Monday, February 28, 2011

MON 2/28: Film, Trivia, Nerds, Rock


I've mentioned Gong Show Karaoke at TT the Bear's Place on more than one occasion. It's a really good time, and it should become more and more popular as much as that would bum me out.

For a few bucks more than $10, the really damn funny Michael Showalter is performing at Brighton Music Hall tonight and doing a booksigning session (4pm to 5:30pm) at Barnes & Noble in Kenmore Square.

--------------------------------------------------------------

MON 2/28

6pm
"Training Day": Screening
at Rabb Lecture Hall, Boston Public Library, 700 Boylston St, Boston (Copley Sq)
FREE

Denzel Washington could've won the Oscar for at leasr a half dozen other roles, but he was pretty awesome as the 'morally ambiguous' cop.

It's the last day of Black History Month, and it looks like this is the last film in the Monday movie series, "Black Gold: African American Academy Award Winners, Part 1". Coincidence?

MON 2/28

7pm to 9:30pm
Boston Skeptics in the Pub: "Trivia Remix"
at Tommy Doyle's, 96 Winthrop St, Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
FREE

Trivia with skeptics? I'm guessing it'll be similar to other pub trivia nights, except more difficult. While being a friendly crowd, they consider themselves to be well-informed, critical-thinking types. There will be a set of acoustic quirkiness from Mikey Gesus as well.

The grand prize will be tix to fringey comedian Tim Minchin's show at the Wilbur Theatre in June.

MON 2/28

8pm
NerdNite: "Extra Sappy"
at Middlesex Lounge, 315 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$5

Talks:

"I'd Tap That: Getting Started with Maple Sugaring"
by Sam Bett & JJ Prior

"I'm sorry for your lossy"
by Ross Maddox
Feat: DJ Claude Money

It's my firm conviction is that you can work any NerdNite topic into the next general conversation you have with practically anyone. At the very least, you open up with, "You know what I heard on Monday?"

Now is the perfect time to hear about taking sap from maple trees and making something delicious. As far as tonight's second presentation, you find out why mp3 files don't sound good -- as opposed to pretending you can hear the difference...

MON 2/28

9:30pm
Dan Webb & The Spiders, The Cold Beat, Hands & Knees, The Scamps
at Charlie's Kitchen, 10 Eliot St, Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
$5 / 21+

Maybe Dan Webb & The Spiders might be the headliners since they're heading out for a month-long tour of Germany and UK. The best band to hear in my opinion is Hands & Knees.

Without knowing much about The Scamps, I'm pretty sure it's going to loud, rocking good time all night. I just happen to dig the way that H&K dial it back for some wonderfully jangletastic indie-rock. There is nothing wrong with the punky Cold Beat or garagey Webb & The Spiders, and you'll be glad to hear to whole gig.

Sunday, February 27, 2011

SUN 2/27: Art, Cookies, Rock


Looks like it snowed just enough the cover the dirty stuff...

--------------------------------------------------------------

SUN 2/27

11am to 4pm
Family Day
at Bakalar & Paine Galleries, South Hall, MassArt, about 621 Huntington Ave, Boston (The Fens)
FREE

Does a young person you know still want to have more fun before the vacation is over? You can take them to MassArt for some art and activities (materials & refreshments provided).

They note: "Please be advised that astatic contains some graphic content that may not be suitable for younger audiences."

So it's a 'bring the kids and don't let them look at the walls' situation...

SUN 2/27

2pm
The Cookie Takedown
at Great Scott, 1222 Comm Ave, Allston
$10 / 18+

There are prizes and prestige at stake for the cookie-meisters. I don't know how many competitors will be there, but it's supposed to be a full roster.

There's probably a couple dozens to eat for the admission. Go early before anyone runs out, then vote for your fave.

Milk will be for sale, but beer goes great with raspberry almond chocolate peanut butter turtles -- or whatever...

Warning: These events do sell out.

SUN 2/27

7pm
SXSW Boston Preview
at Brighton Music Hall
$7 advance

Feat: : Static of the Gods, Endless Wave, Mean Creek, Mystery Roar, The Dirty Dishes, Viva Viva, Banditas, more

For those of us who aren't going to SXSW, this is a chance to experience a scheduled Boston showcase a few weeks in adavance. You don't need to be reminded that there's an array of bitchin' bands in town, but enjoy the variety.

I bet the Converse store on Newbury Street doesn't have anymore free tickets for this gig, but it looks like advance tix are still available.

Friday, February 25, 2011

FRI 2/25: Music, Film, Comedy


If you want to laugh with "The Gas" at Great Scott tonight, I double-checked the date of the issue and the current Weekly Dig has a 2-for-1 admission coupon on page 18. The theme is "Shortest Month of the Year" aka "Chocolate Month" at Dunkin' Donuts. (Did they get enough guff for that?)

Oh, jeez. I almost forgot to tell you to visit (or call) the Converse store on Newbury Street, because you might be able to get a free ticket (while supplies last) for Sunday's "Boston To Austin" show at the Brighton Music Hall preview a very strong SXSW showcase with a bunch of cool bands: Static of the Gods, Endless Wave, Mean Creek, Mystery Roar, The Dirty Dishes, Viva Viva, Banditas and more. Advance tix are $7.

--------------------------------------------------------------

FRI 2/25

6pm
Mrs Danvers
at Apple Store, 815 Boylston St, Boston (Back Bay)
FREE

These ladies are pretty damn awesome, and they're playing at the Apple Store?!

Mrs. Danvers has got a bunch of killer tunes that are equally easy to love while sitting or dancing or shopping. They'll talk about how they use Macs to make music too. Those who guy might be able to tell their friends about it after the band blows up...

FRI 2/25

6pm to 9pm
Kristen Ford
at Bull McCabe's, 366 Somerville Ave, Somerville (Union Sq)
FREE

I've seen the Kristen Ford Band a couple times, and I think she's awesome. She has such a strong positive energy that exudes from her and the songs. It might be impossible to dislike her full-throttle folk-rock. You'll either be 1) blown away, 2) thoroughly refreshed, or 3) unswayed yet admiring of the effort.

FRI 2/25 (to SUN 2/27)

6:15pm
"The Friends Of Eddie Coyle": Screening
at Remis Auditorium, Museum of Fine Arts, 465 Huntington Ave, Boston (The Fens)
$10 / $8 seniors, students

Also:
Saturday 2/26 -- 1pm
Sunday 2/27 -- 2:30pm

There must have been a reissue of 'Eddie Coyle' recently. Or maybe it was the staged play in November based on the novel that reminded people about this classic Boston crime movie.

Besides this weekend at the MFA, you can catch it in a couple weeks at the Somerville Theatre.

FRI 2/25

8pm
"For the Sake of the Song": A Tribute to Townes Van Zandt
at Arts at The Armory Cafe, 191 Highland Ave, Somerville (Spring Hill)
$8

Feat: Greg Klyma, Patrick Coman, Chris Hutchison-Jones

Similar to December's Dylan show, a group of local musicians are paying tribute to a revered songwriter. Unlike the last Sake of the Song gig, there are going to be fewer performers and will draw on Van Zandt's whole career instead of focusing on one album (who had an album titled "For the Sake of the Song").

Expect the singer-songwriters to play some of their material and also discuss how they were influenced by this giant from Texas.

FRI 2/25

Tijuana Sweetheart (11:30pm), Blow Your Face Out (10:40pm), Jason Bennett & The Resistance (9:50pm), Mark Lind & Mike Savitkas (9:15pm)
at Middle East - Upstairs, 472 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$10 / 18+

I don't know how many 30th Anniversary parties that "The Noise" will have, but they're having another rockin' punky bash. If you don't don't know Blow Your Face Out is a J.Geils Band tribute. Mark Lind of Ducky Boys and Mike Savitkas of Death & Taxes will start with an acoustic set.

There's talk of party favors and free beer (probably if you get there early enough).

FRI 2/25

9:30pm
Union Square Round Table: "Great Moments in the History of the Soybean"
at PA's Lounge, 345 Somerville Ave, Somerville (Union Sq)
$10 / 21+

Feat: Will Brierly

I guess this month's version of the comedy/variety show could be diverse. There are a lot of applications for soybeans... Including "soybean magic" from Will Brierly

FRI 2/25 (thru SUN 2/27)

10:30pm
Frank Morey Weekend
at Plough & Stars, 912 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$5-ish

Why not have a celebration for playing a weekly gig at the same club for 5 years? It takes fortitude. (Or maybe complacency?)

The bluesy, raspy troubadour and band will gig 3 nights in a row with special guests and something called a "Moreyorchestra"...

FRI 2/25 (and SAT 2/26)

10pm
Deva Mahal/Fredricks Brown
at The Beehive, 541 Tremont St, Boston (South End)
FREE

I feel like most Boston gigs by this band are always tentative. They rarely list them on any of their various web presences. They are also play a lot of gigs in New Zealand, so who knows what's going on with them.

If they are in town and you're into hearing an incredible singer over soulful/jazzy/funky grooves, this is some really good stuff. It's worth paying a little extra at the bar since there's no cover.

Please Stand By


Yeah, I suck.

But I haven't quit. Friday cheapness on the calendar, stay tuned...

Wednesday, February 23, 2011

WED 2/23: Stories, Silents, Somerville, Sports, Sound


Hey, today is the last day of Bodega's clearance sale that I mentioned on Monday.

The Boston Athenaeum is also open until 8pm tonight, so you can see the Edward Gorey exhibit that I mentioned last Monday. It's really cool and worth the suggested $5 donation (which is just a suggestion into a box).

--------------------------------------------------------------

WED 2/23

6:30pm to 9pm
"Smut Slam": Story Slam
at Kennedy's Midtown, 42 Province St, Boston (Downtown Crossing)
$5 / 21+

Feat: Cameryn Moore the Phone Whore

About 8 to 10 people will be chosen to tell their sexy stories at what is probably Boston's first Smut Slam.

I'm not sure what you'll win, but you'll certainly have some bragging rights, because the story is supposed to be true. There are other "story slam rules", but each person will get 5 minutes.

Tonight's theme: "I didn’t know..."

As in discovery, exploration, surprise -- or: "I didn't know I could fit that many anal beads in there!"
During the intermission, there'll be a separate "Iron Smut" contest where people will have a chance to challenge hostess Cameryn Moore (aka the Phone Whore) in a 2-minute improve using 3 randomly chosen words.

If you don't have a story, you can listen. You cheeky monkey...

WED 2/23

7pm
"Safety Last", "The Immigrant", "The Pawn Shop": Silent Films
at Harvard Film Archive, 24 Quincy St., Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
FREE

The main feature of this silent film night is "Safety Last", a 70-minute comedic romp starring Harold Lloyd that culminates in that famous scene where he's hanging from the building clock.

"The Immigrant" and "The Pawnshop" stars Charlie Chaplin as "The Tramp" who is moving to America in one and trying to keep his job in the other.

WED 2/23

7pm
"The History of Somerville, 2010-2100": Presentation
at Somerville Public Library, 79 Highland Ave, Somerville (Spring Hill)
FREE

I saw the August '10 version of this slide-show presentation during an event in Union Square, and it was a funny and interesting predictions for Somerville's future.

Anyone can join the fun at the end by sharing their visions of the future.

WED 2/23

7:30pm
Learning Community: Bob Ryan, "Talking Sports!"
at First Church in Boston, 66 Marlborough St, Boston (Back Bay)
FREE

As I read the info about this event is that it's too late to RSVP for the 6pm dinner ($10), but you can still show up to hear Bob Ryan.

I imagine he'll take questions at the end about any topic besides Jason Kidd's wife.

WED 2/23

8pm
"A Night of ExperiMENTAL Comedy"
at ImprovBoston, 40 Prospect St, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$7

Tonight: "Save the Date" & "Cher: A Love Story"

In a two-part show, one group will likely base their improve dating scenarios on suggestions form the crowd.

My interest is really piqued by an actress who created a one-woman show based on Cher a couple years ago. If you start with a ludicrous premise, there should be some laughs ahead...

WED 2/23

8:30pm
Chandler Travis Philharmonic, Ramona Silver
at Lizard Lounge/Cambridge Common, 1667 Mass Ave, Cambridge (between Harvard Sq & Porter Sq)
$5 / 21+

While Chandler Travis reigns over the summer Cape music scene with The Incredible Casuals, he normally plays in the Boston area backed by his 'Philharmonic'.

The CTP debuted 15 years ago at the Lizard Lounge, so why not celebrate with a Wednesday residency? I happen to love his wacky brand of genre-skipping good-time rock. Yikes, it's the last Wednesday -- this month goes by so fast.

Whether or not Ramona Silver is a stage name, it's still has a good ring to it. As do her super-catchy tunes. Good stuff!

WED 2/23

9:30pm
earthquake party!, Thief Thief, Arvid Noe, The Big Big Bucks
at Great Scott, 1222 Comm Ave, Allston
$7 / 18+

Earthquakes happen all the time, and I doubt that anyone in earthquake party! advocates for destructive tremors like New Zealand this week. I think their fuzzy, juicy lo-fi pop is meant to shake you into a party mood.

For a night of semi-seismic good times, they're joined by proggy/mathy guitar-drums duo Thief Thief, chaotic indie-slack of Arvid Noe (named after an early AIDS patient?), and garagey-poppy rock of The Big Big Bucks.

Tuesday, February 22, 2011

TUES 2/22: TV, Dance, Tiger Mama, Comedy, Rock


Dang, there are a lot of "twos" in today's date...

--------------------------------------------------------------

TUES 2/22

6pm
"Brick City: The Story of Newark": Screening & Conversation
at Belfer Center, 79 JFK St, Cambridge (Kennedy School of Govt)
FREE

With: DaShaun "Jiwe" Morris, Garry McCarthy, Marc Levin, Robert Behn

Newark's reality program tries to add some narrative tension by not only focusing on the newsworthy personalities like Mayor Cory Booker or the police director Garry McCarthy (who is in attendance tonight) by also following the stories of citizens like reformed gang-members (like another panelist DaShaun "Jiwe" Morris).

One of the "Brick City" creative team, Marc Levin, will also be on the panel that will have a discussion after screening the second season premiere.

TUES 2/22

7pm to 8:30pm
"Boston Ballet's Dance Talk"
at Tsai Performance Center, Boston University, 685 Comm Ave, Boston (BU campus)
FREE

As I said on Friday when there was a similar program at Harvard: I'm not a ballet connoisseur, but I think it's a rather good deal to see some Boston Ballet dancers perform a few pieces and discuss it for free instead of paying $25-and-up to watch a complete program.

TUES 2/22

7pm
Amy Chua, "Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother": Discussion
at Harvard Book Store, 1256 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
FREE

With all of the uproar about this book's controversial positions on parenting, one would think that people would pay an admission fee just for the chance to confront her (with some point that has been made many times before).

Maybe there are some concepts from Chua's traditional Chinese parenting regimen that can be implemented in a Western family... Or not...

TUES 2/22

9pm
Comedy Night
at Enormous Room, 567 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
FREE

Feat: Ryan Douglass, Will Noonan, Kate Ghiloni, Cam MacNeil, Lillian DeVane, Laura Crawford, Jenny Zigrino

There are some funny people that could make you happy that you went out for a laugh, and you don't have to pay a cover.

TUES 2/22

9:30pm
Beware the Dangers of a Ghost Scorpion, Ketman, Mighty Tiny
at Great Scott, 1222 Comm Ave, Allston
$7 / 18+

If I was going to listen to some bands tonight, this would be where I'd be.

Between the Carnevale-masked theatricality of Mighty Tiny and the bandit-style handkerchiefs on the surf-rockers Beware the Dangers of a Ghost Scorpion, you have the loose-tight post-punky rock with horns.

Monday, February 21, 2011

MON 2/21: Sneaks, Stage, Film, Music


If you have some time during the day, you should check out the art exhibit at the Cyclorama that I mentioned on Saturday. I might go today...

--------------------------------------------------------------

MON 2/21

11am to 6pm
Bodega 4th Annual Sale
at Fourth Wall Project, 132 Brookline St, Boston (near Fenway Park)
50% to 70% off

In previous years, this sneaker boutique would have their clearance sale of "old inventory and odd sizes" at their shop near Berklee / Christian Science Plaza, but the Bodega guys also organize the Fourth Wall Project art gallery so they're having this over there.

Everyday the discount gets deeper:

Monday -- 50% off
Tuesday -- 60% off
Wednesday -- 70% off
Usually the last 2 hours of the sale are even cheaper, but there may not be much left.

I DO recommend visiting the store, because the sliding-door through the fake vending machine is cool.

MON 2/21

7pm
"Curse of the Starving Class": Staged Reading
at Calderwood Pavilion, Wimberly Theatre, Boston Center for the Arts, 539 Tremont St, Boston (South End)
FREE

The people who bring you free Shakespeare in the Common every summer are presenting a staged reading of a a Sam Shepard play. From what I can tell, some people love it and some are not impressed at all.

Set on a struggling farm in the '50s, a "drunken dreamer of a father, burned-out mother, rebellious teenage daughter, and idealistic son" symbolize different perspectives on the crumbling American Dream.

There's some star power involved tonight as Chris Cooper and his wife Marianne Leone Cooper (who live in Mass) portray the mother and father. The reading is directed by actor Jim True-Frost, the cop-turned-teacher on "The Wire".

MON 2/21

7pm
"Welcome": Screening
at Room 008, Devlin Hall, 140 Comm Ave, Chestnut Hill (BC campus)
FREE

This movie about an Iraqi Kurd refugee living in Calais was nominated in almost major category last year at the French equivalent of the Oscars.

I watched the trailer, and I was already getting emotional about the kid wants to swim across the English Channel to reunite with his love who is aided by French swimming coach who is breaking up with his wife. Love, courage, and immigration are some of the big topics in this flick (French with subtitles).

MON 2/21

8:30pm
Dan Blakeslee, Tiger Saw, Tan Vampires
at Precinct, 70 Union Sq, Somerville (Union Sq)
$5-ish

Singer-songwriter is in the midst of Monday residency, and this is a good folky/indie lineup (from Newburyport and northwards) besides Dan's compelling, literate folky tales. Tiger Saw is a regularly changing collective that revolves around songwriter Dylan Metrano; whatever they do, I always cock my head and listen when hear that forlorn voice tell peculiar stories on top of folky chamber-pop. When I listen to Tan Vampires, I think of Damien Rice or Antony & The Johnsons not in a derivative way, but fans of those guys should dig the TV's.

I suspect the music will start at this earlier-than-usual time, but I didn't find the cover info. My guess is based on other music nights, and the likelihood that there may be a lower (maybe free?) admission on a Monday.

MON 2/21

9:30pm
Gong Show Karaoke
at TT the Bear's Place, 10 Brookline St, Cambridge (Central Sq)
FREE / 18+

When I joined the fun it was a lot of fun, even for a relatively small crowd. When you think about karaoke at a divey bar, you might imagine what goes on at Gong Show Karaoke. It's loose and casual, and they kick it up a notch with the panel of judges who may gong you in mid-song -- like the old TV show.

The vibe is still generally positive. MC Tommy Somerville is a cool, funny guy (and possibly the loudest person I've ever met). Usually a band serves as the judging panel.

The point is to go and have fun and not worry about how good you are. The top 2 people do win prizes like a discount on your bar tab or a pair of tix to a TT's show.

Although listed on the site as 8:30pm, the action really starts around 9:30pm.

MON 2/21

10pm
The Humanoids, The Uncomfortables
at Charlie's Kitchen, 10 Eliot St, Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
$5 / 21+

It's metal night at Charlies, and I think only 2 bands are playing but you don't need more than The Humanoids anyway. It's all killer-no filler with this local band that has been together on and off since '98 and suggest that they'll never really split up even though one guy has moved away.

Like the Humanoids, the Uncomfortables get metal with a pink edge.

Saturday, February 19, 2011

SUN 2/20: Magic, Art, Rock


Are you having a long weekend? I'm not sure if there's anything better than lolling around on a Sunday. Still, it's not bad to go out on a Sunday night if you don't have to work on Monday.

I can't get too excited for Harvard Square's Chinese New Year. I was in Chinatown last week to see some that celebration, and it just seems to make more sense in that neighborhood.

For a couple bucks more than $10, Tommy Stinson (ex-Replacements, etc) is doing an acoustic gig with Mike Gent of The Figgs at Church, which could be pretty cool.

--------------------------------------------------------------

SUN 2/20

3pm & 6pm
Mass Magic Show
at The Midway Cafe, 3496 Washington St, Jamaica Plain
$10 / All Ages

Feat: Chris Bolter, Mat Franco

A little magic and humor for an hour (or two?) might be an interesting afternoon diversion. These guys look like rather entertaining.

SUN 2/20

7pm to 10pm
David Bodhi Boylan & Travis McCoy Fuller, "Brain Stain": Performance
at Meme Gallery, 55 Norfolk St, Cambridge (Central Sq)
FREE

Now that football is over, it's obviously time for Sunday night performance art. Both are performing new pieces. I've been to the gallery a few times, and some stimulating and strange stuff goes on. One can't hide in here, but one isn't forced to stay...

SUN 2/20

8:30pm
Ron Holbrook Memorial Benefit - Night #2
at Great Scott, 1222 Comm Ave, Allston
$10 / 21+

Feat: Refuse Resist, The Welch Boys, Burning Streets, The Damaged, The Murder, The Snipes, Lenny Lashley (acoustic)

Are you ready for another kick-ass night of punk rock? It's okay if you missed the first night. It doesn't matter if you want to win a raffle or want to help a worthwhile organization like the Pine Street Inn. The music will still rock. From Darkbuster's Lenny Lashley doing his acoustic thing to all of the other band's hardcore attack.

SUN 2/20

10pm
Sea Monsters
at Precinct, 70 Union Sq, Somerville (Union Sq)
$7-ish / 21+

Feat: Ryan Montbleau

For about 3 years, Christian McNeill and Jesse Dee made Sunday nights something to almost look forward to with a regular gig at Precinct. They and their cohorts couldn't keep the big rootsy/soulful party with horns, but you can probably expect these reprise gigs on 3-day weekends.

Ryan Montbleau may just be bringing his jammy self, but you never who will show up. I saw that a chunk of RMB was playing a gig at Toad the other night.

SAT 2/19: Art, Talk, Film, Music


Ugh, here is cheap stuff.

--------------------------------------------------------------

SAT 2/19 (thru SAT 2/26)

Noon to 5pm
Peter Hoss & Eli Keszler, "CycSpecific": Gallery Exhibit
at Cyclorama, Boston Center for the Arts, 539 Tremont St, Boston (South End)
FREE

Gallery Hours:
Monday thru Friday -- 9am - 5pm
Saturday -- Noon to 5pm

Looking at the websites of the two artists, one might guess the site-specific installations are going to be abstract and dynamic with a lot of 'found' material.

It's an interesting project because there are many spoken-word & musical performances as well as talks & workshops during the week in conjunction. The 10pm shows are $10 (2/19, 2/23, 2/25, 2/26), and the free workshops/talks occur during days/evenings on 2/20, 2/21, 2/23, 2/24, and 2/27.

SAT 2/19

2pm to 4pm
Bijan C. Bayne, "The History of Negro League Baseball in Boston & Southeastern New England": Lecture
at Grove Hall Public Library, 41 Geneva Ave, Dorchester (near Franklin Park Zoo)
FREE

I can't be the only person that finds the history of Negro League Baseball to be interesting. Of course, DC-based Roxbury native Bijan C. Bayne has written books and articles, presented at GWU, and will speak at Harvard next month on the topic.

SAT 2/19

7pm
Double Feature:
"Beauty and the Beast" (1946), "Histoire(s) du Cinéma: Fatale Beauté"
at Bright Screening Room, Paramount Theatre, 559 Washington St, Boston (Downtown Crossing)
$10 / $5 students

If you haven't seen Jean Cocteau's "La Belle et La Bete", then you've only seen cheap imitations of this classic tale. Even with technical limitations of 60+ years ago, there is a beauty unsurpassed in any version since.

Also screening is an episode of Jean-Luc Godard's 'history of cinema' series from 1997 titled "Fatal Beauty".

Both are in French with English subtitles.

SAT 2/19 (and SUN 2/20)

8:30pm
Ron Holbrook Memorial to Benefit the Pine Street Inn
at Great Scott, 1222 Comm Ave, Allston
$10 / 21+

Night #1: The Welch Boys, The Blue Bloods, Dead Friends, Beantown Boozehounds, Full Powered Halo

Night #2: Refuse Resist, The Welch Boys, Burning Streets, The Damaged, The Murder, The Snipes, Lenny Lashley (acoustic)

Ron Holbrook was the original drummer for The Welch Boys, and he passed away in '07. Every year since then, many comrades in punk pay tribute by bashing it out one after the other. Some are mainstays, and some rotate to keep it fresh I assume.

Either night is a jampacked punk-rock jamboree with raffles and no chance to have a bad time.

All of the proceeds will benefit the very worthy Pine Street Inn.

SAT 2/19

The Gilded Splinters (11pm), The Dirty Truckers (10pm), Tad Overbaugh & The Late Arrivals (9pm)
at Precinct, 70 Union Sq, Somerville (Union Sq)
$8-ish

All three are solid rootsy, twangy rock. Can't go wrong if you're in the mood for an Americana party.

SAT 2/19

St Helena (Midnight), Muy Cansado (11pm), This Blue Heaven (10pm), Leo Blais (9pm)
at Middle East - Upstairs, 472 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$10 / 18+

Wow, another show where there isn't a bad band. A top-notch night of rockin' indie-pop.

SAT 2/19

10pm
Beer Muscles
at Toad, 1912 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Porter Sq)
FREE

Keyboardist Marc Scortino used to play with Burlington band Raq and the bassist, drummer, and violist from The Ryan Montbleau Band are joining him.

Friday, February 18, 2011

FRI 2/18: Talk, Film, Dance, Rock


So I gambled in an attempt to cover several of the upcoming days in an early post, but it didn't pay off as I had hoped. On the bright side, I think I'm in better shape than before...

A tribute show to mark the anniversary of Bon Scott's death almost made my list. Downstairs at the Middle East, a couple AC/DC tribute bands are rocking out along with a rock-comedy group and another covers band.

--------------------------------------------------------------

FRI 2/18

6:30pm to 7:30pm
Sou Fujimoto, "Primitive Future": Lecture
at Piper Auditorium, Gund Hall, 48 Quincy St, Cambridge (Harvard campus)
FREE

When I looked at some of Sou Fujimoto's buildings, I was reminded about the saying, "Talking about music is like dancing about architecture."

I'm sure (I hope) these buildings are structurally sound, but there is a fanciful, math-puzzle grace to his designs that seem atypical but function in a clever, efficient way. If one were to get poetic, some look like wood and cement began to dance and froze into place.

FRI 2/18 (and SAT 2/19)

7pm
Double Feature:
"Beauty and the Beast" (1946), "Histoire(s) du Cinéma: Fatale Beauté"
at Bright Screening Room, Paramount Theatre, 559 Washington St, Boston (Downtown Crossing)
$10 / $5 students

If you haven't seen Jean Cocteau's "La Belle et La Bete", then you've only seen cheap imitations of this classic tale. Even with technical limitations of 60+ years ago, there is a beauty unsurpassed in any version since.

Also screening is an episode of Jean-Luc Godard's 'history of cinema' series from 1997 titled "Fatal Beauty".

Both are in French with English subtitles.

FRI 2/18

7pm
"Boston Ballet Dance Talk"
at Harvard Dance Center, 60 Garden St, Cambridge (near Radcliffe Yard)
FREE

I'm not a ballet connoisseur, but I think it's a rather good deal to see some Boston Ballet dancers perform a few pieces and discuss it for free instead of paying $25-and-up to watch a complete program.

On Saturday night, it looks like performance artist Tim Miller is giving a free performance at the same time and venue.

FRI 2/18

9pm
"Winter Rock Formal"
at Church, 69 Kilmarnock St, Boston (Fenway)
$8 / 21+

Feat: Gene Dante & the Future Starlets (11:30pm), Parlour Bells (10:30pm), Highly Personal Trash (9:30pm), Valentine's Dating Game (9pm), DJ Dave Duncan

One doesn't have to get gussied up to attend the Winter Rock Formal, but other people will be dressed accordingly. Regardless of attire, it's nice to see something where you could just listen to the tunes or embrace the "high school dance" theme that's not on V-Day. Heck, they're starting the night with something like "The Dating Game" (that will probably include a performer or two)!

I wish my prom would've had 3 sweet bands or even any one of tonight's line-up whether it's the glam-rock of Gene Dante, Parlour Bells' moody pop, or the lovely sounds of the lovely singer-keyboardist Sophie Innerfield and her recently-beefed-up rhythm section.

DJ Dave Duncan of WFNX will spin some appropriate discs before and after the bands. And there will be a 'photobooth' too.

FRI 2/18

9:30pm
Muck & The Mires, Wicked Whiskey, The Acro-brats, Organs
at Rosebud Bar & Grill (behind Diner), 381 Summer St, Somerville (Davis Sq)
$5 / 21+

It's been about 6 months since Muck & The Mires have played a local gig. They've got this another show in March before they head to SXSW. These guys are super-solid who merge classic garage/Mersey rock and punk vitality in equal measure. They deserved being crowned the best garage-band in the country a few years ago.

There is some quality punk, punkabilly, and bluesy garage-rock leading up to the main event.

Wednesday, February 16, 2011

WED 2/16: Lit, Black History, Music


Oh, how I love how Robert Burns wrote:

The best-laid schemes o' mice an 'men
Gang aft agley,
An'lea'e us nought but grief an' pain,
For promis'd joy!
--------------------------------------------------------------

WED 2/16

7pm
Joseph McElroy, "Night Soul and Other Stories": Reading/Signing
at Harvard Coop, Level 3, 1400 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
FREE

This is one of the serious American authors that people read their gargantuan books to impress other people. I bet his short stories are long and complex too.

Still it's pretty cool that a 80-year-old literary bad-ass comes around and will read and and talk about his work.

WED 2/16

7pm
"Remixing Race Through Film": Discussion
at Museum of Science, 1 Science Park, Boston
FREE w/ RSVP

Feat: Llewellyn Smith, Christine Herbes-Sommers, Alan Goodman PhD

As president and vice president of Vital Pictures, Smith and Herbes-Sommers have worked on PBS shows such as "Race: The Power of an Illusion", "Unnatural Causes: Is Inequality Making Us Sick?" and "Herskovits at the Heart of Blackness".

Yeah, folks. They're going to be talking about race. And social justice. Through film, which they'll show some of their clips. It's Black History Month, innit? Alan Goodman of Hampshire College joins the conversation.

Registration required.

WED 2/16

7pm
"Working Words: Punching the Clock and Kicking Out the Jams": Reading
at Porter Square Books, 25 White St, Cambridge (near Star Market)
FREE

Feat: M.L. Liebler, Al Kooper, X.J. Kennedy, Gary Metras, Jennifer Gillan, Maria Mazziotti Gillan, David Connolly, Michael Casey

This would be a good event for Labor Day or May Day, since it's a compendium of tales about workers and working from a variety of people including Woody Guthrie, Walt Whitman, Willa Cather, Bob Dylan, Eminem, Emily Dickinson, John Sayles, Andrei Codrescu, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, Clifford Odets, Dorothy Day, Michael Moore, Jack White, and the readers tonight like the anthology's editor ML Liebler and rock legend/Somerville resident Al Kooper.

WED 2/16

7pm
"Within Our Gates"
at Harvard Film Archive, 24 Quincy St., Cambridge (Carpenter Center/Harvard campus)
FREE

Can you imagine a 1920 silent film about African-American woman who visits the North but decides to go back home and open a school for poor children?

It's not a great film, although it could be an interesting glimpse at early African-American filmmaking.

WED 2/16

8:30pm
Chandler Travis Philharmonic, Jennifer Kimball
at Lizard Lounge/Cambridge Common, 1667 Mass Ave, Cambridge (between Harvard Sq & Porter Sq)
$5 / 21+

While Chandler Travis reigns over the summer Cape music scene with The Incredible Casuals, he normally plays in the Boston area backed by his 'Philharmonic'.

The CTP debuted 15 years ago at the Lizard Lounge, so why not celebrate with a Wednesday residency? I happen to love his wacky brand of genre-skipping good-time rock. There should be something different happening every week.

WED 2/16

9:30pm
Tristan Da Cunha, Concord Ballet Orchestra Players, Leagues, Sam Moss
at Great Scott, 1222 Comm Ave, Allston
$7 / 18+

For the most part, it's a night of arty/noisy math-rock from Tristan Da Cunha and Leagues.

Believe it or not, Concord Ballet Orchestra Players are a largish, kraut-rock-inspired, improvisational, instrumental band that are releasing a "double cassette" album package called "First Annual North Falmouth Organ Slaughter". Yikes! With some open ears, it's really rather good.

Sam Moss will gently ease you into the sonic adventure ahead with intricate solo acoustic guitar works.

Tuesday, February 15, 2011

TUES 2/15: Talk, Film, Rock


It's the 15th of the month, and Anna's Taqueria is giving out a freebie to their customers in celebration of their 15th anniversary. If you buy a burrito, taco, quesadilla or a 'plate'; you'll get free chips & guacamole today.

Maybe next month's giveaway will be an "Et tu" Caesar salad...

--------------------------------------------------------------

TUES 2/15

6pm
Wendy Kopp, "A Chance to Make History": Discussion
at Rabb Lecture Hall, Boston Public Library, 700 Boylston St, Boston (Copley Sq)
FREE

With, Director of Center for Public Leadership at Harvard’s Kennedy School of Government and CNN Senior Political Analyst

Hats off to Wendy Kopp for conceiving of the Teach for America program as her senior thesis in 1989, and over the subsequent decades there have been thousands who spend 2 years teaching in low-income communities to improve 'educational equity' in the country.

If you want to hear some ideas about improving our educational system, it would behoove you to hear Kopp speak to David Gergen about her new book. (Her proceeds from book sales will sponsor TFA corps members in urban and rural communities).

There is a chance to RSVP, but it doesn't guarantee a seat. Maybe you get priority access when the doors open at 5:15 pm.

TUES 2/15

7pm
"Mystic River": Screening
at The Modern Theatre, 525 Washington St, Boston (Downtown Crossing)
FREE

Although "The Friends of Eddie Coyle" is the granddaddy of Boston crime novels, novelist Dennis Lehane has created an impressive oeuvre by taking trips to the dark underbelly around us.

I missed "Gone Baby Gone" last night, but there are still a few nights in this Lehane retrospective -- including "Shutter Island" tomorrow and an "Evening with Dennis Lehane" on THUR 2/17.

TUES 2/15

9pm
"The Crushers Take the E-Room"
at Enormous Room, 567 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
FREE / 21+

This kind of extravaganza actually deserves an enormous room, but the Enormous Room will have to do...

Awesome local music blog Boston Band Crush is thowing one helluva party that includes the 'world premiere' of the "One Night Band 2010" video.

Some of the participants will reunite for live acoustic sets: the trio of ladies from 10 Hours of Chaos, a couple of Voltron ForceFlex (so no full Voltron power?) who'll be joined by Sidewalk Driver's Tad Mckitterick, and a few players from I Like Your Leather. Of course, the DJ will play local tuneage and audio from One Night Band.

For all you lovers of free stuff, there will be a chance to win (I assume?) giveaways like free tickets to several cool shows in the next couple months, a Boston Band Crush t-shirt, and maybe a kiss from BBC dude Richard Bouchard...

[Facebook]

Want to see something creepy look at the full-size image of the flyer. (Those are human eyes on the Muppets!)

Monday, February 14, 2011

MON 2/14: Gorey & Music


Happy V-Day, folks. I don't get excited about this greeting-card holiday, but that doesn't mean can't enjoy special time with someone.

I did list a couple ideas last week that could be used any time.

--------------------------------------------------------------

MON 2/14 (thru FRI 6/3)

Various Times
"Elegant Enigmas: The Art of Edward Gorey"
at Boston Athenaeum, 10 1/2 Beacon St, Boston (Beacon Hill)
$5 Suggested Donation

MON & WED -- 9am to 8pm
TUES, THUR, FRI -- 9am to 5:30pm
SAT -- 9am to 4:30pm

This is one bit of quirky fun might not be too crowded tonight. I know there's quite a healthy goth scene around, so pale lovers dressed in all black might want to enjoy the dark wittiness of the Edward Gorey exhibit.

On the other hand, few may actually be aware of the Athenaeum that is practically hidden about a block away from the State House.

MON 2/14

7pm
"Big Night Out"
at The Burren, 247 Elm St, Somerville (Davis Sq)
$5 / 21+

Feat: Molly Zenobia, Allison Weiss, Kristen Ford Band, Mercedes, DJ Blaze

It's not a 'big night out' specifically because of V-Day. This is a monthly "Queer Friendly Live Music and Dance Party" that happens to fall on the 14th. All are welcome to listen to the folky and soulful performances, dance to the music, and have a good time.

MON 2/14

9pm
"Valentine's Day Cheap Date"
at Great Scott, 1222 Comm Ave, Allston
$7 / 18+

Feat: Ted Billings, Emeen Z, Eldridge Rodriguez, Noel Kelly, Mike Fiore, Ryan Lee Crosby

I assume that these guys who mainly play in full bands are going to be relatively quiet and maybe even romantic. There are so many love songs in the history of music, so everyone can fill their sets without any repeats...

Ryan Lee Crosby is doing one of those "cover song per day" projects, and he posted "My Funny Valentine" today.

MON 2/14

10pm
Triple Thick, Banditas, Volcano Kings, Sister Spaceman
at Charlie's Kitchen, 10 Eliot St, Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
$5 / 21+

As usual, there's bunch of kick-ass rock at Charlies on Monday night. It looks like Triple Thick and Sister Spaceman will serve as garage-rock book-ends along with the rootsy, twangy indie-rock of Banditas and the instrumental swing of Volcano Kings.

MON 2/14

10pm
Mmoss, Andy Maher Candy Bar, Roland & Jane
at ZuZu!, 474 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
FREE / 21+

Like Charlie's Kitchen, Zuzu usually has cool live performances on Monday. Spend a little time with that special someone in a psychedelic saunter through the Summer of Love with Mmoss. I have to think that Andy Maher Candy Bar is a name that rhymes; still it's a tasty treat of lo-fi pop. Of course there's no web presence for Roland & Jane, because it's supposedly a new project by Jesse of Apollo Sunshine and Anna of Quilt.

Sunday, February 13, 2011

SUN 2/13: Sunday Night Off-Topic Video

While I do attempt to maintain a 'family-friendly' site, I love profanity.

As is often the case, Stephen Fry can state the case better than most.

Saturday, February 12, 2011

SAT 2/12: Crawl, Chinese NY, Car Smash, Music


I have a feeling that the audience will be full at this weekend's tapings of "High School Quiz Show". If you don't mind waiting to positly be turned away, you can RSVP to watch a local TV show.

--------------------------------------------------------------

SAT 2/12

2pm to 8pm
Valentine’s Day Crawl
start at:
- West End Johnnie's, 138 Portland St, Boston
- The Harp, 85 Causeway St, Boston
- The Greatest Bar, 262 Friend St, Boston
$5 plus whatever-you-drink

This seems like a decent bar crawl from North Station to Faneuil Hall with a little dip into Financial District. Drinks specials at each place and complimentary apps at many.

Go with your honey, because you don't need the whole weekend to be paperback romance -- or you simply enjoy some sloppy drunkenness together.

Go with your buddies, because you might enjoy some flirting and hooking up -- then you can follow up AFTER Valentine's Day. Then you have until Xmas or their birthday to worry about a giving a nice present...

Your $5 is a donation to a local family-support organization, Julie's Family Learning Program, that also gets a free kookie for the first 750 people -- and they're ready for up to 2,000 people. That's why there are 3 bars for each stop.

SAT 2/12

3pm to 10pm
Chinese New Year Celebration
at Villa Victoria Center for the Arts, 85 W Newton St, Boston (South End)
FREE

This feels like one of those cheap fun experiences that one would add on to another reason to be in South End like you're having some drinks or a meal.

Then you can also enjoy some dance/music performances by the Chinese Folk Art Workshop.

SAT 2/12

4pm
“Meet Your Future Ex” V-Day Car Smash
at Stadium Sports Bar & Grill, 232 Old Colony Ave, South Boston
FREE to $10

Leave it to a bar in Southie to turn Valentine's weekend into an aggression-release car smash.

For $10, you get 2 swings of a sledgehammer and a rum drink. I think you could take one swing for $5, but what would be the point? Unless you swing it everyday, won't you like a second chance (and the drink)?

After 4 or so hours of car demolition, there's a covers band that should start around 8:30pm.

SAT 2/12

6:30pm to 10:15pm
Boston Underground Summit III
at YMCA Theater, 820 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$7 to $10 sliding scale / All Ages

Feat: Peace Loving, Young Adults, Shitaly, Hex Map, Big Digits, Ming Ming, Doomstar!, Sore Eros, Vile Bodies

Back in 2008, Dan Deacon brought a round-robin show to MassArt, and the cool people at Bodies of Water decided to repeat the clever idea of getting bands to bang out a song then pass the rock torch without pauses.

It's like a DJ that keeps mixing same 9 bands over and over again for a twisted sonic sampler of arty, punchy, psychedelic, avant-party, noisy indie-rock and electro/synth pop/hip-hop along with some ambient sprinklings in spaces.

I really like Young Adults, Big Digits, and Doomstar; dig it all and find some new favorites.

SAT 2/12

7:30pm
"Valentine Cabaret"
at Kaji Aso Studio, 40 St Stephen St, Boston (near Northeastern/The Fens)
$10 / $8 "seniors/lovers" Suggested Donation

This one off the beaten path and low-key, which might hit the spot for some people. Take that special someone and see if they mind being called your lover to save $2 for "an evening of romantic entertainment including love songs, art songs, opera arias, and doo-wop surprises".

Take a leap and be surpassed.

Those in the know might hate me, but Woody's is a great little (thin-crust) pizza place that's nearby with warm semi-yuppie/semi-hipster ambience. And it's not that far.

SAT 2/12

Erin Harpe & The Delta Swingers (Midnight), Ten Foot Polecats (11pm), The Killerados (10pm), 66 Breakout (9pm)
at Cantab Underground / Club Bohemia, 738 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$8 / 21+

Although they didn't win the International Blues Challenge in Memphis, Erin Harpe & The Delta Swingers did made it to the semi-finals which is better than all but 40 bands in the whole world. Music is not a contest in my mind, but I guess these sort of things are fun for bragging rights.

It's okay to give the Delta Swingers a pat on the back and/or a shot on their return that will be a top-to-bottom raucous, raucous night of bluesy music.

SAT 2/12

9pm
Naked On Roller Skates, Mellow Bravo, The Lights Out, Do Not Forsake Me Oh My Darling
at Great Scott, 1222 Comm Ave, Allston
$9 / 21+

Well, ain't this a great rock show?

For some reason, I thought Naked On Roller Skates already had released a CD because I already have enjoyed studio tracks on ye lode interwebs for a while. But let's party with NORS as they rip through some catchy, vibrant rock that kinda matches the sparkly band name.

Mellow Bravo rocks like they believe it will save your soul, The Lights Out rock like they believe it will save your weekend, and Do Not Forsake Me Oh My Darling rock like nothing matters except getting out of some crazy village but why not rage against it until then.

If you see Mike Epstein from DNFMOMD milling around, he might give you a free hug...

SAT 2/12

9:30pm
Sidewalk Driver, Brendan Boogie & The Best Intentions, Oranjuly, Jason Dunn & Henry Beguiristain
at Rosebud Bar & Grill (behind Diner), 381 Summer St, Somerville (Davis Sq)
$10 / 21+

I am in constant awe of folks like Mr. Brendan Boogie who tackles these ambitious endeavors of writing songs with a variety of other local musicos. After doing a series of live shows, people that missed can enjoy the recordings and -- what the hell -- let's do another show on top with their bands. Let's make the most of creativity and creation.

I bet Monsieur Boogie will join all of his "Songs From The Armory, Vol. 2" compatriots for the songs, as we also receive more than a barrel's worth of awesome powerpop and glam-rock in the my favorite secret venue in Davis Square.

SAT 2/12

9:30pm
Varsity Drag, Super Ska, Young Temors, Four Point Restraints
at Precinct, 70 Union Sq, Somerville (Union Sq)
$8

Don't just love Varsity Drag because Ben Deily was punkier half during the first era of The Lemonheads. Love them because he's still rocking out while Dando is doing... whatever Dando is doing... Tonight their set will include a few acoustic numbers before getting loud, and they should play "Billy Ruane" which they wrote before the man's passing.

How can you go wrong with some ska and garage to round things out?

SAT 2/12: Preamble

Gah!

I was lolling around this morning, then I remembered that I didn't finish the Saturday CTB. There is stuff on the calendar.

There are some cheap ideas for Valentine's Day below. Not ideas of things that are happening around town -- but more a list to do anytime when you're feeling romantic. Or this weekend.




PS: Was anyone else f---ed on the T last night?

Does anyone know why both trains and buses were FUBAR?

Friday, February 11, 2011

FRI 2/11: Music & Comedy


Congratulations to the Egyptian people for at least nonviolently changing their country. Let's hope today's developments are the first steps towards a democratic government.

BTW: Did you know that the short-film Oscar nominees are being screened at Kendall Square Cinema in separate programs for live-action and animated.

--------------------------------------------------------------

FRI 2/11

6pm to 9pm
Kristen Ford
at Bull McCabe's, 366 Somerville Ave, Somerville (Union Sq)
FREE

I've seen the Kristen Ford Band a couple times, and I think she's awesome. She has such a strong positive energy that exudes from her and the songs. It might be impossible to dislike her full-throttle folk-rock. You'll either be 1) blown away, 2) thoroughly refreshed, or 3) unswayed yet admiring of the effort.

FRI 2/11

7:30pm to 9:30pm
Anderson Comedy: "The Gas"
at Great Scott, 1222 Comm Ave, Allston
$5

Feat: Ben Keefe, Will Noonan, Guitler Raphael, Eve, Shawn Donovan, Al Park, Danny Richardson, Sean Kleier, Greg Gallant, Mary Briwa

Tonight's show is hosted by Rob Crean and Lillian DeVane, who seem to be actual sweethearts -- or something similar if 'sweetheart' isn't quite right.

Whatever the labels, love and laughs should be in the air. With about a dozen comedians for $5, how can you not laugh enough to get your money's worth. There are going to be some funny people on stage and plenty of reasonably-priced tallboys behind the bar.

I bet you can still stick around for The Pill at 10pm without paying another cover charge that features a live set from synthpoppers Stereo Telescope.

FRI 2/11

8pm
"Lisztomania"
at Jordan Hall, 30 Gainsborough St, Boston (New England Conservatory/Fenway)
FREE

As I said last week: Before "Lisztomania" (the pop song) and "Lisztomania" (the movie), there was genuine Lisztomania for the Hungarian pianist-composer who wowed 19th-century Europe with his virtuoso performances.

It's reasonable to assume that his compositions can be quite intense for subsequent pianists to perform.

This year is the bicentenary of his birth, so the NEC is presenting a series of concerts -- that continues next Friday -- where all of their piano majors as well as other students will perform.

The theme of tonight's program are compositions while living in Italy.

More Liszt celebration continues at the Boston Conservatory next month.

FRI 2/11

9:30pm
The Fagettes, Cocked N' Loaded, The Grinds, The Snipes
at Rosebud Bar & Grill (behind Diner), 381 Summer St, Somerville (Davis Sq)
$5 / 21+

With the exception of the hard 'n heavy rock of Cocked N' Loaded, it's a punk 'n garage parade of bands that range from the relatively new (The Snipes) to the really, really new (The Fagettes, The Grinds). So if a band you liked called it quits lately, there are new bands starting all the time.

I think the bands are listed above in last-to-first order...

FRI 2/11

10pm
"Enchantment Under the Sea Dance"
at Milky Way Lounge / Bella Luna, 284 Amory St, Jamaica Plain (The Brewery Complex)
$8 / 21+

Feat: The Wandas & DJ Leah V

Yes, it sounds familiar because it's a "Back to the Future" reference.

I suspect DJ Leah V will throw in more than a few nods to the '50s, and The Wandas are definitely going do some period-appropriate cover songs among their top-notch pop-rock.

It wouldn't hurt to get into the spirit and dress like you're going to a formal high school dance.

Cheap Valentine Ideas


Until I finish the normally scheduled post, I offer some tips that are basically the same tips as last year.

Do whatever you like this weekend, but I recommend expressing your affection frequently throughout the year.

--------------------------------------------------------------

* Write a note of adoration in 25 words or less. Brevity is forceful, there's less opportunity to screw it up. Make it a haiku for poetic flair. Use some creative paper -- creative doesn't have to be fancy...

* Why write something when you can use previously-tested literary panty-droppers?

* If none of those don't feel right and you can't find something appropriate on this page filled with love poems, then you have to write something original.

* Just look into their eyes, and say something heartfelt.

* Maybe a little image with some text may do the trick -- or send a personalized Flash-based poem.

* SomeEcards has the best cynical messages for this and every occasion.

* Digital valentine candy is fun, low calorie, sustainable, and cheap:


* Get a jug of wine and incense; call it "60s free love night".

* Have a movie night and make up a sexy game -- like "Machete": kiss/strip/naughty-act whenever someone gets it with a machete...
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0985694/

* Have an indoor picnic of any kind. Even if you get fancy stuff, it'll probably be cheaper and no reservation is required.

* When was the last time you gave them a massage?

* Does anyone know if these mutually satisfying lubricants really work like the commercials suggest? I haven't tried it -- yet...

* If you're going to give a present, consider supporting an independent store of any kind (some hints).

* Use feet, a shovel, or spray paint to write a message in the snow. (Warning: It could last for a while...)

* Spread the love, use your heart (and veins) by giving blood together. The need is higher since so many snow days reduced the number of usual donations.

* I like making a mix CD.

* A good, old-fashioned shag is nice any time of year.

Thursday, February 10, 2011

THUR 2/10: Jazz & Rock


Some may expect the upcoming weekend to be more romantic than the rest of the year because of V-Day. A cheap yet romantic gesture is reciting some poetry, and I thought this collection of suggestive verse would be a good start.

Again, I will attempt to claw back to relevance with some good, strong blogging later...

--------------------------------------------------------------

THUR 2/10

7pm to 8:30pm
"Learning from Performers": Tierney Sutton
at New College Theater Studio, 10-12 Holyoke St, Cambridge
FREE

Although a 'master class' with a mix of discussion and performance isn't a full concert, it's a good deal when you consider Tierney and her band is playing at Sanders Theatre tomorrow night and tickets start at $36.

It's likely that she'll be joined by her group for some hardcore jazz where the vocals ride along as one of the instruments.

Events in the "Learning from Performers" are intended for Harvard students, but most are open to the public -- and this appears to be the case tonight.

THUR 2/10

8pm
MySecretBoston.com Anniversary Party
at Church, 69 Kilmarnock St, Boston (Fenway)
$8 advance / $10 door / 18+

Feat: Brothers McCann, TAB The Band, Banana Phonetic

The team at MySecretBoston have been covering -- and uncovering -- what's going on around Boston. While I don't visit the site as often as I should, I'm always impressed with strong, professional content.

There should be a good party vibe tonight. Narragansett is 'sponsoring', which often means the possibility of a free beer. Since getting anything for free is a pleasant surprise, I'll let you know there was a mention of a 'gift bag'.

The bands are primed for party vibes especially the Brothers McCann who've got the soulful/funky jam-groove thing nailed down that screams college party to me. Despite their band name, Tab The Band are solid rockers with some cool songs that straddle a classic-contemporary sound.

THUR 2/10

Rob Potylo (11:15pm), Walter Sickert & The Army Of Broken Toys (10:15pm), Casey Desmond (9:15pm), Second Day Venom (8:15pm)
at TT the Bear's Place, 10 Brookline St, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$8 / 18+

This is quite a menagerie of musical creatures prowling around the stage -- growling and chirping, leaping and clawing, a bit of slithering here and a bit of presenting there. The music is the main thing, but there's a lot of stage presence in this line-up.

They're also filming for the "Quiet Desperation" show which has made the leap from the Internet to regional TV. I watched the first 20 episodes (not in one sitting) on the web and thought it was a hilarious semi-autobiographical satire of the local comedy/music scene. It is a bit strange to see it again on TV.

Whatever the case, QD protagonist Rob Potylo still maintains a quirky bent to his music even as it sounds more serious on each new album. The theatricality of Walter Sickert & the Army Of Broken Toys is intertwined with the dark, arty rock in my mind, and it's a cool experience. Casey Desmond

Is Casey Desmond's hair red or pink or purple? It looks like it glows to me, and it fits her bright, colorful synthy pop. And kudos to Second Day Venom who put a 22-minute shoegaze odyssey as the first track on their MySpace player. What I listened to, I liked.

ShareThis2