MOTORCITYBLOG

Wild At Heart

2012-03-05T17:37:00.001-05:00

Wild Bill Ketelhut provides the "blog" to this anti-blog

Wild At Heart

One thing Detroit excels in is cars from the North American International Auto Show (which I always thought was a tad boring) to Autorama (always loved the design work that went into these cars), not to mention the Dream Cruise, the Concours, the Henry Ford and a dozen car museums within a decent drive. When I heard that Rochester, NY had a car show (the Greater Rochester International Auto Show), I snagged some free tickets and went to check it out. Let’s just say after 6 years in Detroit auto shows, this was a major let down. That is not to say there were not some nice cars but the layouts were boring and the actual quantity of cars was barely more than a decent car lot. The only car I saw that really impressed me was the Fisker which is a hybrid car from California which was founded in 2007 after numerous rejections from the big 3. You can check out 2010’s documentary “Revenge Of The Electric Car” to get a bit of back story on the company.

Despite not being overly impressed, there were a few cars I did enjoy so here are a few pictures from the show. I think yellow was a hot color.

In my free time, I went to the world famous House Of Guitars to check out a local band Envious Disguise, a punk rock band from Rochester (http://www.facebook.com/pages/Envious-Disguise/160620624041703?sk=app_178091127385). I thought they were more towards a indie rock vibe but they do play their own music. They haven’t been together long but they do have a good vibe on stage together like they are just letting things happen and are not overly serious yet. We’ll see what happens. Feel free to check them out at the link provided.

Last night I took in the Honeycutters from North Carolina. There lead singer (and songwriter), Amanda Anne Platt, has been getting some good word of mouth so I thought I would check out the show at Abeline’s. What I heard some a beautiful blend of songwriting and strings. The band has a couple upbeat songs but I found there more melancholy tunes to be the real stars of the show. I talked to Amanda after the show and brought up playing at the Ark which I think would fit the band wonderfully (she also has a relative that runs a bookstore in Ann Arbor so this should be a no-brainer) unless the guys who put on one of the major festivals want to invite them in (like the Hoedown or Concert Of Colors). They were without their drummer for this tour since he was working as an engineer with the Indigo Girls on their upcoming album. This was a low budget affair with lead guitarist/producer/sound guy Peter James who also added some background vocals as well as Spencer Taylor spectacular play on mandolin and Ian Harrod on bass. They are getting ready to release their sophomore album “When Bitter Met Sweet” sometime around May of 2012 and the songs they played from that album were wonderful. This is definitely a band to check out and all you guys who love the Ark, get some pressure to bring these guys in. You won’t be disappointed.

Getting ready to head out for the Hot Tuna show here in Rochester (they will be in Ann Arbor tomorrow) so have a good week and here are a few more choices of some hot shows, esp Gomez:

Tuesday (3/6) – Hot Tuna @ the Ark

Thursday (3/8) – Gomez @ St Andrews Hall, Matt Nathanson opens for Kelly Clarkson @ Caesar’s Windsor

Friday (3/9) – Tossers and St Thomas Boys Academy @ Small’s, An Horse @ Pike Room

Saturday (3/10) – Reverend Horton Heat @ Magic Stick, Hoots & Hellmouth @ the Ark, Lyle Lovett & John Hiatt @ Fillmore

Monday (3/12) – Anti-Flag @ Magic Stick

UPCOMING: THE COMPOSURE set to "Stay The Course" at 4731 Gallery Detroit on 3/22

2012-03-05T15:14:00.001-05:00

Win a copy of the latest CD from The Composure who are heading to to Detroit for show at 4731 Gallery Detroit on March 22nd 2012

RELEASE OF STAY THE COURSE on March 13th

The intersection of persistence, perseverance and pure talent is only the starting point for bands emerging in the digital age. For THE COMPOSURE, this mix has fueled a nonstop thrust of power-pop energy from Pittsburgh to the world; a journey that continues for the band on March 13, 2012 with the release of their aptly named EP STAY THE COURSE.

From the band's first demos hitting Myspace in 2007—which led to the release of debut LP Strings Attached with the help of legendary producers Mark Trombino and Marc McClusky—through non-stop touring alongside everyone from Bruce Springsteen to Allstar Weekend, THE COMPOSURE has blazed a trail of sweet pop-punk that's layered with infectious rhythm and sugary melody.

And now it's only fitting that The Composure delivers STAY THE COURSE – their sophomore release – right as the band is doing just that. Overflowing with that signature meld of tight-locked power pop, the EP's six songs are polished and pure, ready for sing-a-longs and sharing.

"This EP is a snapshot of the natural progression of The Composure," explains drummer Cory Muro. "We didn't have to lock ourselves in a studio to fabricate new material. These songs are just what we do, and I think they're easy to relate to because they're very real and come straight from who we are."

Muro – along with singer/guitarist Paul Menotiades, guitarist Seth Milly and bassist Johnny Grushekcy – have always employed this honesty while growing a dedicated core of fan followers.

From the first seconds of album opener Stay Away From Me – with driving punk backbeats – to the bouncy closer Satan, STAY THE COURSE tightly weaves the band's past four years of musical growth through their solid sonic foundation that has captivated audiences since the first note.

"Our fans, friends and audiences are on this musical journey with us," Paul continues. "And for that, we feel an obligation to Stay The Course of who we are, and we're doing just that."

And THE COMPOSURE will continue to bring this experience to their fans live, including the March 10th hometown album release show at Altar Bar in Pittsburgh, PA. The band will also trek to Austin during SXSW for select showcase appearances. The band's upcoming dates include:

3/10/12 Pittsburgh, PA @ Altar Bar "Stay The Course" Album Release Show
3/12/12 London, OH @ Club Soda
3/13/12 Nashville, TN @ National Underground (Early Acoustic Set)
3/13/12 Nashville, TN @ The End
3/16/12 Austin, TX @ Fuel
3/17/12 Austin, TX @ Bayou Lounge (AltarTV in Austin Showcase)
3/21/12 Barrington, IL @ Penny Road Pub
3/22/12 Detroit, MI @ 4731 Venue

STAY THE COURSE is available March 13, 2012 from Modern Short Stories.
A special pre-order is available now at www.modernshortstories.net/store .

www.thecomposure.com
www.facebook.com/thecomposurerock
www.twitter.com/thecomposure
www.modernshortstories.net

LAC LA BELLE perform with ORPHEUM BELL at Trinity House Theatre - 3/9

2012-03-05T11:55:00.001-05:00

Americana groups Lac La Belle & Orpheum Bell live at the Trinity House Theatre, Friday, March 9th 2012

Lac La Belle & Orpheum Bell
Friday, March 9, 2012
Trinity House Theatre
33840 West Six Mile
Livonia, MI 48152
734-464-6302
www.trinityhouse.org
Doors at 7:30p Show starts at 8pm

www.laclabellemusic.com
www.orpheumbell.com

Detroit Americana duo Lac La Belle featuring Jennie Knaggs and Nick Schillace will be performing with Ann Arbor's Orpheum Bell.

Both groups bring a unique and expansive approach to traditional American folk and roots music while blending in their own set of unique influences.

LAC LA BELLE
Jennie Knaggs and Nick Schillace make up the Americana duo Lac La Belle, of Detroit, Michigan. Their sound juxtaposes the early decades of recorded rural American music with decaying Rustbelt aesthetic. A tradition is re-imagined- or maybe just resumed- in the 'future-rustic' swirl of accordion, ukulele, mandolin, banjo, resonator guitar, and harmonizing vocals.

Lac La Belle has been touring the USA since 2009, with six tours of the mid-west, south and east, and just completed their first European tour this past November. Their soon to be released second album, "Bring on the Light" boasts 12 original works and one traditional arrangement, performed with a variety of instruments from accordion to banjitar. Each song presents a melodic tale, be it an intimate anecdote or stories on their hometown Detroit, "Bring on the Light" captures the drifting spirit of early America.

In the course of travel and advocacy work in Southern Appalachia, Jennie Knaggs mined folk music first hand from musicians of the region. She is the 2000 Hollerin' Champion of Wise Co., Virginia and Letcher Co., Kentucky, and she gracefully applies her vocal techniques in the duo's original works with her soaring and yodeling vocals. Knaggs has toured Europe in various vocal ensembles, and recently performed as an artist in residence in Labro, Italy. In 2010 she was a principal vocalist in Matthew Barney's upcoming film, "Khu."

Nick Schillace is recognized as a solo instrumentalist who has contributed to the American Primitive guitar canon with his releases Box Canyon (2005) and Landscape and People (2008.) Raised by folk and blues enthusiasts, he acquired early training at Augusta Heritage in Elkins, West Virginia. Schillace has toured and performed with other fingerpicking greats, including Bert Jansch, Peter Lang, Jack Rose, Keenan Lawler, Eric Carbonara and Glenn Jones, and is considered an authority on early 20th century American fingerpicking guitar styles.

ORPHEUM BELL
Equipped with an orchestral ensemble of banjo, accordion, trumpet, xylophone, shepherd harp, musical saw, pedal steel, a suitcase pump organ, cittern, guitar and dobro, double bass, foot percussion, various ukuleles and mechanical horned violins, Orpheum Bell performs an original "Country & Eastern" songbook of lullabies, stomps, dirt-road ballads, and gypsy suites and waltzes.
Relying on old, acoustic instruments, the band's sound moves from chiseled, plaintive song stories to articulate, richly-played instrumentals. The members come at the music from different angles - a classically trained harpsichordist, a rural folk polymath, a church choir girl, one from Holland, another from Ukraine.
"Ah, yes, well played. Can't forget that. These folks are excellent musicians, skilled, and soulful. And throughout the album they work as an ensemble so well it seems they were meant to do this together."

--
http://www.laclabellemusic.com
http://www.facebook.com/laclabelle
http://www.orionmusicstudio.com/

FREE VINYL & UPCOMING RECORD RELEASE SHOW: Andre Williams - Blind Pig Ann Arbor - March 24th 2012

2012-03-05T11:42:00.002-05:00

Andre Williams & the Goldstars perform

their RECORD RELEASE SHOW

The Blind Pig Ann Arbor on Saturday, March 24

Doors at 9 PM / $8 in advance; $10 day of / 18 +

Presented by WCBN

Andre Williams released his fourth full-length album

– Hoods and Shades –

on Bloodshot Records on February 28 2012

The new album was recorded in Detroit, once again bringing Andre together with long-time contributors Matt Smith (Outrageous Cherry, Nathaniel Mayer, Volebeats), Funk Brother Dennis Coffey on guitar, Jim White (Dirty Three, Cat Power), Greasy Carlisi (Robert Gordon, Chris Spedding), Jim Diamond (Dirtbombs), and Grammy-award winning producer Don Was. For Hoods and Shades Andre ventures into a folk/psychedelic/R&B zone, in what he has dubbed "the Andre Williams folk album."

Download the lead single "Dirt"

http://www.bloodshotrecords.com/

and get to this show!!!

email motorcityblog@earthlink.net for your chance to win the wax

Get the latest vinyl release from Bloodshot Records now

and win a copy from MCB

We have covered most of the Andre William's shows in Detroit and Milwaukee

and it is always a good ol time

ALL MONTH: Hard Rock Cafe Detroit Hosts Hard Rock Rising - Thursday nights in March 2012

2012-03-05T11:22:00.001-05:00

Hard Rock Cafe Detroit Hosts Hard Rock Rising

Global Battle of the Bands Competition Gives metro Detroit Up-and-Coming Bands the Chance to

Take the Stage at Hard Rock Calling 2012

Hard Rock is on the hunt for musicians on the rise to take the stage at the 2012 Hard Rock Calling music festival in London's Hyde Park. Hard Rock Rising, the global battle of the bands, will give one local band from this international competition the chance of a lifetime to be on the bill with Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band and additional headlining performers at one of the world's most-anticipated concert events.

Beginning on Thursday, March 8, 2012, the area's greatest undiscovered bands, as chosen by Hard Rock Cafe Detroit's Facebook fans, will take the stage at Hard Rock Cafe Detroit and battle it out live at multiple qualifying events. Bands performing include Something Utopic, Clay Adams Band, Fusion Records Entertainment, alchalant, Tone and Niche, Armour the Lion, Stealing Betty, Nathan Roberts and Essential Side Project. Each round will be hosted by Gynp, mid-day on-air host at 93.9 The River, and bands will be judged by a panel of local industry experts. including Kirk Rukenbrod of MOTORCITYBLOG, Robert Enell of Hell City Records, Todd Glass and Tony DelVardo of the Muggs, BJ Hammerstein of Detroit Free Press, Travis Wright of WDET, Mark Kurlyandchik, of HOUR Detroit and Casey Schwochow, originator and owner of Rock and Rummage and Ambervillain Films and participating bands' representatives. A final round featuring each of the preliminary winners will be held on Thursday, March 29, 2012, with one winner being selected to move on.

Hard Rock Cafe Detroit's local winners will then be pitted against eighty-six other Hard Rock Cafe local winners from across the globe. These local winners will be narrowed down to the top ten bands worldwide via fan voting on participating Hard Rock Facebook pages. A panel of celebrity judges and music industry professionals will select the top three winners.

The first place winner will be flown to London for the ultimate rock star treatment, including a spot on the bill at Hard Rock Calling 2012. Second and third prize winners will receive $5,000 and $2,500, respectively, in ReverbNation PROMOTE IT credits, a revolutionary tool that creates targeted, highly effective Facebook advertising campaigns for musicians and venues promoting songs, Facebook pages and concerts. For full rules and a list of participating locations visit www.hardrock.com.

What: Hard Rock Cafe Detroit Hosts Hard Rock Rising

When: Thursday, March 8, 2012

8:00 p.m. Event begins

Thursday, March 15, 2012

8:00 p.m. Event begins

Thursday, March 22, 2012

8:00 p.m. Event begins

FINAL Live Performance Round

Thursday, March 29, 2012

8:00 p.m. Event begins

Where: Hard Rock Cafe Detroit

45 Monroe

Detroit, MI 48226

313-964-7625

Visit www.hardrock.com/Detroit for additional details.

About Hard Rock Calling

Hard Rock Calling, an iconic festival now in its seventh consecutive year, has established itself as one of the UK's premier outdoor music events. The 2012 festival will take place from Friday, July, 13 to Sunday, July 15 in London's Hyde Park. Headliners for the festival will include Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band, who will take the Main Stage for their second Hard Rock Calling performance. Hard Rock Calling 2012's performers will join a long line of rock 'n' roll greats who have taken the stage at this iconic festival including: Aerosmith, Eric Clapton, Neil Young, Paul McCartney, Stevie Wonder, The Who, Pearl Jam, Peter Gabriel, The Killers, The Police, Rod Stewart and Bon Jovi. Hard Rock Calling, produced by Live Nation and presented by Hard Rock International, is a unique and historic musical event with a main stage, second stage, renowned bands, on-site Hard Rock Cafe, as well as a variety of additional attractions. For further information on the 2012 artist lineup and ticket details, visit www.hardrockcalling.co.uk.

Uptown Film Festival to Benefit Gleaners

2012-03-05T11:15:00.000-05:00

You can help feed our hungry neighbors simply by joining us in a three-day celebration of Michigan Filmmaking!

Leaders in Michigan's growing film industry have joined together for the 2nd Annual Uptown Film Festival (UFF), a celebration of Michigan-made movies and the productions created by Michigan filmmakers. Don't miss this amazing festival starting Thursday, March 8 Saturday, March 10 at the Palladium 12 and Birmingham 8 Theatres in Birmingham, MI. This three-day event will highlight premieres of major Michigan feature films and screenings of nominated films from the 3rd Annual Michigan Film Awards competition. The Uptown Film Festival benefits local charities.

The Uptown Film Festival promises to be a fabulous weekend of film fun, premieres and networking. Come interact with industry leaders and insiders. Be a part of the fast-paced, emerging film industry in our great state. VIP passes and tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at www.uptownfilmfestival.com or (248) 233-6505.

866-GLEANER or http://www.gcfb.org/

UPCOMING: The Elizabeth Theater Proudly Presents Louis Aguilar's The Troublemakers: Frida and Diego in Detroit - Tues-Thurs 3/20-3/22 2012

2012-03-05T11:08:00.001-05:00

The Elizabeth Theater Proudly Presents Louis Aguilar's The Troublemakers: Frida and Diego in Detroit.
A Multi-media Tale of the True, Epic Battle Over Diego Rivera's Art

The Elizabeth Theater, above the Park Bar, presents The Troublemakers: Frida and Diego in Detroit , Tuesday March 20 through Thursday March 22, 2012.

Wednesday, March 21 marks the exact day 79 years ago when Rivera's Detroit Industry murals debuted amid fierce attacks to destroy the art.

When Rivera and his then-unknown wife Frida Kahlo arrive in Depression-era Detroit, the two glamorous, brilliant Communists ignite a media-fueled controversy involving tens of thousands and ultimately help a bitterly-divided city find common ground. They also produce modern masterpieces.

The heart of the angry debate: Who has the right to represent America during a polemic time?

Kresge Literary Artist Fellow Louis Aguilar's script is based on the actual words said by the artists as well as the many passionate words said by Detroiters in defense or opposition of the artists. Emmy Award-winning filmmaker Stephen McGee has created visuals based on more than 100 archival photos. Blue Note recording artist Jessica Hernandez has composed a score based on sounds collected at the Ford Rouge Plant.

The ensemble cast of The Troublemakers includes Kresge Performing Arts Fellow Valeria Montes (AKA La Chispa flamenco dancer) and Hubert Massey, one of the few African American artists who paints in the same fresco style as Rivera. Other cast members include novelist Lynn Crawford and author Dan Austin; journalists such as Putlizer Prize winner Charlie LeDuff, WDET's Martina Guzman and Detroit News editorial writer Ingrid Jacques; musicians such as hip-hop artist Invincible and legendary rock producer Jim Diamond, founder of Ghetto Recorders. Other local artists and community leaders are also featured.

Tickets are $8 ($5 for students) and are available by calling the Elizabeth Theater Box Office at 313-444-2294.

The box office is open Thursday through Tuesday from 12 p.m. until 7 p.m.
Visit the Park Bar web site at www.parkbardetroit.com

Imminent Sonic Destruction CD Release Party

2012-03-05T08:39:00.001-05:00

An amazingly talented group of musicians hailing from Detroit, Imminent Sonic Destruction has been described as progressive super metal / death metal. Regardless of the label that has been set upon them, ISD has something to offer any music fan. Their music is extremely melodic, heavy, sophisticated and multi layered.
The songs on Recurring Themes range from 2-16 minutes long. Some of the songs give a hint of Pink Floyd while others are more reminiscent of Rush, but with a style and heaviness of their own. Don’t get me wrong, these guys are no copy cats, far from it. Smooth signature and time changes with heavy guitar riffs and exploding drums are not an easy combination to achieve. On top of all that add in some serious keys and a laser light show. These guys know how to put on a show and ooze chemistry.
Imminent Sonic Destruction are:
Tony Piccoli - Lead Vocals, Guitars
Pat DeLeon - Drums, Percussion
Scott Thompson - Guitars, Vocals
Pete Hopersberger - Keyboards, Vocals
Bryan Paxton - Bass, Vocals

Recurring Themes track listing:

'Driving Home'
'Monster'
'With Death, This Story Ends'
'Breaking Through'
'Temple'
'Here, It's Over'
'Sick'
'The Remembering'
'Raven'
www.imminentsonicdestruction.com

SLAW-Something Like A War

2012-03-02T18:40:00.002-05:00

(click image to enlarge)

Enjoy this weeks edition of SLAW with your new cartoon favorites

Evans and English

Tomorrow: Detroit Derby Girls at the Masonic Temple

2012-03-02T16:20:00.000-05:00

The D-Funk Allstars vs. The Pistolwhippers

Saturday, March 3, at the Masonic Temple

All tickets $15, up to two children under 12 admitted free with each adult admission

Doors open at 6 p.m., bout starts at 7.

Will D-Funk keep their winning streak going? Will the Pistolwhippers stay out of the penalty box long enough to outscore their opponents? I had to chance to chat with Fatal Femme, the captain of The D-Funk Allstars about tomorrow's match:

Detroit Area Dork: What do you think are the Pistolwhippers' greatest assets?
Fatal Femme: I think the Whippers greatest asset is our old team mate Boo. She knows how we play, practice, and bout. Good thing we have switched up the way we play this year.
Detroit Area Dork: Any chance your team will have the most penalty time on Saturday?
Fatal Femme: Hmm, I'm not sure who will have the most penalties, because the Whippers and us both spend a lot of time in the box.
Detroit Area Dork: D-Funk is currently vying with the Grand Prix Madonnas for first place. Is the team feeling the pressure to keep a perfect record?
Fatal Femme: We do feel a little pressure, but having beat last years champions (Detroit Pistoffs) already has relieved a lot of the pressure. We are very interested to see how the Grand Prix's hold up against the reigning champions. We are taking one bout at a time and are just working hard to do our best!

Show review: SHREK THE MUSICAL @ The Fisher Theater (currently playing)

2012-03-02T08:46:00.009-05:00

I made by return to the stunning Fisher Theater in Detroit on Tuesday night to catch "SHREK THE MUSICAL" which is currently on a National tour and in town till March 11.
Alongside me for this show was my "6" year old niece Addison. She's a huge Shrek fan so who better to give me the kids perspective on this show.
The first thing I noticed upon my arrival to the theater was the amount of adults who did not bring along any children. I wondered if they were season ticket holders or just those who enjoy Broadway musicals regardless of the age demographic or subject.

SHREK THE MUSICAL is based on the Oscar®-winning DreamWorks film as well as the novel that started it all and features a score of 19 all-new songs.
The plot for the musical revolves around a faraway kingdom turned upside down. An unseemly ogre named Shrek shows up to rescue a feisty princess and find a home for over a dozen other fairy tale misfits. He also has to deal with a donkey who won't shut up, a villain with a "short" temper, and a Dragon.

Within the first 10 minutes I could see why so many adults could show up without young ones and be fully entertained. The show has a edge and has adult humor that I forgot was in the Dreamworks movie that I have not seen in many years. This was proven by the Isaac Hayes look a like with a Jeri Curl who was seated,by himself, behind my niece and I. The gentleman was having the time of his life and was laughing loudly and proudly throughout the musical. So how's that for a demographic?

The staging was a visual eyegasm. Top notch costume and set designs. I was always anticipating the next scene because it would bring another stunning sequence.

Lukas Poost who plays Shrek was great. I was checking out his green makeup and face moldings in great detail and I can honestly tell you that I believe he may be a orge in real life.
The very short Lord Farquaad was played by Merritt David Janes who has his real legs strapped up behind him and hidden by a black curtain, but is not afraid to make his presence known as the mastermind puppeteer.
Other great characters is that I enjoyed seeing were Pinocchio who just can't seem to stop lying and having that nose of his grow and a talking cookie with a attitude.
The 17 foot tall Pink Dragon who guards Princess Fiona is the ultimate special effect in this musical. It's creature design is epic and is operated by several puppeteers dressed in black. The Dragon appears both menacing and flirtatious, while dancing up a storm!

I can easily recommend this show to anyone. It is indeed a show that would appeal to any age. If you have a sense of humor you will be good to go with this one.

The show runs 2 hours and 30 minutes which includes a 15 minute intermission. Keep this in mind if your bringing young ones. My niece loved the show, but could not sit still for the whole thing. I was hoping Addison would give a review after the show, but she was short with words. She did state that she found Princess Fiona to be "very pretty".

The show runs from February 28, 2012 to March 11, 2012
Show times are:
Tuesday - Saturday at 7:30pm
Sunday Evenings at 6:30pm
Saturday Matinee at 2:00pm
Sunday Matinee at 1:00pm
Special signed performance on Sunday, March 4, 2012 at 6:30pm.

Children 5 and under not admitted to this event.

at
Fisher Theatre
3011 W. Grand Blvd., Detroit
Tickets $29-$79
Call (800) 982-2787

For more info visit: http://www.broadwayindetroit.com

Recap: Yacht at the Pike Room

2012-02-29T22:55:00.000-05:00

Yacht played at the Crofoot's Pike Room on February 20th.

Opening for Yacht that night was Johnny Headband. They've been lying low for a while, (probably having to do with Keith being a part of Electric Six, which tours constantly) but now their back, and they're going to be releasing a new album soon. I've seen Johnny Headband play several times before, but this time it seemed like they were kind of phoning it in. I'm used to seeing them work themselves into a major sweat. I'm talking about fat guy stuck in a sauna levels of sweat. They've set the bar pretty high with their previous energetic performances, and they didn't meet it this time. They'll be playing this Thursday for the Blowout, 11PM at Small's Bar. Maybe they'll be more into it when it's not a Monday night.

Yacht didn't have a projector get-up like they did they last time they were in town, but that probably would have made the smaller Pike Room seem cluttered. The overall crowd numbers were probably less than their appearance last August, but the crowd still filled out the room, which isn't a bad turnout at all for Michigan on a Monday night.

The band still goes with the theme of Jona in black, and Claire in white. Claire even goes as far to make sure that the microphone, microphone stand, and cowbell she used is white. That's dedication.

From the first song, Yacht threw themselves into their performance. Claire was always doing her ephemeral dancing during the music (unless she was playing the keyboard), and Jona never let up with his intensity. During one song, Claire walked amongst the crowd, placing her hand on the foreheads of the fans. It was as if she were giving her blessing.

They ended the set with crowd-pleasures "Psychic City", "Dystopia", and "Shrangi-La". Unlike most other bands who just let the "merch guy/girl" work the table all night. After the performance the band hangs around at the table so long as there's still fans. They chatted with fans, signed autographs, and posed for pictures. Why aren't they famous yet?

This post by:

I'm a dork, I live in the Detroit area, and sometimes I take blurry photos on an outdated camera

The 2012 Metrotimes Blowout Starts Tonight

2012-02-29T12:56:00.000-05:00

The Blowout starts tonight with the kickoff party at the Magic Stick tonight, with the following 3 days happening across Hamtramck. The biggest difference this year, is that Gates of Columbus will no longer be the largest venue of the place to buy your wristband in Hamtramck. Polish National Alliance Hall is the large Hamtramck venue this year. It's on Conant and Belmont, just a few blocks north of where you're used to going. You can also get wristbands at Detroit Threads.

There's no shortage of things to see, and MCB would like to direct your attention to what we think are some standouts.

Thursday
10:00, Electric Fire Babies at Smalls. Electric noise that makes you move.
11:00, you have a touch choice between the kitchy electro-pop of Charlie Slick at The Painted Lady, or the equally kitchy Johnny Headband at Small's
12:20, Lettercamp at Baker's. Some of the best synth-pop around these parts.

Friday
10:20, Danny and the Darleans at Skipper's Bar. What has Danny Kroha been up to? Time to find out.
11:20, Katie Grace at Kelly's Bar. If you liked The Syreens, The Salt Miners, or Shotgun Wedding, it's time to see Katie on her own.
12:20, Baker's, Fur. Great post-punk.

Saturday
9:20, Pewter Cub at Kelly's Bar. I'm running out of ways to summarize bands in just one sentence. They're good, just go see them.
11:20, The Hentchmen at PNA Hall
1:00, The Dirtbombs. If this festival had a headliner, this would be it.

FREE Tickets Vinyls and other goodies from MCB Vacation - Child Bite, Saw Doctors, Lyle Lovett, Ty Stone, Human Nature, Blue Snaggletooth, Band of Skulls

2012-02-29T09:01:00.001-05:00

We wanted to celebrate Feb 29th with a few freebies...we are still on an extended MCB Vacation and this has taken like 2 days to compose as we squint in the sun under these palm trees sipping cool drinks and enjoying cool buzz but we will be returning soon so here are a handful of giveaways to keep you satisfied on this free day...we will post more details about each next week...email motorcityblog@earthlink.net for your chance to win

Ty Stone is on the road and heading home to the motorcity to headline the Fillmore Detroit on March 20th...with a new record American Style about to hit the street and his popularity soaring you can win a pair of tickets to see him before he hits breaks out big
More info here - http://www.tystonemusic.com/

MCB has had a few copies of the latest vinyl release from Ann Arbor's Blue Snaggletooth in house for a few weeks and we were waiting for a Detroit show to post a giveaway...we just cant wait any longer..the 1st and 2nd emailers get the wax ...limited pressing and kick ass..this record will cast many a spell on you... http://www.facebook.com/pages/Blue-Snaggletooth/105410702837250?sk=info

The Motorcity's own Child Bite released a limited edition green 10" vinyl a week or so ago via Joyful Noise (we told you we have been on vacation for a few weeks maxing out the MCB credit card)...get this vinyl keeper free from MCB now or hurry now to purchase from the label who are rolling out the monthly flexi disc collections (remember..we gave one of those away a few months back)

Band of Skulls is coming to town playing a show at St Andrews Hall on April 2nd 2012
we already gave away some tickets to the show but you can win a copy of the latest 12" LP now
http://motorcityblog.blogspot.com/2012/02/free-tickets-band-of-skulls-st-andrews.html

We are super stoked to be giving away a pair of tickets to the upcoming Lyle Lovett show at The Fillmore Detroit on March 10th plus we have a signed tour poster and a few other chunks of swag (CD's vinyls etc) to offer up ... get tickets here
http://www.lylelovett.com/

The Saw Doctors are coming back to town opting to play downtown Detroit at St Andrews Hall this time ...check out the latest video above and email us for a pair of tickets to the show on March 22nd

HUMAN NATURE, Australia’s leading pop vocal group with millions of albums sold worldwide, is storming America in a big way with their first US tour, a new album release, The Motown Record. and a spectacular PBS Special. The chart-topping male quartet is embarking on its first U.S. tour this spring. “Human Nature: The Motown Show presented by Smokey Robinson” is a spectacular evening of entertainment, featuring Motown hits that leave audiences young and old dancing in the aisles and cheering for more. Paying tribute to the Motown sound, Human Nature’s distinctive versions of these ever-popular favorites represent everything audiences love about the songs, performed and arranged by four supremely talented young men who sing and dance their way through theMotown hit list. ticket information, visit www.humannaturelive.com.

or email us here at MCB - we have a pair of tickets ready to roll

for the upcoming show at Fisher Theatre on March 24th 2012

Gentle Reminder: Boom Chick has a free show at the Crofoot

2012-02-28T23:08:00.001-05:00

Boom Chick

Wednesday, February 29th, at the Crofoot's Vernor Room

Doors at 10PM, FREE

Boom Chick is Frank Hoier on guitar & vocals and Moselle Spiller on drums. Formed in Brooklyn, NY Sept 2009, their sound is a reflection of their ecstatic love for early American rock & roll, surf guitar, early country music & Delta blues. They have released one album to date, Show Pony and as of February, 2012 a 7" single Shake Can Well. Since 2010 Boom Chick has completed 4 full American tours. Beginning February 2012 a 3 month tour will again bring them to every corner of America. Boom Chick’s debut album Show Pony made Magnet Magazine’s Best of 2010 List: Hidden Treasures. In the past year they’ve had their music featured in skateboard videos for Thrasher Magazine and Element Skateboards. Their song “Ghost of Bo Diddley” was featured in ESPN’s series The Kids, and Big Star Jeans’ fashion teaser All Day, starring Ilona Struzik

SLAW- Something Like A War by John Kalogerakos

2012-02-28T22:52:00.000-05:00

(click image to enlarge)

Enjoy this weeks edition of SLAW with your new cartoon favorites

Evans and English

DO NOT MISS: Noir Fetish Event Sat March 3rd

2012-02-28T22:46:00.001-05:00

Just on the Heels of the Dirty Show
Noir Leather Presents "Worship & Obey" Hellbound Party. Sat March 3rd. Aquanettes sexy girl Surf band Plays, Human Aviary by Tiffany Diamond, Lady Pain Mistress of Erotic Ceremonies, Noir Fetish Girls to Worship & Obey. Spanking benches for play & More! 9pm Doors 18+ I-Rock Nightclub 6350 Harper Ave. Detroit, Noir for tix & info 248-541-3979

http://www.noirleather.com/

New Book about the Cass Corridor

2012-02-28T21:50:00.000-05:00

Cass Cafe is hosting a celebration of Detroit's Cass Corridor on Saturday, March 3, from 6 - 10 PM with a community gathering and a book release event for Detroit's Cass Corridor, the latest title in Arcadia Press’ Images of America series. Authors Armando Delicato and Elias Khalil will be in attendance to meet the public, and sign copies of their newly published book. The event also features light snacks and a cash bar. The event is free and open to the public.

This new book highlights the story of what is arguably Detroit's most famous neighborhood in photos and text. The March 3rd event is also conceived of as being a Cass Corridor celebration and reunion of sorts, and the public is invited to bring and share their memories and stories of the Cass Corridor with the authors and attending guests. A multi-media slideshow of images from the book will play during the event.

Authors Delicato and Khalil share their love of this unique neighborhood in their book, copies of which will be available for purchase at Cass Cafe the evening of the event.

Cass Cafe is located at 4620 Cass Avenue, just south of Forest Avenue in Detroit’s Cass Corridor. www.casscafe.com, 313-831-1400.

Wild At Heart

2012-02-28T00:04:00.001-05:00

Wild Bill Ketelhut provides the "blog" to this anti-blog

Wild At Heart

Since I have been back in Rochester, I am still looking for the great local bands. Unlike Detroit, most of the bands around here are cover bands. Most are decent but occasionally I find one that strikes my fancy. The Rochester War Memorial (now Blue Cross Arena) is home to the Amerks (hockey), Nighthawks (field hockey), Lancers (soccer) and Razorsharks (basketball) and they frequently bring in local bands to play before the games start. Being a Runaways fan I have to love a band named Cherry Bomb which opened up this past weekend for the Razorsharks playing some cool rock N roll to get the fans in a frenzy and even the team mascot got into the act.

The Razorsharks won that game in OT in their bid to be the #1 seed in their conference. After the game I went to the local Finger Lakes Casino to check out the AMSoil Championship Snocross Series. This is the same event that recently played the Silverdome. I started the evening checking out the buffet which while a bit pricey was delicious.

I then went to watch the racing which was more exciting than I thought it would be. The track was outdoors but luckily the sun was out for a bit. The events took place with 4-15 snow mobiles racing. The earlier qualifiers were about 7 laps and usually ended with 1 snow mobile getting the lead and winning the race. Later events went more laps and those got exciting. When talking 18 laps, there are more chances for mistakes and lead changes as snow mobiles start lapping other racers. That allowed for certain racers to make up distance as the last race saw 4 lead changes with the last coming during the last turn on the track. You can catch the Farmington, NY race on NBC Sports at 5PM on Sunday, March 4th. The recent race from the Silverdome can be see on the same channel/same time on March 11th.

After the event, I did some gambling and won 85 bucks which was pretty exciting. I used that money to buy tickets for some upcoming concerts including Hot Tuna, Lady Antebellum and a down payment for Van Halen. Speaking of concerts, here are a few coming up that I would recommend.

Wednesday (2/29) - Orgy @ Machine Shop

Thursday (3/01) - Electric Fire Babies @ Small's

Friday (3/02) - The Sights @ Small's, Rick Springfield @ Fillmore Theatre

Saturday (3/03) - Commander Cody Band @ Callahan's, Dutch Pink and the Muggs @ Small's, Black Keys @ Joe Louis Arena, Outsiders and Badfinger w/Otis Day @ Meyer Theater (at MCCC in Monroe)

Sunday (3/04) - Southside Johnny & Asbury Dukes @ Magic Bag, Coco Montoya @ Callahan's

Monday (3/05) - Coco Montoya @ Callahan's

Show Preview: Zeds Dead, AraabMUZIK and Omar Linx ROMT, Sat. Mar. 3rd

2012-02-27T22:24:00.001-05:00

I had the chance to catch Zeds Dead a few months ago at the Global Dub Festival. They were the find of the night for me, playing something way beyond what a typical dupstep set might include. It was trippy, bombastic and pulled out tricks from the past as well as the future. So, it's a treat for me to see them again this Saturday at Royal Oak Music Theatre.
Also on the bill is hip hop mixmaster, Araabmuzik, which Spin featured in their underground hip hop issue. I've listened to his Electronic Dream mixtape and it's an amazing array of trance, dub and hip hop. His latest is Instrumental University which has instrumental tracks from some of the rap tracks he's supplied the music on. One last reason to go is to catch the GL&M Dolls as they always provide a show a little bit something more than anticipated.

Show Review: Big Gigantic, Paper Diamond and K@Dog

2012-02-26T22:14:00.002-05:00

Royal Oak Music Theatre held another stellar dubstep show Friday night. K@dog started the night with his downtempo set of electronic music sprinkled with some high energy moments that was a preview of the onslaught of sound to come.

K@Dog

Paper Diamond followed and having just played here a short few weeks ago, many of the crowd knew what to expect as they piled towards the main stage area.While Paper Diamond's set up was a sparse laptop and his iPad, he made the most of it playing tracks from his latest ep, Levitate and adding in his hip hop and dance remixes.

Paper Diamond

Big Gigantic, the headliner of the night, took the stage with the duo playing in large cylinder columns housing them and their instruments. Unlike other dubstep artists, Big Gigantic bring something special to their sound with their main instruments being saxophone and drums. The sax and drums played an even larger part of their show with their thematic songs that build up and sustain themselves with jazz-inspired sections that kept the crowd dancing the entire night.

Big Gigantic

Lastly, I cannot blog about a dubstep show without including about the spectacularly dressed and energetic crowd. The crowd for this night was what might be best described as "intergalactic hippie dress" with shiny clothes with a mock rasta-touch. Here's a slideshow my entire set of pics from the show.

This Post by Mikel O.D. of

VOLBEAT

2012-02-26T21:51:00.002-05:00

Volbeat is a very unique sounding metal band hailing from Copenhagen, Denmark. The band has best been described as a blend and fusion of rock, metal, and rockabilly, citing such artists as Elvis Presley and Megadeth as major influences.
Beyond Hell/Above Heaven is Volbeat’s fourth full length studio album released in 2010. The most recognizable song being “A Warrior’s Call”.The song was written for Danish boxer Mikkel Kessler and even starts out with the line ‘Let’s get ready to rumble!’ There’s even a battle cry of “Fight! Fight! Fight!” that’s shouted by Kessler himself. It’s a larger-than-life song from a unique band.
Just in case you were wondering where the name Volbeat comes from, it’s a combination of Volume and Beat put together.

Archie Powell and the Exports - Quarters - Milwaukee - 2/24/12

2012-02-26T20:06:00.003-05:00

It has been probably been about 20 years since I have been to Quarters, a music venue in Milwaukee’s Riverwest neighborhood. Now called Quarters Rock and Roll Palace, this venue is greatly improved . Kudos to the bookers, in which they are bringing bands in that otherwise, would never perform in Milwaukee. Friday night was Archie Powell and the Exports, a four piece from Chicago via Madison, WI. They have released one cd so far, “Skip Work” and have a new release scheduled for May. The second they hit the stage, the crowd went crazy. Patrons were singing along to every song, frantically jumping up and down playing to the tremendous energy of the band. This is no Dave Matthews sing along, this was a PBR fueled “we love these guys” adoration. The band performs sharp three minute loud rock and roll songs. Pure power garage pop, tons of hooks and catchy rhythms. Every song remains in your head and then becomes your favorite Archie Powell song. Until the next one. This is a band that loves to play live and play together. Reviews I’ve read compare them to Elvis Costello and Weezer. I don’t see it, as they are much better than Weezer. I can hear a minor influence of Tom Petty in the vocals and some of the choruses reminded me of s slightly more energetic Camper Van Beethoven. Musically, it did remind me of the great power pop band from Nashville, The Shazam. The only downside to the evening was the insanely drunk guy in front who kept throwing punches at people. It was entertaining to watch to the band try and kick him to keep him away from the stage.

Upcoming: Fight for Air Climb, March 4th

2012-02-26T09:03:00.000-05:00

I had heard of these being a big deal in other cities (you know, the ones with sprawling skylines and tons of skyscrapers?) but I never even realized that Detroit had one of its own and apparently, it has been an annual event for the past few years. On March 4th, you can become either a hard core stair-climbing competitor, ready to elbow people out of the way as you round the corners, or just a casual climber out to support a great cause in the 'Fight for Air' Stair Climb at the GM Renaissance Center. The event is a fund-raiser for the American Lung Association, with money raised going towards education, research, and advocacy for pulmonary diseases and conditions such as asthma, COPD, and lung cancer.

The full climb is 70 flights, for a total of 1035 steps (and an elevator ride back down, which I imagine will smell really awesome); a half event is also available. They even have a Firefighter Full Gear Challenge, where participants are timed during their climb to the top in full firefighter personal protective equipment. You can join either as an individual or as a team, but each participant is responsible for the registration fee and raising a minimum of $100 in donations.

Kind of a nice change-up for runners or athletes looking for a slightly different type of event to participate in rather than your typical 5K. And to give you something to work towards and feel inadequate about, apparently the fastest time logged is less than 6 minutes. I don't know about you, but my quads and lungs are buring just thinking about that.

Show Review: Guns N Roses - The Fillmore Feb 21

2012-02-24T21:44:00.001-05:00

Billed as "Once In a Lifetime," Axl Rose and company roared into The Fillmore on Tuesday night for a rare, up-close and personal theater date.

Local grunge heroes Sponge opened the show with a quick four-song set leaving the audience anxiously awaiting the headliners. I was curious to see what G N R would bring to the table in such an intimate environment and they did not disappoint.

Hitting stage at 11:30pm, the band ripped through a grueling 3 hour set of classic Guns material and select cuts from Chinese Democracy. It was truly thrilling to see a legendary Arena-Rock juggernaut in such an intimate environment. The most epic moments came during the blistering Appetite tracks like Nighttrain, It's So Easy and the finale Paradise City. There were several bathroom breaks built into the set including several solos and interludes, but seeing gems like Estranged and Civil War up close made the set well worth the wait.

Although Axl is pushing 50 and was battling an illness during the show (his voice gave out a few times), he and his band rocked with an energy rarely seen in bands half their age. As the confetti settled around 2:30am and the band took a final bow, the audience was exhausted and G N R was back on top of the rock universe, almost as if they never left.

Show Review - 12th Planet-Flinch Magic Stick Feb. 17th 2012

2012-02-24T19:57:00.000-05:00

(A Flinch moment from the show)

Last Friday I caught the 12th Planet "The End Is Near Show" at the Magic Stick, and let me tell you, if the end was near I would have left our world with some good memories. The show was a late night affair that had local DJ Satta Don Dada opening while the always photogenic crowd piled in.

While the crowd danced a little before the main acts, it was when Flinch took the stage that the crowd really went crazy.

Flinch's set, which didn't start until midnight, was a frenzied attack of beats, samples and unmatched grooves. 12th Planet's set started around 1:30am and his set was a memorable mix from his new ep, that you can (and should) download for free. The night didn't end until near 3am when the crown stumbled out on legs weary from dancing, sore eyes from the blinding sights, and bleeding eardrums from the pulsing sounds. The 12th Planet tour isn't over yet and if your reading this with a chance to catch him, well you better buy those tix because the end is near!

This Post by Mikel O.D. of

2012-02-24T19:12:00.001-05:00

Sent From Dietroit

TGIFAF! Free Art Friday

2012-02-24T11:58:00.004-05:00

Join in on the hunt with Free Art Friday! It's a like a scavenger hunt in the city for cool pieces of art that are free to take home. Here's how it works:

1. An artist creates a custom piece of art – anything from a painting to a screenprint to a sculpture.

2. They write their Twitter handle and the hashtag #FAFDET as well as "Free Art Friday Detroit" on the back of the piece. ...

3. Then they hide their art somewhere in the city.

4. The artist posts a photo clue of the drop spot to the FAFDET Facebook page and tweets with hashtag #FAFDET.

5. Anyone who finds it is free to take the artwork home. We just ask that they tweet or post a photo to this page letting us know it has found a good home.

Good luck!

For more info:
https://www.facebook.com/#!/FAFDET

GOOD MORNING GIVEAWAY - Tickets to Dim Mak's DEADMEAT Tour 2/25

2012-02-24T09:06:00.003-05:00

To support his latest album WONDERLAND, STEVE AOKI is launching his biggest tour ever: ROCKSTAR ENERGY DRINK PRESENTS DIM MAK’S DEADMEAT TOUR 2012 powered by Sol Republic, set to travel across North America throughout winter 2012 and visit some of the most renowned theaters and concert arenas including THE FILLMORE on 2/25. For the DEADMEAT Tour, AOKI will partner with dubstep’s hottest new producer and Dim Mak label mate Datsik. He’ll also appear at Beyond Wonderland in Southern California on March 17 and Ultra Music Festival in Miami on March 25.

MCB will be at the show and we want YOU to join us! Score free tickets just a day before the show. We need you to email us by noon today with DEADMEAT in the subject and we will hook you up with a pair of tickets to the show!

GOOD LUCK

MCB is Detroit Electronic Music

UPCOMING: SHREK THE MUSICAL February 28- March 11 at The Fisher Theatre in Detroit

2012-02-24T08:51:00.005-05:00

SHREK THE MUSICAL, based on the Oscar®-winning DreamWorks film that started it all, brings the hilarious story of everyone’s favorite ogre to life on stage with a Detroit residency for two weeks.

In a faraway kingdom turned upside down, things get ugly when an unseemly ogre – not a handsome prince – shows up to rescue a feisty princess. Throw in a donkey who won’t shut up, a villain with a SHORT temper, a cookie with an attitude and over a dozen other fairy tale misfits, and you’ve got the kind of mess that calls for a real hero. Luckily, there’s one on hand… and his name is Shrek.

The show features a score of 19 all-new songs,laughs,dancing and breathtaking scenery.

Fisher Theatre
3011 W. Grand Blvd., Detroit
Tickets $29-$79
Call (800) 982-2787

The show runs from February 28, 2012 to March 11, 2012
Showtimes are:
Tuesday - Saturday at 7:30pm
Sunday Evenings at 6:30pm
Saturday Matinee at 2:00pm
Sunday Matinee at 1:00pm
Special signed performance on Sunday, March 4, 2012 at 6:30pm.

Children 5 and under not admitted to this event.

For more info visit: http://www.broadwayindetroit.com

Upcoming Show:This Friday- Black Jake & The Carnies with Rock and Rummage at Woodruff's

2012-02-23T22:22:00.003-05:00

This Friday(Feb. 24) At Woodruff's in Ypsilanti !

Black Jake & the Carnies

Ryan Racine & Gas For Less

Bucktown Kickback

Rock N Rummage

$5.00 Cover
Doors @ 9:00
Music @ 10:00

Woodruff's is located at: 36 East Cross Street, Ypsilanti, MI 48198

K@Dog Part of Big Gigantic Show tomorrow!

2012-02-23T22:20:00.003-05:00

K@Dog ("pronounced Cat Dog") is opening the Big Gigantic show tomorrow (Friday) at Royal Oak Music Theatre. I saw K@Dog warm up a few weeks ago for Paper Diamond who is also on the Big Gigantic bill and while his set is something completely different compared to other "high energy" dubstep acts, his music works perfectly. His downtempo, reggae inspired mix got the night starts the night out right as the crowd mingles and the night pick ups at a more relaxed pace. K@Dog has played extensively through Michigan and often plays sets along electronic acts that are not necessarily dupstep. Our Detroit dubstep scene continues to be an exciting and diverse experience that never disappoints. Here's a video I put together with K@Dog that will give you a pretty good idea of what to expect from him.

This Post by Mikel O.D. of

2012-02-23T21:44:00.002-05:00

This Saturday!
February 25th, 2012 at:

The Roseville VFW Hall
Corp. Neil W. Reid Post #2358
25671 Gratiot Roseville, MI48066

11AM to 6PM - $3 admission,
children 10 and under are FREE

10AM Early Bird Admission for$5

Don't miss the 10:45AM drawing during
Early Bird Admission for a
Very Good copy of

Amazing Spider-Man #39 (1966)
Green Goblin appearance!

Early Bird Admission is $5.00

Guests: Jordan Trovillion, Arvell Jones, 501st Legion

"Rock of Ages" Review by Peter Schorn

2012-02-22T08:00:00.000-05:00

Do you like crackers? I like crackers; Wheat Thins in particular. I buy these big 40 oz. bulk boxes at Costco which makes them quite inexpensive compared to the grocery store boxes. Costco has been inconsistent in stocking them and so when they are in stock, I buy several boxes so I don't run out. The reason I'm mentioning this is because I wish I'd brought one of those big ol' boxes of Wheat Thins to the Fisher Theater during Rock of Ages because they had about 600 megatons of cheese on the stage!

And I mean that as a compliment. Sincerely.

Rock of Ages (running through Sunday, Feb. 26, 2012) is a rollicking hoot of a time at the theater that promises to "melt your face" and damn near accomplishes its mission. Stringing together a melange of hair metal tunes from the Eighties, the show is the bittersweet story of Drew (Dominique Scott) and Sherrie (Shannon Mullen), two kids far from home on the Sunset Strip (of L.A., duh) with dreams of stardom. They meet at The Bourbon Room, a venerable club that is facing demolition at the hands of a rapacious German developer. In the hopes of saving his club, Dennis (Matt Ban) calls in a favor from Stacee Jaxx (Matt Nolan), who suffers from a terminal case of Lead Singer's Disease and is about to quit his band, Arsenal (who are the house band at the back of the stage). One thing leads to another and Stacee gets his hooks into Sherrie and the young lovers are torn apart and the club is doomed and all is lost.

Or is it?

Come on! It's the Eighties and it's hair metal and Rock of Ages literally has "Don't Stop Believin'" in its rock & roll heart! My last trip to the rock musical theater was the dour Green Day's American Idiot and I went into the show with fairly low expectations. All I really knew was that the Constantine guy from American Idol starred on Broadway (clip from the 2009 Tony Awards below) and that a movie starring Tom Cruise (as Stacee Jaxx?!?) is coming this summer (see trailer below). But from the opening "turn off your cell phones" video narrated by Whitesnake's David Coverdale and 1-2 punch of David Lee Roth and Poison tunes, I had a big ol' goofy smile on my face and the crowd was also along for the ride.

Freed from the constraints of a single album like American Idiot was, Rock of Ages is able to pillage material from Bon Jovi, REO Speedwagon, Pat Benatar, Quiet Riot, Foreigner and much, much more. (It wasn't until later I realized how many good Motley Crue and Guns 'n' Roses tunes could've been used; they must've refused to license like Def Leppard is specifically mentioned as not doing in the intro.) It's really clever how the song choices propel the plot as well as give audience members of a certain age Aqua Net flashbacks.

What's also cool is how the show is very knowing about what it is - when you name your female lead "Sherrie Christian" so you can use Steve Perry and Night Ranger tunes, you're dealing in heavy meta - but never condescends to the material or the audience. Everyone knows what they're there for and the mutual rapport makes for beautiful feedback. It also helps that as formulaic as the story is we instantly like the characters, even the villains. Not to keep thrashing on American Idiot, but the characters were unsympathetic, nihilistic twits who deserved every bit of misery they reaped for themselves. Rock of Ages makes you want things to work out even though you know darn well it's not going to end up in a murder-suicide.

Scott and Mullen are a couple of cute kids, but the supporting cast is rock solid as well beginning with Justin Colombo as Lonny, the narrator/emcee/sound man; (Russell Brand will play this in the movie); he is flamboyant (nudge, wink) and hilarious. Nolan's Jaxx treads the clever/stupid line without toppling into parody. But the out-of-nowhere show stealer is Amma Osei who brings serious soul pipes to Justice, the "gentleman's club" owner who takes in Sherrie and puts her on a pole; the first break in her opening number drew spontaneous applause.

While it's tempting to suggest waiting for the movie to see Rock of Ages at a fraction of the price of a theater ticket, it's clearly not going to be the same experience even with Adam Shankman, director of the fun musical Hairspray, calling the shots. The live Rock of Ages is just too much exuberant fun to miss. I could get all punny and tell you how "It Ain't Nothing But A Good Time", but I wouldn't stoop to such cheap wordplay. Just catch it while you can. \m/ ^_^ \m/

http://www.rockofagesmusical.com/

Rusko - in Ann Arbor Tomorrow

2012-02-21T21:43:00.002-05:00

Rusko, one of the world's premier DJs will be in Ann Arbor playing tomorrow at the Necto. He'll be bringing his wall of sound dance music playing past material and featuring new songs from his upcoming release, Songs, which is due out March 27th. In anticipation of the release, Rusko, presents the early "Somebody to Love." If by chance you miss Rusko tomorrow, or he's so good you need a repeat performance, he'll be back in the area on Sunday, May 6th at Royal Oak Music Theatre.

"Somebody To Love" & The Sigma Remix are out now!
US ITUNES - http://bit.ly/STLDownloadMadDecent
UK ITUNES - http://bit.ly/UKSTLDownload

BEATPORT - http://bit.ly/STLMadDecentBeatport

THIS SAT: Subgenius Devival feat. AMINO ACIDS

2012-02-21T10:18:00.001-05:00

Eternal MCB fave, the late lamented Amino Acids, will be beaming back to earth for the traditional Subgenius Detroit Devival at Small's this Saturday. The last time the Aminos played Small's was such a fan-fucking-tastic time, I blacked out and woke up in someone else's body.

DETROIT SUBGENIUS DEVIVAL 2012

Saturday 25 February 2012

Small's

10339 Conant, Hamtramck

The Michigan variety of SubGenius doesn't seem to be as much about preachy talky part, preferring instead to book a whole lot of strange musicians to play at the same show.

1:00 - The Amino Acids - main stage
12:40 - JWPP - floor stage
12:20 - Man Inc. - main stage
12:00 - Freak Ache - middle room
11:40 - Best Idea Ever! - floor stage
11:20 - Coffin Feeder - main stage
11:00 - Three Hives - middle room
10:40 - Tell All Your Friends - floor stage
10:20 - Songs From The Moon - main stage
10:00 - Boron Nuzzle - middle room
9:40 - Karmic Lava - floor stage
9:20 - Opening Brag, etc - main stage

I had a few weird notions about what we hadn't done already at Detroit devival's and I couldn't shake a few ideas. It sounded fun to have loud bands play on the floor, right in front of people. It sounded fun to have a separate, smaller area for the bands that don't sing and don't need a PA. It sounded fun to make a main stage a cakewalk for a venue's soundperson.

This will roll off without a hitch. We have good people working on it.

Thanks!
"Bob" be praised!
Rev. Scotty

Also in the bar-room, there will be DJ's, like:
Two Beans
The Abominable DJ
Rev. Benny B
A. Garcia,
for one-hour sets - order yet to be determined. There will also be stuff for sale. People gotta get over, yo.

IT'S ONLY $7!
$10 for ALL AGES!
PRAISE "BOB!"

This event is officially sanctioned by The SubGenius Foundation.
Official Ordainment packages will be for sale.

For more info about the Church Of TheSubGenius:
http://www.subgenius.com/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Subgenius

TONIGHT- Guns N' Roses with Sponge at The Fillmore (RARE CLUB SHOW)

2012-02-21T08:56:00.003-05:00

GUNS N' ROSES hit Detroit for a "intimate club date" TONIGHT, Tuesday,Feb. 21, at the Fillmore Detroit.

Local greats SPONGE will be opening the show.

Tickets are still available so don't miss this rare chance to see Axl and the gang.

Wild At Heart

2012-02-20T22:18:00.001-05:00

Wild Bill Ketelhut provides the "blog" to this anti-blog

Wild At Heart

We had some interesting weather here over the weekend which caused me to rework my plans. One item that got added to my itinerary was checking out the area roller derby team in a charity event double-headers as The B-Sides beat the Word from Worchester, MA and the Roc Stars lost a hard fought match to Tri-City Thunder from Kitchner, ON. The last match saw the Thunder get a 51-8 lead which the Stars managed to erode and took a 87-81 lead off a 29 point jam. However, the Thunder hung in and managed a 22 point jam to end the match. I miss hanging out with Miss Canada and Crash Baby back in Detroit and while there have been a lot of roster changes (and what seems to be a whole extra team), don’t forget to check out the local girls in Detroit. Make sure to check them out at http://www.detroitrollerderby.com/schedule.html as it seems they have a match coming up on March 3^rd. If you happen to visit Rochester, you can check out their schedule at http://www.rocderby.com/.

On a more somber music note, I know a lot of people are talking about Whitney but I’d like to bring it back to Detroit with the passing of bassist Michael David. After dropping out of the fine arts program at Wayne State University, Davis became the bassist forDetroit's radical proto-punk band the MC5 in 1964, replacing original bassist Pat Burrows. After the band broke up in the 70’s, he did get back into art doing abstracts thanks to a stint in prison. In recent years, he had done a variety of design work for MC5 merch and skateboards, as well as having his painting ‘White Panther/Big World’ appear on the Cleopatra Records release “MC5: The Very Best of MC5”. I saw him with DKT-MC5 with a kick-ass show and here is a video of one of their Europe shows.

Going to end this week once again with a list of upcoming shows I would recommend:

Tuesday (2/21) - Polka Floyd @ Small’s

Wednesday (2/22) – Taddy Porter @ Pike Room, Wynton Marsalis w/Lincoln Center Orchestra @ Hill Auditorium (Ann Arbor)

Thursday (2/23) – Silverstein opens for August Burns Red @ St Andrews Hall

Friday (2/24) – Anvil @ Token Lounge, Jane’s Addiction @ Fillmore, Peter Frampton @ Caesar’s Windsor Casino

Enjoy and have a good week.

More Pictures from Dirty Show

2012-02-19T22:38:00.000-05:00

Friday was my first experience at the Dirty Show and I have to tell you I had a great time observing the dirty, dirty pictures and talking to the art admirers. If you haven't made it down to the Dirty Show or want to go again there's one more chance next Saturday, Feb. 25th, 7pm-2am.

THE EROTIC POETRY & MUSIC FESTIVAL 25th Anniversary Show!

2012-02-18T23:47:00.000-05:00

"An eclectic celebration of the erotic arts!"

The infamous event known as the Erotic Poetry & Music Festival celebrates its 25th Anniversary this year! It is one of the oldest community arts festivals in Detroit. The festival is an “eclectic celebration of the erotic arts!” It features provocative poetry, dirty spoken word, erotic art, music and dance performances by some of the city's top performers. It promises to be an evening you won’t forget!

The date is: SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 9 pm, 21 & over are welcome. Admission is $10. Partial proceeds benefit the Michigan-based non-profit organization "Paws with a Cause," who provide and train leader dogs for the disabled. The event will be held at THE CORKTOWN TAVERN located at 1716 Michigan Avenue in Corktown. (313.964.5103)

This year we are pleased to have Detroit’s premier performance artist, Satori Circus. Other highlights will be Detroit Dizzy Dames, Hayley Jane and Audra Kubat, poetry readings by Blue Dogma Poet-Dena Luckett and spoken word by Lisa Vicious. A special out of town guest is erotic talk show host, author and founder of Libidacoria.com, Kristie LeVangie. The visual art portion of the show features artists Chopper Peshkepia, Jeff Hocking and Tara Lazaroff exhibiting their works.

Poetry & Music performances by:

Satori Circus
Hayley Jane
Audra Kubat
Detroit DizzyDames
Blue Dogma Poet-Dena Luckett
Lisa Vicious
Abida Blaze & Blazing Belly Dance
Kristie LeVangie
Tara Lazaroff
Scott Boman
Jason Peters
Say Yes Maam

Art by: Chopper Peshkepia, Jeff Hocking, Tara Lazaroff

Hosted by: The Impaler & Peter Schorn

Sexy Wares by: Sweet Shalon's Intimate Pleasures

Erotic Readings by: Michael Janis

Erotic Edibles by: Debbie Richey

www.facebook.com/EroticPoetryAndMusicFestival

REVIEW: No.VI Chophouse - "Lover's Feast" by The Olive Beats

2012-02-18T12:01:00.000-05:00

Recently MCB was invited to join the No.VI Chophouse in Novi for their "Around the World" event, and we were graciously asked to come back for their "Lover's Feast" last Monday to share in their celebration of romance and warm us up for Valentine's Day.

The menu created by Executive Chef Jeremy Kalmus was rich with decadent ingredients and well-balanced flavors. As always, the plates look like paintings. The Lover's Feast or any of the other events featured at No.VI are excellent for a date night. The chef has carefully planned the menu for you, so there's no thinking. The ingredients are prepared to showcase the beauty of the food and then thoughtfully paired with the perfect wine by their sommelier, so there's no shopping. The different courses are wide-ranging and exotic offerings that have something for everyone, so there's adventure without arguing. It's literally a no-brainer!

Adding charm to the already impressive cuisine, the staff is prompt, friendly and accommodating (a rare breed these days). Manager Kelly Tocco took excellent care of us throughout the evening and Chef Jeremy even came out after this busy event to introduce himself and talk with us. Having treats like dainty quail eggs, sparkling wines and lobster claws served with such smiling hospitality is surreal.

Lover's Feast Menu

First Course

Tuna Carpaccio

Olive Tapenade, Mini Egg, Haricot Vert, Citrus, Potato Gaufrette

L Mawby Brut “Blanc De Blanc”

A light, clean tasting and very pretty course served with a refreshing "Blanc De Blanc" sparkling wine from Michigan made with chardonnay grapes.

Second Course

Butter Poached Lobster Claw

Red Curry, Crispy Rice, Smoked Corn

Crios Torrontes 2010

The red curry and smoked corn were amazing, I enjoyed this course the most. The Crios Torrontes cut perfectly through the delicious smoke of the corn.

Third Course

Maple Leaf Farm Seared Duck Breast

Roasted Acorn Squash, House Made Sage and Apple Foie Gras Sausage, Morel Emulsion

Ken Wright Pinot Noir 2009

Earthy and rich with a touch of sweetness from the squash. This course had my favorite wine of the night. The perfect balance of fruity and dry, the Ken Wright Pino Noir 2009 was so good, I will be looking for thismyself.

Fourth Course

Sweet Potato Ravioli

Braised Short Rib, Beurre Monte, Basil Oil, Herb Salad 

Sean Minor “Four Bears” 2008

We cleaned our plates! The perfectly braised short rib balanced on top of the tender ravioli was wonderfully satisfying, yet not too heavy. The micro-greens and basil oil kept the plate fresh and the "Four Bears" was the perfect compliment. I think this courseshould be on the menu every day.

Dessert

Chocolate Tasting 

Chocolate Churro, Oreo and Cocoa Soil, Salted Chocolate Mousse, House Made Cocoa

Rosa Regale Brachetto D'Acqui 2010

I was amazed at how well the sparkling "Rosa Regale" went with all that chocolate. The Chocolate Tasting was as delicious as it was exciting - just look at the picture. This one speaks for itself!

I very much enjoyed my Lover's Feast experience and look forward to visiting the No.VI Chophouse again soon. Hope to see you there! For more information, please visit http://mattprenticerg.com/

Dirty Show Held Over!

2012-02-17T11:17:00.000-05:00

ONLY 3 DAYS LEFT!
DIRTY SHOW 13 - FEB 17,18 & 25 - DETROIT
EROTIC: ART • PERFORMANCE • DANCE • PEOPLE
February 10-25, 2012 • Bert's Warehouse Theater • 2739 Russell St. Detroit, MI

Exhibition Schedule
THIS WEEKEND

FEBRUARY 17, Friday Evening
7:00pm – 2:00am | 18 & Over | Tickets $20 Advance - $25 At Door | Cash bar 

Online Sales END at 4:00PM, On Feb 17th.

FEBRUARY 18, Saturday Evening
7:00pm – 2:00am | 21 & Over | Tickets $20 Advance - $25 At Door | Cash bar

 Online Sales END at 4:00PM, On Feb 18th.  

NEXT WEEKEND - HELD OVER

FEBRUARY 25, Saturday Evening - ONE LAST NIGHT!
7:00pm – 2:00am | 18 & Over | Tickets $20 Advance - $25 At Door | Cash bar 

Online Sales END at 4:00PM, On Feb 25th.

BOURBON ST. MEETS MAIN ST. - RORA 8TH ANNUAL MARDI GRAS & MUSIC FESTIVAL

2012-02-16T23:10:00.001-05:00

Royal Oak Community Farm currently has been leasing the 11 Mile site from the Royal Oak School District for usage as the Royal Oak Community Farm. Their contract will not be renewed for the 2012 calendar year, and are currently seeking another Royal Oak Location. Farm profits go to the Royal Oak Foundation for Public Education.

Royal Oak Restaurant Associations 8th Annual Mardi Gras & Music Festival will be held on Fat Tuesday, February 21, 2012. Sponsored by Bud Light Featuring Bud Light Platinum and Media Sponsorship by Real Detroit and Social Connection.

Ticket Sales: A $10 donation to Royal Oak Community Farm includes special drink specials for participants’ only, featuring Mardi Gras Menus, live music at almost every venue, a free shuttle to get participants from venue to venue. Tickets are currently available at all participating venues. Door Sales will be available throughout the night, at any participating venue.

Check-In Check-in starts at 6pm-10pm, where you bought your ticket. Pick up your beads, VIP lanyard that will get you drink specials at every participating venue. Those that don't have the lanyard will not be allowed drink special prices. Drink specials last all night. You'll also get an entertainment itinerary, and a scavenger hunt sheet. There will be a shuttle provided from 6pm-1:30am.

Scavenger Hunt Rules: Where you bought your ticket will be your starting point. You must have 12 correct answers to be eligible to win one of our prizes. Feel free to roam around town at your own pace to complete the scavenger hunt. Also, on your scavenger hunt sheet, you'll need to get your sheet "stamped" by our volunteers by 10pm, after 10PM the bartender/or security should be able to stamp your sheet for you to verify your presence. All scavenger hunt sheets must be turned into the bartender by last call. Be sure to fill out your contact information at the bottom of our scavenger hunt sheet. Information will be used for contact purposes only, and will NOT be used or sold for mailing list purposes.

Winners will be contacted, and announced within the next week.

Top prizes include Plasma TV, Fire Kindle, and a gift basket worth over $300.

Participating Venues & Entertainment include:

Andiamo ............…………………………………………....James Wailin & Bobby East

BlackFinn American Saloon

Gemmayze Lebanese Kitchen and Lounge …..................................................DJs Stone Owl with Special Guests

Inn Place

Lily's Seafood

Lockhart's BBQ

Mr. B's ……………………………………………..Electric Blues by the "Juke Dukes"

O'Tooles ....…………………………………………………… Nathan Montgomery Trio

Oak City Grille ..............……………………………………………………………Nate Stevens

Oxford Inn ..........…………………………………………………………….......Soul Divide

Pronto! .....…………………………………………………………..Mardi Gras Video DJ

Royal Oak Brewery .............……………Free Jambalaya Samples & New Orleans Jazz Music

The Rock ……………………………….......The Sun Messengers & Mardi Gras Menu

Tom's Oyster Bar ..........…………………..………Bud Light, Featuring New Orleans’s food

Woody's Diner ..……….Dal Bouey $2.50 bud light, $3 Hurricanes, New Orleans Pasta

526 Main St ...................................................................................Paul Vornhagen

5th Avenue ..................................................................................Brothers Groove

For more information please visit rorainfo.com or contact Katie at k.bonnivier@gmail.com

UPCOMING: DETROIT BIKE CITY - 1st Annual Detroit Bike Show & Swap Meet - Cobo Center - March 24th 2012

2012-02-16T15:14:00.001-05:00

Detroit Bike City will be held on March 24, 2012

from 10:00 am6:00 pm

in The Michigan Hall at COBO Center.

1 Washington Blvd, Detroit, MI 48226

Detroit Bike City is Detroit's first annual bicycle show and swap meet. Offering 100+ vendors from all over the Midwest the opportunity to show, sell and swap bicycles, parts and everything bikes. Bringing together the whole community with all forms of bicycles from road and racing to mountain and BMX, Detroit Bike City has something the enthusiast or casual rider can enjoy, plus a full day of bicycle activities and demos for the whole family. A real chance to get some great deals, be sure to come out to Detroit Bike City to buy, sell, swap and browse.

Admission is $8 and is free for kids under 12

Individuals are welcome to bring in small items for trade i.e. a hub or pedals (anything other than complete bikes, frames/sets, or wheels) at no additional cost to admission.

Individuals wishing to sell and/or swap complete bikes, frame sets, or wheels please refer to the vendor information packet.

Check out the FaceBook Event Page

http://www.detroitbikecity.org/about/

NEXT FRI: CD Release Party for Imminent Sonic Destruction @ Magic Bag

2012-02-16T13:01:00.000-05:00

Local legends-to-be, Imminent Sonic Destruction, are kicking off their debut CD at the Magic Bag in Ferndale next Friday. Know your Detroit metal: Lick them on Facebook and grab your bonus track.

IMMINENT SONIC DESTRUCTION

CD Release Party
with Radar Pilot, Quick Ritual & Switchline

24 February 2012

Magic Bag

22920 Woodward Avenue, Ferndale

$8.00
Doors open 8pm

Premier: Anya Marina "Notice Me"

2012-02-15T20:04:00.000-05:00

I'd like to pull your attention away from Lana Del Rey and Adele for a few quick minutes and give relative newcomer Anya Marina some well deserved ears. She's premiering the track "Notice Me" from her forthcoming release "Felony Flats" on Atlantic Records which is coming out on March 13. It's a great song that relies more on guitar, bass and drums all fronted by her lovely voice that kind of reminds me of some of the sweet stuff that Yo La Tengo and other Matador artists were putting out more than a few years ago. Anya has some local heritage here in Michigan as she grew up in Ann Arbor then moved west for Califormia and now resides in Portland, Oregon. Besides being a singer, she's also quite the writer with her ongoing column on Huffington Post "Adventures of A Lady Rocker:I Can't Get No..." A past moment of hers that I'll have to look up involves her covering T.I.'s "Whatever You Like" which was later used in an episode of Gossip Girl. Give "Notice Me" a listen and you'll hear the drums kick in the most awesome way at about 1:30 seconds into the track. The name drops to Purple Rain and Velvet Underground in the song also illustrate her taste in good music.
Notice Me - Anya Marina

MOVEMENT - Detroit Electronic Music Festival - Phase 1 Lineup Announced!

2012-02-15T17:58:00.003-05:00

Just 101 days to go... Paxahau has announced the Phase 1 Lineup for this year's MOVEMENT aka DEMF

Headlined by Maya Jane Coles, THE WIZARD himself (Jeff Mills), Public Enemy and Lil' Louis, this year is sure to pack the Plaza and make for another amazing Techno-weekend. The list so far is filled with old favorites and new legends, not to mention there are a few Lady DJs on the lineup this year, always a nice treat.

Phase 1 Lineup:

Public Enemy, Lil' Louis, Jeff Mills, Brenmar, Busy P, Carl Craig, Carlo Lio, Cassy, Claude VonStroke, Damian Lazarus, Danny Daze, Davide Squillace, Derrick Carter, DJ Sneak, dOP, Droog, Earl Mixxin McKinney, Eddie Fowlkes, Greg Wilson, Ian Pooley, Jay Haze, Josh Wink, Juan Atkins, Kevin Saunderson, Keys N Krates, Kyle Hall b2b Jay Daniel, Lindstrom, Loco Dice, Maceo Plex, Major Lazer, Mathew Jonson, Marco Carola, Mick Hickaby, Monty Luke, Mr. Oizo, Nadasrom, Nina Kraviz, No Regular Play, Radio Slave, Rick Wilhite, Roni Size, Salva, Slow Hands, Stacey Pullen, Steve Bug, Subb-an, Tale of Us, The Martinez Brothers, Todd Terje, Wolf + Lamb

Stay tuned to MCB as we always provide full coverage leading up to and during MOVEMENT - for more info about the event or to purchase tickets click here

CASTING CALL

2012-02-15T11:09:00.001-05:00

Show Preview: 12th Planet and Flinch Friday, Feb. 17th, the Magic Stick

2012-02-14T20:00:00.003-05:00

This Friday is another one of those "I saw him when..." shows as Dubstep DJ/producer extraordinaire 12th Planet plays the Magic Stick along with his partner in grime, Flinch. Scion A/V is hosting the show so I bet there's so good swag to be had as well. There's also a contest you can enter to get to meet 12th Planet and his friends before the show, just go here.
12th Planet was recently featured in Spin, co-produced a track for Korn and played a 50-date tour with Skrillex. He has also lent his signature crushing bass and resonating energy to remixes for MIA, John Legend, Travis Barker and more, and has collaborations coming out with Dizzee Rascal, among others. You can download his new ep for free "The End Is Near" which has a killer title track and video, (see below).

This Post by Mikel O.D. of

You still have time to catch The Dirty Show 13...

2012-02-14T13:52:00.000-05:00

A tradition for more than a decade now, Valentine's Day in Detroit is as much about the Dirty Show as it is about that itch you won't talk about. You've still got time to make it to one of the most badass gigs our city hosts every year.

TONIGHT February 14

7pm-2am

Friday February 17

7pm-2am

Saturday February 18

7pm-2am

Bert's Warehouse Theater
Eastern Market
2738 Russell St., Detroit

GET TICKETS ONLINE

Or at these fine local establishments

Noir Leather

124 W. 4th St. at Center St., Royal Oak

248-541-3979

River’s Edge Gallery

3024 Biddle Ave, Downtown Wyandotte

734-246-9880

Gwen Joy's Solo Art Showing February 15th at Motor City Brewery in Detroit

2012-02-14T12:52:00.001-05:00

Gwen Joy's "The Red Hot Valentine Lane" Art Show
February 15th at Motor City Brewery in Detroit

Wednesday, February 15, 2012
7:00pm until 12:00am

http://www.motorcitybeer.com/

"This is a solo art show with valentine, driving, and other fun themed paintings, my necklaces and my one of a kind toys.

It will be a fun and snazzy night night.

Come on and check it out!" - GJ

NEXT WEEK: Brewing Chemistry - Traffic Jam Detroit - Tues 2/21

2012-02-14T12:47:00.000-05:00

An informal monthly lecture series

to be held the 3rd Tuesday of every month

at Traffic Jam & Snug in Detroit

An evening of libations, edible delights and science inquiry

February's Topic:

The Role of Chemistry in the Development of

Regional Styles of Beer and Ale

Presented by:

Mark Allen Thomson, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Chemistry,

Department of Physical Sciences, Ferris State University

Have you ever wondered about how beer is made and the role that chemistry or microbiology plays in the process? Dr. Mark Thomson, a.k.a. “the Professor of Brewology” will briefly discuss the basic process of beer fermentation from a small-scale perspective. From malting the barley and mashing the malt, through fermentation and conditioning, to packaging the finished product, particular attention will be paid to the role of chemistry in the development of regional beer styles and traditions. Connections will be made between steps in the process and results in the final product including color, bitterness, aroma, body, and taste. Many of these connections will illustrate the subtle, but important role that small chemical details can play.

Learn the science behind making beer and the art of distinguishing different beer styles.

Tuesday, February 21st, 2012 at 7 PM

There is no admission charge, and free parking is available.

Feel free to join us before the talk at 6:00 PM for a dutch-treat dinner.

Traffic Jam & Snug

511 West Canfield Street, Detroit, MI 48201

The Traffic Jam and Snug, established 1965, is known for their in-house bakery, microbrewery, dairy, and made-from-scratch dishes.

http://www.trafficjamdetroit.com/

FREE VINYL & SHOW: Boom Chick - Vernors Room Crofoot Pontiac - 2/29

2012-02-14T12:39:00.000-05:00

MCB has a fresh off the press 7" vinyl from Book Chick ready to roll to the 5th emailer who includes full name and mailing address - email motorcityblog@earthlink.net for your shot to win

Boom Chick - Shake Can Well from Boom Chick on Vimeo.

Brooklyn Rock&Roll/Surf/Blues duo BOOM CHICK begins their 4th major US tour, playing a free show at The Crofoot Feb. 29th.

They tour behind the release of their new single Shake Can Well, available as download and 7" vinyl record.

Show Date: 2-29-12

Who: Boom Chick

Time: 10pm

Venue: The Crofoot, Vernors Room

1 South Saginaw, Pontiac, MI 48342

Door $: FREE

http://www.thecrofoot.com/

MOTORHEAD

2012-02-14T01:20:00.004-05:00

After 35 years of rocking out hard, Motorhead is still by far one of the loudest rock bands out there to date. Luckily for their fans, even at the ripe age of 66 Lemmy Kilmister shows no signs of slowing down anytime soon. The band released their 20th album titled “The World is yours” in December 2010.
January 2012 saw the release of a live DVD; The Wörld Is Ours - Vol 1 - Everywhere Further Than Everyplace Else. The live DVD includes performances from shows in New York to Manchester.
Motorhead is currently on tour with Gigantour, opening up the stage for Megadeth, which will run until February 28, 2012. It has also been confirmed that Motörhead will take part on 23 June 2012 in the Rock-A-Field Luxembourg Open Air Festival in Roeser, Luxembourg.
Motorhead is one of the founders of heavy rock music and they have truly influenced the heavy music scene today. They stayed true to themselves and still do what they enjoy and they do it well. No gimmicks, no fancy videos playing in the background, just a straight up (LOUD) rock show. Motorhead should be on everyone’s must see list, and unless you want your ears to bleed... I highly recommend bringing ear plugs!!

Wild At Heart

2012-02-13T23:00:00.001-05:00

Wild Bill Ketelhut provides the "blog" to this anti-blog

Wild At Heart

Here in Rochester we ended up getting about 16 inches of snow which accounted for 67% of all the snow we have gotten this winter. Despite that, I was able to keep myself busy traveling around. My alma mater was in town this weekend taking on both Nazareth and St John Fisher in men's and women's division III college basketball. I graduated from Hartwick College in 1991 and haven't been to a game in over a decade so it was nice catching up. They had a good following here having just as many fans as both home teams despite being over 4 hours away. Both teams won their games (3 came down to the closing minute with 1 going to OT) but there was 1 odd thing for me. It seems my team had changed there name. They used to be the Warriors (with a Native American motif) and they are now the Hawks. Not sure when it happened but I guess I'll have to get used to it.

I also was able to support a fundraiser for one of the local libraries. They had a big party/auction to raise money for their expansion and invited a couple of local music legends. First up was blues man Steve Grills and the Roadmasters. After years of playing in the area, he found some success with his album "After Hours" which ended on the Roots Music Reports top 100 Blues Albums at #39. HThe album covers some rare blues covers by artists like Albert Collins ("Frosty") and Jimmy Rogers ("You're Sweet").

The headliner recently moved to Mendon, NY area via marriage and is known for hits like "This Diamond Ring" and "Count Me In". He is also the firstborn son of comedian Jerry Lewis. It is 60's great Gary Lewis and the Playboys who put on a fun show playing their hits as well as covers by artists like the Monkees and Van Morrison. The voice may be a little off but he still has the energy to pull off a fun show. They also got a new hit single "You Can't Go Back" which you can find online (http://www.garylewisandtheplayboys.com/). Check out the cool decal on the guitar.

Before writing this, I got to see a preview of the new Clinton Documentary. I went to a screening of part 2 (they were supposed to bring part 1 but brought this instead). It is airing on PBS next week and must say the part I saw was pretty decent. It focused on the first term of his presidency looking at how he dealt with Newt and the Republicans attempt to wrest control from Clinton with the Government strike, the Whitewater scandal, the failure of Somalia and the triumph of Serbia among other things. The general themes was that for everything he did that propped him up, he eventually did something that tore him down. Historians are really starting to put his presidency in terms of history which seems complicated by the fact that while he was a popular president, he also had a 60% rating stating that people thought he was dishonest. There are still of lot of things set in motion during his presidency that will still take years to work out the good and the bad, but this documentary seems to offer a good and balanced look at a president who balanced our budgets and did a good job doing what he believed was right for the American public despite some flaws in his personality. This might be must-watch TV for fans of politics. If the other 3 parts are as good, this could become a classic.

In the meantime, here are some upcoming concerts to check out, esp Jill Sobule who puts on a fun show.

Thursday (2/16) - Jill Sobule @ the Ark

Friday (2/17) - Flogging Molly @ Fillmore Theatre, Kansas @ Andiamo Celebrity Showroom (Warren)

Saturday (2/18) - Umphrey's McGee @ Fillmore Theatre, 60 Second Crush @ Perfect Pitcher Sports Club (Taylor), Larry Lee & the Back In The Day Band (Chromatics Lounge at Motorcity Casino)

Monday (2/20) - Gaelic Storm @ the Ark

Have a good day.

The Bodies Obtained "Who Knows Who's Right"

2012-02-12T21:30:00.000-05:00

Here's a new local release that has all the classic electronic references I love, like Fad Gadget, Gary Numan, Neu!, all rolled up into a modern and bizarre album. Their press release puts it down like this:

The Bodies Obtained return with their fourth album, Who Knows Who’s Right, out now on NY independent label Finding You Attractive. Listen and download the new single “Life After Life”, a track that destroys what you thought was possible in the realm of experimental electronica. Like what you hear? Please download the free album by visiting The Bodies Obtained on SoundCloud or Bandcamp.

The elements of the first three long-players are all there: More songs constructed around plaintive tones, more not exactly “pop”, more head-scratching while shuffling your feet, more inner turmoil, more darkwave-tinted shadows and bizarre obscure places to run from, and more music for broken robots and love songs for masochists.

Who Knows Who’s Right is timeless yet contemporary, melding the best parts of experimental rock, electronica, prog and Krautrock.

PHOTOS & REVIEW: DARK STAR ORCHESTRA - 2/9/2012

2012-02-10T14:32:00.003-05:00

Deadheads in southeast Michigan had cause for celebration last night as Dark Star Orchestra returned to the Motor City. Known for replicating Grateful Dead shows, the premier tribute band has played over 2,000 shows – nearing that of the Dead themselves – in their tenure of nearly fifteen years. Before the band took the stage promptly at nine o’clock, the audience could already guess at the Grateful Dead set list that would be played. With only a single drum kit on stage, diehard fans knew that it could only be from the era in which the band played sans Mickey Hart. Opening up with Promised Land, it seemed that neither the band nor the audience was really ready for the show to begin as energy seemed in short supply from both sides of the proscenium. A sweet Sugaree followed bringing with her grins from fans and the start of the party. And from then it was just one fan favorite after another, save perhaps for the Donna Jean song You Ain’t Woman Enough, which was sung more than capably by the ever-vibrant Lisa Mackey.

As the lead flowed Jeff Mattson’s Fender, and Rob Eaton sang Looks Like Rain numerous (obviously first time DSO) audience members could be heard exclaiming how incredibly faithful every detail was to the original. And what made it all the more authentic was the diversity in ages and backgrounds of the crowd – from the teen aged dreadies to the 60-plus bikers, to the middle aged wasted guy with his tie-dyed t-shirt tucked in to his belted jeans – this was a crowd that loved the music of the Dead and the Promised Land had found them. And to cap it off, it was clear that this was truly a family affair as parents and kids danced, old friends hugged and laughed, and everyone let their bodies move with the music. That characterizes the whole show – it’s difficult to pick out any single song or solo, from Mattson’s intricate fills in El Paso or bassist Kevin Rosen’s intense heavy lines on The Other One, or keyboard player Rob Barraco’s sweet playing in Eyes Of The World, it was the next best thing to a time machine.

Click here to check out the original show on the Internet Live Music Archive: http://www.archive.org/details/gd73-03-22.sbd.sacks.1822.sbeok.shnf

UPCOMING: K-Holes return with Dismania play Lager House Detroit on March 30th 2012

2012-02-10T12:12:00.001-05:00

We are working on getting some freebies for this show - stay tuned...

K-HOLES SHARE "RATS," YOUR FIRST TASTE OF SINFUL NEW LP DISMANIA

Just as the promise of Spring begins to cast everything in a soft-focus haze, something sinister struts in to keep things dark and depraved. K-Holes have returned with Dismania, their second full-length record and first for Hardly Art. Dismania comes packed with the same kind of menacing, feverish skronk the New York quintet (which features former members of Golden Triangle and the Black Lips) patented on their 2011 self-titled debut. The first hit is always free: "Rats"--a track that capably evokes the filth and fearsomeness of big-city living--can be downloaded at the link above. Dismania is due out May 1st on CD, vinyl LP, and digital formats, and the band has a grip of upcoming East Coast/Midwest tour dates (including a handful of as-yet-to-be announced SXSW performances), details for which can be found below.

About the record:

The K-Holes speak at once of the mystic and the cosmopolitan, the primal and the urbane, the earthen elements and their synthesized cousins. But unlike their contemporaries, the K-Holes' sound is not of the grinning, gregarious panderer. Nor is it of the bored or at-ease. Rather, it's the sound of escape.

Escape from the concrete scrabble of New York, that moneyed parking lot for the cynical and privileged; escape from the vulgar materialism sung from the metropolitan mouth; escape from the vacuous r'n'r pantomime that smells of mere vaudevillian entertainment in any number of the city's myriad dives. The K-Holes set these things afire, and in their stead, they proffer a wet hand, leading you, the listener, to another flame, a funereal white-hot pyre--one that promises more than sheer nihilism. One that promises freedom amongst cages of different shapes, sizes and colors. A way out.

Their abdication follows a natural extension of the atrophied rock/roll ligament--unfurling from H. Williams to G. Vincent to Larry & the Blue Notes to the Pagans, Birthday Party, Flesh Eaters, Scientists, beyond--colored, at times, with smudges of primitive ceremony. As we follow their trajectory, running from the towering urban oppression, we catch whiffs of guttural noir in the honk of the sax, we hear the jagged swaths of guitar, we sense the bite and lust in their gang vocal. It's fueled, all the while, by a low, thundering beat of tribal divination. Their burghal séance urges us onward, upward, and we sense the fire nearing. But the heat emanates not from the flame to which we run. It flowers from the cleansing pyre that has devoured us from the inside all along: the one that burns us up and tells us to move, in any direction at all, in any way we see fit, consequences be damned.

Tour dates:

02.24.12 - Brooklyn, NY - Wild Kingdom
03.02.11 - New York, NY - Highline Ballroom ^
03.08. 12 - Atlanta, GA - E.A.R.L. *
03.09.12 – Memphis, TN - In & Out Festival
03.10.12 - New Orleans, LA - Siberia *
03.11.12 – Beaumont, TX - Beau Jam 12
03.12.12 - 03.16.12 - SXSW
03.17.12 – Denton, TX - Rubber Gloves
03.18.12 – Lawrence, KS - Replay Lounge *
03.19.12 – Chicago, IL - Empty Bottle *
03.20.12 – Detroit, MI – Lager House *

^ - w/ Ssion
* - w/ Bezoar

PHOTO BY MARTI WILKERSON

[ S E X U A L ¦ T E N S I O N ] I I I - L O V E S H A C K - D E T R O I T

2012-02-10T11:53:00.000-05:00

[ S E X U A L ¦ T E N S I O N ] I I I

L O V E S H A C K - D E T R O I T

February 11-14, 2012

*VALENTINES DAY IS CANCELLED*

S E X U A L T E N S I O N, Detroit's hottest disco au courant,

is back after January's absense for it's third installment.

All Disco.

All night.

___________________________________________________________________

To the selections of

Resident

M u s t a c h e J e r r y

(Sexual Tension, Bathroom Culture)

+ Special Guests...

R E L A X... [read more]

*VALENTINES DAY IS CANCELLED*

S E X U A L T E N S I O N, Detroit's hottest disco au courant,

is back after January's absense for it's third installment.

All Disco.

All night.

___________________________________________________________________

Strictly adults (w. proper ID)

RSVP only.

Guests confirm attendance.

Ladies free before 12.

www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=267207500006681

FREE VINYL: The Pharmacy - Trumbullplex Theatre Detroit - Tuesday 2/21

2012-02-10T11:26:00.000-05:00

Win the latest vinyl release "Dig Your Grave" from The Pharmacy who return to Dietroit Tuesday February 21st 2012 for a show at The Trumbullplex Theatre located at 4210 Trumbull
email motorcityblog@earthlink.net for your shot to win
http://trumbullplex.org/

It's been almost a decade since a young Scottie Yoder received a 4-track for his birthday and began turning out poppy, energetic garage numbers with friend Brendhan Bowers in a shed on Vashon Island up in Washington state. After classically-trained pianist Stefan Rubicz joined the pair in early 2007, they've been on a constant schedule. The past few years, the band's been alternating between the recording of 3 albums, a handful of 7"s and touring all over North America and Europe with acts varying from Japanther and Vivian Girls to Kimya Dawson and Matt+Kim.

They spent 2009 living in New Orleans where they recorded the LP Weekend for Park The Van Records. Seattle's The Stranger called it "the strongest, most consistent record the band has ever made" that "continues to move even further away from their basement-punk beginnings, experimenting with a more mellow, sometimes psychedelic sound laced with sweet harmonies." The New Orleans Gambit stated that "the LP plays out like a lost artifact from 1965 London" and that "The band's formerly kaleidoscopic psych/pop suddenly finds laser-guided precision, both musically and lyrically."

After supporting the LP with 3 US and 2 European tours including a special SXSW session with Daytrotter, they returned to Seattle with a wealth of new material. The A side of the new Dig Your Grave EP contains two songs recorded in Seattle at Jack Endino's Soundhouse Studio. It was produced by Brandon Eggleston who is known for his work with Modest Mouse, Swans Les Savy Fav. Yoder was even able to use the same guitar amp from Nirvana's Bleach LP for the solo in "Pines." The B side contains a demo recorded in the barracks on Governor's Island and an acoustic track from their time in New Orleans. Its a diverse and varied document offering a glimpse into their anticipated next LP, Stoned & Alone, due out later this year on Park The Van Records.

THE PHARMACY - DIG YOUR GRAVE (MUSIC VIDEO) from brendhan bowers on Vimeo.

Show Preview: Big Gigantic at Royal Oak Music Theatre Friday, Feb 24

2012-02-09T21:59:00.001-05:00

If you haven't taken a close look at the calendar there at are lot of electronic music acts playing the area over the next couple of months. Steve Aoki, Skream & Benga, Rusko, just to name a few. One electronic act playing this month that is a little under the radar screen is Big Gigantic, a duo that incorporates saxophone into their highly elevated and evolved electronic music. If you haven't heard of them yet you can download their music from their website for free. To compliment their immense sound they have a helluva stage show. Bring your shades because it's very bright. Warming up the show will be Paper Diamond who put on a marvelous show here just a few weeks ago. I interviewed him on my podcast and he's worth seeing twice. So if you're prioritizing electronic shows to attend I'd move Big Gigantic to the top of the list.

8000 posts on MCB - FREE Tickets and CDs - KATIE GRACE - Pjs Lager House Detroit - Sat 2/18

2012-02-09T13:34:00.000-05:00

At 8000 posts on MCB we wanted to giveaway something cool and we have a handful of tickets and free CDs from a Dietroit original - Katie Grace

email motorcityblog@earthlink.net for your shot at the freebies!!

KATIE GRACE announces her debut album “Best Bad Girl”

and release show!

Singer-songwriter Katie Grace releases her debut album "Best Bad Girl" with a show on

Saturday, February 18 at 9pm at PJ's Lagerhouse.

Joining her for the show are the bands Bixy Lutz and John Holk & The Kinfolk opening the night. To kick off the album's release, Katie will be a guest and perform songs live on Ann Delisi's Essential Music show on WDET Detroit radio, 101.9FM that morning at 11:00am-2pm. http://www.wdetfm.org/

Katie Grace honed her skill as the bassist for some of Detroit's finest alt-country bands; Doop and the Inside Outlaws and Shotgun Wedding, and wielded a stand-up bass in the bluegrass bands The Salt Miners and the all-female ensemble, Syreens. As an integral part of these bands she traveled to Austin, Texas for a showcase at SXSW Music Festival and a string of shows in New York City and the Eastcoast.

After a successful run as a sidewoman and a duet partner, she decided to branch out on her own. She began writing songs that she says, “tell honest stories and say what everyone is thinking but no one has the guts to say out loud.” This genuine songwriting started getting the attention of other musicians. She was invited to join Detroit’s Inside Outlaw Songwriting Collective, a group of like-minded composers who’s experience and influence have led her to her goals of “giving my audience something they can relate to” and, ultimately, “letting the songs speak for themselves.”

PJ's Lagerhouse is located at 1254 Michigan Avenue. in Detroit. (313) 961-4668.

18 & over are welcome and cover for this show is $7.

The new CD will be available for purchase for $10.

The first 30 people through the door will receive a free copy!

The album and a live performance will be featured again at Ann Delisi's Essential Music Listening Party on Tuesday, Feb. 21 from 7-9pm at The Majestic Café located at 4120 Woodward Ave. in Detroit. (313)833-9700. The party is free to attend.

Another upcoming show is with The Inside Outlaw Collective for the Metro Times 15th Blowout Music Festival on Friday, March 2, 9pm at Kelly's Bar 2403 Holbrook St. in Hamtramck. (313-873-9428)

For information on Katie Grace,

check out the website: www.reverbnation.com/katiegrace

Photo of Katie Grace taken by Doug Coombe

OPENING: Clean as a Whistle: Detroit's Finest Tattoos Artists @ 323East

2012-02-09T13:29:00.000-05:00

Clean As A Whistle

Presented by Big Top Tattoo & Signature Tattoo

A Collection of New Works From Seven of Detroit's Finest Tattoo Artists

323East Gallery

323 E. 4th Street, Royal Oak, Mi 48067

It is our distinct pleasure to invite you to join us at the 323East Gallery for a meet and greet with the artists Saturday Feb. 18th from 6-11pm as they usher in their latest works!

Opening Reception - Feb. 18th 6-11pm

Showing From Feb. 18th - Mar. 18th

We cordially invite you to join 323East in a celebration of the artwork of Detroit’s finest underground tattoo artists as the wholly handsome and tumultuously talented men of Big Top and Signature Tattoo present an alternative to your clean cut, run of the mill...hygienic annual art show with Clean As A Whistle. Featuring new works from Big Top and Signature Tattoo Artists, Clean As A Whistle is to grime what a hot slot machine is to a tarnished dime. Curated by Mark Heggie the show will feature new works from 7 of Detroit’s finest accross various mediums.

“This is our answer to the community to create a top notch exhibition that will be accessible to everybody. We’re catering to art collectors, we’re catering to our groupie fans and we’re catering to people who just want a pretty painting to put on the wall for $50. We’re not trying to exclude anybody,” Mark Heggie said. “We know that you’re not just buying a product, you’re not just buying a service, you know what I mean? You’re buying into an experience, and it’s a lifestyle, sometimes it takes over and you start eating and breathing and sleeping it, but sometimes it’s just a cool momento of the times. But hey, it’s going to last longer than any car you’re ever going to buy, any house, any investment.”

Clean As A Whistle will open Saturday, February 18th with an artist reception from 6-11pm at 323East Gallery in Royal Oak. The group exhibition will feature new works by Mark Heggie, Tyler Hemmingsen, Garth Hixon, Davey James, Nick Kelly, Dan Rick and Sam Wolfe. All seven artists will be on hand for a chance to get up-close and personal chance in meet and greet to talk about their artwork. Clean As A Whistle will show from February 18th - March 18th.

DO NOT MISS: “Beyond the Machine” - Start Gallery Detroit - 2/24 - 3/3 2012

2012-02-09T13:09:00.001-05:00

Start Gallery Hosts “Beyond the Machine” February 24 – March 3

Exhibit Showcases Tattoo Artists’ Skills Outside of the Human Canvas

Detroit’s Start Gallery hosts “Beyond the Machine” – a fine art exhibition from some of the nation’s most revered tattoo artists. The show opens on Friday, February 24 and runs through Saturday, March 3.

“Beyond the Machine “ will showcase tattooists’ work outside the human canvas. Picking up paintbrushes and other artistic mediums instead of their tattoo machines, the show features creations by top tattoo artists not limited by the constraints of flesh.

“The goal of the exhibit is to expose the fine artwork by tattoo artists in a gallery setting to a new crowd, while also appealing to tattoo enthusiasts who seek to further explore the depths of tattoo culture,” explains Start Gallery owner and director Jason Reed.

“Beyond the Machine” will include work by a myriad of tattooists, from nationally recognized names like Detroit’s Bob Tyrell and Mark Heggie, to just under the radar artists David Hale (Athens, Georgia) Zach Hewitt (Farmington Hills, MI) and David Poole (Ft. Lauderdale, FL). Excitement abounds with artwork flying in from all corners of the country. “This will be a very rare chance to see fine art by legendary artists and newcomers alike,” adds Reed.

Exhibit highlights include an opening night meet and greet with many of the tattoo artists on Friday, February 24 from 6 pm – 11 pm with Ghettoblaster Beer on tap and other refreshments. Ages 18 and over are welcome and admission is free.

On Saturday, February 25, “Beyond the Machine” is the setting for a full-throttle Autorama Afterparty with live music by honky tonk rockers The Orbitsuns plus rockabilly trio the Hifi Hellfires! Motorbilly Radio’s DJ Del Villareal will also be spinning. Doors are at 8 pm and admission is $8. Ages 21 and over are welcome to attend.

Secure parking is available at the Opera House parking garage directly across from the gallery.

Following the opening weekend - Ages 18 and over are invited to the Start Gallery for additional “Beyond the Machine” dates including:

Monday Feb 27 - March 2: Daytime hours 2pm-6pm

Friday March 2: 8pm-Midnight

Saturday March 3: Special Closing Event 8pm-1am

If you can’t make it down to the show in person the artwork will be available for the world to seeing during the online opening, which can be found at startgallery.net/gallerylive

For more information about “Beyond the Machine” including an updated participating artist list please visitstartgallery.net or call 313-909-2845. Call for art ends February 13.

Start Gallery is located in Detroit’s Harmonie Park at 206 E. Grand River (at Broadway).

GriT Vol.2 February 10-11 - Opening Reception Friday Night, 7pm-12am

2012-02-09T12:51:00.006-05:00

This is an Age of Man and Machine.

A Time when the Spirited Natural World connects with the Technological World of Computers. An Old Song of Shared Ideas and Uniting Cultures.

GriT is a Modest Free Outlet of Creative Energy and Constructive Encouragement towards The Hard...working Spirit, The Strong Mind, and The Honest Heart.

Come down to Detroit again for UndGrd's Second Edition of GriT,

An Art Gallery featuring local Artists!

Art
Music

Spirits

Ideas and

Snacks

We Welcome Everyone to a Two-day event Celebrating The Creative Spirit, and The Explosive Phenomenon of Connection.

Opening reception on Friday night 7pm-12am featuring music by The Science Fair.

No cover. All Ages.

UndGrd * 2984 Woodward ave Detroit,Mi

IDEAL VALENTINE EVENT: Detroit Camper & RV Show

2012-02-09T11:50:00.000-05:00

If you ask me what I really want to do for Valentine's Day weekend, I'd say shop for RVs. I'm not even kidding. It happens every year this same weekend. Go, it'll change your life.

MARVAC Detroit Camper & RV Show

February 8-12, 2012

Suburban Collection Showplace (formerly the Rock Financial Showplace)

46100 Grand River Avenue, Novi, MI 48374

On Grand River, south of I-96 between Novi Road and Beck Road.

2-9 p.m. Thursday-Friday

11 a.m.-9 p.m. Saturday

11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday

$9, $8 seniors, free to children 12 and younger.

More than 250 new recreation vehicles -- including folding campers, motor homes, travel trailers, truck campers and fifth-wheel travel trailers -- will be on display for the Michigan Association of Recreation Vehicles and Campgrounds Camper and RV Show at Suburban Collection Showplace.

"We offer this show in February and in October, and we anticipate having about 20,000 people," says Bill Sheffer, director of MARVAC. "We'll offer everything for the camping lifestyle, and we will have representatives from campgrounds and financial institutions for on-site RV financing."

THIS SAT: Showtime Clothing Hearts Detroit FREE SHOW

2012-02-09T11:28:00.001-05:00

Showtime Clothing Loves Detroit

8 p.m. Saturday February 11

Hastings Street Ballroom

6369 Oakland, Detroit, MI

Free tickets are available at Showtime Clothing while supplies last. Admission is $10 at the door.

Detroit's hippest rock and roll store, Showtime Clothing, hosts "Showtime Clothing Hearts Detroit" - a concert promoting the talents of local and national rock acts - on Saturday February 11 inside the Hastings Street Ballroom (715 E. Milwaukee, Detroit.) Showcasing rock music on two stages, the concert will include 10 bands including Detroit acts Bixy Lutz, Bloodline Riot, Citizen Zero, Curbstone Beauty, Glitter Trash Punks, Haflife and Saturnine Hello, plus national acts Barb Wire Dolls (Los Angeles), The Ruby Spirit (Toronto) and San Francisco's Ultraviolet Radio, comprised of former members of Detroit stalwarts The Go. DJ Pleasure Kitten and MC Darks Choir will keep the dance floor hopping between sets.

The party runs from 8 p.m.-2:30 a.m. and ages 21 and over are welcome to attend.

Free tickets are available only at Showtime Clothing while supplies last (no purchase necessary.) Admission to the party for those without tickets is $10 at the door.

In addition to the hot live performances, there will be a cash bar and vending by Mario's Detroit, who will be on hand dishing out fantastic food. Attendees can also enter a raffle for the chance to win a Schott Leather jacket (valued at $600). Partial proceeds from the raffle will benefit the Detroit Music Awards Foundation. Raffle tickets are also available at Showtime Clothing, and the winner will be announced at the concert.

"Showtime Clothing Loves Detroit Music" is a labor of love for owner Dan Tatarian, who has been in his popular downtown Detroit location for over 23 years. Showtime specializes in rock star apparel for men and women. Uniquely focusing on rocker attire since 1989, shoppers can browse racks of distinctive, quality clothing items not found anywhere else.

"I wanted to help local bands get in front of larger crowds and add some excitement and fun to the scene," explains Tatarian. Showtime Clothing is a staunch supporter of local music and is the "go to" store for the coolest threads for performers and their fans, setting the trends for fashion both on stage and off.

"Showtime Clothing Loves Detroit Music" will be the first of a series of exciting music events hosted by the store, with others slated for this summer.

Showtime Clothing is located at 5708 Woodward Ave in Detroit. For more information about the concert please call 313-875-9280.

THIS SAT: Detroit Party Marching Band Mardi Gras @ Lager House

2012-02-09T11:15:00.000-05:00

Detroit Party Marching Band

Mardi Gras Masquerade Ball

w/Passalacqua, Charlie Slick, Patrick Elkins’ Puppet Show, Run Jit

PJ's Lager House
1254 Michigan Ave., Detroit

Saturday, February 11, 2012 at 8pm

$7 with mask, $10 without

This event is a fundraiser for the Detroit Party and Marching Band to help them defray the cost of their upcoming trip to New Orleans for Mardi Gras. Performers include The Detroit Party and Marching Band, Charlie Slick, Passalacqua, The Patrick Elkins puppet show.

Detroit local hip hop duo Passalacqua is a relatively new project made up of Mister and Blaksmith from Cold Men Young. Their songs feature heavy samples and are produced by Dr. B, with DJ Primeminister the ‘Scratchtracknologist’ on the cuts.
https://www.facebook.com/#!/tomandbootsy

Charlie Slick is a musician and inventor who resides in Ann Arbor, MI. He is often found with glitter smeared all over his body, as cute girls dance riotously to his thumping techno/pop beats.
http://www.charlieslick.com

A few things we know about Patrick Elkins and his puppets...
Elkins' first novel, Ink on Dreams Of Transient Architecture, was published by Francis of Prussia in March 2007. Later that year he traveled to Indonesia, where he created a form of shadow puppetry known as "Wayang Kucing" (trans: shadow puppet theater for/about cats). He is one of the founders of "Totally Awesome Fest", and he has a puppet performance entitled, "The Very Wishy-Washy Caterpillar Meets the Most Irresponsible Piece of Cake in the World".
We cannot imagine a better way to spend an evening.

2012 Academy Award Nominated Short Films @ DFT

2012-02-09T11:04:00.000-05:00

2012 Academy Award Nominated Short Films
Friday, February 10, 2012 – Saturday, February 19, 2012
Detroit Film Theater
at the DIA
5200 Woodward Avenue, Detroit, Michigan 48202

Friday and Saturday, February 10 and 11 at 7:00 PM
Sunday, February 12 at 2:00 and 7:00 PM
Friday and Saturday, 17 and 18 at 7:00 PM
Sunday, February 19 at 2:00 and 7:00 PM

TIX HERE

Here’s your ticket to a satisfying banquet of this year’s Oscar® nominated shorts – in both the animated and live-action categories – as well as your opportunity to predict the winners before the Oscars are handed out on February 26th! The short-film nominees are traditionally among the year’s most creative and surprising films of any kind, yet they’re also the most difficult to find. We’ll present them in one eye-popping program, with a brief intermission between the animated and live-action categories.

And, the nominees are:

Best Animated Short Film

  Dimanche/Sunday  directed by Patrick Doyon
The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore  directed by William Joyce and Brandon Oldenburg

  La Luna directed by Enrico Casarosa  

A Morning Stroll  directed by Grant Orchard and Sue Goffe  

Wild Life  directed by Amanda Forbis and Wendy Tilby

Best Live Action Short Film  

Pentecost  directed by Peter McDonald and Eimear O’Kane  

Raju  directed by Max Zähle and Stefan Gieren

  The Shore  directed by Terry George and Oorlagh George  

Time Freak  directed by Andrew Bowler and Gigi Causey  

Tuba Atlantic  directed by Hallvar Witzø

Since this is traditionally the DFT’s most popular annual program, advance tickets are highly recommended!

Vanhalentines Day - Saturday at Corktown Tavern

2012-02-08T16:28:00.002-05:00

This Saturday is Vanhalentines Day! With performances by The Beggars & Panama! Plus with each paid entry you have the chance to win 4 Classic Van Halen Albums (VH 1, VH II, Women and Children, 1984) remastered and pressed on 180gm Vinyl!!

http://www.corktowntavern.com
1716 Michigan Ave., Detroit, MI

MCB ROAD TRIP: The Balconies - Hamilton ONTARIO - Tues Feb 21st

2012-02-08T13:33:00.000-05:00

Looking for a fun filled night next Tuesday?? Hit the Windsor Tunnel and head on over to Hamilton Ontario to catch a killer show from The Balconies

Continuing their blistering entry into 2012, The Balconies are gearing up for a tour of Ontario and the East Coast in preparation for the February 28th release of their highly anticipated EP Kill Count. The Toronto-by-way-of-Ottawa trio have already hit listeners with the title track and its dynamic music video, and they're ready to take Kill Count east on a short tour before travelling to the South by Southwest Festival in Austin, Texas and returning home in time for Canadian Music Week in March.

The band will spend 11 days on the road, beginning with a show at Peterborough's Historic Red Dog before playing The Blind Duck in Mississauga as part of the "Rock for a Breast" fundraiser in support of funding breast cancer research. Subsequent dates will see them in Hamilton, Halifax and Moncton. Charlottetown and Sydney, NS will be the last East Coast stops of the tour before The Balconies return to Ontario for a show at Kingston's The Mansion.

The Kill Count EP will drop on February 28th. Offering 5 tracks of The Balconies' special brand of high-energy rock and roll, Kill Count promises to be a crowd-pleaser for the band's veteran fans, as well as creating a veritable army of newcomers.

The year may have just begun, but The Balconies are making the most of the time. They've earned rave reviews for their live shows, including appearances at Pop Montreal, NXNE and more. They've opened for the likes of Juliette Lewis, Land of Talk and Sloan, and Kill Count's title track has been voted one of Sirius XM's "Best Songs of 2011". Add what will no doubt be fantastic appearances at both SXSW and CMW into the mix, and it's clear that The Balconies are going to be a musical force to contend with in the coming months.

http://www.audiobloodmedia.com/pr/the-balconies/

TOUR DATES

Feb. 9 @ Historic Red Dog, PETERBOROUGH (w/ USS)

Feb. 10 @ The Blind Duck Pub, MISSISSAUGA (Rock for a Breast Fundraiser)

Feb. 11 @ Casbah, COLLINGWOOD

Feb. 16 @ Jimmy Jazz, GUELPH

Feb. 18 @ The Sanctuary, RIDGEWAY, ON

Feb. 21 @ The Casbah, HAMILTON

Feb. 29 @ Seahorse Tavern, HALIFAX (w/ The Town Heroes)

Mar. 1 @ Plan B, MONCTON (w/ The Town Heroes and Ben Caplan)

Mar. 2 @ Hunter's Ale House, CHARLOTTETOWN (w/ The Town Heroes)

Mar. 3 @ Governor's Pub, SYDNEY, NS (w/ The Town Heroes)

Mar. 9 @ The Mansion, KINGSTON

Mar. 15 @ The 512, AUSTIN (**Let's Get Messy Day Party)

Mar. 16 @ Trinity Hall, AUSTIN (**SXSW Showcase)

Mar. 21 - 25 @ Canadian Music Week, Details TBA

Jul. 14 @ Downsview Park, TORONTO (**Edgefest)

LINKS

http://thebalconies.ca/

http://facebook.com/thebalconies

http://twitter.com/thebalconies

FREE TICKETS: Declaration of War - Main Art Royal Oak - Fri 2/17

2012-02-08T13:22:00.000-05:00

MCB has a handful of free passes to check out Declaration of War at the Main Art Royal Oak next Thursday February 17th - email us at motorcityblog@earthlink.net for your chance to win

DECLARATION OF WAR: (Exclusively at the Main Art Theatre)
The opening night film at this year's Critics Week at the Cannes Film Festival, this exuberant and deeply moving film follows a new couple, Romeo (Jérémie Elkaïm) and Juliette (Valérie Donzelli), who must face the ultimate test when they discover their newborn child is very ill. Gathering their friends and family together, they confront the ordeal together as a form of warfare. Donzelli infuses the story with unexpected verve using a host of cinematic techniques, music and heartbreaking performances that results in a film about a contemporary couple who surprises even themselves with their ability to fight not only for the life of their child but for each other. The result is a film will bring tears to your eyes but will dazzle you with its contagious vitality for life. DECLARATION OF WAR draws on the real life experiences of Donzelli and co-star/co-writer Elkaïm and what they went through when their own son fell ill. (IFC FILMS) Not rated.

UPCOMING: MythBusters LIVE @ the Fox, 16 March

2012-02-08T10:20:00.000-05:00

UPDATE!

SECOND SHOW ADDED!

4:30 pm, Friday, March 16
Tickets For the 4:30 p.m. Show Go On Sale Friday, February 10 at 10 A.M.!

(Detroit – February 8, 2012) Due to overwhelming demand, the all-new, live show “MythBusters: Behind the Myths,” starring Jamie Hyneman and Adam Savage, co-hosts of the Emmy-nominated Discovery series "MythBusters,” has added an extra performance; now there are two shows at Detroit’s Fox Theatre on Friday, March 16 at 4:30 p.m. and 8 p.m.

One of my favorite shows of all time, MythBusters has done almost as much to promote critical thinking as they have to promote the love of blowing shit up. Not to be missed!

MythBusters

Behind The Myths 

The Fox Theatre

2211 Woodward, Detroit

Friday, March 16, 2012

CLICK FOR TIX

MythBusters Takes Detroit Behind The Myths!

Don't miss MythBusters Behind The Myths, coming to the historic Fox Theatre in Detroit, MI on March 16, 2012.

The all-new, live stage show “MythBusters Behind the Myths,” starring Jamie Hyneman and Adam Savage, co-hosts of the Emmy-nominated Discovery series MythBusters,” promises to be an unexpected evening of on-stage experiments, audience participation, rocking video and behind-the-scenes stories.

For the first time ever, fans will join Jamie and Adam on stage and assist in their mind-twisting and not always orthodox approach to science.

"MythBusters Behind the Myths" brings you face to face with the curious world of Jamie and Adam as the duo matches wits on stage with each other and members of the audience.

Enter to win Lover's Feast - No. VI Chophouse - Monday 2/13

2012-02-08T10:16:00.001-05:00

MCB's Moneypenny will be reviewing the Lover's Feast

and we encourage you to enter the contest listed below for your chance to win a reservation for two

Good Luck!

Lover's Feast at No.VI Chophouse

Where:

No.VI Chophouse

Crowne Plaza Hotel 

27000 Sheraton 

Novi, MI 48377 

(248) 305-5210

www.mattprenticerg.com

When:

Monday, February 13, 2012

6:45 p.m.

Romance your sweetheart with a delicious Lover's Feast at No.VI Chophouse. Executive Chef Jeremy Kalmus creates beautiful offerings certain to delight you and your significant other. A wine package to pair with each course is available for an additional cost. Reservations are required. Please call No.VI Chophouse at (248) 305-5210.

Share the story of how you and your special someone met for a chance to win a reservation for two to the Lover's Feast.

To enter and for additional contest details, visit http://www.mattprenticerg.com/lovers_feast_contest.html.

Cost:

$114 per couple, not including tax or gratuity

Lover's Feast Menu

First Course

Tuna Carpaccio 

Olive Tapenade, Mini Egg, Haricot Vert, Citrus, Potato Gaufrette 

L Mawby Brut "Blanc De Blanc"

Second Course

Butter Poached Lobster Claw

Red Curry, Crispy Rice, Smoke Corn

Crios Torrontes 2010

Third Course

Maple Leaf Farm Seared Duck Breast

Roasted Acorn Squash, House Made Sage and Apple Foie Gras Sausage, Morel Emulsion

 Ken Wright Pinot Noir 2009

Fourth Course

Sweet Potato Ravioli

 Braised Short Rib, Beurre Monte, Basil Oil, Herb Salad 

Sean Minor "Four Bears" 2008

Dessert

Chocolate Tasting 

Chocolate Churro, Oreo and Cocoa Soil, Salted Chocolate Mousse, House Made Cocoa

Segura Viudas Brut

UPCOMING: Jeffrey Foucault in Rare Full Band Concert at The Ark Ann Arobr- FEB. 23rd 2012

2012-02-08T10:01:00.001-05:00

JEFFREY FOUCAULT IN CONCERT WITH FULL BAND AT THE ARK- FEBRUARY 23
NEW CD HORSE LATITUDES SHOWCASES DEEPLY PENETRATING FUSION OF COUNTRY AND ROCK

SHOW INFORMATION:
Date: February 23, 2012

Venue: THE ARK
316 S. Main Street in Ann Arbor, MI

Phone: 734-761-1800

Show time: 8:00 PM

Ticket price: $15

http://theark.org/

The Horse Latitudes are the equatorial reaches where only ocean, sky, and desert obtain;

where legend says becalmed Spanish sailors put their horses overboard as the cisterns ran dry.
Places of element, and reckoning.

With Horse Latitudes, Jeffrey Foucault gives us ten new original songs that showcase an artist in the fullness of his powers, offering a compelling vision of modern American music. A cross-country collision of rock, country, and folk, Horse Latitudes alights with equal grace on full-band ragers and whispered solo pieces, delivering a methodically paced collection of songs that inhabit the borderlands of heartbreak and memory. Foucault's deep, enticing vocals are richly complemented by an intoxicating mix of acoustic and electric instrumentation: acoustic guitar, pedal steel, Hammond organ, piano, and accordion, electric bass, drums, cello.

Cinematic in scope and movement, Horse Latitudes begins the place of reckoning, confronting the end of nature and the end of youth in a series of vivid dreams, unfolding characters from younger life and lovers lost or forgotten against dark fragments of modern time. Lyrics from an early track ("Pretty Girl In A Small Town"): "Tea with honey tell me who, bent the branch inside of you? A dark and silent waiting in your eyes, promise me you'll never do it," reoccur in a later song, ("Goners Most") "Tea with honey tell me who, bent the branch inside of you? Dark eyed things you never told, you have to be that young to feel that old."

Recorded in just three days in Los Angeles, Horse Latitudes features Eric Heywood (Pretenders, Ray Lamontagne) on pedal steel, baritone and electric guitars; Billy Conway (Morphine, Cold Satellite) on drums; Jennifer Condos (Ray Lamontagne, Sam Phillips) on electric bass, and Van Dyke Parks (Lowell George, Brian Wilson, Ry Cooder) on keys and accordion, with backing vocals and cello from Kris Delmhorst; an all-star ensemble that seamlessly merges the ferocity of rock and the honesty of country with the plaintive wonder in Foucault's weathered voice.

In a decade on the road, Jeffrey Foucault - a Wisconsin native now living in western Massachusetts - has produced a string of critically acclaimed albums and garnered accolades across the United States and overseas for his tersely elegant brand of songwriting.

http://www.jeffreyfoucault.com
http://www.facebook.com/jeffreyfoucault

"When songwriters are this good—that's rare—we tend to call them poets and old souls. Sure, but there's also a wild energy here. He can win you over with a grin, crack you open with his mind. Like all great writers, he gets inside and listens. You hear his appetite for people and places in the crackle of his songs." -Matt Dellinger/Horse Latitudes liner notes

YACHT with JOHNNY HEADBAND at The Pike Room

2012-02-08T06:59:00.000-05:00

Yacht, with Johnny Headband

February 20th, at the Pike Room

$10, doors at 8

YACHT is a Band, Belief System, and Business conducted by Jona Bechtolt and Claire L. Evans of Marfa, Texas and Portland, Oregon, USA. All people are welcome to become members of YACHT. Accordingly, YACHT is what YACHT is when YACHT is standing before you.

YACHT was born in 2002 in Portland, Oregon, as a solo cross-disciplinary experiment for Jona Bechtolt, using technology to extend physical bo2undaries of communication, performance, and music. In 2008, after a shared mystical experience in the Far West Texas desert, Bechtolt was joined in the YACHT endeavor by longtime collaborator Claire L. Evans. Spurred by this paranormal bond, this new incarnation of YACHT wrote and recorded “See Mystery Lights” in Marfa, Texas.

Currently, the Straight Gaze – Robert “Bobby Birdman” Kieswetter, Jeffrey “Jerusalem” Brodsky, and Katy Davidson of the Key Losers – round out the live presentation of YACHT. YACHT’s heart is in these live presentations: uncluttered, inspiring sessions of damaged dance moves and coded ritualism, backed by constantly changing elements—Power Point presentations, audience Q&A sessions, and shamanistic video environments.

YACHT has toured with LCD Soundsystem (R.I.P.), the Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Architecture in Helsinki, and Vampire Weekend; YACHT is multidisciplinary enough to have been paired with the Chemical Brothers, the Breeders, and Phoenix; YACHT has played on boats, in caves, in bathrooms, in art galleries and museums, in rural China, and at the Hollywood Bowl.

Bechtolt has been a promiscuous genre-smasher since his adolescence, when he decided that playing drums in the touring punk band he formed with his older brother was more worthwhile than attending a single day of high school. He’s plied his unique breed of beat-heavy laptop wizardry and grunge ethos to endless collaborations, both as producer and drummer, with west coast mainstays like Devendra Banhart, The Blow, Little Wings, and Bobby Birdman. He’s also been recognized by such bigwigs as David Byrne, who name-dropped Bechtolt’s production on The Blow’s Paper Television in his Artforum Top 10 list, Paris’ Centre Georges Pompidou, where he was commissioned for a large-scale performance, and Vibe Magazine, who touted Bechtolt as ‘indie rock’s Timbaland’ in their review of YACHT’s I Believe In You. Your Magic Is Real. (2007, Marriage Records)

Evans, whose vocals have been featured on previous YACHT recordings, joined the band full-time in 2008. She’s a science writer and artist and who came to music through the underground Los Angeles noise scene. She writes a popular blog called Universe, about the intersection of art and science, for the ScienceBlogs network. She has presented her earnestly cosmic PowerPoint performances at MoMA PS1, The Kitchen, and the Portland Institute for Contemporary Art, spoken at the Rubin Museum of Art about extraterrestrial life, written a collaborative book on art and science at Carnegie Mellon University, made commissioned films for the World Science Festival and SEED Magazine, and has collaborated with Bechtolt on literally hundreds of projects since they met in 2004.

The High Strung Announce New Album: ?Posible o' Imposible?

2012-02-08T06:48:00.000-05:00

Hear the first single “On Your Way Up” off ?Posible o' Imposible?

The High Strung, and especially frontman Josh Malerman, are enthralled with blending fact and fiction. Malerman's Facebook page declares he worked at “General Faw Faw's Impossible Meats” in 1852 and that he attended “Fabulous Posture University” for the 95 years leading up to 1902. Because of this, their history and experiences are like big riddles, short puzzles that are as artistic as the albums they've made. And of their six albums, none captures this fascination with the absurd better than the new one, rightly called ?Posible o' Imposible?

When describing how the band formed, Malerman either discusses grade schools and gym classes or, more recently, mental homes, where he says he was a patient and guitarist Stephen Palmer was an orderly, before the two realized they worked well together and busted out.

The rhythm section of Chad Stocker (bass) and Derek Berk (drums) are everything a music fan relishes; explosive, original, and danceable, too. When describing them, Malerman says he can't remember if they “planted” him or if he planted them but “either way we grew out of the ground and picked each other and presented one another to mother in a vase.”

The songs on ?Posible o' Imposible? are just as enigmatic. Thinking big is the main thread, but maybe it should be described as “imagining” big. The album is home to many modern characters, most of whom are on the verge of creating a grand spectacle. The hunter who tires of animals and seeks out black holes and planets in “Big Game Hunter”. The man who has toiled in obscurity only to be flooded with opportunities in “On Your Way Up!”. The man who experiences the weather before his peers in “Giant.” And, most notably, the world described in “Rats, Rats, Rats” where “there's a job opening for a clerk at the Church of Satan” and a “dance tonight at the Church of Raging Hormones.”

The High Strung do not present themselves as ironic; their absurdist scenarios are delivered in a way that reveals they mean it. And the band is on their way up, having scored the theme song for Showtime's new hit series Shameless, starring William H. Macy as an impossibly drunk father.

Live, the band verges on a variety show, traveling hucksters who have, as Malerman says, “between a dozen and two dozen melodies in jars, rhythms too, sentences too, and, on stage, if we get lucky, we open the corresponding jars so the songs make real sense.” The best known document detailing the experience of the band's live show is a lengthy article in Vanity Fair that covers a two-show trip to Guantanamo Bay where Malerman fell in love with a female soldier, Berk was housed with an over zealous interrogator, and the boys “drank more rum than water.”

The High Strung are a rock band, of this there is no doubt, but one that clearly adores music, successfully injecting all this incredulity, absurdity, and irrationality into ?Posible o' Imposible? and the shows that will accompany it. It's the type of album kids will be downloading, illegally or not, as they discuss whether or not it's true that Berk's drums talk to him or, as Malerman says, “the first time we practiced together, the very first time we played, the boys all struck a C chord at the same time, without preamble. But I sang a D. And instead of thinking we'd fallen short of some cosmic relationship that was meant to be, I immediately understood we were destined to do something... different.”

Amy Gore & Her Valentines Day Show at Sindbad's Feb 10 2012 - Sinbads Detroit - 2/10

2012-02-07T23:46:00.001-05:00

Happy Valentines Day!
Rock with us on the Detroit River!

Friday, February 10 2012
Sindbad's Restaurant and Marina
100 St. Clair St, Detroit, MI 48214

Amy Gore & Her Valentines
The Sin-Bads
The Blastronauts
Doors at 9 PM, $7 !

Valet Parking Mandatory.

Please bring cash!

The Show is upstairs in the romantic Sohar Room!
Music starts promptly at 9:30 PM!
Get there early to grab a table. This WILL sell out!

MONDAYS THROUGH APRIL: Martin Bandyke's Moving Pictures Film Series @ Mich Ann Arbor

2012-02-07T14:53:00.000-05:00

Oh, now, this is worth the trip out to Ann Arbor. A carefully-curated selection of music-themed movies at the gorgeous Michigan Theater, one of my favorite places ever. Check out the selections!

Martin Bandyke's

Moving Pictures Film Series

Mondays at 7:00

February 6 through April 30

Michigan Theater

603 East Liberty St., Ann Arbor

Ann Arbor's 107one radio host Martin Bandyke is as much a movie maven as a music aficionado. He has long been an Art House film fan and Michigan Theater booster, and we are so pleased to be working with him as he celebrates his 30th anniversary year in radio. Martin has assembled a special collection of music-themed movies for all movie and music fans to enjoy.

Check the site for full schedule details!

THE ANATOMY OF VINCE GUARALDI

February 6

I AM TRYING TO BREAK YOUR HEART

February 13

JOY DIVISION with A TRIP TO THE MOON

February 20

8 MILE

February 27

GIMME SHELTER

March 5

WHO IS HARRY NILSSON (AND WHY IS EVERYBODY TALKIN' 'BOUT HIM)?

March 12

DON'T LOOK BACK

March 26

TOM DOWD & THE LANGUAGE OF MUSIC

April 2

BLANK CITY

April 16

MONTEREY POP
April 23

JAZZ ON A SUMMER'S DAY
April 30

FREE TICKETS: Band of Skulls - St Andrews Hall Detroit - 4/2

2012-02-07T12:51:00.000-05:00

We are projecting a while out on this one but hey we like Band of Skulls and we have a pair of tix to giveaway if you hit us up nicely at motorcityblog@earthlink.net

Get tickets for the April 2nd show here

www.bandofskulls.com

Art world comes to Detroit (for a good cause) - TheDetroiter.com 2/29 & 3/3/12

2012-02-07T12:41:00.001-05:00

TheDetroiter.com
First Annual Art Show and Panel Discussion

2/29/12
&
3/3/12

Beauty Debate Art Show

For its First Annual Invitational Show titled Beauty Debate, TheDetroiter.com invites 18 established and emerging artists from New York, Michigan, Indiana, and California to explore concepts of beauty in contemporary art. These artists will create a dialogue about beauty that will challenge and delight viewers.

The show features rising stars, such as Man Bartlett (New York), who has been featured in Art in America, ARTnews, and LA Weekly, among other publications, and established artists like Tim White-Sobieski (Berlin/New York), who is a critically acclaimed international multimedia artist whose work has shown at the Prague Biennale, the Lyon Biennale, and the Bucharest Biennale and nationally recognized performance artist Clarina Bezzola who was recently the guest of honor at the Pool Art Fair, Gershwin Hotel, New York, New York. And there will be a selection of local favorites that are also rising stars, such as Topher Crowder and Brian Barr.
A complete list of artists can be found at TheDetroiter.com's website and its Facebook page for this event.

The show opens March 3 at Art Effect Gallery in the Eastern Market area of Detroit, Michigan, and it runs through April 21. The show opens at 8 p.m., but there will be a special charity preview at 6:30 p.m. where Morada Blue Swimwear will conduct a fashion show with a sneak peek of its upcoming collection. The suggested donation for the charity preview is $25, and a portion of those funds and funds from the sale of select pieces of art will go towards establishing a writing fellowship for TheDetroiter.com through the YMCA's Y-Arts program. Checks can be made payable to YMCA-Detroit, TheDetroiter.com.

Beauty Debate Panel Discussion

Prior to the show, TheDetroiter.com will moderate a panel discussion with artists, art critics, and art enthusiats at The Boll Family YMCA theatre on February 29, 2012 (beginning at 7 p.m). Among others, panelists include Tate Osten, Director of Kunsthalle-Detroit Museum; Vince Carducci, art critic and Assistant Dean and Interim Chair of Fine Arts at College for Creative Studies; Travis Wright, reporter for WDET, cultural editor for Metro Times; Hrag Vartanian, co-founder and editor of Hyperallergic.com (one of the most influential art blogs); and Stephen Maine, artist, writer, and curator (he is the art book editor for art critic David Cohen's artcritical.com).

A complete list of panelists can be found at TheDetroiter.com's website and its Facebook page for this event.

Charity Preview

Inspired by the beautiful sunny skies, crystal blue waters and idyllic weather of Islamorada, Florida, Morada Blue Swimwear incorporates the best of the best creating the perfect suit for every woman. The swimwear line's creator, Kathryn Johann describes the innovative line as flirty and fun with a flattering fit. During the charity preview, Morada Blue will give gallery goers a sneak peek at their upcoming new line with a bikini fashion show. In line with the cold weather outside, the models will also showcase fur coats provided by Lazare's of Grosse Pointe. Also during the charity preview, gallery goers will be treated to premium liquors provided by High Liquors. High Liquors is a new ultra-premium beverage brand offering four spirits: tequila, vodka, whiskey, and rum. The products are sourced from independent distilleries around the world, and custom packaged in Temperance, Michigan. During this event, Gemmayze, a Lebanese restaurant in Royal Oak, will provide delicious food for everyone—Gemmayze is less than a year old and has already established itself as a premier dining experience.

Finally, DJ AX is an artist, musician, rock climber, and business owner, and during the opening he will use his immense DJ skills to bring Beauty Debate

"a hypnotic mix of old and new music created with a mix of old and new technology."

Again, the majority of funds received during the charity preview go towards

establishing a writing fellowship for TheDetroiter.com.

Solo Galleries
Hope against Odds

In solo gallery 1, Colin Darke will show some of his latest pieces from his Hope against Odds series. This series was borne of his relationship with and optimism for Detroit. He paints energetic hummingbirds in a German Expressionist manner juxtaposed against abstract imagery of Detroit "to highlight the many layers of issues at play when one truly reflects on Detroit as a community, rather than Detroit as a headline."

Fiber / Paintings

In solor gallery 2, Kelly Darke will show her newest series of work, Fiber/Paintings. Kelly's current work focuses on the layers of human emotion and the healing power of art, specifically fiber art. Humans have a tremendous capacity to create something from nothing and to repair, physically and emotionally, our lives and the world around us. Kelly and Colin, who are a brother and sister art team, will also showcase new collabarative work.

The art world comes to Detroit. "We put the show and the panel together to foster a continued and robust art dialogue in Detroit," said Colin Darke, Editor-in-Chief of TheDetroiter.com (and a Detroit-based artist, writer, and attorney). To that end, TheDetroiter.com invited art world stars and up-and-coming voices from California, Indiana, Michigan, and New York to Detroit to explore concepts of beauty in contemporary art. The show and the panel discussion seek to be the first step in establishing an art criticism writing fellowship with TheDetroiter.com (which is owned and operated by the YMCA-Detroit's Y-Arts program).

Beauty Debate Art Show
March 3, 2012 through April 21, 2012
Opening March 3, 2012 6:30 p.m. until 10:00 p.m.

(Charity Preview 6:30 p.m. through 8:00 p.m.)

Art Effect Gallery
Detroit's historic Eastern Market at 1420 E. Fisher Fwy.
Detroit, Michigan 48207
http://arteffectdetroit.blogspot.com/

Beauty Debate Panel Discussion
February 29, 2012
7 p.m. through 9 p.m.

Boll Family YMCA, Theatre (first floor by front door)
1401 Broadway Street
Detroit, Michigan 48226
http://www.ymcadetroit.org

FREE VINYL / TICKETS: Quintron & Miss Pussycat - Lager House - 5/10

2012-02-07T10:30:00.000-05:00

Save the date for Quintron & Miss Pussycat

who are coming back to Detroit on May 10th 2012

to play a show at PJs Lager House Detroit

The band is inviting you out to the show

and would like to offer up a pair of tickets

as well as a kick ass double stacked pack of wax

to one lucky reader

email motorcityblog@earthlink.net

for your chance to win

http://www.quintronandmisspussycat.com/

MOTORCITYBLOG

Wild At Heart

UPCOMING: THE COMPOSURE set to "Stay The Course" at 4731 Gallery Detroit on 3/22

LAC LA BELLE perform with ORPHEUM BELL at Trinity House Theatre - 3/9

FREE VINYL & UPCOMING RECORD RELEASE SHOW: Andre Williams - Blind Pig Ann Arbor - March 24th 2012

ALL MONTH: Hard Rock Cafe Detroit Hosts Hard Rock Rising - Thursday nights in March 2012

Hard Rock Cafe Detroit Hosts Hard Rock Rising

Global Battle of the Bands Competition Gives metro Detroit Up-and-Coming Bands the Chance to

Take the Stage at Hard Rock Calling 2012

Uptown Film Festival to Benefit Gleaners

UPCOMING: The Elizabeth Theater Proudly Presents Louis Aguilar's The Troublemakers: Frida and Diego in Detroit - Tues-Thurs 3/20-3/22 2012

Imminent Sonic Destruction CD Release Party

SLAW-Something Like A War

Tomorrow: Detroit Derby Girls at the Masonic Temple

Show review: SHREK THE MUSICAL @ The Fisher Theater (currently playing)

Recap: Yacht at the Pike Room

The 2012 Metrotimes Blowout Starts Tonight

FREE Tickets Vinyls and other goodies from MCB Vacation - Child Bite, Saw Doctors, Lyle Lovett, Ty Stone, Human Nature, Blue Snaggletooth, Band of Skulls

Gentle Reminder: Boom Chick has a free show at the Crofoot

SLAW- Something Like A War by John Kalogerakos

DO NOT MISS: Noir Fetish Event Sat March 3rd

New Book about the Cass Corridor

Wild At Heart

Show Preview: Zeds Dead, AraabMUZIK and Omar Linx ROMT, Sat. Mar. 3rd

Show Review: Big Gigantic, Paper Diamond and K@Dog

VOLBEAT

Archie Powell and the Exports - Quarters - Milwaukee - 2/24/12

Upcoming: Fight for Air Climb, March 4th

Show Review: Guns N Roses - The Fillmore Feb 21

Show Review - 12th Planet-Flinch Magic Stick Feb. 17th 2012

TGIFAF! Free Art Friday

GOOD MORNING GIVEAWAY - Tickets to Dim Mak's DEADMEAT Tour 2/25

UPCOMING: SHREK THE MUSICAL February 28- March 11 at The Fisher Theatre in Detroit

Upcoming Show:This Friday- Black Jake & The Carnies with Rock and Rummage at Woodruff's

K@Dog Part of Big Gigantic Show tomorrow!

"Rock of Ages" Review by Peter Schorn

Rusko - in Ann Arbor Tomorrow

THIS SAT: Subgenius Devival feat. AMINO ACIDS

TONIGHT- Guns N' Roses with Sponge at The Fillmore (RARE CLUB SHOW)

Wild At Heart

More Pictures from Dirty Show

THE EROTIC POETRY & MUSIC FESTIVAL 25th Anniversary Show!

REVIEW: No.VI Chophouse - "Lover's Feast" by The Olive Beats

Dirty Show Held Over!

BOURBON ST. MEETS MAIN ST. - RORA 8TH ANNUAL MARDI GRAS & MUSIC FESTIVAL

UPCOMING: DETROIT BIKE CITY - 1st Annual Detroit Bike Show & Swap Meet - Cobo Center - March 24th 2012

Detroit Bike City will be held on March 24, 2012

from 10:00 am6:00 pm

in The Michigan Hall at COBO Center.

Admission is $8 and is free for kids under 12

Check out the FaceBook Event Page

NEXT FRI: CD Release Party for Imminent Sonic Destruction @ Magic Bag

Premier: Anya Marina "Notice Me"

MOVEMENT - Detroit Electronic Music Festival - Phase 1 Lineup Announced!

CASTING CALL

Show Preview: 12th Planet and Flinch Friday, Feb. 17th, the Magic Stick

You still have time to catch The Dirty Show 13...

Gwen Joy's Solo Art Showing February 15th at Motor City Brewery in Detroit

NEXT WEEK: Brewing Chemistry - Traffic Jam Detroit - Tues 2/21

FREE VINYL & SHOW: Boom Chick - Vernors Room Crofoot Pontiac - 2/29

MOTORHEAD

Wild At Heart

The Bodies Obtained "Who Knows Who's Right"

PHOTOS & REVIEW: DARK STAR ORCHESTRA - 2/9/2012

UPCOMING: K-Holes return with Dismania play Lager House Detroit on March 30th 2012

[ S E X U A L ¦ T E N S I O N ] I I I - L O V E S H A C K - D E T R O I T

FREE VINYL: The Pharmacy - Trumbullplex Theatre Detroit - Tuesday 2/21

Show Preview: Big Gigantic at Royal Oak Music Theatre Friday, Feb 24

8000 posts on MCB - FREE Tickets and CDs - KATIE GRACE - Pjs Lager House Detroit - Sat 2/18

OPENING: Clean as a Whistle: Detroit's Finest Tattoos Artists @ 323East

DO NOT MISS: “Beyond the Machine” - Start Gallery Detroit - 2/24 - 3/3 2012

GriT Vol.2 February 10-11 - Opening Reception Friday Night, 7pm-12am

IDEAL VALENTINE EVENT: Detroit Camper & RV Show

THIS SAT: Showtime Clothing Hearts Detroit FREE SHOW

THIS SAT: Detroit Party Marching Band Mardi Gras @ Lager House

2012 Academy Award Nominated Short Films @ DFT

Vanhalentines Day - Saturday at Corktown Tavern

MCB ROAD TRIP: The Balconies - Hamilton ONTARIO - Tues Feb 21st

FREE TICKETS: Declaration of War - Main Art Royal Oak - Fri 2/17

UPCOMING: MythBusters LIVE @ the Fox, 16 March

from 10:00 am6:00 pm