Wednesday, April 30, 2008

Video Game News of the Weird: PETA rips off 'Mario' and MADD hates 'GTA IV'

First things first: No one expected "Grand Theft Auto IV" -- of which I attended a midnight sale for and took a day off of work to play -- to win over the hearts of the nation, but this sequel's scandal is starting early (well, in addition to the pre-release controversy...): MADD, Mothers Against Drunk Driving, wants a stricter rating on the game, The Associated Press reports, because of the ability to make your in-game character, Niko Bellic, drive drunk.

I support both sides (kind of).

In defense of "GTA" creators Rockstar Games, after your character becomes inebriated, an info box pops up onscreen and urges you to hail a cab. If you ask me, that's pretty responsible; MADD getting, well, mad about this is like blaming Budweiser for you driving yourself home drunk.

On the other hand, as someone who is subject to spells of dizziness (almost to the point of "horking") when it comes to unsteady cams, I don't like this new feature of one of my favorite video game series.

So, to MADD's credit, this inebriation device in the game really isn't welcome anyway.

In other news, check out PETA's anti-Kentucky Fried Chicken "Super Mario Bros." ripoff, "Super Chick Sisters" -- it's actually kind of fun:

Play Super Chick Sisters!

Monday, April 28, 2008

This Week's BONUS Shameless Budgeteer Plug

It's only Monday, but the online exclusives are already starting to pile up:

"Discover Duluth: Amnicon Falls, Vol. II" :: Like the majority of its Northland counterparts, Amnicon State Park outside Superior is alive with the sound of raging rapids. For this online exclusive, my photo essay series returns to one of my favorite area parks for a special "spring thaw" edition.

"Success Won't Change Dane Schmidt" :: While one of his groups, Sing It Loud, recently signed to punk powerhouse Epitaph Records, Duluth native Dane Schmidt still plugs away at his first recording project, Jamestown Story. A brief Q-and-A with the prolific musician. (UPDATE: Since I conducted my e-mail "interview" with Schmidt, his good buddy Kieren Smith has left Jamestown Story to concentrate on the continued success of Sing It Loud. A plain shame for Schmidt, who is now that first group's sole remaining member.)

Finally, two I neglected to mention in previous shameless plugs: Two issues ago I contributed a photo to Tom Kasper's column "Every Day is Earth Day" and the current issue, which sports a April 27 publication date, features a photo from yours truly on its cover. A variation of that image is above. (In case you can't read it, the bicyclist's "humble little billboards" read KEEP EARTH ALIVE, DON'T DRIVE. As you can tell from the image, that concept hasn't really caught on in the Twin Ports as much as he'd probably like.)

Sunday, April 27, 2008

SYS3: If you love Cars & Trucks, you'll REALLY love Riddle of Steel

Only two days away from the release of "Grand Theft Auto IV." These tracks are helping me get through this very difficult time. (Like Petty sang, "The waiting....")

Either way, enjoy this latest awesome mix tape:


1. The High Speed Scene - "In the Know"
One of the most frenetic pop songs ever recorded. I can't get enough.

2. XTC - "No Thugs in Our House" (BBC Peel Session vers.)
Recorded in 1982, the year I was born!

3. She & Him - "Why Do You Let Me Stay Here?"
Forget every preconceived notion you've ever had about attractive actresses cutting records: Backed up by the immortal M. Ward, cute-as-a-button Zooey Deschanel ("Almost Famous," "The Good Girl") is America's answer to Neko Case. One of the most exciting songs I've heard in some time.

4. The Kinks - "Lola"
The definition of "classic."

5. Supergrass - "What Went Wrong (In Your Head)"
And a modern-day successor to that title.

6. Atmosphere - "Flesh"
One of Ant's darkest hours production-wise. Slug and fellow MPLS MC I Self Devine work terrifically together on this one.

7. Del the Funky Homosapien - "Bubble Pop"
More fun than his contributions to the first Gorillaz album.

8. The Beta Band - "Space"
An 11th-hour masterpiece for the late "High Fidelity"-famed space cadets.

9. Apollo 440 - "Crazee Horse"
Like the Who's "Won't Get Fooled Again" reinvisioned as a rave masterpiece -- get your glow sticks on!

10. The Submarines - "You, Me and the Bourgeoisie"
Charming boy/girl pop.

11. Air - "Radio #1 (Senor Coconut Remix)"
Seeing as it is easily the strangest remix I've ever heard in my life, I just had to include it on one of these here mix tapes. Would've worked well in the 2001 sizzler "Y Tu Mama Tambien."

12. Aesop Rock - "Citronella"
I have no idea how his masterworks translate live, but I am super-excited to see his Soundset '08 set May 25 in Minneapolis.

13. British Sea Power - "Waving Flags"
This year's "Intervention"?

14. Hey Mercedes - "Everybody's Working for the Weak"
Sometimes even the most well-rounded musical diets need a little nameless, faceless emo rock.

15. Dead Milkmen - "Takin' Retards to the Zoo"
Umm ... is there anything you can say about this song without sounding like a complete [EXPLETIVE DELETED]?

16. Yellow Press - "Rubber and Wood"
Recommended if you like older Baboon, select artists on Turn Records.

17. Black Francis - "She Took All the Money"
Pure joy -- despite the song's title!

18. Bill Mallonee - "Life on Other Planets"
This could easily make a dent in the Top 40. Why is it on here, then? I find it enjoyable ... fair enough?

19. Vampire Weekend - "I Stand Corrected"
A harmless, semi-quirky, Strokes-esque midtempo rocker. (Got it?)

20. Turin Brakes - "Underdog (Save Me)"
Man, I'm so sick of this ... these guys should be HUGE!

21. Riddle of Steel - "One Inch Deep"
The St. Louis equivalent of Duluth's Cars & Trucks -- a [EXPLETIVE DELETED]-ing blast if I ever did hear one!

Thus concludes your third dose of SHAKE*YOUR*SHORES.
(Original image for show "poster" by Roger Wendell.)

Friday, April 25, 2008

Fly High, Duluth! tagged on new Atmosphere site

... by me. It looks like crap because A) I didn't know what I was doing and B) I had no idea anybody else would have to look at the stupid thing. For this, I apologize. In the meantime, check out Atmosphere's site for their new album, "When Life Gives You Lemons, You Paint that Shit Gold"!

Thursday, April 24, 2008

This Week's Shameless Budgeteer Plug + FREE MP3S!

KUWS DJ Walt Dizzo, Two Many Banjos, Coyote (Jerree Small + Marc Gartman), Doug Hoekstra, the John Sullivan Brigade, Hartley Nature Center (pics of) and resolving those nasty neighborhood issues.

"Walt Dizzo's Three Eclectic Hours" :: For the last couple years, volunteer KUWS DJ Walt Dizzo has been hammering out one of the most eclectic shows in the Twin Ports — if not the most eclectic show in the Twin Ports.

"CD Reviews: Two Many Banjos, Coyote, Doug Hoekstra and John Sullivan Brigade" :: That's right; four excellent releases covered this week: Two Many Banjos’ “Trouble in Paradise," Coyote’s “Times of Drought,” Doug Hoekstra's "Blooming Roses" and the John Sullivan Brigade's “A Sound Opportunity for Your Last Music Purchase."

"CRP Seeks to Resolve Duluth's Community Disputes" :: No matter how much Minnesota Nice is pumped into the atmosphere, sometimes community disputes in the Northland just don’t play out civilly. One group, the Center for Rural Planning (through its Community Alternative Dispute Resolution program), is here to help.

"Discover Duluth: Hartley Park, Vol. III" :: Though it's only been six months since we last took a look around Hartley Park, we thought we'd revisit it for a springtime special. (Exclusive to DuluthBudgeteer.com.)

And, as an added bonus, 19 free MP3 downloads courtesy of your friends at Adult Swim...


Tuesday, April 22, 2008

SYS2: A mix tape offering from Fly High, Duluth!


The contents for the second SHAKE*YOUR*SHORES awesome mix tape programme:

1. The Chemical Brothers - "My Elastic Eye"
A staple of my college years. Funny it took its usage in "The Butterfly Effect" to remind me of its awesomeness.

2. Atmosphere - "You"
Easily the single of the year. In fact, it's so memorable that it kept me up the other night. This [EXPLETIVE DELETED] is infectious: "You love the people that love you / You hear the music they move to / You give your all to the fall through / But you don't you don't you don't you don't know you."

3. The Plastic Constellations - "Floated Down and Flew Around"
As you might've expected, I will once again try to pimp out my album review of "We Appreciate You": "The album, easily their strongest set of songs to date, just happens to coincide with the boys’ recently announced 'indefinite hiatus.' It’s heartbreaking, to say the least — in fact, it’s OK to shed a tear or two when you first experience the aural bliss that is the unmatchable post-punk trio of songs that opens the album, 'Stay That Way,' 'Black Market Pandas' and 'Floated Down and Flew Around.' (Lord knows I did….)"

4. Does it Offend You, Yeah? - "Being Bad Feels Pretty Good"
Oh, and from my review of "You Have No Idea What You're Getting Yourself Into": "Instantly infectious, iPod commercial-worthy tracks like 'With a Heavy Heart (I Regret to Inform You)' and 'Being Bad Feels Pretty Good' bump up next to stylish, Killers-esque ’80s throwbacks ('Dawn of the Dead') and ... well, then there are tracks like 'Attack of the 60-foot Lesbian Octopus.'"

5. Baboon - "Lushlife"
A bridge song between the old, noise rock-Baboon and the new, hyper-stylized Baboon.

6. Bumblebeez 81 - "Pony Ride"
One of the last music videos I saw on one of the MTV channels. (Yeah, that was probably 2004....)

7. The Format - "The Lottery Song"
From the group's latest, an odds 'n' sods sort that's almost punk cheap.

8. The New Pornographers - "Falling Through Your Clothes"
Canadian rock royalty. All hail!

9. Hayes Carll - "Faulkner Street"
From this week's Electric Fetus newsletter (I recommend you sign up for it): "If you haven’t already heard of HAYES CARLL, you soon will. Carll has toured relentlessly (performing over two hundred shows a year), and he’s only getting started. On his new album, TROUBLE IN MIND, the 32 year-old Carll navigates his way through both stormy weather and calm, sun-drenched waters with ease, emerging with songs that melt even the hardest heart in town or heat up a roadhouse, all the result of plenty of real world experience. Musically, Carll blends the sound of Tony Joe White and Steve Earle. Check out a few tracks in our pop-up jukebox at efetus.com."

10. Steve Miller Band - "Going to the Country"
Although he declined to be interviewed by yours truly, I still love me my Steve Miller music.

11. Frank Zappa - "Peaches en Regalia"
And then there's Zappa, my newfound obsession. (If you have any old records of his sitting around, drop me a line.)

12. The Beach Boys - "Our Sweet Love"
A "Pet Sounds"-worthy gem from 1970's "Sunflower."

13. George Harrison - "Living in the Material World"
My favorite Beatle can do no wrong.

14. Finest Dearest - "Your Hometown"
Too bad this isn't really an ode to Crosby, Minn.

15. Frank Black and the Catholics - "Valentine and Garuda"
Don't knock it 'til you've tried it. I don't care if he did go "classic rock" for awhile -- I loved it!

16. Danny Michel - "Sweet Things"
Recommended if you like Cloud Cult, mid-period Flaming Lips.

17. Pedro the Lion - "Promise"
Nirvana's "Unplugged in New York" + anything by Cinerama = this gorgeous David Bazan creation.

18. Islands - "The Arm"
Horns, strings and an awkward, Beatles-y solo almost worthy of "Guitar Hero." Sweetness.

19. Dios Malos - "Staring at the Sun" (Daytrotter vers.)
From the impeccable group's upcoming third album.

20. Supertramp - "Dreamer"
One time, driving back from Duluth to said hometown, I hydroplaned listening to my copy of "Crime of the Century." That. Was. Terrifying. (How I remember that, no one will ever know....)

21. Danger Mouse - "Encore"
This Jay-Z/Beatles mash-up, which samples "Glass Onion" and "Savoy Truffle" (and, obviously, "Encore"), is probably the highlight of the illegal art masterpiece "The Grey Album."

22. David Schwartz - Theme from "Arrested Development"
I can't believe I found a decent MP3 of this catchy little jingle!

23. Air - "Another Day"
From the French duo's superb 2004 release "Talkie Walkie," another splendid, trance-inducing lullaby to daydream to. (Don't I sound like a pretty little girl....)

Thus concludes your second dose of SHAKE*YOUR*SHORES.

Aesop Rock downloading fun!


{Click on the above image for free downloads of "None Shall Pass," "39 Thieves," "Citronella" and more!}

A&E FYI: Homegrown 10 to feature 150 bands

Featuring 150 acts, Duluth’s 10th annual Homegrown Music Festival will be the largest showcase of local bands in the city’s history. The eight-day festival runs from April 27 to May 4, with events taking place at 23 venues.

Homegrown’s organizers released a 60-page guide to the event in early April, available at various locations in Duluth and Superior. Schedule information is also available online at www.duluthhomegrown.com.

Returning to the festival are such longtime favorites as the Alrights, Retribution Gospel Choir, the Keep Aways, Bone Appetit, Father Hennepin, Charlie Parr, Giljunko, Mary Bue, Jamie Ness, Lookdown Moon, Eeriearq, Teague Alexy, Crew Jones and Trampled By Turtles. Among the bands reuniting for the show is the Mighty Shock Tower, a group that hasn’t performed together in 17 years.

It will be rookies that start the festival off, however, with a Sunday new-band showcase at Pizza Luce on April 27. The week continues with a photo exhibit, film festival and night of poetry on Monday, an all-ages showcase and lineup of experimental music on Tuesday, and an acoustic showcase and DJ showcase on Wednesday.

The traditional Thursday night Starfire Lounge will go on opposite a hip-hop showcase in Duluth, while 14 acts cross the bay to perform at four locations in Superior.

The weekend climaxes with 51 bands on Friday, May 2, and 48 bands on Saturday, May 3, at 15 venues in Duluth. The festival concludes with an acoustic Sunday Brunch at Pizza Luce on May 4.

Founded in 1999 by Scott “Starfire” Lunt, the Homegrown Music Festival is in its third year as a nonprofit. The Bridge Syndicate, an organization committed to increasing cultural opportunities in the Twin Ports, serves as the event’s fiscal agent.

~Information courtesy of Homegrown Music Festival

IMAGE INFORMATION: I took this picture of Taconite's Jamie Ness and Jake Willis after I interviewed them for my "Diorama-rama 3: Bigger, Better, Shinier" article back in January. Taconite will perform at 9:30 p.m. May 3 at R.T. Quinlan's Saloon for Homegrown. Later that night, Ness will also take the stage at the Kozy Bar for a solo set.

Today's Moment of Zen: Duluth's Agent Orange van

My coworker alerted me to the presence of a mysterious "Agent Orange" Chevy van on Superior Street, so I hit the pavement with my trusty camera. Unfortunately, as soon as I finished up taking pictures of the vehicle (which sports such sage advice as "Don't play leapfrog with a unicorn"*) I started heading back to the office -- not knowing that the guy I just nodded at would soon get into it and take off. So, if you know who this piece of machinery belongs to, please drop me a line at mperrine at duluthbudgeeteer dot com. I'd love to ask him a few questions about it.

*After googling this art project on wheels, I discovered through Dennis Barry's photos of it that its words of wisdom even stretch into the interior.

Saturday, April 19, 2008

Introducing ... SHAKE*YOUR*SHORES (a new mix tape series)


Don't Tell a Soul is now SHAKE*YOUR*SHORES. No questions, please. (I have no answers....)

The contents for the first installment of this new awesome mix tape series:

1. Black Francis - "Seven Fingers"
Frank Black is (once again) back to using his Pixies moniker. Does it sound like the Pixies? Not necessarily, but it's my humble opinion that he's never released a bum album.

2. Reggie and the Full Effect - "Girl, Why'd You Run Away?"
Per Wiki: "Reggie and the Full Effect is a Kansas City-based American music project featuring James Dewees who was the former drummer for Coalesce, keyboardist for The Get Up Kids, and former touring keyboardist for New Found Glory and currently My Chemical Romance." It shouldn't work as well as it does -- Dewees approaches "Pinkerton"-esque highs time and time again -- but it just does.

3. Harvey Danger - "Oh! You Pretty Things" (David Bowie cover) [LIVE]
Mr. Bowie couldn't have said it better himself. (Read: One of the best damned covers these ears have ever heard. -> Well done, chaps.)

4. The Long Winters - "Ultimatum"
5. The John Sullivan Brigade - "Beyond this Sun"
Two of the most beautiful songs ever written. The first one is even wife-approved! (Unfortunately I can't say that about "Beyond this Sun," as it's never been put to "the test.")

6. Compulsion - "It's Great"
In all of its faux Wannadies glory....

7. Atmosphere - "The Old Style" (feat. cuts by DJ Plain Ole Bill)
Unbeknownst to me at the time, the clerk at the legendary Fifth Element store who was so friendly during my first visit there was none other than Plain Ole Bill. But that's not why this song is here; it's here because it's good. Damn good. (p.s. My copy of "When Life Gives You Lemons, You Paint that Shit Gold" came in the mail today, and it is awesome!)

8. Mac Lethal - "Walkin' on Nails"
A classic from the outspoken Kansas City rhymesayer.

9. Frank Zappa - "We are Not Alone"
One of the most mind-bending instrumentals I've ever come across -- even though its parent album, "The Man from Utopia," is notoriously crap.

10. The Dames - "Only Half"
Recommended if you like Alice in Chains, Cars & Trucks (or any other splendid Anthony "Tony" Bennett project) and, to a lesser extent, the Melvins.

11. Does it Offend You, Yeah? - "Attack of the 60-ft. Lesbian Octopus"
Here's what I said in my album review of "You Have No Idea What You're Getting Yourself Into": "Stupid title, for sure, but it’s one of the most exciting tracks of 2008 so far. While it reminds me of a hyperactive B-52’s surf rock instrumental, you could take something else entirely away with your headphones."

12. The B-52's - "Hot Corner"
Speaking of those crazy kids....

13. Malibu - "Yesteryear"
Malibu = Roger Joseph Manning Jr. from Jellyfish/TV Eyes/Imperial Drag. He's remixed artists like Beck, Air and, most triumphantly, Felix da Housecat. Enough said.

14. Jim Noir - "Don't You Worry"
Listen to this description of Jim's music from Barsuk's site: "Imagine a Wurlitzer jukebox stacked with the hits of ELO, Super Furry Animals, Pepper-era Beatles, The Beta Band, The Beach Boys, early Pink Floyd and Supertramp. Now imagine blowing that jukebox up with a cartoon-style dynamite stick and making a record from the exploded fragments of vinyl and luminescent tubing." Spot. On.

15. Two Many Banjos - "Fathers and Sons"
Longtime readers know that I'm not shy about professing my admiration for everything Marc Gartman has a hand in, but this song is different: It's his finest hour yet. No joke.

16. Midlake - "Paper Gown"
A nice companion piece to Gartman's latest triumph.

17. AM/FM - "Call Me Up"
A quiet little piece before ...

18. The Hoosiers - "Goodbye Mr. A"
one of the most Matt-approved groups of all time (well, there's me, Pinfield and Suoja at least...). For fans of Supergrass.

19. Supermodel Stalker - "Speedbumbs & Airbags"
One of the funniest [EXPLETIVE DELETED] songs of all time. Google the lyrics for a good time.

20. Kaspar Hauser - "King Pop"
I was right about to set my latest issue of CMJ on fire until this mesmerizing indie rock gem wormed its way out of my speakers. Congrats, K.H., you guys singlehandedly saved New Music Monthly.

21. Dealership - "Just So"
Like I always say, indie pop just wouldn't be the same without Berkeley's finest.

22. The Breeders - "It's the Love"
Forget what I said last time, this is probably the closest we'll ever get to another Kim Deal-penned "single" in our lifetimes.

23. Ruth Ruth - "Condition"
See, I told you I would make it up to Ruth Ruth after Friday's silly little post!

Thursday, April 17, 2008

dtas75: WE (I) APPRECIATE YOU


For this monumental awesome mix tape, I thought I'd celebrate by mixing some old favorites (circa a '96 mix tape I found) with newer ones. All these "early" tracks probably would've seemed a little more impressive had I released this when I constructed it more than a month ago....

*******

1. Dealership - "For Sale"
If someone claims to like indie pop and doesn't list Dealership in their Top 5, don't trust a word out of their MF-ing mouths. (I'm super serial here!)

2. Death Cab for Cutie - "Why You'd Want to Live Here" (+)



3. The Plastic Constellations - "Stay that Way"
Rest in peace, brothers from another mother, rest in peace.... (What makes it even more heartbreaking is that the group's "indefinite hiatus" comes right before the release of "We Appreciate You," easily their strongest set of songs to date.)

4. Atmosphere - "Shoulda Known"
Have you guys been keeping up with Slug and Ant's show on YouTube, "Paint it Gold"? Classic stuff. Make sure to at least check out the latest episode below:



5. Heiruspecs feat. Slug - "In Regrets"
Once again, Sluggo steals the show!

6. The Breeders - "Bang On"
To put it politely, "Mountain Battles" is a challenging record, so this is probably the closest we'll ever get to another Kim Deal-penned "single" in our lifetimes.

7. Fun Lovin' Criminals - "Scooby Snacks"
Doesn't it just bring you back?

8. Throwing Muses - "Portia" (+)
"Like frat boys who sleep together / We party better." (Ha!)

9. Cloud Cult - "When Water Comes to Life"
Read my review of "Feel Good Ghosts" here.

10. Psychotica - "Ice Planet Hell"
Another CMJ find from way back when.

11. Metal Molly - "Orange"
Here too.

12. Iggy Pop - "Heart is Saved"
And here.

13. The Figgs - "Blame It All Senseless"
And here.

14. Jimmy from "South Park" - "So This Guy Walks Into a B-b-b"
This is so bad, but I generally quote Jimmy around the house so....

15. Combine - "Know Regrets"
If you like noise rock, I know you're gonna dig this.

16. Possum Dixon - "Emergency's About to End"
Pop is as pop does. Love it!

17. Gravity Kills - "Guilty"
As you can see, I was feeling awfully nostalgic when I put this one together (so many weeks ago).

18. Cowboy Mouth - "Jenny Says"
Saw these guys when they opened for Cheap Trick at the state fair. Wait, wait ... I think I have a story about that somewhere.

19. Squirrel Nut Zippers - "Put a Lid on It"
Makes me wanna learn how to play an instrument -- you know, besides that plastic guitar that consumes all of my time.

20. Pluto - "When She was Happy"
Helping Canadians escape their Bryan Adams-induced shame since the early '90s....

21. Rasputina - "Transylvanian Concubine"
Marilyn Manson-approved nightmare music.

22. Ho-Hum - "One Out of Ten"
This song always surprises me: It only gets better with age.

23. Love Nut - "She Won't Do Me"
Funny stuff right here. And catchy too!

24. Drew Neumann - "Long Time Iguana (Yay! A Bong!)"
Man, talk about the psychotropic immortality blues....

25. Nine Inch Nails - "Physical (You're So)" (Adam Ant cover)
As far as I'm concerned, NIN is back in style.

Today's Moment of Zen: Reality Check '96


I'm not going to lie, this is some embarassing [EXPLETIVE DELETED]. You can't run from your past, though ... right? To my defense, I was only 13 at that time. Need proof? I found it in an autograph book I just happened to pick up at Universal Studios Florida while on a family vacation back in the day.* ... And Ruth Ruth? Really?! (I, for the life of me, can't even name one song to their credit -- maybe that will be my assignment for my next awesome mix tape.)

*This is actually the most embarassing part of the whole sad affair: I only stumbled upon the autograph book -- which Doug, Dale and the Daniel Francis Hartman signed, thank you very much -- whilst looking for my Pog collection at my parents' house. A HA HA Maybe I should've tried my luck at Geek Prom this year....

This Week's Shameless Budgeteer Plug

A Duluth contender for president, Holocaust drama "Dear Finder," three cool books, Mac Lethal and another mention of this week's online-exclusive CD reviews!

"Keep an Eye on Margot Presley (aka What's Your Point, Margot Presley?)" :: It remains to be seen whether or not Hilary Clinton will break the White House’s sex barrier, which makes Duluthian Margot Presley's turn in “What’s Your Point, Honey?” all the more intriguing. I spoke with the recent University of Wisconsin graduate about the Project 2024 documentary, which recently debuted at the Wisconsin Film Festival in Madison.

"'Dear Finder' Revisited for 10th Anniversary" :: To celebrate the first decade of the award-winning Holocaust drama “Dear Finder,” the University of Minnesota Duluth and the play’s chief architect, Tom Isbell, are revisiting it with a brand new set of players. I chatted up Isbell, who was always one of my favorite professors during my brief UMD stint.

"Book Reviews: Minnesota's Best Amateur Photographer and Two North Shore Guides" :: Brad Zellar's “Suburban World: The Norling Photos," Stephen B. Daniel’s “Shipwrecks Along Lake Superior’s North Shore: A Diver’s Guide” and Deborah Morse-Kahn’s “Lake Superior’s Historic North Shore: A Guided Tour” reviewed. While I enjoyed all three, I was absolutely blown away by the quality of Irwin Norling's prints (which showcase the postwar boom of Bloomington, Minn.).

And, in case you missed this week's shameless midweek plug...

"Mac Lethal Returns to Duluth" :: Brash Rhymesayers rapper Mac Lethal brings his Rotten Apple Pie Tour to The Venue at Mohaupt May 9.

"Also Released 3" :: Reviewed this go-round: Does it Offend You, Yeah?'s "You Have No Idea What You're Getting Yourself Into," Hungrytown's self-titled debut and the soundtracks to "Jumper" and "Penelope."

Tuesday, April 15, 2008

This Week's Shameless (Midweek) Budgeteer Plug

A Q-and-A with Rhymesayers emcee Mac Lethal and even more CD reviews -- all available exclusively online!

"Mac Lethal Returns to Duluth" :: Brash Rhymesayers rapper Mac Lethal brings his Rotten Apple Pie Tour to The Venue at Mohaupt May 9.

"Also Released 3" :: Reviewed this go-round: Does it Offend You, Yeah?’s “You Have No Idea What You’re Getting Yourself Into,” Hungrytown's self-titled debut and the soundtracks to "Jumper" and "Penelope."

Enjoy! Oh, and steer clear of the Minnesota Zoo this summer. (I heard they just booked Hootie & the Blowfish....)

Friday, April 11, 2008

New Sloan album confirmed for June 10!

Sloan to release new album Parallel Play on June 10
April 11, 2008, 12:00 am

The follow up to last year's 30-track epic Never Hear the End of It, new album Parallel Play finds the Canadian quartet in top form. A June 10 release date and a summer U.S. tour are planned.

In accordance with Sloan's unique creative dynamics, band members Jay Ferguson, Chris Murphy, Patrick Pentland and Andrew Scott each contribute three songs to Parallel Play (with Andrew clocking in at 4).

Patrick Pentland says of the Sloan process, "I think we create better separately than when we try to do it together. Some times collaboration works, but we're such different people, and all of us are capable song writers and producers, that it doesn't make sense to try to force the band to adhere to some preconceived idea of the typical rock band architecture."

Less a conscious answer to NHTEOI's ambitious unabridged length, "Parallel Play" is a boiled down continuation of the musical concepts put forth on their last album and a further exploration of the band's four-songwriter dynamic. A term taken from the science of developmental psychology, parallel play is a behavior seen in young children in which they enjoy independent activities in the company of other children, something the four boys in Sloan know a lot about.

The track listing and songwriting credits for Parallel Play are as follows:

1. Believe In Me - PATRICK
2. Cheap Champagne - JAY
3. All I Am Is All You’re Not - CHRIS
4. Emergency 911 - ANDREW
5. Burn For It - PATRICK
6. Witch's Wand - JAY
7. The Dogs - ANDREW
8. Living The Dream - CHRIS
9. The Other Side - PATRICK
10. Down In The Basement - ANDREW
11. If I Could Change Your Mind - JAY
12. I'm Not A Kid Anymore - CHRIS
13. Too Many - ANDREW

~Image and information courtesy of Yep Roc



FURTHER READING:
"The Best Albums of 2006, Pts. 1 & 2" :: I wrote it, and Sloan topped it!

This Week's Shameless Budgeteer Plug

Cloud Cult, the Plastic Constellations, Video Vision, the Feelin Band, Miss Tess and Joel and Deborah Cooper covered this week!

"Coopers Return with 'What We Keep'" :: When Joel and Deborah Cooper come together for a collaborative art show, you know they mean business.

"Against the Odds, Video Vision Turns 25"
:: Industry analysts have predicted the demise of video stores for more than a decade, but local chain Video Vision has soldiered on and weathered the storm.

"CD Reviews: Cloud Cult, Plastic Constellations, Feelin Band and Miss Tess"
:: Reviewed this time around: Cloud Cult's "Feel Good Ghosts (Tea-partying Through Tornadoes)," the Plastic Constellations' "We Appreciate You," the Feelin Band's "The Sacred Play of Life" and, in brief, Miss Tess and the Bon Ton Parade's "Modern Vintage."

(This week's "cover" taken yesterday during the freak monsoon that hit Canal Park.)

Thursday, April 10, 2008

A&E FYI: Snoodle snuggles up to Starfire

Tonya Borgeson, proprietor of Snoodle Ceramic Studio & Gallery, will have a one-off show at Starfire Screen Printing, 1131 E. Fourth St. in Duluth, from Saturday, April 19, until the end of the month.

Art work includes hand-built ceramic sculptures and copper-enameled drawings.

Borgeson will celebrate the opening of her Starfire show with a reception from 1 to 3 p.m. that Saturday.

~Image and information courtesy of Tonya Borgeson



FURTHER READING:
"Snoodle Ceramic Studio Opens Gallery Space" -- Ceramicist Tonya Borgeson does some amazing work, and now hopefully more people will know that. Plus, her art space is right next door to Lake Superior Zoo, which is very cool.
"Homegrown Founder Launches Starfire Screen Printing Co." -- Scott Lunt's had his hand in so many wonderful projects (a very special kudos for the "Treasure Chest" CD), and what I've seen from his latest doesn't disappoint.

Wednesday, April 9, 2008

Soundset 08: Best hip-hop festival EVER?

Rhymesayers and Rose Presents bring you Soundset 08: the official Midwest kick-off festival of the summer with eight hours of the best independent Hip Hop music in one day.

Confirmed artists for Soundset 08 include: Atmosphere, Dilated Peoples, Aesop Rock w/ Rob Sonic and DJ Big Wiz, Little Brother, DJ Babu, Rhettmatic, J-Rocc of the World Famous Beat Junkies, Brother Ali, Eyedea & Abilities, P.O.S, Blueprint, Mac Lethal, Abstract Rude, I Self Devine, Musab, Psalm One, Grayskul, Los Nativos and more to be announced!

In 1997, Rhymesayers gathered over two dozen local artists and more than a dozen local DJs and B-Boy's to perform at a South Minneapolis warehouse until dawn to a capacity-filled crowd. Two years later, Rhymesayers expanded the concept at First Avenue, with Soundset Wednesdays, drawing a crowd of over 1700 people for the opening night and maintaining sellout capacity for its entire run. This was the birth of Soundset and a catalyst for the success of Rhymesayers, now one of indie Hip Hop's most successful and respected labels worldwide.

On stage, Soundset 08, year one. Atmosphere, fresh off their sixth studio album, When Life Gives You Lemons, You Paint That Shit Gold and a 20-city album release tour, come back home to Minneapolis to headline Soundset 08. As forerunners of the independent west coast rap movement, the legendary Dilated Peoples (Evidence, Rakaa Iriscience and DJ Babu) will join us from Los Angeles, CA. On the wheels of steel, from the West Coast, we welcome the World Famous Beat Junkies (DJ Rhettmatic, J-Rocc and DJ Babu), performing individual DJ sets. Reigning from NYC's Def Jux camp, Aesop Rock, along with Rob Sonic and DJ Big Wiz, return to Minneapolis after last year's sold out performance at First Ave. North Carolina MC's, Phonte and Big Pooh, aka Little Brother bring to the stage one of the finest shows in Hip Hop. After much broad critical acclaim for his Undisputed Truth album, Brother Ali is set to deliver his raw emotion and political views to the Twin Cities. Rhymesayers' artist and local hero, P.O.S, of Doomtree fame, returns to the Dome parking lot after performing there on last year's Warped Tour. 16 artists performing on the main stage, a second stage with additional local artists, a slow & low custom car show, skate demo and more fun for the whole family!

Tickets for Soundset:

- Special 3-Day Fan Presale at $20.
The Soundset Special 3-Day Fan Pre-Sale (4.09 - 4.11) begins Wednesday, April 9, 2008 at 11:00AM local time.

Get Yours Now: Soundset.DucatKing.com or: Fifth Element, 2411 Hennepin Ave South, Minneapolis, MN 55405

- National Public On Sale:
Tickets go on sale to the general public on Saturday April 12th at 1:00PM through www.ticketmaster.com. Tickets are $25

Visit our websites for the latest Soundset 08 lineup, music and information! www.myspace.com/soundset www.rhymesayers.com

~Image and information courtesy of Rhymesayers

Monday, April 7, 2008

SIN CITY NEWS: Puff nightclub opening soon

On April 11, Puff opens as the newest addition to the Las Vegas nightclub and restaurant scene.

Inside the 10,000 sq. ft. purple building located one mile east of the Las Vegas Strip on Flamingo (at 1030 E. Flamingo Road), Puff is designed to incorporate all the benefits of a mega-nightclub and distinctive restaurant with the class and relaxing intimacy of a much smaller venue.

Karan Hoss and Abdi Nasr, owners of Puff Inc. have set out to make Puff the undisputed “hottest venue off the Strip.”

The Puff concept is a multi-genre music club designed to attract those looking for prime time live entertainment with drinking, dancing and socializing; the young and hip looking for an after-hours scene, and anyone looking for the best place to enjoy cocktails, specialty hookah and exceptional tapas cuisine.

If fine dining often means stuffy, it doesn’t at Puff. Puff serves up fusion gourmet tapas; a long list of small plates that convey big flavors and a reasonably priced wine and spirit menu. There’s plenty of excitement for city-dwellers looking for a mini-escape with specialty hookahs and an electrifying variety of live entertainment that includes a weekly assortment of blues, jazz, world, acoustic, rock, ambient house, funk and reggae.

“Our intention is to invigorate guests with pleasures of drinking, dining, dancing and live entertainment and exciting night life,” said Karan Hoss. “We are paying close attention to every detail and providing plush seating, live entertainment, top-notch DJs, intimate dance floors and a killer sound and light system, as well as private VIP areas offering first class bottle service.”

From the minute you step inside, Puff will captivate you. Spacious seating and a large public bar area comprise this club, which can easily accommodate large groups. At Puff, the combination of inviting décor will enliven your congenial senses while live music arouses your spirits and aromas of mouth watering tapas titillate your palate.

“Our freewheeling international chefs draw influences from around the world bringing our tapas menu to a whole new level,” claims Abdi Nasr.

Promoting the new venue, Puff Inc. signed a three-season deal to produce Puff TV for broadcast on national television. The camera crews will follow the actions of the Puff staff, as well as Puff goers on select nights. Each 30-minute episode will air nationwide the following week, and will be archived and available to viewers on Puff’s Web site (www.pufflounge.com).

At Puff, locals and tourists will experience private Moroccan style living room booths, an energized party patio, intimate dance floors, VIP lounges, and smoking bar area with gaming. This exciting new twist on fine dining/mega-club/hookah lounge ensures that everyone has a private place to dine, dance and relax into the wee hours – seven day a week, 24 hours a day.

~Information and image courtesy of Puff

Sunday, April 6, 2008

A&E FYI: Nine Inch Nails confirms touring lineup, will play MPLS


The Nine Inch Nails 2008 touring lineup has been completed. Returning member Robin Finck and new addition Rich Fownes will join Trent Reznor, Alessandro Cortini and Josh Freese for a world tour beginning July in North America.

Finck has served in numerous touring configurations of NIN, from tours supporting The Downward Spiral (1994-1997) to The Fragile (2000-2001). More recently, he played in Guns N Roses. Fownes has been performing with UNKLE, and has been a member of With Scissors and The Eighties Matchbox B-Line Disaster.

The upcoming tour will feature the live debut of material from the recently released Ghosts I-IV alongside songs spanning the entire NIN catalogue.

Confirmed dates thus far for NIN's 2008 world tour are listed below. Additional dates and on-sales will be announced shortly.

07/25/08 - Pemberton, BC - Pemberton Festival
07/26/08 - Seattle, WA - Key Arena at Seattle Center
07/28/08 - Edmonton, ALB - Rexall Place
07/29/08 - Calgary, ALB - Pengrowth Saddledome
07/31/08 - Winnipeg, MAN - MTS Centre
08/02/08 - Minneapolis, MN - Target Center
08/05/08 - Toronto, ONT - Air Canada Centre
08/07/08 - Uncasville, CT - Mohegan Sun Arena
08/08/08 - Worcester, MA - DCU Center
08/12/08 - Knoxville, TN - Knoxville Civic Coliseum
08/13/08 - Duluth, GA - Gwinnett Arena
08/15/08 - Oklahoma City, OK - Ford Center
08/16/08 - Houston, TX - Toyota Center
08/18/08 - Dallas, TX - American Airlines Center
08/20/08 - St. Louis, MO - Scottrade Center
08/22/08 - Cleveland, OH - Quicken Loans Arena
08/23/08 - Auburn Hills, MI - Palace of Auburn Hills
08/27/08 - East Rutherford, NJ - Izod Center
08/29/08 - Philadelphia, PA - Wachovia Center
08/31/08 - Lexington, KY - Rupp Arena
09/02/08 - Morrison, CO - Red Rocks Amphitheater
09/03/08 - Salt Lake City, UT - The E Center of West Valley
09/05/08 - Oakland, CA - Oracle Arena
09/06/08 - Los Angeles, CA - The Forum

~Information courtesy of Nine Inch Nails

Friday, April 4, 2008

This Week's Shameless Budgeteer Plug + 'God Rocks' trailer

Chris Monroe, "Leatherheads" review, seniors and cell phones and CD reviews a-plenty!

"Peace, Love, Chico Bon Bon" :: Duluth-based illustrator Chris Monroe on "Monkey with a Tool Belt," her first project for children. As a huge fan of "Violet Days" and Chris' misc. album cover projects, this whole experience was quite a pleasure.

"'Leatherheads' a Throwback to Classic Cinema"
:: Yay, you can now legally read my movie review! (If you're not totally sick of hearing about George Clooney, Renee Zellwegger and the Duluth Eskimos, that is.)

"Cell Phone Options Expand for Seniors" :: With the advent of the Jitterbug, a cell phone marketed explicitly for its simplicity, the senior citizen demographic is one of the most sought-after for wireless providers at the moment. I talk to industry leaders AT&T, Sprint and Verizon to see what they're up to.

"Also Released 2" :: In this online exclusive, records from Boys Noize, Crystal Castles, Bangers & Cash and Just Mike are reviewed by me.

Finally, what you've all been waiting for: The trailer for "God Rocks" has finally arrived -- watch it now!

Wednesday, April 2, 2008

Storyhill does Duluth AGAIN (FROM THE ARCHIVES)

In honor of Storyhill's upcoming performance at the College of St. Scholastica (7:30 p.m. / April 10 / Somers Lounge / FREE), I thought I'd resurrect my coverage of this terrific folk rock duo to date:

Sunday, October 21, 2007

Concert Review: Storyhill does Duluth, or: Weber’s $10M price tag finally pays off

Matthew R. Perrine
Budgeteer News - 10/21/2007

“I was sleeping” … with those three words, Storyhill launched into what may very well be the ultimate Weber Music Hall performance.

If nothing else, the Bozeman, Mont., duo’s 20-song set last Thursday at the University of Minnesota Duluth’s nearly $10 million concert hall was an essential concertgoing experience — and deserves to be dissected by, at the very least, a self-described music geek/obsessive fanboy.

If ever there were a perfect match for the unreal acoustics at Weber, it would be Storyhill.

Harmony-wise, these Montana boys can’t be beat. What they accomplish with only their acoustic guitars and golden voices puts every other duo to shame and, lyrically, you’d be hard-pressed to find anyone offended by Storyhill’s songs about rivers, streams and crisp mountain air. (Although, it should be noted, “Wow, this is probably the edgiest group Weber has ever hosted” was my favorite joke of the night ... my dad laughed, but I’m sure he was just being nice.)

So, now that I’ve effectively showcased how gaga I get whenever there’s even the slightest mention of Storyhill, let’s get on to the show.

From the opener “Somewhere in Between” (from 1995’s “Clearing”), the group tackled a few more “golden oldies,” “New Year’s” and “Good Rain” — essentially easing longtime fans into a set that leaned heavily on material from last year’s self-titled album.

This is important to note, as “Storyhill” marked a significantly brighter approach to songwriting for Chris Cunningham and Johnny Hermanson. (Within the confines of Storyhill, that is. Hermanson, in particular, has been known to write They Might Be Giants-worthy tracks like “80s Party” when he’s going it alone.)

It’s not that Storyhill’s back catalog isn’t without its fair share of upbeat tunes — “Loose Summer Clothes” and “Worst Enemy” quickly come to mind — but those don’t seem to be played as much anymore.

And, while I can’t speak for those aforementioned Storyhill lifers (as “Storyhill” was my introduction to the band), I found the newer material to be the night’s undisputed highlights.

For me, perennial fan favorites like “Old Sea Captain” and “Mary on the Mountain” paled in comparison to the robust, Jayhawks-esque newbies like “Blazing Out of Sight” and “Happy Man.” In fact, when those two were played back to back, I distinctly recalled the words I chose to open my review of “Storyhill” last fall: “It takes less than a minute to fall in love with Storyhill.”

In addition to the memorable performances, Cunningham and Hermanson also filled the night with some surprisingly memorable onstage banter. They were as jovial as ever — Cunningham kept referring to the venue’s audio technician as “sound buddy,” and Hermanson quipped that ex-girlfriends are his biggest source of inspiration – but it was Cunningham who really drove it home.

As a way to introduce the heart-wrenching “Paradise Lost,” which examines how overdevelopment is destroying the green spaces we all enjoyed as kids, he made a few choice comments about Duluth’s Beacon Point Condominiums.

While the songwriter didn’t want to get “too negative” or start a political debate, he struck a raw nerve with yours truly: If a musician that only passes through town two or three times a year notices what a public blight Duluth has on its hands, why isn’t more being done to protect our city’s treasured assets?

Other than those few offhanded comments — which were, more than anything, just brief departures back into reality — the group moved seamlessly from one flawlessly orchestrated arrangement to the next.

There were also a few surprises thrown in for good measure. Hermanson previewed a new song (“Better Angels”); the group resurrected “Full Circle” from Cunningham’s Sixth Sense days and, in an encore that would incorporate “If I Could,” “Stillwater” and “Steady On,” the group asked the audience if there was anything else they wanted to hear.

That easy-going nature, and the magic that is the Storyhill canon — combined with the unbeatable sound environment at Weber, of course — made for quite the night.

The set list for Storyhill's performance at Weber Music Hall is available at www.areavoices.com/mperrine (on Matthew R. Perrine's blog, "Fly High, Duluth!").


This concert review originally appeared in the Oct. 21, 2007, issue of the Duluth Budgeteer News. It can be found on the paper's Web site at www.duluthbudgeteer.com/articles/index.cfm?id=20994. (Image cutline: Storyhill’s Chris Cunningham and Johnny Hermanson. Matthew R. Perrine/Budgeteer News.)


*******

Saturday, October 14, 2006

CD Reviews: The folkies are in full bloom

Matthew R. Perrine
Budgeteer News - 10/15/2006

It takes less than a minute to fall in love with Storyhill. Forty-eight seconds into “Give Up the Ghost,” the lead-off track on the duo’s new self-titled release, it becomes painfully obvious that these guys aren’t just the pride of Bozeman, but of the entire state of Montana.

Trading folk and rock passages back and forth a la early records by the Jayhawks, Chris Cunningham and John Hermanson have crafted a timeless sound. Supercharged by the production of Semisonic’s Dan Wilson, though, and the two have crafted a timeless sound that won’t go unnoticed.

So much so, in fact, that the group is currently contending major distribution offers. In consequence, this brilliant self-released gem will only be available at their shows until they’re officially superstars.

Storyhill will perform at 7 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 15, at the Scottish Rite Temple. Justin Roth opens. Cost is $17 ($12 for students). For details, visit www.storyhill.com.

*******

Leaning more on the adult contemporary side of the folk spectrum, Edie Carey dangerously walks the line between schmaltz and authenticity.

That’s not to say that the songs on her latest album, “Another Kind of Fire,” should immediately be disregarded, but songs like “Hollywood Ending” could easily provide the soundtrack to a delicate, slow-moving crane shot in any given teen drama — in early a.m. glow, no less.

In fact, “sentimental” is a word that doesn’t even begin to describe the feeling Carey chases. Too harsh? Hardly. The album’s liner notes include special thanks for “soft beds, hot meals, babies for the holding and late-night chats” — this music is only for the faint of heart.

Edie Carey will perform at 8 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 15, at Beaner’s Central. Rachael Kilgour is also on the bill. Cost is $8. For details, visit www.ediecarey.com.

*******

Even in her quietest moments, Chris Pureka exudes a magnificent presence.

“Dryland,” her follow-up to 2004’s “Driving North,” presents another journey onto itself. While “Intro” may flow like a gentle stream, it belies the fact that this isn’t just another delicate folk record. It’s more than that; it’s rustic because, like Pureka’s voice, the songs are a little rough around the edges.

Following an entrenching cover of Gillian Welch’s “Everything is Free,” “Compass Rose” is really this album’s shining hour. Wrapped around some curious guitar noodling, upright bass, banjo and fiddle coalesce to lead listeners back to a different time.

Somewhere this song should be playing on a midnight train rolling across moonlit rolling hills in the high plains of Wyoming. One can only imagine that, if Charlie Parr was listening right now, he’d be smiling.

Chris Pureka will perform at 8 p.m. Oct. 26 at Carmody’s Irish Pub. Jerree Small will also perform. No cost. For details, visit www.chrispureka.com.


These reviews originally appeared in the Oct. 15, 2006, issue of the Duluth Budgeteer News. They can be found on the paper's Web site at www.duluthbudgeteer.com/articles/index.cfm?id=19044.

Summer Shandy is bad, nationwide / Hot rats, Fat Tire in a can!

Leinenkugel’s prepares for countrywide expansion of Summer Shandy

Chippewa Falls, Wis. This summer, the Jacob Leinenkugel Brewing Company is sharing its twist on a European recipe with craft beer lovers across the country. Leinenkugel’s Summer Shandy, which was initially introduced in Upper Midwest markets in 2007 as a seasonal summertime brew, quickly became the 141-year-old craft brewer’s best selling seasonal of all time.

As the craft beer market continues to thrive, Leinenkugel’s is delivering its refreshing summer seasonal to Leinie loyalists and craft beer lovers across the U.S. this April.

A relatively untapped offering in the United States, the “shandy” (which is short for “shandygaff”) as it’s called in England and Germany, is typically a mixture of beer and soda or lemonade which has been enjoyed across Europe since the 17th century. Another variation of a shandy is the “radler” which is a German term for cyclist.

In September 1922, Franz Xaver Kugler developed the radler, when approximately 13,000 cyclists visited his tavern in Munich. His beer supply started to run out, so he cleverly mixed the remaining beer with lemonade and pretended he created the blend especially for the cyclists. Available April through August, Leinenkugel’s Summer Shandy is an adventurous blend of select malted wheat and barley, lemonade flavor and a hint of Wisconsin honey.

“Leinenkugel’s Summer Shandy is a unique and invigorating summer brew that was embraced last summer by our loyal fans and new beer drinkers alike in the Upper Midwest,” said Dick Leinenkugel, Leinenkugel’s vice president of sales and marketing and fifth generation brewer. “We’re excited to introduce our popular new seasonal to craft beer lovers across the country who are seeking a new way to satisfy their taste for adventure this summer.”

Today, Leinenkugel’s continues to look for ways to quench the adventurous spirit of its dedicated fan base of nearly 200,000 Leinie loyalists living throughout the U.S. Leinie loyalists are a group of devoted fans of the specialty brewer who stay in touch virtually throughout the year via
Leinenkugel’s newsletters and gather for the Leinie Lodge Family Reunion in Chippewa Falls every June. This April, Leinie loyalists will be among the first to seek out the refreshing summertime seasonal in new markets.

Brewed in small, high-quality batches at Leinenkugel’s brewery in Chippewa Falls, Leinenkugel’s Summer Shandy features a tangy and citrus character. Its tart lemon flavoring complements spicy and robust summertime grilling recipes and brings an unexpected flavor twist to beer mixes created though the growing trend of beer mixology.

Summer Shandy contains 4.2 percent alcohol by volume (ABV).

It will be available where Leinenkugel’s is sold in 6 and 12 -pack bottles and on draft in 1/2 and 1/4 barrels. Summer Shandy retails for approximately $7.99 a 6-pack.

Leinenkugel’s Candied Ginger Shandy
(Created by Las Vegas-based Master Mixologist Tobin Ellis)
Candied Ginger Shandy
½ glass Leinenkugel’s Summer Shandy
½ glass real ginger beer (non-alcoholic)*
Top with ginger lemon foam
Garnish with candied lemon slice

Ginger Lemon Foam
2 oz. ginger liqueur
4 oz. fresh lemonade
4 oz. egg whites
5 dashes lemon bitters
Add all ingredients to a dessert whipper and charge with NO2. Shake well,
refrigerate. Makes 12 drinks.

Candied Lemon Slices
Boil 1 cup sugar in 1 cup water. Add thin lemon slices, boil until slices become slightly transparent. Remove and coat in fine sugar while still warm. Let cool.

*Ginger beer is not “beer” as in hops and alcohol, but it is an authentic and flavorful non-alcoholic beverage, such as root beer or apple beer, which is made with fresh herbs, roots, spices and fruits.

Leinenkugel’s Summer Shandy-Infused Salsa
2 large chopped onions
1 ½-2 minced garlic cloves
7-8 chopped tomatoes
1 healthy handful of chopped cilantro
1 chopped green bell pepper
1 chopped yellow bell pepper
1 chopped red bell pepper
1 chopped orange bell pepper
1 ½ cups of Leinenkugel’s Summer Shandy
1/3 cup of black beans
½ can of garbanzo beans
½ can of corn
2-3 jalapenos
1 tablespoon of salt

Mix and let the adventure begin!

About Jacob Leinenkugel Brewing Company
Leinenkugel’s, brewed in Chippewa Falls, is the leading craft brewer in the upper Midwest. Leinenkugel’s year-round offerings include Leinenkugel’s Sunset Wheat, Honey Weiss, Berry Weiss, Leinie’s Red, Creamy Dark, Original and Light. In addition to Summer Shandy, Leinenkugel’s offers three other limited-release beers including Big Butt Doppelbock, Leinenkugel’s Oktoberfest, and fall favorite Leinenkugel’s Apple Spice. For more information on the rich history of Leinenkugel’s, visit www.leinie.com.

~Image and information courtesy of Leinie’s

*******

In other beverage news: New Belgium to roll out Fat Tire in Cans

Fort Collins, Colo. New Belgium Brewing today announced that it will be packaging and distributing its flagship Fat Tire Amber Ale in aluminum cans to limited markets this summer. New Belgium, known for its commitment to quality and sustainability, will begin distributing a short run of cans in June, just when concerts, camping trips and other outdoor activities are in full swing.
“Introducing cans was a natural choice given that they are outdoor-friendly, light for transport and readily recyclable,” said Bryan Simpson, spokesperson for New Belgium. “In addition to the lighter carbon footprint, Fat Tire can now travel to places where glass is not an option.”
Distributing cans will continue to help lessen New Belgium’s footprint by saving fuel during transport to other states by lightening the weight of the trucks. New Belgium has begun this process by using biodiesel in its Ft. Collins distribution trucks and in the trucks used during the Tour de Fat traveling events.
The cans, which are 100 percent recyclable, will feature Fat Tire’s original watercolor artwork. And for those beer lovers worried about Fat Tire’s taste changing in the can, fear not.
“We took a unique can-conditioning approach and its flavor was not compromised in any way,” added Simpson. “We ran a series of tests using our friends at Oskar Blues canning line and there was virtually no flavor differential.”

About New Belgium Brewing Company
New Belgium Brewing Company, makers of Fat Amber Ale and other Belgian-inspired beers, began operations in a tiny Fort Collins basement in 1991. Today, the third largest craft brewer in the U.S., New Belgium produces seven year-round beers; Fat Tire Amber Ale, Sunshine Wheat, Blue Paddle Pilsner, 1554 Black Ale, Abbey, Mothership Wit and Trippel, as well as a host of seasonal releases. In addition to producing world-class beers, New Belgium takes pride in being a responsible corporate role model with progressive programs such as employee ownership, open book management and a commitment to environmental stewardship. For more information, visit www.newbelgium.com.

~Information courtesy of New Belgium Brewing Company

Tuesday, April 1, 2008