Newest articles on The Sacramento Press tagged as "shows"

In A Dark Dark House

2011-07-07T09:57:16Z

A condition of being human is the ability for deep, contemplative, private thoughts and emotions. We've developed ways of communication to express the thoughts that are rattling around in these big heads of ours- but these words we've created only work when and how we use them. There is no true way to ever really know what is going on inside someone else's head, no matter how close we are to them.

I find this to be the theme behind Neil LaBute's play, In A Dark Dark House. An intense tale of the relationship between two 30 something year old brothers who are in two very different places in their lives. A tale where one man sets out to chase down the demons that have been haunting his brother, and winds up facing down the shotgun barrel to his own.

Younger brother Drew (played by Ben Moroski) finds himself overwhelmed by his ego and fast lived self-centered life that has poisoned the relationships with his wife and kids. Now in a rehab facility, we open on a scene between Drew and his big brother Terry (played by Dan Masden) who comes to visit and try to aid in recovery.

Both actors are challenged to play with some major societal taboo's. Terry boldly walks down a shakey social line, dealing with situations and emotions that just... aren't appropriate- but are very real to this world. The play ends in a manner that leaves you wondering whats next.

As rose amongst the thorns, Kelly Daniells does a wonderful job playing the delightful and charming high school aged manager in a town’s local putt-putt place and compliments this cast of 3 perfectly.

If you're looking for a merry night out on the town fraught with fits of laughter I can't recommend this play- In A Dark Dark House. In fact a good rule for life would be if ever you see a title to anything with the word "dark" used as an adjective twice to name any place other than "in a dark dark comfy warm nook full of love, rainbows and cuddly unicorns" I would never assume the thing is going to be a chipper experience.

If you're seeking a much rarer and deeper theatrical experience with beautiful moments of honest humor, and characters that will truly affect you and how you feel- this is definitely it.

I would love to congratulate first time director Alysha S. Krumm on her successful directorial debut! And mega props to Jeffrey Lloyd Heatherly for building a super awesome set that supports the story beautifully!

Resurrection Theatre does it again, keeping things fresh with another awesome play completely different from the one before it! For show dates and ticket info check out http://www.resurrectiontheatre.com/ . Add them to your Facebook or twitter (@resurrectweets) and be kept up on all their goings on.

Disclosure: I'm honored for this to be the third show I've been Resurrection Theatre's photographer. I've worked with, or seen most of the production staff and actors from past shows in our community.

TFO Presents- Zombie Walk

2011-07-06T17:19:24Z

Did you know Sacramento's very own Trash Film Orgy (TFO) is credited with being home to the first organized Zombie Walk? http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zombie_walk#History

The summer season is trigger for these midnight movie Trash Film Orgy fans, who descend like a mass migratory bugs filling the hallways and seats of the Crest theatre. Though their year round numbers never fully deplete, once their season starts you see them multiply exponentially for 6 consecutive Saturdays at midnight.

The Zombie Walk is the yearly kickoff event for their TFO summer show season which has been growing ever since! Literally hundreds of "people" (if you can still call them that) converge on the midtown piercing shop Sub-Q at 1715 I street. Though the walk officially starts at 10pm people mostly gather from 9pm on. There will be some limited make up available for the un-undead on sight, but seriously people- who doesn't need their own zombie make up kit? If you don't have one by now is the time to start assembling one!

The organized events take place all evening, but the first of the night is also the first of its kind ever and it starts waaay before the 9pm rally that most people do. 6pm local and talented make up FX artists meet and face off to compete for a professional 2011 season contract with the infamous local haunt- The Callson Manor!!! The finalists will be announced at 9pm, but the winner won't be announced until the TFO stage show at the Crest later in the evening.

At 10pm everyone takes to the streets of Sacramento, weaving hordes of the undead through already large Second Saturday crowds. Literally hundreds of zombies come out every year for this.

The walk is free, and super family friendly- unlike the evening with TFO at the Crest which is strictly 18+.

At 11pm the masses migrate to the Crest Theatre at 1013 K Street where The DEAD Party starts! Doors swing wide for the opening night of the 11th Annual Trash Film Orgy season, featuring the classic film Return of the Living Dead. All Seats $10 – but zombies get $1 off regular admission!! Like all TFO movies, there will be stage shows, game booths, and silliness amuck. So bring 10 friends, and come make some new ones!

Even though this event happens every year, it only happens once a year- so don't miss this.

One-night performance of RENT to benefit the American Cancer Society

2011-06-23T00:05:50Z

I don't care much for RENT. I know I know, everybody loves that show.. I don't. There are many reasons I don't like the show, but I'm not here to hop on my soap box and tell you them. I would instead like to tell you about a truly nice honest theatre experience that I recently had.

The performance was a fundraiser for cancer research and having only one performance didn't require the actors to be completely off book. In the footsteps of reader's theatre, the actor's carried scripts on stage! Though most scripts were used very little. I heard that they had less than 10 rehearsals and for that- they sounded great! Well except for the house speaker being blown and tinny (the fault of the Benvenuti Performance Center- not the production.)

Between the scripts in hand and minimum choreography, I really enjoyed the casual feeling of the show. It didn't feel like they've been rehearsing every week night for 6 weeks, and yet they still had the chemistry and ability to hold their audience. I was completely entralled, even found myself feeling emotional a couple of times. I can't stress enough- I really don't care for the show so it really suprised me how into it I was.

The stark stage had only elevation platforms set up which fit in with the over all feel of the show. Lighting was completely acceptable, with only a few dark spots and rough scene transitions. Costumes- wow, so much plaid in the ensomble! I loved it. I thought everyones clothes looked comfortable and character appropriate.

Let me sum this up, there was very little choreography, the house speakers were ok at best, the set was completely minimal, lights were good but not spectacular, sound mixing was sometimes rough (this was definitely a difficult show to mix- especially with minimal rehearsals) and I personally don't really care for the script... yet having said all of this, I walked out of there feeling like I just experienced something beautiful and rare in our community.

Not only was everyone in the cast was having fun and engaged on stage, but so was the audience! So many names and faces of the industry were there tonight, and all ready to share a beautiful concert and donate to a great cause! I've seldom felt so familiar with such a large show crowd.

I think this the perfect example of lame script, low rehersal time, low tech support, and just having an excellent cast come out and rock it! I would like to thank Asclepius Productions ( http://apshows.org/apshows.org/Welcome.html ) and congratulate the cast and crew on a very enjoyable show, I feel very honored to have seen it.

Lady and the Clarinet

2011-06-22T23:17:43Z

Starring Deni Scofield as Luba, a three time veteran of love lost. Lady and the Clarinet is an evening of self reflection done through comedic banter with a hired clarinet player (Christopher Cook), who is to set the mood for the evening with a new mystery man. It isn't long until he finds himself professionally and politely trapped in the corner of a house with a woman spiraling down the vortexes and rabbit holes of her past loves.

I found all three of the leading men who were played by David Chernyavsky, Mark Ettensohn, Dennis Ray to be charming and lovable in unique and different ways. There were plenty of opportunities for an honest laugh and it was easy to see why each man was cast in his role. The comfort and chemistry shared between all 5 of these performers on stage can be felt by the audience.

A wonderful show directed by Kara Ow. This is a nice peek into this womans psyche as she trips down memory lane, trying to find the love lessons that should be reaped. I loved the interactive instrument on stage and believe it was the perfect soundtrack- way better than a cello (inside joke, go see the show.)

Antigone

2011-05-17T03:41:51Z

Good theatre truly touches the soul, it taps into something deeper inside of us than our everyday hum drum lives have to offer. Antigone accomplishes this beautifully.

A timeless telling of a classic story. The actors are dressed in a time neutral fashion, the set simple, and there are almost no props- leaving our actors nothing to hide behind. Bold and brazen they bare their hearts and their stories for the audience.

This is the story of Antigone, daughter of Odepius, is masterfully narrated by an enchanting Greek Chorus who lays out the events of Antigone as she attempts to secure a respectable burial for her brother Polyneices, even though he is considered a traitor to Thebes. The law forbids both burial and administering any religious rights- upon pain of death. This edict was laid on the land by Antigone's own Uncle Creon, now acting King of Thebes.

So many things are so right about this production. Beautiful lights, set, story, actors and actresses, well directed and crewed. I can absolutely and whole heartedly recommend this production to the more sophisticated theatrical audience in the mood for an impactful and moving theatre experience.

At the California Stage

1723 25th street (25th & R)
Sacramento, CA 95816 Remaining Show Dates:

Friday, May 20 8:00 PM
Saturday, May 21 8:00 PM

Friday, May 27 8:00 PM
Saturday, May 28 8:00 PM

For More Information:

http://koltruncreations.com/

(916) 454-1500

Demi-Mythic Entity Portugal. The Man to Play Harlow's this Thursday

2011-05-04T04:00:21Z

Portugal. The Man, as you can read, has a period placed in the middle of their band’s name. Internet legend has it that co-founder and frontman John Gourley once explained this as, “an attempt to create a demi-mythic entity bigger than the individual members.”

Whether a “demi-mythic entity,” or just four humble dudes in flannel shirts and tight jeans show up, Portugal. The Man will be performing a special all ages show for their fans this Thursday night at Harlow’s.

Portugal. The Man
Show begins at 6:30.
Harlow's
Tickets are $17.50 and can be purchased through Harlow’s web site.

After Italy tour, Secretions host "Suck-Fest"

2011-04-13T22:50:04Z

From a press release issued by the band:

Sacramento stalwart punks The Secretions are celebrating their 20th anniversary as a band by hitting the road for northern Italy on an eight day tour, from April 15 to 22. The tour wraps up with a show featuring CJ Ramone's new band with Daniel Rey on guitar, and Italy’s own legends The Manges.

For the stateside celebration in Sacramento, CA, The Secretions have planned a three-night festival show for Memorial Day Weekend dubbed "Suck-Fes t", a nod to the band’s motto “We Secrete, You Suck.” The Suck-Fest will be held at Citrus Heights bar The Fire Escape, and the Saturday and Sunday shows of the weekend will be all-ages. The Secretions will share the stage with some of Sacramento and the Bay Area’s best local punk acts at the event, with a special rare performance by The Mr. T Experience kicking off the first night.

Since their inception in 1991, the Secretions have put out 5 studio albums, one split CD, and 5 7’’ records. Their most recent CD was 2009’s Greasyhotmeatcheezy.

Comedian Shayla Rivera comes to Sacramento!

2011-02-09T08:31:39Z

Comedian Shayla Rivera will be coming to Sacramento on Feb. 17 for a four-night run of comedy shows at the Punchline Comedy Club.

This is Rivera’s first time performing at Punchline Comedy Club. She said she has performed once in Sacramento years ago, but she is still new to the city.

“It’s fun for a comedian to go to a city for a first time,” Rivera said. “Sacramento is going to be a special treat for me. I plan to stick my head everywhere.”

A self-proclaimed history buff, Rivera said she is excited to see the different buildings and learn more about the history of Sacramento.

Rivera was born and raised in Puerto Rico. She immigrated to the United Sstates after high school and attended Texas A&M University, where she earned a degree in aerospace engineering.

“I had to shut up and listen and learn to speak the language,” Rivera said. “You learn to observe people, and you find a lot of funny things and learn why people behave this way.”

After receiving her bachelor’s degree, Rivera began working at the McDonnell-Douglas Space Systems at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston for eight years. She said she switched to comedy because she wanted to be more involved and interact with people. Working in the technical field, Rivera said she noticed funny behaviors in people that she also uses in her jokes.

“I really find that every group and every single demographic has something to point at and make fun of,” she said. “Everything that I talk about is the truth. There is nothing funnier than that. I exaggerate a little, but it’s the truth.”

People who take themselves too seriously are great targets for jokes, she added. While Rivera makes many jokes related to the Latin community, she also likes to poke fun at the green movement, smart cars and vegetarians.

“This is what the world has come to: We are more about convenience than about common sense,” Rivera said. “If you look at all my jokes, everything points to that, and I poke fun at myself, things that I do that I find everyone else does.”

In addition to holding comedy shows around the country, Rivera travels to places like Iraq, Kuwait and Korea to perform shows for the military.

“A lot of people here in the U.S. have never left the U.S., so they really don’t know what it’s like elsewhere, so you don’t really get to appreciate your home like you should,” she said.

Rivera said she tries to inspire people through her comedy and also by being a motivational speaker.

Many times people believe in what their parents taught them without questioning it, through comedy and motivational speaking, Rivera said, adding that she tries to question those ideals so people can have a better understanding of what they believe in.

She has also helped many students both in high school and college by offering coaching, and she said she keeps in touch with many students even while she is on tour. Rivera has also held conferences for the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers and has received recognition from various communities.

Some of the awards Rivera has received include The Presidents Volunteer Service award in 2007 and Latino Speakers Bureau Award for Excellence in Motivational Speaking in 2010.

“If you can make people laugh at themselves, that’s really great,” Rivera said. “Anyone can change the world by doing what they love.”

The Punchline Comedy Club is located at 2100 Arden Way, and tickets range from $13 to $19 depending on the time of the show.

The shows are 18 and over, and require a two-drink minimum. For more information, click here.

Rock n' roll high school-ers

2011-01-30T19:51:47Z

“Tony Silva rides the bus to see the punk rock bands
   He rides out from BFN and no one understands
  He doesn’t have a car and he’s not old enough to drive
   But seeing punk rock concerts is what keeps Tony alive.”
--“Tony Silva Rides the Bus”, by The Secretions

Despite a bad economy and multiple venue closures this year, punk rock is alive and well among the under-18 crowd.

“There will be times when things get closed down, and it’ll affect the scene negatively, but in the long run, there’s a resilience in Sacramento,” said Craig Usher, who has been going to punk shows since his freshman year of high school.

Usher, now 42 with children, runs a Facebook page cataloguing shows. He said he still prefers all-ages shows to those held in bars, and smaller, sparser shows to massive ones.

“I was drawn to punk rock, in part, because it wasn’t like mass culture rock n’ roll,” he said. “So if I go to a show where I feel like … the focus is on selling stuff rather than expressing yourself, it just doesn’t feel as rewarding to me.”

The tendency of all-ages punk shows to be smaller and more underground also has practical applications.

Alcohol is an essentially a guaranteed moneymaker for 21-and-up shows, but all-ages venues can only sell food and soft drinks. That tends to raise ticket prices, which makes it harder for teen audiences to afford. The smaller the turnout, the less both venue and band earn.

Amber Rose, a booking agent for Citrus Heights bar the Fire Escape, explained that the key to survival is keeping prices low, and planning all-ages shows on nights when school-attending teens can realistically attend.

The Fire Escape also allows patrons to participate in organized moshing, or “circle pits,” which most all-ages venues have forbidden.

“You have to take care of the people that take care of you,” Rose said.

Though the Fire Escape has a full bar, Rose said the underage shows have been profitable. Openings for all-ages shows have been fully booked through April.

“It’s pretty difficult for kids to (play) all-ages (gigs),” Rose said, adding that there are only a handful of dedicated teenage clubs left.

Mickie ‘Rat’ (a psuedonym), bassist for the Sacramento punk band The Secretions, agreed.

“As a legal, profitable business, all-ages venues will always be struggling in Sacramento until they either lower the legal drinking age or the cost of permits for live music venues,” he said in an e-mail interview.

Rat was much more optimistic about private, underground shows, held in improvised venues like garages and basements and funded partially through donations. Although these shows are held in secret, they aren’t hard to find, he said.

“The people who take an active part in the music scene and go to shows always manage to find out where they are,” Rat said. “Bands will always find places to play, whether it’s in a club or someone’s living room.”

The Secretions are a testament to the punk scene’s vitality, as the band recently celebrated its 20th anniversary together. They still practice and hold the occasional private show at Casa de Chaos, a house in Midtown.

“That old house has seen me through a lot of good times and bad times,” Rat said. “It’s a rundown old shack, but I love it.”

The scene is kept alive by people frequently attending shows of all types and paying to get in, he explained.

“Every person who comes to see a show is just as important as the people on stage,” Rat said. “Without an audience, a show is just a lonely rehearsal in a big empty room.”

But the venue, it seems, is secondary to fans, who go primarily for the music and the friendships they make.

“I go to have fun,” said Gavin Mercer, 16-year-old drummer for the fledgling punk band The Carbonites. “It takes out a lot of aggression, too. You can sweat some of your anger out, or your stress or whatever.”

Rose, the Citrus Heights booking agent, would rather have her teenage daughter attend an all-ages punk show, with lots of people around, than a house party.

“These kids go to all these shows, and they all end up becoming friends. It’s kind of like an underground family,” she said.

Nicole Holbein, 17, said she is sentimental about the “family” the punk scene has introduced her to.

“Everyone has the utmost respect and love for what they're doing, and it's such a positive place to be,” she said. “Everyone looks out for each other.”

New Year's Eve In Sacramento

2010-12-28T01:02:00Z

2011 New Year’s Eve Wine Fest
Sacramento’s Masonic Temple, 1123 J St.
9 p.m. - 2 a.m.
$89 per person. No tickets will be sold at the door.
21+

Sacramento Wine and Nightlife Tours invites all wine lovers to ring in the new year with their favorite glass of red, white or bubbly. Held at the Sacramento Masonic Temple, this bash promises to be one of the biggest and most elegant new year’s celebrations in the city. Hosted in two rooms, the Wine Fest will feature a champagne toast, open bar with wine and beer, live music from performers Larry Ellis Jr. and Southwind, saxophonist Ava Lemert and DJ Rock Bottom. Appetizers will also be served, prepared by local chefs Anthony Brenes of Enotria Restaurant and Wine Bar and Nick Gardella of Mother Lode Market in Jackson.

Other party perks provided by the Sacramento Wine and Nightlife Tours include nanny services by licensed professionals ($20 for first child, $10 for each additional), valet parking ($10), end-of-night shuttle services and next-day car retrieval for those living within a 15-minute radius of the Masonic Temple ($20 round trip) and a special promotional price for ticket holders who are from out of town or looking to end with a romantic evening at the Sheraton Hotel ($99 per person).

Sacramento Press readers may use promotional code EscapeSac.com for $10 off ticket price, courtesy of Sacramento Wine and Nightlife Tours.

For more information call (916) 443-8741 or visit sacnewyear.com.

New Year’s Eve Bash with Stacie Eakes and the Superfreakes
The Torch Club, 904 15th St.
Doors open at 8 p.m., show starts at 9 p.m.
$25
21+

After relocating to the east coast a year and a half ago, longtime Torch Club performers Stacie Eakes and the Superfreakes will return to their old stomping grounds to help celebrate the new year with some of Sacramento’s best soul and blues. The party will go until 2 a.m., and includes complimentary party favors and a champagne toast at midnight.

For those who can’t make it out that late or simply want to continue into the day, The Torch Club will also host a free New Year’s Day Hangover party from 2 - 5 p.m. on Saturday. Come and enjoy $4 mimosas, a complimentary Mexican breakfast and the live music of the X-Trio.

For more information call (916) 443-2797 or visit torchclub.net.

New Year’s Eve Cruises on the Hornblower
Empress Hornblower, 1206 Front St., Old Sacramento
Dinner Gala Cruise, 7 - 10 p.m., $168.65
Midnight Cruise, 11 p.m. to 1 a.m., $114.36
All ages

Experience the new year in style aboard the Empress Hornblower yacht, a stately vessel with turn-of-the-century decor, mahogany bars and large dance floors. Partygoers will have two cruise options for the evening: a dinner cruise for the first, featuring a buffet dinner and open bar including champagne and liquor, while the second will provide hors d’ouevres, bottomless champagne, and some of the best seats in in the area to view the Old Sacramento Fireworks show at midnight.

Both cruises will also provide complimentary preboarding photo opportunities, new year’s party favors, and a live DJ for entertainment and dancing.

For more information call (916) 446-1185 or visit hornblower.com.

New Year’s Pajama Party
Sacramento Comedy Spot, 1050 20th St.
9 p.m.
$20 advanced tickets. No tickets will be sold at the door.
21+

Laugh your way into the new year at the Sacramento Comedy Spot’s New Year’s Pajama Party. With a strictly enforced dress code, pajama-clad partiers can enjoy dancing, short comedy shows, party games and, of course, the countdown. Guests will get their money’s worth as there is no end-time to the festivities, and snacks and beverages will be provided.

For more information, call (916) 444-3137 or visit saccomedyspot.com.

New Year’s Eve at Capitol City Garage
Capitol City Garage, 1500 K St.
Special New Year’s Eve Dinner: 4:30 - 9:30 p.m., $49.95 for dinner for two, RSVP only
New Year’s Eve 2011 Celebration Massive, 10 p.m. - 2 a.m., $10, 21+
New Year’s Day 2011 Brunch, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m., prices vary per plate, bottomless mimosas for $6.95

Whether it’s a romantic dinner, a crazy countdown or a rejuvenating brunch, there’s something for everyone at Capitol Garage this new year. Those interested in a relaxing meal are encouraged to reserve a table and enjoy the special dinner for two, which includes two salads, two entrées, dessert and a bottle of the couple’s choice of house wine or champagne.

After the kitchen closes, all guests 21 and over are welcome to ring in the new year at the garage for the New Year’s Eve Celebration Massive, where there will be a full bar, free champagne, live countdown and plenty of live west-coast music including reggae, funk and hip hop. One warning for this great party: Go early. It tends to get packed, and the first 50 guests will receive free promotional gifts and favors. Presale tickets available at United State clothing boutique or online here.

Follow up the crazy night with Capitol Garage’s award-winning food and bottomless mimosas on Saturday.

For more information call (916) 444-3633 or visit capitolgarage.com, or click here.

2011 New Year’s Eve in Old Sacramento
Old Sacramento
6 p.m. - 1 a.m.
Free
All ages

Old Sacramento’s New Year’s festivities will be fun for the whole family. Starting at 6 p.m. there will be lots of live music and two fireworks shows.

There will be performances by the Natomas Night Hawks Drum Corps, Radio Disney Rockin’ Road Crew, Diplomatz Showcase, a youth hip-hop group, Arrival, an award-winning Journey tribute band, Purple Haze, a Jimi Hendrix tribute band, Hip Trash and Friends, a Jazz and Blues band and Obsidian Firefly, a group of fire dancers.

For more information call (916) 808-7777 or visit discovergold.org/nye.

2011 Jerry Perry's New Year's Eve Party at Luigi’s Fun Garden
Luigi’s Fun Garden, 1050 20th St. (20th and J streets)
8 p.m. - 1 a.m.
$5
All ages

Luigi’s Fun Garden only hosts original music. Lite Brite, Pets, Favors, and SIMPL3 JACK will be performing.

For more information visit Luigi’s MySpace Page.

2011 New Year’s Eve at Hilton Hotel, Arden West
Hilton Sacramento Arden West, 2200 Harvard St.
8:30 p.m. - 1 a.m.
$65
21+

Singles of Sacramento, this is possibly the biggest new year’s party in town. Sold out for the past 12 years, the party will be in three ballrooms, featuring Mercy Me, the Groove Thang Band and DJ Ron Davis. The ticket includes two drinks, party favors and free parking. Mix96 will be giving away prizes, including a $1,000 grand prize. There will also be casino gaming for more chances to win. At midnight there will be a big balloon drop.

For tickets and more information visit clubzone.com.

2011 New Year’s at Beatnik Studios
Beatnik Studios, 2421 17th St.
Free art show 6 - 9 p.m.
$15, 9 p.m. - 1:30 a.m.

The evening starts with the opening of Beatnik’s new art show, “Shades and Scripts.” Then at 9 p.m. the new year’s party starts. The theme is ’20s speakeasy. There will be a photo booth with appropriate ’20s props. The bar is provided by Concerts for Charity. There will be champagne at midnight.

Jamar Wallace, Alyssa Cox, and the Happy Medium will perform from 6 - 9 p.m., followed by Goodness Gracious Me, Prieta, The Kelps, and Musical Charis from 9 p.m. - 1:30 a.m.

For more information, visit sacramento365.com.

Sasha Krongos contributed to this article. Photos by Kati Garner.

An Evening with The Brubeck Brothers Quartet at Harlows Friday Oct. 15

2010-10-13T20:13:04Z

Can there be anything better on a mid-October Friday night than some smooth, mellow jazz music conveniently placed in a stylishly intimate club?

If you're underage – probably. But for those applicable, the show will be about
the genius of jazz.

Collaborating with orchestras including The Sacramento Philharmonic, selling out concerts and Jazz festivals across America and Europe, The Brubeck Brothers Quartet, featuring Daniel and Chris Brubeck, will be filling up the evening with plenty of reasons to
ditch out on Netflix and that cheap bottle of wine.

These versatile musicians, accompanied by guitarist Mike Demicco and pianist
Chuck Lamb, have been received nationally for their contagious energy and
creativity with hits like "Intuition" and "Classified."

All About Jazz raves, "There's really nothing out there that comes close to their unique brand of inventiveness.'"

With a full bar and the already-engaging atmosphere of Harlow's Restaurant and Nightclub, the opportunity to get up-close and personal with the band will be memorable as they bring back all the rhythmic force Sacramento's Midtown can handle for one night to Harlow's Friday October 15 at 7:30 pm.

Barnum's 200th birthday party comes to Arco

2010-09-02T00:46:54Z

Audiences will be puzzled and amazed by Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey’s presentation of “Barnum’s FUNundrum!” coming to Arco Arena Sept. 9-12.

The event celebrates the 200th anniversary of the birth of legendary showman P.T. Barnum.

The 130 performers hail from 15 different countries. Acts include body benders, a two-level trapeze arrangement, stilt walkers, high-wire motorcycle balancing, trampoline acrobats and, of course, plenty of clowns.

A menagerie of exotic animals, including 100,000 pounds’ worth of elephants, will be incorporated into the various acts performed throughout the show. Ticket holders are allowed access to to an “Animal Open House” 90 minutes before show time, and can also step onto the arena floor to meet performers one hour before the show begins.

Exotic animal trainer Daniel Raffo is a crowd favorite when he and his 11 tigers share the spotlight.

“We have the opportunity to show people the beauty of these animals and the wonderful character that they have,” Raffo said.

Raffo is a fifth-generation circus performer who has also performed as an acrobat, juggler and high-wire artist in his own family’s circus. He and wife Andrea Ayala-Raffo, who is also a fifth-generation circus performer, are carrying on a performing legacy of their own. With their 5-year-old son on board, the Raffos’ lives seem anything but normal, yet for them this has always been the norm.

“It’s great to be married to someone that’s also in the same business,” Ayala-Raffo said. “When he performs, I watch his back, and when I perform, he does the same for me.”

“It’s great because it’s how my mom and dad grew up,” Ayala-Raffo said.

Ayala-Raffo, along with her two sisters, inherited their hair hanging act from their mother. In addition to being spun and rotated from her hair, Ayala-Raffo also juggles lit torches while being suspended more than 30 feet in the air.

The Raffo family commits 11 months out of the year to the Ringling Bros. circus. “FUNundrum!” will travel to 78 North American cities over the course of the next two years.

“I love what I do because I travel all the time. I learn different languages, different cultures,” Raffo said.

Raffo said the circus provides his son with experiences that most children will never have. “Many people live their whole life at home and just watch TV,” Raffo said.

Having both been raised in performing families, the Raffos said they cannot conceive of living any differently.

“When I’m home I get bored,” Ayala-Raffo said, “I want to travel.”

When all is said and done – the years of training and risking their lives for an act – the Raffo’s payoff comes when audiences awe over the end result: the performance.

“When I perform, it’s like my spirit comes out of my body,” Raffo said. Fear, excitement and disbelief spread across the audience faces. “It’s a joy for me to see people’s reaction to the show.”

Ayala-Raffo said the performers thoroughly enjoy what they do, and that’s what fuels them on.

“There’s always a risk, but that’s the joy of it,” she said, “that’s the ‘wow’ of it.”

Performance schedules for Sacramento can be viewed by clicking here.
Tickets start at $14 (Opening Night tickets available for 50 percent off) and can be purchased at ticketmaster.com, the Arco Arena Box Office or by calling 800-745-3000.

Photos courtesy of Feld Media.

Americana-Rock Phenoms at Naked Coffee

2010-05-11T19:11:56Z

The 6-piece Americana-Rock phenoms, The Whiskey and the Devil Chaplain, are making their Sacramento debut at Naked Coffee on Saturday, May 22nd. The guys make up a fantastic mix of indie roots, folk and straight ahead Americana music. Formed at the latter-end of 2007, the Whiskey is making a name for themselves one show at a time through their knock-down live performances.

Here is just some of the attention they've been getting:

“The fellas that make up this Valley-born folk/bluegrass group played just a handful of songs, but it was enough to make an impression. They opened a February night show at the Cellar Door in Visalia for genre-faves Langhorne Slim and April Smith, and both were wowed by the six-piece experiment called Whiskey and the Devil Chaplain.” - Tom Price, The D Magazine

“Crystal clear tones, alluring lyrics and an aesthetic craft that leaves you wishing there were more than four songs, this is the kind of music you find yourself coming back to listen to over and over. This is not a band obsessed with overproduced songs and overpriced equipment. It’s raw and it’s honest, but still catchy and noteworthy.” – Allysa Laurel, The Campus

“Take in a show, you will not be disappointed!”– Ezekiel Simms--Nashboro Cane Cutters

They will joined by Christopher Fairman and Be Brave Bold Robot.

Show starts at 8:30pm! $5.00

You Know, That 1 Guy

2010-01-21T04:25:46Z

What can you do with a cowboy boot, a hand saw, some metal pipes and string? A whole lot says Mike Silverman, performing as That 1 Guy on Thursday at Beatnik Studios. Don't miss your chance to see this one man band and his invention, The Magic Pipe.

Silverman, who grew up in the Bay Area, was introduced to music by his father's vintage stand-up bass. He says he remembers banging on it until he could reproduce sounds he liked. The instrument and being "in the right place at the right time" to his present career.

That 1 Guy has performed internationally and has large fan bases in places such as Europe and Australia, as well as the United States. He plays annually at the Woodford Folk Festival in Australia. Silverman says its among his favorite events and one at which about 15,000 listen to him play.

His one-man act started as a bet with a Bay Area club owner when Silverman was in college. Silverman performed 400-plus shows in one year with five bands. The bet was that if Silverman did the show alone he could keep the $50 that the band normally split. Silverman almost called the bet off the night before the show and described his time on stage as "one of the most awkward, terrible experiences ever."

By the end of the show, however, everything had changed. As the audience applauded, Silverman's uncomfortable experience was transformed into "one of the most rewarding nights of my life."

"People produce the best stuff when their back's against the wall," Silverman says, adding that he enjoys "never really knowing exactly what you're doing."

His method seems to work. Silverman has won awards at the Edinburgh Music Festival, toured with Buckethead of Guns N' Roses and produced several hit albums.

The Magic Pipe, That 1 Guy's stage centerpiece and Silverman's invention, is a one-of-a-kind instrument consisting of metal piping, two strings, 13 trigger sensors and other electronically connected pieces. He uses this instrument, to produce orchestral, full-bodied songs accompanied by lyrics.

That 1 Guy's new album, "That 1 Guy and the Magic Pipe Packs a Wallop!" which became available Wednesday.

For ticket sales and additional information,contact Beatnik Studios at 916-443-5808 or online at www.beatnik-studios.com.

For additional information, album purchases and tour schedule for That 1 Guy, visit www.thatoneguy.com.

STC Adds 3 More Performances of its hit CINDERELLA!

2009-12-24T01:31:18Z

It wasn't long ago that we were all hankering about in excitement (chaos, really) about bringing back, once again, our notorious production of "Cinderella"... and now here we are, days before Christmas, selling out shows and reaching out more than ever to gain a new audience of eager faces, young and old, to play along with us in the magic that is our beloved spin on the classic fairytale.

Added performances are:

Sunday, December 27th - 7 PM
Tuesday, December 29th - 7 PM
Sunday, January 3rd - 7 PM

Call the box office now for the best seats available. 443-6722. And don't miss this holiday romp at the Sacramento Theatre Company

Featured Above: Brian Rodda, William Elsman, Michael RJ Campbell.

Flight Time Lang and Big Easy Lofton from the “The Amazing Race,” will be reuniting with their team, the Harlem Globetrotters at the ARCO Arena on January 18th for the “Magical Memories” World Tour

2009-12-14T07:47:08Z

At 6’9 and 250 lbs, it is amazing that Big Easy Lofton made it across the zip line. Big Easy Lofton and his friend and teammate Flight Time Lang of the Harlem Globetrotters were recently on the Emmy award-winning CBS television show, “The Amazing Race.” One of their challenges was to cross a zip line suspended over water. In an interview with both Flight Time and Big Easy, Big Easy said the challenge was “exhausting.” He told me that he was told the zip line was tested, but just never tested for someone of his size. Luckily, his strength and athletic ability allowed him to finish. Flight Time and Big Easy finished fourth in the race that premiered the season final on December 6, 2009.

Flight Time and Big Easy didn’t finish first, but they said the experience was nothing you could imagine. I asked the guys how they ended up on the show. Flight Time said that they did the same process as anyone else. He said they sent in a video and flew out to Calif., for a few interviews. The producers really liked them and they made it on the show. When asked what someone going on “The Amazing Race” should bring, Flight Time recommended bringing the little things. He said that the little things like calculators and compasses are helpful for the race.

Both guys being huge fans of reality TV were very excited to be on the show. Flight Time and Big Easy were overwhelmingly the fan favorite and both said they would be interested in doing future reality TV shows. Flight Time even hinted that he would enjoy being on ABC’s, “Dancing with the Stars.”

After watching the charisma and humor of both guys on “The Amazing Race,” it is easy to picture them with their own reality TV show. Not only are they funny guys, but they are great representatives of athletes. In a day and age where some athletes are struggling in the spotlight, Big Easy and Flight Time remind us that athletes can be positive role models.

The race has ended and Flight Time and Big Easy will be reuniting with the Harlem Globetrotters for the “Magical Memories” tour at the ARCO Arena on January 18, 2010. Tickets start at $25.50 and are available online at ticketmaster.com or you can call 1-800-745-3000.
Flight Time is entering his 11th season and Big Easy is entering his 5th as a Harlem Globe Trotter. Both guys are amazing ball handlers and love to please the fans. Flight Time said his favorite part of being a Globetrotter is meeting his fans from all the different cities. Big Easy’s favorite part is when a fan comes up and shares their favorite childhood memory of seeing the Harlem Globetrotters.

I had such a great time interviewing Flight Time and Big Easy and they are such nice guys. I am really excited to watch the “Magical Memories” show at the ARCO Arena on January 18th. If you have any questions about the “Magical Memories” world tour, you can find more information as well as group tickets at the Harlem Globetrotters’ official website: harlemglobetrotters.com

Leon Russell to play Harlow's

2009-11-10T05:29:52Z

What do The Band, Jerry Lee Lewis, The Rolling Stones, Willie Nelson, The Beach Boys, Frank Sinatra and half of the Beatles have in common? Aside from making some of the finest popular music of the 20th century, all of these artists have collaborated with Leon Russell.

The long-haired and bearded organist/singer-songwriter has been working behind the scenes (and occasionally in the spotlight) with an innumerable amount of music’s heavy hitters for half a century.

“I've been lucky to work with so many great musicians,” Russell said via email a few days before his show at Harlow’s on Thursday, Nov. 12.

Russell began his music career as a session musician, working live and in the studio with the previously mentioned acts and many more, but never a permanent member of any one band. His abilities as a versatile performer enabled him to branch out to multiple genres with ease.

When the time was right, Russell was able to make the transition from sideman to full solo artist.

“I was playing on some Joe Cocker records that Denny Cordell was producing,” Russell said. “I had a couple of songs I wanted to submit to him for Joe Cocker, ‘Delta Lady’ and ‘Hello, Little Friend,’ I think was the other one. This was after the session. And when Cordell saw me [perform those] he was kind of flabbergasted because I had been sitting there all quiet and then started doing all this singing and he got interested in me as an artist. And it was because of him I pursued a solo career."

In 1970, Russell released his eponymous debut, driven by the lead single, “A Song for You."

The track has been covered by nearly 50 artists, the most popular rendition being from Herbie Hancock and Christina Aguilera, which was nominated for a Grammy for “Best Pop Collaboration with Vocals” in 2005. Many of his other popular songs have followed a similar path of acclaim, proving his versatility not only as a musician, but composer and songwriter.

“Alan Jackson's recording of 'Bluebird' arranged by Alison Krauss was wonderful,” Russell said when asked which version of his songs was his favorite. “That's the way I should have originally done it."

As for Thursday’s show, Russell has great things planned for his audience.

“We will play some songs by me and some by others,” Russell said. “Mostly ones I like. I have a great band. Jack Wessel (bass) has been with me for 28 years. Chris Simmons is on guitar, Brian Holder on drums and Brian Lee on organ."

With so many years of creativity, one wonders how Russell continues writing new material.

“I am inspired by my family,” Russell said. “My daughter, Sugaree [27 years old], who toured with me as part of my band for over 6 years, is releasing her first record soon (Jan. 5) on Leon Russell Records."

Russell can also count some of the best-known musicians of our time and a legion of fans to be a part of his family as well.

Tickets for Thursday’s show are $35. Doors open at 9 p.m., show starts at 10 p.m. Visit Harlow’s’ ticket page to purchase.

Minus the Bear stays flawless at the Boardwalk

2009-11-02T20:24:48Z

A love letter to Minus the Bear:

Dear criminally underrated Seattle indie rock quintet,

I love everything about you.

For instance, the way you balance complex time signature changes and finely honed musicianship with catchy pop sensibility. It takes a truly skilled collective to make music this intricate seem so natural.

Or the fact that Jake Snider’s bittersweet lyrics about lost innocence and simpler times are relatable not only to high schoolers who are experiencing the subject matter for the first time, but to grown adults twice their age who have been through it numerous times and have the benefit of hindsight. I love that Snider can make potentially corny lyrics like “It’s rare to feel this expensive/But next to a girl like her/It’s impossible not to” sound earnest and heartfelt. He delivers every line with a soft, no-worries croon that sounds as effortless as his band’s transitions.

Other things that make me love you:

Erin Tate walking a thin line between machinelike precision and manic liveliness on his drum kit and always finding room for jazzy fills between the notes.

The very same guitar taps Dave Knudson used to send neck-tatted hardcore kids into a frenzy at Botch shows in the late '90s have been altered ever so slightly to compel star-crossed teens to sway in each other's arms.

Your fans recognize your songs from the first few taps on said signature golden axe. Said fans sing along to every line of every song as if they’ve lived each narrative. They sang even louder than usual at the Boardwalk on Halloween night to alleviate the abuse on Snider’s sore throat.

You played Sacramento even though you had to cancel the night before because of Snider’s lost voice.

You played in costume for the first five songs until the stage lights proved way too hot for your attire. Cory Murchy’s banana costume was the wacky antitheses to his normally reserved demeanor.

Murchy always raises his right hand from his bass in between songs to give the thumbs-up sign to the crowd as if questioning whether the cheering contingent is enjoying the set.

Alex Rose replaced Matt Bayles on keyboards on 2007’s "Planet of Ice" and has since become an indispensable factor in the band’s maturity. His playing on the new single, “Into the Mirror,” fills the gaps between tapping and bleep, blip, bloop electronics to add an organic, analog feel to the track without overpowering the mix.

You don’t ignore any era of your discography and still play the “old stuff” in equal measure, even though it displays a schoolboy innocence and naivete your more recent material eschews for a darker tone.

You saved fan favorite “Pachuca Sunrise” for the encore and jammed on its ending for another few minutes because you knew we weren’t ready to go home yet. You could have used that time warp when daylight-savings time kicked in to play for all eternity, and no one would have complained.

May you rock every venue like you rocked the Boardwalk on Saturday. Everything was flawless, as usual. My love for you rivals that reserved for my future children.

Sincerely,

Greg

'The Man of La Mancha' takes Sacramento on a quest at the Music Circus

2009-08-12T07:49:11Z

It was a solemn scene with chains and bars accompanied only by candlelight. A spotlight and a single pirouette performed flawlessly by one of the male troupe members accompanied by a Spanish song set the mood of the Music Circus sensation The Man of La Mancha.

The setting was that of a prison where Miguel de Cervantes, also known as Don Quixote, played by Walter Charles, told his story of love and never giving up on your dreams as a defense in a mock trial held by the prisoners, to save his beloved manuscript from destruction.

The first act was full of witty puns and adult humor describing Quixote, a wise man who is a little mad, accompanied by his loyal servant Sancho, played by Kevin Ligon, and his quest for the love of Aldonza, a less-than-ladylike “serving wench,”played by Valerie Perri. Quixote then renames Aldonza to Dulcinea as he believes it is more beautiful and fitting for her.

The second act followed with a more serious tone as reality crept through the characters imaginary world. As Quixote’s journey ended, Dulcinea inspired everyone to believe that Quixote’s ideal of living the impossible dream will remain forever.

Cervantes himself was put on trial during the Spanish Inquisition with charges of being an honest man and foreclosing a church. As the lights dimmed, his fellow prisoners who had come to feel close to him, as well as his alter ego Quixote, whom he had created to save himself from those very prisoners, watched as he and his servant were taken away and sang “The Impossible Dream.”

The play was based on the adventures of Quixote and Sancho originally illustrated in 17th century satirical novel, Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra’s, Don Quixote. The novel was later translated into a play and titled The Man of La Mancha.

The live orchestra kept the energy levels high in the theater with skillful playing and creative uses of sound and sound effects that accompanied the wonderful performances of the actors.

The round stage that the Music Circus is famous for was utilized beautifully as the actors constantly moved about in their modest costumes of weathered dresses and torn pants.

The stunning performance was followed by a well deserved standing ovation.

As people left the theater with the look of satisfaction on their faces they simply said, “Amazing.”

The Man of La Mancha will be playing until August 16th, ticket prices starting at $50. For more information please visit the Music Circus website at: www.californiamusicaltheatre.com/index.cfm.

Dancers stepped away from financial disaster

2009-07-13T18:12:39Z

"The 2009-10 season is a dream come true," said dancer Alexandra Cunningham.

A financial crisis in the 2008-09 season has given the 24 dancers a new perspective on their dancing career. Relocating from the 2,398-seat Community Center Theater to the studio with only two rows of seats was perhaps the biggest eye-opener.

For the in-studio shows, only the bare minimum -- chairs, curtains and lights -- separated the dancers from the audience. Both the community and the dancers loved it.

"Performing to sold-out audiences in our studios was exhilarating!" Cunningham said. "I felt that I could share so much more with audience members because I could see their every reaction."

Cunningham praised the entire organization -- staff, dancers, the board of directors -- who all worked to keep the ballet afloat. The community responded with great enthusiasm, she added.

More than 50 businesses became "Ballet Businesses" by donating goods for a silent auction, a space to perform in or donating part of their income. The dancing troupe also created a website, saveoursacballet.org, to give the community a better idea of who the dancers are and inform them about performances.

During Second Saturday Art Walks, they became living sculptures at various art galleries.

When all was said and done, they performed a record number of more than 40 shows, including more than 50 pieces at five different venues.

"It was exciting for us, and therefore translated into our bodies as a new, raw and fearlessness energy," Cunningham added. "I think as dancers we learned a lot from the experience, and overall I feel that we all became stronger because of it."

Administrators of saveoursacballet.org shut down the site, but will reopen it as sacballetdancers.com. The new site will feature information on the dancers' lives, backgrounds and interests.

The Crystal Method lights up Harlow's with electric show

2009-06-18T02:39:00Z

Twisting hundreds of knobs, playing several keyboards, and filtering sound through two Apple laptops, The Crystal Method worked at a frenzied pace entertaining the hyped crowd inside Harlow's on Tuesday night.

The diverse crowd donned sunglasses, earplugs, glowing necklaces and even light emitting shirts as The Crystal Method wowed them, distorting breakbeats to perfection and putting on a dazzling performance.

DJ LA RIOTS opened the show at 8 p.m. to a nearly empty dance floor. As the clock neared 10, the crowd had grown substantially in anticipation for The Crystal Method.

Nearly 150 people on the floor and 50 more in the seats cheered as The Crystal Method crept through ambient fog onto the small stage, making quite an entrance.

On the day of the show, rumors that the venue had changed from Empire Event Center to a smaller Harlow's were confirmed by The Crystal Method's Twitter and promoter, Brian McKenna. Switching venues turned out to be a plus.

"This many people at Empire looks like a disaster, but [at Harlow's] it looks pretty good," McKenna said.

As the band began its set, at least six people took out DSLRs. A unique light show offered opportunities galore for photographers to capture the band in an array of red, blue and yellow light.

The Crystal Method, a duo consisting of Ken Jordan and Scott Kirkland, surrounded themselves with electronic music gear. They played a 90-minute set of their hit songs, each song flowing seamlessly into the next.

Each little piece of equipment, knob and keystroke helped to perfectly recreate the band's signature sound.

Several additional sound technicians added to the band's audio presence, including one who manned a soundboard with 50 faders the whole night. Another played the Australian didgeridoo, a tubelike instrument (see photo above).

Kirkland occasionally used a talk-box, a device which made his voice sound robotic. During one song, the two entered a call-and-response dialogue with their keyboards and knobs.

As the bass thumped, many in the audience waved their hands in the air and twirled their wrists in circles. Illuminated by white, purple and pink lights, the audience lit up but never let up.

"Thanks so much Sactown," Kirkland screamed near the end of the show. "It's good to be back."

"Shout-out to my parents!" added Jordan, who pointed at his parents in the audience.

New Local Web Site has One-Stop Entertainment Shopping

2009-05-30T23:15:55Z

Planning a Fundraiser, Event, or Party...check out the new & locally operated website www.SactoTalent.com. Much more than just an event planning tool, this site also acts as a great location to find and book local talent. All kinds! Clubs, Events, Fundraisers, or Kids Parties; they have something for everyone.

Unlike other talent registries which just list either musical or comedy talent...This site has a larger variety of talent including speakers, celebrity MC's, singers and more. This site is being marketed all over Northern California. To date this new site has already been seen promoted on several cable networks, ads in SN&R, Sac State Hornet, and Sac City College papers, and is going directly after corporate event planners. All this to insure that all the talent have the best opportunity to be seen and booked.

In addition, the owner of the company is also producing shows around town so that the talent can be showcased properly. They have regualr shows at the Dante Club (next is June 11th), at Harlows Nightclub in midtown (shows June 3rd & 17th), and at Vinces Italian Restaurant in Elk Grove (next show is June 25th). So be sure to drop by any of the shows and experience some of Sacramentos best talent. Support your local talent!

If you or your company want a great event, save money and have a great show; use local talent! Remember to book early.

Visit www.SactoTalent.com and comment on what you find! They are always looking for more talent, so if you have some please fill out the online form and join the agency. "This is the beginning of a beautiful friendship"

Local Talent Shines

2009-05-29T17:55:59Z

Sacramento has long been devoid of an opportunity to see and enjoy live shows which feature a variety of local talent. Now we have it!Harlows Nightclub, downtown on J st., now features Variety Shows on alternating Weds. nights. The next is on June 3rd with another following on June 17th. These fun shows include a local band to focus the crowd and raise the energy in the room. Then they present a singer to share a couple songs; followed by one of the areas better comedians. Now the show is really moving, they put on stage another singer or two, another comic and finish with the Band playing off the night with another set of music. It is a full night of unique fun.

What makes this special is that every show is different. Always a new selection of local musical and comic talent. The singers are my favorite because you never know what your going to get. On the last show there was an amazing Opera singer, Kelly Hall, who sileneced the crowd with her amazing voice. Next was an amazing guitarist Fretea Sylver with her original and sobering musc. That was followed by a talented local rap artist Steve Weidel who took the audience back to a energetic frenzy. You add in the comic talents of Mike Osborne and Woody Laughnan and you get Variety like no where else in Sacramento.

Drop by Harlows June 3rd or 17th and see for yourself what great talent we have locally. There is only a $5 cover and the drinks & food from Harlows are tasty. And if you enjoy yourself let the owner of Harlows know, so we can see more talent from our own backyard.

A chat with The Evil Do-Gooders

2008-11-16T00:52:11Z

In my previous article, "Meet The Evil Do-Gooders," my friends and I meet this band at an open mic event at the Fox and Goose (you can read that article by clicking the Storyline tab to the right). The following week, I catch up with The Evil Do-Gooders at an Open Mic event at Luna's Cafe. Turns out that these guys are just as quirky in real life as they are in their songs.

Tell me a little about the Evil Do-Gooders

Ruben: We formed about three months ago at a party. I had written some songs for two months and they were all my first songs. I played a song for a group of people and his [Ryan's] sister was in there, and he was there. He liked my song that was two chords, which is extremely simple. He played, and I just free-styled. And then some girl is like, hey, you guys are so good together. How long have you guys been playing? And I was like, We have not played, ever. And I was like, Hey maybe we should play together. The rest is history, I guess.

Ryan: What's interesting about the night we met is there was a big brawl in front of the street of the party we were at. Gunshots were fired, cops came, and I had to deal with all of them. And basically me and Ruben have never hung out without playing music together.

There's some musical chemistry, then?

Ruben: Its just easy to make music, and you know what? I think anybody, if they could have that, if they knew how easy it was for us to make music together they would want that. We're trying not to be boring, because we just hate all that boring s**t out there. We're done with it.

Ryan: Basically, here's a quote for you. It's a privilege to make music and we're just happy that we get to do it for people. We're lucky that people enjoy it. We're happy to make it everyday, and we're happy to make more.

Tell me about that one song...the cat song, was it? It was a funny song you had.

Ruben: The song is called Bag of Bones, its the first song I wrote. It's only two chords, and it's just written in simplest form...They found [the dog] in the trash. My uncle works for the dump and he found her in a box...He took her to my aunt's house...And so now we've got this dog, Chiquita, with like, missing teeth but she's a very smart dog so she's got to be a lot older. So I just started playing one day, and I started playing literally about what was going on. She was in front of me, and as soon as I start playing my guitar, she ran away. And I was like, Please dog, don't run away from me. And as I'm playing that, my brother laughed, and the song was born.

So do you (Ruben) write all the songs?

Ruben: We write all the songs together, actually.

Don't you guys fight when you're writing songs together?

Ruben: We know what's right.

Ryan: We do argue, it's like any relationship—a duo.

Ruben: It's tough. Being a duo was a lot harder than I thought, because I just got out of a relationship. I'm like, man, this is bulls**t! I have to spend time in this s**t. It's really like a relationship, a basic human relationship. You have to work together and compromise. Which is something that it comes down to. You can't be stubborn.

Ryan: I've played music for about eight years now, so I know a lot about what I'm doing, and Ruben has only been playing for a while. So basically he'll make something, I'll clean it up and we work on it together.

Ryan and Ruben have a show tonight at the Capitol Garage, at 9 p.m. They'll be playing with Purple Girl and the Musical Chairs. The show is only 3 bucks, 21 and over.