Drink. Dine. Do. 11.16
THE LOCAL MUSIC ISSUE LOCAL 30 BANDS BEST DANCE
PARTIES
POST-SHOW
MUNCHIES FORWARD MOMENTUM
WIZARDS’ OTTO PORTER
PAGEANT PATRIOT
DESHAUNA BARBER
INDIE UPSTARTS
TIGERS ARE BAD FOR HORSES
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DC DISTILLERIES MOONSHINE RISING CIDER SEASON RETURNS
L A E B Y RADLE
B
800.745.3000 | WASHINGTONWIZARDS.COM
TABLE OF CONTENTS NOVEMBER 2016: VOL 19 NO 2
on our
cover
WHO IS ON TAP
Photo: Courtesy of Tigers Are Bad For Horses Design: Alanna Sheppard
LOCAL SOUNDS, LOCAL SPIRITS Drink. Dine. Do. 11.16
THE LOCAL MUSIC ISSUE BANDS 30 LOCAL BEST DANCE
PARTIES
POST-SHOW
MUNCHIES FORWARD MOMENTUM
WIZARDS’ OTTO PORTER
PAGEANT PATRIOT
DESHAUNA BARBER
INDIE UPSTARTS
TIGERS ARE BAD FOR HORSES
+
DC DISTILLERIES MOONSHINE RISING CIDER SEASON RETURNS
November 8 will come and go, and life in the DMV will keep on keeping on. There was a time when the only game in town was politics, but as important as government still is to our local fabric, the city has evolved. Not only do we have a thriving music scene, the area’s distilleries are excelling and expanding. The two have more in common than you may expect - both are driven by passionate people who believe equally in pursuing their craft and building community. As the weather turns, it’s a great time to head inside for a show or a sip. Also in this issue - the Wizards season gets underway and we spend a day with Otto Porter Jr., cider continues to capture our fancy and Shakespeare Theatre cultivates a new take on The Secret Garden.
IN THIS ISSUE STAGE & SCREEN Mosaic Theatre ....................................... 4 The Secret Garden ................................. 5 Stage & Screen Events .......................... 6
NOVEMBER ROUNDUP
5
18
The Secret Garden
Otto Porter Jr.
at Shakespeare Theatre
A media day stroll
Miss USA ................................................. 8 Election Fun Facts ................................ 10 Drink, Dine, Do ..................................... 11
SPORTS Otto Porter Jr. ....................................... 18
DINING New, Notable, No Longer ................... 22 Post-Show Dining ................................ 26
DRINKS
26
32
Post-Show Dining
Cider Roundup
All night eats for party people
Ask the experts
The Bierdo ............................................. 28 ANXO Cider ............................................ 30 Cider Roundup ..................................... 32 Behind the Bar ...................................... 34 Moonshine ............................................. 38 Distillery Guide ..................................... 40
MUSIC
40
50
2016 Distillery Guide
Tigers Are Bad For Horses
Local spots for spirits
Indie sounds on the edge
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ON TAP | November 2016 | www.ontaponline.com
DJ Soul Call Paul ................................... 46 Dance Nights ........................................ 48 Tigers Are Bad For Horses .................. 50 Local Music Scene ................................ 52 Music Picks ............................................ 54
FOUNDER James Currie PUBLISHER Jennifer Currie
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KEY ACCOUNT MANAGER Tom Roth tomroth@ontaponline.com
MANAGING EDITOR Monica Alford
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DIGITAL EDITOR Adrianne Morris
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EVENTS & PROMOTIONS MANAGER Theresa Converse
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EVENTS & PROMOTIONS ASSISTANT Shannon Darling
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PRINT & DIGITAL DESIGN Alanna Sheppard
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Nick Caracciolo CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Tess Ankeny, Michael Coleman, Marcus K. Dowling, Jake Emen, Nick Hardt, Bridey Heing, Jon Kaplan, Vanessa Mallory Kotz, Eric Kozlic, Kaitlyn McQuin, Jean Schindler, Courtney Sexton
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Shelly Coates, Lindsay Galatro, Mark Raker, Courtney Sexton, Mark Van Bergh On Tap Magazine is published 11 times per year. ©2016 by Five O’Clock Publishing, LLC. All rights reserved. Use or reproduction of any materials contained herein is strictly prohibited without express prior written consent. www.ontaponline.com for more information.
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and group by group, may be able to change the world. We believe theater is the most immediate, intimate, personalized and public kind of artistic transmission, fusing so many disciplines into something visceral, emotional, intellectual, visual and energizing.
Spurring
Social
OT: Milk Like Sugar, directed by Jennifer L. Nelson, opens in November. What are you looking forward to most about producing this play? AR: I want to see a group of young women kicking ass in this play. I want to see them hitting back out at a society that marginalizes and dismisses so many of their dramas as being small and insubstantial. I want to emerge from this play with a sense that vibrant, flawed, fascinating, vital and vulnerable young women are the key to our future and that everything hangs in the balance with their fate.
Via The
OT: How do you connect with Milk Like Sugar, and why are you looking forward to directing it? Jennifer Nelson: There is little in the MLS details that I personally connect to: I grew up in a stable two-parent home where education and culture were prized above all. Perhaps that is why I am so moved by stories of those who have little or no supportive family life — particularly girls whose vision of themselves goes no further than those of the characters in the play. The play, on the other hand, gives us a chance to see how girls of limited means see themselves and their futures; and how once challenged and presented with other possibilities, their minds begin to open.
Change
Stage Mosaic Theater By Kaitlyn McQuin
On Tap had the opportunity to chat with Mosaic’s founding artistic director, Ari Roth, and resident director, Jennifer L. Nelson, to get the inside scoop on the creation of Mosaic and their upcoming production of Milk Like Sugar. On Tap: Tell me a little bit about Mosaic Theater. It’s a relatively new company. What prompted its creation? Ari Roth: We came together to create a new theater company dedicated to values of inclusion, diversity, equity and access, and devoted to programming that’s independent, intercultural, entertaining and uncensored. We’re striving to bring different communities together here in Northeast DC in the interests of creating a new fusion of passionate art enthusiasts and engaged citizens committed to public discourse informed by dramatic, personal stories. OT: Why does Mosaic focus primarily on social change? AR: We believe that art can transform consciousness and promote awareness and understanding, and little by little, person by person,
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On Tap | NovemBER 2016 | www.ontaponline.com
Photo courtesy: Mosaic Theater
Mosaic Theater Company prides itself on being innovative, inclusive, diverse and, most importantly, uncensored. Although Mosaic is a relatively new company, it is comprised of professionals who are no strangers to taking theatrical risks in the name of social change. In an effort to bridge gaps within the DC community, Mosaic’s mission is to make their theater a “model of diversity and inclusion at every strata, onstage and off.”
OT: How are you hoping “Milk Like Sugar” impacts your audience, and what message are you hoping to translate to the viewers? AR: We want laughter, tears, exhilaration, rapt attention, shock and some unexpected uplift and admiration. We need to emerge from this show trusting that our young women can be empowered to figure out how to forge ahead even when carrying burdens of their own, and of their family’s and society’s, making. JN: The message is that in spite of poverty and limited education, the human spirit yearns for and responds to hope. OT: What type of conversations are you hoping to spark within the community in response to this play? AR: There’s a new initiative that’s been launched by the President and First Lady called “Let Girls Learn” that’s designed to help adolescent girls attain a quality education and enable them to reach their full potential. I’d like to see us tap into that huge community right here in our DC schools and neighborhoods. This play is about strong young girls being made vulnerable and vulnerable young girls becoming strong. Mosaic Theater Company is setting out to change the world, and they’re starting right here in DC. Their second show of Season Two, Milk Like Sugar, by Kirsten Greenidge, which won the Playwriting Obie Award in 2012 and the San Diego Critics Circle Craig Award for Outstanding New Play in 2011, runs from November 2-27. Tickets are $20-$35.
Mosaic Theater Company: 1333 H St. NE, DC; 202-399-7993; www.mosaictheater.org
YOUNG PROSE
I
By Kaitlyn McQuin
Graphic Courtesy: Shakespeare Theatre
n an all too familiar story of loss and grief, imagination and hope, Shakespeare Theatre Company’s production of The Secret Garden, which is co-produced with 5th Avenue Theatre Company of Seattle, will take you through a season of emotions. With an all-star cast and accomplished director David Armstrong at the helm, the performance is sure to resonate with audiences ranging from young to old, while awakening a newfound taste for imagination in all. When Mary Lennox loses her parents at the age of 10 and is sent to live with her reclusive and widowed uncle, she finds herself lost in the midst of grief and hardship, until she discovers a garden hidden within the walls of her late aunt’s property. By going here to escape, Mary reawakens her imagination and discovers a joyful world where she finds reprieve from a reality laden with suffering. David Armstrong, Artistic Director of 5th Avenue Theatre in Seattle, shared a little insight on his relationship with the musical and what the audience can expect with this production. He is no stranger to the stage or to The Secret Garden, having directed the musical himself, and upon seeing the original Broadway production, has a firm grasp on his approach to the show. He says this time around, the show will be shorter and more streamlined than his previous productions, and despite having additional songs, it will tell the story more efficiently. “It’s better to have a shorter show that gets right to the message than a longer one that drags on,” he says. “You want to capture your audience, not lose them.” Armstrong believes The Secret Garden has one of the most beautiful scores written for musical theatre, and he’s excited to share it with the DC community, especially through some of the most talented actors from the DMV, Seattle and even London, like Michael Xavier, who just appeared opposite Glen Close in Sunset Boulevard. “The Secret Garden will be his US debut, so it’s very exciting,” he adds. When asked how he’d like the audience to react to the show, Armstrong replied, “Well, first, I want them to cry [laughs]. Not from sadness, but from tears of joy from vicariously experiencing how a young girl emerges through trauma, anxiety and pain, and comes back to life.” Armstrong ensures that, although The Secret Garden has melancholic undertones, the audience won’t leave the theatre feeling low. “I shall see you in the garden, and spring will come and stay,” a key lyric in the musical and the show’s tagline, assures the audiences that there is hope, even in the most isolating of times. “The garden is a metaphor that we [as humans] all have in us. It’s a place to find peace and love and joy.” The Secret Garden opens November 15 and runs through December 31. Tickets are $59-$118.
ignore your emails, turn off your cell phone and leave your ID badge
at the office
it’s time to take a NIGHT OFF!
gets you a LIVE performance, an INVITE to a YOUNG PROSE NIGHT reception and FREE glass of wine or beer
NEXT YOUNG PROSE NIGHT WILL BE HELD Wednesday, December 7 Friday, December 9 Sidney Harman Hall 610 F St. NW
202.547.1122 ShakespeareTheatre.org/Under35 wine provided by
Patrons must be 21 years or older. Valid ID required. Some restrictions apply. Subject to avalibility and connot be combined with other offers or previously purchased tickets.
Shakespeare Theatre Company: 610 F St. NW, DC; 202-547-1122; www.shakespearetheatre.org ON TAP | NOVEMBER 2016 | www.ontaponline.com
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Stage & Screen Events By Kaitlyn McQuin
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 11 – SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 13 FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 4 - SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 5 STREB Extreme Action: SEA If you've ever wondered what it'd be like to see dance, athletics, circus, boxing, rodeo and stunt work all rolled into one, look no further. STREB Extreme Action: SEA is a thrilling and death-defying work in which daredevil performers interact with mechanics and hardware specifically created for the show that's said to keep you on the edge of your seat, and how could it not? I'm imagining clowns duking it out in the ring while standing on their heads and interpretive dancing, and I'm liking it. Friday at 8 p.m. and Saturday at 2 p.m. Tickets $25-$79. Eisenhower Theater: 2700 F St. NW, DC; www.kennedy-center.org
Paula Poundstone Basically this lady is super hilarious and has been super hilarious for many years, so you should come see her show at The Birchmere Music Hall. Unlike some comics, Paula doesn't use comedy at the expense of others to intentionally make them feel like sh*t. She's a master of her craft and quick on her feet, and though she has never been one to brag, she did mention on her website that she has a pet ant. This could be a lie, but it was on the Internet, therefore it is true (and also seemed a little braggy, but I say that because I'm jealous). Friday-Sunday at 7:30 p.m. Tickets $49.50. The Birchmere: 3701 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria, VA; www.birchmere.com
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 12 - SUNDAY, JANUARY 1
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 4 – SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 19 The Migration Project An art installation project for Theatre on the Run, The Migration Project explores migration through stories of relocation. With special guest Rosemary Feit Covey, this is sure to be an experience that you will never forget. And if you do, you can just migrate on out of here! Get it? Anyone? Anyone? Bueller? Friday-Sunday, at 3 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Tickets $26.50. Theatre on the Run: 3700 S Four Mile Run Dr., Arlington, VA; www.janefranklin.com
Black Side of the Moon Do you ever find yourself sitting on your sofa thinking "I feel like laughing?” Do you think you'll have that thought in November? Lucky for you, The Second City is back in town and they're presenting something epic. The Second City's first ever all African American sketch group come together on Woolly Mammoth's stage to present Black Side of the Moon, which breaks down and builds back up “Blackness” by using comedy and shedding light on the difficulties of the past and the hope and promise of the future. Basically, it's going to be two solid hours of getting knowledge dropped on you by way of laughter. Various dates and show times. Tickets $20-$44. Woolly Mammoth: 641 D St. NW, DC; www.woollymammoth.net
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 10 – SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 13 Alexandria Film Festival Join in Old Town Alexandria for the annual film festival. An intimate four-day celebration of film, this event will showcase local, national and international filmmakers’ talents through high-quality short films, feature length films, documentaries and more. Want to get even closer? Feel free to volunteer for the event by checking out their website! Thursday-Sunday at various times. Ticket prices vary. All Access Pass $50. Alexandria Film Festival: various locations in Alexandria, VA; www.alexfilmfest.com
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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 17 – SATURDAY, DECEMBER 31 A Christmas Carol If anyone needs a little spirit of Christmas, it's Ebenezer Scrooge. How convenient that the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future run to his aid in an effort to redeem his negative outlook on the holiday season. And it works! A Christmas Carol has been a Washington tradition for more than 35 years, just as drinking copious amounts of eggnog has been one of mine. And I'm only twenty-five. Tuesday-Friday at noon, 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Tickets $22-$92. Ford's Theatre: 511 Tenth St. NW, DC; www.fords.org
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 22 – SATURDAY, DECEMBER 24 Silver Belles Signature Theatre is bringing the Christmas spirit...and sass. This hilarious holiday world premiere stars some of DC's finest such as Donna Migliaccio, Nova Y. Payton, Ilona Dulaski, Naomi Jacobson and Sandy Bainum. When the director of a small town's Christmas pageant dies, the Silver Belles must run to the rescue to save Christmas. Described as "Golden Girls meets Designing Women with a heaping helping of wellknown Christmas tunes and clever new ditties," this sounds right up anyone's comical Christmas-loving chimney. SundayMonday at various times. Tickets $40-$75. Signature Theatre: 4200 Campbell Ave., Arlington, VA; www.sigtheatre.org
Free Outdoor Film and “The Nighthawks” Concert Opening Night!
Join us as we mark a decade of celebrating independents
November 10-13 AlexFilmFest.com #AlexFilmFest | @AlexFilmFest
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FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 25 – SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 27 Once Do you ever find yourself wishing you could stumble upon a dashing street musician from Dublin whose music speaks to your soul so passionately that would inevitably result in the two of you falling madly in love and creating music together? While it’s unlikely to ever happen for us dreamers, we can at the very least watch it happen for someone else in the captivating and emotionally stimulating Once. Friday and Saturday 2pm and 8pm and Sunday at 2pm and 7:30pm. Tickets $58-$98. The National Theatre: 1321 Pennsylvania Ave., NW, DC; www.thenationaldc.org
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Tell your brand’s story. Connect with your customers. www.lgphotodc.com | 410.989.1226 www.ontaponline.com | NOVEMBER 2016 | ON TAP
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Miss USA Deshauna Barber Beauty for Good By Vanessa Mallory Kotz Photo: Nigel Barker
hen Miss District of Columbia Deshauna Barber was crowned Miss USA 2016, many credited her win to her bold response during the Q&A portion of the competition. As a soldier actively serving in the United States Army Reserve, the judges asked her opinion regarding the Pentagon’s decision to open up all combat roles to women. “Some have questioned whether this has put political correctness over our military’s ability to perform at the highest level. What are your thoughts?” the judge asked. “As a woman in the United States Army, I think it was an amazing job by our
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ON TAP | NOVEMBER 2016 | www.ontaponline.com
government to allow women to integrate into every branch of the military,” Barber answered. “We are just as tough as men.” She went on to say, “As a commander of my unit, I am powerful. I am dedicated. And it is important that we recognize that gender does not limit us.” Barber is the Logistics Commander for the 988th Quartermaster Detachment Unit at Fort Meade, MD, a job she was inspired to pursue by her father. “Although he had never been in the Army Reserves, my dad was on active duty his entire military career. He truly impressed me by how he adapted to the civilian world after he retired.” The military is the family business—her mother and siblings also serve. “My parents taught me to be happy and proud serving our country without the expectation of getting anything in return,” she said. “I still continue to have this mindset today.” After earning a Bachelor of Science degree in business management from Virginia State University, and a Master’s of Science in computer information systems from the University of Maryland, Barber became an information technology analyst for the U.S. Department of Commerce. While she clearly had the academic chops, working in a male-dominated field has not always been easy. “It has made me work even harder. Breaking those stereotypes is very important to me,” she said. “I have the education and experience to navigate the positions I have worked. I stayed driven and confident, which has helped me stand out working in IT.” To balance out her male-dominated professional life, Barber started competing in pageants, loving the novelty of getting glammed up. She made it to the semi-finals of the Miss Virginia contest in 2010 and has been competing ever since. It’s another way to channel her strength and confidence. “I like to focus on the fact that I am capable of anything,” she said. “I like to think about my past struggles, and I become stronger each day. I have jumped many hurdles in my life, and if I can make it through that then I can make it through anything.” At 26, this fierce, strong beauty is touring the country raising awareness for an often under recognized issue: soldiers suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and other mental illnesses common when faced with the trauma of combat. “Many soldiers don’t understand what they are experiencing and choose to silently fight this mental battle on their own,” Barber said. “I believe the best thing for [loved ones] to do is pay attention to their close family and friends who have returned from deployment.” “If they are acting differently, seem like they are depressed or having mood swings, then you need to contact their chain of
on the scene
For more photos From these And other events, visit the online gAllery At www.ontaponline.com.
Deshauna Barber visits the Steve & Majorie Harvey Girls Who Rule the World Mentoring Camp
I like to think about my past struggles, and I become stronger each day. command,” she urged. “If you speak to their unit and let them know what is happening, then someone can monitor and possibly recommend the soldier for further evaluation.” According to a July 7, 2016 article in Military Times, on average, 20 American soldiers commit suicide each day. “In 2014, the latest year available, more than 7,400 veterans took their own lives, accounting for 18 percent of all suicides in America, [yet] veterans make up less than 9 percent of the U.S. population.” Unfortunately, the majority, 70 percent of these suicide victims did not seek mental health care. Barber’s mission to help diminish stigma and urge military members to get help is more important than ever. “We must support our soldiers and understand that the battle does not stop when they return from overseas.”
Follow Deshauna Barber on Twitter @deshaunabarber, and on Instagram @missusa
Photos courtesy of The Miss Universe Organization
Cocktails & Canvas at 5333 Connecticut showcased the area’s top mixologists and up-and-coming artists. Guests also enjoyed light Photos: Mark Van BerGh fare and tours of the apartments.
www.ontaponline.com | NovemBER 2016 | On Tap
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7. The oldest presidential candidate to be elected was Ronald Reagan at age 69, while the youngest candidate to be elected was John F. Kennedy at age 43.
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10. Sen. M arc Rubio’s firs o t job was to “bu ild bird cages for a compan y that bred exotic birds.”
2. Republi can nominee Donald Trump is th e only presidenti al candida te with his o wn board game, titl ed “Trump : The Game .”
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Sources: 1. blog.constitutioncenter.org/2015/11/10-facts-and-some-interesting-trivia-about-election-day/ 2. www.thefiscaltimes.com/2015/07/10/15-Facts-You-Didn-t-Know-About-Donald-Trump 3. www.thefiscaltimes.com/2015/07/10/15-Facts-You-Didn-t-Know-About-Donald-Trump 4. www.huffingtonpost.com/2015/04/10/hillary-clinton-nonpolitical-facts_n_7021036.html 5. www.huffingtonpost.com/2015/04/10/hillary-clinton-nonpolitical-facts_n_7021036.html
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6. www.huffingtonpost.com/2015/04/10/hillary-clinton-nonpolitical-facts_n_7021036.html 7. facts.randomhistory.com/2008/10/20_election.html 8. alexandrafloersch.areavoices.com/fun-facts-about-your-future-president/ 9. alexandrafloersch.areavoices.com/fun-facts-about-your-future-president/ 10. alexandrafloersch.areavoices.com/fun-facts-about-your-future-president/ 11. www.chicagotribune.com/news/nationworld/politics/chi-chicagodays-deweydefeats-story-story.html
SHOP!
RESTON TOWN CENTER
HOLIDAYS ARE HERE! FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 25 8 AM Gingerbread Man Mile for Kids Shops, restaurants, and ice skating open early 11 AM 26th Annual RESTON HOLIDAY PARADE 12:30 – 4:30 PM Visits and Photos with Santa & Mrs. Claus Mini-Train Rides All Drink, Dine, Do event listings are provided by the venues hosting them.
5 PM Conservatory Ballet Performance 6 PM Tree Lighting and Sing Along 6:30 – 10:00 PM Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides
WEEKENDS SUNDAYS 12 – 4 PM
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 4 THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 3 Cheese and Cheer: Craft Beer & Cheese for the Holiday Table Spend an evening with Righteous Cheese in an intimate class discovering and savoring seasonal, artisanal cheeses. Taste four delicious cheese and craft beer pairings that will delight both newbies and cheese and beer pros alike. Fromager and beer aficionado Melissa Provinsal will delve into the story behind each cheese and beer, as well as give practical advice about selecting, serving, pairing and more. 7-8 p.m. Tickets $49, must be purchased in advance. Union Market: 1309 5th St. NE, DC; www.unionmarketdc.com
Art on Tap Enjoy local craft beers, original artwork, and amazing food at The Art League's annual Art on Tap! Craft beers from local breweries have been artfully paired with a work of art from an Art League instructor. Local restaurants have chosen a brew/artwork coupling to serve as their muse to create the perfect complimentary appetizer. Sample the creative combinations while drinking from a take-home Art on Tap beer tasting glass, and then vote for your favorite at the end of the event. 7-10 p.m. Tickets $35-$45. The Art League at the Torpedo Arts Factory Center: 105 N. Union St. Alexandria, VA; www.theartleague.org
November 27, December 4, 11, 18 Mini-Train Rides
SATURDAYS December 3, 10, and 17 4 – 9 PM Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides
THROUGHOUT DECEMBER
Allen Edmonds Ann Taylor Appalachian Spring ArtInsights Animation & Film Art Gallery at&t Wireless bluemercury Charles Schwab Chico's Cigar Town Crunch Fitness Davelle Clothiers Eyewear Gallery Francesca's Collections Greater Reston Arts Center Hyatt Regency Reston Ice Skating Pavilion (seasonal) Jos. A. Banks Clothiers Jouvence Aveda Kendra Scott Living Threads Co. L'Occitane Lou Lou Madewell Mayflowers Midtown Jewelers Origins PNC Bank Potomac River Running Pottery Barn PR at Partners PR Barbers Prime Cleaners South Moon Under Talbots Victoria's Secret Wells Fargo White House Black Market Williams-Sonoma The Wise Investor Group
Holiday Performances and Strolling Carolers
DINE!
NOVEMBER UNTIL MARCH
American Tap Room Ben & Jerry's Big Bowl BRB: Be Right Burger Busara Thai Restaurant Chipotle Mexican Grill Edibles Incredible! Il Fornaio M&S Grill Neyla Obi Sushi Potbelly Sandwich Works Tasting Room Wine Bar & Shop Tavern64 Ted’s Bulletin Uncle Julio's World of Beer ...and much more!
Ice Skating Pavilion - Open Daily
www.ontaponline.com | NOVEMBER 2016 | ON TAP
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Tickets $23. Denizens Brewing Company: 1115 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD; www.denizensbrewingco.com Hillary vs Trump Cartoon Debate Get the latest overview of the presidential candidates and insight into the hottest debate topics through the artistic commentary by renowned editorial cartoonists at the Annual Political Cartoons Show curated by Art Soiree and benefiting Cartoonists Rights Network International (CRNI). Explore the cartoons on display, meet some of the artists behind the artwork and get a chance to purchase a signed print during this one night exhibit. 8 p.m. - 12 a.m. Tickets $20. The Ritz-Carlton Georgetown: 3100 South St. NW, DC; www.eventbrite.com
Remy Martin Cognac Tasting Since 1724, Rémy Martin has been producing some of the world’s finest cognac. Enjoy a guided tasting of one of the most well-known fine champagne brandies from the Cognac region of France. Sommelier D'Nai Walker has been working for Remy Cointreau in the DC area for the past 6 years. She has had the great pleasure of visiting the Remy Martin distillery and seeing how this elegant line of cognac is crafted. Each glass of Remy Martin cognac is like taking a step back in time and D'Nai will gladly be your guide. 7-8:30 p.m. Tickets $30-$40. Alliance Fracaise de Washington DC: 2142 Wyoming Ave. NW, DC; www.francedc.org
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SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 5 Cask Ale Festival Celebrate Cask Ale as Mad Fox Brewing offers up cask ales from 20-plus breweries around the region. Enjoy live music and grilled fare while sipping traditional cask conditioned ales outdoors in the Market Square. VIP tickets feature early admission sampling, and unlimited food until 5 p.m. General admission ticket holders receive a sampler glass from Mad Fox and six tickets for food and beer samples. 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. There will be activities for kids. Tickets $25-$65. Mad Fox Brewing Company: 444 W Broad St. #1, Falls Church, VA; www.madfoxbrewing.com DC Beer Fest The DC Beer Festival returns to Nationals Park, bringing together dozens of craft breweries and featuring fall seasonal beers. Taking place throughout the stadium's concourse including Centerfield Plaza, Budweiser Brew House, Bud Light Loft and Budweiser Terrace, the DC Beer Fest will have over a dozen food trucks as well as lawn games, DJs, and more. Noon to 3 p.m., and 5-8 p.m. Admission is $45 for each session. Admissions include unlimited tastings, with food sold separately. Nationals Park: 1500 South Capitol St. SE, DC; www.dcbeerfestival.com Learn to Homebrew Day Kettles & Grains is looking for homebrewers to bring their equipment and brew out in front of the shop. Homebrewers brewing at the event will receive 15% off ingredients for that day's brew. This marks a great opportunity to observe various styles of homebrewing, see different equipment in use and ask lots of questions. GrainFather will have a demonstration starting at 10 a.m. The event is from Noon-5 p.m. If interested
On Tap | NovemBER 2016 | www.ontaponline.com
contact the store. Kettles & Grains: 161 Fort Evans Rd. NE, Suite 100, Leesburg, VA; www.kettlesandgrains.com
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 10 Novemberfest A rollicking outdoor block party that celebrates the season in style with a lineup of craft beers spanning an array of flavors and styles, including 30 of the finest Virginia producers bringing their very best for this occasion. Expect strong stouts and potent porters, pumpkin ales and session brews, fresh-hop harvest ales, IPAs, sours and barrel-aged beauties. Rustico will provide a menu of hearty dishes to satisfy, such as a whole smoked pig, sausages, barbecue pork sandwiches, fried chicken and more. Wine lovers can enjoy choice selections from Virginia's own Barboursville Vineyards. Local bluegrass bands will provide entertainment and plenty of games and activities will be on hand for the whole family. Noon - 5 p.m. Tickets $25. Rustico Restaurant & Bar: 827 Slaters Ln. Alexandria, VA; www.rusticorestaurant.com
Pie, Pottery, Print + Punch Dreaming of making the most delicious and perfect pie for the next family gathering or holiday party? Even better, what would it be like to serve the pie in a beautiful, one-of-a-kind handmade pie dish? Join chef and illustrator, Marcella Kriebel, and Kuzeh Pottery for a handson pie making class and learn how to make a scrumptious pie. One handmade pie dish, one watercolor pie print and a pie to take home are included in the admission. Also, enjoy pies and cocktails throughout the event. 7-8:30 p.m. Tickets $95. West Elm: 1728 14th St. NW, DC; www.westelm.com.
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 6 She’s Crafty; Ladies and Beer Denizens Tour Open to everyone! Head out to Silver Spring to sample beers at Maryland's only woman and minority owned brewery. Fee includes a tasting, appetizers from Denizens' own kitchen and an introduction by an owner. Full pours and a complete menu are also available. Carpool, make a day of it, get adventurous! 1-3 p.m.
November Evenings at the Edge: After Hours at the National Gallery of Art Spend an evening with friends exploring the Gallery's collection and special exhibitions and enjoying live music, theatrical performances, and films. Davina and The Vagabonds offer a selection of blues, jazz, and gospel music, and percussive dancer Joseph Webb, founder of Washington, DC’s American
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 11 Dogfish Head & Sehkraft Stand Up for Veterans Join Sehkraft as they celebrate the release of Dogfish Head’s latest beer, “World Wide Stout,” and the pouring of the “Siracusa Nera,” which is only available at the brewery and Sehkraft. The Dial Ups will also perform at 9 p.m., so come out and celebrate Veterans Day with good tunes and a new beverage. Event starts at 5 p.m. Sehkraft Brewing: 925 N Garfield St. Arlington, VA; www.sehkraftbrewing.com Embassy of Dance, takes the stage. 6-9 p.m. Admission is free, but registration is required. National Gallery of Art East Building: 4th St. & Constitution Ave. NW, DC; www.nga.gov.
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 11 Boots on the Ground Join as Rebellion DC kicks off their first annual Boots on the Ground Veterans Day bar crawl. Starting at Rebellion DC, the group will make its way to Saint Arnold’s on Jefferson and finish off the evening at Black Rooster’s Pub. There, Big Frank’s Bacon & BBQ will provide late night snacks, plus Honor Brewing Company will offer specials at all three bar, all night. T-shirts will be for sale at all locations, and proceeds will be donated to charities supporting veterans. 4 p.m. - 2 a.m. Starting point at Rebellion DC: 1836 18th St. NW, DC; www.rebelliondc.com
Veterans Day Celebration in the Taproom For the month preceding Veterans Day, Fair Winds Brewing Company will allow customers to "buy a Vet a beer," and write them a note of thanks. On the 11th they will open the doors at noon and all veterans and active duty service members can enjoy their first beer paid for and will receive a note of thanks provided by one of our customers. Come out and help honor those that have served. Noon - 10 p.m. Fair Winds Brewing Company: 7000 Newington Rd. Suites K&L, Lorton, VA; www.fairwindsbrewing.com
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SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 12 Friendsgiving at the Brewery It's their first Thanksgiving and New District Brewing wants to show how thankful they are by celebrating with their friends in the best possible way: fried turkeys, unlimited food, and craft beer. Turkeys will be fried on site by Four Mile Run's very own Antone and The Grill Masters. Each ticket includes unlimited food (turkey, classic Thanksgiving sides, and BBQ) and two beers. There are two time slots, so make sure you and your friends pick the same one. First time slot is 1-3 p.m., second time slot is 4-6 p.m. Tickets $45. New District Brewing Company: 2709 South Oakland St. Arlington, VA; www.newdistrictbrewing.com Guests at the Harvest Festival at Tysons Biergarten celebrated the new fall season by enjoying over 50 pumpkin, chai, spice and Photos: shelly Coates seasonal beers.
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- 10 p.m. Tickets $55-$65. DC Beerathon: Various Locations; www.FB.com/DCbeerathon/ presenters covering a diverse array of topics, including exploration, animals, space and conservation. Various times and prices pending on event. View the full calendar of events on the website. National Geographic Museum: 1145 17th St. NW, DC; www.fotodc.org
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 25 Kitchen Confidential: How the Culinary Scenes for Downton Abbey Were Filmed Join for a luncheon talk by CiCi Williamson with photographs about the researching, styling and filming of the food scenes for Downton Abbey. CiCi’s talk is based on an interview she did in London with Lisa Heathcote, the British food stylist who produced the foods for the six-year series. Also included in the presentation will be the history of Highclere Castle (site of the Downton Abbey estate); a comparison of the real Earls of Carnarvon with the fictitious Earl of Grantham and the Crawley family; and how the lavish food service of Victorian and Edwardian England influenced Downton Abbey tables. Lunch starts at 12:30 p.m. Tickets $55. Occidental Grill: 1475 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, DC; www.occidentaldc.com
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 12 - SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 20 FotoWeek DC 2016 This season, for the first time ever, National Geographic is partnering with FotoDC and Brightest Young Things to host the world-class photography celebration FotoWeekDC at National Geographic headquarters. The festival will feature inspiring talks and stunning exhibitions curated by some of the world’s best photographers and filmmakers. The remainder of the fall schedule features
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SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 13 From Gaza to Haifa: Celebrating Palestine’s Culinary Heritage Join Laila El-Haddad, Maggie Schmitt, and the Tabard Inn's renowned chef, Joud Achkar, at the historic Tabard Inn for a culinary celebration of Gaza and the rest of Palestine. Laila and Maggie are currently releasing the expanded, wholly redesigned 2nd edition of their gorgeous cookbook, The Gaza Kitchen-- described by no less an expert than Anthony Bourdain as "A classic of world food." A ticket includes food. 4:30-8 p.m. Tickets $92. Tabard Inn: 1739 N St. NW, DC; www.tabardinn.com
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 14 Meet Vivian Howard and Eat from her Food Truck Deep Run Roots is Vivian Howard’s comprehensive record of modern Southern cooking, filled with stories and more than 200 recipes that celebrate the flavors of her eastern North Carolina home. Organized by ingredient with dishes suited to every skill level, Deep Run Roots features meals from her acclaimed restaurant Chef and the Farmer and recipes that serve as a culinary love letter to the South. Tickets include a cookbook and a signature sandwich prepared by Howard’s food truck. 5-7 p.m. Tickets $52.40 Williams-Sonoma: 4824 Bethesda Ave. Bethesda, MD; www.eventbrite.com
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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 17 Burgers and Beats #BURGERSANDBEATSDC is a pop-up event celebrating the marriage of two of the finest things in life, burgers and music discovery. Beginning in the late afternoon, it will kick off with Chicas Burgers, one of the best burger spots in town. After everyone has had their fill, the tables will be cleared to make room for MADE IN THE DISTRICT’s curated list of well known (electronic/hip hop) guest DJs from all over the country for one solid party. 7-11 p.m. Tickets $12-$15. Buckeye + Bear: 1730 M St. NW, DC; www.buckeyebear.com
26th Annual Reston Parade Reston Town Center launches the holiday season at the 26th annual Reston Holiday Parade with Macy’s-style balloons, marching bands, dancers, antique cars, characters, community groups, Santa and Mrs. Claus, and much more. Following the parade are visits and photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus plus mini-train rides until 4:30 p.m., a tree lighting and sing along at 6 p.m., followed by horse-drawn carriage rides until 10 p.m. Free to attend. Reston Town Center: 11900 Market St. Reston, VA; www.restontowncenter.com
ELECTION
Parties
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 19 DC Beerathon The DC Beerathon is an annual tradition of craft and premium beers at DC’s best bars and restaurants, now in its fifth year. Rock out all day with beers and great food at DC’s best venues. A ticket includes 26 different six oz. beers, two at each of 13 of DC's best venues. Noon
ALL TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 8 Arlington County Democratic Committee Viewing Party Now that your civic duties are complete, join the Arlington County Democratic Committee at Sehkraft brewing as everyone joins together to watch the counts come in from around
the country. 7 p.m. - 1 a.m. Free to attend. Sehkraft Brewing: 925 N Garfield St. Arlington, VA; www.sehkraftbrewing.com Vote It Up at the Park Whether you’re Team Hillary or Team Trump, watch history in the making with The Park at 14th over dinner and drinks. If food and drinks don’t catch your fancy, then stop by for the dancing and mingling to help ring in the results. 5 p.m. - 2 a.m. Park at Fourteenth: 920 14th St. NW, DC; www.park14.com NCAC Election Night Watch Party Join the Fulbright National Capital Area Chapter to watch the 2016 presidential elections results at Local 16. Happy hour prices will be available the whole evening, so come by to watch the end of this historic presidential campaign. The group will be in the lounge on the second floor of the bar. Registration on Eventbrite. 6:3010 p.m. Local 16: 1602 U St. NW, DC; www.localsixteen.com
Election Night Watch Party Join MakeSpace as they watch election results come in over the course of the evening and see who our next president will be! They’ll have food and games - all are welcome. 7-10 p.m. Free to attend. MakeSpace HQ: 6082 Franconia Rd. Units C & D, Alexandria, VA; www.eventbrite.com/e/ election-night-watch-partytickets-28817080664?aff=es2
Election Day Results Watch @ Ri Ra Irish Pub Georgetown Starting at 4pm the bar will be showing the 2016 Presidential Election results on all eight screens throughout the pub and will have politically-inspired food and drink specials all evening! Grab a seat downstairs at the Victorian bar, in the elegant Theatre Room for dinner or relax upstairs in the Whiskey Room and adjoining President's Room. First come, first served as there is no reserved seating. 4 p.m. - 2 a.m. Ri Ra Pub, Restaurant & Whiskey Room: 3125 M St. NW, DC; www.rira.com/georgetown/
Henry Rollins (Election Night Spoken Word) Rollins has toured the world as a spoken word artist, as frontman for both Rollins Band and Black Flag and as a solitary traveler with insatiable curiosity, favoring road-lesstraveled locales such as Nepal, Sri Lanka, Siberia, North Korea, South Sudan and Iran. Henry currently hosts a weekly radio show on L.A.’s renowned NPR affiliate KCRW, in addition to writing weekly columns for the LA Weekly and Rolling Stone Australia. He will offer his unique brand of spoken word on election night. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., show at 8 p.m. The Lincoln Theatre: 1215 U St. NW, DC; www.thelincolndc.com
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Pumpkin Palooza at The Wharf DC had pumpkin fun for everyone. Festivities included pumpkin bowling, fall beers, pie eating and a Photos: Mark raker costume contest for the furry friends.
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on the scene
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Election Night Watch Party Sixth and I The most bizarre, disruptive, and shocking Presidential race in modern history will soon come to a close. No matter party affiliation, everyone is welcome. Watch the results come in on big screen TVs tuned to CNN, MSNBC, and FOX. Take selfies with cardboard cutouts of the candidates. Calm your nerves and pass the time with mindless eating from our candy bar. Wear your “I Voted” sticker to get a high-five from Sixth & I staff upon entry. Come together – as Washingtonians, Sixth & I’ers, friends and human beings – to see what the future holds. 7:30 p.m. - 12 a.m. Tickets $10. Sixth & I: 600 I St. NW, DC; www.sixthanddi.org
Pumpkin Fest at the Shops at Avenir featured pumpkin decorating, a beer garden and treats from merchants. Proceeds benefited the Vienna Fire Department. Photos: Mark raker
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Election Night Viewings at AMC Theaters AMC Theatres is teaming up with CNN to bring the network’s Election Night in America coverage to AMC Stubs members and their guests at movie theatres around the country. CNN will deliver winners and analysis of the Presidential race and other highprofile national, state and local elections on the big screen. At 50 theatres in 25 major markets nationwide, guests can reserve a spot at their election night party by choosing between AMC locations designated as “Blue” and “Red.” Viewings begin at 7 p.m. Must be a AMC Stubs member, or be invited by one.
Blue Viewing at AMC Hoffman Center: Hoffman Town Center, 206 Swamp Rd., Alexandria, VA; www.amctheaters.com Red Viewing at AMC Mazza Gallerie 7: 5300 Wisconsin Ave. NW, DC; www.amctheaters.com
United States Presidential Election Watch Party Finally, the end is here and Mellow Mushroom invites patrons to gather at its establishment to take in the results of this year’s presidential election. Attendees will receive a free pint with a Facebook check-in, free pint with an Instagram post geo-tagging Mellow Mushroom, plus beer specials from red and blue states. There will also be a game of trivia at 8 p.m. on the second floor. 6-10 p.m. Mellow Mushroom: 2436 18th St. NW, DC; www.mellowmushroom.com/ store/adams-morgan/
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A Media Day Stroll with Wizard
otto ot otto to porter By Trent Johnson
O
tto Porter Jr. emerges from one of the various rooms buried deep within the Verizon Center, and he looks spooked. “I just talked to you about the scary stuff.” The 6’8” 23-year old says this not in a “ghost is haunting my house” sort of way, but more like a kid visiting their first haunted house way. He’s just experienced a virtual reality media day station and he’s excited. “It was a virtual reality thing, and I was in this living room and it was dark, but a light was flashing,” Porter explains. “The TV screen was, oh-my-god. I was looking in front, and a ghost just appeared on my shoulder, and I jumped. Movies I can handle, but not when I’m in it.” For twenty-five minutes, actually double that if you count the various breaks, I talked to Porter Jr. in between media day stops. The conversation wasn’t structured like a movie or novel, start to finish: there were long periods of absence between questions, answers and topics. Though the back and forth was fragmented, his responses were complete. And through the process I learned two things: NBA
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jr. Photo Courtesy: Washington Wizards
media day is like the first day of school, and Otto Porter Jr. is a very laid back guy. The Jr. is because he’s the second Otto Porter in his family. He’s also not the first basketball standout in the family, as both mom, a sweet jump shooter, and dad, a ferocious dunker, starred on the hardwood at various levels long before our Otto, the Wizards’ Otto faced off with either of them, or his cousins, on the blacktops of Haywood City, Vanduser and Morley, Missouri. “[Basketball] was part of my life growing up, and it was something I grew to love,” Porter says. “Growing up playing with my dad, and my family, it taught me a lot. The games instilled the will to win in me. Losing was never an option, and there was a lot of trash talking.” Since the back-and-forths in the tiny towns with populations between about 200 and 600, Porter has made Washington, DC his home away from home. It started when he committed to Georgetown University in 2011, where he starred for the Hoyas wowing crowds
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with a versatile game, which saw him cut for baskets, defend with tremendous length and put his family groomed basketball IQ to the test. “It was a culture shock, and it was a revelation that there is a world out there besides what you know,” Porter says. “A lot of Georgetown fans are really DC fans, they’re definitely hardcore fans, they can be a little funny, but being here at Georgetown, I’ve gotten to know them pretty well.” Since he was drafted by the Wizards third overall in the 2013 NBA Draft, Porter is basically a local. Like a lot of people who live in an area for a solid chunk of time, Porter acknowledges the ups and downs of inhabiting the district. The place is alive with energy, but it’s crowded. The weather is cool in the fall and spring, but is unbearably hot in the summer and crudely cold in the winter. Even though he’s no longer a student, Porter still appreciates the walkability of his surroundings, specifically the waterfront of Georgetown. “Well this is definitely my second home, between home-home and here,” Porter says. “I like the people and the environment I’m in. From the DC people to the tourists to the attractions, it’s always busy. It’s the nation’s capital. It’s definitely an interesting city. I don’t go downtown that much unless my family is here anymore. I used to be into the monuments when I first got here, I was basically a big tourist. Now I do a lot of walks in other areas; the Georgetown waterfront is nice.” It’s hard to blame Porter for being uninterested in the downtown monuments scene, because at 6’8” he sort of sticks out among the masses, hovering over me like a circus performer on stilts. And in the social media age, it’s hard for an athlete to do anything without drawing attention. This morning, all that attention is on Otto and his teammates as they’re chauffeured to and from rooms in the Verizon Center tunnels for media day. In each Porter is asked to fulfill an obligation, and afterwards the Wizards will load onto a bus to Richmond for training camp, where the actual basketball preparation will begin. Last season the Wizards underachieved according to most basketball analysts. The team was coming off an unexpected postseason run in 2014, where they fell 4-2 in a hard fought series in the Eastern Conference semifinals to the Atlanta Hawks. A loss many felt could have been avoided if point guard John Wall wasn’t out with an injury. With a complete roster in 2015, hopes were high for a victory. But instead of thriving under the spotlight, the team sputtered, finishing with a 41-41 record, and instead of postseason redemption, they missed the playoffs. Former coach Randy Wittman was fired and replaced by newcomer Scott Brooks, who experienced success with the Oklahoma City Thunder and stars Russell Westbrook and Kevin Durant. “In the new system, my length is an advantage,” Porter says. “That’s a big thing along with angles and my knowledge of the game. I try to use all that to my advantage, and I think those bode well in the system.” One could say the first few years of Porter’s professional career had some rough patches, as he struggled with recurring injuries to his right hip. Despite this, Porter has improved on his outside shot and defense since entering the league, finding a nice niche with the Wizards. “A goal of mine this season is to win [the NBA Most Improved Award],” Porter says. “I can definitely win that award.” After we cover basketball, I ask him about doing media. It felt like the right thing to ask after his numerous interviews and photo shoots, while doing another interview in between. “It’s part of the process, it’s good,” Porter says. “It means the season is here. Everybody is excited.” Even though I believe him, he seemed more excited about the haunting virtual reality session.
For 2016-2017 Wizards season schedules and tickets, visit www.nba.com/wizards.
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New | Notable | No Longer
Owen’s Ordinary
By Jean Schindler
Photo Courtesy of Tredici Enoteca
On Tap keeps locals in the know about the latest and greatest food and drink locales around town, our top foodie picks for the month, and spots that have recently closed their doors. Read on to get the inside scoop on what’s new, notable and no longer in the DC area.
Photo: Owen’s Ordinary
Open: Oct. 17 Location: North Bethesda Lowdown: Beer – 50 rotating drafts, 200 rotating bottles The Neighborhood Restaurant Group (Bluejacket, Churchkey) makes its first foray into Montgomery County with a beer palace. Even more impressive than the size of the beer selection is its deliberate focus on Maryland breweries. Half of the drafts offered at opening were products of Maryland, and Owen’s will continue to favor on the state’s producers as they rotate their selection. We also liked the menu of beer-complementing eats (pretzels, moules frites, fondue, burgers). Owen’s Ordinary: 11820 Trade Street, North Bethesda, MD; www.owensordinarymd.com
NEW The Backroom at Kingbird Open: Oct. 25 Location: Foggy Bottom Lowdown: The Watergate is back The remade Watergate has been returning to its glory in stages, and the latest opening features luxury in the form of “hyperseasonal” three- and four-course tasting menus that start at $75. The concept includes a focus on tableside presentations (look for smoke pots and flames) and posh ingredients, such as biodynamic herbs. Oh, and there are $100 cocktails. Let us know how you like those, would you? The Backroom at Kingbird: 2650 Virginia Ave. NW, DC; www. thewatergatehotel.com/dine-and-drink/ washington-dc-restaurant-kingbird
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Photo: Proper 21 Photo: La Ferme Restaurant
Cognac Le Bar at La Ferme Restaurant Open: Sept. 28 Location: Chevy Chase Lowdown: Pink Love (cognac, raspberry liquor, Champagne) This long-time neighborhood favorite has launched a new bar within the restaurant, and just in time – their selection of cognac is perfect for cozy, cold-weather drinking. It also features its own menu of Frenchinflected small plates and an elegant handful of cognac-based cocktails. Cognac Le Bar at La Ferme Restaurant: 7101 Brookville Road, Chevy Chase, MD; www.lafermerestaurant.com/cognac-le-bar
Proper 21 Open: Oct. 21 Location: Metro Center Lowdown: Sexy sports bar Proper 21 brings the sleek Manhattan aesthetic of its parent bars to a mellow stretch of F Street (a little too mellow for the previous two occupants of this space, both Italian restaurants). Looking for a spacious, sophisticated destination to watch a game? Craving a nicer meal than wings and fries while you watch it? Then you should be at Proper 21 – lots and lots of screens, thoughtful food, a solid drinks menu, and a “Tom Ford meets Thomas Edison” aesthetic (visit, and tell us if you get it). Proper 21: 1319 F St. NW, DC; www.proper21.com
Service Bar
Shaw Bijou
Photo: Shaw Bijou
Open: Nov. 1 Location: Shaw Lowdown: $185 + tax, tip, drinks You might need to sell your bijoux to eat at Kwame Onwuachi’s hotly anticipated restaurant – but you will get a nearpersonalized and unique experience as you spend the evening moving around the multi-floored restaurant to experience different parts of your customized 13-course tasting menu. The beautiful restaurant (a town house converted specifically for this project) has only eight tables and will serve 40 people per night, and tickets are non-refundable. Let’s see if this talented 26-year-old chef can pull this off. Shaw Bijou: 1544 9th St. NW, DC; www.theshawbijou.com
Open: Oct. 20 Location: U Street Lowdown: $7 daiquiris There’s a shocking new trend starting to emerge in DC: affordable cocktails. At Service Bar, sure, some of the edgy and “hyperseasonal” drinks (like the Heirloom Carrot Margarita) are closer to the (now) usual DC price tags, but classic cocktails are $7 and shots are BOGO all day long. And we’re huge fans of the cute menu, which has all sorts of little icons to inform you about your drink’s size and strength. Did we mention that there is also fried chicken? Go. Now. Service Bar: 928 U St. NW, DC; www.servicebardc.com
Spirits of 76 Open: Oct. 20 Location: Clarendon Lowdown: George Washington’s dive bar Longing for simpler times after the bruising election season? Head to Clarendon’s cozy new “Revolutionary War-themed” bar for American whiskies and well-prepared American bar food (yes, this incudes fish tacos). The theme is actually Americana (we love the Babe Ruth statue), but we
Finn Alford Congratulations to our managing editor Monica Alford, and her husband Aaron, on the birth of their son, Finn Alford! We’re looking forward to meeting the newest addition to the OT family.
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were scratching our heads over the “Aldridge Ames Burger” (which was delicious). Is the double burger really named for the CIA double agent arrested in the 1980s? What would George Washington say? Spirits of 76: 3211 Washington Blvd., Arlington, VA; www.FB.com/thespiritsof76
Photo Courtesy of Tredici Enoteca
Tredici Enoteca
Penn Quarter
November
BREWERY EVENTS
11/8
BREWERY TOURS & KELLERBIER TASTING 5:30PM - 7:00PM
Join Travis for a Brewery Tour & a Kellerbier tasting
WINTERBOCK TAPPING PARTY 11/15 5:30 -7:30
PM PM Our winter seasonal, a malty doppelbock style with a ruby hue & a deceptively smooth finish. Charity fundraiser: DC Central Kitchen
11/22
BREWER’S HAPPY HOUR 5:00PM-7:00PM
Open: early November Location: Dupont Circle Lowdown: Philly wine bar comes to DC I once went to an engagement party at the previous restaurant in the St. Gregory Hotel; despite its tony location, the couple got a startling bargain on mimosa service for 50. We collectively probably drank the hotel into reconsidering their business model. Along with an extensive remodel (the lobby was looking a bit dated), the hotel welcomes Philadelphia darling Tredici Enoteca. The cheap bottomless mimosas are gone, but there is now an extensive wine list and a smart selection of cocktails and sharable plates. Tredici Enoteca: 2033 M St. NW, DC; www.stgregoryhotelwdc.com/the-hotel/tredici-enoteca/
Union Drinkery Open: Sept. 28 Location: Parkview Lowdown: Neighborhood cocktails This is my new favorite DC bar: friendly bartenders shaking affordable cocktails for a happy mix of long-time locals and more recently arrived young professionals. Its big gravel yard, which is shielded in the back from Georgia Ave., is doggie-friendly, and the unpretentious indoor bar is perfect for long winter evenings. Happy hour features $7 cocktails and $5 wine/beer. Union Drinkery: 3216 Georgia Ave. NW, DC; www.uniondrinkery.com
NOTABLE
Join Scott at the bar to learn about beer and enjoy our happy hour specials.
WINTERBOCK BEER PAIRING 11/29 6:00 -7:00
PM PM Come enjoy a pairing of two cheeses and German Chocolate Cake with our Winterbock! $10 gets you 3 samples and a 21oz beer!
Photo: &pizza
&pizza When: Now Location: Chinatown Lowdown: &cocktails The popular local chain opens yet another pizza assembly line – but this is the first with a bar. Currently there are three specialty cocktails on offer, each featuring local distilleries: vodka ginger-berry lemonade, whiskey with peach-ginger tea, and tequila with lime and passionfruit. Drink up. &pizza: 705 H St. NW, DC; www.andpizza.com
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Now Open Los Cuates
East Grill Karaoke
2429 18th St. NW, DC; www.loscuatesrestaurant.com
12 N. Washington St., Rockville, MD;
La Colombe 201 M St. NE, DC; www.lacolombe.com
Different Pizza
Zippin’ Chicken
520 12th St. S Suite 150, Arlington, VA; www.commonwealthjoe.com
Georgia and Harvard Sts. NW, DC;
Proper 21 1319 F St. NW, DC; www.proper21.com
Jrink 3250 Wilson Blvd., Arlington, VA; www.jrink.com
Spirits of 76 3211 Washington Blvd., Arlington, VA; www.spiritsof76arlington.com
Service Bar 926-928 U St. NW, DC; www.servicebardc.com
&pizza 405 8th St. SE, DC; www.andpizza.com
The Backroom at Kingbird 2650 Virginia Ave. NW, DC; www.thewatergatehotel.com
Commonwealth Joe’s
Johnny’s Half-Shell 1819 Columbia Rd. NW, DC; www.johnnyshalfshell.net
Rita’s 3109 Martin Luther King Ave. SE, DC; www.ritasice.com
Ocean Prime 1341 G St. NW, DC; www.ocean-prime.com
Ambar 2901 Wilson Blvd., Clarendon, VA; www.ambarrestaurant.com
World of Beer 11861 Palace Way, Fairfax, VA; www.worldofbeer.com
1000 Degrees Pizza
Letena 3100 14th St. NW, DC; www.letenarestaurant.com
HalfSmoke
Rare Bird Coffee Roasters
651 Florida Ave. NW, DC; www.halfsmoke.com
230 W. Broad St., Falls Church, VA; www.rarebirdcoffee.com
Chuy’s
1309 5th St. NE, DC; www.littlebabysicecream.com
Owen’s Ordinary 11820 Trade Street, North Bethesda, MD; www.pikeandrose.com/ food/owens-ordinary/
Blumen Cafe 2607 Wilson Blvd., Arlington, VA;
For more photos From these And other events, visit the online gAllery At www.ontaponline.com.
1764 Columbia Road NW, DC;
3400 Columbia Pike, Suite 200, Arlington, VA; www.1000degreespizza.com
Little Baby’s Ice Cream
on the scene
1776 E Jefferson St. #117, Rockville, MD; www.chuys.com
Tilt 1612 14th St. NW, DC; www.tiltdc.com
CLASS 520 5 Dawson Ave. , Rockville, MD;
Toku Japanese & Asian Cuisine 1301 U St. NW, DC; www.tokudc.com
NO LONGER Fuego Cocina y Tequileria, Clarendon Libertine, Adams Morgan Park Lane Tavern, Clarendon Spice, Clarendon
Locals dug into the 5th Annual D.C. Pie Fest at Bourbon.The event featured the city’s best home bakers competing for prizes and glory. PhoTos: Mark raker
www.ontaponline.com | NovemBER 2016 | On Tap
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I
By Jean Schindler was a late convert to the joys of 24-hour dining, arriving to the District armed with a blue suit and a youthful commitment to fluorescent lit federal bureaucracy. However, it was through DC’s corrupting influences that I washed up on the doorstep of Honeypig one night at about 3 a.m. The waitresses were cranky, the ventilation eye-watering — and the piles of barbecue meat coupled with the spread of Korean banchan (little side dishes) were epically comforting. After a night of raucous music and adult beverages, it was a chance for friends to refuel together and have some final bonding time to close out an unexpected DC weekend. I still hang out under fluorescent lights, but now I know which location of Bob & Edith’s Diner is best (Columbia Pike, obviously), what Korean barbecue destination I prefer to Honeypig (not telling – it’s already too crowded), and where to get fish tacos in the middle of the night (Surfside, 1800 N St. NW, DC).
Bob & Edith’s Diner
The challenge is matching late-night dining with DC’s entertainment venues, some of which come without obvious food pairings. For instance, Alexandria’s Birchmere is near a car wash and a vacant lot that looks ripe for “Law & Order: SVU.” But the bright Kabob Palace is less than two miles away. The tables are wonky and the place can get packed, but the kabobs and stews are massively satisfying. Want pancakes and table-service? Bob & Edith’s is a block further.
Silver
The Strathmore is another venue without much in sight beyond government health facilities and high-rises – if you want chow, go to Bethesda. Silver is the “brasserie” version of the popular local diner chain (i.e., gluten-free caramel French toast!). We also love the nightly 10 p.m. - close fivedollar happy hour (Moscow Mules and pancakes!). And there’s always Tastee Diner for the genuine grumpy-waitress, greasy-spoon experience.
Kabob Palace Open: 24/7 2315 S. Eads St. Arlington, VA; www.kabobpalaceusa.com
Silver Open: Sun.-Thurs. until midnight, Friday-Saturday until 2 a.m. 7150 Woodmont Ave. Bethesda, MD; www.eatsilver.com
Bob & Edith’s Diner Open: 24/7 539 23rd St. S, Arlington, VA; www.bobandedithsdiner.com
Tastee Diner Open: 24/7 7731 Woodmont Ave. Bethesda, MD; www.tasteediner.com
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Ivy City Smokehouse
Honestly, if you’re at Echo Stage in NE DC, you probably don’t want to stick around the neighborhood after your favorite DJ wraps up. But, if you do – Ivy City Smokehouse is near-ish, and has “Indian candy” (smoked salmon with honey) and fish and chips. Alternatively, if you leave the show early, Panda Gourmet has the best Szechuan in DC – don’t be put off by the seedy Days Inn where it’s located.
Ivy City Smokehouse Open: Tues.-Thurs. until midnight, Friday-Saturday until 1 a.m. 1356 Okie St. NE, DC; www.FB.com/IvyCitySmokehouse Panda Gourmet Open: until 11 p.m. daily 2700 New York Ave., NE, DC; 202-534-1620; www.FB/pandagourmetdc
Tastee Diner
Silver Spring gets quiet at night, but if you’ve been on your feet for hours at The Fillmore take a seat for the pupusas at Samantha’s (or anything off their delicious pan-Latin menu), or pancakes at the nearby Tastee Diner (with free wifi!).
Samantha’s Restaurant Open: Sun.-Thurs. until 10:30 p.m., Fri.-Sat. until 11:30 p.m. 631 University Blvd. E, Silver Spring, MD; www.samanthasrestaurante.com Tastee Diner Open: 24/7 8601 Cameron St. Silver Spring, MD; www.tasteediner.com
on the scene
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Dangerously Delicious Pies
Fast Gourmet
Not many other DC venues are better located for late-night eats. Step outside the sweaty confines of the Rock & Roll Hotel, and you’re steps from Dangerously Delicious Pies; we’re partial to the SMOG (steak, mushroom, onion, Gruyere).
“My favorite sandwich shop is up the street,” a friend of a friend told me once. “I’m not telling you anything else because you’ll write about it.” I figured it out anyway. When you exit the 9:30 Club or the Howard Theatre, go to the Fast Gourmet in the gas station on 14th and order the Cubano with a side of hot sauce.
Dangerously Delicious Pies Open: Sun.-Thurs. until midnight, Fri.-Sat. until 3:30 a.m. 1339 H St. NE, DC; www.dangerouspiesdc.com
Muncheez
Georgetown doesn’t lack in late-night noshes, thanks in large part to the student population. Spent the evening at Gypsy Sally’s? Go hang with the kids at Muncheez and eat Nutella crepes.
Muncheez Open: Sun.-Wed. until 2:30 a.m., Thurs. until 3:30 a.m., Fri.-Sat. until 4:30 a.m. 1071 Wisconsin Ave. NW, DC; www.muncheezdc.com
Fast Gourmet Open: Sunday until 10 p.m., Mon.-Wed. until 11 p.m., Thurs. until 2 a.m., Fri.-Sat. until 5 a.m. 1400 W St. NW, DC; www.fastgourmetdc.com
Amsterdam Falafelshop
If you didn’t eat during the show at IOTA Club & Café, the always-outstanding Amsterdam Falafelshop beckons. Or, hit up Silver Diner if you want table service and late-night breakfast.
Amsterdam Falafelshop Open: Sun.-Mon. until midnight, Tues.-Wed. until 2:30 a.m., Thurs.- Sat. until 3 a.m. 3024 Wilson Blvd. Arlington, VA; www.falafelshop.com Silver Diner Open: Sun.-Thurs. until 2 a.m., Fri.-Sat. until 4 a.m. 3200 Wilson Blvd. Arlington, VA; www.silverdiner.com
Flats 8300 celebrated Oktoberfest with German style brews and fare plus great live music and tours of the building. Photos: Mark Van BerGh
www.ontaponline.com | NOVEMBER 2016 | ON TAP
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The Bierdo “Lets Get Beer’d!”
Lost in Middleburg:
By Nick Hardt
The Bierdo finds Mt. Defiance.
Photo: Mt. Defiance Cidery and Distillery
Ever since I was a little kid, I’ve had an aversion to fruit. Whether sneaking it to the dog under the table, hiding it in potted plants or stuffing it into my OshKosh B’gosh pockets when I was made to sit at the table “until I ate all of the fruit on my plate,” I was clearly not a fan. As I grew older I matured, but my taste buds did not. Even when it’s been reformulated for adult consumption into cider. I love beer, but most of the American cider I’ve tried is too sweet and, for lack of a better word, too fruity. Yes, “Picky Nicky” was a steadfast beer guy—until a trip out to Middleburg, VA opened my eyes to the possibilities of the pomme (that’s French for apple). After a brewery trip to nearby Ocelot (great IPAs) and Quattro Goomba (farm beer, pizza and wine slushies) a friend of mine said “hey let’s stop in here!” Who was I to resist, especially after beers and wine slushies. From there the rest is history, even the pony rides afterward. Tucked away in historic Loudoun County, Mt. Defiance Cidery and Distillery bridges the gap between beer and fruit with its handcrafted, eclectic small batch ciders—and let’s be honest, it didn’t hurt that they distill their own spirits too. This is a cidery that isn’t afraid to experiment or to pursue multiple trains of thought when it comes to defining what a cider should be. Owner Mark Chretien describes the range of approaches to cider making as “...traditional farm cideries where classic cider apples are pressed and the juice fully fermented with only yeast added, to the cutting edge cider makers who are influenced by the craft beer movement and infuse and co-ferment a riotous blend of new and historic natural flavors into their ciders.” At Mt. Defiance they offer a selection of both traditional farm cidery style ciders as well as more adventurous infused ciders. If you’re like me and fancy yourself a beer guy, think of them as the cider version of a brewery that lets you try unique scratch batches in the quest to open your mind and mouth to new worlds of flavor.
Mt. Defiance Cidery and Distillery: 207 W Washington St., Middleburg, VA; 540-687-8100; www.mtdefiance.com
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Farmhouse: Their flagship cider. Light and dry with a clean finish. Unsweetened and very food friendly! Ginger: Farmhouse cider with the addition of lots of fresh ginger. A great tangy ginger flavor. Old Volstead: Made with ale yeast. Dry and fruity, with the sweet and sour of a green apple. The Old Volstead has overtaken the Farmhouse in popularity recently. I agree. Hoppiness: Brand new hopped cider. Infused with fragrant Citra hops and lightly sweetened. Hops in cider?! I’m on board. Spice: Their fall spiced cider. Cinnamon, nutmeg and vanilla added to the Farmhouse cider for a great seasonal flavor (without the pumpkin!). Basically your go-to cider for the holidays. 5 Pepper: Five different kinds of fresh peppers infused in the Farmhouse cider. Super peppery aroma with a warm finish. I took a growler to go! Selections in rotation.
Have a beer for the Bierdo to try? Drop him a line at beer@ontaponline.com.
Along Came a Cider
By Eric Kozlic
W
hat does it mean to eat and drink like a Basque? Head over to ANXO (pronounced ahncho) at the corner of Florida Ave. and 3rd Street NW, and you’re sure to receive a delicious crash course. This new bar and cidery is the first of its kind in the District, and the team there is hard at work perfecting their local spin on a cultural cuisine that spans millennia. Anchored by executive chef Alex Vallcorba’s beautifully executed take on authentic Basque dishes and energized by the elegant and diverse cider, wine and beer offerings curated by beverage director Tim Prendergast, ANXO is quickly establishing itself as a favorite neighborhood gathering place for the residents of Truxton Circle. It’s surely a destination for foodies and cider hounds throughout the DMV. In late October, the cidery announced their beverages would be available in four DC Whole Foods stores. The venue is a spectacularly renovated, spacious row house, with a full dining room on the second floor, a bar on the first and ample seating on the patio. The decor is neo-rustic, highlighted by a 600-gallon chestnut cider cask that stands watch over the bar area. “Anxo” is a colloquial nickname for Basajaun, the mountainous Basque region’s version of Bigfoot, and there’s a reason why this mythical figure was chosen to represent the bar. According to director of operations Sam Fitz, Anxo “taught the Basques the skills they needed to civilize, most specifically iron-working, shepherding and agriculture.
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ON TAP | NOVEMBER 2016 | www.ontaponline.com
A Look at ANXO, D.C.’s First Pintxos Bar & Cidery
Photos Courtesy of ANXO
Our logo is a depiction of grass and earth that rural Basques twisted into the form of Basajaun in homage to him.” And if anyone ever asks you, “what does Pyrenean Bigfoot like to drink?” the answer is most definitely: cider. Interest in cider has been enjoying a recent surge nationwide, and ANXO is riding the curl of that wave. Their goal, according to Prendergast, is to “break down misconceptions about what cider is.” Like the Basque people, cider is elemental, convivial, and rooted deeply in a sense of place. Order a tasting flight at the bar, and one of ANXO’s friendly bartenders will take you through a flavor experience that morphs from “bright” to “structured,” to “fruit forward” to “rustic.” The beverage menu highlights numerous ciders from both the U.S. and abroad, including several excellent in-house collaborations with Millstone Cellars Cidery in Maryland. Not in it for the apple nectar? Order a glass of dry, refreshing Xiakoli (pronounced cha-ko-LEE), the signature wine of Basque country, or sip on some artisan vermouth, which is half-price on Saturday and Sunday. To make a good situation even better, thanks to the well-hopped and carefully malted professional backgrounds of several ANXO team members, the beer and cocktail options are also quite good. But if it’s a hankering for cider that brings you to ANXO, it’s the pintxos that will keep you coming back. Pintxos (pronounced PEEN-chos) are savory snacks normally
skewered on a toothpick or served up on a slice of hearty bread. Most have both a meat and a vegetable component and are meant to be eaten as finger food -- you can think of them as casual, mini-tapas. Pintxos tend to be rich and savory, and according to Prendergast, dry ciders are the perfect complement to the salty treats. In addition to these small bites, which run between $2$5, ANXO has a full selection of small plates and a “Cider House Menu,” which is the chef’s tasting menu for two, complete with cider. If Fitz had to choose one word to describe the food program at ANXO, he would call it “honest.” “I know that's not a flavor,” he explains, “but it's the common theme throughout Basque food. Respect the quality of the ingredients by letting them speak for the dish.” In the end, isn’t this what we want from our food and drink? A spot with flavors that are honest and good, and have stood the test of centuries. An atmosphere that inspires warmth, geniality, and eye contact. A space that can be lived in, and not simply passed through. To be sure, the lessons that Basajaun taught the ancient Basques may have faded into the dusky realm of legend, but we still have their flavors; that is surely something to celebrate.
ANXO Cidery & Pintxos Bar: 300 Florida Ave. NW, DC; 202-986-3795; www.anxodc.com
Where to go to become a
Cider Insider
cask ale f e s t i va l
Homestead 3911 Georgia Ave. NW, DC www.homesteaddc.com
Photo: Homestead
Located on Georgia Ave. NW in Petworth next to Qualia Coffee, Homestead is a great new destination for soul food and cider in D.C. Three of their 16 local (DMV) taps are dedicated to Virginia-sourced cider full-time, which means you’re guaranteed a great selection.
Saturday, November 5 12pm - 6pm in the Market Square
Celebrate Authentic Cask Ale! get tickets at www.madfoxbrewing.com
Millstone Cellars & Cidery
MAD FOX BREWING CO. 444 W. BROAD STREET FALLS CHURCH, VA 22046
(703) - 942 - 6840 madfoxbrewing.com @madfoxbrewing
2029 Monkton Rd. Monkton, MD www.millstonecellars.com
Photo: Millstone Cellars & Cidery
Located in Monkton, MD, Millstone Cellars and Cidery has been producing high-quality, handcrafted ciders since 2011. Take a trip to their tasting room and sample a diverse selection of ciders, meads, and “cysers” (cider-mead hybrids), or head over to Glen’s Garden Market in Dupont and grab a bottle.
Full Brunch/Lunch Menu Available Sunday 11:30-2:30 Limited Saturday Brunch this Month Saturday and Sunday Brunch
Challenge your friends to a game of triviA right at your table!
Potter’s Craft Cider www.potterscraftcider.com
Photo: Potter’s Craft Cider
Based in Free Union, VA (just outside of Charlottesville), Potter’s Craft Cider makes delicious, “aromatically intense” ciders without ever adding sugar or water. You can pick up a bottle of their cider at Wegmans and Whole Foods locations across the DMV. They’ll also be hitting the road soon in a converted Airstream that will serve as their mobile tasting room.
Green Dragon Pub at Bilbo Baggins 208 Queen St., Alexandria, VA 703-683-0300 | www.bilbobaggins.net
www.ontaponline.com | NOVEMBER 2016 | ON TAP
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By Trent Johnson
O
ne of my best friends in college never drank beer. When I say beer, I’m talking the entire spectrum of products — no crafts, no cheap 30 packs and certainly no crazy sours. He was a spirits and cider guy, specifically the latter. No matter the place we were drinking, no matter the specials scribbled on those bar chalkboards, he stuck to cider for nearly every occasion rendering future hangovers and hazy memories.
While this sounds like a criticism, the statement isn’t meant to poke fun or humiliate, as cider has become an immensely popular beverage. Whether it’s the gluten free nature of most ciders or the craft appeal of being able to visit local makers, cider is coming into its own. To understand what people in the DMV look for in a cider, we spoke with a few folks who are experts in the field.
“I’m not a big cider fan, but I usually enjoy the French ciders,” says Austin’s Austin EastCiders typically win the sales battle within the walls Steve Levan, Beer, Wine and Co. general manager. “Cidre Dupont is a of most stores. clean dry cider, and it’s not as sweet as some of the “Angry Orchard is a brand that can be found other ones.” on shelves across the country, and it’s extremely Julie Drews of Arlington’s The Brew Shop popular,” said Adam Kelinson of Craft Beer Cellar echoed the sentiments of Levan, suggesting beer DC. “At Craft Beer Cellar we find the nationally drinkers unfamiliar to cider may enjoy selections distributed brand Austin EastCiders to be one of with a weaker sugar threshold. our best sellers.” “I’m no expert in cider, but I’ve learned a ton Though all of our retailers have favorites, since opening the shop,” Drews says. “One I like is they’re always open for suggestions, as the from Argus, Ginger Perry, with ginger and pear. It’s representatives from each said people make one of the most well rounded ciders, a lot of ciders recommendations all the time, and some of those lack the mouth feel I want. They come across too fan picks become popular among other patrons. thin, but this drink has a crisp ginger on it that “Sonoma Cider was brought in on request, and makes it interesting.” they’ve done very well for us,” Drews says. “If Photo: www.potterscraftcider.com According to the retailers, Virginia ciders such it’s something we can get, we try and help our as Bold Rock, Potters and Wild Hare are immensely popular purchases customers. Every week we try and get new stuff in.” for their customers. The state has really taken the industry by storm, “We are always recommending new and interesting ciders to our producing some of the best tasting selections you can buy. cider fans,” Kelinson says. “We are always rotating our selection to keep “Virginia makes fantastic ciders, and more and more folks are getting things fresh.” interested in the old fashioned styles,” says Ian St. Germain, beverage So keep your eyes open and make sure to ask the clerk behind the buyer for Whole Foods Market in Vienna, VA. “Since many other counter, you may be in for a cider surprise. ciders are quite sweet, having a great selection of dry and delicious ciders is a wonderful option.” Beer, Wine and Co.: 7029 Wisconsin Ave., Chevy Chase, MD; When looking past the DMV, ciders from places such as Austin’s www.beerwineandco.com Argus Cidery, Boston’s Harpoon and Pennsylvania’s Jack’s Hard Cider came up frequently. International selections mentioned included the Craft Beer Cellar DC: 301 H St. NE, DC; www.craftbeercellar.com Italian cider Urbitarte and a French apple and pear cider produced by The Brew Shop: 2004 Wilson Blvd., Arlington, VA; www.altbrew.com Erik Bordelet. Whole Foods Market: 143 Maple Ave. E, Vienna, VA; However, big names such as Angry Orchard, Virginia’s Bold Rock and www.wholefoodsmarket.com/stores/vienna
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This crisp and refreshing cider mixes the sweetness of apples with a subtle dryness for a balanced cider taste. The fresh apple aroma and slightly sweet, ripe apple flavor make this cider hard to resist.
w w w. a n g r yo r c h a r d . c o m PLEASE DRINK RESPONSIBLY ©2016 ANGRY ORCHARD CIDER COMPANY, LLC, CINCINNATI, OH. LM25879
BEHIND THE BAR
By Monica Alford
Sometimes it’s fun to kick the carbonation, and go straight for the smooth stuff. Of course, we’re talking spirits, the more potent alternative to beer and cider, and a perfect choice for warming drinks as cold weather sets in.
Photos Courtesy of MurLarkey Distilled Spirits
Photos: Lindsay Galatro
Thomas Murray
Pia Carusone (pictured right)
On Tap: How did you first become involved in distilling? Thomas Murray: The idea of opening a distillery was my cousin and co-founder, Mike Larkin’s idea. As I wrote the business plan, I knew we were on to something that could be very successful and a lot of fun, and so MurLarkey was formed.
On Tap: Republic Restoratives is still brand new. How have things been going since you opened? Pia Carusone: Great! Every day is still a new day though. We’re still learning the ropes of the facility, the industry, the equipment, everything really.
OT: Why whiskey? TM: Whiskey in Irish is often called uisce beatha which translates to “Water of life”. There was never a doubt that we wanted to make whiskey. We use corn and barley to make our award winning Justice.
OT: I know you hold the title of largest crowd-funded distillery in the world; has the local community continued to support and embrace you? PC: We literally wouldn’t be here today if it weren’t for the early support that many of our friends, neighbors and local spirits enthusiasts offered us. The funds were critical but more than that, we’ve had the benefit of early support and excitement during a process that hasn’t been a breeze every day.
Founder and CEO, MurLarkey Distilled Spirits
OT: What is MurLarkey doing with whiskey that’s unique to other local distilleries? TM: We age our Cincerity cinnamon whiskey in merlot wine barrels and infuse it with 100 percent natural cinnamon sticks. For our Clemoncy lemon whiskey, we use chardonnay barrels and 100 percent natural lemon peel and lemon zest. OT: You offer more than whiskey though, tell us about Imagination. TM: At MurLarkey, we’re all about flavor and all-natural ingredients. OT: What is the tasting experience like at MurLarkey? TM: The tasting experience at MurLarkey is a blast. We enjoy hosting a wide cross section of people from varying demographics. OT: Are MurLarkey spirits carried at any bars/restaurants in or near the city? If so, can you name a few? TM: Yes! Our spirits are carried at a number of DC liquor stores and are served in many bars such as the famous Jack Rose Dining Saloon. In Virginia we are carried in more than 60 ABC stores and 70 restaurants from Fairfax to Virginia Beach.
MurLarkey Distilled Spirits: 7961 Gainsford Ct., Bristow, VA; www.murlarkey.com
Tom’s pick:
Cinnamúll made with Cincerity
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Owner, Republic Restoratives Distillery and Craft Cocktail Bar
OT: You started out making craft vodka at the distillery, correct? What inspired your spirit of choice? PC: We, like many start up distilleries, decided to offer a clear spirit before our whiskey releases start, which is soon. We’re pumped that people are digging CIVIC Vodka as much as we do. The price is very affordable for a local, craft spirit. OT: Word has it you’re now finishing a six-year Kentucky bourbon in white wine casks and a younger-sourced rye. What led you to this bourbon in particular? PC: We did a lot of testing, sampling, asking questions etc. And when this delicious bourbon became available, we knew it was the one. OT: Will you be making your own bourbon soon? Selling it? PC: We make it all the time. We’ll sell it when it’s ready. Probably about 18 months from now. Depends on how it does in our puncheon barrels.
Republic Restoratives Distillery and Craft Cocktail Bar: 1369 New York Ave. NE, DC; www.republicrestoratives.com
Pia’s pick: CIVIC Vodka
on the scene
For more photos From these And other events, visit the online gAllery At www.ontaponline.com.
Said Haddad
Photos: Lindsay Galatro
General Manager of Kitchen and Bar, District Distilling Co. On Tap: District Distilling just released its first batch of spirits since opening in August . What was your involvement in this process? Said Haddad: While the distilling process is artfully managed by our phenomenal head distiller Matt Strickland, our team all contributes to the process in different ways. OT: Most local distilleries seem to choose a spirit or two to focus on. What prompted your team to release a vodka, gin, rum and bourbon? SH: Our distilling process, both creatively and productively commenced long before our opening. All of our released spirits speak to our distillers’ personal passion. OT: What are some of the defining characteristics of your spirits? SH: Simplicity and strength are the words I’d personally use. Our distiller has created the spirits line-up with an interesting paradox of historical storytelling via old world methodology with a creative use of ingredients. OT: Do you have a favorite of the four? If so, what sets it apart? SH: Buzzard Point is my personal favorite. The complexity of the panela sugar gives it a wonderful old world handmade quality that makes a baller daiquiri. OT: Can you walk me through a few cocktails served at District Distilling that will feature these in-house spirits? SH: El Floridita takes my love of the daiquiri and unapologetically puts Buzzard Point front and center in this adaptation with grapefruit and maraschino liqueur as well as the traditional fresh lime juice. Quid Pro Quo takes the Boulevardier, the whiskey lovers Negroni, and takes it for a ride around the city. It is tart and earthy with hints of baker’s chocolate, and our Backroom Bourbon shines through with grace. OT: What drew you to working at a distillery-meets-restaurant/ bar, and what are you enjoying most about the experience? SH: It doesn’t take much to remind myself everyday how lucky I am. We’re aiming our sights back at the beautiful prep kitchen where distillery, bar and kitchen meet and we can brainstorm and test and play with some really out there ideas.
District Distilling Co.: 1414 U St. NW, DC; www.district-distilling.com
Gordon Biersch in Tysons Corner hosted an Oktoberfest sampling for On Tap readers complete with tasty brews and house-made snacks. PhOTOs: Mark raker
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On Tap | NovemBER 2016 | www.ontaponline.com
Said’s pick: Buzzard Point
MOONSHINE RISING IN THE DMV By Jake Emen
M
oonshine is on the upswing across the area, and whether you know it as “shine,” “white lightning” or “hooch,” there are myriad ways to fill up your mason jar and take a swig. But wait a minute, isn’t moonshine illegal? Doesn’t it make you go blind? Let’s get down to the hard truth before exploring all the ways you can get your shine fix across the DMV.
What In The World Is Moonshine? Defining moonshine is tricky business. That's because moonshine equates to illegality. There's no getting around that basic point. Yet, legal distilleries producing legal spirits are selling products they call moonshine, which means that they're legally selling what they're calling an illegal product. Confused yet? If you aren't, you probably should be. There's no help to be had from the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB), either. They don't define "moonshine" because it's technically illegal, so there's nothing to regulate. As such, what we're dealing with is a group of legal products made in the spirit of an original illegal spirit. What? The best way to make sense of this is to understand that when produced legally today, moonshine serves as an ungoverned nickname. This nickname most commonly refers to un-aged potdistilled whiskey, typically made from corn. However, other grains are also used in conjunction with corn, or in place of corn, plus sugar and flavorings are both commonly added. Illegal moonshine can also be made with 100% sugar recipes, and has been distilled in everything from legit pot stills to bathtubs, and anything else in between. Belmont Farm has their own line of moonshines, and also produces Tim Smith's Climax Moonshine, the legal product now made for one of the formerly illegal operations represented on Discovery Channel's Moonshiners television show. For the distillery’s Charles Miller, moonshine is un-aged or "fresh" whiskey made from corn.
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Photo: Dapper Design & Photography
"There's no federal regulation that defines moonshine," he reminds us. "So we kind of go with what the old timers did. Basically corn was abundant, corn was cheap. So they made it out of corn. The sugar got added later when they tried to get more volume out of it. It's either all corn, some added rye, some added barley." Another key point is how the traditional corn whiskey is made–it must be distilled in a pot still. "To me, if it's not made in a pot still, how could it be moonshine?" Miller wonders. "Some guys are using column stills and that's not going to give you the flavor and the taste of what was originally the illegal product made in the United States," Miller continues. "Moonshine goes way back, it has a heck of a history. The first, if you want to call it 'moonshine', batch of corn whiskey made in the United States was made at the Jamestown colony 400 years ago." Even though it's legal, un-aged corn whiskey made in this fashion and harkening back to those traditions, is what moonshine is all about. "We're just doing old time recipes, using old time ways, like they've been doing in Virginia for 400 years," he says.
Swiggin’ Some White Lightning Now that we have our facts straight, what's the best way to do some firsthand exploration? On November 22, the first Virginia Moonshine Festival is being held in Richmond. Expect plenty of moonshine on hand, along with craft beer, wine, food and music. You'll be able to sample through a range of flavors from different producers and hopefully provide yourself with some clarification on this whole messy subject. Aside from the festival, hitting the roads to visit some of the region's local distilleries is your best bet. Staying in Richmond, there's Belle Isle Craft Spirits, and they produce a number of moonshines, including flavors such as cold brew coffee, ruby red grapefruit and honey habanero.
on the scene
For more photos From these And other events, visit the online gAllery At www.ontaponline.com.
Ben Lyon of Lyon Distilling
Photo: Jake Emen
Miller's Belmont Farm is closer to DC, located in Culpeper, Virginia. In addition to his core Virginia Lightening recipe, he also makes flavors including apple pie, butterscotch, cherry and peach. For a trek, head to southeastern Virginia's Appalachian Mountain Spirits and their Virginia Sweetwater Distillery. Here, they produce Virginia Sweetwater Moonshine, as well as a high-proof version and an apple pie rendition. Staying local, head to St. Michaels, Maryland and visit Lyon Distilling. They don't market “moonshine," but their New Make Corn Whiskey is basically the same thing, as outlined in our definitions above.
And don't worry. It won’t make you blind. Appalachian Mountain Spirits: 112 E. Main St., Marion, VA; www.virginianwhiskeys.com Products also available online at www.pstreetwines.com. Belle Isle Distillery: 615 Maury St., Richmond, VA; www.belleislecraftspirits.com Products available at - Batch 13: 1724 14th St. NW, DC; S&R Wine and Liquor: 1015 18th St. NW, DC; and various other DC stores, as well as numerous Virginia ABC locations. Belmont Farm Distillery: 13490 Cedar Run Rd., Culpeper, VA; www.belmontfarmdistillery.com Products available online at www.pstreetwines.com. Lyon Distilling: 605 S. Talbot St., St. Michaels, MD; www.lyondistilling.com Products available at – 1 West Dupont Wines & Spirits: 2012 P St. NW, DC; D’Vines: 3103 14th St. NW, DC; and at other DC stores, as well as numerous Maryland locations. Also available online at www.pstreetwines.com.
Guests at the DC Scotch Walk enjoyed an awesome day of entertainment and excellent Scotch whisky from eight of DC’s leading bars. PhotoS: Mark raker
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F
2016
Distillery Guide
arm-to-table, craft beer, local vineyards. It’s only natural that distilling is seeing a rebirth of locally owned, locally operated options. Distilling has a long history in our country, most of it legal, some of it not. But we would venture to say that at no time has the quality, variety and accessibility of locally produced spirits been better. From bucolic farms that put new meaning behind the expression grain-to-glass, to trail blazing independents who are helping reclaim parts of our city that have been yearning for attention, distilleries are more than just a drinking spot, they’re a vibrant part of our community dynamic. In the pages that follow are a dozen local options for stopping, sipping and sharing in their story. Visit them and enjoy.
Belmont Farm Distillery 13490 Cedar Run Rd., Culpeper, VA 540-825-3207 www.belmontfarmdistillery.com
A. Smith Bowman Distillery
Flagships: Virginia Lightning Corn Whiskey and our Kopper Kettle Virginia Whiskey.
1 Bowman Dr., Fredericksburg, VA 540-373-4555 | www.asmithbowman.com
Awards: Kopper Kettle Silver Award, Virginia Lightning first place and Virginia Lightning Apple Pie second place at ADI.
Flagships: Bowman Brothers Small Batch Bourbon, John J. Bowman Single Barrel Bourbon, George Bowman Rum, Deep Run Vodka and Sunset Hills Gin. Abraham Bowman Limited Edition Whiskey and the A. Smith Bowman Experimental Series.
What to Expect: Until 30 years ago, whiskey for popular consumption had been made in column stills, handling thousands of gallons per hour. Only at our family owned and operated Belmont Farm, our whiskey is produced in a genuine solid copper pot still like our forefathers in the hills of VA. While others may be flooding the market, our pot still whiskey is slow and handled with care, to preserve all of the aroma and taste of a fine fresh whiskey. Our copper pot still is truly the secret of our whiskey!
Awards: From the World Whiskies Award - World’s Best Bourbon 2016 for the Abraham Bowman Limited Edition – Port Finished Bourbon. John J. Bowman Single Barrel received 93 points from the Beverage Tasting Institute 2016. What to Expect: Located just a few miles off I-95, is the historic A. Smith Bowman Distillery. With roots dating back to the repeal of Prohibition, Abram Smith Bowman and his sons relocated to Virginia, continuing a family tradition with the distillation of exceptional bourbon whiskey. As a small and family owned company, A. Smith Bowman Distillery continues the time-honored traditions on which it was founded, by producing an assortment of hand-crafted spirits distilled from only the finest natural ingredients. This micro-distillery focuses on the production of premium bourbon and other spirits, honoring the pioneering legacy of Virginia’s first settlers. Hours: Complimentary tours depart on the hour Monday –Saturday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Gift shop remains open until 5 p.m.
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Hours: We close for the season on the second Saturday in December, but are open for tastings and tours again after the first Saturday in April Tuesday through Saturday 11-4p.m. (closed Monday, Sunday and Holidays). Tours are every 20 minutes starting on the top of the hour. (Last tour will start 20 minutes before closing).
Blackwater Distilling 184 Log Canoe Circle, Stevensville, MD 443-249-3123 | www.blackwaterdistilling.com Flagships: Picaroon Maryland Rum, Sloop Betty Handcrafted Vodka. Awards: Sloop Betty: 3 Gold Medals including Best Vodka (New York World Wine & Spirits Competition). Picaroon Gold: Silver Medal Picaroon White: Bronze Medal and Picaroon Overproof: Silver Medal (NYWWSC) What to Expect: Located an hour from DC just across the Bay Bridge, Blackwater Distilling™, is Maryland’s premiere and most awarded craft distillery. Join us for an approximately 45 minute tour and tasting to learn all about the art and science behind our rums, vodkas, and small batch whiskies. Hours: $5 tours and tastings seven days a week 12-5 p.m. on the hour, last one at 4 p.m. No appointments needed. Contact info@blackwaterdistilling. com to set up a group tour outside of regular hours. Use code ONTAP for a 50 percent discount off your group reservation. Follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/blackwaterdistilling, on Instagram at @ blackwaterspirits, and on Twitter at @BlackwaterTM.
Catoctin Creek Distillery 120 W. Main St., Purcellville, VA 540-751-8404 | www.catoctincreek.com Flagships: Roundstone Rye, Watershed Gin and Mosby’s Spirit. Awards: Over 23 medals for our spirits (6 Gold!) and 21 company medals and awards. For more, visit www.catoctincreek.com and choose awards under the “About Us” tab. What to Expect: Enjoy Catoctin’s intimate location in a beautifully restored historic building, where you can get a free tour of our operations and enjoy flights of whisky, brandy, and cocktails. Founded in 2009 as the first legal distillery in Loudoun County since before Prohibition, we are located in beautiful Purcellville, Virginia, in the heart of the Loudoun Valley. At Catoctin Creek, we believe in high quality food and spirits. Organic means higher quality: grain and fruit, sourced locally when possible, free of pesticides and chemical additives that would come through in the spirits we produce. Sure, it is more difficult to produce organically, but the results speak for themselves. Tasting Room Hours: Open Tuesday through Thursday 1 - 5 p.m., Friday 1 - 7 p.m., Saturday 12 - 7 p.m. and Sunday 1 - 6 p.m. Tours are free and conducted at five minutes past the hour. We still encourage you to make a reservation. www.ontaponline.com | NovemBER 2016 | On Tap
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Copper Fox Distillery 901 Capitol Landing Road, Williamsburg, VA | 757-903-2076 9 River Lane, Sperryville, VA 22740 | 540-987-8554 www.copperfox.biz
Jos. A. Magnus & Co.
Flagships: Wasmund’s Single Malt Whisky, Copper Fox Rye Whisky, Vir Gin, and Limited Edition “Blue Top” Whiskies.
2052 West Virginia Ave. NE #202, DC 202-450-3518 | www.josephmagnus.com
Awards: Wasmund’s Single Malt Whisky 94.5 points, Jim Murray’s 2015 Whisky Bible and named best Virginia distilled spirit by Playboy 2015. Copper Fox Rye Whisky BTI Gold Medal 94 points and 2016 Virginia Living “Best of Virginia” award.
Flagships: Joseph Magnus Bourbon,Vigilant Gin and Royal Seal Vodka.
What to Expect: Visit our newest location and experience how founder and Master Distiller Rick Wasmund is transforming the former Lord Paget motel complex in Virginia’s Historic Triangle. At Copper Fox we dedicate ourselves to making great American spirits through a combination of innovation and tradition. We start from scratch, floor malting our locally grown barley, then dry and flavor the grain with apple and cherry wood smoke and age with hand toasted wood chips in used bourbon barrels. Hours: Free tours are offered on the half hour: Mon. -Sat. 10a.m.-6p.m., Sun. 1-6p.m. Tastings and products are available for purchase at both of our locations. Seasonal cocktails available in Williamsburg. We will be closed on 11/24, 12/25 and 1/1/2017.
What to Expect: Joseph Magnus was a significant pre-prohibition bourbon and gin distiller, blender and rectifier who founded his company in 1892, and his great grandson reopened the distillery with help of a whiskey and gin “dream team” to bring this pre-prohibition heritage to DC. The team includes Dave Scheurich, former Woodford Reserve Distiller and Whiskey Advocate Life Time Achievement Award Winner, Nancy “The Nose” Fraley, Director of Research for American Distilling Institute and the nation’s top whiskey blender, Richard Wolf, former Chairman of the Kentucky Distillers Association and VP General Manager at Buffalo Trace and Nicole Hassoun, 2014 Washington Post Bartender of the Year and founder of custom tonic company Chronic Tonic. Hours: Visit our Murray Hill Club Cocktail Lounge for custom bourbon, gin and vodka cocktails Wed.-Thurs. 4-10pm, Friday 4pm-Midnight, Saturday Noon-Midnight and Sunday 11am-7pm. Free tours Saturday and Sunday.
KO Distilling 10381 Central Park Dr., Suite 105, Manassas, VA 571-292-1115 | www.kodistilling.com Flagships: Battle Standard 142 Gins (Navy Strength, Standard Strength, Barrel Finished), Virginia Moon White Whiskey, and Bare Knuckle American Wheat Whiskey, a wheat whiskey aged for 1 year. Small batch rye whiskey and bourbon aging in barrels on-site. Awards: 2016 MicroLiquor Awards Competition -- Battle Standard 142 Gin (Barrel Finished): Gold Medal. 2016 New York World Wine & Spirits Competition -- Battle Standard 142 Gin (Barrel Finished): Silver Medal. 2016 Beverage Testing Institute (BTI) -- Virginia Moon White Whiskey: Silver Medal (89 score). 2016 American Craft Spirits Association (ACSA) Competition -- Virginia Moon White Whiskey: Silver Medal. 2015 New York International Spirits Competition -- Moonshine Distillery of the Year. 20152016 Five Bronze Medals What to Expect: Located in the historic City of Manassas, our 12,000 sq ft facility has a state-of-the-art distilling plant featuring a 550-gallon copper pot still, 4,000 sq ft for oak barrel storage and a top-notch copper and oakthemed 2,500 sq ft visitors center for guided tours, tastings, product sales and special events. Hours: We are open to the public: Thurs 1-6 p.m.; Fri 1-7 p.m.; Sat 12-7 p.m.; and Sun 1-6 p.m. Also available by appointment. Come on by, it’ll be worth the visit!
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Mt. Defiance Cidery & Distillery 207 W. Washington St., Middleburg, VA 540-687-8100 | www.mtdefiance.com Flagships: Mt. Defiance rum (white, amber and dark), Absinthe, Apple Brandy, and Liqueurs (cassis, amaretto, and almond). What to Expect: Located in lovely Middleburg, Virginia, Mt. Defiance Distillery focuses on the revival of classic spirits that have their roots in both Colonial America and Europe. Visitors can sample and purchase hard cider and spirits, including flights of rum cocktails (weekends only) and absinthe prepared in the traditional fashion using our six-spout absinthe fountain. We also sell a full line of absinthe accouterments; spoons, glasses, carafes and fountains. Hours: 12 p.m.-6 p.m. Tuesday – Sunday, closed Mondays.
New Columbia Distillers 1832 Fenwick St. NE, DC 202-733-1710 | www.greenhatgin.com Flagships: Green Hat Gin, Green Hat Spring/Summer Gin, Green Hat Fall/Winter Gin (“Ginavit”), Green Hat Navy Strength Gin, New Columbia Summer Cup, Capitoline White, Rose and Dry Vermouths. Awards: Gold Medal (SF World Spirits Competition) for Spring/Summer Gin; Silver Medal (Intl Review of Spirits) for Green Hat Gin; Silver Medal (American Craft Spirits Assn) for Fall/Winter Gin; Best of Category (American Distilling Inst.) Navy Strength Gin. What to Expect: A working industrial vibe with vinyl playing and handmade cocktails on offer. No charge for tastings or tours. Friendly and relaxed. Hours: Saturdays 1 - 4 p.m.
One Eight Distilling 1135 Okie St. NE, DC 202-636-ONE8 | www.oneeightdistilling.com Flagships: Rock Creek Rye and White Whiskeys, Ivy City Gin and Ivy City Barreled Gin, District Made Vodka and the Untitled series of small batch spirits. What to Expect: Representing the nation’s capital with sophisticated, hand-crafted spirits served from an industrial-chic tasting room. The winner of multiple medals, One Eight Distilling is the only distillery in DC making vodka from grain to glass and the first to distill and bottle a whiskey in DC since Prohibition. The distillery is also available to rent for private functions and events. Hours: Open to the public for tours and tastings on Saturdays from 1-8 p.m. and by private appointment.
Twin Valley Distillers 711 E Gude Dr., Rockville, MD 240-421-1115 | www.twinvalleydistillers.com Flagships: Seneca Bay white rum, Seneca Bay rum (aged), Norbeck vodka, Twin Valley distillers bourbon, Twin valley corn whiskey (gluten free) and Twin Valley distillers clear whiskey.
Springfield Manor Winery & Distillery 11836 Auburn Rd., Thurmont, MD 301-271-0099 | www.springfieldmanor.com Flagships: Springfield Manor Brandy, Patriot Rum, Grappa, Lavender Gin, Bourbon, Maryland rye whiskey, Caramel corn whiskey What to Expect: Beautiful family operated 135 acre historic estate. Our Country Inn hosts weddings, events, overnight stays and much more! Winery and Distillery located in restored bank barn. Our beautiful Bavarian Still crafts spirits onsite and our tasting room features beautiful terraces, intimate indoor seating and a large rustic chic event space for up to 150 guests. Come visit today! Hours: Come join us Thursday through Sunday from noon to 6 p.m., with additional hours for special events.
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What to Expect: In two words...MARYLAND AUTHENTIC. We are truly YOUR local distillery. Founder Edgardo Zuniga, after living in Montgomery County for over 10 years felt compelled “to keep the business in his local area.” Using the culinary “farm to table” concept, Twin Valley Distillers partners with local businesses and farmers in sourcing all grain and raw products within a 50 mile radius. Grains are recycled back to local farms for animal feed. Our mission is to restore Maryland’s liquor making legacy one bottle at a time. To date, we have produced the first bourbon to be made from start to finish in Maryland. If high quality, fine taste and exclusive spirits are what you seek, then we have the answer in our products!! Hours: Hours for tasting are Thursday and Friday 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday noon to 5 p.m. We also offer private classes on the production and distillation of alcohol and on opening and operating a micro distillery.
In the Mix
By Marcus K. Dowling Regarding his retro-fitted progressive tastes, Paul realizes that “when [he plays] a DJ night, people are already confused that I’m not playing Top 40, but once they get into the mindset of hearing rare and oftentimes unreleased vinyl records, they end up dancing and having a good time.” If you’re looking for a modern analogy for what Vivari plays, it’s not-to-be-found in the likes of the Uptown Funk tandem of Bruno Mars and Mark Ronson.
...when you get a couple of people in there really moving, they feed off of each other, and a party gets started every time.
Spinning
Retro
with Soul Call Paul Photo: Soul Call Paul
known about on a “It’s a
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or DC vinyl record and classic rhythm and blues aficionado Soul Call Paul, aka Paul Vivari, the allure of playing the music he does is as much about spinning a classic from Otis Redding or Booker T and the MGs or little Motown b-side, as it is just hearing the sound of a record sound system. sound thing for me. Vinyl’s always
On Tap | NovemBER 2016 | www.ontaponline.com
sounded warmer; there are higher highs and lower lows. The bass is punishing, the drums are louder, the records were made to be played out,” Paul says. “I’ve never really DJ’d with CDs or anything like that. It always made sense to DJ with vinyl.” When he’s behind the decks, he uses his sound in a very specific way, style and has a nightly expectation. “I like deeper cuts, you know, the ‘tough stuff.’ Motown songs by Geno Parks, Etta James’ cover of [Sonny and Cher’s] I Got You Babe, or drum-heavy early 60s ‘exotica’ records, things like that.”
“I like what Brooklyn’s Daptone Records is doing. Artists like Sharon Jones and Charles Bradley are amazing, and the equipment they use to make those records is actual gear from the 60s, so, that’s great. However, is it as good as the records that were actually made in the 60s? Not necessarily. But, for people who may want to discover some of the artists and records I’m playing, they provide an excellent outlet to do so.” Intimate settings serve Paul’s nichemarketed DJ sounds well, hence U Street corridor space Velvet Lounge is immediately named as his favorite place to spin. He believes it to be “one of the last spots on U Street that I can still go to. I’ve DJ’ed there for almost 10 years.” Noting a strong sonic similarity to many Top 40 pop songs, he says, [t]here’s like, 40 others bars in the radius [of Velvet Lounge] that are playing variations of the same stuff. However, Velvet’s just big enough that when you get a couple of people in there really moving, they feed off of each other, and a party gets started every time.” Regarding his work, Vivari, as always, is intrigued by the art of getting people to dance, yet still to the point in his delivery. “Dancing’s dancing,” he says. “It’s sort of what it’s always been, and some things never change. As much as people like a sure mainstream and current pop thing, sometimes they really want to enjoy something different.”
Follow Soul Call Paul on Twitter @soulcallpaul
s e i t r a P e c n a D TING
A DC’S PULS
Photo: Daybreaker
By Bridey Heing
DC is a city known for working hard, but when it’s time to unwind, we know how to cut loose. Some of the District’s most long-lasting and beloved local haunts are part of the music scene, both here and nationally -- even Gilmore Girls knew the 9:30 Club was worth its weight in punk cred. So where can you go to get your groove on after a long week? We’ve got a round-up of DC’s finest, most eclectic and best dance parties to help you let your hair down late into the night.
For a Retro Good Time
For a Night of Soul
For a Latin Party
Feeling nostalgic for days gone by? Public Bar in Dupont now offers Throwback Thursdays, decades themed parties on the rooftop. And if you’re stuck in the 80s, keep an eye on 80s Dance Party DC on Facebook - although not on a regularly scheduled night, they offer epic themed holiday parties and surprise gigs. COLORS DC: R&B Only is exactly what the name says: a regular dance night at Howard Theater with its fair share of classic R&B. The vibe is high energy and fun, but don’t expect the party to start before 11 p.m. . If you can make it, you might be rewarded with a surprise appearance; Mýa recently performed for the partygoers.
Soul is a favorite on the dance scene in DC, with a lot of local spots offering new and classic soul on a regular basis. Head to Bloomingdale’s Showtime for guest DJs and sets from owner SoulCall Paul, with some boogie thrown in for good measure. Haydee’s in Mount Pleasant has a bit of everything, but their TNT DJ nights feature some of the best soul, reggae and funk for late night partying. Monthly Fatback at Liv in the U Street Corridor is another destination for a great night of fun soul tunes.
If samba or salsa is more your beat, we’ve got a few places you can get your dancing itch scratched. Cafe Citron in Dupont Circle has a bit of everything, including classes and dance nights for fans of Bachata, Kizomba and Cuban tunes among others. U Street’s basement hangout Tropicalia is a popular spot for Latin, soul and Afropop. The most unexpected, perhaps, is Lucky Strike Bowling at Gallery Place, where Sundays are salsa night. Warm up with a few games of bowling for your evening of late night dancing.
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**Mondays - Neighborhood Night** (Happy Hour til 9pm!)
For a Bit of Everything Most venues in DC don’t stick tightly to one genre or another, although a lot of them have a specialty or two. If you’re looking for a venue with a lot to offer throughout the year, we’ve got those, too. The Black Cat on 14th St. NW is a perfect example -- what don’t they do? It’s a dancing smorgasbord, with regular DJ nights, local punk bands and themed parties for everything from decades to holidays. If you like it, chances are the Black Cat has it. If being on the cutting edge is of interest, Liberation Dance Party at DC9 can help you get the skinny on the next big thing. This regular party has been held for over 12 years, highlighting up-and-coming local bands. Velvet Lounge in U Street has a dive vibe complete with cheap drinks and a bathroom decked out in band stickers, but you’ll find everything from niche themed nights to emerging bands at their late night dance parties. Newcomer Songbyrd Cafe & Music House is an Adams Morgan hot spot for DJ nights and live shows. Although some have a cover (and VIP ticket option), others are free.
**Tuesday Night Trivia** **Open Mic Every Wednesday**
**Thursdays - Ladies Night on Stage**
**Steelers Sundays**
Live Music Wed. - Sat. T&H is the place that reminds you of home! We are also a full service events and catering company so let us bring the fun to you! 567 23rd St S, Arlington, VA 22202 | (703) 979-1872 info@tortoiseandharebar.com
YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD BAR & GRILL
November Entertainment
For Anything Else
Photo: Daybreaker
Looking for something more niche, off the beaten path, or otherwise out there? Here you go! Traveling dance party MIXTAPE (a monthly queer party with indie and pop) is always on the move, so keep an eye on their Twitter @MIXTAPEdc. Another moving party goes in the opposite direction: Silent Dance Society is often at the Embassy Row Hotel in Dupont Circle, but they host events around the city. Bring your headphones and rock out in the most polite get down in the city, where non-participants can’t hear a sound. If secretive is more your speed, Cafe Saint Ex on 14th St. NW has a basement made for dancing the night away, and Flash has a secret photo booth entrance to their dance space. Mount Pleasant’s Marx Cafe has a monthly “Belgian beer-fueled post-punk DJ night” that has been spinning post-punk, krautrock, Britpop and other niche tunes for a decade. And last but not least, for the early risers, Daybreaker is an early morning dance party that runs from 6-9 a.m.. Why run or do yoga when you can get your morning workout in with dance?
BEST BRUNCH IN ARLINGTON! Saturday and Sunday
ROOFTOP TIKI BAR Open Daily
11/3 ....... DJ Jenesis 11/4 ....... The Reflex 11/5 ....... White Ford Bronco 11/10 .... DJ Lingo 11/11 .... Lovely Rita 11/12 .... Odeon 11/17 .... DJ 2Nutz 11/18 .... Thunder Buddies 11/19 .... For The Win 11/23 .... DJ’s Pork & Beans 11/25 .... Dj Cabezon 11/26 .... JerX
weather permitting
2854 Wilson Blvd.
703-276-WOWE (9693) Clarendon Metro Stop (Orange Line)
whitlows.com www.ontaponline.com | NOVEMBER 2016 | ON TAP
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TIGERS
ARE BAD FOR
HORSES Trent Johnson
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ON TAP | NOVEMBER 2016 | www.ontaponline.com
Photo: Tigers Are Bad For Horses
T
igers Are Bad For Horses sounds like it could be the title of a hardcore metal band. The predatory nature of one of jungle’s mainstays against the docile, meandering attitude of a horse seems like a mismatch in the plains, and it would likely be unbearable to watch if one of each species crossed paths. When Lyell Roeder, 25, and Mary Ellen Funke, 23, crossed paths however, it was a different story. In 2012, each was in a Georgetown University studio poking at music. Roeder was tinkering with a traditional rock sound, while Funke honed her folk vocals. But the latter was loud, and good, enough to catch the former’s attention. “I was recording a rock album, and I heard her, so I asked her to record some background vocals,” Roeder says. It was fun, I was in a folk project at the time and he was in a rock band, and it was fun to try different things and I was excited to do any musical project,” Funke says. Since then, the band has released numerous singles and an LP, blending their talents into a new sound. Inklings of their original musical projects are present, but subtle. Tigers Are Bad For Horses creates a soothing electronic tune coupled with feathery vocals; perfect for a stroll on the Georgetown waterfront, and perfect for the changing interests of its creators. “I think it’s different for both of us,” Roeder says. “Neither of us were making the music we were both interested in making. I think I maybe flirted with the production side, but not in a big enough way. So it got to the point where we wanted to start doing stuff that sounded more like Bon Iver... I invited her to make a song with me and it was cool, and then we sort of made one for real.” Founded in DC, the band has played the majority of their performances in the DMV area including stops at U St. Music Hall, Gypsy Sally’s and Jammin’ Java. Though the group is currently in Los Angeles, the duo reminisces enthusiastically about how the somewhat hidden music scene helped shape them, both in positive and negative experiences. The duo is currently scheduled for a Sofar Sounds show in DC on December 1. “It definitely started out at Georgetown when we were younger, but I remember my first experience with DC when I was in The Mellens and I was grateful we could go to college in a city where we could grow and expand musically,” Funke says. “The DC scene is mildly reflective of the Georgetown one, in that it’s small and supportive. When Tigers started we met so many people that were so grateful and they lifted us up. It’s growing every year, it’s changed.” Like their initial genre differences, their introductions to music are also radically different. Funke, who is from Chicago but bounced around, didn’t dabble with the art form until boarding school. There she says everyone experienced “musical independence,” leading her to eventually sing in front of people for the first time at 18-years old, only after hijacking her former roommate’s guitar and learning “Dust in the Wind.” For Roeder, who grew up outside of Boston, music was a
quintessential artifact of his upbringing. With an interest in jazz, rock and pop culture, he claims to have created terrible songs that will never see the light of day. This contrast allows both to bring personal experiences and touches to their songwriting, a process the duo is currently in the thick of in hopes to produce more singles in the new year. So far, Tigers has released only six official tracks due to time restrictions, but with the recent move to the West Coast, their focus and the allotted time for sitting down and scribbling lyrics has expanded. “Not too many songs are held back,” Funke says referring to potential unreleased tracks. “We were slow in the beginning because I was still in school and it was hard to find time. Other than that, we write a lot of beginnings to songs and we’re very deliberate. We’re not the kind of band to sit on tracks.” One reason for the meticulous Tigers’ release schedule is because of how truly collaborative Funke and Roeder remain throughout. Most songs start with an idea from one before undergoing a dynamic back and forth, which either expands on the original sound or changes it altogether. “It’s sort of anything and everything,” Funke says. “There’s such a very big variance for each song. Some of them I write and bring to him, and vice versa. It depends. I’d say the one constant is we’ll get a bone structure and build it and then we’ll completely rip it up and delete large sections. It’s totally nonlinear.” “[For example] Our song “Overflown” started as a beat I made five or six years ago,” Roeder says. “I thought it was kind of cool and it sort of became a totally different animal. I ripped out the whole beginning and I pushed it in multiple directions, and it sort of became what it is. I needed Mellen’s production and vocals.” Another topic of conversation for both is whether to record a full length LP.
The DC scene is mildly reflective of the Georgetown one, in that it’s small and supportive. “There’s no plan, but we definitely want to,” Funke says. “We debate about this a lot, it’s really hard because the nature of indie music trends toward shorter attention spans. It’s hard to take a year and write a whole album and it’s hard to gauge what people’s interest will be.” Regardless of what the future has in store for these ferocious musicians, whether an album or singles, Los Angeles or DC, the sound will continue to evolve and shapeshift, vacillating from the aggressiveness of a ferocious tiger and the free nature of a horse.
For more information about future shows and music, visit www.tigersarebadforhorses.com.
www.ontaponline.com | NOVEMBER 2016 | ON TAP
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. C . D
, T I E V I G GON
TO YA
ing Local, Now
n How We’re Liste
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By Courtney Sexton
This year has seen the much-lamented departure and/or imminent demise of some long-standing alternative performance spaces, notably the original Paperhaus, Above the Bayou, and Union Arts. Despite these losses, we’ve seen several individuals; businesses and smaller venues fill the gap, and then some. Beyond Studios, for example, has opened its back door in Blagden Alley more than once to let the music in (and out!) Songbyrd Music House and Record Café — which just celebrated its one-year anniversary — has quickly become the place to see and be seen.
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Mission-driven Blind Whino is reppin’ in SW, and Josh Cogan has merged sustainability and the arts with Sweet Magnolia Farms — a twinkle-lit backyard performance paradise. As DIY goes, the Scooby Doo Mansion stands strong in Mt. Pleasant; and, if you listen closely as you walk down the street, you’re likely to hear notes floating out of any number of basements and back alleys. Peter Lillis, who is Songbyrd’s Media Director, part of the team at Babe City Records, and a musician in his own right says, “I think there’s a relationship between the rise of DC music and house show culture. People want to eat locally, but they also want their punk band to come from down the
ton
Enter through the back: A resurgence of new, small and alternative venues
arrival. Turns out, local rock and rollers Wanted Man headlined the evening’s three acts. The setting couldn’t have been a more appropriate microcosm of the current state of music, performance and sonic artistry in the District – an internationally-recognized organization sponsoring killer local talent in a pop-up venue in an alley. For all of the changes the DC music scene has undergone since its revered post-punk heyday, one of the greatest aspects we’ve got going for us in 2016 is the variety and breadth of music that spreads throughout our capital city and beyond. Looking at the increase in opportunities for DC listeners and artists to connect in the past year alone, it’s hard not to be excited, and a little impressed by how far we’ve come.
Photo: Courtney Sex
he bricks of Blagden Alley glinted under a Hunter’s Moon as pairs and small groups of people - many carrying six packs of beer and cider — began to filter toward the back door of Beyond Studios. They filled back-alley space with a buzz of energy atypical for a Sunday night in the middle of downtown DC — they were waiting. Upstairs in a lofted photography studio-turned-performance venue for the evening, three bands were finishing sound check. On the next floor up another group of local musicians were hard at work laying tracks in a recording studio. The gig was a Sofar show — attendees didn’t know where they’d be going until that morning, or who they’d be seeing perform until
street. They identify with people in the community.” He sees the smaller venues playing a big role in the future of DC music. “People are gravitating toward rising above the DIY world, and are hungry to get to the next level.”
High Art Gets Low
Label It Indie
For a relatively small town, we’ve got no shortage of big festivals. The Kingman Island Bluegrass and Folk Festival and Fort Reno Concert Series are classics. There’s also Landmark, which landed ambitiously in West Potomac Park on the Mall in September 2015. Though it didn’t reappear this fall, the All Things Go Fall Classic did, bringing acts like Empires of the Sun, Passion Pit and Sylvan Esso to Yards Park. SXSL was the White House’s attempt at giving Texas a run for its money, while this year’s Art All Night theme of “Made in DC” had local acts playing well into the wee hours. And of course, in that ever-present spirit of DIY, In It Together Fest returned for a third year running to “celebrate underground art music and activism”. Like many other local musicians, bassist John “Scoops” (of Wanted
Man, Typefighter, Deadmen, Jauze, etc.) played several sets during the festival. For him, the biggest draw of InFest is coming together as an artistic community to “raise money and hopefully boost awareness for the nonprofits that are doing helpful things for people in the city.”
Did someone call Donna Summer? ’Cause we on the radio... … and TV! This year the much-hyped Live at 9:30 thrust DC’s most storied music venue into the televised spotlight with a musical variety show filmed at the club. Episodes are available for streaming and are aired on local PBS affiliates MPT2 and Howard University’s WHUT, with an eye on eventually landing a cable spot. But video didn’t kill the radio (or podcast) star. In Takoma Park, low power FM community radio station WOWD 94.3 came on air this summer broadcasting local voices and music of all genres to northwest DC and Prince George’s County. Further expanding the local net-waves is Goat Rodeo, a DC-based podcasting collective and audio network. Two of the Rodeo’s shows, Revivalism and Between the Liner Notes, are musicallyfocused, and co-founder and COO Carlisle Sargent says to be on the lookout for a new variety show premiering soon which will feature exclusively DC bands. “It's a really unique, surprisingly gritty, and worthwhile collection of musicians that seem to live around here, which I love.”
Photo: Maggie Famiglietti
Festival Frenzy
y Sexton Photo: Courtne
Though that hunger for getting “to the next level” may well be alive, DC musicians are getting there with a little help from their friends. While Dischord Records dominated the local label market for years (and certainly still holds weight), several other small and independent outfits and projects have also cropped up. Native DC musician and sound engineer Peter Larken owns and operates Lighthouse Recording Studio out of Del Ray, VA; Young Rapids, Foozle and The Sea Life are among the acts the babes over at Babe City support; and Sean Peoples is back on the scene with limitedrun cassettes and digital output via his new project Atlantic Rhythms. Raul Zahir De Leon, of the “multidisciplinary creative studio” Wilderness Bureau sums up the move (back) towards indie best: "Our studio has always been really influenced by the city's longstanding DIY ethic, and we've always strived to bring that energy and motivation to all of our work. Part of the impetus behind filming bands and artists was that we were really excited about being surrounded by so many people who were making amazing work, and we wanted to document and share that with as many people as possible.”
Finally, DC is famous for its plethora of high caliber museums, galleries, concert halls and performance spaces, from the Smithsonian to the Kennedy Center, the Phillips to the Kreeger. While those institutions play an important role in presenting and preserving culture, they do not traditionally cater to live (or local) and current art/music. But this is shifting. As larger cultural venues struggle to expand and retain new audiences, they too have gotten creative. For instance, Gourmet Symphony brings NSO-quality classical music tableside at local restaurants. Then there’s the Smithsonian American Art Museum's Luce Foundation Center for American Art, where a monthly music series, Luce Unplugged features all local acts and is free to attend. Hometown favorites Beauty Pill, Den-Mate, Paperhaus, BRNDA, Baby Bry Bry, Young Rapids, Fellow Creatures, Pree, Paint Branch and Near Northeast, to name a few, have all let loose among the gilded frames in the museum’s marbled main hall. And now that it has re-opened the East Building, the National Gallery of Art is taking a page out of Luce’s book with its new series: Evenings on the Edge. And what a page they picked — remember the time Grammy-nominated DC hip-hop artist Cristylez Bacon teamed up with cellist Wytold to kick off the series?
Clearly, the DC music scene is alive, evolving and thriving. Anyone who claims otherwise just isn’t listening.
www.ontaponline.com | NOVEMBER 2016 | ON TAP
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By Michael Coleman and Trent Johnson
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 2 Calm The Waters Calm The Waters, a four-piece alternative rock band from Fairfax, formed in late 2014 and released their first album less than a year later. Since the release, they have been steadily building their fan base and honing their dynamic live performances around DC, Northern Virginia and Richmond. Calm the Waters’ music could be characterized as a blend of alternative rock, poppunk, and emo sounds, coupled with somber and reflective lyricism. The group’s versatility makes them appealing and accessible to a wide swath of modern rock fans. Show at 8 p.m. $10 advance, $13 at the door. Jammin Java: 227 Maple Ave. East, Vienna, VA; www.jamminjava.com
Park, Maryland. The pop-soul singer now lives in New York City but is among the DMV area’s greatest musical exports of the past decade. Hutchinson’s polished upbeat tunes are relentlessly catchy, and the multi-instrumentalist can sing, play and perform with the best in the business. Over the past years, the 35 year-old musician changed management, stripped down his sound and embraced the mantle of producer, all the while spending months working on his fourth studio album, Easy Street. The accomplished record is a musical snapshot of perseverance and musical maturity brimming with superb melodies and contagious rhythms. His coming home show at the 9:30 Club should be something special. Doors open at 6 p.m. Tickets cost $25. 9:30 Club: 915 V St. NW, DC; www.930.com
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 3
Eric Hutchison Born in Washington DC, Eric Hutchinson grew up in Takoma
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DJ Lisa Frank A major skill requirement for being a successful DJ is timing, when you’re going to come in on a certain sound and cut out another. The music has to
ON TAP | NOVEMBER 2016 | www.ontaponline.com
flow from one track to another without skipping a beat, and there has to be a coherent direction your taking the audience. DC DJ Lisa Frank is adept at timing her ins and outs, as she routinely displays her firm grasp on music. With a focus on techno and house music, the sounds are sonic, and the waves are meant to be ridden by the audiences. Lisa Frank is definitely a DC DJ to watch. Show starts at 10:30 p.m. Tickets cost $30. Opening for Boys Noize. U Street Music Hall: 1115 U St. NW, DC; www.ustreetmusichall.com
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 4 Moonshine Society Though the name illustrates drunkadrs, the Moonshine Society is far from an unhinged group of alcoholics. The DC based group is an international sensation, bringing high energy tunes from genres including rock, blues and even old school R&B. The group has recorded with notable artists such as George Clinton, RZA and John Mayer. So if you’re looking to start your month off with a dose of lively, local tunes, check out
the moonshine society, perhaps after a shot of moonshine. Band plays from 10:30 p.m. - 1:30 a.m. in The Hamilton Loft Bar. Free to attend. The Hamilton: 600 14th St. NW, DC; www.thehamiltondc.com
Red Sammy and Some Charming Trespassers Adam Trice, a singer-songwriter from Maryland, performs under the name Red Sammy with a rotating cast of musicians ranging from a rock band to a four-piece string ensemble. Think Tom Waits meets Bob Dylan meets any number of accomplished country blues and folks acts. Red Sammy’s songs – poetic but rough-hewn - blend rock, folk, country and blues. Some Charming Trespassers is Trice’s latest ensemble which includes Sarah Kennedy (violin), John Decker (resonator), Julia Wen (Cello) and Becca Jane Edwards (background vocals). Show at 8:30 p.m. Tickets cost $8. Velvet Lounge: 915 U St. NW, DC; www.velvetloungedc. com
Java: 227 Maple Ave. E, Vienna, VA; www.jamminjava.com
We Were Black Clouds After a year of health issues, lawsuits, a record label collapse, and an addition to the live line-up, We Were Black Clouds (formerly just Black Clouds) is back in action with a comeback show scheduled for November 4 at the Rock & Roll Hotel. The DC-based all-instrumental hard rock band’s dark, brooding and complex sound is as nuanced and textured as it is powerful and energetic. Black Clouds first two albums, Everything Is Not Going To Be OK and Dreamcation drew influences from artists as diverse as Nine Inch Nails and Brian Eno. Band founder Justin Horenstein remains We Were Black Cloud’s driving creative force, and the addition of longtime friend and collaborator John Kneip for the live shows marks the band’s next evolutionary step. Show at 8 p.m. Tickets cost $15. Rock & Roll Hotel: 1353 H St. NE, DC; www.rockandrollhotel.com
The Rock-A-Sonics This band sounds exactly as their title suggests as they bring a fusion of country roots with a sort of 1950s delivery. From their outfits to their instruments, including a standing bass, this group delivers the sort of sound one expects to come from the speakers of an old timey diner, as they wait for their rootbeer float. Though the group defines themselves as rockabilly, the group brings a melody and slower pace to their shows, allowing you to either shimmy side to side, or even do the twist on the dance floor. Start time is at 8:30 p.m. Tickets cost $15. Opening for Big Sandy and His Fly-Rite Boys. IOTA Club & Cafe: 2832 Wilson Blvd. Arlington, VA; www.iotaclubandcafe.com
WED, NOV 9 + THU, NOV 10
FRI, NOV 11
SHEILA E.
CRISTINA PATO
SAT, NOV 26
NEWMYER FLYER
LAUREL CANYON: GOLDEN SONGS OF LOS ANGELES 1966-1972
SAT, NOV 12
WILLIE NILE INDIAN DANCE AND AMERICAN MUSIC POETRY IN MOTION SAT, NOV 19
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 5 Cargo & The Heavy Lifters With groovy guitar licks and bursting soulful lyrics, Cargo & The Heavy Lifters provide an exemplary look at what American music sounds like. With covers and originals, the group focuses on the old school aspects of blues, rock and even country. The booming voice of Randy McCargo make this group a must see, as his dynamic voice is a rarity in the modern scope of music. From the sound to their attire, this band is wonderfully old school, and as their website exclaims “awesome.” Doors open at 5:30 p.m., show starts at 7 p.m. Tickets cost $15-$20. Jammin
Shining Blade Theory Shining Blade Theory describe their music as “hip hop and funk with a dash of oomph.” It’s an apt characterization of this fourpiece, DC-based band that puts smooth hip-hop flow and lyrical sensibility front-and-center while adding some impressive organic instrumentation that also veers into rock, jazz and soul. Parabellum, the front-man, is a natural rapper, dropping witty rhymes one minute and philosophical musings the next. Shining Blade Theory’s upbeat, propulsive sound is guaranteed to get you moving. Show at 8 p.m. Tickets cost $10. Songbyrd: 2477 18th St. NW, DC; www.songbyrddc.com/
INTERNATIONAL GUITAR NIGHT FEATURING
LULO REINHARDT, LUCA STRICAGNOLI, CHRYSTIAN DOZZA AND DEBASHISH BHATTACHARYA
WE’RE ALL IN THIS ROOM TOGETHER
WED, MAR 22 THU, MAR 23 SAT, MAR 25 TWO SHOWS! SUN, MAR 26
THE BAD PLUS SAT, APR 1
OVER THE RHINE FRI, APR 7
WED, FEB 1 + THU, FEB 2
SOLAS
THE GAY MEN’S CHORUS OF WASHINGTON, DC PRESENTS:
THU, FEB 16 + FRI, FEB 17
LIVINGSTON TAYLOR REBECCA LOEBE
GOD SAVE THE QUEENS SAT, APR 15
TWO SHOWS!
TINARIWEN
THU, MAR 2
A BANDHOUSE GIGS TRIBUTE TO ELVIS COSTELLO SAT, MAR 11
THE SECOND CITY
WED, APR 19
JOHN McCUTCHEON THU, APR 20
AND MANY MORE!
1 6 3 5 T R A P R D, V I E N N A , VA 2 2 1 8 2 www.ontaponline.com | NovemBER 2016 | On Tap
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sehkraft brewing
Music Picks Hotel: 1353 H St. NE, DC; www.rockandrollhotel.com
WEEKLY SPECIALS MONDAY
½ OFF ½ OFF
growler fills butcher burger in the haus
TUESDAY
trivia ½ OFF
w/geeks 7pm who drink butcher cut steak in the haus
WEDNESDAY
eco-taco night in the haus
TUES - FRI
drafts ½ OFF select 11am-4pm
the sehkraft tailgate brunch party Every Sunday 11AM Tailgate Buffet served from 11am-4pm. Full NFL Package, games on the TV’s. Tailgate games to play. Greet Beer.
Tamika Love Jones If you’ve ever had the pleasure to hear to Tamika Love Jones, then you know she possesses a soothing voice, capable of making all of the relatable love stories sound beautiful. A DC native, Jones turned to music to escape some harsh realities of her surroundings. According to the Capital Fringe website, her classmates spurred her to pursue musical endeavors at the age of 11. Now she’s released two albums, and has performed at The Kennedy Center, Carter Baron and Constitution Hall, to name a few. With a focus on soul and funk, her music has a certain liveliness attached, providing a fun listen. Part of Fringe Music in the Library, the event is from 4-5 p.m. Free to attend. Southeast Neighborhood Library: 403 7th St. SE, DC; www.capitalfringe.org
Hangtown Two Former Washington Post nightlife writer Eric Brace – the longtime frontman for acclaimed Americana band Last Train Home - left D.C. for Nashville years ago. But the talented singersongwriter and collaborator Karl Straub, playing songs from their folk opera “Hangtown Dancehall,” along with tunes from their bands Last Train Home and The Graverobbers, make frequent returns to the DMV. Brace is a skilled tunesmith and ingratiating stage presence and he always seems to turn it up a notch for the hometown crowd. Last Train Home’s Christmas specials at IOTA Club & Cafe in Arlington are legendary. Show at 7:30 p.m. Tickets cost $15. Jammin Java: 227 Maple Ave. East, Vienna, VA; www.jamminjava.com
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 6
Paperhaus Paperhaus – the melodic indierock band based in DC’s Petworth neighborhood - has built up a significant regional following since their self-titled debut album, receiving buzz from NPR, USA Today, Washington Post and even Rolling Stone. These days, Paperhaus’ sounds is equally informed by Fela Kuti, the more electronic side of contemporary rock Deerhunter and Radiohead, and the band whose song they take their namesake from, CAN. The group has taken big strides in terms of songwriting, performance and production, but there remains a natural “sweaty basement” tinge that keeps their sound fresh and vital. Show at 8 p.m. Tickets cost $15. Rock & Roll
check out our on-site butcher shop LIVE MUSIC SCHEDULE A BlueGrass Thursday w/Gravel Road Bluesgrass LATO w/ Dana Parker Hand Painted Swinger NamaSehkraft YOGA & BEER W/SPECIAL GUEST DRUMINYASA (SOLD OUT!
NOV 3 NOV 4 NOV 5 NOV 7
NOVEMBER 8 THE OFFICIAL ARLINGTON COUNTY DEMOCRATIC COMMITTEE ELECTION RESULTS VIEWING PARTY NOV 9 NOV 10 NOV 11
Paul Carlson Studios Violin Recital Soul Stew The Dial Up’s
NOVEMBER 11 ”Stand Up for Vetrens” release party for the Dogfish Head “World Wide Stout” & “Siracusa Nera” only available at Dogfish Head & Sehkraft. 5pm NOV 12 NOV 14 NOV 16
MICHIGAN FOOTBALL 8pm Alumni welcome! OPEN MIC Malarkey (Irish Fiddle Music)
NOVEMBER 17 Bluegrass Thursday w/ Scott Slay & the Rail NOV 18 NOV 19
The Walkaways w/ Hayley Fahey. TBD
NOVEMBER 23 Thanksgiving Eve w/ The Cactus Liquors NOV 25 NOV 26 NOV 28
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Thanksgiving Hangover w/Jameson Green TBD OPEN MIC
The Fuss Founded in 2014, the Fuss is a nine piece part ska, part reggae band that has to crowd a little on the stage. The DC group features a number of unique sounding instruments including a trumpet, a trombone and a saxophone to name a few. The music is mellow and slow, but far from boring as the sounds meld together to form an enjoyable vibe. So if you’re in the mood for a band that is easy to sing along too, come see what the fuss is about. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. Tickets $12 in advance; $14 at the door. Opening for Bad Cop Bad Cop and The Interrupters. The Black Cat: 1811 14th St. NW, DC; www.blackcatdc.com
On Tap | NovemBER 2016 | www.ontaponline.com
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 10 The Janna Audey Band Though her vocals are soft and easy to absorb, make no mistake Janna Audey can really sing. Couple her powerful velvety chords with a background piano and well timed strums of an acoustic guitar, this band will definitely mellow you out. The group sounds like something of an opener for Woodstock, emitting a sound that free spirited folks around the world would enjoy to saunter about a festival to. Depending on the song, Janna Audey will either whisper into the microphone with sentimental words about change or even the ever evolving “Human Race.” From 7-9 p.m. Free to attend. FireFlies: 1501 Mount Vernon Ave. Alexandria, VA; www.firefliesdelray.com
Soul Stew Formed in 2015, Soul Stew is still relatively new to the DC music scene, but with the ages of members ranging from early 20s to “old enough to know better,” the group pieces together different experiences to form a smorgasbord of great, original soul music. While some local bands have a pension for blending various styles of music together, Soul Stew is happy to let you know that the only ingredient in their tunes is loads of soul. 8:30-11 p.m. Free to attend. Sehkraft Brewing: 925 N. Garfield St. Arlington, VA: www.sehkraftbrewing.com
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 11 Governess Who says parenthood is all minivans and suburban birthday parties? Certainly not the women of Governess, one of DC’s most potent up-and-coming new rock bands. The punky, surf-pop trio (drummer-vocalist Erin McCarley, guitarist Kim Weeks and Kieca Mahoney on bass) met through their kids, who had become friends at a local preschool. Instead of singing about anarchy and sticking it to the man, the DIY upstarts’ debut album contains tracks titled “Severance,” “Daytime” and “Control Top” - you know, the things that are on many working (or maybe not working) mothers’ minds. The early results are impressive. Doors open at 7 p.m. Tickets cost $12. Bathtub Republic: 251110th St. NE, DC; www.facebook.com/ bathtubrepublic
including saxophone, various drums and the organ. Doors open at 7 p.m., show at 9 p.m. Tickets are $13 in advance, $15 day of the show. Opening for The Hip Abduction. Gypsy Sally’s: 3401 K St. NW, DC; www.gypsysallys.com
OPEN MIC EVERY TUESDAY IN OUR VINYL LOUNGE
W E D N E S D AY, N O V 2
DIA DE LOS MUERTOS: GETTIN’ WEIR’D, BEGGARS TOMB
Mudlark Founded in 1972, Mudlark is DC’s resident off and on again band, as the group has continually produced rock and blues music for the past three decades, despite the occasional hiatus. When they are together, the speedy pace is undeniably enjoyable, including bright guitar riffs, and gravelly vocals. So even though they’ve enjoyed a few breaks along the way, Mudlark is still kicking and producing fantastic tunes for the blues fans in the area. 9 p.m. - 1 a.m. Free to attend. Two Nineteen Restaurant: 219 King St. Alexandria, VA; www.219restaurant.com
THURSDAY, NOV 3
YARN, CORB LUND (SOLO) FRIDAY, NOV 4
AMY HELM & THE HANDSOME STRANGERS SATURDAY, NOV 5
TOWN MOUNTAIN WEDNESDAY, NOV 9
BOND & BENTLEY, THE JAUNTEE THURSDAY, NOV 10
THE CALIFORNIA HONEYDROPS FRIDAY, NOV 11
HOOTS & HELLMOUTH SATURDAY, NOV 12
THE HIP ABDUCTION, ELIKEH SUNDAY, NOV 13
FRIDAY, NOV 18
Elikeh Elikeh, founded by Massama Dogo, is one of the most unique groups in the DMV, as the band uses Togolese rhythms as the foundation of their Afro-pop sound. This leads to unusual changes of pace, and enjoyable dance opportunities for patrons. The group still has a very American sound, but the subtle differences help it stand out when compared to other area bands, and Dogo’s style of singing is nearly inimitable. The band also features a number of instruments outside the spectrum of a four piece group,
American Television Hailing from the broad “DC area,” American Television is a classic punk band. Featuring a breakneck pace, heavy base line and speedy melodic lyrics, the band is essentially a representation of their namesake, as they are rapidly moving like an indecisive person flipping through the hundreds of channels. Another aspect of prototypical punk the band is faithful to, is the length of songs. Tracks rarely eclipse the three minute mark, making this show perfect for those with short attention spans seeking to jump around. Doors open at 7
THE REVEREND PEYTON’S BIG DAMN BAND, THE SUPERSUCKERS SATURDAY, NOV 19
NO BS! BRASS BAND SUNDAY, NOV 20
RUNAWAY GIN (PHISH TRIBUTE) WED-SUN, NOV 23,25,26,27
JOHN KADLECIK & THE DC MYSTERY CATS TUESDAY, NOV 29
November 12!
DON'T MISS
LA GUNS!
SESSION AMERICANA THE Z3 (ZAPPA TRIBUTE), THE NEXT STEP BAND
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 14
11/5 Just Push Play 11/11 Advanced Party Solutions
THURSDAY, NOV 17
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 12
11/4 Arcflash
GIRLS, GUNS, AND GLORY, KELSEY WALDON
Catch this high-energy, areana worthy band in an intimate setting!
11/18 As If 11/19 Under the Covers 11/23 Pre-Turkey Day DJ & Dancing 11/25 Here’s To The Night 11/26 The VIP’s 12/2 Doc Marten & the Flannels 12/3 Sub Radio 9811 WASHINGTON BLVD GAITHERSBURG, MD 20877 240.780.7139 UNIONJACKSRIO.COM
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Music Picks p.m., show at 8 p.m. Tickets are $20 in advance, $25 at the door. Opening for The Living Legend. Rock & Roll Hotel: 1353 H Street, NE, DC; www.rockandrollhotel.com
roll, plus a fiddle, the group is fun and exuberant. According to the website, the group is always striving to be itself, and the audiences can’t help but enjoy it. Show starts at 9 p.m. Free to attend. Samuel Beckett’s Irish Pub: The Village at Shirlington, 2800 S Randolph St. #110, Arlington, VA; www.samuelbecketts.com
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 16
holiday parties best at iOta
IOTA Club & Cafe
Exit Vehicles A four piece group hailing from DC, Exit Vehicles delivers their music in a very deliberate manner, almost easing into the songs. These slow build ups establish a certain anticipation for the eventual vocals, and oh does the patience pay off as singer Brian Easley captures attention with a deep indie sound. To go along with the music, the group focuses on topics such as space, technology and the combination of those and the government in NASA. The group doesn’t play often, so try to not miss this opportunity, because they’re exquisitely fascinating. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. Tickets cost $10. The Black Cat: 1811 14th St. NW, DC; www.blackcatdc.com
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FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 18 The Walkaways Using catchy country hooks, The Walkaways are one of DC’s must see country acts. Although defined as “altcountry” because of the use of pop, blues and rock, the group is still grounded in their country roots and have garnered props from The Washington Post, The Washingtonian and the Washington City Paper. Coming off their recent album Romance and Medicine, according to their website, The Walkaways are excited to be home “at the forefront of their local roots-rock scene.” 9 p.m. - midnight. Free to attend. Sehkraft Brewing: 925 N Garfield St. Arlington, VA; www.sehkraftbrewing.com
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f sa M Th sa sa 09 last train hOme sa 10 last train hOme su 11 mObley w/ catch fever
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TUESDAY IOTA JAM WEDNESDAY OPEN MIC 2832 WILSON BLVD ARL VA USA
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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 17 The 19th Street Band When perusing through music shows to possibly catch in the DMV, you’ll notice there are numerous types of genres to choose from, including some with foreign inspirations. The 19th Street Band is an example of a band with influences from across the pond. With rock and
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 19 Bobby Thompson and Revelator Hill When looking for a local guitarists with the chops to play riff after riff, without the fallback of lyrics, you can’t do much better than Bobby Thompson. The DC local flows from bridge to chorus with ease, rapidly moving his fingers
upon a six string. However, he also has a soulful voice, and his subtlety, almost talking style compliments the melodic beauty of the guitar, which is what sets him apart from a number of other soul bands in the area. Plus, he loves the area, often touring around Virginia, and even recorded a live album at the IOTA Club in 2015. Show starts at 8:30 p.m. Tickets cost $12. IOTA Club & Cafe: 2832 Wilson Blvd. Arlington, VA; www.iotaclubandcafe.com
Warm Sun With psychedelic guitar riffs and thoughtful lyrics, Warm Sun is a band that will brighten your day with mellow rock tunes. The four piece group hails from DC, and sounds like a vintage group from the 70s, with a modern twist. The band also uses pop and indie sensibilities, as their music contains catchy hooks and simple rhythmic cadences. Warm Sun can give it to you slow, or they can give it you fast, and continually offer up excellent songs that can be enjoyed anywhere by anyone. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., show starts at 7 p.m. Tickets cost $12. Opening for The Life and Times. DC9: 1940 9th St. NW, DC; www.dcnine.com
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 23 DJ Mathias A DC DJ, Mathias has established his mixes with an eclectic use of genres ranging from rap to UK garage. If you can’t pull away from the job in time to grab a plane or bus home for Thanksgiving, perhaps a dance party will
help, as Mathias is set to light the 9:30 Club ablaze, figuratively of course, at the club’s Twerksgiving via pulsating music meant to get everyone in the joint moving in advance of stuffing their gullets with turkey, cranberry sauce and other delicious treats. Doors open at 8 p.m. Tickets cost $12. 9:30 Club: 815 V St. NW, DC; www.930.com
John Kadlecik and the DC Cats In the pantheon on jam band musicians, John Kadlecik’s resume is impeccable. A co-founder of the criticallyacclaimed Dark Star Orchestra, renowned for their note-fornote covers of Grateful Dead sets, Kadlecik has jammed with a who’s who of the genre - Mike Gordon, Sam Bush, John Popper, Bill Kreutzmann, and the living godfather of jam, the Dead’s own Bob Weir. Kadlecik’s shows are freewheeling, sonically complex affairs. The multiinstrumentalist was born in Council Bluffs, Iowa but has long called the nation’s capital home. Show at 8. Tickets cost $30. Gypsy Sally’s: 3401 K St. NW, DC; www.gypsysallys.com
Rare Essence Rare Essence – the city’s most enduring Go-Go band - is the sound of native Washington, DC. Going on four decades now, Rare Essence has built a devoted fan base that spans multiple generations. The funky, furiously rhythmic outfit remains the city’s most popular and enduring Go-Go band. Formed by four students at a Southeast Washington Catholic school during the mid-70s, the band stayed on track and out www.ontaponline.com | NovemBER 2016 | On Tap
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Music Picks of trouble thanks to several no-nonsense moms. The band also happened to be mentored by the late Godfather of Go-Go, Chuck Brown. Based on a recent appearance at DC’s Funk Parade, Rare Essence hasn’t lost a step. Doors at 6 p.m. Tickets cost $20. Bethesda Blues & Jazz Supper Club: 7719 Wisconsin Ave. Bethesda, MD; www.bethesdabluesjazz.com
RDGLDGRN Hailing from Vienna, RDGLDGRN (pronounced Red Gold Green) is a poster boy band for the indiegogo genre. With rap, pop and gogo influences, the band’s music is upbeat and positive, and features a little bit for everybody. After gaining acclaim for their debut single “I Love Lamp” in 2011, the group released their self titled, sort of, LP, Red Gold Green, which subsequently features fellow Virginia native Dave Grohl on the drums for most of the tracks. Since, they’ve released a EP in 2015 and a single, “Karnival” this year. With all these smaller projects steadily adding up, it seems like RDGLDRGN has big plans for the future, and is worth seeing before loading up on Turkey the following day. Show starts at 7 p.m. Tickets cost $20. U Street Music Hall: 1115 U St. NW, DC; www.ustreetmusichall.com
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 26 Rachel Anne Morgan Claiming Baltimore and DC, Rachel Anne Morgan has become a fixture in the DMV music scene through various ventures spanning from
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several rock bands and solo performances. The singer/ songwriter also dabbles in acting and dancing, so there’s essentially no art-stone unturned by the talented local. Her music is aided by her versatility, as she often shifts between genres in order to put on a fully fledged show. While her song writing focus is primarily on the Baltimore based group Hop’t, that won’t stop Morgan from putting on yet another worthwhile show in DC. From 10:30 p.m. - 1:30 a.m. In The Hamilton Loft Bar. Free to attend. The Hamilton: 600 14th St. NW, DC; www.thehamiltondc.com
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 27 Scythian With a clear European flair, Scythian brings “immigrant rock” with tremendous energy. Even though the loud noises bring you in, the deft storytelling will keep your feet planted in front of the stage, only moving to dance. They even have a tremendous amount of cache in the industry, picking up praise from Ed Helms’ The Bluegrass Situation and Nashville Music City. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., show starts at 8 p.m. Tickets cost $20-$25. The Hamilton: 600 14th St. NW, DC; www.thehamiltondc.com
Shows s Review s photo re o m &
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on the scene
For more photos from these And other events, visit the online gallery at www.ontaponline.com.
Guests at the All Things Go Fall Classic Festival enjoyed a hand-picked selection of world class music and food experiences.
Photos: KGabrielle Photos
Fans at 9:30 Club enjoyed a night with Yonder Mountain String Band, as they continued to push the boundaries of bluegrass to create their own unique sound. Photos: Mark Raker
Saint Motel brought their striking visual presentations and dynamic indie rock to 9:30 Club in October.
Photos: KGabrielle Photo
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