VOLUME 14, ISSUE 11 | APR 20 - MAY 3 From Trauma to Art PG. 13 Q&A: Ali Jaafar of Ecstattic Studio PG. 16
THE WAKE STUDENT MAGAZINE | VOLUME 14, ISSUE 11
EDITORIAL: Editor-in-Chief Grace Birnstengel Managing Editor Lauren Cutshall
Copy Editors Sara Glesne, Lindsey Pastrorek
Cities Editor Emily Mongan
Editorial Interns Kevin Beckman, Shawnna Stennes, Alex Van Abbema
Voices Editor Kayla McCombs
Faculty Adviser Chelsea Reynolds
Sound & Vision Editors Alex Nelson, Sara Glesne
Art Interns Breanna Vick, Breck Hickman, Andrew Tomten, Olivia Novotny, Cera Nelson, Kate Doyle
Art Directors Lizzie Goncharova, Max Smith
PRODUCTION: Executive Director Kelcie McKenney
Public Relations Consulting PRSSA UMN
Head Designer Amanda Gentle
Social Media Manager Abby Richardson
Graphic Designers Kayla Lutteke, Erin Slayton, Becca Sugden
Finance Manager Nels Haugen
Web Manager Carter Gruss Public Relations/ Advertising Manager Jennifer Burns
THIS ISSUE:
Distributors Ryan Condron, Chris Roebber Production Interns Sam Gordon, Caleb Vanden Boom, Alexa Orak, Jake Merritt
Illustrators Breck Hickman, Olivia Novotny, Cera Sylar, Kate Doyle, Andrew Tomten, Ellen Puls, Max Smith, Lizzie Gonchorova, Breanna Vick, Miranda Harincar Photographers Olivia Novotny, Amy Verrando Contributing Writers Sam Gordon, Jeff Knoespel, Emma Klingler, Erik Newland, Alex Van Abbema, Kevin Beckman, Gina Van Thomme, Madison Bloomquist, Annalize Gall, Carson Kaskel, Olivia Novotny, Sara Glesne, Abby Richardson, Breck Hickman, Lianna Matt, Carter Jones, Lauren Cutshall, Karl Witkowiak, Alex Nelson, Kate Doyle, Ryan Meany Front Cover by Olivia Novotny Back Cover by Kate Doyle
Time Capsule Neighborhood PG. 5
Soccer in Minnesota PG. 12
Pedal Power PG. 7
From Trauma to Art PG. 13
The Wake’s Football Forecast PG. 8
Q&A: Ali Jafaar of Ecstatic Studio PG. 16
The Stages of Finding a Summer Internship PG. 10
When the Homework is Done PG. 19
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR I read somewhere once that Lady Gaga takes five min utes a day, every day, to focus solely on herself. No phone calls, no work, just zones out and does... what ever it is Lady Gaga does to relax (probably knits sweaters out of sausage, but hey, to each their own). Ever since I read that I’ve tried to do the same: just take a few minutes and do something purely for myself, which usually involves painting my nails and watching “Whose Line Is It Anyway?” clips on YouTube. But as nice as it is, it’s not always easy to accomplish. College can be an incredibly busy and stressful time, which is why it’s important for us to dedicate a few moments each day to some uninterrupted me-time. Taking a little time each day to regroup and just breathe can be the difference between a busy yet manageable day and a day that leaves you feeling like road kill. If you’re in need of some inspiration, the good folks of The Wake have your back (as we always do). Go out for a ride in honor of 30 Days of Biking, or kick back and watch a few music videos.
©2015 The Wake Student Magazine. All Rights Reserved. Established in 2002, The Wake is a fortnightly independent magazine and registered student organization produced by and for students at the University of Minnesota. The Wake Student Magazine 126 Coffman Memorial Union 300 Washington Avenue SE Minneapolis, MN 55455 The Wake was founded by Chrin Ruen & James DeLong.
So follow Gaga’s lead. Take a few minutes each day to do something for yourself, whatever that is (meat sweaters not recommended). Your homework can wait, and your stress levels will thank you. And take comfort, Wakies—summer is coming. Emily Mongan Cities Editor
Disclaimer: The purpose of The Wake is to provide a forum in which students can voice their opinions. Opinions expressed in the magazine are not representative of the publication or university as a whole. To join the conversation email gbirnstengel@wakemag.org.
www.wakemag.org facebook.com/thewakemagazine @the_wake wake-mag.tumblr.com thewakemagazine
ONE-PAGE MAGAZINE
WAKE RANTZ Teacher evaluations—that singular piece of paper that the entire semester has been leading up to are nearly upon us, and with them the forced introspection that comes with the dreaded third question: “what could you have done to be a better student?” Can we not have the cathartic joy of throwing a professor under the proverbial bus without the looming threat of deep, meaningful self-examination? I’ve fucked up. No doubt. But that should be the last thing on my mind as I furiously scribble a list of expletives and profane complaints against that one teacer’s grading style. If I stub my toe on the coffee table, for instance, I don’t rationally pause and exclaim, “Well that was stupid of me.” No, I kick the table and scream, “IT’S THE GODDAMN TABLE’S FAULT.” To the bird outside my window in the wee hours of thw morning who will not shut up no matter what, or go away to another branch or an other tree or another city or another state or another freaking planet, and who will only sing the same damn bird song every single time, with two seconds of silence in between, just to annoy me and just to make me mad and even angrier than I already am in the morning... Please. Shut up. I already know it’s spring time. Dear Pandora, You’ve got me all wrong. Your ads seem to think I am a different person than I am and it’s making me question my musical identity. Last week you told me to apply to Minnesota State Mankato. This week you’re telling me to check out McNally Smith College of Music. In the past, you asked me if I wanted to apply for a job at Valvoline Oil Change. Who do you think I am? I listen to the Golden Oldies station and Bon Iver. Also, you can stop sending me ads for Planned Parenthood and “My Sexual Health,” I’m not pregnant.
ANNOYED WITH SOMETHING? Send your 10 to 150-word rant to rants@wakemag.org and yours might be in our next issue! 4 | APR 20 - MAY 3
College Freshmen by Breck Hickman
The Stages of Seeing a Dog on Campus
Deep Dish Devotion By Emma Klingler
By Olivia Novotny
This June, Hennepin Avenue in uptown Minneapolis will welcome Giordano’s Pizza, one of Chicago’s most famous deep dish chains. Now excuse me while I weep for joy.
You’re on your way to class when suddenly, from a distance, you see a person walking their dog. Your heart races. This might be the best day of your life. Here’s the emotional rollercoaster involved in getting your paws on that pup.
A native of Illinois myself, I can assure you that is the proper reaction to hearing this news. Deep dish pizza is the god to which we pray, and no chain carries as much recognition as Giordano’s. Countless celebrities, including Kim Kardashian, Kanye West, and Tom Cruise, have made the pilgrimage to this famed establishment while visiting the Windy City. For those of you who have not had the pleasure of eating Giordano’s deep dish, you won’t have to take my word for its merit much longer. The stressful choice of which toppings to order, the effort it takes not to snatch the pizza out of the server’s hand, the first life-changing bite of that saucy deliciousness: all of these experiences will be yours in just a few short months. Reefer
29.03%
Astro Turf
19.35%
Ganja
32.26%
Doob
19.35%
Favorite Slang Words for Marijuana
1. Surprise: You stop dead in your tracks. “Do you guys see that dog?” 2. “Gosh darn mommy fudge. What in the ham sandwich are you doing here?” 2. Denial: You continue staring at the dog, trying to get a better look. “No way, they cannot be walking a dog right now. This is not real. It is so damn cute. Do you guys see it?” 3. Play it cool: As you get closer to the dog, you try not to seem crazy. “Oh my god. Oh. My. God.” 4. Screw it and geek out: You work up the courage to ask the question. “Can I please pet your dog?” 5. Annoyance: The owner checks their watch as you are on your hands and knees. “What’s her name? Hold old is she? What type of dog is she?” 6. Departure: The time comes for you to part ways. You watch until the dog is out of sight. “That dog was so freakin’ adorable. My day is made.”
THE WAKE CITIES
LAND’S END PASTY COMPANY
THE CORNISH DINING EXPERIENCE COMES TO DINKYTOWN By Sam Gordon At the very end of the first-floor hallway of Dinkydale Mall, its entrance nestled between Shuang Cheng Restaurant and Varsity Bike & Transit, you’ll find a relatively new eating establishment by the name of Land’s End Pasty Company. Serving hand-held Cornish meals since summer 2014, this family-owned operation brings a warm addition to the Dinkytown food scene. Jon Earl and his nephew, Pete Jacobson, have given us all a reason to visit that brightly lit corridor more often, providing the comfort of a hearty English lunch and a cold Fentimans beverage. For those who don’t know (roughly a quarter of their customers thus far), a pasty (PASS-tea) is a self-contained meal of potatoes, meats, and vegetables in many combinations and varieties, baked into an easy-to-hold pastry. At Land’s End Pasty Company, these varieties range from chicken wild rice to steak Stilton, and even breakfast and vegetarian options. Jacobson, a young and enthusiastic restaurant host, said that his uncle Jon’s recipes come from traditional Cornish pasties.
A Minnesota native, Jon Earl began making pasties for his coworkers at Boston Scientific. He drew inspiration for the traditional style recipes from a family friend in Cornwall, England. A region called Land’s End, at the southwestern-most tip of England, became the namesake for their pasty shop. Once the business was established, the coastal town theme of Cornwall continued through the restaurant’s menu and ambiance. Upon my first journey to Land’s End, Jacobson welcomed me at the counter and asked if I was familiar with the English fare. I have had my fair share of pasties before—but none like these. Land’s End pasties are set apart by the delicious bite of apple pie baked into the corner, a built-in dessert at the end of your meal. I ordered the steak traditional and a side of fries with their house-made mayo-mustard sauce. Hearty and full of flavor, my first impression of this pasty could be described as a thick and
savory hand-held beef stew. As I ate, a selection of English sitcoms played on the television in the corner. I watched Earl work just behind the display case, carefully shaping dough for the next batch. A pile of potatoes for fresh-cut fries sat across the kitchen, ready for washing. With a friendly crew and a clean dining area, this place beams with the values of great food and great service. Land’s End has been enjoying support from the University community with several student and faculty regulars stopping by during lunch hours. Needless to say, I’ll be returning to Land’s End often, both as a supporter of great Dinkytown food and a lover of English culture done right.
TIME CAPSULE NEIGHBORHOOD
GET OUT AND EXPLORE MINNEAPOLIS’ NEWEST HISTORICAL SITE By Jeff Knoespel Just east of the University of Minnesota campus sits Prospect Park, a neighborhood filled with quaint residential streets, unique stores, and industrial patina. Last month, a state review board unanimously approved the neighborhood’s application for National Designation by the U.S. Department of Interior, adding Prospect Park to the National Register of Historic Places. If you’ve never explored Prospect Park, there has never been a better time to dig into the roots of Tower Hill and the surrounding area. The diverse neighborhood includes TCF Bank Stadium and borders the University of OLIVIA NOVOTNY
Minnesota stretching from Oak Street to Emerald Street Southeast. Its northern border is the railroad yard; the southern border is the mighty Mississippi. Tracing that southern border is the East River Parkway, where grand old houses sit far back from the street overlooking the river. It is a nice place to take a walk or go for a bike ride, especially on the trails along the Mississippi. The most iconic piece of Prospect Park is the Witch’s Hat Water Tower, which dutifully guards the neighborhood from the top of Tower Hill. Designed by Frederick William Cappelen and built in 1913, the Witch’s Hat stands 110 feet tall and was used for 40 years to supply water to the neighborhood. It is even rumored to be the inspiration of a Bob Dylan song “All Along the Watchtower.” Surrounding the tower is a wooded park with twisting paths, perfect for a solitary stroll or romantic walk. Atop the hill, the highest natural point in Minneapolis, you can
sit and bask in one of the best views of the Minneapolis skyline. For an even better view, the tower’s observation deck is open just once every year during the annual Pratt Community School ice cream social, the Friday after Memorial Day weekend. Throughout Prospect Park stand many beautiful homes, including one designed by renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright. Wright designed the house for Malcolm Willey, an administrator at the University. Willey’s wife Nancy wrote a letter to Wright in 1932 asking him to design a house, a “creation of art” for them. Wright finished the house, which he ended up calling “Gardenwall,” in 1934, and today the house is known as the Malcolm Willey House. The spring weather makes this the perfect time to awake from winter hibernation to get out and explore how wonderful Minneapolis can be. Why not start with Prospect Park?
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THE WAKE CITIES
CELEBRATE, REMEMBER, FIGHT BACK THE PERSONAL STORIES BEHIND RELAY FOR LIFE By Emma Klingler Thousands gathered in Mariucci Arena for the University of Minnesota’s Relay for Life on April 17 to light candles, share stories, and walk in remembrance of lost loved ones. The University’s Relay is the largest in the Midwest and the 8th largest in the entire nation, and is planned and hosted by the student group Colleges Against Cancer. Each year, Relay and Colleges Against Cancer raises over $100,000 dollars for cancer research and programs. As remarkable as that number is, what’s really special about this event is the meaning that it carries for the numerous participants. One in three people will be diagnosed with some form of cancer in their lives, and everyone knows someone who has been affected by cancer. Eric Noll, a junior studying genetics, cell biology, and development with plans to apply to medical school, is the current vice president of Colleges Against Cancer. But his involvement in Relay for Life predates his college experience: when he was in seventh grade, his mother was diagnosed with stage-three breast cancer. “We were fortunate enough that she was referred to Mayo Clinic in Rochester where she had a great team of surgeons and oncologists,” Noll said. His mother has been cancer-free for seven years, but she is not the only member of his family to have gone through that struggle. Noll’s grandmother is also a breast cancer survivor, and his great aunt has recently been diagnosed. The evident genetic predisposition to cancer in his family is something with which Noll is concerned. “There’s always the startling reality that if I ever have children, and if one of them was a girl, god forbid she gets breast cancer.” Because of this, Noll is particularly interested in educating college students on healthy behaviors to reduce the likelihood of cancer onset. Colleges Against Cancer works in this capacity as well. “A big part of our group is the mission and advocacy factor and informing the campus about cancer prevention,” said Nate Wong, a senior studying graphic design and the current president of Colleges Against Cancer.
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Their cleverly named events to promote healthier behaviors include the Saving Second Base 5K for breast cancer awareness, the Spike Out Skin Cancer volleyball tournament, and the Protect Your Balls dodgeball tournament for prostate cancer. Colleges Against Cancer’s biggest and most anticipated event each year is Relay for Life, or as the group advertises it, “The one-night stand you won’t forget.” The preparation for this event begins essentially right after the previous one ends. The venue has to be chosen, the advertisements made, and the entertainment booked. This year’s Relay featured numerous student group acts including a capella groups, the marching band, and a few local bands. While all of these activities are great, Wong said his favorite part of the event is the luminaria ceremony. A much more solemn aspect of Relay for Life, the luminaria ceremony gathers participants to honor those lost in the battle against cancer. A survivor comes to speak, or someone on a survivor’s behalf, and then the lights are dimmed and luminaria bags containing candles that display pictures of lost loved ones are lit. The ceremony also includes music, and a slideshow with pictures.
women undergoing changes in appearance due to treatment feel good about themselves. But the main goal of Relay for Life’s mission is to learn how to stop and prevent cancer, which is why a great amount of the money raised goes to research. In Minnesota alone, the American Cancer Society invests $7.5 million for research to be done. Of that $7.5 million, $3.3 million goes directly to the University and is used to fund research at centers on campus. Knowing that actions are being taken, especially right here at our school, is a large part of what refuels the excitement each year. “It is primarily about celebrating, remembering, and fighting back,” Wong said. Once again, Relay for Life saw Wong and Noll, and thousands of others with their own stories, turn up in order to celebrate the progress made, remember the lives lost, and continue the fight to end cancer for good.
“It’s what gets people to come back every single year,” Noll said. “It gets you to remember why you’re doing it. But then it’s back to fun and back to fighting back.” And fight back they do. Teams register with the American Cancer Society and can continue to fundraise well into August, long after the Relay for Life event ends. The money raised is then given to the American Cancer Society to help fund research and recovery programs for cancer patients. One of the recovery programs is Hope Lodge, located right outside of stadium village. Hope Lodge is a place where patients and their families can stay while they are receiving cancer treatment. Others include Road to Recovery, a program where volunteers drive patients to their treatment, and Look Good Feel Better, a campaign to help men and
CERA SYLAR
THE WAKE CITIES
PEDAL POWER
30 DAYS OF BIKING KICKS OFF ITS LARGER-THAN-EVER SIXTH YEAR By Erik Newland The event has grown rapidly through word-of-mouth and Stephenson’s effective use of social media. “[Stephenson] has always been very good on Twitter,” Macaruso said. As of the end of the ride, the campaign had over 8,100 people who pledged to ride their bikes every day for the 30 days in April, rain or shine.
On April 2 a ragtag group of cyclists met at a Dunn Bros in downtown Minneapolis for the first official Thursday group ride of 30 Days of Biking. Their 2015 kickoff ride was held March 29; a cold and rainy day that saw over 300 attendees. Leading the charge were two of the passionate bikers who started the month-long event, which has grown to 7,000 participants across 100 countries. Close friends Mario Macaruso and Patrick Stephenson led the ride—traveling from the banks of the Mississippi River to Interstate 694 and back with a group of over fifty bikers. Among them were professionals with expensive road bikes, as well as commuters on squeaky single-speeds. According to Stephenson, the whole idea of their rides is to be inclusive, contrary to the opinion that cycling is an elitist sport. “There’s all these weird structures that make it impenetrable,” he said.
KATE DOYLE
Macaruso wants to encourage everyone, not just racers and wealthy hobbyists, to get involved with cycling, and to experience the same feeling he gets from being able to get outside, be active, and explore.
Stephenson explained that biking has a reputation for being focused on what you wear and how expensive your bike is. He wore a jersey with cotton shorts on the ride, a “fashion faux pas” in the world of expensive cycling gear.
“I want to get people to feel that stoke,” Macaruso said.
It was this inclusive mindset that drove Stephenson and his friend Zachariah Schaap to start 30 Days of Biking. It began in 2010, when the two met at Freewheel Bike’s midtown location. Stephenson said he “just started making a list of everyone who wanted to join, and it just exploded.”
Other organized group rides in the city such as the Critical Mass rides, in which hundreds of bikers literally take over the streets, have fueled the negative perception of cycling, Stephenson said. He aims to change that with 30 Days. “It’s a different mindset,” Stephenson said. “It’s a shift.”
MENTAL HEALTH U
GET TO KNOW YOUR CAMPUS MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES By Alex Van Abbema Student loans, midterms, falling behind in class, and trying to keep a crazy college schedule in order can be a challenge. But sometimes these everyday issues, or other extenuating circumstances, can become overwhelming and lead to something more serious, like depression or severe anxiety. In recent weeks, and with Mental Health Month coming in May, the University of Minnesota community has taken a renewed focus on mental health, ensuring all students are aware of their options when it comes to managing their mental health.
Fortunately, there are plenty of resources for students experiencing mental health problems at the University. Appleby Hall’s University Counseling and Consulting Services offers both individual and group counseling, covering career issues, general stress, depression, and anxiety. Students can stop in at 340 Appleby to set up an appointment from the hours of 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays.
overall decrease in their quality of work. Social changes might occur as well. “Oftentimes, people will socially withdraw, so they might not be engaging even with their friends,” she said.
According to the most recent Boynton Health survey, which had over 13,000 responses, 19 percent of students have been diagnosed with depression in their lifetimes, and 18 percent have been diagnosed with an anxiety issue. Boynton psychotherapist Meg Benefield said that more students have been coming in to get help in recent years.
Boynton offers similar counseling to Appleby, but is more specialized. They can also offer services for students who want to take more serious action, such as starting medication. Whereas Appleby counseling is unlimited for students, Boynton allows 11 appointments per 12 month period. Staff at Boynton and University Counseling and Consulting Services can also help students get referrals to other community resources.
If someone you know shows signs of depression, like abnormal or uncharacteristic behavior, an overall lack of motivation, or generally just seems off, talk to them about it. If you feel as though this is a serious problem, let them know about the University’s resources, and listen to what they have to say.
“I think there is an increased pressure to do well in college, and I think more students are really overloaded with competing demands,” she said.
While warning signs for a mental condition might not be immediately obvious, Benefield said that students struggling with depression might start to miss class and have an
If you or someone you know is in a crisis situation, considering suicide or self-harm, call the Crisis Connection at 612-301-4673, or call 911.
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THE WAKE CITIES
RECORD-SETTING REDEMPTION
GOPHER WOMEN’S HOCKEY TEAM CLAIMS SIXTH NCAA TITLE By Kevin Beckman The 2015 NCAA championship game on March 22 meant a chance at redemption for the members of the top-seeded Minnesota Gophers women’s hockey team. It also meant a chance to set a national record. This same team claimed both the 2012 and 2013 NCAA titles, and a victory for Minnesota in 2014 would have set the collegiate women’s hockey record at six total national championship victories. The Gophers, however, suffered a frustrating loss to Clarkson University, leaving team members more determined than ever to get another chance at the championship. “It’s tough when you’re on the losing end and have to see the other team throw their gloves off and hoist the championship trophy,” junior goaltender Amanda Leveille said. “It just fuels you the whole summer and all of the next year to want to be on the other side of the blue line when the game’s over,” junior Hannah Brandt said. “All you can ask for is the chance.”
The Gopher’s successful 2015 season gave them that chance, sending them once again to the NCAA championship game. Minnesota defeated third-seeded Harvard University 4-1 to win their sixth national title, redeeming last year’s upset and setting the collegiate women’s hockey record. “It’s incredible to be on the team so set apart from everybody else,” Leveille said. She made 19 saves in the title game, limiting Harvard to a single goal. “We had an unbelievable team both on and off the ice and it was really amazing to be a part of that.” In a press conference following the game, head coach Brad Frost commended his team for their determination and sportsmanship. “It’s easy to exude your values and embody those when you’re winning,” Frost said, “but to lose last year and still see our players be so gratful for the opportunity to play
here, it just makes this year that much sweeter.” “It doesn’t matter if we win or lose. Coach Frost is expecting us to be respectful and show the most class,” Brandt ELLEN PULS said. “We know how not fun it is to be on the other side of the blue line at the end.” Brandt said that even after four consecutive championship appearances, the team isn’t intimidated by expectations for next season. “I don’t think we think about it too much. We’re kind of used to that at this point. But I think it matters to other teams,” Brandt said. “With our reputation, we always have that target on our back. Other teams just want to be the ones to beat us.”
THE WAKE’S FOOTBALL FORECAST BREAKING DOWN QUARTERBACK PERFORMANCE, THE TOP RUNNING BACK, AND DEFENSE PROSPECTS FOR NEXT SEASON By Alex Van Abbema It may only be spring, but the Gopher football team is already practicing and preparing for next season. There are several question marks for the team going into next season, mostly revolving around offense. WHO WILL BE THE NUMBER ONE RUNNING BACK? Senior David Cobb graduated after an incredible season in which he set the Gophers’ rushing record in a season with 1,626 yards. Both Cobb and backup running back Donnell Kirkwood have departed, leaving possible replacements Rodrick Williams and redshirt freshman Jeff Jones. Williams looks to be the starter right now, but four star recruit Jeff Jones should provide a huge impact and may eventually overtake Williams. Expect sophomore Berkley Edwards to spend some time at both running back and receiver.
8 | APR 20 - MAY 3
HOW WILL MITCH LEIDNER PERFORM THIS SEASON? Leidner had some moments last season, but he was still arguably the weakest quarterback in the Big Ten. Leidner was up and down all season, with the lowlight being his performance against Wisconsin. With a trip to the Big Ten title game at stake, Leidner completed just give passes on 18 attempts in the Gopher loss. However, in the previous game against Nebraska, Leidner showed great poise and made a couple of big plays in the game-winning drive. Leidner will be without his top receiver, tight end Maxx Williams, and occasional big-play receiver Isaac Fruechte. With the loss of Williams, expect Leidner to run as much, if not more, than last year. His completion percentage will also have to come up if he hopes to be the full-time starter.
MAX SMITH
WILL DEFENSE BE ABLE TO OVERCOME LOSS OF FOUR KEY SENIORS? Cedric Thompson, Damien Wilson, Derrick Wells, and Cameron Botticelli—four invaluable players for 2014’s Minnesota defense—all graduate this year. However, expect the defense to be incredible again under coordinator Tracy Claeys. The defense was consistent all of last season, and kept the team in the game when the offense sputtered. Cornerback Eric Murray, defensive lineman Thieran Cockran, and linebacker De’Vondre Campbell should all step up and have a big season this year.
Expectations are high after the Gophers first New Year’s Day bowl game appearance in more than 50 years. The Gophers are 0-3 in bowl games under Jerry Kill, but hopefully this is the year the Gophers break that streak. The Gophers will face a tough test opening the season with Texas Christian University at TCF Bank Stadium on September 3. Be there!
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THE WAKE VOICES
WHO IS TREVOR NOAH? WHY THE NEW THE DAILY SHOW HOST IS EXACTLY WHAT WE NEED
LIZZIE GONCHAROVA
By Emma Klingler Jon Stewart’s announcement that he will be leaving The Daily Show after sixteen years of hosting came as a blow to the dedicated viewers who watched him transform the show into the wildly successful satire program it is today. Once people had recovered from the initial shock, however, the rumors began to circulate about who would take his place. Numerous names were mentioned from John Oliver, the former correspondent and stand-in host who now has his own show on HBO, to Amy Poehler or Louis CK. Even a hologram Stewart was thrown out as a possibility because really, who else can fill those shoes? So when South African comedian Trevor Noah, three-time correspondent for the The Daily Show, was announced by Comedy Central to be the next host of their beloved program, there was a lot of head scratching and Googling to find out who this
guy is. Although Noah has established himself and his comedic brand internationally, he is relatively unknown in the United States. But that will all soon change. Noah’s stand-up is a study on people and the ways in which our society’s definitions of who we are drive our interactions. He has had a lot of chances to experience these perceptions, being the biracial son of an African mother and a German-Swiss father in a time and place where that union was illegal. His writing is smart and his accents are on point as he draws the humor out of the familiar misunderstandings many of us have experienced in our melting-pot culture. But most poignantly, he hits on the importance of those misunderstandings in demonstrating the misconceptions that a lot of us have about the effects of ethnic labels and the continued presence of racism in our country.
Being from another country, Noah is able to bring an outsider view to our political and social scene. This can be a major advantage because as we have seen with Oliver before him, this allows him to make fun of all of us without any partisan interference. He can crack jokes about all types of people while still pointing out the really horrifying problems in our society. As we have seen from his brief stint on The Daily Show, Noah’s promotion will bring a wider view of world politics to the comedic platform, raising awareness of the issues facing other societies as well as our own. His smart comedic style and unique history give him the tools to develop a program with a unifying awareness of the world.
THE STAGES OF FINDING A SUMMER INTERNSHIP AH, SUMMER! GREEN GRASS, WARM SUN, AND THE PANIC OF IMPENDING UNEMPLOYMENT… By Gina Van Thomme
(FALSE) HOPE
This past year has been extremely productive. I am no longer the inexperienced version of myself I was 12 months ago. I am a highly motivated college student and I’m about to take it to the next level. And we’re not talking about any of that “This internship is unpaid, but a really great learning experience AND we’ll even give you one credit for eight-hour days” stuff. Watch out, world. I’ve got my eyes on the prize… or at least minimum wage.
COCKINESS
Is my resume a Jonas Brother? Because it is looking fine. I hope the employer hangs on to my cover letter, because I could basically be canonized with that thing. I better up the data plan on my phone because I am
10 | APR 20 - MAY 3
going to be swamped with all the interview request calls and emails from these employers. Ugh, I’m already stressed over which offer to accept. Life is tough.
IMPATIENCE
My application has been in for two days and I haven’t heard a thing. If they wanted me, wouldn’t they have already called by now? I mean, I’m a hot catch—I’ve worked at University Dining Services for two years and can name the last 15 new releases on Netflix. What employer doesn’t want these skills?
PANIC
I haven’t received any calls in three days. How could my phone break down in this moment of dire need?
MAX SMITH
What if an employer is trying to call and schedule an interview right now? I can’t afford a new iPhone—I don’t even have a job! And now that my phone is broken, I’ll never even be able to set an interview up. This would happ—wait, did my phone just vibrate? It’s ringing! Wait, it’s not broken? It must be an empl… Oh hi, mom.
DESPERATION
Is that a posting for a night shift job in the Wendy’s drive-thru? Sign me up. Wait, does that requirement say I must be able to lift fifty pounds? LOL. I can’t lift fifty pounds… I’ve been sitting on my ass reading course packets for the last eight months. Must stay strong. Must keep searching. Must not ugly cry. Time to call the farmer I picked rocks for in high school begging for my job back.
THE WAKE VOICES
RANKING VERSUS REALITY
IT’S TIME TO START CELEBRATING ALL WOMEN AND THEIR ACCOMPLISHMENTS By Madison Bloomquist Men’s advice site AskMen recently published a new list called “Top 99 Outstanding Women 2015.” For once, a list by men that values women’s accomplishments, influence, and talents! I was pleased when I first read the list—after all, Emma Watson was chosen for the top slot, and I’m generally a big fan of anything she does. However, that was before I thought harder about the list itself. Nearly every woman mentioned was classically beautiful, which the AskMen writers make very clear. Apparently, it’s a big shock if a woman is gorgeous and smart—careful, she’s one to watch! And let’s think about the ranking system in general. It is 2015, and as a culture, we still pin women against each other for trivial reasons. What, exactly, makes Taylor Swift (number four) a fundamentally better person than Beyoncé (number seven)? Who gets to determine where they lie on this supposed factual continuum of female importance and accomplishment? Women—people in general, actually—are more than numbers on lists. We should be celebrated together, not in competition with one another. I refuse to rank people, but I also believe AskMen forgot a few important women on this “outstanding” list. To me, truly outstanding women are the ones who have changed my life—not through their concerts, movies, or sporting events. Here is my “Outstanding Women” list. It is not complete, it is not ranked, but it is a gesture intended to mend the larger issue at hand. My mother. If you’re lucky enough to have a mother like mine, she will always have your back when the unthinkable happens. My mom isn’t afraid to tell you how you really look, and she will love you unconditionally. Kim Kardashian can’t do any of that for me. My best friend. She tells me to get over something and move on when I need it, and will hold me silently while I cry when I want it. She is almost always game for another dance, another movie, and another pint of ice cream. She tells me I’m beautiful even though she remembers what I looked like circa 2007 with braces, over-gelled bangs, and striped polo shirts.
My grandmothers. One of them emails me daily before 7 a.m. and makes my roommates and I cookies nearly every time I visit her. Both of my grandmothers remind me a few times a week that I can succeed in anything I do. My professors. Everyone on this campus has probably had amazing female professors. I’ve learned from women who have done years of international research, written several books, and become heads of their departments. I look up to each and every one of them. My roommates. I give up sleep to talk to them until 2 a.m., make French toast for dinner with them, and excitedly wait for them to come home so I can tell them about my day and hear about theirs. We have celebrated the good and mourned the bad together, and I can’t imagine living with anyone else. They have become my family here on campus, and I am thankful for them every day. My sister and sister-in-law. It might be cliché to say “sisters are built-in friends for life,” but to an extent, it is true. I am fortunate to have wonderful memories of adventures with both of them. Because of them, I have been lucky enough to always have someone on my team. My nieces and cousins. No one sees the world quite like three-year-olds do, and sometimes I need to be reminded of the simpler things in life. Days spent eating macaroni and cheese, blowing bubbles, and running through playgrounds with them always make me feel better. They also hold me accountable—I want nothing more than to be a good role model for them. I want to be an outstanding woman in their lives, not just the other way around.
LIZZIE GONCHAROVA
There are hundreds of other women I could have mentioned. Coaches, advisors, mentors, friends, supervisors, family, and community members have all impacted my life. Let’s start celebrating average people and their accomplishments, not just movie stars and models. Let’s recognize that women don’t need to entertain or please us to change lives. Hey, AskMen, can you write an article about that?
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THE WAKE VOICES
SOCCER IN MINNESOTA A HISTORY AND A FUTURE CERA SYLAR
By Annalise Gall Soccer in the U.S. is rising. And with more teams, fans, and players than ever before, the latest expansion is coming right here to Minnesota. On March 25, Major League Soccer (MLS) announced that Minneapolis would host to the next expansion team, joining the ranks of Atlanta and Los Angeles towards the MLS’s goal of 24 clubs by 2020. The Minnesota United FC won the bid against the NFL’s Minnesota Vikings for the spot, making The United FC the 23rd club in the league. Long seen as a hub where the soccer could flourish, Minneapolis is happy to bring top-tier soccer to the city. With a diverse community and plenty of hip youngsters, we have the perfect market for the professional soccer franchise. In fact, Minnesota has always been welcoming to the game, with many soccer successes in our history. In 1976, the Minnesota Kicks entered the North American Soccer League (NASL), where they won their division 4 years in a row, helping
soccer achieve popularity in Minnesota. The Fort Lauderdale Strikers, another NASL team, played as the Minnesota Strikers in 1984, and continued to play on the indoor circuit for 4 more years. But the longest lasting professional team was the Minnesota Thunder, beginning play in 1990 and continuing until 2009, winning the United Soccer League title and regularly challenging in the Open Cup throughout their run. Of course, all of these ups have not come without some downs. The most recent of which is the debate over the need for an outdoor stadium for Minneapolis’ MLS team to host games. Just like every other professional sports team, the owners and investors of The United FC may ask the public for stadium funding. Lawmakers have already shown reluctance toward building a new stadium, with Gov.
Mark Dayton and legislatures on both sides of the political spectrum saying they will oppose public funding for another stadium. And after five new stadiums in 17 years, this fatigue is well understood. Luckily, it is unlikely that Minnesota MLS would have granted Minnesota the bid if its investors did not have the plans for a place to play. Besides yet another new stadium added to the skyline, how will soccer change our city? Well, it’s another professional sports team to cheer for. There is nothing more unifying than bonding with your buds over some beer and good old U.S. sports.
BASEBALL IS BACK THE FORECAST FOR ANOTHER FASCINATING BASEBALL SEASON By Carson Kaskel Major League Baseball is once again in full swing, and while it’s only April, it’s never too early to make World Series predictions. American League playoff prediction: Boston, Detroit, LA Angels, Cleveland, Seattle After a year of rebuilding and adding big names over the offseason, Big Papi’s Boston Red Sox will once again contend in the east. And with the sweet swing of Chris Davis, the Baltimore Orioles could power their way back to October as well. The Los Angeles Angels look to take the west by storm with the best player in the universe, and last year’s MVP, Mike Trout. Seattle, with Robinson Cano, Nelson Cruz, and Felix Hernandez, is also in the mix for a playoff spot. The central is up for grabs; American League champs Kansas City will have the tough task of defending their title. Look for Miguel Cabrera and David Price to carry the Tigers deep into another pennant race.
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The scrappy Cleveland Indians, behind Cy Young winner Corey Kluber, will be a force to reckon with as well. And how about our Minnesota Twins? This year will be another rough one, but trust me when I say that the future is brighter than Torii Hunter’s smile.
MAX SMITH
has the Los Angeles Dodgers standing in their way. The defending World Champion San Francisco Giants are also in the fight, but it’s an odd-numbered year, so don’t expect much from them.
World Series prediction: Washington and Los Angeles National League playoff prediction: Washington, Pittsburgh, Los Angeles, San Diego, St. Louis The Washington Nationals with Bryce Harper, and a studlaced pitching staff will reign in the east. The National League central will once again be a hot prize. Andrew McCutchen and the Pittsburgh Pirates will again fight for October. As always, the St. Louis Cardinals will be right in the thick of things, and watch out for the Chicago Cubs as they slowly awaken from hibernation. The west will certainly be wild in 2015. The San Diego Padres have bulked up big time, adding Matt Kemp, Justin Upton, and James Shields. However, Clayton Kershaw’s paralyzing curveball
After many grueling hours of deliberation, I have predicted Washington vs. Los Angeles (American League) in the World Series. Washington’s pitching staff is deadly, and their offense will back them up well. Los Angeles has Mike Trout and Albert Pujols, plenty of offense to support even a mediocre pitching staff. World Series Champion: Washington Nationals I think Washington will win over Los Angeles. Pitching wins in the playoffs, and Washington’s rotation is perfect for the postseason. Even Mike Trout strikes out on occasion.
FROM TRAUMA TO ART
CENTER FOR HOLOCAUST AND GENOCIDE STUDIES’ PROGRAM “VOICE TO VISION” IN ITS 9TH INSTALLATION
Story and Photos by Olivia Novotny
THE WAKE FEATURE Inside a studio, a paintbrush sits anxiously atop a palette of paints. A man picks it up, only to set it back down. He takes a deep breath and tries it again, making a red streak on the canvas in front of him. Then another. He lets go, continuing to make streaks, larger each time. He switches colors, gaining confidence, and begins painting imagery that reflects his life experiences—a house, an eye, some flames. This man is Freddy Frisancho, a Peru-native who grew up in the slums. “Art asks the questions that people can’t,” David Feinberg, art professor at the University of Minnesota, said. Feinberg has been working for the University for 43 years. In 2002, he started a project called Voice to Vision—a collaborative research project put on by a team of professors, community members, and students that captures the experiences of genocide survivors of different parts of the world. Both the Center for Holocaust and Genocide Studies and the Department of Art at the University are heavily involved in Voice to Vision.
But Feinberg couldn’t take on what would later become Voice to Vision alone. He and Feinstein wanted people whose stories hadn’t yet been told.
eventually view the art.
“It is almost like a Rorschach test. We only ask them questions for more detail,” Feinberg said. “If we have Feinberg got word that two Holocaust survivors a problem with the composition of the piece, we need something deeper in their story to help us find a visual.” worked out at the same gym he did, and asked both men to take part in his project. The two men were not After its interested; one said he was never going to tell anyone completion, the art goes on display in galleries across his story. Six months later, Feinberg approached them the U.S. including ones at the University’s William again with no luck. After a full year, he inquired one Mitchell College of Law, the Florida Holocaust last time. Another “no” and Feinberg would drop the Museum, Clarke University, the Waterloo Museum project. But this time, the two were interested. of Art, the United States Embassy in Kinshasa, “It was a complete fluke. I was ready to give it up beDemocratic Republic of the Congo, and more. cause I had other projects to work on,” Feinberg said. As of 2015, Voice to Vision is in its ninth installation. Murray Brandys and Joe Grosnecht were the first A Slow Start two survivors featured in the newly formed Voice to Vision. It turns out two days prior to Feinberg asking At just 3 years old, Feinberg had dreams of writing a for their participation the final time, Brandys had book about a police boat and a pirate ship. Much later, spoken to his nephew about his time in the concenhe realized the dream encapsulated the concept of tration camp. His nephew insisted he tell somebody good and evil. else about his story, too, so Brandys decided to give Feinberg’s project a whirl. At 11, Feinberg lived in Brooklyn and met many The first installation took a year and a half to complete, but was worth every minute, according to Feinberg. The project expanded not only to Holocaust survivors, but also to survivors of any genocide. Through the Center for Holocaust and Genocide Studies, Feinberg gathered interested parties from all over the world; photographers, videographers, artists, and students came out of the woodwork to join the Voice to Vision mission. Fast forward to 2010—current Associate Director of Voice to Vision, Beth Andrews, took a painting class from Feinberg at the University. One day in class, Feinberg showed a documentary that featured Voice to Vision. “I thought, ‘I had got to be involved in this,’” Andrews said. “I really felt called to it.”
OLIVIA NOVOTNY
Survivors from Rwanda, Tibet, Sudan, Bosnia, Armenia, Cambodia, Laos, and Holocaust survivors from Poland, Romania, France, Greece have participated in Voice to Vision. More recently, Voice to Vision has brought on activists from Colombia, Peru, Argentina, and Mexico. Voice to Vision captures traumatic experiences in a new, unconventional way: through art. Survivors are asked to express themselves creatively—whether it be painting, drawing, or creating collages. Artistic stories flow naturally from there. The Voice to Vision team guides survivors through the compositional process of creating art. Through this, survivors gain the comfort needed to share experiences with the team, and in turn, those who
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Andrews had prior experience working with marginalized people. After graduating from the University’s law school in 1981, Andrews gave legal assistance to military personnel, worked as a spiritual mentor to homeless people, and taught a forgiveness workshop to imprisoned women.
children of Holocaust survivors. He remembers the children mocking their parents’ accents, making fun of them for not being American. But Feinberg viewed Andrews took up painting while on a silent retreat. their parents as true heroes, and thought the children’s When she heard about Feinberg’s project, she felt that behavior was disrespectful. everything in her life came together. Years later in 2002, Feinberg worked with World War II imagery to create art. Feinberg then wanted to work “[Voice to Vision] is a rewarding experience because I with Holocaust survivors, so he reached out to the can use all my skills,” Andrews said. “It’s a University’s Center for Holocaust and Genocide life’s work in a lot of ways. And I love it because we Studies. He went straight for the center’s director— have so much fun. It may sound odd, but we have a lot Steve Feinstein. of fun when we talk to people about their experiences. It’s a real privilege.” “Most people say ‘Okay, you should write out a plan and we’ll review it and get back to you.’ But [Feinstein], on the phone, said ‘Let’s do it.’ Right away. Immediately.
THE WAKE FEATURE How Pieces Come to Life Voice to Vision leaders Feinberg and Andrews have a theory they call “artistic DNA.” According to the theory, everyone possesses their own unique artistic DNA based on their life experiences. What a survivor creates—that’s their artistic DNA. The Voice to Vision team puts these pieces of artistic DNA together, creating a finished piece of art. “We look for visual dead spots where the piece isn’t working, and we find a solution for it that brings the work up to a level we couldn’t have predicted,” Feinberg said. The team aims to unlock the personal expression—the meaning—hidden within artistic DNA. People are more interested in personal experience than historical information. It’s the “personal stuff” that is relatable and engaging.
Voice to Vision. Christenson, the Chief Medical Officer of Boynton Health Services and President of the Society for the Arts in Healthcare, had heard of Voice to Vision before, but never experienced it in person until a direct invitation from Feinberg. Christenson has since added his own imagery to Voice to Vision pieces. “Participation introduced me to the specifics of the artistic approach and social interactions, as well as the benefits of the approach that only interactions with others and the artwork could do,” he said. “It revealed how the artwork can serve as a process to discuss uncomfortable topics and empathize with other participants.” Now, Christenson is looking into using Voice to Vision’s work in stress management at Boynton. Although it’s only in its beginning stages, Christenson thinks that Voice to Vision has great potential there.
This same project continued into March of 2015, where most participants returned—plus three new ones— to create three collaborative paintings for the series. The new activists painted on canvases, while the returning activists drew imagery and symbols in response to prompts. When finished, the activists compared and added to each other’s pieces. Although nervous at first, the new participating activists quickly felt comfortable in their new artistic environment. “We create an atmosphere where people feel comfortable and want to communicate with us. We never ask them questions that a historian would ask them,” Feinberg said. “We ask them to help solve visual problems in the art piece, and in return we get a deeper version of their life story as an answer.”
Art as Therapy Sharing stories provides a therapy of sorts for the survivors, an outlet for reflecting on their life and experiences.
“[Our artwork] is personal first, then its historical,” “The creative process, acceptance by others, sense of Feinberg said. “You want people to be moved emotionally so that they become an extension of the story,” achievement, distraction from the usual worries of “Any time you bring a story to light, it is changed,” Anlife, practice of empathy, and social engagement are drews said. “It is spoken; it is shared; it is not hidden all positive benefits of participation,” said ChristenFeinberg’s ultimate goal is to create and spread art in darkness anymore. Other people can share your son. “Viewing the art demonstrates the benefits of art that has what he calls “presence.” According to the sorrow and help lessen it. I believe that the sharing of participation and also can build empathy as stories are team, presence is what’s achieved when art gives it makes a huge difference for survivors.” revealed. The work also suggests hope and resilience emotional responses to viewers. in the face of great adversity.” “You have to be forced into creativity,” Feinberg said. “Most kids fall asleep [when reading history books] and “That is when the deeper imagery comes out.” ask, ‘Why do we read this?’” Feinberg said. “I think you The Ninth Project have to engage people emotionally.” And the deeper imagery keeps coming out. Freddy FriVoice to Vision 9 began last spring (2014) and is by far sancho, a Peru-native, grew up in the slums and now College history professors use this same tactic, accord- the most collaborative installation to date. works to help others out of the same dire situations he ing to Feinberg. The emotional connection is primary, Unlike other installations where activists created was once in. His time at Voice to Vision was, like most he said, with the historical information being secondary. their own independent pieces—Voices to Vision 9 is participating survivors, his first time holding a paint“Once the audience [has an] emotional response, they’ll very collaborative. Beginning in March of 2014, eight brush. Frisancho’s Voice to Vision painting represents go to the Internet and learn more themselves.” activists worked with the Voice to Vision team to create his life, he said. “[You can see it] in these dark colors. a piece called “Seven Activists and a Brother.” Together, Luckily there is some white, some hope.” The viewer has to be willing to make the connection, the team created one three-dimensional, symbolic piece though. One must stand in front of artwork with In the center of Frisancho’s piece is a small painting that represents all of their experiences combined. an open mind and open heart in order to make a of a house, and next it, a tree. “In this world, I always connection, according to Andrews. have my house in mind,” he said. “And the tree—the roots hold the secrets of Finding a Home at Boynton the ancestors.” Experiencing art on tough subjects Another Peruvian, Luis-Ramos Garcia, such as genocide isn’t always easy. contributes drawings to Voice to Vision. Although Voice to Vision hopes that anyone and everyone can be in“Survivors tend to keep their memospired by their art, some are turned ries to themselves,” he said. “Voice to off by it. Vision provides elements to recall entire “We get that all the time,” Feinberg episodes of their lives. It is good both said. “They say, ‘It’s for other peofor survivors and the general public to ple, not me.’ People think [our art] participate in the rewriting of history in is too negative for them. But when order to learn from their own mistakes.” they find out [more] about it, it’s not negative. It’s like, super positive. We are trying to change the world, one person at a time.” Dr. Gary Christenson is one who isn’t turned off by the heavy art in OLIVIA NOVOTNY
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THE WAKE Q&A
Q&A: ALI JAAFAR OF ECSTATTIC STUDIO
A LIGHT IN THE ATTIC By Sara Glesne
Stray rays of sun seep in through a skylight, spreading across a sloped-ceiling attic of oddball amps, a shelf of guitar pedals, and a man in thick-lensed glasses sitting behind a mixing board. That man, Ali Jaafar, is the driving force behind Ecstattic Studio, a DIY recording studio with an artist-first ethos. While the uptown Minneapolis attic is small, the list of bands recorded and mixed here is only growing. The Wake talked with Jaafar about his collection of weird equipment and what it’s like to turn down intern offers. THE WAKE: How did Ecstattic Studio get started? JAAFAR: Basically I’ve been recording music since forever. A different group of musicians lived in this house before. I know Andrew from the band Crimes, and then some of the dudes from Sleeping in the Aviary lived here. I actually moved some of my stuff in before I lived here just because I needed a place to store gear. So I would do a bit of practicing and recording up here and then when they moved out, I totally pounced on it and pretty much immediately started doing recording up here. It was probably three or four years ago. THE WAKE: The website says the “mics, keyboards, amps, guitars, and noise-makers,” are a “carefully curated collection.” Any particular gems or stories behind the collection? JAAFAR: I constantly have to explain to people who come up here that it’s just my stuff, and so it changes all the time. And sometimes it’s not my stuff, and it’s just here for a while and people get kind of confused about what is up here. But it always happens to be interesting and weird. Like, there’s that thing there that looks like a VCR but it’s basically just a delay pedal and it’s just gigantic and awful, and that’s great. (Laughs) There’s that thing over there. It’s basically just a tiny, air-powered organ. I haven’t recorded a steam punk band yet, but whenever that happens, I’m so ready. It’s just my stuff, and that’s my flowery way of saying “Hey, I have a lot of stuff. It’s all of high quality. It’s totally usable. Everything sounds good.” But it’s also just weird stuff people leave here for awhile or stuff that I find at garage sales.
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AMY VERRANDO
THE WAKE: You say you record hi-fi and lo-fi, weird and not weird. This seems true because the recordings are a spectrum from folkier to heavier and punk. So, if there’s so much range, what brings them all together to you? JAAFAR: I think mostly it’s an ethos. On my end it’s an ethos of just being artist-first. I want people to get the record that they want to make and be happy with what they’re making. And I think on the artists’ side it’s maybe something similar where they want something that sounds good and represents them, but that is a bit freer from some of the conventions. That’s something that I’ve talked to a lot of bands about before or while we’re recording. I don’t want to be the guy who says no to a band over something creative. I would never want to say, “That’s not the right creative decision,” because I’m not the band. If they want to we can spend all day recording feedback. It’s fine if that’s what you want to do.
THE WAKE: You’ve done trades for gear for recording in the past. Do you still do that sort of thing? JAAFAR: Only in very select situations. I always tell bands we can work something out. I’ve done records in hours. I’ve done full albums in like a day and a half—just crazy shit. I don’t do as much gear trading anymore because you just get instant regret, like, “Shit…I should have just gotten paid.” Except in a very few select situations, where it’s something that actually has inherent value to me. THE WAKE: This year you put out two of the “Make a Star” compilations. Tell me about those. JAAFAR: Those are the fourth and fifth compilations we’ve done. We did a show at the Turf Club for the compilation before those ones called Ecstattic. It was a big production. I suddenly realized that a year had passed and I hadn’t put out another compilation. So I
THE WAKE Q&A name? I love coming up with fake band names. Any opportunity I have to throw one out there. Lately I’ve been obsessed with starting a kind of amphetamine, reptile-sounding noise rock band that’s just really bad called “Rip Witch.” That’s my current fake band name obsession. It’s perfect for that. Because it just sounds like a sandwich you’d get from a gas station, but it also just sounds really aggressive—synergy, you know. THE WAKE: Do you have any particularly memorable recording sessions you’ve done in the attic?
AMY VERRANDO
went back and trawled through all the stuff that I had finished and a few things I was still working on and put together these compilations. I decided to release it as two parts. The second one especially is a lot of stuff that I’m still working on that people maybe didn’t even know existed. Like a couple of solo records that people hadn’t told anybody in town about. People were really generous and let me use their music and so that comp is really, really cool. I’m really proud of that. It’s really weird which is what I wanted because I think maybe I was getting a little pigeonholed as the garage rock reverb-y guy which is not who I am as a person. It opens with this like really downbeat jazz song and then it just goes off the rails from there. It’s got a fair amount of people who aren’t from Minnesota, which I like too. THE WAKE: What’s your personal preference: tapes, vinyl, CDs, MP3s? JAAFAR: Vinyl and tapes are my favorite. Those are the things I listen to most when I’m at home, but I have a car that just has a headphone jack in, so I listen to stuff on my phone. Definitely as far as owning something it’s generally going to be vinyl and tape. And tapes are awesome, especially if you’re a local band and you’re not doing a lot of touring, or even if you are and you just don’t have a lot of money—you just can’t beat tapes. That’s why I think the label started just because I was telling everyone, “Just do tapes, man. Do tapes.” THE WAKE: So you’re the only engineer or do you get help? JAAFAR: For a while my friend Cole, who’s also in
Hollow Boys with me, he was like my intern. Haven’t done that for quite a while though. That was maybe two summers ago. Generally though, it’s just me. I’m the only employee. Monica, who’s also in Hollow Boys, helps me assemble tapes and she’s designed some. It’s hard to coordinate with other people. My schedule’s really weird. I sometimes get people from recording schools asking if they can be my intern and it’s like, well, probably not…
JAAFAR: I did a record for a band called Big Waves of Pretty where they just lived here while they did it. One of them was from Wisconsin and the other is from Tennessee. And they just kind of meet up to go on tour and record. They did this huge tour, and then at the end of it, came here and they just lived up here and it was the middle of winter but one of them insisted on sleeping up here. And in the winter, you have to run multiple heaters for a while to warm it up before you can really come up here, so I wouldn’t even set foot up here until the heaters have been on for an hour, but he was sleeping up here, with one heater. He was like, “It’s fine. I’m a farm boy.” This was supposed to be two days, but it turned into seven. Which was fine because we just needed more time to work on the record. Every morning we’d have to come up and move Spencer’s bed and put away Spencer’s clothes. (Laughs) Two recent compilations from Ecstattic Studio showcasing range from Nelson Devereaux’s slow-building jazz to Strange’s ripping riffs can be downloaded for free at ecstatticstudio.bandcamp.com.
THE WAKE: Any recordings in the works or scheduled that you’re excited for? JAAFAR: Yeah, I have a lot of stuff coming up. I’m really excited to record Livid, a newish doom metal band. They’re really great and I’ve been bugging them to record since they started. Going to record a few really new bands, like people who don’t really have anything out yet, so that’s always fun. I have a horrible memory. I have a planner and my email that I’m glued to. But that’s what’s happening this week!
THE WAKE: Would you ever consider expanding out of the attic, and would you have to change your name if you did? JAAFAR: Eventually it will be in a different space because we want to buy a house and set up a new studio in there. I think I already decided that I won’t change the name. I’ll just get a funny logo that explains it and that’ll be good. I hate coming up with names for stuff. I really do. Except for songs. Songs are fun to title and everything else is just… Coming up with a band name? Have you ever come up with a band
AMY VERRANDO
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THE WAKE SOUND & VISION
THE X-FILES GET MINISERIES REVIVAL FANS ARE STILL HUNTING FOR THE TRUTH By Abby Richardson
Thirteen years after its final episode aired, Fox officially gave the green light to a six episode miniseries revival of the 1990s cult sci-fi phenomenon “The X-Files.” This news has left avid truth-seekers and fanfic writers feverishly predicting, hoping, and praying to some sort of alien god that it won’t be as bad as the 2008 movie “The X-Files: I Want To Believe.” With two feature films and over 200 episodes under its belt, X-Files more than overstayed its welcome by season nine, but with a recent surge in popularity (thanks, Netflix!) viewers are sure that the goddamn truth is still out there. What can we expect from the new episodes? Of course Gillian Anderson and David Duchovny are set to return as FBI Agents Dana Scully and Fox Mulder. While monsters are cool, the two’s relationship is X-Files’ heart and soul. Creator Chris Carter also confirmed that FBI Assistant Director Walter Skinner (Mitch Pileggi) and the series’ shadowy antagonist the Cigarette Smoking Man (William B. Davis) will be back. No word yet on agents Monica Reyes and John Doggett, the irrelevant replacements brought in for the hard-to-watch ninth season.
Carter also confirmed that the miniseries will be a mix of both “monster-of-the-week” episodes (i.e. Flukeman and Tooms) as well as mythology episodes, exploring the government conspiracy behind the existence of extraterrestrials. Many of the original writers are coming back, but “Breaking Bad’s” Vince Gilligan, who got his start writing some of X-Files’ best episodes, has been quiet so far.
Writers will also have to explain the discrepancy between its two stars’ hotness. While Anderson looks perhaps even better than she did in the ’90s, old man Duchovny has become a saggy shadow of his former, youthful self. This will probably be attributed to Mulder’s constant worrying about aliens while on his everlasting search for “the truth.”
What truths do writers still need to explain? As the revival will take place in what is likely 2015 or 2016, there’s a lot of ground to cover here: Did the aliens actually colonize the earth in 2012? Will Scully and Mulder carry iPhones or Androids? Where is their weird alien child William now? Will the original title sequence be kept? Will the lovable Lone Gunmen rise from the dead? How has Cancer Man not died from chain-smoking yet? Will Edward Snowden be mentioned? ISIS? And, you know, what ARE Scully and Mulder? Like, romantically? FLICKR.COM STALLIO
THE MEDS I’M ON By Breck Hickman
BRECK HICKMAN
While drugs, mental illness, and self-medication aren’t the most pleasant subjects to discuss or deal with, Minneapolis’ Instinct Art Gallery’s latest exhibition brings these topics to light using a perfect mix of somber humor and deadpan seriousness. The artists lay everything out on the table with their work, from deep introspective comments on their struggles with depression and anxiety to sardonic comments on failed relationships.
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While displays fill the gallery, the hectic work of artist Sammy thrashLife steals the show. When walking into the gallery, the first image you see straight ahead on the back wall is a jumbled mess of color captioned with a commanding “HAVE SEX WITH AND/OR BUY ART FROM ME.” After a light giggle from this order, you make your way to the piece and start reading the lighthearted fine print that lets you know that the aforementioned options are Sammy’s only worth in this life. The dark, humorous piece, like many others he has on display, takes you on an introspective journey that leads you through Sammy’s struggles with drugs, women, and depression—all of course presented with a special kind of dark humor that elicits simultaneous sadness and happiness. The piece features vibrant colors and characters that seem lifted from some darker, more
anxious version of ‘Adventure Time.’ All of Sammy’s pieces in the show have this same laughable-but-sad style that creates a special kind of closeness between him and viewers. I wouldn’t be surprised if I now know more about his life than some of his friends do. Other notable pieces include syringes filled with money (titled “Not Getting Better”) to old logs full of rusty nails. Every piece in the show enters into the discussion on drugs, mental illness, or self-medicating said illnesses with said drugs. “The Meds I’m On” leaves viewers with a somber happiness. It provides a certain comfort in teaching you that this shit happens, but you will find a way to either deal with it or to defeat it. I would give this show 9/10 dissolvable gelatin capsules and would strongly recommend going. It runs through May 9.
I wouldn’t be surprised if I now know more about his life than some of his friends do.
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WHEN THE HOMEWORK IS DONE UPCOMING TWIN CITIES FESTIVALS AND GATHERINGS By Lianna Matt You may be downtrodden by homework and studying right now, but remember, summer is coming, and along with it a lineup of festivals, gatherings, and parades are coming your way. Some are even sneaking in before school is done… so get ready! Minnesota Horse Expo – April 24-26 Just because you live in the cities doesn’t mean you have to squash your inner horse lover. The weekend at the State Fairgrounds is packed full of panels, horse rides, and demonstrations, and buildings are populated by gorgeous horses and vendors. Watch a live game of polo or have a more relaxing time with some donkeys at the round pen. No matter what, though, you have to go to the rodeos that cap off each night. Not a horse owner? If you want an expo celebrating your personal furry friend, try the Convention Center’s Minnesota Pet Expo on June 13. AniMinneapolis – May 8-10 Fall in love with a community whose interests range from the fluffiest manga to the darkest anime at the Hyatt Regency hotel. You’ll definitely feel welcome at this panelfilled weekend. Learn the history of Japanese swords from Samurai Dan or get some hilarious dating advice from Dante of Devil May Cry. If you’re feeling particularly
confident in your cosplay, go to the ball early to learn how to waltz. It may help you find a friend for the nightly raves. If that weekend doesn’t work with your schedule, the Twin Cities have a slew of other comic, science fiction, and anime meet-ups like Comic Con (May 1-3), MSP Comic Con (May 16-17), CONverge (July 2-5), and Autoptic (Aug. 8-9). Edina Art Fair – June 5-7 Wander around this massive outdoor art fair on 50th and France and take in handmade ceramics, photography, and jewelry from local and nearby vendors. From fantastical scenes to abstract paintings, enjoy the incredible range of talent. Art events exist all summer for all types of art-lovers! Here are a few more: Northern Spark (June 13), Fringe Festival (July 30 – Aug. 9), Uptown Art Fair (Aug. 7-8). Twin Cities Pride – June 25-28 More than just spandex and glitter, this festival and parade celebrates the Twin Cities GLBTQ community. Connect, learn, and of course, party with members of this supportive and proud community throughout the exuberant weekend. National Senior Games – July 3-16 You’re in college; you’re feeling young and invincible.
As you get older, that feeling doesn’t have to go away. Watch athletes aged 50 and over duke it out at the National Senior Games in more than 20 events like racquetball, track and field, and, yes, shuffleboard. Dragon Festival – July 11-12 Get out of the bubble of American life and spend a weekend learning more about Asian Pacific cultures on the banks of Lake Phalen. Walk around to all of the booths, enjoy martial arts demonstrations and cultural performances, and perhaps most importantly, catch the dragon boat races. Get a taste of other Asian cultures and sports at the All American Karate Festival (April 25-26) and the Japanese Light Festival (Aug. 23). Basilica Block Party – July The Basilica Block Party remains shrouded in mystery about its music lineup, but with past headliners like Ingrid Michaelson, Panic! at the Disco, and Eric Hutchinson, make sure to at least scope out one of the Twin Cities’ premier annual music events at St. Mary’s Basilica. Official dates announced April 23! Minneapolis Aquatennial – July These fantastic days of summer are typically the third week of July, but official dates are still to come. But if this year’s Aquatennial is anything like last year, there’s going to be a sand castle building contest, the biggest fireworks of the summer reflecting off skyscrapers downtown, the River Rats, and appearances by our very own Aquatennial royalty. Don’t forget about your local city festivals as well; they’ll treat you to mini fair rides, local bands for dancing, a parade, and if you’re lucky, a petting zoo. Renaissance Festival – Aug. 22-Oct. 4 While the site’s map might be confusing, take the geographical chaos as a hint about how many entertainers, merchants, and even mermaids will be at the fest. Last year, the Danger Committee owned Baker’s Stage with knife-throwing, juggling, and stunt shows that left the audience gasping out of astonishment and, later, gasping out of laughter from their jokes. Just go. If nothing else, “like” Tuey the Juggler on Facebook so he can beat the glittery fairy Twiggy. If you’re particularly excited for the Renaissance’s Highland Fling theme weekend (among others), check out the Minnesota Scottish Fair & Highland Games on July 18 to further whet your appetite.
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ERAS OF AN ARTIST: SUFJAN STEVENS
THE MUSIC MISFIT RELEASES NEW ALBUM “CARRIE & LOWELL” By Shawnna Stennes
Sufjan Stevens has toured as a Christmas unicorn, a cheerleader, a Native American covered in neon post its, and most notoriously, as a man with remarkable wingspan surrounded by a winged orchestra he named the “Butterfly Kite Brigade.” At 39, the singer-songwriter with a penchant for tossing tinsel over his sensitive folk songs released his 12th album “Carrie & Lowell,” in reaction to the death of his mother Carrie and in reflection on his childhood and his stepfather Lowell. Given Stevens’ history of sleeplessly elaborate concept albums and composing on up to 18 different instruments, “Carrie & Lowell” is surprisingly simple. The album is graceful and human, beautiful like an old black and white photograph, but it’s not the radically rich art usually characteristic of Stevens. Although he was only seriously trained on oboe and claims he had “serious intonation problems” until he was 20, Stevens’ albums unveil a man who knows what he’s doing, especially considering his instrumental inventory: vocals, piano, guitar, banjo, vibraphone,
bass, saxophone, English horn, accordion, glockenspiel, theremin, recorder, and various percussion. Back in 2000, with the release of his debut album “A Sun Came,” Stevens managed to play each of these instruments as well as meddle with digital samples of an unknown high-pitched voice sharing strange thoughts. The next year, he released his first concept album “Year of the Rabbit,” based on the animals of the Chinese zodiac, which was followed by “Michigan,” his first attempt at his infamous 50 States Project, a (now abandoned) project to create an album for every state in the country. However, his second contribution, “Illinois,” was the album that debuted the spotlight on Stevens, paved by the success of the ballad “Chicago” which was also featured on the indie flick “Little Miss Sunshine” soundtrack. To further illustrate the prolific list of places Stevens has taken his music, his banjo-dominated album “Seven Swans” is unforgettable with its honest approach to religious themes and biblical characters. His classical
orchestral soundtrack that explores the BrooklynQueens Expressway (“The BQE”) is also memorable. He composed, conducted, and mixed this himself. Ignoring the musical history of Stevens, “Carrie & Lowell” is without a doubt stunning. It’s the collection of whispered melodies you want in your ears during an afternoon nap with the sun on your sheets. Yet the album seems ordinary standing beside the musical oddities of “The BQE” soundtrack and the electronica of “The Age of Adz.” But perhaps “Carrie & Lowell” is an indirect defense of the strength of Sufjan Stevens without the need for ornaments or costuming. With a track record of eccentric live performances, I am curious to see if Sufjan Stevens’ “Carrie & Lowell” tour will be a reflection of his current tranquil musical mood; perhaps his next tour character will simply be “a thoughtful man.”
GREEN DAY
PUFF, PUFF, AND PASS THE TIME WITH THESE 4/20 FRIENDLY MUSIC VIDEOS By Carter Jones Phoenix “Trying to be Cool” The video was shot in one take. It’s like an OK Go video with considerably fewer treadmills.
floral shirts and matching fedoras. Back on the spaceship, they experiment with primitive green screen technology.
Hot Chip “One Life Stand” The band dances around a mirrored sphere suspended and spun over a camera to create that dizzying effect we all love.
Broken Bells “After the Disco” James Mercer and Danger Mouse go through a frustratingly entertaining infinite loop that will make your head hurt.
Daft Punk “Instant Crush” ft. Julian Casablancas Two mannequins at a natural history museum lock eyes and fall in love but can’t be reunited until their tragic demise. All while The Strokes’ front man jams out on a podium under a spotlight. Orange Juice “Rip it Up” The video opens with the band grooving on a spaceship, when suddenly a portal opens and they’re taken to early ‘80s London. They’re then forced to blend in, wearing
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Arctic Monkeys “Do I Wanna Know?” Sound waves that move in sync with the music turn into line drawn animations with an unexpectedly violent finale. Tame Impala “Feels Like We Only Going Backwards” This trance-inducing endless loop of color and animation will have you stroking the furry wall. The White Stripes “Fell in Love with a Girl” Stop motion and Legos were combined perfectly in this video.
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Allan Kingdom “GOAT” Before Allan Kingdom was dropping tracks with Kanye he was making weird ass music videos in his bedroom, he dances and wanders through a myriad of bizarre scenes with the help of a green screen. My Morning Jacket “Outta My System” Jim James jumps into a glowing hole in the desert and is turned into an animated Cyclops by the evil wizard Zach Galifianakis. James then hot-wires a space ship and traverses through a psychedelic underworld in search of his missing eyeball.
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THE COMEDIAN OUT OF COMEDY OUR FAVORITE FUNNY GUYS IN THEIR MOST SERIOUS ROLES By Lauren Cutshall In television and film, actors and actresses rarely cross the line between comedy and drama. Yet when they do, they earn the respect of their peers and fans alike. Oftentimes, it is these roles that earn them an Academy Award nomination or win. Here’s some of our favorite comedians in their best dramatic roles. Jim Carrey in “Eternal Sunshine For the Spotless Mind” In his comedies, Carrey is talented enough to go from zero to sixty in about two seconds. So when he takes on roles like Joel Barish in “Eternal Sunshine” and lets his character unfold and develop throughout the movie, it’s a refreshing and appreciated break in the madness. After all of his comedies, we know full well Carrey’s silly faces and larger than life presence—and we can only take so much before getting exhausted. As a troubled man looking to escape from his own memories, Carrey proves himself to be worthy of his serious roles.
Life Magazine employee in “The Secret Life of Walter Mitty,” it’s hard to go back. Stiller poises himself well in as the wannabe-turned-true traveler in the film, giving the character a depth that makes you want to do more than just like his profile on eHarmony. The scruffyfaced adventurer Walter Mitty also contributed to the collective epiphany, “Whoa, Ben Stiller is actually attractive.” Lastly, Stiller also gets bonus points for directing the drama himself. Bill Murray in “Lost in Translation”* We all know we can count on Bill Murray appearing and reappearing in “Groundhog Day” and pretty much every Wes Anderson film, but his appearance in Sofia Coppola’s melancholic “Lost in Translation”
The film, which had director Jason Reitman’s trademark of a depressing look at how modern day society works, stretched Sandler to be an unhappy husband and father, looking for some excitement in his life, and stretched the audience to recognize him i n a new light. Robin Williams in “Good Will Hunting,”* “Dead Poet’s Society,”* “One Hour Photo” Perhaps most well known in the category of the comedian-turned-dramatic actor is Robin Williams. With a resume including adventure films like “Jumanji,” and classic family favorites like “Mrs. Doubtfire” and “Flubber,” Williams was a man who captivated attention with perfect comedic timing and a larger
Steve Carell in “Foxcatcher”* Whether it’s comedy or drama, Carell’s deadpan stares seem to work for him no matter what. Purely was a bit of a surprise. Even more surprising was than life personality. Yet Williams could also turn at face value, Carell’s roles are fairly similar. Just Murray’s exquisite ability to play the relatable around and play a chilling role. In “One Hour Photo,” look at “Foxcatcher” and “The Office”—both roles character of the charismatic, slightly discontented Williams plays a man obsessed with a family he require Carell to be a questionable leader completely businessman. Contrary to many of his other films, doesn’t know. In “Dead Poet’s Society,” he plays an devoid of humility. And again, when you compare the “Lost in Translation” gave Murray the opportunity to entire generation’s favorite influential teacher. And animated comedy “Despicable Me” and the “dramedie” leave a scene silent, filling the space not with jokes, in “Good Will Hunting,” Williams takes the role of the of “Dan In Real Life,” Carell is a father figure raising but emotion. therapist kind enough to give Matt Damon the wake three young girls on his own. His acting, however, sets up call he deserved. Whether encouraging students the roles far apart, changing the entire course and Adam Sandler in “Men, Women, & Children” to seize the day, or “go see about a girl,” Williams mood of the film. There’s a reason we love Michael Ask anyone about Adam Sandler, and they’ll probably consistently impressed audiences with influential and Scott and the second-hand embarrassment he brings mention “Saturday Night Live,” or maybe memorable dramatic acting. with him, and there’s a reason we’re chilled by Carell’s “Happy Gilmore.” But when we got our first taste of cold performance in “Foxcatcher.” serious Sandler in 2004’s “Spanglish” and he had proven *These films earned these actors their Oscar nominations for Best Actor
Ben Stiller in “The Secret Life of Walter Mitty” It’s hard not to love the Blue Steel of “Zoolander” or the awkwardness of “Meet the Parents.” But once you see Ben Stiller as the hardworking, endearing
himself as more than just the “Chaunkah Song” guy, we wanted more. The latest of Sandler’s dramatic-film achievements was playing opposite indie-film actress Rosemarie Dewitt in “Men, Women, & Children.”
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ROASTING THE BIEBS
THE LATEST ON THIS COMEDY CENTRAL PEDESTAL By Karl Witkowiak
Everyone’s favorite Canadian pop star turned widely despised, spoiled rich kid Justin Bieber got roasted in late March on Comedy Central. Led by host Kevin Hart, the guests at the shooting range included Snoop Dogg, Ludacris, Shaquille O’Neal, and, of course, Jeff Ross. Even Martha Stewart and Will Ferrell (as Ron Burgundy) surprised viewers with some pretty good cracks at Bieber. With plenty of great jabs at the Canadian pop star, it is nigh impossible to give you all of the great jokes. Shaquille O’Neal brought some fire to his usually cuddly persona, like when he said, “Last year, you were ranked the fifth most hated person of all time. Kim Jong-Un didn’t rank that high, and he uses your music to torture people.” Typical of roasts, the roasters take jabs at other roasters on the roster, like Pete Davidson of SNL fame taking a jab at Hannibal Buress about the Bill Cosby controversy, “Bill Cosby hurt those women without ever caring about the consequences… that Hannibal Buress would become famous.” Ludacris made a crack at fellow rapper and roaster Snoop Dogg: “There are not a lot of black millionaires; there’s Dr. Dre, and the guy that sells you weed.” Luda also gave a double jab at both Bieber and Kevin Hart: “Justin wants to be black so bad, he’s actually seen Kevin Hart’s movies” But all that didn’t beat Natasha Leggero’s quadruple take on the attendees: “Kevin Hart has a Napoleon complex. Kevin, Napoleon was the leader of France. Ludacris, France is in Europe. Justin, Europe’s a continent. Shaq, a continent’s not a free breakfast.” And this is only some of the good roast quips, so it’s definitely a good watch, especially for the highlights—the Natasha Leggero, Shaq, Ludacris, and Ron Burgundy’s segments. It was nice to see Bieber be such a good sport about the event. I think the next on the roast post should be Alec Baldwin or Iggy Azalea. Baldwin brings about a smug persona that could make a good target for a roast, similar to former roastee, James Franco. Azalea, on the other hand, could make for a great roast given her fake accent, inability to rap actual words, and rather insensitive remarks on Twitter.
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JAMIE XX’S “IN COLOUR” (PREVIEW WHITE LABEL) By Alex Nelson If you’re like me, then you probably decided there wasn’t enough time in the day to immediately give Jamie xx’s new preview EP a listen when he released it ahead of his debut album “In Colour.” I’ll hand it to you; it’s hard to imagine that the skilled producer could single-handedly come up with anything that matched the strength of the two excellent records he released with his acclaimed band The xx. When you consider his incredible remix work, though, like what he did with Florence and the Machine’s “You’ve Got The Love” or Adele’s “Rolling in the Deep,” or any of his various reworkings of original xx tracks for that matter—it becomes evident that it’s beyond worth it to give the new tracks a few minutes of your day.
FATHER JOHN MISTY AT FIRST AVENUE COURTNEY BARNETT COURTNEYBARNETT.COM.AU
By Kate Doyle
After leaving Fleet Foxes, singer-songwriter Josh Tillman adopted his own outlook as a musician, which is as brilliant as it is sardonic. Still, his cynicism is comforting and self-aware. After playing solo in First Avenue’s mainroom in 2013, Tillman returned a changed man to that same stage. This March, Tillman left behind the solo guitar and microphone to express his love for his new bride by delivering the entirety of his 2015 album, “I Love You, Honeybear.” A heart-shaped neon sign reading “No Photography” was the backdrop of the stage Misty stepped onto, reflecting his opposition to the media-obsessed and his desire for a show without distractions. He opened with the title track “I Love You, Honeybear” in a dramatic, red ambiance, complemented by passionate dance moves and just the right amount of hip swaying that continued throughout the evening. While maintaining the same energy level throughout, Tillman performed the rest of the album and a few hits from his previous record, “Fear Fun.”
Be warned, because “Loud Places,” a cut from his debut solo album that features xx bandmate Romy Madley Croft, will sneak up on you to consume your life after just a few listens. It’s a mountainous builder that captures a tender vulnerability and cloaks it in a tight groove in the same way that a good xx song does. “I go to loud places to find someone to be quiet with,” Romy confides in a golden nugget of brilliance to open the song. Before long, a chorus of voices sings another striking poetic confession: “I feel music in your eyes.”
The relationship with the crowd was a recurring topic throughout the show. During the performance of the upbeat track “The Ideal Husband” and other moments of intensity, Tillman got down from the stage to make contact with those in the first few rows, and at one point requested the house lights be turned up to admire the crowd’s beauty, which left him almost speechless.
Two of the other songs on the four-track release, “Gosh” and “Girl,” also retain the sophisticated emotionality of the xx but meld it with the complex arrangements characteristic of someone like Arca’s unpredictable production. Luckily, it’s all so good that it’s possible to just close your eyes and pretend like Jamie’s solo stuff is simply new music from The xx.
Tillman’s performance exceeded expectations. His unfaltering, distinguished vocals and seamless choreography leaves those of us in Minneapolis more than excited for his next visit in May alongside the Alabama Shakes. As a show with grace and feel-good delivery, to say it was anything short of magnificent would be a crime.
“SOMETIMES I SIT AND THINK, AND SOMETIMES I JUST SIT” By Ryan Meaney Great writers do something powerful with their words; they create beauty out of the mundane. On her debut full-length album, Australian indie rocker Courtney Barnett does just that, offering her listeners a glimpse into the worlds she paints with her frank, and often poignant, words. Barnett’s monotone vocal delivery almost makes her seem satiric and disingenuous, but her words tell stories of youthful confusion and painful social interaction. The music itself churns along enthusiastically, often taking the forms of early ‘90s indie rock in the vein of Pavement or Guided by Voices. Given Barnett’s hefty wit and use of word play (her double EP was titled “The Double EP: A Sea of Split Peas”) it becomes difficult to know whether to laugh or cry at her candor. Each song has a specific sound and voice that it conveys, but all contain Barnett’s false sense of selfhubris that makes her so endearing. On the track “Depreston,” she tells the story of a couple struggling to find a place to live while mulling over the finality of such a purchase: “And I can’t think of floorboards anymore / whether the front room faces south or north / And I wonder what she bought it for.” On “Elevator Operator,” Barnett celebrates the quarter life crisis to perfection: “Oliver Paul, twenty years old / Thick head of hair / Worries he’s going bald.” Barnett’s muse is anybody who has ever questioned their place in the world, anyone who has ever had an awkward social interaction, and anyone who sat up late at night wondering what spam actually is or how they will die. So basically—everyone.
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