‘RED’ Film Review
By Brian Bowers
Ok, so a good place to start is to let you know that RED (this movie title) is an acronym. You have to go see the movie to get the meaning. Well, you don’t ‘have to’ really, it’s everywhere on Google. Either way, this movie is really worth seeing. Weaving together a pretty bizarre romance into the main frame of the plot makes it a little interesting, so to speak. But it has high doses of action and drama that are sure to keep you interested.
RED is a film that chronicles the lives’ of a group of highly skilled, dangerous, retired former black-ops CIA agents. Frank Moses, the main character, is skillfully played by Bruce Willis. He starts the film off by fanning the embers of a blossoming romance with a phone agent in a Kansas City Pension office named Sarah (Mary-Louise Parker). You don’t get too far in the film before it becomes clear that Frank Moses, along with his retired colleagues and his new found love interest are in extreme danger–someone has placed hits on them.
Starring along side of Bruce Willis and Mary-Louise Parker in this highly amusing film are Morgan Freeman (Joe Matheson), Hellen Mirren (Victoria), Mary Louise-Parker (Sarah Roses), John Malkovich (Marvin Briggs) and Karl Urban (William Cooper). The film showcases all actresses and actors in top form. Originally opening 3 days ago on October 15, 2010, it has grossed a little less than $22,000,000. In any case, if you like action, comedy or ‘action-comedy’ then by all means please go see this movie. It is sure to meet your expectations and have you laughing.
Prince Announces “Welcome 2 America” Tour
By Brian Bowers
As we have mentioned before, the final quarter is always full of big news! New albums, festivals, award show announcements and the list goes on and on.
In any case, Prince recently appeared at the Apollo Theater to announce his Welcome 2 America tour that will start this winter. Artists joining him include Janelle Monae (referred to as his favorite new artist), Maceo Parker, Mint Condition, Esperanza Spalding and Graham Central Station. Though no ‘official’ kickoff date was released, Prince did explicitly mention the tour will start on a “purple day in December.” Mysterious, yet promising!
20Ten is the last studio effort by Prince and was released this past summer in July. Refusing to release the album digitally, the famed musician opted to release it as a free covermount with magazines and newspapers across Europe. The upcoming concert series should definitely be action packed and spectacular. A musical legend joining forces with other legends and up-and-coming superstars in their own right will be nothing less than amazing.
Although the artist does not have an ‘official website’ there are a number of places you can stay update on his latest happenings. Prince.org is one place that keeps updated information. If you are hoping to catch this concert, you better be on the lookout!
American Music Award Nominees Announced
It’s that time again and the American Music Award 2010 nominees are in! The impressive list of nominees in 19 categories ranging from favorite soundtrack to favorite contemporary inspirational artist was released today, October 12, 2010.
Artist of the year seems to be a pretty tough category with Lady Gaga, Katy Perry, Eminem, Ke$ha and Justin Bieber all competing for the honor—talk about competition. Katy Perry and Eminem both top the list with 5 nominations each. Other nominees include Drake (Rap/Hip-Hop Music), Carrie Underwood (Favorite Album, Favorite Female Artist), Muse (Alternative Rock), Michael Bublé (Adult Contemporary) and many more.
Be sure to check out the link here to see the entire list and actually vote for your favorite artists. The American Music Awards are scheduled to air November 21, 2010 8/7c on ABC.
The Ensemble Theater Presents Cinderella
By Brian Bowers
The phrase “Cinderella Story” is often used to express what many refer to as rags-to-riches stories. Such tales championing the victory of a down trodden protagonist have become a part of the cultural fabric of societies all over the world. The beauty of such tales is that they provide a bit of lift for the human spirit by suggesting that no matter what the circumstance, the “happily ever after” story is truly possible. Full of mysticism, fate and imagination, the classic tale of Cinderella has been reproduced countless times on stage, in print as well as in music and opera.
This winter, running from November 13 to December 26, The Ensemble Theater will be presenting the African-American Shakespeare Company’s interpretation of Cinderella on the George Hawkins Mainstage. Directed and Choreographed by Patddro Harris with Musical direction by Carlton leak, the new production will capture the distinct essence of the original while adding a new cultural and contemporary flair. To get more information about the production and how you can purchase tickets, click here or here . The opening Night Media Reception will be on November 18, 2010.
HGO Presents Madame Butterfly
Un bel dì, vedremo
levarsi un fil di fumo
sull’estremo confin del mare…
Un Bel Di , Act. II of Madame Butterfly
By Brian Bowers
The Italian text above translates to “one beautiful day, we will see a thread of smoke rising at the extreme of the sea” (from the book An Interpretive Guide to Operatic Arias). An excerpt from the gorgeous Italian operatic aria “Un Bel Di” in Act II of Madame Butterfly, this is perhaps one of the most famous arias in the Soprano repertoire. As if from a distance, the clarion voice slowly opens the phrase ‘Un, bel di’ (One Beautiful Day) pianissimo as Cio-Cio-San envisions the lovely day her beloved (Pinkerton, a US Naval Officer) will return. Set in Japan, the three act opera based on the libretto by Luigi Illica is an archetypal concoction of tragedy, betrayal and love (read a more in-depth summary here or here ). Bringing up questions of culture, gender and power, it is one of the most beloved and performed operatic works. This fall the Houston Grand Opera will be presenting the famed drama by Giacomo Puccini at Wortham Center.
Among those participating in HGO’s upcoming production, the cast members Joseph Calleja (Pinkerton), Levi Hernandez (Sharpless) and Lucy Schaufer (Suzuki) will be making their Houston Grand Opera debuts. Creative team members Christopher Oram (Set and Costume), Neil Austin (Lighting) and director Michael Grandage will also be making their debut with HGO this fall as well. Classical music lovers in Houston have always come to expect opera par excellence from HGO and one can be sure this production will be no exception. The show will run from October 22-November 5, 2010. To get more information, click here .
11:11, Rodrigo y Gabriela
By Brian Bowers
Back in high school, I vividly recall running across a quote once that stated something along the lines of “aside from silence, that which comes closest to expressing the inexpressible, is music.” It has the ability to reach the deepest parts of us as it moves us, soothes us and says everything that is beyond words. Intoxicating, hypnotic and virtuositic are a just a few words one could used to describe the sensational guitar duo Rodrigo y Gabriela. Whether in live performance or recording, when these two are joined together they create a musical force to be reckoned with. One could easily argue that the highly intimate, impassioned performances are something beyond entertainment. While the two are undoubtedly entertaining and show a level of mastery many could only wished for, on a deeper level they are communicating and conversing through the language of music in a way that is profoundly moving. Needless to say, audience and listeners alike are privied to a soulful exchange that is truly breathtaking.
In a music industry that is frequently dominated by synthesizers and electric music, it is needless to say they add a bit 
of freshness and diversity as brilliant acoustic performers. Though they aren’t the only act of this ‘genre’ they have certainly been carving their own unique place in the music industry. Since the release of the album 11:11, they’ve been setting the tour trail ablaze. Traveling all across the US, then to Zurich, London, Paris and Dublin just to name a few. In many of these cities, they have multiple tour dates. They are energetic, dedicated and they are clearly in demand. In fact, just recently, the fantastic duo performed here in Houston at the House of Blues and gave a concert that received great reviews and praise. For all of the technical prowess they demonstrate, in their music they give of themselves. They add the special “something” to a piece of music that moves it from the mind, to the heart and the spirt. That special something provides a feeling of satisfaction and nourishment at the end of a great performance. These unique qualities they possess demonstrate exactly why the demand is so great.
11:11 (first released in September 2009) is their 3rd studio effort following the 2006 release of their self-titled Rodrigo y Gabriela. The title track “11:11″ is a hauntingly gorgeous and rather mysterious piece. Characterized by infectious rhythm, the pulse is somewhat suggestive and beckons you to a place beyond where you are. The album itself is the sound of depth and passion and you can definitely listen to this cohesive work from start to finish. The effortless and fluid playing they demonstrate almost seems improvisatory. But it is clear that each song has a unique, pronounced structure that is undeniable. The seamless blend of polyrhythms, layered voices and memorable motifs are emphasized by near perfect articulations. The command they have over their music reaches straight to the core of one’s being.
The 11 theme runs through the entire album album. The title is, of course as mentioned, “11:11.” The album is comprised of 11 tracks all composed by both Rodrigo y Gabriela with John Leckie as co-producer on one of the tracks. According to their official press release, the solid album serves as a “Gracias” to music masters of the present and past that have inspired them along their path. If Rodrigo Sánchez and Gabriela Quintero continue along this path, it won’t be long before they are mentioned in the same ranks with the very masters they adore.
Click here for the video for “Hanuman!”
Restaurant Review: Central Texas BBQ
By Brian Bowers
Everyone loves a good meal, right? Well today is your lucky day if you love GREAT BBQ because we have a treat for you. One place that is definitely worth checking out even if trekking out to Pearland is the only way to get there is Central Texas BBQ. Located at 4110 Broadway St. in Pearland, this family owned place of barbeque delight has been up and running since 1969. It is so popular that depending on the time of day that you get there, you might be lined-up nearly outside the door. But trust this fact—it is certainly worth the wait.
With a take-out menu, catering menu and banquet style menu, Central BBQ’s menu items consists of a vast array of options to make sure you go home full and happy. Whether it’s a variety of their specialty plates, or fresh, delicious BBQ by the pound you can always expect the best, just check out the reviews on b4-u-eat. One particularly delicious item is their baked potato and they have a range of options. If beef is not your thing, it can come topped with moist, tender and well-seasoned chicken breast if you’d like. And last but not least, they have bread pudding that is beyond words. Seriously, there isn’t much else to say about just how wonderful the bread pudding truly is.
Open from 10 A.M.- 9 P.M., you can go get a good lunch, or take home a hefty dinner for the family. Regardless of the time of day—satisfaction is certainly guaranteed…well, as long as you get there before the crowd!
bell hooks’ All About Love, New Visions
By Brian Bowers
All about love. Ok, ok, ok. Valentine’s day is FAR away—this much is clear. But for many in our society, Valentine’s Day has become the ultimate expression of love. Candy, cards, flowers and the air of romance characterize the grandest day of the year when individuals are ‘encouraged to love.’ But one has to wonder what love is and what it truly means to be loved? It is definitnely more than a ‘once a year’ sail down the candy aisle or picking up a bouquet of roses, we can all agree. If you are interested in a good read that explores the topic of love and our conceptions, All About Love is a great place to start. Not only does hooks examine the topic, but she also explores cultural ideologies and processes of socialization that hamper our ability to love freely.
Exploring the topic of love is not only a daunting task, but it is also one that requires originality, sensitivity and vulnerability. While many discussions of love become overused displays of sentimentality, bell hooks seeks to move beyond the clichés and critically examine the topic. hooks feels that although there are many institutions, professional schools and academies that prepare us to “function” in the real world, there doesn’t exist a school that teaches us how to love.
Published in 2001 by Harper Books, hooks urges her readers to discover a new love ethic. In work that is both personal and critical, she carefully weaves together her own ideas with those of our greatest minds. Tapping into the wisdom of Peck, hooks believes love is “the will to extend one’s self for the purpose of nurturing one’s own or another’s spiritual growth.” If you are looking to get a good read and broaden your perspectives, give this one a go, you might just love it.
New Music: Have You Heard
By Brian Bowers
In the entertainment world, the ‘4th Quarter’ always seems to be the time for comeback stories, new albums and of course singles (and tons of ‘leaks’). Before you get caught up in all of the fresh sights and sounds of this season of the industry, thought it might be a good idea to give you just a few R&B/Soul standouts.
“Sometimes I Cry” Eric Benét
With the upcoming release of his 6th studio effort Lost in Time scheduled for late this year, Eric reintroduces listeners to the sounds of old school soul music. Though many artists have tried to “take it back” revisiting the sounds of the 60s and 70s, Eric truly captures the feeling of reminiscing about love lost. The finely tuned vocals are arranged masterfully over throwback sounds, transporting you to a world of depth and passion. Whether it’s the old keys or Benét accessing his falsetto, the song captures the essence of unrequited romance set to music.
“10 Seconds” Jazmine Sullivan
Often compared to Lauryn Hill, Kim Burrell and many others, the incomparable Jazmine Sullivan has been in heavy rotation everywhere recently. Following the release of her single “Holdin You Down,” the rumored follow-up single “10 Seconds” has leaked from her sophomore effort Love Me Back. The beautiful ballad features the singer’s powerful vocals and her characteristic nuances. With a theme that harkens back to the “Bust Your Windows” days of Fearless, she laments over a broken heart while warning the accused to make his exit before she “gets crazy.” Certainly all the Jazmine Sullivan fans have been scouring the internet for new music. Lets just say if you use due diligence to find “10 Seconds,” it is sure to hold you over until the official October release.
“Close to You” Ron Isley ft. Lauryn Hill
Last but not least, rounding out Have you Heard is the rendition of “Close to You” by none other than Ron Isley featuring Lauryn Hill. Following a number of personal setbacks, the famed Isley Brother had mentioned a few notables for his upcoming alum release. When the singer mentioned Lauryn Hill, many fans cried wolf. Somewhat shockingly, amidst the rumors the song leaked on to the web to great reception. Seamlesslywith a hint of magic and class, one musical generation of greatness meets the next. The depth and richness of Lauryn paired with Ron Isley’s effortless singing was a match made in heaven. This one might be hard to find folks but it’s a gem for sure. And while no new information has surfaced regarding the upcoming effort , it will be a huge success if this is any indicator. Welcome back Ronald Isley, we’ve missed you…and Lauryn too of course!
Art in Houston
By Brian Bowers
In Houston it doesn’t take long to realize just how enormous this city really is. A place known for rich cultural experiences and diversity, there are so many things to do I imagine its fairly easy to get lost. It is even more unfortunate for artvarks such as myself. To put it simply, the task of trying to find venues and events can be overwhelming.
Is there a place I can go to see a band perform Coltrane’s Love Supreme, hear a poetry reading or see Romeo and Juliet? Of course the spaces and venues exist, but knowing where to go is sometimes challenging in our ever-expanding city.
If you are looking for a one-stop place to find tons of art events and happening in Houston, www.artshound.com just might be your answer! Featuring events ranging from visual art, music, literature to dance and theater, it is an invaluable resource for art lovers and appreciators alike.
