WED 11/30: Fashion & Music

Gah! Here are some cheap ideas for today. I suspect Thursday cheapness will be on the calendar later.

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WED 11/30

6pm to 7pm
Zandra Rhodes: Artist Talk
at Tower Auditorium, 621 Huntington Ave, Boston (MassArt campus)
FREE

Fashion fans: Bold, British designer Zandra Rhodes is speaking tonight. I assume she'll talk about the fashion sceene in the '70s, dressing celebrities like Princess Di, and creating costumes for operas.

WED 11/30

6:30pm to 8:30pm
Bora Yoon: Cybersounds Electronic Music Series
at Atlantic Wharf, 290 Congress Street, Boston (near South Station)
FREE

File this under "Could be kinda cool".

There have been a few other concerts in the "Cybersounds" Series, but the Boston premiere of "( (( PHONATION )) )" may be a standout, because Yoon has been covered in publications like the NY Times and Wall Street Journal and played impressive gigs around the world.

It's a multi-media piece with live visuals along with the music.

WED 11/30

9pm
Cruzamente
at Milky Way Lounge/Bella Luna, 284 Amory St, Jamaica Plain (The Brewery Complex)
FREE

This is an all-female band who combine the various sounds of Cape Verde into an smooth, buoyant blend that you'd expect from islands with Portuguese/African/Caribbean influences.

WED 11/30

9pm
Sarah Rabdau & Self-Employed Assassins, Pearl & the Beard, Box Five
at Radio, 379 Somerville Ave, Somerville (Union Sq)
$7 / 21+

For a while, the Self-Employed Assassins were a rather thin corps consisting of the drummer. He's been joined by a bassist and keyboardist that still leaves plenty of room for the beautiful voice of Sarah Rabdau to get out front and dazzle.

It's a fantastic night to hear several original twists of indie-pop besides Sarah & S.E.A. The delightful Pearl and the Beard from Brooklyn bring their skewed acoustic goodness as they kick off a leg of East Coast gigs. Mary Bichner of Box Five has synesthesia, which must be quite an experience because I feel a tingle when listening to her amazing arrangements.

TUES 11/29: Music, Talk, Film

The holiday tree lightings are not my sort of thing, but it's happening in Copley Square tonight (5pm). There will be music, dance, and refreshments... The Boston Common Tree Lighting happens on Wednesday.

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TUES 11/29

6pm
"CQ Presents" Kick Off Party
at TT the Bear's Place, 10 Brookline St, Cambridge (Central Sq)
FREE / 21+

Feat: Autochrome, DJ Mike the Considerate

If you've looked at the TT's calendar on a regular basis and have been impressed with the number of really good bands, this party may be a goodwill gesture to the patrons and a welcome to people who haven't hung out before.

After 17 years, booker Randi Millman has moved on; and CQ Presents will be booking bands as it does for Great Scott and O'Brien's. They're "having a party with food, drinks, a performance by Autochrome and DJ sets by DJ Mike the Considerate."

I'm guessing Autochrome will play closer to 8pm than 6pm.

TUES 11/29

6pm to 7:30pm
Life in the Universe, Part 4: "Finding Intelligence"
at MIT Museum, 265 Mass Ave, Cambridge (near Central Sq)
FREE

Feat: Richard Wrangham, Paul Horowitz

Even if you missed the first 3 lectures, you'll probably still appreciate the last session in this series where MIT and Harvard profs discuss our place in the universe.

TUES 11/29

6pm
Gregory Maguire, "Out of Oz": Author Talk
at Rabb Lecture Hall, Boston Public Library, 700 Boylston St, Boston (Copley Sq)
FREE

The author of "Wicked" has finished his literary journey through Oz with his latest volume.

He's also appearing in Harvard Square on WED 12/7.

TUES 11/29

7pm
"Hope and Change? A Conversation on the Obama Presidency": Panel Discussion
at Conference Auditorium, 2nd Fl, Sherman Union, 775 Comm Ave, Boston (BU campus)
FREE w/ RSVP

Feat: Thomas Fiedler, Robert Zelnick, Anthony Priestas, Tabitha Watson, Dean Kenneth Elmore

BU faculty and students will discuss how the "hopey-changey" President has done so far. From what I've read, there may be an emphasis on the perception of young voters, but that makes sense.

If you don't want to go, it will be live-streamed.

TUES 11/29

7pm
Michael Holley, "War Room: The Legacy of Bill Belichick and the Art of Building the Perfect Team": Reading
at Brookline Booksmith, 279 Harvard St, Brookline (Coolidge Corner)
FREE

Sports reporter Michael Holley was given a lot of access to Belichick for the writing of this book that apparently is heavy on football and light on personal topics.

TUES 11/29

7pm, 9pm
"The Way of the Warrior-Bunny": Screening
at Somerville Theatre Microcinema, 55 Davis Square, Somerville
$6

Feat: "The Psynging Psychologist", Unreliable Narrator Podcast Group sketch, Tony Moschetto, Ryan Douglass

There is a lot of peculiar things happening in Somerville. For instance, this will be a sci-fi comedy about an intergalactic warrior-bunny. "WotWB" will be available for viewing on the web, all 'episodes' will be shown tonight along with a variety of live performances from comedians & folks that appear to be involved with the web series.

If the image of a man-bunny isn't enough, maybe this 'theme song' clip may give you an idea of what to expect.

TUES 11/29

8pm to Midnight
Nat Mugavero, Leo Genovese, Dan Blake, Garth Stevenson
at The Beehive, 541 Tremont St, Boston (South End)
FREE

The Beehive has jazz on many nights. These guys are top-notch players who are getting their free-jazz on tonight.

TUES 11/29

8:30pm
Ladies Coverband Night: "Country Sparrows"
at Precinct, 70 Union Sq, Somerville (Union Sq)
$7

Feat:
Bitch Trifecta as Dolly Parton
Jean Sullivan as Lucinda Williams
Anna Rae as Emmylou Harris
Anya Rose as Peggy Lee
Hannah Cranton as Loretta Lynn

There was a similar ladies coverband night at Precinct earlier in the year where the performers paid tribute to female rock performers, and tonight it's country night.

Of the 5 artists being covered, there is a lot songs to choose from. My understanding is that Emmylou, Peggy Lee, and Loretta Lynn will be preformed together in the round. Bitch Trifecta is going to have 8 people on stage to do Dolly Parton. Not many people look like Dolly, so I doubt there will be Halloween-style costuming.

TUES 11/29

10:30pm
Red Heroine, Coyote Kolb
at Plough & Stars, 912 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$5-ish / 21+

Whether they're called Red Heroine or Mr Sister, the band makes fantastic music around a beautiful voice. On the last night of their Wednesday residency, they're joined by Coyote Kolb. It's my belief that these are two of the Boston-area bands that would (and should) be loved by people far and wide.

MON 11/28: Bin Laden, Food, Rock

Am posting an abbreviated list before it gets too late. There are a couple more Monday options on the calendar.

I didn't find out much about MassArt's exhibit "Questionable Crumpets", but there's an opening reception tonight from 6pm to 8pm at the Doran Gallery [PDF map]. Intriguing elements: 1) a reference to M.F.K. Fisher and 2) refreshments provided by the 'Food & Art' class.

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MON 11/28

6pm to 7:30pm
Nicholas Schmidle, "The Hunt for bin Laden": Lecture
at Room 008, Devlin Hall, 140 Comm Ave, Chestnut Hill (BC campus)
FREE

Schmidle wrote a detailed article about the mission that killed Osama Bin Laden. There were some people that doubted all of the information, and he has tried to defend himself.

This is a chance to hear it from him and maybe ask that killer question that makes him crack.

MON 11/28

7pm to 9pm
Bill Yosses, "Lip Smackin' Science: Crystals, Emulsions, Foams, and Pink Vanilla Cupcakes": Lecture
at Science Center, Hall C, 1 Oxford St, Cambridge (Harvard campus)
FREE

Sure, it could be cool to hear the White House's executive pastry chef talk about food science. (You can watch his 2010 appearance on >YouTube and elsewhere.)

This is also a reminder to the foolhardy that tickets for Ferran Adria's lecture on SUN 12/4 will become available tomorrow at the >Harvard Box Office. Good luck...

MON 11/28

10pm
>Thick Shakes, >Radio Control, >Squall
at >Charlie's Kitchen, 10 Eliot St, Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
$5 / 21+

If I were to go to a rock show tonight, I'd head to Charlie's. I'd probably get there early, enjoy a few beverages, and hope that I could pick a few songs on the jukebox and hear them before the bands go on.

If the Thick Shakes are playing a gig, it's worthwhile to go just for their contemporary take on old-school garage-rock that may lay waste across your ears, but you'll admiringly bounce around the room.

From what I hear, you won't be disappointed by Radio Control and Squall.

SUN 11/27: Records, Folk, Rock

Again, just a good day to go outside. Maybe hang out in solidarity with the Occupy Boston before it gets too cold...

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SUN 11/27

10am to 3pm
Boston-Somerville Vinylpalooza
at Boston-Somerville Holiday Inn, 30 Washington St. Somerville (near Sullivan Sq)
$3 / FREE for ages 12 and under

When you have to pay $3 to buy stuff, it doesn't feel like a 'cheap thrill'. On the other hand, there was a source that suggested you get 4 raffle tickets with admission.

Usually these things are out in Woburn, so vinyl lovers can browse and buy.

It's not a far walk from Sullivan Square T, but there will supposedly be a free shuttle.

SUN 11/27

8pm
Suzie Brown, Jenee Halstead, Eric Schwartz
at The Burren, 247 Elm St, Somerville (Davis Sq)
Donation Suggested / 21+

Pass by the Irish seisun players in the front room, and head for the back for three singer-songwriter types. Both Suzie and Jenee have some country lilt; Jenee leans a little bluegrassy too. Check out Eric Schwartz if you like a good dose of humor & wit. Like other Sundays, festivities are hosted by the witty Tom Bianchi.

SUN 11/27

The New Highway Hymnal (11pm), The Fagettes (10pm), The Dirty Virgins (9pm)
at Church, 69 Kilmarnock St, Boston (Fenway)
$8 / 21+

There's going to be a fun mix of modern/retro pysch-rock, ragged indie-rock, and loud 'n messy punk rock. I was hoping to spend a bit more time with these bands, but I really dig how The Dirty Virgins rip it up with abandon.

SAT 11/26: Shakespeare, Holiday, Tubas, Rock, Hip-Hop

Wow, what a beautiful day! I'm not sure what I will do, but walking around a favorite part of town doesn't cost anything. (Until one stops for refreshments.)

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SAT 11/26

Noon
"The Merry Wives of Windsor": Open Rehearsal
at Downstairs at The Garage, 38 JFK St, Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
FREE w/ RSVP

I went to the open rehearsal for "Othello" last year. It was almost a full house, so attempting to go without an RSVP would mean that (A) you're already in Harvard Square and you see the doors near 7-Eleven at the Garage or (B) you really love to see the inner workings of a Shakespeare production.

I should mention that "The Merry Wives of Windsor" runs from 12/7 to 1/1 at the Davis Square Theatre. If you buy tickets between now and Monday, save 25% by using the name of this animal as the discount code.

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SAT 11/26

Noon to 8pm target="_blank"
City of Lights Parade & Holiday Art Stroll
around Downtown Lowell (PDF map/program)
Mostly Free/Cheap

Parade -- 4:30pm to 6:30pm

The Lowell Winterfest is a fun afternoon (in February) with human dog-sled races, marshmallows on a stick, free skating at Tsongas Arena, and so on. That's why I find it appealing to wander around downtown Lowell with some holiday kitsch here and there. Don't get your hopes up for a ride on the Lowell tour trolley, but you can call 978-970-5000.

It may be cold enough to vote in the hot chocolate competition (see PDF map) at 10 stores for 25 cents per cup. I like how a van has been decorated and converted into a mobile art store.

The parade at 4:30pm is basically a town Xmas parade, and a holiday choral concert in a church courtyard follows at 6:30pm.

There is free parking at 2 nearby garages (PDF map).

SAT 11/26

2pm
Annual Boston TubaChristmas
between Faneuil Hall & Quincy Market, 1 Faneuil Hall Market Pl, Boston
FREE

My assumption that a hundred tubas/euphoniums/sousaphones playing holiday music would be amusing and absurd. It's actually just as musical and pleasing as any holiday concert.

There is still a holly-jolly vibe, but the lower timbre rounded the edges on some of the songs.

It's not as silly as I had hoped, but that is a lot of tubas in one place.
I hesitate to recommend going out of your way, but I stayed much longer than expected as I passed by.

SAT 11/26

9pm
Eldridge Rodriguez, Stereo Soul Future
at Radio, 379 Somerville Ave, Somerville (Union Sq)
$5 / 21+

How many bands do you want for $5? If it's only two good ones, then it's preferable over 2 good ones and sitting through a couple clam-baggers.

If you're familiar with the fantastic Beatings, then you should dig Eldridge Rodriguez's (the head Beating) excellent solo work. The guitars are dialed down a bit and it's more Eldridge, but the songs still have some roughness and are really damn good.

I'm not sure if I've ever listened to Stereo Soul Future before although they've been around (on and off) for a while. It's doubtful that their well-crafted pop/rock will ever be called 'soul' in the future, but there are many fine melodies.

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SAT 11/26

9pm
Benefit For MC Exposition
at Church, 69 Kilmarnock St, Boston (Fenway)
$10 / 21+

Feat: Akrobatik, Virtuoso, J The S, Toussaint, The Un, Tag, Oak Lonetree, The Yukonn MC, D-Tension, more

Before they moved to California, Audible Mainframe was a much-beloved Boston hip-hop full band. Recently frontman -- and young guy -- MC Exposition was diagnosed with cancer.

He's moved back to Boston, and many of the raptastic & funkiest in town are performing at this benefit. There will be raffles, of course, so no harm in trying to win something and being generous at the same time.

Weekend Calendar

I like the variety tomorrow.

There's an open rehearsal for a production of "The Merry Wives of Windsor" that's coming to the Somerville Theatre (12/7 to 1/1). Try to email an RSVP for the Saturday noon session, and see what happens.

FRI 11/25

Since the two gigs I've listed below are on the folky/rootsy side, I would be remiss if I didn't remind people there's free roots/folk music at Toad or Sally O'Briens (Jimmy Ryan tonight) or Bull McCabes.

And there's free jazz at Wally's.

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FRI 11/25

9:15 pm
The Dejas, Sarah Blacker, Jeff Savlon
at Lizard Lounge/Cambridge Common, 1667 Mass Ave, Cambridge (between Harvard Sq & Porter Sq)
$7 / 21+

Some bands play Thanksgiving Eve, but The Dejas seem to have a post-Turkey Day tradition. While they normally cover a lot of musical ground as an acoustic-guitar-and-percussion duo, a drummer is joining them tonight to add dimension to their clever tunes. Singer-songwriters Sarah Blacker and Jeff Savlon will attempt to burn calories by strumming and singing.

FRI 11/25

9pm
Cassavettes, Big East, Bearfight, The Autumn Hollow Band, Beware the Dangers of a Ghost Scorpion
at The Paradise, 967 Comm. Ave., Boston (near BU)
$15 / 18+

Alt-country rockers Cassavettes played a farewell gig about a year ago, however we know these breaks don't always last. Although it's over $10, it's for a good cause as singing Cassavette Glenn Yoder is raising funds for the Boys & Girls Clubs.

The Reunion show looks like a good time with a bunch of rockin' bands. The Facebook page lists a bunch of raffle prizes. Good times!

11/25: Buy Nothing Day

* Buy Nothing Day *
at any location
FREE

It's kinda funny, but the people that inspired Occupy Wall Street/Boston/Oakland/etc have been advocating "Buy Nothing Day" for 20 years.

Honestly, I'm not sure how I feel about a bunch of radical Canadians pushing the socio-economic agenda. On the other hand, someone has to do it.

It's not about spending less than $10, but there's no need to engage in an orgy of conspicuous consumerism even if there is a really cheap TV.

Perhaps we don't stop the behemoth of big-box retail stores that force jobs out of the US. Maybe if a few less people refuse to play their game this year, more people will do it next year -- and so on...

Some may say this is anti-American.

Everyone is entitled to their opinion, however we should think about the Americans that operate independent businesses and live in our neighborhoods.

I want to support those people as much as I can.

And buy their stuff on Sunday...

THUR 11/24: Happy Turkey Day

I'm thankful for many things. Among them, I'm grateful that people read the stuff I put here and have a good time.

There will also be live jazz at The Beehive from noon to midnight. You have a drink at the bar while people eat fancy meals.

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THUR 11/24

Noon, 4pm
"Alice's Restaurant Massacree": Thanksgiving Broadcast
on WZLX (100.7 FM), WUMB (91.9 FM), more
FREE

Way back in 1965, Arlo Guthrie celebrated Thanksgiving out in the Berkshires. As hippies they were often oppressed by "The Man", so he and a friend were arrested for 'littering'.

It's kind of funny -- and it goes on for more than 18 minutes -- so I might listen whille doing my Thanksgiving prep...

YouTube and so forth below.

THUR 11/24

Noon
Thanksgiving Meal
at Great Scott, 1222 Comm Ave, Allston
Free / All Ages

For more than 20 years, Great Scott (Phoenix write-up from a few years ago) has been a place for people who don't have anywhere to go on Thanksgiving -- or simply have nowhere to go. I wish I had first-hand knowledge to pass on, but I'm usually content to cook for myself when I'm eating solo.

From what I can gather: A few hundred people show up as they serve food from approximately noon to 4pm.

They say, "Everyone is welcome to lend a hand or grab a plate."

11/24: "Alice's Restaurant" on Boston Radio

Since it's probably been at least a year since you've listened, you might want to tune in on Turkey Day.

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9am, Noon, 4pm
"Alice's Restaurant Massacree": Thanksgiving Broadcast
at WZLX (100.7 FM)
FREE

Also on WUMB-FM (91.9 FM) at 9am and noon. Other stations may play it, but these two have it easily found on their websites.

Way back in 1965, Arlo Guthrie celebrated Thanksgiving out in Great Barrington, Mass. Since hippies were typically oppressed by "The Man", he and a friend were 'arrested for littering' when they couldn't find a good place to put the preprandial rubbish.

This is his amusing musical statement that runs more than 18 minutes, so it may be the longest Thanksgiving song ever -- except when Guthrie performs a longer version...

I did actually listen last year, and I smiled a lot and giggled quite a bit.

If you don't want to wait for the radio -- or pay for it -- I've included two clips of the whole thing. Pretend you're flipping the record over.

WED 11/23: Rockabilly, Indie-Folk, Punk, Dance

Isn't this usually the night where people hang out at the bar with Bud/Bud Light specials near their parents' home? If you're not going to grab a couple drinks with your high school pals, there is music around town.

Tomorrow is one of those meager days regarding entertainment options. You could sidle to The Beehive's bar for live jazz while others eat chef-made turkey plates. If you're looking for company and camaraderie, Great Scott annually hosts a thanksgiving meal where "all are welcome".

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WED 11/23

9pm
A Night with The Cranktones
at Midway Cafe, 3496 Washington St, Jamaica Plain
$5-ish

I'm not sure if The Cranktones are going to play all night, or if they're going to morph into the country-ish outfits that share members: The Coachmen or The Spurs. I'm positive you're going to hear some great rockabilly at some point.

Although this is one of those annual pre-Thanksgiving gigs, I'm not even sure what the cover charge will be. Proceed with caution.

WED 11/23

Aunt Martha (11:30pm), You Won't (10:30pm), Andrea Belanger (9:45pm), Herego (9pm)
at TT the Bear's Place, 10 Brookline St, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$9

Hey, folky indie-rock fans. Feel like some good tunes tonight? I've listened to You Won't before and liked what I've heard. (They're even getting some non-local attention.) I don't recall hearing Aunt Martha, but they're a New Hampshire band who named their latest recording after a town in Maine and played Bonnaroo this year.

WED 11/23

9:30pm
The Welch Boys, The Blue Bloods, Mark Lind & The Unloved, The Scars
at Great Scott, 1222 Comm Ave, Allston
$10 / 18+

Believe it or not, but this is "Thanksgiving Eve Fiasco VI". Mark Lind has organized 6 consecutive punk-rock shows prior to turkey and football, and this is the first year at Great Scott.

Like I mentioned seeing old friends in today's preamble, this is a show where some of these bands haven't played out in a while. Based on gigs over the years, I'm guessing these guys are friends. There's going to be a lot of love in the room.

A lot of booze and loud guitars too.

WED 11/23 (and 11/30)

9:30pm
The Grateful Dread
at Lizard Lounge/Cambridge Common, 1667 Mass Ave, Cambridge (between Harvard Sq & Porter Sq)
$10

Umm... This concept might be too much for me. All I can say is that it's exactly what you'd expect: reggae-style Grateful Dead songs.

No, you can't "get irie" in the club.

WED 11/23

10pm
Bodega Girls present "Cool Ranch"
at Middlesex Lounge, 315 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
FREE / 21+

Feat: DJ Leah V

It's probably a good idea to dance your ass off before stuffing your face tomorrow. Usually the Bodega Girls act as DJs on 'Cool Ranch' nights while inviting other bands to play. Since their only guest seems to be DJ Leah V, they might whip out a couple live tunes.

Or maybe you won't care when you're there. From what I've seen, this is one of those dance nights that a rock guy like me could enjoy.

TUES 11/22: Latino, French, Roots, Rock

Did you remember today is the anniversary of JFK's assassination?

If you're in Brookline today, his birthplace will be open (for free) until 4:30pm with a brief memorial at 1pm.

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TUES 11/22

5:30pm
Boston Latino International Film Festival: Closing Night
at Weiner Auditorium, Taubman Bldg, 79 JFK St, Cambridge (Harvard Kennedy School)
FREE

5:30pm -- South American Program 2: "La Vigilia" w/ "A Wild Idea"
7:30pm -- Cuban Program: "Portraits and the Malecon"
8:30pm -- Closing Ceremony
8:50pm -- Closing Program: "TRUST: Second Acts in Young Lives", "The Big Deal", "Tita"

Yeah, yeah, yeah. I don't know why I didn't list BLIFF earlier. Not all screenings were free, by the way.

The South American Program includes Peruvian thriller "La Vigilia" and a documentary short about "A Wild Idea" suggested by the Ecuadorean government.

The Cuban Program is a 50-minute 'portrait' of Havana's long seawall/walkway.

The Closing Program includes US Latino narrative shorts and a documentary about Chicago teens finding help through a theater program.

TUES 11/22

7pm to 8:30pm
"Yves Saint Laurent, le temps retrouvé": Screening
at French Cultural Center, 53 Marlborough St, Boston (Back Bay)
FREE

Over the last 50 years, this man's name is more attached to an image than a real person.

The '02 documentary interviews Yves and some of his friends (including his lover/business partner) to profile the fashion genius behind the brand.

The screening will start at 7pm, so they recommend arriving early. And they also recommend to RSVP: 617-912-0400.

"French, with English subtitles"

TUES 11/22

9pm
Jimmy Ryan & Hayride, Dietrich Strause
at Lizard Lounge/Cambridge Common, 1667 Mass Ave, Cambridge (between Harvard Sq & Porter Sq)
$5 advance / $7 door

There may not be another mandolinist that plays with more rock 'n roll sensibility than Jimmy Ryan. If they do, Jimmy is still way better. He'll be joined by an all-star rootsy band. Singer-songwriter Dietrich Strause will have a backing band as well tonight.

TUES 11/22

9:30pm
The Wandas, Slowdim, Slothrust, I Have Ears
at Great Scott, 1222 Comm Ave, Allston
$8 / 18+

You can't say that The Wandas aren't putting in the effort to be all that they can be. They'be been on the road for more than 10 weeks! Not only do these guys hustle, they know how to write uber-hooky indie-rock.

Add some dreamy fuzz from Slowdim and fresh powerpop by I Have Ears, and you should have a good time.

Sunday Calendar

As I'm leaving the state in a few minutes, the Sunday post is up in the air.

SAT 11/19: Nighttime Cheapness

Go out and have fun -- tonight or tomorrow!

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SAT 11/19

7pm
"There Will Be Words": New Play Workshop
at Trident Booksellers & Cafe, 338 Newbury St, Boston (Back Bay)
FREE

How often do you get to give feedback to the playwright after seeing the work performed? I might recognize David Mamet if I saw him, but I wouldn't want to receive a disgusted glare.

After readings of "The Watchmaker" and "The Hollow Men", Greg Davis will be ready to talk about the plays and hear your thoughts, questions, etc.

The Vagabond Theatre Group is probably presenting this in the back of the room where they also serve tasty food and drink (including beer & wine). This could be a good, low-key evening of cultural entertainment.

SAT 11/19

Full Body Anchor (9:30pm), A Wish For Fire (10:30pm)
at Tommy Doyle's, 96 Winthrop St, Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
$5 / 21+

For some reason, this room doesn't host a lot of kick-ass shows even though it's the original House of Blues. (Was it cooler because Dan Ackroyd might show up?)

For a low cover, you get all-killer, no-filler from a couple bands who played on the same 1st-round night on this year's Rumble. Neither won the whole she-bang, but I lean towards Full Body Anchor taking tonight. The big gutars and textures maintain an accessibility without sacrificing the rawk. A Wish For Fire make a rather pleasing modern, proggy sound -- and they will cover "Nights in White Satin" tonight. Hmm!

SAT 11/19

9pm
Kristen Ford Band, Abbie Barrett & the Last Date, Coyote Kolb
at Lizard Lounge/Cambridge Common, 1667 Mass Ave, Cambridge (between Harvard Sq & Porter Sq)
$10 / 21+

Bot Kristen Ford and Abbie Barrett have new CD's to celebrate tonight, and Kristen is back from a 2-month solo(ish) tour.. It's one of those shows I like to hear in the warm, intimate basement with a lot folky-poppy singer-songwriters. Coyote Kolb who usually do a loud, bluesy thang are doing an acoustic set.

SAT 11/19

9:30pm
Pretty & Nice, Miniboone, earthquake party!, The Clippers
at Great Scott, 1222 Comm Ave, Allston
$9 / 21+

When people ask me what local bands I like, I usually go blank. Then Pretty & Nice is one of the first bands that come to mind. I love the juiced-up, punky powerpop of their "Get Young" album, and their still whip up a fantastic racket based on this new track.

Three like-minded bands who each do their own things are joining the party. earthquake party! has made 100 cassettes of their most recent 3-track release, and I think it would have been a favorite when I was driving around in my high-school-era Subaru.

SAT 11/19

10pm
Quilt, Girlfriends, Creaturos
at The Lily Pad, 1353 Cambridge St, Cambridge (Inman Sq)
$10

Another of the bands on the shortlist of faves is Girlfriends. Perhaps I should try to analyze the special elements, because there are a bunch of bands in the world that play fuzzy, lo-fi garage pop. These folks simply put it together in a way that resonates with my ears.

There was a good article on Quilt a couple weeks ago, and you get that there is a sincere belief in the folky psych rock.

Kudos to Creaturos who include members of Doomstar! & Ketman (and maybe Quilt?); they're playing consecutive nights in Boston, and I think they had another gig last week. If you have 14 minutes to spare, you should listen to the single Bandcamp track. It would be about 5 songs, but the transitions blend together into a crazy sound journey.

SAT 11/19: Daytime Cheapness

Well, Friday was not my day.

On the bright side, I'm here on Saturday.

(Sunday cheapness on the calendar.)

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SAT 11/19 (and SUN 11/20)

Noon to 6pm
Annual Open Studios
at Brickbottom Studios, 1 Fitchburg St, Somerville (near Twin City Plaza)
at Joy Street Studios, 86 Joy St, Somerville (near Union Sq)
FREE

About 50 to 60 artists in each of the studios will open their doors to show you their stuff. Expect to see a wide variety of styles and media. My theory is that the art is more creative when the studio location is grimy and unpleasant.

The 2 buildings are only a couple blocks away. It might be easier to approach from Union Square, but there are (easy-to-miss) stairs if you take the train to Lechmere and walk over the bridge.

SAT 11/19

12:30pm to 5pm
"Cyberspace and Civic Space"
at Robsham Theater Arts Center, 140 Comm Ave, Chestnut Hill (BC campus)
FREE w/ RSVP

12:30pm -- Introductions
12:45pm -- "The Political Impact of the Internet"
2:15pm -- "The Social Impact of the Internet"
3:15pm -- "The Cultural Impact of the Internet"

Besides making this little blog available, the Internet has changed your lives in a variety of ways. Many informed and opinionated panelists will discuss for about 50 minutes then there's 25 minutes of audience questions.

I'd suggest registering online, but I doubt they'd reject if there is space... (I assume one can show up at 2:15pm or 3:15pm?)

SAT 11/19

1pm
Shaquille O'Neal, "Shaq Uncut: My Story": Book Signing
at Harvard Book Store, 1256 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
FREE

Unfortunately, there's not a lot of space for easy sight lines. You might still be able to see "The Big Shamrock" and yell something at him. Or you could buy the book. The nitty-gritty info:

This is a book signing only.

Customers who wish to join the signing line must have at least one copy of Shaq: Uncut with proof of purchase from Harvard Book Store.

Shaq will not be personalizing books or signing any materials other than the book.

Photographs can only be taken from the line, Shaq will not be posing for pictures.

I imagine you could make him smile by insulting Kobe Bryant while he's signing you book.

SAT 11/19

7pm
"There Will Be Words": New Play Workshop
at Trident Booksellers & Cafe, 338 Newbury St, Boston (Back Bay)
FREE

How often do you get to give feedback to the playwright after seeing the work performed? I might recognize David Mamet if I saw him, but I wouldn't want to receive a disgusted glare.

After readings of "The Watchmaker" and "The Hollow Men", Greg Davis will be ready to talk about the plays and hear your thoughts, questions, etc.

The Vagabond Theatre Group is probably presenting this in the back of the room where they also serve tasty food and drink (including beer & wine). This could be a good, low-key evening of cultural entertainment.

Friday/Saturday Calendar

Yes... a Friday post is coming up.

There is a lot of good music options tonight! Then there's a dance performance in a South End gallery and improv comedy in Harvard Square.

THUR 11/17: Art, Film, Music

The International Pop Overthrow continues in Union Square through Saturday. If you're into early electroacoustic music, the Sound in SPACE Festival is taking place through Saturday on the Northeastern campus (mainly).

If you're in Brookline tonight, it will probably be easy to see the hoopla ("1st Light Festival"?) around town. There's a PDF schedule if you want to seek or avoid anything.

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THUR 11/17

6pm to 8pm
"Hungry For Death: Destroy All Monsters": Opening Reception / Talk / Performance
at Stone Gallery, 1st Fl, College of Fine Arts Bldg, 855 Comm Ave, Boston (BU campus)
FREE

From late-'60s/early-'70s Michigan, bands like The Stooges and MC5 gained popularity. Destroy All Monsters was another band in that scene that lies lower on the radar, but they were crazy dudes who also made a lot of low art as well as making a racket. Both the audio and visuals "took inspiration from monster movies, psychedelia, comic books, and thrift store junk."

It seems as if this exhibition that includes original and '96 reunion material has been traveling around for a year or so.

The cool part is that members Cary Loren and James Hoff will be on hand tonight to speak and perform in some manner.

THUR 11/17

7pm to 8:30pm
"We Still Live Here": Screening & Discussion
at Room 190, Pierce Laboratory, 33 Mass Ave, Cambridge (MIT campus)
FREE

Panel: Anne Makepeace, Jessie Little Doe Baird, Nitana Hicks, Norvin Richards

It's cool that a Wampanoag woman, Jessie Little Doe Baird, has revived their previously 'extinct' language, and this film documents the journey (which probably includes her linguistic studies at MIT).

She'llbe in attendance along with filmmaker Anne Makepeace.

THUR 11/17

8pm
Lovers, Grygiel, Des Ark, The Shondes
at O'Brien's, 3 Harvard St, Allston
$8 / 21+

If there's a thread connecting these bands, I'll go out on a limb and say it's a line-up of queer rock and pop. I adored Jen Grygiel's stuff with MEandJoanCollins, and she has put together another very rocking self-titled band. Former Bostonian Lovers have progressed from indie-folk to a synthy, poppier. Des Ark and The Shondes bring the punky rock from Philly & NYC respectively.

THUR 11/17

9:30pm
Aliza's Brain Trust Benefit
at The Haven, 2 Perkins St, Jamaica Plain
Donation strongly encouraged!

Feat: Tanya Donelly, Shepherdess, Banditas, Second Hand News

Let's just say: How cool is that Tanya Donelly (Belly, Throwing Muses) is playing at a Scottish restaurant in JP?!

Tonight is actually a benefit and birthday party. My guess is that Vicky (Tanya Donelly superfan) asked TD to play for her birthday. Tanya asks friends like Hilken Mancini (Shepherdess) to play, and someone suggests to make it a benefit for the wonderful Aliza.

Banditas is awesome, and I think Second Hand News is an all-female Fleetwood Mac tribute band.

As you can see by the flyer above, I could find no set donation but try to be generous to help out a woman that has given much to the Boston scene.

THUR 11/17

10pm
Alash
at Lily Pad, 1353 Cambridge St, Cambridge (Inman Sq)
$10

If you saw the film "Genghis Blues", you've got an idea about the strange and amazing phenomena of Tuvan throat singing. Alash is a quartet that also incorporate Western influences into their music including some guitar and accordion.

WED 11/16: Film, Talk, Trivia, Rock

I tried to whittle the list down, because it is just Wednesday. There are a couple more options on the calendar...

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WED 11/16

7pm to 9pm
"Australian Short Films Today"
at Room 120, Bldg 6, 182 Memorial Drive (Rear), Cambridge (MIT campus)
FREE

Someone might give this a try if you have Australian friends or just enjoy Aussies in general.

There should be a mix of live action and animation among the recent cream of the crop, and an Australian will be there to introduce the shorts.

WED 11/16

7pm
Melanie Dunea w/ Barbara Lynch & Lydia Shire, "My Last Supper: The Next Course - 50 More Great Chefs and Their Final Meals ": Discussion
at Harvard Book Store, 1256 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
FREE

I know people like to talk about food and listen to people talking about food. The perfect final meal is a tough question, and it's interesting to hear the answers of people who think about food all the time.

Barbara Lynch and Lydia Shire are two of the finest chefs in town who will probably speak candidly.

WED 11/16

7pm
Science in the News: "30 Years with AIDS: Where it Came From and Why It's Still With Us"
at Armenise Ampitheatre, 200 Longwood Ave, Boston (Harvard Medical School / Longwood)
FREE

In the last Science in the News seminar of the season, a trio of Harvard Medical grad students will discuss the virus in general and the challenges in fighting it.

Without blaming these folks, I'd like someone to ask why would any pharmaceutical company want to research a vaccine when they can sell a constant bevy of drugs to keep people alive?

Registration is recommended.

WED 11/16 (and THUR 11/17)

7:15pm, 9pm
"Steve Jobs: The Lost Interview"
at Kendall Square Cinema, One Kendall Square, Cambridge
$10

Isn't it interesting how this 'lost interview' was 'found' around the time of the subject's death?

In 1995, Jobs gave a 70-minute interview to be used in a PBS show "Triumph of the Nerds". It has been not shown in its entirety until now.

WED 11/16

7:30pm
"All Glory to the Hypnoquiz": All Futurama Trivia
at Phoenix Landing, 512 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$5 per player

The majority of hardcore "Futurama" fans will probably compete not for the cash prize but for the glory of being the top group of fanboys & fangirls.

(I wonder if some will be torn between this and the Steve Jobs screening?)

WED 11/16 (thru SAT 11/20)

7:30pm
International Pop Overthrow - Boston 2011
at Precinct, 70 Union Sq, Somerville (Union Sq)
$10

Tonight's Schedule:

11:15pm -- The Buckners
10:30pm -- Young Tremors
9:45pm -- Eddie Japan
9pm -- Peter Buzzelle
8:15pm -- Corin Ashley
7:30pm -- Dan HL

While the title may remind some of the great album by Chicago power-poppers Material Issue, the whole endeavor is not really a homage to them. Although it could be as thousands of kindred spirits around the country 'rock out with their pop out' under the umbrella of the International Pop Overthrow.

Whether it's jangly, fuzzy, punky, rootsy, and/or whatever else as long as making catchy songs under the big tent of classic pop with the posts created by The Beatles, Beach Boys, Byrds, etc.

I think tonight's line-up is my favorite, but pick a night that has a band that you already like (or a band that you've wanted to see) and enjoy a bunch of shorter sets to keep things humming along.

WED 11/16

The Bynars (10:25pm), The Front Bottoms (9:25pm), Eldridge Rodriguez (8:30pm)
at TT the Bear's Place, 10 Brookline St, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$8

When crunchy guitars meet old-school synth, it should sound like The Bynars who kick ass. Eldridge Rodriguez might be best known as frontman of The Beatings; his solo stuff isn't as noisy but delivers some great tunes.

I get the feeling that acoustic guitar & drum duo The Front Bottoms might have assisted epiphanies in scores of youths from here to their native New Jersey. As a non-youth, they've got some catchy stuff.

WED 11/16

9pm to 11pm
StoryLiars: "Fight or Flight"
at Milky Way Lounge/Bella Luna, 284 Amory St, Jamaica Plain (The Brewery Complex)
FREE

Feat: Evan Kenney, Chris Braiotta, Brendan T. Crowley, Noel Fisher, Michael Caniff, Patrick Barrett, Harry Gordon, Matt D, Dan Boulger, MC Yung Homofobe

Hosted by: Rob Crean, Walter Cornelius

Every month or so, a group of funny people and/or good storytellers get together under different themes. However this is "StoryLiars", so one of the presenters is lying. I'm sure a mediocre prize is waiting for the audience member(s) that can pick out the false story.

As for more conventional comedy, Matt D and Dan Boulger will perform some stand-up that probably won't be based on "Fight or Flight". I believe MC Yung Homofobe is an alter ego of one of the storytellers.

WED 11/16

9:30pm
Aloud, Rick Berlin w/ The Nickel & Dime Band, Tad & Kate
at O'Brien's, 3 Harvard St, Allston
$10 / 18+

If you wait much longer, you're going to completely miss Aloud's Midweek November residency. Since there won't be a show before Thanksgiving, one gig remains after tonight.

Sometimes 6 bands may strike your fancy, and sometimes 3 bands are what the doctor ordered. If there were a rock doctor giving prescriptions, it might include a big dose of Aloud who excel at big, beautiful tunes that sound familiar yet fresh.

The Boston/JP musical treasure that is Rick Berlin is expanding tonight as the Nickel and Dime Band occasionally backs him up. Sidewalk Driver is contracting as Tad & Kate will take things down a notch but only a very slight notch.

If you get there early enough, there could be some free pizza waiting for you...

TUES 11/15: Science, Debate, Film, Music

Pretty good variety for a Tuesday...

(Whoops, I forgot to hit 'publish'...)

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TUES 11/15

6pm to 7:30pm
Life in the Universe, Part 3: "Why Mars Matters"
at MIT Museum, 265 Mass Ave, Cambridge (near Central Sq)
FREE

Feat: Klaus Biemann, Samuel Kounaves, Zara Mirmalek

Did our planetary neighbor ever host living organisms? Or does it currently? The panelists have spent decades studying Mars, and they'll give you a good idea what the results means to Earthlings.

"Tea and coffee served."

TUES 11/15

6:30pm to 8:30pm
The Great Debate: "Israeli-Palestinian Peace: Who Stands in the Way?"
at Tsai Performance Center, 685 Comm Ave, Boston (BU campus)
FREE

While 29 years seems like a long time to hold debates, but that's rather new compared to the nearly 200 years of the English university debates that is the inspiration for this series.

Unlike the real Israel-Palestine debate, one point of view will be declared the winner by the audience.

TUES 11/15

7pm
PechaKucha Boston
at Club Oberon, 2 Arrow St, Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
FREE

Mainly design-oriented people will get up and share for 20 seconds. No one gets to blather on and on, and they say anyone can actually present. Could be quite interesting...

TUES 11/15

7:30pm
"The Artist": Screening and Q&A
at Coolidge Corner Theatre, 290 Harvard St, Brookline
FREE w/ PDF Flyer

It must take balls (and a strong artistic vision) to make a silent film in 2011 about a silent film actor on the verge of being squeezed out by the "talkie".

Yes, this is a silent film -- in black and white with the traditional film size. It was one of the 'hits' of Cannes, and the lead won the Best Actor award.

Director Michel Hazanavicius will be in attendance for a post-screening Q&A.

"Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis and is NOT guaranteed."

TUES 11/15

9pm
Joe Lally, Grass Is Green, Helen Money
at Great Scott, 1222 Comm Ave, Allston
$10 / 18+

When Joe Lally came through town a couple years ago, I paraphrased a "Simpsons" joke: "Do like Fugazi? 'cause we've got one!"

My apologies to Joe Lally but it's impossible to discuss the Fugazi bassist's current project without mentioning the former band. Lally's distinctive style is evident in the new stuff which should appeal to fans in its own way.

The touring band includes a drummer and a cellist who will play her own set of loud, layered music as Helen Money. I hear some Fugazi influence in the noisy, angular sound of Grass Is Green, so the evening should chug along into a collectively complementary experience.

TUES 11/15

10:30pm
Red Heroine, Sarah Lee
at Plough & Stars, 912 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
FREE-ish

The band formerly known as Mr Sister has changed their name to Red Heroine and are playing every Tuesday in November. As far as I can tell, Amelia Emmet inimitable elastic moan is still as fantastic as before.

On the Facebook page for the residency, the guest band is listed as "Sarah Lee" so I'm assuming it might be Sarah Lee Guthrie who performed locally last night...

MON 11/14: Big Quiz Thing

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

Do you know 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.

There are audio and video questions in categories like "A Quick Tour Through TV Game Show History", "Public Zoo", and “Never Break the Musical Chain”. The hosts are witty too.

Even a wrong answer has a chance for points if it's funny enough.

I may not be able make it on Monday night, so I can't definitely join a team.

If you don't win the grand prize in the 3-way finale, your team could go home with some books, DVD's, gift card and/or tickets to "The Donkey Show".

There is a bar as well even if it isn't a pub.

There is more Monday cheapness on the calendar.

SUN 11/13: Sunday Night Off-Topic Video

I saw this video about a month ago, and it's still scary to watch this Wall Street trader candidly talking about his hope the economy will get worse.



Crazy and disturbing to me, but at least someone was willing to tell the uncomfortable truth.

SAT 11/12: Food, Country, Rock, Americana, Surf

If you didn't check out the Allston Open Studios or the Anarchist Bookfair today, there's always tomorrow.

I tried to see MIThenge in the spring, and it was somewhat disappointing. The time was right but the clouds/sky were not. It might be seen this weekend around 4:20pm.

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SAT 11/12

7pm
Cooking Demo w/ Marissa Guiggiana and Jamie Bissonnette
at Trident Booksellers & Cafe, 338 Newbury St, Boston (Back Bay)
FREE

Chef Jamie of Toro and Coppa did a similar presentation in May, and I had 2 cups of amazing tripe & beef tongue stew. Maybe this time he'll do the pig ear terrine that was also featured in the cookbook, "Primal Cuts: Cooking with America’s Best Butchers" compiled by Marissa Guiggiana.

SAT 11/12

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

Feat: Susan Cattaneo, Highway Ghosts, Glenn Yoder

Aw, who doesn't love Willie?

The red-headed stranger may be one of the few musical icons that appeals to hipsters and their grandparents. It's well-deserved, because he's written some of the best songs in country/pop music like "Crazy" & "Always On My Mind".

The performers will play some of their favorite songs by America's -- the world's -- favorite unabashed, septuagenarian stoner as well as some of their own.

SAT 11/12

9pm
Yale MA, Secret Music, Candy Hearts, Awful Man
at O'Brien's, 3 Harvard St, Allston
$9 / 21+

Yeah, baby, this is some wicked punchy goodness bookended by the meaty hooks of Yale MA and the fast 'n loud crunch of Awful Man. It might be love at first verse with Candy Hearts and their girl-group sweetness of the vocals over the speedy grind. Secret Music adds some palate-cleansing new wave to the party.

SAT 11/12

Eddie Japan (9pm), Late Cambrian (10pm), The Lights Out (11pm), The Blackboard Nails (Midnight)
at Radio, 379 Somerville Ave, Somerville (Union Sq)
$5 / 21+

Holy crap, this would've been a monstrous gig at next week's International Pop Overthrow next week down the street.

I love the romantic, loungey powerpop of Eddie Japan. I had to figure out when the Late Cambrian period was, and they didn't have fuzzed-out guitars over sweet melodies. There are few bands that can execute really tight guitar-heavy pop-rock and tickle your classic-rock bone like The Lights Out without going over the top into cheese-land. By the tight musicianship of The Blackboard Nails, I assume they're Berklee kids who may have more than just chops.

SAT 11/12

9pm
Truth & Salvage Co, Musikanto, Coyote Kolb
at Brighton Music Hall, 158 Brighton Ave, Allston
$10 / 18+

California's Truth & Salvage Co headlines a night of earthy, rocking Americana that includes folk-rock singer-songwriter Musikanto from Chicago and our own Coyote Kolb who gets deep, down, 'n bluesy.

If really want to ensure the $10 advance price: get there before the doors open at 8pm, buy your tix, and hang out at one of the fine drinking establishments in the area.

SAT 11/12

10pm
Beware the Dangers of a Ghost Scorpion, The Electric Heaters
at Atwoods Tavern, 877 Cambridge St, Cambridge (near Inman & Kendall Sq)
$5 / 21+

Where Matt Heaton & The Electric Heaters are a more traditional surf trio (with an extra bit of twang), Beware the Dangers of a Ghost Scorpion are a band of masked marauders who enjoy nothing more than take it up a couple notches and get a little creepy while they're at it.

Pre-Saturday Post

Until I get myself together, take a look at the calendar.

FRI 11/11: This Day Goes to 11

Happy Veterans Day! Some would like this to also be Nigel Tufnel Day, because it goes to 11 better than any day in the past 100 years.

The next 11/11/11 will be much cooler because there's an additional 1 in the year. Still, these unusual dates are numerological fun. Have some...

Quite a few movie and college things on the list today. So it goes.

Hooray to Radio that has their own sign! I didn't take a picture, but the newest rock club in town can now be found by looking for their name. There's a gig I like tonight listed below.

Thanks to Boston Events Insider, I saw that this is one of the fee-free weekends at national parks. The two closest locations are Adams National Historical Park in Quincy and Cape Cod National Seashore. If you ever wanted to visit the home of Presidents without paying $5, it's a good time between now and Sunday.

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FRI 11/11

5pm to 8pm
Second Fridays
at MIT Museum, 265 Mass Ave, Cambridge (near Central Sq)
FREE

Honestly, there are lots of cool stuff at the MIT Museum that's worth the price of admission, but it's even better when you can get in for free -- like every 2nd Friday of the month.

If you really want to see the best exhibit in the building, go upstairs and spend some time with the kinetic sculptures of Arthur Ganson. They look cool and whimsical, and they incorporate some deeper ideas.

FRI 11/11

7pm to 8:30pm
"Education Under Fire": Screening & Discussion
at Kirsch Auditorium, Stata Center, 32 Vassar St, Cambridge (MIT campus)
FREE

Speakers: Josh Rubenstein, Fatemeh Haghighatjoo, David Hoffman, Rainn Wilson

They say, "You are still welcome to attend if you miss the RSVP deadline; however, accommodations may be more difficult."

Some people may want to watch a film about the persecution of the Bahai in Iran, because Rainn Wilson is going to be on the panel. You can't RSVP anymore, but you're still welcome to try. When Rainn has tweeted and FB'ed it, there could be a crowd.

Or perhaps there's an RSVP for tomorrow's Wheelock Family Theatre screening (7pm).

FRI 11/11

7pm
"Winnebago Man": An Evening with Ben Steinbauer
at Room 101, College of Communication, 640 Comm Ave, Boston (BU campus)
FREE

If you haven't seen the YouTube video, you should start there. You might want to learn more about this guy trying to make an RV infomercial and gave us a profane blooper reel.

Ben Steinbauer made a movie about his search for the man in the Winnebago, and he'll be at the screening.

FRI 11/11

7pm
Otto Piene: Film/Video Screening
at Bartos Theater, Wiesner Bldg, 20 Ames St, Cambridge (MIT campus)
FREE

Program:

"Olympia Regenbogen/Olympic Rainbow" (1972, 20 minutes)
"The Medium is the Medium (1969, 64 minutes)
"Lichtspur im Haus der Sonne" (1975, 43 minutes)

One of the interesting things about early experimental art is how the work transcends the limitations to make something beautiful. The program includes a film about rainbow arc above the closing ceremony of the '72 Munich Olympics, a WGBH program from 1969 on 6 artists including Piene, and video about a couple site-specific pieces in Hawaii.

FRI 11/11

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

Feat: Tawanda Gona, Shane McHugh, Mike Han, James Creelman, James Nixon, Niraj Shah, Sue Funke, Brian Moote, Joe Fernandez, Lillian DeVane

Hosted by Rob Crean

Like I said last week: This is one of those appealing weekly shows where you can laugh at the beginning of the weekend for a low cover, drink cheap beer, and still have time to do something else. Or stay and dance with "The Pill" at no extra cost.

Unlike last week, I saw a 2-for-1 coupon in the Dig (page 37). If you have a friend -- or someone who will go to Great Scott with you -- you can get in for basically $2.50.

There is a strong chance you'll be entertained at mere pennies per laugh.

FRI 11/11

Varsity Drag (11:45pm), Apple Betty (11pm), My Own Worst Enemy (10pm), The Vivs (9pm)
at Precinct, 70 Union Sq, Somerville (Union Sq)
$10-ish

For those who love Boston rock of the 90's, this is one of those gigs with some of those sounds that still feels modern. Varsity Drag is helmed by Ben Deily who was also the co-main Lemonhead for the first 3 albums, and I really dig the new band. The Vivs are the modern take of 90's indie-rock band Edith who (after a break) are making spanking, zesty rock with a winning pop formula. Funnily, My Own Worst Enemy is celebrating their CD release, and they're the band that excites me the least even though there's nothing wrong with them. It's been a while since we've had a chance to see Apple Betty, and they simply rock out with punchy cheer.

FRI 11/11

9pm
Lovewhip, Streight Angular, SPF 5000, Mitten
at Radio, 379 Somerville Ave, Somerville (Union Sq)
$5 / 21+

10pm
"The Pill" w/ Dirty Bombs
at Great Scott, 1222 Comm Ave, Allston
$5 / 21+

These are two parties where I would actually dance.

Lovewhip always brings a funky dance party wherever they play. Electro duo SPF 5000have got hooks to keep on the dancefloor, and I defy you to dislike the synthy-pop goodness of Mitten. Streight Angular even have the right attitude and groove for an indie-rock thang. This little spot is going to be jumping.

I like that the Dirty Bombs are planning to hit the stage at 11:11:11pm. These guys have gathered together from other bands that received buzz, and they blend into something that rocks with a lot of synth. I ran into a Dirty Bomb recently and he suggested that his important band playing at this time and date could be an earth-shattering significance. Okay, if you say so. The Pill DJ's will pump up the Brit-pop and dance-rock before and after.

FRI 11/11

10pm
"Bootleggers' Prohibition Bash"
at Milky Way Lounge / Bella Luna, 284 Amory St, Jamaica Plain (The Brewery Complex)
$10 / 21+

Feat: The Mood Swings Orchestra

When the Milky Way/Bella Luna is celebrating its 18th anniversary with a Roaring Twenties/Prohibition theme party, people are going to show up in appropriate attire.

There's a theme menu and special cocktails, and a 17-piece all-female big band is going to play swinging tunes of the era.

So if you've got a flapper's outfit in the closet, then go have a razzmatazz. It'll be the cat's pajamas.