Reflections from a Rolling Stone
Profile on IU alumnus and Rolling Stone magazine contributing editor Anthony DeCurtis.
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Profile on IU alumnus and Rolling Stone magazine contributing editor Anthony DeCurtis.
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>I have a few memories in my life that define pure, unadulterated happiness. As expected, most are from my childhood. These chunks of perfection are not defining moments but people, places and experiences.My memory of Michael Jackson is one of them.My musical love affair began at the age of five. I listened constantly to his songs and watched his videos, and don’t even get me started on my imitations of those dance moves.When I found out I was moving to America, I promptly requested that my mom purchase a cassette of his. To me, Michael was America. He could have been the president for all I knew. Interestingly enough, his 1992 live concert in my hometown of Bucharest was legendary because of its special effects and the crowd’s wild hysteria.He was the first of many artists who made me fall in love with music. Everyone knows you never forget your first love, and pop music was mine. I’ve since had other loves, but nothing’s as pure in my heart as pop. Michael set the standard, hence his title as the King of Pop. Nowadays, a mainstream musician is lucky to have one to two hits in a lifetime. With Michael, nearly every song on his albums is a golden nugget. Since the late 1960s, his music would define decades while simultaneously becoming timeless.His lavish and intricate videos, which seemed more like short films, kicked MTV’s significance a notch up. The day he died, the now mostly irrelevant channel streamed his videos, as did BET and I’m sure many others.When the Michael allegations and backlash commenced, I couldn’t be a part of it. I don’t think we’ll ever know whether or not any of it was true. But I know his mistakes could never change my love for his music. As expected, I’ve grown very cynical and jaded since I was five. But not towards him. I always want to remember my childhood, which is obviously somewhat synonymous with MJ. This goes with millions of people in spanned generations.This is a way to remember a much simpler time, and my innocence. And for that I will forever be grateful to the boy from Gary.
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>At Bonnaroo, music is your main dish served with a hearty side of weed and any other supplement your heart desires. Although the festival is rooted in jam bands, drugs and camping, you don’t have to like any of those to enjoy the weekend. But it does help.In its eighth year, Bonnaroo keeps expanding from its neo-hippie core. I went from catching ebony queen Erykah Badu to the chronic’s Snoop Dogg followed by alternative country starlet Neko Case. It’s truly a place to see living legends. I’m convinced “The Boss,” Bruce Springsteen, is a robot after his 3 1/2-hour set, and I will never forget the moment an exuberant young blonde wearing an “I love NJ” shirt joined him during “Dancing In The Dark.”David Byrne’s roaring performance included new collaborations from his work with Brian Eno as well as Talking Heads tunes such as “Life during Wartime” and “Once in a Lifetime.” The scene was like a modern “Stop Making Sense.”Elvis Costello began his set with a few acoustic performances, but he eventually said it was time for some rock ’n’ roll. The infallible singer-songwriter did a fantastic cover of The Velvet Underground’s “Femme Fatale” as well as his new songs and original staples such as “Everyday I Write the Book” and “(What’s So Funny ’Bout) Peace Love and Understanding?”Byrne and Costello both served as mentors for the younger acts at Bonnaroo, as Byrne curated his own stage and performed along with Dirty Projectors. Costello joined Jenny Lewis during “Carpetbaggers,” and she exuberantly sang alongside during his set, which also included collaborations from Jim Luaderdale and Allen Toussaint.Bonnaroo was also for witnessing newer acts that leapt from buzzworthy to mainstay. After seeing Grizzly Bear on June 9 at the Buskirk-Chumley, I had to hear them again. Other bands like TV On The Radio, Animal Collective and Phoenix further heightened their prominence as the die-hard fans piled to be closer to them.Two representatives from local Bloomington label Jagjaguwar truly shined as well, and I knew I had to see them because I missed seeing them in town. Bon Iver’s set was particularly moving as Justin Vernon transformed his painfully melancholy sound into something most listeners would have never expected: loud and rocking. Okkervil River’s Will Sheff proved to be one of the most gracious and energetic front men around, feeding off the audience and his band members while preserving the clarity of his music.As enthralling as it was to be a part of something so large-scale, Bonnaroo just made me all the more happy to be in Bloomington. I counted more than 10 bands at the festival that performed in town since I arrived in fall 2006. I saw many of these acts before they “made it big” for less than $20 at the most intimate of local venues.That’s not to say that the four-day festival won’t hold a special place in my heart – even if I wouldn’t mind never seeing anything tie-dye again.
Little 500 weekend can be a little overwhelming for everyone, but never fear – WEEKEND’s got your back. Here is a list of the essential events, from races to rappers and everything else in between.
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>Music festivals aren’t getting any cheaper this summer, so every concertgoer needs to prioritize. Below are some of the closest and most popular fests around, with must-see performers and prices included.1. Summer CampWHEN: May 22 to 24WHERE: Chillicothe, Ill.COST: Three-day advance tickets $1405 must-see acts: Willie Nelson, Method Man and Redman, Les Claypool, Future Rock and Los Lobos 2. PitchforkWHEN: July 17 to 19WHERE: Chicago’s Union ParkCOST: Three-day tickets $755 must-see acts: Flaming Lips, Built to Spill, The Very Best, Women and The Jesus Lizard 3. LollapaloozaWHEN: Aug. 7 to 9WHERE: Grant Park, ChicagoCOST: $190 three-day pass5 must-see acts: Beastie Boys, Lou Reed, Snoop Dogg, Lykke Li and Ben Folds4. RothburyWHEN: July 2 to 5WHERE: Rothbury, Mich.COST: Advance weekend pass $252.505 must-see acts: Bob Dylan and His Band, MSTRKRFT, Broken Social Scene, G. Love &Special Sauce and Railroad Earth 5. BonnarooWHEN: June 11 to 14WHERE: Manchester, Tenn.COST: $224.50 plus fees5 must-see acts: Bruce Springsteen and The E Street Band, David Byrne, Al Green, Public Enemy and Elvis Costello
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>More than 10,000 Moldovan youths protested Tuesday against their newly-elected, communist government, which they believed tampered with the election. What fueled this fire? A secret meeting held by twenty-something students wearing berets and smoking clove cigarettes?Sorry, those days are over.Twitter just killed the image of a poetic radical. You can now organize a protest while in your boxers. Rebellious attire is optional.The networking site now has a surprisingly useful purpose beyond declaring what you had for breakfast or what you thought of this week’s episode of “Lost.”Sure, Facebook and text messages were also revolutionary catalysts for the Moldovans.But the leaders of this attempted revolt created a searchable tag (#pman) to access information and details. The government was ruffled up, and the youth eventually gained full control within a day.Authorities then cut off Internet access in the capital of Chisinau. Out of nowhere.Big Brother much, President Voronin?While this protest might not have ended in any tangible, positive results for the Moldovan youth, it is certainly a way for them to declare their presence and persistence.Maybe using Twitter isn’t as poetic as berets and clove cigarettes, but when the United States gets a targeted age group to vote via P. Diddy and free Starbucks, the acts of these Moldovans is enormous.The Internet was also a tool for protests in the Ukraine in 2004 and Belarus in 2006. What was the most relevant thing about Twitter before? Finding the real Shaq or getting instant news about celebrity breakups?It was only a few years ago when the worst mode of severing ties was via e-mail, text message or even a Post-it note.In a new era of Twitterati, Myspace is way creepy and cancelling a Facebook relationship is passe.Everyone’s favorite celebrity Lindsay Lohan broke up with “girlfriend” Sam Ronson by tweeting.“Being cheated on does wonders to you. I’m doing this publicly because u&ur friends call People mag,” Lohan wrote this past weekend.As much as I love LiLo, observing attempts to change a government is slightly more fascinating.The Twitter site for the activists is still going strong, and comments range from “Communists take ur dirty hands out of our country! Don’t cheat! Don’t block sites and communications! Don’t block path to our freedom!” to “I still can’t believe there are thousands of people coordinating a revolution on Twitter right now. Amazing.”And I can’t help but agree with the latter.Moldovan citizens truly deserve something good. Their cultural and geographic identity has been passed around like a redheaded stepchild that nobody wants to deal with, but everyone will boss around. Being on the edge of or below the poverty line is the norm.And as a native Romanian, I can’t help but empathize with my neighboring country.Whether it’s Twitter or carrier pigeons or smoke signals, change is still change.So I must say: whatever works.
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>Dropping out of IU might have been the best thing that ever happened to Christian Lander. Shortly after the 30-year-old Canadian native left the Communication and Culture Ph.D. program, he created a blog that became a cult sensation – Stuff White People Like. This Sunday, Lander will give a free lecture at the Indiana Memorial Union Whittenberger Auditorium. It will be followed by a question-and-answer session and book signing.The site and subsequent eponymous book is a mirror to Lander’s own interests, although it is written as a guide to dealing with liberal-leaning, upper-middle-class white folk dedicated to emphasizing their individuality. Topics vary from Asian fusion food to political prisoners to being offended. Lander calls out his own race in describing “the unique taste of millions.”The book became a New York Times bestseller, and Lander has appeared as a guest on NPR’s “Talk of the Nation” and “Late Night with Conan O’Brien.”
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>How does a band from Johannesburg, South Africa end up in Bloomington? And not just any South African band, but one that graced the cover of The Fader magazine in March 2008, played Austin’s South By Southwest, and gained the attention of basically anyone they met. As it turns out, the reason for Blk Jks’ current residence is quite simple: Secretly Canadian, a local independent record label. After a string of unsuccessful courtships from various other labels, the band signed to one founded by four IU alumni. While in town, Blk Jks recorded their first full-length album at Russian Recording and are now preparing for an international tour. But before the boys from Joburg head out to various parts of the United States. and Europe, they will play a free show at Jake’s Nightclub this Monday. One might think that the pairing of Blk Jks with Bloomington is odd, but the partnership came about quite naturally. In fact, nearly everything about the band is a natural happening – from its sound and creative process to its record deal and recording session. The Sound Ten years have passed since the first inception of Blk Jks, and five since its current lineup. Guitarist Mpumi Mcata said it’s been a long time in coming for their debut album. “I think it’s going to surprise a lot of people that we know, because it’s beginning to surprise me ... I still don’t know what it is,” he said. “I hope somebody out there can figure it out.” Despite Blk Jks’ firmly planted roots in their national identity, many critics are prone to place the South Africans into an easy, westernized context. “I feel like it is – actually I know it’s – traditional African music,” drummer Tshepang Ramoba said. IU alumnus and Russian Recording owner and chief engineer Mike Bridavsky said the group’s fusion of various elements is what makes them stand out. “What is most interesting about their music is the African ‘feel’ that inevitably comes through all of their songs,” he said. Bridavsky mostly attributes this feel to the drums and bass. “Tshepang’s style incorporates a lot of jazz technique as well as complicated ‘African-style’ poly-rhythms and syncopation, as does Molefi’s bass playing.” ‘Four cultures meeting in one room’ Lead vocalist and guitarist Linda Buthelezi describes the band as “four cultures meeting in one room.” Each member comes from a different culture in South Africa: Xhosa, Zulu, Tswana and Pedi. And each member also has his own taste, with influences ranging from church music to South African pop funk. For the band, these differences don’t interfere, but contribute to forming a cohesive effort. “I guess that’s what makes this band what it is, because we give each other space to the creativity of the band,” bassist Molefi Makananise said. The distinct nuances of each member become visible during a Blk Jks performance. Mcata is the organizer, often communicating with everyone else to keep things going right. Makananise is soft-spoken and calm, often closing his eyes and grooving in his own world. Ramoba is the liveliest of the bunch, constantly smiling and laughing while pounding his drumsticks. Buthelezi, the quietest member despite his role as lead vocalist, lets the music speak for itself. “Why did we decide to form this band?” Makananise asked his mates after the question was posed to all of them. Mcata said it just happened – playing music was another thing to do in addition to watching TV or playing sports. He said one minute you’re playing for people, and the next you’re in a band. Makananise met Mcata and Buthelezi, who were childhood friends, the day before their first live show. He met the two after they all rehearsed together during a band photo shoot. The next day, they drove ten hours to play their debut show – at a prison. “It’s called ‘going with the flow,’” Mcata said. The Bloomington Connection After a few years of mainly self-released efforts, it took an independent label in Bloomington to find the right support for their first full-length album. The band was turned off by contract offers and wanted to find a label who was foremost interested in their sound. It was love at first listen for Secretly Canadian project manager Kevin Duneman. He soon e-mailed the band and received a response from their manager, Knox Robinson. “We just started talking about the music, music in general. We definitely developed a quick and deep relationship on that level,” Duneman said. “We’ve always been entirely transparent with each other – no tricks, no gimmicks.” The band solidified that mentality when they decided to record their album in Bloomington, a town they knew nothing about. When the group finished recording in early February, they experienced their first taste of fun at FARMbloomington’s bi-weekly funk and soul event, Soul in the Hole. They also witnessed a rowdy and sweaty basement show and played one of their own this past Saturday. Blk Jks have never been the kind of guys to plan things out very far in advance; they just go with what feels right at the moment. “I can’t get excited about something that will happen in a month,” Ramoba said about their upcoming tour. “I’ll be excited when I’m on stage, because that’s what I love.” And there’s one thing that will be certain about Monday night, as Mcata put it best. “It’s going to get noisy.”
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>Spin Magazine asked, “Aretha who?” after seeing Sharon Jones perform, and Jones boldly referred to Amy Winehouse as “whats-her-name” in a New York Times article. This Saturday, Jones and her band, the Dap-Kings, will perform at Jake’s Nightclub.Booking the singer in Bloomington was a no-brainer for Dan Coleman, the entertainment manager at Jake’s.“Nobody can do it better (than Jones), except maybe Prince, who I’ve also seen live,” he said. Born in James Brown’s hometown of Augusta, Ga., Jones began her singing career at church performances. She’s served as a backup singer numerous times in the past, and was previously told she wasn’t good enough to perform on her own. She does receive a little help from her friends, the Dap-Kings. These artists are part of Brooklyn-based indie label Daptone Records. Daptone is dedicated to producing a vintage sound, specifically soul, funk, gospel and Afrobeat.When Amy Winehouse wanted to create that retro feel in her own music, she and artist Mark Ronson recruited the Dap-Kings. They recorded with her on the album “Back to Black,” and later toured with the singer.Accompanying Jones and the band will be Indianapolis’ Blackberry Jam.Founder, bassist and musical director of the band Ron “Poncho” Hedrick said the band’s home base was a “funk mecca” in the ’60s and ’70s and said he’s confident in its current potential.“We’re excited to bring the funk back,” he said.Hedrick also said the genre is a collective one, ranging from the big band style of Jones and the Dap-Kings to the raw nature of Rage Against the Machine.“We use funk as an excuse to do whatever we want,” Hedrick said.For soul enthusiasts, the night won’t stop at Jake’s.FARMbloomington will provide a soul food buffet starting at 11 p.m. as its downstairs Root Cellar hosts an after party. The event is a special spin on the biweekly staple “Soul in the Hole” featuring local disc jockeys that spin funk and soul tunes.Farm’s event manager Tracey Walker said the buffet is “southern cooking at its finest,” with products from many local growers. Food such as chicken gumbo, pulled pork and apple cobbler will be served throughout the night.Sharon Jones and the Dap-Kings’ most recent album, “100 Days, 100 Nights,” was the top seller this past week for Landlocked Music. The local record store is currently holding a promotional sale for all patrons who purchase their ticket for Saturday’s show.Sharon Jones and the Dap-Kings, Blackberry Jam When: 8 p.m. Saturday Where: Jake’s Nightclub & Bar, 419. N. Walnut St.More info: The cost is $20. Tickets are available at Landlocked Music, Tracks, Jake’s and www.ticketmaster.com. Want to win two free tickets to the Sharon Jones show? Find out how at www.idsnews.com/blogs/livebuzz.Sharon Jones’ after party: Soul in the Hole with DJs Junebug, Jonny Yuma White Light White Heath, and other special guests.When: 11 p.m. to 3 a.m. SaturdayWhere: The Root Cellar at FARMbloomingtonMore info: The cost is $3, but the party is free with a Sharon Jones ticket. There will also be a Soul Food buffet for $15.
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>When IU alumnus Jon Coombs first started interning at local independent music label Secretly Canadian, he came with the desire to become a part of the music industry. Just a month before he graduated last May, he asked if the label happened to be hiring.He hardly thought he’d get a job, but wanted the interview experience, he said.Coombs is now Project Manager/Label Assistant for the Secretly Canadian family.Six Secretly Canadian employees – from co-owner Ben Swanson to Coombs to senior publicist Lucy Robinson – will be part of a panel discussion tonight at the Fine Arts Building.The event is part of a series titled Art Works: Career Perspectives from Creative Professionals. Sara Pennington-Busick, IU Career Development Center’s associate director of employer relations, founded the series because she said she believed there was “a lack of professionally focused events that focused on creative sectors.”Past speakers included NPR broadcasters, violinists and individuals from Broadway shows.Along with Wes Erwin, senior assistant director at the Career Development Center, Pennington-Busick has a specific goal for tonight’s event.“The whole purpose was not only to expose people to the music industry, but also to allow people to understand career paths,” she said.Secretly Canadian was formed in 1996 by four IU alumni: brothers Chris and Ben Swanson, Jonathan Cargill and Eric Weddle. The founders believed in the quality of local bands, many of whom they saw at basement shows.The rosters of Secretly Canadian and affiliated labels Jagjaguwar and Dead Oceans currently consist of local acts such as The Impossible Shapes, national performers such as Dirty Projectors and various international performers including Swedish singer Jens Lekman.Ben Swanson noted his love for Bloomington, saying living in a smaller town can allow easier accessibility into the scene.He stressed the importance of not only being in tune with local and regional music, but staying aware of what’s going on nationally and internationally.Although it’s common advice, landing a good internship can be highly beneficial to making it in the music industry, Coombs said.
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>These days, it’s nearly impossible to talk about Kimya Dawson without mentioning “Juno.” The singer-songwriter garnered mainstream acclaim since her contribution to the film’s soundtrack. She is on nearly half of the album, either through her solo work or with The Moldy Peaches and Antsy Pants. The romantic comedy starring Ellen Page and Michael Cera won the 2007 Oscar for Best Original Screenplay.Just three years ago, Dawson played a house show with her friend Matt Tobey in Bloomington. Dawson and Tobey, also know as Matty Pop Chart, will perform with Matt’s sister, Erin Tobey, at the Buskirk-Chumley Theater at 8 p.m. Sunday. Matt Tobey, a Bloomington resident who has played with Dawson before and after “Juno,” said their shows are still lighthearted despite the recent shift to bigger venues and more fans. The performer and her close friends seem to be unaffected by her recent stardom.“She hasn’t really changed,” Tobey said. “She’s still really awesome but has a hard time dealing with it.” He explained that her former fan base consisted of a more close-knit following, compared to the recent expansion.This isn’t to say Dawson doesn’t appreciate her new fans, but that she isn’t so keen about being treated with an elevated status.“We’re equal; we’re building everyday connections and being made connected,” she said in a January IDS WEEKEND magazine article. According to Dawson’s official Web site, she started recording on a cassette four-track. Her songs reflect a personal, story-telling format. Besides her solo work, she’s contributed to the duos The Moldy Peaches with her friend Adam Green and Antsy Pants with her husband Angelo Spencer. She’s additionally worked with artists such as Ben Kweller and Third Eye Blind, among others.Sally Meyer Rawlins, Sunrise Box Office manager, said the ticket sales for Sunday’s show are doing well. The venue can accommodate 565 seats.Kimya Dawson, Matty Pop Chart, Erin TobeyWhen: 8 p.m. SundayWhere: Buskirk-Chumley TheaterMore info: Tickets are general admission and cost $15. They are currently on sale at the Sunrise Box Office or at www.bloomingtonarts.info.
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>Election Night Party canceledBloomington is no exception to the unpredictable nature of this omnipresent, historical election. And in such a musically-inclined community, there’s no surprise that there are many concerts on and around Election Day. Instead of dwelling on the possible shortcomings, Bloomington has taken the bull by the horns in providing all-ages and 21 and older events for its audiences.Perhaps no other event would have been as cohesive as the politically inclined performance of the New Jersey band Ted Leo and the Pharmacists and its Election Night Party at the Buskirk-Chumley Theater.But when Ted Leo’s tour mates Against Me! were involved in a car crash Oct. 22, much changed for the front man. Although no one was injured from the crash, Leo canceled the rest of his tour with the Pharmacists because of the personal exhaustion the accident caused.Those who purchased tickets are able to receive refunds at the Buskirk’s Sunrise Box Office, located at 114 E. Kirkwood Ave., from noon to 5 p.m. daily.According to an e-mail sent from Buskirk Executive Director Danielle McCelland, Leo is still required to play a show at the venue. Specific details have not yet been confirmed, however.“Ted Leo will, in fact, reschedule his Bloomington show, but we do not have an expected date at this time,” McCelland said in the e-mail.Now what? Other music events dominate Election DayAlthough no event stands out as politically cohesive as the Ted Leo Party, this doesn’t stop B-town from providing other music events on and around election night.In fact, it is giving Bloomington the chance to showcase otherwise overlooked local, national and international acts that IU alumnus Dan Coleman and senior Andy Goheen booked through Spirit of ’68 Promotions. From small events throughout the week to larger concerts such as Sharon Jones and the Dap Kings, Girl Talk and last year’s Little 500 Feist performance, Spirit of ’68 has been greatly involved in booking and promoting shows in Bloomington.Goheen expressed remorse toward the Ted Leo cancelation, but because no one was hurt, he also sees it as a shining light to showcase the other events in town.“Basically, it is a shame that Ted has personal problems that required his canceling of the show,” Goheen said. “However, I admit that it is not quite a tragedy for Bloomington that this show is not happening. There are so many shows happening in Bloomington recently, and there are other concerts happening the night of Nov. 4, but the most important thing that day is the election.”Election Night Rock ShowWhen: 8 p.m. TuesdayWhere: The Cinemat, 123 S. WalnutMore info: Bands include Either Orr, Chiemi Jones, husband&wife and Everybody. The cost is $4. See the Facebook event or www.myspace.com/cinemat.Events for your Election Night hangoversEverthus the Deadbeats (Muncie), And The Moneynotes (Scranton, Penn.), Ugly Stick (Columbus, Ohio)When: 9 p.m. WednesdayWhere: Jake’s Nightclub (21+) More info: See the Facebook event, www.spiritof68promotions.com, www.jakesnightclub.com. The cover is $4.Swedish songstress Frida HyvonenWhen: 8 p.m. WednesdayWhere: John Waldron Arts Center (all ages), 122 S. Walnut St.Cost: $5More info: See the Facebook event or www.spiritof68promotions.comThe cost is $5.
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>The best way to tell the story of Magnolia Electric Co. would be to formulate a musical family tree.The band, whose past, present and future is rooted in Bloomington, will kick off its fall tour tonight at the Buskirk-Chumley Theater.Magnolia’s front man Jason Molina became the first artist signed to local label Secretly Canadian, which was formed in 1996.“I can’t wait to finally experience the music in full, and I’m hoping to understand it better after watching Molina perform it,” sophomore Tara Johnson said.Under the artist name Songs: Ohia, Molina released an album called “Magnolia Electric Co.” in 2003. Shortly after, Molina recruited other musicians, and the band lineup was solidified.As a band, Magnolia Electric Co.’s first release was the 2005 album “Trials and Errors” on Secretly Canadian. Their 2007 box set, “Sojourner,” is currently sold out.Besides Molina, who currently lives in London, all members of Magnolia reside in Bloomington and are involved in numerous local music projects.Magnolia bassist Pete Schreiner, drummer Mark Rice and guitarist Jason Groth are the three members of the band Coke Dares. Schreiner is also in a solo project called Thousand Arrows. Rice is a member of The Impossible Shapes, which Groth also contributes to.Groth and trumpet/keyboard player Mikey Kapinus are in a duo called Indiana Beach, and the two are also in the band Whippoorwill.Since moving to London, Molina has played several solo shows, which means fewer Magnolia performances. According to Secretly Canadian, the band played about 91 shows in 2007.Schreiner said Bloomington shows are relatively rare, although all members stay involved with their own projects.“Everybody’s still playing music all the time,” he said.Following the fall tour, Magnolia will hit the studio with Steve Albini to record a new album, which is set to be released in 2009 on Secretly Canadian.Magnolia Electric Co., The Hollows, King’s Daughters and SonsWhen: 8 p.m. TodayWhere: Buskirk-Chumley TheatreMore info: The cost is $8. Want to win a free copy of Magnolia Electric Co.’s album "Fading Trails"? Go to www.idsnews.com/blogs/livebuzz.
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>Although karaoke is said to be a Japanese tradition that stemmed from bar life, the art has become refined in its own right in Bloomington.For the past decade or so, bars such as Bear’s Place and Office Lounge have accumulated the standard karaoke classics for locals and students alike.Emcee Jason Groth has entertained guests of all kinds at the Bluebird Nightclub stage for three years.This week, Jake’s Nightclub incorporated two live band karaoke sets. Every Tuesday, timely and timeless country hits will be performed. Every other Wednesday, Rock ’N’ Roll Karaoke will bring back jams from the ’80s and ’90s.For anyone who is not yet 21, restaurants such as Japonais and Sushi Bar feature karaoke during the weekends. Or, if students feel inclined to create a tradition in the comfort of their own homes, some Bloomington electronic stores provide karaoke machines.The Bluebird NightclubWhen: Doors open at 9 p.m. MondaysCost: $1 coverStarted in January 2006, Monday night karaoke crowds at the Bluebird Nightclub vary from locals to bachelorette parties and in songs from Willie Nelson to Madonna.Jason Groth, emcee of Bluebird Karaoke for three years, said he doesn’t want performers to get angry if he subtly makes fun of their performance, or if he gets really sweaty before the night is over.“It’s all part of the host’s job, right?” he said.For Groth, a good karaoke performance must draw on pure confidence.“Sometimes a good voice can push a karaoke performance over the top, but I’d rather see someone who is genuinely moved by the act of singing (or trying to sing) than someone with a trained voice who goes for the safe song,” he said.The emcee also suggests people sign up to sing early, as he noted there are about 60 people in line during the busiest times, and it’s first come, first served.Jake’s Live Band Karaoke Jake’s inaugurated two new karaoke staples this week. These events are backed up by live bands.Mustache RadioWhen: 10:30 p.m. TuesdaysCost: $3 coverIn conjunction with Hoosier Country 105.1, the band Mustache Radio plays a wide assortment of country favorites. Artists range from Kid Rock to Sara Evans to Lynyrd Skynyrd.Rock ’N’ Roll KaraokeWhen: 11 p.m. every other WednesdayCost: $1 coverSupergroup Good E Nuff, consisting of members of local bands Busman’s Holiday, Prizzy Prizzy Please and Tammar play the hits of the ’80s and ’90s. For the event’s full song selection and for a chance to suggest upcoming tunes, go to www.myspace.com/livebandkaraokejakes.The Office LoungeWhen: 10 p.m. Thursdays, Fridays and SaturdaysCost: No cover chargeBartender Molly Mehringer said karaoke at the Office Lounge is a tradition that surpasses her 10-year career at the bar.Although the Lounge is not a student-oriented bar, she noted it offers a diverse group of local flavor. It is also not always jam-packed, the song selection is an accumulation over the past few years, and the actual karaoke machine belongs to the owner. Not 21? Want to have your own karaoke experience?DIY KaraokeCollege Mall Radioshack Manager Crystal Selburg said the store just received two karaoke machines last week. She said this is because customers usually seek out the music machines as gifts around Christmas time.Emerson CD-GPrice: $99.99 Comes with microphone, screens and speakers. iPod hookup, four CDs (100 songs)Emerson Plug and SingCost: $19.99Comes with disc and microphone, one CD.Compatible with Xbox, Xbox 360, DVD, Playstation PS2Also available at Best BuyGPX Karaoke Party MachineCost: $42.99GPX CD+G Karaoke SystemCost: $74.99For coverage of Rock ‘N’ Roll Karaoke, check out www.idsnews.com/blogs/livebuzz.
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>For IU alumnus Olaolu Jegede, today’s hip-hop show, headlined by commercial heavy hitter David Banner and underground lyricist turned respected Mainstream MC, won’t be like any other this town has seen.“All three acts are very well-respected and bring their own perspectives, styles and personalities to the table, and I’m confident that all three will be great crowd-pleasers,” Jegede said.At The Bluebird Nightclub, Banner and Talib Kweli, along with Little Brother will perform their three brands of hip-hop. The event is part of the second annual Hip Hop Live! Tour that Kweli and Banner are headlining. “Bloomington has had many great hip-hop acts before, but relative to the prominence of other types of shows in Bloomington, solid hip-hop shows are a rarity,” said Jegede, who is also an IU employee.Although he is not officially related to any of the acts or the actual event, Jegede created the Facebook event for Bloomington’s Hip Hop Live! night. Director of Bluebird promotions and senior Ari Solomon echoed Jegede’s sentiment about the popularity of these emcees. He noted the recent success of Banner, who is known for songs such as “Play” and “Get Like Me,” which also features Chris Brown and Young Joc. Solomon additionally noted that Kweli “has grown from underground rap to mainstream success.” According to the Kweli official Web site biography, the Brooklyn emcee has maintained his underground roots while still maintaining the popularity and respect of revered emcees such as Jay-Z. He was an original member of hip-hop group Black Star, supported Beastie Boys in 2004 and appeared several times as a guest on “Chapelle’s Show.”The 4,000th member to join the Bluebird’s fan page on Facebook will win two free tickets to tonight’s show, Solomon said.The opener for tonight, Little Brother, is a North Carolina native and arguably the least mainstream out of all the three performers. According to his MySpace page, he is currently on an indie label.Last year’s Live headliners were Ghostface Killah and Rakim, who also made a stop at the Bluebird on Nov. 13, 2007, the three-year anniversary of the death of Wu-Tang member Ol’ Dirty Bastard.In addition to the three emcees present at Hip Hop Live!, a 10-piece live band will be present at the Bluebird stage, consisting of Rhythm Roots Allstars.This year’s Hip Hop Live! will conclude Oct. 25 in New York.
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>I couldn’t have dreamed of a more perfect movie. Upon first hearing about “Nick and Norah’s Infinite Playlist,” I was concerned it would try to capitalize on a string of quirky comedies that exploit indie rock.Luckily, the film, based on the book written by Rachel Cohn and David Levithan, creates a genuinely hilarious and adorable romantic comedy.Nick, played by Michael Cera (“Juno,” “Arrested Development”) and Norah, played by Kat Dennings (“House Bunny”) are high school seniors and total strangers who meet while in limbo between terrible relationships. As the film progresses, the two realize these relationships shouldn’t be controlled by pure attachment and an unnecessary low self-esteem problem. They also find out they are “music soulmates,” which sounds pretty dumb, but is actually heartwarmingly funny.The humor depicted here is a younger-generation descendent of Judd Apatow. The inappropriate and gross stuff is still there, but there’s also relevance and pop-culture shout-outs, not to mention universal hilarity based on human lunacy. Unlike “Juno,” it’s not filled with one-liners and an incomprehensible lingo. And in contrast to “Garden State,” the music isn’t force fed, but naturally woven into the plot.And yes, the soundtrack is great. But it only enhances the movie, instead of making up for a lack of plot and character development.Even better, bands featured here like Vampire Weekend and Takka Takka have actually played in Bloomington recently, and the band Cera’s Nick opens for, Bishop Allen, is on local label Dead Oceans. The score also features an original theme courtesy of former Devo member and Wes Anderson wonderboy Mark Mothersbaugh. This will certainly give the awkward music lovers of the high school generation confidence and hope. All the actors, from Cera and Dennings to supporters Jay Baruchel and Ari Graynor, deliver strong performances and make sure the characters aren’t cliches or archetypes, but real.The film does feature typical constructions, from douchebags who want to be in a band for the fame and girls to wannabe hipster sluts who don’t know anything about music, but they’re played as realistically as possible.I wish this movie had come out when I was a teenager, but it is still great to be able to watch a high school flick and actually appreciate it, instead of feeling like an old fart. Cynics will find “Nick and Norah’s Infinite Playlist” a bit too optimistic, but that’s OK, as it’s always the ones who don’t try to be happy that remain miserable. So here’s to happy endings for awkward, crazy kids who really like music.
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>California natives The Donkeys are what Bloomingtonians need to listen to while we can still enjoy the days before the winter freezes our good mood.The Donkeys sound like your best friends jamming on your porch, singing about everyday things we all can relate to. It’s a brand of rock ’n’ roll that’s very much alive and well.I haven’t come across a band so capable of being universally liked since The Arcade Fire. The breezy, yet quirky guitar rhythms settle like a comfortable feeling with the album’s intro “Gone Gone Gone.” The opener then transitions to the catchy “Walk Through a Cloud.”But perhaps the best track is “Excelsior Lady,” a sexy sing-along jam that is sure to be a crowd pleaser. The lyrics, like most on the album, are simple and universal, yet detail-oriented. Take an example from “Lady”: “Are we lovers, or we just friends / Oh I believe, oh I believe, I’m in love again.”Casual music listeners will love the pop sensibilities, stoners will love the psychedelic grooves and music lovers will just appreciate that they can dance along or chill out to this album.Oh, and your parents will be reminded of everything from Crosby Stills, Nash & Young to The Grateful Dead.It’s taken The Donkeys four years to finally release Living on the Other Side, and it’s safe to say it's worth the wait.
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>If you thought “The O.C.” was vapid and shallow, don’t even bother with “Gossip Girl.” After their California teenage drama was canceled in 2007, writers and producers Josh Schwartz and Stephanie Savage switched coasts and adapted Cecily von Ziegesar’s hit book series.The result: The kids here are even more wealthy, which means they are also more glamorous and scandalous. But they’re also less likeable. When Serena, played by “it girl” Blake Lively, returns to New York after her mysterious disappearance, the whole town knows she’s back by the time she arrives at the train station.All the Manhattan teenage socialites are talked about on “Gossip Girl”’s blog, whose anonymous narrator is voiced by Kristen Bell (“Veronica Mars”). The technology that these teenagers use reflects their fast-paced lifestyle, as well as the timeliness of this particular teen soap.The other cultural time capsule of “Gossip Girl,” and arguably its best aspect, is the fashion. Additionally, the explanation of each character’s unique style is the best special feature. Even critical New York blog Gawker drooled over pictures of the pretty cast members while they shot episodes in the Hamptons this summer.While Serena’s style is more bohemian and borderline messy, her counterpart Blair (Leighton Meester) is classic, always accented with something sassy. Serena’s Brooklyn boytoy Dan (Penn Badgley) is an East Coast, watered-down Seth Cohen, complete with cardigans and vintage suits. While their outfits are perfectly planned out, the depth of the actual characters leaves something to be desired.One would hope that the outsider is more interesting and deep than his old-money counterparts, but Dan is an indie boy cliche. The more interesting male character is the conniving Chuck Bass (Ed Westwick) who is always scheming something. But even his brooding and subtle hints of humanism get old. But perhaps I’m being too hard on “Gossip Girl.” It’s chock-full of drama and pretty people, and ultimately entertaining. After all, this is the first teenage soap I’ve watched after my own grade school days were long gone. But both its novelty and relatable aspects have worn thin. It’s not that I don’t like the style, I just wish there were more substance.
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>Deciding which Bloomington bar or nightclub to hit up on any given night can often reflect on how cheap the cover and drinks are, or perhaps just where your friends might be. This issue, WEEKEND finds five regular 21+ events around town that highlight local, regional and national acts – from singer/songwriters to Jazz performers and DJs. Some of these are B-town traditions, while others have just started to pick up their feet.Oh, and don’t worry – the cover and drink specials aren’t half bad, either. Singer-Songwriter showcaseWhen: Mondays, 8 to 10 p.m.Where: Players Pub, 424 S. Walnut St.Cover: FreeDrink prices: Drafts $2.50 to $3.75; Wine $4 to $8; Bottled beer $2 to $4Inspired by Nashville, Tenn., songwriters’ showcase, this event was founded a little over a year ago by Stella and Jane band members Suzette Weakley and Bobbie Lancaster. Players Pub owner Greg Hill said that each week, it showcases about four to six different singer-songwriters – mostly acoustic – in the pub’s quiet listening room. While Hill noted that IU students are not the primary spectators, he said it’s because they are just not aware of the event. This week’s performers will include Steev Wisher, Aaron Persinger, Dale Gardner and Joe Persinger.To listen to some of its past, present and future performers, and learn more about the event, check out the pub’s Myspace page, www.myspace.com/bloomingtonsongwritershowcase. Total Trash TuesdaysWhen: Tuesdays, 9 p.m. to 2:30 a.m.Where: The Bluebird Nightclub, 216 N. Walnut St.Cover: $1 to $3Drink prices: $1 Pabst Blue Ribbon can specialEvent promoter and booker, Jay McClurg said he hopes Total Trash Tuesdays is a weekly party for its attendees. Indeed, Tuesday nights at the Bluebird this summer resemble house shows more than a typical night at the bar. Friends congregate while sipping PBR cans, while others jam to the performing bands or simply nod their heads. The night draws local, regional and national acts. Past acts have included Sticky and the Bees, The Delicious and Band of Annuals. McClurg added that it is also a good opportunity to highlight acts that are not necessarily a cover or national touring act to the Bluebird. This Tuesday, entitled “Totally Dance Tuesday,” will feature Totally Michael and DJs Flufftronix and Action Jackson. To find out more about upcoming artists, check out the event’s Facebook group, “Total Trash Tuesdays @ the Bluebird.” Hip-Hop NightWhen: Tuesdays, 10 p.m. to 3 a.m. Where: Uncle Fester’s House of Blooze, 430 E. Kirkwood Ave.Cover: $1Drink prices: $1 well-drinks specialWith Hip-Hop Night, DJ Wally Wonder, aka Jeff Barrows, hopes to “revive what was once a Bloomington favorite in 2003 to 2004.” Barrows began spinning at the event in June, and Fester’s promoter Josh Johnson said its “been improving every time.” Hip-Hop Night draws from ’80s to ’90s hip-hop, and less from top 40 jams. The event began this June, and Johnson and Barrows are confident that it will only take a matter of time for the feel-good night to pick up. Barrows hopes to expand the event into a hip-hop forum by including the three other elements of the genre: breakdancing, MCing and graffiti. Some of Barrows favorite club songs are Lil Wayne’s “Lollipop,” Justice’s “One Minute to Midnight,” Estelle’s “American Boy,” Madonna’s “The Beat Goes On” and new material from Musiq Soulchild. Jazz FablesWhen: Thursdays, 5:30 to 8 p.m.Where: Bear’s Place, 1316 E. Third St.Cover: $5 to $8Drink prices: $5.50 Long Island Ice Tea; $7 Hairy Bear; $6 Hairy Beaver; $3.50 32 ounce domestics Jazz Fables is a 17-year-old Bloomington tradition that was started by IU professor David Miller. Bear’s Place General Manager Jim Reef said that it has stood the test of time because of Jazz’s timeless nature, large worldwide following and American origins. He added that the most important factor is its proximity to one of the best music schools in the nation: Jacobs. Performing artists at Jazz Fables range from undergrad students to international recording artists. This Thursday, catch Dennis Riggins’ “Swing Thing.” “He’s a local guy, but has also played with all the big acts, too,” Reef said.Soul in the HoleWhen: Saturdays (bi-weekly) 9 p.m. to 1 or 2 a.m.Where: FARMbloomington’s Root Cellar, 108 E. Kirkwood Ave.Cover: $2Drink prices: Beer $2.50 to $4.50; Bourbon drinks $3.75+, depending on type of BourbonFARM might be best known for its locally produced organic food, but every other Saturday night, the sounds of soul emit from its underground bourbon bar.While most modern DJs spin hip-hop and top 40 hits, this bi-weekly event specializes in “Soul/Funk/R&B from the days of yore,” Heath Byers, aka DJ White Light White Heath, said. FARM Manager Amber Turner said that the Root Cellar is reminiscent of a speakeasy, and that it provides an intimate atmosphere where “everybody just kind of relaxes.” “The music is piped into all the rooms, but it’s more so a place to relax than a pumping dance party,” Byers said. “But that said, there is also a small area in which to dance for those so inclined.”The next Soul in the Hole will be July 26. Byers will be joined by Dan Coleman, aka DJ Junebug, and Jonathan Richardson, aka DJ Jonny Yuma.For further information on upcoming events, or if you’re a local act interested in performing at the cellar, check out www.myspace.com/theroutecellar.
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>Not too long ago, I read one of the most intriguing Editor’s letters I’ve ever come across. I can’t even remember the publication, but it was most likely some women’s magazine. Anyway, this lady editor just met a Russian bus driver. He feverishly told her that Americans are the only individuals who have the luxury to be concerned with their happiness. This notorious pursuit of happiness is of course undeniably American. It seems a triviality for other countries that are just busy trying to get by.And this quest for happiness is often subsequently reflected throughout American entertainment. Foreign films rarely have that Hollywood happy ending that the masses crave. Traditional sitcoms present and resolve a problem in less than 30 minutes, give or take a few “to-be-continued” segments. These happy endings and quick resolutions have in many ways fooled Americans. While we all know that life will not always imitate art, it’s only human to hope. The renowned journalist Ellen Willis said, “My deepest impulses are optimistic; an attitude that seems to me as spiritually necessary and proper as it is intellectually suspect.”Will McDreamy and Meredith ever make it? Is Will Smith going to land that stockbroker job? Can Oscar the Grouch ever cheer up? Chances are slim, but hopes sure are high. Americans aren’t joined together by a common race, religion or radio station. But there’s a drive for success – the so-called American Dream. I, for one, am still naive, so I think I can be a great journalist someday. How much of that is stemmed from the first time I watched “Almost Famous” when I was in fifth grade? A lot. And I’m sure there are plenty of other budding enthusiasts out there who are inspired by films and entertainment. If I were a struggling rapper, I would have been so pumped and optimistic after I saw “Get Rich or Die Tryin’.” That’s because I (hopefully) would also be a much better rapper in general than Fiddy. So if he made it, why can’t I?Nowadays, rappers are truly the best examples of the American Dream. I mean, have you heard The Notorious B.I.G.’s “Juicy”? “I never thought it could happen, this rappin’ stuff/ I was too used to packin’ gats and stuff/ Now honeys play me close like butter played toast/From the Mississippi down to the East Coast/ Condos in Queens, Indo for weeks/ Sold-out seats to hear Biggie Smalls speak.”But of course, Americans – especially rappers – are not immune to the laws of gravity. What comes up must always come down, too. Biggie was killed March 9, 1997, also the day I turned nine.Once you reach that dream – that moment in your life you think you might have found happiness – who knows how long it will last? A day, a month, a year? Possibly more? I wonder what Biggie would do differently if he could go back. Would he not take part in the rap game and just find a regular job in Brooklyn? Would Kurt Cobain work at a guitar shop in Seattle and Janis Joplin as a lounge singer in Texas?I think they’d all say, “Hell no.” And I’m not saying this because of my naievete. Frankly, life is too goddamn short to settle for mediocrity. And the hope for happiness is far better than the comfort of being average, and even worse – boring. Americans have to survive and get by just like everyone else. You have to go through classes you hate before you get to the good stuff, and start off with lousy jobs. But if you hate your major, your job or your friends – you’re going to hate yourself, too. Maybe you’ll never quite make it at the top, which is why you should actually surround yourself with people who care about you enough to cheer you up. Find what you love. Love what you do. Don’t let the haters get to you. And for the love of God, try as hard as you can to find that ounce of happiness. It’s your duty as an American, after all.