WED 6/30: Fest, Talk, Rock, Dance

Ain't it a beautiful day?

I wish I worked in Kendall Square. If there was a Wednesday to eat lunch with a bit of live music in the background, like the jazzy folk of Margaret Glaspy, today would be rather pleasant.

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WED 6/30 (thru MON 7/5)

Various Times
Harborfest
at Various Locations
Many under $10 or FREE

Yes, Harborfest begins today. Most of the daily events are probably more interesting to visitors than residents, but that doesn't stop anyone from having a little fun with history, etc.

My picks would be the tours of Fort Independence (SAT 7/3 to MON 7/5), watching the USS Constitution turnaround cruise (SUN 7/4), and Chowderfest (MON 7/5).

Many of the activities are $10 or less.

There's always the Boston Pops Fireworks show & rehearsal (SUN 7/4 and SAT 7/3, respectively). For what it's worth, Toby
Keith is the 'big name' joining the Pops this year, and Craig Ferguson hosts again.

"Boston Navy Week" is happening concurrently, so there are a couple more ships near the Constitution to tour, and sailors will be seen around town.

WED 6/30

7pm to 9pm
Rock Shop: "Bloggers Panel"
at Middle East - Downstairs, 480 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
FREE

Feat: Bradley's Almanac, Clicky Clicky Music Blog, Ryan's Smashing Life

These discussions are geared towards local musicians, but anyone interested can show up. Rockers can listen and talk to some of the best bloggers in town. I imagine someone who wants to learn about music blogging could pick up some tips too. (I know you think I should go; maybe I will...)

WED 6/30

7pm
David Rakoff: Reading
at Marran Theater, McKenna Student Center, 47 Oxford St, Cambridge (Lesley Quad campus)
FREE

Whenever an event involves a contributor from "This American Life", I expect you'll hear something stimulating and/or funny. David Rakoff's appearance is in conjunction with Lesley's Creative Writing program, so I assume he'll read some essays and take questions from the crowd.

The info states the "entrance is on Mellen Street."

WED 6/30

Dex Romweber Duo (11pm), Jittery Jack (10pm), The Cobra-Matics (9pm)
at TT the Bear's Place, 10 Brookline St, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$10

A bother-and-sister guitar-drum rock duo might sound familiar, but Dexter Romweber really is playing with his sister and he's making fierce rock since the '80s in the Flat Duo Jets. (Jack White does admit that they were a big influence on him.) The most recent album is a bit mellower, but I'm guessing they'll rip it up in their inimitable neo-rockabilly style.

Jittery Jack is a new rockabilly/country project led by Kevin Patey of the Raging Teens that incudes a bunch of local hotshot players. The Cobra-Matics drive up from Rhode Island to add some good ol'-fashioned rockabilly to the party.

WED 6/30

9:30pm
The Honors, The Daily Pravda, Cooling Towers, Ad Frank (acoustic)
at Great Scott, 1222 Comm Ave, Allston
$8 / 18+

Wow, this is quite a bit of kickass rock in one show. The Honors simply sound awesome. The band is usually playing something catchy, and it's far from pedestrian or derivative; the vocals are strong. At Halloween I recall they did a Smiths tribute set, which is a good analogue as a band who played original, compelling, guitar-based pop. I'm pretty sure The Daily Pravda has made Halloween appearances doing David Bowie, and you can hear it in the slightly glammy post-wave rock. Ad Frank often reminds me of Bowie with his clever songs and stylish delivery, and the rare acoustic gig should be a treat.

WED 6/30

10pm
Bodega Girls present "Cool Ranch"
at Middlesex Lounge, 315 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
FREE / 21+

Feat: The Fire and Reason

What was once known as a "Lo-Fi Hedonistic Dance Party" has been abbreviated to "Cool Ranch". While they do perform live, a couple of the Bodega Girls usually DJ on the last Wednesday of the month, while inviting someone else to do a live set for the crowd to keep dancing or take a break.

They might keep dancing, because The Fire and Reason put together high-energy, Latin-flavored electro. There's also going to be cool visuals and giveaways (courtesy of BLVD Boston) throughout the night.

TUES 6/29: Film, Talk, Rock

Yes, Victoria. There is cheap fun on a Tuesday night.

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TUES 6/29

Double Feature: "Hoosiers" (7pm), "Rumble Fish" (5pm, 9:30pm)
at Brattle Theatre, 40 Brattle St, Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
$9.75

I was looking at Dennis Hopper's filmography, and I've seen almost none of his roles in the last 10 years. It doesn't diminish the great performances that date back to the Fifties.

The Brattle is in the midst of a Hopper tribute that includes "Easy Rider" (directed and co-written by Dennis) this weekend. Hey, a double feature is about 4 hours of air-conditioned entertainment...

TUES 6/29

7pm
Jay Atkinson, "Paradise Road": Reading
at Brookline Booksmith, 279 Harvard St, Brookline (Coolidge Corner)
FREE

It's not a rewriting of Kerouac's "On The Road" or a sequel or exactly a novel either. The author traveled along Sal Paradise and Dean Moriarty's route, which probably crossed every reader's mind at least once after reading the original book.

TUES 6/29

7pm
Leslie Brunetta, "Spider Silk: Evolution and 400 Million Years of Spinning, Waiting, Snagging, and Mating": Reading
at Porter Square Books, 25 White St, Cambridge (near Star Market)
FREE

Although it's sensible that spiders (in some form) have been around for a long time, it sort of freaks me out that they've been spinning webs for 400 million years. Not exciting, but an interesting topic.

TUES 6/29

9:30pm
NoBunny, Reports, The Maine Coons, Rat City Three
at PA's Lounge, 345 Somerville Ave, Somerville (Union Sq)
$8 / 21+

I believe NoBunny is the man that fronts the band in a sorta creepy rabbit mask (and usually ensembles that Lux Interior might wear when he's on a beer-pizza-ESPN bender). The music is really great, catchy garage-rock that would be awesome fun without the spectacle. I'm guessing people will either love it or be weirded out. It'll be the culmination to a night of some fantastic fuzzy, noisy, punky rock.

MON 6/28: Ringo Art, Folk, Rock

Okay, it's a new week. Time to start again.

I haven't been to "Gong Show Karaoke" at TT the Bears yet (free at 9pm). It could be quite fun; if the performance isn't good, you know the judges will rip the singer a new one...

Much like most Mondays, Dennis Brennan is getting bluesy at Toad with The White Owls (free at 8pm). Jen Kearney, & The Lost Onion follow at 10pm.

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MON 6/28 (and TUES 6/29)

11am to Midnight
Ringo Starr Art Show
at Hard Rock Cafe, 22 Clinton St, Boston (near Faneuil Hall)
FREE

TUES 6/29 -- 11am to 2pm

The hardcore Beatles fans will want to stop by to see what Ringo does during his downtime, when not onstage with the "All Starr Band". The exhibit actually follows him on tour (I think they're playing at Harborlights tomorrow.)

I'm not saying it's bad, but there is a rudimentary yet colorful quality to the pieces. (I wonder if he uses Paintbrush or Adobe Illustrator or what?)

Even the casual Beatles fan who's downtown and is feeling like grabbing a beer may enjoy a visit. Members of the band may be there when you go or you could win prizes like concert tickets or maybe Beatles Rock Band.

Proceeds for any of the 30 pieces that are sold will benefit the Lotus Foundation, a multiple-cause charity.

MON 6/28

7pm
Ryan Adams Tribute Night
at Club Passim, 47 Palmer St, Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
$10

Feat: Melissa Ferrick, Kim Davidson, Bethel Steele, Danielle Doyle, Lisa Bastoni, John Colvert, John Gerard, more

Every now and then, Passim puts together these tribute shows where about 15 performers (give or take a few) do one or two songs by the night's designated artist. They usually don't provide a list, but I can usually track down some with web searches.

Everyone has a lot of material to choose from, since I think Ryan Adams writes hundreds of songs -- and some of them are really good from the Whiskeytown stuff to his "Heartbreaker" to his Cardinals period to "Easy Tiger", the last CD I've listened to.

One of the treats is that the wonderful Melissa Ferrick is performing tonight, and it looks like a good lineup overall. Will anyone request "Summer of 69"...?!?

MON 6/28

9:30pm
Guillermo Sexo, Broadcaster, Luau, The High Seas
at Charlie's Kitchen, 10 Eliot St, Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
$5 / 21+

As is often the case on Mondays at Charlie's, the rock is going to get loud and rowdy. Guillermo Sexo sound like they're broadening their horizons on their new CD while still maintaining a dark, noisy groove. If Ted Leo gives his thumbs up to a band (via Twitter), that should be a good enough endorsement for Broadcaster.

There could even be more punk and indie-rock beyond Luau and The High Seas. Young Mammals from Houston may play another set at the end of the night before they head out of Boston. (Probably not.)

SUN 6/27: Sunday Night Off-Topic Video

Just because I loved Pee-Wee's Playhouse:

SUN 6/27: Nerds & Songs

Want to eat, drink, and win a Vespa? If you drink Miller Lite and eat their $1 dippers (sliders with a dipping sauce) at the PourHouse from 4pm to 10pm on the next couple Sundays, you might win a scooter (drawing will be on SUN 7/11). Print this out and you should get 5 more entries...

It's still not too late to eat some barbecue or Greek food for dinner tonight...

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SUN 6/27

8pm
Nerdnite
at Middlesex Lounge, 315 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$5

Sometimes drinking in a bar seems like a fruitless endeavor. Ah, far from it! When looking up from your drink, left or right, you'll see a friend or stranger for some stimulating conversation and philosophical ramblings.

Or in the right bar at the right time is a whole group of nerds talking and listening to a couple others to enlighten us on some esoteric subjects like tonight.

Talk 1:
“That’s What She Said: Creating and Using Personal Narratives”
by Jessica Bitely

History is made by the winners, but sometimes the losers have a lot to say. This talk will explain how the making and use of oral histories can expand our understanding of the past.

Talk 2:
“Welcome to St. Augustine”
by Mary Lewey

Using 5 cameras (film and digital) to explore the history and culture of our nation’s oldest city, this presentation is a documentation of time and place, of old meeting new. Mary is a writer, photographer and bon vivant currently living in Jamaica Plain with her cat, Graham Greene.

Yes, you're destroying brain cells when you drink. Think how much smarter the survivors will be if you're listening to presentations with similarly curious people around you! You might even remember some of this stuff the next day...

SUN 6/27

Wreckless Eric & Amy Rigby (10:30pm), McGinty & White (9:40pm), Matt York (9pm)
at TT the Bear's Place, 10 Brookline St, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$10

Music fans would fondly remember Wreckless Eric if he never wrote another song after "Whole Wide World". It was punk like Elvis Costello and Nick Lowe (his early label-mates) were punk, but it's one of those enduring songs for a simple, catchy, heartfelt awesomeness. These days, he and his wife Amy Rigby are still making as much rock and roll as an acoustic & electric guitar duo can make.

The high-quality song are reserved for the headliner. Two seasoned musicians named McGinty & White get together to make some seriously melodic tunes. Matt York churns out rough 'n ready Americana like it's him and his guitar against the world.

6/25 to 6/27: Outdoor Food & Fun

These fit together thematically: You don't have to spend any money, although you'll probably will. And maybe more than $10 -- or not -- it's up to you...

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FRI 6/25 to SUN 6/27

Various Times
Greek Festivals
in Watertown and South End
- Whatever You Eat -

I love Greek food and spending time amongst Greek people. Not only has so much Western culture originated from their homeland, I also laugh when thinking about the family in "My Big Fat Greek Wedding."

The food is made by regular people, so it's like eating at someone's home -- if you had to pay per plate...

Taxiarchae-Archangels Greek Orthodox Church, 25 Bigelow Ave, Watertown

Friday & Saturday -- 11am to 11pm
Sunday -- Noon to 10pm

Your best T option is the #71 bus from Watertown Square or Harvard Square.

Saint John the Baptist Church, 15 Union Park St, Boston

Saturday -- 1pm to 10pm
Sunday -- Noon to 8pm

(They suggest taking the Silver Line.)

FRI 6/25 to SUN 6/27

Various Times
St. Peter's Fiesta
around St. Peter’s Square, Downtown Gloucester
FREE

Friday -- 4:45pm to Midnight
Saturday & Sunday -- 10am to Midnight

Good old-time cheesy Italian festival fun. I went a few years ago and had a really good time. (I don't remember the food being especially good, but it quite a spectacle overall)

Check the schedule, because you should see the horizontal greasy pole contest.

FRI 6/25 to SUN 6/27

Noon
Phantom Gourmet BBQ Beach Party
at Suffolk Downs Racetrack, 111 Waldemar Ave, East Boston
FREE / $5 on Sat & Sun

Friday & Saturday -- Noon to 10pm
Sunday -- Noon to 7pm

I don't like *paying* to buy food, but I understand that the Phantom Gourmet have expenses to organize this stuff. I'd like to think they've improved the event over the last couple years.

If you like BBQ, 6 out-of-town meat smokers and FireFly's will be there with other fun (e.g. a ferris wheel and lots of sand)... Go for free tonight or pay $3 more than regular admission to the racetrack on the weekend.

FRI 6/25: Film, Dance, Comedy, Art, Rock

With last night's race taking up several hours of quality CTB-writing time (with requisite post-race merriment), I humbly offer tonight's cheapness.

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FRI 6/25 (thru THUR 7/1)

Various Times
"The Cremaster Cycle" & "De Lama Lamina"
at Kendall Square Cinema, One Kendall Square, Cambridge
$10 / $8 matinee / $8 for 62+

The "Cremaster Cycle" may be the weirdest movie series ever. It is the result of art films getting really, really arty.

There is a connection between the films; I don't know if it's worth the time though. I've been curious to see it anyway, so maybe other people might like to know it's playing in three sections at various times through next Thursday.

I like how I organized the schedule (of course). Each program runs between 2 and 3 hours.

FRI 6/25

7pm to 11pm
Annual City of Cambridge Dance Party
in front of Cambridge City Hall, 795 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
FREE

This is just like that Martha & the Vandellas song, "Dancing in the Street"!

Cambridge stops the traffic to get down and boogie, and all are welcome. There’s dancing in the street for 4 hours, and it really is a party. For some reason, there's an uninhibited atmosphere that might come from the big crowd of all ages.

I'm guessing you'll hear a couple Michael Jackson tunes too...

There are bars in either direction, if you need a bit of liquid inspiration.

If you’re not getting your dance on, you obviously can’t drive down Mass Ave (between Inman & Bigelow) between 6pm and 11:30pm.

FRI 6/25

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

Feat: Gary Petersen, Jono Zalay, Nate Johnson, Matt Kona, Ryan Douglass

Anderson Comedy has The Gas every Friday, and I'm an advocate of the idea of early Friday fun so you can spend the rest of the night drinking yourself to oblivion -- or whatever you'd like to do.

If you been to The Gas on another night you might've seen Gary Petersen; he's going to do 45 minutes tonight, and I expect it will be some good stuff since he knows how to get creative with his routine. There will obviously be fewer laugh-ologists performing, and it's still a great deal if you're looking at the comedian-to-dollar ratio.

As usual, you can stay and dance with "The Pill" at no extra cost.

FRI 6/25

8pm to 11:30pm
"Tattoo Circus": Art Show
at: Hourglass Tattoo Studio, 1680 A Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge
FREE / 21+

From what I can tell, almost all of the artists also do skin-work (i.e. tattoos) besides inanimate media that will be on display tonight.

If you go, you should still try to send a RSVP email for the "PBR reception" from 8pm to 9pm.

I read there are monthly art shows here, so I'll try to keep an eye out...

Feat: Andy Regan, Suze Manzo, Johannes Black Stallion, Jamie Cassaboon, Dave Tree, ALONE, Joe Bastek, HELZ, Jimmy Johnson, Frede Cugno, Gerald Schiphone, Nate Dizzle, Ray Negron, Chris Torres, Guy Ursitti, Sarazah Deetz, Bryn Taylor

"All artwork will be for sale." (And maybe you'll want to talk to someone about a tattoo...)

DJ's Silent Partner and Texas Mike will spin (or "laptop"???)

FRI 6/25

9pm to 2am
Michael Jackson Tribute Party
at Red Sky, 16 North St, Boston (near Faneuil Hall)
$10 / 21+

Do you remember that the 'King of Pop' died one year ago today? I've been told it won't be entirely Michael Jackson music all night (courtesy of DJ Chris Roxx), but there will be contests like "Best Moonwalk", "Best Thriller Dance", and "Michael Jackson Look-A-Like".

Get a drink ticket for a free pint of a Wachusett brew, if you arrive between 9pm and 10pm -- so there's $5 right there!

You have to buy tickets in advance via the Social Boston Sports site, but registration doesn't take long and the potential emails aren't overwhelming. Tickets were still available when I last checked.

FRI 6/25

9pm
Static of the Gods, 28 Degrees Taurus, Do Not Forsake Me Oh My Darling, Banditas
at Middle East - Upstairs, 472 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$10 / 18+

In the past, Static of the Gods specialized in fuzzy, melodic, riff-tastic concoction. They released a new album recently, and it takes that focuses the sound into a pleasing, song-oriented direction. 28 Degrees Taurus are celebrating their new CD tonight. There are a couple new tracks on their MySpace which sound like they've also sharpened the dreamy, shoegazey, psychedelic fuzz in a pleasing progression.

Drawing inspiration from one of the coolest spy shows of the '60s, I get the sense that Do Not Forsake Me Oh My Darling has absorbed the quirky musical motifs from the soundtrack to surround the clever lyrics with arty-punky blasts of drums and fuzzed-out bass. Since I've last checked in with Banditas, they've gone electric and the female harmonies over laid-back rootsiness are still there. In a similar way to the bass-drums format of DNFMOMD, I like their streamlined approach with one guitar and a drummer; the music sounds great with the room to hear it.

All of the bands have female singers, and I'm supportive of women who rock (if that doesn't sound sexist...)

FRI 6/25

9:30pm
Young Mammals, The Big Big Bucks, Drummers, Cotton Candy
at House of Blues -- Front Room, 15 Lansdowne St, Boston (Kenmore Sq)
FREE / 21+

I think these free Friday nights have been especially strong over the last couple weeks. If I don't list these House of Blues shows, you should think about it anyway. It's going to be a fun night of rock starting with light, fluffy (and perhaps of pinkish hue?) indie-pop of Cotton Candy through to wild blast of noisy Houston kids, Young Mammals. There's not much to hear on Drummer's site, but what is there sounds promising. The Big Big Bucks shouldn't disappoint those who like the catchy tunes in loud and messy chunks.

THUR 6/24: Bike, Hip-Hop, Americana, Gaga-oke, Rock

I'm not sure if I'd want to sit outside for lunch today, but I mentioned the Wednesday lunchtime concert yesterday, so I'll let Harvard Square people that mighty fine folker Chris O'Brien is playing on Palmer St outside of Club Passim at noon as part of Thursday lunchtime concerts.

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THUR 6/24

5:30pm to 7:30pm
Roxbury Bike Tour
meet at Main Gate, Forest Hills Cemetery, 95 Forest Hills Ave, Boston
$5

The forecast suggests this ride -- through Forest Hills Cemetery, Franklin Park, and notable/historical spots in Roxbury -- will be cancelled. (Info stated, "Weather permitting.")

You can call 617-427-1006 or email to be sure.

You have to wear a helmet. (And umbrella?)

THUR 6/24

7:30pm
Theophilus London, The Cool Kids
at Middle East - Downstairs, 480 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$10 / All Ages

I didn't know that Mountain Dew had a "record label"...?! Well, they're involved with this tour.

Other than that, two underground hip-hop acts who are not that underground at this point. Both have collaborated with a load of big names (Lil Wayne, Ludacris, Drake, A-Trak, Damon Albarn, Mark Ronson, etc).

Opening and closing DJ sets by the Flavorheard DJs

THUR 6/24

8:30pm
Jimmy Ryan & Hayride, Sam Reid & the Riot Act, Eric Robertson & the Boston Boys, Jeff Conley, Eric Royer One Man Band
at Hard Rock Cafe, 22 Clinton St, Boston (near Faneuil Hall)
$10 / 21+

This night is stacked with loads of Americana/bluegrass/roots-rock bands, and the Hard Rock has monthly concerts scheduled through August with like-minded performers. Hey, anytime Jimmy Ryan is playing there will be some awesome music.

THUR 6/24 (and 7/1)

9pm
Lady Gaga Karaoke
at King's, 50 Dalton St, Boston (Back Bay)
FREE

This might be interesting to watch, because you know there is going to be a few trainwrecks as people will do their best Gaga impersonation to win tickets to the pantless pop monster's show at the Garden next week.

You could compete too. "Contestants will be judged on voice quality, originality, charisma and audience response."

THUR 6/24

9:30pm
Hey Mama
at Precinct, 70 Union Sq, Somerville (Union Sq)
$8 / 21+

I soaked in the Hey Mama experience last Thursday, and they kicked ass. They were all over the rock map while still being very "Hey Mama". Besides the bluesy, rootsy rockers that get my blood pumping there was a slightly psychedelic touch here and a summery 70s soul jam there. And that's just the tip of the iceberg.

The best part is that there is so much good vibes emanating from the stage. The crowd was dancing, clapping hands, and so on. I dare someone to not have a good time!

I screwed up, but I'll still post a review and photos soon.

THUR 6/24

9:30pm
The Murder Mile, Cult 45, Brown Boot, Cheap Leather
at Great Scott, 1222 Comm Ave, Allston
$7 / 18+

You could've seen The Murder Mile for free last night, but it's worth a few bucks to catch their big-fisted attack on the songs. There's a whole lotta rock through the hole lineup.

Cult 45 brings balls-to-the-wall bluesy metal with a chick singer whose vocals are tough yet provide the high end to give a good balance to the band. Brown Boot started out as a one-off Black Crowes tribute, then a one-off Jeff Beck/Faces tribute, has decided to stick together as an original band mixing soulful vocals and crunchy rock.

WED 6/23: Music, Music, Music

If you work near Kendall Sq, Rose Polenzani is playing at Cambridge Center Plaza (about 120 Broadway) around noon. It's part of a lunchtime series that continues on Wednesdays through the end of August.

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WED 6/23

9:30pm
Pray For Polanski, A Cat Whisker Radio, Purple Myrtle
at O'Brien's, 3 Harvard St, Allston
$5

There are two more Wednesdays in Pray For Polanski's June residency. They rip it with a spunky indie-rock style. Where I heard a rockabilly influence before, it seems more like a country bounce. Maybe it'll evolve into something new tonight or next week. I dig the male-female vocals that don't concern themselves to perfectly match that reminds a little bit of Exene and John Doe.

A Cat Whisker Radio has an old-school swing to their rock. I'm guessing they've listened to some T Rex records, and it works to my ears. I enjoy Purple Myrtle better on recordings since their bluesy noir-rock would benefit from at least a bass to throb along.

WED 6/23

9:30pm
The Murder Mile, The 86ers
at House of Blues - Front Room, 15 Lansdowne St, Boston (Kenmore Sq)
FREE

Lotsa of heavy, beefy rock going on for free tonight. I really like The Murder Mile's songs too.

Free, original music in Boston proper! It's really happening, folks.

WED 6/23

9:30pm
Boston 8-Bit Chiptune Showcase
at Great Scott, 1222 Comm Ave, Allston
$8 / 18+

Feat: Active Knowledge, Je Deviens DJ En 3 Jours, Disasterpeace, Br1ght Pr1mate, Cream in the Mustache

Music based on old-school video-game components is amusing for a little while, but I don't know how I'd feel after listening to 5 sets in a row. Maybe I would be a 8-bit convert, or maybe I'd want to choke a Mario Brother.

Visuals by VJ Beyonder

There are also 2 performers from France tonight, Je Deviens DJ En 3 Jours ("I Became a DJ in 3 Days") and Cream in the Mustache.

TUES 6/22: Music, Local & Not-So-Much

Hey, folks. Keeping it short today and maybe for a couple days, so Friday and Saturday can be earlier and better. (Believe it or not, I'm running in the JPMorgan Corporate Challenge on Thursday night too.)

I went to Hey Mama's show last Thursday, and it was a great time. I've edited my photos, so I'll post a recap/review tonight.

Stoddard's Fine Food & Ale, a new Downtown Crossing spot, is running a promotion through Saturday. They're offering a two-course prix fixe menu and a pint of cask ale for $18.68, which seems cheap enough to take a chance...

Although their site is relatively bare, it's on websites and I saw the print ad.

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TUES 6/22

8pm
Trent Dabbs, Andrew Belle, Andy Davis
at Cafe 939, 939 Boylston St, Boston (Back Bay)
$10

Nashville ain't just country anymore. For most Hank Williams Jr/Merle Haggard/etc fans, there's hardly any country left at all.

Some of the best singer-songwriters have banded together as "Ten Out of Tenn" who release CDs, tour together, and many of them seem to place songs in TV shows. (You may already know some songs.)

For example, three out of the "Tenn Ten" are passing through town tonight. They may even have copies of the collective's latest compilation for sale, which is a benefit CD for Nashville flood victims.

TUES 6/22

9pm
Secret School
at Enormous Room, 567 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
FREE

Maybe, I will go to the Enormous Room for a DJ night to see if anyone dances, since there's about 20 square feet where people can move around. I see it more as a venue for electronic pop stuff like Secret School. It's a bit ambient, but there are song structures and melodies. And, of course, there are plenty of comfy seats in the room.

TUES 6/22

9:30pm
The Cold Beat, The Mallett Brothers Band, Joe Fletcher, Lonesome Republic
at O'Brien's, 3 Harvard St, Allston
$7 / 18+

Every other Tuesday is usually "Two Plus Two" day, when HeadsUpBoston regularly offers a chance for fresh faces and fresh sounds by bringing two out-of-town bands together with two local bands. Three alt-country/folk/Americana bands (one from Maine, one from RI) will be followed by the loud, fast, lean, mean rock that is The Cold Beat.

MON 6/21: Talk, Rock, Folk

Happy Summer Solstice, folks! It's the longest day of the year, so enjoy the daylight.

...because the days will be getting shorter for the next 6 months.

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MON 6/21

7pm
David Fisichella, "Seven Tenths: Love, Piracy, and Science at Sea": Reading
at Harborside Learning Lab, New England Aquarium, 1 Central Wharf, Boston (Waterfront)
FREE w/ RSVP

My prediction is that "Seven Tenths" will eventually be made into a movie. When a real life love story centers around an unhappy engineer who escapes the problems of his life by going to the Indian Ocean on a research boat. He meets an oceanographer who is losing her vision, and they fall in love. Did I mention the pirate attack off Somalia?

What hunky guy hasn't starred opposite of Sandra Bullock yet? If you don't want to wait for the movie, Fisichella talks about his story and sign books tonight.

The "learning lab" is in the parking garage, so it has to be a good spot to beat the heat. There is usually a reception at these presentations that usually last about an hour. Registration requested.

MON 6/21

9pm
The Jetty Boys, Kepi Ghoulie (electric), The Roman Line, Zatopeks
at Church, 69 Kilmarnock St, Boston (Fenway)
$7 / 18+

No need to quibble. It's listed as "Powerpop Monday" at Church, but I'd say it's closer to "pop-punk Monday".

While I wasn't a giant fan of The Groovie Ghoulies, but I liked it when whenever I was listening. Kepi (the main Ghoulie) usually plays acoustically through Boston, and he did an electric gig around this time last year. The music comes from that vintage Ghoulies punk, but it doesn't seem to have the horror themes. Sounds pretty darn good!

It's a chance to hear some quality punk from various corners like Wisconsin (The Jetty Boys from Sheboygan), London (Zatopeks) and Toronto (The Roman Line, who add some gritty twang to their sound).

MON 6/21

10pm
So Sol, Bell & The Bees
at ZuZu!, 474 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
FREE

No matter what the thermometer reads at ZuZu, the musical temperature will be quite a bit lower.

For those in the mood to chill out, So Sol is a Brazilian/Portuguese acoustic folk trio with a wide set of influences. Their song called "Andande" is a Portuguese translation of "Walkin' After Midnight", and it works really well.

The good times remain on the relatively mellow side with Bell & The Bees who perform easygoing folky tunes from Sue Bell's sweet vocals and the varying number of Bees that may include horns, accordion, etc.

SUN 6/20: Sunday Night Off-Topic Video

Have you caught "World Cup" fever yet?



Not much of a soccer commercial -- still gotta love Snoop Dogg, Daft Punk, David Beckham, etc hanging out in the "Star Wars" cantina...

SUN 6/20: Reggae & Folk

Ach! When I screw up a post, I want to say something stronger than "frickety-frack."

Happy Father's Day to all the daddies out there!

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SUN 6/20

6pm
Buffalo Soul
at Jamaica Pond, about 507 Jamaicaway, Boston
FREE

There's a good chance that the heat and humidity of Boston doesn't hold a candle to Jamaica. (Maybe today in Boston is muggier than Kingston on New Year's Eve.) The point is that going down to Jamaica Pond to hear some reggae is a pretty good way to spend a Sunday evening.

There's a lovely pond. There will be a fine local reggae band. Listeners and dancers will complete the circle. I imagine some police may be there at some point, so ganja smoking may be more expensive than it should be. (A $100 citation?)

SUN 6/20

8:30pm
Flightless Buttress, Patrick Coman, Dan Emino, Levi Schmidt
at O'Brien's, 3 Harvard St, Allston
$5 / 18+

It's all about the song, man! I'm a big believer in "the song". Monster chops are fine, but just give me a tune I can hum in a crowded elevator!

That's what these folders are all about -- except maybe unnerving people in a confined space. Singer-songwriter Patrick Coman organizes a monthly show dubbed "For the Sake of the Song", where he unpacks a satchel of earthy songs that were seasoned by life in Oklahoma and Nashville.

A pair of soulful folksters, Dan Emino and Levi Schmidt, open things up. I especially like relaxed vibe of Levi Schmidt, which doesn't fall anywhere near Jack Johnson territory (maybe closer to B.o.B.). Likely capping off the night of acoustic music will be Flightless Buttress, a guitar and cello duo. Hey, man, a song doesn't need words to make your heart sing.

SAT 6/19: Fests & Music

Guess what? I didn't sit at the computer last night to finish up Saturday's post, and I have to leave the house at 8am. So I just want to say, "Oh, crap. I ran out of time, but here's something."

Happy Juneteenth! I guess there were happenings throughout the week that ends with a picnic at Franklin Park today.

Besides being a great beach day, there are 'strawberry festivals' (outside of T access) at Wilson Farm in Lexington and Verrill Farm in Concord.

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SAT 6/19

10am to 5pm
See New England Festival
at City Hall Plaza, Boston (Govt Center)
FREE

I wouldn't make a special trip unless you're yearning to pickup New England travel info and the like. There will be live music and some games set up.

Entertainment: Michael and Marisa (10:30am), Booty Vortex (Noon), Beatlejuice (1:30pm), "Captured - The Journey Show" (4pm)

Yes, a Beatles tribute band and a Journey tribute band...

SAT 6/19

Noon to 8pm
Joe's Jazz and Blues Fest
at Nathan Tufts Park, Broadway & College Ave Rotary, Somerville (Powderhouse Sq)
FREE

Mayor Joe loves his jazz and blues, so why not have an outdoor concert? It's a pretty good lineup and not too far from Davis Square.

Noon -- Somerville High School Jazz Ensemble
12:45pm -- Brendan Hogan & Band
1:45pm -- Evan Marien Trio
2:45pm -- Eric Hofbauer & the Infrared Band
3:45pm -- Peter Parcek 3
4:45pm -- The Ben Powell Quartet
5:45pm -- Camelia Latin Jazz Sextet
6:45pm -- Professor Harp

And I'm pretty sure Broadway is going to be closed from Magoun Square to Powderhouse for community fun and street clean-up.

Other gigs in Somerville over the next week will technically be part of the Jazz & Blues Fest.

SAT 6/19

1pm to 10pm
Make Music Festival, Volume 3
around Harvard Sq, Cambridge
FREE

Based on "Fete de la Musique" that started in Paris, it's just a loose, outdoor celebration of music in all sorts of genres. It is okay to throw something at anyone playing the vuvuzela.

Apparently no one wanted to list the schedule of over 150 acts in about 20 locations around Harvard Square. Let's say you won't miss the music if you're in Harvard Square today.

SAT 6/19

7pm
War, Paisley Project
at Hatch Shell, Storrow Dr, Boston (Charles River Esplanade)
FREE

With songs like "Low Rider", "Spill the Wine", "Cisco Kid", and "Why Can’t We Be Friends", War is funky summer party music. There might even be one or two original members... Paisley Project will play classic rock.

This is the first of a few summer concerts sponsored by WODS 103.3

SAT 6/19

8:30pm to 10pm
"Parade of Lights"
around Boston Harbor
FREE

About 30 decorated boats are going around Boston Harbor from Castle Island, to the East Boston waterfront, to the USS Constitution, then head along the waterfront from North End to the Seaport around the Fish Pier.

Not really thrilling, but at best it might be like a train of Xmas trees on the water.

I say go to Eastie to eat dinner and visit the HarborArts Outdoor Gallery...

SAT 6/19

9:30pm
Brendan Boogie & The Best Intentions, This Blue Heaven, The Doctors Fox, Glenn Yoder
at Lizard Lounge/Cambridge Common, 1667 Mass Ave, Cambridge (between Harvard Sq & Porter Sq)
$10 / 21+

A whopping amount of awesome powerpop and rock with a bit of Americana.

SAT 6/19

9:30pm
Ad Frank & The Fast Easy Women, MEandJoanCollins, Guillermo Sexo, Birds Make Birds
at Middle East - Upstairs, 472 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$10 / 18+

Singer/guitarist Jen Grygiel of MEandJoanCollins is playing a gig as her birthday party for the 3rd year in a row. If not a gift, you exchange a sawbuck for a set from probably the best band in town. I said it last year about MEandJoanCollins, and I really haven't changed my mind.

There are no slouches in this lineup. It's wall to wall rock excellence.

FRI 6/18: Comedy, Dance, Film, Rock

I haven't said this lately, but thanks for reading.

I'm really close to getting my act together here and making this as useful as it should be. Hang in there with me...

I was walking through the Seaport area this week and saw the Spanish tall ship Juan Sebastion de Elcano. It's beautiful, especially at night when the masts and all the rope is illuminated. I don't know if they're joining tomorrow night's "Parade of Lights" through the harbor, but you can board the ship at various times through Sunday near the World Trade Center.

There's not much info on the website, but Greek Festival food is going down at Sts. Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Church tonight through Sunday just a couple blocks from the heart of Central Square. I've seen it get crowded at the usual meal times, so be prepared.

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FRI 6/18

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

Feat: James Parkinson, Scott Moran, Nick Lavelle, Rob Crean, others

This is another reason why I'm not a big fan of Facebook. (I'm not saying I like MySpace better, but...) I can't get on this morning to get more details about tonight's show. I know people will say something funny, and it's a pretty good cheap time that can be a good start to Friday night and the the weekend.

You can even stay for The Pill's dance party.

FRI 6/18 (and SAT 6/19)

8:20pm
Zoe Dance presents "High Rise"
at Union Sq Plaza, Somerville (nexus of Somerville Ave, Washington St, Bow St)
FREE

I'm mainly amused by a two-stage, modern-dance story being performed with live soundtrack from a progressive rock band. I have a feeling they'll convey the story about neighbors in an apartment building.

The performances will start at sundown.

Rain dates: SUN 6/20 & MON 6/21

FRI 6/18

Sunset
"Grease" Sing-A-Long
at Hatch Shell, Storrow Dr, Boston (Charles River Esplanade)
FREE

The first feature of WBZ's Free Friday Flicks is billed as a sing-a-long. I've done extensive research on the subject, and no one is actually forced to sing along. I've seen people just sit there and watch! The proper etiquette is to accept that others will sing, and you shouldn't go if that offends you.

You can show up anytime you like, but the film should start after sundown (about 8:30pm). The WBZ might start handing out free gum and the like around 6pm...

The Friday night program resumes on 7/9 -- with "The Wizard of Oz" including a 13-minute silent version from 1910 -- and continues through the end of August. I'm actually surprised that most of the movies were released in the last two years!

The Boston Harbor Hotel is beginning its outdoor Friday films tonight with "Driving Miss Daisy", and it runs through 9/3. They have chairs, and you don't have to buy anything. I feel like you can have more elbow room on the Esplanade.

FRI 6/18

Reigning Sound (11:45pm), Movers & Shakers (10:40pm), Triple Thick (9:40pm), Sister Spaceman (9pm)
at TT the Bear's Place, 10 Brookline St, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$10

Three really cool and excellent bands will rock will prep the crowd for what is apparently Reigning Sound's first Boston gig in 5 years. (Hard to believe there are still some tickets left, but I read there will be about fifty available.) It's not going too far out on a limb to say that most garage-rock fans consider this band that started out of Memphis is probably the best stuff that's happening right now.

Triple Thick adds their own skuzzy garage romps, and they have a new CD out. Sister Spaceman continues the reverb-heavy garage-blues that we loved from Mr. Airplane Man. And Movers & Shakers always dish out a tasty stew of rootsy punk.

FRI 6/18

9:30pm
The Lights Out, AM Stereo, Trucker Mouth, Larcenist
at Middle East - Downstairs, 480 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$10 / 18+

Another damn fine rock show is next door and downstairs. The Lights Out is one of those bands that put together punchy, hooky guitar rock that I'd call radio-ready. If radio stations had the balls to play new rock, these guys would be kicking more ass than they already do. You should dig the straight-ahead rock of AM Stereo, Trucker Mouth's Southern-leaning hard rock, and some heavy Americana from Larcenist.

The show is presented by Sam Adams, so keep an eye out for potential free shwag. One can never have too many keychains! (Or can you? Hmm.)

FRI 6/18

9:30pm
Yoni Gordon & The Goods, The Bynars, One Happy Island
at House of Blues - Front Room, 15 Lansdowne St, Boston (Kenmore Sq)
FREE / 21+

Dude! I would gladly pay money to see this show, but I'll put that towards beer or merch if I go. (It was a late night at Precinct with Hey Mama, and no one high-fived me for a free beer.)

When you see some delivering the rock as passionately as Yoni Gordon, you want to look at that punky singer-songwriter flag atop the pole and give it big ol' salute! Yoni & The Goods will prick up your ears and rock you, rock you.

The Bynars goose their jangly powerpop with loads of vintage synth sounds that get the party started... Or keep the party going... Or revive the party at a really late hour so your neighbor calls the cops. Good stuff! You even get the buoyant indie-pop of One Happy Island.

FRI 6/18 (and SAT 6/19)

10pm
John Powhida International Airport, Brett Rosenberg & the Jewish Cowgirls
at Rosebud Bar & Grill (behind Diner), 381 Summer St, Somerville (Davis Sq)
$5-ish / 21+

After moving to Nashville a couple years ago, kickass guitarist Brett Rosenberg is in town for a couple of gigs at my current favorite bar in Davis Square and what is becoming the destination of many great shows.

It's going to be a night of Rudds-like rock goodness, since he'll be joined by the former Rudds drummer and the bass player from Powhida International Airport. I have a hard time believing that John Powhida and Rosenberg won't spend some time on stage together for something close to another Rudds reunion.

Together or apart, there's will be boatloads of sweet tunes and top musicianship.

Brett's is supposed to do a solo set in the same place tomorrow night opening for amazing singer-songwriter Freedy Johnston ($12)

THUR 6/17: Beer, Trees, Bunker Hill, Music

Happy Bunker Hill Day!

If you work near the Pru, you could walk through Boylston Plaza between 11:30am to 1:30pm today and get a free bottle of Snapple. (Remember when Snapple was the hottest thing around?)

Like I said on previous days, there's plenty of other Boston Beer Week happenings -- I happen to like the free tastings, such as the two below...

There's also a couple participatory events in JP tonight, if you want to get some creative writing guidance or help prepare for the Forest Hills Lantern Parade.

Go, Celtics!

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THUR 6/17

6pm
Meet the Peak Organic Brewer: Beer Tasting
at Atwoods Tavern, 877 Cambridge St, Cambridge (near Inman & Kendall Sq)
FREE / 21+

I'm not sure if I've drank anything other than their IPA, but why not support an organic beer -- as long as it tastes good...

Stick around... Have a couple pints... Talk to the Peak people...

If you stick around, the Dennis Brennan Quatro is rocking out at 10pm. The cover is $5, but this is the kind of place that'll let you stay if you've been drinking there for 4 hours...

THUR 6/17

6:30pm to 8pm
David Allen Sibley, "The Sibley Guide to Trees": Book Signing Party
at Liberty Hotel, Ebersol Suite, 215 Charles St, Boston (Beacon Hill)
FREE

Are there any birdwatchers out there? The modern master of bird-guides has zooms out a bit and notices the trees. A portion of the proceeds from book sales (other Sibley Guides will also be available) will benefit the Friends of the Public Garden.

There'll be a cash bar, and hors d'oeuvres and a complimentary glass of wine will be offered to all attendees. Dress is casual.

RSVP recommended. Contact Mark Duffield via email or at 617-227-4646

They say the Ebersol Suite has a beautiful view of the city...

THUR 6/17

7pm to 8pm
Thomas Fleming, "Now We Are Enemies: The Story of Bunker Hill": Discussion & Signing
at Harvard Coop, Level 3, 1400 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
FREE

Historian and author Thomas Fleming wrote the essential Battle of Bunker Hill book fifty years ago, and it has been reissued. After a Bunker Hill Day ceremony in the morning, he heads to Harvard Square to discuss his first book and sign some copies on the 235th anniversary.

(Sorry, folks. The parade was on Sunday.)

THUR 6/17

7pm
Melvern Taylor & His Fabulous Meltones

10pm
Fred The Donkey

at Toad, 1912 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Porter Sq)
FREE

Any night is a good night to hear free live music at Toad. This is one of the better nights with the breezy, old-time acoustic swing of Melvern Taylor's ukulele and the Meltones chugging along.

The good times and tunes continue later. I've probably mentioned the Apollo Sunshine connection every time Bell & The Bees play, but down-to-earth multi-instrumentalist Jesse Gallagher is difficult to ignore along with the rich voice of Sue Bell. Fred the Donkey is another Jesse project where he plays old jazz & country tunes in a trio with his dad on second guitar.

THUR 6/17

7:30pm to 9pm
Open House / Tour
at Harpoon Brewery, 306 Northern Avenue, Boston (Seaport)
FREE / 21+

I went last night, and it was as good as I hoped it would be. The beer was flowing, and I took the tour where you get most of the similar brewing background that you hear on any brewery visit. The cool part was that you were walking through their real, working operation.

I think I was on the second tour which probablt started at 8pm, and "last call" was fairly close to 9pm.

THUR 6/17

Little Big (10:50pm), Butterknife (9:55pm), Sodafrog (9pm), Davina Yannetty (8:40pm)
at TT the Bear's Place, 10 Brookline St, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$7

Being an Iranian indie-rock band who fled to America is a good angle, but I read that Hypernova won't be able to make it tonight (so I photoshopped their name out of the flyer above). It might start later, but I'm leaving the times as I saw them. (I think it's a better balanced show without the fifth act.)

For a little bit of the punky pop sound, Little Big is an aptly named duo with a tall bassist and a much shorter female singer who must have been too crowded in their last band which was a trio. It's fun catchy stuff that's probably backed with a laptop. The guy used to play bass with Butterknife who are celebrating their CD release, and it sounds really good in a jangly-and-punchy way.

Sodafrog has usually been a solo project for Tom Janovitz, but his delicate, well-honed Americana may be backed by a band; perhaps from his CD release show a couple months ago.

I first heard Davina Yannetty in the East Boston Make-Out Club Band, and she's still rocking the ukulele while creating wonderfully witty tunes and probably pulling out surprise cover tune. Get there early, and you'll be won over.

THUR 6/17

9:30pm
Hey Mama
at Precinct, 70 Union Sq, Somerville (Union Sq)
$8

I said it last week, I'll say it again: When you're looking bluesy, rootsy, stick-your-finger-in-electrical-socket, get-off-your-butt rock 'n roll, it's difficult to do better than two big scoops of Hey Mama.

For tonight's first set, they're going acoustic and will be joined by another guitarist as well as a mandolinist and banjo player for a bit o' bluegrass twist.

I'm planning to be there, so if you can find me and give me a high-five I will probably buy you a (domestic) beer. If you can't make it, they are playing next Thursday too.

WED 6/16: Peace Corps, Beer, Prince, Rock

Okay, let's try this one more time...

Go, Celtics!

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WED 6/16

Noon to 1pm
Information Meeting
at Regional Peace Corps Office, Suite 559, 10 Causeway Street, Boston (North Station)
FREE

6pm
Information Meeting
at O'Neill Federal Bldg Auditorium, First Floor, 10 Causeway Street, Boston (North Station)
FREE w/ RSVP

A free trip to a strange land... Looks cool on a resume...

It can be hard work, but volunteering in a foreign country would be an amazing adventure. It's like a 27-month, all expenses paid trip overseas where you're going to make a difference in the world.

Stop by during the day to watch a video and/or talk to a recruiter. There's also an evening session where you can hear Peace Corps volunteers talk about their experiences.

Perhaps it's time to try something new. Apparently you don't have to be young or speak a foreign language to join up. Is your job really better than teaching kids in Guyana for a couple years?

RSVP required for the evening session via email or at 617-565-5555. Include your name & phone number or email address.

WED 6/16 & THUR 6/17

7:30pm to 9pm
Open House / Tour
at Harpoon Brewery, 306 Northern Avenue, Boston (Seaport)
FREE / 21+

On previous visits to the Harpoon Brewery, the "tour" consisted of a tasting session, a presentation, and another tasting session. There's nothing wrong with that, but the brewery is right behind you.

On the next two days, it sounds like beer-lovers will be able to walk through the glass doors onto the brewing floor too. It's free and beery. There's plenty of other Boston Beer Week happenings tonight and beyond; this is my cheap pick.

WED 6/16

9pm to 10:30pm
Soular Wednesdays: Prince Tribute
at Milky Way Lounge/Bella Luna, 284 Amory St, Jamaica Plain (The Brewery Complex)
$5

Every year around Prince's birthday (June 7), the Soulkore crew puts together a celebration of the Purple One. It's happening on their biweekly night at the Milky Way where DJ Nomadik & Bigg Nez host music and comedy.

Live performances of Prince material (along with their own material) by Allyssa Jones, Troy Durden, April Stanford.

If your ever going to wear those ass-less pants, tonight's the night...

WED 6/16

9:30pm
Quintron & Miss Pussycat, Jeff the Brotherhood, Viva Viva, Thick Shakes
at Great Scott, 1222 Comm Ave, Allston
$10

Quintron and Miss Pussycat bring the party like no others. You may have heard some wild, funky '60s, organ-driven dance-rock before. You may have seen a bizarre puppet show before. You will never-ever see them put together like Q (with the coolest keyboard setup) and Miss P in one of the most energetic shows, period! If they were the only performers, this would still be a deal at $10.

They don't play Boston very often, so I'm surprised it hasn't sold out yet. If you can get in, two of our most rockingest local bands Viva Viva and Thick Shakes are playing as well as the musical hurricane that is Nashville guitar-drums duo Jeff the Brotherhood

WED 6/16

11pm
The Goodnight Loving
at Plough & Stars, 912 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$5

Another nice option is The Goodnight Loving from Milwaukee. Looks like there's no opener -- hopefully just an extra-long set of tasty, folky, classic-pop garage-rock.

Sneak Peek 6/17: Create Lanterns/Words in JP

THUR 6/17 (and THUR 6/24)

6pm to 8:30pm
Shade-Making Party
at Eliot School, 24 Eliot St, Jamaica Plain
- Your time & effort -

The annual Lantern Festival at Forest Hills Cemetery is always one of the highlights in cheapness. You may not think about it, but the pond wouldn't look as special without the floating lanterns!

Volunteers are needed to make them. No experience needed -- they'll show you how to do it. They provide pizza even if you suck at it...

If you feel like it, there's another session next week at the same time.

Send them an email to let them know you're coming.


THUR 6/17
(thru THUR 7/28)

6:30pm to 8pm
Creative Writing Class
at Jamaica Plain Library, 12 Sedgwick St, Jamaica Plain
FREE

If you've been feeling like writing and could use some guidance and/or inspiration, it would be difficult to find better help than a free five-week workshop.

Writer and MFA candidate Abby Machson-Carter will be leading the class as it covers "poetry, prose, fiction and writing from memory" on 5 Thursdays over the next two months: 6/17, 6/24, 7/1, 7/15, and 7/28.

All you need to bring is a desire to write (and probably something to write with). Abby says, "Bring old pieces or start new ones – we’ll guarantee to get your creative juices flowing."

Email Abby if you want to register. I checked, and there are still some spots available.

TUES 6/15: Law & Bard, Booze, Music

I have to continue doing it, since it's been working:

Let's go, Celtics!

If taking the commuter rail could work for you and you don't mind giving the MBTA your information, you could enter to win a 10-ride pass and free MBTA lot parking. FYI: "Submissions must be received no later than noon on Wednesday, June 16."

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TUES 6/15

5:30pm
Shakespeare & the Law: "Henry V"
at Cutler Majestic Theatre, 219 Tremont Street, Boston (Theatre District)
FREE w/ RSVP

You might still be able to RSVP (required) to Dorothy Moore: by email or 617-449-6617

The local chapter of the Federalist Society has presented annual Shakespeare readings and discussions for 10 years. The program usually consists of an abridged, staged reading of the play performed by judges, attorneys, law professors, and other notables like former Lt. Gov. Kerry Healey and a-hole columnist Jeff Jacoby.

It's followed by related panel discussion that's expected to explore "the law and war - including the role of patriotism, the treatment of enemy combatants, the use of torture, and the trial of foreign terrorists."

The fun part is that one of the panelists is former Bush DOJ attorney John Yoo who was instrumental in the legal opinions that basically sanctioned the torture of detainees. However he won't get much heat in this friendly situation

TUES 6/15

6pm
Meet the Smuttynose Brewer: Beer Tasting
at Atwoods Tavern, 877 Cambridge St, Cambridge (near Inman & Kendall Sq)
FREE

This is one of those Boston Beer Week events. Of the ones listed tonight, I liked the idea of trying a few different brews (Finest Kind IPA, Old Brown Dog, '08 Imperial Stout, Gnome, and a cask of Big A IPA) from a really tasty NH brewery.

If this was on my way home, I wouldn't have a problem to stay for a couple pints of Smuttynose -- or any of the dozens of beer on tap. Keep in mind, the brewer is supposed to be there to talk and drink with you.

TUES 6/15

6pm to 8pm
Stuff's Food Issue Party
at Pairings, 50 Park Plaza, Boston (inside Park Plaza Hotel)
FREE w/ RSVP / 21+

Since it's the Food Issue, I'd like to think there will be some appetizers floating around the room to 'pair' with the complimentary DonQ rum cocktails.

You might be able to still RSVP.

TUES 6/15

9pm
The Dangerous Brothers, Danielle Miraglia
at Lizard Lounge/Cambridge Common, 1667 Mass Ave, Cambridge (between Harvard Sq & Porter Sq)
$5 / 21+

The Dangerous Brothers s in the middle of a June residency where mandolinist extraordinaire Jimmy Ryan, roots-rock man Christian McNeill, and other rip through some souped-up bluegrass-rock amalgamation.

This week's opening guest is the bluesy, folky Danielle Miraglia who brings a big bagful of stirring songs to charm you with soulful voice and sweet fingerpicking guitar chops.

TUES 6/15

The Rodeo Church (11:15pm), The Grates (10:15pm), Busy Arms (9:15pm)
at TT the Bear's Place, 10 Brookline St, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$8

It's a line-up shiny, happy music anchored by Australian trio The Grates in the middle. They hit town a little while ago, and the exuberant, bouncy rock caught my ear. I sense the Aussie joie-de-vivre and humor, and the singer has a pleasing stage presence.

Although The Rodeo Church sings about being "Miserable" and "Desperate", the music itself is upbeat tuneful rock. I hope they still have a keyboard player, because it adds a lot of the cheery colors to the lyrics. They also have a potential hit with their Conan t-shirts. After working on it for 3 years, Busy Arms is celebrating the release of their 8-song CD. From what I've read, live performances can vary based on the guys playing with the 2 main guys, but the folky rock gels with the other bands.

6/15: Party w/ Free Rum Drinks

6pm to 8pm
Stuff's Food Issue Party
at Pairings, 50 Park Plaza, Boston
(inside Park Plaza Hotel)
FREE w/ RSVP / 21+

I will say something sincere about Stuff magazine.

You can find some good articles about food, especially if it's the long-form pieces by Louisa Kasdon, Ruth Tobias and MC Slim JB. I think they all wrote something for this issue.

If you feel like having a couple free rum cocktails (thanks to DonQ Rum), you may still be able to RSVP.

My standard Stuff Party note: Every rummy needs to RSVP individually. If you don't like the emails they may send you in the future, it's easy to click 'delete'...

I assume you'll also be able to find out what appetizers 'pair' well with rum...

MON 6/14: Trail Nosh, Eggs, Film, Rock

Aloha, friends. It wasn't a sunny weekend, and the forecast isn't that great for the week; but our basketball team is one win away from another championship.

Yesterday's brunch menu included an item with Gulf shrimp. I had to make a wisecrack, but we should remember that no one is going to send or serve bad seafood; it was delicious by the way.

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MON 6/14

6:30pm to 8pm
Hiking Nutrition Clinic
at Boston REI, 401 Park Dr, Boston (Fenway)
FREE

Some of you may want to go hiking, and it's not bad to get a little advice on what food to bring. Maybe hiking does have different requirements than other long-distance exercise, but I imagine non-hikers can pick up a few tips.

Kim Raubenheimer of Your Health Sense will answer questions such as:

Are you lacking the energy you need to finish your hike? Do you know what to pack that is healthy and portable? Do you know how to pick out healthy food choices while shopping?

When I checked on Sunday, there were still spots to register.

MON 6/14

7pm to 9pm
2nd Annual Deviled-Egg Off
at PA's Lounge, 345 Somerville Ave, Somerville (Union Sq)
$10 suggested donation

The bad news is that it's too late for you to enter your eggs in any of the categories (best traditional, best creative, or "deviled gone wild").

The good news is that you can a beer or two and try all of the versions the classic party snack, and your donation benefits Community Servings who provide home-delivered meals to people in Eastern Mass with HIV/AIDS and life-threatening illnesses who have difficulty cooking or shopping for themselves.

The bad news is that you'll probably eat more than you should. The good news is that this only happens once a year -- and they're so devilishly tasty! So be healthy i general and don't worry about the mayo and calories.

There are some photos from last year on Facebook.

MON 6/14

7:30pm
Best of Boston 48 Hour Film Project
at Kendall Square Cinema, 370 Binney St, Cambridge
$10

Last month, about 100 filmmaking teams created shorts from start to finish over one weekend. On Friday they were each given a genre, a character, a prop and a line of dialogue. Every aspect of the film was done in 48 hours with final product turned in on Sunday night.

All of them were screened in May, and tonight's program consists of about 15 of the best entries. Awards will be announced tonight including "Best Film" of course.

I haven't seen any of these shorts, but I'm picking my faves like at the race track -- by the names: "404bidden_Love", "Luke Discovers the Ability to Time Travel into the Future in Fifteen Second Intervals", and "Pie Heist"

MON 6/14

10pm
Girlfriends, Life Partners, Bone Zone
at Charlie's Kitchen, 10 Eliot St, Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
$5 / 21+

Girlfriends is my favorite band of the night, and I'm guessing they're playing last. While you await their fabulously, fan-friggin'-tastic, fuzzy garage-pop, there's a batch of witty noise-rock from Life Partners and a blast of spazzy post-punk from Bone Zone.