She’s the ultimate diva, the reigning queen of the happily-ever-after love song, Eminem’s recent arch-nemesis, cougar, frequenter of the A-town clubs, close friend of our own artist, Jermaine Dupri.  Though her movie, Glitter, flopped, her far less glamorous performance as a social worker in Precious is now raking in critical acclaim.  Like the jewels ornamenting her flossy frocks, Mariah Carey just keeps getting better with time.

On top of the diamonds and gold, Mariah Carey is flanked in many of her music videos by what can be viewed as a current who’s who of hip hop’s biggest players. A legend amongst legends, Mariah has shared the spotlight with the likes of Snoop Dogg, Pharrel, Bustah Rhymes, T.I., and Gucci Mane.  And that’s just naming a few.

Certainly she is one of the foremost female vocalists of our time, showcasing an unprecedented range and strength.  Her pitch perfect high notes are the eighth natural wonder.

But to young girls far and wide, Mariah will always be Butterfly.  Fantasy.  Always Be My Baby.  The Emancipation of Mimi.  She’s the key to unlocking one’s inner princess, and perfect excuse to sing into a hairbrush late at night in front of the mirror.  Wallowing wouldn’t be nearly so sweet without Mariah Carey cooing from the car stereo, volume turned all the way up, windows rolled all the way down.

Wednesday night at the Fox Mariah Carey simultaneously lives up to the woman behind the myth as well as my pre-teen nostalgia when she floats down a billowing purple backdrop on a swing, holding a microphone bedazzled in crystals.  She also has a matching bedazzled microphone stand, that throughout the show would never be where it was supposed to be, much to Mariah’s oft-expressed chagrin.  At one point she totes the sparkling stand across the stage herself, jokingly asking the crowd, “Am I the only one working tonight?”

It is precisely this combination of a prima donna attitude and accessibility to her fans that has endeared Mariah to single ladies for so long with hits such as “Shake It Off,” “It’s A Wrap,” and as of late, “Obsessed.”  Of course, she performs all three at the show, but when “Obsessed” plays, seemingly everyone in the building pipes up for “You’re a Mom and Pop / I’m a corporation / I’m a press conference / You’re a conversation.”

The posh Fox Theatre is a befitting venue for the over-the-top performer.  Mariah makes the most of its luxurious stage, resplendent with her band, backup singers, beautiful shirtless male dancers, gorgeous ballerinas, and one performance that memorialized the recent tragedy in Haiti.  For that particular number, Mariah dedicates “Angels Cry” to the victims of the 7.0 earthquake, as two trapeze artists writhe around a rope in a heartwrenchingly ethereal depiction.  The mood is mournful, and many tear-streaked faces emerge under the soft spotlights.

Special guest performers include Jermaine Dupri, emerging shortly after Mariah’s grand descent, who opens the show with “Shake It Off.”  Trey Lorenz later pays tribute, along with Mariah, to Michael Jackson’s “Summertime,” immediately catapulting those few audience members left in their seats to their feet.  R.I.P. M. J.

In what many of those present would later discuss as a “perfect finale,” Mariah sings “Hero.”  And what was the grand Fox Theatre suddenly becomes my bedroom, I’m in front of my mirror, and Mariah is singing to me.  Then the lights go up, and I’m not 15 anymore, and I file out of the ritzy digs alongside an entire crowd who has just been reminded that they are their own heroes.  And I realize that the reason we love Mariah so much is that she reminds us to love ourselves, whether encouraging us to “Make It Happen” or “like the Calgon commercial. . . get up outta here and go somewhere.”

We love you Mimi!

Mariah Carey Complete Set List:

Shake It Off

Touch My Body

Fly Like A Bird

Make It Happen

Angels Cry- Dedication to Haiti Victims

Subtle Invitation

My Life

Michael Jackson’s Summertime ft. Trey Lorenz

Heartbreaker

Honey

It’s A Wrap

I Give My All

Emotions

Obsessed With Me

We Belong Together

Hero

Everybody knows you have to belt the blues.  And when the lights grow dimmer, and the mood becomes softer, you have to croon them.  Sue G. Wilkinson, along with her eight member band gets you high when you feel low, and when you’re low they get down with you.

A veteran musician, Sue G. Wilkinson tackles the keys at the Five Spot in a rousing performance, with a spunk equal to any barroom brawl.  But the Five Spot is no saloon, and this band is far from dive-ey.  Rather, they’re lively.  When joined with the bass, guitar, drums, trumpet, saxophone, not to mention the diva-licious backup babes, The Sue G. Wilkinson Band is an experience in jumpin’ and jivin’.

Sue G.’s vocals are as uninhibited as the classic Janis Joplin with the higher, uproarious melody of the more modern Duffy.  The song “Bitter Girl” evokes the 70’s during the era of Laura Nyro’s “Stoned Soul Picnic.”

With their swaying hips and lustrous harmonies, the backup singers, Rachel Nussbaum and Linda Jackson bring R&B, Funk and Fusion themes, and positively seduce with the song “Hold My Heart.”  Johnny Hibbert on sax and Miko (just Miko) on the trumpet, alongside Reese Harris on the drums summon the ghosts of the Big Easy with their New Orleans Brass style in “Work it out.”

The SGW Band brings the house down with “Big Black Woman,” wild and titillating as the after-church-basement-boogie-blues.  Lee Spivey on guitar and Mike Cady on bass both deliver a heavy dose of rockin’ blue-eyed soul.

It seems apt that SGW Band boldly traverses genres in a venue such as the Five Spot, a bar that is also in the business of uniting different elements.  The Five Spot pairs fine beers as well as a full bar with local art displays and live entertainment, performed on a stage backed by a giant movie projector for an engaging artistic experience.

The band attracts crowd of all ages, mostly hip with a significant number of admiring fellow musicians, and left standing room only to see The SGW band even though the performance fell in the midst of an ice storm.  But once The Sue G. Wilkinson Band takes the stage, they light a fire.  And it is hot!

For more info on The Sue G. Wilkinson Band as well as show dates:  sonicbids.com

The Sue G. Wilkinson Band’s performs next at Shorty’s on February 19th. Bring your stomping shoes!

Call me Ebeneezer Scrooge, but this particular holiday not even Mariah Carey’s Christmas album on loop was contagious enough for this grinch to catch the merry bug buzzing around the block.  Vagina Jenkins, Atlanta’s premiere prima donna and Creative Loafing’s “Best Burlesque Dancer” finally launched me into the spirit of the season.  The Big Freeze: A Holiday Spectacular, starring the Lady Miss Jenkins herself and local playwright Johnny Drago, is a blitz (bling+glitz) of local talent at the Eyedrum, the non-profit performance art space located just south of downtown.

The celebration begins with a variety show including Dickie Van Dyke’s groovy drag performance as Elvis singing “Santa Claus is Back in Town.” The show also included trapeze, by aerial artist Mel Mushill, and valiant effort by ambientdischord (Vivian Elliott) to rouse the crowd with her song “Queer Revolution.”

Honorable mention goes to Sadie Hawkins for her lyra routine – trapeze hoola-hoop – simultaneously the ribbon-wearing girl-next-door with the thousand-watt smile and the vixen showcasing a bicep strength I had previously attributed only to Madonna, as well as to Alex Abarca and Corian Ellisor for lavishing the audience with their man-on-man, packed muscle-on-muscle contemporary dance routine.

After the cabaret is Johnny Drago’s play, “Little Fruitcake’s Non-Specific Winter-Holiday Miracle,” which follows the plight of male prostitute Little Fruitcake – performed by Drago – in his efforts to escape his pimp, Sweet Nuthin’ (Emma Crandall).  In an admittedly “low-brow” twist on “It’s a Wonderful Life,” former Mayoral candidate Kyle Kaiser pokes fun at himself in a surprise cameo. He plays Little Fruitcake’s laptop toting, blackberry-texting “Non-Specific Winter Holiday Angel.”  Nods to infamous locales such as the recently ill-fated Cleremont Lounge charm, receiving enthusiastic cheers of recognition.

Ever classy and ever Atlanta’s own, Vagina Jenkins delivers in an unforgettable burlesque, the soundtrack of which began with the classic “Carol of the Bells” and slowly transitions into funkier tunes the closer Ms. Jenkins becomes to pasties.  With a lengthy set, multiple costume changes, and a lovely silhouette number performed behind a backlit sheet, the tease is complete in this fabulous finale to a heartwarmingly unconventional holiday extravaganza.

The Red Light Café presents the Atomic Rockets and Psycho Devilles
(21^st at 8:00pm)
Located on Amsterdam Avenue, the café is full of art work from locals, giving it an artsy feel. Both bands are in the rockabilly genre. Grab an after dinner drink at The Red Light, and spread your musical horizon wings a little farther.
Information

The Soul Shakers playing at Blind Willie’s
(22^nd at 9pm)
In Virginia Highlands there is a Cajun restaurant by the name of Blind Willie’s. They have been infamous for years for being one of the best blues clubs around. The Soul Shakers are a rhythm and soul rock and roll band. They are very influenced by the 50’s and 60’s. Come get some Cajun food and listen to The Soul Shakers for $5.
Information

Cavalia in Atlantic Station
(22^nd at 8:00pm; 23^rd at 3:00pm & 8:00pm; 26^th at 3:00pm & 8:00pm; 27^th at 2:00pm and 7:00pm)
Cavalia is not something to miss in your lifetime. It takes place in the huge white tent you may see in your peripheral view while driving on the highway. Come be amazed by the strong and magical bonds that are held between these acrobats, dancers, and the 60 beautiful horses.
Tickets

Day Before Christmas Eve Jam at The Five Spot
(23^rd at 9:00pm Doors Open)
The Five Spot is very diverse, on other nights they feature live art, animations, and many genres of musicians playing. The jam will be featuring Uprise, Charlie P, and EP3 PA Set. If you can make it before 10:00pm, you’re free!
Information

Halo Lounge holds the Matzo Ball
(24^th at 8:00pm)
This will be a high-energy night full of matchmaking and networking. The Society of Young Jewish Professors has been presenting this ball for 23 years now. They encourage Jewish singles to come out, but all nationalities are welcome! It is surely to be a crazy night full of partying at the magical Halo Lounge.
Tickets

Ice Skating at Centennial Park
(24^th at 10:00am – 5:00pm; 25^th at 5:00pm – 10:00pm)
Atlanta’s only outdoor ice skating rink is in the middle of Centennial Park! It’s the thirteenth year of their holiday tradition, which includes their extended holiday hours. At only $7, this is definitely a fantastic holiday event.
Information

The Laughing Skull Lounge presents comedian Dan Mengini
(26^th at 8:00pm & 10:00pm; 27^th at 7:00pm & 9:00pm)
In the back of the Vortex Bar and Grill is where the Laughing Skull Lounge settles. They are the smallest full-time comedy venue in the world, but bring some of the bigger names in. Dan has been on Adult Swim, One Tree Hill, and has over 35 television appearances. This is a great chance to experience both great comedy and an atmospheric restaurant in the heart of Little 5 Points.
Tickets

Atlanta Botanical Gardens presents Holiday Nights
(26^th - 30^th at 5:00pm – 10:00pm)
Take a relaxing walk through the magical gardens full of lights and take a look at the model trains chugging along. Take advantage of their extended hours! There will be holiday music accompanying you through your journeys, along with a cash bar!
Tickets

Everybody wants to spend their vacation at a place that offers a lot of worthwhile events and activities. To really enjoy, you should be at the right place at the right time. Since there are a lot of holiday destinations around the world, you should be able to point out where you want to go. Why look any further when U.S.A alone is enough to offer you everything you’re looking for in a perfect holiday.

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Atlanta has always been known as the city with rich history and culture. It is even called “the city not too busy to care.” This city is also referred to as a perfect example of a very successful urban growth and development and evidence of this can be seen in Atlanta hotels that are considered as some of the best in the country.

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The Paramount Studios, the Hollywood Sign, and the purple and yellow Lakers – these icons bring only one city to mind – LA! People visiting Los Angeles have different purposes in mind; however, whatever your purpose is, you can always find cheap hotel rates Los Angeles for a more practical trip and accommodation.

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Picture-perfect weather, miles of wonderful beaches, and the kindest people on Earth are what make San Diego really a popular tourist destination. This gem found in Southern California is actually one of the most beautiful cities in the country. San Diego combines the old-fashioned charm of Mexico added with the modern and contemporary edge. In a city where the sun resides, San Diego is indeed the best place to get away for stimulation and relaxation. Are you planning to go to San Diego for a holiday? If so, do your hotel reservations San Diego now!

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There is a new kind of music seeping into the streets of Atlanta. It is new, but familiar. It is simultaneously rebellious, emotional, and sexual; something that grabs onto your collar, pulling you into what feels like a music video and leaving you wanting more.

It comes from an Atlanta based, unsigned, 4-piece band named FishHawk. The music created by this band is reminiscent of 80′s synthpop, with electro beats and vocals that reach notes that most bands cannot. When I hear their music, I think of an abstract painting. The strokes of the brush are a random compilation of colors and textures. When done correctly it elicits emotions unique to the listener – no two people will interpret this music in the same way.

…simultaneously rebellious, emotional, and sexual…

I was able to see them perform live at The Star Community Bar – and they exceeded my expectations. The live performance is by far the best thing they offer. A close second would be the recorded tracks available on their two albums.

The music was loud, rough and dripping wet from the intensity that is usually only found from more seasoned professionals. FishHawk provided everything you could want in a live show, plus a bit of comedy which came as they dedicated a song to H1N1. Very original.

Each member of this band brings something important to the table. Andy Slagle and Nick Nickerson are the two original members- creating the first album. Andy handles production and plays the guitar, with Nick as the lead vocalist and writer. They later added Matt Williams to the group, who also works in production and during the live performance was on both the guitar and keyboard. Most recently added member is Ryan Ross, who is the drummer of Teddy and the Bears. When they come together, the show is powerful.

…strokes of the brush are a random compilation of colors and textures. When done correctly it elicits emotions unique to the listener – no two people will interpret this music in the same way…

I spent the past week familiarizing myself with the music of this band. If you don’t get the chance to listen to all the songs – let me recommend two songs from each of the albums that will provide you with an overview of what you will find.

On the self-titled first album I recommend the song ‘Corner Store’. It is an interesting mix of acoustic and electronica, adding a tinge of Spanish influences in the background at around 45 seconds. Secondly check out ‘Go Heels Boy’, later being remixed into ‘Go Heels Dance Meoff Mix’. Both are dance songs that will get your feet moving in the “right direction”.

The second album, Bells Underwater, can be summarized with the song ‘Shake Your Dime’. The vibe is more hardcore rock, which you will see more of in this album. It is a great illustration of what the music sounds like during the live performance. Also on the second album is ‘Into the Sunset’ which is my favorite from both albums. It has an emotional edginess with a contagious beat. It is a prime example of the vocal aptitude of Nick Nickerson.

The first album is volatile and dark. There are many similarities between the style of this album and the popular Nine Inch Nails song ‘Closer’ which many argue was their most famous song. The second album brought some additional production value that I believe they needed. Beats are a little faster, similar to the bands MGMT and Phoenix , with a style that is more retro.
If you are ready to get a taste of what FishHawk has to offer, then check out their website at www.fishhawkmusic.com. Here you can listen to some of their best songs, free of charge. Also look for their upcoming shows so you can go out and support this local band. You won’t regret it.

Trust me, 5 out of 5 doctors recommend FishHawk to help liven up that boring play list you have had on repeat. They will get you on your feet and moving in no time!