Published September 22, 2010 at 7:24 a.m.
Before we get into the weighty topics of the day, I wanted to take a moment to indulge in some utterly shameless self-promotion. I know, you’re shocked, right?
If you haven’t yet picked up a copy of this year’s edition of Seven Days’ award-winning college guide, What’s Good … well, what the hell are you waiting for? Damn thing’s been out for a month. And it’s awesome — at least partly ’cuz I helped write it.
Cheeky ego trip aside, it really is good. I’m proud of it. And I think it’s useful, not only for incoming college students, though that’s the target demographic. I’ve been living in and around Burlington for the better part of 20 years, and I found all sorts of cool stuff in it. Like, for example, did you know Burlington has a crazy good music scene? It’s true. I read all about it.
I’m joking, of course. Burlington’s music scene blows.
Kidding again! I love our music scene and relish any chance to celebrate it. Which is why I’m chewing up precious column space — and personal credibility — to tell you about the launch party for the WG guide this Friday at Nectar’s.
As we’ve done for each of the past two editions, 7D is throwing a big ol’ party at the House That Phish Built that will simultaneously serve as a pat on our own backs, a local music showcase and, most importantly, a benefit for Big Heavy World and the Radiator. (Speaking of which, I’ll be on Jim Lockridge’s “Rocket Shop” Wednesday, September 22, at 8 p.m. to talk up the show. Tune in.)
This year’s showcase is a bit scaled back from previous years. We’re sticking to one floor, and “only” six acts. But man, oh, man, what acts!
The lineup features a mix of veteran bands and rising scene stars, including truck-stop rockers Waylon Speed, In Memory of Pluto offshoot Spirit Animal, indie-folk wonder Maryse Smith, column favorite Zack duPont and his band Stacked, and indie up-and-comers Whales and Wolves. Oh, and just because I figured he could use the work, DJ Disco Phantom will be spinning between sets.
So, I hope you’ll consider dropping by. After all, it’s free. Plus, there’s a very good chance you’ll get to see me make an ass of myself trying to emcee the show. Good times.
Aural Displeasure
In a week top-heavy with marquee talent, the biggest names on the docket are undoubtedly LCD Soundsystem and Sleigh Bells this Monday. In my recent travels around town, several folks have asked if I would be covering the show in any special way. My response: probably not.
Here’s the thing: Under any other circumstances, this show would have led this week’s music section. Generally, if I choose to give something serious ink in these pages, it’s because I think a lot of you will want to see it. I dig LCD, and really love Sleigh Bells. But I’m trying to reconcile the fact that this show will be held in Memorial Auditorium. Much as I appreciate Higher Ground bringing bigger bands through the region, it’s difficult for me to advise listening to music in that acoustic black hole. On the other hand, if you dig LCD and love Sleigh Bells as much as I do, go anyway. Some help I am, right?
BiteTorrent
Listening In
And finally, this week’s totally self-indulgent column segment, in which I share a random sampling of what was on my iPod, turntable, CD player, 8-track player, etc., this week.
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