Tour Dates: Nonpoint to hit Grand Rapids, Traverse City and Flint : 2/26 - 2/28

Nonpoint is headed back on the road for 40+ dates supporting Cold.

• February 26th Flint , MI – Machine Shop
• February 27th Grand Rapids , MI – The Orbit Room
• February 28th Traverse City , MI – Ground Zero

About Nonpoint

One of the notable bands to break through the South Florida metal scene of the late 1990’s, Nonpoint was formed in January of 1998.

Known as one of the most powerful, chaotic and brutal bands to destroy a rock stage, Nonpoint has an extensive tour history and a solid reputation. They have toured with major music heavyweights such as Mudvayne, Sevendust, Skindred, Disturbed, Drowning Pool and Buckcherry.

The band began the process of writing and recording a new album in May 2009. They have been recording in a new studio and Rivera describes it as a “different atmosphere” and explains that it’s “never a mistake to go to new surroundings.” Their music has been taken to another level and Rivera believes that “it’s the little things that are making these songs have a new life.”

Voting Launches TODAY for DIA & Let's Save Michigan Poster Contest

Twenty-five Finalists Selected for Poster Campaign to Inspire Citizens to Revive Michigan

Voting launches today for the Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA) and Let's Save Michigan Poster Contest at letssavemichigan.com/posters. Judges selected 60 finalists from more than 300 entries of posters created for the purpose of inspiring Michiganders to revive their state.
The posters are part of Let's Save Michigan's goal to rally Michigan citizens to create livable and desirable communities that will position the state’s economy for a better future.

Voting will close on March 15. Let's Save Michigan will announce the winner, who will be awarded $1,000, on the site on March 16. The runner-up will receive $250. Third through fifth place will receive a membership to DIA.

Throughout March, the posters of the 60 finalists will be on display in the lobby of Detroit’s historic Fisher Building, 3011 West Grand Boulevard.


“The best part of the contest has been seeing so many creative ways people have depicted the assets and actions that will transform Michigan’s cities, from transit to urban farming and so much more," said Sean Mann, founder of Let's Save Michigan. “Also, we were originally going to select only 25 finalists, but DIA was so impressed with the entries that we now have 60 finalists.”

Click here to see the 60 finalists and to VOTE!

About Let's Save Michigan

Let’s Save Michigan is fighting to take ownership of our state’s future. A grassroots campaign, Let's Save Michigan is inspiring Michiganders to advocate and get informed about legislation and policies that will create more livable and desirable cities and urban spaces. The goal is to build the types of communities that will attract, retain and foster the talented workforce necessary for Michigan to be an economic powerhouse again.
http://www.letssavemichigan.com

On Twitter
On Facebook

FREE Metro Times Blowout tickets from Evans & English of Something Like A War (SLAW)

"Every year at the earliest hint of spring

a music festival like no other rises from the dirty snow banks of Hamtramck

to deliver a message of hope and peace throughout a stricken city"

WAIT...WTF is that all about?

Hi - this is Evans & English from SLAW

and we are here to let you know that we will be attending

Metro Times Blowout this year

along with a bunch of the other MCB photographers

PLUS we have a few MT Blowout Bracelets to give away

Its going on Wed-Sat March 3rd - 6th 2010

The kickoff party is at The Majestic Complex on Wednesday

and the rest takes place over the next 3 days

at 15 joints in Hamtramck

with live music from over 200 local detroit bands

Look for our picks next week

and get all the info you need to attend Metro Times Blowout

HERE

"Evans - you forgot to give away the free bracelets

that get you into all the venues and the kick off party for free"

"Oh yeah - email us at MOTORCITYBLOG@earthlink.net

for your chance to win these awesome freebies"

"If you do not win you can donate blood for blowout tix

as MT Blowout has partnered with Red Cross"

Check it out here

Traverse City Comedy Arts Festival 2/19-2/21

The Inaugural Traverse City Comedy Arts Festival was a huge success! Michael Moore and Jeff Garlin collaborated and put together a great line-up of comedians, featuring headliner Roseanne Barr. Also performing: Jeff Garlin, Whitney Cummings, JB Smoove, and numerous other comics.

It was a great weekend event in Traverse City. It has been announced that it will be an annual event that will surely bring top-tier comedians to the Second Annual Traverse City Comedy Arts Festival!

-More Photos by Dan Sultana-

Free Twiztid Tickets on The Zone Radio

Monday February 22 and 28th make sure you have The Zone Radio on at 89.3 Detroit , Stream audio at Live @ www.whfr.fm for your chance to win free Twiztid tickets for their Clutch Cargo Date on April 9th in Pontiac, MI.

Wild At Heart

Wild Bill Ketelhut provides the "blog" to this anti-blog
He has a radio program on WXOU out of Oakland University

Wild At Heart

Spending the day snowed in which I hate. Had a lot of important things to do today which are getting delayed or put off do to this snow which doesn't seem to want to stop. When I got home last night from Cyril Neville show at Callahan's last night around midnight it was nice and clear only to awaken to the sound of plows this morning. Ah yes, winter is back. BTW, Cyril rocked the joint along with his wife on vocals and his son doing percussion. I have seen both his brother Aaron solo and him performing with the Neville Brothers but this was by far the best of the bunch. The band was tight and played a nice mixture of blues combined with other styles like Calypso and jazz. If he comes back around, these is an all around great performance. The Martina McBride show also has a special guestat the Palce last Thursday as Kid Rock came out to perform a song with her and ended the show on a real high note as he sang his hit "All Summer Long". Too bad for those that left early to beat traffic. That is why I always stay until the end for shows because anything could happen. For years I have been wanted Kid Rock to show up at a concert and perform. he does it enough but I have always missed out. Like the time he was back stage for Sam Roberts Band at St Andrews and I could see him but it was a no go for hitting the stage. Or when Bob Segar played those 4 shows at the Palace. Kid showed up for one of the shows I wasn't at. I also saw him when he introduced Jay Leno but he didn't perform that night. Thanks Kid for finally showing up!


I wrote about the play "August: Osage County" and how it ties into the Ringwald Theatre so it was only fitting I ended up at the Ringwald this weekend for their newest production, the musical "[title of show]". The show is interesting because the musical documents its own creation by two Broadway fans, Jeff Bowen and Hunter Bell, who want to enter the New York Musical Theatre Festival. Bowen and Bell, determined to write an original musical rather than adapt a play or movie to be a musical, discovered almost immediately that their conversations about what to write were more interesting than the ideas they were coming up with for an original show. The production follows the team's struggle to complete the show in three and a half weeks with the help of their two actress friends. The show does go from festival to a run at the Vineyard Theatre to off-Broadway to being a Tony-nominated Broadway show. And now it comes to the Ringwald. I am almost surprised this show actually hit Broadway but sometimes being quirky and the right set of circumstances can produce miracles. The show which was written by friends seem perfect for the Ringwald which always seems a very close-knit group and even newcomer Allyson Ortwein (Heidi) seems to fit right in. That friendship really brings the bonding moments of the story together and provides a much needed spark when I feel the material is not up to snuff. I admit the songs aren't very memorable though most are very clever and Allyson and Jamie Richards (Jeff) are the vocal stars here while Joe Plambeck (Hunter) and Jamie Warrow (Susan) provide most of the comic timing. The show itself is unique in that it is also changing constantly as it's history changes which makes it admirable. The Ringwald has taken this play and given it life in their own way. Fans of the Ringwald will enjoy this production greatly as well as theatre fans looking for something different. My grade is a B-. For more information 248-545-5545 or www.whowantscaketheatre.com.





Also Who Wants Cake? (Ringwald Theatre) is sounding a call for new, original one-act plays to be performed as part of their new Gay Play Series (GPS). As the Detroit-area’s newest short play festival, the GPS Festival is striving to provide early-career writers the opportunity to see their work produced, giving them what is oft-needed exposure. Go to the website for more info - www.whowantscaketheatre.com

Aspiring comedians are in luck. the Go Comedy! Improv Theater has announced that it will hold general auditions for its launch group, resident company understudies, and future productions on Saturday, March 6, 2010. Auditions will take place at Go Comedy! Improv Theatre at 261 East Nine Mile Road in Ferndale. Interested applicants must call the Go Comedy! box office at (248) 327-0575 to schedule an audition time. Auditions will be by group and entirely improvised. Prepared material is discouraged and will not be accepted. Previous improvisation experience or education is encouraged.

Looking for a new car with an interesting history? Film fans and car aficionados will have the chance to own a unique piece of movie memorabilia from one of the Best Picture nominees when "Variety – The Children’s Charity of Southern California" next week begins hosting the online auction of the 1966 Dodge Coronet used in Focus Features and Working Title Films’ "A Serious Man". The film is nominated for two Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Original Screenplay (Joel & Ethan Coen). The auction will be live at www.eBay.com/varietyskids, starting Monday, February 21, 2010 and end Thursday, March 4, 2010 – right before the Oscars. Proceeds from the auction will go to help inspire hope, enrich lives and build a better future for the children in need in Southern California .


For concerts, there is not a lot of choices early on but their are a ton of events happening this weekend, not to mention the 10th Anniversary of the 'Boondock Saints' @ the Crofoot on Feb 24th with writer/director Troy Duffy and actors David Della Rocco, Bob Marley, Brian Mahoney and Bob Rubin.

Wednesday (2/24) Frankie D'Angelo fresh off his WinterBlast appearance plays at country night @ Memphis Smoke, Alexander Zonjic and friends jazz it up @ Santino's (Washington TWP)

Thursday (2/25) Irish folk based group The Guggenheim Grotto @ the Ark, Silverghost opens for Casiotone for the Painfully Alone @ Pike Room, Marco Polio & the New Vaccines and the Jesus Chainsaw Massacre perform at motorcityrocks.com benefit show @ PJ's Lager House

Friday (2/26) Jim McCarty and Mystery Train will be rocking @ Callahan's, local bands Child Bite and Terrible Two's @ Magic Stick, energetic Manna And Quail headline a local music show @ Pike Room, Otep brings music mayhem @ Harpos, United Artits Benefit 4 Life has Amp Fiddler and other @ Music Hall Jazz Cafe (Benefits COTS and Wyclef Jean's Yele Haiti Earthquake Relief Fund), Ty Stone and the Orbitsuns hold Autorama after party @ Hard Rock Cafe

Saturday (2/27) local favorites Sponge @ the Majestic, post-hardcore band Saosin plays @ the Shelter, 80's rockers .38 Special performs @ Machine Shop, Real Detroit has their birthday bash featuring ICP and Sponge along with Critical Bill/Catfish Mafia/Satin Peaches etc @ Majestic Theatre, the Exotic Poetry & Music Festival kicks off with a bunch of performers including Emily Rose and Audra Kubat @ Corktown Tavern

Sunday (2/28) Chicago folk singer Joe Pug opens for Americana singer Justin Townes Earle @ Magic Stick, reggae sensation Michael Franti & Spearhead open for John Mayer @ Palace Of Auburn Hills

Band of the week: This week I have decided to go with a band that has big ties to rock overseas and with sci-fi themes but is little known in the US despite launching the career of one of the best known metal legends of all time. Hawkwind formed in 1969 by singer/songwriter/guitarist Dave Brock a mere 10 months after I was born. There music has a big sound with great riffs that influenced later bands such as Ministry, Monster Magnet, the Sex Pistols (who covered "Silver Machine"), Joy Division and Henry Rollins of Black Flag. They have recorded over 20 albums and are best known for lauching the career of Lemmy who left the band in 1975 to start his band "Motorhead" (named after a Hawkwind song) and also collaborations with notable fantasy and science fiction writer Michael Moorcock. Among the most famous ex-members of the band are Arthur Brown and ex-Cream drummer Ginger Baker. Hawkwind stills plays random shows to this day but unfortunately not on this side of the Atlantic.





Have a good week and drive carefully in the snow.

PHOTOS: Patti Smith at St. Andrews Hall 02.19.10 by LAWRENCEcreative

Patti Smith at St. Andrews Hall

Detroit, MI

02.19.10

I put in the request to shoot the iconic Patti Smith for her return trip to Detroit. Having just released a new book entitled, Just Kids, about her relationship with Robert Mapplethorpe (photographer) and being an artist in New York City in the late Sixties and Seventies, Patti has been traveling around doing book signings and stage shows to support it.

Knowing the historical significance of her existence in terms of art, photography and music, especially with her relevance to Detroit, (having lived her for a time in St. Clair Shores and being married to Fred “Sonic” Smith of the MC5) I felt it necessary to capture her in her element. Joining her were her two children Jesse and Jackson. Jackson plays bass in Patti’s band and Jesse opened the show with her partner in what I would term an “amplified keyboard/xylophone instrumentational jam session”. Uhm, yeah. Definitely unexpected on my part.

Being one of three photogs given access to the show, we were allowed 3 songs to shoot, until, that is, the bouncers decided to come thru and vacate us after 2 songs. Having eaten a few Tough Guy sandwiches (PBR’s, that is) prior to the show next door at Sophie and Steve Francis’ cozy little bar, I voiced my dissatisfaction with this action to the rather large individual, as were the other photogs (Metro Times guy and some old guy…I’m horrible with names), and proceeded out of the pit area. As I headed out, Patti decided to stop her song, and make the following announcement the only way Patti could:

“I would like to suggest… that all the photographers… take a powder…

and just relax.”

to which all the crowd starts yelling and screaming and cheering in support of the Punk Rock Godmother. As I meagerly made my way back to the soundboard area, everyone just gave me shit cuz I had a camera. I didn’t even protest that much. Anyways, this kinda ticked me off and I was ready to go back to the bar. Well, something inside said “stay’, and I am glad I did. Aside from my bruised ego, Patty puts on one hell of a damn good show, filled with power, passion and protest. Here’s a breakdown of the rest of the nights performance:

'All the People Who Died' -Jim Carol tribute

Ran into the beautiful Gwen Joy and the equally iconic

and talented Mark Arminski

Patti continued her androginous look by wearing jeans, tshirt and black blazer

Went on a diatribe about her "damn hit song", ‘Because The Night’, and how the lyrics, "…have a doubt..the ring...telephone…" refer to awaiting for Fred ‘Sonic’ Smiths phone call for a meeting back in the day.

‘Jesus Died For Someone’s Sins’ and the anthemic crowd-screaming-fist-pumping ‘G.L.O.R.I.A’...

‘People Have The Power’-antiestablishment anthem, crowd screaming lyrics.

Smokey Robinson encore, ‘Tracks of My Tears’

“Fill the streets...Detroit...you are fucking great!!!!!!”

‘Rock and Roll Nigger’ as the encore. ‘nuff said.

And she left us all with these memorable words…

"Fuck ‘em all but don't abandon your city!"

A memorable night, to say the least. Thanks, Patti, for the words of wisdom.

FREE TICKETS - VINYL - CD: Snow day gets you freebis from Cage the Elephant - St Andrews Detroit 3/16

So luckily this morning we were listening to our WEATHERALERT

(super vintage NOAA farband weather radio)

and we knew things were going to get bad

so we declared an MCB Snow Day

and worked on getting some freebies to give away

so here is your chance to win another set of tickets vinyl CD

from

CAGE THE ELEPHANT

who play St Andrews Hall Detroit

on March 16th

enter to win

motorcityblog@earthlink.net

and get your tickets here

http://www.livenation.com/venue/saint-andrews-hall-tickets

Photos by Riaz K : Verona Red / National Ghost @ Memphis Smoke, Royal Oak

Fun times were had all around at the Memphis Smoke last Friday where the crowd was being wowed by live performances by Verona Red and National Ghost.

Memphis Smoke is known to house quality rock and blues acts on the weekends, but it's obvious they're trying to shake things up a bit.

There were a few technical issues that had to be dealt with before the night started. Then National Ghost opened for Verona Red without their lead singer, who apparently had more pressing concerns to contend with, like getting his appendix removed - no joke. Visiting us from Chicago, was Verona Red, who's take on electronic - rock is unusual for those that frequent Memphis Smoke - but is definitely something this town can use more of.

Although I am a big sucker for quality Blues, the sound that these two bands brought with them was actually a welcome change - more contemporary, to say the least!

UPCOMING: New Exhibition - Cyrus Karimipour at Robert Kidd Gallery 3/6

Cyrus Karimipour - Recent Photographic Works
March 6 – April 10, 2010

 

Cyrus Karimipour's photographs are imbued with a formal elegance…

the nuance and innate mystery Karimipour creates draws the viewer instantly into his world.

These works transcend convention and become a synthesis of collage and photography.

It is absolutely crucial in a picture to stimulate sophisticated movement in the viewer's eye,

while evoking intrigue beyond the platitudes of subject matter. In such respects, Karimipour is masterful.

Please join us for an Opening Reception, Saturday, March 6^th from 5-8pm.

Robert Kidd Gallery

107 Townsend Street
Birmingham, MI 48009
Tel. (248) 642-3909
www.robertkiddgallery.com

 

­­

Anthony Retka / Justin Petrusak @ Anton Art Center - Feb. 20th, 2010

By Krazy K
Motor City Blogger

I've been to Mt. Clemens many times. It kind of reminds me of Pontiac, but with more life and friendlier police(trust me).

There's a building in Mt. Clemens called the Anton Art Center which is right behind the more popular Emerald Theater. It's always intrigued me because of it's unique architecture, mixing what looks like an old church with a modern office building, seamlessly built together.

And on Saturday night, February 20th, I finally got to go inside. I was there for Anthony Retka's "Empire" CD release, which also starred Justin Petrusak, reading his formidable and undeniably emotional poetry.

The event was organized by SANAP (Serious Artists No Attitude Please), a fantastic artist promotion organization, led by Matthew Wisotsky.

Justin opened the night with to an already full house, standing room only, which I've never actually seen at a poetry reading. What a great sight. He is one of the most digestible poets I've heard, meaning that even the most "average" listener will be able to follow his thoughts and words. His speaking skills are also among the best I've seen, truly putting emotion into each phrase.

Anthony Retka, an acoustic singer-songwriter, was headlining the event. His new CD, titled "Empire" is sure to please anyone that can tolerate dynamic, original talent(garage rock scenesters need not apply). His seemingly simplistic guitar work is masterfully nuanced to suit a wonderfully refined voice. A silent room only furthered the respect he garners.



On a side note...I'm against RUN-ON BLOGS.

RUN-ON BLOG = Blabbing about events or things that have nothing to do with the events you're writing about. Mostly consisting of self-indulgent, useless topics that have little or no pertinence to anything worthwhile.

That concludes my Run-on Blog.

2010 Detroit Autorama - Feb 26 - 28

Admission * 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 * At O’Reilly Auto Parts: * General Admission – $ 15.00 * Children 6-12 – $4.00
Features & Special Sections

* Drag City USA exhibit presented by Milan Dragway featuring:
o Connie Kalitta's '67 "Bounty Hunter"
o Don "The Snake" Prudhomme's '70 ""Wynns Winder"
o "Big Daddy" Don Garlits' '60 "Swamp Rat III" '62 "Swamp Rat IV" & '66 "Swamp Rat VIII"
* Builder/Owner of the Year Chuck Miller
o Featuring the '71 Corvette Wagon, '47 Ford Woody, '57 Isetta, '32 Ford Hi-Boy, Bunker Baron Golf Kart, Zinger Van & "Color Mr. Gone" Dodge, Red Baron, Zinger Semi
* Cavalcade of Kustoms
* Tony Pedregon's NHRA Top Fuel Funny Car
* 70th Anniversary of the '40 Ford Exhibit
* Hot Rod Heritage Fine Art Exhibit
* 16th Annual Toyarama
* 2010 Autorama Preservation Award Recipient
o Don Morton's Clark-Kaiser Thunderbird
* Ohio Tech College "Fuel Your Future Tour" Live Airbrush Demonstrations
o Featuring airbrush artist Richard Markham
o "The Devil's Ride" - "Pumping Iron" - "ICE Car"
o Scholarships Awards & Giveaways
o Saturday - Free airbrush tattoos & the Airbrush Artist Showdown
“Motor City Mavens” Auto Art Panel Jam & Charity Auction (Benefiting Leader Dogs for the Blind presented by WRIF’s “Drew and Mike”)

Autorama Extreme 1953 featuring Traditional Rods, Customs and Bobber Bikes
+ Pin Up Girl Contest – Saturday 5:00 PM
+ Rockabilly Bands including:
# Graveside Manner: Friday 6:00 & 8:00
# Swingin' Demons: Saturday 12:00, 3:00, Sunday 3:00 & 4:00
# Twistin Taratulas: Saturday 2:00, 4:00, Sunday 12:00 & 3:00

89X presents Tuner Galleria
featuring Imports, Euros, JDM & High Performance Vehicles

o Friday 4:00-9:00 - Poker Challenge and Photos with your favorite model in the VIP Lounge
o 9:00 - Autorama Extreme Fashion Show featuring the girls of Prestigious Models
o Saturday 3:00-10:00 - Autographs & Photo Sessions with Prestigious Models plus Karaoke
o Sunday 12:00-5:00 - Autographs & Photos with Prestigious Models plus Karaoke & Poker

Special Guest Appearances

* Guest appearances are a feature of the show for scheduled times. Admission does not guarantee an autograph.
* Connie Kalita - Drag Racing Legend
o Saturday 2:00-4:00
* Brenda Song - "London" from "The Suite Life of Zack and Cody"
o Saturday 1:00-4:00 & 7:00-9:00
* Jake T. Austin - "Max Russo" from "Wizards of Waverly Place"
o Sunday 12:00 - 5:00
* Henry Winkler - "The Fonz" from "Happy Days" (charges for autographs)
o Friday 6:00-9:00 Saturday 12:00-4:00 & 6:00-9:00 Sunday 12:00-4:00
* Pete Chapouris - Hot Rod Legend from So-Cal Speed Shop
o Friday - Saturday - Sunday in the So-Cal booth
* Spongebob Squarepants, Patrick, Dora The Explorer & Diego
o Friday 5:00-8:00, Saturday 10:00-7:00, Sunday 12:00-5:00

Funk in the Trunk: Street Couture Fashion Show - Mar 23

PHOTOS: The Candles in Detroit

The Candles is Josh Lattanzi’s first solo project, encapsulating the varied styles and influences he’s picked up while recording and touring with the likes of Ben Kweller, Albert Hammond, Jr. (The Strokes) and the Lemonheads, to mention just a few. MCB was there to see Josh and co. at the Majestic Cafe in Detroit. Thanks for stopping by!

Wild At Heart weekend special

Wild Bill Ketelhut provides the "blog" to this anti-blog
He has a radio program on WXOU out of Oakland University

Wild At Heart

The main reason I'm writing this blog today is to promote a wonderful theatrical production down at the Fisher Theatre this weekend. Playing today and tomorrow, "August: Osage County" plays a limited run here in Detroit and impressed me greatly. Written by Tracy Letts (the same guy who was written 2 recent Ringwald productions, 'Killer Joe' and 'Bug', which are some of my favorite plays in recent memory), the play centers on the reunion of the Weston family soon after the disappearance of their father Beverly. The play starts with Beverly hiring a young Native American woman to help around the house. At this stage we learn he has issues with alcohol and his wife has cancer and is relying heavily on pills. We are given some hints to the hidden demons in the house which are soon realized after he disappears and his three daughters with their families return to help in the search. The plays deals with many serious issues such as family dysfunction drug abuse, generational change, alcoholism, generational changedeath, incest, infidelity and many more as we see what years of lack of communication can bring to the forefront. However when all is said and done, the play is tied together ultimately by love in it's many forms. This is not the feel good play of the year as some things are too broken to be fixed, but it stays in touch with the complexities of family life, both the good and the bad. A powerhouse play that won the 2008 Tony for best drama which is very richly deserved. I'm glad this play made it too Detroit and I hope people go out and support it. Oner of the 5 best plays to have hit Detroit in the past 5 years. My grade is a A+. The plays features the wonderful Estelle Parsons who is best known as the Roseanne's mom in the hit TV show "Roseanne" but she has the distinction of also being the first woman to do reporting for a TV network as she was an original member of NBC's "Today Show" though the show is stolen by Shannon Cochran as the eldest daughter Beverly. If you miss this play, you will be sorry.





Went to see the new Martin Scorsese flick this week entitled "Shutter Island" in hopes that it would be as great as his recent films but I must admit to being disappointed. The movie is set in 1954 and two US Marshalls, Teddy Daniels (Leonardo DiCaprio) and Chuck Aule (Mark Ruffalo), go to Shutter Island to investigate the disappearance of a patient from a hospital for the criminally insane. Teddy has an alternative aganda on the island as he wants to expose what he believes are some secrets of human experiements run by the doctors. The marshall's run into trouble when they are deceived by the hospital's chief administrator Dr John Cawley (Ben Kingsley) as well as a massive hurricane which decmates the island. Their is a twist in the movie which reminds me of the the play "Mindgames" (currently playing at Meadowbrook Theatre) where we are allowed to doubt if anyone is really who they say they are in the movie. Is Teddy really a US Marshall or a delusional mental patient at the hospital? Now, I do like movies that play games with reality but this movie tends to be about 1/2 hour too long in getting to the conclusion. Maybe I'm just jaded that this movie's plot is so similar to the play which I just recently saw or that the 138 minute run time just seems to take forever to get to a point. The ending is up for discussion between you and your friends, but don't be surprised if you find this thriller less thrilling than expected. My grade is a C-.



Lastly, I would like to bring up the Census. It is very important that everyone fills out the Census forms when they come in the mail next month, esp if you live in communities like Detroit or Pontiac. There is still some testing going on for some temporatry positions but you better act fast if interested. In Oakland County they are ramping down and consolidating testing sessions. There is the risk they could stop testing at any time, so interested job seekers should call 1-866-861-2010 right away if you think this is something you want to pursue. Next week is the last week for testing as it stands now.

Something Like A War (SLAW) by John Kalogerakos (Hustler Strip Club and Detroit Dirty Show)

Enjoy this weeks edition of SLAW with your new cartoon favorites

Evans and English

As the boys hit the strip club and then The Dirty Show

Read more about Something Like A War creator John Kalogerakos here

NEXT WEEK:

Evans & English discuss

the Hamtramck Blowout 2010

Bringing it to the Children in Detroit: MONEYPENNY reviews "WEAREDIOS" - Photos by Kelli Hayden

So, anyways...

I was poking around at Buddyhead.com recently, bragging about being bored...and as a reward for opening my big mouth I was given an album to review by Mr. Keller himself. How generous! Within minutes I was immersed in new tunes from Hawthorne, CA natives DIOS.

Their third release following a four year break, this was my first Dios experience and I had no idea what to expect. Right away I had to turn it up to figure out what the hell was going on. My raised eyebrow was quickly replaced with a smile, and then back again. It took me a few listens to digest and appreciate.

The album twists and curls through the decades with it's roots in Zombie-esque 60's rock. Laden with guitar skill, The Beatles, Beach Boys and Bowie all seem to be influences with plenty of electronic nuance mixed in and an obvious reference to Devo. Even early Beck isn't a stretch. As I listened again, I heard Dandy Warhol-ish, Flaming Lips flavored bits. If you close your eyes you can almost see the naked flower children floating through a warped adventure. Amidst all the groovy, there is a haunted, underwater sound that runs throughout the album that keeps the silliness in check. Bizarre noises and voices from another room give it a dream-like quality. It sounds like Lucy in the Sky & Major Tom threw a party...and Goon Moon crashed it.

The slow, trippy beginning gives way to some sing-a-long worthy tunes fit for any car trip. Ojay and No is Wrong will have anyone who's not too cool to let themselves go sing with abandon (when no one else is within earshot). Toss My Cookies is indulgently strange. Tracks like Stare at Wheel and Ay Don Wanu Meri Yu show the talent and charm of the band, but the slap-happy romance ends there and a somber note finishes the album. O Don Fil Baad seems to be an ode to awkwardness, ending with Et Weel Fil Gud; a delightful song about
the mercy of death.

The sounds may be more sophisticated than the lyrics. I copiously offered myself to a theme, and was offered an ice cream sandwich in return. Riddle me that one? There is probably something deeper going on here and I'm just too much of a clod to get it. And probably so are you. This does not detract from the fun.
Just go with it.

This album did not make me shake my ass, but it did get me to sing along. It can take you somewhere else. It goes well with certain refreshments. And it has just enough weirdness to make you feel smart when you play it for your friends.
Don b efrey du die, right?

But wait...there's more! In true Moneypenny style, I managed to get the inside scoop from the 2/16/10 album release party at the Troubadour in LA from the endlessly-talented photographer Miss Kelli Hayden. She was invited to shoot the show and has graciously given me her photos and story to share with you:

"At first it felt like a Hollywood hipster elite kind of gathering at the legendary Troubadour, but really it was just cool kids who like free music from cool bands in cool cities. Joel Morales (vocals) stepped up to the mic and asked if the Lakers won. Someone in the audience shouted out "We won!" and someone else answered back "Who cares!?". As they began their set, I realized right away that this is the kind of band you NEED to see live; you can't just pop in the album and "get it". In order to get it, you should really see their set in person, most definitely in an intimate setting and enjoy it with drug/drink of choice. For "theatrical enhancements" they added a projector with colored liquid on a plate that projected the liquid swishing around onto a black background behind them. Trippy. I've seen artsy avant-garde musical types doing the projection thing before. I'm not knocking it. It usually works well and makes the entire atmosphere feel "hip", edgy and psychedelic, depending on content. Hey, it works for desert rockers Gram Rabbit. You either connect with it, or you just don't. Connections vary.

I had previewed their new album and past work prior to shooting the show and already knew that it's not heavy and edgy, but you get the reassuring reminder that this is a band that prefers to play in the shadows, as they were only slightly illuminated with nothing but red lighting. This of course is not to be misunderstood as "boring", but rather mellow and tame on the ears as well as the eyes and definitely classified as interesting. Their music is a wild, vibrant mixture of 1970's - 1990's alternative rock bands. Led Zeppelin to Bowie to Beck and back. A real musical smoothie with LSD for the ears. So if they're ever in you're neck of the woods, go on....take a sip. These people totally know their shit and how to express their non-descriptive creativity. They put their thoughts and ideas into tunes and often project visuals. Needless to say, I get it. I'm with it and I'll be with it again whenever they play in LA area again soon."

- Kelli Hayden

khayden.com




This band will fuckin write a song for you for 150 bucks! For a reasonable fee, they will play in your backyard. I'm already thinking about the endless applications for this. Buy WEAREDIOS and other possibilities directly from the band here:

http://www.wearedios.com/


I say: If you can imagine the loveliness of Oasis (with a little less pop), the profoundness of Kid A (but a little less depressing), the bizarro of Ween (but a little less annoying) and still be intrigued, then this is well worth the peanuts for the download. It's music you can analyze for hours on a journey that doesn't have to leave your living room.

No sugar tonight in MY coffee...

Cheers,
Moneypenny

FFF (Fast Free Friday)

OK - here is another FFF
FREE FAST FRIDAY
plus we changed from the last post of the day
to the FIRST because last week we ended up sticking around the office
answering emails and our goal is to leave early
your goal is to the the 1st emailer

with a full name and mailing address

to win all this free stuff
motorcityblog@earthlink.net

The Dirty Show continues and we purchased some goodies

last weekend to giveaway

winner gets a ladies tee - metal keychain and lapel pin

plus tickets to the show

We have 1 last copy of Pink Elephant from Ndambi

who will kicking ass tonight out at PIs in Southfield

MCB's Andrew Bender will be there to hook in

VICE Magazine 1 year Subscription
MCB loves the VICE MAG
http://www.viceland.com/

FREE CD from Big Rock Candy Machine

BRCM Links
MySpace
Rocketship (MP3)

Pair of tickets - CD and VINYL
from CAGE THE ELEPHANT
who play St Andrews Hall Detroit on 3/16

Bad Brains Music Tee

The Music Tee also launched its “Vintage Collection” series for 2010, which will feature new artist titles each month, starting with punk legends Bad Religion, Bad Brains and The Exciter this month. The Music Tee™ is a shirt that has ‘cover art’ on the front, a track list on the back, and a hang tag with a unique URL to download each album from

www.TheMusicTee.com

Free Cd from KARNIVOOL

who come to the area in April for show

at The Machine Shop in Flint

guess what?

you weren't fast enought to win

because we have a winner already

some chick named Carrie

so if you want to win this contest next week

you better go home and practice your FAST

The Olin Ezra Show Fire It Up Friday Feb 19th

Hit The BullForg this Frday for some good Detroit Hip-Hop/Rock with The Olin Ezra Show Fire it up Friday's!

High Strung Show -- this Friday Majestic Cafe

Check out The High Strung tomorrow night

4120-4140 Woodward Avenue, Detroit, MI.






FREE ALBUMS from The High Strung, ONLINE!!!!!!! (new stuff)
It's true, ladies and gentlemen. The High Strung will be presenting a number of FREE and donation oriented musical explorations in the coming months.

For the time, Josh Malerman, lead singer and songwriter, has a four track recording collection of songs that fair on the side of the macabre. "Phantom of the Opry" is still barrel house rock, and four track charm. On this album he puts his passions for writing, horror, lo-fi and melody together. www.joshmalerman.bandcamp.com

FREE!!!

The other piece is by the bass player, Chad Stocker, under the name, HONEST to GOODNESS. He already has one solo piece out, a vinyl only release from the record label www.fedoracorpse.com.

Also available for free or donation, is an EP, "On a Raft", with original album artwork, and a collection of older lo fi ambient, electro and acoustic experimental, cinematic sound-scapes. www.honesttogoodness.bandcamp.com