4 immediate - Rochester, MN

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EXPOSED
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December, 2007
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1205513930EM
EXPO_00_12_05_OLIVE
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EXPO_00_12_05_OLIVE
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December, 2007
Page 7-9
Feature Article, Ugg boots,
True Religion jeans, local
fashion mavens have it all
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COVER
Bigger than life, in his leather
flamed pants, Bob Schlief poses
during his band’s latest gig.
Photograph by Jeffrey Johnson
••
Stacie Hammer
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Marketing
Manager
Every cat I ever had
I named Teddy,
and every cat that
I named Teddy
died a tragic death.
Promotions
Manager
I called our family dog
“Spot” even though
her name was Murphy.
She was a golden retriever with no spots.
Renee Berg
Tell us about your childhood pet!
Anne Reinke
••
Page 22
Just Asking discovers six packs
are required for male dancers
Editor
••
P12
Page 14-16
Event Calendar, our listing
of what’s cool to do
We had a cat nicknamed Vomit. My
brother is strange.
Feature Writer
A terrier named Kelly.
What is up with dogs
loving the taste of
garbage?
Graphic Designer
There were MANY and
MANY KINDS, everything from guineas,
opossums and a pig to
dogs, cats and horses.
Ryan Bronkema
E-mail: [email protected] for complete list.
Page 17-19
My Deal, get to know lead singer,
guitar player, and veteran rocker
Bob Schlief of Unatural!
Page 12-13
In A Flash, a pictorial review
of the local bar scene
Jeffrey Johnson
Editorial Correspondence:
Rack Locations:
P7
Page 11
Date Doctor says it’s time to
talk about boyfriend’s porn
Emily Buss
••
VOLUME ONE / ISSUE FOUR
Amber Stammen
••
DEC. 07
Renee Berg
E-mail: [email protected]
EXPOSED
Page 5
Musing About, Sarah Shonyo
covers the big Ds of 2007
P22
Columnist
“Date Doctor”
I had a guinea pig
named Sheep. Think
twice when you realize how cute a guinea
pig really is ...
Columnist
No pet, but I have
been mangled by
neighbor’s dogs.
Columnist
Sarah Shonyo
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Page 3
We had a Springer
Spaniel named Becky.
She got run over by a
car. I’m still scarred.
3
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December, 2007
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December, 2007
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5
MUSING ABOUT
By Sarah Shonyo
and until this year I’d never given it much thought.
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EXPOSED
I knew something was wrong when I looked at my phone
one Saturday morning this past May. Seeing nine missed
calls and three voice-mails before 8:00 a.m. didn’t exactly
elicit encouraging thoughts.
I don’t make New Year’s resolutions. Ever since my 1991
pledge to become Paula Abdul’s lead backup singer fell
through, I’ve opted against setting myself up for failure.
Instead, I take an approach that is much more in sync with
my personality - meaning reflection and reaction rather
than projection and intention.
And so, in the spirit of hindsight and cheesy alliteration,
I offer the four Ds of what has turned out to be the most
bizarre year of my life.
Diagnosis. I never thought I’d say this, but being
diagnosed with a neurological disorder was the best thing
that ever happened to me.
In January of 2007 I was diagnosed with Narcolepsy. After
the initial shock subsided, I was overwhelmed with feelings
of relief and validation. I’m not a lazy piece of crap. I’m
Narcoleptic!
And now, for the first time in my life, I know what it feels
like to be awake. It’s absolutely incredible.
Sure, I’ll have to be on medication for the rest of my life to
achieve only 80% of what is considered “normal” alertness;
I run the risk of spontaneously losing muscle control in
any and all parts of my body (if you happen to see me laying on the ground paralyzed please make sure no one steps
on me. I’ll be fine in just a minute); I can’t drive alone on
any road trips outside of Rochester; and I have to entertain
endless questions and unoriginal jokes.
While I’m on the subject … No, I have never seen Deuce
Bigalow. No, I don’t have to wear a helmet. And no, you’re
not funny.
My grandma passed away unexpectedly the night before.
It’s no secret that death changes those of us left behind.
My mother, my rock, was a heart-broken daughter and my
grandpa was a grieving husband. It was all incredibly unnerving.
After the funeral, my cousin Adam and I talked about our
grandma and how her death would change our family.
When we parted ways that afternoon I reiterated a previous
comment and told him that a braided goatee was not, in
fact, a babe magnet. He should even think about trimming
his, I said.
That grossly ineloquent piece of advice gained permanence
as the last thing I would ever say to my cousin. Adam was
killed in a car accident one month later. He had recently
turned 22 years old.
I don’t have any earth shattering advice to bestow upon
you. I just know that it took losing two of the most important people in my life to understand what – and
who – is really important. If you can reach that same
conclusion without having to actually attend a funeral, I’d
strongly recommend it.
Disaster. Or, as my insurance claims adjuster referred
to it, catastrophe.
Chances are you know someone affected by the recent
flooding in our area. If not - now you do. My basement was
essentially destroyed by the water, and ooohh, I was mad.
I live within $50 of paycheck to paycheck, so it’s not like I
have extra funds lying around to pump into a basement I
rarely use.
Dating. The end of 2007 will mark the first full year
since 1998 that I haven’t been someone’s girlfriend. I like
to tell myself that the decision to remain single has been
personal preference and has nothing to do with being
hopped up on stimulants, my man-eating dog, my
cameo performance as a drag queen, or the very
public forum which I use to write about my life.
I quit my whining long enough to read a request from the
Rushford newspaper for volunteer reporters to help record
an overwhelming amount of information. I offered my services and found myself headed toward a tiny town turned
disaster area.
Though something about seeing the above in writing does
make me sound a bit creepy.
I spent the day wandering around Rushford on foot. The
town reeked of sewage, curbs were lined with the
soggy remnants of people’s lives, and windows
were plastered with signs that prompted “Never
Ever Give Up.”
Being single has its advantages. Not having a second-half
around has done wonders for my confidence. Case in
point: I spent Valentine’s Day drinking beer at a local pub
in a red “Just Say No to Love” t-shirt.
I’m not bitter. I’m enlightened.
Death. Yes, death. It’s the one inevitable thing in life
That decision led to a (much-deserved) proverbial slap
across the face.
Through the interviewing process I laughed, cried, and
grieved with complete strangers. I listened intently and
wrote furiously. One thing I couldn’t do, however, was empathize. My wet basement had officially become a non-issue
(and will probably remain so until I sell my house).
I’m not going to lie and say I’m sad 2007 is coming to an
end. In fact, I’m a little irritated that my first year “awake”
was filled with so much grief rather than, say, sipping cocktails with Paula Abdul.
There’s always next year, I guess. Hey Paula, give me a call.
Sarah Shonyo is a Rochester freelancer who does not want her
relationship musings to be mistaken for a personal ad.
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December, 2007
4 IMMEDIATE
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Neo-hippie Musicians
Come to Rochester
Nu Funk Mafia, a trio of talented musicians
offering styles ranging from funk to rock to
jazz to blues to reggae to -- the list isn’t done
yet-- soul hits Rochester Dec. 29 at Kathy’s Pub.
The Minneapolis-based band calls their
music energetic and flirtatiously spontaneous.
Featured songs are from “Time For Exodus,”
the band’s self-produced and released debut
album. “Time For Exodus” contains an eclectic
offering of 16 original tracks crafted to grab the
listener’s attention.
Hitting the stage for Nu Funk Mafia will be
Nick Greenwald, guitar, vocals and songwriting, Marty Illetschko, drums, and
Nu Funk Mafia
Brian Tollefson, bass and vocals. The band
promises the energy and endurance of kicking
jam bands.
With powerful prowess and presence,
Nu Funk Mafia promises to percolate through
the pulse of music lovers everywhere.
The band has opened for Kip Blackshire, God
Johnson, The New Congress and Shauntae.
Among the venues they’ve played are The Cabooze, Bunkers, Minnesota Music Cafe,
The Red Carpet and The Broken Axe.
EVENT INFORMATION:
Date: Saturday, December 29, 2007
Venue: Kathy’s Pub (307 South Broadway)
Phone: 507-252-8355
Web site: www.nufunkmafia.com
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December, 2007
EXPOSED
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By Emily Buss
Fashion in today’s society is changing
faster than a New York minute. With so
many people dressing so differently
today, keeping up with trends can
be downright exhausting. Ever have
trouble figuring out what to wear in
the morning? Or wonder if your clothes
aren’t hip enough? Then you’re just like
millions of Americans who are constantly
reinventing their wardrobe. But, it’s the
people who keep their style as unique as
themselves who are the real trendsetters.
Four fashion-driven locals agreed to
put their outfits to the test this month
by showcasing their taste in clothes.
Only in America does a vintage rocker,
a hard-core kid and two savvy business
women come together to make the
perfect fashion statement.
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Star Search!
This page: Whitney Benedett and Logan Reed make Exposed’s
short list of local style setters. Submitted photos.
Page 8: Kari Schneider Page 9: Curt Queensland
Photos by Exposed’s Brian Kilen
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December, 2007
BIOS
Whitney Benedett: 22-year-old assistant to two
event planners for The Department of Development
at Mayo Clinic. She was born and raised in Rochester, enjoys spending time with her family and neighbors and is pregnant and getting ready to transition
to the role of Mom.
E: Where do you shop?
WB: Anywhere I find cute clothes! Rarely do I go to the
mall anymore, I do most of my shopping online. But,
now that I have a bun in the oven it makes it that much
more difficult to find clothes! I’m tall so it’s hard to find
pants long enough and now that I’m pregnant ... no one
carries long pants!
E: How would you describe your sense of style?
WB: My own and colorful. I don’t want to wear what
everyone else is wearing. Like my Ugg boots, I got those
like 3 years ago when I went to New York and everyone
made fun of me. Now look at all the people that wear
them!
E: Has anyone ever complimented on your look?
WB: Lots of people ... the people I work with, my husband, his sisters, my friends, family and random people!
E: How much do you usually spend on an outfit or
article of clothing?
people that see this “image” they are supposed to match
up to. I also want to see more options for tall and thin
women that don’t cost $300 for one piece of clothing.
I’m not that wealthy yet!
guy says his biggest inspiration for his wardrobe is
the music he listens to.
E: Where do you shop?
LR: Thrift stores and online.
Logan Reed: 21-year-old college student who describes himself as a man of wisdom and knowledge.
This eclectic individual involves humor and whimsical activities into his daily life. He is a very happy-golucky person with a positive outlook on each day,
regardless if it is interesting or not. This fashionable
E: How would you describe your sense of style?
LR: Sensational, with a side of Glitz and Glamour.
E: What do your clothes say about you?
LR: Everything. I care about how I look. Clothes comE: Do you ever look back on your previous fashion and
ask, “What the hell was I thinking?!”
LR: I don’t really look back on all the styles I went
through in a lifetime but if I could take one of my looks
back it would definitely be when I was in grade school
when my Mom used to make me wear white turtlenecks and football jerseys. Not to mention, I used to
sport a wicked mullet that was spiked up with mousse.
Yikes!
E: What kind of tattoos and piercings do you have?
LR: My first and only tattoo thus far is an entire chest
E: Where do you get the ideas or influences for clothing
keep it under $50 but that doesn’t always work. My
shoes and purses usually cost the most though.
LR: I get my “fashion sense” from not only the style of
WB: Oh my gosh, I used to wear the shirts that
showed your tummy. I look for the longest shirts
now. That’s the one thing that has changed
180 degrees. Oh well ... we all have our times.
E: Where do you get the ideas or influences
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piece that says ‘Hopeless Romantic’. I have both my ears
pierced which are gauged and also have “snake-bites,” or
what is known as a double labret lip piercing.
styles?
and ask, “What the hell was I thinking?!”
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plete my daily ensembles.
WB: Whatever it costs so that it will fit me! I try and
E: Do you ever look back on your previous fashion
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music that I listen to but also just for the reason
that I like to look good and not like a
homeless person. No offense.
E: If you could change on thing in the
fashion industry, what would it be?
LR: I don’t know. I don’t really care
about the fashion industry or what a
trend look is. I just wear what I like.
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for clothing styles?
WB: Magazines, advertisements, some celebrities, other people that I see walking around
in Rochester, Chicago, etc. I put different styles
of difference sources together and make up
my own sometimes, too.
E: If you could change one thing in the fashion industry, what would it be?
WB: That they incorporate models of different sizes for all the different women in
the world. I feel bad for all the young
Kari Schneider: 25-year-old
Kitchen and Bath Designer at
Stock Building Supply. She grew
up in Meire Grove, Minn., a small
town located between Alexandria
and St. Cloud. She graduated from
Alexandria Technical College where
she majored in Kitchen and Bath
Design and earned her degree in
Interior Design.
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December, 2007
E: Where do you shop?
E: How would you describe your sense of style?
KS: When I get a chance to shop I enjoy going to the
mall. I tend to be a bargain shopper so wherever the
sales are, I am there. With my designer background you
can find me at Pier One or Ikea.
CQ: Vintage rocker with a country flare.
E: How would you describe you sense of style?
E: Do you have a favorite outfit or accessory?
KS: Sleek, modern and professional.
CQ: I have a pair of True Religion jeans that they only
E: What do your clothes say about you?
KS: I am definitely not a sweat pants type of girl. Every
time I go somewhere I have to look put together.
E: Do you have a favorite outfit or accessory?
KS: No, not really. I’m always up for new things. Now
on the other hand, my shoes, I have favorites. I own
over one hundred pairs.
E: Is fashion something that is important to you?
CQ: It is my number one priority everyday.
made 1,500 pairs in production. And I have one of
them. $384.00 a pair.
E: How much do you usually spend on an outfit or
article of clothing?
CQ: Jeans normally are $200 to $400 per pair. As far as
an outfit, normal day is around $800. I have a $1,000
Cole Haan leather coat from Hollywood.
E: Do you ever look back on your previous fashion and
E: How much do you usually spend on an outfit or
article of clothing?
KS: Jeans and shoes are the most expensive. I am a
bargain shopper so it varies. Put it this way, I have never
spent over $100 on a pair of shoes. They may retail for
over but you have to look in the right places to find the
deals.
E: Do you ever look back on your previous fashion and
ask, “What the hell was I thinking?!”
KS: Of course. In high school, what was I thinking? Silk
skirts and high tops!
E: Where do you get the ideas or influences for clothing
ask, “What the hell was I thinking?!”
CQ: Of course, but I don’t regret the 80’s style at all!
E: Where do you get the ideas or influences for clothing
styles?
CQ: Musicians, magazines and music videos.
E: If you could change one thing in the fashion industry,
what would it be?
CQ: That more major labels would be sold in Rochester
so I wouldn’t have to fly or drive to get my clothes. And
have better marketing in the Midwest. Wal-Mart is not
an option.
styles?
KS: My design background will give me a heads up in
color trends and that kind of sets the palate. I do also
look through magazines.
E: If you could change one thing in the fashion industry, what would it be?
KS: Leggings, get rid of them!
Curt Queensland: 42-year-old vintage rocker
who not only has the look but has the persona of
famous country star Keith Urban. He works as a disc
jockey in Rochester and collects records and spends
a lot of time attending concerts and getting as
many autographs as he can. He also has a keen eye
for the finer things in life.
E: Where do you shop?
CQ: I usually go to New York City twice a year to shop.
And in Minneapolis and Edina.
Whether you’re a bargain shopper or have a
knack for expensive apparel, fashion, like beauty, is in the eye of the beholder. While we’re in
the midst changing seasons for both weather
and fashion, many diehards are out finding
new winter outfits while others who don’t care
to spend a fortune on new duds are sifting
through their closet searching for something
to revamp this year. Now, although Webster
wasn’t a famous designer, he did know his
vocabulary. Style means kind or variety. Very
appropriate seeing as there are millions of
style and varieties of people. No matter who
you are, different things appeal to different
people. Besides, whether it’s the mall
or thrift shops, New York City or
the Mall of America, tis the season to shop!
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December, 2007
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December, 2007
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EXPOSED
THE DATE DOCTOR
By Ryan Bronkema
DD,
Dear Doc,
My girlfriend of about a year just
started hanging out with a
gay couple that she met. I realize
that they are gay, but it still
makes me wonder knowing that she
spends so much time
with them especially when I hear
some of the things they like
doing, like trying on clothes in fron
t of each other. She tells me
that they have no interest in her bec
ause she is a female and it
is just like girlfriends hanging out.
So, should I be feeling this
way or do I have a reason to be con
cerned?
friend’s
hy on my boy
p
ra
og
n
or
p
d
dly foun
le. When I
I have repeate
y uncomfortab
er
v
e
m
es
ak
this m
he won’t do it
computer and
izes and says
og
ol
ap
e
h
,
it
out
ld I do?
talk to him ab
ay. What shou
rd
te
es
y
e
or
st found m
any more. I ju
le
Uncomfortab
Left Wondering
Dear Uncomfortable,
You have to talk to him again. But be ready to act on what you say you will do if you
find any more porn on his computer.
When you say you have talked to him, what did you say to him? Did you suggest to
him that he get rid of the porn, or let him know how uncomfortable you are knowing he has porn? If you have not been clear it might not be absolutely understood the
immediacy of your discomfort with the computer situation.
If you need a comparison, porn to men is like trashy romance novels to women, only
more graphic. It keeps men’s’ sexual imaginations going. It keeps men thinking, and
wondering about what options the world has that they might not ever experience. Just
because he might have porn this does not mean he wants you to actively play any of
those “roles,” they are a fantasy. This is not meant to be any justification on his part,
but just some thoughts about why he might have the porn to begin with.
If he said he would get rid of the porn for you and chose not to, then you have a few of options.
1) Be more direct with your disapproval and let him know that dating you includes
not having porn.
2) Moving on and understanding he will not give up on the porn.
3) Give in and accept that fact that some men have a difficult time going without porn.
That being said, many men indulge in porn now and again. It is a part of our curious
and sexual nature. As women who date men (or men who date other men for that
matter) it is important to understand that you need to be clear with your partner
about who you are and what you’re not comfortable with.
Dear Wondering,
Trust is of the utmost importance in relationships, and regardless of who your girlfriend’s friends are, and who they are attracted to, you need to trust that she is not going to do anything to hurt you. The fact that she tells you what she and her new friends
are doing when they hang out is a great sign of trust. This sign of trust should help you
feel safe knowing she is not feeling awkward about what is going on with her friends,
and neither should you. It should be a sign of relief to know she is being open with you
about the time they spend together. Cheating is rarely connected with honesty.
Take some time to spend with your girlfriend and her new friends over lunch or some
place non-threatening as a group. This way you will see how her new friends interact
with her and realize again there is little to worry about. Guessing and seeing for yourself are two different ball games.
Take the chance to get to know about her relationships with her friends.
In time I am sure you will find that there is nothing to worry about.
Continue to listen to her when she tells you about the time
she spends with them, and in time it will become
even clearer how much stronger
your trust can be.
Doc
Doc
Need dating or
relationship advice?
Ask the Date Doc!
E-mail your question to
[email protected]
11
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December, 2007
IN A
Your city. Your friends. Your photos. Your pages!
. 30, 2007
9, 1986 - Oct
2
.
ct
O
ful.
a Jax, left
s you, Beauti
is
Amanda Le
m
d
n
a
u
o
– We love y
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December, 2007
EXPOSED
Want to be EXPOSED ‘In A Flash’?
Send us your photos for next month’s issue.
Deadline for photos is the 27th of each month.
E-mail all photos to: [email protected]
Usage of all “In A Flash” photographs are at the consent of all individuals within the photograph and must
be obtained directly from those individuals before photographing. The consent and written or verbal contract
will be done prior to obtaining any photograph by any photographer, personal or professional. The photographer assumes responsibility for ensuring that consent is obtained, and any alleged violations of consent from
individuals photographed are the responsibility of the photographer. For e-mailed photographs: add your full
name and as an editor will contact you for a legally binding signature assuring that all individuals within all
photographs sent are consenting to using and printing their image within the publication, Exposed.
13
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December, 2007
ENTERTAINING
DECEMBER CALENDAR
WEDNESDAY 12/5
Dancing
Dance Dance Revolution Night - The Break Room
Games
Texas Hold ‘Em
Trappers Lounge, The La Quinta Inn – 7pm
Wii Bowling - Billy Mac’s
THURSDAY 12/6
Games
Cash Bar Bingo - Rookie’s Sports Bar
Poker Shootout - Billy Mac’s – 7pm
Poker Tournament - North Star Bar
7pm & 10pm
Texas Hold ‘Em
Legends Lounge, Riverview Greens – 7pm
Music
Joe from New York - Dunn Brothers – 6:30pm
Perri & Carey (Country/Southern Rock)
Whiskey Bones – 9pm
FRIDAY 12/7
Comedy
Frank Roche & Mike Brody
Goonies Comedy Club – 7:30 & 10pm ($12/$15)
Dancing
Dance Club & DJ - Gilligan’s
2 Hot Fridays with DJ Brotha Jules
Westfire – 10pm
DJ Xtreme Digital - Coyote Club
Games
Texas Hold ‘Em - T-N-D Billiards – 7pm
Music
Americana Showcase with performances
by Six Mile Grove, The Floorbirds
and Meg Ashling - The Break Room – 6pm
Astrogliders - Pine Island Sports Bar
Dean & Datten Saner (Folk/Pop)
Dunn Brothers – 7pm
Gel - North Star Bar
Inertia - CJ’s Midtown Lounge
Mini-Booker Band - Boomers
Next 2 Nothing - Striker’s Corner
Sisters & Co. - VFW Club – 8pm
Snoot Gibson - Billy Mac’s – 9pm
Stealin’ Strings - Kathy’s Pub
Studebaker John & The Hawks w/ Melvin Tailer
(Blues) - Whiskey Bones – 9pm
Swing Inc. (Jazz/Swing) - Canadian Honker
SATURDAY 12/8
Comedy
Frank Roche& Mike Brody
Goonies Comedy Club – 7:30 & 10pm ($12/$15)
Dancing
Dance Club & DJ - Gilligan’s
DJ Xtreme Digital - Coyote Club
DJ Xtreme Digital - Westfire – 10pm
Games
Poker Shootout - Billy Mac’s - 3pm
Toys for Tots Pool Tournament - Billy Mac’s
Music
Ben Olsen - Beetles Bar & Grill
Black Valentine - North Star Bar
Brother Music Sister Rhythm
(Old Time Americana) - Dunn Brothers – 7pm
Citi Collective and Heatbox - Kathy’s Pub
Inertia - CJ’s Midtown Lounge
James Thomas - Whistle Binkies North – 9pm
Love Songs for Angry Men
(Rock n’ Roll/Funk/Soul) - Canadian Honker
Mel’s Diner - Boomers
Next 2 Nothing - Striker’s Corner
Plan B - Whiskey Bones – 9pm
Salsa Night - Avocados – 8:30pm
Sentinel Event - Rookie’s Sports Bar
Sisters & Co. - VFW Club – 8pm
Vegetable Men - King’s Crossing – 9pm
Wicked Sounds DJs - Pine Island Sports Bar
SUNDAY 12/9
Games
Poker League - Westfire – 4 & 7pm
Poker Sundays - Billy Mac’s – 1-4pm
Texas Hold ‘Em - Coyote Club – 1pm
MONDAY 12/10
Games
Bean Bag Toss League - Gilligan’s – 9pm
Cash Games - Billy Mac’s – 7 & 10pm
Texas Hold ’Em - Whiskey Bones – 7pm
TUESDAY 12/11
Dancing
Dance Club - Gilligan’s – 9pm
Games
Poker Tournament - North Star Bar – 7 & 10pm
Poker League - Rookie’s Sports Bar – 7 & 10pm
Texas Hold ‘Em - T-N-D Billiards – 7pm
Music
G-Monkeys - The Breakroom
Karaoke - Billy Mac’s – 9pm-1am
Karaoke - Whiskey Bones – 8pm
••
WEDNESDAY 12/12
Dancing
Dance Dance Revolution Night - The Break Room
Film
Adam’s Apples (A dark comedy from Germany
and Denmark) - iFilms Series
Rochester Public Library – 6pm
Games
Texas Hold ‘Em
Trappers Lounge, The La Quinta Inn – 7pm
Wii Bowling - Billy Mac’s
THURSDAY 12/13
Games
Cash Bar Bingo - Rookie’s Sports Bar
Poker Shootout - Billy Mac’s – 7pm
Poker Tournament - North Star Bar – 7 & 10pm
Texas Hold ‘Em
Legends Lounge, Riverview Greens – 7pm
Music
Ben Olsen - Whistle Binkies North – 8pm
GB Leighton (Country) - Whiskey Bones – 9pm
FRIDAY 12/14
Comedy
Monte Allen & The Cowboy Comedian
Goonies Comedy Club – 7:30 & 10pm ($12/$15)
Dancing
Dance Club & DJ - Gilligan’s
DJ Xtreme Digital - Coyote Club
DJ Xtreme Digital - Westfire – 10pm
Music
Annie Lawler - Whistle Binkies South – 9pm
Dazy Head Mazy - Rookie’s Sports Bar
Down Lo (CD Release Party) - Kathy’s Pub
GEMINI - North Star Bar
James Thomas - Beetles Bar & Grill
Incognito - Striker’s Corner
Long Shot - Canadian Honker
Maxx Cabello Jr. (Guitarist)
Whiskey Bones – 9pm
Susan Kinter (Seasonal Violin Music)
Dunn Brothers – 7pm
The Chub’s - Mickey’s Irish Saloon – 9pm
The Radio Band - Pine Island Sports Bar
White Lightning - VFW Club – 8pm
SATURDAY 12/15
Comedy
Monte Allen & The Cowboy Comedian
Goonies Comedy Club – 7:30 & 10pm ($12/$15)
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December, 2007
Dancing
Dance Club & DJ - Gilligan’s
DJ Xtreme Digital - Coyote Club
DJ Xtreme Digital - Westfire – 10pm
Games
Poker Shootout - Billy Mac’s – 3pm
Games
Texas Hold ‘Em
Trappers Lounge, The La Quinta Inn – 7pm
Wii Bowling - Billy Mac’s
Music
Jazz Night with the Jeff Clark Trio - Avocados
John Paulson’s Jazz Quartet - Canadian Honker
Juke Box Heroes (Classic Rock)
Whistle Binkies South – 9pm
PKA The Christines - Striker’s Corner
Sawtooth (Bluegrass) - Dunn Brothers – 7pm
Ship of Foolz - Rookie’s Sports Bar
Spindrift - Pine Island Sports Bar
STIR - North Star Bar
The Alarmists and The Melismatics - Kathy’s Pub
The Chub’s - Mickey’s Irish Saloon – 9pm
The Cruisers (Old Time/Classic Rock ‘n’ Roll)
Boomers
White Lightning - VFW Club – 8pm
Games
Cash Bar Bingo - Rookie’s Sports Bar
Poker Shootout - Billy Mac’s – 7pm
Poker Tournament - North Star Bar – 7 & 10pm
Texas Hold ‘Em
Legends Lounge, Riverview Greens – 7pm
SUNDAY 12/16
Games
Poker League - Westfire – 4 & 7pm
Poker Sundays - Billy Mac’s – 1-4pm
Texas Hold ‘Em - Coyote Club – 1pm
Texas Hold ‘Em
Legends Lounge, Riverview Greens – 7pm
MONDAY 12/17
Games
Bean Bag Toss League - Gilligan’s – 9pm
Cash Games - Billy Mac’s – 7 & 10pm
Texas Hold’Em - Whiskey Bones – 7pm
Music
Tim Fast - Redwood Room – 6pm
TUESDAY 12/18
Dancing
Dance Club - Gilligan’s – 9pm
Games
Poker League - Rookie’s Sports Bar
7pm & 10pm
Poker Tournament - North Star Bar
7pm & 10pm
Texas Hold ‘Em - T-N-D Billiards – 7pm
Music
Patchwork - The Break Room
Tim Fast - Redwood Room – 6pm
Karaoke - Billy Mac’s – 9am-1am
Karaoke - Whiskey Bones – 8pm
WEDNESDAY 12/19
Dancing
Dance Dance Revolution Night - The Break Room
THURSDAY 12/20
Music
Ben Olsen - Whistle Binkies South – 8pm
Johnny Holmes - Westfire – 9:45pm
Long Shot - Whiskey Bones – 9pm
EXPOSED
15
Orange Whip - Whiskey Bones – 9pm
Striker - Boomers
The Amy M Band - Kathy’s Pub
The Chub’s - VFW Club – 8pm
Trevor Marty (Folk/Bluegrass)
Dunn Brothers – 7pm
Unnatural - North Star Bar
SUNDAY 12/23
Games
Poker League - Westfire – 4 & 7pm
Poker Sundays - Billy Mac’s – 1-4pm
Texas Hold ‘Em - Coyote Club – 1pm
Music
Ship of Foolz - Kathy’s Pub
WEDNESDAY 12/26
FRIDAY 12/21
Comedy
Andy Ritchie & Chris Smith
Goonies Comedy Club – 7:30 & 10pm ($12/$15)
Dancing
Dance Club & DJ - Gilligan’s
DJ Xtreme Digital - Coyote Club
DJ Xtreme Digital - Westfire – 10pm
Games
Texas Hold ‘Em
Legends Lounge, Riverview Greens – 7pm
Music
Eight Switch Assembly - Kathy’s Pub
Jud’s Harmony - Canadian Honker
Micah Wetzel - Sontes – 8pm
Peter Solo & The D’Sievers (Jazz)
Dunn Brothers – 7pm
Ship of Foolz - Viking Lounge – 8pm
The Chub’s - VFW Club – 8pm
The Ruggs - Pine Island Sports Bar
Trouble Shooter - Whiskey Bones – 9pm
UNATURAL - North Star Bar
SATURDAY 12/22
Comedy
Andy Ritchie & Chris Smith
Goonies Comedy Club – 7:30 & 10pm ($12/$15)
Dancing
Dance Club & DJ - Gilligan’s
DJ Xtreme Digital - Coyote Club
DJ Xtreme Digital - Westfire – 10pm
Games
Poker Shootout - Billy Mac’s – 3pm
Music
Felix Derow - Rookie’s Sports Bar
Hamilton Blues Band (Blues) - Canadian Honker
Johnny Bird DJ - Pine Island Sports Bar
Micah Wetzel - Sontes – 8pm
Comedy
Josh Blue - Mayo Civic Center,
Presentation Hall - 8pm ($27.50)
Dancing
Dance Dance Revolution Night - The Break Room
Games
Wii Bowling - Billy Mac’s
Music
32 Below (Country/Rock) - Whiskey Bones – 9pm
THURSDAY 12/27
Games
Cash Bar Bingo - Rookie’s Sports Bar
Poker Shootout - Billy Mac’s – 7pm
Poker Tournament - North Star Bar – 7 & 10pm
Music
Reverend Raven & His Chain Smoking Altar Boys
(Blues) - Whiskey Bones – 9pm
FRIDAY 12/28
Comedy
Dan Grueter & Mike Baldwin
Goonies Comedy Club – 7:30 & 10pm ($12/$15)
Dancing
Dance Club & DJ - Gilligan’s
DJ Xtreme Digital - Coyote Club
DJ Xtreme Digital - Westfire – 10pm
Music
2 O’Clock Jump - Canadian Honker
Bruce Bungum Band (Classic Rock)
Whistle Binkies South – 9pm
Cold Water Canyon - VFW Club – 8pm
Rumerz - Beetles Bar & Grill
Shoveldance - Kathy’s Pub
Slow Children - North Star Bar
The Rhythm Junkies - Whiskey Bones – 9pm
Troubleshooter - Striker’s Corner
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December, 2007
SATURDAY 12/29
Comedy
Dan Grueter & Mike Baldwin
Goonies Comedy Club – 7:30 & 10pm ($12/$15)
Dancing
Dance Club & DJ - Gilligan’s
DJ Xtreme Digital - Coyote Club
DJ Xtreme Digital - Westfire – 10pm
Games
Poker Shootout - Billy Mac’s – 3pm
Music
AC/DC & Ozzy Tribute Bands
Whiskey Bones – 9pm
Bump City - Boomers
Chris Lawrence - Mickey’s Irish Saloon – 9pm
Cold Water Canyon - VFW Club – 8pm
Jan Marie Munz (Folk)
Dunn Brothers – 7pm
Juke Box Heroes - Beetles Bar & Grill
Miles Johnson Jazz Quartet
Canadian Honker
Nu Fink Mafia - Kathy’s Pub
Rock Fist - North Star Bar
Summit Avenue - Rookie’s Sports Bar
Troubleshooter - Striker’s Corner
SUNDAY 12/30
Comedy
Don Rickles - Mystic Lake Casino
7pm ($65/$50)
Games
Poker League - Westfire – 4 & 7pm
Poker Sundays - Billy Mac’s – 1-4pm
Texas Hold ‘Em - Coyote Club – 1pm
Music
Chris Lawrence - Mickey’s Irish Saloon – 9pm
Sinbad - Mystic Lake Casino
4 & 10:30pm ($39/$29)
MONDAY 12/31
Comedy
Don Rickles - Mystic Lake Casino
7pm ($65/$50)
Dancing
2 O’Clock Jump (Swing, Jazz, & Blues)
Blue Moon Ballroom - Lessons – 8-8:30pm,
Dancing – 8:30-12:30am ($12/$15)
Events
New Years Bash - Westfire – 10pm
New Years Eve Bash - Gilligan’s
New Years Party
Whistle Binkies North & South
Music
Innocent Reggae Band
Whistle Binkies North – 9pm
Juke Box Heroes (Classic Rock)
Whistle Binkies South – 9pm
Room for Gray - Rookie’s Sports Bar – 10pm
Sinbad - Mystic Lake Casino
4 & 10:30pm ($39/$29)
Sloppy Donkey (Country Rock) - Boomers
Smokin’ Coyotes - Striker’s Corner
UNATURAL - North Star Bar
••
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TUESDAY 1/1
Dancing
Dance Club - Gilligan’s – 9pm
Games
Poker League - Rookie’s Sports Bar – 7 & 10pm
Poker Tournament - North Star Bar – 7 & 10pm
Music
Karaoke - Billy Mac’s – 9pm-1am
Karaoke - Whiskey Bones – 8pm
••
WEDNESDAY 1/2
Dancing
Dance Dance Revolution Night - The Break Room
Games
Wii Bowling - Billy Mac’s
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December, 2007
••
By Jeffrey Johnson
“I
wish we could go see that band that
has the big lead singer with flames
on his pants.” I said that to a friend of
mine a couple of years ago. Since then, I’ve
seen that big guy and his band numerous
times. They’re always great and they
always rock! This Halloween I made my
way to the Star to hopefully meet up
with him and ask him for an exclusive
interview.
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17
MY DEAL
••
••
EXPOSED
Get to
Know
R chester’s
Big Show
UNATURAL’s Guitar Player
& Lead Singer Bob Schlief
Bob Schlief and his band, Unatural,
rocked the popular Halloween party. As I
watched this year’s show, I thought about
last Halloween. Back then, I just wanted to
go out and see a decent local band. It just
happened that Unatural was playing at the
Star then, too.
Unatural considers the North Star Bar
their home. It’s the first bar they book and
they are currently booked throughout
the summer. “They’ve been really good
to us,” said Bob. It’s also a given that the
North Star will be calling the band to book
throughout the end of the year. This year,
on December 31st, Unatural will play the
Star’s next party – New Year’s Eve. They
have been the North Star Bar’s New Year’s
Eve band for five of the last six years.
I’ve always said the North Star is the only
place to hear good music. When I talked to
Bob Schlief, he agreed saying, “[The Star]
is the only place to get real hard rock. Well,
I think of Striker’s as well. They’re really
comin’ around! It’s becoming a really cool
place to go.”
I just caught Unatural at Striker’s Corner
on the 21st of November. Everything, from
the blasting sound of the band to the crazy
large crowd, was pretty incredible. I missed
Unatural’s first set and some of their best
songs on Halloween, so I wanted to make
sure I got to Striker’s early. In the beginning,
Unatural exploded into Remedy, a cover of
the Seether song. I honestly have to say, I
think Unatural’s cover was better than the
original. Next came the old Cameo classic
Word Up. I’ve seen Unatural play this song
forever and I like the original, but I liked
Unatural’s hard rock version even more.
Then came Shout 2000, Unatural’s cover
of the Disturbed rocked-up cover originally
recorded by Tears For Fears from the 80’s.
Also, at some point in their first set, Unatural
performed their very own Generation X,
Papa Roach’s Last Resort and a wicked groove
of Black Sabbath’s War Pigs. Bob slammed
together in a grueling guitar free-style frenzy
with friend and co-guitarist Jamie ‘Bic’
Bicknese as bass player Scott ‘Scooter’ Kee
grabbed the lead singing spotlight. After all
of that within one set, I found myself wishing
I could hear all of it again and not being
able to wait to hear some of my upcoming
favorites. At the start of the second set, I
got totally adrenaline-fueled with Danzig’s
Mother, Seven Mary Three’s Cumbersome and
Godsmack’s Voodoo. After a few other songs,
something very odd happened. A cowboyhatted Bob went into some country ‘pickin’’
and a full-blown country song – what the...?!?
All right, I knew what was up. As the hoppedup audience persisted, the band just slightly
ignored their written play list. “We only do it
for one reason – the people want to hear it.
That’s the part where we give a little.” Plus the
fact that Bob was part of a country band for a
few years before Unatural. “I can sing country
pretty well and I’ve been known to play some
Garth Brooks at the North Star after a few
drinks, just for a shocker!” Bob exclaimed.
(That’s cool, Bob. Really!)
I took more than
30 photos of
Bob singing
‘what the
people like
to hear’
with that
hat on.
This was
the only
one that
almost worked!
Hmm?
In their last set, Unatural began with Saturday
Night’s Alright (For Fighting). Yep, the ‘all
right’ song by Elton John. What a surprise!
It not only was perhaps the best song of
the night, but one of the more memorable.
I think I remember hearing Unatural play
it before, but for some reason, this time it
kicked me in the head and left an impression.
With Slither by Velvet Revolver, Aerials by
System Of A Down, Down With The Sickness
by Disturbed and a few others, the play list
again went to the wayside. Because of that,
I think the show was one of their best. The
music was great, the band totally interacted
with the crowd, and everyone in the place had
a great time. Even some of the antics on stage
made me laugh.
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MY DEAL
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“We’d rather keep it intense – keep it rockin,”
said Bob, “But that’s not going to work for
us.” Well, that would work for me! The reason
I like to go see Unatural is because they play
what I want to hear. Every aforementioned
song is a song I want to hear. But again,
Unatural is a great cover band playing hard
rock songs everyone wants to hear.
To Bob, a cover band is actually a band of
“impressionists.” They have to do it the way
the original band did it, playing it as close
as possible to the recorded version. “We
shouldn’t stray from it any more than we
absolutely have to,” added Bob. And to go
even further, Unatural has just acquired a
sampler. “Now a days, you see a lot of bands
come in with samplers and put a lot of extra
stuff in their (music),” Bob explained. “We
have to compete with those bands.” Bob
assured me that they are only going to use
the ‘electric box’ to make sounds that they
are unable to get from their own musical
instruments. You won’t hear them create
loaded vocals or make songs they really
can’t sing. The sampler will enhance the
already good sound of the band, add certain
percussion instruments, and mimic such
songs like Tool’s Stinkfist. “I’ve done the
beginning part, but not the way every other
band does because we didn’t have a sampler,”
Bob stated. “[The sampler] just makes that
part simpler.”
Simple is fine, but I know that there’s some
kind of ‘musical ethic’ where ‘real’ musicians
don’t condone the use of synthesizers and
samplers. “Musically, I’m on the fence about
it,” admitted Bob. Well, I also remember Bob
telling me that Unatural needed to get with
the times. From the number of legitimate
local rock ‘n’ roll bands to their instruments
and how they make their music, music as a
whole has rapidly changed within the last
fifteen or even 10 years.
Bob then reminisced. Back in the day,
approximately ten years ago, he and Bic
began working on a few projects together.
At that time Bic was also involved with a
start up band with several other friends. Bic
encouraged Bob to come in and meet the
other band he was in, thinking that they
needed another guitar player. “I went over
and played... and it was like magic. We clicked
right off the bat,” Bob remarked. Shortly
thereafter, the group played at a party to
brush-up on things and then took several
other venues, as well.
With stereotypical rock band issues, the
original lead singer left to join another band
and the other members quit. The next day,
however, Bob’s phone rang. It was Bic and
the drummer at the time, Jamie Weisner,
telling Bob that they should get something
new started. Bob then called Scooter, an
experienced bass player who all of them
have always known. Scooter is the kind of
guy who joined a band and hit the road when
he was 18. After that one phone call, Scooter
learned all their songs and agreed to be part
of this musical metamorphosis. Finally, they
decided to practice. “I wasn’t actually the
singer, I was a guitar player,” continued Bob.
“I was just singing at practice until we found
[a lead] and that just didn’t happen.” Bob
always thought he could do it so he stepped
up to the mic. “I don’t think that anybody in
the band thought it was a good idea but then
we went on the road and had no problems at
all. So eight years down the road, we turned it
into what I do best and we’ve had some pretty
good success.”
After a 20 year musical career, Bob’s biggest
success has been with Unatural. With that
stated, Bob interjected, “I have always been a
A
guitar player. Always! Guitar player first,
singer second.” But don’t think the lead singer
deal isn’t too far from first. Last year, Bob was w
given an opportunity to front a band with a
national recording contract. He flew out to
Seattle for a try out, jammed with the lucky
group and flew back home. He was then
w
thrown an offer he had to refuse. “I couldn’t
do it,” said Bob regrettably. “I kinda got a life.
If the money was more... Plus, I really can’t
R
leave without my [band] brothers!” Bob didn’t
give me the name of the band, nor did I ask,
w
but he did specify that they are on tour in
the U.K. and had 200 gigs already posted and
ready to go.
••
••
Even though Bob passed on autographing
the dotted line and perhaps starvation,
Unatural has already played with some
prominent rockers. “The big highlights were
What’s up with the name?
Unnatural is spelled ‘unnatural.’ To me, two N’s seems odd, but whatever, unnatural is correct.
When I was thinking about questions to ask Bob, I was thinking of this one, “What’s up with the
name?” I was hoping he would say something clever, like “It’s unnatural to spell it Unatural.”
So, when I did ask him, he responded saying, “The bad thing (about the spelling) is a lot of
places we go misspell it on their billboards or in the newspapers because obviously when they
put it into a computer, it pops up wrong . A few times we’ve been called Unatural (you natural).
They still put it up there as one word but if it was on the radio or something, they would
say ‘You Natural, tonight!’ We’ve even been called the Unnaturals before. When the original
members of Unatural discussed a name, Dennis Thompson, the lead singer, wanted to be called
Unnatural Act. After hours of deliberation, Bob said, “Drop the act word and just call it Unatural.
It sounds fine. Just do it. You need to spell it like this because it’s unnatural to spell it that way!”
••
A
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December, 2007
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19
MY DEAL
(playing with) Skid Row and Vince Neil. Ratt
was pretty cool, too. All those guys are national
acts for a reason. I mean they’re really good
musicians.” Prying further, I wanted to know
just who was the coolest to work with. “The
guys from Skid Row were over the top nice
to us,” Bob answered. “They didn’t treat us
like – you know. They were there when we
played and watched us. They hung out with us
afterwards, too, which is cool!”
Bob then went into the extreme opposite. It
turned out that when Unatural played with
Vince Neil and his band, the experience wasn’t
so nice. “Vince Neil, that guy’s a jerk. His band
was mean to us and his road crew was mean
to us, too,” cut Bob. “‘Don’t stand here!’ ‘Don’t
get in our way!’ ‘Don’t play too long!’ ‘Don’t
play too loud!’ All this and that.” I guess the
washed up has-been actually is bigger than
his britches. Bob went on saying, “He’s not a
nice person. Vince is a jerk – and a midget!”
Smiling at what I was hearing, I had to ask Bob
a serious journalism question, “Can I quote
you?” “You certainly can!” Bob exclaimed. I
guess Mr. Neil is really around 5’ 4.” Bob told
me, as well as the whole Striker’s crowd, that
back to back with Scooter, Vince was only
that much taller. With an arm in the air, ‘that
much’ equaled about a half inch between Bob’s
thumb and forefinger.
After our dissing and joking, I wanted to get
to the future of Unatural. Bob then responded
with a thick jewel case. “I brought you a
gift.” With a serious ‘Ah, shucks’ expression,
I grabbed the 3-disc case from the table.
Thanking Bob, I checked out the front and
flipped to the back. Bob explained what was up
with the CD. I remembered seeing the cover
on Unatural’s MySpace page but I just thought
it was a pop-up or something. Race Track
Rock was produced by Versailles Records out
of Nashville. They are an independent label
working with a lot of good musicians so when
the company called Unatural, wanting them
to be on the compilation, Unatural’s Hostile
Ground became the first Rochester band with
a world-wide release. “This is Race Track Rock!
It just came out world-wide and we’re on it!”
(Dude, thanks again!)
think everyone’s intentions, are for a full
Unatural CD,” responded Bob. All right, then –
what if you become even more popular, maybe
nationally known? “Yeah, I think so.” said Bob.
“I don’t think anyone would turn it down.
Obviously, that’s your dream when you start.
30-something and life does change things, but
I don’t think anyone at this point is strapped
down to children or anything. We would (do
it) as a band. We’d definitely go together.
That would be the only way we would enter
into some slavery contract.”
While talking to Bob, he tried to explain to me,
with sincerity, the chemistry he feels within the
band and the place of Unatural in the amazing
current Rochester musical family. “So we finally
added the last guy (Steve Miller) and we’re
going, ‘That’s it!’ We discussed it. If one person
moves or dies, that’s it! Unatural is done! The
chemistry would get messed up. They definitely
do play together like the proverbial well-oiled
machine. And as far as the Rochester musical
family thing, every member makes a point to
mention ‘family.’ “I definitely want to say this,”
started Bob, “The bands in town, in the last ten
years, have become such a huge family and are
very close. When I was growing up... nobody
would even give you the time of day. There was
like three bands in town and you were shut
out. It was horrible! We were shunned. Now
a days, the only horrible thing is that we can’t
get together and have a good time because
someone’s always playing. I think that what
everybody’s doing now is cool. I love the music
scene now. It could be a lot better, but I think
we’ll get there.”
Whether Unatural is wanting to promote other
local bands or just wanting a break in the
show, they always invite any other members
from any other band to get on stage to jam
with them. “A lot of local bands come up to
me and ask, ‘How come you guys let us play
with you?’ We’re trying to promote them, too.
If the lead singer of Bakkus comes down and
we don’t get him up to play with us... that’s not
cool. I think overall, we’re gonna get people
into the (bars). I think that’s just part of it,”
Bob commented. Every time I recognize a
dude from another local band at an Unatural
show, he ends up on stage doing his thing with
the band. “Plus, it gives me a break for a couple
minutes,” added Bob.
Continuing on the future, but realistically, Bob
revealed his thoughts for himself as well as
Unatural. “I think the time has come... for us to
reinvent ourselves again. We constantly did the
steps... and we reached a plateau. I don’t know
if we are flatlining right now or going down?”
In my mind, if the guys keep playing new
music and playing their own music, all is
well. Bob still thought otherwise. He knows
that Unatural needs to push the show harder.
He did mention that they will be working on
new material and since he sent out a bunch of
e-mails asking the receiver ‘What Unatural can
do better?’ the response was for them to learn
new songs and create their own original songs.
Again, Unatural does what the audience wants,
so for sure the band will jump out of their
musical rut and the crowd will definitely be in
store for future great performances!
Race Track Rock: cduniverse.com or bestbuy.com
Both Hostile Ground and Generation X are
two original songs, written by Bob Schlief,
performed by Unatural, mastered and produced
by Brian ‘Byron’ Johnson, and recorded at
Gemini Studios in Faribault, MN. “We have
17 hours apiece in studio time in them,” Bob
explained. “It’s because we’re picky!.”
As far as any other produced material, the
guys have laid down some tracks with Bob’s
portable studio. “What if they come back and
want some new songs?” asked Bob rhetorically.
“We have some, but not a lot. So that’s
definitely in the picture.” And what about a full
album? “My intentions, and I
Rochester’s Unatural left to right: Jamie ‘Bic’ Bicknese, Bob Schlief, Scott ‘Scooter’ Kee, and Steve Miller
The Big Lead Singer
with Flames on His Pants!
I like fire. I have always loved hot rods and a decent
flame graphic on an old 50’s anything is crucial.
My dream cycle would have to have a little black
with realistic flames on it. Okay, maybe my dream
cycle would have to have a little black with old
school flames on it. Whatever – I just like flames!
So, other than a big guy singing hard rock and
sounding a bit like Gene Simmons, you gotta
love Bob Schlief and the flames on his pants.
Incidentally, he has several. “I have four different
pairs. I have the red and yellow ones, blue and
silver, totally silver, and the custom-made leather
ones,” Bob described. “All of the others are Levi’s
jeans with leather flames sewn on them. My first
pair cost me like 400 bucks. I had them made
at the Shoe Shop on Broadway. I brought in the
leather and I told them what I wanted and they
cut it out and sewed it up. I had my first pair
made, and then the second, and the third... now
I’m good. I can play a four-nighter and I don’t
have to wear the same pants.”
As long as I can remember, Bob’s been wearing
his signature pants. “I never play without them
– ever!” exclaimed Bob. When Bob and I talked
about this article’s photos, I wanted to make sure
he would be wearing my favorites, the red and
yellow. You can check out Unatural’s MySpace
page to see a few of the others in photos. “That’s
where the flames come in,” finished Bob. “ I met
(Marty Stuart) one time and he said ‘If I could
tell you the secret to success, I’ll tell you what
Elvis Presley told me. He said, “A superstar
should be recognizable by his shadow.’” It
doesn’t mean a lot about the shadow, but
you don’t have to cast that - that’s where the
flames come from. If I’m going to be a front
man – I’m gonna do that!”
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December, 2007
in 2005. The band
has opened for
B.B. King, just
returned from
a 3-week tour
in Florida and
will head to the
Virgin Islands
for a 2-week tour
this spring. Catch
them while you
can!
4 IMMEDIATE
Reverend Raven and His Chain Smoking
Altar Boys to Play at Whiskey Bones
Bringing crowds to their feet at bars and night clubs
throughout the Midwest, this hard-charging band
delivers traditional blues music with a big dose of
passion. Reverend Raven and his Chain Smoking
Altar Boys feature smoking grooves, paired with a
hot harmonica and stinging guitar.
This band plays original songs peppered with nods
to Slim Harpo, Little Walter, Jimmy Rogers, Billy
Boy Arnold, Junior Wells and the Three Kings.
On their play list are songs Here Comes My Baby,
Shake the Boogie, Bee Hive Baby, Slow Burn,
Creature of Habit and Steppin Out.
On guitar and vocals is Reverend Raven, who
has been playing the blues since 1971.
Since 1990 he’s opened for Gatemouth Brown,
Pinetop Perkins, Lonnie Brooks and Lefty Dizz,
among others. Rounding out the band are
Dwight Dario on drums, P.T. Pedersen on bass and
Steve Vonderharr on harmonica and vocals.
The Reverend was the Wisconsin Music Industry
award winner for best blues band in 1999, 2000
and 2004 and was nominated, for the sixth time,
olidays
Great December Events!
Two Terrific
Happy Hours!
Monday-Friday 3 p.m. - 6 p.m.
$2.00 Domestic Pints, $3.00 Import
Pints, $2.50 Rail Pours and $1.00 off
all Beer and Liquor excluding wine.
Friday & Saturday 9 p.m. - 11 p.m.
$2.00 Rail Pours and Captain Morgan
plus Select bottles and Pints!
Sundays: NFL Sunday Ticket!
••
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©2007 JIMMY JOHN’S FRANCHISE, LLC ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
EVENT INFORMATION:
Date: Thursday, December 27, 9 p.m.
Place: Whiskey Bone’s Roadhouse,
3820 Highway 63 N, Rochester
Phone: 507-287-8017
Web site: www.whiskeybonesroadhouse.com
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Friday, December 7th
Thursday, December 20th
DJ Brotha Jules
The Johnny Holm Band
From B-96 in Minneapolis 10 p.m.
$5.00 Cover at the door
Show Begins at 9:45 p.m.
$10.00 Cover at the door
••
We’re Open Christmas Eve, December 24th
11 a.m. - 8 p.m.
CHRISTMAS DAY BUFFET
10:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
December 31st:
NEW YEAR’S EVE BASH
Regular Menu from
2:30 p.m. - 10 p.m.
Bar Open All Day!
DJ at 10 p.m.
Party Favors and Fun!
Free Champagne at Midnight!
1205515537EM
1205515535P
••
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••
••
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Page 21
December, 2007
4 IMMEDIATE
••
••
He mixes up his shows by including mellow
cover songs from Dave Matthews, Radio Head
and Howie Day. A one-man performer, he gives
his voice a break by using a looping pedal for
jam sessions.
Rochester Native Returns to Sontes
During his senior year at Mayo High school,
Micah Wetzel picked up a guitar. That set a
musical career into motion, one the now college student hopes to pursue more actively after
graduating from South Dakota State University.
Between his shows and giving guitar lessons,
Wetzel says he’s “making money with my
guitar, which is what I wanted to do.”
“I started playing guitar and figured out I could
sing,” Wetzel said. “I learned some covers and
figured I should learn how to write, so I put
some chords together.”
EVENT INFORMATION:
Date: Friday and Saturday
December 21-22, 8 p.m.
Place: Sontes (4 3rd St. SW)
Phone: 507-292-1628
Web site: www.micahwetzel.com
For now, Wetzel is a music and business major
who hits the road on weekends to play gigs.
He appears at Sontes, Rochester’s downtown
tapas restaurant, Dec. 21-22 to feature songs
from two CDs.
Roscoe’s Award Winning BBQ
“Best Ribs”
••
••
21
EXPOSED
Wetzel describes his original music as captivating and heartwarming. CDs “Tomorrow’s
Yesterdays” and “Familiarity & Uncommon
Ground” showcase songs including, “Road
Lonely” and “Every Little Thing.” Wetzel’s
songs area mix of pop, rock and folk featuring
simple choruses.
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With the purchase of $100 worth of Gift Certificates
DECEMBER 8
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Offer Good With This Ad Only • Expires 12/31/07
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DECEMBER 15
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SHIP OF FOOLZ - NO COVER
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DECEMBER 21 & 22
Orders can be picked up at our
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4180 18th Ave. NW
Rochester, MN 55901
(507) 281-4622
FELIX DEROW - NO COVER
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••
12/5/07
DECEMBER 27
DEUCES WILD PIANOS
DECEMBER 29
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NEW YEARS EVE
ROOM FOR GRAY
WITH SPECIAL GUEST
LET US HOST YOUR OFFICE OR CHRISTMAS PARTY.
NO PARTY IS TOO BIG OR SMALL!
1517 16th St. SW • 252-5161
1205515579P
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December, 2007
Who:
••
JUST ASKING
ing with
Renee Berg talk
IRA e troupe)
H HAW
IG
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L
&
E
R
n danc
O
lia
ra
O
DAVE M
n Under, an Aust
ow
D
om
Fr
r
de
un
with Th
clad in
se, the guys are ke the
u
o
h
ad
o
R
s
e’
n
o
ey ta
key B
A booth at Whis and hats. It’s minutes before th
ts
jeans, sweatshir st all.
o
stage to bare alm
Location:
E: How old are you and where do you live?
D: I’m 26, I live out of my suitcase.
L: I’m 28 and I’m based in Vegas (where a
Thunder group performs year-round).
E: What kind of job did you have before
joining the Thunder?
D: I trained horses with my father.
L: I’ve been in the entertainment industry
for the last six, seven years, doing
dancing, modeling, promotions.
E: How did you land your spot among the
troupe?
D: I did a TV reality show in Australia 5
years ago called “Strip Search,” a few episodes were shown in the U.S.
L: Mine was on a vacation to Las Vegas. I
already knew one of the boys in the group
and he picked me up from the airport and
said, ‘You’re going on stage tonight, you can
do a few moves.’ They got me a track suit
and threw me in. It was a rush.
E: What role do you play in the group? Do
you wear any costumes?
D: Everyone has their own fantasy. I’m a
pirate
L: I’m the disco funk street dancer. I’m the
b-boy. I break dance.
E: How do you stay so buff?
L: Eat well.
D: It’s all about diet because it’s hard to get
to gyms. It’s hard to work out when you’re
on the road.
L: Yeah, it’s easier to work out if you’re
living in Vegas.
E: Are there any Thunder rules or guidelines for maintaining your physique?
L: As long as you’ve got a six-pack you’re
fine. If you don’t have a six-pack you’re in
trouble.
E: Do you have a significant other? If so,
how does she/he feel about your job?
Dave Moore
D: No.
L: I do. She thinks it’s funny, she enjoys it.
E: Why do you think the Thunder is so
popular with the ladies?
E: You don’t do a Full Monty during these
shows, correct?
D: We keep it real. That’s the bottom line,
we have a good time.
L: No Full Monty.
L: We’re the guy next door, that’s why it’s
popular. Women want to have a Ladies’
Night Out and see a bit of skin. And they
like the accents. (All of the Thunder performers are Australian.)
E: Would you be willing to go nude if
work demanded it?
E: Do fans give you any items during your
shows?
E: What type of work do you envision doing when you’re done with this?
D: Usually a big bra comes up.
L: And usually it’s from a small person. You
wonder where that came from.
L: Event management. That’s what I was
doing back home, and choreographing
shows. I’d like to open my own dance
school.
E: Is the stereotype true -- do you party a
lot, go out on loads of dates?
D: We like to go out but don’t have much
time.
L: The option is there, we just don’t do it
much. It ain’t easy being a rock star.
D: No.
L: If someone could afford it.
D: I’d probably go back into racing. Horse
racing or breeding, training horses or purchasing or selling thoroughbreds.
••
••
••
••
E: How about the stereotype that dancers
aren’t all that, how shall we say, bright?
D: That’s not true. Everyone has different
backgrounds and education.
E: David, it’s reported that you’re fluent
in French. What would you whisper into a
woman’s ear if given the chance?
••
D: That was a long time ago, when I did
the bio (for the web site).
E: What are your hobbies outside of work?
L: There’s Texas Hold ‘Em in our group.
D: There’s no time on the road, this tour
is full on. My Playstation Portable is my
hobby right now.
••
E: Where have you traveled as part of the
Thunder From Down Under?
D: I’ve been to 17 countries. We just did
Canada and a U.S. tour.
Leigh and Dave performed with the Thunder Nov. 18 at Whiskey Bone’s Roadhouse. To catch
up with them elsewhere, check their web site, www.thunderfromdownunder.com, for information. Or head to Vegas, where a group performs at the Excalibur Hotel and Casino.
Leigh Hawira
(performers
••
EXPO_00_12_05_OLIVE
2:48 PM
Page 23
December, 2007
from
••
••
••
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••
••
23
TOP
TATTOOS
••
SOUTH
H
NORTH
12/08 - James Thomas (Acoustic Rock) 9 PM
12/13 - Ben Olsen (Acoustic Rock) 8 PM
12/31 - New Years Eve: Innocent Reggae Band
(Reggae) 9 PM
415 South Broadway
Rochester, MN
[email protected]
1205514537P
••
EXPOSED
12/14 - Annie Lawler (Classic Rock) 9 PM
12/15 - Juke Box Heroes (Classic Rock) 9 PM
12/20 - Ben Olsen (Acoustic) 8 PM
12/28 - Bruce Bungum Band (Classic Rock) 9 PM
12/31 - New Years Eve: Juke Box Heroes
(Classic Rock) 9 PM
Whistle B
Binkies
Olde World
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don’t miss out on the fun at the north star bar
12/07 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- GEL
12/08 -------------- Black Valentine
Vale
12/14 ------------------------------- GEMINI
12/15 --------------------------------------- STIR
12/21 & 22 -------------------- Unatural
12/28 ------------------ Slow Children
12/29 ------------------------------- Rockfist
12/31 ------------------------------ Unatural
1/04 & 05 ------ Next 2 Nothing
1/12 -------HAIRBALL ($5 cover)
music from 9:30 p.m. - 1:30 a.m.
HAPPY HOURS
$2 beer/drinks
mon.-thurs., 3-6 p.m. & 8-10 p.m.
friday 3-6 p.m. & 8-9 p.m.
saturday 8-9 p.m.
FRIDAY & SATURDAY
50¢ tap beer
9-10 p.m.
SUNDAY
free chili & hot dogs
during Vikings game
MONDAY
$1 bottled beer
different every week
The North Star Bar
503 North Broadway • Rochester, MN • 507-289-1091
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1205514536P
1205515626P
••
12/5/07
EXPO_00_12_05_OLIVE
EXPOSED
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Page 24
December, 2007
••
••
LIVE MUSIC!
December 6: Parri & Carey
December 7: Studebaker John
December 8: Plan B
December 13: GB Leighton
December 14: Maxx Cabello Jr
December 15: New Primitives
December 20: Long Shot
December 21: Trouble Shooter
December 22: Orange Whip
December 26: 32 Below
December 27: Reverend Raven
December 28: The Rhythm Junkies
December 29: T/N/T & Aultimate Ozzy
(ACDC Meets Ozzy Osbourne)
January 4: Absolute Gruv
January 5: Brides, Bridesmaid
& Prom Dress Party
••
••
with Weekly Prizes
9 p.m. or 10 p.m.
1st - $100 Cash
2nd - $30 Bar Tab
3rd - $20 Bar Tab
T
Tue.
Poker Night
Karaoke
raok Contest
Tournament Prizes
with
w
iith
th Wee
Week
Weekly
ekly Prizes
1st - Trip for 2 to Vegas
(3 days & 2 Nights)
2nd - 6 Person Limo Ride
3rd - $50 Bar Tab &
Whiskey Bones Windbreaker
1st - $$50
5 Cash
L
AL ERS E
G M
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2nd - $2
$25
25 Ba
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Wed.
WHISKEY BONE’S WEEKLY EVENTS
Mon.
Loving Fun
Lingerie
Give Aways
SIGN UP FOR
BEER PONG
Chateau
Movie Tickets
Give Aways
EVERY SUNDAY
& WEDNESDAY
NIGHT AT 8 PM
••
NIGHTLY DRINK SPECIALS
Sun.
Happy
Hour
All
Day
Long
Mon.
Tue.
Kegger
Night
You
Call It
$2.75
Liquor
$8.00
All The Keg
Beer You Want
8 p.m. to 1 a.m.
9 p.m. to close
Wed.
Thu.
Fri.
Sat.
Buck
Night,
20 Oz.
Keg Beer
Happy
Hour
Happy
Hour
••
Keg Beer
& Wells
$2.00
2
ARGE
••
8 p.m. to 1 a.m.
Shots of Schnops
$1.00
9 to 11 p.m.
Happy Hour 7 Days a Week!
Live DJ
11:00 p.m.
to 2:00 a.m.
L
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BARS
16 oz. taps - $1.50 • 16 oz. prem. taps - $2.50 • Wells - $1.75 • Callss (Captain) - $2.50 • Wine - $2.00
HOURS: Monday-Friday 1:00 p.m.-2:00 a.m.,
Saturday & Sunday 11:00 a.m.-2:00 a.m.
3820 Hwy. 63 North • Rochester, MN • 507-287-8017
For complete listing of upcoming bands, go to www.whiskeybonesroadhouse.com
1205515532P
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12/5/07
••