AUG. 20, 2009 - SEPT. 2, 2009
VELORIO’S VELORIO’S NEW BI-LINGUAL BI-LINGUAL BLAST BLAST NEW HOW H OW TTO O SSURVIVE URVIVE CCOMIC-CON OMIC-CON
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Vive Velorio! Local Latin prog-rockers hit back with strong follow-up - CD party 8/29!
By Matt Muñoz, Bakotopia Editor hange has been good for Velorio. Just a year ago, the Bakersfield quintet was being watched on international TV after winning SiTV’s ‘Jammin’ online band battle, and making it to the finals broadcast. Like most new bands making a big impression early in the career, Velorio took the experience and immediately planned their next moves, - write, tour and record. Where their ‘07 debut EP stuck safely to experimental Latin roots, Velorio’s new offering takes big steps both musically and lyrically. Starting with “Nunca Cambiaras” (Never Change) to “Lights, Camera, Dissastifaction,” a tune that would make Incubus raise a shot glass, to “El Velorio,” (The Wake) harkening memories of Woodstock, this CD will make you light another. Simply titled, “Velorio”, it’s ready to drop on fans, and to celebrate they’re having a big party at Club Odyssey, inside The Doubletree Hotel on Saturday, Aug. 29 at 9 p.m. As the world’s roc en espanol scene seems to be taking a creative siesta by trying to imitate their U.S. idols, Velorio’s music reminds you of why you still wear your old Caifanes T-shirt. You can’t bring back the dead, but you can rest assured that within the armies of bands spinning their wheels - there is hope in the Valle Central. Take that Vive Latino! Bakotopia sat down with the multi-instrumental band that includes: Alvaro Caceres - lead vocals, guitar, trumpet; Ben Gomez - bass, vocals; Eric Powers - keys, vocals; Adrian Nevarez - drums, keys; and Jason Blakely drums, bass, to find about their latest journey. Velorio has gone through some lineup changes since the last time we spoke. How much has it affected your sound and mindset as an artist trying to make it happen? V: Through the addition of Jason and Adrian, who are excellent, trained musicians we have taken our sound to a new musical level. The musicianship and performance aspects are at a place that we’ve never before accomplished and we look forward to everyone experiencing this. How was the recent trip to Chicago? V: The audiences were captivated, everyone enjoyed it. We’re planning another trip back soon. Before one of the shows, and armed with headphones and an iPod, a couple of us walked around and had people listen to the album. Twenty-five people followed us back to the show. We played Fiesta del Sol, a street fair with over a million people in attendance over the course of four days, a private and intimate show atmosphere at Black Gate Studios, and a good old bar show at The Cobra Lounge, a place with 365 days of live music. This trip would not have been possible were it not for our manager Claudia Guerrero with Chicle Atomico. How does it make you feel being a Bakersfield band being watched at times by the whole world? V: It freaks Adrian out. We’ve spent the last 2 1/2 years attempting to make what you say a reality. Jason says, “It’s humbling. We’re flattered that people take the time to hear and really listen to what it is we’re making available. We’ve spent a long time working out parts and perfecting the sound to a point where we’re extremely proud of what has come of it, and are excited to be sharing it with the world.”
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What can fans look forward to with your new CD? V: The sound of Velorio has matured quite a bit from the EP, which was recorded in a garage by three people. The LP is a culmination of five distinct people from different backgrounds conglomerating into a cohesive collaboration of style and taste, recorded in a professional studio in LA. What were some of standout moments recording this record? V: We recorded the album at Veneto West with Ronan “Chris” Murphy, a man with several hundred albums under his belt (Tool, Los Lobos, etc). He’s not just a rock producer; he’s worked on Latin music, pop music, and most notably, world music. While recording, we had several points when we were all recording simultaneously; a percussion party, a shaker party, and a pedal party. Magic was in the air and on the floor. The process of Ronan’s recording made it feel like we were hanging out with friends and having a good time. What do you have in store for the fans on Aug. 29? V: If you enjoy music and like to move your body, this show is where you need to be. We’re very excited to share the stage with Get Up Get Down for their last show in town, with Mento Buru, the pioneers of Latin music in Bakersfield, and The Natural Movement, the sickest hip-hop act in town. Our goal for this release show is to provide a showcase of different genres in town for everyone to see. Any freaky band-bonding rituals? V: We can’t tell you; you must be shown. What are your plans for the rest of the year? V: We’re looking into playing several shows in Baja California; crossing the border is what our music craves. We’ve been talking to several promoters and our manager regarding a west coast tour from Texas to Washington in the spring, the Bay Area and surrounding areas. Latin rock’s earliest traces go back to Santana’s debut at Woodstock 40 years ago this August. If you could go back in a time machine - how do you think Velorio would do at the same festival? V: We would have physically exploded if we played that show with Santana. Woodstock would have been crazy; nearly unfathomable. The people watching probably would have been tripped out. It would have changed our lives; Alvie probably would have been assassinated, Ben would have gone into a coma, only to wake up in the 80s saying “what happened to music?” Adrian would have sold the script of “Ghostbusters,” making him an instant millionaire, Eric would have bet one of his friends he could start a religion, write a book and now have movie stars following him, and Jason would be in a movie with Jamie Foxx. Would you try the infamous “brown acid” they warned people not to take at Woodstock? V: Wouldn’t you? On the web: www.veloriomusic.com Velorio CD Release Party! w/Mento Buru, The Natural Movement, Get Up Get Down -Aug. 29th -Club Odyssey @ The Doubletree - 3100 Camino Del Rio Court 93308 -9 p.m. / $10 / 21+ / Info & Pre-Sale Tix: 472-8378
BAKOTOPIA STAFF EDITORIAL Olivia Garcia VP/Content ogarcia@bakersfield.com 395-7487 Matt Muñoz Editor/Product Manager mmunoz@bakersfield.com 395-7660 Gene Garaygordobil Managing Editor garaygordobil@bakersfield.com Teresa Adamo Associate Editor tadamo@bakersfield.com
ART Matt Jones Designer mattjones@bakersfield.com
ADVERTISING Jaime De Los Santos Sales Manager jdelossantos@bakersfield.com 716-8632 Gustavo Carrillo Sales Executive Mark Wells Sales Executive
OFFICE Marisol Sorto Office Administrator msorto@bakersfield.com 716-8640
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E D I TO R ’ S N OT E hen was the last time you sat down and had an actual unforced, face to face, conversation? With all the cellphones, smartphones, Twittering, etc. ... Real human interaction is slowly getting fazed out. Sad, but truly the effect of too much technology. Our cover gal and spoken-word artist, Ginn Williams, is all about making her voice heard and not afraid to use it to get your attention. I met Ginn for the first time at a Refresh Rhyme Scheme spoken-word night at Sandrini’s not long ago. She stepped onstage commanding attention with a newly published book of poetry called, “Epic.” She smiled, then launched into a piece titled, “You’s a Fat B***h!” - a poem about being big, beautiful, and proud. She killed it that night! She believes in her work and was cool enough to come to our “Bakotopia Magazine 1-year Anniversary Party” back in ‘08 and perform. She took over the party, and continues to blaze stages to this day. Bakotopia is proud to help introduce her to those in and out of the underground, along with all the talented local poets who will be appearing at the “Two Hours Inside” event happening at The Basement on Sept. 4. Read about it on pg. 8 and be there, yo! Thanks to this issue’s contributors and advertisers for making Bakotopia bump at all times. Birthday shout to my wonderful son, Mark “Blitz” Munoz. Peace,
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August 20, 2009
Reachin’ Out! The KRAB morning krew has some fun in the mountains and tries to help out locals in need.
Above: Meathead (seated center,) and Miranda (standing directly above,) get a visit by the Bakersfield Diamond Divas roller derby team on 8/7.
By Miranda / KRAB Bakotopia.com contributor t’s 9 a.m. in Frazier Park. The sun is shining, the birds are chirping and I find myself perched precariously on the back of a hot rod convertible attempting to keep my balance while throwing fistfuls of candy to children on the street. Meathead sits next to me with his little dog in his little shoulder bag while Francis rides along behind on his bicycle wearing a KRAB hoodie despite the 85 degree heat. Question: Does “Grand Marshaling” a parade in a tiny mountain town sound like the everyday comings and goings of a rock n’ roll deejay? If you said no, rethink you answer. When it comes to the KRAB lifestyle, the staff and our listeners tend to be living more and more outside of the big shiny box. It was a real honor for the KRAB Morning Show to make an appearance at Frazier Park’s Fiesta Days Parade this Saturday, Aug. 1. It gave us the chance to see what KRAB listeners look like when exposed to higher elevations and to breath air not unhealthy for sensitive
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groups. But in reality, the whole experience allowed the three of us to see that the face of the rock listener and the job we do behind the mic is always evolving. Between the music and the jokes, Bakersfield’s local scene shines through in ways you would not expect. Much to the delight of Meathead and Francis, we were hit with a tornado of fierce fabulousness recently when the Bakersfield Diamond Divas roller derby team stormed onto the show on Friday, Aug. 7. Adorned in fishnets, short skirts and platform shoes, the ladies of the local roller derby scene showed us what it’s
really like to fight tooth and nail for the glory of victory. As “Dutch Dynamite, Inner League Liaison” told us, “the bruises and sprained ankles are real.” On the flip, we were approached by another set of very determined women who were fighting tooth and nail for a different cause - helping disabled kids attend summer camp. Due to state cutbacks, The Society for Disabled Children’s Camp Blue Jay, in Tehachapi, needed nurses to volunteer their time and expertise so the camp could go on. While we all secretly wondered if an appearance on our morning show would help the effort, we invited the Camp Blue Jay staff in to give it a shot. The word was spread, nurses were found, and we realized the generosity of our listeners far exceeded our expectations. When push comes to shove, the dedication of the fans of KRAB has caused us to step up our game. Whether it’s exposing the land to the fearless Diamond Divas or using our powers of radio for just plain old good, not evil. Here’s to Bakersfield wayward, wild and wonderful. There will be more of it to come courtesy of KRAB! Listen for Matt from Bakotopia on the KRAB morning show every issue drop date. Next appearance: Sept. 3! WWW.KRAB.COM
Above: Camp Blue Jay campers chillin’ in the great outdoors.
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August 20, 2009
Help Shorty! Get your car washed and give to a great cause on 8/22! By Cory Jenkins Bakotopia.com contributor he Firehouse, 7701 White Ln., will be the sight of a specially taped episode of the reality TV show, “Shorty’s Rescue” on Saturday, Aug. 22, from 11 a.m.3 p.m. Luigi Rossi (AKA Shorty) is a “little person” talent agent and owner of Shortywood Productions, living in Los Angeles. Shorty’s passion and love for pit bulls, an often neglected and abused breed of dog, has led to the creation of Shorty’s Rescue, a nonprofit organization. As an organization, Shorty’s Rescue - “Envisions Above from left: Pro skater Chris a compassionate world where pit Hamilton, Shorty, and Hercules. bulls reside in responsible, loving homes and where their honor and positive image is restored and preserved.” The reality series of the same name will follow Luigi Rossi and other volunteers of the organization and document their efforts as they strive to make the world a better place for neglected pit bulls and canines in general. The local Alpha Canine Society will have up to 10 dogs at the event that will be up for adoption. Actress Linda Blair (The Exorcist), will also be at the event to create awareness for her charity, The Linda Blair WorldHeart Foundation. Don’t forget the little person carwash and carshow! Shorty and other little person volunteers of his organization will be washing cars to raise money for Shorty’s Rescue Foundation. Price for the car wash is $10 . The carshow will feature a wide variety of custom vehicles from throughout California including several from Bako’s own Nokturnal car club.
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On the web: www.shortysrescue.com www.lindablairworldheart.org
Trout’s Nightclub ~ 7 days a week (399-6700) 805 n. chester ave.
lone oak lounge ~ Tue. & thur. 8pm - 1am 10612 rosedale hwy.
le corusse rouge ~ Tue. 8pm - midnight 4647 white lane
the wright place ~ Thur. 8pm - midnight 2695-c mount vernon
nikki’s smokin bbq ~ Thur. 8pm - 12am 1616 30th st.
rockstarz ~ wed. 8pm - 2am
7737 meany st,
B-Ryders Sun. 8-12 - Esquire Lounge Sat. 8-1 7401 White Ln. 2507 S. Chester Ave.
661-343-5602 BAKOTOPIA 5
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August 20, 2009
How to get your stuff in Bakotopia Magazine Follow these steps and you are in - it’s so easy! Best local promotion in town! By Matt Munoz Bakotopia Editor
Follow these steps and you are in, it’s so easy! YOU BECOME THE MEDIA! The web is buzzing with good stories and blogs about everyday life in Bakersfield and the surrounding areas, and readers want you to share! 1) Get your ideas together: a story, event, photos, band, show, food review ANYTHING FLOATING AROUND YOUR MIND & COMMUNITY IS COOL! 2) Start writing to your heart’s content! 3) 400-500 words will do, but if you’re on a roll, keep writing, or if it’s short and sweet, go ahead and submit it online or via e-mail! 4) Don’t worry about being the best writer out there - we’ll help you with editing. 5) Make sure to include a high-res photo or graphic to accompany your piece. If you don't have one, we'll find one for you!
Helpful tips... Get your stuff in before deadlines so we can make adjustments, if necessary! Events posted on www.bakotopia.com get priority placement in the print calendar! Sign-up for your free profile at www.bakotopia.com, to get regular e-blasts about upcoming happenings, news flashes, contests, and more to stay in the loop! 10,000-print readers, over 7,000+ registered web users, 100,000+ monthly
web views can’t be wrong! Wanna advertise with Bako? Best rates in town, call: 661-716-8640 If you have any ideas or feedback, or need some help with story development, give me a shout anytime! YOUR SUPPORT IS APPRECIATED!
UPCOMING PRINT DEADLINES / FOR ISSUE RUN DATES:
9/02............................................. 9/16........................................... 9/30............................................. 10/14 .......................................... 10/28........................................... 11/11 ....................................... 11/23 ....................................... 12/9 .......................................
ISSUE 63 (9/17 - 9/30) ISSUE 64 (10/1 - 10/14) ISSUE 65 (10/15 - 10/28) ISSUE 66 (10/29 - 11/11) ISSUE 67 (11/12 - 11/25) ISSUE 68 (11/26 - 12/9) ISSUE 69 (12/10 - 12/23) ISSUE 70 (12/24 - 1/6/10)
If you have any ideas or feedback, or need some help with story development, give me a shout anytime! matt@bakotopia.com WWW.BAKOTOPIA.COM
The Penny’s Personal PA Plea Local artists become activists for the sake of local arts community - join them on Aug.28. By The Penny Royalties, Bakotopia.com contributor our senses are waiting to be stimulated, and the electricity in your mind is waiting to be turned on. We are ready to flip the switch for you at the PA fundraiser “Revolution Festival” happening at The Basement Gallery, 1532 18th St., on August 28, from 4 p.m.-midnight. The festival lineup will include: The Penny Royalties, Backup Johnny, Vanity Avenue, Sell Yourself, Russians With Rayguns, Leksure, The Action Index, Molly Hartley, Sideways, and more to be announced. Each band will be playing 30 minute sets. The all-ages show is only $5, and all monies raised will go towards the purchase of a new, much needed, PA system for the gallery. The “Nameless Crew” will also be featuring some art work and live painting as bands play. Art isn’t just a painting or a picture. Sounds make your senses go haywire. A song can remind you of childhood memories or great people or how you felt at one time or the other. Music is just as powerful as the art we look at, but, if there is no PA system at The Basement to bring great music to your own town, then we’re going to be stuck in the same routine, listening to the same bands over and over again and going to the same places to see music over and over again. The Penny Royalties are teaming up with gallery owner Deon Bell to help bring something new to Bakersfield. Allow me to kick some philosophy … People want change and people want something real. If you look at a painting you see the exterior of an artist’s inner self. Listen to a song, and you’re looking within a musician’s inner self.
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Everyone can be an artist and we want The Basement to help bring that out of everyone. We need change and culture here in Bakersfield - something to bring the people together and The Basement is a place to do it. Come out and check out the “Revolution Festival” on Aug, 28.
Above: The Penny Royalties live at The Basement on July 11. PHOTO BY DAVID KARNOWSKI
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August 20, 2009
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X Games 15 Motocross Madness Fan Review: Bakotopia contest winner shares some of her experience at this year’s fest! By Melissa O’Neal Bakotopia.com contributor owhere in the world is there such a spectacle of motocross madness as at X Games 15, in SoCal. The world’s best of the best on two wheels convene to show off what they spend their lives practicing for: an awesome display of death-defying tricks, some of which challenge the laws of physics and question the very fiber of the human fabric.
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Above and top of page: X Games 15 views from stands on 8/1.
On Aug. 1, The Home Depot Center main arena was transformed into an intricately groomed dirt track used in both the Supermoto and Freestyle motocross events. For nearly 12 hours, the best of the best from around the world performed and competed while the audience was held in a state of awe. The men’s Supermoto competition was an intense, high-speed race around the whoops, hairpin turns, and jumps of the well-planned dirt track filling the entire arena floor. Ivan Lazzarini, an extremely talented Italian rider, dominated the track and took gold by a long shot. He was followed up by USA’s Mark Burkhart and Frenchman Adrian Chareyre. In the first-ever women’s Supermoto competition at X Games, some very talented female riders showed equal skill and speed to the men. Ashley Fiolek, 18, became the inaugural women’s gold medalist in X-Games history after a slow start and an astonishing comeback, leading Jessica Patterson and Elizabeth Bash. In men’s Supercross, the USA dominated all three top medals, with Josh Hansen taking gold, Justin Brayton with silver, and Kevin Windham with bronze. The freestyle competition, which incorporates freestyle ramps into the existent supercross track
to accomplish a vast array of mind-blowing tricks such as the Lazy Boy, Stripper, Superman Seat Grab, and Heart Attack, wowed the crowd. After an awesome display by all of the top athletes, dedicated to their late Metal Mulitia brother Jeremy Lusk who passed on in a motocross accident in February, the results were determined through a difficult judging process. Australian rider Blake Williams edged Jeremy “Twitch” Steinberg to claim the gold medal by one point, all the while riding a fourstroke dirtbike in the twostroke dominated freestyle motocross discipline. Nate Adams earned the bronze medal. Thanks for the tickets Bakotopia! I had a blast! Stay tuned for more contests and fun at: www.bakotopia.com At right: Author, fotog, and X Games 15 fan, Melissa O’Neal.
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August 20, 2009
Pictured from left: Evan Ross, Ebone King, Ginn Williams, Aaron Ashe, Christina Varvel. PHOTOS BY TODD POWERS / ADDITIONAL COVER GRAPHIC ART BY IAN YOUNG.
Word Up! Bakersfield’s best poetry slammers step into the spotlight at “Two Hours Inside,” on Sept. 4 at The Basement!
By Jen Raven, Bakotopia.com Contributor hen she takes the stage, she commands the attention of every listener in the room, by the force of her will ... and her words. She pulls no punches, takes no prisoners, and recently, when she told the members of Bakersfield’s spoken word community that it was time to “jump,” she was met with a loud chorus of, “How high?” This is Ginn Williams; published author, performance poet, and Queen of Quite A Lot ... especially when it comes to the world of words. Her latest project, “Two Hours Inside,” will take the local arts scene by storm this September, drawing on the creative talents of Bakersfield’s best spokenword artists. Ginn Williams “ ... Tell me you’re/morally challenged/intellectually insufficient/a disrespectful/disoriented/delusional/conscience absent/certified/space cadet ... But don’t tell me you’re a man.” Anyone who’s witnessed Ginn perform would
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be surprised to discover that Ginn has a shy side, but it’s true. “It’s been a personal goal for myself, to get over my fear of small groups. I prefer to get lost in the crowd ... I loved the crowd at the Bakotopia One-Year Anniversary party.” Why so shy? “For me, writing and performing are extremely personal. I’m more comfortable telling my business to the crowd, because I feel like I can be 100 percent honest and not worry about being judged. I think that’s also the reason my work is so raw, and to the point; I don’t bother trying to hide things.” Ginn has been adamant about separating her personal life from her work. “People who are close to poets might be uncomfortable with such personal information being made public, on the page, or from the stage. I think that’s why so many of us keep it to
ourselves or only share that part of us with other writers.” Ginn means to take spoken word in Bakersfield to a higher plane ... and a more public one. Inspired by the work of Christina Varvel of Refresh Rhyme Scheme, Ginn set out to create “Two Hours Inside.” The group of hand-picked local poets will share their works, and also share the personal stories behind them, in this special event coming to The Basement Gallery, 1532 19th St., on Sept. 4 at 7pm. But it’s not just about getting more personal. “With this event, I want to introduce Bakersfield to its next round of spoken-word artists. These are talented people, and they have a lot to offer their arts community.” Christina Varvel “I demand unconditional love and complete
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freedom. That is why I am terrible.” If you’re active at all in the local performancepoetry scene, chances are you’ve run into Christina Varvel. Creator of Bakersfield’s own “Refresh Rhyme Scheme,” Christina is passionate about honesty and communication - two things you can find in abundance at her spoken-word events. “I feel very strongly about listening to other people,” Christina tells me. “So often, people get frustrated because they feel no one is truly listening ... and there are so many different kinds of communicating. Listening is a way of honoring one another.” When onstage, Christina tells me, poets give us a peek into their personal worlds. “When they perform, they are completely honest and naked in their communication, and we completely connect on that level for a moment ... it’s amazing to experience.” Christina believes that such honest, personal communication is also good for the community. “If you don’t openly engage with people from diverse backgrounds, you miss out on a lot of really beautiful things,” she says. “We should never stop learning, growing, or listening ... everyone has something to teach us.” Of the upcoming “Two Hours Inside” event, Christina says. “This is an epic opportunity for poets in Bakersfield to get themselves out there, and I’m extremely honored that I’ve been asked to be a part of it.” Ebone King “This is the birth of the Femme Leo ... The Hiroshima lioness.” When it comes to writing poetry, Ebone King believes that “a poem is a captured moment. If you don’t seize that moment, you will never write that poem in any other time; you are taking hold of the emotional outpouring, no matter what it is.” A relative newcomer to the spoken word, Ebone “Loved it ... the first time I attended a Refresh event. I felt like, this is where I belong! I’ve found my people! I felt like I was home ... and I’m ecstatic to be a part of this movement.” Before Refresh, Ebone worked briefly with a rap group called “Lyfe,” but for the most part she was on her own. “I always say I’m roaring, because I’m a Leo,” Ebone tells me. “I tap into the adrenaline (when I perform) and it helps the poems to just roar out.”
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One of her recent works, “Hiroshima Lioness” deals with coming into her own, as a poet. “The poem follows me on this journey of me growing into my adult lion and letting out my feline roar ... and realizing just what it is I’m here for. I’m very excited, and looking forward to the upcoming show!” Aaron Ashe “Where prisons are not over-crowded but book shelves at the local library are. Where a brighter future is not so far and OUR community really means it’s OURS.” As a musician, writing has always been a part of Aaron’s life. “Some of my writing makes it into music, and some remains poetry. “It’s all very intertwined,” Aaron tells me. “Poetry has always been so infused in the music I create.” Not only a musician and poet, but a painter and a teacher as well, Aaron draws his inspiration from the events of everyday life, and he encourages his students not to take them for granted - especially when it comes to the events in our arts scene. “This town has a lot to offer, but people miss out because they’re not informed, or because they’re not willing to try new things. The more you experience the world, the better chance you have of finding what it is you want to do with your life ... of discovering new gifts you might not have known you had.” Of Refresh, Aaron says a lot of positive things have already come about, as a result of the events. “Our town needs this. Every town needs this! Spoken word is an amazing art form, when done well. Every time, I feel a responsibility to bring that level of intensity to my performances, so people can appreciate the art form more than they did when they walked in the door.” Of the upcoming “Two Hours Inside,” Aaron is thrilled to be involved. “I always try to do my best, onstage, and it’s nice to get recognition for that. I’m absolutely looking forward to the show; you don’t often get an opportunity in Bakersfield to experience something like this.” Evan Ross “I’m begging you to untie this knot in my stomach/Because it’s become so hard to sleep/Without grinding your name into my enamel for the world to hear.” Evan became acquainted with Ginn at her book signing, when “Epic” first hit the shelves. Impressed by her book, he contacted Ginn online, and became involved with Refresh Rhyme Scheme soon after. “I felt very welcomed,” Evan said, of Refresh. “Before that, I didn’t know anyone else involved in spoken word, and it was nice to meet people who enjoyed it as much as I did.” Evan feels he’s already grown a great deal, as a poet, in the few years since he’s joined spoken word in Bakersfield. “There’s something about performing onstage, in front of friends and strangers, that is very cleansing; I feel a lot more comfortable with myself as a result. I believe I’ll be doing this for the rest of my
life, whether I make a career out of it or not.” As far as the “Two Hours Inside” event goes, Evan said he felt “apprehensive at first, since this show is on such a grand scale. But I love performing, so I’m really looking forward to it.” “I think this event will do great things for the community, as far as spoken word is concerned,” Evan says. “Up until now, performance poetry has been mostly underground here in Bakersfield; but this event is going to bring it to the public.” “Two Hours Inside” is Sept. 4 and features performances from the best of Bakersfield’s spoken word artists, including Ginn Williams, Jen Raven, Aaron Ashe, Ebone King, Julie Jordan-Scott, and Evan Ross. Gourmet refreshments will be provided by Chef Tye Bell. Admission: $10. Doors open at 6:30 pm. Show runs from 7 to 9:30 p.m. Doors close at 7p.m. Sharp, no exceptions. The Basement Gallery, 1532 19th and Eye St. For more info, visit: www.myspace.com/twohoursinside
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AGENDA WHAT’S ON IT B
= Highly recommended
AUGUST 20 Karaoke (Every Thurs. & Sun.) The Belvedere 3090 Brundage Ln. 9 p.m. / 21+ / 3252139 The Trading Company Sandrini’s 1918 Eye St. 9 p.m. / 21+ Reggae Thursday’s w/ Dub Seeds (every Thurs.) Camino Real Restaurant 3500 Truxtun Ave. 8 p.m. / 21+ / 8520493
AUGUST 21
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Golden Bough - LIVE! Mama Hillybeans 426 E. Tehachapi Blvd. Tehachapi, CA. 7 p.m. / $12 - $15 / 822-BEAN “Dangerous Hours” Dave Matthews Tribute BRyder’s, 7401 White Ln. /9 p.m. 21+ / 397-7304 Just Dave Band - LIVE! Fishlips, 1517 18th St. 9 p.m. / 21+ / 3242557 “The Player’s Ball” w/ Too Short - LIVE! The Nile Bar, 1721 19th 8 p.m. / 21+ / $30 322-5200 www.vallitix.com
The Afterparty - LIVE! Sandrini’s, 1918 Eye St. 9 p.m. / 21+ Diver Down Cactus Valley 4215 Rosedale Hwy. 9 p.m. / 21+ / 6331948
AUGUST 22
Diminished Capacity Fishlips, 1517 18th St. 9 p.m. / 21+ / 3242557
AUGUST 23
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NL Belardes’ “Random Obsessions” Book Release Bash! Borders Books 4980 Stockdale Hwy. 2 p.m. / 328-9800 Then…the afterparty! Mento Buru - LIVE! “15 Crucial Traxx” CD Release Party! w/ DJ Mikey y que! BRyder’s, 7401 White Ln. 9 p.m. / 21+ / $5 397-7304
Chrisanova’s Beatles Tribute & Tribute Sandrini’s, 1918 Eye St. 10 p.m. / 21+
VANS Warped Tour w/ NOFX, Millionaires, Jeffree Star, and MORE! Home Depot Center 18400 Avalon Boulevard Carson, CA 11 a.m. / All Ages / $33 www.ticketmaster.com
AUGUST 24 Defektors & Sex Church w/ Processors, Phallic Youth The Basement Gallery 1532 19th St. 7 p.m. / $5 / All Ages Alisa’s Karaoke Nation (Every Mon.) Riley’s Tavern 1523 19th St. 9 p.m. / 21+ / 3243268
AUGUST 25
Mac Attack’s Karaoke (Every Tues., Wed., Fri.) The Junction 2620 Buck Owens Blvd. 8 p.m. / 21+ Phonecalls, Peace w/ Definitions, Anna Baker Metro Galleries 1604 19th St. 7 p.m. / $5 / All Ages
AUGUST 27 Mento Buru - LIVE! “Concerts by The Fountain - Grand Finale” The Marketplace 9000 Ming Ave. 7 p.m. / FREE / All Ages Les Dudek - LIVE! Fishlips, 1517 18th St. 8 p.m. / $23 / 21+ www.vallitix.com
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Cage The Elephant BRyder’s, 7401 White Ln 7 p.m. / $10 / All Ages timgardeapresents.com
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Month 00, 2009
SPOTLIGHT SATURDAY, AUGUST 29 VELORIO’S CD PARTY! w/ Mento Buru, Get Up Get Down, The Natural Movement -Club Odyssey / The Doubletree -3100 Camino Del Rio Court -9 p.m. / 21+ /$10 admission -Info: 472-8378 Purple Rhinestone Eagle, Ovarian Cysters Order of File & Claw, S**t Haps.. The Basement Gallery 1532 19th St. 7 p.m. / $5 / All Ages Caspian Hat Dance Sandrini’s, 1918 Eye St. 9 p.m. / 21+ Fatt Katt & The Von Zippers The Crystal Palace 2800 Buck Owens Blvd. 7:30 p.m. / Free / 328-7560
AUGUST 28 Backup Johnny Fishlips, 1517 18th St. 9 p.m. / $5 / 21+
The Councilmen & Guests Sandrini’s, 1918 Eye St. 10 p.m. / 21+ Jill Knight & Mare Wakefield Mama Hillybeans 426 E. Tehachapi Blvd. Tehachapi, CA. 7 p.m. / $12 - $15 / 822-BEAN “An Evening of Magic” w/ Ron Saylor & Christopher Lopez BC Indoor Theatre 1801 Panorama Dr. 7 p.m. / $20 / 872-3699 Catch 22 - LIVE! The Lone Oak 10612 Rosedale Hwy 9 p.m. / 21+ / 589-0412
AKA (also Sat.) Belvedere, 3090 Brundage Ln. 9 p.m. / 21+ / 325-2139
AUGUST 29
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“Rhythm Wars” 2 on 2 B-Boy Battle! Breakdancing Competition and Hip-Hop festival! $1,000 grand prize! Live music by Lethal Lungs & more! The Dome, 2201 V St. 5 p.m. / All Ages $20 - $25 myspace.com/nonstopbboyent
B Foundation w/Dub Seeds Fishlips, 1517 18th St. 9 p.m. / 21+ / 324-2557
AUGUST 30 Ministry of Love w/ Broken End Stereo Jerry’s Pizza 1817 Chester Ave. 6 p.m. / $10 / All Ages www.timgardeapresents.com
SEPT 2 HAPPY B-DAY MARK MUNOZ!
“Damage Inc.” A Metallica Tribute BRyder’s, 7401 White Ln. /9 p.m. 21+ / 397-7304 Myopus - LIVE! Sandrini’s, 1918 Eye St. 9 p.m. / 21+
NL Belardes’ “Random Obsessions” Book Signing Barnes & Noble 4001 California Avenue 2 p.m. / 631-2575
SEPT 4
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MAS MAGAZINE & METRO GALLERIES Present “Latination” Latin Art Show w/ Live music, food, and film! Metro Galleries 1604 19th St. 6 p.m. / Call: 634-9598 TWITTER.COM/BAKOTOPIA DON’T DRINK & DRIVE!
LIVE DJ
WEDN ESD THRU AY SATUR DAY
BAKOTOPIA 11
BAKOBIT from Bakotopia.com
August 20, 2009
SDFan dude Comic-Con 2009 review: Find out what you missed - and what you better not next year!
Above: Wolverine (center,) and his ladies take over Comic-Con. PHOTOS BY TATIANA GARASA By Cesareo Garasa Bakotopia.com contributor he San Diego Comic-Con has been supplying comic book fans with their nourishment for over forty years. It is essentially “nerd-vana” for anyone who loves anything geek-centric. I’m talking about comic books, video games, genre movies (horror, fantasy sci-fi, I’m looking at you!) Japanese Anime and all manner of toys. I’ve been to small conventions before (in the 80’s in Palmdale and Bakersfield) but those were nothing to prepare me for the Leviathan spectacle of what was the San Diego Comic-Con, July 23-26. To give you an idea, I will refer to it furthermore as just Comic-Con. I’ve been to big conventions before, specifically NAMM (which was written in Bakotopia magazine earlier in the year by good old ‘JR’ at Bakotopia.com) where tens of thousands of freaky musicians gather to see all the shiny new gear that they can’t afford. Nay, folks. Comic-Con is where over 130,000 people gather to fawn over all things fandom. I guess it would be fawn-dom. I’ve been reading comics since the late seventies and have been an avid collector since the beginning of the ‘80s. I was aware of the ComicCon but just never got around to it, like talking about a vacation that never happens because life always gets in the way. Comic-Con was just Comic-con until around 2000 when Hollywood found out that fanboys ( the typical name to describe us) are the ultimate test group for their movies. Remember, comic book movies died in the mid-90s with Batman and Robin, a movie so atrocious that it killed off an entire genre of movies. Once X-Men became a success, the suits went and bought any and all comic book properties they could put their hands on. The same thing is happening with video games now. A movie that generates buzz at Comic-Con will open big. Guaranteed. Every year all the movie
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companies pimp out their upcoming movies by having the film’s main cast and crew in a panel and introduce new footage in Hall H (a huge hall with four massive plasma screens that seats 6500 people yet always fills up) where attendees can also ask questions to the stars and filmmakers. For example: this year had panels for “New Moon,” “Avatar,” and “Iron Man 1” among many many others. “New Moon” in particular had people waiting in line for two days before the ComicCon even started. This has inspired a new breed of geek - the Holly-nerd. A Holly-nerd is a nerd that instead of showing his authority by reciting facts and figures based on fandom knowledge, tries to assume it by name dropping celebrities and agencies. Kinda like this … Old School Nerd: “I think that the only Daredevil worth reading is the Frank Miller run. All else is garbage.” New School Nerd: “My good friend over at William Morris said that Frank - You know...Frank Miller? - he said that Frank just signed up to make a new movie for Fox.” The con has two levels: an upstairs and downstairs. The downstairs is just a massive hall with booths from different companies. The upstairs has many halls with different programs happening every hour. To the east of the main hall is the aforementioned ‘Hall H’ that has the BIG movies. The smaller halls upstairs have TV shows, anime and panels on actual comic books! You can meet up-coming artists and creators and get original art at “artist alley.” You will see the best costumes. Have you ever overheard a conversation where someone’s talking about a movie you love and you can’t help but include yourself into the discussion? Not only are you included but welcome. That’s almost everyone there. Everyone’s polite (most us geeks are) and
welcome company. Now, it’s not all great - the food is incredibly expensive and walking through a big crowd is never fun. I would recommend brown bagging it if you decide to go. You’re allowed a backpack but nothing that has wheels. Also, a few things for anyone that wants to go: 1. Get a 4-day pass NOW: It will sell out from now on. Get your passes MANY months in advance. Like, now. Remember, this is now a Hollywood thing and they are on their s**t boys and girls. 2. Attend preview night: For those that get a four day pass (Thu-Sun) you get an invite to Wednesday preview night. Trust me, get your badge on that night instead of having to wait in line on Thursday morning with (literally) 1,000 other people in line. 3. (BYOF) Bring Your Own Food: See above. 4. Have a place to stay with free parking and stay there: Parking on Thursday? $10. Saturday? $30-$40, if you’re lucky. Trust me - sleep in your car if you have to. Unscented baby wipes ROCK! 5. Get the program and decide where to go: It’s like Disneyland. If the program is at 3 p.m., get there at 2 p.m. at the latest. There’s so much to do that you must choose. Don’t take it for granted that you will get into where you want to go. If you see a line, brave it. Once the doors close then it’s back to being a con zombie. 6. Bring money: San Diego is fun but will always take its toll one way or another. 7. Buy your passes now at comiccon.net: They will be sold out. Also, sunscreen, vitamins, talcum powder (don’t chafe!) a backpack/bag and a CAMERA are gospel. They give a lot of stuff away. Go with an open mind, a few bucks and a game plan and all will be well. Remember: If you’re there for the comic books then you’ll have ample opportunity to wet your whistle on one of the most amazing art forms in the world. If you’re there for the movies, then get in line as soon as you can to ‘Hall H.’ They don’t kick anyone out, so if you want to catch something at 3 p.m., get there as early as possible.
comic-con.org
BAKOBIT from Bakotopia.com
August 20, 2009
Fan Review: Rock The Bells ‘09 Is hip-hop’s biggest annual pow-wow getting too big for its britches? Once the underdog, Rock The Bells is now in competition with other mainstream music festivals. Who knows what might happen next year? If you’re missing the original Rock The Bells vibe, check out next year’s Paid Dues Festival. Don’t forget to support true hip-hop music and preserve the culture. Peace to all my B Boys & B Girls. For live photos from RTB ‘09, visit: www.bakotopia.com/seen www.guerillaunion.com/rockthebells www.guerillaunion.com/paiddues
Above: La Coka Nostra represent to the fullest at RTB on 8/8. PHOTO BY DJ MIKEY
By Tai*ga Style Bakotopia.com contributor red carpet, a VIP lounge, and $16 frozen margaritas. Sounds like the latest nightclub hot spot, right? Actually, these amenities could be found at Guerrilla Union’s famous Rock The Bells hip-hop fest on Aug. 8. Unfortunately, the show that brought together hip-hop royalty and underground emcees, to the city of San Bernardino, CA seems to be on holiday. In its place - an over-priced commercialized spectacle - at least in this writer’s eyes. If you’re a RTB regular like myself, you remember standing in the scorching San Bernardino sun until your feet got numb and your skin bright red. You’ll also remember drinking the overpriced water to keep cool, or passing out from heat exhaustion like I did once (good times.) And if you’re a hard core hiphop head, you remember going into the “concert pit of no return.” I call it that because if you went in, chances are you would be without food, water, and more importantly a restroom for hours. Getting out was close to impossible, BUT it was all worth seeing a good show, meeting new people with the same love of music, and having the bragging rights when you got home. This year’s show was held at The San Manuel Amphitheatre, in Devore, (same venue as last, different name). I had no complaints of the venue itself. It was clean, and the surrounding hills and lake was a nice change from the original NOS Fairgrounds from the show’s original years. But watching a majority of fans stuck in segregated seating for an event like this was a disappointment, especially those sitting in their own private VIP booth, equipped with servers, food menus. Fans with “lawn seating” had no access inside the amphitheatre or the main stage; only the vendor area and the “Paid Dues” side stage. Long gone are the days where you had to earn your place in the pit. Now, a pink wrist band with the words “ENTER PIT AT YOUR OWN RISK” allowed fans to be where they longed to be, front and center. Despite the noticeable changes, The Bells continued its tradition of showcasing hip-hop pioneers, this year being no exception. House of Pain bandmates Danny Boi, Everlast, and DJ Lethal joined forces with Slain and Non Phixion’s Ill Bill as the super crew La Coka Nostra performing new cuts from they’re new album “A Brand You Can Trust” as well as ‘90s classics “Jump Around” and “Who’s the Man?” The iconic Slick Rick, served as the very special guest, as he blessed fans with his timeless classics. Busta Rhymes gave us a short medley of his club hits, but it was the legendary Roots crew that stole the show with their funky rendition of classics “Seed 2.0” and my favorite “You Got Me”. Rock The Bells has certainly changed over the past few years, raising a level of hip-hop recognition that creator Chang Weisburg might not have expected.
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BAKOBIT from Bakotopia.com
August 20, 2009
SEEN ON
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Bakotopia.com/seen
See more photos at:
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2009 Lowrider Nationals, with New Boyz, Fluid and more, August 9 at KC Fairgrounds PHOTOS BY MATT MUNOZ
BAKOTOPIA 14
BAKOBIT from Bakotopia.com
August 20, 2009
Above from left, Automatic Redial’s - Matt Bledsoe, Gary Taylor, Sean Weimer, Andrew Bledsoe, and David Bledsoe.
COURTESY PHOTO
Automatic Redial Starting over has never sounded so good for this local quintet. By Sean Weimer, Bakotopia.com contributor ormed in Bakersfield in 2005, Automatic Redial has played at a series of local venues, and out of town venues - including the Whiskey a-Go-Go in Hollywood. AR have shared the stage with many popular bands including: Wheatus, Bayside, Death By Stereo, and Vogue in the Movement. The highlight of their career so far happened when they won the 2008 “Tim Gardea Presents: Battle of the Bands” at Golden State Mall. The grand prize from this event enabled them to record their first full-length album, “One More Disaster,” which was released in June, 2008. Their second album is currently in the works with the expertise of their audio consultant, Nick Forcillo from Jesus Shack studios, and will feature their new single, “Lost Child.” Automatic Redial represents a broad range of musical varieties and influences. As it is diffi-
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cult to identify their sound with one specific genre, an accurate description of their music would be progressive rock/hardcore, with influences including Atreyu and Killswitch Engage. A few years after their inception, the band decided to go on an eight month hiatus to refocus their style, goals, including eliminating all of their previously written material. With the acquisition of their current vocalist, Gary Taylor, they got exactly what they wanted in order to obtain their desired sound. Gary had no previous experience with music that required screaming vocals and lyrics that required a more progressive style of singing, but it soon clicked. Other band members include a trio of brothers: Matt Bledsoe - lead guitar, David Bledsoe rhythm guitar, and Andrew Bledsoe - bass guitar, and myself, Sean Weimer - drums. The various influences provided by each band member give Automatic Redial what they
would call the “perfect blend and combination of unique musical contributions and styles.” AR would like to say thanks to Blake and Debbie Bledsoe, and current roadie and close friend, Kasey Talhelm, for their continued support and motivation. Throughout the next few months, the band will continue their studio sessions, working towards the completion of their second album, along with continuing to promote it by playing shows at local venues. You can catch Automatic Redial live on Sept. 7, with A Skylit Drive, at Jerry’s Pizza, 1817 Chester Ave., at 6:30 p.m.The show will be all ages, and only $10. Plus, if you hear AR music on KRAB’s “Spank It Or Crank It” show with Danny Spanks, make sure you say,“CRANK IT!” For more information, booking information, or just to drop them a line or two, please feel free to contact them at their webpage:
www.myspace.com/automaticredial BAKOTOPIA 15
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