INsite Atlanta August 2009 Issue by INsite Magazine

Fall Education Guide ATL Pizza Joints Dragon*Con

Au g u s t 220F0R9EE

1 Vo l. 17, N o.

tainment Monthly r e t n E s ’ a t n Atla ta.com

insiteatlan

They’re Back! Atlanta’s Morning Rush Hour Returns

MEGAN FOX Marcy Playground Rachel McAdams Jeremy Piven Ciara

Atlanta Restaurant Deals pg. 11

August 29th & 30th

The Grant Park Summer Shade Festival Is Putting Some Of Atlanta’s Best Chefs In The Shade And Cool Beers & Wines On The Tables ��

Corks & Forks is a featured event during the Grant Park Summer Shade Festival. Enjoy Food from Atlanta’s top chefs and Wine & Craft Beer Tasting from 1:00pm-5:00pm each day. Then enjoy the art, music and fun of the Festival. Proceeds beneﬁt the Grant Park Conservancy and its efforts to restore Atlanta’s oldest park Participating restaurants include: Babette’s Cafe Bhojanic Cabot Creamery Canoe Dolcé

Eno Geisha House Graveyard Tavern JCT Kitchen Legal Seafoods Livingston Restaurant & Bar Metrotainment Bakery Murphy’s

ONE midtown kitchen PARISH Foods Peasant Bistro Rathbun’s Rise Sushi Lounge Rosebud Six Feet Under Pub & Fish House TAP

The Melting Pot The Shed at Glenwood The Sun Dial Restaurant, Bar & View Trader Vic’s Trois TWO urban licks Woodﬁre Grill

$35 in advance/$45 at the door (if available). Separate tickets sold for Saturday & Sunday. For a complete listing and ticket purchase please visit www.summershade.org or call 404-521-0938.

PG 2 • insiteatlanta.com • August 2009

STS9 RETURNS TO ATLANTA!

GHOSTLAND OBSERVATORY

BASSNECTAR

DUBCONSCIOUS

LOTUS

ALEX B (OF PNUMA) DARK PARTY FEATURING ELIOT LIPP & LEO 123 LIMITE

$19. D LAWN 75

S AVAILA EATS BLE!

SATURDAY, AUGUST 22ND 5PM SHOW! - ALL AGES

STS9’S ONLY ATLANTA SHOWS OF 2009! STS9 ALSO PERFORMS AT THE TABERNACLE - FRIDAY, AUGUST 21ST VISIT WWW.STS9.COM FOR TWO DAY PASSES. “PEACEBLASTER : THE NEW ORLEANS MAKE IT RIGHT REMIXES” a collection of thirty STS9 remixes featuring Pretty Lights, Richard Devine, The Glitch Mob and more! 100% of the proceeds from this release go to beneﬁt the Make It Right Foundation of New Orleans. Find it on iTunes now.

E Tickets available at all outlets including Publix Supermarkets. ON SAL NOW! Charge-by-phone: 1.800.745.3000 Buy online: TICKETMASTER.COM VZWAMP.COM

The venue is conveniently located off GA-400 in Alpharetta, GA.

All artists and schedules subject to change without notice. Concerts rain or shine. All prices subject to service charge.

PG 3 • insiteatlanta.com • August 2009

Dining at Chin Chin is pure pleasure

CONTENTS • AUGUST 2009 • VOLUME 17.12

��

�� Buckhead/Brookhaven �� East Cobb �� Springs

2008 Best Chinese – Sunday Paper

��

2001-2002 Best Chinese by Atlanta Jewish Times Readers 1998-2007 Best Chinese by Creative Loafing "Mouthwatering Chin Chin spices things up." – AJC

��

"Chin Chin...a window into Hong Kong." – Buckhead Weekly 2 1/2 Stars – Knife & Fork

�� DELIVERY (LIMITED AREA; MIN $10)

�� FULL BAR SERVICE

WWW.CHINCHINONLINE.COM Watch our Open Kitchen & Experience the Art of Chinese Cooking!

ECLECTIC, EUROPEAN ATMOSPHERE, AMERICAN CUISINE WITH A SOUTHERN TWIST

“Best Patio Dining” Critics Choice, Creative Loaﬁng 2006 Best of Atlanta Issue

“Best Seafood”

Best of Citysearch 2006, 2007 & 2008

“Best Fisherman’s Stew” Atlanta Magazine

�� 1042 West College Ave., Decatur, GA 30030 �� PG 4 • insiteatlanta.com • August 2009

Atlanta’s

Entertainment Monthly

INTERVIEWS 10 JEREMY PIVEN 12 MEGAN FOX 14 RACHEL MCADAMS 18 CIARA 21 ZEE AVI 23 MARCY PLAYGROUND 26 STARS FROM 500 DAYS 27 ALEXIS BLEDEL 27 FRANK TURNER 28 LYFE JENNINGS 28 JON SNODGRASS

FEATURES

08 PIZZA 11 ON A DIME RESTAURANTS 15 DRAGON*CON 22 JAMAICAN MUSIC 24 EDUCATION GUIDE 29 SPORTS NEXT BIG THINGS 29 COLLEGE NIGHT AT HIGH

COLUMNS 05 ON TAP 05 ON A DIME EVENTS 06 AROUND TOWN 06 BOOKS 07 UNDER THE LIGHTS 13 MOVIE REVIEWS 16 CONCERT CALENDAR 19 ROAD WARRIORS 19 WE GOT NEXT 20 ALBUMS 30 FANATIC

www.insiteatlanta.com STAFF LISTING Publisher Stephen Miller steve@insiteatlanta.com National Managing Editor Bret Love bret@insiteatlanta.com Art Director Michael T. graphics@insiteatlanta.com Music / Sports Editor DeMarco Williams demarco@insiteatlanta.com Events Listing Editor Glenn LaFollette glenn@insiteatlanta.com Special Features Editor Marci Miller marci@insiteatlanta.com Entertainment Editor Matt Goldberg matt@insiteatlanta.com Web Design Michael T. graphics@insiteatlanta.com

Contributing Writers / Interns: John Moore, John Davidson, Jon Latham, John C. Snider Benjamin Carr, Ryan Loftis, Mike Brune, Matt Goldberg Mitchell Hughes, Alexis Gray, Rodney Hill, Rebecca Crosby, Zena Scott, Alex S. Morrison, Blue Sullivan Michele Fontanelli Arnett, Roger Presswood, Dave Cohen, Russ Marshalek and Jennifer Sefa-Boakye CONTACT US 2250 North Druid Hills Rd. #234 Atlanta, GA 30329-3118 phone 404-315-8485 website insiteatlanta.com ADVERTISING INFORMATION �� Editorial content of INsite is the opinion of each writer and is not necessarily the opinion of INsite, its staff, or its advertisers. INsite does not knowingly accept false or mi leading advertising or editorial content, nor do the publisher or editors of INsite assume responsibility should such advertising or editorial appear. No content, i.e., articles, graphics, designs and information (any and all) in this publication may be reproduced in any manner without written permission from publisher.

LOCAL EVENTS

OnTap this Month EMAIL EVENTS TO ONTAP@INSITEATLANTA.COM

August 15 : Piedmont Park

PAUL MCCARTNEY

Legendary rocker Sir Paul McCartney headlines the 2009 Green Concert at Piedmont Park. Expect hits like “Hey Jude” and songs off his new album. Joining McCartney will be The Script, an Irish trio whose blend of R&B, hip-hop and pop has been branded as Celtic Soul. This year's concert marks the 20th anniversary of the Piedmont Park Conservancy and the environmentally themed event will serve to raise funds for the park's 53-acre expansion and maintenance, while promoting environmental sustainability. For more information, visit www.piedmontpark.org.

August 29-30: Historic Grant Park

SUMMER SHADE FESTIVAL

This two day celebration is filled with food, art, music and fun for the entire family. There is much to see and do at this weekend festival including an artist market, live music, food vendors, a children's fun center and the 5K Run For the Park on Saturday morning. Stay late on Saturday for a Movie Under the Stars, and make sure to attend Corks & Forks -- A Fine Food & Wine Event which features signature dishes from top Atlanta chefs/restaurants paired with local and international wines. For more information, visit www.summershade.org

EVENTS HAPPENING FOR SMALL CHANGE IN ATLANTA

Know about a low cost event or happening in Atlanta? Email Event@AtlantaOnADime.com

FALCONS TRAINING CAMP

Thru August 14 at various times; FREE 4400 Falcon Parkway www.atlantafalcons.com/trainingcamp 770.965.2752 This month, fans have a unique opportunity to get a behind-the-scenes, all-access view of the Atlanta Falcons. The team will hold their pre-season training at their Flowery Branch headquarters and select morning and afternoon practices will be free and open to the public through August 14. Another free event is Roam the Dome on August 8 at 10:30 a.m at the Georgia Dome. Fans will experience a simulated game, and can then participate in skills games on the field and a limited autograph session. The scrimmage is set to begin around 12:30 p.m.

UNPLUGGED IN THE PARK

August 29: Woodruff Park

GERMAN BIERFEST

Begin your search for the greatest beer in the world at the 6th Annual German Bierfest in Woodruff Park. This is a great opportunity to drink some of Germany's best beers, from popular ones like Becks to some rare brews, including the smoky Schlenkerla Rauchbier, the powerful EKU, or the trendy Koelsch. The German Bierfest is a family friendly event and kids will have a fun zone all to themselves while the tasting goes on. Non beer drinkers/designated drivers can also join in the festivities absolutely free. For more information, visit www.germanbierfest.com.

September 4-6: Downtown Decatur

DECATUR BOOK FESTIVAL

As one of the largest independent book festivals in the nation, authors and book lovers join together in a festive environment. The three day literary extravaganza has something for everyone, including book signings, author readings, topically diverse panel discussions, an interactive children's area, live music, parades, cooking demonstrations, poetry slams, writing workshops, a wrestling match, and more. Guests at this year's festival include Charlaine Harris, Robert Olen Butler, Mary Chapin Carpenter, and Sara Gruen. For more information, visit www.decaturbookfestival.com.

September 4-7: Downtown Atlanta

DRAGON * CON

The nation’s largest multi-media, popular culture convention is back this Labor Day Weekend. This year’s topics include science fiction and fantasy, gaming, comics, literature, art, music, and film. Plus there will be reading sessions, live music performances, short film screenings and autograph sessions. Also don’t miss the Dragon*Con Parade. Celebrity guests include Malcolm McDowell (A Clockwork Orange, Heroes), Leonard Nimoy (Star Trek), Felicia Day (The Guild) and Terry Gillam (Monty Python), just to name a few. For more information, visit www.dragoncon.org

September 5: Georgia Dome

CHICK-FIL-A COLLEGE KICKOFF

This annual college football event will pit the Virginia Tech Hokies against last year's winners the Alabama Crimson Tide. Dubbed the "Daytona 500 of College Football" both teams have a spot in the top ten pre-season projections, so it is no surprise that the Georgia Dome sold out of the allotted 62,200 tickets nearly two months before the game. If you're not one of the lucky fans who managed to get the tickets beforehand, ESPN will broadcast the game nationwide on ABC at 8 p.m. For more information, visit www.cfack.com

Every Sunday night through October 7:00pm - 11:00 pm FREE 500 10th Street NE @ Park Tavern www.parktavern.com 404.249.0001 Atlanta's longest running and most popular concert series is back for its 7th season of free music in Piedmont Park. Unplugged in the Park offers free, one-of-a-kind stripped down performances from popular artists. Park Tavern, overlooking Piedmont Park and the Atlanta skyline, is the perfect backdrop for these sunset performances. Upcoming performers this month include Rudy Vaughn, Sonia Leigh & Hightide Blues. Check the website for the full schedule.

residency. There is a maximum of four tickets per resident, including one parking pass. The program will feature sixteen-year-old guest conductor Ilyich Rivas, who will lead the ASO in his U.S. professional debut with a major American orchestra. All lawn tickets will be eligible for standard day-of-concert seating upgrades upon arrival at the venue for $5 or $10 per ticket.

ARTSPALOOZA

August 15, 22 & 29; 10:00am -2:30pm Woodruff Arts Center FREE 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta www.yawac.org 404.814.4018 Experience three fun-filled days of interactive activities and performances from more than 30 leading performers in jazz, Latin music, circus arts, world percussion, mime, opera and comedy. Artsapalooza serves to provide teachers, administrators and parents with the opportunity to observe each of the Young Audiences' artists in action in order to better plan in-school arts experiences for the coming school year. Space is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit the website to learn more and register.

HOP CITY’S SWEETWATER BEER TASTING

Wednesday, August 19; 5:00pm-7:00pm Octane Coffe Bar & Lounge; FREE 1009-B Marietta St., Atlanta www.octanecoffee.com 404.815.9886 In conjunction with Hop City, a new wine & beer shop located on Atlanta's west side, Octane will be hosting a free tasting featuring two Sweetwater Brewery beers. Come sample the brewery's new beer, Big Blue Balls along with a seasonal beer called Motorboat, which will be available in bottles later in August. A great event for all Atlanta hop heads.

FESTIVAL PEACHTREE LATINO

THE MARKET AT PEMBERTON PLACE

Sunday, August 23, 10:00-7:30pm Underground Atlanta; FREE 50 Upper Alabama St., Atlanta www.festivalpeachtreelatino.com 404.321.0663

Located outside the museum on The World of Coca-Cola green space, The Market at Pemberton Place is a complimentary open air experience filled with art, music and food. The market will feature a wide variety of outdoor activities including various artist tents, bottle sand art, a DJ booth, free beverage sampling, plus many other great things for family fun.

With more than 70,000 visitors expected, this event is billed as one of the largest family & multicultural events in the southeast, Festival Peachtree Latino will feature hundreds of exhibitions, family activities, sporting events, parades, arts & crafts, ethnic foods and outdoor musical performances on two stages at Underground Atlanta. This year, the festival has more to offer, with new attractions and a larger schedule of musical performances.

Saturday, August 8 & September 5 10:00am - 6:00pm; FREE The World of Coca-Cola www.worldofcoca-cola.com 404.676.5151

ASO FREE SUMMER CONCERT

Sunday, August 15, 8:00pm; FREE Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre 2200 Encore Parkway, Alpharetta www.vzwamp.com 404.733.5010 The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra will offer 4,000 FREE lawn tickets to all Fulton County residents for its final concert of the summer season. The free tickets may be obtained by visiting the Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre box office or the Woodruff Arts Center box office, in person, with proof of Fulton County

ACOUSTIC MONDAYS

Every Monday Night, 9:00pm, FREE The Five Spot 1123 Euclid Avenue, Atlanta www.fivespot.atl.com 404.223.1100 Known as a staple of music and arts in the heart of Little Five Points, The Five Spot offers a free Monday night acoustic concert. The Joe schedule for August includes: McGuinness (August 3), Mudcat (August 10), Holly Belle (August 17) , Holly Howell (August 24) and Brian Lavelle (August 31). The Five Spot also has a selection of over 100 beers and a gourmet-style deli menu that stays open late. The venue also features live art, short films and animations. Atlanta on a Dime by Marci Miller

ATLANTA ON A DIME! Receive updated events weekly. Sign up by e-mailing newsletter@insiteatlanta.com Enter on subject line: Sign Me Up INsite!

PG 5 • insiteatlanta.com • August 2009

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DEFINITELY NOT BLISS

At the Feminist Women’s Health Center’, we provide all the FACTS you need to understand your own body and to make the best choices for your health care. �� 1924 Cliff Valley Way Atlanta, GA 30329

404-728-7900 www.feministcenter.org PG 6 • insiteatlanta.com • August 2009

Surgi-Center License 044-287

��

Book Reviews JOEY KRAMER’S HIT HARD: A STORY OF HITTING ROCK BOTTOM AT THE TOP BY JOHN B. MOORE And you thought the drugs were a problem? The success the guys in Aerosmith had in the late ‘70s and early ‘90s is matched only by their mythic reputation for hoovering up mountains of blow throughout the early part of their careers. In Hit Hard: A Story of Hitting Rock Bottom at the Top, Aerosmith drummer Joey Kramer touches a little on his troubles with drugs, but spends the bulk of the book talking about issues surrounding his depression, as well as longtime relationship troubles with his father, wife and even fellow band member and childhood hero Steven Tyler. The book begins in 1995 with the band stationed down in Florida to start work on a new album, when Kramer suﬀers a debilitating nervous breakdown and is sent oﬀ to California to deal with it. What follows is an emotional telling of his abusive childhood and the eventual founding of the band, which brings with it a whole new set of ups and downs. Kramer is remarkably frank in his telling of the dealings with his band members and relatives. The book is far more honest than one would expect, and his knack for storytelling is just as impressive. There are plenty of villains, from sleazy managers and hangers-on to the band members themselves when they were all buried under their own addictions. By the end of the book, Kramer has made peace with his since-deceased father, left his wife and moved onto a new life. But he is still playing drums alongside his “band of brothers,” the same guys that helped contribute to some of the very problems he’s spent the past couple of decades trying to get over. (B)

Under The Lights

New Theatrical Performances Playing this Month

GREASE

August 7-16 Fabulous Fox Theatre Box Office 404.881.2100 www.foxtheatre.org

Available in Stores August 18th

PHOTO BY NICK RUECHEL

Photo by Joan Marcus

Due to popular demand, Theatre of the Stars has added additional shows to the previously announced engagement of Grease. After spending a hopelessly devoted summer with Sandy Dumbrowski, the new girl in town, Danny Zuko's world is thrown upside down when Sandy appears at Rydell High on the first day of school. What follows is a rock n' roll celebration of growin' up, cruisin' with friends and going steady. The new production of Grease features songs from the smash hit 1978 motion picture for the first time ever in a Broadway production including “Sandy,” the Academy Award nominated song “Hopelessly Devoted to You,” “Grease” and “You’re the One That I Want”. These songs will be heard in addition to the Jacobs/Casey songs made famous by the original stage production including “Summer Nights,” “Greased Lightnin’” and “We Go Together.” Platinum-selling recording artist and “American Idol” winner, Taylor Hicks, will join the production as “Teen Angel” beginning on Tuesday, August 11. Hicks made his Broadway debut in the role of “Teen Angel.”

AND JERRY SPRINGER

MACHOMER

APPROPRIATE FOR AGES 13+

August 26-30 Oglethorpe Box Office 404.264.0020

Tues. Sept. 8–Sun. Sept. 13

www.gashakespeare.org

Georgia S h a k e sp e are offers a clever view on MacBeth this month with MacHomer. Written and performed by Rick Miller, MacHomer is the one-man, hilarious take on Shakespeare's classic; performed in over 50 voices from Photo by Michael Cooper TV's "The Simpsons". The script remains 85% Shakespeare, is 70minutes long and suitable for all ages. "We are thrilled to bring Rick Miller's MacHomer to our stage," says Georgia Shakespeare's producing artistic director Richard Garner. “MacHomer is sure to please Shakespeare lovers, 'Simpsons' fans, and anyone who enjoys a fun night out with friends." MacHomer is directed by Sean Lynch, with lighting and stage design by Beth Kates. Georgia Shakespeare performs at the Conant Performing Arts Center on the campus of Oglethorpe University.

consignment shops

AT THE

LIVE ON

FOX THEATRE

800-982-2787

STAGE ticketmaster.com

PRICE TICKETS

TUES, SEPT. 8 & WED, SEPT. 9 SHOWS ONLY!

ALWAYS BUYING CURRENT MALL CLOTHES SANDY SPRINGS (404) 255-5578

PSYCHOSISTERSSHOPS.COM

90’S GOTHIC

GRAND �OPENING �

LITTLE FIVE POINTS (404) 523-0100

ROCK SPRINGS PLAZA

PSYCHO-SISTERS.COM

( NEXT TO TACO CABANA)

PIEDMONT/CHESHIRE BRIDGE 1879 PIEDMONT RD

WE PAY MORE $ FOR USED CLOTHES $3 OFF Purchase of $10 or more

PG 7 • insiteatlanta.com • August 2009

Taste of the Month-Pizza! Mo’s Pizza

3109 Briarcliff Rd. 404.320.1258 www.mospizza.com

You may know about the burrito chain with the same name, but the original Mo’s resides on the corner of Briarcliff and Clairmont Roads. They have been serving up great pizza in Atlanta for almost 30 years! Mo’s menu isn’t limited to pizza either: sandwiches, subs, wings, nachos and salads ensure that anybody who comes here can find something they like. Unlike many of the chain restaurants, they don’t buy their ingredients in bulk. Mo’s Pizza uses only the freshest ingredients. They make their own dough and grind their cheese daily. Come to Mo’s this fall to watch all your college and pro football games. They have a great deck to hang out on and plenty of HD Flat Screens offering great views from any table. Stop in Monday nights and get a Large Cheese Pizza for just $7.50! Mo’s is one of the longest running pizza joints in Atlanta, come in and see why they are one of the best!

Johnny’s NY Style Pizza Multiple Area Locations www.johnnysPizza.com Johnny’s Pizza has come to be synonymous with great pizza and subs in Atlanta. It was originally started in 1965 in Manlius N.Y. In

1977 two partners moved to Atlanta to start the first location in Georgia; East Point. That location was an instant success and their second Atlanta location opened on Cheshire Bridge Rd. (shown) one year later. There are now Johnny’s Pizza restaurants in eight southern states and over 50 in Georgia alone.

The secret to their success is in the preparation. They always use the finest ingredients. Johnny’s specializes in NY style pizza, which is thin in the middle and thick around the edges. They have several house specialties including the Johnny’s Deluxe, Italian Special, Veggie Deluxe, Steak & Cheese, Pesto and Buffalo Chicken. Johnny’s also offers plenty of individual toppings to create your own masterpiece. In addition to their fantastic pizza, Johnny’s offers subs, salads, sandwiches, and other popular Italian dishes including calzones, strombolis, and lasagna. Johnny’s restaurants offer dine-in, take-out and delivery.

friendly service. Athens Pizza is Zagat rated and has been voted Best Greek Cuisine by several publications. They offer a variety pizzas for as low as $3.95 (toppings extra). Specialty pizzas range from $6.45 for a 6” to $22.35 for a 16”. Don’t let the name fool you, there is much more than great pizza, as some of the favorite recipes on their Greek dishes go back 30 years and more! Also available are an assortment of wraps, platters and subs. Athens Pizza offers daily specials for lunch and dinner. They have an extensive catering menu that can be found on their website. The restaurant can also accomodate large parties and a private room is available for smaller ones.

word of mouth. The location became an immediate success. As Mike explains, “We commit ourselves to the customers being happy and make sure to thank them for coming to Chicago Nancy’s.” Part of what keeps them coming is the freshness of their pizza. Dough is made from scratch every day, vegetables and toppings are delivered daily and their fresh spices are imported from all over the world. Since 1974, when Rocco Palese of Nancy's invented stuffed pizza, (Rocco is recognized as the official inventor of stuffed pizza) the Chicagoland pizzerias have been serving deep dish pizza along with its very popular thin pizzas. Nancy's serves up thin and deep dish as well as take and bake pizza, appetizers, sandwiches and their signature salads. Chicago’s Nancy’s offers take-out and delivery and is the perfect place to call when planning a get-together this fall.

Savage Pizza 484 Moreland Ave. 404.523.0500 115 Laredo Dr. @ Clarendon 404.299.5799 www.savagepizza.com

Chicago’s Nancy’s Midtown

265 Ponce De Leon 404.885.9199 www.GreatPizzainAtlanta.com The name Chicago conjures up images of some of the best pizza in the USA, and that great pizza can be found in Midtown Atlanta at Chicago’s Nancy’s. Mike Glover opened Chicago’s Nancy's on Ponce de Leon with great

Athens Pizza House 1341 Clairmont Rd. Decatur 404.636.1100 athenspizzaatlanta.com For 32 years, the Papadopoulos family has been serving up great Greek and Italian cuisine to the Emory / Decatur area. When you walk through the door, the spirit of the Papadopoulos family eminates. You can taste the love in their food and are warmed by their

With their homage to comic book super heroes adorning the walls and hip staff, Savage Pizza fits right in with the Little Five Points neighborhood. On Savage's menu you'll find innovative homemade sauces, fresh dough and thoughtfully prepared dishes made from scratch every day. They prepare all the recipes using only freshest vegetables and first quality meats, cheeses, breads and pastas. Savage’s hand-tossed crusts are thrown with real hands and get enough air to make Tony Hawk jealous.

www.baldinos.us

AUGUST SPECIALS

MONDAY – Baldinos Extra Special (#7) TUESDAY – Like it Hot? Grilled & Toasted The HOT Italian WEDNESDAY – Ham it Up - (#5) Boiled Ham & Cheese w/ soup or side THURSDAY – “Check Out The Chicken” Your Choice #20, #21, #23 FRIDAY – Meatless Combo - Tuna (#10) or Veg Stir Fry (#27) w/ side SATURDAY – Steak Out- A-Steak Sub Your Choice (#11,13, or 19) SUNDAY – American Special - (#14) w/ choice of soup or side

Marietta 80 Powers Ferry Rd 770-321-1177 (closed Sundays)

1FREE Small Pizza WITH PURCHASE OF 1 LARGE PIZZA Dine in or Take-out. Not to be combined with any other offer. Exp. 9/15/09

All Day!

Doraville 5697 Buford Hwy. 770-455-8570

VOTED BEST SUBS IN ATLANTA

PLENTY OF OUTDOOR SEATING ON OUR LARGE DECK! · 120” Scree ns · Sit Down Restaurant · Full Bar · Free Wi Fi

�� (404) 842-9997 PG 8 • insiteatlanta.com • August 2009

$3.49

Great Subs, Sandwiches, Salads & Wings Carrying College & Pro Football on Multiple Plasma Screens Since 1980

$7.50 LARGE CHEESE PIZZA

(Mondays Only)

Just off I-85 @ Clairmont (Corner of Briarcliff & Clairmont)

3109 Briarcliff Rd. | 404-320-1258

Taste of the Month-Pizza In addition to their famous pizzas, they also have calzones, salads, subs and pasta. Savage serves both lunch and dinner with indoor and outdoor seating and offers catering and delivery. Check out their newest location in Avondale Estates. This location offers the same great menu as the original as well as patio seating and delivery to the area.

Fritti 309 N. Highland Ave. 404.880.9559 www.frittirestaurant.com

Located in the heart of Inman Park, Fritti is Atlanta's most elegant pizza restaurant. They are nationally recognized for their pizza with continuous outstanding reviews and awards. Among them are “Best Pizza” by Citysearch and Creative Loafing as well as John Kessler’s Top 50 restaurants. Fritti serves authentic Neapolitan Pizza and is prepared according to traditional artisan methods. The dough is made with Caputo flour, natural yeast and salt. They use San Marzano tomatoes, buffalo mozzarella and bake their pizzas in a 700 degree wood burning oven. Among their great variety of pizzas include: The Salsiccia e Pepperoni (Italian sausage and roasted peppers); the Estiva (Fresh tomato, red onion, arugula); and the Speck e Rucola (Smoked prosciutto, smoked mozzarella, cherry tomatoes and arugula). Fritti is known for their great value. For lunch Fritti offers a variety of Anti-pasta dishes for $10 or less including offerings of Portobello mushrooms, fresh calamari, and Sicilian risotto and sausage croquettes. They have an assortment of salads from $8 including their Caesar, Insalata Mista (assorted greens) and Insalata di Rucola (Arugula and red onion). For Dinner, you are able to choose from their wide selection of Antipasti for just $4, three for $11, or five for $18. Most items on the menu are offered for Lunch and Dinner. Fritti is also open for Brunch on Sundays.

Fellini’s Pizza Multiple Area Locations www.fellinisatlanta.com As The Varsity is with hamburgers, Fellini’s is to Atlanta for pizza. Their restaurants are landmarks. The fact that all seven locations are always bustling can be attributed to the great pizzas they make here. They have kept their menu simple, and focus on what they do best. Fellini’s pizzas can be

ordered by the slice or as medium, large and sicilian sizes. Try the classic Fellini’s special; which consists of pepperoni, mushrooms, itlaian sausage, onions, meatballs, green peppers, green and black olives, and extra cheese. Another popular menu item is the White Pizza with mozzarella cheese, fresh garlic, oregano, and ricotta cheese. They also have a great Spinach and Mushroom pizza, and a Vegetarian pizza filled with meatless toppings. Fellini’s also serves 5 different types of Calzones and great Salads. Fellini’s uses only the freshest ingredients. All there locations have large patios to enjoy the outdoors and the view. So come to one of the Fellini’s locations today and you will see why they are the landmark of Atlanta pizza.

Chicago’s Nancy’s Buckhead 3167 Peachtree Rd. (Buckhead Exchange) www.NancysPizza.com 404.841.7579

Coming from one of the toughest pizza markets in the world, Chicago IL, you know the pizza here is good. Chicago’s Nancy’s is known for their stuffed pan pizza. It all starts with the dough which they make from scratch every day. For their sauce they use plum tomatoes, picked, hand sorted, peeled and put into cans within six hours of coming off the vine. The Buckhead location offers a full dining room for lunch and dinner. They also have an expanded menu with appetizers ranging from Mozzarella Sticks, to Chicken Tenders and Buffalo Wings served in several varieties. They have a great Caesar Salad as well as new Buffalo Chicken and Spinach salads. Great sandwiches served up include the Roasted Italian Beef, Chicken Florentine and the ever popular Italian Meatball Sandwich. Pizza’s are made Deep Dish, Traditional or Super thin. There are a variety of toppings and specialty pizzas to choose from. Bring your friends to the Buckhead location this fall as they will have all the football action on their flat screen TV’s.

Your Neighborhood Pizzeria!

BEST PIZZA!

& WWW.SAVAGEPIZZA.COM

Multiple Atlanta Locations: www.JohnnysPizza.com PG 9 • insiteatlanta.com • August 2009

THE GOODS ON

FILM INTERVIEW

JEREMY PIVEN BY B. LOVE

AISED IN CHICAGO BY TWO acting teacher parents (who founded the Piven Theatre Workshop), Jeremy Piven had been a working actor in Hollywood for nearly two decades before Entourage made him an overnight sensation at the age of 39. Now, after years of scene-stealing supporting turns in films such as Grosse Pointe Blank, Very Bad Things and Old School, Piven is finally getting the above-the-title treatment with The Goods: Live Hard, Sell Hard, which was produced by Will Ferrell and Adam McKay. The film finds Piven playing Don Ready, a slick, fasttalking salesman who travels from town to town with his ragtag team (including Ving Rhames and David Koechner) helping struggling used car lots hawk their wares. Which is precisely what Piven was doing for The Goods when he passed through Atlanta, conducting a Q&A after a local screening of the film, pressing the flesh with fans and employees at The Varsity, then sitting down with us for this little intimate chat about his life and career…

with me, so acting came into my life without this sense of desperation people have when they’re doing it for a paycheck. I think that’s the best approach for anyone who’s going into acting. Were you part of Chicago’s huge improv scene? Yeah, I’ve been studying improv since I was a kid. We would perform these short stories, and then wrap around them with improv. As soon as I got out of college I started working with Second City, where I was in the touring company with Chris Farley. We never worked together, but we started out there around the same time. How do you think your theatre background has helped you as a film and TV actor? I think it’s pretty much everything, because once you conquer being in front of a live audience, riding their energy, knowing when to let a laugh die down and when to hit ‘em again, all of that bodes well when you’re working in front of a camera. But at the same time you’re no longer playing to the back row. One of the great lessons I learned from Tim Robbins was, no matter how big you’re getting in a performance, to always ground yourself in sincerity. There are times when I’m playing Ari Gold when I’m so larger than life, it’s almost like Kabuki theatre. But you’ve got to dial it back to fit the medium and be realistic or you risk coming off like you’re doing a monster movie.

I WOULD DEFINE SUCCESS AS BEING A WORKING ACTOR, WHICH I’M LUCKY ENOUGH TO BE. AFTER ABOUT 50 MOVIES, I’VE GOT SUCH RESPECT FOR THOSE WHO CAME BEFORE ME, WHICH IS WHY I WOULD TAKE A TINY ROLE IN A MOVIE WITH DUSTIN HOFFMAN (RUNAWAY JURY), MORGAN FREEMAN (KISS THE GIRLS) OR ROBERT DENIRO (HEAT).

Your character has a great flashback in the film to the childhood moment in which he first realized that selling cars was his destiny. Did you have a similar epiphany about becoming an actor? I did, actually. I started getting up on stages with my parents in Chicago when I was eight years old. But it wasn’t until I got to college and was doing plays like Julius Caesar that I had that moment you’re talking about. My parents came out to see me in this production, and they’d always been my acting teachers, so this was the first time they’d seen me doing my thing away from home. Afterwards, they said, “You should be doing this for a living,” and that was a huge shot in the arm for me. It was a turning point, and it encouraged me to delve into acting a little deeper. In the movie you’ve got David Koechner’s character in your ear, psyching you up for the sale. Did your parents assume that cheerleader role when you were starting out as an actor? They never really encouraged me to be an actor, but they were always getting me up on stage. Not as a means to an end to become an actor, but just because they believed you learn more about yourself when you’re acting and improvising. They wanted to share their love of the craft PG 10 • insiteatlanta.com • August 2009

You played supporting parts in a ton of TV shows and films before you got the role on Entourage and became this sort of overnight sensation 20 years in the making. Now you’ve got your first leading role in The Goods. How do you define success at this stage in your career? I would define success as being a working actor, which I’m lucky enough to be. After about 50 movies, I’ve got such respect for those who came before me, which is why I would take a tiny role in a movie with Dustin Hoffman (Runaway Jury), Morgan Freeman (Kiss The Girls) or Robert DeNiro (Heat). I wanted to work with the actors who have most influenced my life, just to be around them. So I feel like I’m smart enough to know that you’re only as good as the people you surround yourself with, and on The Goods I couldn’t have worked with a better team. You’ve co-starred opposite a lot of legends over the course of your career, but are there any great actors you’re espe-

cially itching to work with? Yeah, there are guys like Javier Bardem and Denzel Washington, who are both consistently brilliant. I’d like to explore playing the romantic lead as well as playing a villain, so I still feel like there’s a lot of stuff left to come for me. Are there any types of roles you refuse to play outright? I don’t think so. I try not to close myself off to any possibilities, and I think I’m just cocky enough to feel like I can tackle anything that’s thrown my way. I think everyone should know their limitations, like I know that I can’t sing, but when they asked me to sing as Don Ready I decided to play him like he thinks he’s a great singer. It’s like Ari Gold; what makes him so funny is the fact that he thinks he’s so funny. Ari’s sharp and has these really great lines, but he’ll be really harsh to someone and laugh as if it’s hysterical, when in fact he’s just an asshole! But it’s funny to watch him as a result, because everybody knows a guy like that. I love to play guys who don’t know their limitations. How do you think your years as a supporting player benefit you as an actor when you do finally get a chance to be the guy whose name is above the title? I think it impacts you in a lot of ways you wouldn’t even be able to describe. I actually started studying as an actor at the age most athletes begin training– 8 years old– and at a certain point it kinda gets ingrained into your bones so deeply that you can’t even articulate what it is that’s gone into informing what you do. You’ve just got to keep working at it. Don Ready has been on the road his whole life and I’ve been working as an actor my whole life, so I know what it’s like to dedicate everything you have to something. There’s a great cover story on you in the August

issue of Men’s Fitness in which you talk about doing yoga. What else do you do to achieve balance in your life? That’s the challenge, you know? I keep going from one thing to the next, like I just wrapped this season of Entourage and now I’m on the road promoting The Goods. I think it’s important to realize that it’s OK not to work, but it took me a long time to figure that out. When you come from a theatre family, the idea of turning down work is almost sacrilegious. If you look at my first 40 roles, they’re small parts, but with every one of them I took scraps and made a meal out of it. That’s your job as an actor, to play every role as if it’s a lead. You work as an apprentice all your life, and hopefully you’re ready when they call your name to be the lead.

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PG 11 • insiteatlanta.com • August 2009

Foxy Lady FILM INTERVIEW

Megan Fox on Transformers, Jonah Hex and the Pros & Cons of Stardom BY ALEX S. MORRISON

HETHER YOU’RE TALKING about their career barometer or their level of sexual attractiveness, actresses simply don’t get much hotter than Megan Fox, who at the tender age of 23 has already been pegged as the next Angelina Jolie. It’s been two years since director Michael Bay’s Transformers transformed the tart-tongued Tennessee native into a superstar virtually overnight. Now, the image of her perfect, denim skirt-clad body bent over the hood of a ’76 Camaro has become the 21st century version of Farrah Fawcett’s infamous bikini poster. Now, with Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen still raking in money hand over fist and a starring role in Diablo Cody’s horror comedy Jennifer’s Body due to hit theaters in September, Fox is ranked #4 on the Internet Movie Database’s “STARmeter.” So when she stopped by this year’s Comic-Con in San Diego to promote her role in 2010’s eagerly awaited comic book adaptation, Jonah Hex, the fanboys were understandably twitterpated. Then again, so were we… It’s been great to watch your meteoric rise to stardom in the last few years. How have things changed most for you since the first Transformers? I think the movie’s commercial success and how well it was received has opened a lot of doors for me career-wise. I’ve been able to be a part of some films that I really didn’t feel like I deserved to be a part of, and that’s due greatly to the success of Transformers. Like I just did Jonah Hex with Josh Brolin and John Malkovich, and young actors in general just don’t get those kinds of opportunities. For me to have that is a huge blessing, and it’s because of the success of this movie.

PG 12 • insiteatlanta.com • August 2009

What are the pros and cons of becoming so famous so early in life and working in Hollywood? The biggest con is that you lose a lot of sleep. The biggest pro is that you get to see the world, and I’m a 23 year old kid who, under normal circumstances, wouldn’t get to do something like that. Has it been difficult to deal with the intrusions of fame into your private life? I mean, getting photographed at Whole Foods or coming out of Rite Aid with your shampoo bottles and stuff is new to me, but it’s not that crazy. You acclimate to that pretty quickly.

What was it like working with members of the military on Transformers 2? I think in general I was pleasantly surprised with them, because they were all extremely chivalrous and respectful. It’s clearly because they’re disciplined, and they’re so much better behaved than the rest of the cast is (laughter), myself included! They listen and take directions well, while we’re all just fucking off. It adds authenticity to the movie, and Michael would consult with the military on everything to make it real. I enjoy being able to walk on a set and see 100 real soldiers as opposed to 100 actors from L.A. in fatigues. It was overall a really pleasant experience for me, and I have an immense amount of respect for the soldiers and for our troops.

I DON’T KNOW HOW OR WHY ALL THIS STUFF IS HAPPENING FOR ME, BUT IT’S AMAZING AND IT’S A HUGE BLESSING. IT BAFFLES MY MIND, BUT I AM FOREVER GRATEFUL.

You wear some seriously revealing outfits in these films. Did you ever have a moment where you’re like, “I can’t wear this”? I had those moments on a daily basis! I went to Michael’s office, and he was in an upstairs room auditioning Ramon Rodriguez and two other actors that were going to be in the film, and Shia and three of the writers were there. So it was a room full of a lot of men. They were up there discussing the film and simultaneously he wanted me to have my wardrobe fitting. So I had to come up the stairs each time to show him a new outfit, and I would go to a little room in the basement and put on 18 different outfits– basically like onesies or baby jumpers, white jean shorts, pink shirts, motorcycle boots– and I would go up there and parade around for all of them, because Michael… god forbid he should have to get up out of his chair and come in the hallway to look at me. I’d have to come into the room and do a little fashion show, with a threepoint turn, and he would say he either liked it or he hated it. We did this for, like, three hours! I had no say and clearly he has an eye for what should and should not be in the movie. So I trust him.

How do you feel when you see yourself up on screen? I usually don’t watch myself: I don’t watch playback, I don’t look at still photos, I have a phobia of it. But I forced myself to sit down and watch Transformers 2– I basically shot an entire glass of champagne just so I could get through it– and I was really pleasantly surprised. Like halfway through it I was overcome with genuine emotion, and I wanted to hug Michael be-

cause I had so much gratitude to him for making this movie that surpassed all my expectations. I think overall the character is sexy, but women in movies are sexy in general, especially in Michael’s movies. He knows how to get people in the theater, and that’s the best part of the formula. Was it easier to work with the green screen the second time around? It was definitely easier this time, because we’ve seen Optimus and heard his voice and know how he moves. Once you’re able to visualize something’s presence, it’s a lot easier to fake interaction with it. I enjoy doing those scenes because we’ve gotten good at figuring out where the eyeline is, so you basically scream your dialogue at it and avoid the area where you know the robot is. We ended up doing a ton of takes because it needed to be specific– the light needs to be right and they need to be able to make it look the way that they want it to– but the green screen stuff wasn’t that difficult this time around. How did Shia’s hand injury from his auto accident impact shooting? We were all very lucky at Shia’s level of commitment for this movie because he showed up and acted as though he didn’t have an injury and still went balls-to-thewall and was completely committed. He did things that were not safe for him to do, but he wanted this movie to be as real as possible, so that helped everyone out a lot. How has it been working on Jonah Hex? It’s been so insane and crazy. I don’t know how or why all this stuff is happening for me, but it’s amazing and it’s a huge blessing. It baffles my mind, but I am forever grateful. From the footage I’ve seen, [Jonah Hex] is just a bad-ass comic book movie with three of the best actors in the business. Obviously I’m not talking about myself, but Josh Brolin, Michael Fastbender and John Malkovich. Are you looking forward to ComicCon this year? Yeah, I’ve been there before and I love it. I don’t know if I’ll get to walk around much this time without security, and that’s embarrassing. My initial thought was that I should dress up as a Princess Lei slave, but that would be opposite of what I need to do as far as needing security. But I do love ComicCon, and I would go even if I didn’t have movies to promote. I would go and walk around to the booths that I like, buying little tiny Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles t-shirts. That’s what I want!

FILM

�� $9.99 (R) �� –B. Love

500 DAYS OF SUMMER (PG-13) �� –Matt Goldberg

BRÜNO (R) ��

�� –Matt Goldberg

THE COVE (PG-13) �� –B. Love

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��

Jeremy Piven (left) has ﬁnally landed himself a leading role. Too long if you ask us. Was it worth the wait? Find out in “The Goods: Live Hard, Sell Hard” on August 14.

THE GOODS: LIVE HARD, SELL HARD �� –B. Love �� –Rodney Hill

HARRY POTTER AND THE HALF-BLOOD PRINCE (PG) ��

�� –Matt Goldberg PG 13 • insiteatlanta.com • August 2009

AWESOME ! CRAZY COOL AND SO MUCH FUN.”

“

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FILM INTERVIEW

Back In Time

The Return of RACHEL McADAMS BY BRET LOVE

“You try to be as practical as you can,” she acknowledges, “but my heart always wins the battle with my head. Love takes ANTED: BESTSELLING NOVELIST a lot of time and commitment, and I think it comes down to  ervent fan base to provide source making a choice that you believe in. Once you’ve made that material for A-list actress’ future film decision, you don’t hold back; it’s everything and the kitchen development projects. Weepy romantic dramas will get sink. I don’t know anything about love, but my parents are still preferential consideration, although period thrillers featuring very much in love and I think it takes a lot of work. You have iconic detective characters will also be considered. Authors to have passion and a little bit of spit and fire.” and literary agents are encouraged to send all submissions The same could be said of establishing a successful Holto the attention of R. McAdams c/o United Talent Agency, lywood career in an era in which actors are frequently better Beverly Hills, California. known for their personal lives than their professional ones. Okay, so you may not see such an advertisement in the pages The pressures of fame became all too real for McAdams of Daily Variety or the Hollywood Reporter anytime soon, but over the course of her on-again/off-again relationship with the concept doesn’t seem so far-fetched when you consider her Notebook co-star, Ryan Gosling. But she acknowledges Rachel McAdams’ resumé. that the opportunities she’s been presented as a result of her The 30-year-old Canadian actress has appeared in just nine success are more than worth the downsides that accompany films since her breakthrough role opposite Lindsay Lohan Hollywood fame. in 2004’s Mean Girls, a third “There’s a lot of pressure,” she of which have been based on I’VE GOTTEN TO DO SO insists, “but it’s very flattering. You best-selling books. And the try to go into movies not thinking GENRES MANY DIFFERENT truth is, with her last decent box about how people are going to office draw coming way back in AND PEOPLE HAVE FAITH react to them. It’s important that 2005 (The Family Stone, which IN LETTING ME DO THINGS people think I’m competent, but earned $60 million), McAdams’ you have to go into it selfishly. career could seriously use a hit. I NORMALLY WOULDN’T BE It’s strange to believe any kind of Fortunately, she has two strong outside of yourself, and ALLOWED TO DO. THAT’S projection contenders coming up in the it’s a little dangerous to see yourself next few months, both of which EXCITING, AND I HOPE I GET the way other people do. I guess would seem to have built-in just try to enjoy it and do things audiences. TO KEEP DOING THAT. Ithat speak to me, and hopefully Coming up first is this it’ll all work out. I have faith in the month’s The Time Traveler’s Wife, an adaptation of Audrey universe, and faith that things will be ok.” Niffenegger’s beloved book about handsome librarian Henry Things certainly seem to be working out OK for McAdams, DeTamble (played in the film by Aussie actor Eric Bana), who will follow up The Time Traveler’s Wife by starring who was born with a gene that causes him to travel through opposite Robert Downey Jr. and Jude Law in Guy Ritchie’s time involuntarily. McAdams co-stars as artist Clare Abshire, Sherlock Holmes. Though the film won’t even be released unwhose life evolves in a decidedly more sequential fashion til Christmas, fans have been clamoring for details ever since and whose passionate love for Henry is continuously tested Ritchie began discussing the project at the 2008 Toronto Film over time. Filmed largely in McAdams’ native Ontario, the Festival. Asked about the film’s tone, McAdams describes it as movie has been in the works for years (Brad Pitt and Jennifer equal parts light-hearted humor and heart-pumping action. Aniston bought the rights before the book had even been “I didn’t realize how big it was until I stepped on the sets. released), and Internet message boards were buzzing with They were just massive. It’s in true Guy Ritchie fashion, with speculation about the adaptation’s merits– or lack thereof– lots of fighting and explosions, and Robert and Jude make a months in advance of its release. wonderful duo. I supposedly play Sherlock’s love interest,” she McAdams, coming off a run of disappointing films that says with a laugh, “but it’s really Watson. I think some people included State of Play, The Lucky Ones and Married Life, are probably skeptical about the film, and everybody has their is understandably optimistic about the movie’s potential. “I preconceived notions. But it’s a really nice balance of comedy haven’t seen it recently, but I saw a rough cut a long time ago. and drama, and it looks beautiful.” There’s time travel in it, obviously, and it’s really cool the way So, with two can’t-miss literary adaptations in the can, a that they deal with it. But Robert Schwentke, the director, real-life romance with actor Josh Lucas in full bloom and a really explored the relationship and how you carry on with film with Harrison Ford and Diane Keaton in the works, it the love of your life when you have this imposition. I think it’s seems that life for Rachel McAdams is looking rosy indeed. time for a sweeping romance, because there hasn’t been one The comely Canadian seems surprisingly down-to-earth for for a while.” someone who’s been through the It Girl wringer and lived It was her role in another sweeping romance– the adaptato tell the tale, saying she escapes from the pressures of Holtion of Nicholas Sparks’ novel The Notebook– that initially lywood by spending a lot of time traveling, which she finds endeared McAdams to audiences. Released in June of 2004 as “very grounding.” But she says it all comes down to staying canny counter-programming to the season’s spate of action strong and remaining true to who you are. thrillers, the film proved a surprising summer sleeper, raking “I just want to keep working and keep experimenting,” she in nearly $100 million with its combination of slow-burn says when asked of her goals for the future. “That’s the nicest Southern romance and three-hankie melodrama. Considerthing about this past year: I’ve gotten to do so many different ing the fact that her other big hit, 2005’s Wedding Crashers, genres and people have faith in letting me do things I norwas a romantic comedy, it only seems fair to ask McAdams mally wouldn’t be allowed to do. That’s exciting, and I hope I how she views romance. get to keep doing that.”

IN THEATRES FRIDAY, AUGUST 7

Check Local Listings For Theatres And Showtimes Text GO to 48211 for movie times and mobile updates from Paramount!

ROLLING STONE

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“

Adam Sandler’s best performance ever. Seth Rogen, wonderful throughout, is a hoot.” Peter Travers

SON 23 PRODUCTION A JUDD APATOWEDITEDFILM ADAM SANDLER SETH ROGENPRODUCTION LESLIE MANN “FUNNY PEOPLE” ERIC BANA JONAH HILL BIA PICTURES PRESENT IN ASSOCIATION WITH RELATIMUVSIITCY MEDIA AN APATOW/MADI UNIVERSAL PICTURES ANDMUCOLUM COSTUME DIRECTOR OF NANCYPRODUCED STEINER BETSY HEIMANN BY BRENT WHITE CRAIG ALPERTWRITTENDESIGNER JASON SCHWARTZMAN SBYIC JASON SCHWARTZMAN MICEXECUTIVE HAEL ANDREWS SUPERVISOR JONATHAN KARP DESIGNERS JEFFERSON SAGE PHOTOGRAPHY JANUSZ KAMINSKI AND PRODUCERS SETH ROGEN EVAN GOLDBERG JACK GIARRAPUTO BY JUDD APATOW CLAYTON TOWNSEND BARRY MENDEL DIRECTED BY JUDD APATOW A UNIVERSAL PICTURE © 2009 UNIVERSAL STUDIOS

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PG 14 • insiteatlanta.com • August 2009

LOCAL EVENT

Dragon*Con 2009

BY CHRIS GOOD

T’S THAT TIME AGAIN; TIME to let your inner geek out to play. Dragon*Con 2009 is happening Labor Day weekend (September 4th – September 7th), at the Hyatt Regency Atlanta, Atlanta Marriott Marquis, the Atlanta Hilton and the Sheraton Atlanta Hotel, all in Downtown Atlanta. The 23rd Annual Dragon*Con is the largest multimedia, popular culture convention focusing on science fiction and fantasy, gaming, comics, literature, art, music, and film in the US. This four-day event features panels, seminars, demonstrations and over 3500 hours of programming including Sci-fi and Fantasy Literature, Star Wars, Star Trek, X Track, Anne McCaffrey’s Pern, Tolkien’s Middle Earth, Robert Jordan’s Wheel of Time, Animation Track, Anime/Manga, Film Track, Costuming Track, Dark Fantasies, British and American Television, NASA Space and Science, Computer Technology, Writing, Art, Horror, Romance Writers, MMORPGs, Skeptics, and Anime & Film Video Rooms, and much more. Other highlights of the convention include:

DRAGON*CON DEALERS ROOM AND EXHIBIT HALL

Located at the Atlanta Marriott Marquis, over a hundred dealers and exhibitors will offer a huge assortment of hardbound and paperback books, games and accessories, Bronze, Silver and Golden Age comics, original crafts, costumes, medieval arms and artifacts, posters, models, collectible toys, celebrity photos, animation cells and imported Japanese animation tapes and merchandise.

DRAGON*CON PARADE

Every year several hundred costumed Dragon*Con members gather in the early Saturday morning hours, ready to take center stage on Peachtree Street in downtown Atlanta for the largest event at Dragon*Con - the annual costume parade. Thousands more line the parade route to participate in the fun and to cheer on their favorites. Plan to be there

Saturday, September 5 as a participant or onlooker. The parade starts promptly at 10:00 AM and the route follows Peachtree Street from Woodruff Park (at Auburn Avenue) to the Hyatt, then continues down Baker Street and concludes at the Marriott.

DRAGON*CON NIGHT AT THE GEORGIA AQUARIUM

New to the convention this year is Dragon*Con Night at the Georgia Aquarium on Saturday, September 5. There will be an exclusive $17 admission price for all Dragon*Con attendees. There will be special “after hours” from 7:30pm – 11:30pm and all exhibits will be open. Both food court and cash bars will be open from 8 – 11pm. All costumes and gear welcome – no weapons please!!

FREE PASSES Invites You and a Guest to a special advance screening of

CELEBRITY GUESTS

Celebrity guests are also a big part of Dragon*Con. This year’s convention is no exception with hundreds of speakers scheduled to appear at this years show. Some of the big names on hand include: Leonard Nimoy, Director Terry Gilliam, Patrick Stewart, Director George Romero, Traci Lords, Twilight’s Peter Facinelli, Karen Allen, Dirk Benedict, Edward James Olmos, Rocky Horror’s Barry Bostwick, Hellraiser’s Pinhead, Doug Bradley, Dan Brereton, Lois McMaster Bujold, Darwyn Cooke, X Files’ Lone Gunman, Dean Haglund, Tara McPherson, Hellboy creator, Mike Mignola Fringe’s John Noble, Brian Pulido, Humberto Ramos, Ferris Bueller’s Alan Ruck, The original Buffy, Kristy Swanson, Farscape’s Lani John Tupu, and Chelsea Quinn Yarbro. Finally, Dragon*Con will also feature live concerts, dances, and DJs until 6:00 AM, costuming contests, pop art, classic comic art exhibition, comic book quick sketch competition, art show, banquet and awards ceremony, robot battles competition, independent short film festival, beauty pageant (Miss Klingon Empire), gaming events and an evening of professional wrestling. For more information and to purchase tickets head to: www.dragoncon.org.

www.livehardsellhard.com To receive a complimentary pass, simply visit...

Tuesday, August 11 7:30 pm at Regal Atlantic Station

(Galaxy) Atlanta 2273 Cheshire Bridge 404-315-7177 Smyrna 2364 S Cobb Dr. 770-432-3274 (Elations) Marietta 1424 Roswell Rd. 30067 770-578-0399 No purchase necessary. Must be 17 or older. One pass per person, each pass admits two. Tickets are limited and available on a ﬁrst-come, ﬁrst-served basis, while supplies last. Employees of all promotional partners and their agencies are not eligible.

In Theaters August 14!

PG 15 • insiteatlanta.com • August 2009

CONCERT

Appetite for Destruction

CALENDER

�� Yacht Rock Revue �� 4 Poets & A Band �� Houserocker Johnson �� Nomo �� The Duke & The King �� Spanky & The Love Handles �� Emancipator �� Marshall Chiles �� 17th Floor �� The Last Waltz Ensemble �� Five Eight �� Faithless Town �� Port Paradise Cruise Party

(Guns and Roses Tribute Band) Saturday, August 15

Hinder / Papa Roach Sunday, August 16

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Buy Online at Ticketmaster or Wild Line 678.473.1000 2075 Market St., Duluth, GA 30096 | 18 & Up

www.WildBilsAtlanta.com

�� Flashback Festival �� Frontiers �� The 808 Show �� Sweet Betty & The Shadows �� Elbow �� Ty Reynolds �� The Reigning Sound �� Levi Lowrey �� Frankie’s Blues Mission �� Mutulu Shakur Tribute �� Marshall Chiles �� Sara Evans �� The Velcro Pygmies �� Rebirth Brass Band �� Judi Chicago, Noot D’Noot �� Blacksmithz �� Colt Ford �� Lil’ Wayne �� Lindsay Appel �� Cowboy Envy �� Little Brother �� Strange Daze Music Fest �� Marshall Chiles �� Ashutto Mirra �� Deacon Brandon Reeves �� Open Mic �� Patrick Vining �� Mudcat �� Ashley Wortman �� Sidewalk Chalk

Lil Wayne @ �� (August 9)

�� Tru Skool Tuesdays �� Heather Luttrell �� 7 Sharp 9 �� Aslyn �� J.T. Speed �� Open Mic Jam �� Band of Skulls �� Al Smith’s Midtown Jam �� Fatback Deluxe �� Brandon Perry �� Thy Mighty Contract �� An Evening of XTC �� The Soulshakers �� Dirty South TV �� Comedy Gold Open Mic �� Tyler Reeve �� John Brown’s Body �� Sugar Ray �� Time 2 Shine �� Robin Rogers �� Tyler Reeve �� Akron/Family �� Ben Deignan �� Chickenshack �� Liz Brown & the Tomcats �� Jimmy Dore �� The Clinton Tarantinos �� Moontaxi �� Sublime Tribute �� Waajeed �� Sandra Hall �� Our Lady Peace �� The Temptations �� Brandon Perry �� All The Saints �� Jackson County Line �� Blues Highway �� Coy Bowles & Nic Cowan �� The B-52’s �� Shane Bridges �� Boombox �� Honey Island Swamp Band �� Mos Def �� Kingsized �� Incubus �� Jamie McLean �� Def Leppard w/ Poison �� The Breakfast Club �� Julie Dexter �� Houserocker Johnson �� Steely Dan �� Connor �� The Ettes �� Dar Williams �� The Pocket Maﬁa �� John Hopkins & Levi Lowrey �� Fly By Radio �� Paul McCartney Tribute �� Nuggets NIght �� Kingsized �� Atlanta Symphony: Rising Stars �� Eulogy �� Guns-N-Roses Tribute �� Woodstock Beneﬁt Show �� Soul Brothers Testify �� Stonehoney �� Little Brother �� The Attack of the Bionic Flow �� Taylor Hicks �� Hinder, Papa Roach �� Joe McGuinness �� Bowerbirds �� Open Mic �� Patrick Vining �� Holly Belle �� Bat For Lashes �� Victori4 �� Tru Skool Tuesdays �� The King-A-Lings �� Paul Hand �� The Warlocks �� Shawn Mullins �� J.T. Speed �� Open Mic �� Hollis Gillespie �� Florez

Tickets at Ticketmaster.com • 800.745.3000 • Ticketmaster Outlets Box Of fice•Buy T ickets at AEGLive.com

PG 16 • insiteatlanta.com • August 2009

�� Al Smith’s Midtown Jam �� Scott Glazer’s Mojo Dojo �� America w/ Chris Cross �� Ty Reynolds �� Dungen �� Shawn Mullins �� The Soulshakers

g Stars

uesdays

�� Dirty South TV �� Comedy Gold Open Mic �� Sick Puppies �� Peter Frampton �� Tyler Reeve Band �� Mike Keneally �� Cobra Starship �� Tommy Lee Soul Album Release �� John Nemeth �� Tyler Reeve �� Bobby Long �� Gareth Asher �� Chickenshack �� STS9 Pre-party �� Marijuana-Logues �� The Clinton Tarantinos �� Bobby Lee Rodgers �� The Fiery Furnaces �� Judas Priest �� Bobby Long & Tim Brantley �� 3 on 3rd �� Delta Moon �� Walkin’ Sidewayz �� The Tom Collins (Reunion) �� Caroline Aiken �� Joe Lee Bush Project �� Funk Party �� Marijuana-Logues �� Ocean Street �� Guruﬁsh �� Thee Crucials �� Sound Tribe Sector 9 �� O.A.R. �� Same As It Ever Was �� Girlz, Girlz, Girlz �� The Mash Up Vol. 3 �� The Breeze Kings �� Sister Hazel �� Brandon Perry �� Gentleman Jesse & His Men �� The Goodﬁght �� Reverbo Rockets �� Ancient Harmony �� Marijuana-Logues� �� Moby Dick �� Jonas Brothers �� Adrian Belew Power Trio �� Abby Road �� Sound Tribe Sector 9 �� El Scorcho �� Lissy Rosemont �� The Grascals �� Little Brother

�� Tyler Reeve �� Simpliﬁed

THE TEMPTATIONS ASHFORD & SIMPSON Friday, August 14

STEELY DAN

�� Money $hott �� ATL’s Comics Unleashed �� Sandra Hall �� Edwin McCain �� Shyanne �� Trances Arc �� Ellis Paul �� The Delta Rockers �� Yonrico Scott �� Chris Hardwick �� Marshall Tucker Band �� Wes Loper Band �� Entropy �� The Honorary Title �� Crue Fest 2 �� Unzipt �� Kimberly Nichole �� Houserocker Johnson �� Men of Praise �� En Vogue �� Sonia Leigh �� Attractive Eighties Women �� Ellis Paul �� Andy Makely Band �� Justin Brogdon �� Chris Hardwick �� Appetite for Destruction �� Smokey’s Farmland Band �� Cheryl Wheeler �� The Stonesouls Reunion �� The Jaguars �� Little Brother �� ATL Underground Film Fest �� Chris Hardwick �� Zoogma �� Chickenfoot

�� IFapalooza �� Marijuana-Logues �� Michael C. Smith �� Big & Rich

�� Nathan Morgan Band �� Catch 23 �� Open Mic �� Patrick Vining �� Brian Lavelle �� Chris Hardwick �� Last Episode

�� Boo Hoo Ramblers �� Open Mic �� Patrick Vining �� Holly Howell

�� Tru Skool Tuesdays �� Down �� Korby Lenker �� Open Mic

�� Tru Skool Tuesdays �� Terry Flynn Band �� 7 Sharp 9 �� J.T. Speed �� Open Mic Jam �� Mile Marker7

�� The Long Shadows �� Dirty South TV �� Mike Zito

�� Al Smith’s Midtown Jam �� Burnt Bacon �� The Flaming Lips �� Brandon Perry �� The Rescues �� The Soulshakers �� Dirty South TV

SINGLE TICKETS ON SALE NOW!

�� Producers Swap Meet �� Tommy Brown �� Tyler Reeve �� Dead Rabbits �� Eliza Gilkyson �� Chickenshack �� The Apostles �� Chris Hardwick �� The Clinton Tarantinos �� Sam Thacker �� BMI Showcase

�� Tova Rinah & The Way Home �� Connor Christian �� Perfect Attendance �� First Thursday ASCAP Showcase �� Warm in the Wake �� Lee Scratch Perry

Incubus @��(August 14)

Saturday, August 15

AMERICA

Christopher Cross Wednesday, August 19

EDWIN MCCAIN WITH

FREDDY JONES BAND Friday, August 28

EN VOGUE

Tony! Toni! Toné! Silk Saturday, August 29 Saturday, September 12

AUGUST 26

LOGGINS & MESSINA

This show is reserved seating only. No tables, coolers or carry-ins.

ALL TICKETS SOLD ONLINE �� WILL INCLUDE A DIGITAL � �� DOWNLOAD OF ��

The Gabe Dixon Band Friday, September 25

Tickets available at all outlets including Publix Supermarkets. Charge-by-phone: 1.800.745.3000 Buy online: ticketmaster.com Tickets also at the Woodruff Arts Center box ofﬁce (M-F: 10AM-8PM, Sat/Sun: Noon-8PM)

MAKE IT A GROUP! (15 or more) 404.733.4848

deltaclassicchastain.com

Concerts take place rain or shine. Artists and schedules are subject to change. All sales ﬁnal. No exchanges or refunds.

Delta Classic Chastain Concerts at Chastain Park Amphitheater produced by the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, Promoter

ON SALE NOW!

WITH

THE

SPECIAL

DUKE

GUEST

SPIRIT

THIS TOWN TOUR

•

ENJOYINCUBUS.COM

MYSPACE.COM/INCUBUS

•

together with some other Priest classics!

August 20

JudasPriest.com

Whitesnake.com

SOUND TRIBE SECTOR 9

Ghostl��

KICKS COUNTRY JAM 2 featuring BIG & RICH Cowboy Troy

��

Sunday, August 23

JOURNEY

Saturday, September 19 Tickets available at all

INCLUDES “SHATTERED” AND “THIS TOWN” IN STORES NOW

FRIDAY AUGUST 21

OFAREVOLUTION.COM MYSPACE.COM/OFAREVOLUTION FACEBOOK.COM/OFAREVOLUTION

SUGARLAND

�� Saturday, September 26

Saturday, August 22

��

WITH SPECIAL GUEST

On the 30th anniversary of Judas Priest’s much acclaimed album ‘British Steel’ the band will perform the record in its entirety for the very first time ever live on stage

FRIDAY AUGUST 14

illespie

dtown Jam s Mojo Dojo ris Cross

PET SHOP BOYS

WEDNESDAY

THIRD DAY

�� Saturday, October 10

FOR CONCERT UPDATES AND VENUE INFO, VISIT vzwamp.com outlets including Publix Supermarkets.

Charge-by-phone: 1.800.745.3000

Buy online: ticketmaster.com

Tickets also at the box ofﬁce (M-F: noon-6pm, Saturday: 10am-2pm, Closed Sundays). The venue is conveniently located off GA-400 in Alpharetta. All artists and schedules subject to change without notice. Concerts rain or shine.

CONCERT CONNECTION

VERIZON WIRELESS CUSTOMERS – THIS IS YOUR TICKET TO CONCERT NEWS! Get news on the hottest concerts sent straight to your phone. Simply text “1400” and enter “Encore” to get information on concerts, performers and more! Standard text messaging rates apply. ©2009 Verizon Wireless

PG 17 • insiteatlanta.com • August 2009

MUSIC INTERVIEW

Beyond What They Say

STEADY AS SHE GOES

Yeah, she looks like you-know-who and even toured with her hubby Jay-Z, but please know that Ciara is her own woman. BY DEMARCO WILLIAMS

IARA’S ONE OF THE BIGGEST pop/R&B stars in the country. Her albums have sold well. Her face is almost instantly recognizable. Her name stirs the gossip pot like few others. (Wait, you still haven’t seen her risqué Vibe cover from a few months back?!) Still, for some reason, the young lady from Austin, Texas, who moved to Georgia as an early teen, still can’t get from under Beyonce’s –and to a lesser degree, Rihanna’s- shadow. The fact that she drives in the same divaﬁed musical lane as Bey, just got oﬀ a quick summer tour with her other half, Jay-Z, and did an early ’09 album, Fantasy Ride, that had an eerily-similar superwoman undertone to Mrs. Knowles’ I Am… Sasha Fierce, certainly doesn’t really help matters. But if people could somehow get past those things –okay, the look and dance moves sometimes ring familiar too- they’d see a talented 23-year-old who’s more than capable of standing on her own two. Folks, the Ciara Princess Harris who popped onto the scene in ’04, telling guys they had zero chance getting any of her “Goodies,”

has grown up. And while she still occasionally ventures down that crunk-ﬁlled path she and producer Jazzy Pha walked so well, her sound has unquestionably matured something fairly unique over the times. Those unfamiliar with Fantasy Ride –The album only sold moderately in the States, but overseas, it’s been nothing short of a smash- will get a full dose when Ciara joins Britney Spears this month for the 20-city North American portion of Spears’ Circus tour. And maybe, just maybe, after people see the real Ciara in action, they can stop referring to her as the fake Beyoncé.

Since you first arrived at a national level in late ’03, early ‘04, how has the Atlanta music scene changed? Are things better or worse for musicians? The Atlanta music scene has definitely changed since I first started. Atlanta has a music scene that is great for up and comers. The environment has a lot of talented musicians, producers, etc. And that’s why so many talented artists have come from ATL. It’s definitely become more crowded and competitive in ATL, which is key for great artists to succeed but it also attracts artists that are just trying to do it for the money there as well, thinking it’s easier to stand out in ATL than a bigger city like NYC. Regardless there’s still so much

talent. I wouldn’t trade it for anything. What is it about this city that it can remain relevant over the years while other cities flame out over a couple of summers? Again, ATL has an abundant amount of talent. They’re always trying to find the next level and just enjoy themselves at the same time. ATL also has a lot of hometown values from being in the south, so that keeps things from getting too far ahead of itself and taking its own pace. Define success for me. Is it financial? Physical? Emotional? Have you attained it yet? Success in the ATL is different than anywhere else. It’s a mixture of being financially stable as well as being comfortable with where you’re at in life, enjoying what comes and not reaching for anything that’s out of reach basically. For those who haven’t given Fantasy Ride a try in the iPod, what exactly have they been missing? They’re missing a good time! I decided to give people a side of me they hadn’t seen before, while mixing in what people have grown to love me for. Don’t get it twisted: I still have my crunk, ATL sound in there. But now, I’ve got some softer sounds and more pop edgy sounds too. It’s exciting!

�� &

Fri, Aug. 14 Tuesday Texas Hold ‘Em Tourney, FREE Pool, Beer Pong & Corn Hole Wednesday Speed Texas Hold ‘Em Tourney Beer Pong & Corn Hole Thursday LIVE Music Texas Hold ‘Em Tourney Beer Pong & Corn Hole Friday & Saturday Voted Best College Bar Voted Best Texas Hold’em Voted Best Cocktails NEVER A COVER!

�� 3179 Peachtree Rd. (Buckhead) 404-231-4201 Join us on Facebook. Search Moondogs!

PG 18 • insiteatlanta.com • August 2009

��

Fri, Aug. 21

SHANE Fly By Radio BRIDGES (80’s Rock)

OCEAN STREET (Southern Rock/Pop)

��

Fri, Aug. 28

��

MOBY DICK

Wes Loper Band

APPETITE FOR DESTRUCTION

(Country Cover)

(80’s & 90’s Cover)

(Country Rock Cover) (The Guns n’ Roses Tribute)

NO COVER WEEKNIGHTS! ��

Road Warriors

This Month’s Hottest Shows BY JON LATHAM 8/9  LIL WAYNE

Aaron’s Amphitheatre at Lakewood The block party of the summer is right here in Atlanta, when Lil Wayne hits the Lakewood stage. His rhyme skill can’t be argued and his stage presence is tough to top. Supporting are other great hip-hop acts like Young Jeezy and Soulja Boy.

8/12  COUNTING CROWS

Chastain Park Adam Duritz brought a voice to the mid-90’s moody kids with the debut release ‘August and Everything After’, and to this day, Counting Crows have relentlessly stayed on the road, building their impressive catalogue of songs along the way. Opening act Michael Franti and Spearhead is yet another live favorite, mixing reggae vibes with rocking tunes.

8/15  PAUL MCCARTNEY

Piedmont Park This could be the biggest show of the year. For the sake of the environment, the former Beatle will have Piedmont Park shaking with a set that is bound to include beloved cuts from McCartney’s days in the Fab Four, as well as Wings. Be on hand for what might be a historic event in your life.

8/16  DEF LEPPARD

Aaron’s Amphitheatre at Lakewood The Rock of Ages is indeed still rolling for Def Leppard. Fresh off a resurgence of new interest due to to a surprisingly fruitful collaboration with country sweetheart Taylor Swift, it could be argued that even after all this time, Def Leppard builds up steam yet again. Two classic rock acts are on hand to support, Glam-metal kings Poison and the incomparable Cheap Trick.

8/22  STS9

Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre Instrumental phenomenon Sound Tribe Sector 9 is best known in Atlanta for their show stopping live performances on New Years Eve at the Tabernacle. Their self-

described “post-rock dance music” should make for an interesting evening at the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra’s outdoor home.

music all-together and are a perfect opener for the show.

8/22  JONAS BROTHERS

Aaron’s Amphitheatre at Lakewood Lock up the wives and daughters; Crue Fest 2 pulls into Atlanta to rock Aarons Amphitheatre. Along with the debauchery that they’ve made their name with, Motley Crue have brought along Godsmack and Theory of a Deadman to flesh out this year’s rocking line-up.

Philips Arena Though it is still at the end of the month, I can already hear the young adolescent screams that will be echoing through Philips Arena when the Jonas Brothers hit the stage. Touring in support of their new album, the JoBros keep building up commercial speed while slowly beginning to win over mainstream credibility. American Idol winner Jordin Sparks will be there as a supporting act. Keep those promise rings handy, kiddos.

8/28  EDWIN MCCAIN W/ FREDDY JONES BAND

Chastain Park Millions of albums sold. Hit songs that never leave the radio airwaves. And not one, but two of the most enduring wedding songs on the circuit, Edwin McCain will have the audience enraptured at Chastain. The Freddy Jones Band are roots-rock specialists in the tradition of groups like the Eagles, The Band and The Allman Brothers. Their sound is a blend of blues, rock and folk

WE GOT NEXT YUNG L.A.

8/29  MOTLEY CRUE

8/30  CHICKENFOOT

Tabernacle Out of Tequilainfluenced jamming at Sammy Hagar’s Cabo Wabo getaway emerges Chickenfoot, perhaps the most surprisingly successful rock outfit of the year. Comprised of Hagar’s former Van Halen band mate Michael Anthony, Guitar wiz Joe Satriani, Red Hot Chili Peppers drummer Chad Smith, and the Red Rocker himself, Chickenfoot is blues-based rock that has found appeal with the masses. The debut album has garnered shocking success. Word is they will be graduating to Amphitheatre venues soon, so why not catch them in a intimate theatre setting?

Artists on the verge of making it big

Latest Project: Futuristic Leland (Grand Hustle) For Fans of: Young Dro, T.I. and Lil Wayne Why You Should Care: Because the Grand Hustle heavyweights think L.A. is gonna come out swingin’ with a style that knocks the masses out.

BY DEMARCO WILLIAMS

RAND HUSTLE RECORDS HAS SEEN the future of hip hop. It’s pretty skinny, rocks a Mohawk and wears loud colors. In fact, the future bears a striking resemblance to Atlanta rapper Yung L.A. When Grand Hustle star Young Dro heard the eccentric emcee do his thing via a mixtape, he was blown away at the potential in the sound. The label’s main man, T.I., agreed, posted Yung up in the studio and came out with the chart-topping remix for “Ain’t I.” Some eight months later, the 23-year-old’s debut, Futuristic Leland, is preparing for lift-oﬀ. What’s separating you from the crop of other new artists speaking on this futuristic rap movement? I don’t really hear too many people really speaking on futuristic rap. To get to the futuristic, you’ve always been a trend-setter and always being up-to-date and always trying to see what was next. I was always trying to see what was

going to be the next hot thing to say or the next hot gear. I always wanted to be the ﬁrst to do everything. That’s why I call my whole movement futuristic. I’m ahead of myself, you know what I’m saying? I’m always looking ahead, beyond what’s going on right now. I separate myself through my image and also through my rap- not just in the way that I rap but also in the topics that I choose. I rap about a variety of topics; I’m not a boxed-in rapper. I’m not aiming at one crowd. That’s one thing that separates me. And then there’s my physical appearance. I don’t look like the average inner-city kid. When I was kickin’ the Mohawk, everybody was like whoo, whoo, whoo. I’m from the innercity, but that’s another way I separate myself- with my physical appearance. Let’s talk about the future of rap. Where do you see the industry going over the next year? Really, just gettin’ back to creativity. You gotta be diverse. You can’t just have one sound. You gotta be able to do whatever’s in. You gotta stay relevant. However you gotta do that, that’s what it is. It’s about being creative again. Where do Young Dro and T.I. come in with helping you be creative? I mean, you can always learn great things from vets and people who’ve already been around the board a couple of times and have already had success, you just pick up on it, just being around that. You know what you’re a part of. You know you’re a part of dedication and hard work amongst these great artists. But if you’re a great rapper when you go in there, you perform at your best ‘cuz you wanna be good. You wanna be good, you wanna be great. When I came to Grand Hustle, I was real good. But when I got there, I kinda mastered my craft even more. I got

help with my sound and my delivery from engineers and people that worked in the Grand Hustle family. They took the talent that was already there and kinda polished it, know what I’m sayin’? And it’s showing. When did you know you had this talent? Really, I was always better than average. Rapping was always a hobby to me. Going back, if you read my bio, you’ll see that my auntie was a rapper. I grew up around my mom and my aunt. My Auntie Joe and her friend Shirley had a rap group. That was actually my first experience getting in the studio as a young’un and just seeing my auntie’nem work. I loved it. I could always freestyle. My auntie wrote my first rap for me when I was, like, eight or nine. I used the rap the same rap all the time. With this music, I could always do it. It was always a hobby growing up. Then, when I was 18, I finally told myself, “Bruh, I can do this shit.” I dropped out when I was in the 10th grade. I turned really on faith [to rapping]. I always knew I could do it. I always felt like that. I’d see videos and see people rap and say I could do that shit. I knew I could. It was just about applying myself and getting the right resources. And then I bumped into the producer Jaytoven, he does a lot of tracks for Gucci Mane and people out of Atlanta. He seen me performing out in Atlanta one night. He walked up to me or whatever and gave me his number. A couple of days later we were in the studio. From there I just ran with it, bruh. That’s the whole story when I bumped into Zay. He was like, “Bruh, you hot. I fuck with you.” He told me, “Come to the studio.” He would give me the beats and everything. He wouldn’t even charge me for the beats. He was like, “You goin’ hard!” I was goin’ hard. Next thing you know, we had put so many songs together that I had a mixtape ready. I was already performing in the streets in

the city. Niggaz was like, “L.A.! L.A.!” I had a song called “I Got It” produced by Zaytoven. I dropped a mixtape while my buzz was whoop, whoop, whoop. The first mixtape I dropped, In The City, is the mixtape that got me my deal with Grand Hustle. That’s how it went down, on some real shit. The mixtape had got to Young Dro. I was staying in the Thomasville Projects or whatever. Dro used to hang in Summerhill. All of this is Zone 3, Southwest Atlanta. One of my patnahs heard my mixtape, gave it to Dro and was like, “Yo, my lil’ patnah in Thomasville the truth. He goin’ crazy.” Dro listened to the mixtape and actually came to Thomasville lookin’ for me. He missed me the first two times. The first two times he couldn’t find me. It was on the third time that he bumped into me. He saw me and I freestyled for him off the rip. He was like, “Shit, I’mma take your shit up to Grand Hustle, whoop, whoop, whoop.” That’s how it evolved. I stayed close to my craft all these years, even though we had ups and downs. I always had passion to stay close to the rap. Tell me about Futuristic Leland. Futuristic Leland is my debut album. I just put together the best album I could for my fans and everybody who been supporting me. With the “Ain’t I” single, my fanbase ranged from kids on up to 30, 40. I felt like I had to do the same with my album. I had to do something everybody could listen to. That’s what we put together. I went in there with producer Jim Jonsin. He made T.I.’s “Whatever You Like.” He did a lot of stuff for Lil Wayne. We got a hot record. I’ve just been working. We got some good cameos. I got Lil Boosie on there. That’s one name I’ll give out. We got some of my Grand Hustle family on there. We just tryin’ to showcase me this album and let’em know that this is futuristic music. PG 19 • insiteatlanta.com • August 2009

MUSIC

��

�� By B. Love, DeMarco Williams, John Davidson, John B. Moore, Matt Goldberg & Jon Latham �� REGINA SPEKTOR– FAR (Sire) �� The return of the piano-pop princess �� FABOLOUS – LOSO’S WAY (Desert Storm/Def Jam) �� Loso’s so-so attempt to put NY back on the rap map �� MAYER HAWTHORNE – A STRANGE ARRANGEMENT �� (Stones Throw) �� Real soul from the unlikeliest of places �� NIGHTMARE OF YOU – INFOMANIAC (The Bevonshire �� Label) �� From emo kids to Indie rock up-and-comers �� THE JAYHAWKS – MUSIC FROM THE NORTH �� COUNTRY: THE JAYHAWKS ANTHOLOGY (American �� and Legacy) �� Alt-country underdogs get their due �� GIRL IN A COMA – TRIO B.C. (Blackheart) �� Texas power trio grows up �� CLOCK HANDS STRANGLE – DISTACCATI (Chocolate �� Lab) �� Going through an identity crisis ��

��

PG 20 • insiteatlanta.com • August 2009

�� PATTERSON HOOD – MURDERING OSCAR… AND OTHER LOVE STORIES (Ruth St.) Drive-By Truckers frontman gets by with a lil’ help ��

HER TUBE

How Mayaysia’s Zee Avi Rode the Internet to Stardom

BY JOHN B. MOORE

WO YEARS AGO, MALAYSIAN SINGER songwriter Zee Avi (born Izyan Alirahman) was a bored 22-year-old writing songs in her bedroom for fun. After playing her first live concert in Kuala Lampur, she decided to post a video on YouTube for a friend who had missed the show. She got so much positive feedback that she decided to write and post more songs on YouTube. The last one, “No Christmas For Me,” garnered nearly 3,000 responses, including one from Raconteurs drummer Patrick Keeler, which eventually led to her being signed by Jack Johnson’s Brushfire Records label. Now the refreshingly humble beauty is touring the world to support her self-titled debut album, and recently spoke with us about her whirlwind success story. Your music has earned comparisons to classic artists like Billie Holiday. Who were some of the artists who inﬂuenced you? I’m a big fan of vocal jazz, and what inspired me most about the music of that era is the simplicity and honesty of it all. I love music from the 1920s to the late ‘70s, but I also artists from this generation who sound like they’re from another time, like Jolie Holland. That sound has almost been forgotten, and it’s such a shame.

MUSIC INTERVIEW You were born in Borneo, raised in Kuala Lampur, went to college in London and now live in California. How did living in all these different places impact you on a cultural level? I think it makes me more well-rounded and broadens my horizons, enabling me to be open to a lot of different cultures and mindsets. I love meeting new people and hearing their stories, and I get antsy when I stay in one place too long. I’m a self-proclaimed nomad, and I get easily bored. So it’s refreshing to be able to travel and sing and see new places when I tour. You didn’t even start playing guitar until you were 17. What inspired you to start writing music? I got back from London and had so much free time on my hands, and my guitar was just lying there collecting dust. I just looked at it and thought, I’ll give this a shot, and started writing songs. Soon after that I played my first gig, but a friend of mine missed the show, so I put a video of me performing the first song I’d ever written up on YouTube to see what he’d say. It all progressed from there.

OUTDOOR PATIO

LIVE MUSIC

Lots of Love always

East Cobb’s NEWEST CANTINA! incredible food! incredible fun! oh yeah!

Your story speaks to the power of 21st century technology. What are your thoughts on the way the Internet helped make your career? It’s surreal! (Laughs) The Internet allows you to showcase anything and everything, and it’s become this diﬀerent world where you can express whatever you’re feeling. All the songs I posted on there were written that day or the day before, so it’s kind of like a diary I wanted to share. But I went on YouTube without any expectations. I never intended it to be a promotional marketing tool.

Tuesdays (7:30pm)

So you posted your ﬁrst song on YouTube in 2007, and now you’re hanging out with the Raconteurs and signed to Jack Johnson’s label? It’s pretty insane! I’m still pinching myself. My parents always told me it’s important to keep yourself grounded. I’m thankful, but at the same time, I just want to jump through the roof. It’s been a pretty amazing journey, getting to work with some really wonderful people. Especially coming from Malaysia, where opportunities like this don’t come along every day, I just feel so fortunate and grateful.

Friday & Saturday

TRIVIA

Wednesdays (9pm)

KARAOKE Thursdays

��

PG 21 • insiteatlanta.com • August 2009

MUSIC DESTINATION

Roots, Rock, Reggae

The Evolution & Influence of Jamaican Music BY BRET LOVE

UST 145 MILES LONG AND 50 MILES WIDE, WITH A population of 2.8 million, Jamaica ranks 139th among the world’s most populous countries (putting it just ahead of Mongolia and Latvia). But it’s impossible to quantify the remarkable impact the island has had on global culture, thanks in large part to a legacy of musical innovation stretching back over 50 years. Without Jamaica, the world would never have known the sounds of ska, reggae or even hip-hop, all of which were born on this tiny island in the West Indies.

THE ROOTS

Though most people associate the island with the laid-back rhythms of reggae, Jamaica’s ﬁrst major musical movement was the more uptempo sound of ska. Combining elements of Caribbean mento and calypso with American jazz and rhythm & blues, ska arose in the wake of American soldiers stationed in Jamaica during and after World War II, and its celebratory sound coincided with Jamaica’s independence from the UK in 1962. Early acts such as The Skatalites and The Wailers remain legends today, inﬂuencing ‘80s acts such as Madness, The Specials and English Beat and ‘90s icons such as Sublime, No Doubt and the Mighty Mighty Bosstones But by the late ‘60s, as American soul music was becoming slower and smoother, ska began to evolve into reggae, whose central themes of peace, love, justice and equality mirrored the ideals of the American counter-cultural movement of the same era.

THE HEART

The dawn of reggae found Jamaican music spreading throughout the world, with Bob Marley & the Wailers leading the charge. With lyrics that balanced sociopolitical discourse, religious themes and messages of love and positivity, songs such as “Get Up, Stand Up” and “I Shot the Sheriﬀ” made them international superstars (particularly after the latter was covered by Eric Clapton in 1974). But they weren’t the only Jamaican artists to break out: Acts such as ex-

Wailer Peter Tosh, Jimmy Cliff, Burning Spear, Black Uhuru and Culture all emerged as stars on the global stage. Wailers producer Lee “Scratch” Perry was chosen to work with British punk legends The Clash, while British bands such as The Police and Steel Pulse proved reggae’s influence was spreading far beyond Jamaica’s borders. By 1985, the Grammy Awards had introduced a Best Reggae Album category, signaling the Jamaican sound’s firm place in the mainstream.

evolution of the island’s music, from mento and ska to reggae, dub and dancehall. PETER TOSH MEMORIAL PARK (Westmoreland) – Still under construction, this memorial (overseen by Tosh’s mother) includes his mausoleum, a small museum/gift shop and memorabilia of the legend’s life. REGGAE XPLOSION (Ocho Rios) – Provides an extensive overview of Jamaican music history, including digital photo archives, music-related art, vinyl albums and a replica of a mobile record shack.

THE BRANCHES

While the inﬂuence of ska and reggae cannot be overstated, it was another Jamaican music sub-genre that ultimately changed the world. Popularized by production wizards such as Lee “Scratch” Perry and King Tubby, dub is a largely instrumental version of reggae originally used to test sound systems. To hype the crowds at the parties and nightclubs where the DJs performed, they would get on the microphone and “toast” in hip rhyming patterns. When Kingston native Clive “DJ Kool Herc” Campbell moved to the Bronx, his legendary parties gave birth to the sound now known as hip-hop, influencing practically every DJ and MC that followed. In recent years a bevy of popular musical forms have evolved out of Jamaican styles, including dancehall, reggaeton and trip-hop. Whether it’s Bob’s son Ziggy Marley singing the theme song to the children’s TV show “Arthur,” a contestant on “America’s Got Talent” aping Shaggy’s “Mr. Boombastic,” or chart-topping pop star Sean Kingston, these days Jamaican music is everywhere, ensuring the little island will continue to be a big influence for many years to come.

JAMAICA’S CAN’T-MISS MUSICAL LANDMARKS

BOB MARLEY MUSEUM (Kingston) – This museum features the world’s largest collection of writings, photographs, artifacts, memorabilia and other mementos from the reggae legend’s extraordinary life. JAMAICA MUSIC MUSEUM (Kingston) – Currently undergoing revitalization, this museum chronicles the history and

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people who want to get some great experience. Music Writers, Movie Reviewers, Event Listings, Promotion Assistants Writers & Reviewers contact Bret Love: bret@insiteatlanta.com Events and Promotions contact Marci Miller: marci@insiteatlanta.com

MUSIC INTERVIEW

Marcy Playground Reunited... And It Sounds So Good I BY JOHN B. MOORE

N 1997, YOU COULDN’T WALK PAST A RADIO without hearing Marcy Playground’s alt rock song “Sex and Candy.” Two records later, the band was pretty much ignored by their label and the group quietly faded away. Though they never exactly broke up, drummer Dan Rieser started doing session work in New York, bassist Dylan Keefe started working behind the scenes as technical director for WNYC’s syndicated show “On the Media” and guitarist/singer John Wozniak moved up to Canada, where he bought a recording studio. A few years ago, when it looked like Keefe couldn’t get the time off, Wozniak started writing what started out as a solo record. Working through a painful divorce, the songs ultimately ended up becoming Marcy Playground’s fourth record “Leaving Wonderland… In a Fit of Rag” after Keefe joined in Canada, and the two found a new drummer in Israel native Shlomi. The result is the best album of the group’s 13-year-career. The songs are darker, far more revealing than past efforts and evoke a strong Americana vibe. Speaking backstage before a recent show, the trio talked about the new record, working with a new drummer and the trials of putting out their first record sans label.

How long have you guys known each other? John: Fourteen years from next weekend.

Shlomi, how did you get involved with the band? Shlomi: Dylan’s wife is one of my best friends. Every time Dylan came to Israel to see me play I’d say, “You really need to ﬁre your drummer and hire me.” Seriously, I guess the slot was empty and I had just come to the states. Dylan: Ever since I heard Shlomi in Israel I said, “Man, he’d be perfect for this band”. John: the funny think about Shlomi is that he also owned a studio for the

I was actually surprised that “Shape Shifter”, (the follow up to the incredibly successful debut) did not do better than it did? Dylan: You can always blame a gazillion different things… John: No, it’s very cut and dry what happened with that album. What happened was Gary Gersh left Capitol Records (he was president of the label at the time)and so did basically Gary’s team, everyone who had been there for the Foo Fighters, Everclear, Radiohead… Dylan: We had just sold two million records for this company and we basically had to reintroduce ourselves to a whole new group of people. They didn’t know who we were and didn’t give a fuck. John: No, it wasn’t that they didn’t give a fuck. They did. What the problem was is that there was an edict that came down from the head office in England that said you need to stop working the rock thing and jump on the next big thing, which was the Britney Spears type music. Overnight, their budget for pop music took off and their budget for rock bands was completely cut. Dylan: They gave us one month’s worth of tour support and then cut it.

MY ROOTS MUSICALLY COME FROM AMERICANA. MY MOM’S SIDE OF THE FAMILY COMES FROM TENNESSEE AND THEY’RE SOUTHERN BAPTIST AND THEY DON’T WATCH TELEVISION. THEY SIT AROUND WITH GUITARS AND SING. THAT ELEMENT IN ITSELF IS KIND OF DARK.

Let’s talk a little bit about the time between when “MP3” came out (2004) and now this release. Did you guys eventually call it quits as a band? John and Dylan: (at the same time) Never. Did you take time off? John: Definitely. With bands, it might appear from the outside that you make some kind of formal decision, but with Dylan and I, we had other things going on at other times. Like I had a recording studio I owned and was running (in Canada) and (Dylan) was in New York doing radio. In Behind the Music they always say “And then they split up.” But it never really happened like that. So you were each doing your own thing for awhile. What I understand, John, you initially started this record out as a solo project, right? John: Yeah, that’s right. I recorded it as a solo album, mainly because I wasn’t going to be able to tour with Dylan because he was so busy at the radio station. I couldn’t take him away from his job because he’s got bills to pay. This is rock and roll, we don’t make money. And then Dylan’s time freed up. So I was like, let’s go and make a Marcy record again. How was the writing process different then as a solo effort? John: That’s never changed. Basically I write the songs and I bring them to Dylan, and now I’ll be bringing them to Shlomi. It seems like this record is a bit darker than some of the past efforts? John: What it is, I think it’s a little more Americana and a lot more personal. My roots musically come from Americana. My mom’s side of the family comes from Tennessee and they’re Southern Baptist and they don’t watch television. They sit around with guitars and sing. That element in itself is kind of dark.

same seven years that I owned my studio. Shlomi: My studio was called, in English, Cauliflower Studios and John’s was called Mushroom Studios. So what happened to your old drummer? John: What I think it was, after “MP3” came out we toured for about four or six weeks… Dylan: Dan, our former drummer who had been with us for so long, he’s gone on and played with Norah Jones and has toured with her and others. He has mostly stayed in New York and played around there. John: Aside from our first drummer, we’ve never had a falling out with any musician from our band. Dan’s actually a great friend and had a great opportunity to play with Norah. He wanted to stay in New York and do a lot of session work…. What happened is we toured for a few weeks after “MP3” came out and that was it. We didn’t really tour after that and sort of just lost touch. Shlomi, has it been tough at all being the new guy, playing with these two who have been together for so long? Shlomi: No, no. I get along with them much better than they get along with each other. Because you recorded in your own studio, it was probably nice not to have to worry about deadlines and getting out of the studio on time. John: Oh definitely, because that can really kill a vibe. I didn’t want the process to take too long because then you lose inspiration, so we didn’t actually take that long to do it. When we got in there, I think we only spent about four weeks of tracking. We had a ton of great musicians from Vancouver come in.

So is there any sense of justice in watching the labels implode right now? Dylan: Of course. Capitol is pretty much just a catalog company now.

When it came time to put out the new record, did you find that the model had changed in how to put out an album? John: It’s a totally different world. It’s vastly more liberating. I’ve always been a big proponent of team work. When you’re on a major label you’re really not part of a team, you’re handled. To me, there’s no sustainability to that. People come and go all the time. I want to know that people are going to be there and that people are honest with you. The alternative to a major label is to do it yourself. We started a label, Woz records, we found a distributor, you find a publicity firm that you really love, you find a radio promotions person that you really like and you put your team together. That way, you can pick the people that are the most solid, the most genuine and the people who honestly give a shit about you and the music that you’re putting out. You can’t do that with a major label, because you can’t hire and fire those people. You’re stuck with people who may not give a shit about you…. You also don’t have to sell a million records to make a living. That is a whole new world. You’ve got a new record out, a rarities album out later this year and you’re touring once more. Is it going to be another four or five years before the next record? John: No. that’s actually a good question. Because if you look at our history, we have an album out every two to four years or so, but the funny thing is, life happens. As a human being you can’t do anything about life happening except go with the flow. Sometimes that interferes professionally with what you’re doing. After the success of the first record there’s all kinds of questions about the second record. Can we live up to it? It’s a different music world. It’s a different business and right now we’re very comfortable about who we are as a band. Dylan: That’s totally new. It doesn’t feel like we have to go through some birthing process. We feel comfortable with where we are.

What about lyrically? John: I was going through a really difficult time in my life. I got divorced from my first wife; I’ve since remarried, when I was writing these songs. Just really sort of delving into the way I was feeling at the time and translating that into music just really came naturally for probably the first time in my life. I’ve always had a healthy distance between my emotional self and my creative self. My subconscious mind was always very active in my songwriting. This was the first time in my songwriting when my conscious mind and my emotions really started to come into play. Did you try and hold yourself back at all realizing it was too personal? John: Yeah, there’s one song I did. Dylan: It’s called “You Fucking Bitch” (laughs). John: Actually it’s a very intense song for me. I don’t even know if I named it. It’s really hard for me to go back and listen to the recordings. It’s a song about an experience I had when I was hit by a car when I was really young. It’s about that experience and how it relates to my relationships. I can’t play it for anybody. I played it for my wife and she said “Yeah, you can’t release this.” Dylan: During that time, I went out to do some preproduction on the record, but I was really going out there (Canada) to check up on John. He was having a really hard time and quite lonely. John: I checked myself into various programs and had to get myself a therapist. I had to save my life. It was that bad. PG 23 • insiteatlanta.com • August 2009

FEATURE

FALL CONTINUING EDUCATION GUIDE Setting Goals

The Key to Success in any Job Search BY ROGER PRESSWOOD In a period of record high unemployment rates, how do you stay focused and motivated when the news all around you is negative and your job search is going nowhere? The key is setting daily and weekly goals that help you produce results and create small successes that build upon one another until you reach your ultimate goal. Here's your plan for how to do it!

BREAK IT DOWN: If the only goal you've set is to get a job, you're going to be searching a very long time. You must choose smaller goals that will lead you to the job. Start by creating a weekly goal list for your job search. CREATE A WEEKLY & DAILY GOAL LIST: Your weekly and daily goal list will have specific targets for all of the major categories of your search; network contacts, resumes submitted, new contacts, targeted employers, information interviews, networking events, and interviews. For example, a goal of having performed 5 information interviews in 1 week is great, which breaks down to 1 per day, very manageable. Do this for every category and you are doing something that 99% of job seekers are not doing. DOCUMENT EVERYTHING: The most essential aspect of this plan is that all of your weekly &

daily activities must be documented in writing so that you can actually see your progress. You can use excel or a paper notebook to document your progress, it doesn't matter. Write down all your goal categories from "resumes submitted" to "networking contacts" and have specific goal numbers that you are shooting for each and every day so you can track your progress.

TWEAK YOUR GAME PLAN: If you find you set a goal to make 25 networking contacts in one week, you need to determine if that is a realistic goal for you. If you are just starting out, that may be ambitious, so the key is not to get discouraged and adjusting your goal for the following week, perhaps dropping it to 15. How do you know what is too much vs. not enough in any given area of your search? You want to feel that you are pushing yourself beyond your comfort zone, but not so much that you feel so overwhelmed to the point where you are no longer making progress. REWARD YOURSELF: Something that is extremely important but often overlooked is that you must give yourself a break from the job search. If not, you'll burnout and become ineffective. Once you have accomplished your daily or weekly goals, promise yourself that you'll doing something you enjoy whether that's watching a movie or taking a walk with a friend. Life is about balance, and that is true even in your job search! Roger Presswood Associate Director Alumni Career Services Georgia State University Fee based Resume & Career Assistance offered to the Public: Contact Rpresswood@gmail.com

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The International School of Skin & Nail Care (ISSN) is celebrating 24 years as a school and day spa in Sandy Springs. ISSN is where all the get people trained that work in Spas, Salons, Network TV, Doctors, Ships Cruise and manufacturing companies. Anywhere skin care treatments are given or nail care beauty is performed. Courses from Classic Facials to Microdermbrasion Facials, to waxing, make-up, to manicures and nail art are taught at the renowned International School of Skin and Nail Care (ISSN). Job placement is excellent and has remained near 100-percent for over a decade - no other school is close. ISSN’s long experience and being known in the Industry insures the graduate of a good job upon graduation. Over 320 active employers depend on ISSN for Esthetician and Nail Technician staffing. Programs start monthly for the convenience

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Continuing the tradition established in 1976, SAE Atlanta educates students for careers in the entertainment industry with the focus of hands-on training. Students gain invaluable experience working on real-world projects every day. SAE Atlanta currently offers two programs: SAE's Audio Technology Program, where students can earn an Associate of Science Degree (unique to SAE Atlanta) or an SAE Diploma. Students have access to over 30 studios and workstations while studying at SAE Atlanta. Included are analog and digital mix-down stations by Mackie and Yamaha, FX stations, and Apple computers throughout to complete digital editing, Pro Tools, sampling, and remix exercises. To round off the educational experience the facility boasts both the SSL 4000G+ and NEVE VR60 analog consoles. All graduates are provided job placement assistance and are eligible to become members of SAE's international Alumni Association. Financial assistance is available for those who quality and both full and part time classes are available. For more information contact their Admissions Department at 404-526-9366 or visit their web site at www.atlanta.sae.edu SAE Atlanta is located in Downtown Atlanta at 215 Peachtree Street Suite 300, Atlanta GA 30303.

Life University 800-543-3202 LIFE.edu

Life University was founded in 1974 as Life College, a school of chiropractic with only 22 students in its first class. Today, with more than 14,000 alumni, Life University, under the leadership of President Guy F. Riekeman and its fully committed Board of Trustees, has expanded to a complete and fully accredited university that offers two associate degrees, nine undergraduate degrees, a masters degree and a doctorate of chiropractic. With a diverse student population, Life University attracts students from all 50 states and 27 different countries. The College of Undergraduate Studies has nearly 500 students and offers two associate degree programs in nutrition technology, computer information management and life coaching; nine majors leading to the bachelor degree in business administration, computer information management, biology, exercise science, nutrition, dietetics, psychology, and biopsychology; and a master's degree in sport health science. The College of Chiropractic offers a Doctorate of Chiropractic degree and currently boasts an enrollment of approximately 1,400 students, doubling the enrollment numbers in just the past three years. This program features practice management courses that train students on how to manage a successful practice and provides valuable "hands-on" experience in the university's clinic system which includes clinical training abroad. In every program, students enjoy the benefit of a highly supportive atmosphere where work is often in team and group settings with highly qualified, caring faculty and supportive peers. From the president to all campus employees, Life University is committed to creating a student-centered learning environment, featuring a student-faculty ratio of 15:1. For more information, visit to www.Life.edu or call 1-800-543-3202. "Life provides a philosophic foundation to all of its students, chiropractic, graduate and undergraduate, in a way that's not found anywhere else. For me, as a chiropractic student, I came to Life for the quality of the technique instruction. It's also a beautiful, walk-able campus that offers a quiet and kind of quaint environment within a large and vibrant metropolitan area." -Adam Schwartz, chiropractic student from Port Huron, MI.

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FILM INTERVIEW

SUMMER LOVIN’ Zooey Deschanel & Joseph Gordon-Levitt on Their Latest Paring

BY MATT GOLDBERG

00) Days of Summer” isn’t the romantic comedy you’re used to but actors Zooey Deschanel and Joseph Gordon-Levitt have no problem with that. Friends since they worked together on “Manic” back in 2000, the two now play a couple in the unconventional film where Joseph plays hopeless romantic Tom who has fallen head-over-heels in love with the charming but cynical Summer played by Zooey Deschanel. We spoke to them about their characters, their own feelings toward romantic love, and the many talents of both actors. Can you each talk about your characters a little bit? ZOOEY DESCHANEL: Well, first off, I’m glad they made it with both of us. JOSEPH GORDON-LEVITT: Yeah, we’ve been friends for a long time. We did a movie called “Manic” ten years ago which is really different from “(500) Days of Summer” but I love it. It’s got Don Cheadle in it… ZD: I really like that film. You are fantastic in it! JG: So are you! ZD: That was the first of your intense roles. JG: Yeah, that was the first time anyone let me be serious for a second. But for this movie, how did you see the enigmatic “Summer”?

ZD: I saw her as someone who, within the context of the story…well, let me go to this: I saw it as a really interesting challenge as I wanted to make a very truthful character within the context of a very subjective film. I didn’t want to be playing into the romanticization of her too much. I wanted to leave that to Marc (Webb, Director). I wanted to create a character that was a girl that he [Tom, Joseph’s character] has deified. JG: And you grounded her…I remember we were talking about how to approach it and what tone because it could be sort of elevated and you really thought “No, I want to play it real.” And I like that you do that because then the dream/ cinematic stuff is grounded in something real. ZD: Yeah, I think this movie had such an entertaining script. It was purely delightful to read. But it’s one of those things where you think, “If they cast the wrong...” Because I was so nervous before they cast you because I was cast a few months before you and I knew they were talking to you but they were like “I’m not sure if we got him,” You were going to do, “G.I. Joe” JG: I had also never been in a $100-million dollar movie so… ZD: But I was just really nervous because if they get the wrong “Tom” or Marc has a different idea than I think he has…It was one of those films I could see going wrong because if you didn’t ground it in some kind of reality it would just be up in the air. You have to balance the bold choices so it remains something people can relate to.

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Joseph, you do a lot of unconventional stuff in this movie like breaking the fourth wall, doing a musical number, etc. What was that like? JG: I love doing stuff like that. You don’t often get to break the fourth wall and movies are so great for that. There’s a camera right there; why wouldn’t you want to look at it. ZD: Unless you accidentally look at the camera and then you’re like “Crap!” JG: But in hundreds of years of theatre tradition, the fourth wall was never there. It’s pretty new, actually. It’s become entirely prevalent but I love poking holes in that convention. Well the musical number is great but even better is the strut leading up to it. JG: [laughs] Yeah, well even when we weren’t dancing, we would on the Hall and Oates song for when we were shooting those strutting moments. ZD: That was so great because I remember a friend of mine was like “Whenever I feel bad…” she would just play this certain song in her head and she would walk around and be like “Yeah! Pretty cool!” And every time I tried to do it, without fail, something would materialize for me to trip over. It was like “I cannot listen to this song in my head anymore.” It does seem like even when Summer is at her most cynical, she was happy. Was that tough to bring both those qualities out? ZD: No, because I don’t think that having a philosophy is necessarily what determines your happiness. It seems like the two would go handin-hand, so she’s cynical but she’s doing what makes her happy. She’s not waiting for the right person. She’s just skeptical that there would be such a person. Did you know that Joseph could rock it out so well? ZD: I did! We’ve been friends for ten years. We’ve played music together a lot, actually. Joe is a really great musician. So those talents didn’t really surprise you on this film. ZD: No! Well…he can do flips. I didn’t know he could do that but he does it on the film and that’s insane. This man is like, insanely talented. You’re turning bright red so I’m gonna stop.

Joe, was playing the intensity of love like the other intense performances that Zooey mentioned? JG: That’s a good question. I wanted to bring the same kind of honesty. I think a lot of movies that get called “comedies” kind of shirk the need to be emotionally honest. “Oh, it’s just a comedy! We’re just trying to make people laugh! We don’t have to feel anything!” That’s exactly wrong so even though a movie— ZD: You take comedy seriously. JG: Yes. Comedy is no laughing matter. What kind of honesty were you able to bring to “G.I. Joe”? JG: Ah! Well…um… ZD: [singing] Cobra! Commander! JG: That movie has nothing to do with reality. It’s really about being an archetype. So you’re a soldier? A killer? JG: No, just a future ruler of the world. Do you both see this movie as an anti-romantic comedy or do you see this movie as letting the scales fall from people’s eyes? ZD: Post-modern romance. It’s very romantic. It just romanticizes a relationship that doesn’t last. JG: And I think it’s a new romantic comedy. Maybe a reborn romantic comedy. I think it’s explicitly in response to a culture where we’ve grown up on a bunch of movies that are sort of selling us a false bill of goods and Tom suﬀers the consequences of buying into those sort of simple twinkie romances. What are your inspirational romantic comedies? ZD: I would say like 30s comedies like “It Happened One Night” and “The Philadelphia Story”. And I like a lot of the French New Wave stuﬀ. I think it has a lot of heart and it’s funny. I mean, “Masculine/Feminine” was a movie I thought about a lot with this and “A Woman Is a Woman”. Joseph, can you tell us a little bit about doing the big action for G.I. Joe? JG: It’s great. It’s like playing with toys.

MUSIC INTERVIEW

FILM INTERVIEW

Frank Turner

POST GRAD

Rise of the Punk Rock Folkie

Alexis Bledel on Life After Gilmore Girls BY MATT GOLDBERG

Alexis Bledel stars in the upcoming ﬁlm Post Grad, which is about a young woman who has her life planned out ahead of her but discovers that after college, your life doesn’t exactly according to plan. She then has silly incidents with her wacky family. We recvently spoke to Bledel about her role in the ﬁlm and what she took from the experience as well as her other interests and current charity work.

I’m just interested in anything that feels creative or diﬀerent. I love soccer, I like to be active, and work out. Have you ever gone bungee-jumping? I’ve never gone bungee-jumping, no! You know what part I’m not attracted to? The part where you bounce back. I think it would jar some bones. I don’t want to do that. Sky-diving’s more attractive because it’s like ﬂying, but I haven’t tried it yet.

Is the message of this movie that a girl should Are you involved in any charity work at the mogive up her dream and go across the country to ment? live with her man? I’ve just started getting into charity work. I’ve No, not at all. I think it’s about how you can’t been trying to ﬁnd one I plan everything and you can be fully involved with I’M JUST INTERESTED IN have to take what life because sometimes you just throws your way. I think THAT FEELS ANYTHING lend your name to a charity it follows her journey, and and don’t really do anything. other people do that. They CREATIVE OR DIFFERENT. I I started doing some work adapt. on this one called “Peace

LOVE SOCCER, I LIKE TO BE ACTIVE, AND WORK OUT.

So you think she should go and get out and not just live in this one town? Yeah, I think so. I think you should see diﬀerent places if you have the opportunity and that work is not everything. We ﬁlmed this before the economic crisis so now it’s kind of scary to give up a job. That wouldn’t happen, really. Now it seems kind of silly. But she does have a safety net in her family and she knows she can go back there so to give this relationship a chance and her personal happiness, I think it still makes sense. It’s a postfeminist story.

Well I assume you got into your work, acting, very early on and it was your passion. I kind of discovered acting while I was in college at NYU. I started auditioning because I had a modeling agent and it was in the same office where I met my manager. I kind of fell into it. So it was an early passion? It wasn’t, actually. I found it as a young adult. So is this the job for you then? Oh yeah, definitely. I love what I do. It’s kind of interesting discovering something as an adult. That kind of has to do with the film and being open to different things that come your way because there are so many different things about you that every day, like if you’re in television, you have a new scene and a new challenge. But on a film, you start from scratch and they really like that a lot. I love everything about it. What kind of other things would you like to try?

Games” in New York. About seven diﬀerent schools in the New York area have this set-up and it basically teaches kids to deal with conﬂict in a non-violent manner. So they play games and learn how to communicate. It’s a really amazing program and you can really tell when kids have been through it because they just communicate better with each other. And they love it. They absolutely love it.

What do you get out of it? I feel like I’ve learned so much. They’re so smart. There was an event recently where all the schools got together and I talked to some middle-school kids and had four big groups come in and asked them how they felt about media and how they were aﬀected by it and how they were inspired by diﬀerent performers. These kids, they really get it. Like you’ll ask who they like and they’ll say “Obama”, and they didn’t say actors necessarily. Can you talk a little bit about how you see your character in the film? Ryden is a young lady who has everything planned out for her future. She’s extremely confident, almost at all times. And then she gets kind of knocked down until she hits rock bottom and has to kind of change her way of thinking. I think a lot of people are that way where they have something in mind for themselves and don’t entertain any other ideas whatsoever. It’s a strong personality. But it’s not like my own. I kind of fall into different things and I don’t want to limit myself to that one vision I have in mind. I want to just see what comes my way.

BY JOHN B. MOORE

Who will be releasing the new CD in the U.S.? I’m literally days away from signing a deal with an amazing label for worldwide distribution, but I can’t say who right now, sorry! But yeah, my, um, operation in the States is going to really step up a level later this year, and I’m really excited about that. (Editor’s Note: A few weeks after the interview, it was announced that Frank Turner had signed with Epitaph Records).

t’s been about four years since Frank Turner turned down the amps and picked up an acoustic guitar, but he is still every bit a punk rocker at heart. His latest effort, Love Ire & Song is a brilliant collection of angst, rebellion, hope and acceptance. More than a dozen tracks drawing on influences as disparate as Bad Religion and Bob Dylan. A member of the former hardcore group Millions Dead, Turner has moved Do you find it harder playing as a solo musician vs. being to a folksier sound with his solo releases. The indie stalwart Epitaph recently signed Turner and has in a band? Is there more pressure knowing it’s your name out front? agreed to release Love Ire & Song in the U.S. Meanwhile, I’d characterize it by saying that everything’s more his earlier album, Campfire Punkrock, is finally getting extreme. When things go badly, then it’s worse, but when a vinyl release from Good Friends Records. Turner has they go well, it’s better - I take the credit (ha, ha). Right now, also just been tapped to open up for everyone from The having the regular backing band Offspring to Gaslight Anthem this that I play with, I get a really great summer. balance of both worlds, and I’m BEING ENGLISH GIVES Turner spoke with us recently about his new life as a folk rocker YOU SOMETHING OF A really happy with that set up. and the appeal of American crowds, How have the tours with Gaslight HEAD START IN THE politely apologizing for being a Anthem and Anti-Flag been “prick tease.” U.S. WITH AUDIENCES going? The Gaslight tour was an – YOU GUYS ARE It’s been a few years since you left absolute pleasure - those guys are Million Dead. Do you ever miss ON ANGLOPHILES, a fucking great band and a really playing louder? nice bunch of chaps too. We had a THE WHOLE. THAT’S Yeah, there are days when I miss blast, and hopefully we’ll be on the it, particularly the physicality of NOTHING TO COMPLAIN road together again soon, I miss the shows. The problem is though ‘ e m. The Anti-Flag shows actually that hardcore is the easiest style of ABOUT, IT MAKES MY didn’t happen. Justin broke his colmusic to play badly - so many bands lar bone at a show in the UK just A LITTLE EASIER! JOB do. If the heart isn’t in it, you can before we were due to go to Rustell straight away and it’s fucking so the trip got cancelled, which was a bummer. I have a sia, terrible. When I was 19 years old or whatever I had the fire show with them in Zurich coming up though, so we’ll get and the right kind of anger to sustain playing in that kind of to meet and hang out, which I’m looking forward to. band and touring all year round. These days, not so much, and the last thing I’d want to do is to give the world more bad hardcore. There’s already so much of it (ha, ha). These days I get to tour with a backing band in the UK, and that kinda covers all bases for me now.

When the band broke up, did you know all along you wanted to start playing more acoustic/folk songs? I started doing this pretty much straight away. We did a farewell tour, so I’d had a little time to think about it. I can’t say I was sure I’d be doing it long-term though. I think part of me thought it was a stop-gap thing to do while I ﬁgured out my shit. It so happened that I’d stumbled across my niche in life, so I’m still here now, which is lucky! What can you tell me about the follow up record to Love Ire & Song? I’m working on it right now. The previous records I’ve done have been very meticulous processes - me playing most of the instruments, laying things down track by track and so on. This time round I’m hitting the studio (in May) with my band and we’re going to record as live as possible, try to get a more raw, earthy sound. We’re working with Alex Newport, which is going to be great. Right now we’re rehearsing like machines, going through the songs over and over until they’re note-perfect. Actually I think my band hates me now a little bit (ha, ha). I’m a bit of a slave-driver sometimes. The record’s called “Poetry Of The Deed” and it’ll be out in September.

Is there a difference to the audiences in the U.S. vs. Europe? Being English gives you something of a head start in the U.S. with audiences - you guys are Anglophiles, on the whole. That’s nothing to complain about, it makes my job a little easier! I’d definitely say the U.S. is my favorite place to tour outside the UK, and objectively I think American audiences are really great, but at the end of the day I’m an Englishman through and through, and it’s always a blast playing to a home crowd. You’re touring with Offspring later this year? Ever toured with them before? Do you know what to expect? That tour is kind of keeping me awake at night right now. It was a direct request from the band, which is hugely flattering. I grew up listening to those guys, and just to meet them would be great. The tour is going to rule. It’s going to help me out in the States a lot I think and I’m really excited to be on it. But it’s a BIG tour! Like, many thousands of people a night, and I’m not stereotypically punk. Essentially I think I’m going to have to prove myself each night, and while I’m confident and like a challenge, this is, uh, a big one. Campfire Punkrock is being released on vinyl in the U.S. any plans for other re-releases in the U.S.? Yeah we’re working on some ideas. Actually, a lot depends on this deal I’m about to do which I can’t talk about. Sorry to be such a prick tease. PG 27 • insiteatlanta.com • August 2009

MUSIC INTERVIEW

A Hard-Knock Lyfe Neither an Usher-like Superstar or a Coffeehouse Crooner, Lyfe Jennings’ Tale Begins somewhere comfortably in between

BY DEMARCO WILLIAMS

YFE JENNINGS HAS ENDURED HARDships. In fact, the tumult the 36year-old singer’s endured is the central source of his soulful catalog. You’ve heard songs like “Must Be Nice,” “S.E.X.” and “Cops Up.” Lyfe’s dealt with some real ish. He’s served time for past wrong-doings. He’s been a part of the rumor mill. So, when he collaborates with Nas, T.I., Snoop and Rick Ross, the sound is authentic for a reason. They’ve all seen and done similar things.

But on the flip, Lyfe’s also tasted the glory. Three albums into a respected recording career, Jennings has gone platinum (Lyfe 268-192 in ‘04), won Grammys and brought just about every sistah in America to ecstasy in her iPod. With the September release, Sooner or Later, about to come out the stove, you can bet more late-night simmering is going down. INsite recently chatted with the smooth operator about the music, life’s ups and downs, memories of MJ and just about everything else. How do you approach recording differently in ’09 compared to ’04? I think, musically, stuff is more beat-orientated. I kinda feel like I have a niche. It’s a reason people go and buy Lyfe Jennings. It doesn’t have all the choreographed beats, but it’s still something there for them. In that aspect, I’m doing stuff the same. In another aspect, I’m trying to broaden my fan base by taking some chances with some different music. I like some rock stuff. Are you walking a fine line to keep the old fans happy too? My strategy for getting a new fan base is just staying in the game. I don’t wanna change my whole thing and have fans saying, “Oh, this is not the Lyfe Jennings that we liked at first.” The longer you stay in the game, the longer your name spreads. I think if you try to jump over that line to get a different fan base, you might not ever be able to come back. You’ve made headlines for some good and some bad. What has kept you level through all the ups and downs? Actually, all the ups and downs keep me going.

My music comes from experience. The only thing I write about is stuff I’ve experienced firsthand. Those instances actually keep me in the game. I think if everything was all good or all bad, life would be one-sided. You come off poetic in most of your verses. Do you read a lot of books or follow much poetry? I definitely do my share of reading. I think, before anything else –even before artist- I think I’m a writer. I write movies and books and stuff like that. With my music, I want it to make sense. I want it to read kinda like a book, except set to music.

or Later? I think every song is powerful in of itself. A lot of times, [consumers] will get a couple of good songs on the album but aren’t particularly happy with the rest. People call them “album fillers.” I’m glad that every song on the album is powerful and can stand on its own two feet. I’m happy about the content. Sometimes I struggle, trying to make something in between popular and more introspective. That’s a fine line in and of itself. I think I did a fine job, song-forsong and the total compilation of all the songs together. I think I made a good decision about the label I’m on. Now I have more creative control. It’s my label, Jesus Swings. It’s my first project off Jesus Swings/ Warner Bros. I’m also satisfied with the features that I have. I demanded a greater character out of them. With a guy like Fab[olous], his subject matter might not [otherwise] be appropriate. I commanded those guys to dig deeper.

I THINK SUCCESS IS LIKE LOVE. IT’S REALLY AN ACTION. IT’S MOMENT TO MOMENT. YOU CAN ACHIEVE SUCCESS IN CERTAIN THINGS AND NOT ACHIEVE IT IN OTHERS.

While there may not be an outward influence, I’m guessing it’s safe to say Michael Jackson influenced you in some fashion, right? Michael Jackson was my first introduction to a performance. The music was great. You definitely heard that on the radio. But every time this guy performed, you’d pay money to see him perform. I try to mimic that in my shows. Also, as you go through your life, certain things –life experiences, different girlfriends- from Mike are like bookmarks to those times. I know what I was doing at that time ‘cuz “Beat It” had just came out. I knew what I was doing at that time ‘cuz that’s when the glove was real popular or the curl was real popular. So, by association, you have memories that you otherwise wouldn’t have ‘cuz life goes by so fast. What are you really proud about with Sooner

Lyfe, deﬁne success for me. And have you reached it? I think success is like love. It’s really an action. It’s moment to moment. You can achieve success in certain things and not achieve it in others. It’s kinda hard to sit down and look at the overall picture and say I’m successful. My deﬁnition of successful is doing the right thing at the right time. That doesn’t always happen. Am I successful? As far as bringing positive music and bringing something for people to think about and help their life, yes. As far as being a big recording artist, no, I’m not successful in that aspect of it. As far as being able to take something from the fans, as far as their empathy and their gravitation to the music and them keeping me centered and doing what people love me for, yeah, I think I’m successful in that.

MUSIC INTERVIEW

Drag The Martian Punk Stalwart Jon Snodgrass Goes It Alone BY JOHN B. MOORE

Tunes is stacked with musical legends who do nothing more than re-release the same album over and over again. Jon Snodgrass is not one of those musicians. Whether it’s playing ‘90s pop/punk in Armchair Martian or drown-your-sorrows cowboy rock in Drag the River, Snodgrass can never be accused of writing the same song twice. So it’s no surprise than that his solo work is just as diverse. Snodgrass, just weeks away from the release of his first solo record, Visitor’s Band, spoke with us about playing punk rock and set the record straight about Drag the River’s demise. What made you decide to finally do a solo record now? I’m going out to do a bunch of solo shows here in the States and in Europe with my friend Joey Cape. I wanted to have some fresh music out. That’s all, really. I always hope to put something out once a year. Drag The River has too many songs as it is. I just sent out music for three different new DTR 7 inches the same day I sent my record. One of them consists of songs we pulled from the last release that didn’t fit., but the other two are things Chad and I tracked a couple months ago. What can people expect it to sound like? I didn’t want to make a record that sounded like Drag the River or sounded like Armchair Martian....so it kinda sounds like both. Whoops... I am what I am, it seems. What musicians did you record with? I did a song in Rhode Island with Two Cow Garage, my PG 28 • insiteatlanta.com • August 2009

friend Emerson Torry Jr. and his Dad, Emerson Torry. It’s a song I taught to Two Cow the night before by playing it on the jukebox at Jake’s bar in Providence. Emerson’s dad was in a band called The Schemers with Mark Cutler. E.T. Jr. and I had always wanted to cover this song of theirs. Two Cow is good and we pulled it off live in the second take I think; Then eight songs in Kansas with Chad Rex, Matt Brahl and Jason Magierowki. Same deal, live with a lot of bleed; one song in San Jose with Eric Powers, Chad Rex and John Elliot. We used a big kick drum and recorded in a big house; A bunch more in New Brunswick, New Jersey with Chris Pierce. Joe from the ERGS! came and played some bass one night too. I like recording songs wherever I can. You put yourself in different situations and just see what happens. I never like the idea of booking time in a studio. You never know if you want to make a record 2 months or weeks down the road. So is Drag the River officially over or just taking a break? I NEVER said Drag the River was over...and it never will be. We will have played 50 shows this year. I think that’s the way we should’ve been doing it for a long time. We missed Minneapolis, Richmond and a couple other places. We’ll do those at some point. Chad is doing the California part of the tour with Joey (Cape) in February. We’re playing this weekend with the band and going to Florida in January... So yeah, it’s still a thing. I love playing with Chad. We were running it pretty hard for a long time though. Do you plan on doing more solo records in the future? I could. Like I said, this was just a collection of songs written

at the same time. It’s funny ‘cause up until three weeks ago I’d thought eight of them were lost. I wasn’t too concerned...I hadn’t heard them since we’d tracked them. I’m glad they turned up because they came out better than expected. We were just goofing around in Kansas with some new songs. We got decent sounds and Chris Fogal mixed them for us in Denver a couple weeks ago. Anyhow, I kinda thought I was gonna put out a 7 inch. 12 inches is better. Do you ever miss playing the punk music you started out with? I still play it.

WE GOT NEXT MACK BROWN: Running Back, MLK High School MICHAEL BENNETT: Wide Receiver, Alpharetta High School TAI-LER JONES: Wide Receiver, Gainesville High

BY DEMARCO WILLIAMS

HINK GEORGIA’S A HOTBED FOR HIP hop? The music scene can’t hold a note to the boys hitting in helmets. Champ Bailey, Jamal Lewis and Calvin Johnson are but a few of the homegrown names that have gone on to dominate at the collegiate and NFL levels in recent years. INsite talks with three high school seniors who look to carry on the peach state tradition.

MACK BROWN Running Back, MLK High School

Why did Florida stand out in the recruiting war? Those two schools told me how they’re going to use me. They’ve been recruiting me the hardest so far. [Coach Meyer] He’s a great coach. He’s forward with you every time you talk to him. We have good conversations and he tells me I’d be a great person to help them win a national championship at the University of Florida. Deﬁne your game. My game is a quick pace. I have a lot of vision. I have quick feet. A lot of people say I don’t have the strength, but not one person is going to bring me down. I feel like I’m a balanced type running back… Oh yeah, I work harder. I’m running as hard as I can to help my team win.

Footsteps: Eric Dickerson, Roger Craig, Marcus Allen What’s in Store: One of the country’s most complete backs wants to improve on last year’s 1,702 yards and 21 touchdowns before taking his elusive game to the University of Florida. Mack, what’s a typical oﬀseason day like? At 8-10AM we have school workouts. From 1-3PM I have workouts with my trainer. After that I be chillin’ at the house, playin’ the game, Madden and Halo 3.

Name areas where you can get better? I want to get better at pass blocking, gain more weight and be 198, 200 pounds by season’s start.

MICHAEL BENNETT Wide Receiver, Alpharetta High School MACK BROWN

MICHAEL BENNETT

Athletes on the verge of making it big

Footsteps: Brandon Stokly, Muhsin Muhammad, Eric Moulds What’s in store: This Pennsylvania native has evolved into one of the Class of 2010’s ﬁnest set of hands. The Georgia Bulldogs will have their paws all over the guy next year. This is your last summer of high school. How does that feel? It feels good, but at the same time, it’s kind of sad that high school football is over, you know? High school football is a whole diﬀerent thing. You’re playing with your friends. You know pretty much everyone in the stands. Then, when you get to college, you only know a few people out there. High school is a special thing. It’s going to be sad when it’s over, but then you gotta look forward to college. When you watch the Larry Fitzgeralds and Hines Wards on TV, what are you looking for? They just go up there and play hard. They make plays. Larry Fitzgerald doesn’t hold back when he plays. The same with Hines Ward. Those guys just make plays all the time. That’s the kind of player I want to be. I want the ball in my hands every play. The team can always count on [Fitzgerald and Ward] to make the play.

TAI-LER JONES

LOCAL EVENT

Fall College Night Celebrates

LOUVRE ATLANTA T

HE HIGH WILL HOST A FALL College Night on Saturday, September 12, from 7 p.m. to midnight. The event is themed in coordination with the final weekend of Louvre Atlanta, the High’s unprecedented three-year collaboration with the Louvre Museum in Paris. The final exhibition, “The Louvre and the Masterpiece,” explores the definition of a masterpiece and features ninety-one works of art drawn from all eight of the Musée du

Footsteps: Hines Ward, Torry Holt, Herman Moore What’s in store: ESPN believes the future Stanford Cardinal is one of the 20 best receivers in the country. After 979 yards and 81 receptions in ’08, we do too. What will you bring to the Pac 10 next year? They’re going to receive a player that makes plays anywhere on the field. I’m explosive when I get the ball. I can turn a five-yard route into a 50-yard touchdown. I’m basically a leader who leads his team on the field and off the field. What makes you a special wideout? I feel that my quickness and my ability to get the jams and use my mind on the field makes me a special receiver.

What do you do away from the ﬁeld? During holidays, I might go with my family and do community service. Feed homeless families and donate clothes I can’t wear anymore. I play baseball and track too.

When did you know you were special? When I was in the seventh grade and I was playing in the championship game and I scored the winning touchdown.

Saturday, September 12, 2009

TAI-LER JONES Wide Receiver, Gainesville High

To get even more special, where do things need to improve? Deﬁnitely getting bigger, faster, stronger skills. Making my routes as quick as possible [too].

What do you do better than most at your position? I think I can ﬁnd the seam quicker than most running backs. I see lanes that most running backs don’t see and I hit the lanes as fast as I can.

BY JESSICA STEPHENS

What do you love about Mark Richt’s Georgia program? They just made me feel at home. That’s a big thing. I have a really good relationship with most of the coaches. They’re going to give everybody a fair chance to play. If you’re ready to play, they’re going to play you. It doesn’t matter how old you are. I like that about the program. They’re a top program and they’re always going to compete for a SEC championship and even the national championship.

Louvre’s collection areas, spanning 4,000 years. In addition to live musical performances by Tealights, Jimi Cravity, and DJ Tabone, students and visitors will enjoy a night of gallery viewing, do it yourself craft workshops with Jen Morris and Cristina Vidal of Young Blood Gallery & Boutique, drawing in the galleries, and a showing of the film “The City of the Louvre.” Food and nonalcoholic beverages will be available for purchase. A feature of the evening will be the internationally recognized artist Mel Chin’s “Fundred Dollar Bill Project.” It is raising

local and national awareness of the hidden problems of lead pollution in New Orleans through the production of “Fundred Dollar Bills”. These original interpretations of U.S. one hundred dollar bills are hand drawn by school children and community members across the country. This feature is in collaboration with the Atlanta Contemporary Art Center, a collection site for the project. For more information, visit http:// www.thecontemporary.org/fundred.asp. Student admission will be $7 with a valid student ID; $5 per student with valid student IDs when booking a group of 10 or more; and $18 for general admission. Students with High Museum College Memberships get in FREE. Tickets and membership information are available online at www.high.org.

WINNER BEST LOCAL MUSIC!

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Thursdays & Saturdays 11pm in the Main Bar

DJ SKY OR DJ KNUMBSKULL Open Daily 5pm Ask About Atlanta Room for Private Parties

Photo Credit : Ayano Hisa

Photo courtesy of The High Museum of Art

1578 Piedmont Ave. 404-875-1522 www.smithsoldebar.com PG 29 • insiteatlanta.com • August 2009

SPORTS NEWS

FANATIC BY DEMARCO WILLIAMS “When [NFL commish Roger] Goodell’s “evaluation” period ends Oct. 6, the commissioner actually could extend the suspension, exacting his power upon Vick even further. There is something childish and vindictive and personal about this, and that is the secondary, more sinister element in the ruling. For all the headlines of Vick’s being “reinstated,” even partially, Goodell still has not said just when Vick will Vernon be eligible to appear in an NFL game, which Forrest is how players are paid. And already, Vick has been suspended from the NFL since Aug. 24, 2007.” –ESPN CONTRIBUTOR HOWARD BRYANT VERNON FORREST, the 38-year-old former boxing champ who was killed in Atlanta on July 25, was much more than the smooth puncher who gave Shane Mosely his first loss. Here are a few other things you may not have known about the fighter: 1) He launched Destiny’s Child group homes to provide shelter to mentally-challenged youth; 2) His nickname was “The Viper”; 3) He was the first person in his family to graduate from high school; 4) He was Ring Magazine’s 2002 Fighter of the Year “I’m not aware of anything close to this. I am sure the current economy is playing a significant role in terms of the shape of state budgets. The other part is that there’s either an acceptance of gambling or the acceptance that this is inevitable. There’s a sense of the traditional cultural resistance (to sports betting) is weakening.” –PAUL HAAGEN, DUKE PROFESSOR AND SPORTS LAW EXPERT, on the topic of states besides Nevada allowing sports betting “We needed some good equipment and Jeremy needed to sell because of his problems with NASCAR. It was a package deal. We got cars, haulers and equipment.” –RACING TEAM OWNER JOHN CARTER, after agreeing to buy the possessions of Jeremy Mayfield, a driver accused of failing multiple drug tests

A Monthly Sports Must-See TV Wrap-up Top 5 Games This Month

While the sports media world’s been obsessing over whether or not LAMAR ODOM was going to don a Lakers or Heat jersey next season, Fanatic was quietly nodding his head at another move. Portland’s acquisition of Andre Miller will go down as one of the savviest, most stealthy signings of the summer. Miller, who averaged a quiet 21 points in the playoffs and easily one of the top six point men in the league, will have a wonderful time getting the ball to the likes of Brandon Roy, Lamarcus Aldridge and even Greg Oden. The 10-year vet will also serve the dual role as teacher to upstart Blazer guard Jerryd Bayless. Great, under-the-ESPN-radar move by Portland. “First of all, coming back from an injury at his age is going to be a slow process because your body doesn’t recover as fast. What happens with most rehabbing pitchers is that the caliber of their bullets changes on a daily basis. One day, your arm feels really strong, your breaking ball has good snap and your differentials between offspeed pitches and fastballs are good. The next day, though, things can just seem really flat. When trying to come back from surgery, that flat feeling is one of the worst things a pitcher can endure.” –OREL HERSHISER, ON JOHN SMOLTZ’S START IN BOSTON (1-4) after shoulder surgery

And finally… International soccer star Ronaldo will play himself in an Iranian movie about 13-year-old Palestine girl who’s killed before realizing her dream of meeting the icon…The Cincinnati Bengals will pay nearly $250,000 to settle an ’04 lawsuit with season-ticket holders who claim they were forced to buy tickets they didn’t want… The British government’s budget for the ’12 London Games is $15 billion… Boxer Marco Antonio Nazareth died in late July after suffering a brain hemorrhage in a fight… Remember the names Marcus Thornton, Dion Waiters and Darius Quaries. Fanatic saw the high school hoopers in action a few weeks ago and they’re very, very special… Kurt Warner (37-year-old QB), Isaac Bruce (36, WR), Joey Galloway (37, WR) and Jason Elam (39, kicker) are a handful of the old timers Sporting News says still have fantasy football relevance.

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The Minnesota major could play host to Phil Mickelson’s emotional return after caring for his ailing wife for two months.

Arizona at Pittsburgh (August 13, 8PM, ESPN)

Whatever the Cardinals do in this Super Bowl sequel, their defense had better have Steeler WR Santonio Holmes covered.

The hate these two share on the diamond actually goes up a few notches when the calendar says August and September.

Buffalo at Tennessee (August 9, 8PM, NBC)

The oﬃcial ﬁrst game of the NFL preseason calendar. All is so, so, so, so, so, so right in the world.

Phoenix at L.A. (August 27, 10:30PM, NBA TV)

If you have not seen WNBA stars Diana Taurasi and Cappie Pondexter on the court, you are truly missing a sight.

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2 Day Rentals Rent 4 Get 2 FREE Open 24 �� 7 Days

THE LARGEST SELECTION UNDER ONE ROOF!

2205 Cheshire Bridge Rd. ��

Best Adult Video Store!

PG 31 • insiteatlanta.com • August 2009

We Take Fres h Serio us ly

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Award Winning Chicago Pizza In Atlanta!

Join our Loyalty Club and receive Coupons and Discounts Sign up at www.GreatPizzainAtlanta.com

It’s Quick, Easy and FREE!

�� (404)-885-9199

The Red Door Tavern

FOOTBALL M O BO BOOM SEASON IS ROOM BACK!

GA FAN BASE & MULTIPLE PLASMA SCREENS

LIVE MUSIC DANCE FLOOR W/ 2 POLES!

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BREAKFAST, LUNCH AND DINNER SANDY SPRINGS 5975 ROSWELL RD. SUITE G-25 | 404 252-1158 7 DAYS A WEEK… NORCROSS STARTING AT 7AM! 5270 Peachtree Pkwy. | 770-407-5885

CANDLER PARK

EAST COBB

1655 McLendon Ave. | 404.687.8888

1084 E. Johnson Ferry Rd. | 770-321-4445

MIDTOWN

TERMINUS

1001 Piedmont Ave. | 404.874.8887

3280 Peachtree Rd. | 404-477-0013

BUCKHEAD

www.ﬂyingbiscuit.com

3515 Northside Pkwy. | 404-816-3152

VOTED BEST IN ATLANTA ��

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�� Corner of N. Decatur & Clairmont

HOURS FOR BOTH STORES: �� www.mediterraneangrill .com

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NOW OPEN! MARKET PLAZA East Cobb / Marietta 1255 Johnson Ferry Rd.

BEST IN GREEK & ITALIAN CUISINE

Now 32 Years!

• Dine In or Take Out • Lunch & Dinner Specials • Zagat Rated

Authentic Middle Eastern and Greek Cuisine Cooked Fresh to Order

Landmark DINER 3652 Roswell Rd.

at the corner of Roswell & Piedmont Rd. 404-816-9090 www.landmarkdiner.com

RESTAURANT

Open 24 Hours

Every Friday & Saturday Night! Doors Open at 8pm Showtime 9pm www.ComedyGoldTV.com

CATERING AVAILABLE

Tickets $10 $5 w/ Student ID

�� Red Dawn, GHRelease, Sleepwalker & Zan-X Starting at $6.95

HOOKAHS Starting at $24.95

We’ve Mo ved Across the Street

Hand-blown Bubblers

New ROOR

Starting at $133.95

�� Detox Products

Pipes

Posters

Self Cigars & Body Defense Cigarettes Jewelry Products

�� NEW LOCATION��