INsite Atlanta December 2014 Issue

DECEMBER 2014

INSITEATLANTA.COM

VOL. 23, NO. 5 FREE

Events & Attractions New Year’s Eve Parties!

The

Holiday Issue

PLUS

Mick Fleetwood, Mike Tyson, Ziggy Marley & Holiday Movies

PG 2 • December 2014 • insiteatlanta.com

CONTENTS • DECEMBER 2014 • VOLUME 23, NO. 5

ASO | 11.20/22/23 | guests

Atlanta’s

Entertainment Monthly

INTERVIEWS 06 Dave Koz 12 Mike Tyson 12 Paul Reiser 19 Ziggy Marley 19 Reformed Whores 20 Rob Lynch 20 The Color and Sound 21 Mick Fleetwood

06

DEC 11/13 Thu: 8pm/Sat: 2 & 8pm

Christmas with the ASO Norman Mackenzie, conductor Morehouse College Glee Club Gwinnett Young Singers ASO Chorus

FEATURES 08 10 11 14 16 22 25 26 26 26

04 05 05 06 07 13 14 14 15 18 24

DEC 19/20 Fri: 8pm/Sat: 2 & 8pm

Holiday Dining Video Game Guide Holiday Gift Guide Holiday Movies Holiday Events Christmas Traditions Holidays in Orlando NCAA Playoffs Naughty Gift Guide NCAA Preview

COLUMNS Around Town On Tap On A Dime Events Station Control Under The Lights Movie Reviews Track Suits Home Releases Album Reviews Road Warriors Favorite Things

concerts

A Very Merry Holiday POPS!

10

Michael Krajewski, conductor Reginald Smith, Jr., actor Members of Cirque de la Symphonie John Lemley, Santa All-City Chorus, Kevin Hill, director

ON SALE aso.org NOW!

404.733.5000 |

Presented by:

Holiday concerts are made possible through an endowment from the Livingston Foundation in memory of Leslie Livingston Kellar.

12

19

www.insiteatlanta.com STAFF LISTING Publisher Stephen Miller steve@insiteatlanta.com Managing Editor Bret Love bret@insiteatlanta.com Art Director / Web Design Nick Tipton nick@insiteatlanta.com Sports Editor DeMarco Williams demarco@insiteatlanta.com Local Events Editor Marci Miller marci@insiteatlanta.com Music Editor Lee Valentine Smith lee@insiteatlanta.com

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Contributing Writers / Interns: Jon Latham, Ryan Loftis, Rodney Hill, Alex S. Morrison, Steve Warren, Dave Cohen, Jennifer Williams, Matt Connor, Ed Morales, Sacha Dzuba, David Weinthal, Benjamin Carr, Kalena Smith, Justin Patterson, John Moore, Amanda Miles, Patrick Flanary, Ian Coverdale CONTACT US 130 West Wieuca Road, Ste. 111 Atlanta, GA 30342 website • insiteatlanta.com ADVERTISING INFORMATION (404) 308-5119 • ads@insiteatlanta.com 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 2014, Be Bop Publishing, Inc. All Rights Reserved

DECEMBER 2014

INSITEATLAN TA.COM

VOL. 23, NO. 5 FREE

Events & Attractions New Year’s Eve Parties!

The

Holiday Issue

PLUS

Mick Fleetwood, Mike Tyson, Ziggy Marley & Holiday Movies

Check out our Holiday Events Guide on apge 16! insiteatlanta.com • December 2014 • PG 3

Around Town

Holiday Happenings and Events in December

THROUGH JANUARY 4

DECEMBER 4 - 21

Lenox Square Mall

Theartical Outfit

Macy’s Pink Pig

The Gifts of the Magi

land's premier tenors. The Dublin-born tenor became a professional singer by the age of 12 when cast in his first opera with the National Concert Orchestra of Ireland.

This intimate evening of holiday music supports KSU’s Retiree Scholarship Program. paulbyromatlanta.brownpapertickets.com

rink is up through February 15. This unique, trackstyle rink offers a magical winter atmosphere to skaters. Dazzling lights and holiday décor will have skaters dreaming of a white Christmas. Also happening at Atlantic Station, Santa is available for photos at Lobby Bar & Bistro. Visit atlanticstation.com

Just in time to kick off the holidays Macy’s Pink Pig ride is back! It takes places beneath a 170-foot, 1950’s themed Pink Pig Tent at the Lenox Square Mall upper-level parking deck near Macy’s. Atlanta’s most “pink-tacular” train ride travels along train tracks to carry children and parents through a life-sized storybook that includes the original Pink Pig and other holiday friends. Visit macys.com/pinkpig

It is Christmas, the season of giving, but for young penniless lovers Jim and Della, the prospects are bleak. Each valiantly struggles to find the perfect gift for the other. Meanwhile, forgotten man Soapy comically attempts to get thrown in jail for a free meal and place to sleep. Characters “City Him” and “City Her” join in the hustle and bustle of cold 19th Century New York. Visit theatricaloutfit.org

THROUGH JANUARY 11

THROUGH DECEMBER

THROUGH DECEMBER 30

Fernbank Museum

Centennial Olympic Park

Callaway Gardens

DECEMBER 20 & 21 Celtic Christmas The Rialto Center

World Of Coca Cola

Winter Wonderland

Atlanta’s Museum of Natural History is decked out with two floors of twinkling, beautifully decorated trees showcasing celebrations around the world in the enchanting Winter Wonderland exhibition. More than 30 trees and other displays recognize the diversity of celebrations, holidays, traditions and events from around the world.

Visit fernbankmuseum.org

DECEMBER 6 - 31

Madeline’s Christmas Horizon Theatre

This holiday season will be unlike any other for Madeline and her friends. While on their morning walk with Miss Clavel, the girls come down with the flu, and as they take to their bed, many wonder if they will be able to go home for Christmas. With the arrival of a mysterious stranger, Madeline and the other girls get a holiday adventure beyond their wildest dreams.

Explore new holiday exhibits “Coca-Cola Christmas Around the World” and “History of the CocaCola Santa.”

Pemberton Place is decked out in twinkling lights and larger-thanlife ornaments.

Send a surprise to friends and family by requesting a personal invitation to the World of Coca-Cola from the Coca-Cola Polar Bear himself. Visit worldofcoca-cola.com

DECEMBER 14

Christmas from Dublin KSU Center

Paul Byrom is often hailed as one of Ire-

Fantasy In Lights

Celebrate the solstice season with a host of fiddlers, harpers, pipers, singers, dancers and poets from the Irish, Scottish, Welsh and Appalachian traditions in this magical annual event. A family tradition for many, guests return year after year to experience the “soul of the season” through the music of the ages. Visit rialtocenter.org

THROUGH DECEMBER 31

Snow Show / Ice Rink / Santa Atlantic Station

Atlantic Station becomes a modern day Winter Wonderland this holiday season.

Experience a real snow fall in Central Park!

Shows take place during the month Monday-Thursday: 7:00 pm Friday & Saturday: 6:00, 7:00, 8:00 & 9:00 pm Sunday: 6:00 pm.

A 10,000 square-foot open air ice skating

For fifty years Alexander’s Of Atlanta has been making Atlanta’s holidays extra special. We’re proud our uncompromised level of service has been trusted by generations and understand our commitment to the highest quality products is expected. We are part of the community and always here to serve you. Happy Holidays.

alexandersofatlanta.com 404-634-3197

•

IN TOCO HILL SHOPPING CENTER

PG 4 • December 2014 • insiteatlanta.com

Fantasy In Lights is a spectacular light and sound show, with 8 million lights, 15 displays, a Christmas village, and Santa Claus at Callaway Gardens. Woodland displays depict such holiday scenes as the March of the Toy Soldiers or nature themes such as Snowflake Valley. Two beach scenes with moving lights tell the stories of ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas and the Nativity.

Named by National Geographic Traveler as one of the “Top 10 places to see holiday lights.” Visit callawaygardens.com

On Tap this Month MAJOR EVENTS COMING TO ATLANTA

Through January 19: Centennial Olympic Park

ICE SKATING RINK

Downtown Atlanta’s ice rink invites kids of all ages to strap on their skates at Centennial Park. e rink of theatrical lighting and holiday music. Hours are: Monday through ursday 4:30pm – 10:00pm; Friday 4:30pm–11:00pm; Saturday 10:00am - 11:00pm; Sunday 10:00am – 10:00pm. Admission is $12.00 per person for a 90-minute session (includes skate rental). Visit Centennialpark.com

December 11: Philips Arena

BLACK KEYS

e Black Keys make a stop in Atlanta on their North American tour. e tour coincides with the release of their new album Turn Blue. Rolling Stone Magazine calls them “…the best, most consistently gripping album the Keys have ever made…Turn Blue is as apocalyptic, in its way, as that Clash epic [London Calling]: loaded with risk, distress and payoff.”

Visit Philipsarena.com

December 19 - 22: Philips Arena

MARVEL UNIVERSE LIVE!

"Marvel Universe LIVE!" brings more than 25 Marvel characters together on one epic quest. e story is framed around the battle over the Cosmic Cube, the source of ultimate power and one of the most feared and coveted treasures in the Marvel Universe, that has been shattered into pieces by the Mighty or in order to prevent it from falling into the wrong hands. Visit Philipsarena.com

December 30: Philips Arena

HAWKS VS. CLEVELAND CAVALIERS

e Hawks look to avenge the loss from their earlier meeting in Cleveland as LeBron James and company make their first Atlanta visit of the 2014/15 season. e game is likely to be a sellout. Both teams find themselves in the middle of the pack in standings for the Eastern Conference. e Hawks are looking to prevent the Cavaliers from moving up in the division with a signature win. Visit Atlantahawks.com

December 31: Georgia Dome

CHICK-FIL-A PEACH BOWL

EVENTS HAPPENING FOR SMALL CHANGE IN ATLANTA

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

By Marci Miller

EVENTS HAPPENING FOR SMALL CHANGE IN ATLANTA CHILDREN’S MIGHTY MO & MORE! Know of a CHRISTMAS low cost event happening?

Event@AtlantaOnADime.com Monday, December 22, 7:30pm PARADE

By Marci Miller Saturday, December 6, 10:30am From 16th Street to 5th Street SUNDAY IN THE PARK Midtown Atlanta choa.org/parade Sunday, October 5 12:00pm – 6:00pm Free Event Requested, 3 & Under Free $5 Donation Historic Oakland Cemetery With floats, giant helium-filled balloons oaklandcemetery.com

and marching bands, the Children's Christmas Parade will be Cemetery the largest reconnects holiday paHistoric Oakland rade inVictorian the southeast. with its roots withAlong Sundaywith in thea television audience of more than 500,000 Park. For the 34th year, Atlanta oldest pubviewers on WSB-TV, hundreds lic cemetery invites supporters andofthethoucusands spectators will be lined along rious of alike to experience livingup history the streets eagerlyVictorian awaitingcostume the arrival of demonstrations, conbeginning of the holSanta and the official tests, carriage tours and free walking tours.

A children’s will feature crafts, iday season inarea Atlanta.

Bleacher seatsoldand fashioned with gamesSanta and the traditional Teddy Breakfast tickets available for Bear Tea. Proceeds from Sunday in the purchase.

Park benefit the Historic Oakland Foundation.

CHRISTMAS CAROL CONCERT

Friday, December 5, 7:30pm, Morehouse OAKHURST ARTS AND MUSIC Saturday, December 6, 7:30pm, Spelman FESTIVAL Sunday, December 7, 6:00pm, Morehouse Saturday, October 11Event 10am – 7pm Free morehouse.edu Free Harmony Park, Oakhurst oakhurstartsandmusicfestival.com is beloved holiday tradition is held an-

nually on three nights early in December. e concert 16th Annual Oakhurst Arts chorus & Music e features a combined of Festival will take place at the center of the both the Morehouse and Spelman College Oakhurst in alternation Harmony Park. with Glee Clubscommunity presented in Events and features include 5K Arts selections from each individuala Glee Club Run/Walk, local artists, live musical peras they perform specialarea arrangements of featuring Deformances, community Christmas anthems, spirituals, and catur-basedcarols, nonprofit groups, free activity African songs. Over people area for children, parade7000 and food andcome bevfrom all over the southeast each year erages at Oakhurst's many restaurants.to attend. Concerts are presented free of charge as a gift of music to the community.

The Fox Theatre foxtheatre.org Free Event STONE MOUNTAIN

HIGHLAND Join the fun at GAMES an organ concert and sing-

October 17the - 19, 9:00am – 5:00pm along with Fox eatre's organist in res$15 per Larry-Douglas adult, $5 per child (agesalong 6 – 12) with idence Embury Stone Park Double playing the guest Mountain organist Ken smhg.org Mighty Mo organ. e movie “Home Alone” will be shown immediately followRegale the spiritere of Scotland at be thesnow Stoneon ing theinconcert. will also Mountain Highland Games.

Outdoor Peachtree Street and inside the Foxfesand tivities Highland athletic photosinclude with Santa. e Fox will beevents, acceptdancing, piping, andand Scottish ing donations fordrumming Toys for Tots the AtHarping.

Join in for Scottish country danclanta Community Food Bank. ing demonstrations, Kirking of the Tartans, Clan Challenge, and the Parade of the TarCHICK-FIL-A BOWL tans.

See the Clan and Tartan information tents along with many colorful Scottish PARADE & FANFEST shops.

VehicleDecember entry to Stone Wednesday, 31 Mountain Park is $10 for a one-day permit.

Parade, 1:00pm – 2:30pm Free

Fan Fest, 2:30pm – 6:30pm, $17 adult

ELEVATE 2014 Georgia World Congress Center

October 17 – 23 Free cfabowl.com Various locations throughout Downtown is bowl Atlanta tradition features colorful elevateatlantaart.com themed floats, classic cars, cheerleaders, mascots, award-winning marching bands, ELEVATE 2014 features public art dance groups and more. einstallaparade tions, music and dance performances, launches at the intersection of Peachtree gallery andStreet eclectic art inat Street exhibits and Baker andstreet concludes various venues throughout downtown the Georgia World Congress Center, Atleadlanta such asthe Gallery 72 andBowl Woodruff ing fans into Chick-fil-A FanFest.

Park.

Participating and get organizaFootball fans of allartists ages can into the tions include Branden Collins, e Goat spirit of ACC vs.

SEC competition with atFarm, and La Passante which is co-spontractions such as receiving, passing and sored by France Atlanta. kicking games, obstacle courses and rock climbing walls.

BROOKHAVEN CHILI COOK-OFF OWL-O-WEEN Saturday, October 11 12pm – 6pm Free Saturday, October 25 & Sunday, Oct 26 THREE KINGS HANUKAH MENORAH Apple Valley Road, Brookhaven $12 per adult, $5 forDAY children ages 3-12 DIA DE LOS REYES Kennesaw LIGHTING brookhavenchilicookoff.com Kennesaw State University,

Sunday, January 4, 1:00pm-5:00pm December 16, 17 & 18, 5:15 – 6:00pm, owl-o-ween.com is freeZaban familyPark, friendly festival takes place Atlanta History Center MJCCA Dunwoody in the heart of Free Brookhaven. atlantahistorycenter.com Free Festival Event Spooktacular Hot Air Balloon atlantajcc.org Event e festival is

features crafts, kid zone and cornhole. ere be lots of food offerings All are will invited to celebrate three funincludnights ingHanukah chili & brunswick at the JCC. stew Each tastings night willwith feaof 60+ Hanukah chili & stew teams. will be ture songs with Awards Rabbi Glusman given forby topthe amateur followed lightingteams, of therestaurant Hanukah teams, most spirited team and Free people's Menorah and live performances. jelly choice. donuts and hot chocolate will be served. is event is free and open to the community. Bring your family and friends.

is a 2-day family friendly event, featuring amazing Trick-orKick off theBalloon New YearGlows, with the ree Kings Treating, Tethered Balloon Rides, Harvest Day Festival held in collaboration with the Beer Tents,Consulate Vendor Marketplace, Sportsde Mexican and the Instituto Bar, ArtistCome Market, Amazing Food Trucks,of Mexico. learn about this tradition Roving Entertainment, Interactive our southern neighbors through Kid's storyArea, a Main Concert Stage, and more! telling, music, live performances, complimentary food and other fun activities. Free event does not include museum admission.

Hanukah Menorah Lighting

December 16–18 • atlantajcc.org

Now one of the country’s top six bowl games, the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl is blasting into the new playoff era with the promise of some of the post-season’s best football. With the College Football Playoff Selection Committee assigning Atlanta’s bowl game the top-ranked teams from the country’s top conferences and a National Semifinal every third year.

Visit cfapb.com for tickets information.

December 31: Downtown Atlanta

PEACH DROP 2015

Start 2015 off right at the Southeast’s largest New Year’s Eve gathering. 175,000 patrons will crowd the streets around Underground Atlanta for Peach Drop New Year’s Eve 2015. An 800-pound peach will descend from its 138-foot tower of lights to its resting place, where confetti will shower over attendees and dazzling fireworks will light the sky and mark the beginning of 2015. Visit Peachdrop.com

RECEIVE UPDATED EVENTS WEEKLY. SIGN UP BY EMAILING RECEIVE SUBSCRIPTIONS@ATLANTAONADIME.COM UPDATED EVENTS WEEKLY. SIGN UP BY EMAILING SUBSCRIPTIONS@ATLANTAONADIME.COM ENTER ON THE THE SUBJECT SUBJECTLINE: LINE:SIGN SIGNME MEUP UPINSITE! INSITE! ENTER ON insiteatlanta.com • December 2014 • PG 5

HOLIDAY

Station Control

SEASONAL PROGRAMMING

BY BENJAMIN CARR

A

T THIS JOYOUS TIME OF THE year, our regularly scheduled programming takes more of a break than it once did. Now programming on regular shows is so used to checking out for a month after November sweeps that we now receive “Fall Finales” of our favorite shows.

By the time December rolls around, we’re out of “Scandal” and “How to Get Away With Murder.” And we’re left with very little new programming - but lots of holiday favorites.

The best of 2014’s new offerings will probably be the new “Toy Story” holiday special, “ Toy Story that Time Forgot,” airing on ABC and ABC Family throughout the month of December and available on demand. This is the second “Toy Story” holiday special, this one featuring Trixie the Triceratops and other dinosaurs and cavemen in a central role. Woody, Buzz Lightyear and Jessie the Cowgirl are also back, voiced by Tom Hanks, Tim Allen and Joan Cusack.

“Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas” will be shown regularly, alongside the newer Disney animated specials “Prep and Landing.” “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer,” a holiday favorite that now has an official stage adaptation running at the Center for Puppetry Arts, and “Frosty the Snowman” will also air.

In terms of regular series doing holiday specials, “Glee” has been benched until the New Year giving viewers a break from another awkward holiday episode.

“Nashville,” though, is releasing a very good holiday soundtrack and will likely have an accompanying episode to promote it.

BY LEE VALENTINE SMITH

Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas

“Castle,” also, is doing a holiday-themed murder mystery.

For adults, expect lots of programming that resemble bad fruitcake or lumps of coal.

The holiday movie marathons currently airing on cable channels like Lifetime or The Hallmark Channel - which have been spewing out vanilla, Christmas-colored romantic comedies since Halloween, only serve to remind viewers that former primetime actresses like Jessalyn Gilsig (“Angels and Ornaments”), Sarah Lancaster (“Fir Crazy”), Alicia Witt (“A Very Merry Mix-Up,” “Christmas at Cartwright’s,” “A Snow Globe Christmas”) have mortgages to pay. These movies provide a thousand variations on a Harlequin holiday romance novel.

Luckily, on Christmas Day, TBS will provide us with their annual “24 Hours of A Christmas Story,” the best holiday programming for at least a decade now. I’d rather watch Ralphie shoot his eye out than watch Lacey Chabert find a kiss under the mistletoe or Kristin Chenoweth find hunks for a holiday calendar. And I think I speak for everyone in regard to that.

CDs! LPs! Blu-Rays!

IN

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TOWN CENTER 50 Barrett Parkway at Bells Ferry Road next to Barnes & Noble 770-425-3472

e Magazine sit

Best of Atlanta 2014

at all three locations!

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CHECK US OUT ON FACEBOOK! CD WAREHOUSE ATLANTA

E

VERY DECEMBER, FOR THE past 17 years, smooth jazz saxophonist Dave Koz tours the country with his band and rotating roster of friends, playing his annual Christmas show. His holiday album The 25th Of December (Concord Records) is arguably the best new holiday release of 2014. The all-star recording features Koz along with guests Stevie Wonder, India.Arie, Johnny Mathis, Gloria Estefan, Trombone Shorty, Jonathan Butler and more. The easy-going Koz spoke with INsite just before a rehearsal for the tour.

There’s something intrinsically healing about Christmas music. It just doesn’t seem like “work,” to be able to go out on tour with it.

I enjoy going out on tour in the holiday season because people are in a good mood, they get dressed up, they’re ready to be taken away and hear something new. We’ve been doing this so many years, I’ve seen kids grow up, right before my very eyes. Families come back year after year and I’m honored to be part of the tradition.

how vivid the memories are when you hear the music. I love to take people on that journey, whether it’s on an album or at the show.

You close out the record with “All You Need Is Love.” Excellent choice, but how did you decide to include it?

To my knowledge, it had never been recorded as a Christmas song. Jonathan Butler showed it to me, with a great arrangement by Jeff Lorber.

After we did it, it felt like it would be a great way to wrap up the album. Almost 50 years after The Beatles made it famous, as cliché as it sounds, it seemed so appropriate for a simple song about love to close out the Christmas set. Then we thought, to bring it forward, instead of having just one singer, let’s do it almost “We Are The World” style, with that message of unity, and everyone adding to it.

And what a great idea to bring Stevie Wonder in for the final vocal.

To have him on there, for the last half of the song, and take it home, everything just came together perfectly. Especially seeing as he’s the epitome of And you have a great new love that’s walking on planet at album to tour with this year. this moment in time. I think it’s It was an absolute pleasure a good message. It may not be to make. To be side-by-side a “hit you over the head with December 3 at 8p.m. with some of the most iconic Christmas”-type message, but voices of our time, allowed me Cobb Energy Center I think as far as remembering to explore different areas of cobbenergycentre.com what life is all about, that’s the my musicality. I was amazed song that reminds us of the that all these people gave of importance of love. It keeps us themselves so selflessly to be moving forward and hopefully involved in this. But that’s what Christmas does. it’ll be a good foreshadowing into the New Year Something about Christmas music brings out ahead. the best in people.

DAVE KOZ AND FRIENDS

It must be a delicious dilemma to create a new Christmas album, from all the possible choices.

This is your third one now, but does it get more difficult to pick the set each time?

This is technically my fifth Christmas release, though it’s the third full-length. I thought maybe the choices of good songs would run out, but you know what? I could do five more without redoing anything. The brilliance and joy of the songs, there’s just so many. Now, if I wanted to do a Hanukkah album, I’d be struggling a bit.

Now Buying & Selling

PG 6 • December 2014 • insiteatlanta.com

ALL YOU NEED IS KOZ Jazz legend Dave Koz offers the season’s best tidings

WWW.CDWAREHOUSEATL.COM

DULUTH Pleasant Hill at Satellite Blvd Behind IHOP 770-623-1552

HOLIDAY

When was the album recorded?

In June, we cut the basic tracks and did all the overdubs next and we were finally finished in mid-July. So, from start to finish, it took about six weeks, which is a ridiculously quick process.

But we didn’t rush through anything. I credit the whole thing, squarely on the shoulders of [producer] Ricky Minor. He’s like the hub of the activity and then boom, next thing you know, it’s done. I’ve had projects that took a year, but this went so fast and with all these guest artists.

Is it hard to get into the holiday spirit in the middle of summer in a Hollywood recording studio?

It is a challenge sometimes to get in the mood. You have to kind of suspend reality for a moment and the music helps to create the vibe. Even though it was 90 degrees outside, the minute we started playing, it really felt like Christmas. That’s because the power of holiday music is different than other music. They’re more than just songs, they’re like time machines.

You listen to something and you are back to the smell of your grandmother’s cooking or seeing your mom’s Christmas stocking. It’s amazing

Now, to put you on the spot, what are you five all-time favorite Christmas songs?

I’ve got about five hundred! But to narrow it down to just five, I guess I’d have to say: 1. “The Christmas Song,” Nat “King” Cole 2. “Sleighride,” Ella Fitzgerald 3. “O Tannenbaum” Vince Guaraldi Trio 4. “It’s The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year” Johnny Mathis 5. “Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas” Frank Sinatra

SOMETHING ABOUT CHRISTMAS MUSIC BRINGS OUT THE BEST IN PEOPLE.”

Under The Lights

Tickets

HOLIDAY SHOWS ON STAGE

s as low a

IT’S A WONDERFUL LAUGH

$18

Now Through Dec. 20 Hertz Stage Box Office (404) 733-5000 AllianceTheatre.org

The award-winning Dad's Garage Ensemble will be parodying the quintessential Christmas story It's a Wonderful Life. You'll see your favorite characters acting in ways that might not be so familiar as Dad's Garage improvisers create a whole new holiday experience right before your very eyes. Every evening the audience will choose a new "invader" (who is a complete surprise to the cast) to infiltrate the world of George Bailey and Bedford Falls. What would Christmas be like if George never existed and say Beyoncé came to town? It's up to the cast to keep the story on track, and things are guaranteed to get crazy!

RUDOLPH THE RED-NOSED REINDEER

Through Dec 28 Puppetry Arts Puppet.org (404) 873-3391 Directed by Jon Ludwig and based on the stop-motion animated television special, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer is a timeless tale of acceptance that rings in the most wonderful time of the year. Through

the use of rod and body puppets, Hermey the Elf, Yukon Cornelius, the Abominable Snow Monster and all the other merry misfits join Rudolph and Santa for an unforgettable holiday adventure.

choose

You

SANTALAND DIARIES

Now Through December 31 Horizon Theatre (404) 584.7450 HorizonTheatre.com Horizon Theatre Company is in holiday cheer as it reprises its popular production of The Santaland Diaries by award-winning satirist David Sedaris. Adapted from David Sedaris’ best-selling book Holidays on Ice, this holiday tale is a modern classic made famous when it aired on National Public Radio. The play borrows from tales during his stint as a Macy’s Department Store elf named Crumpet.

This rebel without a Clause recounts in halarious fashion the true-life story of an out-of-work writer as a Macy’s Department Store elf.

! invader

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Dad’s Garage invades the Hertz Stage in a parody of It’s a Wonderful Life —where the audience plays a part of each night’s invasion.

Dinner & Show with TAP

On Thursday and Saturday evenings, one low price of $44* gets you a ticket to see It’s a Wonderful Laugh featuring the Dad’s Garage Ensemble at the Alliance Theatre and dinner at TAP (1180 Peachtree St.).

7:30 p.m., 8:00 p.m., and 10:30 p.m. performances!

As a healthy young female, you have the power to give the gift of life and love.

You can help a couple build the family they’ve dreamed of by donating your eggs...and receive $7,000 for doing it! Donation is completely confidential and health screening is provided at no charge. If you are a non-smoking female between the ages of 21 and 31 and are interested in more information about egg donation, please visit our website or e-mail us at

donor@ivf.com

November 28–December 20

By The Dad’s Garage Ensemble Directed by Kevin Gillese

Tickets @ 404.733.5000

alliancetheatre.org/wonderfullaugh Plan your holiday party | 404.733.4690

Series on the Hertz Stage

*Available on Thursday & Saturday evenings for 7:30 and 8:00pm performances (11/29, 12/6, 12/16, 12/11, 12/13, 12/18, 12/20). Not to be combined with other offers and not valid on previously purchased tickets. Subject to availability.

Gratuity and alcohol not included. No late seating on the Hertz Stage.

Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs

insiteatlanta.com • December 2014 • PG 7

HOLIDAY DINING

Catering, Private Parties and Great Holiday Fare at Atlanta Restaurants Copeland’s of New Orleans

Bhojanic Indian Restaurant

and catering menues. Their one of a kind award winning biscuits are the perfect addition to any holiday function.

Call the catering hotline or The Flying Biscuit website for details.

Decatur 404.633.9233 Buckhead 404.841.8472 Catering Hotline 404.702.8301 bhojanic.com

Horseradish Grill

3101 Cobb Pkwy 770.612.3311 1142 Barrett Pkwy770.919.9612 copelandsatlanta.com

Copeland's is the home of the New Orleans Jazz Brunch Buffet. For a limited time through December 24 they are offering a Holiday Lunch Buffet during the week.

Copeland's catering offers party pans with large take out portions of your favorite Copeland's dishes. Platters are centered around their signature Cajun Fried Turkeys and Holiday Honey Hams.

Copeland’s catering can be ordered online at CopelandsAtlanta.com.

Agave

242 Boulevard 404.588.0006 agaverestaurant.com

4320 Powers Ferry Road 404.255.7277 horseradishgrill.com

The Horseradish Grill in Chastain Park is the oldest continually operated restaurant in the greater Atlanta area. They offer classic southern dishes in a rustic yet sophisticated setting. The private dining facilities are perfect for any gathering or celebration. The Garden Room is located on the main level of the restaurant and seats up to 20 guests. The Grill Room is located on the lower level of the building and offers a separate entrance while secluded from other diners. Call the restaurant to make a reservation.

Chin Chin

Recognized as one of the “Top 100” restaurants in Atlanta and the “Best Southwestern Cuisine” Agave is where to celebrate with friends and family over the holidays. Agave has two beautiful dining rooms as well as an enclosed heated patio. The rooms can accommodate parties from 6 guests to 100 and are available for private party bookings. Now for the holidays they are offering a free $100 Gift Card with $200 Gift Card Purchase. Gift cards may be purchased online at agaverestaurant.com.

The Flying Biscuit Cafe’

Candler Park 404.687.8888 Midtown 404.874.8887 flyingbiscuit.com Catering 404.849.2283

The Flying Biscuit’s Midtown and Candler Park (original) locations are ready for the holidays with new dinner

3887 Peachtree Rd. 404.816.2229 Multiple Locations chinchinatlanta.com

Voted Atlanta’s favorite Chinese restaurant again in 2014, Chin Chin offers fine dining that won’t break the bank. They have several locations around metro Atlanta, each with the same great flavor, healthy portions and elegant décor. Chin Chin is available for private parties and their menu can accomodate catering orders large and small.

Fat Matt’s Rib Shack

1811 Piedmont Ave. 404.607.1622 fatmattsribshack.net

Atlanta’s favorite barbecue joint also caters! Barbecue lends itself perfectly for catering and where better to go than Fat Matt’s. They can accomodate parties of up to 50 or more. Call their Catering Hotline 678-457-0275.

Bhojanic serves authentic Indian fare and offers full service holiday catering including the food, quality paper dinnerware, tablecloths, serving supplies, and HotBox (to keep your food hot for hours). Bhojanic has a standalone catering business so they can accommodate any function. For those looking to book a holiday party or for private dining, Bhojanic recently opened a new location in Buckhead at Shops Around Lenox.

Baldinos Giant Jersey Subs

80 Powers Ferry Rd. 770.321.1177 5697 Buford Hwy. 770.455.8570 baldinos.us

Let Baldinos Giant Jersey Subs take the stress out of catering your holiday party. They have something for everyone from their assortment of famous subs to deli salads by the pound, cookies by the dozen and iced-tea by the gallon.

Throw a great event that won’t break the bank. “It’s always a party when you invite Baldinos.”

Johnny’s Pizza & Subs

1810 Cheshire Bridge Rd. 404.874.8304 johnnyspizza.com

Johnny’s Pizza has come to be synonymous with great pizza and subs in Atlanta. They specialize in NY Style pizza, which is thin in the middle and thick around the edges. Johnny’s offers plenty of specialty pizzas plus subs, salads, sandwiches and other popular Italian dishes including calzones, strombolis and lasagna. Go to their website to find the location nearest you.

agave restaurant agave restaurant an eclectic southwestern eatery

an eclectic southwestern eatery & tequila bar . est. 2000 & tequila bar est. 2000 Reservations at 404.588.0006 Reservations 404 588 0006 online at at: : ororonline www.agaverestaurant.com www.agaverestaurant.com 242242Boulevard S.E.Atlanta Atlanta 30312 Boulevard S.E. . 30312

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HOLIDAY GIFT CARDS ARE BACK!

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WINNER!

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Buy a $200 Gift Card and get a $100 Gift Card for FREE! Purchase online at agaverestaurant.com

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Best of Atlanta 2014

PHOTOS BY MARK PETKO

WINNER!

Consistently Voted One Of Atlanta’s Best Restaurants BOOK YOUR HOLIDAY PARTY WITH US! INsite Magazine Best of Atlanta Winner

PREFIXED MENUS & PRIVATE ROOMS AVAILABLE Best Southwestern Cuisine & Best Margarita !!

PG 8 • December 2014 • insiteatlanta.com

4320 Powers Ferry Road I Atlanta 4 0 4 .2 5 5 .7 2 7 7 • h o r s e r a d i s h g r i l l .c o m

Tacos & Tequilas is a family-owned authentic Mexican restaurant offering traditional recipes passed down through generations.

Here you’ll find all your Mexican favorites – tacos, enchiladas, fajitas, burritos, quesadillas and more.

Even the drink menu is authentic and includes 100 different brands of tequila.

Both locations offer private dining rooms for holiday parties as well as full catering menu.

Twin Peaks

3365 Piedmont Rd. 404.961.8946 twinpeaksrestaurant.com

Twin Peaks is more than just great views. The mountain lodgestyle sports restaurant features high-quality comfort food and an extensive selection of draft beers. This is a great place to get together with friends over the holidays.

They have private rooms that can be booked and a lively rooftop patio adorned with the beautiful Twin Peaks Girls.

Sotto Sotto

313 N. Highland Ave 404.523.6678 sottosottorestaurant.com This cozy award winning Italian restaurant in historic Inman Park has been voted best in Atlanta by too

Sotto Sotto offers an intimate dining room perfect for the the holidays. Their celebrated menu is accompanied by an inspiring allItalian wine list. Call ahead for reservations.

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650 Ponce de Leon Ave 678.705.5955 4279 Roswell Rd. 404.705.8225 tandtatlanta.com

many publications to mention. Their kitchen strives to create authentic Italian food flavors developed from centuries of Italian culinary traditions.

IN

Tacos and Tequilas

2014

WINNER!

Mediterranean Grill

N. Decatur Plaza 404.320.0101 Midtown 404.917.1100 East Cobb 678.996.0045 mediterraneangrill.com

BOOK YOUR HOLIDAY PARTY AT BHOJANIC

Recently voted Best Mediterranean cuisine again in 2014, Mediterranean Grill is the place in Atlanta for authentic Mediterranean food. For more than a decade their loyal customers have continued to flock to this family/chef-owned and operated restaurant. Here you will find regional dishes like gyros, falafel and kabob sandwiches that are perfect for holiday parties large and small. Mediterranean Grill has a special catering menu that can be found on their website or at their restaurants.

The Elder Tree

469 Flat Shoals Ave. East Atlanta 404.658.6108 eldertreeatl.com

This European-style Irish pub is more than just a meeting place to watch football both in the U.S. and across the pond.

The Elder Tree serves great gastro fare within authentic Irish tradition. Come meet up with co-workers and toss back a few pints at the bar, there are 13 European beers on draft, or book a holiday party. A full catering menu also is available.

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www.CopelandsAtlanta.com www.CopelandsAtlanta.com www.CopelandsAtlanta.com insiteatlanta.com • December 2014 • PG 9

HOLIDAY VIDEOGAMES The Hottest Titles of the Season

BY BRET LOVE

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leap tall buildings in a single bound). But the speed is insane and the relentless kill frequency frustrating, making this better for run-and-gun experts than casual gamers.

IKE MUSIC, MOVIES AND TV before it, the video game industry is changing at lightning speed.

Now that anybody can download an app to their phone or play on social media for free, platform developers have to step up their game if they want to continue charging $50+ a pop. To some degree they have, enlisting top-notch actors such as Kevin Spacey (Call of Duty: Advanced Warfare) and Anson Mount (The Evil Within), upping the production values, and creating vast open worlds for gamers to explore.

But of course there are those companies who seem more interested in cranking out limp sequels in their quest for a quick buck before the whole industry goes digital.

Here’s our take on this season’s crop of high-profile platform games:

DESTINY (Activision) Platforms: PS3, PS4, X360, XOne Made by the creators of Halo, this ambitious space opera is a first-person shooter RPG that must be played online, but with MMO its weakest element.

Players are cast as Guardians, defending the ruins of our solar system from various evil enemies. Destiny looks and plays like a dream, but the storyline and alien races are barely explained and the MMO communication leaves a lot to be desired.

Great idea, but mediocre execution.

Hopefully the expansive world will improve over time.

ASSASSIN’S CREED: ROGUE (Ubisoft)

THE EVIL WITHIN (Bethesda)

Platforms: PC, PS3, X360 Set during the French & Indian War, this story follows Shay Cormac’s transformation from Master Assassin to Assassin Hunter after a mission goes awry.

The open-world gameplay is vast and varied, veering from icebergs in the North Atlantic to the American frontier, as well as New York as it looked in the 18th century. It’s arguably the best story of the entire series, not to mention a helluva lot of fun to play.

ASSASSIN’S CREED: UNITY (Ubisoft)

Platforms: PS4, XOne Unity was rightfully slammed for being riddled with bugs and requiring the download of a companion phone app to complete certain tasks. But the updates and patches released in late November improved the game considerably. The next-gen graphics show stunning sights of Paris during the French Revolution, and the storyline recalls the series’ beloved early titles. But this will be best remembered as a cautionary tale about releasing titles before they’re ready.

CALL OF DUTY: ADVANCED WARFARE

(Activision) Platforms: PC, PS3, PS4, X360, XOne Arguably one of the greatest firstperson shooters of all time, the COD franchise has been accused of resting on its laurels and delivering more hype than ROI. Advanced Warfare certainly has style, making the most of next-gen graphics, crafting a killer campaign and adding new elements (see: exo suits that allow you to PG 10 • December 2014 • insiteatlanta.com

Platforms: PC, PS3, PS4, X360, XOne Coming from Shinji Mikami, creator of the Resident Evil series, The Evil Within is a minor masterpiece for fans of survival horror.

Players are cast as Detective Sebastian Castellanos, trying to catch supernatural psychopath Ruvik in a haunting, hallucinatory world filled with deadly creatures and diabolical traps.

This is grim, gory, gruesome stuff.

Despite buggy issues and extreme difficulty, the immersive, oppressive atmospheres make for riveting play.

FAR CRY 4 (Ubisoft)

Platforms: PC, PS3, PS4, X360, XOne Far Cry 4 ups the ante of its predecessor with incredible drop-in/drop-out open world co-op play. Players are cast as Ajay Ghale, who finds himself in the middle of a civil war in the Himalayan country of Kyrat, where oppressive dictator Pagan Min reigns with an iron fist. The vast open world is spectacular, the mythology-rich storyline immersive, and the weapons and gadgets (gyrocopter, wing suit, etc.) seemingly limitless.

Easily among our favorite games of 2014.

FORMULA 1 2014

(Codemasters) Platforms: PS3, X360 You don’t have to be a racing fan (I’m not) to enjoy the pulse-pounding action, razor-sharp handling and dynamic renderings Formula 1 2014 offers. The game reflects the recent rule changes in the sport, including new turbocharged power units and new aerodynamics, which place more

emphasis on racing skill and control. It also includes the new Russian Grand Prix and the return of Austria’s Spielberg circuit, as well as all the new team changes. It’s arguably the most realistic racing sim we’ve ever played.

GRAND THEFT AUTO 5 (Rockstar) Platforms: PS4, XOne A year after its release, Rockstar’s most ambitious GTA title is finally available for PS4 & Xbox One. The sprawling city of Los Santos is filled with D-list celebs, self-help gurus and assorted freaks, with players cast as former street gangster Franklin, ex-con Michael, or violent psychopath Trevor. The world is massive, the graphics are stunning, and the characters are batshit crazy, with pulling off grand heists the name of the game.

JUST DANCE 2015 (Ubisoft)

Platforms: PS3, PS4, Wii, WiiU, X360, XOne Not much has changed about Just Dance over the years. As usual, players try to match the moves on the screen, but the new Challenger mode (compete against friends or your previous performances) and expanded online multiplayer mode offer some gameplay variation. The song selection is better, with modern hits from Ariana Grande, Iggy Azalea and Pharrell alongside classics like “Walk This Way” and “You Spin Me Round.”

LEGO BATMAN 3: BEYOND GOTHAM

(Warner Bros) Platforms: 3DS, PS3, PS4, Vita, WiiU, X360, XOne

What makes the entire Lego video game franchise so damn addictive? I have no clue, but Beyond Gotham continues their winning streak by pairing the Caped Crusader with his DC Universe pals in an intergalactic battle to save Planet Earth from evil genius Braniac. The increasingly complex levels offer surprising challenges for a family-friendly title, and the great characters and voice acting compensate for occasionally repetitive play.

NHL 15 (EA Sports)

Platforms: PS3, PS4, X360, XOne With the everpopular FIFA, Madden and NBA Live franchises, EA Sports has all but cornered the market on team sport video games.

That fact only makes NHL 15 all the more disappointing. The biggest problem is that there are only minimal changes to last year’s game, including a new soundtrack and commentary team. But other than that and a slight upgrade in the collision physics, it’s basically NHL 14 in a new $60 package.

PAC-MAN & THE GHOSTLY ADVENTURES

(Bandai Namco) Platforms: 3DS, PS3, WiiU, X360 Last year’s Ghostly Adventures was the best Pac-Man title in decades, rebooting the character in a fun-filled 3D platform that recalled Banjo-Kazooie. The sequel is similarly entertaining, bringing the animated TV show to life with new friends and enemies, new worlds (one set in outer space, another in prehistoric times), and new power-ups.

It’s basically a Super Mario game, but starring a different ‘80s gaming legend.

See Video Games on page 23

Holiday Gift Guide

Your Neighborhood Pizzeria!

SHOP DECATUR

VisitDecaturGeorgia.com Do your holiday shopping in the city of Decatur! Enjoy special in-store events, discounts and treats at Boutique Karma, Vivid Boutique, and Makan (Asian comfort food), just a few of nearly 40 participating shops and restaurants during Terrific Thursdays Dec 4, 11, 18.

ALEXANDER’S OF ATLANTA

Toco Hills • 404.634.3197 AlexandersofAtlanta.com Alexander’s reputation of providing the highest quality fine jewelry and customer service continues with Zander, world-class timepieces. Swiss components assembled in the USA by master craftsmen produce an uncompromised level of quality. Zander is available exclusively at Alexander’s and features a lifetime battery warranty. #shoplocal

CD WAREHOUSE

Duluth (Pleasant Hill) • 770.623.1552 Town Center (Barrett Pkwy) • 770.425.3472 Roswell (Alpharetta Hwy) • 770.518.3300 CDwarehouseatl.com CD Warehouse buys and sells Blu-ray, Video Games, DVD’s, CD’s and Vinyl. They offer a great selection of hard to find and new releases like the latest from Mary J Blige. With over 10,000 CD’s you should find what you’re looking for. If not, they will order it for you.

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Best of Atlanta 2014

2927 N. Druid Hills Rd. (Toco Hills Shopping Center) 404.355.3547 • Nearlynewshopatl.org The Nearly New Shop, operated by The Junior League of Atlanta, serves as the cornerstone of the community offering great inexpensive clothes. They have you covered this winter with hundreds of coats and jackets.

WINNER!

Multiple Atlanta Locations: www.JohnnysPizza.com

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holiday happenings all around Decatur this December

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insiteatlanta.com • December 201411:26 • PG 12/1/14 AM11

COMEDY

TV

MYSTERY OF MIKE TYSON REISER REVISITED The Former Heavyweight Champ on His New Adult Swim Show

BY ALEX S. MORRISON

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EMEMBER SCOOBY-DOO, THE classic Saturday morning cartoon about four teenagers and a cowardly Great Dane who drive around in a hippie van and solve mysteries?

Replace those “meddling kids” with the Ghost of the Marquess of Queensberry (Jim Rash), his adopted Korean daughter (Rachel Ramras) and a former heavyweight boxing champ, and you have Adult Swim’s new animated show Mike Tyson Mysteries. Oh, and lest we forget, there’s also comedian Norm MacDonald as a talking pigeon who used to be a man.

Tyson and producer Hugh Davidson recently spoke with media to promote the series, talking about the inspiration of Scooby-Doo, how much the show will reflect Tyson’s real-life persona, and the secret to successfully reinventing one’s career.

Where do you get all these story ideas from?

HUGH DAVIDSON: They pretty much come from me. Since it’s like an old-fashioned mystery show, it seemed good to veer away from those being too complicated.

Being a simple thing is good for more grounded comedic elements to work. And then, on the writing side of it, we try to save the crazy for the end.

MIKE TYSON: It’s crazy from the beginning.

It’s the perpetualness of craziness.

DAVIDSON: That’s true, too. But hopefully, there’s a turbo boost of crazy, at the end. You should know the relationships and understand what is happening, before too much crazy stuff happens.

Mike, what can you say about your persona in this cartoon? Will you be making fun of yourself at all?

TYSON: Well, [Hugh] is making fun of me because he wrote it. When they first approached me about the project, I was a little apprehensive because the pay wasn’t much and the concept was really odd. What was I going to do? And I had no idea what Adult Swim was. At first, I thought it was a bunch of old, rich senior citizen white guys, learning how to swim in an exotic lake. So, I had no idea, but I was educated.

DAVIDSON: We had written it so that Mike was going to say Cormac McCarthy in a crazy way, each time. He said Cormac McCarthy perfectly, but he kept saying Chupacabra in new and different ways, every time, and that became much funnier.

How did they originally pitch the show to you?

TYSON: They asked me to do a cartoon, and I’d never done a cartoon. At the height of my career, cartoon people wouldn’t have touched me with a thousand-foot pole. I’m down on my deepest luck and now they’re like, “Hey, Mike, you wanna do this?” I’m getting all these deals now, and I don’t know if it’s sympathy, but I get a lot of things. I thought, “Why not try to have a cartoon?”

PG 12 • December 2014 • insiteatlanta.com

Was Scooby-Doo an inspiration?

DAVIDSON: Yeah, and maybe more than an inspiration. It kind of is Scooby Doo, just with some different people.

TYSON: Instead of a dog, we have a pigeon that’s inebriated most of the time. And Velma is Korean.

Are we going to see how Mike Tyson came to be hanging out with the pigeon and the ghost?

DAVIDSON: We should, if we’re responsible.

That seems like the thing we ought to do. I’ll take that under advisement. I’m not sure that will happen in the first season. I think you get the feeling that Pigeon is from way back in Mike’s past.

TYSON: If you know the history of the Marquess of Queensberry, his son was the love of Oscar Wilde, the great poet and writer. His father put Oscar Wilde in jail in England, which is so bizarre. I believe that, in one of those episodes, we’re going to have to ask him to forgive Oscar for having this affair with his son.

Now, it’s a different era and same-sex marriages are cool.

Eventually, he’s going to have to look at himself, which is going to be so hard. Can you imagine someone from 1890s England having to forgive Oscar?

What’s to come during this first season?

DAVIDSON: Mike goes to IBM in one episode and in another Mike goes to the moon.

TYSON: I compete with Big Blue for a chess match and in the other I’m a serial killer for astronauts.

Mike, how are you enjoying voice acting?

TYSON: Anything that helps pay the bills, I love it. Anything that makes people happy, I’m happy with that. I’m very excited to be doing it. I never thought I’d do this stuff.

When you were boxing, could you ever have imagined you’d be doing Broadway, or all of these other things?

TYSON: I never wanted to do anything else but fight, when I was a kid. I never had any broader perspective of my own perspective. I didn’t know anything about anything else. I just wanted to fight until I could fight no more, and then I wanted to own a bar and drink and tell war stories. Now, I do movies and shows, and I don’t talk about fighting anymore. So, that plan didn’t work out well.

Mike, what’s the secret to successfully reinventing yourself?

TYSON: You spend the first part of your career just fucking it up. And then you realize you messed it up so bad that you take the second part and clean it up. That’s basically how it happens.

I was a young kid, just living that life. And then, I realized that I had to grow up. If you’re not humbled in this world, this world will thrust humbleness upon you. That was a good learning experience for me.

Mike Tyson Mysteries airs on Monday nights on Adult Swim.

Comic Actor-Musician Paul Reiser Happily Returns to his Stand-up Roots

BY LEE VALENTINE SMITH

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CTOR/COMIC/AUTHOR PAUL Reiser is perhaps best known for his star turn in NBC’s Mad About You series in the early ‘90s, but his career-defining roles in the films “Diner,” “Beverly Hills Cop,” and most recently in the hot new “Whiplash” have made the self-effacing actor and writer a household name. Additionally, roles in the new FX series Married as well as Amazon’s upcoming Steven Soderbergh-helmed vehicle Red Oakes have further cemented his impressive credentials. But Reiser has never abandoned his early ‘80s roots as a standup comic and his current live tour reaffirms his commitment to unscripted comedy.

Calling between shoots for the upcoming film “Concussion,” Reiser filled us in on his current events.

Tell us about “Concussion.”

Well, I like to call it my movie that Will Smith is in, also. No, I have this little part in this huge Will Smith movie. It’s all about the controversy in the NFL denying or not denying the connection between playing football and possibly hurting your head. I don’t see how anyone would think you’d get hurt, banging your head against a 300 pound guy. It’s a true story, based on this guy in Pittsburgh who stumbled upon the research, about an ex-Steeler with a head injury. He naively mentioned it to the NFL, thinking they might want to know about it. They said, “We don’t know what you’re talking about, there’s no such thing.” I play one of the doctors the NFL push to negate and discredit his work.

and I write one?” Literally, that night we went into the studio and wrote some stuff. I was just sitting at the piano, but he knew what to do with it. Suddenly it was a track and he assembled the best studio musicians out there in L.A. and I went, “Look at that, it’s a song!”

Do you still love the immediacy of the club audiences over any other type of performance?

It’s like nothing else. Because the people are right in your face and they’re really savvy about how to laugh at stand-up. In a club you get to try out and experiment. The thrill of that is something you don’t get anywhere else.

I’d forgotten, with TV and movies you have to pitch it, Your current film December 5 & 6 you have to sell it, you have “Whiplash” has just 8 & 10:30p.m. to do all of these things. In exploded. And there’s Oscar stand-up, there’s none of talk and everything.

The Improv that. You think of something It’s gotten great reviews theimprovatlanta.com funny, you write it down, and it’s a really small movie and say it that night. If you but it’s really kickin’ it. I play don’t like it, you can change it Miles Teller’s father, and he’s tomorrow. a drummer, gets into a really good music school and his mentor is a really sadistic guy, J.K. Simmons, who pushes him to be the best. When was the last time you played Atlanta?

I don’t think I’ve performed in Atlanta It’s really emotional. You wouldn’t think it, if since the ‘80s, but I was there in 2005 when you saw it on paper. A guy plays the drums and his teacher is mean? How is that a movie? I had this movie called “The Thing About My Folks.” We did a little film festival there Trust me, it’s unbelievable. and I was doing some promotion. Suddenly, they had a hole in the schedule from 12 to 4.

It’s an extremely busy time for you.

I said, “Hey, are the Braves in town?” They Yes it is. About two years ago I started made a call and came back and said, “We doing stand-up again suddenly these nice got ya some tickets in the President’s box.” roles start coming along. It’s just like when It was President Carter! And he was sitting I started 30 years ago, I was a stand-up, first there. So I’m sitting next to the President! and foremost, then I’d get these lovely sideHe was awfully sweet and took a picture and benefits and nice roles would come along. couldn’t have been more of a gentleman, not Now here it is again. And a lot of people didn’t even know I that do stand-up because I surprisingly. So that’s gonna be tough to beat when I come back. haven’t done it in so long.

PAUL REISER

And a lot of people don’t know that you do music as well. Tell us about working with [award-winning procucer/musician] Don Was. It was sort of a happy accident. When we were doing Mad About You [in 1992], a couple of weeks before we aired, we still didn’t have a theme song. I happened to bump into Don Was when I was travelling with Helen Hunt and doing publicity. We started chatting and he said, “Why don’t you

Was he aware of who you are?

He seems like the kind of guy who is just as kind-hearted and open with everybody. I think his secret service might have leaned-in and said, “This idiot used to have a TV show.”

He might have said that. Now, put this in the paper and maybe he and Mrs. Carter will come down to the show. And put in there, if they’d like to come down, seats and drinks are on me! Free diet beverage of their choice and I promise, if he comes, I’ll keep it clean.

FILM

INTO THE WILD Movie Reviews

Bear Grylls On Celebrities, Survival & Running Wild

BY BRET LOVE

I

ANTARCTICA: A YEAR ON ICE (PG) DEVELOPED MY LIFELONG LOVE

1/2  of the outdoors as a boy. My parents and With more penguins more grandparents tookthan me Madagascar backpackingand in the whiteness than a Republican rally, Antarctica is a Appalachian mountains and to our rustic cabin visual spectacle few of us will ever see in person. on Lake Hartwell, where I learned to set up Anthony that beauty camp, fish,Powell start acaptures fire (andenough cook onofit), forage to wild makeberries his documentary worth seeing,respect and his for and, most importantly, usebeauty of time-lapse photography makes it more the and bounty that Mother Nature has a projected coffee-table book. He overdoes tothan offer. itOnoccasionally withWith scenes Running Wild Bearinvolving Grylls, thepeople, but watching the snowscapes British adventurer does the same and thingskyscapes evolve is breathtaking. he shot the with some of the world’s Powell biggestsays celebrities. film over ten years while working down there It’s thrilling to watch a nervous Ben Stiller year-round.

In awinters, when the sun doesn’t rappelling down mountain on Scotland’s Isle rise for four months and there’s “no way out” of Skye, a terrified Tom Arnold conquering his for of six,heights he’s onebyoftraversing fewer thana tree 700 people spread fear over a 50overdrop 30 permanent in Zac the summers, foot in Oregon,bases, and awhile boyish Efron when to thesee suna wild doesn’t set for fourCatskills. months,But the stoked beaver in the population swells to even somemore 5000.interesting We meetis a what makes the show fewrare, of these men, although the honestpeople glimpse– itmostly offers of these stars Powell metoverwhelmed and marriedbyChristine, his wife, emotionally the challenges of there. Another woman says sheinlikes Antarctica pushing themselves to the limit some of the world’s areas. becausemost “Webeautiful have notwilderness had the opportunity to Grylls– a former reservist the British mess it up very much yet.”in That’s as close as Special Forces who later climbed the film gets (SAS) to politics.

There’s no mention Everest and change crossedshrinking the Norththe Atlantic and and of climate land mass the Passage in of anwhy inflatable notNorthwest even an explanation peopleboat– are “not recently to us about thea seal showthat’s via cell allowedspoke to interfere” to help likely to phone from a little covethe offwater. the south coastnot as die struggling to reach Powell’s of England. interesting as he thinks he is but his egocentric narration tapers off and lets us enjoy the scenery Where didcurious the ideahumans for Running WildAntarctica come and the who call from? you did popular episodes homeI–know at least temporarily. of Man Vs Wild with Will Ferrell and –Steve Warren Jake Gyllenhaal. Has this concept been germinating in your mind ever since?

THE BABADOOK (NR) Yes. Those Man Vs Wild shows [with guest  stars] havehalf been successfulmay all around The first of very The Babadook be the the most world.

Once we were done with that effective form of birth control yet show, devised. I we wanted to revisit thiswho format. knew it to can’t imagine anyone seesWe it wanting was that worked and, for me, it’s (Noah just havea format a child.

Six-year-old Samuel’s really fun because you get to know people andan Wiseman) insidious behavior may seem like it’s such a good dynamic.

So it was exciting omen, but don’t blame the devil for what the getting throughcalls all thehishealth and safety hoops. schoolmaster “significant behavioral Not a lot of it is planned, so that was quite problems.” Maybe it’s the bedtime stories his awidowed mountainmum, for us toAmelia climb before even reads (Essie we Davis) started.

But NBC helped us through that, and him that have Samuel obsessed with monsters, fought a few of those battles. especially Mister Babadook. But if he’s just another in a long line of imaginary monsters, You lot of experience dealing whyhave doesaAmelia see him too?

As shewith becomes these harsh climates and wild places. But is increasingly disturbed, you have to wonder who it a lot of responsibility to take someone who was crazy first, the chicken or the egg. By the doesn’t have experience in dealing with these second half you’ll think no child who sees this conditions? movie want to When have aI’m mother.

Yes, it’swould a nightmare! on my Writerdirector Jennifer Kent comes up with some new own I’ve got nothing to worry about apart twists on a seemingly worn-out genre, although she often fails to make it look like the humans and the monster are in the same space. Is the explanation supernatural or psychiatric? The lack of easy answers may leave some viewers unsatisfied but there should be enough shocks to keep them happy, and there are enough departures from the norm to keep me happy.

The young star delivers on all the extraordinary demands made of him and Davis at times will make you think Jessica Lange has migrated to Australian Horror Story.

–Steve Warren

FORCE MAJEURE (R)

1/2 Whether it’s the future of film or a one-off, I’ve never seen anything quite like Force Majeure.

It has a lot of scenes, especially early on, that will make theatrical viewers long for a Fast Forward button. It’s been called a comedy but I laughed more at Dumb and Dumber To – and I didn’t laugh much at that. Workaholic Tomas (Johannes Bah Kuhnke) takes a break to spend

from keeping myself alive. It’s definitely more challenging you’re taking somebody a few days when at a ski resort in the French Alps who’s doneEbba nothing this before. got with wife (Lisalike Loven Kongsli)You’ve and their to think for them a lot of theavalanche time. But creates it’s beena two children.

A near-miss exciting to be able take these away. the marital crisis whentoTomas runsguys off, leaving Iothers love seeing come aliveThe when they’resense to fendthem for themselves. children facing terrain big challenges, both tensiondifficult and fear theirand parents are divorcing, emotionally and physically. helpingthe and Ebba humiliates TomasIt’sbygreat describing people overcome fear of event to everyonethat, theywhether meet. it’s It’s ahard to tell heights snake orRuben whatever it is. is just trying whetherordirector Ostlund to be different or has a reason for some of the Were of trainingcrying jag thingsthey he given does, any fromkind a five-minute beforehand to prepare them? to playing classical music whenever someone When ittheir comes to training, we said, brushes teeth.

We’re so used to Hollywood “You’ve just gotus to details bring two a big that spoon-feeding andthings– explanations bag of fortitude and a big backpack full of is the starvation Ostlund offers as an alternative enthusiasm– and we’ll do the best when painful. There’s even a “Hollywood ending” at we’re out there.

The thing it is style one point, but ”it’s notfun done in about Hollywood that too prepared, you know?

We and they’re it’s not not the end.

Force Majeure is Sweden’s wing it together, and you see them on camera submission for the Foreign-Language Oscar, so learning making mistakes, someoneand must like it more thanand I did.that’s the fun real part of it. The only training–Steve I did with Warren any of them was with Zac, because I wanted to skydive with GAMES: him. So IMOCKINGJAY– gave him some THE HUNGER training for a couple of hours the day before.

PART I (PG-13) But beyond that, everyone else just arrived 1/2  with that fortitude and enthusiasm, and I said, I’ll concur with the consensus that Mockingjay “We’ll do it altogether. ” I is the low point so far in the cinematic quadrilogy based on Suzanne Collins’ literary Of all the places you’ve been, what’s the place trilogy, but the first two films set the bar high that you connect with the most? enough that a slight dip is far from fatal. Yes, Home! (Laughs) A lifetime of doing this has dividingmeCollins’ final (so far)isbook series taught two things.

One that Iindothelove the puts most of the talk in Part I and saves most adventure. I love being out there. It’s where of action forand Partit’s II;where but what a cast toattalk Ithe come alive, I perform mythe talk! IJennifer remains overkill casting best. love theLawrence wildernesses we’ve gone to for a genre as Katniss here But around the film world, and it’s Everdeen, such a privilege. promoted to “the face of the revolution” that’s going away a lot has also taught me the value spreading through all the districts of Panem of home. You know, I’ve got a lovely family, (played by young Georgia).

Captured by the Capitol, with three boys.

It’s the greatest driving Peetawhen Mellark force I’m(Josh up a Hutcherson) mountain orhas in abecome jungle– a the government’s poster Katniss shining light making me boy; workbut hard to getstill out loves him and wants to rescue him.

Gale of there in one piece.

Hawthorne (Liam Hemsworth) remains by her side, their ever so gradually People lookfriendship up to youlooking as a survival expert. platonic.

Then there’s Julianne Moore Isless there a particular teacher that you would joiningfor Donald Woody Harrelson, credit givingSutherland, you the most survival Elizabeth Banks, Jeffrey Wright, Stanley Tucci knowledge? and thetolate Seymour Hoffman, who Well, bePhilip honest, I don’t feel like I’m a has the ironicexpert. line, “Anyone be replaced. ” (Not survival When Ican started off doing Man you, PSH.) It wouldn’t if The Hunger Vs Wild, I felt like morematter of a survival expert Games had declined likemilitary.

TwilightThat’s (it hasn’t!). because I’d just left the whereIfI you’re hooked onsurvival the seriesskills. you won’t miss this learned all of my But the more one; not you’re not more going Itorealize start here. of thisif I’ve done, the that I’m Warren a jack of a lot of things, but a master–Steve of very little. Every day I meet better climbers, better INTERSTELLAR (PG-13) The thing about skydivers, better survivalists.

1/2  me is that I’ll always work damn hard, I’ll I didn’t love Interstellar but it impressed me. The plot isn’t quite as schmaltzy as the trailers make it look – there’s a good balance of heart and head; more of each, in fact, than just about any three other movies this year combined. Astronaut Matthew McConaughey (bucking for another Oscar) is pulled out of retirement because he loves his kids and Earth may not last for another generation, so someone has to find a place for humanity to relocate. He gets connected with a secret project through apparently supernatural means (oddly, that doesn’t seem to bother him or anyone else). Ultimately there’s a scientific explanation which may seem absurd to us, but I can imagine someone in the distant future watching the movie and wondering how director and co-writer Christopher Nolan figured it out so far ahead of everyone else.

Kubrick did the “hardware porn” first and better in 2001: A Space Odyssey, but Nolan still makes it look awesome, especially in Imax.

The biggest negative is Hans Zimmer’s score (which will probably win an Oscar because it’s

THE WILD IS VERY REVEALING. YOU GET TO KNOW PEOPLE IN A WAY THAT YOU NEVER DO OTHERWISE, BECAUSE THEY’RE UNCOVERED AND VULNERABLE. YOU GET TO KNOW THEIR STRUGGLES, THEIR DOUBTS, THEIR TRIUMPHS, THEIR HIGHS AND THEIR LOWS.

INTERSTELLAR

always keep cheerful even when it’s miserable, of a lot of livesBECAUSE in that disaster, andHIS ASTRONAUT MATTHEW MCCONAUGHEY IS PULLEDThey OUT lost OF RETIREMENT HE LOVES and I always go for it.

But as for the training, it’s become a disease-ridden, crocodile-filled, KIDS AND EARTH MAY NOT LAST FOR ANOTHER GENERATION, SO SOMEONE HAS TO FIND A 99% was from the military and I learned a snake-filled 1/2 place. So yes, I’m not going to PLACE FOR HUMANITY  bunch as a kid with my TO dad,RELOCATE. who’d beenOur a review: hurry back to that one. commander a climber and loved all far thistoo North Africa and the Middle East. He made the only one and voters remember).

It gets stuff.

He’ll be turning in his grave if I only What isinitLibya aboutand being in theafter wilderness when, returningthat to loud and drowns out some important dialogue. friends credit him with 1 percent…

He’s about 50%! speaks to you personally?

For sheer entertainment I preferred Gravity, but Baltimore, he saw the Libyan revolution against But he taught memore the love of it, which The wildGaddafi is very revealing.

Youhe getjumped to knowon on the news, Interstellar is far complex – an actually amazing Muammar counts for everything. people in a way that you never do otherwise, the next plane. Before he saw much of the actual accomplishment. because they’re uncovered and vulnerable. he was captured and imprisoned for five –Steve Warren war Have you had a chance to take your boys on You get to know their struggles, doubts, and a half months. This would betheir a hard story any ofDOWN these adventures? triumphs, their highs their lows.

And LOW (R) totheir believe in a fictional film, and but Matt has video Yes, I get to do that the rest of the year, when if stuff happens in the wild, it’s unpredictable.  footage to back most of it up. Some of it’s like bad we don’t have TV cameras around us. They Things can go wrong very quickly, and I’ve got Down Beat would have been a better title, home movies, but he gets better with experience, love it! Right now I’m in a little cove off the a massive responsibility to keep these guys referencing both the jazz magazine and the depending on conditions; and he feels conflicted south coast of England, looking at all three alive. But I love that challenge. film’s mood. titles reveal that about recording the action he’s a part of, because boys, prevailing stark naked in theClosing sea in the pouring Amy-Jo (Elleunder Fanning) survived her teen s harddotoyou be think genuine camera. for it isonthat makesDecide a celebrity rain. I’mAlbany sheltered a fallen tree, trying to it’What years and went on to write the book and co-write yourself whether Matt’ s genuine, as he tells his want to do this kind of adventure? keep out of the rain while talking to you. But the a sort Dearest” story to Curry in a series They’re not doing it foroftheinterviews. money, theDid he theyscreenplay, love it. They liveofit.“Daddy It’s in their DNA,except for that she loved her father, jazz pianist Joe Albany become a man or redefine manhood for himself? fame, or the exposure. These guys have all of sure.

(John Hawkes). He was a heroin addict who Isthat. he They an idiot, or is his girlfriend the idiot don’t need to take risks. And thefor spent half his life in prison and the other half on waiting for him all those years? truth of doing this is that it is a risk. You’re You’ve visited so many inhospitable places. parole probation.

With alcoholic mother Warren or strong, How dooryou nail down theher places you want to going to look like you’re not brave–Steve (Lena Headey) mostly out of the picture, Amy or whatever. I think it’s a testament to the film in?

BIG 6 (PG)at heart love to challenge was largely dependent her overly permissive ideaHERO that people Well, we try and pickon diverse terrains.

The  grandmother (Glenn Close).

Her first love was themselves. These guys have all reached Isle of Skye in Scotland is just barren and rejuvenation of Walt animation an epileptic cold drummer (Caleb Landry Jones). The top of their profession, butDisney’s we all have that windswept, and rainy.

So we contrasted underinside: Pixar founder JohnorLasseter has been As Joe, and to rock its own arm yearning If our lives our family’s thatindependent with the hotasdeserts andlikewise dramatic incredible.

The Princess & the detriment, LowIf somebody Down is made random lives were really on the line, haveFrog, I gotTangled, what faces of Utah. has a up realofwish to Wreck-It Ralph and Frozen (the moments from Amy’s life in the mid-‘70s.

Peter it takes to survive? Almost all of these highestguys go somewhere, we pick that. But really, it’s all all-time) Dinklage’s character is never integrated into the grossing said oneanimated of the bestfilm bitsofwas having have spacegiven and about diversity and the challenging terrain. its about most life impressive of hits plot and we never learn the outcome of a crisis the timestudio to think and howstring lucky they early The computer-animated Big involving are that scene since have the been.

The‘90s. outdoors does that. It creates Has there Amy’s been a boyfriend. place you’veThere traveled Hero (based onpeople the Marvel after intended as naturalism, of halting, bonds6 between and it comic) gives uscontinues space was soscene, incredibly difficult that you have no trend, blending awkward and people sitting that to breathe.

At the endaction, of it, allintrigue, of thememotion had a desire to goconversations back? the and wonderfully around listening to swamps jazz or of standing around and smilecomedy on theirinface a light in seamless their eyesway that Probably the black Sumatra, associate with Pixar. story listening opera. The film2001 is well (Fanning we’ve moneycome can’ttobuy.

Fame doesn’t do it.The Drugs where thetotsunami hit in andcast decimated prodigydoHiro, creates isa big a ringer the island. young Mariel don’t do13-year-old it. Booze doesn’t it. It’swho the power part for of the It’s justHemingway) this stinking,and follows tiny I’ve robots link together well shot but it’sswamp, relentlessly of the wild, and seenthat it a can ton in people. black, rotting with downbeat all of theseand never microbots– gathers anyfeeding momentum. you human need a downer, crocodiles off theIf6500 corpses. in any arrangement imaginable– in an effort to get into a prestigious university attended by his however, it may be cheaper than pills.

–Steve Warren paternal brother, Tadashi. After an explosion in the science lab kills Tadashi and his Professor, POINT AND SHOOT (NR) Hiro accidentally activates the kindly caregiver  robot his brother invented, Baymax. Where If Jake Gyllenhaal creeped you out in Hiro is rash and impatient, Baymax– who Nightcrawler, wait until you meet Matthew looks like a Japanese version of the StayVanDyke. No, Matt’s not that bad; but you’ll Puft Marshmallow Man– is kind, gentle and be excused for thinking he is from your first nurturing. When Baymax follows one of the impression, as he shows off his knives and microbots to an abandoned warehouse, they armorwear. What you think after you’ve heard discover someone mass-producing Hiro’s his story may be different – or it may not. invention, and are attacked by a masked man Marshall Curry’s documentary doesn’t tell you controlling the bots. Hiro upgrades Baymax to what to think, and it’s possible no two viewers become an ass-kicking robot, enlists the help will have exactly the same reaction. Matt, an of Tadashi’s inventor friends, and bands them only child, was raised – and spoiled – by his together as an oddball team of superheroes. mother in Baltimore. He was diagnosed with What could’ve been a dumbed-down actionOCD in his teens, when he was the sort of loner adventure is instead an invigorating story about who wouldn’t surprise anyone if he shot up his family, friendship, grief, revenge and teamwork, school. In his mid-20s he decided to give himself with an epic climax and a hint of sequels to a “crash course in manhood.” He set out to see come. Sign us up!

–Bret Love the world with a motorcycle and a video camera, and traveled 35,000 miles, much of it across Check insiteatlanta.com/movies.asp for all movie listings. insiteatlanta.com • December 2014 • PG 13

MUSIC

FILM

TRACK SUITS 9 HOME RELEASES Battle Weapons THE LATEST DVD, BLU RAY & VOD RELEASES

BY BLUE SULLIVAN

A

FTER BEING SUMMARILY oneupped last month with a highwatermark guest mix for The Greatest Singles Column in Human History, I have thrown the gauntlet at the feet of my frequent contributor/frenemy, TJ Kenney. No longer content to merely resume my mix duties as At Risk Teen (my DJ/artist nom-de-plume), I have challenged the young whippersnapper also known as TJDJ to an apocalyptic yearending DJ battle. The results, as always, may be found at www.mixcloud.com/ tracksuits. But be forewarned: there will be (metaphorical) blood.

LONDON GRAMMAR

“If You Wait” (Jacques Lu Cont mix) As often as I’ve featured them in this column, I might as well cede London Grammar their own wing here. I had sworn to discontinue their involvement after already featuring both Arty’s remix of “Hey Now” and RAC’s mix of “Strong” in these mighty pages. But then my favorite remix artist ever decided to stop in for a collabo and my weak will gave way once again. More muted than I would’ve expected given the mighty JLC’s involvement, but also slinky, beautiful and imminently danceable.

CHELSEA WOLFE

“The Warden” (Maceo Plex Remix) And look here, another appearance by an old friend, with similarly brilliant results! A few columns ago I praised Maceo’s brooding refit of Odd Parents – “Learn to Fly”, and now he’s back with another anthem made for the bedroom, the dancefloor and the psyche ward, too. If these two remixes are indicative, there’s a darkness within our Maceo that perversely makes his music shine like conflict diamonds. Here’s hoping his camp never discovers Paxil.

Retro Pick:

FATBOY SLIM

“Everybody Needs A 303” (Sonny Wharton Mix) When an EDM legend on the order of Mr. Norman Cook (aka Fatboy Slim) handpicks you as the opening act for his world tour, you have officially arrived. Such was the good fortune of young Sonny Wharton in 2013, when Fatboy named Wharton his “producer of the year”. Since that epic praise, Wharton has earned every atom of that adulation, starting with this spectacular expansion on Mr. Cook’s old beat classic. Simultaneously straddling both old skool and the current vogue, Wharton has woven a dance floor stunner for ravers from 15 to 45, and given this writer his favorite discovery of 2014.

If you would like to hear this month’s tracks-and a few more great ones we didn’t have room to write about--check our “Track Suits Mix” at: mixcloud.com/tracksuits.

(Special thanks to TJDJ and my brilliant sib Jody for their help in curating this.)

PG 14 • December 2014 • insiteatlanta.com

BY BRET LOVE AND JOHN MOORE

THE BRUCE LEE PREMIERE COLLECTION This 4-disc Blu-Ray set compiles four films representing the martial arts master’s finest work, including 1971’s The Big Boss, 1972’s Fist of Fury (a.k.a. The Chinese Connection) and The Way of the Dragon, and 1978’s Game of Death. Hardcore fans complained that the set is just a strippeddown version of the Legacy Collection.

But, at around half the price, the Premiere Collection is a helluva deal for those who want nearly 7 hours of Bruce Lee at his very best.

THE JEFFERSONS: THE COMPLETE SERIES TV writer/producer Norman Lear owned the ‘70s, cranking out groundbreaking sitcoms such as All In The Family, Sanford & Son and Good Time. The Jeffersons was way ahead of its time, chronicling an upwardly-mobile black family– dry-cleaning entrepreneur George, wife Louise and son Lionel– moving from middle-class Queens to luxurious Manhattan. This 33-disc set collects all 253 episodes, and includes a making-of featurette, an All In The Family crossover episode, and numerous other extras.

TRUE BLOOD: THE COMPLETE SEVENTH SEASON What started out as a brooding, darkly comical look at vampires in modern-day Louisiana grew into a universe that included werewolves, werepanthers, fairies and other supernatural creatures. The show started to fall apart midway through, with over-the-top violence and too many new characters. But it recovered nicely in the bloody final season.

Always smartly written, with sly jabs at the religious right and intolerance, Alan Ball’s follow-up to Six Feet Under left a trail of blood, body parts and satisfied fans.

SGT. BILKO/THE PHIL SILVERS SHOW: THE COMPLETE SERIES The 1950s were a Golden Age for television, and Sgt. Bilko made comedian Phil Silvers one of the decade’s biggest stars. Widely considered among the greatest sitcoms of all time, the show followed Bilko’s crafty schemes and featured a colorful cast of supporting players who became overnight legends. This 20-disc set features all four seasons, as well as a treasure trove of extras including audio commentaries, interviews with Silvers, original network opening and cast commercials, and more.

WKRP IN CINCINNATI: THE COMPLETE SERIES One of television’s most underrated workplace comedies, this ‘70s classic based on Atlanta’s WQXI radio station thrived on its wacky characters, including DJs Dr. Johnny Fever (Howard Hesseman) and Venus Flytrap (Tim Reid) and sexy receptionist Jennifer (Loni Anderson). Shout Factory has done an excellent job of upgrading the image quality and getting rights to over 90% of the music originally played on the show, including hits by legends like Bruce Springsteen, the Rolling Stones, AC/DC, the Grateful Dead, etc. The 13-disc set includes every episode as well as making-of featurettes and a cast reunion.

hoLiDaY

‘Tis The season

december’s movies stuff the stocking with diversity

BY Lee VaLentine Smith

I

t’s the holIday season, frIends and family are in town, so let’s all go to the movies. This month’s batch of films offers a capricious cornucopia of cinematic treasures.

Usually this a very important time for the motion picture industry. It’s a last-minute dash for awards, sequels and, of course, cash. as usual, there are a few blockbusters, boutique pictures, and fierce contenders, but generally only one or two glide to the very top of the box-office tree. so here, presented with our usual “stars/shill/ skinny” rundown, are some of the brightest stars of the december movie screen.

December 12

Exodus: Gods and KinGs The stars: Christian Bale, John turturro, sigourney Weaver.

The shill: to many film fans, ridley scott can do no wrong. and Christian Bale is the king of modern blockbusters. and Biblical epics are always popular at Christmas and easter. for the uninitiated, the story is a look at the exodus of the hebrews from egypt, from the old testament Book of exodus.

The skinny: With the recent “whitewashing” commotion about the film, word of mouth could bring in even more than the built-in audience, and with director scott on hand, the results seem at least visually appealing. you’ve read the book (haven’t you?), now see the movie! inhErEnt VicE The stars: Joaquin Phoenix, Josh Brolin, owen Wilson.

The shill: screenwriter/producer/director tackles the popular Thomas Pynchon novel of the same name. Phoenix investigates the disappearance of his ex-girlfriend’s boyfriend in this trippy, dark romp.

The skinny: Phoenix is intense as usual and a bevy of interesting character actors buoy the unique twists of Pynchon’s original, suspenseful plot. top FiVE The stars: Chris rock, rosario dawson, Kevin hart.

The shill: rock stars as a comedian who really wants to be taken seriously as a “real” actor. In the process, he meets an intriguing journalist assigned to profile him for a magazine. sparks fly, lives are changed, history is rewritten.

The skinny: Great pop culture commentary on modern journalism and the cult of celebrity. rock and dawson are perfectly cast, with cameos from a number of today’s hottest comics.

December 17

thE hobbit: thE battlE oF thE FiVE armiEs The stars: Ian McKellen, Benedict Cumberbatch, Cate Blanchett, Christopher lee.

The shill: Peter Jackson’s third part of the hobbit series is set to be a full-blown epic adventure, in 2-d and 3-d and IMaX. a sure-fire blockbuster for the holidays.

The skinny: This is the one to beat and the

mega-movie of the moment, of near-star Wars proportions. Based on tolkien’s beloved book, and blown up to the big screen by the impish Jackson.

December 19

anniE The stars: Jamie foxx, Quvenzhane Wallis, Camron diaz.

The shill: yet another try at making the musical “annie” modern, this time with Wallis as the loveable ragamuffin and diaz as Miss hannigan. foxx is Will stacks, the rich benefactor.

The skinny: a likeable cast and the familiar score should mark this new annie as a major contender for families looking for a fun night at the movies. niGht at thE musEum: sEcrEt oF thE tomb The stars: Ben stiller, robin Williams, owen Wilson, Ben Kingsley.

The shill: The third and final installment of Museum franchise, this time focusing on a quest to save the magic powers of the tablet of ahkmenrah.

The skinny: The final film of Mickey rooney and one of the last screen appearances of robin Williams, the enduring tale should be a heartwarming, if bittersweet holiday favorite for kids of all ages.

December 24

thE intErViEw The stars: seth rogen, James franco.

The shill: two entertainment journalists get an interview with Kim Jong-Un and are roped into an assassination attempt on the evil leader.

The skinny: a star-vehicle for rogen, who also co-wrote and co-directed, and franco, with enough dopey humor to keep rogen’s fans happy, and a cameo by rob lowe as himself. sounds like fun to us!

December 25

into thE woods The stars: Meryl streep, emily Blunt, James Corden, tracey Ullman.

The shill: stephen sondheim’s Into the Woods is an interesting if often overlooked musical that features a series of plots that turn the tables on several beloved fairytales. rob Marshall’s retelling of it translates well into a holiday film.

The skinny: an incredible and wildly diverse cast including Johnny depp takes the magic of the stage version and transforms it into an imaginative film suitable for the whole family, even grouchy ol’ grandma. unbroKEn The stars: Jack o’Connell, domhnall Gleeson, Garrett hedlund.

The shill: angelina Jolie’s version of the 2010 book by laura hillebrand tells the true story of olympic athlete louis Zamperini (o’Connell). he survives a plane crash in the Pacific, spends over a month on a raft and then served two and a half years in prisoner of war camps in Japan.

The skinny: definitely an oscar contender and the perfect selection for solemn food for thought on a cold winter afternoon away from the merriment of the holiday.

MUSIC

Album Reviews

REVIEWS BY BRET LOVE, LEE VALENTINE SMITH AND JOHN B. MOORE

Rebirth Brass Band Move Your Body

(Basin Street Records)

Most people who visit New Orleans rarely venture beyond the French Quarter. But if you head north from the mighty Mississippi and cross over N. Rampart Street to the area around Congo Square and Louis Armstrong Park, you’ll enter Tremé, arguably among the most culturally important neighborhoods in all of America.

Formally known as Faubourg Tremé, the racially mixed area was where slaves once gathered on Sundays to play music and dance, keeping their African traditions alive.

Made famous by the HBO show Tremé, this tiny ‘hood was the first in U.S. history to house free people of color. As AfricanAmerican and Créole cultures combined, Tremé gave birth to many of the traditions New Orleans is famous for today, including the cuisine (gumbo, jambalaya, etoufee), the Mardi Gras Indians, and the music (a.k.a. jazz, and brass bands in particular).

Rebirth Brass Band was born in Tremé (where the founding members went to high school together), recorded its first album in Tremé, and are the standard-bearers for the sound and spirit of this culturally rich neighborhood. Blending the second line tradition with elements of funk, soul and hip-hop, their music swings with vitality and vigor, paying tribute to the New Orleans jazz bands of yesteryear while simultaneously moving things forward with unstoppable swag.

Move Your Body is an undeniably infectious treat for fans of the brass band sound.

Opening with the gospel-inflected “Lord, Lord, Lord, You’ve Sure Been Good To Me,” the album captures the raw energy of a show-stopping performance on Frenchman Street. Original tunes such as “Rebirth Makes You Dance,” “Take ‘em to the Moon” and the title are relentlessly funky, insisting that you shake your ass. “Rebirth Groove” introduces a rollicking Latin jazz influence, and NOLA legend Trombone Shorty drops in for a guest spot on “On My Way.” It’s the closest thing I’ve ever heard to a New Orleans street party, and it’ll make you want to book a ticket to Tremé post-haste. A

The BlueBonnets Play Loud

(Self-released) Fifty years ago, Roy Head’s “Treat Her Right” became one of the most-loved (and oft-covered) Texas-bred rock hits of the ‘60s. Many artists have tried to match it with their own version, including Bob Dylan, but few have truly succeeded. Until now. As the finale of their second release, the Austinbased BlueBonnets have found the perfect

ingredients to create the definitive rendition, actually superseding the original while deftly defining the state of Texas rock and roll in the process. Bassist Dominique Davalos, guitarists Kathy Valentine and Eve Monsees and drummer Kristy McInnis – stand ready to be the definitive rock band of the southwest. And they’ve got the songs, charm and chops to back that claim. The fiercely indie band features international pop star Valentine, the former bassist of The Go-Go’s and author of anthems such as “Vacation” and “Can’t Stop The World.” Davalos cofounded the tough-rockin’ Delphines and Monsees has long been considered one of the best blues guitarists in Austin. Their second, fiercely independent release includes 10 solid originals, with such spicy ingredients as “She’s Got Thorns,” and “Psychometer.”

The songs are mostly created and sung

by Davalos and Valentine, with a bit of a defiant attitude and a wizened world view.

Memorable hooks, smokin’ blues solos and an insistent beat abound. Album highlights include “I Like Lies” and “Have a Nice Day.”

Ricky Rebel The Blue Album (Blue Records)

at times, Joni Mitchell. The fact that there’s not a huge Music City Promo Machine cramming her face on every magazine cover and make-up ad makes the tracks even more enjoyable and real. She’s no plastic doll propped up on a stage to sell “product.”

LaBrie’s organic delivery and straightforward readings of “Away in a Manger” and “Silent Night” rival any big-box production due to their restrained beauty. The title track is a great introduction to the distinctive, R&B-tinged vocals and controlled, jazzinfluenced arrangements of her full-length debut. Likewise, “See Your Face” and “O Come Emmanuel” easily complete the alltoo-brief collection of subtle joy, exuding an honest confidence.

Bob Dylan and The Band

The Basement Tapes Complete: The Bootleg Series Vol. 11 [Deluxe Edition] (Legacy Records)

much stronger sense of what the moods were like in the house. Slightly unpolished, but still brilliant, just about any one of these songs here sound like they were ready for a proper release without too much more production. There are plenty of covers here as well, from standard folk and country songs like “My Bucket’s Got a Hole in It” (made popular by Hank Williams) to Johnny Cash’s “Big River” and “Folsom Prison Blues”. While there is also a two-disc version that offers highlights from this set, the deluxe edition – which comes with a 120-page bound book of photos and other memorabilia - is well worth the price and almost justifies the 40-plus year wait. Can’t wait to see how the Bootleg Series plans to top this release. A

Sallie Ford Slap Back

(Vanguard) If you were a fan of Sallie Ford & The Sound Outside, don’t assume you know what her new album is going to sound like. While her earlier efforts had a real retro feel that flirted with soul, rockabilly and even hints of jazz, her new outfit – an all-female band – finds this Portland singer and crew rocking a more modern garage sound with full on fuzzed out guitars and bass and drums up front. Not to knock here earlier efforts – which were pretty damn fine – but this latest evolution as a solo artist is simply impressive. Most of the tracks here possess a slow funk vibe that starts to build. While it’s hard to pick standouts from this collection, it’s difficult to find any faults in songs like “An Ending,” “Hey Girl” and “So Damn Low.” A brilliant reinvention from someone you didn’t suspect needed a change. B+

Fly Golden Eagle Quartz Bijou

Boy-bands were common in the ‘90s and No Authority might have been totally forgotten by now if it weren’t for the dynamic vocalist Ricky G. Signed to Michael Jackson’s label, the group had a burst of popularity and then imploded, leaving Ricky to successfully transform himself into his current incarnation as dance music master Ricky Rebel. His newest release, The Blue Album supersedes 2012’s Manipulator in every way, taking the ‘80s-centric dance moves of his previous hits “Geisha Dance” and “Get It On” and infusing them with a brash, and lovably rebellious honesty. It’s still fashion, but this set is undeniably a fashion statement and solid proof that his debut was hardly a one-off collection of hooks. Here, the stripped down lyrics are fueled by an insistent beat and the result is glam-pop perfection. Opener “Star” sets the pace with an anthemic hopefulness that supports the more serious messages of the disc’s highlight track, “Rebel the Darkness,” dedicated to the LGBT community.

Shannon LaBrie My Snow Angel

(shannonlabriemusic.com) Last year’s debut Just Be Honest showcased the incredibly rich delivery of Nashvillebased singer-songwriter Shannon LaBrie.

Her current release, packaged as a holiday EP, carries on her tradition of subtle but deeply confessional performances that recall the best of Chi Coltrane, Fiona Apple and,

Aside from (maybe) The Dead, no other artists’ fans have been more rabid about collecting every scrap of recorded music put out by that musician than Bob Dylan’s acolytes. Ever since his label started releasing their Bootleg Series in 1991 - mainly comprised of outtakes, demos and live recordings, many that had never been heard outside of Dylan’s circle – fans have been speculating about the existence of more songs from his storied 1967 sessions with The Band.

The songs were worked on in the famous pink house in upstate New York, while Dylan was recuperating from a motorcycle accident and the music world was left wondering if he would ever return.

The songs that make it onto this collection (138 tracks on the 6-Disc deluxe edition) were found on tapes that surfaced just a few years ago and have been restored. The music here seem pretty removed from the 24-track Basement Tapes album from these same sessions that came out in 1975, a much more polished, cohesive collection. But that is part of the appeal of this massive haul – you get a

(ATO) You can almost smell the incense burning just minutes into the sophomore release from Nashville’s Fly Golden Eagle.

Steeped heavily in ‘60s and ‘70s nostalgia, from the T Rex drums and hard guitars to the psychedelic keyboards and heady poetry of The Doors, Fly Golden Eagle come off like a band just thawed out after four decades in the freezer. And despite a tendency to reveal a bit too long into what has already been done in the past, the band does show some sparks of creativity here and there, particularly on songs like the fuzzed out “Heady Ways” and organdrenched “Medicine Hat.” It may not be that original, but this four piece have managed to meld funk, psychedelic and good old straight forward rock into a pretty solid album. B-

Coheed and Cambria

In Keeping Secrets of Silent Earth: 3 (Equal Vision/Columbia/Legacy)

See Albums on page 23 insiteatlanta.com • December 2014 • PG 15

Holiday Events and Attractions NYE EVENTS

Peach Drop 2015 Underground Atlanta

Tuesday Dec. 31; 11AM until 3AM Free Admission; Underground Atlanta Peachdrop.com

country’s top include open bar (well drinks) and midconferences and night champagne toast. Party with the a National best crowd in Atlanta without breaking the Semifinal every bank. Get your tickets now before prices third year. At go up, you won't find a better deal.

12:30 p.m. on game day, downtown Atlanta will come alive with the Chick-fil-A Bowl Parade. The parade will come to an end at the Georgia World Congress Center, where the Chick-fil-A The Tabernacle 152 Luckie Street Bowl FanFest will draw 30,000 fans for a Five Shows: Dec. 30 & 31; Jan. 1, 2 & 3 pre-game interactive football and tailgate Tickets available at livenation.com experience including games, music, food and the pre-game team walks.

Downtown Countdown Hyatt Regency Atlanta Tuesday, December 31 DowntownCountdown.net

For the 11th straight year, Atlanta's marquee New Year's Eve party, is returning to the luxurious Hyatt Regency, Atlanta on Peachtree Street. With a ratio of one bartender for every 70 guests and one buffet station for every 150 guests, you won't spend your New Year's Eve waiting in lines.

The event attracts a mid 20's to late 30's crowd, but everyone is welcome. They get a diverse crowd, both ethnically and agewise. There is also an even mix of singles and couples. With four huge party areas, the Downtown Countdown will have something for everyone. Dress is semi-formal, creative black tie optional. The general admission ticket areas offer limited seating. VIP Seating is also available. This event usually sells out and they offer early purchase discounts.

Umphrey’s McGee

Front Page News & Tijuana Garage L5P Wednesday, December 31, 9pm-1am atlantabeerfestivals.com

All inclusive party with appetizer buffet, well liquor, Fans who have followed Umphrey's McGee house wine and for any period of time know that there are over 40 beer choiconly two guarantees: you never know what es. Live music on you’re going to get, and Umphrey’s always the Tijuana Garage delivers. stage with Action Jackson, DJ Qtip on the FPN Stage, Flip Cup and Beer Pong in Cobb Energy Centre 2800 Cobb Galleria Pkwy the heated garage. Dress is casual.

Dancing With The Stars

Buckhead Saloon NYE

The Chick-fil-A Bowl will hold its annual New Year’s Eve game again this year at the Georgia Dome. Now one of the country’s top six bowl games, the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl is blasting into the new playoff era with the promise of some of the post-season’s best football. College Football’s Playoff Committee has assigned Atlanta’s bowl game the top-ranked teams from the PG 16 • December 2014 • insiteatlanta.com

A Christmas Carol, the most heartwarming story of the season comes to life with holiday carols, stunning stage magic and your favorite Atlanta actors. In this tale of redemption, Ebenezer Scrooge goes to sleep on Christmas Eve as a miserly, stonehearted man and awakens on Christmas Day with a compassionate and benevolent heart after his encounter with three ghosts.

Celebrate this magnificent staging of Charles Dickens's classic Christmas tale and Ebenezer Scrooge’s eye-opening Christmas Eve journey.

Christmas with the ASO

Atlanta Symphony Orchestra December 11 at 8pm; Dec. 13 2pm & 8pm atlantasymphony.org (404) 733-4200

December 31 8:00 pm cobbenergycentre.com

Dancing with the Stars, ABC’s leading entertainment show, is bringing their one-of-a-kind Ring in 2015 at touring production Buckhead's best to the Cobb Energy New Years Eve Centre this New Party! Dance the Year’s Eve! Alfonso night away with DJ Ribeiro, Emma Counterstrike.

Slater and Valentin Tickets include an Chmerkovskiy join previously announced open bar (well & fan favorites Mark Ballas, Witney Carson, domestic) and complimentary early bird buffet. Don't miss out Keo Motsepe, Sasha Farber, and Kym on their limited availability $35 tickets as Johnson. VIP Packages are available, offering fans meet & greets, photo opportuniprices will go up closer to the event. ties with cast, premium seats and exclusive merchandise.

3227 Roswell Road (404) 963-7739 Wednesday, December 31, 8pm-3am buckheadsaloonatlanta.com

IRIS NYE Experience

2715 Buford Hwy. (770) 240-6377 Wednesday, December 31, 10pm-5am irispresents.com

HOLIDAYSHOWS

The number one EDM New Year’s Eve event in the southe a st .

Fabulous Fox Theatre Featuring 12th Performing Dec. 11 thru Dec. 28 Planet, Eddie Gold, atlantaballet.com (404) 873.5811 Mantis, MK Ultra, Atliens, Loudcloud and more! Plus MC Word, Bass Bot and the IRIS Girls. Also a Baloon drop, Champagne toast and $2,500 in cash and prizes. Book tickets early as this event consistently sells out.

Atlanta Ballet’s Nutcracker

Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl Churchill’s of Buckhead Georgia Dome Dec. 31 at 7:30PM cfapb.com

Alliance Theatre Nov 21 - Dec 24 Box Office (404) 733-5000 AllianceTheatre.org/christmas

NYE SHOWS

New Beers Eve

The 26th annual Peach Drop offers a full day of family fun and an evening of topnotch entertainment. Festivities will continue well into the morning with a variety of live performances, followed by the descent of the 800 pound Peach and a spectacular firework display. Packed full of excitement, the Peach Drop is Atlanta’s favorite way of ringing in the New Year!

A Christmas Carol

3223 Cains Hill Place (404) 233-5633 Wednesday, December 31, 8pm-3am churchillsofbuckhead.com

The new and i m p r o v e d Churchill's of Buckhead is throwing their first annual New Year's Eve party. Tickets start at just $15 and

The Atlanta Ballet’s annual production of Tchaikovsky’s masterpiece has been an integral part of the city’s holiday season for over 40 years. The show tells the timeless tale of young Clara Stahlbaum, who awakes at midnight on Christmas Eve to find her prized Nutcracker toy has come to life to do battle with the Mouse King’s army.

From dancing snowflakes to lively Russian nesting dolls, the extravagant production is sure to prove a hit with ages 8 to 80.

For more than four decades, these classic concerts have featured the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and Chorus, Morehouse College Glee Club and Gwinnett Young Singers, conducted by the ASO’s Norman Mackenzie. This year, special guest soloist, tenor Russell Thomas, will join the cast. Capture the spirit of the holidays with the Orchestra’s iconic story of Christmas, created by the legendary Robert Shaw.

A Very Merry Holiday Pops!

Atlanta Symphony Orchestra December 19 at 8pm; Dec. 20 2pm & 8pm atlantasymphony.org (404) 733-4200

Michael Krajewski conducts this annual, anything-goes holiday variety show that stars the Orchestra, vocalist Reginald Smith Jr., a gleeful youth chorus comprised of Atlanta’s finest high school vocalists, the season’s merriest songs and a jitterbugging Santa.

UrbanNutcrackerWonderland

Georgia International Convention Center December 20 & 21 ballethnic.org (404) 762-1416

Ballethnic Dance Company’s take on the beloved holiday classic adds an urban cultural twist, setting the story on Atlanta’s Auburn Avenue during the 1940s. The characters are more modern and funky, from “Reggae Ragdolls” and a spinning, leaping “Black Russian” to “Mother Spice & Her Tumbling Spice Drops” and the elegant “Brown Sugar.”

ATTRACTIONS

Stone Mountain Christmas

Stone Mountain Park Through January 4 stonemountainpark.com

and “Magical Christmas Garden,” with festive Christmas music playing throughout.

There are also narrated scenes of ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas and The Nativity; a Christmas Village offering holiday gifts and collectibles, food and photo ops with Santa and Rudolph; and a “Jolly Trolley” tour for those who’d prefer not to drive their own cars.

Festival of the Season

Georgia Aquarium Through December 25 georgiaaquarium.org

Have a Holly Jolly Christmas at Stone Mountain Park, where the true magic of the season is in the air. Enjoy the glow of more than two million lights, festive music and visits from some your favorite holiday characters. Start a new tradition and create memories that will last a lifetime. Named

by USA Today as one of the ten best places in the country to catch Santa Claus.

Garden Lights, Holiday Nights

Atlanta Botanical Garden Through January 3 atlantabotanicalgarden.org

This winter season, gather the family and celebrate the holidays at the world's most magical Aquarium! 'Festival of the SEAson,’ Georgia Aquarium's month-long celebration of the holidays, transforms the Aquarium's galleries and exhibits into a winter wonderland - incorporating a spectacular light and music show, appearances

by Santa and SCUBA Claus, the return of the Weeki Wachee Mermaids and a holiday edition of our live entertainment experience.

Holiday in Lights

This contemporary holiday light show features more than 1.5 million energy-efficient LED lights. This year new colors shine in blazing reds, brilliant oranges and sizzling yellows. Three towering cone trees ablaze in red and yellow will beckon visitors to the heart of the show. On the Great Lawn colored lights dance to a new selection of holiday music and choreography.

Kids will enjoy the Train Garden while the light show continues inside the Fuqua Conservatory.

Christmas at Callanwolde Callanwolde Fine Arts Center Through December 16 callanwolde.org

Callanwolde is one of the city’s most storied arts organizations. Their annual fundraiser finds the 27,000-sq ft Late Gothic Revival mansion– which has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1973– decked out in fancy bows of holly by the ATL’s top interior and floral designers. With tours of the mansion, live performances, shopping and seasonal workshops, it’s one heck of a swanky way to welcome in the holiday season.

Fantasy in Lights

Callaway Gardens Through December 30 callawaygardens.com

Rated by National Geographic as one of the Top 10 Christmas Light Displays in the World, Callaway Gardens’ Fantasy In Lights is truly a wondrous sight to behold.

The centerpiece is a 5-mile drive lined with 8 million lights, divided thematically into 14 sections that include “Snowflake Valley”

Centennial Olympic Park Through January 19 centennialpark.com

Centennial Olympic Park’s annual holiday celebration gives kids of all ages a chance to strap on their skates and take a spin on the city’s only outdoor ice-skating rink, with theatrical lighting and festive holiday music to set the wintry mood. The 21-acre park is also festooned with thousands of twinkling lights and a huge Christmas tree, with its stunning view of the city skyline making it a picturesque place for a nighttime stroll.

Charge By Phone: 800-745-3000. All dates, acts and ticket prices subject to change without notice. Ticket prices subject to applicable fees.

Gift Of Lights

Atlanta Motor Speedway Through January 3 giftoflightsatlms.com

The Gift of Lights at Atlanta Motor Speedway is now in its fourth year. The Speedway is once again transformed into a magical winter wonderland. It’s bigger and brighter than ever before. Get the entire family into the Christmas spirit and see how over-the-top decorating looks while being able to brag you’ve driven on the famed Atlanta Motor Speedway oval. Over 50,000 people from all over the southeast take in the light display at this world famous sports facility each year.

Magical Nights of Lights Lake Lanier Islands Through Dec. 31 lakelanierislands.com

Magical Nights of Lights features a 7-mile drive filled with colorful themed displays such as “The 12 Days of Christmas.” At the end you’ll find an impressive array of carnival rides and games, blazing bonfires for roasting marshmallows, and Santa’s Workshop, where you can meet jolly ol’ St Nick himself!

Atlanta Botanical Garden insiteatlanta.com • December 2014 • PG 17

Road Warriors

This Month’s Hottest Shows

BY SACHA DZUBA

12/05 – BRIAN SETZER ORCHESTRA CHRISTMAS ROCKS!

Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre The Brian Setzer Orchestra, fronted by threetime Grammy Award-winner Brian Setzer, brings their Christmas Rocks extravaganza to the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Center. With a career spanning more than 30 years, Setzer has smash hits as the leader and founder of The Stray Cats, the 18-piece Brian Setzer Orchestra, and as a solo artist. This holiday extravaganza combines aspects of swing, rock & roll, rockabilly, big band, and punk; all tied together with a big Christmas bow. His December concert will include Setzer’s legendary guitar magic on re-imagined and acclaimed holiday classics along with his own hits; such as “Rock This Town,” “Stray Cat Strut,” and “Jump, Jive and Wail”. Celebrate this holiday season with the coolest cat in town!

12/06 – WEEZER

Tabernacle You may know them for their songs about Buddy Holly and unraveling sweaters; Weezer is one of America’s best indie rock/pop bands.

Their latest album, Everything Will Be Alright in the End, brings them full circle back to the original producer of their Blue and Green albums; Ric Ocasek. This album sees a return to roots sound for Weezer, marking their highest charting release since Pinkerton. They showcase a raw energy and seem more than willing to tap into their back catalog of alt rock hits.

Only the most curmudgeonly indie snob could

take issue with such hits as “Hash Pipe” and the ever popular “Say It Ain’t So”. Buddy Holly glasses and conservative sweaters of the fashion forward librarian required.

boys are as popular as ever; their crunchy guitar riffs and driving rhythms causing indie kids to bob their heads all over the world. Collaborating with producer Dangermouse, the Keys recently released their latest album. Turn Blue adds elements of soul and psychedelic rock to their blues-rock style, giving the Keys a more melancholy sound and tone. Their now classic hits “Tighten Up”, “Howlin’ for You”, and “Lonely Boy” are sure to get the crowd hoppin’ and jivin’; get on down to groove of The Black Keys.

12/15 – OPETH & IN FLAMES

Center Stage Devin Townsend, a Candian musician, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, vocalist, and producer; this man wears multiple hats and they all look fantastic on him. His initial discovery was punctuated by performing and recording lead vocals for Steve Vai; he went on to be a primary guitarist for Front Line Assembly, formed the incredible metal band Strapping Young Lad, and has released countless solo and side-project albums. Townsend is influenced by a diverse range of music, with his own creations reflecting on hard rock, progressive metal, ambient, pop and punk. His latest double album release Z² includes Sky Blue, a DT Project release, and Dark Matters; a concept album follow-up to his previous Ziltoid album. Unpredictable, often hilarious, with intensely passionate soaring vocals and incredible guitar skill; the Devin Townsend Project is a prog-rock force to be reckoned with.

Tabernacle Swedish band Opeth, led by Mikael Akerfeldt, embrace their diverse influences as musicians to create epic and dynamic songs. These songs are usually over 10 minutes in length and infuse elements from blues, progressive, folk and classical music into Scandinavian death metal.

Their compositions morph and shift through intense dynamic changes that propel the listener through an intense and complex sonic journey. In Flames produces some of the finest melodic death metal from Gothenburg, Sweden. Along with Dark Tranquility and At the Gates, In Flames was one of the first bands to pioneer this particular style of metal. Harmonized lead guitar melodies are punctuated by scream-style singing, death metal growls, and clean vocals; creating the signature sound of In Flames. This tour sees each band supporting their latest releases, Pale Communion (Opeth) and Siren Charms (In Flames). Fans are sure to hear classic favorites alongside powerful new cuts. Not to be missed! Metal horns required!

12/11 – THE BLACK KEYS

12/17 - FLEETWOOD MAC

12/08 – DEVIN TOWNSEND PROJECT

Philips Arena Dan Auerbach and Patrick Carney founded the Ohio group The Black Keys, drawing heavily on a blues and rock sound. Not sure if you’ve heard them before? Believe me, you have. These fellows were Warner Bros. most prolific commercially licensed band of year for 2010. Far from being considered sell-outs however, the

Philips Arena Fleetwood Mac is Lindsey Buckingham, Stevie Nicks, John McVie, Christine McVie, and Mick Fleetwood; incredible musicians all performing together for a night of classic hits and new music. Known for warm and incredible melodic harmonies, jangly rhythms, punctuated with virtuosic guitar flourish; the rein-

e Magazine sit

IN

Voted Best BBQ in Atlanta!

’s

Best of Atlanta 2014

WINNER!

LIVE MUSIC LINEUP FOR DECEMBER Friday, 5:

ROUGH DRAFT

Saturday 6:

MOJO DAVIS

Friday 12:

LARRY GRIFFITH

Saturday 13: THE HOLLIDAYS Friday 19:

FRANKIES BLUES MISSION

Saturday 20: MR CHAPMANS QUARTERLY REVUE Wed. 24 to Fri. 26: CLOSED Sat 27:

TED BAUMAN TRIO

N.Y.E. / Wed. 31 BEVERLY “GUITAR” WATKINS Sundays:

SNAKE LEGS

Mondays:

DRY WHITE TOAST

Tuesdays:

BURNING TIME

Wednesday: GEORGIA FLOOD Thursdays:

CHICKENSHACK

Happy Holidays Everybody!

1811 Piedmont Ave. NE

404-607-1622

For Booking: 404-325-8846 PG 18 • December 2014 • insiteatlanta.com

The Black Keys

vigorated line-up is working on new material along with Christine. They recently added to their immense catalog with an EP of new material called Extended Play; their first new songs in a decade. Also, be sure to check out the remastered/expanded release of their best loved album, Rumors; in celebration of its 35th anniversary. This is an unforgettable night of classic rock and blues creations with the restored Rumors line-up. Join these legendary musicians, don’t miss the sublime and spectacular Fleetwood Mac!

12/19 & 12/20 – JEFFREY BUTZER & T.T. MAHONEY PERFORM A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS

The Earl Those multi-instrumental musical misfits, Jeffrey Bützer and T. T. Mahony, are returning to the Earl and bringing the music of Vince Guaraldis’ Charlie Brown’s Christmas to life.

Robby Handley (bass), joins T.T. and Jeffrey to perform the beloved album in its entirety.

Holiday projections, baked goods (limited amounts), and a recognizably bare Christmas tree will warm all of your hearts with holiday cheer. Opening the show will be The Small Reactions’ (Wreath-Actions) Rock ‘N’ Roll Christmas Extravaganza, featuring versions of Christmas covers by bands like The Sonics, The Ramones, The Wailers, The Trashmen, and others. Forget that fruitcake, this is the perfect gift for the holiday season!

MUSIC

POSITIVE VIBRATION

Ziggy Marley on Jamaica, Evolution of Reggae & His Personal Revolution

BY BRET LOVE

Z

IGGY MARLEY HAS DONE A lot over the past two decades. His political activism led to work with the United Nations. He and his family launched the Ghetto Youths Crew and Tuff Gong Worldwide (a spinoff of Bob’s Tuff Gong International) record labels.

He won five Grammy Awards and a Daytime Emmy Award. He released a pro-marijuana song in support of Califor-nia’s Proposition 19 initiative to legalize recreational marijuana, and a comic book called Ma-rijuanaman. And he recently released his fifth solo album, Fly Rasta.

I’ve always admired the positive attitude that seems to come through in everything you do.

Where does that positivity come from, and how do you keep it going?

Positivity comes from experiences of negativity, and the ability for us as human beings to overcome negativity and triumph over it. That’s where the positivity comes from– the resolve of human spirit to overcome the difficulties we face.

How did your childhood in Jamaica, and the natural beauty you saw there, impact you?

When I was young, we had a garden where we grew fruits and vegetables, and we raised sheep and goats. As a result, I always feel connected to the animals and just being around the woods. I always had a vivid imagination, and I would spend a lot of time out in nature by myself, losing myself in these bushes. A lot of who I am today has a lot to do with those years I spent in that state.

As you grew up and started traveling the world, did you gain a greater appreciation for Jamaica’s natural beauty?

Everywhere I go, I see nature. I stopped differentiating the nature in Jamaica from the nature in America, or from the nature in Europe.

To me it is all one organism– the sky, the sun, the trees and the ocean. I love it all. If anything, my experiences growing up in Jamaica have made me become even more open to nature in the rest of the world.

What would you recommend to people visiting Jamaica for the first time?

Get outside of the hotels and go out into the countryside to meet the people. Jamaica is a beautiful place. We still have a lot of nature, and haven’t destroyed it in the countryside.

Let’s talk about music. How do you view the evolution of reggae since your dad started out with the Wailers back in the 1960s?

The evolution of the music is really about the evolution of the individuals who are creating the music. The generation of my father and guys like Burning Spear was very connected to a spiritual idea, Rastafarianism. There was almost a religious element to what they were doing. The next generation that came up behind them was not as tuned-in to that element. They were more tunedin to the material, sexual and selfish side of things.

I’m not blaming them, or saying negative things about them. It was just a shift in the generation.

The continuation of the music in the future will depend on the individuals who become artists.

Are they open-minded, closed-minded, spiritual, physical, materialistic or artificial?

How would you describe your personal musical evolution, from Tomorrow People to Fly Rasta?

One thing I noticed that I didn’t realize until these later years is that Love has always been in my songs. On Tomorrow People, there was a phrase where I sang, “If there’s no love in your heart then there’s no hope for you.” Love has always been very important to me, but I’m actually just realizing it now. It’s the type of love that is not individual, but universal– love as the most fundamental thing in life, for the progress of the planet and the people. That has not changed about what I do. I still sing about love. What has changed for me is my perspective. Many years ago in Jamaica, I think I was trying to be more political and speak of social injustices. After a while I decided to take a step away from that and focus more on the emotional and spiritual side of people instead of the socio-economic side of things. I think the solution to the problems we face is something that lies within us. The economic, social and political stuff of revolutions has been happening forever and the world hasn’t benefited much from it. The state of the world isn’t much better now than it was before.

Revolution becomes something that is not about socio-economic or political injustice, but about changing the individual within us. The personal revolution must be the catalyst.

Can you talk a little bit about the Urge Foundation, and what you’re trying to do with it?

THE ONLY WAY WE EFFECT THE CHANGES THE WORLD WANTS TO SEE IS BY AFFECTING THE CHILDREN.

The only way we effect the changes the world wants to see is by affecting the children. Adults are too set in their ways. The adults who have the power to make a big impact on the world do not have the will to change this world. The important thing for us is to plant a seed in children for a better world and give them the tools not to make the same mistakes we have made.

What are your thoughts on the U.S. legalizing marijuana in Colorado and Washington?

Making ganja illegal is like making the truth illegal. The truth was demonized, criticized and criminalized. Finally, they have decided to set the truth free.

Do you have any specific goals for your future?

The biggest dream is for the world to live in peace and love. It’s not that I think that I can do this thing by myself. It’s not just me. It’s about all of us, and we each have to do our own lit-tle part in it.

COMEDY

THE NEW REFORMATION MOVEMENT

Brooklyn Duo Mix Country-flavored Comedy with Cutting-edge Commentary

BY LEE VALENTINE SMITH

R

EFORMED WHORES MAY BE the most subversive (and funniest) empowerment movement in the history of feminism. The Brooklyn-based comedic actresses deftly straddle (in the most lady-like manner, of course) music and comedy. They’re a sweet and playful throwback to the days of Patsy Cline and Minnie Pearl, with the caustic wit of Sarah Silverman and unfiltered musicality of Flight Of The Concords. Their debut album, Ladies Don’t Spit, is filled with infectiously catchy hooks and naughty but spot-on comments on the politics of relationships. The effusive Mary Cecile Anderson and Katy Frame spoke with Insite from their bohemian bawdyhouse in New York.

You are both actresses, but have you ever been in a band before?

Marie: Being from Nashville, music was a huge part of my growing-up years, but I never specifically thought of being in a band. Once I got to New York City, I was dating a musician, and I said, “If he can do it, I can do it!” So I bought a ukulele and started writing.

Katy: I studied music in school in the DC area, Maryland. I was active in musicals and stuff, but I’d never really written my own material, I’d always worked on other people’s projects.

Then you guys met in 2009, right?

Marie: Yes, I met Katy at a party. I told her I played the uke and she said she played the accordion, and those are the cutest instruments

ever. I said, “That’s so hot, let’s start a band!” I booked a gig for us two months later. And now we’re coming up on our five year anniversary.

Katy: I’d never really written songs, and then to sit down and actually write a funny song, it just changed everything. It opened everything up, and immediately changed that notion that I have to wait around for the business to come around to me; I can just create it myself. And with this band, two is much more powerful than one, so it all works.

turned up a little bit more.

You are making a very strong female empowerment statement with the lyrics and some biting social commentary. Was that planned from the beginning?

Marie: We love that’s what has come from it. We’re women and definitely very opinionated. But across the board, we just want everyone to feel good about their lives, whether it’s men or women. Women December 26 & 27 at 8 & 10p.m. come up to us and say, Especially for The Improv “You’re saying what improvisational actors, theimprovatlanta.com I’m thinking.” The guys a duo situation must be watch their girlfriends at ideal. the show, and if they’re laughing, I think they feel Marie: We have such respect for these comics they can laugh, too. So it empowers men, too. we do shows with. I don’t know how they do it, Katy: We believe in equality and we also because we’ve got each other to bounce stuff believe that it has nothing to do with tearing a off of. man down.

Katy: I don’t know how comics travel alone, it must be so sad.

Maybe it will open some topics of conversation that a couple could never talk about, before Were you called Reformed Whores when you laughing together about one of your songs. started playing shows?

Marie: Yes and you know, a lot of people get Katy: Yes and then the name helped us form the laid after our shows. It sort of creates a dialogue. whole concept for the group.

Sometimes they’ll email us and say, “We’ve been Marie: A lot of our material comes from who married for a while and you guys kind of pulled we are and what we want to say. We both deal us out of a rut.” We’re like, “Awesome!” with the same issues as everyone but we can say it through these people. It’s still us, but it’s just

REFORMED WHORES

You’re unique in that in addition to playing comedy clubs, you often open for bands like Les Claypool’s Duo De Twang or Rev. Horton Heat.

Is it hard to win-over a tough music audience, especially if they haven’t heard of you before that night?

Marie: Comedy is comedy and music is music.

We approach it in a way that everyone can relate.

It definitely takes a second to get adjusted to seeing us in our square-dancing dresses. Then we have to come out of the gate, really high energy.

We started every show on our past tour with our song “If I Had A Willie For A Day.” Basically, what would it be like and what would we do with it?

Girls have been thinking that forever, and guys think it’s hilarious.

Katy: Everybody likes a good penis joke!

Has “Country Music” embraced you guys yet?

Marie: Well, the CMA hasn’t exactly reached out to us yet. But I think country fans will love us, because at the end of the day, country music is about amazing storytelling. And that’s specifically why we chose it. Our material can be blue and a bit raunchy; and country is so sweet and genteel, so we can sneak it in. We are original and a throwback to Minnie Pearl and Dolly Parton at the same time, and they were very strong but also very funny.

Katy: There’s just so many jokes to be told and so many new ways to do it. It’s an exciting time for women in comedy and women in the entertainment industry. I think it’s a great time for us. insiteatlanta.com • December 2014 • PG 19

MUSIC

ROB LYNCH

Looks to Bring Music Back to the United States with New Album

BY JOHN B. MOORE

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in your music?

I find it a very liberating and cathartic experience. I have nothing to hide.

SIDE FROM A BRIEF VISIT TO Philly to record his last record, British singer-songwriter Rob You started out in a very DIY fashion.

Lynch has seen little of the U.S. Did you look what other similar DIY Sure he was a constant on the Warped musicians had done to get your music Tour here last summer, but saw little out there? more than the various parking lots of Not overly, I really just got on with outdoor music venues from one suburb to touring off my own back the next. With the release and recording songs in of his latest record, All ON MONDAY, I HEAD friends’ bedrooms. It These Nights in Bars Will was all very organic and OUT TO MAINLAND Somehow Save My Soul, honest.

EUROPE FOR A HEADLINE he may finally get the opportunity to bring his TOUR. I’M DOING THAT You were touring the songs back to the U.S. for a AS A FULL BAND. IT U.S. for the first time proper solo tour.

WILL BE GOOD TO GET this summer. Obviously Lynch, who has you had been to Philly, BACK OVER THERE, AS bootstrapped his music but what were your career so far in typical DIY I HAVEN’T BEEN SINCE impressions of America fashion - first going by the BEFORE THE SUMMER. before and after the moniker Lost on Campus, tour? now simply using his I really only got to experience a handful name – he’s put out a number of EPs, but of places properly. The Warped Tour thanks to Xtra Mile Recordings, he has takes place, predominantly, in parking finally issued a proper debut. lots, and the journeys between one venue Lynch spoke with us recently about to the next tended to be very lengthy. recording that album, traveling on the So, in reality I saw a lot of America’s Warped Tour and writing about personal parking lots and not much else. However, issues. the cities that I did visit, I really liked.

Notable mentions to Pittsburgh and You came to Philadelphia to record part Nashville. My impressions beforehand of this new record. What brought you so were pretty close to the reality. far from home?

My friends Shane Henderson and Do you tour with a full band when you Trevor Leonard (both formerly of play now?

Valencia) are both in Philadelphia, so I I do sometimes, it depends on the tour. thought it’d be a good idea to go and visit I like the flexibility of being able to tour them and do a bit of recording. both solo and as a full band.

What was the recording experience like for you?

It was very enjoyable and liberating. It was also very spread out. I did a couple of weeks in Philly to get the process going in November 2012, and then I spent two months in London recording in the summer of 2013. It wasn’t rushed, and the whole thing had time to breathe.

You cover some pretty weighty topics on this album, including the loss of your father. Have you always been comfortable sharing personal moments

PG 20 • December 2014 • insiteatlanta.com

What’s next for you?

On Monday, I head out to mainland Europe for a headline tour. I’m doing that as a full band. It will be good to get back over there, as I haven’t been since before the summer.

Those are all the questions I have.

Anything else you want to cover?

Thanks. My new album, All These Nights in Bars Will Somehow Save My Soul, is out now on Xtra Mile Recordings.

Check it out!

COLOR AND SOUND Hum-able Indie Rock that Reminds You Music is Fun

BY JOHN B. MOORE

worked in those songs, and ran with those ideas until we felt like we had a more FTER THE SMOKE CLEARED focused version of our band. from the wreckage of two Bostonbased bands, five of the former Who did you record Peace of Mind with? members decided to come together to Chris and Steve recorded both EP’s at work on the type of music they really the studio they’ve been running for a few wanted to play. years called Kennedy Studios.

Stepped in everything from Arcade Fire to the Foo Fighters, The Color and Sound Have you started thinking about doing a play a strong mix of hum-able indie rock full length yet? that reminds you that music is allowed We’ve talked about it a little and are just to be fun. The band, recently signed to sort of in the beginning Black Numbers, is about phases of working out WE LISTEN TO to release their second new songs. Sending EP (Peace of Mind) and is EVERYTHING FROM to each other, putting their first effort JENNY LEWIS TO THE demos jamming a little, demoing (Spring Tour EP) out on FOO FIGHTERS, AND out songs together, really vinyl for the first time.

FROM LED ZEPPELIN TO just getting back into Guitarist Nick Stewart spoke recently about the KATY PERRY. THAT’S the swing of writing and trying to get some rough band’s origin story, the two NOT TO SAY THERE skeletons together. releases and eventual plans AREN’T A HANDFUL OF for their first full length.

INFLUENCES WE SHARE Coming from different bands, when it comes to IN COMMON. Can you start off by writing, was it decided talking about how the early on what roles people would take or band first came together? did that just sort of evolve?

The band came together through the It’s sort of evolved, and honestly is still ending of two other bands we that we evolving.

When we started out we were were divided amongst. Ally (Mahoney), Chris (LaRocque), Joe (Aylward) and Steve jamming mostly on songs that Steve had brought in that he’d been working on for a (Aliperta) decided after their band ended few months prior to the band starting that they wanted to focus on making music we all really loved, but with the new record that was different than anything they’d there was a pretty even balance between tried before, and was more in the vein of music they’d grown to like over the years. I songs that Steve brought in versus songs essentially weaseled my way into the band, that Chris brought in. I even brought in a rough arrangement of a song that Steve having been in the other band that ended and Chris then wrote lyrics over. Moving because I knew they needed a second forward we’re looking into trying all sorts guitar player. of new ways to write and get inspired.

Peace of Mind is coming out and you are When it comes to musical influences that finally releasing the Spring Tour EP out shape your sound, do you all have pretty on vinyl. Of the two, have you noticed a similar influences or are they all over big change in the band’s sound from one the place? release to the next?

There is a bit of a range as far as what To us, the songs sound a bit more influences us. We listen to everything together and the sound feels a bit more from Jenny Lewis to the Foo Fighters, honed in on. With the first EP, we and from Led Zeppelin to Katy Perry. really didn’t know what we were doing That’s not to say there aren’t a handful of and it’s very much a hodgepodge of all influences we share in common. the different styles of music we were interested making. We sort of just tried What’s next for the band? everything. With the new EP, we’d been Right now we have some great shows writing and demoing out songs since lined up, and we’re really excited to share Spring Tour came out and took all the this new EP with anyone and everyone. qualities of it that we’d thought really

A

ART

FLEETWOOD’S KNACK

Mick Fleetwood’s Intuitive Art Goes his own Way

BY LEE VALENTINE SMITH

R

OCK AND ROLL HALL OF FAME member Mick Fleetwood is bestknown as the co-founder, drummer, songwriter and constant member of Fleetwood Mac. In addition to his lengthy tenure with the band, he’s also played with many other legendary musicians, authored two books, runs a popular restaurant in Maui and dabbles in fine wines. But his newest public project is photography, an artistic passion since his nomadic childhood in England, Egypt and Norway.

As the classic line-up of Fleetwood Mac hits the road again for a hectic, yearlong tour, four American galleries will feature exhibits of his photographs.

“Reflections,” a 30-piece exhibit, opens its only Southeastern showing on December 12 at the Ann Jackson Gallery in Roswell.

ABOUT THE GALLERY… Located in Roswell, the Gallery was founded by artist Ann Jackson in 1971.

Her three daughters carry on the business and the independent venue curates new and established artists and clients. Valerie Jackson manages the store and spoke with INsite about December’s events.

This is a rare honor for the gallery.

It really is. As Fleetwood Mac tours, this year is the first time Mick Fleetwood has ever had national gallery showings of his work, anywhere. We are honored that, while they are on a year-long tour, only four galleries across the country will have a concert in that city and a showing during the same time.

Phoenix, Dallas and Atlanta are all in a row.

These are some very personal expressions from the internationally known drummer.

Is England your main inspiration?

Well, most of it is drawn from England. I’d say it’s exclusively between Hawaii, where How do you describe your photographs?

I live, and England. I take a lot of shots of My photography is pretty much landscape- roads wherever I am; it’s part of an ongoing abound. It’s almost entirely still life. There theme. And one day there may be a show are no racecars or people hanging off of just the roads, these calm, funny roads chandeliers or in dressing rooms and stuff. and avenues that appear to disappear into Maybe there will be one day, but I’ve always the ether. Some of those are featured in the taken landscapes. Privately, of course, I take show. I remember the original shot was a what I consider “snapshots,” country lane in England, which is really just creating very much like the road a photographic diary of shot from Hawaii that’s stuff that happens. showing in the gallery.

It was from when I shot December 17 • 8pm What started your interest thousands and thousands Philips Arena in photography as art? of acres of English poppy Well, my father was fields. always the annoying one who insisted on taking When did you first exhibit December 12-21, pictures of the family. We your work?

Reception December 16 travelled, because he was in About ten years ago. In annjacksongallery.com the air force, and he always Maui, a friend of mine took pictures. And I’m very owned a gallery and, in happy that he did, because truth, almost forced me to we were all able to inherit those pictures put them on the wall. I would say, like a lot that, often, families don’t do. So I think I had of people who do stuff just for fun, “Well, the sort of gene or muscle-memory that it no one’s gonna want to see it.” But I agreed was a good thing. Later on, with the advent to do it and I had a lot of fun. This [current of me being in a band, it afforded me the exhibit] is really a cross-section of hundreds way to be able to take pictures of everything and hundreds of things that could have been around me. Then, much later on, I began to available. But I feel it’s representative of me create little paintings with the still life. That and what I do. appealed to me because it was sort of “in the moment” stuff that you tend to get lucky on. Do you enjoy the gallery openings?

I just turn up to the gallery and share some Do you have a specific technique? of the stories. I like meeting people, anyway.

I’m not super-technically adept, so I think it I’m going to be working very hard for the suits me, much like some of my approach to next year or so with Fleetwood Mac, but music, which is less is more. I’m quite happy down the road, it could be a very cool thing playing from the heart versus playing from to be showing art and then maybe do a little a technical dossier of moves that I have as a club gig with my blues band, to coincide. player. And that applies to the way I use what And make it a nice eclectic, artsy, moment I have to take my pictures. I love the fact that when I travel to some of the towns to show since the show is called “Reflections,” it does my work. feel reflective. They are calm images that are hopefully thought-provoking.

That’s very much like a Warhol Happening in the ‘60s. You could have your own And thankfully, it’s not the standard “rock Happening there at Fleetwood’s On Front star” type of show.

Street in Maui.

I’m quite pleased about that. People have You definitely could do that! As a crazy said, “Oh, we thought it was gonna be a musician, I’m always looking, even when I’m bunch of rock and roll pictures,” sort of a bit supposedly “off-duty,” because I love to play. goofy. But it’s all English countryside and In Maui, I love to play with a couple of blues flowers and stuff. bands. The art and music really go together Recently, Fleetwood spoke with INsite about the origins of his fascinating imagery.

FLEETWOOD MAC

“REFLECTIONS”

Our focus is going to be directly on him. We don’t want it to be so much about rock and roll and his band, he gets that all the time.

And yes, there are some incredible pieces in the show. We are going to open the exhibit a few days before he comes to town so everyone can enjoy them. It’ll open on Friday night the 12th of December and then it runs through Sunday the 20th. The night he’ll be here will be the night before the concert, at 6 to 9.

He’ll be the biggest celebrity you’ve hosted so far, right?

Yes! Well, so far, our biggest celebrity has been Dr. Seuss and he won’t be appearing here. The Fleetwood show is just after our newest Dr. Seuss show, actually. “The Art Of Dr. Seuss” starts on December 5. We are one of maybe 25 galleries in the world that can even show it, and we are very blessed to show these pieces. Like with the Fleetwood

well, and my restaurant is a sort of a onestop place for me to be creative.

You’ve always created cozy little gatherings, wither its Fleetwood Mac or Mick Fleetwood’s Zoo, or even these new art events. There seems to be a familial thread in all of your projects.

I think that’s true. I can’t say it was always all planned out. But if you look at Fleetwood Mac, basically, I’ve been a large part of making sure that didn’t ever completely go away. Really, it’s just the pattern of keeping something available. It’s almost like a stage area, where a lot of stuff can happen. That’s why I enjoy the restaurant, as crazy as it is, because it has a lot of similarities to what has become my whole life. My life’s work is being a drummer, but also being just a person who really thrives on having a lot of really lovely, creative stuff happen around him. Musically I like being around creative things because I don’t sing. But I consider that I’ve been around some incredibly talented people who do. I’ve created a world that I’m a part of, and it’s all a collage of change. It just has a funny way of levelling out in the end.

art, a lot of the Seuss art hasn’t been seen by the general public, either. He never sold this art or published it and it didn’t become available until after he died in 1991. So it’s a special treat for fans of both of these very different artists.

Finally, what are the details of Fleetwood’s in-store visit?

“Reflections” opens on the 12th to the public and everyone is also invited to the showing when Mick is here on the 16th.

They’ll let 30 people in at a time that night.

Then, anyone who buys a piece can meet Mick Fleetwood and he’s scheduled to give them a book and personalize it. We’re very excited!

Ann Jackson Gallery is located at 932 Canton Street in Roswell. For more info, visit www.annjacksongallery.com insiteatlanta.com • December 2014 • PG 21

HOLIDAY

40 CHRISTMAS TRADITIONS FROM AROUND THE WORLD

BY BRET LOVE

I

T’S NO SECRET AMONG FRIENDS AND family that we’re nuts for Christmas, decorating our house from wall to wall and immersing ourselves in local holiday celebrations. In fact, it’s the one time of year that we refuse to travel. But even we didn’t know much about the various Christmas traditions around the world until we began researching this story. Hope you’ll find these 50 fun Christmas facts as fascinating as we did!

1. The ORIGINS OF CHRISTMAS can be traced back to ancient pagan celebrations such as Deus Sol Invictus (observed Dec 25), the Kalends (Jan 1-5), and Saturnalia (Dec 17-23). The Christian Church disapproved of these festivals and co-opted the holidays by declaring Dec 25 as Jesus’ birthday.

10. SYRIAN CHILDREN receive gifts from one of the wise men’s camels, purported to be the youngest and smallest in the caravan, who fell down exhausted at the end of the long journey to Bethlehem.

11. According to legend, the first person to decorate a Christmas tree was Protestant reformer MARTIN LUTHER (1483-1546).

He was so moved by the beauty of stars shining between branches of a fir tree, he brought one home and decorated it with candles for his children.

12. Native to Mexico, the POINSETTIA was originally cultivated by the Aztecs, who called it Cuetlaxochitl (“flower which wilts”). The plant’s brilliant red color symbolized purity for the Aztecs, and they often used the plant to reduce fever.

2. FRUITCAKE originated in ancient Egypt, where it was considered essential for the afterlife.

church bells near midnight on Christmas Eve to announce the Devil’s demise. In England this custom was called tolling or ringing “the Devil’s knell.”

21. The CANDY CANE’S origins can be traced back to Europe circa 1670, but it didn’t appear in the U.S. until the 1800s. They were generally all white until the 1900s, when they took on a shape representing Jesus’ hook for shepherding his lambs and colors representing purity (white) and Christ’s sacrifice (red).

22. SPIDER WEBS are common Christmas tree decorations in Poland because, according to legend, a spider wove a blanket for Baby Jesus. Many Polish people consider spiders to be symbols of goodness and prosperity.

23. MISTLETOE was held sacred by the Norse, the Celtic Druids, and Native American Indians, because it remains green and bears fruit during the winter when other plants seem to die. Druids thought the plant had the power to cure infertility and nervous diseases, and to ward off evil.

24. ALABAMA was the first state to declare Christmas an official holiday, in 1836. It wasn’t declare a national holiday in the United States until 1870.

3. RUDOLPH THE RED-NOSED REINDEER was invented by Montgomery Ward copywriter Robert L. May in 1939, as a way to lure customers into the store.

4. In the MARSHALL ISLANDS, people prepare for Christmas months in advance, stockpiling gifts and dividing into jeptas, or teams, that hold song-and-dance competitions on Christmas Day. They also build a piñata-like wojke containing little presents (matches, money, soap) for God. 5. GERMANS made the very first artificial Christmas trees, using dyed goose feathers to look like needles of a pine or fir tree.

6. Bolivians celebrate MISA DEL GALLO (“Mass of the Rooster”) on Christmas Eve, with people bringing roosters to midnight mass to symbolize the belief that a rooster was the first animal to announce the birth of Jesus Christ.

7. CHRISTMAS CARDS, which originated in England, were first sent in the 1840s.

8. POPE JULIUS I, the bishop of Rome, originally proclaimed December 25 the official celebration day for Jesus’ birthday back in 350 AD. 9. The tradition of TINSEL, which was invented in Germany in 1610, is based on a legend about spiders whose web turned into silver when they were spun in a Christmas tree.

PG 22 • December 2014 • insiteatlanta.com

13. CHILDREN IN BRAZIL often receive gifts from the Magi on Three Kings Day, or Epiphany, as well as from Papai Noel on Christmas Eve. With no use for chimneys in the tropical climate, they believe Papai Noel enters via the front door, and travels via helicopter rather than a reindeer-drawn sleigh.

14. It takes CHRISTMAS TREES around 15 years to grow to 6-8 feet. There are approximately 30-35 million Christmas trees grown annually.

15. Because of their pagan associations, holly, ivy, and other evergreen boughs conventionally used for holiday home decoration were banned by the sixth-century CHRISTIAN COUNCIL OF BRAGA. 16. FRANKLIN PIERCE, the 14th President of the U.S., became the first President to put a Christmas tree in the White House. Teddy Roosevelt banned the practice during his presidency, for environmental reasons.

25. In GUATEMALA’S VILLAGES, local men in devil costumes appear on the streets and chase children during rhe first week of Advent. The Devil’s reign ends on December 7 with a folk ritual known as La Quema del Diablo (“The Burning of the Devil”), where people pile objects they no longer want or need in front of their houses, scatter firecrackers on top of the heap, and set fire to it.

26. According to Italian legend, a kind witch called “LA BEFANA” flies around on her broomstick on the night of January 5th, bringing gifts to worthy children and lumps of coal to the naughty ones.

27. In Greek culture, KISSING under the mistletoe was considered an unspoken promise to marry your mate.

19. According to Greek legend, malicious goblins called “KALLIKANTZARI” would come up from their underground homes on December 25th, and would play tricks on humans until the 6th of January. You could get rid of them by burning logs or old shoes, or hanging sausages or sweetmeats in the chimney.

20. According to old English folk tales, the DEVIL died when Jesus was born. So some towns developed a tradition of ringing the

32. In spite of ETHIOPIA’S Christian heritage, Christmas is not an important holiday there. Most people actually call the holiday Ganna or Genna after a hockeylike ball game played only once a year, on Christmas afternoon.

33. CHRISTMAS PUDDING was originally more than just a tasty treat. Small items such as coins (wealth) and buttons (bachelorhood) were put inside, and supposedly foretold what the New Year would bring.

34. The Norwegian tradition of JULBUKK, or “Christmas goat,” finds groups of costumed people walking through their neighborhood on Christmas Day, entertaining people with songs in exchange for treats. These groups will bring a goat along or have someone impersonate a goat’s typically unruly behavior. If two costumed goats meet, they’ll often engage in a play fight to entertain the crowd.

35. George Frederick Handel’s timeless Christmas classic, “THE MESSIAH”, was first performed in Dublin, Ireland in 1742.

36. Though only 2% of the nation’s population is Christian, Christmas is a national holiday in INDIA, and even nonChristians observe folk traditions such as lighting oil lamps along the perimeter of the home’s courtyard or roof.

37. Composed in 1857 by James Pierpont, “JINGLE BELLS” was actually written for Thanksgiving, and was originally called “One Horse Open Sleigh.”

38. In Estonia, people believed that the first visitor on Christmas, called the “FIRSTFOOTER,” would determine the household’s luck. Dark-haired men were seen as desirable firstfooters, but women and fair-haired or red-headed men were often deemed unlucky.

17. The city of Riga, Latvia holds the claim as home to history’s first decorated CHRISTMAS TREE, back in 1510.

18. YULE, which is also called Winter Solstice, is the longest night of the year and the time of greatest darkness. Some scholars believe the word yule means “revolution” or “wheel,” symbolizing the cyclical return of the sun.

poor sisters who couldn’t afford a marriage dowry. The wealthy Bishop Saint Nicholas of Smyrna (modern-day Turkey) saved them from a life of prostitution by sneaking down their chimney and filling their stockings with gold coins.

28. Early illustrations of SANTA CLAUS pictured him as a stern, commanding disciplinarian holding a birch rod. The jolly old elf we know and love today was created by artist Haddon Sundblom for a Coca-Cola ad.

29. Puritan OLIVER CROMWELL made Christmas illegal in England from 1647-1660, claiming it was immoral to hold a celebration on one of the year’s holiest days.

30. In AUSTRIA, farmers traditionally chalk the initials of the Three Wise Men on the archway above stable doors.

31. The tradition of hanging CHRISTMAS STOCKINGS allegedly began with three

39. Long before there were Christmas trees, the pagans revered EVERGREENS as symbols of eternal life and rebirth.

40. In Costa Rica, the Christmas flower is the ORCHID.

Video Games from page 10

“Traptanium.” Of course the game is just one element: The Starter Pack also includes a Traptanium Portal, 2 Skylanders figures, a poster, sticker sheets, trading cards and more.

TALES OF HEARTS R (Bandai Namco) Platform: Vita The 11th entry in the Tales series is an action RPG originally released on Nintendo DS in Japan back in 2008. The story follows protagonist Kor Meteor and a woman named Kohaku Hearts, who is attacked and infected with a monster called a Xerom. When Kor attempts to cure her, he accidentally shatters her essence and scatters its pieces. Together, he and her brother journey to restore her spirit. It’s a beautiful anime story, with gorgeous 3D environments and a redesigned battle system that makes for a thrilling adventure.

ROCKSMITH 2014 (PS4)

Platforms: PS4, XOne Finally being released on next-gen platforms, Rocksmith 2014 allows players to plug in any guitar or bass, choose from over 50 songs, and start playing along. Features such as Session Mode (which allow up to 2 players to jam with a virtual band) and Instant Riff Repeater (which focuses on difficult sections of a song) make this the ultimate music-related video game, educational, entertaining and invigorating.

SKYLANDERS TRAP TEAM (Activision)

Platforms: 3DS, PS3, PS4, Tablet, Wii, WiiU, X360, XOne The 21st century’s answer to Pokemon only seems to grow more and more popular. In the latest sequel, Kaos has blown up Cloudcracker Prison and freed a litany of dangerous villains, leaving it up to the Skylanders to capture them using

Albums from page 15 Released at a point when emo, screamo and pop punk were having an inexplicable revival in the early aughts, upstate New York’s Coheed and Cambria managed to sneak into the party when no one was watching the door, playing an impressive mix of prog rock and metal with a subtle inclusion of pop. The band drew influences and comparisons to everyone from At the Drive In to Rush (the comparisons between Coheed’s Claudio Sanchez and Rush’s Geddy Lee were inevitable given the high register both employ). And while they had very few obvious musical peers at the time, their broad appeal led to tours with everyone from Linkin Park to Slipknot.

Their sophomore effort, In Keeping Secrets of Silent Earth: 3, pretentious title aside, was a fantastic surge of originality into a music scene that was swamped with carbon copies of mediocre bands. Re-released on vinyl, thanks to a partnership with Equal Vision, Columbia and Legacy, the album is getting a second chance to impress. And it stands up remarkably well, 11 years later. The release is timed with the band’s North American tour where they will be playing the LP in its entirety. There are a couple of regretful spots on the album, in particular the tired and unnecessary use of screamed background vocals on a few songs (a dreadful trend at the time that has thankfully, mostly slipped away) that threated to sink otherwise great songs like “Three Evils.” The album’s biggest single at the time, “A Favor House Atlantic,” is still the strongest track here, but the album as a whole, had plenty of other songs that are nearly as powerful. Though vinyl re-release can seem like little more than a poor excuse to shake a little more cash out of fans, In Keeping Secrets… is a made for record players, that rare album that needs to be listened to from start to finish, in the right sequence, to really be enjoyed. B

The Antics

Send it Out

(Northern Front Records)

On first listen, you’d swear the trio The Antics came out of some dreary old mill town in Northern England, playing alongside the early ‘80s bands on Rough Trade and The Factory. In reality, this band is from Central Jersey and rather than being grizzled vets sharing stories about opening for Joy Division and Gang of Four, judging from their band photo, they are just years, if not months out of high school. Their sixsong EP Send it Out, is impressive more in its influence than the actual songs here. Yes, it’s decent Post-Punk that brings to mind the first couple of Echo & the Bunnymen records and The Cure, but the songs are easily forgotten seconds after they end.

And it should be noted that Echo & The Bunnymen and The Cure both managed to evolve their sound over decades, whereas The Antics seem to just be borrowing a sound others created. The band gets credit for going deep into the stacks for influences, but ultimately the EP isn’t strong enough to stick with – even with only six songs competing for your time. C+ insiteatlanta.com • December 2014 • PG 23

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OUR FAVORITE THINGS – 2014 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

BY BRET LOVE

I

FOR THE love Christmas like a fat kid loves cake. FASHIONISTA…

But the older I get, the more I believe that it’s better to give than receive.

Here are a few of our favorite ideas for the people on your holiday gift list:

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varietals from Italy, including Luce della Vite “Luce” 2011 (made from 45% Sangiovese and 55% Merlot), the Tuscan Marchesi de’ Frescobaldi Castelgiocondo Brunello di Montalcino DOCG (100% Sangiovese), Piemonte’s Damilano Barolo Cannubi 2009 (100% Nebbiolo), and Umbria’s Arnaldo Caprai Collepiano Sagrantino (100% Sagrantino). I’m no connoisseur, but my oenophile lady loved them all.

a “candy store for grownups.” Their Breakfast For Champions “cereal killers” line will certainly make you feel like a kid again. With Cheerios, Corn Flakes or Cocoa Krispies encased in milk or dark chocolate, the only thing missing are the Saturday morning cartoons.

Our family isn’t big on “stuff,” but when we do shop we make it meaningful.

DUNE JEWELRY (dunejewelrydesign.com) FOR THE SKI BUM/BUNNY… FOR THE CHRISTMAS FANATIC… offers sterling silver items Why walk in a winter wonderland I don’t often embrace my inner geek, but personalized with sand when you can ski/snowboard it? The the holidays are like a one-month pass to from one of hundreds Subculture from K2 be as tacky as you wanna be. The Holiday Orvis SNOWBOARDING (en-us. of beaches around the world. Last year Reindeer Pullover I gave my lady a pendant k2snowboarding.com) is a Sweater from FESTIFIED Festified filled with sand from Sanibel classic, with a Precision(festified.com), which Island, our favorite vacation Lifted flat, tight handling also has matching spot. This year my daughter and a stable feel that makes “sweggings” for the ladies, gets earrings made from it the perfect all-mountain carefully treads the thin olive shells we found there, board for Intermediate FOR THE TRAVELER… line dividing cool from bringing back memories of riders. Pair it with K2’s For someone who works kitschy, with an antique our summer trip.

PhotoAntic DLX Goggles– in digital media, I’m old ski lodge look and cozy The ALL THE ABOVE which boast a large-format school: I don’t even own comfort that practically (ata-clothing.com) line is lens, micro fleece-lined a smartphone. My love of demands an accessorized fashion with face foam and crisp lens optics– for a all things classic extends cup of hot cocoa. purpose, budget-friendly snowboarding outfit. to the Atlantic Crossing For Liquor I’ve been accused of offering men’s and I recently discovered STIO (stio.com), Travel Clock from ORVIS Lovers... going full-bore Clark Griswold with my women’s clothing that a Jackson Hole-based apparel brand (orvis.com), a timeless Christmas lights, so it’s no surprise I’m a supports charitable efforts perfectly in-tune with my love stainless steel huge fan of BLISS LIGHTS (blisslights. by providing a platform of the outdoors. Their Men’s clock that opens com). Their Spright model comes in and revenue stream. Their Vascent Jacket was named Best into a triangular green and red, projecting thousands of Free The Girls Hoodie in Class 2014 by Gear Institute: setup. With ancient pin-points of colored light that provides was designed to represent Its stretch woven outer shell and maps adorning the a festive “fire fly” effect, inside or out. It women trapped in slavery, interior, it looks like bonded micro fleece lining makes will definitely get your with 100% something you’d see it impressively wind-resistant neighbors’ attention! of proceeds donated to Free next to Russell Crowe’s bed in yet breathable, perfect for skiing, The Girls, which provides Master & Commander. hiking, or climbing glaciers.

FOR THE FOODIE… job opportunities for sex Based in Portland, TORRAIN We wrote about the Heritage For my money, good trafficking survivors.

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Outdoor Performance line food is the best gift of More practical than org) is a globally conscious K2 Snowboarding from English outerwear all. Last year we fell sociopolitical, THE NORTH brand that partners with artisans pioneer CRAGHOPPERS (us. in love with MEYER Meyer Natural Foods FACE (thenorthface.com) in Cambodia– many of whom craghoppers.com) in our Fall NATURAL FOODS is known as an outdoor have been displaced, or affected by polio Fashion feature. But their new Ashby (meyernaturalfoods. adventure brand. But their women’s or land mines– to create their Angkor Parka boasts a more modern style perfect com), whose cattle are raised on an Pseudio Jacket is as sleek and stylish as it line. The water-resistant materials were for the slopes or the ski lodge, with a all-natural diet. Their succulent Angus is cozy and comfortable, with a heather originally used to transport animal textured cotton outer shell, detachable Steak Sampler– an 8-oz Filet Mignon, fabric outside and soft fleece lining inside feed, rice and cement. Now they’ve faux fur-trimmed hood, waterproof liner 10-oz Top Sirloin, 14-oz New York Strip to keep you warm even been recycled into durable and wadded insulation that keeps both and 16-oz Ribeye, all USDA Prime– is when Jack Frost starts duffels, messengers, totes and cold and wet comfortably at bay. currently 30% off, and comes in a thermal- nipping at your nose. handbags, with vibrant colors insulated gift bag we use every time we go that truly stand out.

FOR THE HOST/HOSTESS… grocery shopping.

FOR THE IMBIBER… We were introduced to GRACE For friends and family too busy to cook A few years ago I cut FOR THE CHOCOHOLIC… HIGHTOWER & COFFEES OF from scratch, there’s “The Tasteful Gift” RWANDA (coffeeofgrace.com) this time down on alcohol due to With two ladies in my from OMAHA STEAKS (omahasteaks. last year, but unfortunately the brand stomach problems. But house, I’ve learned to com). The generous package comes with (started by Robert as I drank less, I sought For the Oenophiles...

ALWAYS keep two 5-oz Filet Mignons, two 5-oz Top Grace Hightower & Coffees DeNiro’s wife) out better quality. Our chocolate on Sirloins, four 4-oz Burgers, four Stuffed didn’t have a gift favorite brand this year is FOUR ROSES hand. But Christmas is the Baked Potatoes and four decadent set available at the BOURBON (fourrosesbourbon.com), perfect time to stock up Chocolate Molten Lava Cakes. It’s like time. This year they named Whiskey Distiller of the Year four on the good stuff, such as getting several full meals in a box, and it’s do, and their Coffee years out of the last five. Their Single the classic 12, 24, or 36currently on sale for half-price ($70).

Connoisseur Deluxe Barrel Bourbon is smooth and mellow yet pc. Signature Chocolate We discovered SARTORI CHEESE Gift Box offers java full-bodied, with fruity hints of plums and Truffles Gift Box from (sartoricheese.com) at the 2013 Atlanta lovers a chance to cherries and a spicy aroma of cocoa and GODIVA (godiva.com). With Cheese Festival. We were delighted with buy a 4-pack of good maple. Beats Jim Beam by a mile! flavors ranging from Aztec their impressive Limited Edition Gift coffee for a great I loved the award-winning Reserva Spice and Birthday Cake to Basket, which comes in a handsome Exclusiva from DIPLOMATICO RUM Hazelnut Crunch and Salted Caramel, it’s a cause, supporting ethical, sustainable wooden crate and contains five of fair trade farming in Rwanda. All four (rondiplomatico.com), deliciously decadent way their award-winning cheeses (Cognac varietals are smooth and offer impeccable but there’s no way my to tell someone they’re on Godiva BellaVitano, Cannella BellaVitano, flavor, with notes ranging from citrus to description could be your “Nice” list. DARK Peppermint BellaVitano, Pastorale Blend, chocolate. more vivid than theirs: SECRET CHOCOLATE and Extra Aged Goat cheese) as well We’ve written about THE SPICE LAB “Has a characterful (darksecretchocolate. as wine charms, a cutting board, and a (thespicelab.com) line of seasonings in nose, showing fruitcake, com) was selected for cheese knife. the past, and use their sea salts and spicy rum-raisin ice cream, Oprah’s Favorite Things Foodie subscription service TRY THE pepper sets constantly. Now they’ve cocoa, dried ginger, two years ago, and it’s WORLD (trytrheworld.com) encourages introduced three 12-tube Gourmet Tea cinnamon and clove. been one of my lady’s people to discover the planet’s cultures Collections, featuring Infused Teas, Asian Develops baked bananas faves ever since. Their through food. There are 1-month, Teas and British Teas packaged in Pyrex with fudge sauce and 30-day boxes come in 6-month and 12-month packages, with tubes with cork stoppers and displayed in chewy toffee notes portions designed to be a box of 7-10 goodies from a different a beautiful wooden base. Named a finalist alongside vanilla oak and a deeper note of 90 calories or less per day, with flavors country sent every two months. Their in the Best New Products- Gourmet syrupy gingerbread, with hints of orange such as Almond Sea Salt, Cacao Nibs, Holiday Box is delicious, including Urbani zest.” In short, it’s damn tasty!

Accessories category at the 2014 Summer Espresso Beans and Tart Cherry.

Tartufi Truffles (Italian), Code de Leite NY NOW gift show, these set are as ’Tis the season to be jolly… and wine is a New to us this year is CHOCOLATE spread (Brazilian), Favarger Chocolates attractive as the tea is delicious. In our great way to get there. We were fortunate BAR (chocolatebarnyc.com), a New (Swiss), Rip Van Wafels (Dutch) and more. to sample some of the season’s best York-based brand that touts itself as eyes, this line can do no wrong.

PG 24 • December 2014 • insiteatlanta.com

HOLIDAY

Sparkling for the Holidays!

DISNEY’S MAGIC KINGDOM

(DISNEY WORLD)

Disney World, SeaWorld and Universal Orlando

BY MARCI MILLER

T

HERE IS NO BETTER WAY TO CELEBRATE the holidays then a trip to Orlando to visit the theme parks. Join Queen Elsa from Frozen at Walt Disney World Resort, Arctic Penguins at Sea World Orlando and Harry Potter at Universal Studios Orlando as all the parks deck their halls in a spectacular, holiday style!

Pack up the family, and make the trip south to the ultimate winter wonderland.

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This year Santa’s elves have transformed Magic Kingdom into a winter wonderland with festive wreaths, bows, garland, sparkling lights, parades and towering Christmas trees.

The fun includes Holiday Wishes: Celebrate the Spirit of the Season nighttime fireworks spectacular, plus live entertainment with Disney characters all dressed up for the holidays.

Queen Elsa from Frozen will use her incredible powers to transform Cinderella Castle into an ice palace for the holidays, thanks to a special effects spectacle bathing the castle in 200,000 shimmering white lights. Magic Kingdom guests are treated nightly to the dramatic Castle Dream Lights celebration and A Frozen Holiday Wish stage show.

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party runs through December 19 with lively stage shows featuring Disney characters in their holiday best, a unique holiday parade and holiday traditions including complimentary cookies and hot cocoa, and snow flurries on Main Street, U.S.A. For the first time Princess Anna, Queen Elsa, Kristoff and Olaf from Frozen will join the festive procession, Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade, along with a flurry of skiers and ice cutters from the Kingdom of Arendelle. From December 20-31, the Christmastime Parade runs in place of Disney Festival of Fantasy Parade. The fun continues with a holiday “Celebrate the Magic” castle projection show and Holiday Wishes: Celebrate the Spirit of the Season nighttime fireworks spectacular.

Guests at Disney’s Hollywood Studios can also sing along to Frozen songs with Queen Elsa, Princess Anna, Kristoff and the Royal Historians of Arendelle daily during the Frozen Sing-Along Celebration. The Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights is also back this year with a massive seasonal display featuring millions of dancing lights, plus animated displays and 3-D effects synchronized to electrifying holiday tunes amidst snowfall.

The Candlelight Processional at Epcot is one of the most beloved holiday traditions with the joyous retelling of the Christmas story by a celebrity narrator, accompanied by a 50-piece orchestra and mass choir. Among new celebrity narrators this year is Jonathan Groff, who voiced the rugged mountain man Kristoff in Frozen. Other celebrity readers include Neil Patrick Harris, Whoopi Goldberg, Ana Gasteyer, Joe Morton and more. JOYFUL! A Gospel Celebration of the Season blends the soulful expressiveness of Gospel and inspirational music with the sounds of jazz, R&B and urban music daily through December 29. IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth incorporates a unique finale celebrating the season with a special message of peace and good. Guests can also celebrate each country’s holiday traditions with storytellers and entertainment during Holidays Around the World.

For more information, visit Disneyworld.com or the MyDisneyExperience mobile app.

UNIVERSAL ORLANDO

Holidays at Universal Orlando features one-of-a-kind traditions for visitors this year. At Universal’s Islands of Adventure, families will light up with holiday cheer as Grinchmas comes to life throughout Seuss Landing. Guests can enjoy a live retelling of Dr. Seuss’s classic holiday tale, Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular, featuring the Whos from Who-ville, accompanied by an original musical score by Mannheim Steamroller. You may also meet The Grinch and the Whos and on select dates and enjoy a special breakfast with the characters.

At Universal Studios Florida, the Macy’s Holiday Parade will fill the streets every evening with the same larger- thanlife balloons seen in Macy’s famous Thanksgiving Day Parade

in New York City. Guests will also enjoy colorful holiday characters, fantasy-filled floats and a tree-lighting ceremony

by Santa Claus.

The masters of modern Christmas music, Mannheim Steamroller, will return to the stage to spread Christmas cheer. All theme park holiday entertainment—including Mannheim Steamroller—is included with Park-to-Park admission to Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure.

During their holiday experience, guests can also enjoy the extraordinary attractions and entertainment that can only be found at Universal Orlando’s two theme parks including the all-new The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley at Universal Studios. This incredibly immersive area features shops, dining experiences and the next generation thrill ride, Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts and expands upon The Wizarding of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade, found at Islands of Adventure. Guests with Park-to-Park admission can journey between both lands aboard the Hogwarts Express, the iconic steam locomotive from the Harry Potter books and films.

At Universal’s CityWalk, guests can experience a dynamic New Year’s Eve celebration which includes nonstop entertainment, unique party zones—each with their own entertainment and signature drinks—along with six different clubs with live music, unlimited gourmet cuisine, and Orlando’s largest dance floor.

For more information on the Holidays at Universal Orlando, vacation packages and ticket offers, visit UniversalOrlando. com/holidays

DISNEY’S A FROZEN HOLIDAY WISH

(DISNEY WORLD)

UNIVERSAL’S GRINCHMAS WHO-LIDAY SPECTACULAR SHAMU CHRISTMAS (SEAWORLD)

SEAWORLD ORLANDO

Waves of holiday spirit splash over the park during SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration™. SeaWorld invites guests to experience the beauty of their Shamu family at their nighttime holiday show, Shamu® Christmas Miracles.

Thrilling seasonal music rings out as whales soar through the air in a story of reflection and understanding. O Wondrous Night shares the greatest story never told, with more than 30 carols, based upon The Christmas Story and told through the eyes of a variety of live animals. Winter Wonderland on Ice celebrates the magic of Christmas as skaters dazzle and delight in this show-stopping, ice skating extravaganza. Elmo’s Christmas Wish will become your child’s favorite show. Join Rosita, Grover, Zoe and Cookie Monster as they work together to help Elmo find his Christmas wish! Experience playful penguins at the South Pole while visiting the park’s newest attraction, Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin®!

Holiday Reflections: Fireworks and Fountains Finale, features soaring fountains, dazzling lights, and festive fireworks, choreographed to joyous holiday musical favorites. At the Wild Arctic® attraction, guests embark on an extraordinary journey to the North Pole aboard The Polar Express Experience. The beloved holiday classic comes to life as you and your family are immersed in the heart-warming story of a young boy’s thrilling ride into an enchanted world. The amazing Sea of Trees includes more than 100 massive trees, each sparkling, lighted and choreographed to classic holiday tunes. The Christmas Market, located on the park’s Bayside Pathway, features unique artisans and culinary delights. Plus, enjoy a delicious dinner of Christmas favorites with Santa and Mrs. Claus during Santa’s Fireside Feast, an all-you-care-to-eat menu of holiday favorites and delicious desserts takes place on select days during SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration.

New this year are Christmas Show Seating Packages.

Christmas Show Seating provides guests with reserved seating at Shamu® Christmas Miracles, O Wondrous Night, and Winter Wonderland on Ice, plus front-of-the-line access to The Polar Express Experience. In addition, visitors can take a Christmas Family Fun Tour. Experience the favorite attractions for children at SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration™ during this 3-hour walking tour.

All events are included with park admission. For great savings, check out the Kids Free Christmas Vacation Package, get a free ticket for kids 3-9 with each paid adult ticket. Visit SeaWorldOrlando.com for the latest details about SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration.

So don’t wait to make your holiday plans in Orlando as space at area hotels is filling up fast. For more information, and to help in your planning, visit Orlandoinfo.com.

UNIVERSAL’S MACY’S HOLIDAY PARADE

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ACK IN EARLY AUGUST, WE SAID that Florida State, Alabama, Ohio State and Stanford would make up the inaugural College Football Playoff class, with the Seminoles ultimately hoisting the trophy in the January 12 title game at Arlington’s AT&T Stadium. Beyond the Cardinal call, the forecast wasn’t all that bad. The other three could still conceivably have their names read on the December 7 announcement show, but we’re thinking only the Crimson Tide will survive.

Florida State will be upset by Georgia Tech in the ACCEtitle D: game. A hobbling Ohio State OT won’tVdo enough against Wisconsin in the Big Ten Championship. Keeping all of that in mind, here’s how we see the final four — Alabama, Oregon, TCU and Baylor — shaking out early next month.

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Hot NEW Adult Movie Titles BACK IN STOCK! Pre-Stuffed Naughty Stockings & Giftcards!

10% Off Total w/Toy Donation We beat all competitor’s advertised prices by 10%. (excludes online.)

22 Locations: 404.766.6993 24/7: ShopStarship.com Christmas Week: Come & Pick Your FREE GIFT! w/$50 Purchase insiteatlanta.com • December 2014 • PG 27

Tuesdays:

$5 PITCHERS OF BEER (PBR Pitchers all week long)

Tuesdays & Thursdays: TRIVIA

LET US DO THE COOKING FOR YOUR HOLIDAY PARTY!

CALL 404-849-2283 TO PLACE YOUR ORDER TODAY!

DAILY LUNCH SPECIALS FROM $6.85 CHESHIRE BRIDGE 1810 CHESHIRE BRIDGE RD. 404-874-8304 e Magazin sit

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WE DELIVER!

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Best of Atlanta

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2014

(after 5 PM)

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Candler Park Midtown 7 Days a Week 7 AM — 10 PM 1655 McLendon Ave. | 404.687.8888 1001 Piedmont Ave. | 404.874.8887

WINNER!

#1 Chinese Restaurant in Atlanta PARTY PLANNING JUST GOT A WHOLE LOT EASIER! Healthy Vegetarian Items Always Available

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IN

Best of Atlanta 2014

WINNER!

Subs from $3.49 All Day! www.baldinos.us

DELIVERY (LIMITED AREA; MIN $10) CARRY OUT • CATERING • FULL BAR SERVICE

WWW.CHINCHINATLANTA.COM

Doraville 5697 Buford Hwy. 770-455-8570

Begins at 8pm

IN

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2014

IN

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2014

Beginning at 9am

WINNER!

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Best of Atlanta

• Burger Wednesdays • Brunch Weekends

Best of Atlanta

WINNER!

Voted BEST in Atlanta

• TRIVIA TUESDAYS

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2014

VOTED BEST SUBS IN ATLANTA

Serving the Best Pints in Atlanta!

Showing College & NFL English Premier League

Best of Atlanta

IN

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

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3887 PEACHTREE RD • 404-816-2229 • BUCKHEAD/BROOKHAVEN

WINNER!

Catering Available

N. Decatur Plaza • 404.320.0101 Corner of N. Decatur & Clairmont

Midtown • 404.917.1100 10th and Monroe

East Cobb / Marietta 1255 Johnson Ferry Rd. Market Plaza • 678.996.0045

HOURS FOR STORES: Mon–Sat: 11am–9:30pm Sun: 11am–9pm www. mediterraneangrill .com

Authentic Middle Eastern and Greek Cuisine Cooked Fresh to Order • Dine In / Carry Out

The Elder Tree Public House

469 Flat Shoals Ave. East Atl • www.eldertreeatl.com • 404-658-6108

FIND GREAT GIFT IDEAS! Locally Blown Glass

Hand-blown Bubblers

Pax Vaporizer No. 7 Company electronic cigarettes

HOOKAHS Starting at $24.95

DETOX PRODUCTS

PIPES

POSTERS

SELF DEFENSE PRODUCTS

CIGARS & CIGARETTES

BODY JEWELRY

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Best of Atlanta

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ROSWELL: 710 Holcomb Br. Rd. #240 • 770-992-4485 SANDY SPRINGS: 6125 Roswell Rd. Suite 101A, 101B • 404-256-1116 ACWORTH: 3466 Cobb Pkwy Suite 120 • 770-974-5585 NEW LOCATION WOODSTOCK: 8265 Hwy 92 Suite 108 • 678-445-5550

IN

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WINNER!

ALL STORES OPEN 10A-2A EVERY DAY • WWW.SHOPSMOKE911.COM