INsite July 2013 Issue

JULY 2013

INSITEATLANTA.COM

VOL. 21, NO. 12 FREE

Adam Ant Nick Lachey The Black Crowes O’Brother Man or Astroman Super Chikan

Summer

MusicIssue Top Albums and Upcoming Festivals

ATLANTA

Celebra

40 Yeating Of Liv rs e Music

Sun: June 30

Fri: July 5

CIRQuE MuSICa Atlanta symphony Orchestra Jere Flint, conductor

July 16 & 17

phISh

Sat: July 20

Fri: July 26

STRaIghT nO ChaSER

Sat: June 29

JuST IMagInE –

all-aMERICan CElEbRaTIOn

Atlanta symphony

Orchestra Jere Flint, conductor Vocalists Fireworks spectacular!

Fri: July 19

Fri: June 28

RObERT planT

pRESEnTS ThE SEnSaTIOnal SpaCE ShIfTERS Bombino

ThE blaCK CROwES TEDESChI TRuCKS banD

With Atlanta symphony Orchestra

Sat: July 6

in association with

July 10

summer soul Jam

ThE STylISTICS / ThE ManhaTTanS / hEaTwaVE Plus more!

Aug 15

ThE KIllERS

Aug 17

ChICagO

Sat: Aug 24

STS9 uMphREy’S MCgEE

LABOR DAY!

Sep 2

B.B. king / sonny Landreth special Guest Larry Carlton

allMan bROThERS banD Grace Potter & The Nocturnals

Sat: sep 7

STEEly Dan

Sat: sep 28

fall OuT bOy

Oct 8

fun.

Fri: Oct 25

JOhn fOgERTy

Panic! At The Disco twenty one pilots

VZWAmP.COm Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre at encore Park is owned and operated by the Atlanta symphony Orchestra, a community-supported organization.

Sun: July 21

yES

Playing All Her Hits!

Playing Three Albums in Their entirety

Sun: July 28

“wEIRD al” yanKOVIC

Sat: sep 14

pET ShOp bOyS

Sun: sep 15

JOE SaTRIanI

Sun: Oct 13

MIChaEl MCDOnalD

anITa baKER

Oct 16

VIEnna bOyS ChOIR

Fri: Oct 18

From The NBC TV show “The Voice”

Fri: July 19

with special guest

Sat: July 20

yaChT ROCK REVuE

ChRIS Mann

** This is a no table setup show. Coolers and carry-ins are not allowed.**

With Atlanta symphony Orchestra

gIpSy KIngS Under The Sun

SMaSh MOuTh / SugaR Ray / gIn blOSSOMS / VERTICal hORIzOn / faSTball

With

The steve morse Band

bObby bROwn, JOhnny gIll & Ralph TRESVanT

Sun: Dec 22

CElTIC wOMan

With Atlanta symphony Orchestra

KanSaS / TOTO

Aug 14 Fri: Aug 16

Sat: Aug 17

Aug 12

sunset Jazz

gEORgE DuKE / wIll DOwnIng / naJEE sunset Jazz

ERIC bEnéT / bRIan CulbERTSOn / RaChEllE fERREll / hIROShIMa The LP Tour 4 Great Bands Playing 4 Great Records Front To Back

bIg hEaD TODD anD ThE MOnSTERS / SOul aSyluM / ThE waIlERS / MaTThEw SwEET

* This is a no table setup show. Coolers and carry-ins are not allowed.**

Fri: Aug 23

ChEECh & ChOng

Aug 28

DICKEy bETTS &

War / Tower Of Power

gREaT SOuThERn /

buy yOuR TICKETS nOw! Tickets to ASO Presents events can be purchased at: • Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre box office • Woodruff Arts Center box office • Delta Classic Chastain box office the night of an ASO Presents concert • All Ticketmaster outlets • On-line at TiCkeTmAsTer.COm • Charge-by-phone 1.800.745.3000 • make it A Group! 404.733.4848 Concerts take place rain or shine. Artists and schedules are subject to change.

All sales final. No exchanges or refunds.

OuTlawS / Wet Willie

Fri: sep 13

ChaRlIE wIlSOn with special guest

Sat: sep 28

Pandora Jewelry presents

MaRTIna MCbRIDE with special guest

Sat: Oct 5

SIguR RóS

* This is a no table setup show. Coolers and carry-ins are not allowed.**

DeLTACLAssiCHAsTAiN.COm Delta Classic Chastain Concerts promoted by AsO Presents support the Atlanta symphony Orchestra.

PG 2 • July 2013 • insiteatlanta.com

CynDI laupER

After 7 / Al B. sure! / Color me Badd

baREnaKED laDIES bEn fOlDS fIVE guSTER

pETER fRaMpTOn

July 2

Sat: Aug 10

Aug 13

JOan RIVERS

hEaDS Of STaTE:

Last summer On earth 2013

Little Big Town Dustin Lynch

Sat: June 29

Sat: July 13

Fri: Aug 9

KEITh uRban

MaxwEll

The London souls

Sat: July 27

a SyMphOnIC TRIbuTE TO JOhn lEnnOn STaRRIng TIM pIpER

SYMPHONY HALL

MaKIng a DIffEREnCE ThROugh MuSIC

AsO Presents, a part of the Atlanta symphony Orchestra, a not-for-profit organization that brings the transformative power of live music to the southeast through concerts, education and community programs.

CONTENTS • JULY 2013 • VOLUME 21, NO. 12

You Haven’t Seen a Movie Until You’ve Seen One At The Fox!

Atlanta’s

Entertainment Monthly

INTERVIEWS 06 10 12 15 21 23 24 25 27 27 28 28 29

Nick Lachey Red 2 Adam Ant Bruce Kulick Kevin Hart Super Chikan The Black Crowes Man or Astroman Restorations Man Overboard The Thermals Speedy Ortiz O’Brother

06 Django Unchained July 26 - 7:30 PM The Croods July 27 - 2:00 PM Lawrence of Arabia July 28 - 4:00 PM Iron Man 3 Aug.16 - 7:30 PM Saturday Morning Cartoons Aug. 17 - 10:00 AM TBA Aug.17 - 7:30 PM Breakfast at Tiffany’s Aug.18 - 4:00 PM Zombieland Aug. 29 - 7:30 PM

12

FEATURES 08 09 11 16 22 26

TICKETS ON SALE NOW!

Guide to EAV Atlanta’s Best BBQ July 4 Fireworks Shows Summer Music Preview Music Venue Guide Travel to Galapagos

$5 Parking

Delta logo artwork with register mark

Available in Select Area Lots Delta_c_r.eps

Delta_k_r.eps

Delta_w_r.eps

COLUMNS 04 05 05 07 13 14 19 20 20 30 30

Around Town On Tap On A Dime Events Under The Lights Movie Reviews Album Reviews Concert Calendar Road Warriors We Got Next Favorite Things Fanatic

16

NATIONAL BLACK ARTS FESTIVAL 25Th ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION J U LY 6 T h R U S E P T. 1 4 , 2 0 1 3

oin us for a spectacular, three-month long Festival, unlike any Jthroughout in NBAF history. Get ready for Unexpected Encounters with NBAF the city, and exciting new programming with fresh

21

www.insiteatlanta.com STAFF LISTING Publisher Stephen Miller steve@insiteatlanta.com Managing Editor Bret Love bret@insiteatlanta.com Art Director / Web Design Nick Tipton graphics@insiteatlanta.com Sports Editor DeMarco Williams demarco@insiteatlanta.com Local Events Editor Marci Miller marci@insiteatlanta.com Music Editor John Moore john@insiteatlanta.com

Follow us on the web!

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, Lee Valentine Smith, Amanda Miles, Patrick Flanary, Ian Coverdale CONTACT US 130 West Wieuca Road, Ste. 111 Atlanta, GA 30342 phone (404) 256-4328 • website insiteatlanta.com ADVERTISING INFORMATION (404) 256-4328 • advertising@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 2013, Be Bop Publishing, Inc. All Rights Reserved

Check out our Summer Music feature on page 16!

JULY 2013

INSITEATLAN TA.COM

VOL. 21, NO. 12 FREE

perspectives on the art and culture of people of African descent.

This Silver Anniversary celebration includes a dynamic series of programs that highlight emerging ideas, projects and artists; as well as our beloved signature programming, such as the Pan African Film Festival, the Legends Celebration and NBAF family events.

As always, most of our programs are free and open to the public.

Our ticketed programs are reasonably priced — including special rates for groups of 10 more — so bring your family, friends, classmates, co-workers, church groups, social clubs, professional and Greek organizations, and...

LET ThE CELEBRATION BEGIN!

GET YOUR TICKETS NOW AT NBAF.ORG

Adam Ant Nick Lachey The Black Crowes O’Brother Man or Astroman Super Chikan

Summer

MusiIsscue Top Albums and Upcomin g Festivals

®

NBAF receives major public support from Fulton County Board of Commissioners under the guidance of the Fulton County Arts Council, The National Endowment for the Arts, City of Atlanta Office of Cultural Affairs, Georgia Humanities Council and the National Endowment for the Humanities and through appropriations from the Georgia General Assembly, and the Atlanta Convention and Visitors Bureau (ACVB).

Media Partners: Xfinity, AJC, Atlanta Daily World, Atlanta Convention and Visitors Bureau (ACVB). Atlanta Tribune, Atlanta Magazine, Rialto Center for the Performing Arts, Atlanta ShowGuide, FGTV, CW Atlanta, Channel 26, WSB-TV, WCLK, Radio One, Upscale, TLDCO, The Barjon Group and Simon Sign Systems.

NBAF13_InsiteATL_5x7_Rev2.indd 1

insiteatlanta.com • July 2013 • PG 3 6/25/13 6:54 PM

Around Town Atlantic Station hosts the Titanic Artifact Exhibition and Bodies the Exhibition all month. Go to titanicatlanta.com and bodiesatlanta. com for tickets and event times. Enter code INSITE to receive $6 off admission price.

ALL JULY

Georgia Reproductive Specialists is looking for non-smoking females between the ages of 21 and 31 who are interested in donating their eggs to infertile couples who otherwise could not conceive. GRS will offer $7,000 in compensation to qualifying participants. Visit ivf.com or email donor@ivf.com.

ALL JULY

Are you suffering from terrible anal pain? Does it hurt to go to the bathroom? Then you may have an anal fissure. You may qualify for a research study of an investigational cream.

All study related mediation and treatment is provided at no cost. If eligible, you will be compensated for time and travel. Call 855472-4623 or visit clinicalstudysites.com.

ALL JULY

Just a short drive north and you’ll find a new baby penguin at the Tennessee Aquarium. Parents “Merlin” and “Sweet Pea” has recently gave birth to new offspring ready for the general public to “ooh” and “awh.” Tickets are $24.95 for adults and $14.95 for kids. Go to tnaqua.com for more.

ALL JULY

ALL JULY

Theatre/Film/Performance

Museums/Exhibits/Arts

each Thursday in their Central Park through August 15. Moviegoers can also enjoy meal deals each week from 5:30- 7:30pm from a variety of Atlantic Station restaurants.

Movie screenings will begin at dusk. Pets are welcome. Visit atlanticstation.com for more.

Music/Comedy/Sports

fireworks choreographed to popular musical scores, transforming the park into a natural amphitheater. The new show is enhanced with digital projection that adds 3-D like effects without the glasses. The show runs nightly into the fall and is free with $10 vehicle entrance to Stone Mountain Park. For more info, call 770Attention all concert goers and 498-5690 or visit stonemountainpark.com. musicians.

Atlanta Hearing Associates has just received new Laughing Skull Lounge will host patented hearing devices from Best of Atlanta Comedy on July 14 Sensaphonics. Visit either of their two Atlanta at 7pm. Tickets are $15-$20 to see area locations. Certified technicians are on eight of the city’s best funnymen hand to assist you in getting the best suited (and women) do their best 10 minutes for you. Go device for your hearing needs. Call (404) 921- to laughingskulllounge.com for complete details.

0052 or visit hearatlanta.com.

ALL JULY

JULY 14

The Plaza Theatre will host a month-long screening of all 24 James Bond films this July. The Plaza is the first theatre in the country to commemorate Bond’s legacy in such an unprecedented fashion. The series will include all EON Productions, but the Plaza will also be including “Never Say Never Again,” the oft-forgotten Bond film co-written by Lorenzo Semple Jr. and starred the original Bond, Sean Connery, in his come back and last appearance as the worlds favorite secret agent man. Go to plazaatlanta.com for showtimes and pricing.

ALL JULY

Other Stuff

The Gala returns to raise funds for the National Black Arts Festival on July 20 in the Intercontinental Buckhead Atlanta, Grand Ballroom. The celebration will end with a dazzling After Party featuring a dessert buffet, champagne with music and dancing. For more details or to purchase tickets, visit nbaf.org.

JULY 20

Don’t miss a trip to Turner Field July 26-28 as the Braves host the St. Louis Cardinals. Tickets are available at braves.com.

JULY 26

Lyle Lovett brings his smooth sounds to the Atlanta Botanical Garden on July 26 for the Concerts in the Garden series. Tickets are $51.50. Go to concertsinthegarden.org.

JULY 26

Make a splash at the coolest event this summer, the Chattahooche River Summer Splash, on July 27 in Sandy Springs. The float begins at 9am at the Morgan Falls Dam just 10 minutes north of Atlanta and winds down to Powers Island. Travel via kayak, canoe or raft down this six-mile journey of the Chattahoochee River. Call 678-538-1200 to register or go to visItsandysprings.org.

JULY 27

One of the best impersonators working today visits the Punchline Comedy Club on Aug. 2-3.

Saturday Night Live’s Jay Pharoah comes to Atlanta with his excellent stand-up and comedy routine. Go to punchline.com for more details. Tickets start at $25.

State-of the-art digital graphics and awe-inspiring effects create multi-dimensional magic on one of the world’s largest outdoor Atlantic Station’s outdoor summer screens, Stone Mountain. The Laser Canopy movie series, Movies in the Park, creates a dazzling display of neon laser lights is offering free movie screenings featuring characters, stories, graphics and

ALL JULY

AUG 02

Suffering from terrible anal pain?

Are You

Hearing It?

Does it hurt to go to the bathroom?

You may have an anal fissure.

(We’re completely serious and may be able to help)

You may qualify for a research study of an investigational cream. All study related medication and treatment will be provided at no cost. You do not need health insurance to participate. If eligible, you will be compensated for time and travel.

Melissa Wikoff, Au.D., Joy Pritchett, Au.D., Rita Chaiken, Au.D.

DJ 3MAX Mix Pack

One problem for DJs using IEMs is the need for “onesided” operation. The 3MAX Mix Pack meets that need with two custom-fit, mix-and-match products.

INsite, is on Facebook!

2X-S Classic

The 2X-S are the original soft silicone earphones, combining exceptional sound quality with the most comfortable fit available.

Musicians Earplugs

High fidelity earplugs developed specifically as hearing protectors for musicians and production personnel who are exposed to unsafe sound levels.

DECATUR / EMORY 1991 N. Williamsburg Dr. Ste. A Decatur, GA 30033 (404) 921-0052

ATLANTA – DUNWOODY 1713 Mt. Vernon Road, Suite 3 Atlanta, GA 30338 (404) 461-9937

www.HearAtlanta.com PG 4 • July 2013 • insiteatlanta.com

To find out if you qualify, email VEN307@ventrusbio.com Call 855-4-PAINAF (855-472-4623) or visit www.clinicalstudysites.com

Sign up for Facebook to connect with insiteatlanta.com JUNE 2013

insite atlant a

.com

VOL. 21, NO. 11 FREE

Taste of th

e Mo

BURGERS!nth

Summer Guide

Will Smith Ciara Journey Anne Heche Bryce Howard

Become a Fan to stay informed and be the first to know about great events and online ticket contests.

Check Us Out on Facebook at: facebook.com/insiteatlanta Call

insiteatlanta.com (404) 404-256-4328

Steve

315-8

LOCAL

LOCAL EVENTS

On Tap this Month EMAIL EVENTS TO ONTAP@INSITEATLANTA.COM All July: Fox Theatre

FOX FILM FESTIVAL

The Fox Theatre continues the 2013 Coca-Cola Summer Film Festival this month with three more classic movies. Oscarwinning “Django Unchained,” “The Croods,” and the timeless “Lawrence of Arabia” will grace the super-sized screen .

Tickets are available at the Fox Theatre Ticket Office and may be purchased online at foxatltix.com or 855-ATL-TIXX. For additional information on the movies or parking, please visit foxtheatre.org. Don’t miss an opportunity to see a movie in this unique setting.

July 4: All Over Atlanta

PEACHTREE ROAD RACE

An Atlanta tradition returns for the Fourth of July weekend.

The annual AJC Peachtree Road Race hits the streets of the city on July 4. Watch as thousands of men and women push themselves in the Georgia heat in this 10K race. The event is regularly one of the largest 10K races in the world and has been in existence since 1970. Official entries are currently closed, but for more information on places to view the race or volunteer, go online to peachtreeroadrace.org.

July 4: All Over Atlanta

FOURTH OF JULY FIREWORKS

Atlanta will offer several fireworks options during the patriotic holiday. Stone Mountain Park (stonemountainpark.com) will offer its mix of fireworks and a lazer light show, while Lenox Square Mall (lenoxsquare.com) will offer a contrast to the fireworks downtown at Centennial Olympic Park (centennialpark.com). Also don’t miss special a Fourth of July show by the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra (atlantasymphony.org), that comes with airborne explosions and music.

July 12: Aaron’s Amphitheatre

LIL WAYNE

Get ready, Atlanta. One of hiphop’s best comes back to Atlanta this month. Music icon and all-around crazy person Lil’ Wayne comes to Aaron’s Amphitheatre for the America’s Most Wanted Festival. The New Orleans-based rapper has emerged as a force in the music industry with hits like “Lollipop,” “Got Money” and “Right Above It.” He has actually passed Elvis Presley as the male with the most entries on the Billboard Hot 100 chart with 109. For tickets and show details, go to ticketmaster.com.

July 19: Verizon Wireless

ROBERT PLANT

Robert Plant presents the Sensational Space Shifters will vist Atlanta on July 19 at Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre.

The show starts at 7:30pm. This dynamic and powerful new incarnation of Plant’s musical vision has been touring the world, most recently in Australia and New Zealand. Ticket prices start at $39.50 and range to $79.50. This is a chance to see one of the greatest rock stars of all time. For more information or show information, go online to vzamp.com for complete details.

July 20-28: Atlantic Station

BB&T ATLANTA OPEN

The Atlanta Open returns to Atlantic Station. For the first time the Bryan brothers are scheduled to play the tournament.

The Bryans are recognized as the best men’s doubles team of all time. Returning players include two-time champion Mardy Fish, former Georgia Bulldog John Isner and defending doubles titlist Ryan Harrison. Tickets are available for purchase in each of the 11 sessions from qualifying weekend July 20-21, starting as low as $6, through the two finals on July 28. Visit bbtatlantaopen.com or call 404-881-2000.

EVENTS HAPPENING FOR SMALL CHANGE IN ATLANTA

Know of a low cost event of happening? Event@AtlantaOnADime.com SIPS IN THE CITY CALLAWAY GARDENS PHOENIX FLIES PEACHTREE HEALTH & FITNESS EXPO August, Check for Deals Through Feb. 28, FREE Website

“CITYWIDE CELEBRATION LIVING LANDMARKS” Tuesday, July 2 (11:00am –OF8:00pm) Various Downtown Restaurants Callaway Gardens March 5-20, Free Wednesday, July 3 (10:00am – 7:00pm), Free www.atlantadowntown.com 17800 Hwy 27 Around the City VariousUS Landmarks Georgia World Congress Center Pine Mountain, Georgia phoenixflies.org peachtreeroadrace.org This summer promotion encourages callawaygardens.com

patrons to experience Downtown The Phoenix Flies: AofCelebration ofAtlanta Living Kick off your Fourth July festivities at the

on ice!

Throughout the heated months of Admission Callaway Gardens is 2013 Peachtree Health and Fitness Expo There Landmarks wasto created in 2003 by The Atlanta July and August, featured restaurants in the complimentary through the end of this will be over 100 vendors areas of the Preservation Center as a from way toallcelebrate Downtown Dining District willrescue be month (Price isofindustry. normally $15 for adults, health and fitness There willoffering also be 25th anniversary the dramatic of the signature cocktails, hip happy $6.50 per child) providing guests with arefreshing Family Fun Zone for the kids, informational Fox Theatre, an event that changed Atlanta’s hours and deals that you won’t want tothe miss. running seminars, buys on all the latest running the opportunity to forever. enjoy time with their preservation outlook This year, list and fitness products and gear, product samples Participating restaurants include Atlanta family and friends reconnecting in nature. includes free guided tours of The Fox Theatre, and more.

Plus AJC Peachtree Road Race Grill, AzioPark, Downtown, BLTtheSteak, Max Free admission includes Virginia Piedmont Historic Oakland Cemetery, participants will beCantina able to pick up their race Lager’s, No Mas! and The Sundial Hand Callaway Discovery Center, Day Civil WaratAtlanta WalkingExpo.

Tour, The Tullieevent Smith numbers the Peachtree is Restaurant.

Visit the Sibley website for a complete Butterfly Center, Horticultural FarmandHouse, Margaret Mitchell House, the free open to the public. list deals.

Center, Mr.Park Cason’s Vegetable newofBeltline and much more. Garden, Callaway Brothers Azalea Bowl, Overlook SIPS IN THE CITY Garden, Discovery Bicycle Trail, Pioneer AMERICAN CRAFT COUNCIL IN ATLANTA July and August, Check WebsiteSHOW for Deals Log Cabin, Ida Cason Callaway Memorial Various Downtown Restaurants March 10-13, Regular admission: $13 Chapel, nature trails and daily programs. atlantadowntown.com/fun/sips Children under 12: free Cobb Galleria Center THE UNIVERSOUL CIRCUS This July andParkway, August,Atlanta the Downtown Dining Two Galleria District presents Sips in City,$15 a summertime Feb. 10 27, Tickets range - $35 craftcouncil.org/Atlanta thefrom happy Field hourGreen series Turner Lot at 25 restaurants in Downtown Atlanta. Atlanta Every weekday from 5:00 521 Avenue, ThisCapitol 3-day event is the largest juried fine craft to 7:00, Sips in the City brings you the perfect universoulcircus.com Show in the southeast. The show has been setting for an after-work gathering or to get a the premiere marketplace for regional fine headstart on a night on UniverSoul the town.

Participating The Circus craft lovers and collectors, and offers guests restaurants includecontinues The Drafting Table, Terrace itswork surge the chance to BLT meetSteak, and No purchase from Bistro, Thrive, Mas! Cantina and YELLOW JACKET to the top of the live esteemed artists from around the country.

To more. entertainment FAN reachDAY first-time collectors and establishedranks craft with interactive funky Saturday, 6, 3pm –itsAT 6pm, Free collectorsAugust alike, NIGHTS the newest show category for IMAGINATION THE GEORGIA rendition of a traditional Bobby Dodd Stadium Grant Field Under $100.

AQUARIUM participating artists isatHandmade UniverSoul has www.ramblinwreck.com Mondays through after 6pm thiswill Summer Artists who sell Saturdays, workcircus. for under $100 have captivated audiences $19.95 plus tax (all ages) marked for patrons their booths specially around the world Georgia Aquarium Festivities at from 3ap.m. on Callaway Plaza interested inbegin starting collection. with its unique brand georgiaaquarium.org with music, prizes, inflatables and games for that blends circus arts, the kids.

From 4-6 p.m. the gates will open ATLANTA MOTORenjoy SPEEDWAY FREEand OPEN music.

HOUSE This summer, Georgia Aquarium by and fans can enter theater the stadium to meet the March 12, 11am-3pm, Free night at a special ticket price!

When you visit Founded in Atlanta over 2011 Yellow Football players will be Atlanta Motor Jackets.

Speedway the Aquarium after 6pm Monday Saturday, 17 position years ago, the–at audience seated with their various 1500 Tara Place, Hampton togroups you’ll receive admission all six galleries, will watch in amazement as Paul stilt points on the playing field.

Head coach atlantamotorspeedway.com Deepo’s Undersea 3D Wondershow, anda Frogs: walkers make their way across tight Johnson will sign autographs from 4-5 p.m.

A Chorus of Colors. rope, horse riders perform death-defying and will be available for photographs from Visit the track’s Open House for free.

Activities stunts, and contortionists bend into 5-6 p.m.

Please limit autographs to ONE include championship legends racing on the incredible and beautiful shapes. item per player or coach. be the quarter-mile “Thunder Ring.This ”, freewilldrawings first opportunity to get the 2011 football for big FROGS: prizes, drive your own on the track A CHORUS OF car COLORS poster well as ofschedule cards, ticket CHEERSPORT 2011 NATIONAL with theaspurchase Labor Day NASCAR GEORGIA AQUARIUM information and other items throughout the CHEERLEADING & DANCE tickets, fans can select their seats for the Labor afternoon.

Most campus parking lots will Day Race Weekend, tour the Speedway’s race CHAMPIONSHIP be available. control tower and suites, take photos with Feb. 18 – 20 the Atlanta $30 for 2-dayMotor pass Speedway pace car and a SIMON GAMEPLAY NASCAR Sprint Series winner’s trophy, $20 for 1-day passCup TOUR Saturday, August 20gift @ shop 10am,and Free discounts much more.

Kids Under at5 AMS are Free Discover Mills Mall, Lawrenceville Georgia World Congress Center www.simon.com 285 Andrew Young International Blvd., Atlanta cheersport.net

The Simon GamePlay tour will connect fans of all ages to the hottest video cheerleading games before Bring it on…this electrifying they are launched and available in stores. and dance competition features teams The recently launched Nintendo 3DS competing from across America. This gaming system will take center stage with year, it expects to grow larger than ever a “Nintendo Lounge, ” with couches, with over 9003DS teams participating, from snacks and games.

Nintendo also offer ages three through college. will Cheersport “Street Pass,”bytournament-style play loved using was founded all-star coaches who Nintendo 3DS devices.

GamePlay will competitive cheerleading and dance. feature 10 gaming pods, including 2 mature Check the website for the full competition zones, with products from instrusty leaders schedule. like SEGA, Capcom, 2K and Atari.

By Marci Miller 2011 SOUTHEASTERN HUNGER WALK/RUN 5KFLOWER SHOW SPLASH FOUNTAIN AT ZOO Feb. 25 27, Adults $18 inATLANTA advance) March 13, Noon-4pm, $25($15 for runners 8th ANNUAL GERMAN BIERFEST July 2013 – October 2013

Youth/Student $7,27, Kids2 under 5 are Free Free for walkers Saturday, August – 7pm Free with General Admission, Adults $21.99 Cobb Galleria Centre Parking is free $30 Online, At the Children Door 2 & under free Children 3-11$35 ($16.99), Two Galleria Parkway, Turner Field Green LotAtlanta Woodruff Park, Downtown Atlanta Zoo Atlanta sehort.org 755 Hank Aaron Drive, Atlanta www.germanbierfest.com zooatlanta.org hungerwalkrun.org Presented by celebrates the Southeastern This Splash summerFountain event thebygreatness The presented Atlanta Horticultural Society, this annual premier Join thousands of runners and walkers at of German beer in aAuthority family-friendly Fulton County Recreation officially gardening event promotes preservation this annual event that benefits the Atlanta opens on the grounds of Zoo Atlanta on July 4, environment. Complete with authentic and awareness of flowers 2013.

Thefood, experience will feature akids, totalplants oflocal 18 Community Food Bank and fiveand other German activities for the music water jetseducation on interactive pads on a 2,500 through and artistic expression. nonprofits.

Participants can register assquarea team and fun, the German Bierfest is not only foot section of the Zoo’s KIDZone rides Show activities include speakers, juried or individually online or register the dayand of the only authentic German Bierfest in attractions area.

The Splash Fountain willbeer be competition, kids’ activities, Landscape & the event.but There will befamily-friendly activities for all ages Atlanta, the only open seasonally from April to October, Discovery Gardens and more. including livethe entertainment &weather more. festival asgames, well.

For price of admittance,

permitting.

The Splash Fountain be begin open Gates opencan at noon, theall 5Ktherunbeer &will walk attendees drink they can daily and will be free with general admission. at 2 p.m. safely consume.

Designated drivers are 10th ANNUAL OAKHURST WINE CRAWL encouraged and can attend for free.

No one Saturday, 26, 4 pm-7 ATLANTAFeb. STREET FOODpmFESTIVAL under the age of 21 will be permitted to $25 in advance for Tasting A-TOWN DAY Saturday, July 13, 12:00pm –Glass 8:00pm consume alcohol.

A designated $30 day event March 26,ofNoon-8pm, $5 under are free driver Adults $10.50, Kids 12 and service will also be Oakhurst Business Districton site for those who LakewoodPark Piedmont find themselves in an unsafe condition to oakhurstga.org 2002 Lakewood Ave SE, Atlanta atlantastreetfoodfestival.com drive home. atownday.com The Atlanta Street Foodyear’s Festivalevent is an event Participants in this will that get will showcase the top Atlanta area food trucks to sample wines from around the world A-TOWN DAY is a health festival, concert, PIGS & PEACHES BBQcare FESTIVAL and awareness tothe this growing while allof businesses in the andbring a exploring major Awareness celebrating August 26 & 27,day Friday 5pm - 11pmcommunity that provides high end, quality food in a unique Oakhurst neighborhood.

There will be 20 all things10am Atlanta.

A-TOWN Saturday – 10pm, Free DAY benefits way.

Attendees will also a enjoy a day full of participating establishments and the event the Diabetes of Atlanta and The Ben RobertsonAssociation Community Center, Kennesaw high-quality, main-stage entertainment and expects to sell out quickly.

The Fur Bus B-Aware Foundation. This event will feature www.facebook.com/PigsAndPeaches experience ahand mix to of local bands. The festival will be on poetry, live benefit music, cartransport show and participants lots of family will the Atlanta Community Food Bank. from bar to bar.

Ticketsacannon-sanctioned be purchased friendly events.

The event features No dogs allowed. from Steinbeck’s Ale House, Backyard BBQ, Anything Butt andUjoint, Peach and Karvana Coffee Shop, all located in Dessert Contest, as a WEEK Kansas City INMAN PARK THE MET LIVERESTAURANT IN well HD asSUMMER 2013 Oakhurst village.

Barbeque Society ENCORES March 28-April 3, $15sanctioned Professional Contest, Georgia Wednesday, Julythree-course 10is &recognized Wednesday, Julya 17, 7pm, $25 & $35which for meal as State NATIONAL Championship Cookoff. $12.50 per person PANCAKEBarbeque IHOP DAY CELEBRATION inmanparkrestaurantweek.com Regal Regaland Hollywood 24; Over Perimeter $14,000 cash prizes willRegal be Tuesday, March Pointe; 1,in7 am-10 pm, Free Pancakes North Regal awarded toandHouse contest winners. food International ofMcDonough Pancakes SavorPoint historic Inman Park withBesides three-course fathomevents.com for sale, from and free music from of Locations throughout Metro Atlantaa number dinners 11 local restaurants.

Proceeds local and national acts, festival goershelps will IHOPPancakeday.com will benefit Project Open Hand, which The Met: Live HD Summer 2013 be treated to ainlarge Kid Zone (withEncores many people prevent orway better manage is an affordable to see live chronic opera attractions FREE to families), vendor On thisthrough day, customers willunique receive one disease comprehensive nutrition care. performances in the comfort of The your Silver local booths andstack sponsor exhibits. free short (three) ofand IHOP’s famous $1 raffle tickets will be sold will go towards movie theater. Audiences can enjoy select Wings paratrooper aerial exhibition buttermilk pancakes.

All they ask is team that the charity.

The winner of the raffle will win encore performances including “ARMIDA” returns to the event, and will jump into patrons consider making a donation to a(July hosted hor d’ouerves, beer and wine party 10) and “LA TRAVIATA” (July 17). the festival Saturday, August 27. through Crowds support local children’s hospitals at Park’s on Edge Restaurant for thirty of their will be COLORS treated to aPark wonderful display of Children’s Miracle Network or other friends.

Each Inman restaurant will local bring FLYING BUTTERFLY FESTIVAL aerobatics patriotic performances in charities.

Since beginning Saturday, July and 13 (10:00am – 3:00pm) tastes from their restaurants foritstheNational winner. the There will be ainhuge, fireworks Pancake Day celebration 2006, IHOP Sunday, July 14will (12pm – 5pm) The sky. winner be also announced at the end of grand finale. has raised $5.35 million toa $12 person,more $8 CNCthan Members, Kidswebsite under 2for free the per restaurant week.

Check the Chattahoochee Nature Center support in the communities complete charities list of participating restaurants. in chattnaturecenter.org which it operates.

FESTIVAL PEACHTREE LATINO Sunday, August 28, 11am – 7:30pm, Free

This year, Park an expanded “Butterfly Encounter” Piedmont tented exhibit allows visitors to hand-feed more www.festivalpeachtreelatino.com than 250 free flying butterflies and gardeners can purchase pollinator and host plants too.

Festival Peachtree Latino has been the Enjoy the show when butterflies land on flowers largest family & multicultural event in the after the releases. Live music; photography and southeast since 2000.

They have featured entomology exhibits; arts and crafts; plus face hundredsforoflots exhibitions, family activities, painting of fun. Kids can wear their sporting costumes events, parades, arts &incrafts, ethnic butterfly and march the butterfly foods and performances parades eachoutdoor day. Foodmusical trucks will sell snacks and picnics.

Free shuttle bus from St. Francis featuring renowned international musicians School on Willeo southabout of 120. on twolot stages.

The Road, best part it is that the event is absolutely FREE!! This year, Festival Peachtree Latino has more to offer, with new attractions and a larger schedule of musical performances.

UPDATED EVENTSWEEKLY. WEEKLY. SIGN UP BY RECEIVERECEIVE UPDATED EVENTS SIGN UPEMAILING

BY E-MAILING SUBSCRIPTIONS@ATLANTAONADIME.COM SUBSCRIPTIONS@ATLANTAONADIME.COM

ENTER ON SUBJECT LINE:SIGN SIGNME MEUP UP INSITE! INSITE! ENTER ONTHE SUBJECT LINE: insiteatlanta.com • July 2013 • PG 5

TV

101 DEGREES OF GAME SHOW SINGING

Nick Lachey On NBC’s New Musical Competition, And the Winner Is

BY JENNIFER SMITH WILLIAMS

W

HEN YOU PAIR A BEEFY BOY-band crooner with two of America’s favorite pastimes (game shows and singing competitions), you’ve pretty much got a no-brainer for entertaining TV. So casting Nick Lachey as the host of And the Winner Is, NBC’s new singing competition, was a smart, swoon-worthy choice for viewers who enjoy an edgier version than what’s dominated the ratings until now. Timed alongside the 98 Degrees comeback and the release of the new dad’s lullaby album, this may be the start of a completely new era for Lachey.

The show is simple: Six weeks of competition pits singers against each other.

After they sing, they can choose to stay in the competition and hope to get voted for by a live audience of 101 judges, or take a cash prize and leave with more than they came with. To find out more, we jumped at the chance to sit down with Lachey and hear why he got involved and where it’s taking his music career now.

First off, how did you get involved with this show?

Well, obviously I’ve had kind of an ongoing relationship with NBC and done a few projects over the years. I was on The SingOff, and last summer I hosted Stars Earn

Stripes and the Macy’s fireworks on the network. So we’ve developed a relationship.

As this show started to come to fruition, they brought it to my attention.

What was about this show that got you excited?

In particular, it’s the kind of show that I think hasn’t been done yet on TV. I’ve never seen a show quite like it, which really kind of piqued my interest and got me excited to be a part of it.

As a singer yourself, what do you think about the rise of singing competitions?

I think what’s great about shows that feature musicians and singers in particular is that they really give people from every walk of life, and people from all around the country, the opportunity to showcase their talents.

When we were coming up, we really had to make the decision to move to either New York or LA in order to be discovered. But now, between the Internet and all these other shows where they’re able to expose their talent, people have the opportunity to get themselves out there in a whole new way.

What was the process to find the contestants for this show?

We had a great scouting department that really searched the country for great talent.

. . . x t I e s n e Whmes to IgnoranCe Is Co

DefInItely not BlIss

at the feminist Women’s health Center’, we provide all the FACTS you need to understand your own body and to make the best choices for your health care.

• Empowering gynecological exams • Free pregnancy testing • Birth Control • Emergency Birth Control • Confidential Abortion Care (6 to 25 weeks) • One-on-one decision-making counseling • STD Tests & Treatment • Anonymous HIV/AIDS tests • Transgender Health Services • Donor Insemination Services 1924 Cliff Valley Way atlanta, ga 30329

404-728-7900 www.feministcenter.org PG 6 • July 2013 • insiteatlanta.com

surgi-Center license 044-287

And again, I can’t emphasize enough that these are talented people from every walk of life. I mean, everything from an emergency room nurse, to a chicken farmer, to a 10-year-old 6th grader. There were different cities where you could go and actually audition, but in addition to that we took submissions online.

What makes this show different from the other competition shows on air now?

I think any performer who comes into this has the intention of going all the way and winning $1 million. I mean, that’s the goal.

But when you get in the heat of the battle and you give your performance and your opponent is giving a great performance, it’s really tough to reason how the judges in the audience have voted. So it becomes about walking the fine line between being confident in your performance and also trying to take yourself out of the situation enough to be objective and say, “Should I take the money?”

As a reality show vet, what is it about these types of shows that clicks with you?

Well, being part of something that celebrates great talent and celebrates music is kind of a no-brainer. I mean, it’s certainly where I started in my career. Music is and always will be, for me, a real passion. So it’s very exciting and organic for me to be a part of a show like this that really celebrates talent. It also allows me to be myself. I’m very comfortable with who I am and being kind of an open book, which, in reality TV, that is kind of a crucial thing. So that’s always been a very comfortable place to be on camera for me.

How much do you enjoy getting involved with undiscovered talent?

I just love it. When you’re in this business, sometimes it can become such a business that you forget the joy of why you started singing to begin with. What I’ve found is, in doing shows like this, you get to rekindle that. You see the organic joy and excitement that these people have for what they love to do, which is sing.

How is the jury chosen for this show?

These are music experts. They’re either producers or music teachers, bloggers or music critics. So they’re people who have some knowledge of and exposure to music.

They’re not just randomly selected from the audience. They are a pre-determined group of 101 people who will be voting. And they change every episode, so it’s a different 101

judges each and every episode.

Do you think they made good decisions?

I didn’t necessarily agree with every decision they made, which is, I think, a little bit of the drama of it. You think you might be able to predict how the 101 are going to vote. But what I’ve found is that there really is no way to predict. I mean, it’s certainly based on talent and on performance. But it’s also based on charisma, how you were able to interact with the audience, and what your stage presence was.

How are the songs selected? And how do you think that affects the judging?

I do think song selection sometimes comes into play. I think certain songs resonate more with the judges than others.

At the same time, someone could come out and do a great operatic aria, which is certainly not something you hear a lot on these types of shows, but it could resonate in a way that makes them stand out. The contestants do have the opportunity to select their own song. We want them to feel like they’re coming in with their best foot forward, the most comfortable that they can be.

You’ve hosted a lot of these shows now.

What do you know about hosting now that you didn’t know several years ago?

I certainly think I’ve improved since I started in this genre. Hosting was kind of a new thing for me when I first started doing it. Thankfully, at that time I was dating a very, very good host in [now wife] Vanessa, who had years of live hosting experience [on Entertainment Tonight and MTV’s Total Request Live].

Did this show give you the itch to get back into the studio, or was the 98 Degrees reunion already in the works before this?

The reunion is something that we’ve considered doing and talked about doing for years now. It was just a question of timing, and everyone’s availability, and finding the right moment to come together and do it.

Do you think this will continue as an ongoing series, or is it a one-off?

I love the show. In filming it, we would all sit backstage and we’d have wagers as to whether people were going to take the money or not. It’s a really intriguing show that I think is going to catch on, which would suggest that we would come back for many more seasons. I think that’s the hope.

Under The Lights Upcoming Theatrical Performances GREASE SING-A-LONG

MENOPAUSE THE MUSICAL

Call (855) ATL-TIXX foxatltix.com

Box Office (404) 733-5000 WoodruffCenterTickets.org

Saturday, July 27 at 7:30PM The Fox Theatre

On Saturday, July 27th The Fox Theatre will host Sing-a-long-a Grease. This unique, interactive show is complete with onscreen lyrics and the chance to become a TBird or Pink Lady for the night and enter the world famous costume competition.

Atlanta audiences will sing a long to “Summer Lovin’,” “Grease Lightning” and “You’re The One That I Want” among others. Sing-a-long-a Greasers will be decked out in their own versions of fifties high school garb worn at Rydell High, including poodle skirts and saddle shoes, black leather biker and powder-pink bomber jackets, chiffon scarves and skinny ties.

Costumes are most definitely encouraged, but singing is mandatory! Every performance starts with a Sing-a-long-a host who warms up the audience, trains them how to “hand-jive”, deploy the contents of their free goodie bags and heckle in all the right places as well as judge the costume competition. Its produced by Ben Freedman, who previously brought movie theatre audiences the Sing-a-long-a Sound of Music.

The classic film with on-screen lyrics so EVERYONE can join in.

It’s the one that you want!

July 30 - August 4 The Alliance Theatre

The international hit show Menopause The Musical is coming to Atlanta and will play the Alliance Theatre at the Woodruff Arts Center for 7 performances, July 30 – August 4. Set in a department store, four women with seemingly nothing in common but a black lace bra meet by chance at a lingerie sale. The all-female cast makes fun of their woeful hot flashes, forgetfulness, mood swings, wrinkles, night sweats and chocolate binges. A sisterhood is created between these diverse women as they realize that menopause is no longer “The Silent Passage.” It is a stage in every woman’s life that is perfectly normal. The laughter-filled 90-minute production includes parodies from classic pop songs of the ‘60s and ‘70s and ‘80s. Inspired by a hot flash and a bottle of wine, writer and producer Jeanie Linders created the show as a celebration of women who are on the brink of, in the middle of, or have survived “The Change.” The show is produced by GFour Productions.

Nearly 11 million women have attended a performance since the 2001 opening.

From the Producers of the world-wide phenomenon Sing-a-Long-a Sound of Music In association with Park Circus Films

Saturday, July 27 7:30 PM Tickets are on sale now at www.FoxATLTix.com, the Fox Theatre Ticket Office or 855-ATL-TIXX

ATLANTA’S MEMORY

MAKER

$15 in advance/$20 day of show PLEASE NOTE: THIS SPECIAL EVENT IS NOT PART OF THE COCA-COLA SUMMER FILM FESTIVAL.

NTA!

MES TO ATLA O C N IO T A S N E S Y A W D THE OFF-BROA

Book & lyrics by Jeanie Linders The Hilarious Celebration of Women and The Change!®

MEN LOVE IT TOO!

JULY 30 - AUGUST 4 ONLY! 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

ON STAGE AT THE WOODRUFF ARTS CENTER 1280 Peachtree Street NE

404-733-5000

Atlanta, GA 30309

www.woodruffcenter.org

GREATER DISCOUNTS FOR GROUPS 10+ Call: 888-686-8587 ext. 2 By special license from the Owner, Jeanie Linders’ company GFourProductions.com

insiteatlanta.com • July 2013 • PG 7

Guide to East Atlanta!

Explore Atlanta’s most eclectic Neighborhood The Earl

Tomatillos

badearl.com 488 Flat Shoals Rd. (404) 522.3950

Located in the heart of the East Atlanta Village, The Earl is the kind of place you can hang out at all day. It is a great combination of restaurant, bar and concert hall. Featuring an amazing bar menu, moderately priced drinks and a music venue in the back, this is a place that can satisfy just about anyone in your group.

The open front offers cafe’ seating with a great view of the East Atlanta scene. At night anything and everything can be heard on the back stage while the crowd varies with the bands. National acts and the best of the emerging Atlanta music scene grace the Earl nightly to packed crowds. The jukebox in the restaurant has one of the most eclectic group of albums in town. Bar regulars love to wash Earl burgers down with their PBR tall boys.

With a casual atmosphere and eclectic mix of patrons, you can’t go wrong with a visit to The Earl.

The Glenwood

1263 Glenwood Ave. (404) 748.1984 glenwoodatlanta.com

The Glenwood is your everyman’s pub in

1242 Glenwood Ave. (404) 622.9448 tomatillos-atlanta.com

East Atlanta (everywoman too). Suits and hipsters rub elbows here while enjoying the best craft beers from a list of ninety.

The Glenwood just celebrated their 6th anniversary and they continue to maintain a warm décor, great drinks, the most complete menu in the Village. The polished hardwood floors, seductive horseshoe bar, and rough-hewn granite walls create an inviting ambiance. For sports fans there are 10 HDTVs. The 2 monster HD screens are used to feature special sports events.

The hand-crafted booths are just the place to enjoy Chef Ian Grant’s fare of eclectic comfort food. On Saturdays and Sundays The Glenwood offers Brunch all day long with $1.49 Mimosas until 4:00.

The Patio Deck is just the place to enjoy dinner and a glass of wine from the area’s best wine list. This second story patio has a splendid tree-line view which evokes a delightful feeling of seclusion from the bustling street. The Glenwood offers Shuffleboard, Darts and Skeeball. On Mondays and Tuesdays well drinks are just $3.00. Wednesday it’s Team Trivia with house-cash prizes. Fridays and Saturdays a variety of DJ’s hold forth. On Sunday there’s the live music jam hosted by The Hollidays. See you at The Glenwood.

INTRODUCING NEW SUMMER DISHES!

agave restaurant OVER 100

Tomatillos is relatively new to East Atlanta but has already earned a large following. The owners are from the area and their roots go back to the former and one of Atlanta’s favorite establishments, Tortillas. Their credo “In Beans We Trust” harkens back to the Tortillas days.

Here you will find great Tacos, Burritos, Quesadillas, Nachos and Salads. They use inspiring ingredients including potato green chili, slow-cooked brisket and tofu.

Their customers also rave about their catfish and fried chicken tacos. Come Tuesday for the Crunchy Taco Special.

They offer different specials daily.

Grant Central East Pizza 1279 Glenwood Ave. (404) 627.0007 facebook.com/grantcentraleast

Grant Central East is located in the heart of East Atlanta Village on the corner of Glenwood and Flat Shoals. It is the sister restaurant to Grant Central in Grant Park.

The original was named after Grand Central Station for its NY Style pizza.

Here you can find great pizza, subs and

salads and they offer pizza by the slice.

They have an open kitchen so you can check out your pizza as it comes out of the oven and there is a large dining area with plenty of tables to accommodate large groups. Grant Central East gives its customers the option of customizing their pizza, even when only ordering a slice.

Toppings are 50 cents extra per slice while $3.95 buys a slice of their house pizza, the Cardiac Arrest (pepperoni, spicy sausage, meatballs, ham and extra cheese), which is every bit as good as it sounds.

Agave Restaurant

242 Boulevard SE (404) 588.0006 agaverestaurant.com

Consistently voted the Best Southwestern Restaurant in Atlanta, Agave uses only the freshest ingredients to create chef inspired dishes with a authentic southwestern flare. They boast the largest tequila selection in the city as well as over 100 wines from around the world. Enjoy their award winning Margaritas and be sure to sign up for Agave's VIP Email List which features huge monthly discounts on dinner and details on all of Agave's special events.

GRANT CENTRAL EAST PIZZA New York Style Pizza and More!

BLUE AGAVE TEQUILAS 1279 GLENWOOD AVE. (IN EAST ATLANTA VILLAGE) 404.627.0007

PHOTOS BY MARK PETKO

An eclectic southwestern eatery & tequila bar est. 2000 Reservations at

404.588.0006

or online at: www.agaverestaurant.com

242 Boulevard S.E. Atlanta 30312 PG 8 • July 2013 • insiteatlanta.com

Favorite Family Style BBQ Taste of the Month-Barbecue! Atlanta’s BUY 1 Fat Matt’s Rib Shack 1811 Piedmont Rd. 404.607.1622 fatmattsribshack.com

Pig-N-Chik

pignchik.net 4920 Roswell Rd. 404.255.6368 5071 Peachtree Ind. Blvd. 770.451.1112 1815 Briarcliff Rd. 404.474.9444

BEST RIBS

SANDWICH GET 2ND HALF OFF! 2nd Sandwich of equal of lesser value.

With this ad. Expires 8/31/13

Award winning Fat Matt's Rib Shack has been around since 1990 and is one of Atlanta's favorite hot-spots. They feature great BBQ, live blues nightly and a casual setting for the whole family to enjoy. Not limited to the North Carolina or Kentucky styles, Fat Matt's uses their own seasoning and cooking technique. These ribs are smoked to perfection and literally falling off the bone. The ribs can be ordered as a whole, half slab, or on a sandwich. They also serve great barbecue chicken and pork. The signature side is their Rum Baked Beans, but they also have delicious Brunswick Stew, Mac & Cheese, Roasted Peanuts, Collards, Potato Salad, and Cole Slaw. Fat Matt's serves nine beers on tap and more in bottles. Seating is first come first serve inside and outside. During the busiest times a little patience is required, but tables generally turn over quickly.

They feature live blues seven nights a week.

Fat Back Deluxe performs every Sunday night and has a huge following. The rest of the week’s schedule is as follows: MondaysPead Boy & The Pork Bellys; Tuesdays - J.T. Speed; Wednesdays - The Holidays; Thursdays – Chicken Shack. Check out their website for weekend performances.

One Star Ranch

25 Irby Avenue 404.233.7644 onestarranch.com

The ribs at Pig-N-Chik come St. Louis cut and are cooked until they show a pink smoke ring. All the meats here are served naked without sauce so the true flavor of the meat comes through. They offer tasty homemade BBQ sauces on the tables and their barbecue is served accompanied with a slice of thick white bread to mop it up.

Pig-N-Chik is a family friendly barbecue restaurant that offers something that everyone will like; all at affordable prices.

From barbecue ribs and barbecue pork to turkey, beef brisket, chicken wings, smoked salmon and a variety of salads, they’ve got a menu filled with irresistible dishes. Your children will love their kid's menu, featuring a tasty selection of chicken fingers, corndogs, beef and pork sandwiches and pork ribs. What’s great about their menu is that there are so many different options.

Interested in pulled pork? You can get it on a sandwich by itself or up to three sides; on a plate in three serving options; or ordered by the half-pound. Be sure to check out their newest location next to the Sage Hill shopping center on Briarcliff Rd. It offers a large patio out front with view of a flat screen TV for you Braves fans and is easily accessible to the Emory and Virginia Highland areas. All three locations offer Dine-in, Delivery and Catering.

Dreamland Bar-B-Que

5250 Peachtree Parkway 770.446.6969 10730 Alpharetta Hwy. 678.352.7999 dreamlandbbq.com

Owner Frank Bonk has been running this favorite Barbecue establishment for 27 years. Once known as the Rib Ranch, you will find it just off Roswell Rd. in Buckhead.

One Star Ranch’s menu offers multiple barbecue options to choose from. These include Baby Back Ribs, Pork Ribs and their famous “Fred Flintstone” size Beef Ribs.

The ribs come on the bone, pulled served on a plate or on a sandwich. You can also find wings served medium, hot and barbecue of course. Great appetizers including: Fried Pickles, BBQ Quesadillas and Chicken Tenders can be found here. They have nine great side dishes each made from scratch daily including Brunswick Stew, Baked Beans and Corn on the Cobb. One Star Ranch also offers a Child’s Plate for just $5.99 offering choice of one meat, side and small drink. If you're already one of their customers, you know when it comes to barbecue and ribs, it doesn't get any better than this. If you've never been to One Star Ranch, what are you waiting for? One Star Ranch is open 7 days a week for lunch and dinner and offers a full bar including $5 Margaritas! There is plenty of free parking for dine-in or take-out. One Star is also offers full service catering that can come with live a blues band and is available for parties large and small.

PigNChik.net Sandy Springs / Buckhead 4920 Roswell Rd • 404-255-6368 Chamblee / Brookhaven 5071 Peachtree Industrial Blvd. • 770-451-1112 NEW LOCATION! Emory Area 1815 Briarcliff Rd. • 404-474-9444

27 Years in Buckhead!

Texas Style BBQ 25 Irby Avenue NW Atlanta, GA 30305 (404) 233-7644 ★ www.OneStarRanch.com Hours: Sun.—Thurs. 11 a.m.—10 p.m.

Fri. & Sat. 11 a.m. – Midnight ★ Always Free Parking

BEST PATIO in Buckhead

Fifty-five years after Dreamland founder John “Big Daddy” Bishop began serving his signature ribs and sauce, his signature style and recipe are still being used today.

Mr. Bishop treated everyone like family and at Dreamland you’ll be surrounded with that unmistakable Southern hospitality.

You’ll start every meal with a Dreamland tradition: white bread and sauce. Then it’s on to the main dish. Dreamland’s ribs are grilled over a hot hickory fire and basted with Big Daddy’s southern-style sauce that has just a hint of a kick. You can also get bar-b-que sandwiches topped with chicken or pulled-pork to pair with traditional southern sides. Their sides include baked beans, Cole slaw, potato salad and house salads served with their very own BBQ house dressing. Don’t forget their famous banana pudding or Big Daddy’s Iced Tea, sweet or unsweet it will knock a few degrees off of a hot Southern Day. Can’t dine in? Dreamland offers carry-out and catering for any occasion.

Visit Dreamland Bar-B-Que at 5250 Peachtree Parkway Northwest in Norcross or 10730 Alpharetta Highway in Roswell and you’ll get that legendary taste that “ain’t nothing like ‘em nowhere.” insiteatlanta.com • July 2013 • PG 9

FILM

SEEING RED AGAIN

Odd Couple Willis and Hopkins Unite for Rollicking Action Sequel

BY LEE VALENTINE SMITH

“R

ED 2,” THE ENJOYABLE NEW action-comedy sequel to 2010’s hit film “RED,” reimagines the plotlines of the comic book series by Warren Ellis and Cully Hamner. Bruce Willis headlines an impressive cast, with great performances by John Malkovich, MaryLouise Parker, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Lee Byung-Hun, Anthony Hopkins and Dame Helen Mirren. Directed by Dean Parisot, the film will be in wide theatrical release this month. For those not familiar with the original story, Willis, Malkovich and Mirren all reprise their roles as retired and often quite volatile black ops CIA agents.

The delightful Mary Louise-Parker returns as Willis’ girlfriend, with the inspired new additions of Hopkins as a charmingly eccentric scientist and Zeta-Jones has a cameo as a sleek former ally.

The inspired match of Willis and Hopkins is undeniable on screen and their chemistry was also evident recently at an opulent hotel in New York City. The two legendary but polar opposite actors addressed the press in a casual gathering to promote and discuss the film, but the irreverent and often-hilarious Willis completely carried the disjointed conversation, constantly veering off-topic, much to the amusement of a chuckling and politely reserved Sir Hopkins. While fielding questions and comments about the movie, Willis even took a minute to goodnaturedly coerce two press reps to kiss, as he explained the benefits of canoodling with the gorgeous Zeta-Jones and the strikingly beautiful Parker.

On what convinced Willis to explore filming a sequel to RED: Bruce Willis: My character is so befuddled.

I like to play befuddled characters that don’t quite know what’s going on and are a little behind the chain of information. And I try not to take it too seriously. Sometimes directors are so strict about saying the words just right, like saying “the” instead of “that,”

but this film was not like that. We got to wing some of the things, and - what’s the past tense of “winged?” Is it “winged?” I don’t know. Well, we “wung” it. Sorry, I’m not an English major. I always have fun working.

I always have fun goofin’ around. Because that’s what it feels like, right?

Hopkins: Well, I’d read the phone book if they told me to. At my age, I’m just lucky to be around. I’m a big fan of Bruce. I saw the first “Die Hard” and many of his films, but I just love to work. I won’t do just anything, but when young actors always ask for advice, I always tell them to keep working. Any chance you get, just keep working. Work, work, work. That’s what it is. I have a young niece who has her first film part down in Atlanta. She’s really good and she’s never acted before, but I tell her the same thing: just go and work hard. Enjoy it, have a great time with it. As Robert Mitchum used to say, “[Acting] beats working for a living.” I got an email about it, the director said, “What do you think?” I said, “Well, it’s interesting.”

I’m playing a crazy atom scientist. You see, I’ve got a very short attention span. Really, the deficit order, whatever ya call it. I said, I can’t read through it much. I lose track of the story. So I came back to it, thinking, ok, I’m a mad scientist who’s been locked-up, so I said, there’s a way of playing it very English.

I’m not English, I’m Welsh. But there’s a way to play it: very eccentric. He’s intelligent and completely bonkers. But the twist is, he’s not mad at all, but I won’t give the plot away.

He feigns madness and that’s what I found interesting. I knew this man in England, a professor, who was completely off the wall.

Brilliant. Genius. A mathematical genius at Oxford. He didn’t know the time of day. He never knew where he was. He had to ask people where he lived. So I wanted to play him like that. As a kind of a foil, a distraction to the real plot.

On Willis receiving a rather direct slap in the face from co-star Mary-Louise Parker: Willis: I was slapped in this film? I was?

I haven’t seen the final cut so don’t tell me how it ends. Who slaps me? Mary-Louise?

Oh, yes. My goodness. I like that scene. It’s something I seldom get to do in films, and that’s to get that daffy look on my face where I’m just coming out of unconsciousness.

Always a fun thing to do. We got to have a lot of fun on this film, and that was one of the scenes. She let me have it!

On working with the often-unpredictable John Malkovich: Well, you never know what’s going to happen when you’re around Malkovich. He makes me laugh all the time, which is a very good thing, but sometimes we’d actually have to go again because we were laughing so hard. But you can kind of get away with laughing on camera. [In the movie] he was giving me romantic advice, during most of the film, and I liked that advice. I had fun on these films. I actually rushed into work.

There was no lollygagging, no coming in late because I didn’t want to do it – we were all happy to show up and try to make each other laugh.

On the possibility of Willis taking a change of pace role, like Hopkins with the recent “Hitchcock,” or Michael Douglas as Liberace.

Willis: I think I’m very fortunate. I get asked to do a lot of things. Some of them include

PG 10 • July 2013 • insiteatlanta.com

I WAS SLAPPED IN THIS FILM? I WAS? I HAVEN’T SEEN THE FINAL CUT SO DON’T TELL ME HOW IT ENDS. WHO SLAPS ME? MARY-LOUISE? OH, YES. MY GOODNESS. I LIKE THAT SCENE. weapons, some of them include jokes, and time to time, some of them include making out with women that I’m not married to.

How often does that happen? What about you guys, does that ever come out in your job? Do you ever get told “today you’re going to kiss three or four of the women at the press conference, and you can choose who they are.” It’s a strange thing isn’t it?

On the use of weapons in films: Willis: Safety is so important. Safety is not shooting your fellow actors, not shooting yourself, not having a gun go off while it’s in your pocket – you don’t want that to happen. Safety is really my biggest concern. Sometimes I work with kids, and you definitely don’t want to shoot the kids, so you have to be safe. You don’t want to shoot anyone.

Hopkins: I noticed when I had a gun in one scene, and was walking with Bruce, I noticed he was very sure I was being safe. I wasn’t even pulling the trigger, but it happened to be loaded at one point, because we had to do a continuing shot, and I was aware of him being very aware of the safety and consequences of the firearm going off. He’s been around them, but I haven’t done much with them. You don’t mess around with those things. In England, if you have to have a gun on set, they are so tough on them. As soon as you fire, the armory takes it away from you, and that’s it. You don’t mess with it. We don’t have firearms there. Well, very few of them anyway.

On the pressures of making a sequel and introducing new, unfamiliar characters into the cast: Willis: I’m always excited to see who comes to work on films. I was very, very excited Anthony [Hopkins] said yes, so it’s nice that you get to work with people you’re a fan of.

You get to have fun. I don’t really think we took it that seriously, though. I mean, you

take work seriously, but we had a ball. We were all just laughing, watching one another do what we do. I wasn’t that concerned. I was a little more confused on the first one because it felt like we were trying to do so many things at the same time. Comedy, action, and romance were all in the same film, but somehow it seemed to work out.

There’s more romance in this one, I think, than the first one.

On kissing Catherine Zeta-Jones and MaryLouise Parker during the shoot coupled with the harsh realities of being a father at home: Willis: I change diapers, and I’m happy to be doing it. It’s just me at home. It’s one guy, and about thirty women in the house, so I don’t win very many arguments, but luckily, we don’t really have arguments. No one gets mad if you have to kiss someone every once and a while. I say “Look, it’s in the script!

‘Now kisses Mary-Louise Parker. Now kisses, Catherine Zeta-Jones.’” They were even trying to get me to kiss John Malkovich at one point.

On the late James Gandolfini and the impressively diverse group of actors who have come from New Jersey, including Willis: Willis: It’s a very peculiar state, New Jersey.

I’m surprised anyone from New Jersey gets to work in show business, but somehow I managed to make a big career out of it. I’ll certainly miss James Gandolfini. What a great guy. Life is short, isn’t it? Seems short.

You’ve got to live it up, have fun, laugh, eat good food, do whatever you want, don’t hurt people, and try to have as much fun as you can. Don’t you think? Start making out with everyone right now! Don’t you worry, just tell whoever you try to kiss at a restaurant, or wherever, that Bruce Willis told you to.

“RED 2” opens nationwide on July 19. Check local listings for theaters and showtimes.

EVENTS

4TH OF JULY CELEBRATIONS ASO

downtown Atlanta’s best fireworks display.

Park gates open at 6 p.m. and fireworks start at approximately 9:40 p.m. The finale of the evening is Centennnial Olympic Park’s Fireworks Spectacular, synchronized to a special selection of patriotic and popular music. Each year thousands of people come to Centennial Olympic Park to celebrate Independence Day. MARTA is strongly encouraged for transportation. For more information visit www.centennialpark.com.

4TH OF JULY ALL AMERICAN FIREWORKS SPECTACULAR @ TURNER FIELD

ASO’S ALL-AMERICAN CELEBRATION

The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra will celebrate Independence Day with an AllAmerican Celebration at Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre at Encore Park on Friday, July 5th at 8:00 p.m. ASO Staff Conductor Jere Flint will lead the Orchestra and a chorus in a program of patriotic songs, beloved anthems and sing-alongs capturing the heart of freedom. Light up your July 4th weekend at the Orchestra’s annual holiday tradition.

The evening will conclude with a post-concert finale featuring soaring fireworks. Single tickets for these performances are $15 to $45.

All single tickets for the 2013 summer season are on sale now, and available online at www. vzwamp.com or by calling (404) 733-5000.

Spend the 4th with the Atlanta Braves as they take on the Miami Marlins at Turner Field. The game begins at 7:10pm and will be followed by a special All-American Fireworks display choreographed to patriotic music.

Corey Smith will be on hand for the national anthem and post-game performance. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit http://atlanta.braves.mlb.com.

LENOX SQUARE

CENTENNIAL OLYMPIC PARK’S 4TH OF JULY CELEBRATION

Come celebrate Centennial Olympic Park’s 4th of July Celebration with a night of fun and entertainment for the entire family, including

LEGENDARY 4TH OF JULY AT LENOX SQUARE

For over half a century, Lenox Square has celebrated stars and stripes in grand tradition with activities for the entire family.

Activities open for a full-day of family fun at 10 a.m. The day will include musical entertainment, food concessions and the largest fireworks display in the Southeast.

Musical entertainment begins at 6 p.m. with Jimmy Buffet tribute band Sons of Sailors.

This year Lenox Square will host its inaugural talent search, ‘Atlanta’s Next Legend’ where the crowned winner will perform in front of crowds filled with family and friends. At 7 p.m. the crowned winner performs and at 7:30 p.m. show headliners Party on the Moon takes the stage. Fireworks scheduled to begin at approximately 9:40 p.m. Everyone is invited to experience Atlanta’s patriotic celebration as Lenox Square lights up the sky on the Fourth of July! www.simon.com

FANTASTIC FOURTH CELEBRATION AT STONE MOUNTAIN PARK State-of the-art digital graphics and aweinspiring effects create multi-dimensional magic on one of the world’s largest outdoor screens, Stone Mountain. The Laser Canopy creates a dazzling display of neon laser lights featuring characters, stories, graphics and fireworks choreographed to popular musical scores, transforming the park into a natural amphitheater. The new show is enhanced with digital projection that adds 3-D like effects without the glasses. The show runs nightly into the fall and is free with $10.00

vehicle entrance to Stone Mountain Park.

Visitors may bring blankets and lawn chairs.

For more information call 770-498-5690 or visit www.stonemountainpark.com.

STONE MOUNTAIN

MALL OF GEORGIA’S FABULOUS 4TH OF JULY CELEBRATION Mall of Georgia’s 11th Annual Fabulous Fourth of July Celebration will kick off at 2:00pm with three live bands; The Brent Gafford Band (2PM – 4PM), Vintage Boogie Band (4:30pm – 6:30pm), and The Woody’s (7pm – 9pm). The annual fireworks show begins at 9:15pm followed by a showing of “Playing For Keeps” on the big screen.

The fireworks display will launch from the Nordstrom Overflow Lot and as such, attendees are not permitted to park or sit in sections of the Nordstrom Parking Lot, which will be clearly marked. For the easiest entrance and exit, it is recommended that families park in the Dillard’s lot. For more information, visit www.mallofgeorgia.com.

Atlanta’s Best Dishes & Cocktails Under One Roof Since 1979!

Join us on

for A chance

to Win Box Seats to See

LIL’ WAYNE: Friday, July 12th LUKE BRYAN: Sunday, July 14th KID ROCK: Saturday, Sept. 14th nd Post Concert Par a e r P s ’ ty Sp a t n a ot Atl

AMPHITHE ATRE

Like us on Facebook and Follow us on Twitter to Increase Your Chances to Win!

Giving Away Tons of tickets All Summer Long!

@legendaryspondivits

1219 Virginia Ave. • East Point, GA 30344 • 404-767-1569

Braves & Concert Fans: One Exit from the Airport, 10 Min. from Phillips Arena/Turner Field insiteatlanta.com • July 2013 • PG 11

MUSIC

UP AND ADAM

‘80s Icon Adam Ant is Back with a New Album and Tour

BY LEE VALENTINE SMITH

B

ORN STUART GODDARD, THE theatrical and often abrasive musician known as Adam Ant was a key player in the burgeoning London punk scene. A few years after forming the video-friendly Adam and the Ants in 1977, the band had racked up seven Top 10 songs in England (including the massive crossovers “Stand and Deliver,” “Antmusic,” and “Prince Charming”). He went solo in ’82 and his chart-topping “Goody Two-Shoes” remains his bestknown hit. But even though his songs remain staples of New Wave genre programming, Ant found the ‘90s and 2000s to be a bit of a creative challenge, with only high-profile mental issues and a few acting roles highlighting his resume of the period. But now, he’s back with his first album since ’95, with the massivelytitled Adam Ant Is The Blueblack Hussar in Marrying the Gunner’s Daughter. As he prepped for his first major American tour in years, he spoke with Insite from his office in London.

You’re just back from Rome, Italy; how was the show?

Yeah, we did a big festival over there, it was the 110th anniversary of Harley Davidson and there were at least 20,000 Harley Davidsons down there. It was a little crazy, it took us a bit of time to get to the stage but it went quite well.

Is the new album out in Rome?

It’s just released in Europe. We released it the end of January here, and it’s going through various parts of Europe as the release takes place. Really looking forward to coming to the States in July for the proper release there. Nowdays, I think you have to release a record just prior to doing the tour, really, to get there and promote it as you go.

This is a totally indie release on your own label, so you can set your own release dates.

Right. That’s the difference of having your own label, you can do it the way you want. I decided I wanted to do a doublegatefold vinyl release and a nice illustrated

PG 12 • July 2013 • insiteatlanta.com

I JUST THINK THE ADVENT OF THE TECHNOLOGICAL AGE HAS, UNFORTUNATELY FOR SONGWRITERS ITS NOT BEEN GOOD WITH THE DOWNLOADING AND THE ASSUMPTION THAT MUSIC SHOULD BE FREE, WHICH I DON’T UNDERSTAND, BECAUSE IT COSTS MONEY TO MAKE IT. BUT SOMETHING WILL COME ALONG.

book with the cd, as well. It’s not worth being on a major label these days, so I’m enjoying having that kind of freedom and learning about manufacturing and distribution. It’s been a bit of a learning curve, this one. But it’s good. It did give me an appreciation of what the major labels do and much things actually cost.

It’s not an easy task.

And with having my own label now, I have the luxury of time and freedom.

It’s great that you’ve finally defined your dynamic onstage persona as The Blueblack Hussar. Can you tell us about the concept of that character?

Well, I’m a big fan of history and the whole Napoleonic campaign and the 19th century British Army. They’re personal passions of This album has been several years in mine. So I was incorporating that into the the making. idea of it. Perhaps looking at the character Yeah, a little over there years ago, I made of Kings Of The Wild Frontier album. And the decision to come back I was thinking, “What into the music business would he look like, say, 35 and make records again. years later, if he’d walked to Who: The initial thing was to get Moscow with Napoleon’s a band together and play troops and back?” That was live. For the repertoire, I a metaphor for some of my When: had nine albums to choose experiences on the business AUGUST 6 from of what to play. side of music. And the term Where: “Marrying the Gunnar’s CENTER STAGE What caused your return?

Daughter” is a Naval term Well, to see what the for punishment. Once I lay of the land was. At brought all those ideas in, first, I had no idea of what the reaction introducing the character, what would he look would be, but since then we’ve done about like, what would he sing like? That gave it the 150 concerts. So I’ve got a good idea of theme and the long title. the interest and the type of people we’re playing to now. So that took a long time, You are often, and unfairly, lumped into and then I decided to put the album out as the whole New Romantic movement. opposed to doing nothing, then bringing 35 years later, what’s your take on that the album out and saying, “I’m back” and scene? doing a tour.

I never really understood it. I was pretty much involved with the punk rock scene.

And how did the album happen?

You know, the band started in ’77 and we’d The actual album itself was written over done three years of touring before we got a the course of about a year. I worked with hit record. I think the New Romantic scene Boz Boorer, who writes with Morrissey -was very much club-orientated, in London, he’s an old friend of mine. He’s got his own with people dressing up for effect. For me, studio, so it was a very private endeavor, the make-up was part of the stagework and recording-wise. It came along at its own I never set foot in those clubs. But I think pace once I started writing it. because our success came around that time, we kinda get put into that era, if you know Since you hadn’t made an album since what I mean. But there are certainly people the mid-‘90s, what was your biggest from that era still around, Spandau Ballet and challenge?

Steve Strange and Duran Duran, and they’re I feel comfortable enough now to be still working so I think there’s something to able to share more with the audience and it, because it’s survived for so long. Time’s the make it a bit more personal, a bit more great test and if they survived it, then, you autobiographical. And that was something know, good luck to ‘em.

I’d never really touched upon that much. I hope people will listen to it, in sort of one The New Romantics was the updated go because it’s a conceptual experience. So Mods, in a way. So it’s all connected. the biggest change is it’s an album, rather It was very much a kind of street-level than singles surrounded by album tracks. movement. And thinking back, the Mods

ADAM ANT

did come out of the club scene too. All youth movements do come out of the clubs. Even the hippie movement came from the coffee bar scene. It’d be nice to see that reflected now with the young people, but I think they’re stuck behind their computer screens, thinkin’ that’s the world.

There are always pockets of people wanting to make a change.

Absolutely, yea. You’ve got to be optimistic about it. I just think the advent of the technological age has, unfortunately for songwriters its not been good with the downloading and the assumption that music should be free, which I don’t understand, because it costs money to make it. But something will come along.

Tell us a bit about your time in Tennessee.

Adam Ant as a Tennessee resident could be the very definition of culture shock.

Yeah, well, it was quite by accident. I was getting married at the time; sadly I’m divorced now, but at the time, the plan was to drive up from Miami through the USA and on to Vegas and get married in the Elvis Chapel. But on the way, we stopped in a little town called Dayton. I got a cup of coffee and get a property magazine, which I normally do to see what’s available. I saw this A-frame house in the Tennessee Valley with a coiuple of acres with it. We went and saw it and we just did one of those once in a lifetime decisions. We thought, we can do this here.

We can get married here, which we did, in the local town hall. We bought the house and settled there.

Was it a culture shock to you or did you tune into the obvious country-music inspirations?

The thing that struck me was the beauty of the countryside and the anonymous life.

It was very private and very friendly. It was the all-American experience. My next-door neighbor was a country-western fan and he’d drive me to see shows and all. So I got the appreciation of the whole scene, and there was quite a lot of music. I had an experience with the USA that I’d not seen, having toured it several times before. And the panorama of sounds from my music is quite influenced by country music. So it goes full circle, really.

FILM FILM

TRUMP Movie Reviews CARD THE ATTACK (R)

 If we can’t have peace in the Middle East the next-best thing we can hope for is good movies about the war. The Attack is one of them, a drama about a Palestinian Arab living in Israel (Amin, played by Ali Suliman) who is an award-winning surgeon. His wife of 15 years is killed in a suicide bombing and appears to have been the bomber. Amin is in denial about the possibility for half the movie, then launches his own investigation in his West Bank hometown. Director Ziad Doueiri makes wonderful use of flashbacks to show happy times and missed clues alike. Both By B. Love sides get a fair hearing and in the end, you and s one of AmericA’s most Amin are left to draw your own conclusions. successful and high profile business–Steve Warren men, Donald trump was well known

rendezvous illustrate, he’s also got flaws. The fast-rising Jordan (Friday Night Lights) works the dichotomy brilliantly, with a presence that can’t be denied. Five minutes into Fruitvale Station, you’ll see what all the Sundance and Cannes fuss was about. Five days after you watch it, you’ll still want to talk about it. And that right there may be the truest sign of a great movie.

–DeMarco Williams

The Donald Waxes Rhapsodic On The Celebrity Apprentice, “You’re Fired!” & Fixing NBC WHITE HOUSE DOWN

A

long before survivor producer mark Burnett AUGUSTINE (NR)in the Apprentice. But tapped him to star  there’s no denying that the reality show Like 2012’s Augustine curiosity looks at the turned trumpHysteria, from a cartoonish 19th century treatment and study “women’s into a bona fide phenomenon, withofhis signaproblems. ” Unlike“You’re Hysteria it does inextricaso without ture catchphrase– fired!”– a sense of humor – and without inventing the bly entering the pop culture lexicon. vibrator as a cure.

Augustine (Soko), a 19-yearAlthough the Apprentice initially flounold maid, is admitted to a hospital dered a bit in the ratings, Burnett and(which trumpis more likeupon a workhouse) after collapsing stumbled a winning formula by recruit-in convulsions.

Charcot (Vincent Lindon) thinks ing second- and third-tier actors, athletes, she canand help him secure foredition research models musicians for funding a celebrity “ovarian ” Despite becoming ofinto the show. nowhysteria. in its third incarnation, his celebrity poster child Augustine is asdisparate disrespected the Apprentice tosses as the other womenBret in the hospital, patients stars such as rocker michaels, wrestler and staff baseball alike. Charcot’s treatment of her Goldberg, legend Darryl strawberry, falls just short ofron waterboarding mutual former governor Blagojevich but andasharon desire develops osbourne together gradually for a varietybetween of team-them.

With soexercises little explained – the designed film’s more building and challenges to impressionistic than informative – you should test their business mettle. “the Donald,first ” as to theunderstand crazy-coiffed real going see Hysteria what’s estate magnate often known, recently on. And sinceifHysteria is much better,held once court reporters discuss show’s you’vewith seen it you’lltohave no the reason to see current season.

Augustine.

–Steve Warren

Can you tell us a little bit about the selection process?

BEFORE MIDNIGHT (R) it’s very interesting, because so many  celebrities want toshouldn’t be on thebeshow after the of Before Midnight the best movie success of thebut previous the summer it very two well seasons. may be. ItWe consists wanted athletes, some actors,(the someGreek mainlysome of two people talking models and some wrestlers, so i would say this backgrounds stay in the background; probably six or sevenbutpeople per spot isn’t a travelogue) you never get we tired of were turning the hardest is that listening.

It’sdown. a threequel but youthing needn’t have we really have some good people that want seen (or remember) Before Sunrise and Before toSunset go on to veryfollow badly.the Butcontinuing i guess maybe we’ll of romance save them for the next show, because it looks Jesse (Ethan Hawke) and Celine (Julie Delpy). like that’s going to happen.

They’ve been married for nine years now

and have twin daughters. The honeymoon

How is this going Springs to be different than is over – season think Hope a generation past seasons? younger - and they still love each other but are Well, when you have a success like we’ve less forgiving when their buttons are pushed. had, you don’t like to do too many changes.

Their story couldn’t be more specific, or more What we do have is a different tone. the cast universal. The only downside is that we’ll have has been very interesting: they’ve been very to wait another nine years for Part Four. tough and very nasty, but there’s also a lot of –Steve Warren fun and humor with respect to what happens, which i don’t think we had in the last one.

FRUITVALE STATION (UNRATED) With Joan [rivers] and with Piers [morgan], it was really nasty people really hating each In this truepeople story, hate it’s New Year’s but Eveit’sand other. these each other, Oscar Grant (Michael B. Jordan), his girlfriend also funny. i think that might be the biggest (Melonie Diaz)inand hisofhomies go across differentiation terms the three casts. the

Bay from Oakland to watch fireworks in San

Francisco.

On the train off ridetheback, there’s Can you usually tell right bat who is an altercation Station. Triggergoing to do well at andFruitvale who isn’t? happy respond.

Sadly, queswe know that’s transit always cops the most interesting the toheartbreaking But of instead tion me because i’dending. like to think myselfof feeling likepeople. a Dateline reenactment, asStation being okay with But often i’ll say, first-time Ryan tellsthen a vibrant “this one isdirector going to be aCoogler star,” and he story.out Oscar loving and father.

But turns to beisa adud.

You son never really know. as afeeljailhouse flashback weed-selling You like you’ve known and thesea celebrities

HANNAH ARENDT (NR)

 I like movies that make me feel smart by letting me understand without through reading about complex them forissues so many talkingbut down Hannah Arendt fails, years, a lottoofme. times somebody that younot because of the issues, butturns because director/codon’t think of so highly out to be a star. writer Trotta them You justMargarethe don’t knowvon what will surrounds happen with with enough detail miniseries. What’s pressure and the heatforof abattle. important is that Arendt (Barbara Sukowa), What does a celebrity have to do to really a German-Jewish philosopher/writer/ set themselves and show they’re professor who apart fled Europe for that America with in to win it?covers the 1961 war crimes trial herit husband, you Eichmann from seasons 1 and 2 and ofi can Nazitell Adolf for the New Yorker from Apprentice,with people and the stirsregular up controversy herreally unique want win. every once in aiswhile you’ll spin. to What’s not important getting to know have a quitter, but it doesn’t happen often. every friend, lover, colleague and intellectual isparring think thepartner reason they it is the level fromdoHannah’s pastofand intensity they feel their charity. present, while the for dialogue bouncesUnlike back and the regular Apprentice, where somebody forth between German and English and more works for me a pretty for a of cigarettes are for smoked thangood in asalary full season year, with this one the money goes to charMad Men. ity. Last year we raised millions of–Steve dollars.

Warren

everybody has a charity that they love; some are they’ve set up themselves THEfoundations INTERNSHIP (PG-13) years in advance of the show. so i think they  really fight more intense because it’s acomedy charCalifornia-set but locally filmed, this ity they’re fighting for. is for people who can’t get enough of: a) Vince

Vaughn and Owen Wilson, together for the

What are your favorite challenges to watch first time since Wedding Crashers in 2005; and the celebrities tackle? b) formulaic movies about losers who redeem Well, we do have a lot of different challengthemselves by turning a ragtag bunch of es, whether we go back to the selling of the oddballs and misfits into a winning team (like lemonade or doing something else very basic Dodgeball, alsotowith The&overage without having dealVaughn). with Proctor Gamunderachievers take a summer internship at ble or Kodak, etc. sometimes [sponsor-based Google (which looks more like a resort than challenges] are sort of interesting, but they’re a workplace), where thethe brass ring issuggest full-time expensive for us to do. ratings employment for the best and brightest. that the fans’ favorite part of the show byMost of isthethelaughs are in and the the trailer.

The rest is far boardroom, boardroom agreeable has gotten filler. longer over the years because of –Steve that. the challenges still have plenty of Warren time and we’re focused on both aspects, but we MANbeen OF STEEL (PG-13) have trying to lengthen the boardroom  of strong viewer requests. because

Superman is back! This record-breaking blockbuster director Zach Snyder You’re like a (from prosecuting attorney in the and producer Christopher Nolan) tells the familiar boardroom.

Do you meter your approach to story in apersonalities? new way. Viewers see the destruction different ofYes, planet Krypton and with the scientist sends i think you deal differentwho people his infant son to Earth, where our yellow sun differently. i deal with Goldberg differently imbues himwith withGovernor God-likeBlagojevich. powers. It fleshes than i deal i out the while truly dealt withfamiliar Dennis story rodman andproviding Joan rivers iconic moments and lots of other flash. contesBrit Henry differently than some of the tants. havea togreat haveSuperman that ability.and Russell CavillYou makes Crowe is excellent as his father. While lacking How do youWilliams feel goingscore backand in the boardthe John some of the room little hiatus?Man Of Steel keeps climaxafter thatathe film seeks, i just getriveted. a great kick of it.story i really watchers It’s a out classic toldlike well, itfull a lot. they want to renewthat it forwill another of action and moments stick with two or three seasons, and we’re thinking theatergoers. about that. i like having a little –bit of aPatterson break Justin between shows, where it goes on once a year.

MONSTERS UNIVERSITY (G)

Do you ever feel bad about firing someone,  or is just part the job?

Billy itCrystal andof John Goodman use their i alwaysvoices feel bad… no,origin not always. someteenage for the story of When times the hard ones being are Mikeyi don’t Met like Sullypeople. in college.

After when you really like and respect somebody dropped from the Scarer program by Dean and they make (Helen a mistake.

Like, Mike as an (Crystal) exHardscrabble Mirren),

WHITE HOUSE DOWN IS FUN, BUT CAN’T SEEM TO TELL IF IT WANTS TO BE A BUDDY COMEDY, A POLITICAL THRILLER, OR AN ACTION FLICK. IT’S JUST ANOTHER BIG ACTION MOVIE WITH UPPITY PRETENSIONS.

Our review:  and Sully’s (Goodman) last hope is to win the Scare Games; but their teammates are from Oozma Kappa (“We’re OK!”), the geekiest frat on campus. Yes, it’s The Internship for younger viewers. Pixar quality is evident throughout the production but there are no surprises and not enough laughs in the bland script. It’s preceded by The Blue Umbrella, a rainy romance that’s the one to beat for the Best Animated Short Oscar.

–Steve Warren

THE PURGE (R)

in an early Sam Shepard play) is sketchy at best but mostly cheesy. The actors play versions of themselves that may be partly fictional, but the zingers they hurl at each other involve their real credits (often less than career highlights).

Seth Rogen brings visiting bud Jay Baruchel to a party at James Franco’s house attended by Jonah Hill, Danny McBride, Craig Robinson and a lot of others who are soon consumed by the holocaust outside. There’s not as much stoner humor as I was expecting, but it’s obvious the writers were wasted when they conceived it.

–Steve Warren

 An example of a good premise going bad – or at least mediocre – The Purge takes place WHITE HOUSE DOWN (PG-13)  phrase, But It was a in a near where out the U.S.to crime It future turned Beratea isgood so low that everyone’s given a free pass one Channing Tatum is a cop on a D.C. tour with durIng very show was a LIttLe his daughter.

WhenI the Capitol is firebombed night FLuke. a year to rob, rape andthe murder with FIrst exasperated wIth oF the contestants and I used and bad guys seize the White House, Tatum impunity.

(It’s absurd but works one as a setup.) “you’re FIred!” [producer] the only person in a positionMark to save the Ethan the HawkeLIne, sells security systems to those is when (Jamie Foxx). lethal game have of hidewho want to protect homes on Purge Burnett andtheir I agreed to doPresident the show weA dIdn’t and-seek ensues, with Tatum trying to Night (Walpurgisnacht?), but his own family that. we thought we’d say, “get the heLL outrescue is insecure this year after his adolescent son his daughter while keeping the President alive. here” soMethIng. House Down is fun, but can’t seem to admits a desperate fugitive,oF whose pursuersor White it wants be a buddy a political track him My StartleMeter factif that youtoraised such comedy, self-sufficient ample, scottthere.

Hamilton, from the last flatlined season. tell thriller, or an action flick.

Magge Gyllenhaal after about the 20th shot of someone suddenly children? i had to let scott go. i’m a great fan of scott: James supporting appearing in the frame unsuspecting i’mWoods gettingdoa well lot ofincredit on theroles. chilHe won olympic gold behind medalsan and he’s a great andWell, But, despite the star power, it’s just individual. dren. everybody’s been asking about another ivanka champion. But he understood that he made Movieiswith pretensions.

Warren Big andAction the answer yes, uppity she’ll be back on the a mistake on the show and i really–Steve had no –Justin Patterson show. But they’re very good kids. they went choice. i felt very badly about that, because

(NR)him to be a great person, but i iSOMM considered  have to do what’s right. it’s never fun, but it’s Other when people’s obsessions can be fascinating. easier i don’t like somebody or when Fascinating be bad. too strong a word for they’re really,may really Somm (a slang abbreviation of sommelier, or

wine line, steward), butfired, it held my interest That “You’re ” became a pop more culthan phenomenon. a documentaryCan about The ture youwine talk should. about the origin focus isofonit?four men preparing for the annual it turned out to be atogood it exam for admission the phrase, Court ofbutMaster was a fluke. During verytest first show Sommeliers.

It’s a the killer with onei was day aeach littledevoted exasperated with one of the and con-Blind to Theory, Service testants theand line,Brian “You’re Tasting. and Iain,i used Dustin arefired!” like the When [producer] (or mark Burnett and i agreed Three Musketeers Muscatels?), inseparable to showbefore we didn’t have that.

Wehaving in do thethe weeks the exam despite thought say, “Get the hellDLynn, out of the here” or wives or we’d girlfriends at home. lone something.

And all of a sudden America went African American, appears to be included for crazy oversake. the show. happens to be a great diversity’s In theitlong run their education catchphrase. tVhumankind Guide or one theofmajor may not benefit likeofthat law or entertainment magazines didexams a poll seem and, after medical students, but their just “Here’s and one otherWill great, it was as brain-Johnny!” and nerve-wracking. there be a #3 on the topof100 phrases in television hissequel – Son Somm? tory! so that was a pretty big honor. it’sWarren been –Steve an amazing thing and an amazing phrase that just to work. really caught on, and THISseems IS THE END it(R) it’s been an amazing thing to watch.  The inside jokes are the best part of This Is the

What think is taking your biggest accomEnd, asdo theyou apocalypse place outside (as plishment, your business success or the

to very good schools, and they were great

WORLD Z (PG-13) students.WAR i couldn’t wait to get them on the

 show. i had no idea the show would be into This film and is nothing like Maxwhich Brooks’ critically itsninth tenth season, is pretty acclaimed nor does it worship at the amazing inbook, the world of television. altar of George Romero and his ilk. Instead, itThere’s comesbeen off lots like ofa news cross surrounding between 28 NBC Days lately,and and your showwith doesBrad wellPitt for(who them.also Later Contagion, What you in think NBCofneeds do to getGerry back produced) the role U.N. to employee in thewho’s ratings game?all over the globe trying Lane, running know Jeff Gaspin (chairman of nBc to Well, stop ithe zombie outbreak and save his Universal television and,only as family.

Director Marc entertainment) Forster wisely gives you know, he’sofnew to the role. i think he’s brief glimpses the undead during the whizzgoingopening to do a scene: spectacular at nBc. bang All wejob know is thethey horde more shows likeand thethat Apprentice. not isneed spreading quickly, these zombies necessarily from a reality standpoint, but sprint and pounce like cheetahs on the prowl. theyLane needflies shows that capture imaginaAs to South Korea,the then Israel in tion. an attempt to track the origins of the virus, frankly, certain showsup that on should Forster expertly ratchets theare tension, giving be changed because, while they get some us a global view of the problem never before prettyingood reviews, they don’tthe getfilm people seen a zombie flick.

Sure, could watching. nicedepth, to getparticularly both. We’veinhad use a little it’s more terms nominations and a lot good acofemmy character development.

But,of as a summer colades passed our way, and that’s always blockbuster, it’s well-crafted, absolutely nice. Butand, ultimately you have to have people riveting let’s be honest, scary as hell. watch. nBc is going to really do well.–B. i know Love their leadership and i think they’re winners, so i think they’ll turn it around.

insiteatlanta.com • July 2013 • PG 13

MUSIC

MUSIC

Album Reviews Reviews by B. Love, John B. Moore, & Lee Valentine Smith

The Dean’s List PUBLIC ENEMY– Planet Earth: The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Greatest Rap Hits (MVD Audio) Best-of collection for one of hip-hop’s greatest acts JM: I’m not going to wade into the debate of whether or not Public Enemy actually belongs in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame (they do). But their recent induction is obviously the impetus behind this new collection of re-mastered hits. And if it took a Hall of Fame induction to get these songs on vinyl again? Well, hell, it was worth it.

Yes, it’s frustrating that only 11 songs from their expansive catalogue are represented here, and that it largely ignores their revolutionary first two albums (what, no love for the groundbreaking It Takes a Nation of Millions to Hold Us Back?). But there is not a single track on this record that doesn’t deserve to be here. From the stellar opener, “Welcome to the Terrordome,” to the triumphant “Fight the Power,” there is no filler at all on this album.

Lyrically, the band could not be touched, deftly rapping about politics and social issues, and coming out with some of the most original samples of their era. At a time when the genre seems to focus way too much on shout outs to luxury brands, a song like “By the Time I get to Arizona”– still remarkably relevant even now, decades later– rings out like a clarion call for progressive action.

Though it may have its faults, Planet Earth is still a superb celebration of one of the most important bands to come out of the ‘90s… in any genre.

MIDNIGHT OIL – Essential Oils (Sony Legacy) Socio-politically charged alt-rockers at their very best BL: It’s the summer of 1984, and I’m not quite 16 years old. I’m hanging out with my buddy Byron, one of a handful of new wave/punk kids at my high school in rural Georgia.

We get into his car, he inserts a cassette, and out blasts “Only The Strong,” the second track from Midnight Oil’s 1982 album, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1. It feels like a sonic bomb hitting me squarely in the chest, with Peter Garrett’s dynamic vocals providing the melodic yin to the cutting yang of guitarist Jim Moginie’s leads. It’s aggressive, progressive and potent, and it immediately becomes my favorite album.

Nearly 30 years later, Legacy’s 2-CD best-of collection reminds me of a PG 14 • July 2013 • insiteatlanta.com

favorite band I hadn’t listened to in years.

In retrospect, I appreciate the Australian legends even more. Early songs like “US Forces,” “Power & the Passion,” and “Short Memory” play like a fervent sociopolitical call to arms, advancing the group’s anti-nuclear, pro-environmental and indigenous rights agenda. Knowing that Garrett (who got his law degree back in the ‘70s) went on to serve as President of the Australian Conservation Foundation, sat of the International Board of Greenpeace, and became Australia’s Minister for the Environment, Heritage & the Arts in 2007 only reinforces the strength of his lyrical convictions.

Not every song on this 36-track set proves as lyrically moving and musically catchy as breakthrough hits such as “Beds Are Burning” and “Blue Sky Mine.” Their early sound (1978-1981) veered into shambling pub-punk on occasion, while latter efforts show Garrett’s attentions divided by his burgeoning political career. But few alt-rock bands managed to harness a power and passion for saving the world quite like Midnight Oil, and Essential Oils is precisely what its title implies.

WILLIE NILE – American Ride (Loud and Proud) Part Springsteen.

Part Parker. All good LVS: Willie Nile roared onto the early ‘80s music scene with two thoroughly rockin’ albums on Arista. A decade later, he’d switched to Columbia and released the stellar Places I Have Never Been, with a slew of guest stars and a wonderfully New York-centric blend of Bruce Springsteen’s growl and Graham Parker’s sly wit.

Now he’s topped that collection with his newest album, American Pride. The disc bristles with his usual emphatic delivery and the hope and pathos of a cast of characters who alternately praise and poke the golden American experience.

Taking a cue from the intriguing narratives of his 2011 LP, The Innocent Ones, Nile takes the songwriting quality a notch higher this time out, and the results are absolutely stunning.

The singer-songwriter handles piano and guitar, and co-produced the rousing cache of tunes with Stewart Lerman. “If I Ever See the Light” applies an E-Street beat to an anthemic, fist-pumping setcloser. Alternately, “She’s Got My Heart” is a pure and direct proclamation of love.

But the best song of the pack is Nile’s raucous and ribald look at the deity. “God Laughs,” co-written with Eric Bazilian of The Hooters, takes the tired “What if God was one of us?” sentiment and has a few good-natured laughs at mankind’s expense. Shifting gears a bit, Nile slams a reworked version of Jim Carroll’s “People Who Died” into a punked-up personal tribute to his own brother John. Finally, he brings the brilliant song cycle to a

fittingly dramatic conclusion with the indelible imagery of the rustic “There’s No Place Like Home.”

Rest of the Class THE BUILDERS & THE BUTCHERS – Western Medicine (Badman) Gothic folk-rockers stuck in a rut JM: These Portland boys have built a solid rep for blending folk, country and indie-rock. But therein lies their biggest problem: Their sound seems muddled and directionless for most of the album.

The band is known for their dark, almost gothic themes. Western Medicine, their fourth full-length release, is no different. Drawing influences from author Cormac McCarthy, this album is one of their bleakest so far. Songs like “Dirt in the Ground” and “Watching the World” could serve equally well as a soundtrack to either the Depression era or a post-apocalyptic world.

There are some decent songs on the record (most notably “Desert is On Fire”), but not nearly enough to sustain much interest throughout the dozen tracks here.

The band has built a steady following since their debut, and Western Medicine will likely not scare them off. But neither will it win over many new converts. (C) JULIAN LENNON- Everything Changes (Nova/ Conehead) Peace, Love and Steven Tyler LVS: The new album from Julian Lennon is his first full-length since ’98, and was originally released with a slightly different track list in 2011. In the new, definitive edition, the song “In Between” from the earlier collection has been replaced by “Someday,” the recently released single, featuring improbable duet-partner Steven Tyler.

Following the mostly-overlooked Photograph Smile, the new collection features the delightful and typically whimsical “Lookin’ 4 Luv.” Obviously Lennon has a recent penchant for the word “Luv.” His guest-spot on the pulsing “Luv XXX” was a major highlight from last year’s Aerosmith album, Music From Another Dimension!

Collectors, take note: In a rare moment when the (often-inferior) digital release is far superior to the physical package, hardcore fans and even pedestrian Beatles enthusiasts should definitely check out the iTunes re-package of the record, which features a thoroughly enjoyable video documentary called Through The Picture Window.

As for the album itself, it’s a gentle reminder of the familiar messages of the beloved Lennon lineage of peace and togetherness, all presented here in a winningly winsome volume of intelligent, adult-oriented pop-rock. (B) SOUTHSIDE JOHNNY & THE ASBURY PARK JUKES – Playlist: The Very Best Of (Legacy/Epic) Jersey rockers forever in Springsteen’s shadow JM: It’s gotta be tough for Southside Johnny & The Asbury Park Jukes, having to stand in the shadow of Jersey’s favorite son, Bruce Springsteen. The groups even shared some players in the early ‘70s (most famously Steven Van Zandt, who moved over to the E Street Band, but produced some of Southside Johnny’s earlier efforts). While both bands share an affinity for tight horn sections, the Asbury Park Jukes have always been more about white boy soul, compared to the E Street band’s traditional rock focus.

This 14-song Playlist collection is hardly exhaustive– how do you begin to tackle a best-of collection when you’re culling from more than 20 albums? But it’s still a fantastic introduction for newbies.

Some of the songs here haven’t held up too well over the decades. But others, including a few of their best known songs (“The Fever” and “Talk to Me,” in particular), still sound fresh today.

The highlights are some of the live takes collected rom shows in the mid-‘70s… which is not surprising from a band that has always given more on the stage than they have in the studio. (B-) THE LONELY H – Self-titled (Self Released) Alt-country rockers discover their sound JM: The guys in Lonely H started out as a garage band in Washington State. But, over the years and albums, they have gravitated towards more of an alternative country sound. They can still rock when they want to, but there’s a bit more of a worn in, dust-crusted-onthe-boots swagger to their songs now.

Decamping to Nashville before working on this record only made the evolution seem all the more stark.

The result is their impressive, eponymous, fourth full-length. The vocals are sharper, the band is tighter, and the songs… well, they’re just better. Lonely H showed promise on their earlier albums, especially 2009’s Concrete Class, but their latest album finds the band sounding invigorated and clearly stretching to be more than just a best-kept secret (or yet another cult band). With any justice, this record will find the broader mainstream audience that this band deserves. (B+)

MUSIC

Burritos • Tacos • Quesadillas • Empanadas • Beer • Wine • Margaritas

In Beans We Trust!

GRAND FUNK RAILROAD

Former KISS Member Talks About His Current Band and Tour

BY DAVE COHEN

O

NE OF THE LEGENDARY BANDS of the 1970’s, Grand Funk Railroad can trace the beginnings of its success back to an early breakout performance at the Atlanta Pop Festival in 1969. If you’ve never seen them live or even owned a GFR album or cd there’s a good chance you’ve heard them. This once power trio is an American band best known for their aptly titled anthem “We’re an American Band.”

With two original members, Mel Schacher and Don Brewer, Grand Funk Railroad returns to the Atlanta area with a stop at the Frederick Brown, Jr. Amphitheater in Peachtree City on August opportunity to play with so many famous artists.

10th. The band also features well-known lead guitarist Bruce Kulick, who’s been with the band While I’m doing it it’s a job. I take it pretty seriously and I want to do my best but when I for twelve years after spending twelve years as a look back I always am very grateful. I tend to member of KISS. INsite’s Dave Cohen recently keep everything, which takes up some room spoke with Kulick in between tour stops. in my home, but the more I’ve been looking at

things like from my KISS past and even prior It’s got to be cool for you to be playing with GFR, one of the bands that you’ve cited as being to that, from the band with Michael Bolton, I realize that there is a real history to my career. I one of your early influences. am quite proud of it.

I was a big fan of the British Invasion rock

bands. Cream was just a huge influence for me, With Grand Funk’s tours seemingly a little less Led Zeppelin, you know, it started with The hectic and with time in between shows, that Beatles but when it got into really guitar driven blues rock kind of stuff and improvising on stage, allows you time to work on other projects you’re involved with. and great drummers, you always had Cream Yes, we all enjoy that. I know that when Don and The Who who would stand out. Same thing and Mel decided to put together this version of with Led Zeppelin. I always thought that Grand the band, because Mark Farner went solo, it was Funk was kind of like the American answer to never the intention to get on the bus and tour that because there was something a little more non-stop. It was always to do fly in and out dates home grown and funky about them, but still, on the weekends and we’ve been they were kind of a power trio. successful with it. Everybody The keyboards didn’t come until GRAND FUNK quite gets to go home and do what they a little later or Mark (Farner) RAILROAD & want to do. I’m always busy doing played some keyboards. They were probably, like I said, the only SPIN DOCTORS some sessions or working on songs for a solo record of my own. Some American band that reminded Where me of a power trio so I was pretty FREDERICK BROWN JR. of the other guys keep busy as well with other projects. That’s a bonus fascinated with them.

AMPHITHEATER with this gig.

When There are two original GFR SATURDAY, AUGUST 10 You still collaborate with Paul members still with the band; How Stanley and Gene Simmons on Mel Schacher and Don Brewer.

CALL FOR TICKETS some KISS projects as well?

How is it working with them?

(770) 631-0630 There’s no reason that I should It is such an incredible rhythm WWW.AMPHITHEATER.ORG not be in a good space with those section. Don Brewer is known guys. They gave me an amazing as being one of the solid opportunity for those twelve years drummers who could also go crazy and do an and I certainly got what it was to be in the band, amazing drum solo which he still has in the if you know what I mean. The band has this long show. He’s also known as being Bob Seger’s career that is still going so my twelve years still touring drummer. Bob seems not to want to mean something. I was at Gene’s wedding. I’m tour without him so he kind of works his tours close with Paul as well and was invited to his big around Grand Funk, which kind of gives you 60th birthday party two years ago. We keep in an indication of what a talented drummer Don touch. I helped out on that Psycho Circus record. is. Mel is just a monster on the bass. He was I mean, there is a respect and I’m grateful that I one of those pioneers of distortion on the bass, continue to maintain a friendship with them. moving lines that really kept the song together.

Some of the classic riffs he played in some of their hits really made an influence on many bass Atlanta has always been a good city for Grand Funk Railroad and KISS and for GFR this is an players after him. There’s no doubt that I have a opportunity to get back near to where it started very formidable rhythm section behind me that happening during the early days of the band. makes it quite fun to play with.

Yea, I’m aware of the big festival that they

performed at years ago. I’ve always considered Do you ever have a “Wow” moment when you think about the people you have been fortunate Atlanta an important music city because there’s just so much good music that’s come out of to work with and play alongside? People like there. It’s going to be a lot of fun when we’re Michael Bolton, Meatloaf, Paul Stanley and there. It’s the one town that I do have some Gene Simmons in KISS and GFR originals friends in. I’ve visited and spent some money in Mel Schacher and Don Brewer. some music stores there so I’m looking forward All the time. I’m always very grateful and to the Atlanta gig in August, definitely.

I know that I’m blessed that I’ve had this

BEST TACOS Check for our Daily Specials!

Sunday & Tuesday 11am – 10pm Wednesday – Saturday 11am – 11pm • Closed Mondays

1242 Glenwood Ave • East Atlanta 404.622.9448 www.tomatillos-atlanta.com

Landmark DINER CATERING AVAILABLE

N E P O

24 Hours

3652 Roswell Rd.

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

SUMMER SPECIAL 3 Course Dinners $9.99!

Dinner, Soup & Dessert 2 – 9pm Daily

Tasty Sandwiches • Salads • Dinner Fare • Chicken & Veal • Seafood Platters • Greek & Italian Cuisine Breakfast Menu • Appetizers • Steak & Chops • Dessert Menu • Kid’s Menu

Your Neighborhood Pizzeria!

BEST PIZZA!

& Multiple Atlanta Locations: www.JohnnysPizza.com insiteatlanta.com • July 2013 • PG 15

MUSIC

SUMMER LOVE

INsite’s Guide to the Season’s Best Concerts, Albums & Festivals

BY BRET LOVE, DEMARCO WILLIAMS, JOHN B. MOORE & LEE VALENTINE SMITH

A

S THE JULY SUN HEATS UP THE STREETS and suburbs of Atlanta, INsite has prepared our annual guide for your summer music enjoyment.

Internationally known as one of the most exciting centers of entertainment in the world, our ATL-based crew have scoured the newest releases, festivals and events to bring you a comprehensive issue, filled with the hottest new releases.

And there’s definitely something for everyone, with new albums on the way from Ciara, The Preservation Hall Jazz Band, Candice Glover, Pet Shop Boys, Van Dyle Parks, Maria Carey, Glen Campbell, KT Tunstall, Superchunk, Travis, Nine Inch Nails. Heck, even David Lynch has a new album, and you can read about it here.

Summer is also the peak of the music festival season and we’ve searched out the very best, from the most popular (Lollapalooza) to the slightly off the radar (Finger Lakes Grassroots Festival). We’ll give you a general overview of the vibes and the amazing line-ups of each. So sit back, relax and enjoy an issue that’s hot as the Fourth (and every other day) of July.

ROBERT POLLARD

ALBUMS

Honey Locus Honky Tonk The term prolific is almost an understatement in describing Guided By Voices frontman Robert Pollard. Honey Locust Honky Tonk is his 19th solo album since 1996 (that’s in addition to GBV’s 19 albums). The 17 songs on this one are said to be a direct follow-up to 2012’s Jack Sells the Cow, and will feature Pollard’s “four Ps: pop, punk, psych and prog.” If you simply can’t get enough of the singer, GBV just put out their latest full-length album in April. (July 9)

PRESERVATION HALL JAZZ BAND

That’s It! A staple of New Orleans’ French Quarter for 50 years, Preservation Hall has remained a durable symbol of Louisiana’s rich musical culture. Elements of jazz, funk, gospel and zydeco blend together in a spicy sonic gumbo, with the Jazz Band its foremost conservationists. Now led by Ben Jaffe (son of founders Allan and Sandra Jaffe), the band is stretching its creative muscles on their latest album, their first ever to be comprised of original material. Produced by Jaffe and Jim James, That’s It! brings New Orleans jazz into the 21st century in fine style. (July 9)

Ciara PG 16 • July 2013 • insiteatlanta.com

CIARA

Ciara There was a moment there in late spring when it seemed like every time you cut on the radio, “Body Party,” Ciara’s first official single, was playing. That’s a good look for Ci Ci, a talent who hasn’t had a smash hit since “Love Sex Magic” with Justin Timberlake in ‘09. Another good sign is that the liner notes for this fifth album are filled with features (Nicki Minaj), writers (Rodney Jerkins) and producers (Cam Wallace) who fit right in to the artist’s fun, flirty wheelhouse.

Party on, Ciara. (July 9)

COURT YARD HOUNDS

Amelita Two thirds of the Dixie Chicks return with a sophomore collection that includes the infectious single “Sunshine,” a co-write with Jonatha Brooke, Alex Dezen and Strayer, a potent mix for the perfect blend of commercial country-pop and oddly offkilter Top 40. With Natalie Maines also working under her own name, the two sisters retain the pure harmony of country with the popsmarts of later ‘70s AM radio. (July 16)

CANDICE GLOVER

Music Speaks Say what you will about American Idol’s waning ratings; how the Mariah Carey-Nikki Minaj catfights overshadowed the performers; how its tired Motown/Burt Bacharach themes are rendering the show increasingly irrelevant. As long as it’s discovering church-bred talent like this year’s winner, the show serves its purpose. Whether belting a brassy Shirley Bassey classic or kicking a killer cover of The Cure’s “Lovesong,” the 23-year-old St. Helena Island, SC native can SANG. Hope producers give her material worthy of her prodigious pipes. (July 16)

MAYER HAWTHORNE

Where Does This Door Go The unassuming Hawthorne may never grace the cover of Rolling Stone, but he’ll always have his core group of fans who’ll follow his Dasani-clear falsetto wherever it leads. On this third project, however, the crooner makes a sharp left from the 21st century doo-wop we’ve come to tap our toes to. The first single, “Her Favorite Song,” is unquestioned soul, but with a sharp edge to it. Pharrell Williams lends his ear for futuristic funk to the production of “Reach Out Richard.” Other

Court Yard Hounddogs

moments promise to be equally chill, a move reflecting how living in Cali has influenced the Michigan native. Hope fans come along for the ride. (July 16)

DAVID LYNCH

The Big Dream Best known as the visionary director behind classics like Blue Velvet and Wild At Heart, David Lynch’s music is a lot like his movies: Weird, wild and somewhat difficult to comprehend. In truth, his music might be more accessible (not that that’s saying much), from his early collaborations with Julee Cruise to 2011’s Crazy Clown Time. His second studio LP continues to explore his enigmatic electronic blues sound, including a collaboration with Swedish singersongwriter Lykke Li on the lead single. You may not grok his art, but Lynch is never boring. (July 16)

VAN DYKE PARKS

Songs Cycled The logical (if a bit delayed) follow-up to ‘69s Song Cycle finds the modern-day Parks reviewing his recent series of 7” singles into a collection of timeless tunes, all lovingly packaged for fans and admirers with a decidedly purposeful spin. The evolutionary collection showcases the wildly creative musician on a creative, albeit modern, plane, with nods to the Brill Building pop, rootsy soul and smart lyrics that have marked the composers’ legacy, from pure Beach Boys pop to mature Brian Wilson collaborations.

HAWTHORNE HEIGHTS

Zero The Ohio post-hardcore band Hawthorne Heights opted for a concept album for their fifth release. Zero focuses on dystopian themes. According to a press release, the new record “poses a theme that, no matter how hard life gets or how many seemingly insurmountable odds you may encounter, everyone can get a fresh start. This theme is set against a war-ravaged background.” Produced

by Brian Virtue (30 Seconds To Mars, Chevelle, Audioslave), the band will be playing songs from the album throughout this summer’s Warped Tour. (July 30t)

GLEN CAMPBELL

See You There The prolific singer-songwriter is now credited for his 62nd studio album with the release of this new collection of revisited hits. Granted, it’s not pure Campbell, nor is it his usual collaborations with the late orchestral studio whiz Al Delory. Rather, it activates some familiar tracks with the aid of recent pals Dave Darling and Dave Kaplan, and the collection resonates with a ghostly presence of Campbell’s unique vocals with a respectful new

Yellowcard

technology. The classic “Gentle On My Mind” especially comes alive with a modern vibe, and the rest of his vintage hits get reworked with a gentle, respectful hand and recently recorded vocals. (August 6)

KT TUNSTALL

Invisible Empire / Crescent Moon The likeable singer-songwriter is back with a pastoral collection of her organic folk. The title track represents a welcome collaboration with gritty Howe Gelb, and the rest echoes her previous works with a sepia-toned resonance and a defiantly curled-lip to industry standards. This could be her best album yet, as the wizened delivery ensures a sort of iconic permanence to the entire collection. A popular Top 40 hit? Doubtful. An intelligent fan fave? Definitely! (August 6)

YELLOWCARD

Ocean Avenue Acoustic Ocean Avenue was the fourth record for the pop punk band Yellowcard, but it was the album that changed everything for the band.

Released in 2003, it went on to sell more than a million copies and took the band from opening status to headliners and had them on the road for the better part of the next year.

With the 10-year anniversary of that record coming up this summer, the band is releasing an acoustic version Ocean Avenue on CD and a limited edition pressing on white vinyl. The band will also hit the road playing acoustic shows across the US, including a stop at Riot Fest Chicago. (August 13)

TRAVIS

Where You Stand Scottish rockers Travis were Coldplay long before Coldplay. Though their sound initially had a slightly more harder edge than what they are usually associated with today, alt pop rockers Travis have been at it since 1990, paving the way for everyone from Keane to The Fray. This summer the band is putting out Where You Stand, their seventh studio album, and first in five years. Judging from the eponymous first single, the album will likely stay close in sound to their last several releases; mellow fare, but well written. The band will promote the record with a number of festival appearances this summer.

(August 20)

SUSAN TEDESCHI

Made-Up Mind As the soulful centerpiece of the Tedeschi-Trucks Band, singer-guitarist Susan Tedeschi has– with the help of an amazing combo that includes busy guitarist Derek Trucks (Allman Brothers Band)– crafted a savvy blues-rock diatribe of emphatic and delicate quality. With the funky bass-rockin’ centerpiece of Otiel Burbridge, the whole unit cooks with the spicy precision of a seasoned blues band, all ultimately defying the relatively-youthful spirit of the group. This is a great document of their live shows, but still misses the spontaneous element of jam that makes the music fun to hear and watch. (August 20)

SUPERCHUNK

I Hate Music One of the best things going in DIY indie-pop for more than two decades, Superchunk are finally turning in their 10th album this summer. The North Carolina-based band has been churning out uncompromising sing-along indie anthems since 1990. Thanks to owning their own label (the consistently impressive Merge Records), their albums are unmolested by clueless label execs. I Hate Music is their second record after a 10-year-haitus, and is expected to be as aggressive and energetic as 2011’s Majesty Shredding. (August 20)

Susan Tedeschi

FRANZ FERDINAND

Right Thoughts, Right Words, Right Action It’s hard to believe it’s been a decade since these Glasgowbased art-rockers released their debut EP and got tagged as “the Scottish Interpol.” And even harder to believe it’s been four years since their last album, Tonight: Franz Ferdinand.

Described by frontman Alex Kapronos as “The Intellect vs.

The Soul, played out by some dumb band,” their new album was recorded over the course of a year in Scotland, London, Stockholm and Oslo. With songs like “Right Action,” “Brief Encounters” and “Fresh Strawberries” being played live on tour throughout 2012, expect a tightly focused record of propulsive post-punk/New Wave-influenced gems. (August 27)

GOODIE MOB

Music Festival,” returns this year with Pitbull, the ubiquitous Avett Brothers, the return of local faves Violent Femmes, Tom Petty, New Kids On The Block and even Rush. Not all on the same night, of course. The whole festival grooves with the easy, hometown vibe of a block party. It’s held in the 75-acre Henry Maier Festival Park along the Milwaukee lakefront, and the darn thing lasts for 11 days with 11 stages.

Since the mid-‘70s, it’s always included the 4th of July holiday. Acts as diverse as Bob Hope and Dolly Parton have played the event, and this year’s schedule is just as wildly varied, including The Eagles, John Mayer, Alice Cooper, comic Lewis Black, a Led Zeppelin tribute and even ol’ Music Midtown mainstay, Cake.

ROCKSTAR ENERGY DRINK MAYHEM FESTIVAL

(June 29-Aug 4, various cities) Age Against The Machine Warped Tour founder Kevin Lyman has done for metal You suffered through The Voice what he did for punk rock more than a decade ago, bringing performance. You even tolerated the music to the masses (black masses in this case). Stopping the half-hearted single, “Fight To in 26 cities on this year’s run headliners include Rob Zombie, Win.” Still, you’re optimistic (albeit Mastodon, Five Finger Death Punch and Amon Amarth. very cautiously) that the Goodie Mob from those two recent miscues Haunting the side stages are bands like Machine Head, Children of Bodom, Job for a Cowboy, Motionless in White is just a façade for the real group and City in the Sea along with a slew of others. Expect plenty recording this long-awaited CD. of black t-shirts and pale kids.

But if the first Goodie project in nine years is going to be more Soul FINGER LAKES GRASSROOTS FESTIVAL Food than One Monkey Don’t Stop (July 18-21, Trumansburg, NY) No Show, it’s going to need some Often known as “GrassRoots,” this gathering just north serious dedication in the recording of Ithaca draws nearly 20,000 visitors annually. Presenting booth. The Janelle Monae-featured around 70 musicians, bands and dance troupes on four “Special Education” is a start. Now, stages, visitors can hear a heapin’ helpin’ of bluegrass, if a rumored collaboration with T.I. Cajun, zydeco, African, reggae, country, Americana, Native comes to fruition, we may be in for some serious lateAmerican music, old-time music, summer heat. (August 27) Irish music, jam-band rock, hip-hop, Pitchfork Music Festival and more. This year, the line-up NINE INCH NAILS includes headliners such as Emmylou Hesitation Marks Harris and Rodney Crowell, Donna In recent years, Trent Reznor has The Buffalo and Rusted Root, as well been focused on creating critically as great (but not quite household) acclaimed movie scores for The names, including singer-songwriter Social Network and The Girl With Bear Fox, Alan Rose & the Restless the Dragon Tattoo (for which he Elements, Anna Coogan, the Bubba won an Oscar). He hasn’t released George String Band, and many more. an album or performed under the Nine Inch Nails name since 2009. So PITCHFORK MUSIC FESTIVAL it was something of a surprise when (July 19-21, Chicago’s Union Park) he announced that he was getting Pitchfork Media’s annual 3-day NIN back together, signing with hipster fest has positioned itself Columbia Records, and launching a as a more indie alternative to major tour that would last into 2014.

Lollapalooza, taking over Chicago’s The newly inspired Reznor describes the album, which he Union Park for a 3-day weekend every July. This year’s lineup recorded with Atticus Ross and Alan Moulder, as “frankly offers the smorgasbord of styles you’d expect from the online fucking great.” Color us intrigued… (Sept 3) tastemakers, from post-punk and alt-rock to hip-hop, R&B, and even prog. Björk, Joanna Newsome and Wire are among Friday’s highlights; Belle & Sebastian, Solange, The Breeders (playing Last Splash in its entirety), Swans, Low, and Trail VANS WARPED TOUR of Dead are all must-sees on Saturday; and Sunday features (June 15-Aug 4, various cities) Killer Mike, El-P, MIA, R. Kelly and indie-rock stalwarts Yo Almost old enough to legally drink, the Warped Tour La Tengo. punk rocks traveling circus – turns 19 this year, making it a rite of passage for suburban kids who like their music loud.

NEWPORT FOLK FESTIVAL Though it started out purely as a punk rock festival, over (July 26-28, Newport, RI) the years they have shoehorned in a number of different The Newport Folk Festival began as the counterpoint to genres and this year, you can see everyone from electronica the Newport Jazz Festival. The Rhode Island event, active outfits to Americana bands. With 10 stages (yes, 10 stages! since 1959, is a friendly gathering that has attracted a wealth This year) and 100 bands, headliners include The Aquabats, of iconic performers and legendary moments. Now skewed Reel Big Fish, Sleeping With Sirens and Chiodos. Overall, a to an Americana slate, the fest features acts from folk, blues, pretty weak lineup, but among those worth seeking out (if country and bluegrass scenes. Historically, on July 25, 1965, they happen to be playing in your city) include Motion City Bob Dylan was booed when he performed with backing Soundtrack, Joey Briggs, Austin Lucas, The Swellers and Big from Mike Bloomfield, supposedly for abandoning the folk D and the Kids Table. tradition. But this year’s acts also eschew tradition while respecting history. Sets from Feist, Beck, The Avett Brothers SUMMERFEST and Dawes are key acts on a wildly diverse slate of music.

(June 26-30 & July 2-7, Milwaukee) The venerable Summerfest, billed as “The World’s Largest continues on page 18

FESTIVALS

Franz Ferdinand

Nine Inch Nails insiteatlanta.com • July 2013 • PG 17

MUSIC from page 17

SATCHMO SUMMER FEST

(Aug 1-4, New Orleans) As you might expect, the Satchmo Fest celebrates the life and music of Louis “Satchmo” Armstrong, the larger than life musician who put the spice in the gumbo of N’awlins music and culture. The fun fest features traditional and contemporary jazz, brass bands and children’s programming.

This year, performers include Leroy Jones, Jeremy Davenport, Connie Jones’ Crescent City Jazz Band, The Palmetto Bug Stompers, Rebirth Brass Band, Treme Brass Band, Leah Chase, James Andrews, Lars Edegran’s New Orleans Ragtime Orchestra and many others, creating a Crescent City party that spills over from the stages into the streets.

LOLLAPALOOZA

TICKETS ON SALE NOW

SATURDAY, JULY 20

AARON'S AMPHITHEATRE AT LAKEWOOD CHARGE BY PHONE: 800-745-3000. ALL DATES, ACTS AND TICKET PRICES SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE. TICKET PRICES SUBJECT TO APPLICABLE FEES.

(Aug 2-4, Chicago’s Grant Park) After beginning the decade as one of the seminal celebrations of alternative music, Lollpalooza had become something of a joke by the late ‘90s, underlining the absurdity of turning underground culture into a massmarketed mainstream commodity. Perry Farrell’s brainchild has functioned much better under its current guise as a destination festival, attracting hundreds of thousands of fans to Chicago’s scenic Grant Park every August. This year’s lineup is as impressively well rounded as any music fan could hope for: From indie darlings like Cat Power and The Postal Service to folk-rockers like The Lumineers and Mumford & Sons, from old school icons like New Order and The Cure to new BMOCs like The National and Phoenix, the roster reads like a who’s who in alt-rock.

But the big draw should be Nine Inch Nails, reforming for their first tour since 2009.

OUTSIDE LANDS

Fri, July 12 Sat, July 20 July 25 July 30 July 31 Sat, Aug 3 Sat, Aug 10

America’s Most Wanted Music Festival

Lil’ Wayne w/ T.I.

311 w/ Cypress Hill, G. Love and Special Sauce Vans Warped Tour w/ The Used, Chiodos, Motion City Soundtrack, Bring Me The Horizon, August Burns Red and many more!

Rockstar Energy Drink Presents

Mayhem Festival w/ Rob Zombie, Five Finger Death Punch, Mastodon, Amon Amarth and many more!

Mermaids of Alcatraz Tour

Train w/ Gavin Degraw and The Script Matchbox Twenty and Goo Goo Dolls w/ Kate Earl Flashback Festival w/ Cameo, Average White Band, SWV,

Zapp and Brick

Aug 29

Blake Shelton w/ Easton Corbin and Jana Kramer

Sept 12

Depeche Mode

Sat, Sept 14 Sept 16 Sept 19 Fri, Sept 27

(Aug 9-11, San Francisco) A relatively new event, the Outside Lands Festival started in 2008 at Golden Gate Park.

The first one included over 60 musical acts from around the world, in addition to a number of impressive art installations. With attendance on average of 40,000 to 60,000 a day, the event was originally geared toward the new green movement, and still includes numerous initiatives to create an ecofriendly environment, including ridesharing plans. Often broadcast as specials on the festival’s YouTube account, performers for this year’s event include a well-publicized headlining appearance by Paul McCartney.

But the support acts are just as stellar, including The Red Hot Chili Peppers, Nine

Kid Rock w/ ZZ Top and Uncle Kracker Honda Civic Tour

Maroon 5 w/ Kelly Clarkson and PJ Morton Miranda Lambert & Dierks Bentley w/ Randy Rogers Band and The Cadillac Three

Born & Raised Tour

John Mayer w/ Phillip Phillips

4PACK LAWN TICKETS available for select shows

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

PG 18 • July 2013 • insiteatlanta.com

Outside Lands Festival

Inch Nails, Willie Nelson, Gary Clark, Jr., Camper Van Beethoven, Phoenix, Yeah Yeah Yeahs, and Hall & Oates.

RIOT FEST CARNIVAL

(Aug 24–25 in Toronto; Sept 13–15 in Chicago; Sept 21–22 in Denver) Started in 2005 at numerous venues across Chicago, this under-the-radar punk rock fest expanded to the East Coast in 2011, successfully staging shows in Philly which led to last year’s expansion to other cities.

When the Warped Tour decided to ignore traditional punk bands and their fans (i.e. those who don’t shop at Hot Topic) in favor of courting fickle tweens, Riot Fest opened up its arms to the older punk bands. This year is no exception with a stellar lineup that includes Violent Femmes, Dinosaur Jr. Rancid, Rocket From the Crypt, some mediocre bands like Blink-182 and Fall Out Boy and in the greatest music festival booking coup to date, they have managed to reunite The Replacements. Suck it Coachella!

ROCK THE BELLS

(Sept 7-Oct 5, 4 cities) Time sure does fly when you’re having fun reciting rap songs. Rock the Bells, the undisputed king of hip-hop tours, is celebrating its 10th year with a 40-act, fourcity extravaganza (Los Angeles, San Francisco, Washington D.C. and New York) that’s nothing short of extraordinary.

It doesn’t matter if you prefer your rhymes with substance (Kendrick Lamar, Common) or full of nonsense (Juicy J), Bells has somebody for you. Upstarts (Danny Brown), legends (Rakim) and even a few guests from the other side (holograms of the late Eazy E and ODB) all plan on celebrating the festive occasion.

MUSIC MIDTOWN

(Sept 20-21, The Meadow at Piedmont Park) For a few years there, it looked as if Atlanta’s signature music festival might go the way of the dodo. But the 2013 lineup, which features 30 artists on three stages (including a new The Roxy stage near the 10th Street entrance) over two days, is arguably its strongest in years. Friday night will feature performances by ATL’s own 2 Chainz and Drivin N’ Cryin as well as the North Mississippi All-Stars, Cake, Journey, Jane’s Addiction and more. Saturday’s lineup is even more stocked with talent, such as Arctic Monkeys, Kendrick Lamar, Queens of the Stone Age, Red Hot Chili Peppers, The Yeah Yeah Yeahs, and Weezer. At just $90 for a weekend pass, it’s a helluva lot cheaper than a road trip to a destination festival.

CONCERT CALENDAR MONDAY JULY 1 529 Nunhex EDDIE’S ATTIC Open Mic FAT MATT’S Pead Boy & the Pork Bellys SMITH’S Songwriters Club STAR BAR Amateur Comedy TABERNACLE Dave Chappelle TUESDAY JULY 2 529 Duende EARL The Hussy FAT MATT’S J.T. Speed SMITH’S Mike Pinto STAR BAR Shut Up & Dance TABERNACLE Mac Miller WEDNESDAY JULY 3 529 The Hotels EDDIE’S ATTIC Hunter Callahan FAT MATT’S The Hollidays MASQUERADE Battle of the Bands SMITH’S Pinups STAR BAR Resurrection Dance Party TABERNACLE Emeli Sande THURSDAY JULY 4 529 Blue Album Tribute FAT MATT’S Chickenshack STAR BAR Fourth of July Matinee FRIDAY JULY 5 529 Takenobu EARL Valient Thorr EDDIE’S ATTIC Delta Moon FAT MATT’S John Sosobee MASQUERADE Yellow Red Sparks SMITH’S Underhill Rose STAR BAR Vegan Coke VERIZON Atlanta Symphony VINYL Rachael Yamagata WILD BILL’S Jason Michael Carroll SATURDAY JULY 6 529 4:20 Comedy Hour EARL The Coathangers EDDIE’S ATTIC Brian Webb FAT MATT’S Tone Prophets CHASTAIN Maxwell MASQUERADE Gored By A Deer SMITH’S All The Locals STAR BAR PBR’BQ No. 2 VINYL Afton Showcase WILD BILL’S Gold N Hearts SUNDAY JULY 7 CENTER STAGE We The Kings EARL Tag Team EDDIE’S ATTIC Scotty Cram FAT MATT’S Fat Back Deluxe MASQUERADE Battle of the Bands SMITH’S Downstairs Sally MONDAY JULY 8 529 La Luz EARL Matt Pond EDDIE’S ATTIC Open Mic FAT MATT’S Pead Boy & the Pork Bellys SMITH’S Songwriters Club STAR BAR Amateur Comedy TUESDAY JULY 9 529 Bestial Mouths EARL Bit Brigade EDDIE’S ATTIC Pokey LaFarge FAT MATT’S J.T. Speed MASQUERADE Cayucas WEDNESDAY JULY 10 529 Volahn CHASTAIN Summer Soul Jam EDDIE’S ATTIC Rebecca Pronsky FAT MATT’S The Hollidays PEACHTREE TAVERN Velcro Pygmies THURSDAY JULY 11 529 Heavy Mojo BUCKHEAD THEATRE The Fritz EARL The Iguanas EDDIE’S ATTIC The Shadowboxers FAT MATT’S Chickenshack

MASQUERADE The Gallery SMITH’S Dale Watson VINYL Afton Showcase FRIDAY JULY 12 529 One Will Burn AARON’S Lil Wayne EARL Blair Crimmins & the Hookers EDDIE’S ATTIC Eric Brace FAT MATT’S Atlanta Boogie GWINNETT ARENA Beyonce LOFT Anberlin MASQUERADE Hamilton SMITH’S The Spring Forwards STAR BAR An English Place VINYL Adrienne Kelley WILD BILL’S Back N Black SATURDAY JULY 13 529 4:20 Comedy Hour CHASTAIN Heads of State EARL Blair Crimmins & the Hookers EDDIE’S ATTIC Jeane Jolly FAT MATT’S Jumpin’ Jukes LOFT The Maine MASQUERADE Plaid Rabbit SMITH’S Migrant Worker TABERNACLE FunkJazz Kafe Arts Festival VARIETY Girls Rock Camp Atl VINYL Green Bracelet WILD BILL’S Quarantine SUNDAY JULY 14 AARON’S Luke Bryan EDDIE’S ATTIC Cowboy Envy FAT MATT’S Fat Back Deluxe MONDAY JULY 15 529 Wumbhi Live EDDIE’S ATTIC Open Mic FAT MATT’S Pead Boy & the Pork Bellys MASQUERADE Behold! The Monolith TUESDAY JULY 16 529 Magoo’s Heros EDDIE’S ATTIC John Zedd FAT MATT’S J.T. Speed MASQUERADE Pacific Dub SMITH’S BJ Barham VARIETY Swing Out Sister VERIZON Phish WEDNESDAY JULY 17 529 Wild Child BUCKHEADTHEATRESummerMemberCelebration EARL Starr*Hustler FAT MATT’S The Hollidays GWINNETT ARENA Carlos Vives SMITH’S Caustic Casanova STAR BAR Suno Deko TABERNACLE Marilyn Manson VERIZON Phish VINYL Alice Smith

EARL Rabbit Rabbit EDDIE’S ATTIC Rebecca Loebe FAT MATT’S Seminole Jackson MASQUERADE Legion X SMITH’S Corey Crowder STAR BAR Jerzfest TABERNACLE O.A.R. VERIZON The Black Crowes VINYL Luella & The Sun

FRIDAY JULY 26 529 Dead In The Dirt BUCKHEAD THEATRE Sumilan EARL Royal Thunder EDDIE’S ATTIC Kurt Thomas Band FAT MATT’S Rumble Fish PEACHTREE TAVERN Honey Island Swamp Band VARIETY Totally Biased Stand Up Tour VERIZON Barenaked Ladies, Ben Folds 5

SUNDAY JULY 21 EARL Georgia Slim & Stovetop Ramblers EDDIE’S ATTIC Erin Thomas FAT MATT’S Fat Back Deluxe TABERNACLE John Butler Trio

SATURDAY JULY 27 529 Dasher EARL Come EDDIE’S ATTIC Five Eight FAT MATT’S Dave Boyd MASQUERADE Algebra Blesset VARIETY Wind & Strings VERIZON Keith Urban WILD BILL’S Skid Row

MONDAY JULY 22 529 Sadistic Ritual EARL Night Moves EDDIE’S ATTIC Open Mic FAT MATT’S Pead Boy & the Pork Bellys SMITH’S Songwriter’s Clib TUESDAY JULY 23 529 Fletcher C. Johnson EDDIE’S ATTIC The Oh Hellos FAT MATT’S J.T. Speed MASQUERADE Lighthouse & the Whaler VARIETY The Psychedelic Furs VINYL Skylar Grey WEDNESDAY JULY 24 529 Mouthbreathers EARL Dean & Dale EDDIE’S ATTIC Nuala Kennedy & John Doyle FAT MATT’S The Hollidays MASQUERADE Aristocrats PEACHTREE TAVERN MissUsed VINYL Bronze Radio Return THURSDAY JULY 25 529 Ante Meridian AARON’S Vans Warped Tour EARL Sonny Vincent EDDIE’S ATTIC Brendan James BUCKHEAD THEATRE Embagga FAT MATT’S Chickenshack STAR BAR Native America VINYL Crash Kings & Nico Vega

SUNDAY JULY 28 EARL OBN III’s EDDIE’S ATTIC Swear & Shake FAT MATT’S Fat Back Deluxe VINYL Nobody’s Darlings & All The Locals MONDAY JULY 29 529 Shepherds EARL Paper Bird EDDIE’S ATTIC Kat Edmonson FAT MATT’S Pead Boy & the Pork Bellys TUESDAY JULY 30 AARON’S Rockstar Energy Mayhem Festival EDDIE’S ATTIC Faye Webster FAT MATT’S J.T. Speed MASQUERADE Summer Slaughter Tour TABERNACLE Trampled By Turtles WEDNESDAY JULY 31 529 Nobra Noma AARON’S Train EARL Ben Trickey EDDIE’S ATTIC Stevens Layne FAT MATT’S The Hollidays MASQUERADE Molotov SMITH’S Plain White T’s PEACHTREE TAVERN Culture Sol

GWINNETT ARENA presents Beyonce (July 12)

THURSDAY JULY 18 529 Maserati EARL The Law Band EDDIE’S ATTIC Scott Miller Band FAT MATT’S Chickenshack SMITH’S People’s Blues of Richmond STAR BAR Team Luis Partyversary VARIETY Hail the King FRIDAY JULY 19 529 U.S. Christmas CHASTAIN Anita Baker EARL inc.

EDDIE’S ATTIC Hannah Thomas FAT MATT’S Lady T. & The Totals MASQUERADE Texas Hippie Coalition SMITH’S Eddie & the Public Speakers STAR BAR Jerzfest VARIETY Living Colour VERIZON Robert Plant WILD BILL’S NFC Fight Night SATURDAY JULY 20 529 The Left Field Experiment AARON’S 311 CHASTAIN Yacht Rock Revival insiteatlanta.com • July 2013 • PG 19

Road Warriors

This Month’s Hottest Shows

BY SACHA DZUBA

JULY 9 –LEÆTHER STRIP: 25TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR

The Shelter Leæther Strip descends like a vulture from the fog, bringing their dark visions of electroindustrial music to the unsuspecting Atlanta populace. The main project of Danish musician Claus Larsen, Leæther Strip has been a dance floor mainstay for electro-industrial, goth, and fetish clubs around the world.

Known for his distorted vocal style, punishing rhythmns, and aggressive electro-industrial style; Leæther Strip will certainly please fans of early NIN, Skinny Puppy, and Front 242.

This tour marks one of only 7 exclusive U.S. tour dates, making this the only southeast performance for electro-industrial legends, Leæther Strip! Grab your jackboots, get those eyelids rimmed with kohl and hit the dance floor; don’t miss this unique opportunity to see Leæther Strip live!

JULY 12 – ANBERLIN ACOUSTIC TOUR

The Loft Anberlin presents an alternative pop/rock sound that brings to mind an Emo version of Third Eye Blind. Their latest album release is Vital, more experimental and enhanced by washes of synthesizers and female backing vocals. There are hints of New Wave and hardcore, and while it is certainly electro influenced, it still maintains their sense of identity.

Their high energy performances are punctuated by crazy stage antics and polished vocals from Stephen Christian. Reworking many of their songs, slowing them down, breathing

new life into them; this performance will be a stripped down acoustic set, presenting a far different version of what Anberlin does.

A unique performance from Anberlin, absolutely unmissable.

JULY 12 – BEYONCÉ

Gwinnett Center Arena A massive mind-blowing spectacle of a show from the ubiquitous Mrs. Knowles-Carter.

This tour features very regal themes; including 18th century french royal couture with bling revisions, giant white video screens, live dancers interacting with video, pyrotechnics including strobes, flames, dry ice, sparks, and even glitter cannons. Beyoncé’s performance is backed by an 11-piece all-female band, and a mostly female assembly of dancers. Delivering genuine warmth and punctuated by a powerhouse of a voice, Beyoncé struts and moves with shades of Tina Turner and delivers a kind of genuine warmth that may be unexpected from a performer of her cultural stature; keeping her audiences thoroughly enchanted. Expect to hear blockbuster hits “Single Ladies”, “Crazy in Love”, and “Survivor” as well as moving ballads like “If I Were A Boy”. Bold, bright, filled with life and energy, and a dizzying array of costume changes and pyrotechnics, this Beyoncé tour really packs a punch! Who runs the world…Beyoncé?!

JULY 20 – THE BLACK CROWES & TEDESCHI TRUCKS BAND

Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre The Black Crowes are back and this is your first opportunity to hear these next-genera-

tion hippies since the end of their two-year hiatus. There are sure to be some extended jams as well as performances of their radio friendly early hits such as “Thorn in my Pride” “Hard to Handle” or “She Talks to Angels” and “Jealous Again”. If you’ve never heard them, the Crowes are Allman Bros./Skynyrd meets roots reggae jam band.

The Tedeschi Trucks band is an uplifting 11-piece ensemble led by the husband-wife team of Derek Truck and Susan Tedeschi.

Delivering hearty rock and blues punctuated by Trucks soaring guitar and Tedeschi’s husky almost Bonnie Raitt-style vocals.

Keep an eye out for their latest upcoming release, Made Up Mind. Two great bands that complement each other’s styles, a great night of rough ‘n’ ready hard rock and down home blues!

JULY 23 – THE PSYCHEDELIC FURS

The Variety Playhouse The Psychedelic Furs return to the Variety Playhouse for an evening of 80’s reflection.

You’re sure to know the song “Pretty in Pink”, which inspired and was featured in the wellknown John Hughes movie of the same name.

Richard Butler’s raspy nicotine stained voice is dramatic and emotional, characterizing his lyrical stories of eccentrics, abusers, and romance. Expect to hear some new songs as well as some obscurities. You’re sure to recognize other songs like “Love My Way”, “Heaven”, “The Ghost in You”, and “Heartbreak Beat”; a series of 80’s staples from almost any 80’s night where you’ve grooved and gotten down on the dance floor.

JULY 24 – HALESTORM

The Masquerade Prepare yourself for the Halestorm! The Hale siblings, drummer Arejay and vocalist/guitarist “Lzzy” Hale, bassist Josh Smith and guitarist Joe Hottinger have a Best Hard Rock/Metal Performance Grammy under their belts and are ready to blow your face away with their

WE GOT NEXT GENTLEMAN JESSE

Halestorm

blend of hard rock and metal. These non-stop touring demons have performed as many as 250 shows a year. Their most recent album The Strange Case Of… features a wide range of material, anthemic cuts, pop ballads, and edgy metal tracks. Listen out for Lzzy’s four octave vocal range as she performs the song “Break In” and Arejay’s inevitably intense drum solos, as well as the grammy winning “Love Bites (So Do I)”!

JULY 30 – ROCKSTAR ENERGY DRINK MAYHEM FEST

Lakewood Amphitheatre Rockstar Energy Drink Mayhem Festival, the world’s biggest hard & heavy music touring festival, is now in its electrifying sixth-year and is boasting four performing stages, for the first time ever! Headliners include rock icon and filmmaker Rob Zombie; Atlanta metal gods, Mastodon; Viking metal horde, Amon Amarth; and the virtuosic guitars of Children of Bodom; just to name a few. Fans will be spoiled for choices, as they can play video games, peruse numerous vendors, attend autograph sessions, participate in contests, and of course sample plenty of ice cold Rockstar drinks. A powerful concert event full of energy and energy drinks, the Rockstar Mayhem Festival will feature a variety of activities and contests, along with an awesome onslaught of heavy music. Bring those metal horns and raise ‘em high!

Artists on the verge of making it big

Latest Project: Leaving Atlanta (Douchemaster Records) For Fans of: British Invasion pop, Nuggets-era garage-rock, Black Lips Why You Should Care: Because “Gentleman” Jesse Smith is one of the finest songwriters in the ATL’s alt-rock

BY JOHN B. MOORE

U

NLESS YOU’RE AMONG THE DENIZENS OF Atlanta’s alt-rock underground, chances are you’re not familiar with Gentleman Jesse just yet. But if you’re a fan of the British Invasion or ‘70s power-pop and have a craving for uptempo songs that worm their way into your subconscious, you should be.

Fronted by former Carbonas bassist Jesse Smith, the band gained attention early on after being selected as the opening act for fellow ATL scenesters the Black Lips, and their selftitled 2008 debut earned an 8.1 rating from the indie-rock tastemakers at Pitchfork.com.

Now, Smith is celebrating the success of his eagerlyawaited sophomore LP, Leaving Atlanta. We recently sat down for an exclusive one-on-one with the head Gentleman himself.

underground, name-checking un-hip icons like the Boss and Credence Clearwater Revival while crafting accessibly polished garage-rock gems.

Do you remember when you first started getting seriously interested in music?

It’s one of those things that was always there. My dad was a drummer in a band in the ‘70s, and I remember being two or three and singing the words to Yes’ “Roundabout” in the bathtub. I lived in Freemont, California, and I just always knew rock n’ roll was cool.

I’ve heard you’re seriously into collecting vinyl. What’s your record collection like?

It’s frightening! I worry about the floors in my house caving in. It started around 1994 when, if you wanted rare songs by punk bands, you had to buy 45s to get the B-sides on it. It turned into hobby. By the time I was 18, I was going to record conventions and collecting.

Your music is obviously influenced by retro rock sounds.

What modern acts do you admire?

There are a ton of bands from Atlanta that I think are great, from bigger ones like the Black Lips and Deerhunter to my friends’ bands, like GG King and Predator. We might have put ourselves on the fringe of our subculture due to our sound, being that I’m not afraid to get down with some Tom Petty. Most of the bands we play with are more edgy, but I have an appreciation of The Beatles and Bruce Springsteen and I’m not afraid to dabble in that. I think I could churn out a pop record…

PG 20 • July 2013 • insiteatlanta.com

You debut album got amazing press, but it was four years after it came out before you released Leaving Atlanta.

What took so long?

We put out a couple of singles over that time. We recorded 20 songs in my basement for that session and then we went on the road for three months, which was exhausting.

Basically, my drummer does all the mixing and he moved to New York City, so I’m not there to crack a whip on him anymore. But after months of harassing him via text message to finish the damn record, we finally had a 13-song album out.

How does the new material compare, in your eyes, to the debut album?

It’s much better. I think it’s stronger material, and there’s less filler. There’s a Hammond organ player we added to the record, just to give it a little more of a soulful feel. There are still some of those British Invasion moments, but I’m going for a more American sound. My heroes are American acts like Bobby Fuller, Credence Clearwater Revival and Bruce Springsteen, so I wanted to draw from that more. The lyrics are a little bit more thought-out on this record. I think there’s more heart to it.

What goals do you have for the band’s future?

The music is extremely important to me and always will be, so I’ll probably make it and play it for the rest of my life. But I like just putting it out there and seeing if it floats. I haven’t had to put that much work into it, except that I record everything myself. I’m 32 years old– I’m too old to be out busting my ass on the road for 10 months out of the year. But I’m in a very lucky position in that I can put records out, go on tour, and people will pay attention and listen.

The Frederick Brown Jr. Amphitheater

COMEDY

SUMMER CONCERT SERIES!

LAUGH AT MY PAIN

Presented By

SPOTLIGHT CONCERT

Comedian Kevin Hart is on Such a Hot Streak Right Now That it Hurts

BY DEMARCO WILLIAMS

2013

S

OME PEOPLE CALL IT THE ZONE. It’s that inexplicable period of time when you simply hit a stride. You get every green light. You nail the job interview. You say just the right thing to the cutie at Home Depot. Nothing you do can go wrong. Most of us experience it in short spurts. Only a few truly know what it feels like for an extended amount of time. Kevin Hart does. Since 2010, the man has done absolutely no wrong. The Philly native has starred in boxoffice smashes (Think Like a Man), shined on TV sitcoms (Modern Family, Real Husbands of Hollywood) and has hosted Saturday Night Live. But his latest move is a bold one. On July 3, he’s releasing the stand-up comedy Kevin Hart: Let Me Explain. If you haven’t noticed, most specials of this kind go to HBO, not your local theater. But when we talked to the 33-year-old comedian about the movie, he wasn’t the least bit worried. When you’re in The Zone, you chuckle at trepidation.

How does it feel to finally drop Let Me Explain on the masses?

Oh, man, I’m hyped. I’m hyped as hell. This is huge, really huge. Now I’m definitively in position to do some amazing things, especially with this theatrical release. This is kind of Eddie Murphy-ish, you know, thinking about the actual things that are going on. This (a highly promoted comedy special) hasn’t happened since like Raw where there has been this much hype for a standup film coming out theatrically. So, the goal is to do some crazy numbers and, you know, have people see it.

You’re a big basketball fan, right?

Yes, sir.

LeBron James cemented his legacy as the best player on the planet with his NBA Finals performance. Who would you say is No. 1 in the comedy game right now?

Um, you know what, man? I mean, that is not for me to say. I think fans and reporters and bloggers, that’s for you guys to say. I’m not a person who stands on top and beat my chest. I just put the hard work in and I think with hard work comes great rewards. And right now, I’m seeing some really fantastic rewards from my hard work. This product is another example of my hard work and what I have done and what I’m doing. I just think I continue to get better. I continue to grow, and it is only going to get better from this point on, so, you know, I don’t focus on saying I’m the best or trying to be the best. I feel I am doing the best that I can for me. And, hopefully, my fan base is pleased.

What has been the best part of this journey from Philly to Hollywood?

Um, I can’t pick just one, you know. You’re looking at 15 years of being in business and having fun doing what I love to do. I would say just the grind, the grind of getting to where I am now and understanding how hard it was to get to where I am, but also appreciate it.

Was there ever a time where you were like, you know, I’m about to be done with this, and try something else?

For me? No, no. Never.

Let’s go back to the release of Let Me Explain one more time. For the people who only know you from your SNL appearance, explain why they should pay the $10 or $15 to check out

G 201 McIntosh Trail Peachtree City, GA 30269

Yesterday I passed a billboard for the BET awards and it said “Hosted by Chris Tucker.”

Kind of paralleling into that, Dave Chappelle is also on tour. With this comedy game, is this something like riding bike, where if you have it you have it, no matter how long you’re away from the stage? Can these guys just pop back onto the scene like they hope to do?

I think so. I mean, I think Dave Chappelle is beyond polished. I’ve seen him perform a couple of times this year and he has been seamless and funny. And also I think they are in demand. People want to see him. The same thing with Tucker. He is a guy who is funny and has had great success in the entertainment business. The one thing about stand-up comedy is that it is something that you can always go back to. So, maybe he will go back and things will pick up, but I’m a fan of both and would be happy if they returned.

July 13

and Special Guest

The Ultimate Tribute

July 20

For more concert information visit us on twitter, Facebook G

this movie.

Um, I think just because of growth. From [stand-up shows] I’m a Grown Little Man to Seriously Funny to Laugh at My Pain, to now, it’s consistently gotten better, and I think this is going to be my best work to date. It’s a game changer, you know? I think people will walk away from it looking at the comedy game from a different aspect?

SPOTLIGHT CONCERT

July 12

2010 American Idol Winner, Lee DeWyze

August 10

Where the Action Is Tour

August 23

Grand Funk Railroad ....and Spin Doctors

SPOTLIGHT CONCERT

CALL FOR TICKETS 770.631.0630

September 13 Hotel California The Original Eagles Tribute Band

www.amphitheater.org

Don’t you have a birthday coming up in a couple of days?

July 6.

Any huge plans?

Uh, as of yet, no. I mean my biggest plan is promoting this dang movie and getting that reward [of its release]. That is the only gift that I want—and for everybody to see my movie.

You have a couple of projects that are on the horizon: Grudge Match and Think Like a Man 2.

Can you tell how they’re progressing?

Grudge Match is done. They actually just screened that and I heard it tested very well.

Think Like a Man 2 is still being shot. It’s been shot entirely in Vegas and that is going well. The pressure is on because we did such a good job with part 1, I think that we have definitely stepped up to our expectations and we are getting a lot of great footage. I think you’re going to love it.

It seems like you are somebody who is relishing these kinds of pressure-packed moments...

Hey, man, I’m all about making history. I’m all about being ground breaking. The more you put yourself in position to win, the more you will win.

FRIDAY, JULY 12, 2013 AARON'S AMPHITHEATRE AT LAKEWOOD CHARGE BY PHONE: 800-745-3000. ALL DATES, ACTS AND TICKET PRICES SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE. TICKET PRICES SUBJECT TO APPLICABLE FEES.

insiteatlanta.com • July 2013 • PG 21

OUTDOOR VENUES Aaron's Amphitheatre at Lakewood

2002 Lakewood Way 404.443.5000 livenation.com Atlanta's largest dedicated concert venue in the Southeast. Superior sound reproduction, advanced lighting capabilities and clear, unrestricted sightlines make Aaron’s Amphitheatre the favorite summer concert site for the avid music fan. Some of their hotly anticipated upcoming shows include: Lil’ Wayne (July 12); 311 (July 20); Vans Warped Tour (July 25) and Rockstar Energy Mayhem Festival (July 30).

Chastain Park

4469 Stella Dr. NW. 404.733.5012 deltaclassicchastain.com Chastain Amphitheatre is one of the great outdoor concert venues in the country. It is an ideal setting to combine dining al fresco with a diverse range of musical talent.

Among the top performances for the 2013: Maxwell (July 6); Anita Baker (July 19); Gipsy Kings (Aug 9) & Kansas (Aug 14).

Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre

Encore Park in Alpharetta 404.249.6400 vzwamp.com Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre has quickly become the entertainment destination for music lovers across the region. Set on 45 acres of beautifully-landscaped wooded land in Alpharetta, the 12,000-seat Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre at Encore Park provides a unique setting. 2013 summer lineup includes: Phish (July 16); Robert Plant (July 19); Keth Urban (July 27) & STS9 (Aug 24).

Frederick Brown Amphitheatre

201 McIntosh Trail Peachtree City 770.631.0630 amphitheater.org Located in Peachtree City, "The Fred" offers a unique and intimate concert experience.

It has established itself as one of the leading outdoor entertainment venues in the metro area. Anticipated shows this summer include: The Fab Four (July 12); Grand Funk Railroad (Aug 10) & Huey Lewis and the News (Aug 23).

Mable House Barnes Amphitheatre

5239 Floyd Rd, Mableton 770.819.7765 mablehouse.org Located in south Cobb County, Mable House Amphitheatre seats 2,400 people for everything from country to rock to plays to symphony orchestra performances. This year they are offering a free summer of Candlelite Concerts that start at 8pm.

Check website for details.

INDOOR VENUES Philips Arena

100 Centennial Park 404.584.7825 philipsarena.com Home to the Hawks and Atlanta Dream, Atlanta's largest indoor entertainment venue also showcases some great concerts.

Highly anticipated concerts this year include: Justin Bieber (Aug 10) and Bruno Mars (Aug 22).

The Fox Theatre

660 Peachtree St. 404.817.8700 foxtheatre.org PG 22 • July 2013 • insiteatlanta.com

Smith's Olde Bar

The city's oldest and most revered venue is best known for its theatrical performances.

However they do house musical acts from time to time and many say it is among the best concert atmospheres they have experienced. Upcoming concerts include: Grease Sing-a-long (July 27); Mindless Behavior (July 20) and Sarah Brightman (Oct 9).

1578 Piedmont Ave 404.875.1522 smithsoldebar.com Expect to see the best national, regional, and upcoming acts while enjoying the laidback, intimate atmosphere. Check out Underhill Rose (July 5); Downstairs Sally (July 7) and Dale Watson (July 11).

Cobb Energy Center

The Peachtree Tavern

2800 Cobb Galleria Pkwy 770.916.2800 cobbenergycentre.com First major performing arts facility built in metro Atlanta in four decades. Anticipated summer shows include: Village People (July 12); The National (Sept 9) & Engelbert Humperdinck (Sept 15).

The Arena at Gwinnett

6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy. 770.813.7600 gwinnettcenter.com As part of the 80 acre Gwinnett Center campus, The Arena is a state of the art 13,000 seat facility. It boasts widened seats, a high-end sound system along with acoustical enhancements and versatile lighting. Upcoming concerts include: Beyonce (July 12); Carlos Vives (July 17) & American Idol Live (July 26).

Masquerade

695 North Ave. NE 404.577.8178 masq.com Masquerade offers three rooms for indoor concerts along with outdoor concerts in their Music Park. Featured shows include: The Almost (July 3); The Aristocrats (Julu 24) and Halestorm (July 24).

The Tabernacle

152 Luckie Street 404.659.9022 livenation.com This turn of the century church turned concert venue attracts some of the biggest national acts. Check out O.A.R (July 20); Ludacris (Aug 1); The Cult (Aug 17); and Rancid (Sept 9).

Center Stage

3179 Peachtree Rd. 404.842.1700 peachtreetavern.com The Peachtree Tavern is known for their awesome tribute bands and up and coming national acts. This month check out: MissUsed (July 24); Culture Sol (July 31) & Weston Burt (Aug 2).

Wild Bill's

2075 Market St. 678-473-1000 wildbillsatlanta.com Duluth complex is one of the largest country-music dance club and concert halls in the country. Upcoming shows include: Jason Michael Carroll (July 5); Back N Black (July 12) & Skid Row (July 27).

Eddie's Attic

Decatur Square. 404.377.4976 eddiesattic.com Decatur's most prominent music venue features some of the best acoustical music in the city. Made famous by the frequent appearances by the Indigo Girls, they still offer some great acts. Upcoming performers: Delta Moon (July 5); Barry Waldrep (July 13) & Hannah Thomas (July 19).

Fat Matt's Rib Shack

1811 Piedmont Rd. 404.607.1622 fatmatts.com You like ribs? You like the blues? You can get both seven nights a week. Live music begins at 8pm and come often, because you never know what blues legend is going to stop bye. Coming up in July is Atlanta Boogie (July 12); Jumpin’ Jukes (July 13) and Seminole Jackson (July 20).

Star Bar

1374 W. Peachtree St. 404.885.1365 centerstage-atlanta.com This multi-level music complex houses Center Stage, The Loft and Vinyl. Center Stage is the largest of the three and books national acts including: Adam Ant (Aug 6); The Whisky Gentry (Aug 17) and Scott Weiland (Aug 21).

437 Moreland Ave. 404.681.9018 starbaratl.com This Little Five Points music cathedral keeps packing them in. The Elvis Shrine is still alive and well. Upcoming July shows include: Vegan Coke (July 5); An English Place (July 12) and Jerzfest (July 19).

Variety Playhouse

Tin Roof

1099 Euclid Ave. L5pts 404.521.1786 variety-playhouse.com This is Little Five Points' largest music venue, but it can also be one of its most intimate. The Variety has great acoustics and sound combined with an eclectic mix of artists. Shows this summer include: Living Colour (July 19); The Psychedelic Furs (July 23) and Elvis Royale (Aug 10).

2591 Briarcliff Road 404.329.4700 tinroofcantina.com This popular Tex-Mex Cantina also boasts a indoor stage and huge outdoor patio.

They feature live music nightly and are open late, 'till 4am. Popular regular acts include: Michael Mann, Fransico Vidal and Mike Veal.

The Earl

1058 Howell Mill Rd. 404.874.8745 northsidetavern.com Legendary blues and barbecue keeps them coming to the Westside. Regular acts include: Uncle Sugar; Nathan Nelson; Mudcat; and The Breeze Kings.

488 Flat Shoals Ave. 404.522.3950 badearl.com An East Atlanta institution for great live music. Anything and everything can be heard at The Earl and the crowd varies with the bands. National acts and the best of the emerging Atlanta music scene grace the stage nightly to packed crowds. In July catch: The Coathangers (July 6); Bit Brigade (July 9) and Blair Crimmins and the Hookers (July 12 & 13).

Northside Tavern

529

529 Flat Shoals Ave 404.228.6769 529atl.com This popular East Atlanta venue has been attracting a large following. Highlighted

shows in July include: One Will Burn (July 12); U.S. Christmas (July 19) & Dead in the Dirt (July 26).

The Georgia 120 Tavern

1440 Roswell Rd. 770.509.3320 120tavern.com Formerly operating as Sidelines, sports have given way to live music. Upcoming shows include: Canaan Smith (July 11); The Six Shot Revival (July 12) & Bryan White (July 19).

Buckhead Theatre

3110 Roswell Rd. 404.843.2825 thebuckheadtheatre.com Embracing the deep musical heritage of Georgia and the Southeast, The Buckhead Theatre has been the site of sold-out shows of every musical genre, rock, country, hip hop alternative, and more. Upcoming shows include: The Fritz (July 11); CBDB (Aug 8) and Justin Hayward (Aug 17).

The Strand

3110 Roswell Rd. 770.293.0080 thebuckheadtheatre.com Located on Marietta Square, The Strand served as a major motion picture house in 1935. Over the years it has undergone many transformations and reopened in 2009. The Sock Hops play July 20 and Departure the Journey Tribute Band plays August 10.

Five Spot

1123 Euclid Ave. 404.223.1100 fivespot-atl.com The Five Spot is Atlanta’s most inclusive music and arts venue and features acoustic acts every Monday, a diverse Musician's Jam on Tuesdays, monthly Bluegrass Jam’s and many touring and national acts Wednesday through Sunday.

10 High

816 N. Highland Avenue 404.873.3607 darkhorseatlanta.com The 10 High is located directly below the Dark Horse Tavern in the heart of the Virginia Highlands neighborhood. The venue is a favorite spot for local music lovers and bands as well. Friday, Saturday and Tuesday nights feature live band karaoke with Metalsome Inc.

Blind Willie’s

828 North Highland Ave. 404.873.25.83 blindwilliesblues.com Iconic blues joint in Virginia Highland.

Burnt Bacon play July 12 and 13, Bob Margolin plays July 19.

Iris

2715 Buford Hwy. 770.240.6377 irispromotion.eventbrite.com Also known as Rush Lounge, Iris is Atlanta’s biggest EDM showcase. Upcoming shows include: AK 1200 Returns (July 6); Mighty High Coup & Hypntk (July 13) and Terravita & Mantis (July 20).

QUAD

714 Spring St. 404.870.0040 quadatlanta.com QUAD is Atlanta's largest club dedicated exclusively to electronic dance music. With 18,000 sq ft, multiple stages, dance areas and bars, they have it all for EDM fans.

Upcoming shows include: ATL Bass Wars (July 19) and Kid Cedek (July 20).

MUSIC

THE LEGEND OF SUPER CHIKAN

Everything You Need to Know About Morgan Freeman’s Favorite Blues Man

BY BRET LOVE

S

How did you get your nickname?

I had chores ever since I could walk. My job was to take care of the chickens, so they called me “Chicken Boy.” When I grew up and got a job driving a taxicab, they called me “Fast Red” because I had a red car. That became my CB handle, but one day my dispatcher called me “Super Chicken.” I didn’t answer, so she called my car number.

She said, “Don’t you know your name?” I said, “Yeah, but it ain’t Super Chicken!” She said, “Well, it is now!” One of the old ladies from the home place came into town, and she knew me as “Chicken.” She said, “Tell Chicken to come pick me up.” There was another lady that I’d been hauling around who said, “Well, he’s a super fast Chicken: He’ll come get ya quick!” Super Chicken stuck because it was funny to them, but I didn’t like it at first. What kind of name is that for a cab driver?

UPER CHIKAN IS NOT YET world famous, but he deserves to be. With his killer Delta Blues riffs, a knack for storytelling, and a mouth full of gold teeth offset by a rainbow assortment of diamonds, he’s an incredible character just waiting to become a talk show celebrity.

Raised in and around Clarksdale, Mississippi, the artist formerly known as James Johnson grew up the nephew of Delta Blues legend Big Jack Johnson. He spent a lot of time with his grandfather, a high-level Mason who deputized guys like John Lee Hooker, Muddy Waters, and Sonny Boy Williamson to help poor blacks escape the Delta via the Underground Railroad. He tells incredible stories of informal jams on his granddad’s front porch that would give any serious Blues fan chills.

Chikan first made a name for himself by building homemade guitars out of scrap But it’s a GREAT name for a blues man! items such as gas cans, ceiling fan motors, What was your childhood like in the Delta? plastic toolboxes and rifles, then adorning I am the Blues. One day I’m out in the them with vivid paintings field on a John Deere and colorful gems. But I’M ONE OF THE LAST. I’M 62 tractor, and the next he eventually became YEARS OLD, AND I REMEMBER day I’m on a jet going equally well known for London to play with playing the hell out of SITTING ON THE PORCH WITH to a movie star [Steven any stringed instrument MY GRANDPA AND A BUNCH Seagal]. The next day, he got his hands on, first I’m back home on that in Uncle Jack’s band The OF MUSICIANS, LISTENING TO John Deere tractor.

Jelly Roll Kings, and then THEM PLAY. THE MUSIC WAS That’s the Blues! Born later as a solo artist. in the mud, grew up PART OF THEIR SOUL. Now, at age 62, Super in the mud, get it Chikan is one of the last between your toes and in your blood as well. truly great Delta Blues musicians, keeping As a kid, I went from farm to farm, picking alive a rich African-American musical cotton. We lived on one farm that had cattle. tradition that has influenced bands ranging So if I wasn’t driving a tractor, I was riding a from the Rolling Stones and Led Zeppelin to horse, herding and raising cattle. the White Stripes and Black Keys. He’s the favorite of Morgan Freeman, who moved I know Big Jack Johnson is your uncle. How to Clarksdale and opened the Ground Zero did you get started playing music?

Blues Club, a modern-day juke joint where I started out on a diddley bow, one of the Chikan performs regularly. But, despite first Blues instruments, playing one string winning the Blues Music Award for Best and watching everybody else. Back in my Traditional Album in 2010, the man still day, young people had respect for old people. doesn’t have a record deal.

You couldn’t hang around them. So Big Jack During my recent visit to the birthplace of was an inspiration, but he was #1 and he the Blues, I was honored to have a chance wanted to stay #1. I was a bassist for The Jelly to chat with this local legend about growing Roll Kings for a while, but I had too much up in the Mississippi Delta, learning in the energy for him. He said, “I’m the king up shadow of his famous uncle, his experiences here. If there’s any jumping going on, I’ll do in Africa and Norway, and what makes the it. You just stand over there and play bass!”

Delta Blues so special.

How did you get into making your own

instruments?

When I started playing the Blues, I had a white BC Rich Guitar. Everybody called it a rock guitar, but it played the Blues just fine.

I got offstage one night and there was a lady who was mad. She said, “That rock guitar is out of style. You need a new guitar!” Being poor, I couldn’t buy one, so I made me one out of a military gas can. We called it the Chick-can-tar. When I started playing it, people were fascinated by it. When Big Jack saw it, he said, “If you don’t have two, you better go make one, because I’m going to take that one you got!” I said I would make him one. People kept buying ‘em, so I just kept making them.

Do you have a favorite?

It’s the one I made from a ceiling fan motor, which I call a Gui-Jo. I made a diddley bow from a ceiling fan with a [broomstick], and we call it a Bow-Jo. The strings are an inch off the neck, so you can’t chord it like a regular guitar. You’ve got to slide it, or you could pluck on it like a percussion instrument. The diddley-bow is derived from the African kora. My grandfather described it to me before he died, and he called it an African Slap Bow. A guy wrote something up in the newspaper about the one I made, and somehow the news got to Africa. I got a letter saying, “Anybody who’s got an instrument called an African Slap Bow needs to bring it to Africa.” So I took the African Slap Bow and a couple of Chick-can-tars over to Senegal. They were fascinated. I played with several musicians in Africa, and I wound up leaving all the instruments there for them. Now I sell some instruments at Cat Head Records in Clarksdale, some I sell right out of the shop, and I make them special for people.

What, in your eyes, makes the Delta Blues unique?

Originality. The Blues gained popularity when it changed to the Chicago style, but Delta Blues is more original. Most of the original Delta Blues musicians are dying out. I’m one of the last. I’m 62 years old, and I remember sitting on the porch with my grandpa and a bunch of musicians, listening to them play. The music was part of their soul. They played it from their heart, and they didn’t care about being famous. Back then music didn’t have rules. You just played what you felt.

How did you feel about the state of Blues music today?

They’re sharecropping the Blues, just like they did in the cotton fields. They worked you all day in the cotton fields, made you pay for the seed and tools, and you’d still come out in the hole at the end of the year. It’s the same thing in the music business. The cost of everything you do as a musician comes out of what you make.

If you fail to be a sharecropper, then they have no use for you.

You recorded your 2009 album, Chikadelic, in Norway with Norwegian musicians. Europeans seem to appreciate Blues more than Americans. What’s the reception like for your music there?

It’s great! People here in the States didn’t want to hear the Blues because it was about all the pressure of life. Since Europeans weren’t going through that, it was something new and refreshing to them. What we were singing about was what we were going through every day, and [some people] didn’t want to be reminded of it because it made them sad and mad. Years ago they turned their backs on it and didn’t want anything to do with it. Now, it’s starting to gain a little more attention.

Did Morgan Freeman coming to Clarksdale and opening Ground Zero elevate your career?

Yeah! He lives right down the road from here. I was playing in this club called 41/61 Crossroads, and Morgan and [business partner] Bill Luckett would come in there and have such a good time. One night Bill had to go home early and he told me, “Take care of him while I’m gone.” So I took care of Morgan, and we’ve been friends ever since. One day in 2010, he asked me when was the last time I did a new record, and I said I hadn’t done one in a while. He said to go around to [Squirrel Nut Zippers] Jimbo Mathus’ Delta Recording Studio and record a new album, and tell him I sent you. So I went, we made a record, and Morgan produced it for the Knockdown South record label. It’s called Chikan Supe.

Morgan being around and having a club and restaurant has been a great help for all of the local Blues musicians. He’s a great guy. insiteatlanta.com • July 2013 • PG 23

MUSIC

FLYING HIGH

The Black Crowes are Back on the Road Again

BY LEE VALENTINE SMITH

P

OPULAR ATLANTA-BRED BLUES rockers The Black Crowes have returned from a two-year hiatus, and the rockin’ jammers are back on the road.

Sharing a tour with the Tedeschi Trucks Band, the co-headlining bill, featuring special guests The London Souls, begins this month in Nashville and ends in mid-August.

To many, the Crowes need no introduction; they’ve sold over 35 million albums and are widely known as one of rock’s best and often most profitable live attractions. Currently on their “Lay Down With Number 13” tour, the band featuring Chris Robinson (lead vocals, guitar), Rich Robinson (guitar, vocals), Steve Gorman (drums), Sven Pipien (bass), Adam MacDougall (keyboards) and newest member Jackie Greene (guitar, vocals) recently released Wiser For Time, a four-LP set from a series of 2010 performances in New York. Chris Robinson recently spoke with the press during a rare day off the road.

The one constant of the Black Crowes has been the interplay of you and your brother Rich. How has the relationship changed over the years -- both on-stage and off?

I suppose the dynamic would be like anything else with family. On one level yes, you have an intimacy, especially when singing, you know. The one thing, with my brother at least, singing together even

though we’re not, like, super-properharmony singers, but there is something about the genetics of close harmony singing that really adds to the depth of what you’re putting across. Other than that, like anything else, that would be the positive end of the spectrum. The other end of the spectrum is drama and misery. You know what I mean? But that’s just the way families work, you know.

How does that change the overall band -and family -- dynamic?

Yeah, well I suppose it’s like life -- in general anyway. You get older, you hopefully deal with things in a more pragmatic way, as opposed to just emotional knee-jerk reactions on everything. But I think the end result is obviously something that’s very unique and very special when you get to play with people that are that integral in your life.

How did this new tour happen with Susan Tedeschi and Derek Trucks?

It’s a no brainer, you know, like, “Let’s go out with one of the deepest, funkiest, soulful bands out there.” And what it represents is to be in on something that’s the earthiest tour with its head in the most celestial places. That’s always going to be interesting for us and that’s always, I think, going to be interesting for people who are more demanding about their concert experience.

More than just, “We went and we took

… h t n o M t x e Coming N ! e u s Is l o o h c S o T he Back t • Ad vert ise in At lanta’s Entertainm ent Pap er an d Reac h 120,000 Active Read er s!

• Deadline to Reserve Space: Mond ay , July 29 Street Date: Fr ida y, August 2 • Contact Steve to Ad vert ise

(404) 256-4328

• Celebratin g 21 Years in Publish ing!

w w w. in siteatlanta.co m Find us on

PG 24 • July 2013 • insiteatlanta.com

some pictures on our iPhone and bought a T-shirt,” or whatever.

Now that the Crowes’ hiatus is over, will there be new music? Maybe a new album at some point?

Well, we’re in a good place, so we’re ahead of the game probably more so than we would’ve imagined six months ago.

But you know what’s kind of funny as well is like, we’ve been staying around a kind of - a presentation that we’ve been playing a lot of songs but we’ve been playing a lot of songs that we feel just the presentation’s powerful. And with Jackie joining the band and everything, I think that was kind of our focus, as opposed to maybe meandering around and trying to find something in a way that we really like into something concrete, something that’s very rock and roll based and very powerful in the presentation. So inevitably, hopefully, and I don’t see anything that would derail that that we would. The only real part of if that’s an enigma is we don’t have any plans past December. It’s just typical Black Crowes’ world. So yes, that would ultimately be the goal.

a thing if we’re not making records every year? If we’re not in that kind of system anymore? We haven’t been for many years -- and that system is in nonexistence for people with passion and imagination and sincerity, anyway. But how do we make it work for everyone? I kind of see the future of the Black Crowes as this: we do it when we feel like doing it. And it’s something that I don’t think that, maybe in your youth and especially in the ‘90s, when you’re selling millions and millions and millions of records and you’re responsible for all this income and intrigue to these labels and corporations and stuff, that’ll really put a wrench in the works. And on some levels, you become a slave to that kind of system or routine.

Whether you know it or not, you know?

Our perception is much different - and the business is much different. And success is much different -- in terms of when you look around and see what it means.

So what does it mean to you, personally?

Well, to be honest I think the main thing that’s appealing about the Black Crowes is the relationship with the audience. For me, anyway. And just how strong a bond that is and people respond to it and how they react to it.

Are you writing new material at the moment, just in case?

No, not really. We’re still just kind of How will the show bond with the band and scratching our heads wondering why fans on this tour? everyone’s getting along so well. Like, you Well, we will be playing a kind of take it as it goes and shorter set, and then you run stay in the moment more as into a problem of, “We can’t opposed to looking behind or spend two hours playing looking ahead too much. And the dusty artifacts from I think not only will those our catalog,” you know? I moments be more responsive mean, some people would be to positivity but that will When: interested in that. inevitably show you when and SATURDAY JULY 20 where and how it’s supposed Where are the Black Crowes, to go down, you know?

Where: circa 2013? Where does the VERIZON WIRELESS band fit into today’s market?

So you’re way ahead of the AMPHITHEATRE My thing is, “Well, what schedule. would we be like if we’re Well yeah, I think if we’re going to do the Black Crowes ahead, if we’re just ahead of things in the scheduling. When we decided this year? Where are our heads going to be?” Because everybody’s in a different place to take a hiatus three years ago, part of with other projects, you know? So I think the mentality of that was to make a kind it’s all about the presentation, now. And, of an adult, reasonable decision about our like, really being in love with rock and roll -lives. We were not in a very good place as and you know what? Really being accepting people or friends or family or band mates and nurturing that side of us. That’s what or whatever. And that’s what happens. we do. There’s very few groups that do that Especially the Black Crowes have always anymore. If they’re playing rock and roll, run on emotion. That’s what the Black you’re not really getting that authentic, Crowes are, you know? And the music is adulterated dose of it. But that’s where our indicative of that. hearts and minds are meeting right now. It’s a real, soulful, roots-oriented, cosmic thing.

How do you make creativity from the I think you have to play to your strengths. chaos?

So I feel that’s where the Black Crowes are How do we make it work? How do we right now. break it down so that the Black Crowes are

THE BLACK CROWES

MUSIC

BUSY LITTLE SPACE BEAVERS The Eagerly Awaited Return of Space-Rockers Man Or Astro-man?

BY BRET LOVE

A

RRIVING FROM THE VAST reaches of outer space (or Alabama, which is kind of the same thing) in the early ‘90s, Man Or Astro-Man blended the surf-rock sounds of Dick Dale and The Trashmen with a healthy dose of post-punk influence and what some might consider an unhealthy dose of obsession with cheesy sci-fi B-movies. If Mystery Science Theater 3000 had had a house band, they would’ve been perfect.

Over the course of a decade, the group rose to prominence on the alt-rock scene alongside surf-garage acts like The Woggles and Subsonics, signing with the influential Touch & Go Records label and working with iconic producer Steve Albini.

But after frontman Brian “Star Crunch” Causey left in 1998 to launch the Athensbased WARM Electronic Recordings label, the band gradually fell apart and went their separate ways.

Drummer Brian “Birdstuff ” Teasley stayed busy in the interim, co-founding popoular “robot band” Servotron (named after MST3K’s beloved ‘bot), recording and performing with bands like Har Mar Superstar and The Polyphonic Spree, writing for Chunklet magazine, and opening The Bottletree music venue in Birmingham.

But, in 2010, Birdstuff, Star Crunch and founding bassist Coco the Electronic Monkey Wizard (a.k.a. Robert DelBueno) decided to reunite for a few shows, including performances at the South By Southwest and North By Northeast music festivals. Now, the band has released Defcon 5…4…3…2…1, its first new album in over a decade, and will be touring to bring its distinctive space-rock sound to a venue near you.

We recently spoke with Birdstuff about the band’s questionable origins, its connection with Steve Albini (who produced the new LP), and where the Mothership will take them from here.

Tell me how you got together and decided to form Man or Astro-man?

The official story is that our vessel from group sector 23-V61 crash-landed into Auburn, a small town in Alabama. Parts of our ship scattered all around Planet Earth.

In order to integrate into society and travel the world and find those parts, we formed a punk rock band. That’s our modus operandi. As for the guise of how we went about that, we declared ourselves as young bucks who grew up in Alabama and started playing music together at the age of 19.

You decide which one is real...

Can you talk about the inspiration for playing surf-rock in the South?

We used to go on tour and play 11 shows in Florida and 50 shows in Mississippi.

Today, there’s not that network that there used to be in the late ‘80s and ‘90s. There used to be a core group of bands that had mutual admiration for each other– The Woggles, Flat Duo Jets, Subsonics etc.

We all interchanged dates and tours, and would come to each other’s shows.

It was a really fun scene. You could have a mini-tour of Tennessee and Arkansas and do 6 or 8 shows. Maybe I’m just out of the loop and don’t tour in that way any

more. It seems like not as many people play Johnson City or Hattiesburg as they used to.

Talk to me about the connection with Steve Albini, and why you keep working with him over the years.

We were huge fans of the Touch & Go label. It seemed like a cool label that really focused on the bands. Sub Pop had a weird aesthetic were they promoted their label more than the bands. But Touch & Go seemed very artist-oriented. We did some shoes with TAR, and they were working with Steve. We talked to him, and he’d seen us play in Chicago a few times, so we went to where he was recording. He had a house where the control room was in the attic, and we recorded in the basement.

It went great. We played live so much that just sticking lights in front of us and having a bunch of 22-year-old kids bust out a record in three days worked.

Are you guys still based in Atlanta, or are you back in Alabama?

We’re spread out between Athens, Birmingham and Atlanta. I’m the one that returned to the motherland, Alabama.

Can you talk about the lengthy hiatus, or break-up? What happened in 2001 that made you guys call it a day?

Some of it was practical, and some of it was just feeling like we had a good run. We had a separation/divorce with Star Crunch (a.ka. Brian Causey), the original founding guitarist. We had made a few records with the second lineup of the band. We were playing with 3 members in the band. It was kind of like when you’re driving and you get lost: Sometimes the best thing to do is to just pull over. I think that’s where we were.

You guys reunited in 2010. Tell me how that came together and influenced you to work on this current project?

In 2010, we got offered to perform several shows at SXSW, which really opened the door for us. Eventually it got to this point where we toured and made a new record. This is our fun project. We don’t tour as voluminously as we used to. We can do what we’re available to do, and do it outside of the normal scope of the music industry. It’s sort of like rediscovering our high school garage band.

It seems like putting out an album yourself and marketing it may be the best way to survive the music industry

WED. JUNE 05, 2013 • 8:30PM

SNOWDEN SEALIONS • TWIN TIGERS THU. JUNE 06, 2013 • 8:30PM

RADIATION CITY JOSEPH WAR

Was the gimmick of the mythology and the spacesuits part of what made it fun?

We were really influenced by stuff we hated. We came up at a time when alternative music was hitting the mainstream. But it was also a grand commoditization of how people approach underground music. We had no career expectations. We just wanted to be crazy, weird, have fun and put on shows. We were like, “Fuck being serious artists: we’re entertainers!” Having a reaction against something else seemed more artistic. I honestly didn’t have much expectation to play outside of Alabama when we first started.

TUE. JUNE 04, 2013 • 8:30PM

HOT 8 BRASS BAND WASTED POTENTIAL BRASS BAND DJ DOOKIE PLATTERS

SAT. JUNE 08, 2013 • 9:00PM

JACUZZI BOYS COPS • SIOUX CITY SUE SUN. JUNE 09, 2013 • 8:00PM

ICEAGE • LOWER GEORGES BATILLE BATTLE CRY TUE. JUNE 11, 2013 • 8:30PM

NIGHT BEDS • JENNY O. THU. JUNE 13, 2013 • 8:30PM

TWO GALLANTS BRONCHO

WED. JUNE 19, 2013 • 8:30PM

CHRISTOPHER OWENS (OF GIRLS) THU. JUNE 20, 2013 • 8:30PM

DAX RIGGS BEN TRICKEY

these days.

That’s true, to a degree. The industry has shifted now to where bands have to have infrastructure in music supervision to get a song in a commercial. But it’s been nice not having to be, like, “You really need to get this record finished by this weekend or it’s not going to come out for the CMJ festival, which means we’re not going to get a review in blah, blah…” With print media being mostly dead, the biggest difference is the unimaginable hyper-speed that bands can succeed from just a blog review. In our day, it was very much an organic growth industry: You had to go out and play a bunch of kick-ass shows, where your audience is 40 people the first time and 80 people the second time. Now, because new bands can make records really fast thanks to modern technology, they can’t live up to all the expectation because they haven’t developed their band yet. Can you imagine Superchunk or Polvo playing Saturday Night Live? In this day and age, if those bands were new, it could happen.

Is it possible to turn viral Internet success into long-term success?

I think it is much more difficult nowadays to develop “career bands.”

After not being together for so long, is this reunion a one-off or something you’re interested in doing long term?

Right now, the band is kind of leasing the place month-to-month. Back when we were doing music for TV and did the clone band, we always wanted to turn Man Or Astro-man into something more than a band, like what the Beastie Boys did with Grand Royal magazine. So, are we going to tour 200 places a year and put out a record every 18 months? No. But we’ve put a lot of hard work into this band, and it matters to me how people remember us. I have so much respect for people who have supported us. When people ask me to sign a record, I always ask them to sign something of mine. We never take it for granted. It’s something we’ve learned from punk-rock: [Some bands] didn’t want their audience to clap, telling them to “go start your own band, because you can do this!” Even though we’re old and jaded, we still haven’t completely lost that ideal.

Who knows what the future holds for us… except for us, because we’ve been to the future!

FRI. JUNE 21, 2013 • 8:00PM

KYLESA BLOOD CEREMONY WHITE HILLS • LAZER/ WULF SUN. JUNE 23, 2013 • 8:00PM

MIKAL CRONIN SHANNON AND THE CLAMS SHANTIH SHANTIH WED. JUNE 26, 2013 • 8:30PM

DEAFHEAVEN MARRIAGES

THU. JUNE 27, 2013 | 8:30PM

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

BEST

BBQ

LIVE MUSIC LINEUP FOR JULY Happy 4th Y’all!

FRI 5 – JOHN SOSOBEE SAT 6 – THE TONE PROPHETS FRI 12 – ATLANTA BOOGIE SAT 13 – JUMPIN’ JUKES FRI 19 – LADY T. & THE TOTALS SAT 20 – SEMINOLE JACKSON FRI 26 – RUMBLE FISH SAT 27 – DAVE BOYD SUNS - FAT BACK DELUXE MONS - PEAD BOY & THE PORK BELLYS TUES - J.T. SPEED WEDS - THE HOLLIDAYS THUS - CHICKENSHACK

1811 Piedmont Ave. NE

404-607-1622

For Booking: 404-325-8846 insiteatlanta.com • July 2013 • PG 25

TRAVEL

DARWIN’S PARADISE

Ecotourism & Adventure in the Galapagos Islands

BY BRET LOVE

M

Y BODY IS A SEA CAVE. WITH EVERY crashing wave, every weebly-wobbly tilt of our ship, every rollercoaster-like moment of catching air before slamming down with an audible thump, it feels as if the cavern of my belly is filling with sloshing water, gradually rushing higher and higher in search of any crevice through which it might escape. With great effort, I manage to hold nausea at bay… but just barely.

We’re aboard the M/Y Eric, the 20-passenger flagship yacht of ecotourism operators Ecoventura, on a weeklong adventure through the Galapagos Islands. On our first night, we’re sailing north from the capital city of San Cristobal to the tiny island of Genovesa, and although I’ve always loved the ocean I’m rapidly coming to the realization that I’m not much of a seaman. It’s best out on the sundeck, where lounge chairs afford exceptional views of the sun setting on Kicker Rock, plus a refreshing wind that turns to a brisk chill as the evening sky provides the most brilliant star show you can imagine.

MAN VS. WILD

For all the tranquil serenity of its natural beauty, this archipelago of islands located 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador has a remarkably rough ‘n’ tumble history. Mankind has been trying to tame these islands for centuries– long before Charles Darwin concocted his Theory of Evolution based on the groundbreaking scientific discoveries he made after the famed voyage of the Beagle.

The islands were discovered by accident in 1525, when Spanish Bishop Tomás de Berlanga’s ship drifted ashore, its crew on the verge of death from lack of water. During the 17th and 18th centuries the Galapagos was a favorite spot among pirates (who hid there after attacking Spanish galleons, pillaging the local tortoise population for meat) and whalers (who plundered its waters for their ample bounty). Yet all efforts to colonize the area ended in death and despair, and by the late 1800s the islands were considered cursed.

Even now, most of the islands remain uninhabited, and laws put in place to protect the remarkable biodiversity of its ecosystems are designed to keep it that way. In fact, 97.5% of the Galapagos archipelago is one big national park, meaning you couldn’t move there if you wanted to.

ISLANDS OF ADVENTURE

From the moment we set foot on Genovesa, I immediately understood why the Galapagos National Park works so hard to preserve the region’s delicate ecological balance: It was like nothing I’d seen on my previous adventures abroad. We walked perhaps 100 yards total in a span of 3 hours, never deviating from a narrow, clearly marked path, and yet we were met by an Eden-like abundance of wildlife.

The beautiful beach was lined with adorable sea lions sunning themselves, seemingly oblivious to our presence. A mating pair of red-eyed swallow-tailed gulls nested on the open beach, while another female tended to her baby on the rocks nearby.

Tiger herons, Nazca boobys and red-footed boobys were literally everywhere, the babies eagerly squawking for their next meal from nests near or even on the ground. Because they have no natural predators and have not yet learned to fear humans, most of them were close enough that we could have easily touched them (though no one dared, for fear of the wrath of our passionate naturalist guides, Ceci Guerrero and Yvonne Mortola).

Though we loved Genovesa for its picturesque scenery and remarkable breadth of wildlife, every island we visited offered its distinctive pleasures. We spent an amazing morning off the coast of Fernandina– the youngest island in the archipelago– spotting Bryde’s whales cresting and spouting, then went ashore to find hundreds of marine iguanas cluttered en masse like kittens (albeit hissing, spitting kittens who look like mini-Godzillas). It was also on Fernandina that we witnessed a mesmerizing mating ritual among flightless cormorants, of which there are less than 1,000 left in the world. The bizarre volcanic rock formations of Santiago Island were home to thousands of colorful Sally Lightfoot crabs, which darted and dashed amongst the rocks along the shore as young sea lions frolicked playfully in the surf.

The massive eroded tuff cone of Pinnacle Rock made Bartolome Island a perfect spot for catching a sunset, while

PG 26 • July 2013 • insiteatlanta.com

hiking up the otherworldly landscape to the volcano’s summit offered an excellent workout the next morning, providing spectacular views that stretched on for miles. North Seymour Island featured the dazzling colors of blue-footed boobys, brilliant yellows and oranges of land iguanas, and vivid red inflated pouches of magnificent frigate birds hoping to impress potential mates.

On the island of Santa Cruz we explored the Charles Darwin Research Station, the heart of Galapagos conservation efforts, where we learned about prehistoric-looking Galapagos Tortoises and how selective breeding brought them back from the brink of extinction. We learned how invasive species and over-hunting nearly wiped them out before the Galapagos was declared a national park in 1959 (100 years after the publication of Darwin’s The Origin of Species), a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978, and a 27,000 square mile marine reserve in 1986. Today, with a population of over 19,000, the tortoises’ future, and that of other amazing animals in the Galapagos, seems secure thanks to strictly-enforced conservation laws.

UNDER THE SEA

If there was one surprise about our Galapagos adventure, it was how undersold the islands’ underwater attractions are. I’ve snorkeled all over the world, and never have I seen the sheer diversity of species with which we were met every single time we entered Galapagos waters.

Few words can express how weird and wonderful it is see a bird (the flightless cormorant) swimming on the bottom of the ocean beneath you, or to watch a marine iguana feeding on algae 20 feet beneath the surface, or to accidentally follow a trio of Galapagos sea turtles into a school of medusa jellyfish that look like something straight out of Finding Nemo. This is the only place in the world where you can find yourself swimming with penguins, marveling at their rocket-like speed as they zip through the waves. White-tipped reef shark spottings are frequent, though they were the one Galapagos species that seemed to avoid humans like the plague (perhaps due to the increasing frequency of illegal shark-finning in the area).

My favorite memory was swimming with Galapagos sea lions, which seemed ambivalent on land but in the water proved eminently curious and eager to engage. Our most memorable encounter came off the island of Santiago, where I swam alongside a young sea lion with my video camera as he floated lazily. As I twisted and turned to get the best shot of him, he began swimming faster and faster, coming closer with each subsequent pass. The more I contorted my body to keep him in frame, the more playful he got, zooming beneath me like a torpedo, blowing bubbles and flipping out of the water. I dove down and tried to mimic him, only to realize he was mimicking me. It was one of the most exhilarating experiences of my life.

VOYAGE OF DISCOVERY

The truth is, EVERYTHING in the Galapagos seems so spectacular that you can have a once-in-a-lifetime experience and not even realize it. Snorkeling on our first day off the coast of Playa Ochoa, I filmed a small, iridescent blue fish that glowed like neon in the waters 75 yards from shore. I thought nothing of it until the end of our journey, when our group was watching my video clips on the Eric’s flat-screen TV. Neither of our guides had ever seen anything like the fish, nor had the ship’s Captain.

So when we were at the Charles Darwin Research Station, Ceci took me behind the scenes to speak to the scientists there.

To make a long story short, nobody could identify our mystery fish– not even Dr. Jack Grove, author of The Fishes of the Galapagos Islands. After watching our video, Grove, one of the world’s foremost experts on Galapagos wildlife, admitted that he did not know what the fish was, but “it is not a typical species known to the Galapagos.” It remains entirely possible that we have the only documented evidence of what may prove to be a new fish species.

The Galapagos Islands may not be for everyone. The physical challenges of two hikes and a snorkel per day require a hearty constitution, just as the waves of lengthy inter-island passages require a strong stomach. But you know what they say about heaven: Sometimes you have to go through hell to get there.

For those addicted to the thrill of adventure, this wildlife-rich wonderland is nothing short of paradise.

MUSIC

UNCLASSIFIABLE

Philly’s Restorations Craft A Unique Sound That’s Truly Their Own

BY JOHN B. MOORE

I

T’S NOT ALWAYS EASY GETTING folks to pay attention to your band when there is really no shorthand to describe your music.

Such is the case for Philadelphia’s Restorations, a fantastically original band that has been driving critics nuts for years now as they praise their records, while at the same time fumbling for the proper prefix to slap in front of the term “rock” in describing the group’s sound.

Just imagine the nightmare of trying to book out-of-town shows, and the voice on the other end of the phone asks, “Well, who do you sound like?” If there’s any justice in the music world, Restorations’ second full length, the aptly titled LP2 (their first for the SideOneDummy label), will be their calling card moving forward.

Jon Loudon, the band’s singer/guitarist, spoke with us recently about the new record, their experience with record labels, and the consequences of not having an easilydefinable sound.

In every review I’ve read on you guys, there’s almost always this mention that your sound is not easy to classify in a specific genre. Has that been a problem when you’ve tried to book shows or promote yourselves– the fact that there’s not a simple way to explain your band?

Uh, sort of… We’ve been really lucky in that people have been happy to just let us do what we want and just give us the room to not feel like we’re sticking out too much. And that’s been really fun. We’ve been on tour with metal bands, pop-punk bands, indie-rock bands and quiet acoustic shows. It’s never really been too weird. Really, ever since the beginning, we’ve had friends that would just put us on shows. It’s been a really cool experience, and I think it frees us up to try weirder things with our music.

How did you guys connect with SideOneDummy?

Yeah, that was a real surprise. It was sort of a funny way the whole thing happened. A friend of a friend helped hook us up. A buddy of ours, Rob, was working at the Syndicate in New York. He’s an old Philly/Jersey guy who was an active participate in the punk scene, and I guess he’s friends with some of the guys at SideOne. While not pushing us on them, he shared some of our music and passed our name along. There were very cool and said, “Hey, if you ever need a hand, let us know.”

Then they eventually said, “Hey, let’s make a record together.” It blew my mind that they would get in touch with us.

If you count EPs, 7-inches and 10-inches, this makes it your third label, between Tiny

Engines, Paper + Plastick and SideOne? Yeah. We also did a 7-inch on Evil Weevil and we were on Cavity Records for a hot minute, and I think that should be it.

So are you taking things from being on different labels, learning the pros and cons of each one? Do they all essentially function the same or do they all run differently?

It’s all completely different. We always try and put things out with friends, and that has always worked out really well for us. Just keeping our expectations realistic and helping out people we know and having people we know help us out, just keeping it in the family. The only time we ever went outside that was to work with Paper + Plastick, and that turned out so poorly that we were like, “No more big labels.

We’re done.” Then Tiny Engines helped us out with the next one, and they did such a good job that we’re still a band. (Laughs) It’s funny, because when SideOne hit us up we all thought, “Oh no, another big label,” and we were really cautious about it for a very long time. But they are really good people. We’ve always tried to mix it up and work with different people that seemed interesting. We’ve never looked at it as a stepping stone approach. Up to the last year or so, we hadn’t been doing a lot, so we didn’t really need a big label. Looking for resources was not much of a necessity for us. This is totally new territory for us.

What was the problem you had with Paper + Plastick? Was it just about miscommunication, or you didn’t have the same goals?

Yeah, it was pretty bad. We went to go record and the money he had promised us for the recording never showed up, and he was lying to us about it. It was pretty bad.

Not good. When you signed with SideOne, had you already been working on this album?

Or did you sign with them and then start the process of writing and recording for LP2?

We always kind of keep writing, just as an exercise. That’s really the core goal of the band: to just keep ourselves occupied. So when SideOne hit us up, we were already thinking about another full length. We wanted to record with our good friend Jon Low and we sort of demoed what we wanted to do on the full length. We did that 7-inch with Tiny Engines, with Jon, and sent it to SideOne to say, “This is sort of what we want to do.” Some of the stuff on LP2 is stuff we had started for LP1, but didn’t work, while some is from the demos we did. It’s sort of a continual thought with us: We’ll write, cut songs and then find a place for them.

POP-PUNK DEFENDERS New Jersey’s Man Overboard is a Band On A Mission

BY JOHN B. MOORE

I

N THE FIVE YEARS THEY’VE BEEN a band, the guys in Man Overboard have gone above and beyond just promoting their music. They’ve become flag-bearers for the whole pop- punk scene, hosting the website DefendPopPunk.com, forming their own label (Lost Tape Collective), and launching a weekly podcast to showcase bands and music they like.

Always prolific, they have a handful of EPs under their belt, split singles, a live album, and are just about to release their third fulllength (again, they have only been a band for five years!).

With a summer of Warped Tour dates already lined up, guitarist and former drummer Justin Collier spoke with us recently about the band’s ethos, their lineup changes, and the suddenly popular Jersey/Philly music scene.

So you guys are from the Mt. Laurel, NJ area. Are you surprised by how much attention the whole Jersey/Philly music scene has been getting lately, between you guys, Restorations, Luther, The Menzingers, Wonder Years, and a slew of others?

I’m not necessarily surprised because all of the bands are really hard working, but it’s cool that there have been that many bands coming up recently that are getting noticed. We actually recorded this record in Conshohocken (PA). And the producer, Will Yip, did the last Circa Survive record there, he did the last two Title Fight records there, and None More Black. He’s done a bunch of stuff lately, so we did our record there. It was pretty close, so we got to commute there and go back home every day, so it was awesome.

And was that your first time working with Will?

Yeah, we did all of our other stuff with Jesse Canon, because we always recorded at that studio. This was the first time we went to a different studio, so that was definitely a new thing. We have always liked a lot of the records Will has worked on, so we went to meet with him to get a feel for him and he was awesome. He was one of the nicest people we ever met. You can’t not get along with him.

We hit it off very well and had a great time recording with him.

So do you have a good theory at all for why this region is such fertile ground for this type of music?

For sure; most bands that hear about come out of this area, or New England, New York, California or the Pacific Northwest, but you don’t hear of too many coming out of Kansas or smaller places and I think the reason is there are so many bands in our area that you have to be better or no one is going to care.

That competition raises the bar. That’s part of the reason, I think.

So Heart Attack is your third full-length, and you guys have already put out a ton of EPs, splits and others. Do you want to talk a little about the songs behind this one?

As far as the songs go, we had been on the road for about two years, but a lot of the themes are the same: feelings, girls, coming of age, all those types of things. There have just been some changes with all of us, some people

got married, got into relationships, and some are still single.

So do you have any favorite songs off this new record yet?

It’s always hard to pick, but I think the first song (“Secret Pain”), I really like that one and I really like the last song on the record (“Wide Awake”), too.

Do you sit down with the thought in mind that the songs will be for a specific album, or are you guys always recording?

Zac is always writing songs. For every one that’s on the record, he’s got five more that you’ve never heard and five more on top of those that I’ve never heard before. We had over 25 songs for this record and, in going through the demos, we decide, “We can’t have both of these songs, because they’re both slow,” so we pick a variety. Who knows what will happen to those that didn’t make it?

Maybe we’ll do some EPs or some singles, or some might end up on the next record.

Unlike Guns N’ Roses, your fans never have to wait too long for new music.

(Laughs) Yeah, it was no Chinese Democracy, but this really was the longest that we’ve ever put our fans through without new music - over a year. But this record is 14 songs, so hopefully people will think it was worth the wait.

You guys are almost a brand on your own, with the band, your own label (The Lost Tape Collective), and the Defend Pop Punk website.

Yeah, and we also do a radio show called “Mano Radio” every week. What we try to do, besides being a band that just puts out music, is to build a whole culture around the group.

The whole Defend Pop Punk thing wasn’t always intentional– it just kind of became something people attached themselves to.

But we do Lost Tape Collective and we do the radio show so that kids will discover some of the other bands we’re really into.

And is this something you guys are going to be pretty consistent about putting out?

Yeah, we’re going to do it every week at least until the end of summer.

Speaking of the summer, do you have tour plans yet?

Yeah, we’re actually going to be doing the Warped Tour once again. We’ll be on it every day! insiteatlanta.com • July 2013 • PG 27

MUSIC

OH, SANDY!

The Thermals Create Brilliance In The Face of Disaster

BY JOHN B. MOORE

P

ICKING THE RIGHT PRODUCER for your record has always been paramount for bands. You want someone who shares your vision; someone who can take your ideas and help craft them into musical masterpieces that will bring you fame, fortune and icon status. Or, at the very least, keep the band from disappearing into obscurity for one more record.

Portland-based indie-rockers The Thermals suggest adding another question to the producer interview checklist: How well would they hold up in a storm?

Thermals producer John Agnello (Sonic Youth, Dinosaur Jr.) clearly passed the test.

He was behind the boards for the band’s latest record, Desperate Ground, as they were recording in Hoboken last fall. With Hurricane Sandy aiming for the city, they fled to Agnello’s house and spent the rest of the week– often without power– hanging out with him and his family.

Bassist/singer Kathy Foster spoke with us recently about signing to Saddle Creek, and the pressure of making an album with the largest hurricane in the history of America’s East Coast barreling toward your studio.

Congrats on signing to Saddle Creek. How did you first connect with the label?

That’s tough to say because we’ve actually known them a long time. We met the guys through Bright Eyes, probably about 10 years ago. We helped Conor (Oberst, Bright Eyes founder) set up his first show in Portland, and we’d stay with them when we were in Omaha.

We also met different (Saddle Creek) bands

through touring.

Did this just finally seem like the right time to work with them?

Yeah, it just seemed like everything lined up.

They approached us a few years ago, but we decided to go with Kill Rock Stars because they were right here in Portland and seemed like the right choice at the right time. This time around it seemed like a good fit to work with (Saddle Creek), and their schedule had just opened. We had already recorded the record and wanted to get it out as soon as possible, and their schedule allowed for that.

Label-wise, it seems like a natural fit for you guys.

Yeah, a lot of people are saying that. We’re getting a lot of love from the fans, and everyone seems to be excited about this. It’s kind of surprising– I didn’t know people cared so much.

Is there a general theme to the songs on Desperate Ground?

It’s based around this lone rogue in the night.

The theme is around this fictitious man against the world. It’s you against the world, and there’s fear and anger, and it becomes this, “Well, fuck it!” attitude. You go into the war and fight until you die, I guess.

I read somewhere that you guys finished recording just hours before Hurricane Sandy hit. Is that right?

Yeah, we were actually supposed to be in the studio until Nov. 1, so we had two more days that we had booked there. We got there Oct. 14

or so and, as we were recording, the storm was getting closer. We knew when it was supposed to hit, so John Agnello– who was producing us and lives in Jersey City, right next to Hoboken, where we were recording– said “OK, we need to step on it and move out of here.” We were mixing at the time, so it was crazy… He was working hard to get it done.

Did this break a mixing record for you guys?

Actually, no. I think Fucking A, our second record, was recorded and mixed in something like five days. But (Agnello) was awesome because he worked really hard, it sounded awesome, and then he was like, “You’re coming home with me!” It was crazy because we were still mixing and the owner of the studio and interns were preparing the studio for the storm, so they were moving gear out of the room and setting up gas- powered water pumps. Actually, the last song that we mixed was called “Howl Of The Wind.”

Was that just a coincidence?

Yeah, and so we had to hurry up and get out of there. They had already caulked this piece of plywood in the doorway, so we had to go out the back.

So how long did you stay in Jersey City?

We stayed there the rest of that week. We went home with John and stayed with him for like five days with him and his family. We felt really lucky. It was all cozy there, and his family was really sweet and welcoming. John is super fun and energetic, and he was stoked on the record, so we woke up early the first morning to John blasting the record in the kitchen while he made us breakfast. We lost power for two and a half days, so he got out a hand-cranked radio.

For two days we sat around listening to music, playing games and drinking. It was actually really fun.

So I guess that’s another reason to be picky about who you chose to produce.

Yeah, I know… you might be stuck with them in an emergency!

GROUP MIND

Speedy Ortiz Evolved From A Solo Project Into A Real Live Band

BY JOHN B. MOORE

W

HAT STARTED OUT AS A SOLO PROJECT for Boston (by way of New York) musician Sadie Dupuis has quickly evolved into a full-blown four-piece known as Speedy Ortiz.

Bringing to mind some of the best bands from the ‘90s– The Pixies, Pavement, The Breeders– Speedy Ortiz has a knack for putting great lyrics over a wall of guitar swirls with quick dynamic shifts. This signature is all over Major Arcana, the band’s first full length.

Comprised of singer/guitarist Sadie Dupuis, drummer Mike Falcone, guitarist Matt Robidoux and bassist Darl Ferm, the group was kind enough to talk with us recently about have they came together, their new record, and why Boston is such a great music scene for DIY bands.

How did the focus of Speedy Ortiz change once you added a full band?

Sadie: “Speedy Ortiz, the solo project” was pretty short lived—maybe two months, with no live shows– and I don’t really consider those releases as definitive Speedy Ortiz anymore. We considered changing the name from Speedy Ortiz once it was a full band, but, for whatever reason, we never did. And then it felt like it was too late. Once we became a full band, which was a year and a half ago, we learned a few of the old “solo” songs.

How did you guys meet each other?

Matt: We met through our respective defunct rock groups, which were more or less in the same northeast scene. Darl joined shortly thereafter, and it became a more collaborative process.

The focus quickly changed into doing as much as we possibly could all the time.

Mike: Sadie’s band, Quilty, and my band, Ovlov, often shared bills at shows booked by Darl at Wesleyan. I didn’t know Matt until we played together in Speedy. I don’t think any of us realized it would turn into our full-time band when we started playing.

Boston obviously has a fantastic music scene. How has the band benefited from being part of that scene?

Darl: The music coming from Boston, particularly Allston and Jamaica Plains, is some of my favorite music. I’m sure it has become a subconscious influence. It’s great to play with your favorite bands.

Matt: Boston’s one of the best scenes in the U.S. We started playing a lot at the height of the basement show boom in Boston, when it seemed like there were 10 house party shows a night in Allston. Things have changed in the past few months, with lots of these venues getting shut down, but the Boston scene is still as vibrant as ever. I’m personally indebted to the Boston DIY scene for how it’s shaped me as a musician and person.

Sadie: Part of the reason I moved to Massachusetts from New York was that I loved Boston bands like Grass Is Green and Pile.

It’s really nice that my favorite bands happen to be comprised of my friends, and I can see them play regularly. I also don’t have to lie and be like, “Great set, man!” to sucky bands with nice people, which I had to do a LOT when living in New York.

This is your first full-length album. Were most of these songs written specifically for this record, or had you been working on some for a while?

Darl: It’s a bit of both. Some of the songs were written and played before I joined the band, while other songs, such as

PG 28 • July 2013 • insiteatlanta.com

“Plough,” were written shortly before we recorded. Luckily, the songs don’t sound disjointed because of this.

Sadie: Before we settled on “Plough” as the title for the penultimate song on the album, its working name was “Track 9” because, duh, we needed a ninth song.

Mike: “MKVI” is an oldie. It used to be titled “Mark VI.” Buster (Sadie’s dog) has a solo on the original version.

Do you guys all share similar musical influences? Any influences that would surprise people?

Matt: Moth Cock.

Darl: A lot of hip-hop– J Dilla, 9th Wonder, DJ Premiere...

Sadie: I just wrote a song the other day that has a Get Up Kids section followed by a Katy Perry section, followed by a Rob Crow section. Mike always accuses me of writing country songs, and I think that’s bullshit. Fuck you, Mike.

Mike: Oh puh-leeze. I only said that about “Basketball,” which is totally a country song. It’s just missing the steel guitar. There are times when all four of us have completely different bands in mind.

Not always rock music. The complete list of bands would be very long and boring.

How did you connect with Carpark Records?

Matt: Todd Hyman [the label’s owner] came to one of our shows during a snowstorm in Somerville.

Sadie: They e-mailed us ZZ Top music videos and then we faxed them back a signed contract.

What’s next for the band?

Sadie: We’re touring the U.S. for July and August. My summer tour goals are to visit the Rothko Chapel in Houston, the John Ashbery bridge in Minneapolis, and to not forget to eat garlic.

Mike: Gaining lots of chub weight. Pizza and nachos.

Matt: A lot of touring, more of what we’ve been doing, new songs and figuring out how to balance other aspects of life with the band.

MUSIC

USE YOUR DISILLUSION

Atlanta’s Art-Metal Upstarts O’Brother Avoid the Dreaded Sophomore Slump

BY BRET LOVE

A

TLANTA-BASED BAND O’BROTHER originally formed in 2005, with bassist Anton Dang, guitarist Johnny Dang and drummer Michael Martens ultimately replacing their original frontman with singer/guitarist Tanner Merritt in 2008. But it took until 2011 before the quintet (which added guitarist Jordan McGhin last year) released its debut album, Garden Window.

Produced by Andy Hull and guitarist Robert McDowell of Manchester Orchestra, the art-metal album proved to be a stunning breakthrough, earning comparisons to icons ranging from Radiohead to Tool. The songs varied broadly in style and scope, from the driving rhythms of “Lo” to the 14-minute prog epic “Cleanse Me,” which took listeners on an extended aural journey through expansive sonic territory.

Now, after a solid year of touring with bands such as Junius and Thrice, the band has returned with an even more ambitious sophomore LP, Disillusion. Two weeks before its release, they’ll also be performing at Lollapalooza for the first time. We recently spoke with Tanner Merritt to learn a little more about the band’s evolution, how the critical acclaim of Garden Window impacted their approach to the follow-up, and how Disillusion will be different from their debut.

Tell me the story of how the group originally came together back in 2005.

Michael, Anton, and Johnny grew up together

and had been playing music in their parents’ garages since they were young teenagers. Some years later they met the band’s previous singer, Spencer Ussery; he and Johnny decided to form a band. Naturally, Anton and Michael were the obvious choice of a rhythm section. I’m not sure what they would cite as their original influences.

When the band re-formed with Aaron and I in 2008, we just wanted to make loud, pretty, but creepy music– sort of the musical embodiment of a secret admirer who becomes too persistent.

Atlanta’s metal scene has always seemed somewhat fractured to me. Was it difficult to get a foothold in the local scene?

Definitely. We never fit into any of the local scenes properly. We were a little too chill to fit into the hardcore/metal genre, and all the indie bands at the time were playing cutesy folk music.

So it was difficult to find bands to play with.

Mastodon seems to be similarly influenced by prog and metal. Did their success help or hurt O’Brother’s opportunities in any way?

I think their success had little, if any effect on our band. We all really like Mastodon, but have received very few comparisons to them.

If anything, it helps in association. Georgia has bred some pretty awesome heavy bands– like Mastodon, Baroness, Torche, Kylesa, etc.– and we are more than happy to be categorized with them by geographical association. It just doesn’t happen all that much.

I know you guys are close to Andy Hull and the

guys from Manchester Orchestra. How did the two groups originally get connected?

I’m not exactly sure. Fate, maybe? Planetary alignment? Most likely from everyone involved having grown up playing in local Georgia bands together.

I know you said you joined the band in 2008, but it took you guys 3 years after that to put out your first album. What took so long?

Well, we put out an EP in 2009 (The Death of Day) that was 5 songs and 35 minutes long.

We toured off of that EP for a couple years, then started working on Garden Window in December of 2010.

Garden Window was fairly well received, earning you comparisons to groundbreaking bands like Tool and Radiohead. How did the reception measure up against your hopes and expectations?

The reception for the record, and the record itself, far exceeded any expectations we had. We made the record as best we could with what little we had, largely due to the help we received from Robert and Andy of Manchester Orchestra, and it turned out far better than anyone expected it to.

Did that somewhat universal stamp of approval give you any sort of amplified confidence when it came time to write songs for Disillusion?

Not really. As peoples’ expectations grow, so does one’s necessity to deliver. But it becomes more rewarding, I think.

What was behind the decision to work with Mike Sapone as the producer rather than reuniting with the Manchester Orchestra guys?

How did he impact your sound?

Mike mixed Garden Window, and we were all very pleased with it. He took what we worked on with Andy and Robert and made it exponentially better sounding. We had met with him several times after working with him on Garden Window, and loved being around him. Andy and Robert were also stoked about the choice. So it was a no-brainer.

You are going be playing Lollapalooza 2 weeks before the new album drops. What’s your feeling knowing you’re going to play in front of such huge crowds alongside alt-rock icons like Vampire Weekend and The Cure?

It’s pretty awesome. We’ve done some festivals in the past that had some huge bands on the bill, but Lollapalooza itself is pretty monumental for us. Personally, I’ve been wanting to go for the last 10 years. So it’s surreal that, my first time there, we will be playing it.

The sophomore album can often make or break a band. Where do you hope to see O’Brother a year or two from now, after all the relentless touring and promotion is over?

It’s hard to say. The music industry is a pretty volatile thing. I feel like it could implode upon itself at any given moment. We’re just grateful for every year that we are able to do what we love.

$ 6 O F FATLANTIC A DSTATION MISSION 265 18th Street, Atlanta, GA 30363 | Across from Publix, Atlantic Drive 2nd Floor, Elevator 5 TitanicAtlanta.com | BodiesAtlanta.com

Redeem at Box Office to receive $5 off BODIES. The Exhibition or Titanic. The Artifact Exhibition full price adult admission. may not be combined with any other discount or offer.

Limit 6 persons per coupon. Last admission 1 hour prior to close. Management reserves all rights to this disclaimer. Code: INSITE. Exp. 8/15/2013.

TICKETS AVAILABLE ONLINE AT TICKETMASTER.COM AND AT ALL TICKETMASTER OUTLETS. TO CHARGE TICKETS BY PHONE, CALL (800) 745-3000.

TICKETS AVAILABLE AT TICKETMASTER.COM AND AT ALL OUTLETS. TOBY CHARGE TICKETS

BY PHONE, (800) 745-3000.

TICKETS AVAILABLE ONLINE AT TICKETMASTER.COM AND ALLONLINE TICKETMASTER OUTLETS. TOTICKETMASTER CHARGE TICKETS PHONE, CALL (800)CALL 745-3000.

ATL_InSite_Bodies-Titanic_10X7-2.indd 1 ATL_InSite_Bodies-Titanic_10X7-2.indd 1

insiteatlanta.com • July 2013 • PG 29 3/25/13 12:45 PM

COLUMN

SPORTS

FANATIC A Monthly Sports Wrap-up

BY DEMARCO WILLIAMS “In all due respect to Game of Thrones, Mad Men and The Walking Dead on the small screen, not to mention 2013 films starring the likes of Brad Pitt, Tom Cruise and Leonardo DiCaprio, the Hawks’ quest for the Cup has outshined them all for thrills, spills and yes, chills… In one of the most stunning turnarounds in a potential clinch game in the history of sports, the BLACKHAWKS scored two goals within a 17-second span late in the third period to snatch victory from the Bruin-bear jaws of defeat. Suddenly a city gearing up for a Game 7 in Chicago had to make the same kind of adjustments the Hawks had to make all season long.” – Chicago Sun-Times’ Richard Roeper, after the Blackhawks’ Stanly Cup Finals victory “It’s a special group. You know what? This season started over nine months ago with that trip to China and we were able to experience so many cool things together in the regular season. But at times, it just seems to be going by so fast… Miami parties better than any city in the world. But it took nine months, nine months of incredible sacrifice, not only by these men right here but everybody in our organization, grinding it out every single day, ups and downs, highs and lows. And to have a culmination like Game 7 in front of all of you here is incredible.” –MIAMI HEAT HEAD COACH ERIK SPOELSTRA, during the team’s NBA Finals championship celebration Though the Heat haven’t had but a few weeks to relish in their impressive sevengame Finals series win over the San Antonio Spurs, it’s already time to start looking ahead to the 2013-14 campaign. Though the June 27 NBA Draft and free-agency season starting on July 1 will have a lot to say about next year’s champion, we feel these five teams will

Chicago Blackhawks

PG 30 • July 2013 • insiteatlanta.com

give the Heat the biggest challenge in next season’s playoffs: 5) Indiana Pacers 4) L.A. Clippers 3) Golden State Warriors 2) Chicago Bulls 1) Oklahoma City Thunder.

“Two weeks ago, I was in a fantastic situation, winning at Roland Garros. Now, losing in the first round, it’s tough… The tour continues.

Life continues. This is a sport of victories, not a sport of losses. Nobody remembers the losses. I don’t want to remember the loss.” – RAFAEL NADAL, after losing his openinground Wimbledon match just a few weeks after winning the French Open While the baseball universe will convene around New York City for the MLB ALLSTAR GAME on July 16, there is a lot of important regular-season action happening before and after the midseason classic this month. Here are the five division-shaping series fans should keep their eyes on most: 5) Boston at Oakland, July 12-14; 4) Texas at Baltimore, July 8-11; 3) St. Louis at Atlanta, July 26-28; 2) Texas at Detroit, July 12-14; 1) New York Yankees at Boston, July 19-21.

And finally…

Retired tennis pro Andy Roddick has signed on with new 24/7 all-sports network Fox Sports 1 as a co-host for its three-hour show Fox Sports Live… L.A. Dodgers outfield sensation Yasiel Puig had 34 hits and seven home runs as of June 25, making him the first player in the modern era to notch those kinds of numbers in his first 20 MLB games…

During the week this issue went to press, the city of Boston dealt with a heartbreaking Stanley Cup Finals loss, the departure of the Celtics head coach, Doc Rivers, to the Clippers and the soap opera surrounding New England Patriots tight end Aaron Hernandez’s connection to the mysterious death of family associate Odin Lloyd.

OUR FAVORITE THINGS

polycarbonate lenses, and proprietary Thermogrip moisture-absorbing temple tips T’S SUMMER VACATION TIME! and nose pads. ZEAL OPTICS (zealoptics.

And I mean that literally, as I’m writing com) is the first eyeglass company in the world this column from my hotel in Cancun. As to offer an entire line of eco-friendly shades we’ve begun traveling more and more in recent made from plant-based material, but they look years, we’ve found that certain products can cool enough to pass muster even if you’re not a help make the stress of vacations easier. Here tree-hugger. SERENGETI (serengeti-eyewear. are a few of our favorites this summer: com) features sleek, slick styles aimed at the On our recent road trip to Outer Banks, luxury market, with photochromic technology NC (where the main road to the islands was designed to reduce eye fatigue in even the closed), we came to understand how vital a most intense sunlight. But, for something GPS can be when traversing new territory. The completely different, I’m really digging MAGELLAN SMARTGPS (magellangps.

WOOED (wooedbywood.com), the San com) is being heralded Francisco-based company that GARMIN’S NUVI 3597 as a game-changer for makes glass and accessories integrating social, local and from reclaimed or sustainably mobile features through harvested wood. They’re just its cloud-enabled Smart one Bruno Mars endorsement Ecosystem. Its free iOS/ away from being must-haves Android apps allow it to for hipsters. suggest restaurants and My lady has huge boobs, shops in the area from and it’s a struggle every year Yelp and Foursquare, to find swimsuits that fit SeV CONVERTIBLE and display fuel prices at them. SUNSET SEPARATES PANTS service stations as you go. (sunsetsseparates.com) is But the GARMIN NUVI the rare brand that caters 3597 LMT HD (garmin. to everyone from junior to com) is a cut above the full-figured sizes, offering 21 rest, with a 5” hi-res display prints and complementary with “pinch and zoom” solids in 30 different cuts, capability, highly detailed in sizes from S through 16 maps, traffic updates every and cup sizes A to G. The 30 seconds, voice-activated NYNE BLUETOOTH sophisticated designs of navigation, and active AERIN ROSE SWIMWEAR SPEAKER lane guidance that makes (aerinrose.com) have earned getting through even the rave reviews from Oprah and most unusual interchanges Glamour for their focus on a breeze. fit, especially bra sizing. By Packing light to avoid utilizing underwire, stabilized baggage fees is all the rage. fabric, custom designed So convertible clothing cups and bandwidth sizing, has become de rigeur for their swimsuits flatter every WOOED SUNGLASSES serious travelers. My lady woman’s curves no matter and my daughter both love how large or small. But, for SWITCHFLOPS from the second year in a row, Lindsey Phillips Shoes her favorite suit came from (lindsay-phillips.com), each GURIA (shopguria.com), the pair of which comes with ultra-sexy Brazilian line that numerous colorful straps makes summer swimsuits and decorative buttons, sizzle. Their Safari Wavy effectively giving you 3-4 3-in-1 Chic Top converts different “looks” for the GURIA easily from triangle to halter price of one. And I’m a to bandeau, and converts SWIMWEAR big fan of Scottevest’s SeV me from curious to gawking CONVERTIBLE TRAVEL to drooling.

PANTS (Scottevest.com), When you’re taking 10-11 which can change from trips per year (as we did in shorts to long pants in a 2012), you’d be amazed how flash, have 10 pickpocketmuch wear and tear you get proof pockets, are made on your luggage. After putting from nylon and treated holes in one bag and breaking HEYS USA’S ECO with Teflon for water and the handle on another, it was stain resistance, and can be LUGGAGE time to try out new blood. We easily washed in a sink and started with eBAGS TLS 25” dried in hours.

EXPANDABLE UPRIGHT Whether we’re having (ebags.com), which was a “staycation” at Lake lightweight, affordable and Allatoona or a vacation expansive, but ultimately too at the beach, we love big for our “no-checked-bags” to take our tunes with philosophy. HEYS USA’S us. The NYNE NB-250 ECO LEAVES 3-PIECE SET BLUETOOTH SPEAKER (heysusa.com) is a new line of (nyne.com) offers incredible sound, 8-10 eco-friendly luggage whose shell is made from hours of portable Lithium Ion battery power, 100% recycled plastics. The 4-wheel spinner and a rubberized cover that repels splashes system and expandable interior (allowing from your cannonball. It’s compatible with up to 25% more packing space) are great, any Bluetooth-enabled device, from iPods and but the 7-year Worldwide Warranty is even iPads to just about any smart phone or tablet, better. Still, we’re sticking with our old pals and even charges your mobile device via USB at Eagle Creek, whose EC ADVENTURE port while it’s kicking out the summer jams.

4-WHEELED UPRIGHT 22 (eaglecreek.

We seem to need new sunglasses every com) is a rugged 4-wheeler that features an summer. Luckily, this year we’ve found a few expandable main compartment, Pack-It system brands that we love. BOLLE (bolle.com) is integration, and add-a-bag versatility options. a favorite among skiers and extreme sports Hopefully, as our travel schedule slows, it’s the athletes for their bold modern styles, polarized last new bag we’ll need for a while…

BY B. LOVE

I

Novak Djokovic

SPORTS

FANATIC A Monthly Sports Wrap-up SOUTHERN NIGHTS!

BEST ADULT VIDEO STORE! Since 1996

BY DEMARCO WILLIAMS

Now that SUPER BOWL XLV is over, football fans can get to the real issue: Will there be a 2011 season? If you let NFL commissioner Roger Goodell tell it, a new collective bargaining agreement is imminent. But listen to others close to the situation and they’ll say it’s not such a sure thing. While officials work out the numbers, Fanatic knows three things that’ll happen, lockout or no lockout: 1) An SEC defender (Auburn’s Nick Fairley or LSU’s Patrick Peterson) will be the No. 1 pick in the Draft; 2) An 18-game season will be approved; 3) Super Bowl XLVI will kick-off as planned on Feb. 5, 2012 in Indianapolis.

For the adult in all of us.

(Blake Griffin, L.A. Clippers); Coach of the Year (Gregg Popovich, San Antonio); Most Improved Player (Kevin Love, Minnesota); Sixth Man of the Year (Jamal Crawford, Atlanta); Most Surprising Team (New Orleans Hornets); Biggest Disappointment (Phoenix Suns).

“He’s a beast. What can you say? Some of the shots he made, I was like, ‘Wow. Did he just make that in my face?’

A player like that, you have to live and die defending him one on one. If he makes big shots, you have to go to the other end and stay poised.” –New Mexico guard Dairese Gary, on JIMMER FREDETTE, BYU star and college’s leading scorer

Over 10,000 DVD’s for Sale & Rent!

“I feel like a better player now than I was three years ago, because I think that physically I’m stronger, faster, mentally I’m more motivated on the court. I know how to react in certain moments, and I know how to play on a big stage.

I have been more focused and dedicated to the sport than ck Up I have ever been before.” -2011 MEN’SPi AUSTRALIAN n ia b y S OPEN WINNER NOVAK DJOKOVICToday!

n For Wome

“When I signed my contract, my main goal was to earn it. Once I started to realize I wasn’t earning my money, I felt bad. I was making a crazy amount of money for not even pitching. Honestly, I didn’t feel like I deserved it. I didn’t want to have those feelings again.” –GIL MECHE, 32, who retired instead of taking a guaranteed $12 million to pitch for Kansas City this season

“St. Louis was fourth in baseball last year in attendance, but only 13th in payroll. In other words the Cardinals have money to burn, and it’s time to light the match. So here’s what you do if you’re St. Louis: Whatever [Albert] Pujols wants, within reason, you give it to him. What’s X Zenreason?

1200 within No idea. TheFle closest shlibaseballt has had to a H e Nlikeow freeeragent this! wasNAlex Rodriguezginh2001, when he o years. inThat Stowas received $252 million for 10w ck$25.2 ! million annually, and that was a decade ago. And Pujols is better.”

–CBS SPORTS’ GREGG DOYEL

Celebrate With Us For A Smokin’

of

62 Channel Hi-Def Video Arcade is

NOW OPEN!

Must-See TV Southern Nights Videos & Gifts

2205 Cheshire Bridge Rd. 404-728-0701 • Open 24/7 www.SNVOnline.com

ahs!

Magic its!

Flight K

Hook

izers!

s!

Puffit

Vapor

TARA MOVIE THEATRE

SOUTHERN NIGHTS

1. We NBA All-Star Game (Feb. 20, 8PM, TNT) don’t know if there will be more celebrities on the hardwood playing or celebrating

Top 5 Games This Month

@SNVAtlanta

SOUTHERN NIGHTS

CHESHIRE BRIDGE

And finally…

Hawaii pays $4 million to host the NFL’s annual Pro Bowl at Aloha Stadium… If early estimates are accurate, Super Bowl XLV should be Stub Hub’s top-selling event ever… At press time, the Cleveland Cavs were in the midst of a 1-29 February, of course, marks the NBA’S halfway point. stretch, the NBA’s worst since 1996… If there’s an NFL work With that landmark also comes Fanatic’s midseason stoppage next season, it’s reported that Las Vegas casinos awards: MVP (Derrick Rose, Chicago); Defensive Player would take an $850 million hit on unplaced betting… A of the Year (Dwight of the Year Accessories We Howard, NOWOrlando); carryRookie Tobacco & Sensuals! record 56 underclassmen declared for the NFL Draft.

WOODLAND

Fan sia E-Cigs &ta MORE!

Have bought a weight loss product courtside atyou L.A.’s Staples Center. the(Feb.last 6 months?

2. Miami during at Boston 13, 1PM, ABC) AsIf much as Chicago Orlando fans hate acknowledging the fact, on this non-prescription is probably your YES, you may and be eligible to take a 5-10 min survey Eastern Conference Finals preview. weight loss product use.

3. Ohio State at Wisconsin, Pittsburgh at Villanova (Feb. 12, 2PM, 9PM, ESPN) The top two teams in the nation go on the road to very, very

The information can be used to help people choose safe and effective weight loss products in the future.

hostile environments.

Are you 18 years of age or older?

4. Daytona 500 (Feb. 20, 12PM, Fox) Gentlemen, start your quest to stop Jimmie Johnson from winning an unprecedented sixth If yes, to take the RESEARCH survey, go to

straight Sprint Cup championship. http://tinyurl.com/cgsvygv or use this QR code:

5. This UNC at Duke (Feb. 9, 9PM, ESPN) big meeting (and another on March 5) goes a long way in deciding North Carolina

SNIP E

& SAV

SAVE

15% OFF

All Pipe & Pipe Accessories!

HURRY IN! Offer Expires: 7/22/13

Questions? Please ask Dr. Sally Huston (706-542-1040, shuston@uga.edu) or bragging and(706-542-1132, the ACC crown. dfranic@uga.edu) from the University of Georgia Dr. Duskarights Franic

BUY • SELL • TRADE

Be Patriotic, Come Shop Erotic!

���������������� ������������� ��������������������

Videos, DVDs Magazines Phone: 404-320-7418 Fax: 404-320-7337

3432 Clairmont Rd.

Adult Movies • Adult Toys • Tobacco Pipes Lubrications • Body Oils • Designer Lingerie Bachelor • Bachelorette Gifts • Fetish Gear PLUS SO MUCH MORE ADULT FUN!

Your Erotic Couples Headquarters 30-50% OFF Select Merchandise!

22 Convenient Locations | 404.766.6993

������������ ������������������

FREE ADULT DVD with any $20 web order:

ShopStarship.com PG insiteatlanta.com 31 • insiteatlanta.com January 2011 • July• 2013 • PG 31

Atlanta’s Favorite Middle Eastern Restaurant

BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER

★

7 days a week…

7am – 10pm!

★

★★★

NOW FEATURING

WATERMELON MIMOSAS!

★

★★

Candler Park 1655 McLendon Ave. 404.687.8888 Midtown 1001 Piedmont Ave. 404.874.8887 www.flyingbiscuit.com • Catering: 404-849-2283

2751 lavista rd • decatur ga 30033 404-633-8833 • www.mezzabistro.com

#1 Chinese Restaurant in Atlanta

ys Monda $1 PBR Drafts $5 Pitchers of Beer Th ys Tuesda Trivia ursda

ys

CHESHIRE BRIDGE

DAILY LUNCH SPECIALS FROM $6 1810 CHESHIRE BRIDGE RD. 404-874-8304

Healthy Vegetarian Items Always Available

3887 PEACHTREE RD • 404-816-2229 • BUCKHEAD/BROOKHAVEN DELIVERY (LIMITED AREA; MIN $10)

WE DELIVER!

CARRY OUT • CATERING • FULL BAR SERVICE

WWW.CHINCHINATLANTA.COM

(after 5 PM)

VOTED BEST IN ATLANTA

The Original

-INsite, Creative Loafing, Fox News, Emory Wheel & Citysearch

Dine In & Carry Out • Catering Available

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

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

Midtown • 404.917.1100 10th and Monroe

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

Zip Line Tours (678) 622-3990 www.lakelaniercanopytours.com

Authentic Middle Eastern and Greek Cuisine Cooked Fresh to Order

7000 Lanier Islands Parkway • Buford, GA 30518

SUMMER BLOWOUT! Locally Blown Glass Best Martial Arts HOOKAHS Starting at $24.95

Hand-blown Bubblers

DETOX PRODUCTS

PIPES

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

SELF

P O S T E R S D E F E N S E C ICGI GA AR RE TS T&E S J EBWOEDLYR Y PRODUCTS

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

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