SAT 3/31: Night Cheapness

It's only a couple bucks more than the CTB ceiling, but there's also an excellent show downstairs at the Middle East with one of our best local rock bands Kingsley Flood with Thick as Thieves, Spirit Kid, and Tallahassee.

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SAT 3/31

5pm
Blastfest 5
at YMCA Theater, 820 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$10 / All Ages

Feat: The Needy Visions, Streight Angular, Gracious Calamity, Hunnie Bunnies, Manners, Shira E, Nickel & Dime Band, Casey Rocheteau, Brian S. Ellis, Peace Loving, many more

No way am I going to list the whole schedule (on Facebook) and find links for all of the bands. About 30 performers are going one after the other in approximately 10 minutes bursts over 5 hours or so.

I predict a day of cool, positive, mega-fun as the Whitehaus folks take their JP house-party blueprint and make their annual trek across the Charles with a cornucopia of folk, rock, spoken-word, experimental music, and some stuff that seeps around these descriptors.

Check out some photos from a couple years ago, and you get the idea of good vibes radiating in the room.

SAT 3/31 (and SUN 4/1, WED 4/4 thru 4/7)

7:30pm
"Beckett Shorts"
at Zero Church Street, below First Parish Church, 0 Church St, Cambridge
FREE w/ Registration

Feat: "Come and Go", "Play", "Not I", "Footfalls", "Rough for Radio II", "Quad", "Act Without Words II"

Maybe Samuel Beckett isn't everyone's cup of tea, but I dig his existentialist dark humor. Some of these short plays have been described as "humorous", "neurotic" and "dystopian".

Even when it's too avant-garde to feel like one can even understand, that's when our interpretation is completely valid.

I think it's cool that he would drive a young (but still large) Andre the Giant to school.

Note: Tickets are complimentary, however an advanced ticket reservation is required.

SAT 3/31

Coyote Kolb (Midnight), Ten Foot Polecats (11pm), Rollover Baby (10pm), Boo City (9pm)
at O'Brien's, 3 Harvard St, Allston
$8 / 21+

This joint will be jumping! It's pretty darn hard not to like Coyote Kolb's fuzzed-out, twangy, alt-country blues jam. And they have a new CD.

Dig Ten Foot Polecats' sweaty, greasy deep-Mississippi blues mess and the sweet R&B/soul-meets-anything-that-rocks-or-swings of Rhode Island's Boo City who should come to Boston more often. Rollover Baby is probably blues in some way, but I've decided I'm not listening to bands that only have a MySpace page anymore.

SAT 3/31

9:30pm
New Highway Hymnal, Mount Peru, Great Elk, Chris North Dream Quartet
at Middle East - Upstairs, 472 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$10 / 18+


Even when I'm not expecting to hear Mount Peru, their rootsy-poppy goodness catches my attention like when I was listening to a Boston music sampler on Bandcamp (free download). I forgot they were the last song, and I had to switch windows in one of those "Who is that?!" moment.

It's going to be a darn good night with a lot of indie-folk and psych-rock. I saw that New Highway Hymnal played on Wednesday, and it seems like they're out playing a lot; even NHH's latest recorded stuff is way better than the first songs I heard.

In case you haven't clicked the link, let the song bloom:

SAT 3/31: Day Cheapness

Hey, what else are you going to do? Sit around and watch TV?

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SAT 3/31

11am to 1pm
Heidi Reynolds, "The Rolling Gallery Project": Closing Reception
at Arts at the Armory, 191 Highland Ave, Somerville (Spring Hill)
FREE

If you do want to get rid of some stuff, it can be in the service of art. Heidi Reynolds encourages you to bring "works of art, objects, and personal mementos" or whatever to join her giant ball o' art. She said at a previous stop:

The ball is a manifestation of letting go and re-imagining. How can letting go of objects from the past encourage us to re-envision the present?

The Rolling Gallery will be rolling into Union Square in a couple months.

SAT 3/31 (and SUN 4/1)

Various Times
Boston Underground Film Festival
at Brattle Theatre, 40 Brattle St, Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
$10 per screening

Saturday Schedule:

12:45pm -- "Saturday Morning-After Cartoons"
2:45pm -- "Happily Never After"
5:15pm -- "Where the Music’s At"
7pm -- "Manborg"
9:15pm -- "Inside Lara Roxx"
10pm -- Karaoke Party
11:55pm -- "Midnight Transgressions"

Like a good alternative film fan, the day begins slightly before 1pm with 88 minutes of twisted animation where they wouldn't mind if people show up in pajamas and bathrobes. They say, "Donuts will be served."

Later in the day, there's a program of cool music videos from near *Andre Obin, Box 5, Count Zero, Darling Pet Munkee) and far (Lil Jon, M83, Pharoahe Monch ft. Jill Scott) and points in between.

Besides "Manborg", today's features lean towards human drama in the fictional tale of a dude finding the teenage son he didn't know about (and not really being the ideal father) and the documentary of a woman whose short career in porn ends as badly as possible.

Of course, the midnight shorts are edgy compared to the other programming, so enter at your own risk.

SAT 3/31

2:30pm, 7:30pm
"Glengarry Glen Ross"
at Loeb Drama Center, Experimental Theatre, 64 Brattle St, Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
FREE

I caught one of last week's performances and enjoyed seeing the theatre version, however I couldn't stop comparing it to the movie.

It seemed like some of the talented, young actors might have been channeling those portrayals, but it was a good experience (especially for the price).

I strongly suggest reserving tickets ahead of time, although we were able to get in without sending an email.

SAT 3/31

"The Hurt Locker" (3pm) & "Weapon Of War" (5:30pm): Screening & Discussion
at Room 120, Bldg 6, 182 Memorial Drive (Rear), Cambridge (MIT campus)
FREE

Wow, it's been an eventful Women's History Month. Hasn't it...? I'm not sure, but maybe I was still recovering from a wild Black History Month. Believe it or not, we conclude the 2nd annual Women Take the Reel Film Festival today.

In my naivete, it shouldn't be a big deal that an Oscar-winning war film was directed by a woman. It might be a bigger deal that an Oscar-winning war film was actually good. See the "The Hurt Locker" if you haven't already.

The hourlong documentary (directed by women) about sexual violence to women in the Democratic Republic of Congo can't be an easy viewing -- and not because it's in French & Swahili with subtitles. There will be a Q&A and reception afterwards.

SAT 3/31

4pm to 5:30pm
The Boston Rio+20 Project
at Berklee Performance Center, 136 Mass Ave, Boston
FREE w/ RSVP

This isn't a concert for young people, it's a concert from young people for everyone. There is something called the Rio+20 Global Youth Music Contest that's happening in Rio de Janeiro later this year.

Maybe one of these groups affiliated with various youth organizations will get a chance to perform at the international shindig. At the least, you can see the future of Boston's music scene...

SAT 3/31

5pm
Blastfest 5
at YMCA Theater, 820 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$10 / All Ages

Feat: The Needy Visions, Streight Angular, Gracious Calamity, Hunnie Bunnies, Manners, Shira E, Nickel & Dime Band, Casey Rocheteau, Brian S. Ellis, Peace Loving, many more

No way am I going to list the whole schedule (on Facebook) and find links for all of the bands. About 30 performers are going one after the other in approximately 10 minutes bursts over 5 hours or so.

I predict a day of cool, positive, mega-fun as the Whitehaus folks take their JP house-party blueprint and make their annual trek across the Charles with a cornucopia of folk, rock, spoken-word, experimental music, and some stuff that seeps around these descriptors.

Check out some photos from a couple years ago, and you get the idea of good vibes radiating in the room.

SAT 3/31 (and SUN 4/1, WED 4/4 thru 4/7)

7:30pm
"Beckett Shorts"
at Zero Church Street, below First Parish Church, 0 Church St, Cambridge
FREE w/ Registration

Feat: "Come and Go", "Play", "Not I", "Footfalls", "Rough for Radio II", "Quad", "Act Without Words II"

Maybe Samuel Beckett isn't everyone's cup of tea, but I dig his existentialist dark humor. Some of these short plays have been described as "humorous", "neurotic" and "dystopian".

Even when it's too avant-garde to feel like one can even understand, that's when our interpretation is completely valid.

I think it's cool that he would drive a young (but still large) Andre the Giant to school.

Note: Tickets are complimentary, however an advanced ticket reservation is required.

FRI 3/30: Film, Theatre, Music

A few film choices, a few theatre choices, and a few music choices -- not bad...

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FRI 3/30

Various Times
"Free Film Fridays"
at Mugar Omni Theater, Museum of Science, 1 Science Park, Boston
FREE

"Tickets are given on a first-come, first-served basis on day of the event at the box office... limited to (2) shows per person per date."

It's the last "Free Friday" and the schedule has the same program at 4pm, 5pm, 8pm, 9pm: "Tornado Alley" with "New England Time Capsule".

BTW: You can't show up 5 minutes beforehand and expect to get tickets.

FRI 3/30 (thru SUN 4/1)

Various Times
Boston Underground Film Festival
at Brattle Theatre, 40 Brattle St, Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
$10 per screening / $75 festival pass

Friday Schedule:

5:45pm -- "Look at this F*cking Shorts" Program
7:30pm -- "Excision"
9:30pm -- "Smuggler"
11:55pm -- "Rock n' Roll Nightmare"

The annual BUFF is my probably favorite Boston film festival (that are coming in the near future), because they have a nice mix of films that might go to independent cinemas and other films that are really weird.

Whether you go for some shorts, a gorey high school romp, Japanese crime drama, or a cheesy horror classic; you're going to see something that will probably insprire more discussion than "Hunger Games".

FRI 3/30 (thru SUN 4/1, WED 4/4 thru 4/7)

7:30pm
"Beckett Shorts"
at Zero Church Street, below First Parish Church, 0 Church St, Cambridge
FREE w/ Registration

Feat: "Come and Go", "Play", "Not I", "Footfalls", "Rough for Radio II", "Quad", "Act Without Words II"

Maybe Samuel Beckett isn't everyone's cup of tea, but I dig his existentialist dark humor. Some of these short plays have been described as "humorous", "neurotic" and "dystopian".

Even when it's too avant-garde to feel like one can even understand, that's when our interpretation is completely valid.

I think it's cool that he would drive a young (but still large) Andre the Giant to school.

Note: Tickets are complimentary, however an advanced ticket reservation is required.

FRI 3/30 (and SAT 3/31)

Various Times
"Glengarry Glen Ross"
at Loeb Drama Center, Experimental Theatre, 64 Brattle St, Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
FREE

FRI 3/30 -- 7:30pm
SAT 3/31 -- 2:30pm, 7:30pm

I caught one of last week's performances and enjoyed seeing the theatre version, however I couldn't stop comparing it to the movie.

It seemed like some of the talented, young actors might have been channeling those portrayals, but it was a good experience (especially for the price).

I strongly suggest reserving tickets ahead of time, although we were able to get in without sending an email.

FRI 3/30

9pm
Madame Psychosis "Fan Boy" Release Party
at Radio, Moe's Lounge downstairs, 379 Somerville Ave, Somerville (Union Sq)
$5 / 21+

Schedule:
Midnight -- Brendan Boogie
11pm -- Madame Psychosis
10pm -- Jessica Sun Lee
9pm -- Kristen Ford Band
8:30pm -- Speaker for the Dead

One of the funny things about Radio is that there's a separate performance space downstairs -- that one passes through on your way to the bathroom -- and it's known as Moe's Lounge. (Moe likely be proud considering his tavern.)

It's the return of Madame Psychosis, the rapping alter-ego of a local writer-musician, and She's an 'extroverted' personality who raps with stories and meanings -- like the old-school hip-hoppers used to do it.

Join her and rockin', folkin' friends for a bunch of good tunes and good times. There's a suggestion that a raffle could include the headliner's clothes...

Or you could dance upstairs.

FRI 3/30

Young Adults (12:15am), Soccer Mom (11:15pm), Autochrome (10:15pm), Night Fruit (9:15pm)
at TT the Bear's Place, 10 Brookline St, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$10

There were a couple write-ups for this gig that caught my eye, and others seem to think that Autochrome is the main draw, and they're the least interesting band in my opinion. There's nothing particularly bad, except I like the other 3 bands a bit more. That probably means they will be super-popular! I guess I would use the term shoegaze for all of the bands, except I think Young Adults are way punkier than that.

Rav from WZBC's "Flyweight" will between before and between sets.

FRI 3/30

10pm
"The Pill" w/ Casey Desmond & Stereo Telescope
at Great Scott, 1222 Comm Ave, Allston
$5 /21+

It's full-on dance party tonight. Casey Desmond and Stereo Telescope have been on a mini-tour together to SXSW and back, so they'll probably want to electro-pop in front of a Boston crowd. Everyone knows New Englanders are the most uninhibited people in the country...

Go early to laugh and stick around.

FRI 3/30

10pm
Jenny Dee & The Deelinquents
at Toad, 1912 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Porter Sq)
FREE

Although they played last Friday at Toad, I'm not sure how Jenny Dee & The Deelinquents fit in that corner. Forget about the girl-group-soul revue fitting on the stage! Maybe they're scaling back the horns or the back-up singers. As long as Jenny Dee is singing, you will be blown away.

Even if the bar capacity is significantly impacted...

FRI 3/30

10:30pm
Muck & The Mires
at Plough & Stars, 912 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$5-ish / 21+

It's not much of an exaggeration to say Muck & The Mires are the best garage-rock band in the country. Little Steven had a national competition a few years back, and they won. They truly kick ass in what sounds like a Merseybeat band that love The Ramones.

Friday Calendar

Lately the weekends have not been my strongest effort, but I expect that to change.

Here is the calendar until a full post is up.

THUR 3/29: Mexico, Ireland, Ball, Hop, Film, Music

I love when there's a variety of options... And you can add a dash of philanthropy while keeping relatively cheap fun.

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THUR 3/29

6pm
"Music of the US-Mexico Borderlands": Performance & Talk
at Tsai Auditorium, CGIS South Bldg, 1730 Cambridge St, Cambridge (Harvard campus)
FREE

Feat: Dr. Loco aka Jose Cuellar, Ph.D.

One might expect Dr. Loco to have a degree in Tex-Mex boogie. Despite years playing in rock bands, el bueno doctor is professor emeritus of Latina/Latino Studies at San Francisco State University.

With musical performance and storytelling -- and probably some cleverly disguised academic analysis -- Prof. Cuellar/Loco will take you on a journey along the border.

"A reception will follow."

THUR 3/29

6:30pm to 8:30pm
Irish Dance & Ceili w/ Seamus Connolly & Friends
at Gasson Hall, 140 Comm Ave, Chestnut Hill (BC campus)
FREE

In a different geographical direction but with a similar desire to inform and enlighten, Seamus Connolly is the Director of BC's Irish Studies Music, Song & Dance program. He also happens to be the only 10-time Irish National Fiddle champion.

Keep in mind this is a "dance & ceili", so be a festive listener at the least.

THUR 3/29

7pm
"The Dead Authors Ball"
at The Burren, 247 Elm St, Somerville (Davis Sq)
FREE / Donations welcome

Feat: Second Line Social Aid & Pleasure Society Brass Band, Anthony Scibelli

Enjoy the horn music, the comedy, and the facial hair.

At the final check-in for 826 Boston's annual Moustache-a-Thon, people are encouraged to "come dressed as your favorite deceased wordsmith." That request can be broadly interpreted such as, "I'm business-casual Ernest Hemingway..."

There are a couple used-clothing stores nearby to make an ad-hoc costume, or you could give that money to a non-profit that offers tutoring for young people to encourage and improve their writing.

THUR 3/29

7:30pm to 2am
Annual BHCHP Sock Hop
at Cask 'n Flagon, 62 Brookline Ave, Boston (Kenmore Sq)
$5 or a package of new socks

Isn't it a pleasant moment when you first put on a new pair of socks? It must be even more satisfying if you've been wearing the same pair for weeks (or months)...

The Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program needs socks, so why not have a 50's style dance party to collect a bunch of them -- or money to buy socks.

There's trivia from 7:30pm to 9pm, then dancing until closing time.

THUR 3/29 (thru SUN 4/1)

Various Times
Boston Underground Film Festival
at Brattle Theatre, 40 Brattle St, Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
$10 per screening / $75 festival pass

Thursday Schedule:

8pm -- "John Dies at the End"
10pm -- Opening Night Party

I haven't felt the Buzz that often accompanies the annual BUFF, and it seems like the schedule is slightly abbreviated. I still think this is my favorite Boston film festival (that are coming in the near future), because they have a nice mix of films that might go to independent cinemas and other films that are really weird.

The opening movie is based on a humorous horror novel, and it has a good cast including Paul Giamatti. Can a couple slackers save the world from an alien invasion? Why not -- although I get the feeling that someone doesn't survive...

If you go to the screening, they should say where the party will be. Various programs will be shown through Sunday

THUR 3/29

9:30pm
Franc Graham Band, Nash Satterfield
at Milky Way Lounge / Bella Luna, 284 Amory St, Jamaica Plain (The Brewery Complex)
$7 / 21+

For a past gig, I was going to compare Franc Graham to Lucinda Williams and wondered if that was an unfair comparison. Then I read her bio where she mentions how Lucinda heard her stuff and invited Franc to open for her on tour (unfortunately didn't have a happy ending). Still, she writes some cool, earthy songs with a cleaner vocal style. Yes, that is Morphine's Jerome Deupree on drums.

"Nash Satterfield" sounds like the name of a person to me -- like a guy with an acoustic guitar. It's actually a group. With a female singer. With a beautiful voice. And their stuff is a hopped-up, swingy alt-country that careens between the speakers.

THUR 3/29

The Mallett Brothers Band (10:45pm), OldJack (9:30pm), Monophonic (8:30pm)
at Church, 69 Kilmarnock St, Boston (Fenway)
$10 / 21+

A show with OldJack playing is a show worth hearing.

I've liked OldJack from the first time I saw them, and I keep on liking them more as time goes on. What hit me as a rock-soul revue has gradually become something earthier with a soulful heart. Monophonic kicks things off with straight-up 'pub rock' (their words but applicable). If the rootsy Mallett Brothers don't tickle your monkey bone, you don't have to stay.

WED 3/28: Photos, Talk, Music

Yes, there is a nice batch of cheapness to choose from tonight. Tomorrow doesn't look so bad either.

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WED 3/28

5pm to 8pm
"101 Photographs for Freedom of the Press": Opening Reception
at Main Gallery, Art Institute of Boston, 700 Beacon St, Boston (Kenmore Sq)
FREE

In the era of citizen journalism and unconfirmed videos, it remains that there are many committed photojournalists that are casting a third-party eye to the world's danger zones.

They're also capturing the majority of the most evocative images -- about 100 of the last 70 years can be seen in this exhibit to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Reporters Without Borders (on view through SUN 4/22).

The question is: Can the Consulate General of France sponsor a reception without wine?

Susan Meiselas, Perter van Agtmael, and Antoine d'Agata of Magnum Photos should be there, because they're speaking at Lesley tomorrow.

WED 3/28

7pm
"A Tribute to Anthony Shadid": Panel Discussion
at Harvard Book Store, 1256 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
FREE

Feat: Susan Chira (NY Times), Charlie Sennott (GlobalPost), Phil Bennett (Frontline)

Moderated by Alex Jones (Harvard Shorenstein Center)

Speaking of journalists in the danger zone, Anthony Shadid was one of those unflappable foreign correspondents who would not let a kidnapping in Libya deter him from heading to Syria less than a year later. It's hard to believe he was felled by an asthma attack on a horse.

Some of his former colleagues of the Pulitzer Prize-winner will gather share their recollections.

WED 3/28

8pm
Birdsongs of the Mesozoic (9:30pm), Goli (8pm)
at Johnny D's, 17 Holland St, Somerville (Davis Sq)
$10 / 21+

When I think of Birdsongs of the Mesozoic, it's that Roger Miller (and Martin Swope) co-founded this group after Mission of Burma broke up -- and he hasn't even been in the band for years. It turns out Miller will be joining his former chamber-rock group for tonight's gig.

As a cello-marimba duo, Goli leans more towards the 'chamber' if applying the chamber-rock label. It's pretty interesting stuff however you slice or box it.

without a doubt. I thought they weren't together anymore, but they've been studying at NEC -- where they must rock more than any other chamber ensemble.

WED 3/28

9pm
FNX Alternatour
at Brighton Music Hall, 158 Brighton Ave, Allston
FREE w/ RSVP / 21+

Feat: Tribes, New Highway Hymnal, Ms Mr

When I last checked, you could still register for the free gig. It seems like Tribes are a medium-tier band in the UK. They've got a heavy-guitar, alternative-rock sound and have been sharing gigs with The Kooks, Kaiser Chiefs, and the like.

Local psychedelic rockers New Highway Hymnal add a nice wrinkle to a line-up that curiously includes an NYC electro-pop duo. Vive la variété!

WED 3/28

9pm
Major Stars, Balaclavas, White Pages
at Radio, 379 Somerville Ave, Somerville (Union Sq)
$8 / 21+

The Major Stars played multiple Wednesdays in November at Precinct down the street, so the mojo in Union Square must be right for their noisy fuzz that tingles my spine -- maybe yours as well?

The White Pages punk things out to kick it off, and Houston's Balaclavas charmingly thumbs their collective at pleasing melodies with feedback guitars and a general dark attitude.

WED 3/28

9pm
Hallelujah the Hills, You Won't, The Milkman's Union, Boy Without God
at Great Scott, 1222 Comm Ave, Allston
$9 / 18+

Yeah, I'm a sucker for indie/folk/rock groups -- and good ones are stacked one on top of the other at this gig.

It's not too far off to say that CTB faves Hallelujah The Hills and You Won't have what it takes to be bands that random friends will be raving about in the future. They both have some great tunes that prick up the ears, and both generally keep things clever without sounding like there's a lot of effort. Boy Without God is usually one boy with a deep singing voice and passion that I find rather effective.

I'm not sure what it is about The Milkman's Union's quirky twang that hasn't overwhelmed me yet, but it could happen as I listen more often. (The readers of Deli New England are fans.)

Off-Topic: Wealth + Ethics = Wealthics?

A guy named Tony wrote and asked if I would share a graphic that he & his team designed on ethical behavior and wealth. (It seems like he comes from an accounting background.)

They're looking for your feedback, so I won't give my opinion that might color your judgement. Of course, click it for the full-size image.

If you leave comments, I'll let him know to check them.

By the way, Occupy Boston is still active even though they don't camp out anymore.


Created by: AccountingDegreeOnline.net

Tuesday & Wednesday Calendar

No offense to Tuesday cheapness, but Wednesday is looking generally stronger.

Tonight has a bit of poetry, a couple film screenings, etc... It would be nice to hear Bill Murray talk to SNL writer James Downey at the Ford Hall Forum, but chances of getting in depend on how early you want to get in line.

MON 3/26: Schmidt & Rock

It looks like the New England Real Ale Exhibition won't qualify as a 'cheap thrill' in April. The first kick-off party has no cover charge, but it'll probably be crowded downstairs at Redbones (5pm to 7pm) as they will have a few casks available and free appetizers.

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MON 3/26

7pm
Louis Begley, "Schmidt Steps Back": Reading
at Brookline Booksmith, 279 Harvard St, Brookline (Coolidge Corner)
FREE

The third novel in the "About Schmidt" has arrived, and the author is in town for a reading and booksigning.

MON 3/26

8:30pm
Viva Viva, Creaturos, Magic Magic
at Middlesex Lounge, 315 Mass Ave, Cambridge (near Central Sq)
$5 / 21+

As usual, a bunch of Boston bands went down to SXSW including Viva Viva. This could be the beginning of return shows. The awesomeness flows through the bill with Magic Magic (who went to Auston a couple years ago) and Creaturos (who might go next year).

MON 3/26

9pm
The Black Cheers, The Grinds, The Goddamn Draculas
at Charlie's Kitchen, 10 Eliot St, Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
$5 / 21+

Go for the guaranteed garage-punk goodness of The Grinds, and stay for the other bands in the same alley with veteran players and cool names.

SUN 3/25: Sunday Night On-Topic Video

Check out these trailers for Boys From Nowhere: The Story of Boston's Garage Punk Uprising. Hopefully they'll finish the project soon.

Sunday Calendar

The Cloud Nothings gig is probably $12 at this point, but I put it on their anyway.

I might have a review for next week...

SAT 3/24: Night Cheapness

Like I said earlier: I would recommend screenings of the Irish Film Festival, but the films I like have sold out.

Maybe you want to see classic "The Quiet Man" tomorrow and/or the new documentary about the film directly afterwards.

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SAT 3/24

7pm
Chris Matthews, "Jack Kennedy: Elusive Hero": Reading
at Brookline Booksmith, 279 Harvard St, Brookline (Coolidge Corner)
FREE

Irish-American Catholic guy who graduated from Holy Cross Chris Matthews is usually more entertaining when he's excited and outraged. Some may enjoy his reverential side as he talks about this new book about President Kennedy.

Since it's only a couple blocks away from the Booksmith, the JFK National Historic Site will open out of season from 1pm to 5pm today.

SAT 3/24

7pm
Dimitris Dalakoglou, "Revolt and Crisis in Greece": Discussion
at Lucy Parsons Center, 358A Centre St, Jamaica Plain
FREE

Sussex University professor Dimitris Dalakoglou has been active in the Occupy London group and has co-edited an anthology that analyzes the protest movement in Greece since the powder keg was lit in 2008.

The anarchist, dissident perspective is not heard through most news resources, so this is one of those chances to hear it.

SAT 3/24

9pm
Darling Pet Munkee vs The New Frustrations
at Store 54, Basement, 16 Harvard Ave, Allston
Donations Accepted / All Ages

The gig has been dubbed 'Old School Vs New School'. I'm pretty sure The New Frustrations are representing 'Old School' with straight garage awesomeness with a nods to the mod sound.

I'm a Michael J Epstein fan from The Motion Sick on, so I'm rooting for 'New School'. Darling Pet Munkee combines the bass-drum duo Do Not Forsake Me Oh My Darling with killer guitarist Cathy Capozzi of Axemunkee. The result is possibly my favorite Epstein project: the songs are often about things sold in old comic books, the band is rocking out, and there is more character in MJE's vocals to match the tunes.

Since this is not a traditional venue, "All are welcome to bring refreshments". This should be a good time!

SAT 3/24

9:30pm
Stephie Coplan & the Pedestrians, Lost Romance, Mattison, The Four Point Restraints
at Great Scott, 1222 Comm Ave, Allston
$10 / 21+

Maybe you've heard the wry piano-pop of Stephie Coplan, since her song "Jerk" has been getting some attention and radio play. They're capping a night of solid indie-rock including Mattison who only had one song on their Bandcamp, but it was friggin' sexy paean to NY firemen. You go, girls.

SAT 3/24: Day Cheapness

I would recommend screenings of the Irish Film Festival, but the films I like have sold out.

Maybe you want to see classic "The Quiet Man" tomorrow and/or the new documentary about the film directly afterwards.

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SAT 3/24

1pm to 5pm
COF@15 Performing Arts Festival
at Various Colleges in the Fenway
FREE

It would be nice to say this is going to be an eye-opening trek along a Fenway row of colleges, but I think it's going to be a slightly disorganized series of 100 performances at 15 locations (at 6 schools). Some time between yesterday afternoon and this morning, a schedule has been posted.

As an example, a rather good Emmanuel College-based Boston blog barely knows anything about this thing.

Go if you feel like poking around Wheelock College, Simmons College, Emmanuel College, MassArt, & Wentworth Institute of Technology. Maybe take a walk around the Fens and dart out occasionally.

(There may be a roving flash mob around 3pm.)

SAT 3/24

2pm, 4pm
"A Celebration of 10 Years of Science Writing at MIT": Symposium
at Room 141, Stata Center, 32 Vassar St, Cambridge (MIT campus)
FREE

2pm to 3:30pm
"Attention and Memory: How the Brain Does What It Does"

4pm to 5:30pm
"Fifty Years Ahead: Imagining Nanotechnology, Quantum Computing, & Molecular Biology in 2062"

At first, I was wondering if there was a program for sci-fi writers at MIT, then I read it again and was slightly disappointed when it's actually writing about the scientific world in a way that everyone can appreciate.

Talking about writing may be as interesting as miming about architecture, but several professors will be on each panel so you might learn something anyway.

SAT 3/24 (thru SAT 3/31)

Various Times
"Glengarry Glen Ross"
at Loeb Drama Center, Experimental Theatre, 64 Brattle St, Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
FREE

SAT 3/24 -- 2:30pm, 7:30pm
SUN 3/25 -- 2:30pm
FRI 3/30 -- 7:30pm
SAT 3/31 -- 2:30pm, 7:30pm

As someone who only occasionally sees live theatre, I envision David Mamet's play set in a vicious sales office (that might be a microcosm of larger society) as the movie with the all-star cast of old guys like Pacino, Lemmon, Arkin, Spacey, Baldwin, etc.

Why not see how the Harvard-Radcliffe Dramatic Club handles it? You don't have to pay, and you might be able to reserve tickets by email. (It would be good idea to give your name, preferred performance date, and number of tickets.)

SAT 3/24

3pm to 4:30pm
WICF 2012 Headliners Talk Comedy: "Tales from the Biz and More"
at Cambridge YWCA, 7 Temple St, Cambridge (Central Sq)
FREE

Feat: Carol Leifer, Wendy Liebman, Erin Jackson, Kelly MacFarland, Erin Judge, more

Moderator: Joyce Kulhawik

There may not be other CTB-priced events for the Women in Comedy Festival today or tomorrow, but the bigger performers are talking to under-appreciated Boston arts & entertainment maven Joyce Kulhawik.

The concept of having a festival to celebrate female comedic contributions may make more sense when you hear the experiences of many successful comediennes.

Since it's slightly off the beaten path, the venue is NOT the YMCA.

SAT 3/24

7pm
Chris Matthews, "Jack Kennedy: Elusive Hero": Reading
at Brookline Booksmith, 279 Harvard St, Brookline (Coolidge Corner)
FREE

Irish-American Catholic guy who graduated from Holy Cross Chris Matthews is usually more entertaining when he's excited and outraged. Some may enjoy his reverential side as he talks about this new book about President Kennedy.

Since it's only a couple blocks away from the Booksmith, the JFK National Historic Site will open out of season from 1pm to 5pm today.

SAT 3/24

7pm
Dimitris Dalakoglou, "Revolt and Crisis in Greece": Discussion
at Lucy Parsons Center, 358A Centre St, Jamaica Plain
FREE

Sussex University professor Dimitris Dalakoglou has been active in the Occupy London group and has co-edited an anthology that analyzes the protest movement in Greece since the powder keg was lit in 2008.

The anarchist, dissident perspective is not heard through most news resources, so this is one of those chances to hear it.

Friday Calendar

Ay, carumba! Here's the menu of cheapness before it gets later.

If you have your yoga accessories, there may be a big session a la "silent disco"...

There are several Women in Comedy Festival shows under $10...

If you want to rock, go to one of the 3 shows in Union Square...

Or there's free big soul at tiny Toad...

3/22: Thursday in Brief

There is still a chance to the Bruins' & Celtics' championship banners in Dorchester for free until 8pm...

The annual Women in Comedy Festival is happening through the weekend, and some related shows are under $10 like a free open-mic near Fenway Park and a show near Central Square...

There's metal at O'Brien's... and indie-rock at TT the Bear's...

The annual Irish Film Festival begins tonight with a (basically) sold-out screening at the Brattle then moving to the Somerville Theatre through Monday...

BTW: There's also a "Mad Men" party on MON 3/26 in Kenmore Square that requires an RSVP. You're supposed to dress in that style, and it's sponsored by Stuff & Canadian Club.

FYI: It's too late to RSVP for the SNL & Satire discussion with Bill Murray on TUES 3/27. The good news: If you read the fine print, you still have an equal chance to get in.

WED 3/21: Games, Words, Music

Keeping it brief... Hey, if anyone had the $1 burger at McGreevey's yesterday, could you leave a comment?

(Wow, it's another nice day!)

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WED 3/21 (and THUR 3/22)

8am to 8pm
Bruins & Celtics Championship Banners
at Salvation Army / Kroc Center Gym, 650 Dudley St, Boston (near Upham's Corner)
FREE

Since the NCAA Tournament is hitting the Garden tomorrow and Saturday, they moved all of the championship banners to a gym in Dorchester.

There isn't a nearby train station other than a commuter rail, but several buses from different Red & Orange Line stops will get you close.

WED 3/21

6pm to 8pm
Tali Hatuka, "Transformative Terrains: Choosing Places for Protest": Forum/Lectureat Room 485, Bldg 10, 222 Memorial Dr, Cambridge (MIT Campus)
FREE

Political dissent is examined through an urban design prism by an Israeli architect who studies this sort of thing.

WED 3/21

8pm
Jennifer Truesdale, "Get Paid To Sing": Book Release Party
at Johnny D's, 17 Holland St, Somerville (Davis Sq)
FREE

With the number of talent shows on TV, I think this is a good time in history for a book that gives advice to singers who want a professional career

Jennifer Truesdale is a singing coach with music industry experience, so people who believe in themselves might want to check this out. I'm guessing there may be some singing.

WED 3/21

9pm
"Test Pressing" w/ Amanda Dellevigne
at O'Brien's, 3 Harvard St, Allston
FREE

8pm -- Sign-up
9pm -- Performances
10:30pm -- Amanda Dellevigne

I like the idea of open-mics that also have a featured performer like this one. Perform or just hang out. It looks like Amanda is performing without the rest of Night Fruit.

WED 3/21

9pm
"Buck Hunter" Tournament
at Good Life, 28 Kingston St, Boston (Downtown Crossing)
FREE / 21+

With two Nintendo Wii stations and a casual atmosphere, people will try to shoot as many virtual animals as possible. A rum company may be sponsoring, so there could be a free sample before fun-hunting.

The best Buck Hunter will win dinner for two for the ground-level restaurant.

WED 3/21

9pm
Storyliars: "Fantasy"
at Milky Way Lounge/Bella Luna, 284 Amory St, Jamaica Plain (The Brewery Complex)
FREE

Funny people will probably tell funny stories that relate to the theme, and one of them is lying. The crowd then attempts to figure whose pants are "on fire".

WED 3/21 (and WED 3/28)

9:30pm
The Dennis Brennan Band
at Lizard Lounge/Cambridge Common, 1667 Mass Ave, Cambridge (between Harvard Sq & Porter Sq)
$7 advance / $10 at the door

Boston great Dennis Brennan & company are rocking every Wednesday in March. (Maybe April too.)

WED 3/21

Housse de Racket (11:30pm), Glass Teeth (10:30pm)
at TT the Bear's Place, 10 Brookline St, Cambridge (Central Sq)
$10

Fans of French synth-pop will want to check out Housse De Racket. Boston's Glass Teeth is understandably a darker sort of musical entity.

TUES 3/20: Science & Rock

Here’s to starting the week on Tuesday... Happry vernal equinox!

Yeah, my cheap music suggestions are in Union Square tonight (because I wasn't so excited about the free lineup at Church). They're both free, and it's a short walk between Precinct and Sally O'Brien's. I'd even suggest popping into Bull McCabe's for the weird horn funkiness of The Hornitz (10pm).

It's been a while since I've had a burger at McGreevey's, but they should still be as good. It may even taste better when they cost $1 on Tuesdays from 4pm to 11pm. And I hear the PBR is $3 -- you do the math.

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TUES 3/20

6pm to 7:30pm
Visualizing Science: "All In Your Head"
at MIT Museum, 265 Mass Ave, Cambridge (near Central Sq)
FREE

Feat: Aude Oliva, James Di Carlo, Antonio Torralba

The first 3 programs of a new discussion series at the MIT Museum will focus on the "visual experience" such as how the brain processes the images retrieved by our eyes.

Since it's MIT, the conversation will also question whether we need fleshy orbs to gather the data -- or a lump of gray matter to interpret & store the information.

Among the MIT professors on the panel is the new department head of Brain & Cognitive Sciences, James DiCarlo.

TUES 3/20

6pm
George Dyson, "Turing's Cathedral: The Origins of the Digital Universe": Discussion
at Brattle Theatre, 40 Brattle St, Cambridge (Harvard Sq)
$5

Tickets available at Harvard Book Store or 617-661-1515

Less an explanation of how Alan Turing who basically came up with the modern computer, "Turing's Cathedral" is about the team at Princeton that brought it to life.

From the interviews I've heard, I can't say it's worth the price of admission. On the other hand, the ticket can be used as a $5 credit at the Harvard Book Store.

TUES 3/20

7pm
Science by the Pint: "Auditory Science"
at Tavern on the Square, 1815 Mass Ave, Cambridge (Porter Sq)
FREE

Feat: Dr. David Corey

Wouldn't it be interesting to know how one actually hears things? If the information at Dr. Corey's link above is a bit too technical for you, there are 2 options.

Read a Harvard Magazine article gives a more general view of how the hairs in our ears transfers sound to our brain, or hang out with the man himself and some of his colleagues.

Like the science cafes organized by PBS, grad students at Harvard Medical School leverage their resources to spread knowledge to those interested in stimulating conversation at a bar -- among their other pursuits.

There will be some opening remarks then quite a bit of conversation. And there's a raffle at the end for a Tavern gift certificate.

TUES 3/20

8:30pm
Kristen Ford Band
at Sally O'Brien's, 335 Somerville Ave, Somerville (Union Sq)
FREE

I've seen the Kristen Ford Band a couple times, and I think she's awesome. She has such a strong positive energy that exudes from her and the songs. It might be impossible to dislike her full-throttle folk-rock. You'll either be 1) blown away, 2) thoroughly refreshed, or 3) unswayed yet admiring of the effort.

TUES 3/20

9pm
The Honors
at Precinct, 70 Union Sq, Somerville (Union Sq)
FREE

There are quite a few chances to see The Honors whether it's Tuesdays at Precinct or the weeknds at bars near Faneuil Hall. Let's hope the good times keep on going, because these guys whip up some wonderful guitar-based pop that picks influences from Southern California to Northern UK and sprinkles them through a sweet batch of tunes.

3/17: Outside-of-Box St Paddy's Day Plan

Although I don't know most of you (and I wonder how many people I know actually read this), I like to make suggestions as if we're friends.

Saturday should be wonderful to be out and about, and it happens to be St Patrick's Day. The Bruins are also playing a day game. As a friend, I cannot in good conscience suggest going to any downtown bar.

Let me give you a frame of reference: I've seen lines outside of the Black Rose at 8am in years when it was actually cold -- St Paddy's fell on a weekday!

As mentioned earlier, I agree with the notion of leaving the bars to amateurs (and I think the hardcore Irish-Americans should be given elbow room to swing their pints around).

If you end up walking around Faneuil Hall and are stymied by the overflow of pukers in ridiculous green outfits, keep on walking and watch your step.

You know bars in Allston/Brighton, Cambridge, Somerville, and JP will probably be at capacity too (and probably charging a cover). And do you really want to be the fresh face at any bar in Southie?

Consider making your own fun at a bar in the least Irish areas of town. I'm thinking Chinatown or Eastie.

How many people will pass up Jacob Wirth to hang at The Corner Pub (formerly Weggie's)? Not many.

Do you know what they're celebrating in Eastie tomorrow? They call it "Saturday".

Get on the Blue Line (Govt Center/State St/Aquarium), and you're a few minutes from places like Eddie C's that's right in Maverick Square or Trainor's Cafe just a block or so further.

Kelly's Square Pub is a little further than that, and you might want to get off at Wood Island if you're going to try the Cosmopolitan.

There are some non-St Patrick's ideas on the CTB calendar too.

Regarding the parade on Sunday, it is fun to soak up the atmosphere. It's even better if know someone having a house party. Kudos to the folks who aren't allowed in the traditional parade for following with the St. Patrick's Peace Parade.

Friday Calendar

More to come...

Perhaps tonight would be a good opportunity to go to your favorite bar, because it's very likely going to be packed tomorrow.

Luke O'Neil nailed St. Paddy's Day in the Metro this week. I'll have my Saturday options up soon, but gird your loins if you think going to a bar on a sunny, 54° St. Patrick's Day on a weekend!

THUR 3/15: Art, Video, Hip-Hop, Rock

Maybe Venus and Jupiter will poke out tonight. Last night's BU observatory session was cancelled, and I suspect tonight's program at Harvard's observatory will only be the lecture.

Can't wait for the "Hunger Games" movie? The Brattle is screening "Battle Royale" tonight, which is the 2000 Japanese film that is (probably) the source material.

You can beware the ides of March, especially if you're planning on ruling the Roman Empire...

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THUR 3/15

5:30pm to 8pm
"Campaign for Good": Opening Reception
at Fort Point Arts Community Gallery, 300 Summer St #M1, Boston (Seaport)
FREE

Feat: Karen Stein, Matthew Shanley, Jessica Gath, XO Good

The first interactive stage is over where the artists solicited slogans to be turned into art. The next stage is to absorb the messages and do some good. Or at least look at them (on view thru FRI 4/27) then decide later.

Some of these folks have created positive public art in the area before, so I don't doubt a positive vibe whatever the exhibit looks like.

If you haven't been here before, I'm pretty sure this is the gallery where you have to walk through the Channel Cafe, which is a darn-good out-of-the-way spot.

THUR 3/15

6:30pm
Akram Zataari, "In This House" & "All is Well on the Border": Video Screening
at List Visual Arts Center, Wiesner Bldg, 20 Ames St, Cambridge (MIT campus)
FREE

I watched some of Zataari's stuff on Vimeo, and it didn't seem as political as the two videos to be screened tonight (about 73 minutes total) that are both in Arabic with English subtitles .

They include stories from Lebanese prisoners of war and a soldier who hides a message in an empty mortar shell.

THUR 3/15

9pm
Blacastan 'The Master Builder Part II' Record Release Party
at Church, 69 Kilmarnock St, Boston (Fenway)
$10 / 21+

Feat: Blacastan, MC Esoteric, Big Shug, Jaysaun, DJ Doo Wop

Hosted by Mr. Peter Parker

I remember seeing Blacastan's name a couple years ago and thinking that's a good hip-hop handle. It evokes images someplace more exotic and bad-ass than his hometown of Hartford. Blac and guests are celebrating his new album (and it's okay if missed " Master Builder Part I").

Check out Big Shug who was an early Gang Starr member and Esoteric who made a concept album that starts with his dog dying then goes downhill from there.

THUR 3/15

9pm
OTP, Stereo Soul Future, Butterknife, Effzero
at Radio, 379 Somerville Ave, Somerville (Union Sq)
$7 / 21+

As much as Blacastan is a good name, OTP doesn't do thing for me. I think I ignored them because I thought they were a stoner-jam-band or something. They actually have a pretty good punky-folky thing going on.

In fact, it a full house rockin' bands that don't skimp on the melodies, especially Butterknife who I've enjoyed hearing before.

3/14 & 3/15: Cheap Astronomy

Cheapness for Pi Day and the Ides of March are on the calendar.

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WED 3/14

7:30pm to 8:30pm
Astronomy Open Night
at Coit Observatory, 725 Comm Ave*, Boston (BU campus)
FREE


THUR 3/15

7:30pm to 8:30pm
Observatory Night: "Happy Anniversary, Henrietta"
at Phillips Auditorium, Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics, 60 Garden St, Cambridge (between Porter Sq and Fresh Pond)
FREE

The forecast doesn't bode well for optimal gazing at heavenly bodies over the next 2 nights, but Venus and Jupiter (and Mars in the other direction) are looking rather bright at the moment.

They're visible by the naked eye, but it might be more interesting with a good telescope -- and someone to point it for you. Since they're all in the solar system, the detail should be rather good.

BU and Harvard have monthly observatory nights, and it seems they don't mind that students are on Spring Break at both schools.

This type of celestial activity often brings out the more of the general public, however the crowd will likely have fewer students.

It all depends on *IF* the clouds cooperate tonight and/or tomorrow.

The Coit Observatory at BU has a Twitter account to let you know if "systems are a go". At Harvard, there is usually a lecture whether or not sky conditions are right. For example, Henrietta Leavitt was a Harvard astronomer whose work 100 years ago is still the basis on how we measure distances and ages of stars

* The stairwell to the Coit Observatory is "on the fifth floor right next to room 520."

Tuesday & Wednesday Calendar

I figure it's better to have a brief post in the middle of the week.

There is stuff on tonight's calendar for: authors yearning to be published... those curious about inequality from economists' POV... anyone into jazz/world/rock or folk/rock...

Like I said last Tuesday, Union Sq is a good spot to hear free music like The Honors or Kristen Ford Band.

Don't forget tomorrow is Pi Day, so there are a couple related cheap events.

MON 3/12: Film, Theatre, Music

Here are some cheap diversions tonight. Or you can hit the last MBTA public session in Brighton.

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MON 3/12

6pm
"Veronica Guerin": Screening
at Rabb Lecture Hall, Boston Public Library, 700 Boylston St, Boston (Copley Sq)
FREE

6:30pm
"Left on Pearl": Screening
at Connolly Branch Public Library, 433 Centre St, Jamaica Plain
FREE

In honor of Women's History Month, the BPL are showing films with strong female roles and empowerment. Those who are pro-choice can decide screenings in JP or at the main library.

In "Veronica Guerin", Cate Blanchett plays the protagonist that's based on the true story of an Irish journalist who follows a story without concern for her safety.

Last week marked the 41st anniversary when a group of women took over a Harvard University building and successfully ended their occupation 10 days later with a triumph for women's rights.

MON 3/12

7pm
"Close-Up: An Evening of Theatre"
at The Factory Theatre, 791 Tremont St*, Boston (South End)
FREE

In conjunction with their current production "Recent Tragic Events", a dark comedy about a blind date on 9/12/01, the Whistler in the Dark present a night of performances inspired by the big events of the last year -- good and bad.

Expect a mix of storytelling, music and theatre about stuff like the Occupy movement, the Japan tsunami, and someone will probably mention the 10th anniversary of 9/11.

* Entrance to theatre on Northampton Street.

MON 3/12

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

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

The White Owls have been Monday night regulars for a while, but Andrea Gillis Band's run may end in a couple weeks.

MON 3/12: One More MBTA Meeting

MON 3/12

5:30pm to 7:30pm
"MBTA Fare and Service Changes"
at Veronica B. Smith Senior Center, 20 Chestnut Hill Ave, Brighton
FREE

As I mentioned on my first MBTA post, the T's budget shortfall could be major blow to riders.

This is the last chance to get up and give your opinion about service cuts and fare hikes.

I offered a few ideas on how to express yourself and/or effect change regarding the potential fare increases/service reductions (including holding fundraisers, which could be fun/funny/provocative event).

However I forgot to mention the The T Riders' Union who have been active on general MBTA issues. And now they have an online petition.

Someone named "Sean" later commented on the original post:

I suggest those of us who want sustained, if not improved public transit in Greater Boston, take a cold, hard look at not just protesting, but proposing what it is that we do support to fix the T's finances. That is, if want decent, or even improved transit, we do have to pay for it somehow.

[snip]

Mass Inc., a non-partisan think-tank has some truly reasonable and realistic proposals; backed by cold-hard data that I believe we all should take a good look at, and debate.

[another snip]

The whole thing is at the bottom.

Personally, I felt better after I spoke at a meeting and asked a few questions...

SUN 3/11: Sunday Night Off-Topic Video

Neil DeGrasse Tyson reminds us that science's answer to our origin is also quite wondrous and amazing.

SAT 3/10: Night Cheapness

There is still plenty of time and a bunch of cheap free detours to enjoy the day. Some are listed below.

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SAT 3/10

2pm, 7pm
Boston Massacre Reenactment
outside Old State House, 206 Washington St, Boston (Govt Center)
FREE

Young people at 2pm; adults at 7pm.

The reenactment might be different than what you remember from history class, but this is where it happened -- and pretty close to what actually went down.

Even though the kids at 11am and 2pm might have a better chance of screwing up and making it really funny, this is one of those Boston things to experience.

SAT 3/10

Nervous Eaters (Midnight), Lyres (10:45pm), Satin Kittens (10pm), Port Charles Quintet (9pm)
at Church, 69 Kilmarnock St, Boston (Fenway)
$10 / 21+

Do you remember the Nervous Eaters? Neither do I -- not in the "Down at The Rat in '77" kind of way -- but I know these guys are one of the original Boston garage-punks and they have more killer songs than "Loretta".

As long as Jeff "Monoman" Connolly is pounding the Farfisa keyboard and shaking a tambourine, the mercurial rock genius has the potential to blow you away. There have been nights where I've been pissed off, but isn't that exciting when hearing a prince of Boston garage.

One band that never disappointed me was The Prime Movers. A big chunk of that band including the singer and drummer are part of the Port Charles Quintet and they still blast away in a way that reminds me of Guided By Voices, except they were just influenced by similar stuff as GBV.

The Satin Kittens are a perfect time to have a smoke break, grab a drink, use the loo, make a long-distance phone call, etc.

SAT 3/10

10pm
Deva Mahal/Fredrick's Brown
at The Beehive, 541 Tremont St, Boston (South End)
FREE

The very best New York/New Zealand soul-jazz band of all time come to Boston almost on a monthly basis, and the Beehive usually gives you 2 chances to see them for free. (Consider the South End premium on drink prices as the cover charge.)

I know I'm out the only one loves Deva Mahal's divine voice over the funky jams. This is the kind of soulful music that could have wide appeal yet there's enough substance that you stand up proud to love it.

I will keep on telling you it's worth going to a high-end basement that might not be totally comfortable for you to hear some great tunes.

SAT 3/10: Day Cheapness

Yeah, the political wing of Massachusetts Pirates will be talking information liberty all day ($5) at the Democracy Center too.

And there is still 2 days of Kerouac-Love in Lowell...

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SAT 3/10

10am
Annual High School Jazz Festival
at Hynes Convention Center, 900 Boylston St, Boston (Back Bay)
FREE

Among the mix of high school bands who are hoping for Berklee auditions/scholarships are professionals who perform in a clinic setting. Walk around, there's no need to dwell somewhere for long since there is live music in many rooms.

The sweet spot in the schedule is 2pm to 5pm.

At 2pm, you could choose between Berklee grad Hailey Niswanger (who has played with some jazz heavyweights) giving a sax improv clinic or a Latin Jazz session with folks from the San Francisco Jazz High School All-Stars.

At 3pm switch between the Berklee P-Funk Ensemble (who hung with George Clinton last month) and Kendrick Scott, another accomplished Berklee grad who's giving a drum clinic.

If you want to hang a little longer, the Berklee Tower of Power Ensemble at 4pm will get you grooving as much as the real thing at this point.

SAT 3/10

11am to 3pm
"Celebrate China"
at Mandarin Oriental, 776 Boylston St, Boston (Back Bay)
FREE

The question is not "Is a fancy hotel the right venue for a day of free Chinese cultural activities?" The question is "How many times do I get to romp around a fancy hotel without security breathing down my back?"

If it makes feel better, it's being presented in conjunction with the Peabody Essex Museum who have a significant Asian collection.

These things are geared towards the kids/family angle, but it might be fine for the comfortable for the simply curious. There's a full schedule on a PDF: Make a lantern or a fan, taste teas, watch some lion dances, or maybe get a little Tai Chi & painting demonstrations.

SAT 3/10

11am, 2pm, 7pm
Boston Massacre Reenactment
outside Old State House, 206 Washington St, Boston (Govt Center)
FREE

Young people at 11am and 2pm; adults at 7pm.

The reenactment might be different than what you remember from history class, but this is where it happened -- and pretty close to what actually went down.

Personally, I think the little kids have a better chance of screwing up and making it really funny.

SAT 3/10

2:30pm
"American Meat": Food on Film Screening & Discussion
at Cahners Auditorium, Museum of Science, 1 Science Park, Boston
FREE w/ Registration

Panel Discussion: Jonathan D. Kemp (FoodEx/Organic Renaissance Food Exchange), Dan Mandich (Westminster Meats), Danielle Nierenberg (Nourishing the Planet Program, Worldwatch Institute), Theo Weening (Whole Foods Market), Nick Zigelbaum (Siena Farms)

Maybe some of you out there have a full grasp of responsible, sustainable food production. Others, like me, need a bit more information. Why not start with the ever-expanding collection of food documentaries?

In the current batch of the MoS's "Let's Talk Food" programs, this film about the future of meat production.

Yes, noted farmer Joel Salatin of "The Omnivore's Dilemma" and "Food, Inc." fame is featured in this thing too.

Then local, locavore, meat-informed folks will bring it close to home.

What a coincidence that the extra-gross "pink slime" was back in the news this week.