Rhythm & News (1/14/1998) 

DARE TO BE 'SQUARE' Nothin' like a new venue in town to shake things up. Red Square Bar & Grill, which briefly went by its nondescript address, 136 Church Street, has opened in the front of the former Alfredo's, right across the street from Burlington's City Hall. And despite its modest size, the handsome, cozy all-smoking spot plans to squeeze in some big sounds. This Wednesday, David Abair, Paul Beaudin and Kenny C. provide bachelor-pad lounge music in a session called, provocatively, "Check Behind That Zipper." Hmmm. And joining in the fun, R.S.V.P. — just behind Red Square at the original alley entrance to Alfredo's — will offer Ol' Blue Eyes alongside its gourmet pizza. No, Frank hasn't arisen from his deathbed; this would be Stacy Starkweather and James Harvey paying musical props to the Sinatra ouevre. Oh, and at R.S.V.P., it's B.Y.O.B. (or W.) — and leave those cigarettes in your pocket. Back at Square one on Saturday, Mr. Harvey packs in some jazz, the first of what may become a regular feature, according to owners Jack O'Brien and Mark Gauthier. And put your hands together, people, for the gospel brunch, starting Sunday, January 25, and featuring four of the almightiest singers in the state: Sandra Wright, Tammy Fletcher, Christine Adler and Kip Meaker. Reservations required. Hallelujah.

BRIT LICKS The last time the BBC came our way, it was ... well, gee, who can remember? Anyway, the blokes are back, shooting a documentary on American ice cream and, naturally, Ben & Jerry's gets its share. Turns out, when the network's Simon Dixon was investigating B&J's legendary crusade against Pillsbury, they discovered pianist Don Rose, who used to entertain the legions in line at the original ice cream parlor/gas station at College and St. Paul (they paved paradise...). So, logically enough, I suppose, the BBC is going to film Rose right across the street at Vermont Pub & Brewery next Thursday, January 22. 

BAND NAME OF THE WEEK: Ice Palace