US – Tuesday, February 9

Best of The Word

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 21:01, November the 18th, 2009

Depp continues to be very sexy

Johnny Depp has been chosen as People’s “Sexiest Man Alive” yet again (he also won the honor back in 2003). “Johnny Depp has magical powers. He’s unlike anyone else,” says actress Isla Fisher to the magazine about the 46-year-old. “He’s funny, generous and clever. It’s just a shame he’s so hard on the eyes.” Yes, yes, Depp is certainly sexy. But is it just us, or does he look like he’s in the running for “Greasiest Man Alive” lately as well?

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.