Spring Has Sprung
Sorry to burst your "She's just a clodhopper-wearin', Top Pop-doughnut-eatin', band-T-shirt-stretchin', sad-existence-livin' grouch" bubble, but I happen to love spring and all its lovely hallmark moments. It's the time of year I hear from twinkly, auburn-haired Scottish boys, calling to say they'll be passing through town again soon (with the best Nirvana- and Pixies-influenced band I've heard in, oh, a couple of weeks)--and better still, from a mother calling to plug her son's new musical venture. While most modern-day Mrs. Partridges come right out and say they gave birth to the next Jack White, some are a little shy. Last week I received a thoughtful letter from "Roxy," who had gone to new Pioneer Square venue Studio Seven and been "knocked off her seat" by an opening band who "as a unit was tight musically and visually." Roxy said she'd asked someone at the table next to her just who this visually tight unit was, and lo and behold, it was a brand-new band called the Bratz. Before signing off, Roxy informed The Stranger that she's in love with not only the band's show and music, but "most of all the singer" (and his tight unit?). Take it from me, gross--but Mama loves you, baby. And if I'm mistaken in my belief that the Bratz are the subject of maternal gushing, my apologies to Roxy, who should be recognized for her excellent penmanship and letter-writing skills.
If you haven't already crossed your arms in final, ignorant, and arthritic judgment that those of us living and/or working in the Pike/Pine corridor only give a leg up to our own, check out Lipstick Traces on May 1; the store/gallery will host artist Dana Carlson, whose drawings can be seen in Fred Flare's 2003 My Teenage Rock Star Fantasy calendar. Storeowner Jenn Gallucci is a big fan of Carlson, and says the artist will be flying out from New York City to hang her show and attend what should be a fun reception, featuring the requisite Pine Street entertainment: drinks and DJ. Things start at 8:00 p.m., and Lipstick Traces is located next door to the Cha Cha, at 500 East Pine Street.
Speaking of the Pike/Pine corridor... I recently received an e-mail press release from public relations office Firmani & Associates, bragging that the Crawford, a condo building in the neighborhood, was bought into by Tooth & Nail Records and is now "geared for musicians and other lovers of the eclectic art scene." Now before you get all excited and give notice to your slumlord, all that means is that Brandon Ebel, president of the Christian-oriented label (home to Starflyer 59, Further Seems Forever, Mae, and Peace of Mind), bought himself a condo that he'll use "as a refuge for out-of-town musicians--a place for the bands to stay tuned in to Seattle's culture while they work." "Work" would be recording at the Tooth & Nail studio, housed in the 78-year-old storefront that anchors the Crawford. So the building itself is not a refuge for musicians and other (perhaps non-Christian) lovers of the eclectic art scene--just those on Tooth & Nail. I'm no Christian musician, but if I were, I'd make sure to ask Ebel up front if rooming costs are recoupable funds before moving in.
Finally, I'd like to propose to kickass Portland group Party Time, with whom I fell in love when they played the Sunset last week. Three guitarists, and songs about getting laid? Spring has sprung!
