MCB's Drew Bender was out in Royal Oak on Thursday night for some glowstick pumping action, courtesy of jamtronica adepts Lotus. Check out some of Drew's shots below:
2/27/10
Ballet Folklorico De Mexico @ The Music Hall, Detroit ; 3/5 - 3/6
Music Hall Center for the Performing Arts Takes you on a marvelous tour of a many-splendored land - as dance, music, costume and song sweep you from tropical ports to rugged ranch towns, from lost civilizations to lakeside fiesta, with the legendary Ballet Folklorico de Mexico, for TWO performances, Friday March 5th and Saturday, March 6th at 8PM.
In 1952, Amalia Hernández, dancer and choreographer, founded the Ballet Folklórico of México, having embarked, at a very early age, on a never-ending quest to rescue the dancing traditions of Mexico. The vital search became a basic need to reflect not only in Mexico but the rest of the world, the beauty of the Universe in motion which started with the pre-Colombian civilizations and grew with the Hispanic influences of the Vice royal era up to the popular strength of the Revolutionary years. In 1954, Amalia started a series of presentations that credited her as the Cultural Representative of Mexico to the world at large.
"Passionate...impeccable...and unequaled point of entry to the riches of a fabulous culture!"
-Los Angeles Times
The present time fades before your eyes and thus commences our journey through the past. The Lords of Heaven and Earth come back to life, the Jaguars, the Gods born of human flesh, thirty different cultures that blossomed in centuries once, leaving behind a trail of color in which Amalia Hernández was inspired to create the Ballet Folklórico of México.
International success has been achieved during the first tours and has been maintained through the fifty years of incessant artistic endeavors. Starting from the sixties, Amalia Hernández and the Ballet Folklórico of México have developed the choreographies for 40 ballets, composed of 76 folk dancers. The music, technical perfection, sophisticated wardrobe and original choreographies, create this singular character of the Ballet. Amalia Hernández and the Ballet Folklórico of México have been distinguished with more than 200 awards in recognition to their artistic merits.
"...Amalia Hernández is an expert at putting together fast-paced entertaining shows that can make viewers want to rush right off to Mexico"
- New York Times
The Ballet was initiated by performing a weekly program on television, sponsored by the Mexican government. Since the year of 1959 it is being permanently presented at the Palace of Fine Arts, foremost stage for Art Mexico City. The institution has two main artistic companies called The First Company and the Resident Company: both alternate tours and performances in Mexico and abroad. They have already performed more than five thousand presentations. The music, dance and costume of Mexican folklore combined with the talent of their artists have achieved national and international success.
"It is something of a wonder when thousand-year-old faces carved in their country in stone seem to come alive on the stage."
- New York News Day- Dance Review
Tickets are $50 $40 and $30 ($3 Preservation Fee included) and available at Music Hall Box Office or ticketmaster.com.
I Am Cursed and friends to play @ The Magic Stick, Detroit; 3/5/10
Be sure to hit 'The Stick' on the 5th for some quality action from these bands:
Its The Chariot
Greeley Estates
Inhale Exhale
Memphis may Fire
The Color Morale
I am Cursed
Wild Bill Ketelhut provides the "blog" to this anti-blog
He has a radio program on WXOU out of Oakland University
Wild At Heart
He has a radio program on WXOU out of Oakland University
Wild At Heart
Wild At Heart special Autorama edition
Just a little reminder about a cool event in town as we see one of my favorite car related happenings with Autorama down at Cobo. I went down yesterday to see what was happening and I'm reporting back to you my faithful readers. One of the models that was getting ready to pose with some of the cars pretty much summed up the show as she entered the hall with the word "Shiny". When you enter the hall, the cars you first come across are the best of the customs with their immaculate paint jobs and polished chrome that looks sterile enough to eat off.
If you are their for entertainment, you have performances from 2 hip rockabilly bands, the Twistin' Tarantulas and Swingin' Demons who are rocking the downstairs stage. Upstairs in the "the Fonz", Henry Winkler. If you want a picture or autograph, make sure to bring $20. I just went up to shake his hand and kind of got rushed off the stage. However, if you are buying, he will take time with you. I remember when celebs would show up and not charge, still it was cool meeting the "Fonz". I remember having a Fonz costume when I was a wee lad about 100 years ago.
Among the cars, their are a few highlights you should make sure you see. Allen Park resident Bob Causey has put a multitude of hours in his garage to build his interpretation of the Batmobile, an amazing work of art with these incredible bat wings and LCD displays that just blew me away. I thought Christain Bale was going to come racing around a corner to track down some crazy villain. I predict this will get the kids choice award. Also, Detroit's own customizer supreme, Chuck Miller, is honored and has brought a number of his famously designed vehicles including the Red Baron which looks cool with it's fake machine guns on the side. He also has copies of his new book which looks back on his life and his work.
I also enjoyed the vintage 60's drag racers and the toy fair which had a lot of cool collectibles to browse through. If you have the time, their are a lot of beautiful cars and other events going on to make for a wonderful experience. Go to http://www.autorama.com for more information.
Tune in Monday when I review the new movie "The Crazies", the play "Young Frankenstein", talk about the Blowout, the Detroit Independent Film Festival and whatever else comes up on my radar.
2/26/10
THIS WEEKEND: Michigan Antiques Expo @ Southfield Pavilion
"MICHIGAN'S FINEST ANTIQUES EVENT"
A top quality, general show in its 30th season
The Southfield Civic Center
Southfield, Michigan
On Evergreen Road
at Civic Center Drive (10 1/2 Mile)
exit south on Evergreen from I-696
DATES
February 26, 27 & 28, 2010
SHOW HOURS
Friday 2:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Saturday 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Sunday 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
ADMISSION
$8.00
- discount admission with any advertisement -
$6.00 admission if you print this page and bring it with you!
- Good for all 3 days! -
Over 75 Nationally Recognized Exhibitors
Three Days of Historical Treasure Hunting for the Antiques Collector, Novice to Expert
The Southfield Pavilion Antiques Exposition is known as "Michigan’s most exciting and important antiques show and sale." A Diverse Selection of American, European, and Oriental, Antiques & Decorative Art are featured. Antiques dealers from across the country, noted authors, and nationally known experts will be exhibiting and selling their antiques collections. Excellent dining and free parking will be available. The Southfield Pavilion Antiques Exposition not only provides the family with an inexpensive fun filled afternoon of historical treasure hunting, but also creates an enchanting weekend shopping experience for the antiques enthusiast, novice to expert, to browse, discover and add to their collections of fine antiques.
THIS WEEKEND: "Rope" by Barefoot Productions
"Rope"
Walker/Buzenberg Building
240 N. Main
Plymouth
$12, $10 students/seniors
justgobarefoot.com
ROPE is the 1929 suspense thriller (set in London) that inspired the classic Alfred Hitchcock film, starring Jimmy Stewart. Two wealthy collegians execute a "perfect murder," placing the hapless victim's body in their parlor trunk and proceeding to host a dinner party, serving food off the same macabre trunk.
Barefoot Productions' presentation will be performed in REAL TIME, starting at 8:40pm, with NO intermission. Our unique production will keep you on the edge of your seat!
Performances:
Feb: 12, 13, 19, 20, 26, 27
(Evening performances begin @ 8:40pm)
Feb. 21 & 28 @ 2pm
For tickets, call 734-560-1493, or click here.
2/25/10
THIS WEEKEND: Motor City Tattoo Expo
Eternal Tattoos Inc. & Route 66 Tattoo presents
The 15th Annual
Motor City Tattoo Expo
February 26th - Feburary28th 2010
Detroit Marriott/Renaissance Center
Detroit, Michigan
The 15th Annual
Motor City Tattoo Expo
February 26th - Feburary28th 2010
Detroit Marriott/Renaissance Center
Detroit, Michigan
Conventions Hours:
Friday: Noon - 11:00PM
Saturday: 11:00AM - 11:00PM
Sunday: 11:00AM - 7:00PM
Cost:
$20.00 - day pass
$30.00 - 2 day pass
$40.00 - weekend pass
Contest Categories
Judging will be at 3:00pm on Saturday and Sunday. Top three in each category.
Saturday
Best Tribal
Best Traditional
Best Black & Gray Small
Best Black & Gray Medium
Best Color Small
Best Color Medium
Most Unusual
Sunday
Most Realistic (with picture)
Best Sleeve
Best Black & Gray Large
Best Color Large
Best Full Back
Best Over-All Female
Best Over-All Male
Best of Show
Click on Links below for more info
Hotel Reservations: 313 568-8000
Convention Info
Guest Artist List
Contests & Categories
Seminars
More Info: 248 667-4065
FRIDAY: Johnny Cash Birthday Bash @ Belmont
FEATURING
The Phantom Shakers
with
Rocket Ray
and
Handmade Wearables by Amber von Doom
Friday, February 26, 2010
9:00 PM - 1:30 AM
Where:
The Belmont
10215 Joseph Campau
Hamtramck, MI 48212
313.871.1966
$5 Cover 18+
FRIDAY: Tour Party / Instrumental Music Fest @ Small's
Friday 27 February @ 8pm
The Meltdown, United Space League, The Amino Acids, more TBA
Small's
10339 Conant, Hamtramck MI 48212
Phone: (313) 873-1117
Tour Party / Instrumental Music Fest! ALL AGES! Cost: $6
The Meltdown, United Space League, The Amino Acids, more TBA
Small's
10339 Conant, Hamtramck MI 48212
Phone: (313) 873-1117
Tour Party / Instrumental Music Fest! ALL AGES! Cost: $6
Save Motorcityrocks.com Tonight!!!
SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT!!!
There is going to be an awesometastic Motor City Rocks Benefit Concert happening FEBRUARY 25th at the Lager House. The cost is only $5, feel free to donate more. If you can’t make it and still want to donate consider donating at our kickstarter.
We’re hoping to raise enough money so we can get some portable lights so we can record interviews that don’t come out in accidental sepia tone!
Marco Polio & The New Vaccines – Traversing the dimensional vortex through the use of imbrellas, Marco Polio makes Picasso look dull and limes taste sweet. Recently described as creating a “happening” (780’s), if you haven’t seen this band, you’re life might be meaningless.
The Jesus Chainsaw Massacre – Psychedelic garage rock with punk undertones and theatrics rivaling Hedwig and the Angry Inch. The most hated and, somehow, also at the same time, the most loved band in Detroit. Winner of “Outstanding Electronic Artist” at Detroit Music Awards (2009) and recently described as “devoid of any miniscule crumb of fashion sense” (Computer Perfection). If you haven’t seen this band, you may have an undiagnosed personality disorder.
Sheefy McFly – Only one man has the ability to bridge the gap between rock and hip hop, to heal a city tearing itself apart, to make everything he touches get in the groove. Sheefy has been recently described as “one of the dopest artist/producer/emcee to ever walk the Earth ….at least I think so lol” (Sheefy McFly). If you haven’t seen him, you’re not cool
The Thornbills – The sweet catchy acoustic melodies of The Thornbills will melt your heart. They’ve been recently described as “a magical blend of Appalachian folk with a knack for intelligent and truthful songwriting” (Steve Barman). If you haven’t seen this band, here is your chance! Rule of indie rock: if you see them first you are the best!
-jr
-jr is a musician/dj/blogger/writer from Detroit, MI. He performs in the band The Jesus Chainsaw Massacre and writes a cultural blog under the same moniker. When Dj'ing he uses the handle DJ JCM. He has been an integral part of the Detroit Music mechanation for the past 10 years. He knows just about everything about music on both a local and national level. His opinon is gold and is infallible.
Eroticism in the 'D'
DONT FORGET!
THE 23rd EROTIC POETRY
AND MUSIC FESTIVAL
THE 23rd EROTIC POETRY
AND MUSIC FESTIVAL
'An eclectic celebration of the erotic arts!'
The date is: SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 9 pm , 21 &over are welcome. Admission is $8. Partial proceeds benefit the Michigan based non-profit organization "Paws with a Cause," who provide and train leader dogs for the disabled.
The event will be held at THE CORKTOWN TAVERN located at 1716 Michigan Avenue in Corktown. (313.964.5103) www.myspace.com/eroticfestivaldetroit.
Hosted by: The Impaler & Peter SchornThis year we are pleased to have Detroit ’s premier performance artist, Satori Circus. Other highlights will be the debut musical collaboration of Hayley Jane & Audra Kubat and readings by poetess Archaela Cindy Cadaver and Blue Dogma Poet-Dena Luckett. The visual art portion of the show has expanded! Joining our perennial artist Jeff Hocking is Chopper Peshkepia, Julie Fournier and photography by LAWRENCEcreative and Eugene Sherrill.
Poetry and Music Performances by: Satori Circus, Hayley Jane & Audra Kubat, Dixon 's Violin, Olive Jus, Emily Rose, Chinonye Goddess, Archaela, Cindy Cadaver, Jimmy Doom, Vic Toledo, Blue Dogma Poet-Dena Luckett, Lisa Vicious, Scott Boman, Jaye Thomas, Blue J., Catlistening, Laura Bodary
Art by: Jeff Hocking, Chopper Peshkepia, Julie Fournier, Eugene Sherril, ...and MCB's very own LAWRENCEcreative
2/24/10
I was in the Henry Winkler Fan Club.
That's not even a joke.
We've already posted about the Autorama(ramaramaaaa), but I needed to bring it a little closer to home. We can't possibly highlight this enough.
Henry Winkler will be signing autographs.
Yes. Henry Winkler. AUTOGRAPHS.
Nah, I'm just kiddin'. IT'S THE FONZ!!
Do not even pretend that you're too cool for that.
We've already posted about the Autorama(ramaramaaaa), but I needed to bring it a little closer to home. We can't possibly highlight this enough.
Henry Winkler will be signing autographs.
Yes. Henry Winkler. AUTOGRAPHS.
Barry Zuckerkorn. In. The. FLESH.
Nah, I'm just kiddin'. IT'S THE FONZ!!
Do not even pretend that you're too cool for that.
Henry Winkler - "The Fonz" from "Happy Days" (charges for autographs)
Friday 6:00-9:00
Saturday 12:00-4:00 & 6:00-9:00
Sunday 12:00-4:00
Friday 6:00-9:00
Saturday 12:00-4:00 & 6:00-9:00
Sunday 12:00-4:00
Autorama, Rockin' and Rollin' all weekend long at Cobo Center
Friday, February 26: 12:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Saturday, February 27: 9:00 am – 10:00 pm
Sunday, February 28: 11:00 am – 8:00 pm
Gate: General Admission – $ 18.00
Children 6-12 – $5.00
Friday, February 26: 12:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Saturday, February 27: 9:00 am – 10:00 pm
Sunday, February 28: 11:00 am – 8:00 pm
Gate: General Admission – $ 18.00
Children 6-12 – $5.00
MHS 2010 Telethon & Pet Photo Contest
Thank you for your interest in participating in the Michigan Humane Society’s Online Pet Photo Contest! The contest is a fun and upbeat way to show off your furry family member to loved ones worldwide - all while changing the lives of homeless animals in our community.
There are two ways to participate in the MHS Online Pet Photo Contest:
1. Create a web page featuring your pet’s photo, and campaign for him or her to be named MHS’ “Pet of the Year.”
2. Support a friend or family member’s campaign by donating online.
3. Share information about the contest on Facebook, Twitter, Myspace and more. You can click the "Share" button on the upper-right of every page to post the page link to all of your favorite social network accounts and even send the link through email.
While the contest is light-hearted, the reality is that all votes placed — and all dollars raised — will ultimately help MHS provide second chances to animals in need. The Michigan Humane Society receives no government funding, is not a United Way agency, and is not affiliated with any national humane organizations. Yet each year, MHS provides care for more than 100,000 animals in our communities through programs including animal sheltering and adoption, veterinary care, cruelty investigation, legislative advocacy, humane education and much more. But we can’t do it without you!
Contest Guidelines:
To submit your pet’s photo, a minimum $20 donation is required to enter the contest. The entry fee will be included in the overall funds donated to your campaign.
Each dollar donated to a pet’s campaign represents one vote. The pet with the most votes will be named MHS’ Pet of the Year, and revealed online on Friday, March 5. All donations are tax-deductible by law.
All photos and votes must be submitted by midnight on Sunday, February 28.
Winners:
The top three pets to receive the most votes will receive the following:
Winner: The pet with the most money raised will be named MHS’ Pet of the Year. In addition to having their photo prominently featured online at www.michiganhumane.org for the remainder of the year, they will also receive a special featured placement in the MHS 2011 Pet Calendar.
1st Runner-Up: The pet with the second highest number of votes will receive a special MHS Retail Prize Pack.
2nd Runner-Up: The pet with the third highest number of votes will receive an MHS T-shirt.
Additionally, all pets whose campaign raised at least $360 — enough to transform the lives of three animals in need — will have their photo featured online in the “2010 MHS Honor Roll.”
Photo Submissions:
Photos may contain only one pet, and should not contain people.
Photos of dogs and cats wearing collars and ID tags are encouraged, as well as submissions of cats photographed indoors.
One person may submit as many campaigns as they wish. However, please remember that if friends or family members are encouraged to spread out their votes over multiple campaigns, chances of one pet winning the “Pet of the Year” may be reduced.
Any inappropriate images submitted will be removed at the discretion of the Michigan Humane Society, with no opportunity for a refund.
early FFF due to MCB Vacation
Its finally here!!!MCB vacation!
I am off to a better place where nude women bring you cold beers
so this is an early Fast Free Friday
see you in a month and hope the other MCB peeps hook it up
so this is an early Fast Free Friday
see you in a month and hope the other MCB peeps hook it up
starting with that jamacian shell shown in the picture above
Free pair of EARLOVE hi-fi ear protection
Free copy of Echo from Matt Stevens
Matt Stevens does guitar stuff.
"Even though that record is a must-buy for anyone with an interest in acoustic Guitar music, his regular online concerts or live performances are just as intoxicating. Let there be no doubt about it, after all: Matt Stevens may have some delicious studio cuts on offer, but the stage is still the best place to appreciate this both experimental and deadly catchy music."Tokafi.com
mattstevensguitar@btinternet.com
Local detroit band The Phage asked us to post up about them
so here it is and one of our peeps will be buying something from them at blowout
so we can give it to you
The Phage will be performing at the Metro Times Blowout
on March 4th at the New Dodge Lounge in Hamtramck.
The Phage
Basement rock with A.D.D.
from Detroit
In the summer of 2002 the Kish brothers, Mike (Queen Bee), Pat, and Tim, stumbled upon the rhythmic stylings of percussionist Ben Moore (Remainder). This band’s been producing hard-hitting, melodic rock for short attention spans, in and around the Detroit area ever since. While they have memorable hooks and up-beat kicks, The Phage’s sound is hardly run-of-the-mill and has been compared to taking a breath of fresh air while stubbing your toe on a brick of solid gold. The Phage’s latest and first full length album, "Princess Magma", is full of catchy lyrics and simplistic melodies that often give way to group chants and even a scream-along chorus or two when played live. As well as being sympathetic to the A.D.D. generation, The Phage takes the time to capture all aspects of great song writing, and is well suited for the music lovers of the world that are thirsty for something fresh in their radio diet. The Phage’s dynamic sound is largely due to a wide variety of influences spanning from Motown to metal and from old world to electronica; but when you listen you’ll find that they seem to have twisted the best parts of Muse and Queens of the Stone Age together to come up with a very entertaining product that will wear out your player before it grows old.
The Phage’s previous EP, "Live Demo/ Studio Rec." is a classic example of the evolution of a band. There are a few songs from this disc still heard at live performances but as it is "Princess Magma" is a much better representation of the type of work this band is currently doing. "Live Demo/ Studio Rec." is fun to listen to and a must have for the die hard fan, but when it comes to over all quality of writing and execution of songs, "Princess Magma" is clearly superior. The Phage is always working toward their next best song and they’re constantly coming out with more and better, well written and well received material.
Every member of The Phage shows a commitment to their craft when they explode onto a live stage, seemingly possessed by the energy of the song at hand. The attention of the audience members tends to be pleasantly ensnared by the mesmerizing antics and ever changing modes of sound. Bombastic percussion, crunchy, ear splitting guitar, over-driven bass, three vocals up front, and a little synth to fill it all in, are some of the main components of this heart racing, lung vibrating, fiasco known as The Phage!
www.myspace.com/thephage
www.reverbnation.com/thephage
Copy of the latest CD from Winnipeg's BOATS
who are coming straight to Detroit from SXSW
and are playing Lager House on March 23rd
Boats play music songs in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada with lyrics about dismemberment (the good kind), excellent posture, and orthodontic surgery. A junky indie-pop band with high-end hopes but low-end equipment (total net worth of keyboard section: $40, all thrift store finds), Mat Klachefsky’s bizarre vocal chords mixed with his “infectiously catchy” pop songs and boundless energy have been freaking out audiences ever since they released their critically acclaimed first album "Intercontinental Champion" to local audiences in October 2007. Since then they have embarked on four Canadian tours, played a packed houses at SXSW, NXNE, Pop Montreal, WCMA's and Sled Island, and charted solidly all across Canada.
Boats just finished recording their 2nd full length album "Cannonballs, Cannonballs" which will be released on May 4th, through Sonic Unyon Distribution.
This album will take you to the beautiful bizarre world where; kids protect their summercamp from a fake mustache tree, TV shows are broadcast on the sides of buildings and Olympic ski jumpers dot the horizon. Including a duet about a fictional performing team: Smokestack who has a hole in his body; and Lucy who thinks she will be the mother of a flock of birds (but won't) (Smokestack & Lucy's Magnificent Cabaret) They are excited to take the rest of the universe to their world of complete, beautiful nonsense again.
Over the years there has been a rotating cast of Winnipeg musicians who have played in Boats, but the current version has a pack of Winnipeg all-stars surrounding singer-songwriter Mat Klachefsky. These can include, but are not limited to, members of The Western States, The Paperbacks, Half Court Prayer, The Details, The Paperbacks, Oldfolks Home, and Transistor Sound & Lighting Co.
Boats just finished recording their 2nd full length album "Cannonballs, Cannonballs" which will be released on May 4th, through Sonic Unyon Distribution.
This album will take you to the beautiful bizarre world where; kids protect their summercamp from a fake mustache tree, TV shows are broadcast on the sides of buildings and Olympic ski jumpers dot the horizon. Including a duet about a fictional performing team: Smokestack who has a hole in his body; and Lucy who thinks she will be the mother of a flock of birds (but won't) (Smokestack & Lucy's Magnificent Cabaret) They are excited to take the rest of the universe to their world of complete, beautiful nonsense again.
Over the years there has been a rotating cast of Winnipeg musicians who have played in Boats, but the current version has a pack of Winnipeg all-stars surrounding singer-songwriter Mat Klachefsky. These can include, but are not limited to, members of The Western States, The Paperbacks, Half Court Prayer, The Details, The Paperbacks, Oldfolks Home, and Transistor Sound & Lighting Co.
**BOATS ON TOUR**
Mar 11 – Reggie's Music Joint – Chicago, ILMar 12 – Rancho Relaxo (CMW) – Toronto, ONMar 13 – The Casbah – Hamilton, ONMar 14 – Raw Sugar – Ottawa, ONMar 15 – Casa Del Popolo - Montreal, QCMar 16 – Piano's – New York, NYC Mar 17-21 – SXSW – Austin, TXMar 22 – PJ's Lager House – Detroit, MIMar 23 – The Frequency – Madison, WIMar 24 – Sauce Soundbar - Minneapolis, MN
Mar 11 – Reggie's Music Joint – Chicago, ILMar 12 – Rancho Relaxo (CMW) – Toronto, ONMar 13 – The Casbah – Hamilton, ONMar 14 – Raw Sugar – Ottawa, ONMar 15 – Casa Del Popolo - Montreal, QCMar 16 – Piano's – New York, NYC Mar 17-21 – SXSW – Austin, TXMar 22 – PJ's Lager House – Detroit, MIMar 23 – The Frequency – Madison, WIMar 24 – Sauce Soundbar - Minneapolis, MN
FREE CD from Silversun Pickups who are opening for MUSEat the Palace of Auburn Hills on March 13th
Listen for them interviewed live with MCB's Wild Bill
next Saturday on WXOU
Swoon
(Dangerbird Records)
It’s no secret that Silversun Pickups score the soundtrack for the cacophony and quiet of the urban environment. Their songs curl like a sleeping dragon around the foothills, soar between the skyscrapers, and slouch in the shadows of forbidden offramps and skid row. The Silversun Pickups sound is a city itself and on the new album, Swoon, we tag along on a schizophrenic taxi ride to the dark side. After all, the City of Silversun is a landscape populated with contradictions: the clamor of traffic and the solace of the garden; fashionistas lined up at taco trucks after hours; moonlight bike rides and holdups at knifepoint.
It’s no secret that Silversun Pickups score the soundtrack for the cacophony and quiet of the urban environment. Their songs curl like a sleeping dragon around the foothills, soar between the skyscrapers, and slouch in the shadows of forbidden offramps and skid row. The Silversun Pickups sound is a city itself and on the new album, Swoon, we tag along on a schizophrenic taxi ride to the dark side. After all, the City of Silversun is a landscape populated with contradictions: the clamor of traffic and the solace of the garden; fashionistas lined up at taco trucks after hours; moonlight bike rides and holdups at knifepoint.
But Silversun Pickups would be nothing without the community that fostered them. Or so says guitar conjurer and siren songster, Brian Aubert. Brought together as a group of neighborhood friends, SSPU evolved into a homegrown behemoth as their muddy guitar fuzz, and ear-bursters blew across the world on the titanic 2006 stargazing, rocking debut LP, Carnavas. But for Aubert, the life of the rocker was never out of reach. “I’ve always lived around bands, so it took away all the myth and romanticism of being in a band. You knew you could do it.”
This band came of age in Los Angeles’ multicultural, bohemian enclave, Silver Lake, where the members learned to overcome their fears through playing in the organic network of clubs and bars that birthed Beck and Elliott Smith.
“When we were starting out, we were too shy to turn up the volume. Now we’re not afraid to get loud,” Aubert says. “I used to be nervous to go to the mic, now I swallow it.”
As Carnavas snowballed into an avalanche of critical praise, landed them on the Billboard charts and gained recognition from nose-turning indie rockers and mainstream pop lovers alike, frontman Aubert slowly realized that Silversun Pickups’ musical landscape was changing too. “We were landing on charts in countries I’d never been too, like Chile and all over South America. Things were changing fast.”
After two-plus years of touring, the band returned home to a different place than they had left. “It was a dark time when we got back. We had to water the relationships that we had neglected over those two years, and I think this darkness came out on our new record,” Aubert says.
The sediment of experience accumulated for the band, and they were eager to spit it out. They went back into the studio to produce what would become their much-anticipated second album, Swoon. The success of Carnavas offered a blessing and a challenge. There’s the breathing room that comes with a successful record and the pressure to produce a follow-up. SSPU returned to the studio with familiar friends, producer Dave Cooley (J Dilla, Darker My Love), and mixer Tony Hoffer (Depeche Mode, The Kooks), who helped create Carnavas. For Swoon, the aperture of the band opened up and allowed for possibilities the band never imagined.
“We wanted to add strings to creep the album out a bit, so we just wanted to have a quartet that were friends of the neighborhood. That quartet then turned into a 16-piece orchestra, which blew our mind,” Aubert expresses.
Swoon is a thick, layered listen, burgeoning with rich strings and crunchy guitars. The warm noise frothing from what sounds like a thousand guitars nearly crushes the opening track, “There’s No Secrets This Year.” Aubert’s delicate, wafting voice ties the driving drums and blistering bass together in a tightly wound web that keeps the track from imploding. At the peak of noise the track does what the album proclaims: it swoons, falling backward into a free flowing Eno-esque soundscape.The albumcelebrates the intimacy and anonymity of getting lost in a sea of people or the swarm of the cityscape, Aubert says.
Swoon is a thick, layered listen, burgeoning with rich strings and crunchy guitars. The warm noise frothing from what sounds like a thousand guitars nearly crushes the opening track, “There’s No Secrets This Year.” Aubert’s delicate, wafting voice ties the driving drums and blistering bass together in a tightly wound web that keeps the track from imploding. At the peak of noise the track does what the album proclaims: it swoons, falling backward into a free flowing Eno-esque soundscape.The albumcelebrates the intimacy and anonymity of getting lost in a sea of people or the swarm of the cityscape, Aubert says.
Like a community garden in Silversun City, Swoon creates spaces of introspection in the middle of chaos. For every grand concert hall built from a gentle string swell, like on “Catch and Release,” Swoon burns it down in a conflagration of noise, scorching with searing bass and growling guitar, as on “Panic Switch.”
“We have a psychotic relationship with our songs – we can’t have it too clean.
We have to fuck it up somehow,” Aubert declares.
In every city and in every town, there is a place where artists and musicians cook up projects over front porch beers and where late night garage jams turn into bands. These bands’ origins aren’t too different than Silversun Pickups’. But Aubert recognizes that there’s something different about the community that fostered them. “The feet of the band are on the soil where they live,” Aubert says.
Silversun Pickups pull their sound from the soil of their backyard, which reconciles frenzy with solitude; sprawl and the structure; and innovation with collaboration. “It can be lonely here, because the city is so disconnected,” Aubert explains, “but here you can also escape the noise of the city into your own house, your own private place.
But we’re all connected by community.”
And it is the community that holds Silversun Pickups in the palm of her hand.
www.myspace.com/silversunpickups
FREE 7" vinyl from MORAKESTRAFounders and key creative minds David and Will Mora are twin brothers who were proudly born and raised in the West Texas border city, El Paso, Texas. Fellow El Pasoan Jim Ward contributed to the rebirth of Morakestra via production and recording of the bands latest album, Witness to Connection, released June 2nd on indie label Stratking Records. A musical legend in El Paso, Ward founded post-hardcore innovators At the Drive-In, rock quintet Sparta and alt-country act Sleepercar. Witness to Connection is the first for Ward's new producing partnership with jack-of-all-trades musician and sound engineer Gabe Gonzalez, who is getting greater acclaim for his production work with bands like San Antonio's Girl in a Coma.
The twins took guitar lessons as children from local guitar legends Mario Otero and Charles Teitsworth, who pushed the boys towards honing original compositions into solid tunes. In early 2007, the Moras began recording their debut album Live from Moraq in Austin. An acclaimed line-up of session musicians contributed to the project, including Robert Palmer drummer Donnie Wynn, Eric Johnson's bass player Chris Maresh and the Tosca String Quartet. The brothers did all the guitar work and vocals themselves, also producing it on their own. Live from Moraq was released in Summer 2007,while the brothers continued to assemble an ever-revolving cast of musicians around them for live gigs. Word of mouth built up about "the twins who were dueling guitar players." Success with recording Morakestra's, Witness to Connection, was Gonzalez and Ward's expertise. "The guidance we gave them I dont think I can put into words ...that’s the intimate part of making a record with someone," says Ward. "I've had that experience as an artist with producers that I look up to. It's so much more than just music; you end up spending so much time together in close confines that it extends to a personal life. I want to leave younger bands with a more positive experience, be a positive role model "it's fun to be around that energy, that push of, "I'll do anything to get my music heard thing, because that inspires."
For while the subject matter of their songs is universal, the Morakestra sound is very much their own. Ward felt a felt a greater connection to the Moras' music beyond the city kinship. " They have interesting chords, which I like, and even though their voices are similar they're distinct enough to complement each other really well," he explains. Witness to Connection displays interesting guitar signatures, thunderous drums, and effective melodies. Drummer Daniel Gomez and Bassist Guillermo Vargas joined the Morakestra in post-production. They have played together in bands in the past and have a similar connection with the twins in time signature and musical structuring.
MCB-CONTRIBUTOR-PROFILES: Gene Schilling
time for another of our
Gene Schilling
contributes many of his killer concert photos to MCB, mostly from venues such as The Fillmore, St. Andrews, DTE, The Palace, etc. He's covered many national artists such as Green Day, BB King, Eminem, Coldplay, and Nickelback.
In addition to shooting shows for MCB, Gene also contributes to several publications, websites and wire services such as SPIN Magazine, LiveDaily, ZUMA Press, and the Canadian Press.
Yes, he is a Canadian, but don't hold that against him.
He knows his beers!
Check out Gene's work at http://musicimagesbygene.com
Gene is available for contract photography services including band promos, events, and gigs, and can be reached at info@imagesbygene.com
Downunder Detroit by Tall Kiwi Chick
TALL KIWI CHICK was a winner in one of our contests for free tickets
and of course we chatted it up a bit and met up with her and her crew at the show.
After knocking back a few cold ones we were fast friends and thick as thieves.
Anyway - we thought it would nice to get some insight about good ol dietroit
Anyway - we thought it would nice to get some insight about good ol dietroit
from someone with a bit different perspective so we created this column
She loves music, men & drinking
She loves music, men & drinking
"She's Sweet As!"
DOWNUNDER DETROITBY Tall Kiwi Chick
photos/sidekick coolness by Lauretta West
So on Friday (19th) night, Lauretta & I headed over to PJ's Lager House
to check out The Satin Peaches & The Drags.
Now i was the designated sober driver this cold winter night in Detroit... which thankfully doesn't happen very often, but it does happen...and so I thought i'd take full advantage of being stone cold sober and actually give my full attention to the bands!!
Although in saying that, i must admit i do have a short attention span.
I'm ADD untreated baby.
'Dooley Wilson' started just as we arrived, good timing on our part which we planned down to a tee. Untrue. Their chilled blues made me want to be down south chilling on a balcony somewhere drinking beer in the late afternoon sun enjoying the music.
*sigh*
'Karalavara' were up next, and the volume went up and so did the rock!
Then it was time to see 'The Drags' for the second time, although in fairness the first time, i'd had a few drinks and had to interview 'The Matt Truman Ego Trip' during most of their set. Luckily they played the same set, and although Justin was sick, you couldn't tell cos the show was awesome! I look forward to when they release an album. Maybe i'll score it free? *wink* Their music is easy to listen to and enjoy, and it doesn't take long before you're humming their tunes on the way out the door!!!
Finally The Satin Peaches took the stage to play
their new EP in it's entirety. Now i could only stay for the first 4 tracks, (it was nearing 2am and i had to still drive home, then wake up at 5am for a flight) but of what i heard, i liked!!
The only bone i have to pick with TSP is on their Facebook Invitation, they promised to supply us with a valentine... and i felt a little let down because that never happened... although come to think of it, maybe it's because i had to leave early...
And in their finale a whole bunch of paid hot tall male hookers erupted from the stage?
Or perhaps it was like an Easter Egg hunt, and I just didn't get the memo, and maybe i needed to search the whole bar for random valentines with 'V' written on their chests?
Boys, i'll accept an IOU *crosses fingers*.
The Satin Peaches have a release party for their new EP on March 19th at the Magic Bag in Ferndale. Be there, or flying monkeys might come and poke your eyes out...
Double bonus points awarded to Dave from the Drags for stepping up his game and buying both Lauretta & I drinks!! Andy offered, so he can have a point for the thought, but next time Andy, we'll take a Bud light..
Now i feel like i should be talking about something else that i've done recently that's interesting... but i'm coming up blank. I've been lazing around all week in Florida getting a tan and some well needed Vitamin D.
Sorry...
Next up we're going to be heading to the Metrotimes Blowout in Hamtramck.
I'm fully excited about going!!!
I'm heading over on the Wednesday & Friday nights, and hope to hook up with some hot bands for some interviews!!
FYI The Drags are playing during the Metrotimes Blowout in Hamtramck, on Thurs 4/3 @ The Baker's Streetcar at 11.40pm. Stop being so lazy and get yo ass there... you can do it!
Flat 151 - Grand Opening - Sat. 2-27
The Grand Opening of Flat 151
Saturday, February 27, 2010
Featuring DJ David B and DJ Matt A
Hosted By: D. Mix Entertainment and Steven Anthony Productions
• We are transforming this gorgeous 8,000 sq ft. loft on the 6th floor into the swankiest Saturday night spot Michigan has ever seen!
• It’s time for something new and exciting to be a part of every Saturday night…
• VIP Booth and Bottle Service are recommended to guarantee entry:
248.404.5999 or vip@dmixent.com
• For More Info Visit http://www.DMIXENT.com
• Valet Parking Available
Flat 151
151 W. Congress
Detroit, MI 48226
Saturday, February 27, 2010
Featuring DJ David B and DJ Matt A
Hosted By: D. Mix Entertainment and Steven Anthony Productions
• We are transforming this gorgeous 8,000 sq ft. loft on the 6th floor into the swankiest Saturday night spot Michigan has ever seen!
• It’s time for something new and exciting to be a part of every Saturday night…
• VIP Booth and Bottle Service are recommended to guarantee entry:
248.404.5999 or vip@dmixent.com
• For More Info Visit http://www.DMIXENT.com
• Valet Parking Available
Flat 151
151 W. Congress
Detroit, MI 48226
MCB-CONTRIBUTOR-PROFILES: "Wild Bill" Ketelhut
time for another of our
MCB CONTRIBUTOR PROFILES
where we feature the folks who are running the streets for MOTORCITYBLOG
where we feature the folks who are running the streets for MOTORCITYBLOG
Wild Bill writes the MCB weekly "Wild at Heart"
A few years ago as MCB was covering more and more ground
we kept running into "Wild Bill"
and after some wooing from the MCB girls
he hastily joined our team
Bill is one of the coolest guys around
knows everything there is to know about music and detroit
and hits more shows than the indiest of hipsters
Shown above with MCB's Tall Kiwi Chick
they don't call him "Wild Bill" for nothing
if you know what I'm saying
I, William R Ketelhut (aka Wild Bill) was born in the year 1969 which is known for Woodstock and Man On The Moon which explains my passion for music and science fiction/fact. I also share birthdays with Swedishfilm director Lukas Moodysson and DJ Tiesto, the Dutch trance DJ. I enjoy working with Motorcityblog since it gives me another outlet for talking about and sharing my passion with what goes on in the city of Detroit, including it's art, music, museums, theatre, sports and other events. I include a calendar of events I plan on attending in my calendar at www.myspace.com/wildatheart_13 and I would love for people to listen to my radio show on WXOU 88.3FM which can be heard online at www.wxou.org (currently on from 8-10AM on Saturday mornings with a variety of music and interviews - a list of past interviews is on my homepage). If you would like to share events or set up an interview for the blog or radioshow, contact me at doramu13@yahoo.com or 248-475-0808 and we'll see what we can set up.
I also have a long standing crush on Cyndi Lauper!!
Live Long And Prosper!!
Opening of New Islamic Art Gallery at Detroit Institute of Arts - Public opening Sunday, February 28
Opening of New Islamic Art Gallery at Detroit Institute of Arts
Public opening Sunday, February 28
Public opening Sunday, February 28
The Detroit Institute of Arts’ (DIA) long-anticipated new gallery
of Islamic art opens to the public on Sunday, Feb. 28 2010
The new gallery includes works of art from the Mediterranean region, the Middle East, Central Asia and India, and spans the 7th–early 20th centuries. Planning the gallery provided the opportunity to study the collection and to carry out conservation treatments and scientific analysis, which resulted in a new understanding of some works of art and the rediscovery of important objects that had remained unrecognized for decades. Among them are a very large, rare, early Ottoman mosque candlestick from around 1500, and a 15th-century Timurid cut-tile panel in the shape of a star.
The museum uses the term Islamic art to refer to works created in areas governed by Muslims and where Islamic culture has had significant influence. As Islamic art comes from a vast area that includes peoples of diverse cultures, languages, and faiths, both Christian and Jewish sacred manuscripts from the Islamic world will also be exhibited alongside exquisite Islamic manuscripts in an area devoted to sacred writings.
In addition to works from the DIA’s collection, the new gallery incorporates significant works of art on loan from nine public and private collections. Most of these are long-term loans to the DIA, but manuscripts from collections including the University of Michigan’s Special Collections Library will be rotated in regularly.
The Islamic galleries are arranged according to the thematic stories the art has to tell. These are expressed in seven major themes: The Silk Road; Masterpieces of Carpet Weaving; Art of the Great Empires: Ottoman, Safavid, and Mughal; The Medieval Islamic World: Urban Settings and Goods; Art of the Mamluks; Mediterranean Trade and Spanish Lusterware 1250–1500; and Sacred Writings from the Islamic World.
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In keeping with the museum’s visitor-centered approach, multi-layered labels and other interpretive devices will be interspersed in the galleries to help visitors engage with the art. Among these are an interactive “carpet-making” activity, a video of a master calligrapher at work, a large map of the areas represented and the popular Eye Spy labels.
The DIA began collecting Islamic art in the 1890s. Some of the most important masterpieces in the collection were acquired under Wilhelm Valentiner, director from the 1920s to the 1940s. These works include an exceptional Timurid Qur’an, a splendid enameled bottle made in Syria in the Mamluk period, the largest surviving 17th-century Ottoman velvet summer carpet in the world, and an exquisite, all-silk animal carpet probably made for the Safavid ruler, Shah Tahmasp (r. 1524-76).
Recent acquisitions include an impressive early Iznik blue and white charger from Ottoman Turkey, a Qur’an taken by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan from the library of the Uzbek ruler Nadhr Muhammad Khan in 1646, an unusual Mughal painting of mystics seated by a lake, and a small, personal Qur’an, copied by the Ottoman royal calligrapher Mehmed Rasim in 1730, which once belonged to Princess Nazimah Sultan.Visit http://www.dia.org/ for more details
-jr-MusicRevue 02/24/2010
Well it looks like a 2-fer Wed.
I'm going to delve into 2 national acts that will be visiting through or fair city in the coming months. So let's take a minute and visit their tunes!
-Yacht is a guy/girl duo art pop dance group from Portland. The opening of the record felt like an Of Montreal ripoff. As it progresses, the sound developed an 80s nostalgia feel. It borught back memories of films like License To Drive and Ferris Buelller's Day Off. Altogether, the record is pretty hit or miss. Some songs really stand out while others take an effort to listen to. What is interesting is Yacht formed as a duo but have recently rounded up a full band to tour with. With the record being heavily based in electronics and synths, I'm intrigued to see the transformation to a live setting. Yacht will be coming through Pontiac, Mi March 2nd and will be performing live at The Pike Room. You can find tickets here. To purchase a copy of See Mystery Lights click here.
-I have to admit, I was really anticpating the release of this cd. I always though Julian's solo effort would be the best off all The Strokes' solo efforts. How could it not be? He was the bandlead, the chief songwriter, and the driving force behind the band's overall sound. Phrazes For The Young was, just as with most of the other Strokes' solo projects, a let down. Mediocre at best, each song sound like a Strokes' B-Side where the guitars have been exchanged for guitars. With all that said, I'm happy the song "11th Dimension" was on it. This is the most catchy dance song I've heard in quite awhile. It is the song I have listened to most off this album. It shows there is still good songwritng to be had from The Strokes' foreman. Currently Julian is touring thorughout the US to support Phrazes For The Young and will be swinging through Detroit on April 5th at St Andrews Hall. To get tickets go here. To get a copy of Phrazes For The Young click here. I don't know about you but I'm can't wait for the new Strokes' album that is currently being recorded!!!
-jr
Twitter
Email
-jr is a musician/dj/blogger/writer from Detroit, MI. He performs in the band The Jesus Chainsaw Massacre and writes a cultural blog under the same moniker. When Dj'ing he uses the handle DJ JCM. He has been an integral part of the Detroit Music mechanation for the past 10 years. He knows just about everything about music on both a local and national level. His opinon is gold and is infallible.
2/23/10
The_Zone_ORIGIX - 2/24/2010
The Zoneby Origix
(February 24,2010)
Shaun Vega and Skillitean have what some duos just do not have, what is it you ask?
Natural Chemistry; one would think they have been a group for years but that is not the case. They have known each other for some years now through mutual connects and
they knew the day would come that they would work together on what was supposed to be an S.Vega’s solo album “Hate it or love it”. After constructing and recording a couple tracks that Skillitean produced and was featured on, they decided to combine forces. S.Vega say’s “The vibe is great when we are in the studio working. Skilla is on my heels about different thing’s I say and how I put my words together, and I’m the same way about his flow as well as his beats”.
The Album, “Hate it or Love it” is a tribute to the critics who felt they should have gone a different direction with the album content, but these Michigan Natives will not conform to the norm. “If a track is banging it draws my attention right off, the muscle in my brain just starts to spaz out and I’m on the pad or flowing half bars out loud until I get to a pen and paper”, Vega explains. From doing their own thing in music to hooking up together to do this project they are far from done pushing each others limits .Visit www.myspace.com/skillitean and www.myspace.com/shaunvega16bars. See them live this Saturday February 27th at Simons After Dark in Allen Park.
The Zone Radio with Origix & DC airs Mondays 9 p.m.-12 a.m. 89.3 FM, stream at whfr.fm Visit 2raw4fm.com
PHOTOS: Yes - 2/20/2010 @ the SoundBoard
Last Saturday night, prog-rock legends Yes put on a great show for a crowd of die-hard fans. Including 3 original members and featuring new musicians on lead vocals and keys, the current lineup did justice to the bands extensive catalog (and yes, they did play "I've Seen All Good People," and it was awesome, and chances are, you weren't there).
MCB's Andrew Bender was at the Motor City Casino's premier music venue to get harassed by fans and staff alike and snap a few photos - check 'em out:
MCB's Andrew Bender was at the Motor City Casino's premier music venue to get harassed by fans and staff alike and snap a few photos - check 'em out:
PHOTOS: N'Dambi at WGPR Listener Appreciation Party
Last Friday, Detroit's R&B station WGPR hosted a listener appreciation party at the PI Banquet Hall in Southfield. Featuring soul Diva N'Dambi, the party was well-attended by soul and R&B loving Detroiters dressed for a night on the town. MCB's Drew Bender was on the scene to take in the action - check out a few of his photos below:
Detroit Independent Film Festival - Panel Discussion : 3/7, Burton Theater, Detroit
PANEL DISCUSSION: The Strategies, Pitfalls and Politics of Film Festivals
DETROIT INDEPENDENT FILM FESTIVAL
BURTON THEATRE • 3420 CASS AVENUE • DETROIT
SUNDAY • MARCH 7 2010 • 2:00-3:00 PM
HOSTED BY CONNIE MANGILIN
MITTEN MOVIE PROJECT CURATOR
(photographer : Riaz K)
PANELISTS INCLUDE MIKE MADIGAN, ROBERT JOSEPH BUTLER, CHUCK GRADY & SUZANNE JANIK
Join Mitten Movie Project Curator, Connie Mangilin, as she hosts a panel on the strategies, pitfalls and politics of film festivals. This film festival panel will take place at the Burton Theatre (3420 Cass Avenue, Detroit, MI 48201) on Sunday, March 7, 2010, from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. as part of the Detroit Independent Film Festival.
Panel topics include:
• How to avoid being rejected by film festivals (what to do in preproduction) – By Connie Mangilin
• Which festivals to submit to – By Mike Madigan
• Getting into festivals – By Mike Madigan & Robert Joseph Butler
• What to do when there (how to make the most of the experience) – By Mike Madigan & Chuck Grady
• How to run a film festival – By Connie Mangilin & Suzanne Janik
There will also be a Q&A with panelists.
Local film fest veterans Mike Madigan, Robert Joseph Butler, and Chuck Grady give helpful insights into how to wisely choose which film festivals to submit to, how to make the most of your time and money when submitting to film fests, having realistic expectations going in, and what to bring, who to talk to, and where to find these people when at film festivals.
Tickets are $5, which includes a screening of "Official Rejection," a documentary feature following the exploits of a group of filmmakers as they take their independent feature, “Ten “til Noon” along the film festival circuit. “Official Rejection” will screen at 12:15 p.m. on March 7th at the Burton Theatre with the film fest discussion to follow immediately afterwards.
Film festival organizers, Connie Mangilin (Mitten Movie Project) and Suzanne Janik (Detroit-Windsor International Film Festival, Ferndale Film Festival), lay out the do’s and don’ts of running film festivals, including how to get submissions, how to market your festival, and how to set up festival rules and procedures.
Attendees are invited to bring flyers, postcards, business cards, posters, headshots, and other promo material. There will be a table for laying out swag.
Festivalgoers are also invited to bring their cue sticks and to play billiards in the Burton Theatre mens bathroom! Dinner and drinks (and the best jukebox in Detroit) at The Bronx Bar (4476 Second Avenue, Detroit 48201) after the panel discussion.
For more information:
Detroit Independent Film Festival • detroitindiefest.com
Mitten Movie Project • www.facebook.com/mittenmovieproject
Official Rejection • officialrejectiondocumentary.com
Burton Theatre • burtontheatre.com