MOVE Issue 027

MOVE 05.03.13 VOLUME 11 ISSUE 27

THE KEY TO YOUR ENTERTAINMENT

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FEST IT UP BRING OUT YOUR ARTSY SIDE AT THESE SUMMER FESTS BANISH PRE-FINALS BLUES ...AND CHECK OUT STONE SUGAR SHAKEDOWN AT THE BLUE NOTE WILL 'GATSBY' BE GREAT? six book-to-movie adaptations, on a scale of hp to twilight

summer From ice cream to study spots: the best of the best for a summer in CoMo

5

WILLIAM SCHMITT

best places to spend those lazy summer days

The

LOUD MINDED

discusses Chicago's answer to rapper Murphy Lee

morgan young | staff writer claudia singleton | photographer

»

Rap for reminiscing

Staying put for the summer? MOVE has got you covered.

With the final stretch of the semester ahead of us, the eerie feeling of upcoming finals, semester projects and multiple-page essays is lurking. The course assignments may be different, but everyone’s real thoughts (the ones buried beneath bio notes and Spanish conjugations) are on the same thing: summer.

While many will head back to their homes, others will have the privilege of staying put in our beloved CoMo. You may ask what there is to do in a college town when there is, well, no college going on (with the exception of summer courses). Not to worry! These spots are sure to entertain, even as students flock home for the summer.

Best place to grab a frozen treat

Think back two semesters. Think about where you were and what you were listening to. Two semesters ago, I had been talking to a guy who lived down the hall from me on the sixth floor of Schurz. Those of you who lived there knew this guy by his lovable antics, from rollerskating in his underwear to sharing his laughter around the zip code. This guy was from Chicago, and he did his best to represent his city.

Because I played my music with the door open, people understood that I listened to hip-hop. This guy did too, and one day he passed on a tip while he was shaving his chest and I was evacuating my bowels.

“Dude,” he said, “You should listen to Chance the Rapper.”

So I would spend the next half-hour researching and listening, learning that I had stumbled upon this high school hip-hopper just before the release of his mixtape #10Day. He played like the rapper Murphy Lee without the posse, with more anger than style, spikes instead of Air Force Ones. He played more maturity than the number on his license and more compassion and care about his family than the typical teen.

Chance has an ear for beats, crucial for any rapper hoping to be more than a shitty opener. The ability to select instrumentals that sound good as stand-alones, as well as complement one’s flow and tone is cultivated by comparing rappers and seeing where they differ.

“Liquid Swords” would not be the same if it were produced by DJ Quik, and 2pac would sound woefully out of place on a grimy concoction from the RZA. As far as coming-of-age releases go, #10Day isn’t a classic, but it’s worth a few spins around the block. He takes Apollo Brown's “Bridge Through Time” and makes it feel like summer. He has a tendency to yell the punch lines to his jokes and answer his own questions, but this comes off as a charming sort of brashness as opposed to thoughtless outbursts.

The next three songs make up one of the best stretches of the tape.

“Long Time” is an ode to his mother, and though 'Pac and Kanye both did it better, Chance is no slouch. He brought his face onto the scene with the clever “22 Offs,” a track with a concept of using the word “off ” as many times as possible while still making sense.

He continues the theme with “Family.” Without a doubt, this is my favorite hook on the tape, and I still find myself singing it as I mosey around East Campus. He hops on a section of Biggie’s “Big Poppa” for “Juke Juke,” ostensibly his idea of a club song. I think that if it ever gets played at a club, it will be mistaken for “Big Poppa” and met with a disappointed chorus of “FUCK THAT!,” but hey, I’m not even 21, so I can’t say anything.

He stays pretty high school-y throughout the rest of the tape, and it was very disappointing to see Chuck Inglish’s name on the tracklist only to hear “U Got Me Fucked Up” and then lose all hope that I had at the time of any sort of Cool Kids reunion.

Chance works with Chicagoans like fellow musicians Vic Mensa and Peter CottonTale for a lot of his beats, and he continues to do so on his newest release, Acid Rap. Chicago Sun-Times writer Jake Krzeczowski, who has a name pronounced by whistling and sneezing simultaneously, has already come out and said that Chance might be the biggest thing for Chicago hip-hop since Mr. West himself.

Acid Rap is scheduled for release at 5 p.m. April 30, and it is with great reluctance that I had to turn in this column without hearing it.

The best I can do at the current juncture is to point you toward his most recent singles “Juice” and “Smoke Again.”

Thanks for reading.

#1 Sparky’s Homemade Ice Cream

Stuck in a rut when it comes to your ice cream? Sparky’s features new flavors almost every day. Each new concoction is created in the shop based on requests from customers and staff members. So, whether you’re craving a basic flavor or something completely outside the box, Sparky’s has you covered.

Best place to “study” Best place to be a kid again

#2 Gunther’s Games

This retro, black-light arcade will take you straight back to the days when gaming was life (which may still be the case for some of you — no judgment). With vintage games like "Pac-Man" and "Galaga" right next to modern selections like "Guitar Hero," there is virtual fun for everyone.

For those of you fortunate enough to be spending the summer furthering your education, a good place to study (or to pretend to, anyway) is crucial. The atmosphere in Kaldi’s is quiet, chill and perfect for getting work done.

Tired of studying? Grab a bite to eat instead. The shop just revamped its menu and is serving up a variety of tasty new dishes just in time for summer. So far, the biggest sellers are its new barbecue nachos and the iced coffee creation known as the Honey Almond Toddy.

Best summer barbecue

Best place for summer style

#4

#5

Shotgun Pete’s BBQ Shack

/cover PHOTO/BEATRIZ COSTA-LIMA design/LAUREN RUTHERFORD EDITOR/DELIA CAI Photo editor/Lauren Kastner

#3 Kaldi's Coffee

Summer just isn’t complete without good barbecue. At Shotgun Pete’s, they take it to a whole new level.

With five homemade sauce options, 24 local beer selections and every side dish home-cooked, there is no doubt that it’s the real deal. The restaurant has been ranked by Urban Spoon as the best barbecue spot in mid-Missouri for three consecutive years, and Inside Columbia Magazine ranked its ribs in the top 100 foods all Columbia natives must try.

Elly’s Couture

From the newly-installed sequined wall to “The Hills” marathon that is constantly playing in the store, Elly’s Couture is a girly girl’s paradise. The shop carries Betsey Johnson accessories, A.J. Morgan shades (for only $15) and made-to-order Tiffany Rose custom jewelry. With a full range of prices, not to mention frequent sales, you’re sure to find a great outfit for any occasion.

Follow us on Twitter @ManeaterMOVE

There are only the pursued, the pursuing, the busy and the tired. wasn't actually in love, but I felt a sort of tender curiosity.

And I like large parties. They’re so intimate. At small parties the any privacy. Reserving judgements is a matter of infinite hope. It great advantage not to drink among hard drinking people. Can’t the past? Why of course you can! It takes two to make an acc amount of fire or freshness can challenge what a man will sto his ghostly heart Best & Worst book-to-movie adaptations TERRIFIC:

GREAT:

"THE SHAWSHANK REDEMPTION" (1994)

The film adaptation of Stephen King’s novella “Rita Hayworth and the Shawshank Redemption” reigns supreme when it comes to movies based on books. Considered by some to be one of the greatest movies ever, “Shawshank” provides a gripping cinematic adventure without disappointing its written predecessor.

If you haven’t seen it, watch it right this moment. Seriously.

2 MOV E • 05.03.13

"THE GIRL WITH THE DRAGON TATTOO" (2011)

Did you know that it’s possible to be even more socially inept than a wide-eyed college student? Lisbeth Salander, the main character in Steig Larsen’s critically-acclaimed trilogy, achieves this seemingly impossible feat. David Fincher beautifully adapts the suspenseful crime drama into an entertaining thrill ride with the help of Rooney Mara, who absolutely nails Salander’s character.

Daniel Craig’s underrated acting ability is worth mentioning as well, as he expertly plays the role of Mikael Blomkvist. Who knew he could do more than just wear a suit?

GOOD:

"HARRY POTTER"

(2001-2011)

Taking on the task of adapting one of the most successful and widely-read book series of all time is no simple task, and it took four directors, two Dumbledores and billions of dollars to do so. Love or hate the film series, there is a lot to be said for visually representing a world with which so many people are in love (or crazily obsessed, whatever). The book series is absolutely brilliant, and with only two hours to spare, nothing of comparable status could ever have been realistically achieved on the big screen.

The Viewing Room HANNAH BEDENKOP

on the best and worst movies she's seen this year

The semester in review When: 4 p.m. to midnight, Cinco de Mayo

COURTESY OF LINDSAY LEWIS

Where: Mojo's Tickets: $5 minimum donation

Lindsay Lewis, the mastermind behind Homegrown Art, will have some of her own art on display at the festival.

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with Homegrown Art The festival brings a hodgepodge of artists to Mojo's on Sunday.

katherine knott | staff writer

When: 4 p.m. to midnight, Cinco de Mayo Where: Mojo's Tickets: $5 minimum donation Looking for a way to bring out your inner artist while giving back to the community? The Homegrown Art Show might be just the thing you need.

The festival's creator, Lindsay Lewis, says the event is about spreading awareness for child abuse and neglect. Rainbow House is a local shelter that houses abuse victims. All proceeds from the festival will go to Rainbow House, Lewis says.

Lewis and co-planners Mattie Darden and Kyle Coggins have ties to the arts community here in town, and plan to showcase their talents at the show.

Lewis will have her own art on display, and Darden will play the opening set.

"We are putting on an event that we want to go to," Lewis says.

Homegrown Art's planners want everyone to have a good time. Twenty of the showcased artists will have also have work for sale at Mojo's. Eight bands, including Mary the Giant, The Thin Dimes and Mind at Large, will provide the night's entertainment. Darden says the bands donated their time.

The festival will also feature a blacksmith (who's bringing his own forge), author and face painter.

"It is a huge collaboration of the arts and music community to put on this event that a lot of people in Columbia will embrace and attend, hope-

Fests on fests on fests »

Four festivals you won't want to miss this summer zack nolan | reporter

Ninth Street Summerfest June 13 The Blue Note-sponsored annual Ninth Street When: Summerfest is gearing up for another run this summer. Although the blocking off of Ninth Street between Broadway and Walnut Street is a bit of a pain for drivers, it is a lot of fun for music enthusiasts of all genres. The festivities will be starting with a show

by Dierks Bentley. Not a country fan? The show is free. Go anyway.

fully," Lewis says.

In the spirit of Cinco de Mayo, Pepe's Food Truck will cater. Mojo's will also offer margarita specials.

"People who enjoy this arts community will enjoy the event," Lewis says. "Come enjoy an afternoon and night full of music and food."

The event, which started as just an idea eight months ago, has become the festival it is today with the help of the "older and wiser" community members. This is the first event for Lewis and her co-planners.

Lewis and the others have had struggles trying to get this event off the ground but Lewis says it's "a rewarding struggle."

"Literally seeing this tiny little seed of an idea grow up into this huge event is miraculous," Lewis says.

Lewis, Darden and Coggins will not make any money off this event, but Lewis says that was a personal choice. Instead, all proceeds will go to Rainbow House.

They did not set an exact fundraising goal, so you can feel free to give whatever you like. Every little bit counts — if they raise $500, then Rainbow House can buy diapers, Lewis says.

Lewis wanted to support Rainbow House because she wanted to spread awareness about child abuse and neglect and the fact they provide a shelter for the victims.

"I know, personally, (child abuse) is a big issue," Lewis says.

Lewis decided after the fact to support a charity with her art show.

Darden says she has gotten more out the experience by helping Rainbow House.

"It means more to Rainbow House than our wallets," Coggins says.

Art in the Park June 1-2 The 55th annual Art in the Park is coming to Stephens When: Lake Park this summer. The festival, presented by the Columbia Art League, boasts over 120 artists and happens to be the oldest and largest fine arts fest in the state of Missouri. Get out in the sun and celebrate your inner art lover (or fake it in order to impress your summer fling).

True/False Boone Dawdle When: August 17 True/False Film Fest's annual Boone Dawdle is rambling through the woods of Columbia once again. This perfect end-of-summer experience includes a beautiful 3-mile bike ride along a trail that is packed full of quirky-cool games and performances, ending in a dinner and documentary screening at Les Bourgeois Winery. Tickets go on sale June 1, but the event is free for those who volunteer. Nobody does hip like True/ False does, so buy your tickets early or sign up quick!

Well it’s been fun, kids. Writing a column for MOVE has been an absolute dream, and I have enjoyed every minute of it. I’ve laughed, I’ve cried (actually, no) and I’ve seen some really terrific, practically life-changing movies. I’ve had a ball.

But, unfortunately, there seems to be a universal law that says for every truly great film, there must be three crappy movies to balance it out. So without further ado, here are the best and worst movies I’ve seen during my time as a movie reviewer. They are split into fun categories because I am a fun person, dammit.

Movies Overall Best: “Electrick Children” — I physically cannot keep myself from talking about this movie. It was so enchanting and well-written and the acting was crazy good. The premise is sort of ridiculous: Mormon girl gets pregnant, believes the father is the voice on a cassette tape and runs away to Las Vegas. Then a coming-of-age character arc ensues. But it has already rocketed to the top of my movie recommendation list. If I can get one person to watch “Electrick Children,” this will all have been worth it. I don’t even really know what “this” is, but it sounds dramatic. Just go with it.

Worst: “Side Effects” — I still get angry when I think about the time I wasted watching “Side Effects.” It was far-fetched, poorly paced and high on its own drama. And for the love of God, can Channing Tatum please stop trying to be a dramatic actor? It’s not working for me.

Movies Set in Fantastical Worlds Best: “ParaNorman” — I did not expect to like this movie so much. I was pretty indifferent and a little skeptical at the start, but midway through the movie, it dawned on me that I was completely enraptured. It charmed the socks right off of me. It was also an incredible feat of animation, and it’s on Netflix now. So just go watch it. Please.

Worst: “Sucker Punch” — Oh boy, I don’t even know why I watched this. It was not geared toward me, seeing as I put actual stock in characterization and dialogue and, you know, a discernible plot. “Sucker Punch” failed on quite possibly every level. Well, maybe not the scantily-clad-women-with-machine-guns-fightingdragons level. It had plenty of that.

Movies with Ridiculous Titles Best: “Safety Not Guaranteed” — Who would have thought that a movie based on a classified ad for a time-traveling partner would be so good? It had wit and heart, and I thoroughly enjoyed it.

Also, Aubrey Plaza is a surprisingly terrific actress for someone who is quite possibly a robot.

Worst: “The Perks of Being a Wallflower” — I really didn’t mind the book, but the movie adaptation very nearly bored me to death. It was plodding and pretentious, and I hate myself for saying this, but Emma Watson was horribly miscast. Plus, Julia Garner, the star of “Electrick Children,” was part of the cast and was given a grand total of ZERO LINES. You don’t just waste talent like that, people.

Movies Released in 2013 Best: “Oblivion” — I think I rated this movie 3.5 out of 5 stars, so it’s kind of pathetic that “Oblivion” is my pick for best release of the year. But the early months are slow for the box office, and “Oblivion” was sleek and well acted and moderately entertaining.

Plus, the score was incredible, as were the visual effects. So whatever, I’m picking it. “Warm Bodies” is a close second.

Worst: “Dead Man Down” — Wasting $7 on this mess of a movie is one of my greatest regrets of the semester. I’m kidding, but not really. “Dead Man Down” dragged on for what seemed like hours, and it was hard to follow, not because it was complicated, but because it was so far-fetched and disjointed. I’m having trouble remembering the finer plot points because I must have blocked out the entire experience.

There you have it. I’ve seen an inordinate number of movies this year and some of them have been really quite good. And for those not-so-good films, well… attempting to write scathing reviews was certainly a unique kind of fun. Thanks for reading. I’ll see you all at the midnight premiere of “The Great Gatsby.”

There is no confusion like the confusion of a simple mind.. Gatsby the green light, the orgastic future that year by year recedes b t eluded us then, but that's no matter - to-morrow we will ru stretch out our arms farther . . And one fine morning. The exhilar ripple of her voice was a wild tonic in the rain. Look at that,' sh whispered, and then after a moment: 'I'd like to just get one of pink clouds and put you in it and push you around.. But his heart constant, turbulent riot.

Best & Worst book-to-movie adaptations MEDIOCRE:

"PERCY JACKSON & THE OLYMPIANS: THE LIGHTNING THIEF" (2010)

Rick Riordan’s popular book series made a lot of money. What was the film industry to do but try to make even more? The problem with “The Lightning Thief ” is that it didn’t really need to be made. Just because you can guarantee the film’s commercial success doesn’t mean you can guarantee a high-quality film. It’s a shame that it wasn’t, too, because Logan Lerman is definitely a high-quality actor.

BAD:

alex leininger | staff writer

TERRIBLE:

"THE GREAT GATSBY" (1974)

The 2013 adaptation of "The Great Gatsby" is likely doing its best to avoid the disappointment and dissatisfaction that came with Jack Clayton’s 1974 adaptation of the novel. Although it featured Robert Redford, one of the industry’s most coveted actors, as Gatsby, the movie failed to translate the highoctane, emotional and glamorous story onto the big screen. From its trailers, it doesn’t look like the upcoming 2013 adaptation will have any shortage of emotion or glamour. I suppose we’ll have to see.

"THE TWILIGHT SAGA" (2008-2012)

Is it fair to blame the movie for being a wreck when the book it's based on is no better? In the case of the “Twilight” film series, I think it is. Most notable is the poor job by the actors, who failed to channel any semblance of the emotional range generally considered necessary for the acting profession. Throughout the course of four films, Kristin Stewart managed to destroy any positive reputation she may have had with Hollywood. If vampires haven’t become totally uncool to you yet, you probably haven’t seen “Twilight.”

05.03.13• MOV E

3

TONGUE IN CHIC MADISON FELLER

on what your unique look can say about you.

Perfecting personal style As a junior at my high school, I was required to complete a project in order to graduate. Being the fashion-obsessed person that I am, I chose to do mine on how historical events influenced the clothing of the ‘20s, ‘30s, ‘40s and ‘50s. Any excuse to research fashion, right? It was a fascinating assignment, and through it, I came to understand how exactly style has evolved throughout history. But beyond the research, one of my favorite parts of the project was stumbling across this quote: “Fashion is not something that exists in dresses only. Fashion is in the sky, in the street, fashion has to do with ideas, the way we live, what is happening.”

This famous quotation by the legendary Coco Chanel embodies everything I find true about style. Fashion can often seem like a frivolous part of our growing consumer culture, but behind the all the frills and expensive price tags lies a true reflection of who we are.

It is no coincidence that military-styled clothing came into fashion in 2002, right as the country attempted to cope with the devastation of 9/11. And if you want to witness the effects gained freedoms for women in the 1920s, look no further than their flapper dresses and boyish silhouettes.

Of course we can observe history through textbooks, pictures and videos — but one of the most tangible artifacts from a zeitgeist?

Clothing.

So as Tongue in Chic comes to an end and I leave all you wonderful readers in the hands of the next fashion columnist (whoever that may be), I challenge you to examine your relationship with fashion or even how you view it as part of everyday life.

I know clothes can sometimes seem like a necessity — something you need to throw on in the morning just so you can be a normal, functioning member of society. But clothes and style can be a means of expression and a representation of your personal history.

For me, fashion is my constant puzzle — figuring out which pieces fit where, how I can put them together in new ways, all while creating a pretty picture. It’s my paintbrush and canvas, as cheesy at that sounds.

And as I track the progression of my style, I can see my own personal evolution. That year I only wore sweatpants and T-shirts to school? The last vestige of my self-proclaimed “tomboy” stage. That time I accessorized my sparkly prom dress with a candy bracelet instead of a corsage? My attempt at rebelling against the ridiculousness that often is prom.

But maybe fashion isn’t your means of expression, and that’s OK. We all choose to express ourselves in different ways, whether that be through words, music, art — however we can show the rest of the world who we are. Either way, you can’t deny that your style reflects something about who you are and how you choose to live your life.

As we ease into summer and classes start to dwindle down, take some time to think about what your personal style says about you, or maybe even what you want it to say about you.

Summer is the perfect time to peruse online blogs, vintage stores or even your best friend’s closet to figure out what works for you and what doesn’t. Fashion is all about trial and error, so don’t be afraid to make some mistakes along the way.

On a completely different note, it feels so weird to be dispensing my last bits of fashion knowledge to all of you, and I can’t help but feel like I’ve forgotten something. Was it to remind you that you should always make sure your behind is covered when you wear leggings? Or that sparkly UGGs are never a good idea? Or maybe that all guys out there should use caution when venturing into V-neck territory?

Nevertheless, I’m sure you’ll all figure it out.

Here’s wishing you all a summer filled with popsicles, slip-n-slides and enough cute outfits to make even the hottest of lifeguards swoon.

Make me proud, guys.

Read exclusive content

ONLINE @ move.themaneater.com

From the editor: Heather Finn on following the real Deal(ia) TV: Jack Howland on avoiding spoilers at all costs Study Abroad: Mollie Barnes on babysitting your parents overseas

and so much more!

4 MOV E • 05.03.13

Funk and fiddles

PHOTO COURTESY OF NICK ELWOOD

hit The Blue Note on May 10

lauren rutherford | staff writer

The pre-finals blues: brought on by stress and the thought of cramming more knowledge into one’s brain. The cure: some funky grooves courtesy of The Stone Sugar Shakedown. “'Stone Sugar' is meant to evoke the idea of harmony, balance and the coexistence of opposites,” guitarist and vocalist Nick Elwood says. “'Shakedown' is supposed to make people feel good and get excited.”

The Stone Sugar Shakedown, a funk group native to St. Louis, will open for local band The HipNecks on May 10 at The Blue Note. Elwood says the group couldn’t be more excited to bring its A-game to Columbia.

“It’s far enough away that it’s playing out of town, so it’s a little more exciting," Elwood says. “It’s a different experience than the everyday thing.”

The HipNecks, the show’s headliners, are a literal blend of hippie and redneck influences that produces a rock 'n' roll sound with hints of bluegrass. Think twangy tunes rooted in mid-Missouri soil. Its song “Water Ain’t Right” was featured as part of _Revival: Columbia Missouri Music Compilation_, recorded at local studio Home Tone Records. You can’t get more local than these guys and gals.

As for The Stone Sugar Shakedown, multiple vocalists as well as a jazz background bless the group with the power to perform both vocally charged and strictly instrumental pieces.

When: May 10 Where: The Blue Note Doors: 8:30 p.m. / Show: 9:30 p.m.

Tickets: $5

“Musically, we’re trying to keep it diverse,” Elwood says. “It’s rooted in funk and blues and rock and sort of the attitudes of those styles. The main philosophy is to improvise as much as possible and jam stuff out.

We play a lot of originals and covers as well because it’s all just about having a song to start from, a jump-off point.”

Over the years, The Stone Sugar Shakedown has taken different forms, as the band transitioned through a rotating cast of members.

Elwood says that he and Tracy Gladden have been the two batteries behind the group ever since they came up with the name together — a name that invokes curiosity and ties the tongues of many.

“I think 'Stone Sugar Shakedown,' even though it’s kind of a lot to say and might be hard to remember, stands out when you see it,” Elwood says.

He says the funky band name was born out of word association.

Gladden and Elwood made two huge lists of words and tried different combinations until something stuck. He says, laughingly, that anything is better than the band name of his group in college, Music for Dogs.

But The Stone Sugar Shakedown’s funk carries far past its name. The band's performance at The Blue Note promises to be funky fresh and soulfully groovy.

“If anyone is looking for a good show to see or a band that is always trying something new, keepin’ at it and is genuine, then I definitely encourage those folks to come to the show,” Elwood says. “We’re doing something that we love and trying to spread the good energy. There’s something righteous about a good show.”

Q&Awith Ben Rector sara higginbotham | staff writer

This spring, Ben Rector and his band embarked on the cleverly titled “The Ben RecTOUR 2013” for several months of entertaining small college towns as well as big cities across the states.

His songs range from swooning love melodies to upbeat, lively tunes, so everyone is bound to find a song they can fall in love with. It’s perfect for rolling your windows down and driving around on a hot summer day.

Trust us; we’ve done it.

Rector has released four full albums and three EPs since the start of his career, but his down-to-earth personality and catchy lyrics mirror his musical roots.

The artist took a few minutes out of his crazy tour schedule to chat with MOVE about what he’s been up to lately.

[MOVE]: What has been your favorite experience from this spring’s tour?

[Ben Rector]: That’s tough to say … I’ve honesty enjoyed playing all the shows, so it’s hard for me to pick a specific one. We’ve worked on the set a lot and made it something that’s unique and fun to play, and it’s hopefully always fun for people to take in. Every show has really been enjoyable.

[M]: You’ve been to large cities as well as small college towns on this tour. Which crowds do you prefer performing for and why?

[BR]: I really do like performing in college towns. There’s a lot of character in the towns and the venues are in cool places. There’s a little more going on, and there’s a little more energy than in a big city. I’m not that far out of college, so it feels kind of good to be back in that environment.

[M]: We’ve heard you are coming out with a new album this summer.

What can listeners look forward to?

[BR]: We don’t know exactly when it will come out. We don't know the release date yet. I wanted to be a little more concise in my song writing.

I want people to be able to picture me sitting five or six feet away from them playing a song. The songs capture what I’ve learned how to do rather than building something. I wanted it to feel natural and organic.

[M]: Where do you find inspiration when writing your music?

[BR]: I find it all over the map. It’s not just from one specific place or type of interaction or feeling. The more you write, the more you’re exposed to different things. Whatever impacts me or the people around me in some form comes out in a song.

[M]: How did you get started in the music industry?

PHOTO COURTESY OF BIGHASSLE.COM

[BR]: I started playing in the high school band, but I really got into it in college. I had an EP at the end of my freshman year and played on campus some. The next fall, there were people around campus that asked me to play at fundraisers and events. I worked really hard to improve in college as a writer and performer, and I started traveling a lot. It’s been an organic process of people spreading the word, and it’s grown more quickly since I’ve gotten out of college.

[M]: Some of your songs are used in commercials and popular TV shows like "One Tree Hill" and "Modern Family." What is that like for you?

[BR]: It’s a really cool thing. I’m very thankful that people want to use my music. I don’t always know when they’re going to end up using the song because they ask for it months before the show. So I’ll get on Twitter and see that someone heard one of my songs on TV. So that doesn’t get old, and I’m very thankful that shows have wanted to use my songs. It’s awesome.

[M]: What should people expect at your show at The Blue Note?

[BR]: It’s going to be a chill evening and an entertaining experience. I interact with the crowd some, which is always fun.

[M]: Columbia is the last stop on your spring tour. What are your plans after this?

[BR]: I’ll high-five my band and tell them the tour was awesome. We might do something special at this show since it’s the last one, but I’m not sure yet. This tour was about eight weeks long, so we’ll want to rest. It’ll be good to go home and see my wife and friends in Nashville, Tenn. again.

Ben Rector will be performing at 8:30 p.m. on Saturday, May 11 at The Blue Note.