Curious Encounters

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12:22 p.m., April 28, 2017, Woodruff Park, 91 Peachtree St. N.W.

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Developers, neighbors rap community investment plan for Turner Field area revamp BY Sean Keenan

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Plus: Clermont lounge reopens and lois reitzes visits Dad’s Garage BY aliCia CarTer

Alon’s celebrates 25 years Chef and owner alon Balshan of alon’s Bakery and market looks back on a quarter century of pastries

JoNaTHaN SPLiTLoG

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Is the CIP the new CBA?

Curious encounters

BY GraCe HuSeTH

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Summer Movie Preview 2017

This year’s film assembly line builds new models out of old parts BY CurT Holman

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23 Atlanta music festivals at a glance From Shaky Knees to a3C 2017 has something for everyone BY SavannaH elDer

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CLATL.COM | 404.688.5623 PUBLISHER • SHaRRy SmItH [email protected] EDItOR-IN-CHIEF • CaRLtON HaRgRO [email protected] ART DIRECTOR • Wes Duvall MANAGING EDITOR • Alicia Carter MUSIC EDITOR • Chad Radford FOOD EDITOR • Hilary Cadigan ASSISTANT EDITOR • Adjoa Danso PHOTO EDITOR • Joeff Davis GRAPHIC DESIGNERS • Katy Barrett-Alley, Amy Gomoljak, Abbie Leali, Liz Loewenstein, Melanie Mays, Jonathan Splitlog CONTRIBUTING WRITERS • Cliff Bostock, Ben Braunstein, Olivia Cathcart, Caroline Cox, Paul DeMerritt, Gavin Godfrey, Angela Hansberger, Curt Holman, Hal Horowitz, Jacinta Howard, Grace Huseth, Brad Kaplan, Sean Keenan, James Kelly, Meagan Mastriani, Bobby Moore, Camille Pendley, Bobby Power, Sucheta Rawal, Austin L. Ray, Tai Saint-Louis, Ben Salmon, Montana Samuels, Joe Spiccia, Bobbin Wages CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS • Dustin Chambers, Brandon English, Perry Julien, Erik Meadows, Mia Yakal INTERNS • Jacob Chisenhall, Nyasha Drakes, Savannah Elder, Kevin Fuentes, Hilleary Gramling, Essence Oliver OPERatIONS maNagER • KaRtRINa tHOmaS [email protected] DIRECtOR OF maRKEtINg, PROmOtIONS aND EvENtS • NICK taPP [email protected] SALES EXECUTIVES • David Clapper, Andrew Cylar, Justis Godfree, Megan Hoot, Carrie Karas, Taylor Long, Julie Romano SALES ASSISTANT • Connie Irvin CHIEF EXECUtIvE OFFICER • BEN EaSON NatIONaL aDvERtISINg SaLES VMG Advertising 1-888-278-9866 or 1-212-475-2529 SR. VP OF SALES • Susan Belair SR. VP OF SALES OPERATIONS • Joe Larkin

This week’s cover features a photo by Eric Charbonneau. Design by Wes Duvall. Creative Loafing © is published by CL Atlanta, LLC, www.creativeloafing.com 115 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, Suite 301, Atlanta, GA 30303. Periodicals Postage Paid at Atlanta GA. Creative Loafing is printed on a 90% recycled stock. It may be recycled further, please do your part. Distribution, Rack/Box Sales, Consulting, SIMNet of Georgia

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Catlanta to the rescue, Atlanta’s evolution and lockdowns at the Detention Center

Joeff Davis/CL file

ON THE INSIDE: A look at the interior of the Atlanta Detention Center

Detention Center faCes loCkDowns amiD protests

The Atlanta City Detention Center (ACDC) was put on lockdown last week for more than 24 hours, an unusually long amount of time according to detainees. The lockdown follows another the week prior, which took place during a protest outside the jail calling for the facility to be shut down. Protesters at the April 21 demonstration, organized by Georgia Detention Watch, accused the city’s criminal justice system of using incarceration for profit-driven purposes. While lockdowns are routine, they generally last one to three hours. Last week’s, which lasted from Tuesday morning to Wednesday

mid-day, is by far the longest detainees have experienced, at least in the last seven months, according to Silvio Condomina, a 58-year-old immigration detainee from Cuba who has been at ACDC for as long. A spokesperson with the city says the jail was “on temporary lockdown this week for routine maintenance and upgrades to the camera system.” One officer told Condomina that it was an “emergency situation,” noting that the situation had been resolved when the lockdown was lifted. The city’s spokesperson adds that detainees were put on emergency lockdown on April 21 during the noon protest “for the safety and security of both DOC staff and detainees,” according to a city spokesperson. Some immigration detainees were in the recreation area during the April 21 protest at noon that Friday and could hear the protesters’ chants — among them calls for judges to speed up immigration cases and accusations of attorneys treating detainees as “ATM machines” for the representation of drawn-out legal proceedings. “I was hearing people screaming on the micro-

phones,” says Javier Rodriguez, an 18-year-old immigration detainee from Mexico who has lived in the U.S. all his life, “[but] as soon as the protest started we got locked down early.” A Georgia Detention Watch statement for the demonstration includes a list of complaints by immigration detainees, including “basic requests such as access to overnight mail delivery for legal documents, an end to indefinite detention and excessively high bonds, adequate nutrition, and the right to hearings after long stays in solitary confinement.” Condomina refused his medication, for diabetes and high-blood pressure, on Wednesday last week at 10 a.m. in protest of the long lockdown and jail staff’s refusal to give any reason for it. By noon the same day, at lunchtime, detainees in one unit were ready to refuse their lunch and were demanding to speak to authorities. “Ten minutes after we refused [lunch], the lockdown was lifted,” Condomina reported. On average in Georgia, immigration detainees wait almost two years — 624 days, or more than 20 months — for their court date. There

are more than 16,000 pending immigration cases in Georgia. — Camille Pendley

Catlanta helps out Commuters In the weeks since the infamous combustion and collapse of an overpass on I-85, the metro Atlanta traffic situation (already known for being terrible) has gone from bad to worse to comedic. Highlighting major issues with Atlanta public roadways, fortunately without reported injuries, the I-85 collapse has presented the opportunity to address the serious nature of transportation problems in ATL with humor. Memes and Waze app downloads continue to spring from the shutdown of the highway. In the aftermath, some turn to Twitter, others turn to art. See Briefs p.6 clatl.com ❘ MAY 4 - MAY 10, 2017 ❘ 5

NEWS

briefs

Briefs from p.5

Local artist Rory Hawkins, aka Catlanta, who is known for his surprise “kitten drops,” free public art left around the city for locals to collect, has come up with his own reaction to the disaster. “I was joking with friends about the collapse (only after we found out there were no injuries) and decided then that I would try my best to create a piece to put out the next morning,” Hawkins says. “It was obvious to me that this was a big event for Atlanta, so I wanted to jump into the conversation. I think as Atlantans, we can be kinda harsh when joking about our town, so I wanted to poke fun at the situation while also offering a tiny bit of hope and love for this city.” The “Bridge Kitten” T-shirt went live for pre-sale April 16, depicting the beloved Catlanta kitten bridging the gap left by the collapse of the highway with the caption “Hang in there, Catlanta.” Twenty percent of proceeds from the pre-sale benefitted the Santa Fe Villas, a former hotel turned apartment complex that provides permanent housing for homeless individuals living in Atlanta. “I’m so happy this image can go from just being an Instagram post to help raising funds for people in the city,” Hawkins says. “I hope the shirts provide a chuckle but also a sense of hope for the future of Atlanta. We can and will make it through this together!” A new batch of shirts is in production now, and 20 percent of the proceeds will again benefit Santa Fe Villas. Keep checking Catlanta’s website (catlanta.bigcartel.com) and Facebook page for updates. — Hilleary GramlinG

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The researchers behind a new study from the Center for State and Local Finance at Georgia State University said that when they showed their colleagues maps revealing how much the Atlanta metro area had changed in demographics since 1970, their jaws dropped. According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau, the cumulative population of African-Americans, Hispanics and Asians doubled from 22 percent to 44 percent over the last 45 years. Researchers also found that more people in the metro area are collegeeducated, the percentage of middle-class families decreased and the population increased by more than 300 percent. “Over the years,” study co-author Lakshmi Pandey, a senior research associate, said in a statement, “we have been looking at pieces

“I hope the shIrts provIde a chuckle but also a sense of hope for the future of atlanta. we can and wIll make It through thIs together!” — Catlanta of the data, but when you put it all together and lay the maps side by side, it more clearly tells the story of how a small, Southern city grew up to become a large, cultural metropolis.” Of particular interest is the finding that more people of varying backgrounds are living in the same areas. DeKalb County, for example, was mostly inhabited by white people in 1970. Today, it is much more diverse, with a higher percentage of African-Americans now living in the southern part of the county and increasing numbers of Hispanics in the central and northern areas. “We’re still relatively segregated, but that’s been going down fairly significantly,” says study co-author David Sjoquist, professor of economics at the Andrew Young School of Policy Studies, via phone. In the city of Atlanta today, more blacks make up the population than whites, and there are even fewer Asians and Hispanics. While the study did not look at racism, Sjoquist says the data suggests people in the area are getting along a little better than historically. “Before, if blacks moved in [to an area], whites moved out,” he says, and that’s not happening as often. That’s not to say there aren’t issues here. Last week, two former Gwinnett County cops — who are white — were arrested and charged with felony crime of violating their oath of office and misdemeanor battery after video footage surfaced showing them kicking and punching a black motorist while he was handcuffed. “Atlanta is not perfect,” Sjoquist says. “It’s far from perfect, but the racial culture here appears much better than a lot of other cities. And that’s reflected in the fact that the races are integrating geographically.” C — Kimberly lawson

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Is the CIP the new CBA? Developers, neighbors rap community investment plan for Turner Field area revamp

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COMING SOON: Will GSU’s redevelopment of Turner Field and surrounding neighborhoods displace residents?

By sean Keenan

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eorgia State University, its development partners and some neighborhood organizations have whipped up an agreement that could sate activists’ yearning for an “anti-gentrification” contract to protect Turner Field neighbors. The Turner Field Community Benefits Coalition has fought tooth and nail — and camped out — for weeks to secure a meeting with GSU’s development team in an attempt to make city officials and developers conscious of residents’ displacement worries. On April 24, representatives from the group sat with Atlanta Councilwoman Carla Smith, Council President Ceasar Mitchell and Georgia State’s development partners to hash out details of the document drafted to suffice for the community benefits agreement (CBA) that the coalition has long lobbied for. But the new “community investment plan,” (CIP) which offers job training, affordable housing promises and opportunities for minority-run businesses in the area, hasn’t quelled the coalition’s desire to fulfill the CBA’s demands, according to Tim Franzen, a leader of the organization and co-founder of the advocacy group Housing Justice League. “[The CIP] is not binding at all,” he tells Creative Loafing. “If [developers] are afraid of signing [a CBA], they are unaccountable to the community they seek to extract wealth from.” Franzen laments that stadium developers came to power a $300 million real estate project — redevelopment of the ballpark and surrounding parking lots — for a mere $30 million buy. “That makes [GSU and development partner Carter] the greatest welfare recipients in the community for

decades. We can’t have that yet again,” he says, referring to the 1965 development of the nowcrumbled Fulton County Stadium. The affordable housing initiatives lobbed by the CIP, Franzen says, aren’t up to par either. GSU and Carter, in their CIP proposal, suggest earmarking 10 percent of slated residential units for affordable living — 80 percent of the area median income. Still, Coalition members in attendance called the meeting “productive,” and Scott Taylor, Carter’s CEO, says the conversation is just beginning. “I think we all agree on wanting a safe environment; we want better infrastructure, we want it to be inclusive, we want equality,” he says, adding that the development group is open to amending the CIP. Mitchell, who’s voiced support for a benefits agreement in the past, says the sit-down was “spirited.” “People had a chance to be candid, and I think the good thing is that we’ll all be getting together again,” he tells CL, noting plans for a future meeting. Much to the coalition’s chagrin, however, Taylor doubled down on assertions that Carter will never sign a CBA: “We have always said that we are not willing to sign a community benefits agreement for a number of reasons. But we are willing to discuss different versions of that going forward.” Smith, who orchestrated last week’s meeting, says the Coalition now has “a seat at the table.” “I’m hopeful that all the neighborhood groups can come together to work on a document that everyone can agree with [to benefit the area].” The date and time of the next meeting have yet to be decided. C [email protected]

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This year’s film assembly line builds new models out of old parts Alien: Covenant What’s it about? A colony ship called The Covenant reaches a new planet only to find that it’s already inhabited by familiar, hostile beings who don’t like to share. What’s old about it? This immediate sequel to 2012’s Prometheus is either the sixth or eighth Alien movie, depending on whether you count the Alien vs. Predator ones. It’s also the third directed by Ridley Scott and brings back Prometheus’ Michael Fassbender as an android. What’s new about it? The other victims — I mean, actors— include James Franco, Fantastic Beasts’ Katherine Waterston, Billy Crudup, Carmen Ejogo and Danny McBride for comic relief. When does it open? May 19

Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales What’s it about? Unsteady swashbuckler Captain Jack Sparrow (Johnny Depp) must find the Trident of Poseidon to stop Armando Salazar (Javier Bardem), a ghost out for revenge. Disney/marvel

What’s old about it? The series’ fifth installment brings back previous co-stars Geoffrey Rush and Orlando Bloom, and looks an awful lot like the first one, Curse of the Black Pearl.

TEEN DREAM: Tom Holland is the latest (and youngest) actor to play Spider-Man in this summer’s cinematic iteration of the comic book hero.

By Curt Holman

H

ollywood’s new releases never look older than during summer blockbuster season. Starting the first Friday in May, the motion picture industry demonstrates its commitment to familiar properties and long-running franchises. This business model leads to movies that can seem a bit stale while costing a king’s ransom, but it has some upsides — especially locally. Marvel Studios, which built the “shared universe” model so many other films seek to emulate, is now filming most of its productions in Georgia, particularly at Fayetteville’s Pinewood Studios. British director Edgar Wright’s local productions show the dichotomy of film franchises vs. independent artistry. Wright walked away from filming Ant-Man in Atlanta due to creative differences and clearly feeling constrained by Marvel’s “house style.” But Wright gets the last laugh with his ATL-shot action-comedy Baby Driver (opening June 28), which received ecstatic reviews at South by Southwest. Baby Driver looks like a light-hearted example of the “getaway driver” heist film formula, but given that it’s not based on a pre-existing work or other intellectual property, it seems wildly original during months dominated by the likes of Despicable Me 3 or Baywatch. The pages that follow preview summer releases based on their newest and oldest qualities. (All release dates subject to change.)

Guardians of the Galaxy, Vol. 2 What’s it about? Peter “Star-Lord” Quill (Chris Pratt) and his cosmic cohorts return for more outer space adventures, which include a mysterious alien (Kurt Russell) who may be Star-Lord’s father. (See review on page 12.)

What’s new about it? The new directorial team (Norway’s Joachim Ronning and Espen Sandberg) seems to be overseeing a fresh take on the supernatural CGI effects. When does it open? May 26

Wonder Woman

What’s old about it? As the title suggests, it’s the second of the Guardians films, while also being the 15th entry in the interconnected Marvel Cinematic Universe going back to 2008’s Iron Man.

What’s it about? After a U.S. pilot (Chris Pine) crashes on a mysterious island of Amazons, Princess Diana (Gal Gadot) defies tradition and leaves for the outside world, where she becomes caught up in World War I.

What’s new about it? Along with Russell, additions include the telepathic Mantis (Pom Klementieff), the imperious Ayesha (Elizabeth Debicki) and apparently a role for Sylvester Stallone (so the film features both Tango and Cash). In general, Guardians delivers the brightest, kitschiest take on comic books at the multiplex.

What’s old about it? An iconic comic book heroine dating back to 1941, Wonder Woman may be best known to nonfans for the 1970s TV series with Lynda Carter. Gadot’s first appearance as Wonder Woman was the highlight of last year’s Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice.

When does it open? May 5

What’s new about it? It’s Wonder Woman’s first See Summer Moview Preview p.10 clatl.com ❘ MAY 4 - MAY 10, 2017 ❘ 9

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s u m m e r m ov i e p r e v i e w DAniEL SMiTh; DiSnEy/MArvEL; WiLSon WEBB; QuAnTrELL CoLBErT

Summer Moview Preview from p.9

BOX OFFICE BONANZA: (from left) Rihanna stars in Luc Besson’s Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets; Ansel Elgort (from left), Jamie Foxx, Eiza Gonzalez and Jon Hamm plan a heist in Baby Driver; Demetrius Shipp Jr. portrays Tupac in All Eyez on Me; Elizabeth Debicki is the enigmatic alien Ayesha in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2. Summer Movie Preview from p.9

big-screen star vehicle, and the pressure’s on Monster director Patty Jenkins to lighten up DC Comics’ film series after last year’s ill-received (but financially successful) Batman v Superman and Suicide Squad. The trailers promise a fresh, feminist angle on superheroics. When does it open? June 2

The Mummy What’s it about? An American military team (led by Tom Cruise) accidentally releases the mummy of an Egyptian princess (Sofia Boutella), who wreaks havoc on modern Europe. What’s old about it? It’s the fourth of The Mummy movies since 1999, resurrecting a series that emphasizes action over horror. What’s new about it? It’s meant to launch a Universal Monsters horror franchise and co-stars Russell Crowe as Dr. Jekyll. Future projects reportedly will star Javier Bardem as Frankenstein and Johnny Depp as the Invisible Man. Whether the continuity includes 2014’s Dracula Untold isn’t entirely clear. When does it open? June 9

Cars 3 What’s it about? After a shocking accident, sentient race car Lightning McQueen (voiced by Owen Wilson) considers a comeback with the help of new trainer Cruz Ramirez (Cristela Alonzo). What’s old about it? It’s the third in Pixar’s hugely popular Cars trilogy, not counting shorts like “Mater’s Tall Tales.” What’s new about it? New voice actors include Kerry Washington, Nathan Fillion and Lea 10 ❘ MAY 4 - MAY 10, 2017 ❘ clatl.com

DeLaria, but it otherwise looks like the same old model with a fresh coat of paint. When does it open? June 16

All Eyez on Me What’s it about? This hip-hop biopic tracks the rapid rise and untimely end of rapper/activist Tupac Shakur (Demetrius Shipp Jr.). What’s old about it? Taking its title from Shakur’s last studio album, this recreation of hiphop history is scheduled for release on Shakur’s 46th birthday. What’s new about it? Best known for music videos, director Benny Boom casts “The Walking Dead’s” Danai Gurira as Shakur’s mother and Jamal Woolard as Biggie Smalls. It was partially shot in Atlanta, so look out for familiar locations. When does it open? June 16

Transformers: The Last Knight What’s it about? The humans are fighting the Autobots — you know, the good alien robots — for some reason or another. And then Autobot leader Optimus Prime returns to attack his old allies? Say it ain’t so, Optimus! What’s old about it? Most of the human cast — including Mark Wahlberg, Stanley Tucci, Josh Duhamel and Tyrese Gibson — are veterans of the four previous films, with series director Michael Bay claiming this will be his fifth and final one. What’s new about it? Sir Anthony Hopkins provides exposition about Transformers that were around in medieval times and could turn into dragons and whatnot. When does it open? June 23

The House

War for the Planet of the Apes

What’s it about? Will Ferrell and Amy Poehler play suburban parents who run a black market casino to secretly earn college tuition for their daughter.

What’s it about? Following the failed truce between the human survivors and intelligent primates in Dawn of the Planet of the Apes, open war threatens the survival of both species.

What’s old about it? I’m not saying Ferrell is getting up in years, but it’s been a while since he ruled Hollywood comedies with the likes of Anchorman and, uh, Old School.

What’s old about it? Going back to 1968, this is the ninth Planet of the Apes film and the third in the current cycle, after Rise and Dawn, featuring Andy Serkis’ impressive motion-capture performance as the apes’ sensitive leader Caesar.

What’s new about it? It’s the directorial debut of Andrew J. Cohen, who wrote the popular Neighbors movies. Poehler looks like a good match with Ferrell, and the hilarious Jason Mantzoukas may have a breakout role as a would-be casino mogul.

What’s new about it? New human characters include Woody Harrelson as a belligerent colonel and Amiah Miller as a human orphan called “Nova” in a nod to the original series. Returning director Matt Reeves seems to have amped up the scale of the combat scenes.

When does it open? June 30 When does it open? July 14

Spider-Man: Homecoming What’s it about? Teenage Peter Parker (Tom Holland), aka Spider-Man, tries to balance high school demands while proving his worth as a hero to The Avengers’ Tony Stark (Robert Downey Jr.). What’s old about it? It’s the sixth Spider-Man movie in 15 years and, following Guardians, the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s 16th release. We first met Holland’s scene-stealing Spider-Man in last year’s Captain America: Civil War. What’s new about it? Reportedly director Jon Watts spins this as Spidey’s first film to explore his life as a high schooler, citing John Hughes’ 1980s comedies as a model. Co-starring Michael Keaton as the villainous Vulture, the cast includes Donald Glover and Zendaya. When does it open? July 7

Dunkirk What’s it about? Allied soldiers surrounded by the German Army must evacuate Dunkirk beach following the disastrous Battle of France. What’s old about it? Expect an impeccable recreation of 1940 military history from Christopher Nolan (of Inception and The Dark Knight trilogy). What’s new about it? Actors enlisted include Tom Hardy, Mark Rylance, Kenneth Branagh and Cillian Murphy in one of the first big Oscar contenders of 2017. When does it open? July 21

Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets What’s it about? In the 28th century, peacekeepers Valerian and Laureline (Dane DeHaan See Summer Moview Preview p.12

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Summer Movie Preview from p.10

and Cara Delevingne) take a mission to protect a space-based “city” that contains countless alien races and environments.

Review: Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 Plot takes back seat to comedy and character in delightful, exhaustive comic book movie

What’s old about it? It’s based on a longrunning French sci-fi comic book that began in 1967 but is pretty obscure in the United States. In 1997, director Luc Besson helmed the similarly eye-catching The Fifth Element. What’s new about it? The space operatic art direction looks absolutely astonishing — we’ll see if the story offers more than eye candy and Rihanna as an interstellar cabaret singer. When does it open? July 21

The Dark Tower

What’s old about it? It’s based on a longrunning book series by Stephen King that debuted in the early 1980s and blurs the lines between the horror, fantasy and Western genres. What’s new about it? King has hinted that the film represents both a sequel and a reboot of the books, giving director Nikolaj Arcel permission to put his own spin on it. When does it open? Aug. 4

Detroit What’s it about? A Detroit police raid centered on the Algiers Motel leads to one of the largest and most notorious riots in U.S. history. What’s old about it? The docudrama from Oscar-winning director Kathryn Bigelow is being released nearly 50 years to the day of the actual event. What’s new about it? Starring The Force Awakens’ John Boyega, Detroit couldn’t be more relevant to the Black Lives Matter movement and the economic plight of the titular city. When does it open? Aug. 4 C [email protected]

12 ❘ MAY 4 - MAY 10, 2017 ❘ clatl.com

Disney/marvel

What’s it about? An 11-year-old boy (Tom Taylor) from our world becomes embroiled in a conflict between a noble gunslinger (Idris Elba) and a charismatic sorcerer (Matthew McConaughey) from an alternate reality. MEETING OF THE MINDLESS: Dave Bautista (from left), Zoe Saldana and Chris Pratt in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2

By Curt Holman

W

hile becoming one of the most successful and influential entertainment brands in Hollywood, the movies of Marvel Studios earned some knocks. As an interlocking series, the movies’ music and cinematography tend to be drab and samey, with visually unadventurous direction and forgettable soundtracks. A notable exception is Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2. Like its predecessor from 2014, the goofball space opera splashes wild color schemes across the universe, accompanied by pop hits from the 1970s and ’80s. Marvel lets writer/director James Gunn run riot with imagination and humor without straying too far from the studios’ house style. Beginning with a delightful opening title sequence, Guardians Vol. 2 makes comedy, character beats and complicated set pieces its priorities, putting plot in the back seat. Given the lovable rogues and such an expansive toy box to play with, the approach seems irresistible. But running more than two hours, Guardians Vol. 2 can feel like too much fun for its own good, like eating nothing but candy for dinner. Shortly after the events of the first film, Earth-born Peter “Star-Lord” Quill (Chris Pratt) still adjusts to his role leading a band of misfits. Coolly efficient Gamora (Zoe Saldana) deflects Peter’s casual flirtations. Literal-mind-

ed Drax (Dave Bautista) roars with laughter while rushing into danger. Genetically altered raccoon Rocket (voiced by Bradley Cooper) competes fiercely with Peter. And plant-creature Groot (voiced by Vin Diesel), following his sacrifice in the last film, has been reborn as a tough but adorable toddler. After outraging an imperious race called the Sovereign, the Guardians flee for their lives. A shaggy spacefarer called Ego (Kurt Russell) comes to their rescue and claims to have the key to Peter’s mysterious heritage. With his empathic assistant, Mantis (Pom Klementieff), Ego invites Peter and company to his home planet — where it turns out he may actually be the planet. Russell superbly fits the dynamic, conveying grounded charm whether he’s recounting the origins of the universe or bonding with Peter over the lyrics to “Brandy (You’re a Fine Girl).” Some franchises hammer home the importance of family (*cough* Fast and Furious), paying lip service to wholesome values to justify for hours of mindless destruction. Guardians Vol. 2 provides a persistent through-line about parenting, especially fatherhood. Peter wavers between two father figures, Ego and Yondu (Michael Rooker), the space-pirate who raised him. Gamora’s murderous rivalry with her sister Nebula (Karen Gillan) stems from their abusive upbringing. And Rocket’s hilarious lessons to Baby Groot alternate between nurturing calm and sputtering impatience.

Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2

HHHII Directed by James Gunn. Stars Chris Pratt, Kurt Russell. Rated PG-13. Opens May 5. At area theaters.

Speaking of that duo, the talking raccoon and tree carry as much emotional weight as the live actors while functioning as mischievous, real-world versions of slapstick Looney Tunes heroes. Guardians Vol. 2 feels like a movie, cartoon, video game and compilation album all rolled into one. The side effect of the film’s playful aimlessness is that most of the characters don’t develop or “arc” very much, while some of Gunn’s favorite jokes grow repetitive — his script could have used some judicious editing. Plus, the songs of Peter’s late mother’s “Awesome Mix” tape become a bit of a crutch, adding pathos that the scenes can’t carry on their own. Most Marvel movies end with at least one closing credits scene to crack a final joke or to set up another film. Guardians Vol. 2 delivers so many stingers, Gunn is clearly using the gimmick while making fun of it. Guardians Vol. 2 seems to draw influence from the world-building of Star Wars, as well as the irreverence of Spaceballs. It just puts a few too many balls in the air. C [email protected]

arts

eventS

Curious Encounters

Plus: Clermont Lounge reopens and Lois Reitzes visits Dad’s Garage re-opening for Wed., May 10. Dry Gulch is scheduled to perform. 9 p.m. Wed., May 10. Clermont Lounge, 789 Ponce de Leon Ave. N.E. 404-874-4783. www.clermontlounge.net.

Stungun PhotograPhy

PLAY TIME: 7 Stages presents Curious Queer Encounters, featuring Ki Crowell (from left), Jared Dawson and Corian Ellisor.

By alicia carter

7

Stages presents the world premiere of Curious Queer Encounters this Thurs., May 4. Curated by Michael Haverty, Curious Queer Encounters features seven local ensembles and artists’ original works meant to represent and redefine queer culture. The interactive performances will be performed in and around 7 Stages, and audience members are free to roam throughout the space. Participating artists include Jared Dawson, Rebecca Makus, Jed Drummond, Jim Grimsley, Heidi S. Howard, Matthew Terrell, Jason Livingston, Jessica Unker and Corian Ellisor. $15-$22.50. Thurs.-Sun., May 4-14. 7 Stages Theatre, 1105 Euclid Ave. N.E. 404-523-7647. www.7stages.org. Atlanta Ballet presents OFFStage: Party in the Garden at Whitespace this Thurs., May 4. The event will feature the Women in the Arts Talk, a conversation between choreographer Helen Pickett and Whitespace artist Bojana Ginn, moderated by Lee Foster, managing director of Theatrical Outfit; an art installation by Bojana Ginn; and beer and wine. Free; RSVP to [email protected]. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Thurs., May 4. Whitespace, 814 Edgewood Ave. N.E. 404-688-1892. www.atlantaballet.com. SOAR: be bold. be brave. believe. is a dance performance inspired by artists whose boldness have movements. SOAR is created and

performed in collaboration with Moving in the Spirit, a youth development program that creates compassionate leaders through the art of dance. DJ Santiago Paramo will provide a live soundtrack for the performance. $10-$20. 7-8 p.m. Thurs., May 4. Rialto Center for the Arts, 88 Forsyth St. N.W. 404-413-9849. rialto.gsu.edu. SCAD FASH presents Project Diaspora, a series of short documentaries and music videos that “explore the relationships between Africa, global fashion and pop culture” as part of its REEL to REAL film series. The series is in conjunction with Omar Victor Diop’s exhibition Project Diaspora, which features 18 works that explore the historical relationships between Africa and the rest of the world through trade, early diplomatic encounters and the legacy of slavery (on view through Aug. 20). 7-8 p.m. Thurs., May 4. SCAD FASH Museum of Fashion and Film, 1600 Peachtree St. 404-253-3132. www.scadfash.org. Jeremy McCleary’s solo show, Cosmic Year, features the artist’s ink on paper and canvas works that illustrate complex relationships manifested through miniature worlds, including spiderwebs, cosmos, plants and more. Opening reception: 7-11 p.m. Fri., May 5. On view through June 30. Hi-Lo Press, 696 Charles Allen Drive N.E. 678-632-3346. www.facebook.com/hilopress. The Clermont Lounge, Poncey-Highland’s notorious strip club that’s been closed since January for renovations, has rescheduled its grand

Venture into Mother Nature with Atlanta History Center’s Magic Mondays, a monthly themed event designed for toddlers and preschoolers with guided explorations through the center’s exhibitions. This month, kids can explore the historic gardens, help out with the Smith Family Farm and learn about the importance of recycling. $5.50-$6.50. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Mon., May 8. Atlanta History Center, 130 W. Paces Ferry Road N.W. 404-814-4000. www.atlantahistorycenter.com. Dad’s Garage’s Story Spot invites local personalities to the stage to share personal tales. Improvisors then create a scene inspired by each of the stories. This Friday’s Story Spot will feature one of Atlanta’s most recognizable radio voices, Lois Reitzes. $16.50-$23.50. 8 p.m. Fri., May 5. Dad’s Garage Theatre Company, 569 Ezzard St. 404-523-3141. www.dadsgarage.com. The sharp-tongued contestants from “RuPaul’s Drag Race” take the stage for Haters Roast: The Shady Tour to talk about everything from politics and love to social media — and are sure to spill the tea all night. $38-$82. 8 p.m. Center Stage, 1374 W. Peachtree St. 404-885-1365. www.centerstage-atlanta.com. May the fourth be with you: Venkman’s hosts a free screening of Mel Brooks’ classic farce Spaceballs. Featuring the comedic talents of John Candy, Rick Moranis, Bill Pullman and Joan Rivers, among others. For the uninitiated, Spaceballs takes on Star Wars and isn’t afraid to poke fun at itself. 9 p.m. Thurs., May 4. Venkman’s, 740 Ralph McGill Blvd. N.E. 404225-6162. www.venkmans.com. The comedians of “Wild ‘N Out” take the stage at Uptown Comedy Corner for the Freestyle Funny Comedy Show. Chico Bean, BDaht, Darren Brand and OsamaBinDrankin tailor each show to the audience with a mix of improv, stand-up and crowd-participation games. $15-$25. Fri., May 5, 8 p.m. and 10:30 p.m.; Sat., May 6, 7 p.m., 9 p.m. and 11 p.m.; Sun., May 7, 8 p.m. Atlanta’s Original Uptown Comedy Corner, 800 Marietta St. N.W. 404-881-0200. www.uptowncomedy.net. C [email protected]

View more events at clatl.com/events.

15 FOOD

f i r st lo o k

Bacchanalia redux

Atlanta’s farm-to-table fine dining pioneer moves even farther west, and continues to shine

Joeff davis pHotos

WORKS OF ART: Capra Gia with beets and edible flowers on a goat cheese pancake; the new Bacchanalia is located in a purpose-built space on Ellsworth Industrial Boulevard.

By Hilary Cadigan

F

rom Buckhead to the Westside, Bacchanalia has made a name for itself not only as Atlanta’s fine dining standardbearer, but also as its master of subtle reinvention. Born inside a restored Piedmont Road house back in 1993, the restaurant eschewed popular trends from the start, trading ’90s flash for well-crafted dishes made from seasonal, local ingredients. After culinary school in San Francisco and a kitchen stint with the late, great Judy Rodgers, husband-and-wife team Anne Quatrano and Clifford Harrison helped bring the precepts of California’s food revolution to Atlanta. By 1999, Bacchanalia had outgrown its original location. When the duo decided to move to a former meatpacking plant on Howell Mill Road (then considered little more than industrial wasteland), they proved themselves again ahead of the curve. Today, the Westside Provisions District buzzes with business, but after a recent rent hike Quatrano, Harrison and team decided to leave their now-comfortable digs to once again make like pioneers and head farther west. This past April, after a brief delay, Bacchanalia rose again: a purpose-built 8,717-squarefoot beast of glass and wood in the middle of still-industrial Blandtown. It shares space (and an enormous kitchen) with gourmet market Star Provisions, which includes a seasonal and reasonably priced fast-casual restaurant serving all-day breakfast, sandwiches, boards, bowls and pizza alongside the carefully curated kitchen artillery.

Inside Bacchanalia, it’s all exposed steel beams, wood floors and buttery caramel leather banquettes repurposed from Little Bacch, which shuttered at the end of last year. 150 Edison bulbs hang at staggered lengths and walls of intricately woven rope fiber, made by local textile artist Sonya Yong James, section off areas for private dining. Quatrano’s cousin, Frederick Knight, made the tables with wood repurposed from a fallen tree. Brass lamps with adjustable lighting don each one (perfect for staging your own little Instagram plate shoot). Outside, an herb garden grows dandelion greens, mint, lemon balm and dill. Inspired by Summerland, Quatrano’s family farm in Cartersville, Georgia, where much of the restaurant’s produce is grown, the space is a collaboration between Quatrano, Harrison and design firm Perkins+Will. It’s sleek yet cozy, evoking a sense of calm, though the restaurant buzzes with activity — sommeliers waxing poetic, cheese carts rolling by, an endless parade of artfully plated dishes streaming from the kitchen. Menus are once again prix fixe: four courses priced at a rather steep $95 a head. Wine pairings — an expansive selection ranging from Germany to Napa — will cost another $50ish for three glasses. Eating at the bar is a bit more accessible if you aren’t looking to leave broke and bloated; individually priced items still ain’t cheap, but there you can order them a la carte. That said, broke and bloated (also the name of my new mixtape, dropping soon) is kind of the desired endgame at Bacchanalia, and to get the full experience, prix fixe is where it’s at.

melty blanket over small chunks of boiled potato, Executive chef Joe Schafer offers six seasonal cabbage and rye croutons. Capra Gia resembles options per course, with little complimentary an Easter basket: tiny clouds of creamy goat gifts from the kitchen — like hamster-size cheese nestled amid three types of beets, spring amuse-bouches and strawberry ice — sprinkled onion, sprigs of dill and a vibrant mix of edible throughout what will likely be a three-hour flowers atop a crisp goat cheese pancake. dinner. If someone else is paying, add caviar You’ll likely have little space left by the time service ($68-$120, depending on the source) you reach dessert, as I learned the hard way after or fruits de mer for two ($60). There’s also a ordering chocolate cake at the start of the meal. seasonal Summerland vegetable add-on; right An intimidating rectangle of dense chocolate now, it’s roasted beets with chermoula, feta and topped with turrets of dried olives pistachios for $8. sat beside an oblong scoop of olFirst courses are hearty and Bacchanalia ive oil ice cream and a tiny pile of protein-heavy. Massive veal sweet1460 Ellsworth toasted groats. It was delicious, but I breads come with maitake mushIndustrial was far too full to give it its due. The rooms and tender stalks of cardoon. Blvd. N.W. clementine soufflé was a bit easier to Foie gras is seared to silky perfec404-365-0410. tackle — softer-than-soft with cocotion, topped with thickened balsamstarprovisions. nut gelato and a hint of cayenne. ic and candied slivers of cara cara com/bacchanalia. Pricy though it is, Bacchanalia orange and served alongside a salted still feels like a worthy once-inHawaiian yogurt roll. Quatrano’s awhile splurge; the kind of startteam has also brought back a version to-finish fine dining experience that evokes of their farm coddled egg and the classic crab times gone by but still feels fresh. And I mean fritter with original Thai-style accouterments of fresh in the most literal sense. Though the avocado and citrus. word has all but lost its meaning, and farm-toSecond courses range from a plate of seasonal table seems today little more than an irritating Summerland farm veggies to a prime NY strip. tagline, we’re talking the kind of fresh where The warm Maine lobster is a standout — plump you can literally look out the window and see and poached, the entire crustacean de-shelled the plot of earth on which your dill was grown and gorgeously plated with morels (get ’em while and picked. That kind of fresh keeps us comyou can), Swiss chard and white asparagus with a ing back for more. C swirl of bitter green pesto. Bacchanalia’s classic cheese course is back, [email protected] too, now updated into a series of gorgeously presented dishes. Raclette comes torched into a Additional reporting by Angela Hansberger. clatl.com ❘ MAY 4 - MAY 10, 2017 ❘ 15

18 FOOD

lo o k B AC k

Alon’s celebrates 25 years

Chef and owner Alon Balshan of Alon’s Bakery and Market looks back on a quarter century of pastries

Joeff dAvis pHotos

SWEET TOOTH: Alon Balshan among his tasty treats at Alon’s Bakery and Market in Morningside; a variety of mini cakes in the pastry case

By GrACe HusetH

“I

came over to America thinking I would spend a couple of years, yet one thing led to another,” Alon Balshan says. It’s a bit of an understatement for the Israeli chef and owner of Alon’s, the eponymous market and bakery with two metro locations and a 25-year legacy. This month, the beloved business is celebrating its silver anniversary with a free block party at the original Morningside location. Balshan says he’s always loved food. Growing up in Israel, he conducted chemistry experiments and found his way to cooking. When he turned 18, he was drafted into the military, as is the required rite of passage in Israel. However, he never forgot his dream of opening a business. When he finished the army at 21, a fan of his dishes suggested he become a chef. “At that time, being a cook did not have a good reputation, and yet I went to culinary school,” Balshan recalls. “It was not a popular thing to do, but I remember feeling a rush running through me. I started cooking and baking, but my passion was for pastries.” After graduating from Israel’s prestigious Tadmor Culinary School, Balshan went on to work in hotels and bakeries in Europe, all the while dreaming of coming to the United States. “As a little kid, I would overhear the grown-ups talking and they would say, ‘Money is rolling in the streets over there.’ I took that literally and I thought America was the land of opportunity 18 ❘ MAY 4 - MAY 10, 2017 ❘ clatl.com

— and I still believe it is.” In 1986, Balshan bought a one-way ticket to New York City with nothing but a backpack and $500 to his name. A friend in Israel gave him the phone number of a friend who worked for the Engleman’s Bakery there. But when Balshan arrived, he discovered it had closed and moved to Atlanta. Not knowing anyone else in America, he had no choice but to dial the number. “I asked what kind of place Atlanta was and in my mind I thought it was going to be a little village and that I would get stuck in this little, tiny place,” he says. “I was told it was smaller than NYC but not smaller than Tel Aviv, and I figured I could deal with that.” He bought another one-way ticket and landed in Atlanta late that night, greeted by a stranger with his name on a sign. By 8 a.m. the next morning, he was in the kitchen at Engelman’s, baking Old World breads and pastries for wholesale. He stayed for two years before taking a pastry chef position at Murphy’s in Virginia-Highland. There, he learned about American desserts like carrot cake and scones, items he’d never even heard of back in Israel. “I remember the first time they told me to make scones,” he laughs. “I had to dig in and try to find recipes and figure out what scones were. It was a learning process. I could write a book about adapting to a place you are in.” While working at Murphy’s, Balshan began to plot his next move: opening his own bakery, a dream he’d held since he first began cook-

ing. The moment arrived when he noticed a space for rent on North Highland Avenue. He recalls the moment he decided to buy it; heart thumping, brain reeling with ideas of where he might find the money. Eventually, his father, a friend and a car loan gave him enough numbers to work through on his Lotus spreadsheet. He began cobbling together the necessary supplies, planning his menu and going to auctions to find used baking equipment on the cheap. When Alon’s officially opened in May 1992 as one of Atlanta’s first European bakeries, the public — and the press — came running. Then AJC dining critic Elliott Mackle wrote an article about the bakery that ended with: “So baby, go ahead and get in line.” Atlanta listened. The next Saturday morning, Balshan arrived to find new customers lined up from the door down the sidewalk, waiting for him to open. As time wore on, Balshan continued to grow his little bakery. In 2000, he expanded the original location; in 2004 he expanded again, adding a deli menu of soups, sandwiches, salads, breads, cheeses and wine. A few years later, a landlord in Dunwoody offered to invest in a second Alon’s. “It was a very big move because so far we had done everything measured and small,” Balshan says. But one big loan later, things were in business. By 2008, the Dunwoody location offered all the same items as the Morningside location, plus more: a beer and wine bar, a wood-burning oven for pizza and catering services. Since then, despite some recession-related

struggles, Alon’s has thrived in both locations. Many loyal customers — along with pastry chef Therese Giomet-Sauve, a former colleague of Balshan’s back at Murphy’s — have stayed with him for well over two decades. Nearly all the desserts Alon’s offers were dreamed up by Balshan himself — some brand new (hello strawberry cheesecake eclairs!); some old as the bakery itself (like croissants perfected during Balshan’s early days as a European pastry chef). There are cranberry scones, slices of chocolate Louise cake made from his grandmother Louise’s secret recipe and the famous Napoleon: toasty layers of puff pastry filled with vanilla cream that fills Balshan with memories of his childhood. “I grew up with quality, quality all over the place. It was the only way I knew,” he says. “The background you come from is important and puts its mark on who you are.” Of course, so does the place you end up. For Alon’s 25th anniversary celebration, Balshan will thank his loyal customers by making mini wedding cake cookies. They’re meant to symbolize his great love for his adopted home sweet home: Atlanta. C [email protected]

Alon’s is celebrating its 25th anniversary with a free block party featuring free food, a falafel bar and a DIY birthday cake cookie decorating station. 2-6 p.m., Sun., May 7. Alon’s Bakery and Market Morningside. 1394 N. Highland Ave. N.E. 404-872-6000. www.alons.com.

music

f e at u r e

DiCaprio, Nag and Death Stuff singled out Triple 7-inch release show brings punk audiences together

ashlee ruBan

SINGLES GOING STEADY: DiCaprio is one of three bands releasing a lathe cut 7-inch via Chunklet/Third Uncle on May 11.

By BoBBy Moore

T

o celebrate a local punk scene that’s bursting with innovative talent, Henry Owings of Chunklet Industries hatched a plan to simultaneously release lathe cut 7-inches by three groups: Death Stuff, DiCaprio and Nag. Each 7-inch is limited to just 40 copies pressed for an ongoing series helmed by Chunklet and Indianapolis’ Third Uncle Records. So far the series has yielded 7-inches by Atlanta acts All the Saints, Shepherds and Slugga. For this latest round of releases, each recorded by Graham Tavel, the series delves into dark, art-driven punk terrain. Death Stuff, DiCaprio and Nag each push the boundaries of three-chord punk into modern and more creative territory than the music’s tried-and-true forms. And despite their similarities, each group fosters its own following. This one-night pairing will plant all of their audiences in the same room at the same time. Owings initially planned to press a proper 7-inch with additional material only for the band whose lathe cut record sold out first. But after listening to all three records, he’s reconsidering. “All three records are too good to marginalize by saying they won’t come out again,” Owings says. Death Stuff guitarist Trevor Vick, singer and bassist Lloyd Wingard and drummer Jacob Armando are fresh off their first proper release, a

on the New Orleans-based Space Taker Sounds. self-titled cassette issued in February by Monofonus Press. New songs “Give Up” and “Nits” cap- “Blood,” “Dayglo” and “Moto Blues” up the agitated sound that defines Greene’s work with ture the organic evolution of the band’s distressPredator, GHB and Acid Freaks. The songs show ing sound. “We’re playing with structures more,” off remarkable sophistication, so much so that it’s Armando says. “That’s not anything new, but difficult to believe they were written and recorded we’re trying to continue to push that and keep on the fly. “Henry asked us about it, and we put with the angular riffs. You know, keep it jarring.” together three songs and scheduled to record,” Armando adds that both songs may be revisited Kozera says. “It was neat having that time line. It for a future EP. was like, ‘OK, we have a week to DiCaprio singer and guitarget these songs together.’” ist Kyle Swick, bassist John Rae Death Stuff, All seven songs recorded for and drummer Russell Rockwell DiCaprio and Nag the series will also be compiled are also in between a February Free (donations taken at and released as a cassette tape. debut release, I Went to the Mall the door). 9 p.m. There’s a bevy of promise on Yesterday and I Got Sick, and a Thurs., May 11. 529, display as each 7-inch captures a future record that will potentially 529 Flat Shoals Ave. S.E. snapshot of a band trekking into include their lathe cut tracks 404-228-6769. its own creative take on modern “Hair” and “Thrustin.” The latwww.529atlanta.com. punk. From its beginning, punk ter captures how monotonous the has developed through a relationdaily grind can feel during a fit ship between live shows and records. Think of of depression. Swick’s booking efforts with Irrelthe songs that are lauded as paragons of punk evant Music gives DiCaprio a younger, more poartistry. Each one persists side-by-side with the litically aware audience than the other two bands. admonishment that the real experience takes Nag rallies the garage rockers and punks place in the pit, or at least in the room, where the that’ve followed the group’s members’ previlines between audience and performer are broken ous bands. Singer and guitarist Brannon Greene, down. As these three singles work their magic, guitarist Tony Kozera, bassist Tyler Kinney and the thin lines between each band’s audience will drummer Ryan Fetter’s single is sandwiched disappear as well. C in between a recent 7-inch issued by Orlando’s Total Punk Records and a forthcoming single [email protected]

20 music

F E S T I va l r O U n d U P

23 atlanta Music festivals at a glance From Shaky Knees to A3C, 2017 has something for everyone

of life. There’s also a free block party taking over Centennial Olympic Park. $10-$189. Block party: Noon-5 p.m. Concert: 7-11 p.m. June 17. Philips Arena, 1 Philips Drive. www.hotspotatl.com. AthFest Music & Arts Festival rounds up local artists for a three-day weekend of arts, music and film. The festival also supports the nonprofit AthFest Educates and its mission to provide funding for music and arts education. Art vendors, a club crawl and kid zones are to be on-site as well as live music Drivin N Cryin, Futurebirds, Roadkill Ghost Choir, Cindy Wilson, New Madrid, of Montreal, Lingua Franca and more. All ages. Free. June 23-25. Downtown Athens, between Washington Street and Hull Street. www.athfest.com.

July

By Savannah EldEr

May Shaky Beats wowed attendees in 2016 with an exceptional lineup of electronic music. This year, more than 40 acts are spread across three stages. The Chainsmokers, Kaskade, Griz, Mantis and more are all on deck. 18+. $97-$179. May 5-7. Centennial Olympic Park, 265 Park Ave. W. N.W. www.shakybeatsfestival.com. Shaky Knees is embraced by Atlanta’s music and festival communities as a thriving alternative music and indie rock blowout. More than 60 artists, including LCD Soundsystem, the XX, Ryan Adams, the Shins, Pixies, Lo Moon, Saint Motel and Phoenix, are on the bill. All ages. $99-185. May 12-14. Centennial Olympic Park, 265 Park Ave. W. N.W. www.shakykneesfestival.com. The Kirkwood Spring Fling is back with a full day of art, music, a tour of homes and more. Slow Parade, Ruby Velle & Scott Clayton (acoustic duo), Yani Mo, Little Tybee, Fantasy Guys and more are lined up to perform throughout the day. Free. 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Sat., May 20. Bessie Branham Park, 2051 Delano Drive N.E. www.kirkwoodfling.com.

TaylOr WallacE/cl FIlE

CROWD SURFIN’: Scenes from the mosh pit during Shaky Knees 2014.

swooning crowds. Macy Gray, Charles Lloyd Sky Trio, Cleveland P. Jones, Marquis Hill Blacktet, Rialto Jazz for Kids, Brenda Nicole Moorer, Danii Roundtree and more perform. All ages. Free. May 26-28. Piedmont Park, 400 Park Drive N.E. www.atlantafestivals.com.

June Candler Park Music and Food Festival has evolved into something of a legendary function. Joe Russo’s Almost Dead, Railroad Earth, Lake Street Dive, Chelsea Shag, the Marcus King Band, Matisyahu and more grace the stage. 21+. $25-$80 (VIP). June 2-3. Candler Park, 1550 McClendon Ave. N.E. www.candlerparkmusicfestival.com. Virginia-Highland Summerfest celebrates arts, music and the great outdoors with special events including an artist market, 5K road race, a tot trot, KidsFest and live music by Dylan LeBlanc, Banditos, Stokeswood, Alex Guthrie, Israel Nash and the New Respects. All ages. Free. June 3-4. Virginia-Highland, 822 N. Highland Ave. N.E. www.vahi.org/summerfest.

Lucky for us, Funk Fest is one of those glorious weekend-long picnics. Lawn chairs and coolers are welcome as long as they comply with venue rules. Soul, R&B, hip-hop and blues acts including Brandy, Erykah Badu, Mystikal, Digable Planets, Joe and more perform this year. All ages. $55-$200. May 1921. Wolf Creek Amphitheater, 3025 Merk Road S.W. atlanta.funkfesttour.com.

The seventh annual Tunes from the Tombs hosts local bands and food trucks while immersed in the scenery of Oakland Cemetery. This year, the lineup features performances by Secondhand Swagger, Cadillac Jones, Jugtime Ragband, Atlanta Rock ’n’ Roll All-Stars, Spencer Garn & the Diamond Street Players, Blake Rainey and his Demons and Dang Dang Dang. The Bonaventure Quartet, Wasted Potential Brass Band, Little Country Giants, Octave and the Atlanta Taiko Project also perform. $5-$20. June 10. Noon. Oakland Cemetery, 248 Oakland Ave. S.E. www.oaklandcemetery.com.

The Atlanta Jazz Festival attracts thousands of residents and out-of-state visitors to an annual weekendlong event. Hundreds of local, regional and national artists perform underneath the Midtown skyline for

Hot 107.9’s Birthday Bash returns for this year’s “PopUp Edition.” Gucci Mane, Migos, Fat Joe & Remy Ma, YFN Lucci, B.O.B, DJ Luke Nasty, D.R.A.M. and Lil Uzi Vert fill out a lineup for hip-hop heads from all walks

20 ❘ MAY 4 - MAY 10, 2017 ❘ clatl.com

Moonshine Music and Arts Fest hosts local, regional and global acts such as Beats Antique, Space Jesus, Paper Diamond, Wick-It the Instigator and more in scenic Braselton. Highlights include camping and four themed stages. 18+ $20-$179. June 30-July 2. Lanier Raceplex, 5301 Winder Highway. Braselton. www.moonshinemusicfest.com. Irrelevant Music Fest returns for a three-day stand at 529 and the Earl, July 20-22. The lineup features an impressive roster of young acts including Mothers, Palm, Material Girls, Man Up, Yancey, Omni, Pyramid Club, Lois Righteous and more. $10-$55. See website for time and schedule information. 529, 529 Flat Shoals Ave. S.E. 404-228-6769. www.529atlanta.com. The Earl, 488 Flat Shoals Ave. S.E. 404-522-3950. www.badearl.com.

august 808 Fest returns once again for a gathering of bass music heads, shaking the foundations of Atlanta music. There’s talk that founder Rickey Raw is going big this year. Keep an eye out for time, price, lineup, venue and more details coming soon. Aug. 8. www.808fest.com. The annual Summer Shade Festival supports the nonprofit Grant Park Conservancy to create an activity-filled weekend in the efforts of preserving and improving Atlanta’s oldest park. Grant Park serves as a huge space for Atlantans to exercise, relax and is home to the Zoo Atlanta. Adron, the Electric Sons, Indianapolis Jones and more are scheduled to perform. All ages. Aug. 26-27. Grant Park, 840 Cherokee Ave. www.summershadefestival.org. The Atlanta Weekender returns for its sixth year, this time taking over the Edgewood Avenue club district. The festival celebrates all things soul, afrobeat and house music. Details coming soon. Aug. 31-Sept. 4. www.atlantaweekender.com.

septeMber ONE Musicfest made waves with 2016’s Dungeon Family and Organized Noize reunion. Now in its seventh year, ONE Musicfest gathers another diverse group of artists from all corners of hip-hop, reggae, funk, alternative rock and soul. Stay tuned for more

info. Sept. 8-9. www.onemusicfest.com. Music Midtown hasn’t announced its 2017 lineup just yet, but the relaunched festival’s productions have grown each year. Music Midtown is one of the city’s largest and longest running music festivals. Be on the lookout for more information coming soon. Sept. 16-17. Piedmont Park, 400 Park Drive N.E. www.musicmidtown.com. Imagine Music Festival dominates Atlanta’s EDM scene, boasting “glamping” experiences and numerous stage-sets designed with ravers in mind. For 2017, a 3-D underwater world by AQUA will focus on hydrating fans with free water stations, all while providing an aquamarine wonderland across six stages. Headliners include Deadmau5, Tiësto, Pretty Lights Live and Gorgon City among 40 other artists. Expect carnival rides and games, various acrobatic performers roaming about, art booths and some of the world’s most popular DJs taking guests to higher places. $163-$419. Sept. 22-24. Atlanta Motor Speedway, 1500 Tara Place, Hampton. www.imaginefestival.com.

OctOber Project Pabst kicked off in Portland in 2104, but came down South for the love of PBR and live music last year. The festival returns to East Atlanta Village on Oct. 7. Dozens of acts will grace the stage for an all-day rendezvous in the streets. The lineup will be announced June 7. In the meantime, keep an eye out for a limited edition PBR can sporting artwork by Atlanta artist Nick Benson. Oct. 7. East Atlanta Village. www.projectpabst. com. The 13th annual A3C Festival & Conference will host more than 1,000 musicians and 300 speakers. The A3C Pass includes access into both the music festival and conference and provides exclusive entry into multiple events throughout the city. Lineup TBA. $56-$485. Oct. 4-8. Georgia Railroad Freight Depot, 65 Martin Luther King Drive S.W. www.a3cfestival.com. Oakhurst Porchfest is a 100 percent community-driven affair. Got a porch nearby? How about a band? Want to sell food or art? Come on through, neighbor. Last year, 185 performances took place over six hours. Noon-6 p.m. Oct. 14. Oakhurst Community, Atlanta/Decatur. www.oakhurstporchfest.org. At Wire & Wood Alpharetta Songwriters Festival, nationally recognized singer/songwriters have been invited to showcase their original creations through live performances. Get a behind-the-scenes look at the stories that inspired country, rock, blues, Americana and bluegrass songs. John Oates (Hall & Oates), Kristian Bush (Sugarland), Emily Saliers (Indigo Girls), Shawn Mullins and Daphne Willis, among others, are performing. All ages. Free-$40. Oct. 7-8. Alpharetta City Hall, 2 Park Plaza, Alpharetta. www.wireandwoodalpharetta. com. Afropunk returns for another round of multicultural unification through music and art. Location and lineup info TBA. Oct. 14-15. www.afropunkfest.com/atlanta. C [email protected]

TUESDAY MAY 2 - SATURDAY MAY 6

LAUGHING SKULL COMEDY FESTIVAL IN THE ATLANTA ROOM

THURSDAY MAY 4

STAR WARS DAY PARTY FT.:

THE NIGHT SHIFT. MILES HIGH DAVIS SUPERJAM EGO ASIDE FRIDAY MAY 5

DEAD AFFECT KINDREAD

THURSDAY MAY 11

FROM HENDRIX TO HIP HOP FT. ELLIOT HOLDEN

FRIDAY MAY 12

CHASE MITCHELL

SATURDAY MAY 13

KWEEN & NU EXPERIANCE AYINDE & THE LIGHT

THURSDAY MAY 18

DAVID MAYFIELD PARADE THE RAILSPLITTERS FRIDAY MAY 19

AVENUE OF THE GIANTS A SLOW BOAT TO CHINA SATURDAY MAY 20

RATAID 2017

DAN BAIRD & HOMEMADE SIN RAY DAFRICO/68-75/BRYCE CLIFFORD

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23

Thursday, 5/4, alTernaTive hip-hop

Music

Princess nokia

— Hilary Cadigan

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Destiny Frasqueri, aka Princess Nokia, spits truth with no apologies. The 24year-old Afro-Nuyorican rapper grew up in the NYC projects, drawing power from her mixed Yoruba and Taíno heritage, studying Kemetic philosophy and practicing Santeria. Today she’s co-founder of urban feminist outreach collective Smart Girl Club. She’s also one of the hottest young hip-hop acts around, rapping in a single defiant breath about her rough upbringing, her shape-shifting bruja powers, her “lil titties” and her “phat belly” over relentless beats and throwback hooks. With last year’s mixtape, 1992, still garnering converts, the willfully unsigned artist brings her fire to Atlanta courtesy of La Choloteca and WERC Crew. With Lord Narf, Xavier BLK, Anonima and more. $15-$20. 10 p.m. Thurs., May 4. MJQ Concourse, 736 Ponce de Leon Ave. N.E. www. thedrunkenunicorn.net.

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404-767-1569 clatl.com ❘ MAY 4 - MAY 10, 2017 ❘ 23

See + Do

5.11

Where Are We? opening reception Atlanta Photography Group

5.12

Small Secret Things Elliott Street Deli & Pub

joSh Goleman

The Bad Plus DaviD RamS

sunday, 5/7, Jazz Whether performing original compositions or offering inventive new takes on a wide variety of pop songs, jazz trio the Bad Plus continually finds a way to make the group’s music engaging — challenging in a modern context, yet incredibly inclusive. On the group’s latest recording, It’s Hard (Okeh Records), pianist Ethan Iverson, bassist Reid Anderson and drummer Dave King cover everything from Prince and Johnny Cash to Kraftwerk and Barry Manilow, yet always manage to swing. Unfortunately, this may be the last time to catch the supremely talented Iverson with the group, as he is departing for a solo career at the end of the year. $30-$40. 8 p.m. Sun., May 7. City Winery, 650 North Ave. N.E., 404-946-3791. www.citywinery.com/atlanta. — omar KHalid

Thursday, 5/4

Migos Friday, 5/5, hip-hop There’s probably no rap group experiencing the swing of momentum currently felt by Quavo, Offset and Takeoff. Though Migos has been putting in work independently for years, the fruits of their labor bore mainstream success in the form of the their latest album, Culture, going platinum. Sure, the monster reception of “Bad and Boujee” and “T-Shirt” didn’t hurt, but those songs were made with a formula Migos’ die-hards knew existed long before rich white kids started dabbing at Hawks’ games. Nobody Safe Tour with Future, Young Thug, Kodak Black, Zoey Dollaz. $36-$500+. Aaron’s Amphitheatre at Lakewood, 2002 Lakewood Way S.W. 404-443-5090. www.thelakewoodamphitheater.com. — gavin godfrey spanning multiple neighborhoods and venues like the Laughing Skull Lounge (duh), Relapse Theatre, Red Brick Brewery, Eddie’s Attic, Village Theatre and Smith’s Olde Bar with the vaunted finals and semi-finals occupying the Buckhead Theatre on May 6. With a whopping 17 homegrown comics securing a spot this year, the odds are looking good that this could be the fifth year in a row a local takes home some glory with a top four finish. $10-$28. Through May 8. Various Locations. laughingskullcomedyfestival.com. — olivia CatHCart

saTurday, 5/6

Comedy: laughing skull americana: Comedy Festival rhiannon For the eighth year running, 72 comedians from all over the country (and beyond) converge Giddens on Atlanta bidding for laughs and first place in the 2017 Laughing Skull Comedy Festival. The ever-growing festival has expanded to a jam-packed eight days this year with showcases

On her 2015 solo debut, Tomorrow is My Turn, Carolina Chocolate Drops frontwoman Rhiannon Giddens sang songs mostly written by others. On this year’s follow-up, Freedom High-

way, Giddens flips the script, focusing on original songs about race, justice, dissent and trying times in America. The album is immaculately crafted, with a somber banjo here and a vibrant horn section there. But the centerpiece, as always, is Giddens’ once-in-a-generation voice, which elevates any piece of music it touches. With Amythyst Kiah. $26-$29. 8 p.m. Sat., May 6. Variety Playhouse, 1099 Euclid Ave. N.E. 404-524-7354. www.variety-playhouse.com. — Ben Salmon

Festival: Food that rocks

The second annual Food That Rocks, a food and music festival celebrating Sandy Springs, will be held under two large tents in Hammond Park. With 25 of the area’s best restaurants on deck, festival-goers can sample local bites and beverages and listen to classic and contemporary tunes while supporting great causes. Expect tastes from Hammock’s, Pig-n-Chik, Tiff’s Treats, Southern Bistro, Marlow’s Tavern, il Giallo, Buttermilk Sky Pie and many more. Eighties rock band the

ub

5.13

An Evening of Feast and Fantastic Song Paris on Ponce

5.14

The FormulATL Aisle 5

5.16

NT Live: Hedda Gabler Landmark Midtown Art Cinema

Thu. May 4, 2017 | 8:00pm The Bowery presents:

ANDY SHAUF

couRteSy BuRnaway

Julia Jacklin ----------------------------------------------

Friday, 5/5, visual arT Explore the studios of Atlanta artists for BURNAWAY’s Spring Studio Soiree at Westview Studios on May 5. Peek into the unique creative spaces where artists like Cosmo Whyte, Krista Clark, Yanique Norman, Tracey Murrell, John Crooms, Carolyn Grady, John Taylor and Lisa Zunzanyika, among others, create their work. Mix and mingle with fellow art lovers and artists alike with an exclusive tour of studio life. Parking is free and tickets include snacks and one drink. $25. 7-10 p.m. Fri., May 5. Westview Studios, 1450 Ralph David Abernathy Blvd. S.W. 404-391-7909. — Hilleary gramling Biffs and DJ Brettski will provide the soundtrack and proceeds will support Sandy Springs-based charities Second Helpings, Ian’s Friends Foundation and the Georgia Ovarian Cancer Alliance. 21+. $55-$70. 6:30-11 p.m. Sat, May 6. Hammond Park, 705 Hammond Drive, Sandy Springs. www.foodthatrocks.org. — Hilleary gramling

electronic: little dragon

If there’s a visual representation of Little Dragon’s current musical ethos it’s the video for its single “Sweet.” The Ossian Melin-directed clip is a smattering of seemingly random cuts — convulsing dancers, gold-flake-covered faces, alien space crafts — and cues that suggest chaos. At the center of the sonic storm is Yukimi Nagano, resting on a throne, wearing an ensemble fit for an evil queen in Wonderland. The song, and its predecessor, “High,” are the first two offerings from the group’s fifth studio effort, Season High. In typical Little Dragon fashion, the new project tiptoes the lines of R&B, electronic pop, rock and

LOW CUT CONNIE

Daniel PaRviS

Spring Studio Soirée

Fri. May 5, 2017 | 9:00pm Triple Ds presents:

Split in Three Thursday, 5/4, TheaTer Aurora Theatre presents a Southern dramedy, Split in Three, that follows two poor white sisters, Nola and Nell Parson, living in the last Mississippi school district to integrate after Brown v. Board of Education. The Parson sisters are shocked when their biracial half-sister comes down from the North and appears at their doorstep (above). Despite the racially charged atmosphere of the Civil Rights Movement, and though the South had drawn clear lines, these three girls find a personal bond through sisterhood. Writer and Atlanta native Daryl Lisa Fazio is dedicated to constructing complex characters for women of all ages, races and classes. $20-$55. Through May 28. Tues.-Thurs., 8 p.m.; Sat.-Sun., 2:30 p.m. Aurora Theatre, 128 E. Pike St., Lawrenceville. 678226-6222. www.auroratheatre.com. — nyaSHa draKeS

hip-hop but, at 10 songs, it might be the group’s tidiest effort to date. With Abjo. $29. 11 p.m. Sat., May 6. Masquerade, 75 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive S.W. 404-577-8178. www.masq.com. — gavin godfrey

Jazz: edgewood Big Band

Got jazz? For the second year in a row, Jeff Crompton has assembled a dozen superlative musicians to perform an adventurous program of original compositions by the bandleader at the First Existentialist Congregation — the old See See & Do p.26

Scantron | Pony League ---------------------------------------------Sat. May 6, 2017 | 8:30pm The Bowery presents:

NE-HI

Background | Drew Beskin ---------------------------------------------Mon. May 8, 2017 | 8:30pm Tight Bros. Network presents:

MONO

Holy Sons ---------------------------------------------Tue. May 9, 2017 | 9:00pm Triple Ds presents:

UV-TV | BROTHERS

Uniform | Muddle ---------------------------------------------Wed. May 10, 2017 | 8:00pm Triple Ds presents:

SHONEN KNIFE

Starbenders | Floral Print ---------------------------------------------Thu. May 11, 2017 | 8:30pm A. Rippin Production presents:

THE OBSESSED

Karma To Burn | Lo-Pan ----------------------------------------------

5.12 Anderson East | 5.13 Temples 5.18 Laser Background | 5.19 Saint Pé | 5.21 Deicide 5.23 BASH & POP

26

See + Do

free will astrology

TAURUS 5 things to do

Friday, 7 p.m. Sips Under the Sea: Cinco de Mayo at Georgia Aquarium saturday, noon Wild Beer Fest at Wrecking Bar Brewpub sunday, 1 p.m. Pints and Puppies at Ladybird Grove & Mess Hall BoBBy thoRton

Call and Response Thursday, 5/4, visual arT Whether a history buff, jazz lover or art novice, all are invited to experience the rich visual history of the Atlanta Jazz Festival, one of the largest free jazz festivals in the country. Gallery 72 hosts the opening reception of Call and Response, 40 Years of Atlanta Jazz Festival Art, an exhibition featuring selected artworks used in the creation of promotional posters for the festival. Including works by Wadsworth Jarrell, Sam Middleton, Michael Bryan, Charly Palmer, Zachariah A. Anderson, Maurice Evans (whose untitled work above was included in the 1994 Atlanta Jazz Festival) and more, this exhibition illuminates the intersection of music and art. This year’s Atlanta Jazz Festival takes place May 26-28. Opening reception: Free. 6-9 p.m. Thurs, May 4. On view through June 1. Gallery 72, 72 Marietta St. N.W. 404-496-3220. www.ocaatlanta.com. — Hilleary gramling

Monday, 10 p.m. Mario Kart Monday at Atkins Park - Virginia Highland

See & Do from p.25

stone church across from Candler Park. This time around, in addition to showcasing straight-ahead jazz and free improv pieces, the Edgewood setlist features a tango, a composition inspired by Japanese gagaku music and a waltz with a country twang. The ensemble includes Crompton, Ben Davis and Bill Nittler (saxophones, clarinets), Gordon Vernick and Roger Ruzow (trumpets), Hollie Lawing Pritchard (trombone), Bill Pritchard (tuba, euphonium), Rob Rushin (guitar), Benjamin Shirley (cello), Ben Gettys (bass), Yaya Brown (percussion) and Blake Helton (drums). $10. 8 p.m. Sat., May 6. First Existentialist Congregation, 470 Candler Park Drive N.E. — doug deloaCH

sunday, 5/7

eat: picnic in the park

Put on some sunblock and grab a blanket for a Sunday afternoon picnic at Historic Fourth Ward Park. Some of Atlanta’s favorite chefs, including Terry Koval from Wrecking Bar Brewpub, Todd Ginsberg from the General Muir and Todd Mussman from Muss & Turner’s, will whip up tasty lunches for guests to feast on. Friends and families can enjoy beer and wine along with live music, dancing and games. Take a significant other and pick up a picnic basket for two, or gather a group of friends and munch on the tasty filling of a four-person basket. Proceeds from tickets will go to Wholesome Wave Georgia, a nonprofit that strives to strengthen local food communities by increasing the affordability and networks of locally grown food. $35-$70. 1-4 p.m. Sun., May 7. Historic Fourth Ward Park, 700 Ralph McGill Blvd. 404-546-6757. www.h4wpc.com. — eSSenCe BiJan

26 ❘ MAY 4 - MAY 10, 2017 ❘ clatl.com

By roB Brezsny GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Would you consider enrolling in my Self-Pity Seminar? If so, you would learn that obsessing on self-pity is a means to an end, not a morass to get lost in. You would feel sorry for yourself for brief, intense periods so that you could feel proud and brave the rest of the time. For a given period — let’s say three days — you would indulge and indulge and indulge in self-pity until you entirely exhausted that emotion. Then you’d be free to engage in an orgy of self-healing, self-nurturing, and self-celebration. Ready to get started? Ruminate about the ways that people don’t fully appreciate you. CANCER (June 21-July 22): In a typical conversation, most of us utter too many “uhs,” “likes,” “I means,” and “you knows.” I mean, I’m sure that ... uh ... you’ll agree that, like, what’s the purpose of, you know, all that pointless noise? But I have some good news to deliver about your personal use of language in the coming weeks, Cancerian. According to my reading of the astrological omens, you’ll have the potential to dramatically lower your reliance on needless filler. But wait, there’s more: Clear thinking and precise speech just might be your superpowers. As a result, your powers of persuasion should intensify. Your ability to advocate for your favorite causes may zoom. LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): In 1668, England named John Dryden its first Poet Laureate. His literary influence was so monumental that the era in which he published was known as the Age of Dryden. Twentieth-century poetry great T. S. Eliot said he was “the ancestor of nearly all that is best in the poetry of the eighteenth century.” Curiously, Dryden had a low opinion of Shakespeare. “Scarcely intelligible,” he called the Bard, adding, “His whole style is so pestered with figurative expressions that it is as affected as it is coarse.” I foresee a comparable clash of titans in your sphere, Leo. Two major influences may fight it out for supremacy. One embodiment of beauty may be in competition with another. One powerful and persuasive force could oppose another. What will your role be? Mediator? Judge? Neutral observer? Whatever it is, be cagey. VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Just this once, and for a limited time only, you have cosmic clearance to load up on sugary treats, leave an empty beer can in the woods, watch stupid TV shows, and act uncool in front of the Beautiful People. Why? Because being totally well-behaved and perfectly composed and strictly pure would compromise your mental health more than being naughty. Besides, if you want to figure out what you are on the road to becoming, you will need to know more about what you’re not. LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): In addition to fashion tips, advice for the broken-hearted, midlife-crisis support, and career counseling, I sometimes provide you with more mystical help. Like now. So if you need nuts-and-bolts guidance, I hope you’ll have the sense to read a more down-to-earth horoscope. What I want to tell you is that the metaphor of resurrection is your featured theme. You should assume that it’s somehow the answer to every question. Rejoice in the knowledge that although a part of you has died, it will be reborn in a fresh guise. SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): “Are you ready for the genie’s favors? Don’t rub the magic lamp unless you are.” That’s the message I saw on an Instagram meme. I immediately thought of you. The truth is that up until recently, you have

illustration lauren Barfield

Thursday, 7 p.m. Artist Talk: Jenny Han at Little Shop of Stories

The Bull April 20-May 20 When poet Wislawa Szymborska delivered her speech for winning the Nobel Prize, she said that “whatever else we might think of this world — it is astonishing.” She added that for a poet, there really is no such thing as the “ordinary world,” “ordinary life,” and “the ordinary course of events.” In fact, “Nothing is usual or normal. Not a single stone and not a single cloud above it. Not a single day and not a single night after it. And above all, not a single existence, not anyone’s existence in this world.” I offer you her thoughts, Taurus, because I believe that in the next two weeks you will have an extraordinary potential to feel and act on these truths. You are hereby granted a license to be astonished on a regular basis.

not been fully prepared for the useful but demanding gifts the genie could offer you. You haven’t had the self-mastery necessary to use the gifts as they’re meant to be used, and therefore they were a bit dangerous to you. But that situation has changed. Although you may still not be fully primed, you’re as ready as you can be. That’s why I say: RUB THE MAGIC LAMP!

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): You may have heard the exhortation “Follow your bliss!”, which was popularized by mythologist Joseph Campbell. After studying the archetypal stories of many cultures throughout history, he concluded that it was the most important principle driving the success of most heroes. Here’s another way to say it: Identify the job or activity that deeply excites you, and find a way to make it the center of your life. In his later years, Campbell worried that too many people had misinterpreted “Follow your bliss” to mean “Do what comes easily.” That’s all wrong, he said. Anything worth doing takes work and struggle. “Maybe I should have said, ‘Follow your blisters,’” he laughed. I bring this up, Sagittarius, because you are now in an intense “Follow your blisters” phase of following your bliss. CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): The versatile artist Melvin Van Peebles has enjoyed working as a filmmaker, screenwriter, actor, composer, and novelist. One of his more recent efforts was a collaboration with the experimental band The Heliocentrics. Together they created a sciencefiction-themed spoken-word poetry album titled The Last Transmission. Peebles told NPR, “I haven’t had so much fun with clothes on in years.” If I’m reading the planetary omens correctly Capricorn, you’re either experiencing that level of fun, or will soon be doing so. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): In what ways do you most resemble your mother? Now is a good time to take inventory. Once you identify any mom-like qualities that tend to limit your freedom or lead you away from your dreams, devise a plan to transform them. You may never be able to defuse them entirely, but there’s a lot you can do to minimize the mischief they cause. Be calm but calculating in setting your intention, Aquarius! P.S.: In the course of your inventory, you may also find there are ways you are like your mother that are of great value to you. Is there anything you could do to more fully develop their potential? PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): “We are what we imagine,” writes Piscean author N. Scott Momaday. “Our very existence consists in our imagination of ourselves. Our best destiny is to imagine who and what we are. The greatest tragedy that can befall us is to go unimagined.” Let’s make this passage your inspirational keynote for the coming weeks. It’s a perfect time to realize how much power you have to create yourself through the intelligent and purposeful use of your vivid imagination. (P.S. Here’s a further tip, this time from Cher: “All of us invent ourselves. Some of us just have more imagination than others.”) ARIES (March 21-April 19): Beware of feeling sorry for sharks that yell for help. Beware of trusting coyotes that act like sheep and sheep that act like coyotes. Beware of nibbling food from jars whose contents are different from what their labels suggest. But wait! “Beware” is not my only message for you. I have these additional announcements: Welcome interlopers if they’re humble and look you in the eyes. Learn all you can from predators and pretenders without imitating them. Take advantage of any change that’s set in motion by agitators who shake up the status quo, even if you don’t like them.

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2017 (but not 2018) 31 Uprising of a sort 32 Desert rest stop 34 Genre for many “Weird Al” Yankovic medleys 35 “That coffee holder won’t work if it’s ginormous” 39 Nastily derogatory 40 FX series with Billy Bob Thornton 41 Tacks on 42 “Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret” author 44 Prefix with byte or hertz 48 Nabokov ending? 49 Fencing weapon 50 Take, as a coupon 51 Cy Young Award stat 52 Vegas headliner? 53 Day-___ (fluorescent paint) 55 “Kneel before ___!” (“Superman II” line) 56 “I was impervious to constant

chatter” 60 “Alice’s Restaurant” singer Guthrie 61 Kerfuffles 62 “Sounds like a plan!” 63 Henchman created by J.M. Barrie 64 Loses it 65 Borscht ingredient Down 1 Certain discriminators (var.) 2 What the befuddled have 3 Kiddie-lit character with a pinned-on tail 4 Amusingly twisted 5 Swing around a pivot 6 On guard 7 The “A” in many beer acronyms 8 Former pro wrestler ___ Bigelow 9 “Donnie Darko” actor Patrick 10 Put ___ show 11 Stayed put 12 “Twistin’ the Night Away” singer 13 The tiniest

amount 18 Green-lights 19 Owed right now 25 Palm features 26 Dollar amount in a Western? 29 Next-to-last Greek letter 30 Semi, to a trucker 31 Surname in a Styx song 33 “Fish” star Vigoda 34 Little dog 35 Deodorant’s place 36 Like mechanical bulls and rocking horses 37 Drive headlong into 38 Cuprite, e.g. 39 Cut down on driving, say 42 Speaks too proudly

43 Champ before Ali 45 Source of a breakdown? 46 Rent co-payer, casually 47 Burning with desire 49 Reason for a yearly shot 50 Companion to five “W”s 53 Unappetizing food 54 Word often confused with “fewer” 57 Strummer or Cocker 58 Agcy. overseeing cosmetics 59 Lobster wearer’s clothing ©2017 Jonesin’ Crosswords ([email protected])

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