M83 Packs a Wallop

Sometimes even security guards need a good bitch slap, and who better to give them one than lead singer Anthony Gonzalez of M83.

During a July 18 show in Columbus, Ohio, the band invited fans up on stage to dance during the close of the concert. Fans came up to dance, and to begin with, the security guard gently removed some of the dancers from the stage. M83 told fans to come back on stage, thus ensued the unfriendly removing of fans from the stage by one of the security officers. Gonzalez saw this going on, yelled “Fuck you!” and not only slapped, but kicked one of the event officials.

Don’t believe me? Well, here’s the video that shows it all.

The St. Louis Riverfront Times interviewed Gonzalez after the show at Ohio State University’s Wexner Center for the Art’s and the front man explained the reason for his actions:

"The security guard started to act violent with the kids, and they were just kids. So I really didn't like that, and that's the reason why I was a bit violent as well."

Gonzalez was not arrested or detained for the incident. But, man, the only thing missing was the baby powder . . . SMACK!

- Jessica Cole

Currently Listening to: "Otherside of the Game" by Erykah Badu from the album Baduizm

This content is solely the property of The Athens Blur Magazine and may not be re-produced without expressed written consent. The Athens Blur Magazine is an 8 issue/year music & variety publication proud to be based in the Classic City of Athens, Ga. For more information, please contact editorial@athensblur.com

VH1's Divas Live Concert Series Returns

After a four-year hiatus from the Divas Live Concert series, VH1 is redoing the show with some new artists such as British vocalists Adele and Leona Lewis, Kelly Clarkson and teen pop star Miley Cyrus. Last series, the divas were Celine Dion, Whitney Houston and Mariah Carey.

VHI published a statement, “For the first time ever, these leading ladies at the top of their musical game will perform together live. Continuing in true Divas tradition, the evening will feature a night of unforgettable performances from various performers, presenters and special guests. Additional performers and presenters will be announced in the coming weeks."

Lee Rolontz, Original Music Production and Development for VH1, stated, “An amazingly talented group of young women have successfully launched themselves into the global music scene since our last VH1 Divas show. We’re very excited to have so many of them join us at this year’s momentous event. Adele, Kelly, Leona and Miley have all captured the world’s attention with their talent and have earned their designation as VH1 Divas this year. Don’t let some of their young age’s fool you – these women are among the best entertainers in the world and will continue to thrill music fans for a long time to come.”

The show will air on Thursday, September 17 at 9/8c.

-Sarah Saltzman

Currently listening to: “Lonely People” by Bobby Ray

This content is solely the property of The Athens Blur Magazine and may not be re-produced without expressed written consent. The Athens Blur Magazine is an 8 issue/year music & variety publication proud to be based in the Classic City of Athens, Ga. For more information, please contact editorial@athensblur.com

New Coldplay Video

Coldplay's calming melodies in "Strawberry Swing" are complimented by the chalk-drawn video that looks like someone is flipping through the pages of a children's story book. They never fail to amaze me.



-Sarah Saltzman

Currently listening to: "The Strawberry Swing" by Coldplay

This content is solely the property of The Athens Blur Magazine and may not be re-produced without expressed written consent. The Athens Blur Magazine is an 8 issue/year music & variety publication proud to be based in the Classic City of Athens, Ga. For more information, please contact editorial@athensblur.com

Artist of the Day: Joe Alterman

Pianist Joe Alterman has been interested in music from an early age. Currently, Alterman studies Jazz Piano and Psychology at New York University and has had the opportunity to learn/play with Don Friedman, Brian Lynch, Dave Pietro, Kenny Werner, Martin Wind, Mike Richmond and more. During his high school years he studied with Emory University's Director of Jazz Studies Gary Motley. He has played at the Blue Note Jazz Club in New York City, concert halls, clubs and even fraternity parties. His singles are definitely something to check out, oh and guess what…he’s only 20 years old.

Who’s Who: Joe Alterman (piano)
Label: unsigned
Latest release: singles available on his website
On the Web: http://www.myspace.com/joealterman1

-Sarah Saltzman

Currently listening to: "Kelly's Blues" by Joe Alterman

This content is solely the property of The Athens Blur Magazine and may not be re-produced without expressed written consent. The Athens Blur Magazine is an 8 issue/year music & variety publication proud to be based in the Classic City of Athens, Ga. For more information, please contact editorial@athensblur.com

"Make Her Say" video featuring Kanye and Common

Hip-Hop phenomenon Kid Cudi put together a great remix of Lady Gaga's hit "Poke Her Face" featuring Common and Kanye West. It's surprising how little Gaga says in the song and still remains the dominant voice throughout the track.

Video below.

KiD CuDi - Make Her Say (feat. Kanye West & Common) - Watch more Hiphop Videos at Vodpod.

-Sarah Saltzman

Currently listening to: "Hide and Seek" by Imogen Heap

BLUR news: Editor-in-Chief Nicole Black stepping down, effective immediately

Editor-in-Chief Nicole Black has resigned from her position at Athens Blur Magazine, effectively immediately. Please see below for a letter from Nicole, explaining what was surely a difficult decision.

Dear Readers,

Change can be a good thing. Although memories of the past are irreplaceable, perhaps the restoration of Georgia Theatre will result in a more superior music venue. And speaking of change, after much deliberation, I will be resigning my position as Editor-in-Chief here at Blur magazine. I have taken on great responsibility with another business venture that limits my time to contribute further to this magazine. I have learned several invaluable lessons during this journey that I will carry with me on my next endeavor. I will always support and stand by this magazine I co-created over a year ago. The magazine is in excellent hands and will continue to flourish and improve over the course of time. Thank you, Athens musicians and fans of music, for allowing this magazine to be a part of this incredible music scene we have here. Feel free to stop by anytime to say hi to me at the Alibi.

As always, keep rockin’.

Nicole

Issue 9 online now, Terrapin release party this Friday!

Issue 9 is now available online, featuring PASSION PIT! Check it out:

http://www.scribd.com/doc/17505282/The-Athens-Blur-Magazine-Issue-9

Also, be sure you come out to Terrapin Brewery in Athens this Friday (July 24th) to get your hands on the physical copy! Great beer, raffle prizes and music from Futurebirds!

Adam Yauch of the Beastie Boys Diagnosed with Cancer

Adam Yauch, a.k.a. MCA, of the Beastie Boys has announced he has a cancerous tumor in his parotid (salivary) gland.

The news was broadcast over an online video that includes fellow Beastie Boys member Adam ‘Ad-Rock’ Horowitz.

In the video Yauch explained that the cancer was found early and the problem is localized so his condition is “treatable” and he will be undergoing surgery sometime during the week of July 27 as well as radiation treatments.

"About two months ago I started feeling a lump in my throat, like you feel if you have swollen glands or if you have a cold. I didn’t think it was anything,” Yauch explains. “Then when we were in Europe recently doing promotion I started to think I should talk to my doctor. So I called my doctor when I got back, about two weeks ago.”

"He sent a specialist, they did tests and I have a form of cancer in a gland that's over here (points to his left cheek). It's in a gland called the preaortic gland and it's also in the lymph node in that area.”

He went on to say fortunately the cancer does not affect his voice.

As for the Beastie Boys upcoming album Hot Sauce Committee Part 1 which was scheduled to be released on September 15, has been delayed until further notice. Upcoming live shows have also been cancelled.

"I just need to take a little time to get this in check, and then we'll release the record and play some shows,” Yauch said. “It's a pain in the neck (sorry had to say it) because i was really looking forward to playing these shows, but the doctors have made it clear that this is not the kind of thing that can be put aside to deal with later."

The video of the boys is posted below:

- Jessica Cole

Currently Listening to: “Cello Song” by Nick Drake from the album Five Leaves Left

This content is solely the property of The Athens Blur Magazine and may not be re-produced without expressed written consent. The Athens Blur Magazine is an 8 issue/year music & variety publication proud to be based in the Classic City of Athens, Ga. For more information, please contact editorial@athensblur.com

Paula Abdul might not be returning to Idol

American Idol fans might be losing one of their own idols this coming season. Paula Abdul, the always-entertaining judge of American Idol, has yet to negotiate a contract with manager David Sonenberg for this coming season. “Very sadly, it does not appear that she’s going to be back on Idol,” Sonenberg said. Abdul has been with the show since Season One, but has been particularly slow in making any move to remain on the show. “I find it under these circumstances particularly unusual; I think unnecessarily hurtful,” Sonenberg said. “I find it kind of unconscionable and certainly rude and disrespectful that they haven’t stepped up and said what they want to do.”

Host Ryan Seacrest has already re-signed a deal with Idol, and judge Simon Cowell appears to be in the middle of negotiating his lucrative contract. Along with Abdul, new judge Kara DioGuardi has yet to sign a contract, despite the fact that Season Nine auditions have already begun.

A Twitter topic, #Keep Paula, has come out with thousands of Tweets supporting Abdul. In response, she Tweeted on her own Twitter, “If it weren’t for you, this specific time and situation would feel a whole lot worse! I’m actually moved 2 tears upon reading the enormous amount of tweets showing me your kindness, love,& undying support. God bless all of you!”

American Idol's Season Nine may be a little bit easier to follow without Paula's stream of consciousness interjecting, but it will definitely be a lot less entertaining.

-Laurie Moot

Currently listening to "Dance Like There's No Tomorrow," by Paula Abdul (that's a lie)

This content is solely the property of The Athens Blur Magazine and may not be re-produced without expressed written consent. The Athens Blur Magazine is an 8 issue/year music & variety publication proud to be based in the Classic City of Athens,Ga. For more information, please contact editorial@athensblur.com

Live Show Review: Gurtenfestival, July 19, Bern, Switzerland

Kings of Leon & Travis

 While most of you were just rolling out of bed yesterday from another wild night in the Classic City, thousands of heady Europeans across the pond in Switzerland were already rocking out to bands like Kings of Leon, Travis, and several Swiss bands I can’t even begin to pronounce. Though both KOL and Travis reign from elsewhere, the fans at Gurtenfestival in Bern, Switzerland welcomed the bands as their own, and it was obvious the boys were extremely humbled.

 At 4:55p.m., arriving a bit late, Scottish rock band Travis, were welcomed by an enormous crowd of surprisingly sober 20-somethings. A mixture of Coldplay and Keane, Travis stunned the audience with its incredibly energetic show. Lead vocalist, Fran Healy, made sure the crowd was engaged with the band throughout the entire show. He even made his way into the audience, being lifted up into the crowd by the exciting audience. Though fans sang along to nearly every song, you could tell everyone was waiting for their biggest hit, “Why Does It Always Rain On Me.” It was the final song and the crowd went nuts, spraying water bottles and moshing. You could barely hear Healy’s voice over the thousands of fans who dominated the song. Healy told the crowd it was his favorite festival they had ever done, and though he may say that at every show, it sure felt like he meant it.

 About an hour after Travis finished their set, Kings of Leon graced the stage on Gurten Mountain and were completely blown away by the intensity from their Swiss fans. The Nashville boys belted out old and new songs alike, with the audience acting as if every song was their favorite. Lead singer Caleb Followill admitted that he couldn’t believe how much the audience’s interest in the band had skyrocketed, since its last performance in Switzerland just one year ago. Starting with “Be Somebody” and ending with their latest big hit, “Use Somebody,” it was an amazing show.

 The bands’ equal admiration for one another was impossible to ignore. Kings admitted to Travis being a huge influence on their music while Travis dedicated a song in its set to KOL. Though both bands did an excellent job performing for fans that didn’t speak their language, Travis put on a much more energetic show. But then again, they’ve been an active band much longer than Kings and have more experience playing for and engaging with foreign audiences. It was my first festival abroad and what I will say is this. Music is music. No matter the language or lyrical content. More than half of the screaming fans had no clue what the lyrics meant in German, but they could still sing every single word.

 -Kristen Lee

Currently listening to "Why Does It Always Rain On Me" by Travis

This content is solely the property of The Athens Blur Magazine and may not be re-produced without expressed written consent. The Athens Blur Magazine is an 8 issue/year music & variety publication proud to be based in the Classic City of Athens,Ga. For more information, please contact editorial@athensblur.com

Live Show Review: The Offspring, 7/16, St. Augustine Amphitheatre

When I was watching The Offspring’s “Pretty Fly (For A White Guy)” on TRL, sandwiched in between Nsync and Eminem, I had no idea I would someday see them in real life (I also was unaware there would come a time when I no longer craved Mountain Dew on a daily basis). Sometimes opportunities present themselves, and you find yourself singing “He asked for a 13 but they drew a 31” at the top of your lungs. And hey, The Offspring taught me how to count to six in Spanish (damn that extra “cinco” though). I figure I owed them. The crowd was prime material for people-watching: mohawks, a lot of black, a peppering of shirtless tools (but we were in Florida, so you can’t blame that on the band), a few silver not-so foxy foxes, and several women who should have re-thought the back-less tank top. But really, I probably looked like I belonged at a Regina Spektor concert, so I’m not here to judge. Sum-41 opened the show, and they had a surprisingly hard-core fan base. And, for what it was, it didn’t suck. They played “that song” (It’s called “Fat Lip”) and “that other song” (it’s called "In Too Deep"). Then The Offspring took the stage, and it was a blast. They are a little past their prime, but they sounded solid. You know those bands that have a catalog of hits but insist on playing just their new stuff? The Offspring isn’t one of those. They blew through “The Kids Aren’t Alright,” “Why Don’t You Get a Job?” “I Can’t Get My Head (Around You),” etc. They did play some new songs that, to be honest, I was completely unfamiliar with, but because they’ve been around long enough to know everyone’s favorite, they closed with “Self Esteem.” There’s something really satisfying about singing “I’m just a sucker with no self-esteem” in unison with thousands of people. You have to experience it to really understand. I’m not saying your life isn’t complete until you see The Offspring, but for a Friday night in Florida in July, it hit the spot.

-Julie McCollum

Listening to: “Use Me” by Pepper

This content is solely the property of The Athens Blur Magazine and may not be re-produced without expressed written consent. The Athens Blur Magazine is an 8 issue/year music & variety publication proud to be based in the Classic City of Athens, Ga. For more information, please contact editorial@athensblur.com

Live Show Review: The Dead Weather 7/16, Terminal 5, New York City

I will start by laying down some simple facts that we all know. First, Jack White is an f’ing genius when it comes to anything music. He can shred the guitar; rip the drums and even position himself in the marketplace with his new record store, Third Man, in Nashville. Second, both The White Stripes and The Raconteurs have proven to be legitimate and successful bands, both of which incorporate White’s skill into them. Third, The Dead Weather is White’s best thus far. 

Last night at Terminal 5 in New York City (my first visit to the city) witnesses just how ferocious and dominant The Weather really is. With a lineup that includes “Little” Jack Lawrence, the bassist of the Raconteurs, former Raconteurs guitarist (and touring keyboardist with Queen of the Stone Age) Dean Fertita and singer Alison Mosshart of the Kills, there is a new sound out there and it’s kicking arse at a venue near you. It’s not hard to describe the DW’s music, but it is hard to captivate all of the energy in writing. Imagine Rage Against the Machine meets The Pixies with some Nashville twang mixed in. 

It’s a confidant, forceful and a defensive collaboration of musicians that really believe in what they are doing. Their new album Horehound is a 5-star too, but that album review will come at a future date. Be sure to check back for video’s from last night’s show at Terminal 5 (I can’t load anything from my camera since I don’t have the USB cord... patience is a virtue). Also, be sure to check back for the Futurebirds review from Piano tonight in Manhattan. Peace.

 

-Will Hackett

Currently listening to “Calm Like a Bomb” by Rage Against The Machine

Artist(s) of the Day: Artists of the 500 Days of Summer Original Soundtrack

The new film, 500 Days of Summer, starring Zooey Deschanel and Joseph Gordon-Levitt opened today, and Rottentomatoes.com gave the film a 90 percent approval rating (Certified Fresh!), with such positive reviews I felt it necessary to profile an album that should receive just as much praise as the movie itself.

When looking at the track-list, it’s hard not to think back to 2004 when the “it” movie was Garden State and its soundtrack was critically acclaimed. The two albums even feature one of the same artists: Simon and Garfunkel. This time around the S & G song featured is “Bookends,” a short, melancholy tune that reminisces about a past love. And of course, these are the types of songs that make-up the 500 Days Soundtrack, after all, the film is about the triumphs and heartbreaks of love and relationships.

Before you start thinking, “Oh no. Here’s just another sad, emo album that wines on about love lost,” take a look at some of the other great additions to the album:

You got the Hall & Oates classic “You Make My Dreams Come True.” There is the toe-tapping tune “Bad Kids” by Georgia’s own Black Lips. And even a fun cover of the Pixies “Here Comes Your Man” by Meaghan Smith.
These light-hearted songs mixed with the moody laments create a perfect balance for a film based on the trials of love. It’s kind of perfect really, since this is the kind of soundtrack any body in a relationship could use at any high or low point with their significant other.

If anyone has seen the trailer for 500 Days of Summer, you know the album wouldn’t be complete without The Smiths. In one scene of the movie, you see Gordon-Levitt’s character listening to the Smiths on an elevator and Deschanel’s character compliments him on his good taste in music. From what I’ve taken from that scene, that is the moment Gordon-Levitt’s character falls head over heels, but can you blame him? According to Chuck Klosterman, it’s rare to find a young Smith’s fan who is not A. Latino or B. Emo/Goth.

The song heard on the trailer was “There Is A Light That Never Goes Out” and coincidentally (or not), that is the track featured on the soundtrack. As I blogged earlier in the month, She & Him also contribute to the album with a cover of The Smith’s “Please, Please, Please Let Me Get What I Want.”

The 500 Days of Summer Soundtrack will get you crying, laughing but most of all it is the relationship therapy any couple could use. Check out the album, and once you’ve finished drinking butterbeer with your fantasy-loving muggles---hop on over to the next screen and check out one of the most refreshing films of the year: 500 Days of Summer.

- Jessica Cole

Currently Listening to: “There Goes the Fear” by Doves from the album 500 Days of Summer Original Soundtrack

This content is solely the property of The Athens Blur Magazine and may not be re-produced without expressed written consent. The Athens Blur Magazine is an 8 issue/year music & variety publication proud to be based in the Classic City of Athens, Ga. For more information, please contact editorial@athensblur.com

Demi Lovato: Sixteen and On the Charts

Teenybopper Demi Lovato appears to be growing up musically, or so critics say. Less than a year ago, Lovato released her album Don’t Forget, co-written by the Jonas Brothers, and continued recording. Her new single “Here We Go Again” is now number 51 on the Billboard Hot 100 and Number seven on the iTunes chart and has a new sound because Lovato looked to artists such as John Mayer, William Bechett and Jon McLaughlin for inspiration. I really don’t see any of those inspirations in her new single but check it out for yourself below.



-Sarah Saltzman
Currently listening to: "Albuquerque" by Weird Al Yankovich

Food Bank of Northeast Georgia Benefit Tonight!

Music feeds the soul and food nourishes the body, so why not satiate both of those needs by coming to the 40 Watt Club tonight for the Food Bank of Northeast Georgia benefit!

Bands such as Radiolucent, The Deep Vibration, Lera Lynn of Birds & Wire and Eric Wilson & Empty Hearts will be performing for the cause. This is a great opportunity to see an incredible show and to do your part in ending hunger!

Donating is as easy as looking through your kitchen cabinet or heading to the grocery store and picking up items like: tuna, canned meat, peanut butter, stews, soups, canned fruits and veggies, cereal, grits and oatmeal.
These are only suggestions and any amount of food is never too little.

Along with your donations, attendees of tonight’s show can get up to $3 off of their $8 ticket admission. Doors open at 9 p.m.

If you do not plan to attend the show, you can still donate by dropping off your food stuffs in the bins set up outside of the 40 Watt Club’s doors.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab some grub and head downtown tonight to help those in need!

- Jessica Cole

Currently Listening to: “Blowin’ in the Wind” by Bob Dylan from the album The Freewheelin’ Bob Dylan

This content is solely the property of The Athens Blur Magazine and may not be re-produced without expressed written consent. The Athens Blur Magazine is an 8 issue/year music & variety publication proud to be based in the Classic City of Athens, Ga. For more information, please contact editorial@athensblur.com

Madonna's Stage Kills One and Seriously Injures Six

Today in Marseille, France one person was killed and six others were seriously injured while building a stage for Madonna’s Sticky and Sweet tour. According to reports, the 60,000 capacity performing center collapsed while under construction and no cause for the accident has been made clear. The concert has been cancelled in wake of the tragedy caused by the stage Madonna has been using across the country that includes a giant revolving platform with an oversize silver and black throne, a DJ deck, a JumboTron screen on which Britney Spears makes her nightly virtual cameo and multi-level risers on which Madonna jumps rope and spars in a mini boxing ring, according to MTV. Madonna issued a statement to the press:

"I am devastated to have just received this tragic news. My prayers go out to those who were injured and their families along with my deepest sympathy to all those affected by this heartbreaking news."


-Sarah Saltzman

Currently listening to: “A Slippery Slope” by The Delfields


This content is solely the property of The Athens Blur Magazine and may not be re-produced without expressed written consent. The Athens Blur Magazine is an 8 issue/year music & variety publication proud to be based in the Classic City of Athens, Ga. For more information, please contact editorial@athensblur.com

"Just Wright"

Due out 2010, Queen Latifah will star in a Cinderellaesque movie entitled "Just Wright." Not only does Latifah have a lot going for her based on her success as a rapper, model and actress but her costars are all well-known singers-turned-actors such as Common, Eve, Leona Lewis, Christina Aguilera, Wyclef Jean and will.i.am. The romantic comedy is a story about a female physical therapist falling in love with a basketball player while helping him recover from an injury.

Common wrote on his blog, “I’m very excited and feel super blessed to be able to be in my first leading role in a movie with Latifah and Paula Patton directed my Sanaa Hamri called Just Wright. I’ll get to play an NBA star. I get to live out my dreams in this movie. I can’t wait to hoop. I’ll keep ya’ll in tune with what’s going on."

The film was originally set up by Disney six years ago, but since then Fox Searchlight has picked the film up just as they did with box office success “Slumdog Millionaire.”

-Sarah Saltzman

Currently listening to: “Wake up” by Arcade 5

This content is solely the property of The Athens Blur Magazine and may not be re-produced without expressed written consent. The Athens Blur Magazine is an 8 issue/year music & variety publication proud to be based in the Classic City of Athens, Ga. For more information, please contact editorial@athensblur.com

Beatles tease Revolver doc on website

By now, if you’re a Beatles fan you’ve heard about the reissue of all their studio albums come September. Each album will be digitally remastered and will feature original track listings and artwork. The albums will also include expanded booklets that will have both original and newly written photos and liner notes. And, for a limited time, each of the Beatles’ proper albums will come embedded with a brief documentary featuring both the Beatles themselves as well as producer Sir George Martin talking about the making of each album. And the Beatles have recently put up a preview video from the Revolver documentary on their official website (www.thebeatles.com). Although it doesn’t look like the documentaries will include any actual studio footage, getting to hear the Fab Four themselves talk about what went into each album is still a very cool thing. The preview video is pretty brief, but interesting nonetheless. It features McCartney explaining the name of the album Revolver, saying, “We suddenly thought ‘What does a record do?’ Hey, it revolves, great! So we called it Revolver.” Beatles fans make sure to be at the record stores bright and early on the morning of 9/9/09, because after almost 22-years of waiting, these albums won’t stay on the shelves for long.

-Laurie Moot
Currently listening to "Postcards From Hell" by The Wood Brothers

This content is solely the property of The Athens Blur Magazine and may not be re-produced without expressed written consent. The Athens Blur Magazine is an 8 issue/year music & variety publication proud to be based in the Classic City of Athens, Ga. For more information, please contact editorial@athensblur.com

McCartney shocks New Yorkers with rooftop concert

Paul McCartney shocked thousands of New Yorkers yesterday when he played a surprise mini-concert in midtown Manhattan from the top of the marquee of the Ed Sullivan Theater. McCartney is in New York for his christening set of concerts for the Mets’ new stadium at Citi Field, and was scheduled to perform for Late Show With David Letterman that night. McCartney played on the roof for about half an hour, playing songs such as “Band on the Run,” “Helter Skelter,” “Get Back,” and “Back in the U.S.S.R.” He joked in between songs with the crowd, which was so big nearby street corners had to be closed off. The scene was reminiscent of the Beatles’ famous Saville Row rooftop gig, and many remembered the Beatles making their first U.S. television debut on The Ed Sullivan Show in that same building. The free show may not have been as long as McCartney’s set for his upcoming Citi Field gigs, but compared to paying $300+ for a seat at Citi Field, the New Yorkers who caught a bit of his mini-concert today are not complaining.

-Laurie Moot
Currently listening to: "The Important Thing," by These United States

This content is solely the property of The Athens Blur Magazine and may not be re-produced without expressed written consent. The Athens Blur Magazine is an 8 issue/year music & variety publication proud to be based in the Classic City of Athens, Ga. For more information, please contact editorial@athensblur.com

Bouncing Back From Black

They tried to make her go to rehab, and now, the man who supposedly sparked all of Amy Winehouse’s drug and alcohol problems (according to Winehouse’s father) is officially out of the pop singer’s life.

Today, July 16, Winehouse and Blake Fielder-Civil were granted a divorce by London’s High Court by Judge Michael Segal. The two were not present at the proceedings that lasted only a few minutes, but Winehouse, who owns a fortune of an estimated $15 million, paid off Fielder-Civil with $3.6 million.

Fielder-Civil’s solicitor explained that in January of this year he had been, “instructed to commence divorce proceedings on the grounds of Amy's adultery."

There were no further comments on the subject of infidelity, but as for Fielder-Civil’s many run-ins with the law, last July he was sentenced to 27 months in jail for assaulting a pub landlord in east London in 2006.

That’s right Amy, throw that guy some change, hit the road and never look back to black. And by the way, where is that follow-up album? It’s been three years!

- Jessica Cole

Currently Listening to: “Mortal Combat Theme” by Scooter (Test Your Might!)

This content is solely the property of The Athens Blur Magazine and may not be re-produced without expressed written consent. The Athens Blur Magazine is an 8 issue/year music & variety publication proud to be based in the Classic City of Athens, Ga. For more information, please contact editorial@athensblur.com

Jim James Changes Name With George Harrison Tribute

With My Morning Jacket on hiatus, frontman Jim James has taken some time to work on a solo project: a tribute to George Harrison. James, who has always been ecclectic in his actions, has proven, yet again, that he can not be predicted. While most of James’ focus has been on the Monsters of Folk project, he has set aside some time to work on the six-song EP entitled Tribute To and is to be released under the name Yim Yames.

The name change is intentional, although it is unknown why the Y’s were chosen. "I go through different phases," James says. "I enjoy all the contributions the Beatles made, but at this point in my adult life, I'd say yes, I listen to George's music the most." Harrison fans should be excited, especially because the disc delivers all those therapeutic moments you'd want from a tribute album.

James really isn't doing much press for the EP, but he did share memories of his personal Beatles history: "I remember as a kid, hearing that hoax McCartney was dead," he says. "And then seeing the cover of 'Sgt. Peppers,' and seeing their wax figures there and thinking that those were really their dead bodies and that the Beatles were all dead but somehow still making music. I was very freaked out by that for some time." Rock on Jim James, rock on.

-Will Hackett
Currently listening to “White Shadows” by Coldplay

This content is solely the property of The Athens Blur Magazine and may not be re-produced without expressed written consent. The Athens Blur Magazine is an 8 issue/year music & variety publication proud to be based in the Classic City of Athens, Ga. For more information, please contact editorial@athensblur.com

Georgia Theatre event spotlight

Here's an update about upcoming benefits for the Georgia Theatre. Y'all keep coming out and supporting so we can get our Theatre back!

Benefit concert at Blur bar with Bluetech, TnT and AZ-IZ

Wednesday July 15th, 9 p.m., $8.00

Auction: Moe/Ratdog VIP, Masquerade Music Park

Thursday July 16th, 11 p.m.

A pair of VIP tickets for each of the shows is available on ebay for auction (go to http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=260444077898). The shows are July 17 and 18. The bidding ends tomorrow, July 16th.

Benefit at Masquerade with Moe and Ratdog and late night party with Perpetual Groove

Friday July 17th and Saturday July 18th, 1 day: $35, 2 day pass: $65 (with P.Groove late night combo: $89), 4 p.m.

Benefit at Masquerade with Gov't Mule, JJ Grey & Mofro and Outformation

Saturday July 25th, 3:30 p.m., $30.00

Benefit at Masquerade with Blazed & Confused Tour featuring Slightly Stoopid, Snoop Dogg, and special guest Stephen Marley, Mickey Avalon

Thursday July 30th, 5 p.m.

Georgia Theatre presents Eric Church at the 40 Watt

Friday September 11, 8 p.m., $20.00

Georgia Theatre presents Jamey Johnson at the 40 Watt

Wednesday October 14, 8 p.m., $21.50

Georgia Theatre t-shirt sale at www.georgiatheatre.com

Ongoing

'Chipin' widget at www.georgiatheatre.com

Ongoing

-Laurie Moot

Currently listening to "The Breeze," by Dr. Dog

This content is solely the property of The Athens Blur Magazine and may not be re-produced without expressed written consent. The Athens Blur Magazine is an 8 issue/year music & variety publication proud to be based in the Classic City of Athens, Ga. For more information, please contact editorial@athensblur.com

Editorial: Michael Jackson--Just A Phase?

Michael Jackson is everywhere and even if you wanted a break from the King of Pop for a while --- turn on your television and there he is again. Turn on your computer, and there he is again. Go to the gas station and pump gas, 27 people are blaring “Thriller” through their car speakers. Go into a bar, and a karaoke version of “Bad” is etching pictures of cheesy ‘80s leather in your head.

The funny thing about this new Michael Jackson craze is that a month ago, before the King of Pop’s untimely death, the mention of the name Michael Jackson would erupt a series of disgusted grunts and shouts of “pedophile” instead of praises for the singer’s amazing career.

America has seen situations like this before, but on a much grander and global scale. Does 9/11 ring any bells? I was in 7th grade when those horrible attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon took place, but I remember perfectly the sense of American pride that erupted across the nation once the smoke cleared. The first few months after, every one became pro- America. Flags were raised, country songs were sung about how kick ass the red, white and blue are and people were coming together. It was a short segment of our recent history where people actually felt pride behind their home country. By the next year, the “hype” had died down, and the Bush hating began.

Now, I’m not trying to get political and say that everyone needed to back up Bush. That’s not at all what I’m pointing out. There is a fine line between pride for one’s country and disagreements with the current office. I’m just implying that big moments in our country’s history are just like pop culture. We look at what is going on right now and once that fad dies out, we focus on something new. It makes one think . . . did we ever really care in the first place? (Think about it in terms of jeans. Flare jeans were awesome for a while, everyone wore them. Now, the hip thing is skinny jeans, thus, leaving wide seams a thing of the past.)

It’s unfortunate that American’s have such short attention spans. And for now, Michael Jackson is selling a record number of albums post-mortem (last week Jackson sold 1.1 million albums in one week).

Maybe this is just because of the age old saying, “you don’t know what you got ‘til it’s gone.” Or maybe all this publicity is making U.S. citizens jump on the Jackson band wagon.

This is not at all a bad thing, or an unheard of thing for people to buy an artist’s album once they pass away. It’s just comical to find those out there who couldn’t utter one positive word about the artist, can now praise him like they have appreciated him this whole time.

Maybe Jackson’s passing is a positive thing in that people are able to push away all of the bad publicity and just applaud an artist for his phenomenal contributions to music. Or maybe, this is just a phase.

- Jessica Cole

Currently Listening to: "Closing Time" by Semisonic

This content is solely the property of The Athens Blur Magazine and may not be re-produced without expressed written consent. The Athens Blur Magazine is an 8 issue/year music & variety publication proud to be based in the Classic City of Athens, Ga. For more information, please contact editorial@athensblur.com

Michael Jackson's Pepsi Ad from 1984 uncovered by US Weekly

A rare video from Michael Jackson's video shoot for a Pepsi Advertisement in 1984 has been made public (warning: the video is a bit graphic). In the shoot, the pyrotechnics went terribly wrong and Jackson's hair caught on fire. The pyrotechnics were set off too early and sparks ignited Jackson, who was unaware that he was on fire for the first few seconds. Jackson suffered second and third degree burns on his face and scalp. According to reports, the accident caused Jackson's eventual use of painkillers and prescription medications in order to help him through his recovery. Jackson and Pepsi settled out of court for $1.5 million, which Jackson donated to the Brotman Memorial Hospital in Culver City, Calif., establishing the Michael Jackson Burn Center for Children.

-Laurie Moot
Currently listening to: "All Love," by Ingrid Michaelson

This content is solely the property of The Athens Blur Magazine and may not be re-produced without expressed written consent. The Athens Blur Magazine is an 8 issue/year music & variety publication proud to be based in the Classic City of Athens, Ga. For more information, please contact editorial@athensblur.com

'Chinese Democracy' Leak Blogger Is Sentenced

Leaking music on the internet is a no, no, and if you’re leaking the newest Guns n’ Roses album-- Chinese Democracy-- then you better prepare for a year’s worth of probation.

In a Los Angeles court, Kevin Cogill, was tried by US District Magistrate Judge Paul Abrams on July 14. Along with the probation, Cogill will also serve two months of home confinement, his computers must be searched and he will record a public service announcement concerning anti-piracy for the Recording Industry of America.

Cogill apologized for his actions during the trial saying, “I never intended to hurt the artist. I intended to promote the artist because I'm a fan.”

Judge Abrams explained that though large fines and jail time were being sought for leaking the album, he believed that Cogill had learned his lesson and didn’t believe a repeat offense would occur.

- Jessica Cole

Currently Listening to: “The Wanting Comes in Waves/Repaid” by The Decemberists

This content is solely the property of The Athens Blur Magazine and may not be re-produced without expressed written consent. The Athens Blur Magazine is an 8 issue/year music & variety publication proud to be based in the Classic City of Athens, Ga. For more information, please contact editorial@athensblur.com