Cheap Thrills - Boston

Friday Calendar

2012-01-27T10:11:00.000-05:00

One of my goals is to suck less than last weekend.

So here is tonight's cheap stuff -- a rather good array of options...

THUR 1/26: Talk, Music, Dance

2012-01-26T11:57:00.002-05:00

You can tell which descriptions I wrote first, because they are usually more descriptive...

I was trying to be brief so I could save time for the weekend, and the music gigs got the short shrift. Depending on what you're in the mood for, I'd personally be happy at any of the 3 rock gigs.

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THUR 1/26

6pm to 8pm
Darra Goldstein, "Artful Dining: The Orchestration of the Meal"
at Fuller Bldg, Room 117, 808 Comm Ave, Boston (BU campus)
FREE w/ RSVP

I get the feeling this presentation is full. If you want to hear about the fancy eating habits from the Renaissance to the Gilded Age as well as the differences between the French and Russian styles of fine dining.

"Reservations are required by calling 617-353-9852"

Part of the Pepin Lecture Series in Food Studies, Gastronomy, and the Culinary Arts.

THUR 1/26

6:30pm to 8:30pm
Hanneke Cassel Band
at 2101 Comm Ave Bldg, Brighton (BC campus)
FREE

Champion fiddler gives a free performance as part of the "Gaelic Roots Music, Song, Dance, Workshop, and Lecture Series". (For kicks, I tried to figure out what that would look like in Gaelic: "Gaeilge Fréamhacha Ceol, Amhrán, Rince, Ceardlann, agus Sraith Léachtaí")

She'll be joined for by cellist Ariel Friedman and guitarist Christopher Lewis in what could be predominantly instrumental tunes.

I didn't know what BC did with the old Boston Cardinal's residence, but you could see by going tonight.

THUR 1/26

7pm
Frances Moore Lappé, "EcoMind: Changing the Way We Think, to Create the World We Want"
at Brookline Booksmith, 279 Harvard St, Brookline (Coolidge Corner)
FREE

Have you ever tried to have an in-depth conversation in the wee hours of the night about the environment? These discussions often stumble upon a similar set of what seem like insurmountable obstacles.

The co-founder of the Small Planet Institute intends to overcome some of the common mental blocks that may prevent us from taking action.

THUR 1/26

7pm
Dance Spotlight: An Evening with Boston Ballet
at Tsai Performance Center, Boston University, 685 Comm Ave, Boston
FREE

In March, the Boston Ballet is presenting a program of 3 contemporary works they've titled "Play With Fire". You have a chance to preview excerpts from "Sharp Side of Dark", "Bella Figura", and "Rooster".

THUR 1/26

7pm
Clea Simon & Brett Milano, "Tales From the House Band"
at Porter Square Books, 25 White St, Cambridge (near Shaw's Market)
FREE

A collection of 16 musical short stories include contributions from local authors Clea Simon and Brett Milano (who is one of my favorite music writers, period).

THUR 1/26

Zip-Tie Handcuffs (Midnight), Ready, Steady… Torpedo! (11pm), The Tenafly Vipers (10pm), Taiwan Typhoon (9pm)
at PA's Lounge, 345 Somerville Ave, Somerville (Union Sq)
$8 / 21+

If you're in the mood for a punk/metal mix.

THUR 1/26

The Blackboard Nails (11:30pm), BrownBoot (10:30pm), The Future Everybody (9:45pm), Animal Talk (9pm)
at TT the Bear's Place, 10 Brookline St, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$7

If you're in the mood for an indie-pop/rock mix.

THUR 1/26

9:30pm
Camden, The Daily Pravda, Cooling Towers, Paper Snakes
at Great Scott, 1222 Comm Ave, Allston
$8 / 18+

If you're in the mood for indie-rock with some glam 'n electro here and there.

WED 1/25: Theatre, Jazz, Country, Rock

2012-01-25T11:49:00.001-05:00

Happy Robbie Burns Night!

Not much in cheapness around Boston for the Scottish poet, and the area's Scottish restaurant has no room tonight.

Perhap a dram of whisky and a toast may suffice. Maybe in front of the Burns statue in the Financial District...?

Who knew there could be 2 Pay-What-You-Can nights on the same night? There are, and both are listed below.

BTW: None of the shows during the Magners Comedy Festival (WED 1/25 to SUN 1/29) are priced below $20, but I will mention the Orfeo Group's 2 performances of "The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged)" at Nick's Comedy Stop (Theatre District) tonight.

These guys have done it for free many times around Boston, so I thought I'd give a little shout-out. If tickets are still available, the 11pm show is going to be a new "R-rated" version.

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WED 1/25

7:30pm
"Fen": Pay-What-You-Can Night
at The Factory Theatre, 791 Tremont St, Boston (South End)
$5 minimum

Whenever I go to a play, there's a warm feeling of pride that I've tried to support the theatre as a viable part of our culture. Then a smug superiority rises because most people I know don't go to the live productions.

This is the 2nd of 3 plays by Obie-winning Caryl Churchill that are being performed by the Whistler in the Dark group over the next week or so.

I'll quote a London review of "Fen" from last year, because I can't give a better blurb:

This is a mysterious, tantalising play that, with its elliptical scenes and multiple characters, refuses to spoon-feed its audience. It offers a clear-eyed, feminist-socialist perspective on women and labour, but there is something darker and wilder lurking in its witchy psychic landscape.

As I've said before, there's nothing wrong with paying $20 ($10 students) on other nights. On the other hand, PWYC nights encourage you to attend.

"Tickets are available at the box office starting at 6:45pm."

WED 1/25

7:30pm to 9:30pm
Winter Panto 2012: "Humpty Dumpty"
at Black Box Theatre, Boston Center for Arts, 539 Tremont Street, Boston (South End)
$5 minimum

For many years, 'pantomime' conjured images of playing charades. Somewhere along the line, I read about the English tradition of presenting a musical/comedy show around Christmastime. They're usually silly (sometimes bawdy) versions of commonly-recognized tale.

Just like the play above you could pay full price on other nights, but I talk about cheap fun like pay-what-you-can nights (payable at the door day of show only).

This production says it is suitable for all ages, and there's no doubt that you've never seen Humpty Dumpty like this before.

WED 1/25

8pm to 2am
"A Tribute to Nina Simone" with Toni Lynn Washington & Sharon Sugar Jones
at The Beehive, 541 Tremont St, Boston (South End)
FREE

Whenever I see a tribute to Nina Simone, it's usually going to be a worthwhile gig. No one will ever sound exactly like Nina's deep fountain of soulfulness, but two of the bluesiest mamas in the Commonwealth will surely do justice to the songs associated with Ms. Simone.

Other singers that will be celebrated incude Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughn and Dinah Washington. They were expecting Etta James succumbing last week, but I suspect you might hear one or two of her classics.

WED 1/25

8:30pm
Roy Sludge
at Radio, 379 Somerville Ave, Somerville (Union Sq)
FREE

Last year, Sludge released a kick-ass country CD with a good dose of wit called "Too Drunk To Truck", and the songs go from there.

I also like how his site labeled this gig "Free Sludge". Buy yourself another beer since you didn't pay to get in and enjoy the tunes tonight.

WED 1/25

9:30pm
The Honors, Savoir Adore
at Great Scott, 1222 Comm Ave, Allston
$9 / 18+

Sure, there are chances to see The Honors play on weekends at places like Hennessey's and the Green Dragon, but I've noticed those places are often packed with people not paying attention to the music (to put it politely). It might be a better overall experience to hear their uber-catchy indie-rock at a club where they've done Halloween gigs as The Smiths and Morrissey.

When a band titles their album "The Adventures of Mr. Pumpernickel and the Girl With the Animals in Her Throat", they're pushing the envelope of acceptable length and silliness. Savoir Adore manages to keep in check, and they've have a fun indie-dancey pop thing going on.

Should be a good time!

TUES 1/24: Music, Film, Theatre, Trivia

2012-01-24T12:22:00.001-05:00

FYI: Wednesday's cheapness is on the calendar.

If you didn't go to yesterday's MBTA meetings at their downtown offices, there are many more sessions around the area through March. Thanks to Sean for leaving a detailed & reasonable comment on my post with the schedule.

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TUES 1/24

6:30pm to 8:30pm
Quatuor Zaïde
at French Cultural Center, 53 Marlborough St, Boston (Back Bay)
FREE

Program:

Mozart, "String Quartet No. 23" ("Prussian No. 3")
Debussy, "String Quartet in G Major"

A musical exchange program has sent a string quartet to Paris, and 4 French women have been sent to Boston for a week. Quatuor Zaide is a young quartet, but they've already been garnering accolades.

Theis another public performance at the New England Conservatory on THUR 1/26.

TUES 1/24

7pm to 8:30pm
"Shouting in the Dark": Screening
at Whitaker Bldg, about 21 Ames St, Cambridge (MIT campus)
FREE

If you think Al-Jazeera is clearly an enemy of democracy, you might want to check out some of their undercover journalism during last year's (unsuccessful) protests in Bahrain.

The whole 51-minute documentary is viewable on YouTube, but it's screening tonight if you'd rather not watch on a laptop. There's a chance to discuss it with people "face to face", as we used to say.

You might even get some free pizza just for caring about freedom in the Middle East.

TUES 1/24

7:30pm
"A Number": Pay-What-You-Can Night
at The Factory Theatre, 791 Tremont St, Boston (South End)
$5 minimum

Whenever I go to a play, there's a warm feeling of pride that I've tried to support the theatre as a viable part of our culture. Then a smug superiority rises because most people I know don't go to the live productions.

For another week or so, the Whistler in the Dark group are performing a trio by playwright Caryl Churchill who has won several Obies and other awards.

As this past review states, "A Number" requires you to think and suspend your disbelief slightly. The crux of the 'action' revolves around a man interacting with his son -- and his son's clones.

As I've said before, there's nothing wrong with paying $20 ($10 students) on other nights. On the other hand, PWYC nights encourage you to attend.

"Tickets are available at the box office starting at 6:45pm."

TUES 1/24

8pm to 11pm
Boston Bruins Stump Trivia
at King's, 50 Dalton St, Boston (Back Bay)
FREE / 21+

I don't mind Stump Trivia; they provide diversion in many bars around the nation. I just can't get excited about them either, because I wonder if we really need a massive organization to provid trivia for so many pubs.

Tonight's winning team will win a pair of Bruins tickets. If you have 3 to 6 players, then some are out of luck -- or you could sell the tix and split the money. Other prizes should be available for 2nd and 3rd place. (Maybe more?)

TUES 1/24

Mercies (11pm), Emily Peal (10:15pm), Stephen Konrads (9:30pm), Dan Blakeslee (8:45pm)
at TT the Bear's Place, 10 Brookline St, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$8

It's kinda funny that Mercies is a side project from a band (The Dear Hunter) that began as a side project from another band (The Receiving End of Sirens). Fans of TDH (and TREOS) should enjoy Mercies. As these things sometimes go, it seems each band is less 'heavy' than the previous one.

I recognize Stephen Konrads' name from a local band, but I assume he might be doing a solo gig. There's a good chance that Emily Peal will present her lovely, dreamy tunes by herself, and Dan Blakeslee often gets folky alone.

MON 1/23: Art; Film, Talk, Humor, Music

2012-01-23T12:29:00.003-05:00

It could be a good year since it's the Year of the Dragon, and dragons are cool.

Since I used to work with a couple Cantonese speakers I learned it as, "Gong hay fat choy!"

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MON 1/23

6pm to 8pm
"Histories of Now: Six Artists from Cairo": Opening Reception
at Grossman Gallery, School of the Museum of Fine Arts, 230 The Fenway, Boston (The Fens)
FREE

Feat: Mohamed Abla, Ahmed Basiony, Hala Elkoussy, Shady El Noshokaty, Sabah Naim, Moataz Nasr

It was about a year ago that protestors in Tahrir Square sparked the 30-year reign of Egyptian "President" Hosni Mubarak. These are the times when skeptics tell the idealists that they'll never change anything -- and when the idealists try anyway.

The SMFA offers a multi-media sample of artists who have been doing their part more than creatively. Ahmed Basiony died in Tahrir Square last year. I doubt all of the other artists will be in attendance, but I noticed Shady El Noshokaty is giving a lecture on WED 1/25 at the Museum of Fine Arts around the corner.

On view through SUN 3/17.

MON 1/23

6pm
"Carmen Jones"
at Rabb Lecture Hall, Boston Public Library, 700 Boylston St, Boston (Copley Sq)
FREE

The BPL's current Monday-night film series "Black and Beautiful Celebrating African American Actresses" runs through the end of February that would seem to purposely coincide with Black History Month.

Otto Preminger directs Dorothy Dandridge as the femme fatale that was simply known as "Carmen" in Bizet's opera that serves as the source material. The wayward soldier is played a young Harry Belafonte.

MON 1/23

6pm to 9pm
Bread & Puppet Theater, "Upriser Calisthenics": Opening Reception
at Cyclorama, Boston Center for the Arts, 539 Tremont St, Boston (South End)
FREE

In conjunction with their week of annual performances at the BCA over the last few years, the Bread and Puppet Theater also displays an art exhibit mainly by company founder Peter Schumann.

At last year's reception, I was quite charmed by his mad genius. With an unkempt look and German accent that hasn't lessened after decades in the hinterlands of Vermont, he performed a piece that included violin and passages of gibberish -- and made perfect sense.

Some of Bread & Puppet as well as locals Second Line Social Aid & Pleasure Society Brass Band will attempt to get the crowd into a dance/party mood.

Yes, there was some free food and quite a bit of art for less than $10.

MON 1/23

7pm to 9pm
Boston Skeptics in the Pub: Mathemagician Ethan Brown
at Tommy Doyle's, 96 Winthrop St, Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
FREE

Every month, people get together for some drinks and skeptical conversation that usually includes a presentation from a guest speaker. The topics usually do seem casual and informal.

If you're not totally irritated by young people who are super-intelligent and talented, you might get a kick out of pre-teen 'mathemagician' Ethan Brown who incorporates some magic tricks into his mental math tricks.

The kid is performing at a science & skepticism conference in NYC in a couple months, so this is closer and cheaper.

MON 1/23

9pm
"The Classic Game Show Show"
at Middlesex Lounge, 315 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$5-ish?

Feat: Union Square Round Table, Anderson Comedy, Ken Reid, Liz Prince, Spencer Gralla

Two of the local comedy collectives are combining their powers a la '70s TV game shows.

The Union Square Round Table will revive their version of "Match Game" that would occasionally occurred at the old Milky Way.

Since Anderson Comedy doesn't actually want to be responsible for a $10k grand prize, they're calling their version "BYO $10,000 Pyramid".

If you really, really want to participate, you should go to the Facebook page and see if they're still interested in recruiting people. The audience will be contestants, and the USRT/Anderson folks & friends will pretend they're celebrities and try to help you win prizes -- while making everyone laugh.

This could be free, and I wouldn't expect the cover to be more than $5...

MON 1/23

Neptune (11pm), The In Out (10pm), Cotton Candy (9:30pm)
at Charlie's Kitchen, 10 Eliot St, Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
$5 / 21+

Aren't Monday nights good for something weird and noisy? Monday days are usually filled with the depressing distance of the nest weekend, but the liberated soul has fun whenever they can.

On their homemade instruments, Neptune rips out some their own peculiar, arty-funky, avant-rock groove. Once I let go and let them redefine my understanding of melody & rhythm, it was a far more enjoyable listening experience.

While I haven't warmed up to The In Out very much, I do concede they know how to play even if the genre-hopping, devil-may-care approach that draws comparisons (since others compare) to The Fall, Pavement, and others.

The opening Cotton Candy won't confront your ears so much with light and fun indie-pop, but pay attention to the lyrics and you might think to yourself, "Hmm, that's a bit weird." And then you'll be on your way to some freaky musical corners.

SUN 1/22: Sunday Night Off-Topic Video

2012-01-22T18:54:00.000-05:00

Kudos to the guy who compiled Gronkowski's touchdowns and sync'ed the 1812 cannons.

SUN 1/22: Talk, Music, Film

2012-01-22T13:09:00.001-05:00

I guess some people may not want to watch the game.

Hopefully, I'll constructively blog as the Pats beat the dirty birds.

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SUN 1/22

3pm to 4:30pm
"Where Does Democracy Come From?" Popular Uprising & Parliamentary Elections in Egypt
at First Parish Church, 3 Church St, Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
FREE

If someone knows how to explain the recent Egyptian elections to Americans, it's probably a Stanford Middle East history professor who has lived in the country off-and-on over the last 40 years.

That guy is Joel Beinin, and he'll discuss the results and their impact on the Arab Spring movement.

SUN 1/22

3pm
"Hot Songs for a Cold Winter's Day"
at Arts at the Armory Performance Hall, 191 Highland Ave, Somerville (Spring Hill)
$10

Feat: Dennis Brennan, Gabrielle Agachiko, Catharine David, Gail Leondar-Wright, Pamela Enders, Debbie Lane, Ruthie Ristich, Rich White, Marva Wooden, Julie Dougherty, Marilyn Dale

There's not much info about this gig in general, but I did notice many of the performers also appeared here for a "Torch Night" last year as part of the Somerville Jazz & Blues Fest.

One could expect most of the jazz/cabaret/folk singers backed the amazing Dennis Brennan on guitar and keyboardist Bill Duffy.

SUN 1/22

4pm to 7pm
"Who Took the Bomp? Le Tigre on Tour": Screening
at Washington Street Arts Center, 321 Washington St, Somerville (Union Sq)
Donations Appreciated

In a couple weeks (2/3 to 2/5), Lady Fest Boston will present bunch of bands over several night at the Cambridge YMCA.

My initial impression is that these preliminary events were fundraisers, but it looks like you might just be encouraged to participate in the art auction at Washington street to offset festival costs.

It's a grrrl-power afternoon with a documentary about Kathleen Hanna's current band Le Tigre.

Hey, there will be free popcorn...

SUN 1/22

9:30pm
"Hooked On Who": "The Impossible Astronaut" & "Day Of The Moon"
at Brattle Theatre, 40 Brattle St, Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
$7 suggested donation

As an old-school Doctor Who fan, I enjoyed when my "Hooked on Who" experience from a couple years ago when I caught a Tom Baker a 4-part story arc. The script was by Douglas Adams, so there were more laugh lines than usual; people were guffawing and yelling stuff.

It might be cool to watch the first 2 episodes of the most recent season tonight with its sweeping shots of Utah and the scariest bad guys in a long time.

SUN 1/22

He's My Brother She's My Sister (10:30pm), Henry Wolfe (9:30pm)
at TT the Bear's Place, 10 Brookline St, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$10

Led by a pair of siblings, HMBSMS nail a sunny-LA, good-time indie-folk. They're probably the best band with a tap-dancer that I've heard for a long while. I wouldn't be surprised if people felt like dancing themselves.

Opener Henry Wolfe should appeal to fans of Freedy Johnston. His recordings also have a nice variety in stylistic touches.

Saturday Night Calendar

2012-01-21T17:24:00.002-05:00

Along the way, I pledged I wouldn't apologize, but I've not been happy with the last week or so. There are a few cheap options tonight with more to come.

THUR 1/19: Top 4 Free Things To Do Tonight

2012-01-19T13:00:00.002-05:00

Happy Birthday, Edgar Allan Poe!

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THUR 1/19

6pm to 8pm
"100 Years (version #4 Boston, 2012)": Opening Reception
at Stone Gallery, 1st Fl, College of Fine Arts Bldg, 855 Comm Ave, Boston (BU campus)
FREE

Performances: Marilyn Arsem, Jeff Huckleberry, Mari Novotny-Jones, Daniel S. DeLuca, EL Putnam

After stops in Dusseldorf; New York City and Moscow, an exhibit that covers the last century (or so) of performance art will be on view through SUN 3/25.

More than 200 pieces (including photos/video/audio) are on display, and there will be multiple live performances over the next couple months.

Several artists associated with local Mobius Group will do some wild and wacky -- err, I mean, give thought-provoking and sublime displays of their work...

THUR 1/19

7pm to 8:30pm
"Celebration of the 203rd Birthday of Edgar Allan Poe"
at Boston Room, Boston Public Library, 700 Boylston St, Boston (Copley Sq)
FREE

The Edgar Allan Poe Foundation of Boston is sponsoring a birthday for America's original master of macabre who grew up a few blocks away near Boston Common.

Speakers will include Prof. Paul Lewis, Boston's preeminent Poe scholar who curated the BPL's exhibit a couple years ago.

Project manager Jean Mineo will present the 3 top proposals for the Edgar Allan Poe Square Public Art Project and ask for your feedback.

You may even win a prize during the Poe-themed trivia game, and there's a rumor that Mr. Poe (or a close facsimile) will show up.

THUR 1/19

7pm
Catharine Utzschneider, "MOVE! How Women Can Achieve Athletic Goals at Any Age"
at Brookline Booksmith, 279 Harvard St, Brookline (Coolidge Corner)
FREE

Attention female readers who are looking for some perspiration inspiration: BC professor and Liberty Athletic Club coach Catharine Utzschneider has filled a book with scientific information and personal stories about female athletes from various levels.

THUR 1/19

7:30pm
SkeeNation Boston: Season II Kickoff Tourney
at The Greatest Bar, 3rd Fl, 262 Friend St, Boston (near North Station)
FREE / 21+

There is little luck at the upper echelon of skeeball. That said... With a little luck, you and a partner could walk away from this shindig with a pair of Celtics tickets.

The costs to register for the 8-week season wasn't readily available, but you can compete tonight for free -- and there's no obligation to show up again.

Judging from last season's teams, it seems to be a healthy but casual sort of competitiveness...

WED 1/18: Music, Talk, Theatre, Poetry, Games

2012-01-18T11:29:00.002-05:00

Alright, now we're getting a decent variety of cheapness in 2012...

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WED 1/18

5pm
Anthony Green: Performance & Signing
at Newbury Comics, North Market Bldg, 4 Faneuil Hall Market Pl, Boston (Quincy Market)
FREE

If you're a Circa Survive fan, you may know he's doing an in-store performance before his gig at the Paradise.

If you're not, then why not check out a free performance if you work near Faneuil Hall.

WED 1/18 (thru WED 3/7)

5:30pm to 6:45pm
"BSO 101": Adult Education Series
at Symphony Hall, 310 Mass Ave, Boston (South End-ish)
FREE

The Boston Symphony Orchestra is presenting a second season of free lectures at Symphony Hall to discuss various topics and to listen to excerpts of pieces from upcoming concerts (Mozart, Beethoven, etc).

There are 3 sessions left, and those who show up will find the answer to "What Makes a Symphony?"

The BSO discusses "Two Choral Masterpieces" on 2/15 and "Beethoven Up Close" on 3/7.

WED 1/18

6pm to 7pm
Ray Jayawardhana, "Strange New Worlds: From Meteorites in Antarctica to the Search for Life Beyond Our Solar System"
at Harvard Museum of Natural History, 26 Oxford St, Cambridge (Harvard campus)
FREE

If you missed a previous lecture about the hunt for life in the universe, we live in Boston where there are plenty of scientists who will publicly share their knowledge.

(There should be free parking in the garage at 52 Oxford Street.)

WED 1/18

7pm
Theda Skocpol & Vanessa Williamson, "The Tea Party and the Remaking of Republican Conservatism": Discussion
at Harvard Book Store, 1256 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
FREE

7:30pm
Philosophy Cafe, "A Philosophical Look at Inequality"
at Harvard Book Store, Lower Level, 1256 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
FREE

It seems like there have been quite a few books on the Tea Party. Maybe next year will see a spate of Occupy manuscripts. Since you have a pair of Harvard professors collaborating on the project, the research and analysis of the movement should be sound and reliable.

In my mind, a philosophical discussion about inequality relates to the Tea Party who seem to say that life is unfair and we should let it be.

WED 1/18 (and WED 1/25)

7:30pm to 9:30pm
Winter Panto 2012: "Humpty Dumpty"
at Black Box Theatre, Boston Center for Arts, 539 Tremont Street, Boston (South End)
$5 minimum

For many years, 'pantomime' conjured images of playing charades. Somewhere along the line, I read about the English tradition of presenting a musical/comedy show around Christmastime. They're usually silly (sometimes bawdy) versions of commonly-recognized tale.

You could pay full price on other nights, but I talk about cheap fun like pay-what-you-can nights (payable at the door day of show only) tonight and next week.

This production says it is suitable for all ages, and there's no doubt that you've never seen Humpty Dumpty like this before.

WED 1/18

8pm
Poetry Slam: World Qualifier Semi-Final
at Cantab Underground, 738 Mass Ave, Cambridge (between Central Sq & Harvard Sq)
$5

I've been to the Cantab's poetry night, and it's quite a vibrant and crowded scene. I'd get there early if you really want to get in, because it can be a full house.

Besides the open-mic at 8pm, 18 poets will compete in a two-round slam around 10pm to narrow down who will represent the Cantab at the National Poetry Slam (not in Boston this year).

WED 1/18 (and WED 1/25)

8:30pm
Roy Sludge
at Radio, 379 Somerville Ave, Somerville (Union Sq)
FREE

Last year, Sludge released a kick-ass country CD with a good dose of wit called "Too Drunk To Truck", and the songs go from there. Buy yourself another beer since you didn't pay to get in and enjoy the tunes tonight and/or next Wednesday.

When people give directions to Radio, it's easy to say, "It's across the street from Market Basket." So maybe you can do some shopping beforehand...

WED 1/18

9:30pm
"Punch Out!" Competition
at Good Life, 28 Kingston St, Boston (Downtown Crossing)
FREE

Feat: DJs El Amado, Thaddeus Jeffries, Team Teamwork

When you're not dancing, there is going to be an informal Punch Out! tournament on 2 Wii's and 2 Atari 2600's with a grand prize of dinner for two at the restaurant upstairs.

They've done Tetris and Tennis tournaments before, so they must have worked out a decent plan to make this work.

1/17 to 3/6: MBTA Public Meetings

2012-01-17T16:29:00.011-05:00

If you haven't heard, the T is facing a large operating budget shortfall [Globe/Herald].

I went to a public meeting when the MBTA considered raising fares a couple years ago (and taxes were raised to avoid an increase). Someone explained the budgetary pickle much like this article.

Currently, there appears to be 2 potential proposals of fare increases & service reductions that can be reviewed in a "Discussion Guide" on the MBTA site.

There are PDF and Word versions in English, Cape Verdean, Chinese, Haitian Creole, Portuguese, Spanish, and Vietnamese. FYI, both of them screw the riders in any language...

The full schedule of related public meetings is listed below, and they begin tonight and are free to attend!

Someone recently asked me what can be done. It seems like there are a handful of options that come to mind:

1) Go to one of the public meetings to share your personal transit story and/or express general outrage.

2) Start/sign an online petition to protest the changes -- or to call for an independent audit of the MBTA books.

3) Follow a burgeoning "Occupy the MBTA" on Facebook or Twitter and see what ideas pop up.

4) Hold a fundraiser for the T.

It's my understanding that at least a few MBTA board members are supposed to be at each meeting, so your voice will be heard.

As I see it, the public needs to express their opinion on fares and services. The MBTA will feel empowered to do whatever they want if we don't participate at all.

TUES 1/17

5:30pm to 7:30pm
Newton City Hall, War Memorial Hall, 1000 Commonwealth Ave

6pm to 8pm
Worcester Public Library, Saxe Room, 3 Salem Square

WED 1/18

6pm to 8pm
Chelsea Public Library, Auditorium, 569 Broadway

THUR 1/19

6pm to 8pm
Roxbury Community College, Auditorium, 1234 Columbus Ave

MON 1/23

1pm to 3pm
4:30pm to 6:30pm
State Transportation Building, Floor 2, Conference Rooms 2 & 3, 10 Park Plaza, Boston

TUES 1/24

4:30pm to 8pm
Attleboro High School, 100 Rathbun Willard Drive

WED 1/25

6pm to 8pm
Salem City Hall Annex, 3rd Floor Conference Room, 120 Washington St

TUES 1/31

6pm to 8pm
Mildred Avenue Community Center, 5 Mildred Ave, Mattapan

WED 2/1

6pm to 8pm
Hennigan Community Center Cafeteria, 200 Heath St, Jamaica Plain

THUR 2/2

1pm to 3pm
6pm to 8pm
Dorchester House Multi-Service Center, Multi-Purpose Room, 1353 Dorchester Avenue

MON 2/6

5pm to 7pm
Lowell City Hall Council Chambers, 375 Merrimack Street

TUES 2/7

6pm to 8pm
Lynn City Council Chambers, 3 City Hall Square

WED 2/8

4:30pm to 6:30pm
Shriners Hospital Auditorium, 51 Blossom St, Boston (behind MGH)

6pm to 8pm
Hingham Town Hall, Central Meeting Room, 210 Central Street

MON 2/13

6pm to 8pm
Boston Public Library, Boston Room, 700 Boylston Street

TUES 2/14

6pm to 8pm
Framingham Town Hall, 150 Concord Street

WED 2/15

6pm to 8pm
Thomas Crane Public Library Community Room, 40 Washington St, Quincy

THUR 2/16

6pm to 8pm
Malden City Council Chambers, 200 Pleasant Street

TUES 2/28

6pm to 8pm
Somerville High School Auditorium, 81 Highland Avenue

WED 2/29

6pm to 8pm
Cambridge Citywide Senior Center, 806 Mass Ave

THUR 3/1

6pm to 8pm
Government Center Auditorium, 119 School Street, Waltham

TUES 3/6

6pm to 8pm
Massasoit Community College, Liberal Arts Building, Lecture Hall LA 560
1 Massasoit Boulevard, Brockton

TUES 1/17: Talk, Music

2012-01-17T11:59:00.002-05:00

There are quite a few Tuesday residencies of free music this month. It's probably a good way to get people out on a weeknight in January...

I think I posted the Young London gig, so I can remember them if they go big-time...

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TUES 1/17

6pm to 7:30pm
Lori Andrews, "I Know Who You Are and I Saw What You Did": Author Talk
at Boston Room, Boston Public Library, 700 Boylston St, Boston (Copley Sq)
FREE

It's inevitable to compromise your privacy if you do practically anything online.

Prof. Andrews will probably freak you out, but wouldn't you like to have a better understanding of what's happening when you're on Facebook -- or even send emails?

TUES 1/17

7:30pm
Eddie Scheer's Tuesday Night All-Stars
at Smoken' Joe's BBQ, 351 Washington St, Brighton (Brighton Center)
FREE

Guests Mr. Nick & Monster Mike Welch

While mainly a restauarant with a stage, there is a small bar area to have a drink and enjoy bluesy music almost every night of the week.

As for the Tuesday session, this week's guests include the fine harp skills of Mr. Nick and hotshot blues guitarist Mike Welch who is known across the country/globe.

TUES 1/17

Abbie Barrett & The Last Date (7:30pm), The Blue Ribbons (10pm)
at Toad, 1912 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Porter Sq)
FREE

On their latest release, Abbie Barrett & The Last Date shares a trio of uptempo indie-poppers that I enjoy a bit more than the folkier, sensitive stuff. I think The Blue Ribbons have been doing their weekly bluesy/rootsy weirdness for a while -- and that's a good thing.

TUES 1/17

8:30pm
Kristen Ford Band, Tilt-A-Whirl
at Sally O'Brien's, 335 Somerville Ave, Somerville (Union Sq)
FREE / 21+

It's a Kristen Ford double-header. There's a different band opening during this January residency, except she'll be in the drum chair for the loose rock of Tilt-A-Whirl before leading her positive-vibe, folky pop-rock.

TUES 1/17

Richard James & The Name Changers (10pm), The Hornitz (8:30pm)
at Church, 69 Kilmarnock St, Boston (Fenway)
FREE / 21+

Thanks to MySecretBoston, Church is a spot for free, funky, jam-bandish rock every Tuesday this month.

To give you an idea what to expect from RJ & The Name Changers, someone listed last week's songs on the residency Facebook page. Besides their originals, the band worked in several tunes by Phish and The Beatles.

Tonight's opener is also the horn section for The Name Changers who do some cool stuff with drum machines, etc.

TUES 1/17

8:30pm
Young London, Glowkids & Fuse, Mic Raygun, Michael Hensley
at Middle East - Upstairs, 472 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$9 / 18+

Hey, I've posted other electro-pop gigs. Young London may be too sleek 'n polished for my taste, but they probably have a better chance at national fame than most of the local bands I love. The Phoenix even called them one of the 12 best new bands for the upcoming year.

There are DJ's and other electro-popsters on the bill. I sorta dig the rougher sound of Mic Raygun who will supposedly give free flash drives to the first 10 people that say, "Dicks, pits and lady bits" to him after his set.

MON 1/16: MLK, Art, Talk, Music, Trivia

2012-01-16T10:23:00.003-05:00

Happy Dr. MLK Jr Day!

I hope most of you don't have to work today.

If not, you can pretend you're a fighter for social justice.

Hey, The White Owls and Andrea Gillis Band are at Toad (for free) tonight too.

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MON 1/16

10am to 4:45pm
MLK Jr Day -- Open House
at Museum of Fine Arts, 465 Huntington Ave, Boston (Fenway)
FREE

I have been to an Open House day in the expanded MFA, and there was a reasonable amount of room for me. Of course there are musical performances and art activities, or you could check out a couple exhibits then do something else with the rest of the day.

This is a good chance to see "Degas and the Nude" that is closing next month and going to Musée d’Orsay in Paris. It could be described as a hundred naked ladies, but it's also a study by one of the pioneering Impressionists.

MON 1/16

1pm
"A Day of Service & Celebration In Honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr."
at Faneuil Hall, 1 Faneuil Hall Market Pl, Boston
FREE

Feat: Boston Youth Symphony Orchestra, Dr. Alvin Poussaint, Steve Grossman, Lee Pelton, Tulaine Marshall, more

Above the souvenir booths, the City and the Museum of African American History present a program to honor the man whose dream has given some of us a day off.

Amid performances from the Boston Youth Symphony Orchestra, people like the state treasurer, Emerson College's President, and more will read passages by Dr. King.

Psychiatrist and educator Dr. Alvin Poussaint will deliver the keynote address.

MON 1/16

6pm to 9pm
Rock Shop #14: "The Need to Be Heard"
at Great Scott, 1222 Comm Ave, Allston
FREE

Feat: Audrey Ryan, Michael Creamer, Will Dailey, David Day

The Rock Shop series is geared towards the music realm, but maybe anyone in a creative endeavor might hear something beneficial.

Perhaps any kind of artist who does their thing very independently could benefit from "The Need to Be Heard", a book by Audrey Ryan that is the foundation of tonight's discussion with other musicians and music professionals.

Not only do you walk away with a bunch of tips, you also meet other local music people -- like the monthly Rock 'n' Roll Social at at the Model Cafe.

MON 1/16

7:30pm
"James Brown Get Down for MLK Day!"
at Arts at The Armory Cafe, 191 Highland Ave, Somerville (Spring Hill)
$3 Suggested Donation

If you don't recall why watching vintage concert footage of James Brown makes sense for a MLK Jr Day celebration, it was Soul Brother Number One who televised his concert at the Boston Garden on the night of King's assassination.

It's widely believed this prevented major rioting in Boston that plagued other cities across the country. There's a DVD about the concert, and I bet some of it will be shown tonight.

MON 1/16

8pm to 10pm
The Big Quiz Thing
at Club Oberon, 2 Arrow St, Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
FREE

Yes, Virginia, there is a free trivia night where there's a $200 1st-place prize.

It's very competitive, but it can be done. The Cheap Thrills Boston team tied for 2nd place in June. I think our team helped to make the night considered to be "The ideal live-trivia audience".

Your average pub trivia is alright, but this is probably the most entertaining trivia game I've played.

MON 1/16

9pm
The Sound of Growing Up, The Winter Sounds, Triggers
at Middle East - Upstairs, 472 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$10 / 18+

Attention powerpop lovers, there is gig that will warm your musical cockles as the temperature has become wintry. If you don't dig the keyboard-heavy, uptempo Sound Of Growing Up with bits of horns and ukulele, you might like The Winter Sounds from Nashville via Athens, GA. From what I heard The Winter Sounds sound more UK than Southern with precious melodies and sparkling guitars.

If not those two, Pittsburgh's Triggers should sink their big tasty hooks in your ears. (Too many cliches? Hope not.) Even if you don't go, take a listen and find some new mixtape tracks.

SUN 1/15: Comedy, Music

2012-01-15T13:06:00.001-05:00

Oh, jeez. I hope other people went out and did more than lay on the couch and watch the Pats. There were some good gigs last night.

Before it gets later, something for tonight.

Am planning to get back in the saddle.

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SUN 1/15

8:30pm
"Comedy With Wings"
at Milky Way Lounge / Bella Luna, 284 Amory St, Jamaica Plain (The Brewery Complex)
$8

Feat: Robin Maxfield, Marcy Goldberg Sacks, Shari Vanderwerf, more

As someone with a Y chromosome, the idea of more than a handful of female comedians in "an all female comedy lab" may seem a bit daunting. It can be stand-up or humorous spoken-word, and I have to believe there will be more than female-centric issues.

SUN 1/15

Madi Diaz (10:45pm), Lucy Schwartz (9:45pm), Micah (9pm)
at TT the Bear's Place, 10 Brookline St, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$10

When Madi Diaz was at Berklee a few years ago, she would play around town and being in the documentary that inspired Jack Black comedy "School of Rock" was one thing I noticed besides the great songs and vocals. She lives in Nashville now and still sounds great.

It turns out that Lucy Schwartz has had some cinematic success having written songs for several movies including one of the "Twilight" episodes. Micah lives here and does the singer-songwriter with aplomb.

SUN 1/15

9pm
David Champagne & Friends
at Toad, 1912 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Porter Sq)
FREE

With: Amy Correia, Treat Her Right, Kimon Kirk, Jess Baggia, more

Almost every night at Toad is a damn-good rootsy time. I get the feeling this is probably going to be a people-singing-with-people, having some laughs kind of gig.

SUN 1/15

9:30pm
Bon Savants, Marconi, Eldridge Rodriguez
at Great Scott, 1222 Comm Ave, Allston
$9 / 18+

It seems like the Bon Savants make appearances now and then, but their new stuff sounds fantastic. Marconi and Eldridge Rodriguez are not slouches either.

SUN 1/15

10pm
Trabants "Go Go Surf Party"
at ZuZu!, 474 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
FREE / 21+

Yeah, we got some surf bands in town. The Trabants have a new album that they'll play along with some of their face surf records. They'll also do a live set.

They don't say it, but I wouldn't be surprised if there was some actual go-go dancing.

Friday Calendar

2012-01-13T11:50:00.000-05:00

Ugh, not a good week at CTB HQ... There are good cheap options for tonight; more to come hopefully.

THUR 1/12: Art, Food, Music, Theatre, Science

2012-01-12T11:27:00.003-05:00

Yes, there is cool, cheap stuff happening this weekend. I hope to have it up tonight...

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THUR 1/12

6pm
"Lighthouse": Installation Reception
at Boston Harbor Islands Pavilion, about 190 Atlantic Ave, Boston (Kennedy Greenway)
FREE

It looks crappy now, but it could be less crappy this evening. The "Lighthouse" is a video installation that launched on "First Night" that supposedly has an interactive element.

There's should be a short presentation by the artists and a dance performance followed by an after party at the Marriott across the street.

Hey -- if you're downtown anyway, why not?

THUR 1/12

6:30pm to 8:30pm
Eléonor Picciotto, "French Cuisine for the Young & Broke": Presentation
at French Cultural Center, 53 Marlborough St, Boston (Back Bay)
$5

Is this a case where you have to "spend money to save money"?

I can't speak to the efficacy of this cookbook, but it has a great title and has decent potential to provide easy, tasty (cheap, mais oui?) recipes.

The book will be for sale. If you used it once per month instead of having something delivered, you'll be in better shape before the end of the year.

RSVP Required: 617-912-0400

This event is presented in English.

THUR 1/12

Kevin Hearn & Thinbuckle (8pm), Leo Blais (7:15pm)
at TT the Bear's Place, 10 Brookline St, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$10

Kevin Hearn took over for the keyboardist in Barenaked Ladies a little while before they got really annoying ("One Week"), but you have to add some cool credibility for playing with Lou Reed and Laurie Anderson. There's not much bite to his solo material, although melodic piano-pop doesn't have to bite you.

Even though I've noticed melancholy lyrics like some Leo Blais, the way he sings them can make little kids dance. I saw it with my own eyes...

THUR 1/12

8pm
"Copenhagen": Pay-what-you-can Night
at The Factory Theatre, 791 Tremont St, Boston (South End)
$5 minimum

I've been interested in seeing the play that imagines what two major scientists discussed when they met in Denmark at the beginning of WWII. What actually had been said that night may have prevented the Nazis from obtaining an atomic bomb -- or did it matter? No one knows.

It's worth paying full price, but you can attend for as little as $5. I think you have to purchase in advance to take advantage of the deal.

THUR 1/12

8pm
Dr. Steve Leman, "Searching for the Universe, from an Iron Mine": Lecture
at Phillips Auditorium, Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics, 60 Garden St, Cambridge (between Porter Sq and Fresh Pond)
FREE

For those of us who are curious what is out there beyond our little blue orb, it's been cool to see big strides in our understanding.

The problem is... I'm pretty sure that I don't understand dark matter and dark energy. I know Steve Leman understands way better than I do, and he intends to describe it for people with "no background knowledge in astro-particle physics".

And he'll discuss why looking in a Minnesota mine is a good idea.

THUR 1/12

9:30pm
Quilt, The New Highway Hymnal, Sand Reckoner, Creaturos
at Great Scott, 1222 Comm Ave, Allston
$10 / 18+

Do you like the flyer above? It's not too far off from what you're going to hear tonight since there is a bit of psychedelic rock woven into these bands in one way or another. Dig the folky Quilt, the retro-modern fuzz of New Highway Hymnal, the shoegazey Sand Reckoner, and the trippy experimentation of Creaturos. Should be a good night (with or without chemicals).

Wednesday Calendar

2012-01-11T10:07:00.000-05:00

In case I screw up the day's post (like yesterday), there is stuff on the calendar.

Even though it's not exactly $10 or less when you consider most entree prices at Legal Sea Foods, they are offering a discounted chowder today...

MON 1/9: Film & Music

2012-01-09T11:22:00.002-05:00

Okay, here are a couple options for tonight. There's also some cool bands at Zuzu...

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MON 1/9

6pm
"Cabin in the Sky": Screening
at Rabb Lecture Hall, Boston Public Library, 700 Boylston St, Boston (Copley Sq)
FREE

It's nice to see that the BPL is spending a little more than 29 days on Black History Month with their film series that screens tonight through the end of February (except next Monday ironically) called "Black and Beautiful Celebrating African American Actresses".

The opener is a musical that was radical in 1943 for being a Faust update with an African-American cast. Lena Horne sings and Duke Ellington makes an appearance with his band.

MON 1/9

The White Owls (8pm), Andrea Gillis Band (10pm)
at Toad, 1912 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Porter Sq)
FREE

I'll say it again: You're getting two great bar bands that go great together. Dennis Brennan captains a kick-ass team of players through blues classics and hidden gems. Andrea Gillis is the big, soulful voice in front of her punky band.

SUN 1/8: Sunday Night Off-Topic Video

2012-01-08T18:49:00.000-05:00

There's been press about the new season of "Portlandia", and I laughed several times per episode at vignettes like Aimee Mann as herself as a cleaning lady.

SUN 1/8: No Pants & Music

2012-01-08T11:24:00.001-05:00

Am still not seeing the as much consistent cheap fun in the new year. I've got a quiet day planned, so I'll try to update the CTB calendar and write next week's cheapness.

If you haven't been to the New Bedford Whaling Museum, the exhibits are rather impressive. It was especially enjoyable on yesterday's Moby Dick marathon (for free).

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SUN 1/8

2pm to 5pm
No Pants! Subway Ride
Meet at Dewey Sq, about 720 Atlantic Ave, Boston (South Station)
FREE

Even the first No-Pants ride five years wasn't as subversive as it planned to be when news media outlets were there and MBTA cops were in each train car. It's just another silly activity that happens every year to brighten a (usually) dreary winter day.

Go with a friend or make new friends. The process seems rather organized where you find a person with an umbrella who will assign you to a team that will give you further instructions.

These were basic instructions from a few years ago:

- Follow instructions about taking your pants off in between stations (and stash them in a backpack, etc).
- Act normally. Have a some fake answers ready to obvious questions.
- Take your pants off.
- Wear underwear.
- Not interact with the other pantless people.
- Keep your camera hidden/discreet, if you bring one.
- Listen to the police or other T employee, if they tell you to put your pants back on.
- Have some fun.

You can wear something fun but NOT "jokey".

You won't be riding around forever like Charlie, but you'll probably want to hang at the post-ride party at Kings from 4pm to whenever.

[Facebook]

SUN 1/8

8:30pm
The Gallerist, The Red Heroine, The Old Edison, The Nickel and Dime Band
at Middle East - Upstairs, 472 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$10 / 21+

Every now and then, I check my old posts to see what I wrote a band. Seems strange that I've never written about The Gallerist before (unless they changed their name). These guys are really damn good folk-rockers with with thoughtful songs through soulful vocals.

If you liked Mr Sister, then you might already know they changed their name to Red Heroine recently. Other than the name, it still sounds like the modern, old-time vibe with high, evocative that stretch and twist and swoop and swirl in fantastic ways.

The Old Edison don't really play Irish music so much as play raw punk-folk that channels the experiences of being a bunch of guys from Southie.

The Nickel & Dime Band don't play a lot of gigs where they're not backing Rick Berlin or providing live karaoke fun at the Milky Way. They're all great player who know how to have a good time -- and maybe some people can jump onstage and sing with them.

[Facebook]

SAT 1/7: Moby Dick & Music

2012-01-07T11:39:00.000-05:00

Believe it or not, I'm going to the Moby Dick reading for a little while.

Want to do a flash mob thing that everyone knows about? Sunday is the annual No Pants! T Ride starting at South Station this year.

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SAT 1/7

Noon to ???
15th Annual Moby Dick Marathon
at New Bedford Whaling Museum, 18 Johnny Cake Hill, New Bedford
FREE

More than a hundred readers will take turns to recite Melville's classic for about 25 hours. Food and drink will be available, but you don't have to stay for the whole whale tale. It's free, so come and go as you please.

More than 100 people get about 10 minutes each, and two podiums (podia?) are set up for continuous reading under whale skeletons and around other artifacts.

Sometimes the readers included a great-grandson of Herman Melville and the Mayor of New Bedford.

SAT 1/7

9:30pm
Naked on Rollerskates, Full Body Anchor, Tijuana Sweetheart, RealSynthetic
at Great Scott, 1222 Comm Ave, Allston
$10 / 18+

I didn't listen to RealSynthetic, these are three of the best bands in town (in my humble opinion).

SAT 1/7

9:30pm
Greg Klyma "Birthday Bash"
at Sally O'Brien's, 335 Somerville Ave, Somerville (Union Sq)
FREE

I wrote this about Greg Klyma once:

Greg Klyma seems like one of those lovable drifters. He's charming and you might even start thinking that he's a Boston guy or a [your town] guy, but he mainly roams. I doubt that he's dangerous except for his clever songs. I could be totally wrong about the charming-drifter thing, but the music is good.

I think he lives in Somerville actually. It his birthday, so many guests will join in the musical fun.

FRI 1/6: Art, Comedy, and...

2012-01-06T10:33:00.002-05:00

[Wow, this was an anti-climactic post to sit waiting... - rv]

Hey, folks. I didn't see any paying gigs that really moved me. Some free gigs that could be good include: Jess Tardy Band at Bull McCabe's... Luddy Mussy at Toad... Jason Palmer isn't playing this Friday, but there's always some free jazz at Wally's.

Before I get weekend cheapness up: tomorrow is the Annual Moby Dick Marathon at New Bedford Whaling Museum, and Sunday is the annual No Pants! T Ride starting at South Station this year.

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FRI 1/6

5pm to 9pm
First Friday Open Studios
at SoWa Arts Bldg, 450 Harrison Ave, Boston (South End)
FREE

When I've gone, there were decent crowds passing through. Several dozen studios with interesting works are always open in the rather large building, and there's bound to be refreshments in a few...

Go tonight or any first Friday of every month. You have the whole year ahead of you.

Maybe you'll see people doing the tango like I did (above).

FRI 1/6

7:30pm to 9:30pm
Anderson Comedy: "The Gas"
at Great Scott, 1222 Comm Ave, Allston
$5 / 18+

Feat: Will Smalley, Tim Vargulish, Langston Kerman, Nate Johnson, Sanjay Soloman, Ryan Shea, Ryan Douglass

On most Fridays, this is a chance to laugh your way into the weekend even if your friends aren't particularly funny.

I personally like seeing comedians in bars/clubs, and it is still my claim that cover to this weekly show and $15 worth of tall boys is a good start to a Friday night.

If you stick around for a couple more drinks, then it's dance party time with The Pill.

Tonight's guest host is Gary Petersen.

THUR 1/5: Theater, Talk, Music

2012-01-05T10:32:00.001-05:00

I took a quick look to see if there was any room for the last night of $12 classes at the BCAE, and all of them have witing lists except for Swing Dance (6pm), Ballroom Dancing (7:30pm), and Chess for Beginners (7:30pm).

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THUR 1/5

7:30pm
"Hookman": Staged Reading
at Calderwood Pavilion, Boston Center for the Arts, 539 Tremont St, Boston (South End)
FREE

What does a modern teenager do when their friend has been murdered by a horror-flick madman?

There's a lot of potential for "Hookman" to be a dry, wry examination of the dealing with emotions in a social-media world.

Before this play hits the stage in its full gory/glory in March, this is a chance to see one of the final drafts.

THUR 1/5

7pm
Cindy Milstein, "Occupy Anarchism": Talk
at Lucy Parsons Center, 358A Centre St, Jamaica Plain
FREE

When I saw yesterday's "Radical Movie Night" at the Parson's Center, I noticed they were having a talk about the lessons that anarchists can glean from the anarchical Occupy movement. Hmmm.

THUR 1/5

9pm
Lenny Lashley’s Gang of One, Reverend Todd Seely, Yankee Cockfight, Wicked Hearts
at Middle East - Upstairs, 472 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$10 / 18+

As far as punk-rockers that go acoustic, it doesn't get much better than this batch of guys especially Lenny Lashley of the fantastic Darkbuster. Then Yankee Cockfight are a couple of guys who do the rough, gutsy, down-home blooz thang with guitar, harmonica and stomping on the ground.

THUR 1/5

Miss Tess & The Bon Ton Parade, Danielle Miraglia
at Lizard Lounge/Cambridge Common, 1667 Mass Ave, Cambridge (between Harvard Sq & Porter Sq)
$10 advance / $12 door / 21+

This makes the list because advance tix were still available when I checked earlier -- and to use as an example of how we can sometime neglect the chances for free fun.

There used to be many chances to see the wonder Miss Tess and her The Bon Ton Parade swing through their tunes for free at places like Toad. Now that she's moved along, we have to take these periodic chances at her musical brass ring. And the soulful, folky Danielle Miraglia is quite good too.

WED 1/4: Talk, Film, Music

2012-01-04T11:51:00.001-05:00

Okay, I'll be brief...

There may not be any space, but BCAE is still offering $12 single-session classes tonight and tomorrow. Not a bad price to get you acquainted with Photoshop, Illustrator, or chess...

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WED 1/4

6pm to 7:30pm
Ron Della Chiesa, "Radio My Way": Reading
at Stellina Restaurant, 47 Main St, Watertown (Watertown Sq)
FREE

Longtime Boston radio legend Ron Della Chiesa has released a book about his life and love of jazz and opera.

They, say, "Free apps; cash bar"

WED 1/4

7pm
Radical Movie Night: "The Wind that Shakes the Barley"
at Lucy Parsons Center, 358A Centre St, Jamaica Plain
FREE

Director Ken Loach has more than a knack to link personal drama to social issues, and this is one of his best as we watch the fight for Irish independence in the '20s.

I assume there will be some post-film discussion.

WED 1/4

7:30pm to 10:30pm
"Now For Something Completely Different": Part 2
at All Asia Bar, 334 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
FREE / 18+

Feat: Jesse Friedberg, Adrian Emberley, Lance Riley, Brian Burke, Aaron Shadwell, Nick Consone

When you mix singer-songwriters with Monty Python videos playing in the background, it may not be completely different. It should be good fun for free!

WED 1/4

Red Abbey (11pm), Axemunkee (10pm), Today Junior (9pm)
at Church, 69 Kilmarnock St, Boston (Fenway)
$8 / 21+

An interesting mix of hard-driving, female-fronted hard rock from Red Abbey, the superb instrumental rock and guitar heroics of Axemunkee, and shift into indie-rock with Today Junior who don't really have links to their music, but there are YouTube clips like this one.

WED 1/4

9pm
The Grateful Dread
at Lizard Lounge/Cambridge Common, 1667 Mass Ave, Cambridge (between Harvard Sq & Porter Sq)
$10 / 21+

A lot of people like reggae, and a lot of people like The Grateful Dead -- so this goes down as a clever idea whether you want to hear the musical love child or not.

WED 1/4

10pm
Primordial Sounds: See Thru Band, Olden Yolk
at Middlesex Lounge, 315 Mass Ave, Cambridge (near Central Sq)
FREE / $5 Donation / 21+

When you have a beautiful flyer like that, why not check out two new, strange, trippy bands along with the usual psych/soul DJ's of pRIMORDIAL sOUNDS.

It's also free, but there's no harm in supporting the bands with a few bucks.

TUES 1/3: Dinosaurs & Rock

2012-01-03T10:26:00.002-05:00

It's funny, but I didn't see much cheapness for tonight.

For a couple dollars more than the CTB limit, the BCAE is offering several $12 single-session classes tonight, tomorrow, and Thursday. Of course, it's easier to register online.

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TUES 1/3

7pm to 8:30pm
CafeSci: "Dino Cafe"
at Middlesex Lounge, 315 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
FREE

Feat: Prof. Michael D'Emic

Cafe Sci is a semi-regular gathering where the crowd usually watches a segment from NOVA's "ScienceNow", then a scientist is there to talk about it -- mainly to answer questions and discuss it in a 'jargon-free' environment.

Tonight's topic is "How did dinosaurs get so big?" Dr. D'Emic was part of a team that recently discovered some insight to the massive size of some dinosaurs, so he's not just the average expert.

Some lucky folks will leave with Nova shwag of some kind...

TUES 1/3

9pm
Richard James & The Name Changers
at Church, 69 Kilmarnock St, Boston (Fenway)
FREE / 21+

Although it seems to be down this morning, MySecretBoston is a rather informative Boston entertainment/leisure site. They even sponsor free/cheap nights of music like this January residency.

For those who didn't go skiing on the weekend, Church will be the spot for funky, jam-bandish rock every Tuesday this month. There will be an opening act every week, but I couldn't find the schedule.

It's free, and you will feel warmer when you're dancing.

MON 1/2: Film & Music

2012-01-02T10:23:00.004-05:00

I expect the "regularly scheduled programming" should return tomorrow.

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MON 1/2

8pm
"Kassandra with a K"
at Brattle Theatre, 40 Brattle St, Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
$10 / $8 students

Take a look at the trailer, and it's clearly a low-budget film. From the the description, there is potential for an interesting story about love, delusional infatuate, and learning to accept yourself.

Co-Directors Ahmed Khawaja and Andre Puca will be in attendance.

MON 1/2

The White Owls (8pm), Andrea Gillis Band (10pm)
at Toad, 1912 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Porter Sq)
FREE

Two great bar bands that go great together. Dennis Brennan captains a kick-ass team of players through blues classics and hidden gems. Andrea Gillis is the big, soulful voice in front of her punky band.

MON 1/2

9:30pm
The Scamps, The BFs, White Pages
at Charlie's Kitchen, 10 Eliot St, Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
$5 / 21+

Hey, hey. It's Monday night, and the punks are rocking at Charlies. If you've been meaning to go, it's a brand new year.

SUN 1/1: Sunday Night Off-Topic Video

2012-01-01T18:20:00.000-05:00

It's basically a Google commercial but not a bad review of the past year...

Happy New Year!

2012-01-01T10:56:00.004-05:00

Happy New Year!

I can't believe I'm in friggin' Maine again, but I hope all had a good night and have a great year to come!

~rob

SAT 12/31: Quick NYE Cheapness

2011-12-31T09:30:00.002-05:00

In case I don't get something more posted and you feel like going out tonight, this is basically the post from a couple days ago.

For an easily readable list of NYE options of varying costs, I saw one at The Phoenix.

--------------------------------------------------------------

SAT 12/31

Various Times
First Night - Outdoors
at Various Locations around Boston
FREE / $18

There's a plethora of entertainment options available to you if you bought a button, and you could easily get your money's worth while supporting this decades-old tradition.

There seems to be less outdoor entertainment than other years, where you can walk around as a public citizen. Some of it happens early in the night for those passing by onto their destination, and there's enough free entertainment to stay out until midnight.

For example: A parade goes from Hynes Convention Center to Charles Street and finishing at Beacon Street (5:30pm to 6:15pm)... A skating performance on the Frog Pond (6pm to 7pm)... There will be 3 bands playing at the Parkman Bandstand: Amos Blood (10:45pm), Vanzetti (9:15pm), Chris North Dream Quartet (7:30pm)... Or you could be part of the crowd in WBZ-TV's live show (10pm to Midnight) at Copley Square with DJ's and performers.

If they don't melt, there should be three ice sculptures in Boston Common and two in Copley Square (including a frozen version of the Green Icicles at the MFA).

And there will be about 10 minutes of fireworks over Boston Harbor at midnight.

Bring a discreet flask of something to keep you warm...

*** For those who want to rock:

SAT 12/31

8:30pm
Casey Desmond, Herra Terra, Streight Angular, Pressure System
at Magic Room Gallery, Sound Museum, 155 N. Beacon Street, Brighton
$10 / 21+

There's a cash bar, "free midnight champagne toast (while supplies last)", and a variety of rock/synth/pop party-dance sounds.

"Dress Code: Readytoripitup"

SAT 12/31

Jenny Dee & The Deelinquents (12:45pm), John Powhida International Airport (11:45pm), Andrea Gillis Band (10:45pm), The Dirty Truckers (9:45pm)
at Radio, 379 Somerville Ave, Somerville (Union Sq)
$10

Dang, there's a lot of good rock 'n soul 'n Americana in my new favorite club which is a lot bigger then you'd think if you never went to the location's former incarnation.

I'm assuming the DJ will spin a lot of vintage garage and punk starting at 9pm. They should be open until 2am.

SAT 12/31

9:30pm
Jason Anderson & The Best, Math The Band, Ette
at PA's Lounge, 345 Somerville Ave, Somerville (Union Sq)
$10 / 18+

I expect these folks to bring a positive vibe. Jason Anderson suggests that people wear tuxedoes. Right...

*** For those who want to get folky/old-timey:

SAT 12/31

9pm
The Four Legged Faithful
at Toad, 1912 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Porter Sq)
FREE / 21+

It's probably going to be a full house for this bluegrass-y blend. Mainly because you can't fit many people in Toad.

SAT 12/31

10:30pm
Joe Fletcher & The Wrong Reasons
at Plough & Stars, 912 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$10-ish

It's probably going to be a full house at this New Year's Eve Party with a country/Americana vibe -- also mainly because isn't that much bigger than Toad.

*** For those who want to dance the night away and have a gay ol' time:

SAT 12/31

9:30pm to 2am
Don't Ask Don't Tell: "Opulence"
at Great Scott, 1222 Comm Ave, Allston
$10 before 11pm / $12 after 11pm / 21+

The theme is opulence, so think about dressing well. The drag queens and kings definitely will...

*** For those who want to funk:

SAT 12/31

10pm
Po Boyz, Jimmy Johnson
at Middle East - Corner, 480 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$5 / 21+

The Po Boyz are a organ-based funk band, and Jimmy Johnson spent the '60s and '70s playing guitar with various soul-funk bands in and out of his native New Orleans.

The cover is a $5 'donation'.

FRI 12/30: Occupy, Rock, Dance

2011-12-30T10:49:00.002-05:00

The end (of the year) is nigh!

I posted some cheap options a couple days ago, and I compiled a few cheap sparkling wines that I might drink last night.

--------------------------------------------------------------

FRI 12/30

5:30pm to 8:30pm
Occupy Boston 3rd Month Anniversary
at Dewey Square Park, Kennedy Greenway, Boston (near South Station)
FREE

Well, it was 3 months ago when the Occupiers planted themselves and began the local experiment in democratic dissent. Since they're not camping out at this point, it should be interesting to hear their current take on the meaning of 'Occupy'.

I have a feeling that the group may cross the street to cause the Federal Reserve some grief and commemorate the night when people were arrested for trying to expand the settlement.

They suggest to bring a pillow. (Do I smell a pillow fight...?)

If you don't feel like clicking the link, the hashtag for tonight's adventures is #D30.

FRI 12/30

9pm
Giant Target, Death of the Cool, Boarcorpse, Bookkeeper
at Middle East - Upstairs, 472 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$10 / 18+

I know that members of Giant Target and Death of the Cool work at the company that brought us games like "Guitar Hero" and "Rock Band", and I think you can play their songs on some of the games. (And maybe there are other Harmonix employees on the bill?)

If you're more of the "stand in the bar and listen" type, they'll whip up some big, loud, grungy rock along with the metal sounds of Boarcorpse (of course) and the indie-punky Bookkeeper.

FRI 12/30

9pm to 2am
Bootie Boston #43: The Eve of New Years Eve
at Good Life, 28 Kingston St, Boston (Downtown Crossing)
$5 / 21+

Feat: DJ Real One, DJ McFly, Spencer4Hire, Adam Balm

At one point, I was mad about mash-ups. It's still can be fun to hear several good songs at the same time, so this might be a good prelude or substitute for tomorrow night.

As usual, the first 50 people at the door get free Bootie Boston CD's.

FRI 12/30

10pm
The Pill
at Great Scott, 1222 Comm Ave, Allston
FREE / 21+

At some point, they figured that some people don't want to pay $5 for tonight's dancing AND go out on NYE (Hi, Bootie Boston).

Tonight is free, baby. Like your body should be when DJ Ken & Michael V guide you on the floor.

FRI 12/30

10:30pm
Chris Brokaw Band, Tim Foljahn, Thalia Zedek
at Plough & Stars, 912 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$5-ish

If you know about Two Dollar Guitar, then I don't need to do more than remind you that was Tim Foljahn's band -- and you probably know Chris Brokaw and Thalia Zedek.

If not, I'll say these performers have been doing cool alt-rock stuff since the '90s. (Brokaw and Zedek were in Come together.) All of them are still making intense music at varying levels of volume that will likely say "Whoa!" internally and/or externally.

Some Cheap, Sparkly Tipple for NYE

2011-12-29T23:30:00.002-05:00

Whether you go to a party, host a party, or sit in the dark with your cat; there are bubbly beverages with big dollar-to-flavor ratios. Okay, I mainly hope you keep your hands and mouths away from Andre and Korbel. It doesn't matter if you have a fake ID...

Any cava or prosecco will probably be better, but I culled a few bottles that received some positive reviews while costing few dollars.

I won't say "Under $10", because your results may vary. Here are a few ideas when you hit the packie.

--------------------------------------------------------------

Cristalino Brut Cava (Spain)

Comments:

"...both dry and full of flavor. Spanish cavas are generally not very sweet, making them the best champagne alternative (over California sparklers or Italian proseccos), and the Cristalino scores off the popularity charts in online wine tasting communities and traditional rankings, like those from Wine Spectator."

"With notes of green apple and bright citrus ...delivers the best bang for your buck"

Good stuff! Most of your ccompany will not know this is discount bubbly. Some like the rose version too.

Segura Viudas Brut Reserva (Spain)

Comments:

"The wine tastes the way it smells: apple, pear, bread, and minerals. There’s good, crisp acidity too."

"It’s fragrant and clean, and lasts on fruit, a rich style with balance."

Pretty sure I've tried it and made an "Ooooh" sound.

Freixenet Cordon Negro Brut (Spain)

Comments:

"It has a nice smell that’s a balance between fruity and buttery bread, and tasters dug the bubbles’ smoothness."

"...a noticeably balanced wine with crisp flavors and a smooth finish. Consider this brut for a variety of food options, from the fancy and formal to the informal summer gathering"

"On your tongue, it will taste quite dry, meaning there isn't an overwhelming sweetness to the wine."

"...a sparkling wine that offers excellent value and has been dubbed a 'Champagne killer.'"

"...this is a crowd-pleasing bubbly that's slightly sweet and slightly dry and everything mellow in the middle."

The multiple comments give you the idea: always dependable when you feel like a cheap sparkling wine any time of year.

Zardetto Prosecco (Italy)

Comments:

"It’s light-bodied and fruity, neither yeasty nor toasty. …dry and super-sparkling, with aggressive fizz and a fast finish."

"Soft and delicate... layering subtle nuances of lemon-lime and ripe pear."

Good flavor and a solid value.

Domaine Ste. Michelle Brut (Washington)

Comments:

"...its fresher style that’s lighter than Champagne. The apple-ness turns the mouth almost cidery for some; the finish is fresh and dry."

"...for the celebrant who wants flavor -— specifically, the toasty or oaky flavor typically found in both chardonnay and true French Champagne."

I think I've had it, and it's not bad, especially in a mimosa or a cocktail.

Gruet Brut (New Mexico)

Comments:

"...a simple, crisp sparkler with lots of appley notes."

"...crisp and full of green apple fruit, without the overdone oak and tastiness..."

The label looks fancy -- just don't let people see it's from Albuquerque.

Presto Prosecco Brut (Italy)

Comments:

"Crisp and festive, this Italian sparkler reminded blind tasters of hard cider"

"...with soft fruit, citrus, and yeast notes. The wine is very well balanced between acidity and richness."

Presto, you've made the booze disappear!

Lunetta Prosecco (Italy)

Comments:

"...a well-rounded sparkling wine. Refreshing, crisp, and medium dry, it is a delightful substitute for the much higher priced Champagne."

"Aromatic with white peach and apple on the nose; more apple, white peach, and a hint of lemon on the palate. Dry and light to medium-bodied with crisp acidity and a long finish."

It could be on sale.

THUR 12/29: Glitter, Goth, 'Gansett

2011-12-29T11:02:00.001-05:00

Maybe the people throwing the "Glitter" dance party are right. ("Thursday's the new Saturday!") There could be an interest to go out and party earlier, then let the amateurs run wild on 12/31...

--------------------------------------------------------------

THUR 12/29

9pm to 1am
"Glitter: A HollaGAY New Year's(ish) Dance Party"
at Milky Way Lounge/Bella Luna, 284 Amory St, Jamaica Plain (The Brewery Complex)
$10 before 10pm? / $12 after / 21+

If the event title didn't relay it, there will be a "Gayest Outfit" contest. "Glitter" is the theme, so they suggest wearing something shiny.

As they say, you don't have to be party of the LGBTQ community -- just anyone "who loves and supports them, or anyone that just really loves glitter."

Note: The cover is listed as $10 on the venue site, and the event site has $12 with an ambiguous mention to 10pm.

THUR 12/29

9pm
The Milling Gowns, Cooling Towers, Daniel Ouellette & The Shobijin
at Radio, 379 Somerville Ave, Somerville (Union Sq)
$5 / 21+

With the majority of people being bright and festive this time of year, isn't there room for those with a different perspective? Maybe not everyone wants to have a "happy new year". It's fine to brood if you like.

Instead of mixing with the merry-makers of Saturday night, there is dark, dramatic rock with atypical arrangements in three doses tonight.

THUR 12/29

9pm
The Narragansett Holly Jolly Holiday Party
at TT the Bear's Place, 10 Brookline St, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$10

Feat: The Wandas (Midnight), "The Blue Album" (11pm), "The Color & The Shape" (10pm), The 'Gansett Girls (9pm)

As I mentioned a couple days ago, 3 people won tickets to the Holly Jolly Holiday Party, and it looks like they chose random people who responded correctly. You can win stuff, if you try...

The Wandas charmed me at first listen with highly tuneful powerpop stuff, then lost me a little bit when I saw they included a laptop for additional instrumentation, but that's not so bad these days. The music is still good.

While I'm usually luke-warm about cover/tribute bands, "The Blue Album" and "The Colour & The Shape" are albums that I really liked by Weezer and Foo Fighters. And these folks aren't bashing it over and over again every weekend somewhere. This is the 2nd and probably last performance of "T.C&T.S."

For a night with 3 bands and burlesque, $10 is not a bad deal. When you consider that you'll probably get at least one ticket for a free 'Gansett, that's a $3 to $4 savings. (Since Narragansett Brewery considers December 29, 1890 as its birthday, the beer may be flowing even more freely...) If you walk away with a prize or shwag of some kind, that's another possible bonus.

There was a similar shindig in Providence, and there are some photos.

12/31: Cheap NYE Preview

2011-12-28T13:19:00.004-05:00

It's one of those years where we enjoy a weekend New Year's Eve, so at least there's plenty of time to 'rest yo self before you wreck yo self'...

While it sucks to pay to get into a bar where you usually just walk in, there are plenty of places that offer admission for $10 or less (or free) -- and some are listed below.

Maybe your favorite spot is going to be a cool place to go if you don't feel like going to a house party or drinking with a loved/lusted one at home...

Over in my 'hood, Olde Magoun's Saloon is not doing anything NYE-related they describe as "No cover, cheesy band, lousy DJ, noise makers, silly hats, champagne toast, amateurs", etc.

For an easily readable list of NYE options of varying costs, I saw one at The Phoenix.

A more detailed post should be forthcoming. Most of the options below are music-centric, so I separated them in "categories" instead of the usual chronological order.

I only had one gig on today's CTB calendar. Most of the people will know each other virtually, but it's free...

--------------------------------------------------------------

SAT 12/31

Various Times
First Night - Outdoors
at Various Locations around Boston
FREE / $18

There's a plethora of entertainment options available to you if you bought a button, and you could easily get your money's worth while supporting this decades-old tradition.

There seems to be less outdoor entertainment than other years, where you can walk around as a public citizen. Some of it happens early in the night for those passing by onto their destination, and there's enough free entertainment to stay out until midnight.

For example: A parade goes from Hynes Convention Center to Charles Street and finishing at Beacon Street (5:30pm to 6:15pm)... A skating performance on the Frog Pond (6pm to 7pm)... There will be 3 bands playing at the Parkman Bandstand: Amos Blood (10:45pm), Vanzetti (9:15pm), Chris North Dream Quartet (7:30pm)... Or you could be part of the crowd in WBZ-TV's live show (10pm to Midnight) at Copley Square with DJ's and performers.

If they don't melt, there should be three ice sculptures in Boston Common and two in Copley Square (including a frozen version of the Green Icicles at the MFA).

And there will be about 10 minutes of fireworks over Boston Harbor at midnight.

Bring a discreet flask of something to keep you warm...

*** For those who want to rock:

SAT 12/31

8:30pm
Casey Desmond, Herra Terra, Streight Angular, Pressure System
at Magic Room Gallery, Sound Museum, 155 N. Beacon Street, Brighton
$10 / 21+

There's a cash bar, "free midnight champagne toast (while supplies last)", and a variety of rock/synth/pop party-dance sounds.

"Dress Code: Readytoripitup"

SAT 12/31

9pm
Mellow Bravo, Township, Planetoid, Cocked N Loaded, The Grinds
at Middle East - Downstairs, 480 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$10 advance / $12 day of show / 18+

Ryan's Smashing Life "presents New Year's Eve" with rock on top of rawk on top of rock on top of punk and so on.

SAT 12/31

Jenny Dee & The Deelinquents (12:45pm), John Powhida International Airport (11:45pm), Andrea Gillis Band (10:45pm), The Dirty Truckers (9:45pm)
at Radio, 379 Somerville Ave, Somerville (Union Sq)
$10

Dang, there's a lot of good rock 'n soul 'n Americana in my new favorite club which is a lot bigger then you'd think if you never went to the location's former incarnation.

I'm assuming the DJ will spin a lot of vintage garage and punk starting at 9pm. They should be open until 2am.

SAT 12/31

9:30pm
Jason Anderson & The Best, Math The Band, Ette
at PA's Lounge, 345 Somerville Ave, Somerville (Union Sq)
$10 / 18+

I expect these folks to bring a positive vibe. Jason Anderson suggests that people wear tuxedoes. Right...

*** For those who want to get folky/old-timey:

SAT 12/31

9pm
The Four Legged Faithful
at Toad, 1912 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Porter Sq)
FREE / 21+

It's probably going to be a full house for this bluegrass-y blend. Mainly because you can't fit many people in Toad.

SAT 12/31

10:30pm
Joe Fletcher & The Wrong Reasons
at Plough & Stars, 912 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$10-ish

It's probably going to be a full house at this New Year's Eve Party with a country/Americana vibe -- also mainly because isn't that much bigger than Toad.

*** For those who want to dance the night away and have a gay ol' time:

SAT 12/31

9:30pm to 2am
Don't Ask Don't Tell: "Opulence"
at Great Scott, 1222 Comm Ave, Allston
$10 before 11pm / $12 after 11pm / 21+

The theme is opulence, so think about dressing well. The drag queens and kings definitely will...

*** For those who want to funk:

SAT 12/31

10pm
Po Boyz, Jimmy Johnson
at Middle East - Corner, 480 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$5 / 21+

The Po Boyz are a organ-based funk band, and Jimmy Johnson spent the '60s and '70s playing guitar with various soul-funk bands in and out of his native New Orleans.

The cover is a $5 'donation'.

TUES 12/27: Rap & Folk

2011-12-27T11:21:00.001-05:00

I admire performers that still do their thing in the week before New Years Eve.

If you're not saving up your energy to go overboard on NYE, then you're probably recharging the batteries after running around during the holidays. (And sometimes both apply.)

The CTB calendar should already have all the cheapness before 12/31, and I should have 12/31 and the rest of the weekend up soon.

There could also be a NYE Preview also.

Heck, you might even still be able to get free tix to the THUR 12/29 gig at TT's...

--------------------------------------------------------------

TUES 12/27

9pm
Outland Camp, Weird Die Young, Dopemen, Wayne Da Payne, Jnuts, Full Effect, Vocal
at Middle East - Upstairs, 472 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$10 / All Ages

Hosted By DJ Turnament & Ricky Mortis

If you wanted to hear some live hip-hop last night but the timing didn't work for you, then you have another chance tonight.

TUES 12/27

Ryan Fitzsimmons & Friends (7:30pm), Ryan Lee Crosby & The Red Heroine (10pm)
at Toad, 1912 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Porter Sq)
FREE

If you like your folkiness on the traditional side, the early show is your cup of tea. If you like it more emo and indie, arrive closer to the later show.

Of course, your entitled to enjoy both cups of tea along with more adult beverages.

12/29: Chance to Win Tix to 'Gansett Party

2011-12-26T20:45:00.000-05:00

9pm
The Narragansett Holly Jolly Holiday Party
at TT the Bear's Place, 10 Brookline St, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$10

Feat: The Wandas, "The Blue Album", "The Color & The Shape", The 'Gansett Girls

It would be worth $10 to hear the fine pop-rock of The Wandas along with Weezer and Foo Fighters tribute bands. There are also going to be a performance by Rhode Island's 'Gansett Girls.

However there is a chance to win tickets by leaving a comment on the Narragansett blog with the answers to 3 questions.

I'm not sure if they're only giving to the early respondents or if they will randomly choose windows.

I can say the first 6 commenters all have the same answers, I wouldn't even do the research and follow their lead.

Even if you pay, you could leave with some shwag and some free beer in your belly...

MON 12/26: Amtrak Edition

2011-12-26T10:17:00.000-05:00

So Xmas night was fun, and I didn't do much of anything after dinner. Now I'm on a train somewhere in New Hampshire.

In case I don't finish the full day's post, the calendar has:

Blues and rock 'n roll in Porter Square...

Hip-hop near Fenway...

Semi-trippy, fuzzy rock in Central Square at TT's, and loud punk in the tiny ZuZu...

And there's Scottish Boxing Day fun with a gift swap based on a quiz...

SUN 12/25: Sunday Night Off-Topic Video

2011-12-25T18:30:00.001-05:00

Ho-ho-ho... Get drunk and recite "Twas the Night Before Christmas" along with the video.

Drunk History Christmas with Ryan Gosling, Jim Carrey and Eva Mendes from Ryan Gosling

SUN 12/25: Holiday Stuff...?

2011-12-25T11:19:00.000-05:00

Feliz Navidad, amigos!

Would you like a suggestion for a Xmas Day from a stranger? Perhaps you do.

Do the Chinatown meal. Maybe walk through the Common even though the skating rink is closed today.

If you're willing to trek to the far corner of North End, Aragosta has something called "Ultimate Hot Chocolate Bar" (2pm to 5pm) every Saturday & Sunday where you get a cup of hot chocolate with various whipped cream and topping choices for $4. You can add a "chef's dessert tasting" for $6, and they'll add booze to your cocoa for $4 more.

If you drive, parking meters are free in Boston today.

Other than that, I suggest basically the same as yesterday.

Hopefully, I have more time for cheap-blogging after holiday celebrations tonight.

--------------------------------------------------------------

SUN 12/25

11am to 6pm
The Enchanted Village
at Jordan's Furniture, 100 Stockwell Dr, Avon
FREE

Maybe because this chunk of Boston history is part of my childhood memories, but I think the barely-animated displays of winter scenes look really friggin' creepy!

The semi-realistic mannequins that usually have one slowly-moving element reminds me of an old "Twilight Zone" episode. Maybe chug a bottle of cough syrup, have a blueberry muffin, and brave the long lines...

Someone at About went a couple weeks ago, and the lines were long (obviously).

I think it's open today and will stay open until New Year's Day.

SUN 12/25 (thru ???)

After Dark
Illuminations: Self Tour
around Somerville (Winter Hill, Union Sq, East Somerville)
$5 to $3 to FREE

Did you miss the trolley tours but still want to bask in Somerville's multi-colored glow. It wouldn't be too hard to drive around at your own pace and enjoy the glowing gaudiness. Any can walk it, of course, depending on how far or long one wants to go.

It's probably too late to but Illuminations book or map.

Some people rode their bicycles along the route last week, and they made a Google map. It ain't as pretty, but it gives you an idea where to go...

SAT 12/24: Some Holiday Cheapness

2011-12-24T10:39:00.002-05:00

As I expected, I didn't find any cheap fun that wasn't holiday-related -- and it's a similar situation tomorrow. Here are a couple diversions if you're in the mood.

Maybe catch a movie...

Happy Christma-Hanu-Kwanza!

Enjoy the weekend with loved ones. (Or with a big bowl of egg nog, whatever.)

--------------------------------------------------------------

SAT 12/24

11am to 4pm
The Enchanted Village
at Jordan's Furniture, 100 Stockwell Dr, Avon
FREE

Christmas (?) -- 11am to 6pm

Maybe because this chunk of Boston history is part of my childhood memories, but I think the barely-animated displays of winter scenes look really friggin' creepy!

The semi-realistic mannequins that usually have one slowly-moving element reminds me of an old "Twilight Zone" episode. Maybe chug a bottle of cough syrup, have a blueberry muffin, and brave the long lines...

Someone at About went a couple weeks ago, and the lines were long (obviously).

I think it's open tomorrow and will stay open until New Year's Day.

SAT 12/24 (thru ???)

After Dark
Illuminations: Self Tour
around Somerville (Winter Hill, Union Sq, East Somerville)
$5 to $3 to FREE

Did you miss the trolley tours but still want to bask in Somerville's multi-colored glow. It wouldn't be too hard to drive around at your own pace and enjoy the glowing gaudiness. Any can walk it, of course, depending on how far or long one wants to go.

There are a couple ways to go:

The "City of Lights" booklet has profiles of many decorators with street addresses in the back. It's sells for $5 at various Somerville & Cambridge stores. It's nice little book on the Illumination tradition. Ad the proceeds go to the Somerville Arts Council, which does a lot of cool stuff throughout the year.

It's possible/probable that some of those listed in that booklet don't still go full-bore, so you can pick up this year's route map for $3 at Blue Cloud (Ball Sq) and Magpie (Davis Sq). Proceeds also go to the Somerville Arts Council, and they should also have the "City of Lights".

Some people also rode their bicycles along the route last week, and they made a Google map. It ain't as pretty, but it gives you an idea where to go...

SAT 12/24

7:30pm
Christmas Caroling
at Louisburg Square, about 90 Mount Vernon St, Boston (Beacon Hill)
FREE

There is a YouTube of the Beacon Hill Bell Ringers leading some carols last Christmas Eve.

The picture is a bit dark. One can hear the singing and the bells that doesn't really seem that exciting, but this is Beacon Hill. The American caroling tradition supposedly began here over 100 years ago. (I found another clipping from 1966.)

There's no official website. As I understand it, the singers & ringer stroll around the Square at the different houses. They may even stop and sing in front of Senator Kerry's house.

Feel free to sing along or just observe a Boston tradition.

FRI 12/23: Dinner Coupon, Perhaps?

2011-12-23T16:15:00.003-05:00

Hey, I meant to mention it earlier, but it's also valid from MON 12/26 thru FRI 12/30...

If you go out to eat tonight (or next week), the City of Boston Holiday site has a $10 voucher for selected restaurants -- besides discounts to holiday shows/events. There's a PDF version to print out.

As you can see, I think the main catch is:

Enjoy $10 off when you spend $40 or more.

The wording seems ambiguous to me, but I believe it kicks when your food total is more than $40. (If the restaurants follow the deal, it also says "Excludes tax, alcohol and gratuity.")

There seems to be a cluster near Faneuil Hall (Dick's Last Resort, Kingfish Hall, McCormick & Schmicks, Ned Devine's, Mija Cantina) and a few in the general Back Bay area (Brasserie JO, M.J. O'Connors, Xhale).

There's a couple in the Seaport (606 Congress, Aura), a couple in the North End (Davide, Maurizio's), and a couple in Cambridge (Upstairs on the Square, Sidney's Grille).

Some others: Fajitas & 'Ritas (Downtown Crossing), Masa Restaurant (South End), Fugakyu (Brookline), Brunello Bistro (Somerville), Yoki (sushi in Medford?)...

There are some fancy/expensive places on the list, but it doesn't say you have to be more than a party of one...

FRI 12/23: Jazz, Punk, Funk, Film

2011-12-23T11:39:00.002-05:00

Happy Festivus!

It's too bad didn't find any public celebrations to share today. Feel free to have the 'Airing of Grievances' and 'Feats of Strength' around your own aluminum pole...

It's going to be slim pickings for cheap fun this weekend, but I think I might have a few idea-ers up later...

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FRI 12/23

8pm
Taylor Ho Bynum Sextet, Aych
at Outpost 186, 186 1/2 Hampshire St, Cambridge (Inman Sq)
$10 or b/o

This should be a pretty darn fine jazz gig with a serious group of players. The sextet celebrating the release of a new album that falls somewhere heavy-improv and avant-chamber.

Half of them will also perform as Aych -- I believe it's named after the 3 H's of Jim Hobbs (sax), Mary Halvorson (guitar), and Taylor Ho Bynum (cornet).

FRI 12/23

9pm
The FU's, The Jabbers, Red Line Rebels, Josephin, The Manglers
at Midway Cafe, 3496 Washington St, Jamaica Plain
$10 / 21+

Get ready for a "Punk Rock Christmas Massacre". It actually could be a scary show, because The Jabbers is the band where the infamous GG Allin began his career of musical terror. And The FU's started playing a few gigs again last year after being part of the original Boston hardcore scene.

FRI 12/23

9:30pm
Sasquatch & the Sick-a-Billys, The Mishits, Tex Railer's Doomtown
at O'Brien's, 3 Harvard St, Allston
$8 / 21+

If punkabilly/psychobilly is more up your alley, there will be no better location in Allston tonight. Plus you get a Misfits tribute band.

(It makes think that Glenn Danzig in Santa garb could be amusing. Hold on, let me do a quick image search... Not exactly what I was hoping for since there is photoshopping at work.)

FRI 12/23

10pm
Johnny D's Holiday Party
at Johnny D's, 17 Holland St, Somerville (Davis Sq)
$10

Feat: Funky White Honkies

I think of Dinty Child in the context of playing with Session Americana and the like, but Funky White Honkies dates back to his college days. And it will be funky honkies propelling a wild dance party to shake out any holiday stress or simply have a good ol' time.

FRI 12/23

Midnight
"Silent Night, Deadly Night"
at Coolidge Corner Theatre, 290 Harvard St, Brookline
$9

Nothing says Christmas like a department-store Santa going on a bloody murder spree to eradicate those who end up on his "naughty list"...

MA Photo: Vermin Supreme for Prez

2011-12-22T18:00:00.002-05:00

So I'm going a little crazy with the holiday crunch and family from out of town. I hope to get whatever near-future cheapness up soon.

Until then, I thought I'd share this with you...

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This was my favorite from the Guardian's slideshow of fringe Presidential candidates.

Meet Vermin Supreme, aged 62, who wants to be the Democratic candidate for President.

I know what you're thinking: Of course, a Republican could never hope to make it out of Iowa with a big, green fist jutting out of their crotch.

This is his 6th consecutive run for Commander-in-Chief, and he even got 42 votes in NH when Hilary edged out Barack. And he may be correct in saying he's "the only bona-fide American Presidential Candidate to actually donate a living organ [rv: a kidney]."

Does he look familiar?

His hometown is ~~Gloucester, Mass~~ Rockport, Mass.

Update: I believe the Gloucester Times article about Mr. Supreme.

THUR 12/22: Parties & Music

2011-12-22T11:26:00.003-05:00

Happy Winter Solstice!

I would like to list the Solstice Circus at the Plough & Stars tonight, but the last one was $12.

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THUR 12/22

7pm to Midnight
"The Workmen's Circle's Annual Radical Hanukkah Dance Party"
at All Asia Bar, 334 Mass Ave, Cambridge (near Central Sq)
$5 to $10 -- sliding scale

Feat: DJ Ross of Love, DJ Treefingers, Boston Sass Attack, Hanukkah Hootenany Band, more

I assume the 3rd night of Chanukah is celebrated with DJ's, cheerleading, live bluegrass/klezmer, a "human menorah"(?), and lots of dancing.

THUR 12/22

8:30pm
TallBoy Industries Holiday Party
at Church, 69 Kilmarnock St, Boston (Fenway)
$10 / 21+

Feat: Big Digits, The WonderMics, Immigrants

You can dance on the other side of the river with a funky, hip-hop holiday party.

Why is it a holiday party? Because it's the holiday season, and someone will have a Santa hat on... (TallBoy Industries sounds like a company I'd like to work...)

THUR 12/22

The Okay Win (Midnight), Orca Orca (11pm), Roman Numeral Three (10pm), The Sound of Growing Up (9pm)
at TT the Bear's Place, 10 Brookline St, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$8 / 18+

I'd be willing to bet this is the last gig of the year for most bands. I know it is for folkish indie-rockers The Okay Win who also played their first gig of the year at TT's. It's a solid lineup of what I'd call folk-rock-indie-pop from top to bottom.

There'll be a lot of good tunes wafting through the air all the way bak to the pool tables.

THUR 12/22

9:30pm
The Scrooges, Black Thai, Cult 45, Stil de Grain
at Great Scott, 1222 Comm Ave, Allston
$8 / 18+

A bunch of rockers from various hard 'n heavy bands don their dirty Santa suits and rip through songs by Iggy Pop & The Stooges. Can you feel holiday spirit?

What seemed like a lark when it began a few years ago has turned into a loud yuletide tradition that had the Scrooges bouncing around various venues for a couple weeks.

WED 12/21: Science, Stories, Music

2011-12-21T10:15:00.000-05:00

Benjamin Disraeli was born on this day in 1804, and he said:

Be amusing: never tell unkind stories; above all, never tell long ones.

Without further ado...

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WED 12/21

5pm to 7pm
Virtual Worlds Ideas-in-Progress Exhibition
at Cloud Place, 647 Boylston St, Boston (Copley Sq)
FREE

This is a chance to interact with the future change-makers of the world and feel a little hopeful by talking to them about their science projects.

"Light food and refreshments will be served."

WED 12/21

9pm
StoryLiars: "That's The Sound Of Da Police"
at Milky Way Lounge/Bella Luna, 284 Amory St, Jamaica Plain (The Brewery Complex)
FREE

Feat: Ted Pettingell, Brendan Thomas Crowley, Dan Crohn, Al Park, Laura Crawford, Dan Boulger, Mike O'B, Evan Kenney, Harry Gordon, Christa Weiss, Ethan Marsh, Lillian DeVane, Ryan Douglass

Hosted by: Walter Cornelius, Rob Crean

Every month or so, a group of funny people and/or good storytellers get together under different themes. The twist is that one of them is lying, and the audience guesses the culprit.

Tonight's theme revolves around brushes with the law, so any outlandish story could be true... I suspect a couple people will perform some stand-up comedy as well.

You can't be disappointed with any prize after you get into the show for free, right?

WED 12/21

9pm
For the Sake of the Song: The Band's "Music from Big Pink"
at Great Scott, 1222 Comm Ave, Allston
$10 advance / $12 day of show

Feat: Greg Klyma, Dressing the Debutantes, Autumn Hollow, John Colvert & the Great Brighton Fire, Patrick Coman & the Lo-Fi Angels, Sam Otis Hill

I'm listing this because:

1) It looks like you can still get a $10 ticket online.
2) They're playing "Music From Big Pink" from beginning to end, which works really as a whole listening experience.
3) It's a benefit show (I think for a local music program offshoot of this group).

TUES 12/20: Hula, Art, Nirvana

2011-12-20T11:29:00.003-05:00

I'm not Jewish, 3pm seems a little early in the day to 'light the first candle' of the Boston Common menorah...?

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TUES 12/20

8pm to 10pm
Hula Workshop
at Johnny D's, 17 Holland St, Somerville (Davis Sq)
$10

This has to be the "Pick of the Week" for people with seasonal affective disorder!

There are regular hula lessons down in Cranston, RI, where you can study with someone who learned in Hawaii and has been sharing her knowledge for a couple decades.

No one has to get up and join in, but you really want to learn a few moves. Don't you? Still it might be amusing to ask up the tunes and culture after a tropical storm has passed through town.

TUES 12/20

8pm to 11pm
"FLUXmas"
at Yes.Oui.Si. Space, 19 Vancouver St, Boston (between MFA & MassArt)
FREE

As a fan of Surrealism (and surrealism in general), it's natural to also appreciate the Dadaist, experimental Fluxus movement that began in the '60s and often includes elements chance/randomness and absurdity in the art and performances.

Personally, I think it's cool that Yoko Ono was deep in the Fluxus scene when she met John Lennon. Beck also grew up around his Fluxus grandfather.

Tonight, there will be some Fluxus musical performances, poetry, and other artistic yuletide strangeness. One fellow is going to lie naked on the floor while others drop presents on him.

Yes, that is one of the scheduled activities...

TUES 12/20

9pm
Nirvana Tribute
at Precinct, 70 Union Sq, Somerville (Union Sq)
FREE

Feat: Nirvana set (11pm), The Days Weight (10pm), The Lousy Instruments (9pm), Paul Clark (8:30pm)

Dang, it sucks to remember when Nirvana's "Nevermind" first came out -- when you realize this is the 20th anniversary of the album. They really did change the music world for a while, and they're probably my favorite band of the '90s.

After a comedian kick things off and The Days Weight & The Lousy Instruments do their folk-rock and rock-rock things, some of the musicians will constitute a 'house band'. Members of other bands such as The Motivated Sequence, The Blue Moves, The Fat Creeps, and others will get up to do a Nirvana nugget(s).

Patrick of The Days Weight told me, "I'm sort of hoping for some spontaneity and random performances as well."

So think about it, Cobain fanatics...

MON 12/19: Swap/Talk,

2011-12-19T09:22:00.003-05:00

Yep, it's one of those Cambridge Mondays. At least there are free to get in...

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MON 12/19

7pm to 9pm
Boston Skeptics in the Pub: "Holiday Hooligans' War on Christmas"
at Tommy Doyle's, 96 Winthrop St, Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
FREE

Is it a battle against if people want to have a yankee swap without celebrating Jesus who started the tradition with his disciples? You be the judge. Just bring a wrapped gift ($10 limit).

There will probably be a speaker or two that might have some secular-humanist opinions about the holiday season, etc.

MON 12/19

8pm
New Works Series: "Little Black Topsy and the Magical White Fairy Soap"
at Club Oberon, 2 Arrow St, Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
FREE

When little Topsy sees a soap ad, she gets the impression that blackness is something that needs to fixed. The play follows her search with elements of dance and multimedia.

A while ago, writer-director-star Cori Spencer said:

... it has been my goal to implement a movement vocabulary which not only expresses the tension that I witness between whiteness and blackness, but manifests that tension in the movements of a singular body.

Although there have been other performances, the New Works Series provides a chance to see a modern fairy tale on race and gender.

MON 12/19

10pm
You Won't, Dolfish
at ZuZu!, 474 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
FREE / 21+

I remember noticing Dolfish earlier this year, because he sings higher than you'd expect. The Cleveland dude is back in town, and fans of Daniel Johnston or Violent Femmes should get into his matter-of-fact tales.

A pair of local guys sound like they don't care whether you pay attention or not, but there's a lot to like in the well-crafted folky indie-rock and interesting lyrics. Will you be sorry if you're out and about in Central Square? You won't.

SUN 12/18: Sunday Night Off-Topic Video

2011-12-18T19:01:00.002-05:00

Now that his voice has been silenced, I doubt Christopher Hitchens would want to rest in peace. No one could agree with him all the time, but I respected his fierce, intellectual perspectives.

There are so many videos of Christopher Hitchens (like a compilation from Vanity Fair that's not embeddable), but I liked this one of him in a Santa hat and singing.

SUN 12/18: Holiday Stuff

2011-12-18T11:42:00.001-05:00

If you want to spend the whole day walking and singing in JP, there is plenty of company for you as you can see below.

I'm not sure if the Charles Hotel skating rink is opening today as scheduled.

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SUN 12/18

1pm to 3pm
2nd Annual Jamaica Pond Winter Solstice Celebration
at Jamaica Pond Gazebo, about 507 Jamaicaway, Boston
FREE

1pm -- Haiku and Nature Poetry Open Reading
2pm -- Winter Solstice bird walk

Feat: Dorothy Derifield, Carolyn Gregory, Susanna Kittredge, Jim LaFond Lewis, Sandra Storey, Jeffrey Chasin

Maybe it would feel like winter, if I stood outside in the cold for an hour while listening to poetry.

Then there's a guy who looks like Frederick Law Olmsted. Gerry Wright has created a one-man play as Olmsted and will go on the walk in character to discuss the landscape he designed and probably point out some birds.

The day is a cold, but the cider will be hot.

SUN 12/18

2pm
"3rd Annual Vintage Christmas Show"
at Harvard Film Archive, 24 Quincy St., Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
FREE

Howard Burr collected films for about 60 years, and Harvard has the whole kit and caboodle. They've scoured the films to find some holiday shorts in 16mm and 35mm.

I can imagine there could be some hilarious glimpses into the past.

"This program is appropriate for the whole family"

SUN 12/18

4pm
Annual Caroling Mob
meet at Forest Hills T, about 3798 Washington St, Jamaica Plain
FREE

A bunch of festive souls walk around JP and sing holiday songs, and all singers of any size, shape, creed, or ability are welcome to join along. (They'll leave about 4:15pm.)

They suggest:
Bring candle lanterns (Lantern Parade lanterns work great), weather-appropriate clothing and gloves, festive hats and scarves, mugs for drinking Wassail (if you want to be green), and your good cheer.

When the time is right (cold and/or hunger), they'll hit a pub.

SUN 12/18

4pm
"A Light Through The Ages"
at Emmanuel Church, 15 Newbury St, Boston (Back Bay)
FREE

It's difficult to say what to expect from a program of choral holiday music in honor of the "Festival of Lights". I think Rabbi Howard A. Berman, one of the Boston Jewish Spirit founders, will also read/perform his story of Chanukah at different times in history.

SUN 12/18

9pm
Holiday Show
at Great Scott, 1222 Comm Ave, Allston
FREE / 18+

Feat: Girlfriends, Bearstronaut

Everyone is welcome to hang out and check out some great garage and synth-pop.

You don't have to bring an unwrapped toy(s) for Great Scott's annual toy drive, but it will probably go to a kid that will really appreciate it.

Saturday Night Briefly

2011-12-17T11:32:00.004-05:00

Okay, gotta run out of town for the day, just know that Saturday night has...

* A Tom Petty tribute at the Arts at The Armory (9pm / $8)

* Awesome poppy/garagey rock at O'Brien's in Allston (9pm / $8)

* Alt-country at Sally O'Brien's in Somerville (9pm / Free)

* Heavier indie-rock around the corner at Radio (9pm / $5)

* A more folk-rock mix in the other direction at Precinct (9pm / $10)

SAT 12/17: Day Cheapness

2011-12-17T09:33:00.003-05:00

Maybe you'll see something that tickles your fancy...

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SAT 12/17

Noon
Boston Santacon 2011
meet at Tavern in the Square, 1815 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Porter Sq)
FREE

Schedule:

Noon -- Christopher's & Tavern in the Square

2pm -- Cambridge Common, Temple Bar, West Side Lounge, O'Sullivan's(?)

3:30pm -- Grafton Street, John Harvard's, Whitney's, Grendel's, Charlie's Kitchen

(Mini-jump) -- People's Republik, Plough & Stars

5pm (dinner) -- Tavern in the Square, The Asgard, Cantab Lounge, Miracle of Science

9:30pm -- Middlesex Lounge, Zuzu, Phoenix Landing

Who doesn't love hundreds of Santas stumbling from bar to bar? Either put on you red felt suit or sit back and enjoy the spectacle.

Of course, no bar can hold all of them. Drinkers along Mass Ave may be naughty or nice, so you better watch out and you better not cry. You better be ready to dance with someone jolly if you join near the end.

SAT 12/17

1pm to 3pm
"Everyone Loves Latkes"
in front of Crema Cafe, 27 Brattle St, Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
FREE

This may be the fourth annual event where various nearby restaurants donate hundreds of latkes and condiments in the Chanukkah spirit.

If you're in Harvard Square, grab a free potato pancake or more…

SAT 12/17

4pm to 6pm
Candlelight Carols
at Trinity Church, 206 Clarendon St, Boston (Copley Sq)
Donation appreciated

3pm -- Doors open
3:30pm -- Prelude music begins

Let's be clear that this is a religious service, so they will be including some original Christmas content with the singing.

When they mention that the doors open an hour ahead of time, I expect it to be a full church.

They say, "While tickets are not required, a free-will offering is gratefully received at these services."

SAT 12/17

6pm
2nd Annual Illuminations Bicycle Tour
meet at the Somerville High School, 81 Highland Ave, Somerville (Spring Hill)
$5 suggested donation

Your chances of getting on an Illuminations trolley tour is almost nil, because no one will buy tickets and bail unless there's a good reason.

They say the bicycle ride will be relatively slow and should last about an hour with a bunch of stops to admire the overwhelming holiday decorations, and Somerville has some of the most ridiculous around.

Required -- warm clothes & bike lights
Recommended -- holiday lights, costumes & good cheer

Expect to leave at 6:20pm.

Your donation benefits the Somerville Arts Council.

SAT 12/17

7pm
International Pancake Film Festival
at The New Art Center, 61 Washington Park, Newtonville
FREE

If you live in Newton and wonder why you have to travel to so many cheap thrills, stick around your 'hood for silly short films about pancakes.

The ones I watched are weird, so plan your high to be in the 'munchies zone', so you can take advantage of the free pancakes and have 'the best time ever'.

(Cash bar too.)

Weekend Calendar

2011-12-16T19:00:00.000-05:00

A few things about the weekend:

Only the Somerville Illuminations Bike Tour is listed, because the trolley tours were basically sold out about 5 days ago. If you go to City Hall on Saturday, you can buy a map for a self-guided tour.

Although over $10, there are 2 good benefit shows at Arlington's Regent Theatre on Saturday and Sunday.

I didn't add it to the list, but there is a Batman-themed art show in Union Square tomorrow (4pm to 9pm).

12/16: Free Shipping Day

2011-12-16T12:35:00.001-05:00

Friday cheapness is below and on the calendar (thru Sunday).

-------------------------------------------

Few things are guaranteed, but this seems like it's worth a shot if you want to get merchandise delivered by 12/25.

If you go to the Free Shipping Day site, they claim to have 2,590 particpating merchants -- so chances are good to find something you're looking for.

It also has options to view businesses that have "no minimum" offers or "faster-delivery" offers or free return shipping.

Some of merchants who are also sweetening the deal today include:

J Crew -- 30% off
Ice.com -- $25 off
Lands' End -- 40% off
eBags -- 20% off
Shoes.com -- 20% off
Gander Mountain -- $20 off orders over $100
Tommy Hilfiger -- 40% off everything (except watches and fragrances)
Hush Puppies -- $10 off

The stuff should arrive by 12/24 in the contiguous U.S. for in-stock merchandise. Of course, "Some restrictions may apply."

I know this doesn't jibe with my urgings to shop locally, but sometimes that doesn't always do the trick.

I have -- and will -- buy local & independent goods!

FRI 12/16: Film, Comedy, Music

2011-12-16T11:30:00.001-05:00

That's just too weird NOT to share...

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FRI 12/16 (and SAT 12/17)

7pm
International Pancake Film Festival
at The New Art Center, 61 Washington Park, Newtonville
FREE

If you live in Newton and wonder why you have to travel to so many cheap thrills, stick around your 'hood for silly short films about pancakes.

There will be free pancakes (and a cash bar)...

FRI 12/16

7:30pm to 9:30pm
Anderson Comedy: "The Gas"
at Great Scott, 1222 Comm Ave, Allston
$5

Feat: James Parkinson, Reid Faylor, Andrew Short, Phoebe Robinson

If you haven't had a good laugh this week, perhaps you could find some assistance at Great Scott tonight. They serve all sorts of alcoholic beverages. Oh, comedians will also perform.

If you keep on drinking, The Pill will get swinging around 10pm and The Blackboard Nails will play at some point.

FRI 12/16

9pm
"Beantown Holiday Bop"
at TT the Bear's Place, 10 Brookline St, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$10 / 18+

Feat: The Raging Teens, Roy Sludge, Port Charles Quintet, Sean Mencher, Dewitt Does Cash

The most excellent Raging Teens are hosting their annual Holiday Hoedown of rockabilly and country with a dash of garage rock courtesy of the Port Charles Quintet. Yes, there will be a Johnny Cash tribute group. If you show up early, Narragansett might have a little gift for you...

DJ Easy Ed will keep toes tapping between sets.

FRI 12/16

9pm
The Scrooges, Cortez, Double Nines
at Radio, 379 Somerville Ave, Somerville (Union Sq)
$5 / 21+

Ain't it wonderful that we have a bunch of sleazy rockers in dirty Santa suits who rip through a bunch of songs by Iggy Pop & The Stooges?

What seemed like a lark when it began a few years ago has turned into a loud yuletide tradition that had the Scrooges bouncing around various venues for a couple weeks.

This gig is going to friggin' rawk since you also get the heaviness of Cortez and loud-'n-fast punch of Double Nines.

The Scrooges are also at Great Scott on THUR 12/22.

FRI 12/16

10pm
One Happy Island, Let's Whisper
at Toad, 1912 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Porter Sq)
FREE

There is nothing wrong with having a few pints and listening to some easygoing indie-pop. There is quite a few things right with it.

THUR 12/15: Books, Laughs, Tunes

2011-12-15T10:08:00.003-05:00

If you love shellfish and you're around Newbury Street tonight, there's a cooking demo for a scallop cookbook at Trident Booksellers (7pm). I bet there will be samples passed out at the end...

By the way, there is cheapness through Sunday on the calendar (maybe a few more items to be added).

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THUR 12/15

7pm
Sophie Blackall, "Missed Connections: Love, Lost & Found"
at Brookline Booksmith, 279 Harvard St, Brookline (Coolidge Corner)
FREE

Isn't funny how the "Missed Connections" on Craigslist (or any publication) can set the imagination in motion? Illustrator Sophie Blackall turns her talents to delightful recreations of her favorites, and many of them have been put together in a book.

Also appearing will be Judy Rosenberg of Rosie's Bakery to promote her awesomely titled "The Rosie's Bakery All-Butter, Cream-Filled, Sugar-Packed Baking Book".

THUR 12/15

8pm
Chandler Travis Holiday Extravaganza
at Johnny D's, 17 Holland St, Somerville (Davis Sq)
$20 -- or whatever you can afford

Feat: Livingston Taylor, Jen D'Angora, The Upper Crust, The Connolly / Conley Christmas Singers, Merrie Amsterberg, Jennifer Kimball, Miriam, Factory Seconds, Alastair Moock, "Athol Thingerth", more

I know this isn't technically $10, but there is the "whatever you can afford" option. And the flyer above made me chuckle.

There are so many good musicians playing -- how can this be anything but a good time. (The Connolly / Conley Christmas Singers are Jeff from The Lyres and Clint from Mission of Burma doing a few Xmas tunes.)

All proceeds go to the Somerville Homeless Coalition, which is a worthwhile cause. So don't say you can only afford $10 then buy a round of shots for strangers...

THUR 12/15

8pm
Awkward Compliment's Comedy Night
at Somerville Theatre, 55 Davis Square, Somerville
$5

Feat: Fists of Joy, Christa Weiss, Laura Crawford, Hollywood Gudernatch

Want a few laughs tonight? Across the street from Chandler's Holiday Extravaganza, Awkward Compliment hosts a comedy show every Thursday night at the Somerville Theatre. Some of the folks from last night's listing are performing tonight as well.

And they serve beer and wine like any civilized movie theater should.

THUR 12/15

Swaggerin' Growlers (11pm), Bryan McPherson (10pm), Jeff Rowe (9pm), Mark Lind (8pm)
at Church, 69 Kilmarnock St, Boston (Fenway)
$10 / 21+

At some point, Bryan McPherson moved to Berkeley. Although he says it didn't have to do with the power-to-the-people themes in his music. A bunch of folky-punky friends are joining him for a gig while he's back in town.

THUR 12/15

Chad Perrone (10:45pm), Mieka Pauley (9:45pm), Lauren Flaherty (8:45pm)
at TT the Bear's Place, 10 Brookline St, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$10 / 18+

I haven't seen Chad Perrone or Lauren Flaherty in person. The construction of their songs are musically valid and the performances are good, but only Mieka Pauley strikes a nerve with me.

I get the feeling some or all of them will have backing bands rather than solo sets. Consider this as one sure thing and a two chances to be impressed.

THUR 12/15

9pm
The Weisstronauts, Hillbilly Holiday, The Rudds
at Radio, 379 Somerville Ave, Somerville (Union Sq)
$5 / 21+

Wow, this is the 12th year that The Weisstronauts have played a "Holiday Jubilee" show. This is the kind of instrumental rock where I don't miss the vocals, because the playing is so good without going over the top. The show starts off with a bunch of indie-rockers who have gone country, and The Rudds shake off the mothballs for a return of their twisted pop-soul-rock goodness.

WED 12/14: Theater, Music, Comedy

2011-12-14T10:38:00.000-05:00

Yeah, there's only roots music below. I didn't mean to do that...

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WED 12/14 (thru SAT 12/17)

Various Times
"Woyzeck"
at Miller & Copeland Studios, 3rd Floor, CFA Bldg, 855 Comm Ave, Boston (BU campus)
FREE

Wednesday -- 7:30pm
Thursday -- 7:30pm (talk-back follows)
Friday -- 5:30pm & 9pm
Saturday -- 8:00pm

Maybe a German modernist play about a soldier flipping his lid and killing his lover (based on a true story) isn't exactly holiday fare, but who needs yuletide spirits 24-7?

My interest was piqued when I saw a photo of David Tennant in the role on Duke University's "Woyzeck" mini-site (under "Jealousy & Violence").

They say "tickets are limited and must be reserved by emailing."

WED 12/14

8pm
Old Time Music Xmas show
at Johnny D's, 17 Holland St, Somerville (Davis Sq)
$10

Feat: Will Mentor, Notorious, The Hi-Tone Ramblers, The Dixie Buttercups, Put Your Hoe Down, Ed Britt & Don Borchelt, The Dreaded Banjo Orchestra

When they say "old-time", they mean it. These string bands and will be playing a lot of traditional Appalachian music, and there will probably be a bunch of contra dancers. (There will be clogging!")

Even if you don't know the steps, these are the type of people who will gladly help you with the dancing.

Just reading "Dreaded Banjo Orchestra" makes me laugh and gives me the shivers. About a dozen banjoists are led by Rick Lee, and I found a couple mp3's deep in his site. You be the judge.

Festivities are hosted by Sandy Sheehan of Sandy's Music.

WED 12/14

9:30pm
"Yoga Cult Comedy Show"
at The Lily Pad, 1353 Cambridge St, Cambridge (Inman Sq)
$5

Feat: Awkward Compliment, Matt D, Sean Wilkinson, Christa Weiss, Niraj Shah, Laura Crawford

As someone who tries to pay attention, there is indeed a comedy night at the Lily Pad on the second Wednesday of the month. Thankfully people are being funny in Inman Square for the people that didn't realize ImprovBoston moved to Central Sq a couple years ago... And there happens to be an improv group along with the usual stand-up comedy tonight.

They don't serve drinks, so budget some time to pound a couple pints at The Druid or Bukowski's.

WED 12/14 (and 12/21)

10:30pm
Kay McKinstry
at Plough & Stars, 912 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
FREE-ish

If you didn't wander into the Plough last Wednesday night, you missed rootsy chanteuse Kay McKinstry and her team of musical ninjas. Fear not, there's always tonight and next week.

On several occasions, I happened to see Kay sing back-up (and knit when not singing) with another band. When she started her own thing, it was a joy to hear her beautiful voice at full strength doing what I'd call torchy, twangy alt-country/Americana.

TUES 12/13: Talk, Film, Rock

2011-12-13T09:33:00.004-05:00

FYI: Cheap stuff through Friday is on the calendar.

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TUES 12/13

6pm
Carl Zimmer, "Science Ink: Tattoos of the Science Obsessed": Talk & Booksigning
at Harvard Museum of Natural History, 24 Oxford St, Cambridge (Harvard campus)
FREE

Since there was the free tattoo promo last week, let's give some time to the free science tattoo presentation.

Zimmer's book, "Science Ink," compiles hundreds of photos of science-related tattoos then touch upon the science related to the image. I expect there will be slides, and I'm willing to guess someone in the crowd will lift their shirt to reveal a Periodic Table on their back...

There should be free parking in the garage at 52 Oxford Street.

TUES 12/13

6pm
"Troop 1500": Screening & Panel Discussion
at City Year Headquarters, 287 Columbus Ave, Boston (Back Bay)
FREE

Wow, this seems like one of those documentaries that can pull on your heart especially around the holidays.

What separates Troop 1500 from other Girl Scout troops is that all of their mothers are serving time at Hilltop Prison in Gatesville, TX.

One probably doesn't often think about the families of female prisoners, but it's another aspect of crime victims and how the US prison system affects people on the outside.

RSVP requested.

TUES 12/13

9pm
Pirate! Holiday Party
at O'Brien's, 3 Harvard St, Allston
FREE / 21+

Feat: The Poison Oaks, Streight Angular, Goodbyemotel

Music promotion company Pirate! Has put together a rockin' little holiday party, that would be worth paying a cover charge.

Last month I heard The Poison Oaks for the first time, and it's hard not to love this folk-pop project led by singer-fiddler Laura Cortese -- unless you hate melodies, The Beatles, and stuff like that.

When Streight Angular hit the stage, they already look like a party. Then they bust out fun, rambunctious indie-rock to bring the good times (or maybe the good times follows them around).

As a post-punk/dark-wave cherry on top, Goodbyemotel has moved from Melbourne to Brooklyn for about a year to record an album and play some gigs. It's good stuff from what I've heard, and you might be hearing a hip band before your friends do. (Oh, they've already heard of them? Talk about how you hung out with the band.)

I imagine there's even a chance of getting a free beer...

Monday to Wednesday Calendar

2011-12-12T10:17:00.000-05:00

Instead of a full post, let's say that there are cheap options on the calendar through Wednesday.

Since it's Monday, there is good tunes at Charlie's Kitchen and ZuZu (louder & punkier at the former than the latter). There's also a holiday-themed burlesque show.

While not on the calendar, congrats to Geoff Bartley who is celebrating the 20th anniversary of his Monday open-mic night at the Cantab ($5 voluntary donation).

SUN 12/11: Sunday Night Off-Topic Video

2011-12-11T20:39:00.001-05:00

This was a 'Sunday Night Video' in June, and now Time has picked it as one of the Top 10 Creative Videos of the Year.

Although Do Not Forsake Me Oh My Darling's fantastic recreation of the opening sequence to the "The Prisoner".

I think it should be a 'top 3', but The Prisoner was #6...

There's more info available on the making of the video, and a side-by-side comparison video to see how friggin' close they got.

SUN 12/11: Art, Tea Party, Rock, Trivia

2011-12-11T13:00:00.000-05:00

It's late, and it's short. I did have a good time at "Holiday Heck House" last night.

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SUN 12/11

2:30pm to 5:30pm
Dr. Sketchy's Anti-Art School Cabaret: Life Drawing Class
at Great Scott, 1222 Comm Ave, Allston
$8 / 18+

Models: Madge of Honor w/ Johnny Blazes

There are few times when hanging out at a bar is considered creative or artistic beyond napkin origami...

At Dr Sketchy's, drawing and drinking are combined at whatever ratio you desire as the usually wild models put provocative twist on traditional posing.

A couple of tips that I cribbed from the organizer a while ago:

Come on time to get a seat up front. Keep it small so others can crowd in around you. Bring your stuff in a milk crate so you have something to sit on or put your stuff on. (we have lots of seats, but more is helpful) There will be some fancy paper for you to buy if you want.

No one is going to criticize your drawing, so don't worry about your skills. You gotta start some time, and you're not going to find a cheaper life-drawing class... with a bar... and no teacher... You might even win a prize.

Just go, get arty/tipsy, and have fun.

SUN 12/11

4pm to 5:30pm
Annual Boston Tea Party Reenactment
at Old South Meeting House, 310 Washington St, Boston (Downtown Crossing)
$8

You know what's crazy about the Boston Tea Party besides dumping tea in the harbor while dressed up as Native Americans? It happened in December! It was only 238 years ago on the 16th, that a small band of rebels left the debate at Old South Meeting House and punched Great Britain.

You can sit in for the a re-creation of the debate that took place that night to hear Sam Adams, Paul Revere, John Hancock and others discuss the fairness of British rule. see how the the 'original teabaggers' did it. If you go, bring some tea to throw walk over to the harbor.

A genuine Paul Revere bell has been installed, and it will ring outside from 3:30pm to 3:40pm.

SUN 12/11

8pm
Black & White Animal Night Fundraiser
at Radio, 379 Somerville Ave, Somerville (Union Sq)
$7 / 21+

Feat: Sugar Snow (8pm), I Pistol (9pm), Cancer Killing Gemini (10pm), raffle (11pm)

Even if you're not a cat person, the Kitty Connection mission is to rescue "homeless, abandoned, abused or unwanted cats and dogs."

If you're going to rock out tonight, why not listen to some good tunes and save some animals? Bring a few extra bucks for raffles.

Say hello to the videographer. He writes this blog...

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SUN 12/11

8pm to 10pm
The Big Quiz Thing
at Club Oberon, 2 Arrow St, Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
FREE

Do you know a free trivia night where there's a $200 1st-place prize? It's very competitive, but it can be done. The Cheap Thrills Boston team tied for 2nd place in June. I think our team helped to make the night considered to be "The ideal live-trivia audience".

Your average pub trivia is alright, but this is probably the most entertaining trivia game I've played. If you don't win the grand prize in the 3-way finale, your team could go home with some books, DVD's, gift card and/or tickets to "The Donkey Show".

There are audio and video questions. Even a wrong answer has a chance for points if it's funny enough.

There is a bar as well even if it isn't a pub.

SAT 12/10: Night Cheapness

2011-12-10T13:44:00.007-05:00

Hey, I didn't make a post about it (yet), but please consider buying gifts -- if you're going to that stuff -- from independent, local businesses.

Sunday cheapness on the calendar.

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SAT 12/10

7pm
The Americana Snow Ball
at Arts at the Armory Performance Hall, 191 Highland Ave, Somerville (Spring Hill)
$8 / $10 premium entry

Feat: Dirty River String Band, Tall Enough, The Pennies, The Wednesdays

The advance tickets are gone, but there may still be a few available at the door for winter fun (games, photo booth?) and rootsy, folky music.

With the Red Line being too much like a bus on the weekends, there's always the #90 from the Orange Line or the #88 from the Green Line..

You might "win a prize" if you bring some non-perishable food items.

SAT 12/10

8pm
The Shakespeare Project: "What a Rash and Bloody Deed Is This!"
at TheatreLab@855, CFA Bldg, 855 Comm Ave, Boston (BU campus)
FREE

As part of a year-long initiative to examine the nature of violence, scenes/excerpts of "murder, mayhem, war, and cruelty" have been selected out of the many examples in the Bard's catalog.

(In case you're wondering, the title is a line from Hamlet.)

SAT 12/10

8pm to 2am
"Frozen In Time: A ’90s Party"
at Brighton Beer Garden, 386 Market St, Brighton
$5

Feat: The Idle Kind (9pm), The Life Electric (11pm), DJ S'wara

If you're going to have nostalgia for an era, I guess grunge '90s isn't that bad. If you remember when "Nevermind" came out, you might feel old at this thing. Get drunk, listen to the live bands, and pretend Bill Clinton is in the White House.

The do suggest getting dressed in period attire (flannel and jeans would do the trick).

SAT 12/10

9pm
"Holiday Heck House: Sleep Noël More"
at Spontaneous Celebrations, 45 Danforth St, Jamaica Plain
$10

Without knowing more than the humorous hipster-types Union Square Round Table are hosted a holiday haunted house parody of "Sleep No More", the experimental, non-linear version of "Macbeth" where you walked around an old school building in Brookline.

If you thought the holiday season was scary, you might as well laugh about it. After you get there, you will be led into different rooms of multi-media Xmas horrors before a stage show upstairs. (Beer should be available.)

SAT 12/10

9:30pm
Thick Shakes, Lead Stones, No Fun, The Jitters
at PA's Lounge, 345 Somerville Ave, Somerville (Union Sq)
$10 / $8 w/ food donation / 21+

If there is a gig at PA's on this list, then it means there are a lot of good bands to offset the lousy venue. It's going to be a good night of garage and punk with a little bit of psych-rock anchored by the awesome Thick Shakes.

If you bring a canned good or other non-perishable food item, you get in for $2 less. You might already have something like that in your cupboard and it's worth $2 tonight. It's going to the Greater Boston Food Bank.

SAT 12/10

9pm
Mixtape: 1988
at Radio, 379 Somerville Ave, Somerville (Union Sq)
$5 / 21+

Feat: Jaggery, "Pour Somerville Sugar on Me", "Bright Lights, Big Rod", Brendan Burns Instrumental Quartet, Brian King, more

It's been a while since I've noticed one of these Mixtape shows. Past editions have gathered musicians to pay tribute to the years of '67, '78, '84, '93, and '97.

They say you should expect golden oldies from the likes of "Poison, INXS, George Michael, Paula Abdul, GNR, Neneh Cherry, Bon Jovi, U2, Living Colour, The Bangles, Def Leppard, and more".

Some bands are doing sets and others have been recruited for this rock mission like: "Pour Somerville Sugar on Me" and "Bright Lights, Big Rod".

Good times!

SAT 12/10

9:30pm
Dan Blake & Jason Palmer
at Wally's Cafe, 427 Mass Ave, Boston (South End)
FREE / 21+

Every now and then, I feel like reminding people that Wally's has free jazz all the time. Trumpeter Jason Palmer plays at Wally's almost every weekend when he's not on the road. If you're in the mood for modern bebop, it doesn't get much better than this. Maybe you saw Palmer starring in that indie movie "Guy and Madeline on a Park Bench" a couple years ago?

Saxophonist Dan Blake is joining in since they recorded an album together recently which JazzTimes said has a “Mingus meets Monk” quality.

SAT 12/10: Day Cheapness

2011-12-10T10:07:00.002-05:00

More to come...

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SAT 12/10

10am to 5pm
75th Anniversary Community Day
at Institute for Contemporary Art, 100 Northern Ave, Boston (South Boston/Seaport)
FREE

When the new ICA opened, it was a really big deal -- and a really big crowd. It was so crowded that I hung out in the gigantic waiting tent for a couple hot drinks then decided to return later.

I've paid to get in, and I've gone on a couple Thursday nights (when it's always free). I encourage you to check it out anytime, but they have free admission to encourage your visit.

It can't be as crowded as 2006… There are some free performances throughout the day that are associated with the "Dance/Draw" exhibition.

And there is free hot cocoa (while supplies last)...

SAT 12/10

Noon to 9pm
Sailor Jerry Tattoo
at Regeneration Tattoo, 155 Harvard Ave, Allston
FREE

I would definitely call before going at this point (617-782-1313) to see about the situation. As I mentioned a couple days ago, they were taking reservations.

If some people will actually pay for a tattoo, there will certainly be more who will want a free one...

SAT 12/10

1pm
Annual Santa Speedo Run
Starts at Lir Tavern, 903 Boylston St, Boston (Back Bay)
FREE to watch

If I had known it was going to be this warm on race day, I would've registered!

Maybe not, but I would've considered it... All of the 500 runners have raised at least $400 that will go to this year's charity, the Play Ball Foundation.

Of course, hundreds of speedo-ed runners around Boylston and Newbury is a spectator sport. Straight dudes shouldn't feel weird about going, because it seems like more women run each year. (But then you might look pervy?)

There are quite a few bars/restaurants that ring the route.

SAT 12/10

4pm
"The Directors' Project": 10-minute plays
at Jewels 1 Studio, Room 352, CFA Bldg, 855 Comm Ave, Boston (BU campus)
FREE

How bad can a student play be when it's only 10 minutes long? Okay, maybe it will be less bearable when it happens 7, 8, or 9 times -- however I feel that won't be the case.

Friday & Saturday Briefly

2011-12-09T10:05:00.004-05:00

I expect to have a full post. Before it gets any later, I wanted to let you know that Friday and Saturday cheapnes is on the calendar.

If you're going to be in Rhode Island tonight, maybe you'll want to go bowling and bring an unwrapped toy or two?

It's free to get into the Institute for Contemporary Art all day on Saturday to celebrate their 75th anniversary (and 5th anniversary in the current location).

It could be a relatively warm day for tomorrow's Santa Speedo Run.

If you look below, you might have a chance to get a free tattoo on Saturday.

Only one person won the Matt and Kim ticket giveaway, but Matt & Kim are doing a meet-and-greet at the Converse store tomorrow from 1pm to 3pm because of their limited-edition sneaker.

SAT 12/10: Want a Free Sailor Jerry Tattoo?

2011-12-08T23:30:00.002-05:00

Noon to 9pm
Sailor Jerry Tattoo
at Regeneration Tattoo, 155 Harvard Ave, Allston
FREE

RSVP suggested (probably to schedule a time)

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A little birdie-daddy told me about an opportunity for free ink, so I had to pass it on.

Many years ago my skin-art friends schooled me that Sailor Jerry was the original tattoo auteur. (Or tatteur?)

The man is gone, but his art lives on in people's hearts and other body parts. We also have a bunch of photos.

Based on the RSVP email, this is a promotion for the eponymous rum. Does it matter? It's a free tat...

Don't expect to get your whole back covered, but you could walk out with a tiny lady on your arm -- an arm that perhaps only needed to pass a gratuity and lift a shot of rum.

If they do give you a free tattoo and maybe some Sailor Jerry rum, I imagine a tip would be a decent thing to do...

THUR 12/8: Talk, Party, Shakespeare, Music

2011-12-08T11:00:00.001-05:00

I was going to tell you to hit up tonight's first show of Kingsley Flood's 3-Night EP release party at Lizard Lounge, but they're all sold out. Some tix should be available at the door, but that's a risky proposition. Go to their site and listen to the music, because it kicks ass. (I contend that I wrote their first CD review.)

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THUR 12/8

6pm
David Axelrod, “2012 and Beyond: An Electoral Outlook”: Lecture
at Room 121, McGuinn Hall, 140 Comm Ave, Chestnut Hill (BC campus)
FREE

I think Axelrod is working on President Obama's reelection campaign, so it's doubtful you'll hear extra-juicy behind-closed-doors anecdotes.

You will probably hear an analysis of Obama's performance to-date and the campaign issues from a guy who has probably said something similar to the president.

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THUR 12/8

6pm to 9pm
BSSC Mistletoe Mixer
at Sweet Caroline's, 1260 Boylston St, Boston (near Fenway Park)
$10 / $5 BSSC members

There are similar organizations out there, but BSSC was the first recreational sports league I heard about -- and probably still attracts the most players.

This is a chance to hang out with relatively sociable people who like to play sports, and there's one free drink with admission along with some light apps.

A little bit of every BSSC membership was tucked away for charity, and tonight they're giving checks to Comfort Zone Camp, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and Boys & Girls Club.

THUR 12/8

7pm
"The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition": Discussion
at Harvard Book Store, 1256 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
FREE

Feat: Steven Pinker, Lois Lowry, Wendy Kaminer, Steve Kleinedler

A new American Heritage Executive Editor Steve Kleinedler is going to talk dictionary with a Harvard psychology professor, an author, and a civil libertarian.

I assume they'll touch on the hubbub over the definition of "Anchor Baby".

Personally, I liked the AH list of "100 Words Every High School Graduate Should Know".

THUR 12/8 (thru SAT 12/10)

Various Times
The Shakespeare Project: "What a Rash and Bloody Deed Is This!"
at TheatreLab@855, CFA Bldg, 855 Comm Ave, Boston (BU campus)
FREE

Thursday -- 7:30pm
Friday -- 4pm, 8pm
Saturday -- 8pm

As part of a year-long initiative to examine the nature of violence, scenes/excerpts of "murder, mayhem, war, and cruelty" have been selected out of the many examples in the Bard's catalogue.

In the same building, the annual 10-minute play festival begins at 7:30pm tonight (with non-matching curtain times tomorrow and Saturday).

(In case you're wondering, the title is a line from Hamlet.)

THUR 12/8

8pm
Nat Baldwin, Chris North Dream Quartet, Carver Audain, Preggy Peggy Huangmei Opera
at Aviary Gallery, 48 South St, Jamaica Plain
$2 minimum donation suggested

You might be familiar with the group where Nat Baldwin plays bass, Dirty Projectors, but he's a rather awesome solo performer with his big stand-up bass -- and it's not exactly mellow stuff.

In a nutshell, the lineup is a mix of folky and experimental. What would you expect for a gig in a JP art gallery?

Give what you can to support the performers; I saw a range of $2 to $20...

THUR 12/8

9pm
Movers and Shakers, Frank Morey Band, Banditas
at Radio, 379 Somerville Ave, Somerville (Union Sq)
$7 / 21+

Gosh, Union Square is a good little corner of the world. I hope the Green Line Extension doesn't ruin the vibe when it arrives in 15 or 20 years...

While we wait, Radio is one of the latest reasons to get oneself over there because almost every night has a compelling lineup.

For years, I've admired how Movers & Shakers rip it up while adding bits of Americana texture here and there. Frank Morey can usually be found at the Plough & Stars on Sundays, but that bluesy, raspy growl and his band are on the bill with country-tinged, modern/retro Stonesy Banditas.

The Matt & Kim Winner is...

2011-12-07T13:00:00.002-05:00

If you were looking for Wednesday/Thursday cheapness, see below.

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I have read all the entries for the Matt & Kim ticket giveaway for the House of Blues concert on FRI 12/9.

It was difficult to choose, because I really liked every answer in one way or another.

A lot of them made me laugh or go "Aww..." (Julia!), but the winning criteria is completely subject to my whims.

There were two entries that had a time-travel aspect to it -- yet one of them also included a zombie element -- so the winner is:

James F. who said...

I would streak with Matt at my own funeral because I love his music and I've always wanted to be a naked zombie. Imagine the look on my mom's face!

Thanks to everyone who played! There may still be tickets for sale. I might just go, because they give a fun performance from what I've see and read.

You can always show up at the Converse Store (Back Bay) on Saturday 12/10 between 1pm and 3pm to see Matt and Kim. Their customized sneaker will be for sale (couldn't find an image of the shoe).

And I can't stop you from streaking through the store...

Wednesday Calendar

2011-12-07T10:33:00.004-05:00

Without further delay, I'm just going to post a calendar for today's activities.

I like the variety: a political film program... the "Wicked" author talking about his last Oz book... a couple theatrical anthologies at BU thru Saturday... rock/blues in Boston/Allston... americana in Cambridge... experimental music in the South End...

Thursday cheapness is also there:
An senior Obama advisor is in town... BSSC is having a mixer... Smart people are talking about the dictionary... There's an array of music options including the first night of Kingsley Flood's 3-night EP release party (the only night that's not sold out yet).

~~REMEMBER: You have to respond before noon today to enter the Matt and Kim/MuteMath ticket giveaway for Friday's House of Blues show.~~

Tix Giveaway for 12/9: Matt & Kim at House of Blues

2011-12-06T12:00:00.010-05:00

UPDATE: The contest is closed. Congrats to James F.!

There's nothing wrong with MuteMath, but I would be way more interested in seeing Matt and Kim in concert. I don't always want to dance to the same tunes as other people, but the Brooklyn duo are pretty friggin' awesome.

And a lucky reader will win 2 tickets to the House of Blues show on Friday 12/9. (Tix still appear to be available for $24 or $35.)

I like to give everyone an equal chance to win, so here's the giveaway contest:

Remember that video for "Lessons Learned" where Matt and Kim streak through Times Square (see below)?

If you could streak with either Matt or Kim, who would you choose and where would you do it?

There are no wrong answers, but I will choose my favorite by noon tomorrow (12/7) and announce it shortly afterwards.

Two ways to enter:

Sign in and leave a comment with one of the listed ID's (Google, OpenID, LiveJournal, WordPress, TypePad, AIM) so I can contact you --or-- email me (add the punctuation).

ALSO:

A good source tells me a Matt & Kim sneaker will be available at the Converse Store (Back Bay) on Friday.

I called the store, and they said the band will be there on Saturday 12/10 some time between 1pm and 3pm.

I doubt they're actually hanging out and signing stuff for 2 solid hours, but it wouldn't hurt to check it out.

Matt and Kim - "Lessons Learned" from FVMMO Films on Vimeo

TUES 12/6: Talk, Dance, Music

2011-12-06T10:08:00.002-05:00

Check back a little later, because there will be a ticket giveaway for the Matt and Kim / MuteMath concert at House of Blues on Friday 12/9.

I'm thinking of a good question to ask instead of simply giving it to the first response.

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TUES 12/6

6pm to 7:30pm
WorldBoston Great Decisions Series: "The Caucasus"
at Boston Room, Boston Public Library, 700 Boylston St, Boston (Copley Sq)
FREE

Feat: Monica Toft, Ph.D.

This area is so far out of the general public's awareness that Borat's country is on the other side of the Caspian Sea...

Professor Toft has written books with titles such as "The Geography of Ethnic Conflict" and "The Fog of Peace: Strategic and Military Planning under Uncertainty". It sounds like she will have some interesting things to say about the region ringed around by Russia, Turkey, and Iran.

TUES 12/6

6pm to 7:30pm
Barnet Schecter, "George Washington's America: A Biography Through His Maps": Author Talk
at Abbey Room, Boston Public Library, 700 Boylston St, Boston (Copley Sq)
FREE

Yeah, two lectures at the same location -- but talking about George Washington and maps is so different than international relations. The book includes many map images, so maybe there will be a few slides involved in the presentation...

TUES 12/6

7pm & 9pm
"Aurora Borealis 10: A Festival of Light and Dance"
at BU Dance Theater, 915 Comm Ave, Boston (enter on Buick St)
FREE

The strange light in the sky rarely reaches our latitude. For 10 years, the theatre and dance groups at BU have coordinated choreography and lighting for a special program. I'm not a dance critic, but I watched a clip from a couple years ago, and it looks entertaining.

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TUES 12/6

Ryan Fitzsimmons & Friends (7:30pm), Hayley Jane & The Primates (10pm)
at Toad, 1912 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Porter Sq)
FREE

Show up early for fantastic folkiness led by singer-songwriter Ryan Fitzsimmons. Or show up late for fantastic folk-rockiness by Hayley Jane & The Primates. Or stay all night; it's free almost every night of the year.

TUES 12/6

Air Traffic Controller (11pm), The Honors (10pm), Rob / Minky Starshine (9:15pm)
at TT the Bear's Place, 10 Brookline St, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$6

If I had made a Top-10 song list for last year, Air Traffic Controller's "The One" would have definitely been on it. Maybe not on top, but this is a superb example of his acoustic-flavored powerpop. I'm also a fan of The Honors' ridiculously catchy indie-rock. I assume the dude from Minky Starshine will open with a solo set.

12/5: Monday Briefly

2011-12-05T10:11:00.000-05:00

It was 78 years today when the American people made it official that the alcohol Prohibition experiment was a failure.

I didn't put 'em on the calendar, but Bukowski's Tavern (Inman Sq) is having a "Fuck Prohibition!" party will be giving prizes to the best prohibition-era attire starting around 7:30pm.

And the Milky Way/Bella Luna has Stump Trivia at 8pm, and Batch 19 will be "buying beers" for folks (25-cent wings from 7 to 9 pm).

For my fellow X-lovers, John Doe is doing an electric gig at Brighton Music Hall ($15) tonight.

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Bach, Mahler, and Brahms are on deck tonight at New England Conservatory's "First Monday" monthly series (8pm / Free).

There's a free art/dance party at Middlesex Lounge (art 8pm / dance 10pm) with a bunch of decorated skulls -- and there should be a "Narragansett tasting"...

BU theatre and dance groups at present their annual free "Aurora Borealis" show tonight (8:30pm - open dress rehearsal) and tomorrow (7pm & 9pm) at the campus Dance Theater. (Watch a clip.)

Kathryn Calder has been singing and playing keyboards with The New Pornographers since the "Twin Cinema" album. She's at Church with her slightly gentler solo stuff (8:30pm / $10 / 21+).

There are few Mondays at Charlies Kitchen that I wouldn't enjoy. For Repeal Day, there are going to be a bunch of rootsy/twangy acts -- and probably some free 'Gansett (9:30pm / $5 / 21+).

At Great Scott, Gauntlet Hair is a Chicago/Colorado duo with loads of reverb and crazy drumming to fill the room. The delightful Dirty Dishes and Birthdays open (9:30pm / $10 / 18+).

Things are rarely what they seem at Jacques Cabaret, it is true that "Perestroika", the Monday night drag show is celebrating its 5th anniversary (10:30pm / $7 / 21+)...

SUN 12/4: Rock, Bubbe, Opera, Rock

2011-12-04T11:29:00.000-05:00

Hey, I thought I put up the events on the calendar earlier. Oops.

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SUN 12/4

1pm
The Stereo State, Banquets, Great Lakes, Yale MA
at O'Brien's, 3 Harvard St, Allston
$7 / 18+

Is it bad that I might want to go to brunch on a Sunday instead of a punk-rock matinee? If you're young, young at heart and/or more hardcore than me, then you'll hear good selection of loud 'n fast. Am digging the pop-punk of The Stereo State and Yale MA. Maybe it's because they're from NJ, I hear a little emo

SUN 12/4

2pm
Bubbe & Avrom Honig, "Feed Me Bubbe: Recipes and Wisdom from America's Favorite Online Grandmother"
at Brookline Booksmith, 279 Harvard St, Brookline (Coolidge Corner)
FREE

These two could be a Saturday Night Live sketch, but the grandma is pretty adorable -- and the over-enunciating grandson doesn't interject nearly enough to make it a full-on comedy. It seems like Avrom really enjoys spending time with his Bubbe, and it's not where the guy is pushing her to do it.

I think there could be a big crowd for this one...

SUN 12/4

7:30pm
Winter Opera Scenes
at CFA Concert Hall, 855 Comm Ave, Boston (BU campus)
FREE

The thing about watching "opera scenes" is that you don't have to sit through a whole opera. I assume you'll get the highlights from a mix of well-known works and the less-familiar. They say "staged scenes", so it should a bit more than students singing on a bare stage.

SUN 12/4

9pm
Bunny's A Swine, Shepherdess, LadyBust
at Radio, 379 Somerville Ave, Somerville (Union Sq)
$5 / 21+

If you're into fuzzy, catchy rock that make bob your head or do a silly dance, then Bunny's A Swine has potential to be your new favorite band.
messy indie-pop of Bunny's A Swine

I think it's been a while since I've mentioned that Shepherdess frontwoman Hilken Mancini has been making cool music for years in various bands since Fuzzy and other cool projects like Punk Rock Aerobics and Girls Rock Camp. Shepherdess is more sweet, alt-rock with a twist.

It's also a CD release party for indie-pop Bunny's A Swine, and why not have a puppet show at a party? That may be LadyBust...

SAT 12/3: Night Cheapness

2011-12-03T13:15:00.003-05:00

I couldn't help myself -- I like both flyers. Even though they're so different in content, I like the complementary colors...

Sunday cheapness on the calendar.

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SAT 12/3

7pm
Calling All Angels 2: A Benefit for Friends of Emilia
at Radio, 379 Somerville Ave, Somerville (Union Sq)
$10 / 21+

Feat: Jessica Sun Lee, John Powhida, Full Body Anchor, Black Thai, Age Rings, Mary Bichner, Aloud

Doors open 6pm

It's a good thing that there's so many good bands playing to focus on, because the cause is really friggin' emotional. This is the second annual concert in memory of a little girl who never left the hospital and to support the BIDMC Newborn Intensive Care.

Think of it as a celebration. Since Emilia lived her life, the couple are the parents of a little boy.

There are some really good bands. Aloud is great stuff. John Powhida has been charming me for years since The Rudds ruled my Boston. I'm quickly becoming a fan of Mary Bichner's Box Five. Age Rings rocks. Full Body Anchor rocks harder. Black Thai rocks even harder.

Of course, there will be raffles too.

SAT 12/3

8pm
"Love's Fire"
at 808 Gallery, 808 Comm Ave, Boston (BU campus)
$5

Back in 1997, seven playwrights created one-acts based on Shakespeare sonnets. They included Eric Bogosian, Tony Kushner, Wendy Wasserstein, Marsha Norman, John Guare, Ntozake Shange, and William Finn.

The inspiration is classic material, although the yielded tales have had mixed reviews over the years. It could be worth a shot for something different...

SAT 12/3

8pm
Winter Soul Revue
at Church, 69 Kilmarnock St, Boston (Fenway)
$10 / 21+

Midnight -- Miss Fairchild
11pm -- Jordan Valentine & The Sunday Saints
10pm -- Jenny Dee & The Delinquents
9pm -- Nicky Egan
8pm -- The Bold Type

Yes, there is a lot of soul music to shake a tail-feather. I love the big band with horns and powerhouse vocals by Jenny Dee and Jordan Valentine. Miss Fairchild definitely has a funky party vibe. Nicky Egan and The Bold Type are smaller combos, and I like the extra helping of rock 'n roll with The Bold Type.

SAT 12/3

Yoni Gordon (Midnight), The Diamond Mines (11pm), Hands & Knees (10pm), The Fagettes (9pm)
at Precinct, 70 Union Sq, Somerville (Union Sq)
$7

When you don't need a theme or a benefit or a concept, this is the show. Just bunches of punky-poppy goodness, one after the other.

SAT 12/3

9pm
"Negroes on Ice"
at FutureBar, 58 Ross Way, Quincy (near Quincy Center)
$8 / 21+

Feat: Prince Paul, DJ P Forreal, Talent Harris, Breeze Brewin', Soce the Elemental Wizard

I watched some of the Ustream offerings, and it wasn't that promising, but Prince Paul has done some really cool projects over his career like producing Big Daddy Kane, 3rd Bass, and De La Soul. I know he did some stuff with "Aqua Teen Hunger Force", and Handsome Boy Modeling School was hip-hop with a sense of humor.

I tried to find a real review of this theatrical-musical-comedy performance that had a run last year, and I couldn't. Still I think the beats will fantastic, and the show will probably be pretty funny led by Prince Paul and his son P Forreal.

Isn't "Negroes on Ice" twisted enough to pique your interest? It looks very walkable from the T...

SAT 12/3: Daytime Cheapness

2011-12-03T10:02:00.002-05:00

Yeah, it's December... You still have plenty of time to get ready for Christma-Hanu-Kwaanza. Have some fun!

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SAT 12/3

11am to 3pm
"A Rich History: A Celebration of Chocolate"
at Old South Meeting House, 310 Washington St, Boston (Downtown Crossing)
FREE

The Old South Meeting Houseis one those historic places around town, and it would be nice to simply look around anytime -- but I don't want to pay $6 every time.

Stop by if you're in the neighborhood, and you might get a hot chocolate since there's going to be "chocolate demonstrations, sampling of chocolate drink, and short talks."

Discounted tickets to the upcoming Boston Tea Party Reenactment should be available.

SAT 12/3

Noon
Guinness World-Record Caroling Attempt
at Christian Science Center Plaza, about 275 Mass Ave, Boston (Back Bay)
FREE

It doesn't matter if the record is broken at this sing-in. It didn't happen last year. It may not happen this year, but Keith Lockhart will eventually get it done.

There is a warm, fuzzy feeling when thousands of people sing together for 15 minutes even if it's cheesy holiday tunes. Although I'd like to think the maestro would shy away from the clunkers.

"The record attempt will start at 12:30pm sharp, so get there earlier."

Do you know why it doesn't really matter? Because you can get a free hot chocolate.

SAT 12/3

Noon to 6pm
ShareFair
at Pozen Center, about 621 Huntington Ave, Boston (MassArt, enter on Evans Way)
FREE -- Bring Something to Swap

Don't feel guilty about having fun when others may be running around. This is a place to learn stuff! There may be time to make gifts for people! (Okay, maybe a person or two people...) Some presentations have been set, and others will be a surprise.

The schedule:

Bookbinding, Knitting -- Noon, 1pm, 2pm
DIY Speakers, Felt Soap* -- 12:30pm, 1:30pm, 3:30pm, 4:30pm, 5:30pm
Bookbinding, Native American Earrings -- 3pm, 4pm, 5pm
Karate -- 2:30pm

Bike repair and Lino-cut will be ongoing workshops throughout the day (or until supplies run out!)

They ask that you bring something to swap. There is some more ideas on the Facebook page, but they offer suggestions like: : "From mixtapes to clothes, art supplies to shoelaces, old sunglasses to a busted radio."

* That's not the felt soap people coming to the ShareFair, but I didn't know what that was. (I assume someone else may say, "WTF is felt soap?")

Saturday Calendar

2011-12-02T18:00:00.002-05:00

I have ambitions about getting out weekend cheapness later and maybe some kind of holiday shopping post. Let's start by saying Saturday cheapness is on the calendar. (And I wanted to test the automatic tweets when something is posted here.)

If you can be at the Christian Science Plaza around noon, you might become a world-record holder...

Maybe you feel like learning stuff at MassArt...

There are some good music choices, but I'm considering heading to Quincy for Prince Paul's production, "Negroes on Ice"...

FRI 12/2: Chocolate, Art, Film, Theatre, Music

2011-12-02T12:19:00.004-05:00

Things you should know about Saturday -- before it's Saturday:

You could be part of a world-record by joining Keith Lockhart & the Tanglewood Festival Chorus in an attempt to be the largest carol-singing crowd in front of the Christian Science Center Plaza (Noon).

There is a concert for the release of "Under the Influence" at the Berklee Performance Center (8:15pm).

Student artists went into the studio with producer Paul Kolderie to record tracks originally done by Pixies, Radiohead, Mission of Burma, REM, Gang of Four, RHCP, etc -- and Kolderie did some of the originals. It's $8 for advance tickets, and Mission of Burma's Roger Miller will also perform.

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FRI 12/2 (and SAT 12/3)

11am to 3pm
"A Rich History: A Celebration of Chocolate"
at Old South Meeting House, 310 Washington St, Boston (Downtown Crossing)
FREE

Why drink hot chocolate? Because the colonials dumped the tea in the harbor.

If you're near the Old South Meeting House today or tomorrow, there will be "chocolate demonstrations, sampling of chocolate drink, and short talks."

You can walk around the hall for free -- as well as visit the shop...

Discounted tickets to the upcoming Boston Tea Party Reenactment should be available.

FRI 12/2

6pm to 9pm
John Slepian, "Update: New Work": Opening Reception
at Axiom Gallery, ground floor, about 150 Green St, Jamaica Plain (Green Street T)
FREE

I like the concepts behind this exhibit where Slepian tweaks well-known "Modernist" pieces with current technology to make it "Really Modernist Now"...?

A couple are even interactive based on Microsoft Xbox Kinect...

Exhibition on view from FRI 12/2 to SAT 1/28.

FRI 12/2

7pm to 10pm
Phidias Gold: "Distillation Show": Reception
at The Distillery Gallery, 516 E Second St, Boston (Southie)
FREE

As far as receptions that will offer free booze, it's a slam dunk at The Distillery -- even if it's cheap beer.

Local apparel company Phidias Gold has invited almost 20 artists to decorate rum bottles. (I haven't been to the gallery in a while, but the walls have been graffiti'ed in the past for more stimulation...)

FRI 12/2

7pm
"Marathon Boy": Screening
at Bldg 4, Room 231, 182 Memorial Drive (Rear), Cambridge (MIT campus)
FREE

This is a heartbreaking documentary about a young Indian boy with an amazing aptitude for long-distance running. Of course, he is exploited left and right... Then things get worse...

From when I saw this Eventbrite page earlier this week, they have suggested registration to know about a location change. If you want to go, you might want to do it (although it hasn't changed yet. (Or just show up and be alone...)

FRI 12/2 (and SAT 12/3)

8pm
"Love's Fire"
at 808 Gallery, 808 Comm Ave, Boston (BU campus)
$5

Back in 1997, seven playwrights created one-acts based on Shakespeare sonnets. They included Eric Bogosian, Tony Kushner, Wendy Wasserstein, Marsha Norman, John Guare, Ntozake Shange, and William Finn.

The inspiration is classic material, although the yielded tales have had mixed reviews over the years. It could be worth a shot for something different...

FRI 12/2

8:30pm
Marc Sultan, The Sinbusters, Squall
at Magic Room Gallery, Sound Museum, 155 N. Beacon Street, Brighton
$10 / 21+

I know Mark Sultan as half of The King Khan & BBQ Show, and he's still churning out kickass garage-rock. Some local garage/punk should balance any smell of poutine in the air.

FRI 12/2

9pm
Township, OldJack, Muck & the Mires
at Radio, 379 Somerville Ave, Somerville (Union Sq)
$10 / 21+

Holy crap, this is all-killer no-filler rock. There's a reason why this is double the usual cover at Radio -- this is a bill that could be in a much bigger room. From Rumble-winning classic hardness of Township to the soulful rock of OldJack to Muck & the Mires who were crowned the best garage-rock band in the country a few years ago -- it's rock party.

If I wasn't battling a cold, I'd be here tonight.

FRI 12/2

9pm
Moe Pope & Quills, Tan Vampires, Grey Sky Appeal
at Church, 69 Kilmarnock St, Boston (Fenway)
$10 / 21+

It's an interesting bill with hiphoppers Moe Pope & Quills and Grey Sky Appeal combined with indie-poppers Tan Vampires. In the current environment, I don't think people really need to listen to the same genre all night long. Good job, Tallboy Industries.

FRI 12/2

Blue Bloods (Midnight), Dead Friends (11pm), By the Throat (10pm), Taxi Driver (9pm)
at PA's Lounge, 345 Somerville Ave, Somerville (Union Sq)
$10 / 21+

On the other hand, there's nothing wrong with wall-to-wall Boston punk...

THUR 12/1: Art, Holiday, Talk, Music

2011-12-01T10:19:00.002-05:00

It's a night for rock biographies as acclaimed music critic Greil Marcus reads from his book on The Doors at Harvard Book Store and NPR's Tim Riley reads from his John Lennon hardcover at Porter Square Books -- both at 7pm.

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MON 12/1

All Day until Midnight
Medicine Wheel
at Cyclorama, Boston Center for the Arts, 539 Tremont St, Boston (South End)
FREE

You can see the post below about the 20th annual artistic expression on "World AIDS Day".

MON 12/1

5:30pm to 8pm
Tree Lighting Ceremony
at Boston Common, about 150 Tremont St, Boston
FREE

Feat: Joey McIntyre, Siobhan Magnus, Radio City Rockettes members, Rockapella, Boston Ballet members, Boston Children's Choir, Grace Kelly

Yep, the tree lighting/TV show is tonight. When I arrived late one year, I was still bored before the fireworks at the end. It's surprising so many people show up. On the other thing, I don't have nostalgia for this event.

Show up about 7:50pm for the fireworks.

MON 12/1

5:30pm to 8pm
1-Year Renovation Celebration
at Brighton Public Library, 40 Academy Hill Rd, Brighton
Free

Feat: Al Vega Trio

About a year ago, the Brighton branch reopened after a major (and green) renovation. There will be refreshments, raffles, and probably a lot of holiday music from the amazing Al Vega with a guest vocalist..

MON 12/1

6pm
"The Challenge of Growing Inequality": Panel Conversation
at JFK Jr Forum, Littauer Bldg, 79 JFK St, Cambridge (Harvard Kennedy School)
FREE

Feat: Kathy Edin, Edward Glaeser, Lawrence F. Katz, David Ellwood

If the Occupy movement has done anything, I have to believe that at the very least they have inspired more conversations about inequality in society.

Economics and Public Policy professors will discuss tonight -- and likely provide good talking points for you when at the dinner table/bar/demonstration/etc.

MON 12/1

6:30pm
"MGH at 200: Commemorating & Interpreting Medical Innovations": Lecture
at Old South Meeting House, 310 Washington St, Boston (Downtown Crossing)
FREE

Can you believe Massachusetts General Hospital has been operating for 200 years? There' are a lot of historical achievements to cover in tonight's lecture as well as 2 noontime sessions in following weeks.

MON 12/1

8pm
"Traffic Jam": BITAHR Benefit Concert
at O'Brien's, 3 Harvard St, Allston
$10 advance / $15 night of show

Feat: Magen Tracy & the Missed Connections (9:50pm), Christie Prince Band (8:50pm), Leagues (8pm)

It looks like you can still get advance tickets to a benefit gig that starts with a mystery band that I've only ever found one mathy/proggy song online. Afterwards, you should expect to hear some female vocalists leading their bands with melody and grrl power.

All proceeds benefit the Boston Initiative to Advance Human Rights that focuses on protecting women and children from sex trafficking/prostitution. (I hope people that agree with forced sex work don't read my blog.)

MON 12/1

8pm to 1am
Pretty Things' 3rd Birthday Party
at Precinct, 70 Union Sq, Somerville (Union Sq)
FREE

Feat: Viva Viva, No Way Jose, DJ John Funke

Not only do Pretty Things make many tasty beers, they have some of the loveliest labels out there. They are also a small group of local folks who currently use a facility in Westport.

You're going to hear some killer rock and blues while getting a chance to drink some great beer including a couple batches of their special reproductions of early 20th cent. formulae.

The beer won't be free, but I'm guessing you can wangle a few more samples...

THUR 12/1: Medicine Wheel

2011-12-01T08:09:00.003-05:00

Whoops, this was a major omission from the calendar...

There are some free things happening tonight, and you may want to check out some tunes at O'Brien's to benefit a local human rights organization. The advance tickets may still be available at a CTB-approved $10.

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THUR 12/1

All Day until Midnight
Medicine Wheel
at Cyclorama, Boston Center for the Arts, 539 Tremont St, Boston (South End)
FREE

As you may know, today is "World AIDS Day".

The Medicine Wheel is annual installation in remembrance of those who've lived and died with AIDS, and it centers around 36 shrine-like pedestals arranged in a circle with different designs and various items left by visitors over the years.

I've been there once before, and it's a heavy experience. It's dimly lit, and most people are respectfully quiet, and there are periodic performances (on the hour). One can reflect in a quiet, safe, and beautiful place; it's a quite a special experience.

Every year, it changes slightly with a different theme. For the 20th year, it's "Water".

Note: Anyone is free to "leave an offering (personal object, letter, picture, jewelry, poem...) for the healing and remembrance of all affected by HIV and AIDS."

WED 11/30: Fashion & Music

2011-11-30T11:43:00.002-05:00

Gah! Here are some cheap ideas for today. I suspect Thursday cheapness will be on the calendar later.

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WED 11/30

6pm to 7pm
Zandra Rhodes: Artist Talk
at Tower Auditorium, 621 Huntington Ave, Boston (MassArt campus)
FREE

Fashion fans: Bold, British designer Zandra Rhodes is speaking tonight. I assume she'll talk about the fashion sceene in the '70s, dressing celebrities like Princess Di, and creating costumes for operas.

WED 11/30

6:30pm to 8:30pm
Bora Yoon: Cybersounds Electronic Music Series
at Atlantic Wharf, 290 Congress Street, Boston (near South Station)
FREE

File this under "Could be kinda cool".

There have been a few other concerts in the "Cybersounds" Series, but the Boston premiere of "( (( PHONATION )) )" may be a standout, because Yoon has been covered in publications like the NY Times and Wall Street Journal and played impressive gigs around the world.

It's a multi-media piece with live visuals along with the music.

WED 11/30

9pm
Cruzamente
at Milky Way Lounge/Bella Luna, 284 Amory St, Jamaica Plain (The Brewery Complex)
FREE

This is an all-female band who combine the various sounds of Cape Verde into an smooth, buoyant blend that you'd expect from islands with Portuguese/African/Caribbean influences.

WED 11/30

9pm
Sarah Rabdau & Self-Employed Assassins, Pearl & the Beard, Box Five
at Radio, 379 Somerville Ave, Somerville (Union Sq)
$7 / 21+

For a while, the Self-Employed Assassins were a rather thin corps consisting of the drummer. He's been joined by a bassist and keyboardist that still leaves plenty of room for the beautiful voice of Sarah Rabdau to get out front and dazzle.

It's a fantastic night to hear several original twists of indie-pop besides Sarah & S.E.A. The delightful Pearl and the Beard from Brooklyn bring their skewed acoustic goodness as they kick off a leg of East Coast gigs. Mary Bichner of Box Five has synesthesia, which must be quite an experience because I feel a tingle when listening to her amazing arrangements.

TUES 11/29: Music, Talk, Film

2011-11-29T11:52:00.002-05:00

The holiday tree lightings are not my sort of thing, but it's happening in Copley Square tonight (5pm). There will be music, dance, and refreshments... The Boston Common Tree Lighting happens on Wednesday.

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TUES 11/29

6pm
"CQ Presents" Kick Off Party
at TT the Bear's Place, 10 Brookline St, Cambridge (Central Sq)
FREE / 21+

Feat: Autochrome, DJ Mike the Considerate

If you've looked at the TT's calendar on a regular basis and have been impressed with the number of really good bands, this party may be a goodwill gesture to the patrons and a welcome to people who haven't hung out before.

After 17 years, booker Randi Millman has moved on; and CQ Presents will be booking bands as it does for Great Scott and O'Brien's. They're "having a party with food, drinks, a performance by Autochrome and DJ sets by DJ Mike the Considerate."

I'm guessing Autochrome will play closer to 8pm than 6pm.

TUES 11/29

6pm to 7:30pm
Life in the Universe, Part 4: "Finding Intelligence"
at MIT Museum, 265 Mass Ave, Cambridge (near Central Sq)
FREE

Feat: Richard Wrangham, Paul Horowitz

Even if you missed the first 3 lectures, you'll probably still appreciate the last session in this series where MIT and Harvard profs discuss our place in the universe.

TUES 11/29

6pm
Gregory Maguire, "Out of Oz": Author Talk
at Rabb Lecture Hall, Boston Public Library, 700 Boylston St, Boston (Copley Sq)
FREE

The author of "Wicked" has finished his literary journey through Oz with his latest volume.

He's also appearing in Harvard Square on WED 12/7.

TUES 11/29

7pm
"Hope and Change? A Conversation on the Obama Presidency": Panel Discussion
at Conference Auditorium, 2nd Fl, Sherman Union, 775 Comm Ave, Boston (BU campus)
FREE w/ RSVP

Feat: Thomas Fiedler, Robert Zelnick, Anthony Priestas, Tabitha Watson, Dean Kenneth Elmore

BU faculty and students will discuss how the "hopey-changey" President has done so far. From what I've read, there may be an emphasis on the perception of young voters, but that makes sense.

If you don't want to go, it will be live-streamed.

TUES 11/29

7pm
Michael Holley, "War Room: The Legacy of Bill Belichick and the Art of Building the Perfect Team": Reading
at Brookline Booksmith, 279 Harvard St, Brookline (Coolidge Corner)
FREE

Sports reporter Michael Holley was given a lot of access to Belichick for the writing of this book that apparently is heavy on football and light on personal topics.

TUES 11/29

7pm, 9pm
"The Way of the Warrior-Bunny": Screening
at Somerville Theatre Microcinema, 55 Davis Square, Somerville
$6

Feat: "The Psynging Psychologist", Unreliable Narrator Podcast Group sketch, Tony Moschetto, Ryan Douglass

There is a lot of peculiar things happening in Somerville. For instance, this will be a sci-fi comedy about an intergalactic warrior-bunny. "WotWB" will be available for viewing on the web, all 'episodes' will be shown tonight along with a variety of live performances from comedians & folks that appear to be involved with the web series.

If the image of a man-bunny isn't enough, maybe this 'theme song' clip may give you an idea of what to expect.

TUES 11/29

8pm to Midnight
Nat Mugavero, Leo Genovese, Dan Blake, Garth Stevenson
at The Beehive, 541 Tremont St, Boston (South End)
FREE

The Beehive has jazz on many nights. These guys are top-notch players who are getting their free-jazz on tonight.

TUES 11/29

8:30pm
Ladies Coverband Night: "Country Sparrows"
at Precinct, 70 Union Sq, Somerville (Union Sq)
$7

Feat:
Bitch Trifecta as Dolly Parton
Jean Sullivan as Lucinda Williams
Anna Rae as Emmylou Harris
Anya Rose as Peggy Lee
Hannah Cranton as Loretta Lynn

There was a similar ladies coverband night at Precinct earlier in the year where the performers paid tribute to female rock performers, and tonight it's country night.

Of the 5 artists being covered, there is a lot songs to choose from. My understanding is that Emmylou, Peggy Lee, and Loretta Lynn will be preformed together in the round. Bitch Trifecta is going to have 8 people on stage to do Dolly Parton. Not many people look like Dolly, so I doubt there will be Halloween-style costuming.

TUES 11/29

10:30pm
Red Heroine, Coyote Kolb
at Plough & Stars, 912 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$5-ish / 21+

Whether they're called Red Heroine or Mr Sister, the band makes fantastic music around a beautiful voice. On the last night of their Wednesday residency, they're joined by Coyote Kolb. It's my belief that these are two of the Boston-area bands that would (and should) be loved by people far and wide.

MON 11/28: Bin Laden, Food, Rock

2011-11-28T11:04:00.001-05:00

Am posting an abbreviated list before it gets too late. There are a couple more Monday options on the calendar.

I didn't find out much about MassArt's exhibit "Questionable Crumpets", but there's an opening reception tonight from 6pm to 8pm at the Doran Gallery [PDF map]. Intriguing elements: 1) a reference to M.F.K. Fisher and 2) refreshments provided by the 'Food & Art' class.

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MON 11/28

6pm to 7:30pm
Nicholas Schmidle, "The Hunt for bin Laden": Lecture
at Room 008, Devlin Hall, 140 Comm Ave, Chestnut Hill (BC campus)
FREE

Schmidle wrote a detailed article about the mission that killed Osama Bin Laden. There were some people that doubted all of the information, and he has tried to defend himself.

This is a chance to hear it from him and maybe ask that killer question that makes him crack.

MON 11/28

7pm to 9pm
Bill Yosses, "Lip Smackin' Science: Crystals, Emulsions, Foams, and Pink Vanilla Cupcakes": Lecture
at Science Center, Hall C, 1 Oxford St, Cambridge (Harvard campus)
FREE

Sure, it could be cool to hear the White House's executive pastry chef talk about food science. (You can watch his 2010 appearance on >YouTube and elsewhere.)

This is also a reminder to the foolhardy that tickets for Ferran Adria's lecture on SUN 12/4 will become available tomorrow at the >Harvard Box Office. Good luck...

MON 11/28

10pm
>Thick Shakes, >Radio Control, >Squall
at >Charlie's Kitchen, 10 Eliot St, Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
$5 / 21+

If I were to go to a rock show tonight, I'd head to Charlie's. I'd probably get there early, enjoy a few beverages, and hope that I could pick a few songs on the jukebox and hear them before the bands go on.

If the Thick Shakes are playing a gig, it's worthwhile to go just for their contemporary take on old-school garage-rock that may lay waste across your ears, but you'll admiringly bounce around the room.

From what I hear, you won't be disappointed by Radio Control and Squall.

SUN 11/27: Records, Folk, Rock

2011-11-27T11:11:00.001-05:00

Again, just a good day to go outside. Maybe hang out in solidarity with the Occupy Boston before it gets too cold...

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SUN 11/27

10am to 3pm
Boston-Somerville Vinylpalooza
at Boston-Somerville Holiday Inn, 30 Washington St. Somerville (near Sullivan Sq)
$3 / FREE for ages 12 and under

When you have to pay $3 to buy stuff, it doesn't feel like a 'cheap thrill'. On the other hand, there was a source that suggested you get 4 raffle tickets with admission.

Usually these things are out in Woburn, so vinyl lovers can browse and buy.

It's not a far walk from Sullivan Square T, but there will supposedly be a free shuttle.

SUN 11/27

8pm
Suzie Brown, Jenee Halstead, Eric Schwartz
at The Burren, 247 Elm St, Somerville (Davis Sq)
Donation Suggested / 21+

Pass by the Irish seisun players in the front room, and head for the back for three singer-songwriter types. Both Suzie and Jenee have some country lilt; Jenee leans a little bluegrassy too. Check out Eric Schwartz if you like a good dose of humor & wit. Like other Sundays, festivities are hosted by the witty Tom Bianchi.

SUN 11/27

The New Highway Hymnal (11pm), The Fagettes (10pm), The Dirty Virgins (9pm)
at Church, 69 Kilmarnock St, Boston (Fenway)
$8 / 21+

There's going to be a fun mix of modern/retro pysch-rock, ragged indie-rock, and loud 'n messy punk rock. I was hoping to spend a bit more time with these bands, but I really dig how The Dirty Virgins rip it up with abandon.

SAT 11/26: Shakespeare, Holiday, Tubas, Rock, Hip-Hop

2011-11-26T09:38:00.002-05:00

Wow, what a beautiful day! I'm not sure what I will do, but walking around a favorite part of town doesn't cost anything. (Until one stops for refreshments.)

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SAT 11/26

Noon
"The Merry Wives of Windsor": Open Rehearsal
at Downstairs at The Garage, 38 JFK St, Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
FREE w/ RSVP

I went to the open rehearsal for "Othello" last year. It was almost a full house, so attempting to go without an RSVP would mean that (A) you're already in Harvard Square and you see the doors near 7-Eleven at the Garage or (B) you really love to see the inner workings of a Shakespeare production.

I should mention that "The Merry Wives of Windsor" runs from 12/7 to 1/1 at the Davis Square Theatre. If you buy tickets between now and Monday, save 25% by using the name of this animal as the discount code.

[Facebook]

SAT 11/26

Noon to 8pm target="_blank"
City of Lights Parade & Holiday Art Stroll
around Downtown Lowell (PDF map/program)
Mostly Free/Cheap

Parade -- 4:30pm to 6:30pm

The Lowell Winterfest is a fun afternoon (in February) with human dog-sled races, marshmallows on a stick, free skating at Tsongas Arena, and so on. That's why I find it appealing to wander around downtown Lowell with some holiday kitsch here and there. Don't get your hopes up for a ride on the Lowell tour trolley, but you can call 978-970-5000.

It may be cold enough to vote in the hot chocolate competition (see PDF map) at 10 stores for 25 cents per cup. I like how a van has been decorated and converted into a mobile art store.

The parade at 4:30pm is basically a town Xmas parade, and a holiday choral concert in a church courtyard follows at 6:30pm.

There is free parking at 2 nearby garages (PDF map).

SAT 11/26

2pm
Annual Boston TubaChristmas
between Faneuil Hall & Quincy Market, 1 Faneuil Hall Market Pl, Boston
FREE

My assumption that a hundred tubas/euphoniums/sousaphones playing holiday music would be amusing and absurd. It's actually just as musical and pleasing as any holiday concert.

There is still a holly-jolly vibe, but the lower timbre rounded the edges on some of the songs.

It's not as silly as I had hoped, but that is a lot of tubas in one place.
I hesitate to recommend going out of your way, but I stayed much longer than expected as I passed by.

SAT 11/26

9pm
Eldridge Rodriguez, Stereo Soul Future
at Radio, 379 Somerville Ave, Somerville (Union Sq)
$5 / 21+

How many bands do you want for $5? If it's only two good ones, then it's preferable over 2 good ones and sitting through a couple clam-baggers.

If you're familiar with the fantastic Beatings, then you should dig Eldridge Rodriguez's (the head Beating) excellent solo work. The guitars are dialed down a bit and it's more Eldridge, but the songs still have some roughness and are really damn good.

I'm not sure if I've ever listened to Stereo Soul Future before although they've been around (on and off) for a while. It's doubtful that their well-crafted pop/rock will ever be called 'soul' in the future, but there are many fine melodies.

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SAT 11/26

9pm
Benefit For MC Exposition
at Church, 69 Kilmarnock St, Boston (Fenway)
$10 / 21+

Feat: Akrobatik, Virtuoso, J The S, Toussaint, The Un, Tag, Oak Lonetree, The Yukonn MC, D-Tension, more

Before they moved to California, Audible Mainframe was a much-beloved Boston hip-hop full band. Recently frontman -- and young guy -- MC Exposition was diagnosed with cancer.

He's moved back to Boston, and many of the raptastic & funkiest in town are performing at this benefit. There will be raffles, of course, so no harm in trying to win something and being generous at the same time.