Tuesday, January 31, 2012

2/11 to 6/3: "Rural Ireland" Exhibit at BC

Mass in a Connemara Cabin by Aloysius O'Kelly
"Rural Ireland: The Inside Story"
-- Free Exhibit at Boston College

* Guest Post by Emma Crawford

Boston College's McMullen Museum of Art, strives to cultivate learning by presenting innovative multidisciplinary exhibits for the surrounding community while providing political, historical, and cultural context. Every exhibit on display at the McMullen Museum celebrates artistic excellence by exploring the visual traditions of diverse cultures.

Beginning February 11, 2012, in collaboration with Boston College's Irish programs, the McMullen Museum will present, "Rural Ireland: The Inside Story". Inspired by Claudia Kinmonth's groundbreaking 2006 study, Irish Rural Interiors in Art, the exhibit depicts the lives of Ireland's rural poor.

Visitors to the McMullen Museum will be able to view the vast collection depicting scenes from the everyday lives of Ireland's rural poor. Many of the works reveal the wide spread poverty and deprivation during the Great Famine from 1845 to 1849, offering new evidence surrounding the various folks living in the countryside.

The works also bridge a connection to the time of the depression here locally, when there was an unprecedented amount of residents losing their homes and apartments in Boston. Most of the works in this exhibit have never been displayed in the United States before.

Claudia Kinmonth, a furniture historian, spent years studying the rural culture of Ireland. Through the exploration of imagery, Kinmonth focused her studies on the interiors of rural farmhouses, artifacts, and clothing.

During her extensive examination of Ireland's rural culture, she discovered something that challenged previous assumptions about Ireland's artistic heritage. For decades, it was assumed that artists of Ireland only painted the Irish landscape and the 'the big houses' of the Irish elite for their subject matter.

Through these studies, Kinmonth discovered previously unknown works of art that depicted the lives of Ireland's rural poor. She uncovered paintings that showed people cooking over an open hearth, depicted where they slept, and showed the people celebrating marriage arrangements, weddings, and wakes, creating a new social history of Ireland's country folks.

The exhibit will include pieces, like:

- John George Mulvany's (1766-1838) "A Kitchen Interior", on loan from the National Gallery of Ireland, Dublin;
- Sean Keating's (1889-1977) "The Playboy and Pegeen Mike", part of the Burns Library Collection at Boston College;
- Howard Helmick's (1840-1936) "The Dispensary Doctor – West of Ireland", on loan from Pym's Gallery of London; and
- Aloysius O'Kelly's (1853-1936) "Mass in a Connemara Cabin", courtesy of Gorry Gallery, Dublin.
Note: An opening reception will be held on MON 2/13 from 7pm to 9:30pm.

"Rural Ireland: the Inside Story", will be on display at the McMullen Museum from February 11, 2012 thru June 3, 2012. Located on the Boston College campus, on the first floor of Devlin Hall, the hours of operation are Monday-Friday 11:00 – 4:00 and Saturdays and Sundays 12:00 – 5:00, while admission is free and open to the public.

* * * * *
Emma Crawford is a creative writer from Murray State University. As an aspiring writer she specializes in writing about travel destinations, tourism and art.

Want to write something for Cheap Thrills Boston? Let me know.

1/31 to 2/2: This Week's MBTA Meetings


The complete list of sessions through TUES 3/6 is on my original post (along with links to relevant "Discussion Guide", etc.

TUES 1/31

6pm to 8pm
Mildred Avenue Community Center, 5 Mildred Ave, Mattapan
WED 2/1
6pm to 8pm
Hennigan Community Center Cafeteria, 200 Heath St, Jamaica Plain
THUR 2/2
1pm to 3pm
6pm to 8pm
Dorchester House Multi-Service Center, Multi-Purpose Room, 1353 Dorchester Avenue
At that time, I offered a few ideas on how to express yourself and/or effect change regarding the potential fare increases/service reductions (including holding fundraisers, which could be fun/funny/provocative event).

However I forgot to mention the The T Riders' Union who have been active on general MBTA issues.

Someone named "Sean" later commented:
I suggest those of us who want sustained, if not improved public transit in Greater Boston, take a cold, hard look at not just protesting, but proposing what it is that we do support to fix the T's finances. That is, if want decent, or even improved transit, we do have to pay for it somehow.

[snip]

Mass Inc., a non-partisan think-tank has some truly reasonable and realistic proposals; backed by cold-hard data that I believe we all should take a good look at, and debate.

[another snip]
The whole thing is at the bottom.

Personally, I felt better after I spoke at a meeting and asked a few questions...

TUES 1/31: Talk, Music, Stories


If you feel like paying your respects to Kevin White, there is a public viewing today from 2pm to 8pm at the Parkman House (next to the State House).

I can't get too excited about this one, but there is a Mardi Gras Pub Crawl around the Faneuil Hall area on SAT 2/25. There is a 2-perso-for-$20 deal if you sign up through today. When I see "Coors Light drink specials at each venue", the beer snob in me takes over -- but feel free to go and have a good time!

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TUES 1/31

7pm
Jodi Kantor, "The Obamas": Reading
at Harvard Book Store, 1256 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
FREE

Some of the initial reports claimed Kantor's book portrayed First Lady Michelle Obama as an 'angry black woman'. When Jon Stewart interviewed her a couple weeks ago, he helped her frame it in a more positive light.

Maybe you'll want to make your own judgement in 30 to 45 minutes...

TUES 1/31

7pm
Berkee-in-the-Round Tuesdays
at Cafe 939, 939 Boylston St, Boston (Back Bay)
FREE

Feat: Scarlet Keys, Byron Noemdoe, Ethan Thompson, and "special guest"

According to a Berklee article, the monthly BITR series is inspired by the in-the-round sessions that are common among Nashville songwriters.

The performers who'll sit together and exchange songs will be associated with the music school in some way, and they're often joined by special guests.

I happened to notice this gig where there will be someone special. If the clues are correct, the artist's name rhymes with "Waula Mole"...

TUES 1/31

7pm to 9pm
MassMouth Story Slam: "College Dayz"
at Precinct, 70 Union Sq, Somerville (Union Sq)
$7

Hosted by Dan "Danger" Dahari & Di "The Yellow Dart" Valentine

Either you have a killer 5-minute story from college or you'd enjoy hearing others rhapsodize about frat parties or streakers in the quad.

Why pay for stories? I assume the money goes to paying for the prize in April's championship which will include a weeklong vacation in Tuscany.

TUES 1/31

8pm
Bach Competition Winners Concert
at CFA Concert Hall, 855 Comm Ave, Boston (BU campus)
FREE

For the past 12 years, BU's string department holds a competition where students must play unaccompanied Bach pieces from memory (i.e. no sheet music). I haven't been to one of these concerts, but there were 2 performers in 2007.

TUES 1/31

9pm
Immigrants, Hex Map, Whorepaint, Floader
at Middle East - Upstairs, 472 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$9 / 18+

When you mix hip-hop (such as Immigrants) and proggy/noisy rock (like Hex Map) and punky no-wave (Whorepaint) with experimental electronic grooves (Floader), I have to give a big thumbs up. Go stretch your ears and shake your tail-feather.

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Monday, January 30, 2012

Monday Calendar

Okay, I'm conceding with a calendar post.

Regarding LUPEC's "Winter Ball", you're going to spend more than the $10 admission, but it is for a good cause...

Sunday, January 29, 2012

SUN 1/29: Sunday Night Off-Topic Video

Remember the No Pants T Ride earlier this month? BosGuy put this video together.

Does it make you want to drop trio next year?

SUN 1/29: Chinese NY, Sun Fun, Surf 'n Wrestling


As always -- not a comprehensive list of cheapness, but some of the better options.

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SUN 1/29

11am to 5pm
Chinese New Year Parade
near Harrison St and Essex St, Boston (Chinatown)
FREE

For most of the day, those classic giant lions/dragons will dance through the neighborhood. It's colorful sight, and I was amused for about an hour or more as they visit the various business fronts. There is only so much firecrakers and Chinese gong/percussion.

One time I thought it would be a good day to see the sights and have dim sum, but the restaurants seemed extra crowded.

SUN 1/29

4:48pm-ish
"MIThenge"
at Infinite Corridor, from Bldg 7 to Bldg 8, Cambridge (MIT campus)
FREE

Twice per year, the sun sets at an angle that coincides with the long hallway at MIT. A similar effect happens on different days at different locations with Stonehenge being a purposeful example.

It's dorky, but you'll likely never see another sunset reflection like this in your life. It might a good day to catch the effect, if you're willing to take a little trip to MIT. Maybe after a long brunch in the Kendall Square area.

In case you don't read the link, know:

- It's best seen at the end of Bldg 8, 3rd Floor
- Don't be a jerk; move to let others see after you.
- Don't look too long, it will hurt your eyes. (It's the sun.)
- Watch where you're walking; walk to the side or use a lower floor if you don't show up early.
I tried to see MIThenge last year, and it's rather cool to see the sunlight shower a hallway in such a manner.

SUN 1/29

8pm
B.L.O.W.W., Surf's Up Spicoli, Tsunami of Sound, Matt Heaton & The Electric Heaters
at Church, 69 Kilmarnock St, Boston (Fenway)
$10 / 21+

There may not be a lot of bad blood on the local surf-music scene, so they probably need to bring putative types for a "Boston Surf Rock Rumble". A trio of instrumental surf bands assist in channeling your inner moondoggies and gidgets before the Boston League of Women Wrestlers hit the mat.

Sure, BLOWW is campy. This is still real people throwing each other around. It's probably less corny that professional wrestlers and WAY more fun than a high-school team.

Saturday, January 28, 2012

SAT 1/28: Night Cheapness


There are a few more gigs on the calendar but am going get some more sun before it's too late...

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SAT 1/28

7pm
34th Annual Science Fiction Marathon
at Room 100, Bldg 26, 60 Vassar St, Cambridge (MIT campus)
$8 / $5 after midnight

7pm -- "Cowboys & Aliens"
9:30pm -- "Inception"
12:20am -- pizza break
1am -- "Terminator 2: Judgment Day"
4am -- "The Thing"
It wasn't a great film, but "Cowboys & Aliens" had some moments. Consider that you're paying $2 to see it along with a really clever subconscious-caper, Schwarzenegger in his prime, and the original "The Thing" -- which would be cooler if you'd leave with a bunch of snow outside.

I'm sure you don't have to sneak in candy. Pizza can be ordered before "Inception" to be delivered after midnight.

SAT 1/28

7pm to 9pm
"Jazz Meets Burlesque"
at West End Museum, 150 Staniford St, Ste 7, Boston (near North Station)
$10

Burlesque dancers in a museum? I did have my hopes, alas the John Licata Band will perform some of the standards that would've been heard in the (what would've been nearby) Scollay Square joint more than 50 years ago.

SAT 1/28

7:30pm
Boston Underground Summit IV
at Cambridge YWCA, 7 Temple St, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$5 to $10 sliding scale / All Ages

Feat: Guerilla Toss, Vulture Shit, Robot Death Kites, Needy Visions, Mmoss, White Pages, Night Fruit, Broken River Prophet, Skinny Vinny, Magic Magic

Each Underground Summit show proceeds in a round-robin fashion where the bands set up around the room, and they take turns over a few hours. It's like a 10-band jukebox that spans psych, pop, rock, punk, and weird, jazzy stuff.

While I wasn't familiar with all of the bands, there bands I already liked such as: The Needy Visions, Mmoss, White Pages, Night Fruit, Broken River Prophet, and especially Magic Magic.

Keep in mind this is at the YWCA as they say, "NOT NOT NOT the YMCA."

SAT 1/28

8pm to 11:30pm
Winter Rock Formal II
at Radio, 379 Somerville Ave, Somerville (Union Sq)
$7 / 21+
Midnight -- Gene Dante & The Future Starlets
11pm -- Parlour Bells
10pm -- Eddie Japan
9:15pm -- Broken Wings (Sarah Rabdau & Peter Moore)
8:30pm -- "Bandlywed Game"
One doesn't have to get gussied up to attend the Winter Rock Formal, but there is a photobooth gallery from the first Winter Rock Formal to give you an idea.

Regardless of attire, it's nice to see something where you could just listen to the tunes or embrace the "high school dance" theme with your honey.

With these bands playing, I might have shown up to my prom without a date. This seriously promtastic lineup of glam-rock and romantic pop. It starts with musical couple Sarah Rabdau & Peter Moore, who might be disqualified from the opening "Bandlywed Game".

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.

(If you haven't guessed, "Creative formal-wear welcome!")

SAT 1/28

9:30pm
Coyote Kolb, Tallahassee, Larcenist
at Great Scott, 1222 Comm Ave, Allston
$10 / 21+

Someone at the Phoenix said that "It’s time Coyote Kolb joined the upper ranks of Boston’s burgeoning Americana/roots scene." They've already been there for a while in my mind. It's pretty darn hard not to like their fuzzed-out, twangy, bluesy, alt-country sound. CK has a new CD too.

Tallahassee and Larcenist aren't in my mental upper-echelon (yet), however they've got some good rootsy-rock vibes and sound very different.

SAT 1/28: Day Cheapness

Quidditch at BU
Hey, it's a sunny day... Not too cold... Have a good time!

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SAT 1/28

Noon to 3pm
Fix-it Clinic: XVIII
at Edgerton Center, Bldg 4, 182 Memorial Drive (Rear), Cambridge (MIT campus)
FREE

No one is going to guarantee that your toaster or computer or the original Rock'em Sock'em Robots can be fixed.

On the other hands, the Fix-it types love a challenge. They want to help you help yourself by figuring out what can be done. There will be space to work and tools and a helping hand.

Bring:
1) your broken or non-working thing (carry-in only: no oversize items)
2) any tools you already own that might be helpful (e.g. phillips head screwdriver)
3) a digital camera to document the disassembly and what we find inside
4) boxes, bags and/or small containers to organize (and carry away) parts.
Wouldn't it be nice to fix something instead of throwing it away?

SAT 1/28

1pm to 3pm
Heidi Reynolds, "Rolling Gallery": Roll-in Workshop
at The Distillery Gallery, 516 East Second St, South Boston
FREE

If you do want to get rid of some stuff, it can be in the service of art.

Heidi Reynolds encourages you to bring "works of art, objects, and personal mementos" or whatever to join her giant ball o' art. She said:
The ball is a manifestation of letting go and re-imagining. How can letting go of objects from the past encourage us to re-envision the present?
The Rolling Gallery is at the Distillery for about another week, then it'll be seen again in May at Union Square.

SAT 1/28

1pm to 2pm
Harvard Square Chocolate Sampling
at Deguglielmo Plaza, about 25 Brattle St, Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
FREE

Most people won't -- and shouldn't -- go out of their way for some free tastes of chocolate from various nearby shops & restaurants. If you're nearby, you should swing by. What the heck?

And you can pick up a 'Chocolate Treasure Hunt' (11am to 2pm) map for $1. It could be a vaguely fun way to walk around for an hour or so. Who knows what happens while you're doing it. Maybe more chocolate?

Your dollar go to support the Harvard Square Homeless Shelter, which is different than the pit...

SAT 1/28

1pm until 4pm
2nd Annual Winterfest Quidditch Tournament
at Nickerson Field, 285 Babcock St, Boston (BU campus)
FREE

Here is more evidence that nerds can be athletic.

Sure, they're pretending to fly around on brooms like Harry Potter... At least there's a ball and running -- like a real sport. Okay, the competition between the teams from different schools is real.

Muggles are quidditchers too...?

SAT 1/28

1pm
Australia Day Party
at The Asgard, 350 Mass Ave, Cambridge (between Central Sq & MIT)
$10

Like last year, most Aussie ex-pats in the area congregate at a faux-Irish pub to drink beer (like Coopers), eat meat pies, and have a Peter Garrett dance contest (watch some tips). There will also be raffles, auctions, and giveaways.

Over the course of many hours, you'll probably forget that you paid a cover to get in.

In celebration of the first ship full of English convicts arriving in Sydney, you might as well give people the "Aussie, Aussie, Aussie" chant.

SAT 1/28

7pm
34th Annual Science Fiction Marathon
at Room 100, Bldg 26, 60 Vassar St, Cambridge (MIT campus)
$8 / $5 after midnight
7pm -- "Cowboys & Aliens"
9:30pm -- "Inception"
12:20am -- pizza break
1am -- "Terminator 2: Judgment Day"
4am -- "The Thing"
It wasn't a great film, but "Cowboys & Aliens" had some moments. Consider that you're paying $2 to see it along with a really clever subconscious-caper, Schwarzenegger in his prime, and the original "The Thing" -- which would be cooler if you'd leave with a bunch of snow outside.

I'm sure you don't have to sneak in candy. Pizza can be ordered before "Inception" to be delivered after midnight.

Friday, January 27, 2012

Friday Calendar

One of my goals is to suck less than last weekend.

So here is tonight's cheap stuff -- a rather good array of options...

Thursday, January 26, 2012

THUR 1/26: Talk, Music, Dance


You can tell which descriptions I wrote first, because they are usually more descriptive...

I was trying to be brief so I could save time for the weekend, and the music gigs got the short shrift. Depending on what you're in the mood for, I'd personally be happy at any of the 3 rock gigs.

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THUR 1/26

6pm to 8pm
Darra Goldstein, "Artful Dining: The Orchestration of the Meal"
at Fuller Bldg, Room 117, 808 Comm Ave, Boston (BU campus)
FREE w/ RSVP

I get the feeling this presentation is full. If you want to hear about the fancy eating habits from the Renaissance to the Gilded Age as well as the differences between the French and Russian styles of fine dining.

"Reservations are required by calling 617-353-9852"

Part of the Pepin Lecture Series in Food Studies, Gastronomy, and the Culinary Arts.

THUR 1/26

6:30pm to 8:30pm
Hanneke Cassel Band
at 2101 Comm Ave Bldg, Brighton (BC campus)
FREE

Champion fiddler gives a free performance as part of the "Gaelic Roots Music, Song, Dance, Workshop, and Lecture Series". (For kicks, I tried to figure out what that would look like in Gaelic: "Gaeilge Fréamhacha Ceol, Amhrán, Rince, Ceardlann, agus Sraith Léachtaí")

She'll be joined for by cellist Ariel Friedman and guitarist Christopher Lewis in what could be predominantly instrumental tunes.

I didn't know what BC did with the old Boston Cardinal's residence, but you could see by going tonight.

THUR 1/26

7pm
Frances Moore Lappé, "EcoMind: Changing the Way We Think, to Create the World We Want"
at Brookline Booksmith, 279 Harvard St, Brookline (Coolidge Corner)
FREE

Have you ever tried to have an in-depth conversation in the wee hours of the night about the environment? These discussions often stumble upon a similar set of what seem like insurmountable obstacles.

The co-founder of the Small Planet Institute intends to overcome some of the common mental blocks that may prevent us from taking action.

THUR 1/26

7pm
Dance Spotlight: An Evening with Boston Ballet
at Tsai Performance Center, Boston University, 685 Comm Ave, Boston
FREE

In March, the Boston Ballet is presenting a program of 3 contemporary works they've titled "Play With Fire". You have a chance to preview excerpts from "Sharp Side of Dark", "Bella Figura", and "Rooster".

THUR 1/26

7pm
Clea Simon & Brett Milano, "Tales From the House Band"
at Porter Square Books, 25 White St, Cambridge (near Shaw's Market)
FREE

A collection of 16 musical short stories include contributions from local authors Clea Simon and Brett Milano (who is one of my favorite music writers, period).

THUR 1/26

Zip-Tie Handcuffs (Midnight), Ready, Steady… Torpedo! (11pm), The Tenafly Vipers (10pm), Taiwan Typhoon (9pm)
at PA's Lounge, 345 Somerville Ave, Somerville (Union Sq)
$8 / 21+

If you're in the mood for a punk/metal mix.

THUR 1/26

The Blackboard Nails (11:30pm), BrownBoot (10:30pm), The Future Everybody (9:45pm), Animal Talk (9pm)
at TT the Bear's Place, 10 Brookline St, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$7

If you're in the mood for an indie-pop/rock mix.

THUR 1/26

9:30pm
Camden, The Daily Pravda, Cooling Towers, Paper Snakes
at Great Scott, 1222 Comm Ave, Allston
$8 / 18+

If you're in the mood for indie-rock with some glam 'n electro here and there.

Wednesday, January 25, 2012

WED 1/25: Theatre, Jazz, Country, Rock


Happy Robbie Burns Night!

Not much in cheapness around Boston for the Scottish poet, and the area's Scottish restaurant has no room tonight.

Perhap a dram of whisky and a toast may suffice. Maybe in front of the Burns statue in the Financial District...?

Who knew there could be 2 Pay-What-You-Can nights on the same night? There are, and both are listed below.

BTW: None of the shows during the Magners Comedy Festival (WED 1/25 to SUN 1/29) are priced below $20, but I will mention the Orfeo Group's 2 performances of "The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged)" at Nick's Comedy Stop (Theatre District) tonight.

These guys have done it for free many times around Boston, so I thought I'd give a little shout-out. If tickets are still available, the 11pm show is going to be a new "R-rated" version.

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WED 1/25

7:30pm
"Fen": Pay-What-You-Can Night
at The Factory Theatre, 791 Tremont St, Boston (South End)
$5 minimum

Whenever I go to a play, there's a warm feeling of pride that I've tried to support the theatre as a viable part of our culture. Then a smug superiority rises because most people I know don't go to the live productions.

This is the 2nd of 3 plays by Obie-winning Caryl Churchill that are being performed by the Whistler in the Dark group over the next week or so.

I'll quote a London review of "Fen" from last year, because I can't give a better blurb:

This is a mysterious, tantalising play that, with its elliptical scenes and multiple characters, refuses to spoon-feed its audience. It offers a clear-eyed, feminist-socialist perspective on women and labour, but there is something darker and wilder lurking in its witchy psychic landscape.
As I've said before, there's nothing wrong with paying $20 ($10 students) on other nights. On the other hand, PWYC nights encourage you to attend.

"Tickets are available at the box office starting at 6:45pm."

WED 1/25

7:30pm to 9:30pm
Winter Panto 2012: "Humpty Dumpty"
at Black Box Theatre, Boston Center for Arts, 539 Tremont Street, Boston (South End)
$5 minimum

For many years, 'pantomime' conjured images of playing charades. Somewhere along the line, I read about the English tradition of presenting a musical/comedy show around Christmastime. They're usually silly (sometimes bawdy) versions of commonly-recognized tale.

Just like the play above you could pay full price on other nights, but I talk about cheap fun like pay-what-you-can nights (payable at the door day of show only).

This production says it is suitable for all ages, and there's no doubt that you've never seen Humpty Dumpty like this before.

WED 1/25

8pm to 2am
"A Tribute to Nina Simone" with Toni Lynn Washington & Sharon Sugar Jones
at The Beehive, 541 Tremont St, Boston (South End)
FREE

Whenever I see a tribute to Nina Simone, it's usually going to be a worthwhile gig. No one will ever sound exactly like Nina's deep fountain of soulfulness, but two of the bluesiest mamas in the Commonwealth will surely do justice to the songs associated with Ms. Simone.

Other singers that will be celebrated incude Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughn and Dinah Washington. They were expecting Etta James succumbing last week, but I suspect you might hear one or two of her classics.

WED 1/25

8:30pm
Roy Sludge
at Radio, 379 Somerville Ave, Somerville (Union Sq)
FREE

Last year, Sludge released a kick-ass country CD with a good dose of wit called "Too Drunk To Truck", and the songs go from there.

I also like how his site labeled this gig "Free Sludge". Buy yourself another beer since you didn't pay to get in and enjoy the tunes tonight.

WED 1/25

9:30pm
The Honors, Savoir Adore
at Great Scott, 1222 Comm Ave, Allston
$9 / 18+

Sure, there are chances to see The Honors play on weekends at places like Hennessey's and the Green Dragon, but I've noticed those places are often packed with people not paying attention to the music (to put it politely). It might be a better overall experience to hear their uber-catchy indie-rock at a club where they've done Halloween gigs as The Smiths and Morrissey.

When a band titles their album "The Adventures of Mr. Pumpernickel and the Girl With the Animals in Her Throat", they're pushing the envelope of acceptable length and silliness. Savoir Adore manages to keep in check, and they've have a fun indie-dancey pop thing going on.

Should be a good time!

Tuesday, January 24, 2012

TUES 1/24: Music, Film, Theatre, Trivia


FYI: Wednesday's cheapness is on the calendar.

If you didn't go to yesterday's MBTA meetings at their downtown offices, there are many more sessions around the area through March. Thanks to Sean for leaving a detailed & reasonable comment on my post with the schedule.

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TUES 1/24

6:30pm to 8:30pm
Quatuor Zaïde
at French Cultural Center, 53 Marlborough St, Boston (Back Bay)
FREE

Program:

Mozart, "String Quartet No. 23" ("Prussian No. 3")
Debussy, "String Quartet in G Major"
A musical exchange program has sent a string quartet to Paris, and 4 French women have been sent to Boston for a week. Quatuor Zaide is a young quartet, but they've already been garnering accolades.

Theis another public performance at the New England Conservatory on THUR 1/26.

TUES 1/24

7pm to 8:30pm
"Shouting in the Dark": Screening
at Whitaker Bldg, about 21 Ames St, Cambridge (MIT campus)
FREE

If you think Al-Jazeera is clearly an enemy of democracy, you might want to check out some of their undercover journalism during last year's (unsuccessful) protests in Bahrain.

The whole 51-minute documentary is viewable on YouTube, but it's screening tonight if you'd rather not watch on a laptop. There's a chance to discuss it with people "face to face", as we used to say.

You might even get some free pizza just for caring about freedom in the Middle East.

TUES 1/24

7:30pm
"A Number": Pay-What-You-Can Night
at The Factory Theatre, 791 Tremont St, Boston (South End)
$5 minimum

Whenever I go to a play, there's a warm feeling of pride that I've tried to support the theatre as a viable part of our culture. Then a smug superiority rises because most people I know don't go to the live productions.

For another week or so, the Whistler in the Dark group are performing a trio by playwright Caryl Churchill who has won several Obies and other awards.

As this past review states, "A Number" requires you to think and suspend your disbelief slightly. The crux of the 'action' revolves around a man interacting with his son -- and his son's clones.

As I've said before, there's nothing wrong with paying $20 ($10 students) on other nights. On the other hand, PWYC nights encourage you to attend.

"Tickets are available at the box office starting at 6:45pm."

TUES 1/24

8pm to 11pm
Boston Bruins Stump Trivia
at King's, 50 Dalton St, Boston (Back Bay)
FREE / 21+

I don't mind Stump Trivia; they provide diversion in many bars around the nation. I just can't get excited about them either, because I wonder if we really need a massive organization to provid trivia for so many pubs.

Tonight's winning team will win a pair of Bruins tickets. If you have 3 to 6 players, then some are out of luck -- or you could sell the tix and split the money. Other prizes should be available for 2nd and 3rd place. (Maybe more?)

TUES 1/24

Mercies (11pm), Emily Peal (10:15pm), Stephen Konrads (9:30pm), Dan Blakeslee (8:45pm)
at TT the Bear's Place, 10 Brookline St, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$8

It's kinda funny that Mercies is a side project from a band (The Dear Hunter) that began as a side project from another band (The Receiving End of Sirens). Fans of TDH (and TREOS) should enjoy Mercies. As these things sometimes go, it seems each band is less 'heavy' than the previous one.

I recognize Stephen Konrads' name from a local band, but I assume he might be doing a solo gig. There's a good chance that Emily Peal will present her lovely, dreamy tunes by herself, and Dan Blakeslee often gets folky alone.

Monday, January 23, 2012

MON 1/23: Art; Film, Talk, Humor, Music


It could be a good year since it's the Year of the Dragon, and dragons are cool.

Since I used to work with a couple Cantonese speakers I learned it as, "Gong hay fat choy!"

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MON 1/23

6pm to 8pm
"Histories of Now: Six Artists from Cairo": Opening Reception
at Grossman Gallery, School of the Museum of Fine Arts, 230 The Fenway, Boston (The Fens)
FREE

Feat: Mohamed Abla, Ahmed Basiony, Hala Elkoussy, Shady El Noshokaty, Sabah Naim, Moataz Nasr

It was about a year ago that protestors in Tahrir Square sparked the 30-year reign of Egyptian "President" Hosni Mubarak. These are the times when skeptics tell the idealists that they'll never change anything -- and when the idealists try anyway.

The SMFA offers a multi-media sample of artists who have been doing their part more than creatively. Ahmed Basiony died in Tahrir Square last year. I doubt all of the other artists will be in attendance, but I noticed Shady El Noshokaty is giving a lecture on WED 1/25 at the Museum of Fine Arts around the corner.

On view through SUN 3/17.

MON 1/23

6pm
"Carmen Jones"
at Rabb Lecture Hall, Boston Public Library, 700 Boylston St, Boston (Copley Sq)
FREE

The BPL's current Monday-night film series "Black and Beautiful Celebrating African American Actresses" runs through the end of February that would seem to purposely coincide with Black History Month.

Otto Preminger directs Dorothy Dandridge as the femme fatale that was simply known as "Carmen" in Bizet's opera that serves as the source material. The wayward soldier is played a young Harry Belafonte.

MON 1/23

6pm to 9pm
Bread & Puppet Theater, "Upriser Calisthenics": Opening Reception
at Cyclorama, Boston Center for the Arts, 539 Tremont St, Boston (South End)
FREE

In conjunction with their week of annual performances at the BCA over the last few years, the Bread and Puppet Theater also displays an art exhibit mainly by company founder Peter Schumann.

At last year's reception, I was quite charmed by his mad genius. With an unkempt look and German accent that hasn't lessened after decades in the hinterlands of Vermont, he performed a piece that included violin and passages of gibberish -- and made perfect sense.

Some of Bread & Puppet as well as locals Second Line Social Aid & Pleasure Society Brass Band will attempt to get the crowd into a dance/party mood.

Yes, there was some free food and quite a bit of art for less than $10.

MON 1/23

7pm to 9pm
Boston Skeptics in the Pub: Mathemagician Ethan Brown
at Tommy Doyle's, 96 Winthrop St, Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
FREE

Every month, people get together for some drinks and skeptical conversation that usually includes a presentation from a guest speaker. The topics usually do seem casual and informal.

If you're not totally irritated by young people who are super-intelligent and talented, you might get a kick out of pre-teen 'mathemagician' Ethan Brown who incorporates some magic tricks into his mental math tricks.

The kid is performing at a science & skepticism conference in NYC in a couple months, so this is closer and cheaper.

MON 1/23

9pm
"The Classic Game Show Show"
at Middlesex Lounge, 315 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$5-ish?

Feat: Union Square Round Table, Anderson Comedy, Ken Reid, Liz Prince, Spencer Gralla

Two of the local comedy collectives are combining their powers a la '70s TV game shows.

The Union Square Round Table will revive their version of "Match Game" that would occasionally occurred at the old Milky Way.

Since Anderson Comedy doesn't actually want to be responsible for a $10k grand prize, they're calling their version "BYO $10,000 Pyramid".

If you really, really want to participate, you should go to the Facebook page and see if they're still interested in recruiting people. The audience will be contestants, and the USRT/Anderson folks & friends will pretend they're celebrities and try to help you win prizes -- while making everyone laugh.

This could be free, and I wouldn't expect the cover to be more than $5...

MON 1/23

Neptune (11pm), The In Out (10pm), Cotton Candy (9:30pm)
at Charlie's Kitchen, 10 Eliot St, Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
$5 / 21+

Aren't Monday nights good for something weird and noisy? Monday days are usually filled with the depressing distance of the nest weekend, but the liberated soul has fun whenever they can.

On their homemade instruments, Neptune rips out some their own peculiar, arty-funky, avant-rock groove. Once I let go and let them redefine my understanding of melody & rhythm, it was a far more enjoyable listening experience.

While I haven't warmed up to The In Out very much, I do concede they know how to play even if the genre-hopping, devil-may-care approach that draws comparisons (since others compare) to The Fall, Pavement, and others.

The opening Cotton Candy won't confront your ears so much with light and fun indie-pop, but pay attention to the lyrics and you might think to yourself, "Hmm, that's a bit weird." And then you'll be on your way to some freaky musical corners.

Sunday, January 22, 2012

SUN 1/22: Sunday Night Off-Topic Video

Kudos to the guy who compiled Gronkowski's touchdowns and sync'ed the 1812 cannons.

SUN 1/22: Talk, Music, Film


I guess some people may not want to watch the game.

Hopefully, I'll constructively blog as the Pats beat the dirty birds.

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SUN 1/22

3pm to 4:30pm
"Where Does Democracy Come From?" Popular Uprising & Parliamentary Elections in Egypt
at First Parish Church, 3 Church St, Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
FREE

If someone knows how to explain the recent Egyptian elections to Americans, it's probably a Stanford Middle East history professor who has lived in the country off-and-on over the last 40 years.

That guy is Joel Beinin, and he'll discuss the results and their impact on the Arab Spring movement.

SUN 1/22

3pm
"Hot Songs for a Cold Winter's Day"
at Arts at the Armory Performance Hall, 191 Highland Ave, Somerville (Spring Hill)
$10

Feat: Dennis Brennan, Gabrielle Agachiko, Catharine David, Gail Leondar-Wright, Pamela Enders, Debbie Lane, Ruthie Ristich, Rich White, Marva Wooden, Julie Dougherty, Marilyn Dale

There's not much info about this gig in general, but I did notice many of the performers also appeared here for a "Torch Night" last year as part of the Somerville Jazz & Blues Fest.

One could expect most of the jazz/cabaret/folk singers backed the amazing Dennis Brennan on guitar and keyboardist Bill Duffy.

SUN 1/22

4pm to 7pm
"Who Took the Bomp? Le Tigre on Tour": Screening
at Washington Street Arts Center, 321 Washington St, Somerville (Union Sq)
Donations Appreciated

In a couple weeks (2/3 to 2/5), Lady Fest Boston will present bunch of bands over several night at the Cambridge YMCA.

My initial impression is that these preliminary events were fundraisers, but it looks like you might just be encouraged to participate in the art auction at Washington street to offset festival costs.

It's a grrrl-power afternoon with a documentary about Kathleen Hanna's current band Le Tigre.

Hey, there will be free popcorn...

SUN 1/22

9:30pm
"Hooked On Who": "The Impossible Astronaut" & "Day Of The Moon"
at Brattle Theatre, 40 Brattle St, Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
$7 suggested donation

As an old-school Doctor Who fan, I enjoyed when my "Hooked on Who" experience from a couple years ago when I caught a Tom Baker a 4-part story arc. The script was by Douglas Adams, so there were more laugh lines than usual; people were guffawing and yelling stuff.

It might be cool to watch the first 2 episodes of the most recent season tonight with its sweeping shots of Utah and the scariest bad guys in a long time.

SUN 1/22

He's My Brother She's My Sister (10:30pm), Henry Wolfe (9:30pm)
at TT the Bear's Place, 10 Brookline St, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$10

Led by a pair of siblings, HMBSMS nail a sunny-LA, good-time indie-folk. They're probably the best band with a tap-dancer that I've heard for a long while. I wouldn't be surprised if people felt like dancing themselves.

Opener Henry Wolfe should appeal to fans of Freedy Johnston. His recordings also have a nice variety in stylistic touches.

Saturday, January 21, 2012

Saturday Night Calendar

Along the way, I pledged I wouldn't apologize, but I've not been happy with the last week or so. There are a few cheap options tonight with more to come.

Thursday, January 19, 2012

THUR 1/19: Top 4 Free Things To Do Tonight

Edgar Allan Poe, by Steve.D.Hammond
Happy Birthday, Edgar Allan Poe!

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THUR 1/19

6pm to 8pm
"100 Years (version #4 Boston, 2012)": Opening Reception
at Stone Gallery, 1st Fl, College of Fine Arts Bldg, 855 Comm Ave, Boston (BU campus)
FREE

Performances: Marilyn Arsem, Jeff Huckleberry, Mari Novotny-Jones, Daniel S. DeLuca, EL Putnam

After stops in Dusseldorf; New York City and Moscow, an exhibit that covers the last century (or so) of performance art will be on view through SUN 3/25.

More than 200 pieces (including photos/video/audio) are on display, and there will be multiple live performances over the next couple months.

Several artists associated with local Mobius Group will do some wild and wacky -- err, I mean, give thought-provoking and sublime displays of their work...

THUR 1/19

7pm to 8:30pm
"Celebration of the 203rd Birthday of Edgar Allan Poe"
at Boston Room, Boston Public Library, 700 Boylston St, Boston (Copley Sq)
FREE

The Edgar Allan Poe Foundation of Boston is sponsoring a birthday for America's original master of macabre who grew up a few blocks away near Boston Common.

Speakers will include Prof. Paul Lewis, Boston's preeminent Poe scholar who curated the BPL's exhibit a couple years ago.

Project manager Jean Mineo will present the 3 top proposals for the Edgar Allan Poe Square Public Art Project and ask for your feedback.

You may even win a prize during the Poe-themed trivia game, and there's a rumor that Mr. Poe (or a close facsimile) will show up.

THUR 1/19

7pm
Catharine Utzschneider, "MOVE! How Women Can Achieve Athletic Goals at Any Age"
at Brookline Booksmith, 279 Harvard St, Brookline (Coolidge Corner)
FREE

Attention female readers who are looking for some perspiration inspiration: BC professor and Liberty Athletic Club coach Catharine Utzschneider has filled a book with scientific information and personal stories about female athletes from various levels.

THUR 1/19

7:30pm
SkeeNation Boston: Season II Kickoff Tourney
at The Greatest Bar, 3rd Fl, 262 Friend St, Boston (near North Station)
FREE / 21+

There is little luck at the upper echelon of skeeball. That said... With a little luck, you and a partner could walk away from this shindig with a pair of Celtics tickets.

The costs to register for the 8-week season wasn't readily available, but you can compete tonight for free -- and there's no obligation to show up again.

Judging from last season's teams, it seems to be a healthy but casual sort of competitiveness...

Wednesday, January 18, 2012

WED 1/18: Music, Talk, Theatre, Poetry, Games


Alright, now we're getting a decent variety of cheapness in 2012...

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WED 1/18

5pm
Anthony Green: Performance & Signing
at Newbury Comics, North Market Bldg, 4 Faneuil Hall Market Pl, Boston (Quincy Market)
FREE

If you're a Circa Survive fan, you may know he's doing an in-store performance before his gig at the Paradise.

If you're not, then why not check out a free performance if you work near Faneuil Hall.

WED 1/18 (thru WED 3/7)

5:30pm to 6:45pm
"BSO 101": Adult Education Series
at Symphony Hall, 310 Mass Ave, Boston (South End-ish)
FREE

The Boston Symphony Orchestra is presenting a second season of free lectures at Symphony Hall to discuss various topics and to listen to excerpts of pieces from upcoming concerts (Mozart, Beethoven, etc).

There are 3 sessions left, and those who show up will find the answer to "What Makes a Symphony?"

The BSO discusses "Two Choral Masterpieces" on 2/15 and "Beethoven Up Close" on 3/7.

WED 1/18

6pm to 7pm
Ray Jayawardhana, "Strange New Worlds: From Meteorites in Antarctica to the Search for Life Beyond Our Solar System"
at Harvard Museum of Natural History, 26 Oxford St, Cambridge (Harvard campus)
FREE

If you missed a previous lecture about the hunt for life in the universe, we live in Boston where there are plenty of scientists who will publicly share their knowledge.

(There should be free parking in the garage at 52 Oxford Street.)

WED 1/18

7pm
Theda Skocpol & Vanessa Williamson, "The Tea Party and the Remaking of Republican Conservatism": Discussion
at Harvard Book Store, 1256 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
FREE

7:30pm
Philosophy Cafe, "A Philosophical Look at Inequality"
at Harvard Book Store, Lower Level, 1256 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
FREE

It seems like there have been quite a few books on the Tea Party. Maybe next year will see a spate of Occupy manuscripts. Since you have a pair of Harvard professors collaborating on the project, the research and analysis of the movement should be sound and reliable.

In my mind, a philosophical discussion about inequality relates to the Tea Party who seem to say that life is unfair and we should let it be.

WED 1/18 (and WED 1/25)

7:30pm to 9:30pm
Winter Panto 2012: "Humpty Dumpty"
at Black Box Theatre, Boston Center for Arts, 539 Tremont Street, Boston (South End)
$5 minimum

For many years, 'pantomime' conjured images of playing charades. Somewhere along the line, I read about the English tradition of presenting a musical/comedy show around Christmastime. They're usually silly (sometimes bawdy) versions of commonly-recognized tale.

You could pay full price on other nights, but I talk about cheap fun like pay-what-you-can nights (payable at the door day of show only) tonight and next week.

This production says it is suitable for all ages, and there's no doubt that you've never seen Humpty Dumpty like this before.

WED 1/18

8pm
Poetry Slam: World Qualifier Semi-Final
at Cantab Underground, 738 Mass Ave, Cambridge (between Central Sq & Harvard Sq)
$5

I've been to the Cantab's poetry night, and it's quite a vibrant and crowded scene. I'd get there early if you really want to get in, because it can be a full house.

Besides the open-mic at 8pm, 18 poets will compete in a two-round slam around 10pm to narrow down who will represent the Cantab at the National Poetry Slam (not in Boston this year).

WED 1/18 (and WED 1/25)

8:30pm
Roy Sludge
at Radio, 379 Somerville Ave, Somerville (Union Sq)
FREE

Last year, Sludge released a kick-ass country CD with a good dose of wit called "Too Drunk To Truck", and the songs go from there. Buy yourself another beer since you didn't pay to get in and enjoy the tunes tonight and/or next Wednesday.

When people give directions to Radio, it's easy to say, "It's across the street from Market Basket." So maybe you can do some shopping beforehand...

WED 1/18

9:30pm
"Punch Out!" Competition
at Good Life, 28 Kingston St, Boston (Downtown Crossing)
FREE

Feat: DJs El Amado, Thaddeus Jeffries, Team Teamwork

When you're not dancing, there is going to be an informal Punch Out! tournament on 2 Wii's and 2 Atari 2600's with a grand prize of dinner for two at the restaurant upstairs.

They've done Tetris and Tennis tournaments before, so they must have worked out a decent plan to make this work.

Tuesday, January 17, 2012

1/17 to 3/6: MBTA Public Meetings


If you haven't heard, the T is facing a large operating budget shortfall [Globe/Herald].

I went to a public meeting when the MBTA considered raising fares a couple years ago (and taxes were raised to avoid an increase). Someone explained the budgetary pickle much like this article.

Currently, there appears to be 2 potential proposals of fare increases & service reductions that can be reviewed in a "Discussion Guide" on the MBTA site.

There are PDF and Word versions in English, Cape Verdean, Chinese, Haitian Creole, Portuguese, Spanish, and Vietnamese. FYI, both of them screw the riders in any language...

The full schedule of related public meetings is listed below, and they begin tonight and are free to attend!

Someone recently asked me what can be done. It seems like there are a handful of options that come to mind:

1) Go to one of the public meetings to share your personal transit story and/or express general outrage.

2) Start/sign an online petition to protest the changes -- or to call for an independent audit of the MBTA books.

3) Follow a burgeoning "Occupy the MBTA" on Facebook or Twitter and see what ideas pop up.

4) Hold a fundraiser for the T.
It's my understanding that at least a few MBTA board members are supposed to be at each meeting, so your voice will be heard.

As I see it, the public needs to express their opinion on fares and services. The MBTA will feel empowered to do whatever they want if we don't participate at all.

TUES 1/17
5:30pm to 7:30pm
Newton City Hall, War Memorial Hall, 1000 Commonwealth Ave

6pm to 8pm
Worcester Public Library, Saxe Room, 3 Salem Square
WED 1/18
6pm to 8pm
Chelsea Public Library, Auditorium, 569 Broadway
THUR 1/19
6pm to 8pm
Roxbury Community College, Auditorium, 1234 Columbus Ave
MON 1/23
1pm to 3pm
4:30pm to 6:30pm
State Transportation Building, Floor 2, Conference Rooms 2 & 3, 10 Park Plaza, Boston
TUES 1/24
4:30pm to 8pm
Attleboro High School, 100 Rathbun Willard Drive
WED 1/25
6pm to 8pm
Salem City Hall Annex, 3rd Floor Conference Room, 120 Washington St
TUES 1/31
6pm to 8pm
Mildred Avenue Community Center, 5 Mildred Ave, Mattapan
WED 2/1
6pm to 8pm
Hennigan Community Center Cafeteria, 200 Heath St, Jamaica Plain
THUR 2/2
1pm to 3pm
6pm to 8pm
Dorchester House Multi-Service Center, Multi-Purpose Room, 1353 Dorchester Avenue
MON 2/6
5pm to 7pm
Lowell City Hall Council Chambers, 375 Merrimack Street
TUES 2/7
6pm to 8pm
Lynn City Council Chambers, 3 City Hall Square
WED 2/8
4:30pm to 6:30pm
Shriners Hospital Auditorium, 51 Blossom St, Boston (behind MGH)

6pm to 8pm
Hingham Town Hall, Central Meeting Room, 210 Central Street
MON 2/13
6pm to 8pm
Boston Public Library, Boston Room, 700 Boylston Street
TUES 2/14
6pm to 8pm
Framingham Town Hall, 150 Concord Street
WED 2/15
6:30pm to 8:30pm
Quincy High School Auditorium, 100 Coddington Street

6pm to 8pm
Thomas Crane Public Library Community Room, 40 Washington St, Quincy
(Thanks, Jen, for the update!)
THUR 2/16
6pm to 8pm
Malden City Council Chambers, 200 Pleasant Street
TUES 2/28
6pm to 8pm
Somerville High School Auditorium, 81 Highland Avenue
WED 2/29
6pm to 8pm
Cambridge City Hall Council Chambers, 795 Mass Ave

6pm to 8pm
Cambridge Citywide Senior Center, 806 Mass Ave
THUR 3/1
6pm to 8pm
Government Center Auditorium, 119 School Street, Waltham
TUES 3/6
6pm to 8pm
Massasoit Community College, Liberal Arts Building, Lecture Hall LA 560
1 Massasoit Boulevard, Brockton

TUES 1/17: Talk, Music

Young London, tonight at Middle East - Upstairs

There are quite a few Tuesday residencies of free music this month. It's probably a good way to get people out on a weeknight in January...

I think I posted the Young London gig, so I can remember them if they go big-time...

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TUES 1/17

6pm to 7:30pm
Lori Andrews, "I Know Who You Are and I Saw What You Did": Author Talk
at Boston Room, Boston Public Library, 700 Boylston St, Boston (Copley Sq)
FREE

It's inevitable to compromise your privacy if you do practically anything online.

Prof. Andrews will probably freak you out, but wouldn't you like to have a better understanding of what's happening when you're on Facebook -- or even send emails?

TUES 1/17

7:30pm
Eddie Scheer's Tuesday Night All-Stars
at Smoken' Joe's BBQ, 351 Washington St, Brighton (Brighton Center)
FREE

Guests Mr. Nick & Monster Mike Welch

While mainly a restauarant with a stage, there is a small bar area to have a drink and enjoy bluesy music almost every night of the week.

As for the Tuesday session, this week's guests include the fine harp skills of Mr. Nick and hotshot blues guitarist Mike Welch who is known across the country/globe.

TUES 1/17

Abbie Barrett & The Last Date (7:30pm), The Blue Ribbons (10pm)
at Toad, 1912 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Porter Sq)
FREE

On their latest release, Abbie Barrett & The Last Date shares a trio of uptempo indie-poppers that I enjoy a bit more than the folkier, sensitive stuff. I think The Blue Ribbons have been doing their weekly bluesy/rootsy weirdness for a while -- and that's a good thing.

TUES 1/17

8:30pm
Kristen Ford Band, Tilt-A-Whirl
at Sally O'Brien's, 335 Somerville Ave, Somerville (Union Sq)
FREE / 21+

It's a Kristen Ford double-header. There's a different band opening during this January residency, except she'll be in the drum chair for the loose rock of Tilt-A-Whirl before leading her positive-vibe, folky pop-rock.

TUES 1/17

Richard James & The Name Changers (10pm), The Hornitz (8:30pm)
at Church, 69 Kilmarnock St, Boston (Fenway)
FREE / 21+

Thanks to MySecretBoston, Church is a spot for free, funky, jam-bandish rock every Tuesday this month.

To give you an idea what to expect from RJ & The Name Changers, someone listed last week's songs on the residency Facebook page. Besides their originals, the band worked in several tunes by Phish and The Beatles.

Tonight's opener is also the horn section for The Name Changers who do some cool stuff with drum machines, etc.

TUES 1/17

8:30pm
Young London, Glowkids & Fuse, Mic Raygun, Michael Hensley
at Middle East - Upstairs, 472 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$9 / 18+

Hey, I've posted other electro-pop gigs. Young London may be too sleek 'n polished for my taste, but they probably have a better chance at national fame than most of the local bands I love. The Phoenix even called them one of the 12 best new bands for the upcoming year.

There are DJ's and other electro-popsters on the bill. I sorta dig the rougher sound of Mic Raygun who will supposedly give free flash drives to the first 10 people that say, "Dicks, pits and lady bits" to him after his set.

Monday, January 16, 2012

MON 1/16: MLK, Art, Talk, Music, Trivia


Happy Dr. MLK Jr Day!

I hope most of you don't have to work today.

If not, you can pretend you're a fighter for social justice.

Hey, The White Owls and Andrea Gillis Band are at Toad (for free) tonight too.

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MON 1/16

10am to 4:45pm
MLK Jr Day -- Open House
at Museum of Fine Arts, 465 Huntington Ave, Boston (Fenway)
FREE

I have been to an Open House day in the expanded MFA, and there was a reasonable amount of room for me. Of course there are musical performances and art activities, or you could check out a couple exhibits then do something else with the rest of the day.

This is a good chance to see "Degas and the Nude" that is closing next month and going to Musée d’Orsay in Paris. It could be described as a hundred naked ladies, but it's also a study by one of the pioneering Impressionists.

MON 1/16

1pm
"A Day of Service & Celebration In Honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr."
at Faneuil Hall, 1 Faneuil Hall Market Pl, Boston
FREE

Feat: Boston Youth Symphony Orchestra, Dr. Alvin Poussaint, Steve Grossman, Lee Pelton, Tulaine Marshall, more

Above the souvenir booths, the City and the Museum of African American History present a program to honor the man whose dream has given some of us a day off.

Amid performances from the Boston Youth Symphony Orchestra, people like the state treasurer, Emerson College's President, and more will read passages by Dr. King.

Psychiatrist and educator Dr. Alvin Poussaint will deliver the keynote address.

MON 1/16

6pm to 9pm
Rock Shop #14: "The Need to Be Heard"
at Great Scott, 1222 Comm Ave, Allston
FREE

Feat: Audrey Ryan, Michael Creamer, Will Dailey, David Day

The Rock Shop series is geared towards the music realm, but maybe anyone in a creative endeavor might hear something beneficial.

Perhaps any kind of artist who does their thing very independently could benefit from "The Need to Be Heard", a book by Audrey Ryan that is the foundation of tonight's discussion with other musicians and music professionals.

Not only do you walk away with a bunch of tips, you also meet other local music people -- like the monthly Rock 'n' Roll Social at at the Model Cafe.

MON 1/16

7:30pm
"James Brown Get Down for MLK Day!"
at Arts at The Armory Cafe, 191 Highland Ave, Somerville (Spring Hill)
$3 Suggested Donation

If you don't recall why watching vintage concert footage of James Brown makes sense for a MLK Jr Day celebration, it was Soul Brother Number One who televised his concert at the Boston Garden on the night of King's assassination.

It's widely believed this prevented major rioting in Boston that plagued other cities across the country. There's a DVD about the concert, and I bet some of it will be shown tonight.

MON 1/16

8pm to 10pm
The Big Quiz Thing
at Club Oberon, 2 Arrow St, Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
FREE

Yes, Virginia, there is a free trivia night where there's a $200 1st-place prize.

It's very competitive, but it can be done. The Cheap Thrills Boston team tied for 2nd place in June. I think our team helped to make the night considered to be "The ideal live-trivia audience".

Your average pub trivia is alright, but this is probably the most entertaining trivia game I've played.

MON 1/16

9pm
The Sound of Growing Up, The Winter Sounds, Triggers
at Middle East - Upstairs, 472 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$10 / 18+

Attention powerpop lovers, there is gig that will warm your musical cockles as the temperature has become wintry. If you don't dig the keyboard-heavy, uptempo Sound Of Growing Up with bits of horns and ukulele, you might like The Winter Sounds from Nashville via Athens, GA. From what I heard The Winter Sounds sound more UK than Southern with precious melodies and sparkling guitars.

If not those two, Pittsburgh's Triggers should sink their big tasty hooks in your ears. (Too many cliches? Hope not.) Even if you don't go, take a listen and find some new mixtape tracks.

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