Bella birthday: Italian staple tavola welcomes new kitchen staff

Was it a reason for tavola regulars to celebrate or cry in their Montepulciano? Sure, they were gathered for a night at one of their favorite restaurants in town. Definitely a plus. But the reason for the occasion was the introduction of an all-new kitchen staff at the Belmont eatery. Would the new kids be […]

In transition: Teen queen Kate Voegele explores her mature side

Kate Voegele was miscast—quite literally. Voegele’s career hit the fast track in 2005 when she gained a strong following on the social media site MySpace. That same year, MySpace and Interscope Records teamed up to create MySpace Records, and Voegele became one of the label’s earliest signees. She released her first major label-backed full-length record […]

Kevin Barnes fronts of Montreal with dramatic flair

Of Montreal’s Kevin Barnes is officially off the grid. After two weeks and about a half dozen phone calls, the only response I could get from the avant garde indie rocker was his odd outgoing voicemail message—an eerie instrumental tune—and apologies from his publicist that he had “no service at the place he is staying.” […]

New craft beverage maker breaks the mold on 151

Christine Riggleman wanted to start a business on her family’s land off Route 151. An avid home cook, she figured it would make sense to open a restaurant. She wanted to complement the craft breweries and cideries already flowing up and down the highway. But she had friends in restaurants who advised against going into […]

Seattle folk rock up-and-comers have roots in old Virginia

The Head and the Heart have the holy grail of indie rock band success: One good male singer, one good female singer. It’s a combination, along with a well-timed whistle or catchy chant, that has made Peter Bjorn and John, Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros, Gotye, and a handful of others huge overnight sensations […]