ATLRetro

Monday, July 8

The Plaza Theatre switches from Sean Connery to Roger Moore as its 50 Years of Bond monthlong series continues with LIVE AND LET DIE (1973) on the big screen at 7:30 p.m. Jazz it up with Bumpin the Mango at Café 290 every second and fourth Monday of the month. Northside Tavern hosts its weekly Blues Jam featuring blues and southern soul singer Lola Gulley. Enjoy your BBQ with a side of Pead Boy & the Pork Bellies at Fat Matt’s Rib Shack.

Tuesday, July 9

Pokey LaFarge brings his creative mix of early jazz, string ragtime, country blues and western swing to Eddie’s Attic. Mutant Cannibals crawl out from underground to devour humans on the streets of New York in C.H.U.D. (1984), this month’s Splatter Cinema feature at The Plaza Theatre at 9:30 p.m. (gory photo op at 9 p.m.). The Plaza also continues its 50 Years of Bond monthlong series with Roger Moore, Christopher Lee and Herve Villechaize in THE MAN WITH THE GOLDEN GUN (1974) on the big screen at 7:30 p.m. Georgia Railroad bring their kickass blues/roots/Americana sounds to Steve’s Live Music. Disaster epic THE POSEIDON ADVENTURE (1972) sinks into Northlake Festival Movie Tavern,  as the June retro cinema classic series of Classic Summer Blockbusters continues! Learn to swing dance or show off your moves at Gatsby’s Weekly Swing Dance Night w/ DJ Alan White; doors at 6 p.m./lessons start at 8 p.m. Kool Kat Calu Cordeira mixes tiki libations during Mai Tai Tahitian Tuesday starting at 9 p.m. at the Dark Horse Tavern. Grab your horn and head over to Twain’s in Decatur for a Joe Gransden jazz jam session. Blues it down with Nathan Nelson & Entertainment Crackers at Northside Tavern. J.T. Speed brings the blues to Fat Matt’s Rib Shack. Steve’s Live Music in Sandy Springs hosts a weekly Bluegrass & Hootenanny Jam led by Jason Koornick & Hank Weisman. Ursula Undress teaches Beginner’s Burlesque at Studio Burlesque at 8:30 p.m

Wednesday, July 10

A dyn-mite time is a sure thing at tonight’s all-star soulful return to the ’70s at Chastain Park Amphitheatre with The Sylistics, The Manhattans, Heatwave, Harold Melvin’s Blue Notes, Peaches and Herb, Main Ingredient featuring Cuba Gooding, Sr. and hosted by Jimmie “JJ” Walker. The Plaza Theatre continues its 50 Years of Bond monthlong series with the best Roger Moore Bond and one of the best of the entire series, THE SPY WHO LOVED ME (1977) on the big screen at 7:30 p.m. Get schooled by two of Atlanta’s burlesque finest, last week’s Kool Kat Katherine Lashe or Talloolah Love in Beginning Burlesque classes at Studio Burlesque. Old enough to feel Retro? It’s Ladies Night at Johnny’s Hideaway which plays hits from Sinatra to Madonna for a generally mature crowd. Danny “Mudcat” Dudeck brings the Piedmont blues to Northside Tavern, and The Hollidays deliver some soul to Fat Matt’s Rib Shack. Greet the day  with an 11:30 a.m. matinee  of THE POSEIDON ADVENTURE (1972) at  Northlake Festival Movie Tavern’s Retro Cinema series this week!

Thursday, July 11

Experience Honkytonk Heaven as Dale Watson headlines with Caroline & the Ramblers and Grim Rooster at Smith’s Olde Bar. If you missed our Kool Kat interviews with Caroline Hull Engel and Phil Stair (Grim Rooster), catch up here and here. New Orleans’ The Iguanas define a sound of Americana that crosses cultures, styles, eras… and even languages at The Earl, with Grinder Nova opening. The Plaza Theatre continues its 50 Years of Bond monthlong series with Roger Moore, Jaws (Richard Kiel) and outer space action in MOONRAKER (1979) on the big screen at 7:30 p.m. Relax with a cocktail while listening to the groovy sounds of Andrew and the Disapyramids, featuring Kool Kat Joshua Longino, at vintage tiki bar, Trader Vic’s. Ghost Riders Car Club, featuring Kool Kat Spike Fullerton, throws a Bastille Day Pre-Party at the Clermont Lounge. As they put it so eloquently: “celebrate the French figuring it out 14 years and 10 days after we did. Plus boobies and country music!” Go to Northside Tavern to hear the classic 50s Chicago-style blues of The Breeze Kings. Get on over to Fat Matt’s Rib Shack to hear the honkytonkin’ blues of  Chickenshack. It’s a special patriotic 80s/90s Retro Video Night with free drinks ’til 10 at The Shelter.  Red Light Cafe‘s weekly Bluegrass Thursday features Waller and Caroline Spence.  Studio Burlesque offers a class in Beginning Burlesque with Ursula Undress at 6:30 p.m. And it’s your last chance to experience disaster epic THE POSEIDON ADVENTURE (1972) at Northlake Festival Movie Tavern!

Julea Thomerson. Photo credit: Maggie Speck.

Friday July 12

Psychedelic junkyard folk, honky tonkin’ rockabilly twang. Americana blues roots. Throw in a few kitchen sinks and that should about describe Rolling Nowhere with Julea & Her Dear Johns, featuring Kool Kat Julea Thomerson, and Nathan Nelson at Red Light Cafe. Blair Crimmins & the Hookers bring their ’20s ragtime-inspired sounds to The Earl for the first of a two-night gig. If you missed Blair’s Kool Kat interview, catch up here. The Shelter goes Retro luau with Ritual’s Ho’okola Tiki Party. 529 presents two tribute bands One Will Burn (Joy Division) and Cherry Bomb (Joan Jett), as well as punk from the Cadillac Junkies. The Plaza Theatre continues its 50 Years of Bond monthlong series with Roger Moore in FOR YOUR EYES ONLY (1981) at 7:30 p.m. Derryl Rivers and the Flying Circus perform blues, jazz and a slight bit of funk under the dinosaurs at Fernbank Museum of Natural History’s Martinis and IMAX. Atlanta Boogie delievers the blues at Fat Matt’s Rib Shack. Swami Gone Bananas brings the blues to Northside Tavern and Blind Willie’s serves up Burnt Bacon. Do the Time Warp again at THE ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW with full costumed floor show by Lips Down on Dixie every Friday at midnight at The Plaza Theatre.

Blair Crimmins.

Saturday, July 13

Paris on Ponce and POP Marche present the first of two days of their free annual Bastille Day Festival from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. featuring Pop-Up shops, Dawsonville Moonshine, King of Pops, frozen pints, bake rattle & roll, cocktails from Green’s, roaming musicians, raffle tickets, stiltwalker Adam Lowe, and a 2 p.m. French Bulldog & Pug Costume Contest. Read more about the magic of Paris on Ponce in last year’s interview with Kool Kat Nicolette Valdespino. Blair Crimmins & the Hookers bring their ’20s ragtime-inspired sounds to The Earl for a second night with The Banditos. If you missed Blair’s Kool Kat interview, catch up here. The Steve Miller Band rocks Turner Field with Back City Woods. Keep feelin’ Fascination as the Artifice Club‘s electro-swing party presents the Fascination Teaser Show at Gatsby’s, Atlanta’s 1920s night club, with burlesque by Talloolah Love. The Plaza Theatre continues its 50 Years of Bond monthlong series as with a matinee encore of DR. NO (1962) at 2:30 p.m. and Roger Moore in OCTOPUSSY (1983) at 7:30 p.m.. Be sure to check out our Retro Review to see why this Bond may be the best!  Ike Stubblefield brings the piano blues to Northside Tavern, and Burnt Bacon greases up the blues at Blind Willie’s. Jumpin Jukes shake up the blues at Fat Matt’s Rib Shack. The Cosmic West swings into Big Tex. And as always, DJ Romeo Cologne transforms the sensationally seedy Clermont Lounge into a ’70s disco/funk inferno late into the wee hours of the night.

Photo courtesy of Chad Sanborn.

Sunday, July 14

Paris on Ponce and POP Marche present the grand finale of their free annual Bastille Day Festival from 12:30 to 9:30 p.m. with all the same fun as the day before, plus All Hands Productions puppet show of JACK AND THE BEANSTALK at 2 p.m. and French films from Atlanta Film Festival starting at 3 p.m. Then the Big Show starts at 7 p.m. with the magic of Kool Kat Chad Sanborn, Baton Bob, Thimblerig Circus and super-special surprise guest stars! Read more about the magic of Paris on Ponce in last year’s interview with Kool Kat Nicolette Valdespino. The Earl Smith Strand Theatre brings THE MOTOWN SOUND back to Marietta for the third year of the most successful Strand-produced show ever featuring  stunning dance, brilliant costumes and knockout R&B classics by artists like Marvin Gaye, The Temptations, Jackson 5 and The Supremes. Cedar Hill serves up a honkytonk brunch at Big Tex starting at noon. Help Blast-Off Burlesque raise a few bucks and go home with delicious sweets at their Blast off Bastille Day Bake Sale at the Euclid Avenue Yacht Club from 2 to 6 p.m. The Plaza Theatre continues its 50 Years of Bond monthlong series as Sean Connery returns for his last official mission as 007 in DIAMONDS ARE FOREVER (1971) at 2:30 p.m. and again in his last unofficial mission in NEVER SAY NEVER AGAIN (1983) at 7:30 p.m. Jez Graham Trio jazzes up The Family Dog with Gina Grate. Cineprov  pokes fun at Roger Corman cult classic DEATH RACE 2000 (1975) at The Plaza Theater. Fatback Deluxe bring on the blues 40s-60s style at Fatt Matt’s Rib Shack. Sample a spoonful of blues courtesy of Uncle Sugar at Northside Tavern. Cowboy Envy lassos up some country-western at Eddie’s Attic.

Ongoing

Johannes Vermeer’s GIRL WITH A PEARL EARRING visits The High Museum of Art, along with other Dutch masterpieces, through Sept. 29.

EXTREME MAMMALS from sabertooth tiger skulls and wooly mammoth fur to contemporary creatures such as the duck-billed platypus invade Fernbank Museum of Natural History through August 18.

Monday, July 1

The Plaza Theatre launches its 50 Years of Bond monthlong series with Sean Connery in DR. NO (1962). Swing back to the golden age of jazz at Café 290 every first and third Monday of the month for Big Band Night with Joe Gransden and his amazing 16-piece orchestra. Northside Tavern hosts its weekly Blues Jam featuring blues and southern soul singer Lola Gulley. Enjoy your BBQ with a side of Pead Boy & the Pork Bellies at Fat Matt’s Rib Shack.

Tuesday, July 2

The Plaza Theatre continues its 50 Years of Bond monthlong series with Sean Connery in FROM RUSSIA WITH LOVE (1963). Hey Kittens! New Orleans Jon is hosting a Ladies Night & Burly Blitz at Atlantic Seafood Co., in Alpharetta. On the menu are $5 sangria, cocktail specials, two ceviche specials and live music by George Martini (6:30-8:30). Cyndi Lauper just wants to have fun, performing every song off her SHE’S SO UNUSUAL (1983) album at Symphony Hall. The Georgia Crackers hillbilly it up ’20s style at Steve’s Live Music. JAWS (1975) swims into Northlake Festival Movie Tavern,  as the June retro cinema classic series of Classic Summer Blockbusters continues! Learn to swing dance or show off your moves at Gatsby’s Weekly Swing Dance Night w/ DJ Alan White; doors at 6 p.m./lessons start at 8 p.m. Kool Kat Calu Cordeira mixes tiki libations during Mai Tai Tahitian Tuesday starting at 9 p.m. at the Dark Horse Tavern. Grab your horn and head over to Twain’s in Decatur for a Joe Gransden jazz jam session. Blues it down with Nathan Nelson & Entertainment Crackers at Northside Tavern. J.T. Speed brings the blues to Fat Matt’s Rib Shack. Steve’s Live Music in Sandy Springs hosts a weekly Bluegrass & Hootenanny Jam led by Jason Koornick & Hank Weisman. Ursula Undress teaches Beginner’s Burlesque at Studio Burlesque at 8:30 p.m

Wednesday, July 3

The Plaza Theatre continues its 50 Years of Bond monthlong series with Sean Connery in GOLDFINGER (1964). Black Juju channels Alice Cooper Shane Morton-style with The Pinups and the Southeast’s premiere Doors tribute band  When You’re Strange at Smith’s Olde Bar. Get schooled by two of Atlanta’s burlesque finest, last week’s Kool Kat Katherine Lashe or Talloolah Love in Beginning Burlesque classes at Studio Burlesque. Old enough to feel Retro? It’s Ladies Night at Johnny’s Hideaway which plays hits from Sinatra to Madonna for a generally mature crowd. Danny “Mudcat” Dudeck brings the Piedmont blues to Northside Tavern, and The Hollidays deliver some soul to Fat Matt’s Rib Shack. Greet the day  with an 11:30 a.m. matinee  of JAWS (1975) at  Northlake Festival Movie Tavern’s Retro Cinema series this week!

Tongo Hiti.

Thursday, July 4, Independence Day

Nothing’s more Retro than fireworks, right?! See them explode at Lenox Square, Centennial Olympic Park, Six Flags Over Georgia, Stone Mountain Park Lasershow, Mall of Georgia, Decatur Courthouse Square and more. Fireworks may be exploding across Atlanta, but The Plaza Theatre continues its 50 Years of Bond monthlong series with Sean Connery in the explosive THUNDERBALL (1964). Relax with a cocktail while listening to the groovy island sounds of Tongo Hiti, featuring Big Mike Geier, the lovely Dames Aflame Hula brigade at vintage tiki bar, Trader Vic’s. Go to Northside Tavern to hear the classic 50s Chicago-style blues of The Breeze Kings. Get on over to Fat Matt’s Rib Shack to hear the honkytonkin’ blues of  Chickenshack. It’s a special patriotic 80s/90s Retro Video Night with free drinks ’til 10 at The Shelter.  Red Light Cafe‘s weekly Bluegrass Thursday takes the week off.  Studio Burlesque is closed July 4-7, but Beginning Burlesque with Ursula Undress resumes Thursday July 11 at 6:30 p.m. And it’s your last chance to freak out to JAWS (1975) at Northlake Festival Movie Tavern!

Friday, July 5

The Fireworks may be over but Monstrosity Championship Wrestling is back at The Famous Pub culminating in a Great American Monster Mash battle royal to determine the number one contender to Phantom’s MCW Championship. The festivities also include a live performance by the Casket Creatures, celebrating the release of their new CD, SEX, BLOOD AND ROCK N ROLL. Be sure to read our Kool Kat of the Week interview with the Casket Creatures. The Plaza Theatre continues its 50 Years of Bond monthlong series with Sean Connery in YOU ONLY LIVE TWICE (1967). Delta Moon brings blues, rock and roots to an early 7:30 show at Eddie’s Attic, followed by funk and soul from Mike Hicks and Jason Eskridge at 10. During Matthew Kaminski’s Latin Boogaloo, the Atlanta Braves‘ organist fuses the worlds of salsa, funk, R&B, and jazz to get you groovin’ under the dinosaurs at Fernbank Museum of Natural History’s Martinis and IMAX. John Sosebee delivers down and dirty juke joint blues at Fat Matt’s Rib Shack. Lola Gulley brings the blues and Southern soul to Northside Tavern and Empress of the Blues Sandra Hall makes you bow down to the blues at Blind Willie’s.

Saturday, July 6

Live your life Stranger Than Fiction at the latest solo art opening of monsterific skateboard and punk rock art by Urbnpop’s Chris Hamer, one certified Kool Kat well known also for his eclectic comics work, at Rev Coffee in Smyrna. There’ll also be punk rock by Rob Huddleston (Ann Beretta/Foundation). The Plaza Theatre continues its 50 Years of Bond monthlong series as Agent 007 George Lazenby marries the gorgeous Diana Rigg in ON HER MAJESTY’S SECRET SERVICE (1969). Be sure to check out our Retro Review to see why this Bond may be the best!  Annie Selleck & The Hot Club of Nashville gypsy-jazz up Eddie’s Attic. Beverly “Guitar” Watkinsbrings the blues to Northside Tavern, and Luther “Houserocker” Johnson & The Shadows fire up the blues at Blind Willie’s. The Tone Prophets preach the blues at Fat Matt’s Rib Shack. Frank Barham swings into Big Tex. And as always, DJ Romeo Cologne transforms the sensationally seedy Clermont Lounge into a ’70s disco/funk inferno late into the wee hours of the night.

Sunday, July 7

Whether you like to get your super-hero on or check out the newest indies, the Atlanta Comic Convention is a swell way to spend a Sunday. Guests include some of Atlanta’s finest pop artists such as Urbnpop’s Chris Hamer and Jason Flowers, as well as actor Daniel Thomas May (Allen, THE WALKING DEAD); from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Marriott Hotel-Century Center. DBA serves up a honktonk brunch at Big Tex starting at noon. Tag Team shakes up The Earl‘s anniversary dunch starting at 1 p.m. The Plaza Theatre continues its 50 Years of Bond monthlong series as Sean Connery returns for his last mission as 007 in DIAMONDS ARE FOREVER (1971). Jez Graham Trio jazzes up The Family Dog with Gwen Hughes. Cineprov  pokes fun at a to-be-determined Retro classic movie also at The Plaza Theater. Fatback Deluxe bring on the blues 40s-60s style at Fatt Matt’s  Rib Shack. Sample a spoonful of blues courtesy of Uncle Sugar at Northside Tavern.  

Ongoing

Johannes Vermeer’s GIRL WITH A PEARL EARRING visits The High Museum of Art, along with other Dutch masterpieces, through Sept. 29.

EXTREME MAMMALS from sabertooth tiger skulls and wooly mammoth fur to contemporary creatures such as the duck-billed platypus invade Fernbank Museum of Natural History through August 18.

Learn about  a different side to the third American president and Constitution author in the Really Retro special exhibition Slavery at Jefferson’s Monticello: How the Word is Passed Down at the Atlanta History Center through July 7.

Every Tuesday night, Wednesday morning and Thursday night is Retro Cinema at Movie Tavern.

Monday, April 22

Snarky Puppy, a Dallas and New York-based collective, bring their unique fusion  of jazz, funk and world music to The Earl  for a two-night run starting tonight.  The Basement gets all shook up by The King Khan & BBQ Show with special guests The Delusionaires. Northside Tavern hosts its weekly Blues Jam featuring blues and southern soul singer, Lola Gulley. Enjoy BBQ and Dry White Toast at Fat Matt’s Rib Shack.

Tuesday, April 23

The Black Crowes rock The Tabernacle. English symphonic rock band Renaissance rose from the ashes of the seminal UK rock group The Yardbirds; catch their blend of classical and rock at Variety Playhouse. If you find yourself in the mood for a little Broadway, come to SISTER ACT, based on the ‘90s cult film starring Whoopi Goldberg, which opens tonight and runs all through Sunday at the Fox Theatre. The Emory University Big Band jazzes up the university’s Schwartz Center for Performing Arts. Fabulous ’50s month continues with John Wayne in Howard Hawk‘s RIO BRAVO (1959), this week’s retro cinema classic at Northlake Festival Movie Tavern. Kool Kat Calu Cordeira mixes tiki libations at Mai Tai Tahitian Tuesday starting at 9 p.m. at the Dark Horse Tavern. Grab your horn and head over to Twain’s in Decatur for a Joe Gransden jazz jam session starting at 9 p.m., or you can blues it down with Nathan Nelson & Entertainment Crackers at Northside Tavern. Head over to Fat Matt’s Rib Shack for some old school R & B, rock ‘n roll and blues with JT Speed.

Wednesday, April 24

Don’t save it for later; see quintessential ’80s pop ska band The English Beat at The Loft. LA Times Buzz Band, 8MM is like the glamorous, neo-noir love-child of David Lynch, Portishead and Aimee Mann, and they’re bringing their unique sound to the Shelter. Enjoy the ethereal gothic sounds of The Ghosts Project, featuring Paul Mercer and Davis Petterson of The Changelings, at Drunken Unicorn. Get a second night of the Duke, John Wayne in Howard Hawk‘s RIO BRAVO (1959) at Northlake Festival Movie Tavern. Old enough to feel Retro? It’s Ladies Night at Johnny’s Hideaway which plays hits from Sinatra to Madonna for a generally mature crowd. Get ready to rumba, cha-cha and jitterbug at the weekly Swing Night at Graveyard Tavern. Danny “Mudcat” Dudeck brings the Piedmont blues to Northside Tavern. The Hollidays bring a little soul to Fat Matt’s Rib Shack.

Thursday, April 25

Comrade Blue, who count the Beatles, Replacements and Pixies among their influences, play Vinyl tonight with The Pollies. Every Thursday in April is an Oakhurst Jazz Night when you can picnic on the lawn in front of The Solarium while listening to live free jazz music from some of the best artists in the Southeast. This week it’s ATLRetro favorite Bonaventure Quartet. All concerts begin at 7 pm and end at 9 pm and are free and open to the public. The rain location is inside The Solarium. It’s 80s/90s Video Night with free drinks ’til 10 at The Shelter. Relax with a cocktail while listening to Tongo Hiti playing Retro-Polynesian luxurious live lounge sounds, as well as trippy takes on iconic pop songs, at vintage tiki bar, Trader Vic’s, every Thursday night. Go to Northside Tavern to hear the classic 50s Chicago-style blues of The Breeze Kings. Get on over to Fat Matt’s Rib Shack to hear the honkytonkin’ blues of Chickenshack. The Fiddleheads come down from Dahlonega to provide the strumming at Red Light Cafe‘s weekly Bluegrass Thursday.  Tommy Dean Trio honkytonks it down at Big Tex in Decatur. Howard Hawk‘s RIO BRAVO (1959), starring John Wayne, plays a final night at Northlake Festival Movie Tavern.

Friday, April 26

The Inman Park Festival kicks off today with a Tour of Homes Preview, providing a sneak peek behind the doors of homes in the Victorian neighborhood, from noon to 4 p.m.  The Queers and The Dwarves make it a classic punk rock night at the Star Bar. Celebrate ’70s light rock with The Yacht Rock Revue Spring Spectacular at Variety Playhouse. Read an ATLRetro interview with Yacht Rock Revue here.  Abby Wren and What It Is serve up some good old soulful southern-fried funk under the dinosaurs at Fernbank Museum of Natural History’s Martinis and IMAX. Beverly T. “Guitar” Watson plays the blues at Fat Matt’s Rib Shack. Danny “Mudcat” Dudeck brings the Piedmont blues to Northside Tavern both Friday and Saturday night.

Tongo Hiti.

Saturday, April 27

The Inman Park Festival shows why it’s Atlanta’s most creative street festival from a bodacious artist and vendors market  to a one-of-a-kind parade that redefines quirky at 2 p.m. The Tour of Homes continues and plenty of live music, too, with today’s Retro highlights including Polynesian fusion/swing band Tongo Hiti at 4:15 p.m., the Western honkytonk charms of Cowboy Envy at 4:45 p.m., jam-meister and beloved Atlanta musician Col Bruce Hampton & Friends at 5:30 p.m. Suicidal Tendencies are still thrashing and make it a punk night at The Masquerade. The Psycho-Devilles, featuring Kool Kat Hot Rod Walt, bring their sizzling rockabilly sound (and maybe even set a guitar on fire) to Dixie Tavern in Marietta. They’ll even be filming a “Sizzle Reel” during this show to pitch for a new reality TV show called KUSTOM CULTURE ATLANTA, including a Pinup Girl contest. Bring your vintage cars and bikes. Cigar Store Indians swing into Smith’s Olde Bar. Seventies mellow master Barry Manilow waxes melodic at the Gwinnett Arena. Ralph Roddenberry makes it a righteous roots/Americana night at Big Tex.  J.P. Blues bring some hot and heavy blues to Fat Matt’s Rib Shack. The Basement throws a rock and soul dance party. As usual, DJ Romeo Cologne transforms the sensationally seedy Clermont Lounge into a ’70s disco/funk inferno late into the wee hours of the night

Dick Dale.

The Inman Park Festival serves up a final day of fun, including Atlanta new wave dynamos, the Swimming Pool Q’s at 3:30 p.m. and hot blues mama Sandra Hall at 6 p.m. Feeling in the mood for 20s ragtime? Dick Dale, the King of the Surf Guitar, shakes up The Earl with El Capitain and the Band with No Name. If you missed ATLRetro’s exclusive interview with this music legend and ultimate survivor, catch up here. Blair Crimmins and the Hookers resurrects ’20s ragtime at Park Tavern as this week’s band in the free Unplugged in the Park series. Catch up with our Kool Kat interview with Blair here. Blues great Francine Reed and The Trio jazz up The Family Dog. Check out some down and dirty Fatback Deluxe blues at Fatt Matt’s Rib Shack. FLESH GORDON is back from one more night at Plaza Theatre getting the Cineprov! treatment – probably the best way to see it. Read our Retro Review here.

Ongoing

Go back to the early 1900s with RAGTIME, based on the bestselling E.L. Doctorow novel and performed by Atlanta Lyric Theatre, through April 28 at the art deco Earl Smith Strand Theatre in Marietta.

Frida Kahlo. Photo credit: Nickolas Muray

Make a date with FRIDA AND DIEGO: PASSION, POLITICS AND PAINTING, a blockbuster special exhibition showcasing the works of one of art’s most famous couples, at The High Museum of Art through May 12.

EXTREME MAMMALS from sabertooth tiger skulls and wooly mammoth fur to contemporary creatures such as the duck-billed platypus invade Fernbank Museum of Natural History through August 18.

Learn about  a different side to the third American president and Constitution author in the Really Retro special exhibition Slavery at Jefferson’s Monticello: How the Word is Passed Down at the Atlanta History Center through July 7.

Every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday night is Retro Cinema at Movie Tavern. Check out classic movies on the big screen weekly at 7:30 p.m.

Monday, Feb. 25

Northside Tavern hosts its weekly Blues Jam featuring blues and southern soul singer, Lola Gulley. Enjoy BBQ and Dry White Toast at Fat Matt’s Rib Shack.

Tuesday, Feb. 26

Collective Soul‘s Ed Roland and The Sweet Tea Project with Special Guests Kevn Kinney (Drivin n Cryin) and Davin McCoy make it an all-star night at Eddie’s Attic. Alfred Hitchcock suspense classic TO CATCH A THIEF (1955), starring Cary Grant and Grace Kelly, is this week’s retro cinema classic  at Northlake Festival Movie Tavern. Kool Kat Calu Cordeira mixes tiki libations at Mai Tai Tahitian Tuesday starting at 9 p.m. at the Dark Horse Tavern. Grab your horn and head over to Twain’s in Decatur for a Joe Gransden jazz jam session starting at 9 p.m., or you can blues it down with Nathan Nelson & Entertainment Crackers at Northside Tavern. Head over to Fat Matt’s Rib Shack for some old school R & B, rock ‘n roll and blues with Crosstown Allstars.

Wednesday, Feb. 27

Singer-songwriter Karla Bonoff is at Eddie’s Attic. TO CATCH A THIEF (1955) plays a second night at Northlake Festival Movie Tavern. Old enough to feel Retro? It’s Ladies Night at Johnny’s Hideaway which plays hits from Sinatra to Madonna for a generally mature crowd, though we hear some of Atlanta’s burlesque beauties are making a Cougar Crawl to jazz things up this week. Get ready to rumba, cha-cha and jitterbug at the weekly Swing Night at Graveyard Tavern. Danny “Mudcat” Dudeck brings the gospel blues to Northside Tavern. Frankie’s Blues Mission blues it down at Fat Matt’s Rib Shack.

Thursday, Feb. 28

Big Mike is back with Tongo Hiti all month at vintage tiki bar, Trader Vic’s, where you can relax with a cocktail while listening to Retro-Polynesian luxurious live lounge sounds, as well as trippy takes on iconic pop songs, every Thursday night. Disco in the Village at Mary’s is your midweek neighborhood dance party, now on Thursdays.  Go to Northside Tavern to hear the classic 50s Chicago-style blues of The Breeze Kings. Get on over to Fat Matt’s Rib Shack to hear Chickenshack. Alfred Hitchcock suspense classic TO CATCH A THIEF (1955), starring Cary Grant and Grace Kelly, plays a final night at Northlake Festival Movie Tavern.

Friday, March 1

We can’t wait to celebrate the second anniversary of our BFF blog Wrestling with Pop Culture with the most exciting Monstrosity Championship Wrestling bout yet, crowning its first champion and featuring Metal Gaga performing heavy metal versions of Lady Gaga hits, all for a $10 cover at Famous Pub in Toco Hills. Get your steampunk on at Artifice Nights at XS Ultra Lounge with the eclectic rhythms of The Nathaniel Johnstone Band and zany vaudeville banjo-driven rock ‘n’ roll by Curtis Eller’s American Circus.Aku You bring back old-school late 70s/early 80s synth withe a contemporary twist at The Earl with White Gregg and Sharps. Ken Stringfellow of ’80s power-pop band The Posies rocks The Star Bar with special guests Kenny Howe and Blake Rainey & His Demons. One-of-a-kind Atlanta musician Col. Bruce Hampton plays Smith’s Olde Bar with special guests Lew Soloff and Johnny Knapp. Film Love presents ZOOM, a program of short classics of avant garde cinematography, Michael Snow‘s WAVELENGTH (1967) and Ernie Gehr‘s SERENE VELOCITY (1970) and MORNING (1968) at Atlanta Contemporaey Art Center. Catch up on our Kool Kat interview with Film Love founder Andy Ditzler here. Bonaventure Quartet, featuring Amy Pike, jazzes things up under the dinosaurs at Fernbank Museum of Natural History’s Martinis and IMAX. Head to Northside Tavern to hear Danny “Mudcat” Dudeck bring you the gospel blues.

Rod Hamdallah

Saturday, March 2

It’s a Kool Kat Star Bar double header with Rod Hamdallah and Caroline and the Ramblers with Chickens & Pigs also on the marquee. Americana music pioneers Buddy Miller and Jim Lauderdale play Variety Playhouse. Get your glam and glitter on at Pandemonium II, at The Shelter featuring four djs spinning classic glam to bleeding edge rock’n’roll. Kool Kat Nicolette Emmanuelle plays a live set starting at approx. 9:30 pm, so come early and stay late. The Hollidays brings some soul to The Family Dog. As usual, DJ Romeo Cologne transforms the sensationally seedy Clermont Lounge into a ’70s disco/funk inferno late into the wee hours of the night. Nat George & the Nat George Players bring a blend of R&B, jazz and gospel to Sweet Georgia’s Juke Joint.

Sunday, March 3

Spend your Sunday afternoon with Professor Morte himself, Shane Morton, and learn old-school Monster Make-Up Class from the master to scare the yell out of everyone you know. $150 fee includes professional make-up kit, and open to anyone age 15 and over. Bonaventure Quartet jazz up dunch starting at 1 p.m. at The Earl. Francine Reed and The Trio jazz up The Family Dog. Cowboy Envy  bring Western swing/Americana/roots to Eddie’s Attic. Join Uncle Sugar at Northside Tavern to wrap up your weekend or check out the blues at Fatt Matt’s Rib Shack with Tony Bryant.

Ongoing

The Plaza Theatre continues on a week-long run of cult classics, FLESH GORDON (1974) through Friday March 1. Read our Retro Review here.

Make a date with FRIDA AND DIEGO: PASSION, POLITICS AND PAINTING, a blockbuster special exhibition showcasing the works of one of art’s most famous couples, at The High Museum of Art through May 12.

Atlanta Lyric Theatre takes you back to the heyday of girl groups such as The Chiffons, The Supremes, Tina Turner and Aretha Franklin in high-energy musical revue BEEHIVE at the vintage Earl Smith Strand Theatre in Marietta.  Through March 3.

Learn about  a different side to the third American president and Constitution author in the Really Retro special exhibition Slavery at Jefferson’s Monticello: How the Word is Passed Down at the Atlanta History Center through July 7.

Every Tuesday and Thursday night is Retro Cinema at Movie Tavern. Check out classic movies on the big screen weekly at 7:30 p.m.

Monday, Feb. 11

Northside Tavern hosts its weekly Blues Jam featuring blues and southern soul singer, Lola Gulley. Enjoy BBQ and Dry White Toast at Fat Matt’s Rib Shack.

Tuesday, Feb. 12

Don’t have a Valentine? Splatter Cinema shows you how to make one with a special screening at 9:30 p.m. of FRANKENHOOKER (1990) directed by BASKET CASE’s notorious Frank Henenlotter, at the Plaza Theatre. In addition to the usual pre-movie photo shoot, catch a special interview with star Patty Mullen. Read our Retro Review here. Hilarious Mel Brooks comedy western BLAZING SADDLES (1974) plays a second week as the retro cinema classic  at Northlake Festival Movie Tavern. Kool Kat Calu Cordeira mixes tiki libations at Mai Tai Tahitian Tuesday starting at 9 p.m. at the Dark Horse Tavern. Grab your horn and head over to Twain’s in Decatur for a Joe Gransden jazz jam session starting at 9 p.m., or you can blues it down with Nathan Nelson & Entertainment Crackers at Northside Tavern. Head over to Fat Matt’s Rib Shack for some old school R & B, rock ‘n roll and blues with Crosstown Allstars.

Wednesday, Feb. 13

“I’m wearing black. You’re wearing black. Let’s head to Mary’s in East Atlanta for a Goth Nite: St. Valentine’s Massacre. Get ready to rumba, cha-cha and jitterbug at the weekly Swing Night at Graveyard Tavern. Danny “Mudcat” Dudeck brings the gospel blues to Northside Tavern. Frankie’s Blues Mission blues it down at Fat Matt’s Rib Shack.

Melba Moore. Photo credit: James Mitchell.

Valentine’s Day, Thursday, Feb. 14

Make a date with FRIDA AND DIEGO: PASSION, POLITICS AND PAINTING, a blockbuster special exhibition showcasing the works of one of art’s most famous couples, which opens today at The High Museum of Art. Starring Tony Award winning actress and legendary singer Melba Moore, electrifying comedy GOOD GOD A’MIGHTY takes audiences behind-the-scenes look inside an African-American church in the midst of change at the 14th Street Playhouse, starting tonight and running through Feb. 24. Watch out for ATLRetro’s exclusive interview with Melba soon! Ruby Velle Trio brings some soul to The Family Dog. Big Mike is back with Tongo Hiti all month at vintage tiki bar, Trader Vic’s, where you can relax with a cocktail while listening to Retro-Polynesian luxurious live lounge sounds, as well as trippy takes on iconic pop songs, every Thursday night. Disco in the Village at Mary’s is your midweek neighborhood dance party, now on Thursdays.  Go to Northside Tavern to hear the classic 50s Chicago-style blues of The Breeze Kings. Get on over to Fat Matt’s Rib Shack to hear Chickenshack.

Friday, Feb. 15

Burlesque beauties Minette Magnifique shimmy into something more comfortable during the first of two nights of Cupid’s Pajama Party, their Valentine’s Day show at the beautiful Le Maison Rouge at Paris on Ponce. featuring special guest stars Chad Sanborn and Ninja Puppet Theatre. Watch for a sneak preview with Kool Kat of the Week Darcy Lemonnier soon. The Plaza Theatre launches week-long runs of two cult classics, RE-ANIMATOR (1985) and REEFER MADNESS (1936). Make love the Latin way – on the dance floor – when Salsambo Dance Studio throws a Salsa Night under the dinosaurs at Fernbank Museum of Natural History’s Martinis and IMAX. Atlanta Lyric Theatre takes you back to the heyday of girl groups such as The Chiffons, The Supremes, Tina Turner and Aretha Franklin in high-energy musical revue BEEHIVE at the vintage Earl Smith Strand Theatre in Marietta, starting tonight and running through March 3.Head to Northside Tavern to hear Danny “Mudcat” Dudeck bring you the gospel blues.

Saturday, Feb. 16

The Atlanta Rollergirls launch their 2013 season with bouts between the Denim Demons vs Toxic Shocks and Rumble Bs vs Fort Myers, FL, at the Yaarab Shrine Center. Burlesque beauties Minette Magnifique shimmy into something more comfortable during the second of two nights of Cupid’s Pajama Party, their Valentine’s Day show at the beautiful Le Maison Rouge at Paris on Ponce. featuring special guest stars Chad Sanborn and Ninja Puppet Theatre. Rocket to Ruin reunite for a dirty hard-edged  throwdown with Dreaded Marco, Bigfoot, featuring Kool Kat Jett Bryant, and Casket Creatures at Smith’s Olde Bar. One of Atlanta’s best postpunk garage bands, Subsonics, open for The Woggles at Star Bar. The Jagged Stones, featuring Kool Kat Keef Richards, head all the way OTP to rock The Cove Bar & Grill in Dallas, GA. Tommy Dean honktonks it up at Big Tex. Some of the South’s finest female vocalists, Michelle Malone, Dede Vogt, Caroline Aiken and Danielle Howle perform at Red Clay Theatre in Duluth. As usual, DJ Romeo Cologne transforms the sensationally seedy Clermont Lounge into a ’70s disco/funk inferno late into the wee hours of the night. Tony Byrd plays Sweet Georgia’s Juke Joint.

Sunday, Feb. 17

The Dark Star Orchestra brings the Force of The Grateful Dead to Variety Playhouse. Cleveland’s The Two Gentleman Band brings country swing to The Five Spot with Rolling Nowhere. Yacht Rock Revue rocks some classics into Sweetwater Brewing Company at 2 p.m. Kris Youmans Band makes it a honkytonk brunch at noon at Big Tex. The Skylarks play dunch starting at 1 p.m. at The Earl. Francine Reed and The Trio jazz up The Family Dog. Join Uncle Sugar at Northside Tavern to wrap up your weekend or check out the blues at Fatt Matt’s Rib Shack with Tony Bryant.

Frida Kahlo. Photo credit: Nickolas Muray

Ongoing

Starring Tony Award winning actress and legendary singer Melba Moore, electrifying comedy GOOD GOD A’MIGHTY takes audiences behind-the-scenes look inside an African-American church in the midst of change at the 14th Street Playhouse from February 14-24. Watch out for ATLRetro’s exclusive interview with Melba soon!

Experience a darkly romantic version of DRACULA as presented by the Atlanta Ballet, through Feb. 16, at Cobb Energy Centre. Read ATLRetro’s exclusive preview here.

The Plaza Theatre launches week-long runs of two cult classics, RE-ANIMATOR (1985) and REEFER MADNESS (1936) on Friday Feb. 15.

Make a date with FRIDA AND DIEGO: PASSION, POLITICS AND PAINTING, a blockbuster special exhibition showcasing the works of one of art’s most famous couples, at The High Museum of Art from Feb. 14-May 12.

Atlanta Lyric Theatre takes you back to the heyday of girl groups such as The Chiffons, The Supremes, Tina Turner and Aretha Franklin in high-energy musical revue BEEHIVE at the vintage Earl Smith Strand Theatre in Marietta. Feb. 15-March 3.

Learn about  a different side to the third American president and Constitution author in the Really Retro special exhibition Slavery at Jefferson’s Monticello: How the Word is Passed Down at the Atlanta History Center through July 7.

Every Tuesday and Thursday night is Retro Cinema at Movie Tavern. Check out classic movies on the big screen weekly at 7:30 p.m.

Monday, Feb. 4

Monday is Big Band Night at Café 290 with featuring Joe Gransden. Northside Tavern hosts its weekly Blues Jam featuring blues and southern soul singer, Lola Gulley. Enjoy BBQ and Dry White Toast at Fat Matt’s Rib Shack.

Tuesday, Feb. 5

There’s only one The Residents and they’re playing Variety Playhouse. Catch Leon Redbone at Eddie’s Attic. Inspired by the 1980s movie, FLASHDANCE: THE MUSICAL starts a weeklong run at the Fox Theatre. Hilarious Mel Brooks comedy western BLAZING SADDLES (1974) is this week’s retro cinema classic film at Northlake Festival Movie Tavern. Kool Kat Calu Cordeira mixes tiki libations at Mai Tai Tahitian Tuesday starting at 9 p.m. at the Dark Horse Tavern. Grab your horn and head over to Twain’s in Decatur for a Joe Gransden jazz jam session starting at 9 p.m., or you can blues it down with Nathan Nelson & Entertainment Crackers at Northside Tavern. Head over to Fat Matt’s Rib Shack for some old school R & B, rock ‘n roll and blues with Crosstown Allstars.

Wednesday, Feb. 6

Honky punk it down with Grim Rooster, featuring last week’s Kool Kat Phil Stair, open for Canada’s Corb Lund at Smith’s Olde Bar. Be enamored by the eclectic sounds of Jeffrey Butzer, Lily and the Tigers, and Book of Colors at 529. If you missed our Kool Kat on Jeffrey, catch up on it here. Get ready to rumba, cha-cha and jitterbug at the weekly Swing Night at Graveyard Tavern. Danny “Mudcat” Dudeck brings the gospel blues to Northside Tavern. Frankie’s Blues Mission blues it down at Fat Matt’s Rib Shack.

Tongo Hiti.

Thursday, Feb. 7

Big Mike is back with Tongo Hiti all month at vintage tiki bar, Trader Vic’s, where you can relax with a cocktail while listening to Retro-Polynesian luxurious live lounge sounds, as well as trippy takes on iconic pop songs, every Thursday night. The Atlanta Burlesque and Cabaret Society hosts its monthly meeting at Eliot Street Pubin the Old Fourth Ward. North Alabama garage rockers Nightmare BOyzzz play a free show at Star Bar, along with Bad Brains tribute band Fearless Vampire Killers, G/H/B (Get High Boyz) and Adam Änzio. Joe Gransden joins guitarist Sal Gentile for an evening of jazz standards at Pricci. Disco in the Village at Mary’s is your midweek neighborhood dance party, now on Thursdays. Catch another screening of this week’s retro cinema classic, BLAZING SADDLES (1974), at Northlake Festival Movie Tavern. It’s 80s vs 90s Thursdays at The Shelter. Go to Northside Tavern to hear the classic 50s Chicago-style blues of The Breeze Kings. Get on over to Fat Matt’s Rib Shack to hear Chickenshack.

The Whiskey Gentry.

Friday, Feb. 8

Experience a darkly romantic version of DRACULA as presented by the Atlanta Ballet, starting tonight and running through Feb. 16, at Cobb Energy Centre. The Whiskey Gentry, featuring Kool Kat Lauren Staley Morrow, kick off a two-night stand at The Earl, tonight playing with two of Nashville’s finest – Jacob Jones and JP Harris and the Tough Choices. Fat Back Deluxe rock the blues at Fat Matt’s Rib Shack. The Breeze Kings play both their originals and blues standards under the dinosaurs at Fernbank Museum of Natural History’s Martinis and IMAX. Head to Northside Tavern to hear Danny “Mudcat” Dudeck bring you the gospel blues.

Saturday, Feb. 9

Get romantic the rockabilly way at a special Valentine’s-themed Mon Cherie’s Rockabilly Lounge, emceed by this week’s Kool Kat, Miss Mason. Indeed the night is chock full of Kool Kats from DJ Rev. Andy spinning Psychobilly Freakout to headline band The Stumblers, featuring Kool Kat Keith Martin, plus burlesque, a raffle and more. Just go straight to Hell at The Masquerade. The Syrens of the South present their annual V-Day Vixen’s Valentease Burlesque Show at The Five Spot, featuring The Magic of Chad Sanborn, Katherine Lashe, Lola le Soleil, Tru Bliss, and a special treat of man meat, The Gentleman Callers from Athens, just to name a few! Doors are at 8 and proceeds benefit Good Mews Cat Rescue. Spend the afternoon learning to hula hoop in a class with another Kool Kat Rebecca Deshon-Gilbert, of Hoop Essence, at Core Studios Decatur. The Whiskey Gentry, featuring Kool Kat Lauren Staley Morrow, continue thir two-night stand at The Earl, this time with Folk Soul Revival and Josh Roberts & The Hinges. Jazz great Wynton Marsalis accompanies the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra. As usual, DJ Romeo Cologne transforms the sensationally seedy Clermont Lounge into a ’70s disco/funk inferno late into the wee hours of the night. Tony Byrd plays Sweet Georgia’s Juke Joint.

Sunday, Feb. 10

Recent Kool Kat Kitty Love throws a “Carnival of Love” in her monthly Sultry Sunday burlesque show series at Red Light Cafe, this time featuring her Cheeky Belles along with local guest stars. Whoa Nelly makes it a honkytonk brunch at noon at Big Tex. The Wheel Knockers play dunch starting at 1 p.m. at The Earl. The Trio and Gwen Hughes jazz up The Family Dog. Join Uncle Sugar at Northside Tavern to wrap up your weekend or check out the blues at Fatt Matt’s Rib Shack with Fatback Deluxe.

Ongoing

Learn about  a different side to the third American president and Constitution author in the Really Retro special exhibition Slavery at Jefferson’s Monticello: How the Word is Passed Down at the Atlanta History Center through July 7.

Every Tuesday and Thursday night is Retro Cinema at Movie Tavern. Check out classic movies on the big screen weekly at 7:30 p.m.

Joe Gransden.

Monday, Dec. 17

Monday is big band night at Café 290! Come out and catch Joe Gransden with guest Francine Reed at 8 p.m.  Northside Tavern hosts its weekly Blues Jam featuring blues and southern soul singer, Lola Gulley. Head over to Fat Matt’s Rib Shack for a hearty serving of BBQ and Dry White Toast.

Tuesday, Dec. 18

Chickens and Pigs plus 23 guest singers celebrate the Seventh Annual Keith Richards Birthday Bash, as Rock’s Worst Role Model continues to outlive everyone who tries to be Keith Richards. The party at The Earl benefits Ovarian Cycle, a local organization raising funds for ovarian cancer research.Don’t miss this week’s retro cinema classic, IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE (1946) at Northlake Festival Movie Tavern. The Christmas classic is directed by Frank Capra and starring James Stewart, Donna Reed and Lionel Barrymore. Check out the Tommy Dean Trio at the Georgia Shrimp Company in Peachtree City as they play favorites from The Rat Pack, classic soul and great American songbook standards. Recent Kool Kat Calu Cordeira mixes tiki libations at Mai Tai Tahitian Tuesday starting at 9 p.m. at the Dark Horse Tavern. Grab your horn and head over to Twain’s in Decatur for a Joe Gransden jazz jam session starting at 9 p.m., or you can blues it down with Nathan Nelson & Entertainment Crackers at Northside Tavern.

Wednesday, Dec. 19

Alex Cooley presents a special benefit for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, The Acoustic Road of Drivin ‘n Cryin – Kevin Kinney – and the Mystery Roadsters, Dave V. Johnson, Sadler Vaden, Dave Franklin, Ed Roland, Tom Gray, Mark Johnson, Thad Cockrell and special guest from Drag The River at Eddie’s Attic. Warm your bones and spread some holiday cheer with a good ‘ol fashioned ho-ho-ho down at the Star Bar Country Christmas with Willie Heath Neal, Rod Hamdallah and Grim Rooster (with special guest drummer TigerBeat Tony). Concrete Blonde rocks the Variety Playhouse. Don’t miss Joe Gransden’s Big Holiday Show with Francine Reed at the Red Clay Theater! Head out to see this 16-piece big band pair up with the legendary jazz diva to bring you great holiday classics. Come out to Sweet Georgia’s Juke Joint to listen to the sweet blues sounds of The Breeze Kings at 6:30 p.m. Get ready to rumba, cha-cha and jitterbug at the weekly Swing Night at Graveyard Tavern. Disco in the Village at Mary’s is your midweek neighborhood dance party and Danny “Mudcat” Dudeck brings the gospel blues to Northside Tavern.

Jeffrey Butzer.

Thursday, Dec. 20

Jeffrey Bützer and T.T. Mahony perform Vince Guaraldi’s A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS at Nine Street Kitchen in Roswell . This all-ages show is one of the new Christmas traditions in Atlanta and you can read up on it in our interview with Jeffrey here. Get into the Irish Christmas spirit when you attend Joy, An Irish Christmas at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Center. Don’t miss acclaimed Irish singers, songwriters and recording artists Keith and Kristyn Getty for an unforgettable celebration of Christmas, the show starts at 7 p.m. and tickets range from $25 – $55. Head over to Atlanta’s dirty little secret, Clermont Lounge, to attend a Christmas party you don’t want to miss. Today is the last Terrific Thursday when downtown Decatur stores offer discounts and wine and refreshments. After your shopping, attend Joe Gransden’s Big Holiday Show with Francine Reed, this time at Eddie’s Attic! Head out to see this 16-piece big band pair up with the legendary jazz diva to bring you great holiday classics. Take $7 with you to The Five Spot to hear the jazz-funk sounds of Nick and the Grooves with Questionable at Best. Catch another screening of this week’s retro cinema classic, IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE (1946) at Northlake Festival Movie Tavern. It’s 80s vs 90s Thursdays at The Shelter. New Wave classics versus Booty-shaking Eurodance will get your moving and rare and underground music videos will be playing on the screens throughout night. Relax with a tropical cocktail at vintage tiki bar, Trader Vic’s, where Tongo Hiti plays Retro-Polynesian luxurious live lounge sounds, as well as trippy takes on iconic pop songs, every Thursday night. Go to Northside Tavern to hear the classic 50s Chicago-style blues of The Breeze Kings. Get your groove back at Sweet Georgia’s Juke Joint withThe Mar-Tans at 6:30 p.m.

Friday, Dec. 21

The world ends today so why not spend your last night on earth at the Atlanta Xmas Apocalypse, this year’s incarnation of “A Krampus Christmas” with the Little 5 Points Rockstar Orchestra (the same feral folks that brought you DRACULA: THE ROCK OPERA) at 7 Stages. Take a five spot to The Five Spot to groove to the classic funk hits of the 60s, 70s and 80s with the Atlanta Funk Society and The Apostles. You will have two chances to catch a Christmas show at Eddie’s Attic with indie singer-songwriter, Ryan Horne along with Micah Dalton, Nathan Angelo and Jonathan Rich. The Ron Kimble Band plays southern rock at Cooper’s Corner in Grayson. Swing down to Northside Tavern to hear Stoney Brooks original tunes and swinging covers. Spice things up with sassy Latin rhythms and free dance lessons from Salsambo Dance Studio under the dinosaurs at Fernbank Museum of Natural History’s Martinis and IMAX.

Saturday, Dec. 22

Two chances to catch the Silver Screen Spookshow presents ABBOT AND COSTELLO MEET FRANKENSTEIN (1948) at the Plaza Theater at 1 p.m. and 10 p.m.! Professor Morte offers a unique brand of eerie entertainment, complete with a cast of creepy, colorful characters, scares, comedy and horrifically hip hijinks! Watch out for our Retro Review soon! Joe Strummer/Clash tribute band Know Your Rights thrashes The Earl, along with a screening of THE FUTURE IS UNWRITTEN, a 2007 documentary on Strummer directed by Julien Temple. The Band/Bob Dylan tribute band The Last Waltz Ensemble play their annual holiday show at Smith’s Olde Bar. Come out to Cooper’s Corner to party with The Rolling Stones cover band, The Jagged Stones, at 9 p.m. Read our Kool Kat interview with lead singer Keef Richards here. And as usual, DJ Romeo Cologne transforms the sensationally seedy Clermont Lounge into a ’70s disco/funk inferno late into the wee hours of the night. Hear the legendary R&B and jazz stylings of Nat George & The Nat George Players at Sweet Georgia’s Juke Joint at 6:30 p.m.

Hustle for the Homeless.

Sunday, Dec. 23

Hustle for the Homeless at The Earl with J.J. and the Hustlers, Tag Team, The Dirty Knockouts and the original bad Santa, Santa Dang at 8 p.m. Free admission when you donate two or more cans which go to the Atlanta Community Food Bank. The Georgia Legacy Foundation presents Stoop Down Sunday: A Benefit for Georgia Great, Chick Willis at Northside Tavern. Concert starts at noon features several of Atlanta favorite blues performers. David Ellington performs A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS at Eddie’s Attic at 3 p.m. Check out the Tommy Dean Trio at Big Tex Cantina in Decatur at noon as they play favorites from The Rat Pack, classic soul and great American songbook standards. Enjoy some hangover-friendly live music with Hoofingly playing dunch at 1 p.m. at The Earl.

Bumble menaces Rudolph, Hermey and Yukon in The Center for Puppetry Arts' live production of RUDOLPH THE RED-NOSED REINDEER. Photo credit: Clay Walker.

Seasonal Activities

Are you dreaming of a WHITE CHRISTMAS? Head to The Strand Theater to catch the musical based on the beloved Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye film. Now through Sunday, Dec. 23.

The Center for Puppetry Arts’ official stage adaptation of the Rankin-Bass misfit Christmas TV classic Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer is back for a third year with Rudolph, Clarisse, Hermie, Yukon and all the beloved characters. Read our interview with adapter/director and Center Artistic Director Jon Ludwig here. Now through Jan. 6.

Take part in an Atlanta tradition dating back more than 50 years! The Pink Pig is back at Macy’s in Lenox Square Mall. Ride the Macy’s Pink Pig Train on top of the mall through the 170-ft., 1950’s themed Pink Pig Tent. A portion of the ride’s proceeds will benefit Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. The Pink Pig will be at Lenox until Jan. 1.

All this week at The Horizon Theater, catch David Sedaris in THE SANTALAND DIARIES. An outrageous holiday comedy, written by award-winning satirical writer David Sedaris, stars Crumpet, a rebel without a Clause who recounts the true-life tale of an out-of-work writer’s stint as a Macy’s Department Store elf. Now through Dec. 30.

Award-winning Dad’s Garage offers a new take on the humbug Christmas classic with INVASION: CHRISTMAS CAROL. This nutty interpretation of the Dickens’ favorite throws all the conventional aspects of the story out the window, replacing them with a delicious improv flavor as different spirits visit every evening, to the surprise of even the cast! Shows run through Dec. 23 every Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

At Fernbank Museum of Natural History, enjoy the 3rd annual WINTER WONDERLAND, featuring trees and other displays from around the world. New this year will be special photo opportunities with Fernbank’s holiday mascot, Santa-saurus and hop aboard the Santa-saurus Express train, through Jan. 6.

Ongoing

Every Tuesday and Thursday night is Retro Cinema at Movie Tavern. Check out classic movies on the big screen weekly at 7:30 p.m.

Visit the High Museum of Art to see the Fast Forward: Modern Moments exhibit featuring artistic development from the past 100 years, 1913-2013. Artists include Henri Matisse, Salvador Dalí, Georgia O’Keeffe and Jeff Koons. Closes January 10, 2013.

Take retro to another level at the Genghis Khan special exhibition at Fernbank Museum of National History. Closes January 21, 2013.

Monday, Dec. 3

Come out to Sweet Georgia’s Juke Joint to listen to the high-energy jazz sounds of the Jacob Deaton Trio at 6:30 p.m. Northside Tavern hosts its weekly Blues Jam featuring blues and southern soul singer, Lola Gulley. Head over to Fat Matt’s Rib Shack to check out Pead Boy & The Pork Bellys at 1:45 p.m.

Tuesday, Dec. 4

Catch this week’s retro cinema classic, A CHRISTMAS STORY (1983) at Northlake Festival Movie Tavern. The Christmas classic is directed by Bob Clark and starring Melinda Dillon, Darren McGavin and Peter Billingsley as “Ralphie,” the little boy who tries to convince everyone that a Red Ryder B. B. Gun is the perfect Christmas gift. Check out the Tommy Dean Trio at the Georgia Shrimp Company in Peachtree City as they play favorites from The Rat Pack, classic soul and great American songbook standards. Recent Kool Kat Calu Cordeira mixes tiki libations at Mai Tai Tahitian Tuesday starting at 9 p.m. at the Dark Horse Tavern. Grab your horn and head over to Twain’s in Decatur for a Joe Gransden jazz jam session starting at 9 p.m. The Crosstown Allstars are rocking the blues at Fat Matt’s Rib Shack, or you can blues it down with Nathan Nelson & Entertainment Crackers at Northside Tavern.

Wednesday, Dec. 5

The Shelter is playing all your Brit pop favorites, from classics by New Order and The Stone Roses to new favorites by The Good Natured, and the party starts at 9 p.m. Head over to Sweet Georgia’s Juke Joint to listen to the sweet blues of The Breeze Kings at 6:30 p.m. Get ready to rumba, cha-cha and jitterbug at the weekly Swing Night at Graveyard Tavern. Disco in the Village at Mary’s is your midweek neighborhood dance party! Frankie’s Blues Mission is on a mission to bring the blues to Fat Matt’s Rib Shack, and Danny “Mudcat” Dudeck brings the gospel blues to Northside Tavern.

Thursday, Dec. 6

Three Bad Jacks and Kool Kat Rod Hamdallah are opening at The Earl at 8:30 p.m. Are you interested in burlesque performers, shows, performing and photography? Come down to the Elliott Street Pub for the Atlanta Burlesque & Cabaret Club Meeting to watch a burlesque show, followed by a local burlesque to-do’s and events from all over the world, and highlight a photographer in Atlanta who contributes a lot to the burlesque community. Catch another screening of this week’s retro cinema classic, A CHRISTMAS STORY (1983) at Northlake Festival Movie Tavern. It’s 80s vs 90s Thursdays at The Shelter. New Wave classics versus Booty-shaking Eurodance will get your moving and rare and underground music videos will be playing on the screens throughout night. The Breeze Kings and Chickenshack bring on the blues respectively at Northside Tavern and Fat Matt’s.

Fader Vixen

Friday Dec. 7

Gallop over to Drunken Unicorn to hear the synthpop sounds of Fader Vixen, Mr. Gnome and Nobra Noma at 9 p.m., $8 in advance, $10 at the door. Don’t miss the longest and dirtiest show of the year at Cineprov! This is the fifth year of the Ruining Childhood Memories Holiday Shows, lots of your old favorites and lots of new surprises at Relapse Theater at 8 p.m. Come down to Cabbagetown and enjoy the 6th annual Stacks Lofts and Artist Tour this Friday and Saturday night. The lofts will be hosting local artists and restaurants so come out to buy some art, sip on wine and sample the hot delicious food! The Ron Kimble Band plays southern rock at Cooper’s Corner in Grayson, and Zydefunk is bringing the sounds of the bayou to Northside Tavern. Kool Kat Bernadette Seacrest will be performing under the dinosaurs at Fernbank Museum of Natural History Martinis & IMAX.

Saturday, Dec. 8

Blast-Off Productions presents SANTA’S SUPER SATURDAY at Plaza Theater! Live holiday floor show with sing-a-longs, a dance party, hot cider and a screening of EMMETT OTTERS JUG BAND CHRISTMAS! Come traverse the spans of time and space as the Imperial Secret Society Speakeasy rolls out the plush red carpet at Blue Mark Studios at 5 p.m. to take you to the times of American Prohibition, Victorian spectacle, and the pulp fiction mystery of the 60s, hearkening to everyone’s favorite British spy. The Academy Theatre and the Atlanta Radio Theatre Company presents, for the 1th consecutive year, An Atlanta Christmas. Memories of Christmas past, our city’s past, and our past are told in a series of short, distinct vignettes, joined together by the image of a family gathered around the Christmas tree. 25% of total ticket sales will be donated to the Center for the Visually Impaired. Make sure you check out our RetroReview of last year’s show. Syrens of the South Productions presents the 6th Annual Tits for Toys for Tots Burlesque Show at The Five Spot in Little Five Points. Tickets are $20, or $10 with the donation of a new unwrapped toy worth $5.

Krampus Krawl

Have you been naughty? Celebrate the German anti-Santa with the annual Little 5 Points Krampus Krawl. Meet behind the Plaza Theater at  9 p.m. and meander your way through Little 5 Points singing carols and raising money for Toys for Tots. Make sure you dress up as Krampus! Mixtape Atlanta’s annual holiday bash X-Mix 2012 is back and this time it’s at Smith’s Olde Bar and features Kool Kats The District Attorneys along with several other rocking bands. Cover is $10 plus 2 cans of food; the money benefits Songs for Kids and the cans go to the Atlanta Community Food Bank. Come out to Cooper’s Corner to party with classic rock cover band, Rockasaurus, at 9 p.m. Head over to Northside Tavern if you are looking for a night of blues with Mudcat. And as usual, DJ Romeo Cologne transforms the sensationally seedy Clermont Lounge into a ’70s disco/funk inferno late into the wee hours of the night.

Sunday, Dec. 9

Holy Cow, Batman! It’s time for the Atlanta Comic Con at the Marriott Hotel Century Center! Nathan Massengill, current artist of BUFFY THE VAMPIRE SLAYER, and other comic favorites will be signing autographs, walkers from The Walking Dead will be there, along with several other comic artists and writers. Tony Bryant’s music represents four generations of family Georgia Blues going back to the turn of the 2th century when music was an expression of life. Listen to his musical history lesson at Fat Matt’s at 1:45 p.m. Uncle Sugar blues it down at Northside Tavern and enjoy some hangover-friendly live music with Spanky and the Love Handles playing dunch at 1 p.m. at The Earl.

Seasonal Activities

The Center for Puppetry Arts’ official stage adaptation of the Rankin-Bass misfit Christmas TV classic Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer is back for a third year with Rudolph, Clarisse, Hermie, Yukon and all the beloved characters. Read our interview with adapter/director and Center Artistic Director Jon Ludwig here. Now through Jan. 6.

Take part in an Atlanta tradition dating back more than 50 years! The Pink Pig is back at Macy’s in Lenox Square Mall. Ride the Macy’s Pink Pig Train on top of the Lenox Square Mall through the 170-ft., 1950’s themed Pink Pig Tent. A portion of the ride’s proceeds will benefit Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. The Pink Pig will be at Lenox until Jan. 1.

All this week at The Horizon Theater, catch David Sedaris’ THE SANTALAND DIARIES. An outrageous holiday comedy, written by award-winning satirical writer David Sedaris, stars Crumpet, a rebel without a Clause who recounts the true-life tale of an out-of-work writer’s stint as a Macy’s Department Store elf. Now through Dec. 30.

Award-winning Dad’s Garage offers a new take on the humbug Christmas classic with INVASION: CHRISTMAS CAROL. This nutty interpretation of the Dickens’ favorite throws all the conventional aspects of the story out the window, replacing them with a delicious improv flavor as different spirits visit every evening, to the surprise of even the cast! Shows run through Dec. 23 every Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

At Fernbank Museum of Natural History, enjoy the 3rd annual WINTER WONDERLAND, featuring trees and other displays from around the world. New this year will be special photo opportunities with Fernbank’s holiday mascot, Santa-saurus and hop aboard the Santa-saurus Express train, through Jan. 6.

Ongoing

Every Tuesday and Thursday night is Retro Cinema at Movie Tavern. Check out classic movies on the big screen weekly at 7:30 p.m.

Visit the High Museum of Art to see the Fast Forward: Modern Moments exhibit featuring artistic development from the past 100 years, 1913-2013. Artists include Henri Matisse, Salvador Dalí, Georgia O’Keeffe and Jeff Koons. Closes January 10, 2013.

Take retro to another level at the Genghis Khan special exhibition at Fernbank Museum of National History. Closes January 21, 2013.

AM Gold. Photo credit: David Batterman.

I always believe in being straight-up so I want to take a quick moment out before getting o a pretty amazing Retro Weekend in Atlanta to apologize that over the past few months ATLRetro hasn’t been your dependable one stop for all the Retro activities you want to know about in Atlanta. Our calendar writer had to move on at the same time I embarked on a big time-consuming life change. Every week I thought I could catch up, but then something else side-winded me, so some weeks went by without This Week. ATLRetro has been fortunate enough to have some great contributing writers, such as Torchy Taboo, James Kelly and Jennifer Belgard, to tide us over on the features and reviews side, and now things are beginning to calm down just as the Hallows season hits Atlanta with a vengeance. I’d love to expand the coverage to cocktails, restaurants, how-to mid-century design tips and vintage vacations. To do that, though, ATLRetro needs a few more good writers and in particular a calendar writer/editor. The latter position is a great opportunity for a journalism intern or a writer wishing looking for more experience, more bylines and some real fun! So drop a line to me, Anya99, at atlretro@gmail.com if you or someone else you know wants to join the ATLRetro team! And now back to This Weekend In Retro Atlanta!

Friday, Sept. 28

Featuring some of Atlanta’s hardest rocking musicians, AM Gold celebrates the release of its first CD at the Star Bar tonight. Find out why it’s our top pick of the evening in our exclusive interview with Kool Kat of the Week Joel Burkhart here.

We know Atlanta is Horror Town USA, even if the rest of the nation doesn’t – and it has nothing to do with THE WALKING DEAD. Before you head to the Star Bar, catch the opening of two of the city’s best homegrown haunted attractions, Netherworld and The Atlanta Zombie Apocalypse. Look for scary sneak previews here soon.

The Plaza finishes off its September Kubrick Festival with a three-day run of the crazed Cold War cult classic DR. STRANGELOVE, OR HOW I LEARNED TO STOP WORRYING AND LOVE THE BOMB (1964) starring Peter Sellers and George C. Scott.

Legendary ’80s/90s Atlanta band Insane Jane reunites for one show only for a benefit for Sylvia Cross at The Earl.  Cross was a huge supporter of Atlanta music and art through Sylvia’s Atomic Cafe in the ’90s to The Sycamore Place Gallery in the 2000s. Your cover will help with medical bills she incurred due to hip-replacement surgery without the benefit of health insurance.

Peter Sellers in DR STRANGELOVE.

This weekend more than 10,000 Japanese anime fans will descend on Cobb Galleria Centre and the Renaissance Atlanta Waverly Hotel next door for Anime Weekend Atlanta (AWA). The four-day pop culture convention kicks off tonight and runs through Sunday afternoon. To find out why it’s Retro from kaiju eiga to a jazz bebop lounge in last year’s Kool Kat interview with Jason Merrill here.

Spanky & the Love Handles bring on the blues at Fat Matt’s. Cadillac Jones, The Mar-Tans and Nick & The Grooves rock The Five Spot. Frankie’s Blues Mission plays the blues at Johnny MacCracken’s. Danny “Mudcat” Dudeck blues it down at Northside Tavern. Terry Flynn Band plays Big Tex. Join jazz vocalist Rai Ragland and her trio for an exciting evening of swing, blues, Latin, ballads and more under the dinosaurs at Fernbank Museum of Natural History Martinis & IMAX.

Saturday, Sept. 29

Listen to great bands ALL DAY at Little Five Fest, an all-day music and street festival at multiple venues. In between the live music, consider taking a break to see the Atlanta stage experience of the year, DRACULA: THE ROCK OPERA, at 7 Stages in a special 2 p.m. show (First 75 with a festival pass get in free and watch for an in-depth Retro Review soon!) and stick around Java Lords for screenings of  swell Retro flicks like WAYNE”S WORLD, PEE WEE’S BIG ADVENTURE and GHOST BUSTERS.

Over at The Plaza, Blast-Off Burlesque enter the FORBIDDEN ZONE tonight for the latest in their Taboo La-La series. It’s much more than a rare chance to see a 30th anniversary presentation of the 1982 Richard Elfman cult classic, starring Susan Tyrrell and Herve Villechaize, on the big-screen.  A zany and sexy preshow featuring special guests Chico! and Rev. Uncle Laffo, a costume contest, concubine humper contest, prizes from Libertine, complimentary cocktails and DJ Westwood-a-Go-Go! Remember, it’s only a movie that will have you living in the Sixth Dimension!

Anime Weekend Atlanta (AWA) continues. Soul Rebels Brass Band are at Smith’s Olde Bar. Tommy Dean Trio plays Big Tex. The Jumpin’ Jukes shake up Fat Matt’s.  Danny “Mudcat” Dudeck blues it down again at Northside Tavern. And as usual, DJ Romeo Cologne transforms the sensationally seedy Clermont Lounge into a ’70s disco/funk inferno late into the wee hours.

Sunday, Sept. 30

Snake Legs rock the blues at Fat Matt’s, and Uncle Sugar blues it down at Northside Tavern. Interstate plays dunch at 1 p.m. at The Earl. Anime Weekend Atlanta (AWA) concludes and it’s your last chance to see DR. STRANGELOVE, OR HOW I LEARNED TO STOP WORRYING AND LOVE THE BOMB (1964) at a 3 p.m. matinee at The Plaza Theatre.

If you know of a cool happening coming up soon, send suggestions to ATLRetro@gmail.com.

Monday, Sept. 3

Northside Tavern hosts its weekly Blues Jam featuring Lola Gulley. Head over to Fat Matt’s Rib Shack for BBQ and Peah Boy & Stephen T.

Tuesday, Sept. 4

Recent Kool Kat Calu Cordeira mixes tiki libations at Mai Tai Tahitian Tuesday starting at 9 p.m. at the Dark Horse Tavern tonight. Grab your horn and head to Twain’s in Decatur for a Joe Gransden jazz jam session starting at 9 p.m. Burning Time rock the blues at Fat Matt’s Rib Shack. Nathan Nelson & Entertainment Crackers blues it down at Northside Tavern. Dance the night away at Tues. Retro in the Metro nights at Midtown’s Deadwood Saloon featuring video mixes of ’80s, ’90s and 2Ks hits.

Wednesday, Sept. 5

Cobb Energy Centre goes classic goth with Dead Can Dance. Yippee-ki-yay, The Plaza is screening a 35mm print of DIE HARD (1988) tonight at 9:30 p.m. Get ready to rumba, cha-cha and jitterbug at the weekly Swing Night at Graveyard Tavern. Frankie’s Blues Mission plays Fat Matt’s Rib Shack. Danny “Mudcat” Dudeck blues it down at Northside Tavern. Dance to ‘70s, ‘80s and ‘90s hits during Retro in the Metro Wednesdays at Pub 71 in Brookhaven.

Thursday Sept. 6

Chris Isaak rocks Cobb Energy Centre. Go Goth again when Jesus and Mary Chain haunt Variety Playhouse. Eat, drink and play a classic game with an adult spin every Thursday night as Mon Cherie presents Mad Lib-Ations, Atlanta’s newest Retro weekly pastime, starting at 7 p.m. at the Corner Tavern in Little 5 Points. The fun-filled night includes games and prizes from some of the city’s most fun Retro retailers, Psychobilly Freakout and punk faves spun by The Right Reverend Andy and a raffle. Relax with a tropical cocktail at vintage tiki bar Trader Vic’s where Tongo Hiti play Retro-Polynesian luxurious live lounge sounds, as well as trippy takes on iconic pop songs, every Thursday night. Every first Thursday at 8 p.m., Drink and Ink at Milltown Tavern Arts provides artists with 2-for-1 Pabst Blue ribbons and Binders art supplies brings out new products to test. The Breeze Kings and Chickenshack bring on the blues respectively at Northside Tavern and Fat Matt’s Rib Shack. Mike Z Trio honkytonks it up at Big Tex.

Friday, Sept. 7

Kool Kat Rod Hamdallah plays The Earl with The Goddamn Gallows and J.D. Wilkes & The Dirt Daubers. Rockoholics are at Fat Matt’s Rib Shack. Quentin Tarantino favorite The Street Fighter (1974) with martial arts superstar Sonny Chiba is on the big screen at GSU’s Cinefest at 9 p.m.The Plaza starts a three-day run of the Stanley Kubrick classic FULL METAL JACKET (1987). Frankie’s Blues Mission brings on the blues at Johnny MacCracken’s. Danny “Mudcat” Dudeck blues it down at Northside Tavern. The Backyard Birds play Big Tex. Bonaventure Quartet swings Steve’s Live Music. Derryl Rivers and Company perform blues, jazz and a slight bit of funk under the dinosaurs at Fernbank Museum of Natural History Martinis & IMAX.

Saturday, Sept. 8

Battle of the Burgers starting at noon at John Howell Park features not just red meat but really great rockabilly, honkytonk and Redneck Underground bands including Hot Rod Walt Trio, Whiskey Belt, Slim Chance & the Convicts, Wesley Cook and Sailing to Denver.Unknown Hinson plays The Brothers and Sisters Festival at Masquerade with Blackberry Smoke, North Mississippi All-Stars, Reynolds & Williams Band and Nathan Nelson & the Entertainment Crackers. Kayla Taylor Jazz performs their Big Show of the year at Mable House Barnes Amphitheatre as part of the free South Cobb Arts Candlelight Concert series. If you missed our Kool Kat interview with Kayla, catch up here. “Come quietly or there will be trouble” when Splatter Cinema serves up a rare chance to see a 35mm print of ROBOCOP (1987) at 9:30 p.m. on the big screen at The Plaza. Tommy Dean Trio plays Big Tex. Beverly “Guitar” Watkins is at Fat Matt’s.  is at Variety Playhouse. Ike Stubblefield brings on the blues piano-style at Northside Tavern. And as usual, DJ Romeo Cologne transforms the sensationally seedy Clermont Lounge into a ’70s disco/funk inferno late into the wee hours.

Sunday, Sept. 9

Snake Legs rock the blues at Fat Matt’s, and Uncle Sugar blues it down at Northside Tavern.  Bernadette Seacrest and her R.L. Martin plays dunch at 1 p.m. at The Earl. Frankie’s Blues Mission, Snave & The Grass and Lola are at Smith’s Olde Bar.

If you know of a cool happening coming up soon, send suggestions to ATLRetro@gmail.com.