Pulse Magazine - June 2014

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Summer Skin June 2014

IN THIS ISSUE tHE COVER story

6

Hot times in the Woo

ENTERTAINMENt

Worcester native shoots for Stardom 12

Neon Trees ~ Pop Psychology

19 GAME ON

Dragonball Z:

Battle of Z expands

DBZ universe 19 Artist Profile:

Bobby Hogan

& Sugar Creek 20 Club, Pub &

Bar Listings

13 Pulsebooks

Two great reads to start 22 Pulse Shots

the summer

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Local talent

show gets reckless

15 UP & COMERS

Jet Black Sunrise

brings its love of ’90s

to the big stage 18

ON CD

John Wesley ~ Disconnect

Mushroomhead ~ The Righteous & The Butterfly

27 Everyday Science

Robots get musical

DINING & ENTERTAINING

30 DINING review

ups its game

Mezcal

at new location

31 HOT AND NOW 32 PulseBREW:

Check out the cans!

Online @ thepulsemag. com Entertainment

Health &

THEATER: Wild and Precious marks marriage equality

Fitness

34 Half marathon,

whole heart: Festival, runners

return to city

style & Beauty

HAIR: Tips for healthy hair SKIN: Control summer shine BATH: Go LUSH for the summer BEAUTY: Summer scents

Art & Culture

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Musical brings back ’90s movie ~ with a twist

Style & Beauty

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Summer Skin

Get your feet ready for summer

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LIFESTYLE

SHOP: Gifts for Father’s Day HEALTH: Spot skin cancer

MORE ONLINE!

Follow us on Twitter @ WorcesterPulse and like us on Facebook at facebook.com/ thepulsemagazine.

The Style List: Top summer fashion faux pas

PULSE Magazine is produced 12 times a year by Pagio Inc., 88 Winter St., Worcester, MA 01604. (508) 756-5006. Copyright 2012 All rights reserved. Pagio, Inc. does not hold itself responsible for statements made by any contributor. Statements or opinions expressed in Pulse reflect the views of the author(s) and not the official policy of the Pagio, Inc., unless so stated. Although all advertising material is expected to conform to ethical standards, acceptance does not imply endorsement by Pagio, Inc. unless so stated. Material printed in Pulse is covered by copyright. No copyright is claimed to any work of the U.S. government. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form without written permission. For information on permissions, reprints and other services, contact Pagio, Inc.

Paul Giorgio, Publisher Donna Roberson, Editor Justin Perry, Art Director, Photographer Chris Reddy, Kerry Cyganiewicz, Vanessa Herbold, Christy Rafferty Account Executives Kim Dunbar, Sports Editor Alex Kantarelis, Music Editor Jennifer Russo, Lifestyle Editor

Kimberly Dunbar, Erin Cornell, Alex Kantarelis, Jennifer Russo, Jason Savio, Bernie Whitmore, Michael Wood, Paul Giorgio, R.J. Linton, Stacia Kindler, Kevin Swenson, Brianna MacMillan, Kerry Cyganiewicz Writers

June 2014 | THEPULSEMAG.COM 5

COVER STORY

Hot times in the Woo

By Erin Cornell

It’s summer, and that means the sun is out, but what about you? After being cooped up all winter, it’s time to take advantage of all the great things Central Massachusetts has to offer this season. Whether you enjoy experiencing new cultures, trying a new dish, listening to great music or appreciating artistic talent, there’s something for everyone in the area. Go exploring, and make this summer one to remember!

Photo: Friends gather at the Flying Rhino during the Taste of Shrewsbury Street

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Celebrate Good Times African American Juneteenth Festival Experience the richness and vastness of the African American community at the 14th annual African American Juneteenth Festival. You’ll get a sense of just how vibrant this heritage is while enjoying live music from the islands, as well as North, South and Central America, and sampling Southern, Caribbean and African cuisine.

Entertainment includes an African American history tent, children’s tent and performers, as well as vendors of handmade jewelry, Afro-centric art and clothing, books and homemade oils.

For those interested in learning more about the history of the culture, the African American History Interactive Workshop, presented by Joel Mackall of Reldren Business Group, is sure to please.

Head on over to Institute Park on June 28 with your blankets and lawn chairs for a celebration you’ll never forget.

2-6 p.m. Saturday, June 28, at Institute Park, Salisbury Street, Worcester. Free.

Juneteenthfestival.org.

Asian Festival Hosted by the Southeast Asian Coalition, the Asian Festival is back again for its 11th year Sunday, June 29. This cultural event is sure to be fun for the whole family, with dance performances, costumes, music, food and games, all celebrating the Asian heritage. “Worcester is a great city, with a variety of Asian cultures, and here at the festival, you get to see the entire Asian community together, learn a bit about their culture, while enjoying the food and performances. There is a togetherness during the festival, which is pretty special,” said Nam Nguyen, of the coalition. What better way to spend a summer afternoon than to come together in celebration of community, culture and fun?

Noon-7 p.m. Sunday, June 29, at the ItalianAmerican Cultural Center, 28 Mulberry St., Worcester. Free. Seacma.org.

Latin American Festival Celebrate Latin American culture Aug. 16 with a free outdoor festival presented by Centro Las Americas. The festival will feature traditional live Latin music and cuisine. Festival Coordinator Dolly Vazquez said people should take advantage of this exciting “chance to taste, hear and feel the Latino culture in the center of Worcester in a family-oriented environment.” She said the best part of the festival is by far the music, so you know you’re in for a treat. Information tables set up on the common contribute to the sense of community and offer an opportunity to learn more about all of the services available in the city. A beer garden and children’s tent of crafts (sponsored by the Worcester Art Museum) add to the list of fun activities you definitely won’t want to miss!

Noon-9 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 16, at the City Hall area of Worcester. Free. Worcesterlatinfestival. com.

Worcester Caribbean Carnival After its successful debut in 2013, this festival is back for its second year. Hosted by the Worcester American Caribbean Carnival Association, the event will include a parade from Foley Stadium to Institute Park, with floats playing music for dancing and masqueraders donning costumes of feathers, beading and bright, vibrant colors.

Jennifer Gaskin, president of the association, said, “It’s all-ages, family-friendly and offers the opportunity to see something from a different culture they may never have been exposed to if they’ve never been to the Caribbean.”

Caribbean and Afro-centric food, as well as vendors of jewelry, clothing and other items ~ some specific to the Caribbean and some not ~ add to the cultural displays offered. Live music from New England band Tropical Fire, as well as other special guests, gives spectators a taste of Caribbean heritage. If you love some friendly competition, you’ll enjoy watching judges award Best Costume and Band of the Year.

Vendors open at noon; parade starts at 1:30 p.m.

Sunday, Aug. 24, from Chandler St. to Park Ave., Worcester. Free. Worcestercarib.com/Home_ Page.php.

food for thought Big Dipper All-You-Can-Eat Ice Cream Festival Head down to Elm Park on June 28 for an afternoon dedicated to savoring delicious ice cream flavors. Hosted by Children’s Friend, the oldest child and family service agency in Central Massachusetts, this festival is not only fun but also philanthropic. All of the proceeds are donated to improving its critical service programs. Expect to enjoy games, raffles, music, clowns, balloons, face-painting and more. Debby Huegel, director of marketing and events at the agency, said, “For a great day out in beautiful Elm Park ~ whether you’re 9 months or 90, there is something for everyone. … Every dollar you spend at the Big Dipper, in turn, helps children and families experience better lives.”

Latin American Festival

10:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Saturday, June 28, at Elm Park, 284 Highland St., Worcester. $5 for ages 10 and older, $1 for ages 4–9 and free for children 3 and younger. Childrensfriend.org/?page_id=1289.

Taste of Shrewsbury Street Looking for a new favorite restaurant? On June 17, you’ll have the opportunity to sample food and drinks from more than 30 participating restaurants and pubs on Shrewsbury Street. Sponsored by the Shrewsbury Street Merchants Association, a $25 button gives you access to sample dishes

Big Dippe

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Festival

June 2014 | THEPULSEMAG.COM 7

from each of the participating restaurants.

The variety and quality are unbeatable, and even better, the proceeds benefit the continued beautification of the locale, as well as children’s charities in the area. Entertainment and arts and crafts presented by local vendors add to the vibrant ambience. Be a part of the unofficial kickoff of summer at Worcester’s biggest block party.

5-9 p.m. Tuesday, June 17. $25 for a button, available from participating restaurants and at Shrewsburystreet.com.

Facebook.com/TasteOfShrewsburyStreet/info.

The Worcester Food Truck Festival Food Truck Festivals of New England will roll into Worcester on June 21! The festival will feature more than 20 popular New England food trucks, including the Bacon Truck, Boston’s Baddest Burger, the Happy Taco, Mei Mei Street Kitchen, Frozen Hoagies and more. Your taste buds will go into overdrive with options ranging from local seafood, barbecue and duck tacos to cupcakes and whoopee pies. Festival producer and Senior Vice President Janet Prensky said, “We find that people are just so surprised and pleased to discover what fantastic food is created by the chefs at our food trucks. It’s not just grilled cheese; it’s grilled fontina with short rib on pressed sourdough. It’s not just an Asian salad; it’s soba noodles with bean sprouts, carrots, chicken and cilantro in an amazing sauce. The Worcester Food Truck Festival is all about the food … as it should be!” The fun doesn’t stop there, as the event will also feature live music, prizes, a beer tent, children’s activities and ~ new this year ~ a handmade arts market.

Worcester Food Truck Festival

11 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, June 21, at Elm Park, 284 Highland St., Worcester. $5 (cash only) for ages 13 and older, free for children 12 and younger. Facebook. com/TasteOfShrewsburyStreet/info.

Worcester Restaurant Week The summer edition of Worcester Restaurant Week returns the first two weeks of August with more great food at one low price. Food-lovers can experience the fine dining of some of the best local restaurants for only $23.14 a person, so take advantage! As an added bonus, some establishments will even offer a special chef’s menu. Whatever tickles your taste buds ~ be it Italian, Asian, Mexican, seafood or grill ~ you can be sure to find it at a participating restaurant.

Aug. 4-16 at participating Worcester restaurants. Three-course meal for $23.14.

Facebook.com/worcesterrestaurantweek.

Play that Funky Music Indian Ranch Summer Concert Series Back for its 68th concert season, Indian Ranch will host about 20 exciting concerts and events this summer. Suzette Raun, president at Indian Ranch, said, “It is a truly unique and special place to attend a concert, offering music-lovers a chance to see some of the greatest country, roots rock, classic rock and pop bands just a few steps from Chaubunagungamaug (Webster Lake). Nestled between pine trees, the amphitheater is very intimate, offering the ability to see the stage from anywhere in the audience.” George Thorogood and the Destroyers open the series June 22 and other scheduled performers include Jamey Johnson, Barenaked Ladies, Happy Together Tour, The Mavericks, The Marshall Tucker Band, Thompson Square, Bret Michaels and The Charlie Daniels Band. Other notable shows you won’t want to miss include Blues at the Beach on July 13, as well as the annual Indian Ranch Brewfest on Aug. 16.

Days, times and ticket prices vary throughout June, July and August. 200 Gore Road, Webster. Indianranch.com.

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The Charlie Daniels Band in concert at IndianRanch

Out to Lunch Summer Concert Series If local music is your thing, you have to check out the sixth annual Out to Lunch Summer Concert Series, held Thursdays, June-August. Featuring live entertainment from New England bands ~ including up-and-coming talent from right here in Worcester ~ as well as a farmers market, craft displays and a variety of food from local restaurants and vendors, this event can’t be beat. “Out to Lunch is a creative spark in the everyday work week. … Worcester is fortunate to have city leadership working with cultural organizations, artists and the business community to bring the city to life with great music, dance and art,” said Erin Williams, cultural development officer of the Worcester Cultural Coalition. Head over to the Worcester Common for the perfect outdoor setting to enjoy great music and fun downtown this summer!

Out To Lunch Concert Series

Noon-2 p.m., vendors open at 11 a.m. Thursdays from June 19-Aug. 21 on the Worcester Common Oval, 455 Main St., Worcester. Free. Facebook.com/ OutToLunchConcertSeries.

MusicFest at Wachusett Mountain Voted Best Local Music Festival at the 2013 and 2014 Worcester Music Awards, the 16th annual MusicFest at Wachusett Mountain is an event you don’t want to miss. Two stages of the best national, regional and local music, along with a mountainside barbecue, food stations, beer festival, local craft vendors and a classic and muscle car show, make this a one-of-a-kind summer festival. You can even take a scenic skyride up to the mountain summit. Bands on the main stage this year include Badfish, A Tribute to Sublime, Strange Machines, Air Traffic Controller, as well as Ashley Jordan and Andy Cummings on the side stage.

12-6 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 7, at Wachusett Mountain, 400 Mountain Road, Princeton. $20-$37 for adults, $4-$22 for children 6-12. Festival package admission also available.

Wachusett.com/EventsActivities/CalendarofEvents/MusicFest/tabid/118/Default.aspx.

Paulie’s New Orleans Jazz n’ Blues Festival Back by popular demand, Paulie’s New Orleans Jazz n’ Blues Festival will be in the Canal District for the first time. This festival is all about the music, incorporating the sounds of live Louisiana zydeco, blues, jazz, funk and rock n’ roll. “Support live music in Worcester before it disappears,” said festival founder and organizer Paul Collyer himself. Iconic New Orleans band George Porter Jr. & The Runnin’ Pardners, Big Chief Juan Pardo & The Golden Commanche Mardi Gras Indians, Little Freddie King, Roomful of Blues and Mem Shannon & The Membership are just a few of the acts lined up. Traditional food, including jambalaya, gumbo and alligator sausage, and refreshments from Harpoon Brewery afford an all-around southern vibe. The festival will wrap up with the Pauliestock 5K on Sunday.

7 p.m.-midnight Friday, June 20; noon-midnight Saturday, June 21, noon-9:30 p.m.

Sunday, June 22, in the Canal District, 152 Green St., Worcester. $15-$65. baevents.com/ pauliesnolabluesandjazzfestival/index.html.

Paulie’s New Orleans Jazz n’ Blues Festival

June 2014 | THEPULSEMAG.COM 9

Shrewsbury Street Walk & Rock Enjoy a variety of live music and great food on Shrewsbury Street on selected Thursday evenings in July. With 10 venues, this free event allows you to connect with local music and cuisine for one great evening. Walk Shrewsbury Street and catch local bands playing live at area restaurants.

7p.m. Thursday, July 17, and Tuesday, July 24, on Shrewsbury Street. Free.

Shrewsburystreet.org/walkrock.htm.

How Great Thou art Fitchburg Art Museum Regional Exhibition of Art and Craft One of the oldest juried exhibitions of its kind in New England, this annual summer tradition celebrates its 79th year bringing together the best artists and crafters in the region. If you are an art enthusiast, spend a day enjoying the works of nearly 80 local artists.

Eugene Finney, director of marketing and community relations at FAM, said, “Our region is filled with high-quality and professional artists and crafters, and some of them are your neighbors. Not many museums are still dedicated to the artists and crafters of their particular region, but the Fitchburg Art Museum is, and that is just one of the many reasons that we set the bar high for other community museums.”

Opening reception is 1-3 p.m. June 22. Exhibition runs through Aug. 31 at the Fitchburg Art Museum, 25 Merriam Parkway, Fitchburg. $9 for adults, $5 for seniors, $5 for ages 13-18 and college students and free for members, children 12 and younger and other select groups.

Fitchburgartmuseum.org/UpcomingExhibitions.php.

Hot Night in the City Worcester Center for Crafts’ Hot Night in the City returns July 9 with new partners and new sources of fun! Park Spirit will provide a zydeco band; Broadmeadow Brook will collaborate in the opening of a new photography exhibition; Wachusett Brewery will do a beer-tasting; and Woodberry and a surprise guest food truck will sell tasty treats. Music, food and entertainment are only the half of it, as the event will also be showcasing its craft disciplines such as glass-blowing, ceramics (including rake firing on the patio), enameling and metalsmithing.

Honee Hess, executive director of the center, said, “It gives us a chance to

turn the Worcester Center for Crafts inside out and let people enjoy our ‘hot’ processes under the night sky!”

6:30-9:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 9, at the Worcester Center for Crafts, 25 Sagamore Road, Worcester. Free.

Worcestercraftcenter.org.

Art + Market This year, the Worcester Art Museum will offer an art and farmers’ market sure to brighten your summer Saturdays.

Experience a diversity of fresh produce, inspiring art, art-making activities and live music as you engage in activities offered by cultural and community partners. Bringing together artisans, farmers and the community at large, you can find fresh foods from nearby farms and even meet the people who grow your meal. As Victoria Hall, public events coordinator at WAM, explained, “Art + Market will enhance current programs and exhibits at the museum by engaging visitors in a new and exciting way.”

What better way to reinvest in the local community while enjoying the museum’s collection and exhibitions!

10 a.m.-2 p.m. every Saturday from July 12-Sept.20 at the Trinity Lutheran Church Lot, 73 Lancaster St., Worcester.

Free. Worcesterart.org/Events/ art+market.

Third Thursdays on the Common Hot Night in the City

Movies on the Common just got that much better. Back for its fourth year, under collaboration between Worcester Film Works and Las Mariposas Productions, the series has been expanded into Third Thursdays on the Common. As in the past, three free movie nights will be held on the third Thursday of each summer month, and new this year will be a food truck park and beer and wine garden. Located downtown at the historic Worcester Common, the entire park, from the City Hall Plaza to the common’s green space, will buzz with cultural activity.

Victoria Hall, CEO and event producer for Las Mariposas Productions, said, “Families, adults and people of all ages will find something attractive about this summer event. … We want to make sure that everyone, from city residents to surrounding communities, enjoy themselves every third Thursday of the summer and can count on having a great time in the downtown.”

Begins at 6 p.m. for food and music; movie begins at sundown. Thursday, June 19; Thursday, July 17; and Thursday, Aug. 21; on the Worcester Common Oval, 455 Main St., Worcester.

Free. Worcesterfilmworks.org.

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Movies on the Common

June 2014 | THEPULSEMAG.COM 11

Entertainment

Worcester native shoots for Stardom

By Mike Wood

There are many pop divas we know by a singular name: Beyoncé, Mariah, Madonna … even Miley no longer needs the Cyrus to be recognized. Now, we’ve got a pop and hip-hop star in the making, right in our own backyard.

She’s breaking down barriers and singing about self empowerment for a whole new generation of young women, and she wants everyone ~ including the world beyond Worcester ~ to know her name. Ladies and gentlemen, meet Geli.

Angelica “Geli” Santos’ stage name is not just a shortened form of Angelica, as many assume. Geli can be credited to her grandmother, who nicknamed her Jelly Bean when she was born a 2-pound, 2 ounce premature baby.

“I was so tiny that she called me her jelly bean, and from then on, everyone called me Jelly or Jelly Bean. So when it came down to figuring out what my stage name was going to be, I never thought of using Geli until my manager suggested it. It was in my name, and it only made sense, since everyone knows me by Geli!”

The 21-year-old grew up in Worcester listening to and loving music. “I remember as a little girl, I would wake up every morning to my mom blasting her radio while she cleaned. It was like my personal alarm clock. My mom and grandparents would tell me how I picked up fast on the songs, and I was always singing.”

Geli’s career began to blossom the age of 11, when her mother realized that her daughter’s gift was more than just singing and mimicking the songs she heard playing on the radio. It was around the same time Beyoncé came out with her first solo album, Dangerously In Love. Geli also had JLo’s This is Me…Then to inspire her. “I was always singing those two albums. I’d find myself replaying the songs over and over, just to write the lyrics down so I didn’t forget the words. I wanted to sing every word!”

Geli considers these divas major influences in her life, as well as Aaliyah, whom she called “legendary.”

“Aaliyah had that dope swag of hers. I loved the way she carried herself. Her music was crazy cool, too! Ever since I was a little girl, I wanted to be like her.

Aaliyah made me feel so comfortable and confident in my skin,” she said.

Geli is also a big Beyoncé fan because of the artist’s female empowerment

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stance and her strong, unflinching work ethic. “I was always a fan and looked up to her, but after watching her documentaries and behind the scenes [footage], I see how much work she puts into perfecting her craft, and I have a new respect for her and I definitely salute her. It is very inspiring and admirable.”

Female empowerment is an important theme in Geli’s music because she sees, sadly, that “women are always hating on each other ~ our looks, the way we act and so on. We should help each other out and embrace one another and uplift each other.”

Her first album, OddBeauty, is an empowering album; the title was inspired by watching Wendy Williams one night on television. “She was talking about the most beautiful women in the world on a magazine, and she was explaining how she wanted a new face ~ someone on the cover of the magazine with a flaw, but who is still beautiful in her own way. She wanted an ‘odd beauty’ on the cover.”

That phrasing stuck with Geli because she believes that every girl should be valued for her unique beauty. “We all have our flaws, and it takes a while for us to embrace [those flaws], but once we do embrace our ‘odd beauty,’ we can empower ourselves and learn how to love ourselves without worrying about being that next pretty face that society wants us to be. We are our own beautiful.”

Geli’s excited to show off her “growth” on her next album, Fight Like A Girl. “It’s going to be dope,” she said.

Her manager (Klep from Bangaville Management) came up with the album title, but the artist said she loves what it implies. “At first I didn’t know, because whenever I heard that saying, it was always in a negative aspect. But when he explained to me how I can flip it and make it into something positive for girls to get behind, I definitely agreed to stay with that title. The next time someone says, ‘You fight like a girl,’ you say, ‘You’re damn right, because by nature women are fighters!’”

No release date is set for Fight Like A Girl yet, but you can keep up with Geli at Geli-Music.com.

Pulsebooks: Two great reads to start the summer

By Kimberly Dunbar

It’s summer, and that means a good read for the beach. If you’re looking for something inspiring to take with you on summer vacation, here are two recently released books that will have you engrossed.

Long Mile Home

by Scott Helman and Jenna Russell Long Mile Home isn’t just a book; it’s a time capsule that transports readers back to one of Boston’s most horrific days ~ April 15, 2013 ~ and the weeks that followed, as the city recovered and sought justice.

Much like 9/11, most people will remember where they were when they heard about the Boston Marathon bombings. While the details of those days may fade, this book will serve as a historic reminder of what happened and how ordinary citizens became heroes.

Released in time for the one-year anniversary, Long Mile Home was written by Boston Globe journalists Scott Helman and Jenna Russell. Storytelling is at the forefront of the book ~ the authors use first-hand accounts of several people, creating a comprehensive narrative of the tragedy. Relive the story from the points of view of people like Boston Police Officer Shana Cottone, who was stationed between the two bomb sites and helped save a woman’s life, and Massachusetts General Hospital’s Dr. David King, who became the face of Boston’s heroic medical staff after rushing to the hospital, even though he had just finished running the marathon himself.

While there are many stories of triumph in this book, there are also the heartbreaking realities that must be faced in the wake of such events. For example, Brighid Wall’s family was uninjured despite their proximity to the bombs, but her young children may be psychologically scarred. The family of Krystle Campbell, a 29-year-old killed in the blasts, still struggles to grieve in the public eye.

Ultimately, Long Mile Home reminds readers that Boston Strong isn’t just a slogan but a feeling that helped a city heal.

Brunette Ambition ~ Lea Michele In her debut book, Brunette Ambition, Lea Michele is quite ambitious. Not only does the actress, best known for her role on Glee, share all of the advice and tips she wished she had to guide her in her teens and early 20s, she includes memorable moments and lessons learned along the way.

The pages are packed with her favorite style, fashion and health advice, aimed to help readers be “your best self and keep things in perspective when your to-do list is overflowing.” Her trusted team of trainers and stylists also weigh in on how they help Michele look and feel her best.

In addition to lifestyle tips, the very private Michele shares parts of her life not often privy to the public. For example, Michele reveals her struggles with acne, as well as critics who insisted she wasn’t pretty enough to be on television. She writes, “The fact that I don’t look like everyone else is exactly what’s opened the most doors for me.”

Throughout the book, Michele encourages the reader to see the value in being yourself and embracing what makes you unique. After all, her life would have been much different if she had listened to those who advised her to get a nose job.

She also gives us a glimpse into her life outside acting, including stories about her adorable friendship with BFF Jonathan Groff, how she dated Matthew Morrison (!!) for a “Broadway beat,” and how she and her mother used to dress up and have parties on award show nights.

While Michele and her “high maintenance diva” character Rachel Berry are often considered one and the same (something that Michele admits bothers her), she seems quite the opposite of Berry. After reading her book, she’s a person with whom you kind of want to be best friends.

June 2014 | THEPULSEMAG.COM 13

w o h s t n e l a t l a c o L gets

By Kevin Swenson

s s e l k Rec

The talent show has been a hallmark of high schools and middle schools for as long as schools have been around. Usually, students strut their talents ~ some amazing, some mind-numbing ~ to raise money for the school.

Not Jonathan Tran’s Universal Talent Show.

“The senior class made it a school event for us to raise money for senior prom, senior gifts and whatnot,” said Tran, 18, a graduate of Worcester’s University Park Campus and a student at Quinsigamond Community College. “After we graduated last year, we missed the show. Chris and I wanted to bring it back, and since everyone who worked on it before left for college, we sort of took it upon ourselves.”

“Chris” is Chris Rodriguez, 18, a fellow student at Quinsigamond and one of Tran’s partners in multimedia group Reckless Productions. Tran and Rodriguez began working as club promoters for Club U (now Rumors) and soon began taking the work they did into their own hands. Teaming up with Curwyn Henry, 20, the original founder of Reckless Productions and the group’s photographer, Tran and Rodriguez found themselves putting on events throughout Worcester.

“I loved it so much that it just took off,” Tran said. “I started meeting different types of people at different times. We all came together and eventually merged into the team we are today.”

Kenny Reyes, 22, a graduate of Anna Maria College in Paxton, Mass., also works with Tran and Rodriguez and is now an essential event promoter at Reckless Productions. Reyes loves not only the talent he sees but what it means to the community as a whole.

“The community really appreciates the talent,” Reyes said. “People look at Worcester and always look at what’s wrong with the schools and the kids. So we use this show to really show these people that we have talented kids.”

The Reckless Productions team has worked hard to find great local talent between the ages of 16-25 and get the community out to support the performers on June 27. The men agree that one of the best acts they have seen came from last year’s show at Clark University.

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“A slam poet began doing his own poem,” Reyes recalled, “and when a certain line left his voice, the crowd began cheering so loud that he could not even finish. When he continued, he finished off his poem and the defending champions from the last show, local rappers Kwaku Amponsah and Jose Barbosa, came on stage and began rapping. It was amazing. As they rapped, however, a live band played behind them. They have returned this year and will blow away the crowd.”

Acts this year will include the Asian cultural dance team SEAC, magician Steven Charette and many other local rappers, singers, dancers and slam poets. Of the 60 performers at the audition, only the best 20 ~ handpicked by the guys at Reckless ~ will hit the stage.

“The Universal Talent Show is a positive outlet for youth and young adults to express the one thing that makes them unique,” Rodriguez said. “It is a judgment- and conflict-free time when people of all races, social classes and affiliations can sit down and enjoy themselves.”

Performers will also have a chance to be scouted by Karon Shea Model Management, of Worcester, for the chance to participate in a model talent show in Los Angeles. Prizes will be given to the best acts, and judges include City Councilor Sarai Rivera; local movie director Steven Charette; Karon Shea, of Karon Shea’s Model Management; and Kristen Lucas, owner of Respect HER Hustle Clothing Company.

“When the lights come on and the first act begins, it’s really wonderful to see people appreciate what we do for them. They get five to nine minutes to perform, but they appreciate the five to nine. For them, it is like being on TV,” Reyes said. “I’m psyched, I really am.”

Tickets can be found online and bought at the door, but Tran said 800 of 1,000 available tickets have been sold and recommends purchasing tickets before the event.

The Universal Talent Show will be held from 5:30-8 p.m. Friday, June 27, at the Sullivan Auditorium at Worcester State University, 486 Chandler Street, Worcester. Tickets are $5 ($10 for front row seating) and can be purchased at universaltalentshow.eventbrite.com.

Jet Black Sunrise brings its love of ’90s to the big stage

By Alex Kantarelis Jet Black Sunrise, a rock band from the Boston area with a love of ’90s rock and indie, has been bringing its eclectic mix of music from the small stage to the big one and releasing a few records on the way. With a new single in the spring and plans for a follow-up to last year’s Capture EP, 2014 is looking like a big year for the band.

It was way back in 2009 when the guys met in college and started jamming in between classes. After a few lineup shuffles and the addition of a drummer found on Craigslist, Jet Black Sunrise officially got together with Jay Schneider on bass, Nick Fede and Matt Smith taking on guitars, J.C. Zwisler keeping the rhythm behind the drums, and keyboardist Matt Cronin rounding out the lineup.

They started writing songs, with influences ranging from pop/indie bands like Coldplay and Radiohead to punk bands like Alkaline Trio to ’90s alternative bands like the Gin Blossoms.

“We lack focus when it comes to the music we listen to,” said Jay Schneider, who is one of the band’s two classically trained musicians. Schneider loves punk and ’90s alternative but is also inspired by classical music and film scores. He credits composer John Newman as one of his influences. Newman composed the scores for American Beauty, Shawshank Redemption and Skyfall, among many others. Mixing energy from punk, a love of ’90s alternative bands, hook-heavy pop and classical compositions, the guys were able to create a unique sound that was certain to get them attention.

After a few years of playing shows and writing music, the band put together its first LP, Falling, which it self-released in early 2011. The next 1½ years were spent playing shows all over Boston, New Hampshire, Providence and Maine before the eventual release of the 2013 EP, Capture. The releases helped land the band at the Kahbang Music Festival in Bangor, Maine, two years in a row, sharing the stage with the Deftones, Wale, Bad Rabbits and St. Lucia, to name a few.

The band kicked off 2014 by releasing a new single, Rock View, which is just one of the new tracks it’s working on for its next release.

“We’ve never really had a problem writing material,” Schneider said. “It’s not the challenge of having enough songs; it’s the challenge of melding them together.”

While there is enough material for another LP, the band may hold off and release an EP to keep us all happy in the digital streaming music era. The band already has booked weekend tours that will bring it all over the Northeast this summer.

Check out jetblacksunrise.com for more information. The band’s latest single is available on iTunes, Spotify and for free on Bandcamp.

June 2014 | THEPULSEMAG.COM 15

16 THEPULSEMAG.COM | June 2014

ON CD John Wesley ~ Disconnect

By Jennifer Russo

Not being terribly familiar with John Wesley’s music, I was unsure of what I would hear when I started listening to his CD. It was a pleasant surprise ~ music that is both simple in nature but elegant in its lyrics and detailed in its instrumentals. In fact, from the first song, I was pulled in with Wesley’s beckoning voice, raspy and yet controlled. Though there is a consistency throughout the 10 songs, each stands out with a slightly different signature element. Rock, progressive, acoustic, electric … it’s really a universal album.

This is a talented musician, and his guitar work is exquisite. He is simply brilliant and uses the instrument like an extension of his own voice, blending the music flawlessly with his actual vocal. There is an overall

Mushroomhead ~ The Righteous & The Butterfly

By Jason Savio

Mushroomhead has always been metal in the truest sense of the word, embracing industrial metal, alternative metal and shock rock (just look at their masks). With The Righteous & The Butterfly, the masked madmen continue to embrace their eclectic influences, creating a record that offers many dark and twisted surprises. One such number is the record’s first single, “Querty,” which begins with an unnerving Puppet Master-like melody that grabs you and never lets go.

Perhaps the biggest surprise of The Righteous & The Butterfly is the effective use of space and knowing when to fill it and to leave it. The band successfully incorporates piano melodies into “Portraits of The

Neon Trees ~ Pop Psychology

By Michael Wood

Neon Trees’ third album, with its brightly colored cover art and its upbeat songs and lyrics, is relentlessly cheerful and energetic. Pop Psychology will make its listeners want to start dancing, or at the very least, drive with their windows down to allow the happy to take the wheel.

“Love In the 21st Century” serves for thumbs-tappingon-the-steering-wheel kind of driving, despite its bleak testimony to the difficulties of modern-day dating in our social media age: “I miss the days being kids simply holding hands / I’m sick of wondering if you would ever call me back / I check my four different accounts just to end up mad.”

18 THEPULSEMAG.COM | June 2014

throwback sound to these songs, building off a classic rock ’n’ roll foundation, adding in a more modern influence as it goes. One of my favorite tracks is “Once a Warrior,” which has an ’80s rock/ new age feel to it and features Alex Lifeson, of Rush, on guitar, unmistakable in the solo. The song that really grabs me, though, is the last song, “Satellite,” which is one of those songs that make us reflect on whatever we may be going through when we’re alone with no one to cater to. It’s an unhurried song about what it is that truly guides us.

Beautiful.

I look forward to hearing what else this guy has to offer. Any true rock fan will embrace this album and never let go.

To learn more visit, john-wesley.com.

Poor” and “For Your Pleasure,” which help settle the mood and create breathing room before the songs explode into heavy choruses. This technique makes those changes in delivery seem all the more impactful, while still keeping the offkilter and suspicious edges intact. Of course, there are also the old-school, spirited butt-kickers like “Out of My Mind” that come peeling out of the gate for those who are heading for the mosh pit.

There is also a cover of Adele’s “Rumor Has It” that is a total hoot; the popular radio tune gets turned into a demonic, ugly stepchild of its former self with a bizarre dub-step breakdown. It may come as a surprise to some, but after all of the tricks Mushroomhead pulls out on The Righteous & The Butterfly, it would seem weird not to cover such a song.

For more, visit mushroomhead.com.

This is alternative pop that harkens back to the days of the New Wave, and ~ as helmed by the velvet-smooth voice of Tyler Glenn ~ so many of the songs are tailor-made to be radio hits. Other favorites on Psychology include “First Things First” and “I Love You (But I Hate Your Friends).”

Who hasn’t been there? That relationship where the other person is “perfect,” but his or her friends leave much to be desired?

Gone may be the darker edge from the Trees’ earlier albums that played to millennials on the brink of a breakdown, but we’re not ones to complain about such things, because life is too short to be so dreary. Plus, we’re in need of a soundtrack for our summer. This just may be it.

For more Neon Trees, head on over to fameisdead.com.

Artist Profile:

Bobby Hogan & Sugar Creek Dragonball Z: Battle of Z expands DBZ universe

By Jason Savio

Dragonball Z remains one of the most popular anime and manga series of all time, spawning new games on a consistent basis. The list of games that have been released is a long one, with a mix of classics and stinkers. The newest addition to that list, Dragonball Z: Battle of Z, attempts to add a new twist to an old formula.

Dragonball Z: Battle of Z continues the tradition set by the series’ previous installments; it’s a fighting-based game focused on the battles depicted in Dragonball Z lore. All of the epic encounters ~ from the Saiyan Saga all the way through to the Majin Buu Saga ~ are playable and supply the spine of the game’s story mode. While this may be nothing new to a DBZ game, it’s the approach the fighting in the game takes, the additional playing modes and the new playable characters, that help make it unique.

The main emphasis of Battle of Z is team battle. Teams of four are left to you to assemble throughout story mode, whether it’s the game itself backing you up or your buddies sitting next to you. Every character is categorized in one of four different battle types, including Ki Blast type and Support type. Each battle type articulates each individual character’s strongpoint, allowing the gamer to strategize and put together a well-rounded team that will win. This approach can be both fun and frustrating. Putting together your own dream team of Z-fighters is an opportunity not usually given, but sometimes, when the AI is on your side, one of your teammates will steal your thunder and deliver the finishing blow before you, making you feel more like a spectator than an active fighter.

To further encourage teamwork, there is an energy bar at the top of the screen.

After every successful offensive maneuver you and your teammates make, the energy bar increases. Once the bar is full, you are able to really lay down the law DBZ-style and deliver an ultimate attack.

Much of this cohesiveness also finds its way onto the various online co-op modes, such as Dragonball Grab, which pits two teams of four against each other in a race to be the first to collect the seven dispersed Dragon Balls. But for those who would rather go it alone, there is the Battle Royale mode, in which every man fights for himself in an up-to-eight-player melee.

While Dragonball Z: Battle of Z may seem like just another addition to the ever-growing library of DBZ games, it makes an effort to separate itself from the others. All of the characters that you have come to love from the series are playable, as well as, for the first time ever, Goku in his Super Saiyan God form from the recently released movie in Japan, Dragonball Z: Battle of Gods. Battle of Z may be frustrating and unfocused at times, but as DBZ fans know, chaos always runs rampant in the world of Goku and his friends.

For more, visit bandainamcogames.com/game/dragon-ball-z-battle-of-z. html.

By Jennifer Russo Despite being a big city focused on growth and an “onwards and upwards” mentality, Worcester loves its blues. In fact, the area houses some of the genre’s greatest original and cover blues bands in Massachusetts, and Bobby Hogan & Sugar Creek has always been one of the city’s most beloved blues bands.

Though it might seem cliché, there is something to be said for being in the right place at the right time. Hogan, who decided to bite the bullet and sing a song at karaoke one night, caught the ear of a friend who knew someone in the industry connected to touring Nashville stars. The industry insider told him to get a band and she would get him a show. The band launched in 1994 and, since then, has won numerous awards and has opened for Alabama, Billy Ray Cyrus and Toby Keith, to name just a few.

After a not-so-brief hiatus (15 years), the band got back together with original and some new members and took to the Worcester stage again, gathering new fans and reconnecting with the old ones.

I asked Hogan if it felt different to be back now, in a new time, and he said that “country music sure has changed and is very challenging,” but that when he approached all the old members of the band, “they were all right in from the start with no hesitation.”

So for a band that has been around the bend and back again, one can imagine that there has been a good deal of life experience to be had. I asked Hogan what has been the greatest lesson he has learned while following his passion.

“Every day, life and families change the course of things you would like to accomplish. Band members from 17 years ago have many different challenges facing them in their daily lives, which, in turn, make this all the more difficult to push a project like this forward. Trying to balance family life along with band rehearsals and shows is a very challenging endeavor,” Hogan said.

There is that drive, though, that pushes them all to succeed even more than they have in the past.

“You must always try to keep it fun while pursuing your goals,” Hogan said.

Be prepared to hear a lot of ‘no’ answers, but never stop believing in the path you’re taking. If you believe in who you are, others will believe in you.”

And what’s not to believe in? Bobby Hogan & Sugar Creek can cover everything from Stevie Ray Vaughn to Billy Currington, although the members’ favorite cover is Keith Urban’s By the Grace of God. Rumor has it that this band puts on one heck of a live show. Fans respond with cheering, dancing and singing along to their favorite songs. The room is energized, and even the loner in the corner can be seen toe-tapping. In addition to covering some alreadyloved country and blues songs, the band is working on some original songs and plans to pursue getting those out over the air.

Bobby Hogan & Sugar Creek will play at Halligan’s Sports Bar in Auburn on June 7. For more information, visit bobbyhoganandsugarcreek.com.

June 2014 | THEPULSEMAG.COM 19

Club & Pub Listings Entertainment at clubs, bars, pubs,

American Graffiti 113 Summer St., Lunenburg 978-345-1010

B-Man’s 140 Tavern 348 Redemption Rock Trail, Sterling 978-422-9763 140pub.com Backstreets Pub 14 Mill St., Fitchburg 978-345-0758 facebook.com/backstreetspubfitchburg The Banner Bar & Grille 112 Green St., Worc.

508-755-0879 thebannerbar.com Barber’s Crossing Road House 861 Main St., Leicester 508-892-7575 barberscrossingrestaurant.com Barbers Crossing (North) 175 Leominster Road, Sterling 978-422-8438 barberscrossingrestaurant.com Thursdays: Karaoke Beatnik’s 433 Park Ave., Worc.

508-926-8877 beatniksbeyou.com Beemer’s Pub 114 River St., Fitchburg 978-343-3148 beemerspub.com Billy’s Pub 81 Clinton St., Shrewsbury 508-425-3353 Black Sheep Tavern 261 Leominster Road, Sterling 978-422-8484 blacksheeptavernsterline.com Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays: Live music June 5: Tony Soul Project June 8: Sabrina Jones Trio with Ken Macy and Johnny Romance Blackstone Tap 81 Water St., Worc.

508-797-4827 blackstonetap.com Blue Plate Lounge 661 Main St., Holden 508-829-4566 hometown.aol.com/blueplatelounge June 7: Red Badge June 13: Freak Out Friday with Tribe June 21: Cosmic Slim & His Intergalactic Plowboys June 28: Shakedown Street Blueprint New American Bar & Grill 9 Village Square, Westminster 978-668-5580 June 6: Bad Reputation June 7: Gale County June 14: Ken Macy June 21: Professor Harp June 28: Amanda Cote Boulder Cafe 880 Main St., Fitchburg 978-345-0008 Breakaway Billiards 104 Sterling St., Clinton 978-365-6105 myspace.com/breakawaybilliardsclinton Brew City 104 Shrewsbury St., Worc.

508-752-3862 brew-city.com

Bull Run Restaurant 215 Great Road, Shirley 978-425-4311, 877-536-7190 bullrunrestaurant.com June 6: Jeff Pitchell and Charles Neville with Texas Flood June 13: Deadbeats June 14: Amy Black and Sarah Borges celebrate the music of Muscle Shoals June 15: Duncan Sheik June 20: Quinn Sullivan June 21: Tret Fure (Ballroom) June 22: Curtis Salgado Band June 28: Al Kooper & the Funky Faculty Cafe Destare 320 Main St., Fitchburg 978-345-5734 destare.com Canal Restaurant & Bar 65 Water St., Worc.

508-926-8353 facebook.com/CanalRestaurantandBar Thursdays: Open Mic, DJ Fridays: DJ Saturdays: DJ, Stage Time Comedy Show June 6: Bob Moon /From the Comoncheros June 7: Rob Adams June 13: Sean Fullerton June 14: Tom Revane Performance June 20: Rick Porter unplugged June 21: Sage Project June 27: Heather McClurg Ralston June 28: Brett Brumby Center Bar & Grill 102 Green St., Worc.

508-438-0597 thecenterbar.com Sundays: Sunday Funday Karaoke with DJ Matty J Fridays: Dance Party with DJ Blackout June 7: Drive South June 20: Tony Soul Centerfolds 2000 139 Southbridge St., N. Oxford 508-987-5222 centerfolds2000.com Chooch’s Food & Spirits 31 E. Brookfield Road, N. Brookfield 508-867-2494 sitewizzer.com/choochs Fridays: Karaoke Chopstick’s Restaurant & Lounge 21 Commercial Road, Leominster 978-534-0020 chopsticksleominster.com Christopher’s Pub 7 Pleasant St., Leominster 978-534-8250 facebook.com/christopherspubleominster Cicero’s Cafe 17 Suffolk St., Worc.

508-767-9728 worcesterscene.com/admin/location_images/ ciceros.jpg Classic’s Pub 285 Central St., Leominster 978-537-7750 classicspub.net Sundays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays: Karaoke June 6-7: Too Shy June 13: H2 & The Groove June 14: Go Gadget Go June 20: Johnny Romance Band June 21: The Plagiarists June 27: Rocket Queen June 28: Sin City

20 THEPULSEMAG.COM | June 2014

& other select venues

Club KasBar 234 Southwest Cutoff, Worc.

508-798-8385 facebook.com/ClubKasBar June 13: Auntie Trainwreck The Columbia Tavern 11 Merriam Ave., Leominster 978-227-5874 June 5: Ian Brown June 12: Toni Knott June 19: Corey Bazillion Cornerstone’s Restaurant 616 Central St., Leominster 978-537-1991 cornerstonesrestaurant.com Cosmopolitan Club 96 Hamilton St., Worc.

508-752-0482 Dance Ranch & Saloon 70 James St., Worc.

508-757-6977 danceranchandsaloon.com Dar Bah 29 Canal St., Millbury 508-865-8441 Days End Tavern 287 Main St., Oxford 508-987-1006 daysendtavern.com Devens Grill 4 Ryans Way, Devens 978-862-0060 devensgrill.com Dunnys Tavern 291 E. Main St., E. Brookfield Electric Haze 26 Millbury St, Worc.

508-799-0629 facebook.com/ElectricHaze Sundays: Funky Jazz Sundays Tuesdays: Hip Hop Tuesdays June 5: Oneal Armstrong June 7: Independent films and music by Alan Evans PlayonBrother ~ Funky Dawgz Brass Band June 11: Mizz Kitsunes Electro Swing Fusion June 13: Dan Burke and the Royal Treatment June 14: Get it On presents five bands June 18: Magic Island ~ Background Orcs June 19: Rocky and the Pressers June 21: Valvatross June 26: Primate Fiasco June 27: William Thompson Funk Experiment June 28: Thought Bomb ~ Comedy Monthly Last Saturdays Fiddlers’ Green Pub & Restaurant 19 Temple St., Worc.

508-792-3700 aohworcester.com June 27: Chris McNamara Firefly’s / Dante’s 350 E. Main St., Marlborough 508-357-8883 fireflysbbq.com Flip Flops 680 Main St., Holden 508-829-3008 flipflopsma.com Flying Rhino Cafe 278 Shrewsbury St., Worc.

508-757-1450 flyingrhinocafe.com Funky Murphy’s Bar & Grill 305 Shrewsbury St., Worc.

508-753-2995

funkyandjosemurphys.com Galway Bay Irish Pub 186 Stafford St., Worc.

508-753-8909 thegalway.com Gardner Ale House 74 Parker St., Gardner 978-669-0122 gardnerale.com Sundays: Jazz brunch Mondays: Live blues Thursdays: Audio Wasabi Fridays, Saturdays: Live music June 27, 28, 29: Uptown Roots Music Festival Gilrein’s 802 Main St., Worc.

508-791-2583 gilreins.net Greendale’s Pub 404 W. Boylston St., Worc.

508-853-1350 greendalespub.com Sundays: Jim’s Blues Jam Tuesdays: Open Mic Night with Bill McCarthy Wednesdays: Wacky Wednesday Open Mic Jam with Mark June 6: Time Machine June 7: Desolate Highway June 13: Tony Soul Project June 14: Mike Lynch Band June 20: Blow it up Johnny!

June 21: Silverbacks June 27: SOUP June 28: Boom Box The Grey Hound Pub 139 Water St., Worc.

508-754-6100 anculiath.com Halligan’s Sports Bar and More 889 Southbridge St., Auburn 508-832-6793 halliganssportsbarandmore.com Hotel Vernon - The Ship Room/Kelley Square Yacht Club 1 Millbury St., Worc.

June 27: Sheez Late, Belit, The McCrites Indian Ranch 200 Gore Road, Webster 508-943-3871 indianranch.com Ixtapa Cantina 308 Massachusetts Ave., Lunenburg 978-582-9701 ixtapacantina2.com JC Fenwick’s 37 Mechanic St., Leominster 978-840-4845 Jillian’s - Worcester 315 Grove St., Worc.

508-793-0900 jilliansworcester.com Mondays: Open Mic Mondays with Bill McCarthy Wednesdays: Karaoke June 6: Criminals and Beauty Queens June 13: One for the Road June 14: UFC 174 June 20: Dazed with opener Ricky Duran June 21: Usual Suspects June 27: How Bizarre with Whitney Doucet June 28: Ton of Blues JJ’s Sports Bar and Grill 380 Southwest Cutoff, Northborough 508-842-8420 jbag.biz June 6: The Groove Street Band June 7: No Alibi June 13: Tribute This! (GnR/Billy Idol tribute)

Continued on Page 25

Pulse

Shots The Greyhound ~ Worcester

Mickey O’Neill’s ~ Worcester

Photos by Justin Perry Parkway Diner~ Worcester

Flying Rhino ~ Worcester

Scorz Sports Bar ~ Worcester

The Fix ~ Worcester

Classic’s ~ Leominster

Gazbar ~ Leominster

24 THEPULSEMAG.COM | June 2014

Continued from Page 20 June 14: 9Teen June 20: How Bizarre!

June 21: Flock of Assholes June 27: Happy Jack (The Who tribute) June 28: Windfall

June 21: Blue Light Bandits June 25: Michael Brennan June 26: Ricky Duran June 27: Blue Light Bandits June 28: Aunt Judy

LaScala Restaurant 183 Shrewsbury St, Worc.

508-753-9912 lascalashrewsburystreet.com Thursdays, Fridays: Live music June 26: Chris Reddy

Mickey O’Neil’s 377 Park Ave., Worc.

The Lazy Dog 31 Main St., Marlborough 508-229-2264 doggonelazy.com

The Mill 185 W. Boylston St., W. Boylston 774-261-8585 themill185.com June 6: Mychael David June 7: Bill McCarthy June 13: How Bizarre June 14: Sean Ryan June 20: Josh Briggs June 21: Chris Reddy June 27: Jay Graham

Legends Airport Road, Fitchburg 978-342-6500 facebook.com/centericebar Leitrim’s Pub 265 Park Ave., Worc.

508-798-2447 leitrimspub.com June 14: James Dorsey Loft 266 Bar & Lounge 266 Park Ave., Worc.

508-796-5177 loft266.com Tuesdays: Karaoke June 14: Erica & Justin London Billiards / Club Oasis 70 James St., Worc.

508-799-7655 londonbilliards.com Lucky Dog Music Hall 89 Green St., Worc.

508-363-1888 luckydogmusic.com Sundays: Karaoke with Vegas magic man/ hypnotist Paul Harter Wednesdays: Karaoke with Paul Harter June 4: Little War Twins (more bands TBA) and karaoke with Paul Harter June 5: Deception of a Ghost, The Things They Carried, Eye 4 and Eye June 6: Men of Steel All Male Revue, The Ritch Kidz June 7: 1 p.m. show with Thinner, Demon’s Alley, Our Former Selves, Far from Eden.

Evening show with Shadowbomb and The Pale Nephews June 11: Free show with Little War Twins, Them Travelin’ Birds and karaoke with Paul Harter June 12: Jody Frawlee & The Unfaithful with guests TBA Mahoney’s Pub 413 Park Ave., Worc.

508-277-1073 facebook.com/mahoneyspub.ma Marty’s Pub 225 Cantebury St., Worc.

508-754-0033 martyspub.com MB Lounge 40 Grafton St., Worc.

508-799-4521 mblounge.com McNally’s Grille & Pub 88 Sargent Road, Westminster 978-874-1444 mcnallysgrille.com Michael’s Cigar Bar 1 Exchange Place, Worc.

508-459-9035 michaelscigar.com June 4: Hit the Bus June 5: Dave B & The Hotshots June 11: Michael Brennan June 12: Ricky Duran June 13: Just Brad June 14: Probable Cause June 18: Dan Dicristafaro June 19: Chris Reddy Acoustic Loops from Hell June 20: Andy Cummings & Swingabilly Lounge

Mickey Sheas 324 Electric Ave., Lunenburg 978-342-5825

Mill Street Brews (@ The Artist Development Complex) 18 Mill St., Southbridge 508-764-6900 millstreetbrews.com Moonstruck Café 19 Worcester Road, Charlton 508-248-4558 Moynihan’s Pub 897 Main St., Worc.

Nick’s Bar and Restaurant 124 Millbury St., Worc.

508-753-4030 myspace.com/NicksWorcester Fridays: Thank Friday It’s Dr. Nat June 7: Suzanne Cabot Trio The Nines Neighborhood Bar 136 Millbury St., Worc.

508-340-0318 June 8: Chris Reddy Acoustic Loops from Hell Olde Post Office Pub 1 Ray St., N. Grafton 508-839-6106 June 13: Ottomatic Slim Band featuring Harp Ave, Otto Lenz On The Rocks Sports Bar & Grill 96 Lakefront Ave., Lunenburg 978-342-6692 Oxford Tavern 314 Main St., Oxford 508-987-5397 Paisanos Pizza & Spirits 450 Lancaster St., Leominster 978-534-7117 The Palladium 261 Main St., Worc.

508-797-9696 thepalladium.net Pampas Churrascaria Restaurant 145 E. Central St., Worc.

508-757-1070 pampas-restaurant.com Partner’s Pub 970 South St., Fitchburg 978-345-5051 partnerspub.com Sundays, Wednesdays, Fridays: Karaoke June 21: Bunny & The Nihilist June 28: Tyrus Patsie Dugan’s 49 Millbury St., Worc.

508-755-4155 patsiedugans.com Perfect Game Sports Grill and Lounge 64 Water St., Worc.

508-792-4263 perfectgameworcester.com

978-534-5900 ryeandthyme.com June 5: Jay Graham June 6: Pants on Fire June 7: The City Boys Band with Johnny Romance & The Captain June 12: Chris Reddy Acoustic Loops from Hell June 13: Brian & Captain June 14: Brian Chaffee & The Players June 19: Kevin Shields June 20: Scott Babineau June 26: Dan Cormier June 27: Brian & Captain June 28: Now & Then

Fridays: DJ One-3 Saturdays: DJ Reckless Pho Dakao 593 Park Ave., Worc.

508-756-7555 Point Breeze On the Lake 114 Point Breeze Road, Webster 508-943-0404 pointbreezeonwebsterlake.com Press Box 536 Lincoln St., Worc.

508-856-9255 facebook.com/pages/The-PressBox/181242711941126 Primetime Pub 5 Summer St., Lunenburg 978-400-7727 facebook.com/PRIMETIMEPUBOFLUNENBURG Wednesdays: Open Mic Night Fridays, Saturdays: Live music Saturdays: Karaoke June 13: The Classics June 27: Andy Cummings Ralph’s Chadwick Square Diner 148 Grove St., Worc.

508-753-9543 ralphsrockdiner.com Sundays: Sunday Night Cinemageddon Mondays: Dirty Gerund Poetry & Variety Show Tuesdays: C.U.Next Tuesdays with DJ Poke Smot June 4: New series Negative Burn every other Wednesday June 5: Metal Thursday CCXLIV ~ Mockingbird, Faces of Bayon, Titanis June 6: Anda Volley, Blindspot, 33 Leaves and Big Bad Wolf June 7: Darkitecht, Dysfunctional Advocate, V, Lore and Slateface June 8: The FUs June 9: Jucifer, Second Grave, Automatic Death Pill and More June 11: Lucha Libro competition every other Wednesday June 12: Metal Thursday CCXLV ~ Deville, Ichabod and more June 13: Ghost Ocean, Herra Terra, Pro Re Nata, Nate Mackinnon The Raven 258 Pleasant St., Worc.

508-304-8133 facebook.com/people/RavenWorcester/100001022046717 Red Onion - Otter River Hotel 29 Main St., Baldwinville 978-939-7373, 978-939-8321 myspace.com/theredonion RG Scooters Pub 84 Lakefront St., Lunenburg 978-348-2453 facebook.com/pages/RGScooters/211225168902092 Rivalry’s Sports Bar 274 Shrewsbury St., Worc.

774-243-1100 rivalrysworcester.com June 6: Drunken Uncles June 7: Gave Navarre June 14: Babe Pinot June 20: Take Two June 21: Tom Revane June 27: The Recliners June 28: The Nudie Suits June 29: Bo and the Highlanders Rose Garden Restaurant and Pub 16 Milford St., Upton 508-529-7776 uptonrosegarden.com Rumors 371 Park Ave., Worc.

508-755-5542 clubuniverseworcester.com

Sakura Tokyo 640 Park Ave., Worc.

508-792-1078, 508-792-1068 sakura-tokyo.com June 6-7: Flock of A-Holes June 13-14: Doctor Robert Scorz 58 Shrewsbury St., Worc. facebook.com/pages/Scorz-SportsBar/216216528569258 Sean Patrick’s Family Restaurant 494 Electric Ave., Lunenburg 888-824-3924, 978-345-2000 seanpatricksrestaurant.com South Side Grille & Margarita Factory 242 W. Broadway, Gardner 978-632-1057 southsidemargaritafactory.com Speakers Night Club 19 Weed St., Marlborough 508-480-8222 speakersnightclub.net Spruce Street Tavern 68 Spruce St., Clinton 978-368-1255 SpruceStreetTavern.com Fridays: Karaoke Sunset Tiki Bar 79 Powers Road, Westford 978-692-5700 skinashoba.com/summer Wednesdays: Chris Reddy, sponsored by Narragansett June 6: Chris Reddy Acoustic Loops from Hell Tal’s Place 138 Lake St., Webster 508-949-6559 talsplacewebster.com Three G’s Sports Bar 152 Millbury St., Worc.

508-754-3516 3gs-sportsbar.com Saturdays: Open mic with the Old School Band Tweed’s 231 Grove St., Worc.

508-755-8047 tweedspub.com Union Tavern 65 Green St., Worc. facebook.com/TheUnionTavernWorcester Upper Deck Sports Bar & Grille 377 Stetson Road, Barre 978-355-2224 upperdecksportsbarandgrille.com Victory Bar & Cigar 56 Shrewsbury St., Worc.

508-756-4747 victorycigarbar.com Vincent’s Bar 49 Suffolk St., Worc.

508-752-9439 facebook.com/vincentsbar Sundays: Big Jon Short June 4: First Wednesdays at Vincent’s June 27: BlueSwitch

Rye & Thyme 14 Monument Square, Leominster

June 2014 | THEPULSEMAG.COM 25

26 THEPULSEMAG.COM | June 2014

Everyday Science Robots get

musical

By R.J. Linton

Many of us begin and end our days with music. Our alarm clocks play music in the morning to get us moving, and our iPods play music in the evening to help us relax. We listen to music on our way to work and on our way home. The bottom line: Music is everywhere. Some of the best musicians have mastered the art of improvisation, and often the music we love the best is performed by a group of improvisational masters working off of each other.

Two artists working with ~ and in some cases, against ~ each other to create is an old tradition. While opinions differ, many find some of the best improv in jazz.

Jazz artists don’t just listen, they watch. Artists communicate visually, giving subtle cues, leading their co-conspirators through the act. This deep connection between two people who love the same art and communicate through that art seems to be a uniquely human experience.

However, some roboticists think teaching robots to improvise musically with humans can lead to new, interesting kinds of music, as well as improving human-robot collaborations.

In order to teach robots to be collaborative partners in music, or any other activity, roboticists like WPI’s Dr. Scott Barton use a variety of artificial intelligence techniques. Barton’s research involves a number of music-playing robots designed to work in harmony with other musicians and their collaborative environments. The intelligence built into these types of machines relies on principles of statistical inference to make sense of the sights and sounds around them.

Statistical inference is a primary technique in many areas of artificial intelligence. It makes sense that we use ideas from statistics in A.I. systems, once you understand that scientists rely on statistics to draw conclusions from unimaginably difficult-to-understand sets of information.

In the same way that scientists use thousands of measurements of air and water temperatures to determine the health of our climate, robots take visual and auditory measurements of thousands of examples of musical collaborations in order to make inferences ~ or guesses ~ at what their musical partners are trying to do. Through these statistical methods, robots, in effect, learn to be collaborators in the human-robot musical collaboration.

These collaborations are not yet perfect, and robots are far from being jazz masters, but engineers continue to refine the techniques of teaching robots to work with people. Perhaps in the near future, robotic musicians will be able to take statistics and predict how to best interact with their human counterparts with the same skill as physicians who use statistics to determine how best to treat their patients.

In the meantime, head over to Dr. Barton’s website (scottbarton.info) and hear what kinds of music these early musical robots are playing.

June 2014 | THEPULSEMAG.COM 27

28 THEPULSEMAG.COM | June 2014

REVIEW

DINING & Entertaining

Mezcal ups its

game at new location

By Bernie Whitmore

Mezcal Tequila Cantina 30 Major Taylor Blvd., Worcester (508) 926-8307 mezcalcantina.com In a town where a chief source of entertainment is dining out, a restaurant’s move to a new location often provokes concern and laments: ‘Woe betide us, neuer ageyn shalt we partake foode so precyouse, so gloryouse!”

But such histrionics have not materialized with Mezcal’s move from Shrewsbury Street. My first reaction on entering the new location was a sense of freedom that comes from open spaces. Indeed, Mezcal is introducing the experience of spacious dining to Worcester, a town accustomed to packed, “cozy” spaces.

The evening I joined a friend for dinner was one of the first warm spring days after what seemed an eternal winter. As if to celebrate, Mezcal had thrown open its wall of windows and set up streetside seating. Erica, our server, soon arrived to welcome us and describe the margarita offerings.

Looking around, I noted a few remnants of Mezcal’s recent Cinco de Mayo celebration hanging from industrial gauged I-beams overhead. Bare beams, combined with polished concrete floors, provide the room with the acoustic signature of a Mexican cantina. A huge bar, separated from the dining area by a row of booths, was packed with the after-work crowd. The energy level was cranked to “high.”

In that moment, the only decision weighing upon us was which guacamole to order. Mezcal offers “tasting flights,” which proved irresistible. We anchored ours with homemade salsa, and for guacamole, we went with House and Thai Rooster.

Soon after Erica presented our appetizer, with its bowl of crispy-thin chips, we went into analytical mode.

Fresh? Absolutely. A team of guacamole-makers work at its own station, scraping avocadoes nonstop. And tasty; my friend soon commented, “There’s something nice and spicy going on here!”

I thought Thai Rooster was the standout; sriracha sauce stoked up the heat and toasted coconut and bits of dried pineapple provided a sweet balance. In texture, the dried pineapple reminded me of raisins, so those who hate raisins mixed into their food might want to steer clear. Happily, I’m not afflicted with such aversions.

We dipped away at our appetizer and sipped margaritas. A sample of my friend’s Blood Orange Margarita revealed a sweet-citrus flavor, cool and refreshing. I’ve had my share of too-sweet margaritas in the past, so I decided to try the Smoky. Made with mezcal, I thought it went well

30 THEPULSEMAG.COM | June 2014

with both food courses.

True to its name, Mezcal offers an extensive bar menu of tequila and artisanal mezcal (“tequila’s smoky counterpart”). This is not a taste I’ve acquired … yet.

When I dine at a Niche Group restaurant, I don’t worry about menu items that might seem risky or uninteresting elsewhere. That’s because Niche’s many projects have earned a guarantee of quality and creativity. Thus freed of risk, I chose Mezcal’s Tacos (three for $13). When I read the list of taco choices, I saw it an opportunity to journey through the Mexican-fusion concept.

My choices: Vegetarian #2 was loaded with roasted cauliflower florets and topped with a wedge of avocado that had been fried golden-brown along the edge. Mixed together with creamy corn sauce, this was proof that vegetarianism doesn’t have to be punishment.

Next, a Duck Taco contained shredded, welldone duck meat, drenched in sweet barbeque sauce and slathered over a crunchy slaw made with julienned jicama.

My Asian Beef Taco rounded out the trio.

Though the beef was also shredded, it had the most spicy-heat of my choices. Lined up on the dish, it looked similar to the duck taco, but its ginger-hoisin sauce gave it distinction.

Another fusion entry, Shrimp & Chorizo Risotto, was my friend’s entrée choice.

Mexican? Italian? Portuguese? All of the above. The classic creamy Arborio rice was studded with bits of chorizo and roasted corn, then topped with five large, tender, grilled shrimp. Dabs of tasty cilantro pesto cream anchored each corner of the plate. Smoldering fire came from the nest of roasted red jalapeño peppers scattered amongst the shrimp.

Mezcal’s Tres Leches Cake seemed an ideal closure to the range of assertive flavors in our previous courses. A square of spongy cake was soaked in silky-smooth crème anglaise and striped with sweet strawberry sauce. My friend intoned, “Every bite was imbued with richness,” while I grabbed a spoon to scoop up the last of the creamy sauce.

No discussion of Mezcal’s location would be complete without acknowledging its solution to the city’s perennial parking nightmare: Just stack a multi-level parking garage upstairs!

Mezcal Tequila Cantina has long been one of Worcester’s tastier dining options; now, it’s also our most convenient.

Hot & Now

By Paul Giorgio

Annual Taste of Shrewsbury St. Join the 40 restaurants and bars on Shrewsbury Street for Worcester’s unofficial kickoff to summer. The event, now in its 13th year, is Worcester’s largest block party. For $25, you can stroll the street and enjoy samples from the restaurants along Worcester’s Restaurant Row. The $25 is used by the Shrewsbury Street Merchants Association to pay for the upkeep of the street, its trees and flower beds. Money also goes to local charities. Once again, the event is sponsored by Quality Beverages, CSX, Pepsi, Herb Chambers Fiat, DCU Credit Union, Fidelity Bank, Bay State Savings Bank and Peoples United Bank. Media sponsors include Pulse Magazine, Tasteworcester.com, WXLO, The Pike, WORC-FM and WCRN 860 AM. To purchase a button, go to tasteshrewsburystreet.com.

Just in time for the Taste. Two new restaurants opened on Shrewsbury Street the first week of May. Meze, a Greek tapas restaurant, and The Fix, a hamburger emporium, both had soft openings. Sliders or grilled octopus ~ you now have a choice.

We still wonder. We hear through several sources that the Wonder Bar has been sold and it will reopen. We can’t tell you who bought it, but it is a family that has been in business in the Shrewsbury Street area for three or four generations, beginning with a small family grocery store in the 1950s. We also hear that new owners will keep the name and concept.

Further down Route 9. Tomaso’s in Southborough has hired a new executive chef and a new chef de cuisine. Bill Bradley, formerly a consulting chef, will take over the top job at Tomaso’s, while Michelle Blass will assume the job of running the kitchen. Tomaso’s has long been regarded as one of the best Italian restaurants in the MetroWest area.

South County news. We have two bits of information to impart from our South County correspondent. The All Star Pub is closed and will reopen after renovations as an Irish pub. The new name will be Mulligan’s. Since this is connected to Mohegan Bowl, you might be able to have a Guinness while you bowl.

Also in Webster. A new seafood restaurant and market has opened on 32 Main St., appropriately named the Lobster Nook.

News about India. The New House of India at 2 Coes Square on Worcester’s Park Avenue was recently approved for a liquor license.

White Cliffs on the market. The White Cliff’s Restaurant & Function Hall on Route 20 in Northborough is on the market for $2 million. The 128-year-old mansion was originally owned by the Wesson family of gun fame. In recent years, it was run as a restaurant by the Tomaiolo family, which has owned several restaurants in the Worcester area, including the Parkway Diner. Family members still run A.J. Tomaiolo’s, also in Northborough. The mansion is almost 20,000 square feet. It has 32 rooms and 17 fireplaces and was built as a summer home.

Chili’s closes. The Chili’s at the Fairlawn Plaza on Route 9 in Shrewsbury is closed. The plaza is scheduled to be demoed and a new mixed-use development will be going in.

Restaurant icon passes. We morn the loss of Stanley Nicas, the founder of Leicester’s Castle Restaurant. Nicas proudly worked until he was 90. He was the mentor of numerous chefs and served on the Board of Trustees of Johnson & Wales University. His culinary accomplishments are too numerous to mention.

He is survived by his children, Evangeline and James.

June 2014 | THEPULSEMAG.COM 31

PulseBREW:

Check out the cans!

By Kerry Cyganiewicz

It started back in 2002. Oskar Blues packaged its Dale’s Pale Ale in a can. This was the first craft beer to be sold in a can. At first, many people thought it was a marketing ploy. In reality, Oskar Blues was on to something.

Cans seal better than a bottle and do not allow light in, allowing beer to stay fresher longer. Some say that cans retain hop aroma better than bottles. Cans are more portable than bottles. Cans are also preferred as a poolside beer delivery device by barefoot people everywhere. They are lighter and pack easier, which means they are more cost-effective and greener to ship.

Below are some exceptional beers ~and a surprise for our gluten-free readers ~ available in cans.

Sam Adams Summer Ale (5.3% ABV)

This is actually an American pale wheat ale brewed with lemon zest and grains of paradise. It has become the go-to summer beer for many and a must-have at large gatherings. It has a proprietary can design patented by Sam Adams to improve drinkability and aroma. The good guys at Sam Adams have made the can design available free of charge to all breweries that can. The different can design makes it easy to pick out of a cooler. It’s fizzy, slightly tart and refreshing on a summer day. Its light mouthfeel and easy drinkability make it a cookout must.

Sixpoint Resin (9.10% ABV)

Don’t get excited about the name of this beer. Although cannabis is a distant cousin of the hop plant, resin refers to the sticky good stuff in a hop flower.

This can is similar in size and shape to a certain blue energy drink, which again makes it easy to pick out of a cooler. Be careful with this one. It is as drinkable as the others, but packs a wallop with its high alcohol content. As soon as I opened the can, aromas of pine, citrus and tropical aromas filled the general area. The first sip revealed a similar flavor profile, in addition to a muted caramel taste. Shockingly crisp and clean for what it is.

21st Ammendment Hell or High Watermelon (4.90% ABV) “I don’t like fruit in my beer, but I like this,” is a comment I have heard over and over again about this beer. It starts its life as a simple American wheat beer with a reduced hop content. That means little to no bitterness, and the fruit flavor can shine. Then, this beer is put through a secondary fermentation with real watermelon. It pours a dark yellow. It has adequate carbonation and a light mouthfeel. There is a definite aroma and taste of watermelon in this beer. It is ridiculously drinkable. Add this to your cooler for a wonderful conversation piece.

Wachusett Light IPA (4.0% ABV)

Wachusett IPA was the first beer I ever had in a growler back in the mid-90s.

Unlike a typical IPA, it is only 4% ABV and is only 121 calories. It is extremely difficult to balance the hop bitterness and the malt sweetness with a beer of this ABV, but somehow Wachusett manages to do it. It looks and smelled like an IPA, a slight brown color with a thick white head. Aromas of pine and citrus were prevalent. It had a moderate mouthfeel. This should be a favorite session beer for those who enjoy IPAs.

Berkshire Brewing Steel Rail Extra Pale Ale (5.30% ABV)

This is the only American pale ale of the bunch; it is like an IPA, with less hop bitterness and aroma. It pours a dark blonde with a modest white head. There is a light cereal aroma and an ever-so-slight hint of hops. Mouthfeel was on the light side. It had a pronounced malty sweetness and a mere suggestion of hops.

This is an excellent choice for someone who likes an IPA minus the bitterness.

Harpoon Summer Beer (4.80% ABV)

This is a Kolsch, patterned after the light ales brewed in Cologne, Germany. It poured a light gold with a thin head and active carbonation. There was a light bread and lemon aroma coming up off the glass. It tasted exactly like it smelled, possibly the most drinkable beer of the bunch. As I drank this, I imagined myself at the beach. This would go great with a steamed lobster and clams. Another excellent choice for a summer beer.

Narragansett Bohemian Pilsner (5.20% ABV)

This is the only lager of the bunch, and it was also one of the biggest surprises.

I am a fan of regular Narragansett, and I am proud to admit it, but this beer is on another level. The beer pours a brilliant light gold with a moderate-sized head. It has the typical European pilsner aromas of crackers and German hops.

It tasted like it smelled, with a clean, crisp finish. It is super drinkable and is in my fridge as we speak. Imagine for a moment that regular Narragansett grew up and matured. Don’t imagine; its right here.

Gluten-Free Alternatives

A number of my friends cannot enjoy beer due to a gluten allergy. For some time, I have been on the lookout for a good gluten-free beer. I have yet to find one that I can recommend. What I can say is to try a cider. I have seen numerous varieties from both Angry Orchard and Woodchuck available in a can. Cider made from apples is naturally gluten-free. Some even have their ciders tested by an independent lab and have gluten-free facilities. Read the package to be sure.

32 THEPULSEMAG.COM | June 2014

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June 2014 | THEPULSEMAG.COM 33

Sports & Fitness

Half marathon, whole heart: Festival, runners return to city

By Kimberly Dunbar

In spring 2010, Megan Weeks was deep into her training for Worcester’s inaugural half marathon when she felt something wrong with her foot.

The diagnosis: She had suffered a stress fracture and had to bow out of the race.

“I signed up to challenge myself,” said the 29-year-old Princeton resident. “I wanted to accomplish running 13.1 miles but never got the chance. I was bummed.”

After taking a break from racing, the now mother of two is ready for redemption. She’ll be lining up with nearly 1,500 of her fellow runners June 15 for the Worcester Running Festival to finally run her first half marathon. The race, which is back after a one-year hiatus, will be bigger and better than ever this year ~ complete with a 5K and 1K youth run.

“It’s a great chance to get to run in downtown Worcester,” said Worcester Running Festival Race Director Charles Breagy.

“The common is a fantastic place to stage a race.”

When Worcester was looking for someone to bring the half marathon race back to the city, it turned to Charles Breagy, a man known around town for his ability to put on a great event. (He is the brains behind Worcester’s Celtic 5K, Monster Dash and Jingle 5K.) Breagy, who ran with Central Mass Striders back in the 1980s, jumped at the chance.

“I know how appreciative the runners in Worcester are if you do your best to organize a good race,” he said. “The support I have seen so far is very encouraging for me and my team to organize races in Worcester. I have found it

34 THEPULSEMAG.COM | June 2014

easy to organize events here because of the cooperation from the city and the volunteer groups that help out at these events.”

Something runners will also appreciate about Breagy: his commitment to finding a great course, which, according the race director, is mostly flat. “It took months to find the perfect course,” he said. “There is a hill early in the course, around 2½ miles on Salisbury Street.

The rest of the course is pretty much flat. I am very pleased with how it turned out.”

The Worcester Running Festival is closely aligned with the city’s Mass in Motion initiative ~ a mission to get city residents more active and eating better ~ and a step toward Worcester’s goal of becoming the healthiest city in New England by 2020.

Breagy is hoping that the festival will grow exponentially and that adding a 5K and a 1K youth run will encompass a wider range of individuals.

“Not everyone can go out and run 13.1 miles,” said Breagy. “The 5K runs are fun and good exercise for those trying to keep in shape. A half marathon takes a lot more effort.”

For runners like Weeks, it’s all about getting outdoors and having fun. “I’m looking forward to exploring the city on foot ~ an uninjured one,” she said. “And to finally crossing that finish line.”

For more information and to register, visit runworcester.com.

June 2014 | THEPULSEMAG.COM 35

Art & Culture

Musical brings back ’90s movie ~ with a twist

By Brianna MacMillan

Ghosts, magic and love will take center stage at the Hanover Theatre this summer.

From June 5-8, the Hanover Theater will be filled with the mystifying illusions and timeless love story of Ghost the Musical.

First made famous in the Oscar-winning movie “Ghost,” starring Patrick Swayze, Demi Moore and Whoopi Goldberg, the storyline of the musical follows that of the film, featuring all of the iconic moments and magic.

Brandon Curry, who plays the Subway Ghost in the production, described the plot as a story of “two lovers who are kind of living the American dream, which is cut short when one of them is killed.” Over the course of the musical, the deceased, Sam, is attempting to reach out to his wife, Molly, to make her “feel his love from beyond,” Curry said. Although they are living in two different worlds, Sam refuses to leave Molly, and when he learns that she is in danger, seeks the help of a storefront psychic in order to communicate with her, protect her and avenge his death.

The musical was adapted from the film by its award-winning screenwriter, Bruce Joel Rubin, staying true to the general storyline and important moments that are treasured within the movie.

“All of those really great iconic moments

people associate with the movie are also in the musical,” said Curry, who looks forward to mystifying viewers with the multiple illusions that the show contains. Describing the show as “mystifying and jarring,” Curry said viewers should expect to be left gasping.

“There’re lots of really cool magic tricks in the show,” said Curry, who described illusions such as walking through walls and levitation. Viewers should expect to get caught up in the illusions throughout the show.

During its time at the Hanover Theatre, the show will be in the last half of its tour.

Ghost the Musical will continue touring through August, when it closes in Las Vegas. Curry, a North Carolina native with friends in the Worcester area, said he’s looking forward to returning to the area and being part of the production.

Ghost the Musical will be at the Hanover Theatre for six shows. For tickets ($42-$72) and more information, visit thehanovertheatre.org.

Photos Above: The cast of Ghost The Musical Tour. Photo by Joan Marcus.

Right: Steven Grant Douglas and Katie Postotnik in Ghost The Musical Tour. Photo by Joan Marcus.

36 THEPULSEMAG.COM | June 2014

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beauty & style

Summer Skin

By Erin Cornell

While we love summer, sun and humidity also leaves us with oily complexions, enlarged pores and sunburns. But don’t get discouraged. We’ve put together a list of affordable beauty products that can help you keep problems at bay while you’re enjoying the great outdoors!

Wash up

Showering more often during the summer can strip your skin of its natural oils. If you’re suffering from dry skin, try Korres Natural Products shower gels, designed to cleanse the body of summer sweat while offering plenty of hydration. The emollients and humectants maintain the natural moisture level of the skin, while the sweet Grecian aromas stimulate the senses. Available in Basil Lemon, Guava, Fig, Jasmine, Japanese Rose and Vanilla Guava. $19.50; sephora.com.

Set the tone

Before applying your moisturizer, the use of a toner is essential for proper cleansing of your skin during the summer months. Facial Toner from Dr. Hauschka Skin Care contains an herbal blend of anthyllis and witch hazel extracts, proven to reduce the appearance of pores and improve firmness and elasticity. It can be used on normal, dry or sensitive skin, and the fine mist can be applied throughout the day to keep you refreshed and awake. $34.95; drhauschka.com.

40 THEPULSEMAG.COM | June 2014

Hydration station

Planning a summer vacay this year? Sun, sand and seawater can all take their toll, but Earth Therapeutics Body Butter Triple Treat offers a great travel set to help replenish moisture for overworked summer skin. Three natural plant butters ~ cocoa, mango and shea ~ heal and soften skin without being greasy. Even better, the blend of certified organic botanical extracts leaves behind the fresh scents of orange, lemon and mango. $9.99; earththerapeutics.com.

Come clean

If you thought washing your face every night was important, it’s even more important during the summer, when sweat, sunscreen and salt can all build up to create pore-clogging residue. The French Clay Cleanser with DMAE from Clairvoyant Beauty purifies and deeply cleanses pores, eliminating excess oil with highly concentrated French Pink and Green clays. Anti-aging nutrient DMAE protects against a breakdown in collagen to create an even and firm complexion, while the calming and fresh scent of pink grapefruit essential oil makes for an overall great product. $32; clairvoyantbeauty.com.

Get your feet ready for summer

The Style List.

By Stacia Kindler

By Skyy Hadley

It's sandal season! If you’ve been neglecting your feet, it's time to get them in shape with these insider pedicure tips: Rehydrate

In order to get feet ready for the warmer months, it is important to add moisture back into the heels and skin that have become dehydrated from the winter months. Try these simple remedies: •

Milk pedicures will save the day. Mix ½ cup of hot water with 1 cup of milk and add a spoonful of sugar. This will moisturize and prevent calluses. Soak feet for at least 10 minutes.

•

Working a foot scrub into your heels is a great way to remove dead skin. Avoid using pumice stones, since they trap bacteria; try using a diamond file instead.

•

After feet are fully exfoliated, rinse, moisturize with a non-greasy lotion and begin painting.

•

Shea butter, light oil or Vaseline can be used to moisturize the heels and help prevent cracking.

•

If you have blisters, leave them for the professionals. You’ll end up doing more harm than good if you try to pop them.

Make it last

Get the most out of your pedicure with these tips: •

A clear top coat is your best friend. Be sure to apply a top coat on the third day of your pedicure.

•

Never use protein-enriched and strengthener products together.

Using both will cause your polish to crack. Try to only apply a nail protein to bare nails

•

Apply a cuticle oil to the base of your toenails, focusing around the cuticle area to hydrate and bring moisture into the skin, helping the polish last longer.

Keep Up

You can never care for your feet too often, but it isn’t necessary to do weekly pedicures, either. Once every two weeks is sufficient during the warmer months.

Skyy Hadley is a beauty expert, celebrity manicurist and owner of As “U” Wish Nail Spa in Hoboken, N.J.

Top summer fashion faux pas It’s finally here ~ summer. It’s the season full of outdoor adventures, vacations and sun even after the workday is done. With so many things to do in just three short months, along with rising temperatures and sky-high humidity, it is easy to see how the summer months are packed with the most uncomfortable and cringe-worthy style mishaps. So do yourself a favor and do not get caught sporting one of these summer fashion faux pas over the next few months.

The most common summer fashion faux pas we see as summer is just beginning is the oh-so-awkward mixing of seasons, i.e. the dreaded Uggs and sundress pairing. Cable-knit sweaters, oversized cardigans and most boots should not ~ under any circumstances ~ be worn after May. Summer is just about the only season in New England where you display your feet, showing how absolutely clueless people are as to what theirs actually look like after being trapped inside socks and shoes for the past eight months. So do your homework and treat yourself to a pedicure. Don’t get caught having the feet that make everyone else run in terror to the nail salon.

Arguably, the best part of the summer is taking off a weekend to soak up the sun, break out that new bikini and be the ultimate beach bum. Sunglasses on, drink in hand. … The one thing that is just not cute is wearing excessive makeup on the beach. It’s almost as bad as wearing heels on the beach ~ you just shouldn’t do it. After all, you’re there to swim in salty water and sweat out yesterday’s stress, not shoot a music video.

Didn’t have time to hit the beach this weekend? There’s nothing worse than making up for it with too much fake tanner and the accompanying orange, streaky skin. Gradual tanning lotion works for a lot of people and is virtually foolproof, or, if you need a quicker fix, try applying fake tan mixed with regular lotion for a more even application.

Once you figure out all of these details, the last thing you want to be is the girl showing too much skin. It’s a difficult happy medium to find as the summer temperatures climb, along with hems. As long as an honest effort is made to not be “that girl” walking around the mall in a bikini top, you should be fine.

At the end of the day, the summer season is first and foremost about having fun and letting loose, but that doesn’t mean that absolutely all sartorial rules should be cast away until further notice. So take a second to re-think the most tempting style crimes this summer ~ flip flops (probably not cute) or a bra sticking out of a strappy backless top (try again). You can do it!

June 2014 | THEPULSEMAG.COM 41

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