e r e s h ! C
Drink. Dine. Do. 07.16
to
Independence
LIBERATING LIBATIONS BELGIAN BREWS, GIN RICKEYS & FRENCH WINES
FRIES VS. FRITES
BELGIAN EATS WITH CHEF ROBERT WIEDMAIER
TENNIS TOUR DE FORCE THE KASTLES’ MADISON BRENGLE CITI OPEN WITH GRIGOR DIMITROV DRINKS AT BAR DECO
HOT SHOWS DC’S YOUNG RAPIDS DEMI LOVATO & NICK JONAS YONDER MOUNTAIN STRING BAND
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Table of Contents July 2016: Vol 18 No 9
on our
Photography and design: On Tap’s Alanna Sheppard Venue: Bar Deco in Chinatown Subjects: Chimay Grande Réserve ale, Ivy City gin rickey and Trimbach Pinot Blanc
cover
cheers to independence
Cheers!
Drink. Dine. Do. 07.16
to
who is on tap
Independence
LIBERATING LIBATIONS BELGIAN BREWS, GIN RICKEYS & FRENCH WINES
FRIES VS. FRITES
BELGIAN EATS WITH CHEF ROBERT WIEDMAIER
TENNIS TOUR DE FORCE THE KASTLES’ MADISON BRENGLE CITI OPEN WITH GRIGOR DIMITROV DRINKS AT BAR DECO
HOT SHOWS DC’S YOUNG RAPIDS DEMI LOVATO & NICK JONAS YONDER MOUNTAIN STRING BAND
This month, we’re celebrating Independence Day in three nations: France, Belgium and of course, the U.S. Our July cover, shot at the all-American Bar Deco, features drinks from all three countries, LIBERATING LIBATIONS and our issue is full of articles paying homage to each nation. Read about local Belgian brews, Belgian Restaurant Week with Chef Robert Wiedmaier, French wine bar Bar à Vin, Rickey Month in DC and French fries from each country. Plus, check out our articles on Independence Day style, American bakery Whisked! and the patriotic Honor Brewing Company. Our writers caught up with Demi Lovato and Nick Jonas, Yonder Mountain String Band, and DC’s Young Rapids about their summer shows, and tennis stars Madison Brengle and Grigor Dimitrov about the Kastles’ season and this month’s Citi Open. So grab a glass of something cold and refreshing, and let’s raise a toast to independence!
In this Issue n Stage & Screen Cirque du Soleil’s KURIOS..................... 4 Stage & Screen Events........................... 6
n JuLY Roundup
24
30
Madison Brengle
Fries Three Ways
Crushing It with the Kastles
Belgian, French & American
Creating the Cover................................. 8 Independence Day Style..................... 10 Fun Facts................................................. 12 Drink, Dine, Do...................................... 14
n Sports Citi Open. . ............................................... 22 Washington Kastles.............................. 24
n Dining New, Notable, No Longer.................... 26 Three Approaches to Fries. . ................ 30 Chef Robert Wiedmaier....................... 32 Whisked!................................................. 34
32
38
Belgian Eats
Refreshing Rickeys
with Chef Robert Wiedmaier
Celebrate Rickey Month in DC
n Drinks Behind the Bar....................................... 36 Refreshing Rickeys. . .............................. 38 Belgian Beers......................................... 40 Honor Brewing...................................... 42 Bar à Vin.................................................. 44
n Music
40
50
Belgian Brews
Demi Lovato & Nick Jonas
Age-Old Beers in the DMV
From Camp Rock to Pop Rock
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On Tap | JULY 2016 | www.ontaponline.com
Young Rapids......................................... 46 Demi Lovato & Nick Jonas.................. 50 Yonder Mountain String Band........... 52 DJ Baby Alcatraz.. .................................. 54 Music Picks............................................. 56
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Nick Caracciolo KEY ACCOUNT MANAGER Tom Roth tom@ontaponline.com
Contributing Writers
Tess Ankeny, Alex Benedetto, Michael Coleman, Marcus K. Dowling, Jake Emen, Nick Hardt, Bridey Heing, Dory Jackson, Trent Johnson, Jon Kaplan, Vanessa Mallory Kotz, Keith Loria, Tammy Portnoy, Jean Schindler, Courtney Sexton and Chris Silva
Contributing Photographers
Tracy Conoboy, Kelcie Glass, Michelle Goldchain, Dan Nolan, Mark Raker, Alanna Sheppard and 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. Log on to www. ontaponline.com for more information.
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CATCH GREAT LIVE MUSIC Before Every Friday Home Game!
2016
BUDWEISER MUSIC SERIES 7/1
Party Like Its*
7/15 Darcy Dawn 7/22 Hand Painted Swinger 8/5 The Reflex 8/12 Jeff From Accounting AN
PRODUCTION
8/26 Sly 45
9/9 Lovely Rita 9/30 White Ford Bronco Music @ 4:30 | Game @ 7:05 *(music at 3:30, game at 6:05)
By Bridey Heing Performance photos: Martin Girard, shootstudio.ca Costumes: Philippe Guillotel
his month, Cirque du Soleil brings their latest production, KURIOS – Cabinet of Curiosities, to the DC area. Opening on July 21 at Tysons II, the production will be in town through mid-September. The steampunk show explores the curio cabinet of an inventor called The Seeker. His work defies the laws of time and space, reinventing the world into a mysterious and exciting new place where he finds inspiration. The DMV’s own Ryan Shinji Murray helped create one of the key parts of the performance, using a brand new technology called Acro Net. Murray, who grew up in Ashton, Md., had his sights set on Cirque du Soleil for a long time. In 2009, he sent in an acrobatic reel, and much to his surprise, he heard back right away. “They asked me to audition the next day,” he recalls. “It was amazing.” Although at the time he wasn’t offered a position with the company, he did hear back a couple of years later, when they were developing a new show.
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ON TAP | JULY 2016 | www.ontaponline.com
“I got a call from [Cirque du Soleil] asking me to work on this thing they had a really hard time describing: ‘It’s going to be a trampoline, but a trapeze net, and like Water World.’” Murray was sold, and took part in the nine-month creation process for KURIOS. Acro Net has been his focus for the show, using a net held in place by motors rather than bungees that allows for far more tension. It’s the first time something like this has been used in the circus. Murray likens it to jumping on a trampoline with multiple people and using the collective strength of the group to launch one person into the air. “Take that and have a bunch of professionals doing it on the most powerful piece of equipment that’s ever been built for that purpose,” he says. “It’s pretty extreme.” Acro Net isn’t the only thing that’s unique about KURIOS by Cirque du Soleil standards. Murray points out that, unlike past shows that feature mystical and magical creatures, humans are at the very heart of the story. “You see a lot more faces, and even when someone
on the scene
For more photos From these And other events, visit the online gAllery At www.ontaponline.com.
ji Murray Ryan Shin
Photos of
Ryan: Cour te
sy of Cirque du Soleil
wears a silly costume, you can see the person behind it,” he says. “It brings a much more personal feel to the show between the performer and audience. It’s a more intimate feel for the performers on the stage.” On top of excitement about performing in the show he helped create, Murray is thrilled to be back in the DC area. He’s spent much of the past several years on tour, making it difficult to spend time with friends and family. But being in the area for several months offers plenty of opportunities to catch up. “I’ll really have time to connect with a lot of people I grew up with and knew as a kid,” he says. “That’s really exciting to me.” Tickets to KURIOS – Cabinet of Curiosities start at $39.
Guests at the Modera Westside Grand Opening in Laurel, Md. listened to live music and enjoyed complimentary light fare, beer and wine from local favorites. Photos: KeLcie GLass
Lerner Town Square at Tysons II: 8025 Galleria Dr. Tysons, VA; www.cirquedusoleil.com/kurios
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5
on the scene
FOR MORE PHOTOS FROM THESE AND OTHER EVENTS, VISIT THE ONLINE GALLERY AT WWW.ONTAPONLINE.COM.
STAGE & SCREEN EVENTS By Keith Loria
FRIDAY, JULY 1 - SUNDAY, AUGUST 28 Born for This: The BeBe Winans Story The true story of musicians BeBe and CeCe Winans – the youngest members of the Winans family dynasty – is brought to life in Born for This: The BeBe Winans Story, a wonderful new musical now playing at Arena Stage. Written by Charles Randolph-Wright and six-time Grammy winner BeBe Winans, the story follows the pair of teens, evolving from television celebrities on Jim and Tammy Faye Bakker’s Praise the Lord to staples on gospel radio. Tickets start at $64. Arena Stage: 1101 6th St. SW, DC; www.arenastage.org
WEDNESDAYS, JULY 6-27 NoMa Summer Screen Movie buffs will want to head out to Storey Park on Wednesday nights in July for NoMa Summer Screen, a free outdoor film series. July offers Pee Wee’s Big Adventure on July 6; Life of Pi on July 13; O Brother, Where Art Thou? on July 20; and E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial on July 27. Events are free. Movies start at sunset and are screened with subtitles. Bring a blanket. Storey Park: 1005 1st St. NE, DC; www.nomabid.org/noma-summer-screen
THURSDAY, JULY 7 - SUNDAY, JULY 31 Blood, Sweat & Fears: A Grand Guignol Sick Cabaret Back in 2008, the Molotov Theatre Group presented three classic Grand Guignol stories. It was such a success that the production is being restaged from July 7-31 under the direction of Alex Zavistovich. The three plays take on “murder, sexual farce, mutilation and revenge,” with the “lascivious mistress of ceremonies, Bella Donna,” walking audiences through the night of horror. The show runs every Thursday through Sunday at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $25. DC Arts Center: 2438 18th St. NW, DC; www.dcartscenter.org
Guests enjoyed a free festival on the lawn in Park Potomac MD. The event featured a craft beer garden, food trucks, live music from Seven Deadlys, and a petting zoo for kids. PHOTOS: DAN NOLAN
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ON TAP | JULY 2016 | www.ontaponline.com
Capital Fringe Festival The 11th annual Capital Fringe Festival offers more than three weeks of non-stop theatre, dance, music, visual art and everything in between. “The standout genre of the 2016 Fringe Festival is musical theatre,” says Cap Fringe Founder Julianne Brienza. “Musicals are always fun to attend and see in small intimate venues. We have lots of shows to see and new folks to meet.” The Logan Fringe Arts Space will act as the festival’s hub, with free music at the Fringe Arts Bar, plus events will be hosted at other venues from the H Street Corridor to downtown. Times and ticket prices vary; check website for details. The Logan Fringe Arts Space: 1358 Florida Ave. NE, DC; www.capitalfringe.org
THURSDAY, JULY 7 - SUNDAY, AUGUST 7 Hand to God The hilarious – and sometimes blasphemous – Broadway favorite Hand to God heads to Studio Theatre, offering all of the craziness that comes from sock puppets talking about sex. Written by Robert Askins, the ruthless comedy follows one foul-mouthed puppet who rebels against his Christian ways. Tickets start at $20. Studio Theatre: 1501 14th St. NW, DC; www.studiotheatre.org
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WEDNESDAY, JULY 13 & WEDNESDAY, JULY 27 Jane Austen Film Festival The 5th annual Jane Austen Film Festival will take place at the Dumbarton House this summer, with two great classic movies in July. First, Emma is screened on July 13, and Pride & Prejudice follows two weeks later on July 27. Both movies begin at 7 p.m. Tickets are $6 per film. Dumbarton House: 2715 Q St. NW, DC; www.dumbartonhouse.org
FRIDAY, JULY 22
John Tsaknis DDS Jeannette Suh Maria Hodas DMD DDS
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Men are from Mars, Women are from Venus, Live! Whether you’re familiar with the book of the same name or not, the comedy show playing the Howard Theatre for one night only focuses on the strange relationships between men and women, presented through different vignettes. Topics will cover everything from dating and marriage to in the bedroom. The show starts as 7:30 p.m., and tickets range from $32.50-$50. Howard Theatre: 620 T St. NW, DC; www.thehowardtheatre.com
FRIDAY, JULY 22 - SATURDAY, JULY 23 Taylor Williamson Ever since first hitting the comedy stage as a teen in California, Taylor Williamson has delighted audiences with his unique take on comedy. He was a semi-finalist on NBC’s Last Comic Standing and finished second on America’s Got Talent last year. Catch him at 7:30 or 10 p.m. on Friday and 7 or 10 p.m. on Saturday. Tickets cost $20. Arlington Cinema & Drafthouse: 2903 Columbia Pike, Arlington, VA; www.arlingtondrafthouse.com
www.ontaponline.com | July 2016 | On Tap
7
and Trent Johnson Photos: Alanna Sheppa rd
On Tap’s Alanna Sheppard is the creative force behind our July cover, leading our photo shoot at Bar Deco in Chinatown and designing the finished product. We met with Director of Operations Jesse Maas and Beverage Director Michael Rovezzi, who have both been with the all-American dining and nightlife hotspot since it opened last fall across from the Verizon Center. Rovezzi made us an Ivy City gin rickey, and poured us glasses of Trimbach Pinot Blanc and Chimay Grande Réserve ale, completing our trifecta of nations celebrating their Independence Day this month. We loved exploring the four-story, Art Deco-inspired restaurant (a former printing press), complete with a giant smoker on the first floor and rooftop bar with a great view of downtown. Check out our interview with Rovezzi in this month’s Behind the Bar column on page 36, and learn more about Bar Deco at www.bardecodc.com.
Bar Deco’s Michael Rov ezzi and Jesse Maas
on the scene
For more photos From these And other events, visit the online gAllery At www.ontaponline.com
Guests at the On Tap Patio Party at Blackwall Hitch in Alexandria sipped their Corona Light beers on us and enjoyed complimentary appetizers. PHotos: ALAnnA sHePPArd
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On Tap | July 2016 | www.ontaponline.com
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With so many sizzling summer events coming up, dressing for both style and comfort can be a challenge. Whether you’re celebrating American independence on the 4th or French independence on the 14th (who doesn’t love a good Bastille Day party?), we’ve got advice from an expert. Sarah Phillips, co-founder of the lifestyle blog 52 Thursdays, recommends floral, denim and off-the-shoulder looks for your next barbecue or pool-side party. The popular lifestyle blog features Phillips, 32, and her co-founder Michelle Martin, 31, wearing the styles they love. Right now, it’s all about summer – from fashionable fitness apparel to casual nautical looks for a day on the water. In the photo to the left, Phillips sports an inexpensive floral dress from Forever 21 paired with a beautifully crafted Gucci leather handbag for an easy elegance with a touch of luxury. Phillips and Martin met at Radford University, where they both majored in fashion and pledged Sigma Kappa sorority. After graduating and moving to Northern Virginia, the pair worked together at BCBG Max Azria and French Connection. On Thursday nights, they’d meet up for wine and dream about starting a business. In 2015, the best friends launched 52 Thursdays, where they write about style, beauty, fitness and travel. Since Martin moved to Los Angeles last year, the business has become bi-coastal. “Starting your own business isn’t easy,” Phillips says, “especially one where you have to put yourself out there in the way that we do. But it is so rewarding to be able to do something that we both love – and we are able to share our experiences in [the] hopes that we might help others, too.” The blog is full of summer tips, like helping you pick a great bathing suit while also teaching you how to make a delightfully cool watermelon Moscow mule. And for Phillips, summer nights are always better with a cold beer – especially a hoppy IPA. “We usually head to K-1 to pick up our favorite beers and then enjoy them with friends on our back patio when we aren’t heading to the local breweries,” she says. “We love 3 Stars, Old Bust Head, Port City [and] Atlas.” So, for your Fourth of July barbecue, pack up your cooler and dress in something that is “cute, comfy and won’t make you sweat to death,” Phillips says. “You can even go with cut-off shorts and a great tee,” she recommends. “Wear these looks with espadrilles or a pair of high-top Chucks for a true all-American look.” Check out 52 Thursdays at www.fiftytwothursdays.us.
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On Tap | July 2016 | www.ontaponline.com
Photo: Emma Weiss Photography
By Vanessa Mallory Kotz
Photo: Taylor Cole Photography
Michelle Martin and Sarah Phillips rock sweet summer style
By Dory Jackson
Did You Know? Celebrating Independence with Fun Facts about:
France
1. Although the Eiffel To wer is one of the m ost iconic structures ev er built, France initia lly planned to dismantle an d sell the remaining parts as scrap.
2. In e, Franc to al g e l l it’s i a pig name on.” ole “Nap
eath 3. “Until d ” is not a do us part s t a is alway phrase th . ce n in Fra applicable the m o fr ission es With perm m ti e m so it is president, d a arry a de legal to m l. iv ind idua
Belgium
4. The w orld’s largest selling for cho p colate is oint Brussels Airport produc . Since Belgium es a litt le 200,00 0 tons p more than er year, that ch all of ocolate c be cons an’t possibly um Belgian ed by s alone .
5. Today, Belgium is one of the fe w countries th at requires man datory education u ntil age 18.
USA
7. Ame r did not icans us on a reg e forks ular ba sis until af ter the Civil Wa r. 8. Every day, Americans purchase and consume enough pizza to cover 100 acres.
10. In the 1993, ment epart t U.S. D lture spen u c e i l r of Ag 00 on pick to 0 t $277, in an effor ion h rs c e r v a rese healthier ckle l pi ea creat kosher dil ss le e h d t e f o clud n i t a th m. sodiu
9. I 1948 n , Geor Mayor ge Ph illips made for ci it illegal tiz smile ens not to in t of Po he town catel Idaho lo, .
Fun facts courtesy of the following articles:
6. Frenc h fries did not origina te in Fr ance. In the late 1600s, Belgian began s s licin potatoe g and frying s to use substit as a ute for fish dur the win ing te when fi r months shing w an optio asn’t n.
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ON TAP | JULY 2016 | www.ontaponline.com
#1-2: www.confessedtravelholic.com/2011/05/69-fun-factsabout-france-2.html #3: www.whatthafact.com/interesting-facts-about-france/ #4: www.cheeseweb.eu/2009/08/25-belgium/ #5: www.wonderfulwanderings.com/belgium-facts/ #6: www.wonderopolis.org/wonder/belgian-fries/ #7: www.funfunnyfacts.com/Fun-United-States-of-AmericaFacts.html #8: www.rd.com/culture/america-fascinating-facts/ #9: www.unrealfacts.com/illegal-not-to-smile-in-pocatelloidaho/ #10: http://articles.chicagotribune.com/1995-12-01/ news/9512010178_1_kosher-rabbis-dill; www.funfunnyfacts.com/Fun-United-States-of-America-Facts. html
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on the scene
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WEDNESDAY, JULY 6 Druminyasa & Draughts Summer Road Trip The Beer Yogis join forces with Druminyasa for a 60-minute, all-levels vinyasa flow with live drumming. Post practice, enjoy pints of fresh 3 Stars beers and the company of fellow yogis. Arrive a few minutes early to check in. Bring your yoga mat and any props or items (towels, water, etc.) for this event. 7 p.m. $25 fee includes practice and your first pint. 3 Stars Brewing: 6400 Chillum Pl. NW, DC; www.3starsbrewing.com
THURSDAY, JULY 7
Guests relaxed on the patio and sipped on summer beers at On Tap’s Summer Year of Beer party at Barrel & Bushel in Tysons Corner. PhOTOs: KelCie Glass
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On Tap 2016 || www.ontaponline.com www.ontaponline.com On Tap || June July 2016
Totally Tomatoes Cooking Demo Learn and taste new ways to prepare the undisputed star of the summer garden, the sun-ripened tomato. The event features guests Adrienne Cook, gardening and cooking writer, and Danielle Cook, nutritionist and cooking instructor, to
lead the demonstration and provide recipes. 12-12:45 p.m. Free. Conservatory Garden Court at U.S. Botanic Garden: 100 Maryland Ave. SW, DC; www.usbg.gov
THURSDAY, JULY 7 SUNDAY, JULY 31 Capital Fringe Festival Unique poetry, puppetry and wild dance performances! With countless performing groups, there’s bound to be something for everybody, from risk-taking art to untraditional acts. Event dates and times vary, and tickets are available at various venues. Logan Fringe Arts Space: 1358 Florida Ave. NE, DC; www. capitalfringe.org *All Drink, Dine, Do events are provided by the venues hosting them.
FRIDAY, JULY 8 Sip & Spice Enjoy a special date night at The Spice Suite’s Sip & Spice event. Indulge in a popcorn bar and create your own spiced popcorn flavor to munch on while you sip spiced sangria and create. Listen to music, play some fun games and create the beginnings of some culinary magic. Each guest will receive everything needed: flavored sugar, spiced rice in a jar and a spice blend. 6-7:30 p.m. $45. The Spice Suite: 6902 4th St. NW, DC; www.thespicesuite.com Sub-Radio at Penn Social Celebrate the great history of Americana, rock and the classics. Plus, play games, have fun, and, come the witching hour, start dancing with Sub Radio. 9-11 p.m. Free admission. Penn Social: 801 E St. NW, DC; www.pennsocialdc.com Truckeroo Food Truck Festival Enjoy tons of food trucks, tons of live music, and of course, tasty beverages. Admission is free, so truck on down to the Capitol Riverfront and use the
HAPPY HOUR FRIDAY, JULY 8 FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 9 Friday Night Concert Series in Yards Park The summer comes alive at Yards Park on Friday nights. Blankets are spread, picnics unpacked and the crowd settles in for a great night of live music on the waterfront. Each season’s lineup brings a diverse mix of music ranging from classic Motown (Jimi Smooth) to roots Americana (19th Street Band.) Music is from 6:30-8:30 p.m., but arrive early to get a good spot because the shows are popular. New this year, the stage will be on the Great Lawn portion of the park, and outside alcohol is no longer allowed. Fear not, a beer and wine bar is located onsite. The concerts are free and run through September 9. Yards Park: 355 Water St. SE, DC; www.capitolriverfront.org hashtag #truckeroo2016 to post your photos. 11 a.m. - 11 p.m. Free admission. Half Street Fairgrounds: 1299 Half St. SE, DC; www.fairgroundsdc.com
FRIDAY, JULY 8 FRIDAY, JULY 22 Park Potomac Concert Series Don’t miss great live music from 7 Deadlies on July 8, Justin Trawick on July 15 and Darcy Dawn on July 22, plus a craft beer garden each week. Participating breweries include Olivers, Flying Dog, Heavy Seas, Du Claw, 7 Locks, Milkhouse and Jailbreak. All proceeds from the beer garden go to the Rockville Volunteer Fire Department. 6-8 p.m. Concerts are free; beer garden admission is $10. Park Potomac: 12505 Park Potomac Ave. Potomac, MD; www.parkpotomacmusic.com
Monday - Friday, 4-7pm $5 local drafts, select wines
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FRIDAY, JULY 8 SUNDAY, JULY 10 Microbrew Hockey Fest Cool off this summer with hockey and beer at this special hockey tournament. Teams from all over the area will be competing. Enjoy beers from local breweries including Bad Wolf, DC Brau, Fair Winds, Growling Bear, Heritage, KO Distilling, Old Ox and many more. 6-11 p.m. Admission to watch the games is free; however, donations to benefit Law Enforcement United are welcome. Prince William Ice Center: 5180 Dale Blvd. Woodbridge, VA; www.pwice.com
Summer Dining AND ENTERTAINMENT SPECIAL EVENTS LIVE JAZZ EVERY TUESDAY AND THURSDAY NIGHT!
Stay CONNECTED: www.ontaponline.com | JULY 2016 | ON TAP
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Drink | Dine | Do FRIDAY, JULY 8 FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 30
NEW
T H I S Y E A R!
and
Sunday, September 18 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Capitol Riverfront www.dclovesdcanimals.org
Benefit concert for MCPAW with recording artists
Shenandoah Run July 9 | 8 PM at AMP by Strathmore
A portion of ticket sales will be donated to MCPAW
Get VIP treatment for booking groups of 10 or more! Call Julia Allal at 301-581-5199 VIP details and tickets at ampbystrathmore.com Band details and videos at ShenandoahRun.com
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On Tap | July 2016 | www.ontaponline.com
mcpaw.org
Budweiser Music Series at Nats Park For every Friday home game, the best place to pregame is at the Budweiser Terrace inside the ballpark. Enjoy cold Bud and Bud Light, and hot tunes from the city’s best cover bands including White Ford Bronco, Party Like Its, Jeff from Accounting and Dr. FU. Nationals Park: 1500 S Capitol St. SE, DC; www.washington. nationals.mlb.com
SATURDAY, JULY 9 All-American Beer Festival Celebrate America with unlimited tastings of America’s finest beers. Rock your red, white and blue and enjoy unlimited beer samplings of America’s finest beers, unlimited full pour stations, all-American food trucks, live entertainment and more. Session one is from 1-4 p.m. and session two is from 7-10 p.m. $35. The Bullpen at Half Street Fairgrounds: 1201 Half St. SE, DC; www. allamericanbeerfest.com French Festival Indulge your inner Francophile with the 18th-century French amusements in celebration of Bastille Day and Marjorie Merriweather Post’s French decorative arts collection. Enjoy a festive atmosphere by making and wearing a French bergère or Napoleon hat, watch the French court come to life in a short play performed by Happenstance Theater, experience baroque dance with New York Baroque Dance Company, relax with a glass of wine or baguette at the Parisian-style sidewalk café, and more. 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. $18. Hillwood Estates: 4155 Linnean Ave. NW, DC; www.hillwoodmuseum.org
Port City Old Town Pub Crawl This is an open-house-type crawl, meaning you’ll enjoy food and drink specials and can visit participating bars and restaurants in any order. The reward for visiting all of the stops will be a limited-edition pint glass. You will have until 5:30 p.m. to get your pass punched by a PCBC staffer at O’Connell’s, Virtue Feed & Grain, Pizzeria Paradiso, Union Street Public House, Fish Market, Chadwick’s, Bugsy’s and Blackwall Hitch. Bring your completed pass to Union Street Public House from 5:30-6 p.m. to pick up your limited-edition pint glass from PCBC staffers. Arrive at any participating venue between 2-3 p.m. to receive your pass. 2-6 p.m. No registration, tickets or purchase necessary to participate. Port City Old Town Pub Crawl: Various locations around Old Town Alexandria; www.portcitybrewing.com
TUESDAY, JULY 12 Ocelot Brewing & Bluejacket Tasting Enjoy the long-awaited Ocelot Brewing Company and Bluejacket collaboration at this reservations-only tasting. This special tasting is hosted by Ocelot founder, Adrien Widman, and head brewer, Mike McCarthy, as well as beer director, Greg Engert. Expect pours from five of Ocelot’s beers, including the CitraSimcoe-Centennial Double IPA collaboration, “Raised on Promises.” Chef Zachary Ridenhour will serve small bites. Call 703-224-5051 or email slaters@rusticorestaurant.com to reserve a seat. 6:30-8:30 p.m. $35. Rustico Alexandria: 827 Slaters Ln. Alexandria, VA; www.rusticorestaurant.com
Serve respnsibly.™ Modelo Especial® Beer. Imported by Crown Imports, Chicago, IL
on the scene
Drink | Dine | Do
For more photos From these And other events, visit the online gAllery At www.ontaponline.com.
THURSDAY, JULY 14
WEDNESDAY, JULY 13 Beer Tasting at Gryphon Beer aficionados, this one’s for you. Enjoy 10 different types of featured beers, including an IPA, pale ale, lager, amber, gouze, stout, porter and more. Also enjoy beer education by top-notch experts from the industry while socializing and mingling with like-minded beer lovers throughout the evening. 6-9 p.m. $35-$55. The Gryphon: 1337 Connecticut Ave. NW, DC; www.thegryphondc.com
THURSDAY, JULY 14
Guests enjoyed two days of vendors, live entertainment on three stages, the Family Fun Zone and the Wine ‘n’ Dine area at the Taste of Reston. Photos: Mark Van BerGh
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On Tap || June July 2016 | www.ontaponline.com On Tap
Bastille Day Party Join the fun as the Flats 8300 in Bethesda celebrates Bastille Day. Along with receiving an opportunity to tour the new stunning apartments, attendees will also enjoy French specialties, favorites and complimentary beer and wine from area restaurants. RSVP at www. RSVPFlats8300.com. 6-8 p.m. Free admission. Flats 8300: 8300 Wisconsin Ave. Bethesda, MD; www.RSVPFlats8300.com
Tap Takeover: Evolution Craft Brewing Now that it’s summer, enjoy beer from breweries around Maryland, a state that is all about good beer, crab-picking and summertime fun on the water. Instead of traveling to experience Maryland’s great craft beer offerings, enjoy them in DC. 7 p.m. Free. Mad Fox Taproom: 2218 Wisconsin Ave. NW, DC; www.madfoxbrewing.com
THURSDAY, JULY 14 THURSDAY, AUGUST 25 Rock at the Row Hot bands and cold beer return to Pentagon Row for the annual Rock the Row series. Each week, a different band takes the stage and a different craft brewery is featured in the VIP lounge. Bands include Kristin and the Noise, Gonzo’s Nose, The Rockets and White Ford Bronco. The VIP lounge will host Virginia craft brewers Devils Backbone, South Street, Mad Fox and others, plus a rotating restaurant partner. 7-9 p.m. Admission to the concerts is free, admission to the VIP lounge is $10 and all proceeds are donated to Stop Child Abuse Now of Northern Virginia. Pentagon Row: 1101 S. Joyce St. Arlington, VA; www.pentagonrow.com
FRIDAY, JULY 15 Bastille Day 2016: Taste of Bordeaux Enjoy a gala celebration of music and dancing along with a grand feast featuring the finest
gathering of traditional French and nouveau cuisine restaurants in DC. Also, don’t miss the opportunity to taste Bordeaux wines, and delicacies prepared by exceptional restaurants, chefs and pastry shops. Finally, dance the night away to celebrate the birth of French democracy and the longstanding friendship between the U.S. and France. 6:30 p.m. - 12 a.m. $90-$150. Maison Francaise - Embassy of France: 4101 Reservoir Rd. NW, DC; www.ambafrance-us.org
bands kick off and begin to fill the farm with great music. Enjoy jam, reggae, rock, bluegrass, indie and more on two stages by the river. Unlike any other festival, Doah allows you direct access to the Shenandoah River. Jump in, cool off and relax. Festival runs Friday through Monday. $35-$65. Doah Fest: 1920 S. Page Valley Rd. Luray, VA; www.doahfest.com
will feature wineries, breweries, food, live music and artisans. An entry ticket includes a wine glass and tasting tickets. 3-8 p.m. Tickets start at $10. Fireman’s Field: 250 S. Nursery Ave. Purcellville, VA; www. purcellvillewineandfood.com
SUNDAY, JULY 17
FRIDAY, JULY 15 MONDAY, JULY 18 Doah Fest Doah Fest is a four-day celebration held on a private farm between the banks of the Shenandoah River and the Blue Ridge Mountains. Doah is more than just a music festival. It is a chance to unplug and connect, to share positivity and happiness with a community of beautiful and optimistic people. Starting Friday afternoon, the
SATURDAY, JULY 16 Purcellville Wine & Food Festival The Purcellville Wine & Food Festival showcases amazing wines, foods and other fineries from purveyors located in and around Purcellville and Loudoun County. The event
bourbons, listening to live music and working on your tan. Your ticket includes a limited edition tasting glass, two drink tickets and fun summer swag. 12-7 p.m. on July 16, 12-5 p.m. on July 17. $15-$50. Tysons Corner Center Plaza: 7901 Tysons One Pl. Tysons Corner, VA; www.tysonscornercenter.com
SATURDAY, JULY 16 SUNDAY, JULY 17 Barrel & Bushel’s Annual Virginia Craft Beer Festival This event is bringing together more than 50 regional breweries showcasing the season’s best brews. Spend the afternoon meeting the brewers, tasting delicious handcrafted food, sampling the industry’s best
Beads & Bubbly Create a one-of-a-kind piece of jewelry while sipping your favorite beverage, socializing with friends and enjoying a fun, creative atmosphere. Each event ticket includes a complimentary glass of champagne, materials and tools to make the piece. 4-6 p.m. $59. Blackfinn Ameripub: 1620 I St. NW, DC; www.blackfinnameripub.com Haley Fahey CD Release Show A lot of artists boast the skill of playing several instruments, but when the count grows larger than two, it’s hard not to
PREGAME AT THE BUDWEISER TERRACE. ONLY AT NATS PARK. FIRST TWO HOURS AFTER GATES OPEN. $5 BUDWEISER & BUD LIGHT. MUST BE 21+. SOME RESTRICTIONS MAY APPLY. www.ontaponline.com | JULY 2016 | ON TAP
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Drink | Dine | Do THURSDAY, JULY 21
be impressed. DC native Haley Fahey brings layers to her own music, providing vocals while also playing piano, mandolin and guitar, which is why her release show is sure to be a great send-off of her debut album, Sweet Red. Fahey draws inspiration from pop, country and soul, providing a lineup of songs for everyone to enjoy. 7-9 p.m. Free. Sehkraft Brewing: 925 N. Garfield St. Arlington, VA; www.sehkraftbrewing.com
SUNDAY, JULY 17 THURSDAY, JULY 21 Belgian Restaurant Week Chef Robert Wiedmaier is hosting Belgian Restaurant Week at Brasserie Beck and all of his Mussel Bar & Grille locations (Arlington, Bethesda and Baltimore) this month in celebration of Belgian National Day, offering locals the chance to partake in a week of authentic Belgian food and drink. Indulge in the free Belgian chocolate fountain for build-your-own La Dame Blanche hot chocolate sundaes during dinner service on Sunday, July 17 to kick-off the weeklong celebration. For “Hoppy Hour” Monday, enjoy half-price Belgian beer (drafts and bottles) with complimentary Belgian boudin blanc siders at the bar. Miniwaffles are just $1 for Waffle Wednesday, July 20 leading up to all-you-can-eat Belgian mussels on Thursday, July 21 to celebrate Belgian National Day for just $24. Belgian Restaurant Week: Brasserie Beck (1101 K St. NW, DC) and Mussel Bar & Grille locations; www.rwrestaurantgroup.com
WEDNESDAY, JULY 20 50 West Beer Off: Flavor Seminar Discuss, taste and demystify
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WEDNESDAY, JULY 20 A Taste of Greece Sample the sweet and savory aspects of Greek culture with a celebration of Greek wine, music and, of course, food. In honor of the only East Coast stop of the “The Greeks” exhibit, DC area Greek restaurants are coming together to celebrate this once-in-a-lifetime exhibit, along with Greek cuisine, which has become a ubiquitous and delicious part of the American restaurant scene. “The Greeks” exhibit will be open until 7 p.m. and admission is included with your ticket. Don’t miss your chance to dive into Greek culture with more than 500+ artifacts from more than 20 museums in Greece. 7 p.m. $50. National Geographic Museum: 1145 17th St. NW, DC; http://events. nationalgeographic.com six of the most common beer off-flavors: diacetyl, DMS, acetaldehyde, skunky, oxidized and infection. This seminar teaches attendees to easily identify these “off” flavors, and understand what causes them and how to avoid them. 6-8 p.m. $30-$35. Total Wine Chantilly: 13055 Lee Jackson Memorial Hwy. Fairfax, VA; www.brewtoad.com
On Tap | July 2016 | www.ontaponline.com
Brew at the Zoo Raise your glass to conservation and sample beers from more than 75 craft breweries. Also enjoy live entertainment from local band The Reagan Years, as well as lawn games and animal demonstrations. The area’s most popular food trucks will be onsite, and food will be available for purchase. 6-9 p.m. $50-$65. Smithsonian’s National Zoo: 3001 Connecticut Ave. NW, DC; www. nationalzoo.si.edu
SATURDAY, JULY 23 Blackberry Delight Celebrate the sweet-tart fruit in all its glory. Skyland chefs create these special blackberryinfused dishes, and combine them with a full day of live music, dancing, local crafts and more. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Free. Shenandoah National Park: Skyland (mile 41.7 and 42.5 on Skyline Drive) in Luray, VA; www. goshenandoah.com/activitiesevents/blackberry-delight The Founders’ Wine, Beer and Cider Festival The founding family of American wine joins with the founding families of Fauquier County’s craft brewing and cider to host an exceptional artisan event celebrating the local craft libations of the region. Old Bust Head Brewery and Cobbler Mountain Cellars are the first to produce beer and cider in Fauquier County. 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. Tickets are $15. Philip Carter Winery: 4366 Stillhouse Rd. Hume, VA; www.pcwinery.com In the Kitchen with Chef Erin Chef Erin will walk guests through the ins and outs of preparing eggplant parmigiana, from building a rich tomato sauce to lightly frying eggplant rounds, helping you achieve
SATURDAY, JULY 23 Mad Fox Anniversary Parties Two parties, two locations! The Glover Park Taproom turns one and the Falls Church home base turns six. Both locations will celebrate six years of award-winning brews with five rare beer releases, food specials, music and giveaways. Look for Batch 100, Batch 300, Batch 500, Crazy Ivan Imperial Stout and one surprise beer on draft. 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Free admission. Mad Fox Anniversary Parties: Mad Fox Taproom (2218 Wisconsin Ave. NW, DC) and Mad Fox Brewing Company (444 W Broad St. Falls Church, VA); www.madfoxbrewing.com a layered, nuanced final dish that captures the robust flavors of summer in every bite. The afternoon will begin with light snacks. 3-5:30 p.m. $85. Casa Luca: 1099 New York Ave. NW, DC; www.casalucadc.com
SUNDAY, JULY 24 BBQ Bash at The BBQ Joint Don’t miss this award-winning, competition-style barbecue bash including two craft beers and all-you-can-drink Natty Boh. Enjoy a full meal featuring ribs, brisket, pulled pork, baked beans, coleslaw, candied yams, collard greens and more. 12-2:30 p.m. $55. The BBQ Joint: 1309 5th St. NE, DC; www.andrewevansbbqjoint.com
MONDAY, JULY 25 Paella Cooking Class Chef Javier Romero will host a two-hour immersion session on cooking authentic tapas and paella. Participants will learn how to select the finest and freshest ingredients to make two different tapas and a cassic paella. During the cooking class, guests will also enjoy complimentary sangria or house wine as they taste the freshly made paella. All of the ingredients and materials will be provided. 6:30 p.m. $180. Taberna del Alabardero: 1776 I St. NW, DC; www.alabardero.com
WEDNESDAY, JULY 27 SUNDAY, JULY 31 FloydFest It’s a dreamweavin’ week at FloydFest 2016. This world music festival set in the scenic Virginia Blue Ridge features Greg Allman, Warren Haynes, Bruce Hornsby and the Noisemakers, and many more.
SATURDAY, JULY 30
WEDNESDAY, JULY 27 The Mallett Brothers Band It’s safe to say that The Mallett Brothers Band gets around, playing up to 150 shows per year around the country, according to their website. While the group does that to grow its fan base, the music is nothing to shake a stick at, with their alt-country sound using the occasional rock ‘n’ roll kick. With their busy schedule, the next chance to catch them live in Arlington won’t be for a while. 8:30-11 p.m. Free. Sehkraft Brewing: 925 N. Garfield St. Arlington, VA; www.sehkraftbrewing.com
Capital Beer Classic The inaugural Capital Beer Classic, presented by Bud Light, is coming to Fedex Field, home of the Washington Redskins, on Saturday, July 30. Join them for unlimited beer and wine samplings from more than 60 vendors, as well as live entertainment, food trucks, tailgating games and a chance to meet Redskins alumni and cheerleaders. Session one is from 12-3 p.m., and session two is from 5-8 p.m. Tickets start as low as $45, which includes a souvenir tasting glass and unlimited pours of your favorite beer and wine. FedEx Field: 1600 Fedex Way, Greater Landover, MD; www.capitalbeerclassic.com
Single, multi and camping passes available. Festival starts at 5:45 p.m. on July 27. Tickets start at $240. FloydFest: 894 Rock Castle Gorge Rd. Floyd, VA; www.floydfest.com
SUNDAY, JULY 31 Taste on Wheels Food Truck Festival Taste on Wheels presented by Taste of DC is a food truck event series celebrating the vibrant food truck scene in the MidAtlantic. This event features more than 15 trucks and a signature “taste” item. Plus, every attendee will receive a free drink with their admission ticket. 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Check website for ticket prices. The Yards Parking Lot: 1300 1st St. SE, DC; www.thetasteofdc.org
PLAN YOUR SUMMER STAY-CATION! JULY 7.1 7.2 7.3 7.24
ALL-STAR BREAK
Postgame Freedom Fireworks – Associated Builders & Contractors, Inc. Rat Pack Night: Poster**** Herbert Hoover Bobblehead**** – White House Historical Association Bryce Harper Kids Jersey (Ages 12 & under)**
AUGUST 8.5 U.S. Coast Guard Day – Delivered by UPS 8.13 STAR WARS™ Day: T-Shirt*** 8.25 Beltway Series – Inova 8.26 Max Scherzer No-Hitter Bobblehead Piece #2 of 2**** – PNC Bank 8.27 Postgame Faith Celebration HOME
AWAY
nationals.com | @nationals * Requires purchase of a special ticket ** First 10,000 fans *** First 20,000 fans **** First 25,000 fans
Schedule and promotions subject to change. All times ET. For the most current schedule and promotions, visit nationals.com/schedule. One promotional item per person per ticket, based on availability. Some restrictions apply.
www.ontaponline.com | July 2016 | On Tap
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By Michael Coleman
Photo: Courtesy of Citi Open Tennis Tournament
f you’re a fan of fast-paced, top-tier professional tennis, the Citi Open tennis tournament at Rock Creek Park is probably already on your summer calendar. But even casual fans – or just those who are simply looking for something new and fun to do – should consider catching a match or two this month. The marquee tennis event, scheduled for July 16-24, marks the 48th consecutive summer that the tournament will be played in Washington. The Citi Open is the only elite Association of Tennis Professionals World Tour 500-level event held in the United States, and has featured a Women’s Tennis Association international tournament since 2011, making it one of only four tournaments in the country that include both men’s and women’s fields. Champions over the tournament’s history have included some of the most historic names in tennis, including Arthur Ashe, Jimmy Connors, Ivan Lendl, Stefan Edberg, Andre Agassi, Andy Roddick and many more. This year’s schedule boasts some of the most exciting talent in years, including Grigor Dimitrov. The 37th ranked player in the world, Dimitrov is looking to boost his ranking back into the Top 10 where he was in 2014, when he advanced to the semi-finals at Wimbledon. The player is making his third appearance at the Citi Open this summer.
“It is a really great event,” Dimitrov tells On Tap. “For me, it is always my first event [of the season] back on the hard courts, and it is always nice to change things up. I have been very fortunate to get a lot of support at the DC event. They have great volunteers and great fans that make the week very special for me.” The 25-year-old Dimitrov, who counts tennis legends Pete Sampras Photo: Courtesy of Getty Images Grigor Dimitrov and Roger Federer among his role She says the tournament offers something models in the sport, says he’s been working for everyone – from the tennis aficionado to hard to improve his serve. those who are simply curious. “I keep my specific tennis goals to myself, “This year, we’ve come up with different but obviously [my overall goal] is to compete activities and options for families, young with the top players in the game on a weekly professionals, tennis fans [and even] basis,” he says. “I want to win the big events non-tennis fans. The nice thing about tennis is and help get my ranking back up to where it if you are not enjoying the game in the center was two years ago.” court, you have the ability to go [to] five other If Dimitrov performs well at the Citi Open, he outer courts and see another match.” can take a significant step toward achieving O’Brien also notes that the tournament is a that goal. Citi Open Tournament Manager great place to enjoy the summer weather, as Keely O’Brien says the quality of the field is well as the hospitality aspect of the sporting impressive. Among the returning players are event. top pros John Isner and Caroline Wozniacki, “If you want to get up from your seat, you as well as Bob and Mike Bryan, the most can come into the tailgate and do that for the accomplished doubles team in the history of entire session.” tennis. Head to Rock Creek Park from July 16-24 “We have a great field,” O’Brien says. “Having for the 2016 Citi Open. our tournament moved two weeks ahead so we weren’t back-to-back with the Olympics Rock Creek Park Tennis Center: certainly has helped our player field.” 5220 16th St. NW, DC; 202-722-5949;
www.citiopentennis.com
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On Tap | July 2016 | www.ontaponline.com
adison Brengle hopes her second season with the Washington Kastles can live up to her first. New to the squad last year, Brengle is now an integral part of a potent team that seeks to claim its sixth straight World Team Tennis (WTT) championship. Kastles Coach Murphy Jensen used Brengle extensively in both singles and doubles matches during the 2015 season. She went 6-4 in singles sets and 5-3 in doubles, where she was paired with Anastasia Rodionova. Brengle also clinched the final point in the 2015 Mylan WTT Finals, helping the Kastles net their fifth straight title. “Being a part of the DC team last year and winning the last championship point was just so exciting, and so much fun to be a part of,” Brengle says. The athlete, who previously played for the Delaware Smash in 2008 and the Kansas City Explorers in 2011, says she has taken to the District quickly. “I absolutely love DC,” she tells On Tap. “The crowd is fantastic. They get so into it, and it’s so much fun playing in this atmosphere. And there is always so much to do in DC, but I’m pretty partial to the Smithsonian museums.” Brengle was born in April 1990 and raised in Dover, Del. in a family with strong tennis roots. Her mother comes from a tennis background and started her playing by the age of two. “I enjoyed watching so many different players growing up,” she says. “In the 90s, there was this great variety of game styles starting to mix, so it was always fun watching and learning from everyone.” At 17, Brengle decided to bypass playing tennis in college and went straight for the pros. “I decided to give it my best shot, and will go to college when I finish playing professionally,” she says. That decision seems to be working out very well for Brengle. She began 2015 by reaching her first Women’s Tennis Association final in Hobart (the capital of Tasmania, Australia) and followed it up with a fourth-round showing at the Australian Open, her best major result. She recorded her first Top 10 win by ousting world No. 4 Petra Kvitova en route to the semifinals in Stuttgart, Germany in April 2015. Her career high singles ranking to date is No. 35, as of May 2015. Lately, she’s been preparing for the rigors of the 2016 WTT season, which kicks off for the Kastles on the road against the New York Empire on July 31. The team then comes right back to DC to play their home opener on August 1 against the Springfield Lasers.
By Chris Silva
I absolutely love DC. The crowd is fantastic. They get so into it, and it’s so much fun playing in this atmosphere.
Photos: Courtesy of The Washington Kastles
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ON TAP | JULY 2016 | www.ontaponline.com
A coed professional league that was founded in 1973, the WTT today features six teams, including the Kastles, Empire, Lasers, Orange County Breakers, Philadelphia Freedoms and San Diego Aviators. Matches between the teams consists of five sets, including men’s and women’s singles, men’s and women’s doubles, and mixed doubles. The 2016 regular season is scheduled to run July 31 to August 13. The top two teams advance to the Mylan WTT Finals on August 27, which will be held at a site (TBD) in the New York City area. The Kastles’ roster this year includes newcomers Mardy Fish and
presents
FREE Outdoor Concert Series Live Bands Every Friday!
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6:30 - 10:30 pm Food, Beer & Wine Available
July 1 8 15 22 29
Turtle Recall + South Bay Kristen & the Noise Crazy in Stereo + Six to Midnight The Reflex Herr Metal + Dr FU
August 5 12 19 26
twin brothers Bob and Mike Bryan. Brengle, Rodionova, Leander Paes, Sam Querrey and Martina Hingis return from last year. Players not returning include Rajeev Ram, Venus Williams and Denis Kudla. The WTT includes several household names, such as Andy Roddick, Caroline Wozniacki and Hingis, who is returning for her fourth straight season with the Kastles. Hingis has won five Grand Slam singles and 12 doubles titles. She is one of only six players in WTA history to be ranked No. 1 in singles and doubles simultaneously. “It was awesome getting to be on the team with her,” Brengle says of Hingis. “She has an incredible way of looking at the game, and her advice is so valuable.” With a full season under her belt, Brengle hopes she can once again get the Kastles a season-clinching point and a sixth straight title. Catch Brengle and the rest of the Kastles in action at their first home match on August 1.
Kastles Stadium at The Smith Center: 600 22nd St. NW, DC; www.washingtonkastles.com
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www.HerndonRocks.com www.ontaponline.com | JULY 2016 | ON TAP
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New | Notable | No Longer Ivy Room
Ivy Room Moscow Mule
On Tap keeps locals in the know about the latest and greatest food and drink hotspots around town, plus our top foodie picks for the month.
By Jean Schindler
NEW Bantam King Order: Chicken ramen The masterminds behind the ever-popular Daikaya are forging a new path with chicken ramen. And fried chicken. And chicken dumplings. All they need is chicken sake. In the meantime, this cheerful Chinatown chicken shop does offer Japanese beer and sake to help celebrate this new alternative when Daikaya is impossibly crowded. The noodles here are also flown straight from Daikaya’s supplier in Japan. Bantam King: 501 G St. NW, DC; www.bantamking.com
Greenhouse Bistro & Tea Lounge Order: Pisco Sage Punch (pisco, muddled red grapes, sage syrup, pineapple juice and lemon) When club kids finally grow up, they start gardening. Masoud Aboughaddareh (Lima, Barcode) has opened a restaurant with an indoor garden wall – literally, wall-to-table dining since it supplies the kitchen with its fresh herbs. But we were most intrigued by the “Tea and Food Pairings” menu. Lamb prosciutto, goat cheese mousse and baklava, paired with Lapsang Souchong tea? Yes, please. Greenhouse Bistro & Tea Lounge: 2070 Chain Bridge Rd. Tysons Corner, VA; www.greenhousetysons.com
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On Tap | July 2016 | www.ontaponline.com
Photo: John Robinson Photography
HipCityVeg Order: Crispy “chick’n” ranch sandwich I remember the vegan restaurant my mother frequented when I was a child: the food was strange and dense, and everyone seemed to be angry (probably from indigestion) or high. The world has changed, my friends. Cheerful young professionals are lining up for plant-based fast food from the masterminds behind Philly vegan powerhouse restaurant (yes, it’s a thing) Charlie Was a Sinner. The chick’n makes veganism seem worth contemplating, and sweet potato fries are now mainstream. They even have milkshakes that taste real! Yes, we live in the future, and it is delicious. HipCityVeg: 712 7th St. NW, DC; www.hipcityveg.com
Hugo Order: You’re Daisy If You Do… (Catoctin Creek Mosby’s Spirit, strawberry and black pepper, lemon, and sparkling water) Anchored by superstar distillery Catoctin Creek, Purcellville has evolved into a noteworthy drinking destination. The bar in WK Hearth memorializes pioneering cocktail author Hugo R. Ensslin with its menu of classics, and modernizes it by featuring local producers. Hugo: 130 Purcellville Gateway Dr. Purcellville, VA; www.thewinekitchen.com/hearth/drink
Junction Bakery & Bistro Order: Chocolate hazelnut cake The croissants are buttery, the industrial oven is straight from Italy, the coffee is from Commonwealth Joe, and there’s wine and beer. A bistro menu is available for lunch and dinner. This is a fantastic successor
Order: Blackberry Sour (Civic Vodka, lemon and fresh blackberries) This is the gorgeous new bar inside Republic Restoratives. Hard to get to? Yes. A concentrated sense of reward for the effort? Absolutely. The corner space is industrial chic meets greenhouse; the floor-to-ceiling windows (which swing open like garage doors) currently suffuse happy hour with summer light, and its being located in the distillery makes one feel a part of something epic. The cocktails feature Civic Vodka, the distillery’s current flagship product, and the cocktail program is helmed by David Strauss (formerly of Philly’s legendary Ranstead Room, and later, The Sheppard and Le Diplomate). The fact that Republic Restoratives is a woman-owned, crowdsourced adventure is the triumphantly trendy cherry in a deliciously modern cocktail. Ivy Room: 1369 New York Ave. NE, DC; www.republicrestoratives.com to Mancini’s, the well-loved (but faded) neighborhood institution it succeeds, and gives us another reason to visit Del Ray, one of the cutest, almost Metro accessible neighborhoods in the DMV. Junction Bakery & Bistro: 1508 Mt. Vernon Ave. Alexandria, VA; www.junctionbakery.com
Oklahoma Joe’s Bar-B-Que Order: BarbeQulossal “The Q” (sliced brisket, smoked provolone and two onion rings, all on a Kaiser bun) This small but popular OKC chain underwent a corporate reorg a couple years ago, and is now bent on world domination. Given that its smoky ribs are a noted favorite of President Obama, their dreams might not be far-fetched. Their first DC location has landed next to the Dunn Loring Metro station. Oklahoma Joe’s Bar-B-Que: 2670 Avenir Pl. Fairfax, VA; www.okjoes.com
Tysons Biergarten Order: Bier Enjoy a large selection of German and Belgian beers alongside 100+ American craft brews located only steps from the Greensboro Metro station. The silver line commute just got more interesting. Tysons Biergarten: 8346 Leesburg Pike, Tysons Corner, VA; www.tysonsbiergarten.com
Join On Tap and National Geographic Museum for
A Taste of
Greece presented by Zaytinya
Wednesday, July 20 7-10 p.m. at the Museum
Featuring Zaytinya, Kapnos, Nostos, Plaka Grill, Kellari Taverna, Zorba’s Cafe Signature Cocktails Wine Sampling from Blue Valley Vineyard and Winery Live Music Exclusive Evening Access to The Greeks Exhibit
Tickets & Information at
TasteofGreeceDC.com
World of Beer Order: Beer With 500 bottles and 50 rotating taps, it’s like visiting a new bar every time. The beautiful thing about the WOB franchise is that each location incorporates local producers into the menu, and Rockville will feature Denizens Brewing Co. (Silver Spring), Jailbreak Brewing Co. (Laurel) and others. World of Beer: 196 E. Montgomery Ave. Rockville, MD; www. worldofbeer.com/Locations/Rockville
NOTABLE
Photo: Courtesy of Dolci Gelati
Dolci Gelati
Why: Saffron, pistachio-candied, lemon peel gelato Local darling Dolci received the “Technical Jury Award” from the Gelato World Tour Competition in Chicago for its time-
intensive flavor (the saffron steeps in the gelato mixture for 24 hours). And the “gelato genius” behind Dolci, Gianluigi Dellaccio, will go on to compete in the global grand finale in Rimini, Italy next year. Dolci Gelati Café (three locations): 1420 8th St. NW, DC; 7000 Carroll Ave. Takoma Park, MD; and 107 N. Fairfax St. Alexandria, VA; www.dolcigelati.net
Swing’s Coffee Roasters Why: 100 years Swing’s has been caffeinating DC since 1916. The G Street location (made famous by The West Wing) is under renovation, so visit the gorgeously industrial Del Ray location, which offers public cuppings in its tasting room on Fridays at 10 a.m. Go forth and learn. Swing’s Coffee Roasters: 501 E. Monroe Ave. Alexandria, VA; www.swingscoffee.com
NO LONGER • • • • • • •
Atlas Room Austin Grill (Penn Quarter) BakeHouse Food Wine & Co. Habit Nana Thai Olivia’s Diner
2016 RAMMY Winners In June, the Restaurant Association of Metropolitan Washington gave out its 34th annual RAMMY awards to some of the area’s best food and beverage joints. We’d like to congratulate all of the winners, and give a few special shout-outs to spots recently featured in On Tap. For a full list of the 2016 winners, visit www.ramw.org. Beer Program of the Year Right Proper: 624 T St. NW, DC; www.rightproperbrewing.com Cocktail Program of the Year 2 Birds 1 Stone: 1800 14th St. NW, DC; www.2birds1stonedc.com New Restaurant of the Year Maketto: 1351 H St. NE, DC; www.maketto1351.com Upscale Casual Brunch Blue Duck Tavern: 1201 24th St. NW, DC; www.blueducktavern.com Upscale Casual Restaurant of the Year Le Diplomate: 1601 14th St. NW, DC; www.lediplomatedc.com
on the scene
For more photos From these And other events, visit the online gAllery At www.ontaponline.com.
Guests enjoyed small plates and craft cocktails from 30 restaurants in Penn Quarter and the 14th Street Corridor at Chef José Andrés’s Dine-N-Dash while listening to live music and mingling with celebrity chefs. PhotoS: MiChelle GoldChAin
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On Tap | July 2016 | www.ontaponline.com
be bold
Celebrate Independence with
Fries By Alex Benedetto
Aside from a shared month of independence, Americans, Belgians and the French hold one particularly delicious thing in common – a fondness for gloriously crispy fries. And each country has their own take on the tasty spud, whether it’s the classic French thin frites served alongside a perfectly cooked steak, the slightly thicker Belgian frites served with mayonnaise or the American take, served a variety of ways but always with ketchup on the table.
Belgian
Photo: Courtesy of Belga Café/B Too
For the perfect Belgian frites, you need good potatoes and not too much starch, explains Chef Bart Vandaele, owner of Belga Café (Barracks Row) and B Too (14th Street Corridor). Vandaele says he lets the potatoes sit overnight in room temperature water, then cuts them and rinses them for over an hour to get as much starch out as possible. “The big difference with Belgian frites is you cook them twice, so the first time you poach them in the fryer at a lower temperature, creating a crunch on the outside and the mashed potatoes on the inside,” Vandaele says. “When they are done, they whistle to release the steam that got built up inside and then you take them out, let them cool and fry them for a second time to a nice golden crisp.” The classic way to serve up Belgian frites is with mayonnaise or other various takes on aioli, but don’t let any ketchup nearby, Vandaele cautions. “It’s like blood to your fries,” he says. “There is only one way to do it, and that’s mayonnaise. When I first opened Belga, I refused to serve ketchup for nearly five months.” At Belga Café, enjoy their many offerings including the Belgian mussel pots, served with Belgian frites and mayonnaise (my personal favorite – mussels ostendaise for $26). And at B Too, order the grilled tenderloin with Belgian frites and béarnaise ($34).
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ON TAP | JULY 2016 | www.ontaponline.com
French
Photo: www.lediplomatedc.com
The French and Belgians will long argue over who created the first fries, with street vendors in the late 18th century selling fries on Pont Neuf in Paris, while Belgians are said to have originated the dish in the 17th century when the rivers froze the fish during winter. Either way, fries are a part of the French culinary culture, served as a delicious accompaniment to many classic dishes – particularly a perfectly cooked steak – and on their own as a tasty treat. Traditionally, French chefs fry the potatoes in beef or duck fat (vegetarians beware!) and do so double time – once blanching and second frying. Frites in France can be thicker cut, à la Pont Neuf style, or thinner, but both are characteristically crispy. At Dupont Circle’s Bistrot Du Coin, their homemade frites ($7.95) are somewhere in between the two thicknesses, and insanely addictive, with a side of béarnaise sauce as a must for dipping. Over at Le Diplomate, you cannot go wrong with ordering the moules frites ($19.50) or steak frites ($28.50), with the most delicious herb-roasted butter. The frites are thinner cut and served with a side of mayonnaise, though you are likely to just start dipping the frites in the herb butter/steak juice combination instead.
Check Our Website for Uber Awesome events in july
American
sehkraftbrewing.com
GOOD TO GO BRUNCH every sunday!
Pick Your Fries!
B Too: 1324 14th St. NW, DC; www.btoo.com Belga Café: 514 8th St. SE, DC; www.belgacafe.com Bistrot Du Coin: 1738 Connecticut Ave. NW, DC; www.bistrotducoin.com Le Diplomate: 1601 14th St. NW, DC; www.lediplomatedc.com DGS Delicatessen: 1317 Connecticut Ave. NW, DC; www.dgsdelicatessen.com The Partisan: 709 D St. NW, DC; www.thepartisandc.com
TUES
MON
WEEKLY SPECIALS Open Mic!
Every 2nd and 4th Monday Hosted by Derek Evry Half Off Haus Growler Fills Starting at 4pm 1/2 Off Butcher Shop Burgers
‘Geeks who drink’ Trivia Every other tuesday
Half Off Haus Growler Fills Starting at 4pm 1/2 Off Butcher Steak nite
WEDS
While many outside of the U.S. may look toward fast food establishments as the American representation of fries, there is a whole different take on the dish that showcases the true melting pot of American gastronomy. Loading up your fries with heavenly meats, cheeses and even – dare I say – cheese curds has become somewhat of the newfound favorite in the United States. At DGS Delicatessen (located in Dupont Circle and Mosaic District in Fairfax, Va.), they use their hand-cut fries and perfectly crispy latkes as blank canvases for their eight-day, house-cured pastrami, applewood-smoked salmon and other artisanal Jewish deli treats to give an updated take on fries, and pay homage to the Eastern European groceries of yesteryear. Try the Reuben French fries ($7), which start with hand-cut and double-fried French fries, topped with heaps of DGS pastrami and layered with house-made sauerkraut, Swiss cheese and Russian dressing. “One of our first cooks, Dave Moser, created them late one night,” DGS Co-founder Nick Wiseman tells On Tap. “He’s since passed away, but they will always be on the menu to remember him.” Over at The Partisan in Penn Quarter, they use their expertise in butchery for their heavenly beef fat fries with ranch aioli ($6). The fat from dry-aged beef (aged minimum 21 days) is used to fry up these thick-cut fries, which are then tossed with a garlic confit, rosemary and salt. “The beef fat gives it a really nice flavor and also makes the fries have their signature crispy crunch,” Partisan Sous Chef Alexia Sutter says. You’ll be licking your fingers and the plate after eating these, trust me.
Wine down wednesday
THUR
Photo: Courtesy of DGS Delicatessen
haus parties!
1/2 Off select wines Butcher shop eco-taco nite
Haus beer releases. re-launching of haus beers and guests brewery meet & Greets.
Sehkraft Brewery has enlisted the help of some of the areas hottest mixologists to create a unique & fun
Cocktail list! check out our on-site butcher shop www.ontaponline.com | July 2016 | On Tap
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with Chef Robert Wiedmaier By Monica Alford Belgian National Day is just around the corner, and Chef Robert Wiedmaier is ready to celebrate with a five-day lineup of Belgian-inspired dishes and drinks at four of his area restaurants. The RW Restaurant Group owner, who has been shaping the DC area food scene since opening his flagship fine dining establishment Marcel’s 18 years ago, is known for his authentic Belgian cuisine and expansive selection of Belgian beer. And from July 17-21, locals can get a taste of Belgium at Brasserie Beck downtown and all three Mussel Bar & Grille locations (Arlington, Bethesda and Baltimore). All week long, Wiedmaier’s eateries will serve a marinated turkey doner kebab sandwich complete with pickled onions, feta cheese, lettuce, cabbage and tzatziki sauce, plus waffle fries on the side. A traditionally Turkish dish, he says doner kabobs are wildly popular in Belgium, especially as a late-night option after a successful pub crawl. The chef’s custom “hoptail,” Antigoon’s Revenge – half cocktail, half double blonde ale – will also be available at participating restaurants. Brasserie Beck’s Beer Director, Dean Myers, walked On Tap through the hoptail’s ingredients – sweet ginger and elderflower liqueurs and a splash of lemon juice topped with the chef’s own Antigoon beer. Wiedmaier says Antigoon isn’t too
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ON TAP | JULY 2016 | www.ontaponline.com
heavy, and folks can easily knock back a few of them. Citrus, honeysuckle and coriander are among the flavors you’ll find in Antigoon, available at all RW restaurants and at retail stores such as Total Wine. Belgian Restaurant Week kicks off on Sunday, July 17 with a chocolate fountain, followed by a “hoppy hour” with Belgian brews and boudin blanc sliders on Monday, a shrimp feast on Tuesday, and mini Belgian waffles on Wednesday. The weeklong celebration wraps up on Thursday, July 21, which also happens to be Belgian National Day, with all-you-can-eat mussels. Wiedmaier’s favorite Restaurant Week item is undoubtedly the Belgian waffle. His father, who was born and raised in Belgium and immigrated to the U.S. at 18, was a “waffle nut,” hence the chef’s soft spot for the classic Belgian dish. The chef plans to stuff the waffles with strawberry or cherry jam, and drizzle them with caramelized sugar and a special sauce made from Belgian speculoos cookies. Aside from the ongoing celebration at his restaurants, Wiedmaier says his own Belgian National Day plans are pretty low-key and most likely involve tapping a keg of Stella. He was one of the first restaurateurs to introduce Stella on tap (at Marcel’s), and even named his English lab after the pilsner. He aspires to one day own a French bulldog to keep Stella company that will be aptly named Artois.
Photo: Alanna Sheppard
Photo: Scott Suchman
Antigoon’s Revenge with key ingredients
A Day in the Life When it comes to his professional life, Wiedmaier says each day starts the same way. He wakes up and his wife Polly says, “Let me tell you what’s on your calendar.” And each day, Polly remains the only one privy to his schedule. “I don’t tell anybody where I’m going,” he says. “With this many restaurants [10 total], I like to just walk in. They never know where I’m going to be.” A self-described mistake finder, the chef says he’s all about quality control. And with such a large team, he’s constantly in meetings at different restaurants to ensure that everything is running smoothly. Luckily, his core team at Marcel’s in Foggy Bottom has been with him since the very beginning – nearly 20 years. “It’s very nice to have people who have been so loyal and understand what I want with that restaurant all the time. It’s given me more time where I can go around and do other things and have fun, and then always swing back [to Marcel’s].”
Steamed mussels (white wine, roasted garlic, parsley and cream)
A True Music Lover Fun comes in many forms for Wiedmaier, but chief among them is music. Whenever he’s in his car, he’s listening to tunes – on Sirius though, never Top 40. And “it’s gotta be loud.” He catches local shows whenever he can at venues like 9:30 Club, Warner Theatre, DAR Constitution Hall and The Birchmere. But outdoor festivals are where he truly feels at home. When sitting down with On Tap, he shared stories about his recent adventures at Mountain Jam in Hunter Mountain, N.Y. The chef talked about being blown away by Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats, Beck and Thievery Corporation. He geeked out about Thievery’s performance in a way that only a true music lover would, describing their 1:30 a.m. set as unbelievable and going into vivid detail about a little sitarplaying, goggle-wearing man who, with an array of singers including a gorgeous French woman, performed “psychedelic, hypnotic, global rock” songs. And music runs in the family. Wiedmaier’s 17-year-old son, Marcel, has been playing bass guitar for eight years. The chef recalls one of Marcel’s recent gigs at the family’s house on the Chesapeake (complete with a stage and fire pit for such occasions). The proud dad describes his son’s band transitioning seamlessly from John Mayer and Grateful Dead to Iron Butterfly’s “In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida” and Rare Earth’s “Get Ready.” His favorite moment, though, was when Marcel played the “Star-Spangled
Photo: Alanna Sheppard
Banner” in its entirety while lying down. The chef notes gleefully that Chef David Guas’s teenage son Spencer was rocking out on the drums that night, and says the budding musician really wants to join Marcel’s band. Wiedmaier’s stories are fascinating and endless, from bumping into Roger Daltrey and Pete Townshend at the Four Seasons in the mid-90s to greeting the guys from America at The Birchmere, and reminding them of a show they played at the military base in Germany in 1973 where his family was stationed. His palpable joy when discussing all things music translates directly to his enthusiasm in booking an eclectic lineup of bands and DJs at his rock ‘n’ roll-inspired restaurant and live music venue Villain & Saint in Bethesda.
A Man of Many Interests But Wiedmaier’s interests don’t stop at music, with a short list of favorite activities that includes hunting, fishing, motorcycles and of course, cooking. The Bethesda resident is especially fond of hobbies that take his full concentration, allowing him to completely unplug from the day-to-day responsibilities of his career in the restaurant industry. “I can forget about the restaurant scene for a bit when I’m riding my motorcycle,” he says. “I’ve got to think about what I’m doing on the road. I can’t be thinking, ‘Oh, did we order enough veal racks yesterday?’ or ‘Are they reducing that sauce down perfectly?’” And when it comes to dining out, he’s all about staying under the radar. Black
I can forget about the restaurant scene for a bit when I’m riding my motorcycle. I’ve got to think about what I’m doing on the road. I can’t be thinking, ‘Oh, did we order enough veal racks yesterday?’ or ‘Are they reducing that sauce down perfectly?’
Market Bistro in Garrett Park, Passion Fish in Bethesda, and Guas’s Bayou Bakery (downtown and in Arlington) are among his favorite spots, and if he’s in the mood to eat oysters and drink beer, Old Ebbitt Grill is a must. But as much as he loves his own restaurants, the chef says he can’t sit down and enjoy a meal in them. “I can’t have a good time,” he says. “I can’t relax. I just go nuts. I’m watching every table.” While Wiedmaier may not be dining at one of his locations during Belgian Restaurant Week, he’ll be behind the scenes making sure everyone has an authentic Belgian culinary experience.
Learn more about Chef Robert Wiedmaier and his RW Restaurant Group at www.rwrestaurantgroup.com. www.ontaponline.com | July 2016 | On Tap
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Photo: Courtesy of Jenna Huntsberger
Whisked! peach strawberry pie
Photo: Tracy Conoboy
By Monica Alford
Jenna Huntsberger
enna Huntsberger grew up baking all of the classics – from apple pie and chocolate chip cookies to blueberry muffins and scones. By college, she’d graduated to pâte brisée and focaccia. Fast forward to this summer, and the Adams Morgan resident just celebrated her local bakery’s five-year anniversary. Huntsberger started Whisked! with the motto “Let’s see what happens,” at first selling her all-natural products exclusively to the 14&U Farmers’ Market. Now, her self-funded business sells to more than 40 stores and four farmers’ markets in the DC area, and makes a line of custom desserts for Cava Grill. The baker and her team work out of a space in Northeast DC’s Trinidad neighborhood with a giant oven that can bake 600 cookies at one time, a perfect fit for her increasingly popular “handcrafted American classics.” On Tap caught up with Huntsberger to talk about her all-American treats available this summer, what sets Whisked! apart from other area bakeries and how she likes to spend her time in the District. OT: What patriotic treats is Whisked! offering for Independence Day celebrations? Jenna Huntsberger: For the Fourth of July, we [make] all the classic [pies] – apple, blueberry, peach and cherry, along with our famous key lime pie with a graham cracker crust. We use fresh lime juice in the filling, and it has this great sweet and sour thing going for it. OT: How do you switch things up in your baking repertoire each season? JH: Because we work with seasonal produce, we update our menu every month with new offerings. We get really excited when peaches or strawberries come into season, because we don’t get to work with them all the time. And our customers get excited, too.
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On Tap | July 2016 | www.ontaponline.com
Photo: Tracy Conoboy
OT: What are your best-selling items? JH: The salty oatmeal cookie is our most popular cookie. It has the perfect balance of sugar, oats, flour and butter, and the kosher salt we sprinkle on top is the perfect accent. For pies, the sea salt chocolate chess, another salty-sweet creation, is always on the top of the list – it’s a rich, fudge-like chocolate pie that we top with Maldon sea salt. OT: In a city with a thriving baked goods scene, what makes Whisked! unique? JH: I started this bakery because I wanted to make desserts that I loved to eat – handcrafted, unfussy, American-style desserts that focus on flavor. Customers love that we put flavor first. We make American-style drop cookies because they’re comforting, nostalgic and the kind of cookie people crave. And because we let seasonal produce guide our menu, our pie and quiche flavors run the gamut from classic to unique. Flavors like strawberry lemon pie, spring greens and feta quiche, and pumpkin chocolate pie really stand out. OT: When you’re not baking, how do you spend summers in DC? JH: Rock Creek Park is on the top of my list. It’s so amazing to have such great trails and nature walks right in the heart of DC. I also love to go to the farmers’ market on the weekend if I’m not working at one of our markets. The Mount Pleasant Market is closest to us, and I can see all my producer friends and pick up food for the weekend. Find Whisked! cookies at area Whole Foods; pies, quiches and cookies at Yes! Organic Market; and a variety of treats at Glen’s Garden Market in Dupont and Shaw, Each Peach Market in Mount Pleasant, and Radici in Eastern Market.
Learn more about Whisked! at www.whiskeddc.com.
BEHIND THE BAR
ALL-AMERICAN MICHAEL ROVEZZI
Photos: Alanna Sheppard
Beverage Director at Bar Deco
On Tap: How would you characterize Bar Deco’s cocktails? Michael Rovezzi: A blend of traditional classics and approachable craft cocktails. The idea is to offer great seasonal drinks with high-quality spirits in a way that’s approachable for anyone, not just the cocktail aficionado. OT: What was your process for crafting Deco’s originals and classics? MR: When it comes to originals, the plan is to be just that. There’s something intentionally simple about that half of the menu. We [also] have the Deco Classics, which is where I get to have fun. And that’s something we change seasonally and always takes many different forms. OT: What seasonally-inspired drinks will be on the menu in July? MR: Our new summer cocktail menu features a lot of really bright summer flavors on top of some really unique boozes, mostly focusing on rum and clear spirits. OT: Why the local focus in your beer selections? MR: We like to feature products from the DMV as much as we possibly can, not only because we’re proud of where we are, but because places like DC Brau, Port City, Green Hat [and] Don Ciccio [are] all doing really great work just down the road, and we should support [them]. OT: Aside from its drinks, what gives Bar Deco its all-American feel? MR: Nothing says America like grit and hard work, right? The building is a completely redone printing factory, with a space to drink outside. Our kitchen features two large smokers, and we cook a good portion of our food over a [wood-burning] fire. Pretty American, I’d say. OT: What is your favorite aspect of working at Bar Deco? MR: There [aren’t] a lot of drawbacks to managing the place, especially when you consider most nights I end up on the roof under the stars.
Bar Deco: 717 6th St. NW, DC; www.bardecodc.com
Michael’s Pick:
RUTH’S PUNCH (Named after his mom) • • • • •
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Ketel One vodka Aperol Lemon juice Cane sugar syrup Fresh basil
ON TAP | JULY 2016 | www.ontaponline.com
By Monica Alford
FRENCH FLAIR LILY LIPPMAN
Photos: Tracy Conoboy
General Manager at Duck Duck Goose On Tap: What mark do you think the newly opened Duck Duck Goose will make on the DC foodie scene? Lily Lippman: There is so much love, hard work and passion that goes into every detail of DDG. As with any restaurant sharing that same conviction, the only hope is that the love and passion is translated through the product you put out, and received in a way where guests leave happy and inspired. OT: Is your role at DDG your first foray into French-inspired libations? LL: We are a contemporary French brasserie, so there is room to play. When rolling out our first cocktail menu, I wanted to highlight the playfulness of our restaurant’s concept. French, yes. Contemporary, yes. The cocktail menus will continue to evolve. OT: We’ve heard great things about the Duck L’Orange. What inspired this cocktail? LL: The Duck L’Orange is really a playful spin on an Old Fashion, while incorporating signature items such as our house-made duck bacon lolli and maple simple to add a bit of dimension and flare. OT: What other standout cocktails do you recommend for summer? LL: For those tequila lovers, like myself, the Loosey Goosey is a great summer cocktail: Herradura Silver Tequila, fresh mint, [a] splash of OJ, elderflower, fruit tree honey and lime. OT: What makes DDG’s drink menu reminiscent of what’s found in a French brasserie? LL: Our beverage program was designed to pay homage to what you would find in a French brasserie – from pairing a nice Burgundy with your dry-aged duck, to the Muscadet with your baked scallop.
Duck Duck Goose: 7929 Norfolk Ave. Bethesda, MD; www.ddgbethesda.com
Lily’s Pick:
THE GOLDEN GOOSE • • • • • •
Grey Goose Citron White cranberry Cointreau Fresh lemon Champagne float 24K gold flakes
barrelandbushel.com
7901 Tysons One Place Tysons Corner VA 22102 Located on the Tysons Coner Mall Elevated Plaza
VIRGINIA
BELGIAN BOLDNESS July 16th 12pm to 7pm Photos: Monica Alford
PHIL CLARK Head Bartender at Brabo
On Tap: What libations from Brabo’s drink menu have Belgian influences? Phil Clark: Most of our Belgian influence is present on our beer list, where we have several representations of both imported Belgian trappist ales and lagers, as well as American craft-brewed versions of the blanche, tripel and saison styles. OT: Do you feature any traditional Belgian cocktails, or are all drinks made with contemporary fusion in mind? PC: Our cocktail menu at Brabo is very much an expression of contemporary flavors represented in classic cocktail structures, with a strong focus on seasonality and cocktail technique. OT: How has Brabo allowed you to tap into your creativity at the bar? PC: Brabo has been extraordinarily supportive of my creativity. Chef Harper McClure has been very contributory to my vision to dovetail the cocktail concept with the exceptional food we serve, and our entire management team has provided significant input and resources while also supplying invaluable critique with their palates. OT: Will you be sharing any new drinks with customers during Belgian Independence Week (July 17-21)? PC: There are some exciting variations that can be made to classic cocktail structures substituting Belgian lambic ales for fruit purees and liqueurs, or by making ale-syrups using a Belgian beer, as opposed to water, as a major component in the recipe. OT: What’s your favorite Belgian beer served at Brabo? PC: I have a long and eventful relationship with Victory’s Triple-Style Golden Monkey Ale, which I always reflect fondly upon. I grew up in relatively close proximity to Victory Brewing, and maintain a deep appreciation for their contributions to bringing European-style conviction and attention to detail to American beer brewing, specifically to the East Coast.
50 Breweries 100+ Beers 50 Bourbons Live Music Hand Crafted Food Tickets
$15 in advance $20 day of ($17 with a metro card) Purchase Tickets at:
www.bandbcraftbeerfestival.eventbrite.com
See You On The Plaza
!
ses
lea r re
6 YEARS 2 LOCATIONS 2 PARTIES
e l be a i c spe eaway! glass giv ffo ood specials! mus ic !
Celebrate
Phil’s Pick:
six years of Mad Fox!
RUM JULEP Plantation Five-Year Barbadian rum Smith and Cross Jamaican rum Lemongrass syrup Four dashes of Bitterman’s ‘Elemakule Tiki Bitters • Grated nutmeg and lemongrass fan for garnish
July 17th 12pm to 5pm
CRAFT BEER FESTIVAL
Brabo: 1600 King St. Alexandria, VA; www.braborestaurant.com
• • • •
* Free Parking * Silver Line Metro Accessible * 20 Restaurants To Choose From * Water Cooled Tents * Live Music * Kids Activities * VIP Reception
July 23, 2016 Mad Fox Brewery 444 W. Broad Street Falls Church, VA 22046 (703) - 942 - 6840
Mad Fox Taproom 2218 Wisconsin Ave. NW Washington D.C. 20011 (202) - 791 - 0389
www.madfoxbrewing.com • @madfoxbrewing www.ontaponline.com | JULY 2016 | ON TAP
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Honor the District with
By Jake Emen
BLT Steak’s Rickeys
J
Photo: Courtesy of BLT Steak
Photo: Courtesy of Radiator
“Another awesome suggestion is to batch out the uly is Rickey Month in DC, and that’s not whole cocktail and throw it in the iSi Soda Siphon, just a passing fad – the District’s city council charge it, then pour over ice!” named the gin rickey “the native cocktail” Elsewhere around town, visit Dupont Circle’s BLT of DC in 2011. And it’s the perfect month to Steak for a trio of new rickeys from beverage director partake in the beverage, which is at its core James Nelson. The lineup includes the You Put the a refreshing libation that seems designed Lime in the Coconut, with white rum, coconut liqueur, for passing away the hot, humid and long house-made lemon lime soda and lime juice; the days of a DC heat wave. Plus, the cocktail Watcha Drinking Ricky, with bourbon and smoked also has a uniquely DC tale of origin. pineapple syrup; and the Pimm Pickled a Pickled “History says that the ‘rickey’ cocktail was born in the late Pepper, with gin, Pimm’s and a roasted red pepper 1800s at Shoomaker’s Saloon,” explains Maria Concepcion, syrup. All three are available in a tasting flight for $18. lead bartender at The Ashlar in Old Town Alexandria, Va. For another rickey riff, check out Dino’s Grotto At The Ashlar, Concepcion delivers a lineup of revamped, in Shaw for their Blood Orange Rickey ($12 or Colonial-era cocktails, and she’s an expert on the $8 during happy hour). Dino’s variation includes background of everything she pours up. house-made, blood orange-infused gin, fresh lime juice, “Cabinet members and politicians spent most of their house-made grapefruit syrup and soda. Or head to drinking days at Shoo’s, and one such infamous regular Radiator’s Rickey Goes to Hawaii Radiator in the 14th Street Corridor for the Rickey was democratic lobbyist Colonel Joe Rickey,” continues Goes to Hawaii ($12), made with Aviation gin, lime Concepcion. “He imbibed some serious rickeys, and it juice and li hing powder. was said that his version was whiskey, ice and seltzer from bartender Finally, culminate your month-long rickey journey by experiencing George A. Williamson.” all of the best that the city’s bartenders have to offer. Visit Jack Rose Colonel Rickey preferred the drink to such a degree that it was in Adams Morgan on July 31 as the bar plays host to the DC Craft named for him. From there, the drink took on a life of its own – soon Bartenders Guild’s rickey competition finals. a squeeze of lime was added, and then gin became its favored spirit. While that remains so to this day, feel free to personalize your own rickey. “Just like every other cocktail ever made, people always look for the next cool thing,” says Concepcion. “There are thousands of The Ashlar: 116 S. Alfred St. #101, Alexandria, VA; beautifully-made spirits out there to do riffs on.” www.ashlarrestaurant.com But certain components must remain constant for a proper rickey. “I believe the drink is made to be a dry, savory concoction, and I like BLT Steak: 1625 I St. NW, DC; www.bltrestaurants.com to keep it that way on every twist made,” she says. “And a nice, super fizzy seltzer!” Dino’s Grotto: 1914 9th St. NW, DC; www.dinoinshaw.com Try your hand at home with Concepcion’s recipe for the A Lil’ R&R, with 1 oz. Chairman’s Reserve Spiced Rum, 1 oz. Broadbent Rainwater Jack Rose Dining Saloon: 2007 18th St. NW, DC; Madeira and .5 oz. lime juice, topped with Fever-Tree Soda Water. Or www.jackrosediningsaloon.com order it up at The Ashlar to see how Concepcion gets it done. For a full summer’s worth of refreshing cocktails, Concepcion has a final tip. Radiator: 1430 Rhode Island Ave. NW, DC; “I highly recommend buying an iSi Soda Siphon – it’s a good www.radiatordc.com investment for home, as good seltzers can be a bit pricey,” she says.
Grab a Rickey
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ON TAP | JULY 2016 | www.ontaponline.com
SPIKE your cocktail
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ON TAP | MAY 2016 | www.ontaponline.com
To honor the establishment of a country with a long, deep and rich beer history on Belgian National Day (July 21), let’s go through a quick and dirty breakdown of Belgian beers: a what to know and where to go in and around the District to drink and buy these complex brews. As Belgian-inspired, Belgian-style and Belgian beers are more accessible, look to these places in the DMV for help in learning about or just enjoying a traditional, historic style of beer.
Belgian Beers in the DMV By Tammy Portnoy
The H Street Corridor’s old-timey, Belgian-inspired gastropub puts an emphasis on harder-to-find Belgian beers and new or up-and-coming local breweries. Check out Granville’s menu for an extensive bottle list, and on the many chalkboards in the restaurant for unique Belgian or local drafts, many of which pair well with the spot’s nationally recognized mussel options. Granville’s beer maven, Erin Gilbert, suggests Ertvelds Wit, on draft during the summer to complement the corn chowder mussels. The gastropub is known for its unique draft list, including the Tripel Van de Garre. “It’s an 11 percent tripel and goes down like a 5 percent,” she says. “It’s a beautiful example of what a tripel should be.”
Granville Moore’s: 1238 H St. NE, DC; www.granvillemoores.com
Want to have fun? Go into Roofers Union in Adams Morgan, find beer director Dave Delaplaine, smile nicely and start asking him questions about his favorite beers in stock – many of which are tart, sour, spontaneously fermented lambics. The restaurant and bar has a huge sour beer focus, with at least one to two on draft from Belgium at any given time. “I love what Belgian yeast brings to the table,” Delaplaine says. “Whether it’s a beer from Belgium or a beer using yeast from Belgium, the complexity created is so extravagant, I cannot get enough of it. When searching for sours, I love the lacto acidity that really makes your mouth pucker. Many of these beers may seem unnecessarily acidic until you pair them with that perfect fatty meat…then bliss.” Several sours will make their debut on tap at Roofers this summer. In the meantime, enjoy two 2014 sours from Roofers’ cellar that Delaplaine is currently crazy about: Oud Beersel and Weyerbacher’s Riserva.
Roofers Union: 2446 18th St. NW, DC; www.roofersuniondc.com
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Granville Moore’s Erin Gilbert
Photo: Courtesy of Granville Moore’s
Schneider’s Stewart Phillips
Photo: Courtesy of Schneider’s
Tysons Corner’s Browse through an interesting craft beer selection at Schneider’s, a shop known for its eclectic selection and 60+ year history. Beer Director Stewart Phillips posts to Twitter (@schneidersbeer) when he has harder-to-find beers in stock. Or, if you’re one of his top customers, you might get an email with a heads up when new brews come in. Phillips mixes up Schneider’s beer selection with Belgians because, unlike many U.S. beers, they’re not as hop-forward – especially during the summer, when he recommends a light, citrusy tripel. He suggests starting your Belgian education with the regularly stocked La Trappe Tripel or Quadrupel, or Saison Dupont. “They’re easy to get into,” Phillips says. “Belgian beers can have a great flavor without being overwhelming. A classic saison can especially be easy drinking, but as you progress in your beer education, you can get into more heavy stuff, like quads.”
Schneider’s of Capitol Hill: 300 Massachusetts Ave. NE, DC; www.cellar.com
It would be silly not to include the Neighborhood Restaurant Group’s newly opened bar and bistro in Georgetown dedicated to “celebrating the rustic cuisine and fabled brewing culture of Belgium.” The Sovereign’s beer program features 50 drafts and more than 350 bottles curated by Beer Director Greg Engert. But don’t expect to order the Belgian beers you know from your drinking past. The Sovereign’s brews aren’t sweet or overly nuanced. “We are really focusing on fewer producers, because we are concentrating on the best,” Engert says. “But, we also have a full range of flavors from those Belgian brewers.” In regards to the exclusivity of the beer that The Sovereign stocks, Engert says, “We get consistent, direct shipments of exclusive Belgian and Belgian-style brews from the likes of Cantillon [Brewery] and Tired Hands [Brewing Company].” This month, The Sovereign is setting up events to showcase bottle and draft pours of some very rare lambics. You will most definitely find options not available anywhere else in the DMV, and possibly the U.S.
July
BREWERY EVENTS
7/6 7/13 7/20 7/27
BREWERS HAPPY HOUR 5:00PM7:00PM Join Justin at the bar for a cold craft brew
BREWERY TOURS 5:00PM7:00PM Curious about the brewing process? Come learn all about it!
BEER AND BRATS What is the best thing to pair with a Bratwurst? Answer: Our cold brewed in house beers!
WINTERBOCK CHRISTMAS IN JULY RERELEASE The Winterbock has been aging in Bourbon barrels and now you get to enjoy it. A special brewers menu will be available for a limited time.
The Sovereign: 1206 Wisconsin Ave. NW, DC; www.thesovereigndc.com www.ontaponline.com | July 2016 | On Tap
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The Bierdo “Lets Get Beer’d!” By Nick Hardt
mission:
honor brewing
h
appy Fourth of July, Bierdos! To honor our Independence Day and all of the great men and women of our fine military that preserve our independence every day, I headed to the best vet-owned bar I know – Dupont Circle’s Rebellion – to try and start the fireworks early. At Rebellion, I tasted some veteran-brewed and extremely drinkable craft beer that I’ve heard praise about in the beer trenches from Honor Brewing in Chantilly, Va. The brewery is currently still under construction, but Honor beers are available around town for mass consumption (check www.honorbrewing.com for details). And of course, Rebellion had all three current beers “on duty” for me to inspect – and let me tell you, Bierdos, I inspected every last single freaking drop! So raise your glass to honor, my friends! Founded by brewers, patriots and the families of service members who paid the ultimate price, Honor Brewing not only respects and celebrates our military through countless weekly charitable events and fundraisers (and each beer and boot-adorned label is a tribute in and of itself ), but it also crafts one helluva beer. Don’t believe me? I encourage you to strap on your drinking boots and pick up a pint. I have yet to find a local beer that is as drinkable and approachable for everyone as it is well-crafted. I salute you, Honor Brewing team, for striving to create such a drinkable salute to our soldiers!
Honor Golden Ale, 4.9 percent: There’s something very drinkable about this blonde golden ale. It’s almost as thirst-quenching as a pilsner or your typical carbonated light beer, but not. Prepare to drink something entirely more flavorful, yet very well-balanced and palatable. You’ll notice the pilsner/ white wheat malts and hops right away, but you won’t make the old man hop face, as it delivers something dry, earthy and herbal with some residual hop bitterness. I was very surprised with this well-crafted, smooth and refreshing beer. Rating: Golden nectar of the beer gods!
Honor Warrior IPA, 6.2 percent: If you liked the golden ale, but craved a little more hops, you will not be disappointed by their IPA. More piney and again earthy than the typical citrus-forward and heavy IPAs that I always love, Honor Brewing flipped the switch and went in another direction, which I applaud them for. I detected caramel malts and a certain honey sweetness here followed by some residual hop bitterness. Again, a “smooth,” almost “criminal,” IPA. Rating: Annie, are you okay? Are you okay, Annie? You’ve been hit by...one smooth IPA.
Honor Gold Star Cherry Wheat, 5.5 percent: The Cherry Wheat is a Belgian-style American wheat beer that’s perfectly proportioned. The cherry is on the tail end, and not overpowering like every other cherry beer I’ve had in my life. It’s very light and refreshing, with the “essence” of cherry. Thanks somebody for finally getting it right. A “flavorful fruit beer” doesn’t have to be like a heavy dessert. It can be a beer with a twist. Here’s living…beer proof. Rating: A little old school, a little new school, a little bit awesome. She’s my cherry pie... cool drink of water, such a sweet surprise!
Honor Brewing: 14151 Newbrook Dr. #200, Chantilly, VA; 866-920-9463; www.honorbrewing.com
Have a beer for the Bierdo to try? Drop him a line at nick@ontaponline.com.
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Photo: Sam Vasfi
By Tess Ankeny
I
f a summer trip to Provence is out of the question this year, the relatively new Bar à Vin in Georgetown is sure to satisfy all the Francophiles out there. Sister to the larger Chez Billy Sud restaurant right next door, Bar à Vin, which translates to “wine bar,” is a more casual alternative that focuses on French wines, cheeses and charcuterie in a cozy, parlor-like environment so inviting that losing track of several hours is not unlikely. The entrance to the bar isn’t loud or obvious, and it almost feels like venturing into a secret hideaway. Once inside, however, the décor will definitely leave an impression. Designed by Joe Reza, the bar boasts wood paneling throughout, velvet chairs, ornate wallpaper, a wood-burning fireplace and a beautiful copper-topped bar – the atmosphere will quickly transport you to a different time and place. And you haven’t even had a glass of wine yet!
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Since opening earlier this year, Bar à Vin’s inspiration for the wine program has been terroir-focused smaller producers from classic French wine regions such as Champagne, Bordeaux and Burgundy, as well as from lesser-known regions popular among sommeliers and enthusiastic imbibers alike, such as the Jura, Loire Valley and Languedoc-Roussillon. Non-French wines and craft cocktails are also well-represented if you feel like mixing it up. Chef and partner Brendan L’Etoile was curating the Bar à Vin wine list earlier this summer, keeping the large selection of French classics fresh and updated. However, a new wine director joined the Bar à Vin team in late June, so expect the wine program to be continually evolving and growing with exciting new additions. There’s a cheerful happy hour selection and well-designed wine flights that allow you to sip through a number of regions. When you get a bit hungry, feast upon the cheese and charcuterie boards and gourmet bites; the spiced walnuts are a dangerously decadent little treat. Also not to miss: Chef Brendan’s new small
plate, Lou Cachat, a specialty from Provence that’s popular in cafes throughout the south of France. The snack is made of fresh Provençal goat cheese whipped together with brandy and olive oil and then topped with a drizzle of honey and lavender, served with crunchy crackers to dip (and a spoon to make sure you get every last bite). There’s no better summertime snack than an order of Lou Cachat paired with a glass or two of one of the crisp rosés on the menu. Chez Billy Sud’s next door garden, or the bar’s intimate patio seating, may be better for sipping rosé and Chablis this summer, but lounging amidst the Renaissance era décor by the wood-burning fireplace inside will be the place to be when the rainy, cooler nights come around. Whether you’re celebrating Bastille Day or just have a hankering for some old school classics, Bar à Vin certainly won’t disappoint.
Bar à Vin: 1035 31st St. NW, DC; 202-965-2606; www.chezbillysud.com
Join us for a
Bastille Day Celebration
at Flats 8300
Thursday, July 14 6-8 pm Enjoy complimentary beer & wine light fare, FRom Mon Ami Gabi Live music from Sly 45
RSVP at
www.flats8300rsvp.com Must by 21+ to consume alcohol
AN
www.flats8300.com 8300 Wisconsin Avenue, Bethesda, MD. 20814
PRODUCTION
By Courtney Sexton DC’s Young Rapids have been categorized as everything from indie to art rock to dream pop. And despite having just finished recording their third full-length album, they still seem to be finding themselves musically, which is perhaps what continues to keep listeners along for the ride. The group tracked what would become the nine-song album Everything’s Perfect, out later this year, while isolating themselves in a friend’s house in the George Washington National Forest for days at a time. “We would just play music for 18 hours a day, and in doing so, I think we actually made a pretty cohesive record, but we didn’t set out to do that,” says guitarist Alex Braden (who also adds that it’s their best record yet). “The funny thing is that the record actually sounds more urban – more like we live in a city than the previous two records, but it was written mainly in the woods.”
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Photo: Courtesy of Young Rapids
Abandoning the idea of making a record based on a predetermined concept – the method that arguably produced faults in their sophomore album, Pretty Ugly – the band seems confident that something much stronger emerged. “I do remember there were plenty of arguments about ‘What does Young Rapids sound like?’ Like, ‘Is this a Young Rapids song or is it not?’ And I think once we gave up on that, things [came together],” says vocalist Dan Gleason. The biggest challenge in making Everything’s Perfect, and for the band in general, is determining who is actually going to play which instrument on any given track. Drummer/bassist Joe Bentley notes, “It’s sort of an interesting source of frustration that’s kind of unique to this band. A lot of the time the song is there, but then it’s like, ‘Who’s going to play what?’” These guys are smart. It’s fun to watch them bicker and pick at each other. They’ve been playing, experimenting and growing into legitimately talented musicians who want to do it all, and have been carving a musical space together in the District for nearly six years. “In a city dominated by business and politics, for musicians to stay here and thrive here, they have to enjoy the struggle,” Gleason says. “I think the people who stay here stay here for a reason, and maybe it’s because they like that push and pull.” With the rest of us, they lament the loss of house venues and artist lofts, spaces like Paperhaus and Union Arts.
**Mondays - Neighborhood Night** (Happy Hour til 9pm!)
**Tuesday Night Trivia** **Open Mic Every Wednesday**
**Thursdays - Ladies Night on Stage**
**Paint Nite 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
FOOD
BEER
LIVE MUSIC
BRUNCH
JULY ENTERTAINMENT 7/1 7/2 7/3 7/7 7/8 7/9 7/14 7/15 7/16 7/21 7/22 7/23 7/28 7/29 7/30
Thunder Buddies DJ Lingo DJ Paul Surreal DJ Jenesis Odeon White Ford Bronco DJ 2Nutz Screaming Monkeys Footwerk DJ Lingo JerX Lovely Rita DJ Paul Surreal DJ Pork & Beans Turtle Recall
Rooftop Open Daily! weather permitting
2854 Wilson Blvd. 703-276-WOWE (9693) Clarendon Metro Stop (Orange Line) whitlows.com
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Photo: youngrapids.tumblr.com
And while they agree that artist-to-artist support is strong, there are crucial elements missing on the scene. Braden believes DC is in need of more objective artistic tastemakers, people who offer “truly thoughtful critiques,” while drummer Colin Kelly notes a lack of cross-genre collaboration keeping music from really exploding in the District the way it did in the early 90s. “I think bands need to break out of their genre zone, as far as the other bands that they gig with. Stop thinking in terms of ‘Well, we’re this kind of band so we can’t play with that kind of band that’s doing this other kind of rock ‘n’ roll or whatever,’” Kelly says. The band’s upcoming show at DC9 on July 13 will certainly break those barriers. In addition to playing alongside members of The Flaming Lips, the band will be joined by classical pianist Mary-Victoria Voutsas and a mini-ensemble of her students, who will accompany Young Rapids on “a few of the synthier numbers.” “We’re not getting any simpler,” Braden says. So what makes them keep at it? For Bentley, it’s an opportunity to communicate without words. “[To have] four people who can sit in the same room and not ever say a word and just communicate with sounds – I think that’s what keeps us all doing it. I think we would be doing it even if no one was paying attention, anyway.” Braden disagrees. “I’m not sure I would do it if there was nobody around to hear it. If I’m going to devote time to polishing something and finishing it and perfecting it as best I can, I don’t want that to stay with just me. It’s like if a tree falls in a forest, you know?” The disparate energies of Young Rapids both meld and clash. Listening to their records isn’t satisfying, but it makes you want to see them perform, to be in that room, to be a part of that musical conversation and hear the tree fall. Catch Young Rapids at DC9 on July 13 at 8 p.m. Tickets are $10-$12.
DC9: 1940 9th St. NW, DC; 202-483-5000; www.dcnine.com
FRIDAY CONCERT SERIES 2016 Friday Night Series 6:30-8:30 at the Yards Park | 355 Water Street SE 7/1 7/8 7/15 7/22 7/29 8/5 8/12 8/19 8/26 9/2
B Street Band Jeff From Accounting Texas Chainsaw Horns Sam Grow Band Sly 45 Justin Trawick Lovely Rita 19th St Band Lloyd Dobler Effect Almost Journey
Springsteen Tribute Current Hits Americana Country Party Pop Americana ‘80s & ‘90s Hits Americana Rock Pop Journey Tribute
Beer & Wine Available On-Site at the Corona Light Bar! (must be 21+, no outside alcohol)
yardspark.org | capitolriverfront.org | @yardspark
By Jon Kaplan Photo: Courtesy of Honda Civic Tour: Future Now
emi Lovato and Nick Jonas probably couldn’t have imagined their new tour when they met at a Disney Channel screen test almost a decade ago. They were just kids then, and Lovato didn’t even get the part on the Jonas Brothers show that she was auditioning for. But in a recent phone interview, the two explained that their relationship really took off a few months later, when they filmed the Disney movie Camp Rock together. “We became friends really on the set of Camp Rock,” Jonas said. “Demi and I are a month apart in age, and we were doing school together on set while filming and really connected pretty quickly. And then over the years, [...] it [is] a great friendship with, I think, lots of differences in our personalities, which actually even helped us just be that much closer, but also on a creative and artistic level.” “Throughout the years, we’ve been super close,” Lovato added, “and he’s one of the most
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loyal and true friends that I have in my life.” After Camp Rock and more acting and singing with his brothers in their band, The Jonas Brothers, Jonas eventually set out on his own, releasing an album showing his newer, more mature side in 2014. Lovato also carved her own path, transitioning to more adult acting roles and a more mature sound in her music after a well-publicized stint in rehab. The transitions weren’t always easy. “It was challenging at the beginning, for me at least,” Jonas said, “and still is, to a certain degree. I think there was an association with people’s first introduction to me, as opposed to them taking the music and my image for what it is now, in its current representation. So it took some time.” “For me, the transition was a little bit easier,” Lovato said, “because I didn’t have to do anything to break out of the Disney mold. It’s a lot easier when you just go to rehab. So, I kind of grew up really fast in the public eye in that
way, and so when it was time to release my music, I think people looked at me differently.” In addition to their friendship, Lovato and Jonas have created their own record label – Safehouse Records – which they use to release their albums. They also both contribute time and resources to many different charities and volunteer efforts. It’s an important part of what they do, Lovato said. “I wanted to continue the message of using my platform for more things than just singing about heartbreak,” she said. “That’s what music is for: getting you through [hard] times, but also using it to inspire people.” Catch Lovato and Jonas on their Honda Civic Tour: Future Now at the Verizon Center on July 26. Doors open at 6 p.m. and the show starts at 7 p.m. Tickets start at $29.95, and are available at www.ticketmaster.com.
Verizon Center: 601 F St. NW, DC; 202-628-3200; www.verizoncenter.com
on the scene
For more photos from these And other events, visit the online gallery at www.ontaponline.com.
Guests enjoyed DC JazzFest at Yards Park, sipping wine and beer and listening to live music alongside the Anacostia River. Photos: Tracy Conoboy & Michelle GoldChain
www.ontaponline.com | May 2016 | On Tap
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By Trent Johnson
Photo: Jay Blakesberg
he original members of Yonder Mountain String Band had no intention of picking such a traditional bluegrass name for the band back in 1998. Though the moniker has stuck for 18 years, the group feels no pressure to live up to the old-fashioned imagery derived from the words, as they draw inspiration from a plethora of sounds. “The name is traditional, but the sound has evolved into something else,” guitarist Adam Aijala says. “We had played together for about two-and-a-half months before we became a real band, and we thought we would be traditional. But all of our different influences have come out in the songs.” Aijala and his bandmates all contribute to vocals in addition to playing their respective string instruments on songs that often feature slow, methodical melodies with the expected strums of mandolin and banjo. These songs are balanced by faster “jamgrass” tunes where you can hear the band’s rock ‘n’ roll influences, and tap into the subgenres they’re discovering within bluegrass. The group is currently traveling around the country on the back of their 2015 release Black Sheep, performing at venues big and small. Despite the variance in crowd size on a nightly basis, the number is less important than the vibe from the show. “If the crowd [is] into it, the size doesn’t matter to me,” Aijala says. “If I can see their faces, and they’re all psyched, that’s good enough for me. We play seriously, but we want to have fun. If someone makes a mistake in front of 10,000 people, we laugh it off. A gig’s a gig. I don’t like when artists say, ‘We have a big gig coming up, and it’s important.’ They’re all important.” One perk of living in a moving vehicle with your bandmates for long stretches is the opportunity to work on new tracks in a fixed setting. Because of the various influences – ranging from Grateful Dead to 80s hair metal – that have shaped and molded the members of the band, Aijala, Ben Kaufmann, Dave Johnston, Allie Kral and Jake Joliff, the songs can evolve as more opinions contribute to the process. “Going into creating a new song with a free mind, you get a lot more accomplished if you’re open-minded than if you’re strict and more rigid,” Aijala says. “There is the argument with ‘too many cooks in the kitchen,’ but if everybody has some input, it can be helpful.” The group has already begun playing new songs on their tour, and Aijala is hoping for an early 2017 release. Until then, fans will have to enjoy the sounds of Yonder Mountain’s ever-evolving set list, which has famously never been repeated. “I know a lot of people who don’t listen to bluegrass, but listen to us,” Aijala says. “We play music and perform music, so people can come and live in the moment. We don’t have an agenda other than for people to have a good time.” The touring, loosely bluegrass band is part of the multifaceted Merryland Music Fest at Merriweather Post Pavilion this month, with acts like Shakey Graves and Stephen “Ragga” Marley joining the fray. Catch Yonder Mountain String Band on July 9 during the first day of the festival. Tickets start at $75.
Merriweather Post Pavilion: 10475 Little Patuxent Pkwy. Columbia, MD; 410-715-5550; www.merriweathermusic.com
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PRESENTS THE :
SUMMER CONCERT SERIES
at Park Potomac Place: 12505 Park Potomac Ave.
REMAINING JULY DATES
(Montrose Rd & I-270)
6-8pm FRIDAYS:
FREE on-site Parking
DATE:
BANDS:
LOCAL BREWERIES:
7/1
Sly 45
Milkhouse
7/8
7 Deadlies
7 Locks
7/15
Justin Trawick
Jailbreak
7/22
Darcy Dawn
Oliver Brewing
(2 underground garages and surface parking)
SPONSORS/PARTNERS:
[subject to change]
$10 ADMISSION +
URBNmarket
UNLIMITED SAMPLES
all things vintage and handmade:
7/15 (3:30-8:30 pm)
TICKETS: ONTAPONLINE.COM
ALLMAGAZINE PROCEEDS BENEFIT THE ROCKVILLE VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT
INFO:
parkpotomac.com
Lisa Wood
LWood@foulgerpratt.com
In the Mix
By Marcus K. Dowling
Photo: Tronster Hartley
When talking to DC area favorite DJ Baby Alcatraz, you immediately feel a breath of fresh air that seems like it’s sweeping the neon and glow sticks out of the room. Then you realize that’s just wind from feet on the dance floor caught up in the off-the-beaten-path rhythms of a smooth soul tune. Songs 50+ years old yet still able to get bodies on the dance floor – that’s where this DJ’s story begins. In an era where computers play electronic bleeps, bloops and drops, seeing Baby Alcatraz’s name on a local lineup ensures that you’re probably going to hear something entirely different, and see a rare 45-rpm vinyl record – or 10 – along the way. A classic era throwback in a new age, she’s certainly worthy of our ears, feet and time.
“I’m also still so happy that people know that I do this odd thing and still invite me to do just that at their venue, with zero input or suggestion that I do anything differently.” Analog appreciation goes back a long way with Alactraz, known as Alyssa Bell when she’s not performing. “I’ve always felt surrounded by music,” she tells On Tap. “[We] always, always had music on when I was growing up, and my Walkman was my most prized possession. I had backup batteries for my backup batteries to keep that thing going 24/7. Getting a stereo with high-speed cassette dubbing is still one of the best gifts I’ve ever received.” Alcatraz’s sets involve spinning 45-rpm vinyl record singles of
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rhythm and blues songs that were often released prior to 1970. Given that the typical DC partier of late places their date of birth sometime after 1990, her skill set presents an intriguing dichotomy. Alcatraz notes that “to have people dancing to those records when there’s much more familiar music being played at surrounding venues still inspires me.” Alcatraz realizes that all-vinyl gigs are “not for everyone.” She’s had people leave her sets “because they didn’t hear exactly [what they wanted to hear].” To aid in branding who she is as a DJ and what she does behind the decks, she even has a “No requests” sign because people unfamiliar with all-vinyl DJing don’t always realize that she can only play the records she has with her on any given evening. Sticking to her guns has allowed Alcatraz to join alongside a crew of vinylphiles including Ian “Name Names” Svenonius, Sean “Mad Squirrel” Hissey, Tariq “Pharaoh Haqq” and “Soul Call Paul” Vivari, who are all doing their best to keep classic era vibes locally relevant in the modern era. As well, her skills and talent have afforded her the chance to play gigs at venues as diverse as U Street’s Velvet Lounge and Brookland’s Dew Drop Inn to the Capital Fringe Festival and the Kennedy Center Atrium. “I’m also still so happy that people know that I do this odd thing and still invite me to do just that at their venue, with zero input or suggestion that I do anything differently.” In full, Baby Alcatraz has carved a unique niche in a difficult market to do so, and is thankful for the opportunity. Catch her at Velvet Lounge’s All-Vinyl Dance Party on July 8 or Shout Bamalama at Haydee’s Restaurant in Mount Pleasant on July 23.
Follow DJ Baby Alcatraz on Twitter: @BabyAlcatraz
By Michael Coleman, Trent Johnson and Jon Kaplan
TUESDAY, JULY 5 WEDNESDAY, JULY 6 Bob Dylan Widely held as one of the greatest songwriters of all time, and one of the most influential, Bob Dylan just keeps going, so much so that his shows are referred to as the “Never Ending Tour.” Despite longevity, Dylan’s best days aren’t behind him, as his new music remains critically-acclaimed. A copy of his latest album, Fallen Angels, is included with a ticket. With Mavis Staples. 7:30 p.m. show. $45-$100. Wolf Trap Filene Center: 1551 Trap Rd. Vienna, VA; www.wolftrap.org
Zella Day Zella Day hails from a small town in the beautiful highdesert mountains north of Phoenix, Ariz., where her parents owned the only coffeehouse in town. Day’s pretty, ethereal songs certainly reflect her organic upbringing. Since, she’s moved to Los Angeles and added modern, electric beats and instrumentation to her folk songs, creating an intriguing hybrid of styles. The fetching chanteuse made a splash at this year’s Coachella festival and her single “Jameson,” about a lover’s fight with alcoholism, generated colossal critical buzz. 7 p.m. show. $20. U Street Music Hall: 1115 U St. NW, DC; www.ustreetmusichall.com
WEDNESDAY, JULY 6
THURSDAY, JULY 7
Greyhounds Austin duo Greyhounds describes their sound as “Hall and Oates meet ZZ Top.” It’s an apt description of the group’s first three albums for Memphis-based Ardent records. Comprised only of guitarist Andrew Trube and singer-keyboardist Anthony Farrell, Greyhounds’ sound is much bigger than the sum of its parts. Texas blues rock hero Gary Clark Jr. – also of Austin – recently tweeted “Greyhounds are crushing it – as usual” during one of their live performances in Los Angeles. With Bobby Thompson. 8 p.m. show. $10-$12. Gypsy Sally’s: 3401 K St. NW, DC; www.gypsysallys.com
Guided by Voices Playing for more than 30 years, Guided by Voices has held one constant – frontman and songwriter Robert Pollard. The Dayton, Ohio indie rock band has released 24 albums, from lo-fi independent releases to major label ones. Now, Pollard is back with a new lineup and album. With Nap Eyes. 7 p.m. doors. $35. 9:30 Club: 815 V St. NW, DC; www.930.com
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SATURDAY, JULY 9 David Bazan David Bazan is best known as the frontman and creative force behind acclaimed indie rockers Pedro the Lion. Bazan set that long-running project aside nearly a decade ago but, as a solo artist, the Seattle native continues to craft deep, dark and often beautiful rock songs that ponder some of life’s big questions through deeply introspective lyrics and swirling sounds. Bazan’s stage show is razor sharp from relentless touring, which promises a dynamic performance at the Black Cat this month. With Laura Gibson, Dave Hill and Church Night. 8 p.m. doors. $20. The Black Cat: 1811 14th St. NW, DC; www.blackcatdc.com Emily King Born and raised in Manhattan’s Lower East Side, Emily King’s music often features soft vocals coupled with peaceful strums of a guitar. Whether you’re able to scurry down to 9:30 and see this soulful vocalist live, or if you’re in need of a gentle tune on the Metro during your commute, you could do far worse than listening to this upcoming NYC native. She even has pop star Sam Smith’s approval: “Unreal talent. In complete awe of this girl.” With PJ Morton. 7 p.m. doors. $25. 9:30 Club: 815 V St. NW, DC; www.930.com
OPEN MIC EVERY TUESDAY IN OUR VINYL LOUNGE
SATURDAY, JULY 9 Budweiser’s Bud & Burgers Music Party Sitting around a record player with family members, you often hear arguments from the different generations about whose music was truly the most wonderful. Mom and Dad relish the big hair and bouncy tunes from the 80s, while you cling to your flannels and faded Nirvana T-shirts and hum 90s jams. With Budweiser’s Bud & Burgers party, music from the 80s, 90s and 2000s will battle it out for attendees. Musical acts include acts The Reflex, As If, Lloyd Dobler Effect, White Ford Bronco, DJ Chris Styles and DJ Pat Premier. Gates open at 11:30 a.m., show from 12-5 p.m. $20-$25. Nationals Park: 1500 S. Capitol St. SE, DC; www.nationals.com/budmusic
Shenandoah Run Shenandoah Run, a nine-piece folk band, often provides twangy tributes to traditional and contemporary folk music with a jolt, but this concert features a hearty dose of sentimental value. A portion of the proceeds go to Montgomery County Partners for Animal Wellness, a partner of the Montgomery County Animal Services & Adoption Center, and the goal is to benefit the animals residing in the shelter. So when you’re out on the floor twostepping to these banjos, enjoy the added good feels of doing so for a cause. 8 p.m. show. $30-$40. AMP by Strathmore: 11810 Grand Park Ave. North Bethesda, MD; www.ampbystrathmore.com
F R I D AY & S AT U R D AY, J U LY 1 & 2
PHISH WEBCAST - LIVE FROM SPAC WEDNESDAY, JULY 6
GREYHOUNDS
THURSDAY, JULY 7
BORN CROSS EYED (GRATEFUL DEAD TRIBUTE), BROKEDOWN HUSTLERS
Every Monday
FRIDAY, JULY 8
NOCODA - LED ZEPPELIN TRIBUTE, ACES IN CHAINS - ALICE IN CHAINS TRIBUTE SATURDAY, JULY 9
THE DAVE KLINE BAND TUESDAY, JULY 12
JOHN KADLECIK & DC MYSTERY CATS WEDNESDAY, JULY 13
KANSAS BIBLE COMPANY THURSDAY, JULY 14
LOS STRAITJACKETS FRIDAY, JULY 15
THE MOVEMENT
July 7/1
As If
7/2
Essential Vybe
TUESDAY, JULY 12
7/8
Sons of Radio
Steely Dan Known for their groundbreaking 1970s albums, Steely Dan took a hiatus from 1981 to 1993. Since then, they’ve been touring and recording, and now they come to our area on their “The Dan Who Knew Too Much Tour 2016.” Also appearing is legendary soul/pop musician Steve Winwood. 7 p.m. show. Tickets start at $32. Jiffy Lube Live: 7800 Cellar Door Dr. Bristow, VA; www.bristowamphitheater.com
7/9
SATURDAY, JULY 16
SKIP CASTRO BAND TUESDAY, JULY 19
JOHN KADLECIK & DC MYSTERY CATS WEDNESDAY, JULY 20
MIDNIGHT NORTH, DOOBIE DECIBEL SYSTEM
Swell Daze
THURSDAY, JULY 21
7/9 UFC 200
THE HILLBILLY GYPSIES
‘Bones’ Jones vs Cormier
FRIDAY, JULY 22
TOM HAMILTON’S AMERICAN BABIES, EAT YER MEAT (PINK FLOYD TRIBUTE)
7/15
Honey Extractor
7/16
Dead Eye Stare
7/22
Cazhmiere
7/23
Here’s to the Night
THURSDAY, JULY 14
7/29
Vertigo Red
Wesley Stace Wesley Stace has used the stage name John Wesley Harding on his previous albums. He took the name from the Bob Dylan album of the same name, which was named after an outlaw named John Wesley Hardin (Dylan added the “g” by accident). Confusing? Yes, but all you need to know is you should go check out this British-born folk/pop singer-songwriter. With Luke Mitchem. 7:30 p.m. show. $20. Jammin’ Java: 227 Maple Ave. E. Vienna, VA; www.jamminjava.com
7/30
Klepto Radio
7/31
UFC 200
SATURDAY, JULY 23
THE CACTUS LIQUORS, HALF STEP TUESDAY, JULY 26
THE DEFIBULATORS WEDNESDAY, JULY 27
LITTLE TYBEE, THE WILD REEDS THURSDAY, JULY 28
MONOPHONICS FRIDAY, JULY 29
BLOODKIN
SATURDAY, JULY 30
JOHN “PAPA” GROS, HONEY ISLAND SWAMP BAND WITH CRIS JACOBS
9811 WASHINGTON BLVD GAITHERSBURG, MD 20877 240.780.7139 UNIONJACKSRIO.COM www.ontaponline.com | July 2016 | On Tap
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Music Picks FRIDAY, JULY 15 Ray Wylie Hubbard As one of the original purveyors of the “outlaw” movement that defined Texas country singer-songwriters in the 1970s, Ray Wylie Hubbard is perhaps best known for writing “Up Against the Wall, Redneck Mother” – a song made famous by Jerry Jeff Walker. More than 40 years later, Hubbard remains a potent musical force. His 2015 release, The Ruffian’s Misfortune, delivered some gritty, hard-rocking country and blues numbers, punctuated by odes to muscle cars and female rockers like Joan Jett and Chrissie Hynde. The album also made several critics’ year-end lists of best releases of 2015. 9:30 p.m. $22-$35. Hill Country BBQ: 410 7th St. NW, DC; www.hillcountrywdc.com
SATURDAY, JULY 16 Vans Warped Tour The longestrunning music festival in America – billed as “punk rock summer camp on wheels” –stops at Merriweather Post Pavilion this month to showcase dozens of energetic young rock bands, as well as the occasional hip-hop artist. Among the big draws this year are Falling in Reverse, Four Year Strong, Less Than Jake, New Found Glory, Reel Big Fish, Set It Off, Sum 41, We the Kings and Yellowcard. It’s hard to believe it’s been 19 years since this perennial summer tour first launched, and it’s always fun to see which of the young up-and-comers will use the festival as a springboard to greater national recognition. 11 a.m. doors. $41.50$51.50. Merriweather Post Pavilion: 10475 Little Patuxent Pkwy. Columbia, MD; www. merriweathermusic.com
SUNDAY, JULY 17 Curtis McMurtry Curtis McMurtry’s father, James, is one of America’s finest songwriters, and it seems the younger McMurtry paid close attention growing up. His debut solo album, Respectable Enemy,
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chronicles the lives of unapologetically bitter people still haunted by the ghosts of lovers and former friends. From the doomed narrator of “Foxhole” to the resigned nostalgia of “Eleanor’s House,” McMurtry’s songs aim to break your heart. The young singer-songwriter earned a degree in ethnomusicology from Sarah Lawrence College, and the classical training shows in his uncommon craftsmanship. 8 p.m. show. $12. IOTA Club & Cafe: 2832 Wilson Blvd. Arlington, VA; www.iotaclubandcafe.com Sunday Funday with Honor by August and Air Traffic Controller In recent years, the term “Sunday Funday” has become part of the vernacular among Americans who prefer to keep their weekend party going until the end. Local musical favorites Honor by August and Boston’s Air Traffic Controller will provide the soundtrack to the good times on the third Sunday of this month. Michael Pearsall, Honor by August’s lead vocalist and guitarist, knows how to work the stage. Plus, the band has packed the 9:30 Club and shared stages with Bon Jovi and Third Eye Blind. Air Traffic Controller’s eclectic song catalog and category-defying organic, electronic sound earned them a spot on NPR’s “hotlist” at last year’s SXSW in Austin. 6:30 p.m. show. $20-$30. Jammin’ Java: 227 Maple Ave. E. Vienna, VA; www.jamminjava. com
TUESDAY, JULY 19 Azealia Banks Twitter’s queen of confrontation is about to set the Black Cat stage ablaze with furious rhymes and beautiful melodies. Regardless of your opinion on her social media presence, Banks’ penchant for creating dope music is undeniable, with award nominations from BET, Billboard and BBC. Even though she hasn’t produced an album since 2014’s Broke with Expensive Taste, the Manhattan native has tallied up a number of singles and features since. If her live shows are half as explosive as her Twitter feed, then this is a must-see. 7:30 p.m. doors. $30. Black Cat: 1811 14th St. NW, DC; www.blackcatdc.com
THURSDAY, JULY 21 EmiSunshine EmiSunshine (born Emilie Sunshine Hamilton) is a country singer from Tennessee whose videos have gone viral, and she’s only 11 years old. Whether singing her “old time music” on NBC’s Today show, at the Grand Ole Opry or taking the stage at Nashville’s historic Ryman Auditorium, she is fearless, confident and firm in her musical direction. 7:30 p.m. show. $15. Jammin’ Java: 227 Maple Ave. E. Vienna, VA; www.jamminjava.com
FRIDAY, JULY 22 The Bacon Brothers You know one of the brothers, at least. Kevin Bacon of film, TV and the “Six Degrees of Kevin Bacon” game. But you may not know that he’s a musician too, and has been playing with his brother Michael as The Bacon Brothers since 1995. Their blend of folk, rock, soul and country continues to impress and make people realize Kevin isn’t just a movie star. Also appearing Saturday and Sunday; tickets are currently available for Friday and Sunday. 7:30 p.m. show. $45. The Birchmere: 3701 Mt. Vernon Ave. Alexandria, VA; www.birchmere.com Lera Lynn Americana singer Lera Lynn got a jump start on her career when she was tapped to be involved in the second season of HBO’s hit show True Detective. She appeared as a barroom singer and contributed original songs to the show’s soundtrack, which she wrote with T Bone Burnett and Rosanne Cash. Her newest album is this year’s Resistor. With Andrew Combs. 8 p.m. $15-$35. The Hamilton: 600 14th St. NW, DC; http://live. thehamiltondc.com
Trixie Whitley The late postmodern bluesman Chris Whitley was a genre-bending troubadour, and his daughter, Trixie, has apparently inherited the knack. A former house music DJ, Whitley’s musical stylings vary, reflecting electronica, R&B, folk and the chaos of punk rock. Flaunting a strong and emotional alto singing voice, Whitley has worked with iconic producer Daniel Lanois and shared stages with Bob Dylan, Neil Young and Emmylou Harris. If you like the sound of Grace Potter, Susan Tedeschi or even Adele, check out Whitley’s set this month at Rock & Roll Hotel. 8 p.m. show. $15. Rock & Roll Hotel: 1353 H St. NE, DC; www.rockandrollhoteldc.com Sufjan Stevens Getting praise from Pitchfork is sometimes a difficult task for an upcoming artist, but for Sufjan Stevens, it was par for the course as he continues to stack up accolades on his proverbial mantle. With soothing vocals and an almost timid pace, Stevens produces thoughtful lyrics on subjects like love, family and death. With heavy subject matter, it’s paramount that his music maintain an ounce of joy, and this indie artist straddles this line as well as any. With Thao & The Get Down Stay Down. 8 p.m. show. $35-$65. Wolf Trap Filene Center: 1551 Trap Rd. Vienna, VA; www.wolftrap.org
SATURDAY, JULY 23 B.J. the Chicago Kid A slew of high-profile hip-hop collaborators – Big K.R.I.T., Chance the Rapper and Grammy Award winner Kendrick Lamar among them – helped put B.J. the Chicago Kid on the musical map. But the young artist is a soul singer at heart. He released his major label debut – the modern yet deeply soulful In My Mind – on Motown earlier this year, and in May he contributed to the label’s new Marvin Gaye tribute album. B.J. the Chicago Kid comes from a long line of soul singers who honed their craft in a church choir, but his hip-hop sensibility gives the music a streetwise swagger. With Elhae and Tish Hyman. 7 p.m. show. $20. U Street Music Hall: 1115 U St. NW, DC; www.ustreetmusichall.com Brandi Carlile & Old Crow Medicine Show with Dawes This triple bill at Wolf Trap might just be the Americana show of the summer. Carlile is a singer-songwriter of the first order who can shift from emotive and plaintive to exuberant and hard-rocking in the space of a single song. Old Crow Medicine Show’s most famous tune is the undeniably catchy “Wagon Wheel,” but they have a deep catalogue of inspired, organic roots music. Dawes has emerged as a worthy successor to the Laurel Canyon-inspired sound created by Jackson Browne, Graham Parsons, Townes Van Zandt and others in 1970s-era Southern California. 6:30 p.m. show. $45-$75. Merriweather Post Pavilion: 10475 Little Patuxent Pkwy. Columbia, MD; www.merriweathermusic.com
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Music Picks Joseph Arthur Hailing from Akron, Ohio, Joseph Arthur has released more than 13 albums and EPs – and also works as an artist and designer. Arthur is praised by fans and fellow musicians alike, having been discovered by Peter Gabriel in the mid-90s and signed to his Real World label. He also has side projects Fistful of Mercy with Dhani Harrison and Ben Harper, and RNDM with Pearl Jam’s Jeff Ament. Check out brand new songs from his most recent album, The Family, at Jammin’ Java. 6:30 p.m. show. $18. Jammin’ Java: 227 Maple Ave. E. Vienna, VA; www.jamminjava.com
TUESDAY, JULY 26 Huey Lewis & The News Huey Lewis started out as an engineering student at Cornell University, and if he had stayed, things would’ve turned out very differently. Cornell’s loss became our gain, as Lewis churned out the hits in the 80s. Songs like “I Want a New Drug” and “If This Is It” were MTV and radio staples, and Lewis refuses to stop. With Jamie Kent. 8 p.m. show. $25-$50. Wolf Trap Filene Center: 1551 Trap Rd. Vienna, VA; www.wolftrap.org
THURSDAY, JULY 28 Case/Lang/Veirs With an album just released, this one-of-a-kind tour is not one to miss. A supergroup featuring Neko Case (known for her solo albums and also her work with New Pornographers), k.d. lang (four-time Grammy winner) and Laura Veirs (indie folk star), this project began with a simple email from lang to the others saying “I think we should make a record together.” With Andy Shauf. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. doors. $59-$79. The Lincoln Theatre: 1215 U St. NW, DC; www.thelincolndc.com
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Quilt Brooklyn-based Quilt released their third album, Plaza, last year and the band’s neo-psychedelic sound continues to gain major acclaim in the national press. It’s sometimes difficult to tell whether the band is intentionally retro or simply churning out creative new interpretations of classic sounds that evoke The Doors, The Mamas & the Papas and Jefferson Airplane. The instrumentation is tight and lead singer Anna Fox Rochinski’s smooth, sultry voice – complimented by sometimes soaring harmonies from her bandmates – commands your attention. With Big Thief. $15. 8 p.m. show. Rock & Roll Hotel: 1353 H St. NE, DC; www.rockandrollhoteldc.com Swans Swans is an experimental rock band that came out of New York City’s “no wave” movement in the early 1980s and lasted until 1997, when they disbanded. In 2010, the underground legends reunited and continue to make their unique brand of noisy, avant-garde music. Led by singer, songwriter and multiinstrumentalist Michael Gira, Swans are known for experimental instrumentation and repetitive song structures. The group counts The Stooges, Brian Eno and early Pink Floyd as influences. Gira has described the band’s name as synonymous with its music: “Swans are majestic, beautiful looking creatures… with really ugly temperaments.” With Okkyung Lee. 7 p.m. doors. $35. 9:30 Club: 815 V St. NW, DC; www.930.com
Femi Kuti & The Positive Force The son of legendary Afrobeat pioneer Fela Kuti, Femi Kuti carries on his great father’s legacy. Starting at the age of 15 in his father’s band, Femi has been carving his own path ever since. He’s toured with Red Hot Chili Peppers and Jane’s Addiction, and even opened his own club called The Shrine in his native Lagos, Nigeria. With DJ Dlaspora. 8 p.m. doors. $35. 9:30 Club: 815 V St. NW, DC; www.930.com
SATURDAY, JULY 30 Rich Robinson Since the seemingly permanent breakup of The Black Crowes, guitarist Rich Robinson has emerged as an accomplished solo artist with four studio records to his name. The iconic, muscular style that Robinson displayed with the Crowes still shows up from time-to-time, but his solo work is often quieter, with more of a folk and even gospel feel. Rich Robinson can’t match the vocal prowess of his brother, Chris, who established himself as one of the greatest rock vocalists of all time during his tenure with the Crowes. But, he’s a competent singer-songwriter whose instrumental prowess more than makes up for his workmanlike singing. With Bonnie Bishop. 8 p.m. show. $18-$28. The Hamilton: 600 14th St. NW, DC; http://live.thehamiltondc.com
FRIDAY, JULY 29 Bloodkin It’s rare for a band to go nearly 30 years and still fly under the commercial radar. Bloodkin has not only survived, but thrived in their adopted hometown – the musical mecca of Athens, Ga. Southern rock infuses Bloodkin’s sound, but their ragged, guitar-driven tunes also owe a debt to blues and, occasionally, even punk rock. With Koa. 9 p.m. show. $12-$14. Gypsy Sally’s: 3401 K St. NW, DC; www.gypsysallys.com
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SATURDAY, SEPT. 17, 2016 @ JIFFY LUBE LIVE, BRISTOW, VA. ON SALE MONDAY, JUNE 27, AT 10 A.M. AT LIVENATION.COM, THE BOX OFFICE OR 800–745–3000
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