Sharp Notes February 20 2002

ANTIQUES CLEARANCE. Young Antiques drummer Mason Brazelle says he’s “ready to put down the sticks.” His last show with the popular trio — Fri., Feb. 22, at The Earl — will feature special guests saying their farwells. A veteran of a list of bands — So Inclined, Loudflower, Pincil Dix — that goes back to the late ’80s, Brazelle says he’s just not having fun anymore. He still intends to play and record with friends, but has no specific plans right now. As for the bandmates he’s leaving behind, he’s pretty sure they’ll be just fine without him. “Hell,” he says, “they’ll probably get signed a few weeks after I leave.” No replacement has been announced yet. While we’re on the subject, one local drummer who’s no longer available is Dennis Pavluk, who recently joined modern-rockers Eden.

GOODIE NEWS. While hip-hoppers Goodie Mob remain on hiatus, the group’s Cameron “Big” Gipp has popped up in a locally produced film. The straight-to-video Groupies stars Gipp as himself in a romantic comedy/drama about rappers and the women who love them. Meanwhile, Gipp’s Goodie mate, Cee-Lo, is set to release his debut solo album, Cee-Lo Green and His Perfect Imperfections, April 2.

TRUTH IN LABELING. dcBatimore2012 is actually a new Athens/Atlanta label — though you’d never know it from its name (things could get dicey if, in fact, the D.C./Baltimore area is awarded the 2012 Olympics). Among its initial offerings: the domestic release of acclaimed Scottish act Life Without Buildings, a new EP by Masters of the Hemisphere, the debut solo album by Elf Power’s Adrian Finch, and a new release from Je Suis France. Contact the label at info@dcbaltimore2012.com.