Fool's Brigade

2011-04-01T15:05:00.003-04:00

The Fools Brigade has been delayed this year but our organizers & sponsors are just as involved in the community as ever. April 13th Hospice Benefit presented by Mark Lynch, Nikki Smith & Snug Harbor -April 15th Save Charlotte Music presented by Shuffle Magazine & Neighborhood Theatre.

Double Rainbow!

2010-10-01T16:15:00.000-04:00

Maura Tierney Asks: Will Fool's Brigade Live Again?

2010-09-22T15:05:00.003-04:00

With THANKS to thePublicPage.

2010-06-15T13:24:00.004-04:00

via Charlotte Ads

A Heartfelt THANK YOU to Natural Balance Pet Foods and Urban Pet, Charlotte!

2010-04-01T15:43:00.004-04:00

We want to thank Natural Balance Pet Foods and Urban Pet for their generous donation of $500 worth of pet food to Project HALO.

Follow the examples set by them and come out this weekend. We'll see you Friday and Saturday, for Charlotte's greatest night of music and musicians! The Fool's Brigade happens at Snug Harbor, 1228 Gordon St., Charlotte, NC.

April 1st Development: Paul Westerberg Refuses Honor of Fool's Brigade Treatment, States He Prefers Cats.

2010-04-01T14:39:00.015-04:00

Replacements front-man and indie music icon Paul Westerberg, in a statement issued April 1st, declined the auspicious honor of an entire Fool's Brigade Benefit dedicated to his words and the music of the 'Mats.

The show, originally to be held on 04/02/10 at Snug Harbor, 1228 Gordon St. in Charlotte, is in a state of chaos. Long-time Fool's Brigadier Darrin Gray had this to say: "04/01/10 will forever be known, to me, personally, as the day the music died."

Recently signed to Spectra Records artist and winner of The Fool's Brigade "Participant Award", Jay Garrigan, was reeling: "I'll call in all my favors, by gum! We'll get my label mates Orleans on the case; it'll be the best Fool's Brigade yet!"

No comment was obtainable as of press time from the other great bands slated to play, including One Another, You Tonight, Dirtbag Love Affair, Fat Camp, Spalding Grays, The Houstons, The Sammies and The Mangles!

The Seventh Annual Fool's Brigade Benefit, 04/02/10 and 04/03/10 at Snug Harbor!

2010-03-26T16:47:00.001-04:00

Friday April 2nd and Saturday April 3rd, 2010 at Snug Harbor, The Fool's Brigade Annual Benefit returns, with two titanic nights, singing the songs of the unsung!

This year's show benefits Project HALO Animal Shelter, "Helping Animals Live On!" As always, 100% of the proceeds go to the designated charity!

Friday Night’s showcase of the music of Paul Westerberg and The Replacements will feature performances by (in no particular order):

One Another, You Tonight, Dirtbag Love Affair, Fat Camp, Spalding Grays, The Houstons, The Sammies and The Mangles

ALSO, as always, the Fools Brigade House Band, featuring members of all your favorite local bands playing together for this special night!

Saturday Night’s musical tour of the oeuvre of Alex Chilton and Big Star will feature performances by (in no particular order):

Lou Ford, The Catch Fire, Transmission Fields, The Houstons, Raised By Wolves, Elves, Noises 10 and Mitch Easter Band (tentative)

ALSO, as always, the Fools Brigade House Band, featuring members of all your favorite local bands, playing together for this special night!

Easter weekend, 2010, children by the million sing for Alex Chilton!

Rock and Roll Is Here to Stay, Come Inside Now It's OK.

2010-03-18T10:36:00.004-04:00

Alex Chilton of Big Star and The Box Tops, the man whose voice launched a thousand bands, died in New Orleans yesterday of an apparent heart attack. He was 59 years old. Talented and influential, his lyrics and songs have shaped popular music for almost 40 years.

On his fame and influence, Mr. Chilton had this to say: "What would be ideal would be to make a ton of money and have nobody know about you," he said. "Fame has a lot of baggage to carry around. I wouldn't want to be like Bruce Springsteen. I don't need that much money and wouldn't want to have 20 bodyguards following me."

Dog and Monkey Rodeo

2010-01-25T15:30:00.003-05:00

One step closer to the Planet of The Apes: Monkeys invent Cavalry, also chaps.

Can industrialization be far behind? There are rumors that this UNMISSABLE event will conflict with Easter weekend's Fool's Brigade Benefit(x2)! More as the story develops!

2010-01-20T23:14:00.003-05:00

Big Star 4/3

2010-01-20T23:13:00.003-05:00

The Replacements 4/2

7th Annual Fools Brigade Benefit Friday April 2nd & Saturday April 3rd @ Snug Harbor

2010-01-20T23:09:00.006-05:00

For 7 years the Fool's Brigade has staged an annual benefit for a local charity, featuring Charlotte bands and musicians highlighting the artists who influenced them the most.

It returns on Friday & Saturday April 2 & 3 2010, to benefit Project HALO, featuring the music of The Replacements & Big Star @ SNUG HARBOR Charlotte, NC.

The Annual Benefit was founded in 2004 to aid the recently laid off workers at Pillowtex. Subsequent shows have benefited Crisis Assistance Ministry, Hospice of Charlotte, The Charlotte Community Charter School, The Metrolina AIDS Project, Jacob's Ladder Job Center and now Project HALO .

Previous shows featured the songs of Tom Waits, The Kinks, music form world famous NY rock-club CBGBs, David Bowie & The Rolling Stones raising nearly $30,000 for deserving Charlotte-based charities.

This annual event was established with a dual intent; to provide assistance to a worthy cause and to shine a spotlight on the talented group of local music makers who help make Charlotte a thriving and vibrant place to live. Last year’s show, focusing on the music of The Rolling Stones, brought in a record crowd and a record breaking amount of donations.

We look forward to topping it this year!

SHAKE OFF THE TRYPTOPHAN!

2009-11-24T11:50:00.004-05:00

Come get away from your family

Special Investigation - Atheist Alert

2009-10-31T09:48:00.003-04:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NWKDOikIgIs

By 25, almost no one listens to it...

2009-09-09T13:25:00.003-04:00

A friend recently discovered a time-worn newspaper article from the 1963-era Peoria Journal Star entitled "Unhappy Like Rock n' Roll, Prof Reports." This is the dawn of science, dear friends! And the quoted professor had an almost Nostradamus-like vision of the future!

In addition to saying "I told you so," I thought I would reprint it for all of my sinful friends. View it here in it's entirety.

Yes, Its Another Blog.

2009-09-07T13:29:00.000-04:00

Hello Brigadiers!

I apologize for my near complete desertion of this blog. I'm afraid the dear Goddess of Internet Musings has not frequented my den for quite some time. That's not to say I don't miss blogging... it's just what I've been writing is very uninspired.

So, if'n your curious to see what I'm getting into, visit me at the Public Page. And I'll be checking in from time to time.

Your friend and cohort,
Molly J.

Trouble Walkers are set to rock you gently

2009-09-06T12:57:00.002-04:00

Tonite: Rock-n-Roll Style Music @ The Milestone

2009-09-04T09:44:00.000-04:00

2009-08-27T10:44:00.000-04:00

Jersey Rocks!

2009-08-26T12:28:00.003-04:00

It's true... they have entire buildings dedicated to liquor. A lot of places still seem like Springsteen songs come to life, in the "My Hometown" kind of way, but there are some real signs of life improving along the Jersey shore.

Read more of my thoughts on this beautiful part of the much-maligned state (which we experienced with the talented Nicole Atkins as our guide this past week) at creativekungfu.com.

"....the only thing in the whole world that matters...."

2009-08-21T14:49:00.002-04:00

So, yeah, I totally listen to Fleetwood Mac, like, all the time. You all know this.

It's Stevie solo, though, that's happenin' right now. You might say, "Ugh. Even 'Leather and Lace'?" And I'll say, "Yeah! Is your heart so hollow? And 'Stand Back' and 'Rooms on Fire' and on and on! Ooh, 'Kind of Woman,' too! I think it's time you got hip to it: Sincerity is where it's at."

But I don't care what you think. This shit is great. Look at that flapping wing thing she does there. So disarmingly literal..... Don't forget to watch to the end, when she runs back out and gets a little teary. And, yes, those diaphanous robes can get caught in your 8" platforms, it seems....

This Man is Playing at the Muse Tonight- 8pm!

2009-08-13T18:39:00.001-04:00

I'll let you guess who it is.

2009-08-13T14:40:00.002-04:00

Arty Art

2009-08-10T16:19:00.002-04:00

In a move destined to make him the Klaus Voorman of the Queen City rock scene, Brigadier Johnny Mo and erstwhile-Brigadier-esposa Patty Mac are donning black, eating tiny, tiny portions, and quoting Sartre next Friday night at a NEW gallery on Shamrock, Trés Chouette.

"Trés Chouette" means, by the way, "supa-kewel" in French. So I imagine the phrase "Bruce Hazel est Trés Chouette" is not too uncommon in the city of lights.

But anyway, an all points invite to all Brigadoons, friends, art lovers, etc. Next Friday at 7pm, and the show will be up through September.

2009-07-31T13:52:00.002-04:00

I stole it from datawhat.

I Have Waited For Years For The Original Ghostbusters To Be Available!

2009-07-30T19:29:00.005-04:00

Thanks to the recent resolution of the decades-long legal battle, the original Ghostbusters finally gets it's due! The re-release of this forgotten comedy classic has it's long-overdue roll-out with a couple of special events in the next few weeks (and months):

1) It will be featured on the Sunday's broadcast of TCM's The Essentials, with Dan Akroyd and Ernie Hudson joining Robert Osborne to host and give a some special commentary.

2) A Criterion quality DVD release of the original film, with commentary tracks from Jerry Lewis, Roger Ebert and Sydney Lumet, who was the AD for Director Ivan Guerrero. Lumet's commentary was completed just days before his untimely death. Also included are the original theatrical trailer, production stills and split-screen, side-by-side comparisons between it and 1984's better known Ghostbusters remake.

3) Theatrical release that will play in Charlotte at The Manor this September!

I Finally Might Get Me One Of Them Car Phones.

2009-07-28T21:17:00.002-04:00

Where do you get 'em off-the-back-of-the-truck-cheap?

lay one on me, don't be a bring-down!

2009-07-28T12:42:00.000-04:00

W. o. W.

HYAHHH!!!

2009-07-28T08:54:00.002-04:00

Before a bunch of lame-o 90's bands got a hold of this, it sort of rüled. And Thin Lizzy rüled.

Man's Best Friend Phil

2009-07-21T15:12:00.004-04:00

He's so Continental...

Wednesday July 22nd Happy Birthday Buddy

A Brief History of The Fool's Brigade: Bruce Hazel

2009-07-18T09:47:00.003-04:00

This glamour shot was taken of Bruce for his Senior High All-American Glee Club. It was only after his torrid love affair with his Russian-speaking math teacher, Ms. Natasha, that Bruce developed his communist sensibilities.

What The Fool's Brigade Be Doing This Weekend!

2009-07-17T12:00:00.008-04:00

Saturday ~~and Monday~~ offers ~~two (!)~~ a chance to see Bill Noonan and His Fallen Gentlemen at the Comet Grill. The show starts at 9.

Sunday is your big chance! Did you miss the Tejano-themed fun at Snug’s second anniversary party back in May? Don’t pass up the chance to go to their 2nd Annual Sunday Weiner Roast, including the douby-fresh line-up featuring 2013 Wolves, Use Your Inside Voices, L.A. Tool & Die, The Dirty Little Heaters and Fool’s Brigade Alum La Chocha Loca! The grill starts at 4pm, the musics at 5pm!

I Like Comic Books. I Like the Iron Man Movie. I Like Scarlett Johansson.

2009-07-17T11:47:00.003-04:00

This does not displease me.

The Twitter of 1986!

2009-07-16T14:54:00.001-04:00

Twitter Micro-Blogging: Revolution In Social Media Or Old Fashioned Self-Absorption?

2009-07-16T14:52:00.000-04:00

Did you ever had a friend who regaled you with stories about their friends you don't know, their kids who you don't care about, or their jobs which you aren't paid for?

According to the lexicographers at Oxford University Press, here are the top three (3) words used on Twitter:

the=407,614
i=401,053
to=350,737

"You" came in at number 9, with 168,292 uses, "me" came in at 19 with 78,441 uses, and "we" showed up in the middle of the list with a measly 39,158 uses.

This August, The Battle Royale Begins Again: Hazel Versus Hazel!

2009-07-16T11:08:00.009-04:00

Anybody who is anyone knows about about the long-standing enmity that exists between Bruce Hazel & Some Volunteers frontman Bruce Hazel and the entirety of the laid-back-folk-rock group Sister Hazel, especially bassist/Floridian Jeff Beres.

The feud has been relatively quiet for the past 10 years, since Bruce's climactic battle with the band at Los Angeles' Griffith Observatory. The engagement ended in a stalemate, but cost the lives of numerous Hollywood hanger-ons, several local newscasters and everybody at the premier of Pushing Tin (Sadly, every movie you've seen with John Cusack and Billy Bob Thorton since then was completed with CGI, robots and clips from their old movies. THIS IS A FACT. LOOK IT UP.).

Tensions were reignited this week, when Sister Hazel announced that they are bringing their unique blend of mellow acousto-rock to Charlotte once again, the DAY BEFORE Bruce & Some Volunteers are to play "The Yauhaus" on August 21st.

If I were you, I WOULD GET OUT OF TOWN!

UPDATE at 2:59pm EDT- Bruce Hazel says: "Hilarious. Too bad we ain't playin' @ Yauhaus"

UPDATE 2 at 3:02pm EDT- Bruce Hazel says: "Shawn will be out on the road with Mitch Easter. We are playing Friday Aug 7 @ Snug."

UPDATE 3 at 3:08pm EDT, via Tweeting- Sister Hazel says "cause Bruce H. is on my Johnson!"

Joey Bishop Lives!

2009-07-15T19:39:00.000-04:00

Upcoming Week Holds Promise Of New Love, Music, Black Lashes.

2009-07-15T15:30:00.003-04:00

Zoe Vette & the Revolvers have their CD Release Party this Saturday Night, exclusively at Snug Harbor, "The Home of the Whopper!"

Also appearing on this warm summer night will be Dirtbag Love Affair and Black Lashes, recently returned from their tour of Europe and the Penguin.

Additionally, "beloved" (?) comedian "The Elder Statesman" will make with the funny-funny right before Zoe's set. I don't know much about Elder, but I can only assume he performs comedy in the Borscht-Belt tradition of Shecky Green, a true comedy master!

I first met Shecky Green on the set of The Joey Bishop Show in 1967. Shawn Lynch, Regis Philbin and I had been called in to solve the murder of Peter Lawford. Long story short, Lawford wasn't dead, he'd just drank too much Sterno and passed out backstage. Then Regis got into a fist-fight with Bishop, which was broken up by Dick Cavett, who subsequently stole his time slot. Anyway, Shecky was nice and bought all of us fudge.

Good times.

Alert Chad Wilson! The Greatest Movie Prop From The Greatest Movie EVER is Availiable For Purchase!

2009-07-15T15:23:00.003-04:00

Here is another good one from our other Internet friends over at Neatorama. The Universal Studios Ghostbusters ambulance is for sale on the "ebay"

Did you just hear that sound? It is the sound of me poopin' myself.

2009-07-15T15:18:00.002-04:00

More here.

2009-07-15T14:30:00.002-04:00

Our fine Internet friends at mentalfloss have posted TWO interesting articles today, one with appeal only to me, the world's biggest glass harmonica fan, and one for Bruce Hazel, the man who would marry a 4-track recorder, if only it were legal.

Ch-Ch-Check 'em out.

It Is Time For The Showdown!

2009-07-15T14:20:00.009-04:00

Last night, as I slept soundly upon the dirt cot I call a bed, Creative Loafing's Jeff Hahne came to me, ascending from the sky on a Heavenly Éclair.

He came to spread the word about tonight's Crown-Town-Show-Down, which has, as of this month, upgraded to the Neighborhood Theatre.

And Jeff spoketh unto me:

"As always, it's six bands/artists for five bucks, including American Aquarium, Brandy Robinson, Bums Lie, Eric-Scott Guthrie, Machete and Overzealous. It's...usually done around midnight, too, so you’ll make it to work on time the next day. You’ve got no excuse unless you hate good music."

And then we wrestled. It was AWESOME.

A Brief History of the Fool's Brigade: Mark Lynch

2009-07-12T11:10:00.002-04:00

Pictured here with his first band, Alice and the Kneelers, Mark soon began dominating the Charlotte bass-scene one bar mitzvah at a time.

Inspiration at 2:30

2009-07-11T14:56:00.000-04:00

Bill Noonan to Sell Music on "Compact Discs"

2009-07-11T12:32:00.005-04:00

In the quotable words of one "Davis":

"Bill Noonan and His Fallen Gentlemen The Man That I Can’t Be, Bill Noonan’s latest, still has that whiff of the Rank Outsiders, his former band, but he (in collaboration with producer Mark Lynch) has now hit upon a sound that suits him, featuring a soupcon of ’60s soul, two-car garage rock and classic country. Always one of the more underrated local rockers, Noonan has brought along many of his friends for the party, including David Childers, drummer David Kim, keyboardist Jason Atkins, the horn section of Ray Mitchell and Tom Kuhn, and silky chantreuse Beth Chorneau."

"The result is some seriously satisfying country soul, a genre that’s been relegated to the sidelines in recent years. Noonan’s impassioned take sounds like the msusical equivalent of a late-round pick who’s finally getting the chance to shine, calling audibles at the line (a cover of Gene Clark’s “Tried So Hard”), and taking over the huddle and making it his own. To further a bad analogy, The Man That I Can’t Be is a touchdown all the way around. Snug Harbor." (tonight, 10ish -ed.)

Plus, the first 10 people to buy a CD can ride the mechanical bar stool at Snug Harbor for free!

A Brief History of the Fool's Brigade: Chad Wilson

2009-07-10T20:55:00.005-04:00

It was soon after his sister's commencement that Chad began to play the guitar.

He still remains aloof.

Evening Muse to Give Stuff Away! Also, Live Music!!

2009-07-09T17:10:00.006-04:00

In a bold move, the Evening Muse is putting a music show while selling raffle tickets with the intent to actually give away prizes!!

The line-up goes like this:

7:30pm - Austin Hill
8:15pm - Fernandina
9:00pm - Mike Strauss Band
10:00pm - The Lesser Pauls

The prizes are thus:
U.S. National Whitewater Center: 1 All-sports pass
Amelie's, A French Bakery: delicious pastries
Mint Museum of Art: 4 admission tickets
Great Wolf Lodge: 1 free night
Boulevard at NoDa: free gift
Community Yoga: free yoga
Wolfman Pizza: $25 gift certificate
Dolce Vita Wines: gift certificate or bottle of wine
Dilworth Coffee Roastery: gift pack including Dilworth Coffee mug, 1 pound Brazil Conquista coffee beans, and One Pound of Organic Papua New Guinea coffee beans
Pretty Faces for All: gift certificate for makeup sessions for three people (for any and all Kiss cover bands!)
A smooch and a genuine bear hug from Mr. Joe Coolman

Come out tonite, support live music, get free stuff... only in Amerika! [sic]

....yep.....

2009-07-08T16:51:00.001-04:00

Were You Born On The 4th of July? And, Will Somebody Send Me A Picture That Has An Unobstructed Action View Of All Five Black Lashes?

2009-07-03T11:09:00.007-04:00

Do you like Independence, explosives and Ribs? Then do we have a weekend of sun and fun for YOU!

You've got a whole passel of chances to check out Benji Hughes; he's crooning Thursday night at Petra's, followed by a two-night residency at Snug Harbor! Friday night Benji will be joined by The Poontanglers who, rumor has it, will join him on stage for a couple of "numbers". Then, on the day that we fought to take back our planet from horrible aliens, "Fool's Brigade Favorites" Trouble Walkers ably aid and abet Benji!

The Penguin's 9th Annual Pig "Pickin" , wherein a hog is dressed up like Thomas Jefferson and chased through the streets of Plaza-Midwood, kicks off the 4th of July Festivities tomorrow at 6:00. Music will be the rule of the day, featuring performances from The Belmont Playboys, The Needles, The Dead Kings, M4 Messenger and Black Lashes!

And don't forget Phil's 3rd Annual-Semi-Annual Tour d'Ribs! If an animal has any kind of rib, we shall remove it and grill it!

Total Recall... of the Heart.

2009-07-01T22:08:00.000-04:00

Mark Lych Cries Foul Over Contest; States He Will No Longer Compete In Anything, Ever.

2009-06-29T13:35:00.005-04:00

She's not really the ugliest, 'cause of her beautiful soul.

Learn How To Be Hep, With Help From The Great Architect and Brent Bagwell.

2009-06-29T12:24:00.006-04:00

Dear Friends of Music,

So, this is the business. I mean it. Ridiculous music as live as it can be. Don’t be put off by the “jazz” word or the potentially foreign house-show vibe! This is no-bullshit music makin’. Don’t be deterred by anything, just come listen. Bring your beverages and some money to throw to the Chicago cats…..!!!!

Monday, June 29^th

@ 2328 Bay Street

9pm

a) Bo White – our man Bo will deliver the unvarnished truth in a set of favorites and soon-to-be favorites. Every time I hear him play, a different one of his songs stays stuck in my head…or a different sweet bridge…..

b) Josh Berman’s Old Idea – for those of you who have been to several of our shows at Century (Lay All Over Its or Fast Citizens, for instance?), you’ve likely seen some of these Chicagoans before, but not in this configuration. Touring to support their recent Delmark release, Josh brings his Old Idea band to town. It’s him on cornet, Keefe Jackson on tenor and bass clarinet, Jason Adasiewicz on vibes, Anton Hatwich on bass, and Nori Tanaka on drums. Coming on like some crazy lost Blue Note (…’67 or ’68?) with the real touch of contemporary life…..you should check this out! These guys are bringing relevant, modern jazz to the living room on Bay Street. For donations. Come on!

www.myspace.com/joshbermanchicago

www.allaboutjazz.com/php/article.php?id=33017

c) Great Architect – You know…..it’s Michael Houseman - drums, Casey ‘Bob Fields’ Malone - guitar and sampler, Ben Kennedy - cello and violin, and me - tenor and clarinet. We will play some of the music we make! You’ll like it!

Three sets, from song to jazz to sound. In a nice wood-floor living room. For a paltry donation. Monday-style. Were there an afterlife, it might resemble this……..

The Charlotte Observer Covers Molly J And Hot House Hefftones.

2009-06-27T20:20:00.002-04:00

"It sure would be nice if I could get paid with all of my bands", says Molly.

Check out the pictures HERE.

An Apology To Bruce Hazel; A Chastisement Of A Sniff-Hound.

2009-06-26T16:29:00.004-04:00

We would like to offer a formal apology to Bruce Hazel, after accusing him of common-law infidelity recently.

Evidently, a picture snapped by our previously "loyal" sniff-hound was nothing but a FABRICATED FRAUD. In fact, Sniffy was attempting to cover-up his own string of infidelities, as seen in this picture of him with a dog WHO IS NOT HIS WIFE!

We humbly apologize.

Qui Bono? The Investigation Begins!

2009-06-26T12:55:00.003-04:00

Who benefits from the sudden and shocking death of the so-called "King of Pop", the self-proclaimed Soda Emperor of the Midwest?

Taking a break from the investigation of the disappearance of Bruce Hazel, Molly J, Phil and Sniffy have been called in to solve this vexing case. Our chief suspect: Mark Sanford, whose steamy and torrid affair with a beautiful Argentinian has filled recent headlines.

In a completely fake interview with the embattled Governor, Sanford had this to say:

"Hypothetically, to get out of the news, it was either this or find WMDs in Iraq. And, c'mon, like that was gonna happen. Hypothetically, of course."

Where Has Bruce Hazel Been All Week?

2009-06-25T15:53:00.004-04:00

There have been numerous rumors circulating about our good pal Bruce Hazel this week, as none of us has seen or heard from him:

1) He is hiding at Old House Studios with Chris Garges and Mike Batlin, working on his solo acoustic album, Omaha NE, including such tracks as Garden City (NJ), State Patrolman, Pre-Owned Vehicles and Open 24 hours (but not in a row).

2) He was outside doing yardwork, or on tour with Yardwork.

3) That his phone "couldn't get a signal", followed by extensive ATT-centric grumbling.

But then our trusty sniff-hound snapped this picture at Charlotte-eatery Las Margaritas. Who is this buxom and exotic beauty? Sniffy tells us she was heard speaking stressed English with a Latin inflection. We will continue to investigate.

Why Does Bruce Hazel Keep Wanting To Be Voted For? Run For City Council or Something! Jeezus.

2009-06-24T15:34:00.004-04:00

It is time to get out the VOTE! AGAIN! Creative Loafing's Annual "Best Of" voting has opened, so go here and cast your votes! While we have some suggestions, including the likes of Bruce Hazel & Some Volunteers, Guam High, Karla Marsh, Black Lashes, Jay Garrigan and Todd Busch and The 6th Annual Fool's Brigade: Exile on 36th St. for music related votes, we say: Vote your conscience (as long as your conscience agress with us!)!

And remember, Bruce is very sensitive and craves your approval. Please give it to him.

Molly J. Outraged By Fiscal Irresponsibility of Republican Governor Sanford.

2009-06-24T14:51:00.007-04:00

South Carolina (The First is Succession!) Governor Mark Sanford, recently returned from having walked the entire Argentinian leg of the Appalachian Trail, has admitted to having an "On-Line" affair with a woman from Argentina ("Now Home To Nazis and Republicans!"), leading to his resignation from the Republican Board of Governors or somesuch.

Fool's Brigadier Molly J. had this to say about the scandal:

"Why does a man have to fly to Argentina to get some strange he found in Cyber-Space? I am all over the internets, with my Video-Log (V.L.O.G.) as MoGirl69, my Web-Based Diary-ing at the Fool's Brigade (B.L.O.G.), numerous musical Y.O.U.TUBE clips...What's a girl got to do to get noticed?!?"

"Wouldn't the fiscally-responsible thing to do have been to take the 75-minute drive from Columbia to Charlotte, instead of a trans-continental flight? Damn Republicans."

Mike Strauss is Building the Perfect Band!

2009-06-20T16:23:00.003-04:00

Deep within the bowels of the Strauss residence strange lights glow, tubes bubble over with mysterious contents and science equipment make various beeping sounds.

This is the secret laboratory of Mike Strauss! Within his lair, Mike feverishly labors to achieve his ultimate dream-- CREATING THE PERFECT BAND!!

He toils night and day, his ambition becoming his obsession, a dream becoming a nightmare, the creation controlling the creator!!!

Anyways, he's playing tonight at the Evening Muse with a multitude of talented musicians- all eager to please their new master!

Tonight at 10:30pm, the Mike Strauss Band (opening for Stephen Warwick and the Secondhand Stories) will boast the talents of Jon Schigoda, Randolph Lewis, Donovan, Beth Brown, Molly J. Brown and Shawn Lynch!

With special guest, Hope Nichols, this event will leave you strangely satisfied!

Bruce Hazel Performs Live on I-90 S!

2009-06-20T12:24:00.003-04:00

Tonight, just South of Exit 94 in the commuter lane!

Honk if you love music!

The Hot House Hefftones... why not?

2009-06-19T17:00:00.002-04:00

I mean, it's not like you have plans tonight. Go see some sweet Tone action at either the Mint Museum on Randolph (6-9) or the Neighborhood Theater (10:30-??)

I know I'm going!

Don't make me squint at you.

NE-VO???

2009-06-18T14:31:00.000-04:00

Apparently, Neil Young had some help writing "Hey Hey, My My"... Crazy!
Neil Young & Devo

...real....from the TZ.....

2009-06-11T17:06:00.001-04:00

New Member Invited Into The Fool's Brigade Fold! Jeanine P!

2009-06-11T15:09:00.006-04:00

Some of you may have noticed my recent prolonged, post-abduction absence from our humble bulletin board.

Besides printing up broad-sheets for Colonial Williamsburg's ("The Non-Hipster Williamsburg!") Ye Olde Fool's Brigade, I was in seclusion following our very first NEGATIVE COMMENT. In the spirit of togetherness, we reach out to you, JEANINE P., to become our latest contributor. Your participation will ensure that no music related story is ever missed by the folks who do this churlish, sophomoric, pedantic and nonpaying blog!

We realize that we have let you, the 23 people who read The Fool's Brigade, down. We failed to offer in-depth coverage of Creative Loafing's/Charlotte Talks'/The Charlotte Observer's "Notable Event", Femme Fest '09. We would also like to apologize to their nearly 20 sponsors, the designer of their professional-looking website, the record-breaking number of people who attended and to the exciting roster of singers, bands and performing artists of the year's awesome and inspiring festival.

We're sorry :(

Thank You To Charlotte's Greatest Band SOME VOLUNTEERS! Or... Bruce learns to post photos!

2009-06-11T12:13:00.009-04:00

I would love to travel in a stinky, crowded, trash filled van with these fine folks!

Photo from future Volunteers 6 month road trip to Alaska!

Ready?

We lost Chad to a "Remember The Alamo" reenactment group and Brent will be a little late...

i know, i know... i'm ruining the blog

I've seen the future...

2009-06-11T11:37:00.001-04:00

... and I likes it!

Just In Case You Need Reminding--Bruce Hazel & Some Volunteers, 8:45, The Neighborhood Theatre!

2009-06-10T10:36:00.004-04:00

With Ted Leo and The Pharmacists and Titus Andronicus.

Brent Bagwell Foils Horn Triumvirate's Plan to "Play" With Josh Ritter.

2009-06-10T09:54:00.002-04:00

Molly J Brown, Trombonist, Pianist and Ecdysiast (DK only) accidentally sent me an "electronic mail" meant for one Chris Baucom:

From: "Baucom, Chris"
To: "Molly Brown"
Sent: Wednesday, May 20, 2009 9:45:20 AM
Subject: Exciting Opportunity

"I hear tell that Josh R. is looking horn players in each town of their upcoming tour 2 play with his band during 2/3 songs at each show (More info at http://www.joshritter.com/tour.php). We need to send an email to Doug at playwithjosh@gmail.com. Subject should be "HORNS FOR _______(concert city)". I asked Bagwell, and he refused...He went on & on (& on) about artistic intregrity, vegatables and how awesome we r. I hate him sooo much! I want sum cash-munny...anyway, lets kill him.

Sincerely,
MJB

Bruce Hazel to Play Show... with Music!!

2009-06-09T12:14:00.003-04:00

Wednesday Night at the Neighborhood Theater, music happens in a way that it has never happened before! What do we mean by that bold statement? It means we're building up the hype for an event the French press has dubbed "La chose la plus étonnante et la plus merveilleuse se produisant dans la musique, pour la musique, jamais!" or "LCLPEELPMSPDLMPLMJ!"

Anyways, Bruce Hazel and his Volunteers are opening for Ted Leo. You'd be a damn fool to miss this sonorous event! Tickets are on sale now. Go buy one.

You, too, could be as happy as Charlie Bucket if you purchased your own Ted Leo ticket!

Check Out Titus Andronicus

2009-06-09T12:04:00.002-04:00

Tomorrow 8:45pm TED LEO and The PHARMACISTS @ Neighborhood Theatre w/ Titus Andronicus and

Bruce Hazel & Some Volunteers

Feline Fest!

2009-06-07T01:07:00.001-04:00

Keepin' It Real.

2009-06-05T14:45:00.001-04:00

thankfully, I have accepting friends.

Where Have All The Rudeboys Gone?

2009-06-04T16:16:00.005-04:00

TED LEO and the PHARMACISTS @ Neighborhood Theatre w/ TITUS ANDRONICUS and Bruce Hazel & Some Volunteers

Get Yo Tickets Now!

Live Music? That's What This Blog's About?

2009-06-03T13:32:00.003-04:00

Well, music lovers, if you're looking to engorge yourself in some fine tune-age, than I best see you out and about this Thursday!

A local favorite, the Stellas, are back from their tour of Asia/Middle East, proving everyone everywhere loves Indie music. These local heroes will be playing it up with Flagship Brigade, Hot Lava Monster and Parallel (the band, not the universe.) Check it all out at Amos' Southend! Doors at 7:30pm (the entrance, not the band.)

If you're looking for a more chill environment, check out Benji Hughes! Most often joined by Jon Phillips (Jonny Wonder,) Peter Gray (Petey Wheatstraw) and David Kim (Davey Delicious,) it's a lounge extreme! It all starts around 10 at Petra's Piano Bar and Cabaret! If it was any more intimate, you'd prematurely ejaculate (not the official slogan of Petra's Piano Bar and Cabaret).

If you're in the mood for some amazing pizza and equally, if not more, amazing jams, then come out to the Pizza Peel to see Mike Strauss and his really big band! There's about a million beers on tap, the food is great, and so's the freaking music... so check it out! The Mike Strauss Band plays from 7-9pm at the Pizza Peel in Cotswold.

And if you're in the mood to drink, dance and possibly see somebody projectile vomit, go get Shiprocked with Scott Weaver. It's a dance party at Snug Harbor, bitches!

There ya' go. Thursday night, live music happens!

And in other news, Femme-Fest was a resounding success!

Patches, I'm Depending On You Son (To Ruin My Day).

2009-05-31T12:03:00.002-04:00

Have you ever been having a great day?

You know, the sun is shining, humidity is low...a beautiful day. Then Clarence Carter comes on, singing that damn song about his father dying and the crops getting all washed away, and makes you feel like poo.

I hate you "Patches".

Stockholm Syndrome Is Not A Laughing Matter: Join Us In A Race For A Cure.

2009-05-29T16:59:00.004-04:00

"Here is a picture of us in Sweden. Even now, I long to be with my captor, my sweet, sweet captor."

After my week long ordeal, kidnapped and held in captivity by paramour and Charlotte Super-Star Karla "Kitty Hawk" Marsh, I noticed a rash of strange thoughts and feelings:

Emotional bonding with my captor, and seeking approval from her
Enjoying sleekly designed modern furniture, priced affordably for the masses (this may also be a symptom of being white)
Depending on my captor for security and purpose of existence
Befriending and caring for my captor
Ravenous appetite for sweet, sweet meatballs in gravy (I have had this symptom for many years)
Resenting police and Molly for their rescue attempts
Interest in atmospheric films, especially when said films feature knights, plague-ridden landscapes, chess and the personification of Death, or any combination of such factors.
Seeing things from the perspective of my captor
Valuing every small gesture of kindness, such as letting me live
Stark driva på till dyrkan Thor, den Gud av åska.
Refusing freedom even when given the opportunity

Smoking Is Cool. Also, I Have Stockholm Syndrome.

2009-05-29T15:24:00.005-04:00

Myth: Smoking is "cool".
Fact: Smoking is super-cool.

Just minutes after being found and returned safely to my daily business earlier this week, I received a distressing piece of news: On May 18th, Andy Griffith fan and Phil-hater Beverly "Bev" Perdue instituted North Carolina's smoking ban.

I told all of you to vote for Pat McCrory for Governor, laying it out in my now famous "14 Points":

1) With well known square and benefit-hater McCrory out of Charlotte, permitless benefit practices will run rampant across the city.

2) Every Charlottean would have their own personal light rail that runs on dreams and emits Rye Whiskey and baby carrots. The Rye would make you more attractive and virile, just like Pat. The carrots would give you face cancer.

3) Raleigh will get nothing.

4) Pat McCrory would ensure absolute freedom of navigation upon the seas, outside territorial waters, alike in peace and in war, except as the seas may be closed in whole or in part by international action for the enforcement of international covenants.

5) Phil would be allowed to smoke inside in perpetuity.

6) Chapel Hill finally officially declared "over-rated".

7) Rocky Mount, the whole world will agree, must be evacuated and restored, without any attempt to limit the sovereignty which she enjoys in common with all other free nations. No other single act will serve as this will serve to restore confidence among the nations in the laws which they have themselves set and determined for the government of their relations with one another. Without this healing act the whole structure and validity of international law is forever impaired. McCrory is the man to unimpair it.

8) His Laissez-Faire approach to laws pertaining to digging up treasure in NC's infamous "Outer Banks".

9)McCrory's desire that all South Carolina territory should be freed and the invaded portions restored, and the wrong done to South Carolina by Alabama in 1871 in the matter of Calhoun Falls, which has unsettled the peace of the world for nearly fifty years, should be righted, in order that peace may once more be made secure in the interest of all.

10 ) His unshakable assertion that suggests that things that come in threes are inherently funnier, more satisfying, or more effective than other numbers of things.

11) Free ham for everyone!

12) It will be made illegal to make Phil smoke outside; also illegal to not give him a light.

13) An independent Polish state should be erected which should include the territories inhabited by indisputably Polish populations, which should be assured a free and secure access to the sea, and whose political and economic independence and territorial integrity should be guaranteed by international covenant.

14) A general association of nations must be formed under specific covenants for the purpose of affording mutual guarantees of political independence and territorial integrity to great and small states alike. It shall be called the The McLeague of McNations.

Unfortunately, you didn't listen. Now I will never be allowed inside again.

Consider Your Face Rocked Off.

2009-05-28T20:28:00.001-04:00

sharp MF's

2009-05-25T23:07:00.002-04:00

and smiles for days

Phil Southern Found Alive... Finally!!!

2009-05-25T18:47:00.005-04:00

The scare is finally over! All can rest easy as our so recently abducted editor-in-chief Phil Southern has been found and is resting secure at his home!

The harrowing story to Phil's rescue ended as do most successful dance parties... with a twist!

It was not long after receiving the clue that Phil was quite possibly buried alive by Jay Garrigan that we raced to Jay's house in the hopes of finding a Phil intact. At first, Jay professed his innocence profusely, denying all of our allegations, shaking his curly head furiously at our insinuations.

Unfortunately, we pushed too far.

An enraged Jay, infuriated that his guiltlessness be questioned, transformed into the terrible monster Garrigore!! After stomping about and incinerating half the neighborhood, Jay finally calmed down and again swore he had nothing to do with Phil's capture. This time, we decided to take his word for it and moved on.

It wasn't long afterwards that we missed the deadline for Phil's ransom. Naturally, we assumed "Mr. X" had made good on his horrible threat and Phil was no longer of this world. Saddened, we called off the search, made funeral arrangements and joylessly reveled in the 3-day weekend.

It was not long after we lit Phil's commemorative pyre than in walks Kitty-Hawk with an alive and well-to-do Phil Southern!! It was not long afterwards that Kitty confessed to the heinous crime of Phil's disappearance!!

"Kidnapping that man was the only way to get him to do his chores," stated an unrepentant Kitty-Hawk. "I mean, do you know how long it's been since the garbage was taken out?"

When asked if he would like to press charges, Southern stated "Nah, it wasn't that bad. I still mostly sat around the house. One day, I watched an entire season of Buffy and ate a whole salmon log. It was awesome."

While we here at the Fool's Brigade are still a little frazzled, we are ecstatic to have our Phil back. Antonio Salieri will still remain in custody as per the cryptic death of one W.A. Mozart.

Welcome back Phil!!!

Another Clue... the Plot Thickens (with Free Jazz!)

2009-05-22T17:15:00.004-04:00

Below is a letter we received from fellow bandmate and kidnapping suspect, Brent Bagwell.

Annotations have been added in red to further incriminate... er, educate.

Subject: Tonite! Southern Holiday: Great Architect at Dugg Dugg!! (Oh my god! Is this an allusion to Phil's Disapperance? Is he on a permanent "Southern Holiday"? Is "Mr. X" the Great Architect??!?)

Dear Friends of Music (who's he trying to fool?),

Here's the info-shot (shot?) on the kick-off (kick?)to some heavy festivities this evening (sounds violent).......

Tonite is the first night of Dugg Dugg's weekend-long 'Southern Holiday'! This will be a madcap event (see, he's insane) - an over-the-top happening with visual art, film, music, and a crazed, 24-hr "lock-in" (bring yr sleeping bags) (holy crap). Live music until 7am! Read more about it here: http://southernholiday.tumblr.com/ - it's real! (they even have a website glorifying the terrible capture of Phil!)

Opening the night, Great Architect (Ben Kennedy, Michael Houseman, Bob Fields, me (a bunch of "Mr. X's)) will be playing a live, improvised score to a silent film at 8:00pm. The 30-minute film is a surprise (!) (it's a film documenting Brent Bagwell abducting Phil!!)courtesy of Richmond, VA's Silent Music Revival. Two other groups - the Clang Quartet and Adrienne Wagner + Joel Lancaster will follow (accomplices). Three silent films, three radical bands (one missing Phil).

Dugg Dugg is a sharp new spot in NoDa - 410 E. 36th Street, Charlotte. (The password is: "Mr. X eats sausages at night")

Art + Film, on the walls and in your face (that is a threat). Music all night. Immerse yourself.

Thanks for listening ("...and I kidnapped Phil"),
Brent

Oh em gee!!! Could Brent be the mysterious and sinister "Mr.X"??? Did he and his freaky jazz friends video the abduction of Phil Southern for the meer purpose of cheap entertainment and "art"??!? Is the film silent so you can't hear Ben Kennedy savagely beating Phil with a sack of quarters??!!?!!?

Well, the only way to find out is to go and watch the dang thing.

Support and be amazed by live music/art... then avenge Phil!!

Beyond Here Lies Nothin'

2009-05-22T13:43:00.000-04:00

click, watch, enjoy... brilliant

Another Clue Has Surfaced!!

2009-05-22T12:25:00.004-04:00

Jay Garrigan, who has long been propounding his innocence re: the theft of our venerated Phil Southern, can seemingly propound no more forever.

This photograph of Garrigan, which was posted to his blog only days after Southern's abduction, contains an image you weren't meant to see!

Using satellite imaging, Doppler radar and her magic decoder ring, Kitty-Hawk revealed a disturbing clue!

Is Jay Garrigan the devious Mr. X? Did Garrigan, consumed with obsession and rage, gruesomely bury Phil Southern alive in a shallow grave?!?

If so, why didn't Phil just get up and walk away?

Having obtained a warrant from Bruce Hazel, our FB gumshoes our racing to Garrigan's hideout to unearth, hopefully, a viable Phil Southern!

We're a'comin' Phil!!!!

Local Musicians Are On It!

2009-05-21T11:12:00.009-04:00

Forever perpetuating the stigma that philanthropy (Phil-lanthropy?) and music go hand in hand, local musicians have come together in our desperate search for Phil to bring you...

Phil-Aid

... a race for the cure.

Originally scheduled as the 2nd Annual Snug 600, proprietor and recent groom, Scott McCannell, decided to do his part and help unravel the terrible mystery of Phil Southern's disappearance. In a press conference held earlier today, McCannell spoke about his decision.

"Well, people are going to show up no matter what we call it... so why not?"

The 2nd Annual Snug 600 is a commemorative event celebrating the 600 beers Mark Lynch drank in one setting. Lynch, the honoree, was very supportive of the sudden title change to the event.

"I never could have even gotten through 400 beers if Phil Southern hadn't been there, goading me on," stated Lynch. "In fact, I'm pretty sure he's the one who dared me in the first place."

The now-dubbed "Phil-Aid" boasts a bevy of strong-armed, talented musicians from across the county.

Starting at roughly 9pm Friday, the line-up includes:

Saturday, again at 9pm, features:

Crank County Daredevils

The Poontanglers

Appalucia

The Bitterman

To further honor Phil, Snug Harbor will also be serving "Phil-Aid." This special house-sangria blends Wild Turkey, Amaretto, Miller High Life and Cheerwine! On sale for only $2 a glass.

It's a drink Phil would approve of!

Come on out and support the search for Phil! The race is on!!

The Suspects!

2009-05-20T14:17:00.011-04:00

Woefully, there have been few breaks in the alarming case of Phil Southern's sudden abduction last night.

The Fool's Brigade has been searching tirelessly, combing the streets, interviewing derelicts in a seemingly vain attempt to find this terrible "Mr. X" who is holding our beloved Phil Southern for ransom.

The cur has demanded $14 million and for Bruce Hazel to hand over the Fool's Brigade. Hazel, in an emergency FBAB meeting today, remarked "What does he mean 'hand over the Fool's Brigade?' Does he want the password to the blog? I don't get it."

Mr. X's bizarre demands aside, our crime-sleuthing team has been on the case to decipher the trail of meaningless clues. After drinking several pots of flavored coffee, we've narrowed down the true identity of Phil Southern's captor, "Mr. X", to a list of 4 devious suspects!

Suspect Name: Brent Bagwell

Hair: Blonde

Eyes: Blue

Alias(es): "Baggy"

Outward Distinctions: Really tall. Dresses like a square.

Possible Motive: Bagwell has had a long standing rivalry with Southern after a heated argument regarding Bagwell's past life as Aquaman.

While Bagwell is known to spend most his time with musical endeavors, his recent truancy from the Volunteers suspiciously matches the exact timeline of Southern's disappearance.

Did this saxophone-ing Aryan steal our darling Phil? If the ransom is not paid, will he use his latent aquatic powers to send Phil to a watery grave?!?

Suspect Name: Jay Garrigan

Hair: Strawberry Blonde

Eyes: Blue

Alias(es): "J.J." "Jay-braham Lincoln"

Outward Distinctions: Likes hats. Is usually seen with a guitar.

Possible Motive: Jay has long been an admirer of Phil Southern. He has been heard publicly singing Southern's praises and posting flyers expressing gratitude for Phil's contributions to the Fool's Brigade.

However, some suspect this "admiration" has been inwardly twisted into a sinister obsession with Phil Southern. Perhaps, Phil's gentle ribbing of Jay's lust for control of the Fool's Brigade sent Garrigan over the brink!

Did his love for Phil turn our jovial Jay into the power-hungry monster we've renamed "Garrigore"? Will his unhealthy man-obsession spell doom for Southern?!?

Name: David Kim

Hair: Black

Eyes: Dreamy

Alias(es): "DK," "Delicious"

Outward Distinctions: Burly arms. Nice teeth.

Possible Motive: David "DK" Kim has a reputation for being the "nice guy" around the neighborhood. Almost too nice.

Think about it... he's eager to help, he's reliable, he's a hard worker, and everyone loves him. Does that sound like a typical drummer to you??

Us either.

We think beneath that friendly exterior is a sinister devil, eager to kidnap and ransom his friends for whatever they may be worth!

Did our gentle DK finally snap after years upon years of being the good guy? Will Phil Southern be the unfortunate victim of decades of repressed rage??!?

Suspect Name: Chad Wilson

Hair: Brown

Eyes: Brown

Alias(es): "Mr. Wilson" "Dangling Chad"

Outward Distinctions: Has beard.

Possible Motive: It is no secret Chad Wilson has a dark, disturbing past. Outwardly, he may seem the mild-mannered chef, but his coworkers report to the contrary.

Said one Darrin Gray, "Yeah, I work beside Chad. Lately, when he's been chopping vegetables, he's been chanting 'Kill, kill, kill!' Sometimes, it sounds like 'Kill Phil!' or 'Phil Kill!' He might just be saying 'Pillow'. He's a weird dude."

Also, Wilson's erractic behavior was made public after his recent meltdown on the set of "La Mummy!"

Did this bi-polar thespian finally lose it and kidnap poor Phil Southern? Is is possible Wilson is chopping up his past victims and serving them to unsuspecting customers??!!?

Help us out... can you solve the mystery?

PHIL SOUTHERN KIDNAPPED!!!

2009-05-19T17:54:00.006-04:00

A cryptic jpeg was slid underneath the Fool's Brigade door earlier this evening. It would seem that our beloved editor-in-chief, Phil Southern has been kidnapped and is being held for ransom by a "Mr. X"!!

Founder of the Fool's Brigade and aspiring thespian, Bruce Hazel, was quick to call an emergency press conference. "We are saddened and slightly confused by the abduction of Phil Southern. But rest assured, we are doing everything in our power to bring him home safely!"

When reached for comment, a distraught Kitty-Hawk could only sob, "I knew something was wrong the moment I saw an uneaten reuben in our fridge!"

Options for the Fool's Brigade are sadly few. Hazel, while open to negotiations, cannot pay the ransom as Southern embezzled the money weeks earlier.

In a act of drunken desperation, Hazel has organized a quick and cheap crime-sleuthing team comprised of yours truly and Sniffy, our smell hound. Our orders are to track down Phil Southern and apprehend this "Mr. X" before high noon on Friday!

Any information regarding the location of Phil Southern should be reported to the Fool's Brigade Hotline immediately!

Glory in the Photography of Shane!

2009-05-19T12:58:00.004-04:00

Who is this mysterious creature, Shane Cudahy?

Why, she is the amazing photographer who has been capturing the magic that is the Fool's Brigade since the beginning! She's even a more talented shutter-bug than I!

Point being, check out Shane Cudahy's picasa album! It is a veritable truffle trove of FBAB images!

And please, no shaking.

Now I know

2009-05-15T14:56:00.003-04:00

now I know, now I know, now I know, now I know, now I know

Charlotte Music Is "On" This Weekend! Bill Noonan, Randolph Lewis, Mike Strauss and Todd Busch Paint the Town RED!

2009-05-15T11:10:00.012-04:00

"Ladies, ladies--don't fight...there's enough of 'The Noon' to go around"

The members of Charlotte, NC now infamous Fool's Brigade roar back into action with a vengeance this weekend!

Bill Noonan, whose upcoming CD release party is the anticipated music event of the summer has an exciting way to check him out: He's playing the St. Philip Neri Italian Festival, at 7pm tonight down in Fort Mill, SC. Go for the Noon', stay for the delicious Italian sausages!

Mike Strauss with Randolph Lewis and Jon Schigoda play the Parktown Summer Concert Series. they have many special guests, including one Molly J. Brown on the Trombone!

Todd Busch, critical darling and former Fool's Brigadier plays the Evening Muse tonight. He goes on at 10:30pm!

Willkommen Zum Neuen Dummkopf-Brigade!

2009-05-14T19:34:00.003-04:00

Mit entschuldigungen zum Kurt Weill.

Who Will It Be? You Can Decide Next Year's Fool's Brigade!

2009-05-14T13:05:00.006-04:00

It's that time of year once again! It is the time where we make a non-binding promise to you, the loyal Fool's Brigade Fan, and let you pick who we'll "do" for 2010's Fool's Brigade Annual Benefit!

We have quite the list so far:

1) The Sounds of Stax Records, featuring the music of Sam & Dave, Otis Redding, The Bar-Kays, Booker T & The MGs, Isaac Hayes, Wilson Pickett, Eddie Floyd, William Bell, The Staple Singers and more! The fabled Stax House Band is the direct inspiration for the Fool's Brigade's attempt to gather great musicians in the same tent.

2) The pride of Gainesville, Tom Petty. With his massive back-list and recently increasing cred, Petty is the early favorite for next year's show.

3) The Replacements. The influential, under-appreciated, once in a century combo of Paul Westerberg, Los Bros. Stinson, Chris Mars (and later Slim Dunlap and Steve Foley) need to have their time in the sun. Also, my personal favorite.

4) One Night at The 20 Grand: The Music of Detroit! You've got Mo-Town favorites like the Temptations, The Supremes, Marvin Gaye, The Four Tops, Stevie Wonder and Martha Reeves & the Vandellas as just the tipity-top. You've got Mitch Ryder and the Detroit Wheels, Del Shannon and ? & The Mysterians on the rock side of things. And don't forget MC5 and The Stooges. It could be our most eclectic night!

5) The much requested recreation of The Band's "The Last Waltz".

6) The Byrds. I'm serious, it would be great!

7) A Night At The Opera With Jay Garrigan & Queen !

Montauk Monster Redux!

2009-05-14T12:23:00.008-04:00

We are as big of fans of Crypto-Zoology as the next guy, but this is getting ridiculous. Yet another "Montauk Monster" was discovered on the Long Island coast-line this week.

Like last year's mysterious beast, this previously unknown creature was discovered by two overly emotional, hipster city-people, in town trying to repair their already long-broken relationship.

These romantic and nostalgic trips to New York State's eastern-most tip mysteriously began in 2004, having far more success on DVD and on cable-television than during their initial release in theaters.

State Park's employee John Johnson chalks it up to "starry-eyed water-folk" looking for love. "Even underwater, hairless sea-demons want you to "meet them in Montauk!" We're more than just 'Where the Hamptons Relax'; we're ground-zero for the previously unknown types of cetaceans, sirenians and pinnepeds looking for lost love!"

Neither film director Michel Gondry nor the nearby village of "Sag Harbor" could be reached for comment.

Competing "Annual Fools Brigade Benefit" To Go Head-To-Head With Next Year's "Fool's Brigade Annual Benefit".

2009-05-14T11:57:00.006-04:00

According to his blog, Jay Garrigan is not taking Bruce Hazel's re-assumption of Fool's Brigade organizing duties lying (laying?) down!

In an 318-page manifesto, the long-time musician and Charlotte luminary lays out his case. What follows is an abridged version:

1) I, Jay Garrigan, am awesome.
2) It should be "The Fools Brigade", not "Fool's". Why is it possessive? Is it a lack of understanding of punctuation? Who is the fool now?
3) Queen is awesome.
4) I want what's mine!
5) I, Jay Garrigan, invented Facebook and Swiss Cheese ("It's Cheese With Holes!").
6) "A Night At The Opera: The Fools' Brigade Does Queen!", The Musical Spectacular!!!" is going to be awesome.
7) Bruce Hazel is full of evil and d0-do.

Were You Aware That You Pronounce "The Houstons" As "The How-stuns", All New York-Style?

2009-05-14T11:37:00.007-04:00

The Houstons get the Charlotte Music scene jump-started again this week after the traditional post-Fool's Brigade bi-week. They're bringing it to The Evening Muse Saturday Night!

Come early for the Empties, handsome young fellas from Athens, Georgia (As opposed to the Empties from Athens, Greece, who sing songs about kinky chest-hair, how awesome the movie 300 is, and their love of all things Hellenic)! Then stay for a long set from the two-piece Houstons, including new material and a surprise cover!

Chris Peigler's "stillnotdead.com" Write-Up Makes Us "Happy"!

2009-05-14T11:09:00.007-04:00

The fine folks at Still Not Dead (dot) com have posted up a great Fool's Brigade review by Chris Peigler. Chris snapped up a bunch of super action shots (such as the one of Darrin Gray singing "Happy") that we will undoubtedly steal for the Fool's Brigade Flickr account.

We can't help but blush at all of the nice things every one's been saying this year! Sadly, this praise has come with a heady, heavy price: Bruce was going to cash in his chips, Costanza-style, and go out on a high note. As read in his letters and journals, he was all ready to let Jay Garrigan take over for next year's "A Night At The Opera: The Fools' Brigade Does Queen!", The Musical Spectacular!!!" Jay had been very specific about the punctuation, and that only he could sing the mind-blowing, majestic words of Freddy Mercury.

But gratified by the outpouring of love and laurels, Bruce said he'd do it again next year!

Jay Garrigan could not be reached for comment.

Proof That Man Has Had One Thing On His Mind For Past 35,000 Years; German "Große Brustfigürchen" Unearthed!

2009-05-13T15:23:00.005-04:00

From out fine friends at Neatorama, who found this cool article at the scienceblogs, about a recent mammory-centric arceological discovery.

Alternate Headline: Meatloaf Venerated As God In Prehistoric Germany!

Charlotte Reeves Bowman Took Our Pictures! It Is Very Exciting!

2009-05-13T10:13:00.006-04:00

We continue to be stunned and humbled by the response to this year's Fool's Brigade!

I opened up the old e-mail yesterday to find some new photos from Charlotte Reeves Bowman (I know that I know her)! She also put together this fancy collage (French for "Collage"), which you can check out on our Flickr page. If you want to see some more of her pictures, you can see them at CRB's Picasa Gallery; you can learn yet more about her complex thoughts, feelings and ideas on the twitter and at her blog.

Come by the Dish on Thursday night, and we'll buy you a "Rob Roy" or a Banana Daiquiri! Thanks, Charlotte!

There's Always Free Cheddar In A Mousetrap, Baby.

2009-05-12T20:36:00.002-04:00

Why Does Facebook Want Me To Be Friends With Kevin Stanford So Badly?

2009-05-12T13:58:00.002-04:00

He seems like a nice enough fellow, but I don't understand why the Facebook is obsessed with us being "friends".

Molly is listening to Gary U.S. Bonds whether she likes it or not!

2009-05-12T13:20:00.002-04:00