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Did anyone happen to hear about Krist Novoselic getting the kindest of shoves from his job as celebrity DJ during the recent JAMPAC benefit held at Graceland? The theme of the evening was "prom," and I'm told Novoselic turned up with music that may have looked good but sounded snooze-ola. Organizers sensed the crowd's boredom and cut the former Nirvana bassist's set short. Don't feel bad, Krist--you obviously were a bit more evolved in your '80s listening tendencies than the rest of us Northwestern wavers and buttrockers. More than a few attendees were hoping to see the look on Novoselic's face when he caught sight of eXBeSTFRIeNDS frontman Ryan Davidson, who more and more each day is a dead ringer for Kurt Cobain. No shocked looks were reported, though. (Speaking of Davidson, I hear rumors that he and his longtime girlfriend Sue are recently engaged....)
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A friend who spent time in Los Angeles last month reports that former Seattle resident and Afghan Whigs frontman Greg Dulli is the proud proprietor of a watering hole formerly frequented by L.A.'s Finest. Located on Sunset in Echo Park--and not far from Dodger Stadium--the joint is called the Shortstop. But the only sign marking its existence is an old neon one that says "COCKTAILS." Though the bar has been remodeled, Dulli keeps the valuable cop memorabilia in a showcase in the back room.
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Now for a blind item: Have you heard about the former local label employee who has recently been linked with an infamous star of both the small and silver screen?
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A few months ago, I was approached by a man who claimed he was putting together an all-male Madonna tribute band. Apparently he was serious, because a band calling itself Mandonna is scheduled to play the Breakroom on Thursday, July 19. Because I was mortified at being recognized and schmoozed at one of Capitol Hill's sleaziest fast-food joints (and I've supposedly been on the Atkins Diet for the past two years--last time I checked, a big tub of mashed potatoes and gravy was absolutely not on the Atkins list), I grabbed my paper sack of carbohydrates and bolted before inquiring whether Mandonna featured cone bras and crucifixes, or rhinestones and cowgirl gear. If you're as curious as I am, you'll head down to the Breakroom to see for yourself.
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Finally, the folks at the Showbox would like everyone to be aware of the fact that the Built to Spill show on Saturday, June 30 is now 21+ with doors at 8 p.m. Kids or teetotalers who bought tickets for Saturday's show with the intention of it being all-ages should attend the Thursday, June 28 show, which remains--steadfast and ticket sales be damned--all-ages.
