entertaining u newspaper

JACKSONVILLE the simpsons on the big screen red jumpsuit apparatus and yellowcard

free weekly guide to entertainment and more | july 26-august 1, 2007 | www.eujacksonville.com 2 july 26-august 1, 2007 | entertaining u newspaper table of contents movies The Simpsons (movie review) ...... PAGE 6 Movies in Theaters this Week ...... PAGES 6-10 Paprika (movie review) ...... PAGE 7 Crazy Love (movie review) ...... PAGE 7 Rescue Dawn (movie review) ...... PAGE 8 The Lives of Others (movie review) ...... PAGE 9 No Reservations (movie review) ...... PAGE 10 at home Factory Girl (dvd review) ...... PAGE 12 New on DVD ...... PAGE 12 Army Wives (tv review) ...... PAGE 13 Video Games ...... PAGE 13 food Super Chefs ...... PAGE 14 Tastings (restaurant review)...... PAGE 18 Dining Guide ...... PAGE 15 music Music Calendar ...... PAGES 16-20 Roargan (TSI) ...... PAGE 16 Tokyo Rose (interview) ...... PAGE 17 Fab Four (interview) ...... PAGE 18 Grand Buffet (interview) ...... PAGE 19 Van’s Warped Tour (Yellowcard and Red Jumpsuit interviews) ...... PAGE 20 Killswitch Engage (interview) ...... PAGE 21 Bonerama (album review) ...... PAGE 22 RTX (album review) ...... PAGE 22 arts / theatre / on stage Orpheus Theater Group ...... PAGE 23 Closer (theater review) ...... PAGE 24 Arts Calendar ...... PAGES 24-25 Spamalot (FCCJ Artist Series) ...... PAGE 25 columns and stuff BeachWise ...... PAGE 26 The Jock ...... PAGE 26 NASCAR News & Notes ...... PAGE 27

eujacksonville.com | july 26-august 1, 2007 3 TREY MCINTYRE thisweek PROJECT thursday JULY 26 friday JULY 27 Once Upon a Mattress This show is completely produced by a talented group of high The Mooney Suzuki school students. FCCJ, along with the FCCJ Artist Series, present There isn’t much question that the Second Annual Summer Musical Theatre Experience with a The Mooney Suzuki are four of the production of “Once Upon a Mattress,” a witty adaptation of the coolest guys in New York City. Since Princess and the Pea. This charming musical is a delight for the 1996, the black-clad, moppy-haired, entire family and may just give you a glimpse at the future rulers of sunglassed quartet has been wowing Hollywood. The show will run from the 26th to the 29th. the world with their nostalgic, joyfully Tickets: $15 general admission, $12 military and seniors, $8 FCCJ up-tempo, three-chord garage rock. students and all students under 17 The band wears its infl uences on its Nathan H. Wilson Center for the Arts, FCCJ South Campus sleeve -The Sonics, Sam and Dave, Info: (904) 646-2222 The MC5, all just a bit punkifi ed- and that’s fi ne. The point here isn’t THE MAYHAWS “breaking new ground” or “being innovative,” it’s about going as fast as possible, working up a sweat, and bathing in the holy water of good old fashioned rock and roll redemption. Receive your baptism when The Mooney Suzuki takes the stage with Dark Romantics and Leslie. Closer Tickets: $10 The Orpheus Theater Group presents their adults-only performance Jack Rabbits- 8 pm of Closer, a show that follows the sex lives of four people living Info: (904) 353-3309 in contemporary London. The production, which includes strong, sexually explicit language and themes, begins this weekend and will continue until August 11th. Read our review on page 24. The Mayhaws EDDIE MONEY Tickets: $10 Like their namesakes, The Mayhaws are sweet Eddie Money The Body Gallery, Jacksonville Beach- 8 pm The Landing has “Two Tickets to and thorny. Each member brings to the enterprise Info: (904) 296-3292 or myspace.com/orpheustheatergroup Paradise” with your name on them. This a wealth of musical experience, their combined weekend, Eddie Money makes his way talents resulting in a piquant mix of folk, honky- to the River City to celebrate the 20th Master Pancake Theater: The Breakfast Club tonk, soul, bluegrass and old-school country. A Master Pancake Theater is an adult slumber party in a movie theater anniversary of the famed Jacksonville Mayhaws set can run the gamut from traditional hill with a couple hundred people invited over. The unique performance landmark. You’ll be “Shakin’” and music to delta blues to pop songs re-imagined as is kind of like Mystery Science Theater 3000- where they talk over screaming “Take Me Home Tonight” as jug tunes. With their roots in folk and country music movies and do skits- but instead of being on TV it’s performed LIVE the musician performs his memorable and their hearts in the honky-tonk, The Mayhaws do and instead of showing old B-movies from the 50s and 60s, Master hits from the 70s and 80s. “I Think I’m rockabilly Stooges, samba Patsy Cline, and a wealth Pancake shows big-budget movies that you’ve actually seen and in Love” with the fact that this is a free of originals (written by all three core members) that loved (or hated). They’ll take on Pretty Woman and do a One-Man show! saunter, swing, or make folks weep into their shot He-Man Show on Saturday night. Jacksonville Landing- 8 pm Read more about it on page 7. glasses. Tickets: $9 San Marco Theatre- 11:55 pm Info: (904) 353-1188 European Street Café, 1704 San Marco Boulevard Info: (904) 396-4845 or sanmarcotheatre.com - 8:30 pm Info: (904) 398-9500 or hackingcat.com Dread Clampitt Dread Clampitt’s music, dubbed “hipbilly” by Balder Saunders, combines Bluegrass, Blues, Rock & Roll, Louisiana Bayou JULY 28 Ancient Harmony Funk & Swamp music with a heavy reliance on Jazz rhythms. saturday Ancient Harmony is a 4-piece powerhouse from Albany, GA. Tearing The lyrics are clever and often heartfelt as they combine a up the southeast with a muddy river of rock, funk, and jazz-laced mixture of humor with a real outlook at the world and the 4th Annual Frog Frolic psychedelic grooves, their energy and technical prowess is creating Head on over to Adventure Landing, where you can purchase a people and places around them. You’ll want to kick yer shoes white-crested waves. The music latches onto your insides, reaches plastic frog and enter it in a race to get really cool prizes and help a off and dance a spell as this exciting and talented new four-man your spirit, electrifi es your senses, and when the tension releases, it worthy cause. Proceeds for each frog purchased ($5 for one, three group takes to the Freebird stage. The Homesteaders will also overloads the mind and leaves you with blown circuits and a smile for $10) will benefi t Epilepsy Foundation of Northeast Florida. Prizes perform. from ear to ear. Experience it for yourself this weekend. include Adventure Landing prize packages, a trip to western North Tickets: $10 Tickets: $10 Freebird Live- 8 pm Carolina and skateboards from Sunrise Surfshop. Freebird Live- 8 pm Info: (904) 246-BIRD or freebirdlive.com Adventure Landing, Beach Boulevard- 12 pm Info: (904) 246-BIRD or freebirdlive.com Info: (904) 249-9784 or adventurelanding.com

4 july 26-august 1, 2007 | entertaining u newspaper Shin Do Kumaté XIII –Warriors Unleashed Shin Do Kumaté (or “The Way of the Fighting Spirit”) is the fastest growing brand of powerful Muay Thai Kickboxing that features some of the world’s top Warriors displaying respect, discipline and honor. Founded by professional fi ghter Master Mehrdad Moayedi, these bouts are explosive and fast-paced, delivering an intensity and level of skill unmatched in international fi ghting. Tickets: $20-$300 Jacksonville Veteran’s Memorial Arena- 7 pm Info: (904) 630-3900

Trey McIntyre Project- 2007 Rock Ballet tour Experience the magic and excitement of the 2007 Rock Ballet tour! Trey McIntyre presents the world premier of a new ballet by this international dance company known for their creativity and athleticism. Performances will be set to the music of rock legends The Beatles and Beck. Don’t miss an entertaining evening of dance for the whole family! Tickets: $25-$35 Lazzara Performance Hall, UNF- 7:30 pm Info: (904) 620-2878 or unf.edu/fi neartscenter sunday JULY 29 Family Day at Cummer Bring the entire family to enjoy a day at the museum fi lled with art, gardens, education and fun. The activities will be inspired by Tradition in Transition: Russian Icons in the Age of the Romanovs. Enjoy a Russian themed day with music, art making activities, and interactive entertainment Russian-style throughout the galleries and Cummer gardens. This event is free. Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens- 12 pm (904) 355-0630 or cummer.org/entertainment/activities.cfm

Grand Buffet Grand Buffet is a hip-hop duo from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, made up of Jarrod Weeks (a.k.a. Lord Grunge, a.k.a. Matt Kukla, a.k.a. Fred Durts) and Jackson O’Connell-Barlow (a.k.a. Grape-A-Don, a.k.a. Nate Kukla, a.k.a. Mr. Pennsylvania). Grand Buffet has toured all over the globe, sharing the stage with acts like Sage Francis, Wesley Willis, Of Montreal, The Dismemberment Plan, Mates of State, Magnolia Electric Co., Sole and the Pixies. This time, Grand Buffet is headlining with special guests Heavy Flow and MC Koga. Read interview on page 19. Tickets: $10 Jack Rabbits- 8 pm Info: (904) 353-3309

JULY 31 tuesday The Fab Four Precise attention to detail elevates The Fab Four far above every other Beatles tribute. With uncanny, note-perfect live redentions of Beatles’ songs, The Fab Four will make you think you’re watching the real thing. These talented lads replicate that famous Liverpool sound live in the original record key, and they do it all without any tapes, sequences or backing tracks! Read interview on page 18. Tickets: $27.50 Florida Theatre- 8 pm Info: (904) 355-2787 or fl oridatheatre.com

Louis Ramey Louis Ramey is a sharp witted humorist who thrives on performing standup, connecting with people and making them think. Since relocating to New York City, he has performed on the Tonight Show, Last Comic Standing and Late Night with Carson Daily, as well as four performances on Comedy Central, including Comedy Central presents Louis Ramey and Tough Crowd with Colin Quinn. Ramey will be performing in Jacksonville from July 31st to August 4th. Comedy Zone Info: (904) 292-4242 or comedyzone.com wednesday AUGUST 1 2nd Annual Art Walk/Pet Walk Break our your walking shoes and leashes, our monthly Art Walk is going to the dogs! The fi rst Wednesday of each month, Downtown Jacksonville becomes a cultural goldmine as businesses and galleries open their doors and allow visitors to see local, original work. A big highlight this month is that the Florida Theatre is giving dogs their due with a one-of-a-kind event promoting pet health, adoptions and safety. Puppies can munch on complimentary organic dog food as you mingle with other dog/art lovers. Admission is free. Florida Theatre- 5 pm Info: (904) 355-2787 or fl oridatheatre.com

eujacksonville.com | july 26-august 1, 2007 5 all crass. I intend to bring my seven-year old daugh- MOVIES OPENING ter to see the fi lm. The truth is that boys do have penises and since Marge and Homer are married, I KNOW WHO KILLED ME An idyllic small it’s far more morally-centered than Bratz the Movie town is rocked when Audrey Fleming (Lindsey is certain to be and not nearly as risqué as Shrek. Lohan), a bright young woman, is abducted and The Simpsons opens to a scene in the Itchy tortured by a sadistic serial killer. Rated R & Scratchy Movie, carefully parodying itself as this program always does. They even plug Fox program- NO RESERVATIONS This is a remake of Mostly ming in true Simpsons style. The comedy of errors Martha, a 2001 German fi lm written by Sandra that is Homer’s life fi nally gets all of Springfi eld Nettlebeck, whose original script is used for this in trouble when he ditches his silo of pig crap in fi lm. The story involves a chef, Kate (Catherine Springfi eld Lake. That sentence alone lets you know Zeta-Jones), whose sister is killed in a car that The Simpsons Movie is up to the same tricks accident. She inherits her sister’s daughter that Simpsons fans have grown to love. The plot Zoe (Abigail Breslin). Kate has no idea how to never unfolds in predictable terms, and ultimately deal with the precocious 8-year old girl. She free donuts leads to environmental catastrophe in takes her to work and tries to keep her busy. Springfi eld while inept government response leads Meanwhile, the owner of the restaurant hires to the usual march of the townspeople with torches a sous chef, Nick (Aaron Eckhart), who, at homer’s odyssey fi rst, clashes with Kate, but as time goes on a romance develops. Rated PG

PAPRIKA In this anime fi lm, a machine allows The Simpsons bare all on screen therapists to enter patients’ dreams. When it’s stolen, all hell breaks loose, and only a woman BY JON BOSWORTH [email protected] therapist (nicknamed “Paprika”) seems able to B+ Rated PG13 105 Min. Episodes have gotten racier and the issues stop it. Rated R have been dealt with a heavier hand, run- “I can’t believe I paid money for something I ning the risk of turning from icon to trite RESCUE DAWN Based on the true story of can get for free on television,” Homer said in the morality plays through over-explained char- German-born Dieter Dengler, who dreamed of opening scenes of The Simpsons Movie. acters. being a test pilot and thus made his way to I was nervous when I heard there was going The movie does not do this. America, where he joined the military in pursuit to be a Simpsons movie. I’m not sure why, it’s a Sure it’s riskier, Marge and Homer of his obsession to fl y. On his fi rst mission natural fi t. It is the longest running television series almost have a sex scene and Bart really in Vietnam, he is shot down and captured by and has two generations of loyal audiences, but the does show off his “noodle,” but it is deftly Vietcong guerrillas. Starring: Christian Bale, writing has been changing in the last couple of years. handled. It is funny, rather than shocking, and not at to the Simpson home. Steve Zahn, Jeremy Davies, Marshall Bell, and There is defi nitely the usual thinly-veiled but François Chau. Rated PG-13 topical jokes about American culture versus reason, but because the Simpsons writers mock everyone SUNSHINE This is Danny Boyle’s much evenly, it retains the evenhandedness for which the ballyhooed space odyssey set 50 years into show is known. the future. The sun is dying, so a team of The adventure is spectacular, and when the astronauts is sent into space to save the sun fi lm escapes Springfi eld, it escapes the trappings of from degenerating with a specially-developed being just another episode of the television show. but untested cure. Rated R But we’ve seen the Simpsons move away from Springfi eld before. Although the big screen and THE SIMPSONS MOVIE The Simpsons fi nally loud sounds make it feel more cinematic, the thing make it to the big screen. In this adventure, that really distinguishes the eighty-minute feature Homer pollutes Springfi eld Lake and sets into fi lm from the standard show is the acting—voice motion a government plot to destroy their acting, that is. When Marge leaves Homer (again), city. D’oh! He must somehow manage to save Julie Kavner voices a torn Marge’s heart-wrench- Springfi eld and restore his family’s faith in him. ing goodbye. But the real love story in this fi lm is Rated PG-13 between father and son, as Bart contemplates what life would be like as a Flanders. WHO’S YOUR CADDY When a rap mogul from None of this is to say that the fi lm isn’t funny Atlanta tries to join a conservative country club or gets bogged down in morality drivel. Hardcore in the Carolinas, he runs into fi erce opposition Simpsons fans will see every resident of Springfi eld from the board president. However, it’s nothing at least once, get plenty of fodder for their Androids that the rapper and his entourage can’t handle. Dungeonesque conversations and trivia games, and Rated PG-13 the gags are as outrageous as they are clever. In the end, I laughed a few more times than NOW PLAYING I do watching the regular series, but it didn’t meet my expectations. That said, it may well have been 1408 Based on a Stephen King story, this impossible to meet my expectations. An avid Simp- scenario involves a man who writes books sons fan ever since it was an animated sketch on about haunted inns and hotels by going there the Tracey Ulman Show, my expectations were and staying overnight. His overnight visits insurmountable. The movie was hilarious. Go see are uneventful until he insists on staying in a it, but don’t anticipate it too much. That’s what famous haunted room in the Dolphin Hotel in ruined Futurama. I expected too much from it when NYC. His experience is anything but uneventful. Fox originally aired it, but when I watch the reruns Rated PG-13 on Adult Swim, I think it’s a better show than The  Simpsons. The Simpsons Movie is worth seeing whether you watch the show religiously or have just laughed at it when you caught it. It is the show unleashed, but still not taking itself too seriously. It is almost a tribute to the greatness that the Simpsons once was. Bring the whole family. It’ll be like The Muppet Movie for a new generation. Or just go see it alone and have a good, smart laugh.

6 july 26-august 1, 2007 | entertaining u newspaper love and blindness Crazy Love movie review BY JON BOSWORTH [email protected] The challenge of a movie review is al- ways the same. You want to give the reader enough of the plot points to pull them into the story, point out the featured actors, in case that is what draws the reader to a fi lm, and carefully distinguish the type of fi lm it is through its unique qualities. Doing all this without giving away the surprises of the fi lm can sometimes be diffi cult, but in the case of Crazy Love, the documentary about a love story that started in the 50s, this task is very complicated. There are no stars in this fi lm. It is a traditional documentary that starts off tell- ing the story of Burt and Linda Pugach. “She was the most beautiful girl I have the surreal world ever seen,” the aged Burt Pugach tells the America, so she was tough as nails. But she was camera as he describes their fi rst meeting. also gorgeous, so boys always noticed her. Burt But what starts off as a middle-century story was no exception. He noticed her as he was driv- Paprika of courtship and romance turns into a tale you can ing through town and he tenaciously approached hardly believe to be a true story. But it is the type her. Thus began his pursuit of the beautiful Linda. of true story that found its way to the front pages Before long, the band in his nightclub was striking BY ERIN THURSBY [email protected] of newspapers several times over the torrid twenty up ‘Linda’ every time the couple walked in. But B- 90 min Rated R Tokita’s scientifi c talent. plus years of their love/hate affair. Of course, the this was only the bright shiny start of their affair, The world of dreams in Paprika is simultane- The rescued Shima calls in his old-school limelight of media attention is an understated (if not because a dark cloud soon loomed over their ro- ously frightening and fantastic. I cannot imagine a friend, Police Detective Konakawa, to the lab to meet altogether ignored by the documentary) aspect of mance. This love story quickly twists into an insane better genre than anime for this tale, based on Yas- with Atsuko and Himuro’s boss, Dr. Tokita. Mean- this couple and what draws them to each other, and and turbulent downward spiral as Burt’s practice utaka Tsutsui’s 1993 novel of the same name. While while, “the Chairman” of the corporation, believes then to cameras and interviews. comes under scrutiny, Linda learns the whole truth it might not be the best piece of anime out there, it’s that the devices never should have been invented. The way this story unfolds is brilliant. Direc- about Burt, and Burt’s affection turns into obses- at the very least a visually stunning piece of work. Shima needs to get the DC Mini out of the wrong tors Dan Klores and Fisher Stevens deftly tell the sion. Dialogue can seem a little stunted, and it can be hard hands so that the government will approve its use. story from the separate perspectives of Burt and He takes Linda to the doctor to prove that she to make sense of a movie that slips in and out of the However, as Paprika discovers, whoever has the DC Linda, incorporating the testimonies of their friends is still a virgin, she proves that his divorce papers dream world. Mini can use it to obliterate a dreamer’s personality to provide perspective. Burt was rich, but he was were fake, and then when a normal relationship I may be picking up the surreal soundtrack to while they are asleep, leaving nothing but an empty a dog. Linda was beautiful, but she wasn’t a very would crumble and the parties would move on, Paprika, which was composed and woven by Su- shell. good mistress. How these two found each other is Burt refused to move on. suma Hirasawa, one of Japan’s most cutting-edge Detective Konakawa is also at risk for being a beautiful story, what split them up is a terrifying What follows is the story of a match made in electronic musicians. He elaborately intertwines hacked because he underwent treatment in the past tragedy, and how a documentary can have the twist hell and perhaps a window into how bloodthirsty electronic music, voice and many other instruments for recurring nightmares. He immediately suspects ending that this one has just proves how brilliant and narcissistic love can be. to create an orchestra for a dream. that Atsuko is Paprika upon meeting her. While in the Klores and Stevens are as fi lmmakers. That’s all I Crazy Love had its world premiere at the Paprika is the alter-ego of Dr. Atsuko Chiba, an dream world, Konakawa has his own issues to work can tell you without revealing too much. 2007 Sundance Film Festival and earned the Best attractive but straight-laced research psychothera- out and old karmic debts to repay. Konakawa helps Burt Pugach was a lawyer in New York in Documentary award at the 2007 Santa Barbara Film pist. Dr. Chiba specializes in dream therapy and uses Paprika when all the dreams begin to merge into the 1950s. He was rich. He ran with a Hollywood Festival. Friends of the Festival brings it to the San a high-tech device called the DC Mini, which allows a meta-dream that seems to be slowly absorbing crowd, owned his own nightclub, and even had Marco Theatre on July 30th at 7:30 pm. Don’t miss her to enter the dreams of others. The fun-loving everything. Eventually, the line between reality and a private jet. Linda Riss was a Bronx girl from a this fi lm. Bring a date, preferably an ex-girlfriend and fearless Paprika is a master of the whimsical dreaming is so blurred that it’s diffi cult to separate broken home, an unusual thing in middle-century that thinks you’re obsessed. She’ll see. dream world, shifting from a tiny fairy to a mermaid, them. depending on the circumstance of the dream. Konakawa’s dreams have a very cinematic The DC Mini, invented by Atsuko’s brilliant framework, relying on various genres of fi lm such master pancake theater at san marco theatre but irresponsible collaborator, Dr. Tokita, is awaiting as detective fl icks and old Tarzan movies. His dream offi cial approval as a psychotherapy treatment by the experiences open the movie and set the audience Although few people old enough to remember it have the retention to directly recall it, Nickelodeon once had government when one of the four prototypes is sto- up for a surreal dream-within-a-dream experience, a program called Mad Movies wherein some disembodied voices would mock old fi lms for an hour. Their len from the Foundation for Psychiatric Research. Dr. especially when Konakawa’s dreams are projected jokes were infantile, but the concept was pure gold. Not long after, Comedy Central introduced Mystery Tokita’s research assistant Himuro is also missing, on a movie screen while Paprika watches and eats Science Theater 3000. The premise of this show was that one man and two sarcastic robots were trapped making him the chief suspect in the theft. popcorn. Audience members are, of course, watch- One by one, the researchers begin to have ter- ing a movie of Paprika watching the movie dream. on some distant planet and forced to watch the worst movies of all time. Their sarcastic remarks made rifying waking dreams, featuring a spooky giant doll, It’s gimmicky, yes, but it will have you questioning their way into schoolrooms and by watercoolers around the country. Those programs are gone, but Master which further indicates Himuro is responsible, since your own reality. Pancake Theater is a live comedy troupe that brings a similar experience to the Alamo Drafthouse in Austin, it comes from the dreams of one of his disturbed When one of the characters behind the “dream Texas regularly. Fortunately for us, they are bringing that experience to the San Marco Theatre this weekend patients. Everyone who has had exposure to the hijacking” has Paprika captured, literally pinned to for only $9 per showing. For another $8 you can enjoy one of the comedians tour de force: The One-Man machine is vulnerable to having his or her dreams a display case like a butterfl y, he violates her in a “hacked,” so to speak. way that is so personal and horrifi c, that you feel like He-Man Show. Get all three shows for only $15. Torataro Shima, the Chief of the lab, is affected you’re witnessing a grotesque rape. by a strange waking dream and tries to commit sui- Not all aspects of this movie make sense, and Friday, July 27th @ 11:55 pm – The Breakfast Club cide, leading Atsuko to use her alter-ego (the heroic some of it is designed to make you feel uncom- Saturday, July 28th @ 9:30pm – Pretty Woman Paprika) to try to rescue him. Atsuko is affected as fortable. Most of it, though, is eye-popping and Saturday, July 28th @ 11:55 pm – John Erler (of Master Pancake Theater) provides a one-man, live, well, nearly falling off a building, but she is rescued fantastic. It fl oats around your head afterwards, like alternate voice-over for the 80s animated movie He-Man and the Secret of the Sword. John Erler will single- by a handsome fellow researcher, Dr. Osanai. He a dream that you know you should learn something handedly be re-voicing and re-writing the original script. Go to sanmarcotheatre.com for more details. seems to be attracted to her and slightly jealous of from but haven’t quite got the balls to examine.

eujacksonville.com | july 26-august 1, 2007 7 is a German-born American fi ghter pilot on a secret bombing mission into Laos during the Vietnam War. EVAN ALMIGHTY This sequel to Bruce Almighty Herzog’s premise delves deeply into the psychology stars Steve Carell who plays Evan Baxter, a of human survival and what allows some people to congressman that is visited by God (Morgan survive extreme conditions while others succumb to Freeman) and told to build an ark in preparation the effects of deprivation. for a great fl ood. Comedic situations ensue when Specifi cally, Herzog takes the viewer on Baxter ignores God’s wishes and he fi nds out God Dengler’s journey down his river of darkness, into means business. Rated PG starvation and torture, as he rises above his pain and suffering to seek a solution to his problem by FANTASATIC 4: RISE OF THE SILVER SURFER adopting a positive attitude and never giving up. His The four superheroes fi nd out there’s a new remarkable story is a victory of the human spirit sheriff in the universe–the powerful Silver Surfer against all odds. He refused to allow his soul to be with his planet-destroying Galactus. Yes, Jessica crushed by his captors’ cruelty. Alba plays Sue Storm–enough said. Rated PG On Dengler’s fi rst combat mission, he is shot down in the thick jungle of Laos. Miraculously unhurt HAIRSPRAY A plump but vivacious teenager after the crash, Dengler runs for cover as a rag-tag joins a popular teen-scene TV show in the early band of Laotian militia troops close in on his posi- 60s and teaches the show about integration by tion. He avoids capture for two days, but is fi nally bringing back “negro day.” He-Mom, Edna (John caught and immediately tortured. He is forced to go Travolta), who takes in laundry to suplement her to a primitive POW camp that makes the infamous husband’s meager income from a joke store, joins Hanoi Hilton look like a fi ve star hotel by comparison. her daughter in the movement to restore “negro There he meets the grossly malnourished prisoners, day.” Rated PG who are in advanced stages of starvation. Dengler having heart in darkness sees that, unless he escapes, he could rot in this HARRY POTTER AND THE ORDER OF THE jungle hell hole. The other prisoners have lost hope PHOENIX Rumors of Lord Voldmort’s return and are delusional from the effects of malnutrition. have been dismissed. Harry and Dumbledore Dengler takes charge as the group’s leader and are targeted by the Wizard Authorities. And, an Rescue Dawn movie review inspirational guide, but it’s an uphill struggle. The authoritarian bureaucrat gradually seizes power other prisoners are terribly weak and sick. They’ve at Hogwarts. It’s jungle of wizards out there with lost hope. Dengler must get them out of that mind- special effects galore. Rated PG-13 BY RICK GRANT [email protected] set to plan an escape. Dengler’s positive attitude, A- Rated PG-13 126 min Herzog again blurs the line between documentary combined with his personable treatment of the other I and fi ction with a dark, character-driven scenario prisoners, gradually wins some new recruits. Duane In this Vietnam-era POW fi lm, fi lmmaker Werner about a real veteran. Dieter Dengler (Christian Bale) (Steve Zahn) is another fl yer who was shot down two years before, and they become friends. Gene (Jeremy Davies) has degraded deeply into a mental illness caused by lack of nutrients. He’s scared to make a break for it, so Dengler has to play him with a delicate touch. At night, the prisoners are handcuffed and put into leg restraints. However, Dengler was a tool-mak- er in Germany and knows how to break out of the cuffs. Each night, they break free of their restraints and plan their escape. Dengler noticed that the guards leave their rifl es at their huts to go to evening chow, so he plans a coordinated attack to seize their NOW PRONOUNCE YOU CHUCK AND LARRY weapons and take the guards hostage. Getting Gene Two single Brooklyn fi refi ghters, Chuck (Adam to cooperate is Dengler’s biggest worry. Gene is Sandler) and Larry (Kevin James) are best bonkers and afraid to attack the guards. Nonethe- friends. Larry saves Chuck’s life and he is willing less, Dengler has no choice but to include him in the to do anything to even the score. When Larry plan. needs Chuck to sign a Civil Union form so he Getting out of the prison is one thing, but the can get benefi ts for his kids, the scheme seems challenge exists in the jungle, many miles from civi- easy. But an investigator thinks there is something lization. Finding water and food will be the escapees’ fi shy about the pair. So they have to masquerade biggest problem. But Dengler would rather die in as a gay couple to satisfy the investigator, which the jungle than waste away in the camp. The time means they have to go through a ceremony, have comes for the escape and it goes smoothly until he a honeymoon, and live together. Rated PG-13 and Duane arrive at the kitchen hut where the others were supposed to meet him. They do not show up, KNOCKED UP The consequences of having so Dengler is forced to improvise, which was not his unprotected sex is explored in this comedy. plan. Slacker Ben Stone (Seth Rogen) meets a Thus begins their ordeal of survival, as the vast vivacious woman, Alison Scott (Katherine Heigl), jungle takes its toll on the two starving men. Dengler in a bar. They get drunk and go back to his place and Duane meet many obstacles to their survival as to have sex. Oops, she gets pregnant. Ben has to they try to navigate back to a populated area. The grow up rapidly to deal with this life-altering event. ordeal of the two men’s survival is the guts of Her- For the fi rst time in his life, Ben has to accept zog’s story. The jungle’s incessant triple-digit heat responsibility. And, he’s not ready. Rated R index and thick vegetation is hell to move through and food is hard to come by without shooting game, LICENSE TO WED Robin Williams plays a which would give away their position. During this marriage counselor and reverend who puts Sadie exciting segment, Herzog relies on Bale and Zahn (Mandy Moore) and Ben (John Krasinski) through to skillfully act-out the rapid deterioration of each a series of relationship challenges. Reverend man’s physical and mental health, as they face the Frank’s boot camp includes twin baby robots that impossible odds of getting out of the jungle alive. test the couple’s resolve to stay married. Rated It’s this struggle that serves as a metaphor for life’s PG-13 caprices that we all face as we navigate through our physical world journey. The Laotian jungle serves as  an accelerator of that struggle for these two men.

8 july 26-august 1, 2007 | entertaining u newspaper LIVE FREE OR DIE HARD Yes, Bruce Willis is back as John McClane, who stumbles onto a plot by Internet-based terrorists to cause havoc in America by crippling the government’s computer systems. McClane, an old-school kind of guy, works with a top hacker to foil the terrorists plan, but gets himself in big trouble again in this 4th episode of Die Hard. Rated PG-13

OCEANS 13 George Clooney and Steven Soderbergh in Section 8 Productions produce another Ocean fi lm. For the third episode, Danny Ocean (Clooney) assembles his henchmen for another heist. Casino owner Willy Bank double- crosses one of the original eleven, Reuben Tishoff (Elliott Gould) and the sting is on. Rated PG-13

PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: AT WORLD’S END Will Turner (Orlando Bloom) and Elizabeth Swann (Keira Knightley) are allied with Captain Barbossa (Geoffrey Rush) in a desperate quest to free Captain Jack Sparrow (Johnny Depp) from his mind-bending trap in Davy Jones’ locker. The terrifying ghost ship, The Flying Dutchman, with where the typewriter is hidden. She refuses to an- Davy Jones at the helm, are under the control swer and is thrown into solitary confi nement without of the East India Trading Company. They wreak her pills. Soon she goes into withdrawl and is willing havoc across the Seven Seas. Rated PG-13 the lives of others to talk to get her pills. Donnersmarck’s re-creation of the austaire East German communist state sets the stage for his sav- vy character development. The story is leading up to movie review the fall of the communist block and the reunifi cation of Germany in 1989. The Stasi offi cers are tentacles BY RICK GRANT [email protected] of Minister Hempf’s sadistic campaign to bring down Georg and ruin Christa-Maria’s life. Ulrich Muehe effectively captures Gerd Wiesler’s inner confl icts A Rated R 134 min Stasi. She is forced to have an affair with a high RATATOUILLE A cheeky rat living within the raking Stasi offi cer, Minister Bruno Hempf (Thomas of a man trying to fi nd his emotional core, but who walls of a famous Paris bistro longs to become This penetrating German fi lm, written and di- Thieme), who gets her pills for her. Of course, this is forced to be a robotic pawn in Hempf’s machina- a chef but is hindered by his family’s skepticism, rected by Florian Henckel Von Donnersmarck, won betrayal of her lover causes her much guilt and tions. When the Berlin Wall is fi nally brought down, the rodent-hating staff, and patrons of the an Oscar in 2006 for best foreign fi lm. Donners- shame. restaurant. Rated G marck’s bleak mosaic depicts the dismal, oppressed Unhappy with his life lives of the East Germans under Communist rule. in East Germany, Georg de- SICKO In his typical attack-dog journalistic style, In this paranoid system, the ruthless secret police cides to speak out by writing documentary fi lmmaker Michael Moore takes (known as the Stasi) are everywhere, following or a magazine article under a on the broken healthcare system in America, surveilling almost everyone. Artists and intellectuals, nom de plume about the East featuring HMO horror stories and an in-depth look such as writers, poets, actors, and college profes- German cover-up of the high at foreign healthcare systems, specifi cally in Cuba sors, were automatically suspected of sedition. Their suicide rate in the country. and France. Rated PG-13 houses were bugged and bulging fi les were kept on The Stasi are thorough. They each one of them. investigate the makes of type- THE LIVES OF OTHERS This drama traces the Stasi goons in trenchcoats (100,000 strong writers that could have written gradual disillusionment of Captain Gerd Wiesler, with 200,000 informers) had sweeping powers of this article. Georg is given a a highly skilled offi cer who works for the Stasi, arrest without probable cause. Speaking out publicly special typewriter that he hides East Germany’s all-powerful secret police. His and criticizing the government would get an indi- under a doorway sill. However, mission is to spy on a celebrated writer and vidual a one-way ticket to a hell-hole gulag, where the Stasi kingpin is convinced actress couple, Georg Dreyman (Sebastian Koch) he or she would be tortured and held indefi nitely. But Georg wrote the piece, and and Christa-Maria Sieland (Martina Gedeck). This just across the Berlin Wall, freedom beckoned. has his house searched sev- fi lm took home the Oscar for Best Foreign Film. Set in 1986, three years before Glasnost eral times without fi nding the Rated R brought down the Wall, many East Berliners risked typewriter. their lives to escape to the West. This is the story of Frustrated by lack of TRANSFORMERS The earth is caught in the a writer, Georg Dreyman (Sebastian Koch), and his evidence on Georg, Hempf orders Wiesler to get lives are changed forever. This amazing fi lm gives middle of an intergalactic war between two girlfi riend, Christa-Maria Sieland (Matina Bedeck), an something on Georg or he will be disciplined. Wiesler viewers a shocking look at oppressive governments races of robots– the heroic Autobots and the actress. The couple is trying to practice their respec- resists these orders and continues to fi le favorable and how paranoia infects everyone like the plague. evil Decepticons. Both are able to change into tive arts while living within the narrow government reports on Georg. Finally, Hempf has Christa-Maria Viewers leave the theater thanking God that we live in a variety of objects, including cars, trucks, and guidelines. Clearly, it was impossible. picked up and interrogated by Wiesler, who asks her a free democratic country. planes. Rated PG-13 Unbeknownst to Georg, his house is bugged, even the bathroom, and every word he or Christa- SPECIAL SHOWINGS Maria utters is recorded and typed out by a seem- ingly emotionless Stasi offi cer, Capt Gerd Wiesler Not Just for Baby Boomers Film Series (Ulrich Muehe), who is secretly living vicariously See great movies that boomers grew up with that through Georg’s rich social life and is in love with still intrigue and enthrall all generations. Relax at a Christa-Maria. Later in the fi lm he intervenes in an FREE 5:45 pm showing every 2nd and 4th Thursday ironic twist in the story to save Georg and Christa- of a classic fi lm in the Jacksonville Public Library Maria from arrest. Main Branch Auditorium with complimantary As Wiesler listens day after day, he begins to popcorn and soda and then enjoy an evening sympathize with Georg’s feelings of frustration at downtown. HIGH NOON will be screened on July being trapped in the East German Marxist system, 26. Info: 630-2665 or www.jaxpubliclibrary.org/ which does not allow him any freedom of expres- librarynews/main_boomers_2007.html sion. Christa-Maria is addicted to prescription drugs that make her vulnerable to manipulation by the 

eujacksonville.com | july 26-august 1, 2007 9 Master Pancake Theatre The San Marco Theatre will host Master Pancake Theatre doing The Breakfast Club on 7/27 at 11:55 pm and on 7/28 they will do Pretty Woman at 9:30 pm and a One Man He Man Show at 11:55 pm. Read more about this hilarious experience on page 7. Info: 396-4845.

Summer Movie Classics 2007 The Florida Theatre will be showing Summer Movie Classics on Sundays throughout the Summer. Enjoy great selections from cinematic history in the beautiful setting of one of Jacksonville’s own classics. Nashville will be shown Sunday, July 29. All showings start at 2 pm. Call 355-ARTS or go to fl oridatheatre.com for details.

MOCA in the Middle and Summer Cinema Wednesday’s come alive at the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) Jacksonville from 5 to 9 pm. Bring your family and friends to enjoy live music and dancine in the atrium during the 5 to 7 pm happy hour with a full liquor bar. Pamper yourself with free makeovers in the lobby — courtesy of Daniel James Salon. Then treat yourself to dinner in the critically-acclaimed Café Nola. Catch the Summer Cinema and stay after the fi lm for dessert. This Wednesday, August 1, MOCA Jacksonville presents Y Tu Mamá También. This Spanish fi lm with English subtitles, directed by Alfonso Cuarón, is rated R. Abandoned by their girlfriends for the summer, teenagers Tenoch and uplifting romantic comedy Julio meet the older Luisa at a wedding. Trying to be impressive, the friends tell Luisa they are headed on a road trip to a beautiful, secret beach called Boca del Cielo. Intrigued with their story No Reservations movie review and desperate to escape, Luisa asks if she can join them on their trip. Soon the three are headed BY RICK GRANT [email protected] out of Mexico City, making their way toward the relationship that will ignite a passionate romance, but fi ctional destination. Along the way, seduction, B Rated PG 105 min. in the kitchen, Kate doesn’t recognize she is falling argument and the contrast of the trio against the This remake of the 2001 German, for Nick. Everything he does annoys her, but she harsh realities of surrounding poverty ensue. Mostly , stayed true to the original screenplay written can’t deny they have explosive chemistry together. If you are not already a MOCA member, take Martha by Sandra Nettelbeck, making it the same fi lm, only The hook of Nettelbeck’s script is Kate’s ability advantage of the Film Series membership special spoken in English. Catherine Zeta-Jones and Aaron to adjust to rapidly changing situations in her life. – join the Museum the night of the movie and then Eckhart play the lead roles of Kate and Nick, with From fi rst the appearance of Zoe to contending with watch the show for free! Info: 366-6911. Abigail Breslin playing the young Zoe. In the past, Nick at work, it’s fun watching Kate juggle her life remakes were done after a number of years had with Zoe and fi nd romance in the hectic world of the passed. Now, the time frame of shooting a remake restaurant life. As anyone who has ever worked as a has been greatly reduced. Subtitled fi lms like Mostly chef in a restaurant knows, it’s an all-consuming job. Martha draw few viewers, so a remake is a safe bet. Whereas Nettelbeck wrote and directed Mostly The premise involves Master Chef, Kate (Zeta- Marsha, Scott Hicks directed this remake, with Carol Jones), whose life is turned upside down when her Fuch’s script-doctoring, making subtle changes for sister is killed in a car accident and her 8-year old American audiences. Hick’s direction is different niece Zoe is left in her care. Kate is completely un- than Nettelbeck’s, but he gave the actors leeway to prepared to be a step-mother to her niece. She takes interpret the characters. Zeta-Jones captures Kate’s Zoe to work at the restaurant where she is head chef, dilemma effectively as she struggles to adjust to the trying to keep the kid busy and out of the way. radical changes in her life and her sorrow at losing For Kate, dealing with Zoe is a stressful prob- her sister. When you are caught in a whirlpool, it’s lem, but she does the best she can. Her boss hires hard to think rationally. IMAX Theater a sous chef, Nick (Aaron Eckert), without telling her. In Kate’s case, the demands of her job do not HARRY POTTER AND THE ORDER OF THE Now, not only does she have to cope with being a allow her to properly grieve for her sister, that, com- will be shown on the 80-foot-wide PHOENIX step-mother to Zoe, but she has to adjust to working pounded by her responsibility to Zoe, have left Kate by six-story-high screen at the IMAX Theatre with another chef. Yes, Kate is stressed out by the in a neurotic state with confused emotions. Zeta- beginning July 13. The IMAX Theatre is located in sudden turn of events. Unaccustomed to working Jones plays Kate’s emotional turmoil brilliantly and the Word Golf Hall of Fame, One World Golf Place, with another chef, she clashes with Nick right away. with a great sense of comedic timing. Eckert plays St. Augustine. Info and tickets: 904-940-4022 or However, her boss is patient with her, even when she off Zeta-Jones’ energy with zealous acting skill. Nick wgv.com. tells customers off for sending meat back that is not gets off on Kate’s befuddlement, and he tries to quell rare enough. her fears. Viewers can easily predict where this story is In this tumultuous situation, love blooms. Zoe going, but it’s fun getting there. Zeta-Jones show- is a bright little girl who, like all smart girls, manipu- cases her acting chops with skillful verve. She char- lates her new step-mom. Of course, the sudden trag- acterizes Kate as a driven, type-A personality with ic death of Kate’s sister set off this chain of events boundless energy to work long hours in the kitchen in which Kate has had to adjust. As Kate gradually creating her culinary masterpieces. gets a grip on herself, life starts to settle down to a Being a guardian to Zoe is a major distraction new routine. It’s a fun ride for viewers to experience and it is exacerbated by her stormy relationship with Kate’s life changes and a new angle on an uplifting Nick. Of course, there are underlying sparks in their romantic comedy.

10 july 26-august 1, 2007 | entertaining u newspaper eujacksonville.com | july 26-august 1, 2007 11 NOW ON DVD

ZODIAC (157 min.) A serial killer in the San Francisco Bay Area taunts police with his letters and cryptic mes- sages. We follow the investigators and reporters in this lightly fi ctionalized account of the true 1970s case as they become obsessed in their search for the murderer. The movie’s focus is the lives and careers of the detectives and newspaper people. Rated R for brutal violence, language, drug material and brief sexual images.

PERFUME- THE STORY OF A MURDERER (147 min.) Jean-Baptiste Grunuis (Ben Whishaw) was born with a highly evolved sense of smell. Hired by Parisian perfumist Giuseppe Baldini (Dustin Hoff- man), he seems to have found his place in the world. But his successes in perfume-mixing are negated by a blinding obsession for capturing the sublime beauty of the human soul, which, in his twisted logic, requires the killing of young women to reduce their body fats to essential oils for the ultimate, cannibalized eau de parfum. Rated R for aberrant behavior involving nudity, rage, drug-induced stupors and fear all within 90 violence, sexuality, and disturbing images. paris hilton of the 60s minutes time. Pearce, too, gives the performance of his career as the bizarre pop icon Andy Warhol. THE NUMBER 23- Unrated Infi nifi lm Edition (101 He so embodied the role that it wasn’t until the fi lm min.) was almost over that I recognized Pearce under the On his birthday, Walter Sparrow (Jim Carrey) is Factory Girl dvd review make-up and wigs. These performances alone are given a mysterious and tattered book called The worth the cost of a rental. Number 23 by his loving wife, Agatha (Virginia Unlike Paris Hilton, Edie Sedgwick was a fasci- Madsen). As Walter reads the book, he quickly BY KELLIE ABRAHAMSON [email protected] nating woman whose life deserves to be explored, or notices its alarming similarities to his own life. Edie Sedgwick was the Paris Hilton of the a look at the fi lm’s premieres in Santa Barbara and at the very least remembered. While Factory Girl is Rather than stop reading, he continues, unknow- 60s. A beautiful heiress who was famous for being New York. The most interesting extra, however, is not the end-all be-all of Sedgwick fi lms, it does make ingly inviting the book to take over his life. This famous, Sedgwick became the muse of pop art god- a 30-minute glimpse at Sedgwick’s life called “The one curious about the life and death of this iconic DVD release is not rated. father Andy Warhol. The relationship was mutually Real Edie.” This featurette is made up of interviews beauty. It’s hard to know if any of what the fi lm sug- benefi cial, each of them feeding off of the other’s ce- with friends, roommates, photographers and rela- gests really happened, but it is certainly an interest- THE HOST- TWO-DISC COLLECTOR’S EDITION lebrity while indulging in the lifestyle they themselves tives who witnessed Edie’s rise and fall fi rsthand. ing and entertaining version of the era. (120 min.) created. Factory Girl is a fi lm about Sedgwick’s life Of particular interest here are observations made by The Parks seem to lead a quite ordinary and and her relationship with the man who made her his Sedgwick’s brother, who seems to wholeheartedly peaceful life until their daughter is snatched own personal superstar. Factory Girl is now available approve of the fi lm’s version of events. away from her father by a horrifying giant mon- on DVD. Even with the endorsements of both her broth- ster that emerges from the River Han to wreak It’s the mid-60s, and socialite Edie Sedgwick er and her widower (who can be seen in the pre- havoc on Seoul, Korea. Her family reaches a (Sienna Miller) has dropped out of art school and mieres featurette), Factory Girl feels exaggerated and boiling point as the characters try to assign moved to New York where she plans on experienc- off. Warhol is painted as the villain, using up Edie blame for the tragedy before eventually joining ing art instead of simply documenting it. She gets and then throwing her away. While I have no doubt forces to save the girl’s life. Rated R for creature her wish when she catches the eye of Andy Warhol Warhol used people, his interest in and respect for violence and language. (Guy Pearce), a young artist who had become the Sedgwick is well-documented and this fi lm seems to golden boy of the underground art world. Warhol im- question that. The Billy Quinn/Bob Dylan character SHAKESPEARE RETOLD (360 min.) mediately takes Edie under his wing and she eagerly was so offensive to the folk singer that his lawyers The four cutting-edge productions in this collec- goes along, hoping Andy lives up to his promise to threatened to sue. Friend of Sedgwick and former tion bring Shakespeare to life for a 21st century make her a star. The two are inseparable, making member of the Velvet Underground, Lou Reed called audience. Macbeth is the chef in a three-star experimental fi lms, attending the best parties and the script “one of the most disgusting, foul things restaurant, slicing apart his celebrity boss, Dun- spending all their spare time at Warhol’s studio, the I’ve seen- by any illiterate retard- in a long time” and can. Beatrice and Benedick are rival co-anchors Factory. For a while there, Sedgwick does become a described the fi lmmakers as “a bunch of whores.” on a nightly newscast whose open hostility star. Their movies do well in New York and Paris and These harsh criticisms certainly raise an eyebrow masks passion of a different kind. Titania and the press seems to love her. Things are going swell as to the factuality of the plot. Additionally, it felt like Bottom carouse together in a tawdry theme until Edie’s trust fund runs out and she turns to Andy chunks of the movie were removed. The fi rst time we resort called Dream Park. And the eccentric aris- for some cash, convinced he owes her for all the see Edie, she seems normal and naive. The next time tocrat Petruchio sets out to tame the conserva- free acting she did for him. Warhol disagrees. Their we see her she’s sassy and confi dent, dancing with tive MP Kate in a politically incorrect marriage of fi nancial dispute and Sedgwick’s increasing drug use wild abandon and fi ghting off suitors with haughty convenience. This fi lm is not rated. drives a wedge between them and Edie turns to folk laughter. Where did the girl we fi rst met go? Unfor- singer “Billy Quinn” (the character is based on Bob tunately the fi lm gives no answers. This happens RENAISSANCE (105 min.) Dylan, but because he denies the relationship ever several times throughout the fi lm as Sedgwick’s life In 2054, Paris is a labyrinth where all movement took place, the fi lmmakers had to use a pseudonym spirals out of control. First she’s fi ne, then she’s is monitored and recorded. The city’s largest for the character played by Hayden Christensen) for worse and then she’s worse still. There’s no clear company, Avalon, sells its primary export- youth support, a move that makes Warhol extremely jeal- transition between the events, no real red fl ags. The and beauty. The sudden kidnapping of a gifted ous and even more distant. The whirlwind romance pacing makes her seem bipolar and I don’t think that young scientist draws a tough-as-nails cop into of Sedgwick and “Quinn” is short-lived, however, was the fi lmmaker’s intention. a twisted underworld of corporate espionage, because Edie can’t bear losing Andy’s friendship. What the fi lm does have in spades is remark- genetic research and organized crime. Featur- She tries to make amends, but the damage is done, able performances by the lead actors. Miller, who ing the voices of Daniel Craig, Jonathan Pryce and so is her 15 minutes of fame. I’ve never looked at twice, actually made me sit up and Ian Holm. Rated R for some violent images, The Factory Girl DVD has plenty of fascinat- and take notice with her engaging portrayal. She, sexuality, nudity and language. ing bonus features, including an audio commentary like Sedgwick herself, dominated every frame she track with director George Hickenlooper, a deleted was in. In Factory Girl she shows off an impressive scene, Miller’s audition, a making-of featurette and range, pulling off confi dence, sadness, naiveté,

12 july 26-august 1, 2007 | entertaining u newspaper a hit out of the box video games for lifetime BY NORM STOVALL [email protected] Army Wives BOMBERMAN LIVE for Xbox 360

BY RICK GRANT [email protected] After the disappointment that was Bomberman Act Zero for the XBox 360, its developer, Hudson, Army Wives was a breakout hit for Lifetime increasing death toll. had a lot to make up for. Not only was it a bad game, but many people considered it to be one of the Television, and the network has already green-light- In the pilot episode, Roxy marries PFC Trevor worst games on the system. So does this new Bomberman do any better? The answer to that is an ed a second season of this hit that debuted in June. LeBlanc after a one-day courtship and moves with emphatic YES. But what is so great about it? The graphics are far from next-gen, but they do the job It stars Kim Delany and Catherine Bell (Jag) as stal- her two kids to base housing. She takes a job bar- effectively. All of the characters in the game are colorful, and each person playing can customize their wart Army wives holding down the homefront while tending at a local joint where civilian men go to pick Bomberman character to their liking with lots of different accessories to choose from. Gameplay-wise, their husbands serve in Iraq and Afghanistan. The up enlisted men’s wives who cheat while their hus- Bomberman Live plays just like almost every other version of Bomberman to date. The goal is to navi- series was adapted by Katherine Fugate from Tanya bands are deployed. Roxy meets Joy (Delany) who gate your character around in a large single-screen maze, using bombs to clear a path, uncover power Biank’s book, which was a runaway best-seller. The believes that her husband Col. Michael Holden’s ups, and to defeat your enemies. (And by enemies, I mean other players.) premise is based on the adage that “they also serve expected promotion didn’t come through because Bomberman Live’s best aspect is its amazing multiplayer functionality. Not only can you face off who stand and wait.” of base politics. The pilot goes on to introduce the on Xbox live in games running with eight people, you can also bring four friends to play with you online The series’ drama comes from author Biank’s characters, and in future episodes, imprint them into from a single game console. Playing online is simple, and if you have an Xbox Live Vision camera, you real-life experiences as an Army wife. She created the viewers’ consciousness. can use that online in the menu screens. Bomberman is one of those games that can really appeal to all a cast of waiting spouses, including one man, who Lifetime President of Entertainment, Susanne age groups, and though learning to play the game is simple, anyone can have a great time with it. This is struggles with the fear and dread that their loved Daniels, is moving the network into prime time with one of my favorite Xbox Live titles to date. ones may not come back alive from their tours of programming and new series’ that can appeal to duty. The stress of this day-to-day tension can drive both women and men. She has presented Army these well-meaning spouses over the edge into Wives as the hit show that will carry momentum to epic shredding of destruction: round 2 alcoholism, infi delity, and depression. Others, like two other series on Sunday night, Side Order and the lead character Claudia Joy Holden (Kim Delany), State of Mind. So far, Wives is getting big numbers North Florida’s latest major Guitar Hero tournament channel their emotions into helping the other wives and paving the way for the other series’. cope and participating in public service on and off Overcoming the sudsy aspects of this dramatic WHAT: Guitar Hero the base. series are the acting skills of Delany and Bell. They tournament Catherine Bell portrays Denise Sherwood, a not only establish their characters, but they provide WHERE: [skateboard shop] fun-loving person who is forced into the role of duti- a strong anchor for the other actors to create mem- Board City of Orange Park ful Army wife. Of course, there is the sleazy Roxy orable characterizations. The series portrays Army WHEN: Sunday, July 29th (Sally Pressman) and Pamela (Brigid Baannagh) wives realistically without glossing over the real who are barely able to hold it together. Representing issues, such as infi delity, alcoholism, and divorce. If the size of the previ- the male point of view is Roland (Sterling K.Brown) Going into the 8th episode, the scripts have ous tournament can be an whose wife Joan Burton (Wendy Davis) is fi ghting been engrossing with surprise twists. In one epi- indicator, this weekend’s post-traumatic stress attacks by drinking heavily. sode, a returning soldier suffering from Post-Trau- Guitar Hero face-off should Joan was in command of a patrol that responded to matic Stress Disorder takes a group of wives and be packed with wall-to-wall an act of brutality against a child, but the rules of others hostage in the base hospital. It turned out games of Guitar Hero. In engagement prevented her from allowing her troops he was one of the soldiers who witnessed the civil- addition to the major draw, to intervene. She feels terrible guilt over this inci- ian girl being raped and tortured while under Joan the latest edition of Guitar dent. Burton’s command. She had to have him restrained Hero running in tournament Pamela’s pregnancy has united the women to prevent him from intervening, which exacerbated style fashion, there should and fed the gossip mill since she hired herself out his PTSD, turning him psychotic. be some other casual video games running as well. Entry is open to anyone wanting to play. Five dollars as a surrogate mom because she and her husband With Lifetime and other cable networks of- is asked as a door fee, and the 10 dollars to enter the tournament will be split amongst the winners as (Jeremy Davidson) need the money. Meanwhile, fering new programming, it has uplifted viewers’ a cash prize. Bringing your own PS2 guitar controller is encouraged, but not required. Additionally, you Roxy has made it clear she is no nun and is not the summer doldrums. There is plenty of new product can get a discounted door fee if you dress up in 80s gear! The Event starts at 6 pm. For more info on faithful kind. The dramatic possibilities are endless out there to check out. Soon, FX is launching Dam- this tourney, log onto the forums of scorehero.com and search for Orange Park in the tournaments cat- as the Army base becomes a microcosm of Amer- age starring Glenn Close as a ruthless head of a egory, or call Isak at Board City at (904) 272-6996. Hopefully, we’ll see you there! ica’s support of the troops but longing desperately law fi rm. She was so impressive on The Shield, the to end America’s involvement in Iraq with its daily network offered Close her own series.

eujacksonville.com | july 26-august 1, 2007 13 of the fi nest restaurants in and around Jack- sonville. The Chef also did a step-by-step demo of his stuffed chicken wrapped in bacon. Next, Chad Munsey of San Marco wine spot, The Grotto, spoke about “Summer Wines” as part of his lifestyle wine segment. Wine can certainly enhance any meal, if you know how to choose the right one. This was the beginning of the all day Super Chefs event. It’s held every year in the Avenues Mall and it’s a free event. Mark it on your calendar for next year if you missed it this year. The big draw for the event was Daisy Martinez, of the PBS show Daisy Cooks! She’s brought Latin cuisine and her big heart into many homes through her show. Born to Puerto Rican parents in Brooklyn, New York, she learned the love and joy of the kitchen from her parents and grandpar- ents. She recently came off a book tour for her cookbook Daisy Cooks! Latin Flavors Bacon Wrapped Stuffed Chicken That Will Rock Your World. We got the chance to speak to her backstage at the event. Since Latin desserts are featured in her book, I asked about some of the wonderful super chefs live! Latin desserts that are fi nally becoming part of general American culture. Daisy Martinez “We have wonderful stuff with dif- BY ERIN THURSBY [email protected] ferent cream fi llings…and desserts like tres leche…I think the mainstream is getting more People from all ethnicities say to me (whether they’re With a practiced hand, Chef Tony Corrente of Heirloom tomatoes, which may not have the interested in Latin foods. Mainstream organizations Asian, orthodox Jewish or Italian): ‘Sundays at my The Chef’s Garden, sliced up heirloom tomatoes as uniform red appearance of more commercially bred like Haagen Daas—dolce de leche is now the new grandmother’s house was just like that!’ [They] he told the crowd how to prepare a fresh vinaigrette tomatoes, are in season and bursting with fl avor. vanilla…With this renaissance, this new interest in come around a table for security, love and celebra- for a delicious Heirloom Tomato Salad at the recent Chef Corrente let the audience in on the open secret Latin fl avors, culture and cuisine, I think we’ll be see- tion no matter where they are or where they come Simon Mall Super Chefs event. that adds so much to tomato-based dishes in some ing a lot more [Latin food].” from. It’s a commonality that binds us all.” Going on her recent book tour really validated Daisy judged the fi nal event at the Super Chefs things for her, since she doesn’t get to interact with Event, a cook-off between Chef Tony Corrente and fans while taping her show. On her book tour she Mark Oellerich (of The Charthouse). The two chefs had people coming up to her and asking about her used “mystery ingredients” to put together a quick

Heirloom Tomato Salad

family members, because fans feel a connection to meal in less than 15 minutes, cheered on by Jack- her through her television show. sonville Jaguar cheerleaders. Daisy and the audience “I’ve invited them through the television into eventually found the contest to be a tie. my home, into my family. They know my children’s Each of the Simon Mall Properties holds fun names, my dog’s name.” and interesting events, free to the public. The annual Connecting with her fans in real life is what Super Chef event, which tours the country at differ- makes events like the Simon Mall Super Chef event ent malls, is the premiere free event of the year at the so special to her. Avenues. Check the Simon Mall website for future As a country of immigrants, she says, people events. You can buy Daisy Martinez’s cookbook at worked hard to “recreate the experience of home… any area bookstore.

14 july 26-august 1, 2007 | entertaining u newspaper And it’s no wonder. Chef Ian has quite a re- sume here in the Jacksonville area, having worked at Pastiche and Crush, among others. Because this other wine bars Tastings is only the second in the franchise, Chef Ian has the opportunity to help develop some of the BISTRO AIX menu himself, a task to which he’s aptly suited. (1440 San Marco Blvd in Jacksonville, 904- “They’ve been very open about my sugges- 398-1949) tions,” said Ian as he chopped heirloom tomatoes, A favorite spot among local foodies, this French tomatoes that, by the way, make for an awesome bistro is known as a “fancy” restaurant. But for and fl avorful bruschetta. The bruschetta plate is the more casual user, they have their new urban also served with a goat cheese and wild mushroom bar, which is a beautiful and casual amendment spread. The goat cheese is cut with cream cheese, to the Bistro Aix experience. Their wine cellar making the fl avor more subtle and improving the contains more than 250 wines from all over the texture so that it can be spread on bread. Two types globe and there is something for every palate of fl at bread came with this dish—a kind of toast and pocketbook. cracker and bread that was fl uffy in the center and crispy on the outside, like a tiny sliced baguette. CRUSH Cute and tasty. Who knew? (3630 Park Street in Jacksonville, 904-381- Wine and cheese lovers will enjoy the thorough 0909) selection of more than fi fteen cheeses. I discovered Although it is more of a French bistro these their Humbolt, a goat cheese with vegetable ash, days, this Riverside restaurant was once only which tastes like a combination of standard goat a wine store, then it evolved into a wine bar cheese and creamy cambret before fi nally settling to be a casual yet upscale Chef Ian’s favorite salad on the menu is the Riverside restaurant. They still have a nice wine Anitpasto Chopped Salad of Romaine, Salami, So- bar and a terrifi c selection of fi ne wines. Prices pressata (slightly spicy dry-cured salami), asiago food entwined with wine range, as do styles and countries of origin, but cheese and provolone tossed with an aged balsamic they have one of the best selections of Riesling vinaigrette. in town. The most popular salad on the menu, though, Tastings is the Spicy Salmon Skewers & Baby Spinach. It’s a THE GRAPE salad that pops with fl avor. Even as I write this, I’m (10281 Midtown Pkwy in the Town Center in craving another taste of that seasoned but lightly Jacksonville, 904-642-7111) BY ERIN THURSBY [email protected] spiced salmon set apart with the lemony taste of the This is a corporate wine bar for people that have that you might not even like? They also have a retail deliciously simple vinaigrette. a predetermined idea about what a wine bar is. store, so if you fi nd a wine you fall in love with or I can’t resist dessert, so when I was offered a might be perfect for a friend, you can take it home taste of their chocolate cake, I gave in to the Dark They are committed fi rst and foremost to wine, that day! Side and had a piece (despite looming bridesmaid so they do special meals that pair different The fi rst Tastings opened just two years ago duty in a dress that makes me look ten pounds courses of their cuisine with different wines and in St. Pete. The owners of the franchise, who are heavier). I didn’t swoon over this cake, but the fresh they have a wine shop attached in case you fi nd wine enthusiasts, happened upon a wine bar in Italy fruit that came with it, the pretty presentation and the that perfect wine. Although not as affordable as that had machines dispensing the wines. They loved presence of chocolate earned it a solid B-. That was Total Wine, they do have more than 120 wines the idea so much that it was nurtured into Tastings. until they served me Rosa Regale, a sweet bubbly that you can taste and purchase by the bottle. Jacksonville is only the second location of the fran- that launched the taste of the slice into the strato- chise, but this fresh and innovative idea is sure to sphere. It helped me discover depths of fl avor in that THE GROTTO catch on. chocolate cake that I hadn’t known before. (2012 San Marco Blvd in Jacksonville, 904- There’s a new wine bar in town that is aptly Here’s how it works: you buy a Tastings card And that’s the point really, the wine enhances 398-0726) named Tastings. Though wine is the focus, they do and load it with cash, using it to buy a taste, half- the food and the food enhances the wine. Tastings The Grotto is a San Marco stalwart for wine and have a great little menu that will tickle your taste glass or full glass. Each wine has a display above it just helps in the quest to eat, drink and be merry. cheese connoisseurs. Their San Marco location buds even if you aren’t into the vino. which cycles through the prices for each. Scan the Located at 1515 Prudential Drive, next to makes them the perfect place to start or end an They’ll pour you wine at the bar, but the real card, select your size and place your glass under the Chart House. Call (904) 346-0605 or visit elegant evening in San Marco, and the ambience gimmick is the wines they have on tap. The process spigot. It’s simple and fun, sort of like an upscale awineexperience.com. is like an authentic Italian wine grotto. Except keeps them fresh with a vacuum seal and nitrogen. arcade of wine. that it is not actually in a cave. But when there This lowers the oxygen content and helps the wine to But, as I said before, it’s not just about the you forget you’re in a storefront. Select from keep as fresh as the day it was uncorked. High-end wine. The simply prepared but excellent food will one of their more than 50 wines by the glass or wines are not often available by the glass because be bringing me back. The menu is carefully crafted take home a bottle that is perfect for the season. wines only keep for so long after they’ve been to complement wine for a lovely interplay of fl avor. corked. Good wines especially, can turn in fl avor Those who work in the area are just discovering it as SIMONS A WINE BAR sometimes within two days, so whatever patrons a low-key, mid-priced place to catch a tasteful lunch, (1004 Hendricks Ave in Jacksonville, 904-396- don’t fi nish that night is often used in sauces. Most with or without wine. 8088) restaurants can’t spare the expense of offering top On nights and weekends, Tastings gets quite The wines on their menu are categorized by vino by the glass. By putting their wines on tap a crowd. Despite that, the place still has an intimate region and you can fi nd Austrian wines from (which keeps them super-fresh), Tastings can of- feel. Only about eight weeks old, they’re still the new $21 per bottle or a 1995 Bordeaux for $3,400. fer you a taste, half-glass or full glass of the good kid on the block, but according to Chef Ian Gabbe, This quiet retreat is a great place for a private stuff. Who wants to buy a bottle of expensive wine they’ve already started to garner regulars. dinner, although the foods are a little rich, but to really get the full Simons experience you have to go on one of their live jazz nights.

WINE CELLAR (1314 Prudential Dr in Jacksonville, 904-398- 8989) The Southbank area seems to be where all of the wine bars get together and hangout. Wine Cellar is the oldest wine bar in the area, making it the classic wine bar for the Jacksonville area. Their continental cuisine can be paired with your choice from their enormous wine list. Put on your evening clothes and make it a formal night.

eujacksonville.com | july 26-august 1, 2007 15 MADHAPPY girl was in a purple bra and the man wore no shirt at all. They took their little dances very seriously. live music Like Perry Ferrel with a random Lollapalooza fan and a laptop, they cued up haunting, almost gothic, tunes with dance beats and then sang shows calendar over them. My friends had no problem with the vocal/rap duo. Although they exhibited no direct THURSDAY, JULY 26 musical ability, they also didn’t project a lack of ability. They avoided the question altogether. Open Mic w/Colleen Murphy Trade Winds Lounge, Finally, my reason for coming to TSI on this St. Augustine (829-8646) Friday night, Roargan took the stage. Their Ron Perry Roadhouse, Orange Park (264-0611) drummer set up at the pinnacle of the front stage The Summer Sandlot Tour TSI, Jax (635-3024) as their bass player setup in front of stage left and Chuck Nash My Place, Jax (737-5299) the centerpiece of the band, the thrift store organ, dominated the front of stage right. Big Engine Box Seats, Jax (908-7328) The band fl oundered into their set. The bass Open Mic w/Krank Shaft Overtime Sports Bar, Jax player broke a string during the fi rst song. This (786-5466) isn’t necessarily a bad sign, but it certainly Mike Sweet & Friends Kingshead Pub, St. Augustine ROARGAN impacted the power of the opening of the set. Undertones Mercury Moon, Orange Park (215-8999) The improvisational jam that passed the time Sweet Little Ditty Spare Time, Jax Beach (246-8099) during the string change was both impulsive and enjoyable, but immediately thereafter they dove back Blistur Rivers Edge, Fernandina (491-3849) into their droll set. Petey Wheatstraw Fusion, Jax roargan and again The next song fl oundered again in that place Mariachi Guadalajara Jimadores, Jax (739-5828) between new/fresh and uncertain/unfocused. Finally, Matt Still Buckets, Jax Beach (246-7701) on their third song, a pop sensibility broke through and the band played red-faced through a truly Roger That Square One, Jax (306-9004) Antarctic, Roargan and Madhappy at TSI impassioned song that evidenced their ability to rock Shana Banana Pottery Barn/Town Center, Jax when they really want to. From that point on it was (996-9388) hard to distinguish if their blaring and unfocused Jenna Metro The Jesters Court, St. Augustine BY JON BOSWORTH [email protected] songs were a trick meant for me, or an innovation in Yankee Slicers Players Grill, Orange Park (264-4633) rock music that I just don’t understand. Charlie Walker Caribbee Key, Neptune Beach (270-8940) I went to the show at TSI on Friday night immensity of their sound was phenomenal and the Organist Josh Dunn wasn’t by any means with two friends; a prominent local artist and his complexity of their songwriting was only matched prolifi c on the keys, but he made the thing roar, Boogie Freaks Square One, Jax (306-9004) wife. We had a bit of a debate about whether or by the passion of their live performance. If this remaining true to the name of the band. Drummer The Mayhaws European Street, Jax (399-1740) not novices could innovate within their craft. The band can survive the two-year itch, they will be Mark Lynn ushered through systematic and frenzied Blue Sage Shoes Kingfi sh Grille, St. Augustine artist also happens to be a musician. His skills on composing and releasing some of the most amazing beats that gave the impression that every song (824-2111) the bass were unparalleled and as a guitarist he is songs this town has seen in that time. was intentional. In the end, we never decided if David Milam Shannon’s Irish Pub, Green Cove Springs equally formidable. But the question is, can a couple Following them, however, was a good example profi ciency on an instrument was necessary to of punks with a lot to say, a considerable amount advance music, but we were certain that Roargan The Company The Plaza, St. Augustine of this argument. Madhappy, an electropop band of passion and a rudimentary knowledge of their from Pensacola, reminded me very much of Panama wasn’t the band that people looking for traditional Joe T. Hames London Bridge, Jax (359-0001) instruments create a sound that is compelling and City Beach. That isn’t intrinsically negative, I spent rock and roll could appreciate. Antarctic played a set Wes Cobb Fly’s Tie Irish Pub, Atlantic Beach (246-4293) new? a spring break during college in Panama City Beach that traditional music lovers and innovators alike can Cornerstone The Mill Top, St. Augustine (829-2329) The fi rst band of the night was a local that I enjoyed very much, but a decent portion of enjoy, Madhappy played an articulate set of songs instrumental band that played something that could that only appeal to a narrow margin of listeners Ron Rodriguez Mellow Mushroom, Jax (997-1955) my enjoyment came from making fun of the people best be described as mathcore. They were not a that represented Panama City Beach. This pensacola and Roargan delivered a set that defi es explanation Tattooed Milionaires Jack Rabbits, Jax (398-7496) good example to cite in this debate, because from band didn’t strike me as from Panama City, but (and possibly even reason), but was still worth Jason Anderson The Brick, Jax (387-0606) inception to execution, this band was fantastic. They watching them perform somehow reminded me of seeing, even if only for a brief set. In the end, TSI Dana Salmela House of Jam, Mandarin (262-3377) played their songs with verve and they passionately the strange feeling of being in Panama City. put on another compelling show, this has become and skillfully banged away at a well-planned and something you can count on from this downtown Little Green Men West Inn Cantina, Jax (389-1131) This couple, a guy with braids and a girl with seemingly impulsive set. For a three-piece, the pink hair, wore cutoff jean shorts and no shirts. The “discotheque.” Junkrod Joe & the Cadillac Hearse Landshark Café (246-6024) Freeze Frame Fionn Maccool’s, Jax Beach (242-9499) Mr. Natural Whitey’s Fish Camp, Orange Park (269-4198) Out of Hand Lynch’s, Jax Beach (249-5181) Those Guys The Oasis, St. Augustine (471-3424) Thursday Night Throwdown Thee Imperial, Jax (475-0488) Ancient Harmony Freebird Live, Jax Beach (246-2473) Havoc Ragtime Tavern, Neptune Beach (241-7877) Stu Weaver D.S. Kennedy Coffee, Jax De Lions of Jah Twisted Sisters, Jax Beach (241-6453)

THURSDAY-FRIDAY, JULY 26-28 Von Barlow Springfi eld Station, Jax (356-8877)

FRIDAY, JULY 27 Eddie Money, Blistur The Landing, Jax Ocean Waves Band Cliff’s, Jax Beach (249-2777) The Better Half Kingfi sh Grille, St. Augustine (824-2111) Rip Tide w/Brian Turner Baseball Grounds, Jax Dana Salmela Cross Creek Restaurant, Jax Nate Holley Mellow Mushroom, Jax (997-1955)

16 july 19-25, 2007 | entertaining u newspaper After doing a bit of research, I found their music to be extremely accessible and very well-pro- Gary Campbell O.C. White’s, St. Augustine (824-0808) moted. These guys were almost like my arch nem- LeMonde Ocean 60, Atlantic Beach (247-0060) esis, seemingly doomed for a butt-load of questions Dave Massey On the Rocks, Jax (685-5268) destined to make them look like fools, but their obvi- Joon TSI, Jax (635-3024) ous class proved me wrong. They were poised and ready. Even though I attempted to pull out the inner Hollowpoint Militia Bourbon Street, Jax (641-8777) asshole in them, they were surprisingly prepared for Jenna Metro Backstreets, St. Augustine the worst, much to my distain. The Mooney Suzuki Jack Rabbits, Jax (398-7496) When asked who is best to spoon with in the Angela Roberts Casa Monica, St. Augustine tour, the response was split between Derek from Livid Spare Time, Jax Beach (246-8099) Bedlight for Blue Eyes, being that he was “cuddly,” and Brian from Sound the Alarm, being that he was C-5 Band Culhane’s Irish Pub, Atlantic Beach (249-9595) fi ve feet tall and didn’t seem to take up much room. Drivin’ South The Sandollar, Jax (251-3001) Based out of Brunswick, New Jersey, there’s a lot for Dread Clampitt Freebird Live, Jax Beach (246-2473) this band to live up to. Jersey was the foundation for such stellar acts as The Bouncing Souls, Thursday, Chris Tyler Band Brewsters Pub, Jax (223-9850) My Chemical Romance and The Misfi ts, so there is Mike Sweet & Friends Mi Casa Café, St. Augustine very little room for error in this high-profi le breeding (824-9317) ground. Matlock Rebar, Jax Although power pop is easy to digest, it’s Battle of the Bands Murray Hill Theatre, Jax (388-7807) almost impossible to set yourself apart from your Change Due The Norm, Jax (384-9928) peers, but these veterans are secure with their prod- uct. Johnny Flood Aromas, Jax (928-0515) “We go with what comes off naturally, but if it Jager Dave On the Rocks, Jax (685-5268) comes off being hooky, then more power to it. We David Milam Shannon’s Irish Pub, Green Cove Springs try to write what’s off the top of our head and what’s Crystal Bessels Kickback’s, Jax (388-9551) on our chest lyrically.” How they conduct their Internet promotions on Sugar Bear West Inn, Jax (389-1131) websites such as MySpace is not intrusive, but ac- Kill Jasper Brewsters Pit, Jax (223-9850) curately informative. The Village, Aerial Tribe Endo Exo, Jax (396-7733) “People that sign up on our account sign up to Matt Collins Pauly’s Pizza, Jax (727-9101) hot blooded be informed, or so we would hope, and so we keep them informed, but that’s kind of where it ends.” Mike Gottuso Mandarin Cigar Company, Mandarin All in all it was a basic interview, but I was Ace Winn Jerry’s, Jax (220-6766) interview with Tokyo Rose somewhat disappointed. I wish they would have left kLoB Starlite Café, Jax (356-4444) their guard down a bit. I felt like I was dealing with Gypsy Highway Duo Copelands, Jax Paris Hilton’s publicist. BY CHRISTINA WAGNER Shawn Lightfoot The Grape, Jax (642-7111) It was the hottest day in Jacksonville to date club circuit. Although not the usual hardcore fare that The Wainwrights Shannon’s Irish Pub, Green Cove and I was dressed to bartend an hour from now. I club-goers have come to expect from Thee Imperial, Springs Tokyo Rose still fi ts the bill for the new rock kids that had not yet heard from Tokyo Rose’s publicist and Battle of the Bands Fuel, Jax (425-3835) was a little bit worried about it, but I had connec- are willing to swelter in the heat as they wait for the tions. I phoned my friend down at Thee Imperial show to get underway. To be honest, I didn’t have a and he laid down the groundwork. They were now lot of hope that these guys would be worth my time. FRIDAY-SATURDAY, JULY 27-28 expecting me and I was making my way from one I expected big egoes and overcompensation during Red River Band Trade Winds Lounge, St. Augustine meeting to another. I pulled up to the venue and our brief Q&A. (829-9336) found myself surrounded by mini-rockettes (band The people at the club reassured me that the Token Blonde Mercury Moon, Orange Park (215-8999) dudes and super-fanatics). Pretty much what I guys were swell and they had enjoyed great experi- Kickin Lassie Roadhouse, Orange Park (264-0611) expected. What I did not expect was the wall of man- ences with them in the past, so I decided to look sweat and heat that struck me like a ton of bricks upon them with a fresh pair of eyes. I’m glad that I Pili Pili Caribbee Key, Neptune Beach (270-8940) when I entered the front door. It was almost like the did. He was right. I sat down with Ryan Dominguez Ruckus Cliff’s, Jax (645-5162) ninth wonder. Arizona felt like a walk-in cooler in (vocals, guitar) and Chris Poulsen (bass) outside Cornerstone Mill Top, St. Augustine (829-2329) comparison. of the back parking lot for a few minutes. I had Spade McQuade Fly’s Tie, Atlantic Beach (246-4293) Somewhere between emo and power-pop is not heard of Tokyo Rose until EU’s offi ce manager Ghostrider Monkey’s Uncle, Mandarin (2601349) Tokyo Rose. Their new album, The Promise in Com- placed a printed email from their publicist in front of promise thrives in that almost-punk genre that is me during the editorial meeting. I might not be about Ron Perry Casey’s, Yulee oh-so popular on the video channels, but instead of all the hip rockers on Fuse, MTV and the radio, but Those Guys The Oasis, St. Augustine (471-2451) Warped Tour, these guys are forging their path in the I’m usually well-informed on the underground scene. Roger That Lynch’s, Jax Beach (249-5181) Cliff Worrell & the Restless Kind Arnold’s, St. Augustine Cloud 9 Champs Lounge, Ponte Vedra (285-7777) Big Al & the Kaholics Square One, Jax (306-9004) Built For Comfort A1A Aleworks, St. Augustine (829-2977) Susie Kite Whitey’s Fish Camp, Orange Park (269-4198) Boogie Freaks Ragtime Tavern, Neptune Beach (241-7877) Go Ask Alice Players Grill, Orange Park (264-4633) Joe Watts Simons Wine Bar, Jax (396-8088)

SATURDAY, JULY 28 Robby Schenck Kickback’s, Jax (388-9551) Matlock, Red Letter Bullet Murray Hill Theatre, Jax (388-7807) Wormzilla Scores, St. Augustine Greyscale Ocean Club, Jax Beach (242-8884)

eujacksonville.com | july 19-25, 2007 17 Stan Ridgeway Jack Rabbits, Jax (398-7496) Ron McNeil: First, my friends and I love the Beatles’ music and we love playing it. Then, I attended a Landing Radio 80, Sparky , Jax (353-1188) Beatles convention and I met this guy Ardy Sarraf, The Paradise Band Twisted Martini, Ponte Vedra who looked like Paul McCartney. It was uncanny. Beach (280-8810) And he was an excellent bass player. My musician Goliath Casa Monica, St. Augustine friends and I were planning to form a Beatles tribute David Lee Readding Springfi eld Station, Jax band but we needed a Paul. This guy was it. But Lord of Darkness Club Fusion, St. Augustine (829-8333) when I told him our plans to dress in costumes and recreate the Beatles, authentic in every detail, he Ascension Zamar, Jax said he wasn’t interested. Kaos Opera Jester’s Court, St. Augustine But we didn’t give up and we hounded him. Busted & Confused Greybeard’s, Jax Eventually he agreed to do it. That was ten years Blistur Panama Hatties, St. Augustine (471-2192) ago. After we had been on the road for a couple of years we got an invitation to play Vegas. So, we Rock Ballet Tour/Trey Mcinytre UNF Fine Arts decided to up the quality of our show. We wrote a Center, Jax script and made the Vegas act more like musical Cain Was Able Spare Time, Jax Beach (246-8099) theater than a concert. That was the start of the fi rst Tropic of Cancer Ocean 60, Atlantic Beach (247-0060) cast with a permanent show at Planet Hollywood Toe in the Trigger Brewsters Pit, Jax (223-9850) in Las Vegas. In other words, we went from tour- ing musicians to show producers and hired a cast Brandon Clark Uncommon Grounds, Jax (398-3776) for the Vegas show. With the original cast, includ- Freeze Frame Twisted Sisters, Jax Beach (241-6453) ing me, Ardy Sarraf as Paul, Michael Amador as The Ruins Thee Imperial, Jax (475-0488) George, and Rolo Sandoval as Ringo. We extended Rip Tide w/Brian Turner Cliff’s, Jax Beach (249-2777) our touring schedule to include foreign gigs in vari- ous countries. Hayshaker Yesterdays, Jax (387-0502) Shawn Fisher & the Unknowns Freebird Live, Jax Beach (246-2473) EU: I’ve heard you guys are wildly popular and sell out most everywhere. Is that true? Pub Ragusa Livid , Jax (443-7055) RM: Absolutely. Everywhere we go we sell-out Strings of Fire Jimadores, Jax (739-5828) mostly on our fi rst visit. But after our fi rst show in Fool of a Take Inertia, Jax (355-6210) a city, we always get a sell-out the next time we perform there.” Extreme Music Fest 2 Brewsters Pit, Jax (223-9850) Brewsters Big Engine , Jax (223-9850) EU: Going into theater production was a big step. Mike Sweet & Friends Mi Casa Café, St. Augustine wanabeatles What prompted you to make that leap? (824-9317) RM: Well, we were touring and one day we real- Dana Salmela GQ’s, Jax ized that to expand our business horizons we could Dave Potts Flagler College, St. Augustine interview with Ron McNeil of the Fab Four have more than one cast performing, like touring Broadway shows. So when we got the house gig at Payton Page Mellow Mushroom, Jax (997-1955) Planet Hollywood in Vegas, we decided to become Quest Culhane’s Irish Pub, Atlantic Beach (249-9595) BY RICK GRANT [email protected] producers and musicians. It hasn’t been easy mix- Treagah Man Seawalk Hotel, Jax Beach ing business and touring, but we found it greatly Mike Shakelford The Homestead, Jax Beach (249-9660) WHAT: The Fab Four – Beatles Tribute Band The Fab Four was formed ten years ago and, increased our income possibilities. Of course, we since then, they have crafted a scripted show that have the surviving Beatles, Paul and Ringo, to thank Gunwitch House of Jam, Mandarin (262-3377) WHEN: July 31st WHERE: The Florida theater recreates the Beatles with precise attention to detail, for our success. Brett Norton House of Jam, Mandarin (262-3377) from the costumes and the accents to the amps and The Beatles’ music is timeless and everyone Stu Weaver Harry’s, Jax Beach (247-8855) Since the Mop-tops broke up in 1968, there guitars. The incredible stage show includes three enjoys witnessing a show that recreates a real Bea- Open Mic w/Larry Broussard St. Johns Pizza Grill, have been many Beatles tribute bands touring the costume changes, representing every era of the tles concert. People who remember the Beatles love Jax (287-9900) globe. This phenomenon honors the long-term infl u- Beatles’ eclectic career. This loving tribute to the us for our nostalgia value and young people love us The Impediments Kingfi sh Grille, St. Augustine ence of this iconic quartet, which produced one of Beatles has amazed audiences all over the world, because they get a chance to see a close facsimile (824-2111) the largest catalogues of exemplary songs in music including Japan, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Britain, Ger- of a live Beatles show. history. many, Mexico, and Brazil. Last Wednesday, I called Ron McNeil, who This show is for diehard Beatles fans and ca- SUNDAY, JULY 29 plays John Lennon in the show, to shed some light sual Beatles listeners alike. This is a scripted show Those Guys Sunset Grill, St. Augustine (471-5555) on the group’s stellar career. with incredible attention to detail. Once at the show, Dan Shepherd Harpoon Louie’s, Jax (389-5631) just close and open your eyes and the Beatles will 3 Sun Dog Steak & Seafood, Neptune Beach (241-8221) EU: What was the evolution of this group from the be reborn on stage. The Fab Four will be performing beginning? at the Florida Theater on Tuesday, July 31st. JW Gilmore Gypsy Cab Company, St. Augustine Subpoena Fuel, Jax (425-3835) Feel the Love Landing, Jax (353-1188) Blistur The Sandollar, Jax (251-3001) Big Engine Wild Bill’s, Jax Michael Funge Culhane’s Irish Pub, Atlantic Beach (249-9595) Isaac Byrd Jr. De Real Ting Café, Jax A1A North Fast Boys/Beach Marina, Jax Beach Tarik Hassan Sahara Café, Jax David Milam Mellow Mushroom, Jax (997-1955) Pili Pili Ocean Club, Jax Beach (242-8884) Grand Buffet Jack Rabbits, Jax (398-7496) Flashback Ragtime Tavern, Neptune Beach (241-7877) Jimmy Parrish Carib Key, Jax Beach (270-8940) Matanzas Trade Winds Lounge, St. Augustine (829-8646) Mr. Natural Whitey’s Fish Camp, Orange Park (269-4198)

18 july 19-25, 2007 | entertaining u newspaper working on your upcoming LP, King Vision. What’s Busted & Confused Past Time Bar, Jax the deal with the cram session? Spade McQuade Fionn Maccool’s, Jax Beach (242-9499) Jackson: Both the Mayan calendar and the Egyptian book of the dead prophesize the release of Mac’s 3rd Bass The Casbah, Jax (981-9966) iPhone as the kick off to the apocalypse, so we want Alexis Cone Thee Imperial, Jax (475-0488) to hustle to see how many of our new albums can be El Toro Loco Square One, Jax (306-9004) downloaded for free before we, as a band, burn up in a sea of fi re, spiteful and penniless. Gary Campbell Mill Top, St. Augustine (829-2329) Grunge: Well, King Vision was supposed to come out a full year ago. Year and a half, actually. It’s already MONDAY, JULY 30 late and now it’s not coming out until fall of this year, Sol Island Music Cortesses, St. Augustine (825-6775) so we thought it’d be cool to have a little tasty morsel for hardcore fans to get down with while we fi nished Charlie Walker Mellow Mushroom, Jax (997-1955) up the LP. Sam Pacetti The Mill Top, St. Augustine (829-2329) In Loving Memory Jack Rabbits, Jax (398-7496) EU: In 2002, Grand Buffet was awarded four songs Lary Smith Harmonious Monks, Jax (886-3040) alongside artists like Tom Waits and Igor Yuzov of Billy Bowers Sun Dog Steak & Seafood, Neptune The Red Elvises on the indie feature fi lm Project: Beach (241-8221) Valkyrie. How did you boys get hooked up with that Band of Destiny Square One, Jax (306-9004) gig? Jackson: They chose Tom Waits for the soundtrack Matt Still Ginger’s, Jax Beach because they couldn’t get Captain Beefheart and they War Within Brewsters Pit, Jax (223-9850) got us because they couldn’t get the Kottonmouth Out of Hand My Place, Jax (737-5299) Kings. Nolan Neal Fly’s Tie Irish Pub, Atlantic Beach (246-4293) Grunge: I wouldn’t call that a “hook-up.” The fi rst time I saw that fi lm, and actually realized that my Stu Weaver Harry’s, St. Augustine (824-7765) band was THE band in that movie, I had a strange trash talk feeling come over me. I didn’t know what to make of TUESDAY, JULY 31 it. Well, I understand now. That was God telling me to Grand Buffet interview kill myself. No disrespect to those dudes who made The Fab Four Florida Theatre, Jax that movie, they’re great guys. And let’s be honest, Billy & Vinnie Sun Dog Steak & Seafood, Neptune Project: Valkyrie is better than a lot of big budget, Beach (241-8221) BY CHRISTINA WAGNER Hollywood crap. But I bought it on DVD and have Matanzas Trade Winds Lounge, St. Augustine (829-8646) WHO: Grand Buffet tour? watched it now three times and it still makes me want Christina Wagner & Friends Mark’s Downtown, Jax WHERE: Jack Rabbits Jackson: It was abuzz with all the new information to suck off the hot-side of a shotgun. (355-5099) WHEN: Sunday, July 29th being processed behind it, we cut our tour teeth with Will Pearsall The Mill Top, St. Augustine (829-2329) I fi rst had the pleasure of meeting Grand Buffet that great man. EU: Do you have a favorite tour experience? Agents of the Sun Jack Rabbits, Jax (398-7496) back when I still worked at Thee Imperial. Jackson Grunge: It felt awesome. What I wouldn’t give for one Jackson: Going to Graceland with Wesley Willis at the and I engaged in some of the most interesting more headbutt from Wes. beginning of our touring career and hopefully being Dave Massey Kickback’s, Jax (388-9551) and beautifully bizarre conversation. It continued crucifi ed to the outside of a Jacksonville Chick-Fil-A at Those Guys Hurricane Patty’s, St. Augustine (827-1822) throughout the years via email and led me back to EU: Sienna Miller once called your hometown of it’s end. That would bookend all of our good and bad Blues Night Cortesses, St. Augustine (825-6775) Pittsburgh while on a winter tour with Whole Wheat tour experiences quite nicely. Pittsburgh, PA, Shits-burgh. Would you still make Ron Perry Fionn MacCool’s, Jax Beach (242-9499) Bread. We ended up crashing at Jarrod and Jackson’s out with her if you had the chance? Grunge: Here’s one: smoking ice in Oklahoma City. pad that evening and my mind exploded. There wasn’t Jackson: I wouldn’t kiss Sienna Miller with Mickey Awesome. Who says try once and you’re an addict? Matt Still Caribbee Key, Neptune Beach (270-8940) a free space on their walls. Nineties posters, random Rourkes’ penis. It’s just not so. Out of Hand Palace Saloon, Fernandina Beach toy collections, everywhere you turned there was Grunge: Not only would I make out with her, but Bill Rice Mellow Mushroom, Jax (997-1955) spectacular eye-candy demanding some form of I’d totally eat her English minge. That Shits-burgh EU: Have you boys ever spooned with a unicorn? Mystic Dino Lynch’s, Jax Beach (249-5181) explanation. I felt like that annoying kid, always asking comment didn’t mean sh*t, it was a joke taken out of Jackson: F*ck unicorns, they have been co-opted by why and where it came from, but the guys were context. Besides, you can’t expect a classist, snooty- people that don’t really believe they exist. Mike Miller Band St. Nick’s Lounge, Jax always happy to oblige. Grand Buffet is more than assed English woman to be comfortable in a city as Grunge: No, but I would totally eat a unicorn’s minge. Jimmy Solari My Place, Jax (737-5299) great hip-hop, more than brilliant stage performance, raw as Pittsburgh. Seth Ramsdill Fly’s Tie Irish Pub, Atlantic Beach it’s a dynamic experience and attendance is a (246-4293) requirement I am now bestowing upon everyone that EU: How does this EP, The Haunted F*cking Gazebo, El Toro Loco Square One, Jax (306-9004) reads this. You be the judge, show your face at Jack differ from your previous albums? Rabbits on Sunday, July 29th, and prepare yourself for Jackson: It is more dynamic, better sounds, better the awesomeness that is Grand Buffet. thinking, better men. TUESDAY-WED., JULY 31-AUG. 1 Grunge: It’s better. Gene Nordan Mackenzie’s, Ponte Vedra (543-9143) EU: You boys have toured with the great, late, Wesley Willis. How did your forehead feel after the EU: On the heels of your new EP, you are already WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 1 Mr. Beam Casa Marina, Jax Beach (270-0025) Jimmy Parrish Lillian’s, Jax Steve Plays Too Loud The Landing, Jax Dave Massey My Place, Jax (737-5299) Rip Tide w/Brian Turner Eddie Bahamas, Jax Beach (241-3138) Wes Cobb Band Square One, Jax (306-9004) Bryan Harris/Artwalk Plaza III Steakhouse, Jax Elisabeth Williamson Creekside Dinery, St. Augustine (829-6113) Offi cer Flossie Jack Rabbits, Jax (398-7496) Out of Hand-Music by the Sea The Pier, St. Augustine Stu Weaver The Mill Top, St. Augustine (829-2329) Joe T. Hames London Bridge, Jax (359-0001) Eric Dawkins Mellow Mushroom, Jax (997-1955) Syonide Landshark Café, Atlantic Beach (246-6024)

eujacksonville.com | july 19-25, 2007 19 FunKtion Brix, Jax Beach RED JUMPSUIT APPARATUS Failure To Fall Yesterday’s, Jax (387-0502) warped rock- the The Mike Miller Band St. Nick’s Lounge, Jax (396-3396) El Toro Loco Aromas, Ponte Vedra (280-2525) Sonoma Fuel, Jax (425-3835) Chuck Nash Sun Dog Steak & Seafood, Neptune jacksonville connection Beach (241-8221) Sidewalk 65 Latitudes, Jax Beach (247-6606) Pili Pili Fly’s Tie Irish Pub, Atlantic Beach (246-4293) two famous local bands, two different outlooks on fame Dave Massey My Place Bar & Grill, Jax (737-5299) The Vans Warped Tour has been coming to Jacksonville since 1996 but never with a homecoming quite like this. Local boys turned national treasures The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus and Yellowcard performed for a crowd full of people who, not long ago, watched these bands go from local venues to MTV. EU got to speak with lead singers upcoming shows Ronnie Winter of RJA and Ryan Key of Yellowcard during the tour’s Jacksonville stop about how far they’ve come, how our local music scene contributed to their success and where they are going. Bonerama August 3, Mojo’s Blues Bar, 247-6636 Black Kids Aug. 3, TSI, 424-3531 BY KELLIE ABRAHAMSON [email protected] Left Alone August 7, Thee Imperial475-0488 record label was there. There was one guy working YELLOWCARD Ben Kweller Aug. 9, Jack Rabbits, 398-7496 and the now defunct Art Bar. “We made music, we there when we fi rst got signed. I mean, we were played shows, people loved us. It was awesome.” stuffi ng envelopes and sending press kits out and Mae Aug. 9, Freebird Live, 246-2473 The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus joined in 2003. For it was just a step in our career. We were freakin’ Brad Paisley August 10, Jacksonville Arena, 630-3900 more than a year, the band wrote music for fun, never working the kitchen at Chili’s by day and stuffi ng intending to perform for real audiences. Soon though, envelopes at night. Sean [Mackin] and I were sharing Aug. 10, Jacksonville Memorial Pretty Ricky and Lil Boosie a friend heard their stuff and convinced them to a room and there were like ten people living in Ben Arena, 630-3900 book some gigs. Encouraged by the responses from [Harper] and Warren [Cooke]’s apartment. We were Evergreen Terrace August 11, Fuel Coffeehouse. 425-3835 audiences, the band recorded their fi rst EP, tweaked roughing it, man. We really wanted it.” the line up and soon caught the attention of Virgin Yellowcard came into existence a decade ago Aly & AJ August 12, Times Union Center, 633-6110 Records. While it seems like a lightning-fast transition and was a far different band from the one the world Lefty Williams Aug. 12, Jack Rabbits, 398-7496 from playing in private to selling Gold records, Winter knows now. In fact, only two of the band’s current admits that their road to rock stardom did contain the members (Mackin and drummer Longineu Parsons III) Billy Bob Thornton & The Boxmasters August 14, Freebird Live, 246-2473 usual bumps. are still in the group. After lead singer Ben Dobson left “We had a lot of hurtles. We actually got passed in 2000, Key stepped in and led the band to California, Blues Traveler Aug. 17, Freebird, 246-2473 six times in a row by six different labels and we the nation and the world. The release of their double Elekibass Aug. 17, TSI, 424-3531 just didn’t give up. That’s just the classic story, you Platinum fourth album, Ocean Avenue, introduced the know,” he said. “It took two failures before this band band to mainstream audiences and suddenly the boys Will Hoge Aug. 18, Jack Rabbits, 398-7496 to get all that right, to fi gure it out. My two bands were bona fi de rock stars. The Receiving End of Sirens Aug. 18, The Imperial, 475-0488 before that, I think that they had to fail. Duke’s bands “It’s like, 24-years old, 25-years old and your as ‘burg as they come before this had to fail and Elias and Joey’s band whole entire life’s been fl ipped, turned upside down,” Little River Band August 25, Jacksonville Landing, FREE, With his long hair pulled up into his hat and dark together, which was coincidentally our fi rst track on he describes of the time after Ocean Avenue hit it big. 353-1188 shades hiding his eyes, twenty-four-year old Ronnie the record ‘In Fate’s Hands,’ had to fail so that we “My biggest problem, I think, was the fact that so Static X August 29, Freebird Live, 246-2473 Winter looked like another face in the crowd when could succeed, you know what I mean? You learn many people decide who you are and what you stand we fi rst met backstage at the Warped Tour. A couple from your mistakes.” for before you’re old enough and mature enough to Aug. 30, European Street, 399-1740 Everybodyfi elds hours later, he was performing with his band in front One would think that a bunch of Middleburg decide for yourself. I fell into a lot of pitfalls that go Stone Sour August 31, Plush, 743-1845 of one of the largest crowds of the festival, but by this boys who got signed to Virgin Records would be on along with that, whether it was substance abuse or point in the day, Winter is laying low backstage, happy the fi rst fl ight to Los Angeles. Not these guys. self-indulgence, whatever. But at the same time I Poison w/Ratt and Vains of Jenna Sept 2, Jacksonville to speak with me about their seemingly overnight Arena, 630-3900 “We all still live here, man. What do you mean? always had a very strong conscience about it and success. All our family and friends are here. This is our home,” that’s what Lights and Sounds [the band’s fi fth CD] is. Blackwater Sol Revue w/JJ Grey & MOFRO, Los Lobos, Tony “It really wasn’t ever too diffi cult,” he mused he said. “I still hang out with the same people. I still It’s like, my inner struggle with things I knew were not Joe White, The Legendary JC’s and The Lee Boys September about RJA’s days of playing venues like Jack Rabbits live in the same house. Still walk the same dog down in my character, they weren’t things that I set out to 2, St.Augustine Amphitheatre, www.blackwatersolrevue.com. the same street, so as far as I’m concerned I’m as accomplish. I was very lost. And that record is like the The Rentals & Copeland Sept.2, Freebird Live, 246-2473 ‘Burg as they come.” search to get back to something.” So, what has changed for the guys of RJA? Yellowcard’s new album, Paper Walls, is the Dave Matthews Band Sep 11, O’Connell Center, Gainesville, “We’re way better musicians… I’m a better story of how they found themselves again. FL, (352) 392-1653 singer, our guitar player’s better, the drummer’s “It’s where we are now,” Key explained. “We’ve John Vanderslice Sept. 18, Café 11, 469-9311 light years better, so it’s fun for me because I’m sort of like traversed all these super highs and super watching all of my friends, and myself, get better,” lows and learned a lot along the way.” Bruce Bruce Sept. 21, Florida Theatre, 355-2787 Winter explained. “In October, fi nally, we moved up Queens of the Stone Age Sept. 21, Plush, 743-1845 into a bus… We got out of the van fi nally, which was righteous… Other than that we’ve sold a lot of records the jacksonville scene is Oct. 10, Florida Theatre, 355-2787 Nickel Creek and we’ve been on the radio a lot…” everything Bonde Do Role Oct. 10, TSI, 424-3531 One thing that both of these bands have in Sinbad October 12, Florida Theatre, 355-2787 the search to get back to common is their respect for the scene that helped make them. October 13, Florida Theatre, 355-2787 Clint Black something “I think when you’re starting out, [the local John Gorka October 13, Cafe Eleven An hour after chatting with Ronnie Winter, it scene is] everything because it gives you the was time to meet Ryan Key of Yellowcard. The sun confi dence to keep doing it,” Key said. “If you live in Acoustic Alchemy Oct. 23, Florida Theatre was high in the sky, and what little shade we had in some podunk town and you never get to play a show, Nada Surf, Sea Wolf October 27, Cafe Eleven the press area had retreated, so we did the same, I think it’s hard to get out of high school or college heading back to the tour bus for some heavenly air- or whatever and think you can go and continue to Dr. Dog, Delta Spirit, Emily Lacy October 30, Cafe Eleven conditioning and a fi rst-hand look at what life on the do that… I think [Jacksonville’s scene is] totally Reverend Horton Heat/Hank Williams III Nov. 1, Freebird road is like. If you’re curious, it’s cramped, but I’m nurturing.” Live, 246-2473 certain much more comfortable than how a lot of Winter echoes that sentiment. Jethro Tull Dec.11, Florida Theatre, 355-2787 touring musicians have it. As we relaxed in the back “It’s everything, you know,” he said. “I can’t of the bus, Key explained why staying in Jacksonville stress that enough. We wouldn’t be here if it weren’t Johnny Winter Dec. 14, Freebird Live, 246-2473 was never really an option. for people who basically convinced us that we were “We had to go to California,” he said. “Our good enough to make it.”

20 july 19-25, 2007 | entertaining u newspaper killswitch engage interview with Justin Foley BY KELLIE ABRAHAMSON [email protected] New England metalcore band Killswitch that for too long a period of time. Engage has been together for nearly a decade playing shows and paying their dues. Four EU: You guys have played all over the world. albums later, the band has risen to the top of Do you notice a difference in US audiences the genre. Their 2006 release As Daylight Dies compared to those overseas? received high praise from critics and opened JF: Not so much anymore. A while ago, yeah, at #32 on the Billboard Top 200. EU caught up the shows were a little crazier here, but now with drummer Justin Foley during the Warped everywhere is basically just as crazy. The Tour, where their high-energy live show has shows are just very, very cool everywhere we become an audience favorite. go. So, I’d say everywhere is basically the same thing, it’s very cool. EU: How did you guys get together? Justin Foley: Oh, [it’s been] forever. I don’t EU: Is there one particular band you always know, we just came together. We were in a try to see during the Warped Tour? bunch of bands and it just worked out. JF: The one I’ve watched the most is Coheed [& Cambria] so far, because I’m a fan and EU: Who writes most of the music? Chris [Pennie] is an unbelievable drummer, so JF: We all get together and do it. Sometimes it’s cool to watch him. one person has a song that they’ve pretty much finished. Sometimes everybody puts a bunch EU: What are you listening to right now? of stuff together so that everything has gone JF: It’s weird, I used to go in my bunk every through everybody by the time the song is to- night and put music on, but lately I’ve been tally done. going in and watching Office episodes every night…. So I’ve been listening to a lot of that EU: How do you think you guys have evolved and watching it, too. I haven’t listened to music over the years? in forever. It’s weird, I’m in a phase right now JF: I think we’ve thrown in a little bit more of just watching the episodes over and over. The the melody stuff that we’ve always wanted to whole bus is pretty hooked on it right now. do. We sort of figured out how to do that, I think. I don’t think we knew exactly how to do EU: What are you doing after the tour? that, then we sort of stumbled upon it and it JF: I think we have about a month off after this, seemed like a strong point in the band and we which will be pretty sweet, and then nothing is said, “Okay, cool.” We all liked that part, so we totally set, but it looks like were going to end tried to develop that as much as we can. That’s up going overseas for a little while because we kind of come out as something we do. haven’t been there in a long time. We haven’t been there since January, so we’ll probably EU: Which do you prefer most, touring or have to go over there. And then, after that, working in the studio? either the year will be over or we’ll have time JF: Well, playing shows is the most fun thing to sneak in a quick tour somewhere. Nothing is to do, but being on tour isn’t always the most totally set up yet. fun thing to do. It’s cool when you’re writing or recording because you’re around home, which Killswitch Engage will be with the Warped is a nice thing, but when you’re playing shows, Tour until the end of August. If you missed their that’s the biggest rush, so you have tour to set, thoroughly kick yourself and then be sure do that. Unless you just play a show at home to check out their latest album As Daylight Dies everyday, but you probably won’t be able to do in stores now.

eujacksonville.com | july 26-august 1, 2007 21 bringing it home album review

Artist: Bonerama Title: Bringing It Home

Billing themselves as “The Masters of New Orleans Brass Funk Rock,” Bonerama starts off their album, Bringing It Home, the way a funk album should start, with a live introduction ala James Brown. In fact, the entire album was recorded live at Tipitina’s Uptown in New Orleans, but it doesn’t have any of the pitfalls of a live recording. By the tone and texture of the recording, you’d think it was recorded in a studio if it weren’t for the muted applause between songs and the palpable live energy of this rock- ass band. Bonerama was formed in the late 80s by Mark Mullins and Craig Klein, who were in the horn section that backed up crooner Harry Connick Jr. Although there are fi ve trombones in this ballsy brass section, they also have a sousaphone player, keyboards, a funked up drummer and even a guitarist. Bringing It Home is brassy, bawdy, and overfl owing with funk, but it doesn’t leave the rock out. They cover Led Zeppelin’s ‘Ocean’ better than any rock band ever has. Not only does guitarist Bert Cotton hold up the Zep licks, but the incorporation of some funky brass really kicks this number up a hot degree. Although ‘Oceans’ and the other fi rst three tracks are instrumental, the band does get up on the mic in that casual, secondary way that jazz groups sometimes toss in a vocal. This album is a fun listen from the calloused hands of serious players that know their instruments. It rocks, it rolls, and it slides. Catch them live at MoJos Kitchen on Beach Blvd on August 3rd. - BY JON BOSWORTH

western xterminator album review

Artist: RTX Title: Western Xterminator Label: Drag City

First, a little history that might help you appreciate the offerings of RTX: The founding member of RTX is Jennifer Herrema, one-half of encyclopedic rock group Royal Trux. Along with her then-boyfriend Neil Hagerty, she helped start Drag City Records while using Royal Trux to explore and recreate a variety of distinctive rock n’ roll styles. For those of you interested in local rock trivia, Herrema has been known to play with drummer and visual artist Chris Pyle, son of Lynyrd Skynyrd drummer Artimus Pyle. Western Exterminator, the latest record from RTX, fi nds the band mired in the predominant hard rock sounds of 1985, which is not at all unusual for Herrema. Royal Trux were all about glorifying rock genres, and RTX certainly picks up where they left off. In fact, many of the songs on Western Xtermina- tor are so true to the past, that they would have ruled the stage at LA’s famed Whiskey a Go Go. The album begins with a strange ethnic dirge that in no way signals the rest of the album. Eventu- ally, the gentle sounds of the fi rst song fade out, and the crisp distorted guitar riff that follows it sets the real tone. Herrema’s voice is perfect for the hard rock that accompanies it. She has the vocal power and range required of a lead singer, while her unique whine fl avors the music with an attitude that doesn’t just reproduce 80s rock; it recreates it. That’s the real key to RTX’s charm. Even if you no longer enjoy hearing Ratt or the Crüe, you’ll appreciate how expertly RTX creates new music that actually sounds like it isn’t. This is not a cheesy cover band putting out an album of unwanted originals. They write good songs with good musicianship. It almost seems like they don’t realize it’s not 1985, but we know they must because they cover ‘Money will Roll Right In’ by Mudhoney. If you long for the attitude and style of those bygone days, then you’ll love what RTX has made. RTX picks up right where Royal Trux left off, not only in name but in spirit. - BY DONALD DUSINBERRE

22 july 26-august 1, 2007 | entertaining u newspaper “I just fell in love with the material, fell in love would be: fellow DA alumna and JU graduate Jaclyn with the script,” she says. “It’s something I can Hoffman and local journeyman Jennifer Gagnon. orpheus ascending in jax identify with—very message-based—and I think I Gagnon, herself no stranger to edgy fare, has turned can bring something to the play.” in several tour-de-force turns in such productions The company draws its name and inspiration as The Blue Room and Keely and Du. Director Jarvis from the classic Greek myth of Orpheus, the gifted was, needless to say, pleased. with edgy production musician and poet. Descending into the underworld “They just blew everybody away,” she says. to rescue his love, Eurydice, Orpheus fails to heed And, thanks to a lucky confl uence of marketing the admonition not to turn around to look at his love and audience hunger, the buzz has generated sub- as he leads her out of Hades. Fearful for her safety stantial interest. and no longer able to resist the need to know she is “Word of mouth has been just crazy,” Jarvis Closer opens this week safe, he turns round to check on her—and she van- says. “It’s just exploded on us. I won’t be surprised ishes forever. if we’re sold out for the entire run by opening night.” Jarvis thinks the name very apt, and feels it Now, with all elements in place, the cast and BY GREG LEUTE nicely articulates their mission and vision. creative team are ready to share their vision with the “The higher [Orpheus] climbs, the more fear- city’s theater faithful. Jarvis makes it a point to em- An oft-heard lament from many area theatergo- and attending in other regions of the country. In fact, ful he becomes,” she explains. ”We really liked the phasize that audiences who come will be treated to ers is that there’s little in the way of groundbreak- several recent efforts to introduce more provocative idea of not being scared, of moving forward and not some strong adult subject matter and language—but ing theater happening in the River City. Fortunately plays in the Jacksonville area have been met with looking back.” for those not troubled by the content, the perfor- though, a new theater company in town is deter- less than hearty acceptance from audiences who And thanks to successfully marketed cast- mances will prove very rewarding. mined to change all that, one edgy production at a complain about the departure from more conven- ing calls—or the Fates—the production’s eventual “If people are on board with that, then we time. tional fare. female leads showed up to give stunning auditions guarantee they’ll be blown away. It’ll be like nothing The Orpheus Theater Group is opening their “No theater company seemed committed to that left no question as to who the ultimate choices they’ve ever seen in Jacksonville.” run of Closer with a preview showing on July 19th at the kind of edgy, provocative productions we look The Body Gallery in Jacksonville Beach. The steamy forward to,” she says. “We really enjoyed the pro- drama, seen recently in its cinematic incarnation ductions we were involved with—avant-garde, off- with Julia Roberts, Jude Law, Clive Owen, and the-wall, grass-roots theater—and wondered what Natalie Portman, offers a window into the souls of a we could do locally that was similar.” quartet of haunted lovers who have the temerity and Adding fuel to the creative fl ames was local ac- misfortune to believe in love at fi rst sight- and who tor AJ Pratt (Coyote on a Fence, The Dead-Eye Boy), are doomed to keep looking. who had been trying unsuccessfully to interest local The company is the brainchild of Douglas companies in producing David Rabe’s Hurly Burly. Anderson School of the Arts alums Jennie Jarvis Talking up the prospect with Anderson, Pratt asked and Steve Anderson, who both recently returned to who he thought might be the ideal choice to direct. Northeast Florida after plying their craft profession- “And Steve pointed to me,” Jarvis recalls with ally in fi lm and theater: Jarvis on the West Coast a chuckle. and Anderson in the Dallas area. Traveling to San Though Jarvis thought the production far too Francisco with her husband, an artist with Industrial ambitious to mount at the time, the three were very Light and Magic, Jarvis worked on the casting of the excited about the prospect of sinking their chops second and third installments of the Matrix series, into something as substantial and challenging as as well as working as an independent producer on Hurly Burly. Freshly recharged with new energy and productions from California to Colorado. When the enthusiasm, they found that the biggest immediate changing tides, as well as work opportunities, took challenge before them lay in fi nding the right vehicle. her to Los Angeles, she continued working “as a di- And that’s when Closer popped up on the horizon. rector, script consultant, and acting teacher—pretty Though the fi lm version ran to checkered much anything I could to make ends meet,” she reviews, the play, Jarvis insists, is the sort of piece recalls. that lends itself well to judicious staging: the inti- Coming home to recharge her batteries, Jarvis macy is ideal for a small venue, and the complexly had a chance reunion with DA classmate Anderson, layered characters and gritty eroticism provide the sharing memories and war stories and bemoaning potential for some very immediate, electrifying the- the lack of theater they’d been used to working on ater.

eujacksonville.com | july 26-august 1, 2007 23 off a chain of events that can only end in heartbreak. If the plot sounds familiar to you, it’s probably culture & arts because you’ve seen the Academy Award-nominated fi lm version of the story starring Jude Law, Clive JULY Owen, Natalie Portman and Julia Roberts. Like the 26 “Cooking Demo II: Fall Into Fall With A New Kitchen” Laura stage show, the fi lm shocked and captivated audi- Street Gallery, Jax ences with its almost uncomfortably frank discus- 26- 27 Summer Adventure Camps MOSH, Jax sions about sex. Both versions of Marber’s tale of 26-28 “Bat Boy: The Musical” Players by the Sea, Jax Beach deception and intimacy earned approval from critics and a number of awards and nominations. It’s fi tting, 26-29 Contract: Death Murder Mystery Players , Jax Dave & Busters then, that this successful, yet still largely unknown 26-29 “Inherit The Wind” A Classic Theatre Limelight Theatre, play, would be the very fi rst production put on by the St. Augustine Orpheus Theater Group, who is committed to bring- 26-29 “Once Upon A Mattress” FCCJ South Campus, Jax ing edgy and provocative theater to Jacksonville. 26-AUG. 3 Summer Music Camp First Coast Community Closer is certainly both! Music School/FCCJ Jax Chances are, if you’ve seen the movie and enjoyed it, you’ll adore the stage production. The two 26-AUG. 10 Summer Teen Workshop Orange Park Community Theatre, Orange Park are extremely similar, in some scenes they are mirror images of one another. In fact, if you didn’t know the 27-AUG. 11 “Closer” Orpheus Theater Group Body Gallery of Jacksonville, Jax fi lm was based on Marber’s play, you may question which came fi rst. This show pulls no punches in the 26-AUG. 12 “Rather Strange Developments” Picasso, graphic language department and that can turn some Kandinsky & Mondrian Cummer Museum, Jax people off. It goes without saying that this show is 26-AUG. 17 “Go, Dog, Go!” Seaside Music Theatre, Daytona Beach for adults only, but it should also be noted that those 26-AUG. 19 “Snapshots” Seaside Music Theatre, Daytona Beach uncomfortable with open, explicit discussions about 26-AUG. 26 Impermanence: Recent Works By Andres sex and intimacy should probably fi nd another stage Michelena MOCA, Jax show to attend. I was a bit disappointed to see that the fa- 26-SEPT. 3 The Cabaret of St. Augustine-Spirits Community mously crass cybersex scene was omitted from this School of Performing Arts, St. closer production of , but the tremendous perfor- 26-SEPT.2 Tradition in Transition: Russian Icons in the Age of Closer mances more than make up for that minor loss. Even Romanovs Cummer Museum, Jax in the preview presentation that I attended, each ac- 26-SEPT. 2 Smokey Joe’s Café Alhambra Dinner Theatre, Jax Orpheus Theater Group review tor gave a great performance fi lled with raw emotion 26-SEPT. 4 Hurricanes III-Dora The Destroyer Exhibit Beaches and heart. Like a lot of “community theater” plays, Museum, Jax Beach consistency in the performances is lacking, particu- 26-OCT. 14 Dinosaurs & Ice Age Mammals MOSH, Jax BY KELLIE ABRAHAMSON [email protected] larly in the beginning. By the end, though, each actor comes into their own and shows undeniable talent 28 Open House Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary, Jax You can’t fault me for being skeptical about then that Anna meets Larry (Steven Anderson Jr.), and stage presence. AJ Pratt in particular truly owns 28 Trey Mcintyre Project UNF Fine Arts Center, Jax seeing a play in a tanning salon. I honestly thought a dermatologist who, in a cruel twist of fate, meets his character, who fi nds himself perhaps the most 28 Frog Frolic Adventure Landing, Jax Beach I had the wrong place when I drove over to 1360 the beautiful photographer after Dan plays a prank emotionally rattled of all by the end of the story. At 28 Comedian Nick Costanzo Shantytown Pub, Jax Beach Boulevard and saw one point Dan breaks down, sobbing over the loss of the woman he loves and Pratt’s performance is so 28 All Age Variety Show Regency Library, Jax that the address was for The Body Gallery. But, as good it’s almost diffi cult to watch. 28 Jacksonville Axemen Rugby League , Jax UNF Hodges Stadium it turned out, this is where And, what of my concerns about The Body 28 Art Adventures “Silver & Gold” Cummer Museum, Jax the Orpheus Theater Group Gallery acting as a venue? It turns out that my skep- ticism was all for naught. Once the lights dim and 29 Music For A Sunday Morning-Terrance Peters Unitarian is presenting their perfor- these talented performers take the stage, you forget Universalist Church, Jax mance of Closer from July th th you’re in a tanning salon. Heck, you forget you’re 29 Family Day Cummer Museum, Jax 27 through August 11 . I put on my “sure, this is watching a play. These four actors transport you to 30 “For the Love of Paiting” , Jax Laura Street Gallery normal” face and made my Marber’s world where you get an unfl inching look way inside to see exactly at the ups and downs of human relationships. It’s a powerful piece and one that this new theater group AUGUST what I was getting myself does a great deal of justice. 1 Summer Cinema “Y’Tu Mama Tambien” MOCA, Jax into. Closer is a play by The Orpheus Theater Group’s production of 1 The Fashionable Lunch-Lunch/Fashion Show Casa Monica, British writer/director/actor Closer can be seen at The Body Gallery on July 27th St. Augustine th rd th th th Patrick Marber about sex, and 28 and August 3 , 4 , 10 and 11 at 8 pm. 1 2nd Annual Art/Walk/Pet Walk Florida Theatre, Jax dishonesty and betrayal Tickets are $10 (cash only) and space is limited so arrive early or make reservations. For more informa- 1 First Wednesday Art Walk Various Venues Downtown, Jax among four people in con- temporary London. Dan tion call (904) 296-3292 or visit myspace.com/or- 1-FEB. 28 Oh Say Can You See: American Art Cummer Museum, Jax (played by AJ Pratt in the pheustheatergroup. 2 Regions Bank Artist Celebration-Jeanne Pelligreno Regions Orpheus production) is a , Orange Park Bank failed author who is making 2-19 “Peter Pan” Seaside Music Theatre, Daytona Beach ends-meet as an obituary 3 First Friday Art Walk Various Venues, St. Augustine writer. While heading to work one day, he meets and 3-25 Torch Song Trilogy First Coast Theatre Arts, Jax immediately falls for Alice 3-SEPT. 1 Exhibit Audrey M. Stultz “I’m Alive” Energy Lab Art (Jaclyn Hofmann), a young , St. Augustine Gallery American stripper who is 4 First Coast Pride Festival Sea Walk Pavilion, Jax Beach hit by a taxi while crossing 4 Tattoo Artists Art Show Bogda Art Gallery, Jax the street. The two begin a relationship that results in 4 First Annual White Party-Guys With Ties The Carling, Jax Dan writing a novel based 4 Tour de Pain The Landing, Jax on Alice’s life. While being 4 Jacksonville Axemen Rugby League UNF Hodges Stadium, Jax photographed to publicize 4-SEPT. 1 “Expected/Unexpected” Exhibit By Daryl Bunn Jane the book’s release, Dan meets Gray Gallery, Jax Anna (Jennifer Gagnon), a stunning photographer on him in a cybersex chat room. Anna and Larry who he is instantly attracted to. Anna rebuffs his fall in love, but Dan never leaves her thoughts. Four 5 Ken Hurley – Piano Unitarian Universalist Church, Jax advances but not before they share a passionate months later at Anna’s photo exhibition, the two kiss that haunts them both over the next year. It’s meet again, and begin an affair. The indiscretion sets

24 july 19-25, 2007 | entertaining u newspaper 6-10 Creativity Camp The Art Center Cooperative, Jax 8 Summer Cinema “An Inconvenient Truth” MOCA, Jax 9 Café Night Cummer Museum, Jax 9-11 KidzfACTory – “High School Musical” Limelight Theatre, St. Augustine

11 Art Social Community Art Party Karpeles Manuscript Museum, Jax 11-12 Intergalactic Bead & Jewelry Show Morocco Shrine, Jax 12 Library Night-Suns Baseball Baseball Grounds, Jax 12 Anne Mckennon-fl ute, Paul Phillips, Henson Markham Unitarian Universalist Church, Jax 13-17 Creativity Camp The Art Center Cooperative, Jax 14 FCCJ Artist Series “Thomas & Friends Live Performing Arts Center, Jax 15 Summer Cinema “The Notorious Bettie Page” MOCA, Jax 17-SEPT. 15 Exhibit: Jim Draper – “Produce” Stellers Gallery, Neptune Beach

18 Dog Days of Summer MOSH, Jax 18 Book Signing-Estelle Shrum “He is the Word” Barnes & Noble/Town Center, Jax 19 Summer Jazz Concert Series Sea Walk Pavilion, Jax Beach

PHOTO BY JOAN MARCUS 19 Craig Hall – Purcell & Bach Church of the Good Shepherd, Jax 19 Mark Williams-vocals, guitar Unitarian Universalist Church, Jax of the audience during intermission. 24 Toast to the Animals-Wine Tasting/Auction Florida Theatre, Jax In an informal survey I did after the show, most 25 ZOObilee , Jax people were not Monty Python fans and, in fact, did Zoo monty python’s not know anything about the fi lms, but they enjoyed 26 Andrew Bruck-violin Unitarian Universalist Church, Jax it nonetheless. This show is truly a lot of fun. It is a 26 Auditions for the Joyful Singers 12:30pm Unitarian high-class farce that includes some low class humor. Universalist Church, Jax This show has all different kinds of comedy, both vi- 26 Supper With The Spirits Old St. Augustine Village, St. Augustine sual and spoken, and I laughed as hard as I ever have 28-SEPT. 2 City of St. Augustine’s 442nd Birthday Celebration at a performance. Some of the humor is pretty dark. Various Venues, St. Augustine spamalot My favorite scene involved a cart full of dead people! 29 Audtions: FCCJ Repertory Dance Company 6pm Spamalot had an eighteen million-dollar advance FCCJ South Campus, Jax BY DICK KEREKES [email protected] sale in Las Vegas. The show has a seven-year lease The FCCJ Artist Series is bringing the 2005 Tony SEPTEMBER Award-winning musical, Spamalot to Jacksonville. 2 Auditions for the Joyful Singers 12:30pm Unitarian Tickets for the entire Broadway series are currently on Universalist Church, Jax sale and tickets for each individual show will be avail- 5 First Wednesday Art Walk Various Venues/Downtown, Jax able later this year. 5-OCT. 7 Steel Magnolia’s Alhambra Dinner Theatre, Jax On my recent trip to Las Vegas, I was fortunate 6-23 “Criminal Hearts” Limelight Theatre, St. Augusitne to see Spamalot at the Wynn Hotel and wanted to share what you can expect from this musical. 7 First Friday Art Walk Various Venues, St. Augustine First, let me give you a little background. Back 8 Delicious Destinations Benefi t Ponte Vedra Inn & Club, in l969, a young British comedy troupe had a TV Ponte Vedra series called Monty Python’s Flying Circus and they 13 Café Night Cummer Museum, Jax produced many fi lms, one of which is called Monty 14 Opening Reception: Coherent Structures by Carol Prusa MOCA, Jax Python and the Holy Grail. The Holy Grail has become a cult classic. 14-16 Southern Monster Truck Showdown Clay County The fi lm was re-conceived into a musical by Fairgrounds, Green Cove Springs Monty Python’s Eric Idle and the result was Spamalot. 14-JAN. 6 Sculptor: Minoru Ohira Exhibit MOCA, Jax He created this hilariously fun, live spectacle, which 16 Craig Hall – Brahms Church of the Good Shepherd, Jax tells the legendary story of King Arthur as he travels in 16 Intermezzo Concerts , Jax search of the Holy Grail with his Knights of the Round Main Library Table. They meet a host of strange characters along 22 Miracles in the Moonlight Gala Benefi t Hyatt Regency, Jax PHOTO BY JOAN MARCUS 22 21st Annual Rollin on the River Car Show The Landing, Jax 29 River City Showdown-FSU vs. Alabama Jax Stadium, Jax the way, including a killer rabbit, a legless knight, and expects to be around longer than that. With 35 buxom maidens, dancing divas and the Lady of the to 40 million visitors a year in that city, there should Lake. no problem fi lling the seats for six nights a week for OCTOBER Python fans will be glad to know that many of many years to come. When the show opened in Vegas 3 First Wednesday Art Walk Various Venues/Downtown, Jax the scenes from the movie are in the stage show, in April l, 2007, the ticket prices ranged from $49 to 4-6 First Coast Classic Dancesport Championship World Golf including the songs, ‘Knights of the Round Table’ and $99. They are currently at $75 to $l08. The prices for Village, St. Augustine ‘Brave Sir Robin.’ There are also many bright and the Jacksonville production will range from $27 to 4-7 Fall Home & Patio Show Prime Osborn Center, Jax clever songs, but you would never guess from titles $74 for individual tickets when they go on sale. You 4-7 Amelia Island Book Festival , Amelia Island such as ‘The Cow Song,’ ‘Run Away,’ ‘You Won’t can actually get a ticket for less than $25 if you pur- Various Venues Succeed on Broadway’ and ‘Burn Her.’ chase one of the fi ve Broadway show packages that 4-28 “Frankenstein” Limelight Theatre, St. Augustine The Las Vegas version was a fast-paced 90 are available right now. The Spamalot that is out on 5 First Friday Art Walk Various Venues, St. Augustine minutes, but you will be getting the two hours plus the road now is selling more than 95% of their tickets. 6 Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk Seawalk when FCCJ brings Spamalot to Jacksonville. Since all It promises to be just as popular in the North Florida Pavilion, Jax Beach the shows are in large hotels, with all sorts of diver- area. I laughed a lot at the fi rst time I saw Spamalot 6 6th Annual Charity Oktoberfest , St. Augustine sions, including gaming tables, slot machine, bars and it and I am looking forward to my second helping of World Golf Village restaurants, almost all musicals in Las Vegas are done the show thanks to the FCCJ Artist Series. For more 12-14 Les DeMerle Amelia Island Jazz Festival Various in one act. Producers found it is too easy to lose a lot information call 632-3373. Venues, Amelia Island

eujacksonville.com | july 19-25, 2007 25

THE up THAT name?), Michael Vick will be in Virginia, where he will be indicted for JOCK his part in this crazy dog-fi ghting ordeal we’ve heard so much about. There’s by tom weppel no question this situation is not going to go away, and it looks as if a trial will not start until next year. If Michael Vick Random thoughts from a cluttered mind... plays for the Falcons this season, he and his teammates will be subjected to every kind JAGUARS of harassment and scrutiny you can imagine, every This weekend is the beginning of Training single day for the rest of the season, whether by Camp for the Jacksonville Jaguars and all the other fans, media or other players. NFL teams. The Jaguars come into the season hav- That’s why Vick should seriously consider ing made changes in their coaching personnel AND taking a leave of absence this year. It would behoove their playing personnel. Falcons owner Arthur Blank to sit down with Vick Head Coach Jack Del Rio enters his fourth and NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell to play out the season with EIGHTEEN COACHES on his staff! Is that scenarios and explain the vast negatives and prob- ridiculous? Someone please tell me! Anyway, Del Rio abilities. Whether it’s anger or being made fun of, brought in former college coach Dirk Koetter from Vick will no doubt be under heavy pressure. But if he Arizona State to be the Offensive Coordinator. They were to lay low and not play, that scene would dissi- also now have former Alabama Head Coach Mike pate quickly. I’m sure Vick would not want this to be Shula to school the QB’s. With this roster, you’ll see the case. I’m sure Goodell and Blank feel the same. changes. Some guys left the team to sign elsewhere, Its possible Vick wasn’t even involved in the whole by Shaun Robbins including TE Kyle Brady, S Deon Grant, and P Chris dog-fi ghting operation. But the fact that he owned BEACHWISE Hanson. Also, veteran S Donovin Darius is gone, the property means he is attached, and there’s no having been released by the team. Meanwhile, the way he COULDN’T have known what was going on. Jaguars brought in free agents like OT Tany Pashos That in itself puts him right in the middle of the case. rip my shred stick was a success from the Ravens and WR Dennis Northcutt from the So, obviously Michael Vick has some tough dealings Browns. They also drafted Gator S Reggie Nelson, ahead of him, and the Falcons certainly won’t be the Strange things are said to happen on Friday the Rob Machado who will likely start. same team without a damn good QB on the fi eld. 13th, and this past one was true to form. St. Augustine While the team is solid, there are questions Beach pier was invaded by the “Rip My Shred Stick” left to be answered. Who is going to be starting GOLF event, sponsored by Hurley, in which kids 16 and un- at WR? Will it be Reggie Williams and Matt Jones, With Padraig Harrington winning the British der can surf on some of the top professional surfers’ or will we see Northcutt, Ernest Wilford, and even open last Sunday, we now have three guys who have actual surfboards while out in the water with the pros rookie Mike Walker take a lot of snaps? With TE beat Tiger Woods in the Majors, which I think is quite themselves. This event was truly something special, Brady gone, will we see production from last years’ surprising to most golf fans. and words on a page could never do it justice, but I will #1 pick, TE Marcedes Lewis? And of course, what It’s about time people realized that Tiger is surely try to give you a feel of what went on. are we going to see from QB Byron Leftwich? He is human and that there are golfers who indeed CAN With my brother and cousin in tow, we headed slated to return after being out for most of last sea- beat him. It seems people have expected Woods to down to the St. Augustine Beach pier promptly at 9 am, son, with David Garrard fi lling in for most of it. win EVERY tournament he plays, but that would be expecting to fi nd a fl at ocean, discouraged kids and On Defense in 2006, Jacksonville fi nished 2nd an impossible feat. Tiger hasn’t had a bad year, win- professional surfers with nothing to do, but boy was I overall in the NFL. However, they come in having lost ning three tournaments this year. He was competitive wrong. As we walked up to the beach, we saw a steady, both starting Safeties. That will be a major concern at The Masters and the U.S. Open. At the British, small wave consistently rolling in, a mass of kids and their parents fi lled with excitement and a group of for the team, and a lot will be expected of the rookie his shots were errant, causing problems he’d rather pros excited to get the kids out in the water and surfi ng. Nelson. Look for Gerald Sensabaugh to be the other not deal with. Even during Jack Nicklaus’ career On my way to the sign-in tent, I passed Asher Nolan heading out to the water, along with a plethora Safety. there were plenty of times in which he did NOT win of sponsor-clad boards just waiting to be ridden. A few minutes later, the unmistakable trademark fro So, it should be an interesting Training Camp a Major tournament, yet he is still considered one of of Rob Machado could be seen making its way down the boardwalk to the tent. Upon arriving, Rob was for sure, with a lot of questions that will need to be the best ever. Tiger needs to be viewed in the same met with a mob of happy fans eager to get an autograph or picture. Rob obliged his fans and signed and answered before the Jags start the regular season in terms, realizing that there are a host of very talented smiled for everyone before heading down to the water to help some of the younger kids catch some September. players who can beat him. waves. Making my way down to the water, I watched as energized kids carried and dragged the pros’ NFL Tom Weppel talks trash with Greg Larson, surfboards to the water. As the kids ventured away from the shore, they were met by smiling pros who While the Atlanta Falcons begin their Training Lonnie Marts, Eugene Chung, and Ron Duguay on seemed excited to help them catch some waves. Asher Nolan was in chest-deep water most of the time Camp this weekend in Flowery Branch (who made SportsAvengers.com 24/7. I saw him, pushing kid after kid into waves, making sure everyone was catching waves. Timmy Curren could be seen running through the water giving high fi ves to a kid he had just helped catch a wave. It was nothing less than amazing to see all of this taking place. I am truly glad that I had the op- portunity to experience this fi rst hand, and I’m also glad that Hurley is giving back to the community by putting on an event like this. Surely, a great number of kids will be touched by this generosity; I know my brother and cousin were. Hell, I was moved by it and I didn’t even get to surf! If the First Coast is fortu- nate enough to have “Rip My Shred Stick” come back next year, then make sure you make some time to check it out. Better yet, bring a kid, because this event is truly an amazing and humbling thing to be a part of and experience. FORECASTED CONDITIONS Last weekend brought a surprise swell that gave some fun surf to the area. This weekend looks like it might have some small ridable surf, but nothing signifi cant. I don’t foresee the week being any better than the weekend, so keep that longboard out and enjoy the summer surf in Florida. The tropics are still show- ing no sign of eruption as was predicted, giving us a very quiet hurricane season so far. Hopefully, we’ll get a little bit of something to develop that will just run up the coast and peter out in the North Atlantic without making landfall, but I wouldn’t count on it. Don’t take my weekly word for it, call or log onto your local report daily to fi nd out what the present conditions are for your favorite break.

26 july 26-august 1, 2007 | entertaining u newspaper nascar news & notes Could another team pick them up at their age when I’ve talked to him at Daytona before and he’s like so owners and sponsors want young drivers? We, the few drivers nowadays, “real people.” Kenny is the BY RICHARD TEAGUE [email protected] old fans, want to watch them drive. They are among kind of guy that would race at your local track and Yeah, I sure do wish I could get a day off like some of them do, so you need a backup. our favorites and they still have the ability. After all, then come over to your house for Sunday dinner. the Cup and the CTS drivers, but I have this editor Everybody asks me questions all the time, they have their teams in the top 35 in points and You’d just have fun being around him, and that’s (which is also one of my oldest friends) that says since I am such a NASCAR afi cionado (yeah, right), they make races. You see new and veteran drivers just what I feel after seeing him in NASCAR for so with the money he pays me, I write every week no so here’s a question I got for y’all: If I am a fan of a that can’t make a race, so where’s the problem with many years. Heck, when Little Debbie became his matter what. Gee, I’m glad they don’t race around driver, do I have to like the team owner or not? I like them getting another ride? Sterling has said that next sponsor, I loaded up on them even though I was on Christmas or New Year’s because I’d be writing then Reed, and I used to like Chip Ganassi, but when he year he was cutting back, but Joe fi gured on full- a diet. He’s their driver and I buy what he drives for! too, but that may not be too bad because I would let Sterling Marlin go…well, it didn’t sit right. So can time driving, and now he’s hoping just to fi nish the Now BAM Racing isn’t RCR or JGR, but it dang sure get paid double-time and a half (yeah, right). Even I still like Sorenson? Okay okay, here’s the real deal. season, let alone drive next year. I can see it now, ain’t Ginn either, ‘cause they know what an old guy with this weekend free of a NASCAR Nextel (soon All season I have been talking about Bobby Ginn “...and on the pole for the 2008 Daytona 500, ‘Front can do. Driving the wheels off is in his nature, as it is to be Sprint and formally Winston) Cup and the CTS and how he came to NASCAR with guns a-blazing Row’ Joe Nemechek in the #8 Budweiser car.” Man- with Marlin, Nemechek and several other drivers who running, there was a Busch race. I can’t use the term while doing everything top-notch, like getting Martin oh-man, would that be something! Dreams...aren’t still have a ride. “BuschWhacker” that much because this week’s to drive for him. Now Mr. Ginn has dumped TWO of they wonderful? Well I’m done for this week, and I hope my Busch Series race is soon to be something else, and my guys at once, so what should I do? Keep Mark, Let me talk about another “old driver,” Kenny editor is happy that he got his money’s worth and I wish it would be the AT&T, but I don’t think that’s or drop him from my list? I wonder what input Mark Schrader. He’s got a ride! Yes sir, he’s back and at y’all got to read another column of mine. Just one going to happen. had in all this, because Bobby said he talked to him BAM Racing in the #49 car, which is a long way more thing: ESPN is starting up their coverage of It seems that the Cup drivers really wanted about those guys and how to handle the money from the Skoal Bandit and light years away from the NASCAR and they plan to broadcast it to the free the time off because there weren’t nearly as many problems the team is having. #64 Sunny King Ford & Honda car. The year was world and parts unknown. They have 17 multimedia of the “BuschWhackers” racing on Saturday as Think about this: If Ginn and Martin are 1984 at Nashville Speedway, where he got started platforms, as they call it. I call it “ways to make there normally are, but there were still quite a few. conferring so much about the teams, does this mean in a fi eld of 30, qualifi ed 27th and fi nished 19th, his sure they take in enough money to pay everybody.” One “BuschWhacker” kept up the streak of winning that Mark Martin is much more involved with Ginn second best fi nish of 5 races that year. As they say, But whatever it is, it’s a bunch of avenues for these races. Reed Sorenson got his third career win Racing than he lets on? Could he have signed on “the rest is history,” with Schrader driving anything broadcasting a race. There’s regular TV and then in the Busch Series after a drought last year. He’s with Ginn as a silent partner or something? After all, and everything with wheels for the next 23 years. that high-defi nition stuff on many channels (along still lacking one in the Cup Series, but that should he is racing the way he has wanted to for so long, Kenny, as I have always called him, hasn’t got a with radio), but what’s cute is that they have it in change soon. I’ve liked him since he got started, and unlike his situation at Roush Racing. Mark’s son gazillion wins like some big name drivers. He only several languages, so plenty of foreign money can one reason is because he’s a Southern Boy born in Matt is also with Ginn racing. Did Roush not want to has four, to be exact, but he’s had his share of top- be exchanged to US dollars and put in their bank Georgia. He may not be one of my favorite drivers let him in? Martin is the Development Manager plus tens and he has been in the top fi ve at season’s end account. No biggie I guess, they got to get back (I have 4 or 5), but I keep him on standby because the main driver now, so he’s got the power because 3 times. something on their investment, don’t ya know? he’s young and a fan needs to look to the future. One Ginn was a land developer and entrepreneur until last When the Woods brothers move Bill Elliott into Y’all know where to reach me: tinynascars@ of your guys will eventually retire or step back, as year when he became a team owner. So was Martin his ride, I could maybe understand, but gee, it was yahoo.com, if’n you need to. And you also know that his ace-in-the-hole when it came to running several really a letdown for me. Schrader is a classic driver. If it ain’t NASCAR, It ain’t s**t! NASCAR teams? Was it Mark’s idea to let Joe and Looking For EU? Sterling go at mid-season, whereas most owners Now Available might have just waited until the end? Sure, Bobby Ginn said a few weeks back that At All Area Gate the team was having sponsor woes and needed Locations to do something, but he said his cars would carry the Ginn Resorts name on them. Then he decided to paint them black with no sponsors to show they’re looking for some. Now they’ve let Marlin and Nemechek go. Wasn’t it Ginn that said whatever Earnhardt Jr. wanted he would give him to join his team? Where was that money coming from? Talk about “silly season” at Ginn Racing, it’s more like having sex with a Disney character (you know... f**king Goofy!). Man, I know I’m going to get fi ned for saying that, but no problem- my editor will pay it. Go ahead, deduct some of my writer’s points, I got plenty. Will Joe and Sterling fi nd another ride or not?

eujacksonville.com | july 26-august 1, 2007 27