MARCH 24, 2016
CHATTANOOGA'S WEEKLY ALTERNATIVE
LIGHTS...CAMERA...ACTION! CHATTANOOGA FILM FESTIVAL IS BIGGER AND BETTER THAN EVER Film Editor John DeVore previews the coming attractions in time to get your tickets
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Contents
CHATTANOOGA'S WEEKLY ALTERNATIVE
EDITORIAL
Managing Editor Gary Poole Editorial Assistant Brooke Dorn
March 24, 2016 Volume 13, Issue 12
Music Editor Marc T. Michael Film Editor John DeVore Contributors David Traver Adolphus • Rich Bailey Rob Brezsny • Patrick Filbin Matt Jones • Tony Mraz Ernie Paik • Rick Pimental-Habib Terry Stulce • Alex Teach Editorial Interns Rebekah Jones • Ja'Lisa Little Cartoonists Max Cannon • Rob Rogers Jen Sorenson • Tom Tomorrow
Features
Cover Illustration Gnokki FOUNDED 2003 BY ZACHARY COOPER & MICHAEL KULL
ADVERTISING
Director of Sales Mike Baskin Account Executives Chee Chee Brown • Robyn Graves Linda Hisey • Rick Leavell Stacey Tyler • Logan Vandergriff
CONTACT
Offices 1305 Carter St., Chattanooga, TN 37402 Phone 423.265.9494 Website chattanoogapulse.com Email info@chattanoogapulse.com BREWER MEDIA GROUP Publisher & President Jim Brewer II THE FINE PRINT: The Pulse is published weekly by Brewer Media and is distributed throughout the city of Chattanooga and surrounding communities. The Pulse covers a broad range of topics concentrating on music, the arts, entertainment, culture and local news. The Pulse is available free of charge, limited to one copy per reader. No person without written permission from the publisher may take more than one copy per weekly issue. The Pulse may be distributed only by authorized distributors. Contents Copyright © 2016 by Brewer Media. All rights reserved.
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Lights...Camera…Time For Action!
There is no event in the Scenic City better than the Chattanooga Film Festival. That this is the third year is fairly impressive given how easy it would have been for the festival to fizzle after, if not during, year one. Nothing in Chattanooga is ever easy.
10
Inside The Art of Heavy Metal
Magic is the science of the future, and the alchemy of the present is alive and well at Sequatchie Valley Institute’s Liquidambar Art Gallery. The highly advanced Prochronistic Sculptures of Patrick Ironwood will undoubtedly delight future anthropologists—these breathtaking works have a mystical quality, evoking the anachronistic, opening Pandora’s box.
14
Do You Like Really Good Jazz?
Sweden’s most prominent musical exports have come in the form of pop music, including that from international stars ABBA, Roxette, and Ace of Base and critic’s darlings The Knife and Jens Lekman, and Sweden is also a notable base for death metal, with groups such as Opeth, At the Gates, and In Flames.
4 BEGINNINGS: Does Trump want to make America great, or just white? 5 THE LIST: Ranking the most expensive movies to make of all time. 9 AIR BAG: Owning a car is a relationship. You need to know how to get along. 12 ARTS CALENDAR 16 MUSIC CALENDAR 18 REVIEWS: Troubador Lee impresses, Deam Jurnal gets down and dirty live. 19 FREE WILL ASTROLOGY 19 JONESIN’ CROSSWORD 20 SCREEN: Why Allegiant failed to meet this book lover’s expectations. 21 CONSIDER THIS 22 TECH TALK: Tech Goes Home Chattanooga enables digital literacy.
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NEWS • VIEWS • RANTS • RAVES
BEGINNINGS
UPDATES » CHATTANOOGAPULSE.COM FACEBOOK/CHATTANOOGAPULSE EMAIL LOVE LETTERS, ADVICE & TRASH TALK TO INFO@CHATTANOOGAPULSE.COM
Op-Ed: Sympathy for the Devil Does “The Donald” want to make America great, or just white? Sure, Donald Trump is a bigot, narcissist and a pathological liar, but he has also done some good inadvertently. He has been very successful at exploding Republican mythology. His first revelation was that his fellow candidates were TERRY nothing more than puppets for rich donors. Bullseye! He then crushed the Republican orthodoxy that George Bush “kept us safe” and the Iraq war was justified by 9/11. The truth was that Bush was asleep at the switch, had ignored
dire warnings about Al Qaeda, and failed to take any action to keep us “safe”. He then used 9/11 and lies about weapons of mass destruction to start a disastrous war with Iraq. That war cost us thousands of lives, trillions of dollars, and, worst of STULCE all, has destabilized the entire Middle East. Trump is the only Republican candidate to grasp this truth. However, Trump’s most important contribution is that he has ripped the mask off the GOP and has exposed the heart of darkness
OPINION
underneath. Trump’s violent rallies have showcased the Republican’s success at gathering racists, bigots, and white supremacists into their party. Video evidence tells the story. The first thing you notice on tape is the whiteness. The audience reminds you of a KKK rally without sheets. The racist entitlement is palpable. The Trump crowd is like the Bull Connor mob at the Norman Pettis Bridge. Minorities are verbally abused, pushed, shoved, and sucker-punched. The Republican racist genie is out of the bottle and on full display for all to see. Police/security forces focus on repressing minorities rather than Photo courtesy Donald J. Trump for President quelling the violence of the Trump mob. Twenty black Valdosta State students that had tickets to the Trump event dependent on racial stereotypes were exiled by Georgia police for being black. rather than facts. Bigotry has beA young black man who had been suckeredcome the Republican gold stanpunched by a white racist was then thrown dard. It is clearly the party of hate. to the ground by six policemen. Non-violent If you hate African-Americans, protesters outside Trump’s Latinos, MusKansas City event were lims, gays, wompepper-sprayed without en, intelligence, provocation. and science; But in fairness to Trump, then, this party he did not create this probis for you. Racist lem, he has simply used it “dog whistles” to his own advantage. The and carefully Republican Party began veiled innuendo exacerbating racial divihave obscured sions with Nixon’s SouthRepublican racern Strategy. Now the Parism just above ty is 86 percent white. The the threshold of Republicans kicked their deniability. racism into high gear with the election of Now, thanks to Donald Trump, America’s first African-American President. you can see that racism is synonyOn the night of his inauguration, a group of mous with being Republican. white Republican Senators met to plot their •••• conspiracy to completely obstruct the new Terr y Stulce ser ved two combat President. Never mind that they damaged our tours in Vietnam, one with the 101st country in the process. Airborne and one with the 69th BorFor the past seven years, the President der Rangers. He was an LCSW and has endured the Republican propaganda owner of Cleveland Family Counselmachine’s misinformation campaign that is ing before retirement in 2009.
“In fairness to Trump, he did not create this problem, he has simply used it to his own advantage.”
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The List
EdiToon
Most Expensive Movies of All Time
by Rob Rogers
With our cover story this week taking an advance look at the upcoming Chattanooga Film Festival, which features a bunch of small and medium budget films, we thought we'd go in an entirely different direction, financially speaking. So, we pulled out our calculators and, adjusting for inflation, present to you the ten most expensive movies to make of all time.
Running A 5K In A Very Tasty Way This Saturday, fitness has never tasted so good. Join Chattanooga’s Camp Jordan as they host the Flavor Run 5K. It’s more than just your average sweaty run. It’s a rainbow run packed with flavor. Flavor Run 5K Chattanooga is a charitable running for fitness event that supports local charities and business by “engaging all of your senses; sight, smell, touch, hearing, and most
importantly TASTE.” Founded by John McMahan, Flavor Run 5K gets communities active in fun (and tasty) ways. The event is for walkers and runners, beginner and advanced runners, children and adults. Most importantly, it’s a community based event. They have traveled across the nation and finally they reach Chattanooga. Make sure to come in dressed in all white because you’ll
IN THIS ISSUE
John DeVore Our own resident film critic John DeVore has spent a significant portion of his life in dark theaters. From an early age, he was drawn to strong storytelling brought to life through the magic of the silver screen. With degrees in both literature and education,
leave splashed with color. Cornstarch doesn’t sound yummy but wait—its corn starch packed with fruity flavor. During the run participants will be splashed in fruit flavored color powers (hence the all-white clothing) such as strawberry, orange, and watermelon. Volunteers will toss handfuls of powder along the route until the largest serving is tossed by the flavor fairies. And after the run, it’s not over yet. There will be live entertainment, activities, and healthy fruit vendors waiting at the finish line. — Ja’Lisa Little
David Traver Adolphus John has keen insight into critical theory and a genuine desire to educate audiences on the finer points of film appreciation. His favorite films transcend genre— quality storytelling and respect for the intelligence of the audience will win him over every time. When not watching and writing about film, John spends his time writing his own stories and exposing his children to the wonders of movie magic.
David Traver Adolphus is our resident car geek, covering all things automotive for us on a monthly basis. David is a freelance automotive researcher who recently quit his full-time job writing about old cars to pursue his lifelong dream of writing about old AND
new cars. David occasionally contributes to Road & Track magazine and often to roadandtrack.com and elsewhere. He is also the founder of The Road Home, a nonprofit benefitting post-9/11 veterans. Learn more about it on Facebook @theroadhomeusa. As far as his automotive writing, he welcomes the inevitable and probably richly deserved kvetching about Airbag and anything else on Twitter as @proscriptus.
1. Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides (2011): $398 million 2. Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End (2007): $342 million 3. Titanic (1997): $295 million 4. Spider-Man 3 (2007): $294 million 5. Tangled (2010): $282 million 6. Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015): $280 million 7. Harry Potter and the HalfBlood Prince (2009): $276 million 8. John Carter (2012): $272 million 9. Waterworld (1996): $267 million 10. Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest (2006): $264 million What really surprises with this list is how much money Disney spends on movies, considering they made five of the top ten. It's also notable that all of the films were made in the last two decades. Wow. Just wow. Source: wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_ most_expensive_films
CHATTANOOGAPULSE.COM • MARCH 24, 2016 • THE PULSE • 5
COVER STORY
Lights...Camera… Time For Action!
Your guide to the best and most interesting films and events at the Chattanooga Film Festival By John DeVore, Pulse film editor
T
here is no event in the Scenic City better than the Chattanooga Film Festival. That this is the third year is fairly impressive given how easy it would have been for the festival to fizzle after, if not during, year one. Nothing in Chattanooga is ever easy. Sometimes it seems that those with the biggest ambition can’t get a word in edgewise over some self serving “arts organization” with family connections, riddled by inefficiency and malaise.
The CFF has proven itself to be different, simply because its founders aim to fill a void and provide an outlet to a community of fans desperate for good films outside the realm of standard Hollywood fare. Chris Dortch Jr. certainly holds the successes of the festival squarely on his shoulders. Dortch’s passion for film is evident to anyone who has ever met him and he has hand selected each and every feature film shown so far. This is no easy task, as film submissions have doubled every year since the festival began in 2014. This means that Dortch personally watched over 400 films this year and selected the best he could for Chattanooga film fans. But as important as Dortch is to the festival, without the support of a zealous and capable staff, the festival would be dead in the water. I was lucky enough to see many of these good people working tirelessly last year, coordinating volunteers and wrangling guests, selling tickets and merchandise, and keeping the throngs of people entertained while they waited for films to begin. 6 • THE PULSE • MARCH 24, 2016 • CHATTANOOGAPULSE.COM
There are people like Box Office Manager/Submissions Coordinator Bryan Center and Brian Hennen, tech guru (and local arcade entrepreneur), both of which assisted in selecting films for the popular short blocks that pepper the schedule with brilliance and weirdness; people like Jan Bramlett, who ensured that every volunteer shift was covered and every volunteer was fed; all the way down to people like Samantha Doss, Zoe Marston, and Jet Smith, interns this year who are most likely the future of the festival. The CFF is a massive undertaking, one that every staff member and volunteer believes in, far beyond any other event found during the year. This passion is what attracts stars like Elijah Wood. This passion is what brings Joe Bob Briggs back for a second year. And this passion is why this year the festival is anticipating nearly 12,000 attendees (up from 7,100 last year and 3,400 the year before.) This is an event that will continue to grow, far beyond its meager beginnings. It will be, of course, impossible to see and do everything, but what follows are the highlights (meaning what I intend
to see), broken down by day for your convenience.
Thursday, March 31 The Wraith (7:25 p.m.): This cult classic features Charlie Sheen and Nick Cassavetes in a revenge picture that defies explanation. The big draw here, however, is its presentation and Q&A following the film by legendary character actor and film co-star Clint Howard. Rumor has it that Howard will be doing a longer, impromptu Q & A during the festival. Check out the CFF tent at 3:00 PM on Friday, maybe. I Saw The Light (7:30 p.m.): Another way to start the festival is with this Hank Williams biopic starring Tom Hiddleston. Without a doubt, the music will alone make the film worthwhile. Bad Blood (9:35 p.m.): Bad Blood is the first of a plethora of genre films found at the CFF. Bad Blood is a creature feature of the first order, with everything you could ask for: drugs, parties, lizards, half man/half lizards, the works! I’m OK You’re Karaoke (10:00
p.m.): The first late night party of the weekend, take a leave of absence from the theaters and sing your heart out at Puckett’s Grocery till after midnight. There’s nothing better than a good film, but karaoke might be close.
sented by Elijah Wood’s Spectravision. Chris Dortch calls it a film “which demands to be seen and apologized for.”
Friday, April 1
Truth Bombs–Documentary Shorts (11:00 a.m.): As with the animated shorts, this block should likely be seen without prior knowledge. Let the investigation flow over you, change your perspective, or challenge your world view. TN Filmmaker Showcase (11:00 a.m.): Celebrate the talent of Tennessee filmmakers by seeing six films from across the state. CFF Gets Animated with Adult Swim and Archer (1:15 p.m.): Learn about phrasing from Cartoon Network’s Adult Swim and Archer: writer/ director Chris Kelly, animator/illustrator Bob Pettitt, editor Brad Zimmerman, and editor Paul Painter. This is a panel like none other—make time to see something truly special. Raiders! The Story of the Greatest Fan Film Ever Made (3:15 p.m.): Raiders! is a story of friendship, commitment, and fandom. If you’ve ever tried to make a movie in your backyard, this is the film for you. Baskin (6:10 p.m.): Cops vs. demons. What could be better? Comedy of Terrors (8:00 – 9:45): There is nowhere else you can see a 1960s horror spoof starring Vincent Price, Peter Lorre, and Boris Karloff. The fact that this film is featured in a prime viewing slot shows just how special the CFF truly is.
From Dusk Till Drawn–Animated Shorts (11:30 a.m.): There is no leaving the CFF without seeing one (or more) of the shorts blocks. I always find the best way to see a block of shorts is to go in blind. There’s a lot to be said for being completely surprised by a film or two. Eddie Presley (1:15 p.m.): Character driven films tend to be the best kind and Eddie Presley offers this in spades. Follow the story of a wounded Elvis impersonator as he struggles to keep the King’s legend alive, one lounge show at a time. Here Come the Videofreex (3:15 p.m.): This documentary follows the exploits of a band of video pioneers who, using the first Sony portable video camera, covered some seminal counterculture events of the 1960s and ‘70s and later started a pirate television station. This is quintessential documentary viewing, a film about capturing moments in time that may have easily been lost. Secret Screening! (4:50 p.m.): These are the moments that make the festival. Trust implicitly in the programmers and you won’t be led astray. There are three secret screenings during the festival—make sure to catch at least one of them. Joe Bob Briggs Presents Redneck Night (8:00 p.m.): Joe Bob Briggs was one of the major highlights of CFF 2015 and this year will be no different. Those who missed him last year should make every effort to attend this one of a kind event. You are guaranteed to leave with a greater understanding of rednecks, film, and rednecks on film. The Greasy Strangler (10:50 p.m.): The Greasy Strangler is a film that is inflicted upon the audience, a genuine Grindhouse genre picture pre-
Saturday, April 2
Sunday, April 3 Boy & the World (10:45 a.m.): The festival isn’t just for adults. This animated feature is made especially for audiences young and old alike. Chris Dortch calls it a “chance for families to come and see something super cool for the young ‘uns.” Schoolhouse Block–Student Shorts (12:30 p.m.): The CFF is great for everyone, including aspiring filmmakers. Come see films by young
artists that might be the next big thing. The Alchemist Cookbook (2:50 p.m.): From the CFF website: “Suffering from delusions of fortune, a young hermit hides out in the forest hoping to crack an ancient mystery, but pays a price for his mania.” Solid gold. The Adderall Diaries (5:20 p.m.): This is a drama about memory and how our histories are never quite what they seem. Eddie Pepitone (7:15 p.m.): It wouldn’t be the CFF without a comedy block and headlining this year is Eddie Pepitone, a modern day cross between Jackie Gleason, Don Rickles and Eckart Tolle. Bleeding Skull Presents: Scary Tales (8:45 p.m.): Anything from Bleeding Skull is bound to inspire devotion in genre film fans. These films are guaranteed to tickle your fear ligaments. Everything is Terrible (10:30 p.m.): This will likely be the strangest thing you see during the festival. The less said about Everything is Terrible the better. That’s a life lesson. Of course, this is just one way to experience the CFF. There are many more films, events, panels, and parties. The festival will be packed with actors, producers, directors, and guests, far more than have been announced. There’s no telling who you might see wandering around downtown. Two films not mentioned above are Embrace of the Serpent and Too Late, which are specifically endorsed by Chris Dortch as “don’t miss” events (Too Late is an Robert Altman-eqsue detective film shot on 35mm in five continuous takes). Not to mention Camino, a film presented by legendary stuntwoman Zoe Bell, and Jaco, a film produced and presented by famed Metallica bassist Robert Trujillo. There is genuinely something for everyone to be found at this year’s CFF. Tickets and badges are still available, but selling quickly. Now is the time. If you haven’t been to the festival before, it’s a good time to start. Those that have been, I have no doubt you’ll go again. It’s time to support local film. CHATTANOOGAPULSE.COM • MARCH 24, 2016 • THE PULSE • 7
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COLUMN AIR BAG
Five Tips For A Happy Car Life Owning a car is a relationship. You need to know how to get along.
DAVID TRAVER ADOLPHUS
“
Like any relationship, it requires some effort on your part, to listen to your car and learn how to get the most out of it.”
David Traver Adolphus is a freelance automotive researcher who recently quit his full time job writing about old cars to pursue his lifelong dream of writing about old AND new cars. He welcomes the inevitable and probably richly deserved kvetching about Air Bag and anything else on Twitter as @proscriptus.
There are two ways you can think about car ownership. You can...not think about it, like you don’t think about any other appliance, until it breaks or otherwise doesn’t meet your needs. It’s never going to make you happy, because you will only notice it when something goes wrong. But it won’t make you unhappy, because you don’t really care about it. Many people are content to live that way, which is fine; but it isn’t a relationship. A relationship with your car opens you up to, yes, more heartache; but also to joy. Or at least more fun when you’re driving and why wouldn’t you have that if you could? Like any relationship, though, it requires some effort on your part, to listen to your car and learn how to get the most out of it. 1) Literally listen We all pay attention when there’s a clunk and something starts making a “wuppa wuppa wuppa” noise underneath, but that’s just the bad stuff. Your car relationship gets better if you listen for the good things. Unless it’s a total heap, there will be particular rpm ranges where your engine sings, where you get the best kick when you put your foot down. Learn those points and live in them. 2) Explore your limits *cough*. Your car is capable of far more than you probably imagine. Let’s look at something completely uninspiring, say, last year’s Nissan Titan pickup, before it got this year’s diesel engine. Your base model stickered at $29,000 and came with a 317hp V-8. That got it to 60 mph in 8.7 seconds, which is like an ‘80s Z/28 Camaro. Get yourself in a
Photo: Tom Romig
straight line on the highway sometime when you need to get up to speed, and stand on it. Any modern car is faster than a million-dollar old Ferrari. Finding out what you can do will make every driving moment better.
of the corners. Remember that you’re probably nowhere near your vehicle’s limits. It’s OK to have the tires squeal a little. Bring that knowledge back with you and start enjoying on-ramps a little more.
3) Treat it to a little something I can’t repeat this enough—with only a few parts, you can completely change the way your car feels. They are: good shocks or struts (not Midas); good brakes (again, not Midas); and most importantly, good tires. Yes, a set of proper summer tires (or ultra high-performance all-season if you drive an SUV; save your factory all-season tires for December and January) is going to cost you, but it’s going to feel like a new, better car as well as being about 40 times safer.
5) Make quality time Everyone used to be out in the driveway on the weekend washing the car, gapping the plugs, setting the timing, all the little chores we just don’t do any more. I’m not saying you need to crawl underneath your Escalade and grease the zerks, but how about an extra trip to the car wash, or that detailing I’m always pushing? Tim, the nice mobile detailing guy, will even come to you and make your car all happy and nice while you do whatever it is you do. If you’re into that sort of thing.
4) Go out Do you ever drive for fun, or do you just commute and do errands and basically just get from one place to the other? You can do both, you know. Go out to the Cherohala Skyway this weekend, make a little round trip through Deal’s Gap and lean on it coming out
The difference between a car and any other inanimate object you might own is that this is the only one you travel in every day. It should be different, and you should treat it differently. It should be a whole lot more meaningful, and fun.
CHATTANOOGAPULSE.COM • MARCH 24, 2016 • THE PULSE • 9
ARTS SCENE
Inside The Art of Heavy Metal Patrick Ironwood talks about his art, his process, and his inspiration Helga Kidder
Embracing Spring at Star Line Books Regional authors take a natural look at Spring In her descriptive poem, “Borders”, Helga Kidder embraces spring and all its attributes. “The sun’s hands cup my face / one last time before she lets herself fall / behind the plateau of Signal Mountain.” Winter becomes no more as spring takes over through nature’s imagery. If you wish to experience spring through words, this Tuesday, Star Line books will explore nature’s beauty with poetry read and written by regional authors. Star Line bookstore aims to be Chattanooga’s bookstore. At last, there’s a place for Chattanoogans to gather and interact with each other over new content. On poetry night, authors, readers, and writers gather together to hear poetry by Helga Kidder, Finn Bille and more. Helga Kidder is the co-founder of the Chattanooga Writers’ Guild and a UTC alumni. Her collections of po-
etry include “Wild Plums”, “Luckier than the Stars”, and her recently released “Blackberry Winter”. She is joined by Finn Bille, an international storyteller who holds readings in Chattanooga and Denmark. Bille co-edited the anthology, “Southern Light, Twelve Contemporary Southern Poets”. Along with Kidder and Billie, Ray Zimmerman, John C. Mannone, Bruce Majors, KB Ballentine, and Mia Hansford will showcase their written poetry at Star Line bookstore. — Ja'Lisa Little Fifth Tuesday: Regional Authors at Star Line Books Tuesday, 6 p.m. Star Line Books 1467 Market St. (423) 777-5629 starlinebooks.com
THU3.24
FRI3.25
SAT3.26
LOCAL ARTISTS
TYPECASTING
CAR PARTS
Reflections Gallery Open House
Linotype: The Film
Space Oddity Art Car Build with Art120
Meet a bunch of local artists and a gallery cat or two. 4 p.m. Reflections Gallery 6922 Lee Hwy. (423) 892-3072 reflectionsgallerytn.com
Yes, a movie about the typecasting machine. Really. 6 p.m. The Museum Center at 5ive Points 200 Inman St. (423) 339-5745 museumcenter.org
It's fun. It's educational. It's just downright cool. Noon Downtown Library 1001 Broad St. (423) 757-5310 chattlibrary.org
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M
AGIC IS THE SCIENCE OF THE FUTURE, AND THE alchemy of the present is alive and well at Sequatchie Valley Institute’s Liquidambar Art Gallery. The highly advanced Prochronistic Sculptures of Patrick Ironwood will undoubtedly delight future anthropologists—these breathtaking works have a mystical quality, evoking the anachronistic, opening Pandora’s box.
Arts TONY MRAZ
“
My art is from a story in the future—each piece is an anthropological clue from a future perspective of who we are now.”
We sat down with Patrick for a chat about his work and what makes him “tick” as an artist. The Pulse: How did you get your start? Patrick Ironwood: Most of my abilities come from 40 years of life on my four-generation family homestead and intentional community in the Sequatchie Valley, on the western edge of the Southern Appalachians. From the time I was six and running wild on the mountainside, I have cared for goats and fowl, worked with mules and llamas, and operated a wood shop and sawmill. I designed edible landscapes, a permaculture forest farm, and built epic organic structures of logs, rock, straw, and clay. Without the experiences, skills, and access to tools that my life has provided, I would not be able to create the art that enriches my life and the lives of others. I initially learned stained glass and lampworking from my former wife, Asha Ironwood, in 1996. Lampworking sparked my scientific curiosity, which encouraged me to explore the more technical and fringe aspects of the art. Recent research into esoteric techniques has brought me to the relatively new art of electroforming, which dates back to 1804. I am self-taught in the process, which I have been exploring since 2013. My art is from a story in the future—each
piece is an anthropological clue from a future perspective of who we are now. As I assimilate these ideas, my work continues to evolve into increasingly complex and multi-layered designs. TP: What are some of your influences? PI: I am moved by Ancient Egyptian, Greek, Etruscan, and Minoan art. I’m interested in Pataphysics (the nature of imaginary machines), the steam punk aesthetic, the postindustrial collapse, objectivist utopian philosophy, and pre-Raphaelite painting. Some artists who inspire me are Alexander Calder, Jackson Pollock, Nikola Tesla, Johann Goethe, and Antoni Gaudi. I am also fascinated by the Antikythera Mechanism, an ancient analog computer that was discovered off the coast of Greece in 1900. TP: What is your philosophy of Art? PI: I believe that the deliberate alteration of any material tests our abilities. From the beginning, it is an often humbling campaign to create beauty and harmony in a thing—the finding and use of materials, the tools and techniques employed, bringing into being form and color, the attention and deliberateness in the moment of creation as the medium is altered, transforming it into its new form. It is about making wonder, intrigue, and beauty—finding the enthusiastic encouragement to always look deeper into reality for meaning and thus continue to discover reason through process—the future of meaning—a future value realized in the past and present, unleashing qualities that were unknown before—all of this because of the viewing of an object made by one’s self. We are the cre-
ators of our reality. TP: What materials and processes do you use? PI: I explore color and form using the high temperature flame of a GTT phantom torch which runs on an oxygen accumulator and propane. This technology makes a flame that is adjustable, allowing distinct and varying effects on the color reactions. I mostly use glass from Italy, Germany, New Zealand, and the USA. For over 15 years, I have been experimenting with color combinations and reactions—they are elusive, tricky, playful and dangerous. Flame chemistry simultaneously finesses and forces new color combinations, possibly ones that have never been seen. This exploration has allowed me to observe thousands of reactions and find a path with my own unique palette. These reactions are amazingly abstract and changeable…the potential in layering color and microscopic detail and dimensional depth is seemingly infinite. Using graphite and brass tools (many of my own design), I form the glass by spinning its molten form, much as a potter does on a wheel. While blending and layering color, I paint with glass until I know balance and harmony. I often flatten 3-D forms into 2-D landscapes. I built a copper electroforming machine which allows me to atomically bond salvaged copper onto my lamp-worked glass and other sculptures. Electrically hardened copper makes a strong and organically detailed finish, reminiscent of a very old object, one which may have been under the sea for thousands of years… CHATTANOOGAPULSE.COM • MARCH 24, 2016 • THE PULSE • 11
ARTS CALENDAR
An Evening In Paris
THURSDAY3.24 Ooltewah Farmers Market 2 p.m. Ooltewah Nursery 5829 Main St. (423) 238-9775 ooltewahnursery.com Chattanooga Girls Rock Volunteer Drive 3:30 p.m. Sluggo’s North Vegaterian Café 501 Cherokee Blvd. (423) 752-5224 chattanoogagirlsrock.com Reflections Gallery Open House 4 p.m. Reflections Gallery 6922 Lee Hwy. (423) 892-3072 reflectionsgallerytn.com Women Ground Breakers Storytelling #4 - Veterans / Military 5 p.m. The Crossing 7501 Standifer Gap Rd. (423) 805-4602 womengroundbreakers.com Nature Nuts: March Madness 5 p.m. Tennessee Aquarium 1 Broad St. (423) 265-0695 tnaqua.org CHA Tech Social Hour 5:30 p.m. The Camp House 149 E. MLK Blvd. (423) 702-8081 thecamphouse.com Technology of Quilting
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6 p.m. Museum Center at 5ive Points 200 Inman St. (423) 339-5745 museumcenter.org Curls Night Out 6 p.m. Studio 59 Aveda Salon & Spa 2309 Hickory Valley Rd. (423) 894-1175 studio59salonspa.com An Evening In Paris 6 p.m. Chattanooga Ballet 817 N. Market St. (423) 265-0617 chattanoogaballet.net String Theory 6:30 p.m. The Hunter Museum of American Art 10 Bluff View (423) 267-0968 huntermuseum.org
PULSE PICK: MATT MITCHELL A pure southern mash boogie comedian from Alabama with bare feet, mush-mouthed drawling, and a milewide social streak. Think Lynyrd Skynyrd as a stand-up comic. Matt Mitchell The Comedy Catch 1400 Market St. (423) 629-2233 thecomedycatch.com
Bell’s Oberon Debut 7 p.m. The Bitter Alibi 825 Houston St. (423) 362-5070 thebitteralibi.com World Series of Comedy Qualifier 7:30 p.m. The Comedy Catch 1400 Market St. (423) 629-2233 thecomedycatch.com
FRIDAY3.25 Day-Trip to Mary Keasler’s Studio 9 a.m. Museum Center at 5ive Points 200 Inman St. (423) 339-5745 museumcenter.org
Riverside Chattanooga Pre-Meet 6 p.m. The Bitter Alibi 825 Houston St. (423) 362-5070 thebitteralibi.com Linotype: The Film 6 p.m. Museum Center at 5ive Points 200 Inman St. (423) 339-5745 museumcenter.org Matt Mitchell 7:30, 9:45 p.m. The Comedy Catch 1400 Market St. (423) 629-2233 thecomedycatch.com
SATURDAY3.26 St. Albans Hixson Market 8:30 a.m. St. Alban’s Church 7514 Hixson Pike stalbansepiscopal.net Chattanooga River Market 10 a.m. Tennessee Aquarium 1 Broad St. (423) 265-0695 chattanoogarivermarket.com Easter Egg Hunt 10 a.m. Booker T. Washington Park 5801 Champion Rd. (423) 892-4270 hvcconline.com Easter Extravaganza 10 a.m. The Ministry Center 2929 Hamill Rd.
ARTS CALENDAR
Hug-A-Bunny Day (423) 877-5171 theministrycenter.org Hug-A-Bunny Day 10 a.m. Chattanooga Zoo 301 N. Holtzclaw Ave. (423) 697-1322 chattzoo.org Flavor Run Chattanooga 10 a.m. Camp Jordan Park 323 Camp Jordan Pkwy. (423) 463-4391 flavorrun.com Riverside Spring Meet Noon First Tennessee Pavilion 1826 Reggie White Blvd. (423) 266-4041 riversidechattanooga.com Space Oddity Art Car Build with Art120 Noon Downtown Library 1001 Broad St. (423) 757-5310 chattlibrary.org Chattanooga ZineFest 2016 Workshop Series 12:30 p.m. Chattanooga Public Library 1001 Broad St. (423) 757-5310 chattlibrary.org Beyond the Bursts: Exploring the Work of Adolph Gottlieb 1:30 p.m. The Hunter Museum of American Art 10 Bluff View (423) 267-0968 huntermuseum.org Wild Flower Hike 1 p.m.
Sequatchie Valley Institute 1233 Cartwright Loop (423) 949-5922 svionline.org LEARN! To Fly a Drone 1 p.m. Chattanooga Public Library 1001 Broad St. (423) 757-5310 chattlibrary.org Book Signing & Discussion for The Firebrand and The First Lady 2:30 p.m. Jazzanooga Arts Space 431 E. MLK Blvd. jazzanooga.org Matt Mitchell 7:30, 9:45 p.m. The Comedy Catch 1400 Market St. (423) 629-2233 thecomedycatch.com
SUNDAY3.27 Easter at Coolidge Park 9 a.m. Coolidge Park 150 River St. (423) 643-5956 More Than Easter at Metro Tab 9:30 a.m. Metropolitan Tabernacle 2101 W. Shepherd Rd. (423) 894-3377 metrotab.net Venue Church–Easter at McKenzie Arena 10:30 a.m. McKenzie Arena 720 E. 4th St.
(423) 425-4706 utc.edu/mckenzie-arena Poverty Mentality: Breaking the Chains 4 p.m. The Rose of Hope Project 1918 Union Ave. (423) 903-9394
MONDAY3.28 Lookout Farmers Market 3:30 p.m. Red Bank United Methodist Church 3800 Dayton Blvd. (423) 838-9804 There’s A Word For That (Songs, Poems and Prose with Nathan Bell and Special Guests) 8 p.m. Barking Legs Theatre 1307 Dodds Ave. (423) 624-5347 barkinglegs.org
TUESDAY3.29 Tuesday Café Noon Jewish Cultural Center 5461 N. Terrace (423) 493-0270 jewishchattanooga.com Fifth Tuesday: Regional Authors at Star Line Books 6 p.m. Star Line Books 1467 Market St. (423) 777-5629 starlinebooks.com
Quilts Trunk Show 6 p.m. Museum Center at 5ive Points 200 Inman St. (423) 339-5745 museumcenter.org
WEDNESDAY3.30 Chattanooga Chase 2016 8 a.m. Riverview Park 1000 Barton Ave. chattanoogachase2016.com Middle East Dance 10:30 a.m. Jewish Cultural Center 5461 N. Terrace (423) 493-0270 jewishchattanooga.com Main Street Farmers Market 4 p.m. Main Street Farmers Market 325 E. Main St. mainstfarmersmarket.com Wednesday Night Chess Club 6 p.m. Downtown Library 1001 Broad St. (423) 757-5310 chattlibrary.org Jewish Film Series: Labyrinth of Lies 7 p.m. Jewish Cultural Center 5461 N. Terrace (423) 493-0270 jewishchattanooga.com Map these locations on chattanoogapulse.com. Send event listings at least 10 days in advance to: calendar@chattanoogapulse.com CHATTANOOGAPULSE.COM • MARCH 24, 2016 • THE PULSE • 13
MUSIC SCENE
Do You Like Jazz? Really Good Jazz? Sweden’s APUH! brings Scandinavian improvisational jazz to Barking Legs
Hip-Rock Trumpeter Hits The Stage Shamarr Allen coming to The Camp House on Saturday This Saturday you have the opportunity to be transported from Chattanooga to New Orleans through the unique musical talent of Shamarr Allen. Allen is well known and deeply loved in New Orleans, and he’s coming to The Camp House to spread his infectious sound. He is on tour and is being supported by Jazzanooga and The Tenesha Irvin Show, a talk show about real issues and the ways to resolve them. Shamarr Allen is a native of New Orleans and a seasoned trumpeter and vocalist. He has been compared to Lenny Kravitz, Patti LaBelle, and Branford Marsalis to name just a few. Not only has he been likened to some of the greats, but he’s played with them. He has jammed with artists such as Leon Russell, Ray Price, and R.E.M. He prides himself on originality and the genre of his music speaks to his determined vision. His music
has been coined with the innovative genre, hip-rock. His music bends and stretches the boundaries of jazz, hiphop, rock, and funk. He creates all original music and has spoken passionately about the joys of improvising on stage, something you would be sure to see if you attend Saturday. His newest album, 504-799-8147, is a precise representation of the genre-bending approach he has perfected. This 14-track album is sure to be in the mix of the set list for this Saturday, and it is an experience you don’t want to miss. For tickets, go to evenbrite.com and to learn more about Allen, visit his website shamarrallen.com. — Rebekah Jones Shamarr Allen Saturday, 8:30 p.m. The Camp House 149 E. MLK Blvd. thecamphouse.com
THU3.24
FRI3.25
SAT3.26
SUPER STRINGS
IN THE GROOVE
TRADING DAY
String Theory
Cinnamon Groove
Trade Day Troubadours
Alexander Sitkovetsky, Colin Carr, and Gloria Chien team up for a stringful evening. 6:30 p.m. The Hunter Museum of Art 10 Bluff View Ave. huntermuseum.org
A blend of unique musicians from all over the globe to share their musical passions. 9 p.m. World of Beer 412 Market St. wobusa.com
Three extraordinary pickers in one great band. 7:30 p.m. Barking Legs Theatre 1307 Dodds Ave. barkinglegs.org
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S
WEDEN’S MOST PROMINENT MUSICAL EXPORTS have come in the form of pop music, including that from international stars ABBA, Roxette, and Ace of Base and critic’s darlings The Knife and Jens Lekman, and Sweden is also a notable base for death metal, with groups such as Opeth, At the Gates, and In Flames.
Music ERNIE PAIK
“
APUH! has always been a D.I.Y. kind of band, and we’re trying to be a part of making the experimental scene grow as much as we can.”
However, what is lesser-known is the history of Swedish jazz, which emerged in jazz clubs in the first half of the 20th century, and stays by legendary saxophonist Albert Ayler in the early ‘60s and trumpeter Don Cherry in the late ‘60s, helped to bring the spirit of American avant-garde jazz to the country, leading to current proponents including hardblowing saxophonist Mats Gustafsson in the worlds of free jazz and improvised music. One exuberant, up-and-coming Swedish free jazz outfit is APUH! featuring members Adrian Åsling Sellius on saxophones and clarinets, percussionist Hampus Öhman-Frölund, and Mats Dimming on double bass, and this spring, they are touring the U.S. for the first time. Öhman-Frölund answered some questions for The Pulse, in advance of the group’s March 25 performance at Barking Legs Theater. The Pulse: Your improvisations have covered topics including “imaginary animals” and “missed funerals.” Do all three of you start with the same idea in mind before playing an improvisation? Hampus Öhman-Frölund: “Hoppaloppa,” “Göteborg havs” and “En Snigels Liv” from our latest release TVÅ are all improvisations based on a word or a phrase that someone came up with in the studio. Nothing more than that was planned by us all together. “Ivansviten”
has more of a set structure and a written riff, but is totally improvised within the frames of that structure. It was first played when we were on tour in Germany, while one of our relatives back in Sweden was saying goodbye to life on earth. TP: Do you have a favorite concert? HÖ: We’ve had a few concerts where the atmosphere has been pretty intense. We played in a tiny café in Kiel, Germany, a couple of years ago. Everybody was listening carefully, someone was meditating and someone was knitting. When we stopped playing no one understood that the concert was over. Not even us. It’s hard to describe, but it was like stepping into a film by Swedish director Roy Andersson. TP: Many people might not know that Sweden has a healthy and free jazz scene. How do you fit into the scene, and how would you describe it? HÖ: There’s definitely stuff going on in the Swedish free jazz/improvised scene. At the same time, the opportunities for bands like us to play are mostly made by ambitious individuals with a D.I.Y. way of thinking. People that arrange concerts with their own bands, friends’ bands and other bands they like are very important for the scene. APUH! has always been a D.I.Y. kind of band, and we’re trying to be a part of making the experimental scene grow as much as we can. TP: How did you get started playing free jazz? HÖ: We all come from different musical backgrounds, but our ways into the improvising world are fairly similar. Adrian was playing a lot of standard
jazz and started drifting to more collective improvisation from that. I was mostly playing in big bands and rock bands, and Mats was playing in a classical orchestra. You could say that we all wanted to explore what was beyond our normal habitat and challenge ourselves both as performers and as listeners. TP: Do you use any improvisational methods? HÖ: Sometimes we work with some kind of concept, sometimes we improvise from a set form, but the general idea with APUH! is to clear our minds and see where that takes us. We trust each other, sort of. TP: What do you want an audience to get from your music? What is “good” improvisational music to you? HÖ: The point with us improvising in front of an audience is to include the listener in our world. If someone walks home from an APUH! concert and can’t put his or her finger on what really happened, then we’re happy. We don’t want people to walk home thinking that we’re good at our instruments. Good improvised music appears when the musicians and the audience become one with the room. That requires a lot from the performers, but also the listeners. Good improvised music comes from your body and soul, not from your brain. CoPAC and the Shaking Ray Levi Society present: APUH! Friday, 8 p.m. Barking Legs Theater 1307 Dodds Ave. (423) 624-5347 barkinglegs.org CHATTANOOGAPULSE.COM • MARCH 24, 2016 • THE PULSE • 15
MUSIC CALENDAR THURSDAY3.24 String Theory with Alexander Sitkovetsky, Colin Carr, Gloria Chien 6:30 p.m. The Hunter Museum of Art 10 Bluff View Ave. huntermuseum.org James Crumble Trio 6 p.m. St. John’s Meeting Place 1278 Market St. stjohnsrestaurant.com Rick Rushing Blues Jazz N’ Friends 6 p.m. Bluewater Grille 224 Broad St. bluewaterchattanooga.com Live Bluegrass 6:30 p.m. Whole Foods Market 301 Manufacturers Rd. wholefoodsmarket.com Bluegrass Thursdays 7:30 p.m. Feed Co. Table & Tavern 201 W. Main St. feedtableandtavern.com Keepin’ It Local 8 p.m. The Social 1110 Market St. publichousechattanooga.com Dale Watson 8 p.m. Revelry Room 41 E. 14th St. revelryroom.co Open Mic with Hap Henninger 9 p.m. The Office @ City Cafe
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Dale Watson 901 Carter St. citycafemenu.com Dee O’Block Vinson with special guests 10 p.m. JJ’s Bohemia 231 E. MLK Blvd. jjsbohemia.com
FRIDAY3.25 Tree Tops 8 p.m. Clyde’s on Main 122 W. Main St. clydesonmain.com Mountain Opry 8 p.m. Walden’s Ridge Civic Center 2501 Fairmount Pike (423) 886-3252 APUH! 8 p.m.
PULSE PICK: WEBB WILDER Formed from Mississippi mud, tinged with British mod. Bruised by the blues. Baptized by Buck and Chuck. Psychiatric psycho-rootsy. Sizzling, glistening, uneasy listening. Webb Wilder Saturday, 9 p.m. Puckett’s Grocery 2 W. Aquarium Way puckettsgro.com
Barking Legs Theater 1307 Dodds Ave. barkinglegs.org Crossfire 8 p.m. Puckett’s Grocery 2 W. Aquarium Way puckettsgro.com Standing Room Only 8:30 p.m. The Foundry 1201 Broad St. chattanooganhotel.com Randall Adams 9 p.m. The Office @ City Cafe 901 Carter St. citycafemenu.com Mustache The Band 9 p.m. Revelry Room 41 E. 14th St. revelryroom.co Ramble in the Attic
9 p.m. T-Bone’s Sports Bar 1419 Chestnut St. tbonessportscafe.com Cinnamon Groove 9 p.m. World of Beer 412 Market St. wobusa.com Johnny Monster Band 9:30 p.m. Brew & Cue 5017 Rossville Blvd. (423) 867-9402 Moustache Friday 10 p.m. JJ’s Bohemia 231 E. MLK Blvd. jjsbohemia.com 8TRK 10 p.m. Bud’s Sports Bar 5751 Brainerd Rd. budssportsbar.com Trae Pierce 11 p.m. Raw Dance Club 409 Market St. rawbarandgrillchatt.com
SATURDAY3.26 Travis Bowlin Noon Thunder Creek Harley-Davidson 7720 Lee Hwy. thundercreekharley.com Sweet Georgia Sound 12:30 p.m. Tennessee Aquarium Plaza 1 Broad St. chattanoogarivermarket.com Eddie Pontiac
6 p.m. El Meson 2204 Hamilton Place Blvd. elmesonrestaurant.com Binji Varsossa 6 p.m. Cancun Mexican Restaurant & Lounge 1809 Broad St. (423) 266-1461 Tim Lewis 7 p.m. El Meson 248 Northgate Park elmesonchattanooga.com Trade Day Troubadours 7:30 p.m. Barking Legs Theatre 1307 Dodds Ave. barkinglegs.org Road to Nightfall Competition Finale 8 p.m. Revelry Room 41 E. 14th St. revelryroom.co Standing Room Only 8:30 p.m. The Foundry 1201 Broad St. chattanooganhotel.com Shamarr Allen 8:30 p.m. The Camp House 149 E. MLK Blvd. thecamphouse.com Ryan Oyer Duo 9 p.m. World of Beer 412 Market St. wobusa.com Webb Wilder 9 p.m. Puckett’s Grocery
2 W. Aquarium Way puckettsgro.com Jack Kirton 10 p.m. The Office @ City Cafe 901 Carter St. citycafemenu.com 8TRK 10 p.m. Bud’s Sports Bar 5751 Brainerd Rd. budssportsbar.com Joe Moorhead Band 10 p.m. Clyde’s on Main 122 W. Main St. clydesonmain.com Trae Pierce 11 p.m. Raw Dance Club 409 Market St. rawbarandgrillchatt.com
SUNDAY3.27 Open Mic with Jeff Daniels 6 p.m. Long Haul Saloon 2536 Cummings Hwy. (423) 822-9775 Chattanooga Symphony Orchestra Spring Concert 7:30 p.m. Fine Arts Center 615 McCallie Ave. utc.edu/fine-arts-center Brother Hawk, Bohannons, Chilhowee Royal 9 p.m. The Honest Pint 35 Patten Pkwy thehonestpint.com
MONDAY3.28 Open Air with Jessica Nunn 6 p.m. Granfalloon 400 E. Main St. granfalloonchattanooga.com Monday Nite Big Band 7 p.m. The Coconut Room 6925 Shallowford Rd. thepalmsathamilton.com There’s A Word For That with Nathan Bell 8 p.m. Barking Legs Theater 1307 Dodds Ave. barkinglegs.org Very Open Mic 8 p.m. The Well 1800 Rossville Blvd. #8 wellonthesouthside.com
TUESDAY3.29 Open Mic with Mike McDade 8 p.m. Tremont Tavern 1203 Hixson Pike tremonttavern.com
WEDNESDAY3.30 The Other Guys 6 p.m. SpringHill Suites 495 Riverfront Pkwy. (423) 834-9300 Eddie Pontiac 5:30 p.m.
MUSIC CALENDAR
Joe Mooehead Band
El Meson 248 Northgate Park elmesonrestaurant.com Courtney Daly Band 7 p.m. End Zone 3658 Ringgold Rd. (423) 661-8020 Charlie The Head 7 p.m. Jazzanooga Arts Space 431 E. MLK Blvd. jazzanooga.org Priscilla & Little Rickee 7 p.m. Las Margaritas 1101 Hixson Pike (423) 756-3332 Open Jam 8 p.m. Raw Bar & Grill 409 Market St. rawbarandgrillchatt.com Wednesday Night Jazz 8 p.m. Barking Legs Theater 1307 Dodds Ave. barkinglegs.org The Prime Cut Trio 9 p.m. The Coconut Room 6925 Shallowford Rd. thepalmsathamilton.com Blues Jam 9 p.m. The Office @ City Cafe 901 Carter St. citycafemenu.com Map these locations on chattanoogapulse.com. Send event listings at least 10 days in advance to: calendar@chattanoogapulse.com CHATTANOOGAPULSE.COM • MARCH 24, 2016 • THE PULSE • 17
RECORD REVIEWS PATRICK FILBIN
Robert Lee Keeps Wandering, Dream Jurnal Comes Alive Country Troubador Lee impress, Dream Jurnal gets down and dirty live
Robert Lee Wandering Soul (cdbaby.com)
I
t’s smoky in T-Bones Sports Bar like it always is. The Saturday crowd is buzzing with college football and cheap beers and greasy appetizers. Not a lot of seats are empty in the place and some stand in front of TVs or the bar. In the back of the room comes a voice, a strong one, sure and tuned to a deep, growled voice. Most of the crowd perks up and looks his way. For the next two hours, Robert Lee plays songs from his latest album, Wandering Soul, as well as covers of Jason Isbell, Tom Petty, and the handful of his own albums that came before this one. Wandering Soul starts off creatively. We hear someone seeking through an old radio, not able to find anything on. Our main character is on the road the whole journey, whether he’s looking out of the passenger window, bathed underneath the neon of Broadway or in a bar of his
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Dream Jurnal Live at JJs (dreamjurnal.bandcamp.com)
hometown. But there’s an angst and loneliness of our narrator. “I sit down at Harry’s Bar / toasted with folks from back home / Funny how in a crowd I can still feel alone,” Lee sings in the album’s opener, “The Road.” In “Watch the World Die,” an incredibly impressive guitar solo is the highlight of the track in a strongly mature and polished country song. Lee’s been doing this a while and you know this immediately after hearing this one. Lee tackles corruption, the criminal system, snitches and the mischievous characters in “American Dream,” a Springsteen-like tale of people getting caught up in the wrong in a world that’s only fit for the ones who work hard and keep their mouth shut. From top to bottom, Lee proves he can write a damn song. In “Wildflowers” he sings, “Tell me what part of you has come undone / Your eyes are like
wildflowers that stare down the sun.” Another thing a listener notices is how much editing Lee had to do to cut this record down to just ten songs. Every song is full and thoughtful, well-worn, road-tested and road-ready. I can go on and on about Lee and how talented of a songwriter he is. Performer, as well. But I’d run out of room and would still be gushing like a fanboy. I’ll end with this: He’s one of Chattanooga’s gems, so I strongly suggest you listen up and go see him before we lose him to a bigger city or just that old road itself.
A
live album should have energy. It should capture what it feels like to be in a room with an artist or a band. It should feel loose, feel messy, sound crunchy and less than perfect. The easiness of the words and music should be performed with more confidence as the set goes on. The nerves start on the first two songs and then they start to get in a rhythm, get used to the room, get the audience’s attention. Dream Jurnal gets just about all of this down in their new release, Live at JJs. The set was recorded in mid-February by Erik Simpson with the help of fellow singersongwriter Rachel Barr and John Cotton. The set starts off with a fast and over-before-you-know-
it song called “Monster.” Things start to get interesting in the next two tracks when “You’re Dark Character” and “You’re Going to Die” are contracting in their lyrics but similar in the melodic tones and conversational style of the lyrics. In the first, Simpson sings “We’re so alive that we can’t die,” and in the second, “You’re going to die, all alone.” From optimisms to such pessimism is tough to pull off, but Simpson and Barr do it seamlessly and confidently. Simpson keeps it dark and somber in “Song #1,” a song about his burial, full of silver dirt, vermin-filled hearts and beautifully dark imagery. The album rounds off with slower ballads like Barr’s “Star Dust” and their collaborative “Long Forgotten Things.” In the latter, both harmonize a lost love who is trying to find their way while the narrator is trying to find his or her own, both singing: “Where did you go when you’re alone, did you make it home? Will you ever make it home?” Hope returns in “Right On Time,” a song that alludes to the often forgotten pretty things in life, the simplicity of the sun going down in the western sky, things that can be left behind after we leave. The songwriting is personal and furnished in Dream Jurnal and we look forward to the time when they put out a studio produced album.
Free Will Astrology ARIES (March 21-April 19): When Orville and Wilbur Wright were kids, their father gave them a toy helicopter powered by a rubber band. The year was 1878. Twenty-five years later, the brothers became the first humans to sail above the earth in a flying machine. They testified that the toy helicopter had been a key inspiration as they worked to develop their pioneering invention. In the spirit of the Wright Brothers’ magic seed, Aries, I invite you to revive your connection to a seminal influence from your past. The coming weeks will be a favorable time to feed a dream that was foreshadowed in you a long time ago. TAURUS (April 20-May 20): “The task of a writer is not to solve the problem but to state the problem correctly,” said Russian writer Anton Chekhov. Whether or not you’re a writer, Taurus, that is also your special task in the coming weeks. The riddle that has begun to captivate your imagination is not yet ripe enough for you to work on in earnest. It has not been defined with sufficient clarity. Luckily, you have the resources you need to research all the contingencies, and you have the acuity to come up with a set of empowering questions. GEMINI (May 21-June 20): The good news is that if you eat enormous amounts of chocolate, you will boost your memory. Science has proved it. The bad news is that in order to get the full effect of the memory enhancement, you would have to consume so much chocolate that you would get sick. I propose that we consider this scenario as a metaphor for what may be going on in your life. Is it possible you’re doing things that are healthy for you in one way but that diminish you in another? Or are you perhaps getting or doing too much of a good thing—going to unbalanced extremes as you pursue a worthy goal? Now is a favorable time to figure out if you’re engaged in such behavior, and to change it if you are. CANCER (June 21-July 22): When the young director Richard Lester got his big break, he took full advantage. It happened in 1964, when the early Beatles asked him to do their first movie, A Hard Day’s Night. Lester’s innovative approach to the project propelled his career to a higher level that brought him many further opportunities. Writing of Lester’s readiness, critic Alexander Walker said, “No filmmaker…appeared more punctually when his hour struck.” That’s what I hope you will soon be doing in your own chosen field, Cancerian. Do you understand how important it will be to have impeccable timing? No procrastination or hemming and hawing, please. Be crisply proactive.
ROB BREZSNY
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): As a young man, the poet Arthur Rimbaud (1854-1891) left his home in France and settled in Abyssinia, which these days is known as Ethiopia. “I sought voyages,” he wrote, “to disperse the enchantments that had colonized my mind.” You might want to consider a similar strategy in the coming weeks, Leo. From an astrological perspective, it’s going to be an excellent time both to wander free of your usual haunts and to disperse the enchantments that have colonized your mind. Why not find ways to synergize these two opportunities? VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): At one point in his life, author C. S. Lewis had a rude awakening as he took stock of the progress he thought he had been making. “I am appalled to see how much of the change I thought I had undergone lately was only imaginary,” he wrote. I want to make sure that something similar doesn’t happen to you, Virgo. You’re in the midst of what should be a Golden Age of Self-Transformation. Make sure you’re actually doing the work that you imagine you’re doing—and not just talking about it and thinking about it. LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): “There are questions that you don’t ask because you’re afraid of the answers,” wrote Agatha Christie. I would add that there are also questions you don’t ask because you mistakenly think you already know the answers. And then there are questions you don’t ask because their answers would burst your beloved illusions, which you’d rather preserve. I’m here to urge you to risk posing all these types of questions, Libra. I think you’re strong enough and smart enough, and in just the right ways, to deal constructively with the answers. I’m not saying you’ll be pleased with everything you find out. But you will ultimately be glad you finally made the inquiries. SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): If you are enmeshed in a jumble that makes you squirm or if you are caught in a tangle that stifles your self-love, you have three choices. Here’s how Eckhart Tolle defines them: 1. Get out of the situation. 2. Transform the situation. 3. Completely accept the situation. Does that sound reasonable, Scorpio? I hope so, because the time has come to act. Don’t wait to make your decision. Do it soon. After that, there will be no whining allowed. You can no longer indulge in excuses. You must accept the consequences. On the bright side, imagine the new freedom and power you will have at your disposal. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Here’s a proposed experiment. Sidle up to a creature you’d love to be closer to, and softly sing the
Jonesin’ Crossword
MATT JONES
following lyrics: “Come with me, go with me. Burn with me, glow with me. Sleep with me, wake with me.” At this point, run three circles around the creature as you flap your arms like a birds’ wings. Then continue your singing: “Rise with me, fall with me. Work with me, play with me. Pray with me, sin with me.” At this point, leap up into the air three times, unleashing a burst of laughter each time you hit the ground. Continue singing: “Let me get high with you. Laugh with you, cry with you. Make me your partner in crime.” At this point blow three kisses toward the creature, then run away. (P.S. The lyrics I’m quoting here were composed by songwriter Fran Landesman.) CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): In getting energy from food, we humans have at our disposal over 50,000 edible plants. And yet we choose to concentrate on just a few. Wheat, corn, rice, and potatoes make up two-thirds of our diet, and 11 other staples comprise most of the rest. Let’s use this as a metaphor for the kind of behavior you should avoid in the coming weeks. I think it will be crucial for you to draw physical, emotional, and spiritual sustenance from a relatively wide variety of sources. There’s nothing wrong with your usual providers, but for now you need to expand your approach to getting the nurturing you need. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): “We teach each other how to live.” Poet Anne Michaels said that, and now I’m passing it on to you—just in time for the phase of your cycle when acting like a curious student is your sacred duty and your best gift to yourself. I don’t necessarily mean that you should take a workshop or enroll in a school. Your task is to presume that everyone you meet and every encounter you have may bring you rich learning experiences. If you’re willing to go as far as I hope you will, even your dreams at night will be opportunities to get further educated. Even your vigils in front of the TV. Even your trips to the convenience store to buy ice cream. PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): In her poem “Time,” Piscean poet Lia Purpura wonders about “not picking up a penny because it’s only a little luck.” Presumably she is referring to a moment when you’re walking down a street and you spy an almost-but-not-quite-worthless coin lying on the concrete. She theorizes that you may just leave it there. It adds next to nothing to your wealth, right? Which suggests that it also doesn’t have much value as a symbol of good fortune. But I urge you to reject this line of thought in the coming weeks, Pisces. In my astrological opinion, you’ll be wise to capitalize on the smallest opportunities. There will be plenty of them, and they will add up.
“Completing the Circle”—one letter update at a time. ACROSS 1 CBS drama spun off from “JAG” 5 Retired auto racer Teo ___ 9 “That was close!” 13 1966 Grammy winner Eydie 14 “___ stands ...” 15 First state to vote 16 Trap during a winter storm 17 Mah-jongg piece 18 Sketch look 19 Scrunch a sea mammal into a tiny space? 22 A googol divided by a googol 23 “It’s nothing ___ consequence” 24 “The Hunchback of ___ Dame” 28 Stefan who won six Grand Slam singles titles 30 Catching up to, with “on” 32 Put into piles 33 Specter 35 What old mattresses do 36 Big sea waves
for a Detroit union? 40 Ocean off Ga. and Fla. 42 Make like a 33-Across 43 For you and me 46 Whom to “take one for” 48 1990s Flockhart TV role 50 Apply, as pressure 51 Campbell’s spaghetti sauce brand 54 Kissing in front of everyone, e.g. 55 Memorize everything involving sugar suffixes? 58 “Falling Up” poet Silverstein 61 Earth sci. 62 Actor Tom of “The Dukes of Hazzard” 63 Lose it, in a way? 64 Bowling spot 65 Numbers ending in 8, e.g. 66 Pro votes 67 Suffix after hip or hoop 68 Yellow Muppet
DOWN 1 “Out of the question” 2 Dessert with a hardened layer 3 Phony, for short 4 Mister, in Rio 5 Ayatollah’s decree 6 Man from Manchuria 7 Farm animal with a beard 8 Anatomical duct 9 Name yelled in “Cast Away” 10 Earth mover 11 She for a shepherd 12 Hell, it’s said 13 Some action figures 20 CD followers? 21 Conglomerate 25 Gift bag padding 26 “Messenger” substance 27 Deviled item 29 Frat vowel 31 Entreat 33 Internet celebrity whose real name is Tardar Sauce 34 Farm female
37 Piques, as an appetite 38 “The sheep says ...” response, on a See ‘n Say 39 “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia” cocreator McElhenney 40 Had some grub 41 “Much appreciated,” in a text message 44 Shining 45 Biases 47 Creatures who cause trouble on walls? 48 Ball club VIP 49 String in the attic? 52 Former ABC executive ___ Arledge 53 Swiss mathematician Leonhard 56 Long swimmers 57 Travel randomly 58 Retreating 59 Paint swatch option 60 “Golden” time
Copyright © 2016 Jonesin’ Crosswords. For answers to this puzzle, call: 1-900-226-2800, 99 cents per minute. Must be 18+ to call. Or to bill to your credit card, call: 1-800-655-6548. Reference puzzle No. 0772 CHATTANOOGAPULSE.COM • MARCH 24, 2016 • THE PULSE • 19
SCREEN SCENE
What’s Beyond The Wall?
Why Allegiant failed to meet this book lover’s expectations
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A Twisted Labyrinth of Lies Jewish Film Series presents insightful German film The Ninth Annual Jewish Film Series continues on Wednesday, March 30th, with Labyrinth of Lies, Germany’s entry into the 2016 Academy Awards for Best Foreign Film. The movie takes place in Germany from 1958 to 1963 when the prevailing attitude about the Nazi past was willful amnesia and denial. A new West Germany is being built amid the refuse of the old. The next generation of Germans is creating a new life for themselves. They don’t know or care about Auschwitz, and their elders prefer it stays that way. This is a fact-based film based on
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the 1963-1965 Frankfort Auschwitz trials when twenty-two former Nazis were tried for murder. The movie will be screened at the Jewish Cultural Center on North Terrace beginning at 7 p.m. Tickets are $7.00 per person and include complimentary popcorn and a soft drink. Labyrinth of Lies In German, with English subtitles Wednesday, 7 p.m. Jewish Cultural Center 5461 N. Terrace (423) 493-0270 jewishchattanooga.com
NEW IN THEATERS
Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice Fearing the actions of Superman are left unchecked, Batman takes on the man of steel, while the world wrestles with what kind of a hero it really needs Director: Zack Snyder Stars: Ben Affleck, Henry Cavill, Amy Adams, Jesse Eisenberg
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My Big Fat Greek Wedding 2 And in the realm of "counter-programming" for those not into superheroes, a Portokalos family secret brings the beloved characters back together for an even bigger and Greeker wedding. Director: Kirk Jones Stars: Nia Vardalos, John Corbett, Michael Constantine, Lainie Kazan
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E’VE BEEN WAITING ALL THIS TIME TO SEE WHAT’S beyond the wall, and I’ll tell you plain and simple what’s beyond it: two hours of cut scenes with little explanation, a frustratingly hardheaded protagonist, puddles of radioactive waste that sort of look like cherry Jell-O before you refrigerate it, creepy surveillance systems that seem pretty stalkerish, and a lackluster ending.
Screen BROOKE DORN
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Tris does what she thinks is right, completely ignoring Four’s judgments and advice even though he has proven time and time again to be incredibly levelheaded on top of those chiseled good looks.”
As usual, Tris Prior is trying to save the world, and we love her for that. She’s made a serious transformation from the “Stiff ” she was at the start of the series to Dauntless she’s become— plus her longer haircut in this film is killing it. The only problem is her unwavering trust in others and herself when—sorry, feminists—she should really just listen to her boyfriend, Four aka Tobias Eaton. Just like in Insurgent, Tris does what she thinks is right, completely ignoring Four’s judgments and advice even though he has proven time and time again to be incredibly levelheaded on top of those chiseled good looks. Tris, Four, and a few others make their way on the other side of the wall following the reveal of a message that there is life outside their city of Chicago at the end of Insurgent. The scene in which they scale the wall is meant to be incredibly intense, but comes off as laughable thanks to cheesy explosions and the so clearly green-screen shot action of the group running up the wall with the help of grappling hooks and rope retracting-harnesses. They made a scene of Tris and Four scaling a hundred-something foot Ferris wheel in the first film look so realistic I felt nauseous in my seat, but the CGI
effects of Allegiant made me embarrassed for the actors who surely felt the same at the premieres. After scaling down a cliff and making a small trek through a radioactive wasteland made of red jelly-like substances, the group is met by members of the Bureau of Genetic Welfare and are each flown in incredibly cheesy jelly pods to the BGW. Upon their arrival, they’re greeted like celebrities and learn that children and adults have spent their lives watching as life unfolds in Chicago for Tris and the others through high-tech surveillance systems. Kinda shady or ridiculously shady? The ever-increasing dubiousness that surrounds the BGW causes riffs between Tris and Four as it is also divulged that her ‘divergence’ actually means that she is pure, and that everyone else, Four included, is damaged. David, the director of the BGW, requires Tris’ purity to convince The Council to save Chicago from the war brewing between Evelyn and Johanna for power, or so he says. Tris believes every word David tells her, while Four tries to be the voice of reason about who the BGW truly are. She is sucked into believing that all the ‘work’ the BGW is doing on
behalf of the Chicago experiment is good and for the betterment of the people, while Four has serious doubts. It’s hard to believe in your hero when she’s the most gullible protagonist possible. More than anything, this film’s worst quality was the insane amount of cut scenes with little to no explanation of where we were moving to or what we were doing there. We want details! It’s frustrating to go from a 500-something page book to a two-hour film in which you feel like you’ve run a mile after it was over due to the back and forth style of direction you experienced. I was originally upset that they’d tried to cram the entire book into one film, as this isn’t called Allegiant Part One but after some googling I’ve found that there will be a fourth movie to end the series called Ascendant. I can only hope that it is better than this one was considering the end was painfully dull. Where was the cliffhanger? The film’s most redeeming quality, however, would be Four’s fight scenes. The quick, hand-to-hand combat is way more engaging than anything else in this film, plus Four isn’t so bad to look at.
Consider This with Dr. Rick by Rick Pimental-Habib, Ph.D.
“We give dogs time we can spare, space we can spare and love we can spare. And in return, dogs give us their all. It’s the best deal man has ever made.” — M. Facklam “If there are no dogs in Heaven, then when I die I want to go where they went.” — Will Rogers There is lots of dog-walking going on in my neighborhood now that the weather’s turned warmer. My two and I stroll up and down the hills, regularly take open-windowed rides in the car, and recently spent a lazy afternoon in the park. As my friends and family (and many of you) know, I’m kind of in love with my pups. For the price of belly rubs, fetch and food, I get all the goofy entertainment, comforting company and tail-wagging unconditional love I could ask for. I am their Alpha; they, my teachers. Vet bills and Kibble costs notwithstanding, it’s the best deal going. This Spring I wish you lots of loving, slobbering affection. CHATTANOOGAPULSE.COM • MARCH 24, 2016 • THE PULSE • 21
COLUMN TECH TALK
Whose Gig Is It, Anyway? Tech Goes Home Chattanooga enables digital literacy countywide
RICH BAILEY
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Twenty years into the age of Internet it’s difficult, if not impossible, to compete educationally or in the job market if you lack Internet access and the knowledge of how to use the resources you could find there.”
Rich Bailey is a professional writer, editor and (sometimes) PR consultant. He led a project to create Chattanooga’s first civic website in 1995 before even owning a modem. Now he covers Chattanooga technology for The Pulse and blogs about it at CircleChattanooga.com
“We, like all cities and counties, have an issue of a digital divide,” says Kelly McCarthy. “People throw the term around all the time, but I’m not a huge fan of the term.” And while some people dismiss the idea of a digital divide because so many have Internet access on a smart phone, McCarthy says the issue is much deeper than lack of Internet access. “Think about everything you do in a day that requires a computer or a smart phone or Internet access, then think about what you would do if you had none of those things every single day of your life,” she says. “Generational poverty, socioeconomic status, educational disadvantages— there are so many things that go into that. You’re not just going to help someone get a computer and Internet access and their whole life is going to change. But you can’t expect their lives to change if they don’t have these things. That’s the reality.” Twenty years into the age of Internet it’s difficult, if not impossible, to compete educationally or in the job market if you lack Internet access and the knowledge of how to use the resources you could find there. McCarthy is the program director of Tech Goes Home Chattanooga, a digital literacy program of The Enterprise Center designed to help people in Chattanooga and Hamilton County cross that divide. They are working to change the lack of access and knowledge by offering a program of hands-on training, subsidizing the cost of a Google Chromebook or iPad mini and helping people understand their options for connectivity. “This is very much a program aimed at people who don’t have any of these things and helping them catch up and
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move forward,” she says. Participants go through a 15-hour course that teaches the basics of how to use the computer by walking them through 25 curated web resources in topics like money management, saving for college, health care, and Internet safety for children. Trainers tailor their instruction to the needs and interests of participants at different sites, serving both children and adults in urban and rural settings. Through a partnership with La Paz de Dios, some classes are taught in English and Spanish. “We’re trying very hard to disperse the sites we work with, because part of the program is about going to people where they are. “ For many people, there is a psychological barrier to overcome in stepping outside of their comfort zone. That’s why classes offered in churches are some of the most successful. “When we started, our first six sites had to take a huge leap of faith because we were brand new,” says McCarthy. “We were saying, ‘you can learn all these great skills, you’re going to become super comfortable using the computer, you’re going to get a brand new computer for $50 and we’ll help you sign up
for Internet.’ It sounds too good to be true, I recognized that. We had some very brave souls that tried it.” Just over a year later, the program has grown rapidly through word of mouth. The current round of classes, under way at 18 sites throughout Hamilton County, is reaching 335 individuals. So far, 729 individuals in 497 families have been through the program, and 483 subsidized devices (either a Chromebook or an iPad Mini for younger students) have been provided. Plans call for more than doubling those numbers in 2016. Students range in age from 4 to 84. About 72 percent are female, 76 percent are African-American or Latino, nearly 40 percent are unemployed and at least 65 percent earn less than $30,000 per year. Tech Goes Home Chattanooga was adapted from a successful program created in Boston. The curriculum is used in other locations around the country, but ours is the first countywide program and the second largest implementation of the program outside Boston, according to McCarthy. For information on volunteering as a teacher or establishing a class site, visit techgoeshomecha.org
CHATTANOOGAPULSE.COM • MARCH 24, 2016 • THE PULSE • 23