2008 Woodie Awards
Barbie dolls and confetti hung from the ceiling and two rainbow flags, lit by bright, multi-colored lights, provided a back drop for the stage in the Quarry in the basement of Atwood Thursday night. A dozen performers entertained a crowd that filled every seat, and some floor space, in the room.
The marimba, according to the Latin American Folk Institute, is an instrument of questionable origin. Some believe it has roots in Southeast Asia by the 14th century, while others believe it came from South Africa and was brought to South America by slaves in the 16th century.
Arcade Fire-Neon Bible The sophomore full-length release from the Canadian multi-instrumentalist group is a dark, eerie protest album recorded in an abandoned church. The band shines on the Springsteen-esque fist-pumper, "Windowsill." Bright Eyes-Cassadaga Poetic brainchild Conor Oberst pieces together a powerful protest record, but instead of whiny emo songs about himself, Cassadaga unveils the country-folk, anti-war side of Oberst.