Because one day of free entertainment, insane fun and “responsible” drinking isn’t enough, Social Programming Board has gotten together to make the entire week before W.I.L.D. super special. Don’t know who SPB is? It’s Gargoyle, Filmboard, Team 31 and CPC (Campus Programming Council). Those who bring you concerts, movies, comedians and good clean excitement are teaming up and going all out. Why? That is a good question. But why look a gift horse in the mouth? Let’s look at what is under the gift horse’s late September, non-denominational garden plant.
Monday
Animal Collective at the Gargoyle
The kick-off event is hosted by the Gargoyle, in the Gargoyle. Animal Collective is a freak-folk indie band from NYC, whose latest album, “Strawberry Jam,” was released September 11. The band boasts a powerfully energetic live show, performing both recorded and released hits as well as songs currently under production and some exclusive to the specific show. Animal Collective can frustrate fans by playing obscure material, but it’s nice to know that what you hear was written for only you. While pre-sale tickets are sold out, tickets are available tomorrow at the door. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. and the show begins at 8 p.m. At $5 with a WU ID and $15 for the public, this is a sweet deal for one of the most talked about bands of the fall.
Tuesday
The Good Life at the Gargoyle
Gargoyle follows up with The Good Life. Tim Kasher, frontman for the Saddle Creek staple Cursive, is heading to the Gargoyle as the second stop of his fall tour. The Good Life’s fourth album, “Help Wanted Nights,” also dropped on September 11 and promises to make the live show one to remember. Kasher’s lyrics are full of emotional, and at times exceedingly personal, anecdotes from his life. Be sure to arrive early to hear Capgun Coup, the newest addition to Team Love Records, founded by Conor Oberst of Bright Eyes fame. Tickets are still available for free at Edison Box Office with a WU ID, $10 for the public. Doors open at 7:30 p.m., show begins at 8 p.m.
Wednesday
‘American Hardcore’ in McMillan 149
KWUR is hosting a movie screening on Wednesday night for those of you who like to get music history through filmed media. “American Hardcore” is a documentary exploring the beginning of hardcore punk rock as well as major changes in the genre. Featuring interviews with members of Black Flag, Minor Threat, Pantera, and D.Y.S., not to mention that the Red Hot Chili Peppers’ always fascinating bassist, Flea, makes an appearance. The movie is much more than an opinion of one man; it details a genre that has gone on to influence most modern ‘punk’ music. American Hardcore is a great way to be introduced to the hardcore scene with very little chance of receiving a broken nose. The screening begins at 7 p.m. in McMillan 149.
Thursday
Flaming Lips concert DVD screening in McMillan 149
For those of you who have musical taste, and aren’t 21, Filmboard is here to offer you a tiny bit of heaven. The Flaming Lips will be playing a 21+ sold out show at the Pageant this coming Friday, but it’s likely you don’t have tickets. Filmboard is making it up to you with a present that deserves a thank you card. The Flaming Lips have finally released a concert DVD, “U.F.O.s at the Zoo.” Best described as a concertumentery, the film recounts the day of the Lips’ infamous concert at the Oklahoma City Zoo. It features interviews with Wayne Coyne, the guy in charge of getting the aliens to dance, the duct taping of the stage set and interviews with fans. The interviews are haphazard and of an exceedingly bizarre variety (let’s face it-Flaming Lips fans are of an exceedingly bizarre variety) and yet they convey the main message of a Lips show. It’s not just about the music, its about an experience. Let Wayne Coyne show you what you’ve been missing out on by attending jam bands shows. Dancing Santas, a giant lit UFO, fake blood and, of course, the giant crowd surfing bubble all make an appearance. It isn’t to be missed. The screening begins at 7 p.m. in McMillan 149.
Friday
Second Stage in Bowles Plaza and Evening of Comedy in Graham Chapel
A two-for-one kind of day, Team 31 is hosting Second Stage and CPC is putting on a Night of Comedy.
Second Stage is your chance to see fellow students either impress you or make fools of themselves while you eat lunch in Bowles Plaza. Either scenario is worth the trip to Mallinckrodt instead of Holmes for your wrap. Second Stage begins at 11 a.m. and is over by 3 p.m. Contact Team 31 for more information about performing.
CPC is rounding out the week with an Evening of Comedy in Graham Chapel. Dan Ahdoot, Jo Koy, Eric Andre and Michelle Buteau will all be on campus Friday to tickle our funnybones. According to the board game Operation, the funnybone is located at the elbow, so be a dear and wear a T-shirt for easy access. Dan Ahdoot not only appeared on the NBC show “Last Comic Standing,” he also wrote for Comedy Central’s “Crank Yankers.” Jo Koy is well known for his various Comedy Central specials, as well as opening for Dave Chappelle and Snoop Dogg. Eric Andre helps round out the evening with quirky delivery and energetic live performances. Michelle Buteau has appeared on Comedy Central’s Premium Blend. The only woman on the bill, she will surely change you’re mind about women being unfunny. Doors at 7:30 p.m., Show at 8 p.m.
Saturday
W.I.L.D. in the Quad
W.I.L.D. doesn’t need any introduction. If you haven’t had EST called on you, here is your big chance. Nothing makes for great memories like not remembering who was performing. Just so you know before you start killing brain cells, Lupe Fiasco, DJ Unk, Kid Beyond and the Sugarhill Gang will be blowing your mind starting at 4 p.m. Why show up early? Rumor has it Team 31 is bringing back the couches, but now all you have to do is show up early and claim yours-no more carrying it to the Quad. Plus free BBQ, pizza, soda and water. Even if you aren’t into rap, it will be nice to give yourself some leeway with points by eating lunch and dinner compliments of your own Activities Fee.
Not sure if you want to go?
Check out reviews of “Strawberry Jam” and “Help Wanted Nights,” as well as myspace for songs by everyone mentioned above. Still not sure? Well then maybe you weren’t designed for fun.