The Entertainer! Magazine - October 2022

Inside Ray Villafane shares the gourd, the bad and the ugly

JAKE MCCARTHY

Broadway Rd.

AZ 85282

480.348.0343 Fax 480.348.2109

Entertainer!

the Phoenix Metro area, especially concentrated in entertainment districts. ©2022 Affluent Publishing, LLC. A free online subscription is available to all readers simply by going to entertainermag.com/subscribe.

calendar and news items, the deadline for submission is the 15th of the month prior to publication. Submissions are included based on available space and are used at the discretion of the editor. Unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or illustrations will not be returned unless it is specifically requested and submission is accompanied by a properly addressed envelope and sufficient postage. The Entertainer! makes every effort to authenticate claims and accurate times and event locations. We encourage readers to verify information prior to attending events or purchasing tickets.

By Connor Dziawura

TOP25

"Disney on Ice presents Into the Magic"

OCTOBER 6 TO OCTOBER 9

"Disney on Ice" brings the magic to audiences with this show, which fuses classic Disney stories — from films like “Coco,” “Tangled” and “Moana” — with ice skating. Character experiences with photo ops, a dance party, crafting and interactive time are also available. Footprint Center, 201 E. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, 602.379.7878, disneyonice.com/into-the-magic, various dates and times, $20-$125

Four Peaks Oktoberfest

OCTOBER 7 TO OCTOBER 9

Two stages of live entertainment are central to this Oktoberfest celebration, with carnival rides, stein-holding competitions, distance runs, dachshund races, loads of food and drink options, and so much more making for a weekend full of Bavarian fun. Authority Zero and Wyves headline the first night, with The Black Moods and 2 Tone Lizard Kings following on the second day and Voyager and SuperHero closing out the weekend.

Tempe Beach Park, 80 W. Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe, 602.625.3493, fourpeaksoktoberfest.com, 5 p.m. to midnight Friday, 10 a.m. to midnight Saturday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday, $20 for 21 and older (free Sunday)

Goldrush: Neon Dreams

OCTOBER 7 TO OCTOBER 9

Newly relocated to the West Valley, this annual festival that is all-things EDM is back with three days of music and dancing the night away — and the lineup runs deep. On the roster are Chris Lake, Kaskade, Rezz, Seven Lions, Excision, Noizu, Yolanda Be Cool and many, many more. This event is for ages 18 or older. Phoenix Raceway, 7602 Jimmie Johnson Drive, Avondale, goldrushfestaz.com, 6 p.m. each day, $66.75-$1,250

8th Annual Margarita, Mojito, Craft Beer and Food Truck Festival

OCTOBER 8

“I’m a fiend for mojitos,” actor Colin Farrell declared in Michael Mann’s 2006 film adaptation of the 1980s television classic “Miami Vice.” Channel your inner Det. Sonny Crockett with a mojito at this Mesa festival, or partake in any of the annual gathering’s other favorites — margaritas, craft brews and food trucks. There will be unlimited tastings of alcoholic beverages, more than 20 food purveyors and plenty of vendors for shopping, with Boogie Nights, Rock Lobster and DJ Soulman soundtracking the affair. Pets are welcome. The event supports the College Bound AZ Foundation. Riverview Park, 2100 W. Rio Salado Parkway, Mesa, limelightentertainment.com, 4 to 10 p.m., $15-$55 or free for kids 17 and younger

Chris Tucker

OCTOBER 8

Known for his outrageous personality as well as his classic roles in films such as “Friday” with Ice Cube and the “Rush Hour” series with Jackie Chan, Chris Tucker is taking his stand-up on the road and stopping in the East Valley for two shows along the way. These shows are for ages 21 and older. Gila River Resorts & Casinos - Wild Horse Pass, 5040 Wild Horse Pass Boulevard, Chandler, 1.800.WIN.GILA (1.800.946.4452), playatgila. com/show/chris-tucker, 7 p.m. and 10 p.m., $49-$89

Peoria Country Fest

OCTOBER 8

An annual favorite returns to Peoria! A partnership between the city of Peoria and Pleasant Harbor, the Peoria Country Fest features live music, food trucks, a beer garden, and both live and mechanical

bull riding. Weekend camping experiences are available, too. The musical lineup boasts Justin Hitson and Southbound, Billy Shaw Jr. Band, Ryan Bexley and Josh Roy. Pleasant Harbor at Lake Pleasant, 8708 W. Harbor Boulevard, Peoria, 623.203.5173, peoriaaz. gov, 2 to 10 p.m., $10-$75

Film Fest Tucson

OCTOBER 13 TO OCTOBER 15

This Downtown Tucson love letter to cinema programs films on both narrative and documentary subjects, in both feature-length and short formats, compounding its weekend of screenings with filmmaker Q&AS, panels, parties and more. Venues include the Scottish Rite, AC Hotel Tucson Downtown, Main Gate Square and Children’s Museum Tucson. Downtown Tucson, filmfesttucson.org, various dates and times, $30-$249.97

Peoria Film Fest

OCTOBER 13 TO OCTOBER 16

The Phoenix Film Festival offshoot is back with a helping of great new indie films for the West Valley. Throughout the festival’s four days, audiences will be treated to an array of films both short and feature length, from narrative works to documentaries. See related story. Harkins Arrowhead Fountains, 16046 N. Arrowhead Fountains Center Drive, Peoria, peoriafilmfest.com, $10-$40

“Halloween Ends”

OPENS OCTOBER 14

“Evil dies tonight!” So screamed a character played by Anthony Michael Hall in last year’s “Halloween Kills.” But Michael Myers is back. The final installment in filmmaker David Gordon Green’s new trilogy that directly continues the story of John Carpenter’s original 1978 “Halloween,” it takes place four years after the killer horror icon’s last sighting and once again features Jamie Lee Curtis, Andi Matichak, James Jude Courtney, Will Patton and Kyle Richards, with newcomer Rohan Campbell also among the cast. Rated R. In theaters and streaming on Peacock, universalpictures. com/movies/halloween-ends

“TÁR”

OPENS OCTOBER 14

Acclaimed filmmaker Todd Field’s 2001 film “In the Bedroom” and 2006 follow-up, “Little Children,” garnered widespread accolades, including a combined eight Academy Award nominations. Now, after a 16-year hiatus, Fields’ “TÁR” appears to be no different. The drama stars Cate Blanchett — who won the Volpi Cup for Best Actress at the Venice International Film Festival — as fictional iconic musician Lydia Tár and “examines the changing nature of power, its impact and durability in our modern world,” according to the logline. Notably, the film was also nominated for the Golden Lion, the festival’s highest achievement, as well as the Queer Lion. In theaters, focusfeatures.com/tar

Phoenix Pride Festival

OCTOBER 15 AND OCTOBER 16

Phoenix Pride hit its 40th anniversary last year, and now it’s back for another two days of celebrating the LGBTQ+ community.

This includes seven stages of entertainment plus hundreds of exhibitors encompassing food, shopping and resources. Oh, and don’t forget the parade! There’s much to do at Phoenix Pride Festival. This event raises funds for the Phoenix Pride Community Programs. See related story.

Steele Indian School Park, 300 E. Indian School Road, 602.27.PRIDE (602.277.7433), phoenixpride. org/events/pride-festival, noon to 9 p.m. each day, $30-$150 or free for children younger than 12 and active military

Scottsdale Taste of Italy & Music Festival

OCTOBER 15 AND OCTOBER 16

Billed as a food and musical experience with two stages of entertainment, this event offers a little taste of Italy. Presented by the Italian Association of Arizona and the city on the Scottsdale Waterfront in Old Town, musical performances span an array of artists from the USA and Italy, with more than a dozen listed local food

PHX » CITY » LOCAL » PRIDE

Marc

Lalah

purveyors serving everything from pizza to gelato. See related story. Scottsdale Waterfront, italianassociation.org, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, $10-$20 or free for kids 12 and younger

Red Rocks Oktoberfest

OCTOBER 15

The Upper Ball Field of Posse Grounds Park plays home to this Northern Arizona take on a Bavarian tradition. Well Dressed Wolves and Polka Katzen will provide the entertainment, with Historic Brewing, the Grand Canyon Brewing + Distillery, Dust Bowl Brewing Co., THAT Brewery and Wanderlust Brewing Co. providing the drinks and local food trucks satisfying appetites with barbecue, Creole and Cajun cuisine, African appetizers, TexMex food and frozen bananas. The event benefits the Rotary Club of Sedona Red Rocks. Posse Grounds Park, 525 Posse Ground Road, Sedona, redrocksoktoberfest.com, 3 to 8 p.m., $25-$30

Arizona Jazz Festival

OCTOBER 21 TO OCTOBER 23

With three days and more than 20 acts, plus a variety of food and beverage options including beer and wine, this North Phoenix festival is going to make for a jam-packed weekend. Boney James leads Friday’s musicians, while Raheem DeVaughn headlines Saturday and Eric Benét headlines the final day.

High Street, 5415 E. High Street, Phoenix, 602.244.8444, azjazzfest.com, 3 p.m. Friday, 11 a.m. Saturday and Sunday, $75-$735

Artists Assemble Horror Fest

OCTOBER 21 TO OCTOBER 23

Billed as a “spooktacular event,” this horror-centric festival is coming equipped with an array of artists, vendors, celebrity sightings and photo ops for all who love the darker side of entertainment. There will be a “Stranger Things” Upside Downthemed walk-through attraction, costumed trick-or-treating, allages party and so much more.

Sheraton Crescent Hotel, 2620 W. Dunlap Avenue, Phoenix, artistsassembleproductions. com, 4 to 9 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, $10-$60 or free for kids 12 and younger

Arizona Asian Festival

OCTOBER 22

Carly Rae Jepsen

OCTOBER 17

With a devoted legion of fans in tow, the beloved pop star returns to the stage, with a new album to boot. After this Phoenix stop with support from Empress Of, Carly Rae Jepsen’s latest album, “The Loneliest Time,” drops October 21. Singles include the laidback “Western Wind,” playful “Beach House” and ’80s throwback “Talking to Yourself,” so the album is shaping up to a varied collection.

Arizona Financial Theatre, 400 W. Washington Street, Phoenix, 602.379.2888, livenation. com, 7:30 p.m., $46-$162.50

Nineteen diverse Asian groups come together at this annual festival from the Arizona Asian American Association, which showcases culture by day and becomes a marketplace by night. Try a variety of Asian foods, enjoy music and entertainment ranging from traditional taiko drummers to K-pop, sip from the beer and tea gardens, and enjoy costume shows. There’s also a Children’s Wonderland and Avenue of Cultures. Scottsdale Waterfront/Canal Bank, arizonaasianfestival.org, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., free admission

Autumnfest

OCTOBER 22 TO OCTOBER 23

Anthem is a draw with this arts and crafts fair that boasts vendors selling all sorts of goods that range from fine arts, crafts and handmade items to the culinary.

Live music from The Very Secret Service and Andrea & Gemini Band, a pumpkin patch, hayrides, roaming entertainment such as a magician and balloon artist, a food court and Rotary beer garden, and a decorated pumpkin contest add to the fun. The festival is just two days, but a carnival will also be available for

four days beginning October 20 (see website for hours and cost).

Anthem Community Park, 41703 N. Gavilan Peak Parkway, 623.742.6009, onlineatanthem.com/events/ autumnfest.php, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day, free admission

Bisbee Festival of the Arts

OCTOBER 22 TO OCTOBER 23

This Southern Arizona fall festival features art vendors, eclectic live entertainment, food and drink options, and plenty of artists exhibiting their works. An invitational gallery exhibition, artisan vendor area, Central School Project exhibition and other surrounding galleries make Bisbee an artists’ haven. A dozen local musicians and the Aerie Circus Arts Troupe, plus the 12th annual BRATS (Bisbee Rolling Art Transport Society) Parade, offer more to see throughout the weekend. Lowell District, Bisbee, bisbeefestivalofthearts. com, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day, free admission

Hispanic Family Fiesta

OCTOBER 22

This inaugural fiesta is a celebration of Hispanic culture. Featuring art, food, music and other entertainment, it’s also an all-ages affair. Eats include authentic Mexican dishes, while Freddy Vega Jr. and Marca Registrada will fill the air with tunes. Proceeds benefit the Arizona Diamondbacks Foundation and youth sports programs. Chase Field, 401 E. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, 602.514.8400, dbacks.com/ events, 11 a.m., $6-$18

Alex G

OCTOBER 24

Eclectic indie singer-songwriter Alexander Giannascoli is as known for his emotive tunes as he is seamlessly moving between genres. Now, after dropping the "(Sandy)" from his name, the musician known simply as Alex G is returning to the Valley in support of his latest album, “God Save the Animals.” Indie pop singer Hatchie, whose music recalls an array of influences from shoegaze to baggy, opens. The Van Buren, 401 W. Van Buren Street, Phoenix, thevanburenphx.com, 8 p.m., $25

Mercyful Fate

OCTOBER 27

The legendary Danish metal outfit is back — and reportedly working on new music. But first, a tour! With singer King Diamond, known for his unmistakable voice, at the helm — and still hitting those highs — this is

a show metalheads shan’t want to miss. Kreator and Midnight open. Arizona Financial Theatre, 400 W. Washington Street, Phoenix, 602.379.2888, livenation. com, 7 p.m., $59.50-$903.50

“The Banshees of Inisherin” OPENS OCTOBER 28

After winning the Academy Award for Best Picture for 2017’s “Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri,” British-Irish filmmaker Martin McDonagh is back with this acclaimed film that reunites actors Colin Farrell and Brendan Gleeson, who starred together in McDonagh’s 2008 cult classic “In Bruges.” The Irish duo star as “two lifelong friends who find themselves at an impasse when one abruptly ends their relationship, with alarming consequences for both of them,” according to distributor Searchlight Pictures. McDonagh won the Golden Osella for Best Screenplay at the Venice International Film Festival, with Farrell taking home the Volpi Cup for Best Actor. Like the aforementioned “TÁR,” it was nominated for the Golden Lion. Rated R. In theaters, searchlightpictures. com/the-banshees-of-inisherin

Noche en Blanco

OCTOBER 29

Take to Hance Park’s East Lawn for this seventh annual inclusive community dinner, described as “a night of elegant and culturally diverse community fun.” The fun starts with arrival in white costume cocktail attire and continues through the night with live music, dance and food. Entertainment includes Phoenix Afrobeat Orchestra and more. Proceeds benefit the Hance Park Conservancy in the name of the sustainability and future of the park. This event is for ages 21 and older, Hance Park, 116 E. Moreland Street, Phoenix, hanceparkphx. org/noche-en-blanco-2022, 5 to 10 p.m., $30-$200

Scottsdale Zombie Crawl

OCTOBER 29

Halloween is on a Monday this year, but thankfully, this spooky celebration returns the weekend before. Wear your best costume with all the other ghosts, ghouls and undead to this annual Halloween pub crawl, which will include all-day/allnight drink specials from more than 10 bars and nightclubs. There will be drink discounts, and select venues will even include free welcome shots. Don’t miss out on the afterparty. Social Tap, 5412 N. Brown Avenue, Scottsdale, scottsdalezombiecrawl. com, 7 p.m., $15-$35

Photo: Craig Cutler

SUPPORT, ENGAGE, EMPOWER

Phoenix Pride brightens its community

By Summer Aguirre

PhoenixPride is a safe place in the Valley for everyone to be their true selves.

Celebrating its 42nd anniversary this year, the well-known nonprofit organization promotes unity and self-esteem among LGBTQ+ community members through resource-based work in Phoenix. Spearheading community programs and two of Arizona’s largest Pride festivals, Phoenix Pride goes to great lengths to honor diversity and battle for equality.

“Everybody’s human and everybody has the right to be who they are, and to be able to work for an organization that allows that to happen and fights for that to happen, it’s not like coming to work,” Phoenix Pride Executive Director Mike Fornelli says. “It’s something that I enjoy doing, and I don’t look at it as a job. I look at it as a way to make our community better.”

Phoenix Pride was launched in 1981 as a march at the state Capitol for gay rights. Today, the philanthropic organization is run by a four-person team operating marches, rallies, parades, entertainment, education and outreach events 365 days a year.

Its staff partners closely with nearly 10 LGBTQ+ organizations when issues and events occur in the community, including one•n•ten, Equality Arizona, ONE Community and Gay Lesbian Straight Education Network (GLSEN).

The organization’s focus, however, is its programming for scholarships and community grants. It recently underwent a rebranding process to spread awareness about its concentration on providing community resources.

“When Phoenix Pride started, its

tagline was ‘Party in the Park,’ and everybody, when they heard Phoenix Pride, just associated it with the festival,” Fornelli says. “But now, being able to get the word out about all of the programming and the community grants and scholarships and all of that is a big milestone for us.”

The organization’s scholarship program provides scholarships for high school seniors, college students and adult re-entry students who identify as LGBTQ+ or allies. It offers $5,000 scholarships and $1,000 athletic and veteran scholarships.

This past year, the program produced $53,000 in scholarships for a total of over $400,000 since its inception in 2009.

Its community grants program is geared toward supporting other Arizona nonprofit organizations implement new programming.

Organizations in need of financial

assistance undergo an application process with Phoenix Pride, which makes funding decisions based on involvement in health and education; community development; social justice and inclusion; and LGBTQ arts, culture and history. A certain sum of funding is then awarded to the applicants.

Within the past year, the program has generated around $145,000 in grants, contributing to approximately $650,000 overall in the last 14 years.

According to Fornelli, the scholarship and community grants programs have totaled just over $1.2 million since 2008 — a highlight achievement that the organization hit in time for its 40th anniversary in 2020.

Although Phoenix Pride emphasizes its community programs, it doesn’t slack on its festivals.

The organization’s annual Phoenix Pride Festival, which is celebrating its 41st anniversary this year, is fast approaching the weekend of Saturday, October 15, and Sunday, October 16, at Steele Indian School Park.

“We get a lot of folks, kids, adults from 2 years old to 100 years old, but a lot of them are not able to be their authentic selves in their everyday lives,” Fornelli says. “Just being able to provide that safe space where they can come out and see other people like them and be who they are, not worry about being judged or anything like that, is pretty special.”

Over two days of camaraderie between the LQBTQ+ community and its supporters, there will be seven different stages packed with performances, an

exhibitor marketplace, food trucks, and opportunities for marketing and business exposure. Proceeds will go toward funding the organization’s programs and public education about the LGBTQ+’s presence and rights battles in the community and beyond.

Fornelli hopes to see between 55,000 and 60,000 festival attendees come out to support the cause.

On Sunday, the festival’s parade will begin at 10 a.m., with approximately 230 entries leading the celebration down Third Street, from Thomas Road to Steele Indian School Park. The parade usually attracts around 15,000 spectators.

For those who need assistance or want to become involved in the organization, Fornelli urges them to reach out to Phoenix Pride.

“We are here for anybody that needs us 24 hours a day. People can call; people can come in. We’re happy to connect anybody with any resources that they may need — anything from medical to substance abuse, to domestic violence to housing, education. We’re just here to help.”

Phoenix Pride

WHEN: Various times Saturday, October 15, and Sunday, October 16

WHERE: Steele Indian School Park, Third Street and Thomas Road, Phoenix

COST: Tickets start at $30

INFO: phoenixpride.org

FREE YOUR MIND

En Vogue, Vincint lead the musical lineup

By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

ThePhoenix Pride Festival boasts a musical lineup ranging from indie pop singer-songwriter Vincint to R&B songstresses En Vogue on Saturday, October 15, and Sunday, October 16.

“Oh, my God, I can’t even tell you how excited we are,” Terry Ellis of En Vogue says about the festival at Steele Indian School Park in Phoenix. “We love Prides. They’re so much fun. We have a ball every time. They’re so freeing, and there’s no drama. Everybody’s feeling good. Everybody’s feeling happy. That’s how we love our shows to be. If we could just do Prides, we would love it.”

The musical lineup also features Kristen Merlin at 6 p.m. Saturday, October 15, followed by Vincint at 7 p.m. and Gayle at 8 p.m. On Sunday, hitting the stage are Willie Gomez at 7 p.m. and headliners En Vogue at 8 p.m.

“I can’t wait,” Vincint says.

“I have never been to Arizona before. It looks like it’s going to be so much fun. My set will feature a lot of dancing, a lot of singing and a lot of crowd participation. I enjoy it. Everybody feels included. It’s my people. It’s my community.”

Vincint released music in time for Pride, following up his 2021 debut album, “There Will Be Tears.” The song “Taste So Good” is part of a Pride campaign by Cann, a queer-founded cannabis-infused beverage company.

The song and video feature Vincint, Hayley Kiyoko, Gus Kenworthy, Sarah Michelle Gellar and Patricia Arquette, along with drag performers from season 14 of “RuPaul’s Drag Race”: Kornbread, Kerri Colby, Jorgeous and crowned winner Willow Pill.

“We didn’t think it would turn into this massive campaign,” Vincint says. “It’s been played on BBC One regularly and on the radio here. It’s a really good song. It has me and Hayley, MNEK and Kesha. It’s a recipe for greatness. I’m not mincing words on this one.”

Vincint says the product helps ease his anxiety and panic attacks.

“I didn’t have a cure or a way to deal with those,” he says. “I had been s straight edge until one of my friends said I should try an edible. I thought it would get me high and make me unproductive.

“I tried it and I drank one of the cans. It was one of the best afternoons I’ve had in a

long time — especially when I was in the house alone during the pandemic and all you can do is think. It was so nice to not have my brain clouded with so much. I could just relax.”

As for En Vogue, the women have plenty of hits ranging from “My Lovin’” to “Give Him Something He Can Feel” to the song “Rocket.”

“Our show is pretty high energy,” says Ellis, whose group just ended a 57-city tour with New Kids on the Block, SaltN-Pepa and Rick Astley.

“We’re going to be doing some of our new stuff from our latest album, which we did in 2018, called ‘Electric Café.’ We released the first single, ‘Rocket,’ written by Ne-Yo, and the second song was ‘Reach 4 Me,’ written and produced by Dem Jointz. We’re going to do one of our other songs, ‘I’m Good,’ written by Raphael Saadiq. It’s a lot of fun.”

Pride is the perfect place for En Vogue, adds Ellis, who with Cindy Herron and Rhona Bennett warm up for shows to El DeBarge’s music.

“En Vogue always stood for liberation,” she says. “Our music honors everyone, and we wanted to make sure our music was empowering. We’ve always felt like, with the position we’re in — especially having success — you’re in a position of power. You have to have something of substance to say.

“That’s why we have always opened the door to freedom. We’re telling all of you, especially as women and anyone who’s felt oppressed, that prejudice doesn’t represent anything. Any type of oppression is prejudice. We’ve always spoke about it and spoke against it — for us and everyone.”

HISTORY IN THE MAKING

‘Bros’ reinvents the rom-com with an LGBTQ+ focus

By Summer Aguirre

Rom-coms have forever been a movie night staple, and “Bros” is here to shake up the traditional swoony, heartfelt genre with a queer twist.

Universal Pictures’ newest film, released on September 30, has made history as the first gay romantic comedy to premiere from a Hollywood studio. Co-written and executive produced by comedic genius and actor Billy Eichner, who stars as one of the two leads alongside “Killjoys” star Luke Macfarlane, “Bros” introduces an allLGBTQ+ cast that delivers a humorous, genuine portrayal of gay culture.

“Bros” follows Eichner and Macfarlane as Bobby and Aaron, two men with commitment issues who dare to let themselves love each other. The film encompasses the typical rom-com plot characteristics: the meet, dates, misunderstandings, introductions to the family — all from a queer standpoint that Eichner says is long overdue in the industry.

“It’s really exciting. It’s been a long time coming,” Eichner says during an interview in Phoenix. “Ultimately, we just wanted to make it as hilarious as possible. We wanted to make a movie that really makes people laugh out loud, that makes them feel good, that’s sexy and a little shocking. That was our goal.”

With the release of so many dark, gritty action and superhero movies, Eichner says that comedies are almost exclusive to watching from the couch at home, whether they depict straight people or the LGBTQ+ community.

As a result, he wanted to give moviegoers a film that brings them together with friends to enjoy in theaters.

“There’s something really fun and exciting about going to a movie theater and laughing with your friends or going with your girlfriend, your boyfriend, or even going by yourself and just having that type of really fun, joyful experience,” he says. “‘Bros’ is a movie that is uplifting and makes you feel good about life. It’s hopeful, and I think we

really need more of that right now.”

Although its overall purpose was to make audiences laugh, the team knew from the beginning that one of the key objectives of the film was to bring the LGBTQ+ community into the limelight.

Hollywood is often imbalanced as to whom it gives its opportunities to, on many occasions casting straight actors as gay characters. Eichner and the crew wanted to help balance this, so they gathered a principal cast entirely consisting of LGBTQ+ members — making “Bros” the first studio film to do so.

“People didn’t know Seth Rogen before ‘Knocked Up.’ They didn’t really know Melissa McCarthy before ‘Bridesmaids,’” Eichner says. “So, we wanted to do that, too, but with LGBTQ actors and really, really funny LGBTQ people who have not gotten the opportunity to be in a movie like this.

“To all be on set together was so delightful. We all got along. We all were really grateful that we were getting this

opportunity, because it’s so rare, and we truly did have a great time.”

Eichner, whose resume includes his show “Billy on the Street,” 2019’s “The Lion King,” and “Difficult People,” is the first openly gay man to co-write and star in his own film backed by a major studio.

While it’s not entirely autobiographical, “Bros” was influenced by much of Eichner’s own life.

He says his personal experiences in the era of dating apps, texting and social media and the ensuing negative behaviors were a major source of inspiration for some of the scenes.

“I think straight people can relate to that. LGBTQ folks can relate to that. Any single person can relate to that,” Eichner says.

There are also moments where he drew from his journey as a gay person trying to build a career in Hollywood, a powerful move that he believes adds to its honesty and ability to resonate with others.

Right away, Eichner knew that he wanted the film to maintain an authentic, modern depiction of gay culture. For those outside the LGBTQ+ community, he says “Bros” presents a window for them to encounter gays in a humorous and sincere manner that captures their “complex,” “multidimensional” selves.

“I want straight people to experience gay men not just as characters who are wacky and can make you laugh,” he says.

“We’re not just the gay best friend in this movie — we’re at the center of the story. LGBTQ characters are all over the story.”

The film spotlights and satirizes many aspects of LGBTQ+ culture, from Grindr hookups to intra-queer politics, but particularly homes in on the impact that stereotypical masculinity has on gay men’s vulnerability and confidence.

Macfarlane, who has played the romantic lead in a number of Hallmark movies, resonates with some of his character’s struggles.

“I think Aaron’s journey in this movie is about how his masculinity prevents him from love and his notions of masculinity,” he says. “Whether that’s having this perfect body, whether that’s acting tough — I think that is ruining a lot of men, and I relate to that.”

Eichner’s role as Bobby, while not as conventionally masculine, also grapples with attempts to be tough and invulnerable.

“I think it shows that for both of these characters, they are sort of using a certain type of armor that they put between themselves and the world,” he says.

“You can’t be in love with someone and really have a satisfying relationship unless you let that guard down. You have to reveal yourself, you have to be vulnerable, and so in different ways, that’s what these characters are forcing each other to do — they have to, in order to be together.”

DREAMS AND WISHES

Artist Ray Villafane explores new characters

By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

Ray Villafane was preparing for a possible space trip when he had an epiphany.

Known for carving whimsical pumpkins, Villafane realized he had to tell stories in a cohesive manner. That led to his new home, Vulture City Ghost Town in Wickenburg, which he feels was meant to be — a dream he manifested.

He’ll show off his latest creations at Gourdy Ghouligan’s first Halloween Spooktacular 2022 on Friday, October 21; Saturday, October 22; and Sunday, October 23, at Vulture City Ghost Town, 36610 355th Avenue, Wickenburg.

Gourdy Ghouligan’s Halloween Spooktacular features live pumpkin carving, dozens of pumpkin displays, family carve-along class, giant pumpkin, blacksmith demonstrations, boneyard mining company opening, trick or treat ghost town style, puppeteers, face painting, food and a beer garden

Villafane has sculpted for Marvel, DC Comics, Blizzard and Warner Bros. He holds two Guinness World Records and

has been recognized by “Ripley’s Believe It or Not.”

TO THE MOON

In March 2021, he applied for the dearMoon project, a lunar tourism mission and art project conceived and financed by Japanese billionaire Yusaku Maezawa. It will make use of a SpaceX Starship spacecraft on a private spaceflight flying a single circumlunar trajectory around the Moon.

“He held a worldwide contest,” he says. “Of those 20 people, he was bringing eight creatives to circle the moon, get

inspired and create something and share it with the world.”

Villafane spent a year “getting into the headspace” that he was going to leave his wife and children and head out on this “dangerous mission.” He meditated by running through the desert at the hottest point of the day.

During this time, he came up with the story of “Mining Magic.”

“The premise is for thousands of years, people have made wishes to a full moon,” he says. “While many come true, a good part of those people, when they birthed those wishes, didn’t believe their own wish would come true.”

Those wishes were stuck on the moon.

“When my characters the scarecrow people and the mice got to the moon, they discovered an abandoned mine from the original Apollo. They abandoned it because there were ghosts and spirits protecting those wishes. The ghosts and spirits were the people’s own fears and doubt. The demons were too difficult to break through. In my story, they break through that.”

When Villafane didn’t make it to the space travel program — after running 120 miles in July — he wasn’t concerned.

“I didn’t care if I went to the moon,” he adds. “I had already won with the story that I came up with. In creating the characters, I discovered a lifetime of things to play with.

“‘Mining Magic’ brought purpose to my life. It is a story everyone could benefit from. We prevent ourselves from achieving everything we want. It’s our own ghosts and demons who block ourselves. There’s an underlying story that I thought was really important to share. I love the way I concocted a

whimsical way to tell it.”

As such, Villafane manifested a dream for himself. Just a few weeks later, “the universe delivered to me Vulture City Mine, Arizona’s most historic gold mine” outside of Wickenburg. Previously, during the COVID-19 pandemic, Villafane displayed his creations in storefronts in Wickenburg.

“I went out to Vulture City Mine, and I fell in love,” he says. “It was my moon. It completed my story that I wanted to do. Not only was it such an amazing fit for everything I wanted to do, the owner is letting me have creative freedom. He gave me a workshop to work out of. The workshop was built in 1890, and my name (Ray) was carved into the wall when I walked into it.

“The whole place feels like home.”

He opened the Boneyard Mining Company, where he mines magic ore from the unwanted, discarded, overlooked or ignored ingredients within and around us.

“Gourdy Ghouligan has mined more magic into this world. His blind optimism has helped him to extract the most magical outcomes from the darkest of situations. Gourdy has a gang of hooligans who work as a team. Come check it out.”

Gourdy Ghouligan’s Halloween Spooktacular

WHEN: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday, October 21; Saturday, October 22; and Sunday, October 23

WHERE: Vulture City Ghost Town, 36610 355th Avenue, Wickenburg

COST: Visit website for information

INFO: villafanestudios.com

SO MUCH FUN, IT’S SCARY!

Haunted houses return for Halloween

By Cameron Chester

Allen Thompson, owner and operator of Scarizona Scaregrounds, promises this haunted venue’s season will be chaotic activity and all-over madness.

The grounds have two haunting experiences: Scarizona, which begins October 1, and Frights in the Lights, both of which are recommended for those 12 and older.

“We have two haunted attractions this year,” Thompson says. “Each year, we strive to mix things up by adding new effects and keeping up with the latest technology. This haunted house is all about chaos, disorder, bedlam and havoc.”

Frights in the Lights is a mile-long drive-thru experience with large, spooky spiders and pumpkins. This is a separate ticketed event meant for families with young children.

“Neither of these events would be possible without our talented employees who make them possible,” Thompson says.

“From our actors to our parking lot attendants to our creative team and everyone in between, it truly is a team effort to make magic every night for an entire month.

“One of our strategic goals for Scarizona is to get better every year, so each season we do our best to bring event attendees the high-quality haunted show they’re looking for. To do this, our creative team works year-round on organizing and making sure this annual event happens. We are also always looking to grow and innovate, that’s how we came up with the separate Halloween drive-thru event for families and those who don’t want to be scared but still want to celebrate the fun, lighter-hearted side of the Halloween season.”

SCARIZONA AND FRIGHTS IN THE LIGHTS

WHEN: Various times Friday, October 7, to Monday, October 31

WHERE: Scarizona, Thompson Event

Center, 1901 N. Alma School Road, Mesa

COST: Tickets start at $24.95 for Scarizona and $24.95 per car for Frights in the Lights

INFO: scarizona.com or frightsinthelights.com

This Halloween season, there are other haunted houses for families to experience around the Valley. Here are some of the frightening few.

42ND HAUNT

This castle experience is a private haunt, operated by a family giving back to the community. Suggested $5 donations will ensure this event continues to thrive. The graveyard display grows each week until Halloween.

WHEN: 6 to 10 p.m. Friday, October 21, to Monday, October 31

WHERE: 4226 W. Park View Lane, Glendale COST: Free; $5 suggested donation

INFO: 42ndhaunt.com

THE 13TH FLOOR HAUNTED HOUSE:

Thirteenth Floor Entertainment Group is the world’s largest Halloweenthemed entertainment company, with over 15 locations. It brings a premier haunted house experience to markets across the country, including Phoenix.

WHEN: 7 to 11 p.m. through Monday, October 31

WHERE: 2814 W. Bell Road, Phoenix COST: $29.99

INFO: 13thflooraz.com

AZ FIELD OF SCREAMS

Prepare to be frightened, dare to enter. Watch out for the living dead. This field of screams haunts guests as they travel through a quiet, dark cornfield, anticipating every second danger lurking around the next corner.

WHEN: 7 to 11 p.m. through Monday, October 31

WHERE: 5726 N. 75th Avenue, Glendale COST: $25

INFO: azfieldofscreams.com

FEAR FARM HAUNTED HOUSE

Fear Farm is the largest outdoor haunted attraction in the Valley, with 30 acres of six indoor/outdoor. Haunted attractions, plus the Phoenix Haunted Hayride.

WHEN: 7 to 11 p.m. through Monday, October 31

WHERE: 5726 N. 75th Avenue, Glendale COST: $27.99

INFO: fearfarm.com

GOLFLAND FRIGHT NIGHTS

Golfland-Sunsplash will undergo a terrifying transformation this October as it devolves into Golfland Fright Nights. Explore two Halloween attractions at one location. Visit its award-winning haunted house, The Gauntlet, or try a round of Spooktacular Golf!

WHEN: 7 to 11 p.m. through Monday, October 31

WHERE: 155 W. Hampton Avenue, Mesa COST: $36.99

INFO: golfland.com

HAUNTED GRAVEYARD ARIZONA

The Haunted Graveyard is a 13-minute haunted house with live actors, fog, loud noises and illusions. The intense walk-thru isn’t recommended for children younger than 13.

WHEN: 6:30 to 10 p.m. Thursday, October 27, to Monday, October 31

WHERE: 8414 E. Valley Vista Drive, Scottsdale COST: Free; $5 suggested donation INFO: hauntedgraveyardaz.com

MOUNT MAYHEM BAYOU, A BLOOD TALE

Mix a little Southern gothic, a creepy swamp and Victorian old-world New Orleans lore and you have 2022 Mount Mayhem recipe for fright. Phobias may have prickled your innermost anxieties last year, but this season the Mount Mayhem Bayou, a blood tale, comes alive.

WHEN: 7 to 9:30 p.m. Thursday, October 27, to Monday, October 31

WHERE: 1740 E. Purdue Avenue, Phoenix COST: Free; donations accepted

INFO: mountmayhemhaunt.com

CELEBRATING FILM

Peoria festival returns for the fall

By Summer Aguirre

Forthe fourth year, the Peoria Film Festival is returning in October to celebrate the art of film.

A sibling to the largerscale Phoenix Film Festival, the Peoria festival spotlights the work of new and established fi lmmakers while giving local movie lovers the chance to see fi lms in a high-quality, personal environment. It will run from October 13 to October 16, with all screenings held at the Harkins Arrowhead Fountains 18 theater in the P83 entertainment district.

“I hope they (attendees) take away that they had a unique experience and they got to see fi lms they may not otherwise have seen or may not be able to find again,” Peoria Film Festival director Jason Kearney says.

“Sometimes, we’ll have some fi lmmakers who come to the screenings and they’ll talk about the fi lms after, and so it’s just a unique experience. It’s what separates going to the movies and going to a fi lm festival — there should always be a difference in the type of fi lm you see and the type of experience you have.”

Th is year’s lineup includes 40 independent feature fi lms, documentaries, shorts and artistic works encompassing a wide variety of genres. Like many independent fi lms, most are rated PG-13 and up.

Opening night will commence with Juno Films’ “The Same Storm,” which was fi lmed at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic with iPhones and laptops. Twenty-four characters provide an in-depth look into life during lockdowns, the Black Lives Matter movement and the impending 2020 elections, highlighting the necessity of friends and family amidst trying times.

The closing fi lm is “The Return of Tanya Tucker” by Sony Classics, a depiction of the country music legend’s epic return to the spotlight after Americana star Brandi Carlile creates an album based on Tucker’s life.

Kearney noted several other highlight titles screening across the four days, one of which was created by a 16-year-old from Tempe. Titled “Under Pressure: The Animated Musical,” the fi lm portrays old best friends whose Paris reunion takes a dangerous turn.

The festival director also touched upon “Life in Synchro,” a documentary

following women competing in synchronized ice skating.

“We’re partnering with a women’s leadership conference going on in Peoria that same day to present that fi lm,” Kearney says. “It’s about women empowerment, and the women in this documentary just really make a lot of sacrifices for their sport and are doing really great things, making strides. With the sport dominated by women, it’s just a natural tie-in.”

Last year, Kearney and his team quickly organized the Peoria festival to piggyback the Phoenix festival as a way to re-engage with the community after the pandemic.

“Having to cancel 2020 completely was really heartbreaking after having such great momentum in 2019,” he says. “So now we’re kind of getting back to the start a little bit, but it’s totally worth it and we’re excited to do it.”

Over the course of two decades, the Phoenix Film Festival nonprofit organization and its foundation have been bringing the community fi lms from across the globe annually.

The Peoria festival was born to expand the organization’s footprint in the Valley, supported by the city of Peoria, Harkins Theaters and Huntington University.

“It makes sense for us to reach out to an area where there aren’t a lot of fi lm art events going on, and to give Peoria a good festival was important to us,” Kearney says.

Thanks to its connections through the Phoenix festival, the Peoria Film Festival is able to display higher-profi le, novel fi lms while retaining an intimate feel. Th is sets it apart from the Phoenix festival and other small fi lm events, many of which are unable to sustain the same level program.

With the West Valley flourishing economically, Kearney says he is proud of the film organization’s ability to enrich the Peoria community’s culture and looks forward to seeing the event develop.

“I think we’ll continue to grow both the caliber of fi lm and the number of fi lms we show over time,” he says. “It won’t be the Phoenix Film Festival. It’s simply not built that way, but I think it’s important to develop its own personality and try to do things more community focused.”

He acknowledged that arts and entertainment accentuate the quality of life, expressing the need for those opportunities to remain accessible for all members of the community.

“It’s not just about providing police, fire, roads and schools. It’s about getting people in environments that they want to live in, they want to grow in and enjoy being a part of,” he says. “It’s nice

when you live in a place where things are convenient, you don’t have to drive downtown to go see a play or go see a good movie.”

The Peoria Film Festival’s opening night begins at 6 p.m. at Abuelo’s Mexican Restaurant before the screenings start at 7 p.m. at the Harkins theater. Peoria residents receive a discount on tickets.

Proceeds will benefit the Phoenix Film Foundation’s educational programs, which are devoted to cultivating future Arizona fi lmmakers by concentrating

Peoria Film Festival

WHEN: Times vary Thursday October 13, to Sunday, October 16

WHERE: Harkins Arrowhead Fountains 18, 16046 N. Arrowhead Fountains Center Drive, Peoria COST: Ticket prices vary INFO: 480.513.3195, peoriafilmfest.com

THAT’S ITALIAN!

New festival brings food and music to Scottsdale

By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

LastNovember, the Italian Association of Arizona longed to attract Italophiles to its Pizza & Wine Festival as COVID-19 was slowing.

“We didn’t know what to expect,” says Frank Guzzo, the association’s executive director.

“We wanted to test the waters with the Pizza & Wine Festival. It was one day, as we were still dealing with omicron. In hindsight, it could have been two.”

It was so successful, the partner to the Italian Festival of Arizona will reappear this October as the Scottsdale Taste of Italy & Music Festival on the Scottsdale Canal.

The two-day celebration features live music, hand-crafted Italian items, wine tastings, authentic Italian cuisine, pizza ovens and Italian food trucks.

Entertainers include Italian-born classical crossover tenor Michéal Castaldo and accordion player Cory Pesaturo. Attendees can enjoy traditional dances, opera singers, live performances on two stages all day, and a spaghettieating contest for kids. Those with a sweet tooth can indulge in a variety of authentic gelato, cannoli and biscotti.

“In 2022, we planned our Italian festival to happen in Phoenix,” says Guzzo, who lives in Gilbert.

“We did that at (Phoenix’s) Heritage Square, and it was a huge success. We didn’t want to let go of Scottsdale, though. We really enjoy hosting an event in Scottsdale.

“Originally, we planned the Scottsdale Taste of Italy & Music Festival for November, but there wasn’t space available. So, we chose October and it’s now a two-day event. We thought, ‘Let’s make it a little more encompassing and offer a variety of different food.’

The Scottsdale Taste of Italy & Music Festival was born.”

The city of Scottsdale gave the Taste of Italy festival $66,000 from the Tourism Development Fund established for events and event development.

“The city of Scottsdale is one of our major sponsors for the event,” Guzzo says. “They’ve really stepped up and helped us financially so we could stay here and make the event happen.

“We’re grateful to the city of Scottsdale. That’s why it’s called the Scottsdale Taste of Italy & Music Festival.”

For the event, guests will see entertainment on two stages, along with

pizza, pasta and nonfood vendors.

“We’re doing our best to make it fun,” Guzzo says. “The food is lovely. Everybody loves Italian food — the pizza, pasta, paninis, sandwiches, gelato, Italian ice, espresso. All those things are there.

“For other vendors, we have Italian women’s purses. I say that because I asked her for a men’s purse. In Italy, it’s part of the fashion. She usually sells out. We’ll have another gal who makes jewelry out of Italian coins. She’s going to be there with her products and jewelry.

“We have a variety of different things meant to get people engaged and introduce to someone or something they haven’t seen before. We want them to be entertained for a few hours and enjoy the event. It’ll be busy. It’ll be fun. The weather is supposed to be in the 70s.”

The festival marks the first time Castaldo has performed in Scottsdale.

“I’m looking forward to seeing many of my followers and fans who have been following me on Facebook in the Arizona/Phoenix areas,” Castaldo says.

“I perform Italian music, done in a classical style in the vein of Andrea Bocelli, Josh Groban, Il Volo. It’s classical crossover, and then I do songs with Italian flamenco guitar. I’ve been doing that style of music for quite a few years.”

His new single is a cover of Toto’s “Africa,” in honor of the song’s 40th anniversary. “I’m calling it Africa MMXXII, which means 2022,” Castaldo says. “It has that reggaetonflamenco vibe. It’s been covered by many other artists, but not in this style and genre. This will be the first time I play it live.”

He says festivals like that are an important way of spreading the truth about Italian culture.

“It is important because the Italian experience in the U.S. specifically has been told through the lens of Hollywood and television,” he explains.

“Generally, it’s not been in a positive light. By doing festivals and telling stories in between my songs, I try to balance the negative stereotype that Hollywood has told for many, many years.

“I talk about food, music, who inspired me, the great inventors and the great navigators and the great geniuses, the great painters, the renaissance. That’s something all Italians are very, very proud of.”

Scottsdale Taste of Italy & Music Festival

WHEN: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday, October 15, and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, October 16 WHERE: Scottsdale Canal, Scottsdale’s Southbridge Bridge to Solstice Park, 7135 E. Camelback Road, Scottsdale COST: $10 in advance; $20 day of $20. Children under 12 are free to attend. INFO: 480.745.7020, italianassociation.org

‘THE FALLING AND THE RISING’

Opera gives dramatic insight into wounded soldiers’ lives

By Bridgette Redman

When Tess Altiveros was debating whether to take on a new project at the Seattle Opera, the conductor, Michael Sakir, told her, “This opera will change your life.”

She took the job — performing as the central character in a new opera, “The Falling and the Rising,” roles which she and Sakir will reprise for the Arizona Opera from Friday, October 14, to Sunday, October 16, in Phoenix and Saturday, October 22, to Sunday, October 23, in Tucson.

“I will never forget him saying that, and it did change my life,” Altiveros said. “It changed my perspective. It changed my understanding and made me sit up and pay attention to the fact that I had my own prejudices that I needed to deal with. Mostly, it enabled a path for dialogue with a group of people that I have never been able to sit across the table with and certainly not make art with. It changed my view on myself as a citizen and my view on this world.”

“The Falling and the Rising” is a fiveperson opera based on the true stories of American military service members and veterans who have been wounded in the line of duty. Conceived of by Army Staff Sgt. Ben Hilget, who was an opera singer before he enlisted, it took shape when he, Zach Redler and Jerre Dye visited the Walter Reed Medical Center to interview wounded soldiers.

“The Falling and the Rising” breaks ground in its goals and its staging. Projections play an important role in the production. It is filled with humor — there are traditional opera singing deliveries of such lines as “You’d better get your ass in gear.”

Hilget says the opera aptly captures the sacrifices modern service members make. He says he and the other opera creators were immediately floored by the stories they heard when they started interviewing people at Walter Reed.

“I don’t think I’ve ever heard, to date, more powerful stories of resilience and strength,” Hilget says.

One of the first interviewees was a specialist who had been in a coma after being thrown from a Humvee. He

dreamt a life that he didn’t have, and even six months after he woke up, he was still trying to figure out what was real and what was not.

“He gained the power of speech back through music therapy — he actually learned to sing before he could speak,” Hilget says. “He spoke with a profound wisdom for someone of his age and still in the middle of trauma.”

They spoke to so many people in a three-day period that he said they could have written 10 operas.

Dennis Whitehead Darling had just finished serving as the inaugural McCleave Fellow in Directing at Opera Memphis, a fellowship designed to foster the careers of directors of color, when he went to see Opera Memphis’ production of the opera.

“It’s quite beautiful and poignant and painful and emotional and rich with beautiful themes of sacrifice and pain,” Darling says.

He is now directing the Arizona Opera production. As someone who contemplated going into the military and whose father, uncle, brother and stepsister all served, this opera touches on his ties. He says he feels people get a better understanding of what it takes to serve in the military and the sacrifice, duty and honor involved.

“There are no live scenes of people being shot at, but it does deal with injury and that sort of falling that the soldier goes through emotionally and

physically,” Darling says.

“Then it’s about this wonderful triumph of the rising of how they somehow find this miraculous strength to overcome any sort of emotional or physical pain. It honors their sacrifice.”

Altiveros says the music and score are designed to attract civilians and soldiers. She describes it as accessible and melodic.

“It’s meant to help us appreciate and acknowledge the sacrifices that are made, the good parts and the bad parts about enlisting and the hardships of it,” Altiveros says.

While not traditionally a subject of opera, the stories of sacrifice and injury translate well to the art form, Altiveros says.

“The stakes are so high — there is a risk of life and death and injury and things like that, but real human relationships are affected and in a very large way,” Altiveros says.

“Anytime you can tell that story of human relationships onstage, it lends itself to opera. Opera can heighten that sense of emotion.”

She recently spoke with art producers who were concerned about whether this opera would be too heavy and traumatic for audiences who are stressed in a postpandemic world. She was eager to allay those fears.

“It’s not that this does not address (traumatic) topics — the whole premise essentially is when a female soldier is

hit in a roadside bombing and they put her in a medically induced coma. The entirety of the rest of the opera is her wandering through her subconscious and coming across these different soldiers’ stories,” Altiveros says.

“That is the background for these stories to happen, but it’s meant to leave you feeling uplifted. It’s not a downer.”

Altiveros said she cries in almost every single rehearsal because she is so moved by the stories, and she is certain the audience will be moved, too.

“But it’s not meant to traumatize,” Altiveros said. “It’s meant to leave you feeling really hopeful about and grateful for the work that our soldiers are doing. It’s not meant to take you to a really, really dark place and then leave you there. I want to make sure people know that.”

WHEN/WHERE: Various times Friday, October 14, to Sunday, October 16, at the Herberger Theater, 222 E. Monroe Street, Phoenix, and Saturday, October 22, to Sunday, October 23, at the Temple of Music and Art, 330 S. Scott Avenue, Tucson

COST: See website for details

INFO: azopera.org

» GALLERY » DRAMA » VISION

The Arizona Opera’s “The Falling and the Rising” by Zach Redler, libretto by Jerre Dye

student life

4 11 Things Eat at these places during Pasta Month

6 That's the Ticket ASU, Lottery partner to ‘give back’

7 Givin' In Joey Gutos leans into his authentic self with new music

PUBLISHER

Steve T. Strickbine

VICE PRESIDENT Michael Hiatt

EDITOR Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Alex Gallagher

David Medina

Annika Tomlin

DESIGNER

Shannon Mead

CIRCULATION DIRECTOR

Aaron Kolodny

ASSOCIATE ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER

Nadine Whitehead

PRODUCTION MANAGER

Courtney Oldham

which

Distribution Services Provided By

One copy per reader. © 2022, 4M PUBLISHING, LLC

The College Times is published once a month. College Times is a nationally registered trademark. Reproduction of material in whole or in part without the express written consent of the publisher is prohibited.

The College Times is a member of Times Media Group. Calendar and editorial submissions can be made to editorial@ecollegetimes.com.

Be sure to check out ecollegetimes.com, like us on Facebook and follow us on Instagram and Twitter!

STUDENT LIFE

11 PLACES TO EAT AT DURING PASTA MONTH

ANNIKA TOMLIN

Carb lovers unite, October is National Pasta Month. Pasta comes in a variety of shapes, sizes and flavors. From linguine and ravioli to tortellini and bow tie, the pasta choices are endless. Here are 11 places around the Valley to dine at during the month.

11. HUMBLE BISTRO

This neighborhood wine bistro serves anything but humble options. Fresh pasta creations available include pasta rosa and meatballs, Cajun chicken alfredo and cremini sachetti, a fresh handmade stuffed pasta with roasted cremini mushrooms and cheese in brown butter, truffle and garlic confit sauce topped with imported ricotta, lemon zest, chili flakes and basil oil. humblebistro.com, $16-$24

10. OREGANO’S

Oregano’s prides itself on its huge portions and family atmosphere, making its restaurants one of the best places to celebrate National Pasta Month. Fan favorites include the Big Rig Pasta, a huge bowl of rigatoni pasta with a tasty tomato chipotle cream sauce, chopped basil, diced tomatoes, Parmesan and a spicy finish. The Lady is a Scampi has nearly a half-pound of big, tail-on shrimp mixed with spiral pasta, diced tomatoes, fresh cilantro, and imported Parmesan cheese swimming in a chipotle garlic sauce. oreganos.com

9. STREETS OF NEW YORK

Streets of New York has 15 Valley locations serving seven specialty

COLLEGE TIMES

pastas. Try out the Toscana pasta made with garlic chicken, artichoke hearts, spinach, onion, roasted garlic pecorino, pesto cream sauce and chopped Roma garnish on a choice of pasta. Or have Lorrie’s Lasagna; created and named after the CEO and founder, the lasagna is made with layers of delicious Italian components including ricotta cheese, Italian sausage and ground beef, mozzarella and pecorino cheese. streetsofnewyork.com, $15-$17

8. POMODORO ITALIAN GRILL & SEAFOOD

Pomodoro Italian Grill & Seafood is more than a fancy Italian restaurant with the owners’ passionate desire to share their deep-rooted Italian heritage and authentic Italian hospitality. Among the 13 homemade pasta creations are gnocchi sorrentina, ravioli short rib and mandilli di seta, chef’s signature thin pasta sheets, almond pesto, almonds and shrimp.

6710 E. Cave Creek Road, Cave Creek, pomodorousa.com, $26-$50

7. CRUST SIMPLY ITALIAN

With over 10 pasta dishes on the main menu, there is something for everyone. Looking for a classic dish? Go for Grandma’s Pasta, served with meatballs, sausage, ricotta and marinara. Add some spice to your life with the spicy rigatoni sausage served in a marinara and cream sauce with broccolini; the heat comes from the calabrese chilis and the spicy sausage.

10 N. San Marcos Plaza, Chandler; 8300 N. Hayden Road, Suite F100, Scottsdale, crustrestaurants.com, $11-$23

6. RED, WHITE, AND BREW

Created in 2002, Red, White, & Brew is named such because each

entrée can be enjoyed with its selection of red wine, white wine or beer. Within the pasta selections are Romano-crusted chicken over fettuccine pasta, pesto chicken over cheese tortellini, or bourbon-glazed pecan crusted fresh salmon plated with pumpkin mascarpone ravioli and spinach in a creole mustard sauce.

6740 E. McDowell Road, Suite 102, Mesa, rwbaz.com, $14-$35

5. TOMASO’S

This upscale Italian restaurant located in Phoenix features a wide variety of fresh, handcrafted pasta dishes. Guests can dine in the elegant atmosphere of Tomaso’s while trying dishes like the stuffed gnocchi made with silky handcrafted gnocchi, covered in a brown butter sage sauce and topped with basil and shredded Parmesan cheese. Other popular pasta dishes include the linguini with clams sauce, with little neck clams, roasted garlic, white wine and parsley, and spaghetti al amalfitana with jumbo shrimp, scallops, Calabrian chili, San Marzano tomatoes and house-made spaghetti in a saffron broth.

3225 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix, tomasos.com, $24-$42

4. CAMPO ITALIAN BISTRO & BAR

A modern Italian tavern offering “field-to-farm” cooking, Campo Italian Bistro & Bar offers fresh pasta with a bevy of craft beers, wines and cocktails. The pasta listings include spaghetti cacio e pepe, fettuccine primavera, rigatoni and braised short ribs, and mafaldini pescatore made with squid ink pasta, mussels, clams, shrimp and spicy tomato broth.

8260 N. Hayden Road, Suite A102, Scottsdale, campoitalian.com, $19-$34

3. PICAZZO’S HEALTHY ITALIAN

Picazzo’s is an Arizona-based, family-owned and -operated, healthcentric restaurant with locations in Scottsdale, Tempe, Gilbert, Paradise Valley and Arrowhead. It offers gluten-free pasta dishes including classic mac and cheese, linguine and meatballs and Beyond sausage mushroom and pesto made with brown rice penne, pesto sauce, fresh garlic, spinach, Beyond sausage, herbed mushrooms, fresh basil and diced tomatoes. Picazzo’s also offers a vegan pasta menu that includes vegan spicy chipotle chick’n and vegan picatta pasta. picazzos.com, $17.50-$21.50

2. BUCA DI BEPPO

For all of October, Buca di Beppo is celebrating National Pasta Month with three specials: roasted mushroom ravioli in a creamy alfredo sauce with garlic mushrooms; smokey bacon and sausage shells made with hearty spicy Italian sausage, roasted cherry tomatoes and Parmesan, and campanelle rustica created with hearty sausage, fingerling potato and fresh broccoli rabe in a creamy sauce.

bucadibeppo.com, $30-$42

1. BRIO ITALIAN GRILLE

Brio Italian Grille is celebrating Pasta Month with two savory pasta dishes plus a truffle garlic bread appetizer. Campanelle carbonara is made with creamy egg sauce, fennel and sausage topped with crispy pancetta, while frutti di mare is made with a homemade arrabiata sauce, spaghetti, roasted grape tomato, shrimp, scallops and mussels.

2150 E. Williams Field Road, Suite 118, Gilbert, brioitalian.com, $24.99-$29.99

Buca di Beppo

Campo Italian Bistro & Bar

THAT’S THE TICKET

ASU, LOTTERY PARTNER TO ‘GIVE BACK’

DAVID MEDINA • COLLEGE TIMES

Arizona

State University’s J. Orin Edson Entrepreneurship + Innovation Institute and The Global Sports Institute will be partnering with the Arizona Lottery and its Gives Back program.

The partnership will help support ASU’s Global Sport Venture Challenge.

The J. Orin Edson Entrepreneurship + Innovation Institute at ASU was created to help new entrepreneurs push their ideas, not only in the Valley but all over the globe.

According to a statement, The J. Orin Edson Entrepreneurship + Innovation Institute serves as a premiere connecting and collaborating conduit across ASU and throughout the world. The Edson Entrepreneurship + Innovation Institute helps propel entrepreneurial aspirations by way of opportunities to explore, share, test and advance ideas.

As a central source of information, resources and people, engaging with

the Edson E+I Institute is to develop an entrepreneurial mindset, engage with global and local events and communities, and launch an idea through mentoring, funding, spaces and commercialization.

The Global Sports Institute at ASU focuses on problems that are plaguing the world of sports.

According to a statement from The Global Sports Institute, it is where diverse disciplines converge to thoughtfully examine critical issues impacting sport.

It continues, as a crossdisciplinary enterprise, the institute’s efforts are integrated throughout the entire university — from engineering to sociology, the athletic department and beyond — rather than within a single concentration. With an emphasis on expanding research, sharing knowledge, supporting innovation and advancing education, the institute’s mission is to use sport to create positive change throughout the world.

Arizona Lottery’s Gives Back

uses proceeds from Arizona lottery tickets and puts them toward higher education, health and human services, environmental conservation, and economic and business development. According to a study, the program gave over $287.8 million to Arizona communities in the 2021 fiscal year. With these partnerships, ASU use these funds to encourage, educate

“It’s through these partnerships that we’re able to grow the reach of the Global Sport Venture Challenge as part of ASU Venture Devils Demo Day connecting vital resources to our ventures.”

Jeff Kunowski, Global Sport Institute associate director of innovation programs, says he believes this is a special opportunity

development align perfectly with the mission and values put forth through the AZ Lottery’s Gives Back program. We look forward

coming out of this year’s program,”

affiliated with ASU to be eligible Challenge. Each applicant must submit a 5-minute video pitch, a one-page executive summary, and have a logo and website for his/her proposed pitch/startup. For more

Gregg Edgar, executive director of the Arizona Lottery, says he believes that this partnership will benefit the

“We recognize the benefits that Arizona, and we want to foster the development of our next generation of entrepreneurs,” Edgar says, “As a significant driver of our state’s

director, venture development, J.

looking for ways to help create jobs and generate revenue in Arizona for years to come.”

Orin Edson Entrepreneurship + Innovation Institute at ASU.

GIVIN’ IN

JOEY GUTOS LEANS INTO HIS AUTHENTIC SELF WITH NEW MUSIC

ALEX GALLAGHER COLLEGE TIMES

Even before he graduated from ASU in 2015 with a bachelor’s degree in entrepreneurship, Joey Gutos was passionate about music.

He says he earned his degree to better understand the music business, but now he feels better prepared for the corporate world than the music industry.

“It was a little strange because at W.P. Carey, they sort of prep you to go into the corporate world and into making a lot of money in a sugary, lucrative industry,” Gutos says. “Music isn’t exactly on their top priority as far as how they structure things. So, I kind of had to figure out a way for everything that I was taught to apply this to music.”

So, Gutos was tenacious about finding success.

“Having a lot of tenacity, energy and consistency is way more valuable than being business savvy, because I feel like you can get savvy at business as you’re doing more in general,” he says.

He started cutting his teeth at open mic events and with his high school friend Lucas Roth — both of whom attended Marcos De Niza High School in Tempe.

“I started not knowing anything about the music industry and not knowing a single person in it,” he says.

“I just happened to start writing songs with a friend of mine, whom I went to high school with. We shared a passion for it. And we just started attending open mics and playing singing songs wherever we could be more people there.”

Together, the duo performed under the band named Tides in 2012 and would continue to play under different names until parting ways in 2018.

“It was just out of necessity,” Gutos says. “I knew I wasn’t going to stop (making music). So, I tried to think of a different name for myself or a pseudonym, whatever, and I couldn’t find anything that I liked, so I decided to be me.”

Since he started his solo project, Gutos says he feels that his music has become more authentic.

“I feel most at home with myself when I write about what’s going on in my world, in my life and inside of me,” he says. “I used to overthink what my music needed to mean and what I am trying to say, and at the end of it all, I think it’s good to be intellectual and to create concepts

that people can latch on to and insert themselves into.

“But ultimately, it’s just expressing what’s going on in my world in a way that I think it’s the lens in which you express it that kind of changes artists from one to another.”

He ventured into a beachy, sultry indie-pop sound that can be heard on his most recent songs “Everything (That I Need),” “Bad News” and “Givin In,” which make up 60% of the works on a fivesong EP that has not yet been given a release date.

“The EP is going to be a collection of singles that were all recorded at Highland Studio in Phoenix, but they’re all very different from one another,” Gutos says. “However, I think they fit together in some strange way.”

However, the songs all pay homage to Gutos’ hometown of Tempe and the artists who have inspired his sound.

“It’s got a lot of heart and soul emanating from the sultry streets of Tempe,” Gutos says. “If you’re a fan of back to Marco, Jack Johnson,

Portugal. The Man, and John Mayer, you may resonate with this.”

Moving forward, Gutos is eager to do more than just music.

“I’m looking to be a multimedia artist, not just simply a musician or simply a songwriter,” he says. “Music is my main vehicle because that’s what resonates with me, but I’d like to make more films and I’d like to bring people together to make music and perhaps learn from each other through songwriting workshops or meditation workshops.” CT

withkoji.com/@joey_gutos

STRAIGHT TO THE FACTS.

Are there too many voices in your head during election season? Hard to choose a path? Not knowing what’s around the next corner? Get the facts. Citizens Clean Elections Commission takes the guess work out of voting and gives you straightforward, unbiased, nonpartisan, election information.

Go to AZCleanElections.gov , or call 877-631-8891 .

Joey Gutos

BREWS & SPIRITS

BREWS & SPIRITS CALENDAR

By Annika Tomlin

OCTOBER 8

MURALS & MIMOSAS BIKE TOUR

Join FOUND:RE Phoenix for a bike tour exploring some of Downtown’s best murals. Included with a ticket is a guided bike tour and two mimosas upon returning to the venue. During the 45-minute bike ride, patrons will stop to check out street art, discuss the artists and snap photos. This is a bring-your-own-wheels event allowing scooters, rollerblades, etc.

FOUND:RE Phoenix Hotel, 1100 N. Central Avenue, Phoenix, 9 a.m., bit.ly/MuralsandMimosas, $25

OCTOBER 15

5, Tempe, 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., drinkmetearoom. com, $36.50 per person

OCTOBER 21 AND OCTOBER 22

SAVE SECOND BASE PUB CRAWL

The nonprofit Save Second Base Pub Crawl is hosting a fundraiser to raise money for someone who is fighting breast cancer. Tickets to the pub crawl allow attendees one drink at each stop, a State 48 event T-shirt and a grab bag of goodies. Participating establishments include San Tan Brewery, Murphy’s Law Irish Pub, Bourbon Jack’s American Tavern, The Perch, The Stillery, Quart Haus, Recreo, The Uncommon and Craft 64. Various locations in Downtown Chandler, savesecondbasepubcrawl.com

OCTOBER 22 AND OCTOBER 23

SALT & LIME FIESTA

OCTOBER 4

NATIONAL VODKA DAY

Celebrate National Vodka Day along with Tiki Tuesday at The Ostrich with the drink The Pirates Last Ship. Made with flavors of pineapple, lime, passion fruit, coconut, cinnamon sugar and nutmeg, this vodka drink is a festive way to pay tribute to the spirit. The Ostrich is located below Crust Simply Italian.

The Ostrich, 10 N. San Marcos Plaza, Chandler, 5 p.m. to midnight, theostrichbar.com, $10

OCTOBER 7 TO OCTOBER 9

FOUR PEAKS OKTOBERFEST

Oktoberfest returns to Tempe Town Lake for the 49th year. The three-day outdoor Bavarianthemed festival is open to all ages and features live music including Authority Zero, The Black Moods and Voyager; food and drinks; games; carnival rides and dancing. New this year are more rides, food items and a wiener dog fashion show. The annual fundraiser benefits nonprofit Tempe Sister Cities, with proceeds being used to send Tempe high school students to 10 sister cities.

Tempe Town Lake, 80 W. Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe, 5 p.m. to midnight Friday, 10 a.m. to midnight Saturday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday, fourpeaksoktoberfest.com, $20

MICHELADAS FEST

Michelada vendors from across the state will offer samples so patrons can determine a winner. The family-friendly event also features lucha libre by Chucky’s Arizona Wrestling Entertainment, music by Nuevo Regimen, Los Huatson, Proeza Norte and Perfil SS. There will be kids activities, plus food and drink vendors.

State Farm Stadium parking lot at South 95th Avenue and Cardinals Way, Glendale, 6 to 10 p.m., bit. ly/MicheladasFest2022, $20

An event to engage all the senses Salt & Lime Fiesta celebrates tacos, tequila and margaritas. Travel down the Endless Taco Row while sipping one of the 10 colorful margaritas or to test over 40 flavorful tequilas. Don’t forget that more than 40 food vendors will attend, and there’s lucha libre, a mechanical taco, lowrider show and music as entertainment. Headliners include Tyler Rich on Saturday and Shwayze on Sunday. Salt River Fields at Talking Stick, 7555 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale, 3 to 9 p.m., saltlimefiesta.com, $15-$130

Midori sour and a vodka Count Stagular. Costumes are encouraged for this 21-and-over event. Luckys Indoor Outdoor, 817 N. Second Street, Phoenix, 6 p.m., luckysphx.com

OCTOBER 29 CAVE CREEK

WICKER BAR CRAWL

The town of Cave Creek is celebrating Halloween with the return of its Wicked Bar Crawl and costume contest. Guests can devour drinks and spooktacular activities at the various participating bars and restaurants. A complimentary party bus can guests to and from each venue that include Mountain View Pub, Local Johnny’s, Big Earl’s Greasy Eats, The Hideaway, Buffalo Chip Saloon, Harold’s Cave Creek Corral and The Roadhouse. The bus will loop through venues throughout the evening for wicked costume contests, specialty themed cocktails and prizes.

Mountain View Pub, 7033 E. Cave Creek Road, Cave Creek, 6 p.m. to 2 a.m., facebook. com/CaveCreekWicked

OCTOBER 19 TO OCTOBER 30

HOCUS POCUS LITERARY TEA

Come fly into Drink Me! Tea Room to ring in All Hallows’ Eve and all things witchy with its “Hocus Pocus”-inspired afternoon tea service. Reservations include a pot of tea in any flavor, as well as gluten-free and plant-based savories and sweets. There will be spooky decorations, plenty of books and amazing photo backdrops to get in the spirit. Reservations are required. Drink Me! Tea Room, 1730 E. Warner Road, Suite

OCTOBER 27 TO OCTOBER 31

HALLOWEEN AT LUCKYS

Luckys Indoor Outdoor is going big this year with a multiday Halloween celebration featuring People Who Could Fly, OH Allen the DJ and DJ Soloman. Guests can sip on boo-zy cocktails including a spooky

NOVEMBER 4 TO NOVEMBER 5

ONE WATER BREWING SHOWCASE

In 2019, Scottsdale Water became the first water agency in Arizona permitted to treat recycled water for potable use. The One Water Brewing Showcase at Canal Convergence will spotlight beers crafted by Valley breweries made from recycled water delivered from Scottsdale’s Advanced Water Treatment Plant. Breweries include Arizona Wilderness Brewing Company, Fate Brewing Company, Goldwater Brewing Co. and Uncle Bear’s Brewery.

Canal Convergence, 7038 E. Fifth Avenue, Scottsdale, 6 to 10 p.m., canalconvergence.com

SIP » BREW » RELAX » EXPERIMENT » REFRESH » TOAST

CASINOS

‘WHEEL OF FORTUNE’

Game show hits the stage with trips, cash

By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

ClayAiken wasn’t overly sold when he was approached to host the “Wheel of Fortune Live” tour.

“I wasn’t skeptical, I’d say,” Aiken explains.

“‘Wheel of Fortune’ is legendary, and there’s no game show that’s more popular in the America, etc. How to make it work live was something I was very curious about, and — holy crap — it does work. It really does.”

The tour comes to The Linda Ronstadt Music Hall, formerly the Tucson Music Hall, on Thursday, November 3, and Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino on Friday, November 4, and Saturday, November 5, with Aiken as host.

During “Wheel of Fortune Live,” guests can audition to go onstage and feel like they stepped into the game show. Randomly selected players will have the chance to spin a replica of the iconic wheel and solve the puzzles to win prizes, including up to $10,000 in cash and trips to the likes of Paris and Hawaii at every show. Additionally, hundreds of audience members can win cash and prizes.

“It’s so fun,” he says. “Audiences lose their absolute minds. I’ve been on tour 11 times on my own with my own shows. In all the years I’ve been touring, I wish I had audiences who were that

fun, but I’m not giving away trips to Paris at my concerts. They have a reason to be more excited about ‘Wheel of Fortune.’ It’s really fun to watch.”

Aiken recently starred on Broadway, alongside Ruben Studdard, in “Ruben & Clay’s First Annual Christmas Carol Family Fun Pageant Spectacular Reunion Show” at the Imperial Theater.

This came 10 years after Aiken’s Broadway debut in Monty Python’s “Spamalot.” On the heels of “American Idol,” he became the first artist to have his first single debut at No. 1 on

Billboard’s Hot 100 chart.

His subsequent album, “Measure of a Man,” also debuted at No. 1 with the highest first week sales by a debut artist. His 2004 holiday release, “Merry Christmas with Love,” set a record for the fastest-selling holiday album of the SoundScan era and remains tied for the highest-charting debut of a holiday album.

The father to son Parker, Aiken served nine years as a UNICEF ambassador and in 2003 co-founded, with Diane Bubel, what is now the National

Inclusion Project to advocate and increase opportunities for children with disabilities to be included in extracurricular activities (such as summer camps and after-school programs) with their nondisabled peers.

Aiken is looking forward to bringing “Wheel of Fortune” back to Arizona.

“Everyone in America is a fan of ‘Wheel of Fortune,’” he says. “It’s been on for 40 years. Even if you’re not a nightly viewer, you’ve seen clips on YouTube. Holy crap. It’s the game that more people play in their living room than anything else.

“‘Jeopardy’ is wonderful, sure. There’s only a subset of people who are smart enough for that. ‘Wheel of Fortune’ is the most accessible and approachable game show. We can all sit at home and play it. To do that in person and get to spin the wheel, I’m surprised it took this long.”

“Wheel of Fortune Live”

WHEN: 7:30 p.m. Thursday, November 3

WHERE: The Linda Ronstadt Music Hall, formerly the Tucson Music Hall, 260 S. Church Avenue, Tucson COST: Tickets start at $38 INFO: 520.791.4101, tucsonmusichall.org

WHEN: 8 p.m. Friday, November 4, and Saturday, November 5 WHERE: Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, 15406 Maricopa Road, Maricopa COST: Tickets start at $38.50

INFO: caesars.com/harrahs-akchin/shows

PLAY » SPIN » LAUGH » GROOVE » UNWIND » WIN

CALENDAR

By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

Prince Again: A Tribute to Prince

7:30 P.M. SATURDAY, OCTOBER 1

Casino Arizona, 524 N. 92nd Street, Scottsdale, tickets start at $10, 480.850.7777, casinoarizona.com

Bayou Bandits

8 P.M. SATURDAY, OCTOBER 1

WKP Sports & Entertainment, We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort, 10438 Wekopa Way, Fort McDowell, free, 480.789.4957, wekopacasinoresort.com

Pick Your Poison: Poison Tribute

7:30 P.M. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 7, AND SATURDAY, OCTOBER 8

Casino Arizona, 524 N. 92nd Street, Scottsdale, tickets start at $15, 480.850.7777, casinoarizona.com

Tina Bailey Band

8 P.M. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 7

Poolside, We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort, 10438 Wekopa Way, Fort McDowell, free, 480.789.4957, wekopacasinoresort.com

Los Huracanes del Norte w/Banda La Prendida

7:30 P.M. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 7

Desert Diamond Sahuarita Diamond Center, 1100 W. Pima Mine Road, Sahuarita, tickets start at $30, ddcaz.com

Average White Band

8 P.M. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 7

Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino, 5040 Wild Horse Pass Boulevard, Chandler, tickets start at $25, 1.800.WIN.GILA, playatgila.com

Mike Reeves Band

9 P.M. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 7, AND SATURDAY, OCTOBER 8

Cliff Castle Casino, 555 W. Middle Verde Road, Camp Verde, free, cliffcastlecasinohotel.com

Str8 Up Band

8 P.M. SATURDAY, OCTOBER 8

WKP Sports & Entertainment, We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort, 10438 Wekopa Way, Fort McDowell, free, 480.789.4957, wekopacasinoresort.com

Chris Tucker

7 P.M. AND 10 P.M.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 8

Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino, 5040 Wild Horse Pass Boulevard, Chandler, tickets start at $49, 1.800.WIN.GILA, playatgila.com

Blue Öyster Cult

8 P.M. SATURDAY, OCTOBER 8

Talking Stick Resort’s The Showroom, 9800 E. Talking Stick Way, Scottsdale, tickets start at $30, 480.850.7777, talkingstickresort.com

Bill Engvall

8 P.M. SUNDAY, OCTOBER 9

Talking Stick Resort’s Salt River Grand Ballroom, 9833 E. Talking Stick Way, Scottsdale, tickets start at $55, 480.850.7777, talkingstickresort.com

Arizona Blacktop

8 P.M. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 14

WKP Sports & Entertainment, We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort, 10438 Wekopa Way, Fort McDowell, free, 480.789.4957, wekopacasinoresort.com

Aravaipa

9 P.M. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 14, AND SATURDAY, OCTOBER 15

Cliff Castle Casino, 555 W. Middle Verde Road, Camp Verde, free, cliffcastlecasinohotel.com

Priminition

8 P.M. SATURDAY, OCTOBER 15

WKP Sports & Entertainment, We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort, 10438 Wekopa Way, Fort McDowell, free, 480.789.4957, wekopacasinoresort.com

Elton: The Early Years

7:30 P.M. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, AND SATURDAY, OCTOBER 22

Casino Arizona, 524 N. 92nd Street, Scottsdale, tickets start at $15, 480.850.7777, casinoarizona.com

Precaucion Nortena

9 P.M. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, AND SATURDAY, OCTOBER 22

Cliff Castle Casino, 555 W. Middle Verde Road, Camp Verde, free, cliffcastlecasinohotel.com

I Am King: The Michael Jackson Experience

8 P.M. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, AND SATURDAY, OCTOBER 22 Conference Center Ballroom, We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort, 10438 Wekopa Way, Fort McDowell, tickets start at $39, 480.789.4957, wekopacasinoresort.com

Superhero

8 P.M. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21 WKP Sports & Entertainment, We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort, 10438 Wekopa Way, Fort McDowell, free, 480.789.4957, wekopacasinoresort.com

Shine on Floyd: Tribute to Pink Floyd

8 P.M. SATURDAY, OCTOBER 22

Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino, 5040 Wild Horse Pass Boulevard, Chandler, $25, 1.800. WIN.GILA, playatgila.com

George Lopez

8 P.M. SATURDAY, OCTOBER 22

Casino Del Sol’s AVA Amphitheater, 5655 W. Valencia Road, Tucson, tickets start at $30, 1.855.765.7829, casinodelsol.com

Thaddeus Rose

8 P.M. SATURDAY, OCTOBER 22

WKP Sports & Entertainment, We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort, 10438 Wekopa Way, Fort McDowell, free, 480.789.4957, wekopacasinoresort.com

Billy Ocean and the Commodores

8 P.M. THURSDAY, OCTOBER 27

Casino Del Sol’s AVA Amphitheater, 5655 W. Valencia Road, Tucson, tickets start at $30, 1.855.765.7829, casinodelsol.com

Bruno & the Hooligans

7:30 p.m. Friday, October 28, and Saturday, October 29, Casino Arizona, 524 N. 92nd Street, Scottsdale, tickets start at $15, 480.850.7777, casinoarizona.com

Let’s Just Play

9 P.M. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 28, AND SATURDAY, OCTOBER 29

Cliff Castle Casino, 555 W. Middle Verde Road, Camp Verde, free, cliffcastlecasinohotel.com

Andrea & Gemini

8 P.M. FRIDAY, OCTOBER 28

WKP Sports & Entertainment, We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort, 10438 Wekopa Way, Fort McDowell, free, 480.789.4957, wekopacasinoresort.com

Harry Luge: Halloween Party

8 P.M. SATURDAY, OCTOBER 29

WKP Sports & Entertainment, We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort, 10438 Wekopa Way, Fort McDowell, free, 480.789.4957, wekopacasinoresort.com

Wicked Ball: Never After

9 P.M. SATURDAY, OCTOBER 29

Talking Stick Resort’s Salt River Grand Ballroom, 9833 E. Talking Stick Way, Scottsdale, tickets start at $60, 480.850.7777, talkingstickresort.com

Prince Again

Bayou Bandits

MUTUAL RESPECT

Jake Paul, Anderson Silva hold pre-fight press conferences

By Caleb Jones

Slated

to take the ring Saturday, October 29, at Gila River Arena, social media star Jake Paul and former UFC champ Anderson Silva don’t carry the typical pre-event grudge.

Paul says he’s up for the challenge, but he showed respect for the combat sports legend during recent press conferences in Glendale and Los Angeles.

“I respect this man,” Paul says. “I’m still going to knock him out — but respectfully knock him out.”

The two-leg press tour started September 12 in Los Angeles at the NeueHouse Hollywood with Paul trekking to the facility in a Bugatti e-scooter and doing the same in Glendale. The high-profile pay-per-view match will be an eight-round fight at a catch weight of 187 pounds.

Glendale proved to be the perfect spot for the event, Paul says.

“There is a huge fight community here, a huge MMA community here that will come out to support Anderson,” Paul says during a press conference at the arena.

Paul also shares that it works for him as well because his “digital fanbase” is widespread.

Paul is a controversial figure in the world of boxing. His critics claim he is a showman who has never fought real boxing competition. His supporters would say his résumé speaks for itself.

Paul is undefeated in his boxing career with a record of 5-0, including two wins over former UFC champion Tyron Woodley and another over former UFC fighter Ben Askren. Paul says he knows some want to see him fail.

“People want to see me lose, and that’s what I built my career off of,” he says.

However, Paul also knows that he has a mass following that is behind him every time he fights.

Love him or hate him, there is no denying that his fight against Silva is his most high-profile fight. Heading into the fight, Paul says he’s in great shape.

“I’ve been in training camp basically the whole entire year, so I’m feeling really good,” Paul says.

Silva is widely regarded as one of

MMA’s greatest fighters, holding multiple UFC records. He finished his UFC career with a record of 34-11 and holds the record for the longest title reign.

Boxing is different, but Silva is no stranger to it either. Coming into the Paul fight, Silva is 3-1 in boxing with two victories by KO. His lone loss dates back to 1998 against Osmar Luiz Teixeira.

Some may say the 47-year-old Silva is well past his prime, but he says he’s in good shape as well.

“I continue training hard every day in my life. I never stop,” Silva says.

This fight will prove to be a defining moment in their careers.

“This could be a changing of the guard or you could win and silence the kid who everyone wants to silence,” Paul says.

Silva shares his perspective on the fight as well when he says, “This fight is very important for the new generation and my generation, too.”

For Paul, a win would be “surreal.”

“It would mean a lot to me,” he says. “It would continue to motivate me in ways that are unexplainable. It would be a testament to the hard work I put in. … You need moments like that to stay motivated and to continue to love the sport.”

Should Paul win, many question what this would mean for Silva’s legacy. However, he’s not concerned.

“It’s not about lose or win. It’s about how much I love this,” he says. “A loss I don’t think can affect my legacy, because everything is there.”

Paul has big plans for his boxing career.

“I will be a world champion one day for sure, the light heavyweight world champion,” he says confidently.

WHEN: 3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 29

WHERE: Gila River Arena, 9400 W. Maryland Avenue, Glendale

COST: Tickets start at $60

INFO: gilariverarena.com

ROOT

Jake Paul vs. Anderson Silva

IT’S NO EASY TASK

By Nikash Nath

Replacing a fan favorite is never an easy task, especially when said star is Arizona Diamondbacks leftfielder David Peralta.

Jake McCarthy returned to leftfield when Peralta, whose nickname is the Freight Train, was traded to the Tampa Bay Rays in late July after nine years with the team.

In the first game following the transaction, McCarthy ripped a double and did a mopey version of Peralta’s trademark move. It was a scene that went viral.

“David’s our guy,” McCarthy said. “I did it the day he got traded and kind of forgot he got traded, and I was thinking shoot, he’s not here to see it.”

McCarthy has been an impact player for the D-backs since being called up in the middle of July. McCarthy is hitting .284/.348/.439 to go along with eight home runs and 41 RBIs this season as of September 28.

The youthful outfield, which also features the likes of Daulton Varsho, Alek Thomas, Corbin Carroll and Stone Garrett, has garnered headlines for its strong defensive moves.

The 25-year-old from Scranton, Pennsylvania, said the group knows each

other well, as they spent time preparing for their major league careers in the D-backs farm system.

“It’s been a lot of fun playing with these guys. I’ve been playing with Alek, Corbin and Stone for many years, so it’s been cool to be in the system with them,” McCarthy said.

McCarthy is about as athletic as they come. He holds the Scranton High School records for rushing yards, 6,080; season, 2,105; and game, 351.

He is also the school’s all-time touchdown leader in history with 80; the season, 30; and game, 5.

He’s following in his family’s footsteps. His father, Joe Jr., played baseball at the University of South Carolina and was drafted three times.

McCarthy’s brother, Joe Jr., also played baseball at the University of Virginia from 2013 to 2015.

He made his Major League debut with the Giants in 2020.

The Arizona Diamondbacks are on track to have their best season since 2019 and McCarthy attributes the D-backs’ success to the familiarity he feels throughout the clubhouse.

“It always seems like when you have success it’s better to do it with guys who you know pretty well and care for on and off the field,” McCarthy said.

D-backs’ Jake McCarthy embracing David Peralta’s spot

SPORTS CALENDAR

By Zakkary Brog

Arizona State Sun Devils vs. Washington Huskies

OCTOBER 8

The Arizona State Sun Devils welcome the Washington Huskies to town for a Pac-12 Conference matchup. Last season, the Sun Devils faced the Huskies in Seattle and walked away with a 35-30 win.

Sun Devil Stadium, 500 E. Veterans Way, Tempe, TBD, tickets start at $34, thesundevils.com

Arizona Cardinals vs. Philadelphia Eagles

OCTOBER 9

The Arizona Cardinals will look to “protect the nest” when the Philadelphia Eagles descend upon State Farm Stadium. Likely to appear for the Eagles are quarterback Jalen Hurts, wide receiver A.J. Brown and cornerback Darius Slay Jr. When the teams last faced each other in December 2020, the Cardinals won 33-26.

State Farm Stadium, 1 Cardinals Drive, Glendale, 1:25 p.m., tickets start at $92, azcardinals.com

Preseason: Phoenix Suns vs. Sacramento Kings

OCTOBER 12

In preparation for the upcoming season, the Suns welcome the Kings to town for a preseason contest. The teams split their regular season series last year at two wins each.

Footprint Center, 201 E. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, 7 p.m., tickets start at $15, suns.com

Phoenix Suns vs. Dallas Mavericks OCTOBER 19

The Phoenix Suns open their 2022-2023 NBA regular season against the Dallas Mavericks. Likely to appear for the Mavericks are point guard Luka Doncic, center Christian Wood and small forward Tim Hardaway Jr. The Suns defeated the Mavericks in all three of their regular season matchups last season. However, the Mavericks prevailed over the Suns in the second round of the 2022 NBA Playoffs in seven games.

Footprint Center, 201 E. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, 7 p.m., tickets start at $54, suns.com

Arizona Cardinals vs. New Orleans Saints OCTOBER 20

The New Orleans Saints come marching into town to face the Arizona Cardinals. Likely to appear for the Saints are quarterback Jameis Winston, running back Alvin Kamara and free safety/former Cardinals star Tyrann Mathieu. The teams last played one another in October 2019. The Saints won 31-9.

State Farm Stadium, 1 Cardinals Drive, Glendale, 5:15 p.m., tickets start at $43, azcardinals.com

Phoenix Suns vs. Golden State Warriors OCTOBER 25

The Golden State Warriors, the defending NBA champions, come to town for a matchup with the Suns. Likely to appear for the

Warriors are shooting guard Stephen Curry, shooting guard Klay Thompson and power forward Draymond Green. The two Western Conference powerhouses faced each four times last season, with each side picking up two wins.

Footprint Center, 201 E. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, 7 p.m., tickets start at $125, suns.com

Phoenix Suns vs. New Orleans Pelicans

OCTOBER 28

The New Orleans Pelicans descend upon Phoenix to take on the Suns. Likely to appear for the Pelicans are power forward Zion Williamson, small forward Brandon Ingram and shooting guard CJ McCollum. The Suns were victorious against the Pelicans in three of the four games between the two franchises last regular season. The Suns also eliminated the Pelicans in the first round of the 2022 NBA Playoffs in six games. Footprint Center, 201 E. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, 7 p.m., tickets start at $35, suns.com

Arizona Coyotes vs. Winnipeg Jets

OCTOBER 28

A new era begins for the Arizona Coyotes as they begin play at Mullett Arena in Tempe. In the first game at their new home ground, the Coyotes will attempt to ground the Winnipeg Jets. Likely to appear for the Jets are right winger Blake

Wheeler, center Mark Scheifele and left winger Nikolaj Ehlers. The Jets defeated the Coyotes in three of their four matchups against each other last season.

Mullett Arena, 411 S. Packard Drive, Tempe, 7:30 p.m., tickets start at $167, arizonacoyotes.com

Phoenix Suns vs. Houston Rockets

OCTOBER 30

The Phoenix Suns welcome the Houston Rockets to town for an NBA Western Conference matchup. Likely to appear for the Rockets are shooting guard Jalen Green, small forward Jae’Sean Tate and shooting guard Eric Gordon. The Suns defeated the Rockets in all four of their matchups last season. Footprint Center, 201 E. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, 6 p.m., tickets start at $27, suns.com

Arizona Coyotes vs. New York Rangers

OCTOBER 30

The New York Rangers roll into Tempe to face off against the Arizona Coyotes. Likely to appear for the Rangers are center Mika Zibanejad, left winger Artemi Panarin and defenseman Jacob Trouba. The Rangers were victorious in the two games that the teams played against each other last season.

Mullett Arena, 411 S. Packard Drive, Tempe, 5 p.m., tickets start at $157, arizonacoyotes.com

‘INTO THE MAGIC’

‘Disney on Ice’ is a cool expedition for families

By Summer Aguirre

something for everybody, so it doesn’t really matter which character you connect with most — at some point, you’re going to see them out there on the ice.”

you don’t feel like you’re missing out on anything,” Teson says.

Mickey

Mouse and friends are gliding into Phoenix and inviting families on an icy, magical adventure.

Through artful skating performances, “Disney on Ice presents Into the Magic” will bring everyone’s beloved characters to life and transform the ice into a story scape celebrating bravery, love and adventure. Produced by Feld Entertainment, the tour will play seven performances from Thursday, October 6, to Sunday, October 9, at the Footprint Center.

“It’s just such a fun and vibrant show,” tour coordinator Clair Teson says. “I think it’s one of those shows that just keeps building and building and there’s

Hosted by Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse, the audience is taken through many of Disney’s classic and modern tales during a two-hour graceful, athletic performance.

They will encounter Moana as she embarks on an ocean adventure with demigod Maui to save her island and cross the Marigold Bridge into the Land of the Dead with Miguel from Pixar’s “Coco” for a brilliant cultural celebration of family. Friends from “Frozen,” “Beauty and the Beast” and “Cinderella” will also appear on the ice.

Gems of educational elements are hidden in each tale, teaching the audience about being fearless, finding joy in discouraging situations, and the many learning experiences present in everyday life.

“One of the things I really like about ‘Into the Magic’ is that it really takes each storyline and expands on it, so

She notes Rapunzel’s story as a highlight of the show, which features the princess and Flynn Rider executing a “shocking” aerial silk performance. She also hinted at a number incorporating a “big, fiery monster” out on the ice.

While kids are getting settled into school this time of year, the tour coordinator says the show is a great opportunity for parents to bond with their young ones through experiencing the magic of “Disney on Ice” together.

“I just hope that they (guests) get to come and have a really good time, and then take that home with their family and those memories of what they saw,” she says. “The moments of awe where they’re just looking up and being amazed — that’s something they’ll be able to talk about forever.”

Since many events were paused due to the COVID-19 pandemic over the past few years, “Into the Magic” may be the first live entertainment experience for a number of children.

“It’s going to be really incredible to be back there and see the show actually happen and have the audience get to see what we had brought to them three years ago when we shut down, so I’m excited for Phoenix,” Teson says.

Launched in 1981, the “Disney on Ice” traveling team consists of a total of 90 to 100 people, including Teson and three other coordinators, nearly 50 performers, a sales team and crew members.

“It’s amazing when you look at what we produce every week and how there’s only five staff members behind the whole group putting all the pieces together,” Teson says.

“Disney on Ice presents Into the Magic”

WHEN: Various times from Thursday, October 6, to Sunday, October 9

WHERE: Footprint Center, 201 E. Jefferson Street, Phoenix COST: Ticket prices start at $20 INFO: disneyonice.com, ticketmaster.com

FROLIC » DISCOVER » IMAGINE » FAMILY » FUN » CONNECT

LIVE MUSIC CALENDAR

By Connor Dziawura

OCTOBER 1

23rd Annual Mariachi and Folklórico Festival

Chandler Center for the Arts, 7 p.m., $48-$58

Ani DiRusso

The Rebel Lounge, 6 p.m., $16-$18

Black Bottom Lighters

Murphy Park, 7 p.m., free

Dylan Scott and Erin Kinsey

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $25-$28

Gettoblaster

Darkstar, 9 p.m., $9.75-$13

Harry McGraw

Tap Dragon, 7 p.m., free

Herb N’ Life

Last Exit Live, 9 p.m., $25-$50

James Kennedy

Salt Norterra, 9 p.m., free

Khruangbin

Mesa Amphitheatre, 7 p.m., $54.50-$60

Lisa Fischer

Tempe Center for the Arts, 7:30 p.m., $30-$45

Los Ángeles Azules

Arizona Financial Theatre, 8 p.m., $29-$355

MitiS

Sunbar, 8 p.m., $21-$1,500

Mosara

Yucca Tap Room, 7:30 p.m., $5

Sabrina Claudio

Marquee Theatre, 8 p.m., $29.50-$128.50

$uicideboy$

Phoenix Raceway, 7 p.m., $85-$180

Suzanne Vega

Musical Instrument Museum, 7:30 p.m., $54.50-$74.50

Twin Temple

The Nile, 7 p.m., $22-$129

Upsahl

Valley Bar, 7:30 p.m., sold out We3

The Nash, 7:30 p.m., $14.80-$45

MUSIC

OCTOBER 2

Charlotte Sands

Valley Bar, 7:30 p.m., $16-$91

Clark Gibson

The Nash, 6 p.m., $5-$10 or free for instrumentalists and vocalists who sit in

Delphine Cortez

Sings Nancy Wilson

The Nash, 3 p.m., $12.80-$40

Grace Kelly

Chandler Center for the Arts, 7 p.m., $28-$38

Grand Opening Extravaganza w/ Big Pete Pearson, Sir Elton John tribute, Sandra Bassett, Beth Lederman Trio, Rhythm Edition

Band and Dennis Rowland

Mesa Jazz and Blues Theater, 6:45 p.m., $29.50-$49.50

James Kennedy

Salt San Tan, 10 a.m., free

Knotfest Roadshow w/Slipknot Ak-Chin Pavilion, 6:30 p.m., $29.50-$289

Metric

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $36-$40

Steve Vai

Celebrity Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $40-$80

Suzanne Vega

Musical Instrument Museum, 7 p.m., $54.50-$74.50

Thick

The Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $15-$18

Too Many Zooz

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $23-$25

Vintage Vinyl Concert w/Big Zephyr

The Rhythm Room, 4 p.m., $15

OCTOBER 3

Anees

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $25-$28

Carbon Leaf

Musical Instrument Museum, 7 p.m., $38.50-$49.50

Lizzy McAlpine

The Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., sold out

Mom Jeans

The Nile, 7 p.m., $25-$28

Roger Waters

Gila River Arena, 8 p.m., see website for tickets

Westside Boogie

Valley Bar, 8 p.m., $22-$130.60

Zeal & Ardor

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $26.50-$32

OCTOBER 4

Arlo Parks

Marquee Theatre, 8 p.m., $26-$56

Clutch

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $35-$38

The Doobie Brothers

Arizona Financial Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $79.50

Enter Shikari

The Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $25-$28

Lagwagon

The Nile, 8 p.m., $28.50-$30

Soft Kill

Last Exit Live, 8 p.m., $17-$20

Thee Sacred Souls

Valley Bar, 7:30 p.m., sold out

OCTOBER 5

Flipturn

Valley Bar, 8 p.m., sold out

Horrorpops

Marquee Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $30-$60

The Midnight

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $30-$35

North by North

Yucca Tap Room, 8 p.m., free Satsang

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $21-$76

Skerryvore

Musical Instrument Museum, 7 p.m., $33.50-$44.50

The Superstition Jazz Orchestra

The Nash, 7:30 p.m., $6-$21

Tamino

The Rebel Lounge, 7:30 p.m., $18-$20

Wide Awake

The Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., tickets available at the door

Zach Williams

Arizona Financial Theatre, 7 p.m., $18-$74.25

OCTOBER 6

Action Park

Yucca Tap Room, 8 p.m., free

Kurt Rosenwinkel Quartet

The Nash, 7 p.m. and 9:15 p.m., $18.80-$55

Magdalena Bay

The Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $20-$23

Marcus King

The Van Buren, 7 p.m., $39.50-$42.50

NOTD

Valley Bar, 8 p.m., $17-$20

The Queers

Pub Rock Live, 7:30 p.m., $20

R Generation, Fiighter, Pop Icons, Woke Up New and Captain Sarcasmo

The Rhythm Room, 7 p.m., tickets available at the door

Soul Persuasion

Murphy Park, 7 p.m., free

Stevie Nicks

Ak-Chin Pavilion, 8 p.m., $59.50-$625

OCTOBER 7

Average White Band

Gila River Resorts & Casinos - Wild Horse Pass, 8 p.m., $25-$55

Bring Me the Horizon

Arizona Financial Theatre, 6:30 p.m., $59.50

Donny Benét

The Rebel Lounge, 8:30 p.m., $20-$23

Flamenco Intimo

Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts’ Stage 2, 8 p.m., $30.50-$34.50

Goldrush: Neon Dreams

Phoenix Raceway, 6 p.m., $66.75-$1,250

Iceage and Earth

The Underground, 8 p.m., $22-$25

In Memory Of…

Yucca Tap Room, 7 p.m., $10

Jacob Banks

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $27.50-$30

James McMurtry

Musical Instrument Museum, 7:30 p.m., $33.50-$44.50

Jason Ross

Sunbar, 9 p.m., $22-$1,500

Jordy Searcy

Valley Bar, 7 p.m., $17-$20

Mike Pinto

Last Exit Live, 8:30 p.m., $15-$20

Marcus Mumford

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $49.50-$55

The Not Just for Lovers Only Quartet

The Nash, 7 p.m., free

The Originals

Pub Rock Live, 7 p.m., $10

Pepe Valenz

The Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., $15

Santa Pachita

Murphy Park, 7 p.m., free

Shinedown

Ak-Chin Pavilion, 7 p.m., $29.50-$99.50

Tower of Power

Mesa Arts Center’s Ikeda Theater, 8 p.m., $30-$60

Young Nudy

Celebrity Theatre, 9 p.m., $30-$40

LISTEN » JAM » INNOVATE » EVOLVE » ROCK » SING

OCTOBER 8

Andrew Bayer

Sunbar, 9 p.m., $28-$1,500

Blue Öyster Cult

The Showroom at Talking Stick Resort, 8 p.m., $30-$80

Corky’s Leather Jacket

Yucca Tap Room, 7 p.m., free

Flamenco Intimo

Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts’ Stage 2, 8 p.m., $30.50-$34.50

Fortunate Son (AXS TV’s world’s greatest tribute band for Creedence Clearwater Revival)

Murphy Park, 7 p.m., free

Frankie and the Witch Fingers

Last Exit Live, 7:30 p.m., $15-$18

Goldrush: Neon Dreams

Phoenix Raceway, 6 p.m., $66.75-$1,250

Gunhild Carling

The Rhythm Room, 8:15 p.m., $25

Ivan & Alyosha

Valley Bar, 7 p.m., $15-$18

Julia Jacklin

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $18-$20

Los Huracanes del Norte

Celebrity Theatre, 8 p.m., $44-$99

The Luka State

Pub Rock Live, 8 p.m., $16-$18

Max Bemis

The Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $20-$25

Michael Powers Presents

“Neck and Neck”

The Nash, 7:30 p.m., $10.80-$35

Mike Clark Quartet Mesa Jazz and Blues Theater, 7 p.m., $29.50-$39.50

Pusha T and IDK

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $37-$42

Tribal Seeds

Marquee Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $26-$46

OCTOBER 9

Adam Clark

The Nash, 6 p.m., $5-$10 or free for instrumentalists and vocalists who sit in

Brass Against

The Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $25-$28

Dayglow

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $29.50-$35

Goldrush: Neon Dreams Phoenix Raceway, 6 p.m., $66.75-$1,250

The Noisemakers

The Rhythm Room, 7 p.m., $12

Restless Road

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $16-$56

Sloppy Jane

Valley Bar, 7:30 p.m., $17-$20

Zach Deputy

Last Exit Live, 8 p.m., $20-$23

OCTOBER 10

The Black Keys

w/Band of Horses

Ak-Chin Pavilion, 7 p.m., $39.50-$539

Ceramic Animal

The Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $15-$18

Jukebox the Ghost

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $22-$97

The Lucky Devils

The Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., tickets available at the door

Meshuggah

Marquee Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $40-$60

Mike Clark featuring Charlie Hunter and Charles McNeal

Mesa Jazz and Blues Theater, 7 p.m., $29.50-$39.50

Om

The Nile, 7 p.m., $25

The War on Drugs, Adam Miller and Inner Magic

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $39.50-$45

OCTOBER 11

Aulnes

Yucca Tap Room, 8 p.m., free

The Bad Plus Musical Instrument Museum, 7 p.m., $33.50-$44.50

Bloodywood

The Nile, 7 p.m., $20

C-Kan, MC Davo and Dharius

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $35

FKJ

Marquee Theatre, 8 p.m., $30-$105

Gruesome

The Underground, 7 p.m., $18

Karol G

Footprint Center, 8 p.m., $200-$606

KBong and Johnny Cosmic

The Rebel Lounge, 7:30 p.m., $17-$20

Mac Saturn Valley Bar, 7:30 p.m., $14-$16

Nashville Songwriters in the Round featuring Ivy & the Wall, Jessi Lynn and Sarah Peacock The Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., $22

New Years Day

Last Exit Live, 7:30 p.m., $17-$20

Pi’erre Bourne

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $30

OCTOBER 12

Bit Brigade

The Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $16-$18

Joyner Lucas

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $30-$35

The Palmer Squares

Last Exit Live, 8 p.m., $15-$18

Sabrina Carpenter

Marquee Theatre, 7:30 p.m., tickets unavailable

Van Morrison

Arizona Financial Theatre, 7 p.m., $669

OCTOBER 13

Atlas Past

The Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., tickets available at the door

Brea Burns & the Boleros Murphy Park, 7 p.m., free

Chandler/Gilbert CC & Basha HS

The Nash, 7:30 p.m., $5-$15

Dehd

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $25-$28

Delphine Cortez and Joel Robin

The Nash, 4 p.m., free

Dylan LeBlanc

Last Exit Live, 8 p.m., $16-$18

Kings of Thrash

Crescent Ballroom, 7:30 p.m., $30-$40

Minuit Machine

The Rebel Lounge, 9 p.m., $18-$25

Yellow Ostrich

Valley Bar, 7 p.m., $15-$18

OCTOBER 14

All Strummed Out

Tap Dragon, 6 p.m., free

Bonobo

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $35-$38

California Guitar Trio w/Montréal Guitare Trio

Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts’ Virginia G. Piper Theater, 8 p.m., $42-$48

The California Honeydrops Marquee Theatre, 8 p.m., $30-$50

Cold Shott

and the Hurricane Horns

The Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., tickets available at the door

Ealdor Bealu

Yucca Tap Room, 9 p.m., free

Flamenco Intimo

Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts’ Stage 2, 8 p.m., $30.50-$34.50

Illuminati Hotties

Valley Bar, 7 p.m., $18-$20

Lamb of God

Arizona Financial Theatre, 6 p.m., $69.50-$172.50

Leonid & Friends

Higley Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m., $45-$55

Mark Farina Darkstar, 9 p.m., $18-$23

Nella

Mesa Arts Center’s Piper Repertory Theater, 7:30 p.m., $40

The New Power Generation Musical Instrument Museum, 7 p.m. and 9 p.m., $38.50-$64.50

The Righteous Brothers

Mesa Arts Center’s Ikeda Theater, 7:30 p.m., $47-$99

Shine on Floyd (Pink Floyd tribute band) Murphy Park, 7 p.m., free Spag Heddy Sunbar, 9 p.m., $18-$1,500

Suedo

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., tickets are not available

OCTOBER 15

Aida Cuevas

Scottsdale Center for the Performing

Arts’ Virginia G. Piper Theater, 8 p.m., $45-$75

Arcadia Worship

The Rebel Lounge, 5:30 p.m., $13-$15

Comedy Night w/Soulbird Murphy Park, 7 p.m., free

Dave Clark

Tap Dragon, 6 p.m., free deadmau5

Arizona Financial Theatre, 8 p.m., $39.50-$49.50

Droeloe

Sunbar, 9 p.m., $17.50-$1,500

Flamenco Intimo

Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts’ Stage 2, 8 p.m., $30.50-$34.50

House Party R&B w/Geo

Bowman, Lucius Parr, Bam Bam and Christina Chiles

The Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., $12

Jane Monheit

Musical Instrument Museum, 7:30 p.m., $44.50-$49.50

Martin Bejerano

#CubanAmerican Trio

The Nash, 7:30 p.m., $14.80-$45

Panchiko Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., sold out

Partiboy69

Darkstar, 9 p.m., $13.69-$18.25

Quebradita Time

Mesa Amphitheatre, 7 p.m., $60-$80

The Paranoyds

Valley Bar, 7 p.m., $15-$18

Sandra Bassett Jazz Quintet Mesa Jazz and Blues Theater, 7 p.m., $29.50-$39.50

Smells Like Nirvana

Last Exit Live, 9 p.m., $20-$25

Toast – The Ultimate Bread Experience

Higley Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m., $29

We Might Be Wasted

Yucca Tap Room, 9 p.m., free

OCTOBER 16

Alec Benjamin

Arizona Financial Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $29.50

Chapter & Verse

Darkstar, 4 p.m., $11.25-$15

Chris Finet

The Nash, 6 p.m., $5-$10 or free for instrumentalists and vocalists who sit in

Cochise

Valley Bar, 8 p.m., $22-$87

Graham Nash

Celebrity Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $36$296

Griffin House

Musical Instrument Museum, 7 p.m., $28.50-$38.50

Jake Scott

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $20-$33

Jeremy Camp

GCU Arena, 7 p.m., $30-$159.50

Summer of Love

The Rhythm Room, 4 p.m., tickets available at the door

A Tribute to Tony & Frank With Tony Frank

The Nash, 3 p.m., $12.80-$40

Twin Void

Yucca Tap Room, 8 p.m., free Waylon Payne

The Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $16-$20

OCTOBER 17

Action Bronson

Marquee Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $45-$80

Carly Rae Jepsen

Arizona Financial Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $46-$162.50

Death Cab for Cutie

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $59.50-$65

High Desert Queen

Yucca Tap Room, 8 p.m., free

Maude Latour

The Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $23-$25

SayWeCanFly

The Underground, 7 p.m., $15

Yellow Days

Crescent Ballroom, 7:30 p.m., $25-$28

OCTOBER 18

Anat Cohen Quartetinho featuring Vitor Gonçalves, Tal Mashiach and James Shipp

Musical Instrument Museum, 7 p.m., $38.50-$44.50

CoComelon Live! JJ’s Journey

Arizona Financial Theatre, 6 p.m., $35.50-$230.50

The Dead Tongues

Last Exit Live, 8 p.m., $15-$17

Electric Callboy and Attack Attack!

The Nile, 6 p.m., sold out

Hell Fire

Pub Rock Live, 7 p.m., $13

Michigander

The Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $15-$18

Niki

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $36-$52

Novo Amor

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., sold out

Will Hoge

Valley Bar, 7:30 p.m., $20-$23

OCTOBER 19

Alesana

The Nile, 7 p.m., $25

Band-Maid

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., sold out

Beach Weather Valley Bar, 7:30 p.m., $20-$23

Jean Dawson

The Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $20

Moodie Black

The Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., tickets available at the door

Muna and Meet Me

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $31-$36

Stanley Serrano

Tap Dragon, 6 p.m., free

OCTOBER 20

Delphine Cortez and Joel Robin

The Nash, 4 p.m., free

Grupo El Regreso

Murphy Park, 7 p.m., free La Dispute

The Nile, 7 p.m., $25

Lauren Ruth Ward

Last Exit Live, 8 p.m., $15

Lexi Jayde

Valley Bar, 8 p.m., $20-$22

Real Friends and With Confidence

The Rebel Lounge, 7 p.m., sold out

Shovels & Rope

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $26.50-$40

OCTOBER 21

Chris Botti

Musical Instrument Museum, 7 p.m. and 9 p.m., $95.50-$145.50

Drew Harrison: In the Spirit of Lennon

Higley Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m., $45-$55

Flamenco Intimo

Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts’ Stage 2, 8 p.m., $30.50-$34.50

Glaive Valley Bar, 7 p.m., sold out

Glen Gross Quintet

The Nash, 7:30 p.m., $12.80-$40

Julien-K and Priest Pub Rock Live, 7 p.m., $18

Lil Nas X

Arizona Financial Theatre, 8 p.m., $127.50-$298.50

Man Man

The Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $20-$23

Pancho Barraza Celebrity Theatre, 8:30 p.m., $50-$120

Rundown Kreeps

Yucca Tap Room, 9 p.m., free

The Senators

Murphy Park, 7 p.m., free Shadow of Intent

The Nile, 6 p.m., $20

The Smithereens featuring Robin Wilson

Marquee Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $25-$60

Thornetta Davis

The Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., $20

OCTOBER 22

Big Sandy and His Fly-Rite Boys

The Rhythm Room, 7 p.m., $20

Chris Botti

Musical Instrument Museum, 7 p.m. and 9 p.m., $95.50-$145.50

College Radio

Yucca Tap Room, 8 p.m., free

Deorro

The Van Buren, 9 p.m., $30-$35

The Fab Four Mesa Arts Center’s Ikeda Theater, 8 p.m., $35-$65

Flamenco Intimo

Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts’ Stage 2, 8 p.m., $30.50-$34.50

G-Space and smith.

Darkstar, 9 p.m., $13-$18

Jack Kays

The Rebel Lounge, 7:30 p.m., $18 Moksi

Sunbar, 9 p.m., $22.50

Nick Manson & Friends

The Nash, 7:30 p.m., $10.80-$35

Nicole Pesce

Mesa Jazz and Blues Theater, 7 p.m., $29.50-$39.50

Oteil & Friends

Marquee Theatre, 8:30 p.m., $40-$85

Peach Tree Rascals Valley Bar, 7 p.m., $20-$22

Shine on Floyd

Gila River Resorts & Casinos - Wild Horse Pass, 8 p.m., $25

Silver Sage Band Benefit for Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center

Higley Center for the Performing Arts, 7 p.m., $35

Surfin’ (The Beach Boys tribute) Murphy Park, 7 p.m., free

Vacations

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $25-$38

OCTOBER 23

Felix Cavaliere’s Rascals and Micky Dolenz

Celebrity Theatre, 7 p.m., $35-$85

Flor de Toloache

Musical Instrument Museum, 7 p.m., $38.50-$49.50

Francine Reed

The Nash, 3 p.m., $14.80-$45

Matt Vandal

The Rhythm Room, 6 p.m., tickets available at the door

Micro TDH Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $34.50-$134.50

Panic! At the Disco Footprint Center, 7 p.m., $25.50-$337.20

Stan Sorenson

The Nash, 6 p.m., $5-$10 or free for instrumentalists and vocalists who sit in

OCTOBER 24

Alex G and Hatchie

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $25-$30 OFF!

Valley Bar, 7:30 p.m., $20-$25

Superorganism

Crescent Ballroom, 7:30 p.m., $20-$23

OCTOBER 25

Astronaut & Wasp

Valley Bar, 7:30 p.m., $15-$20

Charlie Burg

The Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $16-$18

Elevation Worship and Steve Furtick

Gila River Arena, 7 p.m., $29.75-$995

Johnny DeFrancesco

Musical Instrument Museum, 7 p.m., $28.50-$33.50

Monolink

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $30-$35

Soweto Gospel Choir

Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts’ Virginia G. Piper Theater, 7:30 p.m., $28-$68

Taylor Ashton and Bella White

Last Exit Live, 8 p.m., $12-$15

Varials

The Underground, 6 p.m., $18

OCTOBER 26

Agent Orange

Yucca Tap Room, 7:30 p.m., $15

ASU Latin Jazz Band & Combos

The Nash, 7:30 p.m., $5-$15

The Legendary Pink Dots

The Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $23-$25

The Roof Rats

The Rhythm Room, 7 p.m., tickets available at the door

Sophie B. Hawkins

Musical Instrument Museum, 7 p.m., $38.50-$49.50

OCTOBER 27

Analog Monsters

The Rhythm Room, 7 p.m., $12

Black Jacket Symphony

Presents “Led Zeppelin IV” Marquee Theatre, 8 p.m., $23-$33

A Day to Remember

Mesa Amphitheatre, 5:10 p.m., $72

Mercyful Fate

w/Kreator and Midnight Arizona Financial Theatre, 7 p.m., $59.50-$903.50

Outside the Line

Murphy Park, 7 p.m., free

The Sugar Thieves

Tempe Center for the Arts, 7:30 p.m., $10-$15 or free for Experience Circle members

OCTOBER 28

AFI

Marquee Theatre, 8 p.m., tickets unavailable

Annika Chambers and Paul Deslauriers

The Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., $20

Body Language Halloween Weekender w/Chris Lorenzo

Renaissance Square, 5 p.m., $26-$59

Fiji Blue Valley Bar, 7 p.m., $18

Flamenco Intimo

Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts’ Stage 2, 8 p.m., $30.50-$34.50

Four Year Strong and Enemy of the World

The Nile, 6 p.m., $25

Gold Necklace and Andrés

The Underground, 6 p.m., $18

I Prevail

The Van Buren, 7 p.m., $45-$50

Jimmy Eat World, The Maine, Thursday and PVRIS

Arizona Financial Theatre, 7 p.m., $49-$121

A SENSE OF COMMUNITY

Anarbor hopes to reconnect with the Valley

By Luke Hertel

Anarbor frontman Slade Echeverria says COVID-19 was exactly what he and his band needed to make what he believes is their best record to date — 2022’s “Love and Drugs.”

The project was conceived in 2020 when the band decided to scrap an entire collection that was set to be released right as the pandemic hit, which caused Anarbor to rethink it.

“Me and Danny sat back, and we (decided) it wouldn’t make sense to release the record during COVID,” says Echeverria, referring to his bandmate Danny Stravers. “And it just wasn’t good enough. We scrapped all the songs and took all the time during COVID to just write and record the record, so nothing was rushed.”

Echeverria says the time off created a slow-burn effect for the record because they could sit on it and look at all the possibilities for the effort.

“We had all the time that we needed, which is really nice because usually when you’re doing a record, you get two weeks to do it,” Echeverria says. “We definitely got to take our time and make the best songs that we could out of it.

Langhorne Slim

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $25-$38

Las Cafeteras

Chandler Center for the Arts, 7:30 p.m., $38-$58

The Nash 10th Anniversary Celebration w/Cocomama

The Nash, 7 p.m. and 9:15 p.m., $16.80-$50

Oso Oso

The Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $19-$22

Phoenix Afrobeat Orchestra

Murphy Park, 7 p.m., free

Punk Rock Halloween Bash X

Yucca Tap Room, 7 p.m., free

R. Carlos Nakai, William Eaton and Will Clipman

Musical Instrument Museum, 7:30 p.m., $33.50-$49.50

Yehme2

Darkstar, 9 p.m., $13.69-$18.25

OCTOBER 29

Bee Man Dan’s 50th Birthday Charity Extravaganza w/Pherkad and Planck

Last Exit Live, 8 p.m., $25-$35

So, COVID actually helped us, to be completely honest.”

Echeverria says “Love and Drugs” is a bit of a departure from Anarbor’s poppunk roots.

“It’s definitely still the same Anarbor, but it has a bit more of a fresh sound to it,” Echeverria says. It’s not as pop punk. It’s more of like a pop-rock record, I would say.”

Matt Keller returned as producer for “Love and Drugs.” Keller has worked with the band on all its projects since 2016 and provides a fresh focus that Echeverria says he does not see often.

“With a lot of these (producers), you go to write a song with them and they don’t take it as serious,” Echeverria says. “The lyrics aren’t very serious, but Matt really goes all the way in. He wants to see it all the way through. He tries to make the best song that everybody in the room can. It’s not about ego, and he really understands that, which is nice.”

“Love and Drugs” crisscrosses genre boundaries, according to Echeverria. However, he says one song can describe the project and Anarbor’s future sound.

“I would say ‘Letter in a Suitcase.’ It’s got the high energy that Anarbor has always had,” Echeverria says. “But it also has more space, and the instrumentation is definitely different. We’re not going (all out) on it with palm muting and whatnot.

“I think that opens up a whole new world for Anarbor. I’d say ‘Letter in a Suitcase’ resembles the future of this band because we’re still going to be always a rock band, but I’m such a sucker

Blue October

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $35-$38

Body Language Halloween Weekender w/Gorgon City

Renaissance Square, 3 p.m., $29-$59

Flamenco Intimo

Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts’ Stage 2, 8 p.m., $30.50-$34.50

Itzy

Arizona Financial Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $378.50-$528.50

Kai Wachi Sunbar, 9 p.m., $700-$2,000

King Buffalo

The Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $18-$20

Makaya McCraven

Musical Instrument Museum, 7:30 p.m., $33.50-$44.50

Midland Mesa Amphitheatre, 6:30 p.m., $47.50-$125

The Nash 10th Anniversary Celebration w/the Lewis Nash All-Star Quintet

The Nash, 7 p.m. and 9:15 p.m., $23.60-$89

for pop, and that’s what I’m best at. So, we’re mixing the two and seeing what comes out.”

With the release of “Love and Drugs,” the band is trying to hearken back to its Arizona roots, something Echeverria feels Anarbor missed since it formed in Phoenix in 2003.

“I want to get more in touch with everybody locally,” Echeverria says. “I want to branch out to Phoenix, because I feel like we missed that in our in our 20 years of being a band.”

Anarbor will return home to perform at Wasted Grain in Scottsdale on Thursday, November 3, with the band

OMNOM

Darkstar, 9 p.m., $15.75-$21

Ozuna Footprint Center, 8 p.m., $59-$830

Plains

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $25-$28

Punk Rock Halloween Bash X Yucca Tap Room, 7 p.m., free

Soul Junkies

The Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., tickets available at the door

Studio 54 - The Disco Explosion

Murphy Park, 7 p.m., free

The Sugar Thieves

Mesa Jazz and Blues Theater, 7 p.m., $29.50-$39.50

Viper

Pub Rock Live, 7:30 p.m., $29

Wicked Ball w/Regard, Imanbek and Sander Van Doorn

Salt River Grand Ballroom at Talking Stick Resort, 9 p.m., $60-$200

Young Culture and Super American Valley Bar, 7 p.m., $16-$18

The Higher.

“We haven’t played with a national band in a while,” Echeverria says.

“Wasted Grain is a great venue, lots of space, so should be a good time. Highenergy show for sure.”

The Higher and Anarbor

WHEN: Time TBA Thursday, November 3

WHERE: Wasted Grain, 7295 E. Stetson Drive, Scottsdale COST: Call for ticket prices INFO: 480.970.0500, wastedgrain.com

OCTOBER 30

Babe Rainbow

Last Exit Live, 8 p.m., $17-$20

Bobby Weir & Wolf Bros featuring the Wolfpack

Celebrity Theatre, 7:30 p.m., sold out Chloe Moriondo

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $23-$58

Foals

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $35-$40

Mike Vax 80th Birthday Show

The Nash, 1 p.m., $12.80-$35

The Nash 10th Anniversary Celebration w/SCC Jazz Orchestra with Jimmy Greene

The Nash, 7:30 p.m., $12.80-$40

W.A.S.P.

Marquee Theatre, 8 p.m., $35-$67

The Who

Ak-Chin Pavilion, 7:30 p.m., $45-$960

OCTOBER 31

Duckwrth

Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $22-$50

King Princes and Em Beihold

The Van Buren, 8 p.m., $32-$35

HOMETOWN HEROES

Jimmy Eat World, The Maine collide for one night

By Alex Gallagher

Thelast time The Maine crossed paths with Jimmy Eat World, it was at a chilly 2010 outdoor show on New Year’s Eve in Tempe that saw The Maine play much earlier than Jimmy Eat World.

This time around, the two bands will co-headline for a special one-night-only hometown show on Friday, October 28, at the Arizona Financial Theatre.

“We’re both playing a festival in Las Vegas in October, and when we wanted to do another show in the market, Phoenix seemed sensible,” Jimmy Eat World drummer Zach Lind says at a press conference announcing the show on August 23.

THE MAINE

The Phoenix alt-rockers find this show exciting because they’re sharing a stage with a band that’s been around nearly twice as long as them. The Maine recently celebrated its 15th anniversary; Jimmy Eat World will fete 30 years in 2023.

“I think, for us to be asked to play with them, there is a sense of validation, but also we feel like there’s an accomplishment that comes with it in that we get to share the stage with someone that we look up to,” vocalist John O’Callaghan says. “There’s a level of us trying to temper our excitement, just because we don’t want to come off as completely nerding out, but we’re feeling all of those things.”

“It’s also a show that our friends have texted us about nonstop, which is I guess what happens when you’re on a bill with a band like Jimmy Eat World,” bassist Garrett Nickelsen says with a laugh.

A side from that, The Maine is looking forward to standing amid the roar of its hometown crowd for the third time in 2022 — following its performance at the Arizona Financial Theatre that preceded its annual 8123 festival in January.

“Every time we played here, it’s always been a festival, so playing this venue and a proper show is going to be awesome,” Nickelsen says.

“In terms of the support we’ve been shown from the city and the Valley in general, I feel like there’s an emotional attachment to it because it’s not just a place that we’re playing for the night and then leaving the next day. There’s an inward sort of pride that comes with it,” adds O’Callaghan, an alumnus of Mountain Pointe High School.

The Maine promises a set filled with

songs that die-hard fans will cherish and newer fans will hum along to.

“There’s always a level of excitement that comes with songs that more people come collectively together and say, ‘We all like this,’” O’Callaghan says. “We’ve been very fortunate to have a wide variety of songs that resonate with our fan base.

“But ‘Loved You a Little’ is the song that is most recent for us that we haven’t had a ton of time to play across the world yet, so I feel like that’s one I’m most anxious to see how it kind of plays out.”

The Maine drummer Pat Kirch also teased that the band could collaborate with opening act and Phoenix-based singer/songwriter Sydney Sprague on a song she is featured titled “Into Your Arms.”

However, The Maine says that fans can almost certainly expect authenticity from their performance and some entertainment.

“Hopefully (fans) experience some authenticity, and hopefully it’s entertaining,” O’Callaghan says. “Even if it’s not their bag of music, then hopefully they can come away and feel like they saw something relatively unique and something that they can only see

when they see our band play.”

JIMMY EAT WORLD

It’s been seven years since Mesa alt-rockers graced an Arizona stage, as their last hometown performance came during an 18-song set list during 2015’s Summer Ends Festival at Tempe Beach Park.

A lthough the band has kept busy, vocalist/guitarist Jim Adkins says he always wanted to do something special for his hometown.

“We’ve always been saving a hometown show for some reason or another, and we didn’t want to just do something just to do something. We wanted it to be special,” says Adkins, who graduated from Mountain View High School alongside Lind. “But then other opportunities come up, and that ate into our hometown gig.”

With this show, Jimmy Eat World will treat fans to live renditions of the band’s newest tracks, including the single “Something Loud”

“I think we’re most excited about your newest thing,” Adkins says. “I’m excited to play our song ‘Something Loud’ in front of people in our hometown. It’s been getting good reactions everywhere else

we’ve played it, so we’re pumped on it.”

The song is also exciting, as it discusses the band’s formative years, according to bassist Rick Burch.

“It talks about being young and excited and discovering playing music with friends,” says Burch, who went to Westwood High School.

A side from a set that spans three decades, Jimmy Eat World aims to show off the community of rockers in the state.

“I want people to walk away from it feeling like they participated in a community,” Adkins says. “There are three local bands on the show, so hopefully everyone will feel like they’re a part of a community.”

Jimmy Eat World and The Maine w/PVRIS, Thursday and Sydney Sprague

WHEN: 7 p.m. Friday, October 28

WHERE: Arizona Financial Theatre, 400 W. Washington Street, Phoenix COST: Tickets start at $43 INFO: jimmyeatworld.com, themaineband.com and livenation.com

EVENING UNDER THE STARS

Live! @ Murphy Park returns in October

By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

Live@ Murphy Park concert series is bringing 13 nights of free entertainment at the venue’s amphitheater.

It kicks off at 7 p.m. Saturday, October 1, with the reggae act Black Bottom Lighters.

Guests can imbibe in historic Downtown Glendale’s food and shops; however, food trucks will be on-site, and beer and hard seltzers will be available.

“We have amazing bands, and we’re hosting a comedy night where we have five comedians,” says Heidi Barriga, Glendale special events administrator.

“‘Live’ is more than just music. We have something for everyone.”

Other acts include Fortunate Son, a Creedence Clearwater Revival tribute act; Shine on Floyd, a Pink Floyd tribute act; and Grupo El Regreso.

“We’re super excited and honored that we have Phoenix Afrobeat Orchestra coming out again for a free night of music,” she adds.

“People typically have to do a ticketed event to be able to see them. We have some great Latin music as well. We have everything. The indie-folk band The Senators play in small venues around

town for a ticketed event, typically.”

Barriga chalks up the talent finds to special events program manager Dawn Marquez.

“We have a great staff here,” Barriga says. “She does amazing research to see who’s playing at local venues and what tribute bands are touring in this area around this time. We look for local bands who have huge followings on social media or those who are up and coming who have a large following.”

Artist Sloth will paint the “Live @ Murphy Park” logo on-site, and it will be on display for the rest of the series.

“We’re just excited to get people back out here,” she says. “There’s nothing better than seeing people enjoying a beautiful night out — couples on a date, people dancing or tapping their feet. It’s family friendly, but it’s just a good time for the adults to break away, too.”

Live @ Murphy Park

WHEN: 7 p.m. throughout October

WHERE: Murphy Park, Downtown Glendale COST: Free INFO: https://bit.ly/ LiveatMurphyPark

COMPLETE LINEUP

• Saturday, October 1: Black Bottom Lighters (reggae)

• Thursday, October 6: Soul persuasion (R&B and oldies)

• Friday, October 7: Santa Pachita (Latin fusion)

• Saturday, October 8: Fortunate Son (Creedence Clearwater Revival tribute)

• Thursday, October 13: Brea Burns & the Boleros (country)

• Friday, October 14: Shine on Floyd (Pink Floyd tribute)

• Saturday, October 15: Comedy Night w/the band Soulbird

• Thursday, October 20: Grupo El Regreso (Latin/cumbia)

• Friday, October 21: The Senators (indie folk)

• Saturday, October 22: Surfin’ (The Beach Boys tribute)

• Thursday, October 27: Outside the Line (Motown soul)

• Friday, October 28: Phoenix Afrobeat Orchestra (Afrobeat)

• Saturday, October 29: Studio 54: The Disco Explosion

Black Bottom Lighters

A GOOD ‘OMEN’

Lamb of God anxious to give new songs a run

By Alex Gallagher

Metal

veterans Lamb of God will be fresh off the release of their ninth studio album

“Omens” — which hit shelves and streaming platforms on October 7 — when the band stops into the Arizona Financial Theater a week later on Friday, October 14.

Because of this, guitarist Mark Morton is anxious to give his band’s latest work some stage time.

“It’s just a fresh collection of Lamb of God,” Morton says. “I don’t think it’s going to shock anyone in terms of its style, but it sounds fresh and modern.”

A lthough the album does not differ stylistically from the riff-heavy, blastbeat backed and the thunderous screaming sound echoed by vocalist Randy Blythe, Morton says the band took a renewed approach.

“We recorded all of the parts all together on the floor at Henson studios in Los Angeles so we didn’t have to piece this together on a computer,” Morton says. “We set up in a room and recorded live together, and (because of that) it’s got a real pulse and a real genuine, exciting energy to it.”

Morton says that led to the authentic sound on “Omens.”

“(It) added a realness,” he says. “If you put the headphones on and listen really close, you can hear little inconsistencies and little idiosyncrasies that add character to the record.

“So often, those things are edited out or things are copied and pasted to death to where everything sounds artificial and perfect — which is cool — but this record is not perfect, it’s genuine and it’s real.”

Because of the rawness of the tracks, Morton feels that the two singles that have seen stage time — “Omens” and

“Nevermore” — have gone over well with audiences.

“It’s an interesting balance being a veteran band like us,” Morton adds. “(When) people come to see a Lamb of God, there are certain songs they just absolutely expect to hear, and we have to consider that we can’t just come out play all new songs, but we’re working some new stuff into the set, and it’s been a lot of fun to see how it goes.”

Because of this, Morton says the band will feature hits like “Redneck,” “Walk with Me in Hell” and “Laid to Rest.”

“We have a master list that we put together of a combination of songs that we feel like we need to play because they’re very standard cornerstones of the set at this point,” he says. “Then we have a list of additional songs that we want to

play, and then we’ll continue to change the set list a little bit each night.”

Other changes are a rotating group of support acts. Joining the band on its Arizona Financial Theater stop will be fellow metal heavyweights Killswitch Engage, the instrumental metal act Animals as Leaders and a band with ties to Arizona in Fit for an Autopsy — as vocalist Joe Bad resides in Mesa.

“With the bill we have, it’s rotating and it’s moving around over the course of the tour,” Morton says. “I enjoy that I like the fact that we can include so many great bands and that bill in Phoenix is a strong one for sure.”

Morton hopes that fans enjoy themselves and view the show as an omen of good times to come.

“I think live music and music, in

general, is just kind of a release for people to navigate maybe some of the stuff that builds up over the course of our lives. It’s the same thing for me,” he says. “I just want people to have a good time, and I want people to show up for a few hours and not worry about the problems and just have it have a good time.”

Lamb of God w/Killswitch Engage, Animals as Leaders and Fit for an Autopsy

WHEN: 6 p.m. Friday, October 14

WHERE: Arizona Financial Theater, 400 W. Washington Street, Phoenix

COST: Tickets start at $49.50

INFO: livenation.com, lamb-of-god.com

A COMMUNITY OF BELIEVERS

Christian singer Jeremy Camp still has hope to share

By Summer Aguirre

Sincethe success of the spring leg of his tour, Christian singersongwriter Jeremy Camp has been eager to hit the road again. The Grammy-nominated musician is making a stop in Phoenix during the fall expansion of his countrywide “I Still Believe” tour. With Premier Productions, he will be leading the community in a night of worship at 7 p.m. Sunday, October 16, at the Grand Canyon University Arena.

“There’s a lot of anticipation because the spring leg went so well that I think all of us were just kind of ready to go back on tour again,” Camp says. “I think when you connect with people and you’re able to see people share encouraging stories about God using the nights, it just makes you excited by going back out.”

His first major performance at Grand Canyon University since the pandemic, Camp is looking forward to sharing God’s message and coming together as a community of believers.

“There are a lot of people who are still just hurting and need a sense of hope,” Camp says. “I think the heart is that people would walk out with our understanding that our true hope is in Christ and that there’ll be comfort, peace and that they’ll just truly be encouraged.

“I think from the bottom of my heart that is my heart’s desire, as much as we work really hard at making this the best show and production possible.”

Being on a college campus, Camp says he will connect with the audience by being his true self — from getting excited and jumping off the gym riser to sitting down and taking a moment to share his heart.

“I think this younger generation is really seeking just real, true authenticity,” he says. “I think that, for me, I’m just going to be myself. I’m not going to try to do anything outside of who I am.”

The tour, which will span 18 U.S. cities, kicked off on September 15 in Buffalo, New York, and will wrap up on October 23 in Austin, Texas.

“I Still Believe” has a different touch to it than Camp’s previous tours, as it draws upon the eponymous film based on his memoir. Released in 2020, the movie follows the shared experiences of Camp and his first wife as they navigate her ovarian cancer diagnosis shortly before their marriage.

While he doesn’t always share his testimony, the Indiana native feels drawn to revisiting this part of his story during his current tour.

“I have new things that God is teaching me, new things that are happening in my life,” he says. “So, this is kind of going back and sharing that season of my life again. That’s what makes it a little more unique.”

Over the course of his decorated twodecade career, Camp has released more than 10 albums, with five certified gold by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). His latest album, “When You Speak,” dropped in 2021.

The “I Still Believe” set list will draw from each of Camp’s albums, with the addition of an acoustic section. He is especially excited to perform some of his newer songs, such as one of his current favorites, the single “Getting Started.”

Joining Camp as the opening act of his tour extension is Christian singer Katy Nichole, a Mesa native.

New to the music scene, Nichole released her debut single “In Jesus Name (God of Possible)” in January, which has spent 12 weeks at No. 1 on Billboard’s Hot Christian Songs chart. She has since dropped her second single with Christian band Big Daddy Weave, “God is in This Story.”

Camp, who calls Nichole one of the easiest individuals to work with, has been encouraging her and sharing his knowledge.

“She’s so great. … She’s just so excited and just so thankful to be out,” he says. “I think that, to me, that excitement and

gratitude is so huge because you want to start off with that gratitude, because if you keep that mindset … then you don’t feel like you’re entitled to anything. She has just a sweet heart of gratitude, for sure.”

Jeremy Camp w/Katy Nichole

WHEN: 7 p.m. Sunday, October 16

WHERE: Grand Canyon University Arena, 3300 W. Camelback Road, Phoenix COST: Tickets start at $24; with preshow experience available INFO: 1.855.484.1991, platformtickets.com