Things that make me happy... Then She Fell

Things that make me happy... Then She Fell

Alice was beginning to get very tired of sitting by her sister on the bank, and having nothing to do: once or twice she had peeped into the book her sister was reading, but it had no pictures or conversations in it, 'and what is the use of a book,' thought Alice, 'without pictures or conversations?'

I went down the rabbit hole... and enjoyed every minute of it! Then She Fell is an interactive play that immerse you in the world (and mind) of Lewis Carrol's famous character Alice.

This play is currently running in a old hospital on a ordinary street in Williamsburg Brooklyn.  Tickets are available but very limited since only a few audience members are allowed in each show. I don't want to give away any more but this is not an ordinary theater show. You will explore things that in your own way at your own time, but the performances will be memorable. I never enjoyed a tea party so much!

Then She Fell is created by Zach Morris, Tom Pearson, Jennine Willett of Third Rail Projects. And runs shows throughout the week.

I really can't describe what this performance is about specifically but know that you will experience gripping performance set to music... you are a voyeur in someone else's world.  So many characters, so many scenes and no two audience members will see exactly the same show.

Pros
1. A fun evening in another world.
2. Perfect for Halloween, but much sexier.
3. Worth a trip to BK... and beware what you drink... but then again its included in the price.

Cons
1. Tickets are tough to get so book early while it still is showing near by.
2. You have to arrive on time... You don't want to miss a moment.

S.F. Guru

Things that make me happy... Tri State Tough Mudder 2013

Things that make me happy... Tri State Tough Mudder 2013

If you want to take on a physical challenge with a mental twist... Try a Tough Mudder near you.

What is Tough Mudder? This is an ultra hard core obstacle course built around a 12 mile run. Yea... It's its in the mud.  No joke. There is soooo much mud.

The Pledge.

1. I understand that Tough Mudder is not a race but a challenge.

2. I put teamwork and camaraderie above my course time.

3. I do not Whine -- Kids whine.

4. I help my fellow Mudders complete the course.

5. I overcome all fears.

Finishing feels so good.

So this guy... gets you pumped. And then it starts...

At first it just a run on a nice day...

And then the craziness begins... you carry things.

Water... And Fire.

Reaching new heights... 

A little team work... A little electrical shock to wake you up in case you need it.

And then after you think you done the worse... The Arctic Enema! Freezing water to shock the system.

This is a little crazy... but what's a little crazy among a few thousand friends!

Pros

1. The training before is really good for you. Upper body, core, running, and so much more.

2. Finishing the race... a good feeling.

3. Helping others finish the race... priceless.

Cons.

1. Mud, Mud, Mud.. Plan on 40 minute shower afterward. It goes everywhere.

2. Plan to give away your sneakers... They will be done. Can't get the mud out ever.

3. You can't finish this alone. Bring a friend or make one or two.

S.F. Guru

Things that make me happy... Cups by Anna Kendricks

Things that make me happy... Cups by Anna Kendricks

Anna Kendricks, Movie Star, Celebrity, Musician? Who knew?

All I can say that this is one of the coolest little tunes I heard this year. Video definitely worth checking out.

S.F. Guru

Things that make me happy... Gideon's Army (HBO Documentary)

Things that make me happy... Gideon's Army (HBO Documentary)

There are heroes among us. They don't wear capes or tights. The don't fly or turn invisible. They wake up every morning and battle injustice. And the reasons that they are heroes is that they serve the part of humanity they we often forget.  Nope... They are not the Avengers or the Xmen. They are the Defenders... the Public Defenders.

This HBO documentary airing in the summer of 2013 shows the trails and tribulations of people that work as public defenders. This wonderful film shows how hard it is to be trapped in the criminal court system and the hurdles and barriers that poor people face getting their fair say in court.  The public defenders are like teachers in many ways. Underpaid and under appreciated for the important work that perform on behalf of society.  And those that follow this calling... yes it is a calling....do it out of sense of justice and a passion to help defend the constitutional rights of the innocent and sometimes the guilty when they don't have the resources to defend themselves.

Pros
1. Good film that show real people doing real work for those in need. Heroes!
2. Based in Atlanta...
3. Young people making a difference... inspiring.

Cons
1. This is a complex issue. No easy answers.
2. It's about lawyers...  just saying.

S.F. Guru

Things that make me happy... 30 for 30: Broke

Things that make me happy... 30 for 30: Broke

This is a sports documentary that explores what happens to some athletes after the glory days are over an they find themselves in financial hardship.

Broke was featured at the 2012 Tribeca Film Festival and was directed by Billy Corben. They explore the road to riches that many athletes enjoy and for some... the steep decline to bankruptcy. This film covers in depth the dark side of success.

Players like Andre Rison, Bernie, Kosar, and Cliff Floyd are interviewed and talks about the pressures and mistakes they made during their playing years.  Watching this has a lesson for everyone.  You think that money will make you happy and solve all of your problems? Think again. Broke is a lesson for all of us... Its not about how much you have... Its about what you do with whatever you have.

Pros
1. This film balances empathy for the athletes and the hubris that get them into to trouble.
2. There are big name stars in this film... not just B rate players.

Cons
1. You may not feel sorry for these guys since they made mistakes along the way and they were super rich.



S.F. Guru

Things that make me happy... Steve Martin and The Steep Canyon Rangers

Things that make me happy... Steve Martin and The Steep Canyon Rangers

What do you know about bluegrass music? Yes... that music. With the bango and the fiddle.

If your answer is nothing or not enough... it's time you challenge yourself to step out of your musical comfort zone. The Steep Canyon Rangers is a North Carolina based bluegrass band that is currently on tour with Steve Martin and Edie Brickell. Of course Steve Martin is the headline and star of this tour, but he will be the first to admit that The Steep Canyon Rangers is fuel that makes this a truly entertaining show for die hard bluegrass fans or novices (like me) alike. An added treat is the talented and delightful Edie Brickell who happens to be touring with the group.

Edie Brickell and Steve Martin joined up to produce an 2013 album called "Love has Come for You" and they featured a few songs from that album.  Steve Martin's comic genius is featured throughout the performance and even makes an appearance in a song or two (Athiest Ain't Got No Songs.)

The core band features the mandolin, base, fiddler, and a pair of banjos (one expertly wielded by Steve Martin). They are joined by an electric guitar and a percussionist on many of the songs.  The Steep Canyon Rangers are excellent musicians that can play, sing, and plain ole jam with the best of them.  This is excellent evening of music filled with laughter, toe tapping beats, and great story telling by Brickell.

Take a leap and check out some bluegrass this summer at one of the tour stops. Or grab one of Steve Martin's, The Steep Cannon Rangers', or Edie Brickell's albums and grab a sweet tea, a rocking chair and enjoy the music.

One more thing... Steve Martin has and continues to trend at number one on Amazon Bluegrass Best Seller List. Who knew?

Athiest Ain't have No Songs

Pros
1. Steve Martin is funny! Period. But he also a great muscian. That two shows for one.
2. The Steep Canyon Rangers is the best (and only) bluegrass band I've every seen live.
3. Edie Brickel - Great storyteller, so adorable, and still is a talented singer.

Cons
1. Anyone new the bluegrass may have to get over themselves and open their minds to great music no matter the guise.
2. A lot of bluegrass is instrumental... but even without the lyrics each song tells a story.


Bluegrass? I say yes. Put it on the playlist. That's what I'm listening to this month.

S.F. Guru

Things that makes me happy... Sting

Things that make me happy... Sting

There are a handful of celebrities that are known by a single name.  Sting, the former member of the English rock band The Police, is one of the rare musical talents that earned his must deserved recognition.  The "Back to Bass" tour is one of the best tickets available this summer, as Sting tours with his five piece band and performs many of his classic hits.

Recently seen at the Borgata in Atlantic City, Gordon Matthew Thomas Sumner, aka Sting, is still rocking and commanding the stage with his signature bass.  At 61 years old he is as fit as a man 20 years his junior and still has that distinctive voice that resulted in millions of albums sold and 11 music awards.

Check out some of his classics and a few new songs along with a pretty could documentary on him.

Back to Bass tour

Sting Videos

Desert Rose

Fragile

Shape of my heart

Every Breath you take

A good Sting Documentary

Sting is still rocking at 60+ ... check him out and enjoy!!

S.F. Guru

Things that make me happy... Tribeca Film Festival

Things that make me happy... Tribeca Film Festival

So why a attend a film festival? First, you are a fan of movies and the making of them. Second, you like hanging out with cool people in one of NYC's most hip neighborhoods. Lastly, you want to expand your normal genres, subjects, and topics.

Every year The Tribeca Film Festival invades New York for ten days and host 100,000 movies goers in a variety of theaters in lower Manhattan.  You can get early selections of movies by purchasing a pass, one of many packages, or single tickets online. But they also reserve "RUSH" tickets for each show to ensure that everyone gets a chance to see the movie (as long as you are willing to arrive early and stand on line.)

You can see some of the films online on the Tribeca Film Festival website.
http://www.tribecafilm.com/festival


Audience Award - Bridegroom

Best Fim - The Rocket (Winner of Best Audience and Grand Jury for best Narrative)

The Kill Team - Best Documentary Feature

Farah goes Bang - Funny movie about 3 girls on a campaign road trip

Mobius - Steamy Globe hopping spy thriller (English, French, and Russian)

The English Teacher (quirky comedy... Julianne Moore stars)

Pros
1. Great variety of films with pretty good quality
2. If you like be surrounded by movie fans.
3. Rush tickets available if you show up early and wait in line.
4. Q&A with stars and film makers


Cons
1. Tough to get tickets after online sales are over.
2. Packed theaters... so get there early for good seating


SF Guru

Things that make me happy... The Heist by Macklemore & Ryan Lewis

Things that make me happy... The Heist by Macklemore & Ryan Lewis

"Just when you think you know hip hop it surprises you and reminds you why you fell in love with it in the first place." - Sydney Shaw, Brown Sugar

Nuff said!!

Macklemore & Ryan Lewis Album the Heist was released in August 2012 as a relative unknown but has built momentum month after month ever since. After appearances on Saturday Night Live, a concert tour, and much word a mouth this album is getting lots of recognition.

The Heist is a throwback hip hop album with strong lyrically content. Macklemore flow is so smooth and enjoyable that you might miss the message in many of his song. Some of his songs addresses gay rights, substance abuse, and trying to make it the music industry. But what makes this album stand out is the music. Although the album is straight hip hop he infuses R&B, country, and rock. You can enjoy playing the entire album through and get a different sound each track.

Another great characteristic of the album is the number of collaborations used throughout the album. Each add something different to the Album.

Album Song list

Ten Thousand Hours - Way to introduce "The Heist"
Can't Hold Us - Album's first big hit. Catchy tune and getting lots of airplay. Might be one of the songs of the summer.
Thrift Shop - The next hit. Fun another great hook... Best line of year "This is F@cking Awesome"
Thin Line -
Same Love - Political commentary at its best... on a great dope melody.
Make The Money- Soooo many ill rhymes! "Uncle Sam is
Neon Cathedral - Slowdown with the R&B feel but don't expect a let up on the verses.
BomBom - Why not a instrumental track... and its still hip hop. Genius.
White Walls - This could be remix potential dance hit.
Jimmy lovine - Another future hit... "...rather be a starving artist than succeed at getting f@cked!"
Wings - Another nice track. Good spin class "climb track"
A Wake - An indy feel. Another future hit.
Gold - A bit weak but might still be a pop hit. High school kids might love this one.
Starting Over - One of my favorites on the album. Kinda like therapy... Enimen style.
Cowboy Boots - Really?!? And its fun a song. Too funny!
Castle - Ok track
My Oh My - Nice tribute track...
Victory Lap - Shout out to Seattle. Every town needs an anthem.

Thrift Shop

Same Love

Can't Hold Us

My Oh My

NPR Tiny Desk Music Series (soo good) - Same Love and others...

Macklemore & Ryan Lewis on SNL - Thrift Shop

On Letterman - Can't Hold Us

Pros
1. One of the best hip hop albums in years.
2. Macklemore flow is wicked and he's got something to say...
3. The music on this album can keep you listening for hours. This might be a classic in the making.

Cons
1. There are only 18 tracks on the deluxe edition. And we want more.

Fun album for the summer...

SF Guru

Things that make me happy... 2013 NCAA Final Four @ Atlanta

Things that make me happy... 2013 NCAA Final Four @ Atlanta

The 2013 NCAA Mens Final Four Basketball game was held in the Atlanta Georgia Dome this year. The four teams playing for the championship were Wichita State Shockers, Michigan Wolverines, Syracuse Orangeman, and Louisville Cardinals.

In the final game the Cardinal defeated the Wolverines 82-76 to finish a great weekend of basketball. Although the headlines were the final four games, there were so many things going on over the four day weekend it felt like the Olympics.

First there was Brackettown at the Georgia World Congress Center which featured sports related activities for all ages including dribbling and shooting camps, sponsors, music, and giveaways. 

After you explore all that bracket town has to offer, there are the three days of concerts in Olympic Park in downtown Atlanta.  The Big Dance started on Friday night and included headliner Zac Brown Band. Saturday lineup featured Macklemore & Ryan Lewis, Ludacris, and Flo Rider and Muse.  The weekend series ended on Sunday evening with Grace Potter & the Nocturnals, Sting and Dave Matthews Band.  Over 150,000 people attended the concerts over the weekend bring downtown ATL crowds that might rival the 2006 Olympics. 

Sting - Roxanne

Sting - Message in a Bottle

Ludacris & Macklemore

And yes... The Harlem Shake invades ATL!!

Dave Matthews Band

Pros
1. You don't need a ticket to the Final Four to enjoy most of the activities during the weekend. The concerts, practices, and many other events were free. This year the Div II and III final games were held in Phillips Arena and were also free to the public.
2. Great weekend for sports fans in general and reconnecting with Alumni even if your team doesn't make it to the final four.
3. Even with the price of the tickets. You get three games and whole lot more for the money. A great deal.

Cons
1. Expect large crowds but the energy is great.
2. Plan early of lodging and tickets. Although you can get tickets while your there from secondary market the prices are higher of course.

The 2014 NCAA final four is in Austin next year. You have until May 31st to sign up for the lottery for tickets. They will charge your card for the tickets when you apply and refund you if you don't get slot.

SF Guru

Things that makes me happy... Club Harlem

Things that makes me happy... Club Harlem @ the Apollo Theater


Club Harlem is a variety show type performance set at the Apollo theater directed by Maurice Hines, older brother of the late Gregory Hines. The show recreates the atmosphere of 1930s and 40s Harlem with nightclub styled seating on the lower level of the theater (yes they removed the normal chairs) an servers bring food and drink to the tables.  The audience dressed up in the attire of the day while being entertained by a 16 piece Jazz orchestra led musical director David Berger and the conductor Daryl Waters,

The show feature jazz singers, dancers and the was led by the multi-talented Maurice Hines. At over 70 years of age, Hines still command the stage with his comedy, singing, and yes dancing. Just like his contemporary, Sammie Davis Jr., this triple threat performance was well worth the money.

Maurice Hines

Dee Dee Bridgewater

Pros
1. A fun night out experiencing what life was like in 1930s Harlem
2. Great performers including singing, dance, and comedy
3. Maurice Hines at 70+ is an inspiration... and still can entertain an audience

Cons.
1. Apollo wasn't meant for service so the drinks and food was a bit slow
2. The show was a limited run at the Apollo but they may feature at a theater near you in the future.



S.F. Guru