Friday, January 06, 2006
TLP January 6, 2006
Hey, peeps.
A couple days late (sorry, a combination of a screw up by Insight and my own crisis of motivation), but here it is, in time for your weekend merrymaking. Thanks to Reese Richardson and John Storts for their help with the Picks.
Hope all are well.
Ross
:::::::::::::::::::::::: Announcements :::::::::::::::::::::::::::
** Through January 31 – New Artwork by Bill Santen at Alfalfa restaurant
During the month of January, Alfalfa restaurant, 141 E. Main (adjacent to the Downtown Arts Center, across from the central branch of the public library) is hosting an exhibit of new paintings by Bill Santen. Don’t miss it - Bill’s one my favorite artists and one of my favorite people. Check out http://www.billsanten.com/new/ for a look at some of his work.
** Thursday through Saturday, January 12-14 – “Surprise Theatre“ @ Natasha’s Café, 112 Esplanade
Heard really good things about the Balagula Theatre’s “Surprise Theatre” performances in December at Natasha’s. Hoping to finally catch on this time around. Here’s a refresher on the concept – “Theatre is about framing a story. Typically this frame includes a stage, programs to educate the patrons about the play, and a curtain creating the “fourth wall” that safely separates and protects an audience from the dangerous and unpredictable actors. “Surprise Theatre” tosses aside the curtain and kicks down the wall. It removes the boundaries an audience is prepared for and anticipating and takes them from their normal safe point of observation and turns them into part of the story. “Surprise Theatre” does not come with a warning. Lights do not dim to announce the beginning, no one takes the stage for a speech to welcome them and introduce them, in fact there is no stage in the sense of theatre that we are used to. The stage can be anywhere, even everywhere. In that vein “Surprise Theatre” does not notify the audience to what will be seen and who is participating. The story might be anything; the performer might be sitting at the next table. And with this breaking down of the typical frames of theatre it is illustrated how stories about life unfold; almost always serendipitously, unplanned, and surprising.” Herald-Leader culture critic Rich Copley wrote of their July 2005 installment, “…one of the most unusual theater experiences in Lexington.” Seating begins nightly at 7:30pm. All ages welcome. Donations optional. For more information email eric@natashascafe.com. For reservations, ring the Café at 259-2754.
** The first in-store performances of 2006 at CD Central
CD Central has announced their first two in-stores of 2006. Here’s the scoop: Saturday, January 14 at 3pm, the store will host The Apparitions as they celebrate the release of their new record “As This Is Futuristic” by Chicago’s Machine Records label. Then, Saturday, January 28 at 4pm, it’s Atlanta’s Terry Anderson & the Olympic Ass-Kicking Team rocking the spot before their gig at High Life Lounge that night. Both shows are FREE and all ages are welcome.
** Monday, January 16 – Organizing Meeting for Lexington Mardi Gras Jazz Parade @ Mecca, 6:30pm
The time is drawing nigh again for freaks in the streets. And, you’re invited to be one of the freaks and/or to help loosely organize some haps around the freaks. This’ll be our third annual Mardi Gras Jazz Parade and it’s truly a people’s parade – an all walking/people powered parade organized by community members (the idea for the parade originated with Mecca’s Teresa Tomb and she and I have served as the primary organizers for the past two years). Anyone interested in helping with this year’s event is invited to an organizational meeting Monday, January 16 at 6:30pm at the new Mecca, 451 Chair Avenue (just off S. Broadway near Bolivar St). Questions? Drop a line to info@meccadance.com.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: THE PICKS :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
::::::::: Wednesday, January 4 through Wednesday, January 18 :::::::::::
:: Friday, January 5 ::
WE VS. THE SHARK w/IN ENDEAVORS ITALYA, THE OXFORD FARM REPORT, THE NINETY FIVE THESES, and THE MIDDLE FORK @ Firebird Studio, 359 W. Short St – 6pm, all ages, $5
Another good all ages rock show at Firebird.
We Vs. The Shark – indie/experimental/post hardcore - http://www.myspace.com/weversustheshark
In Endeavors Italya – post hardcore – http://myspace.com/inendeavorsitalya (my favorite on the bill) [Ed. Note - I think the lineup changed and they didn't play, but you should check out their shite anyway.]
The Oxford Farm Report – inspired rock weirdness – http://myspace.com/theoxfordfarmreport
The Ninety Five Theses – metal/hardcore/experimental - http://myspace.com/theninetyfivetheses
The Middle Fork – experimental industrial metal - http://myspace.com/themiddlefork
:: Friday, January 6 ::
PAGE FRANCE @ The Dame
early show! 7pm, ages 21+, $3
An early Friday night show. Page France = great Elephant Six-ish pop from Cumberland, Maryland. Just got hip to them earlier this week, so I don’t know much more. Recommended to fans of Neutral Milk Hotel and The Gerbils. Check out http://myspace.com/pagefrance for a few free tracks and http://www.pagefrance.net for more info. [Ed. Note - Page France blew my mind! Exuberance on the scale of Half Handed Cloud and Tilly and the Wall with the songcraft of Neutral Milk Hotel. I strongly recommend their cd "Hello, Dear Wind".]
:: Friday, January 6 ::
THE JOSH MARCUS QUARTET @ Underlying Themes
10pm-midnight, all ages, FREE
Since they’re no longer all full-time Lexington residents, JM4 sightings are to be cherished. Here’s your chance to check their modern jazz out free of charge. Recommended to fans of Soulive, John Scofield, and Medeski Martin & Wood.
:: Saturday, January 7 ::
THE ELEPHANTS w/SECOND STORY MAN and THE OXFORD FARM REPORT @ The Dame
9pm, ages 21+, $3
The Bowie hootenanny last Friday really wet my appetite for a full Elephants gig. While the ‘Phants were making their way through their three Bowie covers, I had to fight the urge to scream out requests for their own songs. You can find two of my favorite examples of their epic, eccentric pop at http://myspace.com/theelephants (both are from their “Carver and The Rose Attic” lp). I’m also excited to see The Oxford Farm Report live for the first time. Young kids churning out intensely weird, proggish pop that calls to mind everything from Primus to Queen to Lexington’s own Mr. Smartypants. Check out “Bring Out Yr Saints” at http://myspace.com/theoxfordfarmreport. For more info about and free sounds from Louisville’s Second Story Man, go to http://www.secondstoryman.net or http://myspace.com/secondstoryman.
:: Sunday, January 8 ::
FIGHT THE BULL @ Underlying Themes, 110 S. Upper (above Buster’s, entrance next to Mia’s)
8pm, all ages, FREE!
So where did 'Fight the Bull' get their name? I've no clue. Judging by the pictures on their website they don't seem to be matadors of any kind, but when listening to their music one begins to realize their music is as interesting as their title. "Fight the Bull" is a trio from Virginia made up of guitarist Matt White, trombonist Bryan Hooten and percussionist Pinson Chanselle. The trio is incredibly exploratory in many different areas but is especially so rhythmically. Chanselle seems to be the foundation for which the 'search can take flight.' His touch, groove, and taste provide the backbone for everything the trio is doing. Then, up front we have Bryan Hooten on trombone. Playing a monophonic instrument in a trio is a very tricky thing to do tastefully, but Hooten definitely pulls it off. Without being too 'wordy' or sparse, his ideas are very clear, and give the music that sing-a-long quality without compromising his integrity at all. Matt White on guitar has taken the role of band Buddhist - his repeated mantras give the music a very lyrical background and a beautiful platform for improvisation. The trio's overall sound is really shifty at times, one second you can pin them down, then they'll stop on a dime and take the music somewhere completely unexpected. They definitely play as a unit, and are very communicative in their improvisation. Their compositions seem short and sweet. Their grooves will hook you like Soulive and their improvisations will thrill you like Derek Bailey. Their sound is so cohesive and diverse they end up spoonfeeding you some really thoughtful music. "Fight the Bull" not only has an interesting name but a great sound and a low cover (the show is FREE). On Sunday, January 8th, skip church and come to the Underlying Themes loft instead. – Reese Richardson
http://www.fightthebull.net
:: Wednesday, January 11 ::
RC PRO AM w/THE MELODY FUNCTION and DANNY FEEDBACK @ The Dame
10pm, ages 21+, $3
Two of my new local favorites. RC Pro Am bring the heat – rock intensity that recalls the mid-90’s Lexington scenesters Ted Bundy’s Volkswagen and Massey Ferguson, as well as Oneida back when they were “Doing Business In Japan”. Check ‘em out for yourself at http://myspace.com/rcproam (my two favorite jams there are “Belly Full of Bourbon” and “Tokyo”). The Am is well worth the trip out by themselves, but the Melody Function offers further incentive. Where RC Pro Am turns the amps up to 11, the Melody Function opts to pop and bounce gently (though I have seen Tony knock over an amp or two). I keep flashing back to “That Thing You Do” when I listen to their track “She Goes”. Yes, I’ve sung the praises of that track in previous Lex Pro’s. If you haven’t heard it, do not pass ‘Go.’ Go straight to their Myspace page – http://myspace.com/themelodyfunction - and give it a listen. And while you’re there, do yourself a favor and check out their newer track “Recoulement” too.
:: Thursday, January 12 ::
DnB Liberation Front with MASON, DSTAR, BASIC OPERATIONS, VECTOR BURNS, BEET AND BAD LIEUTENANT, MC SHARPNESS, and ARMANNI REIGN @ The Dame
9pm, ages 21+, $10
Awight, I don’t know crap about drum and bass music, but my man Chook Moreland tells me this is going to be a tight show. And, I’m a sucker for the ‘revolutionary’ imagery and rhetoric. http://www.dnbliberation.com
:: Friday, January 13 ::
THE APPARITIONS cd release party w/SUNDAY RUNNERS @ The Dame
10pm, ages 21+, $5
Come out, come out wherever you are! CD Release Goodness!
You won't want to miss this show, folks. Their new CD, As This Is Futuristic, assaults the machinery of Bad Pop like the Ents at Isengard, and you will get to hear exciting new songs plus tastily revamped versions of live favorites LIVE and UP CLOSE (not that close, though. While the band does not, Lexington statutes prohibit it.) Anthemic evolutionary tales like "God Monkey Robot" snuggle up to new-wavy rave-up "Cemeteries" while surreptitiously making eyes at edgy dark horses like "Arrhythmia" with no ugly-punch-ups.
Don't hole up in Fangorn and miss it. Contrary to what math and Mr. Webster tell us, regret is a four-letter word.
To steal their tagline: LIVE MUSIC IS BETTER.
- John Storts
[Ed. note: Don’t sleep on Sunday Runners. They’ve got a nice sophisticate pop thing going and a vocalist who reminds me a bit of Jeff Buckley.] http://myspace.com/theapparitions, http://myspace.com/sundayrunners
:: Saturday, January 14 ::
MARY HALVORSON/JESSICA PAVONE duo @ Mecca, 451 Chair Avenue (just off S. Broadway near Bolivar)
[NOTE: The venue for this one has changed since the zine was originally posted. Mecca is the correct venue.]
8pm, all ages, $3
Another Outside the Spotlight gig. Halvorson and Pavone = guitar and cello duo from New York whose members have played with a mix of avant artists ranging from the art pop project Dirty Projectors (anyone remember their stunning show at the Icehouse with Landing and Wind-Up Bird? Jessica played viola at that show) to Anthony Braxton. Musically, the duo reminds me of indie-avant luminaries Gastr del Sol (Jim O’Rourke and David Grubbs for you young scenesters), Nels Cline, and the recently deceased Derek Bailey (who changed everything about avant-guitar – R.I.P.). I have a feeling this is going to be a special show. For free sounds, check out http://www.myspace.com/maryandjess. Still not satiated? Then check out http://www.jessicapavone.com and http://maryhalvorson.blogspot.com.
[FULL DISCLOSURE: I helped organize this show.]
:: Sunday, January 15 ::
Lexington Underground Performing Arts Society / Event 001 featuring Karate/Jones and Fahad Siadat
@ Underlying Themes, 110 S. Upper St (above Buster's, entrance next to Mia's)
[NOTE: The venue for this one has changed since the zine was originally posted. Underlying Themes is the correct venue.]
7-9pm, all ages, $3
A new series designed to give local musicians a chance to stretch out and experiment. Expect a relaxed workshop atmosphere and an audience filled with fellow musicians and musically adventurous locals. Take one features a sonic meditation conducted by Fahad Siadat (all are invited to participate – check out the blog edition of the Lex Pro for the full details – http://thelexingtonproject.org) and a set by an expanded Karate/Jones duo (yeah, if it’s expanded I guess that means it’s no longer a duo).
Directions for SONIC MEDITATION 1
Starting the piece
*Voice parts are also for instruments of corresponding range. All pitches are concert pitches and may need adjustment in certain instruments.
Basses: Sing/play a pitch, D3. Sustain Pitch, breath when necessary.
Tenors: Sing/play a perfect fifth above basses. Sustain Pitch, breath when necessary.
Altos: Sing/play a perfect fifth above tenors. Sustain Pitch, breath when necessary.
Sopranos: Sing/play a major second above altos. Sustain Pitch, breath when necessary.
All pitches should be sung on a neutral “AH” vowel.
Singing the piece
1. Sing the pitch you are on, crescendo and decrescendo your pitch independently from the rest of the choir.
2. Pick another note from the initial chord built by the choir; any octave is acceptable.
3. Repeat steps one and two.
Ending the piece
When the soloist finishes playing the accompanying choir will, as a unit, crescendo and decrescendo a few times and then stop sound at the same time.
[FULL DISCLOSURE: I helped organize this show.]
:: Also worthwhile in the January 4 - 18 timeframe ::
Every Friday RAKADU GYPSY DANCE @ Nema’s Grille (Frankfort, KY) – all ages
Thurs/Jan 5 THE MIDDLE FORK w/ABRA CADAVER and THE NIGHTSHADES @ The Dame
Fri/Jan 6 SEXUAL DISASTER QUARTET w/BEBEK @ The Dame – late show
Sat/Jan 7 SLO-FI w/TULA @ High Life Lounge
Thurs/Jan 12 RUBBERBAND w/KILL TOBY WYATT and SQUALL LINE @ High Life Lounge
Thurs/Jan 12 THE GREENHORNES @ Headliners (Louisville)
Fri/Jan 13 CLUB DUB @ High Life Lounge
Sat/Jan 14 HELLS BELLS “America’s #1 Tribute to AC/DC” @ The Dame
:: Soon Soon ::
Fri/Jan 20 HAIR POLICE w/WARMER MILKS, BURNING STAR CORE, and WALTER CARSON @ Underlying Themes, 110 S. Upper – all ages
Fri/Jan 20 G-FUNK @ The Dame
Sat/Jan 21 YELLOW BELTS w/CITY MOUSE @ The Dame
Tues/Jan 24 AUK THEATRE w/PLEASURE PRINTS, JINDRA, CAVES, WAR CHEST, and THE SIRENS OF THE LAURA PALMER DEATH SEQUENCE @ The Dame
Wed/Jan 25 DUWAYNE BURNSIDE w/JIMBO MATHUS @ The Dame
Fri/Jan 27 PUERTO MUERTO @ Underlying Themes – all ages
Sat/Jan 28 PUERTO MUERTO presents “Songs of Muerto County” – a live soundtrack to the “TEXAS CHAINSAW MASSACRE” @ UK’s Worsham Theater – all ages
Sat/Jan 28 PARLOUR BOYS ep release party w/MOTH and THE MEREDITHS @ The Dame
Mon/Jan 30 Lexington Filmmaker Night @ The Dame - FREE
Tues/Jan 31 DARK STAR ORCHESTRA @ The Dame
Thur/Feb 2 FEIST w/JASON COLLETT @ Headliners (Louisville)
Sun/Feb 5 VANDERMARK 5 @ Underlying Themes, 110 S. Upper – all ages, outsidethespotlight.blogspot.com
Mon/Feb 6 SON VOLT w/SHANNON McNALLY@ The Dame
Tues/Feb 7 ANDREW BIRD featuring DOSH @ The Dame
Wed/Feb 8 THE GREENCARDS @ The Dame
Fri/Feb 10 ASYLUM STREET SPANKERS @ The Dame
Sat/Feb 11 THE BAD PLUS @ UK’s Memorial Hall – all ages
Sat/Feb 11 BOB POLLARD (ex-Guided By Voices) @ Southgate House (Newport, KY)
Fri/Feb 17 SIGUR ROS @ Palace Theatre (Louisville)
Sat/Feb 18 DJ CARLOS D (of Interpol) w/DJ KIT CHAPS (of VHS or Beta), and PARLOUR BOYS @ The Dame
Thurs/Feb 16 BR549 w/THE AVETT BROTHERS @ The Dame
Thurs/Feb 23 COLDPLAY w/FIONA APPLE @ Freedom Hall (Louisville)
Sat/Feb 25 Lexington’s 3rd annual Mardi Gras Jazz Parade through the streets downtown - led by NYC’s BURNT SUGAR! http://burntsugarindex.com
Sat/Feb 25 BURNT SUGAR (featuring members of Storm and Stress, ISWHAT?!, Sticks and Stones) @ The Dame
Sun/Feb 26 OF MONTREAL @ Southgate House (Newport, KY
Mon/Feb 27 EDITH FROST w/THE ZINCS @ The Dame
Tues/Feb 28 EDITH FROST w/THE ZINCS @ Headliners (Louisville)
Fri/Mar 3 MOGWAI @ The Dame
Fri/Mar 24 ERIN McKEOWN TRIO w/MELISSA FERRICK @ Southgate House (Newport, KY)
Tues/Apr 4 HALF HANDED CLOUD w/LIZ JANES + CREATE! @ Underlying Themes, 110 S. Upper – all ages
Thurs/Apr 13 DAVE REMPIS PERCUSSION QUARTET @ Underlying Themes – all ages, outsidethespotlight.blogspot.com
:: Pertinent resources ::
__Lexington__
THE DAME, 156 W.Main St, Lexingtonhttp://www.blogger.com/img/gl.link.gif - http://www.dameky.com
MECCA studio/gallery, 451 Chair Avenue, off S.Broadway near Bolivar - http://www.meccadance.com
UNDERLYING THEMES LOFT SPACE, 110 S. Upper (above Busters) – http://www.underlyingthemes.com
CHARLES MANSION - http://www.charlesmansion.orghttp://www.blogger.com/img/gl.link.gif
NATASHA'S CAFE, 112 Esplanade - http://www.beetnik.com/
FAUNTLEROY’S CAFÉ, 640 W. Maxwell – ph. 859/455-8188
THE ICEHOUSE, 412 Cross St (off W.Maxwell), Lexington
DOWNTOWN ARTS CENTER, 141 E. Main St, Lexington – http://www.lexarts.org
ARTSPLACE, 161 N.Mill St, Lexington
LEXINGTONSHOWS.com (all ages show listings) -
ef="http://www.lexingtonshows.com">http://www.lexingtonshows.com
COUNTER FICTION (more all ages show listings) – http://www.counterfiction.com
CRICKET PRESS (amazing local poster art) - http://www.cricket-press.com
WRFL 88.1FM (UK's student-run radio station) - http://wrfl.uky.edu
YOU AIN’T NO PICASSO (great locally-produced music blog) – http://www.youaintnopicasoo.com
__Louisville__
LAVA (Louisville Assembly of Vanguard Artists) HOUSE - 927 Shelby Parkway, Louisville - http://www.lavahouse.org
HEADLINERS MUSIC HALL, Louisville - 1386 Lexington Road, ph. 502/584-8088 - www.headlinerslouisville.com
UNCLE PLEASANTS, 2126 S. Preston, Louisville - p.502/634-4147
THE RUDYARD KIPLING, 422 West Oak Street, Louisville -
http://www.therudyardkipling.com/pages/206999/index.htm
OLD LOUISVILLE COFFEHOUSE, 1489 S. Fourth St, Louisville - ph. 502/635-6660
PRODUCTION SIMPLE (produce many of the events at Headliners and Uncle Pleasants) – http://www.productionsimplehttp://www.blogger.com/img/gl.link.gif.com)
__Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky__
THE SOUTHGATE HOUSE, Newport, KY - http://www.southgatehouse.com
ALCHEMIZE, 1122 Walnut Street, Cincinnati, OH – http://www.alchemizebar.com
THE COMET, 4579 Hamilton Avenue, Cincinnati, OH - http://www.cometbar.com
BOGART'S, 2621 Vine St, Cincinnati, OH - http://www.bogarts.com
THE MOCKBEE (formerly SS NOVA), 2260 Central Parkway, Cincinnati, OH - http://www.ssnova.org
NORTHSIDE TAVERN, 4163 Hamilton Ave, Cincinnati, OH – http://www.northside-tavern.com
Know of an upcoming event that others should get hip to? Let us know - email informationactivists@yahoo.com
All Picks by Ross Compton unless otherwise noted.
:::::::::::::: QUESTIONS/COMMENTS/SUBMISSIONS ::::::::::::::::::::::::
email thelexingtonproject@yahoo.com
A couple days late (sorry, a combination of a screw up by Insight and my own crisis of motivation), but here it is, in time for your weekend merrymaking. Thanks to Reese Richardson and John Storts for their help with the Picks.
Hope all are well.
Ross
:::::::::::::::::::::::: Announcements :::::::::::::::::::::::::::
** Through January 31 – New Artwork by Bill Santen at Alfalfa restaurant
During the month of January, Alfalfa restaurant, 141 E. Main (adjacent to the Downtown Arts Center, across from the central branch of the public library) is hosting an exhibit of new paintings by Bill Santen. Don’t miss it - Bill’s one my favorite artists and one of my favorite people. Check out http://www.billsanten.com/new/ for a look at some of his work.
** Thursday through Saturday, January 12-14 – “Surprise Theatre“ @ Natasha’s Café, 112 Esplanade
Heard really good things about the Balagula Theatre’s “Surprise Theatre” performances in December at Natasha’s. Hoping to finally catch on this time around. Here’s a refresher on the concept – “Theatre is about framing a story. Typically this frame includes a stage, programs to educate the patrons about the play, and a curtain creating the “fourth wall” that safely separates and protects an audience from the dangerous and unpredictable actors. “Surprise Theatre” tosses aside the curtain and kicks down the wall. It removes the boundaries an audience is prepared for and anticipating and takes them from their normal safe point of observation and turns them into part of the story. “Surprise Theatre” does not come with a warning. Lights do not dim to announce the beginning, no one takes the stage for a speech to welcome them and introduce them, in fact there is no stage in the sense of theatre that we are used to. The stage can be anywhere, even everywhere. In that vein “Surprise Theatre” does not notify the audience to what will be seen and who is participating. The story might be anything; the performer might be sitting at the next table. And with this breaking down of the typical frames of theatre it is illustrated how stories about life unfold; almost always serendipitously, unplanned, and surprising.” Herald-Leader culture critic Rich Copley wrote of their July 2005 installment, “…one of the most unusual theater experiences in Lexington.” Seating begins nightly at 7:30pm. All ages welcome. Donations optional. For more information email eric@natashascafe.com. For reservations, ring the Café at 259-2754.
** The first in-store performances of 2006 at CD Central
CD Central has announced their first two in-stores of 2006. Here’s the scoop: Saturday, January 14 at 3pm, the store will host The Apparitions as they celebrate the release of their new record “As This Is Futuristic” by Chicago’s Machine Records label. Then, Saturday, January 28 at 4pm, it’s Atlanta’s Terry Anderson & the Olympic Ass-Kicking Team rocking the spot before their gig at High Life Lounge that night. Both shows are FREE and all ages are welcome.
** Monday, January 16 – Organizing Meeting for Lexington Mardi Gras Jazz Parade @ Mecca, 6:30pm
The time is drawing nigh again for freaks in the streets. And, you’re invited to be one of the freaks and/or to help loosely organize some haps around the freaks. This’ll be our third annual Mardi Gras Jazz Parade and it’s truly a people’s parade – an all walking/people powered parade organized by community members (the idea for the parade originated with Mecca’s Teresa Tomb and she and I have served as the primary organizers for the past two years). Anyone interested in helping with this year’s event is invited to an organizational meeting Monday, January 16 at 6:30pm at the new Mecca, 451 Chair Avenue (just off S. Broadway near Bolivar St). Questions? Drop a line to info@meccadance.com.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: THE PICKS :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
::::::::: Wednesday, January 4 through Wednesday, January 18 :::::::::::
:: Friday, January 5 ::
WE VS. THE SHARK w/IN ENDEAVORS ITALYA, THE OXFORD FARM REPORT, THE NINETY FIVE THESES, and THE MIDDLE FORK @ Firebird Studio, 359 W. Short St – 6pm, all ages, $5
Another good all ages rock show at Firebird.
We Vs. The Shark – indie/experimental/post hardcore - http://www.myspace.com/weversustheshark
In Endeavors Italya – post hardcore – http://myspace.com/inendeavorsitalya (my favorite on the bill) [Ed. Note - I think the lineup changed and they didn't play, but you should check out their shite anyway.]
The Oxford Farm Report – inspired rock weirdness – http://myspace.com/theoxfordfarmreport
The Ninety Five Theses – metal/hardcore/experimental - http://myspace.com/theninetyfivetheses
The Middle Fork – experimental industrial metal - http://myspace.com/themiddlefork
:: Friday, January 6 ::
PAGE FRANCE @ The Dame
early show! 7pm, ages 21+, $3
An early Friday night show. Page France = great Elephant Six-ish pop from Cumberland, Maryland. Just got hip to them earlier this week, so I don’t know much more. Recommended to fans of Neutral Milk Hotel and The Gerbils. Check out http://myspace.com/pagefrance for a few free tracks and http://www.pagefrance.net for more info. [Ed. Note - Page France blew my mind! Exuberance on the scale of Half Handed Cloud and Tilly and the Wall with the songcraft of Neutral Milk Hotel. I strongly recommend their cd "Hello, Dear Wind".]
:: Friday, January 6 ::
THE JOSH MARCUS QUARTET @ Underlying Themes
10pm-midnight, all ages, FREE
Since they’re no longer all full-time Lexington residents, JM4 sightings are to be cherished. Here’s your chance to check their modern jazz out free of charge. Recommended to fans of Soulive, John Scofield, and Medeski Martin & Wood.
:: Saturday, January 7 ::
THE ELEPHANTS w/SECOND STORY MAN and THE OXFORD FARM REPORT @ The Dame
9pm, ages 21+, $3
The Bowie hootenanny last Friday really wet my appetite for a full Elephants gig. While the ‘Phants were making their way through their three Bowie covers, I had to fight the urge to scream out requests for their own songs. You can find two of my favorite examples of their epic, eccentric pop at http://myspace.com/theelephants (both are from their “Carver and The Rose Attic” lp). I’m also excited to see The Oxford Farm Report live for the first time. Young kids churning out intensely weird, proggish pop that calls to mind everything from Primus to Queen to Lexington’s own Mr. Smartypants. Check out “Bring Out Yr Saints” at http://myspace.com/theoxfordfarmreport. For more info about and free sounds from Louisville’s Second Story Man, go to http://www.secondstoryman.net or http://myspace.com/secondstoryman.
:: Sunday, January 8 ::
FIGHT THE BULL @ Underlying Themes, 110 S. Upper (above Buster’s, entrance next to Mia’s)
8pm, all ages, FREE!
So where did 'Fight the Bull' get their name? I've no clue. Judging by the pictures on their website they don't seem to be matadors of any kind, but when listening to their music one begins to realize their music is as interesting as their title. "Fight the Bull" is a trio from Virginia made up of guitarist Matt White, trombonist Bryan Hooten and percussionist Pinson Chanselle. The trio is incredibly exploratory in many different areas but is especially so rhythmically. Chanselle seems to be the foundation for which the 'search can take flight.' His touch, groove, and taste provide the backbone for everything the trio is doing. Then, up front we have Bryan Hooten on trombone. Playing a monophonic instrument in a trio is a very tricky thing to do tastefully, but Hooten definitely pulls it off. Without being too 'wordy' or sparse, his ideas are very clear, and give the music that sing-a-long quality without compromising his integrity at all. Matt White on guitar has taken the role of band Buddhist - his repeated mantras give the music a very lyrical background and a beautiful platform for improvisation. The trio's overall sound is really shifty at times, one second you can pin them down, then they'll stop on a dime and take the music somewhere completely unexpected. They definitely play as a unit, and are very communicative in their improvisation. Their compositions seem short and sweet. Their grooves will hook you like Soulive and their improvisations will thrill you like Derek Bailey. Their sound is so cohesive and diverse they end up spoonfeeding you some really thoughtful music. "Fight the Bull" not only has an interesting name but a great sound and a low cover (the show is FREE). On Sunday, January 8th, skip church and come to the Underlying Themes loft instead. – Reese Richardson
http://www.fightthebull.net
:: Wednesday, January 11 ::
RC PRO AM w/THE MELODY FUNCTION and DANNY FEEDBACK @ The Dame
10pm, ages 21+, $3
Two of my new local favorites. RC Pro Am bring the heat – rock intensity that recalls the mid-90’s Lexington scenesters Ted Bundy’s Volkswagen and Massey Ferguson, as well as Oneida back when they were “Doing Business In Japan”. Check ‘em out for yourself at http://myspace.com/rcproam (my two favorite jams there are “Belly Full of Bourbon” and “Tokyo”). The Am is well worth the trip out by themselves, but the Melody Function offers further incentive. Where RC Pro Am turns the amps up to 11, the Melody Function opts to pop and bounce gently (though I have seen Tony knock over an amp or two). I keep flashing back to “That Thing You Do” when I listen to their track “She Goes”. Yes, I’ve sung the praises of that track in previous Lex Pro’s. If you haven’t heard it, do not pass ‘Go.’ Go straight to their Myspace page – http://myspace.com/themelodyfunction - and give it a listen. And while you’re there, do yourself a favor and check out their newer track “Recoulement” too.
:: Thursday, January 12 ::
DnB Liberation Front with MASON, DSTAR, BASIC OPERATIONS, VECTOR BURNS, BEET AND BAD LIEUTENANT, MC SHARPNESS, and ARMANNI REIGN @ The Dame
9pm, ages 21+, $10
Awight, I don’t know crap about drum and bass music, but my man Chook Moreland tells me this is going to be a tight show. And, I’m a sucker for the ‘revolutionary’ imagery and rhetoric. http://www.dnbliberation.com
:: Friday, January 13 ::
THE APPARITIONS cd release party w/SUNDAY RUNNERS @ The Dame
10pm, ages 21+, $5
Come out, come out wherever you are! CD Release Goodness!
You won't want to miss this show, folks. Their new CD, As This Is Futuristic, assaults the machinery of Bad Pop like the Ents at Isengard, and you will get to hear exciting new songs plus tastily revamped versions of live favorites LIVE and UP CLOSE (not that close, though. While the band does not, Lexington statutes prohibit it.) Anthemic evolutionary tales like "God Monkey Robot" snuggle up to new-wavy rave-up "Cemeteries" while surreptitiously making eyes at edgy dark horses like "Arrhythmia" with no ugly-punch-ups.
Don't hole up in Fangorn and miss it. Contrary to what math and Mr. Webster tell us, regret is a four-letter word.
To steal their tagline: LIVE MUSIC IS BETTER.
- John Storts
[Ed. note: Don’t sleep on Sunday Runners. They’ve got a nice sophisticate pop thing going and a vocalist who reminds me a bit of Jeff Buckley.] http://myspace.com/theapparitions, http://myspace.com/sundayrunners
:: Saturday, January 14 ::
MARY HALVORSON/JESSICA PAVONE duo @ Mecca, 451 Chair Avenue (just off S. Broadway near Bolivar)
[NOTE: The venue for this one has changed since the zine was originally posted. Mecca is the correct venue.]
8pm, all ages, $3
Another Outside the Spotlight gig. Halvorson and Pavone = guitar and cello duo from New York whose members have played with a mix of avant artists ranging from the art pop project Dirty Projectors (anyone remember their stunning show at the Icehouse with Landing and Wind-Up Bird? Jessica played viola at that show) to Anthony Braxton. Musically, the duo reminds me of indie-avant luminaries Gastr del Sol (Jim O’Rourke and David Grubbs for you young scenesters), Nels Cline, and the recently deceased Derek Bailey (who changed everything about avant-guitar – R.I.P.). I have a feeling this is going to be a special show. For free sounds, check out http://www.myspace.com/maryandjess. Still not satiated? Then check out http://www.jessicapavone.com and http://maryhalvorson.blogspot.com.
[FULL DISCLOSURE: I helped organize this show.]
:: Sunday, January 15 ::
Lexington Underground Performing Arts Society / Event 001 featuring Karate/Jones and Fahad Siadat
@ Underlying Themes, 110 S. Upper St (above Buster's, entrance next to Mia's)
[NOTE: The venue for this one has changed since the zine was originally posted. Underlying Themes is the correct venue.]
7-9pm, all ages, $3
A new series designed to give local musicians a chance to stretch out and experiment. Expect a relaxed workshop atmosphere and an audience filled with fellow musicians and musically adventurous locals. Take one features a sonic meditation conducted by Fahad Siadat (all are invited to participate – check out the blog edition of the Lex Pro for the full details – http://thelexingtonproject.org) and a set by an expanded Karate/Jones duo (yeah, if it’s expanded I guess that means it’s no longer a duo).
Directions for SONIC MEDITATION 1
Starting the piece
*Voice parts are also for instruments of corresponding range. All pitches are concert pitches and may need adjustment in certain instruments.
Basses: Sing/play a pitch, D3. Sustain Pitch, breath when necessary.
Tenors: Sing/play a perfect fifth above basses. Sustain Pitch, breath when necessary.
Altos: Sing/play a perfect fifth above tenors. Sustain Pitch, breath when necessary.
Sopranos: Sing/play a major second above altos. Sustain Pitch, breath when necessary.
All pitches should be sung on a neutral “AH” vowel.
Singing the piece
1. Sing the pitch you are on, crescendo and decrescendo your pitch independently from the rest of the choir.
2. Pick another note from the initial chord built by the choir; any octave is acceptable.
3. Repeat steps one and two.
Ending the piece
When the soloist finishes playing the accompanying choir will, as a unit, crescendo and decrescendo a few times and then stop sound at the same time.
[FULL DISCLOSURE: I helped organize this show.]
:: Also worthwhile in the January 4 - 18 timeframe ::
Every Friday RAKADU GYPSY DANCE @ Nema’s Grille (Frankfort, KY) – all ages
Thurs/Jan 5 THE MIDDLE FORK w/ABRA CADAVER and THE NIGHTSHADES @ The Dame
Fri/Jan 6 SEXUAL DISASTER QUARTET w/BEBEK @ The Dame – late show
Sat/Jan 7 SLO-FI w/TULA @ High Life Lounge
Thurs/Jan 12 RUBBERBAND w/KILL TOBY WYATT and SQUALL LINE @ High Life Lounge
Thurs/Jan 12 THE GREENHORNES @ Headliners (Louisville)
Fri/Jan 13 CLUB DUB @ High Life Lounge
Sat/Jan 14 HELLS BELLS “America’s #1 Tribute to AC/DC” @ The Dame
:: Soon Soon ::
Fri/Jan 20 HAIR POLICE w/WARMER MILKS, BURNING STAR CORE, and WALTER CARSON @ Underlying Themes, 110 S. Upper – all ages
Fri/Jan 20 G-FUNK @ The Dame
Sat/Jan 21 YELLOW BELTS w/CITY MOUSE @ The Dame
Tues/Jan 24 AUK THEATRE w/PLEASURE PRINTS, JINDRA, CAVES, WAR CHEST, and THE SIRENS OF THE LAURA PALMER DEATH SEQUENCE @ The Dame
Wed/Jan 25 DUWAYNE BURNSIDE w/JIMBO MATHUS @ The Dame
Fri/Jan 27 PUERTO MUERTO @ Underlying Themes – all ages
Sat/Jan 28 PUERTO MUERTO presents “Songs of Muerto County” – a live soundtrack to the “TEXAS CHAINSAW MASSACRE” @ UK’s Worsham Theater – all ages
Sat/Jan 28 PARLOUR BOYS ep release party w/MOTH and THE MEREDITHS @ The Dame
Mon/Jan 30 Lexington Filmmaker Night @ The Dame - FREE
Tues/Jan 31 DARK STAR ORCHESTRA @ The Dame
Thur/Feb 2 FEIST w/JASON COLLETT @ Headliners (Louisville)
Sun/Feb 5 VANDERMARK 5 @ Underlying Themes, 110 S. Upper – all ages, outsidethespotlight.blogspot.com
Mon/Feb 6 SON VOLT w/SHANNON McNALLY@ The Dame
Tues/Feb 7 ANDREW BIRD featuring DOSH @ The Dame
Wed/Feb 8 THE GREENCARDS @ The Dame
Fri/Feb 10 ASYLUM STREET SPANKERS @ The Dame
Sat/Feb 11 THE BAD PLUS @ UK’s Memorial Hall – all ages
Sat/Feb 11 BOB POLLARD (ex-Guided By Voices) @ Southgate House (Newport, KY)
Fri/Feb 17 SIGUR ROS @ Palace Theatre (Louisville)
Sat/Feb 18 DJ CARLOS D (of Interpol) w/DJ KIT CHAPS (of VHS or Beta), and PARLOUR BOYS @ The Dame
Thurs/Feb 16 BR549 w/THE AVETT BROTHERS @ The Dame
Thurs/Feb 23 COLDPLAY w/FIONA APPLE @ Freedom Hall (Louisville)
Sat/Feb 25 Lexington’s 3rd annual Mardi Gras Jazz Parade through the streets downtown - led by NYC’s BURNT SUGAR! http://burntsugarindex.com
Sat/Feb 25 BURNT SUGAR (featuring members of Storm and Stress, ISWHAT?!, Sticks and Stones) @ The Dame
Sun/Feb 26 OF MONTREAL @ Southgate House (Newport, KY
Mon/Feb 27 EDITH FROST w/THE ZINCS @ The Dame
Tues/Feb 28 EDITH FROST w/THE ZINCS @ Headliners (Louisville)
Fri/Mar 3 MOGWAI @ The Dame
Fri/Mar 24 ERIN McKEOWN TRIO w/MELISSA FERRICK @ Southgate House (Newport, KY)
Tues/Apr 4 HALF HANDED CLOUD w/LIZ JANES + CREATE! @ Underlying Themes, 110 S. Upper – all ages
Thurs/Apr 13 DAVE REMPIS PERCUSSION QUARTET @ Underlying Themes – all ages, outsidethespotlight.blogspot.com
:: Pertinent resources ::
__Lexington__
THE DAME, 156 W.Main St, Lexingtonhttp://www.blogger.com/img/gl.link.gif - http://www.dameky.com
MECCA studio/gallery, 451 Chair Avenue, off S.Broadway near Bolivar - http://www.meccadance.com
UNDERLYING THEMES LOFT SPACE, 110 S. Upper (above Busters) – http://www.underlyingthemes.com
CHARLES MANSION - http://www.charlesmansion.orghttp://www.blogger.com/img/gl.link.gif
NATASHA'S CAFE, 112 Esplanade - http://www.beetnik.com/
FAUNTLEROY’S CAFÉ, 640 W. Maxwell – ph. 859/455-8188
THE ICEHOUSE, 412 Cross St (off W.Maxwell), Lexington
DOWNTOWN ARTS CENTER, 141 E. Main St, Lexington – http://www.lexarts.org
ARTSPLACE, 161 N.Mill St, Lexington
LEXINGTONSHOWS.com (all ages show listings) -
ef="http://www.lexingtonshows.com">http://www.lexingtonshows.com
COUNTER FICTION (more all ages show listings) – http://www.counterfiction.com
CRICKET PRESS (amazing local poster art) - http://www.cricket-press.com
WRFL 88.1FM (UK's student-run radio station) - http://wrfl.uky.edu
YOU AIN’T NO PICASSO (great locally-produced music blog) – http://www.youaintnopicasoo.com
__Louisville__
LAVA (Louisville Assembly of Vanguard Artists) HOUSE - 927 Shelby Parkway, Louisville - http://www.lavahouse.org
HEADLINERS MUSIC HALL, Louisville - 1386 Lexington Road, ph. 502/584-8088 - www.headlinerslouisville.com
UNCLE PLEASANTS, 2126 S. Preston, Louisville - p.502/634-4147
THE RUDYARD KIPLING, 422 West Oak Street, Louisville -
http://www.therudyardkipling.com/pages/206999/index.htm
OLD LOUISVILLE COFFEHOUSE, 1489 S. Fourth St, Louisville - ph. 502/635-6660
PRODUCTION SIMPLE (produce many of the events at Headliners and Uncle Pleasants) – http://www.productionsimplehttp://www.blogger.com/img/gl.link.gif.com)
__Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky__
THE SOUTHGATE HOUSE, Newport, KY - http://www.southgatehouse.com
ALCHEMIZE, 1122 Walnut Street, Cincinnati, OH – http://www.alchemizebar.com
THE COMET, 4579 Hamilton Avenue, Cincinnati, OH - http://www.cometbar.com
BOGART'S, 2621 Vine St, Cincinnati, OH - http://www.bogarts.com
THE MOCKBEE (formerly SS NOVA), 2260 Central Parkway, Cincinnati, OH - http://www.ssnova.org
NORTHSIDE TAVERN, 4163 Hamilton Ave, Cincinnati, OH – http://www.northside-tavern.com
Know of an upcoming event that others should get hip to? Let us know - email informationactivists@yahoo.com
All Picks by Ross Compton unless otherwise noted.
:::::::::::::: QUESTIONS/COMMENTS/SUBMISSIONS ::::::::::::::::::::::::
email thelexingtonproject@yahoo.com
