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LIVEWIRE: Kenny Chesney announces new Gillette Stadium dates, E4 BEER NUT: Brews you have to learn to like, E10
WINE PRESS: What questions do you ask at a wine tasting?, E10
Music biopics
PLUS
Bob Dylan album review, Page E5
10 movie biographies worth checking out, Page E2
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THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM
ON THE COVER
music biopics worth seeing
M
By George Lenker
Special to The Republican
ost everyone likes a good film biography of one of their favorite artists. Of course, these movies are fraught with peril, as fans have definite ideas about their idols, and if the script or actor playing the main character doesn’t measure up to either the history of fans’ expectations, the film will be excoriated. Much attention was given to “Bohemian Rhapsody,” a look at the life of Queen frontman Freddie Mercury, which took home four Academy Awards last year. Opinions on various movies will be mixed, of course, but certain biopics are pretty much winners in most corners. So while we remain somewhat in semi-lockdown (at least as far as the arts are concerned) here are 10 great film biographies of music stars. In no particular order: Joaquin Phoenix plays Johnny Cash in “Walk The Line.” (KEN REGAN / TWENTIETH CENTURY FOX)
“Walk the Line” This Johnny Cash biopic is certainly not perfect, but driven by the electric performances of Joaquin Phoenix as Cash and Reese Witherspoon as June Carter, the script is sturdy enough to allow them to shine. While the reception for the film was basically positive, some critics noted how it ignored the last few decades of Cash’s life. Witherspoon won an Oscar for her performance. “Straight Outta Compton” This 2015 film about the rap group N.W.A. became the highest-grossing musical biopic in history (passing the above-mentioned “Walk the Line,” which held the record for 10 years) just two weeks after it was released. (It was passed by “Bohemian Rhapsody” three years later.) This film is particularly topical now in light of N.W.A.’s anti-police song, the name of which cannot be printed here. A fascinating look at the be-
From left, MC Ren (Aldis Hodge), DJ Yella (Neil Brown Jr.), Eazy-E (Jason Mitchell), Ice Cube (O’Shea Jackson Jr.) and Dr. Dre (Corey Hawkins) in “Straight Outta Compton.” The film tells the true story of how these cultural rebels armed only with their lyrics, swagger, bravado and raw talent stood up to the authorities that meant to keep them down and formed the world’s most dangerous group, N.W.A. (UNIVERSAL PICTURES)
ginnings of Dr. Dre, Ice Cube and Eazy-E “Ray” Similar to “Walk the Line,” this biopic of Ray Charles is mainly fueled by the performance of the lead role, in this case Jaime Foxx as Charles. Foxx not only won the Oscar for best actor, but also the Golden Globe, BAFTA, Screen
Jamie Foxx as American legend Ray Charles in the musical biographical drama “Ray.” (NICOLA GOODE / UNIVERSAL PICTURES)
Actors Guild, and Critics’ Choice lead actor awards, making him only the second actor to win all five major leading role awards for the same performance. SEE BIOPICS, PAGE E3
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Taron Egerton as Elton John in “Rocketman.” (DAVID APPLEBY / PARAMOUNT PICTURES)
Last year’s film documenting the life of Elton John drew rave reviews, with lead actor Taron Egerton receiving acclaim from all corners, including kudos from John himself. The movie was also hailed for not softening the edges of the singer’s life.
Paul Dano as the young Brian Wilson in “Love & Mercy.” (FRANCOIS DUHAMEL / ROADSIDE ATTRACTIONS)
Biopics CONTINUED FROM PAGE E2
“Sid and Nancy” While this one may be a bit depressing, its brutal look at the abbreviated lives of Sex Pistols bassist Sid Vicious and his girlfriend Nancy Spungen is actually a somewhat romantic tale of two lost souls. Gary Oldman excels as Vicious and Chloe Webb came out of nowhere (her first film role) to capture the lovesick (and drug-sick) intensity of Spungen. Courtney Love had auditioned for the Nancy role, but it seems director Alex Cox made a wise choice here with Webb. “Rocketman” Last year’s film documenting the life of Elton John drew rave reviews, with lead actor Taron Egerton receiving acclaim from all corners, including kudos from John himself. The movie was also hailed for not softening the edges of the singer’s life.
“I’m Not There” This somewhat off-kilter probe into Bob Dylan featured six actors portraying different facets of the mercurial songwriter’s personality. Somewhat surprisingly, although not really, considering her talent, Cate Blanchette
received some of the biggest kudos for her Oscar-nominated performance. “Family Band” This “Behind the Music”-type look at The Cowsills is easily the least-known biopic on this list, but it also may be the best, as it actually features the members of the band recounting the turbulence behind their clean-cut image. A sad and poignant look at an underrated group that got boxed into an image it never wanted.
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Lou Diamond Phillips in “La Bamba.” (PUBLICITY STI)
the young Wilson and John Cusack as the older version), he also felt the movie focused too much on the darker aspects of his life. “La Bamba” A beautifully sculpted performance by Lou Diamond Phillips as seminal rocker Ritchie Valens, this film is largely carried by Valens’ music. But Phillips brings Valens’
earnestness to life. The movie also features several wellknown musicians in supporting roles: Marshall Crenshaw as Buddy Holly and Brian Setzer (of Stray Cats fame) as Eddie Cochran. “Coal Miner’s Daughter” Four years after Sissy Spacek scared the daylights out of America with her portrayal of the title role in
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“Love & Mercy” This look at the life of The Beach Boys’ Brian Wilson was acclaimed by Time magazine as one of the best films of the year in 2015. While Wilson himself liked the performances (Paul Dano as
“Carrie,” she won the hearts of the nation (and critics) with her portrayal of country music legend Loretta Lynn. Lynn actually chose Spacek for the role, for which she won an Oscar.
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E4 | THURSDAY, JUNE 18, 2020
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MUSIC
K
Kenny Chesney announces new dates
ENNY CHESNEY has moved his 2020 “Chillaxification“ tour to the summer of 2021 and has announced new dates for his Gillette Stadium shows. Chesney will now play the Foxborough stadium on Aug. 27-28, 2021. Tickets purchased for the original dates will be honored for the new shows. “I kept talking to experts, city officials, team owners, medical people, looking to understand how we were coming along with resolving the health issues,” Chesney explained when postponing the tour. “I had kept hoping that as time passed, information would not only increase, but there would be some sort of solution so people could come back together. But things weren’t getting any clearer, so I did the hardest thing for me, but obviously best option for the safety of No Shoes Nation, my road family and everyone at the buildings involved.” It will be the 20th and 21st time that the country superstar has headlined Gillette, which he credits as the birthplace of his “No Shoes Nation” fan base.
“to engage and build the political power of young people.”
Country music star Kenny Chesney has moved his 2020 “Chillaxification“ tour to the summer of 2021 and will now play Gillette Stadium on Aug. 27-28, 2021. (RICK DIAMOND / IPTC RECORD/ GETTY IMAGES)
Liner notes • Springfield rock band Staind was set to go out on tour this summer as part of Disturbed’s 20th anniversary of “The Sickness” tour. Those plans have been put on hold due to COVID-19 restrictions that have decimated the live event industry. The tour, which also featured Bad Wolves, was scheduled for the Xfinity Center in Mansfield on July 30 and the Xfinity Theatre in Hartford on Aug. 2.
(AMY HARRIS / INVISION)
• “Rock the Vote” will go online this year with a live stream concert featuring Katy Perry. The event is set to take place on today at 8 p.m. through democracy summer.org. The two-hour virtual concert will also feature performances by Black Eyed Peas, Ne-Yo, Big Freedia, Lucy Hale. “I’m excited to be a part of this kickoff to Democracy Summer 2020 with so many amazing talents, activists and speakers,” Perry said in a statement. “The young people of
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Aaron Lewis of Staind performs during Louder Than Life at Highland Festival Grounds at KY Expo Center on Sept. 27, 2019, in Louisville, Ky. The Springfield rock band’s summer tour plans have been put on hold due to COVID-19 restrictions.
Tickets will be honored for the new dates when they become official. Staind was coming off a five-year hiatus as members busied themselves with solo projects. Last year, lead singer Aaron Lewis released his third country-influenced studio album “State I’m In.” Over the course of their career, Staind has released seven studio albums and eight Top 10 singles, selling more than 15 million albums worldwide. The multiplatinum “Break The Cycle,” released in 2001, featured the smash single, “It’s Been A While,” which spent 20 weeks in the No. 1 slot.
• The Backstreet Boys have secured new dates for a postponed summer tour. The boy band will be back in 2021. Originally scheduled for the Xfinity Theatre in Hartford on July 18 and the Xfinity Center Donnie Moorhouse in Mansfield on Sept. 12, the LiveWire group will now perform in Mansfield on July 7, 2021, and July 17, 2021, in Hartford. America are speaking loud Tickets purchased for the and clear on the streets and online, and come November, original dates will be honored. The tour will support the it will be more important than group’s latest release “DNA.” ever to fight for justice and The Backstreet Boys are equality, and against systemic considered the bestselling boy racism, with our ballots.” Rock the Vote was formed in band of all time with over 100 SEE LIVEWIRE, PAGE E5 1990 with the stated mission
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THURSDAY, JUNE 18, 2020 | E5
MUSIC
LiveWire
Kennedy Center Honors.
CONTINUED FROM PAGE E4
million records sold worldwide.
“Rough and Rowdy Ways” by Bob Dylan. (COLUMBIA VIA AP)
ALBUM REVIEW
Bob Dylan’s latest is pulp-noir masterpiece By Mikael Wood
• Amidst all the concert cancellations and postponements, Hawks and Reed in Greenfield is holding out hope and touting a new show. Mud Morganfield is scheduled for the Greenfield venue on Aug. 15 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets for the show are on sale through the venue website at hawksandreed.com. Morganfield is the eldest son of blues legend Muddy Waters and an acclaimed artist in his own right. His 2012 album “Son of the Seventh Son” was nominated in the best album and the traditional blues male artist album categories of the 2013 Blues Foundation Blues Music Awards. • A week after pulling the plug on this summer’s “Miraculous and Supernatural” tour, including shows in Boston and Connecticut, classic rock icon Santana has announced new dates for the tour in 2021. The tour, also featuring Earth, Wind, and Fire, will now play Xfinity Center in Mansfield on Aug. 11, 2021, and Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Connecticut, on Aug. 13, 2021. Almost all dates on the tour have been rescheduled with the exception of stops in Nashville and Montreal. Tickets for the original dates will be honored for the new shows. Santana released its 25th album, “Africa Speaks,” last summer. Earth, Wind and Fire were the recipients of 2019’s
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• One of the largest and most iconic music festivals in the world has been canceled. Lollapalooza, founded by Perry Farrell of Jane’s Addiction, has been shuttered for 2020. This year’s event was supposed to take place from July 30 through Aug. 2 at Grant
• The last-standing major U.S. concert festival has thrown in the towel. Coachella has been canceled. The festival was originally supposed to take place the second and third weekend of April prior to the pandemic. It was then moved to the second and third weekends of October. The event, which draws up to 125,000 fans a day had headliners such as Rage Against the Machine, Travis Scott, and Frank Ocean. There are discussions to bring back a smaller version of the event in April 2021. • “Whose Live Anyway?” the improv performance starring Ryan Stiles, Greg Proops, Joel Murray, and Jeff B. Davis has a new date at the Calvin Theatre. Originally scheduled for June 13 before moving to Aug. 28, the show has been postponed again to April 25, 2021. Tickets for the previous two dates will be honored. The performance features the current cast members of the Emmy-nominated TV show “Whose Line Is It Anyway?”
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Rowdy Ways,” Dylan is tossing Los Angeles Times them off as though it’s light A word of advice: Don’t work for a hard case like him. mess with Bob Dylan, who, The tough talk is hardly new at 79, rips, snorts and cackles for Dylan, whose genius has through his new “Rough and run neck-and-neck with his Rowdy Ways” album like a nastiness for the half-century man with something – or abso- in which he’s been rock’s most lutely nothing – to prove. revered singer-songwriter Here he is threatening to (and as often as not resented make somebody’s wife a it). “Tempest,” from 2012, was widow; there he is promisparticularly wet with gore – “I ing to bring vengeance on got dogs could tear you limb somebody’s head. In one from limb,” he growled in song he tells a guy, “I’ll take a “Pay in Blood” – that suggestsword and hack off your arm,” ed he’d found nothing in his deepening study of history to before adding in unprintable inspire any optimism about language that the size of the the future. guy’s manhood will get him Yet “Rough and Rowdy nowhere – a genuine shock (and a genuine delight) to hear Ways,” his first album of new material in eight years, due out from a Nobel laureate. Then there’s “My Own SEE ALBUM, PAGE E7 Version of You,” a “Frankenstein”-like phantasmagoria that opens with these incredible couplets: OPEN “All through the summers WEDNESDAY – SATURDAY into January I’ve been visiting morgues 5–7 & 7:30 – 9:30 PM and monasteries WITH LIMITED MENU Looking for the necessary 429 Morgan Road, W. Springfield body parts PLEASE READ GUIDELINES: at the Limbs and livers and brains Irish Cultural Center IrishCenterwne.org and hearts” Rappers call lines like these OPEN BY RESERVATION ONLY: 413-342-4358 “bars,” and on “Rough and
• While concerts, festivals, and other scheduled large gatherings crumbled around him, Harry Styles held fast. The singer finally announced the cancellation of his 2020 summer tour just weeks before it was set to begin. Styles was set to tour with Jenny Lewis and had dates set for TD Garden in Boston on July 10 and Mohegan Sun on July 12. The new dates are now in 2021. Styles will play Mohegan Sun Arena on Oct. 23, 2021, and TD Garden on Oct. 25, 2021. Tickets for the original shows will be honored for the new dates. Styles’ singing career began in 2010 as a contestant on the British television show “The X Factor.” Originally eliminated from the singing competition, he was brought back to form the boy band One Direction. He signed a solo deal with Columbia in 2016. His latest album “Fine Line” came out in December.
Park in Chicago. The lineup for the event had not yet been announced as COVID-19 concerns and restrictions cast quite a bit of doubt on the live concert industry. Lollapalooza joins SXSW as major festivals to move off of the summer schedule.
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MOVIES DVD RELEASES
Say amen to ‘Saint Frances’
From left, Kelly O’Sullivan and Ramona Edith-Williams in “Saint Frances.” (COREY STEIN / OSCILLOSCOPE OSCILLOSCOPE)
What to stream? By Michael O’Sullivan
Washington Post
The subject and narrator of “In My Blood It Runs” is Dujuan Hoosan, a 10-yearold aboriginal child healer in Australia, destined to carry on his people’s tradition of naturopathic and energetic medicine – if he can stay out of juvenile detention, that is. The moving observational documentary looks at the effects of Australia’s educational system on indigenous kids such as Dujuan, too many of whom wind up in institutions. The film questions whether that is the result of policies that emphasize cultural assimilation, treating indigenous people with, at best, benign neglect, or, at worst, outright hostility. The subject could not be more timely, as the theme of forgotten communities and European cultural hegemony in Australia reverberates with the ongoing protests in the United States over racial injustice. What is to become of the customs of
Dujuan’s dying community? As Dujuan’s grandmother laments, “We want our kids to grow up learning in both ways.” Unrated. At afisilver.afi.com. Contains disturbing images of juvenile detention and a brief rude gesture. In English, Aboriginal English, Arrernte and Garrwa with subtitles. 84 minutes. Taking its punning title from the name of the character Nomi Malone – the ingénue stripper (played by Elizabeth Berkley) at the heart of the so-bad-it’sgood film “Showgirls” – the documentary “You Don’t Nomi” isn’t the first work of cinema history to take the 1995 bomb, which has since achieved cult status, seriously. That might be film critic Adam Nayman’s 2014 book “It Doesn’t Suck: ‘Showgirls,’” which argues that the film isn’t simply an execrable hoot but also a work of thoughtful intelligence and craft. You may not buy that argument, although Nayman himself makes it strenuously enough, and with good humor, in the film. Some of “Nomi’s” other interview subjects, such as critic Barbara Schulgasser-Parker, don’t agree either. This lively back-and-forth is all
By Katie Foran-McHale
Tribune News Service
An aimless 30-something gets needed life lessons from an incoming first-grader in the top new DVD releases for this week. “Saint Frances”: Embarrassed and frustrated with her job as a server, Bridget (Kelly O’Sullivan), a 34-year-old woman who doesn’t want to admit she’s a millennial (or talk about her feelings), lands a nanny position to 6-yearold Frances (Ramona Edith Williams), despite much experience or a general interest in kids. Meanwhile, after hooking up with a sweet, somewhat hapless 26-year-old man, Jace (Max Lipchitz), Bridget gets pregnant and has an abortion. Physical side effects linger through the intense care of the life-loving child, her recovery lasting the duration of the gig, one gorgeous Chicago summer. Written by O’Sullivan, the quiet but powerful script tackles the physical messiness of sex, menstruation and abortion with grace and silliness, and manages to make Frances equal parts precocious and grounded (largely thanks to Williams’ life-affirming performance). After being exposed mostly to peers who look down on her, well-meaning parents who don’t understand her and men she feels ambivalent
toward, Bridget finds a community with Frances and Frances’ moms (Charin Alvarez and Lily Mojekwu), and through them, with herself. Also new on DVD “2 Minutes of Fame”: After going viral, an aspiring stand-up heads to Los Angeles to make it big. Jay Pharoah, Katt Williams, Andy Allo, Keke Palmer and Valery M. Ortiz star. “Bad Therapy”: A therapist (Michaela Watkins) wreaks havoc on a couple’s (Alicia Silverstone and Rob Corddry) relationship. “Braveheart”: The 1995 film starring Mel Gibson as the leader of the revolt against King Edward I of England has a commemorative Blu-ray release for its 25th anniversary. “The Etruscan Smile”: An elderly Scotsman stuck in his ways (Brian Cox) heads to San Francisco to seek medical treatment and a relationship with his estranged son. In English and Scottish Gaelic. “Friday the 13th”: The classic horror film has a commemorative Blu-ray release for its 40th anniversary. “Gladiator”: The 2000 film starring Russell Crowe as a wronged Roman ex-general has a commemorative Blu-ray release for its 20th SEE DVD, PAGE E8
• In the drama “Here Awhile,” Anna Camp (“Pitch Perfect”) plays a terminally ill woman who plans to take advantage of Oregon’s Death with Dignity Act, moving in with her estranged brother (Steven Strait) in Portland in preparation for ending her life. Unrated. Available on various streaming platforms. 82 minutes. • Executive-produced by singer Jewel and actress Rosario Dawson, “Lost in Dujuan Hoosan in “In My Blood It Runs.” America” looks at the problem (MAYA NEWELL / SENTIENT ART FILM) of homeless youths. According to the Hollywood Reporter, part of the fun and provocation Also streaming the documentary “serves the • In “Return to Hardwick,” of “Nomi,” which can’t seem to valuable purpose of shedding make up its own mind whether documentarian Michael Sellers a much-needed spotlight on a “Showgirls” is pathetic and pe- follows a group of people deproblem that, as anyone who destrian, as Schulgasser-Parker scended from Americans who has recently walked on any puts it, or a brilliant social criserved with the 93rd Bomb city’s streets can attest, only tique, misogynist hooey, hilari- Unit at Hardwick Airfield in En- seems to be getting worse.” ously inept, or all of the above. gland during World War II and Unrated. Available on various It’s complicated. Perhaps the their reunion trip to the site. streaming platforms. 95 minutes. best characterization is this suc- The Irish Film Critic calls the cinct summation that “Nomi” film “very touching,” saying • In the documentary “For itself settles on, in a film that that “past and present are abThey Know Not What They solutely seamlessly woven tois arguably more enjoyable to Do,” four families with gay or watch – and indisputably more gether in Seller’s editing.” PG. trans children address their provocative – than its subject: a Available on various streaming difficult journeys toward accepplatforms. Contains war-related tance. The Hollywood Reporter “masterpiece of s---.” images and brief strong language. writes that the film is “always Unrated. At afisilver.afi.com. thoughtful and tightly edited, 73 minutes. Contains nudity, sex and coarse language. 90 minutes. SEE STREAM, PAGE E7
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THURSDAY, JUNE 18, 2020 | E7
Stream
“Sibling rivalry is a consistent subtext but only that - Mr. Adrià’s main concern is to creCONTINUED FROM PAGE E6 ate,” says the New York Times. and it has an emotional impact “As it happens, in this generally that not many docs can equal.” likable film he is at his most Unrated. Available at afisilver.afi. endearing when fixing himself com. 91 minutes. a simple (but indeed delicious looking) grilled ham and cheese • The documentary “Consandwich.” Unrated. Available structing Albert” is a portrait at afisilver.afi.com. In Spanish of Albert Adrià, as the Spanish with subtitles. 82 minutes. chef tries to step out of the shadow of his more famous old• In the faith-based drama er brother, Ferran Adrià, with “Selfie Dad,” comedian Michael Jr. plays a former stand-up whom Albert worked at the comic who finds viral success renowned restaurant El Bulli. by posting funny videos, while the rest of his personal life suffers. PG. Available on various streaming platforms. Contains mature thematic elements and some suggestive material.
• In the horror film “The Dinner Party,” a surgeon/
• “Artemis Fowl” is based on the popular series of fantasy novels by Eoin Colfer about a child genius and criminal An audience takes in a screening of the cult film “Showgirls” in mastermind (Ferdia Shaw) the documentary “You Don’t Nomi.” (RLJE FILMS) investigating his father’s mysterious disappearance. Directed is known for taking on difficult by Kenneth Branagh, the film foodie invites several people also stars Josh Gad and Colin to his house for a meal that de- Palestinian clients, includscends into madness. Unrated. ing some who are accused of Farrell. PG. Available on DisAvailable on various streaming attacking Israelis. “Provocative ney+. Contains fantasy action, peril and some rude humor. 115 platforms. 116 minutes. as the film is,” the New York minutes. Times writes, “it doesn’t fully • The documentary “Picreconcile Tsemel’s contradicture a Scientist” looks at the tions, if such a thing were even • A British tailor (Bill Nighy) struggles of women in scientific possible or desirable.” Unrated. searches for his missing son in fields. Unrated. Available at the- Available on iTunes, Amazon and “Sometimes Always Never.” miracletheatre.com. 95 minutes. Vudu. In English and Arabic with PG-13. At theavalon.org and subtitles. 114 minutes. themiracletheatre.com. Contains mature thematic elements • “Advocate” is a documentary about Lea Tsemel, a and some sexual references. 91 • Megan Fox and Josh controversial Israeli lawyer who Duhamel star in “Think Like minutes.
would be winding its way toward the Hollywood Bowl for a show next week. And the nationwide protests sparked by the police killing of George Floyd have only darkened the country’s mood. “It sickened me no end to see George tortured to death like that,” Dylan told the New York Times in a recent phone interview from his home in Malibu. (Asked how he’s been faring in quarantine, the singer said he’s been painting and welding a bit, which actually makes it even harder to imagine how Bob Dylan keeps himself amused all day.) But as always Dylan’s not worried about reflecting the times; he’s taking the long view on an album stuffed with names and totems from the past. Most notably, there’s “Murder Most Foul,” the 17-minute-long epic that first appeared as a surprise single in March in which he traces the twisted meanings of the Kennedy assassination – not an uncomplicated event, as it happens, in the troubled story of American race relations. “Mother of Muses” ponders the motives of various well-
known military figures “and the battles they fought”; “I Contain Multitudes,” which Dylan called “trance writing,” quotes one of Walt Whitman’s famous verses and name-drops Anne Frank. He also appears to have nature on his mind – lots of references to weather and seasons and flowers, as in “Key West (Philosopher Pilot),” where he’s got more swagger-ific bars about blooming bougainvillea – along with sex: “I break open your grapes / I suck out the juice,” he sings, practically licking his lips, in “Goodbye Jimmy Reed,” while his panting delivery in “Crossing the Rubicon” somehow makes that one feel even dirtier. “Goodbye Jimmy Reed,” which toasts – and mimics – the influential bluesman, is far from the only song here in which Dylan pays tribute to a musician; he also mentions Leon Russell, Etta James, Thelonious Monk, Patsy Cline, the Eagles (!), Elvis Presley and the Rolling Stones, with whom he seemed embarrassed to have been roped into Desert Trip (aka Oldchella) a few years ago. But maybe winning that Nobel
• A reformed neo-Nazi seeks redemption after his release from jail in “Tainted.” TV-MA. Available on demand via various streaming platforms. 89 minutes. Anna Camp in “Here Awhile.” (TRULIME ENTERTAINMENT / 1091)
Album CONTINUED FROM PAGE E5
tomorrow, is more mischievous than mean-spirited. Perhaps this is the aftereffect of the years Dylan spent burrowing into his love of Frank Sinatra and the Great American Songbook across three covers albums (one of them a 30-track behemoth) released between 2015 and 2017. Obviously, he’s no crooner; in most of his new songs, his voice is a brutally ravaged wheeze. But you can detect a bit of Sinatra’s playfulness in Dylan’s spry delivery here – the clear enjoyment Sinatra took in portraying roguish smoothies and silver-tongued thugs. “Go home to your wife / Stop visiting mine,” he sneers over the last-wine-bar-on-Earth guitar of “Black Rider,” “One of these days I’ll forget to be kind.” He’s glowering and winking at the same time. It’s a funny moment, of course, for a (relatively) funny record. Were it not for the COVID-19 pandemic, Dylan’s so-called Never Ending Tour
a Dog,” a comedy about a 12-year-old tech prodigy (Gabriel Bateman) who conducts a science experiment that allows him to have a telepathic connection to his dog. PG. Available on various streaming platforms. Contains rude and suggestive material. 91 minutes.
eased any remaining worries about being viewed the wrong way. Speaking of music, nobody’s gets less attention than Dylan’s from word-obsessed critics. Yet “Rough and Rowdy Ways” rolls out one marvel after another, with killer playing from the singer’s road band, which as of last fall counts Matt Chamberlain on drums and Bob Britt on guitar alongside Dylan’s trusty old hands. (A spokesman for the singer said the album carried no producer credit, though his last few were produced by Dylan under the pseudonym Jack Frost.) “False Prophet” and “Goodbye Jimmy Reed” are gloriously scuzzy roadhouse stomps; “My Own Version of You” and “Crossing the Rubicon” creep along on grooves you can smell. And though Dylan spends most of the album moaning and croaking in a mock-villainous mode, a couple of cuts are almost staggeringly pretty, not least “I’ve Made Up My Mind to Give Myself to You,” which couldn’t come closer to embodying the scene he sets at the top of the song: “I’m sitting
on my terrace, lost in the stars / Listening to the sounds of the sad guitars.” The music makes you want to believe his wee-small-hours act; the devilish catch in his voice reminds you to think twice.
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VIDEO GAME REVIEW
One of the best video games ever made ‘The Last of Us Part II’ marries heart-stopping gameplay, environmental storytelling and moral complexity
and their looks. The developers at Naugthy Dog have a flair for narrative pacing. Characters are treated to moments of aesthetic BY Christopher Byrd exultation – times when they Special To The Washington Post lose themselves in the beauty “The Last of Us Part II” is of a scene or the company of an astonishing achievement another. This technique makes – a searing demonstration of them that much more endearing, that much more soulful. how a video game can marry As I moved from one extraorheart-stopping gameplay, gorgeous environmental storytelldinarily rendered environment ing and anxiety-inducing moral to the next – simply coming complexity. across a light source in a room Though it uses the tropes of can be diverting – the staggerthe zombie apocalypse, it coming amount of detail on display pletely transcends the genre. everywhere made me mull over “The Last of Us Part II” is not the human cost that goes into a game about zombies. It’s a making something on the scale meditation on loss – not simply of “The Last of Us Part II.” In loss of life, but of community, an industry notorious for asking family, and individual capabilemployees to keep long hours, ities – and the effort it takes to the perfectionist culture at A scene from “The Last of Us Part II.” muddle through maddening Naughty Dog still stands out. (SONY INTERACTIVE ENTERTAINMENT) grief. An article in Kotaku by Jason “The Last of Us” (2013) told Schreier describes the onergentle night. Unless she performs a “silent takedown,” i.e. the story of Joel and Ellie. Joel is ous labor conditions around ‘THE LAST OF US sneaking up on someone and a middle-aged smuggler hired the project. In it, he quotes a PART II’ slitting their throat, her victims developer for “The Last of Us to transport Ellie, a young teenDeveloped by: Naughty Dog ager, across the country. They will often spend their remaining Part II”: “This can’t be somePublished by: Sony Interachead out West to meet up with seconds pleading for their lives, thing that’s continuing over and tive Entertainment the Fireflies, a hard-pressed wailing, or calling to their loved over for each game, because it Available on: PlayStation 4 is unsustainable,” the developer group of survivors living in ones. The developers go to the shadow of a collapsed tremendous lengths to human- said. “At a certain point you ize many of Ellie’s adversaries. realize, ‘I can’t keep doing this. society who hope to use Ellie to I’m getting older. I can’t stay synthesize a vaccine to counter with Joel and Ellie living among Indeed, the towering achievement of “The Last of Us Part II” and work all night.’” (Notathe plague that has turned most a small community of people bly, Schreier reported on the is that it’s constructed in such in Wyoming. In the intervenof the human population into perfectionist culture at Rockstar a way that by the end I wanted flesh-chomping monstrosities. ing time, a rift has opened up As it stands, Ellie is the only between them as Ellie has come nothing more than for Ellie Games, whose “Red Dead Reknown person to have survived to be more self-reliant. demption 2” is one of the only to renounce killing because being bitten by “the infected.” games that can compete with Due to the incredibly restric- of the psychological harm it tive nature of the embargo From the beginning Joel tries was inflicting on her and those “The Last of Us Part II” on a agreement, there is much about around her. to remain unattached to her to visual level.) It’s for that reason the plot, the characters, and ward himself from potential that I could not help but read How gloriously paradoxical the overall structure of “The suffering. But eventually he is it that one of the finest action into this letter which Ellie finds Last of Us Part II” that I can’t comes to love Ellie as a daughgames ever made pushes things in her travels: ter. After delivering her to the discuss. What I can say is that “Eugene – to such an extreme that I wanted to reject its central game Fireflies, he is emotionally after weathering a harrowing “I’m begging you to come mechanics? At certain points undone to discover that she loss, Ellie travels out to Seattle home! will have to forfeit her life for to settle a vendetta. Her journey during the second half of the “The Fireflies want to save story I found myself reluctant the manufacture of a vaccine. is one of the bloodiest treks the world – I say let them. ... Let to press the buttons that would them develop a vaccine to save Though Ellie is fully prepared in video game history. (I can’t lead to injury of another charac- mankind. Maybe one day we’ll to sacrifice herself for the good think of another game that ter. Talk about a mind trip. of humanity, Joel ignores her makes, say, the amputation of live to see the fruits of their What makes this level of wishes and forcibly removes her a limb a longed-for best-case fantasies. Until then, I have to from the medical facility while scenario.) Although many packs violence bearable are the put our daughter first. sections of downtime genershe is under anesthesia, then of zombies lie between Ellie “The Fireflies will be fine ously spread throughout the lies to her about the incident. and her goal, it’s the violence without you. Your daughter The episode at the hospital orchestrated by humans against campaign. Watching Ellie and won’t.” is repeatedly revisited and other humans that lingers in the Joel stroll through a museum, “The Last of Us Part II” is one examined from different angles mind. for example, is as interesting of the best video games I’ve in “The Last of Us Part II,” as any of the action sequences. ever played; I hope the cost to When Ellie kills someone, which picks up a few years later they rarely go meekly into the So expressive are their words the developers was worth it.
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anniversary. “Impractical Jokers: The Movie”: Based on the truTV reality comedy series, The Tenderloins (Brian Quinn, James Murray, Sal Vulcano and Joe Gatto) participate in hidden camera challenges for a shot at redemption. “Kill Mode”: An ex-freedom fighter (Dave Mantel) returns after uncovering a scandal regarding the world’s biggest company. “LEGO DC Shazam: Magic and Monsters”: In this computer-animated film, Shazam (voiced by Sean Astin) must save the Justice League from the evil Monster Society. “The Marshes”: A team of biologists (Dafna Kronental, Sarah Armanious, Matthew Cooper) discover a sinister presence while doing field work. “Pretty in Pink”: The 1986 rom-com starring Molly Ringwald as a high school outcast with a crush on a popular boy is being released as a Blu-ray collectible. “Project Blue Book Season 2”: The History network’s sci-fi series follows Dr. J. Allen Hynek (Aidan Gillen) and Air Force Capt. Michael Quinn (Michael Malarkey) as they travel around the United States in search of the truth behind possible UFO sightings. “The Quarry”: A fugitive takes over a small-town preacher’s identity after killing him. Stars Shea Whigham, Michael Shannon and Catalina Sandino Moreno. “Sniper: Assassin’s End”: Father-son sniper team Thomas and Brandon Beckett (Tom Berenger and Chad Michael Collins) face threats from Russian mercenaries, a yakuza-trained assassin and the CIA. “A Soldier’s Revenge”: A bounty hunter (Neal Bledsoe) searches for a missing mother (AnnaLynne McCord) while looking to destroy a Civil War major (Rob Mayes).
THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM
WEEKEND
THURSDAY, JUNE 18, 2020 | E9
DINE & WINE
Restaurant chains likely to keep streamlined menus
A
Starbucks has announced plans to close 400 of its company owned cafes over the next 18 months and replace them with new store designs, including a stripped-down Starbucks Pickup layout that focuses on a grab-and-go experience. (JUSTIN SULLIVAN / GETTY IMAGES)
outside dining. Current hours for takeout and outside dining are Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, noon to 9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.; and Sunday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Bridgeside’s menu can be seen at bridgesidegrille. com.
Hugh Robert
door space that met Phase 2 requirements, so the Bean Group, which manages the restaurant, decided to “take it to the streets.” With the city’s cooperation, Fort Street has been transformed into an impressive open-air dining venue. The set up includes opento-the-sky seating as well as a tent that protects about a dozen socially distanced tables. Cocktail service will be offered at high-top tables arranged along the Fort Street sidewalk. On Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings, the Student Prince “Al Fresco” will be featuring live music starting at 6 p.m.
SEE MENU, PAGE E12
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3135607-02
• Casa Bella Italian Kitchen and Bar in Hampden has also opened its patio as the economy reopens, for outdoor dining. Seating Dunkin’, the donut-and-cofwill begin daily, except Monfee brand, has allied itself day, at 3 p.m. with Southern New HampCasa Bella is also offering a shire University, an institution Friday Night Fish Fry, a packwith a robust post-secondary age that includes whole belly online presence. Dunkin’ will clams and beer-batter haddock. Steamers are another provide a tuition discount popular end-of-week offering program in conjunction with at the restaurant. SHNU, with no minimum Family-style chicken Parnumber of work hours required for eligibility. Dunkin’ mesan has continued to be a student-employees will be popular to-go option, as has able to pursue either associthe restaurant’s version of ate or bachelor’s degrees in a chicken francaise. number of disciplines. Pre-orders for dinner takeout from Casa Bella can be Side dishes placed between 2 and 4 p.m. • The Bridgeside Grille in with pickup times available Sunderland recently expand- between 4 and 8 p.m. ed its takeout menu, adding More information on Casa new items such as fried Bella’s menu is available at the Brussels sprouts with chipotle restaurant’s website, casabel dipping sauce, ahi tuna salad, larestaurant.net. and Gorgonzola steak. The restaurant has also • Several downtown opened its patio area for Springfield restaurants were Off The Menu
quick to embrace the concept of outdoor dining, pandemic-style. Nadim’s Mediterranean Restaurant on Main Street already had a handsome brick-paved courtyard it had used for patio dining in the past, so reopening in an al fresco format was an easy transition. Service will be offered Monday through Friday for both lunch (11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.) and dinner (4:30 to 8 p.m.). On Saturdays and Sundays Nadim’s will be serving from 3 to 8 p.m. Contact the restaurant at 413-737-7373 for more details. The Student Prince Cafe and Fort Restaurant didn’t have a pre-existing out-
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N OBSERVATION expressed so often that it’s now a cliche, the realization that the restaurant industry has changed, most likely forever, is beginning to be reflected in the post-shutdown strategies major restaurant chains are pursuing. Chicago-based McDonald’s Corp., often an industry pacesetter, has already announced its intention to continue the downsized menu it adopted with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Designed to speed service, that menu limits the number of items offered and, in most markets, eliminates daylong breakfast. Based on the company’s experience during its recent dining room shutdowns, Red Robin Gourmet Burgers has announced that it, too, is sticking with a smaller menu as it reopens. Having enjoyed a dramatic growth in off-premises sales, the chain plans to permanently remove more than 50 items from its kitchen repertoire and expand its curbside and delivery options in the months ahead. In a conference call with investors, Red Robin’s CEO Paul Murphy expressed his belief that the current pandemic had “taught” customers to use delivery. Seattle-based Starbucks has also revealed plans for a strategic shift. Over the next 18 months the coffee shop giant anticipates closing 400 stores nationwide and replacing them with new store designs, including a stripped-down Starbucks Pickup layout. Starbucks Pickup stores will focus on a grab-and-go experience that eliminates the chain’s “sit and sip” ambiance. Company management describes this shift in focus as reflecting a need to increase curbside pickup and drivethru options for Starbucks customers. In a bid to make itself a more attractive place to work
WEEKEND
E10 | THURSDAY, JUNE 18, 2020
THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM
DINE & WINE
Brews you have to learn to like
If you’re talking to the winemaker, always make sure to ask this question, “Why did you decide to become a winemaker?” I never get tired of hearing their answers.
S
OME PEOPLE SAY they like every style of beer. I’m not one of those. Frankly, I’m not sure how you can truly like every style, but many claim they do. You certainly can appreciate them all, but to me that is a different concept. Either way, in my case, I’ve had to deGeorge Lenker velop appreciation for a few Beer Nut styles that I initially found either mediocre or even style whose attraction eludes downright nasty in certain me: sours. cases. One of these styles were This may be a generational certain types of beers (and thing, as when I was first the first ones I had were drinking beer the flavors Belgian brews) that had that involved in sours were simply so-called “horse blanket” off flavors. They meant the flavor, due to the brettabeer had gone bad. I realize nomyces yeast strain. I that (intentionally) sour didn’t dislike all brett beers, beers predate my early days however, just the ones that of drinking, but sour beers’ brought that barnyard flavor super-tart and sometimes too far up front. So while a even vinegary flavor profile (from lactic and acetic brew like Hill Farmstead’s acids) was a signal of a beer Juicy is pleasant enough to gone wrong, me, it took a and that little work to It’s all about was pretty acclimate my educating your hardwired taste buds to palate, and beer into my brain the funk of years ago. many others. lovers should Brett beers However, I always be willing still aren’t my have trained to do that, even if favorites, but my palate to I will always accept these it doesn’t result try a new brew flavors as in true love. if it’s recomintentional mended, no and although matter what the style. (For I mostly still do not enjoy beer novices or the otherwise them, I have had some fairly uninitiated, brettanomyces tasty sours over the years. is a wild yeast strain that can The funny thing to me is wreak havoc with a beer un- that one style that I love has less a brewer is intentionally caused similar problems for using it.) several friends: IPAs. I know And let me clear: My issue of at least three people who was with the yeast, not really didn’t like the strong taste of a “style” in this case. (Nor is hops, but who now love the my issue with Belgian beers, style. It’s all about educating many of which are delicious. your palate, and beer lovers One of my favorite all-time should always be willing to brews is Trappistes Rochedo that, even if it doesn’t fort 10, a Belgian quadrupel.) result in true love. So I was able to come to What beer style have you peace with brettanomyces changed your mind about beers, for the most part. But over the years? Let me know at there is still another actual geolenker@yahoo.com.
What questions should you ask at a wine tasting? (KEN ROSS PHOTO)
FAQ about wine – What questions do you ask at a wine tasting? the person serving you. That’s what they’re there for – to help you better understand the wine you’re drinking. Maybe it’s just me but this question about what questions to ask at a wine tasting implies that people are afraid of looking like they don’t know what OR THOSE OF US they’re talking about when who didn’t grow up with they’re talking about wine. Ken Ross the internet, I always Again, it’s OK to ask any Wine Press find it fascinating to see question about wine at a wine what other people search for tasting. And according to the Google online. Don’t let some know-it-all machine, the most frequently next to you intimidate you. Half Or, as the kids call it in their of what they’re saying is probinter chit-chats, what’s “trend- asked question about wine is, ing.” “What question do you ask at a ably something they read in a The fifth most searched term wine tasting?” magazine or online and they’re in the United States in 2015? I found this question intrigu- just trying to show off. ing for many different reasons. Flappy Bird. Forget about them and remember why you came to the First, there’s no wrong The most searched term wine tasting in the first place – question to ask at a wine tastin the United States in 2016? ing. And I mean this with all to try different wines and learn Powerball. The most searched term world- sincerity. If you have a question more about them. SEE WINE, PAGE E11 wide in 2016? Pokemon Go. about a wine, you should ask
Editor’s note: This article is part of an ongoing, occasional series about some of the most frequently asked questions about wine. If you have a question about wine, please feel free to contact the author and suggest a question for consideration.
F
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THURSDAY, JUNE 18, 2020 | E11
DINE & WINE
Wine CONTINUED FROM PAGE E10
In that case, here are a few questions I would suggest asking if you want to learn more about the wines you’re tasting. But again, please feel free to ask any question that pops into your head. Wine and wine tastings should be fun, not a chore. Different types of wine tastings But before we get to a few suggested questions, I thought it might be important to distinguish between different types of wine tastings. Because where you are – and who you’re with – could make a dramatic difference in the questions you might ask about the wine. In my experience, there are five types of wine tastings.
First, there’s no wrong question to ask at a wine tasting. And I mean this with all sincerity. If you have a question about a wine, you should ask the person serving you. That’s what they’re there for – to help you better understand the wine you’re drinking. enhance your understanding of the wine. Definitely ask the people questions, especially the winemaker. Most winemakers love talking about their wines. 4. Wine tasting hosted by a friend Feel free to ask your friend questions. But please, also remember to have fun. You’re there to enjoy the wines hopefully, not quiz your friend about their wine knowledge.
5. Professional wine tasting hosted by a wine association Imagine hundreds of 1. Wine tasting often different wines and only two hosted by a wine store or three hours to taste all of featuring a wide variety of them. Be prepared to taste wines fast, move quickly and often This is a very common ask questions later. Do the wine tasting, often hosted by math. If you only have 30 many wine stores, someseconds to taste each wine, times once a week. Hopetrust yourself and focus on fully, the person serving how the wine tastes. the wines knows something You can also find more tips about them. But that might on how to tackle a wine tastnot always be the case. If so, ing in a wine column I wrote last year about this exact trust your own instincts and subject at masslive.com/ your taste buds. entertainment/2019/04/ 2. Wine tasting often wine-press-top-10-tipshosted by a wine store for-tackling-a-wine-tast featuring one particular ing.html type of wine But that’s another topic for A slightly less common another day. Let’s get to the wine tasting, but one that can questions. be fascinating to discover the Questions to ask at subtle differences between a wine tasting different wines from the “Where is this wine same wine region. Here, the from?” people serving these wines This question might not be often know a fair bit about necessary depending on the them. Ask them questions. type of wine tasting. If you’re I’m sure they’ll love to talk at the winery, you obviously about wines they’re clearly know the origin of the wine. passionate about. But even if you know that the 3. Wine tasting at a wine is from California or winery France – or even somewhere This is a great way to learn more specific like Napa about wine, especially if the Valley or Burgundy – feel winemaker is there to talk free to dig a little deeper. Ask about their wines. You’ll also what part of Napa or Burgundy or even what vineyard get to see where the grapes are grown, which can greatly the wine’s from there. If the
person answering your questions knows a lot about wine, feel free to ask them a few more questions. “What type of soil are the grapes grown in?” Many winemakers understand the importance of soil. In fact, many believe the soil composition is what makes their wine unique. Winemakers refer to this quality of the wine by talking about “terroir.” And they’re right. It’s amazing how much different soils can make a difference in how a wine tastes. Limestone in particular is God’s gift to winemakers. But there are many other soil types. “What’s the landscape like where the grapes are grown?” Here again, geography often plays a major role in what a wine tastes like. Many grapes are grown on steep hillsides, often facing a river or another source of water. That way, the grapes often soak up some of the water at night and drain properly due to the steep terrain. Other times, the soil may be flat. Or the grapes may be grown at high altitude or near sea level. Trust me. The more wine you taste, the more you may notice these subtle differences.
to ask. You’re there to learn. Enjoy. “What should I be noticing when I’m tasting this wine?” I’m a firm believer in trusting your own instincts and not letting someone else influence your opinion of a wine. But sometimes, it’s interesting to find out what other people taste and smell when they’re drinking a wine. This is especially true if you’re talking to the winemaker. These wines are their pride and joy. Ask the winemaker questions. Let them talk. They created these wines. Discover what they love about them. “What can you tell me about this winery?” This is more of a question for a wine tasting where you’re tasting wines from several different wineries. If you’re at the actual winery, it’s also fun to learn more about the winery’s history straight from the source. When was the winery founded? What was here before there was a winery? And first and foremost, if you’re talking to the winemaker, always make sure to ask this question, “Why did you decide to become a winemaker?” I never get tired of hearing their answers.
Here again, this question is more for a wine store tasting. If you’re at a winery, you can probably already see and taste all the other wines made there. If you’re at a store and you’re enjoying the wine, write down the name of the wine and the winery. Many times, many wineries have a certain house style. And if you like one bottle you might like many of their other wines. “How was this wine aged?” Like the soil the grapes are grown in, where and how the wine is aged can make a dramatic difference in how the wine tastes. First, how long was the wine aged before it was bottled? A few months? Longer? Then, where was the wine aged? In French oak? American oak? Steel tanks? Trust me. These things matter when it comes to how a wine tastes. And if you want to know, why not ask? “Are you chewing gum?” Trust me, if you ask this question, especially to someone else tasting the wine, you may get a good laugh. It’s one of the funniest lines from “Sideways,” the best movie ever made about wine and the winos who love it.
“How much does this wine cost?” Don’t be afraid to ask the question on many people’s minds, especially if you’re at a wine store. Fortunately, you probably won’t have to ask this question since most wine tastings have the price “What types of grapes “Is this winery known for of the wine clearly written on were used to make this a piece of paper or on a sign if this wine?” wine?” you’re at a winery. And if you This question is more for Enough about geography. can afford the wine and you a wine store tasting. Here, Here’s another basic question and one you likely won’t you might be tasting several love it, my advice is buy it need to ask. This is especially different wines from several right then and there. Because true for wines from the Unit- different wineries. If you like there’s nothing worse than ed States. Most wines are asking yourself this question the wine you’re tasting but labeled based on the grape the winery is better know for a few weeks or months later, – chardonnay, pinot noir, etc. a particular wine, write down “What was I thinking?” But in many other countries Cheers! the name of that wine or ask – especially France – wines if you can taste it. You never are often organized based Wine Press by Ken Ross apknow. You might just get to pears on Masslive.com every on location. There might not taste another great wine. Monday and in The Repubeven be any indication on the lican’s weekend section every bottle what grape was used “Does this winery make Thursday. to make the wine. Feel free any other wines?”
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Menu CONTINUED FROM PAGE E9
A video tour of the Fort Street setup is available at facebook. com/TheStudentPrince/ videos/2672284446394353/. Call the restaurant at 413734-7475 for information or to make reservations.
• The MAX Restaurant Group is putting together weekend Steakhouse Dinner Packs and making them available for pickup at several MAX Restaurant Group locations, including Max Burger in Longmeadow. The steakhouse meal kits, which are designed for two, feature ready-to-grill beef filet steaks along with two “loaded” baked potatoes, creamed spinach, Cheddar pull-apart rolls, and a butter lettuce salad with Green Goddess dressing. Chocolate mousse cake is provided for dessert. Packed cold with heating instructions included, the Dinner Packs can be ordered by phone for Friday evening pickup. Contact Max Burger at 413798-0101.
• Lattitude Restaurant in West Springfield has also “gone live” once again, offering patio seating for dinner by advance booking only. Groups of four or less can make reservations online at opentable.com, while groups of five or six should contact the restaurant directly. Lattitude chef-owner Jeff Daigneau also continues to offer dinner takeout. For hours and menu details, go to the restaurant’s Facebook page, facebook.com/Lattitude • As safe, contactless Restaurant or call the restau- “curbside” and “takeout” rant at 413-248-8888. have come to be key elements of the restaurant experience, • With Father’s Day just the need for tamper-resistant around the corner, a number packaging has emerged as a of area restaurants will be business opportunity. promoting special to-go meal Delaware, Ohio-based packages around which fami- InnoPak, a company that spelies can build a celebration. cializes in food and beverage The Federal in Agawam to-go containers, has created is offering a Father’s Day Handle Cuffs, a secure-seal Barbecue package for four solution for carryout orders. that includes both barbecued Handle Cuffs are a sealing ribs and chicken as well as strip designed to work with sides such as corn on the cob, the twine-handled bags that coleslaw, potato salad, and are popular for packaging cornbread. to-go restaurant orders. The Chocolate chip cookies are Handle Cuff is a heavy-duty included for dessert. reinforced paper strip that For those opting to honor seals the bag shut and makes Dad in a more upscale manit impossible to tamper with ner, The Federal has a Lobster the contents without visibly Bake package that’s built compromising the seal. around two baked stuffed The Handle Cuffs sealing lobsters. strip includes a mailer-style Also incorporated in the pull strip that make it easy “Bake” are steamers and clam for the legitimate recipient of chowder; sides like steamed the order to access the dinner potatoes in butter, coleslaw, inside the bag. and corn on the cob are part More information on of the package as well. Handle Cuffs can be found An early summer specialty, at innopak.com/products/ strawberry shortcake, serves handle-cuffs. as dessert selection. Orders for the Father’s Day Hugh Robert is a faculty packages must be called in to member in Holyoke Community College’s hospitality and The Federal at 413-789-1267 culinary arts program and has by 5 p.m. Thursday, June 18. nearly 45 years of restaurant The boxed-up and ready-toand educational experience. finish celebrations will be Robert can be reached online at available for pickup on June OffTheMenuGuy@aol.com. 21 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
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