Wednesday, February 15, 2006
TLP February 15, 2006
Hey, peeps.
My apologies for the late and, at times, ragged Lex Pro. Struggled to find the motivation to sit in front of the computer on such a beautiful day. Thanks to Michael Benton, Tim Buckingham, and Daryl Cook for help with the Picks. Two packed weekends coming up including Gallery Hop this weekend and the Mardi Gras Jazz Parade next. Get out and shake off those winter blues. Hope all are well.
Ross
:::::::::::::::::::::::: Announcements :::::::::::::::::::::::::::
** Sat/Feb. 25 – Lexington’s 3rd Annual Mardi Gras Jazz Parade
Mecca:Live Studio and Gallery and the Lexington Action Arts Collective present Lexington’s 3rd Annual Mardi Gras Jazz Parade, Saturday, February 25th at 6pm. An artist-organized people’s parade, this year’s event will be led by the 14 piece New York City jazz band Burnt Sugar (think Sun Ra Arkestra meets ‘Bitches Brew’-era Miles Davis meets Sly and the Family Stone).
> Parade Route
The parade will begin at the corner of Mill and Short Sts, then move down Mill to Main, east on Main to Limestone, north on Limestone to Short, and west on Short back to Mill St.
> After-party
An all-ages after-party will be held immediately following the parade in the performance hall at ArtsPlace, 161 N. Mill St (just a block from the parade’s ending point). The party will feature a performance by Burnt Sugar, a performance by Mecca’s Samba dancers and drummers, prizes for the most outrageous/creative parade participants (including the crowning of the parade King and Queen), free King Cake and refreshments and more. The party is free and open to everyone.
> After-after-party
The official after-after-party is an ages 21+ celebration at the Dame. The party will feature full-length performances by NYC avant-big band Burnt Sugar (www.burntsugarindex.com) and Cincinnati jazz/hip hop trio ISWHAT?! (www.iswhat.net), as well as FREE Cajun food (including a vegetarian option) and King Cake from Gumbo Ya Ya. Doors for the after-after-party open at 8pm. Admission is $8.
> Participation
The parade is a walking/people powered (i.e. no motorized vehicle) people’s parade. All are invited to join the fun. There’s no fee for participation, so come get silly with your friends and neighbors. For more information on how you can get involved, visit www.lexingtonmardigrasparade.com. Questions? Contact Mecca at info@meccadance.com or by phone at 254/9790.
> Community Decorating Parties
(1) citizensCREATE (www.citizenscreate.org - info@citizencreate.org), a local non-profit arts group, will facilitate a decorating party aimed at children Saturday, Feb.18th from 2:30-4pm at Mecca dance studio/gallery, 451 Chair Ave (just off S. Broadway near Bolivar). All ages are invited. Some decorating supplies will be provided, but folks are always encouraged to bring more.
(2) Our friends at Nougat magazine will host a decorating party Monday, Feb.20th beginning at 8pm at the Dame. Again, supplies will be provided. It’s a free event. Ages 21+ admitted.
The parade is sponsored by a lot of wonderful community-minded groups and businesses including WRFL 88.1FM, LexArts, Latitude Arts, citizensCREATE!, the UK Office of African-American Student Affairs, Isle of You boutique, Gumbo Ya Ya restaurant, Nougat magazine, and Firebird Studio and Gallery.
** Final weekend for Actor’s Guild’s production of “The Story” @ the Downtown Arts Center
I don’t get out to see much local theater, but I caught this play a couple weekends ago and enjoyed it. A very provocative work. I’d encourage everyone to check it out. For a synopsis, showtimes, etc, check out http://www.actorsguildoflexington.org.
** 2006 One World Film Festival
The One World Film Festival, an annual festival dedicated to stimulating discussion, exploring ideas and increasing understanding of issues of race, gender, culture, ethnicity, and sexual orientation, kicked off last weekend with a screening of the Iranian film “Children of Heaven.” This week, it continues with two FREE screenings (all the films in the festival are free and open to the public) - Thursday, Feb.16 with “Travellers & Magicians” (at the theater space inside the Central Branch of the Lexington Public Library on Main at7:30pm) and, on Sunday, the 19th, a double bill of “Daddy and Papa” and “Out In the Heartland” (also at the Central Library Theater at 2pm). Next week, it’s David LaChapelle’s documentary “Rize” and the Afghani film “Osama”. You can find the full schedule at http://www.oneworldfilmfestival.com/. (For more detailed info about the series and the films, go to http://oneworldfilmfestival.com/_wsn/page2.html.)
** Thurs/Feb.23 - Eef Barzelay @ CD Central
Eef Barzelay, the lead singer/songwriter of indie rock band Clem Snide, will present an intimate acoustic show at CD Central, 377 S. Limestone, next Thursday, February 23 at 6pm. The show will come two days after the national release of his new solo CD, Bitter Honey (on Spinart Records), and will be his only Lexington appearance before heading out on a West Coast tour. The performance is FREE and open to all ages.
** “Know Your Own” volume 2
Awight … KYO2, the FREE Action Arts/WRFL/CD Central-produced Lexington music compilation featuring 29 bands including the Elephants, the Parlour Boys, High Water Marks, Cunninlynguists, RC PRO AM, City Mouse, Petticoat, Petticoat, Warmer Milks, Marbles, the Scourge of the Sea, Eyes and Arms of Smoke, In Endeavors Italya, The Dialectics, Ideal Free Distribution, the Oxford Farm Report, is out and about. You can pick up a hard copy of the disc (which features beautiful cover art by Cricket Press) at CD Central, Alfalfa restaurant, Jonk, and Third Street Stuff, or head straight to http://wrfl881.org to download the full record.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: THE PICKS :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
::::::::: Wednesday, February 15 through Wednesday, February 29 :::::::::::
:: Wednesday, February 15 ::
ELEPHANTS w/THE CAPES @ The Dame
9pm, ages 21+, $5
The Elephants are an important force in Lexington's burgeoning music scene. Directly descended from legendary bands like Television, the Elephants have filtered their hard-edged punk attitude through tight pop aesthetics. In their case, though, their "punk" attitude is backed by skilled musicians, and their pop is not bubble gum, it is the "pop" of poetry that hits you full in the face with the recognition of something real and something so fucking right! – Michael Benton
Hear the Elephants for yourself at http://www.myspace.com/theelephants.
:: Friday, February 17 ::
GALLERY HOP! at locations all over downtown Lexington
5-8pm, all ages, FREE
The first Hop of the ‘06. Sure there’s a lot of good stuff going on, but I’m not hip to all the info. Here are two quick recommendations – “Memento” at ArtsPlace, 161 N. Mill St (http://www.lexarts.org) and Lynda Hoff and Steven Holbrook at Gallerie Soleil, W. Short near Broadway.
:: Friday, February 17 ::
MUDBOY w/YOMUL YUK, WARMER MILKS, and SARA O’KEEFE
@ The Frowny Bear, 208 Forest Park Rd
9pm, all ages, donations accepted for traveling bands
This one’s going to be great noisy fun. Sorry, I don’t have the words for it right now. Check out the links and plan on making this house party your after-Hop stop. http://www.mudboymusic.com, http://www.mudboymusic.com/yomulyuk.html, http://www.warmermilks.com, http://www.cenotaph.org/eyesandarms.
:: Sunday, February 19 ::
LUPAS 002 – performances by THREE LEGGED RACE, IRENE MOON, and JORDAN MUNSON/COLIN CAMPBELL and a sonic meditation led by FAHAD SIADAT @ Underlying Themes, 110 S. Upper – 7-9pm, all ages, FREE (donations accepted)
The second show in the new Lexington Underground Performing Arts Series. Three Legged Race = experimental electronic composition by Robert Beatty of the Hair Police and Eyes and Arms of Smoke. Irene Moon’s set will also be on the experimental electronic end of things. Jordan Munson and Colin Campbell will perform a percussion duet. Fahad Siadat will open the proceedings by leading the audience in a sonic meditation. [Full Disclosure: I helped organize this show.]
:: Monday, February 20 ::
Mardi Gras Parade Decorating Party sponsored by NOUGAT Magazine @ The Dame
8pm, ages 21+, FREE
A chance to get prepared for the Mardi Gras Parade while getting your drink on with some of the personalities behind our local arts monthly Nougat magazine. The decorating party will start at 8pm and likely run ‘til 10 or so. Art and crafty supplies will be provided. http://www.lexingtonmardigrasparade.com.
:: Tuesday, February 21 ::
BR549 w/THE AVETT BROTHERS @ The Dame
8pm, ages 21+, $5
The Avett Brothers bring the rock with their fist pumping, foot stomping, and booty shaking bluegrass rock! Their songs weave stories by using Americana rhetoric with love loss and realized but rarely ever found. The Avett's wrap this little bluegrass package up with the energy and emotions of any punk or hardcore band by each member adding their own unique flare to the set. Bob will be spinning his stand up bass, Seth will be wrecking a high hat while working his guitar and Scott will be kicking the hell out of a kick drum while playing the banjo and blowing the harmonica; the Avett Brothers leave it all out on the stage. Just a simple 3-person band has the full sound of 6 people and the energy of 10.
If you have not cheeked out the Avett Brothers on any of their other previous stops to Lexington I am afraid to say that you have missed the small intimate show (the iron and wine phenom). Next week’s show is sure to be a sellout especially with the addition of BR549 to the bill. The Avett Brothers will play first with BR549 rounding out the night with an equal length set. Come for the Avett Brothers but stick around for BR549. - Tim Buckingham
http://www.theavettbrothers.com/
::Thursday, February 23 ::
DYNASTY w/ ATTEMPT, HEART2HEART, and THREE LEGGED RACE @ Underlying Themes
9pm, all ages, $3
Be sure to stop by the Underlying Themes next Thursday for some hot rocking muck courtesy of the following muckrakers –
DYNASTY, a four piece specializing in "shit metal" (their words), featuring members of Kites, JKAE, Byron House,etc). ATTEMPT, a quartet whose sound is a spot on collison of Steely Dan & classic SST wrecking crews like Minutemen & Saccharine Trust, feat. members of Hair Police, Warmer Milks, LFUCS, Void,etc (LEX DEBUT OMG). [Check out some free sounds at http://www.myspace.com/attempt.] HEART2HEART - 2 girls from Providence getting down to what's real, gleaming the cube w/surging electronics & out vocal styles. THREE LEGGED RACE - excellent psychedelic electronic compositions from Hair Police/Eyes & Arms of Smoke/Sparks member/dude Rob Beatty. http://www.dronedisco.com/threeleggedrace. - Daryl Cook
:: Saturday, February 25 ::
Lexington’s 3rd Annual MARDI GRAS JAZZ PARADE
starting at the corner of Mill and Short Sts - 6pm, all ages, FREE
Parade After-Party @ ArtsPlace, 161 N. Mill St
featuring short performances by Burnt Sugar and Mecca’s Samba dancers and drummers
immediately following the parade (around 6:30pm), all ages, FREE
Parade After-After Party aka The Dame’s Mardi Gras Party with performances by BURNT SUGAR and ISWHAT?! and FREE Cajun food and King Cake from Gumbo Ya Ya @ The Dame, 156 W. Main – doors at 8pm, ages 21+, $8
Here’s your way out from the winter blahs (yeah, I know the weather’s fabulous today, but I bet there are still some blahs built up) and a chance to celebrate absurdity and creativity. The Mardi Gras Jazz Parade isn’t a city-organized parade. It’s put together by artists and fun loving community folks who love a good spectacle. The gray that’s held sway over the city skies so long will be gone on the 25th. Expect eye-popping colors and costumes, rhythmic pounding and horns blaring hopeful melodies, painted faces, giant puppets, dancing robots, Samba dancers and drummers - an undulating mess of happiness in the streets of Lexington. The featured guests this year are Burnt Sugar, a 14 piece multi-cultural big band from NYC. The sound is sure to mix tradition with futuristic funk and jazz. Don’t know what they’ve got planned for the parade, but the after-after party at the Dame should be the full freak funk/jazz mix - think Sun Ra Arkestra (last year’s parade leaders) meets “Bitches Brew”-era Miles Davis meets Sly and the Family Stone. Add to that FREE grub from Gumbo Ya Ya and you’ve got a full-on party. Not to be missed. http://www.burntsugarindex.com, http://www.lexingtonmardigrasparade.com
[Full Disclosure: I helped organize the parade and after parties.]
:: Sunday, February 26 ::
OF MONTREAL w/MARBLES @ Southgate House (Newport, KY)
doors 8pm/show 9pm, ages 18+, $10 adv/$12 at the door
An evening of Elephant 6 pop in Newport. Of Montreal = exuberant psychedelic pop that bounces bubbles and makes my heart soar. Marbles = Robert Schneider of the Apples in Stereo’s electro-pop solo project. http://www.ofmontreal.net, http://www.myspace.com/marbles
:: Monday, February 27 ::
EDITH FROST w/THE ZINCS and SLO-FI @ The Dame
8pm, ages 21+, $5
Edith Frost = beautifully melancholy Chicago songwriter. Recommended if you like Bill Santen/birddog, Low, Joanna Newsom, or Will Oldham/Bonnie ‘Prince’ Billy. http://edithfrost.com/
:: Also worthwhile in the February 15-March 1 timeframe ::
Every Friday RAKADU GYPSY DANCE @ Nema’s Grille (Frankfort, KY) – all ages
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
Sat/Feb 18 THE SMACKS! w/RICHARD JAMES & THE SPECIAL RIDERS @ High Life Lounge
Wed/Feb 22 THE NORTH MISSISSIPPI ALLSTARS @ The Dame
Thurs/Feb 23 COLDPLAY w/FIONA APPLE @ Freedom Hall (Louisville)
Fri/Feb 24 WITCHDOCTOR w/CUNNINLYNGUISTS @ The Dame
Tues/Feb 28 EDITH FROST w/THE ZINCS @ Headliners (Louisville)
:: Soon Soon ::
Fri/Mar 3 MOGWAI w/GROWING @ The Dame
Sun/Mar 5 PAGE FRANCE w/PETTICOAT, PETTICOAT @ The Dame – ages 18+
Thurs/Mar 9 BELLE AND SEBASTIAN w/THE NEW PORNOGRAPHERS @ Brown Theatre (Louisville)
Sat/Mar 11 TED LEO & THE PHARMACISTS @ Southgate House (Newport, KY)
Sun/Mar 12 TONY CONRAD w/RHYS CHATHAM and JONATHAN KANE @ The Dame – ages 18+
Mon/Mar 13 THE MENDOZA LINE w/GREAT LAKE SWIMMERS and ELLIOT BROOD @ The Dame
Fri/Mar 24 ERIN McKEOWN TRIO w/MELISSA FERRICK @ Southgate House (Newport, KY)
Sat/Mar 25 THE FEATURES w/THE APPARITIONS @ The Dame
Sun/Mar 26 MY WAY MY LOVE @ The Dame – ages 18+
Fri/Mar 31 BOB MOULD @ Southgate House (Newport, KY)
Tues/Apr 4 HALF HANDED CLOUD w/LIZ JANES + CREATE! @ Underlying Themes, 110 S. Upper – all ages
Wed/Apr 5 THE BRUNETTES w/CLAP YOUR HANDS SAY YEAH @ Southgate House (Newport, KY)
Thurs/Apr 13 JOSEPHINE FOSTER AND THE SUPPOSED w/DAVE REMPIS PERCUSSION QUARTET @ Mecca – all ages
Wed/Apr 19 AB BAARS QUARTET @ Underlying Themes – all ages
Thurs/Apr 20 ENON @ Southgate House (Newport, KY)
:: Pertinent resources ::
__Lexington__
THE DAME, 156 W.Main St, Lexington - http://www.dameky.com
MECCA dance 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.org
FIREBIRD STUDIO, 359 W. Short St – http://firebirdlexington.com
HIGH LIFE LOUNGE, University Plaza (corner of Rose and Euclid) – ph. 859/455-8890
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) - http://www.lexingtonshows.com
COUNTER FICTION (metal/punk/hardcore 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.productionsimple.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
My apologies for the late and, at times, ragged Lex Pro. Struggled to find the motivation to sit in front of the computer on such a beautiful day. Thanks to Michael Benton, Tim Buckingham, and Daryl Cook for help with the Picks. Two packed weekends coming up including Gallery Hop this weekend and the Mardi Gras Jazz Parade next. Get out and shake off those winter blues. Hope all are well.
Ross
:::::::::::::::::::::::: Announcements :::::::::::::::::::::::::::
** Sat/Feb. 25 – Lexington’s 3rd Annual Mardi Gras Jazz Parade
Mecca:Live Studio and Gallery and the Lexington Action Arts Collective present Lexington’s 3rd Annual Mardi Gras Jazz Parade, Saturday, February 25th at 6pm. An artist-organized people’s parade, this year’s event will be led by the 14 piece New York City jazz band Burnt Sugar (think Sun Ra Arkestra meets ‘Bitches Brew’-era Miles Davis meets Sly and the Family Stone).
> Parade Route
The parade will begin at the corner of Mill and Short Sts, then move down Mill to Main, east on Main to Limestone, north on Limestone to Short, and west on Short back to Mill St.
> After-party
An all-ages after-party will be held immediately following the parade in the performance hall at ArtsPlace, 161 N. Mill St (just a block from the parade’s ending point). The party will feature a performance by Burnt Sugar, a performance by Mecca’s Samba dancers and drummers, prizes for the most outrageous/creative parade participants (including the crowning of the parade King and Queen), free King Cake and refreshments and more. The party is free and open to everyone.
> After-after-party
The official after-after-party is an ages 21+ celebration at the Dame. The party will feature full-length performances by NYC avant-big band Burnt Sugar (www.burntsugarindex.com) and Cincinnati jazz/hip hop trio ISWHAT?! (www.iswhat.net), as well as FREE Cajun food (including a vegetarian option) and King Cake from Gumbo Ya Ya. Doors for the after-after-party open at 8pm. Admission is $8.
> Participation
The parade is a walking/people powered (i.e. no motorized vehicle) people’s parade. All are invited to join the fun. There’s no fee for participation, so come get silly with your friends and neighbors. For more information on how you can get involved, visit www.lexingtonmardigrasparade.com. Questions? Contact Mecca at info@meccadance.com or by phone at 254/9790.
> Community Decorating Parties
(1) citizensCREATE (www.citizenscreate.org - info@citizencreate.org), a local non-profit arts group, will facilitate a decorating party aimed at children Saturday, Feb.18th from 2:30-4pm at Mecca dance studio/gallery, 451 Chair Ave (just off S. Broadway near Bolivar). All ages are invited. Some decorating supplies will be provided, but folks are always encouraged to bring more.
(2) Our friends at Nougat magazine will host a decorating party Monday, Feb.20th beginning at 8pm at the Dame. Again, supplies will be provided. It’s a free event. Ages 21+ admitted.
The parade is sponsored by a lot of wonderful community-minded groups and businesses including WRFL 88.1FM, LexArts, Latitude Arts, citizensCREATE!, the UK Office of African-American Student Affairs, Isle of You boutique, Gumbo Ya Ya restaurant, Nougat magazine, and Firebird Studio and Gallery.
** Final weekend for Actor’s Guild’s production of “The Story” @ the Downtown Arts Center
I don’t get out to see much local theater, but I caught this play a couple weekends ago and enjoyed it. A very provocative work. I’d encourage everyone to check it out. For a synopsis, showtimes, etc, check out http://www.actorsguildoflexington.org.
** 2006 One World Film Festival
The One World Film Festival, an annual festival dedicated to stimulating discussion, exploring ideas and increasing understanding of issues of race, gender, culture, ethnicity, and sexual orientation, kicked off last weekend with a screening of the Iranian film “Children of Heaven.” This week, it continues with two FREE screenings (all the films in the festival are free and open to the public) - Thursday, Feb.16 with “Travellers & Magicians” (at the theater space inside the Central Branch of the Lexington Public Library on Main at7:30pm) and, on Sunday, the 19th, a double bill of “Daddy and Papa” and “Out In the Heartland” (also at the Central Library Theater at 2pm). Next week, it’s David LaChapelle’s documentary “Rize” and the Afghani film “Osama”. You can find the full schedule at http://www.oneworldfilmfestival.com/. (For more detailed info about the series and the films, go to http://oneworldfilmfestival.com/_wsn/page2.html.)
** Thurs/Feb.23 - Eef Barzelay @ CD Central
Eef Barzelay, the lead singer/songwriter of indie rock band Clem Snide, will present an intimate acoustic show at CD Central, 377 S. Limestone, next Thursday, February 23 at 6pm. The show will come two days after the national release of his new solo CD, Bitter Honey (on Spinart Records), and will be his only Lexington appearance before heading out on a West Coast tour. The performance is FREE and open to all ages.
** “Know Your Own” volume 2
Awight … KYO2, the FREE Action Arts/WRFL/CD Central-produced Lexington music compilation featuring 29 bands including the Elephants, the Parlour Boys, High Water Marks, Cunninlynguists, RC PRO AM, City Mouse, Petticoat, Petticoat, Warmer Milks, Marbles, the Scourge of the Sea, Eyes and Arms of Smoke, In Endeavors Italya, The Dialectics, Ideal Free Distribution, the Oxford Farm Report, is out and about. You can pick up a hard copy of the disc (which features beautiful cover art by Cricket Press) at CD Central, Alfalfa restaurant, Jonk, and Third Street Stuff, or head straight to http://wrfl881.org to download the full record.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: THE PICKS :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
::::::::: Wednesday, February 15 through Wednesday, February 29 :::::::::::
:: Wednesday, February 15 ::
ELEPHANTS w/THE CAPES @ The Dame
9pm, ages 21+, $5
The Elephants are an important force in Lexington's burgeoning music scene. Directly descended from legendary bands like Television, the Elephants have filtered their hard-edged punk attitude through tight pop aesthetics. In their case, though, their "punk" attitude is backed by skilled musicians, and their pop is not bubble gum, it is the "pop" of poetry that hits you full in the face with the recognition of something real and something so fucking right! – Michael Benton
Hear the Elephants for yourself at http://www.myspace.com/theelephants.
:: Friday, February 17 ::
GALLERY HOP! at locations all over downtown Lexington
5-8pm, all ages, FREE
The first Hop of the ‘06. Sure there’s a lot of good stuff going on, but I’m not hip to all the info. Here are two quick recommendations – “Memento” at ArtsPlace, 161 N. Mill St (http://www.lexarts.org) and Lynda Hoff and Steven Holbrook at Gallerie Soleil, W. Short near Broadway.
:: Friday, February 17 ::
MUDBOY w/YOMUL YUK, WARMER MILKS, and SARA O’KEEFE
@ The Frowny Bear, 208 Forest Park Rd
9pm, all ages, donations accepted for traveling bands
This one’s going to be great noisy fun. Sorry, I don’t have the words for it right now. Check out the links and plan on making this house party your after-Hop stop. http://www.mudboymusic.com, http://www.mudboymusic.com/yomulyuk.html, http://www.warmermilks.com, http://www.cenotaph.org/eyesandarms.
:: Sunday, February 19 ::
LUPAS 002 – performances by THREE LEGGED RACE, IRENE MOON, and JORDAN MUNSON/COLIN CAMPBELL and a sonic meditation led by FAHAD SIADAT @ Underlying Themes, 110 S. Upper – 7-9pm, all ages, FREE (donations accepted)
The second show in the new Lexington Underground Performing Arts Series. Three Legged Race = experimental electronic composition by Robert Beatty of the Hair Police and Eyes and Arms of Smoke. Irene Moon’s set will also be on the experimental electronic end of things. Jordan Munson and Colin Campbell will perform a percussion duet. Fahad Siadat will open the proceedings by leading the audience in a sonic meditation. [Full Disclosure: I helped organize this show.]
:: Monday, February 20 ::
Mardi Gras Parade Decorating Party sponsored by NOUGAT Magazine @ The Dame
8pm, ages 21+, FREE
A chance to get prepared for the Mardi Gras Parade while getting your drink on with some of the personalities behind our local arts monthly Nougat magazine. The decorating party will start at 8pm and likely run ‘til 10 or so. Art and crafty supplies will be provided. http://www.lexingtonmardigrasparade.com.
:: Tuesday, February 21 ::
BR549 w/THE AVETT BROTHERS @ The Dame
8pm, ages 21+, $5
The Avett Brothers bring the rock with their fist pumping, foot stomping, and booty shaking bluegrass rock! Their songs weave stories by using Americana rhetoric with love loss and realized but rarely ever found. The Avett's wrap this little bluegrass package up with the energy and emotions of any punk or hardcore band by each member adding their own unique flare to the set. Bob will be spinning his stand up bass, Seth will be wrecking a high hat while working his guitar and Scott will be kicking the hell out of a kick drum while playing the banjo and blowing the harmonica; the Avett Brothers leave it all out on the stage. Just a simple 3-person band has the full sound of 6 people and the energy of 10.
If you have not cheeked out the Avett Brothers on any of their other previous stops to Lexington I am afraid to say that you have missed the small intimate show (the iron and wine phenom). Next week’s show is sure to be a sellout especially with the addition of BR549 to the bill. The Avett Brothers will play first with BR549 rounding out the night with an equal length set. Come for the Avett Brothers but stick around for BR549. - Tim Buckingham
http://www.theavettbrothers.com/
::Thursday, February 23 ::
DYNASTY w/ ATTEMPT, HEART2HEART, and THREE LEGGED RACE @ Underlying Themes
9pm, all ages, $3
Be sure to stop by the Underlying Themes next Thursday for some hot rocking muck courtesy of the following muckrakers –
DYNASTY, a four piece specializing in "shit metal" (their words), featuring members of Kites, JKAE, Byron House,etc). ATTEMPT, a quartet whose sound is a spot on collison of Steely Dan & classic SST wrecking crews like Minutemen & Saccharine Trust, feat. members of Hair Police, Warmer Milks, LFUCS, Void,etc (LEX DEBUT OMG). [Check out some free sounds at http://www.myspace.com/attempt.] HEART2HEART - 2 girls from Providence getting down to what's real, gleaming the cube w/surging electronics & out vocal styles. THREE LEGGED RACE - excellent psychedelic electronic compositions from Hair Police/Eyes & Arms of Smoke/Sparks member/dude Rob Beatty. http://www.dronedisco.com/threeleggedrace. - Daryl Cook
:: Saturday, February 25 ::
Lexington’s 3rd Annual MARDI GRAS JAZZ PARADE
starting at the corner of Mill and Short Sts - 6pm, all ages, FREE
Parade After-Party @ ArtsPlace, 161 N. Mill St
featuring short performances by Burnt Sugar and Mecca’s Samba dancers and drummers
immediately following the parade (around 6:30pm), all ages, FREE
Parade After-After Party aka The Dame’s Mardi Gras Party with performances by BURNT SUGAR and ISWHAT?! and FREE Cajun food and King Cake from Gumbo Ya Ya @ The Dame, 156 W. Main – doors at 8pm, ages 21+, $8
Here’s your way out from the winter blahs (yeah, I know the weather’s fabulous today, but I bet there are still some blahs built up) and a chance to celebrate absurdity and creativity. The Mardi Gras Jazz Parade isn’t a city-organized parade. It’s put together by artists and fun loving community folks who love a good spectacle. The gray that’s held sway over the city skies so long will be gone on the 25th. Expect eye-popping colors and costumes, rhythmic pounding and horns blaring hopeful melodies, painted faces, giant puppets, dancing robots, Samba dancers and drummers - an undulating mess of happiness in the streets of Lexington. The featured guests this year are Burnt Sugar, a 14 piece multi-cultural big band from NYC. The sound is sure to mix tradition with futuristic funk and jazz. Don’t know what they’ve got planned for the parade, but the after-after party at the Dame should be the full freak funk/jazz mix - think Sun Ra Arkestra (last year’s parade leaders) meets “Bitches Brew”-era Miles Davis meets Sly and the Family Stone. Add to that FREE grub from Gumbo Ya Ya and you’ve got a full-on party. Not to be missed. http://www.burntsugarindex.com, http://www.lexingtonmardigrasparade.com
[Full Disclosure: I helped organize the parade and after parties.]
:: Sunday, February 26 ::
OF MONTREAL w/MARBLES @ Southgate House (Newport, KY)
doors 8pm/show 9pm, ages 18+, $10 adv/$12 at the door
An evening of Elephant 6 pop in Newport. Of Montreal = exuberant psychedelic pop that bounces bubbles and makes my heart soar. Marbles = Robert Schneider of the Apples in Stereo’s electro-pop solo project. http://www.ofmontreal.net, http://www.myspace.com/marbles
:: Monday, February 27 ::
EDITH FROST w/THE ZINCS and SLO-FI @ The Dame
8pm, ages 21+, $5
Edith Frost = beautifully melancholy Chicago songwriter. Recommended if you like Bill Santen/birddog, Low, Joanna Newsom, or Will Oldham/Bonnie ‘Prince’ Billy. http://edithfrost.com/
:: Also worthwhile in the February 15-March 1 timeframe ::
Every Friday RAKADU GYPSY DANCE @ Nema’s Grille (Frankfort, KY) – all ages
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
Sat/Feb 18 THE SMACKS! w/RICHARD JAMES & THE SPECIAL RIDERS @ High Life Lounge
Wed/Feb 22 THE NORTH MISSISSIPPI ALLSTARS @ The Dame
Thurs/Feb 23 COLDPLAY w/FIONA APPLE @ Freedom Hall (Louisville)
Fri/Feb 24 WITCHDOCTOR w/CUNNINLYNGUISTS @ The Dame
Tues/Feb 28 EDITH FROST w/THE ZINCS @ Headliners (Louisville)
:: Soon Soon ::
Fri/Mar 3 MOGWAI w/GROWING @ The Dame
Sun/Mar 5 PAGE FRANCE w/PETTICOAT, PETTICOAT @ The Dame – ages 18+
Thurs/Mar 9 BELLE AND SEBASTIAN w/THE NEW PORNOGRAPHERS @ Brown Theatre (Louisville)
Sat/Mar 11 TED LEO & THE PHARMACISTS @ Southgate House (Newport, KY)
Sun/Mar 12 TONY CONRAD w/RHYS CHATHAM and JONATHAN KANE @ The Dame – ages 18+
Mon/Mar 13 THE MENDOZA LINE w/GREAT LAKE SWIMMERS and ELLIOT BROOD @ The Dame
Fri/Mar 24 ERIN McKEOWN TRIO w/MELISSA FERRICK @ Southgate House (Newport, KY)
Sat/Mar 25 THE FEATURES w/THE APPARITIONS @ The Dame
Sun/Mar 26 MY WAY MY LOVE @ The Dame – ages 18+
Fri/Mar 31 BOB MOULD @ Southgate House (Newport, KY)
Tues/Apr 4 HALF HANDED CLOUD w/LIZ JANES + CREATE! @ Underlying Themes, 110 S. Upper – all ages
Wed/Apr 5 THE BRUNETTES w/CLAP YOUR HANDS SAY YEAH @ Southgate House (Newport, KY)
Thurs/Apr 13 JOSEPHINE FOSTER AND THE SUPPOSED w/DAVE REMPIS PERCUSSION QUARTET @ Mecca – all ages
Wed/Apr 19 AB BAARS QUARTET @ Underlying Themes – all ages
Thurs/Apr 20 ENON @ Southgate House (Newport, KY)
:: Pertinent resources ::
__Lexington__
THE DAME, 156 W.Main St, Lexington - http://www.dameky.com
MECCA dance 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.org
FIREBIRD STUDIO, 359 W. Short St – http://firebirdlexington.com
HIGH LIFE LOUNGE, University Plaza (corner of Rose and Euclid) – ph. 859/455-8890
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) - http://www.lexingtonshows.com
COUNTER FICTION (metal/punk/hardcore 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.productionsimple.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
Wednesday, February 01, 2006
TLP February 1, 2006
Hey, peeps.
Here's the Project. Tons to do. Thanks to Dickie Haydon, Reese Richardson, Brian Connors Manke, Matt Jordan, and Mikey T for helping sort it out.
Hope all are well.
Ross
:::::::::::::::::::::::: Announcements :::::::::::::::::::::::::::
** “Know Your Own” volume 2
Coming soon! CD Central, WRFL, and the Lexington Action Arts Collective present "Know Your Own" vol.2 - a FREE compilation featuring 29 Lexington bands including the Elephants, the Parlour Boys, High Water Marks, Cunninlynguists, RC PRO AM, City Mouse, Petticoat, Petticoat, Warmer Milks, Marbles, the Scourge of the Sea, Eyes and Arms of Smoke, In Endeavors Italya, The Dialectics, Ideal Free Distribution, the Oxford Farm Report, and more! Put it on your calendar now - we'll celebrate the release of the disc next Friday, February 10th with an all ages party at Underlying Themes featuring performances by the Elephants, Thee American Revolution (a new band from Robert Schneider of the Apples in Stereo), Irene Moon, RC PRO AM, and Petticoat, Petticoat. (Checkout the Picks for full details about the release party.)
** Sat/Sun, February 4 & 5 - ‘Dance of Enticement’ & Ikebana workshops @ Mecca
Mecca will presents their annual pre-Valentine’s Day “Dance of Enticement Workshop” Saturday February 4th, from 2-4pm. Workshop-ers will learn a beautifully alluring dance based in the ancient arts of middle eastern and classical Indian dance art forms. All skill levels are invited. The workshop fee is $25 in advance or $30 at the door. If you’re interested in making a two-day weekend of it, the studio will offer an Ikebana workshop, Sunday, February 5th, from 11am-1pm. Ikebana, the ancient Japanese art of contemplative flower arranging, “combines the products of nature with human creativity to open a path of discovery that reconnects us with the ordinary magic of our world.” The workshop fee is $45 (which includes the cost of materials). Pre-registration for the Ikebana workshop has been moved back to this Friday, February 3rd. NOTE: There’s a package discount if you do both workshops. $65 gets you into both. Also, students taking one or both workshops will recieve a $20.00 coupon good toward a 90-minute Couple's Massage at 2121 Richmond Road, Suite 212, or a $10.00 coupon toward a 60 or 75-minute Couple's Massage session. Each Couples' Massage Session includes luxurious side-by-side massages in a beautiful suite, complete with aromatherapy, inscense, soft music and candle light, and of course, decadent chocolate. For more info or to register for one or both of the workshops, drop a line to info@meccadance.com or call 254-9790.
** Tues/Feb. 7 - Screening of "Democracy Ghosts" at the Central Branch of the Lex. Public Library
Kentuckians for the Commonwealth will host a screening of the documentary film “Democracy’s Ghosts,” Tuesday, February 7th at 7pm in the theater at the Central Branch of the Lexington Public Library, 140 E. Main St (corner of Main and Limestone). The short film (jushttp://www.blogger.com/img/gl.link.gift over a half-hour) spends time with people who are living their lives as legal ghosts and have lost the right to vote because of felony convictions. Kentucky is one of just three states that permanently prevents all former-felons from voting unless they get a pardon from the Governor. KFTC and others are lobbying to pass a Constitutional Amendment to allow for automatic restoration of voting rights upon completion of prison time, probation, and parole. Stick around after the film for a discussion about our campaign to restore voting rights to former felons who have served their debt to society in Kentucky. The screening is FREE and open to all ages. For more information about the film, visit www.democracysghosts.com. For more information about KFTC, visit . NOTE: "Democracy Ghosts" is available for additional showings. If you have a group or organization you would like to show it to, contact Janet Tucker at jlynjenks@qx.net.
** Upcoming Events @ Natasha’s Café
A few interesting events coming up at Natasha’s Café, 112 Esplanade (just off Main St, across from the Kentucky Theater). Reservations are encouraged – call 259-2754.
> Friday, Feb. 3 – Alma Gitana (Gypsy Soul) performs the music of some of Spain's most progressive Flamenco fusion groups (and an occasional Gypsy Kings song or two). Two sets beginning at 8 & 10pm. $5 cover.
> Saturday, Feb. 4 – Mecca’s acclaimed Rakadu Gypsy Dance present an evening of tribal fusion belly dance. Show begins at 8pm. $5 cover.
> Thursday, Feb. 9 - Beyond the Book w/ Neil Chethik – an evening with the author of “VOICEMALE: What Husbands Really Think About Their Marriages, Their Wives, Sex, Housework, and Commitment.” 7:30pm. $25 includes dinner.
> Friday & Saturday, Feb. 10 & 11 – “Surprise Theatre,” Balagula Theater’s organic theater experience that weaves in and out of the evening and may leave you wondering if that demonstrative jackass at the next table is part of the performance or just a jackass. Seating at 7:30pm. Donations accepted. NOTE: Surprise Theater will also pop up on Valentine’s Day with a series of “the most romantic one-act plays (they) could find.” Seatings from 7-9pm. $45 per person includes dinner.
** Valentine’s Dinner Special @ Alfalfa
Alfalfa, 141 E. Main (adjacent to the Downtown Arts Center, directly across the street from the public library), is opening up Valentine’s night with a special deal for couples. $50 gets you any two entrees, one bottle of wine, and one dessert to share. (NOTE: The $50 doesn’t include gratuity or the cost of the escort service.) It’s an ideal package for peeps looking for a romantic spot without the pretense and expense of white cloth romantic dining. It’ll be like Alfalfa always is, elegant but low-key. Adding to the ambience, you’ve got a string trio led by Alfalf-er Abbye Tackett. Here’s a peak at the specials (the entire regular menu will be available too): (1) Roasted Macadamia Stuffed Trout wrapped in banana leaves with red curry sauce, plantains, and sweet potato straws, (2) Buckwheat Crepes with mixed mushrooms, fried leeks, and roasted red pepper cream, (3) Cornmeal Crusted Chicken Breast with bourbon pecan butter and fried julienned sweet potatoes. Dinner is from 5:30-9pm. The restaurant is accepting reservations (phone 253-0014) but they aren’t required. For a look at the Alfalfa menu, visit http://www.alfalfarestaurant.com.
** Mardi Gras Jazz Parade
Yup, we’ve been publishing notices about organizational meetings and what not for the Mardi Gras parade for a while. Now, on to the good stuff. YOU need to get off your ass and get into this parade! This is a people’s parade – a walking/people powered (i.e. no motorized vehicles, but bicycles are OK) romp through the streets, a celebration of … well … celebrating. Grab a group of friends, come up with a theme, costume yourselves, and join the fun. So far we’ve got confirmation of a cardboard robot brigade, a group of Samba dancers and drummers, and a music-making bicycle gang! (Note: If you want to join any of those groups, drop me a line at informationactivists@yahoo.com and I’ll put you in touch with the right people.) There’s no registration fee at all. The parade date is Saturday, February 25th. Groups are asked to register by Saturday, February 18th (send an email to info@meccadance.com - it’s just so we can work out the lineup for the parade). Individual revelers are welcome to just show up on the 25th and fly their freak flags. For full details, go to http://lexingtonmardigrasparade.blogspot.com. C’mon … you know you want to …
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: THE PICKS :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
::::::::: Wednesday, February 01 through Wednesday, February 15 :::::::::::
:: Wednesday, February 1 ::http://www.blogger.com/img/gl.link.gif
QMR-PLUS w/TRYPTAMINE @ The Dame
9pm, ages 21+, $5
A rare jazz event at The Dame. QMR-plus = a young quartet (sax, bass, vibes, drums) formed in New Orleans and transplanted to Chicago following Katrina. Sound-wise, the quartet’s home was always closer to the new Chicago sound as exemplified by Ken Vandermark et al. Expect a lively night of melodic free jazz. For more info and FREE sounds, check out and http://myspace.com/qmrplus. Tryptamine = electro-acoustic experimentation from (the newly sheered) Chook Moreland (aka psychoactivesound, the dude behind Underlying Themes), Dewitt Snyder (aka birthday girl), and Tyler Little (of Sexual Disaster Quartet). More info – http://myspace.com/tryptamine.
:: Thursday, February 2 ::
FEIST w/JASON COLLETT @ Headliners (Louisville)
9pm, ages 18+, $12
As Americans we are constantly reminded of the stereotypical exports of Canada...hockey, beer, syndicated TV series, the word, 'eh.' However, a creatively exciting music scene is often overlooked. That's right, I'm talking about Alanis Morisette, Avril Lavigne, Nickelback, Sum 41...alright, just kidding. If you're even slightly familiar with current, independent music then you're well aware of what our neighbors to the north have been up to for the past couple of years. Arts & Crafts Records has brought us such artists as Broken Social Scene and Stars; this past year everyone was talking about Wolf Parade, and you'd have to have been living under a rock to not know what The Arcade Fire is.
However, the music scenes in Montréal and, most notably, Toronto are still giving birth to incredible sounds...and one of the must stunning is that of Leslie Feist. Performing under just her last name, Feist moved to Toronto at the age of 20 to begin her musical career. She is most recognized for being a founding member of the aforementioned Broken Social Scene, but her solo work has recently been getting an equal amount of attention, and rightfully so. Feist released her 2nd album, Let It Die, in the fall of 2004 on Arts & Crafts Records. Recorded in Paris, these 11 songs journey through a plethora of genres, including folk, pop, rock, disco, and doo-wop. Be that as it may, the most noticeable attribute of the album is Feist's voice. With an incredibly unique timbre that suggests, "The Girl From Ipanema," she calls back to time periods of multiple decades past.
I had the pleasure of seeing Feist this past November, open for none other than Mr. Oberst, himself. It is without question that she completely stole the show with one of the most incredibly entertaining live performances I have ever attended. The barely-there arrangements, high energy presentation, and on-stage banter made seeing her a more than enjoyable experience.
For more information as well as free mp3's of Feist, you can go to http://www.listentofeist.com or http://www.myspace.com/feist.
– Dickie Haydon
:: Friday, February 3 ::
Screening of “Untitled (Silver)” by Takeshi Murata and performances by ELLEN MOLLE, SARA O’KEEFE, and WARMER MILKS @ Charles Mansion – email charlesmansion@hotmail.com for directions
9:30pm (sharp!), all ages, FREE (donations accepted for performers)
A screening of artist Takeshi Murata’s digital video installation “Untitled (Silver)“ which features a soundtrack by Robert Beatty and Ellen Molle (half of the group Eyes and Arms of Smoke) and a series of short (less than 15 minute) solo performances by Molle (a short performance art piece), Sara O’Keefe (another Eyes and Arms member playing a soundtrack to animation by O’Keefe and Irene Moon), and Warmer Milks (a solo set by Mikey T). For more info about the video, visit http://www.ratio3.org/murata_2.htm. Note: Word has come via the Charles Mansion mailing list that, he lineup will run as follows – Warmer Milks first, then the screening of “Untitled (Silver),” then the performances by Molle and O’Keefe. Don’t be late! The whole show will likely be over before 11:30.
:: Sunday, February 5 ::
THE VANDERMARK 5 @ Underlying Themes, 110 S. Upper (above Buster’s, entrance next to Mia’s)
two sets starting at 7pm, all ages welcome, $5
As an avid music listener and performing musician, it is very apparent to me that the boundaries of musical genre are adamantly adhered to. Those who choose to step beyond these limitations are considered illegitimate and are promptly excommunicated from the realm of "understandable" creativity. These boundaries have been restricting musicians since Mozart. The greatest movements in art were first thought of as a secession from the trends of the period in order attempt to be different or radical. Time being the greatest test of a work of art shows us that most of these secessions were not mere attempts to pursue attention but imperative works that spoke the voice of their generation.
The first time I heard the Vandermark 5 was in the summer of 2004. This experience is etched in my memory as one of the most innovative performances our humble town has ever seen. This was my introduction to the likes of modern 'free jazz' players. I will admit, I was very skeptical at first. However, upon seeing that their focus was not to rehash the past but to move forward in musical genre, I was left feeling inspired and in awe of their honesty. They have been passed the torch once carried by the likes of Dolphy, Ornette, and Mingus. Ken Vandermark is leading our generation's musical secession. Come be apart of something greater than yourself. On Sunday February 5th at 7 o'clock, f*!? the Super Bowl; the Vandermark 5 will be performing at the Underlying Themes Loft. Do yourself a favor and attend. – Reese Richardson
For more info and free sounds, check out http://www.kenvandermark.com and http://outsidethespotlight.blogspot.com.
:: Monday, February 6 ::
SON VOLT w/SHANNON McNALLY @ The Dame
8pm, ages 21+, $15
A few words here and there – an occasional sentence. Silence. That’s usually the rhythm of a conversation with Son Volt’s mastermind Jay Farrar. Once I interviewed him and he asked me if there were crickets in the background “I hear crickets. Are you outside?.” Long pause. “Crickets really have their own sense of timing.” Longer pause.
He may be a man of few words at times, but he is still a man of words.
He needs them. He breathes them in, sizes them up, contemplates ‘em and lets them flow back out in his craft of songwriting – usually in a splendidly effective manner.
Whether it was back in the Uncle Tupelo days or throughout his Son Volt tenure, Farrar’s ability to turn a phrase has always been his strongest suit.
It’s been a common complaint though, that while the words have never failed him, musically he was treading water – or at least when compared to his former bandmate, Jeff Tweedy, who was dazzling the critics and public alike with Wilco’s ever-escalating complexity since the simplified debut of A.M.
Farrar expanded and tinkered with his sound as well, but the results never seemed to reach any grandiose peaks. So, he must have figured – “Screw it – let’s just plug in and go.” And it worked, because instead of searching for a sound, he just relied on straight up rock ‘n roll for *Okemah and the Melody of Riot. He still has plenty to say, and for now those words that he dearly loves are back out front where they belong. (*Recommended listening while muting the State of The Union Address). - bcm
:: Tuesday, February 7 ::
ANDREW BIRD featuring DOSH w/HALEY BONAR @ The Dame
9pm, ages 21+, $
It sounds kooky too say, but this lanky multi-instrumentalist whistled his way through one of the best concerts that I saw last year. On album, Andrew Bird's music is a heavily layered mix of guitar, violin, and warm vocals. In concert, he manages to recreate all that magic and then some. While he performs solo with the help of his long-time drummer, Dosh, Bird uses various pedals and loop effects to milk his instruments for all they're worth. As those who have seen him will attest, his live show is like Sufjan Stevens and Stephin Merritt occupying the stage at the same time. – Matt Jordan
http://www.andrewbird.net
:: Friday, February 10 ::
“Know Your Own” vol.2 cd release party with THE ELEPHANTS, THEE AMERICAN REVOLUTION, IRENE MOON, RC PRO AM, and PETTICOAT, PETTICOAT @ Underlying Themes, 110 S. Upper (above Buster’s, entrance next to Mia’s)
8pm, all ages, $5
A party to celebrate the release of “Know Your Own” vol.2, the new FREE Lexington music compilation that will soon be making it’s way through the city. The idea for “Know Your Own” is a simple one – put together a disc as a reference guide, an in-to-the-out-sounds, a resource for putting a sound to the names you see on flyers. It’s a kind of ‘state of the scene’ address – a snapshot at music in Lexington now. (Obviously, it’s not everything – can’t fit it all on one disc – but it’s a pretty good start.) The party is a cross-section of the fun you’ll find on the disc and your first opportunity to grab a FREE copy. The show starts with an acoustic set from indie popsters (soon to be popstars? They’re working on their debut full-length for release on Kalmia Records in May) Petticoat, Petticoat, then it’s the raw rock mayhem of RC PRO AM, a solo electonic set by Irene Moon, the debut of Thee American Revolution (a new project from Robert Schneider of the Apples in Stereo), and, capping the evening, the dramatic weirdo-pop of The Elephants. Yup, the lineup’s mind-blowing but it only scratches the surface of what you’ll find on the disc. Come out and get hip to what’s really going on.
[Full Disclosure: I helped compile the cd and organize this show.] http://myspace.com/petticoatpetticoat, http://myspace.com/rcproam, http://www.begoniasociety.com, http://www.applesinstereo.com, http://myspace.com/theelephants
:: Saturday, February 11 ::
HAIR POLICE w/BLOODYMINDED, GRAVEYARDS, and LAMBSBREAD
@ Underlying Themes, 110 S. Upper (above Buster’s, entrance next to Mia’s)
9pm, all ages, $5
So is this like the most bias review ever?!?!?! I want to have sex with this music if at all possible, it's like better than Moz. If I can't get out of work to check this out, I am going to kill myself, I swear, like no more M^T or whatever!!!!
Beyond totally peeing myself here is a descrip: Hair Police are a group that play the most fluid yet unsettling "noise" I'VE ever heard. If you don't know, go ask Death Cab For Fattie because they toured together (BFFs). Bloodyminded are a evil black leather wearing power electronic onslaught that you don't want to run into in the street alone at night, scouts honor! Graveyards is John Olson from Wolf Eyes killing it in a fucked and broken jazz kind of way, and finally Lambsbread break strings and things on the weed need. I'm out of juice, this show is for those who like to yell random shit at bands, I think.
GO! - Michael Turner
:: Also worthwhile in the January 18 - February 01 timeframe ::
Every Friday RAKADU GYPSY DANCE @ Nema’s Grille (Frankfort, KY) – all ages
Fri/Feb 3 DJ FUNK w/FRANKIE VEGA @ The Dame
Sat/Feb 4 RAKADU GYPSY DANCE @ Natasha’s Café – 8pm, all ages
Sat/Feb 4 BIG MARACAS @ 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 SEXUAL DISASTER QUARTET @ The Dame
Sat/Feb 11 BOB POLLARD @ Southgate House (Newport, KY)
:: Soon Soon ::
Fri/Feb 17 MUDBOY w/YOMUL YUK and more @ venue tba
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
Sat/Feb 18 THE SMACKS! w/RICHARD JAMES & THE SPECIAL RIDERS @ High Life Lounge
Mon/Feb 20 Mardi Gras Parade Decorating Party sponsored by NOUGAT Magazine @ The Dame – FREE!
Tues/Feb 21 BR549 w/THE AVETT BROTHERS @ The Dame
Wed/Feb 22 THE NORTH MISSISSIPPI ALLSTARS @ The Dame
Thurs/Feb 23 DYNASTY w/HEART2HEART, ATTEMPT, and THREE LEGGED RACE @ Underlying Themes – all ages
Thurs/Feb 23 COLDPLAY w/FIONA APPLE @ Freedom Hall (Louisville)
Fri/Feb 24 WITCHDOCTOR w/CUNNINLYNGUISTS @ The Dame
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 The Dame’s Mardi Gras Party with BURNT SUGAR w/ISWHAT?!, FREE food from Gumbo Ya Ya and more @ 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 w/GROWING @ The Dame
Sun/Mar 5 PAGE FRANCE @ The Dame – ages 18+
Thurs/Mar 9 BELLE AND SEBASTIAN w/THE NEW PORNOGRAPHERS @ Brown Theatre (Louisville)
Sun/Mar 12 TONY CONRAD w/RHYS CHATHAM and JONATHAN KANE @ The Dame – ages 18+
Mon/Mar 13 THE MENDOZA LINE w/GREAT LAKE SWIMMERS and ELLIOT BROOD @ The Dame
Fri/Mar 24 ERIN McKEOWN TRIO w/MELISSA FERRICK @ Southgate House (Newport, KY)
Sun/Mar 26 MY WAY MY LOVE @ The Dame – ages 18+
Tues/Apr 4 HALF HANDED CLOUD w/LIZ JANES + CREATE! @ Underlying Themes, 110 S. Upper – all ages
Thurs/Apr 13 JOSEPHINE FOSTER AND THE SUPPOSED w/DAVE REMPIS PERCUSSION QUARTET @ Mecca – all ages
Wed/Apr 19 AB BAARS QUARTET @ Underlying Themes – all ages
:: 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
Here's the Project. Tons to do. Thanks to Dickie Haydon, Reese Richardson, Brian Connors Manke, Matt Jordan, and Mikey T for helping sort it out.
Hope all are well.
Ross
:::::::::::::::::::::::: Announcements :::::::::::::::::::::::::::
** “Know Your Own” volume 2
Coming soon! CD Central, WRFL, and the Lexington Action Arts Collective present "Know Your Own" vol.2 - a FREE compilation featuring 29 Lexington bands including the Elephants, the Parlour Boys, High Water Marks, Cunninlynguists, RC PRO AM, City Mouse, Petticoat, Petticoat, Warmer Milks, Marbles, the Scourge of the Sea, Eyes and Arms of Smoke, In Endeavors Italya, The Dialectics, Ideal Free Distribution, the Oxford Farm Report, and more! Put it on your calendar now - we'll celebrate the release of the disc next Friday, February 10th with an all ages party at Underlying Themes featuring performances by the Elephants, Thee American Revolution (a new band from Robert Schneider of the Apples in Stereo), Irene Moon, RC PRO AM, and Petticoat, Petticoat. (Checkout the Picks for full details about the release party.)
** Sat/Sun, February 4 & 5 - ‘Dance of Enticement’ & Ikebana workshops @ Mecca
Mecca will presents their annual pre-Valentine’s Day “Dance of Enticement Workshop” Saturday February 4th, from 2-4pm. Workshop-ers will learn a beautifully alluring dance based in the ancient arts of middle eastern and classical Indian dance art forms. All skill levels are invited. The workshop fee is $25 in advance or $30 at the door. If you’re interested in making a two-day weekend of it, the studio will offer an Ikebana workshop, Sunday, February 5th, from 11am-1pm. Ikebana, the ancient Japanese art of contemplative flower arranging, “combines the products of nature with human creativity to open a path of discovery that reconnects us with the ordinary magic of our world.” The workshop fee is $45 (which includes the cost of materials). Pre-registration for the Ikebana workshop has been moved back to this Friday, February 3rd. NOTE: There’s a package discount if you do both workshops. $65 gets you into both. Also, students taking one or both workshops will recieve a $20.00 coupon good toward a 90-minute Couple's Massage at 2121 Richmond Road, Suite 212, or a $10.00 coupon toward a 60 or 75-minute Couple's Massage session. Each Couples' Massage Session includes luxurious side-by-side massages in a beautiful suite, complete with aromatherapy, inscense, soft music and candle light, and of course, decadent chocolate. For more info or to register for one or both of the workshops, drop a line to info@meccadance.com or call 254-9790.
** Tues/Feb. 7 - Screening of "Democracy Ghosts" at the Central Branch of the Lex. Public Library
Kentuckians for the Commonwealth will host a screening of the documentary film “Democracy’s Ghosts,” Tuesday, February 7th at 7pm in the theater at the Central Branch of the Lexington Public Library, 140 E. Main St (corner of Main and Limestone). The short film (jushttp://www.blogger.com/img/gl.link.gift over a half-hour) spends time with people who are living their lives as legal ghosts and have lost the right to vote because of felony convictions. Kentucky is one of just three states that permanently prevents all former-felons from voting unless they get a pardon from the Governor. KFTC and others are lobbying to pass a Constitutional Amendment to allow for automatic restoration of voting rights upon completion of prison time, probation, and parole. Stick around after the film for a discussion about our campaign to restore voting rights to former felons who have served their debt to society in Kentucky. The screening is FREE and open to all ages. For more information about the film, visit www.democracysghosts.com. For more information about KFTC, visit . NOTE: "Democracy Ghosts" is available for additional showings. If you have a group or organization you would like to show it to, contact Janet Tucker at jlynjenks@qx.net.
** Upcoming Events @ Natasha’s Café
A few interesting events coming up at Natasha’s Café, 112 Esplanade (just off Main St, across from the Kentucky Theater). Reservations are encouraged – call 259-2754.
> Friday, Feb. 3 – Alma Gitana (Gypsy Soul) performs the music of some of Spain's most progressive Flamenco fusion groups (and an occasional Gypsy Kings song or two). Two sets beginning at 8 & 10pm. $5 cover.
> Saturday, Feb. 4 – Mecca’s acclaimed Rakadu Gypsy Dance present an evening of tribal fusion belly dance. Show begins at 8pm. $5 cover.
> Thursday, Feb. 9 - Beyond the Book w/ Neil Chethik – an evening with the author of “VOICEMALE: What Husbands Really Think About Their Marriages, Their Wives, Sex, Housework, and Commitment.” 7:30pm. $25 includes dinner.
> Friday & Saturday, Feb. 10 & 11 – “Surprise Theatre,” Balagula Theater’s organic theater experience that weaves in and out of the evening and may leave you wondering if that demonstrative jackass at the next table is part of the performance or just a jackass. Seating at 7:30pm. Donations accepted. NOTE: Surprise Theater will also pop up on Valentine’s Day with a series of “the most romantic one-act plays (they) could find.” Seatings from 7-9pm. $45 per person includes dinner.
** Valentine’s Dinner Special @ Alfalfa
Alfalfa, 141 E. Main (adjacent to the Downtown Arts Center, directly across the street from the public library), is opening up Valentine’s night with a special deal for couples. $50 gets you any two entrees, one bottle of wine, and one dessert to share. (NOTE: The $50 doesn’t include gratuity or the cost of the escort service.) It’s an ideal package for peeps looking for a romantic spot without the pretense and expense of white cloth romantic dining. It’ll be like Alfalfa always is, elegant but low-key. Adding to the ambience, you’ve got a string trio led by Alfalf-er Abbye Tackett. Here’s a peak at the specials (the entire regular menu will be available too): (1) Roasted Macadamia Stuffed Trout wrapped in banana leaves with red curry sauce, plantains, and sweet potato straws, (2) Buckwheat Crepes with mixed mushrooms, fried leeks, and roasted red pepper cream, (3) Cornmeal Crusted Chicken Breast with bourbon pecan butter and fried julienned sweet potatoes. Dinner is from 5:30-9pm. The restaurant is accepting reservations (phone 253-0014) but they aren’t required. For a look at the Alfalfa menu, visit http://www.alfalfarestaurant.com.
** Mardi Gras Jazz Parade
Yup, we’ve been publishing notices about organizational meetings and what not for the Mardi Gras parade for a while. Now, on to the good stuff. YOU need to get off your ass and get into this parade! This is a people’s parade – a walking/people powered (i.e. no motorized vehicles, but bicycles are OK) romp through the streets, a celebration of … well … celebrating. Grab a group of friends, come up with a theme, costume yourselves, and join the fun. So far we’ve got confirmation of a cardboard robot brigade, a group of Samba dancers and drummers, and a music-making bicycle gang! (Note: If you want to join any of those groups, drop me a line at informationactivists@yahoo.com and I’ll put you in touch with the right people.) There’s no registration fee at all. The parade date is Saturday, February 25th. Groups are asked to register by Saturday, February 18th (send an email to info@meccadance.com - it’s just so we can work out the lineup for the parade). Individual revelers are welcome to just show up on the 25th and fly their freak flags. For full details, go to http://lexingtonmardigrasparade.blogspot.com. C’mon … you know you want to …
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: THE PICKS :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
::::::::: Wednesday, February 01 through Wednesday, February 15 :::::::::::
:: Wednesday, February 1 ::http://www.blogger.com/img/gl.link.gif
QMR-PLUS w/TRYPTAMINE @ The Dame
9pm, ages 21+, $5
A rare jazz event at The Dame. QMR-plus = a young quartet (sax, bass, vibes, drums) formed in New Orleans and transplanted to Chicago following Katrina. Sound-wise, the quartet’s home was always closer to the new Chicago sound as exemplified by Ken Vandermark et al. Expect a lively night of melodic free jazz. For more info and FREE sounds, check out and http://myspace.com/qmrplus. Tryptamine = electro-acoustic experimentation from (the newly sheered) Chook Moreland (aka psychoactivesound, the dude behind Underlying Themes), Dewitt Snyder (aka birthday girl), and Tyler Little (of Sexual Disaster Quartet). More info – http://myspace.com/tryptamine.
:: Thursday, February 2 ::
FEIST w/JASON COLLETT @ Headliners (Louisville)
9pm, ages 18+, $12
As Americans we are constantly reminded of the stereotypical exports of Canada...hockey, beer, syndicated TV series, the word, 'eh.' However, a creatively exciting music scene is often overlooked. That's right, I'm talking about Alanis Morisette, Avril Lavigne, Nickelback, Sum 41...alright, just kidding. If you're even slightly familiar with current, independent music then you're well aware of what our neighbors to the north have been up to for the past couple of years. Arts & Crafts Records has brought us such artists as Broken Social Scene and Stars; this past year everyone was talking about Wolf Parade, and you'd have to have been living under a rock to not know what The Arcade Fire is.
However, the music scenes in Montréal and, most notably, Toronto are still giving birth to incredible sounds...and one of the must stunning is that of Leslie Feist. Performing under just her last name, Feist moved to Toronto at the age of 20 to begin her musical career. She is most recognized for being a founding member of the aforementioned Broken Social Scene, but her solo work has recently been getting an equal amount of attention, and rightfully so. Feist released her 2nd album, Let It Die, in the fall of 2004 on Arts & Crafts Records. Recorded in Paris, these 11 songs journey through a plethora of genres, including folk, pop, rock, disco, and doo-wop. Be that as it may, the most noticeable attribute of the album is Feist's voice. With an incredibly unique timbre that suggests, "The Girl From Ipanema," she calls back to time periods of multiple decades past.
I had the pleasure of seeing Feist this past November, open for none other than Mr. Oberst, himself. It is without question that she completely stole the show with one of the most incredibly entertaining live performances I have ever attended. The barely-there arrangements, high energy presentation, and on-stage banter made seeing her a more than enjoyable experience.
For more information as well as free mp3's of Feist, you can go to http://www.listentofeist.com or http://www.myspace.com/feist.
– Dickie Haydon
:: Friday, February 3 ::
Screening of “Untitled (Silver)” by Takeshi Murata and performances by ELLEN MOLLE, SARA O’KEEFE, and WARMER MILKS @ Charles Mansion – email charlesmansion@hotmail.com for directions
9:30pm (sharp!), all ages, FREE (donations accepted for performers)
A screening of artist Takeshi Murata’s digital video installation “Untitled (Silver)“ which features a soundtrack by Robert Beatty and Ellen Molle (half of the group Eyes and Arms of Smoke) and a series of short (less than 15 minute) solo performances by Molle (a short performance art piece), Sara O’Keefe (another Eyes and Arms member playing a soundtrack to animation by O’Keefe and Irene Moon), and Warmer Milks (a solo set by Mikey T). For more info about the video, visit http://www.ratio3.org/murata_2.htm. Note: Word has come via the Charles Mansion mailing list that, he lineup will run as follows – Warmer Milks first, then the screening of “Untitled (Silver),” then the performances by Molle and O’Keefe. Don’t be late! The whole show will likely be over before 11:30.
:: Sunday, February 5 ::
THE VANDERMARK 5 @ Underlying Themes, 110 S. Upper (above Buster’s, entrance next to Mia’s)
two sets starting at 7pm, all ages welcome, $5
As an avid music listener and performing musician, it is very apparent to me that the boundaries of musical genre are adamantly adhered to. Those who choose to step beyond these limitations are considered illegitimate and are promptly excommunicated from the realm of "understandable" creativity. These boundaries have been restricting musicians since Mozart. The greatest movements in art were first thought of as a secession from the trends of the period in order attempt to be different or radical. Time being the greatest test of a work of art shows us that most of these secessions were not mere attempts to pursue attention but imperative works that spoke the voice of their generation.
The first time I heard the Vandermark 5 was in the summer of 2004. This experience is etched in my memory as one of the most innovative performances our humble town has ever seen. This was my introduction to the likes of modern 'free jazz' players. I will admit, I was very skeptical at first. However, upon seeing that their focus was not to rehash the past but to move forward in musical genre, I was left feeling inspired and in awe of their honesty. They have been passed the torch once carried by the likes of Dolphy, Ornette, and Mingus. Ken Vandermark is leading our generation's musical secession. Come be apart of something greater than yourself. On Sunday February 5th at 7 o'clock, f*!? the Super Bowl; the Vandermark 5 will be performing at the Underlying Themes Loft. Do yourself a favor and attend. – Reese Richardson
For more info and free sounds, check out http://www.kenvandermark.com and http://outsidethespotlight.blogspot.com.
:: Monday, February 6 ::
SON VOLT w/SHANNON McNALLY @ The Dame
8pm, ages 21+, $15
A few words here and there – an occasional sentence. Silence. That’s usually the rhythm of a conversation with Son Volt’s mastermind Jay Farrar. Once I interviewed him and he asked me if there were crickets in the background “I hear crickets. Are you outside?.” Long pause. “Crickets really have their own sense of timing.” Longer pause.
He may be a man of few words at times, but he is still a man of words.
He needs them. He breathes them in, sizes them up, contemplates ‘em and lets them flow back out in his craft of songwriting – usually in a splendidly effective manner.
Whether it was back in the Uncle Tupelo days or throughout his Son Volt tenure, Farrar’s ability to turn a phrase has always been his strongest suit.
It’s been a common complaint though, that while the words have never failed him, musically he was treading water – or at least when compared to his former bandmate, Jeff Tweedy, who was dazzling the critics and public alike with Wilco’s ever-escalating complexity since the simplified debut of A.M.
Farrar expanded and tinkered with his sound as well, but the results never seemed to reach any grandiose peaks. So, he must have figured – “Screw it – let’s just plug in and go.” And it worked, because instead of searching for a sound, he just relied on straight up rock ‘n roll for *Okemah and the Melody of Riot. He still has plenty to say, and for now those words that he dearly loves are back out front where they belong. (*Recommended listening while muting the State of The Union Address). - bcm
:: Tuesday, February 7 ::
ANDREW BIRD featuring DOSH w/HALEY BONAR @ The Dame
9pm, ages 21+, $
It sounds kooky too say, but this lanky multi-instrumentalist whistled his way through one of the best concerts that I saw last year. On album, Andrew Bird's music is a heavily layered mix of guitar, violin, and warm vocals. In concert, he manages to recreate all that magic and then some. While he performs solo with the help of his long-time drummer, Dosh, Bird uses various pedals and loop effects to milk his instruments for all they're worth. As those who have seen him will attest, his live show is like Sufjan Stevens and Stephin Merritt occupying the stage at the same time. – Matt Jordan
http://www.andrewbird.net
:: Friday, February 10 ::
“Know Your Own” vol.2 cd release party with THE ELEPHANTS, THEE AMERICAN REVOLUTION, IRENE MOON, RC PRO AM, and PETTICOAT, PETTICOAT @ Underlying Themes, 110 S. Upper (above Buster’s, entrance next to Mia’s)
8pm, all ages, $5
A party to celebrate the release of “Know Your Own” vol.2, the new FREE Lexington music compilation that will soon be making it’s way through the city. The idea for “Know Your Own” is a simple one – put together a disc as a reference guide, an in-to-the-out-sounds, a resource for putting a sound to the names you see on flyers. It’s a kind of ‘state of the scene’ address – a snapshot at music in Lexington now. (Obviously, it’s not everything – can’t fit it all on one disc – but it’s a pretty good start.) The party is a cross-section of the fun you’ll find on the disc and your first opportunity to grab a FREE copy. The show starts with an acoustic set from indie popsters (soon to be popstars? They’re working on their debut full-length for release on Kalmia Records in May) Petticoat, Petticoat, then it’s the raw rock mayhem of RC PRO AM, a solo electonic set by Irene Moon, the debut of Thee American Revolution (a new project from Robert Schneider of the Apples in Stereo), and, capping the evening, the dramatic weirdo-pop of The Elephants. Yup, the lineup’s mind-blowing but it only scratches the surface of what you’ll find on the disc. Come out and get hip to what’s really going on.
[Full Disclosure: I helped compile the cd and organize this show.] http://myspace.com/petticoatpetticoat, http://myspace.com/rcproam, http://www.begoniasociety.com, http://www.applesinstereo.com, http://myspace.com/theelephants
:: Saturday, February 11 ::
HAIR POLICE w/BLOODYMINDED, GRAVEYARDS, and LAMBSBREAD
@ Underlying Themes, 110 S. Upper (above Buster’s, entrance next to Mia’s)
9pm, all ages, $5
So is this like the most bias review ever?!?!?! I want to have sex with this music if at all possible, it's like better than Moz. If I can't get out of work to check this out, I am going to kill myself, I swear, like no more M^T or whatever!!!!
Beyond totally peeing myself here is a descrip: Hair Police are a group that play the most fluid yet unsettling "noise" I'VE ever heard. If you don't know, go ask Death Cab For Fattie because they toured together (BFFs). Bloodyminded are a evil black leather wearing power electronic onslaught that you don't want to run into in the street alone at night, scouts honor! Graveyards is John Olson from Wolf Eyes killing it in a fucked and broken jazz kind of way, and finally Lambsbread break strings and things on the weed need. I'm out of juice, this show is for those who like to yell random shit at bands, I think.
GO! - Michael Turner
:: Also worthwhile in the January 18 - February 01 timeframe ::
Every Friday RAKADU GYPSY DANCE @ Nema’s Grille (Frankfort, KY) – all ages
Fri/Feb 3 DJ FUNK w/FRANKIE VEGA @ The Dame
Sat/Feb 4 RAKADU GYPSY DANCE @ Natasha’s Café – 8pm, all ages
Sat/Feb 4 BIG MARACAS @ 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 SEXUAL DISASTER QUARTET @ The Dame
Sat/Feb 11 BOB POLLARD @ Southgate House (Newport, KY)
:: Soon Soon ::
Fri/Feb 17 MUDBOY w/YOMUL YUK and more @ venue tba
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
Sat/Feb 18 THE SMACKS! w/RICHARD JAMES & THE SPECIAL RIDERS @ High Life Lounge
Mon/Feb 20 Mardi Gras Parade Decorating Party sponsored by NOUGAT Magazine @ The Dame – FREE!
Tues/Feb 21 BR549 w/THE AVETT BROTHERS @ The Dame
Wed/Feb 22 THE NORTH MISSISSIPPI ALLSTARS @ The Dame
Thurs/Feb 23 DYNASTY w/HEART2HEART, ATTEMPT, and THREE LEGGED RACE @ Underlying Themes – all ages
Thurs/Feb 23 COLDPLAY w/FIONA APPLE @ Freedom Hall (Louisville)
Fri/Feb 24 WITCHDOCTOR w/CUNNINLYNGUISTS @ The Dame
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 The Dame’s Mardi Gras Party with BURNT SUGAR w/ISWHAT?!, FREE food from Gumbo Ya Ya and more @ 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 w/GROWING @ The Dame
Sun/Mar 5 PAGE FRANCE @ The Dame – ages 18+
Thurs/Mar 9 BELLE AND SEBASTIAN w/THE NEW PORNOGRAPHERS @ Brown Theatre (Louisville)
Sun/Mar 12 TONY CONRAD w/RHYS CHATHAM and JONATHAN KANE @ The Dame – ages 18+
Mon/Mar 13 THE MENDOZA LINE w/GREAT LAKE SWIMMERS and ELLIOT BROOD @ The Dame
Fri/Mar 24 ERIN McKEOWN TRIO w/MELISSA FERRICK @ Southgate House (Newport, KY)
Sun/Mar 26 MY WAY MY LOVE @ The Dame – ages 18+
Tues/Apr 4 HALF HANDED CLOUD w/LIZ JANES + CREATE! @ Underlying Themes, 110 S. Upper – all ages
Thurs/Apr 13 JOSEPHINE FOSTER AND THE SUPPOSED w/DAVE REMPIS PERCUSSION QUARTET @ Mecca – all ages
Wed/Apr 19 AB BAARS QUARTET @ Underlying Themes – all ages
:: 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
