INsite Atlanta July 2010 Issue

JULY 2010

www.insiteatlanta.com

VOL. 18, NO. 12 FREE

The

14th Annual

MusiIssuec

Interviews with: Sarah McLachlan 3PPOFZ t -ZGF +FOOJOHT t "OHFM $JUZ t +BNFT )BMM 1-64 4VNNFS $PODFSUT 7FOVFT BOE 'FTUJWBMT

CONTENTS • JULY 2010 • VOLUME 18.12 Atlanta’s

Entertainment Monthly

INTERVIEWS 06 JOHN LASSETER 10 TIFT MERRITT 11 SARAH MCLACHLAN 12 ANA DE LA REGUERA 12 DM SMITH 23 JAMES HALL 28 KAREN ELSON 28 ANGEL CITY 29 TIM HUDSON

FEATURES

This striking Exhibition showcases real human bodies, dissected and preserved through a revolutionary process allowing visitors to see themselves in a fascinating way like never before.

10

BODIES...The Exhibition will enlghten, empower, and inspire.

11

08 LITTLE 5 POINTS 09 BBQ 15 JULY 4TH EVENTS 16 SUMMER MUSIC GUIDE 24 MUSIC VENUES

An Exhibition of Real Human Bodies www.BodiesAtlanta.com

COLUMNS 04 AROUND TOWN 05 ON TAP 05 ON A DIME EVENTS 07 UNDER THE LIGHTS 13 MOVIE REVIEWS 14 VIDEO GAMES 14 VIDIOTS 18 CONCERT CALENDAR 19 ROAD WARRIORS 19 WE GOT NEXT 20 ALBUMS 31 FANATIC

12

EXPERIENCE YOUR

An Exhibition That Reveals The Strength of Your SENSES

29

www.insiteatlanta.com STAFF LISTING Publisher Stephen Miller steve@insiteatlanta.com National Managing Editor Bret Love bret@insiteatlanta.com Art Director / Web Design 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

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LIFE IN THE DARK

Contributing Writers / Interns: John Moore, Jon Latham, Ryan Loftis, Matt Goldberg, Rodney Hill, Alex S. Morrison, Sacha Dzuba, Alec Wooden, Roger Presswood, Dave Cohen, Russ Marshalek, Jennifer Sefa-Boakye, Jessica Cole, Jennifer Williams and Matt Connor 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 misleading 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.

© Copyright 2010, Be Bop Publishing, Inc. All Rights Reserved

Check out our Summer Music Guide on page 16.

“For about an hour, visitors navigate different environments in complete darkness, relying on all senses except sight, and ask questions of their visually impaired guide, whose faces they don’t see until leaving. Stumbling in darkness makes the Dialog visitor appreciate how visually oriented the world is - how would you go grocery shopping? How would you cross the street? - as well as the reliance on other senses such as sound and touch to navigate the world.”

- Elizabeth Landou, CNN

INTERNATIONAL BLOCKBUSTER - U.S.A. DEBUT ONLY IN ATLANTA

www.DialogTickets.com

BOTH AT ATLANTIC STATION!

PRODUCED BY:

PREMIER EXHIBITION CENTER

PREMIER EXHIBITIONS (NASDAQ:PRXI)

PG 3 • insiteatlanta.com • July 2010

Around Town All month long Fernbank Museum will host Geckos: Tails to Toepads, a live exhibition with 18 species and nearly 100 live geckos (not saving you money on car insurance) from around the world. Call 404-929-6400 or visit fernbankmuseum.org.

ALL JULY

Gordon-Biersch Brewery in Midtown will offer a special menu this month. Check out the Caribbeanthemed menu featuring the brewery’s latest brew, SommerBrau, through August 1.

Visit gordonbierschrestaurants.com for more details and reservations.

ALL JULY

Stone Mountain Park presents “Summer at the Rock” all month long. The event includes family friendly activities and shows at the Crossroads. There will also be a foam pit and a new show from Ritmo Blu. For more details and a complete list of events, visit stonemountainpark.com

ALL JULY

The High Museum of Art will offer Toddler Thursdays this month, giving families a chance to experience the museum’s preschool art program.

The program immerses children into the art world and lets them take home a piece of work all their own. Visit high.org for more info.

ALL JULY

Every Thursday night Ponder Wonder in East Atlanta will feature live hip hop and live art for Rhythm and Threads. You can also come Friday nights for Open Mic Poetry with a live band at 9pm. All shows are 18 and Up. Ponder Wonder is located at 1287 Glenwood Avenue. For more information, 404-941-7050 for details.

ALL JULY

Theatre/Film

Museums/Exhibits/Arts

Music/Comedy/Sports

The Braves only have 10 home games this month, so don’t miss them. The Florida Marlins come to town for a three game series on July 2. The Milwaukee Brewers and the San Diego Padres will also be in town. Go to braves.com for additional details and game times.

There may be a longer drive, but don’t miss Gwinnet Restaurant Week July 19-22. There will be 18 participating restaurants, including Aqua Terra Bistro in Buford, Park Café in Duluth and the Melting Pot in Duluth. For a complete list of prices and participating restaurants, visit gcvb.com.

Georgia Shakespeare at Oglethrope University begin the classic King Lear on July 7 as part of the company’s Summer Festival. For tickets and times, go to gashakespeare.org.

The Center for Puppetry Arts will present “Everybody Loves Pirates” beginning on July 20, a tale featuring a treasure hunt, a Lobster Boy and even a wise Sea Monkey. Tickets are $16. Go to puppet. org for showtimes.

JULY 02

JULY 07

The musical drama “I Dream” will open in Atlanta on July 9 on the Alliance Stage at the Woodruff Arts Center. The rhytm-and-blues opera follows the story of Martin Luther King, Jr. For ticket info, visit idreaminatlanta.com.

JULY 09

National comedian Hal Sparks will be in Atlanta on July 15-18 at the Laughing Skull Lounge next to Vortex. Tickets range from $20-$30. You’ll know Sparks from Talk Soup, Queer as Folk, VH1 and Dude, Where’s My Car?

JULY 15-18

Here’s a unique blend of music and imagery. The Atlanta Symphony Orchesta will present Plant Earth Live on July 16 at 8:30pm at Verizon Wireless Amphitheare. The music of the orchestra will blend with highlights of the Emmy winning series.

Visit woodruffcenter.org for more info.

JULY 16

If you’re looking for a great night out with an interesting band, check out Here Come The Mummies at Variety Playhouse on July 16 at 8:30pm. Tickets are $15 in advance or $18 the day of the show.

JULY 16

JULY 19-22

JULY 20

JULY 27

The Broadway hit “Rent” comes to the Center Theatre (5342 Tilly Mill Road in Dunwoody) starting on July 27. Ticket prices range from $20-$22.

Visit centertheatreatlanta.org.

The Coca-Cola Film Festival breaks out an oldie on July 30. Don’t miss “Caddy Shack” at 7:30pm at the Fabulous Fox Theatre. This would be great with a large group or the kids. A new generation needs to be introduced to the pool scene. Tickets are $8.

JULY 30

The Feminist Women’s Health Center will hold a panel on “What’s Race Got To Do With It!? Health Disparities and Black Women” on July 22 at 7pm. Call 404-248-5445 for more info, or go online to feministcenter.org.

JULY 22

The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra will conduct “Broadway Rocks,” a show covering songs from broadway hits like “Mamma Mia,” “Rent,” “Lion King” and “The Phantom of the Opera.” The show will take place on July 23 at 8pm in Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre. Visit woodruffcenter.org for more details.

JULY 23

Don’t miss Downtown Atlanta Restaurant Week beginning on July 26.

The specials inclue dinners for $25 and $35 per person at places like No Mas! Cantina, Thrive, Social and Sun Dial Restaurant. If these restaurants are usually our of your price range, this is the event for you. You can book online at atlantadowntown.com or buy calling the individual restaurants.

JULY 26

agave restaurant

an eclectic southwestern eatery & tequila bar . est. 2000

Reservations at 404 588 0006 or online at : www.agaverestaurant.com

Women’s · Men’s · Accessories

Hot Summer Fashions at Cool Prices

242 Boulevard S.E. Atlanta . 30312

Little 5 Points ��1111 Euclid Ave

404.658.1988 �

www.

ragorama.com

Mon - Thurs 11-8 � Fri & Sat 11-9 ��Sun 12-7

Flicks on 5th

Outdoor Summer Film Series

WEDNESDAYÊNIGHTSÊatÊTECHÊSQUAREÊ JulyÊ7th JulyÊ14th JulyÊ21st

of

Consistently Voted One Of Atlanta’s Best Restaurants INsite Magazine Best of Atlanta Winner Best Southwestern Cuisine & Best Margarita !!

PG 4 • insiteatlanta.com • July 2010

Ê TheÊHurtÊLocker (R)ÊÊ ÊÊÊÊ FantasticÊMr.ÊFox (PG)Ê ÊÊÊÊÊ HotÊTubÊTimeÊMachine (R)

TechÊSquare (5thÊSt.ÊbetweenÊSpringÊSt.Ê&ÊTechwoodÊDr.) � SeatingÊopensÊatÊ7pmÊ� MoviesÊstartÊatÊ9pmÊ� ComeÊearlyÊandÊenjoyÊdinnerÊfromÊoneÊofÊtheÊmanyÊ 5thÊStreetÊrestaurantsÊ� www.flickson5th.gatech.edu

FREEÊADMISSION MovieÊscheduleÊisÊsubjectÊtoÊchange.ÊGuestsÊareÊ *welcomeÊtoÊbringÊchairsÊandÊblankets.ÊPleaseÊleaveÊ umbrellasÊandÊpetsÊatÊhome.ÊEventÊisÊrainÊorÊshine.

Other Stuff

LOCAL

LOCAL EVENTS

On Tap this Month EMAIL EVENTS TO ONTAP@INSITEATLANTA.COM

July 4: All over Atlanta

PEACHTREE ROAD RACE

This year’s Fourth of July tradition will feature 55,000 runners competing in one of the country’s best known 10K races. The race starts at Lenox Square Mall and follows a path that winds through the heart of the city.

Restaurants and bars along the route offer specials and many have live entertainment to greet the runners as they pass by. The race kicks off at 7:30 AM. For more info, visit www.atlantatrackclub.org.

July 4: Lenox Mall, Stone Mountain, Centennial Park

FOURTH OF JULY FIREWORKS SHOWS

The big three shows this year include 4th of July at Lenox Square, Stone Mountain Park and at Centennial Olympic Park. Along with their fireworks displays, Lenox Square and Centennial Olympic Park will both feature food, live musical entertainment and children’s activities. Stone Mountain will kick off their fireworks display with their Laser Show Spectacular. For more, visit lenoxsquare.com, centennialpark.com or stonemountainpark.com

July 10: Georgia World Congress Center

EVENTS HAPPENING FOR SMALL CHANGE IN ATLANTA

Know of a low cost event of happening? Event@AtlantaOnADime.com

By Marci Miller

A-TOWN DAY (SUMMER EDITION) Saturday, June 26, 12:00pm, $5.00 Children under 6 are free Historic Auburn Avenue, atownday.com

A-Town day is a health care festival, concert, and a major day of “Awareness” celebrating all things Atlanta. This year’s A-TOWN DAY will benefit the Diabetes Association of Atlanta and the B-AWARE Foundation. The family can enjoy funfilled activities, food and music while receiving free health screenings and information. Entertainment will include performances from artists from every type of music genre, Hip Hop, R&B, Spoken Word, Rock, & Gospel and will share health care and environmental statistics before each performance.

GREASE SING-A-LONG

Thursday, July 1, Party at 7:30pm Movie at 8:30pm, Free Atlantic Station, 171 17th Street NW atlanticstation.com

SPORTFIGHT X: UNDEFEATED

MMA has swept the nation by storm and is quickly becoming a mainstream sport. Home of several UFC veterans and rising stars alike, Sportfight X returns with “Undefeated’.” The tourney will feature eight of the countries toughest unbeaten fighters competing for a pro contract, a championship belt and to prove they are MMA’s next star. All ages are welcome.

Tickets start at $29. For tickets, VIP, group and sponsorship information visit sportfightx.com.

July 17: 200 Peachtree Building

NBAF’S “STORMY SUPPER CLUB”

The National Black Arts Festival will present “Stormy’s Supper Club” on July 17 at 7pm as part of its 2010 Gala: A Gathering of Colors. The event will feature actress and director Jasmine Guy, bassist-composer Avery Sharpe, trumpeter Joe Gransden and his 16-piece big band and actress Lynn Whitfield as hostess. For tickets and information, visit nbaf.com or call 404-730-6369. Reserve seats quickly as space is limited.

July 24: Cobb Energy Centre

THE ULTIMATE MICHAEL EXPERIENCE

Miss the King of Pop? Then head to the Cobb Energy Perfoming Arts Center on July 24 at 8pm for “The Ultimate Michael Experience: A Tribute to the King of Pop.” The 90-minute concert will pay homage to the world’s most successful artist. The production includes a Jackson impersonator. Tickets begin at $17 and can be found at ticketmaster.com. Call 800-745-3000 for details. Also visit cobbenergycentre.com.

July 30: Fox Theatre

COCA-COLA FILM FESTIVAL

We’re in the middle of another great season of the Coca-Cola Film Fest at the Fox Theatre. This month don’t miss a chance to see the classic “Caddyshack” on July 30 at 7:30pm. The next day features “How To Train Your Dragon” on July 31 at 2pm and “Iron Man 2” at 7:30pm. “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid” plays on Aug. 1. For more info, visit foxtheatre.org. Tickets are only $8, and can be found at ticketmaster.com.

Come out for the ultimate Grease SingA-Long at Atlantic Station’s Central Park.

Dress in your best Rydell High gear, check out the Hot Rod Car Show, corn dogs, popcorn, games, fun, prizes and much more. Bring your lawn chair to watch the movie complete with sing-a-long, hosted

by Our Song. Event kicks off an exclusive two-week engagement of the Grease Sing-A-Long at Regal Atlantic Station beginning July 8.

FLICKS ON 5th

Wednesday nights, July 7, 14 & 21, 9:00pm, Free Technology Square 86 Fifth Street, Atlanta flicksonfifth.gatech.edu 404-894-2805 Flicks on 5th continues in July with a great lineup of titles including: The Hurt Locker (July 7), Fantastic Mr. Fox (July 14) and Hot Tub Time Machine (July 21). All movies will begin at dusk (approximately 9:00 pm). 5th Street will be closed between Spring Street and Techwood Drive so guests can bring their own blankets and chairs for viewing and dining. Moviegoers can eat in or carry out dinner at any of the many restaurants located on 5th Street at Technology Square. The event is scheduled rain or shine. Please leave coolers, umbrellas, grills and pets at home. Check website for parking information.

BEER 4 BOOBS

Saturday, July 17, 8pm – 11pm $25 in advance, $30 at door Sweet Water Brewery, 195 Ottley Drive, Atlanta beer4boobs.com Join the Busted Hearts team of the Atlanta 2-Day Walk for Breast Cancer at the 3rd Annual Beer for Boobs at Sweetwater Brewery. Tastings of the “best beer in the Southeast,” brewery tours, live music, raffle items and a whole lot of fun will be on hand for this year’s festivities. All money raised stays in and around the metro Atlanta area.

PEACHTREE RUNNING AND FITNESS EXPO

Friday, July 2 (10:00am – 8:00pm), Saturday, July 3 (9:00am – 9:00pm), Free, America’s Mart 230 Spring Street NW, Building 2, West Wing atlantatrackclub.org Kick off your Fourth festivities at the 2010 Peachtree Health and Fitness Expo There will be over 100 vendors from all areas of the health and fitness industry. There will also be a Family Fun Zone featuring the Atlanta Braves Bat Team. This event will also feature running seminars, product samples, great buys on all the latest running and fitness products and gear and giveaways, including hourly drawings for the AJC Peachtree Road Race. Plus for the first time ever, AJC Peachtree Road Race participants will be able to pick up their race numbers at the Peachtree Expo.

FLYING COLORS BUTTERFLY FESTIVAL

Saturday, July 17 (9:00am – 2:00pm) Sunday, July 18 (12pm – 5pm) $8 members, $10 non-members, Kids under 2 are free Chattahoochee Nature Center 9135 Willeo Drive, Roswell chattnaturecenter.org This annual family event features live butterfly releases which will occur at 10 AM and 12:30 PM on Saturday and at 1:30 PM and 3:30 PM on Sunday. The festival will also feature Butterfly Crafts and Face Painting, Butterfly Costume Parade, Butterfly and Insect Scavenger Hunt, Butterfly Sidewalk Art, exhibits, plant sale, food, drinks and much more.

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

PG 5 � insiteatlanta.com � November 2009 PG 5 • insiteatlanta.com • July 2010

FILM

THE MAN WHO SAVED DISNEY The Story Of Pixar’s John Lasseter

BY ALEX S. MORRISON

T

HERE ARE THOUSANDS OF ACTORS IN Hollywood. There are hundreds of celebrities, stars whose personal lives are deemed interesting enough to be covered in magazines and on entertainment-centered TV shows.

There are a handful of auteurs, filmmakers whose original style and complete control give their productions a distinctive stamp. But creative visionaries who inexorably alter the way we imagine what movies can be? Those are a rare breed, coming along perhaps once in a generation.

Before Toy Story debuted on movie screens in November 1995, there was little evidence to suggest that writer/director/Pixar cofounder John Lasseter would be hailed as the second coming of Walt Disney himself. He had been unceremoniously fired from Disney’s animation studios after stepping on his superiors’ toes. And, although he’d directed two Oscar-nominated animated shorts, the then-38year-old had never before overseen a full-length film.

But now, after 15 years, 10 Pixar films (this month’s eagerly-anticipated Toy Story 3 will be the studio’s eleventh full-length feature), 24 Academy Awards, more than $5 billion at the box office and a $7.4 billion deal that made him the chief creative officer of Walt Disney Animation Studios and the principal creative advisor of Walt Disney Imagineering, Lasseter is among the most powerful and influential figures in the world of entertainment. And he did it all by single-mindedly pursuing his passion for computer animation– a craft that he practically invented (and certainly perfected), and which ultimately revived audiences’ love for animation in general and Disney in particular.

In person, Lasseter doesn’t seem like what you’d expect from a high-powered corporate executive. He favors tennis shoes and custom-designed, loose-fitting Hawaiian shirts (often bearing beloved Pixar characters) over suits. His modest office at Disney Studios boasts enough collectible toys to populate the next two Toy Story sequels. And he’s much more likely to get excited when talking about formative creative influences such as Frank Capra, Buster Keaton and Star Wars than he is when discussing multibillion dollar deals or blockbuster box office receipts.

“I was already going to Cal Arts and knew I wanted to be an animator when, in the summer of 1977, Star Wars came out,” Lasseter says, with the giddiness of a geeky fanboy. “I saw it on opening weekend at the Chinese Theater in Hollywood, and I was just shaking with excitement by the end of it. This huge crowd of people were all on the edge of their seats, and it entertained them to a level I had never seen before. I thought, ‘This is what I want to do!’”

Taught by three of Disney’s famed “Nine Old Men”—the core animators responsible for classic films ranging from 1937’s Snow White & the Seven Dwarfs to 1977’s The Rescuers—Lasseter’s education at the California Institute of the Arts found him learning alongside a future Who’s Who in the world of family films, including John Musker (Aladdin, The Little Mermaid), Henry Selick (The Nightmare Before Christmas, Coraline) and Tim Burton (Frankenweenie, Corpse Bride).

It also earned him a job at Walt Disney Feature Animation, which was a dream come true for the lifelong Mouse House fan.

“I do what I do because of Walt Disney, and the way his films entertained me as a kid. All I’ve ever wanted to do is create animation,” Lasseter says. “I grew up a half an hour away from Disneyland and worked as a ride operator on the Jungle Cruise. Disney is just one of those things that I’ve always loved and have always been a part of.”

Unfortunately, the company’s animation division was at an alltime creative low by the time Lasseter made his way into their hallowed halls. The original generation of lead animators had either retired or passed away, and Lasseter felt that developing projects such as The Fox & The Hound were “just the same old thing.” Determined to shake things up and take the art of animation to the next level, he recalls having a eureka moment when he got a glimpse of the light cycle sequence from a forthcoming Disney film called Tron, which was created using the nascent technology of computer animation.

“It totally blew me away,” he says. “It was like a little door in my mind opened up. I said, ‘This is it! This is the future!’ It was exciting, but at the time Disney was only interested in computers if they could make what they were doing cheaper and faster. They just weren’t interested.”

Lasseter’s passion for using computers to craft animated backgrounds put him at odds with studio management, and he was ultimately terminated during the production of The Brave Little Toaster, Disney’s 1987 film about a group of abandoned appliances who decide to seek out their 8-year-old “master.” But the seemingly devastating career setback did nothing to dampen his enthusiasm for computer animation, and he was soon working in the Computer Graphics department at Lucasfilm. It was there, at Star Wars director PG 6 • insiteatlanta.com • July 2010

I DO WHAT I DO BECAUSE OF WALT DISNEY, AND THE WAY HIS FILMS ENTERTAINED ME AS A KID. ALL I’VE EVER WANTED TO DO IS CREATE ANIMATION.

George Lucas’ company, that the budding filmmaker developed his first computer-animated short, The Adventures of André & Wally B. When Lucasfilm Computer Graphics was bought by Apple impresario Steve Jobs in 1986, it was renamed Pixar, with Lasseter overseeing the company’s computer animation projects.

Pixar began making a name for itself quickly, earning a Best Animated Short Film Oscar nomination for 1986’s Luxo Jr., then winning the award for 1988’s Tin Toy. But it took another seven years of technological advancements before the studio unleashed Toy Story, the world’s first computer-animated feature film. Rooted in Lasseter’s lifelong love of toys (he still has his childhood Hot Wheels collection), the movie emphasized character development over whiz-bang visual effects. Pixar’s technological advancements inexorably altered the way animators made films, but Lasseter insists it’s the studio’s focus on old-fashioned, family-friendly storytelling that has made their movies such a hit with critics and audiences alike.

“Because animation is so expensive,” he explains, “we use storyboards to create a version of the movie called the story reel. We will work and re-work, and re-work, and re-work the story reel until it’s right. One of my jobs is to green-light a story reel into production, and I never let it go until everything is working great—the humor, the heart… To me, our dedication to making the story work before we make the movie is the secret of our success.”

Grossing more than $350 million and setting new standards in animation and computer-generated imagery, Toy Story was the first film in a three-picture deal between Pixar and Lasseter’s old employers at Disney, in which the former handled creation and production and the latter handled marketing and distribution. While the Lasseterdirected A Bug’s Life and Toy Story 2 went on to make a combined $844 million (not to mention millions more in merchandising), Disney’s animation arm continued to flounder, with The Emperor’s New Groove, Atlantis: The Lost Empire, Treasure Planet, Brother Bear and Home On The Range all failing to crack the $100 million

mark domestically.

In the box office battle between Disney’s old school aesthetic and Pixar’s new school inventiveness, the student was quickly emerging as the master. By 2004 the seemingly synergistic relationship between the companies had broken down completely over profit distribution and story and sequel rights, with Jobs publicly declaring that Pixar was actively seeking other partners.

Finally, in 2006, Disney announced a deal that Time Magazine described as paying $7.4 billion for the contents of John Lasseter’s head.

His new role at Disney allowed him unparalleled control over the flagging studio’s creative decisions, while at the same time protecting Pixar as a separate entity with its own policies (including a notorious lack of employee contracts).

“Our company caught lightning in a bottle,” Lasseter says, “and we didn’t want it to get swallowed up or assimilated. But what’s nice is that Disney is great at marketing, distribution, merchandising and theme parks, which benefits us on an international level. We’re making Disney Animation a director-driven studio like Pixar, but we’re not trying to turn Disney into Pixar.”

Lasseter has already made a huge impact on Disney’s reputation, completely retooling the critically acclaimed Bolt, strengthening the studio’s relationship with legendary Japanese anime guru Hayao Miyazaki (Spirited Away, Ponyo), and reuniting the creative team behind hits like The Little Mermaid to create last year’s Oscar-nominated The Princess & The Frog. If you ask his old Cal Arts classmate John Musker, who directed the musical adaptation of The Frog Prince, Lasseter is doing more than anyone to keep his beloved craft moving forward.

“It’s ironic that John, who pioneered digital animation and has done such incredible things with it, is actually the biggest fan of handdrawn animation you’ll ever meet. He knows all those classic films inside and out,” Musker says, “and I think he was the only one with the clout to get this kind of movie going again. There’s something very magical and beautiful about it, and it’s because of John that Disney is back in that business.”

Like Walt Disney before him, Lasseter’s innovations continue to resonate and revolutionize the filmmaking business. And when Woody and Buzz Lightyear—the characters that made him famous—return to the big screen in Toy Story 3, it will be a warm reminder of childhood dreams fulfilled. At the age of 53, Lasseter remains a boy at heart, delighted to see his love of cartoons spreading throughout the world.

“The animation world is in one of the best places it has ever been,” he says. “Look at all the quality filmmakers that are doing animated films now: Blue Sky (Ice Age) with Chris Wedge; Dreamworks (Shrek, How To Train Your Dragon) is getting better and better; Fox and Sony are producing some great movies; Miyazaki-san in Japan…

There are so many great artists out there, and the goal is to make great movies, you know? I’d much rather be part of a healthy industry than being the only player in a dead industry.”

With nearly a dozen computer-animated films among the Top 50 blockbusters of all time, and with hand-drawn animation experiencing a remarkable renaissance, you could argue that the industry on the whole has never been healthier. And with the visionary John Lasseter steering the ship at Disney and Pixar, it’s safe to say that animation’s bright future couldn’t possibly be in better hands.

Under The Lights New Theatrical Performances PHANTOM OF THE OPERA I DREAM Thru July 18 Fox Theatre Ticketmaster 800.982.2787

www.broadwayacrossamerica.com

photo by Joan Marcus

PHANTOM OF THE OPERA, the most successful and longest continuously-running tour in U.S. history comes to Atlanta for a farewell engagement at the end of the month.

Based on the classic novel Le Fantôme de l'Opéra by Gaston Leroux, Phantom tells the story of a masked figure who lurks beneath the catacombs of a Paris Opera House, exercising a reign of terror over all who inhabit it.

He falls madly in love with an innocent young soprano, Christine, and devotes himself to creating a new star by nurturing her extraordinary talents and by employing all of the devious methods at his command. Winner of seven Tony Awards including Best Musical.

SHAKIN’ THE MESS OUTTA MISERY

July 2 - Aug 22 Horizon Theatre Box Office 404.584.7450

July 9 - July 31 Alliance Stage Box Office 404.733.5000 www.woodruffcentertickets.org

I DREAM is a musical celebration that tells the story of the late Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. through a rythm and blues opera. It takes the audience on a journey through the life and work of a man whose prophetic and historical significance have become legend. The play is directed by acclaimed actress Jasmine Guy, best known for her role as Whitley Gilbert in the 1990's hit series A Different World. “With a glorious score set to such a moving American story, this is an exciting and emotional experience,” says Guy. “The fact that we are premiering in my hometown is both momentous and fitting.”

RENT - SCHOOL EDITION

July 27 - Aug 1 Center Theatre Box Office 678.812.4002 www.centertheatreatlanta.org

www.horizontheatre.com

Horizon Theatre

In the revival of Horizon's original premiere SHAKIN’ THE MESS OUTTA MISERY, southern women celebrate rites of passage and healing through stories that are funny, sad and magical. Shakin’ is a joyous celebration of the coming of age of a young girl and the eight loving Big Mamas who raised her.

As this circle of diverse Southern women prepare their daughter for her rite of passage into womanhood, they share stories of survival and healing. Shakin’ is written by Atlanta playwright Shay Youngblood. The cast includes members from the original 1988 production including Marguerite Hannah and Amber Iman.

ETHIOPIAN CUISINE Queen of Sheba

1594 Woodcliff Dr. NE Atlanta, GA 30329 404.321.1493 qsheba.com Mon-Fri 11am-2pm

The ongoing World Cup has helped create awareness of the different cultures from a variety of countries around the world. Those living in Atlanta may be surprised to find that there are so many restaurants offering authentic cuisines from far away countries.

Queen of Sheba, tucked in a shopping center on the corner of N. Druid Hills and Briarcliff Rd., offers the full experience of Ethiopian dining. When you walk in to the restaurant your eyes are drawn to the culture specific

RENT- SCHOOL EDITION, an adaptation of Jonathan Larson's Pulitzer-prize winning Broadway musical RENT, based loosely on Puccini's opera La Bohème. The stage production is brought to life in Center Theatre located at the MJCCA on Tilly Mill Road in Dunwoody. RENT - School Edition follows a year in the lives of a group of impoverished young artists and musicians living the disappearing Bohemian lifestyle in New York's East Village, living under the shadow of AIDS, with both its physical and emotional complications. RENT - School Edition is about a community of people, each with their own quirks and problems, finding a way to live together. They are individuals who support each other’s differences while striving to become successful members of society by doing something they believe in. decor and all the Ethiopian art on the walls.

The menu is strictly Ethiopian. Dishes are characterized by the variety of spices and herbs from which they get their exotic taste and smell. The menu offers both hot and spicy options as well as mild. The vegetable dishes are made from lentils, peas, greens and others seasoned with mild herbs.

Entrees are served on top of Enjera which is a spong like bread. It is flat and round and is to be eaten using your hands while grabbing the food from the plate. Most entrees come in options of beef, poulty, lamb or vegetarian.

The Ethiopian cuisine lends itself well for sharing as dishes are served as samplings among meat, vegetables and dipping purees.

For groups of five or more there are specially priced combination platters that allow patrons to enjoy a wide variety of offerings.

These include Goden Tibs (riblets), Assa Tibs (salmon), Doara Tibs (spiced chicken) and Bozena Shiro (yellow split peas and cubed prime rib). Queen of Sheeba offers a lunch buffet for just $6.99 weekdays. They have full bar and live jazz is played every Thursday evening.

PG 7 • insiteatlanta.com • July 2010

Guide to Little 5!

Explore Atlanta’s most eclectic Neighborhood this Summer styles and one-of-a-kind wears. Rag-O-Rama buys daily, without appointments, during all hours of operation and offers cash and store credit on the spot for modern and vintage

Junkman’s Daughter 464 Moreland Ave 404.577.3188 Mon-Thu 11-7; Fri 11-8; Sat 11-9; Sun 12-7 www.thejunkmansdaughter.com

No place better encapsulates the raw edgy pulse of Little 5 Points like the alternative super store known as Junkman's Daughter.

Now celebrating their 28h anniversary, the Junkman's Daughter's floor has grown to a staggering 10,000 square feet! The store is crammed full of far-out fashions and groovy accessories for men and women, unique and unusual gifts, house wares from around the world, cool collectables, retro nick-nacks and toys. They also offer terrific hard to find, unusual books and a fully stocked tobacco shop. Junkman's Daughter was recently named one of the 25 Best Independent Stores in America by the book Retail Super Stars.

Make sure to check out Junkman's this Halloween for the most irreverent and original wigs, masks and costumes in town.

Psycho Sisters 428 Moreland Ave. 404.523.0100 www.psycho-sisters.com Sun-Wed 10-9; Thu-Sat 10-10

geous Psycho Sisters has been the #1 consignment boutique in Atlanta for more than 20 Years. "We Buy, Trade, and Sell cool current clothing from men and women, keeping our stock fun and fresh." says the 44 year old single mom owner Angie McLean." I travel and shop all over for one-of-a-kind clothing items, close outs, any items I can bring back to my customers to mix and match their wardrobe." If you need to shop for back to school, a hot date, the club, a family reunion, a movie or photo shoot, prom, any holiday, 60's hippie, 70's disco, 80's rocker, 90's gothic or any special event to attend and want to make a BIG presence, promise Psycho Sisters is a sure bet for any occasion. And don't forget, the Halloween selection at Psycho Sisters is outrageous!!

Savage Pizza

484 Moreland Ave. 404.523.0500 www.savagepizza.com

Rag-O-Rama

1111 Euclid Ave. 404.658.1988 Mon-Thu 11-8, Fri-Sat 11-9, Sun 12-7 www.ragorama.com Rag-O-Rama is a resale clothing store in the heart of Little Five Points. The Atlantalocation has been opened for 4 years now. The enormous space is filled to the brim with spectacular men's and women's fashions and accessories. They carry an ever changing inventory of new and second-hand merchandise; including name brands, designer labels, vintage

consignment shops

Friendly staff, fun funky, unusual and outra-

styles that reflect the current season. So, stop in whether it is to BUY, SELL or TRADE!

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

p a s t a s .

Savage's handtossed crusts are thrown with real hands and get enough air to make Tony Hawk jealous. 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 second location on Laredo Drive in Avondale Estates.

The Vortex Bar & Grill 438 Moreland Ave. 404.688.1828 www.thevortexbarandgrill.com

The original Vortex Bar & Grill opened in Midtown in 1992. The Little 5 Points corner location featured opened in 1996. The 20 foot high "Laughing Skull" facade on the front of the building has become an Atlanta landmark. This family owned pub is known for serving the best burgers in town and offering an excellent selection of drinks. In addition to the great food and spirits, the owner's offbeat humor and large collection of kooky decor have become hallmarks of The Vortex.

The Vortex has been honored with various awards over the years from several publications including: "Best Burger", "Best Beer Selection" and "Best Neighborhood Bar".

They have live music by Ozlo every Wednesday night at 7pm; Poker on Monday nights starting at 7PM and Trivia on Tuesdays at 10pm. Thursday is Bike Night.

During the summer months it can attract 300 bikes to their lot.

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Taste of the Month-Barbecue!

Fat Matt’s Rib Shack 1811 Piedmont Rd. 404.607.1622 www.fatmattsribshack.com

An Atlanta institution for more than 20 years, Fat Matt's keeps packing them in. On most nights you will find a line out the door of people eager to get to their famous barbecue. Fat Matt’s was most recently mentioned by George Clooney in the movie Up in the Air as where to go for barbecue in Atlanta.

Owner Matt Harper, who is actually quit slim, has perfected the art of Southern BBQ. Not limited to the North Carolina or Kentucky styles, Fat Matt's uses their own seasoning and cooking technique. These ribs are smoked to perfection and literally falling off the bone. Fat Matt's ribs have been voted Best Of Atlanta by INsite readers and other publications.

The ribs can be ordered as a whole, half slab, or on a sandwich. They also serve great barbecue chicken and pork. The signature side is their Rum Baked Beans, but they also have delicious Brunswick Stew, Roasted Peanuts, Potato Salad, and Cole Slaw. Fat Matt's serves 9 beers on tap and more in bottles.

They feature live blues seven nights a week.

Fat Back Deluxe performs every Sunday night and has a huge following. The rest of the week’s schedule is as follows: Mondays-Uncle Sugar; Tuesdays - J.T. Speed; Wednesdays Deacon Brandon Reeves; Thursdays Chickenshack. Check out their website for weekend performances as well as catering information and online purchases of such things as BBQ Sauce, T-Shirts and CD's.

Fox Bros. Bar-B-Q 1238 DeKalb Ave. 404.577.4030 www.foxbrosbbq.com

In 2001 the brothers Jonathan and Justin Fox had a party at their house where they smoked up some barbecue for friends. They served homemade sides and plenty of drink and even

had live bands. The event became a yearly tradition and grew each year with more elaborate menus and better barbeque each time.

By 2004 the Fox’s were cooking for 200 plus folks all showing up to these events. The brothers started catering and Fox Bros Bar-BQ was born. With help from the guys at Smith’s Olde Bar, they opened the Candler Park location. Since then Fox Bros. Bar-B-Q has won several dining awards including Best Barbecue by INsite Readers in 2009.

Although originally from Texas, they offer "Southern style" barbecue and all their meats are hickory smoked. Their signature Smoked Chicken Wings are in the smoker for 4 hours and dipped in their homemade wing sauce.

Another favorite is the Tomminator; tater-tots topped with Brunswick stew and melted cheese.

Fox Bros. Bar-B-Q is located on the corner of DeKalb Ave. and Elmira. They have plenty of indoor seating and offer a large outdoor patio dining area which is popular on summer nights. Fox Bros. is open for lunch and dinner 7 days a week. Fox Bros. homemade Bar-B-Q sauce is available for sale at Whole Foods.

LET US CATER YOUR NEXT EVENT! Catering Hotline 404.414.0826

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Lenox Square Grill

3393 Peachtree Rd. Lenox Square Mall 404.841.2377 www.centraarchy.com Lenox Square Grill is a full service restaurant offering breakfast, lunch and dinner. Their menu features many traditional comfort foods along with some great barbecue dishes. Their BBQ Beef Mac Skillet is a Lenox Grill favorite.

Shredded beef rib meat in smoky barbecue sauce is served in a hot iron skillet along with elbow macaroni in cheddar cheese sauce and topped with bread crumbs and served along with baked beans. Popular for lunch is the Barbecue Beef Sandwich which is made with smoky barbecued rib meat piled high on an egg bun and their Barbecue Chicken Sandwich served on a hogie roll. For dinner try their Barbecue Pork Ribs. They come as a full rack and are fall-offthe-bone tender baby backs. Or get the Giant Barbecue Beef Rib. It is slow roasted for 6 hours and basted with sweet barbecue sauce.

For those who are really hungry for some barbecue, go for their Southern Barbecue Feast.

It features fall-off-the-bone tender baby back ribs and grilled chicken breast topped with sweet barbecue sauce. At Lenox Square Grill enjoy their $2 LG Cocktails all day every day.

Offer is good on select margaritas, glasses of wine, and martinis.

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MUSIC

TIFT MERRITT’S DIRECT APPROACH The Country Songstress Shoots for the Moon on Her Latest

BY MATT CONNER

T

HE LAST TIME TIFT MERRITT found herself in the space between releases, a refuge was needed. The city of Paris became a place to be, a place to breathe. The result was 2008’s Another Country, although writing another release was hardly the goal. If anything, it was about finding some perspective amidst the machine to see if another release was even a possibility.

Now, Tift says such space isn’t nearly as essential. The songwriter’s learned a few lessons along the way -- ones she’s afraid might sound hokey, but are instead substantive lessons essential for staying the course. See You On The Moon is the latest release and it’s a fine offering worthy of inclusion in a beautiful catalog. Working with producer Tucker Martine (The Decemberists), Tift’s latest features My Morning Jacket’s Jim James and another dusty dozen tracks to cling to, lined with the lessons she’s passing on.

There’s a lot in your own press about this being ‘a direct record’ and wanting the writing process to be ‘less labored.’ How much of that is a reaction to Another Country or your own recording history?

That’s such a good question, because I think sometimes you really do react from record to record. I think you react to what you experience or what you thought went right or wrong. I will say that making a really direct record just started from something really personal -- which was when I sat down to write, I was at a place, and I am at that place, where I was just bored with any nonsense. I really wanted to be in the moment as much as possible and not doubt and not get hung up on doubt or waste time on angst. I didn’t want to waste time on anything that wasn’t essential.

I think it’s not so much a reaction to the record before or even my records. It was just where I was at the time. I just thought, ‘Well, I’m going to sit down and write this and not mess around with feelings that aren’t productive or stories that aren’t strong enough and I’m not going to make a big deal about that.’ I think once the songs were written when that was engrained in their process, the songs that came out were really direct and they were what I was hoping for. So the musical choice had to echo that.

Can you help me understand that a bit more? When you say ‘nonsense’ or the stories that weren’t strong...

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JUST BE PRESENT IN THAT MOMENT AND LET THE THINGS COME THAT NEED TO COME AND YOU WILL FIGURE IT OUT. I FEEL LIKE WHEN I REALLY DEDICATED MYSELF TO THAT, I WAS A LITTLE MORE OPEN AND SOME GOOD THINGS CAME WITHOUT STRUGGLE.

In terms of the writing process, I would say the things that wouldn’t help, those were angst and fear and doubt and the places within myself that I am just bored and tired of. I realized that those things don’t do anything. They don’t help. From a writing point of view, it’s a bit more complicated, but I would say that I just wanted to not just write flowery stuff. I wanted to write things that carry weight and drew a punch and were mental and not dancing around the surface of things.

I’ve heard so many songwriters when they speak of their craft mention that they are often so surprised by the unexpected things left lying around. Or there are songs that emerge later that weren’t so grand when they first met the artist. So I’m wondering when you edit those things out in the beginning...

Well, I think it’s an editing out of silly judgment. This is back to writing process, but it’s just so easy to do the things that I don’t know that they’re any good to anybody. You do this early on, but when you say, ‘Oh, this is no good,’ that is really no good to anybody. There’s no reason to beat the process up. Some stuff will fall away and others won’t. But just be present in that moment and let the things come that need to come and you will figure it out. I feel like when I really dedicated myself to that, I was a little more open and some good things came without struggle. It was when I gave up that silly nonsense. [Laughs] I want to jump back before Another Country. Everything I read about that time and album references your time spent in Paris and this need of yours to regroup. How true was that need? And did you find you needed another regrouping time after that album? Is that the way that you work?

Oh, yeah, that story was real. That story was not manufactured. [Laughs] Sometimes you never know since press bios are usually exaggerated to some degree.

Yeah, I know, but that’s definitely real.

[Laughs] I pretty much had my ass kicked by the road and by the music and just by life in general I think. I was really lucky that the city kind of took me in and took care of me and nursed me back. Or maybe it just

righted me. When I came back from France, I had this record that I wrote accidentally and that I believed in. Sometimes it’s easier to believe in your work than it is yourself.

But just having those songs in my pocket, I realized I had to take care of them. That really got me going again. That got me back on the road and in the studio.

I think I learned a lot. So I didn’t need to regroup quite so much after that record. I always write, especially in the beginning, in an isolated way. I go off by myself and get real quiet and still. I did do that. But I did it for about a month twice at different times.

So I didn’t feel that I needed to majorly rework things. Hopefully I’ve learned a few things.

I think Another Country was this record with a very clear cut story to it to frame it. This record, the stories are in the music much more because it wasn’t the same situation.

You said that you learned a few things...

What did I learn? [Laughs] Yes, the question kind of asks itself.

[Laughs] I learned some things that probably sound pretty hokey. But I think first and foremost, I was really questioning whether it was worth it to be touring in the music industry and whether I was any good and left to my own devices when no one was around. So I think it really affirmed that I’m a writer and that I’m gonna make things. I’m not going to take it back anymore. One of the ways that I put it was that I don’t know that we know very many things in this life. And I think what it taught me was that it’s okay. You know a couple of things and you hang on tight to those.

You know I’m gonna ask you about that.

Yeah, I know. [Laughs] I think it’s about savoring the every day and appreciating all things large and small. To live by yourself in a big city like Paris that’s so full of beauty was really an experience. I just don’t think we know very much. Truly, truly for sure. We just don’t know. But you have these strong feelings about a few certain things and you think, ‘No, I know that one.’ You have to hold onto those and not question them.

MUSIC

Your Neighborhood Pizzeria!

THE RETURN OF LILITH Sarah McLachlan On Why She Brought Back Her Influential Festival Tour

BY ALEX S. MORRISON

A

RGUABLY THE BIGGEST NEWS of the 2010 summer tour season was the announcement that Lilith Fair would be returning after laying dormant for 11 years. Co-founded in 1996 by singersongwriter Sarah McLachlan to celebrate women in music, the seminal tour brought top-notch female artists such as Emmylou Harris, Fiona Apple, Indigo Girls and Tracy Chapman together to defy critics’ expectations, emerging as the year’s top-grossing festival tour. In its 3-year run, Lilith Fair raised over $10 million for women’s charities and helped to carve out a solid niche for female musicians around the world.

Now, Lilith Fair is back with a remarkably diverse lineup ranging from R&B/soul divas Erykah Badu and Mary J. Blige to jazz-pop singers Norah Jones and Corinne Bailey Rae, from country stars Sugarland and Loretta Lynn to rock legends Sheryl Crow and Heart.

The international tour is scheduled to hit over 30 cities in the US, Canada and the UK, seeking out undiscovered female artists along the way via the Lilith Local Talent Search.

We recently spoke with McLachlan about the tour as she put the finishing touches on her eagerly anticipated new album, her first since 2006’s Wintersong.

It’s been 11 years since the last Lilith Fair.

Why did you stop?

We always planned to do three years, and at the end we were all tired. I needed to make a new record, so I couldn’t go out again. My managers and agent, who were partners in Lilith, had full-time jobs. So at the end of three years it was like, “Let’s take a break,” because we wanted to end on a high note. A lot of other summer festivals kept going out year after year, and they lost their luster. We wanted Lilith to be special, and leave people wanting more.

What makes this the right time to bring it back?

A lot has changed for all of us, and in the music industry. It just felt like the right time to try it out again. There’s a whole wealth of great new talent out there, and we just thought, “Why not bring it back?”

What was your original mission in founding the tour?

I wanted to do some summer shows and didn’t want all the responsibility [for selling tickets] to fall on my shoulders. I thought it’d be fun to get other female artists on the bill.

We talked to promoters and they were like,

“What? No! You can’t put a bunch of women on the same bill! People won’t come!” Which, of course, I thought was asinine. As soon as someone tells me I can’t do something, I want to do it twice as bad just to prove ‘em wrong.

We did four shows in 1996 to see how it went, and everybody loved it. If you put a bunch of musicians up there playing really good music, gender doesn’t matter.

You were determined to get artists from the original tours back this year, including Emmylou Harris, Erykah Badu, Indigo Girls and Sheryl Crow. But were there any new artists you especially wanted to have on board?

I’m very excited about Mary J Blige, because I think she’s SO talented. We also got Loretta Lynn: I think she hasn’t toured nationally in 30-something years. I also love Court Yard Hounds, which is Emily Robison and Martie Maguire from Dixie Chicks. Oh boy, it’s a long list… (Laughs) Everybody wants in on it now. So as opposed to trying to find people, now we’re overwhelmed with artists. But it’s a lot trickier to get people to commit because everyone has busy schedules in the summer.

How has the position of women in music changed since that first Lilith tour?

I think it changed the industry’s perception of the power we had. It gave all of us a platform that was bigger than we could’ve had on our own. Women were getting a lot more airplay on the radio, so it helped a lot of us– myself included– to take our careers to a different level. When Lilith ended, there was this big surge of boy bands and the door slammed shut on singer-songwriters. In came the bubblegum pop. But music is cyclical, and out of that came this surge of quality male singer-songwriters, like David Gray, Ray LaMontagne, Damien Rice and Rufus Wainwright.

How you feel about the music industry changes over the past decade?

It’s progress. Downloading changed everything, but the record companies put their heads in the sand, and I think it really hurt them. They’ve got to change and grow with the times. I’m incredibly lucky because I write and sing my own songs and I play live.

Even though I sell a quarter of the records I used to sell, it’s okay because I have fans who come to my shows. I think everybody still wants to go see music. They want to hear music, and as long as that’s the case I think music will endure.

A LOT OF OTHER SUMMER FESTIVALS KEPT GOING OUT YEAR AFTER YEAR, AND THEY LOST THEIR LUSTER. WE WANTED LILITH TO BE SPECIAL, AND LEAVE PEOPLE WANTING MORE.

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MUY CALIENTÉ

Meet Ana de la Reguera, Mexico’s Hottest New Export

BY ALEX S. MORRISON

S

ALMA HAYEK DID IT WITH THE 1995 film Desperado, in which she starred opposite Antonio Banderas. Penelope Cruz did it in 2001, with a trifecta of films that included Blow (opposite Johnny Depp), Captain Corelli’s Mandolin (Nicolas Cage) and Vanilla Sky (Tom Cruise). Sofia Vergara finally did it last year, thanks to her role on the ABC sitcom Modern Family. Now, Mexico’s Ana de la Reguera is on her way to becoming the latest Latina to break through in America.

The Veracruz native began acting in Spanish telenovelas (a.k.a. soap operas) nearly 15 years ago, but it was her appearance as a nun opposite Jack Black in 2006’s Nacho Libre that first earned the lovely Latina attention in Hollywood. On the heels of her high-profile role opposite Bruce Willis and Tracy Morgan in February’s Cop Out, the 33-year-old actress recently landed a recurring gig on the USA Network’s Royal Pains.

The Cover Girl spokesperson took time out of her busy schedule shooting in Puerto Rico to chat with us about her new show, her fitness and beauty regimen, and what it takes to make it in Hollywood.

What was it like making your Hollywood debut opposite Jack Black?

It was great! It was an amazing experience because we shot in Mexico, so it was local for me. That was the best way to get into Hollywood films, and it was a breakthrough in my career. Jack was fantastic. He’s sweet and very professional… funny, funny, funny!

Do you ever get star-struck when working with an icon like Bruce Willis?

It’s always exciting. But I feel that there are great actors in Mexico and all over the world.

Every time I get to work with someone new that I admire, I’m excited in the same way. For me, it was amazing to be able to work with Bruce and Tracy [Morgan] and Kevin Smith.

You admire these people because you’ve seen them your whole life, and then the next day you’re working with them. It’s kind of bizarre.

I’ve been very lucky.

How do the challenges of being a working actress in the U.S. compare with those in Mexico?

There’s a lot of competition here. The people in New York and L.A. are so prepared, and there are a lot of Latin girls born in the U.S., so they don’t have the problem with the language that I do. It’s my second language– I learned it when I was 15– so I have to work much harder. Here you lose one job and the next day along comes one that’s even better. In Mexico, if you [fail an audition], there might not be another one for two or three months.

PG 12 • insiteatlanta.com • July 2010

What sorts of things do you like to do when you’re not working?

I love to be at home and invite people over to my house. I like to watch movies with my family and friends, or go out and have a great dinner… nothing really wild or different. I really enjoy my house because I’m never there.

I’ve been living in L.A. for 4 years, but I’ve been gone half of the time.

Does having such a busy career interfere with your ability to have a personal life?

Yes, but my family is very close. I try to invite my mom to all my shootings or premieres so I can spend time with her. I also have a boyfriend, but he lives in Miami and I live in L.A., so we travel a lot to see each other.

You’re a spokesperson for CoverGirl, and have been named one of People en Espanol’s 50 Most Beautiful People. What is your beauty regimen like?

I’ve always worked out a little– I do spin and I play tennis– but I’ve never been very consistent because of my travel schedule. In the last 2 or 3 months I’ve decided that I have to work out every day. I’ve reached 4 times a week, and I don’t give up. Sometimes I’ll go two months in a row really working hard, but then six months later I don’t do anything. So now, I’m trying to be more consistent.

Do you have to diet to maintain your sexy curves, or do they come naturally?

I’m lucky. I love food, but I’m not into big portions or desserts. To gain weight, I really have to be eating a lot and not working out.

I’m always around five pounds more or less.

When I gain a little bit, I just close my mouth!

DM STITH: IDIOT SAVANT

The Asthmatic Kitty artist learns the business side while indulging his artistic gifts

BY MATT CONNER

I

IF AN IMAGINARY LIST WERE TO take shape of the Most Respected Labels around today, Asthmatic Kitty would undoubtedly make it near the top. Such high placement would be warranted for both highprofile artists like Sufjan Stevens and My Brightest Diamond as well as newer offerings from Rafter and Fol Chen. So it’s no surprise to find how much we enjoyed DM Stith’s releases from the last year, as both Heavy Ghost and its smaller predecessor Curtain Speech delighted the senses.

Now David Stith is busy as he readies his latest release, Heavy Ghost Appendices, a mixture of previous recordings and new remixes, and preps for his first major tour through North America.

And working with tour mates Inlets, he also has a tour EP available as well. It’s a process of learning the business to which he admits he’s quite ignorant, but it’s that “idiot savant” on the musical end that keeps us wanting more.

The progression from Curtain Speech to Heavy Ghost moves a bit from dark to light, or at least it feels that way. Is that indicative of further development in that direction or where do you go after Heavy Ghost?

I think it gets a bit more accessible. There’s a regular beat, which I think helps a lot of people.

[Laughs] Curtain Speech and Heavy Ghost were written and recorded at the same time.

I originally thought it was going to be a really long record, but it was in the mixing process that I pulled five of the songs out as separate and knew I would use them first.

So whatever progression is there, I think it’s more that I had to write those dark things as part of the mixture of things I was writing.

In the end, I think I liked the brighter, more ecstatic stuff better.

So you have the pressure on those first two records, but what pressure still remains for you?

It’s the hope that you have some kind of tan-

gible success. [Laughs] I mean, I’m really proud of the things that I do and I feel really lucky to be able to spend as much time doing them as I do. But it would be nice if I could financially put a little bit more support into what I do.

[Laughs] There are financial stresses, but that’s a really small issue. I feel like I really jumped into an industry I didn’t know much about. I knew a lot about the art side of it, but I knew nothing of the touring side, the live show side, the business side, the money side. I was kind of an idiot savant, where the music side just comes easy for me. So it’s a pretty humiliating process to realize how little I know about what I’m trying to do.

Does the machine of the industry make you question the process of making art in the first place?

No, I don’t see it as a machine. I think the audience treats itself or is treated by audiencebased press as a machine. For me, the ugliest side of the whole music industry is at the small blog level. [Laughs] The ugly thing that I see is the grading scale when you’re grading a release on a scale of 1 to 100 or something, or you’re grading a single or a music video. It just puts everybody in this competitive mood, where I don’t see that used by what I would have called the machine five years ago.

My day to day work of writing songs is so intensely personal, and it has to be because that’s my experience with music. I listen with headphones. I very rarely went to shows. So it was all about my tastes and what I got out of it and what it taught me about my own self. It’s never been about a social game for me.

But very separate from that is the business.

When you put out another release, all of the other releases get more attention than if you never put anything else out. If you do publicity or interviews or think about promoting yourself as a brand, it benefits your art more holistically.

But I don’t see it tainting somehow the art that I do. I never feel I’m whoring myself out for some machine.

You’ve been on the cover of fashion magazines such as GQ and Esquire. How would you define your own sense of style?

I mainly try to focus on things that work for me and make me feel good about myself. I love skinny jeans and I’m jealous of the girls who can wear them, but they don’t look good on me. I usually stick with cute little dresses that flatter my figure while at the same time allowing me to feel relaxed and comfortable.

Congratulations on your new role on Royal Pains. What attracted you to that part?

They offered me the part, and I really liked the show a lot. I play a Cuban girl who has a brother who’s in danger because he has a blog that talks about a lot of ethical issues with the government. I think it’s very topical, especially with what’s happening in the world right now. I think everything is changing, with the Internet and new technology, and the evolution of what’s been happening in Cuba. I think that’s the most interesting part of the story, and I’m really looking forward to the challenge.

MY DAY TO DAY WORK OF WRITING SONGS IS SO INTENSELY PERSONAL, AND IT HAS TO BE BECAUSE THAT’S MY EXPERIENCE WITH MUSIC.

FILM FILM

TRUMP Movie Reviews CARD THE A-TEAM (PG-13)

★★★★✩ Release Date: June 11

In this cinematic age that inundates us with sequels and remakes galore, the notion of resurrecting something as iconic as The A-Team makes me wary.

Will they appeal to people like me who grew up on it, or will it be so watered down with the demands of today’s audiences that it won’t look anything like I remember? Short version? Well done, Mr. Carnahan (a.k.a. director Joe, of Narc and Smokin’ Aces fame).

The film follows the exploits of a group of Army misfits which draws every oddball, suicidal, insane assignment that comes up. When they retrieve stolen engraving plates for printing $100 bills, their BY B. LOVE general is killed, the plates go missing, and our heroes are stripped of rank, dishonorably discharged S ONE OF AMERICA’S MOST and sent to separate detention centers.

As businessyou would successful and high profile expect, they escape and go after the plates in an men, Donald Trump was well known attempt to clear their names.

The movie bears great long before Survivor producer Mark Burnett resemblance the in television show, but there tapped him totostar The Apprentice.

But are some notable differences. thousands there’s no denying that While the reality showof rounds of ammunition are expended, people DO get shot. turned Trump from a cartoonish curiosity The violence is more real.

There is foul language into a bona fide phenomenon, with his signa-– enough to warrant the PG-13Fired!”– rating –inextricabut not so ture catchphrase– “You’re much that it’the s distracting.

The lexicon. casting is excellent. bly entering pop culture It’Although s obvious that Sharlto Copley as Murdock The Apprentice initially floun-could have stolen the show, but he’ s balanced nicely dered a bit in the ratings, Burnett andout Trump by the rest of the cast.

Liam Neeson as Hannibal stumbled upon a winning formula by recruit-is likeable, formidable and believable. Bradley Cooper ing second- and third-tier actors, athletes, as Faceman is charming and devious and strangely models and musicians for a celebrity edition vulnerable. Quinton Johnson does a superlative job of the show. Now in its third incarnation, of filling Mr. T’s boots. The film pays homage while The Celebrity Apprentice tosses disparate being separate from the television show. Aside from stars such as rocker Bret Michaels, wrestler the characters, there are all of the things that we love: Goldberg, baseball legend The Van, the crazy plans, theDarryl banter,Strawberry, the cigar, the former governor Ron Blagojevich and Sharon trust we have that these guys will somehow succeed Osbourne a variety of teamagainst all together odds. It’s for definitely a summer popcorn building and challenges designed to film. It’sexercises fun and funny and has some magnificent test their business mettle. explosions, evoking enough of the original that even “The Donald, ” asmythegeneration crazy-coiffed realit. I love die-hard fans from will enjoy estate if often known, recently held it whenmagnate a plan comes together. court with reporters to discuss the show’s –Justin Patterson current season.

these original films. And it’s impossible to imagine any American actress better suited to embodying the excellent Lisbeth Salander character than Rapace, who deserves to become an international star.

–B. Love

The Donald Waxes Rhapsodic GROWN UPS (PG-13) On The Celebrity Apprentice, “You’re Fired!” & Fixing NBC

A

THEyou GIRLtellWHO (N/R) Can us aPLAYED little bitWITH aboutFIRE the selection process? Release Date: July 9 ★★★★✩ It’s very interesting, because so many Featured in a recent Entertainment Weekly cover story, celebrities want to be on the show after the Swedish author Stieg Larsson’s “Millennium” trilogy is success of the previous two seasons. We the hottest commodity in the world of publishing right wanted some athletes, some actors, someSo it’s now, selling over 40 million copies worldwide. models and some wrestlers, so I would say no surprise that producer Scott Rudin (No Country probably six or seven people per spot we For Old Men, The Hours) snapped up film rights and were turningDavid down.Fincher The hardest thing is thaton that director is in pre-production we really have some good people the first of three film adaptations for that Sonywant Pictures. toThere’ go on very badly.

But I guess maybe s only one problem: It’s difficult to we’ll imagine save them for the nextLarsson’ show, sbecause it looks Hollywood translating scintillating prose like that’swhat going toits happen. faithfully, with frank sexuality, graphic scenes of rape and violence, and deliberate slow-burn pacing.

How is this goinggettoyour be different Which is whyseason you should butt to yourthan local past seasons? art-house cinema and catch this Swedish indie, which Well, the when younovel haveina the success adapts second serieslike (Thewe’ve Girl With had, you don’t like to do too many changes.

The Dragon Tattoo was released in the U.S. earlier this What we do a different tone.

Thescast year, with Thehave Girl isWho Kicked The Hornet’ Nest has interesting: been Rapace very duebeen out invery October) to grippingThey’ve effect. Noomi tough and very nasty, but of there’s also a lot of once again carries the bulk the dramatic weight fun and humor with respect to what happens, with her passionate portrayal of dark, mysterious which I don’t thinkLisbeth we hadSalander, in the last computer hacker whoone. reunites With [Rivers] andBlomkvist with Piers with Joan journalist Mikael (the[Morgan], remarkably itsubtle was really nasty people hating Michael Nyqvist, whoreally comes acrosseach as the other.

These each other, it’s Swedish Liampeople Neeson)hate to investigate a sexbut trafficking also I think that might be the biggest ringfunny. involving high-ranked government officials. differentiation inisterms of of themurders three casts.

But when Lisbeth accused she did not commit, it’s up to Millennium Magazine publisher Can you usually the bat is Blomqvist to cleartell her right name.off Where the who first film going to doof well and who was more a character study,isn’t?

The Girl Who Played That’s the most interesting quesWith Firealways comes across as a slightly more mainstream thriller, butbecause Daniel Alfredson’ dynamic direction tion to me I’d like tos think of myself leaves doubt that this is aoften European indie. asnever being okayanywith people.

But I’ll say, Hollywood be able to throw budget “This one ismay going to be a star,a”bigger and then heinto adapting work,You but never it seems unlikely that turns out Larsson’ to be as dud. really know.

Rudin will be able improve upon You feeland likecompany you’ve known theseto celebrities

★★★★✩ Release Date: June 25

Chris Rock tried the whole “comedy around a casket” thing a few months back with Death at a Funeral and it proved a lifeless mess. Fortunately for him and everyone else attached to this Happy Madison production, similar results aren’t likely this time.

For starters, this story about fivefor childhood friends through reading about them so many –Rock, Adam Sandler, Kevin James, David Spade years, but a lot of times somebody that you and Rob Schneiderreuniting after 30 years for their don’t think of so highly turns out to be a star. old basketball coach’s funeral makes some sense.

You just don’t know what will happen with Plus, with all of the guys having some quirky family pressure and the heat of battle. issue– I’m still trying to figure out what’s weirder, James’ wife breast-feeding their four-year-old or What does a celebrity have to do to really Schneider French kissing a 74-year-old– there just set themselves apart and show that they’re isn’t much time to mourn the old coach when you in to win canitwaste timeit?with old lunchroom jokes. Taking the I can tell from literally, Seasons and 2 and just whole hoopsyou backstory this1 chuckle-fest from the regular Apprentice, people keeps passing around the one-liners like areally Harlem want to win. routine.

Every once a while you’ll Globetrotters Someinmight scream foul at a have a quitter, but itcomedy doesn’t happenand often. few needless physical moments farting Igags think the reason they do it is the level over the reunion weekend, but the majorityofwill intensity they feelfact forthis their charity. merely cheer at the dream team ofUnlike complete the where somebody foolsregular was ableApprentice, to make a movie the whole family can works for dunk. me for a pretty good salary for a call a slam year, with this one the money goes to char–DeMarco Williams ity. Last year we raised millions of dollars.

Everybody has a charity that they love; some JONAH HEX they’ve (PG-13) are foundations set up themselves years in advance of the Date: show. So I think ★★★★✩ Release June 18 they really fight more intense because it’s a charIt’s one of the most re-usable storylines of the ity they’re fighting for. they hurt those close to western/samurai film genre:

KNIGHT & DAY Starring: Tom Cruise, Cameron Diaz, Peter Sarsgaard, Paul Dano.

Director: James Mangold. Release Date: June 23. Rating: PG-13 ★★★✩✩

The latest in summer blockbusters is a True Lies-meets-Mission Impossible mash-up featuring big explosives, steamy romance and carefully plotted comic relief. It proves a fast and easy movie to watch, exciting at every angle and at the end of the day, die-hard entertaining. Director James Mangold (“3:10 to Yuma” and “Walk the Line”) introduces us to innocent June Havens (Cameron Diaz), an auto-restorer on a flight home for her sister’s wedding. Her simple trip is interrupted when she bumps into Roy Miller (Tom Cruise), a spy racing the clock against his pending mortality in his latest mission to save the world’s first infinite power source. With obviously more important things in the immediate future for both, a mile-high hook-up seems moot, but with some help from tequila and the promise of an undeniable thrill (not to mention some severe predictability), the two find themselves intertwined for a runaway mission across the world. It’s funny along the way, and despite how conspicuous, just plain fun to watch.

There can’t be much more to ask for from a summer special effects hit—street racing in a bridesmaid gown, sky diving onto remote islands and driving through the bull run in Spain—but don’t expect the James Bond classic or something better than Jamie and Arnold (in my opinion, also a classic). Reiterating my first thought, you’re getting your standard summerOUT blockbuster, good orPHRASE, creative as its predecessors, IT TURNED TO BEnotAasGOOD BUT IT WASsimply A for aDURING mindless night out. him and left him for dead, but he came back hungry worth seeing THE VERY FIRST SHOW I WAS A LITTLE FLUKE. What are your favorite challenges watch –Jenni Williams for vengeance.

That’ s the basic theme for to Jonah Hex, I USED EXASPERATED WITH ONE OF THE CONTESTANTS AND the celebrities tackle? but it’s a little different. Hex was so close to death that THE LINE, “YOU’RE FIRED!” WHEN [PRODUCER] MARK Well,hewe have aback, lot part of different challengwhen wasdo brought of him remained on heartstrings either. While the audience TO won’t DOemotions, matter the size, shape, es, whether we go back to the selling of the HAVE BURNETT ANDmostI inAGREED THE illustrating SHOW that WEnoDIDN’T the other side. Now he can talk to the dead, and crows be able to relate to a mother (Taraji P. Henson) and son color, or originality of your family, the issues are lemonade or doing something else very basic (who ferry souls to the afterlife) accompany and help THAT. WE THOUGHT WE’D SAY, “GET THE HELL OUT relocating to Asia for a better life, seeing a child thrust universal. With stellar performances by the lead trio, without to deal withIProctor Gamhim. The having comic book (of which was a fan)&was dark, HERE” SOMETHING. into a strange environment andOF struggling to adaptOR the film is rounded out by character development ble or and Kodak, etc. of Sometimes [sponsor-based gritty evocative countless spaghetti westerns, translates into any language. So, too, do times when that doesn’t rest entirely on the script. The result is challenges] are sort of interesting, but they’re completely unlike the Spider-Man and Batman comics ample, Scott Hamilton, from the last season. fact that you raised such self-sufficient a person is emotionally beat down and mistreated by unbelievably gripping entertainment, both endearing expensive for(anti-)hero us to do.has Theburned ratings I’d read. The thesuggest entire right I had to let Scott go. I’m a great fan of Scott: children? others only to find a way to overcome the obstacles and terrifyingly candid. that thehisfans’ part of angry the show by in He won Olympic gold medals and he’s a great side of face, favorite and is essentially vengeance theWilliams chilWell, I’m getting a lot of credit on at the end. And that’s just Chan’s Mr. Han character!

–Jenni far is theThe boardroom, the boardroom a duster. movie doesand an admirable job of getting champion. But he understood that he made dren. Everybody’s been asking about Ivanka When you actually see how Dre conquers his school has gottennature, longer the yearsfeelbecause the gritty theover supernatural and the of brief a mistake on the show and I really had no problems with kung fu, you’re overwhelmed with and the answer is yes, she’ll be back on the that.

The of challenges still haveOnplenty of time moments humor I expected. the other hand, choice. I felt very badly about that, because (R) very good kids. They went show. But they’re and fully understand how The Karate Kid MICMACS and we’re both wehate Idelight people whofocused did NOTon grow up aspects, on comicsbut might to very good schools, and they great considered himsurprise to be ahit great person, but I ★★★★★ Release Date: Maywere 28 (Limited) became the biggest of the summer. have been tryingmight to lengthen boardroom it. Western-lovers hate the the supernatural bent. have to do what’s right. It’s never fun, but it’s students. I couldn’t wait to get them on the –DeMarco Williams Following a group of junkyard dealers-turnedbecause of strong viewer requests.

People who like summer popcorn movies will find easier when I don’t like somebody or when show. I had no idea the show would be into underestimated soldiers, Micmacs makes a that the filmmakers didn’t pander to them at all. In they’re really, really bad. itsninth and tenth season, which is pretty stellar story out of scrap metal and weapons of You’re likefilm a prosecuting attorney ineveryone. the short, the will probably not appeal to THE KIDS ARE ALL RIGHT (R) amazing in the world of television. mass destruction, all for the greater good of, you boardroom.

Do you meter your approach to Josh Brolin turns in a spot-on performance as Hex, That line, “You’re fired, ” became ★★★★★ Release Date: July a9 pop cul- guessed it, world peace. It starts with Bazil, a video different personalities? the wrathful man who is still hurting on the inside, ture phenomenon. Can you talk about the There’s of news NBC A beautiful story and superb acting, The Kids Are store clerkbeen withlots a lethal bulletsurrounding in his brain and an Yes, John I think you deal with different people while Malkovich’ s villain is… well, like every origin lately, and your show does well for them. of it?

All Right is a success both in front of and behind the unyielding vengeance for his father’ s death.

Out on differently.

I dealvillain, with creepy Goldberg John Malkovich and differently weird. As for What youwith think NBCtoneeds to meets do to Slammer, get back It turned out Lisa to be a good phrase, butanother it camera.

Director Cholodenko brings us the streets nowhere turn, he than I deal Governor Blagojevich.

Megan Fox aswith the damsel in distress?

She feelsI like a was in the ratings game? a fluke.

During the very first show I was lesson from the eclectic side (she also directed an a junkyard veteran who brings him into a misfit dealt with Dennis Joan Rivers supernumerary, and Rodman seeing her and in a corset just made alifelittle Well,ofI carnival-worthy onefeature-length of the con-Laurel family know Jeff Gaspin (Chairmanincluding of NBC episode exasperated of The L Wordwith and the personalities, differently thanher some of the other me want to buy a burger.

Still, it’s acontesgood movie, testants and I Universal Television used the line, “You’re fired!”

Entertainment) and, Canyon), shedding labels, politics and judgment, a human calculator, a record-breaking daredevil,asa and anyone to that step outside tants.

You who’ haves willing to have ability.the cinematic When [producer] Mark you know, he’s to the role.

I think andofI life. agreed he’s in and simply illustrating theBurnett hard facts We contortionist (just new to name a few).

They join Bazil box should be able to appreciate it. to do Jules the show we (Julianne didn’t have that.and WeAnnette bringing going todown do aanspectacular job at responsible NBC. Theyfor meet and Nic Moore arms manufacturer Patterson How do you feel going back in the–Justin boardthought we’d say, “Getteenage the hell out ofwho here” or both needhis more like mortality The Apprentice.

Not s Bening), moms to two children, they ownshows precarious and his father’ room after a little hiatus? something.

And all of a sudden America went necessarily from a reality standpoint, but gave birth to with the help of an anonymous sperm bad luck. Returning from a 5-year break, writer/ I just get a great kick out of it. I really like crazy show.

It happens they need shows Jeunet that capture imaginabe a greatin director THE KARATE KID (PG) donor. over Raisedthe with the utmost sense to of normalcy Jean-Pierre adds yetthe another creative it a lot. They want to renew it for another tion. catchphrase.

TV Guide or one of the major their new wave home, it’ s only a matter of time until and intriguing story to a resume that already includes ★★★★✩ Release Date: June 11 two or three seasons, and we’re thinking Frankly, entertainment didpicket a poll and, after Amelie, certain that are should teenage hormonesmagazines creep into the fence picture.

A Very Long shows Engagement, andon City of Lost about that. likethehaving a little bittank of abubbling break Can’t you justI see Hollywood think “Here’s Johnny!” and one other great, it was be changed because, while they get some Joni (Alice in Wonderland’ s Mia Wasikowska) and Children.

Stunningly creative, it’ s the Frenchman’ s between wherecould it goes on reboot once astarring year. #3 on the Top 100 phrases in television hisover? Howshows, in the world an ‘80s pretty of good reviews, they don’t get people her younger brother Laser (Josh Hutcherson) decide version Oceans 11, granting incredible suspense a relatively unknown 11-year-old (Jaden Smith, tory! So that was a pretty big honor. It’s been watching. It’s nice to get both. We’ve had to meet their mystery father, both fascinated and amidst perfectly executed subtle humor. This quirky, Do you ever about someone, a.k.a.

Will andfeel Jada’bad s son) and afiring relatively washed- an amazing thing and an amazing phrase that Emmy nominations and a lot of good acliberated by the idea of a super cool paternal figure. light hearted crime-comedy sends you down a roller or it just part of the upisJackie Chan make overjob? $115 in two weeks at the just seems to work. It really caught on, and coladesofpassed and that’s always up Mark Ruffalo plays this chilled-out playboy, Paul, who coaster action, our fromway, bendable girls popping I always No, A-Team, not always. box office–feel morebad… than The JonahSomeHex and it’s been an amazing thing to watch. nice.

But ultimately you have to have people not only lives up to the kids’ “coolness” expectations, in refrigerators, to human cannons flying across times don’t likeIt’people.

Thehow hard are Splice Icombined? s amazing far ones an easy-towatch. is going really doinwell.

I know but also befriends his parental partners, making the ocean,NBC to the simple to discoveries a world less when like and respect follow you storyreally and some decent actingsomebody can take you. What do you think is your biggest accomtheir leadership think winners, for a hilariously awkward story of family growing complicated than ourand realI one.

So they’re visually stimulating and make a mistake. an ex- at the plishment, your business success or the Andthey let’s not shortchange the Like, poweras of tugging so Iitthink they’ll around. pains. The Kids are All Right offers a tornado of that could easily beturn a silentit film, Micmacs celebrates PG 13 • insiteatlanta.com • July 2010

VIDIOTS

UPCOMING DVD RELEASES AND REVIEWS

BY B. LOVE & JOHN B. MOORE AMERICAN PICKERS: THE COMPLETE SEASON 1 – Mike Wolfe, who owns an antique store in Iowa, and business partner Frank Fritz travel the nation looking for collectible objects from rusting motorcycle frames to old movie posters in back yards and garages. The show is surprisingly addictive, in part thanks to Wolfe’s congenial Midwest attitude, showing how they spot random objects rotting in neglect, clean them up and parlay the find into some serious cash.

AVATAR: THE LAST AIRBENDER: THE COMPLETE 1 – Not to be confused with James Cameron’s megablockbuster, this animated series garnered a loyal global fan base and critical praise. The story follows a civilization divided into four groups– Water Tribes, the Earth Kingdom, Air Nomads, and the Fire Nation– each with its own element-based society. With martial arts, strong characters and multi-generational appeal, the show is an instant animated classic.

COLLAPSE – Like a modern-day Chicken Little, LAPD detective-turned-investigative reporter Michael Ruppert accurately predicted the global economic collapse long before it happened.

Now, in this riveting documentary from Chris Smith (American Movie, The Yes Men), he underlines the connection between peak oil, real estate, credit bubbles and U.S. government malfeasance, suggesting greater catastrophe looms imminent. An absolute must-see!

ENTOURAGE: THE COMPLETE SIXTH SEASON – This longrunning buddy comedy caught some flak last year from Seth Rogan for… well, slamming Seth Rogan.

The Knocked Up joke was more than a bit stale by the time this season aired, but, occasional dated references aside, the series is still remarkably satisfying. Entourage may lack the heat of a buzzheavy show like True Blood, but the colorful characters remain worth tuning in for week after week.

IT CAME FROM KUCHAR – Chances are you’ve never heard of underground filmmaking twins George and Mike Kuchar, but this documentary shines

light on the bizarre brothers as the missing link connecting Ed Wood, Russ Meyer and John Waters. Their no-budget creations are hardly what you’d call high art, but their unbridled passion for filmmaking should make them an inspiration for anyone who’s ever wanted to pick up a camera and tell a story.

MARY & MAX – This animated indie shined at the Toronto Film Fest, but failed to gained traction in theaters. Too bad: The quirky story, which follows a life-long pen pal correspondence between a lonely Australian girl (voiced by Toni Colette) and a sad sack New Yorker (Phillip Seymour Hoffman), has genuine heart and soul. Add endearingly odd characters, twisted claymation and a unique narrative approach and you have a left-of-center winner.

RED VS. BLUE: THE BLOOD GULCH CHRONICLES – Red Dead Redemption earned major props by landing John Hillcoat to direct a short film based on actual game footage, but this popular series (based on Halo) did it first. The story follows 10 soldiers battling for a piece of godforsaken land in the middle of nowhere, mixing elements of sci-fi, action and irreverent humor in an edgy style the Village Voice aptly describes as “Clerks meets Star Wars.”

OTHER JULY DVD RELEASES JULY 6� �� ������� �� ����������� ������� �� ���� ����� ������������������������������������� JULY 13� �� ���� ������� ������� �� ������ �� ���������� �� �������� �������� �������� ������ ������� ������ �� ���� ������� �������� �� ����� ������������������������������������������� ��������������������������������������������� ������������������������������������������������ The Final Season JULY 20 – Being Human: ������� ���� �� ���� ���� �� ���������� ������ ��������� �� ������� ��� �������������������������� Most Dangerous Man in America: Daniel Ellsberg and the Pentagon Papers �� ����� ���� �� ���� ��������� �� ���� ���� �� ������ ������ ��������� �� The Wronged Man JULY 27 – The Art of the ������ �� ���� ���� ������� Hunter: Crime Is on ���� ���� �� ������ ��� ���� ������� �� �������� ������� 22: Presenting Sacha ������� �� ����� ������ �������� ���� ��������� ������� ���� �� ��������� ��������� ����� ����� �� �����������������������

GAMES PEOPLE PLAY UPCOMING VIDEO GAME RELEASES AND REVIEWS

BY B. LOVE

DRAGON BALL: ORIGINS 2 (Namco Bandai) System: DS Picking up where Origins left off, this sequel once again casts players as young hero Goku and the allies he meets along his journey in search of the seven Dragon Balls. Mixing elements of action, exploration and puzzle solving, players can use either the stylus or traditional button controls to jump and swing their way through various terrains and battle the evil Red Ribbon Army. With single-player, multiplayer and coop modes, Origins 2 is a fun-filled continuation of the Dragon Ball series.

PRINCE OF PERSIA: THE FORGOTTEN SANDS (UbiSoft)

Systems: DS, PC, PS3, Wii, X360 The Prince of Persia series earned respect with its stunningly rendered 2008 entry, Warrior Within, but PG 14 • insiteatlanta.com • July 2010

this sequel was clearly rushed to coincide with the release of the film. With bland graphics, monotonous hack ‘n’ slash gameplay, and an uninspired storyline about saving the Prince’s brother’s kingdom from a demon, Forgotten Sands may attract the movie-going masses. But in forgetting many of the elements that made Warrior Within such a refreshing reboot, the developers risk alienating their core fans.

SHREK FOREVER AFTER

Systems: DS, PC, PS3, Wii, X360 As a parent, it’s rare to find a game the whole family can enjoy, but this adaptation of the latest Shrek film is actually better than the movie on which it’s based. The story follows the film fairly closely, with Rumpelstiltskin tricking Shrek into signing a bum contract and the ogre hunting him down to retrieve it. The fun comes in playing as a group (including Fiona, Donkey and Puss in Boots), fighting bad guys, solving puzzles and laughing

new ways to use color and sound and challenges its actors to deliver serious back-to-basics performances. I laughed regularly, but not predictably, enjoyed each moment’s nuances, and loved the audacity with which Jeunet overwhelmed me in his assumptions of an imaginative audience. With his latest film, the auteur proves that embellished, even outlandish stories still have a place. It’s worth seeing on every level, accomplishing the best in comedy and mystery-suspense while making it okay once again to root for the underdog.

–Jenni Williams

PLEASE GIVE (R) ★★★★✩ Release Date: May 21 (Limited) With another film from director Nicole Holofcener (Friends With Money), you might expect the stereotypical dramedy cluttering theatres these days, with quirky characters trying to solve some sort of self-inflicted depression about their position in life. Fortunately, Please Give offers a refreshing new direction. The story, sardonic yet endearing, begins with Alex and Kate, a seemingly happy, well-to-do couple played by Oliver Platt and Catherine Keener. Together they are man and wife as true soulmates, best friends, happy and content with their only child and their little apartment in the city. What we learn is that they’ve purchased the adjacent apartment in their own building for a future expansion and remodel on the premise that they not kick the elderly neighbor out. Instead, they are simply waiting for her to die, and in the process of nursing their guilt for that, meet her two orphaned granddaughters (Amanda Peet and Rebecca Hall) who add to the films list of issues with depression, obsession and certain quirkiness. The relationship between these families is funny in its potential sincerity, allowing several personalities to illustrate that friendship, almost kinship, is universal if you allow it. I was severely entertained, as usual by anything with Keener; and in this particular instance, wholly entranced by her ability to evoke the effects of overwhelming guilt challenged by undeniable privilege. The chemistry between she and Platt is undeniable, allowing total transplantation from a theatre seat into their lives. Please Give not only initiates a reflective pause in your own routine, but also illustrates disillusionment in the “giving” hearts of many.

My advice is not to miss this eclectic story of inevitable, but sometimes questionable, human nature. It reveals the good, the bad and the unmentionable, making us love and appreciate the characters for their vulnerability and honesty. Don’t expect unicorns and rainbows, but look forward to the chance to find humor in life’s struggles.

–Jennifer S Williams

along the way. Way too easy for serious gamers, but a hit with the kids.

SOLITARY MAN (R) ★★★★★ Release Date: June 12 Michael Douglas can expect a nomination for this one. At least. That is about the most fitting preamble that I can give to Solitary Man. The film tells the story of a man (Douglas) who learned there were “irregularities” in his EKG. He never stayed to hear the results. He ran, and not just from the doctor. In his efforts to live life to the fullest and do the things he has always wanted, he cheats until his wife (Sarandon) leaves, swindles GMAC and loses his auto dealership, causes his daughter to order him not to try to contact her or his grandson again. It’s a film about a lot of things. It is about the price of greed and hedonism. It is about the strength of the bonds of blood. It is about one person being forced to examine his life and to determine what he really wants. The film contains several notable performances. Michael Douglas is excellent in both of his roles: that of the aging lion who still chases every gazelle he can spot, and that of the older man who gradually loses all that he holds dear. He manages to convey the hurt and loss, the incredulity of the man who never thought it was his fault, the realization that his life is the result of his choices. Danny DeVito plays an old friend from college, one whom Douglas never really showed interest in after leaving town. In contrast to his usual roles, DeVito is the picture of the gentle man who is satisfied with his life. He is the one who begins to force Douglas to admit that elation is impossible but that contentment is wonderful. The movie is touching and poignant and funny and horribly sad, conveying all of those things without preaching or forcing a point of view. It’s just the story of one man living with the consequences of his choices. And it might have a happy ending. Or not.

–Justin Patterson

SPLICE (R) ★★★✩✩ Release Date: June 4 With the recent announcement that real-life researchers have created the first synthetic cell, you’d think the timing for a film like this couldn’t be better. You’d be both right and wrong. Splice is the latest film from Canadan auteur Vincenzo Natali, the man behind 1997’s high-concept, low-budget thriller Cube. In Splice, two hotshot geneticists (Adrien Brody and Sarah Polley) go rogue and create an unpredictable chimera by combining human and animal DNA. What follows is more an over-the-top parable about parenthood than a cautionary tale of scientific hubris a la Frankenstein. In any event, the plot is driven forward, not by the unexpected behavior of the new creature Dren (played in its mature form by the elfin Delphine Chanéac), but by jarring character changes and inconceivably bad judgment on the part of her “parents.” Splice quickly deorbits from intriguing to unsettling, and finally to guffaw-inducing moments of “Oh-no-you-dih-unt!”

It’s transgressive art, but it stumbles awkwardly in its attempt to be memorable.

–John C. Snider Buzz or Jesse as they help their friends escape the daycare center. But the game really shines in Toy Box mode, allowing you to explore the vast, vividly rendered world that put Pixar on the map.

SUPER MARIO GALAXY 2 (Nintendo) Systems: Wii Nintendo is the Pixar of the video game world: They may not develop many titles, but nearly every one they do is awesome. Super Mario Galaxy 2 is no exception, improving on its beloved 2007 predecessor without losing the elements fans loved in the original.

Once again Mario explores outer space while tackling over-the-top challenges, with new power-ups that allow him to smash through barriers and drill through planets, or join with dino-pal Yoshi for even crazier gravity-defying adventures.

TRANSFORMERS: WAR FOR CYBERTRON (Activision) Systems: DS, PC, PS3, Wii, X360 I’ve never understood the appeal of Transformers, but who am I to argue with decades of success? The series’ latest title allows gamers to experience the war between the Autobots and Decepticons on their native planet before their exodus to Earth. The 3rd-person shooter allows you to play as your favorite characters in two intertwined campaigns, battling solo, in team-based online co-op or head-to-head in multiplayer mode. I still don’t get it, but it’s more fun than anything Michael Bay’s done with the franchise.

TOY STORY 3: THE VIDEO GAME (Disney Interactive)

OTHER JULY RELEASES

Systems: DS, PC, PSP, PS3, Wii, X360 Pixar CEO John Lasseter helped rejuvenate Disney’s flagging animation division when he was put in charge a few years back. Now, the company is revamping its gaming division after years of outsourcing, and Toy Story 3 reflects their improved quality control. The story mode is fairly rote, allowing you to play as Woody,

Tiger Woods PGA Tour 11 (PC/PS3/Wii/X360, 7/1) ������������������������(Wii, 7/6)����������������� Pikachu’s Adventure (Wii, 7/9�� �� ������� ������ ���� Sentinels of the Starry Skies (DS, 7/11)����������������� Apprentice (DS, 7/13)� �� ������� ������� ������ ������� Baseball 2010 (PS3/X360, TBD)�������������������� (PS3/X360, TBD)

EVENTS

4TH OF JULY CELEBRATIONS

BY MARCI MILLER ASO’S ALL-AMERICAN CELEBRATION

The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra kicks off Independence Day weekend with musical fun and entertainment at the Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre at Encore Park in Alpharetta. Festivities will begin Thursday, July 1, 2010 at 8:00 p.m. The Orchestra, led by conductor Bridget-Michaele Reischl, will perform patriotic sing-alongs with the U.S. Army Field Band Chorus, Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture, and feature post-concert fireworks. The ASO continues the holiday celebration with their summer concert series featuring Earth, Wind & Fire on Friday, July 2, 2010, at 8:00 p.m.

Closing out the weekend of music will be Phish, who will play two concerts at the Amphitheatre on Saturday and Sunday, July 3–4, 2010, at 7:30 p.m. Tickets for any of the ASO’s music series can be purchased at the Woodruff Arts Center Box Office, tickets range from $27-$59.

You can visit www.atlantasymphony.org or Ticketmaster.com for more information.

4TH OF JULY AT LENOX SQUARE

Put on your red, white and blue, and head to Lenox Square for the largest fireworks show in the Southeast. Activities for the whole family include the Kid Zone, featuring giant slides, a rock wall, face painters, balloon artist, an obstacle course and more. Making a special guest appearance, legendary singer Martha Reeves will be belting out her classic hit song “Dancing in the Street”.

Live musical entertainment begins at 6 p.m. on Lenox Square’s outdoor main stage with the dazzling fireworks display beginning at approximately 9:40 p.m.

WSB-TV Channel 2 will broadcast the festivities live beginning at 9 p.m.

Everyone is invited to join in Atlanta’s largest fireworks celebration.

Admission is free. www.lenoxsquare.com.

CENTENNIAL OLYMPIC PARK’S 4TH OF JULY CELEBRATION

The annual festivities in the park begin with children’s activities from noon – 4 p.m., including arts and crafts, face painting, inflatables, stilt walkers and more. Meet Celebrity Chef Sara Moulton and sample some of her delicious, family-friendly recipes. Visitors can also relax on the Great Lawn and cool off in the world famous Fountain of Rings. The free musical entertainment begins at approximately 5 p.m. with R&B covers from the 911 band. The headliner at 8 p.m. is 80’s rock band the Smithereens. The finale of the evening is the Fireworks Spectacular, a truly amazing show framed by the Downtown skyline and synchronized to a special selection of patriotic music. For more information, please visit www.centennialpark.com.

“ THE PERFECT SUMMER MOVIE ! ” Bill Zwecker, FOX-TV

FANTASTIC FOURTH CELEBRATION AT STONE MOUNTAIN PARK

Come celebrate in your red, white and blue and visit the only place in Atlanta to display fireworks three nights in a row. Atlanta’s largest Fourth of July celebration explodes ASO with thrills and excitement at Stone Mountain Park with the Fantastic Fourth Celebration. The show will begin at 9:30pm with the Lasershow Spectacular™ and finish off with an out of this world fireworks display. The Lasershow and fireworks are free. Please come early and prepare for large crowds.

Vehicle entry to the park is $10 for a one-day permit or $35 for an annual permit. For further information please call (770) 498-5690 or visit www.stonemountainpark.com.

RED, WHITE, & WHISKEY BLUE

The W Hotel in Buckhead-Atlanta invites you to begin your 4th of July celebration at Whiskey Blue. Located on the terrace of the W Hotel Buckhead, Whiskey Blue will be the ultimate hot spot for viewing Atlanta’s largest display of fireworks LENOX SQUARE from Lenox Square. Doors will open at 5pm. Patrons are welcomed to purchase tickets in advance starting at $25 and can be purchased at www.ticketalternative. com and entering the code “Whiskey Blue”. For further information and to make a reservation please call (678) 500-3190.

S DUGAN “GROWN UPS” COLUMBIA PICTURES PRESENTS IN ASSOCIATION WITH RELATI VITY MEDIA A HAPPY MADISON PRODUCTION A FILM BY DENNI MUSIC MUSIC SALMA HAYEK MARI A BELLO MAYA RUDOLPH SUPERVISION BY MICHAEL DILBECK BROOKS ARTHUR KEVIN GRADY BY RUPERT GREGSON-WILLIAMS EXECUTIVE WRITTEN PRODUCED PRODUCERS BARRY BERNARDI TIM HERLIHY ALLEN COVERT STEVE KOREN

BY ADAM SANDLER & FRED WOLF

BY ADAM SANDLER JACK GIARRAPUTO DIRECTED

BY DENNIS DUGAN CHECK LOCAL LISTINGS FOR THEATERS AND SHOWTIMES

ALPHARETTA’S 4TH OF JULY CELEBRATION

The City of Alpharetta Recreation and Parks Department welcomes you to partake in an afternoon of fun and excitement at their 4th of July Celebration at Wills Park. This family-oriented community event offers activities for people of all ages including fireworks, face painting, games, arts & crafts, and a concert of patriotic music by the Alpharetta City Band. General admission is $3 per person. Bring your hunger and enjoy a variety STONE MOUNTAIN of tasty treats. Alcohol, personal fireworks, charcoal grills, and non-permitted commercial grills are not allowed in the park.

July 4th Celebration will be held rain or shine. For further information please visit www.alpharetta.ga.us or call 678-297-6140.

MALL OF GEORGIA’S FABULOUS 4TH OF JULY CELEBRATION

Gather your friends and family and head over to the Mall of Georgia for a Fabulous Fourth of July, packed with great music, a movie and Gwinnett’s magnificent fireworks display. Festivities will be held on the lawn at The Village Amphitheater beginning at 2 p.m., with live music. The fireworks display will begin at dark. Immediately following the fireworks the movie Transformers will be shown under the stars on an enormous 42-foot screen. Guests are welcome to bring lawn chairs and blankets. For more information, visit www.mallofgeorgia.com.

PG 15 • insiteatlanta.com • July 2010

MUSIC

14th Annual

Music Issue

SUMMER LOVIN’ INsite’s Guide to the Season’s

Best Concerts, Albums & Festivals

BY ALEX S. MORRISON

S

UMMER HAS ALWAYS BEEN THE HOTTEST season for live music, with rising temperatures bringing the biggest concert tours and festivals of the year. And 2010 is no exception: Whether you’re a fan of rock, pop, country, folk, jazz, classical music, or all of the above, the next few months will provide music lovers with a sonic smorgasbord of choices. From the Women In Jazz Festival at the Kennedy Center in D.C. to the Newport Folk Festival in Newport, Rhode Island, there are numerous destination festivals spanning the Northeast corridor.

Or you can just wait for package tours such as Lilith Fair and the Vans Warped Tour to make their way to an arena near you. Either way, these forthcoming concerts are a safe bet to ensure you have a rocking summer…

DAVE MATTHEWS BAND

Dates: Through September 15 Tragedy struck Matthews and Co. in 2008 when saxophonist LeRoi Moore died after an ATV accident. But the band returned with a triumphant tribute in last year’s Big Whiskey & The Groogrux King, which earned two Grammy nods and was hailed by Rolling Stone as “their most electric album yet.” The #1 touring band of the decade returns to the road for a 3-month excursion that finds them criss-crossing the nation with supporting acts such as Ben Harper & the Relentless 7, Amos Lee and Georgia’s own Zac Brown Band, appearing at Lakewood (with Gov’t Mule) on August 27.

LILITH FAIR

Dates: Through August 16 Co-founded in 1996 by singersongwriter Sarah McLachlan to celebrate women in music, Lilith Fair brought top-notch female artists such as Emmylou Harris, Fiona Apple, Indigo Girls and Tracy Chapman together to defy critics’ expectations. Now, after an 11-year hiatus, Lilith is back with a remarkably diverse lineup ranging from R&B/soul divas Erykah Badu and Mary J. Blige to jazz-pop singers Norah Jones and Corinne Bailey Rae, from country stars PG 16 • insiteatlanta.com • July 2010

Sugarland and Loretta Lynn to rock legends Sheryl Crow and Heart. The international tour is scheduled to hit over 30 cities in the US, Canada and the UK, seeking out undiscovered female artists along the way via the Lilith Local Talent Search.

LOLLAPALOOZA

Dates: August 6-8 After beginning the decade as one of the seminal celebrations of alternative music, Lollpalooza had become something of a joke by the late ‘90s, underlining the absurdity of turning underground culture into a massmarketed mainstream commodity. Perry Farrell’s brainchild has functioned much better under its current guise as a destination festival, attracting hundreds of thousands of fans to Chicago’s scenic Grant Park every August. This year’s lineup is as impressively well-rounded as any music fan could hope for: You’ve got classic alt-rock icons such as Green Day, Social Distortion, Drive-By Truckers, The Strokes, DEVO, and the recently reunited Soundgarden. You’ve got urban acts like Cypress Hill, Erykah Badu, Raphael Saadiq and B.O.B. There are legions of hipsters, including Arcade Fire, Phoenix, Hot Chip, MGMT, Stars, The xx and The National. And of course Perry’s got his notorious DJ tent, featuring hip-hop and electronic acts like Empire of the Sun, Felix Da Housecat, Peanut Butter Wolf and Kidz In The Hall.

Still, we all know the pop-art spectacle that is Lady Gaga is TOTALLY going to steal the show.

NEWPORT FOLK FESTIVAL

Dates: July 30-August 1 Celebrating its 51st year, the granddaddy of all destination festivals simultaneously respects the history of folk music tradition while providing young’uns with the hipster acts they adore. Set in Newport’s Fort Adams State Park, the festival’s 2010 roster is arguably among its most impressive to date. Classic rockers such as Richie Havens and The Band’s Levon Helm, modern folkies such as The Swell Season (a.k.a. the duo from Once) and Brandi Carlile, soul revivalists Sharon Jones & the Dap-Kings, comedianturned-banjo virtuoso Steve Martin and the Steep Canyon Rangers, and indie-rock favorites such as The Avett Brothers, Andrew Bird, Jim James (of My Morning Jacket fame) and Blitzen Trapper will all play George Wein’s famous fest, ensuring a diverse crowd will descend on Newport this year.

RINGO STARR

Dates: Through August 7 With the success of the Beatles Rock Band videogame, the recent unveiling of his star on Hollywood’s Walk of Fame and the release of his first self-produced solo album, Y Not, Ringo is riding high head-

ing into his 70th birthday on July 7. He’ll be celebrating at Radio City Music Hall, one of over 20 dates on a tour that will find him playing a mixture of classic hits and new songs with an All-Starr band featuring classic rock icons such as Edgar Winter, Rick Derringer and Gary Wright.

SIREN MUSIC FESTIVAL

Dates: July 17 Now in its 10th year, this free New York music fest rocks historic Coney Island, annually attracting over 100,000 people. This year marks the return of two previous Siren favorites– Matt & Kim and Ted Leo & the Pharmacists– as well as an array of up ‘n’ coming indie bands that includes Surfer Blood, Cymbals Eat Guitars, Earl Greyhound and many more. If you’re headed to New York, don’t miss the after-party at Music Hall of Williamsburg, which will feature live performances by We Are Scientists and Lightspeed Champion.

ROCKSTAR MAYHEM FESTIVAL

Dates: July 7-Aug 14 Kevin Lyman’s 3-yearold festival is doing for heavy metal what his Warped Tour has done for punk-rock, replacing Ozzfest as the premiere headbangers gathering of the summer in the process. This year’s lineup balances metal legends such as Korn and Rob Zombie with current scene-leaders like Shadows Fall and Lamb of God, as well as up ‘n’ coming acts Atreyu, Norma Jean, Chimaira and more.

VANS WARPED TOUR

Dates: Through Aug 15 Now in its 15th year, this annual gathering of punk rockers and extreme sports fans has outlasted every other festival tour birthed in the ‘90s. Credit creator Kevin Lyman with adapting to the changing cultural tides and expanding the lineup’s diversity. This year’s revolving roster features more than 100 bands, including Anti Flag, Dropkick Murphys, ska stalwarts Reel Big Fish, and punk-pop crossovers AllAmerican Rejects and Motion City Soundtrack.

S

UMMER AND MUSIC GO TOGETHER LIKE COLD beer at a barbeque or kids at a pool: it’s just not summertime without the good times and good tunes to match. It’s the time to let loose, roll down the windows and crank up the radio as you head out on vacation (or maybe just to work) ‘cause a hot summer track can help beat the heat almost as well as the AC on full blast.

Songs of the summer stick with us because they don’t just soundtrack the season, they become soundtracks to our lives, markers of great times, greater friends and an aural attempt to carry the summer vibe with us through till the next year.

With upcoming releases from pop chart toppers (Katy Perry), dance music mavens (Kylie Minogue), countrified rockers (Kid Rock) and indie rock’s finest (Arcade Fire), this summer is sure to be no different. Read on for our list of the albums your ears will be loving in the hot months ahead.

JULY 6

KELIS – Flesh Tone

(will.i.am. Music Group/Interscope) Get your ice cream scoops, ‘cause the “Milkshake” lady has returned. Recently signed to Black Eyed Peas main man will.i.am’s label, the new set, entitled Flesh Tone, finds Kelis taking a step towards more electro/dance jams than the hip hop base she’s known for.

Featuring production turns by David Guetta, Free School, Boyz Noize, Burnz, DJ Ammo, Benny Benassi and, of course, will.i.am, it’s sure to be a hard record to beat for a summertime booty shake.

BRET MICHAELS – Custom Built (Poor Boy)

2010 has been a year of up and downs for Bret Michaels. In and out of the hospital for several well-publicized medical problems, the Poison frontman still managed to clinch a win as the latest Celebrity Apprentice. Still on an upswing, the rocker and reality TV star will release his 4th solo album this month. Entitled Custom Built, the set finds the rocker singing a different tune, and one with a tinge of twang. First single “Nothing to Lose” even features Hanna Montanna herself, miss Miley Cyrus, and the album also boasts a cover of Sublime’s 1997 hit, “What I Got”.

KYLIE MINOGUE – Aphrodite (Astralwerks/EMI)

With an international career spanning back to the mid-80s, Kylie Minogue takes aim at U.S. success with her 11th studio album, Aphrodite. A hot commodity around the globe for her pop and dance hits, Aphrodite marks the breast cancer survivor’s return to her dance music roots. Produced by Stuart Price (Madonna, The Killers), the album also includes songs written by Minogue, Price, Calvin Harris, Jake Shears (of Scissor Sisters), Nerina Pallor and Keane’s Tim Rice-Oxley.

After naming her first two albums after her father (Arular) and mother (Kala), respectively, it’s only fitting that her third would be named for herself. Released via her own N.E.E.T. label, /\/\/\Y/\ (pronounced Maya, the name M.I.A. goes by off-stage) features production by Blaqstarr, Switch and Diplo and finds M.I.A. post-breakthrough and post-new motherhood. One of hip hop’s most explosive and smartly confrontational women, Maya may not be exactly the M.I.A. we’re used to, but there’s plenty we’ll recognize from the politically minded tour de force.

SCHOOL OF SEVEN BELLS –Disconnect from Desire

(Vagrant/Ghostly International)

In 2008, School of Seven Bells’ debut album Alpinisms garnered praise for the group’s brand of experimental dream pop, one that is only accentuated by the ethereal vocals provided by identical twins Alejandra and Claudia Deheza.

Rounding out the trio is Benjamin Curtis (formerly of Secret Machines) who also produces the band’s sophomore effort, Disconnect from Desire. Recorded at the band’s home studio, the album was mixed

by Jack Joseph Puig, and should give indie rock fans a reason to smile this summer, too.

JULY 20

SHERYL CROW – 100 Miles From Memphis (A&M/Interscope)

For her 7th studio album, Sheryl Crow worked closely with producers Doyle Bramhall II and Justin Stanley, writing lyrics written only after the trio had completed the music. Other assists on Memphis include Keith Richards, who plays guitar on “Eye to Eye” and Justin Timberlake, who contributes vocals to a cover of Terence Trent D’Arby’s “Sign Your Name.” A nod to Michael Jackson, the man who started Crow’s career with a backup singing stint in 1988, the album closes with Crow’s rendition of the Jackson 5 tune “I Want You Back”.

horse Present: Dark Night of the Soul (Capitol)

Following the death earlier this year of Sparklehorse’s Mark Linkous, his collaborative audio/visual project with Danger Mouse will see light of day after a year in dry dock. Helmed

by Danger Mouse and containing companion visuals by filmmaker David Lynch, the album also features guest spots by Iggy Pop, The Flaming Lips, Super Furry Animals frontman Gruff Rhys, Grandaddy singer Jason Lytle, The Strokes’ Julian Casablancas, The Pixies’ Black Francis, The Cardigans’ frontwoman Nina Persson, Suzanne Vega, Vic Chesnutt and Danger Mouse’s Broken Bells collaborator James Mercer.

M.I.A. – /\/\/\Y/\

(N.E.E.T./Interscope)

14th Annual

Music Issue

American Hi-Fi have worked the Cheap Trick-esque flavor of that single through to their new, fourth album, Fight the Frequency. Visually a throwback to the album cover of the band’s debut (both feature a similar image of a cassette tape), it marks the band’s first release for their own label, Hi-Fi Killers. Singer/guitarist Stacy Jones, who served as drummer in the 90s for both Letters to Cleo and Veruca Salt, also produces.

RAY LAMONTAGNE & THE PARIAH DOGS God Willin’ & The Creek Don’t Rise (RCA)

For the follow-up to his acclaimed third album, Gossip in the Grain, Lamontagne retreated to his recently restored historic home in the western Massachusetts woods where he teamed up with his new band, The Pariah Dogs--Jay Bellarose (drums), Jennifer Condos (bass), Patrick Warren (keyboard), Eric Heywood (guitar) and Greg Leisz (pedal steel guitar)-- a group of musicians who individually have played live with Beck, Tom Waits, Lucinda Williams and Ryan Adams amongst others. With Lamontagne taking on self-production duties for the first time, the set was recorded over a two-week span and was meant to capture the feel of a live studio recording.

AUGUST 24

JULY 27

MICHAEL FRANTI & SPEARHEAD

SKY SAILING –An Airplane Car-

– The Sound of Sunshine (Capitol/Boo Boo Wax)

ried Me to Bed (Universal Republic)

Before Owl City, Adam Young was Sky Sailing. As things began taking off with his second persona, his earlier songs receded to the backburner as the one-man band wandered into pop stardom. Finding himself with some time between Owl City records, Young took the time to revisit these tunes, originally recorded in the summer of 2007, which take a mellower approach to the style of his established hits, favoring an acoustic guitar over dreamy bloops and blips.

JULY 13

DANGER MOUSE & SPARKLEHORSE – Danger Mouse & Sparkle-

ALBUMS

BY NATALIE B. DAVID

AUGUST 3

ARCADE FIRE –The Suburbs

(Merge)

Following the triumphant baroque pop of their debut album Funeral, and its Bruce Springsteen indebted follow-up, Neon Bible, if two early released tracks (“The Suburbs” and “Month of May”) are any indication, The Suburbs will be Arcade Fire’s most diverse album yet. Recorded in both New York and the band’s home of Montreal, and produced by the band and Markus Dravs, the album moves between light folk and straightforward rock and roll, and promises some electronic touches. Expect awesomeness from one of indie rocks best bets.

AUGUST 17

AMERICAN HI-FI – Fight the Frequency

(Hi-Fi Killers/The Ascot Club/Megaforce/RED/Sony)

Most well known for their 2001 hit “Flavor of the Weak”,

While hospitalized last summer with a ruptured appendix, Michael Franti was sowing the seeds for what would become The Sound of Sunshine, the latest release from one of music’s most positive forces. The album again reunited Franti with producers Sly and Robbie in Jamaica, before the recording process progressed to Franti’s home in Bali, then his hometown of San Francisco, and, still unfinished, was completed using a mobile studio while on tour with John Mayer. If you can’t spend your summer at the beach, you can at least fake it with Franti.

KATY PERRY – Teenage Dream (Capitol)

Barely into the summer season, Katy Perry’s “California Gurls” (featuring Snoop Dogg) has already been tagged as the summer song to beat. Her sophomore effort seeks to repeat the summertime success of her debut, One of the Boys, and features a collection of songs produced and cowritten with Perry by a bevy of collaborators including Dr. Luke, Max Martin, Greg Wells, Weezer’s Rivers Cuomo and Rihanna collaborator Tricky Stewart. Expect more flippant, fun pop from a real-life Smurfette.

SEPTEMBER 7

KID ROCK – Born Free (Atlantic/Top Dog)

Much like on 2008’s Rock and Roll Jesus, with Born Free, Kid Rock again strives to bridge the gap between his rap roots and country leanings. Nowhere is this more evident than on “Care” a song that features both country pop singer Martina McBride, and Atlanta rapper T.I. Produced by Rick Rubin, the new disc also includes collabs with Sheryl Crow, Bob Seger, and Zac Brown.

PG 17 • insiteatlanta.com • July 2010

CONCERT C LENDER

THURSDAY JULY 1 529 Rabbit, Animal City APACHE CAFÉ Go Go Nights CENTER STAGE Dwele THE EARL Dylan Kight EDDIES ATTIC The Pierre Anckaert Sextet FAT MATT’S Chickenshack FIVE SPOT Jango Monkey MASQUERADE MIYAVI PEACHTREE TAVERN Gary Ray SMITH’S Age of Consent STAR BAR Abby GoGo VARIETY Steel Pulse VERIZON Atlanta Symphony FRIDAY JULY 2 529 Sheisse Manelli CHASTAIN Liza Minnelli w/ ASO THE EARL Dave Daniels & the PTA EDDIES ATTIC Sam Baker FAT MATT’S Frankie’s Blues Mission FIVE SPOT Red Clay Rumble THE FRED The Swingin Medallions MASQUERADE The ATL Mini Gathering SMITH’S Bonobos Convergence STAR BAR John Howie & The Rosewood Bluff VERIZON Earth, Wind & Fire WILD BILL’S Black Friday w/ Needeep SATURDAY JULY 3 529 Punk Carnival APACHE CAFÉ Zoogma THE EARL Blair Crimmins & the Hookers EDDIES ATTIC Frontier Ruckus FAT MATT’S Work In Progress FIVE SPOT i-Tegrity, The Apostles MASQUERADE MMA Fight Night SMITH’S Col. Bruce Hampton & The Quark Alliance VERIZON Phish WILD BILL’S 53 to Nowhere SUNDAY JULY 4 THE EARL Spanky & The Love Handles EDDIES ATTIC Ashley Arrison FAT MATT’S Fat Back Deluxe FIVE SPOT 4th of U Lie SMITH’S Col. Bruce Hampton & The Quark Alliance VERIZON Phish MONDAY JULY 5 529 Uberchriist EDDIES ATTIC Songwriter’s Open Mic FAT MATT’S Uncle Sugar FIVE SPOT Atlanta Funk Society SMITH’S Open Mic w/ Chris Jackson TUESDAY JULY 6 APACHE CAFÉ BFD’s Hip Hop Jam Session THE EARL Common Loon FAT MATT’S J.T. Speed FIVE SPOT Open Mic MASQUERADE The Heartless Bastards SMITH’S A Seriously Funny Show, Seriously WEDNESDAY JULY 7 529 The Piano Plays Itself APACHE CAFÉ Al SMITH’S Midtown Jam EDDIES ATTIC The Lost Dogs FAT MATT’S Deacon Brandon Reeves FIVE SPOT Overzealous MASQUERADE YahZarah PEACHTREE TAVERN Welfare Wednesdays SMITH’S James David Carter STAR BAR Lloyd’s Rocksteady Revue THURSDAY JULY 8 529 GG King APACHE CAFÉ Time 2 Shine BLIND WILLIES Daddy Mack Blues Band THE EARL Gentleman Jesse EDDIES ATTIC Seth Walker FAT MATT’S Chickenshack FIVE SPOT Hurly & Friends PEACHTREE TAVERN Eddie & The Public Speakers SMITH’S Art House Cinema VINYL Brooke Waggoner FRIDAY JULY 9 529 Coke Dares APACHE CAFÉ Malachi CHASTAIN Serj Tankian THE EARL Man or Astro-Man? EDDIES ATTIC Beth Nielson Chapman FAT MATT’S Delta Rockers FIVE SPOT School of Rock THE FRED World Classic Rockers MASQUERADE Delta Spirit PEACHTREE TAVERN Trotline SMITH’S The Allman Brothers Band Music Revival STAR BAR The Pyscho Devilles

PG 18 • insiteatlanta.com • July 2010

VARIETY Victor Wooten VINYL Battle of the Bands WILD BILL’S Bobby Compton

SATURDAY JULY 10 529 Howlies APACHE CAFÉ Atlanta’s Night in the Oasis CENTER STAGE Thou Shall Laugh 2 CHASTAIN Ringo Starr THE EARL Man or Astro-Man? EDDIES ATTIC Rebecca Loebe FAT MATT’S The Solar Bears FIVE SPOT Blue Remedy THE FRED Boz Scaggs THE LOFT Rooney MASQUERADE Z-Trip PEACHTREE TAVERN Aaron Thompson Band SMITH’S Shamora & Friends STAR BAR Hate City Nights VARIETY Edward Sharpe VINYL Sleigh Bells WILD BILL’S Almost Kings SUNDAY JULY 11 CENTER STAGE Kassav THE EARL Tag Team EDDIES ATTIC Malcolm Holcombe FAT MATT’S Fat Back Deluxe MASQUERADE Cage SMITH’S 3 for $5 Night MONDAY JULY 12 529 The Future Now EDDIES ATTIC Songwriter’s Open Mic FAT MATT’S Uncle Sugar FIVE SPOT Atlanta Funk Society SMITH’S Open Mic w/ Chris Jackson TUESDAY JULY 13 529 The Fingers APACHE CAFÉ BFD’s Hip Hop Jam Session THE EARL Maria Taylor EDDIES ATTIC Joe Pug FAT MATT’S J.T. Speed FIVE SPOT Open Mic MASQUERADE Death Angel SMITH’S A Seriously Funny Show, Seriously TABERNACLE Cool Tour 2010 WENDESDAY JULY 14 529 Ralph APACHE CAFÉ Al SMITH’S Midtown Jam THE EARL Bob Log III EDDIES ATTIC Joshua Fletcher FAT MATT’S Deacon Brandon Reeves FIVE SPOT Jazz The Ripper MASQUERADE The Dangerous Summer SMITH’S Stereo Reform STAR BAR Lloyd’s Rocksteady Revue VERIZON Scorpions THURSDAY JULY 15 AARON’S Brooks & Dunn THE EARL Can Can EDDIES ATTIC Lexi Street FAT MATT’S Chickenshack FIVE SPOT The Family Funk MASQUERADE WAKETODAY PEACHTREE TAVERN Casey Donahew SMITH’S Wirerose FRIDAY JULY 16 529 LHO APACHE CAFÉ Donnie EDDIES ATTIC Peter Case FAT MATT’S Blue Monkeys FIVE SPOT The Andy Carlson Band THE LOFT JFK of MSTRKRFT MASQUERADE Wysteria & Guests SMITH’S Kinchafoonee Cowboys STAR BAR Bigfoot, Monstro VARIETY Here Come The Mummies VERIZON Atlanta Symphony: Planet Earth VINYL Big Snow WILD BILL’S Ultra Drive SATURDAY JULY 17 529 Barreracudas AARON’S 311, The Offspring APACHE CAFÉ I Love Rap CHASTAIN Mary Chapin Carpenter THE EARL Zoroaster EDDIES ATTIC Jennifer Daniels FAT MATT’S Kerry Hill FIVE SPOT Yo Mamma’s Big Fat Booty Band MASQUERADE Nekromantix SMITH’S Connor Christian STAR BAR The Selmanaires VARIETY Girls’ Rock Camp Showcase

VERIZON Corey Smith VINYL The Drownout

SUNDAY JULY 18 EDDIES ATTIC Indigo Girls FAT MATT’S Fat Back Deluxe FIVE SPOT King Johnson Trio Reunion SMITH’S 3 for $5 Night MONDAY JULY 19 529 Kidstuff THE EARL Black Arm Lamar EDDIES ATTIC Indigo Girls FAT MATT’S Uncle Sugar FIVE SPOT Atlanta Funk Society MASQUERADE Between The Trees SMITH’S Open Mic w/ Chris Jackson TUESDAY JULY 20 APACHE CAFÉ BFD’s Hip Hop Jam Session FAT MATT’S J.T. Speed FIVE SPOT Open Mic SMITH’S A Seriously Funny Show, Seriously WEDNESDAY JULY 21 APACHE CAFÉ Al SMITH’S Midtown Jam THE EARL Little Tybee EDDIES ATTIC Stoll Vaughan FAT MATT’S Deacon Brandon Reeves FIVE SPOT Projector & Jimi Rays Lunchbox SMITH’S Damon Fowler VINYL The Industry THURSDAY JULY 22 529 Clandestined THE EARL Clem Snide EDDIES ATTIC Chuck Prophet FAT MATT’S Chickenshack MABLE HOUSE Smokey Robinson MASQUERADE Malevolent Creation SMITH’S Tishamingo VARIETY Joan Armatrading VINYL Winter Ransom FRIDAY JULY 23 529 Tornado Town APACHE CAFÉ Diamond D & Collective Efforts CENTER STAGE Atlanta’s Fight Night 3 THE EARL Noot D’Noot EDDIES ATTIC The Waymores FAT MATT’S J.T. Speed FIVE SPOT School of Rock MASQUERADE Sublime With Rome SMITH’S Turtle Folk VARIETY Grace Potter VERIZON Atlanta Symphony: Broadway Rocks SATURDAY JULY 24 529 London is Dead APACHE CAFÉ Blood Bath 2 CENTER STAGE Battlefest CHASTAIN Chris Isaak w/ Mark Broussard THE EARL Soulphonics & Ruby Velle EDDIES ATTIC Chatham County Line FAT MATT’S The Pocket Mafia FIVE SPOT Smokin’ Summer Southern Rock Jam THE FRED The B-52s MABLE HOUSE Big Chicken Chorus MASQUERADE Dead To The World SMITH’S Chris Knight Band VARIETY Cowboy Junkies VINYL Jar of Flies SUNDAY JULY 25 THE EARL Dan Sartain EDDIES ATTIC Will Kimbrough FAT MATT’S Fat Back Deluxe SMITH’S 3 for $5 Night VARIETY Seu Jorge & Almaz

MONDAY JULY 26 529 40 Hells AARON’S Vans Warped Tour THE EARL Drink Up Buttercup FAT MATT’S Uncle Sugar FIVE SPOT Atlanta Funk Society SMITH’S Open Mic w/ Chris Jackson TUESDAY JULY 27 529 Hello Ocho AARON’S Dave Matthews Band APACHE CAFÉ BFD’s Hip Hop Jam Session EDDIES ATTIC Newfound Road FAT MATT’S J.T. Speed FIVE SPOT Open Mic MASQUERADE Decapitated SMITH’S A Seriously Funny Show, Seriously WEDNESDAY JULY 28 529 Carnivores APACHE CAFÉ Al SMITH’S Midtown Jam CHASTAIN Devo THE EARL Holy Ghost Tent Revival EDDIES ATTIC The Coal Men FAT MATT’S Deacon Brandon Reeves MASQUERADE Our Last Night PHILIPS Rihanna w/ Ke$ha SMITH’S Please Please Rock Me THURSDAY JULY 29 529 Walk From The Gallows EDDIES ATTIC Mat Kearney FAT MATT’S Chickenshack SMITH’S Bonerama VINYL JK & The Lost Boys FRIDAY JULY 30 529 DT of Clan Destined ANDREWS UPSTAIRS Slippery When Wet APACHE CAFÉ Atlanta Comedy Festival CHASTAIN Boyz II Men & En Vogue THE EARL Ariel Pink’s Haunted Graffiti EDDIES ATTIC Mat Kearney FAT MATT’S Felix & The Cats MASQUERADE O’Brother SMITH’S Rebirth Brass Band VERIZON Steve Miller Band VINYL Ballyhoo!

SATURDAY JULY 31 529 JEFF the Brotherhood APACHE CAFÉ Atlanta Comedy Festival CHASTAIN ASO w/ The Music of Queen THE EARL Batusis EDDIES ATTIC Joe Gransden FAT MATT’S Big Clarence & The Ringers FIVE SPOT I.O.Z. w/ Yonrico Scott MABLE HOUSE Hot Fun in the Summertime Series MASQUERADE Dubascension II: Flying High SMITH’S Rebirth Brass Band VARIETY La Roux

Dave Matthews Band AARON’S AMPHITHEATRE JULY 27

Road Warriors

This Month’s Hottest Shows

BY SACHA DZUBA

JULY 09 – SHE & HIM

Atlanta Botanical Garden Zooey Deschanel and Matt Ward are a perfectly complementary musical pair playing indie folk with a mild country tinge. Deschanel and Ward met on a film and performed a duet which was played over the end credits. Ward discovered that Deschanel had many home demos of songs she had written and they decided to create and release an album. Volume One, their collaborative first effort, was voted #1 album of 2008 by Paste Magazine. She & Him recently released their second album, Volume Two. This is a great chance to see an intimate performance of some brilliant music in the lush setting of Atlanta’s Botanical Garden. Don’t miss it!

JULY 09 &10 – MAN OR ASTRO-MAN?

The Earl (10th Anniversary) One of my fondest memories from ’96 is getting to see Man or Astro-Man? at the old Cotton Club for Halloween. This fantastic space/ surf rock band with a punk rock vibe always has incredible live performances with lots of hi-tech eye candy. They do a great cover of the Mystery Science Theater 3000 theme song, though most of their songs are instrumental, per surf rock standards. They

have been on an extended hiatus since 2001 and though there have been a very select few performances since 2006, this seems to be the first indications that the Astromen are back in full force. Two nights to look out for burning televisions and space helmets, Theremins, and Tesla Coils! High-Voltage Excitement!

JULY 17 – THE OFFSPRING AND 311

Aaron’s Amphitheatre at Lakewood The Offspring (along with Rancid and Greenday) are one of only three popular American punk bands I can think of that have managed to capture and maintain interest in the punk rock scene from the 90’s on into our current era. Initially known for hits “Come Out and Play” and “Self Esteem”, The Offspring have a great sense for pop-melodies and clever lyrics. Yes, they’re catchy…but they’re still punk. They’re touring with 311, another fantastic band that had their peak in the 90’s.

They still rock though, as their most recent album Uplifter hit the Billboard at #3. They’re a great alternative rock, reggae band with a funky edge.

JULY 23 - SUBLIME WITH ROME, MATISYAHU

Masquerade Sublime was an American reggae fusion band blending styles of hip hop, surf rock, punk, and reggae. Sadly, frontman Bradley Nowell didn’t get to see the commercial success that they reached with their third album, as he passed

away from a heroin overdose two months prior to its’ release. For over a decade, Sublime was no more. In 2009, they reformed for a one-off reunion with singer/songwriter Rome Ramirez.

This show reinvigorated the band and now they return with new recordings as Sublime with Rome. “Santeria”, “Wrong Way”, and “What I Got” will be welcome classic live cuts.

Matisyahu, the Hasidic Jewish reggae musician shares the stage. Listen for the uplifting “King Without a Crown”.

JULY 24 – THE B-52’S

Fredrick Brown, Jr. Amphitheatre The B-52’s have long been a quintessential 80’s new wave party band. Their hits “Rock Lobster” and “Love Shack” are constantly spun during 80’s dance party nights and played by numerous cover bands across the globe. Yes, they were at their peak in the eighties, but they have a great new album. Funplex, released in 2008, was their first new album in 16 years and “It’s loud, sexy rock & roll with the beat turned up to hot pink”.

Go relive your eighties dance party memories and wear some day-glo neon for god’s sake!

JULY 24 – CHRIS ISAAK

Chastain Park Amphitheater Bluesy roots ‘n’ rock maestro Chris Isaak brings his particular brand of music to Atlanta.

In addition to his musical career, Isaak has dabbled in acting, notably working with David Lynch as well as having his own television show produced for Showtime. If you don’t remember hearing his hit “Wicked Game” all over the radio in the 90’s, then you just weren’t listening to the radio. He’s got some other great tunes as well though, make no mistake. He’s a competent songwriter that straddles an Americana-rock

WE GOT NEXT FOXY SHAZAM

style with a mixture of rockabilly and blues.

Listen out for “Baby Did a Bad Bad Thing”, it’s undeniably catchy with a sleazy groove.

JULY 28 – RIHANNA

Philips Arena Rihanna really came into her own in 2007 with her album Good Girl Gone Bad and her hit single “Umbrella” (ella-ellaella…I couldn’t resist).

She won a Grammy and was nominated for five others, but much of last year was overshadowed with news exploitation of her personal domestic violence issues with her ex. Her album Rated-R was released in late 2009 and brought her a number one hit with “Rude Boy”. She has a fifth studio album on the way in the fall. Rihanna isn’t your typical R&B star, she’s got sex appeal, savvy style, a soulful voice, and an excellent sense of humor. How do I know all that?

Check out her collaboration with Andy Samberg and the Lonely Island, “Shy Ronnie” is hilarious.

AUGUST 01 - BORIS, RUSSIAN CIRCLES

Masquerade Japanese experimental rock trio, Boris, brings their genre-hopping music to the masses here in the ATL. Named after a song by The Melvins, their influences are as eclectic as the music they play…citing Sleep, Nick Cave, Nick Drake, Venom, and the Melvins in particular. Their style has ranged from sludgey, droney metal, to psychedelic and noise rock, hardcore punk, and ambient. Russian Circles is another three piece, they play instrumental music and are a worthy band to share the stage. Their use of sampling and looping creates a mass of sound which ranges from metal to delicate sound layers. Join these two great bands for a mind expanding journey into wide ranging and complex music.

Artists on the verge of making it big

Latest Project: Foxy Shazam (Sire) For Fans of: Elton John, Meat Loaf, James Brown, The Darkness Why You Should Care: Because this Cincinnati band, which made Spin’s 10 Bands You Need To Know list for 2010, combines a classic rock ‘n’ roll sound with a theatrical presence that will remind you of legends like Freddie Mercury in his heyday.

BY JOHN B. MOORE

F

talented studio musicians such as Josh Freese and Thomas Pridgen from the Mars Volta. We also had a bunch of awesome gospel singers that came in and did choir backups.

This was your first record for Sire. Did you notice any difference recording for a major label versus an indie?

Yeah, I noticed a difference. We had unlimited resources. When we were under an indie we had limits. This record was limitless.

Your music tends to defy categorization. Does that make it harder to book shows?

Sometimes people don’t know what to do with it. People are used to certain things and this is something new so that scares people. That goes for listeners and people who work with us as a band. If you want to break new ground you gotta break it.

OXY SHAZAM HAVE ALWAYS HAD A hard time fitting in. But they seem to be fine with their lot in life. The band spent a couple years on the hardcore/metal label Ferret Music, despite owing more to James Brown and Elton John than bands like Poison the Well and Shadows Fall. Now on a new home (Sire Records) with a new record, a new drummer and a bigger sound, the Cincinnati band is ready to finally take over the world. Nally spoke recently about the band, being a dad/rocker, as well as mentioning that they happen to be God’s favorite band. Read on.

The new record sounds so much larger than the last one. Was that intentional?

Yes. With each record we try to move forward.

We never want to make the same record twice. The last record was very modest and this record was very extravagant. It was the way we wanted it.

Who did you work with on this one?

John Feldmann produced it with the exception of one song (“Count Me Out”) which was produced

by Rob Cavollo. We didn’t have a drummer at the time so we had the pleasure of working with very

Being a dad, is it hard for you to spend so much time on the road? Do you bring your sons along?

It’s the hardest part of being on the road and in a band for me. I don’t bring them on the road now.

I don’t think it would be good conditions for them now but hopefully someday. Its interesting living two opposite ends of the spectrum, a touring musician and a poppa. It makes who I am.

There are some obvious influences, like Queen and even Elton John. What other bands have influenced your sound?

Queen actually doesn’t influence me at all. I love Elton John. I’m also influenced by different types of food. A lot of the inspiration for this record came from the way my dad smelled after he cut the grass when I was a kid...and the smell of burning wood.

I like the new album a lot, but there are a few songs in particular that I keep coming back to. Is

there a story behind the songs “Wanna Be Angel” and “Second Floor”?

There are stories behind both of those songs but I’m going to pick one. So let’s talk about “Second Floor”. When I was about 8 years old I had my first overnight at my friend Zach’s house, which was about six or seven houses down from my mom’s house, which was the house I grew up in. For some reason I had always been extremely nervous about having overnights away from my parents. I tried it a few times before, but always had to call my parents to go home. This was the first time I tried to stick it out. It was probably about midnight and Zach’s mom had put both of us to bed upstairs on the second floor. I was lying in bed staring at the ceiling, so scared for some reason. It wasn’t anything in particular; it was just a feeling I had. So I waited until everyone was sleeping and I didn’t hear any walking around downstairs. I snuck out of bed very quietly trying not to wake up my friend. I knew that if I went through the downstairs door the dog would start barking and his parents would wake up.

I just knew I had to get home somehow. So I snuck over to the window, opened it up, and jumped from the second floor down to the street and ran all the way home in my pajamas. It was in the middle of the night, so my mom was sleeping and the door was locked. So I had to sneak to my mom’s window, which was open because it was summertime. I whispered to my mom, “Wake up, it’s me. I want to come home. Let me in.” So basically this song is that story in comparison to my career. Sometimes next level shit is scary, and I get the same feeling

about my career where I just want to get out and jump from the second floor.

Anything else you want to add?

Yes. We’re God’s favorite band.

PG 19 • insiteatlanta.com • July 2010

MUSIC

MUSIC

Album Reviews

By B. Love, John Moore, Natalie B. David, Matt Conner & Ed Morales

BROKEN BELLS – SELF-TITLED (Columbia) Killer creative collaborations BL: A former college radio DJ who initially recorded trip-hop under the pseudonym of Pelican City, Danger Mouse’s (a.k.a. Brian Burton) career has become increasingly diverse in recent years. Whether remixing Elephant 6 favorites Neutral Milk Hotel, collaborating with underground rapper Jemini or smashing up Jay-Z and The Beatles on his landmark Grey Album, he has seemed determined to avoid pigeonholing from the very start.

Burton’s more recent work with artists such as animated Brit-poppers Gorillaz, stylistic chameleon Beck and hip-hop oddball MF Doom served to reinforce his remarkable range, while the soulful sound of Gnarls Barkley (his collaboration with Green) showcased his burgeoning skills as a songwriter and multi-instrumentalist. But his latest album, which finds him collaborating with Shins frontman James Mercer as Broken Bells, reveals Burton to be precisely what he has claimed to be all along: An auteur.

Broken Bells bursts with the promise of being the first chapter in an ongoing musical collaboration between two indie talents most fans would never have imagined together. At its best, the band’s sound is a perfect balance between the Shins’ bittersweet pop melodies and Danger Mouse’s mellow trip-hop atmospheres, with equal emphasis on emotionally intimate songwriting and lush, hazy production.

Opening single “The High Road” sets the downtempo tone, with organs, synth bleeps and blips and warm reverb augmenting what is essentially a really great (but simple) acoustic folk song. Mercer’s vocals remain as strong as ever, with Burton pushing him outside his comfort zone on the surprisingly funky “The Ghost Inside,” but the album at times has the unsure sound of a new band still trying to find its footing. Given their respective pedigrees, however, you get the feeling that Broken Bells will soon add yet another classic album to Burton’s already impressive catalogue.

STARS – THE FIVE GHOSTS (Vagrant) Broken Social Scenesters craft one of the year’s best MC: The hypnotic guitar tones, the crashing orchestral build, the ethereal synth pop all cultivate an otherworldly atmosphere on the latest Stars album. And that’s just the first track. Amy Millan and Torquil Campbell once again conquer the indie pop/ rock genre with The Five Ghosts, the most realized and consistent release yet for the Broken Social Scene members.

Their last release, In Our Bedroom After the War, earned high praise including a Polaris Music Prize nomination. But it’s Ghosts that impresses even more, merging the bombastic sounds of their earlier work with the more understated material from their last. Up-tempo dance number “We Don’t Want Your Body” flows right into the intense “He Dreams He’s Awake,” proof that Stars will push and pull in any direction they please. In a year of musical highlights, this takes the cake.

THE NEW PORNOGRAPHERS – TOGETHER (Matador) Another strong set from indie pop masterminds ND: With The New Pornographers you always know what you’re going to get: big hooks, meticulous arrangements, clever wordplay and pop that doesn’t lack for power. And that’s the case again on Together the not-quite-supergroup’s fifth collection of indie pop bombast and balladry.

After pushing sweeping melodrama as far as it could go on 2007’s equally-great Challengers, A.C. Newman and Co. backtrack through their catalog on PG 20 • insiteatlanta.com • July 2010

The Dean’s List

Together. Clearly more Twin Cinema than Electric Version, even “Moves”, which recalls the tone-setting pomp of that albums titular opening track, distances this album from its nearest predecessor at the gate; a chorus declaring “these things get louder” can be no accident.

Lead single “Your Hands (Together)” exemplifies what the band does best, mixing group vocals with broad choruses in a fast paced romp. Elsewhere, Newman and Neko Case again play off of one another to perfection, especially on “Up in the Dark” where the bandleader grounds the verses while Case lets fly, begging for an answer to a chorus questioning “What’s love?”. Hearing Case outside of her country noir comfort zone is one of the Pornographer’s greatest assets, and she pops up more on this album than in the past, adding vocals to nearly every tune and more than earning her keep on the album’s standout ballad, “My Shepard”. Even Dan Bejar’s contributions, which can often seem out of place or even jarring, feel more at home here than they have anywhere since the band’s debut.

Together truly finds The New Pornographers nearing the perfection of their craft. They have always played delightful pieces of pop, pleasing to the ears and easily loveable, refreshing yet indebted to pop music’s past. Without sounding at all like a nostalgia band, the Pornographers have still obviously aced their pop history lesson, and it certainly says something about the current state of pop music that tunes this inventive and catchy can’t find a place on the radio dial. Power pop just doesn’t get much better than this.

welcome look back or satisfying gear-shift, but anyone expecting more of the danceable sweetness offered up on Brain Thrust may be disappointed.

Sure, the duo’s clever lyrics and soaring, energetic pop are still mostly in tact—it’s the band’s niche and they’ve consistently nailed it in the past—but without the necessary punchiness of a song like “Chick Lit” or “Nobody Move, Nobody Get Hurt”, much of the album inspires a resigned sigh, rather than an inspired booty shake.

A heavily loaded front-end doesn’t do the album many favors either. Singles “Rules Don’t Stop” and “Nice Guys” are two of Barbara’s best, most infectious tidbits, but they can’t shine enough to usher away the lackluster pall that plagues the disc’s midsection.

Ending on a high note, the sunny, guitar driven “Central AC” seems even out of place as the album’s closer. Barbara isn’t a terrible album, but it’d be better to see more growing, less stalling from a duo that shows such promise. GRADE: C GREG LASWELL – TAKE A BOW (Vanguard) Singer/songwriter gets his groove back

JM: With Take a Bow, Greg Laswell’s fourth record (and third full-length), the California-based singersongwriter has once again found his groove. Coming off like early Snow Patrol (or Coldplay without the pretense) mixed with a bit of late ‘60s Laurel Canyon rock, Laswell has progressively delivered better and better songs with each release. Take a Bow is easily his best so far.

Although a bit somber at times (see: the confessional “Come Clean” and the title track), Take a Bow still has its upbeat moments– though not exactly fist-in-theair anthems– like “In Front of Me” and the sweeping “You, Now.” Laswell’s songs show up regularly on Grey’s Anatomy (six times and counting), so he’s also included a new version of “Off I Go” from the TV drama’s season finale.

All in all a completely satisfying release from one DANGER MOUSE & SPARKLEHORSE – DARK NIGHT OF THE SOUL (EMI) of the most underrated American singer-songwriters A fitting swan song for two indie icons recording today. GRADE: B+ BL: Danger Mouse and Sparklehorse may get top billing on Dark Night Of The Soul, but the album’s actually a cohesive communal effort featuring guest appearances from a litany of indie icons (including film director David Lynch, who contributes vocals to two tracks as well as a book of photographs described as “a visual narrative” for the music).

Most of these distinctive singers fit surprisingly well into Burton’s cinematic soundscapes, although abrasive tracks featuring Black Francis and Iggy Pop are notable exceptions. But the Flaming Lips prove perfect partners-in-crime on the opening “Revenge,” which coasts on a dreamy cloud of hallucinogenic melancholy; the Strokes’ Julian Casablancas lends his hipster croon to the bouncy “Little Girl”; and Suzanne Vega adds angelic charm to “The Man Who Played God.” Linkous, who had long battled drug addiction, committed suicide in March. When combined with the album’s title and an appearance by Athens legend Vic Chesnutt (who also killed himself) on “Grim Augury,” it’d be easy to imagine this album as a maudlin affair. But Dark Night Of The Soul is an immersive experience rich with artistry and invention, standing as both a tribute to Linkous’ legacy and yet another testament to Brian Burton’s talent.

AM TAXI – WE DON’T STAND A CHANCE (Virgin) Wearing influences, proudly and well

EM: It must be a tough row for bands musically influenced by the The Clash and The Replacements not have their music sound like those legendary groups. This creates problems for bands that let these influences stick out like power lines in open fields.

Chicago’s AM Taxi is one of those bands, and maybe that’s one reason its debut is called We Don’t Stand a Chance: It serves as a sly nod to critics who bemoan the lack of originality in today’s music. But I’m not going to do that here. These guys write some catchy-ass songs, and I don’t care where the genesis came from. I just want to sing along.

Following 13 seconds of reverb on the opening “Dead Street,” We Don’t Stand A Chance rollicks through the next 45 minutes at breakneck speed, sporting rowdy choruses and sharp lyrics. Frontman Adam Krier rasps amiably as the power chords and thumping drums coast merrily along. “Charissa” touts its Clash roots with grinding guitars and gang-backing vocals, belied by touching lyrics, while “The Mistake” pumps a Mats’ beat and killer hook against Krier’s halting words (“I am the ambulance that never comes/ I am the anecdote you spill”). There are musical double takes– “Reckless Ways” is Weezer, “Maydays & Rosaries” is The Police, “Fed Up” is Bruce Springsteen and Jimmy Eat World is EVERYWHERE– but the imitations aren’t obvious, and the melding of influences creates a genre all its WE ARE SCIENTISTS – BARBARA (Masterswan Recordings) own. Are there bumps? Sure. “Champagne Toast” Clever soaring pop, but where’d the dance floor go? ends the album on an odd, low-tempo note, while “Shake, Rattle & Stall” is a tired melody you’ve heard ND: Typically when a band severs ties with its a million times before. No matter. AM Taxi celebrates major label, their music takes a step forward. That’s its heroes, but doesn’t ape them. Joe Strummer would not the case here. For album #4, We Are Scientists be flattered. GRADE: B+ have retreated, shunning the obvious ‘80s homages heard on 2008’s Brain Thrust Mastery in favor of a JUDI CHICAGO – BRIGHT LIGHTS, FUN CITY (Aljera Music) mellowed out, slicked back version of the pop-centric Dancing ‘til the lights go out style they patented on their major label debut, With Love and Squalor.

BL: If you didn’t know better, you might think Judi The change of pace could be attributed to primary Chicago was some long-lost act from the Madchester songwriter Keith Murray’s lifestyle shift from the Big scene of the late ‘80s, when bands such as the Stone Apple to Athens, where he relocated to write the Roses and Happy Mondays combined elements of bulk of Barbara. For some, this adjustment may be a indie-rock, psychedelia and techno to make dance

Rest of the Class

music fun again.

The multi-instrumentalist trio of James Joyce, Travis Thatcher and British-born transplant Ben Coleman has been reinventing that sound with a modern hipster twist since 2006, notorious for live shows that trod the thin line dividing sophomoric shenanigans from postpunk performance art. On their second album with producer Ben Allen, the band continues to make the party their priority, offering up infectious, groovecentered ditties such as “Fun City,” “Burger Hole” and “Technicolor Silver Chrome & Chicken Bone.”

Their simple songs may not save your soul, but the cheeky irreverence and reckless abandon with which they approach them may help you see the politics of dancing in a whole new light. GRADE: B REFUSED– THE SHAPE OF PUNK TO COME: DELUXE VERSION (Epitaph) Groundbreaking album gets special re-release treatment JM: With just 12 tracks, the Swedish punk-rockers Refused created what may be the most influential hardcore record of their generation. Twelve years later, Epitaph has given the album the much-deserved royalty treatment, including a never-before-released live album and the documentary Refused Are Fucking Dead, which details their tumultuous last year as a band.

Released in 1998– the same year the band called it quits– The Shape of Punk to Come is a big step away from Refused’s first two records, borrowing sounds from the drum & bass genre to change things up a bit.

The lyrics are still decidedly political, espousing strong anarchistic philosophies. The band ultimately broke up mid-tour, shortly after the album was released, and that building tension just added to the energy in the songs. Epitaph’s re-release of the classic album is a great opportunity for a whole new generation of punk rockers, many of whom associated hardcore with scream-o bands, to finally discover the band.

Refused may never have reached Green Day-like punk-rock fame– there certainly won’t be a Broadway version of their album in the future– but they will go down in history as one of the most influential bands in the genre. GRADE: A ED KOWALCZYK – ALIVE (Soul Whisper) Former frontman goes stale on solo debut MC: Thematically speaking, Ed Kowalczyk’s been on a roll of sorts with his band Live, moving from the highlysuccessful but sullen material on their multi-platinum debut, Throwing Copper, through the spiritual hope and love found on Birds Of Pray and V. Now, on his solo debut, Alive, he’s finally able to fully express his own personal revelations of the heart and soul.

Unfortunately, Alive is anything but uplifting artistically. Songs like the lead single, “Grace,” feel like Christian rock tunes and, at best, the songs come off as stale Live leftovers. Kowalczyk’s potent vocals are unmistakeable, but it all feels tired at this point, both musically and lyrically. “Drive” and “Just in Time” are the best of the bunch here, but really that’s not much saying much. Enlightened Kowalczyk may be, but it hasn’t hit the songwriting yet. GRADE: D VARIOUS ARTISTS – WE FUN: ATLANTA, GA INSIDE/OUT (MVD Visual) An inside look at an exploding scene BL: Back in 1987, Athens, GA Inside/Out introduced the world to the musically fertile college town that had given birth to bands such as R.E.M., the B-52’s and Pylon. Now, director Matthew Robison’s documentary seeks to do the same for the Atlanta indie-rock scene that has made stars out of bands such as the Black Lips, Deerhunter and the Coathangers.

Robison’s camera follows the bands as move from playing cramped house parties to headlining venues such as the Variety Playhouse. Interviews with band members, journalists and record label owners attempt to put things into historical perspective, but the result lacks much in the way of dramatic punch.

Timing is everything: Had he filmed a year later, Robison would’ve been able to capture these bands as they rose to national acclaim, and as they lost one of their own (B Jay Womack, frontman of Bobby & the Soft Spots and longtime scenester) to cancer. Still, it’s a fine tribute to a local music scene that continues to grow and expand. GRADE: B

ATLANTA’S PREMIERE LIVE MUSIC VENUE

695 North Ave NE • Atlanta, GA 30308 404.577.8178 www.masq.com Tickets available at The Masquerade Box & www.ticketmaster.com • 404.249.6400 Tower Records • Publix Super Markets

Fri

JUL 2 JUL 14 Sat

JUL 17 Fri

JUL 30

AUG 5 AUG 9 AUG 11

EARTH, WIND & FIRE Average White Band

SCORPIONS Ratt

AUG 15

AUG 19

AUG 26

COREY SMITH ���������������������

STEVE MILLER BAND Peter Frampton

SUGARLAND Little Big Town

GREEN DAY AFI

ARCADE FIRE Spoon

Presented By Windstorm and OK Productions Sun

Sat

AUG 21

O.A.R.

Sat

AUG 28 SEP 29

The Dukes of September Rhythm Revue Featuring

DONALD FAGEN, MICHAEL MCDONALD & BOZ SCAGGS

STS9

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With many more guests to be announced

An Evening with

RUSH Featuring for the first time ever,

MOVING PICTURES in its entirety Fri/Sat

SEP 24/25 Sat

WIDESPREAD PANIC World Vision Presents

Difference Tour 2010

MAX LUCADO, MICHAEL W. SMITH, THIRD DAY & TOBYMAC

SHERYL CROW Colbie Caillat

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All artists and schedules subject to change without notice. All tickets subject to service charge. 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. ©2010 Verizon Wireless Owned and operated by the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra

Sing Tickelte ON SALs NOW! E Fri

JULY 30 Sat

JULY 31

Boyz II Men En Vogue The Music of Queen – A Rock and Symphonic Spectacular

with the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra

Fri

AUG 6

With The

Atlanta Symphony Orchestra

FRIDAY, JULY 9 This show is reserved seating only. No tables, coolers or carry-ins.

Sat

JULY 10 Sat

JULY 17

Ringo Starr and His All Starr Band Mary Chapin Carpenter

Sat

Chris Isaak Marc Broussard

Wed

JULY 28

Devo

Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings David Rhodes

.38 Special Drivin’ N Cryin’

Sat

AUG 14

Wed

AUG 18

Rebecca Loebe JULY 24

Fri

AUG 13

Cyndi Lauper

Wed

AUG 25 Fri

AUG 27 Fri

SEPT 10

Erykah Badu Heart

Neko Case

The B-52s ��Blondie Train

NEEDTOBREATHE

The Avett Brothers

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

Sat

SEPT 11

Charlie Wilson Angie Stone

Tickets available at all Ticketmaster outlets including Publix Super Markets.

TICKETMASTER.COM���1.800.745.3000 Woodruff Arts Center Box Office

(M - F: 10AM - 8PM; Sat: Noon - 8PM; Sun: Noon - 5PM)

Group Sales 404.733.4848 Delta Classic Chastain Concerts promoted by ASO Presents support the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra Concerts take place rain or shine. Artists and schedules are subject to change.

All sales final. No exchanges or refunds.

DELTACLASSICCHASTAIN.COM PG 21 • insiteatlanta.com • July 2010

2010 Concert Series

Fri, July 9

Sat, July 10

TROTLINE (Country Cover)

Sat, July 17

Thu, July 15

July 2

THE SWINGING MEDALLIONS July 9

AARON THOMPSON CASEY DONAHEW (Texas Country) BAND (Party Rock Cover)

w/ Emory Quinn

Sat, July 24

Fri, July 30

WORLD CLASS ROCKERS July 10

POPTART MONKEYS

THEVELCROPYGMIES (80’s Rock Cover)

(Party Rock Cover)

BOZ SCAGGS

Moby Dick

Upcoming Shows July 24 – THE B-52’S August 7 – JOSE FELICIANO Sept. 24 – THE RAT PACK IS BACK

(Rock Cover)

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Cirque D’or

Box Office 770-819-7765 M-F: 11-6 p.m., Show days: 3 - 9 p.m.

5239 Floyd Road, Mableton

by Golden Dragon Acrobats

July 8 & 9

UPCOMING SHOWS: July 31 Wade Ford presents Jeff Lorber, Phil Perry & Ronnie Laws.

July 22

Aug. 13 Survivor & Starship featuring Mickey Thomas Sept. 4 Wade Ford presents Sheila E, Nick Colionne and Marion Meadows Sept. 10

TICKETS PRICES: $6 - $32.50

John Michael Montgomery

Sept. 17-18 Atlanta Smooth Music Festival featuring Paul Taylor, Pieces of A Dream, Jessy J, Gregg Karukas, Althea Rene and Sekou Bunch.

Smokey Robinson

PG 22 • insiteatlanta.com • July 2010

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“Beautifully choreographed routines showcasing their amazing skills and physicality, accompanied by a musical score of traditional Chinese music filtered through a New Age sensibility.” - NEW YORK POST ElandersUSA

MUSIC

DON’T LOOK BACK IN ANGER James Hall Reminisces about Mary My Hope, His Solo Career, hurricane Katrina & Life as a Musical Nomad

BY BRET LOVE

T

HE ATLANTA ROCK SCENE HAS always been a mercurial beast, but singer-songwriter James Hall is the rare veteran who’s managed to stay relevant on both a local and national level for the better part of 20 years.

He first made a name for himself with late ‘80s alt-rockers Mary My Hope, who combined elements of classic rockers such as Led Zeppelin and The Doors with the goth-influenced post-punk of Bauhaus and Echo & the Bunnymen. The band signed with the UK-based Silvertone Records (also home to The Stone Roses) and landed high-profile slots touring with Love & Rockets and Jane’s Addiction, but eventually called it quits due to the usual “creative differences.”

Disillusioned by the experience, Hall moved to New Orleans in the early ‘90s, signing to Amy Ray’s Daemon Records for his 1993 solo album My Love, Sex & Spirit, then signing to major label Geffen Records with a new band for 1996’s Pleasure Club. But despite the fact that all of his creative efforts earned widespread critical acclaim, Hall never achieved the fame and fortune of peers such as the Black Crowes (who, it should be noted, left Atlanta before they became rock stars).

Returning to Atlanta in the wake of Hurricane Katrina, Hall formed a new band called the Futura Bold with guitarist Chris Piskun and bassist/producer Bruce Butkovitch. The trio recently released their self-titled debut album, and we were delighted to get an hour of Hall’s time to discuss everything from his breakthrough band to what keeps his musical heart pumping after more than 20 years in the business.

How would you describe the Atlanta music scene back in the mid-‘80s, when Mary My Hope first came together?

Mary My Hope was basically four kids embarking on a journey into a very adult world.

This was 1986, and there were a lot of older bands that had been on the scene a lot longer than we had and were clearly a lot further along as far as progress and experience. I remember showing up at these parties and seeing the full-time musicians’ lifestyle for the first time, and we were pretty wide-eyed about it all.

“You mean these girls want US?!” We couldn’t quite get our minds around it, but we indulged ourselves in whatever ways we could. If you remember the party scene at the beginning of Boogie Nights, it was very much like that– really open and free.

You guys weren’t like anything else happening in the local scene at that time. Do you think it was more difficult if you were perceived as “alternative” back then?

Yeah. We alienated a lot of the bands that were worshipping at the altar of Pete Buck and company. The landscape back then was filled with bands that were doing jangly, Byrdsinfluenced power-pop. We were serious R.E.M. fans, but we were more of a product of growing up in the ‘70s. We took some of the sonics from Ted Nugent, the spirit of Iggy & the Stooges, and the conceptualization of bands like Pink Floyd, asking ourselves how we could speak that sort of musical language. I was also

listening to The Smiths, Jesus & Mary Chain and Echo & the Bunnymen, and soon we were jamming on that stuff as well.

Mary My Hope released a great debut and got to open for Love & Rockets and Jane’s Addiction, but within a few years you’d disbanded.

What happened?

Personally, I hadn’t really learned how to be an adult yet, as far as paying my own rent, making a budget, sticking to a schedule and working hard.

Being immature, I was angry at the system, at my bandmates, at anybody but the actual source of my problems, which was myself. I made my bandmates out to be my enemies. We also ran out of resources: We got signed, made a record and went out on the road, then we came home and the album didn’t really sell that well and we had to go back to the drawing board. At a certain point you either start to sell records, which didn’t happen for us, or the record company starts trying to pair you with producers who do sell records. When we started working on the second record we had no money to tour, no van, we were in debt and we were starting to shoot each other’s songs down as opposed to doing what we could to make them better. It just felt like a losing proposition, so I was like, I gotta get out of here!

Is that part of what inspired you to leave Atlanta and move to New Orleans?

I felt, perhaps unjustifiably so in retrospect, that Mary My Hope had a bigger footprint than we actually did. I didn’t want anything I did musically to be compared to Mary My Hope.

I didn’t want to be tied down to that sound. I wanted to free myself from that whole scene, because I felt like I’d learned every rudimentary lesson that classic rock or post-punk could’ve shown me. I wanted to go somewhere where I was basically a schmo and Mary My Hope had maybe 10 fans in New Orleans, so the likelihood of me running into anybody who knew me at a show was slim to none. I’d also discovered James Brown’s deep funk stuff that summer after hearing “Papa Don’t Take No Mess” at a bar in Nashville, and thought it was an interesting “other universe” to the psychedelia I’d been into. My friends turned me on to more of his stuff and albums like Funkadelic’s “Free Your Mind & Your Ass Will Follow,” and I went to New Orleans consumed by this cool sound I knew nothing about. I didn’t know what to do with it or how to incorporate it into my music– it was like learning Arabic for me, because it was so far outside my frame of reference– but it had a huge impact on me when I moved to New Orleans, as did local acts like The Meters, Dr. John and Lee Dorsey.

By 1996 you had signed to Geffen Records for the release of Pleasure Club, which made three albums for you in six years, with three different bands and three different record labels. What do you think it is about you that makes you such a musical nomad?

(Laughs) I’ve been wondering about that myself. It would appear that I have a great

inclination for making the first record and a second record or EP, then either having a need or finding a reason to start from scratch.

Bruce Butkovitch of the Futura Bold noticed I’d never made a third record with any band, so he said that was his goal for this group. I think that’s as spirited a goal as any grown man could have!

Is it just boredom? A need to keep challenging yourself?

I think a lot of it was just life circumstance getting in the way. Some of it over the years was ego– “I don’t want to be stuck doing the same thing!”– then realizing at the ripe old age of 42 that, you know what, I HAVE made the same two records over and over again! They’re great albums, but there’s a lot of similar stuff being touched upon on all the records. To realize that offers its own special blend of humility.

What prefaced your move back to Atlanta a few years ago?

It was Hurricane Katrina. We’d been living in New Orleans for 15 years. My wife and I had a son there and he was going into third grade when we were evacuated to Memphis. I was able to call a friend in the neighborhood named Brian and his fiancé told us, “It’s absolute bedlam here. There’s a river running down our street and Brian is out in the canoe collecting abandoned pets, then we’re getting out of here.”

As news reports started filtering through, we realized our house was flooded, my son’s school was flooded and everything sat under water for a week. There was this realization that there’s nowhere to go now. There’s no job to rush off to. There’s nowhere to be but right here. My wife started getting calls from her sister-in-law in Kennesaw, who said a principal at the school there was keeping a spot open for Liam. So we started wrapping our minds around being back in Atlanta again. In October of 2005, we loaded up what little belongings we had left and moved to Kennesaw.

How did you hook up with Bruce and Chris Piskun to form the Futura Bold?

Chris auditioned for Pleasure Club back in 2000, but he was pretty young. Chris has what I’d call a wildly inspired talent: He’s so creative he could cough, and it would still fit the song just right. When Pleasure Club played Atlanta he’d come to our shows, and he started to seem more like a grownup and less like this bug-eyed kid. He told me the show where Mary My Hope opened for Love & Rockets had changed

SO MANY OF THE LESSONS I’VE LEARNED HAVE COME ON THE BACK OF BAD ART, AND THOSE LESSONS HAVE PROVEN EXTREMELY WORTHWHILE.

his life. So when Pleasure Club folded in 2004 I got bitter, angry and sad, but my friends wouldn’t let me go there. So I got Chris to come down to New Orleans to hang out and play music together. Three weeks later I was booking a show, and it was everything we hoped for. After Katrina hit, I gave away all my guitars I didn’t need and started a wonderfully liberating discipline of simplifying my life. Chris and Bruce had been close buddies for a long time, and Bruce offered to play bass and help me record what little material I had at that point. We got to work right away, and some of those songs actually made it onto the Futura Bold record.

The greatest thing about a garage band is that it’s idiot-proof. (Laughs) You’ve consistently danced around the fringe of a mainstream breakthrough throughout your career, yet never become a household name. Is that sort of success something that interests you or scares you?

Well, I’ve had a certain fear of failure and screwing things up along the way, but I’m not really experiencing that at the moment. So many of the lessons I’ve learned have come on the back of bad art, and those lessons have proven extremely worthwhile. I’m not always the best judge of my work: I recall hearing my wife listening to something I thought was the coolest take on alternative rock, with soul-style harmonies and great basslines, only to realize it was a demo I’d forgotten I had done. At the time I’d considered that stuff to be a poor man’s Echo & the Bunnymen, but it was actually pretty good in retrospect. I was genuinely shocked to realize it was my song. So I don’t really know where I fit into the whole household name thing, but I don’t know that I’m ever gonna sell loads of copies to teenagers. And I’m okay with that.

Now that you’ve hit 40, married and have a kid, what drives your passion for music?

I think it’s the awareness of how little I truly know about the world. I’ve known about guys like King Sunny Ade and Fela Kuti for years, but I only heard their music for the first time this year.

There are young bands that feed my passion, too, like TV On The Radio, MGMT and Portugal The Man. These guys are doing stuff at such a highly functional creative clip so early in the game, it gives me the passion to continue doing it as well.

For me, newness reigns supreme, and exploring new territory is inspiring for a guy who has basically made the same two records over and over again. (Laughs) PG 23 • insiteatlanta.com • July 2010

East ATL Village | badearl.com

Thu. July 08, 2010 | 8:30PM

THE EARL’S 11TH ANNIV. WEEKEND GENTLEMAN JESSE The Coathangers | Grumpy

Fri. July 09, 2010 | 9:00PM

THE EARL’S 11TH ANNIVERSARY! MAN OR ASTRO-MAN? Twin Tigers

Sat. July 10, 2010 | 9:00PM

THE EARL’S 11TH ANNIVERSARY! MAN OR ASTRO-MAN? Hawks

Tue. July 13, 2010 | 8:30PM

MARIA TAYLOR ANDY LEMASTER The Meeks Family | Coyote Bones (solo) Wed. July 14, 2010 | 8:30PM

BOB LOG III

Molly Gene One Whoaman Band | Glen Iris Sat. July 17, 2010 | 9:00PM

ZOROASTER All the Saints

Thu. July 22, 2010 | 8:30PM

CLEM SNIDE

The Heligoats | Telegram Sun. July 25, 2010 | 8:00PM

DAN SARTAIN

The Booze | Howlies Mon. July 26, 2010 | 8:30PM

DRINK UP BUTTERCUP Fri. July 30, 2010 | 9:00PM

ARIEL PINK’S HAUNTED GRAFFITI Magic Kids | Pearl Harbor

Fri. August 06, 2010 | 9:00PM

HERE WE GO MAGIC Beach Fossils

Tix available at Fantasyland Records, Decatur, CD, Criminal Records, The EARL & badearl.com

See it Live! Atlanta Venue Guide The best places to hear live music in Atlanta OUTDOOR VENUES Aaron's Amphitheatre at Lakewood

2002 Lakewood Way 404.443.5000 www.livenation.com

Atlanta's largest dedicated concert venue in the Southeast. Superior sound reproduction, advanced lighting capabilities and clear, unrestricted sightlines make Aaron’s Amphitheatre the favorite summer concert site for the avid music fan.

Some of their hotly anticipated upcoming shows include: 311 and Offspring (July 17); Warped Tour (July 26); Mayhem Festival w/ Korn (August 1) and Flashback Festival (August 7)

Chastain Park

4469 Stella Dr. NW. 404.253.5926 www.classicchastain.com

Chastain Amphitheatre is one of the great outdoor concert venues in the country. It is an ideal setting to combine dining al fresco with a diverse range of musical talent. Among the top performances for the 2010 season include: Ringo Starr (July 10); Chris Isaak (July 24); Boyz II Men, En Vogue (July 30) and Cyndi Lauper (August 6)

Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre

Encore Park in Alpharetta 404.249.6400 www.vzwamp.com

Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre has quickly become the entertainment destination for music lovers across the region.

Set on 45 acres of beautifully-landscaped wooded land in Alpharetta, the 12,000seat Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre at Encore Park provides a unique setting for both music lovers and first-time concertgoers. 2010 summer line-up includes: Scorpions (July 14); Steve Miller Band (July 30); Sugarland (August 5); O.A.R. (August 15); Maroon 5 (August 21) and STS9 (August 28)

Mable House Barnes Amphitheatre

5239 Floyd Rd, Mableton 770.819.7765 www.mablehouse.org

LIVE MUSIC LINEUP FOR JULY Sundays Mondays Tuesdays Wednesdays Thursdays FRI 2 – SAT 3 – FRI 9 – SAT 10 – FRI 16 – SAT 17 – FRI 23 – SAT 24 – FRI 30 – SAT 31 –

FAT BACK DELUXE UNCLE SUGAR J.T. SPEED DEACON BRANDON REEVES CHICKENSHACK

FRANKIES BLUES MISSION WORK IN PROGRESS DELTA ROCKERS THE SOLAR BEARS BLUE MONKEYS KERRY HILL J.T. SPEED THE POCKET MAFIA FELIX & THE CATS BIG CLARENCE & THE RINGERS

1811 Piedmont Ave. NE

404-607-1622

For Booking: 404-325-8846 PG 24 • insiteatlanta.com • July 2010

Located in south Cobb County, Mable House Amphitheatre can seat 2,400 people for everything from country to rock and from plays to symphony orchestra performances. Highlights of the 2010 summer concert schedule include: Smokey Robinson (July 22), Survivor & Starship (August 13) and John Michael Montgomery (September 10)

Frederick Brown Amphitheatre

201 McIntosh Trail Peachtree City 770.631.0630 www,amphitheater.org

Located in Peachtree City, "The Fred" offers a unique and intimate concert experience. It has established itself as one of the leading outdoor entertainment venues in the metro area. Anticipated shows this summer include Boz Scaggs (July 10), B-52s (July 24); Jose Feliciano (August 7) much more.

OUTDOOR VENUES Philips Arena

100 Centennial Park 404.584.7825 www.philipsarena.com

Home to the Hawks, Thrashers and now the Atlanta Dream, Atlanta's largest indoor entertainment venue also showcases some great concerts. Highly anticipated concerts this year include: Rihanna (July 28) and Tom Petty (August 11)

The Fox Theatre

660 Peachtree St. 404.817.8700 www.foxtheatre.org

The city's oldest and most revered venue is best known for its theatrical performances. However they do house musical acts from time to time and many say it is among the best concert atmospheres they have experienced. Upcoming concerts include: Trey Songz and Monica (August 13)

Cobb Energy Center

2800 Cobb Galleria Pkwy 770.916.2800 www.cobbenergycentre.com

First major performing arts facility built in metro Atlanta in four decades.

Anticipated summer shows include: Melissa Ethridge (July 23); Ultimate Michael Jackson Experience (July 24); Happy Together Tour (July 28)

The Arena at Gwinnett

6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy. 770.813.7600 www.GwinnettCenter.com

As part of the 80 acre Gwinnett Center campus, The Arena is a state of the art 13,000 seat facility. It boasts widened seats, a high-end sound system along with acoustical enhancements and versatile lighting. Upcoming concerts include: Justin Bieber (August 9) and Carrie Underwood (Oct. 27)

Variety Playhouse

1099 Euclid Ave. L5pts 404.521.1786 www.variety-playhouse.com

This is Little Five Points' largest music venue, but it can also be one of its most intimate. The Variety has great acoustics and sound combined with an eclectic mix of artists. Some of the great shows appearing this summer include: Cowboy Junkies (July 24) and Asia (August 18)

Smith's Olde Bar

1578 Piedmont Ave 404.875.1522 www.smithsoldebar.com

Expect to see the best national, regional, and upcoming acts while enjoying the laid-back, intimate atmosphere. Check out Tishamingo (July 22); Chris Night Band (July 24) and Stroke 9 (August 5)

The Tabernacle

152 Luckie Street 404.659.9022 www.livenation.com

This turn of the century church turned concert venue attracts some of the biggest national acts. Crowded House (August 1); Patton Oswalt (August 21)

The Peachtree Tavern

3179 Peachtree Rd. 404.842.1700 www.peachtreetavern.com

The Peachtree Tavern is known for their awesome tribute bands and up and coming national acts. This month check out: Poptart Monkeys (July 17); Velcro Pygmies (July 24); Moby Dick (July 30)

Wild Bill's

2075 Market St. 678-473-1000 www.wildbillsatlanta.com

Duluth complex is one of the largest country-music dance club and concert halls in the country. Upcoming shows include: 53 to Nowhere (July 3)

Masquerade

695 North Ave. NE 404.577.8178 www.masq.com

Masquerade offers three rooms for dancing and lounging and an outdoor deck. It attracts a combination of loud rock, 80s retro music, and modern electronics.

Expect to see a changing crowd depending on the night. Upcoming Shows include: YahZarah (July 9); Seven Story Fall (July 17); Sublime with Rome (July 23)

The Earl

488 Flat Shoals Ave. 404.522.3950 www.badearl.com

An East Atlanta institution for great live music. Anything and everything can be heard at The Earl and the crowd varies with the bands. National acts and the best of the emerging Atlanta music scene grace the stage nightly to packed crowds.

In July catch: Man or Astro Man (July 9,10); Dan Sartain (July 25)

Five Spot

1123 Euclid Ave. 404.223.1100 www.fivespot-atl.com

Atlanta's most inclusive music and arts venue features industry nights every Monday, a wild Open Mic Jam on Tuesdays, Jazz Thursdays, and Reggae every third Sunday of each month. On

any given night you can catch funk, hiphop, soul, jazz, blues, or rock fusion performances. Upcoming music shows in July include: Jango Monkey (July 1); Blue Remedy (July 10)

Center Stage

1374 W. Peachtree St. 404.885.1365 www.centerstage-atlanta.com This multi-level music complex houses Center Stage, The Loft and Vinyl. The Center Stage is the largest of the three and books national acts including: Dwele (July 1); Atlanta’s Fight Night (July 23); Battlefest Live Atlanta (July 24)

Eddie's Attic

Decatur Square. 4.377.4976 www.eddiesattic.com

Decatur's most prominent music venue features some of the best acoustical music in the city. Made famous by the frequent appearances of the Indigo Girls, they still offer some great acts.

Upcoming performers include: Sam Baker (July 2); Lexi Street (July 15); Indigo Girls (July 19)

Fat Matt's Rib Shack

1811 Piedmont Rd. 404.607.1622 www.fatmatts.com

You like ribs? You like the blues? You can get both seven nights a week. Live music begins at 8pm andcome often, because you never know what blues legend is going to stop in and play. Coming up in July is Delta Rockers (July 9); Kerry Hill (July 17); Felix & The Cats (July 30)

Tin Roof

2591 Briarcliff Road 404.329.4700 www.tinroofcantina.com

This popular Tex-Mex Cantina also boasts a indoor stage and huge outdoor patio. They now feature live music every night and are open late, 'till 4am.

Popular regular acts include: Gareth Asher, Fransico Vidal and Mike Vidal.

10 High

816 N. Highland Avenue 404.873.3607 www.tenhighclub.com

The 10 High is located directly below the Dark Horse Tavern in the heart of the Virginia Highlands neighborhood. The venue is a favorite spot for local music lovers and bands as well. Monday nights feature the well-known Metal-some Monday live band karaoke, where everyone is given the opportunity to hop on stage and re-incarnate the big hair days.

Star Bar

437 Moreland Ave. 404.681.9018 www.starbaratl.com

This Little Five Points music cathedral keeps packing them in. Nothing seems to change here. Romeo Colgne still mixes up the funk disco Tuesday nights and the Elvis Shrine is still alive and well.

Upcoming July shows include: The Booze (July 10); Bigfoot (July 16); The Selmanaires (July 17)

Northside Tavern

1058 Howell Mill Rd. 404.874.8745 www.northsidetavern.com

Legendary blues and barbecue keeps them coming to the Westside. July shows include: Uncle Sugar (July 11); Danny “Mudcat” Dudeck (July 21); The Breeze Kings (July 22)

529

529 Flat Shoals Ave 404.228.6769 www.529atl.com

This popular East Atlanta venue has been attracting a large following.

Highlighted shows in July include: This Piano Plys Itself (July 7); Barreracudas (July 17); Tornado Town (July 23)

Apache Cafe

64 3rd St. NW 404.876.5436 www.apachecafe.com

Eclectic mix of spoken word, punk and jazz. July shows include: Zoogmai: Phish After Party (July 3); Diamond D (July 23) and Donnie (July 16)

JULY 26

AUGUST 1

CHARGE BY PHONE : 800-745-3000. All dates, acts and ticket prices subject to change without notice. Ticket prices subject to applicable fees.

PG 25 • insiteatlanta.com • July 2010

TRAVEL

A COMPLETE RETREAT The Ritz-Carlton Lodge at Reynolds Plantation

BY MARCI MILLER

L

OCATED JUST 75 MILES EAST OF Atlanta, The Ritz-Carlton Lodge, Reynolds Plantation is the perfect place for a quick getaway from the city. At roughly an hour and a half, the drive is very manageable.

The Lodge features 251-rooms on the shores of Lake Oconee, the second largest lake in Georgia.

As you drive in you take in the greenery which includes one of the six golf courses on the property.

Guests will marvel at the elaborate wooden bridge that crosses a stream running to the lake. During the hot summer months, guests are greeted at the valet upon arrival with ice cold bottles of Ritz Water, perfect to beat the heat. Once inside the Lodge lives up to its name. The lobby offers distinguished dark wood paneled walls with a cathedral ceiling featuring exposed wooden beams. The expansive lobby provides plenty of comfortable seating areas for meeting and a wonderful outdoor patio looking directly upon the lake.

The rooms are spacious and come with furnishings that you would expect from Ritz-Carlton. The beds feature Egyptian cotton linens, feather duvets and goose down pillows. The bathrooms feature an abundance of granite and marble with large tub and counter area. Most rooms have patio doors that offer great views of the lake, pool area and manicured grounds. We could see there was a lot of activity outside our doors and couldn’t wait to check out the rest of the resort.

Our first stop was for lunch at Gaby’s By The Lake.

This lakeside restaurant and bar features casual fare and cocktails throughout the day. It has the envious distinction of being the highest grossing restaurant in the entire Ritz-Carlton resort family. Guests are seated at the water’s edge and can enjoy a lovely sunset each evening. We started off with an order of the popular BBQ Pork Nachos which is one of Gaby’s most popular dishes. The pork is slow-roasted in an outdoor cooker and literally melted in your mouth.

Although not on the menu, our waiter recommended we get an order of sweet potato fries. They were crisp and seasoned just right. Other favorites on the menu include a Truffle Chicken Salad Croissant, Smoked Turkey Wrap, the Half Pound Black Angus Burger and Maine Lobster Grilled Cheese. Towards the end of the meal we were visited by the restaurant manager who promised to bring us a plate of his signature spaghetti and meatballs. The recipe goes back to his grandmother; a native of Sicily. We highly recommend ordering it during your stay.

Guests can work off a great meal at Gaby’s through various activities offered on the resort lake. We tried renting a canoe which is a great way to take in the finger lake Ocoee. The canoe rents for $25 per hour.

Some of the other lake activities at the hotel include kayaking, waterskiing, wake-boarding, knee board-

PG 26 • insiteatlanta.com • July 2010

ing, tubing, pontoon boat rentals, Jet Ski rentals and fishing. Guests can also rent bicycles and there are various hiking trails.

The heated waterfront hotel pool is a popular spot among guests. It was packed with all types including families, couples, business associates and groups on get-away weekends. The pool has a lagoon-like feel with an infinity edge and more great lake views. The pool area spoils you as there are plenty of attendants on hand ready to help you with your every need.

The 26,000-square-foot Ritz-Carlton Spa features beauty, body and wellness treatments provided by licensed massage therapists. The Spa is adjacent to the hotel and has 19 private treatment rooms, one couples spa suite, 4 wet treatment rooms- including one hydrotherapy room, ladies and gentlemen’s relaxation areas with lockers and changing facilities, indoor lap pool, saunas, steam rooms, whirlpools, cold plunge and wellness center with movement studio for Pilates and Yoga, fitness classes, relaxation terrace, full-service salon and spa boutique. I tried the 50 minute Gemstone Therapy Massage. It is a special blend of semi-precious oils and balms added to the traditional hot stone massage. It felt wonderful and was so relaxing.

The formal restaurant on the property is the Georgia’s Bistro, which specializes in casual, contemporary cuisine with a distinctive Georgian influence. The menu features simple, clean dishes using seasonally fresh, high-quality ingredients. There is an extensive wine list and signature desserts prepared daily by the pastry chef. The herbs used in many of the dishes at the Georgia Bistro and other restaurants on the property are taken from the lodges own herb garden.

After dinner quests are invited to gather around and make s’mores by the hotel campfire.

Try to save time during your stay for a Segway Tour of the property. Tours are provided by the resort’s own Segway expert, Segway Dave. He was originally a Segway employee but he became so popular at the resort through his demonstrations that he now works for the Ritz Carlton full time. The tours allow guests to see the beautiful sights of Reynolds Plantation. The 90-minute guided tour was definitely the highlight of our trip and we were given a very interesting history lesson about the property and how it developed over the years. We saw the six separate lakeside cottages and a Presidential House with four master suites overlooking the 18th green of the Oconee Club Course. Whenever we zoomed by, guests stopped and waved and it definitely brought a smile to everyone’s face. If you are looking for a unique experience, make sure to check out the Segway Tours.

Overall it is hard to find a more relaxing and rewarding vacation so close to Atlanta. Many have heard about The Ritz-Carlton Lodge but haven’t made it out to the resort. After a stay here you will wonder what took you so long.

MUSIC

THE GHOST WHO STEPPED OUT

Karen Elson Emerges from the Musical Shadow of her Husband, Jack White

BY MATT CONNER

K

AREN ELSON WILL ECLIPSE ALL expectations. The wife of Jack White (yes, that Jack White) faces an uphill climb in the minds of most when it comes to artistic credibility. Shaking the high-profile model story and stereotype isn’t easy.

The proof was in the product, so to speak, on her debut, The Ghost Who Walks. Some questions lingered. Instead, speaking on the intersection of beauty and tragedy, Elson reveals a true artist wrestling with what really matters.

I noticed that one of the songs on the album was influenced by that fantastic book about the Dust Bowl...

The Worst Hard Time, yes. It’s a great book.

same beautiful yet tragic storyline. [Laughs] I’m drawn to those things. When I read The Worst Hard Time, there was just something about that book and the way it’s also written where it’s a brutal portrait of that time, but there’s still so much compassion in the writing. I find that just beautiful.

Life is for many people very hard. I can’t say my own life is hard. I’ve been incredibly lucky as far as my own life is concerned, but just because I’ve had a very fortunate existence doesn’t mean that I can’t empathize toward somebody else’s misfortune and also being curious about other people’s lives and being emphatic towards that. I think some of that made its way into the record.

That was interesting to see as a source of inspiration.

I couldn’t put that book down to be honest.

It’s such a remarkable, tragic, eloquently written account of the Great Depression and the Dust Bowl. I couldn’t put it down. If someone has the guts to make it into a film, and I know there’s Grapes of Wrath, but it could become a beautiful, modern-day look at that time, I guess.

What is it about that intersection that draws you if that’s not a part of your story?

I think if you crack the surface for most people, there’s always a vulnerable side. Even the strongest of human beings have always something that’s vulnerable to them or something that happened in their life to sort of crack them wide open. I’m really interested in those things and those sides of human nature. To me, a good book is one where the powerful person in that book has a moment in their life, a moment of truth so to speak, but it’s a moment that’s powerfully beautiful yet tragic that changes their life forever.

I want to start there because you use those descriptors of tragic yet beautiful or remarkable.

Is that the intersection where most of the media you appreciate resides?

Not necessarily across the board, but definitely as far as music and even good films, I’m definitely drawn to that. I was just watching that film with Richard Gere, Days of Heaven. It’s definitely the

Are you surprised then by the prevalence of superficial art in culture, then? If music has the ability to connect us all at these deeper levels, then why the popularity of escapist art?

Well, I think that’s up to the individual. We all choose what our escape is, be it a morbid one or a hopeful one. Again, it’s just simple human nature.

I have friends who want to watch the most ridicu-

lous comedies and that makes them feel good. In essence, part of daydreaming is escaping, isn’t it?

And I’m a huge daydreamer to the point where it’s annoying. [Laughs] I’m so glad that I finally made this record because I’ve been daydreaming about it my entire life. Mainstream media or escapism...

I’m not anti-that to be honest. It’s whatever floats another person’s boat. It’s not up to me to decide that. I’m drawn to a movie that may challenge me ultimately, but if somebody wants to see a dumb comedy, that’s fine by me. I can completely appreciate that from time to time.

Did anything from that daydream change once you had to get into the studio?

Of course, there’s a lot that changed when I got into the studio. Even when I was writing the songs for the record, I’d written a lot before and

EVEN THE STRONGEST OF HUMAN BEINGS HAVE ALWAYS SOMETHING THAT’S VULNERABLE TO THEM OR SOMETHING THAT HAPPENED IN THEIR LIFE TO SORT OF CRACK THEM WIDE OPEN. I’M REALLY INTERESTED IN THOSE THINGS AND THOSE SIDES OF HUMAN NATURE.

ANGEL CITY OUTCASTS

BY JOHN B. MOORE

I

T’S BEEN A LONG FOUR YEARS SINCE California’s Angel City Outcasts turned in their last record, but it might as well have been a lifetime ago.

With massive lineup changes and a few label issues the band had to take stock, reform and start over fresh. The result is a pretty damn impressive hybrid of punk, metal and classic rock. The new record, self titled in honor of the band’s new start, is likely the best soundtrack in search of a classic spaghetti western.

Guitarists Tak Boroyan and vocalists/rhythm guitarists Alex Brugge spoke recently about the group’s line up, their new sound and starting over.

Your last full length was four years ago. You’ve had some big lineup changes since then haven’t you? Why so many changes? Did you guys part on decent terms?

We have experienced a life-time’s worth of breakups in just a few short years. Every band member

is no longer playing for/with Angel City Outcasts for their own individual reasons. Some former members had received all the satisfaction they were looking for with ACO. Some had obligations that surpassed their own pursuit of happiness, some jumped in head first only to realize that the commitment was more than they expected, while others felt the wear and terror of life on the road was too great. Regardless of the reasons, nothing was connected, nothing was premeditated and as far as I know, no resentment has been harbored.

So in writing this record, did you get a sense that you were starting over again?

Yes. In a lot of ways we felt that this was a chance to take the vision we had to a whole new level. For better or for worse we would have never been able to make this record with the original cast. Actually most of these songs were demoed with the O.G. crew, but it took the chemistry and dynamic of the new members to give this record the life that I personally felt it needed.

I didn’t really use any of them on the record.

The only two that I wrote were “Hundred Years From Now” and “Mouths to Feed,” but they were made for The Citizens Band, so that was much different. The way that I wrote for the majority of the songs on the record I did completely alone and isolated myself. That somehow makes me feel safe, for lack of a better word, while I’m writing the songs. For whatever reason when I turned 30, there was this moment of truth. I’m not in my twenties anymore. I’m a mother of two. I’m married. I live in Nashville. It was all those elements that made this time seem right. I thought, ‘If I’m ever gonna make a record, I’d better not waste any more time thinking and daydreaming about it.’ I had to tackle my daydreaming nature and actually make it real. That was a big challenge, but it felt like all of the elements were right in my life.

How have these changes affected the sound and the focus of ACO? Travis’s (Mason) drumming was one of the biggest changes to the overall sound of the band. He’s a much more precision based drummer and a real heavy hitter. He really brought the big rock drum sound to the record. We were amazed at how quickly he caught up with the old songs in a short period of time and how well he did with the brand new songs during recording. Junior, the rhythm guitarist was another big addition to ACO. He was only 19 when he joined and he’s like the little brother in the band. He is a very instinctive guitarist, a quick learner and always a reliable player on stage. . Overall both new guys did an exceptional job and it really comes through on the record.

I know you had a 7 inch out a couple of years ago, but why did you guys wait so long before putting out another album?

That 7” was a split with our friends the Turbo A.C.s from New York City. It was a small exclusive European release that featured the song “Made For This” from our last record. Needless to say it was never our intention to wait four years to release the new record. Multiple obstacles were responsible for the delay. First and foremost we were touring for around two years on the last record and we’ve never been very good about writing new material on the road. I guess we’re just too busy having a blast.

Is there a common theme to this record?

There are several themes to this record some being more subtle than others. The most obvious one is the prominent Western outlaw imagery and subject matter. I guess it’s sort of akin to the Desperado record by the Eagles albeit a bit more aggressive.

This has been a progressing theme for us since our last album. It’s when we started wearing the cowboy

vests on stage and all that. Since then the band has tuned its image to a more edgy Spaghetti Western aesthetic (More Clint Eastwood and less John Wayne). In the song “Five Guns West” we allude to the notion that some of the old west outlaws had the reputation that rock n roll bands have now.

I know this sounds like an odd question, but why did you decide to self-title this record?

There have been so many monumental changes to the band since the first two records that it felt like it warranted a fresh start, a reboot if you will. It’s the first record without all original members. Also during the making of it we decided to make the band a four piece instead of five (with Alex singing and playing rhythm guitar). The musical direction influenced the decision to self title the record as well. While Let it Ride was a punk record, Deadrose Junction was a transitional record; but this self titled one is a definite rock n roll album. It’s just a different era for us altogether.

Is there a song that you are particularly proud of on the new record?

That is the same as asking a father if he has a favorite son. Every song has its own sense of satisfaction; I guess some could be considered more monumental then the next.

Track 8 (“Wild Hearts”) is the first acoustic, non-hard hitting, non-rock song we’ve ever released. Track 7 (“Hold On”) is the first male and female duet we’ve ever released. Track 6 (“Doghouse Blues”) is the first southern rock, gospel choir inspired song for us. Track 9 (“Lift Me Up”) is the first song I had to have Tak kick me in the testicles during tracking just to hit the notes for the melody. Bottom line is there are a lot of first’s on this record.

PG 27 • insiteatlanta.com • July 2010

MUSIC

LYFE IS WHAT YOU MAKE IT

If prison time couldn’t hold Lyfe Jennings back, heaven knows industry politics won’t keep the soul man’s latest album, I Still Believe, from warming hearts

BY DEMARCO WILLIAMS

I

F LYFE JENNINGS HAD ANY PLANS OF HIS MALE following reaching the size of his female contingent, he’ll probably want to stay away from songs like “Statistics,” the lead single from his summer album, I Still Believe. A frank oratory on the staggeringly low numbers of faithful males in relationships, the song can irk a certain type of guy. But if you think any of that bothers the 37-year-old Ohio native who’s served 10 years of hard time and been at the center of a few internet fiascos, you clearly don’t know Lyfe Jennings. After this candid discussion with the platinum-selling artist with the gruff tone, that will, hopefully, change a bit.

But fellas, if the man’s honest responses strike a nerve, don’t bad mouth us.

INsite’s just the messenger here…

I Still Believe is a powerful title that can be taken in many directions.

Why do you still believe in love?

It’s something different about when you love somebody. It’s good for your immune system. It makes you see stuff differently and petty stuff is not even serious to you. To me, it’s the most powerful thing and I’m sticking to that.

I believe it.

Why do you consider yourself a good teacher in romance?

I don’t even know if I’m a pretty good teacher. I just think that I’m good at telling the truth. I think that a lot of people try and cater stuff to the person that’s listening, ya know, say certain stuff to disguise how they really feel about something. I don’t do that. I just tell it like it is. I feel that even if a cat don’t like it, they respect it and appreciate it.

With young black men, in particular, it doesn’t seem like forming a happy household is a top priority. What’s happening?

I think it’s what we’re exposed to, from television and from radio. There’s not a bombardment of information saying stay together with your family or take care of your kids. There is a bombardment of songs and shows on TV that says black man go out to the club and kick it and mess with as many women as you can and wear big chains. That’s what we see as a result.

Are you going against what the labels want by the types of songs that you do?

I’m proving them wrong, that’s my mission. They’ll say, “Lyfe, you need to be more edgy or whatever.” But I go put the record out myself. I say, “Watch this.” We put out my official first single, “Statistics,” and it’s a positive song, something that they say won’t sell records. It was the No. 1 most added urban mainstream and the No. 1 most added record overall. The record is up 470 spins since [late May] and that’s unheard of for an R&B song. I’m proving’em wrong.

What gives you the motivation to keep it going through adversity?

No. 1, I can’t do nothing else. Something is in me. I do sometimes feel like by now radio would embrace me. But when I go to these youth centers or Boys & Girls Clubs and I talk to these kids, I feel like they really need to hear this [type of honest music] from me. With the prison thing, they just respect what I have to say a lot more. I don’t know if you’re going to get another personality like that for a long time. I gotta give it to them while I can.

me like that. If you’re in that 10% that’s great to these women, you shouldn’t have a problem [with this song]. I know that the 25% that are hatin’ on this song would want their daughters to hear this song. If they don’t, it’s something wrong with them.

That 25% who have beef with the song, what kind of guy is that?

They have no plans for the future. They’re caught up in fashion and what’s hot right now, instead of creating their own path. These are cats that aren’t sure of their own potential. And that’s cool. But just because you’re not sure of your own future, that doesn’t mean you should make it uncomfortable for someone else that’s taking another route.

Outside of music, what are you most proud of?

I’m proud of my kids. I’m proud I’m able to teach my kids, hands-on. I understand the whole development of kids. I also feel blessed that when I leave the game, I feel like I left it better than it was when I came.

It seems like you’re connected to these kids.

I got dogged as a kid by everybody. I’m talking about dogged bad. I know exactly how they feelin’. They tired of hearin’, “Cuz I said so.” A lot of times we treat kids like they’re second-class citizens. We say they bad just ‘cuz they makin’ noise somewhere. I know that feeling all too well. It’s still very, very much in the forefront of my mind and I’m just not havin’ it.

Let’s talk abut the controversial single, “Statistics.”

There’s a lot of controversy around women and their relationships. The song came about and I thought I’d just ride that.

You go hard on guys. How are dudes responding to it?

The feeling is split. About 25% of males are upset about it. They wonderin’ why I’m labelin’ them like that. To me, if somebody is talkin’ bad about thieves, I’m not going to jump up on a podium and say, “Y’all wrong. Y’all shouldn’t be tryin’ to hate on me like that.” I’m not no thief. It don’t bother

ROONEY HAS ITS EUREKA MOMENT The California quartet is now an indie band, boasting a new album of sun-kissed tunes and pop-rock melodies

BY ED MORALES

W

HILE THE MOVE FROM THE O.C. to The Hills doesn’t seem too far a drive, the path band Rooney took between destinations was quite the winding road.

Now an independent band – it shed its major label deal with Geffen Records – Rooney’s quartet of Robert

Schwartzman (vocals/guitar), Taylor Locke (guitar/vocals), Ned Brower (drums/vocals) and Louie Stephens (keyboards) has a new single on The Hills several years after its cameo on The O.C. introduced the pop-rock outfit to a fervent fanbase. The Los Angeles band is sporting a new album (Eureka) and a nationwide summer tour which includes a month of dates with Hanson. Brower, who aside from drumming and singing is also a model and actor, and in January added a new role: father. He sat down to discuss Rooney as it enters its second decade of existence:

You have an album coming out and you’re embarking on a nationwide tour. It’s a pretty good time for the band.

It’s an exciting time. It’s been a little while since we’ve gotten in the cycle again.

Not to mention you had a son born earlier this year.

That’s also been very interesting but in a different way.

How so?

It changes the way I look at things – it’s not completely about me anymore. But you know I’ve always been the caretaker in the band. I’m the eldest. People always ask “Are you like the dad in the band?” and I say “No, I’m like a big brother.” But now that I have a real kid, I’m definitely not their dad. I’ve got problems of my own.

An interesting aspect about Eureka is you were on your own, but of all the Rooney albums this one PG 28 • insiteatlanta.com • July 2010

best incorporates all of the members in writing and producing songs. How did that work out?

It was kind of a tricky adjustment to make. I started getting interested in songwriting again – we were all in different bands where we were the band leader – but we work great as an ensemble. Robert is a great songwriter, but the other guys are capable also. As far as the production, we learned a lot from all the different producers we’ve worked with. This was a chance to finally take all the knowledge we accrued and put it together. We were trying out different producers and not getting the sound that we wanted – it always seemed to be too slick or too raw – and with this record we captured a good balance of the two that presents the songs in the best way.

Were there any songs you struggled with?

No it all came together easier than we thought. We were kind of fighting a little bit and not going great before we started the record. We started to work with John Fields, who produced our last record and he’s a great guy and producer, but he has become really popular since we made our last album. He’s had a huge string of successes in the pop world and was really into that, and we were growing more toward wanting to be a band – an ensemble where you can hear the band – and that was the polar opposite of the way he has grown as a producer so it wasn’t working. We were struggling internally because I think he wasn’t helping mediate very well. Then we worked with a guy named Mitchell Froom and cut a song with him, and he had the total opposite effect – he embraced the band and enjoyed working with all of us and it was a good

experience and it brought us together. We decided to try and make our own record because our demo production was getting really good. The moment with Mitchell Froom was important – it set us on the right trajectory to get together and make a record.

And this was all done in what was formerly a garage, so Rooney is back to being a garage band again.

Literally. I spent so much time in the garage in the early years – we worked in one for the first three years – but it feels good, it’s not overkill. We have all the equipment we need and acquired a lot of great gear over the years. We started collecting that stuff early before it became cool and expensive and now we all keep a studio at home.

The story of Rooney is a good one to tell up-andcoming bands. A decade in, and as a first person witness to what happened, what ‘s the best thing you’ve learned after all these years in the business and what would you tell new bands.

We made plenty of mistakes, we try and learn from them, but you have to make sure you have a good team around you. People only care as much as you do about the details. We tried to do all the merchandise ourselves and we finally are working with a good company and they’re really doing cool shit for us.

Sometimes you need to let go and sometimes you need to hold on tight . . . What we’ve always wanted to do was put out music frequently and then tour a little while and then put out more music. I think that’s important these days, but we’ve never been able to do it because there’s been so much politics surrounding the band with the big companies and expectations.

But I’m hoping we can keep on, and that can be the key to our future. In some ways it feels like we’re right back in the beginning now that we’re out on our own.

It’s really exciting – and a little scary.

SPORTS

PITCHER PERFECT Even if Atlanta Braves ace Tim Hudson isn’t invited to

the 2010 MLB All-Star Game, we shouldn’t overlook the stellar season he’s having away from the diamond

BY DEMARCO WILLIAMS

E

NOUGH ALREADY ABOUT Stephen Strasburg, Ubaldo Jimenez and Roy Halladay. Okay, we get it. Every five days they grab the ball and make complete fools of the National League’s finest hitters. But if you’re only focusing on ESPN highlights, you’re missing out on a fine season from right in your own backyard. A robust 7-2 and owning the NL’s sixth best ERA at press time, Atlanta Braves hurler Tim Hudson is proving to be quite the example for the team’s young aces Tommy Hanson and Jair Jurrjens. But even more impressive than Hudson’s achievements on the mound; with Oakland and Atlanta Tim has 155 career wins, two one-hitters and has been in the top 10 in season strikeouts three times, may be the things he and his wife Kim do off of it with the Hudson Family Foundation (www.hudsonfamilyfoundation.com), a not-for-profit organization that helps families with children who have physical and emotional issues.

How did the Hudson Family Foundation idea come about?

I had just gotten hurt. I just had my [Tommy John] surgery. I was doing all my rehab. God only knew if I was going to play again. I didn’t know if I was going to play again. It was just one of those things.

I was 33 years old and just had major surgery. [A charity] is kind of a big venture to take on when you don’t know where your career is going to go.

Obviously, it was going to be a pretty substantial donation from us to get this thing started. After

that, who knew how supportive the community was going to be just ‘cuz the economy was so bad.

You guys do extremely good things with families who are struggling with medical bills for their children. Talk about the gratification you get from helping out.

We feel really good when we see a family in need and we’re able to help them. We see how much they appreciate it and [see] the impact it’s making. As opposed to giving $80,000 in grants and just hope it does good. We come across a lot of families in hospitals. It’s just so heart-wrenching. You hear about the dad losing his job because he had to be at the hospital three weeks out the month with his kid.

Any parent is going to spend every waking moment they can with their sick child. Unfortunately, the consequences are that mortgages get behind. Jobs

PLEASE SEE HUDSON ON PAGE 30

PG 29 • insiteatlanta.com • July 2010

Batter Up!

Erotic Fantasies Found at Inserection

HUDSON CONTINUED FROM PAGE 29 are lost. Travel is expensive. Hotels are expensive.

There’s just so much of a burden on these families and these parents the last thing they need to worry about is where is the money going to come from to pay the rent or light bill. It’s stuff like that where I feel like we can help out a lot through our foundation.

Some may have questioned the timing of the Foundation’s birth, but you’ve always been one to defy odds, right?

Growing up, I was always the small kid. I was never the best player on my team, but I knew from an early age that I had a talent to play baseball. But not only that, I was blessed with a love and a passion for the game. I grew up in a humble household.

My dad worked every day of his life. He and my mom did everything they could to raise us right. For me, it was just a drive early on to be successful.

What makes the Braves one of the teams to beat this season?

I think our starting pitching is one of the best, if not the best, in the game. You can say what you want about the Yankees. You can say what you want about the Phillies. I know what I can do when I’m healthy. I feel very confident in hoping to have one of the best years of my career. I’m excited. Our defense is playing good. I think, with our pitching and defense, we’re a team that a lot of teams don’t want to see come to town.

Nobody wants to see Braves phenom Jason Heyward come to town. What were your first thoughts when you saw the guy bat?

I’m telling you, he is a stud. I saw him last year at spring training. I was amazed that this kid was going to start at A ball [in 2009]. I was like, “Why don’t you put him in the AAA and call him up in a month?”

That was my view. He’s so good and he’s such a talent, you almost have to baby those guys along. You don’t wanna give him too much at one time.

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SPORTS

FANATIC

A Monthly Sports Wrap-up

BY DEMARCO WILLIAMS “I’m shocked. I’m so proud of our guys.

Unbelievable. Clint [Dempsey] made a good run in the middle, the ball fell to me…Time kind of stopped. You can’t miss from there.’’ –USA STRIKER LANDON DONOVAN, after scoring the lone goal versus Algeria, making the US tops in a World Cup Group Round for the first time in 80 years Next season, ALABAMA will face six SEC opponents who will have an open week right before facing the Crimson Tide. The SEC has acknowledged the schedule is out of whack, and efforts were made to change the schedule around, but when it was all said and done, nothing could be changed around. Alabama fans are right to think this will have a significant impact Landon on Bama’s pursuit of back- Donovan to-back SEC titles.

If you missed the epic John Isner (US) vs. Nicolas Mahut (France) second round WIMBLEDON match from June 22-24, shame on you.

Easily the longest match in tennis history at over 10 hours, the triathletes posing as tennis players shattered records for most games in a set, games in a match, individual and total aces over the three-day affair. But the record that simply blows Fanatic away is the number of bathroom breaks between the two—just one! Craig Boynton, Isner’s coach, showed an equally resilient bladder, not getting up until 43-42 in the marathon fifth set. “[But] I had to go from 7-6,” Boynton said.

With the NBA DRAFT complete, the League’s focus now goes squarely onto LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, Dirk Nowitzki, Amar’e Stoudemire and all of the other free agents out there. If one of the aforementioned names changes addresses, NBA powers will alter somewhat. If two or more move, we’re going to need restraints to handle all of the shifting. If you throw in big names like Chris Paul, O.J. Mayo and Elton Brand who’ve been rumored in recent trades, things could get very, very interesting.

With all of that said, here are the five all-star caliber players who’ll likely get new jerseys this summer: 1) Chris Bosh, 2) Stoudemire, 3) Joe Johnson; 4) David Lee; 5) Elton Brand.

“It’s clear the fans don’t want four preseason games.

It’s clear the players don’t want four preseason games. They tell me that all the time. You ask them that question and they’ll tell you. And we really don’t need it to make the game better. So we have to evolve just as we did a couple of decades ago when we went from six preseason games to four.” –NFL COMMISSIONER ROGER GOODELL, on the thought of altering the NFL season from 16 regular season games to 18, eliminating two preseason affairs in the process The symbolic halfway point of the MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL season is the July 13 All-Star Game in Anaheim. With that mark being here, we might as well dish out a few midseason accolades: MVP (AL-Miguel Cabrera, Detroit; NLAdrian Gonzalez, San Diego), Cy Young (AL- David Price, Tampa Bay; NL- Ubaldo Jimenez, Colorado), Rookie of the Year (ALAustin Jackson, Detroit; NL- Jason Heyward, Atlanta), Manager of the Year (AL- Ron Washington, Texas; NL- Bud Black, San Diego).

“My intention was that if we won the second time, to go for a threepeat would be natural. It would be tough not to go for another championship in that threepeat realm, which is ridiculous. That’s one of those things that’s sitting out there that’s still a fly in the ointment.” –LA LAKERS COACH PHIL JACKSON, contemplating retirement after winning his 11th NBA title And finally…

Washington pitching phenom Stephen Strasburg had an MLB-record 41 strikeouts over his first four outings… Over the historic, 10-hour IsnerMahut Wimbledon clash, Isner’s second serve still averaged an impressive 112 mph… Since 2003, St. Louis’ Chris Carpenter has won 75% of his starts…

U.S. Open winner Graeme McDowell shot a final round of 74, which is just one stroke off the highest final total at the Open since World War II… With Troy Glaus’ walk-off home run for Atlanta on June 19, he became just the 13th player ever to hit walk-offs for four franchises (L.A. Angels, Arizona and St. Louis).

Must-See TV step aside and let the heavy hitters have at it.

2. Yeah, MLByeah.All-Star Game (July 13, 8PM, FOX) The all-star game is popularity contest. So?! It’s still awesome watching Joe Mauer stare down a Roy Halladay heater.

3.While British Open (July 15-18, TBA, ESPN/ABC) officially tagged “The Open Championship,” we’ll just call it a weekend of golfing bliss at famed St. Andrews.

4.Though Atlanta at New York (July 10, 4:10PM, FOX) many thought the Mets would duel with the Phillies in the NL East, the feisty Braves have taken to this winning stuff.

5. Haven’t Indiana at Atlanta (August 1, 3PM, NBA TV) seen the first-place Dream’s super combo of Angel McCoughtry and Iziana Castro Marques play? Now is your shot.

Top 5 Games This Month

1. Team World Cup (July 11, 1:30PM, ABC) USA was ecstatic to get to the Knockout Round. For this last match, however, they’ll

PG 31 • insiteatlanta.com • July 2010

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