U. to host free Morphine concert

Last November, Penn "out-surfed" 35 other schools on the World Wide Web to win a free Everclear concert, but the alternative band opted to "log out" of the deal -- leaving the University at odds with Ticketmaster. But four Social Planning and Events Committee members never gave up on the victory, continuously nagging Ticketmaster to award the University with the prize, worth $15,000. At one point, the University even threatened to sue the ticket company. SPEC's efforts have finally paid off. The entire University community will be treated to a free concert by Morphine -- a self-described "low rock" band -- on December 6. The doors will open at 7:30 p.m. for the 8 p.m. concert, to be held in Irvine Auditorium. Any student with a PennCard will be able to attend the show. "Ticketmaster didn't figure that we were going to fight back," said SPEC member and College junior Erin McKeon. As a promotion of Ticketmaster's new World Wide Web site last fall, the company offered a free Everclear concert to the college with the most students who registered on the Web site. When Everclear decided not to come to the University because of their rising popularity, Ticketmaster didn't have any substitute in line. After months of discussion, Ticketmaster officials said they will give SPEC the $15,000 an Everclear concert would have cost. SPEC bid for a Morphine show, and last week, members confirmed that they will come to the University for the concert. Once described as "Muddy Waters on ganja," the band features a two-string fretless bass, played by the vocalist, drums and a saxophonist who plays both tenor and baritone saxes -- often at the same time. Student Life Assistant Director Kim Allen and 1996 College graduate Mike Parker worked with SPEC to bring Morphine to campus. McKeon said Parker was "absolutely key" during the discussions with Ticketmaster. "I am so excited about bringing Morphine here -- it's going to be a great show," said SPEC member and Wharton junior Allison Rosen. "I think a lot of people are going to come because it's free and it is also at the perfect time, right before people begin studying for exams." The Disco Biscuits, a student jazz/rock improv band, will open the concert. "Morphine is one of those bands that people are really going to enjoy listening to even if they never heard them before," Rosen said. "I hope Irvine is going to be packed."

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