SUN 10/31: Sunday Night Off-Topic Video(s)

Hey, I was out in the boonies in Maine...

Sneak Peek: SAT 10/30

Your set of cheap options on All Hallow's Eve Eve.

Again -- while over $10, the annual Halloween Horror Movie Marathon at Coolidge Corner Theatre is a good deal if you can stay up from midnight to noon on Sunday.

I may be able to get a Sunday post up soon, but there is some items in my weekend Halloweeny post.

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SAT 10/30 and SUN 10/31

10am
15th Annual Boston Vegetarian Food Festival
at Reggie Lewis Athletic Center, 1350 Tremont St, Boston (near Roxbury Crossing T)
FREE

Until 6pm on Saturday -- Until 4pm on Sunday

You know what's scary? The massive crowd in the tiny exhibit space when this was only on one day when people were going crazy for samples of vegetarian treats.

You'll have better luck on Sunday.

SAT 10/30

1pm to 8pm
"Halloween on Newbury"
at Best Buy, 3rd Floor, 360 Newbury St, Boston (Back Bay)
FREE

Feat: Kingston530 (1:30pm), Oranjuly (2:45pm), McAlister Drive (4pm), SuperVolcano (5pm)

This doesn't feel very "Halloween" to me, but that's apparently what it's called. If you're in the area, check it out. There should be giveaways and contests too.

If you're going to hear one band, try for Oranjuly.

SAT 10/30

1pm to 5pm
"The Grand Tasting Event"
at Gordon's Fine Wine & Liquors, 894 Main St, Waltham
FREE

Are you near Waltham tomorrow? Get your sample-drink on at about 15 tasting stations (along with a few complimentary tastings too). At least some, if not many, wines will be discounted 21%.

SAT 10/30 (and SUN 10/31)

6:30pm & 8pm
"Choose Your Own Opera Adventure: An Original Cabaret"
at VFW George Dilboy Post, 371 Summer St, Somerville (Davis Sq)
FREE

In their continuing efforts to bring fresh and exciting opera productions to the people (Best-show-title-ever contender: "Goethe Your Hand Off My Heine"), OperaHub mashes classic selections of the genre into an interactive cabaret format.

They're doing 5 shows altogether that will each be different thanks to the whim of the audiences.

The final show:

Sunday

3pm
at Spontaneous Celebrations, 45 Danforth St, Jamaica Plain

If you want to reserve tickets, send an email with your name, phone number, requested performance date, and number of seats requested.

SAT 10/30

9pm
Heloise & The Savoir Faire, Big Digits, Banditas, DJ Disco Phantom
at Enormous Room, 567 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$5 / 21+

Electro/hip-hop meets rootsy indie-rock.

SAT 10/30

7:30pm
"Scared for Good" Halloween Concert
at Old South Church, 645 Boylston St, Boston (Copley Sq)
FREE

The "Phantom" will play that creepy organ song as well as spooky theme songs, etc.

"A voluntary offering will be taken to benefit [various] non-profit organizations."

SAT 10/30

8pm
Polk Records Halloween Bash
at PA's Lounge, 345 Somerville Ave, Somerville (Union Sq)
$7 -- 21+ / $10 -- 18+

Feat: SuperVolcano as MGMT, A Bit Much as Ziggy Stardust, PFM as Radiohead, StreightAngular as Passion Pit, Deezy & the Brobots as Weezer, Birdorgan as The Residents, Whore At The Door as The Pixies

This reminds me that these gigs are for the fun of it. There's already way more "bands being other bands" than you need in one show and there is a bunch of guys doing a set of Pixies.

SAT 10/30

8:30pm
Innerpink as Bowie & Queen, Amigazo's Metal Extravaganza
at Castlebar, 575 Washington St, Brighton (Oak Sq)
$5 / 21+

There is a "special film screening" at 8:30pm, and the music starts at 10pm. No reason not to sow up early at Castlebar where the drinks are generally cheap and stiff.

SAT 10/30

9:30pm
The (ex-)Sneaks as Wilco, Old Jack as Jenny Lewis, Nate Leavitt as Ryan Adams
at Rosebud Bar & Grill (behind Diner), 381 Summer St, Somerville (Davis Sq)
$5 / 21+

If Wilco, Jenny Lewis, and Ryan Adams were playing on the same bill, I'd want to see it. Also known as Halloween Jam at Rosebud.

SAT 10/30

9:30pm
Hallelujah The Hills, Magic Magic, Boy Without God
at Great Scott, 1222 Comm Ave, Allston
$10 / 21+

Wow, this gig makes me wish my friends were getting married on another weekend. Any chance to see Hallelujah The Hills is worthwhile. I love their noisy alt/chamber/rock, and "Wave Backwards To Massachusetts" from their previous album will always be one of my favorite 'state' songs.

Thankfully, I've figured out that Magic Magic is from Dedham instead of Salem, so I won't make a stupid witch reference. Still this is some very cool retro/psych indie-rock to absorb. On top of these two bands, Boy Without God is a fantastic songwriter with a great voice.

SAT 10/30

Spitzz as The Cramps (Midnight), The Coffin Lids (11pm), Sticky Business (10pm)
at Cantab Underground / Club Bohemia, 738 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$8

There will probably be a band at 9pm-ish at Nancy Neon's Halloween Bash. Besides the creepy garage/punk, Sticky Business is a bubblegum-rock tribute.

SAT 10/30 (and SUN 10/31)

Midnight
"Rocky Horror Picture Show"
at Loews Harvard Square, 10 Church St, Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
$10 / 17+

Sunday: 10pm

So these guys do the "Time Warp" every week, but doesn't it feel like a good outing for Halloween weekend... The classic camp and all the accoutrements will be seen over three nights instead of one.

Or if you haven't seen the movie yet, this might be a good excuse.

FRI 10/29: Art, Film, Music, More

I hope to have more Saturday and Sunday cheapage besides my Halloweenie stuff below.

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FRI 10/29

6pm to 8pm
"Freeky Fright Nights": Art Reception & Costume Party
at Space 242, 242 E Berkeley St, 2nd Fl, Boston (South End)
FREE w/ RSVP

More creepy art and costume party (optional) where the beer flows like wine.

FRI 10/29

6:30pm & 10pm
"Inception": Weekend-Long Screenings
at Room 100, Bldg 26, 60 Vassar St, Cambridge (MIT campus)
$4 / $5 for weekend pass

I saw this thing, and someone might want to watch "Inception" over and over again. I was told to pay extra close attention, and I'm satisfied with one viewing.

On the other hand, it probably wouldn't hurt. Maybe watch tonight then one or two more times...

You can go to all 6 or $5. Be sure you bring a photo ID when you buy your ticket and when you go multiple times.

(thru SUN 10/31)

6:30pm & 8pm
"Choose Your Own Opera Adventure: An Original Cabaret"
at VFW George Dilboy Post, 371 Summer St, Somerville (Davis Sq)
FREE

In their continuing efforts to bring fresh and exciting opera productions to the people (Best-show-title-ever contender: "Goethe Your Hand Off My Heine"), OperaHub mashes classic selections of the genre into an interactive cabaret format.

They're doing 5 shows altogether that will each be different thanks to the whim of the audiences.

The rest of the performances:

Saturday

3pm
at Brookline Public Library, Main Branch, 361 Washington St, Brookline

Sunday

3pm
at Spontaneous Celebrations, 45 Danforth St, Jamaica Plain

If you want to reserve tickets, send an email with your name, phone number, requested performance date, and number of seats requested.

FRI 10/29

7pm
Halloween Recital: "The Really Loud Whorrorshow"
at Inner Space Yoga, 17 Station St, Brookline (Brookline Village)
FREE / All Ages

Jordan Voelker & Paran Amirinazari, violinist and violist who play in several bands (including Beat Circus), will perform a scary mix of classical pieces and movie themes. Expect some toy piano and saw too.

This actually sounds like a fun, quirky option from a couple of string players that aren't afraid of being loud and in your face.

"Donations and costumes encouraged."

Hey, there's quite a few good drink & food options in the neighborhood...

FRI 10/29

7pm
Halloween Night Walk
meet at Valley Gates Parking Lot, Circuit Dr, Boston (Franklin Park, between Playstead and Golf Course)
FREE

People are told, "Wear comfortable shoes and leave the flashlights at home."

The last time I was walking around Franklin Park, I actually said "I wouldn't want to have to walk around here at night. There will be some moonlight, the park doesn't have many artificial lights.

Maybe someone will tell some ghost stories. Chances are good that someone will try to make scary noises...

FRI 10/29

7pm
Humanwine, Vadalna Tribal Dance Company
at Pozen Center, 621 Huntington Ave, Boston (MassArt, enter on Evans Way)
FREE / All Ages

Yes, the iron pour has been cancelled, but revelry has been moved to the Pozen Center. Humanwine can create an eerie vibe all by themselves, and the Vadalna Tribal Dance Company seems like they'll enhance the vibe.

"All are welcome and come dressed up in your halloween costume."

FRI 10/29

9pm
Infrastructure, The Doctors Fox, Abbie Barrett, Brendan Boogie
at Johnny D's, 17 Holland St, Somerville (Davis Sq)
$10 / 21+

It's a mixed goodie-bag of music for people that don't want to see Halloween-theme show tonight. It should be a good time.

I know Brendan Boogie brings the party, and there's a lot of party potential as the night progresses from there.

FRI 10/29

9pm
The Joshua Tree
at Harpers Ferry, 158 Brighton Ave, Allston
$10 / 21+

This may be the first time I've mentioned The Joshua Tree, U2 tribute band, but they do a pretty good job. Since Harpers is closing on Sunday to be reborn as a more corporate venue, this is the last $10 show at Harpers Ferry.

FRI 10/29

9:30pm
Union Square Round Table: "The Softer Sciences"
at PA's Lounge, 345 Somerville Ave, Somerville (Union Sq)
$7 -- 21+ / $10 -- 18+

Feat: Eugenia Williamson, Somerville Speakout, Eugene Mirman

Musical guest: Nuclear Power Pants

In my mind, this may always be somewhere between a comedy and variety show with a stable of regular performers that may tell jokes or just speak about something (with or without multimedia) that will make you laugh or maybe do something else slightly strange.

Tonight's guests include a Eugene and a Eugenia, so that's pretty special right there. Nuclear Power Pants are supposed to put on a crazy live show, and you might want to see them while they're passing through. I personally think Somerville Speakout is hilarious.

FRI 10/29

10pm
The Pill's 8th Annual Halloween Show
at Great Scott, 1222 Comm Ave, Allston
$10 / 21+

Feat: The Honors as Morrissey, Bearstronaut as The Rapture, Vostok 4 as The Talking Heads

I've heard good things about The Pill's Halloween shows. Maybe it was from the folks that run it...? Still, it should be a good night -- and popular. The cover is a bit more than usual, but there's more spectacle and live rock.

The Honors supposedly killed it as The Smiths last year, so why not have them take the next step and do Morrissey's solo stuff. I'm glad to see some love for Talking Heads, because I think people forget how awesome they were.

"Costumes are encouraged though not mandatory, however we still ask you to look bloody sharp."

FRI 10/29 (thru SUN 10/31)

Midnight
"Rocky Horror Picture Show"
at Loews Harvard Square, 10 Church St, Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
$10 / 17+

Sunday: 10pm

So these guys do the "Time Warp" every week, but doesn't it feel like a good outing for Halloween weekend... The classic camp and all the accoutrements will be seen over three nights instead of one.

Or if you haven't seen the movie yet, this might be a good excuse.

10/29 to 10/31: Halloweeny Cheapness

As usual, it's not a complete list -- just my highlights. (Iron Pour tonight! Cancelled, but music & dance will still happen.)

There is more non-Halloween Friday cheapness on the calendar with more to come.

I'm leaving for Portland today, so wish me luck...

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FRI 10/29

6pm to 8pm
"Freeky Fright Nights": Art Reception & Costume Party
at Space 242, 242 E Berkeley St, 2nd Fl, Boston (South End)
FREE w/ RSVP

More creepy art and costume party (optional) where the beer flows like wine.

FRI 10/29

7pm
Halloween Recital: "The Really Loud Whorrorshow"
at Inner Space Yoga, 17 Station St, Brookline (Brookline Village)
FREE / All Ages

Jordan Voelker & Paran Amirinazari, violinist and violist who play in several bands (including Beat Circus), will perform a scary mix of classical pieces and movie themes. Expect some toy piano and saw too.

"Donations and costumes encouraged."

FRI 10/29

7pm
Halloween Night Walk
meet at Valley Gates Parking Lot, Circuit Dr, Boston (Franklin Park, between Playstead and Golf Course)
FREE

Could be spooky just walking in the dark.

"Wear comfortable shoes and leave the flashlights at home. All ages welcome."

FRI 10/29

7pm
Iron Pour
at MassArt Courtyard, 621 Huntington Ave, Boston (The Fens)
Humanwine, Vadalna Tribal Dance Company
at Pozen Center, 621 Huntington Ave, Boston (MassArt, enter on Evans Way)
FREE / All Ages

Feat: Humanwine, Vadalna Tribal Dance Company

It's fire and molten metal and eclectic music and dancing.

Okay, the iron pour portion has been cancelled (thanks, Anonymous), but revelry has been moved to the Pozen Center.

"All are welcome and come dressed up in your halloween costume."

FRI 10/29

10pm
The Pill's 8th Annual Halloween Show
at Great Scott, 1222 Comm Ave, Allston
$10 / 21+

Feat: The Honors as Morrissey, Bearstronaut as The Rapture, Vostok 4 as The Talking Heads

Dance and listen to bands pretending to be other bands.

"Costumes are encouraged though not mandatory, however we still ask you to look bloody sharp."

FRI 10/29 (thru SUN 10/31)

Midnight
"Rocky Horror Picture Show"
at Loews Harvard Square, 10 Church St, Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
$10 / 17+

Sunday: 10pm

Yeah, they do it every week, but it seems like a Halloween thing to do...

Or if you haven't seen the movie yet, this might be a good excuse.

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SAT 10/30

7:30pm
"Scared for Good" Halloween Concert
at Old South Church, 645 Boylston St, Boston (Copley Sq)
FREE

The "Phantom" will play that creepy organ song as well as spooky theme songs, etc.

"A voluntary offering will be taken to benefit [various] non-profit organizations."

SAT 10/30

8pm
Polk Records Halloween Bash
at PA's Lounge, 345 Somerville Ave, Somerville (Union Sq)
$7 -- 21+ / $10 -- 18+

Feat: SuperVolcano as MGMT, A Bit Much as Ziggy Stardust, PFM as Radiohead, StreightAngular as Passion Pit, Deezy & the Brobots as Weezer, Birdorgan as The Residents, Whore At The Door as The Pixies

This reminds me that these gigs are for the fun of it. There's already way more "bands being other bands" than you need in one show and there is a bunch of guys doing a set of Pixies.

SAT 10/30

8:30pm
Innerpink as Bowie & Queen, Amigazo's Metal Extravaganza
at Castlebar, 575 Washington St, Brighton (Oak Sq)
$5 / 21+

There is a "special film screening" at 8:30pm, and the music starts at 10pm. No reason not to sow up early at Castlebar where the drinks are generally cheap and stiff.

SAT 10/30

9:30pm
The (ex-)Sneaks as Wilco, Old Jack as Jenny Lewis, Nate Leavitt as Ryan Adams
at Rosebud Bar & Grill (behind Diner), 381 Summer St, Somerville (Davis Sq)
$5 / 21+

Also known as Halloween Jam at Rosebud.

SAT 10/30

Spitzz as The Cramps (Midnight), The Coffin Lids (11pm), Sticky Business (10pm)
at Cantab Underground / Club Bohemia, 738 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$8

There will probably be a band at 9pm-ish at Nancy Neon's Halloween Bash. Besides the creepy garage/punk, Sticky Business is a bubblegum-rock tribute.

SAT 10/30

Midnight to Noon
Annual Halloween Horror Movie Marathon
at Coolidge Corner Theatre, 290 Harvard St, Brookline
$20

Feat: "Hausu", "Re-Animator", more

Performances: Dick Panthers, Devilicia (of Black Cat Burlesque), psychic readings

More than $10, but it's 12 friggin' hours. Four of the movies are surprises.

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SUN 10/31

8pm to Midnight
Annual Halloween Bike Ride
meet outside Green Street T Stop, about 150 Green St, Jamaica Plain
FREE / All Ages

A wild (yet slow-paced) ride through Boston -- JP, Brookline, Boston, Allston, Cambridge, and back to JP -- in costume.

SUN 10/31

Viva Viva (11:30pm), Doomstar (10:30pm), SkiMask (9:30pm)
at The Midway Cafe, 3496 Washington St, Jamaica Plain
$10

Maybe not too Halloween, but costumes encouraged.

Doors open at 8pm, and there will be some free beer to entice you to get there early.

SUN 10/31

9pm
Tributes to Ween, Talking Heads, Mclusky, Shellac
at O'Brien's, 3 Harvard St, Allston
$9 / 18+

Feat: Taste the Waste as Ween, Radio Head as Talking Heads, No Covers as Mclusky, Shut Up Messenger Bag as Shellac

Great names for these bands that include musicians from Campaign For Real Time, Mean Creek, Shore Leave, The New Dumb, and many more.

SUN 10/31

9:30pm
Halloween Show to Benefit Horror Business
at Great Scott, 1222 Comm Ave, Allston
$10 / 18+

Feat: Elena Siegman does "country-fried metal", The Jack Chops as Cock Sparrer, Tijuana Sweetheart do "sleazy ‘80s cock rock", Ska Prest as reggae-style Misfits, Madame Psychosis, Mary Widow (of Black Cat Burlesque), members of BLOWW, more

Yes, a benefit show for a store.

THUR 10/28: Halloween, Interactivity, Dance

D'oh! I fell asleep before doing a Halloween weekend post. Hopefully today/tonight, and I'll try to update the calendar.

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THUR 10/28

6pm to 10pm
"Hellbound: The Party"
at Tommy Doyle's, 96 Winthrop St, Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
$5 / 21+

Hang out with comics artists while they celebrate their collection of one-page horror stories, "Hellbound". There will be sketching battles, a costume contest, and an auction for special editions of the book.

All proceeds benefit the Boston Comics Roundtable. (Cool poster, no?)

THUR 10/28

7:30pm
"The Ego & The Oracle" w/ Jim's Big Ego
at The Burren, 247 Elm St, Somerville (Davis Sq)
$10 / 13+

The first time I saw "The Ego & The Oracle", I really just wanted to see Jim's Big Ego perform and was amused by the interactive question portion. ("Elvis Costello did a "wheel of song" tour back in the '80s, so that's cool," I thought.)

It turned out to be rather eerie and mystical as the audience would have their questions answered by the song that they spun and subsequently played by JBE. After the song, there's a discussion to interpret the answer provided by nebulous "The Oracle".

The beauty is Jim's Big Ego has a giant barrel of awesome folky-rockish songs, and the subject matter is varied to offer almost any response to any question. I'll repeat myself:

If there was any justice, this metaphysical music/comedy show would be playing 6 nights a week in a big theatre, and no one would know "Shear Madness". (Maybe the guys in the band should paint their faces blue...?)

If you can't make it tonight, go to the THUR 12/2 show.

THUR 10/28 (thru SUN 10/31)

8pm
"Choose Your Own Opera Adventure: An Original Cabaret"
at Outpost 186, 186 1/2 Hampshire St, Cambridge (Inman Sq)
FREE

In their continuing efforts to bring fresh and exciting opera productions to the people (Best-show-title-ever contender: "Goethe Your Hand Off My Heine"), OperaHub mashes classic selections of the genre into an interactive cabaret format.

Over the next 4 days in 4 locations, they're doing 5 shows that will each be different thanks to the whim of the audiences.

The other shows:

Friday

6:30pm & 8pm
at VFW George Dilboy Post, 371 Summer St, Somerville (Davis Sq)

Saturday

3pm
at Brookline Public Library, Main Branch, 361 Washington St, Brookline

Sunday

3pm
at Spontaneous Celebrations, 45 Danforth St, Jamaica Plain

If you want to reserve tickets, send an email with your name, phone number, requested performance date, and number of seats requested.

THUR 10/28

8:30pm
A Night of Halloween Covers: The Misfits, Black Flag, Face to Face, Refused, The Descendents
at Great Scott, 1222 Comm Ave, Allston
$10 / 18+

Like one of the gigs yesterday, most of these groups consist of players from various bands to bring you a "Punk Rock Halloween" organized by Born of Fire who organizes a regular night of metal (at O'Brien's?).

Schedule:

Midnight -- "Misfits"
11pm -- Black Flag"
10pm -- Face to Face"
9:15pm -- Refused" (by Jack Burton vs. David Lo Pan)
8:30pm -- Descendents"

People are "strongly encouraged" to dress up.

[Facebook]

THUR 10/28

BrownBoot as The Faces (Midnight), John Powhida as Todd Rundgren (11pm), Preacher Roe as Guided By Voices (10pm), The Gilded Splinters as The Rolling Stones (9pm)
at TT the Bear's Place, 10 Brookline St, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$9 / 18+

On the other hand, bands also do pretend-to-be-another-band gigs. This is another of the BrownBoot/Faces performances of the season. Not only does John Powhida look a bit like Todd Rundgren, I know he's a big influence on Powhida. You also get the repertoire of two of the greatest rock 'n roll bands (in their different ways).

THUR 10/28

9pm
"Fela Lives!: A Felabration"
at Milky Way Lounge/Bella Luna, 284 Amory St, Jamaica Plain (The Brewery Complex)
$5 before 10pm / $10 after

I don't list a lot of dance night events, but Fela Kuti made so much ridiculously funky music in his lifetime that I have to give a little recommendation to this traveling tribute with DJ's, live West African drumming, and film/video (like Fela documentaries, etc).

It looked a good time in this video of last year's party at All Asia Cafe.

WED 10/27: Type, Science, Wine, Bingo, Music

Get ready for a scary amount of Halloween-related cheapness through the weekend. I think Boston Band Crush did a good music round-up. I'll try to post something tonight.

Update for Wednesday: A little bird told me there's a free party at Bally Shoes (Copley Place) from 6pm to 8pm. There should be some free food & booze, and they'd like you to make a donation to Community Servings. No event page to speak of, but I believe Craig A.

I saw WFNX is throwing a "1990 Prom Party" tomorrow (10/28) at Ned Devine’s. You might still be able to RSVP, but I'm guessing it may be well "overbooked".

Update: I received an email from WFNX Promotions, and it sounded like they'd prefer to receive an email RSVP by Thursday morning. "90s costumes or prom costumes are required for entry." (This slideshow may provide inspiration.)

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WED 10/27

6:30 to 9pm
Ken Barber & Francois Rappo: "Beyond Helvetica: A look at the power of Typography": Lecture
at Room 270, Bldg 3, 33 Mass Ave (Rear), Cambridge (MIT Campus)
FREE w/ Registration

Now that Helvetica has its own movie, why not look beyond to see what else is happening in contemporary Swiss design? An American designer and a Swiss designer (who co-curated the associated exhibit) will discuss while likely being energetically hip.

I like to see the local Swiss Consulate actively promotes the cool stuff happening in their cool little Alpine nation. There is supposed to be a "post-lecture aperitif" around 7:45pm.

WED 10/27

7pm
Amir D. Aczel & Stephen Reucroft, "Present at the Creation": Lecture
at Cahners Auditorium, Museum of Science, 1 Science Park, Boston
FREE

Some people think the Large Hadron Collider at CERN (Switzerland again!) could create a miniature black hole and destroy the world. Ah, what a interesting way to go! Right?

If all goes well, the world won't be destroyed and we learn more about the beginning of the universe. Science writer Amir D. Aczel has been to CERN, and he'll discuss what's going on with physicist Stephen Reucroft (Northeastern) who is involved with the project.

It's free, so: "Seating is limited. Passes available in the Museum lobby beginning at 5:45pm."

WED 10/27

7pm
Jonathon Alsop, "Wine Lover's Devotional": Discussion & Tasting
at Brookline Booksmith, 279 Harvard St, Brookline (Coolidge Corner)
FREE

Part of being a wine snob is to enjoy making less knowledgeable people feel inferior, when the real secret is to simply enjoy what you drink.

Of course, it doesn't hurt to learn some more ways to enjoy wine like Jonathon Alsop passes on in his book. If you're over 21, you can get some hands-on lessons tonight.

(Psst, I also enjoy Gary Vaynerchuk's Winelibrary TV.)

WED 10/27

9pm
Rock N' Roll Bingo
at Milky Way Lounge / Bella Luna, 284 Amory St, Jamaica Plain (The Brewery Complex)
FREE

Bingo isn't just for your grandma anymore. If you're going to have a few drinks and you suck at pub trivia, you might as well enjoy about 6 rounds of b-i-n-g-o where you could win stuff like free drinks. Plenty of marker pens will be available.

I think there are usually free cupcakes (two Wednesdays per month, here and there), so a Halloween version might have some "gory treats".

WED 10/27

9pm
Tributes to Motorhead, Misfits, Black Sabbath, The Faces
at O'Brien's, 3 Harvard St, Allston
$8 / 18+

Feat: MotoRot (as Motorhead), The Shitfits (as Misfits), Rat Salad (as Black Sabbath), BrownBoot (as The Faces)

There are a lot of Halloween music gigs over the next few days (and a few heavy shows like this).

Most of tonight's sets are ad hoc groups with players from bands like Bang Camaro, Buried In Leather, PanzerBastard, etc). BrownBoot started out as a Faces one-off tribute, but decided to make original music together. So why not do a bunch of Halloween shows since they already know the material?

From what I've read Motorot is going to end the show by playing all of "No Sleep Til Hammersmith", which should be a good time.

WED 10/27

9:30pm
The Red River, Rodeo Church, Mornin' Old Sport
at PA's Lounge, 345 Somerville Ave, Somerville (Union Sq)
$8 / 21+

Wow, this is a good night for pop!

The Red River is a band from California who might sound simplistic at first, but it's easy to get sucked in as the different musical layers reveal themselves and you get interested in where the lyrics are going. Brian Eno likes them, so that is a big endorsement.

I don't notice many Rodeo Church gigs, but I'm quite interested in catching them live to hear more of their songs. I downloaded their song "Miserable", and I've put it on a couple mix CD's; so that's kind of an endorsement for their keyboard-driven tunes. (And they're on Team Coco.)

Speaking of wine earlier in this post, Mornin' Old Sport has a variety of sonic flavors to hit your palate. There is the instrumentation that offers a general taste of folky chamber-pop, then I hear some jazziness here and some cabaret there. Definitely a lot of good listening ahead.

TUES 10/26: Music, Film, Story, Performance

Hmm, there's more cheapness happening than your usual Tuesday. At least, it's a bit more spread out with a couple things on both sides of the river.

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TUES 10/26

6pm
Die Antwoord: Performance & Signing
at Newbury Comics, 332 Newbury Street, Boston (Back Bay)
FREE

Have you seen the crazy breakout video for the South African hip-hop duo? It was hard to tell if this was real or not. I guess it's something of a character but meant to be an artistic statement.

TUES 10/26

6:30pm to 11pm
All Things Horror Presents: Massive Horror Film Night
at Somerville Theatre, 55 Davis Square, Somerville
$7

Feat: "Ludlow", "Curious Stories, Crooked Symbols: The Short Films of Rodrigo Gudino", "Sympathy", "Night of the Punks", "Candy", and more

It is the strong of heart (and stomach?) that can handle over 4 hours of indie-horror flicks including a couple feature-length films and a bunch of shorts in what looks like a mix from tense thrillers to goofy gore.

TUES 10/26

7:30pm
Story Slam: "Horrified!"
at Johnny D's, 17 Holland St, Somerville (Davis Sq)
$8

Have you got a good personal story with a Halloween theme? If you have the winning story tonight, you'll compete in the championship in April. Last year's grand prize was a trip to Italy...

Tonight's guest co-hosts are singer-songwriter Jim Infantino (Jim's Big Ego) and harpist Deborah Henson-Conant. I'm sure they have a few good stories to tell (maybe a couple songs would be cool).

Sign-up is at 7:30pm, and the stories begin at 8pm. It's okay to just listen too.

Note: Somerville residents with a story to tell get in for free.

TUES 10/26

8pm
"Hypothesis: Matter vs. Antimatter": Performance & Music
at Midway Cafe, 3496 Washington St, Jamaica Plain
$7 / 18+

Feat: Walter Sickert & Edrie, Zayde Buti, Cathy L. Draine, TAiNA Vargas-Sosa

Since I really can't tell what's going on, I'm going to pull a direct quote:

Hypothesis takes an intelligent, theatrical approach to cabaret while blending highbrow art with a lowbrow aesthetic. Each month, a new group of artists present work based on a challenge posited by fellow scientists Prof. [rob: Madge of] Honor and Dr. [rob: Johnny] Blazes. These challenges provide an opportunity to ask questions, test new approaches, and make work that fascinates.

Based on tonight's "Matter vs. Antimatter" theme, everyone will perform something based on a personal love and a hate. Along with the performance art and music, there will be live painting. Dancing will follow at 10:30pm.

TUES 10/26

9pm
Agachiko
at Sally O'Brien's, 335 Somerville Ave, Somerville (Union Sq)
FREE

In an article from a couple years ago, Gabrielle Agachiko said that she was focusing on "playing music inspired by Nina Simone - music that she performed or that I think she could have performed."

With her rich deep voice, she's found a good spot for her talents. Expect to hear "some torch, classics, standards, and a little Broadway", most likely joined by players from groups like Either/Orchestra and Revolutionary Snake Ensemble.

TUES 10/26

9pm
"Halloweenies: An experiment in Beer, Beats and Metal"
at Enormous Room, 567 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
FREE

Metalheads probably don't hang out at the Enormous Room very often. The line to get in will probably be as long as usual, but at least there's the promise of free Narragansett from 9pm to 11pm (while supplies last).

Some of the guys from Gozu will DJ, Motherboar is going to play a live set around 10pm -- which should be quite an experience in this tiny attic.

Costumes are "strongly encouraged but not required", although there will be prizes for best costume. I think doors will open at 8pm.

TUES 10/26

9:30pm
28 Degrees Taurus, To The Wedding, Whir, Mombi
at O'Brien's, 3 Harvard St, Allston
$8 / 18+

The band that caught my eye was 28 Degrees Taurus. I remember hearing them a few years ago, and it's good to see that they keep on building their base and expanding their sound. The newer songs seem more focused yet maintain the dreamy, psychedelic fuzz that they do so well. It's mainly going to be a night filled with bands that share a shoegazey thread for different yet complementary sounds.

MON 10/25: Book, Nerd, Halloween, Rock

Hey, so we're starting off with brief blurbs again this week. Cross your fingers, 'cause progress is really being made...

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MON 10/25

6pm
Alexander McCall Smith: Lowell Lecture Series
at Rabb Lecture Hall, Boston Public Library, 700 Boylston St, Boston (Copley Sq)
FREE

When an author churns out 3 or 4 novels every year, one might think their work is lacking in quality, but Alexander McCall Smith's are popular. His "No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency" series is generally wel-received from what I know.

MON 10/25

8pm
NerdNite: "Art-Science-Food"
at Middlesex Lounge, 315 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$5 / 21+

This monthly get-together is a chance to learn about some nerdy topics while having a few drinks and listening to some tunes in between courtesy of DJ Claude Money.

Tonight's speakers:

-- Jeff Potter, "Cooking for Geeks: Science in the Kitchen"
-- Ben Jordan, "Artistic Visualization and Creative Science"

Geek cuisine and turning math into art sounds like good trivia and conversation tidbits to me.

MON 10/25

8:30pm
Doctor Gasp Halloween Spectacular
at O'Brien's, 3 Harvard St, Allston
$6 / 18+

Feat: Dan Blakeslee, Vermont Joy Parade, Creepy Very Creepy, Cemetery Blues

It's Halloween week, and the theme gigs will be plenty through the end of the month. Dan Blakeslee pulls out his "Doctor Gasp" character for a bunch of shows of creepy music around New England for children of all ages (and tonight's children have to be 18+).

I have a feeling that it's going to a night of mainly acoustic-based tunes that will lean on the eerie side.

Here's a Doctor Gasp clip from a book shop in Portland about a week ago.

MON 10/25

9:30pm
Four Eyes, Awful Man, The Boyfriends
at Charlie's Kitchen, 10 Eliot St, Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
$5 / 21+

Oh, boy. There's almost always a worthwhile cheap indie-rock show on almost any night of the week in Boston. Maybe I lean towards Charlies on Monday nights, because it's usually the only night when they have live music. Still, these are three fun, rockin' bands.

SUN 10/24: Sunday Night Off-Topic Video

Between Two Ferns with Zach Galifianakis: Sean Penn from Between Two Ferns

SUN 10/24: Rowing, Art, Lanterns, Folk

So, an afternoon in JP could include some poetry, flute music, and/or a tour at Forest Hills Cemetery followed by the Lantern Parade at Jamaica Pond.

For those who dig the vintage threads, there's "Top Shelf Flea Market II" at the Dilboy VFW Post from 10am to 4pm. Maybe you'll see something cheap, but it's like 10 thrift stores in one location. (Cash bar opens at noon.)

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SUN 10/24

8am-ish to 5pm-ish
Annual Head of the Charles Regatta
along the Charles River, Cambridge (and Boston)
FREE

Your average person person doesn't follow rowing. I think I was rooting against the Winklevoss brothers while I was watching "The Social Network". I do admire the rowers on the Charles in the morning when I'm on the Red Line, and Head of the Charles is so Boston.

I've never stayed for the day, but it makes for a good hour or two along the river. The Iraqi rowing team is even competing!

Do I have a good spot to suggest? Anywhere that's easy for you. I usually do my Red Line thing and roughly walk from the Central Sq point somewhere close to Harvard Sq.

SUN 10/24

Noon to 8pm
Drawing Marathon #9
at Mobius Art Space, 725 Harrison Ave, Boston (South End)
$10 Suggested Donation

Instead of the usual models sitting still, your subjects will be performance artists will be doing their thing that could be music, movement, etc.

Bring your art stuff, and stay as long as like (up to 8 hours)... Don't get hung on the perfect image, just draw a lot! Feel free to bring water and snacks.

You can watch videos of past "subjects".

SUN 10/24

Noon to 5pm
Dorchester Open Studios
Various Locations near Uphams Corner and Lower Mills
FREE

It's a bit spread out, and more information was available on another site, but my theory is that lower rent attracts dedicated artists. Some spots are individual artists, and some are group locations.

It also bothers me when people paint Dorchester with a broad brush; there are good neighborhoods in Dorchester. It's a big frigid' place where most of the violence happens in one square mile. Oh, and be safe...

SUN 10/24

1pm to 5pm
Sculpture Path 10th Anniversary Celebration
at Forest Hills Cemetery, 95 Forest Hills Ave, Jamaica Plain
FREE

1pm -- Family–oreinted tour Forest and lantern-making for parade
1:15pm -- Unveiling of Standing Ceres (new statue) at Lake Hibiscus
2pm -- e.e. cummings celebration -- reading followed by walk to his grave
3pm -- Peter H. Bloom flute concert in Forsyth Chapel.
3:30pm -- Sculpture Path tour with some participating artists

One can go for a walk anytime you like, but you might as well go and possibly get a little extra free entertainment.

SUN 10/24

6pm
Annual Lantern Parade
at Jamaica Pond, 507 Jamaicaway, Jamaica Plain
FREE

Even though this looks like it’s mainly a family/kids-oriented type of activity, single adults with attitude can also enjoy themselves with or without irony.

Think of it as hundreds of people walking around Jamaica Pond (not in the pond) with handmade lanterns for your pleasure. You walk around and enjoy the different views.

Just sit back and enjoy the view or make one ($5) in the afternoon.

SUN 10/24

9pm
Boris McCutcheon
at Atwoods Tavern, 877 Cambridge St, Cambridge (near Inman & Kendall Sq)
$5 / 21+

The Mass native with a deep, husky voice and killer tales that evoke the human condition is in town from New Mexico. He'll probably play solo; all the better to get the Boris McCutcheon experience.

SAT 10/23: Rowing, Art, Film, Lanterns, Rock

Hopefully I'll post more weekend cheapness after going to the barber.

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SAT 10/23 & SUN 10/24

8am-ish to 5pm-ish
Annual Head of the Charles Regatta
along the Charles River, Cambridge (and Boston)
FREE

Your average person person doesn't follow rowing. I think I was rooting against the Winklevoss brothers while I was watching "The Social Network". I do admire the rowers on the Charles in the morning when I'm on the Red Line, and Head of the Charles is so Boston.

I've never stayed for the day, but it makes for a good hour or two along the river. The Iraqi rowing team is even competing!

Do I have a good spot to suggest? Anywhere that's easy for you. I usually do my Red Line thing and roughly walk from the Central Sq point somewhere close to Harvard Sq.

SAT 10/23 & SUN 10/24

Noon to 5pm
Dorchester Open Studios
Various Locations near Uphams Corner and Lower Mills
FREE

It's a bit spread out, and more information was available on another site, but my theory is that lower rent attracts dedicated artists. Some spots are individual artists, and some are group locations.

It also bothers me when people paint Dorchester with a broad brush; there are good neighborhoods in Dorchester. It's a big frigid' place where most of the violence happens in one square mile.

If you feel like trying to get a free cup of coffee between 2pm and 3pm, there's a barista competition at Ledge Kitchen. I think this seems like you can avoid the $20 suggested donation for the Greater Boston Food Bank with a bit of deflection...

SAT 10/23

2pm
"Fantastic Planet"
at Bright Screening Room, Paramount Theatre, 559 Washington St, Boston (Downtown Crossing)
$10 / $5 students

I think I saw this French sci-fi classic on a crappy VHS when I was in high school, and I was tripping out. (Although it many not have completely been the movie...)

There are other films screening over the at the newly renovated Paramount Center, but this is a cool one to possibly see on the big screen.

SAT 10/23 & SUN 10/24

6pm
Annual Lantern Parade
at Jamaica Pond, 507 Jamaicaway, Jamaica Plain
FREE

Even though this looks like it’s mainly a family/kids-oriented type of activity, single adults with attitude can also enjoy themselves with or without irony.

Think of it as hundreds of people walking around Jamaica Pond (not in the pond) with handmade lanterns for your pleasure. You walk around and enjoy the different views.

Just sit back and enjoy the view or make one ($5) in the afternoon.

An ambitious Sunday would include a trip to Forest Hills Cemetery the 10th anniversary celebration of their Sculpture Path as well as an E.E. Cummings Celebration.

SAT 10/23

The Figgs (9pm), Sarah Levecque Band (10:30pm)
at Sally O'Brien's, 335 Somerville Ave, Somerville (Union Sq)
FREE

I'm really shocked about this show. The Figgs are one of the great American rock 'n roll bands (ask Graham Parker and Tommy Stinson who have used them as their backing bands).

I received an email that they will be playing "Sucking in Stereo" in its entirety, which is the CD that made me fall in love with them 10 years ago! Of course, that would be my fave Figgs album, but it truly is a power-pop masterpiece (in my totally subjective opinion).

I can only assume that the place will be swamped, so you might want to get there early. (I'm worried about getting shut out due to dinner plans...)

Stick around for some sweet, bluesy country-rock from Sarah Levecque.

SAT 10/23

9:30pm
Apple Betty, Mars, Kahoots, Butts
at PA's Lounge, 345 Somerville Ave, Somerville (Union Sq)
$7 -- 21+ / $10 -- 18+

I really like to offer a bit diversity in my choices, but the other rock show I liked is practically next door to The Figgs. Think about it like this: If you can't get into The Figgs, you probably won't regret paying for this kickass line-up.

Without being a cheap facsimile, Apple Betty is one of those bands that evoke the easygoing abandon of Ramones. They bash it out in their own way like three friends who decided to start a band for no better reason than doing it, and they've got that thing that makes you want to jump around the room (or at least smile and bob the head).

For some people, seeing Kahoots is how I feel about The Figgs. It's rare to see these punky-indie legends hauling themselves from the Vineyard to play gigs in Somerville. Butts are a couple punk-rock chicks from Seattle who sound like to hang out and have a good time -- and I love it. Mars flat-out rock, so dig it.

Sneak Peek: SAT 10/23

Here's a few thoughts before it gets any later...

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Have you heard the Head of the Charles is this weekend? That's why some people have nautical emblems on their windbreakers.

It's not a bad day to visit Dorchester. It's "Open Studios" weekend. Although it doesn't look like there are any participating artists in the Lower Mills area, you could swing by Ledge Kitchen for a free coffee between 2pm and 3pm at a barista competition (as long as you dodge the $20 suggested donation for the Greater Boston Food Bank).

If you've wanted to see "Fantastic Planet" on the big screen, it's at the Paramount Center ($10 / $5 students) at 2pm.

There's also the WFNX Dance Party (3pm to 9pm) that I mentioned earlier which requires a RSVP. I'm not so excited about it, but there will be free rum drinks for a while.

It's not a bad evening to visit Jamaica Plain. The annual Lantern Parade is happening around Jamaica Pond on both Saturday and Sunday. Just sit back and enjoy the view or make one ($5) in the afternoon.

(Note: This is not at Forest Hills Cemetery, but on Sunday they're having a 10th anniversary celebration of their Sculpture Path as well as an E.E. Cummings Celebration.)

There are some good music gigs, but the most amazing one is The Figgs playing at Sally O'Briens (9pm). They absolutely rock, and I think it's free!

FRI 10/22: Art, Comedy, Drama, Music

It's a bit ironic.

I went to blogger party last night, and I was excited to dish out much cheapness when I got home. Kudos to Ginger Park for pouring a big shot of Red Stag! (This restaurant does look as cool as it does in pictures.)

I'm pretty sure that the best sites belonged to the people I spoke to: Jenny, Jen, Jack, Johnny, and Michelle. One of them was really awesome, and they know who they are...

I told Johnny that I occasionally check his site to see if I've missed something cheap, and he asked if I ever mentioned it. He was disappointed when I said it was on my links list.

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FRI 10/22

5pm to 11pm
"Steampunk: Form and Function An Exhibition of Innovation, Invention and Gadgetry": Reception
at Charles River Museum of Industry & Innovation, 154 Moody St, Waltham
FREE w/ RSVP

There seems to be a mutual admiration between the Steampunk community and a museum that's located in a historic Industrial Revolution mill.

There was a steampunk festival in May, and now CRMI is the first American museum to host an exhibit (thru next May?) of this synthesis of Victorian aesthetics and science.

More than 30 pieces will be on display including iPods, computers, clocks, maybe a motorcycle, and pinball game.

I'm not sure how wild this event will be. They say, "Light refreshments will be served," but it is going on until 11pm...

You do have to RSVP by email or phone: 781-893-5410

FRI 10/22 and FRI 10/29

6pm to 8pm
"Freeky Fright Nights": Art Reception & Costume Party
at Space 242, 242 E Berkeley St, 2nd Fl, Boston (South End)
FREE w/ RSVP

I tried to let you know earlier. If you don't have a costume with you, you can still RSVP and go.

I'm guessing it's going to be more crowded tonight, so you may want to check it out next Friday anyway. I've found it's a good, semi-cultured way to start a Friday night with art and a drink or two.

FRI 10/22

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

Feat: Mike Pincus, Mike Abramson, Ryan Shea, Ryan Douglass, Erika Storm Wasser, Erika Kreutziger, Scotty Lombardo, MC Yung Homofobe, Nick Palm

How the hell did they get 2 Mikes, 2 Ryans, and 2 Erikas on the same show? That's not funny-haha, although it's funny-peculiar. I really don't think you can find more laughs for fewer dollars at a place with relatively cheap beer. And you gotta think that MC Yung Homofobe is going to be ridiculous.

Hosted by Rob Crean with guest Gary Petersen

You can even stick around and dance at The Pill for the same cover -- or go do something else with your Friday.

I don't have a copy of the Weekly Dig, but there might be a two-for-one coupon in there...

FRI 10/22

7:30pm to 9:30pm
"The Hijabi Monologues"
at Kresge Little Theater, 48 Mass Ave, Cambridge (MIT Campus)
FREE

I wonder if Eve Ensler knew that she was going to impregnate pop culture after writing the "Vagina Monologues". In the next iteration of the format, the stories of American Muslim women are shared to enlighten some people and provide sympathy for others.

A Q&A session will follow the performance.

FRI 10/22

8pm
Dramamine: The Girls of the Motion Sick, This Blue Heaven, Sarah Rabdau & the Self-Employed Assassins
at Cafe 939, 939 Boylston St, Boston (Back Bay)
$12 / All Ages

Okay, I have to write it: Dramamine is not the remedy tonight for The Motion Sick, but a shot for those who are in withdrawal. That said, this is going to be a fun show as the ladies to love The Motion Sick will dress up in drag and rock out like their male counterparts did until recently.

The awesome This Blue Heaven and Sarah Rabdau & the Self-Employed Assassins will open.

All sorts of hi-jinks may ensue, so I'm going over the $10 limit. Think of all the money you save, because they don't have a bar!

FRI 10/22

9:30pm
Wasted Talent, The Sprained Ankles, Duncan Wilder Johnson, The Full-Time Dreamers, Clay N. Ferno
at PA's Lounge, 345 Somerville Ave, Somerville (Union Sq)
$10 / 21+

There was a similar show around this time last year for Clay N. Ferno's birthday. It looked like a fun time to have a clash between hip-hop and punk. Both the Wasted Talent and The Sprained Ankles bring a sense of genre to the table.

You've got extra rock with The Full-Time Dreamers as well as Clay N. Ferno and Duncan Wilder Johnson giving spoken-word a metal sensibility.

10/22 & 10/23: RSVP for Art & Dance Parties

Here a couple free things that require an RSVP. Coincidentally, they are a Weekly Dig party and a Phoenix party...

More is coming.

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FRI 10/22 (and FRI 10/29)

6pm to 8pm
"Freeky Fright Nights": Art Reception & Costume Party
at Space 242, 242 E Berkeley St, 2nd Fl, Boston (South End)
FREE w/ RSVP

Feat: Mister Reusch, Amanda Clarke, Derek Ring, Shannon Orcutt, Alex Carlson, Felisia Sainz, Tom Torrey, Walter Sickert, Nick Demakes, Scott Murry, Scott Holloway, Nicole Johnson, Eric Bornstein, Bonnie Thomas

I've been to Space 242 receptions, and it's always been a healthy-sized crowd, but not two crowded. They added a second Friday in hopes of spreading out the attendance.

There will be a bunch of creepy-cool art at these "Halloween Ho-Downs". (I've seen some good stuff on sale for $20!) You don't have to wear a costume, although it's encouraged on both Fridays. When you RSVP, your name should be on the list for both weeks.

My best location description is that it's in the same building as Medieval Manor.

SAT 10/23

3pm to 9pm
WFNX Dance Party
at Royale, 279 Tremont St, Boston (Theatre District)
FREE w/ RSVP / 21+

Feat: DJ Knife, DJ Brek.One, DJ Frank White

It's a weird time for a dance party... And the bottleneck entrance to Royale is a pain in the arse...

On the other hand, there will be complimentary Bacardi cocktails from 4pm to 5:30pm.

There will be performances by the Celtics Dancers and the debut of the Bacardi dance team (sounds something like the Celtics Dancers).

THUR 10/21: War, Food, Music

For the record, I did walk along a stretch of the Charles last night. I didn't see the tree in the photo below, but the sunset was wonderful.

FYI: Am feeeling a bit stranger then usual today, and I don't know if it's affected the post.

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THUR 10/21

6pm
"How can wars of the present and the experience of war be adequately represented?": Panel Discussion
at Carpenter Center, 24 Quincy St, Cambridge (Harvard campus)
FREE

Feat: Peggy Ahwesh, Kota Ezawa, Harun Farocki, William E. Jones, Lamia Joreige, Wael Shawky, Antje Ehmann

That seemed like a good question. I'd like to know the answer. The curators and several of the artists who have pieces in the corresponding exhibit that opens tonight, "The Image In Question. War -- Media -- Art", are going to talk about it before the reception (wine and cheese potential).

I assume the discussion will take place in the auditorium on the lower level.

THUR 10/21

6pm
Madhur Jaffrey, "At Home with Madhur Jaffrey": Discussion
at Brookline Booksmith, 279 Harvard St, Brookline (Coolidge Corner)
FREE

If you saw this listed somewhere else as a ticketed event at the Coolidge Corner Theatre, it has changed. I'm guessing it'll be crowded, but you can try ("seating will begin at 5:30pm").

The topic is still Indian cuisine for cooks who don't want to spend a lot of time.

THUR 10/21

Mount Peru (11:45pm), Mr. Sister (10:50pm), Audrey Ryan Band (9:55pm), Clara Bones (9:05pm), Poison Control Center (8:20pm)
at TT the Bear's Place, 10 Brookline St, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$8

Wow, this is a darn good mix of power-pop and forward-thinking folky/rootsy rock. It's a quality line-up all the way through that includes two of my faves: Mr. Sister and Audrey Ryan.

When I say get there early, I mean it -- and you really shouldn't miss The Poison Control Center, a quirky indie-rock band from Iowa who might just tour around by getting tacked onto other gigs like this except they opened for Pavement last month.

THUR 10/21

The Good Pour (10:30pm), The Birds of Play (9pm)
at Sally O'Brien's, 335 Somerville Ave, Somerville (Union Sq)
FREE / 21+

After years of seeing her sing back-up with Josh Lederman, I'm so happy to hear Kay McKinstry belting them out front and center. With a voice that sounds like an angel who parties like the devil, it's torchy, twangy alt-country/Americana at its best.

I've also enjoyed the music of James Christensen, but I don't think I've heard this project, The Birds of Play, and I was happy to hear fresh blast of tunes; my gut reaction was "Pixies-like with volume dialed-down".

FREE: Walking Along the Esplanade

I've been watching as I cross the Longfellow Bridge, and the trees are turning quite nicely.

This picture above is a bit too red for me to believe it, but I'm going to walk along the Esplanade and enjoy whatever local colors of Autumn I find.

This is best time in New England. There are no roses to smell, so just enjoy the Fall flavor in the air and the lovely vistas.

WED 10/20: Talk & Film

I was going to keep it short today, and now it's even shorter.

Unfortunately, the Girlfriends' gig at O'Brien's has been cancelled due to car trouble with the two other bands who are touring from Kansas. Check Girlfriends out though, because they're pretty damn awesome.

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WED 10/20

6pm
Sheila Bair, "Ending Too Big To Fail: The FDIC & Financial Reform": Lecture
at JFK Forum, Littauer Bldg, 79 JFK St, Cambridge (Harvard Kennedy School)
FREE

When I would hear the terms like "too big to fail" about companies like Bank of America, it used to give comfort that they wouldn't fail.

In reality, it doesn't mean that they were run in a responsible manner -- it just means that the government will help them no matter what risky decisions they make.

Sheila Bair, Chairwoman of the FDIC may have some constructive points (which will likely be slow in being implemented).

WED 10/20

6pm
Ethan Gilsdorf, "Fantasy Freaks and Gaming Geeks": Reading/Presentation
at Boston Room, 1st Fl, Boston Public Library, 700 Boylston St, Boston (Copley Sq)
FREE

I went to one of Ethan Gilsdorf's reading last year near the original release date of his book, "Fantasy Freaks and Gaming Geeks: An Epic Quest for Reality Among Role Players, Online Gamers, and Other Dwellers of Imaginary Realms". And now it's available on paperback.

Since there are too many books in my queue, I haven't read it yet. However attending his reading did make me want to read it.

Yes, there's a lot of geekiness along the journey from discovering Dungeons & Dragons as a kid to investigating the wide world of current gaming (online, LARP, etc). There is a lot of real emotion and articulate examination of why people like to play.

Tonight's reading is supposed to include a slideshow, and I wouldn't be surprised if some other fun may be up his sleeve.

WED 10/20

7pm
"Battleship Potemkin"
at Harvard Film Archive, Carpenter Center, 24 Quincy St, Cambridge (Harvard campus)
FREE

Yes, it's a Russian silent film made over 80 years ago. It's also happens to be Sergei Eisenstein's masterpiece and still one of the most influential films of all time for its groundbreaking editing techniques.

The story (a Soviet propaganda film to demonstrate how oppressive the Czars were) may not be the most compelling part of the viewing experience. On the bright side, the only subtitle reading is during the title cards when even Russians are reading.