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JUNE 2012
IN THIS ISSUE THE COVER STORY 6
Summer Fun!
Open Road Music Festival 2011 Photo by Justin Perry Cover photo by Justin Mayotte of Flash House Studios EXCLUSIVE ON-LINE CONTENT @ THEPULSEMAG.COM
DINING & ENTERTAINING
ENTERTAINMENT
ENTERTAINMENT
34
REVIEW: Rosalina’s Kitchen
13
Bhurin Sead of Blue Man Group
35
HOT AND NOW
14
B.D.M. Productions Local DJs Form New Live Production Company
36
PULSECOCKTAILS
37
EdibleGiftsPlus.com
UP AND COMERS BAND: SiN BAND: I’ll Wear Your Crown BAND: Pathogenic
SPORTS & FITNESS
PULSEBOOKS Nathaniel Connors’ Revelation: Creatures Rule the Night
39
ART & CULTURE
PULSEFLICKS
PULSEFLICKS Oxford Native Nicole Fitzpatrick and Astropiano Films
40
LIFESTYLE
15
16
17
18
ON CD MELT’s Armageddon Party Tim Myers’ Techinicolor The Veer Union’s Divide The Blackened Sky The Cult’s Choice of Weapon Demons Alley’s Dead End Tricks
38
Interview w/ Jonny Davy from Job for a Cowboy The New Trespass America Festival Comes to the DCU Center Indian Ranch Rocks This Summer
Framingham’s Bellator Feather weight Saul “The Spider” Almeida Arctic Ease
Anthrax Plans a Special Set for Their Fans at Mayhem Fest Styx, REO Speedwagon, and Ted Nugent Launch “The Midwest Rock n Roll Express” Tour BANDHAPPY Announces the Official “BANDHAPPY Lesson Tent at Vans Warped Tour HOT SHOTS
They Want [to Draw] Your Braaaaains!
PULSEWHEELS PULSETECH
STYLE & BEAUTY
TRAVEL: Festival d’ete de Quebec
46
Elephant Squad Clothing Positivity Never Looked So Good
47
Bits of Bohemia
PULSEBREW: Newcastle Brown Ale Launches Limited Edition Summer Ale
48
The Eyes Have It!
The Food Truck Trend Drives into Worcester
DINING & ENTERTAINING
20
GIRL’S GOT GAME
48
24
CLUB, PUB, & COFFEEHOUSE LISTINGS
Two Unique Collections That Will Make Your Summer Style Sizzle
High River Sauces Collaborate with Food Network’s Chef Chris Santos and RATT Frontman Stephen Pearcy
49
Mally Beauty ~ Still Making Women Look and Feel Beautiful!
STYLE & BEAUTY
26
PULSE SHOTS
LIFESTYLE 30
Hard to Be a (Wanna-be) Gent? Time to Consult G3nt ~ A Handbook for the Third Millennium Gentleman
Paul Giorgio, Publisher Lara Dean, Sr. Editor Justin Perry, Art Director Katelyn Putelis, Graphics & New Media Designer Chris Reddy, Mike Moore, Erik Carlson, Account Executives Kim Dunbar, Sports Editor Elise French, Copy Editor Alex Kantarelis, Music Editor Tine Roycroft, Lifestyle Editor
Frank Poulin, Special Concerts Photographer Tine Roycroft, Jennifer Russo, Alex Kantarelis, Josh Lyford, Jason Savio, Katey Khaos, Bernie Whitmore, Jason Prokowiew, Steph Moore, Courtney Danielson, Stephanie Monahan, P. Giorgio, Rachel Shuster, Rick Garner, Steve Henricksen, Elise French, Tim Branch, Alvin Benjamin Carter III, Writers
Joey New York Relaunches Sydney Evans Jewelry Treat Your Feet and Keep Them Happy! CULTURE stART on the Street Adds Classic Cars to Its Spring Lineup
PULSE Magazine is produced 12 times a year by Pagio Inc., 88 Winter St., Worcester, MA 01604. (508) 756-5006. Copyright 2012 All rights reserved. Pagio, Inc. does not hold itself responsible for statements made by any contributor. Statements or opinions expressed in Pulse reflect the views of the author(s) and not the official policy of the Pagio, Inc., unless so stated. Although all advertising material is expected to conform to ethical standards, acceptance does not imply endorsement by Pagio, Inc. unless so stated. Material printed in Pulse is covered by copyright. No copyright is claimed to any work of the U.S. government. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form without written permission. For information on permissions, reprints and other services, contact Pagio, Inc. Also by Pagio Inc.: Worcester Medicine, Vitality Magazine, Thepulsemag.com, Thevitalitymag.com, & TasteWorcester.com
June 2012
| THEPULSEMAG.COM 5
ON THE COVER
“Summer.” Say it with me. “Summer.” Ahhhh… sunny days at the beach, road trips with friends, pool parties, sexy hookups, great concerts, less clothing/more tanned flesh, drinks on the deck of your favorite hotspot...Summer is all about F-U-N, and that’s what we’re bringing you in this issue ~ some ways to maximize the fun factor of this glorious time of year.
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Day Trippin’
Summer Tours
Sure, roadtrips are an absolute must for the summer ~ but sometimes you want to or have to stay closer to home ~ and when that’s the case, don’t worry, there’s no shortage of fun in the sun nearby! Here are some suggestions (mind you, I say “some” because we could fill the whole magazine with all the stuff there is to do around here!) within about an hour’s ride from Worcester ~ and since they’re so close, why pick and choose ~ there’s plenty of time to do them all!
Here’s just a partial list of all the great music that’s coming our way this summer ~ and more tours are being announced each day!
By Steph Moore
Disc Jam 2012 Music Festival & Disc Golf Tourney, June 15-17 at Hyland Orchard & Brewery, 199 Arnold Road, Fiskdale, MA. Three letters: F – U – N. How can you go wrong with a great musical line-up, beer brewed on-site, a laid-back vibe, disc golf, lots of places to stretch out on a blanket and relax, and… did we mention the great musical line-up? http://facebook.com/ DiscJamMusicFestival Catch a drive-in movie at the Leicester Triple Drive-In on Route 9, www.leicesterdrivein.net Crystal Caves in Auburn offers mini golf, batting cages (slow and fast pitch), bungee trampoline, basketball trampoline, food from burgers to pizza to hot dogs, and over 90 flavors of ice cream. www. crystalcaves.com Head to WaterFireProvidence ~ get there early to eat, drink, and take in the amazing outdoor art and live performances, then make your way to the water for the spectacular (and very romantic) lighting of the floating torches. www. waterfire.org Lowell Folk Festival runs from July 27-29 (www. lowellfolkfestival.org) and combines music, food, and culture, and the Lowell Summer Music Festival kicks off on June 22 with Ziggy Marley and features George Thorogood and the Destroyers on August 4 (www. lowellsummermusic.org). Indulge your inner child’s love of amusement parks at Canobie Lake Park, in Salem, NH (about one hour from Worcester) or Six Flags New England in Springfield, MA (just under one hour from Worcester) www.canobie. com, www.sixflags.com/newEngland Wachusett Valley Folk Festival Wachusett Village Inn hosts its annual outdoor Folk Festival with great music in the fresh air! www.wachusett.com Summer Nationals at Green Hill Park, July 5 – 8. Once again 2012 will be the absolute largest automotive party on the east coast! This show has long been known for
having some of the wildest controlled burnouts anywhere! And if that’s not enough to excite you then the flame thrower display is sure to blow you away! But it doesn’t stop there either, on top of all that there’s the Extreme Stunt Bike exhibitions held thru out the show plus several top name live bands and DJs performing on the outdoor stage! Also don’t miss the famed Miss Summer Nationals beauty pageant! On top of all this there is a huge car show with over 5000 of the wildest, most beautiful cars, trucks and custom bikes that you’ve ever seen! www.summernationals.com Rockstar Mayhem Festival, Aug. 3 at the Comcast Center...featuring Slipnot, Slayer, Motorhead, As I Lay Dying, The Devil Wears Prada, and lots more…for a full list of bands, check out http://rockstarmayhemfest. com. Canobie Lake Park in Salem, NH offers thrill rides (including the Xtreme Frisbee), water rides (like the Policy Pond Log Flume), skill and competition games, arcades, sports games, live entertainment, Wildlife Encounters, and every kind of food and snack imaginable. www.canobie.com The Annual Latino Festival will be held at Worcester City Hall on Aug.18 from noon ‘til 9pm. For more info, head to www.worcesterlatinfestival.com. Vans Warped Tour, July 19 in Mansfield, MA with Worcester’s Four Year Strong, Pierce the Veil, Taking Back Sunday, New Found Glory, Breathe Carolina, and many more…stay tuned at http://vanswarpedtour.com/ bands. Like cruises? Like music? Are you 21+? Then you’ll love the 2012 Rock and Blues Concert Cruises that take place on the Provincetown II and leave from the World Trade Center Pier in the Seaport District at 200 Seaport Blvd, Boston. Cruises usually last about three hours. There is a cash bar and food concessions on board, and this year’s musical lineup includes Max Creek,Ryan Montbleau Band, Bellevue Cadillac, The English Beat, and more. For additional info, including
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June 2012
Lady Gaga Radiohead Red Hot Chili Peppers Coldplay DMB Bruce Springsteen Styx/REO Speedwagon/Ted Nugent Ringo Starr Identity Festival Live Journey Brad Paisley Fiona Apple The Strokes Bonnaroo Bad Religion Madonna Tenacious D Tool Mayhem Fest Seal Linkin Park Matchbox 20 Rolling Stones Slash Aerosmtih Katy Perry Christina Aguilera Rage Against the Machine Alice in Chains Taylor Swift Jimmy Buffest Rush U2 Foster the People Cheap Trick LMFAO Roger Waters Black Eyed Peas Lil Wayne Pink Floyd Reunion Tour Smashing Pumpkins Stone Temple Pilots The Black Keys Pearl Jam on Tour Bon Jovi Daughtry Muse Nickelback Phish Iron Maiden KASKADE "Freaks of Nature" Tour 311 and Slightly Stoopid Avicii - Le7els The World’s First-Ever Electronic Dance Music All Arena Tour | THEPULSEMAG.COM 7
Summer Flix Sometimes it’s just too hot and humid out and all you want to do is sit in an air conditioned theatre and veg out to a great movie…here’s a list of some of the flicks coming our way this summer. JUNE Rock of Ages Starring: Diego González Boneta, Julianne Hough, Tom Cruise, Alec Baldwin, Bryan Cranston Director: Adam Shankman Prometheus Starring: Noomi Rapace, Charlize Theron, Michael Fassbender, Guy Pearce, Idris Elba Director: Ridley Scott I Hate You, Dad Starring: Adam Sandler, Andy Samberg, Leighton Meester, James Caan, Vanilla Ice Director: Sean Anders, John Morris Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter Starring: Benjamin Walker, Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Rufus Sewell, Anthony Mackie Director: Timur Bekmambetov Brave Starring: Kelly Macdonald, Julie Walters, Billy Connolly, Robbie Coltrane, Craig Ferguson Director: Mark Andrews
G.I. Joe: Retaliation Starring: Channing Tatum, Dwayne Johnson, Bruce Willis, Adrianne Palicki Director: Jon M. Chu
Ted Starring: Mark Wahlberg, Mila Kunis, Laura Vandervoort, Giovanni Ribisi Director: Seth MacFarlane The Dark Knight Rises Starring: Christian Bale, Tom Hardy, Anne Hathaway, Joseph GordonLevitt, Gary Oldman Director: Christopher Nolan Neighborhood Watch Starring: Ben Stiller, Vince Vaughn, Jonah Hill, Rosemarie DeWitt Director: Frank Coraci AUGUST The Bourne Legacy Starring: Jeremy Renner, Rachel Weisz, Edward Norton, Scott Glenn, Joan Allen Director: Tony Gilroy Total Recall Starring: Colin Farrell, Kate Beckinsale, Bryan Cranston, Jessica Biel, Bill Nighy, Ethan Hawke Director: Len Wiseman The Expendables 2 Starring: Sylvester Stallone, Jason Statham, Bruce Willis, Arnold Director: Simon West
JULY The Amazing Spider-Man Starring: Andrew Garfield, Emma Stone, Rhys Ifans, Irrfan Khan, Martin Sheen Director: Marc Webb
For complete plot summaries of all these films and more, head to www.movie-moron. com.
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schedule, tickets, and parking, visit www.rockandbluescruise.com. All the details for the 3rd annual Open Road Festival aren’t in quite yet, but based on how much fun last year’s festival was, you’re not going to want to miss this one. Open Road is Worcester’s first sustainable and earth-friendly music and arts festival that features (duh!) great live music, a variety of local artists, vendors, food, and activities. Keep checking back at www.openroadfestival.com and www. facebook.com/openroadfestival. Water Country in Portsmouth, NH is the place for you if you like it wet-n-wild ~ there are rides & slides, waves, rivers & pools…and this summer, plunge into the screaming blackness of Dr. Von Dark’s Tunnel of Terror, the first water ride of its kind in New England. You’ll sit face-to-face in a 2-person tube then descend into a twisting 40-foot plunge through a totally enclosed, totally dark tunnel. Along the way, a wicked tornado funnel will leave your head spinning and your fears in your throat! A work of evil genius, it’s a 300 foot trip into the dark side of thrills. We suggest to take advantage of the great dining and snack selection AFTER riding the Tunnel…www.watercountry.com The Out-to-Lunch Concerts on the Common series ~ which includes free, live concerts as well as a farmers’ market, food vendors, artists and crafters ~ runs from 12 – 2:00 p.m. on the common behind City Hall on June 29th, July 6th, 13th, 20th, and 27th, Aug. 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th and 31st. Definitely catch as many shows as you can, but make sure to mark July 13th on your calendar because that’s when roots music masters The Twangbusters will be performing ~ and you don’t want to miss their great mix of bluesy country, boogie woogie and barrelhouse! For more information, http://www. worcestermass.org/arts-culture-entertainment/artsculture/out-to-lunch-concerts-on-the-common Head out to Purgatory Chasm in Sutton to hike, rock climb, walk, take in some sun, and brave Fat Man’s Misery (or, if you’re like me, just pack a picnic and don’t stray too far from the ice cream truck). Visit www.mass. gov/dcr/parks/central/purg.htm for more info. Take a scenic ride out to Pioneer Valley and hike Mount Tom in Holyoke, MA ~ the trails are clearly marked and you can choose anything from a slow ascent to a killer climb. www.berkshirehiking.com/hikes has more info. CoCo Key is the area’s only 55,000 sq. ft. Indoor Water Resort complete with palm trees, splashes of bright colors and a year-round 84 degree temperature. With attractions like Shark Slam, Barracuda Blast & Pelican Plunge, Coconut Grove Adventure River, Coral Reef Cavern, and the Key Quest Arcade (when you decide to dry off to stop the shriveling!), how can you go wrong, especially since it’s all just a ½ hour drive from here. www.cocokeyfitchburg.com/attractions.asp
Championship, Festevole ~ an all day outdoor music festival, and an annual Brew Fest and BBQ…visit www. amesburysportspark.net for more. Paulie’s Nola Jazz and Blues Festival this year features Worcester’s own The Roadkill Orchestra among a line-up of great bands straight from New Orleans…it’s food, fun, friends, beer, music, and just a great way to spend the day outdoors. June 23 & 24, rain or shine, @ John & Son’s Urban Fairgrounds, 226 Chandler St. right here in the Woo. Saturday: 11:30 am - 12:00 am - festival gates open @ 11:00 am Sunday: 12:00 am - 9:30 pm - festival gates open @ 11:00 am. www.baevents.com/pauliesnolabluesand jazzfestival will tell you everything you need to know. Six Flags really doesn’t need an introduction, does it? It has just about every kind of ride for every kind of rider ~ from the most fearless daredevil just itching to take on Bizarro, the #1 coaster on the planet, to the more timid “I’ll-stick-to-the-carousel” type ~ it’s at Six Flags…and so is New England’s largest water park, Hurricane Harbor, along with great food, entertainment (don’t miss Flo Rida on June 3!), and special events. What’s summer without at least a day at this amazing amusement park??? www.sixflags.com/newengland 2012 ARTS ROCK! Summer Concerts at Goodale Park, West Boylston. This year there are five concerts planned: June 23 - Our Names Forever opening for Draw The Line July 7 - Hudlin opening for A Ton of Blues July 21 - Time Slips Daily opening for The Alchemystics August 4 - YOUTHS ROCK! Battle of the Bands with under-21 bands and feature artists/headliners Buddha Monk of the Wu Tang Clan, and “American Idol” contestant Ayla Brown August 18 - OSB opening for Powerplay Head to www.wbaf.org for more info!
Jazz at Sunset at The Ecotarium in Worcester: “If it’s Friday, it’s Jazz at Sunset,” one of Central MA’s’ best ideas for kicking off your weekend! For six weeks each summer, the EcoTarium is transformed into an outdoor concert venue unlike any other. Pack a picnic, come relax, and be treated to a series of not just jazz, but everything from zydeco to swing, too. www.ecotarium. org/events-activities/jazz-sunset
Tri-State Speedway in Dudley is a great place for kids and adults of all ages to spend the day ~ whiz through two floors of indoor thrills including a 22,000-squarefoot race track, bumper cars, a recently renovated arcade room, billiards tables, bowling, and an 18-hole mini golf course. When it’s time to refuel, make a pit stop at Drafters Sports Cafe to fill up on mozzarella sticks, Buffalo tenders, quesadilla rolls, and piping-hot pizza. Check out www.tristatespeedways.com for even more info, including how to join the weekly racing league.
Amesbury Sports Park in Amesbury, MA has some awesome summer fun in store ~ North America’s longest outdoor gravity orb (OGO) run two super fast, super fun summer tubing lanes, a Musical Chairs World
For even more suggestions on great ways to spend a summer day, head to www.thepulsemag.com!
Summer Style
Fun-n-Flirty for the Ladies, Funn-Functional for the Guys By Courtney E. Danielson LADIES
GUYS
Some of the best things about summer? Getting to show off some skin, getting to have a little bit more fun with your style, getting to bring out the bright colors. This season, three key fashion trends will help your summer look pop...and will put you in the mood for another great part of summer ~ summer romances!
For [most of] the guys, we don’t so much want to see “fun and flirty” as “functional.” Unlike their female counterparts, dudes tend to have an easier go of things in the fashion department. However, since men’s fashion is generally more laid back, sometimes putting together an outfit that’s has just the right amount of casual style seems to elude some guys. To help solve this problem, here’s a quick rundown of the Dos and Don’ts of a Dude’s Summer Style.
Neon ~ Bright colors are huge this season, but if you’re apprehensive about diving into such a statement-making trend, ease into it by starting with small accessories. A bright pink belt or ballerina flat will go a long way towards jazzing up your casual wear or adding a bit of interest to your work wardrobe. Feeling more adventurous and really ready to get noticed? Neon skinny jeans and shorts are the items of the moment. Pick your favorite hue and be sure to pair it with a neutral top. Embracing a trend is great, but the “less is more” approach tends to work best with such bold choices. Hitting the beach? This is when you can go all out with the neon trend. Get yourself a tan-enhancing neon bandeau bikini, a bright beach bag and flip flops, and hit the sand! Peplum ~ For a more subtle and structured trend, take a look at peplum embellishments. These hot details are ruffles or tiers added to skirts, shirts, and dresses to give them a hip, slightly retro look (which is nice and girly without going over the top...so you can flirt to your heart’s content!). Kate Middleton might seem prim and proper, but she knew just what she was doing when she sported peplum designs this spring! Bags ~ Clutches? Too small. Purses? Generally too fancy...and still too small. Oversized bags? Too...perfect! Big bright or patterned bags (or even a neutral color if you’re not into changing your bag with each outfit) are an excellent way to add character to your wardrobe ~ plus you can throw in everything you might need if that day trip turns overnight...bathing suit, towel, book, and even one of those clutches in case the guy of your dreams asks you out for an elegant dinner! Remember ~ if you’ve been keeping your “fashion freak” side under wraps all winter, now it’s time to let it out... almost anything goes during the summer, so have FUN with your style!!
Don’ts Jean Shorts ~ These aren’t cute. At any length. Ever. I don’t care if they’re comfortable, they should be considered illegal. If you own a pair, don’t admit to it, just quietly toss them out. Socks with Sandals ~ First of all, you shouldn’t really be wearing sandals anyway. Flip-flops are definitely all right, but sandals...uh, NO. But, if you are (for some inexplicable reason) wearing sandals, please don’t also wear socks. It’s weird. And you will NEVER turn heads in a good way. Unless you’re looking to attract a grandmother. Bedazzled...Anything ~ This tip goes for all seasons. There is nothing attractive about a man in sparkles. If your shirt has elaborate designs on it that’s fine (generally), but the minute you added sparkles it became obnoxious ~ and you run the risk of being asked how long you’ve been a Disney On Ice performer. Dos Khaki Shorts ~ I know that you probably feel restricted now that I’ve given you one pair of acceptable shorts to wear, but khaki comes in a variety of colors (light, dark, green, blue, etc), so you don’t have to feel like your freedom of expression has gone out the window. And there are pockets...and pockets come in handy for phones, keys, wallets, breath mints... Aviators ~ There is nothing hotter than a guy in aviators. Seriously. They come in a few different styles, and a variety of colors, so there is definitely a pair out there that will help up the hot-factor. Plus, they protect your eyes from the sun’s harmful UV rays. A win/win! Always Wear a Shirt ~ Just because it’s summer doesn’t mean it’s okay for you to go wandering around shirtless. Even the hottest of hot guys looks awkward walking down Main Street with no shirt. Save the topless stuff for the
Best Places to Enjoy Outdoor Dining Worcester
Holden
Ceres at The Beechwood Hotel
Val’s Restaurant
Flying Rhino
The Mill
Via
Cheoy Lee’s
Red Lantern
Spencer
Lakeside Grille
Black and White
Perfect Game
Sterling
The Banner
Blacksheep Tavern
Dugan’s Square One The Cigar Bar
West Boylston
140 Club Brookfield
Citizen
Carmella’s Italian Kitchen
The Parkway
Leominster
Uno’s
Lidio’s
Pho Dakao
Mezcal
Nu Cafe
Luxury Box
Lago
Fitchburg
Piccolo
The Boulder
Tweeds
Beemers Pub
El Basha, Belmont St.
Bangkok Hill Thai
Nuovo Grille 57 LaScala Mezcal Cafe Espresso Grill on the Hill Smokestack Urban BBQ West Side BBQ Biagio’s Brew City Shrewsbury Buca de Beppo Wiliker’s Tex Mex & BBQ
June 2012
Lunenburg On the Rocks Godfrey’s Grill Webster Point Breeze
And don’t forget Taste of Shrewsbury Street on 6/19 from 5-9pm (tasteshrewsbury street.com) and the Big Dipper Ice Cream Festival (childrensfriend. org)at Elm Park on 6/30 from 10:30am5:30pm!
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For On-the-Go Gamers By Katey Khaos
Whether it’s a long car or plane ride or waiting in line at an amusement park, let’s face it ~ there’s only so much Facebooking that can be done before you’re bored out of your mind reading the same statuses over and over. (Don’t forget, however, that a lot of Facebook games like Words with Friends and Draw Something are now available for mobile devices!) But, while you’re waiting for your friends to make their move, here are four games that are must-haves to keep your gamer mind (and fingers) happy during down time this summer! Robot Unicorn Attack: A classic. Play as a unicorn and leap and dash through the sky in pursuit of your dreams to the tune of “Always” by Erasure. It’s an easy pick-up-and-play game that’s great whether you have five minutes, or a half hour to play. $.99 | App Store | Android Market Peggle: Very, very addicting. This mobile game is sure to keep you entertained for hours. (You’ll see what I mean once you get started!) Shoot to clear sets of orange pegs from over fifty different levels. $2.99 | App Store | Android Market Plants vs. Zombies: A slower paced puzzle game. A mob of zombies is about to invade your home. Use an arsenal of 49 zombie-zapping plants destroy 26 types of zombies before they break down your door. This is a great game when you need to pass some time. $2.99 | App Store | Android Market Oregon Trail: Yes, that computer game you loved playing at recess has gone mobile! This is a great game for group car rides because everyone in the car can be a character in the game ~ and the driver can participate, too! $.99 | App Store | Android Market Minecraft: Pocket Edition: The ultimate geek-on-the-go game, and great for long trips. Build virtually anything in this handheld version of the ever-popular Minecraft. Multiplayer is even available for people on the same wireless connection! $6.99 | App Store | Android Market (Lite free version also available!) There are hundreds of other games in both the App Store and the Android Market, so before you plan your next trip, download some new games to keep yourself busy!
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…and this is an App, not a game, but it’s kind of cool so we thought we’d share it with you in this section anyway: Tweet-A-Beer A new mobile app, Tweet-A-Beer, now allows you to treat your friend to a beer! The Tweet-A-Beer app was developed by “tenfour” and Waggener Edstorm and just debuted at the SXSW at Austin, Texas. This app works only if both the treater and the friend have a Twitter and a Paypal account. Since it is still physically not possible to send a chilled beer over the internet, this app powered by Chirpify (a Twitter payment app), allows you to do the next best thing. When you Tweet-A-Beer, you transfer $5 into the Paypal account of your friend. You can also add the name, place and time of the pub you would want to get together at, to make good on your offer.Tweet-A-Beer, is like an online gift card for beer. Now you can treat your friends to a beer anytime you want, even your out-of-town friends!
Get Your Pool Ready for a Party!
Best Beach Books
By Steph Moore
In Chad Harbach’s The Art of Fielding, college baseball is the backdrop to a story about the way lives intersect on a Wisconsin college campus. When star pitcher Henry makes one ill-fated throw, no one can foresee the consequences. The book tackles self-doubt, commitment, ambition, and ~ of course ~ baseball.
Port-O-Pong So you’re having a party and need some extra entertainment in the pool. Why not add PortO-Pong, the pool version of the party game beer pong. Just add cups and your favorite party beverage. Available in blue and pink – the game possibilities are endless. Please drink responsibly around a swimming pool, and watch swimmers closely. Swim-up Black Jack Table One more for those who like a little card playing with their pool time. With our Swimup Black Jack table, you can enjoy an afternoon in Vegas without leaving your own backyard! Includes waterproof playing cards and poker chips. Casino style gaming or just a relaxed game of Go-Fish while in the pool is a great way to spend time with friends and family. Floating blackjack table is multi-purpose! Flipped over and it can become a floating hors d’oeuvre buffet! Or a place to hold a book while you float on a pool raft. Both of the above are available at www.intheswim.com!
By Stephanie Monahan Heading to the beach or for a weekend of camping? Take a look at these books, you might just want to bring one with you!
Already read The Hunger Games and looking for more well-written, action-packed YA dystopia? Good news ~ the second book in Lauren Oliver’s Delirium trilogy, Pandemonium, has just been released. In a world where doctors have found the cure to love, Lena can’t wait to receive her governmentmandated treatment when she turns eighteen. Then she meets Alex. Katie, the main character in Catherine McKenzie’s Spin, doesn’t think she has a drinking problem ~ until she shows up drunk for an interview for her dream job. The incident propels her into a secret assignment for a top music magazine and Katie finds herself in rehab, embroiled in a complicated relationship with a celebrity and struggling with a moral dilemma she can see no way out of unscathed.
A Giant, Water-Friendly Beanbag Plopping down on a giant beanbag pillow is always good for relaxing. So is chilling out in the pool. And you can do both at the same time with the King Kai Pool Float. Unlike regular pool floats, this one is made with foam beads -- just like those form-hugging beanbags you still keep in the basement. Because of that, it doesn’t sit stiff, adjusting to fit your form and giving you one heck of a comfy surface for those hot, sunny afternoons.
Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Coast Trail is a memoir by Cheryl Strayed, who, at twenty-two, feels as if her life is coming apart. In a last-ditch effort to reclaim a part of her that’s gone missing, she decides to hike an eleven-hundred-mile trail through the Mojave Desert and three states. Only problem? She’s never backpacked long distances before, and she’s doing it alone.
The King Kai Pool Float is a water-treading pillow filled with buoyant versions of the body-hugging stuff they fill up your Fatboy Metahlowski with. Body is decked in sunbrella canvas, a stain- and mold-resistant material that keeps cool even after an entire day of lounging in the sun. It comes with an easy-access drain for quickly drying once you’re off the pool, along with a built-in strap and water-proof grommets for tying off when not in use. Measuring 60 x 75 inches, it can squeeze up to two skinny people, keeping them afloat while they relax in peaceful slumber at the local dumpster pool. And when you’re done with the water, you can fish it out onto solid ground and haul it to the living room for a round on the Xbox 360. Yep, it can work as a regular beanbag, too. Made by Brookstone, the King Kai Pool Float might be a little pricier than those plastic inflatables you’re used to ~ but it’s a two-person beanbag and float in one, which should adequately make the case for the $249.95 price. Gigantic Donut Pool Float The cool new Gigantic Donut Pool Float is an inflatable inner tube pool float that is appropriately shaped like a donut with frosting, sprinkles, and a huge bite missing. In the entire history of pool float rings, why has this never existed ‘til now?? Available at www.perpetualkid.com.
Mystery fans will be taken for a ride in William Landay’s Defending Jacob. Middlesex County assistant DA Andy Barber has it all: a great job, a strong marriage, a good relationship with his son, Jacob, and a perfect life in Newton. Then a local teenager is found dead and Jacob is charged with murder. The good father, Andy is sure his son is innocent…then facts begin to unravel, and Andy wonders if he really knows Jacob at all.
For the complete Summer Fun cover story, head to www.thepulsemag.com! June 2012
| THEPULSEMAG.COM 11
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ENTERTAINMENT
Bhurin Sead of Blue Man Group By Tine Roycroft
Blue Man Group will be rushing into Worcester’s Hanover Theatre in June, bringing with them incredible music, waves of color, passionate emotions...and some of the coolest things you’ve ever seen. The show has been described by some viewers as “life-changing,” and has been credited with inspiring people to go to college, participate in more community outreach, and just be better people in general. And Blue Man Bhurin Sead is a part of this theatrical glory. “One of the great things about [the Blue Man] is that he’s got this great sense of childlike curiosity and wonder. Amazing innocence,” Sead says of his character. “He never takes anything for granted and he’s willing to take risks.” According to Sead, the upcoming production will include giant LED video walls upon which various moving screens and images will be projected. The Blue Men will be interacting with the entire set, which is basically like a giant iPad. “The Blue Men are experiencing our culture’s fascination with these handheld devices and touch screens,” explains Sead, 30. “There’s a lot of music, a lot of paint ~ some people say the show is like an exploding box of crayons. But with all of the high-tech, there are many low-tech, sincere and quiet moments that people are drawn to as well.” Sead came to be a part of the group when he auditioned in his home state of Texas. He’d played in a few high school bands, dabbled in theatre during college at the University of Texas, and holds a degree in Human Biology. He had no expectations heading into the auditions, he just wanted to give it a try. After two attempts, he was accepted into training in New York City. But success was not guaranteed. Sead says that at any time during training, a prospective member can be asked to leave if he is not progressing. But Sead had the chops
and soon he was putting on a bald cap, blue grease paint, the black pajama-like costume and hitting the stage. “It’s a lot of fun to live in the moment and to try to respond and be sensitive to the audience’s needs,” Sead says. “To this day, that’s the best part of the show ~ trying to figure out what this collective group of people need each night.” And if incredible talent and a great outlook on life weren’t reason enough to love Sead, then adore him because he freely admits that even after his four years as a Blue Man, he is still likely to walk out of a venue after a show with smudges of blue grease paint behind his ears. If you can soak in one theatrical experience this year, make it the Blue Man Group. They’ll be taking control of the Hanover stage on June 8, 9, and 10. Tickets are between $38 - $68 and can be purchased online at www.hanovertheatre.org. Discounts may be available.
June 2012
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B.D.M. Productions
Local DJs Form New Live Production Company By Jason Savio
expression,” explains Nibur. “We’re planning some dance routines as part of the performance that we hope to seamlessly integrate with the DJ’s sets on stage to turn the electronic show into more of a planned performance than just a DJ spinning.” Performances like what B.D.M. has in store of course require work, and the performers are responsible for a significant portion of it. Every performer under the BDM umbrella lends his own special talent and expertise to different aspects behind the scenes to help make the shows possible. “Currently all of the members of BDM contribute behind the scenes to the greater organizing and execution of our events,” says Nibur, “They work on everything from promotion and graphic design, to building our sets and organizing the show.”
What happens when artists ban together to form their own production company? For an answer in action take a look at upstart Massachusetts-based group BDM. Once a small and exclusive DJ crew, the constantly evolving group has set its sights on becoming a full-blown organization of self-sufficient artists after the recent success of their first gig, “BDM Presents: Adventure Time,” at The Raven in Worcester. BDM’s goal is clear: they want to deliver a show that will blow your mind. At its core, B.D.M. has become a live event production company, but in reality it strives to be much more. Not only does it aim to offer live music, it also wants to provide a vehicle for people to express all forms of art and performance. “B.D.M. is a visual and performing arts group that produces art events that incorporate a wide sweep of different forms of artistic expression,” explains Ross Nibur, the group’s acting general manager. “We hope to blur the line between these different forms of art and expose people to an entirely new kind of artistic experience.” That “new” kind of experience is anchored down by the music of BDM’s resident DJs. “Right now the events we’re planning all have a focus in the growing electronic music scene, but we’ve been working on incorporating other forms of artistic
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The importance of the connection between the artist and their platform is at the forefront of BDM’s decision making. From there, everything else falls into place. Creating an authentic link between the artist and the production helps make BDM a grass-roots organization that knows exactly what the audience wants and promises to provide it. Check them out at: www.facebook.com/djbdm.
I’ll Wear Your Crown SiN
By Jason Savio All of us at some point fantasize about being in our favorite rock band. Whether you’re playing air guitar in your bedroom or on your way home from work “singing” out loud to the radio, the feeling is universal; we idolize rock stars. Unfortunately for most of us, our dreams of tearing it up onstage in our favorite bands and taking over the world one city at a time will remain fantasy. But, a group of local musicians have created the next best thing ~ their own tribute band to their favorite group, The Stone Temple Pilots. The members of SiN are living out their dream and playing their favorite songs live onstage for an audience every night. Many of the members had played in other tribute bands before joining together, but they have always returned to STP. “We have always just loved STP, we have such a good feel for playing their music that we can execute it very well,” says guitarist Shane Quintilio, “Playing STP for some reason comes very naturally to us: the sound, the feel, the pulse of the beat, it’s just right there inside us waiting to be wailed out on.” STP, one of the ‘90’s most successful rock bands, has a large catalog of songs to sort through, but no matter if they’re playing one of the group’s sixteen top-ten hits or one of their lesser-known cuts, SiN delivers every time. “The quality of the music deserves to be heard and we are meticulous about sounding just like them,” says singer Chris MacDonald. So for all the STP fans out there, you no longer have to wait for the real Scott Weiland and Co. to schedule a show here ~ just listen for the heavy, pounding thunder of SiN taking over a bar near you for your STP fix. Catch SiN at one of their upcoming shows: Oasis, Fusion 5, The Red Onion, and The Grog. For more info, head to www.reverbnation.com/sinstp.
By Katey Khaos
Describing who I’ll Wear Your Crown is is simple: Teddy Desimone (vocals), Liam Geary (guitar/vocals), Tom Osgood (bass), Josh Kuhn (drums), and Eric Smith (synth/ programming). Describing what I’ll Wear Your Crown sounds like isn’t quite as easy. “All of us would probably answer [what genre we fall under] with something different. We have a bold sound and we aren’t afraid to stick to a particular genre the entire time. If I had to put a name on it though, I’d say we a mostly a post-hardcore band,” Eric says. For an idea of how wide a range these guys can play, listen to “From Above the Clouds.” This track has everything from brutal breakdowns to technical guitar to a super melodic chorus. The best part? The combination results in an amazing song. “From Above the Clouds” is just one of the tracks to be released on their soon-to-befinished EP. In the meantime, I’ll Wear Your Crown keep their fans entertained with what they like to call “Forizzle Fridays.” “These are videos we post every Friday on our Facebook of things like covers, acoustic versions of our originals, or studio updates for our new EP,” Teddy explains. “To us, it’s all about having fun. We just want to play shows, share our music, and have fun, and that’s exactly what we’re doing,” the band says. For more I’ll Wear Your Crown, visit their Facebook, www.facebook.com/ illwearyourcrown?ref=ts, and search “I’ll Wear Your Crown” on YouTube to watch some of those “Forizzle Fridays” videos!
Pathogenic By Katey Khaos If you’re anything like me, three days at New England Metal and Hardcore Fest wasn’t nearly enough to feed your metal addiction. Thankfully, Pathogenic ~ who actually played this year’s NEMHF ~ plays some of the best local metal Massachusetts has to offer. Pathogenic is Chris Gardino (guitar), Justin Licht (guitar), Dan Leahy (bass), Anthony Simone (drums) and Jake Burns (vocals). “We draw on the entire spectrum of influences available to us, whether metal or not. We don’t try to fit a certain sound, if we like what we’re playing we’ll go with it,” the band says. That refreshing take on the metal scene is evident in their first full-length album entitled Cyclopean. The songs range from talking about the expansion of consciousness as well as sleep to the insignificance of the human race. The track “Rapid Eye Movement” is a perfect example of the talent ~ both lyrically and musically ~ this band possesses. Pathogenic is also working on an untitled EP which should be out this summer. “Our new material definitely blows Cyclopean out of the water,” the band admits. Be sure to catch these guys when they play Worcester Deathfest at The Palladium on June 10th, and the Raven on July 8th. In the meantime, visit their Facebook page for more info on the band, as well as to check out Cyclopean. www.facebook.com/Pathogenicband http://pathogenic.bandcamp.com
June 2012
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PULSE
Books
Nathaniel Connors’ Revelation: Creatures Rule the Night By Alex Kantarelis
Fitchburg writer Nathaniel Connors has published his first book, Revelation: Creatures Rule the Night, and with it created a futuristic sci-fi horror with a story so addicting that it had me staying up an hour later each night just to cram a few extra chapters in before bed. Set in the year 2246, the book follows main character Jonathan Armand, the last member of a family made up of generations of warriors. It is his destiny to be a leader and a fighter. Early on, the story takes us to Star Base Academy, where Armand is a senior gearing up for graduation. Here we get to know our characters through their totally casual dialogue written so well by Connors. Even though the setting is several hundred years in the future, the characters have a certain realness to them. They are very relatable, and as we get to know them more, it’s very easy to feel a certain love for them, especially for Armand. “There’s something very human and real about him,” the 34 year old Connors said, describing Armand. “I wanted him to be your every day guy. He’s a soldier but you don’t look at him as this massive warrior,” he added. The plot turns into a roller-coaster ride as the story places us right in the middle of a futuristic war on Mars. The Mars scenes are described in a way that really puts you on the red planet. Things continue to worsen for the characters as the story delves into a horrific post apocalyptic nightmare where Armand has to find a way to save humanity, battling forces that aren’t exactly human. Connors has managed to place us in his futuristic apocalyptic world (or I should say universe) with great ease. He paints a clear picture of what is going on and gives us just enough information so that we can fill in the gaps ourselves. He uses very simple situations to help us relate to the characters on a personal level. “One of my favorite things in the book was describing how they hang out in the cafeteria,” Connors said. “I try to make it so that people can relate.” Connors makes us care about the characters, which makes the story so much more intense. This is only part 1 of 3 parts of this story. Connors plans on releasing the 2nd book later this year, and the 3rd will be coming up after that. I am very excited to see where the sequel takes the story. Head to Amazon. com (where the book is available in both paperback and for Kindle) or BarnesandNoble.com to purchase Revelation: Creatures Rule the Night. And keep your eyes on Nathaniel Connors. He’s going to give us great things in the future. http://nathanielconnors.com www.facebook.com/nathanielconnors THIS JUST IN! Connors will be doing a book signing at Federal Street Books, 8 Federal St., Greenfield, MA on Saturday, June 23rd from 10am2pm.
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PULSE
Flicks
Oxford Native Nicole Fitzpatrick and Astropiano Films By Joshua Lyford
Oxford is a small community located just outside of Worcester. Mostly famous for being a quaint and quiet, beneath that surface there are definitely some diamonds in the rough. Nicole Fitzpatrick, one of those gems, became interested in acting when she saw her older sister’s high school musical production of “Pippin.” “At nine years old, I didn’t understand the mature themes and racy innuendos,” recalls Fitzpatrick. “But I was captivated by the singing, dancing and magic of it all.” From there, Fitzpatrick auditioned for a small role at the local high school, got it, and never looked back. She went on the take classes, enroll and perform at Bridgewater State as an acting major, and even earn nominations in acting scholarships in several productions. Though Oxford is a small town, Fitzpatrick says that “There is a sense of community that may not be found in other towns.” As far as pursuing acting, she believes being a resident of Massachusetts helped her, as her lifelong passion eventually led her to another MA native who would prove very important to her fledgling career. Shannon Carter is an actress and writer from north of Boston. She is the writer of Mark of the Dog Rose, an upcoming film from Astropiano Films. Carter and the director of Mark of the Dog Rose had worked together previously on the film Sunblocked and they had decided that Carter would spearhead the writing on this project.
“I wanted to write a film that would have people on the edge of their seats trying to figure out who did it,” Carter says. “What I really love about [the film] is that it is a totally creepy film without all of the Hollywood gore.” Carter has been writing since she was six years old and has wanted to be an actress since she was three. She has been cast in some major Hollywood film, including The Social Network, Bride Wars and Surrogates. To say that Nicole Carter knows something about casting would be an understatement. “Nicole is a total sweetheart and was a pleasure to have on set,” Carter remembers. “She is a great actress! After she came in for the audition we all looked at each other and said, ‘This is our Bridget!” This speaks volumes about Nicole and her acting chops and the feeling goes both ways. Fitzpatrick says, “Working with Jess [Cook, the director] and Shannon has been amazing. They are so devoted to their work, it is truly inspiring.”
Mark of the Dog Rose is a gripping thriller that about a serial killer who targets college campuses, abducting girls and leaving behind a dog rose flower. While you wait for the release, check out the official trailer on YouTube and keep up to date with what is going on at Facebook.com/MarkoftheDogRose. Photo: Nicole Fitzpatrick
June 2012
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ON CD MELT’s Armageddon Party By Jennifer Russo
You have to admire the idea that if there were an Armageddon, there would be a group of people partying it up in the streets, listening to and performing good music even though the sky was raining fire. I can only hope that I would be one of those few. MELT’s latest CD offering, Armageddon Party, is hard to define. Each song is very different from the other in both style and feel. The title song instantly made me think of what it might sound like to be at the wedding of Pink Floyd and Radiohead, while the song “Supersonic” gave me an anthem-like 80s rock feel. “Draggin Me Down” busted out some punk vibes while the next song, “Glory Box,” mellowed almost to a seductive jazz level, with a sultry vocal, steady beat and astounding guitar solo. So after giving it some thought, the album is what I would conservatively call modern groove music. Vocalist Lindsey Kyte’s ability at the mic is amazing.
Tim Myers’ Techinicolor
The music on Armageddon Party is incredibly diverse. I think the best thing to do while listening to this album is look through a kaleidoscope and let your mind venture off into its own little world. See MELT perform at Radio Bar in Somerville on June 28th, visit their official website at www. meltmusicrocks.com, and see their NEGB1 “Behind the Scenes” video at http://vimeo.com/33706716.
By Jason Savio
tune that both thematically and musically echoes Iggy Pop’s “Lust For Life”), but are saved from copycatting by Myers’ voice and unique style.
Singer/songwriter and ex-OneRepublic bassist Tim Myers is making a name for himself by taking a page from the 21st century songbook and creating heavily produced, quick flashes of ear-worm magic. The results on his solo debut Technicolor are undeniable guilty pleasures that show up to the party quickly and try to leave before wearing out their welcome. Most make it out of the door in time, a very few don’t.
If all the cheer is too much for you, then there is the unusually placed dark-psychedelic “Black Jesus” that, when compared with the rest of the songs on the album, is the musical equivalent of inviting Pennywise to be the clown at your kid’s birthday party. The most inspired, however, is “The Fall” ~ a track that has more heart than anything else here.
Myers has a good ear for crafting uplifting pop nuggets like the tight symphonic bop “Under Control” (which is getting major radio play all across the country) and the sing-along “Come Alive.” Intentional or not, a couple of the songs sound somewhat similar to other hits both past and present (see “Creatures Of The Night,” that sounds like a cousin to the recent Neon Trees’ smash “Animal” and “Life’s A Party,” a
Although the slick gleam may make it often transparent, the happy sounds and good vibes of Technicolor are a welcome change of pace from the tension tightened palette of most modern music and Myers shows strong solo potential.
The Veer Union’s Divide The Blackened Sky
single, “Bitter End.” The driving palm-mutes during the verses build a sense of urgency that erupts in raunchy guitar riffs that contrast well with the melodic vocals in the bridge.
At first listen, The Veer Union’s third full-length release, Divide The Blackened Sky (a majority of which was self-produced, written and recorded by the band, with production on the first single, “Bitter End,” handled by world-renowned producer Brian Howes [Nickelback, Hinder, Skillet, Puddle Of Mudd, Rev Theory]) might sound like a Nickelback-Daughtry collaboration; give it a second listen, though, and you’ll realize that, thankfully, it’s much, much more.
The overall production of this ten-song juggernaut is spot-on for this type of record. The middle of the album opens up sonically with “Inside Our Scars.” The band slows it down and lets the guitars sound less compressed, leading one to assume the highly compressed tones on the other tracks are intentional and possibly done to make this edgy record more palatable to a wider audience. “Live Another Day” showcases drummer Neil Beaton’s busy stick work and stands out on an album that is generally straightforward in the rhythm department. This Vancouver powerhouse will continue to please current fans with Divide The Blackened Sky and undoubtedly earn them new ones, as the majority of the album’s songs are catchy and the perfect length for radio play.
By Alvin Benjamin Carter III
Although faced with significant adversity ~ including a revolving lineup, label changes and more ~ The Veer Union’s two mainstays, vocalist Crispin Earl and guitarist Eric Schraeder, have persevered to create Divide The Blackened Sky. They’ve crafted a highly energized, highly produced album that starts things off with opening song “Borderline,” which has a glossy rock feel with vocals reminiscent of the modern rock radio of the early 2000s; amongst other things, the guitar tone sounds big and yet overly compressed at the same time. This style of dynamic loud rock prevails throughout the entire record (with a bit of a departure n the middle), coming to a head early with the album’s second song and first
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She attacks each song with a great range and a beautiful vibrato reminiscent of Jefferson Airplane’s Grace Slick and a tone that made me think of Enya here and there. The band, too, can hold their own with a very distinctive style. Now that I have heard them, I would know them if I heard them again ~ a level of recognition that all bands want. Kyte is backed by a drummer who takes on the challenge of playing standard beats and also throwing in some world art sounds. Guitar and bass contribute beautiful and soulful melodies.
For more info please visit: www.myspace.com/timmyersmusic
Check out a teaser video for “Borderline” at http:// youtu.be/-DYm7DgI2nU, and download the TVU iPhone App for free at http://itunes.apple.com/app/ theveerunion/id505826683?mt=8. theveerunion.com, facebook.comtheveerunion
ON CD The Cult’s Choice of Weapon By Alvin Benjamin Carter III
Choice of Weapon, The Cult’s ninth studio album, does not disappoint ~ musically or thematically. The opening track, “Honey From a Knife,” announces the Brit rockers (Billy Duffy, Chris Wyse, Ian Astbury, and John Tempesta) are back and ready to shake things up. The harmonies are stellar and the guitar tone is classic. The second song, “Elemental Light,” successfully incorporates elements reminiscent of Velvet Underground and U2, and once again the guitar tone is spot-on and the vocals magnetic. “Embers” is a somber journey that evokes an image of an Englishman down by the bayou; the mournful slide guitar sets the tone in a simple yet masterful way. The entire album is very specific and is particularly appealing to those of us who have been enamored of the band’s work for years, but newcomers to The Cult will appreciate the tracks as well ~ and will likely be inspired to go back and listen to the rest of the band’s impressive catalog. Each track is unmistakably The Cult, with the flamboyant Astbury’s vocals as strong as ever; there is a similarity amongst all the tracks, but it actually works in the album’s favor by making it cohesive.
One of the more uplifting tunes on the record is “Every Man and Woman Is a Star.” The hook begs for an arena full of fans to sing along during a prolonged breakdown led by Astbury. Rounding out the album is the gurgling, bass-laden “Siberia.” The track, with its carefully constructed dissonance, sums up the vibe of the album with its contrasting emotions. In many ways, as with The Cult’s previous albums, Choice of Weapon hearkens back to their epic debut, Dreamtime, but offers listeners a more mature, passionate, album with a more focused point of view; in other words, the band doesn’t rest on its decade of laurels, but instead reveals its maturation. The album puts other bands who rose to prominence in the 80s on notice by laying out the blueprint on how to maintain their signature style without sacrificing musical growth. Catch The Cult live on June 5 at HoB in Boston and on June 9 at the Hampton Beach Casino Ballroom. Check out band’s film clip for the single “For The Animals,” which reflects the band’s views on the today’s socially and economically divided world: http://bit.ly/ thecultfortheanimals thecult.us www.facebook.com/officialcult www.myspace.com/thecult
Demons Alley’s Dead End Tricks
Things kick off with the high energy and catchy track “Dope City,” which has an intro reminiscent of KISS’s “Love Gun.” As the tracks keep rolling, the rock never stops as each song is crafted to keep the energy up at a rock club ~ or in your car.
Worcester’s Demons Alley have been spreading their style of 80s influenced rock ‘n’ roll all around the Northeast since their inception in 2006. Combining elements of bands like Kiss, Motley Crue, and the New York Dolls (with a dash of Ramones ~ and even The Runaways! ~ from time to time) to form their classic but yet still heavy sound, these guys put on one hell of a stage show ~ and has captured that energy on their first full length release, Dead End Tricks.
Track 9, “In My Sight,” has a punk rock vibe, and sounds like something The Misfits would definitely approve of, and opens up the door for a stand out track, “Dirty Girl,” which has my favorite opening riff on the album. Sometimes a riff can speak louder than a chorus, and “Dirty Girl” nails one of those riffs.
By Alex Kantarelis
All you have to do is take a look at the back cover of the CD ~ a picture of the long-haired, eyeliner-loving band hanging at Ralph’s ~ to know what you’re in for; the photo captures a grittiness that in many ways defines the band’s sound.
The songs have a certain catchiness and very appealing rawness that sounds authentic, not over-produced in a studio. Demons Alley have a natural sound, not 600 layers of auto-tuned vocals with electronic dance squealy noises (you know what I’m talking about). I give the album credit for actually sounding like it came from 1984 ~ kind of as if we’d stepped into Marty McFly’s time machine and set course back to when rock n rock was real…a little sleazy, a little rough, a little in-your-face, and absolutely addictive. Demons Alley would be right at home opening for Aerosmith at Sir Morgan’s Cove back in the day or playing a club in the East Village, so we should all be glad that we have a real rock band like DA right in our own backyards. Head to www.myspace.com/demonsalley, www.facebook.com/pages/DemonsAlley/131250284214, catch the band live at Ralph’s on June 23rd, and definitely pick up a copy of Dead End Tricks.
June 2012
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Closure By Katey Khaos
Closure, a game that initially debuted as a free black and white Flash game back in 2009, and that was produced by a team of just three people, has proudly made its way to the PSN. Each level of Closure is shrouded in darkness with only a few bright spots scattered around. Light is your friend in this game, whether you’re playing a little girl, a construction worker, or yes, even a demon. Without it, you would simply find yourself in an empty abyss. Shine a beam of light on a small piece of platform, however, and you have something to stand on. The levels in Closure start out fairly basic, but as the game progresses become increasingly more difficult. For example, small spotlights have to be adjusted so that the light shines in just the right place so you don’t find yourself falling into the darkness. It’s similar to the game mechanics in Echochrome, where placement is everything and one slip of the thumb can mean certain death. The gameplay is sharp and inventive, making you think about finding the way out, even though there are times when you have to dig to find the answers. That’s the mark of a true puzzle platformer. Like any puzzle game, there are definitely times where Closure can get tough, but keep in mind that no puzzle is ever impossible. In most cases, the best way to find a solution is through
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good ol’ trial-and-error. A lot of games have been utilizing this technique lately ~ like Limbo.
One of my favorite aspects of Closure is the fact that it provides ample rewards via Trophies, with multiple ones available depending on how far you’re willing to work in certain puzzle situations. There are several to unlock here, and they’re all worth your while, provided you don’t slam down your controller in frustration first (just calm down and THINK). For a game with only three developers, Closure is sensational. The only complaint that I, or anyone else who sees the game in the PSN would have, is the price. Don’t get me wrong, after shelling out the $15, I can see why the game is priced that way ~ it’s worth every penny ~ but others might not be as willing. If you’re one of those “Try it before you buy it” gamers, there’s a demo available. I will warn you, though, the game does get addictive, and you’ll most likely be adding funds to your wallet before you know it. http://closuregame.com
Park Ave.
June 2012
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NORTH COUNTY • DINING • ENTERTAINMENT • NIGHTLIFE • SHOPPING •
NORTH COUNTY • DINING • ENTERTAINMENT • NIGHTLIFE • SHOPPING •
NORTH COUNTY • DINING • ENTERTAINMENT • NIGHTLIFE
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• NORTH COUNTY • DINING • ENTERTAINMENT • NIGHTLIFE • SHOPPING NORTH COUNTY • DINING • ENTERTAINMENT • NIGHTLIFE • SHOPPING •
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Club & Pub Listings
Happenings at clubs, bars, pubs, coffee houses, & other select venues ATTENTION CLUB OWNERS!!
All listings MUST be entered into Social Web (socialweb.net) NO LATER than June 15th to be included in our June print issue. 3-G’s Sports Bar 152 Millbury St., Worc.,508-754-3516 Fri. DJ Sat. Open Mike Comedy Mon. Karaoke w/ Mike Rossi Thur. Karaoke American Graffiti 113 Summer St., Lunenburg, 978-345-1010 Banner Pub, The 112 Green St., Worc., 508-755-0879 Wed. thru Jun 27 Sam James Thur. thru Jun 28 Ricky Duran Bar 2011 274 Shrewsbury St. Worcester Barber’s Crossing Road House 861 Main St., Leicester, 508-892-7575 Barbers Crossing (North) 175 Leominster Rd., Sterling 978-422-8438, barberscrossing.com Thur. Karaoke Beatnik’s 433 Park Ave., Worc. 508-926-8877, beatniksbeyou.com Wed. Urban Blues w/ Brad Faucher & a rotating roster of local/regional musicians Jun 5 Beatnik’s Indie Art Market Jun 7 Filthy Still, Carrie Nation & The Speakeasy, Slackeye Slim Jun 8 Big Ol’ Dirty Bucket Jun 9 Rico Moon Band Featuring Tony Soul Jun 14 Ukulele June Edition with Rich “Amazing Dick” Leufstedt Jun 15 Clamdigger Jun 16 Soulshot, Riki Rocksteady & The Arraignments Jun 21 The Not So Late Show with Shaun Connolly and The Over-Qualified Band Jun 22 Gorilla Radio Jun 28 The Smile Makers, Jacob Haller Jun 29 Don’t Let Go Jun 30 The Delta Generators Beemer’s Pub 114 River St., Fitchburg,978-343-3148 Black Sheep Tavern 261 Leominster Rd., Sterling, 978-422-8484 Thur. thru Jun 28 wildcard Thursdays Fri., Sat. thru Jun 30 Live Bands Sun. thru Jun 24 A Ton of Blues Jun 30 The City Boys Band w/ Johnny Romance & The Captain Blackstone Tap 81 Water St., Worc. 508-797-4827,blackstonetap.com BLU Ultralounge & Nightclub 105 Water St., Worc. 508-756-2227, blu-nightclub.com Blue Plate Lounge 661 Main St., Holden, 508-829-4566 hometown.aol.com/blueplatelounge Jun 8 Cosmic Slim & His Intergalactic Plowboys Jun 15 Ric Porter and The Sons of The Soil Jun 29 “Freakout Friday” f/ Suzy Creamcheese & The Muffin Stumps Boiler Room 70 Winter St., Worc.
Bolton Roadhouse Bar & Grille 544 Wattaquodock Rd., Bolton 978-365-5757, 978-365-3036 Boulder Cafe 880 Main St., Fitchburg, 978-345-0008 Jun 8 Chris Reddy Acoustic Loops from Hell Breakaway Billiards 104 Sterling St., Clinton, 978-365-6105 .myspace.com/breakawaybilliardsclinton Thur. thru Jun 28 Karaoke Brew City 104 Shrewsbury St., Worc. 508-752-3862, www.brew-city.com Bull Run Restaurant 215 Great Rd, Shirley 978-425-4311,bullrunrestaurant.com Jun 8 Sarah Lee Guthrie and Johnny Irion Jun 9 7Horse (Joie Calio & Phil Leavitt of DADA)
PULSEPick Chris Isaak performs live at Indian Ranch in Webster on Saturday, June 30 @ 2pm as part of the 2012 Summer Concert Series Jun 15 Southside Johnny & the Poor Fools Jun 17 Paul Thorn Jun 22 The Flatlanders - Joe Ely, Jimmie Dale Gilmore and Butch Hancock Jul 1 Hot Tuna - Brunch Show Jul 1 Hot Tuna - Dinner Show Cafe Destare 320 Main St., Fitchburg 978-345-5734, destare.com Thur. Destaré’s Teacher Thursdays Cantina Bar & Grill 385 Main St., Worc. 508-459-5325, cantinaworcester.com
Classic’s Pub 285 Central St., Leominster 978-537-7750, classicspub.net Sun., Tue., Thur. thru Jun 28 Karaoke Jun 8 - Jun 9 Under Pressure Jun 15 Burn Town Jun 16 Radio Star Jun 22 Four on the Floor Jun 23 Party Train Jun 29 - 30 Sin City
Fusion 109 Water St., Worc. 508-756-2100,fusionworcester.com Sun. Reggae Fusion w/ DJ Nick Thru Dec 31 Now Booking Private Parties! Fri. Friday Frenzy w/ Blurry Nights & DJ SOUP - DJ B-LO Sat. Spinsuite Saturdays - Top 40 Thur. FoundationZ Thursdays Wed. Beirut Night
Club Instyle 41 Pleasant St., Worc., theclubinstyle.com
Galway Bay Irish Pub 186 Stafford St., Worc.,508-753-8909
Club KasBar 234 Southwest Cutoff, Worc.,508-798-8385 Jun 8 Dubble D & The Khaos Junkies Jun 29 Auntie Trainwreck
Gardner Ale House 74 Parker St., Gardner 978-669-0122, gardnerale.com
Club Universe 371 Park Ave., Worc.,508-755-5542 clubuniverseworcester.com Cornerstone’s Restaurant 616 Central St., Leominster, 978-537-1991 cornerstonesrestaurant.com Creegan’s Pub 65 Green St., Worc. 508-754-3550, creeganspub.com Dance Ranch & Saloon 70 James St., Worc., 508-757-6977 danceranchandsaloon.com Dar Bah 29 Canal St., Millbury, 508-865-8441 Days End Tavern 287 Main St., Oxford 508-987-1006, daysendtavern.com Thur. All Request Thirsty Thursday w/ CJ/DJ Fri., Sat. DJ HappyDaze Spinnin All the Hottest Dance Mixes Thur. Thirsty Thursday ALL Request DJ Jun 9 HeadFirst Jun 16 Bobby Carlson Jun 23 Teter Todders Jun 30 Chyldz Play Devens Grill 4 Ryans Way, Devens 978-862-0060, devensgrill.com Nef Ced 377 Park Ave., Worc., 508-751-4000 Dugan’s 49 Millbury St., Worc., 508-755-4155
Celtic Tavern 45 Belmont St., Northborough 508-366-6277, celtictav.com Mon. Game Show Night Thur. thru Jun 28 Karaoke
Dunnys Tavern 291 East Main St., East Brookfield
Center Bar & Grill 102 Green St., Worc. 508-438-0597, thecenterbar.com
Fiddlers’ Green Pub & Restaurant 19 Temple St., Worc. 508-792-3700, aohworcester.com Thur. Pitch League Thur. thru Jun 28 Trivia Night Sat. thru Jun 16 Karaoke with Greg Jun 15 Live Music - Ladd & MacLeod Jun 17 Open Mic w/ John Riley & Kringle Daly Jun 22 ***Special Night - Karaoke with Greg Firefly’s / Dante’s 350 East Main St., Marlborough 508-357-8883, fireflysbbq.com
Chopstick’s Restaurant & Lounge Commercial Rd, Leominster Jun 29 - 30 Doctor Robert Christopher’s Pub 7 Pleasant St. Leominster, 978-534-8250 Cicero’s Cafe 17 Suffolk St., Worc.,508-767-9728 www.worcesterscene.com/admin/location_ images/ciceros.jpg Cigar Masters 1 Exchange Place, Worc.,508-459-9035 Wed. thru Jun 27 Ricky Duran Thur - Sat. thru Jun 30 Live Music Mon., Tue. Jun 4 - 26 Bobby Gadoury Jun 9 Chris Reddy Acoustic Loops from Hell
24 THEPULSEMAG.COM | June 2012
Fat Tony’s Pub 1102 Main St., Worc.,508-798-8908
Flip Flops 680 Main St., Holden Flying Rhino Cafe 278 Shrewsbury St., Worc. 508-757-1450, flyingrhinocafe.com Funky Murphy’s Bar & Grill 305 Shrewsbury St., Worc.,508-753-2995
Gilrein’s 802 Main St., Worc. 508-791-2583, gilreins.net Greendale’s Pub 404 W Boylston St., Worc., 508-853-1350 myspace.com/greendalespub Sun. thru Jun 24 Sunday Blues Jam, hosted by Jim Perry Tue. Open Mic Night w /Bill McCarthy Wed. Sean Ryan & Company Thur. Karaoke with Mike Rossi Wed. Open Jam w/Sean Ryan Jun 23 Auntie Trainwreck Halligan’s Sports Bar and More 889 Southbridge St., Auburn, 508-832-6793 halliganssportsbarandmore.com Hotel Vernon 1 Millbury St., Worc. Indian Ranch 200 Gore Rd., Webster 508-943-3871, indianranch.com Ixtapa Cantina 308 Massachusetts Ave., Lunenburg 978-582-9701, ixtapacantina2.com Jak’s Pub 536 Main St., Worc. www.jakspubworcester.com Sun. Acoustic Open Mic/WARL Charity Event Tue. T.J. Peavey JC Fenwick’s 37 Mechanic St., Leominster, 978-840-4845 Jillian’s - Worcester 315 Grove St., Worc. 508-793-0900, jilliansworcester.com Wed. Girls Night Out Wed. $500 or $200 Every Other Week Bar Pong Tournament Wed. Ladies Night!!!! Jun 8 Spit Shine Jun 9 PPV Boxing: Pacquiao vs Bradley Jun 15 Auntie Trainwreck Jun 16 MassOctane Jun 22 The Classics Jun 23 UFC 147 Jun 29 Pop Rocks Jun 30 The Issues JJ’s Sports Bar and Grill 380 Southwest Cutoff, Northborough 508-842-8420, jbag.biz Jun 8 Valvatross Jun 9 Kiss Forever Jun 15 The Flock of Assholes Jun 16 Ned Lucas Band Jun 22 Heavy Horses Jun 23 Mullet Head Jun 29 The Shakers Jun 30 Time Warp LaScala Restaurant 183 Shrewsbury St., Worc., 508-753-9912 Thur. Jun 7 - 28 Live Acoustic Thursdays
Continued on pg.29
Ceres_Pulse_HalfPageVert_SummerSeries_Ver2.ai
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6:54:02 PM
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SUMMER CONCERT SERIES LIVE JAZZ THURSDAYS 6-9PM • OUTSIDE UNDER THE STARS
SUZANNE CABOT & PAMELA HINES CHET WILLIAMSON DALE LEPAGE W/ BOBBY GADOURY & THOMAS SPEARS NIKI LUPARELLI & THE GOLD DIGGERS KERI ANDERSON & THE LONESOME TRIO
DJ FRIDAY & SATURDAY NIGHT CHECK WEBSITE CALENDAR FOR FULL SCHEDULE
$5 BAR APPS (DAILY 4-7 & 10-CLOSE)
NEW LUNCH & DINNER MENUS
363 Plantation St. ~ Worcester, MA ~ ceresbistro.com
June 2012
| THEPULSEMAG.COM 25
Pulse
ShOtS
FEel the beat of the City!
Photos by Justin Perry
Give Kids A Fighting Chance - Charity Boxing at the Palladium - Worcester
Square 1 - Worcester
Black Sheep Tavern - Sterling
Breakaway Billiards - Clinton
Loft 266 - Worcester
Lucky Dog - Worcester
Salty Dog - Worcester
Boiler Room - Worcester
Classic’s - Leominster
Continued from pg. 24
Jun 14 Chris Reddy Acoustic Loops from Hell Jun 19 Taste of Shrewsbury St w/Chris Reddy
Oxford Tavern 314 Main St., Oxford, 508-987-5397
Leitrim’s Pub 265 Park Ave., Worc. 508-798-2447, www.leitrimspub.com
Paisanos Pizza & Spirits 450 Lancaster St., Leominster, 978-534-7117
Lidio’s Restaurant & Lounge 1045 Central St., Leominster 978-534-6600, lidios.com Loft 266 Bar & Lounge 266 Park Ave., Worc. 508-796-5177, loft266.com Tue. Game Show Night London Billiards / Club Oasis 70 James St., Worc. 508-799-7655, londonbilliards.com Thur. FoundationZ Thursdays - Dubstep/Hip Hop/Drum’N’Bass Lucky Dog Music Hall 89 Green St., Worc. 508-363-1888, luckydogmusic.com Wed. WOO-TOWN Wednesday Free show Live Bands Sun. The Sunday Night Hang w/ Ronnie Sugar Bear. Jun 3 Live Band Karaoke w/ Fingercuff Jun 5 The Foul Play Cabaret (Burlesque show from AR!) w/ guests The Genre Whores Jun 6 Mister Smartass Theater’s LIVE take on “tba” and more offensive stuff Jun 7 The awesome 80s party band The Flock Of A-Holes! with Danny Dark & The Afternoon Delight Jun 8 PHISH After Party with Dopapod!!! (11:00pm-2:00am) Pre-show party from 4:006:00pm w/ TBA. Jun 14 the awesome 80s party band The Flock Of A-Holes! with “H,” Faux Ox and hosted by comedian Tom Dwyer. Jun 16 Kung Fu Grip w/ guests Jun 17 Live Band Karaoke with Fingercuff! Pick from of over 170 songs! You Are The Star!!! Every Other Sunday Night! Jun 20 WOO Town Wednesdays. Free show w/ Under The Influence, Blackwell, The Black Death and Of The Monarchs Jun 21 The awesome 80s party band The Flock Of A-Holes! with Miranda snd Criminals & Beauty Queens Jun 22 The official 30 year anniv.of THE ROLLING STONES surprise show at Sir Morgan’s Cove w/ The Blushing Brides! The most dangerous STONES tribute band. Jun 23 Hard # 9, Next Town Ov-Ah (incredible funky 7 piece band) Jun 28 Awesome 80s party band The Flock Of A-Holes! w/ Bobby Morin & Luke Kelly +1 more tba Jun 29 Clutch Grabwell Is Back In Worcester! Jun 30 The KISS tribute “Kiss Forever” with guests Opening Night and more Mahoney’s Pub 413 Park Ave., Worc., 508-277-1073 www.facebook.com/mahoneyspub.ma Marty’s Pub 225 Cantebury St., Worc. 508-754-0033, martyspub.com MB Lounge 40 Grafton St., Worc. 508-799-4521,mblounge.com McNally’s Grille & Pub 88 Sargent Rd, Westminster, 978-874-1444 Mickey Sheas 324 Electric Ave., Lunenburg, 978-342-5825 Mill Street Brews (@ The ADC) 18 Mill St., Southbridge 508-764-6900, millstreetbrews.com Moynihan’s Pub 897 Main St., Worc. Nick’s Bar and Restaurant 124 Millbury St., Worc.,508-753-4030 www.myspace.com/NicksWorcester Olde Post Office Pub 1 Ray St., North Grafton, 508-839-6106 On The Rocks Sports Bar & Grill 96 Lakefront Ave., Lunenburg, 978-342-6692
Palladium, The 261 Main St., Worc. 508-797-9696, thepalladium.net Jun 15 Hostile Takeover Tour 2012 Tech N9ne Partner’s Pub 970 South St., Fitchburg 978-345-5051, partnerspub.com Sat. thru Jun 30 Live Entertainment Sun., Mon., Wed., Fri. thru Jun 29 Karaoke Perfect Game Sports Grill and Lounge 64 Water St., Worc. 508-792-4263, perfectgameworcester.com Wed. Game Show Night Sun. Open Mic With Bill McCarthy Fri. thru Jun 29 DJ One3 Sat. thru Jun 30 DJ Reckless Wed. Jun 6 - 27 Game Show Live Trivia Jun 7 Karaoke with SirchOne Jun 8 Ken Macy Jun 15 Tom Revane Jun 16 2 Year Anniv. Bash w Jediah & Miller Light Jun 22 Comedy with James Dorsey
PULSEPick Sonic Pulse (f/ members of Razormaze, Skull Hammer, Ravage, and Vindicator) bring their Thrash/Epic Power Metal sound to Ralph’s on June 21 in support of their new album Lager Than Life (nope, that’s not a typo!). Jun 29 Andy Cummings Jun 30 Ton of Blues Point Breeze On the Lake 114 Point Breeze Rd., Webster, 508-943-0404 pointbreezeonwebsterlake.com Jun 11 Ken Sawyer’s Big Band Jazz Ralph’s Chadwick Square Diner 148 Grove St., Worc. 508-753-9543, ralphsrockdiner.com Tue. “Totally Tuesdazed!!!!!” Tunes Wed. Big Game Karaoke at 10pm! Music, Games, Contests, Prizes, and More! Mon. Dirty Gerund Poetry & Variety Show Sun. Sunday Night Cinemageddon!!! Outdoor Drive-In movies every Sunday. Jun 7, 21, 28 Metal Thursday! Jun 8 The FUs! other bands TBA. Jun 9 Grand Evolution, The Ticklebomb Orchestra, Eric Barao, Nine Volts Short! Jun 14 The Toasters!!!! w/The Pomps, and Elsewhere! Jun 15 The Bynars, Sun Sister, River Tigris, and East Coast Runaways! Jun 16 Roadkill Orchestra “B Side” CD Release Party!! w/ What, Kevin Williams and the Invisible Orphans, and Flip McClane! Jun 22 Scourge, Western Massacre, Scaphism, Jun 23 Demons Alley, Bottlefight, Numbskulls, The Grind, and Skintights! Red Onion - Otter River Hotel 29 Main St., Baldwinville 978-939-7373,myspace.com/theredonion Rivalry’s Sports Bar 274 Shrewsbury St., Worc. 774-243-1100, rivalrysworcester.com Fri., Sat. thru Jun 30 Live Music Sakura Tokyo 640 Park Ave., Worc. 508-792-1078, sakura-tokyo.com Jun 29 - 30 Windfall classic rock
Salty Dog Saloon 1 Kelley Square, Worc. 508-752-6600, saltydogsaloon.net Sean Patrick’s Family Restaurant 494 Electric Ave., Lunenburg 888-824-3924, 978-345-2000 South Side Grille & Margarita Factory 242 W. Broadway, Gardner, 978-632-1057 www.southsidemargaritafactory.com Speakers Night Club 19 Weed St., Marlborough 508-480-8222, speakersnightclub.net Thur. Open Request DJ & Dancing Fri. Ladies’ Night - Top 40 Dance Party Jun 9 The Allens!! Jun 16 Gilmours Breakfast Jun 23 Tigerlily Spruce Street Tavern 68 Spruce St., Clinton 978-368-1255, SpruceStreetTavern.com Squire Whites Pub & Restaurant 347 Greenwood St., Worc. 508-752-7544, squirewhites.com
Union Music 142 Southbridge St., Worc. 508-753-3702, unionmusic.com Jun 13 Craig Thatcher Martin Guitar Workshop Upper Deck Sports Bar & Grille 377 Stetson Rd., Barre, 978-355-2224 upperdecksportsbarandgrille.com Vegas Lounge 5 Summer St., Lunenburg, 978-400-7524 Verona Grille 81 Clinton St., Shrewsbury, 508-853-9091 Victory Bar & Cigar 56 Shrewsbury St., Worc. 508-756-4747, victorycigarbar.com Vincent’s Bar 49 Suffolk St., Worc. 508-752-9439, myspace.com/vincentsbar Sun. Big Jon Short Thur. Cara Brindisi Jun 6 The Twangbusters: Boogie, Blues & Hillbilly Bop @ Vincent’s Whiskey Alley 281 Lunenburg St., Fitchburg, 978-345-4040
Stagecoach Inn and Tavern 128 Main St., Groton 978-448-5614,grotonstagecoachinn.com
Whistle Stop Bar & Grill 85 Main St., Oxford 508-987-3087, StopByTheWhistle.com
Sunset Tiki Bar 79 Powers Rd, Westford 978-692-5700, skinashoba.com/summer Jun 15 Chris Reddy Acoustic Loops from Hell Wed. Jun 20 - Aug 29 Chris Reddy Acoustic Loops from Hell
William’s Restaurant & Tavern 184 Pearson Blvd, Gardner, 978-632-7794
Tammany Hall 43 Pleasant St., Worc. 508-753-7001, tammanyhallrocks.com
Wonder Bar Restaurant 121 Shrewsbury St., Worc., 508-752-9909 Ye Olde Tavern 7 East Main St., West Brookfield 508-867-9709,westbrookfieldtavern.com
The Cannery 12 Crane St., Southbridge, 508-764-1100 12crane.com/canneryhall/index.php
CoffeeHouses
The Columbia Tavern 11 Merriam Ave., Leominster, 978-227-5874 Jun 8 Bruce Marshall Jun 16 Kevin Shields Jun 22 Brian & Captain
Acton Jazz Cafe 452 Great Rd., Acton 978-263-6161, actonjazzcafe.com
The Grey Hound Pub 11 Kelley Square, Worc.,508-754-6100 thegreyhoundworcester.com The Lazy Dog 31 Main St., Marlborough 508-229-2264, doggonelazy.com
Bean Counter Coffee Bar and Bakery 113 Highland St., Worc., 508-754-3125 Books & Beans 15 Hamilton St., Southbridge 508-764-6774, booksandbeans.org Buzz Bean Espresso Lounge 32 Main St., Webster, 508-943-4039
The Mill 185 West Boylston St., West Boylston
Cafe Palermo 139 John Fitch Hwy., Fitchburg,978-345-4501
The Nines Neighborhood Bar 136 Millbury St., Worc., 508-340-0318
Caffe Dolce 154 Shrewsbury St., Worc., 508-754-3761
The Pumphouse 340 Main St., Southbridge, 508-765-5473 facebook.com/#!/pages/The-Pump-House/ 374917818127?sk=info
Espress Yourself Coffee 2 Richmond Ave., Worc., 508-755-3300
The Raven 258 Pleasant St., Worc., 508-304-8133 Jun 7 Disc Jam Presents:Phish Aftershow party w/Ghosts Of Jupiter (formerly The Nate Wilson Group),The Ghost Of Vigoda Jun 8 Sicarii,Main Aim,APeriod,Josh Bliss,Haze,Paranom,J Glov,Graffiti Fresh,Sons Of Liberty,Abnormal,Headhunt er,Paulii (Rot10),Brooknaum.John Gotem, hosted by Indie Corna Jun 16 Dead Languages,Demoralizer,Gut Bucket,Excrecor,Seax,Synthetic Mindset,A Beast Over Boston,My Missing Half,Soul Annihilation Jun 30 18 Wheels Of Justice,Post-Existence,I mpulse,Imposter,Tides Will Turn Trumbull Bar & Grill 117 Main St., Spencer, 508-885-6901 Tweed’s 231 Grove St., Worc. 508-755-8047, tweedspub.com
Green Rooster Coffeehouse 6 Institute Rd., Worc., 508-798-3010 www.ucc-worcester.org/greenrooster Olive Branch Coffeehouse 30 Main St., Northborough 508-393-1333, thebranch.com Spiritual Haze 482 Park Ave., Worc. 508-799-0629, spiritualhaze.com Steeple Coffeehouse 15 Common St., Southborough 508-845-4847, steeplecoffeehouse.org Sturbridge Coffee Roasters / SCR Cafe 210 Hamilton St., Southbridge 508-765-5520, sturbridgecoffeeroasters.com Udderly Delicious 273 Main St., Oxford 508-987-9636, udderlydelicious.net Wholly Cannoli 488 Grafton St., Worc. 508-753-0224, whollycannoli.com
June 2012
| THEPULSEMAG.COM 29
LIFESTYLE
Hard to Be a (Wanna-be) Gent? Time to Consult G3nt ~ A Handbook for the Third Millennium Gentleman By Jason W. Prokowiew
The idea for G3nt sprang from a nonfiction book Dodd shelved years ago that focused on bachelors and how they could best approach dating. In November 2011, Schloegel, a friend since the two attended New School University in New York City, suggested they turn that book into an advice column. “Our goal is to give some dead-on judgment calls and be funny doing it,” Dodd says. In a recent query, a lost soul named Ghost Dog asked what he should do with his curiosity about his girlfriend’s sexual past. “Nip it in the bud. Strangle it in the crib. No good will come of it,” Dodd and Schloegel advised. “The modern compulsion to talk about sex at all turns is in fact your worst enemy in this instance.” While the Guide may claim to answer the call of the modern fool trying to pass as sir, Dodd says there’s room for the ladies, too. “My advice to the ladies who want to send questions is just to disguise themselves as men,” Dodd says. “But honestly, I don’t think the women need a lot of help.” To follow G3nt and pose your questions, visit www.g3nt.com. In an age when you can dump your girlfriend by text and moments later arrange via Smart Phone a weekend trip to Sin City to avoid the backlash, it can be tough to be a gentleman. Worcester native, writer (you’ll remember Pulse’s features on Colin’s first book, Another Broken Wizard) and all-around gentleman Colin Dodd is helping those struggling men ~ and by extension the ladies on the receiving end of their Neanderthal ways ~ to master the arts of decorum in the modern world. In January, he and his partner in gentlemanliness Frank Schloegel launched the blog G3nt ~ A Handbook for the Third Millennium Gentleman. “Politeness is a lot different than it was 10 years ago,” Dodd points out. “There’s a lot more disconnect now. Men need to understand that there are ways to get the point across without hurting other people’s feelings.” Dodd and Schloegel answer a different reader’s concern every weekday and cover the range of struggles a modern-day fellow looking to refine himself faces ~ from what the heck LMAO means and when to use it to how to tell your friends that they’re bad parents. “There’s a lot of confusion and trepidation out there,” Dodd explains. “This is a different world than we were raised in.”
30 THEPULSEMAG.COM | June 2012
THIS JUST IN! Colin’s second book, What Smiled at Him, became available on May 22 as a paperback and ebook. It’s a mystery in which the main characters seem to possess all the clues and information they need to solve a grisly double-murder, but, for their respective reasons, don’t. Childhood friends Lynn ~ a struggling musician ~ and Marv ~ who sells software ~ now in their late 20s, are beginning to question the choices they’ve made. One night, far from home, a mix of alcohol, irresponsibility and coincidence reunites them with the longtime object of their desires, Caroline. Now married into a wealthy Chicago family, Caroline is desperately unhappy and begins an affair with Marv. Not long after, she’s arrested and charged with murdering her husband and infant son. Lynn and Marv reluctantly investigate and debate what happened, all while remaining dangerously close to her. As her trial nears, the mystery dogs them through their searches for love and success and through their self-destructive lapses ~ and may ultimately end with one of their deaths.
Above photo: Colin Dodd
June 2012
| THEPULSEMAG.COM 31
DINING & ENTERTAINING Review: By Bernie Whitmore
Rosalina’s Kitchen
83 Hamilton Street in Worcester 508-926-8887 BYOB http://rosalinaskitchen.com/ Grafton Hill was the neighborhood I moved to when I first came to Worcester. Some mornings when I’d run past 83 Hamilton Street, a wiry old lady would be out front cleaning the sidewalk. She’d scold me, “Get a broom and sweep!” That was Moore’s Pharmacy, a business you never saw anyone enter or leave. When it finally closed, the storefront seemed doomed to the twisted mojo of sweeping-lady. Even initial attempts at restaurants were ill-fated. But then came a delightful change with Rosalina’s Kitchen. Rosalina’s has been open for almost a year, but in that short time, the proprietors ~ Rose-Ellen & Angela Padavano ~ have established a following whose loyalty borders on fierce. The small dining area alternates between intimate and communal, usually the latter. The evening I joined a couple of friends for dinner we were all but inducted into the Red-Hat Society by a table of raucous ladies celebrating a birthday with kazoos and boxed Cabernet. If you don’t meet existing friends at Rosalina’s, you’ll usually make a few new ones. This aforementioned loyalty hasn’t been built purely upon good looks and charm. Rosaline’s secret formula goes more like this: home-cooked Italian cuisine, quality ingredients, fair prices and a staff dedicated to caring service. These make plans for dinner at Rosalina’s something to look forward to. Now that I’ve shared my fondness for Rosalina’s, let’s get to what really matters: the cuisine. Everyone seems to have their own version of Fried Calamari, and it’s hard to recall a time when this appetizer wasn’t a universal menu item. But Rosalina’s takes the simple & honest approach to this classic: medium-sized pieces of freshly cut rings and tentacles fried ‘til just crisp and juicy, tossed with a sprinkling of salt and tiny flecks of fresh green herbs. A cup of marinara was provided for dipping, but wasn’t really necessary. How can I rave so much over something so basic? That’s what happens when you have a chef so confident in her talent and ingredients that she doesn’t need any flash.
34 THEPULSEMAG.COM | June 2012
For vegetarians who don’t wish to punish themselves with perpetual deprivation and boring fare, Rosalina’s has offerings that make meatless seem decadent. Take, for example, the Ricotta Puffs. A menu item for some time now, I’d longed to give them a try. Why was I waiting? Roughly the size and shape of plums, the order of three puffs was served on a platform fashioned of a thin filet of eggplant and served over gemelli pasta tossed in a broth of basil, diced tomatoes and olive oil. Lynn, our usual waitress, had advised that the puffs packed a spicy kick, but I daresay this warning was unnecessary. I found their crunchy golden-brown exteriors held a fluffy mixture of ricotta blended with savory herbs and, perhaps, some eggy richness. Across the table, my friends were equally engaged with their meals; one chose an order of Veal Parmigiana served with gemelli pasta and, per request, marinara on the side. Admittedly, it was basic Italian fare, but I wasn’t complaining; he’d brought the large bottle of Malbec. My other friend decided to try Rosalina’s Design-A-Dish, a special offered on Wednesdays. A special menu lists various proteins (choose two), up to three vegetable/add-ins, pasta options and an impressive range of sauces and pastas. He devised an impressive meal: scallops and shrimp over cheese ravioli tossed in Fra Diavolo sauce. On the side he constructed a mini antipasto of artichoke hearts, roasted peppers and prosciutto. Illustrating how different Design-A-Dish can be, one of the ladies next to us ordered Chicken Breast with Maple Cream Sauce. I think it would be wise to go to their website, consult the special menu and pre-design something that you’ve always wanted. The chef seems game for anything. My first meal at Rosalina’s Kitchen, Baby Clams over Linguini, was enough to assure me that this was a kitchen that had mastered the fundamentals and cuts no corners with quality ingredients. If I’d never strayed from it, I’d remain a loyal customer. However, this is a menu of classic Italian cuisine with some rustic twists and turns making it well worth return trips for exploration.
Hot & Now By Paul Giorgio
TOSS. The 12th annual Taste of Shrewsbury Street takes place on Tuesday, June 19th from 5-9pm on Worcester’s Restaurant Row, aka Shrewsbury Street. For $25 you get to sample the food of almost 40 restaurants along this 1.5 mile stretch. There will be live music and wine tastings as well. All proceeds go to benefit the Shrewsbury Street Merchants Association. Sponsors include: Shock Top Beer, People’s United Bank, Fidelity Bank, The Digital Credit Union, Bay State Savings Bank, Pulse Magazine, and Taste Worcester.com, as well as radio Stations WXLO, The Pike, Oldies 98.9 & WCRN 830-AM. Buttons can be purchased online at www.Tasteshrewsburystreet.com. Gumbo opens. Gumbo, Worcester Canal District’s newest eatery, opened its doors the last week of May. Gumbo will feature New Orleans style cuisine under the guidance of Chef Patrick Carroll . Seven is finally lucky. 7 Nana will finally open its doors the first week of June after months of construction delays. The over-the-top Japanese Steak House has undergone a million dollar plus renovation to turn a former real estate office into one of Worcester’s most elegant eateries. A large waterfall graces an entire wall and several rooms hold Tabenaki tables. Haiku gets new owner. Haiku Restaurant on Worcester’s Park Ave, one of the best Japanese sushi restaurants in the city, was recently sold to Jean Romano. Haiku has been owned since it opened by the Sakhat family, which also owns the El Basha restaurants. New Cuisine. In a testament to Worcester’s cultural and epicurean diversity, an Afghan restaurant will soon open on Worcester’s Shrewsbury Street. The new restaurant will be owned by Fowzia Sherzai and her husband, who have been in the Worcester area for almost 30 years. The restaurant will be housed in the space that was home to Big Joe’s Deli. The name of the new place is Pomir Grill, named after an Afghan mountain range. The restaurant will serve lamb, chicken, beef, and several vegetarian dishes. Chill out. The 23rd Big Dipper All-You-Can-Eat Ice Cream Festival is coming up at Elm Park on Saturday, June 30th from 10:30 am to 5:30 pm. The Big Dipper was started in 1989 by the Children’s Friend Society and is one of Worcester’s best and most fattening events. How can anyone say no to all-you-can-eat ice cream?! New Beer. Joshua Van Dyke, proprietor of Nu Café at 335 Chandler St. in Worcester (the old Tatnuck Bookseller), will be hosting a launch party on June 7th. Nu Café will be introducing their new beer and wine selections, accompanying an “after work hours” menu of savory appetizers.
More restaurants opening, sign of a strong economy:
Kozara Restaurant will be opening by the late fall on Worcester’s Park Ave. This will be the second restaurant for Wilson Wong, who owns Baba Sushi ~ also on Park Ave. Kozara will be an Asian Tapas bar. Vintage Grille is slated to open the first week of June in the space that formerly housed Junior’s. The pub style menu will feature burgers, pizza and several entrees. The space has been completely redone with a larger bar area and more comfortable seating. Pho 2000 sold. A new Italian restaurant will Pho 2000’s place at 1394 Main Street in Worcester. We don’t know how long Pho 2000 was open, but we hope this new eatery lasts longer. Hot Rocks. The Lava Grill will be opening at 374 Belmont Street in Worcester. The concept is simple ~ pick your protein, pick your vegetables, and cook it on hot stones. The restaurant will be going into the space that the former D’Angelo’s Sandwich shop occupied. We reported earlier that an Italian restaurant was going into the space. June 2012
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PULSE
Cockt ails
Exclusiv Fine Vodka and Wine By Rick Garner
Exclusiv Vodka’s upper echelon taste has wo� incredibly clean finish. Exclusiv Vodka’s Rose Moscato sparkling red wine is perfect for sipping…think of a leisurely meal out on the deck, warm summer breeze cooling things off just enough. Exclusiv Vodka’s line of vodkas (including raspberry and orange) and Rose Moscato wine are all priced at or below $13.00, so you � Exclusiv Bomb Pop 1/2 oz Exclusiv Orange 1/2 oz Exclusiv Raspberry 1/2 Orange Curacoa 1/2 Sour mix Splash 7Up Shaken, poured as a shot. Sink grenadine Exclusiv Passion 2 oz. Exclusiv Vodka 1 oz. Alize Passion Red Liquor 1 oz. Mango Puree 1 oz. Fresh Sour mix 3 Lemons 1 Mango Slice Combine first four ingredients in a shaker. Strain into martini glass. Squeeze 3 lemons. Garnish with mango slice. Exclusiv Latin Summer 1 oz. Ginger infused Exclusiv Vodka 1/2 oz. Cointreau 2 oz. cranberry juice Shake all liquid ingredients with ice and strain into a martini glass.
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Exclusiv Sangria 1 750 ml. bottle dry white wine 12 oz. Exclusiv Citrus Vodka 4 oz. Grand Marnier 4 oz. Orange Juice 4 oz. White Grape Juice 4 oz. Pomegranate Juice 4 oz. Fresh Lemon Juice 2 oz. Simple Syrup The Exclusiv Currency 2 ounces Exclusiv Berry 1 ounce Chambord Fill a champagne flute with Exclusiv Moscato The Exclusiv Cashmere 2 ounces Exclusiv Citrus splash of pineapple juice Fill a champagne flute with Exclusiv Moscato
EdibleGiftsPlus.com By Steph Moore
So Father’s Day is almost upon us, and sure, it’s pretty easy to buy for our dads, they’re contractually obligated to love anything we give them, but what about our husbands, the younger, hipper generation of dads? A tie or bottle of cologne just isn’t going to cut it (Plus…shhh…shouldn’t we be able to enjoy the gift, too? I mean, when guys give us lingerie, do you really think it’s JUST for us? C’mon now!) ~ and since the gift is actually coming from his son or daughter, shouldn’t it be something fun and colorful that everyone can enjoy together? EdibleGiftsPlus.com does a great job of combining delicious treats with Dadfriendly themes that everyone can enjoy! Check out some of the yummy options (and yes, I can honestly say, “Yummy” because I’ve already…let’s call it “delicately sampled”… my fair share of both the chocolate and cookie items) ~ and then choose the one that’ll make the hot dad in your life smile on Father’s Day and after!! To check out what each and every one of the confections listed below looks like (they’re beautiful, trust me, and your mouth is going to water!), head to www.EdibleGiftsPlus.com, where you can also place your order.
~ Father’s Day Strawberries ($54.99) ~ Father’s Day Oreos ($1.50 each) ~ Father’s Day Giant Fortune Cookie ($29.50) ~ Father’s Day Chocolate Pizza ($34.95) ~ Our Traditional (Chocolate) Pizza ($29.95) ~ G8”x10” Rectangle Giant Photo/Logo Brownie ($34.95) ~ Chocolate Beer Mug ($14.95) ~ Father’s Day Chocolate Dipped Crispies ($1.75 each) ~ Munchies and Beer ($49.95)
These combo baskets are filled with a ton of great treats, both sweet and salty ~ and if your dad or father-in-law (or both!) are coming over for Father’s Day, it might not be a bad idea to get them each one, too, just so they’re not jealous! ~ “Jim & Jack Together At Last” Grillin’ Gift Basket ($84.99) ~ Football Fanatic Sports Gift Basket ($69.99) ~ Gone Fishin Cookies ($32.95) ~ Fore! The Links Father’s Day Lollipop Bouquet ($42.95) ~ Tool Time Dad Lollipop Bouquet ($36.95) ~ Golf Ball Oreos- Box of 9 ($19.95) ~ Golfing Giant Fortune Cookie ($29.95) ~ Dad’s Poker Night Lollipop Bouquet ($56.95) ~ Bud Time Barbecue Gift Set ($69.99) Happy Father’s Day to all the dads out there!
www.EdibleGiftsPlus.com
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Framingham’s Bellator Featherweight
Saul “The Spider” Almeida By Alvin Benjamin Carter III
SPORTS & FITNESS Bellator Fighting Championships (Bellator) is the 3rd largest mixed martial arts (MMA) promotion in the USA and one of the largest tournament-based MMA organization in the world.. Bjorn Rebney, Bellator Chairman and CEO, founded the fight promotion in 2007 with the idea of using a tournament-style that “...lets the fighters decide their own fate.” The first season of Bellator ~ “Where title shots are earned, not given” ~ kicked off in 2009, and since then they’ve racked up a total of seven successful seasons plus a much-coveted partnership with MTV 2. Enter current Bellator featherweight Saul “The Spider” Almeida from Framingham ~ a mixed martial artist with a 12-2 professional record. At 23, he is a member of Team Nogueira and trains out of Dragon’s Lair MMA in Framingham. I spoke with Saul about his career and what it means for him to be from Central Massachusetts: Pulse: At what age did you know you want to do get involved in MMA fighting? Saul: When I was about sixteen or seventeen I felt like I wanted to fight. I had been competing since I was eight in karate tournaments. When I turned nineteen I had my first pro fight and I felt like I had a lot of experience from doing karate and jiu-jitsu. Pulse: What is your main base in martial arts? Saul: Jiu-jitsu and wrestling. Well, really karate, but I use a lot of jiu-jitsu and wrestling to help me win fights. Right now, I am starting to add a little more karate and boxing into my game.
Saul: I really think it is important to have a relationship with your manager, and Mike [DePena] does pretty much everything a fighter needs. He wants me to train, to fight, and to win, and he takes care of everything else. Pulse: What does having your home base in Central MA mean to you? Saul: It’s where I started. I take opportunities to train other places, but this is where I am from. I was born in Brazil, but I have been in Framingham since I was eight. It’s my home. For more on Bellator, visit www.bellator.com, and make sure to check the MTV2 schedule to watch the fights broadcast live. Also get ready for Bellator to be broadcast live on Spike TV starting in 2013. To connect with Saul, head to his FB page, www.facebook.com/pages/SaulAlmeida/103136396406309. For more photos, stats, and fight history for Saul, head to www.sherdog.com/fighter/Saul-Almeida-44913. Keep an eye on www.mohegansun.com for upcoming Bellator fights and then check them out live and in person! Special thanks to Anthony Mazzuca and Mike DePena
PHOTO: courtesy of shockblastmedia.com
Pulse: What’s your training process been like? Saul: I started training when I was eight at Dragon’s Lair where I still am now with my trainer Mario Ramos. Then I started training with Patricio Pitbull [Freire] and his brother Patricky, and they introduced me to Team Nogueira. I went out to train with Team Nougiera San Diego, and I went Los Angeles to train at Blackhouse where I trained with the Nougeira brothers, Lyoto Machida, and Anderson Silva. That was a pretty great experience, and they gave me a lot of support. Pulse: At the moment, you are 1-1 in Bellator. Are you looking to fight for the promotion again soon? Saul: Yes, I am looking to possibly fight in June. I believe Bellator is having a Summer Series. I am looking to fight as much as possible, so I plan to have a fight in either Bellator or CES, a promotion that I fight for locally. Pulse: How did it feel the first time you stepped into the Bellator circle and realized that your fight could potentially be televised to a very large audience? Saul: It was pretty cool. It was my first time fighting in a bigger show, but I didn’t let anything get to me. It was still a fight, but on a bigger stage. I wanted to go in there and have fun and fight. Pulse: What is like having a powerhouse of a management team like First Round Management in your corner? Does it make it easier for you to focus on training?
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PHOTO: Saul (L, in black shorts) courtesy of bellator.com
Arctic Ease By Tim Branch
Freezing temps that send shivers down your spine. Messy dripping water and “sweating” plastic bags. Bulky ice packs aren’t a realistic option for today’s person on-the-go. When the doctor tells you to keep your injury or muscle pain on ice, how often do you ignore the advice ~ possibly causing lingering pain and damage ~ because it’s a pain in the butt? Enter the hassle-free, bulk-free and mess-free Arctic Ease, an ecofriendly, re-usable cryotherapy wrap infused with a non-toxic, biodegradable cooling agent that stays cold for hours to treat a variety of musculoskeletal injuries. Just ask New England Patriots Tight End Rob Gronkowski, San Francisco 49’s Vernon Davis, Pro Triathlete Meredith Kessler, and Olympian Tina Charles ~ they’re all fans of the product. You can wear it during a workout, on the go, or on the job. Afterwards, just roll it up, put it in the re-sealable pouch with a little water and it will be ready to use again in just a few hours. The Arctic Ease wrap can be cut to any size (from a big athletic knee to a toddler-sized wrist) and sticks to itself, eliminating the need for tape or clips. The 4 x 5” wrap retails for $14.99 and comes in white, black, blue and pink. Arctic Ease is also available in a 4 x 6” patch (not re-usable). The 3-pack retails for $9.99. www.ArcticEase.com.
We’re Back!!! Allgos’ new dessert menu is now available all night. Live music every Thursday, Friday, & Saturday Open Wednesday- Sunday 6pm-2am With outdoor seating from 6-11pm 58 Shrewsbury St. Worcester, MA 01604 774.823.3111
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ART & CULTURE
They Want [to Draw] Your Braaaaains! By Katey Khaos
Haven’t you ever wondered what you’d look like as a zombie? Sean Gardner and Nick Mitchell will gladly show you. Sean and Nick have taken the art of caricatures and transformed it into a whole new realm of creepy cool. “Zombie Caricatures began as nothing more than something fun and challenging to do during the Halloween season at work while I was working as a caricature artist at Busch Gardens in Tampa, Florida,” Sean explains. Shortly after seeing the interest in these zombie caricatures, fellow artist and close friend Nick joined in, and together they starting creating caricatures like no other. “[We] teamed up and worked a local horror convention and found that other people saw something cool and original in what we were doing.” From there, their Zombie Caricatures took off, and since then, their work has been shown at various events including the Mass Tattoo Convention and Rock ‘n’ Shock in Worcester. Between the two of them, they share over twenty years of caricature experience ~ and it certainly shows in their
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ghoulish work. “Every Zombie Caricature we create is 100% unique, original and tailored to that particular person. Some people’s faces requires more attention or offer more possibilities as a zombie, so sometimes a Zombie Caricature can take only 15 minutes, while others can take up to 30 just depends on how much [our] sick imaginations take [us].” How does one go about Zombie-fying an everyday human? “Each Zombie Caricature starts with being a caricature FIRST! Once we’re happy with how the general caricature is laid out we then see which features or areas of the face would be better for flesh to be ripped away, blasted by a shotgun or perhaps an ax would fit nicely. The trick is to make sure that the likeness of the individual is still retained. Sure, we would love the tear away half the face, expose brains and have eye popping out everywhere...but if it doesn’t look like the person then the drawing fails as a caricature,” they joke. As Sean puts it, “It’s like getting away with artistic murder.” “I can totally ruin someone’s day and make them cry with just one line. Or make them laugh. No matter if it’s a good or bad reaction, I want them all,” Nick laughs. The guys are currently working on Zombie Caricatures the Book, which they’re hoping will be released by Halloween. The book is a compilation of over one hundred pages of horrifyingly awesome zombie caricatures along with various sketches, tutorials and more! If you’d like your own zombie caricature, you can order one via their website at www.zombiecaricatures.com.
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CANAL DISTRICT FRIDAY JUNE 22ND CELEBRATE the 30TH ANNIV’ OF
THE
STONES GIG AT THE COVE!
OPEN AT 8:30pm TIX $15 in ADV or at DOOR GET ADVANCE TICKETS HERE: www.rockonconcerts.com/event/124121/
W/
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GUESTS: SOLISTIC
CANAL DISTRICT
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CANAL DISTRICT
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Style & Beauty
Elephant Squad Clothing Positivity never looked so good By Rachel Shuster
Elephant Squad clothing was started by LeGrand Haughton, a humanities major at Anna Maria College, in November of 2011 and represents positivity and power in remembrance of his father. “I started the clothing line for my dad. After he died, I wanted something to remember him by. I wanted it to be something positive for people in urban communities,” Haughton said. Previously featured in Pulse for his musical talents, LeGrand has shifted focus to his passion for fashion and helping others. “I am still doing music. Fashion has been something I’ve been doing on the side to support up and coming artists. Many of the artists that design for me are still in college so this gives them a little edge on their resume,” Haughton said. As for what influences LeGrand, it’s all about positivity and empowerment. “I want this clothing line to be a positive influence. A lot of clothes these days, you see negative images and statements. We didn’t want our products to be like that,” he said. Elephant Squad currently offers T-shirts but plans to offers shorts, hoodies, V-necks, hats and more soon. “It’s going to be a full blown line hopefully by the end of this summer,” Haughton said enthusiastically. Although in its early stages, Elephant Squad has already seen success. “The first batch of shirts came out in November and sold out by end of December. We have three designs out right now, but I’m working on more for the summer,” Haughton added. Currently, prices range from $15-$20. Future items like hoodies will range from $40-$50. While the T-shirts offered are universal, LeGrand plans to expand the line’s female section in the next few months. To purchase Elephant Squad clothing, you can contact LeGrand directly, but keep an eye out for online purchasing on Elephant’s Squad website which is currently under construction. “I like the idea of brotherhood, and want something that people can associate with self-power. It’s going to be a whole movement. This is just the beginning,” Haughton said. Check out Elephant Squad Clothing on Facebook or email LeGrand at elephantsquadclothing@gmail.com. PHOTO: LeGrand Haughton
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Bits of Bohemia By Courtney E. Danielson
In 2004, Sienna Miller introduced boho-chic style to the masses, and it’s been a warm-weather staple ever since. Although the entire point of the boho is to look effortless, it does require a certain amount of attention to detail to successfully pull off. Done correctly, the style is laid-back and feminine. Done incorrectly, however, and you risk looking ~ well, like a mess.
So how do you keep the balance to achieve a chic and casual summer ensemble? Read on! Boho Tip 1: Invest in a maxi dress or skirt If you purchase one piece of clothing on your quest for boho enlightenment, please let it be a maxi dress or skirt. These are the quintessential pieces of any successful boho wardrobe, and they come in a variety of prints, styles, and colors. There are a couple of things to look out for when purchasing your maxi dress or skirt. The first is the fit of the piece. If the garment is too long, it will not only lead you down the path of looking like you’re wearing your taller sister’s hand-medowns (the one thing you’ve desperately got to avoid while going boho), you also
run the risk of ruining the bottom of the dress as you drag it through the mud or, worse (and more embarrassingly), of tripping on it. If you’re short, finding the perfect length piece may be a bit of a challenge, so don’t be afraid to take it to the tailor. The second thing you need to watch out for is frayed threads. Some designers add these to emphasize the boho-ness of the piece and while boho pieces are meant to look well-worn and comfy, they aren’t meant to look worn out and decrepit, and that’s exactly what too much fray conveys. Boho Tip 2: Flowy tops Any sheer-ish and delicate top will give you a pulled together boho look. These tops will go well with a pair of jeans (skinny or otherwise), leggings (if the shirt is long enough), shorts, and ~ of course ~ your maxi skirt! The key is, again, to pay attention to the fit. In general, boho pieces should be loose (think of shirts that hang a bit off the shoulder), not form-fitting. However, it’s important to make sure you don’t under-estimate the bagginess and end up in a shirt eight sizes too big. When you get into the too-baggy look, you risk looking like the Olsen twins circa 2005. And ladies, no matter whether you are...blessed is the bust area or not, please...wear at least a pretty bra under the sheer tops, and preferably a dainty camisole. We’re going for feminine, not floozy!
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The Eyes Have It! By Steph Moore
While updating your closet to reflect your favorite designs, don’t forget eyewear is also a crucial element in pulling together a cohesive look. Say goodbye to the safe looks of years past and avert your attention to sasy and fun! Our favorite designers are bringing a modern yet playful twist to classic eyewear silhouettes. Whether it’s a contemporary cat eye, bold color block or retro rounded frames complete with an ombre glow, you’re free to let your personality shine through!
Two Unique Collections That Will Make Your Summer Style Sizzle By Elise French If creating your own unique look for summer gets your imagination going, then you’re going to love the pieces that both Chelsea Flower and Love Sam have come up with for the season ~ amazing styles, beautiful materials, unique embellishments…items you just won’t find anywhere else!
Love Sam Collection
GlassesUSA.com, the best new online destination for designer frames and prescription eyewear, has all the most up-to-date fashions at major discounted prices. The styles showcased include brands like Lucky, Guess, Converse, Jones New York and Prada and are all featured on the site for a fraction of the cost you’d pay at traditional retailers. Visit www. GlassesUSA.com to check out the full collections.
2012
Take a trip to the Sahara Desert with Love Sam’s Summer Collection. Embark on your own fashion reawakening with simply chic separates including detail-rich maxi skirts, embellished tops and mosaic print dresses. Standout pieces include the flamenco maxi dress in a grey patterned tie dye print, gathered maxi skirts in a range of neutrals and the beaded fringe kaftan, with its interesting cut and embellished neck.
After you’ve seen what the site has to offer, consult your very own virtual optician to get started. Based on the results from a short personality quiz, the optician (partnering with the best laboratories in the industry, GlassesUSA. com associates are specially trained to provide professionally accurate answers for all prescription eyeglasses needs) will help you choose from options like frame features you want and the frame measurements you need. And to make things even easier, the virtual mirror allows you to “Try Before You Buy!” Just upload a photo of yourself to see what glasses look best with your face shape, complexion and most importantly, your sense of style! Does it get any easier? www.GlassesUSA.com
Chelsea Flower Summer 2012 Collection A quintessential compilation of summer staples, Chelsea Flower has taken its modern scope on classic silhouettes to new heights with their Summer 2012 collection. Pulling inspiration from the effortlessly stylish it girl that had a permanent seat in the VIP room at Studio 54, Chelsea Flower blends retro with modern and uptown with downtown. The palette consists of soft pastels, punches of neon & shiny metallics. The collection also boasts new fashion forward cuts including asymmetric tanks, off shoulder tube tops and lace trim maxi dresses, making a truly ideal assortment for today’s cutting edge closets. Standout pieces include effortlessly chic ombre tops, beaded tanks and flowy dresses. Celebrity cult favorite, the cropped roll-up shirt, as seen on Rihanna, Sofia Vergara and Camilla Alves is also back this season! The Chelsea Flower Summer 2012 collection retails from $150 - $370 and is available at fine retailers nationwide including Barneys, Bloomingdale’s, Intermix, Scoop and Saks Fifth Avenue.
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Summer
Each item is made up of fine materials including cotton, silk and crinkle-gauze that resists wrinkles and wear allowing versatility and easy packing. The Love Sam Summer 2012 collection retails from $120 - $350 and is available at fine boutiques nationwide (including Barney’s, Calypso & Intermix) and online retailers (including Bigdropnyc.com and Revolveclothing.com).
Mally Beauty Still Making Women Look and Feel Beautiful! By Kristie Bartlett As the President and Creator of Mally Beauty, Mally Roncal has created countless beauty products, including trailblazing beauty solutions from “bulletproof’ makeup that stays put all day long to the first clear and powderless translucent powder. After years of working with A-list celebrities, Mally took the next step in her career to create Mally Beauty and ~ over the past 7 years (Mally beauty just celebrated its 7th anniversary in March!) ~ has provided women worldwide with her unique tips, tricks, and, most importantly, tools that allow them to achieve the sexy-classy looks that make them look and feel their most beautiful. It’s no surprise that Mally and her products have become so popular ~ she genuinely cares about the quality of her make-up and about encouraging and helping women to feel their best. There’s love in every single Mally product, and it shows. Here are three of my favorite Mally products: Mally Beauty Evercolor Face Defender ~ Mally’s Evercolor Poreless Face Defender is the perfect finishing touch for your makeup look. This remarkable technology yields a waterclear, featherweight product that diffuses the look of pores and fine lines, helps makeup last longer, and helps protect your makeup’s over all look. It finishes, mattifies, and smoothes without the dry, ashy, obvious look of most powders, and is applied with a uniquely buffed-edge Japanese sponge. Mally Beauty Chic Smoky Eye Kit ~ We all know that the smoky eye is all the rage, and Mally’s all-in-one eye kit has everything to create that smooth, sexy, sultry look that draws attention to the eyes without looking overdone or clowny. Brownstone is gorgeous with neutral, earthy tones. Skyscraper is sultry win a rick slate/gray pallets. Central Park flourishes with an assortment of greens. Nolita Navy is your perfect blue ~ never retro, never cheesy. Midtown Merlot is a collection of sweet burgundies. Plum Chelsea is a warm set of natural plums. The kit includes an eyeliner pencil, too. Mally Beauty Liquid High Shine Lipstick Pens ~ A rich, creamy formula glides on in an easy-to-use pan package, allows great precision while delivering the creamy, full color with a professional brush. It feels moist and smooth on your lips ~ never dry or waxy ~ and delivers a polished, professional finish. Nothing is more inviting than an amazing, shiny lip and the High Shine pens give you just the perfect amount of special opaque color combined with the sexy shine of a gloss ~ the best of both worlds! Never leave home without it! These and the Mally Beauty collection are available at www.mallybeauty.com! And you can Tweet Mally at @MallyBeauty and post on her Facebook Wall at Facebook.com/MallyBeauty! PHOTO (top): Mally Roncal
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