A rare chow-golden retriever mix famed for their ability to sniff out unallocated frequencies on the radio spectrum, Zsa-Zsa came to the KYXS-LPAM team on Columbus Day from the Yavapai Humane Society.
She and her canine partner, Zelda, are currently "negotiating" who will be top dog in the studio. More on this story later!
Dateline New Orleans - - As you can imagine, I don't have much time for reporting save for saying it doesn't look great, but it could look worse.
We're holding tight in a fortified bunker on high ground, but I'm still committed to getting your news to you.
Monday: Pizza, Pitcher and a Picture night continues. I've not heard what the film of the week is, but if Brian stays on track with the great films he chose last month...it's gonna be a good one. 8:30pm
Tuesday: Tuesday's dinner has been moved to Friday and Saturday. Why? Well, Tony has a guest chef coming up. Chef Dale Swann from Tucson's Canyon Ranch will be in the kitchen all weekend. What does this mean for you? Make plans for the weekend...there's gonna be a whole lotta goodness coming out of the kitchen.
Thursday: Acoustic Soul-Folk from Brooklyn, New York with Benyaro. Recently compared to the likes of Ray LaMontagne and Cat Stevens. 8pm
Friday: Jonathon Best is back in the house with specialty groove ensemble "Jigabe". 8pm
Saturday: Adam Schrader will be back at the turntables spinning all the tunes you forgot you loved so much. 7pm
This evening a tropical depression sits outside the window forcing me to pay closer attention to things that happened on August 24th past. On this date in 2006 the International Astronomical Union declared Pluto was no longer a planet, which was a grim proposition for those of us who were raised using clever mnemonic devices to master the universe. Arguably worse was the 79 AD eruption of Mount Vesuvius which destroyed the Roman cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum with a fury of fire and volcanic ash. Sometimes it takes a mini-hurricane to send you on a trip down memory lane. But for you in Prescott...memories will be made in the days to come.
Monday: Tonight's movie will be "Better Off Dead." This movie was our first real glimpse into the genius that is John Cusack, and the basis for a string of one liners like, "I want my two dollars." Among 80's cult phenomena in cinema, "Better Off Dead" definitely rests in the top 10. See you at 8:30pm
Tuesday: Tony is going Mediterranean and your menu is filled with all the fixins you'd be looking for if you were stuck on a little island just off the coast of Greece.
Herb Crusted Rack of Lamb Almond Chicken Pork Tenderloin with Sage and Capers Spaghetti Puttanesca Kalmata Olive and Caper Crostini Summer Squash Patties Arancini Baked Eggplant with Tomato and Mozzarella
Thursday: On our last attempt to book this band there was some conflict with the schedule. Now, we've finally gotten a date nailed down and we could not be more excited. Michael Krassner and Try Me Bicycle return. Michael Krassner has worked with members of everyone in the progressive music world including Wilco, Sonic Youth, Bonnie "Prince" Billy and Tortoise. He is trying out his newest material exclusively at The Raven. Try Me Bicycle is a Phoenix based band discovered and produced by Krassner. Currently they've been getting a lot of hype on NPR. You will not want to miss this show. 8pm
Friday: Local songsmith Pat Beary returns with a full band and a dazzling set. If you know Pat, you are already making plans to be here. If you don't...imagine a more hopeful version of Elvis Costello and you'll be close to the mark. 8pm
Saturday: Continuing our mining the Jazz scene of Prescott, we will be joined by Milt Cannon and The Cannonfire Quintet. I've seen Milt play before and he's dynamite. This will be his first show at the Raven, and if you're into jazz you'll love this one. 8pm
Your Album of the Week: If you find yourself turning over rocks looking for the latest great band you may have never heard of...Dr. Dog will not disappoint you with their new album "Fate". It's my favorite thing to listen to while I'm riding my bike these days.
By now many of you have heard of Michael Phelps insane domination of the Olympic games and his record setting achievements. He's an uber-athlete, an unwavering patriot, and until we are told to cease and desist by his attorneys, an ardent supporter of the Raven Cafe.
We've actually been in charge of putting together a playlist for his iPod, and if you look closely, you'll notice him sporting his Raven Cafe gear throughout his interview sessions.
All we can say is, "Thanks, and congratulations on a job well done." You may not be able to hop the next flight to Beijing, but you can rest easy in knowing the rest of the world is talking about Prescott, Arizona and The Raven Cafe right now.
Things to do this week between Track and Field events:
Monday: Pizza, Pitcher and a Picture night continues with "Heathers". This twisted classic achieved cult status the day it arrived on VHS. Shannen Doherty and Christian Slater...together in one definitive cinematic masterpiece. It's like "Beverly Hills 90210" meets "Very Bad Things" with a dash of "Friday the 13th" and a shake of "Revenge of The Nerds". 8:30pm
Tuesday: Tony is putting together a Chef's Choice Menu. Technically that means he's still working out the details and I have to go to press. Fear not...he's always on top of his game and sometimes your stomach needs a good surprise.
Also on Tuesday...Jed is going to be in to play a set during Happy Hour (4-6pm)
Thursday: Our monthly Jazz Jam Sessions are becoming quite popular amongst the players in town. It's an opportunity for musicians of all ages to get on stage together and show their best improvisational skills. 8pm
Friday:Headline Bluegrass Band from Phoenix is making their first appearance at The Raven. We know you love the bluegrass, and we're happy we found these guys. Come out and show them some support. 8pm
Saturday: Local jazz merchants, Bob Shimizu and Beginner's Luck will be playing their first show with us. This local jazz scene is so dynamic and we couldn't be happier to provide a venue for the diversity and talent of local players. 8pm
Sunday: Jonathon Best returns to the Old-Upright for a Brunch set. Remember, brunch is the most important meal of the week.
Your Album of the Week: Drivin' N Cryin' frontman Kevn Kinney released his first solo album, "MacDougal Blues" in the late 1980's. It was also his best. Not just his best, but actually a great album. I've never owned a copy because it has been out of print since the early 90's. I did have a taped copy though, and I wore it out a few months ago. Then, just last month, they rereleased the album. It's a must have (especially for you Greg).
The great thing about Sunday is that in most cases it's an opportunity to have a rest, make plans with friends, and cook a pot of rabbit gumbo. At least, that's what's happening around my house today.
You may be thinking that sounds a little weird...you may be thinking something like, "Rabbits. That's crazy talk. I only use squirrel or nutria in my kitchen." Well, I'm not going to say a pot of squirrel gumbo isn't something special, but there's just something about rabbit in August.
This week there may not be any rabbit on the menu at the Raven, but we've got plenty of other great things in store for you.
Monday: Pizza, Pitcher and a Picture night continues with "Three O'Clock High". Now I have to be honest here...I've never seen or heard of this film. I do, however, get the sense that it is filled with actors who were almost famous and may have made it big had they not gotten trapped in the localized fame of the 80's. Is it an overlooked classic? You be the judge and let me know what you think. 8:30 pm
Tuesday: Chef Tony Burris loves fast cars and time travel. As a result he's put together an inspired menu of Thai fusion.
Lemon Grass and Coconut Chicken Steamed Veggies with Peanut Sambal Duck with Red Curry, Pineapple and Tomatoes Fried Tilapia with Ginger and Garlic Sauteed Beef and Chilis *all over White Rice and Sesame Greens Wonton Chips with Fresh Veggies Spring Rolls with Peanut Sambal
Wednesday: Verde Watershed Wednesday returns to inspire you, educate you, and empower you to make a difference with important issues facing our local watershed.
Thursday: From Tucson... Chris Black is an amazingly dynamic musician that can play most any instrument and commands the stage with a presence and sound that seems to blur the line between Johnny Cash and Nick Cave. He's played the Raven a few times now and has dazzled with each performance. This is one of those shows that makes going out on a Thursday night worthwhile. 8pm
Friday: From Tucson, Music Video? I'm not asking...that question mark is part of their name. They're like a lo-fi Radiohead mixed with a little Flaming Lips and a dash of the Postal Service. They're getting a lot of attention on NPR right now, and I think deservedly so. 8pm
Saturday: From Tucson (are you noting a theme here?)... Marianne Dissard and Will Elliot. This is one of those amazingly special shows that you will not want to miss. Marianne Dissard is a native of France who moved to Tucson following in the footsteps of Howe Gelb, and the guys who would become Calexico. Her new album was produced by Joe Burns and features members of Calexico and Willie Nelson's band throughout. The album plays like a 30's french western version of Bob Dylan's Pat Garret and Billy the Kid soundtrack. Will Elliot, her support for this show, was voted best local songwriter in Tucson this year and will delight you with his uncompromising uniqueness of presence. 8pm
Your Album of the Week: This week I'm all about Marianne Dissard's L'EntreDeux. She sent me an advance copy of the album and it is phenomenal. Come down to the show and get your own copy...maybe she'll even sign it.
Today I discovered that cream is great on a blackberry snowcone, that nothing really beats a summer sunset, and that Louisiana was an independent nation from 1861 to 1862 (or so they claim).
In Arizona, you'll be happy to know the Raven is moving ever closer to opening the rooftop deck. Labor Day Weekend? Could be...Stay tuned as the date nears.
Monday: Pizza, Pitcher and a Picture night continues with "The Fisher King" starring Robin Williams and Jeff Bridges. It's like "Mork and Mindy" meets "The Big Lebowski" with a moral lesson...nanou, namaste...8:30pm
Tuesday: Tony is sharpening knives and opening the secret recipe book...his menu for Tuesday evening:
Apps.
Endive with Crab & Blood Orange Diced Beet & Bleu Cheese Bruschetta Fontina Cheese Skewers wrapped in Prosciutto Flatbread Pizza, Pesto, Pinenuts, Artichoke Hearts, Roasted Red Pepper & Mozzarella
Entrees'
Chicken Roulade -Stuffed with Salami, Spinach, Roasted Red Pepper & Feta -Served with Potato Lyonnaise, Grilled Asparagus & Red Onion Marmalade Beef Tornadoes -Burbon Demi-Glace -Served with Potato Lyonnaise, Grilled Asparagus & Portabello Mushroom Tapenade Southwest Succotash -Roasted Corn & Jalapeno Sauce -Served on Seared Rice Cakes & with Grilled Asp. Salmon Pasta -Orzo Pasta, Salmon, Mint Cream sauce, Pickled Cucumbers Spinach & Quinoa Salad -Roasted Walnuts, Goat Cheese, Red Quinoa, Balsamic Vinegar
Also on Tuesday...Holy! Holy! Holy! markets themselves as traveling gypsy folk bluegrass. They will be joined by Leila Lopez and Courtney Robbins from Tucson. 8pm
Thursday: Michael Krassner and Try Me Bicycle return. Michael Krassner has worked with everyone from Wilco to Sonic Youth and is trying out his new material exclusively at The Raven. Not to be missed. 8pm
Friday: The Adam's Family Jazz Show. Local wonder-youth Nicki and Patrick Adams will showcase their jazz talent with support from Steve Annibale and Carlos B. Jones. 8pm Saturday: From Merced California, El Olio Wolof makes their first appearance at The Raven. This is quintessential dreamy jazz-influenced indie rock. A great band on their way up. 8pm
Sunday: The Groovin' High Jazz Trio plays for brunch. Is there really anything better than Jazz and Brunch on Sunday? 10am
Fact 1: There are 18 different animal shapes in the Animal Crackers cookie zoo. Fact 2: The names of Popeye’s four nephews are Pipeye, Peepeye, Pupeye and Poopeye. Fact 3: The Raven Café has a lot of great things happening this week. Coincidence? Maybe, but however you slice the pie you’ve still learned three important facts to carry with you until next Sunday.
This Week:
Monday: Pizza, Pitcher and a Picture night continues. This month’s theme is Terry Gilliam, and tonight’s feature is his most acclaimed expression of insane genius…”Brazil.”8:30pm
Tuesday: Tony is in the kitchen for a French Themed Menu:
(Except for the salad & the Herbed Shroom, all dishes will be served with Boursin Mashed Potatoes & Haricot Verts (Green Beans))
Thursday: We’ve been getting so much great feedback about our monthly Jazz Jam Session . We’re excited to provide this opportunity for Jazz players of all ages to come together for a big night of music and fun. 8pm
Friday: One of our favorite bands from Phoenix has to be Farewell Review . They’ve asked if we could provide the venue for their cd release party, and we couldn’t be more honored. The album is produced by Jon Rauhouse, and they are every bit deserving of his attention and yours. You’ll be moved to dance…Imagine Tom Petty fronting Crazy Horse with a little Hank Williams-style harmony. 8pm
Saturday: Dennis Garvey and Remedy return for an evening of grooving to the blues. 8pm
Sunday: Don’t forget about Brunch…it’s the most important meal of the week…Jonathon Best will be on the Old Upright Piano.
Your Album of the Week:Tony Joe White “Black and White” … I can’t stress how important this album is to your collection. It’s what good swamp music sounds like.
This week I learned about aggressive flying cockroaches...Turns out they live in my neighborhood too. تFirst rule of thumb: تDon't run. ت
For now, I've taken shelter in a secure facility...still connected to the outside world through the miracle of the internet...and filling you in on all you have to look forward to this week.
Monday: تIt's "Mystery Movie Monday"...with a great selection of personal pizzas and draft pitchers. تFun starts at 8:30pm
Chef Cody will be back in for Chef Tony this Tuesday. ت
His menu:ت
Entrees:
Lamb- Bone in Lamb Medallions served with a Mint/Basil Pesto, Bamboo Rice, andVeggies.
Ahi Tuna - Coriander Crusted Ahi under local/organic greens and served with Asparagus, Wasabi Creme, and Bamboo Rice
Snapper- Princess Snapper served with a olive/mint tapenade, Bamboo Rice, and Veggies
Scallops- Served in a pool of citrus sauce and layered with asparagus puree
Arugula Salad - Spinach/Arugula, Roasted Pine Nuts, Parmesan Cheese, Lemon Vinaigrette, Cherry Tomatoes, and Avocados
Apps:
Brie/Potatoe Dumplings - Served with Strawberry Jam
Spicy Cucumber Boats - Cucumber boats stuffed with Spicy Red Quinoa and topped with Chipotle Creme
Thursday:
Benefit for Darfur:
When: Thursday, July 10, 6:00 dinner, 7:00 Music by Jonathan Best
Honored Guests: Lost Boys of Sudan
What: This is a benefit to support Drumbeat for Darfur, the Arizona Lost Boys Center and World Children's Relielf, a Prescott-based organization partnering with countries in Africa to build schools and hope. Come early for dinner and conversation with our honored guests. Stay to enjoy the music and fun.
Where: The Raven Café (142 N. Cortez)
Please note: Raven Cafeis creating a great selection of African-inspired foods and contributing a portion of all food and beverage proceeds to the benefit. The music will start around 7, but come earlier if you want a quieter setting for dinner and conversation with the Lost Boys (though both will be available throughout the evening).
Jonathan Best and other local musicians will be featured entertainment. Maria Flurry will join in with some lively percussion and the Lost Boys are going to show us some of their drumming styles. If you have drums,tambourines, maracas or other rhythm instruments, bring them along. And, with all that drumming, you can be sure there will be dancing.
This is not an evening for speeches. Instead you can expect a celebration of hope: good food, great people, lots of rhythm, raffles and, of course,displays and print material to connect to the humanitarian crisis that persists in Darfur.
All proceeds from this benefit will be divided among three groups: UUSC's Drumbeat for Darfur project, the Arizona Lost Boys Center and World Children's Relief.
Friday:Patrick Sweany is back. Patrick's new album was produced by the Black Keys, and perhaps unsurprisingly he sounds a lot like the Black Keys. If you missed his last swing through the Raven, you missed an amazing show. You should definitely see this if you are a fan of The White Stripes, RL Burnside, TheBlack Keys, Junior Kimbrough or John Lee Hooker. 8pm
Saturday: Jonathon Best is performing another of his amazing solo looping shows. It's like Young Einstein meets The Beatles in the back of Michael J Fox's Delorean. 8pm
This is something new we've got going on, so I wanted it to have its own e-mail. We're excited about "Art Bar" at the Raven Cafe, and our new art manager, Travis Patterson, who is putting all of this together. If you know anyone else who might be interested in this project, or any artists who should be a part, please forward this e-mail to them.
Thanks
Raven
Art Bar
Art Bar is a new initiative at The Raven Café that aims to display the production of artwork as an art form in itself. We believe that seeing an artist’s intensity and process leads to a more intimate connection with his or her product. In full support of our mission statement, Art Bar is yet another way in which our artists continually make our customers question the meaning of art and how itis done.
Tables are now positioned outside of our wine room for our patrons to sit and enjoy their meal or beverages while absorbing the bold impact that Art Bar is already having at our space. We encourage dialogue between our clientele and these energetic artists, as they are continually available to speak about their products and their work flow.
We are currently seeking artists of all mediums interested in creating in this space free of charge while gaining valuable publicity and wall space at The Raven Café. Finished pieces will be available for sale and may even be sold while in production. Artists are open to negotiations and our friendly bar staff will be happy to facilitate the transaction. Works not sold during production are professionally presented and exhibited at The Raven Café.
For more information, please contact our Art Coordinator, Travis Patterson, at travis@ravencafe.com. We look forward to hearing from you!
