I fixed the dates of my posts...

Thanks... I'm so glad someone told me that my last few post titles had the wrong dates... Am losing my mind, but Ma is leaving in 12 days... (I'm sorta getting tired of hearing novelas in the background while I type at night.)

I think a big list is forthcoming tonight

~r

WED 4/30: Ice Cream, Beer, Lesbian songs, Punk Rock

Ahhh... Four of my favorite things...

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WED 4/30

5pm to 10pm
Baskin-Robbins 31 Cent Scoop Night
at Participating Locations
$0.31 per scoop

Got room for more ice cream? I know you do! Each person can get up to 10 scoops.

The idea is to get you in to donate to the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation. 'Nuff said.

WED 4/30

6pm to 10:30pm
New England Real Ale Exhibition
at VFW George Dilboy Post, 371 Summer St, Somerville (Davis Sq)
$10

I might go on Saturday when the admission is only $5, but this could be worth your while considering you probably don't have to tip...

This year, we are making a special effort to ensure a pleasant, pub-like atmosphere for all sessions.

As in 2007, we will offer about 80 firkins of Real Ale. Half will be U.K. beers from England, Scotland, and Wales; half will be American beers from New England. All the beers are cask-conditioned, served by gravity or hand-pump. As always, there will be new casks tapped every day, with special British beers reserved for Saturday. We encourage you to attend the "off-peak" sessions on Wednesday and Saturday.

This year we trying an experiment this year with a single Saturday afternoon / early evening session.

Cash Bar Prices
Imperial Pint (20 oz) $5.00
Half Pint (10 oz) $2.50
Quarter Pint (5 oz) $1.50

(Also SAT 5/3 -- Noon to 7pm -- $5)

WED 4/30

7:30pm to 9pm
"Still Ain't Satisfied!": Songs from Boston's Golden Age of Lesbian & Feminist Music
at Lifelong Learning Institute, 43 Hawes Street, Brookline (Wheelock College)
FREE

Who knew there was a "golden age" of lesbian & feminist music?

Performance and discussion with Marcia Deihl.

From "Ode to a Gym Teacher" to "I Enjoy Being a Gull," from goddess worship to socialist feminist uprisings, from the New Harmony Sisterhood's genesis to the Michigan Fesival, Marcia revisits the 70s local women's music scene via her favorite songs. Bring your own memories, artifacts, and gossip, and be ready to sing along. Not just a nostalgia trip, but a soul-filling energy boost for these hard days.

WED 4/30

9:30pm
The Phenomenauts, The A.K.A.s, Maldroid, Bad Ash
at Middle East - Upstairs, 472 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$10 / 18+

I really think this is the best rock/punk/rockabilly show that I haven't seen much talk about. Heck The Phenomenauts are awesome AND they're from the future... Bad Ash (and every other band) rocks!

TUES Nite, YouTube: Howard Zinn

If all goes as planned, I'll post some cheap stuff for the next few days before the sun comes up. Until then...

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I've seen Howard Zinn speak a few times, and he's an American treasure. I love how he speaks plainly with the average person as his audience. I wish politicians would do communicate plainly and directly to their constituents more often...

The Zinn-ster has a new version of his "A People’s History of the United States" out that's illustrated by Mike Konopacki called "A People's History of American Empire". Whether you feel like buying the book or not, here's 8 animated minutes of it (narrated by Viggo Mortenson):

TUES 4/29: Free Ben & Jerry's, Indie Shorts, Folk

TUES 4/29

Store Hours
Ben and Jerry's Free Cone Day!
at all participating Ben & Jerry's stores
Free

This is like Dunks "Free Iced Coffee Day" to me. It's one per customer. I'll try to go to as many locations as possible -- the lines are longer than usual, but so... No need to be a pig like me; have a free scoop, and it will improve your Tuesday by at least 50%. Participating stores appear to include (and why wouldn't they?): Harvard Sq, Newbury St, Prudential Center, Park Plaza, Natick, Salem, Western MA, and all Cape Cod shops.

Of course, there are new flavors to try: Coconut Seven Layer Bar, "Imagine Whirled Peace" (caramel & sweet cream ice creams w/ fudge peace signs & toffee cookies), Cheesecake Brownie, and Cake Batter.

TUES 4/29

7pm
Best Of Boston 48 Hour Film Project
at Kendall Square Cinema, 370 Binney St, Cambridge
$9.75

Believe it or not, but tickets are still available for the closing film at IFF Boston -- Werner Herzog's spectacular new documentary "Encounters at the End of the World", about the scientist inhabitants of Ross Island, Antarctica.

Other than that... another good, fun indie option is a chance to see the cream of this year's 48 Hour Film Project. From writing to editing, all of the shorts are created in 48 hours.

TUES 4/29

Ryan Fitzsimmons, Tom Bianchi, Danielle Miraglia (8pm), Brendan Hogan & Friends (10pm)
at Toad, 1912 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Porter Sq)
FREE

Tonight's 8pm set is described as "in the round", but I assume it'll be more of a semi-circle where they take turns playing songs and joining each other here and there. A couple will probably join Brendan Hogan for the later show. This is a plethora of singer-songwriter folk to pay attention to -- or to provide soundtrack for a few beers.

My friends at Going.com were hosting a free Pat McGee Band show tonight at Bill’s Bar. There's nothing wrong with Pat, but I've had a difficult time taking him seriously after I learned the Irish slang meaning of "gee".

MON 4/28: Rock, Art, Funk, & Film

Okay, well... Condo-hunting is more draining for me than I was willing to admit. I'll be fine.

Here's some stuff for today...

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MON 4/28

Film School (10:45pm), The Douglas Fir (9:50pm), Broken River Prophet (9pm)
at TT the Bear's Place, 10 Brookline St, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$8

Film School and The Douglas Fir most definitely kick post-wave rock butt. The Douglas Fir especially perform so rarely these days, so it's a great excuse to drag yourself out. If you want to see a good music blog, check out bradley's almanac. He apparently put this show together.

MON 4/28

4pm to 7pm
Art Cards
at Redbones -- Downstairs, 55 Chester St, Somerville (Davis Sq)
$5 per 9 Cards

This is becoming an annual (or something close to it) event. You draw/doodle/create masterpieces on the page of 9 cards that are then laminated and cut. Trade your objets d'art with others or take them home. (They'll be worth tens of some currency when you're gone.)

Rob Logan, who created the murals at 'Underbones', organizes this and will probably be there at each session to get you started and give encouragement. No previous talent necessary!

Proceeds benefit Redbones' Art in Somerville Fund, a partnership of Redbones and the Somerville Arts Council.

If you don't mind getting drunk in front of kids, this will be lots of fun. (Try to watch the language though...) If you buy an Art Card, your entree is 1/2 price.

MON 4/28

7pm to 10pm
Iyeoka & her Black and Blues Funk Tribe
at Clery's Bar, 331 Columbus Ave, Boston (South End)
$1 to $15 Suggested donations (for charity) / 21+

Slam poet Iyeoka is also the singer of her funk/soul band. It's her birthday today, and she's celebrating with a fundraiser for The Amenawon Foundation that works to improve the livelihoods of rural Nigerians.

MON 4/28

Have I mentioned the Independent Film Festival of Boston?

FREE Panels @ IFF Boston

You don't have to be a filmmaker -- yet -- to enjoy these panels. I think the avid movie fan would dig these too... Just show up. Yes, it's free.

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SAT 4/26

11:30am
CDIABU Showcase
at Somerville Theatre, 55 Davis Square, Somerville

The Center for Digital Imaging Arts at Boston University is at the forefront of these filmmaking technologies, offering extensive, practical, hands-on, career-oriented education and training. Join us for a screening of short films by CDIABU's best and brightest followed by a Q&A with the filmmakers.

Noon
Collaborative Screenwriting Panel
at Somerville Theatre, 55 Davis Square, Somerville

A discussion with screenwriters and other industry professionals on the benefits of collaboration featuring Amy Fox (Heights) and Will Conroy (Transsiberian).

2:30pm
Breaking Into the Boston Film Industry
at The Burren, 247 Elm St, Somerville (Davis Sq)

Local film professionals from different aspects discuss the ins and outs of making a living in the Boston film industry.

SUN 4/27

Noon
Distribution 2.0
at The Burren, 247 Elm St, Somerville (Davis Sq)

A discussion with some of the companies on the cutting edge of film distribution featuring representatives of Spout.com, Current TV, Indiepix, and Ourstage.

2:30pm
Comics to Film/Film to Comics
at The Burren, 247 Elm St, Somerville (Davis Sq)

A presentation by Greg Pak, writer/director of the film Robot Stories and writer of the hit comics The X-Men and World War Hulk.

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I was going to put together a half-assed post about my picks for IFF Boston, but bradley's almanac and Bostonist already did something informative.

Close your eyes and pick something! Then open your eyes when the movie starts...

~r

Sneak Peek: FRI 4/25 to SUN 4/27

Howdy, friends. The full list will hopefully come soon...

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FRI 4/25

9pm
The Union Square Round Table
at PA's Lounge,
345 Somerville Ave, Somerville (Union Sq)
$8 -- 21+ / $11 -- 18+

Comedy, music, "secrets and lies". (Tonight's theme.)

FRI 4/25

9pm
Sub Rosa, feat. Rose Polenzani
at Lizard
Lounge/Cambridge Common, 1667 Mass Ave, Cambridge (between Harvard
Sq & Porter Sq)
$10 / 21+

Excellent folk/roots with a concept performance.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

SAT 4/26

9am
Boston Shines 365
at Locations Throughout the City
Free

Help clean up the city for a few hours -- paint, plant flowers, sweep,
rake and pick up trash... See a partial list of locations and just show up.

SAT 4/26

9am to Noon
Annual Charles River Cleanup
along Charles River from Boston to Needham
FREE

Another chance to make Boston better. There are several locations where you can show up and help.

Please meet promptly at 9:00, wear durable, weather-appropriate clothing
that can get dirty, and bring drinking water. Volunteers will be
provided with supplies and instructions ,and are also invited to attend
a post-cleanup thank you picnic.

SAT 4/26

Noon to 6pm
North Cambridge All
Arts Open Studios
around North Cambridge
FREE

Walk around. See art. Discuss (w/ artist, if you feel like it). Repeat.

SAT 4/26

8pm
Selections from Duke Ellington's Sacred Concert
at Mainstage Tent, O'Neill Plaza, 140 Comm Ave, Chestnut Hill (BC campus)
FREE

Part of JazzBoston Jazz Week. Duke Ellington was like the King Midas of
jazz; everything he wrote or played turned to gold. BC's big band bOp!
and gospel choir Voices of Imani perform selections from Duke's Sacred
(but not stiff) Concert.

(I assume O'Neill Plaza is in front of O'Neill Library.)

SAT 4/26

9:30-13:30
Nomad-I & Royal Sound, Mighty Mystic, Maverik, D!Arryval, Woodson
at Bill’s Bar, 5.5 Lansdowne St, Boston
18+, $10

A reggae/hip-hop/R&B birthday party for Medford toaster Nomad-I.

SAT 4/26 to SUN 5/4

Various Times
Cambridge
Science Festival
at Various Places
Mostly FREE

It's not just for nerds anymore! For the weekend some of the cheap
stuff includes:

4/26:

* "Environmental Health Science: A Closer Look at Environmental Exposures"
at MIT Museum (10am to 5pm)
* "Science Carnival" at Cambridge City Hall (Noon to 4pm)

4/27:

* "Charles River Watershed Association Eco Boat Trip" from Herter Park,
Brighton (1pm & 2pm)

SAT 4/26 and SUN 4/27

1pm to 5pm
Open House -- Opening Weekend
at Boston
Sailing Center, Lewis Wharf, Boston (North End)
FREE

Go for a sail and a tour of the facilities. You don't have to sign up
for anything. Note this is on the harbor, not on the Charles River.

SAT 4/26

Noon and 2 p.m
Pinocchio
at Seully Hall, 4th Fl, 8 The Fenway, Boston (Boston Conservatory)
FREE

Got kids? An operatic performance (with dialogue) of the story.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

SUN 4/27

9am to Noon
Run of the Charles Canoe & Kayak Race
from Great Plain Ave, Needham to Herter Park, Brighton
FREE

Stand along any part of the river to watch canoes and kayaks paddle quickly, or go to the end there's going to be a festival with fun and food available that will go on well after noon.

Sun 4/27

Scout Niblett, Nudity, The Black Hollies
at Middle East - Upstairs, 472 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$9 / 18+

Not for everyone, but pretty intense quietish music. Listen to Scout and see what you think.

THUR 4/24: Stuff To Do

Am pretty sure I can get a Sneak Peek & IFF Boston (this is Bostonist's take) post out later. Time is crunching harder now that my softball league has started up...

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A couple things I didn't mention last week:

THUR 4/24

9:30pm
Trever Keith, Say Vinyl, Suburban Sky
at Middle East - Upstairs, 472 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$15 / 18+

Are there any Face to Face fans out there? Trever Keith's solo album truly sounds like a return to form of the best Face to Face material. You can stream the whole thing on his website, but I have access to an mp3 of the opening song:

Trever Keith -- "Cross Your Heart & Hope To Die"

Not $10, but this should be a really good rock show.

THUR 4/24

10pm
Charlie Chesterman
at Plough & Stars, 912 Mass. Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$3

Maybe free, maybe not. Good old-time rockabilly style.

Cancelled...

Stuff that was on the weekly list:

THUR 4/24

10pm
Dennis Brennan
at Alchemist Lounge, 435 S Huntington Ave, Jamaica Plain
FREE

THUR 4/24

10pm
John Powhida Int'l Airport, Mike Gent's Rapid Shave
at Toad, 1912 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Porter Sq)
FREE

THUR 4/24

9pm
Fury!: New England Metal Fest Pre-Party w/ Thy Will Be Done, more
at Great Scott, 1222 Commonwealth Avenue, Allston
$5 / 18+

THUR 4/24

9pm
Harris, Aloud, The Brendan Boogie Band, Jen Murdza
at O'Brien's, 3 Harvard St, Allston
$7 / 21+

THUR 4/24 to SUN 4/27

Various Times (usually 7pm)
"Six Views, Same Shape": New Plays, Different Ways
at Boston Playwrights Theatre, 949 Comm Ave, Boston (BU campus)
FREE

THUR 4/24 thru TUES 4/29

Various Times
Independent Film Festival of Boston
at Somerville Theatre, 55 Davis Square, Somerville
at Coolidge Corner Theatre, 290 Harvard St, Brookline
at Brattle Theatre, 40 Brattle St, Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
Mostly $9

Go see something!

For THUR 4/24, these are my best bets: "Medicine Melancholy", "We are Wizards" (music doc), "Mister Lonely", "My Effortless Brilliance", "Joy Division" (music doc), "Eleven Minutes" (doc), and "Meadowlark" (doc). All at the Somerville Theatre, except "We are Wizards" at Coolidge Corner.

WED 4/23: Chelsea, Green Fun, Indie Films, Bar Art

Okay, so I didn't list much on the Weekly List for today, but here are some options...

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WED 4/23

1pm
Chelsea Handler, "Are You There Vodka? It's Me, Chelsea", Booksigning
at Borders Books, 10 School St, Boston (Downtown Crossing)
FREE

I'm not much of a fan, but this is my favorite book title I've seen in a long time.

WED 4/23

5pm to 7pm
EcoExpo 2008: MIT's Sustainability Showcase
at Stata Center, 32 Vassar St, Cambridge (MIT campus)
FREE

"Green technology" is the (hopefully very near) future of American innovation. If you're wondering why someone isn't doing something particular to help the environment, it might be in development at MIT. As part of their Earth Day celebrations, take a look at the sustainability research and initiatives that students are working on. There's free food too...

WED 4/23

7:30
IFF Boston Opening Night: "Transiberian"
at Somerville Theatre, 55 Davis Square, Somerville
$10

I doubt there will be few -- if any -- rush tickets available for tonight's screening, but I have to believe it'll be showing in theatres around town soon. Train murder-mysteries are ripe for taut suspense, and this one stars Ben Kingsley, Woody Harrelson, and Emily Mortimer. Director Brad Anderson ("Next Stop Wonderland") and co-writer Will Conroy were already scheduled to appear, but Sir Ben Kingsley is also in the house tonight.

There are so many interesting, worthwhile films to see over the next 6 days; I'm going to try a separate post, but check out the site to find something you like.

WED 4/23

10pm to Midnight
The New Factographers, "Union Square (The Chirping Sidewalk)"
at Toast Lounge, 70 Union Square, Somerville
FREE

There's a new art collective in town, and they cover the streets of Somerville -- at least for now. The first project by The New Factographers is a multi-media offering called "Union Square (The Chirping Sidewalk)". After the Red Sox & Celtics hopefully do what they do best (W.I.N.), the multiple TVs will turn from sports-delivery units to art-transmitters. The sights of Union Square are interspersed other images while recording of various local bands provide the soundtrack. Toast Lounge will be a great place to hang out tonight with someone with little need for conversation.

Stay tuned for other subjects at other locations around Boston.

TUES 4/22: Earth Day, Music

I didn't see any "Earth Day" events (taking place today) that really excited me. There are a few Earth Day ideas listed in one thread at Going's Green Group, and other green topics that you might find interesting. I'm pretty sure you can read it without being a member, but it doesn't hurt to register...

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Today's stuff from the Weekly List below:

TUES 4/22

9pm
American Music Club, Barn Burning, Ad Frank & The Fast Easy Women
at Harpers Ferry, 158 Brighton Avenue, Allston
$12 / 18+

TUES 4/22

7:30pm
"Down in Mississippi, and Up to No Good"
at David Friend Recital Hall, 921 Boylston St, Boston (Back Bay)
FREE

TUES 4/22

9pm to 1am
Bootie Boston #2
at Middlesex Lounge, 315 Mass Ave, Cambridge (between Central Sq & MIT)
FREE / 21+

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I like to break up the text with photos; I really wanted to use this one, but the above photo seemed to have a more direct message...

Let's save the planet for our sake.

~r

MON 4/21: Free scoop at Cold Stone Creamery

In honor of Patriots Day (the Marathon holiday), Cold Stone Creamery is going to give out free "Patriots Day Creation" -- cake batter ice cream, brownies, fudge, and red/white/blue sprinkles on top. Limit one per person.

Available at all locations in MA & NH (and there are quite a few near the parade route)... "While supplies last", so they won't give you a substitute if the run out of cake batter ice cream.

Today's other stuff from the Weekly List below:

7pm
Winedown w/ Taza Chocolate tasting
at Harvard Book Store, 1256 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
FREE


8pm
Patriots Day Blowout w/ Foreign Islands
at Great Scott, 1222 Commonwealth Avenue, Allston
$5 / 18+


And Extra "Edu-ma-cation":

5pm
Rep. Edward J. Markey, "Reclaiming U.S. Leadership on Global Warming": Lecture
at Yenching Auditorium, 2 Divinity Ave, Cambridge (Harvard campus)
FREE

Contests: IFF Boston Passes & Admin Asst Pampering

Winning stuff is fun, and you might as well try it...

Win 2 All-Access Passes to IFF Boston
Enter by: Today, 4/20 Noon, TUES 4/22

IFF Boston is running from 4/23 to 4/29. I'd probably like to see every doumentary, feature, and short film; but I don't want to pay for the all-access pass. Fill out an entry form to win 2 all-access passes, which includes the parties as well. There are a couple discalimers, but you can read them on the contest page (and they're reasonable).

Late Update: There's another chance to win *one film pass* to IFF Boston. Enter by noon on TUES 4/22, and a winner will be randomly chosen at 5pm. (Thanks, Norm!)


Nominate someone (or yourself) for "Ultimate Rockstar Assistant" Pamper Package
Enter by: noon on MON 4/21

Wednesday is what used to be known as Secretaries Day. A "rock star" admin assistant you know could win a killer weekend (4/25 to 4/27) that includes car service by the benefactors Rockstar Limo, 2 nights at The Langham Hotel (& 2 tix to the Chocolate Bar), dinner for two at Morton's and Sage, and a day of pampering at SalonCapri.

You should read the details, but basically write 50 to 100 words about why the person is "a true, everyday rock
star" and email it by noon. (You can even nominate yourself...) The winner will be announced on April 23.

The above photo will not be your "Rockstar Limo" experience. (Sorry...)

Cheap Thrills: 4/19 to 4/25

In an attempt to be mildly relevant, I send this without worrying about it as much and adding a couple things slightly over $10. That's what you get over the Internet for free...

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SAT 4/19
* Record Store Day
* Cheap Thrills a Go-Go! w/ Babes in Boinkland & Ty Jesso
* J. Cannibal's Feast Of Flesh
* "What Is Change?": Music, Dance, more
* The Aardvark Jazz Orchestra
* Boston Horns w/ Barrence Whitfield, Akashic Record
* Hungrytown, Molly Pinto-Madigan

SUN 4/20
* Someone Still Loves You Boris Yeltsin, Via Audio, The Peasantry
* Earth Day at Franklin Park Zoo w/ Jeff Corwin
* BU 4/20 Film Festival: Dazed and Confused, Half Baked & Fast Times at Ridgemont High
* "The Big Lebowski" & "Kingpin": Free Double Feature
* Neil Hamburger, Anderson Comedy

MON 4/21
* Winedown w/ Taza Chocolate tasting
* 112th Boston Marathon
* Patriots Day Blowout w/ Foreign Islands

TUES 4/22
* American Music Club, Barn Burning, Ad Frank & The Fast Easy Women
* "Down in Mississippi, and Up to No Good"
* Bootie Boston #2

WED 4/23
* Boston Independent Film Festival -- thru TUES 4/29
* Ross Gelbspan, Talk and Q & A Session on Climate Change

THUR 4/24
* Dennis Brennan
* John Powhida Int'l Airport, Mike Gent's Rapid Shave
* Fury!: New England Metal Fest Pre-Party w/, more
* Harris, Aloud, The Brendan Boogie Band, Jen Murdza
* "Six Views, Same Shape": New Plays, Different Ways -- to SUN 4/27

FRI 4/25
* The Union Square Roundtable
* Sub Rosa

SAT 4/26
* Cambridge Science Festival
* North Cambridge All Arts Open Studios
* Free Sailing Open House

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SAT 4/19

All Day
Record Store Day
across the country (Boston: mainly at Newbury Comics)
FREE

I've always loved independent music stores. Better music... Cooler employees... Best chance to find some special... Record Store Day seems like a chance to say, "Hey, we're still here and we offer more than future mp3's. Thank you, friends!" There will be some free stuff, prize drawings, and (with music purchases) goody bags.

Locally, Newbury Comics has performances at every store. Amanda and Brian of Dresden Dolls will be at Harvard Sq from 2pm to 5pm doing artsy/musical stuff while adoring fans freak out...

Other MA stores include: Listen Up Music (Natick), Nert Of New England (Lawrence), Music DNA (Methuen), and Aboveground Records (Martha's Vineyard).

Just try not to forget about independent stores...

SAT 4/19

11am to 5pm
"What Is Change?": Music, Dance, more
at Boston Common, Charles St. and Beacon St
FREE

Music and speechifying to promote change by the people, for the people -- since our representatives don't "specialize" in that sort of thing, if you get my drift...

Hosted by Akrobatik and DJ Nomadik, featuring: Floorlords, Afro DZak, Letia Larok, Invisible Inc, Lyrical, Joy Daniels, Soul Movement, and more.

SAT 4/19

8pm to 10pm
The Aardvark Jazz Orchestra
at Kresge Auditorium, 48 Mass Ave, Cambridge (MIT campus)
FREE

Good jazz for free...

SAT 4/19

Midnight
J. Cannibal's Feast Of Flesh
Feat: "Dawn Of The Dead", Black Cat Burlesque, Devil In The Kitchen
at Coolidge Corner Theatre, 290 Harvard St, Brookline
$10

Midnight movie madness with amazing 'Celtic metal' (killer musicians playing metallized version of Celtic folk) and burlesque. I had a great time at the last Feast of Flesh, and the movie's sound should even better this weekend.

Free gory goodie bags will be handed out to all. Dress up like a zombie, and you might win one of several prizes...

SAT 4/19

10:30pm
Cheap Thrills a Go-Go! w/ Babes in Boinkland & Ty Jesso
at Common Ground, 85 Harvard Ave, Allston
$5 / 21+.

"Sexadelic Sixties Dance Party for the Now Generation"and awesome go-go dancers, Babes in Boinkland. No relation to this Cheap Thrills organization.

SAT 4/19

10pm
Boston Horns w/ Barrence Whitfield, Akashic Record
at Johnny D's, 17 Holland St, Somerville (Davis Sq)
$10

One time I saw the Boston Horns perform without a singer, and it was still very good New Orleans-style Jazz. Add the super-soulful rock 'n roll raver Barrence Whitfield, and it's da shit... da bomb... whatever excellent "da" works for you. Funk-jazz ensemble Akashic Record set the mood.

SAT 4/19

8pm
Hungrytown w/ Molly Pinto-Madigan
at Loring-Greenough House, 12 South St, Jamaica Plain
$10 w/ advance RSVP, $15 door

Hungrytown is a married couple that make some beautiful music. Their folk-oriented sound has a timeless quality where the original songs could have been written a century ago yet one hears the music in the 21st century. Singer/guitarist Molly Pinto-Madigan of Jaded Mandolin opens; she is young but sounds great too.

These concerts take place in a 40-seat room with superb acoustics at the Loring-Greenough House. Any show will sound special.

For reservations, email: notlobmusic@gmail.com
It's cutting it too close, but tell Jeff that "Cheap Thrills Rob" sent you, and he might give you the lower price even if it's not 24 hours in advance...

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

SUN 4/20

9:30pm
Someone Still Loves You Boris Yeltsin, Via Audio, The Peasantry
at Great Scott, 1222 Commonwealth Avenue, Allston
$10 / 18+

S.S.L.Y.B.Y. are awesome. I'm surprised they aren't playing a bigger venue. (And the website doesn't indicate 'sold out' yet...) The indie-pop goodness flows all night with openers Via Audio & The Peasantry.

SUN 4/20

4:20pm to 10:00pm
BU 4/20 Film Festival
Feat: "Dazed and Confused", "Half Baked", "Fast Times at Ridgemont High" (+ snacks)
at George Sherman Union, 775 Comm Ave, Boston (BU campus)
FREE

This may or may not be open to the public, but I bet you'd be alright if you marginally look like a college student -- or look like you could score some weed.

9pm
"The Big Lebowski" & "Kingpin"
at Milky Way Lounge, 403 Centre St, Jamaica Plain
FREE / 21+

I may be going out on a limb -- but these are the two best bowling movies I've ever seen!

The Milky Way is going to pull down the screen, and I think they're showing "The Big Lebowski" first.

Bowling is usually $25/ hour per lane, but tonight it's only $10/hour to keep the bowling excitement at fever pitch!

Robes and other Lebowski costumes are encouraged.

(Dudes... It's 4/20...)

SUN 4/20

11am to 3pm
Earth Day at Franklin Park Zoo w/ Jeff Corwin
at Franklin Park Zoo, 1 Franklin Park Rd , Boston
$11 / $9 if you bring a laptop to recycle

Honestly -- Jeff Corwin could get eaten by a lion, and it wouldn't bother me that much; but I know "Animal Planet" is pretty popular and he'll probably say something interesting at 1pm. Besides the lions, tigers, bears, etc (oh, my!), there will be various Earth Day activities and entertainment.

Computer Recycling USA will be on hand to collect recycled electronic equipment, and you'll get $2 off your ticket by bringing something. There is no fee for laptops, but they do charge for desktops, printers, monitors, TVs, VCRs...

SUN 4/20

9pm
Neil Hamburger, Anderson Comedy
at Middle East - Upstairs, 472 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$10 / 18+

Neil Hamburger *looks* funny... He is like the anti-Seinfeld in that his comedy is intentionally unfunny (to make you laugh or get upset or whatever turns you on). The Anderson Comedy troupe will probably try to be funny.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

MON 4/21

Happy Patriots' Day!

MON 4/21

7pm
Winedown w/ Taza Chocolate tasting
at Harvard Book Store, 1256 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
FREE

I've heard there are people that like wine and chocolate, especially if they don't have to pay. In fact this could be the Harmonic Convergence of book-lovers, wine-lovers, chocolate-lovers that some ancient civilization prophesied...

MON 4/21

9pm until that slow guy finishes
112th Boston Marathon
from Hopkinton to Boston
FREE to watch

Thousands of people will run farther than anyone has really needed to run since the Peloponnesian wars... Still, it's fun to sit by the course eating and drinking on a sunny day while those suckers torture themselves. I hope someone reading this will bust out of the crowd at Copley Square and run past the winner at the finish line. That would be awesome! Maybe illegal, but still awesome.

MON 4/21

8pm
Patriots Day Blowout w/ Foreign Islands
at Great Scott, 1222 Commonwealth Avenue, Allston
$5 / 18+

It's becoming an (4th) annual tradition to have some cool bands play on Patriots Day. At least one cool band will play: Brooklyn dance-punk dudes, Foreign Islands.

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TUES 4/22

Happy Earth Day!

TUES 4/22

9pm
American Music Club, Barn Burning, Ad Frank & The Fast Easy Women
at Harpers Ferry, 158 Brighton Avenue, Allston
$12 / 18+

Yay, American Music Club is still back together. In my youth, these guys were paragons of hipness that dealt in maudlin lyrics and feral stage shows. The lyrics are still maudlin, but they're much less wild. Still better than most bands that charge $12. Ad Frank & The Fast Easy Women, who travail well in a similar vein, are one of the support groups.

I saw that Ad Frank interviewed Mark Eitzel (of AMC) in this week's Phoenix.

TUES 4/22

7:30pm
"Down in Mississippi, and Up to No Good"
at David Friend Recital Hall, 921 Boylston St, Boston (Back Bay)
FREE

Yes, they play and sing Country-Western music at Berklee. Four singers and a full band with fiddle 'n steel guitar will "make hoe-down" or something like that...

TUES 4/22

9pm to 1am
Bootie Boston #2
at Middlesex Lounge, 315 Mass Ave, Cambridge (between Central Sq & MIT)
FREE / 21+

I have a soft spot for mash-ups -- I guess I like hearing more than one song at a time. It's double or triple the fun in one bumping track. Locals dj BC & Lenlow are top guys in the genre (as much as they're top guys in the genre). They used to do a night at The Independent, and now they're at a real dance club-type place. Boston ska-punks Big D and The Kids Table have collaborated on a mash-up CD, so they'll sing and add live horns to the music around midnight.

The first 50 people also get a free Bootie CD. You can probably score some free stickers too.

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WED 4/23 thru TUES 4/29

Various Times
Independent Film Festival of Boston
at Somerville Theatre, 55 Davis Square, Somerville
at Coolidge Corner Theatre, 290 Harvard St, Brookline
at Brattle Theatre, 40 Brattle St, Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
Mostly $9

As I was thinking about the local film festivals, IFF Boston may be your best chance at seeing something cool that's also really independent. The Boston Film Festival often screens movies that are probably going to be released in at least a few theatres. The Boston Underground Film Festival is mainly comprised of weird yet interesting films that push the envelope but don't have much of a chance of success.

IFF Boston seems to have a happy mix of indie-films that may see a wider audience than film-fests and wild stuff. Tonight's opener is "Transiberian", a murder-mystery on a train starring Ben Kingsley, Woody Harrelson, Emily Mortimer and directed by the guy who did "Next Stop Wonderland" (7:30, $10, Somerville Theatre).

If you look at the schedule, there's quite a few interesting documentaries as usual. "Meadowlark" is supposed to be pretty dramatic; there's several good music docs (Joy Division, Public Enemy, Nerdcore Rising), and there is one about Harry Potter fans (We Are Wizards) and the Project Runway Season 1 winner (Eleven Minutes). Some of the features that look good are: Medicine for Melancholy, My Effortless Brilliance, Phoebe in Wonderland, The Cake Eaters, and Stuck.

WED 4/23

6pm to 7pm
Ross Gelbspan, Talk and Q & A Session on Climate Change
at 2nd floor Amphitheater, University Hall, 1815 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Lesley University / Porter Sq)
FREE

I've heard Ross Gelbspan speak, and he's an incredibly devoted journalist that is now focused on Climate Change. Ross knows about almost anything that's going on in the field and stays pretty even-keeled & factual, though he doesn't always cut off long-winded questioners.

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THUR 4/24

10pm
Dennis Brennan
at Alchemist Lounge, 435 S Huntington Ave, Jamaica Plain
FREE

Dennis Brennan is one of the best that Boston has to offer. He plays all over town in various musical situations.

THUR 4/24

10pm
John Powhida Int'l Airport, Mike Gent's Rapid Shave
at Toad, 1912 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Porter Sq)
FREE

This is the last Thursday of John Powhida's month at Toad. Mike Gent of The Figgs & The Gentlemen was supposed to open every Thursday, but he is really going to be there tonight. I imagine there will be more good music tonight than you usually hear at this excellent music bar.

THUR 4/24

9pm
Fury!: New England Metal Fest Pre-Party w/ Thy Will Be Done, more
at Great Scott, 1222 Commonwealth Avenue, Allston
$5 / 18+

I don't list a lot of metal shows, so this is a 'metal music' might with a live band, Thy Will Be Done. Definitely good music to strain your neck to (I mean that in a good way). Ken Susi (guitar/vocals, Unearth) will be guest DJ, and who knows what other metal mayhem will materialize...

THUR 4/24

9pm
Harris, Aloud, The Brendan Boogie Band, Jen Murdza
at O'Brien's, 3 Harvard St, Allston
$7 / 21+

Also the last night of the Harris residency at O'Briens. They are awesome in my opinion, and it's a darn good line up with Aloud, Brendan Boogie Band (ex-Scamper), and Jen Murdza.

THUR 4/24 to SUN 4/27

Various Times (usually 7pm)
"Six Views, Same Shape": New Plays, Different Ways
at Boston Playwrights Theatre, 949 Comm Ave, Boston (BU campus)
FREE

If you don't like one of these brand-spanking-new plays, you didn't pay for it. Sounds like a win-win situation. Am not sure what the 'different ways' means yet, but you can give it a shot...

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FRI 4/25

9pm
The Union Square Roundtable
at PA's Lounge, 345 Somerville Ave, Somerville (Union Sq)
$8 -- 21+ / $11 -- 18+

FRI 4/25

9pm
Sub Rosa, feat. Rose Polenzani
at Lizard Lounge/Cambridge Common, 1667 Mass Ave, Cambridge (between Harvard Sq & Porter Sq)
$10 / 21+

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SAT 4/26 to SUN 5/4

Various Times
Cambridge Science Festival
at Various Places
Mostly FREE

SAT 4/26

Noon to 6pm
North Cambridge All Arts Open Studios
around North Cambridge
FREE

SAT 4/26 and SUN 4/27

1pm to 5pm
Open House -- Opening Weekend
at Boston Sailing Center, Lewis Wharf, Boston (North End)
FREE

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Contests:

I've been sent info about a couple contests for free tix to IFF Boston (enter by 4/20) and a nice package for any admin assistant you might know (enter by 4/21). Maybe I'll post more info at the blog at some point this weekend.

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Links of the Week:

Do something nice for trees and cancel some of those catalogs you get.

An eco-friendly monitor cleaner.

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Quote of the Week:

"For me, punk is the new idea, always the new idea, forever the new idea. That’s why punk can never die. Because as long as there are people, there will be new ideas flying in the face of convention."

-- Ian MacKaye, speaking at Brandeis last week

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th-th-that's all, folks.

~r

Sneak Peek: FRI 4/18 to SUN 4/20

Yep, yep... Even though I'm usually more prepared by this point in the week, I feel good about an early list delivery tomorrow...

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FRI 4/18

10pm
Dave Aaronoff
at Plough & Stars, 912 Mass. Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$5

Dave Aaronoff is great musician, singer, songwriter. One never knows who else might show up, but it will be awesome.

FRI 4/18

9:30pm
Muck and the Mires, Topheavy, The Lights Out, The Crushing Low
at Middle East - Upstairs, 472 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$10 / 18+

Boston garage-rock PLUS!

FRI 4/18

9:30pm
Sarah Borges and the Broken Singles
at Dante's at Firefly BBQ, 350 East Main St. (Rt. 20), Marlborough
$10

Hey, roots-rock/country fans in MetroWest -- this show is for you! I wrote a review of the CD then I got to ask her some questions (who knows how long this BostonNOW link will work). Her music just hits me in the right spot; I encourage people to give it a listen.

FRI 4/18 and SAT 4/19

9:30pm
Spiritual Rez
at Bill's Bar, 5.5 Lansdowne St, Boston (Kenmore Sq)
$10 advance / $12 day of show / 18+

Really good reggae.

With Erin Barra and The One Hitters (Night #1) and The Old Silver Band (#2)

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SAT 4/19

All Day
Record Store Day
across the country (Boston: mainly at Newbury Comics)
FREE

I've always loved independent music stores. Better music... Cooler employees... Best chance to find some special... Record Store Day seems like a chance to say, "Hey, we're still here and we offer more than future mp3's. Thank you, friends!" There will be some free stuff, prize drawings, and (with music purchases) goody bags.

Locally, Newbury Comics has performances at every store. Amanda and Brian of Dresden Dolls will be at Harvard Sq from 2pm to 5pm doing artsy/musical stuff while adoring fans freak out...

Other MA stores include: Listen Up Music (Natick), Nert Of New England (Lawrence), Music DNA (Methuen), and Aboveground Records (Martha's Vineyard).

Just try not to forget about independent stores...

SAT 4/19

11am to 5pm
"What Is Change?": Music, Dance, more
at Boston Common, Charles St. and Beacon St
FREE

Music and speechifying to promote change by the people, for the people -- since our representatives don't "specialize" in that sort of thing, if you get my drift...

Hosted by Akrobatik and DJ Nomadik, featuring: Floorlords, Afro DZak, Letia Larok, Invisible Inc, Lyrical, Joy Daniels, Soul Movement, and more.

SAT 4/19

8pm to 10pm
The Aardvark Jazz Orchestra
at Kresge Auditorium, 48 Mass Ave, Cambridge (MIT campus)
FREE

Jazz for free...

SAT 4/19

Midnight
J. Cannibal's Feast Of Flesh
Feat: "Dawn Of The Dead", Black Cat Burlesque, Devil In The Kitchen
at Coolidge Corner Theatre, 290 Harvard St, Brookline
$10

Midnight movie madness with amazing 'Celtic metal' (killer musicians playing metallized version of Celtic folk) and burlesque. I had a great time at the last Feast of Flesh, and the movie's sound should even better this weekend.

Free gory goodie bags will be handed out to all, Dress up like a zombie, and you might win one of several prizes...

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SUN 4/20

9:30pm
Someone Still Loves You Boris Yeltsin, Via Audio, The Peasantry
at Great Scott, 1222 Commonwealth Avenue, Allston
$10 / 18+

S.S.L.Y.B.Y. are awesome. I'm surprised they aren't playing a bigger venue. (And the website doesn't indicate 'sold out' yet...) The indie-pop goodness flows all night with openers Via Audio & The Peasantry.

SUN 4/20

4:20pm to 10:00pm
BU 4/20 Film Festival
Feat: "Dazed and Confused", "Half Baked", "Fast Times at Ridgemont High" (+ snacks)
at George Sherman Union, 775 Comm Ave, Boston (BU campus)
FREE

-and-

9pm
"The Big Lebowski" & "Kingpin"
at Milky Way Lounge, 403 Centre St, Jamaica Plain
FREE / 21+

Projected on our big screen!
** BOWLING SPECIAL **
Only $10 per hour per lane! $15 off!

Dudes... It's 4/20...

THUR 4/17: Volunteer Expo, News Criticism, Free Burrito(?)

I'm still not sure if Chipotle in Davis Sq is giving away burritos (1 per person) today; someone on some discussion board said there was a sign in the window... So don't go out of the way unless you want a burrito from Anna's.

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THUR 4/17

5:30pm to 7:30pm
Annual Volunteer Expo
at Huntington and Belvidere Arcades, Prudential Center, 800 Boylston St, Boston (Back Bay)
FREE

Feel like volunteering, but don't know who you want to help. Dozens of well-established community groups will be there to talk with you -- and probably give you a brochure...

THUR 4/17

6:30pm to 8pm
Danny Schechter,
"News Dissecting From Boston To A Global Stage: A Multi-media Pioneer Challenges His Profession and Calls for Media Reform": Lecture and Q&A
at Old South Meeting House, 310 Washington St, Boston (Downtown Crossing)
FREE

Danny Schechter has spent his journalistic career trying to actually tell people what's going on. I think the discussion could be quite charged tonight. FYI:

Equal time will be provided for the speakers' remarks and questions from the audience.

The info says there will be a book signing afterwards, but I don't see a "new" book. Maybe you can pick up any of his books?

WED 4/16: Thoreau's Cape Cod -- and more

6pm
"Illustrating Thoreau's Cape Cod: A Photographer's Story": Video Presentation & Lecture
at Harvard Museum of Natural History, 26 Oxford St, Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
FREE

(My awful alliteration actually did hit Bostonist, but this is basically it...

Henry David Thoreau is often considered Concord's curmudgeon, but he also conceded, "Cape Cod's cool..."

Readers love his meditations on life and nature while living the ascetic life at Walden Pond, but Thoreau also traveled around New England and loosened up a bit on the Cape a few times like we all do -- but not as much the Kennedys loosen up. Thoreau loved it down there, and he didn't even sit in horrible traffic that makes it seem so much more awesome when you get there.

Photographer Scot Miller also took three trips to Cape Cod to capture some of the same views that Hank might've soaked up -- and some that he wouldn't -- that accompany the new edition of Thoreau's "Cape Cod". Miller will show a video about his work on the book. George Price, Cape Cod National Seashore Superintendent, will follow with a discussion about current conservation efforts.

See below for some info on today's other cheap fun:

* Elizabeth Butters, Therese Bellino
* The Philosophy Cafe: "Mystical Experience: A Direct Reflection of Reality?"
* Cloud Cult, Ezra Furman and the Harpoons, The Forms

THUR 4/17

The word on the street is that the Chipotle in Davis Sq is giving free burritos (1 per person) tomorrow, but I can't confirm it. They usually do it at new locations... There can be a long line, so I'd buy a burrito at Anna's while I'm waiting for my free one...

"GottaLoveContests": Dirty Derby Prom on SAT 4/26

It's a few bucks over my $10 ceiling, but you can win 2 tix to the Dirty Derby Prom on SAT 4/26 at the Elks Lodge in Cambridge (near Central Sq).

It takes a little work... Not just a random raffle... YOU have to identify -7- Boston Derby Dame gals from their prom photos on this page. Contest details are there, but you have until THUR 4/17 to enter the contest.

You have until SAT 4/19 to buy tickets ($15) in advance; they're not selling any tix at the door.

The Dames always throw a great party...

Here's an extra photo of my favorite Boston Derby Dame, Pussy Venom:

TUES 4/15: Free Donut @ Dunks, Rock, etc

Have you had your free doughnut yet? You may go to Dunkin' Donuts for your (hot) coffee anyway, so you might as well get a donut of your choice as a Tax Day treat. There's other stuff to do tonight, but here's one more...
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TUES 4/15

The Friday Nighters (9pm), Fitless (9:50pm), Dave Crespo (10:40pm), Frit (11:20pm)
at Great Scott, 1222 Comm Ave, Allston
$8 / 18+

Fitless are friends of mine, so I'd normally be there tonight, but I've got a lot of stuff to do before my mom gets to town. They call their stuff 'white-collar punk', and they do some interesting harmonies and rhythms that sound better than their recordings. Get there at 9pm, and hear some 50's/60's covers from The Friday Nighters. Dave Crespo throws down some well-done jammy rock; I've met his keyboardist who's a good guy and player too. I couldn't find much info on Frit except that it's lead by Rob Compa who teaches at the Boston School of Rock. (Remember the Jack Black movie?)

MON 4/14: "Faith Without Fear" / Muslim Film Fest

6:30pm
"Faith Without Fear"
at Room 522, College of Arts & Sciences, 725 Comm Ave, Boston (BU campus)
FREE

Irshad Manji has been examining Islam with a critical eye for several years especially since the release of her book, "The Trouble with Islam Today". Heck, Oprah gave her a "Chutzpah Award"... In this documentary, she travels from the Middle East to Spain to interview Muslims about the current rigidity in Islamic thinking. Raquel Evita Saraswati, from Manji's foundation Project Ijtihad, will be on hand for discussion after the screening.

It's not a bad chance to increase your "Islam IQ", as this is the first night of the Boston Muslim Film Festival that will offer free screenings (mainly at BU) through the rest of April. The theme is "Think-Different Women" to celebrate Muslim women working towards change.

Cheap Thrills: SUN 4/13 to SUN 4/20

Hope your Friday and Saturday rocked! Here's Sunday on... As usual, below is some of the stuff from my weekly email.

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SUN 4/13
* M.O.T.O., Midnight Creeps, The Curses, The Tampoffs, The Throwaways
* Dr. Sketchy's Anti-Art School Cabaret

MON 4/14
* Jeffrey D. Sachs, "Common Wealth: Economics for a Crowded Planet"
* Singer-Songwriter Open Mike
* "Tsotsi": Free Screening

TUES 4/15
* Sorta Free Donut Day
* Greyspoke, Bitches Brew
* Big Nez's Comedy Night

WED 4/16
* Elizabeth Butters, Therese Bellino
* "Mystical Experience: A Direct Reflection of Reality?"
* Cloud Cult, Ezra Furman and the Harpoons, The Forms

THUR 4/17
* The Cello Chix
* "The US Role in International Justice": Discussion
* "After Hours" at Gardner Museum

FRI 4/18
* David Aaronoff
* Muck and the Mires, Topheavy, The Lights Out, The Crushing Low
* Spiritual Rez

SAT 4/19
* J. Cannibal's Feast Of Flesh
* "What Is Change?": Music, Dance, more

SUN 4/20
* Someone Still Loves You Boris Yeltsin, Via Audio, The Peasantry

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SUN 4/13

4pm
M.O.T.O., Midnight Creeps, The Curses, The Tampoffs, The Throwaways
at Midway Cafe, 3496 Washington St, Jamaica Plain
$10 / All Ages

You get barbeque included in the admission! Longtime Chicago garage-punks Masters Of The Obvious are joined four excellent local bands.

SUN 4/13

2:30pm
Dr. Sketchy's Anti-Art School Cabaret Life Drawing Class
at Great Scott, 1222 Comm Ave, Allston
$7 / 18+

Dr. Sketchy's Anti-Art School started out in Brooklyn by a couple artists to get some interesting models (burlesque performers, circus freaks, etc) and have some fun and drinks during the 3-hour session.

So get your sketchbook, drawing pad, mini-easel, stolen office paper, whatever -- and experience the coolest & cheapest life-drawing class around.

"A couple of tips: 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."

There are funny contests with prizes too. "Jess" is the model, and she's looks like a colorful and pleasant subject.

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MON 4/14

5pm
Jeffrey D. Sachs, "Common Wealth: Economics for a Crowded Planet"
at Lecture Hall B, Science Center, 1 Oxford St, Cambridge (Harvard campus)
FREE

(Thanks, Julia!)

MON 4/14

8pm
Singer-Songwriter Open Mike
at Cantab Lounge, 738 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$3 suggested donation

There was another cheap music option, but the music was starting to make me sick. On the other hand, every Monday night at the Cantab is open to anyone, but most pperformers are rather good. Geoff Bartley hosts the evening and is quite the impressive acoustic guitarist who starts off the program. They say Bartley lives in a burger cottage down the street... Listen or bring your musical instrument of choice and put your name in the hat to play 2 songs. Geoff Bartley is a well-respected folkie gets someone (sometime well-known) to do a set around 9:30, and the open mike continues afterwards 'til closing time. This week's featured performer is ship-shape singer-songwriter Dave Crossland.

Funny, but true: If you leave out the hyphen in the Cantab's url, it's a porn site! Oh, I suggest you don't wear a Yankees cap -- unfunny, but true.

MON 4/14

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

This Oscar-winning foreign language film (2006) tells the story about a young man who finds a baby in the back seat of the car he stole.

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TUES 4/15

All Day
Sorta Free Donut
at Dunkin' Donuts locations
FREE w/ purchase of hot coffee

You probably already go to Dunks for the coffee, so they're going to give you a free donut to ease your tax-aying pain.
Buy any sized hot coffee, and get any style donut you want.

TUES 4/15

Greyspoke (10:45pm), Bitches Brew (9pm)
at Church, 69 Kilmarnock St, Boston (Fenway)
$5 / 21+

TUES 4/15

10pm
Big Nezz's Comedy Night
at Middle East Corner, 480 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$5

There's a good chance to find a few laughs with Big Nezz, Shawn Bedgood, Matt McAuthor, Jay Margasa, Shereen, Lamont Price. There's also song from Steve Lanza Jr and rap from Big T-Red Falcon (whoever he might be).

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WED 4/16

10pm
Elizabeth Butters, Therese Bellino
at Plough & Stars, 912 Mass. Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$3

WED 4/16

7:30pm to 9:30pm
The Philosophy Cafe: "Mystical Experience: A Direct Reflection of Reality?"
at Harvard Book Store, 1256 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
FREE

McIntyre & Moore has moved to Porter Sq, but they don't have the room to host Philosophy Cafe anymore. So philosophical discussion will now take place downstairs at the Harvard Book Store. Join the exchange and absorb interesting ideas. Here's a blurb on the topic:

In some religious traditions, the true nature of existence is thought to be revealed in mystical experience. How might we evaluate this claim? Are some experiences indubitable reflections of the reality outside our heads? If so, how do they grasp the world? If not, might there still be non-cognitive reasons to seek out mystical experience?

WED 4/16

9:30pm
Cloud Cult, Ezra Furman and the Harpoons, The Forms
at Middle East - Downstairs, 480 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$10 advance / $12 day of show / 18+

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THUR 4/17

10pm
The Cello Chix
at Squawk Coffeehouse, 1555 Mass Ave, Cambridge (inside Harvard Epworth Church)
$5 suggested donation / All ages

It's slim pickings for cheapness tonight, but The Cello Chix are defifintely worthwhile to see at least once. I'd like to believe they're the only all-female, 2-cellists-n-drummer rock covers band. They sound great, and it's fun to wonder what the next song will be.

THUR 4/17

7pm
"The US Role in International Justice": Discussion
at Democracy Center, 45 Mt. Auburn St, Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
FREE

THUR 4/17

5pm to 9pm
"After Hours"
at Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, 280 The Fenway, Boston
$12 / $5 students / $10 seniors

So close to $10, it had to be shared. The Gardner Museum is already one of the most beautiful places in Boston; it seems a bit cooler to hang out there at night in a social atmosphere. Have a drink or two, a bite to eat, and soak in the culture.

Tonight's theme is "Caught on Paper", so instead of merely strolling throught the rooms, you can take a "poetry tour" of the museum written by poet and a Gardner Artist-in-Residence Ann Lauterbach. There will be poetry readings throughout the galleries as well. I like how they like to add an interactive aspect by encouraging you to pick up a pen/pencil and do a little sketching or poetry-writing. The courtyard band will be a Renaissance-style quartet, Seven Times Salt.

Make sure you see the "Luxury for Export" exhibit! Very cool stuff from a period of Portuguses and Indian cross-cuturalism.

There's a concert of vocal jazz group, Syncopation, in the tapestry room for some extra dollars.

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FRI 4/18

10pm
David Aaronoff
at Plough & Stars, 912 Mass. Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$5

FRI 4/18 and SAT 4/19

9:30pm
Spiritual Rez
at Bill's Bar, 5.5 Lansdowne St, Boston (Kenmore Sq)
$10 advance / $12 day of show / 18+

With Erin Barra and The One Hitters (Night #1) and The Old Silver Band (#2)

FRI 4/18

9:30pm
Muck and the Mires, Topheavy, The Lights Out, The Crushing Low
at Middle East - Upstairs, 472 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$10 / 18+

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SAT 4/19

Midnight
J. Cannibal's Feast Of Flesh
Feat: "Dawn Of The Dead", Black Cat Burlesque, Devil In The Kitchen
at Coolidge Corner Theatre, 290 Harvard St, Brookline
$10

SAT 4/19

11am to 5pm
"What Is Change?": Music, Dance, more
at Boston Common, Charles St. and Beacon St
FREE

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SUN 4/20

9:30pm
Someone Still Loves You Boris Yeltsin, Via Audio, The Peasantry
at Great Scott, 1222 Commonwealth Avenue, Allston
$10 / 18+

This will sell out, if it hasn't already.

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Link of the Week:

This is a study/game that supposedly measures how you react to African/Caucasion men.

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Quote of the Week:

"Act as if what you do makes a difference. It does."

-- William James

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th-th-that's all, folks.

~r

Please Stand By...

A Sunday post should get us up-to-date...