TT the Bear's Place, 10 Brookline St, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$10 / 18+

One of my favorite sounds is when you take loud, fuzzy powerpop and add lots of cool keyboards to the mix. We've got a few bands like that in town, and two excellent examples are The Appreciation Post and The Bynars. The Appreciation Post are celebrating a new EP called "Work/Sleep", which can be downloaded for free. (Do it!) Someone pointed out that the cover is an homage to the cover of "Action & Action" by The Get Up Kids. Hey, both look pretty cool to me.

It's little ironic, but I don't think there's a keyboard player in The Organ Beats. The band name is still fits the theme, their sound leans more rock than pop and you can't go wrong when Noelle (from Damone) is singing. Art Decade has got some pleasant indie-rock too.

FRI 2/26

9:30pm
Union Square Round Table: "Starch Party"
at PA's Lounge, 345 Somerville Ave, Somerville (Union Sq)
$8 -- 21+ / $11 -- 18+

There's a lot you can do the "Starch Party" theme. There's a lot humor that can be found in potatoes, and an overstarched shirt is a classic comedy element... Or I could be totally wrong.

This is a pretty fun and funny way to spend an occasional Friday. You may get a feeling that the weird, talented guy down the street has assembled a bunch of his friends to put on a variety show in a basement. It's not a basement, and there's an adjoining bar.

Some of the expected performers: Chris Braiotta, TD Sidell, Ben Dryer, Keira Horowitz, Nick Branigan, Caitlin Roy, Erik P. Kraft, Gretchen Gavett, Katie McCarthy

For the second show in a row, Patrick Bryant of WMBR's "Subject to Change"; he does this thing called Somerville Speakout, which is readings of real (I think) complaint letters.

Musical guest: Banditas give some easygoing rootsiness and female harmonies.

Thursday, February 25, 2010

THUR 2/25: YouTube, Americana, Poetry, Songs, Blues


A friend sent me this email today:

I ended up in front of a woman who didn't seem to notice her car was smoking heavily from the front hood.

I tried to figure out a way to point it out to her when another car pulled up next to her. They honked the horn and pointed at her front hood. So she responded in the best way possible. She flipped them off.

Car just kept smoking more and more, she never seemed to notice. I got the hell away from her as soon as I could.
I love stories like this.

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THUR 2/25

6pm to 8pm
Tournament of 'Tubing
at Bartos Theater, Lower Level, Wiesner Bldg, 20 Ames St, Cambridge (MIT campus)
FREE

I didn't investigate how this will work, but it's a game show claim the title of top Boston Metro "YouTuber". I have a couple ideas: contestants answer questions based on videos that are shown or they go head-to-head to show the coolest videos they've found.

It's free, and it could be funny. I've sometimes enjoy clicking through YouTube now then.

[Facebook]

THUR 2/25 (to SAT 2/27)

6:50pm
The New England Americana Festival -- Night #1
at Church, 69 Kilmarnock St, Boston (Fenway)
$8 to $10 / 21+
11:30pm -- Kinglsey Flood
10:50pm -- Movers & Shakers
10:10pm -- Bean Pickers Union
9:30pm -- Brown Bird
8:50pm -- Bryan Pero & the Tired Horses
8:10pm -- Odessa Rose
7:30pm -- Jeff Bird & the Dirty Finch
6:50pm -- The Accident that Lead Me to the World
What used to be known as the "Alt-Country Extravaganza" has a new alias, but the idea is the same. It started out as one really, really long all-day show has spread out over three nights where dozens of local Alt-Country/Americana bands join forces over a few days for wall-to-wall roots-rockin' goodness.

Every night has a three or four bands that are really strong, and there is nary a clunker to be heard. I've had a chance to listen to the new Kingsley Flood CD for the last couple days and it's tremendously good.

The beauty is that about the term Americana is that it's arms open wide to embrace many. Movers & Shakers may relate to the Americana genre, because they blend a lot of roots music into their punky blend. Bands like Brown Bird and The Accident that Led Me to the World seem more folky to me. On the other hand other bands like Bean Pickers Union and Bryan Pero & the Tired Horses fall deep into the twangy, roots-rock Americana sound.

Considering they're only 1 of 8 performances, I spent too much time trying to find any info about "Odessa Rose".

For the hearty music lover, a three-day pass is available for $20.

THUR 2/25

7pm to 8:30pm
"Phillis Wheatley, First Lady of African-American Letters": Reading & Discussion
at Rabb Lecture Hall, Boston Public Library, 700 Boylston St, Boston (Copley Sq)
FREE

When you consider that Phillis Wheatley was a pre-Revolutionary War slave purchased by a Boston family, I found her poems rather accessible. Besides readings, there will be a discussion about one of the earliest African-American writers that might include Prof. James Smethurst (history & Afro-American Studies, Amherst).

Don't say I didn't find anything to celebrate Black History month...

THUR 2/25

7:30pm
Leo Blais, John Shade, The Neave Quartet, Bo Barringer, Adena Atkins
at Arts at The Armory Cafe, 191 Highland Ave, Somerville (Spring Hill)
$6 advance or door

Okay, so John Shade fooled me. I listened to a few tracks at the beginning of the month when this residency began then a few more last night until I heard one that seemed unusually familiar ("Flashlight"). I dug a little deeper to find that "Shade" is an alias for Dave Godowsky who has plays at Toad occasionally. The Globe wrote him up a couple weeks ago, and today's Metro mocked my ignorance with an article.

He and Leo Blais both deal in literate, bittersweet, hook-laden powerpop that I would've been enjoyable any Wednesday this month (I listed the first two nights). John Shade has been performing with the Neave String Quartet all month and apparently with multi-talented Zack Hickman on bass and fine singer-sonwriter Mark Erelli on guitar.

The guest performers are Bo Barringer from the fabulous MeandJoanCollins and Adena Atkins.

THUR 2/25

9pm
T Model Ford, Ten Foot Polecats, Erin Harpe
at PA's Lounge, 345 Somerville Ave, Somerville (Union Sq)
$10 advance / $12 door / 21+

This is a must-see for all those fan of the raw, primal North Mississippi blues that Fat Possum Records releases. R.L. Burnside, Junior Kimbrough, and many other originals are gone; and you never know when 90-year-old T Model Ford is coming back around again.

I read that he was going to begin his tour in New haven but was convinced to start one day earlier. It's unfiltered blues with guitar and drums.

The Ten Foot Polecats are are a trio influenced by this minimalist, greasy blues and bring their own local take on it. Erin Harpe is a wicked guitarist who revives the the early acoustic Delta blues tunes.

Wednesday, February 24, 2010

WED 2/24: Film & Music


Decisions, decisions... I hate picking something to do tonight. Sometimes there is an events that is clearly my favorite, but every cheapie below is really strong.

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WED 2/24

7:30pm
"An Evening with Jimmy Tingle": Screening & Discussion
at Room 101, College of Communication, 640 Comm Ave, Boston (BU campus)
FREE

When I first saw Jimmy Tingle on a cable standup show, he was a funny guy who would often punctuate jokes with stabs of bluesy harmonica. It was a good gimmick. He still whips out the harmonica although the humor has narrowed to mostly political topics. I saw his "Jimmy Tingle for President" show during the last election, and he addresses the issues in thoughtful ways while finding the laughs.

I watched a clip from his new hour-long documentary "Jimmy Tingle's American Dream" (modesty much?), and it seems like a quite funny and patriotic look at what that term has meant and what it means today. Among those who are interviewed include Howard Zinn, Robert Altman, Mort Sahl, Janeane Garafalo, Sean Hannity, Lewis Black, Al Franken, Robert Reich, and his mother Frances.

I believe Tingle and director Vincent Straggas (a BU grad) will be in attendance.

WED 2/24

8pm to 10pm
The Mieka Canon
at House of Blues, Foundation Room, 15 Lansdowne St, Boston (Kenmore Sq)
FREE with RSVP / 21+

Read below and consider taking a chance. (Remember -- dress code: no sneakers, t-shirts, shorts, or baseball hats)

WED 2/24

Cassavettes (11pm), Hello Ninja (10pm), Twin Thousands (9:05pm)
at TT the Bear's Place, 10 Brookline St, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$9

The fantastic music blog Ryan's Smashing Life always puts a strong show together, and tonight is pretty sweet. Cassavettes are sometimes more rootsy, sometimes more rockin', and always with a bit of twang that you might expect from a band with Austin roots. It's a pleasant surprise when I hear something really good like Hello Ninja for the first time. They've being playing around town, so I don't know why I haven't bobbed my head to their confidently swinging, sassy rock. The real key to feeling cool is to hear Twin Thousands who not only play brilliant, lively indie-pop but they ooze music hipster cool (eg the cellist used to play with Cursive, Bright Eyes, Rilo Kiley, etc).

WED 2/24

9:30pm
"Do It Solo #1"
Feat: Nate Leavitt, Marc Pinansky, Ian Adams
at Lizard Lounge/Cambridge Common, 1667 Mass Ave, Cambridge (between Harvard Sq &
Porter Sq)
$8 / 21+

Tonight is the beginning of a new series of shows that strips rockers of their normal band settings to showcase the essence of their songs with only their voice and instrument. It's meant to be a quiet setting for maximum listening.

The concept is simple, and similar gigs have happened before. I know Sooz, the organizer/curator, is one of the most passionate music supporters around. She's not just slapping arbitrary acts together, she has corralled three excellent songwriters.

Nate Leavitt plays guitar and sings in The Blizzard of 78, one of the best dang anthemic rock groups around, and he's currently working on a solo album. Most days Marc Pinansky is rocking out with his metaphorical cock out in Township; he's pretty damn prolific, so you can occasionally catch him doing solo gigs here and there. Since moving on from his loud, horrorbilly of Rock City Crimewave, Ian Adams has normally been gigging with a drummer on the new solo stuff. Besides going it alone, he designed the poster above (and you may leave with a copy of it).

My apologies for not getting this up sooner, but there may still be a chance to get in for $5 by signing up for Sooz's mailing list that won't feel like spam at all. There's also a 'tweetup' from 7pm to 9pm in the upstairs bar for all the tech-lovin' music. If you tweetup early enough, you could get a free beer.

Tuesday, February 23, 2010

WED 2/24: RSVP for Free Mieka

8pm to 10pm
The Mieka Canon
at House of Blues, Foundation Room, 15 Lansdowne St, Boston (Kenmore Sq)
FREE with RSVP / 21+

Before I say anything more, I strongly encourage anyone to pay to see Mieka Pauley on her own or with band as The Mieka Canon. My goal is to tell you about the cheap and good.

Just listen, and I dare you to tell me you don't like what you hear. Listen until the first chorus, and tell me you didn't want to hear the next one. Even if the lyrics weren't interesting how can that gorgeous voice not cast a spell as it lands in your ear like honey on the tongue?

The words are the last thing I pay attention to, but they usually seem like short stories. While I've described Pauley's work as folky, that tag may belie the ample range of her material especially since she's been performing with a backing band.

Maybe you feel the same way, but these must be some of the reasons why House of Blues has invited The Mieka Canon to perform an intimate gig in the Foundation Room. It seems this has been a periodic happening for the Foundation members, but this could be the last live gig in the upstairs club.

From what I've been told, the band has been given about 100 spots for their own guests to attend. They're still taking RSVP's although already hitting the mark in case more people will be allowed in. All you have to do is send Mieka a message on the website contact page with your name. Mention "House of Blues" in some way and whether you want a +1.

There is a dress code: no sneakers, t-shirts, shorts, or baseball hats allowed. H.O.B. inadvertently let me into this swanky room last week. The dark lighting and Indian decor disoriented me even before my first hurricane. However people were friendly...

Note: Keep in mind that an RSVP doesn't guarantee entry.

TUES 2/23: Pancakes, Gitmo, Haiti, Hip-Hop, Rock


Rock Shop was interesting last night mainly to interact with the bookers of the Middle East, TT's and Great Scott in person. Maybe the other best part was seeing the singer of a Rod Stewart tribute band. I think I picked up a few hints on the topic ("How to book a show"), and I encourage interested musicians to go to the monthly get-together in the future.

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TUES 2/23

7am to 10pm
National Pancake Day
at Participating IHOP Locations
FREE

I already wrote something below. Pancakes are delicious anytime of day. Get a little, give a little. There are a few local options. (Thanks, Maria A!)

TUES 2/23

7pm
Contributors, "The Guantanamo Lawyers": Reading
at Porter Square Books, 25 White St, Cambridge (near Star Market)
FREE

Mark Denbeaux and Jonathan Hafetz have represesented military detainees (or "enemy combatants"), and it may be understandable that people involved with the process may feel that public knowledge may be incomplete.

They've collected more than 100 stories from other lawyers who have represented detainees at Guantanamo, Bagram, and various CIA black sites.

Denbeaux and Hafetz will be joined by 4 other attorneys from the New England area: Steve Oleskey, Melissa Hoffer, Jerry Cohen, and Rheba Rutkowski.

TUES 2/23

8:15pm
Concert for Haiti
at Berklee Performance Center, 136 Mass Ave, Boston (Back Bay)
$10

Berklee does its part to play some good music and help Haiti. The performers include Berklee students, faculty, alumni, and more:

- Berklee Reggae Ensemble
- Pitch Slapped (co-ed a-cappella)
- Women of the World (umm, international music by women)
- Donna McElroy (jazz vocals)
- OAMEC Ensemble (young Haitian violinists)
- Livingston Taylor (another singer-songwriter from the Taylor family)
- Music of the Dominican Republic (Berklee merengues?)
- Brandon Maclin/Darek Cobbs Tribute Band (probably a Michael Jackson tribute)
Proceeds to benefit several organizations including Mercy Corps.

TUES 2/23

9:30pm
Big Shug
at Wonder Bar, 186 Harvard Ave, Allston
FREE

There's no doubt that Big Shug is the real deal since he was part of the early Gang Starr crew, but I wanted to check out his Monday residency before I wrote about it.

Last month's Monday night residency has turned into a Tuesday night thing. My understanding is that a live band starts out, and Shug joins them in the second set.

Don't take my word about Big Shug. Chris Faraone (my main source for what's happening in hip-hop) did a piece on him a little over a year ago.

TUES 2/23

9:30pm
Dan Webb & the Spiders, The Young Leaves, Luau, Bummer
at O'Brien's, 3 Harvard St, Allston
$7 / 18+

If you're looking to hear some new loud/fast rock tonight, there's a good chance that you haven't listened to a couple of these bands. I tried and couldn't hear anything by Bummer, but all of the other groups sound good. It's fun and energetic, and none seem to get way out there just for the sake of being raw and confrontational.

It's a bit hard for me to put Dan Webb & the Spiders into any particular genre compartment other than "rock"; it's straightforward stuff that doesn't veer too far into any niche. It's easy to hear the influences that The Young Leaves list on MySpace; they mention Husker Du, Dinosaur Jr, Archers of Loaf, Superchunk, etc. From song to song seem to emulate their predecessors with good results.

Monday, February 22, 2010

TUES 2/23: Free Pancakes!


7am to 10pm
National Pancake Day
at Participating IHOP Locations
FREE

Even though it's National Pancake Day, most federal and municipal offices will be open tomorrow.

If one is to believe press releases, IHOP gave away more than 800k stacks of pancakes last year. In other words, you won't be alone if you claim your freebie.

However they will suggest you make a donation to support children’s hospitals. The nerve of these people They also claim to raise more money each year. With a quick bit of math, last year's average donation was about $2.

Make a snack or meal out of a short stack (3) of pancakes -- it's still not a bad deal when you include a cup of coffee, a reasonable gratuity, and a small donation.

There's a limit of one stack per person, and you have to eat them there. If you're going to the Brighton and Harvard Sq locations, the best #64/#66 bus transfer is near the nexus of Cambridge St, Brighton Ave, and N. Beacon St.

Or you can just have one stack...

MON 2/22: Crime, Food, Gig Info, Trivia, Drama, Folk, Pop


My apologies for net getting too excited about the Chinese New Year Lion Dance Festival yesterday. I don't know what my problem was the first time I went, but it was pretty enjoyable. There's a lot more fun than most North End festas with the giant dragons and firecrackers.

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MON 2/22

6pm to 8pm
"The Truth About Crime": Screening & Discussion
at Starr Auditorium, Belfer Center, 79 JFK St, Cambridge (Kennedy School of Govt)
FREE

Believe it or not, Oxford is a very average city as far as demographics in England. This is the kind of serious TV that you can find on the BBC -- or at a Harvard forum -- but they studied the crime patterns for two weeks to explore how crime really affects citizens.

Filmmaker (and Crimson alumnus) Roger Graef will participate in the discussion.

MON 2/22

6pm to 9pm
Sprouting Workshop & "Food Inc" Screening
at Somerville Public Library, 79 Highland Ave, Somerville
FREE

6pm: Workshop on how to sprout grains -- Bring a wide mouth glass jar.
6:30pm: "Food Inc."
For my Somerville homes (and whoever else is interested), bring a wide-mouth glass jar and they'll show you how to grow sprouts. It made me think, "Then what do you do?" It turns out that you can eat the stuff.

After the DIY food tutorial and before you go home with all the stuff you need to grow something on your counter top, watch a documentary about mass food production that will probably make you want to get dozens of jars or maybe think about going to the farmers market more often.

MON 2/22

7pm to 9pm
Rock Shop #3: "How Do I Get a Show?"
at Middle East - Downstairs, 480 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
FREE / All Ages

Who knows why these music pros are holding free monthly panel discussions? Maybe because they're tired of dealing with people who don't have clue. In tonight's third program, the subject is quite important -- getting a gig.

Bookers from The Middle East, TT the Bear’s, and Great Scott offer insights on how to influence them. Maybe you can try out some pointers with them afterward...

MON 2/22

7pm to 9pm
"Hospitality Homes Trivia Night"
at The Baseball Tavern, 1270 Boylston St, Boston (Fenway)
$10 / 21+

Most Stump Trivia nights are free, and the prize is a gift certificate for your next bar tab. It's better than a kick to the head yet still not that exciting. Tonight's fundraiser for Hospitality Homes claims there will be prizes for some trivia losers as well with some door prizes, raffles, etc.

The prizes will probably include sports tickets, theater tix, ski stuff, restaurant gift certificates, etc. The last one may be similar to most trivia night prizes, but this benefiting a local nonprofit dedicated to housing the families and friends of patients traveling to Boston for medical treatment.

Teams of up to five people each are welcome.

It's okay to go a little bit hungry, because there should be some free food (alias "early bird buffet") and half-price appetizers all night. Some draft beer will be $2 and other drink specials.

MON 2/22

7:30pm
"Victory Blues" by Alan Brody: Reading
at Boston Playwrights Theatre, 949 Comm Ave, Boston (BU campus)
FREE

Playwright Alan Brody teaches theater at MIT and has written quite a few plays, so there must be a strong chance this is an interesting play. In what sounds like a post-WWII existential drama that seems that probably has meaning in our current national situation, six actors will read the play. The same drama without the sets and dancing...

"All readings followed by wine, cheese and conversation"

MON 2/22

Boy Without God (11:30pm), Ryan Lee Crosby Quartet (10:40pm), The Wailing Wall (9:50pm), Sleepy Very Sleepy (9pm)
at TT the Bear's Place, 10 Brookline St, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$8

With 4 folky-rocky bands at $8, you're only paying $2 per band. For the majority of these groups, I know there's a main creative leader, but it looks like a lot of ensemble support tonight.

When you listen to Boy Without God, you might be struck that deep, deep voice. I don't remember him being so basso profundo in person, but he's got a deep voice and poignant songs and a passionate delivery. Most of the time Ryan Lee Crosby seems to perform solo, but I saw some photos of a video shoot for a song on his last CD, an unrecognizable Bad Brains cover of "Big Takeover". Then there's this 'quartet' show. With really heavy lyrics and delicate delivery, this group gig could be really cool. The Wailing Wall does some pleasant indie-folk that you might catch somewhere in your mind.

MON 2/22

9:30pm
V.V. Brown, Ma'ayan Castel, Yeah Right
at Great Scott, 1222 Comm Ave, Allston
$9 / 18+

For some reason, I thought UK popster VV BRown had already toured through Boston, but this could be her first visit. Give it a lesson, and you might enjoy the modern/organic singer-songwriter approach. Ma'ayan Castel is a jazzy, electro-world-pop performer that sounds and looks quite lovely. Fresh off a performance at Together Boston electronic music festival about a week ago, dance band Yeah Right from Providence has been added as the opener.

Sunday, February 21, 2010

SUN 2/21: Sunday Night Off-Topic Video

Have you ever wanted to smack someone on the bus or train? Someone has done it for all of us.

This Oakland man is probably angry already, and this guy pushes him over the edge.

I think this is real, and I think a friend of the instigator is filming it.

*** Believe it or not, NSFW ***

Saturday, February 20, 2010

SUN 2/21: Travel, Parade, Poe, Monologues, Rock


I noticed a Haiti Benefit concert at Sally O'Brien's that's happening all day long (Noon to 1am). About 20 bands are playing and there are raffles between bands. This article has the most info I found. The suggested donation is either $15 or $20.

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SUN 2/21

10am to 4pm
Boston Globe Travel Show
at World Trade Center, 200 Seaport Blvd, Boston (Seaport)
$10 or less / FREE children 18 and under (with a parent)

If you haven't been on vacation this winter, you have to be thinking about it. Most booths are set up to sell you something, but you can get a bunch of travel ideas. Whether you know where you want to go or not, free info about virtually every destination will be available. I bet you'll find more brochures than you can carry.

There's also presentations and entertainment including cute host of National Geographic's "Word Travels", Julia Dimon, talks about the making of a travel show (10:45am) and Patricia Schultz discusses American & Canadian spots of "1,000 Places to See Before You Die" (11:30am). There will be salsa from Puerto Rico (12:30pm), pipers & drummers (2:15pm), and limbo contest from 2:45pm to 4pm.

I found a discount code (use: MIT2010), that will get you in for free.

For those with a vivid imagination (or access to hallucinogens), just going to the travel show could be almost as good as a vacation...

SUN 2/21

10am to 5pm
Chinese New Year Lion Dance Festival
near Harrison St and Essex St, Boston (Chinatown)
FREE

It's the first Chinatown festival of the Year of the Tiger of about three or four. For most of Sunday, those classic giant lions/dragons will dance through the neighborhood. It's colorful sight on a Sunday where there are loads of places serving dim sum for brunch.

Listen for the sound of music and firecrackers.

SUN 2/21

3pm to 3:45pm
"The Raven in the Frog Pond: Edgar Allan Poe & the City of Boston": Curator Tour
at Cheverus Room, Boston Public Library, 700 Boylston St, Boston (Copley Sq)
FREE

Rob Velella knows his Edgar Allan Poe. Besides being involved with the research for this exhibit, he made a Poe calendar last year. Along with SAT 3/6, a Poe scholar guides you throughout the exhibit that explores his relationship with his hometown and includes rare manuscripts, letters, etc that focuses on his Boston years.

SUN 2/21

7pm to 10pm
"V-Day: A Monologue, A Rant and A Prayer"
at Arts at The Armory, 191 Highland Ave, Somerville (Spring Hill)
$10

It's not Valentines Day, and I'm guessing the V stands for "vagina". This V-Day includes monologues by Eve Ensler and Mollie Doyle. Not much more info was available about this, except proceeds will support their Victim Advocacy Resource Fund of the Victims of Violence Program at Cambridge Health Alliance.

SUN 2/21

9pm
Treat Her Right
at Toad, 1912 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Porter Sq)
FREE

Jim Fitting and David Champagne, along with the great Mark Sandman, had a rocking outfit about 20 years ago called Treat Her Right. Billy Conway was the drummer, but he lives in Montana these days. They had a bluesy flair and solid songwriting.

Why not revive the old tunes after the Sandman tribute concert in September? Tim Gearan, Billy Beard, and Steve Mayone will fill out the band for an evening of great fun.

Sneak Peek: SAT 2/20


Whoops, I forgot I fell asleep with that sappy off-topic post. More forthcoming...

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SAT 2/20

1:30pm
The International Experimental Cinema Exposition
at Institute for Contemporary Art, 100 Northern Ave, Boston (South Boston/Seaport)
$10 / $8 students, seniors.

About 90 minutes of experimental/avant-garde shorts with several of the filmmakers in attendance.

SAT 2/20

9:30pm
Thick Shakes, Hands & Knees, Girlfriends, Quilt
at PA's Lounge, 345 Somerville Ave, Somerville (Union Sq)
$8 -- 21+ / $11 -- 18+

Garage-rock goodness

SAT 2/20

9:30pm
Old New England Weather, Headband, So Sol, Brett Saiia, Rick Berlin
at Lizard Lounge/Cambridge Common, 1667 Mass Ave, Cambridge (between Harvard Sq & Porter Sq)
$8 / 21+

Folkiness

SAT 2/20

10pm
Township Vol. 1 CD Release w/ Ryan Fitzsimmons Band
at Rosebud Bar & Grill (behind Diner), 381 Summer St, Somerville (Davis Sq)
$8

Rawk! and folk

SAT 2/20

10:30pm
Andrea Gillis Band
at Plough & Stars, 912 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$5 / 21+

Rip-roaring rock

Friday, February 19, 2010

Off-Topic: Living at Full Volume


Instead of going to a club and having fun, I went to a wake tonight.

When I woke up this morning, I would've preferred to have a few pops and hear some good tunes; but I'm actually grateful to be reminded how precious every breath of life is.

There were so many mysterious layers to this situation that could fill a novel, but I was especially struck by the sudden death of this man who was originally from Haiti.

There has already been too much sadness in every Haitian family this year, yet it was cathartic to see so much real emotional outpouring.

I felt luckier than everyone else on the train home, because they didn't seem to appreciate the value of the moment.

I've often wanted to retreat in the face of profound sorrow, but tonight implored me to face the sadness and use that energy for something positive.

I also kept thinking about this poem by Dylan Thomas, and I hope to live until my last day.

DO NOT GO GENTLE INTO THAT GOOD NIGHT

Do not go gentle into that good night,
Old age should burn and rave at close of day;
Rage, rage against the dying of the light.

Though wise men at their end know dark is right,
Because their words had forked no lightning they
Do not go gentle into that good night.

Good men, the last wave by, crying how bright
Their frail deeds might have danced in a green bay,
Rage, rage against the dying of the light.

Wild men who caught and sang the sun in flight,
And learn, too late, they grieved it on its way,
Do not go gentle into that good night.

Grave men, near death, who see with blinding sight
Blind eyes could blaze like meteors and be gay,
Rage, rage against the dying of the light.

And you, my father, there on the sad height,
Curse, bless me now with your fierce tears, I pray.
Do not go gentle into that good night.
Rage, rage against the dying of the light.

FRI 2/19: Travel, Art, Rock, Mardi Gras

Okay, I've had meetings and have other distractions today, but things are looking good for future cheapneass. Really!

Did you want to go to the Barstool Sports Mardi Gras Party (below)? You can probably still RSVP.

I read that the South Boston Public Library is celebrating Martha Engler's 100th birthday who used to be the children's librarian. If you grew up in Southie and ever went to the library, you might want to say hello at 3pm today. I'm guess ing there is cake...

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FRI 2/19 to SUN 2/21

Various Times
Boston Globe Travel Show
at World Trade Center, 200 Seaport Blvd, Boston (Seaport)
$10 or less / FREE children 18 and under (with a parent)

Friday: 5:30pm to 9pm
Saturday: 10am to 6pm
Sunday: 10am to 4pm
If you haven't been on vacation this winter, you have to be thinking about it. Most booths are set up to sell you something, but you can get a bunch of travel ideas. Whether you know where you want to go or not, free info about virtually every destination will be available. I bet you'll find more brochures than you can carry.

I found a discount code (use: MIT2010), that will get you in for free.

FRI 2/19

6pm to 9pm
"COLLISION15: findings": Opening Reception
at AXIOM Gallery, Green Street T, about 150 Green St, Jamaica Plain
FREE

In COLLISIONcollective's 15th annual exhibition, the theme is supposed to be about "personal discoveries and observations... scientific, spiritual, and political."

Most of 13 artists have previously participated in COLLISIONcollective exhibits, which grew out of a MIT student art group. Their focus is the relationship between art and technology, so expect various types of video and other multi-media pieces.

Feat: W. Benjamin Bray, Joseph Farbrook, Chris Fitch, John Goodman, Rob Gonsalves, Dave Gordon, Georgina Lewis, Dan Paluska, Roy Pardi, Dan Roe, John Slepian, Mark Stock, Aaron Zinman

FRI 2/19

8:30pm
Ad Frank & The Fast Easy Women, The Motion Sick, The Fatal Flaw, Golden Bloom, Akudama
at Middle East - Upstairs, 472 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$10 / 18+

This is one of those "holy crap!" gigs for me. At various times, I've been effusively enamored with The Motion Sick, The Fatal Flaw, and Golden Bloom. There is enough powerpop/indie-rock among these 3 bands to plaster a big, stupid grin on your face (and mine) for most of the night. I've long considered that Ad Frank has a Bowie-like vibe in terms of clever songsmanship that doesn't bash you over the head -- and coolness in general. This might be the first time I've listened to Akudama, and I'm looking forward to hearing them live.

There are other good rock shows in Central Square tonight, but this is a great one.

FRI 2/19

9pm
28 Degrees Taurus, El Jezel, Broken River Prophet, Metal Feathers
at O'Brien's, 3 Harvard St, Allston
$10 / $7 with RSVP / 21+

On the other side of the river, there's this sweet indie/psych/shoegaze mix that brings together two excellent local bands with a Brooklyn and a Portland group. This is apparently El Jezel's first Boston gig, and I doubt this will be the last we see of them (if we're lucky).

Tell Annie that you're coming, and you might be able to save a few bucks to buy an extra PBR.

FRI 2/19

10pm
Annual Mardi Gras Masquerade Ball and Zulu Parade of the Golden Blade
at Johnny D's, 17 Holland St, Somerville (Davis Sq)
$10

Feat: The Chicken Slacks, The Confederacy of Dumpsters

There is no current website, but I believe Johnny D's and The Chicken Slacks. Does Mardi Gras really need technology? Music and good spirits makes the bon temps rouler...

I'm sure Mickey Bliss will host as he's done for 16 or so years. Besides the funky-funky Chicken Slacks, The Confederacy of Dumpsters are a band that basically gets together every year to play this party. As you can see, people have really get into the mode full swing. Casual dress is obviously accepted.

FRI 2/19 & SAT 2/20

10pm
Township Vol. 1 CD Release
at Rosebud Bar & Grill (behind Diner), 381 Summer St, Somerville (Davis Sq)
$8

Friday: w/ Brownboot
Saturday: w/ Ryan Fitzsimmons Band

Miz Valentine DJ's between sets on both nights

Okay, so the article in The Phoenix gives one the idea that Township feels outside of the Boston music scene. That's fine, guys. You still rock, and people who want a blast of classic, ballsy American rock should still choogle on down to your gigs. The new CD "Township Vol.1" is a compilation of previous releases and includes such ditties as "Beaver Fever" and "Gunnin thru the Nite".

Jordan Valentine does double-duty tonight as the DJ and the soulful singer fronting the swingingly hard-rocking Brownboot. The folky Ryan Fitzsimmons opens tomorrow night.

If you get there early, you could get a free Narragansett...

Special Offer: $15 both nights / $20 both nights + CD

2/19 to 2/21: Boston Globe Travel Show

I will have a full post soon, but if you're thinking about going to this, you shouldn't have to pay.
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FRI 2/19 to SUN 2/21

Various Times
Boston Globe Travel Show
at World Trade Center, 200 Seaport Blvd, Boston (Seaport)
$10 or less / FREE children 18 and under (with a parent)

Friday: 5:30pm to 9pm
Saturday: 10am to 6pm
Sunday: 10am to 4pm
If you haven't been on vacation this winter, you have to be thinking about it. Most booths are set up to sell you something, but you can get a bunch of travel ideas. Whether you know where you want to go or not, free info about virtually every destination will be available. I bet you'll find more brochures than you can carry.

Those who are ready to pull the trigger will also find various discount offers -- especially if you don't mind getting on mailing lists.

There's also an array of seminars and presentations including a couple of Frommers and the author of "1000 Places to See Before You Die".

I found a discount code (use: MIT2010), that will get you in for free.

For those with a vivid imagination (or access to hallucinogens), just going to the travel show could be almost as good as a vacation...

FRI 2/19: RSVP for Mardi Gras Party

9pm
Barstool Sports Mardi Gras Party
at The Paradise, 967 Comm Ave, Boston (near BU)
FREE w/ RSVP

I don't recall ever going to a Barstool Sports party. There will be at least a few sexy women there, because they've been paid to be there.

Other than that, it might be a sausage fest. On the other hand, this could be a place for a woman to meet some men.

Of course, I have no idea what I'm talking about. This could be the perfectly matched party where everyone could go home with someone else -- as long as you drink enough. Just in case, it would be a good idea to stop by a party store for some cheap necklaces; they might even be on sale.

Southern Comfort is a sponsor, so there's a good chance of getting a free SoCo drink...

DJ Lord from Public Enemy is going to spin at some point... Marcus Santos will probably play some great sides too.

At the very least, you'll hang out with your buddies at the Paradise and not pay a cover.

Doors open at 9pm.

(I hope I don't need to remind you to add your name to the RSVP email.)

Thursday, February 18, 2010

THUR 2/18: Talk & Rock


Okay, the main music gig listed is over $10. It's for Haiti, man... And it should be a cool show...

For the record, I appreciate that Chipotle offers a free burrito day when they open a new location. On the other hand, you might want to bring a snack while waiting in the line at the new spot near BU today (11am to 8pm).

Are there any Lowell readers out there? Did you know there's a screening of "The Invention of Lying" ($5) upstairs at The Old Court tonight.

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THUR 2/18

6pm to 7:30pm
"What's So Funny About Edgar Allan Poe?": Discussion
at Abbey Room, Boston Public Library, 700 Boylston St, Boston (Copley Sq)
FREE

Poe is often considered a dour fellow, but remember he was from Boston. Think about all the mean, crusty Bostonians that you know with a wicked sense of humor. Besides the creepy tales he's known for, Poe apparently wrote some funny stuff.

Robert Mankoff (cartoon editor, The New Yorker) joins curator of the BPL exhibit Paul Lewis to talk about the wit of Edgar Allan Poe as well as the author as a subject of humor.

THUR 2/18

7:30pm to 8:30pm
Robert Kirshner, "Putting the Pedal to the Metal: The Mystery of the Accelerating Universe": Lecture
at Phillips Auditorium, Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics, 60 Garden St, Cambridge (between Porter Sq and Fresh Pond)
FREE

Have you heard about dark matter and dark energy? Scientists have a learned a lot about the universe in the last ten years, and they believe 95% of everything falls into these two categories. One of the discoverers of "dark energy" happens to be a Harvard guy, so you can hear about it from one of the sources.

The lectures on Observatory nights are geared towards non-scientists, so don't be intimidated if you're curious. "Lecture followed by viewing through telescopes if weather permits."

THUR 2/18

10pm
Fundraiser for Haiti
at Lily Pad, 1353 Cambridge St, Cambridge (Inman Sq)
$15 Suggested Donation

Feat: Drug Rug, Doomstar!, Jesse Gallagher, Banditas

A couple years ago in a plain room at MIT, I saw Drug Rug give a tremendously performance. Everything felt completely realized for big stages including the songs, the playing, and the overall dynamics. Listen for your own well-being! It's good to see that they've been getting more attention and touring (just back from a outing with Fiery Furnaces), yet they will still do gigs like this.

It's also good to see that Apollo Sunshine is still together, speaking of successful local bands, since Drug Rug is opening for them at The Paradise next month. Bassist/keyboardist Jesse Gallagher has plays gigs around town with various players, so you'll probably hear something off-center and well-played.

Adding to the delightfully trippy ruckus, dig the punchy, melodic Doomstar! and the mellow rootsiness of Banditas.

There's a possibility that it won't be a fully loud show, but it's still going to rock.

THUR 2/18

10pm
The Gobshites
at The Burren, 247 Elm St, Somerville (Davis Sq)
FREE

For lovers of punky Irish folk or folky Irish punk -- whatever you call it, this is the kind of pub-perfect music for drinking that gets me going more than the traditional seisun music that's usually playing in the front room. I could listen to these guys all night, and I think I have...

THUR 2/18

10:30pm
Lars Vegas
at Alchemist Lounge, 435 S Huntington Ave, Jamaica Plain
FREE

Much like Pogues-like tunes are ripe for my beer-drinking soundtrack, I'd probably hanker for a mixed drink when listening to Lars Vegas (or maybe a big glass of gin with an olive). This band has been synthesizing rock and loungey rhythms for a while (their "Junkie Rock Star" was in "Next Stop Wonderland"), so it's so cool that we still can catch this band. Gotta love the witty lyrics spewed out with a cadence that often sounds like a spoken-word artist.

Wednesday, February 17, 2010

WED 2/17: Talk, Film, Haiti, Jazz, Rock


So I went to the House of Blues Mardi Gras party last night. I'm happy to report there was no problem getting it. In fact, everyone was welcomed hassle-free by gaudy-flashing, plastic, souvenir pint glass and a line of Heineken girls giving out green-bead necklaces. I decided to email an RSVP, and I got to roam around the swanky Foundation Room and watch some of the fun from the 2nd floor.

The brass band music combined with the hurricanes hit the spot. The burlesque dances were fun, and Steve Sweeney obviously did a good job as MC. I'll try to post photos in the next couple days.

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WED 2/17

6:30pm
Steven Pinker & Rebecca Goldstein, "Mind-Body Problems: A Conversation About Science, Fiction and God": Conversation
at Thompson Room, Barker Center, 12 Quincy St, Cambridge (Harvard campus)
FREE

When you have a discussion between one of the leading psychologists in the world and a MacArthur Fellow philosopher, there is going to be some cerebral concepts bandied about. I wonder if this will be similar to this husband-and-wife's dinner conversation.

A sample might be found on the Amazon page for Goldstein's latest novel, "36 Arguments for the Existence of God: A Work of Fiction," which has been received quite a few glowing reviews.

WED 2/17

7pm
"Battleship Potemkin"
at Harvard Film Archive, Carpenter Center, 24 Quincy St, Cambridge (Harvard campus)
FREE

Yes, it's a Russian silent film made over 80 years ago. It's also happens to be Sergei Eisenstein's masterpiece and still one of the most influential films of all time for its groundbreaking editing techniques.

The story (a Soviet propaganda film to demonstrate how oppressive the Czars were) may not be the most compelling part of the viewing experience. On the bright side, the only subtitle reading is during the title cards when even Russians are reading.

WED 2/17

7pm to Midnight
Hearts for Haiti Benefit / Soulkore Old School Party
at Milky Way Lounge / Bella Luna, 284 Amory St, Jamaica Plain (The Brewery Complex)
$5 and up -- Suggested Donation

Feat: DJ Nomadik, DJ Rugged One, Lady Enchantress, Pelaiah Auset, Kiki Breevlife, more

DJ Nomadik knows how to throw a dance party and knows old school hip-hop. Many Soulkore nights feature a variety of DJ's and live performers. Tonight's show should also include some Haitian music and maybe a dance performance or two.

It's not a time to nitpick, but this is the second local benefit that's been titled "Hearts for Haiti" and both say the proceeds are going to Partners in Health -- a worthy organization. I wonder what the deal is when a Google search finds all sorts of separate groups called "Hearts for Haiti".

WED 2/17

7:30 pm
Charlie Kohlhase's Explorers Club
at Johnny D's, 17 Holland St, Somerville (Davis Sq)
$10

Longtime Boston jazz saxophonist Charlie Kohlhase has played in a variety of groups over the years. These days he mainly gigs with his Explorers Club that includes another sax, trombone, guitar and two-drummer rhythm section. If that wasn't enough, a percussionist is joining the group tonight along with a trumpeter for a thicker, deeper weave of modern jazz where you'll still hear the influence of the past.

WED 2/17

8pm to 9:30pm
Death Vessel, Lady Lamb The Beekeeper, Mary Lou Lord
at Arts at The Armory Cafe, 191 Highland Ave, Somerville (Spring Hill)
$10

As is becoming quite common, the cafe has another impressive set of established and buzzing artists. I read that Mary Lou Lord is going to book Wednesday night shows at the Armory, and it lloks like she's performing tonight. After starting out busking in the T and finding wide attention in the 90's (and hanging out with folks like Elliott Smith & Kurt Cobain), I'm guessing that performing is more about the joy of music than keeping her MySpace page up to date.

Both Death Vessel and Lady Lamb The Beekeeper will probably be playing solo (and I think both are from Maine). Joel Thibodeau of Death Vessel (who happens to be signer with former grunge-meisters Sub Pop) has a clear, high voice that could be mistaken for a female singer -- amazing stuff all around. It seems like Aly Spaltro of Lady Lamb The Beekeeper is a tiny young woman with a big voice and loads of passionate songs.

WED 2/17

9pm
Humanwine (11:15pm), Walter Sickert & the Army of Toys (10:15pm), Do Not Forsake Me Oh My Darling (9:35pm), Sarah Rabdau (9pm)
at Church, 69 Kilmarnock St, Boston (Fenway)
$8 / 21+

This show, presented by Launch Over, is billed as "Best of 2009", and it is a top-notch line-up including four of the highlights of last year's music scene.

Humanwine released a new CD that expanded on their multi-culture, time-spanning, politically-aware rock while continuing to increase their ambitions. Walter Sickert & the Army of Broken Toys' theatrical, gothy rock-art is always a sight to see and hear. Personally, I discovered last year that Walter Sickert's stage name was also the name of a man suspected to be Jack the Ripper. (I think it's a stage name...)

Bass-drums duo Do Not Forsake Me Oh My Darling played their first full live set last year -- and they were far and away the best project of '09 that was inspired by the '60s spy serial "The Prisoner". I was there at that show, and they rock out with an arty, punky minimalism that doesn't require anything extra. Sarah Rabdau will play without her Self-Employed Assassin drummer for an unadulterated dose of her songs by beautiful voice and keyboards.

(My apologies to HUMANWINE and Sarah RabDAU for using the letter case I prefer.)

Tuesday, February 16, 2010

TUES 2/16: Mardi Gras, Food, Spiritual, Pop, Metal, Rock


Laissez les bon temps rouler!

I got carried away with the variety of cheapness tonight that includes some Mardi Gras fun. Have fun whatever you do...

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TUES 2/16

5pm
Fat Tuesday Party
at Dick's Last Resort, Quincy Marketplace, Boston
No Cover

Music: Sidewalk Driver from 8pm to 11pm

They may be too busy to insult you tonight. The attitude at Dick's is far from professional everyday, so it could be crazy.

The good news is the drinks specials ($2.75 SoCo Hurricanes, $3.50 Harpoon IPA), and the live music is from excellent glam-rock band Sidewalk Driver who have a theatrical flair that will fit the party.

The wearing of feathers and masks will be encouraged. Dick's Last Resort will have some free doubloons, masks and other Mardi Gras crap to get folks in the mood. (It wouldn't hurt to pick up some cheap beads of your own to coax the ladies...)

TUES 2/16

7pm to 9pm
"The Carnivore's Dilemma: How to Eat Meat Responsibly": Discussion
at First Church in Jamaica Plain, 6 Eliot St, Jamaica Plain
FREE


- Cancelled due to Snow, to be rescheduled -

This session must be geared to those who want to go vegetarian (for whatever reasons) but the love the taste of meat too much. The panel will try to guide you in a more sustainable direction and answer your questions.

Feat: Ridge Shinn (cattle farmer, Hardwick Beef), Kim Denney (Chestnut Farm Meat CSA), and Jamey Lionette (formerly Lionette's Market)

TUES 2/16

7pm to 9pm
"Food Fight": Screening & Discussion
at Hall A, Science Center, One Oxford St, Cambridge
FREE

Remember the food fight scene in "Animal House"? That was awesome...

This documentary has nothing to do with it. Perhaps this film could've been a good intro to the organic/local/sustainable food movement if the discussion above was on another night.

Beginning with the introduction of mass-produced agriculture after WWII, the film documents the beginning of the movement back towards small-scale food production -- and how Wolfgang Puck was actually more important than making fancy pizzas.

Filmmaker Chris Taylor and Woody Tasch (Slow Money Alliance) will participate in the discussion after the screening.

TUES 2/16

7:30pm
The Art Music of Black Composers: Spirituals
at David Friend Recital Hall, 921 Boylston St, Boston (Berklee / Back Bay)
FREE

All I know about this concert is that "Berklee faculty and staff perform concert spirituals of black composers." It's going to be beautiful music that will be probably be more uplifting than any time that I've been in church.

Part of "Roots and Reason: A Celebration of American Roots Music"

TUES 2/16

Lovewhip (11pm), Streight Angular (10pm), Naked on Rollers Skates (9pm), Ladderlegs (8pm)
at Church, 69 Kilmarnock St, Boston (Fenway)
$6 / 21+

When it comes to Lovewhip, there's something that tickles my monkeybone. Most electro-pop seems like empty calories, but they serve it up with funky density delight that can appeal to the wallflower and bootyshaker alike. Lovewhip may be our answer to Prince, except it's a funky, electro-jam with female guitar-slinging mastermind.

With Streight Angular, much of the songs are pumping and churning under a pleasant veil of fuzz and are steady and catchy underneath. You only need to hear the name "Naked on Roller Skates" to know you're going to like their blast of indie-pop, and you will like it. Ladderlegs will rock out in their own punky-garagey way.

TUES 2/16

8pm
1-Year Anniversary Mardi Gras Celebration
at House of Blues, 15 Lansdowne St, Boston (Kemmore Sq)
FREE / 18+

Feat: Babes In Boinkland, Black Cat Burlesque, Hot Tamale Brass Band

Just in case that the women in the crowd don't feel like honoring the Mardi Gras tradition for a string of plastic beads, pretty girls will dance on the stage with little clothes on. The NOLA-style Hot Tamale Brass Band is also appearing to keep the good times rolling.

Boston comedy veteran Steve Sweeney hosts. DJ Master Millions spins.

The only place where I saw a mention of a RSVP email was in the flyer. It wouldn't hurt to try it.

Caution: I've heard stories of problems with free events at HOB over the past year.

TUES 2/16

8pm
A Benefit for the Victims of the Haiti Earthquake
at Middle East - Downstairs, 480 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$10 minimum donation / 18+

Feat: Breathing Process, Once Beloved, Mongrel, Feral Children, Meat Hammer

Help for Haiti is getting loud, hard and fast. Feral Children from Washington seem to be the wild-card mong the metal, punk/metal, and black-metal. This band is touring and played another local gig last night. Unlike the others, their sound varies quite a bit with big sections that synthy indie-rock fans would dig that eventually delve into noisier sections.

DJ Clay N Ferno spinning in between sets

Proceeds to benefit the Red Cross.

TUES 2/16

9:30pm
Magic Magic, Old Abram Brown
at Lizard Lounge/Cambridge Common, 1667 Mass Ave, Cambridge (between Harvard Sq & Porter Sq)
$7 / 21+

Of this month's "Tearoom Tuesday" shows this month, Magic Magic may be the biggest surprise. There may not be many more chances to see them in a tiny room like this, since Magic Magic has been garnering a lot of attention in the UK and elsewhere, but it's not too late get into their poppish, retro/psych indie-rock with a two-drummer lineup. I haven't listened much to Old Abram Brown, but they make some very accessible rock that could easily get them noticed on a larger scale.

TUES 2/16

10pm
Aaron Perrino w/ guests
at Alchemist Lounge, 435 S. Huntington Ave, Jamaica Plain
FREE / 21+

For all you Dear Leader/The Sheila Divine fans, frontman Aaron Perrino doesn't play solo gigs around town every week or even every month. It may not be as grand as full band shows, but the songs are still golden on their own. The sets at these shows are usually a healthy mix of songs from both of his bands along with amusing covers. And he may play your request...

(Maybe there'll be guests, maybe not.)

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