On Tap Magazine // July 2018

Drink. Dine. Do. July 2018

CREATIVE TASTEMAKERS , HIPPEST HOODS INSTAWORTHY INTERIORS SWATCHROOM’S WARREN WEIXLER & MAGGIE O’NEILL

THE

DESIGN ISSUE

+ PATTON OSWALT I TITANIC: THE UNTOLD STORY I SUMMER BREWS & BBQ

Photos: Beauty by Photography

The Wharf hosted a prelude to Capital Pride Festival on Saturday, June 9. Pride on the Pier, presented by the Washington Blade, featured specially themed cocktails at a waterfront beer and wine garden and a live DJ along the water.

INSPIRED. INNOVATIVE. INCANTO. LIMITED APARTMENT RESIDENCES REMAINING AT THE WHARF

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Table of Contents who is on tap?

JULY 2018: Vol 20 No 9 The design issue Drink. Dine. Do. July 2018

CREATIVE TASTEMAKERS , HIPPEST HOODS INSTAWORTHY INTERIORS SWATCHROOM’S WARREN WEIXLER & MAGGIE O’NEILL

THE

DESIGN ISSUE

+ PATTON OSWALT I TITANIC: THE UNTOLD STORY I SUMMER BREWS & BBQ

The first aspect of DC design that comes to mind is probably its monuments, including the famed Washington Monument and stoic Lincoln Monument. Aside from these mainstay attractions, the DMV offers a variety of beauts in the world of unique and clever design. Our cover models, Maggie O’Neill and Warren Weixler of Swatchroom, run a design, art and fabrication firm in Shaw. The duo has garnered much buzz for their interior design and installations found throughout the city. We also take a look at neighborhoods in the area that take pride in their chic appearanaces whether its restaurants, apartments or public works of art. And we didn’t forget the music venues, new and old, that offer diverse looks and feels for concert attendees. We also have a great issue outside of the world of design, including a look at what makes sour the designated brew of summer and National Geographic’s Titanic: The Untold Story exhibit. Lastly, we provide a lowdown on live entertainment, including chats with comeidan Patton Oswalt and indie rockers Knox Hamilton.

On the cover: Swatchroom’s Warren Weixler and Maggie O’Neill

Designer: Alanna Sheppard Photo: Violetta Markelou

District of Design

A Day in the Life

Hippest ‘Hoods in the DMV

Swatchroom’s Dynamic Duo

Cultivating Culture by Design.. ............ 4 District of Design.................................... 6 A Day in the Life with Swatchroom. . .... 22 Did You Know?. . ..................................... 24 Drink, Dine, Do...................................... 26 Titanic: The Untold Story.................... 66

n Sports MLB All-Star Week. . ............................... 42

n Dining Fire Up The Grill. . ................................... 46 New & Notable.. ..................................... 50

n Drinks

54

66

Summer Sours

Titanic: The Untold Story

The Art of Acidic Brews

Inside Nat Geo’s New Exhibit

Summer Sours....................................... 54 What’s On Tap?...................................... 56 10 Instaworthy Bar Designs. . .............. 60 Behind the Bar....................................... 64

n Stage & Screen Stage & Screen Events......................... 68 World-Premiere Play Dave.................. 70 Patton Oswalt at Kennedy Center. . ... 72

n Music

72

74

NoVa Native Patton Oswalt

Music Venues with a View

Headlines Kennedy Center

The DMV’s Diverse Sonic Designs

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On Tap | JULY 2018 | www.ontaponline.com

jennifer@ontaponline.com

Managing Editor Monica Alford

monica@ontaponline.com

Assistant Editor Trent Johnson trent@ontaponline.com

Print & Digital Design Nick Caracciolo Devin Overbey Alanna Sheppard KEY ACCOUNT MANAGER Tom Roth tomroth@ontaponline.com

natalia@ontaponline.com

n July ROundup

22

Publisher Jennifer Currie

Account Executive Natalia Kolenko

In this Issue

6

Founder James Currie

Music Venues with a View.. ................. 74 What’s NUEX?. . ....................................... 76 Knox Hamilton at Gypsy Sally’s ........ 78 Music Picks............................................. 80

Digital & Advertising coordinator Kayla Marsh kayla@ontaponline.com

Events & promotions manager Shannon Darling shannon@ontaponline.com

Events & promotions ASSISTANT Katie Seaman katies@ontaponline.com

OUTREACH COORDINATOR Kelcie Glass kelcie@ontaponline.com

Contributing Writers

Lani Furbank, Jon Kaplan, M.K. Koszycki, Keith Loria, Michael Loria, Haley McKey, Travis Mitchell, Aja Neal, Fareeha Rehman, Courtney Sexton, Amanda Weisbrod

Contributing Photographers

Beauty by Photography, J. Boches, Shantel Mitchell Breen, John Gervasi, Michelle Goldchain, Mike Kim, M.K. Koszycki, Aja Neal, Devin Overbey, Loren Probish, Mark Raker, Fareeha Rehman, Mark Van Bergh On Tap Magazine is published 11 times per year. ©2018 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. Go to www.ontaponline.com for more information.

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Photo: Jason Hornick Photography, DCPL Archives

By Amanda Weisbrod There’s more to DC than meets the eye. At first glance, behemoth monuments and countless museums seem like the capital’s main culture source, but they’re really just a small fraction of its identity. Beneath the surface, a dedicated collective of artists, designers and historians join forces to bring the true heart of the city to light. Organizations like DC Preservation League (DCPL) and MuralsDC work tirelessly to showcase the best of DC’s unique and rich history by protecting old and creating new cultural sites for Washingtonians to enjoy.

DCPL began its mission to “preserve, protect and enhance the historic and built environment of DC through advocacy and education” in 1971 when an activist group, Don’t Tear It Down, formed to save the 1899 Old Post Office on Pennsylvania Avenue from demolition. After saving the post office and a number of other sites in the 70s, Don’t Tear It Down rebranded themselves as the DC Preservation League in 1984. Over the past 40 years, DCPL has sponsored more than 200 historic landmarks for nomination to the DC Inventory of Historic Sites.

Rebecca Miller, executive director of DCPL, says preserving historical sites is important not only for understanding the history and development of a city, but also for having a better cultural understanding of everyday people from the past.

“Sites with cultural significance need

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On Tap | JULY 2018 | www.ontaponline.com

to be preserved so that we as a society understand that not every great person lived in the big classical house on the hill,” she says. “Everyday people, who lived in everyday buildings, have done significant things that have led to the world as we know it today; some of these sites deserve to be recognized and preserved as well.”

DCPL is currently working toward diversifying the types of historical sites they protect, including sites important to the African American Civil Rights and LGBTQ+ communities.

“Often, the history of these groups of people have been left out of the conversation, and it’s time that we document all people’s history and culture,” Miller says.

To Miller, the “perceived uniqueness” of DC’s architecture and design stems from its position as the nation’s capital. However, one of the most important factors in the city’s building design is the 1910 Height of Buildings Act – legislation restricting building heights to the width of the street it fronts plus 20 feet, as long as they aren’t taller than 130 feet, according to the National Capital Planning Commission. The Old Post Office Building was grandfathered in after the original act passed in 1899, and remains as the tallest high-rise federal building in the city.

“We try to paint each mural as a reminder of who we were, who we are and who we’re trying to be as a city.”

Photo: Courtesy of MuralsDC

As DCPL guards DC’s culture by preserving historical sites, MuralsDC protects neighborhoods from illegal graffiti with unique and beautiful murals painted by local artists. As a project funded by the DC Department of Public works in 2007, MuralsDC has sponsored more than 50 projects across the city, engaging District youths along the way by teaching them the art of aerosol.

Christopher Shorter, director of the Department of Public Works (DPW), says although MuralDC’s main goal is to keep the city clean by deterring vandalism, they also focus on featuring the cultures of each unique neighborhood.

“MuralsDC makes a point to deliver a sense of history and a personal statement about each community to the city’s art scene,” Shorter says.

“We try to paint each mural as a reminder of who we were, who we are and who we’re trying to be as a city.”

To Shorter, DC’s art and design scene is becoming as prominent as its monuments and museums. By transforming alleyways from shortcuts to destinations, residents and visitors can connect with and learn more about neighborhoods they might not have been to before.

“When MuralsDC paints an original work of art on the side of the building, we’ve done more than just help to eliminate graffiti,” he says.

“We’ve provided an amazing gift to the community.”

MuralsDC’s last project was on Half Street in the Capitol Riverfront neighborhood. The property owner of Friendly Food Market wanted to bring the neighbors together, so naturally, a beautiful mural came to mind. As artist Eric B. Ricks decorated the building’s side, community members would gather around to ask him questions and speak to one another about the mural’s significance.

“That speaks to the power of public art,” Shorter says. “It can bring a community together and evoke a sense of pride. But most of all, it’s a great way for DPW to show DC communities that we don’t just work in the community – we really care about the community.”

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Includes:

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Tickets available at Pearl Street Warehouse, online, or at the box office!

Learn more about these DC organizations that enhance and beautify the city’s culture.

DC Preservation League: www.dcpreservation.org MuralsDC: www.muralsdcproject.com

960 Wharf Street SW | www.cantinabambina.com www.ontaponline.com | JULY 2018 | On Tap

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By M.K. Koszycki Good, purposeful design makes a difference. Whether you’re dining at a new foodie spot, taking in views from a rooftop or exploring the art-covered exteriors of a city block, our surroundings have the ability to alter our feelings like few other elements can. Luckily, the DC area has no shortage of gorgeous spaces where you can live, work and play. We gathered essential design intel in six different neighborhoods and picked some of our favorite spots, so you can be surrounded by great style no matter where your day takes you.

Dacha Beer Garden’s Elizabeth Taylor Mural Painted by muralist Byron Peck, Dacha Beer Garden is home to this mural of the iconic actress and humanitarian. While DC is a city known for its large paintings of famous celebrities such as President Barack Obama, Prince and Marvin Gaye, this mural is definitely among the must-visit-in-person variety.

1600 7th St. NW, DC; www.dachadc.com

Photos: Trent Johnson

Shaw Library Nestled on the corner of 7th Street, the Shaw Neighborhood Library sports a creative triangular shape with glass windows and a multicolored piece of abstract art waving you into the modern, chic building. Whether you’re a bookworm or not, this library provides a unique twist on a local institution. 1630 7th St. NW, DC; www.dclibrary.org/watha

Bresca After inspiration from a trip to Iceland, Ryan Ratino was determined to give Bresca a clean, bold and charming look. And with the help of Richard Marcus Architects, the vision was fulfilled. The design includes a moss wall that allows guests to engage with the natural world and honeycomb accents that are a nod to Ratino’s playful personality and the restaurant’s emblem. 1906 14th St. NW, DC; www.brescadc.com Hazel With dark wood and natural light aplenty, this interior designed by Catherine Hailey Design is extremely inviting. The strung lights by artist Rick Singleton are especially eye-catching.

Rounding out the patio are comfortable stretches of faux grass accompanied by comfortable seating for lounging and dining.

808 V St. NW, DC; www.hazelrestaurant.com

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On Tap | JULY 2018 | www.ontaponline.com

Photos: Rey Lopez

Muralist Lisa Maria Thalhammer, “LOVE” On Tap: What was the inspiration behind this piece?

Lisa Marie Thalhammer: Cultivating love and inspiring people to actually really care about others is the mission behind my “LOVE” artwork series. I truly believe that love is at the core of every social issue. I hope that my “LOVE” mural and signs encourage viewers to see the humanity in people that they differ from in order to come together to find a common ground that respects human rights. As an activist and member of the LGBTQ+ community, my artworks frequently represent humans in positions of strength and hope. The seven primary and secondary colors represent the chakra energy centers of the body and the accompanying tertiary colors represent interconnectivity. My mural repeats this 13-color spectrum geometrically to indicate each letter of the word “love” on four separate garage doors.

OT: Your piece has become one of the most Instagrammable murals in the city, with locals and visitors seeking it out.

How does it feel to be responsible for such a popular work of art?

LMT: I feel honored and humbled by the public’s response to my “LOVE” artwork. It inspires me to keep doing this work of adding color and balance to the world through public art and murals.

I’m now imagining a “LOVE” mural campaign that would take my “LOVE” series to other places that need healing.

Follow Lisa Marie Thalhammer’s art online at www.lisamariestudio.com and on Instagram at @lisamariestudio.

“LOVE”; © 2017; Lisa Marie Thalhammer; Commissioned and funded by the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities, DC Creates Public Art Building Communities Program.

Located in DC Alley Museum: Blagden Alley, 926 N St. near NW, DC

Muralist Rose Jaffe, “Let.Go” On Tap: What was the inspiration behind this mural? What is its significance?

Rose Jaffe: This mural was inspired by a more personal theme than most of my other work. The past few years have involved a deep dive into healing, both mentally and physically. After years of Western medicine, I turned toward Eastern modalities and empowered myself to embrace natural forms of healing from meditation to medicinal plants. The two flowers on the wall are arnica and echinacea – two powerful healing flowers. The idea of letting go – releasing the bird – is a symbol for releasing what no longer serves us, and allowing movement into new stages of life.

OT: There are a lot of excellent murals and works of art in Shaw now. How do you feel the area has changed over the years?

RJ: The area, like many neighborhoods in Washington, has gentrified. And with that comes displacement of the communities that lived there before. There are good and bad parts to a changing neighborhood. I try and focus on what role I am playing in the movement of DC and shed light on the importance of maintaining strong and diverse communities by creating spaces for art.

To learn more about Jaffe’s art, visit her at http://rosejaffe.myportfolio.com and on Instagram at @rose_inks.

Photo: Aja Neal www.ontaponline.com | JULY 2018 | On Tap

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Looking to live the carless life?

86 percent of NoMa residents walk, bike or take public transport to work.

City Winery Mural DC artist Aniekan Udofia is responsible for this explosive depiction of the flavor grapes can have. The popping purple provides a terrific contrast to the white brick canvas and can be admired before or after a glass of wine.

1350 Okie St. NE, DC; www.citywinery.com/ washingtondc/

Photos: Trent Johnson

Heart Wall A mural from French artist Mr. Brainwash (we swear that’s what he’s called), the multicolored hearts provide a burst of color on the white Union Market walls. This famous backdrop has been featured in numerous publications, and also caught the attention of Michelle Obama. 1309 5th St. NE, DC; www.unionmarketdc.com Yoko Ono x Hirshhorn If you’ve visited Union Market in the past year, Yoko Ono’s message reading “Relax. Your Heart Is Stronger Than What You Think!” is hard to miss. Using Ono’s text and minimalist style, the artwork is meant to compel folks to be adventurous and further consider what the heart wants. 1309 5th St. NE, DC; www.unionmarketdc.com

NoMa was the first neighborhood in DC to offer free outdoor WiFi. NoMa is home to many major companies and organizations including NPR, Google, CNN, Sirius XM, REI, Mathematica Policy Research, NeighborWorks and the World Resources Institute.

Hecht Warehouse in Ivy City is not only home to brand new apartments, but also drinking and dining destinations like One Eight Distilling, Atlas Brew Works and Big Chief are just down the block.

Historic Hecht Warehouse Hecht Warehouse, originally built in 1937, was purchased by Douglas Development in 2011 and redeveloped into a mixed-use retail and residential complex in 2016. Maintaining its Streamline Moderne style, the warehouse now offers more than 300 residential units with twists on the era it’s from, including concrete flooring, subway-tiled bathrooms, exposed brick and oversized glass block windows. There’s also a speakeasy clubroom with billiards. Even if you’re not in the market for a new apartment, this building is a shining example of how to refresh rather than restart.

1401 New York Ave. NE, DC; www.hechtwarehouse.com

Union Market is home to some of DC’s best foodie spots as well, and the area frequently hosts other events at Dock5 next door.

Facts provided by NoMa BID, and the Hecht Warehouse and Union Market websites

Photo: Courtesy of Hecht Warehouse

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On Tap | JULY 2018 | www.ontaponline.com

The NoMa Parks Foundation is developing great public spaces throughout the neighborhood.

First up: Swampoodle Park, an 8,000-square-foot space at the corner of 3rd and L Streets Northeast that will include a dog park and children’s play structure. Later this year, the nonprofit will begin construction on a 2.5-acre park above New York Avenue that will serve as the neighborhood’s backyard and offer outdoor space for recreation and community gatherings. And in the underpasses at L and M Streets, compelling light installations that resulted from an international design competition are being installed.

Photo: Ron Ngiam

CORE Project Architect Christopher Peli, Cotton & Reed On Tap: Cotton & Reed is DC’s first ever rum distillery. How did that unique aspect factor into the design of the space?

Christopher Peli: What most influenced the design is not so much the rum – it could be vodka or gin – but that Cotton & Reed makes their product from scratch. Being a small startup distillery and owning the process was a conscious decision, so the design had to allow for processing and storage.

OT: Was there a conscious decision to keep the door relatively unmarked? Did it have anything to do with the low-key location among other more industrial buildings?

CP: Cotton & Reed were the first ones to be a part of this new generation of Union Market redevelopment – and they wanted to blend in with the existing neighborhood. To reflect other business signage in the area, they made a conscious decision to place the “Distillery” sign on the roof. There’s also a blade sign with the company name, perpendicular to the façade, which you see as you walk along the street.

OT: Was keeping some industrial, open ceilings an intentional shout-out to Union Market’s history, or was that more of a functional decision?

CP: The design definitely emphasizes the volume of the space. We

even reinstalled the skylight, so the façade is now as open as it was before. We made the design elements in the space discreet boxes within the larger volume. For example, we didn’t take the bathroom walls all the way up to the ceiling.

OT: What was it like designing a space that’s part bar, part distillery?

CP: Our mantra as we designed the space was “don’t fight the building.” There could have been more structural intervention, but cost was a factor. Luckily, the space worked perfectly for the function Cotton & Reed needed. The one-story section in the front seemed a natural fit for the bar and the two-story back space worked well for the distillery.

OT: What is the overall feeling you and the team are trying to evoke with the design and layout of Cotton & Reed?

CP: We wanted to evoke the feeling that nature was taking over an abandoned industrial space. We captured this by combining the reclaimed or recaptured industrial space with plant life and botanicals.

For more information about CORE, visit www.coredc.com.

Cotton & Reed: 1330 5th St. NE, DC; www.cottonandreed.com www.ontaponline.com | JULY 2018 | On Tap

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Canal Park Fountains The Dancing Fountains located in the Southern block of Canal Park are a summer exclusive, as the area transforms into an ice rink when the weather chills. While this isn’t the only pretty picture available in the park, the fountains vibe with the warmer season aesthetic. 200 M St. SE, DC Dock 79 Sculptures Completed in 2016, these painted steel sculptures stick out like a pleasant thumb, providing must-see stop across the street from Nationals Park. Think yellow is not your color?

Give the vibrant shade another shot while posing with these powerful installations.

79 Potomac Ave. SE, DC

Photo: Courtesy of 1221 Van

1221 Van Designed by Hariri Pontarini Architects, 1221 Van encompasses contemporary, sleek living in the Capitol Riverfront neighborhood.

With easy access to the Ballpark District, a community featuring restaurants, retail and entertainment, you’re a beat away from all of the fun.

The interiors offer a warm, modern aesthetic, providing a soothing comfort. Some of the features include wood-inspired flooring, kitchens complete with stainless steel appliances, quartz countertops, high-end fixtures and spa-inspired baths – combine that with the splendid rooftop view of DC’s top monuments, Nationals Park and the Anacostia River. 1221 Van St. SE, DC; www.1221van.com

The neighborhood has 52 local and national restaurants with seven on the way later this year.

There are 15 residential rooftops in the neighborhood, and some even have dog parks.

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Photos: Trent Johnson

Pedestrian Bridge Finished in 2010, the 200-foot pedestrian bridge connecting restaurants and other establishments to Yards Park is a dazzling, spherical structure. Whether day or night, the geometric piece of art can serve as the backdrop to a picture of people or a standalone Instagram post by itself. 300 Water St. SE, DC Pepco Substation Mural Sitting across from the newly completed Audi Field, these abstract murals are multicolored and easily absorbed by both art aficionados and those who like a good distraction. Artist Katherine Mann is responsible for these vivid movements. Across from Audi Field, 100 Potomac Ave. SW, DC Top of the Yard Selfie Square The little red square pictured isn’t the art; it’s simply a marker where folks can stand and get a full-on view of Nats Park. Without buildings or other obstructions in the way, the view is crystal clear, and makes for a perfect background for any baseball fan. 1265 First St. SE, DC

The Capitol Riverfront area has 10.5 acres designated for public parks.

The Washington Navy Yard Campus, founded in 1799, is the longest continually operating Navy facility in the U.S.

On Tap | JULY 2018 | www.ontaponline.com

Photo: Courtesy of Capitol Riverfront

You can easily run a 5K through Capitol Riverfront. The loop around the Anacostia River bounded by the 11th Street Bridge and Frederick Douglass Memorial Bridge is equal to five kilometers.

D.C. United’s new Audi Field is only 1.3 miles from the National Mall and 780 feet from the Anacostia River.

Facts provided by the Capitol Riverfront BID

FRIDAY NIGHT CONCERT SERIES 2018

New Time

New

4th Street

3rd Street

y Ave

Jerse

Motown

1st Street

Jimi Smooth & HitTime

Right on the Boardwalk!

Half Street

7/6

7-9pm at Yards Park | 355 Water Street SE

Tingey Street

7/13

19th Street Band

Americana

7/20

Jeff From Accounting

Pop Hits

7/27

Trailer Grass Orchestra

Bluegrass Party

N Street

Nationals Park

Yards Park

ac

om Pot

8/3

Practically Einstein

Rock

8/10

Party Like It’s

Pop Hits

8/17

La Unica

Latin Rock

8/24

U.S. Navy Band “Country Current”

Country/Bluegrass

Water Street

Ave

Anacostia River

Beer & Wine Available Onsite

(must be 21+ no outside alcohol)

yardspark.org | capitolriverfront.org | @CapitolRiverfront | @YardsParkDC | #CapRiv

Navy Yard

Photo: Courtesy of District Winery

Photo: Rey Lopez

Michael Mason and Cristian Rosa on RASA Indian Grill Members of DC design and architecture studio HapstakDemetriou+ talk the lavish looks of two of their Capital Riverfront projects, District Winery and RASA Indian Grill.

Bill Young on District Winery On Tap: Tell me about the impressive installation of 5,000 wine bottles in the mezzanine of District Winery.

Bill Young: We approached this project with a mezzanine level in mind. It was critical to create additional square footage for a landing zone, giving patrons the ability to transition from event use to reception use on the second floor. The mezzanine level also gave us access to the second level of the two-story storage jewel boxes.

These towers were designed to provide the extra, much-needed wine bottle storage in a thermally contained enclosure.

OT: What is the overall aesthetic of the winery?

BY: During the design process, the idea of the wooden beams and columns derived from a visit to an older winery in Virginia wine country where an old wooden barn was converted into a tasting room. There was a sense of warmth in this setting that I didn’t necessarily want to recreate, but rather reinvestigate.

OT: Why did you decided to include a colorful wall of presidents in the restaurant space?

BY: We knew this wall was always going to showcase artwork that speaks to DC. The artist of the piece “Dads of Democracy” is Damon Dewitt who worked for Brooklyn Winery, the owner’s first winery in NYC. OT: There are no other spaces in DC like District Winery. What were the challenges and advantages to working on a project like this?

BY: It’s exciting to be working on anything “first.” It allows for some type of non-preconceived notion in design approach. Essentially, our clients gave us great insight into what to expect in operational organizations since they have experience from their first urban winery in NY, but to create something in the magnitude of three massive programs in one space is challenging.

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On Tap: The overall feeling of RASA is very colorful, whimsical and inviting. What was it like to evoke this overall aesthetic in a restaurant through design?

Michael Mason & Cristian Rosa: Striking the right balance of color and whimsy was a challenge. Much like when you want to serve very colorful food on dishware that best allows the colors to be fully expressed, the architecture of the space needed to be largely neutral with colors of greys, blacks and warm taupes to really allow the colorful elements to shine to their full brilliance.

OT: Can you tell me more about the art and why it was chosen?

MM & CR: The name RASA has many interconnected stories behind it. Coincidentally, [it contains] the first two letters of each of the owners’ names, but in Sanskrit “rasa” relates to “the essence of all” and “gives life meaning.” It influences art, music, literature and dance, among many others. Here the nine rasas are reflected in the flow and movement of the design in the space itself, and especially in the in the art so kindly provided by [co-owner] Sahil Rahman’s aunt Nandita Madan. Each of the nine paintings correspond to the nine rasas that are “the essence of all of our emotions”: love, joy, wonder, courage, peace, sadness, anger, fear and disgust.

OT: There are some other unique design touches in RASA, like the colorful bakeware used behind the counter and the coconut shell drinks. How did the use of things like this factor into the design as a whole?

MM & CR: The branding, menus, signage and the way the food is displayed all works together with the architecture and the interior design to define and reinforce the brand as a whole. The fun elements of the colorful bakeware were set against a black countertop to let them truly radiate, and the coconut shell drinks are all part of the larger story of a whole that balances on the unique touches.

For more on HapstakDemetrieou+, visit www.hd-ad.com and follow them on Instagram at @hapstakdemetriou. HapstakDemetriou+: 2715 M St. NW, DC For more on District Winery, visit www.districtwinery.com and follow them on Instagram at @districtwinery. District Winery: 385 Water St. SE, DC For more on RASA, visit www.rasagrill.com and follow them on Instagram at @rasa. RASA: 1247 First St. SE, DC

On Tap | JULY 2018 | www.ontaponline.com

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Del Mar Paying tribute to Mallorca, Spain, restaurateurs Maria and Fabio Trabocchi wanted their Southwest waterfront dining room to be as authentically Spanish as possible. With Spanish interior designers, the restaurant provides a breezy Mediterranean feel to couple with the delicious food on the menu. 791 Wharf St. SW, DC; www.delmardc.com

Photo: Courtesy of Del Mar

La Vie With designer David Anthony Chenault at the helm, this Mediterranean newcomer brings themed rooms and a large terrace bar overlooking the Potomac River. With hanging chandeliers and greenery throughout, just being in the bar is a refreshing experience. 88 District Sq. Fifth floor, SW, DC; www.laviedc.com Photo: Courtesy of La Vie

Mi Vida This 11,000-square-foot space boasts floor to ceiling windows with a panoramic view of the Potomac River. The KNEAD Hospitality + Design interior features The Wharf’s industrial aesthetic mixed with prevalent historic and contemporary Mexican inspirations, including the 19-foot Árbol de la Vida, or Tree of Life.

98 District Sq. SW, DC; www.mividamexico.com Whiskey Charlie An indoor-outdoor rooftop bar, this spot might give you the best birds-eye view of District Wharf. Even from inside the space, wall-length windows provide a mesmerizing look at the burgeoning waterfront. Complete with chocolate brown sofas, and adorable outdoor seating arrangements, this is a terrific spot for the outdoor season. 975 7th St. SW, DC; www.whiskeycharliewharf.com

District Wharf is a vibrant neighborhood with more than 50 events per year that are free and open to the public.

District Wharf has four different unique piers: District Pier, Market Pier, Recreation Pier and Transit Pier.

Bring your pets! District Wharf is a pet-friendly neighborhood, including public walkways and other gathering places.

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On Tap | JULY 2018 | www.ontaponline.com

The Channel With a rooftop pool and stunning amenity spaces, you will never feel the need to leave home. A vibrant community, this residence has dedicated spaces to restaurants and shops on the waterfront. Not to mention, The Anthem can be found at the center of the building, giving this location a cultured vibe through and through. 950 Maine Ave. SW, DC; www.dcchannel.com

Photo: Rey Lopez

Photo: Courtesy of Whiskey Charlie

The Maine Avenue Fish Market is the oldest continuously operating, open-air fish market in the country; it opened in 1805, 17 years before the Fulton Fish Market in New York City.

Photos: Courtesy of Bozzuto

Designed to achieve the LEED Gold for the entire Wharf development, the neighborhood features green roofs, 300 new trees, preservation of mature oaks and 340 square feet of floating wetland systems.

Facts provided by District Wharf

Incanto Life is better with a view, and Incanto is full of them – whether you’re coming home each day to contemporary finishes, where modern style blends effortlessly with ultimate comfort, or peeking out the window at the heart of the Wharf.

This apartment not only provides an opportunity for urban living, but also gives a sophisticated modern apartment feel with light without subtle designs and streamlined features. 770 Maine Ave. SW, DC; www.incantodc.com

summer where DC meets in

Join us for sunny days and spectacular waterfront sunsets at The Wharf, featuring a fantastic lineup of waterside activities and special events.

MAY 5 Running of the Chihuahuas MAY 18 Bike to Work Day Pit Stops MAY 19 Blessing of the Fleet

JUN 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 Waterfront Workouts JUN 2 Saturday Night Dancing: Swing JUN 3, 10, 17, 24 Sunday Brunch JUN 6, 13, 20, 27 Wednesday at The Wharf JUN 9 Pride on The Pier JUN 16–17 DC Jazz Fest JUN 21 Corona’s Lightest Day

JUL 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 Sunday Brunch JUL 4 4th of July Patriots’ Party JUL 7 Soccer & Sangria Saturday Night Dancing: Country Line JUL 11, 18, 25 Wednesday at The Wharf JUL 14 All-Star Game Salute JUL 28 Shark Bites & Brews

AUG 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 Wednesday at The Wharf AUG 4 Saturday Night Dancing: Salsa AUG 5, 12, 19, 26 Sunday Brunch AUG 18 Glow in the Dark Kayaking AUG 25 Capital Dragon Boat Regatta

SEP 15 Police & Firefighters Appreciation Picnic

Download the District Wharf App

Dates, times, and performances are subject to changes and additions.

Photos: Mike Kim

PN Hoffman Executive Vice President Shawn Seaman on District Wharf’s Public Art and Developing a New DC Destination On Tap: How did it feel as the ideas for what would look good in this neighborhood came to life?

Shawn Seaman: It was incredibly rewarding. I’m trained as an architect, so I spent a lot of time designing and imagining the between spaces to the parks, and nothing really compares to when you open the doors and see people on the swings and eating at the restaurants.

OT: What were your initial steps in planning the look and feel of District Wharf?

SS: We knew from the beginning we didn’t want a single architect or designer responsible for the entire site; I think that’s why people reacted negatively to the old design. We wanted architectural diversity for each of the buildings. The biggest idea was that we needed to plan waterside first, where the buildings would face the river. That’s sort of contrary to how it was done in the past. Being we were on the water, we had a unique concept to execute what types of uses and how many piers we would have and how they would interact.

OT: How often did you go back and forth on what the overall aesthetic would be, if at all? And how did you decide to go in the direction you ultimately did?

SS: We had a strong vision from the outset as far as the designs of the parks and public spaces. We had different architects on the vertical parcels, and we had different landscape architects on other spaces.

OT: We think some of the more interesting facets of the design, apart from the diversity in architecture, are the thoughtful pieces of artistic design in public spaces – like the torch, the swings and the lighting on Pearl Street. Can you tell me your thoughts on those?

SS: I’m glad you called it art, because it’s not art like a sculpture that you sit and stare at, but each of those in their own right is pretty fantastic. The torch at the end is a beacon for the end of the channel,

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and you see that and it’s an interpretation of the lighthouse. It’s also something you can sit around and enjoy on a cold night. The swings are something we saw in Charleston, SC that we liked, and it’s probably one of the best used elements of the Wharf. On a busy weekend, you’re hard pressed to find one to swing on. For Pearl Street, we have a lot of energy there at night, and we think the lighting on that street makes it feel more like a festival or market, and that’s important to activate the space.

OT: How much emphasis did you put into the lounge areas, especially with The Wharf’s location on the water?

SS: Yeah, seating was paramount in the design. In fact, the bench that runs the entire project is just that, it’s a bench. We saw an example of that in Copenhagen, and there people can sit on the edge and face in or face out. That was lacking in the old development, and there really wasn’t any place where you could sit and be by the water. It was really trying to create a variety of different spaces and places where people could occupy and enjoy the views, whether you’re buying something at the businesses or not.

OT: What are your favorite aspects of the look of The Wharf, and what new things do you think people will enjoy in the coming years?

SS: My favorite thing about The Wharf are the spaces between the buildings, and some of the more unexpected places like the alleys and through streets. Whether it’s Pearl Street or Water Street or Sutton Square, where a ton of places come together. The Piers, you can’t say enough about, with four public places that you can look on the water and then look back onto the city. The next phase is similar in size, maybe a little smaller, but it has a variety of ground floors and activities.

For more information about The Wharf, visit www.wharfdc.com.

FORMALLY INVITES YOU TO

Live the Vine With

THURSDAY, JULY 26TH | 6:30 – 8:30PM Complimentary Wine Samples and Specialty Cocktails Light hors d’oeuvres provided by Hudson Coastal and Lib’s Grill Live music from Trailer Grass Orchestra Model Apartment Tours

Please rsvp at www.TheVineRSVP.com 2

10945 Price Manor Way | Laurel, MD 20723 LiveTheVine.com

ON TAP | AUGUST 2017 | www.ontaponline.com

Cupid’s Garden The four-ton, stainless-steel sculpture consists of 23 polished arrows, acting as a street sign and abstract representation of movement and progress. The piece was created by DC-based sculptor Chris Gardner in 1994. Near 1400 Key Blvd. Arlington, VA Dark Star Park A mixture of sand and stone, these spheres were Arlington’s first major commissioned art project featuring sculptures resembling dying, extinguished stars. The piece, complete with shadow images inset in the ground, was constructed by Nancy Holt in 1984. 1655 N. Fort Myer Dr. Arlington, VA Liquid Pixels Ned Kahn’s 42-foot-high panels are covered with 450,000 stainless steel disks brushed in gold. The piece is said to mimic the flow of air currents and light conditions on its surface.

Kahn finished the project in 2002.

1801 N Lynn St. Arlington, VA Quill Consisting of 19,500 circular dot elements attached to an aluminum surface, Quill’s glow is charged during the day and enhanced by street and traffic lights. Created by Christian Moeller, the artist partnered with Arlington Arts and Monday Properties to figure out the right pleasant image for folks on the busy corner. 1850 N. Moore St. Arlington, VA Learn more about these works of art at www.rosslynva.org.

The DC area’s first permanent parklet, a miniature resting place, the area was designed by Ignacia Ciocchini, a man famous for his work for CityBench in New York. The parklet is 30 feet wide and includes 18 chairs, five plaza tables and four planter boxes. If you look closely enough, many of the elements have perforations representing the Rosslyn skyline at night. On the corner of Oak Street and Wilson Boulevard in Arlington, VA

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Rosslyn has 13 permanent public artworks.

Photos: Courtesy of Rosslyn BID

Rosslyn’s public green spaces range from a 90-acre national park oasis situated on the Potomac River to a three-acre urban park. There’s also a 60foot urban parklet.

The neighborhood’s Continental Beer Garden is one of 25 outdoor dining options, and a favorite of the workforce and residents. All of them merge art, food and drinks.

Every year, Rosslyn hosts its very own Jazz Fest, a 28-year tradition that takes place in Gateway Park with an average of more than 10,000 attendees per year.

Along with Jazz Fest, the neighborhood BID hosts more than 160 events per year ranging from Farmers’s Markets to outdoor movies, concerts and a soon to be unveiled pop-upshop experience.

Facts provided by Sage Communications, LLC

Photo: Adam Brockett

General Manager Graham Dunn, Central Place Observatory Deck On Tap: The Rosslyn BID billed the observation deck as Rosslyn’s “public space in the sky.” What will this space be used for?

Graham Dunn: It’s primarily a tourist attraction, in the style of the One World Observatory in New York City. It offers a 360-degree view of Arlington, the Georgetown Waterfront, the Washington Monument and the Capitol Building. You can pretty much see everything from Silver Spring to Alexandria.

OT: Can you tell us about the full food and beverage program that will be offered there?

GD: We’re featuring all local, Northern Virginia-based beer. That will include Port City, Solace, Lost Rhino and Mustang Sally. We’ll also be serving wine from Virginia wineries. On the 32nd floor, we have a champagne bar where you can grab a glass to enjoy while you watch the sunset. We’re currently working on a full menu of signature cocktails as well.

OT: How is the view offered by the deck different than other places where you can get a panoramic view of the city skyline?

GD: There are similar places like the top of the Watergate hotel and National Cathedral, but the Observation Deck is totally new. The way it’s laid out and the view of the city is incredible and totally unique.

OT: What makes Rosslyn a trendy place to live and sets it apart from other DC area neighborhoods, especially in terms of building design and art?

GD: As far as the Observation Deck goes, Arlington County residents have free access. We want them to become the ambassadors of the space. And we’re working to keep food and beverage prices comparable to other local venues. You can also rent out this space for events.

The Observation Deck: 1201 Wilson Blvd. #214, Arlington, VA; www.theviewofdc.com www.ontaponline.com | JULY 2018 | On Tap

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The “Tysons Luxury Lilies” mural by renowned artist Naturel is a 25 x 100-foot work of art painted on a cement wall facing the entrance to the Greensboro Metro station. Lilies are the symbols of rebirth and transformation, fitting for Tysons as it goes through a major transformation.

Tysons will soon be organized around eight districts, each with a distinctive character and mix of land uses, that people will be able to seamlessly move between. The connectedness and uniqueness of each place will be mutually supportive, creating a 24-hour, vibrant urban center.

The highest density will soon be oriented toward Tysons’ four Metrorail stations, encouraging people to utilize public transit and helping to ease the burden on vehicular traffic.

Photo: Courtesy of Tysons Biergarten

With a main bier hall, basement bar, mezzanine and 10,000-square-foot patio, Tysons Biergarten is almost four separate experiences rolled into one. The patio is a straightforward outdoor biergarten, while the main bier hall contains a playful blue color and features flags of different countries hanging around the room – and going up a level to the mezzanine gives you much of the same feel. Tucked away underneath, the American Underground basement bar gives off an old-school saloon vibe teetering on the divey side. 8346 Leesburg Pike, Tysons, VA; www.tysonsbiergarten.com

Tysons is changing quickly: 14 buildings have been added to the skyline since 2011, and there are currently 2.6 million square feet of development under construction. It’s becoming an attractive place to live, and the number of residential units has grown by 41 percent since 2011.

The Plaza at Tysons Corner Center hosts a summer concert series as well as fitness classes, holiday and cultural festivities, and events for kids. The plaza connects Tysons Corner Center with the Metro station, serving as both a gathering space and a pedestrian connection.

Facts provided by www.fairfaxcounty.gov/tysons

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On Tap | JULY 2018 | www.ontaponline.com

Photo: Courtesy of OCRR Tysons

Speaking of Tysons Biergarten, the massive space arrived at the same time as a massive mural directly outside of the Greensboro Metro. The 100-foot mural, “Tysons Luxury Lilies,” was painted by international artist Naurel, also known as Lawrence Atoigue. The work features a serene foreground with flowers bursting upward from a peaceful stream. Along with teamwork from Tysons and Naurel, the piece was produced by Art Whino Executive Director Shane Pomajambo. www.artwhino.com

Photo: M.K. Koszycki

Photo: Anna Stratton

Designer Anna Stratton, Teas’n You On Tap: How did you come up with the design for Teas’nYou? Anna Stratton: I met with the owners of Teas’n You and they took me through interior design plans. We bounced ideas around, as well as what spaces they were thinking of activating in terms of display.

OT: How would you describe the overall aesthetic of the design?

AS: The overall aesthetic of the displays presents an enchanting and ethereal feel. I used a lot of soft neutrals and metallics to help enhance the theme.

OT: How long did it take to install and create?

AS: All the displays were hand cut and treated, and therefore took a little more time to prep prior to installing. The window and wall took the longest in terms of installation time – about two hours for each.

OT: There are a lot of bubble tea shops in the DC area. How does the design of Teas’n You set it apart?

AS: I think Teasn’ You really expanded their realm in terms of customer experience and environment. They really took the time to make it a place people could enjoy, relax and even work in. Most shops have an in-and-out type of feel whereas Teasn’ You is very different from that.

Follow Stratton’s art and design on Instagram at @a.duvalart, and learn more about Teas’n You at www.teasnyou.com.

Teas’n You Fusion Tea House: 8032 Leesburg Pike, Vienna, VA; www.teasnyou.com

www.ontaponline.com | JULY 2018 | On Tap

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A Day in the

Life

By Courtney Sexton

SWATCHROOM’S

MAGGIE O’NEILL & WARREN WEIXLER

By M.K. Koszycki and Fareeha Rehman

A

n artist and an architect meet in DC, each with their own unique skill set. Realizing that they can accomplish more together, the artist says, “Let’s start a business.” And just like that, design, art and fabrication firm Swatchroom is founded.

While there’s more to their origin story than our abridged version above, a partnership did fall into place in 2013 because both artist and architect saw the strengths that could come with combining their individual experiences. Artist Maggie O’Neill’s background as a painter and designer paired with architect Warren Weixler’s experience at the helm of two design-build firms has made the duo unstoppable in the aesthetic formation of some of the DC area’s most sought-after interiors.

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ON TAP | JULY 2018 | www.ontaponline.com

Photo: Violetta Markelou

Swatchroom is responsible for the buzzworthy interiors of brand new Poca Madre in Penn Quarter and recently opened Morris American Bar in Shaw, just to name a few. No two Swatchroom designs are alike – the team takes pride in creating spaces that fit the vision of each space to a T while pushing creative boundaries and making people think.

Weixler says every client has their own idiosyncrasies and way in which they like to function, so he and O’Neill have to learn what’s important to them and approach each design in a completely individualized way.

The designers are at the forefront of the creative renaissance that’s taken the city by storm over the past few years and continue to work in DC, and even across the globe, on a diverse portfolio of projects. We met the pair in their bustling Shaw studio, where the team was hard at work putting the finishing touches on several projects, to talk about their creative journey.

On Tap: How did you meet each other?

Maggie O’Neill: We met because I was working on a restaurant called Lincoln. [We started] collaborating on fabrication. In cases when I was designing for projects and I couldn’t bring [Warren] in as the architect, he would come in and help me work on a whole host of things.

Warren Weixler: I had a small boutique architecture firm called Design Operative. Around 2008, when the work went away and the bubble burst, I had the choice to lean on some other skill sets I had.

When the work started to come back in, I had the choice to either get rid of all that stuff and just go back to only architecture, or to try and incorporate it all together. When Swatchroom started to stir about as an idea, I got really excited because I thought, “I can get away from the technical world of plans and permits and actually live in the architectural world.”

Swatchroom Must-Haves

OT: What motivated you to station this brand-new business here in DC? MO: I was born and raised here. Swatchroom had clients before it existed, so we have a base here. That base also has projects in other cities, which is exciting. That allows us to work in other markets across the U.S. and internationally.

WW: We want to try to lead some of the trends or the ways in which things are done. That’s much harder in a bigger city that’s established.

If you go on Google and go to New York City and search “design firms,” like 2,000 pins drop. It doesn’t happen here. It’s growing, but we actually get to affect change in the restaurant industry [with] some of our clients. I think we’re extremely lucky to be in a position to help the growth of a city rather than try to fight everybody else to get jobs.

OT: It sounds like every project you take on is very unique. Talk us through some of the everyday challenges you face.

WW: We have that responsibility as designers to say, “Don’t spend your money on that thing, spend it here,” so I think organizing the budget and the study of how that money works is super interesting.

The other challenge from my technical mindset is how we tend to push the envelope on artwork with huge installations, large wall features and such. While all of that is extremely creative and flexible, building code is not. We’ll constantly come up with great ideas but have to worry about sprinkler heads or a fire alarm. How do we push the envelope but make sure it’s legal for the building? It’s fun to play in the conceptual world, but how do you actually execute that? I feel like that’s what we’re good at: figuring out how to get it done and how to get it made and who to use to do it.

OT: A large portion of your work is restaurant and bar design.

Why are you both drawn to those spaces?

MO: I’m a dreamer all day long, and we want you to use your imagination and to really just push people [to] this sort of Alice in Wonderland moment. You take somebody out of their real life and give them a treat for a little while. There’s just so much joy in that, and the restaurant industry has allowed us to do that.

WW: That is a new trend. How do you blur the lines of what [a space] is? The LINE Hotel is a perfect example of that. Is it a restaurant? Is it a hotel? Is it a workspace? Is it just a cool spot to hang out? It’s all of the above, it’s none of the above. Does it actually matter? Those conversations are really interesting. Rather than saying, “This is an office building, this is a restaurant, this is a hotel,” owners and developers are saying, “It doesn’t matter.”

MO: It’s great because there is no clean answer. I love all that muddiness. This is such a linear city, and it has been for so long. It’s been a city of Democrat versus Republican, “yes” versus “no,” you know – lines. And now there’s so much gray…

WW: …color, there’s so much color!

MO: I’m happy to say, while I don’t think we’re there yet, we’re a hell of a lot better off than we were.

OT: Your most recent restaurant project is Poca Madre, which opened its doors on June 19. Tell us about your design inspiration for this space.

MO: Victor Albisu is the chef, and he is [also] an artist and a passionate person. The aesthetic is modern Mexican and has this fresh, high contrast to it. It’s a lot of black and white with a ton of greenery and hints of brass, and a few powerful statements aesthetically and potentially politically. It’s a petite environment in that it’s not a big, vast space so wherever you are you will feel a kind of intimacy.

WW: [Albisu] came to us in a moment of growth. He wanted to change Del Campo, which had been around for five years or so, and wanted to bring a Taco Bamba to the city. He said “Okay, I’ll take the front half of the space, because it’s basically a big ‘L,’ and make that Taco Bamba on I Street.

Music Plants Artwork Natural light Coffee in the a.m. + bar cart in the p.m.

Let’s take the remainder and let’s make that this new concept.” We were not only part of the design, but also in helping another business owner get through a growth plateau to reinvent a space that they own.

OT: Would you say there’s a distinct Swatchroom style? How do you make each space different?

WW: Maybe we have a Swatchroom style, but I don’t know if it’s on purpose. I think we’ve really tried to dig into the narrative of the concept of the client and what that concept means to them and let that drive what the space looks like. We’ll all call each other to the table if we’re trying to repeat a material or a detail or do something again. We force ourselves to stay fresh that way. I think those two things combined have [led to a] portfolio where none of the work looks the same. I’ve even had potential clients come in and ask, “The same people did all of that?” We’re proud of that. It should be different.

OT: You’ve achieved a lot as a design firm in a five-year span. How have your goals changed since 2013?

MO: Our first goal was to figure out how to manage the messaging to people we were already providing our services to. We grew by three or four more people that year, so the skill sets and talents those people brought in was part of our other goal: to actually bring in people that had different expertise [than us]. That way, the conversations and creative problem-solving are better.

WW: It was bootstrapped and organic, and we also made a pact that we’re not going to change for change’s sake, but we’re open to change. In these chapters of your business life, and as trends change, you have to change to stay current and to stay ahead. If we just jam the same process, we may not get the same results. [With] each chapter, we’re like, “Okay, let’s keep growing. Let’s keep changing for the better and keep organizing in different ways.” Luckily, our team is awesome in that they’re open to change, too.

Follow Swatchroom on Instagram at @swatchroom, O’Neill at @maggieoneilldc and Weixler at @warrenweixler. For more on Swatchroom, visit www.swatchroom.com.

Swatchroom: 1301 9th St. NW, DC; 202-808-3343; www.swatchroom.com www.ontaponline.com | JULY 2018 | On Tap

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Brutal Beauties A Look into DC’s Concrete Architecture

By M.K. Koszycki Architecture in DC is often associated with the neoclassical silhouettes of the White House, the Jefferson Memorial and the Treasury. But what about all the concrete that makes up buildings like the FBI Building, the Department of Housing and Urban Development, or even the Hirshhorn? Enter the architectural style of Brutalism and its resident advocate Deane Madsen, a writer and architectural photographer living in the city. He founded BrutalistDC, an Instagram account and website that document these widely misunderstood structures. We caught up with him about the basics of Brutalism and what makes the style so important to DC’s landscape.

On Tap: How would you define Brutalism?

Deane Madsen: An architectural style that features bold, structurally innovative forms rendered in raw materials. It stems from a 1950s British interpretation of a Swedish moniker crossed with a Swiss/French architect’s specification of béton brut (raw concrete) in social housing. In the U.S., the style emerged later but proliferated due to low cost of materials during an era in which government set about to redefine itself with monumental structures.

OT: Why is Brutalist architecture so important to the architectural landscape of DC? DM: For one, there’s just so much of it. Look at any satellite image of Southwest DC and you’ll find enormous superblocks of government buildings rendered in concrete: the Department of Energy, the Department of Housing and Urban Development, L’Enfant Plaza. Two, most of it arose during an era of urban renewal in Washington. The Brutalist architecture in the District breaks from the traditions of Neoclassical, Federal and Gothic Revival to present buildings constructed at the height of post-war optimism.

OT: What are some common misconceptions about Brutalism and how do you respond to them?

DM: Probably the biggest misconception about Brutalist buildings is that they’re somehow brutal. I sometimes joke that these buildings are not, in fact, out to kill you – chunks of concrete falling off the FBI Building are the result of neglect, not malice. The other default reaction to Brutalism is that it’s ugly. I get it, not everyone appreciates the aesthetic. And there’s no way I’m going to be able to change someone’s taste, but when I’m giving tours of Brutalist buildings, I encourage people to get up close and examine tactile features such as board-formed concrete.

OT: What led you to create the BrutalistDC Instagram account and website?

DM: Washington has an amazing breadth of architecture, but the city’s government buildings of the 1960s and 1970s – the urban renewal era – are much maligned, and, quite frankly, I was tired of seeing Brutalist buildings top lists of DC’s ugliest. My goal in creating BrutalistDC was to advocate for an underappreciated set of buildings and to show them in ways that highlight their textural beauty.

OT: What are your favorite Brutalist buildings in DC and why?

DM: The Hirshhorn Museum is easily my favorite Brutalist building in DC. The staff of the Hirshhorn understands the value of their museum’s architecture, and works hard to maintain, promote and improve it. A recent lobby renovation stands out as an example of a sensitive addition to an already great space.

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Learn more about Brutalist architecture in the District at www.brutalistdc.com On Tap | JULY 2018 | www.ontaponline.com and follow BrutalistDC on Instagram at @brutalistdc.

DC Design Edition

By M.K. Koszycki

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The Kennedy Center is undergoing an expansion project called the REACH including a riverfront café, three pavilions, 35 gingko trees and 7,200 additional square feet. It’s slated to open in September 2019.

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Snarkitecture, who previously brought the much-loved “BEACH” exhibit to DC, returns to the National Building Museum with an interactive exhibit called “Fun House.” The installation will be on display from July 4 to September 3 and aims to “recall and reimagine the idea of the traditional home.”

Docomomo International, a Dutch group founded to preserve modernist architecture throughout the world, also has a DC chapter. DocomomoDC recently hosted a tour around Brutalist architecture in the city and a lecture on the Metro, and has brought awareness to modernist buildings being threatened by construction.

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The iconic Franklin School at 13th and K Streets NW will soon be transformed into Planet Word, a museum dedicated to the power of language. While the building was granted internal landmark protection, it will feature modern, interactive language arts exhibits and is set to open in late 2019.

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Love the classic Brutalist waffled ceilings of the Metro? You can plaster your walls with wallpaper featuring the design from UK-based company Murals Wallpaper. Buy it here: www.muralswallpaper.com.

Famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright has designed five houses within a 50-mile radius of DC, including the Pope-Leighey House in Alexandria, Robert Llewellyn Wright house in Bethesda and Luis Marden house in McLean.

DC’s first all-female architecture firm is now home to the city’s branch of The Wing, an all-female coworking space.

Chloethiel Woodard Smith’s eponymously named firm was the largest female run architectural firm in the country by the early 70s. Some of her notable works in DC include the F Street Plaza, Blake Building and Potomac Place Tower.

Facts courtesy of the following articles: #1: www.dc.curbed.com/2018/6/11/17448776/kennedy-center-reach-expansion #2: www.curbed.com/2018/1/5/16854730/brutalist-wallpaper-murals-concrete #3: www.dc.curbed.com/2018/3/22/17152636/museum-building-summer-snarkitecture #4: www.docomomo-dc.org #5: www.dc.curbed.com/2018/6/5/17430574/planet-word-dc-franklin-school #6: www.wamu.org/story/17/06/07/celebrate-frank-lloyd-wrights-birthday-six-places-visit-around-washington #7: www.aiawam.com/chloethiel-smith.html

Gallery Pl-Chinatown Metro

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www.ontaponline.com | JULY 2018 | ON TAP Photo: Deane Madsen

All Drink, Dine, Do event listings are provided by the venues hosting them.

Photos: J. Boches

THROUGH SUNDAY, JULY 15

The 37th annual Celebrate Fairfax! featured performances by Good Charlotte, Cracker, The Reagan Years and more, plus food, beer, games, rides and a nightly fireworks show.

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ON TAP | JULY 2018 | www.ontaponline.com

We The Dogs’ Two Paws Up Two Paws Up is a searchable map of dog-friendly activities and places throughout the DC metropolitan area. This interactive map serves as a resource for local dog owners to discover dog parks, hotels, coffee shops, walking trails, restaurants and Instagram photo hotspots, among other activities and businesses in their area. The map is updated frequently with locations that have been recommended by the community, as well as those that have been featured on the We the Dogs DC Instagram. Check out www.wethedogsdc.org to add your favorite dogfriendly spot, or to find a new place for you and your furry friend to visit together.

ABRA’s 2018 World Cup Extended Hours Program Want to watch your favorite World Cup matchup with your buds, but all your favorite bars aren’t allowed to sell alcohol when the earlier games are on? No need to worry. Under the 2018 World Cup Extended Hours program, 75 licensees have been approved to sell alcohol one hour earlier during the FIFA World Cup Tournament.

Establishments that registered with the Alcoholic Beverage Regulation Administration (ABRA) are permitted to allow the sale, service and consumption of alcoholic beverages beginning at 7 a.m. daily through July 15. Check out the listing at www.abra.dc.gov/ node/1337541 to see if your favorite places are eligible.

VIP Getaway to the Region’s Premier Crab and Beer Festival!

Overnight Accommodations and VIP tickets to a Crab & Beer Lover’s Dream Event on August 19 Get crackin’ and join us for the 9th annual Maryland Tradition, the Chesapeake Crab & Beer Festival, an ALL-YOU-CARE-TO-TASTE extravaganza complete with over 60,000 crabs, lots of beer, arts & crafts, live music, and much more!

Gaylord National Resort’s exclusive VIP Chesapeake Crab & Beer Festival Package includes: • One night room accommodations on Friday, August 17 or Saturday, August 18 • Two tickets to VIP Crab & Beer Fun Day which includes: • Souvenir mug and mallet • Unlimited tastes of the beer and wine on-site • ALL-YOU-CARE-TO-TASTE Crabs, Corn, Cole Slaw and Potato Chips

GaylordNational.com or call (301) 965-4000 (refer to code D60) Valid Friday (8/17/18) or Saturday (8/18/18). Tax, resort fee and parking additional. Advance purchase required up to three days prior to arrival. Non-refundable rate cancellation permitted up to 72-hours prior to arrival.

Atrium upgrade may be available at prevailing rates. Limited number ofrooms are available for this promotion. Offer does not apply to groups of 10 or more rooms or conventions. Offer cannot be combined with any other promotions. Advance reservations required. This event is not designed for children; they are welcome but you will find very little of interest to them. Other restrictions apply.

THROUGH MONDAY, JULY 30 DC Design Tours Some say that DC is America’s Paris - with similar urban layouts, the Capitol’s streets were designed by French-born American architect Pierre Charles L’Enfant. Experience this architecture up close on one of several themed walking tours around major areas of DC. DC Design Tours offers tours with a focus on architecture, urban planning and design, and has many options for tours to choose from all month. Explore the monuments, memorials and museums of the National Mall, take a tour around Capitol Hill or the White House, stroll through Dupont Circle and Adams Morgan or even get a closeup view of Nats Park and the up and coming Audi Field on a tour of the Ballpark neighborhood.

DC Design Tours: Various locations throughout DC; www.dcdesigntours.com

WEDNESDAY, JULY 4 Fourth of July Summer Party at The Wharf Ring in 242 years of American independence with a kidfriendly party on District Pier. With live music from Rocknoceros, a local kids’ music band that’ll have your little ones rolling with laughter, listen and watch, or queue up for face painting and games on the pier. For the adults in the crowd, the waterfront beer and wine garden opens at 1 p.m. for drinks and snacks, and the David Thong Band will play live. Stick around to hear the band’s full Wednesday at the Wharf set and settle in for a great view of the fireworks from the National Mall (you can watch from the pier).

12-4 p.m. Free to attend. The Wharf: 101 District Sq. SW, DC; www.wharfdc.com

WEDNESDAY, JULY 4

Photos: Mike Kim

SUNDAY, JULY 1 AND WEDNSDAY, JULY 4 SATURDAY, JULY 7

Every Friday evening, the Capitol Riverfront BID features live musicians such as Marvillous Beats at Yards Park with ice-cold Corona and wine at the outdoor tented bar.

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Smithsonian Folklife Festival Celebrate cultural traditions from across the globe at the annual Smithsonian Folklife Festival. The Festival includes daily and evening music and dance performances, crafts and cooking demonstrations, storytelling, and discussions of cultural issues. This year’s festival highlights cultural creativity from Armenia and Catalonia, plus the 40th anniversary Sisterfire concert on July 8. Free to attend.

Various times. National Mall: 784 Jefferson Dr. SW, DC; www.festival.si.edu

CityBar Presents The Fourth with a View Join for CityBar’s annual National Fireworks viewing party. Enjoy an All-American buffet, full premium open bar, awesome beats and capture amazing views of the fireworks while overlooking the Nation’s Capital. 3-10 p.m. Tickets $200 for adults and $100 for kids (12 and under). CityBar (Penthouse level of Hyatt Place Washington DC/National Mall): 400 E St. SW, DC; www.citybardc.com Fourth of July Backyard Cook Out Join at City Tap House in Dupont for an Independence Day all-you-can-eat-and-drink event for Red, White, Brews & Food.

Attendees have the choice

between red wine, white wine, Founders Brewing Company All Day IPA & Solid Gold, Sierra Nevada BFG, hamburgers, hot dogs, potato salad and coleslaw.

Make your reservation on Open Table to guarantee a table for the event. 1-5 p.m. Tickets $35.

City Tap House Dupont: 1250 Connecticut Ave. #105 NW, DC; www.dupont.citytap.com Independence Day Celebration Join at the Beacon Bar and Grill’s Sky Bar for the annual national firework viewing party with signature cocktails, an à la carte menu and vibrant beats featuring a live DJ. Must be at least 21 years of age and have a valid ID for access to the rooftop bar. Tickets are valid for entry and one house cocktail only, tables are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. 5-10 p.m. Tickets $45. Beacon Bar and Grill at Beacon Hotel: 1615 Rhode Island Ave. NW, DC; www.beaconhotelwdc.com

WEDNESDAYS, JULY 4, 11, 18, 25

Photos: Mark Van Bergh

Wednesdays at The Wharf It’s not the most average day of the week anymore.

Wednesday at The Wharf presented by Landshark Lager is a free summer concert series that brings live music to Transit Pier every Wednesday.

No matter your musical tastes – rock, folk, reggae, funk, pop – The Wharf has a performance for you, though you don’t need to be a fan already to enjoy the tunes, views and food. 6-8 p.m.

The Wharf: 900 Wharf St. SW, DC; www.wharfdc.com

At VY | Reston Heights’ grand opening, guests enjoyed light fare from local favorites Reston Kabob and PassionFish, beer and wine on the pool deck, and live music while touring the new property.

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On Tap | JULY 2018 | www.ontaponline.com

FRIDAY, JULY 6 Underground Comedy Presents As featured on Comedy Central and in The Washington Post, Underground Comedy presents rising comics from around the country. These comics have performed at comedy clubs and festivals all over the world.

They have appeared on Comedy

Central, Last Comic Standing, Conan, Fallon, Kimmel, Colbert, MTV, VH1 and FX. Must be 21+ to enter. 9:45-11:15 p.m.

Tickets $20. The Big Hunt: 1345 Connecticut Ave. NW, DC; www.undergroundcomedydc.com

FRIDAYS, JULY 6 and 20 Nationals Park Concerts Every Friday home game, the best place to pregame is at the Budweiser Terrace inside the ballpark. As the Nationals warm up to play the Miami Marlins at 7:05 p.m., enjoy a pregame show of Americana music from Justin Trawick and The Common Good along with an ice-cold beer. 5-7 p.m. Nationals Park: 1500 S. Capitol St. SE, DC; www.mlb.com/nationals/tickets

FRIDAYS, JULY 6, 13, 20, 27 Friday Night Concerts at Yards Park Spend your Friday night relaxing at Yards Park in Capitol Riverfront. Spread a blanket and enjoy a night of hits from different bands each Friday like Jimi Smooth Band. The concert is free and the stage is located on the boardwalk. Ice-cold Corona beers and wine will be available onsite at the outdoor tented bar! Must be 21+ (no outside alcohol). 7-9 p.m. The Yards Park: 355 Water St. SE, DC; www.capitolriverfront.org Fridays at Fort Totten Summer Concert Series The Fridays at Fort Totten Summer Concert Series is every Friday through August 31. Come out and enjoy delicious bites from the week’s featured food truck and amazing live music.

There’s a new band and food truck each Friday. We hope to see you there. In partnership with The Modern at Art Place.

6-8 p.m. The Modern: Corner of South Dakota Avenue and Galloway Street in NE, DC; www.fridaysatforttotten.com

Rosslyn Cinema & Pub in The Park Every Friday this summer in Gateway Park, bring blankets or low chairs and a group of friends and enjoy a night under the stars with your favorite movies such as Coco, La La Land, Argo, The Lion King and more. Movies start at dusk, but the fun starts at 5 p.m. with games and Pub in the Park, where you can grab a glass of beer, wine or homemade sangria at Rosslyn’s mobile pub brought to you in partnership with Mobile Event Bars. You can also enjoy some popcorn from Popped Republic and food from local food trucks.

This event is kid- and dogfriendly. Gateway Park: 1300 Lee Hwy. Arlington, VA; www.rosslynva.org.

SATURDAY, JULY 7 THROUGH JULY 29 Capital Fringe Festival This performance-based festival brings together acts in comedy, music and more. Now in its 10th year, some performances are better suited for family while others are great for a date night or friendly hangout. Capital Fringe thrives on creating earning opportunities for innovative local and visiting artists to present and exhibit their work. Times vary. Tickets $17 per act. Capital Fringe Festival: Various venues throughout DC; www.capitalfringe.org

SATURDAY, JULY 7 Chinatown Community Festival Come out and experience the tastes, sounds and feel of Asia at the 2018 Chinatown Community Festival. Enjoy street food provided by local Asian and Pacific Islander restaurants, lively performances including Wushu, a lion dance and a dog tricks show, rice flour drawing, kimono dressing and other cultural demonstrations. Other activities include live screen printing, fitness demonstrations,

free face painting, balloon twisting, henna, other Asian arts and crafts, and much more.

11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Free to attend.

Chinatown Park: 500-599 block of I Street NW, DC; www.apia.dc.gov Saturday Night Dancing at The Wharf It’s an all-American edition of the Wharf’s Saturday night dance series. So, saddle up and get ready to two-step. DC Rawhides will start the night with dance instruction and demos, followed by a boot stomping show from the Wil Gravatt band. 7-9 p.m. Free to attend, no advance registration required. The Wharf: 900 Wharf St. SW, DC; www.wharfdc.com Soccer and Sangria at The Wharf Soccer mania is in full swing and it’s time for Soccer and Sangria at The Wharf on Transit Pier. D.C. United will be joining in for an afternoon of soccer fun and they’ll be showing the World Cup quarter final on the big screen. Sip on some sangria, play the soccer games and get ready for the grand opening of Audi Field. 1-4 p.m. Free to attend, must be at least 21 years of age to purchase or consume alcohol. The Wharf: 900 Wharf St. SW, DC; www.wharfdc.com Summer Arts Fest 2018 Come out for a day of summer fun and community at the Right Proper Brookland Production House featuring performances by up and coming local DC bands and a chance to purchase art, photography, jewelry, food, drinks and more. 12-7 p.m. Free to attend.

Right Proper Brookland: 920 Girard St. NE DC; www. anindivisibleartcollective.com USA/Alexandria Birthday Celebration Celebrate America’s 241st birthday and Alexandria’s 269th birthday along the Potomac waterfront at Oronoco Bay Park.

Bring lawn chairs, blankets and a picnic, and enjoy live music

Celebrate

SUMMER with

SOMMERBRAU A light, refreshing Kolsch-Style German Ale with floral hop flavor and a crisp finish.

On Tap throughout August!

Patio Now Open!

Navy Yard

100 M Street SE | Washington, DC | 202.484.2739

www.ontaponline.com | JULY 2018 | On Tap

31

by the Alexandria Symphony Orchestra, patriotic birthday cake, food vendors and a dazzling fireworks display.

As George Washington’s hometown, Alexandria is a patriotic hotspot, filled with tours by bike, boat and foot, historic sites and art galleries, plus restaurants and boutiques to explore before heading to the waterfront for the grand celebration. 6-10 p.m. Free to attend. Oronoco Bay Park: 100 Madison St. Alexandria, VA; www.alexandriava.gov

SUNDAY, JULY 8

Photos: LA Flicks Photography

La Tasca’s Paella Making Class Popular paella-making class is now available monthly at La Tasca’s DC, Rockville and Old Town Alexandria locations.

Work alongside their expert chefs as you learn the art of making this traditional Spanish dish. Compete with others in your class for the best dish and a chance to win a prize. Choose between a paella making class for one or two. Purchase of a ticket includes a welcome sangria and appetizers, a brief history of paella, a paella-making session, two complementary glasses of sangria, paella and tapas buffet, and dessert. 12-3 p.m. Tickets $75-$150. La Tasca: 722 7th St. NW, DC; www.latascausa.com

Corona Lightest Day celebrated the first day of summer at District Wharf with Corona Light, a silent disco and a glow party.

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On Tap | JULY 2018 | www.ontaponline.com

Made in Colombia Festival Come out for another year of celebrating Colombian culture.

This is the third consecutive year celebrating and promoting the amazing Colombian culture, including its food, music, arts and craft, and wonderful people. 2 p.m. Tickets $20+.

University of the District of Columbia: 4200 Connecticut Ave. NW, DC; www.madeincolombiafest.com

WEDNESDAY, JULY 11 Beyoncé Dance Class at Yards Park Join for a complimentary hour-long dance class featuring choreography to Beyoncé’s

best music videos. Dancers of all levels will learn step-by-step choreography, taught by a local instructor. 6:30-7:30 p.m. The Yards Park: 355 Water St. SE, DC; www.capitolriverfront.org/ yards-park Paddle the Potomac: An Alternative Happy Hour Happy hour doesn’t always have to break the bank. Reserve your spot today for Paddle the Potomac with Potomac Conservancy and Latino Outdoors. Join for an evening paddle along the iconic DC skyline. They’ll bring the food and fun, you just have to show up. This event will transform your usual Wednesday night into an unforgettable outdoor experience. Be sure to stick around after the paddle to chat and enjoy delicious vegan tacos from Chaia. 6-8 p.m. $10 to reserve a spot in advance, but donations are appreciated. Key Bridge Boathouse: 3500 Water St. NW, DC; www.boatingindc.com

THURSDAY, JULY 12 – SATURDAY, JULY 14 Black Art in America Presents Spiral Now: 55 Years in the Making In partnership with the March on Washington Film Festival, Black Art in America presents a curated visual arts experience.

The exhibit is a fine art show that will pair the works and stories from some of the legacy artists and original members along with contemporary artists who are using their art and influence for social justice.

The art exhibit will highlight members of the Spiral group, a collective of artists including Romare Bearden, Charles Alston, Emma Amos, Norman Lewis, Reginald Gammon and Hale Woodruff, formed in July 1963. Various times. Free to attend. Studio Theatre: 1501 14th St. NW, DC; www.blackartinamerica.com

THURSDAY, JULY 12 & 26 Tunes in the Triangle Summer Concert Series Stop by Milian Park with your friends, family and/or pets for free summer concerts from great local bands like Pebble to Pearl and Jarreau Williams. 6-8 p.m. Free to attend. Milian Park in Mount Vernon Triangle: 499 Massachusetts Ave. NW, DC; www.mvtcid.org

THURSDAYS, JULY 12,19, 26 Library of Congress Summer Movies on the Lawn Join every Thursday starting July 12 for awesome flicks from the National Film Registry. Located between the Supreme Court and the Jefferson Building, the north lawn of the Jefferson Building provides a comfortable space for people to watch the feature films. Moviegoers are welcome to bring picnics.

8:30-11:30 p.m. Movie begins at sunset. Free to attend. North Lawn, Thomas Jefferson Building: 10 First St. SE, DC; www.loc.gov

THURSDAY, JULY 12 Shirlala Music Festival Join on Thursdays this summer for live music at The Village. Take out a meal from your favorite Shirlington restaurant and enjoy wine tastings for just $5 while you catch local bands and soak up the setting summer sun. Dan Haas Band performs. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Village at Shirlington: 4280 Campbell Ave. Arlington, VA; www.villageatshirlington.com

FRIDAY, JULY 13 11th Hour Poetry Slam The 11th Hour Poetry Slam offers an opportunity for poetry lovers to enjoy the competitive art of late-night performance poetry. Enjoy two rounds of high intensity poetry, with the audience choosing a winner.

A poetry slam is a competitive event in which poets perform their work and are judged by members of the audience. 11 p.m. - 1 a.m. $5 cover. Busboys and Poets: 2021 14th St. NW, DC; www.busboysandpoets.com Bastille Day DC 2018 Start your trip to France by tasting a selection from the best local chefs, participate in the silent auction filled with wonderful items and sip a glass of wine in the patio while listening to live music.

The Hot Club of Baltimore will be performing live during the evening and a live DJ will follow. Open bar until 9:30 p.m.

Event runs from 6:30-10:30 p.m.

Tickets $95-$175. Embassy of France: 4101 Reservoir Rd. NW, DC; www.tasteusa.com Ride or Pie - Apple Pie 101 Cooking Class Learn the basics of pie making in this hands-on cooking class.

You’ll master making pie crust from scratch, selecting the right apples for your pie and secret tips for making a bakery-perfect apple pie. Each ticket includes an amuse bouche, apple pie, apple hand pies and a wine or beer of your choice. 6:30-9:30 p.m. Tickets $75. Tastemakers: 2800 10th St. NE, DC; www.tastemakersdc.com

Photos: Mike Kim, Devin Overbey

Summer Sunset Paddle on the Potomac River Spend the afternoon in a relaxing two-hour paddle designed to let you reflect, focus on nature and yourself.

Glide along with aquatic animals as you tour an island or two, while leisurely paddling the scenic Potomac. Swing

by Fanny’s Garden after kayaking the sunset for some refreshing drinks and bites.

Certified guides are ready to show you an excursion that is informative, enjoyable and safe for all skill levels. All Paddle and Explore trips include transportation to and from one of our local launch points.

72-hour advanced reservation required. $150. Lansdowne Resort and Spa: 44050 Woodridge Pkwy. Leesburg, VA; www.destinationhotels.com/ lansdowne-resort

Each Wednesday evening this summer at The Wharf, enjoy live music on Transit Pier presented by Landshark Lager with food and drinks at Cantina Bambina, plus waterfront views.

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SAAM & BYT Present: Unseensters Join the Smithsonian American Art Museum & BYT for Unseensters: A SITES UNSEEN After Hours, featuring exclusive after hours, tourist-free access to the new exhibition “Trevor Paglen: Sites Unseen.” Trevor Paglen is a conceptual artist with activist intentions. His work blurs the lines between art, science and investigative journalism to construct unfamiliar, and at times, unsettling ways to see and interpret the world around us.

There will also be a DJ set by Yeasayer. 8:30 p.m. - 12 a.m.

Tickets $40-$60. Smithsonian American Art Museum: 800 G St. NW, DC; www. brightestyoungthings.com

SATURDAY, JULY 14

Photos: Trent Johnson

Baseball Americana Family Day The Library presents a day filled with baseball-themed events for visitors of all ages. All events are free, and tickets are available where noted, but are not required. Tours of the “Baseball Americana” exhibition will be available. See website for a detailed list of the day’s events.

10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Free to attend.

Thomas Jefferson Building: 10 First St. SE, DC; www.loc.gov

Shakespeare Theatre Company’s Young Prose Night gave the under 35 crowd the chance to see Camelot, and to enjoy a complimentary glass of wine or beer courtesy of Victory Brewing.

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On Tap | JULY 2018 | www.ontaponline.com

Bastille Day Tasting: French Wines With some 11,000 French expats living near DC, Bastille Day Weekend is a big celebration in the area. Join Cork & Fork’s celebration, “liberté, égalité, et fraternité” with a wine tasting from all corners of the French countryside with a rotating selection throughout the weekend. 3-6 p.m. Tickets $5.

Cork & Fork DC: 1522 14th St. NW, DC; www.corkandfork.co Brabo Brasserie: Bastille Day Moulin Rouge Sing-A-Long Why spend Bastille Day watching Baz Luhrmann’s Moulin Rouge? Because you can. Brabo’s stunning European courtyard will become an

Alfresco Theater screening the rowdy, romantic and perfectly Parisian Moulin Rouge. Chef Sebastien Rondier will offer a menu of Parisian theater snacks for $5 each. Esprit du Vin will be offering Champagne tastings and specialty Champagne cocktails. Screenings at 3 p.m., 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. Brabo: 1600 King St. Alexandria, VA; www.braborestaurant.com DCRRC Bastille Day Four-Miler Come celebrate The Storming of the Bastille, and the beginning of the French Revolution with a 4-mile run hosted by DC Roadrunners Running Club.

After the race, stick around and celebrate a great run with your fellow runners, watch the awards announcements and partake in refreshments. 7-9 p.m. Tickets are $10 (or less!)

Fletcher’s Boat House: 4940 Canal Rd. NW, DC; www.dcroadrunners.org REV909: Daft Punk/French House tribute and Indie Dance Classics Join residents Will Eastman and Ozker as they celebrate La Fête Nationale at U Street Music Hall with tributes to Daft Punk, French House and the best indie dance classics. U Street will pass out handheld French flags to fans while world-renowned artist Robin Bell transforms the club with Bastille Day-inspired projections. 18+. 10:30 p.m.

Tickets $10. U Street Music Hall: 1115 U St. NW, DC; www.ustreetmusichall.com Shrub Life Festival: A PlantBased Celebration Black Broke Vegan and Chef Curt Mariah are coming together this summer to present Shrub Life Festival: A PlantBased Celebration. Come and enjoy music, live art, plus a raffle with exciting prizes. Should you come if you’re not vegan?

Of course. Sample offerings by Chef Curt and our other food vendors who are whipping up plant-based dishes to make any meat eater a believer. Then, check out our demo table

Enjoy cold Modelo during the World Cup matches at the following participating location:

Dock FC – Ivy City Mackey’s Pub Cactus Cantina

Elephant and Castle BlackFinn

Nicks Riverside Grill El Rey

and learn some vegan recipes taught to you by local chefs.

Thirsty? Head over to the full bar for all your beverage needs – don’t forget to bring your ID. 1-5 p.m. Tickets $10. Emergence Community Arts: 733 Euclid St. NW, DC; www.shrublifefestival. wixsite.com/home

SUNDAY, JULY 15 Yoga in the Fun House The National Building Museum is partnering with Snarkitecture to design the 2018 Summer Block Party exhibition. The yoga class in the Grand Hall is accessible to all levels, and the ticket includes both the yoga class, and a pass to the NBM, which is valid until Sept. 3, 2018. “Fun House” includes a sequence of interactive rooms featuring well-known Snarkitecture environments and objects that visitors can explore, as well as new concepts developed for the Museum. The house features a front and backyard with “outdoor” activities that visitors will recognize. Other Summer Block Party installations include “BIG Maze,” “ICEBERGS” and “Hive.” 10-11 a.m. Tickets $20.

National Building Museum: 401 F St. NW, DC; www.nbm.org

WEDNESDAY, JULY 18 Rosslyn Farmers Market: Art of Food Rosslyn’s weekly FRESHFARM Farmers Market on Central Place Plaza celebrates “The Art of Food” on Wednesday, July 18. With live art onsite, come learn about the art of food photography, listen to live music from R&B, pop and soul group the Jarreau Williams Xperience and join the summer festivities in downtown Rosslyn. 2:30-6:30 p.m. Central Place Plaza: 1800 N. Lynn St. Arlington, VA; www.rosslynva.org.

Photos: Mike Kim

SUNDAY, JULY 15 SATURDAY, JULY 21

Devils Backbone’s Thru Hike made its way through Northern Virginia for a fun week including Crafts & Drafts at Courthaus Social and Hiker Happy Hour and Pours & S’mores at The Board Room.

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Belgian Restaurant Week Belgian Restaurant Week is back and better than ever.

Taking place July 15-21, Belgian Restaurant Week is a week of special menus and dinners to celebrate Belgian culture and cuisine and culminating in the celebration of Belgian Independence Day on July 21.

Belgian Restaurant Week: Various locations throughout DC; www.belgianweekdc.com

THURSDAY, JULY 19 Nat Geo Nights: Stories from the World Hear from some of the inspiring new voices at National Geographic, as the 2017-2018 FulbrightNational Geographic Digital Storytelling Fellows returned from a year spent in field.

5:30-8 p.m. Tickets $20.

National Geographic: 1600 M St. NW, DC; www.nationalgeographic.org

THURSDAY, JULY 19

Tunes in in Tunes The Triangle The Triangle

at Milian Park (Mass Ave & 5th St.) 6:30 pm–8:30 pm 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM

• Thursday, July 21: The Oxymorons

Jul 12:

Pebble To Pearl

Jul 26:

Jarreau Williams

at Milian Park (Mass Ave & 5th St.)

• Tuesday, august 2: Alison Carney

Craft Night at Shop Made in DC Join Shop Made in DC, Golden Triangle BID and instructor Cherie Lester of Crafter DC for a night of crafting fun. No previous art or craft-making experience necessary. Delicious Made in DC cocktails and snacks will be available for purchase to enjoy while you craft the night away. 5-7 p.m. Free to attend.

Shop Made in DC: 1330 19th St. NW, DC; shopmadeindc.com

Special concert and family activities for National Night Out at 5th & K Parking Lot

• Thursday , august 18: Justin Trawick Aug 7: Justin Trawick at Milian Park

Stop Stop by bywith withyour yourfriendS, friendS, family, family, and and petS petSfor for free freeSummer Summer concertS concertS

mvtcid.org @MVTCiD

BACKYARD BBQ

IS BACK! BEER COCKTAILS BBQ LAWN GAMES LIVE MUSIC AND MORE!

ing Museum’s Held at the National Build y - Friday evening west lawn every Wednesda Sunday! and all day on Saturday -

401 F Street NW | www.hillcountry.com 38

On Tap | JULY 2018 | www.ontaponline.com

FRIDAY, JULY 20 Convention Center’s Free Art Tour A world-renowned art collection right at your door. The Walter E. Washington Convention Center art collection is the best kept secret in the nation’s capital.

In addition to being a state-ofthe-art convention center, the building is home to one of the largest public art collections in DC outside of museums, with 137 works by 93 artists. One highlight is Sol LeWitt’s “Wall Drawing #1103,” encompassing a three-story staircase. Another is the “Shaw Wall,” a 72-foot wall of dynamic artwork that honors and celebrates the Shaw community, the neighborhood that is home to the Convention Center. 6:15-7:45 p.m. Free to attend. Walter E. Washington Convention Center: 801 Mount Vernon Pl. NW, DC; www.dcconvention.com Embassy of France’s Summer Reception How about traveling to France without airport hustle, jet lag, etc.? This event is a showcase of France and French culture.

This is not a wine tasting event as such, however, it is all-you-can-drink French wines event. Meet and socialize with French professionals, business people and diplomats at the Event. There will be a typical French style finger food buffet prepared by Chef Mark Courseille of Le Café Descartes of the Embassy. They will have an open bar featuring French wines & drinks. 6-9 p.m. Tickets

$45-$75. Embassy of France: 4101 Reservoir Rd. NW, DC; www.merevents.com

SATURDAY, JULY 21 Anthony Bourdain Commemorative Dinner Anthony Bourdain, who died June 8, will be sadly missed, but not easily forgotten. Bourdain launched the publication of his Les Halles Cookbook, named for the New York City bistro where he had been the executive chef since 1998, in 2004 at a dinner in the Fourth Estate Restaurant at the National Press Club. To honor his memory, the Fourth Estate is planning to recreate the six-course meal served that evening, adding hors d’oeuvres.

Proceeds from the dinner will be used to fund a program by the National Press Club Journalism Institute, which will address a journalist’s responsibilities on the reporting of suicide and its prevention. 6:30-9:30 p.m.

Tickets $75-$85. The Fourth Estate Restaurant at The National Press Club: 529 14th St. NW, DC; www.press.org/ restaurants/fourth-estate Fiesta Asia Street Fair The 12th annual National Asian Heritage festival signature event, Fiesta Asia Street Fair, features more than 1,000 performers on five stages representing more than 20 cultures for eight consecutive hours. Live performances by musicians, vocalists, dancers and martial artists; Pan-Asian cuisine; a shopping bazaar; kid-friendly interactive activities; a talent competition; a cultural parade; Bollywood street dancing; and exhibits of traditional and contemporary Asian crafts. 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. Free to attend.

Fiesta Asia Street Fair: 400 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, DC; www.fiestaasia.org

on the scene

For more photos from these And other events, visit the online gallery at www.ontaponline.com.

Photos: John Gervasi

The Plateau at National Harbor hosted two days of beer sipping, bourbon tasting, music listening and barbecue eating at the Beer, Bourbon, BBQ Festival with 60-plus beers and 40 bourbons.

CELEBRATE SUMMER AT

NATS PARK! JULY 5–8

JULY 6 • 7:05 PM

vs.

BRYCE HARPER PATRIOTIC BOBBLEHEAD PRESENTED BY SAIC • FIRST 25,000 FANS

MIAMI MARLINS

WASHINGTON NATIONALS

e v i F l l A t c e l l o C

YOUR PLACE

to

GET YOUR TICKETS TODAY AT nationals.com www.ontaponline.com | JULY 2018 | On Tap

39

WEDNESDAY, JULY 25 Taste of Titanic at National Geographic Experience the golden age of transatlantic steamship. Travel through a one-of-a-kind culinary journey provided by top DC restaurants and bars.

Sample from the actual menu aboard the Titanic, from the haute cuisine served in the first-class dining room to the hearty fare in the thirdclass saloon. 7-10 p.m.

Tickets $60-$70. National Geographic: 1600 M St. NW, DC; www.tasteoftitanic.com

THURSDAY, JULY 26

SATURDAY, JULY 28

Friends of Theodore Roosevelt Island Moonwalk Experience the natural setting of Theodore Roosevelt Island in full moonlight. The unique sights and sounds of the island at night will leave a lasting impression. The 1.5-mile hike will be led by a National Park Service Volunteer who will carry a flashlight. All proceeds benefit the Friends of Theodore Roosevelt Island, a non-profit devoted to preserving and promoting Theodore Roosevelt Island. 16+. 8:30-10 p.m. Tickets $20. Friends of Theodore Roosevelt Island Moonwalk: Theodore Roosevelt Island National Memorial in DC; www.potomac.org/pc-events/ friendsoftheodore rooseveltislandmoonlightwalk

Chop Bar: A Global Food Experience Dine Diaspora presents Chop Bar, a pop-up food event inspired by the ambience of West Africa’s makeshift restaurants, where people gather over food and music. This year, a five-course tasting menu curated by featured chef, Hiyaw Gebreyohannes, co-owner and chef at Gorsha, will bring some East African flavor to the scene.

Ticket purchases include access to multiple course tasting menu, snack bar, curated drink menu and one complimentary drink.

There will also be a live DJ, a marketplace and a photobooth area. 2-6 p.m. Tickets $40-$50.

Big Chief: 2002 Fenwick St. NE, DC; www.dinediaspora.com

THURSDAY, JULY 26 The Vine Grand Opening Enjoy A Night at the Vineyard for The Vine Grand Opening Celebration! Enjoy complimentary wine and specialty cocktails, hors d’oeuvres provided by Hudson Coastal and Lib’s Grill, live music from Trailer Grass Orchestra, and model apartment tours. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Please RSVP at www. thevinersvp.com. The Vine: 10945 Price Manor Way, Laurel, MD; www.livethevine.com

JULY 13-15

COUNTRY FEST SAT 9pm RIDE the BULL Hold on tight and give it a go!

How long can you stay on?

Experience our house-smoked and 2 Silos’ craft brews

Live Music • 10 Bands performing on

9925 Discovery Blvd 40

Manassas, Virginia, VA 20109

On Tap | JULY 2018 | www.ontaponline.com

703.420.2264

stage

events.farmbrewlive.com

BBQ

SATURDAY, JULY 28 Shark Bites & Brews at The Wharf Celebrate the 30th Anniversary of Shark Week at the Wharf’s own Shark Bites & Brews. Local band 7 Deadlies will play all your favorite rock hits and the District Pier beer garden will be pouring shark themed brews. Head over to Transit pier to take a turn on the mechanical shark or play one of the other shark themed games. Must be 21+ to consume alcohol. 1-4 p.m.

Free to attend. The Wharf: 101 District Sq. SW, DC; www.wharfdc.com

Citi Open One of DC’s finest sporting traditions celebrates its golden anniversary this year. Citi Open will take place at the Rock Creek Park Tennis Center from July 28 to August 5. Top-tier talent from all over the world will compete for a prestigious trophy, leading to action that you do not want to miss. Single-session ticket $15. Rock Creek Park Tennis Center: 5220 16th St. NW, DC; www.citiopentennis.com Pop-Up Party Kicks Off DC Swim Week The fourth annual DC Swim Week is here, and in celebration of this trendy showcase of the latest and greatest in swimwear, you’re invited to the launch party at the French Embassy. There’s a VIP red carpet reception leading to the main event, which features a shopping extravaganza, live experience stations, photo ops with #Swimsquad models, DJ and live musical performances

and a special exhibition with the work of renowned local artist Bijan Rasheidi. 5:30-10:30 p.m.

Tickets $10-$15. Embassy of France: 4101 Reservoir Rd. NW, DC; www.franceintheus.org Smooth Jazz Affair Dinner Concert The “Smooth Jazz Affair” makes its third return to the DMV with another live band, dinner concert, featuring Will Holton and Rena Faith. Will Holton is a Nu Jazz R&B saxophonist, producer and songwriter who has performed alongside such notable musicians and artists as Najee, Ruben Studdard, India.

Arie, Stanley Jordan, Keyshia Cole, Carl Thomas, Joseph Wooten and Jon B. The price of a ticket includes one drink ticket.

Attendees can order from the full restaurant menu. 9 p.m. - 1 a.m. Tickets $40 (see website for table pricing). The Tavern at Ivy City Smokehouse: 1356 Okie St. NE, DC; www. ivycitysmokehouse.com/music

SATURDAY, AUGUST 4 Tarara Winery Summer Concert Series with Gonzo Nose Dance under the stars with great food and wine at this summer-long series, with this show featuring Gonzo Nose. Founded in 1996 by musicians from the college of William & Mary, Gonzo Nose is dedicated to playing easy hits.

Enjoy a little bit of everything, from 80s hits to country and classic rock. Individual tickets are available as well as $100 season passes. Tarara Winery: 13648 Tarara Ln. Leesburg, VA; www.tarara.com

CELEBRATE 4TH OF JULY WEEK

AT NATS PARK!

JULY 2 • 7:05 PM vs. BOSTON RED SOX

JULY 3 • 6:05 PM POSTGAME FIREWORKS Presented by Associated Builders & Contractors, Inc.

JULY 6 • 7:05 PM

BRYCE HARPER PATRIOTIC BOBBLEHEAD Presented by SAIC First 25,000 Fans

Stars & Strik es

YOUR PLACE JULY 2–4

vs. BOSTON RED SOX

JULY 5–8

vs. MIAMI MARLINS

for

GET YOUR TICKETS TODAY AT nationals.com www.ontaponline.com | JULY 2018 | ON TAP

41

MLB ALL-STAR WEEK

in the District

By On Tap staff The 89th annual Midsummer Classic comes to DC this summer, with the MLB All-Star game at Nationals Park on July 17. Though most hype will be focused on the players on the field representing the National and American Leagues, the District is set to host a score of events to enhance the occasion. So if you can’t get enough of America’s favorite pastime, these events are home runs.

THURSDAY, JULY 12

FRIDAY, JULY 13

Capitol Riverfront Outdoor Movie Series Showing of A League of Their Own There’s no better way to enjoy a summer evening than watching an outdoor movie along the Anacostia riverfront. Bring your picnic baskets and lawn chairs for an evening of family-friendly fun for an outdoor viewing of A League of Their Own in Canal Park. Movie starts at sundown, free to attend. Canal Park: 200 M St. SE, DC; www.capitolriverfront.org/canal-park

Capitol Riverfront Friday Night Concert Series in Yards Park 19th Street Band will offer a live waterfront concert for people of all ages to enjoy. Make a perfect summer evening of it by eating dinner at one of the beloved restaurants at The Yards. 7-9 p.m. Free to attend. Yards Park: 355 Water St. SE, DC; www.capitolriverfront.org/yards-park

THURSDAY, JULY 12 WEDNESDAY, JULY 18 Yards Park All-Star Installations Larger-than-life inflatable installations will be featured throughout Yards Park and Canal Park, including 15 eight-foot baseballs repping all MLB teams and two 12-foot baseball gloves. This event, presented by The Yards and Capitol Riverfront BID, offers baseball lovers the perfect Instagrammable photo opportunities to enjoy before or after a game or dinner along the riverfront.

Installations are all day, and it is free to attend. Yards Park: 355 Water St. SE, DC; www.capitolriverfront.org/yards-park

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FRIDAY, JULY 13 TUESDAY, JULY 17 GEICO All-Star FanFest The Walter E. Washington Convention Center hosts this five-day festival. Fans will be able to test out their playing skills in new, cuttingedge attractions, meet some of the game’s biggest stars and receive free autographs from MLB Legends. Times and ticket prices vary. Walter E. Washington Convention Center: 801 Mt. Vernon Pl. NW, DC; www.mlb.com/all-star/fanfest MLB’s “PLAY BALL Park” 2018 PLAY BALL Park will be located at The Yards near Nationals Park. PLAY BALL Park is a 56,000-square-foot interactive area where the MLB and its programming partners will provide fun, engaging and educational activities for youth baseball and softball players and their families – all in the backdrop of the Midsummer Classic. There will be “free play” hours throughout the schedule, but the majority of programming

will come from various partners including USA Baseball, USA Softball, The Positive Coaching Alliance, Boys & Girls Clubs of America, and others. Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. - 10 p.m., Sunday and Monday from 10 a.m. - 7 p.m., and Tuesday from 12-7 p.m. Free to attend. Yards Park: 355 Water St. SE, DC; www.mlb.com

SATURDAY, JULY 14 The Color Run All-Star 5K Presented by Nike Presented by Nike, The Color Run MLB All-Star 5K is coming to DC for the 2018 All-Star Game. A pre-race party will be held at the start line with music, dancing, warm-up stretching and giveaways. This event is open to the public and will feature an untimed run around the Anacostia River, through Anacostia Park and Yards Park.

Festivities begin at 8 a.m., registration is available online. Yards Park: 355 Water St. SE, DC; www.thecolorrun.com/locations/ washington-dc MLB All-Star Reception presented by WISE DC Join the DC Chapter of Women in Sports & Events (WISE) to welcome industry professionals from across the country to DC for MLB All-Star Week. Network with chapter members, DC sports leaders and others from the MLB at Crimson Whiskey Bar right in the heart of Chinatown. 5-7 p.m. $45. Crimson Whiskey Bar: 627 H St. NW, DC; www.crimson-dc.com

CATCH GREAT LIVE MUSIC Before Every Friday Home Game!

2018

BUDWEISER MUSIC SERIES

7/6

Justin Trawick & The Common Good 7/20 Lovely Rita

8/3 Scott Kurt & Memphis 59 8/17 As If 8/31 Hand Painted Swinger

9/7 The Reflex 9/21 Turtle Recall

Music @ 5:00 | Game @ 7:05 AN

PRODUCTION

SATURDAY, JULY 14 - SUNDAY, JULY 15 All-Star Summer Riverfest Festival The Yards and the Capitol Riverfront BID will host an unforgettable family-friendly All-Star Summer Riverfront Festival at Yards Park and the boardwalk all weekend. Yards Park will be transformed into a real-life sandlot where attendees can enjoy live music, pop-up bars, tasty food, photo booths, baseball-themed activities and games including bocce, sand art, and oversized board games such as scrabble and chess. 1-5 p.m. Free to attend. Yards Park: 355 Water St. SE, DC; www.capitolriverfront.org/yards-park

SUNDAY, JULY 15 All-Star Legends & Celebrity Softball Game Taking place after the SiriusXM All-Star Futures Game at Nationals Park, the All-Star Legends & Celebrity Softball Game features baseball icons and some of the biggest names in television, music and movies playing a fun-filled exhibition game. Nationals Park: 1500 S Capitol St. SE, DC; www.mlb.com/nationals All-Star Weekend Sunday Cookout Join Lost & Found for a summertime barbecue during MLB’s All-Star weekend. Enjoy food by BBQ Bus Smokehouse from 12-5 p.m. and live 80s, 90s and 00s jams from The Wing Its from 2-5 p.m. Of course, they’ll have lots of cold beer, frozen drinks, bubbly and cocktails too.

12-5 p.m. Free to attend. Lost & Found DC: 1240 9th St. NW, DC; www.lostandfounddc.com Outdoor Showing of The Sandlot There’s no better way to enjoy a summer evening than watching an outdoor movie along the Anacostia riverfront. Bring your picnic baskets and lawn chairs for an evening of family-friendly fun for an outdoor viewing of The Sandlot at Yards Park. Movie starts at sundown. Free to attend. Yards Park: 355 Water St. SE, DC; www.capitolriverfront.org/yards-park SiriusXM All-Star Futures Game This game played at Nationals Park will showcase the best prospects and tomorrow’s MLB superstars. Many of today’s All-Stars – including the Nationals own Bryce Harper – made their first appearances on a Major League stage at the SiriusXM All-Star Futures Game. This will mark the first part of the All-Star Sunday doubleheader. Ticket prices vary. Nationals Park: 1500 S Capitol St. SE, DC; www.mlb.com/nationals

Photos: Mike Kim, Devin Overbey

MONDAY, JULY 16

Every Friday home game, Washingon Nationals fans enjoy a live pregame show from some of the DMV’s best bands and ice-cold beer on the Budweiser Terrace.

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NPC Headliners Luncheon with MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred Just one day before the first pitch flies at the MLB All-Star Game at Nationals Park in DC, MLB Commissioner Robert D. Manfred, Jr., the tenth commissioner in the history of the league, will appear at a National Press Club headliners luncheon to discuss the state of America’s game. Lunch will be served in the club’s ballroom at 12:30 p.m. with remarks beginning at 1 p.m. Tickets $39. National Press Club: 529 14th St. NW, DC; www.press.org T-Mobile Home Run Derby The game’s top sluggers compete to see who can launch the most home runs into the stands at Nationals Park in a single-elimination tournament. This event has become a popular signature of the MLB All-Star Week experience and draws much fanfare. Tickets vary.

Nationals Park: 1500 S. Capitol St. SE, DC; www.mlb.com/nationals

THIS BUD’S FOR YOUR BURGER

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al for nation al for nation

By Fareeha Rehman n any given day in July, you can walk pretty much anywhere in the District and sniff out the smoky aroma of grilled brisket, hot dogs or corn on the cob.

Summer heat is nearing its highest this month, but the grill is even hotter.

It’s National Grilling Month, and if you haven’t yet been invited to a backyard barbecue or don’t feel like you have the expertise to do it yourself, there are plenty of new spots in the DMV that offer that satisfying, charred taste with unique flavors and even some smoked-toperfection vegetables.

Take Cleveland Park-based restaurant Sababa’s pomegranate marinade, for example. The seeds drip a tart yet sweet red juice once bitten into. This juice is combined with labne, a thick yogurt, to douse Sababa’s salmon kebabs. The labne “insulates the salmon from the heat from the griddle, [creating] a crust so that the salmon can stay moist,” says Ryan Moore, executive chef of the newly opened spot.

Moore, who’s been formally trained in Middle Eastern cuisine, uses pomegranate to sweeten the fish. Sababa’s Israeli-inspired menu includes the fruit in multiple dishes, like their chicken liver, which the chef is always encouraging more visitors to try.

“It’s one of those things that most people get squeamish about,” he says. “I sweeten them with pomegranate molasses so they

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Photo: Ashley Sinha Photography

have this amazing, amazing flavor.”

Moore recommends folding the rich liver into Sababa’s soft pita for a DIY sandwich with a hummus spread he makes in-house himself every day.

“I will not relinquish that [recipe] to any of my cooks. I am very proud of my hummus.”

Smoking Kow BBQ, open since April, tries to keep a sweet and savory flavor combination in their barbecued meats.

“We use a few unusual ingredients in our spice rub that accentuate the sweet notes while contrasting with the robust flavors of brisket and pork,” owner Dylan Kough says.

The food truck turned Duke Street brick and mortar’s signature spice includes cinnamon and chipotle powder.

“I definitely prefer a bit more complexity,” he says.

Kough adds that the moist brisket and baby back ribs are the two most popular meats on the menu right now.

“Don’t be afraid to eat brisket fat! It’s my favorite part of the cuisine.”

Myron Mixon’s Pitmaster BBQ in Old Town Alexandria also boasts fast-selling black angus beef brisket and baby back ribs.

The restaurant uses the four-time World Barbeque Champion’s techniques – known as the “Mixon Method” – for consistent smoked flavors. Their water smoker is fueled only by wood, with a fast-burning fire for a cleaner smoked flavor.

Along with using the same awardwinning rubs and sauces Mixon uses during competitions, the pitmasters wrap the meat

“once they have taken on the desired smoke flavor and color,” according to pitmaster John Bennett.

“If you’re not wrapping, then you’re not winning.”

Another technique for flavorful meat is to soak some of them in brine before being smoked.

“The brine helps with locking in the flavor of the meat, keeping it moist and allowing for a deeper smoke ring,” Bennett adds.

The materials chefs use to grill meat impact flavors, too. Momo Yakitori, a new Japanese barbecue joint in Northeast DC’s Woodridge neighborhood, primarily serves grilled chicken (yakitori) smoked over binchotan charcoal.

Binchotan “burns at a higher temperature,” says chef and co-owner Andrew Chiou.

“The charcoal itself doesn’t smoke up. The way they make it, they take a lot more of the impurities out of it. It’s more about quick cooking rather than the slow methods. It’s definitely not like Texas flavors.”

Vegetarians dining with their meat-loving friends won’t miss out. Momo Yakitori’s menu has a vegetables subsection grilled with the same high-heat, smoky flavor. Chiou and co-owner Masako Morishita work closely with farms like Hickory Ridge in Columbia, Maryland to grow mushrooms more optimal for the grill.

“Our shiitake mushrooms are almost twice the thickness of normal shiitake mushrooms,” says Chiou, adding that the farm also increased the water content for

2nd Annual

DC BURGER

BATTLE

Eat Burgers. Battle Hunger.

YOU tell us who makes DC’s best burger!

Proceeds benefit SOME (So Others Might Eat)

THURSDAY, AUGUST 23 | 6-9PM Hill Country Backyard Barbecue 401 F St. NW at the National Building Museum

$30 includes burger samples & all-you-care-to-enjoy beer.

www.dcburgerbattle.com

And more to be announced!

PLUS LIVE MUSIC, GAMES AND MORE

Must be 21+ please enjoy responsibly.

DCity Smokehouse With delivery available via Amazon, you can order a family platter (rib tips, brisket, smoked chicken wings and three large sides) for your next house party.

203 Florida Ave. NW, DC; www.dcitysmokehouse.com District BBQ Try a specialty sandwich like the Okie Joe, stuffed with smoked beef and pork, and chopped and layered under a tangy sauce. 2670 Avenir Pl. Vienna, VA; www.districtbbq.com Hill Country Barbecue Market Treat yourself to their tender brisket and Texas pecan pie for dessert. 410 7th St. NW, DC; www.hillcountry.com Garden District Come for the satisfying smoked meat in their sandwiches and grab a seat at the beer garden while you’re there to try one of their brews. 1801 14th St. NW, DC; www.gardendistrictdc.com Photo: Courtesy of Federalist Pig

their oyster mushrooms. “Because we work with them so closely, we get really great vegetables that are very suited for our style of grilling, which is really high temperature. Most vegetables just burn up normally.”

Federalist Pig’s “Faux Que” sandwich (pronounced like the letter “Q,” not like the Spanish “que”) lets their smoked veggies shine as a main dish as well.

The BLT version of this vegetarian sandwich is stuffed with delectably smoked tofu along with heirloom tomatoes, lettuce, vegan pimento cheese and a vegetarian bacon-like ingredient.

Owner Rob Sonderman says that in any big city, there’s almost a 100 percent chance that at least one of your friends will be vying for a vegetarian option when dining out in a group.

“A lot of the time, they’re going to be the one who’s going to be making that make or break decision on where they end up going,” he says. “Having options for those people to be able to get that whole group in is really why we wanted to have more expansive options.”

The BLT is just one of many iterations of the Faux Que, which changes every week or two. Other

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fillings include smoked portobello mushrooms, shredded jackfruit and smoked spaghetti squash, which imitates the texture of pulled meat.

Whatever your stomach desires, you’ll want to venture to some new barbecue pits for National Grilling Month. Maybe even order some to-go and impress everyone at your summer party. After the compliments flood in, you can let them know about the local grilling establishment that deserves a second taste.

Learn more about these grilling spots below.

Federalist Pig: 1654 Columbia Rd. NW, DC; www.federalistpig.com Momo Yakitori: 2214 Rhode Island Ave. NE, DC; www.momoyakitori.com Myron Mixon’s Pitmaster BBQ: 220 N. Lee St. Alexandria, VA www.myronmixonspitmasterbbq.com Sababa: 3311 Connecticut Ave. NW, DC; www.sababauptown.com Smoking Kow BBQ: 3250 Duke St. Alexandria, VA www.smokingkowbbq.com

NuVegan Café Their natural ingredients are meant to satisfy the soul. Don’t miss their totally vegan barbecue roast served with rice. 2928 Georgia Ave. NW, DC; www.ilovenuvegan.com Rocklands Barbeque and Grilling Company Don’t be afraid of The Belly Buster – the ribs, sausage, quarter chicken, brisket and potato roll are worth sampling, or sharing with a buddy.

Various locations in DC and VA; www.rocklands.com Sloppy Mama’s This food truck doesn’t go small – their meat plates come with two sides. Try the barbecued chicken or the beef or pork plate, served with vegan “Happy Chana” and soft cornbread. www.sloppymamas.com Smoke & Barrel Vegans, don’t feel left out. Their vegan sampler includes vegan wings and spare ribs, and sides include vegan coleslaw and chili. 2471 18th St. NW, DC; www.smokeandbarreldc.com Texas Jack’s Barbecue Add any of their smoked pulled meats to the TwoDoor ‘87 Cutlass Supreme Nachos for a delectably cheesy meal with classic Texas flavors. 2761 Washington Blvd. Arlington, VA; www.txjacks.com Yechon Share a plate of Korean BBQ and shrimp tempura at this 24-hour, Japanese-Korean fusion spot. 4121 Hummer Rd. Annandale, VA; www.yechon.com

Join us Saturday, September 22 for craft beer, food, live music and fun.

When: September 22, 2018, 12-6pm, indoor/outdoor - rain or shine Where: 14140 Parke Long Ct, Chantilly, VA 20151 Benefits: K9 For Warriors

For info visit msbrewing.com/ffxbrewfest #ffxbrewfest Presented by

a part of

Participating Breweries

Sponsorship Opportunities Available

Photo: Courtesy of O-Ku

By Lani Furbank On Tap keeps locals in the know about the hottest new food and drink spots around town and the top culinary happenings of the month. Read on to get the inside scoop on what’s new and notable in the DC area.

NEW

Photo: Courtesy of Mikko

Mikko Open: May 1 Location: Dupont Circle Lowdown: The former chef to the Finnish ambassador just opened his own café serving the food of his homeland. Mikko Kosonen got his start at his family’s restaurant Stockholm and attended culinary school in Helsinki. In the U.S., he’s been cooking for diplomats, heads of state and royalty, but now he’s expanding his audience to include average Washingtonians. Nordic cuisine relies on simple preparations of ingredients

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like seafood, rye, mushrooms, berries and roots. The menu at Mikko is succinct but true to form, with specialties like house-smoked salmon, Danish-style open-faced sandwiches, Finnish soups and Nordic pastries. The café space is cozy, with dishes on display in a cold case at the entrance, a few seats at a counter facing the kitchen in the back and a street-side patio with additional seating, where I enjoyed a Karelian rice and egg pie alongside a gravlax sandwich. There’s also a small market offering a selection of Nordic cookies, chocolates, breads, jams and sauces. A note if you go: the operation is cashless.

1636 R St. NW, DC; www.chefmikko.com

O-Ku Open: June 22 Location: Union Market Lowdown: O-Ku, a Japanese restaurant with roots in Charleston and sister restaurants throughout the South, expanded to the Union Market neighborhood this summer. Each of the locations has its own executive chef with a distinct menu and the DC kitchen is helmed by Chef Bryan Emperor, who has

Photo: Courtesy of O-Ku

studied Japanese cuisine for more than 25 years. His menu features traditional sushi and sashimi as well as modern interpretations of Japanese specialties and wood-fired, robata-style dishes from a binchotan grill. Highlights include puffed rice-crusted Japanese sea bass and an out-of-this-world king crab California roll.

The industrial and minimalist two-story space has ample seating in the bar room and wood-accented sushi room, a plush Japanese whiskey lounge, and a roof deck with views of Union Market. 1274 5th St. NE, DC; www.okusushidc.com

Photo: Courtesy of Ardent Vibe

Tacos, Tortas & Tequila and Buena Vida

Photo: Reema Desai

Pappe Open: June 4 Location: 14th Street Lowdown: Vipul Kapila never ordered lamb vindaloo in Indian restaurants in the DC area because he couldn’t find a version that lived up to the fiery dish he remembers eating growing up in Delhi.

That is, until he tried a truly authentic rendition at a restaurant in Falls Church.

One bite, and he was hooked – so much so that he decided to team up with the chefs behind the dish, Sanjay Mandhaiya and Shankar Puthran, to open Pappe and finally bring a neighborhood Indian restaurant to 14th Street. That vindaloo is a star curry on the menu and I can attest, it is fiery. The menu also features three dishes that Mandhaiya learned while staging in India: butter chicken, chana pindi and taar gosht. Other popular items include vegetable samosas, prawn koliwada, junglee laal maas, fish chittnad and fire-grilled baingan bartha. The drink list draws on Indian spices like cardamom, tamarind and curry leaves for cocktails, sodas, teas and of course, mango lassis.

The space is inspired by a New Delhi fabric market, with silk textiles draped over the tables, lanterns made from fabric-dyeing baskets and murals similar to those found painted on homes in Indian villages. The mural artist, John DeNapoli, is also behind the renditions of traditional Indian scenes that have been infiltrated with modern touches, such as a family in DC sports gear and an elephant marked with Uber and Lyft logos. The restaurant’s name means brother and Kapila said he wanted it to feel casual and welcoming while also capturing the bold, complex and exciting personality of his native country. 1317 14th St. NW, DC; www.pappedc.com

Open: May 4 Location: Silver Spring Lowdown: Serbian restaurateur Ivan Iricanin, who popularized Balkan food in DC with Ambar and BABA, is steering his restaurant group south of the border with two new Mexican concepts in one building in Silver Spring. Both have a unique personality, but the common thread is house-made tortilla products and local, organic ingredients. Located on the ground floor, Tacos, Tortas & Tequila (TTT) is a casual taco joint that serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. The menu spotlights traditional tacos, tortas and tequila in addition to tostadas, quesadillas, taquitos, desserts, milkshakes, agua frescas, and Mexican sodas and beers. For breakfast, there are plenty of egg dishes and coffee drinks. On the second story, Buena Vida is a more upscale restaurant that offers an all-you-can-eat small plates deal for $19.99 during lunch and $35 during dinner. The dishes are more contemporary, like a mezcal-cured salmon tostada, a skate wing chicharron and fingerling sweet potato tostones. And Northern Virginia residents, fear not. Iricanin will be opening a second location of TTT and Buena Vida this fall in Clarendon opposite his Balkan spots. 8407 Ramsey Ave. Silver Spring, MD; www.tttrestaurant.com

NOTABLE Butterfly Tacos y Tortas Date: May 2 Location: Penn Quarter Lowdown: José Andrés’ restaurant group, ThinkFoodGroup, has a spot in Penn Quarter dedicated to testing out new fastcasual concepts temporarily and gathering feedback from customers before officially debuting the restaurant. This R&D space is called ThinkFoodLab, and the latest occupant is Butterfly Tacos y Tortas. Think

Photo: Rey Lopez

of it like the casual little sister of Oyamel, with a menu inspired by Mexico City’s street food. As the name implies, the two staple dishes are tacos and tortas. Don’t miss standouts like the taco filled with shredded beef in a smoky chile sauce and the torta stuffed with seared pork belly, guacamole, salsa, black beans and lime.

There’s also a selection of salads, snacks, desserts and agua frescas, including fried potatoes with mole poblano and strawberry-lime-chile paletas. Fans of the concept will also be able to find the Mexican fare at a second location at D.C. United’s new Audi Field. 701 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, DC; www.thinkfoodlab.com

Photo: Courtesy of Hill Country

Hill Country’s Backyard Barbecue Date: May 16 Location: National Building Museum’s west lawn Lowdown: Hill Country Barbecue Market has once again taken over the National Building Museum’s west lawn for the annual Backyard Barbecue pop-up. It’s all part of the museum’s Summer Block Party, which centers on an interactive exhibit called “Fun House.” On the lawn in the afternoons and evenings (Wednesday through Sunday), the restaurant serves up sliced brisket, pulled pork sandwiches, Texas cheesesteaks and smoked hot link sandwiches, along with cocktails, wine and beer. On Fridays and Saturdays, there’s also live music. The pop-up runs through September 3. 401 F St. NW, DC; www.hillcountry.com/dc www.ontaponline.com | JULY 2018 | On Tap

51

Summer

SOUR

BEER

By Trent Johnson

S

our is the beer of summer.

No, we’re not bestowing the varietal brew with this title simply for alliteration. When your body is being beaten down by 90-degree heat regularly, your taste buds don’t yearn for a malty ale, nor do they beg for a deep chocolate stout. Your tongue desires dry acidity in a beer, something with a lower alcohol percentage so you can return to the bartender or fridge again and again. You want a sour.

Now that we’ve discovered your heart’s sour desire, it’s time to figure out what factors contribute to a delicious sour beer. There are two popular methods to brewing sours: 1) the traditional fermenting process with equipment specifically suited for crafting a sour beer and 2) the kettle method, which allows brewers to sour unfermented wort in a few days by introducing a lactobacillus that transforms sugars into lactic acid, providing a tart flavor.

Many breweries handle the process differently. Some operate in two brewhouses to keep sours separate from their regularly offered varietals, and others just take extreme precautions to prevent contamination. Within these processes comes the additions of fruit flavors and other options that create the unique, tangy flavors that help quench thirst while providing a buzz.

Luckily for us, there are a number of breweries offering sours in the area using both techniques, and if you don’t buy what we’re saying about the summer belonging to sours, perhaps you’ll listen to them.

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Bruery Terreux’s Frucht Raspberry

Bluejacket’s The Jam

Photo: Rose Collins

Bluejacket Whereas most breweries lean one side or the other as far as the methodology for sours, beer director Greg Engbert says Bluejacket does both. With the need to keep sours on two to three taps at all times, the turnover of kettle sours is helpful. But the brewery still uses a mixed-fermentation, barrel-aged process for select offerings.

“We have a steady stream of delicious sours coming out at all times,” Engbert says. “Recently, we released a cherry-raspberry sour called Eighties Fan, and we also had a limited bottling of Mural, a sour brown ale aged 14 months in Napa Valley Cabernet Franc barrels.”

With this diversity, and the production of other “clean” beers, Engbert says the team at Bluejacket is extremely fastidious in their approach. To him, sour brewing is the most traditional practice when it comes to making beer.

“It embraces yeasts and bacteria known for producing wilder, often acidic flavors not typically associated with the cleaner styles created over the last few hundred years,” he says.

“By once again involving some of the wilder flavors born of older forms of fermentation, we are enhancing and expanding the flavor possibility of craft beer today.”

Engbert says that hints of butter, candy corn and Cheerios represent items of flavor you don’t want in your sour, and even though that seems obvious, he assures it’s common.

“We consider a great sour to be one where all flavors are deliciously impactful, yet balanced.

We seek to deliver a clean sour: one that is briskly tart, composted and aromatically inviting, with fruit and funk side by side in harmony.”

Bluejacket: 300 Tingey St. SE, DC www.bluejacketdc.com

Bruery Terreux Bruery Terreux, the sour sister brand of The Bruery, is a brewery in California completely tasked with crafting traditional sours and American wilds. Ethan Adams, the manager at Union Market-based The Bruery Store, says the brand became its own in 2005 when they decided to use two separate facilities to isolate all the diverse bacteria.

“We saw a need after having the experience of an infection issue,” Adams says. “There are a lot of breweries that are still brewing both in the same facility, and it can screw up really good beers. We learned the hard way early on, and since we had the space, we decided to segregate the two.”

This has spurred a friendly competition between Bruery Terreux and The Bruery’s brewhouses, with each offering radically different taprooms on the West Coast.

“The guys at Terreux have been making great sour beers, and figured out some new varieties to level the playing field.”

Nearly all of the sours touch oak at some point at Terreux, Adams says. And a majority of gallons run through their foeder, an 8,000-gallon barrel.

“We like the traditional, historical approach to our sour beers because the microbes take up residence in the wood and the beer sours on its own terms,” he continues. “We feel like there are more complexities and nuance with the traditional method, but a lot of breweries unfortunately don’t have the option.”

Popular Terreux products at The Bruery Store include goses, Berliner weisses and American wild ales.

“Sour and the Rye is an American wild ale, and you’re getting a different level of acidity with those labels,” Adams says. “They’ll still maintain complexities and be very approachable, but the acidity is very high and might pucker a newcomer to sour beers.”

The Bruery Store: 513 Morse St. NE, DC www.thebruery.com/the-bruery-dc

Photo: Courtesy of The Bruery

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Devils Backbone With a Cranberry Gose offered year-round, Devils Backbone doesn’t do too much tinkering when it comes to sour beers. But the ones they do concoct offer a change of pace for the brewery as it shifts the order of operations for a few days, says production brewmaster Joshua French.

“It’s not a hassle,” French says. “We do kettle sours because of the precautions, and it’s interesting because we have to manipulate our one-way system in order to do one. It’s time consuming, because it sits in a mash kettle for 48 hours, and while it sits there you can’t do anything else. You have to rearrange the whole brew house.”

As for the difference between kettle sours and traditional sours, French says it’s generally a personal preference.

“It’s such a divided line in the industry,” he says. “With the kettle, you can take the acidity and start the process there, and it’s very controllable. On the other side, there’s the art and skill of blending different cultures and barrels to achieve the taste you want.”

French is all about the traditional Belgian sours because the taste provides nostalgic feels, but most importantly, he doesn’t want too much meddling in those old-school varietals. Too much of anything in a sour is off-putting.

“I don’t want to drink sour raspberry jam,” he says. “I still want the beer flavor and subtle lactic acid notes. I want subtlety in my sours – that’s what I prefer.”

Devils Backbone brews are carried at various locations throughout the DMV. Go to www. dbbrewingcompany.com for a list of spots to pick them up.

Devils Backbone Basecamp Brewpub: 200 Mosbys Run, Roseland, VA www.dbbrewingcompany.com

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Mad Fox’s Humdinger

Photo: Courtesy of Mad Fox

Right Proper’s Diamonds, Fur Coat, Champagne

Photo: Courtesy of Right Proper

Photo: Courtesy of Devils Backbone

Devils Backbone’s Cran-Gose

Mad Fox Brewing Company

Right Proper

Bill Madden has been brewing sours at the Mad Fox Brewing Company in Falls Church since about 2014, but the first time was a complete accident. After bacteria jumped into a barrel batch of another brew, the team decided to blend and bottle the beer to keep the microscopic invaders from infiltrating the rest of the brewery. In order to sanitize the workspace, Mad Fox painted walls, cleared out the barrels and underwent a sour hiatus.

“Now we’re doing kettle sours because it controls bacteria better,” Madden says. “We’ve been doing that since last year, and we’ve done about half a dozen so far.”

Though he’s only been operating the kettle process for less than a year, Madden says he actively studied the method beforehand to ensure he was comfortable after the sour hiccup in 2014.

“Souring beer goes against everything I learned at brewing school,” he continues.

“You’re always taught to keep those bacteria out. But once you invite them in, you have to control it because if they get into everything, it doesn’t fare well for a kölsch beer or pale ale.”

Mad Fox offers a Berliner weisse called the Humdinger year-round, and the brew showcases light stone fruit notes and tartness.

“We were so focused on getting our Berliner weisse right,” Maddens says. “We wanted to get that first one near perfect before we moved onto other sour beers. Patrons are asking for [fruity] versions, such as our cherry sour. I’m taking steps to slowly work through different styles, so we can perfect what we want out of the flavor profile.”

Right Proper’s Brookland Production House offers four different Berliner weisse sours including Jammy Smears, Convergent Worlds, Vol. 2, and Diamonds, Fur Coat, Champagne.

Using the more traditional method of brewing sours with fermenter tanks and barrels, brewmaster Nathan Zeedner says the strict regimen that brewing sour beers calls is par for the course, as the mainstays haven’t changed radically over the years.

“How I usually explain it is we have one brew house and two breweries within these walls,” Zeedner says. “On certain days, we’re only using specific equipment, and we have it color-coded so we don’t mess up. We use very strict sanitation practices, so we don’t see any carry over. We’re very strict to our fermentation.”

Though the kettle sour method is popular because it requires less equipment such as fermenter tanks, Zeedner feels the taste misses out on the full fermentation process. While the acidity is there in kettle sours, there’s generally less character because of how quick the turnaround is. “[The traditional method] takes longer, and [with the kettle method], you don’t have to segment equipment,” he continues. “And most people are worried about lactate jumping to other beers. But when we allow for our beers to undergo the longer process, you end up with a really beautiful fermentation character because the flavor compounds.”

Zeedner is proud of Right Proper’s family of Berliner weisse brews, saying the beers offer “a strong fermentation character and a pleasing tartness and dryness.”

Mad Fox Brewing Company: 444 West Broad St. Falls Church, VA; www.madfoxbrewing.com

Right Proper Brookland Production House: 920 Girard St. NE, DC www.rightproperbrewing.com

SUPPLEMENTAL SOURS Photo: Courtesy of 3 Stars Brewing

Photo: Courtesy of Atlas Brew Works

Oh hello, looking to skip the article and just find out where you can score some delicious sour beers near you? Well, we caught you peeking, but don’t feel bad. These delicious brews are worth a trip, and here are a few places in the DMV that will give you your fill.

3 Stars Brewing With a rotating list and expansive distribution list, 3 Stars mentioned their American wild ales like Ricky Rose and Two Headed Unicorn, and the sour ale Saber Tooth Unicorn.

6400 Chillum Pl. NW, DC Atlas Brew Works The Ivy City-based brewery has a canned Blood Orange Gose brewed with blood orange and Himalayan pink salt, and Ugly & Stoned, an American sour with “ugly stone fruit.”

2052 West Virginia Ave. NE, DC; www.atlasbrewworks.com Brookland Pint, Meridian Pint, and Smoke and Barrel Beer aficionado Jace Gonnerman – also the beverage director at Brookland Pint, Meridian Pint, and Smoke and Barrel – told On Tap that he gets sours from all over the country. Despite that, and because of the great brewing culture in DC, he’s always rotating beers from local spots as well. For sours, he recommends Right Proper’s Silver Branch Convergent Worlds Vol. 2 and The Bruery’s Tart of Darkness with black currants.

Brookland Pint: 716 Monroe St. NE, DC; www.brooklandpint.com Meridian Pint: 3400 11th St. NW, DC; www.meridianpint.com Smoke and Barrel: 2471 18th St. NW, DC; www.smokeandbarreldc.com

Photo: Courtesy of Brookland Pint and Meridian Pint

Photo: Courtesy of City Tap House

City Tap House In the mood for some variety? City Tap House has a variety of sours on the menu, and you can even partake in multiple at a time with a flight. 901 9th St. NW, DC and 1250 Connecticut Ave. NW, DC www.citytap.com Dacha Beer Garden On the heels of their late-June celebration, Sour Liz, this beer garden is flush with remaining gallons of beer, so hurry before they run out for good. 1600 7th St. NW, DC; www.dachadc.com

Photo: Courtesy of Dacha Beer Garden

Photo: Courtesy of Granville Moore’s

Granville Moore’s Granville Moore’s carries a variety of big format sours, whether bottled or canned, and routinely have at least one on tap.

1238 H St. NE, DC; www.granvillemoores.com High Side High Side offers a variety of sour beers including Old Ox Funky Face Margarita Gose, Collective Arts Gose with blackberry, black currant and lemon zest, and a number of others on draft and in bottles. 4009 Chain Bridge Rd. Fairfax, VA; www.highsideva.com

Photo: Courtesy of High Side

Roofers Union Roofers Union in Adams Morgan offers multiple sour beers, including Sierra Nevada’s Otra Vez, Allagash’s Interlude and even a graft cider titled Fields & Flowers. And that’s only a touch of the expansive menu at this spot. 2446 18th St. NW, DC www.roofersuniondc.com Photo: Mary Godier www.ontaponline.com | JULY 2018 | ON TAP

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By Trent Johnson

All What’s On Tap listings are provided by the venues hosting them.

Greetings, beer nerds! As you likely know, there are a number of fantastic spots in the DMV where you can grab a pint, and their menus are always evolving and adapting to your tastes. If you’d rather avoid the guessing game, check out what’s coming up at a few of these fine establishments.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 4

MONDAY, JULY 9

Brau, Brats and Freedom 4th of July Party Join the crew of DC Brau at Dacha Beer Garden as they celebrate with Brau, Brats and Freedom. DC Brau will be on special and Dacha will be serving up some delicious Fourth of July fare. There will be games in the garden and plenty of chances to win prizes and DC Brau swag. 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Free to attend. Dacha Beer Garden: 1600 7th St. NW, DC; www.dachadc.com

A Superbly Off-Centered Beer Dinner at Chatter Join for a 5-course Dogfish Head Beer Dinner with Calvert Woodley Wines and Spirits. The event includes multiple food items including grilled peach caprese salad, fried green tomatoes, crab benedict, chicken fried short rib and an espresso panna cotta. 6:30-9:30 p.m. Tickets $65. Chatter: 5247 Wisconsin Ave. NW, DC; www.chatterdc.com

City Tap House’s 4th of July Beer-BBQ Battle The City Tap House patio will feature breweries like 3 Stars Brewing Company, Evolution Craft Brewing Company and the Center of the Universe Brewing who will battle it out while serving up barbecue samples, potato salad and coleslaw.

The brewery with the most guest votes will be crowned with the title. For more liquid delight, there will be a la carte frozen John Daly’s and beer floats. City Tap House Penn Quarter: 901 9th St. NW, DC; www.pennquartersportstavern.com

THURSDAY, JULY 5 and THURSDAY, JULY 19 Beer and Board Games at Sugar Shack A little beer, a little sugar, classic board games and a few of your friends - it’s the perfect casual weeknight hang out every Thursday at Sugar Shack Arlington. On alternating Thursdays they’ll have a new craft brewery in house to talk beer and take over the three taps for two weeks. Flights, pints, beer glazed donut hole pairings and more.

4:30-9 p.m. Free to attend. Sugar Shack Donuts & Coffee: 1014 S. Glebe Rd. Arlington, VA; www.sugarshackdonuts.com

SATURDAY, JULY 7 5th Annual Old Town Pub Crawl at Port City Brewing Company The annual Pub Crawl returns for the 5th time on the streets of Old Town. The Port City team will be at nine local restaurants, near the Alexandria waterfront, stamping pub crawl passes and handing out swag. Complete your Pub Crawl Pass by 5:30 p.m. and get a limited-edition pint glass. 2-6 p.m. Free to attend. Old Town Pub Crawl: Various locations in Alexandria, VA; www.portcitybrewing.com

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TUESDAY, JULY 10 The Bluejacket Beer Dinner at Rustico Slaters On this night, Rustico will offer five exceptional beers from Bluejacket alongside a specially designed menu by Chef de Cuisine Aaron Wright. Don’t miss this opportunity to try some deliciously rare treats from this very special Navy Yard brewery. Greg Engert, beer director for both Bluejacket and Rustico, will be back at Rustico as the host for the evening, sharing stories behind the beers, the brewery and more. 7-9 p.m. Tickets $55. Rustico: 827 Slaters Ln. Alexandria, VA; www.rusticorestaurant.com

FRIDAY, JULY 13 and FRIDAY, JULY 27 Brewmaster Tours Featuring Atlas Brew Works Includes an hour-long guided tour of the museum and a local craft beer tasting. Receive one beer flight per person, featuring 4 ounce pours of three local beers, and experience the Brewmaster’s Castle with a drink in your hand.

After the tour, guests are welcome to mingle in the Conservatory and purchase full beers if they wish. 5-6:30 p.m. Tickets $30. Heurich House Museum: 1307 New Hampshire Ave. NW, DC; www.heurichhouse.org

SATURDAY, JULY 14 Mad Fox Brewing Company 8th Anniversary Party Come join the fun as Mad Fox celebrates eight wonderful years with eight exceptional beers at their Brewpub in Falls Church. In honor of this special occasion, they are releasing some new

beers and some rare editions of their favorite beers. There will be live music and the annual Anniversary glass giveaway. Oh, and cake too. 11 a.m. - 11 p.m. Free to attend. Mad Fox Brewing Company: 444 West Broad St. Falls Church, VA; www.madfoxbrewing.com

TUESDAY, JULY 17 44 Beer Comedy Showcase With some of the best beer in DC, what’s a better pair than comedy? Well on top of some of the lowest prices for craft beers in DC, during the show, you can also get an additional $1 off every beer. The show features five comedians, each performing 10-minute sets with their best material. 8-10:30 p.m. Tickets $10-$20.

The Heights Taproom: 3115 14th St. NW, DC; www.theheightstaproom.com Taco Beer Dinner at Gordon Biersch Come join at Gordon Biersch Rockville for a taco beer dinner. They’ll be pairing limited-release tacos that you won’t find on the menu with a curated selection of in-house beers. 6-8 p.m.

Ticket information available soon. Gordon Biersch: 200 E. Middle Ln. Rockville, MD; www.gordonbiersch.com

THURSDAY, JULY 19 Brew at the Zoo Drink beer, save wildlife! Join friends of the National Zoo at DC’s best beer festival. Enjoy great times and great brews with unlimited beer tastings from more than 70 breweries, exotic animal encounters, live music and entertainment, and fare from popular food trucks – it’s a unique after-hours zoo experience.

Proceeds benefit the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute’s mission to save species. 6-9 p.m. Tickets $65. Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute: 3001 Connecticut Ave. NW, DC; www.nationalzoo.si.edu

s e i r r e B GO

THURSDAY, JULY 19 Yoga, Beer and BBQ at the Backyard Barbecue Hill Country Barbecue Market is excited to revive the Backyard Barbecue, a summer pop-up at the National Building Museum (5th and F Streets).

Backyard Barbecue is the place to chow down on authentic central Texas-style barbecue and enjoy live music. Enjoy a one-hour yoga class suitable for all levels, followed by a pint of beer from DC Brau, and dinner from Hill Country Barbecue.

6:30-7:30 p.m. Tickets $20. National Building Museum: 401 F St. NW, DC; www.nbm.org

SUNDAY, JULY 22 Shark Week Paint and Brew Kick off Shark Week with a flight of four beers and follow step-by-step instructions to complete

with

a Shark Week-themed painting. All supplies will be provided. 1-3 p.m. Tickets $35. Forge Brew Works: 8532 Terminal Rd. Lorton, VA; www.forgebrewworks.com

WEDNESDAY, JULY 25 Maryland Blue Crab Feast at Mad Fox Brewing Company Say hello to summer by enjoying a family style all-you-can-eat Crab feast. Happy Hour pricing will be extended until 9 p.m. for the special occasion.

Menu includes all you can eat Maryland blue crabs steamed in Mad Fox beer and Old Bay, butter poached corn on the cob, panzanella salad and famous Old Bay potato chips. 6:30-10 p.m. Tickets $55. Mad Fox Brewing Company: 444 W Broad St. Falls Church, VA; www.madfoxbrewing.com

SATURDAY, JULY 28 Riverside Beer Garden Silent Disco Nestled between the Anacostia River and Nationals Park, home to the Washington Nationals, is the Bardo Brewery. This riverside beer garden in the Navy Yard district is about to be taken over, quietly. In true Quiet Events fashion, there will be three DJ’s creating the soundtrack to your night and hundreds of partygoers drinking and jiving. Come out, grab a beer (or several) and party under the bridge. 9 p.m. - 1 a.m. Tickets $5-$20. Bardo Brewing: 25 Potomac Ave. SE, DC; www.bardo.beer

Jessica Cooter Assistant General Manager, Church Hall

After taking the dead space leftover from an indoor mall, Georgetown’s newest craft beer spot Church Hall is already turning heads with their robust selection of brews and delectable bar food. Opened in late March, this kind of spot was desperately sought after in the Northwest neighborhood by college students and residents alike. We checked in with assistant general manager Jessica Cooter to see how the new bar was fitting in on Wisconsin Avenue.

On Tap: I noticed a ton of DC beers in your rotating draft list, is that a focus for you guys to maintain a relatively local feel?

Jessica Cooter: We do like to have a focus on local beers, if we can, to highlight what people are doing in the area. That worked out well for us, our rotating menu changes pretty frequently, and some might only last a week or a couple of days. The frequency depends on the availability and how well it’s selling, and what our focus of the month is. Right now, we’re trying to do a bunch of sour beers, so it depends on what we can get and how much we can get.

OT: Being in Georgetown, in the midst of upper class people and college students, is there any difficulty to finding the right balance?

JC: Not really, most people tend to gravitate toward the same sort of selections. The college kids and older folks want to the same kind of

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things. A really popular order is to get a beer in a liter glass. We do that for our main draft beers, and everyone really likes to grab those. People like the look of them and just the simple fact that you can get a ton of beer at once.

OT: You have a robust craft menu, how much thought did you guys put into the menu when constructing it, and how much input do the patrons have?

JC: We sit down and do research on the kinds of beers we’re looking for. Distributors bring us samples as well, but we do a ton of that independently.

Photo: Courtesy of Supreme Core Cider

OT: I don’t know of many craft places in Georgetown before. Do you guys feel like you’re filling the craft beer void in the neighborhood?

JC: Hopefully! We like to think we’re filling that void. It’s nice to offer such a wide variety in the neighborhood and it works out for us. We’re happy to be the one fulfilling the need.

OT: How has the response been in the last three months?

JC: I would say it’s been what we expected.

We’ve seen happy hour groups come in and people just responding to the look and feel of the space; those things are always nice.

Church Hall: 1070 Wisconsin Ave. NW, DC www.churchhalldc.com

Photos: Courtesy of Church Hall

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Drink in Style

10

Instaworthy

Bar

Designs

By Travis Mitchell

Photo: Courtesy of 2 Birds 1 Stone

Most people judge a bar based on the quality of its drinks and selection of liquors. But that is just one aspect of the experience. Design plays an influential role in making a bar memorable, with an impact rivaling that of the taste and service. DC’s list of visually stunning bar spaces includes everything from restored Irish architecture direct from Dublin to Wes Anderson-inspired cocktail lounges. Here are 10 of our favorites across town.

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Photo: Courtesy of 2 Birds 1 Stone

Photo: Courtesy of Chicken + Whiskey

2 Birds 1 Stone

Chicken + Whiskey’s Speakeasy

Mismatched glassware and hand-drawn menus welcome thirsty customers at 2 Birds 1 Stone. The underground cocktail haunt features a brick-backed bar accented with white cabinetry and chairs. White brick walls line the rest of the space, which has various seating nooks and benches for groups large and small. It feels lively and intimate all at once, as if you’re hanging out with a drink at your best laid-back friend’s house. 1800 14th St. NW, DC; www.2birds1stonedc.com

There’s whiskey – lots of it – behind the decoy refrigerator door at this Latin American kitchen on 14th Street. Swing open the door and you’ll be met with dozens upon dozens of bottles of brown liquor from around the word, all lined up behind the long wooden bar. Another wooden ledge for perching drinks encompasses the cozy space and makes for easy, hands-free conversation. A chalkboard displays the selection of cocktails, beer and wine while vinyl on the speakers completes the lowkey experience.

1738 14th St. NW, DC; www.chickenandwhiskey.com

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Photo: Farrah Skeiky

Photo: Andrew Cebulka

Cotton & Reed

Dabney Cellar

The team at CORE architecture and design used industrial elements like exposed pipes, a large garage door window and baby blue metal shelving to make Cotton & Reed fit right in as a modern member of the Union Market neighborhood. The big design feature is the bar top, which is covered in wooden hexagon tiles featuring realistic sketch-style artwork of all types of flora and fauna. That artwork alone is Instagram worthy – and it pops even more when paired with one of the bar’s signature rum cocktails. Guest can also gaze back into the distillery and production space. 1330 5th St. NE, DC; www.cottonandreed.com

This underground hangout – an offshoot of James Beard Awardwinning chef Jeremiah Langhorne’s The Dabney – is an ideal spot for sipping wine with seasonal, local food. Edit Lab at Streetsense oversaw the design, which includes a spiral staircase and large chalkboard used for writing the day’s menu. Additional touches like the reclaimed wood bar and shelves and custom-made iron racks for wine and firewood add to the space’s intimate and rustic feel. 122 Blagden Alley, NW, DC; www.thedabney.com

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Photo: Courtesy of the Left Door

Photo: Courtesy of Morris Bar

Left Door

Morris American Bar

Each Left Door experience starts by entering its unmarked door off the corner of 14th and S and ascending the narrow staircase that leads to the bar. Drinking at Tom Brown’s speakeasy is a close-quarters affair, whether you’re chatting under vintage lighting at the bar or nestled in velvet arm chairs in the corner. It’s a fitting ambiance for the menu of both innovative and classic cocktails. 1345 S St. NW, DC; www.dcleftdoor.com

This airy cocktail bar from David Strauss is worlds away from dimlylit speakeasies and underground hangouts, as you won’t find any leather couches or Edison bulbs here. Morris Bar’s two-level space was designed by Swatchroom with inspiration from director Wes Anderson’s The Grand Budapest Hotel. Those visual cues come in the form of pastel shades of blues and greens throughout the room and local DC artwork from Dana Ellyn and Nicolette Capuano. The bar is seated only, leaving plenty of breathing room for enjoying a cocktail and the whimsical décor. 1020 7th St. NW, DC; www.morrisbardc.com www.ontaponline.com | JULY 2018 | On Tap

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The Next Whisky Bar

Photo: Courtesy of The Next Whisky Bar

Retro Washington vibes and modern styling come together at the Watergate Hotel’s Next Whisky Bar. The centerpiece here is a curving wall of shimmering liquor bottles that wraps around the lounge area and glass bar top. The gold color pops against the red chairs and area rugs, giving a contemporary touch to one of DC’s most notable addresses. 2650 Virginia Ave. NW, DC; www.thewatergatehotel.com/the-next-whisky-bar

9

Nocturne

Photo: Courtesy of Nocturne

Shades of dark indigo, pink and blue join pops of vibrant neon in the dimly-lit Nocturne, the 17-seat basement spot hidden beneath Sugar Shack Donuts in Shaw. The bar concept was inspired by “The Abandoned Night in Paris,” which was one of the original cocktails at Nocturne’s Alexandria-based sister bar, Captain Gregory’s. Fittingly, Nocturne’s entrance is themed as a Parisienne salon, with the main bar designed as a garden under the night sky. Nocturne’s table and bar tops shine bright white, illuminating the flight-style cocktails. It’s a stark contrast with the rest of the room, which feels like stepping into a sleek, futuristic party after dark. 1932 9th St. NW, DC; www.nocturnebar.com

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Photo: Courtesy of Delucchi Plus

Photo: Courtesy of Tilt Bar

Rí Rá Georgetown

Tilt at Black Jack

It’s more than just the beer and whiskey that are Irish at this Georgetown pub. Many aspects of the Victorian-style main bar – including the back bar – originated at Gerry Nangles Pub from Summer Hill, Dublin.

Upstairs, the cozy whiskey room features bars and cabinets that were restored from Maddigans Watchmaker and Jeweler on Ellis Quay, Dublin and paneling from the Dublin branch of the Royal Bank of Ireland. 3125 M St. NW, DC; www.rira.com/georgetown

Pass through the doors at the rear of Black Jack to find the colorful, graphic bar top and walls of the pinball-themed Tilt. There aren’t any physical pinball games here, but the feel is evoked through the pinball artwork on the bar taken from actual machines. The rest of the space is similarly vibrant and features nearly wall-to-wall posters and artwork, including the “Tilt” name illuminated in large-scale letters. 1612 14th St. NW, DC; www.tiltdc.com

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SHINE BRIGHTER Blue Moon is a wheat beer brewed with Valencia orange peel for a taste that rises above the ordinary.

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BEHIND THE BAR

By Fareeha Rehman

We’re all guilty of picking a drink from a cocktail menu based on whether or not it will look good on our carefully curated Instagram feeds. Don’t worry, we do it too. In the spirit of embracing all that’s aesthetically pleasing this month, we selected three drinks whose unique garnishes and color combinations definitely make them look as good as they taste. So go ahead, post away – we won’t judge you.

Photos: Fareeha Rehman

Chad Spangler

Photos: Aja Neal

Ian Fletcher

Co-owner, Service Bar

Beverage Director, Calico

On Tap: How important is design when creating a cocktail?

Chad Spangler: It’s the whole package together that’s going to create that experience for you. Just because something tastes good or has pretty good intrinsic flavor doesn’t make it great if the presentation isn’t there. Drinking something is as much a full experience of the senses as anything. It should look great, it should smell great, it should taste great, it should feel great.

On Tap: What do you think guests enjoy most about your juice box cocktails?

Ian Fletcher: I think it’s a nostalgia thing. People just gravitate toward them. It’s pretty unique. We worked with one of the designers that helped design the space; he did the labels and everything for us.

OT: What’s your most aesthetically pleasing cocktail?

CS: Our most aesthetically pleasing drink right now is Rhubarb Vodka Soda. We launched it last year. I love almost monochromatic cocktails or monochromatic things, where you can have all different shades of one color on top of another. So that drink is a really, really aesthetically pleasing bright pink that’s all natural from the rhubarb that we get.

OT: Do you offer any limited-time cocktails?

IF: We use our frozen drink machine. That’s going to be rotating depending on how well they do. But the intention is that there is no set thing in the frozen drink machine. We’ve been doing piña coladas with espresso. We discovered it on accident. My friend and I were drinking piña coladas and we just happened to have espresso as well and [combined them]. Piña coladas are really, really sweet and espresso is tart and bitter, so it works really well. I think we’re going to do a banana daiquiri next.

OT: What else can you tell me about the presentation of your cocktails?

CS: We like to have fun and we don’t take ourselves too seriously in any direction. We do some whimsical things, and we’re not afraid to put a little extra money into making our drinks look great and to get some cool glassware that people are going to talk about.

OT: What makes your outdoor space unique?

IF: On the weekends, the chef is out there grilling. You can have 200 people back here and everything is designed to be sectioned off so even when it’s packed, you don’t really notice how many people are here. It’s kind of like you’re in your own little backyard world. You can smell the barbecue – it’s just a good feeling.

Service Bar: 926-928 U St. NW, DC; www.servicebardc.com

Rhubarb Vodka Soda Rose Soda Vodka Rhubarb Clarified citrus

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Calico: 50 Blagden Alley, NW, DC; www.calicodc.com

Lavender Lemonade Vodka Lemon Lavender Raspberry Giffard Crème de Mure

ARTECHOUSE’s augmented reality app

Photo: Vithaya Photography

SPIKE your cocktail

BRYAN TATE

Mixologist, ARTECHOUSE’s “Fractal Worlds” exhibit (July 7 - September 3) On Tap: What elements of ARTECHOUSE’s “Fractal Worlds” exhibit are incorporated into your cocktails?

Bryan Tate: Fractals as we understand them are geometric shapes.

They’re also very mathematical, so from a looks and presentation perspective, we want to incorporate that fractal element. And from a taste perspective, we want it to taste good. But also, the ratios going into the cocktails are on a mathematical basis – the way that the fractals are formed.

OT: How do patrons use the augmented reality app when trying cocktails?

BT: The augmented reality app gives a next dimension experience of the cocktail that allows the guest to experience it in a way they never have before.

ST. Elder rita 2 oz Silver Tequila 1 oz St. Elder .5 oz Fresh Lime Juice Shake all ingredients with ice & pour into a chilled glass and garnish with lime.

OT: What garnishes do you use?

BT: Dehydrated fruits and egg white. We have a way to print a custom image onto a piece of wafer and then put that on top of the egg white, and that in itself is augmented in the cocktail.

OT: What’s your creative process?

BT: It’s decorating as many layers of the experience as you can. The texture changes what it does with the foam or an egg white. Or use creme de coconut to give it a different texture – paint it with that. It’s really important to have the guest experience the cocktail in as many different ways as possible while trying to align our vision with the artist.

That’s the really fun part where creating cocktails comes into play: trying to turn what they’ve done – unbelievable art – into a drink.

OT: What flavors are in the Fractal Jungle cocktail?

BT: Flavors with summer aspects: watermelon, honey, matcha, vanilla, blackberry, pineapple. Things that are summery without being too light [so you’ll still get] the full experience.

ARTECHOUSE: 1238 Maryland Ave. SW, DC; www.dc.artechouse.com

FRACTAL JUNGLE Lime Mezcal Sherry Vanilla Campari Pineapple Blackberry

For more recipe inspirations visit St-Elder.com | @DrinkStElder ©2018 Produced & Bottled By St. Elder, Ltd., BOSTON, MA. 20% Alc/Vol (40 Proof)

PLEASE ENJOY RESPONSIBLY.

Photo: Courtesy of ARTECHOUSE www.ontaponline.com | JULY 2018 | ON TAP

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Photo: Emory Kristof/National Geographic

Titanic’s bow railing in Titanic: The Untold Story

By Haley McKey We all think we know the story of the Titanic. The world’s largest, most luxurious ocean liner sank in 1912 – a triumph of engineering transformed into unspeakable tragedy.

We now know exactly where she lies, thousands of feet below the surface off the coast of Newfoundland, but the Titanic’s location remained a mystery for 70 years.

Then, her story became entwined with a modern narrative of Cold War technology, the tragedy of lost nuclear submarines and a secret mission. This is the haunting, fascinating tale at the heart of the National Geographic Museum’s new exhibit, Titanic: The Untold Story, open daily through early January.

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National Geographic Explorer Robert Ballard joined the Army during the Vietnam War, but went to graduate school and got a job building submarines. One December night in 1966, he got a knock at the door from a Naval officer.

“He handed me an envelope and said, ‘You’re not in the Army anymore, you’re in the Navy,’” Ballard told On Tap in a recent interview. “That began a long career of living two different lives.”

To the public, he was a well-known oceanographer, writing articles and researching ocean geology and hydrothermal vents. But Ballard kept working with the Navy and requested funding to develop remotely operated submersibles. The Navy agreed,

and assigned Ballard a mission to locate, photograph and study the final resting place of the USS Scorpion, a nuclear submarine that sank in 1968. He was to locate the submarine’s nuclear reactor and nuclear weapons, and to get evidence that would help explain her loss.

There was a problem: it was the height of the Cold War between Russia and the United States, and it was imperative that Ballard’s mission avoid drawing the attention of Soviet intelligence. What better cover story for the mission than a search for the lost wreck of the Titanic?

The Navy added research on one more submarine wreck to Ballard’s plate: the USS Thresher, a nuclear submarine that sank five years before the Scorpion. The scientist was to study both the Scorpion and the Thresher to determine if the nuclear material from both subs was impacting the environment.

Though Ballard already knew what led to the Thresher’s demise, questions about the nuclear material remained. The reason the Scorpion sank, however, was inconclusive.

Still, Ballard discovered her location using a phenomenon known as the sound channel.

“There’s a special layer about 1,000 meters down where all sound is ducted.

If you listen in the sound channel, you can hear noises much, much further away. And we’re pretty sure that whales figured this out a long, long time ago, and that they use it for long distance communication.”

During the Cold War, the U.S. Navy set up listening arrays in multiple parts of the ocean to detect Soviet activity and recorded whatever sounds they picked up. Ballard said the Navy used these recordings to roughly determine the location of the Scorpion.

“We thought, ‘I wonder if we heard her die?’”

Sure enough, they heard the boom as she imploded in the deep. His towed camera system, the Argo, dove to depths of 9,800 feet to find and document the remains of the Scorpion. He had figured out that ocean currents created a debris trail as the Scorpion sank and followed the trail to the wreck.

He then realized he could use the same strategy to find the Titanic. With the allotted time for his mission nearly up, he found the Titanic at the very edge of the search area.

He was awed by what he saw.

“I didn’t expect to be affected by this whole thing,” he said. “I’m a scientist and a naval officer, clinically doing things. But it spoke.

I was bowled over by the impact of being there.”

Pairs of shoes litter the ocean floor around the wreck, marking where people who died and sank to the bottom once rested. Because leather shoes are treated with tannic acid, sea life won’t eat them and they remain preserved.

“It’s a tombstone. Nothing is small down there. Everything’s gigantic in size, but then there are these little pairs of shoes. It draws your attention away from the massiveness and the grandeur.”

Ballard noticed them every time he went back.

“Every time I made a return trip, I always knew, I saw those shoes and I said, ‘That was somebody.’”

He recalled returning to the Titanic in 2004 with new vehicles.

“I’m sitting in my command center with a beautiful high-definition camera and a remote control robot, and I’m just staying there. For days, I wandered the Titanic. And I got closure.”

Ballard’s secret mission was quietly declassified just a few years ago. Kathryn Keane, vice president of public experiences for the National Geographic Museum, was amazed to learn that the search for the Titanic was the cover story for Ballard’s mission.

National Geographic staff were even on board with Ballard during his mission, and still no one knew.

“I thought to myself, ‘I didn’t know that, and I work here,’” Keane said. “If I don’t know this

James Cameron’s design for Rose and Cal’s suite in Titanic: The Untold Story

story, most of the public doesn’t know, either.’”

The new exhibit skillfully blends science, history and storytelling. You begin your visit awed by the technology and the mission’s secret backstory, and end by reading the personal stories of Titanic passengers and viewing amazing recreations of the Titanic’s rooms made for James Cameron’s 1998 film Titanic, which remains one of the most successful films ever made.

It’s a moving experience. Keane noted that this is the 50th anniversary of the sinking of the Scorpion, and the losses of both submarines – the Scorpion and the Thresher – and the “unsinkable ship” have far-reaching effects.

“The layers of tragedy surrounding this story impact generations of people,” she said of the Titanic.

It’s certainly difficult to picture the loved ones of these lost crews and ship passengers waiting in vain for good news without feeling their pain. The last artifact in the exhibit is a letter from President Ronald Reagan, designating the wreck of the Titanic as a memorial site.

Photo: Rebecca Hale/National Geographic

And though undeniably one of the most pivotal moments of his career, Ballard isn’t interested in being known solely as the discoverer of the Titanic.

“My mother called me after we found the Titanic and said, ‘It’s too bad you found that rusty old ship.’ She understood hydrothermal vents and the science I was doing, and she said, ‘Now they’re only going to remember you for that.’”

But as Titanic: The Untold Story shows, Ballard’s contributions to ocean exploration are far greater than a single mission in 1985, and the story of these three lost vessels is greater than the sum of its parts. Keane said she hopes the exhibit inspires a generation of new explorers.

“One of the things we love to do here at the museum is invite families and get young people excited about exploration and science,” she said. “The story of the Titanic is why they’ve come, but if they come out of it interested in science, exploration, even in serving their country, that would be a victory for us because that’s what we do here.”

Titanic: The Untold Story runs from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily through January 6, 2019 at the National Geographic Museum. Tickets are $15. And don’t miss the Taste of the Titanic event on Wednesday, July 25 at 7 p.m. to experience the actual menus aboard the ship, from first-class cuisine to third-class nosh.

Learn more at www.nationalgeographic.org/ dc/events.

National Geographic Museum: 1145 17th St. NW, DC; 202-857-7700 www.nationalgeographic.org/dc www.ontaponline.com | JULY 2018 | On Tap

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By Aja Neal

THROUGH SATURDAY, JULY 7

SATURDAY, JULY 7 - SUNDAY, JULY 8

Other Life Forms Brandon McCoy’s Other Life Forms is the story of two roommates: Jeff, a researcher who seems to have it all together and Ben, a journalist trying his best to keep things from falling apart. Despite their differences, they both try their hands at online dating. One roommate meets someone who seems to be his match, and the other suffers from a somewhat rocky connection. Eventually, an illuminating truth surfaces, which injects humor and chaos into the narrative. Through this play, McCoy aims to prove love exists, even if we are ones standing in the way. Tickets $35-$45. Keegan Theatre: 1742 Church St. NW, DC; www.keegantheatre.com

Deviated Theatre Presents Beyond This summer, Dance Place is proud to present the out-of-this-world premiere of Deviated Theatre’s Beyond. Husband-and-wife duo Enoch Chan and Kimmie Dobbs Chan direct the talented “all-heroine” cast on their interplanetary travels. The story follows Luna the astronaut as she traverses the expanse of celestial skies to the very edge of life.

This performance clocks in at less than an hour, which makes every minute of the dynamic dance and acrobatic aerials that much more entrancing. Featuring Performances by Vivian Chen, Hannah Church, Katie Creed, Catherine David, Kelly Fisher, Christina Gleason, Elizabeth Looby, Katherine Maloney, Lilly Schultz and Stacey Smith. Tickets $15-$25. Dance Place: 3225 8th St. NE, DC; www.danceplace.org

SATURDAY, JULY 7 - SUNDAY, JULY 29 Capital Fringe Festival Capital Fringe Festival always brings a bevy of can’t miss art performances, and The Edge of the Universe Players 2 are linking up with the good people at Capital Fringe to bring you their rendition of Hamish Linklater’s The Vandal.

Originally produced five years ago by the Flea Theater in New York City, this upcoming production stars Alison Bauer as WOMAN, Gianna Rapp as BOY and Tom Howley as MAN. These three nondescript characters address themes of life, death, rage and forgiveness while exploring what it means to be a human in the modern age. The play culminates in a way you’ll never see coming. Another can’t miss show is 50 Ways…, which makes its premiere at the festival. Inspired by Paul Simon’s hit single “50 Ways to Leave Your Lover,” this one-act performance focuses on 50 scenes depicting characters dealing with loss after breaking up with a significant other or being broken up with. Covering a wide range of scenarios, the play allows you to see, and feel, the entire spectrum of fallouts. Five performances are set from July 18 to July 28. Not sure about the first two? Then check out Farah Lawal Harris’ American Wives, directed by Jared Shamberger. Featuring three characters representing wives of America: one old, one young and one the very famous Bald Eagle, the story explores the place of timeless subjects such as identity, love and greed. When the world is changing, how do you stay true to yourself and others? Times and ticket prices vary. Capital Fringe Festival: Various locations around DC; www.capitalfringe.org

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TUESDAY, JULY 10 - SUNDAY, JULY 29 Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre Performs Damned If You Do An exercise in the hypothetical, UCB’s Damned If You Do explores the various “What ifs?” we encounter – and nine-times-out-of-10 refuse to act on – in our everyday lives. Should you tell your friend what you really think of their outfit? Or let your family member know how you really feel about their annoying habit? Before you go off and make any of these changes in your personal life, let the improv troupe that helped launch the careers of Donald Glover, Aubrey Plaza, Amy Poehler, Kate McKinnon and Aziz Ansari give you an idea of what you might be in for. Tickets $30-$84. Wooly Mammoth Theatre Company: 641 D St. NW, DC; www.woollymammoth.net

THURSDAY, JULY 19 MONDAY, JULY 16 Bootleg Shakespeare: Henry VI, Part 3 In what is sure to be a whirlwind mixture of rehearsal and improvisation, the Taffety Punk players bring the saga of the Henry VI trilogy to a close. Bootleg Shakespeare’s unique method involves having all actors memorize lines, rehearse once and then put on the show, regardless of what happens next. In their commitment to make theatre affordable the show is free to attend, though tickets are not available presale and are first come first served day of. Folger Theatre: 201 E. Capitol St. SE, DC; www.taffetypunk.com

Wait Wait...Don’t Tell Me NPR is setting up shop in Virginia and inviting us to witness a live recording of the latest episode of this comedic current events quiz show. Join host Peter Sagal and scorekeeper Bill Kurtis as they see what celebrity panelists and professional funny people Alonzo Bodden, Helen Hong and Mo Rocca really know about today’s news and pop culture. Podcast at 8 p.m. Tickets $40-$80. Filene Center at Wolf Trap: 1551 Trap Rd. Vienna, VA; www.wolftrap.org

NATIONAL DANCE DAY THROUGH SUNDAY, JULY 22 On the Town The musical On the Town is a frantic search for love set in 40s era New York City, where the main characters only have 24 hours on the shore before being returning to war. Gabey, a hopeless romantic, is determined to find that month’s Miss Turnstiles, a woman he’s only seen on a subway poster, and his shipmates Ozzie and Chip aim to help him.

Along the way, they become enamored with a quirky cabbie and an already engaged anthropologist. Leonard Bernstein constructed the score for this production, including vibrant classics like “New York, New York” (which has even been parodied in The Simpsons), among many other Broadway hits. This number is chock full of dance sequences, running the gamut from ballet to jazz, and everything in between.

Some of DC’s more well-known actors take on these iconic roles once played by the likes of Frank Sinatra and Gene Kelly, including Evan Casey, Rhett Guter, Sam Ludwig, Donna Migliaccio, Tracy Lynn Olivera, Bobby Smith and Rachel Zampelli. This slightly scandalous musical provides a ton of twists and turns, but it’s sure to be a thrilling, wild ride. Tickets $64-$84. Olney Theatre Center: 2001 Olney Sandy Spring Rd. Olney, MD; www.olneytheatre.org

SATURDAY, JULY 28 National Dance Day 2018 Since 2010, the Dizzy Feet Organization (co-founded by So You Think You Can Dance’s Nigel Lythgoe and Adam Shankman, the man behind Hairspray and the beloved Step Up franchise) has encouraged Americans “to embrace dance as a fun and positive way to maintain good health,” and this year is no different. Gather at the Kennedy Center for this annual celebration of dance, packed with fun activities and a multitude of performances for dancers and non-dancers alike.

Each year, they come up with an original routine for all patrons, including those with disabilities, to learn and perform. In years past, there have been performances by DC’s own Culture Shock Hip Hop dance crew, Top Naach Bhangra ensemble, Abada Capoeira DC and Fairfax Chinese Dance Troupe, to list a few. So, dust off those dancing shoes and get ready to show us your best moves. 2-10:30 p.m. Free to attend. The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts: 2700 F St. NW, DC; www.kennedy-center.org www.ontaponline.com | JULY 2018 | On Tap

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By Keith Loria

T

he heartwarming movie Dave was released 25 years ago, and the Kevin Kline/Sigourney Weaver political comedy became one of the most popular movies of 1993. The film follows a high school teacher named Dave Kovic – who also happens to be a dead ringer for the President of the United States – as he’s thrust into stand-in mode to help the country avoid a national scandal when the real commander in chief gets ill.

A world-premiere musical based on the movie makes its debut at Arena Stage from July 13 to August 19. The show is written by a trio of heavyweights – three-time Tony Award-winner Thomas Meehan (Annie, Hairspray, The Producers), Nell Benjamin (Mean Girls, Legally Blonde) and Pulitzer Prize and two-time Tony Award-winner Tom Kitt (Next to Normal, If/Then) – and directed by Tina Landau. Drew Gehling, who originated the role of Dr. Pomatter on Broadway in Waitress, plays the demanding dual role of Dave and President Bill Mitchell, while First Lady Ellen Mitchell is portrayed by Broadway vet Mamie Parris.

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Artwork: Courtesy of Arena Stage

“I love the film and was really excited to audition for this project,” Parris says. “It’s always interesting to hear when someone is inspired by something or adapting something and looking at a piece [to see] whether it sings. When I first saw this material, I knew the story really sang because it’s a fairytale about what a man can become. That really lends itself to being musicalized.”

Parris recently starred in the Cats revival as Grizabella, belting out “Memory” eight times a week. Other Broadway credits include School of Rock, Ragtime and The Drowsy Chaperone. One of the things she likes about getting to play the First Lady is not only is it a fun love story, but she also gets to play a powerful female character.

“It’s always thrilling to be asked to portray a strong, thoughtful, confident, independent, assertive woman because a lot of those roles aren’t written,” she says. “This is really a very human, multidimensional and complex woman.”

Fans of the movie won’t be disappointed as many of their favorite scenes are represented in one way or another, but one doesn’t need to be familiar with the source material to enjoy it.

“It’s a wonderful film and incredibly funny, but at the same time, if you get a little too precious with that material, it may not translate quite as well for a stage production – especially one done 25 years after it was original written,” Parris says. “All the charm and story from the original is there, but there’s a new facet that really breathes new life into it.”

The musical also includes Broadway favorites Douglas Sills (The Scarlet Pimpernel) and Jonathan Rayson (Little Shop of Horrors), as well as a collection of talented regional and New York-based actors.

Vishal Vaidya, a Burtonsville, Maryland native and American University graduate, is part of the ensemble and thrilled to be part of a new work so close to home.

“It’s always nice to be here,” Vaidya says. “The theatre community in DC is so strong, and so much great theatre is happening here.

Personally, it’s been nice to come back and reflect on how I’ve changed as a person and also get to see how the DC theatre [scene] has evolved and changed.”

Vaidya made his Broadway debut last April in Groundhog Day, and local credits include Ford’s Theatre’s 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee as Barfee and Adventure Theater’s Frog and Toad as Frog, earning a Helen Hayes nomination. He was drawn to Dave because of the subject matter and people working on the show.

“I wanted to work with Tina [Landau] for a really long time,” he says.

“She is such a great visionary. She wants everyone to be involved and on the same page. Tom Kitt and I have done a bunch of work in development together and I think his work is incredible. They were the main draw for me.”

Plus, the story is one that he believes is perfect for today’s political atmosphere.

“The moral of Dave is that it’s about how we can all make changes or do our part for the greater good,” he says. “Even if we think we are just a normal citizen, which is what Dave is in the beginning, we think we can’t make a difference – but he has to. He may not have the experience or connections, but he has to take action and he learns to do that.”

Parris adds that one of the things the script does particularly well is reflect a modern storyline while also standing completely apart from the current political climate.

“I’m impressed by that because I think that’s hard to do,” she says.

“Dave is remarkably apolitical and I think it can be appreciated by both sides of the aisle, which the writers deserve a lot of credit for.”

Dave runs from July 13 to August 19 in Arena Stage’s Kreeger Theater. Tickets start at $96. Learn more about the production and ticket discounts and deals at www.arenastage.org.

Arena Stage: 1101 6th St. SW, DC; 202-488-3300; www.arenastage.org

Photos: Michelle Goldchain

“Dave is remarkably apolitical and I think it can be appreciated by both sides of the aisle, which the writers deserve a lot of credit for.”

Guests at Nat Geo Nights: Lost Cities learned how Nat Geo explorers set out to discover what happened to the lost colonists of Roanoke, and how one explorer located a hidden Mayan metropolis.

www.ontaponline.com | JULY 2018 | On Tap

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NoVa Native

Patton Oswalt Set for Kennedy Center Debut

By Keith Loria

Patton Oswalt can be described as something of a Renaissance man in entertainment. He’s found success as an author (both books and graphic novels), actor (in films and on TV), voice-over artist (video games, animation and TV) and on the comedy circuit.

The latter is where his true passion lies, as the comedian explains that everything he does is geared toward allowing him to continue doing comedy live in front of an audience.

“Acting in TV and film is just a way for me to increase my exposure and get the chance to do more stand-up,” Oswalt says. “I love the creativity of the business. It’s a happier life for me to live creatively, and it’s something I am always going to do.”

Raised in Sterling, Virginia, Oswalt attended the College of William & Mary where he majored in English. The idea to try comedy as a career came sometime between his freshman and sophomore year, and once the bug hit, he never looked back.

“It wasn’t my game plan when I started, but it developed organically and by senior year, it was all I wanted to do,” he says. “Back then, DC was a fun scene, but it was much more predicated on who was making more money and who was famous. Creativity didn’t really come first. It was more about status.”

Looking for bigger things, Oswalt packed his bags and started making a name for himself in San Francisco on its rising comedy circuit. From there, he headed to Los Angeles and hit the big time.

“The circuit in San Francisco was amazing – it was the opposite of DC. It was more about who was doing original stuff. Then I went to Los Angeles and there were different scenes within the scenes, which was fascinating to me.”

Since 2003, Oswalt has appeared on seven TV comedy specials and released eight critically acclaimed albums, with his 2016 Talking for Clapping recording earning him a Grammy.

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“Acting in TV and film is just a way for me to increase my exposure and get the chance to do more stand-up. It’s a happier life for me to live creatively, and it’s something I am always going to do.”

“I love how everything I say came from nothing but now it’s a living thing outside of myself, living creatively.

There’s nothing in the world like it.”

On July 21, the comedian will play two shows at the Kennedy Center as part of the District of Comedy Festival, making his debut in the historic theater. Although he has memories of seeing comedy legend Gallagher and old film noir movies at the Kennedy Center when he was younger, he never dreamed that he would one day perform there.

“It feels good to be back in the area,” he says. “It’s a little surreal as I started doing comedy in DC in 1988. It’s going to be fun to be back in my neighborhood. At the time, my dreams weren’t big enough to think about playing at the Kennedy Center. I was only looking to get a solid 10 minutes.”

Oswalt is planning all-new material for the night, working on some of what he expects to be part of his next TV special. But don’t ask him for specifics, as he warns, “You should never ask a comedian what he’s going to talk about!”

His one hint is that his fans can expect some strong truths about what he’s seeing in the world.

“Being onstage in front of a crowd is just a great adrenaline rush. I love how everything I say came from nothing but now it’s a living thing outside of myself, living creatively. There’s nothing in the world like it.”

Although many people know him from his first TV guest appearance – Seinfeld’s classic “The Couch” episode – his biggest claim to fame early in his career was playing Spence on the Kevin James CBS comedy The King of Queens.

“One of the co-creators of [The King of Queens] was watching an HBO special of mine, and just saw me as Spence. I felt very lucky to get that part.”

Oswalt will soon be headed back to California to begin work on two network TV shows he’s a part of. He currently stars as Principal Ralph Durbin on NBC’s comedy AP Bio, which was recently picked up for a second season, and he’ll enter his sixth season as the narrator for ABC’s The Goldbergs in the fall.

“Michael O’Brien created AP Bio, and his stuff is just on the outer rim of absurdity. The fact he gets to do it in the format of a sitcom is amazing, and I’m so lucky that I get to be a part of it. For The Goldbergs, I pop in about once a week and it’s really fun. It uses nostalgia as a Trojan horse into general emotion and empathy, and that’s what I really love about the show.”

Before his TV shows pick back up, catch him live when he headlines Kennedy Center’s District of Comedy Festival on Saturday, July 21.

Shows at 7 and 9:30 p.m., tickets start at $49. Purchase tickets at www. kennedy-center.org and learn more about the comedian at www. pattonoswalt.com.

NAT GEO NIGHTS Where social meets smart EVERY THIRD THURSDAY

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Join us for special monthly happy hours with stories from National Geographic Explorers, fun interactive activities, lively music, food, and drink specials at our cash bar.

THURSDAY, JULY 19

NAT GEO NIGHTS: STORIES FROM THE WORLD Hear from some of the inspiring new voices at National Geographic. Learn about the endangered seabirds of New Zealand with Abby McBride, the aquatic insect world of glacial Chile with Isaí Madriz, children refugees who fled the Spanish Civil War in 1937 with Destry Sibley, the story of religious identity in Kyrgyzstan with Toby Cox, and Taiwan’s vibrant culture of sustainability with Lilly Sedaghat.

V I S I T N AT G E O . O R G / N AT G E O N I G H T S

NAT GEO NIGHTS EVENT PARTNERS

WASHINGTON, DC BL

The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts: 2700 F St. NW, DC; 202-467-4600; www.kennedy-center.org

5:30–8 PM

17TH & M STREETS NW

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FARRAGUT NORTH & WEST

www.ontaponline.com | JULY 2018 | On Tap

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Music Venues with a View

By M.K. Koszycki

It’s no secret that DC is home to some of the best music venues in the country, attracting local to international acts and packing concert halls with fans every night of the week. Besides booking amazing talent, these venues provide beautiful spaces for music fans to congregate. From Frank Gehry-designed outdoor music meccas like Merriweather Post Pavilion to the retro-inspired personal touches of Villain & Saint, we picked a handful of our favorite spots offering more to look at than just the bands onstage.

Photo: D-Hi aka Donnie G

9:30 Club

When celebrating 9:30 Club’s 35th anniversary, owner Seth Hurwitz had the idea to create a library of records of bands that had headlined the iconic venue in chronological order based on the album they had toured on. While initially part of their anniversary celebration, the visceral reactions the Hall of Records caused was enough to clear out part of the venue and make it a permanent installation.

“The time, effort and metal work put into the installation made it obvious that it couldn’t just be a one-week experience, especially when we saw the way people reacted to it,” says I.M.P. Communications Director Audrey Fix Schaefer.

The installation continues to draw visitors to the club, allowing them to reconnect with artists and reminisce on shows 9:30 has hosted over the years.

Photo: Richie Downs

Chrysalis Theatre

In partnership with the nonprofit Inner Arbor Trust, this gorgeous green structure tucked in the woods on Merriweather Post Pavilion’s Symphony Woods property – just 200 yards from the main stage – is a venue by day and lighted sculpture by night.

The Marc Fornes-designed stage is modeled after, you guessed it, a chrysalis, and is made of 4,000 aluminum sheets. While Chrysalis hosts events and concerts with a special focus on family-friendly and communty programming, it’s completely open for use when not hosting an event.

By day, you can sit, read a book, and enjoy the beautiful greenery of the space. By night, you can check out the captivating lights embedded within the structure.

10431 Little Patuxent Pkwy. Columbia, MD; www.innerarbortrust.org

815 V St. NW, DC; www.930.com

Photo: Josh Brick

Photo: Danielle Lavis Photography

Gypsy Sally’s Vinyl Lounge

Merriweather Post Pavilion

Gypsy Sally’s vinyl lounge is “a bit of a mystery,” according to owner David Ensor.

“The Vinyl Lounge is designed to be a getaway,” he says. “As you enter from the main room or back door, you are greeted by an orange 70s VW van in an all-white room with black curtains.”

The eclectic outpost within the Georgetown music venue features a wide range of acts and a retro feel.

“When you reach the end of the darkened red hallway to your left, you find a brightly lit, small stage flanked by a bright red bar,” Ensor continues. “The long, light gray wall ahead is hung with various sized of photographs of the Grateful Dead. It’s a place to explore, scratch your head and wonder what the hell you just walked into.”

The roof of the Frank Gehry-designed outdoor amphitheater collapsed from tempestuous winds this past winter. Thankfully, no one was hurt, and the new and improved roof is now ready for Merriweather’s summer season.

“Once you learn everyone’s okay, it just becomes a mechanic’s job,” says I.M.P.’s Audrey Fix Schaefer. “The roof fell on Saturday, and by Sunday, we were in our offices with new plans.”

While the roof is ready for outdoor concert season and lends an even better view to concertgoers with lawn seats, visiting artists also have a top-of-the-line experience in store for them. Recent renovations to the venue also include a 40,000-square-foot backstage area modeled after a 1950s motel that’s able to accommodate up to 10 bands – complete with a pool, cabanas and an onsite masseuse for visiting performers.

3401 K St. NW, DC; www.gypsysallys.com

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10475 Little Patuxent Pkwy. Columbia, MD; www.merriweathermusic.com

Photo: Joy Asico

Photo: John Shore

Pearl Street Warehouse

Rock & Roll Hotel

The multi-use space is one of three music venues that now occupy District Wharf, but its layout and design make it totally unique.

“We built a convertible space featuring garage doors that can open up the venue to the diner area, or close it off for a private event,” say owners Bruce Gates and Nick Fontana. “We also have the ability to open the doors to Pearl Street, creating an outdoor space where we can interact with the community and people exploring The Wharf, exposing them to great live music. “ The inviting space also features an upstairs seating area for a great vantage point during a live show.

The intimate H Street venue has some spooky vibes, due in part to the fact that it used to be a funeral home. While that didn’t necessarily inspire the design, you can still see its influence in the dark, plush atmosphere of the three-level space. It’s also one of the few music venues in the country to offer a rooftop deck, enticing concertgoers to grab a bite before and after shows and providing a neighborhood hangout for H Street residents.

“We knew how unique it would be to have a music venue with a rooftop deck in DC – a first,” says co-owner Steve Lambert. “We wanted a space that was open year-round where people could socialize without having to go to the concert hall or to the DJs on the second floor.”

33 Pearl St. SW, DC; www.pearlstreetwarehouse.com 1353 H St. NE, DC; www.rockandrollhoteldc.com

Photo: Courtesy of RW Restaurant Group

Photo: Courtesy of Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts

Villain & Saint

Wolf Trap’s Filene Center

Owned by local chef Robert Wiedmaier, this Bethesda venue and restaurant takes a “music first, food second” approach to everything that’s done in its 60s and 70s-inspired space.

“It’s comfortable, worn-in and reminiscent of a bygone era, like Keystone Korner in San Francisco,” Wiedmaier says. “It feels familiar.

When you walk into a place like Villain & Saint, you can tell a lot of acts have come through. It’s a place [where] musicians would hang out if they were not performing.”

He notes framed artwork of legendary musicians, a saloon-style bar and gramophone “horns” from England turned into lighting fixtures as some of the venue’s most unique design accents.

Wolf Trap’s programming is as one-of-a-kind as its setting. The venue is also a national park, nestled into the lush forests of Northern Virginia, and is easily accessible to DMV residents.

“Every aspect of the pavilion is designed to enhance the experience for artists and audiences,” says Wolf Trap President and CEO Arvind Manocha about the Filene Center. “I think the extensive use of natural materials, like the Douglas fir, coupled with the setting – nestled in over 100 acres of permanently protected lands, including rolling hills and a forest complete with walking trails and ponds – makes Wolf Trap an urban oasis.”

1551 Trap Rd. Vienna, VA; www.wolftrap.org

7141 Wisconsin Ave. Bethesda, MD; www.villainandsaint.com

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Photos: Brandon Shields

By Courtney Sexton et’s be honest, has anyone with even the slightest desire for rock star status not responded to a Craigslist ad at least once? I definitely ended up in someone’s basement once trying to do vocals over shoegaze while wondering if I’d make it home alive to feed my dog. Okay, that incident aside, I’ve heard many Craigslist musician meetup stories that were way more successful than mine.

Take hometown DC duo NUEX, for example. Something told singer-songwriter Camille Michelle Gray to respond to an ad seeking a vocalist posted by drummerproducer Teddy Aitkins. Fortunately for them both (and for us), neither was an axe murderer and it was pretty evident from day one that there was musical chemistry between them.

NUEX (pronounced “new”) is a play on the French word “nue”, which means naked. It’s a fitting name for the sonic duo that emerged from that fated Craigslist meetup more than four years ago. Working hard to pull tight, original tracks from their small in-house operation, NUEX’s sound is often both new and raw, emotion stripped bare and laid out for us to hear.

“Something that I want people listening to this music – or any music – to know is that

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when you’re listening to a song, especially the ones that are as emotional as ours, they’re like listening to someone’s soul or their diary,” Gray said. “So while you are jamming, don’t forget that each song has a little throbbing piece of our soul.”

And Gray does certainly have some soul vibes, but she also brings something fresh to the table. Her vocals are reminiscent of an old-school lounge singer with all the deep sadness, but she’s also got a hell of a lot more spunk. She isn’t going to lay on a piano and cry; she’s going to light up like a laser beam and tell you what’s up.

Aitkins, who is responsible for the otherworldly beats that drop below Gray’s smoky vocals, suggests the laser effect is intentional.

“We both have a big influence in space and stars and things being ethereal,” he said.

The two concur that the biggest influence on their work is recognizing and attempting to channel “the interconnectedness of everything.” The resulting sound is sultry (and sometimes sassy) robotica.

NUEX has hit all of the stops for “up-andcomers” in DC. Since 2014, they have played with Sofar Sounds and Luce Unplugged at the National Portrait Gallery, and were selected

by Brightest Young Things to represent the city at SXSW 2017’s DC soundstage.

Jammin Java: 227 Maple Ave. E, Vienna, VA 703-255-1566; www.jamminjava.com

Photos: Devin Overbey, Loren Probish

In May, the duo released their long-anticipated, five-track EP Affectus. The record has given them the boost they said was needed to keep moving forward, but now they’ve got the bug and are impatient for more. Indeed, Gray and Aitkins are refreshingly honest about not just the magic, but also the frustrations that come along with trying to “make it” musically – and trying to touch people creatively.

Balancing careers, families and gigs, it was difficult, they said, to play shows for three years and not have a physical body of work to point people to. It also made taking themselves seriously a challenge. They describe the EP release as a “relief.”

“For me, I feel like there’s always more room to grow,” Aitkins said. “I always feel like I could do better. Our sound is always evolving. So yeah, I think we’ve grown, but overall there’s still a lot of stuff that people have not heard that we’ve created.”

Gray adds that the EP was “definitely a catapult,” making the pair more driven and ready to get some of their newer work out for the public to experience.

“And that’s just selfishly,” Gray said. “I really want people to see what else we’re made of. The five songs on the EP are great, and we chose them on purpose because of what they meant to us and they’re strong.

But as Teddy has already said, we’re so excited to have the door open and you guys walk through our little [world].”

And we should soon get a chance to peek a bit further into that world. During our interview, Gray and Aitkins teased two new videos for the singles “Eyes” and “Billie”. Working with cinematographers and producers Abe Vilchez-Moran and Kunitaro Ohi, Gray and Aitkins have been “floored” by how two other artists’ visions could make their own work come alive in a way they hadn’t conceived.

For “Eyes” especially, they said, having “everything to do with [the song], but not being physically a part of the video” was an awakening experience.

“The video made it so much more emotional than it ever was,” Aitkins said. “Watching it gave me a whole new respect for the song.”

Learn more about NUEX at www.wearenuex.com and keep your eyes peeled for new video releases. And in the meantime, catch the duo doing that sultry thing they do at Jammin Java on Monday, July 16 when they open for Mobley. Doors at 6:30 p.m., show at 7:30 p.m.

Tickets are $10-$20.

Every Thursday in June, Rosslyn Rocks! on Central Place Plaza hosts live music from local bands such as White Ford Bronco and Driven to Clarity, and wine and beer at the outdoor bar.

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Photo: Connor North

KNOX HAMILTON

BREEZES THROUGH DC

By Jon Kaplan

nox Hamilton’s vibe isn’t what you’d immediately expect from a band out of Little Rock, Arkansas.

But the three bandmates aren’t claiming to play traditional Southern music. Instead, they’re drawing from all of their influences to make something modern and new.

“I think just like any band, our sound comes from combining the taste and styles of all the individual personalities in the band,” said lead singer Boots Copeland.

“We grew up on 70s, 80s and 90s pop, and some of our biggest influences are The Killers, The Beatles, Michael Jackson [and] Mew.” The band’s current tour, which brings them to Gypsy Sally’s on July 19, is called “The Beach Boy Tour.” In their photos, the musicians are decked out in brightly patterned Hawaiian shirts. There’s also a palm tree in their band logo, and their music is often referred to as “breezy.”

Knox Hamilton exploded onto the national scene in 2014 with their single “Work It Out” from their EP How’s Your Mind. The earwormy song climbed the charts, spread all over the radio and has now been

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“We’ve been making our own music together since we could pick up drumsticks and guitars.”

streamed on Spotify almost 8 million times. When the tune became a hit, the band members were still working day jobs in Little Rock.

“We’d been writing for fun, just for friends and family to hear, but never tried to release anything like that,” Copeland said. “‘Work It Out’ felt like the one that could get some traction though. It’s still surreal to know that so many people have heard it all over the world. Crazy.”

Part of what makes Knox Hamilton work is the fact that there’s another Copeland in the band: Boots’ brother Cobo on drums. The two share an unspoken connection that helps to guide and shape the band’s unique sound and rhythms. Their dad was a Pentecostal preacher, and the boys played music in his church growing up. Their mom was also a singer, so music came naturally.

“We’ve been making our own music together since we could pick up drumsticks and guitars.”

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“It definitely takes our old man band about a week to get our sea legs.”

The band has a new EP coming out this month, full of new songs with the signature Knox Hamilton sound. The first two singles, “Trade My Trips” and “Video Sunshine,” are already making waves.

Their songwriting process is a collaborative one, Copeland said, also involving guitarist Drew Buffington.

“Typically, one of us will bring an idea for a song to the table and the band will put our collective Knox Hamilton sheen on it.”

The band’s live show has evolved since the early days, Copeland said, confessing that watching early footage of the band’s live performances is “cringeworthy.”

“We’ve gotten a lot more comfortable onstage.”

For the band members, who are now husbands and fathers, the touring life still takes some getting used to. When asked how they were prepping for the upcoming tour, Copeland joked that they were doing “a lot of push-ups.”

“It definitely takes our old man band about a week to get our sea legs,” he said.

The life of this indie band may not be as “glamorous” as that of other rockers, but their relatability makes them even more likable. And Copeland doesn’t let the band’s humble vibe keep him from joking about the band’s fortunes as Knox Hamilton prepared to venture out once again on the road.

“After this tour, we will probably have made enough money to vacation in Fiji,” he said, “or at least Branson [Missouri] for an extended weekend.”

Catch Knox Hamilton at Gypsy Sally’s on Thursday, July 19. Doors at 7 p.m., show at 8:30 p.m. Tickets are $13-$15. Learn more about the band at www.knoxhamilton.com.

Gypsy Sally’s: 3401 K St. NW, DC 202-333-7700; www.gypsysallys.com

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By M.K. Koszycki, Michael Loria and Aja Neal

FRIDAY, JULY 6

Pusha T The first time I heard about Daytona, the new Pusha T record, was at work. Everyone was talking about the sevensong album – and even the guy who never tweets had to tweet about it. The record is entirely produced by Kanye West, which may rub you the wrong way; however, this side of the studio booth may be better place for him at this point, and he entirely leaves the verses to King Push.

The record is a crisp 21 minutes long, but fire from start to finish.

This is the album we’ve been waiting for since the 2015 teaser Darkest Before Dawn. Show at 9 p.m. Tickets are $30. Echostage: 2135 Queens Chapel Rd. NE, DC; www.echostage.com

Shy Glizzy Southeast DC’s own Shy Glizzy is coming to the Fillmore to remind y’all that the Young Jefe still runs things. His summer single “Do You Understand?”

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featuring Gunna and Tory Lanez premiered last month, and it’s one of the smoother beats he’s taken to rapping over, similar to the track “Dope Boy Magic” from 2017 release Quiet Storm.

He may be slowing down the tempo of his music, but he’s keeping high momentum with constant releases, and I’m anxiously waiting to see what’s next for him. Doors at 7 p.m.

Tickets $30-$100. Fillmore Silver Spring: 8656 Colesville Rd. Silver Spring, MD; www.fillmoresilverspring.com

Steve Bug Steve Bug has been on the scene since 1991. That’s before I was even born, and yet his grooves have yet to grow tiresome. Born Stefan Brugesch in Germany, he’s become known over his career as the “Gentleman of Techno” for his professionalism, dependability and consistent sets. His body of work continues to strengthen with 2018’s Paradise Sold, a collaboration with Langenberg, another guru of the German deep house scene. Doors at 8 p.m. Tickets start at $10. Flash: 645 Florida Ave. NW, DC; www.flashdc.com

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SATURDAY, JULY 7

Airøspace Airøspace, the Southeast DC raised MC, is one we’ve been waiting for– at least those of us spending too much time listening to lo-fi beat tapes, as the instrumental tapes tend to grow stale quite quickly though, but he gives them the breath they need. Not all his tracks are lo-fi, though. On his latest release Hitagi, Vol. 3.1, you can find tracks that cull together a range of influences from trap to OSTs. Doors at 7:30 p.m.

Tickets $10. Velvet Lounge: 915 U St. NW, DC; www.velvetloungedc.com

Honey DC rock trio Honey has a sound that’s much fuller than their lineup of guitar, drums and bass alone might lead you to think. I got to play with them once and what I realized is they are perfectly balanced; none of the voices are competing with one another. The chorus heavy guitar gives a real sense

of depth, allowing the melodies in both the bass and vocals to stand out and the drums fill in the space between. From that show at Looking Glass Lounge to their EP release, they’ve come a long way in a short while.

Doors at 8:30 p.m. Tickets are $8.

DC9: 1940 9th St. NW, DC; www.dc9.club

SUNDAY, JULY 8

The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill 20th Anniversary Tour For fans of hip hop and neosoul, Lauryn Hill is a household name, along with Erykah Badu and D’Angelo. Hill’s debut record The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill propelled her to international stardom in a way no one could have predicted.

Twenty years later, Hill is touring the record most responsible for her enduring legacy once again.

Her live shows have been said to lack the swagger you hear on the record, but hopefully the Hill from the studio will show up for this one. Doors at 6 p.m. Tickets start at $20. Jiffy Lube Live: 7800 Cellar Door Rd. Bristow, VA; www.livenation.com

WEDNESDAY JULY 11

Rodriguez Jr. Rodriguez Jr. is the latest project from south of France native Olivier Mateu. Previously he’s made music with the Youngsters, but Rodriguez Jr. seems to be the best iteration of his production yet. He makes dance music informed by both vintage synthesizers and avant-garde western art music, from Satie to Stockhausen.

The latter influences are not clear, given how danceable the music is. Maybe they’re related in an emotional sense, but I find Rodriguez Jr. as more of a cinema-informed electronic musician. Doors at 4 p.m. Tickets $8. Flash: 645 Florida Ave. NW, DC; www.flashdc.com

Photos: Shantel Mitchell Breen

MONDAY, JULY 9

DC JazzFest 2018 at The Wharf hosted over 20 acts including Hamilton star Leslie Odom Jr. at The Anthem and other talented jazz musicians on District Pier and more free stages all weekend.

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The Octopus Project The Octopus Project, if you couldn’t tell from the name, are an incredibly hipster group, as hipster as the Wes Anderson movies their music videos feel inspired by. That said, I’m excited for these psychedelic rockers to come through DC. From Austin, Texas, they describe themselves as indietronica for the number of synthesizers they use and their role in shaping the sound – though it’s a label which only becomes apparent after you hear it spoken. Doors at 7 p.m.

Tickets $13. Union Stage: 740 Water St. SW, DC; www.unionstage.com

Dent May The “softest boy in Mississippi” is bringing “Across the Multiverse” to our neck of the woods this month on his tour supported by singer, guitarist Shannon Lay. This is his first release since making the move to Los Angeles, and for the label Carpark Records; he was previously signed to Animal Collective’s Paw Tracks label for his debut album in 2009. Across the Multiverse provides some chill, beachy summer vibes and May knows it. He even added some beer cozies and SPF 15 ChapStick to his merch offerings to emphasize the feeling, or perhaps as a nod to his own habit of applying lip balm every five minutes. Upon first listen to his newest album, this multi-instrumentalist, producer and self-described hotel bar lounge singer, gives me Elton John vibes with leading track “Hello Cruel World,” though his haircut and specs may have solidified that comparison a little more than I’d like to admit. Nevertheless, it’ll be a great show. 8 p.m. Tickets $12.

Jammin Java: 227 Maple Ave. Vienna, VA; www.jamminjava.com

SATURDAY JULY 14

Now, Now After a few years of selfdiscovery and a battle with writer’s block, KC Dalager and Brad Hale (a.k.a. Now, Now) are back with their most heartfelt and personal album yet. Saved is the follow up to the almost five-year radio silence after Threads, a record that earned

summer concert series

2018 SCHEDULE

thursday nights july 12 - aug. 23 7-9pm JULY 12 NELLY’S ECHO BAND JULY 19 MATT HUTCHISON DUO JULY 26 MARCELLA DUO AUGust 2 THE ROCKETS AUGust 9 capital sound + Brigadier brass from the 257th army band AUGust 16 KRISTEN AND THE NOISE AUGust 23 “The President’s Own” United States Marine Band, Marine Latin Ensemble Concert

them a coveted slot performing on Late Night with Jimmy Fallon in 2012. I’m going to be completely transparent here and say I assumed this band had broken up before hearing of this show, but I’m glad to hear the duo’s new music. “SGL” and “Yours” are the standout tracks from the album, but “Know Me” depicts the evolution of the band’s sound, while hearkening back to the hollow production and airy vocals that made their first impression on me on the Neighbors EP. Doors at 7 p.m.

Tickets $15. Songbyrd Record Cafe and Music House: 2475 18th St. NW, DC; www.songbyrddc.com

Photos: Mike Kim

SUNDAY, JULY 15

Enjoy live music in Mount Vernon Triangle on select Thursday nights with great tunes, cornhole and treats from local vendors such as Tropical Smoothie.

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Halsey You know her, you love her and you probably hear her singing whenever you enter a store geared to people under 30 or turn on the radio. Halsey is coming to Wolf Trap on the North American leg of her worldwide tour for her 2017 release “hopeless fountain kingdom,” which reached #1 on the Billboard 200 this time last year. Jessie Reyez is joining her on a majority of the U.S. dates, which makes a lot of sense because they both have a similar rawness to their lyrics, and feature a comparable vocal tone, despite being categorized as pop music artists. I’m looking forward to seeing what other surprises Halsey has in store for us, too. 8 p.m. Tickets $40-$80.

Filene Center at Wolf Trap: 1645 Trap Rd. Vienna, VA; www.wolftrap.org

Outer Spaces Balitmore-based Outer Spaces may be the headliner here, but this show includes a couple different acts, including DC’s Bacchae and Los Angeles-based Goon. Look for the post-punk band about as wild the revelry their name, ahem Bacchae, suggests. Goon’s provides a more downtempo way to follow up, but their songs are lush, even if not so Dionysian.

Outer Spaces are more straight forward indie pop, but don’t let that be a deterrence; they’re the reason to be there. 9 p.m. Tickets $12. Comet Ping Pong: 5037 Connecticut Ave. NW, DC; www.cometpingpong.com

Wild Moccasins Could you start a band with the person you love? Could you be in a relationship with them for a decade all while keeping the band together? Could you end that relationship amicably and remain bandmates that still cowrite songs that may or may not be about each other and/or your potential new flames, and then go on tour together? Zahira Gutierrez and Cody Swann could, in fact that’s exactly the basis of their new release Look Together that debuted on June 29. Just the backstory alone made me give them a listen, but their glamorous, catchy, synthfilled pop kept me around.

Doors at 7:30 p.m. Tickets $15.

Black Cat: 1811 14th St. NW, DC; www.blackcatdc.com

MONDAY, JULY 16

TUESDAY, JULY 19

WEDNESDAY, JULY 18

Jake Clemons Saxophone player Jake Clemons comes to DC not too long after finishing up a tour with Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band. That’s right, Jake Clemons is none other than the nephew of the Big Man, Clarence Clemons, and he’s been performing in his stead since 2012, even playing his “Jungleland” solo. But the younger Clemons has his own music as well and released a solo record in 2017 titled Fear & Love. Doors at 6:30 p.m. Tickets $20. Union Stage: 740 Water St. SW, DC; www.unionstage.com

Mourn Three things come across in Mourn’s music videos: they’re very young, they’re very punk and they’re unabashedly Spanish. The quartet comes from Barcelona. In fact, they recently released a song “Barcelona City Tour,” one of the three singles released in anticipation of their latest record, Sorpresa Familia. From the music videos to the singles, you can tell the quartet finally has a bit of cash flow, and with that you can feel they’ve really come into their own. Doors at 7:30 p.m. Tickets $12. DC9: 1940 9th St. NW, DC; www.dc9.club

Photos: Devin Overbey

SATURDAY JULY 21

The Fridays at Fort Totten summer concert series kicked off with JWX: The Jarreau Williams Xperience. Every Friday night, enjoy food trucks and great live music outside The Modern at Art Place.

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Slum Village If you’re surprised about this show, don’t worry, I was too. I had no idea Slum Village was still slumming. The group, now comprised of Young RJ and T3 are touring their 2018 release The Lost Scrolls, which contains previously unreleased “relics” from the twenty-year-old classic Fantastic Vol. 2. Of course, Young RJ was not part of the crew back then; however, T3 was, and Young RJ was mentored by Slum Village original J Dilla. Doors at 7 p.m. Tickets $22. Songbyrd Record Cafe and Music House: 2475 18th St. NW, DC; www.songbyrddc.com

Deafheaven This California-based sometimes duo, other times full band, makes a beautiful marriage of metal and shoegaze. The band has been camped out in Oakland recording their highly anticipated fourth studio album, Ordinary Corrupt Human Love.

Their live shows are known for being so intense, they’ve inspired fans to leap onstage and lick frontman George Clarke’s shoes, so if that’s something you might be into here’s your chance to make it happen. Doors at 8 p.m. Tickets $20. 9:30 Club: 815 V St. NW, DC; www.930.com

SUNDAY JULY 22

DC101 Kerfuffle: Fall Out Boy, Rise Against, Awolnation, AJR, Robert DeLong, Mt. Joy, L.I.F.T. DC101’s annual Kerfuffle returns with another stacked lineup.

With legends like Fall Out Boy (who recently joined us here in DC to celebrate the Caps during the playoffs) and Rise Against, to the next great voices in alt-rock like AJR and Mt. Joy, there’s something for all music lovers at this all-day affair. Doors at 12:30 p.m., show begins 1:30 p.m.

Tickets $55-$95. Merriweather Post Pavilion: 10475 Little Patuxent Pkwy. Columbia, MD; www.merriweathermusic.com

lyrics may be “put me on a pedestal and I’ll only disappoint you,” we’re sure you won’t be disappointed by Australian singer-songwriter Courtney Barnett live. She returns in support of her incredible sophomore album Tell Me How You Really Feel. While her collaborative album Lotta Sea Lice with fellow folk rocker Kurt Vile brought her to the District in 2017, we’re excited to see Barnett’s solo guitar slaying and acerbic lyrics when she headlines The Anthem solo.

Joined by Julien Baker and Vagabon, don’t miss out on this night of incredible talent. Doors at 6:30 p.m., show at 8 p.m.

Tickets $40-$60. The Anthem: 901 Wharf St. SW, DC; www.theanthemdc.com

WEDNESDAY JULY 25

Old Town Herndon, 777 Lynn Street (behind the Herndon Municipal Center)

July Echo & the Bunnymen and Violent Femmes Two iconic 80s acts join forces on the same bill for one retro night. What better way to cure your mid-week blues than by trekking to The Anthem on a Wednesday to sing along to classics like “The Killing Moon” and “Blister in the Sun”? Doors at 6:30 p.m., show at 8 p.m. Tickets $55-$75. The Anthem: 901 Wharf St. SW, DC; www.theanthemdc.com

THURSDAY JULY 26

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Food, Beer & Wine Available

13 20 27

August 103 17 24

Shane Gamble Band + Scott Kurt & Memphis 59 (country) Kristen & the Noise (Dewey Beach party band) Herr Metal (’80s hair metal) + Dr FU JunkFood The Reflex (’80s) Almost Journey (Journey tribute band) + South Bay Screaming Monkeys Social Call (guitar rock)

Corporate Sponsors United Bank PaloAlto Worldgate Centre HRI Associates/Erie Insurance Virginia Eagle Distributing Bud Light Cisco Brewers Nantucket Domino’s Egg Karne Jimmy’s Old Town Tavern Tur Cuisine Town of Herndon Herndon Chamber of Commerce Gold Sponsors MainStreet Bank Mindy Thunman (RE/MAX Living) Tim Nachazel/Investin D Banzon Design Mile 20 at the Breeze Party DC Events Pipe Hitters Union Queenb Creative

TUESDAY JULY 24

Courtney Barnett While one of her most biting

FREE Outdoor Concert Series Live Bands Every Friday!

6:30 - 10:30 pm

MONDAY, JULY 23

Del Florida Del Florida, so far as I can tell, has almost little or nothing to do with Florida, and that’s ok. The half-neo soul, halfdream pop act was formed in Liverpool, and is now based in DC. The group is carried by the powerful pipes of lead vocalist Leela Dawson and the funky rhythm guitar. DC based Bottled Up will open for the group.

Doors at 7:30 p.m. Tickets $10.

Velvet Lounge: 915 U St. NW, DC; www.velvetloungedc.com

presents

Shannon & the Clams Cal Arts student turned bass guitarist Shannon Shaw and her band are bringing their 60s inspired psychedelic pop to DC for the release of their fifth album Onion, supported

Silver Sponsors Arts Herndon Canine Carousel Egan, Berger & Weiner, LLC Erie Insurance – Pugh Agency Griffin-Owens Insurance Group Winmar Construction Bronze Sponsors Adams-Green Funeral Home All-American Landscaping Dr. Finley’s Family Eyecare Flynn Realty Associates Fulton Bank Herndon Dairy Queen Linda Sells Herndon (Pearson Smith Realty) Meadows Farms Nurseries Mid-Atlantic Power Northwood Construction Outback Steakhouse/Herndon Richey Property Management Select Wines Stitely & Karstetter, CPAs Tri-Tek Engineering

For more information, visit www.HerndonRocks.com @herndonrocks

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by Big Huge and Australian experimental pop band Gauche.

Of the title track and album name, Shaw says, “I had this epiphany that was likening an onion to being human and how you’re nothing without layers of experience. Each time you have an experience it creates another layer in the onion […] Each song on this album is about problemsolving and having realizations about yourself.” 7 p.m. Tickets $15. U Street Music Hall: 1115 U St. NW, DC; www.ustreetmusichall.com

punk element. At the same they’re singing about having “maggots in your eyes.”

I never thought I would be lulled into singing those words.

The show also features Positive No and Warm Sun. Doors at 10 p.m. Tickets $12. Comet Ping Pong: 5037 Connecticut Ave. NW, DC; www.cometpingpong. com

SATURDAY JULY 28

FRIDAY, JULY 27

Frass Green The bio for Frass Green on Spotify simply reads “joe tyler matt antonio,” which is about as opaque as their music or their artwork. But this lo-fi dream pop act is DC based and quite young. Joe Antoshak is the lead songwriter and began the project in his garage, the quality of which still seems to come through in the music. Be sure to check out their garage rockabilly tunes as they climb the ladder of DC venues. Doors at 7 p.m. Tickets $13. Rock & Roll Hotel: 1353 H St. NE, DC; www.rockandrollhoteldc.com

Glue Factory What I like about the lead single off DC band Glue Factory’s debut record S/T is the contrast between what’s being said and what you’re hearing. First there’s the post-punk verse, which feels good, even if it feels familiar, but then it goes into a similarly familiar chorus. It’s more melodic and more pop, but still has the feel-it-in-your-bones

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Lightmare has had a quick ascendancy on the DC scene.

The six-person, soul-punk arrangement will ask if you’ve ever been in love and if you wonder where the wild things are, and then prompt you to look for their debut record soon thereafter. The show also features the Prabir Trio and Wooden/Apple/Heart. The Richmond based trio writes psych-rock rooted in the Beatles “drenched in enough Tequila to make it slouch,” while Wooden/ Apple/Heart is another DC band with an innovative take on folk.

Doors at 7 p.m. Tickets $10.

DC9: 1940 9th St. NW, DC; www.dc9.club

David Byrne If you missed the Talking Heads frontman at his sold-out show at The Anthem in May, fear not!

The icon is back and not to be missed. I was wildly lucky to catch him on the first run, and it was nothing short of magical.

Byrne achieved setlist nirvana, with a healthy combination of solo songs, Talking Heads classics and more from his ever-growing catalogue. If you’re still not convinced, every ticket purchased online for David Byrne includes a CD of the new album American Utopia.

You’ll receive instructions via email on how to redeem your album shortly after ticket purchase. Plus, he’s supported

by Benjamin Clementine, who just happens to have the voice of an angel. Doors at 6:30 p.m., show at 8 p.m. Tickets $60-$130.

Merriweather Post Pavilion: 10475 Little Patuxent Pkwy.

Columbia, MD; www.merriweathermusic.com

Warped Tour I feel old as hell writing about the absolute last Warped Tour in history. I never got to experience the magic of Warped when I was a teenager and then it would’ve mattered more to me, but if this particular music scene was ever important to you, you should come out for this bittersweet last hurrah.

Close the book on your teen angst the right way with bands like Simple Plan, 30H!3, The Maine, Mayday Parade, Four Year Strong and August Burns Red with many, many more. Doors at 11 a.m. Tickets $39-$55. Merriweather Post Pavilion: 10475 Little Patuxent Pkwy. Columbia, MD; www.merriweathermusic.com

SUNDAY JULY 29

WEDNESDAY AUGUST 1

Lightmare From their first show at Looking Glass Lounge (with the aforementioned Honey),

Rico Nasty One of the most exciting new rappers to rise out of the DMV is none other than Rico Nasty.

On Tap | JULY 2018 | www.ontaponline.com

She’s a versatile artist with a killer fashion sense and several aliases who pioneered her own sound called Sugar Trap, which is sweet as pie and tough as nails at the same time. She takes inspiration for her music from many genres, citing Slipknot as one of her influences, and using piano samplings that eerily resemble Vanessa Carlton’s iconic “1000 miles” in one of her older tracks “Brandon.” Her show at the Fillmore is one of the first few on her “Nasty” tour, and this album marks her first release after signing with Atlantic last month. This is a can’t miss show, so come out and see her live because I already know it’s gonna be “Poppin.” Doors at 7 p.m. Tickets $20-$50. Fillmore Silver Spring: 8656 Colesville Rd. Silver Spring, MD; www.fillmoresilverspring.com

THURSDAY AUGUST 2

Father John Misty For those not familiar with his career, Josh Tillman went from unassuming Fleet Foxes drummer to sweet and understated solo artist before exiting whatever weird cocoon he had to live in to become his alter ego Father John Misty. Say what you will about his general attitude and reputation for making headlines throughout the blogosphere for his caustic comments – the man can write a damn good song. His most recent album God’s Favorite Customer sees him breaking character and getting a bit more personal. We’re still not entirely sure what to expect from this show, other than the excitement of knowing anything’s possible with this enigmatic and abrasive artist. Doors at 6:30 p.m., show begins at 8 p.m. Tickets $45-$55.

The Anthem: 901 Wharf St. SW, DC; www.theanthemdc.com

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