The Patriot - March 2013

March 2013

In this issue:

UC announces new housing changes What happened with convocation?

Last minute fit-tips before spring break

Are you ready for spring break?

2

What’s Inside News

Pages 3- 7

Features

Pages 14-20

Creative

Pages 8- 9

Sports

Page 22

Q&A

Pages 10-11

Entertainment

Pages 23 - 26

Photos

Pages 12-13

Our Staff Editor-in-Chief

Staff Writers:

Christin Miller

Abbey Cherry

Copy Editors:

Kasey Malone

Kelly Allen

A.J. Moyten

Brandy Norman

Brandy Norman

Jannica Brady

Assistant Editor Natasha Jones

Ryan Poynter Kristina Smith

Faculty Advisor:

Caleb Vander Ark

Jeremiah Massengale

Whitley West Solomon Whitaker Alex Williams Matthew Williams Timothy Wyatt

Contact us at: Phone: (606) 539-4172 E-Mail: thepatriot@ucumberlands.edu Mailing Address: 7609 College Station Drive Williamsburg, KY 40769

The official student publication of the University of the Cumberlands

Editorial Review Board: Lisa Bartram Marianne Worthington

News

3

A Common Ground Coffee house opens in Williamsburg

BY NATASHA JONES Assistant Editor

Saturday nights in Williamsburg just got

formers, they had all new equipment set up.

interesting. On February 9, A Common

One of the lead singers of the Sowing Season

Ground Coffee Shop, located at 219 South

is worship leader at Cornerstone. OH! Divide

5th St. in the lower level of Cornerstone

is a local band made up of UC students

Community Church, had its opening night.

Solomon Whitaker, Tyler Bird, Jordan

Many people came out to enjoy live music,

Infield, and Erika Dobbsa UC alumni. They

good coffee and great conversation.

classify themselves as a folk/acoustic rock

The new attraction will be open every

band. Both bands played two sets at two dif-

Saturday night from 5-10 p.m. Tim and Hope

ferent times. When the bands were not per-

Cooper, members of the church who worked

forming, the coffeehouse played different

on the project along with other members of

genres of music.

cornerstone, hope this venue will be a safe enjoyable hangout

One of the members of the band, OH!

for members of the

Divide, Solomon Whitaker said, “I thought it

Williamsburg community.

was great. Good amount of people showed up

Hope Cooper said, “Our team is thrilled

throughout the night. Good conversations,

that A Common Ground Coffee Shop already

lots of people enjoying themselves. I don’t

seems to be filling a niche in our community,

like coffee but everybody else said it was

even just after two weeks of business. We are

good. I tried the Belgium chocolate drink and

here for the purpose of creating a safe, whole-

it was fantastic.”

some community hub, literally a common

Cornerstone hopes to keep bringing in

ground, and I believe we are seeing just that

local talent,as well as bringing fine art in for

happen. We praise God for the way he has been providing and look forward to seeing how this vision will continue to grow.”

Hayley Davis, a UC freshman, said, “I don’t really like coffee, but I like people so that’s why I went.” She described it as, “Very busy, every seat was taken; they had cute little couches and chairs. Everyone was having a good time. I had seen people that I had

customers to enjoy. Groups of friends and

Photo by Haley Davis

passed for months who I hadn’t got a chance

A Common Ground Coffee Shop serves a

to talk to; I got to have a conversation with.

variety of drinks including hot chocolate,

We’re all so busy you don’t get opportunities

teas, and non-coffee beverages. They also

like that. The atmosphere was as warm as the

serve light food including homemade

coffee they were brewing.” Everybody who

desserts, all at various prices.

went to opening night has bragged about

The coffee house featured two local

what an enjoyable and welcoming atmos-

bands on opening night: OH! Divide and

phere.

Sowing Season. On the stage with the per-

The official student publication of the University of the Cumberlands

families are welcomed and the option of take out is available as well.

You can find and like them on Facebook as well as on Twitter to find news and information to keep informed.

4

News

Inspirational speaker David Edwards addressed the audience at the O. Wayne Rollins Center on the University of the Cumberlands campus as a part of this academic year’s opening convocation ceremony. Last year, and many years before, the 10 a.m. hour was set aside on Mondays or Wednesdays for convo events.

The official student publication of the University of the Cumberlands

News 5

Students react to recent convocation changes

BY TIMOTHY WYATT, Staff Writer, JANNICA BRADY, Staff Writer, AND ALEX WILLIAMS, Staff Writer Sometimes, change is good, but old

process. Change is never easy, but we think

utes before the event is scheduled to begin.

gram was decided to be held in the Gatliff

habits die hard. For University of the

over time, although there have been bumps in

Students without tickets will then be admitted

Chapel because a similar program was held

Cumberlands students, that habit was convo-

the road, the road is getting smoother.”

on a first-come, first-served basis if there is

last fall semester, but only 240 students

room.

showed up, making capacity a main concern

cation. Last year, and many years before, the

But for now, those bumps can seem like

10 a.m. hour was set aside on Mondays or

potholes, with students finding the new for-

The process, overall, has left a number of

now when planning events. Too many people

Wednesdays for convo events. There have

mat difficult to maneuver around their sched-

students struggling to meet the new require-

in one building is a fire hazard; not enough

been numerous changes to that schedule this

ules, especially those who live off-campus or

ments. Ezra Anderson, a UC junior, said,

people in a building for such an event reflects

year, including venturing away from the 10

work. Ashley Partin, a married commuter

“Last year, I felt like it was more accessible

poorly on the university.

o’clock hour and moving the bulk of events

said, “It makes it hard for commuters to drive

considering there was a certain time everyone

The reason that most convocation pro-

to the evening, which has been met with

back to campus when we have a job. My

had to be there. You had no choice. So, to

grams aren’t held in the O. Wayne Rollins

much resistance from students.

employer is not too happy that I have had to

miss it was your fault completely. But. now

Center is because the center has a lot of time

Linda Carter, the dean of student life,

take eight days off of work. It also means a

they have convos and main events that they

reserved for sporting events, particularly in

said, “The university staff had been thinking

loss of some income for me and my hus-

put caps on, so they have limited the amount

the spring semester.

about this change for a while. It is more flex-

band.”

of students who can actually pass convo..”

As of now, there is only one “Major

ible for students and allows them to take

The change isn’t only affecting com-

This reserved seating system came into

Convocation” event scheduled for the rest of

more personal responsibility and gives stu-

muters and employees though; it also incon-

place because of problems that arose during

the spring semester—the Forcht Series

dents more choices.”

venient for those whose major requires them

the University Recognition Program—a

Leadership Convocation set for April 9, 2013.

The choices that Carter alluded to are part

to put in extra time even after classes are

“Major Convocation”—on Feb. 11. The

of a category system that was also introduced

over. Theatre arts major Liz Guillermo said,

event was held in the Gatliff Chapel and

Fleenor said, “I share the concern with

in an attempt to give students more selection

“I like the variety—that there are different

quickly reached maximum capacity. This

the students; the frustration and aggravation.

as to what convo events they attend.

things that we can do, but my major requires

meant that many students were turned away

I understand what it would be like—which is

According to the University webpage, “The

me to be in the theater a lot, especially during

from attending the program.

why I immediately sent out an email to stu-

purpose of convocation is to promote a wide

nights because I have rehearsals. So, I miss a

Fleenor states that the student’s opinions

dents to say, 'If you have issues with your

range of common and shared experiences

lot of convocation opportunities that I can’t

truly matter, saying, “I’d be ticked too if I

attendance, please contact me.' I'd be glad to

among UC students in the areas of Faith

make up, which means I end up failing out or

tried to get off work, stood in line and could-

work with you to see what we can work out

Development,

having to take it another semester.”

n’t get in. What we tried to do is look at how

in your situation.”

Academic/Cultural

Presentations, and General Interest.” With the

More recently, a new reserved seating

to fix this problem. It made sense to put in

If students have questions about convoca-

new schedule, students are required to attend

system was implemented. Like at a movie

place a reserved seating approach. I am the

tion or about their attendance, Fleenor is

two events in each of these categories.

theatre, students will be able to pick up a tick-

father of a college student. Although I think I

located in the Cordell House located near the

Rick Fleenor, the director of convoca-

et from the Office of Student Services, which

understand students well, I don’t want to

Boswell Campus Center parking lot. Students

tion, acknowledges that the adjustment isn’t

reserves them a guaranteed seat for a convo-

make all the decisions based on what I think

can also email him at rick.fleenor@ucumber-

perfect, saying, “We knew when we made the

cation event. Students with tickets will be

alone.”

lands.edu.

changes to convo that it would be a growing

able to have a confirmed spot until 10 min-

According to Fleenor, the Feb. 11 pro-

The official student publication of the University of the Cumberlands

6 News

The UC Trumpet Ensemble sets high goals The UC Trumpet Ensemble needs your help.

BY CHRISTIN MILLER

Four of The UC Trumpet Ensemble members, David Harris, Nicki Howard, Jacob Lovell, Dr. Patrick Tuck, and ensemble director, Justin Byrd, practice on Tuesday, Feb. 12.

Editor in Cheif Photo by Christin Miller

The UC Trumpet Ensemble has set two

able to work one on one with him and give us

for the professional development. It’s not

make a profit. The coffee sale will consist of

lofty goals for 2013 and is determined to

any insight he can to help us in our future and

every day a musician has the opportunity to

a booth set up in the mid-BCC and will last

achieve them. First, they want to bring Joe

during our study. I really can’t wait” said

mingle with the masters of the trade. The ben-

through March 6. Second, they are looking

Burgstaller to eastern Kentucky, second, they

Nicki Howard, junior and UC Trumpet

efits and knowledge gained through this

for churches and special events to play for in

want to go to Michigan.

Ensemble member.

experience would be irreplaceable.”

exchange for a love offering. Third, they will

The UC Trumpet Ensemble will bring Joe

“I’m doing this to make myself a better trum-

Since the location of the conference isn’t

be participating in the Brass Studio

Burgstaller to UC on April 15, 2013.

pet player and to gain knowledge from

that far away, for the first time, The UC

Fundraiser concert that will be held on March

Burgstaller is an internationally acclaimed

Burgstaller on different techniques,” added

Trumpet Ensemble has the chance to go.

5 at 7:30 p.m. in the Nell Moore Recital Hall.

trumpeter and one of the longest standing

UC senior and ensemble member David

However, in order to go, the ensemble needs

If you are interested in helping the UC

members of the Canadian Brass, The UC

Harris,.

to raise $3,500-$4,000.

Trumpet Ensemble members reach these

Trumpet Ensemble is working with the

The trumpet ensemble members have

“I think it would be an amazing opportu-

goals, come to the Brass Studio Fundraiser

Madison Community Band in Richmond, KY

also decided to attend the 2013 International

nity to go to Michigan because I personally

concert and enjoy some great music, or help

to raise the $3,000 it costs to bring

Trumpet Guild Conference in Allendale,

don’t think I’ll ever get a chance to go on this

by buying coffee. Also, if you would enjoy

Burgstaller to eastern Kentucky. Burgstaller

Michigan from June 10 through June 15.

kind of trip again. It would be an amazing

having The UC Trumpet Ensemble perform

will perform with the Madison Community

The International Trumpet Guild is an organ-

experience for all of us to get to go to some-

at your church, for your special occasion or to

Band on April 14 and then travel to UC on

ization filled with over 5,000 members that

thing that big and phenomenal…I mean, this

find out more information, contact the facul-

April 15 to offer master classes and lessons

range from students, teachers, professionals

is going into my profession so it will be a big

ty advisor for The UC Trumpet Ensemble, Dr.

during the day and present a concert at 7:30

and trumpet enthusiasts alike that represent

asset to me in the future,” said Howard.

Patrick Tuck, at patrick.tuck@ucumber-

p.m. in the Nell Moore Recital Hall that

over 50 countries.

How do they plan on raising enough

lands.edu or 606-539-4332 or the ensemble

The director of The UC Trumpet

money for these two events? First, they are

director, Justin Byrd at jbyrd7896@ucumber-

“As far as Joe Burgstaller coming, I think

Ensemble, Justin Byrd, is a senior music

working on having a “School Spirit Coffee”

lands.edu.

it’s a huge asset for us to be able to have

major with an emphasis in trumpet. He said,

sale, which is a company that sells coffee to

someone like that on campus. For us to be

“I personally want to attend the conference

organizations in order for them to re-sell and

evening.

The official student publication of the University of the Cumberlands

News 7

Housing meeting boasts big changes

BY: RYAN POYNTER, Staff Writer TIMOTHY WYATT, Staff Writer AND SHELBY MUFF, Staff Writer

The University of the Cumberlands held

thing,” said James McKnight, current resi-

In addition to the change in housing, a few

study or hang out during hours that they

an optional housing meeting in the Gatliff

dent hall director of Moss Hall. “It’s interest-

less controversial announcements were made.

weren’t previously offered.

Chapel on Monday, Feb. 25 to announce two

ing for me because I’ll be switching dorms,

After spring break, a semester-long hiatus

Those with questions or comments about

of the biggest changes to men’s and women’s

so I get a new building and more residents

will end as soft drinks and other beverages

any of these announcements can contact

on-campus

years.

and a bigger staff. I’m excited about that.

will again be included in the meal plan at the

Linda Carter, dean of student life, directly in

Beginning in the fall of 2013, Moss Hall—

Plus, the guys [on campus] really do need

Patriot Steakhouse. This has been a highly

Student

which currently houses men—will become a

that extra space.”

requested change since those drinks were

linda.carter@ucumberlands.edu

housing

in

recent

women’s residence hall, and Hutton Hall— which

currently

houses

women—will

become a men’s residence hall.

Though the response to the announcement was generally positive, not everyone

removed from the meal exchange plan in fall of 2012.

was pleased with the change. “I saw a few

A coffee shop will also be opening in The

The University of the Cumberlands’

girls and guys who looked like they were

Grill around the same time. It will operate

housing staff hopes that this change will help

bummed out by the news,” said Kenny

between 10 p.m. and 12 a.m.—after The Grill

to alleviate some of the pressure they felt this

Newton, a senior religion major at University

typically stops offering meals—and serve

fall when trying to find places for all of the

of the Cumberlands. “Some people have been

coffee, soft drinks and many snack foods.

men registered to live on campus. This

living in those dorms for three or four years

Nothing will operate on meal exchange at all;

change will take approximately 60 unused

by now. It’s become kind of like home to

instead, all items from the coffee shop can be

spaces for students in women’s housing and

them. The change is totally necessary, but I

purchased using cash or credit card. This will

give them to men’s housing.

can see how some people might be sad

gives students living on campus—or even

because of it.”

commuters—a central place to meet up to

“I think the change is a really good

The official student publication of the University of the Cumberlands

Services,

or

by

email

at

8 Creative

Previously in The Experimental War: Ashaan, the leader of the human colony on Planet 20, was leading a "hunting" party when they started doing battle with an alien

species they call Lizards. Shinzar, the leader of the aliens, was leading his troops in defense against the humans when he saw there were only ten of his troop left, so he

ordered a retreat. Although some disagreed, Ashaan ordered the humans to not follow when he had a startling memory of his own interrogation, for he could not remember

The official student publication of the University of the Cumberlands

anything a week before waking up on Planet 20, and he learned that both species had been brainwashed to act as warring pawns in a horrific plot of genocide.

Creative 9

T

wo days later. Light slowly started to

seep into Ashaan’s eyes as he rolled over and woke up. He was in his house, a small hut made out of tree limbs; sun light came through the cracks in between. The bed under him felt comfortable, the only thing in his life that felt like this beside his family. There was whispering outside the door, but he had great hearing. "He isn't sick, I've checked him for every sign," came from the voice of his wife, Dreka.

Bachee replied in condemnation, “He’s mind sick, that's the reason why there are no physical symptoms. All the time we carried him back here he kept ranting about a plot of genocide of the Lizards on another planet, being forced into doing something, and realizing the Lizards are innocent creatures who don't deserve this. Tell me how that isn't being mind sick. Your just defending him because your his pet wife and would rather stand beside him than face the truth!"

Anger ran through Ashaan's mind at hearing these words, he wanted to run out and punch him right in the face, but decided against it. After a few more minutes Dreka came into the hut, acting as if the conversation outside hadn't taken place. She saw that Ashaan was awake and came beside him, kneeling down. Looking deeply into her eyes, Ashaan brought his head up and they exchanged a passionate kiss.

"Am I really mind sick, Dreka?" Dreka stared at him in complete shock. He could tell she was stumbling for words.

"Um, of course not. I was only agreeing with him as to not attract suspicion."

"You don't have to lie to me Dreka, I'm sure I seemed out of my mind. Has Bachee taken over for me in my absence?" Ashaan sat up, rubbing his head and eyes.

"Yes, he has. More men have joined the hunting party. They took out an entire Lizard

patrol, except for their leader, he always

shaven face and wore a white shirt, black

The schematics for a bomb that would kill the

seems to escape." Ashaan held back how

pants, and a white lab coat. “Just wanted to

Lizards without harming humans came up.

much it hurt him to hear that. He knew the

let you know that I'm all refocused and will

He had to find the weakness in this bomb or

purpose of this war and it scared him to

be joining the hunting party tomorrow.” The

in its formula.

death. He walked outside and the sunlight hit

man slightly chuckled under his breath.

“I knew it would be you.” Turning

his eyes with an onslaught. Everyone was

“We’ll see.” They knew he knew what

around, Ashaan saw the clean-cut man with a

moving around in the course of daily duties.

was going on. Ashaan walked away from the

couple of men behind him. “Put him in the

He found his men reloading their laser rifles

building and back to his home. His two sons

restraints on the back wall.” The men came

and preparing for another hunt. As he made

were playing behind the hut, joy on their

towards him, so he raised the laser pistol to

his way toward them Bachee got into his

faces as they played in the dirt. As soon as he

fire. A blast hit him in the shoulder of the arm

path.

entered through the door, Dreka was there to

with that held the laser pistol and the gun

welcome him back.

dropped; a man with a laser rifle had stayed

“Ashaan, where do you think you’re going?” As he stared into the eyes of his sec-

“How did it go?” He could tell that she

outside the building and quickly reacted to

ond-in-command, Ashaan saw the potential

hoped he had gotten everything worked out.

the situation. The guards drug him to the wall

for betrayal in them.

“It went good.” That’s all he could get out

and clamped his arms in the restraints. The

“You’re right Bachee, I just wanted to get

and afterwards he laid down in his bed. The

clean-shaven man motioned for the other

back out there. I can’t rest easy knowing

white coats were involved with the genocide

men to leave. He walked over beside Ashaan,

they’re out there you know.” He couldn’t

plan; he felt it in his gut. What they were

pushed a button on the wall, and the section

believe he was having to lie like this.

doing though, that was the question. He

around them started moving downwards. The

would have to watch them closely.

platform came to a stop in a lower room. The

“I understand Ashaan, but the men worry about you. They think your mind sick, can’t

When Ashaan awoke, he raised up, rub-

clean-shaven man in the white coat walked

say I blame them. The white coats also heard

bing the sleep out of his eyes. Dreka came to

off the platform, grabbed a chair, set it in

what you were saying and said that you need-

him and handed him apiece of paper.

front of Ashaan, and sat down in it. "Do you

ed to take a couple of days to get refocused.”

"I found this under the door." Ashaan

remember me?" A flashback ran through

The white coats, in the rush of everything

opened the folded piece of paper. He read

Ashaan's mind of the man in front of him giv-

Ashaan had forgotten about them. They had

what was written and he discovered that the

ing him a shot.

been here since everyone had woken up a

white coats had constructed a bio bomb; they

"Dr. Kingard?" Ashaan thought the name

week and two days ago. No one questioned

were planning on exterminating the Lizards

must have surfaced from the memory. The

what the white coats said; they were consid-

tomorrow. He did not know where this infor-

clean-shaven man gave a slight smirk.

ered the leaders of the humans. There were

mation came from, but he did know that he

“So, you are remembering. We knew you

two metal buildings for the white coats, one

had to break into the building where the white

would be trouble. The way you fought

they stayed in all day and one they stayed in

coats worked.

against this, it was a stupid kind of heroic. I

at night. Ashaan had never questioned their

Adrenaline coursed through Ashaan’s

have to admit though; I didn’t expect you to

existence here before, but now a suspicion of

veins as he made his way to the metal build-

break through the mind wipe. Now here you

them had grown in his mind ever since that

ing, a laser pistol in his left hand. In a quick

are, chained up in a hut, left to die. The bio

memory had flooded through his head.

motion the gun was pointed at the lock on the

bomb will be released tomorrow and thus will

“That’s probably true, come to think of it,

door and fired. The sound was not very loud

start our plan. I am going to leave you here to

I think I could use some more rest. First

and the lock fell off, melted. Ashaan opened

think of your failed plan to stop us, major.”

though, I’m going to check in with them.”

the door quickly and closed it just as quick.

Dr. Kingard got up, walked across the

Bachee gave him a death stare, but Ashaan

Inside it was dark except for the light coming

room and exited through a door that lead back

just walked past him and up to the door of the

from a square machine on a table. The mem-

to the upper room. Ashaan looked up in shock

first metal building. As he knocked, Ashaan

ory of seeing one of these machines and how

and horror as the door closed.

heard footsteps on the floor and then the door

to operate it flashed in his mind. He found the

opened. The man in front of him had a clean

button labeled “recent designs” and pushed it.

To be concluded in our April issue...

The official student publication of the University of the Cumberlands

10 Q & A

An Interview with Silas House: Writing in Appalachia

BY KRISTINA SMITH Staff Writer

Growing up in the small town of Lily,

feelings for you about the area, why do so

Ky., Silas House emerged from the back-

many of your novels cling to this setting? Do

woods of Appalachia to become a New York

you ever consider branching out?

Times best-selling author. Writer of five nov-

House: I have the most to say about this part

els, four plays, countless music articles, and

of the world. My novels are more interesting

environmental columns, House pursued a

because of these mixed feelings I have.

writing career from early on in his life.

Everything I have written has been set in the

With a bachelor’s degree in English from

region except for my fourth novel, “Eli the

Eastern Kentucky University, House contin-

Good,” which is set in a sort of unnamed

ued on to Spaulding University to receive a

region of the United States because I wanted

master’s degree in creative writing.

it to be Anywhere, USA instead of being so

Then, at age 29, House published his first

centralized in Appalachia. I

novel “Clay’s Quilt” which launched him

t's a very American story, so I wanted to

into stardom. This small-town man turned

make sure that I didn't get too much

celebrity took a moment to speak with me

Appalachian sense of place in there. And my

about his love-hate relationship with

new novel, “Little Fire,” is set in Key West,

Appalachia, his work as a novelist and draw-

Florida but the three main characters are all

ing from his own life experiences to create

from the rural South, and one is Appalachian.

his masterpieces.

Even if I stray from Appalachia I think my

Q: Most everyone knows you as an

novels will always have to feature a rural pro-

Appalachian writer; tell me a little bit about

tagonist because that's simply the world I

living in the area.

identify with the best, and the world that I am

House: I have such complex feelings about

most interested in writing about.

this place. I love it, but I hate it, too. I love its

Q: Where do you draw most of your ideas for

mountains and creeks and so many things

writing from?

about its people: their strength, determina-

House: My first three novels were heavily

tion, wit, etc. But I also hate how small-mind-

fictionalized retellings of my own family's

ed and backward Appalachia can be.

story of living in Appalachia over the course

I hate the way that we let the coal compa-

of the 20th century. My fourth novel was

nies convince us that they are good for us

inspired by my childhood as the son of a

when they are actually doing us more harm

Vietnam vet and my own feelings about the

than good, the way that we fear anyone who

divisions caused by political parties in our

is different, the way we fear education.

country. My fifth novel was inspired by my

Q: So, if there are so many things conflicting

love for letter-writing and the pen pal I had as

Photo courtesy of Shepherd University. a young boy.

House: The hardest part of the job is finding

My new novel was inspired by my

fresh ideas. A novelist hardly ever has a set

thoughts on parenthood, especially the way

way of getting an idea for a novel. Ideas

fathers aren't treated as seriously as parents as

come to us in many different and unexpected

mothers are, and by my feelings about

ways. Be patient. Ideas will come.

inequality in modern America and how we are all part of the problem if we are not sticking up for equality.

Q: What advice would you give to any aspiring writers out there?

The official student publication of the University of the Cumberlands

Q&A

11

His Life as an Experiment An Interview with New York Times best-selling author A.J. Jacobs

BY RYAN POYNTER Staff Writer

The world is filled with people every-

and then writing about them. How do you

ly positively honest, saying how much I

those men and women of faith. This has been

where looking for a place to fit into. An expe-

decide what experiments you’d like to try?

appreciate people. The one about the Bible

true of all the experiments in which you dive

rience we all share is the sometimes fruitless

How big of an impact does your family have

[affected me most], because it gave me a new

into other cultures or lifestyles. Are you com-

search to find an identity. As the author of

on these decisions?

view of the world. I like to see the world as a

pletely conscious of this? Is it a major priori-

“The Year of Living Biblically,” “The Guinea

A.J. Jacobs: I try to do experiments that fas-

series of responsibilities, not a series of

ty?

Pig Diaries,” ‘Drop Dead Healthy” and “The

cinate me. Like religion fascinated me, so I

rights.

A.J.: It’s easy to make fun of people different

Know-It-All” – all New York Times best-sell-

did “The Year of Living Biblically.” My wife

RP: You’ve been experimenting almost con-

from yourself. I think it’s a more interesting

ers – A.J. Jacobs has found several.

has veto power, so she often puts the kibosh

stantly for the past several years. Have you

challenge to try to find the good in people,

He’s best known to his readers as the guy

on my ideas. I wanted to communicate solely

found a comfortable balance between being

even if you disagree with them.

who spent a year following the Bible com-

by social media for a month, but she said no

the A.J. in an experiment and being the A.J.

RP: Because of the success you’ve seen from

pletely literally, or as the guy who outsourced

way. I need to do less traveling now that I

you are at work, or with your family? Doing

your books, do you ever feel typecast as an

his entire life to India (including arguments

have my kids. So, many of my experiment

all of that at once, how do you find the time

author now? Have you become “the experi-

with his wife and reading bedtime stories to

ideas (living in Antarctica, etc.) just won’t

to write?

ments guy”? Do you still have opportunities

his children), or as the only guy who experi-

work anymore.

A.J.: There’s no clear distinction between my

to write more traditionally?

enced online dating as a woman and actively

RP: Have any of the experiments you’ve

off-work self and on-work self. But my fam-

A.J.: I do turn down a lot of experiments

chose to tell people about it, but he is known

written about so far had any lasting effects on

ily is very tolerant. And though my wife com-

from other magazines now. There’s only so

by his family mostly as A.J., the husband and

you and your lifestyle choices? Have they

plains, I think she finds it interesting at some

much time. But I like writing profiles.

father. I had the opportunity to talk with him

had any lasting effects on your relationships

level. But it’s hard. And I think I’m getting

RP: Last question. Do you think you’ll ever

about how his family feels about his work,

with friends or family? Which experiment,

less productive over the years. My first book

feel any pressure to continue experimenting?

how he finds the time to write, and how he’s

overall, has affected your life the most?

I wrote with a full-time job. Now I could

Do you worry that the market for these exper-

embraced the role as “the experiments guy.”

A.J.: Absolutely, lots of lasting effects. I still

never do that.

imental books will fade or you will run out of

Ryan Poynter: You’ve made a name for

have extreme gratitude I learned from living

RP: In “The Year of Living Biblically,” you

ideas?

yourself as an author and really helped to

Biblically. I still practice the Sabbath. Now I

manage to find a comfortable balance

A.J.: I like ideas of all kinds, so I have book

popularize the field of immersion journalism

go to a synagogue. I write on my treadmill

between being transparent in your experi-

ideas in different genres. I plan to write those

by conducting these experiments on your life

from the health experiment. And I am radical-

ences and opinions and being respectful of

books… Someday.

The official student publication of the University of the Cumberlands

12 Photos

Spring Renewal Photos by Abbey Cherry

The lead singer for the band Live Fish prays in between worship sets.

Junior Patrick Rowe of the Disciples Drama Team demonstrates Jesus dying on the cross in their performance on Tuesday night for Spring Renewal.

The Disciples Drama Team portrays the biblical story of Abraham offering up his son, Issac, and God intervening.

The official student publication of the University of the Cumberlands

13 Photos

Freshmen Bethany Yonts worships through music.

Guest speaker Albert Jones from Main Street Baptist Church talks about obedience in out relationship with Jesus.

Junior Julie Paris reads along in her Bible during the preaching.

The official student publication of the University of the Cumberlands

14 Five Things...

The official student publication of the University of the Cumberlands

Five Things...

15

Jared Coleman: Five things I wish I’d known before leaving UC

BY RYAN POYNTER Staff Writer

For most of us, the University of the

they’re not anything like the fun things to do

FSU and saw things from the other side, I

Cumberlands is not a permanent home. Jared

around the Cumberlands. I miss UC sporting

never knew how awesome it was that I could

Coleman, a first-year graduate student at

events, and my professors, and the moun-

walk into any of my professor’s offices at any

the inside of President Taylor’s house looks

Florida State University and recent graduate

tains.

time and they would stop and talk to me. The

like. This may sound dumb, but one of my

of the University of the Cumberlands, knows

2.

I wish I knew how convenient the

small class sizes and available professors

biggest regrets is that I never took one of the

this as well as anyone. He left Cumberlands

Cumberlands is. Seriously. I never thought

made such a difference for me, and I took

opportunities (like after the Hanging of the

in May of 2012 and, since then, he's come to

about how awesome it was that I never had to

advantage of that.

Green) to go inside the Taylor’s house, I

realize just how much he misses being here.

cook, clean, or drive. Yes, the cafeteria food

Here are his top five things he wishes he had known before leaving the Cumberlands.

4.

I left.

5.

I wish I had found out before what

I wish I knew how great of a com-

always had something else to do. I guess this

wasn’t always the greatest, but it was conven-

munity there is at the Cumberlands. During

speaks to a bigger thing I wish I had known

ient, and – more importantly – consistent.

my last year at Cumberland, I spent a lot of

before leaving the Cumberlands. It feels like

I wish I knew how much there is to

Yeah, I had to keep my room clean (kind of),

time alone. It was just a difficult period of

you have been there forever, but the time you

“do” in Williamsburg. A common complaint I

but I never had to clean a toilet, or do my

life, a lot of transitions going on, and many

have is seriously fleeting, and it will be gone

often heard (and made) during my time in at

dishes. I could literally walk to everything I

things I was working on that were not in the

before you know it. Don’t put off things that

the Cumberlands was that there was nothing

needed. That's not something I can do any-

area. I often forgot to cherish the community

you want to accomplish until another day,

to do. But I know now that that is false. I now

more.

that is at the Cumberlands. It is full of great

because one day that will involve you pack-

live in a city with around 100,000 college

3.

I wish I knew how much the profes-

people who truly care about one another. I

ing your bags and checking out of the dorm

students and there is still nothing for me to

sors really care about their students. I always

wish I had known how much I would miss

for the last time.

do. Sure, there are more places to go, but

knew they did, of course, but until I came to

that and that I had appreciated it more before

1.

Marianne Worthington: Five things I wish I’d known about online editing

BY TIMOTHY WYATT Staff Writer

In case you weren’t aware, it is the age of

tions the better part of 10 years now.

experience.

I didn’t necessarily need to know how to

prejudice against online (versus traditional/print) publishing.

the internet. Anything and everything you

Something she is a little newer to is editing

could ever imagine to find is virtually at your

for those publications. Worthington is co-

do code, but I needed to know how to make

fingertips. One of the most popular, and

founder and poetry editor of stilljournal.net, a

things look inviting and I didn’t know how to

magazines first started, you know, making

largely growing, online trends is publishing.

site devoted to offering “the finest in contem-

do that. I still don’t really know how to do

the rounds, but in literary terms, if you were

Almost all newspapers and magazines now

porary

that.

going to be a published poet or published fic-

have online versions to accompany their

Appalachia,” for a little over three years.

3. I wish I’d done more research in using

tion or non-fiction writer, you had to be in

“free” websites.

traditional print journals. An online journal

daily or monthly issues.

Hundreds of thousands of blogs are circu-

literary

writing

of

Central

While she may be well adept at her craft now, at one time she was a rookie

We used a “free” website because we did-

I don’t think this is as true as when online

was less prestigious. I think a lot of that has

lating the web every day by known and

too. Here are five things Worthington wished

n’t have any money. We still don’t have

changed…mostly due to journals like the

unknown writers alike. If one were to get

she had known, or known more about, when

any money and we are still using a “free”

“The Cortland Review, which was one of the

technical, every time you post a witty Tweet

stepping into the world of online publishing:

website. First off, it’s not really free. It’s not

first literary journals to go completely online.

a lot, but it’s not really free. And then you’re

5. I wish I’d had more meetings with my

limited in how much you can and can’t do.

co-editors.

or Facebook status, you’re publishing. But let’s narrow that scope down a little and focus on the prior—official online publications.

1. I wish I’d had more design experience.

Online publications are all different and I

So, our design and our scope and our ability

I have two other co-editors, and we all

didn’t have any design experience. So,

to do certain things were limited because we

teach and work, so it is difficult to have

and Journalism Marianne Worthington has

that’s obvious, right?

were using a “free” website.

face time together to make planning deci-

Been writing for numerous online publica-

2. I wish I’d had more html/online posting

4. I wish I’d known some writers still have

sions for each issue.

Associate Professor of Communication

The official student publication of the University of the Cumberlands

16 Five Things...

Emily Scott: Five things I wish I’d known about tap dancing

BY JANNICA BRADY Staff Writer

Emily Scott, a sophomore at the

brand of tap shoes. The better the brand, the

be able to do the difficult stuff in the begin-

your ankles is the key factor in tap dancing.

University of the Cumberlands, attends Town

more expensive the shoes. It all really

ning, but if you practice you will have it

5. Wear proper clothing.

and Village School of Dance in her home-

depends on what your teacher requires from

down in no time.

town of Paris, Kentucky. Scott has been tap

you.

3. Feel the rhythm.

dancing for a few years now and really enjoys

2. Be flexible.

Jeans and a t-shirt is not going to cut it.

Most instructors require you to wear a uni-

Tap dancing is all about feeling the beat

tard, tights and shorts. Also, remember to put

of the song. Every move you make must go

your hair in a ponytail to keep it out of your

and dance moves.

tiptoes. In order to do this without hurting

along with the music.

way.

1. Shoes are expensive.

yourself, you will need to stretch and increase

4. It’s all in the ankle NOT the foot.

Some moves require you to stand on your

spending her spare time learning her routines

You have to make sure you get a good

your flexibility. Just remember you will not

The ankle is the key. The movement of

Kristin Gotch: Five things I wish I’d known about being a music journalist

BY BRANDY NORMAN Staff Writer

1. I wish I would have known not to be so

pretty cool and eager to talk about their work.

Take it slow. Enjoy writing the pieces.

nervous.

2. I wish I would have known that my

4. I wish I would have known that writing

opinion has a sense of authority.

is lonely.

You can certainly (and should, of course)

don't always get to write what you want to write.

Sometimes you get the leftovers (and

plan for an interview, but it's hard to antici-

Critics have a power of influence and you

When you’re sitting by yourself, listening

trust me, not all music is easy to write about),

pate what the other person will say in any sit-

can say what you really think. Don't be afraid

to a bunch of albums, it doesn't give you

but try to have fun with it anyway. Stick with

uation. Come prepared, yes, but let the inter-

to exercise that power.

much time for a social life. Writing takes time

it.

view go where it wants to go. Musician's can

3. I wish I would have known not to take

and dedication.

be awkward or rude...but most of them are

on so much work all at once.

5. I wish I would have known that you

Justin Durbin: Five things I wish I’d known about public speaking

BY ALEX WILLIAMS Staff Writer

This is Durbin’s fifth year on UC’s

1) Do the extra research.

award-winning Speech and Debate team

Any additional sources you can put in

where he serves as co-captain. He has won

will definitely help bolster your argument.

5th place in the novice communication analy-

When I started, I would just do the minimum

sis at The National Christian College of Forensic Invitational, Superior speaker at Pi

that means you’ve got to practice.

Knowing your notes is one thing, but

3) Don’t be afraid to collaborate with

know where you’re going with it.

others.

5) Everyone has to do it.

If you are spit-balling on a topic you’re

Don’t sweat it. Everyone has been where

work but going the extra mile helps.

having before you present it, you might want

you are now and most people have to give a

2) Be prepared.

to run it by a couple of people to get new

presentation eventually.

Kappa Delta National Tournament in 2009,

Don’t just read through it a couple of

ideas, perspectives or realize that there’s an

was former vice-president of The Kentucky

times and think you got it because you have a

area of your speech you need more work on.

Forensic Association, and much more.

notecard with you. Be able to do it, even if

4) Take notes and organize.

The official student publication of the University of the Cumberlands

Opinion

That funny thing:

17

Relationships

BY TIMOTHY WYATT Staff Writer

Relationships are a funny thing. Whether we realize it or not, we all have relationships

now, he stays that awkward kid in the back of

field with one another. Some are more impor-

ship to invest any meaning in it, and at some

class.

tant than others. You may love both of your

point, I followed suit.

parents equally, but you probably have a

with every individual we ever encounter.

Go one step further and think of your sig-

What makes that relationship important

nificant other. Our boyfriends, girlfriends,

though, is the weight we attribute to it.

“ we all hold the ability to be something more... ”

It isn’t something we think about often, but we use this sort of system for everything…and always have. The only reason anything has a meaning is because we say that it does.

favorite.

At some point, all of our friends were

husbands, or wives, most likely, were once

Some people, like me, have a parent or

strangers. That awkward kid that sits in the

just our friends. And before that they were

parents that we may look at as strangers. In

back of every class could very well be your

what? Are you catching on?

my case, it was my dad. Biologically, he may

best friend, but you haven’t attempted to give

Each relationship has different levels or

be my father, but that is almost the extent of

that relationship any sort of meaning. So, for

tiers, too. Not all your friends are on a level

it. He didn’t care enough about the relation-

The official student publication of the University of the Cumberlands

My point is that we all hold the ability to be something more to the person next to us and vice-versa. Thank that person who holds the door for you. Help that person who dropped all their books in the hallway.

Acknowledge that awkward kid who sits in the back of class. Invest in other people.

Invest in people you don’t know.

It will make your life better.

18

Features

Finishing Strong

BY KASEY MALONE Staff Writer AND

BY NATASHA JONES Assistant Editor

Angel Johnson, freshmen ponders her priorities.

Photo by Whitley West

There are a few weeks every school year

Typically teachers, educational advisors and

that are especially challenging to College stu-

any other members of campus have probably

One of the most difficult aspects of the

not give up until the final has been taken.

dents. Two of them would be the week of

given you study tips, a syllabus, or even pos-

last few weeks is that burning desire to spend

Finish those few things left on the to-do list

finals during Spring and Fall Semester. The

sibly extra credit to help you succeed. Use

as much time as you can even fathom with

and don’t count yourself out until the grade is

other one would be the first few weeks back

this to your advantage and take the help that

your friends; this is in no way bad, but can be

posted.

to school after Spring Break

is being offered to you.

harmful to your academics. Don’t sacrifice

You’ve done everything you can.

study time to just “hang out.” Make the

Hopefully, you have achieved the grades, fin-

All students have trouble getting back

Take time to yourself or study together.

there are still things to be taken care of. Do

into their routine after a week of relaxation

Keep the confidence High, there is still a

choice to study or work on homework. And

ished the projects, and received the credits

and rest. We want to give you some helpful

chance.

even if you are just dying to be with those

that are leading you to graduation and/or to

study tips and words of motivation to help

The school year is not over. Classes are

people close to you, make it a study group

the summer. Remember, you’re hitting the

you finish the school year strong and avoid

not finished. You probably still have home-

and help each other improve while spending

pause button not the stop. Don’t quit at spring

finding yourself in a funk after returning back

work assignments you need to do, papers to

that quality time.

break. Giving it your all will only give you a

to campus.

write, and tests to take which means there is still a chance for success. Remain confident

Take Advantage of what’s there for you.

Remember what you’re here for. In case you have to ask, it’s to get an education.

that you can finish that class with a high grade.

more satisfying summer break.

Don’t quit yet.

Just because finals are around the corner and you may have missed some assignments or didn’t do so well on some tests or papers,

The official student publication of the University of the Cumberlands

Features

19

Get fit for summer Spring break is right around the corner. Here are a few tips to help you look your best.

BY CHRISTIN MILLER Editor in cheif

•

• Take the stairs.

Drink up.

Drinking plenty of water is a must. Not

When you’re in a building with elevators

only does it help you stay hydrated when

or stairs, choose the stairs. The extra

you’re working out or going through your

energy spent climbing the stairs and raise

day, it also helps your skin look its best

in your heart rate will burn extra calories

and helps you shine wherever your spring

and give you a quick energy boost.

break takes you. Drinking plenty of water

• Keep a food journal.

also helps flush out any toxins that are in

Keeping a list of your calorie intake will

your body. Add a little lemon juice for fla-

help you keep track of your calorie

vor and it serves as a natural diuretic.

intake and will also help you see where

•

you can cut back and pass on unneeded

Salad, please.

Trade-in your pizza or pasta for a salad.

calories. MyPyramid.org is a free and

This may not be the most appealing

easy way to find out how many calories

option, but there are plenty of things you

you should have each day based on your

can do to flavor it up. Try and mix-it-up

age, activity level and gender. The web-

when it comes to ingredients, by adding

site also offers information on how to eat

raisins. Raisins are filled with natural

healthier.

sources of energy, vitamins, electrolytes,

• Watch your portions.

and minerals that will help you get

This is probably the easiest tip of all. By

through your day. Instead of a more fatty

simply not overeating, you save yourself

dressing like ranch or bleu cheese, use

from having to take the long route or

French or Italian – they have a lesser

stairs to burn off unneeded calories. To

amount of fat content. Top off your salad

help keep you from over eating, try using

with some sunflower seeds. Sunflower

a smaller plate.

seeds are filled with essential fatty acids

While the task of losing a few pounds or

as well as vitamins and minerals that your

simply trying to not gain any may seem

body needs.

daunting, keep these easy tips in mind

•

and you’ll have no problem at all.

Take the long route.

When you have time, take the longer route to class. A few extra steps can add up to extra calories burned.

The official student publication of the University of the Cumberlands

20

Technology Corner New Products to Watch out for: 1.) Samsung Galaxy S4: Rumored to pos-

schedule due to heavy competition from

sess a full-HD screen with a pixel density

Samsung and LG recently. Expect a larger,

nearly 50percenthigher than the iPhone5, this

more detailed screen and probably a new

is definitely the next big phone to look for.

trick or two from Apple. Expected release:

Expected release: April or May 2013.

Expected June 2013.

We asked: What are your plans for spring break?

“I’m babysitting, observing students, and doing lots of sleeping,” said freshman history major Alaina Jackson.

2.) Asus Transformer Book: Basically, it’s

Ask TechTalk

an ultrabook which has a detachable screen

Have any questions related to technology?

“I might be going on a mission trip to Colorado or traveling around

that functions as a high-powered Windows 8

Shoot an email to

Kentucky,” said senior missions and ministry major Kenny Newton.

tablet. Expected release: Unknown, but most

caleb.vander.ark@gmail.com. Your question

likely within four to six months.

may be featured in the next edition of The Patriot!

Apple iPhone 5s/iPhone 6: Less than a few weeks after the release of the iPhone 5, news was already surfacing of its successor. Apple

“Possibly leading a BCM mission trip to Panama City called Beach Reach,” said 5th year senior human services major Casey Hamm.

may be pursuing a more aggressive release

“Going back home to Louisville to chill with my friends,” said freshman fitness and sports management Craig Trotter.

“I’m doing field experience for my education basic concepts class,” said freshman education major Samantha Stuckwisch.

“I’m going home to Washington State,” said freshman and criminal justice major Jasmine Minke.

“We’re thinking of going to Florida,” said freshman business major Kevin Baker and freshman undeclared major Cameron Smoak.

The official student publication of the University of the Cumberlands

21

The official student publication of the University of the Cumberlands

22

Sports

In my opinion:

The girlfriend that never was

BY TIMOTHY WYATT Staff Writer

“ Is it possible he really didn’t know?”

You may not be a sports fan, but chances

Mental disorders are a serious thing, and

ly-deceased-Kekua and January, yet he con-

he should have known better to start with.

are you’ve heard of this year’s Heisman

I’m not here to debate whether or not either

tinued to play along with the story. Te’o has

Long-distance relationships have very poor

Trophy runner-up and Notre Dame stand-out

of these guys are suffering from one. That is

since said to multiple sources that he fabricat-

statistics and those with people you don’t

Manti Te’o… and his girlfriend (or the lack

a topic all on its own. Regardless, it is clear

ed some details during that time as an attempt

even know have to be worse.

thereof). If not, here is a refresher:

that this whole situation was a bit off the wall.

to not come of looking like a crazy person

And it seems that our great nation doesn’t

Again: who is crazier? I would have to say

that falls in love with people he has never

cut you any slack for being duped. A recent

1.) Te’o had a long-distance relationship with

it’s Tuiasosopo. The guy created a false iden-

met.

poll by Nielson and E-Poll found Te’o in sec-

a “girl” he had never met named Lennay

tity, threw his voice in phone conversations

Is it possible he really didn’t know she

ond place for “the most disliked athlete in

Kekua.

and lifted photos off of a woman’s Facebook

was a fake person until that December phone

America,” behind only Lance Armstrong

2.) Kekua had leukemia.

account to use as Kekua. Anyone that would

call? Yeah, sure. Honestly, I’d say there is a

which is a little ridiculous when you think

3.) In September of 2012, Kekua “died.”

go through so much trouble just to form a

better chance that he is just a sucker than an

about it. Te’o is now lumped together with

4.) In December of 2012, Kekua called Te’o.

fake relationship with someone has to have

accomplice. I mean, if I were to fall for some

Armstrong—who cheated, lied, ruined peo-

5.) Kekua was actually a guy named Ronaiah

some sort of issues, right?

random woman online that I didn’t personal-

ple’s careers, lives and basically robbed them

Te’o has vehemently denied his involve-

ly know, A.) my wife would kill me, and B.)

out of tons of money—yet, all Te’o did was

hoax

ment in the hoax, but answers he gave in past

I wouldn’t tell anyone either. And if I found

have

because, as he told Dr. Phil, he “was in love

interviews about Kekua didn’t match-up with

out that woman was actually a guy? Forget

Internet “girlfriend” that died, came back to

with Te’o.”

answers he gave after the story broke in

about it; ain’t nobody hearing that story.

life and, unfortunately, turned out to be a guy.

Tuiasosopo, who had elaborated this giant

Sound crazy? That’s because it is. The real question: who is crazier?

January. He even did a series of interviews

Don’t let that last paragraph fool you into

with news outlets such as ESPN between the

thinking I’m in Te’o’s corner. He just has the

time he had received the call from supposed-

most relatable angle in this debacle. I believe

The official student publication of the University of the Cumberlands

a

fake,

hyped-out-of-proportion,

Entertainment 23

Before Your Very Eyes… REVIEW: Atoms For Peace’s ‘Amok’

BY MATTHEW WILLIAMS

But does the much-anticipated album live

ing popping synth-beats, Yorke’s falsetto

up to everything that fans thought it would

singing, and the lack of a traditional pop-song

In no way is Amok a bad album, and in

be? Is it truly the answer to the equation

format, i.e., no identifiable chorus. “Default”

many ways, it’s a great album. But, Thom

It’s taken four years for Radiohead’s

“Radiohead + the Red Hot Chili Peppers =

suffers, though, in the same sense that

Yorke has focused too heavily on wanting to

Thom Yorke to unveil an album from his

musical perfection?” With as long as Yorke

Radiohead’s King of Limbs went wrong, as it

make an electro-pop dance album like his

much talked about side project Atoms For

has made his devoted fans wait, expectations

seems the track is on repeat, as after the song

buddies from Modeselektor. Debuts are

Peace. Originating as a live band in support

were high. Unfortunately, Atoms For Peace’s

gets going, it doesn’t really change, besides a

sometimes a tricky thing to get right. Just

of his solo album The Eraser, the electro-rock

debut Amok falls a little short of everything

few synth-strings fading in. “Default,” like a

look at Radiohead or the Red Hot Chili

band features Yorke, famed Radiohead pro-

Yorke has built up to this point.

lot of the album, is Thom Yorke’s inner DJ

Peppers. Neither of their first albums are

Staff Writer

“What the Eyeballs Did.”

ducer Nigel Godrich, Beck and R.E.M. drum-

The album opener “Before Your Very

coming out, as he simply wants a beat to

regarded as being masterpieces, but both

mer Joey Waronker, percussionist Mauro

Eyes…” starts off strong, with Radiohead-

dance to while holding one end of a pair of

bands went on to create some of the most rec-

Refosco, and most notably, Red Hot Chili

like treble guitar and an engaging bass riff

headphones up to his ear and swaying his

ognizable alt-rock records of all time. And

Peppers’ bassist Flea.

that could only be played by Flea. Yorke’s

body back and forth, in typical Thom Yorke

maybe, just maybe, Atoms For Peace will fall

Yorke and company have played a lot of

vocals echo through the track, enveloping

fashion.

into that same category.

shows and several festivals over the last cou-

you in the track, as he surrounds you, in a

ple of years, billed at the events with

singing

of

take advantage of their incredibly talented

monikers such as “ThomYorke??” and the

Radiohead’s “Reckoner.” Electronic influ-

bass player. On most of the songs, the synthe-

ominous and characteristically confusing

ences are obvious, with a steady, manufac-

sizers smother the true bass, making it more

“??????.” It wasn’t until 2010 that Yorke

tured drumbeat that repeats throughout the

of a background noise to be on the lookout

announced over Twitter that his new band

entirety of the track and heavy synthesizers

for. In fact, one of Flea’s best performances

Notable Tracks: “Default” - “Judge, Jury, and

would be called Atoms For Peace, named

that increase the overall bass of the song.

with the band was left off the album, and left

Executioner” - “Dropped”

after a song on his debut solo album.

performance

reminiscent

The first single “Default” follows, featur-

One element the album lacks is it doesn’t

to defend itself as a lonely B-side called

The official student publication of the University of the Cumberlands

✭✭✭

Entertainment

24

Review: Coheed and Cambria’s ‘Afterman: Descension’

BY TIMOTHY WYATT Staff Writer

If you aren’t familiar with Coheed and

sake for the entire series, Sirius Amory. The

“Number City” is hands-down the most

no challenge to pinpoint all the little nuances

Cambria—or CoCa for short—then it may be

story is intricately woven and carefully

interesting piece off “Descension.” There are

that are trademark to Coheed and Cambria.

easy for you to not give this band the chance

thought-out, but so is the music.

so many elements to this track that aren’t nor-

Even though there are one or two forgettable

they deserve. Many will be turned off by lead

Tracks like “The Hard Sell,” “Away We

mally familiar to CoCa, aside from the driv-

tracks, they have created an album that they

vocalist Claudio Sanchez’s signature falsetto

Go” and “2’s My Favorite 1” displays

ing bass line. The main guitar riff is fun,

should be proud of.

or maybe even his giant mane of long, curly

Coheed’s classic sound—a pop-rock mixture

bouncy and almost jazzy. Oh, there are also

hair…also signature. Some may not like that

that boasts nice grooves and lyrics so catchy

horns. And who doesn’t love a little brass in

the band itself is based on a concept.

that they get stuck in your head for days—

their music?

Each album acts as its own chapter in the

while “Sentry the Defiant” is more raw, pri-

“Descension” gives proof to CoCa’s

science-fiction story of “The Amory Wars,”

mal and heavier. This definitely is the

growth and progression as musicians. It also

set in the fictional galaxy of Heaven’s Fence.

“anthem” song of the album.

showcases Sanchez’s increasingly improved

In case you aren’t familiar, think: “Star Wars.”

There is a softer side to this record

ability to draw from real-life experiences to

though. “Iron Fist” and “Dark Side of Me”

form and shape the band’s concept through lyrics.

Their latest album, “The Afterman:

play to the vulnerabilities of their songwriter,

Descension,” delves back to the very begin-

vulnerabilities that everyone can relate to—

ning of the concept, focusing on the name-

namely, regrets.

Nothing on this record sounds like anything they have ever produced before, yet it’s

The official student publication of the University of the Cumberlands

✭✭✭✭

PhD Comics

PhD Comics

The official student publication of the University of the Cumberlands

25

PhD Comics

PhD Comics

The official student publication of the University of the Cumberlands

26

The official student publication of the University of the Cumberlands

The official student publication of the University of the Cumberlands