04-26-2012

THURSDAY APRIL 26, 2012 VOLUME 97, ISSUE 111

MUSIC ISSUE

The way we listen to music is changing, again. An evolution in digital distribution is changing how we consume the products of the industry, though the manner in which we experience it, come to rely on it, remains the same.

Listen in, Aztecs.

INDEX: NEWS

2 |

E N T E R TA I N M E N T

F E AT U R E S

14 |

4 |

CLASSIFIEDS

MUSIC ISSUE

15 |

7 |

B AC K PAG E

SPORTS

16

11

2

D A I LY

AZTEC Thursday, April 26, 2012

NEWS

Fraternity put Faux squirrel explained on suspension

Phi Kappa Theta has been put on interim suspension. | JOHN ANDERSON, ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR

Hutton Marshall news editor San Diego State fraternity Phi Kappa Theta has been put on interim suspension following the death of Sigma Alpha Epsilon president Barzeen Barzanji last Friday morning. The interim suspension will last the duration of the investigation until the Center for Student Rights and Responsibilities decides whether any disciplinary action will be taken.

According to a statement released

by SDSU’s media relations, “All university and Interfraternity Council privileges are suspended, and the chapter is expected to cease all activities, with the exception of chapter programs

approved in advance by SDSU’s office of Student Life and Leadership.”

In addition to these restrictions, all chapter-related facilities and activities must be completely alcohol and drug free, and no guests will be allowed in the chapter house unless approved in advance by the SLL office. Any violations of these rules “will result in more severe sanction.”

SDSU Media Relations Manager Gina Jacobs said while putting PKT on interim suspension does not by any means assume it is guilty of the accusations it faces, it does mean there is significant enough evidence to believe there was some violation of campus policy.

Jacobs was unable to comment on the specific charges the fraternity faces.

UC Davis scientists designed this squirrel prototype for research. | COURTESY OF RULON CLARK

Hutton Marshall news editor San Diego State biology assistant professor Rulon Clark and a group of select graduate and undergraduate students are gearing up for their annual research season: the prime summer months for observing snakes and their preferred prey, the squirrel, in their natural environment. When the team goes out this year, they’ll have another tool in their snake-observation arsenal.

Clark will take a robotic squirrel designed by faculty from University

of California, Davis into the field.

Essentially a taxidermied squirrel body with a tail mounted to wag back and forth, it is designed to replicate a behavior known as tail flagging. While the idea of having a robotic squirrel built to “fight” a snake may seem outlandish, Clark explained the straightforward design and purpose of the mechanism.

“It’s a bit frustrating because a lot of the times when stuff like this comes out … the science aspect is often a little complicated and nuanced,” Clark said. “As the person who’s involved in the work, it’s a little bit frustrating to hear ‘some

wacky scientist is working on robosquirrel.’”

The robotic squirrel will allow Clark to manipulate the simulated squirrel’s behavior to find why it engages in tail flagging and what effect this may have on a predatory snake’s willingness to strike at it.

A squirrel begins tail flagging when it senses a snake is nearby. It approaches where it believes the snake to be and begins waving its tail back and forth. Clark believes this could be the squirrel signaling to the snake that it is aware of its presence.

“If the predator knows that it’s aware of your presence, it might decide it’s better to go for a prey that’s less likely to escape,” Clark said.

According to Clark, snakes prefer to attack from the rear on unsuspecting prey. They rarely attack enemies head on and rely heavily on the element of surprise.

“Snakes are very cautious about revealing their presence,” Clark said.

“So when a squirrel tail flags at a snake, it could be to inform the snake that their presence is known.”

Because of this, snakes rarely attempt to bite a tail-flagging squirrel.

The robotic squirrel will allow Clark and his team to manipulate several conditions of the squirrel’s behavior, including body position and even the temperature of the tail to see exactly what part of the tail-flagging technique deters snake attacks.

The team will be using the robotic squirrel while tracking snakes throughout the summer months, using implanted tracking devices and strategically placed video cameras to collect data.

D A I LY A Z T E C Thursday, April 26, 2012

NEWS

Big Gay Barbeque is a hit Arturo Garcia staff writer The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender Student Union celebrated its second biannual Big Gay Barbeque with the theme “We are the 10 percent.” The LGBTSU offered free food, presented a talent show and finalized its affair with a dance.

“We’re occupying Scripps Cottage,” LGBTSU president Marina Butler said. “It’s an anti-hate, prolove type of occupying.”

The barbeques have been a tradition of LGBTSU for the past 10 years, according to sexual-acceptancebased sorority Gamma Rho Lambda member Shae Pesek. Started by San Diego State alumnus Ben Cartwright, it used to be complemented by a drag show.

“They changed it because they wanted to have more student activity in Big Gay barbeque,” Pesek said.

According to Butler, the talent shows in past years have had more participation. This semester saw three performers — a dance routine, a guitarist and a poet.

Several booths offered their resources to the event’s attendees.

San Diego Pride, Safe Zones and the queer-friendly Greek houses Gamma Rho Lambda and Delta Lambda Phi tabled in order to reach out to students.

Safe Zones at SDSU works to ensure a campus atmosphere that is welcoming, informative and safe for all lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning, queer, intersex and allies. The organization provided numerous pamphlets at the event.

“I hope people approach the booths,” University of California San Diego communications sophomore

Anderson Yu said. “I go to UCSD and we don’t have something like this so I think it’s very important to have an LGBT campus presence.”

The barbecue’s theme “We are the 10 percent” is a play on the Occupy movement and it is based on the research that claims 10 percent of people are gay or lesbian, according to Butler.

San Diego Pride took the opportunity to recruit volunteers for the upcoming local Pride Parade as well as for other LGBT-related events they will organize or participate in.

“The LGBTQIAP — all the rest of the alphabet — is so diverse. I feel like the barbeques are a really cool chance for people from different majors, races and ethnicities and religions to come together and be together for one common purpose, which is love and acceptance,” Butler said.

Finance beat writer needed Follow financial market movements? Want to get writing experience? The Daily Aztec is now accepting applications for a weekly finance beat writer. Share your expertise with San Diego State and get your writing published. Those interested should contact news editor Hutton Marshall at news@thedailyaztec.com.

T H E

DA I LY

A Z T E C .C O M

3

Love Library preps for revamp Jenna De Stefano contributor Beginning May 21, the Reference Area in San Diego State’s Love Library will be closed for renovations to add larger seating areas and more electronic reference materials, among other improvements.

“The Reference Department and the whole library is really thrilled to be taking on a project to make the library even more accessible, relaxing and productive for students,” reference librarian Brittany Cronin said One of the most anticipated renovations will be increasing and enhancing the student seating area.

The Reference Area plans to add more individual study carrels and group study spaces by relocating reference materials, such as books and the maps collection, to other sections of the library.

“The focus is to create more student study space, both individual and group study, in response to increased student demand and the library’s goal to meet student and faculty needs,” Cronin said.

The seating renovation will also include new technology-friendly furniture with integrated power sources, as well as more comfortable seating.

Part of the renovation will also focus on expanding the selection of electronic materials, some of which could be available to students before finals week. More than 150 electronic

reference books have already been purchased through the Reference Department, with hopes of accommodating what the students and faculty have requested.

“The new purchases were focused to create a more usable reference collection in a format that is highly desirable and makes ease of access a priority,” Cronin said.

“These electronic resources are focused on traditional reference titles, and include almanacs, biographies, directories, encyclopedias and other sources that contain traditional reference information.”

A few of the most requested reference books include a top-selling medical dictionary, an encyclopedia on culture wars and a historical encyclopedia of the American economy.

The library will post an update on recent purchases next week.

The renovation is using student fees and the Academic Affairs budget to cover the costs of the project.

According to Cronin, the complete cost projection for the entire renovation is unknown at this time.

The Reference Area will be closed May 21 to July 9, and reference desk materials will be relocated to the 24/7 Study Area. Students can access a reference librarian from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Monday through Friday at the 24/7 Study Area Help Desk.

“We love helping students with their projects and teaching them how to better use library resources, so please stop by the desk with your questions,” Cronin said.

4

D A I LY

AZTEC Thursday, April 26, 2012

E N T E R TA I N M E N T

A L L T H E W O R L D ’ S A S TA G E

Witch hunting and drama in ‘Vinegar Tom’ David Dixon staff writer “Vinegar Tom” is the third show in a row at San Diego State to deal with societal problems. “Squawk” addressed human conflicts while “Zanna Don’t! A Musical Fairy Tale” tackled the issue of homophobia. “Vinegar Tom,” the most serious of the three, revolves around a horrifying time when innocent citizens were accused of witchcraft.

Primarily set in Somerset, England in 1664, this ensemble play is far more unconventional than the following synopsis would suggest. Alice (Rachel Hoey) wants to be an independent woman in a time when inequality was a way of life. Her mom, Joan (Susan Jordan-DeLeon), is the hunchbacked town “nut;” a person whose oddness causes the townspeople to label her crazy. After the two find themselves in some shocking incidents with their neighbors, Jack (Jarret Addleman) and Margery (Monique Hanson), the couple begins to believe Alice and Joan might be witches.

From this description, it sounds like “Vinegar Tom” could be a classic tragedy similar to “The Crucible.”

However, Caryl Churchill’s 1976 script takes chances to make her work appeal to a new generation. What starts as an intellectually stimulating night of entertainment soon becomes a well-crafted musical drama.

There are several musical sequences throughout the production, accompanied by singers and composer / musical director / keyboardist Thomas Hodges.

These modern numbers are supposed

Despite the fact that “Vinegar Tom” is more about subject matter than character development, the acting is incredible. Hoey is excellent. to bring up problems in the 15th century while making them still relevant.

Though the songs could have been overly preachy, Hodges’ music, along with Churchill’s lyrics, are thought-provoking and at times even addicting. Hopefully Hodges will release a CD with the tunes; yes, they are that powerful.

Another notable aspect of Churchill’s writing is the use of speeches in the second act. A particular example of this is a soliloquy from Goody (Megan McGrory) an assistant to a witch hunter, Packer (Shane Allen).

Through this spooky dialogue, the audience enters the gruesome mind of a woman in the disturbing profession, and at the same time, gives viewers an idea as to why some decided to pursue witch hunting as a career.

Despite the fact that “Vinegar Tom” is more about subject matter than character development, the acting is incredible. Hoey is excellent in depicting a young adult trying to be different than the typical female from the time period.

The two invaluable actresses who practically steal “Vinegar Tom” and refuse to turn it in to the authorities are DeLeon and Sunny Smith. With her committed physical movement along

with her dark comedic timing, DeLeon works wonders as an unfortunate outcast. Smith, who also delivered a memorable performance in “Doubt: A Parable” last semester, plays a practitioner of the healing arts, who may or may not be a witch. Smith is empathetic, especially in her moving moments with Betty (Emily Zobel), a girl she starts a friendship with.

Smith and DeLeon stand out so much partly because of what they are able to accomplish during some of the final scenes of “Vinegar Tom.” Without spoiling anything, it is safe to say the performers take part in a sudden transition from sad tragedy to biting satire, which ultimately allows them to show off their amazing versatility. It is also when Churchill takes her most dangerous risk, and with Peter Larlham’s assured direction, it pays off.

While some might be initially put off by its offbeat approach to storytelling, “Vinegar Tom” turns out to be a wonderful way to end the season of plays and musicals. Just remember to bring an open mind when entering the Experimental Theatre.

Tickets and information about “Vinegar Tom” can be found at theatre.sdsu.edu.

Acting out of the norm is potentially fatal in “Vinegar Tom.” | COURTESY OF ZWINK PHOTOGRAPHY

BEHIND THE NUMBERS

SPONSORED BY

WITCH HUNTS AND WITCHCRAFT 1682

Advanced Test Preparation

Year of the last witchcraft-related execution in England

$140.5 Total domestic gross for “The Blair Witch Project,” in millions $60

Budget for filming “The Blair Witch Project,” in thousands

80

Estimated amount of people killed during Reformation witch hunts, in thousands

80

Estimated number of executed witches who were women, in percentage

185

Number of people accused of witchcraft at Salem

19

Number of people executed during the Salem witch hunt

14

Number of women killed during the Salem witch trials

Advanced Test Preparation

Score Higher, Aztecs!

D A I LY A Z T E C Thursday, April 26, 2012

E N T E R TA I N M E N T

5

SNEAK PEEK

Active Child to space out UCSD’s The Loft Courtney Rogin staff writer

Pat Grossi’s chorale experience adds a unique flair to his music. | COURTESY OF RICKY CHAPMAN

Everyone had physical after-school activities as a youngster, which could have included dance class, gymnastics, Boy Scouts or a bevy of sports. This was not the case for Active Child frontman Pat Grossi, who spent his time as part of the Philadelphia Boys’ Choir and Chorale as a child, honing his transcendental voice. Grossi brings this unique experience to his intergalactic style of music, live and in studio.

Active Child’s debut album, “You Are All I See,” was released in November last year, and is a quintessential album in the galactic-indie genre. His musicianship is vast and grand, employing the use of classical instruments, such

R E L E A S I N G F R I DAY

SNEAK PEEK

“The Raven” Relativity Media John Cusack must stop a vicious serial killer who is using Edgar Allen Poe’s work as inspiration for his bloody deeds. Set in the 19th century, Poe is on hand to assist Cusack’s character with apprehending the killer.

as the harp, and also laptop-based ‘80s electronic sounds. He also incorporates his extensive choir voice that has brilliant range, dancing between alto and soprano with ease. The result is something almost intangible because of the complexity of emotions contained within each song: scathingly intimate and notably abandoned in the same moment.

The album opens with the title track, sounding as if the first light of day is peaking over the eastern mountain horizon and not shying away from the use of the harp. It leads into one of the star tracks, “Hanging On,” which is emotionally tense from beginning to end. Grossi’s vocals put the listener in a contemplative, meditative state, letting his voice explore the higher reaches of his range.

Creatively, the entire album blends

T-Pain to play GreenFest Samantha Hirsch staff writer

COURTESY OF LARRY HORRICKS

“The Pirates! Band of Misfits” Sony Pictures A pirate captain competing for the illustrious Pirate of the Year award must defeat his rivals to claim victory.

Clay animation makes this family friendly flick worth a special look.

MCT CAMPUS

“Safe” Lionsgate Jason Statham comes to the rescue of a girl named Mei who is pursued by a Russian mob called the Triads. Corrupt cops complicate matters significantly, leaving Statham no choice but to kick ass.

MCT CAMPUS

“The Five-Year Universal

together, yet each song portrays itself as the result of some exploratory mission into the endless universe.

“High Priestess” blurs the line between organic and electronic sounds, something to aspire to for other musicians of this genre. It’s this sense of incorporating fundamentally simple sounds with the sounds of the electronic cosmos that makes Active Child a hauntingly fascinating artist, lingering long after the strum of the harp.

Active Child’s live shows have garnered rave reviews and San Diego will have the chance to dance to the nearest star cluster with Grossi and his band tonight. Active Child plays at 8 p.m. tonight at the Loft at UC San Diego. Tickets are available for $16 through the UCSD box office and all ages are welcome.

Engagement”

As the title of this comedy suggests, Jason Segel and Emily Blunt have been trying to get married for five years, but they keep running into roadblocks along the way.

MCT CAMPUS

—Compiled by Entertainment Editor John Anderson COURTESY OF RCA MUSIC GROUP

This Saturday, Associated Students will host the fourth annual GreenFest Festival, which serves to “encourage, advocate for and celebrate sustainability (and) Aztec Pride.” Billed on the main stage are popular acts such as electronic musician Max Vangeli, house music duo EC Twins and San Diego-based disc jockey and producer Jason Ross.

Taking the Shade Stage are four types of musicians: hip-hop artist Carl David Sharpe (Sincere), DJ Keevo, rapper 3D and house / electro duo Win.Rawr.

Performing on the Solar Stage are Hawaiian reggae band Hi Roots, alternative / progressive rock band Zone of the Interior, K.O. Hip-Hop Dance Team, rock band The Morning After SDSU’s Pacific Islander Student Association.

However, the main headliner, southern rapper T-Pain, is who students are most excited about. With hits such as “Buy U a Drank” and “I’m ‘n Luv (Wit a

Stripper),” students are looking forward to a night of entertainment and fun music. Some students are anticipating Saturday night for nostalgic reasons. “(He) reminds me of high school when his music was really popular,” English and math junior Laura Palossari said. She thought he was a good choice because attending his concert will be “a throwback to my teenage years.”

However, some people aren’t as “sprung” to see T-Pain perform.

Political science junior Aaron Turcios said he doesn’t get it.

“Nobody listens to him anymore …

He was big when we were in high school, what new stuff is he going to perform now? And isn’t auto tune dead?” Turcios said.

T-Pain fan or not, this event’s goal is “to continue raising awareness” by hosting “sustainable, social, cultural, recreational and educational events,” so no one can deny the importance of an occasion like this. Tickets are available at Viejas Arena Ticket Office for $10 per student and $25 per guest. For more information visit as.sdsu.edu/greenfest.

D A I LY A Z T E C Thursday April 26, 2012

MUSIC ISSUE

A LOOK AT STREAMING Consumers have left CDs in the dust and are now turning away from digital music files as well. Streaming is quickly becoming the king of music delivery mediums. Here’s a look at several of the most popular streaming services.

SPOTIFY

PANDORA

SOUNDCLOUD

Courtney Rogin

Brooke Schyler

Samantha Hirsch

staff writer

staff writer

staff writer

Spotify allows users to search for their favorite artists and stream a wide range of music instantly. The service integrates with Facebook to make sharing playlists and new music a breeze. Spotify is free with ad support, though users can upgrade to an ad-free paid service with enhanced features.

Pandora is an online music player that allows users to create personalized radio stations. The Music Genome Project categorizes songs based upon musical qualities such as harmony, melody and vocals.

Pandora members can then use the Genome to generate as many as 100 stations and personalize each by liking or disliking songs. The best part is Pandora is free and available on almost any media player. For music listeners who want to enjoy ad-free stations, the subscription cost for computers is $36 per year and $3.99 per month for phones and tablets.

SoundCloud is a music sharing service that doubles as a social networking website. This site allows users to upload, record or share music, providing members with their own URL so they can embed the music they upload to other websites. SoundCloud works with Facebook and Twitter, so users can access their audiences more easily and broaden their fanbase at the same time.

SoundCloud issues its music via applications and widgets.

Members can put songs on their website and SoundCloud will automatically Tweet when new songs or sets are uploaded.

SoundCloud, which is based in Europe, presents free limited access to users. Paid versions offer more features, starting at 29 Euros per month (around $38).

The paid version is geared toward artists, offering expanded stats, more upload and sharing capacity, and the ability to create sets.

The evolution of the industry Austin Mahn shares his thoughts on the future of music Isabella Place staff writer

THE PROS

1 2 3 4

Wirelessly streams more than 13 million songs Syncs with home music library Paid version allows Spotify tracks to play in offline mode Paid version allows streaming through mobile devices

THE CONS

1

Advertising (or the biggest annoyance ever, though with paid version, there are no ads)

2

Decreased sound quality with free version

3

Music library is limited and missing classic artists such as Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, The Beatles and some recent popular songs

THE PROS

1 2 3 4

Access to Pandora on many media players Free Features 80,000 artists Provides lyrics or link to buy songs

THE CONS

1 2 3 4

Only available in the United States An ad-free subscription costs $36 Limited skip capability of 12 songs per 24 hours Only 800,000 tracks

THE PROS

1

Can upload and share user-created musicon multiple platforms

2 3

Can imbed songs in other websites and blogs

4

One-click sharing through social media services

Minimal buffering; music plays very quickly and smoothly

THE CONS

LAST.FM

8TRACKS

Connor Cox

John Anderson

staff writer

entertainment editor

Last.fm allows users to link with their music players to “scrobble,” or record, their listening history.

The service provides members with a report of their listening habits and recommends new bands. Last.FM radio allows users to create stations centered around bands, genres or songs.

Streaming music website 8tracks fancies itself a disc jockey’s paradise, and it may have a point.

With unlimited ability to upload and share playlists and mixes with a very active and social community for free, what’s not to like? The service functions similar to Twitter. Users can follow their favorite members, give feedback through comments and share particularly interesting lists through other social media outlets.

THE PROS

1 2 3 4

Free

Has a wide selection of artists

Users can share artists with other users Links with Facebook and other social media networks

THE CONS

1

Artist recommendations are not always helpful

2 3 4

Cannot search by song, only by artist Cannot create playlists

Can be difficult to use at times

THE PROS

1 2 3 4

Free with a potentially limitless amount of tracks Apps for iPhone, iPod touch and Android Themed playlists, searchable by individual DJs, artists or genre tags Social media integration

THE CONS

1 2 3 4

Cannot search by individual tracks Cannot view tracks on a playlist prior to play through Cannot resume playlists if window is closed Spotty performance on slower-running machines

1

Unable to make playlists without signing up for an account

2

Uploaded music capped at 120 minutes and 100 downloads for free version

3

Tiered paid versions get expensive quickly

7

A few issues ago, The Daily Aztec published a review of the musical showcase of local bands at the House of Blues.

One of the bands that truly left a good impression on the audience was Just Like Jenna. The Daily Aztec recently had the opportunity to sit down for an interview with frontman Austin Mahn, a 27-year-old San Diego native, to ask his opinion about the music scene in town.

The Daily Aztec: What do you think is the single biggest change made in the music industry in the last few years?

Austin Mahn: Here, locally, a lot of collectives started. Music is getting tighter and more musicians are going to more shows to check out other bands. If you play local music you have to go support the local scene.

We all network together and get recognition for supporting other artists, because at the end of the day, the music itself is the important part.

DA: What do you think about the changes the Internet (i.e. illegal downloading, online radio, etc.) has brought to the music scene and what do you think will happen in the future?

AM: We are so about piracy.

Your art needs to get put out there regardless. Personally, the

more people that listen to my music, the more people get to experience what I’m trying to do. We don’t even sell our CDs, we actually just give them out.

In my opinion, music should be free; your live performance is what draws people in and keeps them coming.

DA: What do you think about the San Diego music scene and its future?

AM: It’s all about the live show; no matter how small the venue, you have to give the audience their cover charge’s worth. If San Diego is going to be known for something, it’s having bands that play many different styles, but also having bands that put on the best shows anywhere in Southern California or even anywhere in the country.

DA: What do you predict to be the next “big thing” in music?

AM: Focusing on the local scene, the pop-punk explosion in the 2000s was a starting point for many current bands, but now they are reinventing themselves. In our band, we actually get to ride that old classic sound of actual rock music. We record in a very organic fashion and perhaps other bands will turn to that pretty soon. Too many bands have a MacBook sitting on stage nowadays. That’s just glamorized karaoke. Bands are starting to realize it’s not so much about incorporating prerecorded music, but more about the natural sound of the live show and the spontaneity of the moment.

We are so about piracy ...

Personally, the more people that listen to my music, the more people get to experience what I’m trying to do.

8

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AZTEC Thursday, April 26, 2012

MUSIC ISSUE

HOW TO PICK LOCAL SD MUSIC Brilliant local San Diego musical talent is coming out of the woodwork. With so many bands to choose from, where does an aspiring San Diego music enthusiast begin? We’ve constructed this handy flowchart to give you a starting point. Look for spotlights about the bands marked with asterisks on page 9.

START HERE S

WANT TO GO UNDERGROUND? ERGRO ?

YES

NO

DID YOU LIKE HIGH SCHOOL?

HOW DO YOU FEEL ABOUT CUFFED PANTS?

MEH

NO ARE YOU HAPPY OR SAD?

YES

LOVE ’EM

BLINK 182

DOES THE BASSIST COUNT?

HAPPY

SAD

JASON MRAZ

UNWRITTEN LAW

NO COCONUTS?

YES

DO YOU KNOW WHERE TOWER BAR IS?

PINBACK

YES

NO

DIRTY GOLD, WAVVES

LOW VOLTS

YES

NO

LADY DOTTIE & THE DIAMONDS

GRAND TRANTULA

YUCK

EVER BEEN TO TIJUANA?

SUPERFICIALLY

NO DO YOU ENJOY FINE WINE?

YES TODO MUNDO

UPPER CRUST

LOWER CRUST YES THE SILENT COMEDY, LITTLE HURICANE

SOFT PACK, TRANSFER

NO WHAT DO YOU BUY AT THE BLACK?

JESSE LAMONACA & THE DIME NOVELS

NEVER BEEN DO YOU LKE THE FILM “CRY BABY”?

FOR INCENSE

FOR HOOKAH

ROB DEEZ, JOSH DAMIGO, VOKAB KOMPANY

STRANGER, TRIBE OF KINGS

NO HOW ABOUT GUY LINER?

YES BLACK HONDO, THE CREEPY CREEPS

NO WHICH DO YOU PREFER?

YES PIERCE THE VEIL

“AMERICAN GIRL” TOM PETTY AND THE HEARTBREAKERS

“NEXT GIRLS” THE BLACK KEYS

REPUBLIC OF LETTERS, THE HEAVY GUILT

FAMILY WAGON, DEAD FEATHER MOON

D A I LY A Z T E C Thursday, April 26, 2012

MUSIC ISSUE

9

Playing like a Hurricane Lowman builds blues charge Brooke Schyler staff writer

Sounds like: Civil Wars, Dead Weather, The Kills Local San Diego band Little Hurricane might be fairly new to the music scene but it’s taking it by storm. The dirty blues-rock band, which likes to describe its sound as similar to the Black Keys, met via Craigslist in 2010. Drummer Celesta “CC” Spina placed an ad looking for another musician to play with when frontman and guitarist Anthony “Tone” Catalano responded. The two formed Little Hurricane after learning they both had a love for jazz.

Since first meeting, the boy-girl duo has been quite a busy pair.

Little Hurricane was the first band to record a SoundDiego session, it won Best New Artist at the 2010 San Diego Music Awards and went on a four-month national tour after releasing its debut album Homewrecker in March last year. Homewrecker features 12 tracks such as the song “Give em Hell” where the two hauntingly echo separate verses until CC breaks into her drums and Tone rocks on the guitar for the repeated chorus, which is almost sure to get stuck in the listener’s head. Little Hurricane’s newest project is releasing its debut album on vinyl, which will be available on May 1.

Little Hurricane recently went on tour again, but this time spread its music to large crowds

LITTLE HURRICANE

COURTESY OF PARADIGM TALENT AGENCY

Since first meeting, the boy-girl duo has been quite a busy pair ... it won Best New Artist at the 2010 San Diego Music Awards. at music festivals such as Lollapalooza and opening for M. Ward and the Shins at South By Southwest in Austin, Texas.

Opening at SXSW is a huge change from a year ago when the band played at small venues

throughout the city, but was subsequently picked up by indie label Roadrunner Records after handing out CDs. Little Hurricane will end its tour in San Diego where music lovers can hear them live at the Casbah this Saturday.

Jesse croons Americana LOW VOLTS

COURTESY OF IAN KASNOFF

Courtney Rogin staff writer Sounds like: Black Keys, Deer Tick and Robert Johnson

JESSE LAMONACA & THE DIME NOVELS

COURTESY OF DREW REYNOLDS

John Anderson entertainment editor Sounds like: Fleet Foxes and Bonnie “Prince” Billy Having recently released their second record, it’s easy to tell the members of Jesse LaMonaca and the Dime Novels are going to have long, happy careers. Anything but the superficial, shallowly composed quality the name suggests,

Jesse and company represent a polished side of the San Diego music scene.

The six-piece Americana band with hints of big-band and a folky twang features deep lyrics, great vocal work and a diverse, complex range of instrumentals. The group plays the gambit, everything from punchy blues to smooth, relaxing music, perfect for date nights or a late summer day.

“The Lament of Tumbleweed Hawk,” Jesse and the gang’s latest record, is a beautiful mix of styles,

with something to fit any situation.

The album shares its name with its best track. “The Lament of Tumbleweed Hawk” is a soft, sorrowful, understated work of guitar and vocals. Although it doesn’t represent the band’s style as a whole, it shows what kind of sounds the band is capable of.

Jesse LaMonaca and the Dime Novels are scheduled to play Stage 3 (at India Street and Date Street) from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. this Sunday at the Mission Federal Artwalk in Little Italy.

Some may say one is the loneliest number, but that is certainly not the case for the one-man musical machine Low Volts. The man behind the act is Tim Lowman.

Alongside his friends, a drum kick and Silvertone guitar, Lowman creates a shockingly satisfying kick in the pants. He is the modern version of what James Dean would be as a dirty blues musician.

Lowman released his debut album “Twist Shake Grind Break” last year to wide local acclaim, earning him San Diego Music Awards for Best New Artist and Best Blues Album.

All The Black Keys addicts out there will be instant fans of his songs, which embody the same dark and dusty corner of blues. “I Cried My Guts Out” starts with a simple, repetitive guitar riff sloshing

around with angry lyrics, making for a perfect bluesy cocktail. Another track of the debut record “Huntin’ Feedin’ Drinkin’” is a road trip to hell and back during a lightning storm at night. “I’m just a bat in a cave, I’m trying my best to behave” are the opening lyrics, setting the tone for the song’s blackened soul.

The album’s title track, “Twist Shake Grind Break,” will shake l i s te n e r s to the c o r e while making them wonder where all the noise is coming from.

It lets the uniqueness of being a one-man band take its own persona and musical genre.

Low Volts is not for the faint of heart; One Direction fans need not apply. It is in-your-face, on the table, blues-rock witchcraft, spellbinding the local music scene. Get wicked with the one-man band with a free show starting at 9 p.m. tomorrow night at the Riviera Supper Club and Turquoise in La Mesa.

All The Black Keys addicts out there will be instant fans of his songs, which embody the same dark dusty corner of blues.

10

D A I LY

AZTEC

MUSIC ISSUE

Thursday, April 26, 2012

THE MODERN MIXTAPE Having the right music to fit a given mood or situation is important, but sometimes there is no time to sit down and make a playlist. These playlists will provide a leg up. Follow the links to Spotify or Grooveshark and listen in.

TUNE INTO THE WINDING ROAD

COACHELLA 2012: THE VICARIOUS MIX

Samantha Hirsch

Connor Cox

staff writer

staff writer

Born to Be Wild Steppenwolf

Up the Country 6 Going Canned Heat

2

I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles) The Proclaimers

7 California Phantom Planet

2

Simple Song The Shins

3

Freebird Lynyrd Skynyrd

Is a Highway 8 Life Tom Cochrane

3

Still Life The Horrors

4

On the Road Again Willie Nelson

9 Wannabe Spice Girls

4

Common People Pulp

5

Low Rider War

Ride 10 Slow Foghat

5

The Bay Metronomy

1

Listen to “Tune Into The Winding Road” via Spotify at spoti.fi/IhUhxD

1

Intro M83

Flower 6 Lotus Radiohead Predict a Riot 7 IKaiser Chiefs of Balloons 8 House The Weeknd

9 Cruel St. Vincent

MAD ABOUT “MAD MEN”

Burned 10 Get Sleeper Agent

Isabella Place staff writer

1 2 3 4 5

Suzanne Farrell Low Grade Happiness Rufus Wainwright

Betty Draper I Love You (But You’re Boring) The Beautiful South

6

Midge Daniels My Lady Héroïne Serge Gainsbourg

7 Allison Bloody Mother F****** Asshole

Rachel Menken Crazy to Love You Leonard Cohen

Miller 8 Faye Bite Me

Bobbie Barrett Bang On Propellerheads

Calvet 9 Megan This is Hardcore

Joyce Chick Habit April March

Martha Wainwright

Snakeskin

Pulp Draper 10 Anna Without You I’m Nothing Placebo featuring David Bowie

Listen to “Mad About ‘Mad Men’” via Grooveshark at tinysong.com/p/4ILQ0

Listen to “Coachella 2012: The Vicarious Mix” via Grooveshark at tinysong.com/p/4IEdK

D A I LY A Z T E C Thursday, April 26, 2012

MUSIC ISSUE

11

HOUSTON, WE HAVE MUSIC

SIN CITY SOUNDS Brooke Schyler

Courtney Rogin

staff writer

staff writer

1

Viva Las Vegas Elvis Presley

1

As The Rush Comes Gabriel & Dresden Chillout Mix Motorcycle

On 6 Hanging Active Child

2

Luck Be a Lady Frank Sinatra

2

Between Two Points The Glitch Mob featuring Swan

7 Daydream Youth Lagoon

3

Waking Up In Vegas Katy Perry

3

Challenger Kisses

Own Strange Path 8 My M83

4

Right Round Flo Rida

4

Aurora Fred Falke

Suburbs (Arcade Fire Cover) 9 The Mr Little Jeans

5

Rack City Tyga

5

Inch Of Dust Future Islands

10 Breathe Telepopmusik

R Who We R 6 We Ke$ha

Listen to Houston, We Have Music via Spotify at spoti.fi/I7H6fk

Money 7 Get The Notorious B.I.G. City 8 Sin AC/DC (Drink to That) 9 Cheers Rihanna

A YEAR OF SILVER SCREEN MELODIES

Me On 10 Turn David Guetta

David Dixon staff writer

Listen to Sin City Sounds via Grooveshark at tinysong.com/p/4IEfH

1 2

Man or Muppet Jason Segel The Muppets

3

Lily (Con Estrella Morente) Chico & Rita New York Band & Orchestra Chico & Rita

4

Abraham’s Daughter Arcade Fire The Hunger Games

5

Marcy’s Song John Hawkes Martha Marcy May Marlene

EAST OF THE TOP 40

1

Aïcha Cheb Khaled

2

Dudu Tarkan

3

Beni Beni Niyaz

4

Ya Rayah Rachid Taha

5

Why This Kolaveri Di Dhanush

Kamilah Albahri assistant art director Listen to “East of the Top 40” via Grooveshark at tinysong.com/p/4IL9I

Bled 6 Mon Mohammed Lamine featuring Rohff and Cheb Maria W Noss 7 Ah Nancy Airam Ya Nour el Ain 8 Habibi Amr Diab

9

Sidi Mansour Saber El Robaey

Narain 10 Nari Hisham Abbas

A Real Hero College featuring Electric Youth Drive

Skies 6 Hawaiian Jeff Peterson The Descendants Theme (Vocal Version) 7 Hanna’s Chemical Brothers Hanna Living Proof 8 The Mary J. Blige The Help Stories 9 Gathering Jónsi We Bought a Zoo Volant 10 Coeur Howard Shore featuring ZAZ Hugo Listen to “A Year of Silver Screen Melodies” via Grooveshark at tinysong.com/p/4IEcY

12

D A I LY

AZTEC Thursday, April 26, 2012

SPORTS

FOOTBALL

Lindley, Burris and Hillman prepare for NFL Most scouts project Lindley to go in the fourth round, as high as the third round and no later than the fifth or sixth round.

Lindley leaves SDSU as the all-time leader in passing yards, touchdowns, completions and QB starts. | PETER KLUCH, SENIOR STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Three Aztecs are projected to be drafted this weekend Ryan Schuler staff writer High school to college. Boyhood to manhood. College football to the National Football League. There is a natural progression to becoming a professional athlete, as there is a natural progression in life.

It was at this time last year San Diego State said goodbye to two AllMountain West wide receivers as they moved on to the NFL: Vincent Brown to the San Diego Chargers and DeMarco Sampson to the Arizona Cardinals. This year, three more Aztecs hope to move to the next level.

After successful careers at SDSU, former quarterback Ryan Lindley, running back Ronnie Hillman and linebacker Miles Burris are all projected to be drafted in this week’s NFL draft.

Lindley, the local product from Alpine threw, for 3,153 yards and 23 touchdowns against only eight inter-

ceptions this past season, despite throwing to a very young group of wide receivers.

Lindley leaves Montezuma Mesa as the all-time career leader in passing yards (12,690), touchdowns (90), total offense (12,415), completions (961) and quarterback starts (49), after starting for four years.

NFL scouts like his size and arm strength, but are concerned with his lack of athleticism and accuracy, as he only completed 53 percent of his passes this past season.

Most scouts project Lindley to go in the fourth round, as high as the

third round and no later than the fifth or sixth round.

Hillman is also projected to go in the fourth round, according to scouts.

The two-time All-American wasted no time impressing Aztec fans when he burst on the scene in 2010.

He rushed for 1,532 yards and 17 touchdowns as a freshman, breaking Marshall Faulk’s freshman record for most rushing yards in a season, and 1,711 yards and 19 touchdowns this past season.

This two-season sensation is eligible for the draft because he is three years removed from high school.

While he does have the quickness and elusiveness to break away from tacklers in the open field, many doubt he will be able to run in between the tackles like he did in college. His blocking, fumble issues and tendency to dance around the line of scrimmage are also reasons for concern. Yet, many scouts believe he has a lot of upside.

Defensive players tend to be harder to grade because their stats don’t tell the whole story. Scouts look at versatility and energy when it comes to draft time.

Burris has both.

The two-time All-Mountain West pick has been labeled a “high-motor guy” with a competitiveness and ability to play both 3-4 outside linebacker and strong side linebacker.

Burris, who finished the season with a team-leading 78 tackles, 19.5 tackles for a loss and eight sacks, is projected to be selected anywhere in the fifth or sixth round.

Scouts love his balance, body control and “no quit” attitude, but struggle to nail him down to a specific position in the NFL.

AT A GLANCE WHAT: NFL Draft WHEN: Tonight at 5 p.m., tomorrow at 4 p.m. and Saturday at 9 a.m.

WHY TO WATCH: Three former Aztecs are projected to be selected by NFL teams this weekend.

Follow me @ Ryan_Schuler

D A I LY A Z T E C Thursday, April 26, 2012

SPORTS

13

FOOTBALL

Luck, Griffin III headline draft projections Antonio Morales sports editor

Carolina Panthers

Cincinnati Bengals

Denver Broncos

AM: Fletcher Cox, DT, Mississippi State RS: Fletcher Cox, DT, Mississippi State HH: Fletcher Cox, DT, Mississippi State

AM: Stephon Gilmore, CB, South Carolina RS: Stephen Hill, WR, Georgia Tech HH: Dre Kirkpatrick, CB, Alabama

AM: Michael Brockers, DT, LSU RS: Jerel Worthy, DT, Michigan State HH: Kendall Wright, WR, Baylor

Buffalo Bills

Ryan Schuler & Hunter Hewitt staff writers There isn’t much suspense at the top of the draft, with the Indianapolis Colts announcing they’ll be selecting Stanford quarterback Andrew Luck with the top pick in tonight’s NFL Draft, but The Daily Aztec’s sports editor Antonio Morales, and staff writers Ryan Schuler and Hunter Hewitt are giving their takes on which players they think are going where.

Antonio Morales: Andrew Luck, QB, Stanford Ryan Schuler: Andrew Luck, QB, Stanford Hunter Hewitt: Andrew Luck QB, Stanford

Washington Redskins AM: Robert Griffin III, QB, Baylor RS: Robert Griffin III, QB, Baylor HH: Robert Griffin III, QB, Baylor

Minnesota Vikings

San Diego Chargers AM: Nick Perry, DE, USC RS: Courtney Upshaw, OLB, Alabama HH: Cordy Glenn, OG/OT, Georgia

AM: Kendall Wright, WR, Baylor RS: Johnathan Martin, OT, Stanford HH: Luke Kuechly, ILB, Boston College

Kansas City Chiefs

Chicago Bears

New England Patriots

AM: Luke Kuechly, ILB, Boston College RS: David DeCastro, OG, Stanford HH: David DeCastro, OG, Stanford

AM: Cordy Glenn, OT, Georgia RS: Quinton Coples, DE, North Carolina HH: Michael Brockers, DT, LSU

AM: Shea McCLellin, OLB, Boise State RS: Michael Brockers, DT, LSU HH: Shea McCLellin, OLB, Boise State

Seattle Seahawks MCT CAMPUS

Tampa Bay Buccaneers Indianapolis Colts

Houston Texans

AM: Riley Reiff, OT, Iowa RS: Michael Floyd, WR, Notre Dame HH: Stephon Gilmore, CB, South Carolina

AM: Morris Claiborne, CB, LSU RS: Morris Claiborne, CB, LSU HH: Morris Claiborne, CB, LSU

St. Louis Rams AM: Justin Blackmon, WR, Oklahoma State RS: Justin Blackmon, WR, Oklahoma State HH: Justin Blackmon, WR, Oklahoma State

Jacksonville Jaguars

AM: Matt Kalil, OT, USC RS: Matt Kalil, OT, USC HH: Matt Kalil, OT, USC

AM: Michael Floyd, WR, Notre Dame RS: Melvin Ingram, DE, South Carolina HH: Michael Floyd, WR, Notre Dame

Cleveland Browns

Miami Dolphins

AM: Trent Richardson, RB, Alabama RS: Trent Richardson, RB, Alabama HH: Trent Richardson, RB, Alabama

AM: Ryan Tannehill, QB, Texas A&M RS: Ryan Tannehill, QB, Texas A&M HH: Ryan Tannehill, QB, Texas A&M

AM: Quinton Coples, DE, North Carolina RS: Luke Kuechly, ILB, Boston College HH: Melvin Ingram, DE, South Carolina

Tennessee Titans AM: Whitney Mercilus, DE, Illinois RS: Stephon Gilmore, CB, South Carolina HH: Dontari Poe, DT, Memphis

Green Bay Packers

Arizona Cardinals

Cincinnati Bengals

Baltimore Ravens

AM: David DeCastro, OG, Stanford RS: Riley Reiff, OT, Iowa HH: Riley Reiff, OT, Iowa

AM: Courtney Upshaw, OLB, Alabama RS: Dre Kirkpatrick, CB, Alabama HH: Whitney Mercilus, DE, Illinois

AM: Peter Konz, C, Wisconsin RS: Peter Konz, C, Wisconsin HH: Mike Adams, OT, Ohio State

Dallas Cowboys AM: Mark Barron, S, Alabama RS: Mark Barron, S, Alabama HH: Mark Barron, S, Alabama

Philadelphia Eagles AM: Chandler Jones, DE, Syracuse RS: Dontari Poe, DT, Memphis HH: Courtney Upshaw, OLB, Alabama

New York Jets AM: Melvin Ingram, DE, South Carolina RS: Whitney Mercilus, DE, Illinois HH: Quinton Coples, DE, North Carolina

Cleveland Browns AM: Stephen Hill, WR, Georgia Tech RS: Kendall Wright, WR, Baylor HH: Stephen Hill, WR, Georgia Tech

Detroit Lions

AM: Harrison Smith, S, Notre Dame RS: Shea McClellin, OLB, Boise State HH: Harrison Smith, S, Notre Dame

San Francisco 49ers AM: Amini Silatolu, G, Midwestern State RS: Coby Fleener, TE, Stanford HH: Coby Fleener, TE, Stanford

New England Patriots

AM: Mike Adams, OT, Ohio State RS: Mike Adams, OT, Ohio State HH: Johnathan Martin, OT, Stanford

AM: Janoris Jenkins, CB, North Alabama RS: Nick Perry, DE, USC HH: Andre Branch, DE, Clemson

Pittsburgh Steelers

New York Giants

AM: Dontari Poe, DT, Memphis RS: Dont’a Hightower, ILB, Alabama HH: Dont’a Hightower, ILB, Alabama

AM: Dont’a Hightower, ILB, Alabama RS: Harrison Smith, S, Notre Dame HH: Doug Martin, RB, Notre Dame

Stanford QB Andrew Luck will be selected first overall by the Indianapolis Colts in tonight’s draft. | MCT CAMPUS

14

D A I LY

AZTEC Thursday, April 26, 2012

T R AV E L & A D V E N T U R E

Locale decisions vex study abroad hopefuls

T

he idea of studying abroad often sounds fantastic at first, but the nuts and bolts of moving from point-home to point-adventure can complicate the process. The first technical hurdle any student can face is selecting a study abroad program.

This is not only a prospective traveler’s first barrier, but it’s also often a difficult and time-consuming process. Here are a few questions pertaining to the study abroad experience students should explore before selecting a program:

There is a possibility that the credits you earn abroad will not transfer or meet degree requirements. So, if your goal is to graduate in four years, you will have to consider how much time (and how many units) you could afford to lose while abroad.

Also, don’t forget to keep in mind how long your funds will support you abroad, as many countries require a special visa to work and you may have to rely on savings.

How much money am I (or my generous, loving parents) willing to spend?

What is my goal?

No matter what program is selected, you’re almost guaranteed to gather new skills and life experiences.

However, it’s helpful to choose a few top priorities to find the best program for you. Whether it’s language-learning, immersion in a specific culture, gaining work experience or aiding a community by volunteering, find the program that will guide you there.

What area do I want to go to?

Once a goal is in mind, the next step is to narrow it down by region. If your goal is to learn Spanish, you have a rather large chunk of the globe at your disposal. However, if you want to learn Norwegian, geographical options shrink substantially. Keep in mind, if you still have nightmarish flashbacks of conjugating verbs in high school while ordering a carne asada burrito at Trujillo’s, you may want to consider English-friendly countries first.

How far outside of my comfort zone am I willing to go?

While I’m all for wanting to spend

For many students with dreams to study abroad, choosing a location can often be the most difficult choice. | ALLIE DAUGHERTY, EDITOR IN CHIEF

Ashley Williams contributor a semester in southwestern Africa learning Khoisan, there comes a point when we must be realistic in the feasibility of our endeavors.

One semester won’t be long enough to pick up a click language, unless you’re some sort of linguistic prodigy.

Safety should also be considered when choosing a location, as it can be largely influenced by your actions in respect to the region you choose. You can manage external factors by choosing destinations that minimize risk. However, if you choose to visit areas known to be more dangerous, extra preparation such as learning the native tongue and researching the cultural ins and outs of the region is necessary.

How long do I want to stay?

You may wish you lived a life free from financial woes where you would have as much time to graduate from college as you desired (unless you’re a rare breed of student who doesn’t have to wish).

However, in real life, you probably have work and financial obligations, and would like to graduate in less than a decade. If this is the case, you have a few extra factors to consider.

The much-dreaded but entirely necessary money talk is something you must have, whether you’re seeking loans from Bank of America or Bank of Mom and Dad. Before selecting a program, you will need to determine the limits of you and / or your family’s combined funds. This will reflect the duration and location of your stay. For instance, London may be significantly more expensive than Bangkok.

While filtering through the many programs available on San Diego State’s study abroad website, you’ll encounter plenty of outdated, unprofessional and “page not found” links, but don’t fret. You’ll find your share of excellent resources if you keep to it.

Now it’s time to answer the questions above and use them as a map. Once, narrowed down, you’ll still have dozens of choices to pick from. So, use this as a guide to consider the basics and make a realistic assessment of what you expect of your experience abroad. And don’t forget to breathe a little; you’re about to have the time of your life.

—Ashley Williams is a public relations sophomore.

D A I LY A Z T E C Thursday, April 26, 2012

CLASSIFIEDS SERVICES

SERVICES

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Before Mother’s Day Arts & Crafts Fair, Free Saturday, 4/28 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., BW Elementary, 6269 Twin Lake Dr. San Diego 92119 (Cowles Mtn./Lake Murray area). Over 55 vendors! Food, Music & Fun!

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We dumb down the material and spoon feed it to you. Together we work through every possible problem and every possible concept.

YOUTUBE

16

D A I LY

AZTEC Thursday, April 26, 2012

B AC K PAG E

HUMOR

HOROSCOPE

Wish on a fallen rock star

TODAY’S BIRTHDAY (4/26/12) - Begin the year auspiciously by reviewing wellness practices like diet, exercise and meditation.

Add a daily dose of outdoor walking to replenish your soul and feed your heart.

Include friends. Stay young by keeping your mind busy with curiosity. Don't be afraid to ask why. And have fun!

D

o you have to be depressed to write a sad song? Do you have to be in love to write a love song?” Such were the words of William Miller in the movie “Almost Famous” as his character asked Russell Hammond what it was like to be in a band. Judging from my own personal experience of being in a rock band, it was a lot like the movie … in that they both lasted about two hours.

Picking up the guitar at age 20, I quickly became known around my circle of friends as the black Eric Clapton, which is weird, because I’m white. My life became centered on learning everything there is to know about the guitar. I was like a crack addict who just kept yearning for the next fix. But enough about Courtney Love.

After almost two years of learning every Metallica song my fingers could muster, I was ready for the next step: joining a mediocre local rock band.

Lucky for me, my best friend was already playing bass in a local outfit known as Quantum Theory. Think Jimmy Eat World if it was Christian and had no talent, and you’d have Quantum Theory. It started as a trio, but as luck would have it, was looking to expand to a foursome (what guy in college wasn’t, right?). That’s when I made it my ambition to be part of rock history. With my newly developed lead guitar skills, my position in the band was an obvious choice: bass. Turns out, my friend wanted to move to lead guitar. He pulled rank and ousted me down the musical ladder. I auditioned, got the part and began getting acquainted with slapping the four-string. My first step down the golden brick road of rock godliness had been taken.

Chris Blakemore staff columnist After weeks of rehearsals, petty arguments and an unknown number of $5 pizzas, we were ready for our first show as a foursome. The locale was a downtown staple known as Jerry’s Pizza. It was cozy, the way the trunk of a Cadillac is cozy if you were to be kidnapped by the Mafia. Of course, the trunk would probably smell better.

Groupies: check. Sound: check.

Groupies: double check. Butterflies the size of pterodactyls: check. The opening of our six-song set began with me playing a long bass line while the rest of the band slowly faded in. All I could envision was playing the wrong note, breaking a string or having a steady stream of urine make its way down my leg like a Hawaiian waterfall.

Fortunately, I made it through the first song unscathed. As the performance unfolded, my emotions were like the end of “Dirty Dancing”: I was having the time of my life. The fifth song of our set was a fast-paced tune designed to get the crowd moving around like hummingbirds on crack.

As the song started, I attempted an epic stage move: the punk rock jump.

Unfortunately for my skull, I forgot we were playing in a basement. My head slammed into a wooden beam like Paul Bunyan’s axe taking down a pine tree. Keeping with true rock star status, I kept playing and never missed a beat. I remember seeing stars, but it was most likely the flashes from people taking pictures of me and laughing hysterically.

Our second show as a foursome was a private gig for kids at a local

Catholic church. If uptight, snarky Catholic teenagers aren’t fans of second-rate rock music, I don’t know who is. After playing our first song, the music stopped, but the applause didn’t start. There’s nothing more humbling than playing a song for four minutes and having 30 teenagers stare at you blankly as if you were teaching them how to do their taxes.

We finished our set and high-tailed it out of there. Groupies be damned.

The third, and what turned out to be final, show of Quantum Theory’s career took place at a local Christian venue that had everything: great sound, bright lights and a crowd that didn’t judge, save for one big guy upstairs. With two shows in the books, we had a feeling this was going to be our breakout performance, and it was.

For 30 minutes of amplified glory, every fist pumped hard and every head banged concussively. We sounded like Aerosmith back when they were good and still on drugs.

When the last note of the night sounded and the crowd erupted in cheers, I felt like Eminem at the end of “8 Mile.” Strangers came up to me as I was loading my $90 bass into my $100 case to tell me how much they loved the show. The two years I had spent learning guitar had finally amounted to something, albeit in the form of a bass, but all that mattered that night was the splendor of rock.

Like most local bands, we broke up shortly after. Many calendar pages have since been torn away and I have yet to play another live show. But the memory stays with me. The thrill of playing a successful concert is like herpes — you just can’t get rid of it.

How’s that for an answer, William?

To get the advantage, check the day's rating: 10 is the easiest day, 0 the most challenging.

ARIES (March 21 - April 19) - Today is an 8 The forseeable future is good for making changes at home. Set juicy goals for yourself. Pull together as a team. Whistle while you work, and feast after.

TAURUS (April 20 - May 20) - Today is an 8 - All of a sudden, everything starts making sense. Old puzzles get solved. Consider your friends' suggestions, but it's okay to turn down an outrageous request.

GEMINI (May 21 - June 21) - Today is an 8 A new assignment brings in new revenue, and the temptation to spend it all could arise. Rake in the dough, but count it first.

Save some for repairs. Check for changes.

CANCER (June 22 - July 22) - Today is an 8 - You're stronger and more confident.

Meditate on the value of compassion.

Come up with a new future vision. Others encourage you to a challenge. Travel later.

LEO (July 23 - Aug. 22) - Today is a 7 Follow through on details for the next few days. Be sensitive to a loved one's wishes.

Invent a new story. It's important to show you care. Call home if you'll be late.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 - Sept. 22) - Today is a 9 -

619.594.4199

©2012, TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES INC.

Difficulty Level: 4 out of 4 Instructions: Complete the grid so each row, column and 3-by-3 box (in bold borders) contains every digit 1 to 9. For strategies on how to solve Sudoku, visit www.sudokudragon.com

FOR ALL OTHER CONTACTS, PLEASE VISIT

thedailyaztec.com

Solutions available online at www.thedailyaztec.com

PLEASE NOTE: The views expressed in the written works of this issue do not necessarily reflect the opinion of The Daily Aztec.

Letters to the editor can be sent to letters@thedailyaztec.com. Story ideas can be sent to tips@thedailyaztec.com.

Things are getting fun. Friends want you to play almost all the time these days. The invitation says "dressy." Invent your own style. New options surface.

LIBRA (Sept. 23 - Oct. 22) - Today is an 8 Stay attentive, as new opportunities are worth listening to. Choose wisely. Tune out the static. You and a partner can win.

Learn as you teach.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23 - Nov. 21) - Today is a 9 The day promises to bring you many surprises, for the good and for the bad.

Accept a challenge and learn from your failures. A loved one teaches you.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22 - Dec. 21) - Today is a 9 - Work on the chores that you've been avoiding but that you know you really ought to complete. You have a keen sense for finances now. Research the pros and cons before deciding.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22 - Jan. 19) - Today is a 9 - Work out strategy with someone who's opinion you value. Logic is only one side.

Clarify things by listing the facts. Look at emotional factors, too. New ideas arise.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20 - Feb. 18) - Today is a 9 - When it rains, it pours. Make the most out of publicity. Add efficiency to your work to withstand any storm. Don't gamble or get distracted. Take advantage.

PISCES (Feb. 19 - March 20) - Today is a 9 You're entering a romantic phase. Find a quiet place to complete your projects where you're less likely to be disturbed.

Avoid risky propositions. Keep your promises.

BY THE MEPHAM GROUP, TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES

SUDOKU

C O N TA C T : GENERAL INFORMATION

BY NANCY BLACK, TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES

©2012, TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES INC.

M O .C C E T Z A Y IL A D E H .T W WW CROSSWORD ACROSS 1 Party boss?

5 Bunks, e.g.

9 Lavish meal 14 Wine-growing region 15 Neural conductor 16 ’80s-’90s legal drama 17 Frustrated crossword solver’s cry 20 Kindle competitor 21 Chew toy material 22 Scholarship, e.g.

24 Spits out, as a DVD 27 Small beef 28 Move through muck 30 Brand at WilliamsSonoma 31 Little songbird 34 Frustrated crossword solver’s cry 40 Kindergarten rejoinder 41 Kan. hours 42 Hacienda honorific 43 Frustrated crossword solver’s cry 46 Formula One racer Fabi 47 Enzyme suffix 48 Spirited horse 49 Shriner hat 52 Two-time Bond portrayer 55 Ph.D. seeker’s exam 56 Keys at a bar, perhaps 59 Onetime larva 61 Relieved crossword solver’s cry 66 Nice states 67 Co-star of Tom in “Angels & Demons”

BY RICH NORRIS & JOYCE LEWIS, TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES

Solutions available online at www.thedailyaztec.com 68 Telethon request 69 It may be roja or verde 70 Shirts with slogans 71 Walkout walk-in DOWN 1 Yes, in Yokohama 2 __Kosh B’Gosh 3 Superior talents 4 Save for later, in a way 5 Holdup 6 Bus. line 7 Track relentlessly 8 Show derision 9 One may be fatal 10 Per capita 11 Bold poker bet 12 Jidda native

13 Short online posting 18 Job ad abbr.

19 “Delicious!”

22 It has defs. for 128 characters 23 “Didn’t bring my A-game” 25 Business biggies 26 By the sea 29 Respond smugly to 23-Down’s speaker 32 __-bitsy 33 Greek letter 35 It may be retractable 36 Desert trial 37 Like non-hydrocarbon compounds 38 Baseballer married to soccer’s Mia 39 Diving bird

44 Mountain warble 45 Takes another look at, as a cold case 49 Small winds 50 Musical with the song “A New Argentina” 51 Divided into districts 53 Till now 54 Rapa __: Easter Island 57 “Peanuts” cry 58 She met Rick in Paris 60 UPS deliveries 62 Carry a balance 63 Brush-off on the brae 64 Reproductive cells 65 Homespun home