ARTS Pick: Bad Suns

Calling this So-Cal quintet a novice band undercuts a confident sound that is  anything but unsure of itself. Formed in 2012, Bad Suns has quickly established itself among today’s indie-rock up-and-coming. The group’s statement on “Salt” recalls the careening music of the 80’s alternative scene—drooping vocals and chugging rhythmic patterns that paint shades of Depeche […]

Could tragedy and scandal bring consensus in Richmond?

Virginia’s General Assembly has descended on Richmond for the annual legislative session, and with 60 days to come up with the state’s biennial budget, local legislators seem optimistic that this year won’t be as contentious as 2004, when it took an extra 100 days to pass a budget—and it won’t reflect the gridlock in Congress […]

What’s happening in Charlottesville-Albemarle the week of January 13?

Each week, the news team takes a look at upcoming meetings and events in Charlottesville and Albemarle we think you should know about. Consider it a look into our datebook, and be sure to share newsworthy happenings in the comments section. The launch of the Piedmont Cultural Alliance’s new cultural plan—the first ever for the area—takes […]

ARTS Pick: Cate Le Bon

The title of singer Cate Le Bon’s latest release, Mug Museum, conveys a simple whimsy, along with the special offer of a handcrafted mug accessory, but fans know of the brooding complexity that lies beneath its quirky exterior. Often compared to the dark folk songstress Nico, Le Bon’s music is moody, captivating, and infused with […]

ARTS Pick: Boxwave

The Richmond-based rock duo Boxwave features John Mustachio on bass and Brad Ellsworth on percussion in a minimal act that strives to invigorate the often ignored rhythm section. Spartan and unassuming, Ellsworth provides enthusiastic backing to Mustachio’s gritty playing in a guerrilla rock attack that fuses funk and jazz into extravagant, melodic flights. The pair appears […]

ARTS Pick: VSA Charlottesville/Albemarle 14th Annual Art Show

Get inspired by the work of over 100 artists promoting creative power in people with disabilities at the VSA Charlottesville/Albemarle 14th Annual Art Show. Artists including Chris Wharam, Romney Brand, Rosemary Ballister, John T. Trippel, Margaret Lee, Anne Denit, Justin Connor, and William Greenough will display and discuss the development of their artistic vision. Pieces […]

ARTS Pick: The Whigs

Formed in Athens, Georgia in 2002, The Whigs have grown into a seasoned rock band. While teething, the group played with rock stalwarts Kings of Leon and The Black Keys before maturing a sound that is explosive and heavy, but not without infectious hooks. The Whigs’ newest album, Enjoy the Company, plays around with a […]

What’s happening in Charlottesville-Albemarle the week of January 6?

Each week, the news team takes a look at upcoming meetings and events in Charlottesville and Albemarle we think you should know about. Consider it a look into our datebook, and be sure to share newsworthy happenings in the comments section. The Charlottesville City Council‘s first meeting of 2014 takes place at 7pm tonight, Monday, […]

ARTS Pick: Falstaff

Brilliant orchestration and dastardly deception punctuate Verdi’s Falstaff, the seminal composer’s final opera. The action streams live in HD and stars Ambrogio Maestri as the fabulous fat knight Sir John Falstaff from Shakespeare’s Henry IV and The Merry Wives of Windsor in the Met’s first new production of the piece in nearly 50 years. Wealthy […]

ARTS Pick: Blacko Da Rappa

Dig into your closet for your best throwback attire, and rehearse your Fresh Prince rap. Magnus Music and Wild Boyz Entertainment kick off 2014 with a hip-hop and go-go celebration of local musician Blacko Da Rappa’s 32nd birthday. A cash prize will be awarded to the best retro look, so don’t be afraid to get […]