SEPT. 17, 2009 Sept. 30, 2009
BECA Goes ‘Artamental’
Big Poppa E’s Surprise Visit
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EDITORIAL Olivia Garcia VP/Content ogarcia@bakersfield.com 395-7487 Matt Muñoz Editor/Product Manager mmunoz@bakersfield.com 395-7660
ktoberfest is upon us, beginning Sept. 19 — in Germany, and ending in Bakersfield on Oct. 3. Time and time again, I’ve said it — This town loves to party. Could it be the air? The economy? Harvey Hall?
Whatever it is, we’re not complaining. How could you say no to cover models, Devon & Jennifer? I can remember having a brief conversation with Cory and Kevin from Ugly Duck earlier this year about a “new event” coming to town. Sworn to secrecy, I kept to my word without spilling the brew. Now, it’s here and not a moment too soon! Time to blast some Falco and rock some Amadeus!
Teresa Adamo Associate Editor tadamo@bakersfield.com
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Having partaken in our share of local events, Bakotopia and Ugly Duck have partnered up to help make this event an annual shindig of uber-proportions. Tickets go on sale, beginning Sept. 19! What a coincidence.
Kent Kuehl Designer bsimkins@bakersfield.com
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We have some great content this issue, including an interview with Bako homeboy, Eirik Ott, who now resides in Austin, TX. He was a key figure during the “golden years” of the Bako arts scene during the early ’90s and hung out for a week and even performed some righteous poetry for locals! He’s appeared on HBO’s Def Poetry Jam, 3X!
Jaime De Los Santos Sales Manager jdelossantos@bakersfield.com 716-8632 Gustavo Carrillo Sales Executive Mark Wells Sales Executive
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Thanks to everyone for your continued support of Bakotopia. Our advertisers rule, so show 'em some love and visit their business. Wunderbar!
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September 16, 2009
Kompletely Kaffeinated KRAB!
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Behold, the secret it out! Find out what makes your favorite KRAB DJs tick. By Robin Jones / KRAB, Bakotopia.com contributor even years ago, I was lucky enough to be hired on as part of the KRAB Radio family. Throughout these seven years, I have gained oodles of knowledge and experience. My resume looks almost as chunky as Jon Gosselin’s beer belly (I kind of hate even referencing that buffoon). However, no one cares about how qualified I am. Instead, I get questions regarding what a KRAB DJ is like. Yep. So, here are some answers* to a few common questions asked about KRAB DJs. Do You Guys Really Drink A Lot of Coffee? Yes. Yes, we do. If you go back to the Aug. 6 issue of Bakotopia (you can also find it online at Bakotopia.com), you’ll see the coffee tally among the staff. All of it is true, though Danny Spanks probably drinks a little more than mentioned. You know how the KoolAid Man is just a giant pitcher of sugar-free fruit
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punch? Well, that’s Spanks… but in the form of a giant carafe of coffee. What you hear on the radio is literally coffee talking. He has not taken a human form in almost four years. And that, my friends, is how he got that awesome voice. Are KRAB DJs Just as cool and personable off the air? I’ll say this: the KRAB Morning Show kind of reminds me of the Marx Brothers. Or, for you old school youngsters who can remember — “Animaniacs.” They run amuck through all of our studios, rolling their eyes at innuendo, and honking bicycle horns. And this all happens when their not doing their show. They are their most demure when they are on the air. When the “Real Bruce Wayne” ends his shift by saying, “I hate you all,” he probably doesn’t mean ALL of you. I will go out on a limb, though, and assume that he probably means, “I hate a lot of you.” Sometimes, when the building smells like brimstone, I know that Bruce is just around the corner. If I ever run into you in public at, oh let’s say a store, it’s no accident. I
have a major temper and will probably run into you with a shopping cart on purpose. Also, as far as the “cool” thing is concerned — I have spent my past three summers in San Diego for Comic Con. I’ll add to that by mentioning that I am wearing a Star Trek T-shirt as I am writing this. Clearly, I am the coolest person ever. Ahem. Are ALL Radio DJs Unattractive? Shut your mouth. Seriously, have you SEEN Miranda? Rrrrawr. How Do You REALLY Feel About Nickelback? Whoops, looks like I'm out of time. Hopefully, this gives you a little insight as to what the KRAB staff is like. We're a nerdy, caffeine-fueled, horn honking bunch. And, honestly, I don't think any of us would have it any other way. *Some answers may not be true. Stay up to date with all of the KRAB jocks at: www.KRAB.com Listen for Matt from Bakotopia on the KRAB morning show every issue drop date. Next appearance: Oct. 1 in the 9am hour!
Miranda
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September 16, 2009
How
Sweet It Is “ARTamentals” show on 9/19 will offer artists new classes to help those in need of some new ideas By Jen Raven, Bakotopia.com contributor ou may have caught her recent solo show at the Basement Gallery in July. Perhaps you sat next to her at the last members meeting of Bakersfield Emerging Contemporary Artists, aka BECA. Or maybe you've heard she's going to be a board member for this year's Burn the Witch. But did you also know she's just a little bit mental? ARTaMental, that is. The creative genius behind ‘sweet designs’ and ‘sweet independence’ is at it again with another very sweet creation, ‘ARTaMentals,’ and it’s coming soon to the J.P. Jennings Gallery in downtown Bakersfield. Christina Sweet, as always, is on her A-game. What the heck is an ARTaMental? Christina is so glad you asked! “ARTaMentals will be an afternoon of instruction, lecture and support,” Christina says. “Our goal is for this event to serve as a steppingstone for artists, to help them find a positive direction in their future work. We also want to encourage local artists, in making new contacts within their art community.” Think “Artuary” but in September. Saturday, Sept. 19, to be exact. And, hold on to your light sabers, Star Wars fans! This round of BECA brain-food will include several new classes, including a hands-on costuming lecture in custom-fit Jedi Robes! You don't want to miss this one, scifi geeks. Jen Raven will be teaching several very cool variations on the pattern in this hourlong class, and you will walk away with a paper mock-up, and a pattern packet of your very own ... just
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in time for Halloween! In addition to this, BECA President Nyoka will be teaching a new hands-on class in color theory. Come prepared to do some painting for this one! Also, if you want to learn how to hang your art like a pro, there is sure to be a class on custom framing and hanging hardware. Also featured at this event: Todd Powers of Foxglove Photography will be holding another low-cost artwork/headshots special for portfolios. A networking table will be set up for upcoming event flyers and business cards. And there will be a special BECA art raffle! Who can take advantage of ARTaMentals? Anybody in the community is welcome to attend the adult classes (including older teens with their parents’ permission). Each class is a bargain at only $5 and 100 percent of the proceeds will help BECA bring 'Burn the Witch IV' to life this October! Stay tuned for the updated class schedule! “This is going to be another great BECA event. I'm looking forward to seeing new smiling faces, and to leaving people with a sense of inspiration,” says Christina. “BECA is an ever growing force. We will never give up; we will not skip a beat.” You can log on to: myspace.com/activism4artists or visit www.beca.ws to get the latest information.
J.P. Jennings Gallery 1700 Chester Ave. Saturday, Sept. 19 Noon to 5 p.m. $5 per class, $1 discount w/ student ID BAKOTOPIA 5
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September 16, 2009
PHOTOS BY MATT MUNOZ
Above: Eirik Ott makes an impromptu appearance at Barnes & Noble in Bakersfield during a weekly open mic night on sept. 8.
Poppa Poetry Man Bakersfield native does spoken word for a living & lives to tell the tale By Greg Goodsell, Bakotopia Contributor f you were around the Bakersfield downtown scene in the mid-’90s, quite a few names and places are sure to tug a nostalgic heartstring: Chaos Coffee, Spike 1000, Cradle of Thorns, American Thrift, Babcock's Books and Eirik Ott. If that last name sounds familiar, it's probably because you either read his column in The Bakersfield Californian, or read his home-brewed fanzines Fencepost or Thrust. Back then, Ott was a crazy skateboarding young man with a mission. His writing stepped on quite a few toes, and Ott wasn't afraid to let a few people in the close-knit Bakersfield indie scene that he thought they were rank poseurs. Ott fled Bakersfield when a confluence of different things fell through in '94, and bid a hasty adieu to attend college in Chico. Too often, such boho folks wind up in dull 9-to-5 gigs with a spouse and family to support, but not Ott. Influenced by the burgeoning spoken word scene, Ott took pen in hand
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to compose his own material for poetry slams under the moniker, “Big Poppa E.” “I stopped doing music, and just started doing poetry full time. I started being part of the San Francisco scene, which was three hours away from Chico, started making a name for myself over there. In 1999, there was the National Poetry Slam, which is sort of like the Olympics of performance poetry. My team won that year. We were in the New York Times, the Washington Post, Chicago Sun Times, “60 Minutes” … It was crazy. I quit my job, I quit school, and went on tour,” he said. Ott would find far-flung acclaim, and in a world where so many artists have the day gig to keep them afloat, poetry is all Ott does. “I make as much money as a manager at Taco Bell, but I don't have to work at Taco Bell,” Ott explained at a recent open mic affair at Bakersfield's Barnes & Noble Bookstore on Sept. 8. “I got $2,800 for a poetry gig in Alaska, and $800 of that went to travel expenses and the rest I got to keep.” Ott thoroughly entertained the standing room-only audience on the night of his performance. While many still associate poetry with high-talking esoteric, Ott's work is infused with much humor and deals explicitly with the commonality of human experience. One poem dealt with the male gaze and the wish fulfillment of coffeehouse devotees that the cute barista who looks up from the counter harbors a secret crush on them. Ott laid the story straight that these overworked young women, in fact, only see them as cus-
tomers, and associate them with their weird tics and unfortunate fashion decisions. Ott also read a poem of early attraction among pre-adolescents, of being ashamedly “in like” with the member of the opposite sex. Even then, Ott was on his best behavior that night, realizing some of his “anatomical” poetic terms might not fly. Ott has since been on the HBO series Def Poetry Jam three times. “I was also the whitest person on (BET) Black Entertainment Television,” laughs Ott. “I stopped doing real jobs. I take jobs every now and then, I like to do graphic design and promotion, but for the most part, I publish my books and travel the country.” Ott now makes his home in the creative hotbed of Austin, Texas, where he says “that you can't swing a dead cat without hitting an actor, musician or person with a video camera.” While the poet makes the world his stage and Austin his home, he still harbors fond memories of his time in Bakersfield. “I didn't know it then, but back then we had a vibrant little scene. I think being pinned down and held in check just makes you want to lash out and be heard even more strongly than ever.” In closing, Ott advises readers: “If you want more info on what I've been up to, just search for 'Big Poppa E' on Wikipedia. That's my stage name.”
www.brokenword.org/
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September 16, 2009
2009 Oktoberfest Survival Guide By Matt Munoz, Bakotopia Editor top right there! Before you turn the page, your friends at Bakotopia have decided to get you prepped for Bakersfield Oktoberfest on October 3. No one likes to be out of der loop! Let's start with some Oktoberfest history… Oktoberfest is the biggest festival in Germany and is held over 16 days leading up to the first Sunday in October. The first Oktoberfest was held in Munich on October 18, 1810 to commemorate the wedding of Bavarian Crown Prince Ludwig (later King Ludwig I) and Princess Therese of Saxe-Hildburghausen. The festival has survived wars and even David Hasselhoff during the reunification of Germany in '89. From there, you're going to have to do your own history sleuthing - it gets way too technical for party purposes. Get plenty of rest the night before… Since our Oktoberfest is cut down to one day, you'll have a lot of areas to cover. Get a full night's rest - and study the follwing lesson on how to make most of your Oktoberfest experience. Get your party posse together… A party is always better with a large group on the same mission. Make a list of the funnest people you know and make it an all day thing. Everyone can share the tab, and there's always the one crazy friend that will keep you in the mood all day. Oktoberfest buzz words... Every cultural festival has its share of wild expressions, Greeks say “Opa”, Jews say “Mazel
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Above: The real Oktoberfest in Germany. tov”, and Mexicans say “Orale'!” Here's a short list of German buzz words to help you annoy your neighbor while swigging from your Das Boot stein: • Prost! - “Cheers!” • Wunderbar! - “Wonderful!” • Nix da! - “No Way!” • Ja! - “Yeah!” • Danke! - “Thank You!” • Auf Wiedersehen! “Farewell!” • Achtung! - “Attention!” • Raus! - “Out!”
Look Oktoberfab… This isn't a summertime, flip-flop, shorts, slob fest, it's Oktoberfest! Get into the spirit, and sport some lederhosen - the shorts with suspenders and a hat with a feather in it. Ladies in lederhosen are guaranteed sexiness if cut the “right way”, so do your research and make some yourself, or buy some online and get ready for the million photos you will be posing for all day. You're guaranteed to be an instant hit. Learn to polka… While you might not have time to learn a full German polka, do a Google search and you're sure to find link or videos on how to do it right with some basic steps and not flop around like a piece of soggy strudel. Remember fellas, the way to a woman's heart just might be through the erotic power of der polka! Moderation, friend… The Oktoberfest gates open at 3pm and close at 10pm, that gives you approximately 7 hours to get your most righteous fill and groove on. We suggest you try the various foods, in between the cold brew you crave. Drink water throughout the day too, it'll help keep things in proper “balance”. Keep things fun and have a designated driver… Safety is the key to having a good time. Make sure everyone's got a smile goin' and that you have a designated driver. If you have a sober party goer, ask them to keep tabs on key chains. That way you can reminisce about doing the polka the next morning, and plan for next year! NOW YOU’RE READY! TURN DER PAGE! BAKOTOPIA 7
Get ready for a new local tradition starting Oct. 3rd at Stramler By Matt Munoz, Bakotopia Editor chtung, baby! Oktoberfest is coming! You read correctly, Germany’s annual 16-day festival of food, music, dancing and Bavarian brewhaha is making its way to Bakersfield for one day only. Grab your lederhosen and get ready to celebrate with your friends and family on Saturday, Oct. 3, at Stramler Park. The festivities begin at 3 p.m. and last until 10 p.m.. This great event is brought to you by Bakotopia and Ugly Duck Marketing of Bakersfield. An idea years in the making for freunds (friends) and Ugly Duck colleagues — Cory Jenkins and Kevin Harrer — the two decided it was time to start a new local cultural tradition. “Bakersfield’s so culturally diverse. We have the Basque picnic, Greek food festival, Cinco de Mayo, so why not an Oktoberfest,” said Jenkins of the inspiration behind the duo’s plan to add a German heritage festival to the annual list of successful celebrations. “We wanted to kick this off last year, but decided to wait until the time was right.” Fellow organizer, Harrer, excitedly echoes Jenkins enthusiasm as an experienced “Oktoberfester” himself. “I’ve been to a couple Oktoberfests held in California that are huge,” he said. “My parents have even been to Munich, Germany to celebrate. One thing we all agreed upon after our experiences are that everyone gets along really well, and the look and feel of the event is great. Plus, the real Oktoberfest ends in Germany the day after ours on Oct. 4.” Well said, especially since Bakersfield never turns down a reason to party. “Since we made the announcement, people are getting really excited,” said Jenkins of the public’s immediate response. “Locals with German surnames are already making requests on beer and food. We’re also encouraging people to dress up and have some fun with this.” Jenkins’ “dress-up” statement refers to the traditional garb seen at a real Oktoberfest. Lederhosen, which means “leather trousers” — traditional Germanic work attire consisting of shorts with suspenders and worn with a variety of shirts, hats and shoes.
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Original lederhosen were made of leather and aren’t as common in the workplace as they were back in the day, but can be seen on festive occasions. (Think of the guys in the Ricola throat lozenge commercials, and you’ll get the picture.) Women are also known to sport men’s lederhosen, but can opt to go a more feminine route with a dress called a Dirndl (bodice, blouse, full skirt, and apron). Either way, festival goers are asked to spice it up, create your own style, or make it sexy like our lovely Bakotopia cover girls - Jennifer and Devon. Who knows? You might even win a prize! “There will be a contest for best dressed at the event,” smiled Harrer, who looks forward to seeing some peculiar sights himself. Now that you have your outfit planned out, what's next? Get your belly ready, because the menu will be a mix of both the authentic and American variety - courtesy of local catering businesses, sure to please even the most ardent Austrian. “There will be a big Bavarian menu,” said Jenkins. He’s not joking either. Try pronouncing these delicacies you’ll find at Bakersfield Oktoberfest on Oct.3: Muncher Weisswurste, Nurnberge Rostbratwurstl, Schweinebraten, and Riesenbrwurst — all sausage and beef recipes with that authentic kick, plus potatoes, cabbage, sauerkraut and more! And what goes great with rich foods? Ice cold brews to wash it down and make room for more. After all, an Oktoberfest without beer would be a serious party foul. “We have four labeled beers direct from Germany, plus locally there’s Lengthwise, BJ’s, Kern River — all brewing Oktoberfest and fall seasonal ales,” said Harrer of the fine flavors being sold and served in a souvenir Das Boot beer stein. “But it's not just a drinking festival, so partake in all the festivities to get the full experience.” To help you keep up the whole day, organizers have done their homework to supply the Oktoberfest with competitions like the “Stein Carrying Contest,” the “Stein Holding Contest,” and to keep your feet from getting weary — “The Red River Dutchmen,” a real live polka band. Just make sure you practice your balance - have you
seen polka dancing? It ain’t no disco. You c out with the soulful pop grooves of Soulajar help keep you nice and mellow during party That's a pretty good deal for a $5 advanc admission or $10 at the gate. Or if you're re mood — you can also buy special party pac sale or $40 at the door. Each party pack con admission ticket, two drink tickets, a 1-liter Oktoberfest stein or Das Boot stein, and a g Before we forget, we must remind you th for adults 21 & over only, sorry kiddos. “Kids have the Kern County Fair, and adu berfest,” said Jenkins. Like other local events of its kind, the firs Bakersfield Oktoberfest is giving a portion o proceeds to M.A.R.E. (Mastering Abilities R Equines), a therapeutic organization that he the disabled through horseriding and other equine-related activities. “M.A.R.E lost about $70,000 worth of grants cut by the state,” explained Harrer. “We're hoping this will help replenish some those funds.” Picture yourself under a real Oktoberfest with other party goers, complete with lights decorations. It's Bako-bonding at its finest there's no excuse for not jumping in to join day fest. And remember - party hardy, but al have a designated driver. “Since most of us can't travel to Munich we're bringing Munich to Bakersfield,” said Harrer. “We're offering everyone something fun to do in town and would like to see it keep building for years to come”. Wunderbar! For more info on Bakersfield Oktoberfest, visit their official website:
www.bakersfieldoktoberfest.com Enter to win a FREE Bakersfield Oktoberfest party pack! Visit:
www.bakotopia.com for details!
PHOTOS BY OMAR ZAMUDIO / WWW.OMARZAMUDIO.COM
Pictured on the coverr, from left: Devon Cera & Jennifer Hungerford (also pictured at right) BAKOTOPIA 8
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AGENDA WHAT’S ON IT
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= Highly recommended
SEPT. 17
Foster & Friends - LIVE! BRyder's 7401 White Ln. 8:30 p.m. / 21+ / $3 397-7304 Karaoke (Every Thurs. & Sun.) The Belvedere 3090 Brundage Ln. 9 p.m. / 21+ / 325-2139 “Most Fab Story Ever Told” The Empty Space 706 Oak St. (ALSO SAT.) $15-$10 / 8 pm / 327-PLAY
SEPT. 18 Dramarama - LIVE! BRyder's, 7401 White Ln. 8:30 p.m. / 21+/397-7304
The Subterraneans - LIVE! Fishlips, 1517 18th St. 9 p.m. / 21+ / 324-2557 Sunday Snake Oil - LIVE! The Belvedere (also Sat.) 3090 Brundage Ln. 9 p.m. / 21+ / 325-2139 Glenda Robles Band - LIVE! Pyrenees Café 601 Sumner St. 8 p.m. / 21+ / 323-0053
SEPT. 19
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Gov't Mule w/ Carnie Fox Theater, 2001 H St. 8 p.m. / $28.50
DON’T DRINK & DRIVE!
September 16, 2009
“Most Fab Story Ever Told” The Empty Space 706 Oak St. (ALSO SAT.) $15-$10 / 2 pm / 327-PLAY
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Thee Majestics - LIVE! “35th Anniversary” Le Corusse Rouge 4647 White Lane 9 p.m. / 21+ / 834-1611
Gears of War 2 Tourney Gamestor, East Hills Mall 12 p.m. / $10 / All Ages 871-7900 (for info) www.gamestor.com
Monday Night Football Nite! Big screen TV, $8 buffet w/ ESPN Radio! Fishlips, 1517 18th St. 5 p.m. / 21+
Near Miss Mallet - LIVE! Mama Hillybeans 426 E. Tehachapi Blvd. Tehachapi, CA. 7 p.m. / $5 / 822-BEAN
SEPT. 22
“Bon Fire” AC/DC Tribute Fishlips, 1517 18th St. 9 p.m. / 21+ / $15 324-2557
HeroesAreForever, GenocideAftermath, Adalia, & MollyHartly The Gate 3 Bad Jacks, Iron Outlaws & 2010 “O” St. more! Burlesque dancers & 7 p.m. / $7 / All Ages pin-up contest! Major League Improv Narducci's Café (Every Sat.) 622 E. 21st St. The Empty Space 9 pm / $10 / 21+ /324706 Oak St.. 2961 6 p.m. / 327 - PLAY “B Town Blues Fest” Usual Suspects - LIVE! Sonny Landreth, Pyrenee's Café Soul of John Black, & more 601 Sumner St. CSUB Amphitheatre 2-6p.m. / 21+ / 323-0053 3:30 p.m. - 10 p.m. $40 - $20 / 17 & Under SEPT. 21 FREE! 831-3100 TWITTER.COM/BAKOTOPIA WWW.BAKOTOPIA.COM
Mac Attack's Karaoke (Every Tues., Wed., Fri.) The Junction 2620 Buck Owens Blvd. 8 p.m. / 21+ / 327-9651
SEPT. 23 Phil Vassar - LIVE! Budweiser Pavilion KC Fairgrounds 8 p.m. / FREE / All Ages
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W.E.E.D. Wednesday Fishlips, 151718th St. 4 - 9p.m. /$5 dinner specials *Travis Byler live at 8 p.m.
SEPT. 24 MÁS Magazine presents… Tower of Power - LIVE! Budweiser Pavilion KC Fairgrounds 8 p.m. / FREE / All Ages
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September 16, 2009
SPOTLIGHT SATURDAY, OCT. 3 Bakotopia presents...
Bakersfield Oktoberfest! Authentic German food, music, beer, vendors, and more!
Stramler Park 3805 Chester Ave.
-3 - 10 p.m. / 21+ -$5 pre-sale / $10 gate -$35 - $40 party packs Info: 706-3138 www.bakersfieldoktoberfest.com Kama Ruby - LIVE! Metro Galleries, 1604 19th St., 7:30 p.m. / $10 Call: 634-9598
Los Fabulosos Cadillacs Honda Center, Anaheim, CA 8 p.m. / $43.50-$98.50 www.ticketmaster.com
Part One Tribe /Dub Seeds Fishlips, 1517 18th St. 9 p.m. / $5 / 21+
Mento Buru - LIVE! SEPT. 25 The Cellar Door 101 W Main St. Billy Russell Pyrenees Café, 601 Sumner Visalia, CA / 9 p.m. / 21+ St., 8 p.m. / 21+ / 323-0053 559-636-9463
BAKOTOPIA.COM/SEEN
“Most Fab Story Ever Told” The Empty Space 706 Oak St. (ALSO SAT.) $15-$10 / 8 pm / 327-PLAY
AKA - LIVE! The Belvedere (also Sat.) 3090 Brundage Ln. 9 p.m. / 21+ / 325-2139
Usual Suspects - LIVE! Pyrenees Café 601 Sumner St. 2-6 p.m. / 21+ / 323-0053
Backup Johnny - LIVE! Fishlips, 1517 18th St. 9 p.m. / 21+ / 324-2557
SEPT. 28
SEPT. 26 Mento Buru w/DJ Mikey! BRyder's 7401 White Ln. 9 p.m. / 21+ / $5 397-7304
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PONG661 Beer Pong! Fishlips, 1517 18th St. 1 p.m. / 21+ / $30 The Afterparty - LIVE! Fishlips, 1517 18th St. 9 p.m. / 21+ / 324-2557
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“Band Razor” BECA Fundraiser w/ local bands! Le Corusse Rouge 4647 White Lane 6 p.m. (all ages until 9 p.m.) $5 / 834-1611
Hanson - LIVE! Budweiser Pavilion KC Fairgrounds 8 p.m. / FREE / All Ages
SEPT. 29 Rick Springfield - LIVE! Budweiser Pavilion KC Fairgrounds 8 p.m. / FREE / All Ages
SEPT. 30 W.E.E.D. Wednesday Fishlips, 151718th St. 4 - 9p.m. /$5 dinner specials *Travis Byler live at 8 p.m. ENTER TO WIN OKTOBERFEST PARTY PACKS AT: WWW.BAKOTOPIA.COM
BE GOOD HUMANS!
BAKOTOPIA 11
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September 16, 2009
PHOTOBY TODD POWERS / FOXGLOVE PHOTOGRAPHY
Above: Destroy The Throne featuring Nyoka Jameson (center).
Raze The Rouge! Band fundraiser in SW Bako is about art scene unity on 9/26. By Jen Raven, Bakotopia.com contributor his Razor cuts both ways: Get ready for the first ever “Band Razor” at Le Corusse Rouge! More than just your average fundraiser, this fantastic fusion of artwork and music will have you seeing red with hot live music onstage and hot new artwork on the patio. The show takes place on Sept. 26 at Le Corusse Rouge, 4647 White Lane, kicking off at 6 p.m. Bakersfield Emerging Contemporary Artists member and creator of the “Band Razor” Amanda Rosado says, “I love the local band scene. I’ve recently become more involved in the local visual art scene, and I would love to mesh the two together.... I want to help these bands become more well-known around town, while also helping BECA to become a nonprofit.” BECA, or Bakersfield Emerging Contemporary Artists, is adding new members with each regular meeting and is working toward its 501(c)3 nonprofit status. “As a legal nonprofit, we’d be able to do so much more as a club for the arts community,” says BECA President Nyoka Jameson. The Band Razor event will take place Saturday, Sept. 26, starting at 6 pm and will feature the musical stylings of local acts, Three Chord Whore, Luckystiff, Tribal Alliance, Trading Company, Skin Reaper, Destroy the Throne, and Sideways. Original artwork displayed on the patio will
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include the works of BECA visual artists and will be available for sale starting at 1 p.m. The $5 cover at the door will help BECA with the legal expenses that are part of filing for a 501(c)3 nonprofit status. Are there plans for more Band Razor events in the future? You bet! Says Amanda, “My plan for future Band Razors is to get everyone in on this.... We are all part of this local arts scene, and I want to help set the example; that we all need to work together and help one another out.” Many of the bands involved in this fund-raiser are of the same mind. Destroy the Throne, a newer band to the scene, has been community minded from the start. “Our very first show together was part of a fundraiser and memorial service,” says lead vocalist Nyoka. “Of course, we are part of this fundraiser in support of BECA. But we also just love Le Corusse Rouge. It's one of our favorite places to perform.”
“Band Razor” Le Corusse Rouge, 4647 White Lane Saturday, Sept. 26 Starts at 6 p.. (21 and over after 9 p.m.) $5 cover to help benefit BECA Visit: www.beca.ws for more info
COURTESY PHOTO
Above: Three Chord Whore
BAKOBIT from Bakotopia.com
September 16, 2009
‘Heroes’ Returns’ Could this be the end of TV's former king of prime-time sci-fi? By Gabriel Ramirez, Bakotopia.com contributor
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s we wait anxiously for the latest chapter of “Heroes” to take flight at its new time slot 8 p.m.Sept. 21 on NBC, let’s re-cap previous volumes...
Volume 1: Genesis, they derailed a ploy to blow up New York. Volume 2: Generations, they prevented the released of a lethal virus. Volume 3: Villains, they fought against their inner darkness. Volume 4: Fugitives, they took on the U.S. government. Now in Volume 5: “Redemption,” NBC’s “Heroes” are seeking redemption, but is the title of the fifth volume also meant as a reboot or final attempt to save the series? Let’s be honest with ourselves and first admit that the last two volumes of “Heroes” were filled with inconsistent plot development, remedial writing and a method of story telling that no longer resembled the award nominated Volume 1. I will admit that I will be a fan of “Heroes” until the series finale, but what do we have to look forward to this volume? When we last left our “Heroes,” they were being hunted down like animals, or more like the X-Men — but let’s not even go there. In the last volume, we were promised the ‘real’ death of one of the main heroes, and, well, we got the death of Nathan Petrelli, sort of, but then saw him
resurrected as Sylar was forced to take Nathan’s form and with his clairsentience ability also absorb all of Nathan’s memories, therefore becoming Nathan and, in a way, meaning that Nathan is not completely dead. In “Redemption,” we will see the Nathan/Sylar persona begin to recover memories that not even Nathan remembered, while at the same time Sylar will haunt Matt Parkman who is responsible for the body switch. On the Bennett front, we will see our indestructible Claire going to college in an attempt to show that our “Heroes” are trying to go back to living a normal life, which I think they have been trying to do since Volume 2. One of the more interesting components of the new season will be the Carnival, a band of super-powered people who feel they don’t have to hide their abilities. The Carnival highlights the question being brought up by the writers this volume: Should you live a lie or accept the reality you have been dealt? New to this season are Sam, an earth-manipulator and head of the Carnival, played by Robert Knepper; Lydia, a clairvoyant played by Dawn Olivieri, and Edgar, a speedster, and knife thrower played by Ray Park, who you might remember as Toad from X-Men and Darth Maul from The Phantom Menace. All in all, the season is once again promising us a return to the “Heroes” we remember from Volume 1, and I personally am keeping my fingers crossed. I hear once again Monica Dawson, everyone's favorite muscle mimic, will not be joining the cast but tons of surprises are in store for fans. Enjoy! nbc.com/Heroes BAKOTOPIA 13
BAKOBIT from Bakotopia.com
September 16, 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
loop! 14,000-print readers, over 9,000+ registered web users, 100,000+ monthly
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!
web views can’t be wrong! Wanna advertise with Bako? Best rates in town, call: 661-716-8640
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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
If you have any ideas or feedback, or need some help with story development,
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give me a shout anytime! YOUR SUPPORT IS APPRECIATED!
e-mail: matt@bakotopia.com WWW.BAKOTOPIA.COM
BAKOBIT from Bakotopia.com
September 16, 2009
The power of “Tower!” Bakersfield favorites return to the KC Fair on Sept. 24 This past April, T.O.P. released their latest CD, “The Great American Soulbook,” a collection of soul classics, performed by the band akersfield’s adopted funky family is comPresented by MAS Magazine and some special guests. ing back to visit. -Thursday, September 24 UK soulstress Joss Stone, Tom Jones, Bay Area’s finest — Tower of Power -8 p.m. rhythm & blues legend Sam Moore, and Huey — will be appearing at the KC Fair’s Budweiser -KC Fair Budweiser Pavilion Lewis all lent their voices to the project. Some Pavilion, on Thursday, Sept. 24, at 8 p.m. The Admission free with fair admission concert is free with fair admission. songs included on the disc are, “I Thank You,” -www.kerncountyfair.com Horn-heavy creators of “The Oakland “It Take Two,” “Mr. Pitiful,” and “634-5789.” Stroke,” along with classics like, “You’re Still A Looking at the disc’s liner notes, recording sesTower of Power facts sions also included keyboardist George Duke, Young Man,” “What is Hip?” and “Soul Vaccina• The band was originally known and original guitarist Bruce Conte. All packed tion” among others — T.O.P.’s live show is a as The Motowns, before changwith the T.O.P. touch, “The Great American Soulmust for local music fans. ing it to the “hipper” Tower of Power during a recording book,” is a fitting tribute to their musical inspiWith 16 studio albums, numerous compilasession in Hayward, Calif. rations as well as a reminder that no one does tions and imports, and live albums under their • James Brown made T.O.P. record listening sessions funkier than Tower. collective belt, Tower Of Power, or T.O.P., have mandatory for his own band. maintained their loyal following. And much like Tower of Power’s present line-up includes: Castillo — tenor sax, Stephen “Doc” Kupka — their SF musical brethren, Santana, Tower Of •“You’re Still A Young Man,” is loosely based on a personPower continues to keep their creative pulse baritone sax, Francis “Rocco” Prestia — bass, al experience of Castillo’s. pounding by recording and performing regularly David Garibaldi — drums, Larry Braggs — lead • Bakersfield saxophonist Paul Perez recorded on ensemto sold-out crowds everywhere. vocals, Roger Smith — keyboards, Tom E. ble sessions for '93’s “T.O.P.” CD. Politzer — first tenor sax, alto sax, Adolfo AcosScoring a big break after auditioning for San • T.O.P has continued to perform non-stop since forming in ta — trumpet, Michael Bogart — lead trumpet, Francisco artistic visionary, Bill Graham, during 1968. and Mark Harper — guitar. the heyday of the famed Fillmore West in the The annual KC Fair Tower of Power show can 1960’s, the band entered The Bay Area’s psy• Emilio’s favorite part about performing at the fair — best be described as a sort of “reunion night” chedelic music scene as young innovators. besides the fans — is the lengua tacos! for attendees. Along with dancing along to all Who would have thought a band of soul music the classic hits, taking a look around you’re playing teenagers could infiltrate the “Flower bound to see old friends, musicians, and families with kids, all bouncing in Power” masses of the Vietnam-era with sophisticated musical and funky tune. styles, beyond anything “The Godfather of Soul,” James Brown, had ever composed? It just goes to show, the power of “Tower!” That was over 40 years ago, and the band hasn’t slowed down one bit. www.towerofpower.com By Matt Munoz, Bakotopia Editor
Tower of Power - LIVE!
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