US – Tuesday, February 9
The week's releases
Metro staff reviews the latest CDs, DVDs and books for your reading pleasure.
 
Stern: I’d do ‘Idol’ for $100M
Howard Stern took to his radio show yesterday to address the rumors that he’s a possible replacement for Simon Cowell for the next season of “American Idol.” To sum it up? He’s not going for it.
 
Dancing while the skinny lady sings
You’ve heard of the jukebox musical? David Parsons and singers AnnMarie Milazzo and Tyley Ross of the East Village Opera Co. offer a jukebox opera, playing nightly at the Joyce. Eleven Parsons dancers share the stage with Milazzo and Ross, who clutch microphones cranked to 11 and stroll through the action. On the recorded soundtrack, three drummers create a wall of sound so loud you — well, I — want to hide under the seat. Digital video of abstract patterns, natural landscapes and stunning architecture change for each song.
 
The facets of Anne Frank and her diary
Generations of schoolchildren have read and recognized their own experiences in the words of Anne Frank, finding surprising commonalities with this young girl despite the passage of generations and the unique horror of  her situation. But according to Francine Prose’s fascinating new account of the writing of Frank’s diary, our veneration of her outpourings has eclipsed a proper assessment of Anne Frank — conscientious author.

 
Channing Tatum on love and war
Channing Tatum has worked in his fair share of genres, from indie films (“A Guide to Recognizing Your Saints”) to dance flicks (“Step Up”) to blockbusters (“G.I. Joe”). In his latest, “Dear John,” the Alabama native takes on a heavy Nicholas Sparks love story about a soldier in love while at war. He talks with us about true love and blowing stuff up.
 
Published 04:07, November the 5th, 2009
 
Paesano’s has a mean change-up.Paesano’s has a mean change-up.
Photo: CHRIS GABELLO
 

Long-lost favorites are gone, but not forgotten

 
 

Things never stay the same, even when it comes to favorite dishes. But while some are long gone, the Royal Tavern (937 E. Passyunk Ave.) is bringing back favorite menu items that have been 86ed.

Over the past seven years at the Bella Vista pub, chefs have changed and the menu’s been overhauled. Now, they’re inviting customers to vote for former favorites — like the smoked duck club —  and the most popular will be served daily starting next Wednesday and culminating in the Royal’s anniversary party on Tuesday, November 17.

Across town, the highly popular Paesano’s (152 W. Girard Ave.) has been tweaking its menu since it opened, even reformulating their namesake Paesano sandwich. Although the original was good, the beef brisket and fried egg version is, dare we say, an improvement. 

– Arthur Etchells is a local food blogger. Read more at www.foobooz.com.

Metro does not endorse the opinions of the author, or any opinions expressed on its pages.

 
 
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MMMpod
The February MMMpod features conversation from Ozzy Osbourne. Michael Emerson from "Lost" tells us about his days enjoying punk rock in Boston. We also dig up an old interview from the late great Howard Zinn. We have a song from Delta Spirit and The Soft Pack, who tell us where they got their name.

 
 
 
Metro Life Panel