Archives for September 2012

Heavy Lies The Crown Pummels The Shrunken Head in Columbus

September 21, 2012 By Mike Ritchie Leave a Comment

Friday September 14 in an assuming cozy bar nesting on the West 5th Ave side of town, four bands played an intimate performance that shook the walls of the redrum, err red painted rooms. Though no blood was spilled there was plenty of gore and violence spewed/hollered/screamed/roared/screeched/squealed from the stage to accommodate the nights musical debauchery.

Columbus has an Esoteric Agenda or at least four long haired metal freaks do. Their name based on a documentary about symbolism and conspiracy in society and their agenda was to open up the Sinister Elixir and play the loudest, most evil sounding technical death metal this side of the northern state. When your singer looks like kin to Testaments Chuck Billy and George ‘Corpse Grinder’ Fisher from Cannibal Corpse there’s really only one kind of music you can get away with playing. Singer Nick Larry inhabited the ‘very’ tight claustrophobia friendly stage making good use of the self brought strobe light. Hurling out straight jacket excitement from the deepest darkest corner of the insane asylum contorting into all forms of menacing screeching facial beasts unleashing the chained up tortured soul within. His head bouncing and twisting as if awoken in a Jigsaw booby trap. The surrounding music gave praise to all that could be used in a ‘Hostel’ environment. A dual guitar audio onslaught free for all of airborne torture utensils and resulting noise splatter. Fourth of six decibel shredders was The Mechamortal Eradicator about bringing an Assassin back to life with robotic limbs, for those that like their robotic synthetic engineering with a few pounds of flying flesh. Illuminating the Dogmatic Index can be heard on their Facebook page along with video updates and a live performance presumably in someone’s hard-core basement.

Now for something completely different as Dayton’s power trio Ex Luna Ut Terra (From Moon to Earth) set up shop opening with Death Stumbles Drunk on Its Way (we’ve all been there on a weekend night or two). An audible tribute to the basement sound of early 90‘s black metal, fitting given the singer/guitarist resembles Dimmu Borgir’s Galder minus the corpse paint of course. Their music can be described as black metal fused with psychedelic experimentation. Black metal meets Opeth with groove, Black Sabbath breakdowns with some slow carefully placed tranquility edged with a trippy 60’s feel. Mikael Akerfeldt would be proud. The slow stirring growling candlelight vigil with a bite feel of Soaring Above Moonlit Clouds followed by Last Sunset Seen Through These Eyes finished a uniquely cerebral set.

The second of a double dose of Dayton’s best, Lysura came on performing their debut set and show as a functioning band. Yet another musical project/incarnation of skins smashing madman Eric ‘Hammering Hobbit’ Barnes who has no less than five active bands going at any given time. Melodic Black/Death metal featuring former members of Acheron and Beneath Oblivion. Their set featured two Facebook tunes the underground echo bass line opening of Fusion Script and A Human Portrait not to be confused with King Diamonds Fatal Portrait complete with its monster crunching Sabbath tidal wave riff s accompanied by evil screeching vocals from hell’s underground. They brought out the darker side of what Opeth might sound like minus the slower parts if they were black metal inclined. Quite fitting in that screecher Max Otworth resembles a cross breed of a young Tony Iommi and Mr. Akerfeldt.

Now that we got all the nice family friendly metal out of the way its time to break out the animal decapitator and do some good ole fashion swine chasin’ as Indianapolis death metal flesh churners Heavy Lies The Crown break out a slaughter house wake up symphony that would put fear into any healthy livestock worldwide. Incorporating the very genre specific vocal style sounding like your hearing the last moments of Wilbur’s life. With 1000 beats a minute, carnivore munching guitars and a dinner bell clanging bass this is the kind of dirt road backwoods noise used to torture terrorists with. Definitely not for light hearted folk but if your familiar and/or love bands like Suffocation, Cannibal Corpse or enjoy farmhouse documentaries this might be heaven on CD.

Dayton Most Metro + Liftoff Entertainment + Bud Light = Mobile Photo Booth Fun!

September 21, 2012 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

A new partnership between Liftoff Entertainment and Dayton Most Metro is making memories on the move at many upcoming Dayton community events with the addition of a Mobile Photo Booth, Liftoff’s newest product.

Liftoff Entertainment was started in early 2010 by Jay Nigro, a Dayton transplant originally from St. Louis, as a Disc Jockey company. A year later, Liftoff expanded with an Open Air Photo Booth. The Liftoff Photo Booth debuted at Urban Nights in the spring of 2011 and has been a hit at over 90 events since its launch.

Along with the addition of a second photo booth, Liftoff has launched a new backpack style photo booth, named the Liftoff Mobile Booth in 2012. The Mobile Booth has been compared to a combination of a Kings Island Photographer and Inspector Gadget. A Liftoff Entertainment staff member wears an army style backpack frame which has an IPad attached to the front. The photographer captures a photo which a guest can then preview moments later. The Liftoff Mobile Booth completed a successful test run at the Downtown Revival this past month and thanks to Dayton Most Metro and Bud Light, the Liftoff Mobile Booth will be making appearances at local events throughout Dayton in the next couple of months. The DMM/Liftoff Mobile Booth (presented by Bud Light) with make its official debut at the Oktoberfest Preview Party this Friday at the Dayton Art institute. Photos will be posted shortly after the event on Dayton Most Metro’s Facebook page. PLUS – we’ll be doing a contest with these pictures taken tonight, with the winner getting a gift certificate to Olive, An Urban Dive! So make sure you get YOUR pic taken!

Gourd-geous Beers: Pumpkin Brews

September 20, 2012 By Max Spang Leave a Comment

I love Autumn. I think most people from this part of the country really appreciate this part of the year. I mean, what’s not to love? Everything turns beautiful, the air smells better, you get to wear comfortable clothes combinations (sweatshirt and shorts, anyone?), and perhaps most importantly you get to drink all the amazing seasonal beers that hit the shelves. One of the most flavorful, intriguing, and often misunderstood styles that pops up this time of year is the Pumpkin Ale. To some, the idea of a pumpkin-flavored beer is a complete turn off. To others (like me), we mark our calendars for pumpkin beer season.

A Brief History

At first, it may sound like a pretty odd concept; of all the ingredients out there, why are so many beers made with pumpkin? Believe it or not, pumpkin in beer in America has a very long history. Back in “the day”, it was hard to find malted barley which is generally the most common grain used in today’s beer. Pumpkin, on the other hand, was in abundance and pretty easy to grow. They found out that they could swap out a lot of the barley with things like pumpkin, molasses, sweet potatoes, and squash to produce the sugars needed to make beer. Let’s face it, beers made with crazy ingredients is better than no beer at all – especially considering beer was actually safer to drink than the water at the time. These beers were designed to extract sugar (and therefore alcohol) from pumpkin rather than flavor, so as time went on and malted barley was easier to come by pumpkin was used less and less. Today’s pumpkin beers bear very little resemblance to the more rustic colonial pumpkin beers in that they focus more on pumpkin pie and spice flavors. Many of today’s pumpkin ales are described as “pumpkin pie in a glass”. Mmmm, thirsty yet?

Commercial Examples

There’s a lot of pumpkin beers out there right now. In fact, it seems like every craft brewer out there has a seasonal pumpkin ale nowadays. To be perfectly frank, most pumpkin beers are somewhere between “blech” and “meh”, so how do you know a good one from a bad one? Here’s a few recommendations I have for a starting point to the world of pumpkin beers:

Southern Tier – Pumking

Very few beers have a reputation like Pumking. Some love it, some hate it. It is, however, one of the top rated pumpkin beers according to both Beer Advocate and Rate Beer. This beer is a unique experience from the moment you pop off the cap as it fills the room with the aroma of freshly baked pumpkin pie. The taste is the closest thing you will find outside of NASA to being able to drink pumpkin pie – right down to the crust and whipped cream topping. It’s completely over-the-top and unapologetic in it’s huge flavor. Keep an open mind when trying this beer (don’t think beer, think pumpkin pie), and you will be rewarded with a truly unique experience. At 8.6% ABV, you might want to split this beer with two or three friends. Fans of this beer, keep your eyes peeled for the Oak Aged version.

Rivertown Brewing – Pumpkin Ale

This beer only clocks in at 5% ABV, but it feels like a big dessert beer. The thing that separates this beer from other pumpkin ales is the huge amount of sweet vanilla, molasses, cinnamon, and nutmeg flavors and aromas. Even with all of this complexity, this beer drinks very easily. Plus, it’s brewed right here in Ohio!

Dogfish Head – Punkin’

This beer may be one of the most popular pumpkin ales on the market, and for good reason. While other pumpkin beers are sometimes on the extreme side of things, Punkin’ actually tastes like beer. A full-bodied beer with a lot of spice character, but beer nonetheless. Nutmeg and brown sugar shine through, yet the beer is remarkably far from being too sweet.

The brewery recommends pairing this beer with turkey, roasted duck, lamb, stuffing, dessert dumplings, and sharp cheddar – in other words, grab a 4-pack while you can (it sells out fast!) and save it until Thanksgiving. You’ll be rewarded with a beer that drinks well during dinner and dessert.

The Bruery – Autumn Maple

Ok, so this beer isn’t technically a pumpkin beer since the brewery uses yams instead of pumpkin, but bear with me here! This beer is extremely complex, and at 10.5% it’s the biggest beer in this list. This beer is great for those who enjoy Belgian-style ales. The beer has notes of dark fruits, spices, buttered yams, pecans, and oddly enough pumpkin! The beer features cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, vanilla, molasses, and maple syrup. The Belgian yeast strain adds notes of clove and coriander (neither of which are actually in the beer). A word of caution – this beer almost demands to be shared. Even as tasty as it is, it can be a daunting challenge to finish a bottle to yourself.

Sam Adams – Fat Jack

This is the first year that Fat Jack has been released, and I would be more than happy to see this beer come around every year. Perhaps the least “pumpkiny” beer on this list, Fat Jack showcases deep flavors of roasty malt, brown sugar, caramel, light cinnamon and nutmeg, noble hops, and just a hint of smoke. This one is definitely on the sweet side of things, but it would also be a fine accompaniment to savory fall dishes like buttery squash. The large format bottle and higher alcohol content (8.6% ABV) make this beer a great candidate for sharing.

So there you have it, pumpkin beers! Pumpkin brews sort of have a cult following among beer geeks. They aren’t for everyone, but if you have never had a pumpkin beer then give them a shot. Remember, it’s not important that you like every beer you try. What’s most important is the willingness to try new beers.

Thank God It’s Funky – Ruckus Roboticus

September 20, 2012 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

The guy behind the Roboticus – Dan Haug

The technology age that we are living now is well beyond our wildest dreams. Seriously-think about it. Vinyl gave way to cassette tapes. The cassettes then stepped aside to give CDs their day in the sun. Now, downloading music from the internet is the current craze. Music also experiences changes. Elvis shake, rattled, and rolled to become the king of rock and roll. The 70s paved John Travolta to become a mega superstar. The 90s was the grunge era. Currently, electronic dance music is starting to put its footprint on the music scene.

Deadmau5, and Skillrex have become extremely popular as the electronic dance movement has started picking up speed. Top 40 artists and producers are including the up-tempo vibe, and drum beats DJs are creating. Also, seeing an EDM show is simply stunning these days, with the light and sound shows being produced. The quickness you can download it, and the amount of music you can get online just makes things easier for DJs to set up their sets.

Locally, we have a crop of DJs that have honed on the skill of dubbing music together and mixing drum sounds with it. One DJ that is currently making some noise is Dan Haug. In case you don’t recognize that name, you probably know him as Ruckus Roboticus. Tonight (September 20, 2012), Roboticus is going to be releasing his newest single and video for the song ‘T.G.I.F. (Thank God It’s Funky) at One Eyed Jacks in Fairborn, Ohio. With the release, Roboticus will also be performing all night with another local DJ Jay Madewell. Both plan on bringing the dance jams all night for the patrons that visit the intimate establishment.

‘I started DJ-ing in 1998’, Haug told me during a phone conversation. ‘I started to discover electronic music, rap music, and I wanted to make stuff.’ Haug saved up money to buy a turntable, and started to work on his craft. By bringing in old school rap from the rap pioneers N.W.A. and Run DMC, he slowly started to bring his touch on DJ-ing. He went to parties, dancehalls, and clubs to perform. He would practice with friends hanging around.

The practice started to pay off as Haug started to get work outside of town. Some of his work includes remixing with bands Bloc Party, and Vampire Weekend, game developer Rockstar Games, and car company Scion. He’s done shows on stage with other acts like DJ Jazzy Jeff. In 2008, he released his first album, Playing with Scratches. All this praise and good fortune hasn’t got to Haug’s head, he says. ‘It’s great that I have gotten to where I am, but I know that I need to keep getting better. I don’t want it to ever to get to my head. It’s not me.’

Currently, Haug is working on his next album, Phantom of the Disco. Disco will be a concept album, telling the story of a dark and mysterious man. ‘The album will talk about the nightlife and clubs at night’, Haug explained. ‘It talks about shady people. Greedy people who are in these clubs just for the money. The phantom steals from the show, brings the love of music to them.’ There isn’t a
release date yet for the album. Haug will be doing a few shows around the area, and then pack up and move to Los Angeles in the middle of October. ‘I have been thinking of moving to Los Angeles for the last couple of years’, explained Haug. ‘There’s a lot of great things happening there for DJs, and I feel that it would be great to move there, get some great experience, and network.’ Haug then told me that he still will have family here in town, and he will coming to visit.

One Eyed Jacks in Fairborn, Ohio will be generating a lot of people getting their dance on with old school rap and electronic dance beats and also celebrating the single release of Ruckus Roboticus new song, ‘T.G.I.F. (Thank God It’s Funky) at 9pm. The video for the song is also being shown at the show, starting at 9:30pm. Also, Roboticus will be performing at the Trolley Stop on October 6^th, as he will be part of the 2012 Dayton Music Fest.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X4ywnAyn3aA’]

PARK(ing) Day 2012 – Dayton Edition

September 20, 2012 By Dayton Most Metro 1 Comment

A much better use of a parking space...

In cities around the globe today, artists, activists and citizens will temporarily transform metered parking spaces into public parks and other social spaces, as part of an annual event called “PARK(ing) Day.”

Originally invented in 2005 by Rebar, a San Francisco-based art and design studio, PARK(ing) Daychallenges people to rethink the way streets are used and reinforces the need for broad-based changes to urban infrastructure. “In urban centers around the world, inexpensive curbside parking results in increased traffic, wasted fuel and more pollution,” says Rebar’s Matthew Passmore. “The planning strategies that generated these conditions are not sustainable, nor do they promote a healthy, vibrant human habitat. PARK(ing) Day is about re-imagining the possibilities of the urban landscape.”

This year Garden Station‘s Project Manager, Lisa Helm, has has coordinated several local organizations to sponsor parks. The Main Branch of the Dayton Metro Library is sponsoring a park in front of the library on St Clair. Garden Station is sponsoring a park in front of Blind Bob’s in the Oregon District, and City Hall is sponsoring a park on Ludlow Street. MetroParks is loaning plants for the day and Green Velvet Sod Farms has donated sod, which will end up at Garden Station. The Oregon District PARK(ing) Day park will have programming throughout the day including kids activities, yoga class and concerts. This is the fourth year Dayton will participate in the event.

Since 2005, the project has blossomed into a worldwide grassroots movement: PARK(ing) Day 2011 included 975 “PARK” installations in more than 160 cities in 35 countries on six continents. This year, the project continues to expand to urban centers across the globe. PARK(ing) Day is an “open-source” user-generated invention created by independent groups around the globe who adapt the project to champion creative, social or political causes that are relevant to their local urban conditions. More information regarding local PARK(ing) Day activities can be found on Facebook and a global map of all participating cities are available on the PARK(ing) Day website.

(submitted by Garden Station)

Punching It Up

September 20, 2012 By Brian Petro Leave a Comment

Hello fancy!

Our cocktail history is a long and rich one. Starting with the Pilgrims stopping at Plymouth Rock because they were out of beer, up to the current rise of the craft cocktails, we have seen a little bit of everything. One of the longest runs in our cocktail history is one that for the most part has been forgotten, other than remnants of them in some of the cocktails we enjoy today. It was present up right to the end of the 19^th century, encouraging people to gather around and spend a few hours with each other, ladling out glasses of potent liquid to cool off in the hot summer months, and to warm up in the cold winter months. The punch was a staple of the growing United States, being present at every bar and gathering in the country, and for some very good reasons.

Punches originated in India, where the British were stationed with little access to the good alcohols they enjoyed at home. And the British sailors did not like to be separated from their ration of one gallon of beer a day. Or a half pint of rum, whichever they preferred. One of the origin stories for why they called it “punch” was a slant on the Indian word panch (five), the number of ingredients the punch was supposed to have. The drink was created with alcohol, lemon, sugar, water, and tea or other native spices. The alcohol became whatever was handy at the time. It began with wine, but rum, brandy, and whiskey punches were also popular in the various areas of the British Empire. It was so popular that a special bowl was even created for it, called a Monteith Bowl. It had a scalloped edge, which eventually became removable, where a ladle could be kept or the stems of wine glasses could be held.

It spread with the empire. Rum houses sprang up all over the United States and Caribbean islands. The earliest recorded punch in the New World is the Bajan (Barbadian) Rum Punch. It was so popular it even had its own rhyme for a recipe: One of sour, two of sweet, three of strong, four of weak. One part lime juice, two parts sweetener (usually sugar), three parts rum, and four parts water. Local spices were also added to the mix, recreating the five part panch. As the drink spread through the country, regional variances changed the flavors, and in some case the potency, of the tipple. The Schyulkill Fishing Company created the most famous variation, known as the Fish House Punch. Possibly for the gentlemen there to enjoy, possibly something lighter for the ladies to enjoy at a Christmas Party in 1848. Punches of all varieties became a staple of dinners, of meetings, of daily life in the young country. At one dinner in 1785, the host reported that sixty-eight people went through forty-four bowls of punch, as well as eighteen bottles of wine and a large quantity of other rums and brandy. Rum was the staple liquor in the colonies, and in many punches, since it was readily available and cheap. The cheapness of the rum was another reason punches were so popular; in the 18^th century, rum was still in its infancy. It was awful. The additional flavors and water added to the punch helped to hide the awfulness of the cheap and nearly raw spirit.

Monteith bowls never go out of style.

Punches started to fall out of favor just before the Civil War. Punches were something to be consumed by a group of people over several hours, and we were starting to roll out across the country. Railroads were being built, gold was being discovered, and acres of land were out there for the taking. This was a growing country, and this was no time to sit and drink. There were more options for drinks as well, and people were looking for something more individualized. They did not want to all have to drink the same thing. They lasted until the beginning of the 20^th century as a curiosity, something of a cocktail throwback. They were pushed to the back of recipe books in favor of collins, cobblers, and sours, many of which owe their existence to the recipe of punch. Some of the first tiki style drinks from the 1950’s were also based off of punch recipes. Since then, punch’s non-alcoholic form (which was always around, just not as popular) became a staple at kids’ parties for the same reason it was a staple at dinners; it brings people together around a communal place to drink something refreshing in a social setting.

Punches are still a great way to present something to your guests at a party so they can serve themselves. They can be prepared in advance, and you can make them to taste, taking into consideration the time of year you are serving them. Right now, a nice apple cider punch or something with fall spices like cinnamon and nutmeg would be delightful. September 20^th is National Punch and Rum Punch Day. Gather some friends together, stir together one part sour, two parts sweet, three parts strong and four parts weak, add a few spices to taste, and enjoy an evening around a fire. Cheers!

Barbadian Punch

1 cup lime juice
2 cups simple syrup (Heat one cup of water, then add a cup of sugar. Mix until dissolved, allow to cool)
3 cups of rum
4 cups of water
A few dashes of Angostura bitters
Nutmeg to taste

Stir all of the ingredients into a pitcher or bowl. Ladle into individual cups over ice, add nutmeg to taste.

Philadelphia Fish House Punch

1 cup sugar
3 1/2 cups water
1 1/2 cups fresh lemon juice
1 (750-ml) bottle Jamaican amber rum
12 oz Cognac (1 1/2 cups)
2 oz peach brandy (1/4 cup)

In a large bowl, stir the sugar into the water until the sugar is dissolved. Then mix in the lemon juice, rum, cognac, and brandy. Put the mixture into the refrigerator for three to four hours until chilled. Serve over a large block of ice for the sake of tradition, or in cups with ice in them. Garnish with wheels of lemon. If you deem this as too strong when tasting it, add more water or black tea.

(Recipe via Epicurious)

Lots to See at Blind Bob’s

September 20, 2012 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

The Italian Burger

Tucked into the Oregon District is a pub with personality called Blind Bob’s. Cheap drink specials and a unique spin on food has locals becoming loyal regulars. The Big Ragu first heard of Blind Bob’s through word of mouth, all of which was good. We were lucky to visit the eatery for a DaytonMostMetro.com Happy Hour event in late summer. On our next Food Adventure to Blind Bob’s, we ate dinner with Heater from the Dayton Dragon’s. You never know who or what you are going to see at Blind Bob’s.

You want unique? How about a cream of pickle soup that is one of their most popular items? It is sweet, creamy and will leave you wanting more. Also addicting is the Hummus and Pita Chips appetizer. You can’t go wrong with homemade pita chips and creamy hummus.

Pickle Soup – This is a must eat !

Blind Bob’s burgers are top notch, with specialty choices like the Italian Burger which is a half-pound patty, stuffed with provolone, basil, and green peppers. It is then topped with marinara and caramelized onions. Is your mouth watering yet? The burger was juicy and the toppings were amazing. Another specialty sandwich we would highly recommend is the Crabby Patty which includes a handmade crabcake on a bun. It is topped with sauteed onions, peppers, and provolone cheese, smothered in herbed aioli. It will have your taste buds rocking and rolling.

Other great menu items worth a try are the Ultimate Falafel Wrap and the Grilled Peanut Butter & Jelly Sandwich. Actually, they call the choices “sammiches” on the menu. You know it tastes good with a name like sammich. We were pleasantly surprised and “blindsided” by the superb menu that quenched our Food Adventure appetite.

Just a buck on Monday nights – Mickey’s 16oz

Drink specials?.. Yeah they have those. Everyday prices are $2 Miller High Life and $1.50 Pabst Blue Ribbon beers. On Monday’s the Mickey’s 16 ounce cans are only a buck! Happy Hour at Blind Bob’s means $2.50 well drinks and 75 cents off all bourbon. They have an eclectic selection of a few drafts, one of which Big Ragu loved called Leinenkugel’s Lemon Berry Shandy. It was refreshing and fruity, so The Big Ragu checked his man card at the door and ordered another. We also enjoyed a bottle of “Hop Baron.”

But there is more to see at Blind Bob’s. Their website calendar is packed with trivia nights, karaoke, open mic nights and live bands. The historic building lends itself to the charismatic appeal of this locally owned eatery. Blind Bob’s is definitely a great place to grab dinner and an adult beverage. With a fun atmosphere inside and the Oregon District right outside, this place is a blast. So, next time you are wanting something different for a bite and a drink, ask yourself: “What about Bob’s?”

Have you been to Blind Bob’s? Please comment below and tell us what you thought of this Dayton pub.

Are you a Facebooker? “Like” Food Adventures HERE !

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Scale The Summit At The Spitfire Lounge

September 19, 2012 By Mike Ritchie 1 Comment

It’s been said that music is the universal language, transcending the spoken word and communication not just on an audible level but conveying emotion, unspoken thoughts, messages and conjuring images and pictures without a single utterance. Saturday night September 15th at The Spitfire in Vandalia Winding Hollow Productions presented four bands that played the stage to an appreciative crowd with nary a word spoken and all performances were instrumental to the nights supreme musicianship.

Dayton’s very unique bass and drums two man band Shadows In The Hour Glass started the evening proving a great band doesn’t need shredding guitars or vocals to create a powerful sound. Illusions of Serenity opened with its creepy, eerie ambiance making you feel like your walking down a long dark tunnel and you suddenly feel like something’s behind you. Four string finger player Zack Ryan and skins striker Travis Abling display intricate knowledge and proficiency creating dark, deep malevolent musical stories with Ryan’s bass as the main character and Ablings beats as the surrounding plot. The frantic playing gives chase to images of feeling lost or being chased in trippy movie sequences. He creates suspense, melancholy, apprehension, fear and caution playing the strings at walking, running, sprinting speed with Chuck Schuldiner technical prowess. He can also make it gurgle as the atmospheric fog rolls in. When someone hears the term ‘band’ its widely assumed there are at least three instruments involved but Shadows prove that so much can be done with only a duo of sound. The hourglass of time runs waiting for no one while the shadows of people slowly start to fade as time runs away. Shadows was originally a side project by Covered in Scars bassist Ryan and C.I.S. drummer Abling but has become its own identity with elements of technical death metal, jazz and classical with a darker more sinister edge.

Dayton’s next experimentation into noise and sound I Died Trying was ironically the only group that did ‘have something to say’. Between the screaming hidden yells from the darkness of drummer Bret Newland and the frantic yelling/auctioneer-esque lyrics spitting of guitarist Tony Goff I’m not sure what all was said but the music and pure performance of the show did all the talking. I.D.T. is a uniquely distinguished select taste of heavy music, constant tempo changes, audio samples and any and all types of guitar shredding, chopping, hammering, tweaking techniques. Kind of like watching a multiple car wreck in slow motion. Think Dillinger Escape Plan meets Cattle Decapitation with some Slipknot turn table effects. Imagine hearing all emotions and thoughts from the mind of a schizophrenic at P.A.volume. They attack your brain like a drug. Even though Goff took to the floor to sing a few number it’s not all in your face pandemonium.There’s tastes of Opeth and Godflesh to keep the variety factor interesting. The music is tough, angry, artistic and violent which is good considering Goff has a passing resemblance to MMA fighter Keith Jardine. I Died Trying is a musical hangover that keeps the ears ringing but keeps you out of the bathroom.

It’s a pretty universally regarded given that everyone likes great sax. Well Greensboro North Carolina’s Trioscapes are no different. In fact Walter Fancourt excels at it. Playing in the three man bass, drums, saxophone ‘trio’ they bring an incredibly different, catchy ‘rock’ feel to instruments usually regarded as in the background or more ‘laid back’. They Blast Off and for those who think of the slow, moody, sexy sound ,made popular in numerous mob movies Fancourt’s sound includes that, for a collective minute or two anyway. For the rest of the performance he treats the sleek brass piece like a lead guitar shredding the keys/pedals taking the instrument to its very physical limits. When Adophe Sax invented it in 1846 he wanted to create the most powerful single reed playing instrument there was. Fancourt has taken that vision to the literal pipe blowing edge with his own furious heavy style. With neck muscles bulging he summoned the air from the Woodwind Gods above and played a speed metal version of The Pink Panther theme…. for 30 minutes. Fancourts lip piercing pursuits speeds up, slows down, breathes out some sexy seduction, solos, bends notes, and makes it shriek, scream, wail, caress and cuss. This is classy ballroom/ smokey cocktail lounge music brought into the rock arena. He takes you on a mile a minute saxy conversation then puts you on a rainy street round midnight filled with smog and broken dreams. I’m pretty sure sax’s don’t have toggle switches but he’s found a way to create one. Bassist Dan Briggs thumped his way through the set creating deep Opeth on the Moore imagery. Drummer Matt Lynch kept the pace with perfect time and precession. Not every drummer has the challenge to ‘keep up’ with the sax player. Of the four songs played they closed with ‘their’ version of an Mahavishnu Orchestra song called Celestial Terrestria Commuters.

For those that remember the PBS show The Joy of Painting With Bob Ross know that with each painting it was just him, the paint and the story of what he creates. Houston’s Scale The Summit draw similar comparison. Their unique brand of instrumental rock leaves no room or need for words and they let the music tell the story and take us along for the ride. They deliver strong driving songs weaving long intricate stories. Chris Letchford and Travis Levrier play cascading chords creating lush, vast musical landscapes with scenic soloing. Bassist Mark Michell gives the moody depth and weight holding down the structure while Pat Skeffington pounds out the backbone keeping the story going. Many influences can be heard when it’s just the music. The prog sound of Opeth, unique catch of Tool, wizardry of Steve Vai with the technical style of Death all mixed in weaving and intertwined into their own musical novel style. They create atmosphere, space and time with narrative and hundreds of notes but each is part of the whole plot.

Tonight proved without a doubt that music is indeed the universal language no matter how light, heavy, complex or simple. When you have people in Iced Earth/Tool shirts rocking out to a guy playing saxophone you know you have an audience that’s open minded and appreciates great musicianship and delivery.

Coming Up in Cincinnati Theatre: Sept. 17-23

September 19, 2012 By Rob Bucher Leave a Comment

…BLINK AND YOU’LL MISS

THE CHRONICLE

Know Theatre Cincinnati’s Fall Fringe Festival

The Story: Lives deconstructed. Because we care. OTRimprov is proud to once again present their flagship production. Inspired by one of the most popular shows to emerge from the Chicago improv scene, THE CHRONICLE is OTRimprov’s take on the Armando Diaz Experience, where a special guest shares personal stories that weave into scenes inspired by the monologues. OTRi will once again tap Fringe artists as their storytellers for this encore production where we do whatever the hell we want with other people’s lives.
The Dates: Sept. 19, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Know Theatre Cincinnati | BTC page |

OCCUPY THIS!

Know Theatre Cincinnati’s Fall Fringe Festival

The Story: Comedic Storyteller “Reverend Nuge” went to Occupy Wall Street and Occupy Detroit just to carry funny signs. But a funny thing happened on the way to the Revolution – he started to believe in it. The next thing you know he’s camping with crack addicts, marching with anarchists, burying a friend and writing this show.
The Dates: Sept. 20 & 22, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Know Theatre Cincinnati | BTC page |

ON HER PILLOW

Know Theatre Cincinnati’s Fall Fringe Festival

The Story: In 1977 it was cool to be a multi-racial family if you lived in San Francisco, or New York…but we lived in Addyston, Oh. Not cool…and NOT O.K. Then my parents gave me the name Honour Pillow because I wasn’t going to stand out enough as the only curly headed, biracial giant at my school. Now I was a curly headed, biracial giant named Honour Pillow. Geesh. No ordinary life could follow this beginning. I would become a Model in New York, a Comedienne in Chicago, and a Cancer Patient in Las Vegas. Being biracial was the least of my worries.
The Dates: Sept. 19 & 21, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Know Theatre Cincinnati | BTC page |

THE SCREW YOU REVUE

Know Theatre Cincinnati’s Fall Fringe Festival

The Story: Wayburn Sassy is an 89 year old self-proclaimed “Entertainment Legend” and America’s Favorite Bigot. Wayburn fears Blacks, Jews, Hispanics, Japanese, Arabs, Islanders, the Taiwanese, bongo players, men in kilts, and above ALL he fears ” Whimsicals” (Wayburn’s word for Gay Men). Wayburn has the excellent fortune of sharing the stage with his “Amorous Amazon,” his “Leggy Lolita,” his “Girl-with-the-Gorgeous-Gams,” Miss Didi Panache. Didi loves everyone, but she loves Wayburn best. Together, this irreverent twosome transport the audience to a place where no subject is taboo and everyone takes part in the joke.
The Dates: Sept. 21 & 22, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Know Theatre Cincinnati | BTC page |

UNFRINGED

Know Theatre Cincinnati’s Fall Fringe Festival

The Story: Kevin J Thornton (Sex, Dreams & Self Control 2009, I Love You We’re F*#ked 2011, Strange Dreamz 2012) returns with “Kevin J Thornton: UNFRINGED.” Expect his signature mix of comedic storytelling and original music, but this time with a twist. The entire hour is completely unscripted and spontaneous! He knows he’s probably going to talk about the time he worked on a cruise ship in South America and then play you the joke ideas he records into his phone in the middle of the night when he’s super stoned, but that’s about it. One thing is certain, this will be never before heard material. Could be thrilling. Could be moderately thrilling. Could be something else entirely.
The Dates: Sept. 20 & 22, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Know Theatre Cincinnati | BTC page |

…OPENING THIS WEEK

THE CURIOUS SAVAGE

Village Players

The Story: After inheriting $10 million, Mrs. Savage decides to establish a fund to help others realize their dreams. But her grown step-children have their own designs on the money and commit her to a sanatorium, hoping to “bring her to her senses.” There she meets various social misfits—just the kind of people she wants to help. A warm-hearted, uplifting comedy.
The Dates: Sept. 21-29, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Village Players | BTC page |

THE PRODUCERS

Footlighters Inc.

The Story: New York, 1959. Max Bialystock was once the king of Broadway, but now all his shows close on opening night. Things turn around when he’s visited by the neurotic accountant Leo Bloom, who proposes a scheme tailor-made for producers who can only make flops: raise far more money than you need, then make sure the show is despised. No one will be interested in it, so you can pocket the surplus. To this end, they produce a musical called Springtime for Hitler and as opening night draws near, what can go wrong?
The Dates: Sept. 20-Oct. 6, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Footlighters Inc. | BTC page |

THROUGH THE NIGHT

Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park

The Story: This tour-de-force solo performance embodies the stories of six African-American men, ranging in age from 10 to 60, whose lives are intertwined in beautiful and unexpected ways during one life-changing evening. Dayton native Daniel Beaty’s signature style displays a dazzling blend of humor, poetry, music and drama that earned him Drama Desk and Outer Critics Circle award nominations. Transcending race and gender, THROUGH THE NIGHT is a hard-hitting and inspirational story filled with possibility and promise.
The Dates: Sept. 22-Oct. 21, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park | BTC page |

WAIT UNTIL DARK

Fairfield Footlighters

The Story: A tense situation develops for Suzie Hendrix, who is blind, when a gang of criminals believe she has possession of a doll filled with drugs that they want, and they’ll stop at nothing to get it back. But they soon find out Suzie is not an easy victim when she levels the playing field when darkness falls.
The Dates: Sept. 21-30, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Fairfield Footlighters | BTC page |

…CONTINUING THIS WEEK

Torie Pate as Mae, Katie Hamilton-Meier as Maggie & Clifford Nunley as Brick. Photo by Holly Yurchison.

CAT ON A HOT TIN ROOF

Covedale Center for the Performing Arts

The Story: In a plantation house, a family celebrates the sixty-fifth birthday of its patriarch, Big Daddy. But the mood is tense, despite the festivities, as long-simmering evils poison the party. Greed, sins of the past and desperate clawing hopes for the future spar with one another as the knowledge that Big Daddy is dying slowly makes the rounds.
The Dates: Sept. 6-30, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Covedale Center for the Performing Arts | BTC page |

Helen Raymond as Marion, Owen Gunderman as Winthrop & Dan Doerger as Harold Hill. Photo by Holly Yurchison.

THE MUSIC MAN

Showboat Majestic

The Story: THE MUSIC MAN follows fast-talking traveling salesman Harold Hill as he cons the people of River City, Iowa into buying instruments and uniforms for a boys’ band he vows to organize – this despite the fact he doesn’t know a trombone from a treble clef. His plans to skip town with the cash are foiled when he falls for Marian the librarian, who transforms him into a respectable citizen by curtain’s fall.
The Dates: Sept. 12-30, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Showboat Majestic | BTC page |

Adam Van Wagoner as D’Artagnan and Shad Ramsey as Rochefort. Photo by Sandy Underwood.

THE THREE MUSKETEERS

Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park

The Story: Young Frenchman D’Artagnan and his plucky sister Sabine aspire to join the famed Musketeers. But they get more than they bargained for when they stumble into the center of a bitter rivalry between King Louis and the evil Cardinal Richelieu. The stakes have never been higher for our favorite swashbucklers in this action-packed update of one of the greatest adventure stories of all time.
The Dates: Sept. 1-29, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park | BTC page |

Alyssa Mehnert as Jean Louise Finch (Scout), Bruce Cromer as Atticus Finch, Noah Lentini as Jeremy Finch (Jem) & Torie Wiggins as Calpurnia. Photo by Jeanna Vella.

TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD

Cincinnati Shakespeare Company

The Story: In 1932 Alabama, Atticus Finch challenges the conscience of a town steeped in prejudice, violence, and hypocrisy. This story is a powerful portrait of a south poisoned by prejudice and the one man with the courage to fight against an injustice, but like the novel from which it comes, is filled with warmth and humor.
The Dates: Sept. 7-30. 2012
Tickets and More Information: Cincinnati Shakespeare Company | BTC page |

…CLOSING THIS WEEK

CLOSER THAN EVER

Middletown Lyric Theatre

The Story: As with their earlier revue, each song in CLOSER THAN EVER is a story: an intimate, insightful tale about couples and unrequited love. Included are several songs that were cut from the acclaimed BABY. Love, security, happiness-and holding onto them in a world that pulls you in a hundred directions at once. Maltby and Shire bring their celebrated craft and contemporary sensibility to songs about aging, mid-life crisis, second marriages, and role reversals.
The Dates: Sept. 13-22, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Middletown Lyric Theatre | BTC page |

THE FOX ON THE FAIRWAY

Mariemont Players

The Story: Bingham, president of the Quail Valley Country Club, discovers that the golfer he thought would play for his club has switched sides, and the huge bet he had foolishly wagered will likely to be lost. You’ll never look at golf the same way again as this fast-moving farce twists and turns from one laugh surprise to another.
The Dates: Sept. 7-23, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Mariemont Players | BTC page |

Annie Fitzpatrick as Margie, Margaret Ivey as Kate & Chris Clavelli as Mike. Photo by Ryan Kurtz.

GOOD PEOPLE

Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati

The Story: In this humor laced drama, Pulitzer Prize winner David Lindsay-Abaire (Rabbit Hole) explores the struggles, shifting loyalties and unshakeable hopes that come with having next to nothing in America. Margie Walsh can’t catch a break. Laid off from her job at the dollar store, Margie is faced with the reality that South Boston is providing her the same level of opportunity it always has: none. Wry, rough around the edges and ready to make a change, she goes to seek out the one who got away—both from “Southie” and from her. Instead, she finds herself in the ‘burbs and out of her element, facing the question: is opportunity granted or earned? Good People takes an affectionate look at the ‘haves’ and ‘have nots’ through the eyes of characters who won’t be ignored.
The Dates: Sept. 5-23, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati | BTC page |

…COMING SOON

JUST BEYOND REACH

Shark Eat Muffin Theatre Company

The Dates: Sept. 27-29, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Shark Eat Muffin Theatre Company | BTC page |

THE LITTLE PRINCE

Thomas More College

The Dates: Sept. 28-Oct. 7, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Thomas More College| BTC page |

YOU CAN’T TAKE IT WITH YOU

Northern Kentucky University

The Dates: Sept. 27-Oct. 7, 2012
Tickets and More Information: Northern Kentucky University | BTC page |

Playing for Change Day 2012

September 19, 2012 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

Playing for Change is an international music education movement that works to break down barriers between people through the universal language of music! Shortened: peace through music! YES! What an incredible initiative! People all over the world follow this movement through videos, concerts and social media. Communities are transformed by shared music, fund drives and ultimately music schools built in their regions to grow the skills and passions of young people through music!

After an inspiration visit with PFC Founder, Mark Johnson, last spring, Cityfolk became engaged in learning more about Playing for Change. The parallels between missions were revealed. As a traditional arts presenter, much of which has been music, Cityfolk has been driven by the universal language of music in a highly diverse community. Our partnership with the Welcome Dayton initiative has put us in a unique position to explore the breadth of culture in Dayton through our Culture Builds Community program. In a given year, we share a myriad of musical styles and performers. As we talked through the Playing for Change goals, we felt drawn to the tasks. It felt like a call to answer.

Culture Builds Community works in multiples: multiple art forms, multiple ethnicities, multiple schools, neighborhoods and age groups. This outreach arm of the Cityfolk mission was just the place to introduce a year-long commitment to an international movement. In fact, maybe it wouldn’t be just a year. Perhaps this collaboration could really take off! Again, the multiples: multiple staff members, volunteers, musicians and administrators came together and determined that Playing for Change Dayton was going to happen!!!

It all began during the Cityfolk Festival when our street team of musicians, The People’s Music, went out to share music with the gathered crowd. They had lots of interaction with folks there! During our Sunday rain delay, the street team got folks together in the parking garage, spurring a creative experience that motivated all involved: drums, vocals, dancing, over a hundred folks, joining energies to transform disappointment into possibility. PFC Dayton was officially in gear. The spontaneous jam was caught on videotape. Participants shared contact info. Culture was building community, right there, in the eye of the storm. That brings us to current day. Now with a structured Dayton team, a new partnership with Wright State University and lots of interested musicians, PFC Dayton is ready to roll.

This Saturday, September 22^nd, is Playing for Change Day! It is celebrated all around the world. Cityfolk has registered an event with Playing for Change Day International here in our Dayton Community. We will be raising money for the local realization of music education across cultures! Our short goal is to share PFC programs in Dayton all year. The long goal: establishing a Playing for Change music school in Dayton. We begin with supporting CBC music programs for the coming year!

PFC Day at the Trolley Stop begins at 6:30 Saturday evening in the beautiful, historic Oregon District! Bring your friends and enjoy the sounds of local musicians with global flare: Son del Caribe, The Odyssey, Eric Jerardi Band, Jay Martinez and Puzzle of Light. This is a fundraiser. These artists are donating their time to support the cause. The event is hosted by Sandy & Michael Bashaw from Puzzle of Light!

(Click here for our event calendar listing where you can listen to the performers)

The Trolley Stop is a local treasure: good drinks, good food, good friends, a lovely intimate music venue and the best patio around! We are grateful for their involvement in Cityfolk projects. (You will notice a giant mosaic banner on the side of the bar when you stop by on Saturday!) We are all cityfolks! Come enjoy the fun! We hope you will give generously!

2012 Downtown Dayton Revival Festival Recap

September 19, 2012 By Dayton Most Metro 1 Comment

Ivan Neville's Dumpstaphunk (Photo Credit: Tracy Malott/Blush Boudoir)

The music scene in Dayton has always been packed with great talent. From the new-age bluegrass and folk artist Todd the Fox, to the great indie rock band Me and Mountains, to the energy Orange Willard brings to each set-the Dayton music scene is impressive.

However, a lot of people outside Dayton don’t see that way. Actually, they don’t see anything. The popularity of the music scene in town has dropped some, to where only the people in the town are really the only ones that pay close attention to what’s going on. And with the accessibility of local music (websites, Facebook, record shops), the scene isn’t what it once was.

Matt Luongo noticed this dilemma, and wanted to change it. For eight years Matt crafted an event that would bring Dayton music back to the way it used to be, and also have major recording acts come to the party as well. Thus, the Downtown Dayton Revival Festival became reality. The festival just had their first weekend take place on September 8^th and 9^th.

The first performance to get the festival started was Dayton’s own, The Giant Steps. Their slow, psychedelic sound made the early crowd slowly ease themselves into getting ready for a full day of music. The Giant Steps blasted the stage with smooth guitar play that was well beyond their years of age (the oldest members are close to, if not already, 17 years old).

The Werks

Bronze Radio Return made their presence known early in the day. The band’s soulful, indie rock provided the crowd to get into the music early and often. After their set, the lead singer, Chris Henderson, met up with me and just raved about how the festival was going. “This is incredible”, Chris mentioned. “The people here are amazing. I can’t wait for us to come back.”

Griffin House talked about being a waiter when he was younger. He mentioned that he was just awful at it. He was so bad that he knew that it wasn’t going to make enough to pay rent. So, he took his guitar with him after work one night, went to a corner, and just playing and singing. People started dropping money down for him, and he soon realized that this was going to help him make money (and pay rent). House’s alternative, very mainstream-friendly sound had the crowd singing and dancing to his music.

One of the most powerful performances on the first day of the festival was the one that Kristy Lee gave. Kristy immediately engaged the crowd that brought her in with open arms. She talked about having gone through bad breakups, seeing her friends go through rough times, etc. Her music was very Adele meets Tracy Chapman-stripped down vocals with amazing acoustic guitar play. It was truly a performance that a lot of people, including myself, left talking about.

One act treated us to a show that was very much like seeing Phish-a psychedelic rock band with instrumental play that is simply out of this world. The band is Dayton’s own, The Werks. The chilled out band ripped on their guitars as if they were gods standing on the clouds of the sky. The play of the bass was impressive. The drum play was off the charts. The crowd danced throughout the whole set with freedom and joy, as if they channeled themselves to the days of Woodstock. The Werks had everyone in the palm of their hands. For the people that follow them, this set was just another fantastic show. To the others that were seeing them for the first time-they will make it a point to make it to see them time and time again from this point on.

Guided By Voices (Photo Credit: Tracy Malott/Blush Boudoir)

Wheels brought a show that made everyone in the crowd completely stunned. The 5 member band from Yellow Springs brought a show that was filled with folk rock and bluegrass. The band showed their musical range throughout their set, including a brilliant Dr. Dog cover. Their dreamy play of the harmonica and banjo only enhanced the experience of watching Wheels perform.

Guster has always been known to always have a show that is different. During a recent tour, they requested their fans to bring things to put on the stage. For example, they ask their fans to bring matchbox cars to put on the stage during one of their sets. It’s fun for the band and their fans to have that interaction. At the Revival Festival, Guster made a young girl become a fan for life. The lead singer, Ryan Miller, noticed a young girl that was holding up a sign mentioning that this was her first concert. Miller asked the young girl to come up on stage, and they wrote a song together on the spot. Everyone in the crowd loved it. If anything, this was the top 5 moments that the weekend brought us.

Guided By Voices came home to Dayton to be part of the inaugural event. They haven’t lost a step after all these years. Robert Pollard and crew took the stage as if they were still in the teen years. With their garage rock influenced sound blaring through the guitars, their trademark short songs, and their punk-like attitude; it was simply tremendous to see the boys back home. They gave their old fans more reason to keep trucking along with them, and it gave the younger generation to true sense on what Dayton music is all about.

John Legend (Photo Credit: Tracy Malott/Blush Boudoir)

The headliner on Saturday was John Legend. The hometown boy (Legend is from Springfield, Ohio) gave a performance that was simply one word-sexy. The singer brought the crowd to frenzy with his smooth, signature sound and his lyrics about love. ‘Slow Dance’ featured a young lady that came from the crowd and danced with Legend on stage.

On the second day of the festival, another hometown act came home. Heartless Bastards came in town and absolutely brought everyone to their knees with Erika Wennerstone’s haunting, Janis Joplin-like vocals, and the bands incredible instrumental play. ‘My face is melting with excitement’, screamed people from the crowd. I have to admit-one of those people was me.

Andy Grammer brought the crowd a performance that didn’t almost happen. Grammer had some issues getting to town that day, and it seemed like he wouldn’t be coming to town. Luckily, he got into town and gave the crowd an acoustic set that didn’t disappoint.

The Ohio Players (Photo Credit: Tracy Malott/Blush Boudoir)

Some other highlights on the second day of the festival included The Ohio Players bringing their signature funk sound to the Dayton festival. It was a true honor seeing the band play. Much like the way Guided By Voices, some of the young people in the crowd got a chance to see a band that has influenced many after them. Rusted Root gave their ‘Fortunate Freaks’ another suburb show. Buffalo Killers brought their signature sound, and made a few people in the crowd become diehard fans going forward. Robert Randolph and the Family Band had a dance party break out on stage during their set. They promised to bring a party, and they delivered. Train performed a fun, energetic set that closed the weekend off in style.

The two day festival brought a lot to the people that attended. It brought music that included folk, soul, R&B, alternative, rock, and so much more. What the festival brought most of all was the awareness that Dayton is still alive and well in the music scene. Walking around the festival, you noticed the attendees of the festival enjoying every act that took to the three stages. You saw people old and young joining together to hear music from the past and present. People from all around the United States came to this festival. People who never heard of some the local acts got to see the fantastic music being played here. You can say the festival gave Dayton music the revival it needed.

How to Buy a Boyfriend

September 18, 2012 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

Some of the Miami Valley's most eligible bachelors will be up for bid this Friday at the third annual PUSH Dayton Charity Bachelor Auction.

Jennifer Shinkle tells people she “bought” her boyfriend. And it’s true.

Shinkle’s boyfriend was part of the September 2011 PUSH Dayton Men in the City Charity Bachelor Auction, and the two have been going strong since. This year’s event will take place from 7 to 10 p.m. this Friday, Sept. 21, at the Dayton Racquet Club, with an after-party to be held in the adjacent 29 Stories Lounge.

With 17 of the Miami Valley’s most eligible bachelors up for bid, organizers of this third annual event are hoping for yet another love story. After all, the Bachelor Auction is two-for-two: In addition to Shinkle, chair of this year’s event, PUSH committee member Monica Deal met her husband at the first auction, and they’re now proud parents.

But the Bachelor Auction isn’t only about love. It’s about sex, too — sexual health, that is. The event directly supports Planned Parenthood Southwest Ohio Region’s free condom program and sexual health advocacy in the Miami Valley Region. It’s organized by the all-volunteer PUSH Dayton (Professionals United for Sexual Health) committee, which has held more than 20 events and raised more than $20,000 for Planned Parenthood since it was formed four years ago.

“Our goal is to raise awareness about the importance of practicing safe sex,” said Crystal Justice, associate director of development for Planned Parenthood of Southwest Ohio Region’s Miami Valley area. The organization served more than 23,000 patients in its eight health centers just in the past year, Justice said.

“Our work to promote safe sex and access to testing is crucial to sexual health outcomes in the Miami Valley, which has seen a sharp increase in sexually transmitted illnesses,” she added. “Planned Parenthood makes quality care accessible and affordable for everyone.”

Each bachelor comes with a date package on which interested ladies bid. This year’s bachelors range in age from 22 to 55 and their occupations include business owners, dancers, a state trooper, writer, actor, meteorologist, entrepreneur and adjunct professor. Couples packages also will be available for bidding, so those who already have found their true love still can participate and support the cause.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0r8G3myEAB4&feature=youtu.be’]“Last year we raised about $5,000 with about 115 guests,” Shinkle said. “This year, we expect to bring in even more attendees and have a goal to raise $8,000 for the cause. This is a very important year for us because we want to establish this as an annual event the community gets excited about. There is no event quite like it.

“The event not only supports Planned Parenthood, those who attend the event can mingle with like-minded professionals from throughout the Miami Valley,” Shinkle added. “You will meet people outside of your normal social circles at the Bachelor Auction and make new friends.”

Profiles and photos of each of the bachelors are available on PUSH Dayton’s website, as well as on the organization’s Facebook page. Advance tickets are $20 in advance and can be purchased online, and tickets are $25 at the door. Appetizers will be served, and a cash bar will be available.

THE MASTER Opens Friday at THE NEON

September 18, 2012 By Jonathan McNeal Leave a Comment

Hello Everyone,

The Toronto International Film Festival was great. I saw 29 films in 9 days (plus a few partials). If you’re interested to know about the movies I saw, click the picture below to be directed to my blog . In the coming days (once I’m caught up on NEON matters), I’ll post one last entry with my wrap-up. For now, I hope you enjoy this little collage of some of the people I saw during introductions and Q&As. These are all from pictures I took at the festival. Can you name everyone? (I’ll list all their names in next week’s newsletter.)

At THE NEON, we’re moving forward again this week. FAREWELL, MY QUEEN did not perform well enough to stick around for a second week. If you still need to see this film, you only have through Thursday to see it at THE NEON. On Friday, we will open one of the best reviewed films of the year – THE MASTER. This film broke records over the weekend in NYC and LA, and we’re hoping that fans of Paul Thomas Anderson (THERE WILL BE BLOOD, MAGNOLIA and BOOGIE NIGHTS) will be out en masse. ROBOT & FRANK will stick around for another week. (remaining showtimes for this week can be found at our site: neonmovies.com)

Synopsis for THE MASTER: “A Naval veteran arrives home from war unsettled and uncertain of his future – until he is tantalized by The Cause and its charismatic leader.” (taken from imdb.com) “In the years after WWII, an American intellectual creates a religion. When he meets a troubled drifter, he invites the man to help him spread the new faith. As their congregation increases, the drifter begins to question the religion he once accepted and the mentor who gave his life direction.” (taken from metacritic.com)

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fJ1O1vb9AUU’]

Earlier today, we had another director confirm that he will attend this year’s Downtown Dayton LGBT Film Festival. That makes three directors attending our fest…and I think that’s pretty incredible. Jonathan Lisecki – director of GAYBY, Travis Mathews – director of I WANT YOUR LOVE, Glenn Kiser – director of SABBATICAL (part of the TOP DRAWER SHORTS program) will attend and answer your questions. Read all about the films on the official website. The 7th Annual Fest is set for Sept. 28-30. Watch the trailers and mark your calendars…it’s gonna be great! Special thanks to DAYTON MOST METRO, WYSO and DAYTON DAILY NEWS for already committing to provide stories about this year’s films. To hear an interview I recently did about the festival on WYSO, please click this link.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1NNr7NtVIFk’]

And on the horizon is our benefit to assist with our digital conversion – set for October 14 (if you didn’t read that e-mail, you can check it out here). Tickets can now be purchased at our box office and on-line via paypal. If you’re not able to attend our benefit, you can also make a donation on the benefit page. WDTN recently did a story about our conversion and benefit…if you didn’t catch it, you can see the video by visiting their site.

All the best.
I hope to see you soon,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Fri. Sept. 21 – Thu. Sept. 27:

ROBOT & FRANK (PG-13) 1 Hr 29 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:50, 3:00, 5:10, 7:20, 9:30
Monday – Thursday: 3:00, 5:10, 7:20

THE MASTER (R) 2 Hrs 17 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 1:00, 4:00, 7:00, 9:45
Monday – Thursday: 2:30, 5:15, 8:00

COMING SOON:
As always, all dates are tentative. Many of these dates will change.
In some rare cases, titles may disappear
Sept. 28-30 DOWNTOWN DAYTON LGBT FILM FESTIVAL
Sept. 21 ARBITRAGE
Oct. 5 SLEEPWALK WITH ME
Oct. ? SEARCHING FOR SUGAR MAN
Nov. ? SAMSARA
TBD THE QUEEN OF VERSAILLES
TBD 2 DAYS IN NEW YORK

An Evening with Branford Marsalis

September 18, 2012 By Dayton Most Metro Leave a Comment

"An Evening with Branford Marsalis" - September 23, 2012 – Schuster Center

Victoria Theatre Association presents AN EVENING WITH BRANFORD MARSALIS with world-renowned saxophonist and National Endowment for the Arts Jazz Master Branford Marsalis and his quartet, Sunday, September 23, 2012 at 7:30 pm in the Benjamin & Marian Schuster Performing Arts Center. Tickets are on sale now!

BRANFORD MARSALIS is one of the most revered instrumentalists of his time. Leader of one of the finest jazz quartets today, and a frequent soloist with classical ensembles, MARSALIS and his Quartet of musical friends recently released Four MFs Playin’ Tunes. On this new album, the song takes center stage, with the band members bringing their considerable musical expertise to bear, as they focus on each tune as an important musical entity unto itself and not merely a vehicle for showcasing individual talent.

Having gained initial acclaim through his work with Art Blakey’s Jazz Messengers and his brother Wynton’s quintet in the early 1980s, Marsalis also performed and recorded with a who’s-who of jazz giants including Miles Davis, Dizzy Gillespie, Herbie Hancock, and Sonny Rollins. He has also collaborated with such diverse artists as Sting, the Grateful Dead and Bruce Hornsby. His expansive interests are further reflected in his explorations in film, radio and television, including his role as the musical director of “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno” for two years in the early 1990s. Marsalis has also acted in such popular movies such as Throw Mama from the Train and School Daze, provided music for Mo’ Better Blues and other films and hosted National Public Radio’s syndicated program Jazz Set.

Tickets for the AN EVENING WITH BRANFORD MARSALIS are on sale now at the Ticket Center Stage Box Office, located in the Wintergarden of the Schuster Center, by phone at (937) 228-3630, toll free (888) 228-3630 and online at www.ticketcenterstage.com.

For more information about Victoria Theatre Association’s 2012-2013 season, visit www.victoriatheatre.com

Dayton Most Metro Ticket Contest

We have ONE PAIR of tickets to see An Evening With Branford Marsalis and we’re giving it away to a lucky winner! Simply fill out the form below and then leave a comment telling us that YOU want to win tickets to see Branford Marsalis from Dayton Most Metro. We’ll do a random drawing at 1:30pm on Friday September 21st and announce the winner then. GOOD LUCK!

CONTEST CLOSED

Congratulations to our winner – Laura Goostree !!

Glenn Beck | Unconditional | Trouble With The Curve | The Master

September 18, 2012 By Dayton937 Leave a Comment

Hello Dayton!
This week mainly focuses on new openings for the week. Opening the week of 09/21 will be a faith based movie Unconditional, Clint Eastwood’s Trouble With The Curve, a repeat performance of Queen Live in Budapest, and Glenn Beck’s Unelectable.

GLENN BECK’S UNELECTABLE TOUR (09/20 & 09/25)

Glenn Beck has broken so many boundaries that he created a whole new realm of talk radio and caused a stir on cable television. This time Glenn Beck is featured in a comedy tour, where he will address everything from Democrats, Republicans, law makers and law breakers, no one is spared his wrath of humor! Election day is coming whether we like it or not, so you might as well laugh before you cry! Join Beck for an unforgettable night that will have you wishing he ran for office if for no other reason than to be the first politician that got laughed at on purpose! This will be playing at Dayton South and Huber Heights on Thursday 09/20 at 8pm with a repeat performance Tuesday 09/25 at 730pm.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nHyAZ9xrhm4′]

UNCONDITIONAL (09/21-09/27)

Samantha Crawford (Lynn Collins) is living the dream life: she is happily married, she lives on a ranch with her cherished horse, and the stories she both writes and illustrates are becoming published. When her husband Billy (Diego Klattenhoff) is killed in a senseless act of violence, Samantha not only loses her faith but also her will to live. Then a death-defying encounter with two children leads to a reunion with a childhood friend Joe (Michael Ealy). Sam then watches Joe taking care of the kids in his under-resourced neighborhood and begins to find her faith again. Inspired by true events. This film will open on 09/21 with weekend showtimes as follows: 11:40am, 2:15pm, 4:45pm, 7:15pm, and 10pm. For Monday-Thursday the showtimes will be 2:15pm, 4:45pm, 7:15pm, and 10pm.

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TROUBLE WITH THE CURVE (09/21-09/27)

Also opening this week is Clint Eastwood’s newest movie, Trouble with the Curve. And starring Amy Adams, Chelcie Ross, and Raymond Anthony Thomas, this feature is about an ailing baseball scout who decides to have his daughter come with him on his last trip to recruit new players. A movie that teaches the audience to handle “whatever life throws at you,” this feature will open in theaters on September 21st.

This is Clint’s first film as an actor with a director that’s not himself since 1993 In the Line of Fire. I am looking forward to this film as Clint never disappoints in anything he does. Who doesn’t love Clint Eastwood? I would like to see him win an Oscar and maybe star in another Western before he goes to the Hollywood in the sky.

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THE MASTER (09/21-09/27)

I am really looking forward to this film! Paul Thomas Anderson is a great director in my view and add in a cast of Phillip Seymour Hoffman, Joaquin Phonenix and Amy Adams and this film is primed and ready to deliver a great telling of a story! The film was released in five theaters this past weekend, four of which showed in it 70mm. It was a huge success and had a very high per-screen average, setting new box office records. No doubt because people did want to see it on 70mm which isn’t around much these days anymore and because of it’s awards it has taken. The huge opening for “The Master” beats the per-screen-average record for a live-action feature debut set earlier this year by Wes Anderson’s “Moonrise Kingdom,” which made $522,996 when it opened on four screens in May for an average of $130,749. Master did $729,745 for a per-screen of $145,949, breaking box office records.

Synopsis; A Naval veteran arrives home from war unsettled and uncertain of his future – until he is tantalized by The Cause and its charismatic leader.

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Click here for showtimes…

ENTER TO WIN TWO MOVIE PASSES!

Fill out the form below, then leave a FB comment telling us that YOU want to win a pair of movie passes from Rave Cinemas Dayton South. From the list of correct trivia responses with post, we will randomly draw a winner and notify same. Contest closes 09/19/12. Passes awarded will be valid for 30 days from close date at Rave Cinemas Dayton South only and must be used by then or will be forfeited. Valid for any showing, except special events. Please bring ID to verify your name and just ask for a manager when attending informing them you won the Dayton Most Metro contest.

This week – another easy trivia question: simply name your favorite Phillip Seymour Hoffman movie/role.

CONTEST CLOSED

Congrats to this week’s winner: Karri O’Reilly