The Rake Magazine

MUSIC
Good Old Boys

I don't know why most cover bands try so hard to make each song sound like the original recording. In my book, the whole point of covering a song is to make it yours, to add your own touches and stylings in an effort to pay homage to the song. This is precisely what The New Standards do with the songs they cover. I'd even venture to say that many of them sound better than their original counterparts (but don't let anyone know I said that). With raw, simple instrumentation and a lot of attention to the vocals, The New Standards offer up a wide array of 20th century mellow jazz in a beautifully adept manner. These boys have been around the block a bit, and anyone with an inkling of knowledge of the local music scene here should know them well -- John Munson (of Trip Shakespeare and Semisonic fame), Chan Poling (founder of the haute-punk new-wave group The Suburbs), and Steve Roehm, vibraphonist extraordinaire. Roehm actually plays with such ease, and such skill, he's almost worth the show alone.

Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m., Dakota Jazz Club & Restaurant, 1010 Nicollet, Downtown Minneapolis, 612-332-1010, $15.

Listen to The New Standards.

And the Dakota's not stopping there. On Sunday, you can go see John Scofield, one of the "big three" of current jazz guitarists. Scofield doles out jazz improv, somewhere between post-bop, fusion, and soul jazz.

Sunday at 7 p.m. and 10 p.m., Dakota Jazz Club & Restaurant, 1010 Nicollet, Downtown Minneapolis, 612-332-1010, $35 & $25.

Watch and listen to John Scofield.

Touch Two Torches Together

Why settle for one? This fire is going to burn bright tonight. For the first time ever, Debbie Duncan and Carole Martin will share the stage. Two local icons come together for what promises to be a soulful, romantic, or even gut-wrenching evening -- whatever you're looking for. Gaze into your lover's eyes as Martin lulls you with her torch songs. Weep from your inner-most recesses as Duncan pelts you with her Gospel-trained vocals. The two know how to put on a pretty good show, alone. I can only assume the best.

Friday and Saturday at 9 p.m., The Artists' Quarter, 408 St Peter Street, St.Paul, 651-292-1359, $10.

Download Debbie Duncan songs.
Download Carole Martin songs.

Yes, More Jazz Still

"Heeeeere's Johnny!" I can't fail to mention Doc Severinsen's final concerts with the Minnesota Orchestra this weekend. Prior to serving as the Minnesota Orchestra's Principal Pops conductor for the last 14 seasons, this man was solely responsible for that signature trumpet blast following Johnny Carson's introduction on the Tonight Show for decades -- and he happens to be a pretty darn good trumpet player and composer despite that. In his last hurrah, Severinsen will be presenting hits from the golden age of big bands and American popular song -- hits by George and Ira Gershwin, Irving Berlin, Rodgers and Hammerstein -- everything from jazz to film scores to Broadway musicals. Vocalists Lynn Roberts and Joe Wolverton will accompany him, along with percussionist Ed Shaughnessy, (Severinsen's long-time drummer on the Tonight Show) and the Minnesota Chorale. After the show, there's a champagne toast to Doc Severinsen in the lobby.

Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m., Sunday at 2 p.m., Orchestra Hall, Minneapolis, 612-371-5656, $20.25-$49.25.

Listen to Doc Severinsen.

Fiddles, Banjos, Mandolins, More

Forget St. Patty's Day. You really want to celebrate those Irish-Scott roots (or those African ones)? Head on over to the Uptown Bluegrass Festival at the Suburban World Theater. Get a little O, Brother, Where Art Thou? soundtrack of your own -- or something like it -- with the Roe Family Singers, Pert Near Sandstone, High 48s, Hobo Nephews of Uncle Frank, Floor Birds, Free Range Pickin', and the Sans Souci Quartet. Yes, you can see some of these bands in town on a fairly regular basis (The Roe Family Singers play every Monday at the 331 Club), but this is a great weekend to get a full sampling of the local bluegrass scene. Plus, you can get there early for an open jam (Friday 4-7 p.m., Saturday 2-7 p.m.). Bring your instruments.

Saturday at 8 p.m., Suburban World Theatre, 3022 Hennepin Avenue
Minneapolis, 612-822-9000, $12.50, both days for $17.50.

Listen to Roe Family Singers.
Listen to Pert Near Sandstone.

One in Spirit

The Twin Cities Gay Men's Chorus will be performing this weekend at the Ted Mann Concert Hall, following the Faces of Faith conference. All faiths are welcome.

Friday and Saturday at 8:00 p.m., Ted Mann Concert Hall, 2128 4th Street S., Minneapolis, 612-624-2345, $19-$39.

OPERA
Last Chance for Seduction

This is the last weekend to see Don Juan Giovanni, Jeune Lune's postmodern mix of Mozart's 1787 opera, Don Giovanni, and French playwright Moliere's 1665 Don Juan -- two works about the infamous European seducer. Actors and singers join together in a contemporary cross-country road trip that leads them to deeper questions of nature and morality -- all on a relatively stark stage, with the Minneapolis skyline looming behind.

Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m., Sunday at 7 p.m., Theatre de la Jeune Lune, 105 North First Street, Minneapolis, 612-333-6200, $31.50 (group discounts available), students and seniors $26.50.

Listen to a song from Don Juan Giovanni.

OPERA
Imperial India Hits Minnesota

Saturday is the premiere of The Minnesota Opera's performance of Lakme, by Leo Delibes. Sung in French with English translations projected above the stage, Lakme tells the tale of ill-fated love and cultures colliding. Wait. Haven't I seen this before? She dies, right? Oh, no. That was Romeo and Juliet -- and it had nothing to do with the British Raj in India. This opera tells the story of Lakme, the daughter of a Brahmin priest, who falls hopelessly in love with the British officer Gerald during a time when the British were forcing many Hindus to practice their religion in secret -- clearly not an environment well-suited to their union. Are you up for some tears, honor, and indignation? Go see it.

Saturday at 7:30 p.m., Sunday at 2 p.m., Ordway Center for the Performing Arts, 345 Washington S., Saint Paul, Box office: 651-224-4222, Main: 651-282-3000, $70.50-$134.50.

SHOPPING (FOR WEAPONRY)
Bang Bang

All this mellow music and love-story opera just not doing it for you? Get behind the barrel of a gun and let some steam off. (Did I really just say that?) Bill's Gun Shop & Range is having its Spring Shooters Show this weekend. That's right. You can come look at the guns on display, meet some of the factory reps, and even try their guns for free. All you have to do is buy the ammo, and the range use is free as well. Not enough incentive for you? How about shooting off a machine gun? Dang!

Friday and Saturday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Bill's Gun Shop & Range, 4080 W. Broadway Ave., Robbinsdale 763-533-9594, Free.

SOCIAL NETWORKING
Twitter away Your Time Looking for a Fella

Thanks to a friendly tip (which you're all invited to send to cristina@rakemag.com) and a later Metroblogging Minneapolis post, we have an opportunity to make a new friend this weekend -- maybe more. Here's the deal. Have you heard of Twitter? It's pretty basic -- just an online community that allows you to send remote messages saying what you're up to. OK. Well, a guy here in town, Least Dangerous Game, is using it to host a city-wide hide-and-seek game. This Saturday from noon to 4 p.m., he'll be "hiding" somewhere in the Twin Cities. Using Twitter, he'll offer clues as to where he can be found. The first person to find him will receive a prize. His friendship, perhaps? No, apparently, this week it's going to be a $15 Target gift card -- but you can probably work the whole friendship thing into the deal if you're not too socially inept. Originally, he wasn't even going to begin the game until at least 50 Twin Cities Twitterers became his friend through Twitter (like on myspace.com); but it looks like he's going for a trial run nonetheless. If all goes well, and enough people are interested, he'll keep doing it each week. So, if you're already a Twitterer, go log in and make him your friend. If you're not, you can register for a free account. It's weird enough to merit a try. Savor the awkwardness a while.

Saturday, noon-4 p.m., somewhere in the Twin Cities. (Is it still OK to call it that?)

Also through Metroblogging Minneapolis, I discovered an interesting new "biking" event this weekend. The PedalPub is coming to town! That's right, folks, you can finally drink, exercise, and socialize all at the same time. Yes, just like a kickball game, but on wheels. Come try it out this Saturday. Get a free ride on the PedalPub, free hot dogs, free sodas (as supplies last), and... give away your free image for their marketing purposes. There's always a catch.

Saturday from noon to 3 p.m., Father Hennepin Bluffs Park, at 6th Ave SE and Main Street (by the entrance of the Stone Arch Bridge), Free.

MUSIC
A Couple of White Folk

The 400 Bar never ceases to amaze me. Somehow their relatively small, dingy and dirty space seems to draw some of the best folk acts in town -- and a few more innovative ones at that. Tonight, James Morrison and Jessie Baylin take the stage (not together). British country boy, James Morrison serves up some soul in a way that only white guys do -- when they actually have soul and a voice to boot. No, really. I'm not just making fun here. If you dig Dylan's style (not that I would EVER compare anyone to Dylan), then you'll probably appreciate Morrison's peculiar voice (though sweet), clever lyrics, and soulful song (though he definitely leans more toward the love songs). He's kind of like a Jack Johnson with soul, actually. How can that be bad?

Oh, and Jessie Baylin -- she sounds quite lovely to me (and looks lovely, too). A fan of Steve Nicks and Joni Mitchell, and friend to Scarlett Johansson, Baylin's sweet melodies have a folkified touch of Natasha Bedingfield.

9 p.m., 400 Bar, 400 Cedar Ave. S., Minneapolis, 612-332-2903 $12.00.

Listen to James Morrison.
Listen to Jessie Baylin.

MUSIC
White Man Sings the Blues

We've all heard of Bob Dylan, Tom Waits, even Robert Johnson; and yet the name John Hammond Jr. rings no bells for some. (Tell me you at least remember his father. The man is responsible for discovering Benny Goodman, Count Basie, Billie Holiday, Robert Johnson, Bessie Smith, Bob Dylan, Aretha Franklin, Pete Seeger, and Bruce Springsteen.) While Junior has not enjoyed his father's commercial success, he has been entertaining us for the over 40 years, earning himself a Grammy Award and releasing over 25 albums. Emerging from the American folk scene of the 60s, Hammond has since been entertaining blues, folk, and rock audiences around the world with his intense solo-acoustic blues. And don't miss tonight's opening act --- local, fingerstyle guitarist Phil Heywood. It promises to be a soul-grabbing event.

7:30 p.m., Cedar Cultural Center, 416 Cedar Ave. S., Minneapolis, 612-338-2674, $16.

Listen to John Hammond Jr.
Listen to Phil Heywood.

Looking for something a little more hardcore? Check out Billy Talent at the 7th Street Entry tonight. The Toronto-based quartet has been lauded as one of the premiere punk acts of the new millennium.

5 p.m., all ages, The 7th Street Entry, First Avenue, 701 First Ave. N., Minneapolis, 612-332-1775, $10 advance, $12 door.

Listen to Billy Talent.

COMEDY
What's So Funny about Facial Hair?

I mean, mustaches I could see laughing at -- but beards? Apparently, it's the people donning them. Tonight some of our finest local writers, improvisers, and comedians will perform their own material in The Bearded Gentlemen comedic showcase. The bearded gentlemen -- Mike Fotis, Brian Beatty, Daniel Hetzel, Levi Weinhagen, John Haynes, and Nate Melcher -- will each take the stage for 15 minutes of solo comedy. Collectively these writers and actors have performed with the Brave New Workshop, ComedySportz Twin Cities, Ministry of Cultural Warfare, Louie Anderson, and Ferrari McSpeedy.

8 p.m., Brave New Workshop Theatre, 612-332-6620, $10.

THEATER
A Musical Celebration of American Women

If beards just aren't your thing, maybe a glorification of womanhood is more your style. Tonight is the premiere performance of Suzanna Winter's Where the Girls Are, brought to you by Blue Umbrella Productions. Using popular music as a vehicle, this musical revue examines the evolution of women's rights and roles in America. The vast musical repertoire includes such greats as "I Wanna Be Loved by You," "Diamonds are a Girl's Best Friend," "These Boots are Made for Walkin'," "I Will Survive," and "Girls Just Wanna Have Fun."

7:30 p.m., The Lowry Lab Theater., The Lowry Building across from the St. Paul Hotel, 360 St. Peter Street Saint Paul, 651-646-2943, $15.

Note: Tomorrow's performance will be ASL interpreted, and the April 7th performance will be Audio described.

LECTURE
A Woman of Substance and Spine

While many of us nestle in our beds dreaming of exotic adventures, there are indeed women in our midst furrowing into the recesses of Conrad's dark continent . As part of St. Catherine's Women of Substance Series , Lisa Ling -- the first woman host of the award-winning documentary series Explorer from the National Geographic Channel -- will be speaking tonight at The O'Shaughnessy . Come hear about this gutsy woman's travels and adventures from India to the Congo.

7:30 p.m., The O'Shaughnessy, College of St. Catherine, 2004 Randolph Avenue, Saint Paul, 651-690-6700, $32 adults.

Or if you'd rather cut to the chase with something a bit more academic, go hear Kevin Gaines lecture on Confronting History, Race, and Stereotypes. (Lord knows we could all use a little more learning in this arena.) Kevin Gaines is a professor of history and director of The Center for Afroamerican and African Studies at the University of Michigan. He will examine America's relationship to anti-black racial stereotypes, and the historical connections present in Kara Walker's work. Plus, if you get to The Walker by 6 p.m., you can take a tour of Paper Trail: A Decade of Acquisitions.

7:30 pm, Cinema, Walker Art Center, 1750 Hennepin Ave, Minneapolis, 612-375-7600, Free, but ticket required -- available at 6:30 pm at the Bazinet Garden Lobby desk.

SHOPPING
Sprinkle on a Little Latin Sparkle

Sepia -- art within accessories -- is having their Spring Open House today. Venezuelan-owned Sepia opened in Northeast Minneapolis last Fall, featuring jewelry and accessories designed by Latin American artists. Go be the first to see their spring collections. Drink some wine. Sample the hors d'oeuvre. And make use of the 10-percent discount. Any birthdays or anniversaries coming soon? This might be a good place to find some unique gifts.

4-8 p.m., SEPIA, 201 6th St. SE, Suite 100, Minneapolis, 612-379-0309, 10% off.

FILM
Yes, We Make Movies Here

Not really sure what people are referring to when they speak of the local film community? See for yourself at tonight's March 2007 Fearless Filmmakers Screening Event. Get a little taste for what local and regional filmmakers have been producing. Experience a young family's journey to euthanasia, personal fulfillment at the end of a cake, a modern-day Noah, college-educated pistol banter, the panty-clad gal horror cliche, a baby-sitting nightmare with a comedic twist, a shy office-worker spreading God's love, a friendly exchange, and a re-definition of wingman -- all in one sitting.

7:30 p.m., The Oak Street Cinema, 309 Oak Street SE, Minneapolis, 612-331-3134, $9 general admission, $7 students, $5 MN Film Arts members.

Then join the After Party at Stub and Herbs, 227 Oak Street, Minneapolis.

FILM LECTURE
Who Doesn't Love a Good Spy Movie?

Ever wonder what makes a good spy movie? Why Hollywood is obsessed with the CIA? What the CIA's relationship is to Hollywood? William Mitchell College of Law is presenting a free program tonight, "A Strange Bond: The CIA and The Cinema." Guest speakers include Mark Bowden, Atlantic Monthly reporter and author of Black Hawk Down; Star Tribune movie critic and Rake contributor Colin Colvert; and former CIA William Daugherty and Paul Kelbaugh. How can this not be interesting?

7-8:30 p.m., Auditorium, William Mitchell College of Law, 875 Summit Avenue, Saint Paul, 651-290-6400, Free. Register here.

THEATER
Sing the Beloved Aria

Looking to restore your faith in brotherhood and compassion? Maybe tonight is the night for you to go see the Skylark Opera's performance of Lost in the Stars. Based on Cry, the Beloved Country, Alan Paton's angry 1948 novel about apartheid in South Africa, this adaptation was penned by Maxwell Anderson and composed Kurt Weill -- better known for his collaborations with poet and epic dramatist Bertolt Brecht. The jazzy opus has a largely black cast and is rooted in African-American music. Go see it tonight, Friday or Saturday night, or Sunday at 3.

8 p.m., Ritz Theater, 345 13th Ave NE, Minneapolis, 651-209-6689, $20 - $50.

MUSIC
21st-Century Singer-Songwriters

This year, VH1 launched its first-ever You Oughta Know Tour in an effort to introduce artists on the rise to their adult music-lover base. I think that's us. And to be honest, they've put together a rather solid line-up: Mat Kearney, The Feeling, and Rocco Deluca and The Burden. Acoustic folk/pop, singer-songwriter Mat Kearney serves up music with an acoustic base and hints of spoken word and even rap. Although he's often associated with the Christian music scene, this 28-year-old has opened for The Fray, Sheryl Crow, and John Mayer. Also playing is U.K. band The Feeling. With two Top 10 international hit singles -- "Sewn" and "Fill My Little World" -- The Feeling offers a broad range of music for fans lamenting the golden age of Top 40 radio. They're like My Chemical Romance with cheesier, prettier harmonies. (My Chemical Romance meets The Beatles?) And last, but definitely not least, Rocco DeLuca offers a fresh sound with a Dobro steel guitar and elements of Appalachian and Blues influences. DeLuca and The Burden are the first group to sign with Jude Cole and Kiefer Sutherland's independent record label, Ironworks Music. Rolling Stone recently wrote, "The echoes of Neil Young, Robert Plant, Jeff Buckley and Pearl Jam blend into something unique, especially when performed live ... the group packs the heat and rocks aggression to work its way into your head and stay there."

7 p.m., First Avenue, 701 First Avenue North, Minneapolis, 612-332-1775, $18.00 advance, $20.00 door.

Listen to Mat Kearney.
Listen to The Feeling.
Listen to Rocco DeLuca and The Burden.

MUSIC
Urban Crooning

True, Lloyd got his start with teen pop group N-Toon -- put together by Klymaxx's Joyce Irby -- but he's a whopping 21 years old now, and far more mature. OK, not that much, but he did acquire a few adult influences. Adding a little touch of Marvin Gaye and R. Kelley, Lloyd finally made his claim to fame, topping the BET playlist with a sultry duet with Beyonce-wannabe Ashanti. And now, well... it's up to you to say.

9 p.m., Escape Ultra Lounge, 600 Hennepin Avenue Suite 200, Minneapolis, 612-333-8855, $25-$45.

Watch and listen to Lloyd.

READINGS
USPS: United States Postal Stories

It's not often that a mailman writes a book about his mail-delivery adventures. But this is exactly what Vincent Wyckoff has done in Beware of Cat: And Other Encounters of a Letter Carrier. After 15 years as a letter carrier in South Minneapolis, walking the same route each day, Wyckoff has compiled his stories into a community portrait of sorts.

7 p.m., Barnes and Noble Roseville II, 2100 Snelling Ave N, Saint Paul, 651-639-9256, Free.

READINGS
Eclectic, Learned, and Wise

Looking for something more grandiloquent? Go see Leslie Adrienne Miller read some poetry from her new book, The Resurrection Trade. A marriage of science and poetry reminiscent of the metaphysical poets -- Miller's poetry speaks to 18th-century medicine and the mystery of the female body. Former US Poet Laureate Ted Kooser wrote that, "For me The Resurrection Trade is very much like being given a rare chance to have dinner with one of the most interesting conversationalists in the world. These poems are delightfully eclectic, learned and wise, and it is a privilege to have this fine book as guest in the house."

7 p.m., The Loft, 1011 Washington Ave S, Minneapolis, 612-215-2576, Free.

Read "The Flayed Angel," by Leslie Adrienne Miller.

COMEDY
Stand-up Stand-off

Last Comic Standing is coming back for a 5th season, and Minneapolis has been chosen as one of the five national audition cities. (That's right; this season is going international, so Australia, Canada, and England will also host auditions.) Auditions start at 9 a.m., but those of us less-funny people can watch the finals later that night -- after the line-up has been a bit distilled.

8 p.m., Acme Comedy Company, Historic Itasca Building, 708 1st St N, Minneapolis, 612-338-6393, $15, $27 dinner and show package.

LECTURE
The Gay Publishing Elite

Call them elegant, slick, pornographic, and even pretentious, but Jop van Bennekom's magazines are just plain great to look at. Influenced by English music magazines, as well as Peter Saville's designs for Joy Division and New Order back in the 80s, Jop van Bennekom is now designer, editor, and publisher for three different magazines -- RE-, Butt, and Fantastic Man -- and has become one of Europe's most influential magazine designers at only thirty-six years of age. That's right, there might be hope for some of us yet. Come hear him talk about his work tonight at the Walker. Get inspired.

7:00 pm, Walker Cinema, Walker Art Center, 1750 Hennepin Ave., Minneapolis, 612.375.7600, $24 ($12 AIGA/Walker members/students).

MUSIC
Don't Overlook the Obvious

It's nice to be reminded, now and then, that Minneapolis still has an impressive local music scene on all fronts. You don't have to sit around and wait for the next great jazz band to swing into town. Tonight at the Fine Line our very own Sol Spectre will be playing with The Higgle and Histrionic. Looking for a nice relaxing evening of improvisational jazz? They're solid. They're pleasant. They'll get your head bobbing with a variety of jazz fusion, eclectic rock, experimental improvisation, and even a dose of electronica to spice things up.

8 p.m., Fine Line Music Cafe, 318 1st Ave N, Minneapolis, 612-338-8100.

Listen to Sol Spectre

MUSIC
Rock from Down Under

Did any of you see the "Free Hugs" video on YouTube last year? If so, then you've heard The Sick Puppies. The band's song "All The Same" provided the soundtrack to the popular YouTube video and earned them exposure on Oprah, Jay Leno, 60 Minutes, and CNN. Influenced by Green Day and Rage Against The Machine, The Sick Puppies are a three-piece, guitar-fueled-rock band. They have garnered a number prestigious awards, including Best Song from Triple J Unearthed, and Best Live Performance from the Australian Live Music Awards. They have toured with Good Charlotte, Deep Purple, and Midnight Oil. The Australian edition of Rolling Stone called them "the most dynamic new band in the country." And to be honest, they don't sound anything like sick puppies.

6 p.m., 7th Street Entry, 701 1st Ave N, Minneapolis, 612-332-1775, $6.

Listen to The Sick Puppies

SPORTS
Will the Real Minnesota Sport Please Stand Up

After their 82-85 loss to the Seattle Sonics last week, let's hope the Timberwolves feel inclined to prove themselves against the Sonics' seemingly solidified defense. Tonight's rematch might seem like a worthless game in the general NBA arena, but the Timberwolves still have a chance at the final playoff spot in the Western Conference, so go cheer them on. In the end, it's a win either way, as they still have a chance at retaining their status as one of the NBA's 10 worst.

7 p.m., Target Center, 600 1st Ave N., Minneapolis, 612-673-0900, $10-$700.

Read Britt Robson's Timberwolves Blog: On the Ball

I realize that everyone is distracted with basketball and baseball, but what ever happened to Minnesota hockey? Did it fade away with the cold Minnesota winters? Don't let El Nino deprive you of your heritage. Get out there and support the Minnesota Wild against the Calgary Flames tonight. (And if you're wondering why the bottom-price tickets cost more than the bottom-price basketball tickets, remember, they have to keep that ice frozen.)

7 p.m., Xcel Energy Center, 175 W Kellogg Blvd., Saint Paul, 651-989-5151, $16 to $250.

We all know that the true Minnesota sports don't take place in arenas or rinks. They occur in the wild, on the lake, and in the woods. And this wouldn't be a true Minnesota publication if we failed to mention The Northwest Sportshow, starting today in our lovely Convention Center. (Did you forget what that big building complex over on 2nd and 13th was?) Come check out the best in boats, RV's, fishing tackle, hunting gear, trips, and more. There are also plenty of activities for kids. Yeah, you've got until Sunday to get there, but tonight only, the first 500 attendees will receive a 75th Anniversary commemorative bobber. How's that for incentive!

5 p.m. to 9 p.m., Minneapolis Convention Center, 1301 2nd Ave S., Minneapolis, 612-335-6000, adults $10, youth (13-15) $5, and children (12 and under) free.

DANCE
Heat It Up

Did you think you were going to have an opportunity to see some great ballet or flamenco this evening? Think again. Rather than sitting around watching, it's time to get that rear end off the chair and oil those hinges a bit. Learn how to Tango, baby. It's a little pricey, but don't worry, your greatly honed skills will not go to waste. If you manage to master a few moves, you can go show them off on Sunday night at the Loring Pasta Bar.

4 p.m. - 7:30 p.m., The Whole, Coffman Memorial Union, 300 Washington Ave. S.E., Minneapolis, 612-624-6224, $28.00 for U of M Students/Staff/Faculty, $48.00 for general public.

Hallelujah; it's Monday and there's actually something of interest going on, I mean, aside from the 70-degree weather. Straight outta our March So Little Time section (I wrote this little ditty--it was a while back now--and don't want to reinvent the wheel): Joe Boyd had his fingers in all sorts of music-history pies. While still in his early twenties and freshly graduated from Harvard, he served as Muddy Waters' tour manager. Then, when Dylan went electric at the Newport Folk Festival in 1963, it was a young Boyd who performed the fateful (and, some would claim, sacrilegious) task of plugging in the guitar. He later went on to produce records for, among others, Nick Drake, Eric Clapton, Pink Floyd, REM, 10,000 Maniacs, and Billy Bragg. He even produced soundtracks for films--most notably, for A Clockwork Orange. But it was the 1960s folk scene that left the deepest impression on Boyd's character. In his recently released autobiography, White Bicycles: Making Music in the 1960s, Boyd not only captures his own experiences, but also paints portraits of many of the other key players of the era and ponders the consequences of white folks' appropriation of black people's music. 416 Cedar Ave. S., Minneapolis; 612-338-2674; www.thecedar.org