minor setback 3

I have smart friends. They are fantastic, terrific, wonderful and awesome, but they are setting me back this weekend in my 100 in 6 quest because two happen to be graduating. Meghan is graduating from nursing school and Taylor is graduating from medical school. This is all happening in Boston, so I am shipping up to the Bean for the weekend and missing out on some event opportunities. I will have to buckle down next week and make up a few. Cheers.

23 - Mark Helias

Mark Helias
Barbes
28 May 2008, 2030

Mark Helias plays the upright bass. He plays it like it is an old friend. He keeps his eyes closed tightly and leans into his instrument like he has something that he really has to tell his bass without anyone else hearing. Although he has a stand with sheet music on it, he hardly ever glimpses at it. He just keeps his eyes shut and feels his way around his old friend, the upright bass.

I have never seen a solo bass player before tonight. I couldn't pull my eyes away from Mark's fingers. They moved so quickly and deftly up and down the neck and along the strings. I really had no idea that a bass could make all of the sounds that Mr. Helias tickled out of it tonight. It was an inspiring show set in the back room of Barbes in Park Slope. Barbes has a lovely selection of single malt scotches. It is no St. Andrews, but at least there is more to choose from than just the Glens. Cozy too.

100 in 6 budget: $226

The F-holes as seen on an upright bass done Man Ray style.

Le Violon d'Ingres - Man Ray (1924)

minor setback 2

It is Memorial Day weekend! People have off from work, the weather is beautiful, and there are lots of shows happening! Unfortunately, I have not seen a show since the middle of last week because I am sitting amidst boxes, bubblewrap, and packing tape helping Smother move into her new apartment. Even though I have missed a few events, I am happy to help her and we have had more than a few giggles positioning things, avoiding furniture salesmen, finding a good deal and eating off of pieces of cardboard boxes and using old towels as napkins because we haven't unpacked the dishes yet. Fun times! Stay tuned.

22 - Cooper Boone and Pie Boys Flat

Cooper Boone and Pie Boys Flat
Kenny's Castaways
22 May 2008, 1930

Not much to say about these two groups actually. Entertaining enough. They provided good background music while Taylor and I were catching up on news, personal business, Sudoku and crossword puzzles.

Cooper Boone = country

Pie Boys Flat = guitars and bongos/dumbeks; rock reggae-esque

A tip: Guinness is good for you, but don't get one at Kenny's Castaways.

21 - La Femme Est Morte

La Femme Est Morte or Why I Should Not F%!# My Son
Performance Space 122
21 May 2008, 2000

Based on the story of Phaedra written by Seneca in the time of the emperor Nero, La Femme Est Morte is an interesting adaptation/creation written and directed by Shoshona Currier and produced by The Shalimar. The play features the basic story of Phaedra falling in love and lusting for her stepson, Hippolytus, while her husband/Hippolytus' father, Theseus, is away at war. This production puts a unique spin on the old story by adding text compiled from speeches by General George Patton, General Douglas MacArthur, and Winston Churchill; interviews with Lizzie Grubman, Mary Kay Letourneau, Angelina Jolie, Britney Spears, and Gwyneth Paltrow; and music featuring everything from Sublime to the Black Eyed Peas.

The outcome of this eclectic mix of influences that have been melded together is an interesting juxtaposition of ancient and modern times. Instead of a wife and homemaker, Phaedra is a star of the tabloids. Instead of a wet nurse, Phaedra has a personal assistant who ushers her to pilates classes and Kabbalah lessons. Instead of hunting for his people, Hippolytus is obsessed with boxing. And instead of fighting in the underworld, Theseus is at war as a member of the US army. Imagine a rock and roll tragedy (about 1/3 of the cast die before the final bows).

PS - The show won for Best Ensemble at the 2007 Edinburgh Fringe Festival



100 in 6 budget: $216

20 - Pinchbottom Burlesque: Balls!

Pinchbottom Burlesque
Collective: Unconscious
17 May 2008, 2200

Pinchbottom Burlesque never fails to entertain and amaze me. The show last night was Balls!, a presentation of sports-themed burlesque. I think this was one of the most enjoyable burlesque events I have ever been to. Sharon, Jeremy and I laughed, cheered, heckled, snorted and applauded our way through the entire show. The comedy, which was smart and poignant, was provided by Bastard Keith, Naughtia Nice, Johnny Porkpie, Scott Rayow and Anita Cookie. The nudity, which was perfectly on topic for a sports-themed show, was provided by Anita Cookie, Clams Casino, Gigi La Femme, Tigger!, Little Brooklyn, Harvest Moon, Julie Atlas Muz and Nasty Canasta.

There is so much that I could write about this show because it was such a wonderful production and all of the performers and acts were so incredible. In the interest of saving my eyes from starting to glaze over because I have sat in front of my computer for far too long this morning, I will give out an MVP award. Like I said, although everything about Balls! was thoroughly provocative, smart, and pleasurable, Tigger!'s performance was absolutely unbelievable. Tigger! is a staple of the burlesque scene and has definitely proven himself as the King of Boylesque in New York. He was fantastic last night and I am calling him MVP of the show. Go team Pinchbottom!

100 in 6 budget: $206
100 in 6 incidentals: $201

19 - Missing Tractor

Missing Tractor
Fat Annie's Truck Stop
17 May 2008, 2100

Paul Cataldo is the lead vocalist for Missing Tractor and just happens to be a friend of mine. The rest of the three-man group is made up of Eben Pariser on bass and Tony Montalbano on drums. Missing Tractor performs mainly covers, but throws in one of Paul's songs occasionally as well. Basically, if you like rock and roll, you will like Missing Tractor. Expect to hear some Neil Young, Rod Stewart, CCR, Eagles, Johnny Cash, and Hank Williams. With the tunes they perform and the cozy, friendly feeling that usually enraptures the bars they play in, Missing Tractor is perfect for a night of throwing your arm around a stranger, swaying to the music, drinking a cold one and singing along.

Go find your tractor and don't forget the Jager!

18 - The Randy Bandits

The Randy Bandits
R Bar
17 May 2008, 1900

Saturday was somewhat of a marathon. My plan was to get a few things done around the apartment and then go to the Dance Parade. As soon as I started to do things around the apartment though, I kept finding more things to do and ended up spending the morning and most of the afternoon tidying up and cleaning. Although I missed the Dance Parade, my place is in pristine condition, so if there was ever a time to visit, that time is now. That done, it was time to start the evening. First stop: R Bar on the Bowery for The Randy Bandits.

The Randy Bandits have been together for more than six years and are based in Brooklyn, NY. The band is comprised of Jim Knable (expertly dressed in a royal blue, satin, ruffled, tux-style shirt), Russ Kaplan, Spiff Weigand (who played a different instrument for each song the band performed it seemed), Chris Murphy, Sunny Knable (classically trained pianist turned drummer and overall musical powerhouse) and Jay Buchanan. The Randy Bandits have fun! Their music is fun and their antics are even better. What? Is that a stripper pole on stage? Lets make use of it! Cute girl in the audience? Lets swing with her! This impromptu concert was put together to polish up some of the songs that they will be recording later this month.

Their music is a mix of swing, country, bluegrass, rock and blues. Thanks to Sharon for the invite and for introducing me to The Randy Bandits. They are a good time, go see them!

100 in 6 budget: $191

17 - New York City Tattoo Convention

New York City Tattoo Convention
Roseland Ballroom
16 May 2008

Friday night was part research and part entertainment. As most of you know, I have a handful of tattoos at this point, and I am itching to get more. All of them were done outside of the New York area though, so I don't know any reputable shops in town to visit to plan my next one. A tattoo convention brings together local artists as well as artists from across the country and abroad representing their respective places of employ. If you see an artist who you are particularly interested in but his/her shop is in Italy and you don't have a travel budget, fear not because all of the booths have mobile inking stations set-up and you can have some work done right on the spot. This is how I got my last bit of art...the mood struck me at the Boston Tattoo Convention and now I have a little bit of ink literally tailing me wherever I go.

So, much to the dismay of my Smother, I picked up cards from a half-dozen shops in the New York area to visit. At the moment, I think Red Rocket is at the top of my list because one the artists, Michael Bellamy I believe, has a picture of him tattooing his 88 year old grandmother at the shop, and I just think that is precious. Other artists and shops that piqued my interest were Gene Coffey with Tattoo Culture in Brooklyn, Erin Goodwin at Bruce Bart Tattooing in Woodstock, Lark Tattoo in Westbury, and Hold Fast in Brooklyn. Lots of choices clearly. Now I just need the design idea. Any suggestions?

100 in 6 budget: $186

16 - Cry Baby

Cry Baby
Marquis Theatre
14 May 2008, 2000

Based on the movie (starring Johnny Depp with Traci Lords, Ricki Lake and Mink Stole in supporting roles and a cameo by Iggy Pop) written and directed by the ever eccentric John Waters, Cry Baby the musical is tons of fun. The dancers and choreography are fantastic, the songs are cute and clever, and the show is just full of colorful costuming and energy. Although the show does veer from the 1990 screenplay, the basic cast of characters is the same and so is the general storyline. Suzy and I enjoyed ourselves thoroughly, so thanks for the tickets, Marc. The only downfall to the evening was the guy with the gigantic head that was sitting in front of me. Luckily, the seats next to us were no-shows, so I slid over one and was able to see the stage without the glare of a bald spot in my way!

15 - Hunter College Choir

Hunter College Choir and Collegium Musicum
Hunter College Assembly Hall
12 May 2008, 1900

Choirs are proof that it is a good idea to study Latin. I remember studying Latin in college, but it never sounded as beautiful as it did tonight. The choir is lead by Paul F. Mueller and Matthew Rupcich who are both part of the music department at Hunter College. The main piece that the choir performed was "Mass in Time of War," by Joseph Haydn (1732-1809), a prominent composer of that time period. I found out about the show from Jeannie who is a soprano with the choir, and Lucy and Cindy came along for the ride. This evening of music was exactly what we all needed after spending too much time in front of our computers staring at electropherograms. Music soothes the savage beast, you know. If it could only analyze STRs, we would all be in business. The concert was beautiful and it was a wonderful way to end a long Monday. Thank you Hunter College Choir for relaxing my headache away!

Kyrie eleison.

100 in 6 budget: $168

14 - Poetry Slam

College Poetry Slam
Bowery Poetry Club
10 May 2008, 1800

Ashley and I tackled a poetry slam this weekend. I had never been to a slam before yesterday. Actually, I have never even been to a poetry reading. I have a hard time with most poetry. I don't know what makes a well constructed poem, I don't read poems well because I never know when to pause, and I definitely don't understand iambic pentameter. The slam was fun though. These students got on stage and really performed their poems. They whispered, spoke, yelled, or cooed depending on the lines. They spoke from their hearts about racism, family, boyfriends/girlfriends, and life. I would recommend a slam to anyone who is passionate about something.

100 in 6 budget: $158

13 - George Clinton and the P-Funk All Stars

George Clinton and the P-Funk All Stars
Stone Pony
08 May 2008, 2130

George Clinton is an institution. The creator of the groups Parliament and Funkadelic, an entertainer, and an innovator in the music world. He is one of the fathers of funk.

The evening started out with Rice Cracker and I being exquisite winos (thank you to Target and your fantastic PR firm), which was much to the entertainment of our conductor on the long train ride down the Jersey coast to Asbury Park. Allenfunkin' met us at the train and whisked us away to his place for a quick tour of things before we headed over to the notorious place of legend and all things that are Jersey, the Stone Pony. The evening progressed with more drinks, superb music, and lots of dancing.

The P-Funk All Stars took the stage at 930pm. George joined them not long after 1000pm and the group did not stop playing until 130am. No breaks, no encores, no sets. Certain members came and went from the stage (maxing out at about 22 at one point, which is a tight squeeze on the Pony's small stage), but the music didn't stop until well past curfew. I haven't danced that much in a long time, but once the beat started, I just couldn't help myself. Rice Cracker and Allenfunkin' made for excellent companions as we drank, danced and funked the night away.

This was definitely one of the best shows that I have seen, and I haven't stopped humming Bounce To This since last night. Sorry about the crappy photo quality, I forgot to bring my camera and had to rely on the mobile. Thanks to Allenfunkin' for sharing his place so that the Cracker and I could crash for a few hours. We already have plans to see him play again when he comes to B.B. Kings in July. Viva la funk.

100 in 6 budget: $153
100 in 6 incidentals: $196

12 - Caroline's on Broadway

New Comic Night
Caroline's on Broadway
05 May 2008, 2130

What can I say? There were some laughs, and there were some moments of silence. Caroline's New Comic Night is a showcase of the up and coming comics in the area, so as one would expect, there are hits and there are misses. There were definitely a few comics that killed, unfortunately they were balanced out by a few that should have been killed on stage.

Thanks to Jenn, Lauren and the army of 15 other people with us for the company.

100 in 6 budget: $118
100 in 6 incidentals: $172

11 - Sakura Matsuri

Sakura Matsuri - Cherry Blossom Festival
Brooklyn Botanic Garden
04 May 2008

This weekend was New York City's "Rite of Spring", Sakura Matsuri, featuring the cherry blossom trees in full bloom. Thankfully, the sun actually managed to peak its head out for a little while when I was strolling through the Steinhardt Conservatory, the rock garden, the cherry esplanade, and the various twisting paths that make up the gardens. There were so many beautiful colors from the hundreds of flowers in bloom that Brooklyn felt like a thin slice of heaven. The conservatory was featuring a bonsai display, and all throughout the gardens were various events celebrating Japanese culture. I caught part of the performance by Taiko Masala, a Taiko drumming group based in Brooklyn and lead by Hiro Kurashima, a Master of Suwa style taiko drumming. They were phenomenal and bursting with energy. I wanted to pick up a copy of their cd, but I wasn't able to get to them after the performance was finished.


The day was truly beautiful. Welcome to springtime, New York.





100 in 6 budget: $113

10 - Atlantic City bus trip

Okay...I know it isn't a performing arts event, but it was an all day affair, there was gaming involved, and the commute was a killer.

8am - board the R in Brooklyn
914am - board NJ Transit Northeast Corridor line to New Brunswick
11am - board the bus to Atlantic City
1pm - arrive in AC
(and don't forget, we have to do it all again to get home later! Hooray!)

Thanks to Elaine the "ringleader", Diana the "high-roller", and Kevin the "King of NJ" for their company. The trip was arranged by Robert, a good friend of mine. Robert runs a bar near one of the Rutgers' campuses called the Ale 'N 'Wich pub and has organized these types of events in the past. Clearly, the trips have all been successful since the bus was packed for this run down the coast.

So, representing the great city of New York and most likely being the four oldest people on the bus, away we went! Mimosas were poured early on and the beers started flowing soon after as we headed our way down to the gaming mecca by the sea. Once off the bus, we blew our slot machine comps within the first five minutes that we were there and hit the boardwalk. Although the weather was crap, we managed to have a few laughs, maintain a nice buzz, and make the day go by rather quickly.

We lost most of our money at Bally's, well, I did at least. What can I say, Carmen was a shrewd blackjack dealer. We joined Robert and the rest of the gang at Caesar's for a drink to watch the Kentucky Derby before we headed back onto the bus. More drinking and hours of commuting later, and we were back in Brooklyn. Cheers.

100 in 6 budget: $105
100 in 6 incidentals budget: $151

8-9 - Dillon, James, Dion

Cass Dillon
Derek James & The Lovely Fools
Josh Dion Band

Highline Ballroom
02 May 2008, 2000

8pm - There isn't anyone at the venue save for me, the Highline employees, and a handful of people who are probably girlfriends of the band. Cass Dillon and band take the stage. I feel terribly that there is nobody present to hear the Long Islander belt out a few tunes. Cass Dillon has been playing since an early age after being introduced to the music scene by his drummer dad. The band sounds crisp and polished despite some technical difficulties by the Highline light guy (the band played an entire song in the dark). Their songs are easy to listen to and have some fantastic lyrics too. They definitely sound like they could be on the rotation at WPLJ or a similar station.


9pm - The Highline starts to fill up finally. The twang of something honky tonk-esque fills the room. Derek James & The Lovely Fools have taken the stage. A late bloomer, James started his music career in 2003. The music was fun and easy on the ears, and who couldn't like a band that features a kazoo in a couple songs?


1015pm - The Josh Dion band fills the stage...literally...there are nine of them including a keyboard, drummer, two guitarists, a tambourine girl, sax, French horn possibly, slide trombone, and trumpet. You can't help but tap your foot and nod your head to the music. I felt like I was at a revival. Josh Dion is the drummer and lead vocals, and sort of reminded me of Animal from the Muppets. He had shaggy hair, full beard and was wearing what looked to be a red velvet jacket with a white cravat and black button-down. Everyone in the room was swaying, dancing, bopping, and grooving. Fun times. Fun music.



100 in 6 budget: $70 (thanks to Goldstar for the cheap tickets!)