SEPTEMBER 2010
the the
fi ve best drinks in Orlando to try this month! the local cool
new bars, old festivals, bad fashion
An Orlando Weekly Publication
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I was on MY G ” a stool angled N I T R toward my friend, talking UI GE IRC about how my first Wild Blue beer tasted G I C awesome and how disgusting drinking the TR TE A second one was, especially after downing two “H
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t turns out that, according to a study done at the University College London’s laboratory of neurobiology, people have what scientists call a “hate circuit” in their brains. During the study, 17 volunteers underwent brain scans while looking at photos of people they hated, in addition to photos of friends and loved ones. Seeing a photo of a hated person triggered activity in distinct areas of the brain – areas that generate aggressive behavior. Want to beat the shit out of people constantly when you’re downtown? Blame it on your “hate circuit.” With that in mind, I set out Friday night to find out what, exactly, is responsible for triggering my hate circuit so effectively. I seem to hate anything I lay my eyes on these days. Is it my fault I happen to hate a lot of things? Or do I just live in a city in which things to hate are gathered in large numbers? With friends in tote, we hit Stardust Lounge, a cute basement bar that makes me wonder why the rest of us can’t have fucking basements in Orlando. Upon entering this adorable retro establishment that resembles a lounge from the 1950s, my hate circuit immediately kicked in. Why the hell would you take something so Rat Pack-inspired and stick Sam, AKA DJ Cru Jones, in it to spin top 40 and hip-hop? Why? because Friday nights are for assholes. Go to Stardust Lounge during the week and you’ll find they have appropriately themed nights suited to the establishment (their Burlesque Peep Show is pretty rad). Sit at any of your favorite bars on a Monday or Tuesday and you might actually meet someone interesting and worth talking to. But go anywhere on a Friday night and you’ll find that your own friends are few and far between because your favorite mellow watering hole – in this case Stardust Lounge – has been turned into a Friday night frat-fest, overrun with the stragglers from a happy hour that finished earlier that evening.
shots of Cafe Patron (DO NOT DRINK THIS – it will make your breath smell like you chewed on turds), when I could just feel something annoying me. I turned my head, still in conversation, and there he was, doing absolutely nothing wrong – a simple-looking guy in a button-up shirt and khakis. He was looking straight ahead, meekly holding his money. He wasn’t drunk, he wasn’t interrupting our conversation. He was nothing, really. Just standing there. An inch away from my back. Staring. I looked to the left of me and saw a space at the bar. I looked around the corner and saw another space. But there he stood, directly behind me, quietly waiting for the bartender. Now, I know people who sit at bars hinder the bar service. But when it’s early and there are plenty of spaces to grab a drink, is it really necessary to stand directly behind someone sitting there? The bartender finally acknowledged Quiet Dude’s presence and he stiffly ordered his two drinks and handed the bartender his money over my head. “Sorry” he mumbled to me. Thinking the guy and I are together, the bartender stuck the two drinks in front of me. I politely tried to slide the drinks to the side, and I knocked them all over Quiet Dude’s hands, which were impatiently grabbing at them. “Sorry,” he mumbled again, as he walked away and took his seat at a table with his equally boring-asshit-looking girlfriend. I didn’t even know them and I hated them. Their level of dullness was unbelievable. The two of them, barely speaking, barely smiling, carefully sipping on their drinks. Why the hell do people like this even go out? The only time either of them showed an ounce of continues on page 6
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ON THE COVER VENUE: MONKEY BAR, WALL STREET PLAZA MODEL: BROOKE JOHNSON PHOTOGRAPHER: JESSE WALKER, WALKER 1812 PHOTOGRAPHY CREATIVE DIRECTOR: MEGHAN SCHALK
EDITOR: Meghan Schalk GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Karen Nieves Ramos PHOTOGRAPHERS: YourCityNow.com, SmileforCamera.com, Whats2Hot.com BUSINESS: Karen Waeiss, manager; Amanda Self, administrative assistant ADVERTISING COORDINATOR: Hollie Jirak ADVERTISING: Graham Jarrett, director; Elizabeth Deese, Mike Mundrick, Jonathan Risteen, Matthew Sousa, Shelly Vincent, Dan Winkler, account executives; PRODUCTION: Rick Andrews, manager; Sabrina Arbona, Graphic Designer, Carson Bailey; intern CIRCULATION: Pierre Rene, manager EXECUTIVE EDITOR: Erin Sullivan DESIGN CONSULTANT: Shan Stumpf PUBLISHER: Rick Schreiber NATIONAL ADVERTISING: Voice Media Group, (888) 278-9866 Š 2010 Orlando Weekly Inc., all rights reserved. Orlando Weekly Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary. Reproduction without permission is prohibited. DRINK is free of charge, one copy per reader. DRINK may be distributed only by its distributors. ORLANDO WEEKLY INC. 1505 E. Colonial Dr. Ste. 200, Orlando, FL 32803 (407) 377-0400; (407) 377-0415 classified; (407) 377-0420 fax; www.drinkorlando.com
September 2010
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personality was when the girl let out a giggle that instantly changed into a cough. It was so bad that I secretly hoped they really weren’t that mind-numbingly boring and that by night they got crazy with the ball-gags and strap-ons. As I snapped myself out of my strangersinvolved-in-S&M daydream, I noticed I was suddenly surrounded by a group of guys who finally had enough liquor in their system to stand on top of one seemingly alone female at the bar. I heard the roaring of laughter and after being bumped in the back about six times by an elbow, I stupidly set off their trap when I turned around to glare at them. Though my hate circuit was quickly triggered, I sadly didn’t tell them to fuck off. First, I was apologized to, then I was asked my name, my age, my occupation and every other lame run-of-the-mill Friday night icebreaker question someone with no game asks. The entire group closed in on me and everyone started questioning me at once until one of the guys began to “sympathize” with my situation. Trying to make me feel more “comfortable,” he explained that his friends were all drunk. He told them to leave me alone and asked if I’d like to do a shot. Now that I was in the
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company of the “trusted” one in the group, the surrounding process seemed to be complete. “Nope, I’m good,” I responded. “My breath kind of smells like turds. I’ll be right back.” Then I excused myself to the bathroom. So what did I conclude from my evening? Well, I noticed that my hate circuit is activated by just about anyone I come into contact with and while I am extremely negative, I’m good at keeping it under control so as to not ruin anyone’s night. This is good news, since my hate circuit was set off by everything that evening. Bad music, gross shots, boring couples, a random person trying to start up a conversation or even a friend with such an ear-piercing laugh it made me want to crack a bottle on the bar and stick it through her trachea. Now I know I won’t do it. I won’t go off in a crazed hate fueled fury and attack my friends and random strangers. Yay! Man, it’s a good thing I don’t have to work with humans and alcohol daily to make a living. Who knows what could eventually happen? Oh wait. Shit. meghan@drinkorlando.com
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CLUB NIGHTS ‘80s TO ‘00S Alternative music from the past three decades sets the stage for a dance party to please all ages and music lovers. Sip on the $2 vodka drink specials and dance to music spun by one of I-Bar’s longeststanding DJs, Smilin’ Dan, while surrounded by MTV videos from as far back as the time when MTV premiered videos worth watching. 10 PM, INDEPENDENT BAR, FREE 21+
SUNDAY
ARGYLE Taking place the last Sunday of every month, Argyle brings yet another dubstep-electro dance party to town, featuring resident DJ Bryzergold and DJ Queso on the tables. 10 PM, SUITE B, COVER VARIES
RED COCONUT HOSPITALITY NIGHT You won’t even feel like you’re in Orlando when you step into this hip, 1950s Vegas-Cuban-Tiki style venue, which includes three bars in which to sip your signature martini or a selection from the extensive wine list. Mingle and dance the night away while a DJ spins tunes in this premier night club and ultra-lounge. Free admission and drink specials all night for hospitality employees. 10 PM, RED COCONUT CLUB, UNIVERSAL STUDIOS CITYWALK, FREE
Hip-hop, soul, house and breaks with $5 martinis and $3 calls all night. 10 PM, THE PEACOCK ROOM, $5
SUPER SUNDAYS After 15 years in the industry, Firestone Live knows how to hold a dance night, and this 102 Jamz Official Ladies Night has been going strong for years. Enjoy a hip-hop dance party featuring DJ Nasty, Chino, D-Strong, Disco and Home Base DJs and off-thewall drink specials until the early morning. 10 PM, FIRESTONE LIVE, FREE (UNTIL MIDNIGHT), $10-$20
T- DANCE
JUNGLE SUNDAYS This one may be just for the men, if you know what I mean. The banana boys are sexy and shirtless as they perform live throughout the night. Tunes are spun by DJ JB, and the specials are pretty fantastic and include complimentary hors d’oeuvres, $2.50 domestic beer, $3.50 Jungle martinis. 5 PM, MONKEY BAR, WALL STREET, FREE
SOULFUL SUNDAYZ
Suite B Argyle 10 pm, cover varies
There’s not much the Parliament House doesn’t offer on its oversized property designed for excess. Especially on Sunday nights, where you can get a little bit of everything – DJ Brianna Lee on the dance floor, $2.50 schnapps, domestic beer and $3.50 select calls until 9 pm, shows at 7 pm and 10 pm and free buffet at 8. Did we leave anything out? Didn’t think so. 3:30 PM-3 AM, PARLIAMENT HOUSE, FREE
Want to add something to the calendar? E-mail us at calendar@drinkorlando.com Listed time reflects start time of drinking event. Bar hours and cover charge prior to that time may vary.
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TUESDAY
MONDAY
CLUB NIGHTS CRUSH
HOSPITALITY BLUE
Years ago Pauly Crush brought Orlando the best of electro music and world famous DJs that created a night to rival those in big cities like Miami and L.A. To this day his indie dance party located inside the gritty walls of Back Booth is easily one of Orlando’s most successful nights. Free Keg of PBR and getting on the guest list for free admission (visit www.crushorlando. com for details) make this night affordable for even the shallowest pockets. 10 PM, BACK BOOTH, $3-$5 OR FREE WITH GUESTLIST
Live bands, DJs and entertainment, hospitality drink specials. 4 PM, BLUE MARTINI, FREE
DJ SMILIN’ DAN
and iconic you probably wouldn’t mind if your parents hit the dance floor with you and enjoyed some of their own favorite hits from a time when they used to get down till the wee hours of the night. Beat the clock drink specials with wells starting at just $1. 10 PM, INDEPENDENT BAR, NO COVER BEFORE MIDNIGHT
Smilin Dan caters to the music snobs in the small confines of Crooked Bayou, playing everything from punk, post punk, country western, new wave, ‘90s alternative, indie rock, progressive rock, ‘60s and ‘70s R&B and garage/psych. It’s a night for a true music fan to hear an impressive set of tunes that wouldn’t usually be played in the clubs. 10 PM, CROOKED BAYOU, FREE
FAT TUESDAY Antigua is famous for its Friday night happy hours, and they don’t compromise any of their weeknight drink specials to make that happen. Live DJs on set and FREE drinks for the ladies until midnight, with $100 bottles of Ciroq Vodka in VIP. 9 PM, ANTIGUA, LADIES FREE
GRITS N GRAVY Dance to the best classic rock and soul at one of I-bar’s most enjoyable and successful club nights. It’s a night so entertaining
RED HOT MONDAY No cover and $1 drafts, $2 Long Islands, and $3 wells until 11 pm. 9 PM, THE PARLIAMENT HOUSE, FREE-$3
PHAT-N-JAZZY MUSIC AND ART Phat n’ Jazzy may be the founder of the funk in downtown nightlife. Once located on the rooftop of the beautiful Sky 60, Phat-n-Jazzy now brings its live jazz music and feel good vibes to The Social. 10 PM, THE SOCIAL, FREE
SKYY BLUE TUESDAYS Networking happy hour 4 pm-8 pm, live entertainment and DJs, Skyy Vodka and Herradura specials. 4 PM, BLUE MARTINI, FREE
TORQUE WITH MC COLLABORATOR, CIRCLE K A happy hour from 4-7 pm starts this evening. Then it’s taken over by Torque with MC Collaborator and Circle K, one of Orlando’s longest running weekly nights for drum and bass. Accompany the music with a food fix and receive dine-in only wings for 25 cents from 6-10 pm. 10 PM, CROOKED BAYOU, $5
TAKEOVR It’s not even a year old, but Smile for Camera’s Takeovr has already exploded onto the indie dance scene, creating a Roxy that welcomes the hipster crowd and makes for one of the best getsloppy-and-just-let-go dance parties Orlando has seen in a long time. DJs spin a mix of indie, electro and dance, and great drink specials “Takeovr” the bars, including (but not limited to) $1 wells and PBR until midnight. Get on the guest list at www.takeovr. com to get in to this weekly party for free. 10 PM, ROXY NIGHTCLUB, FREE-$12
UPSCALE 1ST TUESDAYS An elegant night of hip hop, reggae, R&B and reggaeton. This once-a-month party takes place the first Tuesday of every month, hosted by Ricky Padilla with music by DJ Chino, Nasty and Vos. Dress code is enforced. 10 PM, DRAGON ROOM, COVER VARIES
Want to add something to the calendar? E-mail us at calendar@drinkorlando.com Listed time reflects start time of drinking event. Bar hours and cover charge prior to that time may vary.
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CLUB NIGHTS
WEDNESDAY
DORM COLLEGE NIGHT Dance all night and enjoy drink specials galore at Orlando’s premier ultra-lounge gay bar. With rooms as different as night and day, from sexy dungeon-like surroundings to a lounge pulled straight off of a gorgeous South Beach nightclub, Pulse easily feels like three bars in one. 9 PM, PULSE, FREE-$5 $5
HANGOVR Hangovr is now the officiall after party of Smile For Camera’s Takovr (Roxy). In case you didn’t drink enough the night before, join your friends again at Crooked Bayou. Drink specials include $2 Bud Lights, $2 wells and $4 well doubles. Resident DJ Queso spins the music, with guest DJs added weekly. 10 PM, CROOKED BAYOU, FREE
LADIES NIGHT
Slide on your Christian Louboutins and dress to the nines for this
Lyrica recently opened its doors and breathed new life into the old Cairo location, and its nights are already in full swing. This ladies night doesn’t shy away from drink specials: free drinks for the gals from 10 pm-12 am, as well as free entry all night long. $3 you-call -its for everyone, all night long. 10 PM, LYRICA, DOWNTOWN , FREE FOR LADIES
'80S NIGHT
GIRLICIOUS
Russian Standard and Pinnacle vodka drink specials. 9 PM, THE GROOVE, UNIVERSAL STUDIOS CITYWALK, FREE UNTIL MIDNIGHT
Where the A-list of Orlando comes to see and be seen. From models to athletes, Backroom (situated behind Mako’s on Church Street) is a hidden gem. Inside you’ll find one of our city’s most famous DJs, DJ Chino, who spins music all night long. Girlicious is yet another night for the ladies to leave their wallets at home, offering free martinis (till 12). It also delivers a great special for the guys, offering them $5 drinks until midnight as well. 10 PM, BACKROOM, CHURCH STREET, COVER VARIES
I LOVE WEDNESDAYS
THURSDAY
elegant A-list party. This beautiful oak-carved bar and lounge is no stranger to drop-ins from Orlando Magic players and world famous R&B musicians, so you’ll want to look and feel your best when you hob-nob with the famous who are passing through for the night. Music by DJ Chino, VOS and DJ Ricon. Open bar for the ladies and $3 cocktails for the men until 12 am. Fashionable attire is REQUIRED. 9 PM, 23, CHURCH STREET, COVER
FIVE YEAR FLASHBACK A dance party to get down to all the hits, with music ranging from the Strokes, Modest Mouse, and Bloc Party to M.I.A before she started making eerie and uninteresting political movies she called music videos. DJ Smilin Dan keeps the crowd going with a huge mix of hits from 2004 and before, back when indie music was in its prime. Free PBR until the keg floats and $2 Sweet Tea vodka and Yuengling until midnight. 10 PM, INDEPENDENT BAR, $5
LADIES LOVE IT With its gorgeous red leather couches and warm lighting, this is by far a downtown favorite for the ladies (and the men interested in
NECROPOLIS I-bar hosts one of Orlando’s only nights that embraces the goth crowd on a weekly basis. A mix of industrial New Wave, Goth, EMM and alternative ‘80s music welcomes the platform black boots, untraditional locks and a fashion sense that’s not for everyone. Even those who don’t have the guts to step outside the box society deems to be “normal” enjoy bearing witness to the spectacle. 10 PM, INDEPENDENT BAR, $5
WEDNESDAY NIGHT FUSION With a cozy tavern feeling inside and open-air seating on the patio outside, Ember is a gorgeous upscale bar that removes you from the tired college bar nights and transports you to a Mediterranean escape with a more cultured drinking crowd. Experience a fusion of recorded tracks by live musicians along with 2-4-1 drinks all night, every Wednesday night. 10 PM, EMBER, FREE
the ladies). Vintage Lounge offers free martinis not just until 11 or 12, but ALL NIGHT for the gals. 5 PM, VINTAGE LOUNGE, FREE
LADIES NIGHT Free admission and free drinks till midnight for women. 9 PM, LATIN QUARTER, UNIVERSAL STUDIOS CITYWALK, FREE FOR LADIES
LADIES NIGHT Enjoy the warm Florida weather on the rooftop of Sky 60 for this ladies night, with music by DJ Cliff T and Dominick Morrison and half off all drinks for the ladies, $2.50 wells and domestics for the men. 21+ only. 10 PM, SKY 60, FREE
Want to add something to the calendar? E-mail us at calendar@drinkorlando.com Listed time reflects start time of drinking event. Bar hours and cover charge prior to that time may vary.
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THURSDAY (CONT) FRIDAY
LATIN NIGHT
CLUB NIGHTS
No cover until 11 pm. From 9 pmmidnight, purchase $2 tequila shots, $2.50 wells, and $3 Corona. DJ Dido 10 pm-2 am. Dance to salsa, merengue, bachata and reggaeton all night. 9 PM, PARLIAMENT HOUSE, FREE-$5
NOCHES AZUL Upscale Latin dance night featuring live salsa-merengue bands, DJs and performers. 4 PM, BLUE MARTINI, $5-$10
House, funk, punk, and hip-hop on the patio. 9 PM, REVOLUTION, FREE-$8
P.U.R.E. THURSDAY LADIES NIGHT P.U.R.E. stands for Pleasing, Unadulterated, Ravishing, Enamored. The decor is swanky and the clientele is fashionable and voguish clientele. The all-new
No cover before midnight with college or theme park ID, Free well drinks from 11 pm-11:30 pm, $3 Long Islands, $5 Three Olive Monster bombs and $3 Bud and Bud Light with a show at midnight hosted by Angelica Sanchez and DJ Joanie spinning the hottest in house, anthems and more inside, DJ Irene Pardo spinning Miami
Bliss raises the bar for ultralounges in Orlando and caters to some of the prettiest faces in town on Thursdays for their weekly ladies night where the girls get in free and enjoy $2 domestics and $3 you-call-it wells. 10 PM, BLISS PREMIERE ULTRA LOUNGE, FREE-$5
AMBIANCE FRIDAY
FAME FRIDAY
DJ DIGITAL Voted best club DJ in the 2010 Best Of Orlando Weekly awards, DJ Digital brings you a night of old school, mashups, classics, freestyle and hip-hop. 10 PM, SLINGAPOURS, WALL STREET, COVERS VARY
This hip-hop dance club has one of the best Thursday night specials in town for those who are thirsty and ready to party. A pay-at-thedoor-and-pay-no-more dance party that gets you a fantastic allyou-can-drink PREMIUM bar after you pay the entrance fee. Only $13 for the ladies and $15 for the men. Just remember, the dress code is strictly enforced and saggy pants are a huge no-no on this night. 10 PM, TABU, $13-$15
THIRSTY THURSDAY
PLEDGE COLLEGE NIGHT
This new restaurant in the Mall of Millenia makes way for a classy crowd, with a top-shelf selection of drinks and a fitting slogan for this particular night: “Party Like An Adult.” At Ambiance Friday, a party put on by local promoter Chris Biggins, guest DJs and resident DJ Firas Laurent spin Top 40 hits, house and remixes. Make your way to the bar and you’ll find a select list of $5 martinis for the ladies . 9 PM, CRAVE RESTAURANT AND BAR, 21+ FREE
TABU THURSDAYS
Hit the red carpet and party with Orlando’s elite every Friday night at Dragon Room for DJ Chino’s Fame Friday. Ladies enjoy free drinks before 12 and with the local paparazzi in house, fashionable attire is once again a must at this ultra-lounge. 9 PM, DRAGON ROOM, CHURCH STREET, PRICES VARY
FREE FRIDAYS First Drink is on the Barn! Doors open at 5 pm with 2-4-1 drink specials from 9 pm -12 am. Ready for more free? Try a FREE massage therapist, FREE mechanical bull riding, FREE shots at midnight, FREE Texas Hold’em, FREE couples dance lessons, FREE line dancing lessons, FREE Karaoke, and FREE pool and darts! 5 PM, THE BARN, SANFORD, PRICES AND DRINK SPECIALS SUBJECT TO CHANGE FOR CONCERTS
This country bar’s college night has it all. From Mechanical Bull Riding, and line dancing, to a bikini contest and karaoke. $10 for the ladies and $12 for the men gets you free wells, drafts and domestic longnecks from 8 pm -12 am! 7 PM, THE BARN, SANFORD; PRICES AND DRINK SPECIALS SUBJECT TO CHANGE FOR CONCERTS
KITTYBAT @ CLEO'S LOUNGE Voted one of the best DJs in Orlando, Kittybat spins classic hip-hop, funk and beats during this no cover, no V.I.P, no frills kind of night. Just stiff drinks and good music. 10 PM, CLEO’S LOUNGE, FREE
FEEL IT FRIDAYS World-class sound and lighting wrapped in a two-story rustic warehouse setting. Progressive house, tribal and power vocals all night. Though brand-spanking new to the scene, Feel It Fridays has quickly become one of the busiest club nights downtown. 10 PM, LYRICA (OLD CAIRO), FREE-$10
Want to add something to the calendar? E-mail us at calendar@drinkorlando.com Listed time reflects start time of drinking event. Bar hours and cover charge prior to that time may vary.
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CLUB NIGHTS
SATURDAY
COLLEGE NIGHT One of the Knight Library’s best nights for drink deals. Every Saturday at College Night get twofor-one everything, $4 Coors and Miller pitchers, $5 rum buckets – and a sexy cage-girl contest. The DJs spin mash-ups, Top 40 and dance all night long, and the cover you pay to get into Knight Library also gets you free entrance into its classier sister bar Dungeon Lounge located right next door. 9 PM, KNIGHT LIBRARY, UCF, COVER VARIES
LADIES NIGHT AT THE BARN Free admission for all the ladies at the Barn. $7 cover for men and 2-4-1 drinks for everyone from 9 pm -12 am! Dance to the music of DJ TJ Roberts or enjoy Karaoke with friends with Rockin Rhonda in the sports bar. 7 PM, THE BARN, SANFORD, PRICES AND DRINK SPECIALS SUBJECT TO CHANGE FOR CONCERTS
MIDNIGHT MASS If you’re a lover of music, Midnight Mass is everything you could wish for. After presenting a few local or national acts, Backbooth continues the night with Midnight Mass at 12 am, as DJ Adam Wright creates a mix of classic soul, Top 40, indie and electro dance music. The clientele is of the younger, hipper variety, but this isn’t a place that will discriminate against you if you’re not in line with the rest of the kids’ fashion or age. If you come to dance, and that is all, Midnight Mass is perfect for that. Oh and the keg is freee until it floats. 12 AM, BACK BOOTH, FREE-$4 $4
with the largest rum variety in Wall Street history. 5-8 PM, WALL ST. PLAZA, $20, PURCHASE TICKETS ONLINE AT WWW.WALLSTPLAZA.NET
RUMOR SATURDAYS Decorated with a bit of Asian sophistication using shoji screens and a beautiful illuminated blue bar, Dragon Room is one of Central Florida’s premier ultra lounges and delivers yet another gorgeous venue you wouldn’t expect to find next to college bars Chillers and Makos. Rumor has it that Rumor Saturdays has an amazing drink special every week, and you’ll need to tune into Dragon Room’s Facebook and Twitter pages for the latest drink deal gossip. 9 PM, DRAGON ROOM, PRICE VARIES
SEQUIN SATURDAYS WITH THE BYRD Every third Saturday of the month, free beer and food with DJ Insa spinning hip hop, soul and funk. 6-10 PM, DECHOES, COLONIAL DRIVE STORE, FREE
SHIRTLESS CRUISING SATURDAY Guys without shirts get $1 domestic bottles and wells all night. Filthy! Savoy dancers and DJs commence at 6 pm. 6 PM, SAVOY ORLANDO, FREE
SWIRL DJ Richie Rich mixes club, urban beats and classic hip-hop. $3 U-call-its (includes domestic and
RUMFEST On Saturday, September 18th, Wall Street Plaza, known for it’s wild street parties, brings you the 6th annual Rumfest - a crazy unlimited drinking dance party
Bliss Ultralounge Fist Pumpin' Night imported beer) and 2-4-1 shots. Free until 11 pm. Tabu, a hip-hop favorite, stands center stage next to the best of the bars on Orange Avenue. 10 PM, TABU, FREE-$20
ULTIMATE ‘80s Happy-hour lasting from 1 pm-8 pm, live bands 7 pm-midnight and DJs spinning ‘80s. 1 PM, BLUE MARTINI, $5-$10
WALL STREET BLOCK PARTY You know a street party is a success when it takes place every single weekend and still attracts a huge crowd every time. Wall Street’s Friday and Saturday street parties, which feature live DJs and entertainment, literally flood the streets with thousands of partying patrons. There’s no cover charge, and you can enjoy all eight Wall Street bars, as well as plenty of street bars set up for those who find it difficult to leave the entertainment on the main stage to go inside for a drink. 11 PM, WALL STREET PLAZA, FREE
Want to add something to the calendar? E-mail us at calendar@drinkorlando.com Listed time reflects start time of drinking event. Bar hours and cover charge prior to that time may vary.
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THE LOCAL COOL
FEATURE
THE LOCAL COOL ecause we here at Drink magazine are sure that we know what’s cool around town – and pretty sure most of you don’t – we’ve created a feature dedicated to telling you what’s cool and what’s not. You will have to trust our advice because you’re not cool enough to know any of this yourself. This month’s Local Cool will be measured using the following animal:
COOL
LAME
Mucho Tequila and Tacos More than 105 kinds of Tequila ... and counting. If that’s not a selling point for a Mexican bar, I have no idea what is. Then there’s the the free Jose Cuervo tequila shot that comes with every Corona you buy on Wednesdays. And the $2 ‘ritas all day on Mondays. And the two-for-one Cuervo ‘ritas on Thursdays. You know what? Screw the food (even though Mucho has $2 tacos on Tuesdays and some of the best chicken burritos in town) – who needs it, with so many great deals on booze? Mucho Tequila and Taco, housed in 101 Eola (across the street from the failures that were Beacon, iMansion and Fifi’s – so many fails), is a comfortable, casual and, most importantly, affordable drinking establishment that wasn’t created just to attract the “$30,000 millionaires,” as I like to call them, who populate the the Thornton Park area. It’s just a good place to do a couple of basic things: fill your stomach and get drunk ... on 105 fucking tequilas!
www.muchotequilaandtacos.com
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REALLY FUCKING COOL
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THE LOCAL COOL
Shipyard Brew Pub (Coming Soon) If there is one thing Orlando will always have in multitudes, it’s alcohol. Ourr art galleries die off, our museums fade, our Opera closes down, and veryy few people in this city are interested in investing the money it would take to breathe new life into any of them. But bars? Clubs? Everyone has money for that! Screw that culture-and-smartpeople shit. This is Orlando! In all seriousness, there are some people in this town who do alcohol right and whose endeavors you could easily see lasting longer then the next ultra-lounge that pops up in a UCF-area strip mall. For instance, the Shipyard Brew Pub. Shipyard’s brews have infiltrated all the decently stocked bars in the city, and the company has created relationships around town that go far beyond passing out company-logo necklaces and koozies to beer guzzlers. So it’s not a surprise – it’s more of an “about time” – that this Portland, Maine-based brewing company is setting up its own shop at 200 West Fairbanks Ave. in Winter Park. Shipyard Brew Pub is slated to open in October and will feature a 28-gallon brewing system, from which it’ll brew fresh beer on premises. In addition, Big Wheel Provisions Marketplace, an Orlando catering company that (like Shipyard) uses local and seasonal ingredients, will operate a marketplace on site. A perfect pairing for the city’s next perfect bar for all of us to get perfectly drunk in.
Add Shipyard Brew Pub Winter Park on Facebook or visit www.shipyard.com
Epcot Beer and Wine Festival So what if this only sounds like a good idea on paper? So what if, once you pay for admission, parking, and your first thimble-sized wine cup and bite-sized plate after waiting in a line of 40 people, you only have enough money left over to put gas in your car and get yourself back home? In theory, drinking around the world at Epcot during its food and wine festival is AWESOME. The amusement park’s tragically dated rides are AWESOME. Watching Ellen DeGeneres get attacked by Dinosaurs on the World of Energy ride was the stupidest Disney idea ever, but totally AWESOME. And Soarin – completely anti-climatic after a 90-minute wait, and the most boring ride on the earth – is still ... well, p pretty boring. As pricey as it is, every year we look forward to this food and wine festival that takes place at one of the best theme parks in Orlando (for the elderly), and I readily applaud anything that sucks so bad it’s awesome.
Starts October 1 and runs through November 14; visit http:// disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/epcot/special-events/epcotinternational-food-and-wine-festival for more information.
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THE LOCAL COOL
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Baby Grands (Coming Soon) Dueling piano bars were popular back when Billy Joel and Elton John would face off on the stage of Madison Square Garden together, thoroughly captivating thousands of fans with their overpriced but well-appreciated concerts. These days the best piano duel we could hope to see would be a Norah-Jones-and-Alicia-Keys-off, which would probably make the entire audience want to hang themselves. Baby Grands, rumored to be opening sometime this month (the website just says it’s “coming soon”) at 54 West Church St. upstairs in the 55 West courtyard, takes patrons back in time to revisit the bar-inspired piano battle. A time when the pianos were the weapons, the audience were the bullets and the venue was the battleground. The pianists at Baby Grands will take any audience request that guarantees a great party, and the spectator participation will make it the kind of place that can entertain any group, of any age, that wants to celebrate a special occasion. Bring on the boa-clad bride-to-be drinking from a 1998-inspired fishbowl beverage, ready to bang anyone who is not her fiance! Piano bars are back. www.babygrandsduelingpianos.com
Little Fish Huge Pond It may be located in downtown Sanford, but since it’s part of the greater Orlando area, and it delivers Drink magazines all the way out yonder, we’re including it here. Located on Sanford’s historic main drag, one block from Willow Tree (one of the best German restaurants in the area) this slightly shabby beer and wine bar can be summed up in one word – weird. Maybe I think that because there was a mannequin and detailed paintings of man-weenies in my face while I was peeing in the ridiculously decorated bathroom. Or maybe a better word to use would be eclectic (naked Ken and G.I. Joe dolls decorating a bar is eclectic, right?). Call it whatever you want, this is one of the few places left that cares more about the art, and less about the money. The bartenders are sarcastic but friendly, the mixmatched couches are worn but cozy and the place just feels like home the second you step inside. Beer is cheap, singers, poets, comedians and local and traveling bands take the stage weekly, and new artwork is displayed on the walls almost nightly. It’s an artist free-for-all. Anyone can participate. Everyone is accepted. What more could you ask for?
309 E 1st St., Sanford; www.littlefish-hugepond.com
Style Warping Style warping is the act of tapping into a time p period during which a fashion trend was at its worst, then bringing it to the present day and making it even worse than that. If that were even possible. Judging by this photo, it is.
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Also this month: Orlando Brewing’s Ocktoberfest Party, Orlando Brewing Company, Sept. 25 Rumfest, Wall Street Plaza, downtown, Sept. 18
9-10
September 2010
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BEER, WINE & THE CASUAL KIND
SUNDAY
BINGO AFTER DARK 10 pm, Wall Street, Waitiki, Free
BLUES AND BREWS BRUNCH $2 mimosas, live music and breakfast pies. 11 AM, MELLOW MUSHROOM, ALOMA AVE, FREE
DOWNTOWN POURHOUSE
BARTENDER TRIVIA 6 PM, COPPER ROCKET PUB, FREE
CLEAR PONG Beer pong with $100 prize every week. $6 Jack Daniels, $5 premiums, $4 Drinks, $3 Jeremiah Sweet Tea, $2 jello shots and $1 drinks for ladies from midnight until 2am.. 2 PM-2 AM, CENTRAL STATION ROCK BAR, FREE
$2 domestic drafts, $3 wells, and $4 calls from 10 am to 8 pm every day. $2 Van Gogh vodka cocktails for ladies from 8 pm to close every day! 10 AM, DOWNTOWN POURHOUSE, FREE
GIRLS NIGHT OUT
MIMOSA SUNDAYS
Guys drink $1 beers, 50 cent wings and 50 cent porkies. 7 PM, SMOKEY BONES, E. COLONIAL DRIVE, FREE
$4 Mimosas from 1-6 pm. 1 PM, THE IMPERIAL, ANTIQUE ROW, FREE
SUNDAY BRUNCH 10 AM-3 PM, LIAM FITZPATRICK, $12.95
SOUTHERN FRIED SUNDAY Enjoy live bands and cheap southern cookin’; 3rd Sunday of every month. 6 PM, COPPER ROCKET PUB, $5 COVER INCLUDES BBQ DINNER
SUBVERSIVE SUNDAYS Weekly menu and drink specials. Come early as they sell out fast. STARDUST VIDEO & COFFEE, 10 AM-3 PM, FREE
Select wines and food pairings. $20 per person, reservation only. 8-10 PM, TASTINGS WINE BAR, $20
GUYS NIGHT
LOW DOUGH MONDAYS $1 dollar off everything! $1 PBR and $2 domestics from 7 pm-11 pm. 7 PM, WILL’S PUB, FREE
AUDUBON PARK COMMUNITY MARKET Stock up on organic produce, freshly prepared foods, and handmade goods from local artists. 6 PM-10 PM, STARDUST VIDEO AND COFFEE, FREE
DIRTY BINGO
9 PM, STARDUST LOUNGE, FREE
HAMBINGO
6:30 PM, HAMBURGER MARY’S, FREE
PINT NIGHT Drink a pint, keep the glass! 5 PM, MELLOW MUSHROOM, E COLONIAL DRIVE, FREE
SHROOM TRIVIA
8:30 PM, MELLOW MUSHROOM, E COLONIAL DRIVE, FREE
TEXAS HOLD’EM
7 PM, PIPER’S, DOWNTOWN ORLANDO, FREE
TIED UP TUESDAYS “Wild night of leather.” $2 Bud and Bud Lights all night. Come in leather and get a $1 off of all other drinks. 5 PM-2 AM, STONEWALL BAR, FREE
MELLOW MUSHROOM TORN UP TUESDAYS .25 cent beers, from 9pm-11pm, HAPPY HOUR Monday throught Friday from 4-6 pm and 8 pm until close. Happy hour deals on wells, domestics and craft brews. 4 PM, MELLOW MUSHROOM, E COLONIAL AND WINTER PARK LOCATIONS, FREE
TUESDAY
2-4-TUESDAYS
MONDAY
5 PM, SENSO SUPPER CLUB, DOWNTOWN, FREE
2-4-1 Hurricanes, 2-4-1 domestic drafts and ½ off select appetizers. 4–10 PM, PAT O’BRIEN’S, UNIVERSAL STUDIOS CITYWALK, FREE
COMPLIMENTARY DINNER NIGHT Free dinner for ladies with reservation (minimum gratuity $6).
$3 jager shots and lemon drops all night . 9 PM, CENTRAL STATION ROCK BAR, FREE
LOCALS ONLY NEIGHBORHOOD APPRECIATION Kids 11 and under eat free with an adult; five-beer buckets of Presidente for $10 all day. 6 PM-8 PM, GRAFFITI JUNKTION, THORNTON PARK, FREE
TACO TUESDAY 2 for $1 tacos, $2 Coronas and Dos Equis, $3 Margs, $4 Cuervo. 2 PM, WALL STREET CANTINA, FREE CONTINUE ON PG. 26
Want to add something to the calendar? E-mail us at calendar@drinkorlando.com Listed time reflects start time of drinking event. Bar hours and cover charge prior to that time may vary.
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BEER, WINE & THE CASUAL KIND
TASTY TUESDAY Free beer and wine with entree. 6 PM, RELAX GRILL, FREE
TIN TUESDAY $1.50 tin cans all night. 7 PM, SPORTSTOWN, FREE
TWISTED TUESDAYS Hospitality night. Happy hour $3 you call it; $2 beer specials. 9 PM, LYRICA, SOUTH MAGNOLIA AVE., *SPECIALS AND TIMES SUBJECT TO CHANGE
WINE NOT WEDNESDAY First Wednesday of every month; acoustic music, free Wine and catering by Black Bean Deli. 6 PM-8 PM, COLLEGE PARK LOCATION ONLY, DECHOES RESALE, FREE
THURSDAY ART NIGHT
$1 DRINK NIGHT
Hosted by Tattooed Bill; Local artists, live painting and music; Presidente Special: 5 for $10 buckets Presidente and Presidente Light all day. 7 PM, GRAFFITI JUNKTION, THORNTON PARK, FREE
Chiller’s famous frozen drinks all night long for only $1. 9 PM, CHILLERS, FREE
BUCK WILD THURSDAYS
WEDNESDAY
CURTIS EARTH TRIVIA 7 PM-11PM, ONE EYED JACKS, FREE
DIME WINE WEDNESDAYS 10¢ a pour. Hosted by Chef Mark from Brick and Fire. Ladies night starts at 9pm, different vineyard featured each week. 6 PM, LYRICA, SOUTH MAGNOLIA AVE., *SPECIALS AND TIMES SUBJECT TO CHANGE
MANDADDY TRIVIA 9 PM, COPPER ROCKET PUB, $3
NICKEL BEER NIGHT
College Night; $1 Bud Products, $3 UV cocktails and 2-for-1 Jager Bombs. 8 PM, HOWL AT THE MOON, COVER STARTS AT 8 PM
LEGENDARY THURSDAYS Enjoy half off select appetizers with Heineken and Appleton drink specials. 8 PM-CLOSE, BOB MARLEY’S UNIVERSAL STUDIOS CITYWALK, $7
ORLANDO HOLD’EM 8:30 PM, MATADOR, FREE
FACTORY FRIDAY $5 Jager bombs. 5 PM-2 AM, STONEWALL NEIGHBORHOOD BAR, FREE
FLIP FLOP FRIDAYS Happy hour $3 you call it; $2 beer specials. 5 PM, LYRICA, SOUTH MAGNOLIA AVE., *SPECIALS AND TIMES SUBJECT TO CHANGE
HAPPY HOUR
4 PM-7:30 PM, EMBER BAR AND RESTAURANT, FREE
SATURDAY
CABARET DINNER SHOW W/ LEIGH SHANNON 8:30 PM, HAMBURGER MARY’S, FREE
DATING GAME
8:30 PM, GRAFFITI JUNKTION, THORNTON PARK, FREE
POWER HOUR 3-4-1 drinks. 11:30 PM - 12:30 AM, LATITUDES, $5
SPIN SATURDAYS $6 Kettle One with VJ Jerome . 10 PM-2 AM, STONEWALL NEIGHBORHOOD BAR, FREE
PINT NIGHT
5 PM-7:30 PM, BIG BELLY BREWERY, FREE
Drink a pint, keep the glass! 5 PM, MELLOW MUSHROOM, ALOMA AVE, FREE
WAITIKI WEDNESDAY
YAPPY HOUR PARTY
$2.50 Red Stripe and live reggae. 4-11 PM, WAITIKI, WALL STREET, FREE
3 PM-7 PM, TASTINGS, A WINE EXPERIENCE
WINE DOWN WEDNESDAY
FRIDAY
$20 All you can drink wine and appetizers. 5 PM-8 PM, URBAN FLATS, $20
You give $1 and the bar gives you a random beer. ALL DAY, LOADED HOG, FREE
DUMPSTER DIVE
Want to add something to the calendar? E-mail us at calendar@drinkorlando.com Listed time reflects start time of drinking event. Bar hours and cover charge prior to that time may vary.
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September 2010
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THIS MONTH’S FIVE BEST DRINKS IN ORLANDO And The Bartenders That Pour Them
By Ricky Diamond & Heather Lyles
Redlight Redlight 745 Bennet Rd. Redlight Redlight is a treasure trove for the beer lover (as well as the novice). It’s not your typical watering hole – it prefers to call itself a beer parlor, and for good reason. The ridiculously well-educated staff can walk you through the mind-boggling beer list (this bar has numerous brews to choose from on tap, by the bottle and even aged). Don’t come here looking for your staple PBR, or any other domestic or widely available beer, because Redlight doesn’t carry it. Daily happy hour prices make a noteworthy selection of choice beers very affordable – usually around the $3 mark – so you can’t blame your finances for the fact that you’re still drinking the stuff you used to play beer pong with in college. Bartender George recommends to the beer newbie, as well as the seasoned pro: La Chouffe, a Belgian golden ale that has a light citrusy flavor with hints of coriander (you know, that stuff that makes Indian food taste like Indian food). It’s his go-to beer when someone is looking for a break from typical pilsners and lagers. George will not only regale customers with stories of bands he’s hung out with after a night at The Social – he’ll also find even the worst beer critic a brew they can love.
Milk Bar 2424 E. Robinson St. The name might lead you to believe that owners Brian and Janet were trying to recreate the famed Kubrickian haunt when they opened Milk Bar. Really they were just looking for something easy to remember. After all, when drunk and near the T.G. Lee milk factory (this neighborhood is now known as the Milk District) what better way to describe your location than by telling your friends, “um, I’m near that milk bar?” The Milk Bar boasts an ever-changing list of more than 80 beers at any given time. This place has only been open a few months, but it’s already drawing a dedicated crowd. Brian recommends what he calls a “safe for everyone” beer, otherwise known as the St. Bernardus ABT 12. A Belgian Quadrupel, the ABT 12 runs at 10.5 percent alcohol content. In the words of Samuel Jackson, “It’ll get you DRUNK!” That aside, it has a dark color and a fruity flavor that easily makes it the most recognized brew from the St. Bernardus line of beers.
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September 2010
FUN, MUSIC & FOOD
20 S R E B EN O TAP
NFL
PAC K
AGE
6 LA SCR RGE E TVSEN
.
FULL R O LIQU R BA
MNF FOOTBALL CONTEST (come in for details)
Live Entertainment Wed. - Sun.
SERVING LUNCH AND DINNER
9-10
WIN $1000
Late Night Menu Fri & Sat
www.ScruffyMurphysOrlando.com • 2625 Edgewater Dr. in College Park!
September 2010
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Indeed the classiest joint in the Wall Street Plaza, you can comfortably sip on your martini from high above and watch the drunken crowd stumble from bar to bar below. And the names of the drinks will have you reading the signature martini list over and over again: Yes, you read that menu right – the drinks are all named after porn stars, which playfully puts the Monkey Bar back into Wall Street territory. As with all of the Wall Street establishments, be prepared to get drunk. You’ll breathe a sigh of relief when you see that the martini you paid $12 for is an oversized 7-ounce drink. And once you take a sip, you’ll be even happier. The Suzannah French, a delicious dessert as well as drink, will have even the manliest of men sneaking back to order one for themselves after sipping on their sweetheart’s cocktail. Ask Paige to pour you one of these decadent strawberry cheesecake-flavored libations and you’ll not only get one hell of a buzz but a history lesson to boot. Paige, who’s not just your typical babe of a bartender, will happily tell you about Wall Street’s eclectic past and some close encounters with the ghosts that still roam the streets long after last call.
Stonewall Bar and Grill 741 West Church St. Feeling a bit fruity, but want to keep it low key? Head down to Stonewall and have Steven shake up a shot that will satisfy your sweet tooth. His signature Blue Raspberry Sno Cone shot is one of the best ways to treat your inner child. But don’t let the warm and fuzzy childhood memories fool you! Made with Smirnoff Blueberry, Smirnoff Raspberry, Blue Curacao, Chambord, a drop or two of cranberry, 7-Up and sour mix, this drink is potent. If you’re not paying attention, you could end up like that guy on YouTube getting hit by the ice-cream truck.
Graffiti Junktion 900 E. Washington St.
Stonewall, with its pool table, karaoke set up and a menu that includes mini bags of Cheetos and onion rings, is the kind of place you can belly up to the bar and hang out for a while. The name might sound cold, but the people here are warm and inviting – gay and straight alike.
Graffiti Junktion might be known for its legendary burgers and “everyone’s welcome” atmosphere, but there is something you might not know: bar manager Ricky Martinez has influenced the way you get shitfaced in Orlando for years. He worked for Bacardi as a drink developer, and he’s the one who taught the bartenders at lots of the city’s favorite night spots – Waitiki on Wall Street, Ruth’s Chris, Latin Quarter on CityWalk, the House of Blues – to pour your drinks just right. Now he’s the resident DJ (drink jockey) at Graffiti Junktion, and he mixes up his own twist on the classic mojito. Made with a heavy pour of white rum, mint, lime and orange slices, this fresh and citrusy concoction will get you places that your typical mimosa will not. Feel like that brunch-time hangover needs a swifter kick in the pants? Try the Grand Slam shot: half Jameson, half butterscotch schnapps and served with a chaser of OJ. Sip slowly now – you might forget completely than you’re not drinking liquid IHOP and end up in worse shape than you were the night before.
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continued from page 28
The Monkey Bar, 26 Wall St., upstairs
DR 4-10
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PARAMORE, TEGAN & SARA, NEW FOUND GLORY 6:30 pm, UCF Arena, $23-$33
UPROAR FEST WITH DISTURBED, AVENGED SEVENFOLD 3:15 pm, 1-800-ASK-GARY Amphitheatre, $25-$75
5 Want to add something to the calendar? E-mail us at calendar@drinkorlando.com Listed time reflects start time of event. Venue hours and cover charge prior to that time may vary.
BEAR IN HEAVEN, CRYSTAL CASTLES 8 pm, Firestone Live, $20-$25
NAPPY ROOTS 9 pm, The Social, $15
9
15th Anniversary of Will’s Pub w/ THOMAS WYNN & THE BELIEVERS, AMERICAN AQUARIUM, PONDEROSA, & KALEIGH BAKER 8 pm, Will’s Pub, $7-$8
2
S M T W T
JOHN MAYER 7 pm, 1-800-ASK-GARY Amphitheatre, $30-$63.50
10
BOOMBOX 10 pm, The Social, $10-$12
MATT HIRES, WAKEY WAKEY 6:30 pm, The Social, $8-$10
4
3
JIMMY GNECCO (of OURS) FULL BAND PERFORMANCE, PLAIN JANE AUTOMOBILE 9 pm, The Social, $20
11 CITIZEN COPE 7:30 pm, House of Blues, $22.25-$25.25
BANDWAGON, featuring: SUBLIME WITH ROME, SNOOP DOGG, REVEREND HORTON HEAT, MIX MASTER MIKE, UNWRITTEN LAW, ROYAL CROWN REVUE, & UNKNOWN HINSON Orlando Citrus Bowl, RadioBandWagon.com oB
S
F
SEPTEMBER 2010
C O N C E RT CA L E N DA R
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19
MARC ANTHONY 8 pm, Amway Arena, $55-$125
SHAKIRA 8 pm, Amway Arena, $9.50-$148.50
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22
HILLBILLY HUMP DAYS FEATURING NICK WITTE AND DJ DADDY GET OFF MY SMOKES 9 pm, Will’s Pub, free
15
GODSMACK, REV THEORY 7 pm, Hard Rock Live, $45-$95
29
THE BLACK CROWES 7:30 pm, House of Blues, $36.50$40
MUMPSY; BALTHROP, ALABAMA; THE HIGH FLYIN’ VIOLETS 8 pm, The Social, $5-$8
14
LADY ANTEBELLUM, DAVID NAIL 6:30 pm, Hard Rock Live, $39.50-$57.50
20
SLEEPY SUN, STRANGERS FAMILY BAND 8 pm, The Social, $10-$12
13
18 BIG SKY 9 pm, The Social, $10
KINGS OF LEON, THE BLACK KEYS, THE WHIGS 7:30 pm, 1-800-ASKGARY Amphitheatre, $30.50-$50.50
Oct 6th The National, Owen Pallet 7 pm, House of Blues, $25$27.50 Lights Over Paris 8 pm, Back Booth, $10
Coming in October
THE DRUMS, SURFER BLOOD, YOUNG FRIENDS 8 pm, The Social, $15-$17
Instore performance w/ STEEL TRAIN 8 pm, Park Ave CDs, free
17
Oct 1st Phantogram with Josiah Wolf (of WHY?) 8 pm, Back Booth, $12-$14 Oct 2nd American Carnage, featuring Slayer, Megadeth, Anthrax 6 pm, Hard Rock Live, $45-$120; & Matt Stillwell 9:30 pm, The Barn, free-$7 Oct 3rd Blood on the Dance Floor, Let’s Get It, Breathe Electric 5 pm, The Social, $12-$14 Oct 4th Gaslight Anthem, Rival Schools, Fake Problems 7 pm, House of Blues, $18.25-$20.25 Oct 5th LCD Soundsystem, Sleigh Bells 8 pm, Hard Rock Live, $32-$37
TOM PETTY & THE HEARTBREAKERS, ZZ TOP 7 pm, St. Pete Times Forum, Tampa, $61.25$143.60
PUBLIC ENEMY 8 pm, Firestone Live, $20-$25
16
BAND REVIEWS
MUSIC
LEFT OF CENTER By Kyle Raker
W
hen it comes to nightlife, music is a huge part of it, and here in Orlando we’re pretty effin blessed to have a thriving, diverse local music scene. Unfortunately, while most of the big crowds go out to see better known touring acts, some really talented bands can get overlooked. Featured here are four of the many great local acts, and they are definitely worth checking out.
Slippery Slopes (Punk/Garage/Alcohol) Listen if you like: Supercharger, Gizmos, Fashion Fashion and the Image Boys When I emailed Erik of Slippery Slopes asking ng for a bio, he wrote back saying the band was getting tting drunk and listening to the Sex Pistols. And that they just drove by a guy watching his dogs fuck in the front yard. The bio claimed they wentt on tour with The Black Eyed Peas. If this description doesn’t make you want to listen to them, you probably wouldn’t like ke them anyway. However, if you like alcohol ol and partying – along with loud rock-and-roll – you might dislike them somewhat less. s. UPCOMING SHOWS: “SAM FROM VRGNS FORGOT TO PUT IT TOGETHER.”
Mumpsy (Indie/Garage/Pop) Listen if you like: The Kinks, The Beatles, The Ramones Frontman Jeff Ilgenfritz has a knack for writing pop songs. Not cheesy, overproduced radio pop. The good kind of pop that comes about when someone whose musical vernacular includes both the Kinks and the Misfits. The songs Mumpsy produces include all of the right elements of rock-and-roll, without any of the bullshit. And you can always tell they are having a fun time on stage – the sort of fun that’s contagious. UPCOMING SHOWS: 09/14 AT THE SOCIAL, WITH BALTHROP, AL
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9-10
September 2010
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continued
LEFT OF CENTER
Khann (Hardcore/Metal/Progressive) Listen if you like: Botch, Dillinger Escape Plan, Torche Khann happens to be one of my favorite bands in Orlando. They bring intensity to every set they play, and they play loud as hell. They have obvious punk, metal and hardcore influences, blending blast beats with a wall of guitars and bass. Khann is one of the few bands in Orlando that rivals some of the other good Florida bands of their ilk, such as Torche and The Holy Mountain. UPCOMING SHOWS: 09/17 AT BACKBOOTH WITH OVERDALE, FURIOUS DUDES, BULLETPROOF TIGER, WEEKS
Mike Dunn and The Kings of New England (Americana/Rock-and-Roll) Listen if you like: Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers, Gasoline Heart, Bruce Springsteen Another great Orlando singer-songwriter, Mike Dunn has somehow learned to distill the key elements of American Rock & Roll, and make them his own. In the movie, “Crazy Heart,” there’s a scene where Jeff Bridges’ character plays a song he just wrote. He asks his girlfriend what she thinks, and she says she thinks it sounds like a song she’s heard before. His response? “All the good ones do.” He’s right, and that’s the feeling you’ll get when you see Mike Dunn & The Kings of New England. You may think you’ve heard the songs before, but you haven’t. He wrote those great rock songs, and we are the beneficiaries. UPCOMING SHOWS: 09/10 AT WILL’S PUB
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6-10
September 2010
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KARAOKE & OPEN MIC
SUNDAY ACOUSTIC JAM NIGHT
OPEN MIC HOSTED BY IRINA
9 pm, Scruffy Murphy’s, free
Austin’s Coffee, free
KORNDOGG’S ROCKBAND KARAOKE
OPEN MIC ACOUSTIC JAM NIGHT
7 pm-10 pm, Graffiti Junction, Thornton Park, free
MONDAY ART JAM TALENT NIGHT 8 pm - midnight, Tom & Jerry’s Lounge, free
TUESDAY CRAZY JOHN’S KARAOKE 5 pm, Parliament House, free
8 pm-11 pm, Sanford Wine Company, free
THURSDAY BEER PONG KARAOKE WITH DR. BANG 10 pm, One Eyed Jack’s, free
LITTLE FISH OPEN MIC NIGHT 8 pm, Little Fish, Huge Pond, Sanford, Free
WALLY’S KARAOKE 7:30 pm, Wally’s Liquors, free
WEDNESDAY KARAOKE WITH BRAD 8 pm, Casselberry Patio Bar, free
FRIDAY DR. DAVE’S KARAOKE THERAPY
KARAOKE 9 pm, Big Daddy’s Roadhouse, free
RISING STAR KARAOKE W/ LIVE BAND & BACK-UP SINGERS 8 pm, Citywalk, $7
TWISTED SISTERS KARAOKE & PONY SHOW 6 pm, The Parliament House, free
SATURDAY KARAOKE 9 pm, Big Daddy’s Roadhouse, free
RISING STAR KARAOKE W/ LIVE BAND & BACK-UP SINGERS 8 pm, Citywalk, $7
10 pm, The Peacock Room, free
Want to add something to the calendar? E-mail us at calendar@drinkorlando.com Listed time reflects start time of drinking event. Bar hours and cover charge prior to that time may vary.
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GREAT LIVE MUSIC NIGHTLY INCLUDING THESE SPECIAL PERFORMANCES THROUGH OCTOBER: SEPTEMBER 9.1.10 Tinsley Ellis 9.16.10 Michael Burks 9.20.10 Devon Allman & Honey Tribe 9.23.10 Kenny Neal
8-10
OCTOBER 10.7.10 Jimmy Thackery 10.20.10 Eric Lindell 10.28.10 Bob Margolan
OPEN FOR LUNCH & DINNER! 9101 I-DR. (located at Pointe Orlando) 407.370.4550 | www.bbkingclubs.com September 2010
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