Red, White and Brass
I was first introduced to Michael Leckrone in the sterile setting of the classroom. As simply a number in his behemoth of a class this semester, I soon found the rumors to be true — Lakrone, like the great performers he lectures on, has a gift for the stage. In class, lecturing without notes, the 32-year UW vet told story after story about “his” and soon the classes’ favorites of the stage. From Louis to Bix to Crosby, the enigmatic skeleton of a man amazed me. And then I attended his concert. Walking into the Kohl Center on the opening night of “Red, White and Brass,” the atmosphere was more “go big red” than “go big brass.” But as I soon would learn, reverence for the home team is what you get when attending a Leckrone-led performance. Items to note: Junior Dan Henkel, masterfully keying the intricate “Rhapsody in Blue,” while backed by the band, Maynard Ferguson’s lead trumpeter Stan Mark offering a taste of history, while the band itself dished out set after set of rock and spirituals. “Silly songs” and all those pep songs that ring clear well after the fifth quarter. And then there’s Leckrone, the performer. Like Al Jolson, the flashy-dressed conductor let it all out as he danced, sang and even swung from the rafters during the four-hour performance. Watching the him in action makes me realize just how lucky we are to have this guy on staff.
–MR
Sheryl Crowe’s “Soak Up the Sun”
I’m a full supporter of forgoing any music integrity in favor of cashing in on the time of year and spreading a little groovy feel-goodness. Although a righteous female rocker in her own right, Crowe’s latest single taps into that feeling so hard to ignore these days. A sure-fire anthem of the upcoming summer (which seems to be nearer everyday) “Soak Up the Sun” will be blasted from apartment windows, out of convertible stereos, on the deck of pontoons and the soundtrack of drinking at the Terrace. Sure the social significance is lacking, and come September we’ll be sick of its radio and commercial play, but it’s a little classier than the “Lady Marmalade-Bootylicious-Thong Songs” from the summer of yore. And every summer needs a little class ? just not the kind you get credit for.
–AR
Snapple Very Cherry Iced Tea
Remember the Snapple lady? She sat behind the desk and exuded the jolliness Snapple is known for. I miss her, and I toast every bottle of their latest brewed masterpiece to her spirit. The masterminds behind such romantic blends of Kiwi Strawberry, Mango Madness and, U2’s drummer Larry Mullen, Jr. (and therefore my personal) favorite Peach Iced Tea are proud to present Very Cherry Iced tea. This refreshing, fruity and caffeinated beverage is a fine substitute for coffee on these warm, sunny days. George Washington wouldn’t have stopped at just one cherry tree — this tasty brew would have our national figure chopping down the entire orchard. Cheers!
–AR
Themed parties
What do you get when you mix gold and diamonds with the pirate? A weekend of themed soirees. Incognito. The best way to get yer drink on.
–MR
Blog of the week
“As soon as Edan sends me his track back, we’ll be up to 24 or 25 for the album. I’m still fine tuning some things and like Pizza Hut “I’m “Makin’ it great” (Even though they line the pans with leftover chicken grease from their sister store KFC). Speaking of which, why don’t they call it Kentucky Fried Chicken anymore? Is it too hard to remember, or is it like the Urban Legend suggests that they use mutated chickens that have 3 legs (for more chicken of course), and the F.D.A. won’t allow them to call themselves Kentucky Fried Chicken? How do I think about this and still crave their Honey BBQ wings?”
[http://www.countbassd.com/log.html]