G is for Green Line, the new DART rail service with a stop at the State Fair of Texas' front door. The 2.7 mile section connects with other DART rail lines, making it a no-brainer for families that don't want to fight the traffic or pay fairground parking fees just to see Big Tex.
Fun fact: DART stands for Dallas Area Rapid Transit, though the word rapid seems to be used loosely. Plan in extra time for multiple station stops and other unforeseen breaks in service.
Ben Folds has kept his musical success churning since going solo in 2001, though he's a lot lower-profile than when he fronted buzzy band Ben Folds Five. The Dallas Symphony Orchestra's majestic sound should support his earnest, heartfelt vocals -- and his piano -- nicely. 8 p.m. Meyerson Symphony Center, 2301 Flora St. $100 (cheaper tickets are sold out). 214-692-0203. dallassymphony.com.
The Get Up Kids perform with Plus Youth Group and Pretty and Nice. 8 p.m. Granada Theater, 3524 Greenville Ave. $20. 214-824-9933. tickets.granadatheater.com.
At 17 years old, Dallas blues singer-guitarist Hunter Hendrickson already has endorsement deals with amplifier and guitar strap brands. His debut EP, Behind the Notes, is a result of his collaborations with New Bohemians member Kenny Withrow. 7 p.m. House of Blues' Cambridge Room, 2200 N. Lamar St. $10. 1-800-745-3000. ticketmaster.com.
I Heart Wednesday at Plush. 12-Inch Pimp and resident DJ Willie Trimmer spins hip-hop, house, and Top 40. 9 p.m. 1400 Main St. No cover. 214-606-1203. plushdallas.com.
Resident DJ Francisco spins electro-house at Hotel Capri. $3 shot specials and $4 wells. Doors at 6 p.m. 2020 Greenville Ave. No cover. 214-370-9944. thehotelcapri.com.
The much-hyped horror film Paranormal Activity, which I blogged about recently, opened in limited release last Friday -- but not in Dallas. Thanks to the online campaign called Demand It!, the super-low-budget movie will land in Big D theaters this Friday. Can't wait!
Critics and sneak-peekers have breathlessly described Paranormal Activity as the next Blair Witch Project, even the best scary film in the last decade or two. A young couple believes an evil force inhabits their home and does horrible things to them during the night, so they set up a camcorder in their bedroom to record any goings-on. And the horror high jinks ensue. But will it live up to the hype? We shall see ...
F is for Fletcher's Corny Dog. If you didn't see this one coming a mile away, you must not be Texan. No other F word is more synonymous with the fair, as 4-yr-old Landyn Freeman demonstrates in the photo above. The Fletcher brothers invented the corny dog and first sold it at the Texas State Fair in 1942.
It is estimated that nearly 500,000 deep-fried dogs are sold at the fair each year, many of them purchased and eaten by me. No wonder my pants get tighter every year.
It's still a thrill for any hard rock fan to see Metallica live. Especially if you've wasted entire days of your life perfecting your performances on the group's Rock Band game. Not that we'd do such a thing. Ahem. 7 p.m. American Airlines Center, 2500 Victory Ave. $49.50 and $69.50. ticketmaster.com.
Austin's And You Will Know Us By the Trail of Dead and Dallas-raised Secret Machines co-headline at the Granada Theater. With opening act Ume. 8 p.m. 3524 Greenville Ave. $15 and $18. tickets.granadatheater.com.
Super Tuesdays at the Hotel Capri. DJ Tek-neek spins dance and hip-hop mash-ups. Doors at 5 p.m. Happy hour from 5:30 to 8 p.m. 2020 Greenville Ave. No cover. 214-370-9944. thehotelcapri.com.
Denton DJ Yeahdef presents his weekly '90s night. 10 p.m. Hailey's, 122 Mulberry St., Denton. $5 for under 21, no cover for over 21. 940-323-1160. haileysclub.com.
Disqo Disco at Fallout Lounge, hosted by Sydney Confirm DJs. 835 Exposition Drive. 10 p.m. myspace.com/disqodisco.
New CDs in stores today: Miranda Lambert's Revolution, Paramore's Brand New Eyes, Breaking Benjamin's Dear Agony, Mariah Carey's Memoirs of an Imperfect Angel, Alice in Chains' Black Gives Way to Blue. New DVDs:Monsters vs. Aliens, Away We Go.
Producer Michael Bay brings us this reboot of the Freddie Krueger franchise. This time, Jackie Earle Haley dons the crisp-faced villain's signature red-striped sweater to terrorize a new generation of idiot teenagers. Gotta say, though, this relaunch looks stylish and polished in a Dark Knight sort of way. Haley seems menacing enough in the role, but besides repeating the well-known anti-Kruger mantra "don't fall asleep," the trailer doesn't seem to hint at much of anything new in the film, except, of course, concocting new ways for teens to die horrible deaths. But if that's your thing, you're probably not looking for an Oscar-quality reboot.
Release date: April 30, 2010
Chance of box office success: For now it's the only wide release on this particular week, so it should clean up nicely ... until the next weekend when Iron Man 2 opens and obliterates everything.
Should you see it?: Yes ... if you're brave enough. You can hold my hand.
Yeah, there are tons of bars to crash at to watch tonight's game against the Carolina Panthers, but how many of them serve sushi? Geisha House and Roppongi Lounge will host a free-admission party where guests can enjoy free sushi from 6 to 8 p.m. with a drink purchase and watch the game on four plasma TVs and one huge screen. Pitchers of Roppongi Ritas or sangrias can be had for $20 whilst you watch the 'Boys clobber -- we hope! -- Carolina.
I did it. I had the much-ballyhooed deep-fried butter at the State Fair. Judged as this year's most creative new fried food, the buttery balls of dough were ... creative. Unlike with last year's most-popular treat, deep-fried bacon, I couldn't eat more than one bite. When I stuck my plastic fork into one of the cherry-sauced (YES, y'all, that's cherry sauce, not ketchup) dumplings, a fountain of melted butter spurted out and mixed with the puddle of cherry to create a fruit-and-oil spill. As my friends looked on, I snarfed down half a butterball. It was ... buttery. And doughy. And I was done. On to the fried green tomatoes!
Did you know that local musician Eric Neal (The Slack, countless other bands) makes puppets? No? Well, now you do. You can see his creations in action in a video just produced by Neal, also starring the singing and songwriting talents of his significant other, Camille Cortinas. The vid's super cute -- kids should eat it up. I could totally see Sesame Street snatching this couple up.
E is for Elsie the Cow. The famous spokescow celebrates her 70th birthday this year. She can be seen at the Borden booth (inside the Food and Fiber Pavilion), where fairgoers can take pictures with the iconic bovine.
On a side note, don't be fooled into thinking you are meeting Russell Crowe. Elsie may look like the famous actor, but the lack of constant swearing should give it away.
Here's a treat: a second visit this year from Japanese punk band Peelander-Z. Expect raucous rock and crazy outfits -- each band member wears bright colors, wigs and glasses coordinated to their names (Peelander-Yellow, for example). With Birthday Suits and Stew. 9 p.m. Rubber Gloves, 411 E. Sycamore St., Denton. $10. rubberglovesdentontx.com.
Celebrate Oktoberfest at Cafe Expresso as the Italian restaurant adds to the menu these German mouthfuls: wienerschntizel, bratwurst, sauerbraten, calf's liver and other faves, wines and beers. 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. 6135 Luther Lane. Entrees from $15.95 to $27.95. 214-361-6984.
The Starlight Parade brightens the night at the State Fair with illuminated floats full of color, music and motion. Watch for a leaping dolphin, a giant jack-in-the-box and turning windmills, among other moving creations. 7:15 p.m. Fair Park, 3809 Grand Ave. Free with cost of admission. bigtex.com.
Cool Out Mondays features the spins and music of Schwa, Fugita 5, Hot Flash, Big J and the Clever Monkeys. Plus, it's happy hour all night! 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. The Cavern, 1914 Lower Greenville. Free. thecaverndallas.com.
Live up being single (or drown it out) at Singles Nite with DJ Mr. Rid at the Double Wide. 10 p.m. 3510 Commerce St. Free. 214-887-6510 or double-wide.com.
In the Dallas Cowboys' first Monday night game of the season, they take on the Carolina Panthers at home. 7:30 p.m. Cowboys Stadium, 925 N. Collins St., Arlington. $75-$239. ticketmaster.com. Or watch it on ESPN or TXA 21.
Saturday night I attended the opening-night bash for Stephan Pyles' latest local restaurant, Samar. The cuisine available for tasting at the new downtown spot reflected a fusion of Middle Eastern and Indian foods and flavors: samosas (potato and chocolate), piping-hot pitas and hummus, marinated cheeses and a Lebanese-esque beef quesadilla-like dish were all I got a chance to sample, because this place was PACKED! Although belly dancers drew a sizable crowd to the patio, things were elbow-to-elbow indoors, especially at the bars, where the food and the signature drink, the Pama-infused Samartini, had everyone glued to their spots.
Still, the nibbles and sips I had were flavorful, and the harem-esque decor quite delightful. Probably the best part of the evening, however, was the people-watching ... or should I say fashion-watching? Shout-out to the gent who wore a handsome pinstriped button-down paired with tight shorts.
D is for Dancing. The State Fair of Texas showcases 59 different ethnic and cultural dance groups from all over the lone star state. The groups, sponsored by the Texas Cultural Partnership, perform on weekends in front of the Hall of State.
Unfortunately, these dance styles won't be showing up on the local club scene any time soon. For some reason, it just isn't the same when performed to Lady GaGa's "Poker Face".
Where: Holiday Inn Market Center (4500 Harry Hines Blvd, Dallas)
Cost: $3 entry, free parking
If you're a dedicated record enthusiast or looking for vintage 12" inch vinyl then heads up for this Sunday's Dallas Record Swap. The album swap meet will be a smorgasbord of vinyl LPs, 45s, CDs and other classic memorabilia for music heads. The event starts at 11 a.m., so the hip-hop producers that are digging in the crates for those rare grooves need to get there early!
C is for Cotton Bowl, the historic football stadium that sits in the middle of the fairgrounds. Construction on the Cotton Bowl was started in 1930 and the stadium opened two years later. It was once home to the Dallas Cowboys and has played host to numerous high school, college and professional football games.
Delicious thoughts: As I'd blogged earlier this week, I had a fabulous Spanish dinner at Abacus, featuring Mediterranean-inspired treats, meaning lots of shellfish and lots of manchego cheese! The centerpiece of the meal that night, however was the paella in broth. Served with plump mussels and brimming with tender shrimp and chorizo dice, the dish was a taste sensation -- all that savory goodness paired with the smoky bread shot the entree out of the ballpark. Go and try it -- you only have until next Wednesday to savor the Spanish menu. Don't say I didn't remind you ...
To celebrate the start of the 2009 State Fair of Texas, we are giving you a second heapin' helpin' of fair fun. Y'all best be comin' back every day for new installments (did that sound country enough?)
B is for Bill Bragg, the voice of Big Tex. Big Tex debuted at the Texas State Fair in 1952 and stands 52 feet tall. Bill is the seventh "voice" of Big Tex and took over the position in 2002.
In advance of the mid-October release of its pop-gems-packed new CD Sorry for Partyin', local boys done good Bowling For Soup stopped at House of Blues last night for a raucous hour-and-a-half set. Tickets were only $7.11 thanks to the official tour sponsor, Slurpee. There was even a Slurpee-shaped guitar trotted out for lead singer Jaret Reddick at one pont. Hey, if you're gonna have a sponsor, pick one that gives you custom git-fiddles, right?
Anyway, read on after the jump for an annotated setlist from last night's show.
The opening of the State Fair of Texas is a big deal to many lone star state residents (I haven't missed a fair in approximately 31 years). However, there are many people who haven't yet set eyes on our beloved Big Tex in person. There are countless children who haven't yet tasted a delicious Fletcher's corny dog. Not visiting the fair should fall just under stomping a Bluebonnet to bits or shooting a Mockingbird on the list of Texas unforgivable crimes.
To help introduce all the wonderful things the fair has to offer, Quick will be presenting The State Fair Alphabet: an A to Z Guide. Each day, you can look for a new letter with a corresponding photo and description, giving both fair virgins and veterans new insight on the 277 acre attraction. With the fair officially opening at 10am (in one minute and counting), we start the series with...
A is for Auto Show, a big part of the State Fair of Texas. Taking up two huge buildings and an outdoor truck area, the auto show is 300,000 square feet of fun. The first automobiles were displayed at the fairgrounds in 1904, but the modern day show developed shortly after World War II.
Soaring on the success of club banger "Blame It," Jamie Foxx takes his sexy R&B on the road. You can bet on slinky rhythms and thumping beats for sure, but here's hoping he also gets behind the piano and seduces us on the ivories. 8 p.m. (also Saturday at 8 p.m.). Nokia Theatre, 1001 Performance Place, Grand Prairie. $49.75 and $69.75. ticketmaster.com.
Jamie Foxx official concert after-party at Wish Ultralounge. Sounds by DJ Irie, Foxx's DJ.
10 p.m. 3001 Knox St., Suite 201. No cover. 214-389-5723.
Most adult Americans didn't realize how much they adored country-pop chanteuse Taylor Swift until big, bad Kanye West ripped a microphone out of her hands at the VMAs. Team Taylor!" 7:30 p.m. American Airlines Center, 2500 Victory Ave. $20-$49.50. ticketmaster.com.
Cheer up, Duckie, it's '80s night. And how can you resist? Especially when a band has memorable hits like the Psychedelic Furs -- "Heartbreak Beat," "Love My Way" and "Pretty in Pink." With Happy Mondays. 8 p.m. House of Blues, 2200 N. Lamar St. $25-$50. ticketmaster.com.
Wiry, goofy comic Daniel Tosh scored his own Comedy Central show earlier this year, called Tosh.0. It's sorta like The Soup, except all the funny clips come from the Web. Catch him in standup mode in the lovely digs of the Majestic Theater. 8 p.m. 1925 Elm St. $28.50. ticketmaster.com.
Tommy C. Productions and Access Dallas present the Hot Bod Bikini Model Search at M Street Bar. Ladies in free till 11 p.m. Music by DJ ATG. 10 p.m. 3520 Greenville Ave. $10. 214-370-5500. accessdallas.com.
The Goldfish Girls at Absinthe Lounge from 8:30 to 10 p.m. Doors at 4 p.m. $4 you-call-its and $5 martinis until 9 p.m. 1409 S. Lamar St. No cover. 214-941-9338.
Kristy Krüger, one of Dallas' most inspired singer-songwriters, will return home after a short festival run in Oregon. Always writing songs, she's probably got some new material to share with the crowd. 8:30 p.m. Opening Bell Southside, 1409 S. Lamar St. Suggested donation of $10. 214-565-0383.
Dallas punk band the Lash Outs falls into the "must-be-experienced-live" category. The songs are fairly simple and straightforward, but their energy onstage is downright infectious With Free to Kill Again and Television City. 8 p.m. Muddy Waters, 4314 Live Oak. Free. 214-823-1518.
Tonight, one of my favorite comedians begins a weekend at the Improv. I like Bill Burr because his material doesn't sound at all forced - he's inherently funny, and his Bahhston accent makes the delivery that much better. Now, it was a little difficult to find a fairly clean YouTube clip, so you'll have to settle for a radio interview (above). But look up his stuff - you'll definitely want to check him out live after that.
Anyhoo, he's the latest celebrity to send us a personal playlist. You'll see that he's got a taste for the classics.
ACDC - Spellbound: Very unique in that it's one of the only AC/DC songs that isn't about balls, the devil, or alcohol.
TED HEATH ORCHESTRA -- Elks Parade: I like this song because I'm a nerd who enjoys big band music played in stereo.
AEROSMITH - Woman of the World: Aerosmith back when they were young and sounded like they all had hepatitis.
HERBIE HANCOCK - Palm Grease: I love all instrumental music from the '70s. (And I don't mean that in an ironic way, you hipster [expletive]s)
PRIMUS - My Friend Fats: Tim Alexander's double bass!
MOTLEY CRUE - Hooligan's Holiday: Underrated cut off that EP when John Corabi took over for Vince Neil.
JANE'S ADDICTION - Then She Did: Beautiful song,
NEIL YOUNG - Unknown Legend: I like this song because it for some reason it makes me think that every decision I made for the last 30 years was the wrong one.
THE PHILADELPHIA EXPERIMENT - Philadelphia Experiment: I love QuestLove's drumming. I also love the album "in a silent way" and this song kind of brings both vibes together.
NAT TOWNSLEY TRIO- Nat Thang: Found about this guy watching a drum video. Love his playing.
As promised in this week's paper, here's the new track from AwkQuarius, the new project from local rappers Pikahsso and Tahiti. "Whackwordz" is certainly not wack, but it is wacky. Let's just say someone's been watching the hell out of 'Sound of Music.'
AwkQuarius, "Whackwordz":
(Right-click here and save to download)
Dallas rapper Tum Tum aka Zillaman is one of DFW's most well-known artists from the local hip-hop scene. His major label affiliated "Caprice Musik" single made noise nationally and he remains a consistent force in the Southern mix tape circuit. We caught up with the busy Tumzilla to get the scoop on his new full length album, "Tum Thousand & 9:The Grassy Knoll".
Check out this week's Quick issue or read here to get the full story, Ya dig!
Last night's show at Superpages.com Center brought forth equal parts pop-punk and potty humor, as headliner Blink-182 and opening acts Fall Out Boy, All-American Rejects and Asher Roth played to a near-capacity crowd.
Roth, the up-and-coming rapper who appeared earlier this summer at House of Blues, and AAR thrilled early arrivers with their respective biggest hits, "College" and "Gives You Hell." Fall Out Boy's 12-song set (including "Dance, Dance" and a tongue-in-cheek cover of "Don't Stop Believin'") was a bit of a mess soundwise, and bassist Pete Wentz was the only member who seemed to care about connecting with the audience.
By contrast, Blink-182's never looked or sounded better. The San Diego three-piece's reunion (after a band breakup five years ago and drummer Travis Barker's near-death experience in a plane crash last year) seems to have lit a fire. Flawless renditions of all their hits were embellished by state-of-the-art lighting, dramatic black curtains and a flying drum platform. Not that Barker needs tricks -- he's an amazing drummer on his own, as evidenced by a couple of breakneck, unbelievable solos.
After the jump, check out last night's setlists from Fall Out Boy and Blink.
Were you captured by our cameras this past weekend at the Double Wide? Click on the picture to see Quick's Club Cam gallery. And check back next Thursday for a new slideshow.
It's been awhile since the Polyphonic Spree played around here, so fans of the super-sized Dallas pop group led by Tim DeLaughter will probably flock to this free show. All you have to do for tickets is sign up at a special Southern Comfort Web site, or send a text. With DJ Lord. 8 p.m. at the Palladium Ballroom, 1135 S. Lamar St. Free. Visit southerncomfort.com/undercover or text "DALLAS" to 68405 for a ticket code.
Denton's pop-punk superstars Bowling for Soup are ramping up for the October release of their album Sorry for Partyin', which features the not-so-subtle first single "My Wena." This is your chance to see the guys in front of a hometown crowd, and tickets are only $7.11, thanks to a tie-in with the tour's sponsor -- duh -- 7-Eleven. With Red Car Wire and Holy Moly. 8 p.m. House of Blues, 2200 N. Lamar St. $7.11. 1-800-745-3000. ticketmaster.com.
Boston funnyman Bill Burr has been one of the better touring comics out there for years, and he got a major boost from his appearances on Chappelle's Show and a Comedy Central special. Expect sharp commentary on relationships, race and current events. 8 p.m. (also various times Friday through Sunday). Addison Improv, 4980 Belt Line Road, Suite 250. $17 and $20. 972-404-8501. improv.com.
Austin singer-songwriter Bob Schneider plays in Dallas so much that he probably considers it his second home. He even found a local label (Kirtland Records) to release his new album, Lovely Creatures. It comes out next week, but Schneider takes the stage at the Granada Theater at 8 p.m. to celebrate it. $19 and $24. granadatheater.com. Hear some tracks at myspace.com/bobschneider.
iCollege presents Class in Session at Purgatory. Everyone with a college ID gets in free until midnight. DJs Billy the Kidd, Hex, Dtrain and ATG spin Top 40 and dance. Doors at 10 p.m. 2208 Main St. $10. 972-567-3068. accessdallas.com.
DJ Woody Rosen spins house and neo-soul, following a spoken-word presentation at Excuses. 9 p.m. 3025 Main St. No cover. 214-741-1111. excusesdeepellum.com.
Tony Rey at Ozona Bar and Grill. $2 well drinks. Music begins at 9 p.m. 4615 Greenville Ave. No cover. 214-265-9105. ozonagrill.com.
Girls Night Out at Plush. $2 martinis until 11 p.m. 5:30 p.m. 1400 Main St. No cover. 214-606-1203. plushdallas.com.
Correction: In the current issue of Quick, the date for comedian Doug Benson's performance at the McKinney Performing Arts Center is incorrect. He will perform Friday night at the McKinney venue. More info here.
Mark your calendar, we now have a grand opening date for downtown's newest nightspot, Thrive. Doors will open at 9:30 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 2 at the club inside the renovated Crowne Plaza Hotel at 1015 Elm St. Described as a Vegas-style haunt, Thrive will welcome Pussycat Doll Kaya Jones for a special performance, as well as several celebrities-in-their-mind from MTV and VH1 reality shows Paris Hilton's My BFF and Daisy of Love.
Future guest hosts include members of Rock of Love's "Blondetourage" Ashley and Farrah, and Daisy De La Hoya of Daisy of Love.
Sounds like there'll be a lot to see and hear at the upcoming lounge, according to a news release. Check it out after the jump ...
Continuing with my Abacus-raving (see below) ... I sampled the Spanish menu there last night. Fabulosity on a plate! And in a glass -- we had wine pairings. First we started off with the Big Daddy signature cocktail, which was a sweet, lemony delight! I was afraid of it being too puckery, but the sweet and sour balanced out the tartness. Next up was a plate of traditional Spanish bites: manchego croquettes, Serrano ham, pan con tomate, manchego chunks and olives and almonds. What's not to love?
Post-tapas, we had clams drowning in garlic, herbs and brothy deliciousness, with a butter-drenched side of thick toast. Just look at those succulent little morsels up there. The thought "taste explosion" kept running through my head -- I didn't want the dish to EVER end.
Also on the limited-time Spanish menu are foie gras (which I skipped), a soupy paella with mussels, shrimp and diced chorizo, and a star-anise-flavored Calatrava pudding. The five-course menu is $45 without the wine pairings, and you better hurry to Abacus to enjoy it -- the menu will only be offered until Sept. 30.
Before you get your undies in a bunch wondering how you can afford a fine-dining joint like Abacus in the middle of a recession, know that the Knox-Henderson-area restaurant is trying to help out. Not only do they have recession-beating deals all week, but on Wednesday nights, eats in the luxe bar are half off! And -- bonus -- if you stick around for the late happy hour from 9 p.m. to close, you can enjoy $2 off all beer, wines by the glass and cocktails! So treat yourself to a bev and a specialty sushi roll, recessionistas and recessionistos.
Been listening to Cocoon of Love, the album coming Sept. 29 from LA indie pop band Princeton. The foursome deftly incorporates Beach Boy harmonies, light African rhythms and '80s mope-vocals (see above video) into its tunes. It's a mix I find hard to resist.
The guys will stop at the Granada tonight to open for equally ear-pleasing band Ra Ra Riot. Princeton drummer David Kitz was nice enough to put together a little playlist to give us an idea of what inspires him and his bandmates. Read on:
1. Michael McDonald: "What a fool believes" -- This song never gets old for me. Although it's cheezy, it's a deceptively complex and well crafted pop song ... and I love Michael's smoky voice.
2. Gilberto Gil: "Marginalia II" -- This one is from his album, '1968.' The whole record is amazing but this one always stood out to me. It has incredible horn arrangements and cool rhythms.
3. Neu!: "After Eight" -- This is the last of the 6 tracks on 'Neu! '75.' It's a great example of what made them so great. It's minimal, energetic, and I always though it was a great closer for the record.
4. The Beach Boys: "Let Him Run Wild" -- This song is just really full of great hooks and harmonies. This is another track that never gets old for me.
5. Emitt Rhodes: "With my face on the floor" -- This one opens his self-titled record and is full of driving energy... definitely a feel-good song.
Blink-182 and Fall Out Boy couldn't have a better musical match than each other. Both have an infectious sense of fun in their music (and videos), with the reunited Blink's, humorous slice-of-life tunes ("What's My Age Again?") and Fall Out producing catchy melodies polished off with Patrick Stump's soulful singing ("Dance, Dance"). 6:30 p.m. Superpages.com Center, 1818 1st Ave. $25-$69.50. ticketmaster.com.
Pink's been through her ups and downs in the music biz, but she always seems to come out on top. Most of the time, it's with the power of a delectable pop song. Her latest hits include the sassy kiss-off number "So What" and the rousing love song "Please Don't Leave Me." 7:30 p.m. American Airlines Center, 2500 Victory Ave. $39.50 and $49.50. ticketmaster.com.
Fans of arty avant-garde pop will like New York's Ra Ra Riot, which mixes violin and cello perfectly with its Morrissey-influenced vocals. With opening acts Maps & Atlases and Princeton. 8 p.m. Granada Theater, 3524 Greenville Ave. $14 and $18. 214-824-9933. granadatheater.com.
Helloooooo.com presents the Ish Wednesdays at Ghostbar. New York City DJ Tommie Sunshine headlines, and Dallas' HOYO TOHO opens. 9 p.m. 2440 Victory Park Lane. No cover. 214-720-9909. n9negroup.com.
Dru Kaba and Sam Sameni host Old School Wednesday at Glo. DJ Kurupt spins early '90s hip-hop. 10 p.m. 2323 N. Henderson. No cover. 214-824-2251. glo-lounge.com.
I Heart Wednesday at Plush. 12-Inch Pimp and resident DJ Willie Trimmer spins hip-hop, house, and Top 40. 9 p.m. 1400 Main St. No cover. 214-606-1203. plushdallas.com.
Resident DJ Francisco spins electro-house at Hotel Capri. $3 shot specials and $4 wells. Doors at 6 p.m. 2020 Greenville Ave. No cover. 214-370-9944. thehotelcapri.com.
Knox Street Pub owner Blake Bogus has informed me that an upcoming karaoke night at the bar will benefit a great, local cause.
On Oct. 1, a portion of every drink sold will go to Shelley's Heroes, a local team participating in and raising money for the Alliance for Lupus Research's annual walkathon.
Lupus is a chronic, autoimmune disease in which the sufferer's immune system attacks the body's own cells and tissue. It most often harms the joints, lungs, heart, skin and kidneys.
Shelley Shuttlesworth was a recent college grad when she learned she had lupus in 2000, and now she raises awareness and funds for the Walk With Us event, which takes place Oct. 3. Find more information on the walk here, and raise your glass to fighting lupus at Knox on Oct. 1.
If you like singer Jason Castro AND free jeans, draw a little heart with dreadlocks on your calendar for Saturday, when the American Idol contestant and Rockwall resident hits NorthPark to sing in The Gap store's new look.
The first 69 customers to the store get a free pair of 1969 Premium Jeans and at 12:30 p.m., Castro takes the mic to sing a set that's sure to include his fun new single "Let's Just Fall in Love Again." Who knows, he just might need a chorus of whistlers to whistle in that happy intro...
Castro will also be performing the night before at the State Fair at 8:30 p.m. on the Chevrolet Main Stage.
Add some romance and mystery to your night with a performance from large mariachi band Mariachi Quetzal. Be sure to request "Ring of Fire." You won't be disappointed. 10 p.m. Dan's Silverleaf, 109 Industrial St. No cover. 940-320-2000. danssilverleaf.com.
Comedian Kirk Smith and the 4th Wall improv troupe star in Laugh in Relief!, a comedy event to benefit war victims of Sri Lanka. 8 p.m. Hyena's Comedy Club, 5321 E. Mockingbird Lane, Suite 220. $17.214-823-5233. hyenascomedynightclub.com.
Denton DJ Yeahdef presents his weekly '90s night. 10 p.m. Hailey's, 122 Mulberry St., Denton. $5 for under 21, no cover for over 21. 940-323-1160. haileysclub.com.
Disqo Disco at Fallout Lounge, hosted by Sydney Confirm DJs. 835 Exposition Drive. 10 p.m. myspace.com/disqodisco.
Scott Stapp and the reunited Creed perform at 7:30 p.m. at Superpages.com Center, 1818 1st Ave. $20-$85. ticketmaster.com.
Super Tuesdays at the Hotel Capri. DJ Tek-neek spins dance and hip-hop mash-ups. Doors at 5 p.m. Happy hour from 5:30 to 8 p.m.2020 Greenville Ave. No cover. 214-370-9944. thehotelcapri.com.
New CDs in stores today: David Gray's Draw the Line, Sean Kingston's Tomorrow, Harry Connick Jr.'s Your Songs, Mika's The Boy Who Knew Too Much, Three Days Grace's Life Starts Now. New DVDs:Observe and Report, Ghosts of Girlfriends Past.
Here's a trailer I've been waiting for months to see. Much-touted as Zac Efron's first "grown-up" movie, Me and Orson Welles seems as if it might live up to its early buzz. Oddly, the U.K. version of the trailer, which I've posted here, gives a much better glimpse into the film's plot.
Efron plays a teenager who wants to star in a Shakespeare adaptation directed on the stage by a young Orson Welles (Christian McKay). During the turbulent production of the play, Efron carries on a flirtation with Claire Danes, who plays some kind of stage manager. An older stage manager. Who happens to be somewhat romantically tangled with Welles. Mucho drama ensues, although so does some kissing. Throughout, Efron and his hair shine like a gem in this movie, his charm and acting talent really coming through. Here's hoping the movie lives up to the trailer's promise.
Release date: Nov. 25, in limited release
Chance of box office success: Could be fantastic. If it connects as an indie release, word-of-mouth could drive the wide release into big-hit territory.
Should you see it?: Yes, if you like a good movie. HELL, yes, if you adore Zac Efron and his hair.
A flashmob dance to the theme song from Fame broke out at the DMA's Late Night Friday event a few days ago, courtesy of Booker T. Washington High students. Pretty cool stuff -- were you there?
Rock supergroup Chickenfoot has an odd combination of members (Sammy Hagar and Michael Anthony of Van Halen, Chad Smith of the Chili Peppers and Joe Satriani), a surprise hit album and a super-dumb name. But devoted rock fans need not worry about that last bit. Smith's a monster drummer, Satriani should wail on the guitar, and Hagar can still hit those crazy, screaming notes. 8 p.m. Nokia Theatre, 1001 Performance Place, Grand Prairie. $39.50 and $49.50. 1-800-745-3000. ticketmaster.com.
Industry Underground at Plush. DJ Tek-neek spins in the Zodiac Lounge for this service industry night. $3 you-call-its until 11 p.m. $5 wells and domestics all night. Doors at 10 p.m. 1400 Main St. No cover. 214-606-1203. plushdallas.com.
Tommy C Productions presents Detour Mondays at Mick's Bar. Each week features a different guest DJ who spins dance and hip-hop. 6 p.m. 2825 Greenville Ave. No cover. 214-827-0039. myspace.com/micksbar.
Schwa, Fugita 5, Hot Flash and Big J supply the music at Cool Out Mondays. Happy hour specials all night. 10 p.m. The Cavern, 1914 Greenville Ave. Free. thecaverndallas.com.
Paul Slavens performs his weekly show in Denton. 10 p.m. Dan's Silverleaf, 103 Industrial St., Denton. Free. 940-320-2000 or danssilverleaf.com.
Sun Club presents Disco Workout, featuring dance music from "the '70s and beyond," at 10 p.m. at Hailey's, 122 Mulberry St., Denton. No cover. haileysclub.com.
Delicious thoughts: Finally, we move away from Bishop Arts eats and branch out. I visited Dixie House on Gaston recently, and since I know the once-independent home-cooking restaurant is now owned by Black-Eyed Pea, I was surprised to find a non-BEP dish on the menu -- fried chicken. Not tenders, mind you -- bone-in chicken. It was worth the extra time it took to cook it fresh, too, and arrived hot and perfectly juicy and crisp. Yes, I was already stuffed on the fantastic yeast rolls and sweet cornbread, but did I finish the chicken anyway? Yup-yup. And the piping-hot broccoli-rice casserole. And the mashpots -- you gotta get them with brown gravy, instead of cream gravy. It's divine. Not something I'd eat very often, but a nice, calorie-blitzy treat.
I've known for months that beloved local celebu-chef Blythe Beck was having a reality show filmed about her kitchen life at Central 214. Still, I was pleasantly shocked to see her in living color on my TV the other day, on the Oxygen network. The ad showed clips of the upcoming debut season, and from the looks of it, food, drinks and drama will be on the menu.
Central 214 is joining in the pre-show excitement, hosting watching parties every Tuesday when The Naughty Kitchen with Chef Blythe Beck airs. To ratchet up the fun factor, the restaurant is offering drink and food specials to enjoy while watching episodes. The fun kicks off next Tuesday at 9 p.m., though it's recommended you get there earlier to snag a seat. Go support our local lady!
WFAA-TV (Channel 8) is reporting that Oprah Winfrey will tape an episode of her talk show at the State Fair of Texas. As part of a multicity tour of the U.S., she'll stop at Fair Park on Monday, Oct. 12. Deets beyond that are few, but we'll keep an eye out for more ...
Spune Productions includes a couple of compelling features in the e-mail newsletter it sent out this morning:
- First, check out a few pictures (one is above) from the recording sessions for Doug Burr's next full-length album, the official follow-up to On Promenade that's coming out next year.
It's Britney, bitch. Again. She's already taken one swing through North America (and Dallas) on her Circus tour, playing sold-out arenas with dancers, theatrics and, finally, some decent hair extensions. She's coming back after stops abroad, and promising some changes to the show this time around, like covering Alanis Morissette's "You Oughta Know." With Jordin Sparks and Kristinia DeBarge. 8 p.m. American Airlines Center, 2500 Victory Ave. $39.50-$495. ticketmaster.com.
Philly quartet Disco Biscuits specializes in "livetronic" music, which is classic jam-band stylings with electronic elements thrown in. It's a fresh sound, especially bouncy tunes such as "Mirrors." With DJ Bonobo. 8 p.m. Palladium Ballroom, 1135 S. Lamar St. $20. ticketmaster.com.
Johnny Lloyd Rollins is inspired by traditional American genres -- pop, rock, blues, soul and country. But his charm and showmanship help make familiar sounds exciting once again. With Daniel Folmer and Homespun Remedies. 10 p.m. City Tavern, 1402 Main St. Cover TBA. 214-745-1402 or citytaverndowntown.com.
Most teenage bands aren't quite ready for prime time, but Fungi Girls, a three-piece from Cleburne has been honing its craft with frequent appearances in Denton and beyond. Its take on garage rock is melodic and definitely satisfying. With the Beets, Air Waves and the Jesus Furs. 8 p.m. J&J's Pizza, 118 W. Oak St., Denton. Cover TBA. 940-382-7769.
Panoptikon at Excuses. Lord Byron and Angry Jon spin new wave and goth until 4 a.m. Starts at 9 p.m. 3025 Main St. No cover. 214-741-1111. excusesdeepellum.com.
Access Dallas presents Naked Fridays at Mick's Bar. No dress code. DJ ATG spins hip-hop, dance and R&B. $3 shot specials. 8 p.m. 2825 Greenville Ave. No cover. 214-527-6241. myspace.com/micksbar.
Friday Night Lights at M Street Bar. Wear your favorite sports team's gear and get in free until 11 p.m. Ladies in free until 10:30 p.m. Music by DJ ATG. 10 p.m. 3520 Greenville Ave. $10. 214-370-5500. accessdallas.com.
The Goldfish Girls spin at Absinthe Lounge from 8:30 to 10 p.m. DJ Roy Murray spins dance and hip-hop after that. $4 you-call-its and $5 martinis until 9 p.m. 1409 S. Lamar St. No cover. 214-941-9338. absinthelounge.net.
See Saturday and Sunday events after the jump, including Living Colour and the Alan Ross Texas Freedom Parade.
... was the kickoff party for Dallas Urban Fashion Week, which runs today through Sunday. At first it didn't feel very urban, what with it being situated at Millennium Jaguar in Plano. But once the models started sashaying down the runway, the urban touches were apparent. The fashion mini-show highlighted bold, sexy designs and body-hugging silhouettes perfect for a night on the town.
But UFW won't just involve apparel, but cosmetics and hairstyles as well. Check out the bevy of upcoming events at the UFW Web site here.
Large-and-in-charge Grapevine pop band Mount Righteous is working on its next full-length album, but it's got a treat to tide fans over. On Sept. 25, we'll get a new EP called Open Your Mouth, featuring five new tracks (none containing an iota of guitar), including this one:
Mount Righteous, "Sing for Me, Tiffany":
(Right-click here and save to download)
Were you captured by our cameras this past weekend at Smoke? Click on the picture to see Quick's Club Cam gallery. And check back next Thursday for a new slideshow.
Charlie Murphy emerged from brother Eddie's shadow for good during his run on Chappelle's Show. His wickedly funny re-enactments of '80s encounters with Rick James and Prince are some of the funniest moments in recent television history. Check him out in person for his stand-up set. 8 p.m. (also various times through Sunday.) Addison Improv, 4980 Belt Line Road, Suite 250. $30. 972-404-8501. improv.com.
Addison Oktoberfest begins tonight, with beer, German food and music, carnival rides, games and wine tastings, among other activities. Let the lip-quivering belches begin. 5 to 11 p.m. (also Friday 5 p.m. to midnight; Saturday noon to midnight; and Sunday noon to 6 p.m.) Addison Circle Park, 4970 Addison Circle Drive. $5. addisontexas.net.
Catch Dove Hunter's slinky, jam-worthy Southern rock at a live show and you'll immediately know why it's considered one of the best acts in Dallas. The guys top an all-local bill at the Granada, and they'd like nothing more than for you to come and hang out. With True Widow, Boom Boom Box and Tre Orsi. 7 p.m. Granada Theater, 3524 Greenville Ave. $8-$12. 214-824-9933. granadatheater.com.
Top Notch Thursday with DJ Sober at the Cavern. $2.50 wells and $1 off all drinks from 7 to 9 p.m. Sober starts at 10 p.m. 1914 Greenville Ave. No cover. 214-828-1914. thecaverndallas.com.
DJ Woody Rosen spins house and neo-soul at Excuses. 9 p.m. 3025 Main St. No cover. 214-741-1111. excusesdeepellum.com.
Tony Rey at Ozona Bar and Grill. $2 well drinks all day. Music begins at 9 p.m. 4615 Greenville Ave. No cover. 214-265-9105. ozonagrill.com.
No Strings Attached at Purgatory. Ladies dressed provocatively get in free until 11 p.m. DJs Billy the Kidd, Hex, Dtrain and ATG spin Top 40 and dance. Doors open at 10 p.m. 2208 Main St. $10. 972-567-3068. accessdallas.com.
Girls Night Out at Plush, hosted by 12 Pack from VH1's Daisy of Love. DJs Robert Pennington and Rob Vaughn spin. 9 p.m. $2 martinis until 11 p.m. 1400 Main St. No cover. 214-606-1203. plushdallas.com.
Royal [Expletive] Party at the Hotel Capri. Complimentary Royal [Expletive] shots and $2 wells until 11 p.m. Complimentary champagne and mimosas for ladies until midnight. Doors at 6 p.m. 2020 Greenville Ave. No cover. 214-370-9944. thehotelcapri.com.
DART's new Green Line is up and running, and that means ... easier access to local happy hours!! Meridian Room, right across the street from the gleaming new Fair Park station, is celebrating with happy hour all day on Mondays and half-price food on Wednesdays. That's worth hopping off the train, wouldn't you say?
I hit a lounge party at the soft opening of Bailey's Prime Plus, a new steakhouse in the Park Lane development. The bar area was swank-casual, dotted with soft red seating and bathed in light from tall windows and funky red chandeliers. A private dining room held numerous appetizers to snack on, with the tasty standouts being decadent crab cakes, supremely fresh shrimp cocktail and hearty Kobe sliders. Yum. I didn't get to sample any of the signature cocktails being whipped up at the handsome bar -- I stuck to the complimentary house red wine, which was delightful -- but living so close to this new outpost of Bailey's, I'll definitely be back to do so.
After the Bailey's bash, I headed to the House of Blues for the Moskova Affair, a fete to celebrate the launch of Stoli's new apple-flavored vodka. The cocktails were flowing freely, but the centerpiece of the show was the Vau de Vire Society, a troupe that performed an exotic blend of ballet, burlesque and circus trickery. Fascinating. Between the evening's complimentary cocktails and the fluttering dancers, my head was abuzz ...
Quick sex columnist Jenny Block will be part of an upcoming episode of ABC's Nightline, along with Pastor Ed Young, Jonathon Daugherty and Noel Biderman. The topic: adultery and the Ten Commandments.
The taping is tomorrow at 6:30 p.m. at Fellowship Church, 2450 N. Highway 121, Grapevine, and is open to the public. For more info, go to fellowshipchurch.com.
Bonus Topic: Texas road trips have lots to offer (I'm lying right now).
Skin: I told you a few weeks back that the fam was loading up for a five-day road trip of various spots in the Southern part of our state. Well, I'm still alive, my man, despite the fact that most people will choose death over long road trips with two kids under the age of 5. Eight consecutive hours in the car with a couple of miniature people who have the attention of Michael Bay's editor definitely make memories that'll last forever. Painful, painful memories. But Texas beaches aren't that bad, despite what you may have heard. Corpus gave me and my 4-year-old the chance to play "jellyfish or prophylactic."
Ben: Sounds like the aquatic version of Fair Park. The question I struggle with in regard to toddler vacations is: Do they really care? I mean, if they won't remember it in 20 minutes and would be as satisfied with five straight days of Dora, Diego and the Fresh Beat Band, then wouldn't that vacation really be about me and the wife? If so, spending five days in a cramped car with my wife, dirty diapers and lots of backseat crying isn't exactly a second honeymoon. It kind of sounds like divorce chum.
Skin: There's no doubt we should have left the 2-year-old at home with the cat. In fact, I was thinking of boarding him till he was 4, anyway. But if we are going to keep him around for the immediate future, then the Fresh Beat Band is out! Nothing sucks worse that that. Not even Gloria Estefan. They have those poor kids dressed up like the UMCs, and though I gave up on the future of rap long ago, they're planting some awful seeds with that dude they got spittin' on that show. It's what I imagine a Tom Cruise freestyle might be like.
Ben: When is that Tom Cruise album dropping? I can't wait. I hope he breaks down Scientology on a track with Travolta. I hear Travolta's flow reminds rich white people of KRS-One, if KRS-One was Keanu Reeves.
Art and Seek has all the pertinent details, but here's the short version: KXT 91.7 will make its debut Nov. 9 with local chunks in the mornings and evenings and some of NPR's music programs during the day. Shows most likely to play local artists will be KXT Texas Mix on Fridays at lunchtime and The Paul Slavens Show Sunday nights. So, I guess we can consider commercial free radio and programmers with impeccable taste an early Christmas present.
The Mars Volta mixes a little bit of everything -- rock, punk, Latin rhythms, psychedelic sounds and more. Hear some of the new release, Octahedron, at myspace.com/themarsvolta. 8 p.m. Palladium Ballroom, 1135 S. Lamar St. $35. ticketmaster.com.
Straight-outta-Malibu rapper Shwayze is joined by Whitestarr singer-guitarist Cisco Adler for a mellow blend of hip-hop and pop. Check the party-pleaser "Corona and Lime" for a good example. With Far East Movement, Cold Flamez, Beardo and DJ Jason Smith. 8 p.m. House of Blues, 2200 N. Lamar St. $18 and $25. ticketmaster.com.
BoomBox features funky, psychedelic fun with high-energy beats from members Russ Randolph and Zion Rock Godchaux. Check out their tunes "Mr. Boogie Man" and "Stereo" at myspace.com/thisisboomboxcom. Plus Spivey. 9 p.m. Granada Theater, 3524 Greenville Ave. $10 and $15. 214-824-9933. granadatheater.com.
Sean Kirkpatrick of Nervous Curtains was smart to get a full band to flesh out his dark, complex piano-pop songs. The band's pairing on the lineup with Wanz Dover's project Blixaboy guarantees that this show will be sufficiently offbeat. With Davic Sunshine. 9 p.m. at the Cavern, 1914 Greenville Ave. $6. 214-828-1914. thecaverndallas.com.
I Heart Wednesday at Plush. 12-Inch Pimp and resident DJ Willie Trimmer spins hip-hop, house and Top 40. 9 p.m. 1400 Main St. No cover. 214-606-1203. plushdallas.com.
Resident DJ Francisco spins electro-house at Hotel Capri. $3 shot specials and $4 wells. Doors open at 6 p.m. 2020 Greenville Ave. No cover. 214-370-9944. thehotelcapri.com.
Hatch green chile is in popping up in so many places, I'm shocked there's not a Hatch-tini or Hatcherita. Joining the trend is Plano's new bar-restaurant Urban Crust, which is serving a pie full of the spicy pepper. In addition to roasted Hatches, the pizza is loaded with sirloin, pepper jack cheese, queso fresco, cilantro and shoestring onion rings. Mmmm.
The dish sounds great, but you knew there had to be a cocktail involved here, right? Whilst the chile pizza is available -- through the month of September -- you can pair it with Urban's $5 drink of the month, the Absolut Crush, a blend of ruby red vodka, orange liqueur and fresh orange juice.
Super Tuesdays at the Hotel Capri. Happy hour from 5:30 to 8 p.m. DJ Tek-neek spins dance and hip-hop mash-ups. Doors at 5 p.m. 2020 Greenville Ave. No cover. 214-370-9944. thehotelcapri.com.
Denton DJ Yeahdef presents his weekly '90s night. 10 p.m. Hailey's, 122 Mulberry St., Denton. $5 for under 21, no cover for over 21. 940-323-1160. haileysclub.com.
Kinuko Y. Craft is a longtime fantasy-art master, and her works have graced the covers of everything from Time magazine to Stephen King novels to children's books. See her detailed paintings up close at this exhibit, which continues through Oct. 31. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 4th Wall Gallery, 2925 Fairmount St. Free. 214-740-9400 or the4thwallgallery.net.
New CDs in stores today:Nelly Furtado's Mi Plan, Muse's The Resistance, Trick Daddy's Finally Famous, Lil Boosie's Superbad, Kid Cudi's Man on the Moon, Megadeth's The Endgame, KRS-One & Buckshot's Survival Skills, Uncle Kracker's Happy Hour. New DVDs: X-Men Origins: Wolverine, Season Four of It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia, Season Five of Grey's Anatomy.
The Moskova Affair at House of Blues. Stoli celebrates the launch of its new apple-and-citrus-flavored vodka, Gala Applik, with a catered reception. Enjoy complimentary Stoli cocktails and a performance by the Vau de Vire Society, a San Francisco troupe that specializes in cabaret-esque circus entertainment. 8 p.m. 2200 N. Lamar St. Free. 214-978-2583.
DJ Légo at Kenichi. Victory Park's upscale Asian eatery welcomes Chicago latin/house spinmaster DJ Lego to its upstairs lounge. Resident DJs Jose G and Disco Dave will also be on hand. Happy hour starts at 10 p.m., with $3 domestics, $4 hot sake and $5 wells. 10 p.m. 2400 Victory Park Lane. $5. 214-871-8883.
Last week at local store Good Records, the remastered Beatles CDs took over the sales chart. The only non-Fab-4 title to slip into the top 10 was Dallas country singer Danny Balis' debut album. We'll get back to you later on whether Danny considers himself a Lennon or a McCartney.
1. The Beatles, Revolver
2. The Beatles, Abbey Road
3. The Beatles, Rubber Soul
4. The Beatles, Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band
5. Danny Balis, Too Much Living
6. The Beatles, The Beatles (the white album)
7. The Beatles, Magical Mystery Tour
8. The Beatles In Mono box set
9. The Beatles, Please Please Me
10. The Beatles, With the Beatles
Having pretty much OD'ed on these Beatles reissues for the last 7 days, I'll reveal that the singles and rarities collection Past Masters is the most played in my vehicle so far. Its selections cover a wide range, from "Love Me Do" to "Hey Jude." And most of the songs are ones I hadn't already played a gajillion times before these remasters changed the world as we know it*. But if you only want to pick up a couple of the remastered albums, go for Abbey Road and Revolver. Good Records shoppers aren't wrong on that one.
I don't know how this blipped on my radar only this week, but buzz is crazy strong for this "mockumentary" horror film. Paranormal Activity is a super-low budget film that wowed -- and scared the bejaysus out of -- veteran horror lovers on the movie festival circuit. It's about a couple that thinks an evil entity is haunting their home. So they decide to set up a camcorder in their bedroom to record any overnight goings-on.
Though this trailer is short, it certainly packs a wallop, in terms of creep factor. And it has the documentary look down perfect -- it should, since it only cost around $11,000 to make. Hmmm, low-budget scarefest that goes from festival circuit to the big screen? What does that remind you of? Some critics are calling Paranormal the scariest movie of the last 10 or 20 years, other say it's the scariest of all time. Whoa, now! Thank goodness the film is only a few weeks away -- we wouldn't want to get overhyped then disappointed upon viewing it, right?
On a related note, I wonder if YouTube headline above the trailer is some kind of purposeful Freudian spelling slip: It reads "Paranormal Activity: Evidence of a Hunting" instead of "haunting" ... or maybe "hunting" is correct ...?
Release date: Sept. 25
Chance of box office success: This one could go viral like Blair Witch
Should you see it?: Yes ... if you're brave enough. You can hold my hand.
Jason Mraz's monster hit "I'm Yours" is officially the longest-charting song in the history of the Billboard Hot 100, having spent 71 weeks on it. That speaks to Mraz's easy, laid-back appeal. Opening act G. Love & Special Sauce has a similar vibe. 7:30 p.m. Nokia Theatre, 1001 Performance Place, Grand Prairie. $35 and $45. ticketmaster.com.
DJ Yeahdef celebrates rapper Nas' birthday with a night full of Nas-related music. Can you tell he's a big fan? Doors at 10 p.m. Hailey's, 122 Mulberry St., Denton. No cover. haileysclub.com.
Industry Underground at Plush. DJ Tek-neek spins in the Zodiac Lounge for this service industry night. $3 you-call-its until 11 p.m. $5 wells and domestics all night. Doors at 10 p.m. 1400 Main St. No cover. 214-606-1203. plushdallas.com.
Tommy C Productions presents Detour Mondays at Mick's Bar. Each week features a different guest DJ who spins dance and hip-hop. 6 p.m. 2825 Greenville Ave. No cover. 214-827-0039. myspace.com/micksbar.
Schwa, Fugita 5, Hot Flash and Big J supply the music at Cool Out Mondays. Happy hour specials all night. 10 p.m. The Cavern, 1914 Greenville Ave. Free. thecaverndallas.com.
Paul Slavens performs his weekly show in Denton. 10 p.m. Dan's Silverleaf, 103 Industrial St., Denton. Free. 940-320-2000 or danssilverleaf.com.
He's a three-time Grammy winner, a seven-time 2009 CMA award nominee and the golden boy of country music, but Brad Paisley is undoubtedly a nice guy first.
At a small gathering before his concert at the Superpages.com Center last night, Brad met with 10 local kids who were picked to be edited into a special version of his "Welcome to the Future" vid, the most recent single from his American Saturday Night release. While you can see the official version of the video here, this localized version was shown on the screen during the concert and featured Dallas landmarks and the kids saying, "When I grow up, I want to be a ______."
A father of two young sons himself, Brad joked with the kids and thanked them for hamming it up for his song that's about children and their dreams for the future. I asked Brad if he has any hopes for what his children want to be when they grow up. An easy answer: "Anything they want to be," he said, adding that he's "not one of those dads."
But he is a big fan of Dallas and the state, he says, and when he swings through, there's one thing he remembers most about the city. Our awesome Tex-Mex? The state fair? Our hot nightclubs? Our friendly nature? Nope. "The reason you know it's Dallas," Brad said, "is cuz you're standing in front of road construction."
Awww... now that hurts.
Cuz it's true.
As for the concert, spirits stayed high in spite of the rain. Well, at least mine did. I had dry seats under the awning of the amphitheater, so it was hard to tell if fans watching from the lawn area were suffering in the deluge or making it a party. With country-music concert-goers, you'd have to guess party.
Jimmy Wayne and Dierks Bentley ("Sideways") banged out energetic, opening sets before Paisley was cheered through many of his big hits: "I'm Gonna Miss Her," "Letter to Me," "Celebrity," "I'm Still a Guy" and "She's Everything." All in all, a great show for sure, and I was also impressed that Brad is so artsy as well. He painted the background for his American Saturday Night album cover (shown partially in the backdrop in the pic above) and was credited with some clever cartoon graphics playing during some of the concert footage.
Must be something to lean back on in case, you know, that whole singing thing doesn't work out...
Delicious thoughts: Wow, there's a whole lot of good eats up and down Davis St. -- last week's dish was from Tejano's restaurant, and now, it's Bolsa that's captured my heart. Again. This dish actually preceded the sausage pizza I wolfed down on my last visit to Bolsa. It's a rich, creamy poblano soup topped with hearty flakes of sharp white cheddar cheese. Once the cheese softened to a stirrable consistency, so did my heart. The soup had a sumptuously velvety mouthfeel, and the sharpness of the cheese went well with the mild spiciness of the pepper. My companion and I wanted to lick our bowls clean. But we kept it classy.
DALLAS (AP) -- This weekend's Dallas-Tampa Bay matchup will feature a little more head-banging than most NFL games.
The heavy metal band Free Reign, which includes three Cowboys offensive linemen, will debut its new song "Rise Up" during Sunday's Fox telecast of the game in Tampa Bay.
The band is made up of Marc Colombo on guitar and vocals, Cory Procter on drums, Leonard Davis on bass and non-football player Justin Chapman on guitar.
The song is described by Riot Entertainment in a news release issued by the Cowboys on Friday as a "soon to be embraced stadium anthem." The band's EP "Tragedy" is expected to be released in November.
Challenge: Design a garment for your model to wear -- and stand out in -- at an important modeling industry soiree.
Celebrity sightings: None.
Drama much?: Epperson got all weepy when he took a break to exchange heartfelt I love yous with his family. When he returned to the work room, the camera zoomed in a solitary tear rolling down his cheek. Got me all teary-eyed!
Fate of the hometown girls: Shirin's and Louise's designs were good enough to move them ahead to next week.
Winning look: Althea (right) wowed the judges' panel with a sassy, sexy three-piece ensemble (above) featuring a cropped jacket, tank top and short skirt. Hawt! It helped that her model walked the hell out of the runway ... fierce!
Who was Auf'd: AT LAST, Qristyl got the boot. We've been subjected to her unclassy, cheap-looking designs for long enough, and her snippy behavior toward teammate Epperson last week made me wanna get rid of her then.
Bo Burnham is all of 19 years old, but he's an Internet sensation with piano-based comedy songs that helped him score his first Comedy Central special last year. You might think it's innocent, gentle humor until his extremely naughty side comes out. Example from "High School Party": "You're gonna love me the way my uncle did/Except you're not gonna go to court for doing it." 8 p.m. Granada Theater, 3524 Greenville Ave. $25 and $30. 214-824-9933 or granadatheater.com.
The Coen Brothers' comedy The Big Lebowski involves mistaken identity, bowling and a dude named ... The Dude. Enjoy Jeff Bridges, John Goodman and the rest of the eclectic cast, and see why the film has become a cult classic since its 1998 release. Midnight. Inwood Theatre, 5458 W. Lovers Lane. $10. 214-764-9106. www.landmarktheatres.com.
Centro-matic frontman Will Johnson gives his fans an annual treat by doing stripped-down solo shows. You get a lot of insight into his songwriting at these gigs, because he's generous with the stories and anecdotes. Not to be missed. 10 p.m. at Dan's Silverleaf, 103 Industrial St., Denton. $8. 940-320-2000. danssilverleaf.com.
Dallas band Exit 380 isn't afraid to try new things. Its last album, The Life and Death of Mr. & Mrs. Alexander Stone, told the story of a 1930s couple. The band is working on the follow-up, which will be half rock and half folk. Needless to say, expect some curveballs. With Early Pearl, Deaf Pedestrians and Chalklign. 8 p.m. Trees, 2709 Elm St. $10. 214-741-1122. treesdallas.com. frontgatetickets.com.
Access Dallas presents Naked Fridays at Mick's Bar. No dress code; come as you are. DJ ATG spins hip-hop, dance and R&B. $3 shot specials all night. 8 p.m. 2825 Greenville Ave. No cover. myspace.com/micksbar.
Bad Brothers Inc. vs. 2R Recordings at Lizard Lounge. Raydar and Shaolin battle Johnny Funk, Mike X and Cooley. Doors at 9 p.m. 2424 Swiss Ave. $10 over 21, $15 for under 21. 214-826-4769. thelizardlounge.com.
See Saturday and Sunday events after the jump, including Brad Paisley, Somebody's Darling and Fall Gallery Walk.
Since the new Aloft hotel is on the way to Central Expressway from my job, I've peeked through the soaring windows recently and seen what appears to be a neon-adorned bar area. Far from being just a counter and some stools, however, it turns out the Re:mix is a full-fledged lounge. A full-fledged, really cool-looking lounge. Check out some photos of it here. You can be sure I'll be checking in to this lounge very soon ...
... on the recent announcement that the Grammy-winning Dallas hip-hop producing/rapping duo will get its own imprint under SRC/Universal Records. Juan and Oscar Salinas, who headlined this year's Quick's Big Thing back in June, will have the opportunity to sign and develop new artists under the new label, dubbed G4 Muzik. Their first signee? Dallas rapper Inertia.
Celebrate with the Salinas boys and other special guests tonight at Joyce Lounge. If you've met these guys, you know it'll be a wild one. Flyer after the jump.
'Sorority Row' is one of those movies that you see when you feel like throwing every bit of your good taste out the window. Which is most days for me. Team Audrina!
Anyway, in anticipation for the sorority-prank-gone-wrong horror-thriller, we asked star Leah Pipes to give us a little celebrity playlist. She came through via e-mail with some downright mature selections, in effect rubbing her good taste in my face. Bitch.
Take it away, Leah!
Pink Floyd's "Jugband Blues" - 1st song off of A Saucerful of Secrets. Not as famous as some of their other songs, but really great nonetheless.
Led Zeppelin's "Bron-Y-Aur Stomp" - Off of Led Zeppelin 3 but if you can find the live version from How the West Was Won, do it. It's awesome!
Parliament's "Express Yourself" - If I'm having a bad day this song never fails to put me in a good mood.
Bob Dylan's "It's Alright Ma" - The song is really long and the music itself is pretty basic, but it has some of the best lyrics I've ever heard.
Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros' "Home" - A friend just burned me a CD with this song and I can't stop listening to it. It makes me want to fall in love.
Since 1993, independent rock magazine Harder Beat has provided coverage of the local and touring music scenes from the fan's perspective. You could find it at record stores, bars and other businesses around town. Its presence in the racks signaled to visitors and newbies that Dallas has a thriving hardcore music scene.
But presence alone apparently couldn't pay the bills or keep fatigue from setting in for founder and editor Linda Hollar, who ended the mag's 16-year run with this month's issue. In her goodbye letter, she recounts her history with the publication and laments how difficult it'd become to keep a print publication afloat.
"It was so much work and so frustrating trying to get ads," Hollar told us over the phone today. "At one time, we had lots of local support. Bands and clubs bought ads. Now, everybody thinks they can get by with a MySpace page. It's happened to every print pub across the country to some degree."
Hollar seemed relieved to no longer have to deal with the pressures of getting Harder Beat to the printer each month, but there was also some heartbreak in her voice when she talked about having to tell contributors and supporters that she was calling it quits.
"When I started this, I didn't do it for the money. I did it mostly for the concert tickets, because seeing rock and writing about it was fun."
That's definitely the way of thinking that came through in Harder Beat's text-heavy pages. Album and concert reviews and news from the hard-rock scene were written by people whose passion for the subject was more important than a paycheck.
Hollar says she won't keep the mag alive online for now, but she's not closing the door to those seriously interested in reviving it.
"This isn't something you can do when you've already got a full-time job weighing you down, so we'll see if anyone serious comes along," she said.
Skin: Dear Ben of Media, I've been on the record as to my disdain for yard work. We pulled our kids out of school to save money as opposed to letting the yard crew go. The problem is that fall is gettin' close. I know, because every time I walk outside I see more leaves on the ground, and I know a month from now they're going to be everywhere. I have a monster tree that drops giant pizza-platter-sized, lily-pad-looking leaves on everyone's yard, and I sure as hell ain't going out there and cleaning it up. Am I violating some sort of neighborhood protocol here?
Ben: You need to chop down that tree and sell firewood, dude. However, be advised that scorpions and spiders love to chill in firewood. Plus, I imagine that frog-rights activists will picket you for putting a lily pad tree out of business. But now that this is out there, protected-scorpion-dwelling protestors will likely picket you if you don't make it happen on their behalf. You're kinda screwed. I say burn your yard and never leave your house. But that's just me.
Skin: That's extremely sound advice. No doubt the reason you're known as the Sage Mayor of the Block in your block circles. But I want to make sure I have this straight. You're telling me that there are spiders and scorpions living in my tree, and once I chop it down I'll be liberating them, thus turning my front yard into an arachnid resort paradise? And if I don't chop it down, it's only a matter of time before the extremely progressive scorpion-advocacy groups do it anyway and claim the move as their bold stroke? Seems like either way, I'll eliminate my leaf problem, which couldn't be all bad. An interesting side note: I once had the Michael Schenker Group living in one of my privets. Aside from a few Germans and the editorial staff at Hit Parader magazine, nobody seemed to care.
Ben: All this talk about spider-scorpions is making me want to protest something. Let me know which way you're leaning on every issue in the world so I can pick an angle to protest. I can't wait to throw eggs at your fur coat and call you a murderer. Or I might protest protesters with better, more expensive signs. What were you saying about your stupid neighbors?
When I saw a Facebook friend post a status update about this American Idol news, I figured it just meant that congenial talk show host Degeneres would serve as a guest judge. But it sounded too bizarre to be true, so I Googled it. Degeneres is joining the cast permanently as Paula's replacement!!
As an Idol fanatic, I'm not sure how I feel about this. Could be savvy on the part of 19 Entertainment (Idol's producer) or pure folly that gets the show ridiculed. I'm leaning toward the former, though. Ellen probably wouldn't really have much in the way of constructive criticism to add in terms of contestants' singing ability, but she could definitely bring the snark. I can't wait to see her reaction during auditions (if they're still going on) when some nut job shows up to make everyone's ears bleed. Can you have imagined Ellen going head-to-head with last season's wack job Norman Gentle?!
Were you captured by our cameras this past weekend at Knox Street Pub? Click on the picture to see Quick's Club Cam gallery. And check back next Thursday for a new slideshow.
The members of garage-rock act The Ettes go by sweet little nicknames. There's lead singer Lindsay "Coco" Hames, Maria "Poni" Silver on drums and Jeremy "Jem" Cohen on bass. The L.A. trio is counting down to its new album, Do You Want Power, which is out Sept. 29. Get an early taste at what should be a straightforward, no-frills rock show. With the Backsliders and the Demigs. 9 p.m. Rubber Gloves, 411 E. Sycamore St., Denton. $8. rubberglovesdentontx.com.
Alt-rock/electronica acts She Wants Revenge and Kill Hannah performs at 8 p.m. at the Granada Theater, 3524 Greenville Ave. $16 and $20. 214-824-9933. granadatheater.com.
Centro-matic frontman Will Johnson gives his fans an annual treat by doing stripped-down solo shows. You get a lot of insight into his songwriting at these gigs, because he's generous with the stories and anecdotes. Not to be missed. With opening act Liz Durrett. 10 p.m. Double Wide, 3510 Commerce St. Cover TBA. 214-887-6510. double-wide.com.
Sweet as Candy at Purgatory. Girls in all pink or all yellow get no cover until 11 p.m. Guys will receive a lollipop at the door, the girl with the most lollipops at the end of the night receives a cash prize. DJs Billy the Kidd, Hex, Dtrain and ATG spin Top 40 and dance. Doors open at 10 p.m. 2208 Main St. $10. 972-567-3068. accessdallas.com.
Girls Night Out at Plush. Groups of eight or more girls receive a complimentary bottle. $2 martinis until 11 p.m. 9 p.m. 1400 Main St. No cover. 214-606-1203. plushdallas.com.
Champagne Thursday at the Hotel Capri. Complimentary champagne and mimosas for the ladies until midnight. Half-price select bottles all evening. $5 you-call-its all night. Doors open at 6 p.m. 2020 Greenville Ave. No cover. 214-370-9944. thehotelcapri.com.
At The Boardroom in Victory Park, hump day isn't Wednesday, it's Wingsday. At the upscale sports bar that means 25-cent wings and $2 tequila drinks from 5 p.m. till closing. Fabulous! But that's not it, folks -- Wednesday's a double whammy here because they also have a traditional happy hour from 5 to 7 p.m., with half off pitchers of beer and 25 percent off signature cocktails. And now that the DART's Green Line will soon be serving Victory Park every day (sted of only on event nights at AAC), you can hop on the train and be chillin' out on The Boardroom patio in no time.
Local music site We Shot Jr. presents Neon Indian, Darktown Strutters, Kashio Boy and Vulgar Fashion at 9 p.m. Rubber Gloves, 411 E. Sycamore St., Denton. $6. rubberglovesdentontx.com.
Bring a blanket and cuddle up by the pool at the Belmont Hotel for a showing of '80s teen fave Sixteen Candles, in honor of the late director John Hughes. Cash bar and food available. Starts at sunset. Belmont Hotel, 901 Fort Worth Ave. Free. 214-393-2300. belmontdallas.com.
I Heart Wednesday at Plush. 12-Inch Pimp and resident DJ Willie Trimmer spins hip-hop, house and Top 40. 9 p.m. 1400 Main St. No cover. 214-606-1203. plushdallas.com.
Beat University at Mick's Bar. DJ Pierre and DJ Yosh spin dance, hip-hop and rock mash-ups. $3 drink specials all night. Doors at 6 p.m. 2825 Greenville Ave. No cover. 214-827-0039. myspace.com/micksbar.
Resident DJ Francisco spins electro-house at Hotel Capri. $3 shot specials and $4 wells. Doors open at 6 p.m. 2020 Greenville Ave. No cover. 214-370-9944. thehotelcapri.com.
Dru Kaba and Sam Sameni present Old-School Hip-HopWednesday at Glo. DJ Kurupt spins. 10 p.m. 2323 N Henderson. No cover. 214-824-2271. glodallas.com.
What you're looking at above is a slice of pizza paradise. Sunday night marked my third visit to Oak Cliff eatery Bolsa, and I ordered the same thing yet again -- Jimmy's sausage flatbread. I've never veered off this course, and you can see why (and maybe you've tasted why). The crumbly Italian sausage gets a little kick from the banana pepper slices as sauce and melty cheese round out the flavor. Mmmm. And the pizza crust? I generally never eat crust, but every shred of this pizza was gone.
Just as delicious was a treat from Bolsa's expanded cocktail menu -- the Oak Cliff Creeper (below). Basically a vodka-spiked fruit punch slushie, it was definitely potent enough to make me want to slow my roll and crawl home. Can't wait for my next Bolsa visit ... and pizza.
Burleson's own Kelly Clarkson, the original American Idol, played a packed house at Winstar on Sunday night. Here's the official review of the show from the Dallas Morning News. But I opened my inbox last night to find an unofficial review -- from Kirtland Records' Tami Thomsen.
Thomsen and Toadies lead singer Vaden Todd Lewis went to the show and ended up meeting Kelly backstage. Why is this notable? Well, for one, Kelly's mentioned Vaden and the Toadies as her favorite band in interviews every year since she competed on Idol. She says she tries to catch every Toadies show she can, that she loves their music because it's "sexy, dirty, drunk, broken. Anything about rock swagger I learned from them."
So this meeting was a long time coming, and an exciting moment for both parties. Here's Thomsen's account of the experience Sunday night:
Vaden and I made the trip to OK last night. Walked into the concert about 10 minutes before the show; just as we sat down "Possum Kingdom" came on, blaring through the PA. What timing! The show was great. Kelly did an amazing, bluesy version of "Walking After Midnight." ... After the show we were taken to her dressing room. She flipped when she saw Vaden. Had a blast talking with her. There are a few photos on my and Vaden's Facebook pages.
We'll look for those photos and see about showing you one. See blurry mobile photo above.
Starting at midnight, America will witness yet another Beatles invasion, with remastered versions of all the band's classic albums hitting stores tomorrow for the first time in two decades, as well as the release of the long-awaited video game The Beatles: Rock Band.
The big bash in Dallas will occur tonight at midnight at Good Records. The Lower Greenville store will host an all-out Beatles celebration, including an early performance from the Dandy Warhols (possibly covering "Blackbird," we're told) and screenings of Magical Mystery Tour and Yellow Submarine. Local Fab Four cover band A Hard Night's Day will count down the minutes to midnight with a late performance.
Good Records manager Chris Penn says there'll be beer flowing and plenty of prizes (especially for the winner of the Beatles: Rock Band tourney). And at the end of all the fun, you'll be able to buy those remastered albums.
Details: 8 p.m. at Good Records, 1808 Greenville Ave. goodrecords.com.
Artsy Oregon rockers Dandy Warhols have a new album, The Dandy Warhols Are Sound, and a theatrical sense of style in concert. Die-hards will get to see them twice -- first at 6 p.m. for an acoustic set at Good Records, then the big show at the Granada. 8 p.m. Granada Theater, 3524 Greenville Ave. $15. 214-824-9933. granadatheater.com.
Metal quartet Mudvayne sometimes aims for shock value with scary, painted-on, dripping-with-fake-blood masks. But the Illinois band also puts out some serious rock music. Black Label Society and Static-X round out the head-banging bill. 6 p.m. Nokia Theatre, 1001 Performance Place, Grand Prairie. $45. 1-800-745-3000. ticketmaster.com.
Section 8 comedy show from 9 to 11 p.m. at Ozona. $1.50 domestic longnecks. 4615 Greenville Ave. $10. 214-265-9105. ozonagrill.com.
Denton DJ Yeahdef presents his weekly '90s night. 10 p.m. Hailey's, 122 Mulberry St., Denton. $5 for under 21, no cover for over 21. 940-323-1160. haileysclub.com.
New CDs in stores today: (Besides all the Beatles remastered albums at midnight ...) Howie Day's Sound the Alarm, Yo La Tengo's Popular Songs, Saosin's In Search of Solid Ground, Raekwon's Only Built 4 Cuban Linx Pt. II, Phish's Joy. New DVDs: Crank 2, Fringe, The Office Season Five, Important Things With Demetri Martin Season One.
Now here's a film that hits close to home for me, and, I'm sure, for many other sistas (and even some brothas). Chris Rock has created a lighthearted documentary on the fixation among some black women on having "good hair." What's good hair? It's long, silky locks that don't come naturally to most black women -- hair that we see in every shampoo commercial and atop most every Hollywood starlet's head. Pretty, flowing tresses are part of the American (heck, global) gold standard of beauty, so who wouldn't want them?
And that's the tricky part. To achieve something approximating silky hair, black women have to have harsh chemical relaxer slathered onto their hair to straighten out their tiny curls -- and that stuff burns! And on top of that, some ladies get weaves braided or sewn into their natural hair -- and that stuff costs! So Rock's movie seems to explore what women do to upkeep their do's, and the comic even travels to India, the source of a lot of the human hair women use as extensions. All in all, it seems like an intriguing journey.
Release date: Oct. 9 (limited release)
Chance of box office success: Good ... on the indie level.
Should you see it?: Yes, for a fascinating and humorous glimpse into a decades-old beauty ritual.
Today is the Free Day of Yoga at nearly any yoga studio, park, fitness facility or wellness center in the area. Class times vary by studio. Various locations, see Web site. Free. freewebs.com/dallasfreedayofyoga.
Tommy C Productions presents Detour Mondays at Mick's Bar. Each week features a different guest DJ who spins dance and hip-hop. 6 p.m. 2825 Greenville Ave. No cover. 214-827-0039. myspace.com/micksbar.
Schwa, Fugita 5, Hot Flash and Big J supply the music at Cool Out Mondays. Happy hour specials all night. 10 p.m. The Cavern, 1914 Greenville Ave. Free. thecaverndallas.com.
Paul Slavens performs his weekly show in Denton. 10 p.m. Dan's Silverleaf, 103 Industrial St., Denton. Free. 940-320-2000 or danssilverleaf.com.
Sun Club presents Disco Workout, featuring dance music from "the '70s and beyond," at 10 p.m. at Hailey's, 122 Mulberry St., Denton. No cover. haileysclub.com.
What better time to unveil a new foodie feature than during the final days of Restaurant Week 2009? I LOVE taking photos of the dishes I eat at local restaurants ... heck restaurants anywhere. I'll be sharing what's on my plate once a week. So let's eat!
What: Sour cream chicken enchiladas
Where: Tejano Mexican Restaurant, 110 W Davis St.
Delicious thoughts: Couldn't you just melt into that plate up there? Or at least lick your monitor? This creamy, spicy dish, accompanied by Mexi-rice and dotted with jalapenos, is hands-down one of my favorite sour cream chicken enchilada dishes in town (it would be my No. 1 had I never eaten at Herrera's). On this occasion, I paired my entree with a puffy taco, a San Antonio specialty that's hard to find in these parts. So delish. Better yet, pair this bad boy with a margarita. Happy tummy guaranteed ...
Challenge: Create a surfwear-inspired garment in teams of two.
Celebrity sightings: California girl Rachel Bilson of The O.C. fame was a guest judge.
Drama much?: A.) Tim Gunn throws the designers a curveball when, midway through their work, he announces they must create a second, avant-garde look. There was much dropping of jaw and gnashing of teeth. B.) Team leader Qristyl butted heads nonstop with her teammate Epperson, and her endless snipping at him made me want to reach into the TV and slap her. Their discord was reflected in their shoddy clothes, landing them in the bottom two. Epperson was spared early, but if someone else hadn't made a bigger misstep (see below) with their garments, Qristyl would've been OUT.
Fate of the hometown girls: Having won last week's challenge, Shirin had immunity, but she sure didn't rest on her laurels. The garment she created with her partner -- was it Althea? -- earned enough consideration for the girls to get a pass. Same for Louise and her teammate.
Winning look: Ra'mon (above right) won, winning kudos for an inspired hand-dyed, neoprene dress and a flouncy avant-garde dress. But, wait -- what about his teammate?! Well ...
Who was Auf'd: ... Mitchell (above left) was sent packing because despite being Ra'mon's team leader, he did practically no work on either garment, leaving Ra'mon to do the lion's share of the labor. Mitchell even admitted to it!! For shame!! Oh, well, Mitchell's weekly whining about always being in the bottom three and his promises to "bring it this time" will no longer have to be endured.
After hours of teasing (Will it be classic country? Smooth jazz? Lithuanian talk, as Junior Miller suggested this morning on The Ticket?), 93.3 is finally out with its new format: "Today's hit music," as they're calling it, which sounds sorta like "Top 40." And the station is calling itself "I-93." Listen online here.
Stanley Kubrick's dark-comedy masterpiece Dr. Strangelove is one of those must-see-if-you-haven't-already films. The nuclear-crisis plot allows Peter Sellers to soar in multiple roles, including the president and the peculiar title character. George C. Scott's blustery pomp is a hoot. And the movie's final moments -- including Slim Pickens riding a warhead, cowboy-style -- rank among the all-time classics. Midnight (also Saturday at midnight). Inwood Theatre, 5458 W. Lovers Lane. $10. 214-764-9106. www.landmarktheaters.com.
The Detroit rap collective D12, a.k.a. Eminem's posse, is back on the road after an extended hiatus. Group member Proof was killed in 2006. Eminem got back in the game earlier this year with Relapse, and D12 is reportedly working on Pipe Dreams, its first album since 2004's chart-topper D12 World. But don't expect an onstage cameo from Eminem himself. Bizarre, Kuniva, Swifty and Co. should be the stars of this show. 8:30 p.m. Lakewood Theater, 1825 Abrams Parkway. $15. 1-800-745-3000. ticketmaster.com.
British rock veterans the Cult first made a splash in the mid-'80s with their hit "She Sells Sanctuary," and after two reunions, they're banging out the hits once again. Catch them while you can -- lead singer Ian Astbury indicated in July the band may no longer record together. 8:30 p.m. House of Blues, 2200 N. Lamar St. $29.50-$65. 1-800-745-3000. ticketmaster.com.
Versatile comic D.L. Hughley has handled politics (CNN's D.L. Hughley Breaks the News), drama (Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip) and very silly humor (Scary Movie 3, Soul Plane). He's at his best onstage, so get to the Improv for his sharp take on current events. 8 and 10:30 p.m. (also various times Saturday and Sunday). Addison Improv, 4980 Belt Line Road, Suite 250. $30. 972-404-8501. improv.com.
Rubber Gloves' week of no-cover shows continues with Sleep Whale, Dust Congress, Fergus & Geronimo, New Science Projects and Emil Rapstine. 9 p.m. Rubber Gloves, 411 E. Sycamore St., Denton. No cover. 940-387-7781. rubberglovesdentontx.com.
The long wait for a new release is almost over for witty Dallas pop group Happy Bullets. Hydropanic at the Natatorium will be released this fall. With Drawn by Jaymz. 8 p.m. Lee Harvey's, 1807 Gould St. No cover. 214-428-1555. leeharveys.com.
It's nothing but fun when Denton band Boxcar Bandits gets together to play loose, beer-soaked bluegrass. With the Dan Family. 10 p.m. at the Moon Bar, 2911 W. Berry St., Fort Worth. $6. 817-926-9600. themoonbar.com.
Becky Middleton, Summer Ames and Camille Cortinas graced the cover of Quick last week, and now they're getting ready to share a bill for the first time. Opening Bell's not a huge place, so get there early to snag a seat. 8:30 p.m. Opening Bell South Side, 1409 S. Lamar St. $6. 214-565-0383. openingbellcoffee.com.
The House Party at M Street Bar. DJ ATG spins hip-hop and Top 40. No cover for ladies before 10:30 p.m. Party starts at 9 p.m. 3520 Greenville Ave. $10. 214-370-5500. mstreetbar.com.
2R Recordings presents Back 2 School Bash at Lizard Lounge. Raydar and Shaolin spin in the main room. Colt Smith and Pweezy spin opening sets. Doors at 9 p.m. 2424 Swiss Ave. No cover before 11 p.m. with school ID. $10 for 21 and up. $15 for under 21. 214-826-4769. thelizardlounge.com.
See Saturday and Sunday events, including This Will Destroy You and Paolo Nutini, after the jump.
In this week's issue, out today, you'll find a feature on Dallas metal newcomers Maleveller (above). It includes a Q&A with lead singer Brian Smith, who tells us that the band will start working on an album in the next few months. In the meantime, though, you can get a taste of the Maleveller sound by downloading three demos over at Parade of Flesh. Good tunes, but not a substitute for seeing the guys live. Do that as soon as you can.
And in the Liner Notes column, I give you a heads-up on the Boys Named Sue CD release events planned for next week.
To mark Idol Records' release of the new album The Hits Vol. Sue!, the Boys will take over the Libertine on Tuesday night for a listening party. Writes singer John Pedigo in an e-mail, "We have purchased a keg for the event. Thus, party to the maximus. Come on down. It'll be great! Like going to the Mac-Donalds!" And if you like what you hear on Tuesday, you'll want to attend the official CD-release show on Sept. 11 (with the King Bucks) at Sons of Hermann.
Here's a song from the new album to tide you over until Tuesday. Stream it hard.
Or perhaps I should call this an update of yesterday's Hump Day Happy Hour. I indeed took advantage of Monica's Wednesday drink special, enjoying 75-cent margaritas with the purchase of my entree. Have to say I've never been thrilled by the fare at the Deep Ellum location, but the fish tacos I had last night -- with perfectly fried fillets topped in chipotle mayonnaise and wrapped in flour tortillas -- was a home run of a dish. And the house queso was outstanding, as well, a cut above many others I've had. But the star of the show, of course, were the cheap margs -- cheap in price only. They were perfect cocktails, all, and I'm glad there was a three-drink limit with the special price -- I could've sipped these all night! Be warned -- the place fills up quickly on cheap marg night, so get there early ...
Were you captured by our cameras this past weekend at Lakewood Bar & Grill? Click on the picture to see Quick's Club Cam gallery. And check back next Thursday for a new slideshow.
Rubber Gloves' week of no-cover shows continues. Country and folk rule tonight's lineup, with Whiskey Folk Ramblers, the Slow Burners, Delmore Pilcrow, Spooky Folk and Daniel Folmer. 9 p.m. Rubber Gloves, 411 E. Sycamore St., Denton. No cover. 940-387-7781. rubberglovesdentontx.com.
The Nasher presents showings of classic American movies on the first Thursday of every month. The best part: It's free. Watch the 1975 Oscar-winning drama One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest, which follows a criminal who cons his way out of jail and into a mental hospital that's run by the infamous Nurse Ratched. 7 p.m. Nasher Sculpture Center, 2001 Flora St. Free. nashersculpturecenter.org.
Beatles cover band Hard Nights Day performs, starting at 6 p.m., at the Barley House. $2 wells all night. 5612 SMU Blvd. No cover. 214-824-0306. barleyhouse.com.
Girls Night Out at Plush. Robert Pennington and Rob Vaughn mix dance, hip-hop and Top 40. Groups of eight or more girls enjoy a complimentary bottle. 10 p.m. 1400 Main St. 214-606-1203. plushdallas.com.
Jeremiah Weed Sweet Tea Vodka Party at the Hotel Capri. Complimentary sweet tea vodka cocktails from 9 to 11 p.m. Complimentary champagne and mimosas for the ladies until midnight. Doors at 6 p.m. 2020 Greenville Ave. No cover. 817-729-1444. thehotelcapri.com.
Happy hour benefiting Challenge Air at Excuses Café. Special themed drinks and complimentary appetizers. Prize giveaways throughout the evening. 6:30 p.m. 3025 Main St. Suggested $10 donation at the door. 214-741-1111.
Skin: So for the first time in a decade I start trying to get in shape, and Time magazine comes out with an article saying working out doesn't help you lose weight because it increases your appetite for muffins and fast-food burritos. I'm kind of paraphrasing something I didn't read, but I find the timing of this article most depressing. Not that I'm a lard butt, but I didn't want to reduce my A-cups and Mini-Cooper spare tire. So I've been busting my tail for six weeks and I still have the exact same body as Napolean Dynamite. What a rip-off.
Ben: I sense a conspiracy. Maybe the fast food companies own Time magazine. If so, this could be our Woodward and Bernstein moment. I call shotgun on Woodward. I don't even know what that means. But I don't read Time, so I'm going to start working out. Next time you see me, you'll think you're walking in on a Bowflex commercial shoot. Sure, I run the risk of missing the boat if fat comes back in style, like all of the experts are predicting, but I don't care. I'm not afraid to blaze my own trail. Coincidentally, Fake News Magazine is reporting that trail-blazing increases a person's likelihood to put a muffin in play.
Skin: The last time I thought I was walking in on a Bowflex commercial, it turned out my wife was having an affair with a washboard. All your trail-blazing reminds me of the 2001-02 Portland Trail Blazers. A lot of folks forgot that Shawn Hemp was on that team. I think that was his name. Seems like he went on to invest in a fertility clinic or something like that. I just remember him being ahead of his time as the first player since Mel Turpin to openly embrace the Time article that hadn't come out yet.
Ben: All this talk about time is making me miss Morris Day. Sure, he and the band performed in FW recently, and a quick interwebnet search reveals that he is appearing in Toyota ads for a dealership in Atlanta, but that's about it right now. Luckily, I picked Prince over Day in my Minnesota-funk fantasy keeper league back in the day. I remember, because you took Jimmy Jam with the No. 1 overall pick. Nice work.
Sometimes you need a really good happy hour deal that goes well past 7 p.m. Luckily, Monica's in Deep Ellum's got your back. Every Wednesday until 10 p.m., the Tex-Mex resto serves 75-cent house margaritas with the purchase of an entree. (For all you lushes out there, they cut you off at three drinks.) This is why Monica's is the site of a girls-only happy hour amongst my friends tonight. Perhaps I'll see you there, too ...
To get a glimpse of Elvis Costello's full music repertoire, check out his excellent show Spectacle on Sundance Channel, in which he talks shop and plays along with artists of all stripes. You'll find him crooning old standards or belting out soul, blues and bluegrass. His latest CD is Secret, Profane & Sugarcane, a country-tinged effort produced by T. Bone Burnett. But keep your fingers crossed for the tracks you crave, such as "Veronica," "Alison," "Everyday I Write the Book" and "Watching the Detectives." 8 p.m. Nokia Theatre, 1001 Performance Place, Grand Prairie. $49.50-$69.50. 1-800-745-3000. ticketmaster.com.
Experimenting with new sounds is what electronic-ambient duo Florene does best, so expect to be challenged a bit in concert. Same goes for the other bands on this bill, during Rubber Gloves' "free week." With Zanzibar Snails, Lychgate and Nervous Curtains. 9 p.m. Rubber Gloves, 411 E. Sycamore St., Denton. No cover. 940-387-7781. rubberglovesdentontx.com.
DJ Francisco spins electro-house and dance at Hotel Capri. $3 shot specials and $4 wells. 6 p.m. 2020 Greenville Ave. No cover. 214-370-9944. thehotelcapri.com.
I don't own any Whitney Houston albums [kicking The Bodyguard soundtrack under desk], but I've always admired her big voice and even bigger white teeth. (See "Exhale -- Shoop Shoop" video.) Who hasn't?
So with the release of her new album I Look to You, Whitney takes to the stage on Good Morning America (6 a.m. Central) tomorrow for her first performance in seven years. (The four-song concert was actually already recorded today in Central Park). Then on Sept. 14, Oprah gets Whitney's first big interview.
Seven years. Has it been that long for one of music's biggest stars to get it together? Hell to the yes. Is she going to seem wiser, take a look back and be like, "Man, I'm over all that crap"? We hope so. Is she going to sweat profusely? Prolly.
At the very least, it'll be interesting to see if her face now even remotely looks like her overly air-brushed album cover...
Good news: A new nightclub and restaurant are joining the downtown scene. Downside: Both will be in the downtown Crowne Plaza Hotel. Still, the news release makes it sound pretty darn fantastic (of course). Will you check it out? Read a snippet from the release after the jump ...
Next Wednesday, America will witness yet another Beatles invasion, with remastered versions of all the band's classic albums hitting stores for the first time in two decades, as well as the release of the long-awaited video game The Beatles: Rock Band. [Begins to hyperventilate.]
But the big bash in Dallas will occur the night before at Good Records. On Tuesday, the Lower Greenville store will host an all-out Beatles celebration, including an early performance from the Dandy Warhols (possibly covering "Blackbird," we're told) and screenings of Magical Mystery Tour and Yellow Submarine. Local Fab Four cover band A Hard Night's Day will count down the minutes to midnight with a late performance.
Good Records manager Chris Penn says there'll be beer flowing and plenty of prizes (especially for the winner of the Beatles: Rock Band tourney). And at the end of all the fun, you'll be able to buy those remastered albums (or the additional mono and stereo box sets being released).
Now that you know what Good's got planned, it'd be pretty silly to wait and grab your Beatles goods at a big-box store.
Potent folk-rock band the Fruit Bats got started in Chicago a decade ago and is still going strong, having just released new album The Ruminant Band earlier this month. Fans headed to the show at the Loft can hit up Good Records a little earlier for a free stripped-down performance.
* 7 p.m. at Good Records, 1808 Greenville Ave. Free. goodrecords.com.
* 8 p.m. at the Loft, 1135 S. Lamar St. $12. theloftdallas.com.
Free Week at Rubber Gloves continues with RTB2, Rival Gang, Violent Squid and Drink to Victory. 9 p.m. 411 E. Sycamore, Denton. Free. rubberglovesdentontx.com.
Super Tuesdays at the Hotel Capri. Happy hour from 5:30 to 8 p.m. DJ Tek-neek spins dance and hip-hop mash-ups. 2020 Greenville Ave. No cover. 214-370-9944. thehotelcapri.com.
Denton DJ Yeahdef presents his weekly '90s night. 10 p.m. Hailey's, 122 Mulberry St., Denton. $5 for under 21, no cover for over 21. 940-323-1160. haileysclub.com.
New CDs in stores today:Whitney Houston's I Look to You, Chevelle's Sci-Fi Crimes, Drive-By Truckers' Fine Print, Beanie Sigel's Broad Street Bully, Pitbull's Rebelution.
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