Riverfront Times - December 30, 2015 by Chava Communications

DECEMBER 30, 2015–JANUARY 5, 2016 I VOLUME 39 I NUMBER 51

RIVERFRONTTIMES.COM I FREE

SPOILER ALERT: the old man dies

THE YEAR’S 10 BEST NEW RESTAURANTS

10 BEST LOCAL ALBUMS

9 FILMS THAT MADE US THINK

2012 Winner Best Lawyer AGGRESSIVE Criminal Defense on YOUR Behalf HIRE AN EXPERIENCED DWI ATTORNEY Get the knowledge and experience YOU need.

Honors and Awards: • Charles Shaw Trial Advocacy Award • Missouri and Kansas Super Lawyers • St. Louis Magazine, Best Lawyers in St. Louis DWI • Riverfront Times Best Lawyer • Best Lawyers in United States • Best Lawyer to call from a DWI checkpoint, as voted by lawyers in Missouri for Missouri Lawyers Weekly Proven Defense by a Former Law Enforcement Officer Experienced and Focused

winning Cases

Missouri Drunk Driving Attorney

They Say Can’t Be Won

Don’t trust just anyone with your DWI defense. Contact the law firm of Travis Noble, P.C., by e-mail or call us at 314-450-7849 or 866-794-0947 to schedule your free consultation with a St. Louis DWI lawyer to discover that you have more options than you imagined. We accept all major credit cards, including Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express.

Travis Noble, P.C. 8000 Maryland Avenue, Suite 350 | St. Louis MO 63105 Phone: 314-721-6040 | Toll Free: 866-794-0947 The choice of a lawyer is an important decision and should not be based solely upon advertisements. This disclosure is required by rule of the Supreme Court of Missouri.

RIVERFRONT TIMES

DECEMBER 30, 2015-JANUARY 5, 2016

riverfronttimes.com

DECEMBER 30, 2015-JANUARY 5, 2016

RIVERFRONT TIMES

DC CHICKEN SAYS

“RING IN THE NEW YEAR RIGHT!”

Your hometown

Open New Year’s Eve and Day until 10pm

firearms retailer

for 15 years!

2015

VERDI $

6.99 750 ML

BAREFOOT BUBBLY $

7.99 750ML

DOM PERIGNON $

149.99 750ML EGG NOG STARTING AT $

6.99 750 ML

FINE CIGARS FROM OUR HUMIDOR SAINT LUIS REY, MACANUDO, ROMEO & JULIETA, ACID, COHIBA & MORE!

COOK’S SPARKLING WINE

KORBEL CHAMPAGNE

5.29 750ML

CUPCAKE MOSCATO D’ASTI $

10.49 750ML VINIQ $

16.99 750ML

11.49 750ML

MOSCATOS

RANGING FROM $ 5.69 TO $

13.99 750 ML

JOHNNIE WALKER BLUE $

179.99 750ML

BUFFALO TRACE

BASIL HAYDEN

20.99 750 ML PICK-A-SIX MIX & MATCH TO CREATE YOUR OWN 6 PACK!

34.99 750 ML

8205 Gravois Road • St. Louis, MO 63123 • (314) 631-3130 midamericaarms.com • facebook.com/MidAmericaArms

LEVIN’S • Coats to 8X • Thermals up to size 8X • Dickies Pants to size 72 • Long Sleeve Shirts to 8X • Dickies Boots to size 14 • Boy’s & Men’s Suits up to 72

Sizes Medium-6X Also available in black

• Men’s Dress Shirts up to 8X

NEW Merchandise Arriving Daily!

• T-Shirts & Sweatpants up to 10X

HOURS: MON-FRI 9-5

• Polo Style Shirts to 8X

ALTERATIONS AVAILABLE

COLD BEER AT DIRT CHEAP PRICES!

7.99 6PK BTLS

Some prices may differ by location. Prices good thru 1/6/15.

16 ARE A LOC ATI ONS ! N! BUT BE CAREFUL OUT THER U F E V E. HA

SURGEON GENERAL’S WARNING: Quitting Smoking Now Greatly Reduces Serious Risk To Your Health.

DECEMBER 30, 2015-JANUARY 5, 2016

Insulated Coveralls

• Men’s Dress Slack Sets up to 8X

·HUMIDORS ·VAPORS/E-CIGS ·PARTY GEAR ·KEGS ·SPECIAL ORDERS!

RIVERFRONT TIMES

Winter is Here!

CLOTHING FROM NEW BORN TO 86" IN PANTS • Hooded Sweatshirts to 10X

·HUGE WALK-IN BEER CAVE COOLERS

Voted Best Gun Shop of 2015 by the RFT

riverfronttimes.com

SAT 9:30-3 SUN 11-3

1401 WASHINGTON • 314-436-0999

THE LEDE

“It looks like we’re almost the stepchild in this whole situation. Yeah, we’d like to have [the new stadium] here. Yeah, there’s some benefits here. But in the end we’re toeing the line for some folks who get a free ride.”

PHOTO BY THEO WELLING

—IVAN MARTIN AT THE ST. LOUIS BOARD OF ALDERMAN MEETING PENDING RAMS STADIUM ON DECEMBER 18

THE DECISION OF THE NEW

riverfronttimes.com

DECEMBER 30, 2015-JANUARY 5, 2016

RIVERFRONT TIMES

TABLE OF CONTENTS FEATURE

11.

Ones to Watch

From heavy music to hip-hop, here are ten acts to keep your eyes on in the new year Written by

NICK HORN Cover by

MARK ANDRESEN

NEWS

CULTURE

DINING

MUSIC

The Lede

Calendar

Your friend or neighbor, captured on camera

Seven days worth of great stuff to see and do

A Little Lie, a Big Miracle

How a little girl’s plea turned into a huge help for her family

The Best of What’s Around

Cheryl Baehr recaps her favorite new restaurants of 2015

Christian Schaeffer on his top ten albums of the year

New Year’s Eve Listings

We’ve got the best places to ring in 2016

Chef Chat

Pastaria’s Ashley Shelton has upped St. Louis’ pasta game, but proudly still loves her Imo’s.

9 from ’15

Robert Hunt crunches the numbers on the year’s best films

Food News

How Hiro became a test kitchen for up-and-comers

Dining Guide

Where to eat right now in the Gateway City

RIVERFRONT TIMES

DECEMBER 30, 2015-JANUARY 5, 2016

The Best St. Louis Albums of 2015

riverfronttimes.com

Dabbin’ vs. Swaggin’

One group says East St. Louis should get some props for the dance craze

Out Every Night

The best concerts in St. Louis every night of the week

This Just In

This week’s new concert announcements

Publisher Chris Keating Editor in Chief Sarah Fenske

we work on mostly all metals with state of the art equipment, and the repairs are in house

WITHIN 72 HOURS!

ring sizing appraisals chainsoldering/extending/shortening stone setting watch batteries/link adjustments

$10 off any repair over $30 $20 off any repair over $50 $6 watch battery (2 per customer)

473 lafayette center, manchester mo 63011 (636) 391-6622 www.thediamondfam.com

A R T Art Director Kelly Glueck Contributing Photographers Abby Gillardi, Robert Rohe, Mabel Suen, Steve Truesdell, Eric Frazier Micah Usher, Theo Welling, Corey Woodruff, Jennifer Silverberg P R O D U C T I O N Production Manager Robert Westerholt Production Designer Brittani Schlager

M U LT I M E D I A A D V E R T I S I N G Associate Publisher Terry Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Neill Sales Director Colin Bell Senior Account Executive Cathleen Criswell Multimedia Account Executives Matt Bartosz, Christopher Guilbault, Erica Kenney, Nicole Starzyk Account Managers Emily Fear, Jennifer Samuel C I R C U L A T I O N Circulation Manager Kevin G. Powers E U C L I D M E D I A G RO U P Chief Executive Officer Andrew Zelman Chief Operating Officers Chris Keating, Michael Wagner Chief Financial Officer Brian Painley Human Resources Director Lisa Beilstein Senior Marketing & Events Director Cassandra Yardeni www.euclidmediagroup.com N A T I O N A L A D V E R T I S I N G VMG Advertising 1-888-278-9866, www.voicemediagroup.com

g over the loop for ov un shinin er 2 0 s e h ye a gt n i p rs e e

S U B S C R I P T I O N S Send address changes to Riverfront Times, 6358 Delmar Blvd., Suite 300, St. Louis, MO 63130. Domestic subscriptions may be purchased for $78/6 months (Missouri residents add $4.74 sales tax) and $156/year (Missouri residents add $9.48 sales tax) for first class. Allow 6-10 days for standard delivery. www.riverfronttimes.com

Was your Christmas gift the wrong size?

E D I T O R I A L Associate Editor Kristie McClanahan Arts & Culture Editor Paul Friswold Music Editor Daniel Hill Digital Editor Elizabeth Semko Staff Writers Doyle Murphy, Danny Wicentowski Restaurant Critic Cheryl Baehr Editorial Interns Joshua Connelly, Aaron Davidoff Contributing Writers Mike Appelstein, Allison Babka, Nicole Beckert, Samantha Dever, Mark Fischer, Sara Graham, Joseph Hess, Patrick J. Hurley, Roy Kasten, Kevin Korinek, Dan LeRoy, Jaime Lees, Todd McKenzie, Bob McMahon, Lauren Milford, Nicholas Phillips, Tef Poe, Christian Schaeffer, Alison Sieloff, Mabel Suen, Ryan Wasoba, Alex Weir

The Riverfront Times is published weekly by Euclid Media Group Verified Audit Member

The Ori gi na l S u n s h in e D ayd ream (est . 1 9 9 4 )

Riverfront Times 6358 Delmar Boulevard, Suite 300, St. Louis, MO 63130-4719 www.riverfronttimes.com General information: 314-754-5966 Fax administrative: 314-754-5955 Fax editorial: 314-754-6416 Founded by Ray Hartmann in 1977

Riverfront Times is available free of charge, limited to one copy per reader. Additional copies of the current issue may be purchased for $1.00 plus postage, payable in advance at the Riverfront Times office. Riverfront Times may be distributed only by Riverfront Times authorized distributors. No person may, without prior written permission of Riverfront Times, take more than one copy of each Riverfront Times weekly issue. The entire contents of Riverfront Times are copyright 2015 by Riverfront Times, LLC. No portion may be reproduced in whole or in part by any means, including electronic retrieval systems, without the expressed written permission of the Publisher, Riverfront Times, 6358 Delmar Blvd., Ste. 200, St. Louis, MO 63130. Please call the Riverfront Times office for back-issue information, 314-754-5966.

Grateful Dead, Beatles, & other Classic Rock Memorabilia! 6608 Delmar Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63130 (314) 727-9043 | sunshinedaydreamloop.com

riverfronttimes.com

DECEMBER 30, 2015-JANUARY 5, 2016

RIVERFRONT TIMES

NEWS

A Little Fib – and a Big Christmas Miracle Written by

DANNY WICENTOWSKI

his Christmas story opens, as many do, with a child’s letter. Addressed to a generous tinkerer many miles away, the envelope contained a single folded sheet of paper and five one-dollar bills, each skimmed from a week’s worth of lunch money. The message itself, handwritten in pencil, contained three things: a wish, a plea for secrecy and a boldfaced lie. We’ll get to that last part in a bit. Earlier this month, the letter arrived at the offices of Missouri Wind and Solar, located some 45 miles east of Springfield, and made its way to the desk of the company’s founder, Jeff Harmon, a wiry man with large glasses and a drooping black mustache. A minor celebrity among the DIY crowd, Harmon hosts a YouTube channel and produces instructional videos on building wind turbines and solar panels. He has gotten used to hearing from students working on school projects, but this letter was different. In a video uploaded December 13, Harmon looked into the camera and said, “Nine-year-old Ariel from Stephenville, Texas, this video is for you.” Harmon picked up a sheet of lined paper from a kitchen table. “I’ve got to read this letter to you,” he told his audience. “Dear Jeff,” the letter began. “My name is Ariel. I am nine years old and in the fourth grade. I’ve been watching your show on YouTube. I hope I am as smart as you when I grow up and can build a wind turbine. I have a science fair coming up in January of 2016 and I want to do a project

RIVERFRONT TIMES

Jeff Harmon, owner of Missouri Wind And Solar, shows off the contents of a girl’s letter. | YOUTUBE on renewable energy.” Adorable. And nothing out of the ordinary so far. But then the letter took an unexpectedly heartbreaking turn. “I want to build a wind turbine like you and show the world my wind turbine and keep my parents from arguing over high electric bills. My brother helped me look on Ebay after I saw your demonstration on how the Freedom wind turbine works. The Freedom would be perfect for my science project. Mama says we don’t have enough money. She tried to help me but isn’t very good at building stuff.” Apparently, the five dollar bills Ariel included with the letter were intended to purchase a Freedom II, which is a five-blade, 60-pound turbine that Missouri Wind and Solar sells on its website for $768. “I should have enough money saved up,” Ariel’s letter concluded. “I saved my lunch money all

DECEMBER 30, 2015-JANUARY 5, 2016

week. I got to win the science fair, so mama will be proud of me. Thank for your help, please don’t tell mama I didn’t eat my lunch. I’ll get in trouble.” The letter was signed, “Your friend, Ariel.” (Harmon redacted the last name in the video.) Harmon was moved by Ariel’s innocent requests, and he knew what it felt like to struggle paying bills. And so to help Ariel’s parents lower their energy costs, Harmon told his YouTube audience that he would send a case of LED light bulbs to replace the inefficient bulbs in their house. For Ariel, he would send a “special science fair project.” Harmon also said he would mail Ariel’s parents a check for $500. “A nine-year-old kid shouldn’t have to worry about their parents’ electric bill or them fighting about an electric bill,” Harmon said in the video. “That’s horrible.”

riverfronttimes.com

But there was a critical hitch in Harmon’s plan. Ariel’s loopy handwriting on the envelope had left the return address virtually unreadable. And there was a timing issue as well, since Harmon wanted the turbine kit to reach Ariel before the science fair. In a last-ditch effort, Harmon took the envelope to a postal worker who gave Harmon his best guess at the address. Harmon decided to send a turbine kit designed for educational purposes. He hoped it reached Ariel in time. When Riverfront Times first contacted Harmon before Christmas, he was still searching for the little girl’s address. He knew that her family lived in Stephenville, a city of roughly 19,000 about 110 miles west of Dallas, but that’s where his certainty ended. One of his YouTube fans even tried identifying local science fairs in the Stephenville area, hoping that it would point them to Ariel, but that tactic went nowhere. Harmon didn’t want to send the $500 or the light bulbs until he confirmed the address. “I don’t know if she got the turbine or not,” Harmon said two weeks ago, sounding resigned. “If I sent it to the wrong place, well, OK then.” With a little social-media snooping, we were able to find Ariel’s mother and step-father in Stephenville. And, yes, a mysterious FedEx package had arrived earlier that same day, December 17. There was a turbine kit inside. But that’s not where this Christmas story ends. It turns out that there was more to Ariel’s letter than just a little girl’s science fair project. “After watching the video, we realized it wasn’t Ariel that sent the letter,” laughs Daniel, her step-father, during a phone interview. “It was actually Alice. She used her sister’s name in order to try not to get in trouble because she didn’t eat her lunch.” The fib goes even deeper. Ariel isn’t just the name of Alice’s sister — it is the name of Alice’s unborn sister, due in January. So Continued on pg 9

CHRISTMAS MIRACLE Continued from pg 8 But there was a critical hitch in Harmon’s plan. Ariel’s loopy handwriting on the envelope had left the return address virtually unreadable. And there was a timing issue as well, since Harmon wanted the turbine kit to reach Ariel before the science fair. In a last-ditch effort, Harmon took the envelope to a postal worker who gave Harmon his best guess at the address. Harmon decided to send a turbine kit designed for educational purposes. He hoped it reached Ariel in time. When Riverfront Times first contacted Harmon before Christmas, he was still searching for the little girl’s address. He knew that her family lived in Stephenville, a city of roughly 19,000 about 110 miles west of Dallas, but that’s where his certainty ended. One of his YouTube fans even tried identifying local science fairs in the Stephenville area, hoping that it would point them to Ariel, but that tactic went nowhere. Harmon didn’t want to send the $500 or the light bulbs until he confirmed the address. “I don’t know if she got the turbine or not,” Harmon said two weeks ago, sounding resigned. “If I sent it to the wrong place, well, OK then.” With a little social-media snooping, we were able to find Ariel’s mother and step-father in Stephenville. And, yes, a mysterious FedEx package had arrived earlier that same day, December 17. There was a turbine kit inside. But that’s not where this Christmas story ends. It turns out that there was more to Ariel’s letter than just a little girl’s science fair project. “After watching the video, we realized it wasn’t Ariel that sent the letter,” laughs Daniel, her step-father, during a phone interview. “It was actually Alice. She used her sister’s name in order to try not to get in trouble because she didn’t eat her lunch.” The fib goes even deeper. Ariel isn’t just the name of Alice’s sister — it is the name of Alice’s unborn sister, due in January. So Continued on pg 9

when Alice’s pregnant mother, Robin, inspected the mysterious package on her porch, she was confronted with the name of a child who wasn’t even born yet. “I opened it up, and I was like, ‘What in the world is this?’” Robin says. “I went to go pick up Alice from school, and when she saw the package she was so excited about it. And I’m looking at her going, ‘What is in the world is going on?’ I could tell she was keeping something from me, but she wouldn’t tell me what it was.” After watching the video, it all made sense. Alice finally fessed up to the identity theft, explaining that she didn’t want to get in trouble for laundering her lunch money. Daniel provides the back story to Alice’s precocious plan: The family has been struggling with their electric bill for years. He says he started watching Harmon’s YouTube channel about two years ago, hoping he could make the family self-sufficient or at least put a dent in the monthly bill. Alice would watch the videos along with him. The worst of the family’s bill problems came last year, when the electric company shut off their power. For the clutch of baby cockatiels the family was raising, the sudden cold proved deadly. “Alice was just absolutely devastated by it,” Daniel says. “At that point she decided she wanted to help me try to build a wind turbine so our electricity would never get shut off again.” But Daniel could never seem to get his DIY turbines to generate enough voltage, and he said that he recently gave up on the whole endeavor. It fell to Alice to keep the dream alive. “It was kind of disappointing that she lied about who she was,” Daniel says. “She should have just been honest from the get-go about the whole thing. But kids do what they do.” And in this case, Alice taking matters into her own hands led to a happy ending — all thanks to Jeff Harmon, who says that the LED light bulbs and $500 check are finally on their way to Texas. Hard to get too upset about that. n

Backstreet Jazz & Blues club Free admission after shows at Westport Funny Bone

614 Westport Plaza

(314) 469-6692

JOHN MORGAN

December 30 - January 4 • Bob & Tom show • Last Comic Standing

ADAM RAY January 7-10

• From the film The Heat • Comedy Central’s @midnight

APRIL MACIE January 14-17

• Last Comic Standing • The Howard Stern show

GREG WARREN January 28-31

• Bob & Tom show • The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson • Last Comic Standing 32 Meramec Valley Plaza

(636) 529-1201

LISA LANDRY

December 31 - January 2

• The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson • Comedy Central Presents Lisa Landry

RYAN SINGER January 7-10

• CMT’s Next Big Comic • A frequent guest on the WTF Podcast w/Marc Maron

JOHN MORGAN January 14-17 • Bob & Tom show • Last Comic Standing

Purchase tickets online @ stlouisfunnybone.com

riverfronttimes.com

DECEMBER 30, 2015-JANUARY 5, 2016

RIVERFRONT TIMES

Fleur de Lilies

Holiday Tasting Menu FIVE COURSES $50 PER PERSON ADD BEER

LIQUOR TASTING $25 TWO PERSON MINIMUM

PER PERSON

Course One - Tuna Tataki

SEARED, MARINATED IN YUZU JUICE AND SERVED WITH BUTTER GARLIC SAUCE PAIRED WITH KIRIN ICHIBAN OR SIGNATURE SOCKTAIL

Course Two - Creole Green Onion Soup RICH CREAMY BROTH, MUSHROOMS, GREEN ONION PAIRED WITH GOOSE ISLAND IPA OR WHISKEY

Course Three - Fusion Salad

ORGANIC BABY KALE, SPICED PECANS, DRIED APRICOTS, SOY BALSAMIC VINAIGRETTE PAIRED WITH SHOCK TOP BELGIAN WHITE OR SIGNATURE COCKTAIL

Course Four - FDL Surf & Turf FLAMBEAU CHATEAUBRIAND AND BARBECUE SHRIMP PAIRED WITH CHIMAY RED OR WHISKEY

Course Five - Chocolate Mousse Cake SERVED WITH RASPBERRY JAM PAIRED WITH RASPBERRY FRAMBOISE OR DIGESTIF

1031 Lynch Street • Saint Louis, MO 63118 314-932-5051 • FleurdeLilies.com

All services performed under the direct supervision of licensed instructors. For more information about our graduation rate, the median loan debt, who completed the program, and other information, please visit our website at paulmitchell.edu/ge. Financial aid is available to those who qualify.

New 2016 Camry LE

$21,749 AND 0% FOR 60 MONTHS *

New 2016 Corolla LE

$18,399 AND 0% FOR 60 MONTHS *

New 2016 RAV4 XLE 4x2

$25,149 AND 0% FOR 60 MONTHS *

FALL IN LOVE WITH STYLE! SHOP ONLINE WHERE WE BRING YOU AFFORDABLE FASHION free shipping worldwide!

EXP. 1/4/16

MAKE A BOLD STATEMENT

*WITH APPROVED CREDIT

@LEDIVINESTL

LEDIVINECOLLECTION

@LEDIVINECOLLECTIONGSTL

www.ledivinecollection.com 1426 WASHINGTON AVE. | ST. LOUIS, MO 63103 | 314.632.6425 | TUES-SAT 1-8PM | INFO@LEDIVINECOLLECTION.COM

RIVERFRONT TIMES

DECEMBER 30, 2015-JANUARY 5, 2016

riverfronttimes.com

River Kittens: You’ll see more of them in 2016. | STEVE TRUEDELL

Ones to Watch

he year 2015 has been one hell of a ride for St. Louis music, both at home and abroad. At home, Big Muddy Records celebrated its tenth anniversary with a showcase of its current roster at Off Broadway. Ryan McNeely, a.k.a. Adult Fur, saw acclaimed new-music ensemble Alarm Will Sound premiere his Unfair for the Common Man at the Sheldon. This publication’s annual music showcase returned to the Grove for the second year, presenting more than 70 acts across 10 stages at venues along Manchester Avenue. Elsewhere, Foxing continued its ascent to indie-rock stardom with Dealer, the band’s first release on Triple Crown Records. Pokey LaFarge and company spread their distinctly regional sound to sold-out crowds across the globe. Black Fast spent the year touring the U.S. and Canada in support of Terms of Surrender, the group’s first release since signing to eOne Heavy. St. Louis artists Mz. 007 and Water Liars saw their music used in nationally aired commercials for Southwest Airlines and McDonald’s, respectively. With the exception of those of Mz. 007 (who continues to be criminally overlooked by local music journalists despite her eminently digestible sound, sizable following and national press coverage), most St. Louis music fans are well aware of these accomplishments. Just below this echelon of notoriety, however, are a set of artists who’ve seen less coverage from local media, but are poised to make 2016 one of the best years for local music in quite some time. Here are ten to watch in 2016.

FROM HEAVY MUSIC TO HIP-HOP, HERE ARE OUR PICKS FOR THE 10 ST. LOUIS ACTS TO KEEP AN EYE ON IN 2016 BY NICK HORN

RIVER KITTENS Considering the fact that one third of River Kittens had barely picked up a guitar before two years ago, the tightness and power of the folk trio is impressive. The group — comprised of singer/guitarist/ukulelist Allie Vogler, vocalist/guitarist Martha Mehring and vocalist/guitarist/mandolinist Mattie Schell — formed gradually over the course of about a year, thanks to their mutual attendance at various open mics and folk-jam sessions. The River Kittens’ sound — which the members describe alternately as “raunch folk” and “Americana feels” — hinges on the trio’s tightly rehearsed, soaring three-part vocal harmonies and primitive string-band accompaniments, with the two elements contrasting in always exciting and sometimes unexpected ways. Throughout 2015, River Kittens played prolifically at bars, venues and open-mic nights across the city, in addition to laying down a searing rendition of the cautionary “Trouble” as part of 2015’s Lo-Fi Cherokee. The last year also marked the beginning of the group’s experimentation with additional rhythm-section players, a revolving cast of bassists and drummers. The River Kittens will be closing out 2015 by opening for Pokey LaFarge at his New Year’s Eve celebration at the Pageant. They plan to release an as-yet-unnamed album in March, followed by a tour to support it. Continued on pg 12

riverfronttimes.com

DECEMBER 30, 2015-JANUARY 5, 2016

RIVERFRONT TIMES

ONES TO WATCH Continued from pg 11

BATES Tamara “Bates” Dodd is undoubtedly one of city’s most formidable lyrical improvisers, as a 2014 rap battle with fellow Femcee Nation artist Mahogany proved. In the video of STL Street Report’s first all-female rap battle (now available on YouTube), Dodd’s exceptionally flexible vocabulary and quick wit are on full display as she aggressively delivers rhymes like, “See, I’m a shark on land that can’t fit in a fish place/ Guppies scurry in a hurry when they sense that I sniff bait / You can’t walk a block in my shoes or keep up at this pace / She be like, ‘Bitch wait!’” Throughout her three rounds, Dodd makes wide-ranging and occasionally obscure cultural references, ranging from Trayvon Martin and Osama bin Laden all the way to classic cult film The Last Dragon — seemingly taking pride in some audience members’ inability to keep up with her referential jabs and breakneck pace. Freestyling skills aside, Dodd’s compositions shine on her mixtape The Great DeBates, released in July, and more recently her video and single bitingly entitled “Tell Jesus.” Centering around a melodic hook referring to the Christian messiah as “My Father, my oppressor, my Lord,” Dodd’s most recent release confronts the prevailing imagery of a white Jesus and its historical and current impact on people of color throughout the world. In 2016 Bates plans to release her new album, For Colored Folk, in addition to growing Femcee Nation, an organization she founded to support female artists.

COULTRAIN

Coultrain. | KAT SIMONE

St. Louis singer, songwriter, drummer and visual artist Coultrain — otherwise known as Aaron Michael Frison — initially gained recognition from his work alongside Black Spade in neo-soul/R&B collective Hawthorne Headhunters, whose visibility on the national scene is owed at least partially to a slew of positive reviews for the single “If You Were My Baby,” from the group’s debut album, The Myriad of Now, on Plug Research Records. (That’s the same independent Los Angeles label that gave national acts Bilal, Flying Lotus, and Daedelus their start.) Though neither Coultrain nor Hawthorne Headhunters released an album last year and they only played a handful of shows, their appearance at Chicago’s Double Door opening for Hiatus Kaiyote was reportedly attended by none other than Prince himself. Additionally, Frison’s 2014 release, Side Effex of Make-Believe, was re-released on vinyl by Portland label Fresh Selects. In store in 2016 is the release of Hawthorne Headhunters’ second full-length album, Fool’s Paradise, as well as a rumored new project by the reclusive artist.

DANA MICHAEL ANDERSON Originally from Granite City, Illinois, singer-songwriter Dana Michael Anderson is relatively unknown in many St. Louis circles, except to those who’ve had the privilege to catch him on one of his occasional journeys west of the river to perform at the Tick Tock Tavern or the Focal Point. Edwardsville dive the Stagger Inn Again — where Anderson has been a regular performer and patron for several years — housed the majority of his public performances in 2015, and it provided a regular opportunity for the songwriter to hone his performance skills. Those privileged few St. Louisans who’ve witnessed Anderson’s room-filling baritone, sensitive guitar playing and skillful songwriting know to be on the lookout for great things. Anderson also spent much of 2015 working on an as-yet-untitled album that’s likely to be released next year, alongside long-time local side-men and music educators Miles Vandiver and Zeb Briskovich.

MARBLE//WALL DUO This relatively new duo is comprised of pianist/violinist Nika Marble and percussionist Louis Wall. She’s a conservatory-trained concert pianist who found herself in need of a new, more improvisatory creative outlet. He’s the Native Sound audio engineer and mind behind the collaborative recording project the Texas Room. Together they plumb the improvisatory waters of acoustic drumset/piano duo, often using the piano music of the Romantic and Post-Romantic movements as vehicles for improvisation. Lately the duo has placed an especially heavy emphasis on the piano works of Chopin and Satie. With only a handful of public performances under their belts, the duo already has plans for numerous 2016 multimedia collaborations, including scoring films for Czech filmmaker Jan Svankmajer, and screenings wherein they’ll improvise a score.

MVSTERMIND While hip-hop collective MME has been a steadily growing blip on St. Louis’ musical radar for the past two years, MME member Muhammad Austin has garnered increased attention for his own music, released under the moniker Mvstermind. As Mvstermind, Austin both sings and raps his emotive lyrics — often heavily utilizing vocal processing effects for an aloof, disembodied sound — and backs them with richly textured tracks of his own creation. Most recently, Austin appeared on STL Up Late accompanied only by his laptop to perform the spare, introspective “xX Sad Boy Chronicles Xx” and the smooth-grooving, mid-tempo “Mali Moolah.” Though he is cagey with the details, Mvstermind says he’s currently planning to go back on tour this spring, in addition to putting the finishing touches on an album he hopes to have out before summer. Continued on pg 14

RIVERFRONT TIMES

DECEMBER 30, 2015-JANUARY 5, 2016

riverfronttimes.com

TATTOO REGRET?

Obliterate your past “REGERTS”! Contact us about Laser Tattoo Removal today!

314.275.7300 | www.PaddaInstitute.com Padda Institute, Center for Aesthetic and Laser Medicine 12401 Olive Boulevard, Suite 100, Creve Coeur, MO 63141

ONES TO WATCH Continued from pg 12

YOU OR ON

ND, A FRIE H T I W E, A DAT UR WITH SIT YO

TRAN MAKE

: R OWN

I N E! T N E L VA Syna So Pro. | COREY WOODRUFF

THE GORGE Join Citizens for Modern Transit on February 11 for the 2nd Annual Transit Crush. Enjoy flash mob style antics, a chance to win prizes, and a happy hour to show your Love for Transit. Bring a date, a friend, or come on your own! www.cmt-stl.org | 314.231.7272 |

Show St. Louis you are #crushingontransit

With the recent signing of both Black Fast and the Lion’s Daughter to national labels, many metal fans, musicians and record labels across the nation have zeroed in on St. Louis as fertile ground for the next big names in heavy music. One of the city’s best prospects in that arena is the brutally heavy but undeniably cerebral sound of the Gorge, comprised of vocalist/guitarist Phil Ring, guitarist Joe Bowers, drummer Jerry Mazzuca, and bassist Chris Turnbaugh (who recently replaced bassist Ryan Thompson, also of Black Fast). Collectively, the group boasts more than a decade of formal music education and more than three decades of experience as working musicians, facts that serve to shed some light on the intensely intellectual writing and expert execution that characterizes the group’s sound. Throughout 2015, the Gorge performed regularly at rock venues around the city including the Firebird, FUBAR, and the Demo — where they opened for Los Angeles prog-metal band Intronaut. The group is planning a February release for its next album, Thousand Year Fire, followed by supporting tours during the spring and summer.

SYNA SO PRO Originally from Rolla, Syrhea Conaway creates distinctive, loop-oriented music with an orchestral flair under the moniker Syna So Pro, in addition to lending her services to St. Louis rock acts Humdrum, Whoa Thunder, the Pat Sajak Assassins, and the Rick Springfield tribute band Working Class Dogs. The local-music staple had a huge year in 2015, opening for new-music ensemble Alarm Will Sound, signing with FPE Records, performing at TEDxGateway Arch for the second consecutive year and releasing Loop Talk Vol. 2, among a laundry list of other accomplishments. In addition to new recordings with Whoa Thunder and the Pat Sajak Assassins (she provides bass and vocals, and keys and vocals, respectively), Conaway plans to release two albums in 2016. At least one, she says, will be largely comprised of a cappella compositions from when she was in high school.

RIVERFRONT TIMES

DECEMBER 30, 2015-JANUARY 5, 2016

riverfronttimes.com

Emily Wallace. | ABBY GILLARDI

EMILY WALLACE Winner of this year’s RFT Music Award in the “Singer-Songwriter” category, Emily Wallace writes relatable, emotive songs in the country/ Americana vein. Aside from her own musical and visual work, Wallace stays busy lending her formidable vocal abilities to a variety of St. Louis acts including Al Holliday and the East Side Rhythm Band, Salisbury, and the Funky Butt Brass Band. Wallace says she plans to spend the next year continuing to provide backup vocals for Al Holliday and the East Side Rhythm Band and Salisbury, putting more time and energy into cultivating her visual artwork (she designed a T-shirt for honkey-tonkers the Dock Ellis Band), and working on a new album with sister Ali Ruby.

WHOA THUNDER As a member of well-known pop and rock groups Tight Pants Syndrome and Middle Class Fashion, singer, songwriter, videographer and guitarist Brian McClelland is no stranger to St. Louis music fans, largely thanks to ample (and deserved) coverage by the local music media. In addition to his musical ventures, McClelland is the founder of Blip Blap Video, the production company responsible for music videos for local acts Roundheels, Letter to Memphis and Beth Bombara, among others. In 2015 McClelland’s newest project, Whoa Thunder, finally settled on a permanent lineup and took its music on the road, in addition to playing a handful of shows at local venues including Foam, the Heavy Anchor and the Firebird. In the coming year, McClelland plans to release a collaborative song with long-time friend Matt Meyer of local punk group Ded Bugs, as well as recording the band’s first fulllength with the current lineup.

Whatever your sonic preferences, the St. Louis music scene has artists who can satisfy them. And while all of the musicians and bands we just featured have noteworthy trajectories, they’re just a small sampling of what the city has to offer music fans who are willing to seek out and support it. While love of the music itself animates any musician worthy of the title, at the end of the day, these artists will never be able to achieve their full financial or creative potential without the awareness and support of local music fans like you. So go see a show. Hell, buy the t-shirt while you’re there. St. Louis already of has plenty of great musicians making plenty of great music. What the city’s music scene needs now is for people like you to show up and support them. riverfronttimes.com

DECEMBER 30, 2015-JANUARY 5, 2016

RIVERFRONT TIMES

THROUGH DECEMBER 31

It’s Always a Party at Doc’s Harley-Davidson®! Facebook “f” Logo

CMYK / .eps

Facebook “f” Logo

STAY UP ON OUR EVENTS — DOC’S NEW YEAR’S — CELEBRATION PARTY JANUARY 16 / STARTING AT 2:00 PM Ring in 2016 in classic Doc’s style – with a Party! Join us for a bonfire, hot cocoa and apple cider, cigars by Smoking Hot Cigars, and Harley-Davidson® motorcycles.

DOC’S HARLEY-DAVIDSON

930 S. Kirkwood Rd., Kirkwood, Mo 63122

docsH-D.com • 314-965-0166 H-D ® certified service technicians

WINTER / holiday HOURS Mondays-saturdays, 10:00 am-6:00 pm Sundays, 10:00 am-4:00 pm Service dept. closed on sundays dec. 31 – open 10:00 am–3:00 pm Jan. 1 – closed New Year’s day Jan. 2 – open 10:00 am–6:00 pm Jan. 3 & 4 – Closed for inventory

FREE FILM SCREENING

Shot over a four-year period with unprecedented access, this film follows four young Polynesian men in Salt Lake City, Utah—one of the chief sources for the NFL’s influx of Pacific Islander players—striving

Wednesday

JANUARY 6

to overcome gang violence and near poverty through

6pm: Informational tables 7pm: Screening

the promise of American football.

Indie Lens Pop-Up presented by the

Missouri History Museum

Missouri History Museum and

Lindell and DeBaliviere in Forest Park

(314) 746-4599 | mohistory.org 16

RIVERFRONT TIMES

DECEMBER 30, 2015-JANUARY 5, 2016

riverfronttimes.com

Monday FEB 1 10/9c SUPPORT PROVIDED BY: ITVS, CPB, PBS, THE JOHN D. AND CATHERINE T. MACARTHUR FOUNDATION, AND WYNCOTE FOUNDATION

CMYK / .eps

CALENDAR

WEEK OF DECEMBER 30, 2015 — JANUARY 5, 2016

Welcome 2016 with Lola Van Ella’s Spectaculaire! COURTESY LOLA VAN ELLA

THURSDAY 12/31 [NEW YEAR’S EVE]

NYE Live! As everyone knows, it’s always Cardinals season in St. Louis — even when the Redbirds aren’t on the field. To ensure that your burning love of baseball stays stoked through the long winter, ring in the new year at Ballpark Village (601 Clark Avenue; www. stlballparkvillage.com). At NYE Live! you’ll be able to hang out in five different venues within the village, and check out the view of the stadium from all of them, if you wish (at least, you can try).

Plus, there will be live music from Charles Glenn, DJs, a complimentary toast at midnight and even a ball drop! There are two ticket levels for your New Year’s Eve fun: The gold package costs $75 and includes your drinks from 8 p.m. to midnight, and the diamond package will set you back $125 and net you the aforementioned drinks, plus buffet eats and access to VIP areas. — Alison Sieloff [NEW YEAR’S EVE]

Spectaculaire! Ring in 2016 with some naughtiness and bawdiness at Spectaculaire!, a New Year’s Ball presented

by Lola Van Ella and Show Me Burlesque. Now in its fifth year, this show of shows, which has dazzled local and international audiences, transforms the Casa Loma Ballroom (3354 Iowa Avenue; 314-384-2532 or www.vanellaproductions.com) into a den of debauchery filled with sexiness and sin. The night of mayhem also includes drink specials, live music and guest performances from Jeez Loueez, Bazuka Joe, Ray Gunn and the Bon Bons. Dancers, aerialists, magicians, fire-eaters, carnival games, sideshow performers, a peep show and beats from DJ Shawn Gaston round out the last party of the year. Spectaculaire! runs from 9 p.m. to 3 a.m. Tickets are $69 to $350. — Rob Levy

riverfronttimes.com

FRIDAY 01/01 [ N E W Y E A R ’ S D AY ]

City Museum If the first day of the year is indicative of the rest of the days to come, how do you think you should resolve to spend it? Lazing around, eating leftover pizza and nursing a mighty hangover, or running around, having a good time with your friends and exploring one of our city’s great treasures? For those who (wisely) choose the second option, the spectacular City Museum (750 North 16th Street; 314-231-2489 or www.citymuseum.org) is open

DECEMBER 30, 2015-JANUARY 5, 2016

Continued on pg 18

RIVERFRONT TIMES

IT’S TIME TO TELL

CALENDAR Continued from pg 17

your STORY

from 9 a.m. to midnight Friday and Saturday (January 1 and 2). Dive into the caves, slip down the slide, catch a circus performance and more — all for the low, low price of $12. And who knows? Maybe your resolutions will be easier to keep all year long after you have some good, clean fun. — Alison Sieloff [ P O P C U LT U R E ]

First Friday Mission: Impossible

CLASSES NOW FORMING IN

FICTION & POETRY FOR WINTER 2016

Are you quietly and steadily surveilling your coworkers? Do you know what’s going on in your neighborhood before it happens? Do you have a cloak and a fake mustache and a kit of gadgets always at the ready? If so, you sound like a spy in training (and like someone who needs a better outlet, to be honest) that makes you an excellent candidate to attend Mission: Impossible, the free spy-themed First Friday event at the Saint Louis Science Center (5050 Oakland Avenue; 314-289-4400 or www.slsc.org). You’ll be able to watch the evening’s namesake film starring Tom Cruise for free at 10 p.m. (tickets can be picked up beginning at 6 p.m.). Plus, you can get some comedic inspiration from episodes of Get Smart at 9 p.m., learn some Spy 101 at 6:30 and 8:30 p.m., and participate in the Celebrity Mole challenge throughout the night. Oh, and Star Wars: The Force Awakens will be playing in the OMNIMAX Theater at 6 and 8:30 p.m., in case you need to surveil that as well ($13.50 to $15.50). — Alison Sieloff

COACHING, EDITING & PROOFREADING ALSO AVAILABLE

www.stlouiswritersworkshop.com

✴ ✴

✴

FIL ✴ L SCOIVRE ✴ ✴ E!

✴

WITM H

✴

SATURDAY 01/02 [ROLLER DERBY]

JANUARY 2-3

Arch Rival Roller Girls

Sat at 7:00pm & Sun at 2:00pm Sarah Hicks, conductor Savor the tale of a determined young rat with a cultivated palate who gets an unlikely chance to do what he dreams of most—cook in a French restaurant in Paris. In a hilarious chain of events that turns the City of Light upside down, he achieves his dream with his good pal, Linguini. Bring the whole family to experience the Academy Award-winning film Ratatouille on the big screen while the beloved score by composer Michael Giacchino is performed live by the STL Symphony. MEDIA SUPPORT PROVIDED BY RIVERFRONT TIMES

314-534-1700 stlsymphony.org 18

RIVERFRONT TIMES

DECEMBER 30, 2015-JANUARY 5, 2016

The Arch Rival Roller Girls keep going strong after a decade of bumps and hits on the track. The ladies’ flat-track roller-derby team meets up with the men of the St. Louis Gatekeepers for a two-fer starting at 6:30 p.m. tonight at Midwest Sport Hockey at Queeny Park (570 Weidman Road, Ballwin; www.archrivalrollergirls.com). The men open the night, as the Central West Friends challenge the Creve Coroners. In the

riverfronttimes.com

The Harlem Globetrotters are here. back half of the night, the M-80s take on the Stunt Devils. Admission is $10 for both bouts, but free for kids ten and younger. — Paul Friswold [BASKETBALL]

Harlem Globetrotters The Harlem Globetrotters are on the road again — the Globetrotters are always on the road — celebrating 90 years of high-flying, highlight-filled basketball. The family favorites return to St. Louis for a rare basketball doubleheader at 2 and 7 p.m. today at Scottrade Center (1401 Clark Avenue; 314241-1888 or www.scottradecenter.com). While the players are all incredible athletes, they’re also gifted physical comedians capable of wringing laughs out of even the most sports-averse audience. Tickets are $22.50 to $139.50. — Paul Friswold

SUNDAY 01/03 [PERFORMING ARTS]

Ratatouille in Concert If you’re craving one last festive family get-together before Christmas

break ends, those masterful musical chefs at the St. Louis Symphony have whipped up a sure-fire recipe for success. At 7 p.m. Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday (January 2 and 3), Pixar’s Academy Award-winning film Ratatouille plays on the big screen, synchronized to a live performance of Michael Giacchino’s score by our very own Grammy Award-winning symphony. The animated film tells the tale of restaurant clean-up boy Alfredo Linguini and his friend Remy, an ambitious young rat whose sophisticated palate takes him to the top of Paris’ culinary world. Both performances are at Powell Hall (718 North Grand Boulevard; 314534-1700 or www.slso.org), and tickets are $35 to $70. — Mark Fischer

audience favorites Deborah Sharn, Kimi Short and Jeffrey M. Wright join relative newcomers Sarah Porter, Anna Skidis and Larissa White (and too many other greats to list) to sing their favorite musical theater songs at 8 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday (January 5 and 6) at the Sheldon Concert Hall (3648 Washington Boulevard; 314-534-1111 or www.newlinetheatre.com). You’ll hear everything from the cult favorites (The Robber Bridegroom) to the Broadway smashes (Kiss of the Spider Woman), with excursions into the weird (Bat Boy) and the sublime (Into the Woods). Tickets are $10. — Paul Friswold

WEDNESDAY 01/06 TUESDAY 01/05 [SHERLOCK]

Sherlock: The Abominable Bride Cap off the holiday season with a good old-fashioned murder as Benedict Cumberbatch and Martin Freeman return in Sherlock: The Abominable Bride. Presented by Fathom Events and the BBC, this one-off episode finds Holmes and Watson kicking it in a Victorian-themed whodunit filled with top hats, frock coats, steam trains and a wedding-dress-wearing ghost who haunts the streets of London. The screening also includes a guided set tour of 221B Baker Street hosted by co-writer Steven Moffat and a making-of featurette. Sherlock: The Abominable Bride screens at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday (January 5 and 6) at the Wehrenberg Des Peres 14 Cinema (12701 Manchester Road, Des Peres; 3144903 or www.fathomevents.com). Admission is $15. — Rob Levy [MUSICAL]

New Line Theatre: 25 to Life! It’s a new year, but you can never shake your past. New Line Theatre is in the midst of its 25th anniversary season, and it takes two nights to celebrate the hits of its first quarter century in 25 to Life! Long-time

[FILM]

Spirit of 76 In the year 2178 recorded history has been erased, so David Cassidy, Olivia d’Abo and Geoff Hoyle are sent back in time in an effort to retrieve the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence from 1776 America. Owing to a time machine malfunction, the three travelers have no choice but to slap on the bell bottoms and platform shoes when they find themselves in 1976 during the United States Bicentennial. The trio fail to find the founding fathers but do get an education in streaking, mood rings, pop rocks and Grand Funk Railroad. Lief Garrett, Tommy Chong and Moon Unit Zappa also appear, alongside members of Devo and Red Kross. The 1990 cult film Spirit of ’76 screens at 8 p.m. tonight at the Schlafly Bottleworks (7260 Southwest Avenue, Maplewood; 314-241-2337; www. webster.edu/film-series) as part of the Strange Brew series. Tickets are $5. — Mark Fischer Planning an event, exhibiting your art or putting on a play? Let us know and we’ll include it in the Night & Day section or publish a listing in the online calendar — for free! Send details via e-mail (calendar@ riverfronttimes.com), fax (314-754-6416) or mail (6358 Delmar Boulevard, Suite 200, St. Louis, MO 63130, attn: Calendar). Include the date, time, price, contact information and location (including ZIP code). Please submit information three weeks prior to the date of your event. No telephone submissions will be accepted. Find more events online at www.riverfronttimes.com.

riverfronttimes.com

DECEMBER 30, 2015-JANUARY 5, 2016

RIVERFRONT TIMES

Enjoy the ultimate evening out. Then stay the night.

New Year’s Eve at Top of the Met [ H O L I D AY S & S E A S O N A L ]

Ring in the new year December 31, 7:30 p.m.-1:30 a.m., at Hyatt Regency St. Louis at The Arch with the Ultimate New Year’s Eve Party, featuring Dr. Zhivegas, Superjam and DJ Jamie Lambert, plus Curt & Nina from the NOW 96.3 morning show. Enjoy food stations, open bar, champagne toast and confetti drop at midnight. The Ultimate NYE Standard Room Package, including overnight stay and two party tickets, starts at $369. The Ultimate NYE VIP Room Package adds VIP seating, premium bar and dedicated cocktail service and starts at $459. Party tickets only start at $129 ($175 for VIP) and are available at eventbrite.com. To book or for more information, call 314 342 4688 or visit stlouisarch.hyatt.com.

HYATT REGENCY ST. LOUIS AT THE ARCH

315 Chestnut Street St. Louis, Missouri, USA, 63102

Ultimate New Year’s Eve package available at Hyatt Regency St. Louis at The Arch only. Package must be prepaid at time of booking and deposit is non-refundable after 12/14/2015. Must be at least 21 years of age to receive alcoholic beverages. For complete terms and conditions, visit stlouisarch.hyatt.com. The trademarks HYATT®, Hyatt Regency® and related marks are trademarks of Hyatt Corporation. ©2015 Hyatt Corporation. All rights reserved.

New Year’s Eve Celebration Ring in 2016 with a night of dinner, dancing and fireworks — then it’s breakfast at midnight. The “Dinner and Entertainment” package ($65 per person) includes appetizers, a dinner buffet, the breakfast at midnight buffet and a Champagne toast. The “Family Room” package ($13-$18) includes a dinner buffet, games, movies and more. Reservations are required. Thu., Dec. 31, 6:30 p.m.-12:30 a.m. For more, call 636-928-3366 ext. 0, or visit information@innsbrook-resort. com. Innsbrook Resort, 1 Aspen Lake Dr., Wright City.

New Year’s Eve at Boogaloo STLRS5271_HR St Louis NYE Party RFT Quarter Pg Ad.indd 1

11/16/2015 4:32:39 PM

Party with Boogaloo to end your year. There’s a four-course dinner buffet with crab-stuffed beef tenderloin and a Champagne toast at midnight. A DJ spins from 10 p.m. to 1 a.m., and shot and drink specials are on all night. Thu., Dec. 31, $40. Boogaloo, 7344 Manchester Road, Maplewood; 314645-4803.

New Year’s Eve at Oz Party until 6 a.m. with DJs in each room, a huge balloon drop at midnight and a Champagne toast. Bottle service reservations available. Call 618-274-1464. Thu., Dec. 31, 9 p.m., $10. Oz Nightclub, 300 Monsanto Ave., Sauget, Illinois; 618274-1464.

New Year’s Eve at the Plaza Hotel Dance in the new year with three ballrooms of bands and fun. Choose from four packages that range from a four-hour open bar all the way up to an all-inclusive package complete with dinner, overnight accommodations and a New Year’s Day brunch — with late checkout to boot. All four options include a Champagne toast with hats and noisemakers. Call 314726-5400 for reservations. Thu., Dec. 31, 9 p.m.-1 a.m., $65-$170 per person. Crowne Plaza Hotel, 7750 Carondelet Ave., Clayton; 314-7265400.

RIVERFRONT TIMES

DECEMBER 30, 2015-JANUARY 5, 2016

riverfronttimes.com

It’s a night of dinner and dancing with Everyday People at Top of the Met on New Year’s Eve. The four-course dinner New Year’s Eve. The four-course dinner includes spring salad, pasta, beef conti, swordfish and dessert. No coupons or gift certificates, and reservations via credit card only are required. Doors are at 7:30. Call 314-421-0555 or email Info@Kemolls.com. Thu., Dec. 31, 8 p.m.-12:30 a.m., $100 per person plus tax. Kemoll’s Italian Restaurant, 211 N. Broadway.

New Year’s Eve Cruise Celebrate the new year while cruising on the river. Enjoy a full sit-down dinner with views of the skyline, an open bar, dancing, party favors and a live DJ, plus a midnight toast. Call 877982-1410 for reservations. Thu., Dec. 31, 9 p.m.-1 a.m., $85. Gateway Arch Riverboats, 11 N. 4th St.

NYE 3D featuring FTAMPA Get ready for NYE 3D, when the Nightclub at Ameristar Casino is transformed into a 3-D wonderland, complete with 3-D video mapping DJ booths, holograms and a 3-D photo booth. Each guest receives a custom pair of 3-D glasses upon arrival. FTAMPA, Brazil’s No. 1 DJ, makes his St. Louis headliner debut. Thu., Dec. 31, 9 p.m.-3 a.m., $30-$40. Email kerry@ partystarevents.com or visit flavorus. com/nye3d for more information. Ameristar Casino, 1 Ameristar Blvd., St. Charles; 636-949-7777.

NYE Extravaganza: Bubbles, Broads & Booze Mad Art starts the new year with a drag show starring Adria Andrews, Siren, Jodi Santana and Miss Gay Missouri 2012, Michelle McCausland. There will also be an appetizer buffet, and the cash bar will be open with Champagne and drink specials all night. Visit www.brownpapertickets.com/ event/2471766 for tickets. Thu., Dec. 31, 9 p.m., $25. Mad Art Gallery, 2727 S. 12th St.; 314-771-8230.

NYE Live Celebrate New Year’s Eve with live music and DJs. Choose from two packages — each grants access to five different venues. The “Gold Package” ($75) is an all-inclusive premium drink package (8p.m.-midnight) with draft beer, house wine and premium well spirits, and midnight champagne toast. The “Diamond Package” ($125) includes everything in the “Gold Package,” in addition to a VIP buffet from 7-10 p.m. and a dedicated VIP space. Thu., Dec. 31, 7 p.m.-3 a.m., $75-$125. Visit www.stlballparkvillage.com/entertainment/event/7015 for more information. Ballpark Village, 601 Clark Ave.; 314-345-9481.

NYE Metal Bash Make 2016 metal with performances by Article III, Awaiting the Gallows, Nethersphere and Spirit of Chaos, plus free Champagne at midnight. Thu., Dec. 31, 8 p.m., $10-$12. Fubar, 3108 Locust St.; 314-289-9050.

Ozzie’s New Year’s Eve Party Party at Ozzie’s Sports Bar & Grill. Dance to the sounds of DJ St. Chuck and enjoy party favors and light snacks, plus a celebration at midnight. Call 314-881-7595 for more information. Thu., Dec. 31, 10 p.m.-2 a.m., $35 per person or $60 per couple. Lumière Place Casino & Hotel, 999 N. Second St.; 314-881-7777.

Retreat’s New Year’s Eve Dinner

games, prizes, a sideshow tent and more, all backed by Lola van Ella and the Van Ella Band, Jeez Loueez, Bazuka Joe, Ray Gunn, Lady Jack and many, many more! Thu., Dec. 31, 9 p.m.-3 a.m., $69-$350. Call 314-384-2532 or visit www.brownpapertickets.com/ event/2412388. Casa Loma Ballroom, 3354 Iowa Ave.

Three Sixty New Year’s Eve Bash Count down to 2016 on Three Sixty’s rooftop bar with celebratory cuisine, cocktails and a Champagne toast. There’s live music by DJ Steve Meyer and a ball drop on the east and west sides of the rooftop. Reservations are required, and bottle service is also available (there is a $110 food and beverage minimum). Call 314-6418842 to book space. Thu., Dec. 31, 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Hilton St. Louis at the Ballpark, 1 S. Broadway; 314-421-1776.

Ultimate New Year’s Eve Party The Ultimate New Year’s Eve Party features an incredible lineup of live music including Dr. Zhivegas, Superjam and Curt & Nina from NOW 96.3. There will be an open bar all night, food stations, party favors, a Champagne toast and confetti drop at midnight. For more information call 314-342-4688. Thu., Dec. 31, 7:30 p.m.-1:30 a.m. Hyatt Regency St. Louis at the Arch, 315 Chestnut St.

Argosy’s New Year’s Eve

Welcome the new year with a fivecourse menu that includes optional beverage pairings. Thu., Dec. 31, 5-8 p.m., $45 per person, Contact travis@ treatreatgastropub.com for reservations. Retreat Gastropub, 2 N. Sarah St.; 314-261-4497.

Take a shot at winning $216 in free SlotPlay every 15 minutes from 5 to 9:30 p.m. At 10 p.m. one lucky player wins $2,016. Add a pound of crab legs to your dinner for just $8.95 at the Captain’s Table buffet from 4-9 p.m. Thu., Dec. 31, 4 p.m. Argosy Casino - Alton, One Piasa St., Alton, 618-474-7500.

Russo’s NYE BASH

Flying Saucer New Year’s Eve

Celebrate the New Year with Russo’s Catering at Spazio Westport! It will feature a six-hour full open premium bar, passed appetizers, a dinner buffet with hand-carved entrées, dessert station, snacks and Champagne. Overnight accommodations are available. Thu., Dec. 31, 7 p.m.-1 a.m., $90 per person, $95 per hotel room (both include tax), 314-576-0400. Email emily@russosgourmet.com or visit https:// russosgourmet.com/nye for more information. Spazio at West Port, 12031 Lackland Road, Maryland Heights.

Come party with Flying Saucer this year. We’ll have a live DJ and giveaways, plus a Champagne toast at midnight. Bar reservations for just $20 a person. Thu., Dec. 31, 7 p.m. Flying Saucer Draught Emporium, 900 Spruce St., St. Louis, 314-932-1456.

Spectaculaire: A Grand New Year’s Ball! Spectaculaire is back for its sixth year, featuring showgirls and -boys, aerialists, fire breathers, burlesque and ensemble acts. Plus, there’s an epic midnight countdown, a Champagne toast, late-night buffet, carnival

Grapeseed’s New Year’s Eve Enjoy great food and libations from our regular menu, or try one of our chefinspired specials. Live music by Brian Vaccaro and Ryan Marquez. Call 314925-8525 for reservations. Thu., Dec. 31. Grapeseed, 5400 Nottingham Ave.; 314-925-8525.

Guido’s New Year’s Eve Avoid amateur night and enjoy our special menu and relaxing atmostphere. We’re open New Year’s Day too. Thu., Dec. 31. Guido’s Pizzeria & Tapas, 5046 Shaw Ave.; 314-771-4900.

riverfronttimes.com

Dinner Open Premium Bar Burlesque Show Champagne Toast D.J. Dance Party Reserved Table Seating Multiple Pricing Options

Reservations At: 314-436-7000 www.TheBoomBoomRoomSTL.com

DECEMBER 30, 2015-JANUARY 5, 2016

RIVERFRONT TIMES

FILM

Marie Ruchat in Goodbye to Language. | KINO LORBER INC.

9 from ’15 Robert Hunt does the math to find the best films of this year Written by

ROBERT HUNT

ilm criticism, it has been argued, is dead. The truth is that it’s more like Schrödinger’s cat, hidden away somewhere. It might be dead or alive but we really don’t know — because who’s got time to check on it when we have Facebook and Twitter generating instant opinions? And the studios couldn’t be happier. Between social media and the fanboy culture that gushes over any and every bone the publicity departments throw them, the commercial-film apparatus has an outlet so compliant and conformist that it makes Photoplay and the fan magazines of the 1930s look like a seminar taught by André Bazin, Sergei Eisenstein

RIVERFRONT TIMES

and Manny Farber. We are in an age where discussion and analysis has been replaced by increasingly irrelevant lists (“25 facts that will completely change the way you look at Pretty in Pink! Warning: Contains Spoilers!!”), while a self-proclaimed geek culture takes pride in its refined, esoteric taste yet somehow ends up championing the same comic-book films that are being seen by billions of people from here to Mongolia. Nonetheless, there were some high spots in a year dominated largely by the uninspired. What follows makes no claim to be a complete guide to the films of 2015, or even the absolute best of the year; these are just a few of the points of interest that fought their way through an unfortunately ordinary cinematic landscape.

GOODBYE TO LANGUAGE (Jean-Luc Godard)

Too ambitious to fit into an ordinary ranking, Godard’s 3-D experiment made a belated ap-

DECEMBER 30, 2015-JANUARY 5, 2016

pearance at the St. Louis International Film Festival almost a year after being named best film of 2014 by the National Society of Film Critics. It’s an audacious, difficult film — in other words, typical late Godard — but it’s also a breakthrough, an attempt to create a completely new visual language.

MAPS TO THE STARS CLOUDS OF SILS MARIA (Olivier Assayas) (David Cronenberg)

What a great double feature this would make: Two films about middle-aged actresses trying to recapture past glories and survive in a culture that values youth over experience. Assayas’ film was a thoughtful piece with great performances from Juliette Binoche and Kristen Stewart. Cronenberg’s film was tossed out into theaters almost unannounced, as if the distributor was afraid to be associated with it, despite

riverfronttimes.com

Julianne Moore having won an Academy Award a week earlier. You could almost understand their nervousness; it’s a satiric portrait of fame and celebrity culture that wasn’t afraid to go into very dark territory. You’ll never listen to “Na Na Hey Hey (Kiss Him Goodbye)” the same way.

INSIDE OUT

(Pete Docter) Pixar has a reputation for technological innovation, but Inside Out brought out the real strengths of the studio’s best previous films, the Toy Story series: Inventive but believable characters with real, human emotions. I’ve heard people suggest that it’s too sophisticated for young children, but that’s selling them short. Most films aimed at younger viewers patronize them with a false sense of maturity (i.e., fart jokes); Inside Out is the rare one that respects and acknowledges their interior lives.

Mia Wasikowska in Crimson Peak. | UNIVERSAL PICTURES

CRIMSON PEAK (Guillermo del Toro)

Mistakenly promoted as a horror movie, Crimson Peak was actually a visually rich recreation of gothic fiction in the tradition of the Brontës, aided by stunning sets and a strong performance by Mia Wasikowska. Yes, there are ghosts and old creaky mansions and violence, but the film is stronger on ambiance than shock. A return to form for a filmmaker whose work has been uneven since Pan’s Labyrinth.

AMY (Asif Kapadia) LISTEN TO ME MARLON (Stevan Riley)

Amy and Marlon are both celebrity biographies, but what sets them above other documentaries in what has been an exceptional year for non-fiction films (The Art of Seeing, The Best of Enemies, The Salt of the Earth, The Wolfpack, all worth attention) is the startling intimacy with which both films approach their subjects. The Brando film examines the actor’s fame through his own point of view, thanks to the discovery of tape recordings he made in his later years, while Amy uses home videos — the narcissism of our time is a goldmine for future documentarians — to get disturbingly close to troubled singer Amy Winehouse during both her meteoric rise and even more rapid fall.

LOVE AND MERCY (Bill Pohlad)

It helps to be a Brian Wilson fan, but this biographical drama focuses on Wilson’s history of mental illness during two different periods of his life (Paul Dano and John Cusack play young and middle-aged Brian, respectively), while using an exceptional sound design and musical score (by Atticus Ross) to capture the intricacies and inspiration of his one-of-a-kind sound.

REVIVALS

When I saw Paul Grimault’s 1953 animated feature The King and the Mockingbird I was shocked — not just by the quality of the film, but by the idea that such a masterpiece could have remained almost completely unrecognized for more than half a century. It has long been assumed since the days of the first video-rental stores that we have access to the entirety of film history; if it’s worth seeing, surely it must be on Netflix (or Redbox or Hulu or Prime or Krackle or Fandor). In reality there are still hundreds of unknown and neglected films, films that have fallen through the cracks of the cable/home-video establishment through accident, neglect or legal disputes. 2015 saw the re-emergence of several of these, such as Orson Welles’ early experiment at combining film and theater, Too Much

Johnson, which was believed to be lost for more than 75 years, but now available online at filmpreservation.org. Then there was Les Blank’s documentary, A Poem is a Naked Person, first reviewed in these pages more than thirty years ago, after its subject, musician Leon Russell, finally dropped his objections to it. Shirley Clarke’s 1967 Portrait of Jason was painstakingly restored as part of Milestone Film’s ongoing Project Shirley and was instantly recognized as a landmark in the history of American gay culture. Jacques Rivette’s thirteenhour-long Out 1, rarely seen anywhere, is currently in release after 44 years of obscurity (we’ll have a local screening of his re-edited version — a mere four hours — in a few months), while another touring retrospective brings the major works of Wim Wenders back to theaters after three decades of tangled rights. Dennis Hopper’s insane/brilliant The Last Movie remains difficult to find in the U.S., but The American Dreamer, a 1971 documentary capturing Hopper as he edited that mad disaster, has resurfaced. Also of note, these films that were good enough but far from perfect: Straight Outta Compton (especially for O’Shea Jackson’s performance as his own father), Mad Max: Fury Road (yeah, it was good, but not that good), and the retro-horror trilogy of The Duke of Burgundy, Queen of Earth and It Follows. n

riverfronttimes.com

DECEMBER 30, 2015-JANUARY 5, 2016

RIVERFRONT TIMES

THREEKINGSPUB .COM

CAFE

The bone-in pork chop at Público, this year’s best new restaurant. | MABEL SUEN

The Best of What’s Around Our critic’s picks for the 10 best restaurants of 2015 have one thing in common: excellence Written by

CHERYL BAEHR

he highlights of St. Louis’ 2015 dining scene have no obvious common thread. We feasted on Korean-style barbecue, Texas-style tacos and impromptu tasting menus served out of an abandoned Taco Bell by a Chinese chef. Last year, comfort food clearly dominated menus — but not so 2015.

Which may be what ends up defining the year after all. Granted, 2015 saw a coop full of new fried-chicken restaurants, but for the most part, chefs seemed to shake off their fascination with homey, Southern-style cooking. Though every restaurant on this list of the year’s ten best new openings serves “comfort food” of a sort, they do so in ways that are personal rather than trendy or prescriptive. Chef Ma’s steaming pot of fish stew only is like mac & cheese in that it reminds him of home. The tilt away from comfort-food clichés also seems to signal the return of the classic American bistro, with no restaurant showing why it deserves a resurgence better than J. McArthur’s. Perhaps the pendulum between the modernist cuisine of the early aughts and the “grandma fare” of the last two years is finally settling into that sweet spot somewhere in the middle, where menus are less about trends and more about classic flavors.

Then again, the forecast of hotly anticipated 2016 openings suggests we’ll soon be drowning ourselves in ramen. Happy new year!

1.6679PÚBLICO Delmar Blvd., University

City; 314-833-5780 Mike Randolph’s reputation certainly precedes him. The self-described restless chef opens and closes restaurants with the frequency and duration of a Taylor Swift relationship. The antics are certainly a point of discussion, but they tend to obscure an important fact: Mike Randolph is, unequivocally, a genius. His list of hits (was there ever a miss?) includes restaurants that define genres — Half & Half for breakfast, the Good Pie for Neapolitan pizza. And nowhere does he shine brighter than at his Latin American-inspired Público. St. Louis hasn’t seen a restaurant that elevates this style of cooking to the level that’s on display at Público.

riverfronttimes.com

Really, the only comparison is something along the lines of Rick Bayless’ revered Topolobampo in Chicago. Everything about Público is a revelation: the pinto beans slow cooked with lamb drippings and accented with mint, arepas that lie somewhere between castiron-skillet cornbread and homemade tortillas, a bone-in pork chop drenched in peach and habanero brown butter that melts in your mouth like sashimi. From start to finish, Público is perfection and proof that Randolph is the chef to watch in the St. Louis dining scene.

2.7322REEDS AMERICAN TABLE Manchester Ave.,

Maplewood; 314-899-9821 Reeds American Table is one of the best restaurants to open in 2015. In other news, the sun rose today in the east and two plus two equals four. There was no question this place was destined to be an

DECEMBER 30, 2015-JANUARY 5, 2016

Continued on pg 26

RIVERFRONT TIMES

ZEN Thai and Japanese Cuisine 314.842.0307 Dine-in

RSVP

Carry out

Moonstone Plum Sake !!! zenstl.com 9250 Watson Road Crestwood, MO 63126

6665 Delmar Blvd #100a, St. Louis, MO 63130

314.925.8452 SeoulQSTL.com

Seared tuna with smoked eggplant caponata from Randolfi’s. | MABEL SUEN

BEST RESTAURANTS Continued from pg 25

The bone-in pork chop at Público, this year’s best new restaurant. | MABEL SUEN Really, the only comparison is something along the lines of Rick Bayless’ revered Topolobampo in Chicago. Everything about Público is a revelation: the pinto beans slow cooked with lamb drippings and accented with mint, arepas that lie somewhere between castiron-skillet cornbread and homemade tortillas, a bone-in pork chop drenched in peach and ha@TwinOakSTL brown butter that melts 1201 Strassner Dr, Brentwood, MObanero 63144 • 314.644.2772 • twinoakwoodfired.com in your mouth like sashimi. From start to finish, Público is perfection and proof that Randolph is the chef to watch in the St. Louis dining scene.

START A FIRE IN 2016

2.7322REEDS AMERICAN TABLE Manchester Ave.,

RIVERFRONT TIMES

DECEMBER 30, 2015-JANUARY 5, 2016

overwhelming success. Matthew Daughaday, who earned accolades as the executive chef at Taste, heads a dream team that includes wine genius Andrey Ivanov, pastry chef Summer Wright and general manager Nicki Ball — all of whom boast résumés that could singlehandedly carry a restaurant. It’s a “shock and awe” level of firepower that could quickly devolve into an intimidating experience. Instead, Daughaday and Co. have gone out of their way to create a welcoming atmosphere that makes you feel like a guest in someone’s home — a home where the best beef cheeks you’ll ever eat in your life are served over pillow-soft focaccia and paired with a $7 glass of house wine that rivals the town’s more expensive pours.

3.20 BEAST CRAFT BBQ Belt Avenue West, Belleville,

Illinois; 618-257-9000 If you’re even half as sick of reading about barbecue as I am of writing about it, you’ll understand why I almost passed on reviewing Beast Craft BBQ. Was there anything left to be said? Yes. Yes there was. Beast Craft BBQ’s pork steak is the single best piece of barbecued meat you will eat in the region (I’m looking at you, Kansas City). Remove any thoughts of the thin, Maull’s-covered pork steaks you scarf down with Busch beer and a game of washers. This (ahem) beast of a steak is more like a Delmonico rib eye, and it could just as easily be at home on the menu of an

riverfronttimes.com

expensive chop house. A mild spice rub mingles with fat and char, forming a mouth-watering glaze on what is basically a composite of pulled pork that is so tender, you’ll be mocked if you look for a knife. Pitmaster David Sandusky and crew prove that no matter how saturated a market is, there is always room for excellence.

4.6665RANDOLFI’S Delmar Blvd., University

City; 314-899-9221 The Year of Mike Randolph continues with Randolfi’s, his homage to the red-and-white-checked tablecloth dining that dominated the Italian restaurant scene in the 1970s and ’80s. Randolph insists he is running an approachable, family-friendly dining establishment at Randolfi’s — and he is, inasmuch as you can explain to your seven-year-old that sweetbreads are not a type of doughnut. Really, Randolfi’s is more evocative than a literal throwback. Veal parmesan is there, but it presents as sweetbreads tossed in tart tomato sauce with funky cheese. Oysters Rockefeller is replaced with “Oysters Randolfi,” with prosciutto in place of bacon, fennel in place of Pernod. You’ll find the accessible stuff too, like spaghetti and meatballs, but it is elevated so far past the “red or white sauce” routine that dominates Midwestern Italian dining that it comes off as much more sophisticated. And for those who lamented the Good Pie closing to make room for Randolfi’s, rest assured — the pizza is still there, and it is every bit as tasty. Continued on pg 28

ST. LOUIS’ ULTIMATE SPORTS BAR Exceptional food, craft beers & spirits

riverfronttimes.com

DECEMBER 30, 2015-JANUARY 5, 2016

RIVERFRONT TIMES

8.1629UNION LOAFERS Tower Grove Ave.; 314-833-6111

Union Loafers’ ham and cheese on rye. | MABEL SUEN

BEST RESTAURANTS Continued from pg 26

5.3500J MCARTHUR’S Watson Road; 314-353-9463

What’s most refreshing about J McArthur ’s — aside from the impeccable hospitality on display — is that it shows how a well-executed American bistro can still be relevant in today’s dining climate. Over the past few hyper-specialized, food-obsessed years, the type of solid, seasonal American cuisine on display at this south-city gem seemed to have gone out of fashion, but chef Ben McArthur is bringing it back by focusing on classic flavors and impeccable preparations. He reminds us why chefs began pairing butternut squash with scallops or sweet potatoes with pork. After all, those combinations bring out the best of both components. Yet he does so even while honoring today’s ethos — a utilization of local ingredients, a commitment to seasonality. He’s not breaking the mold here. Instead, he reminds us why it was forged in the first place.

6.2336CHEF MA’S CHINESE GOURMET Woodson Road, Overland; 314-

395-8797 Who would have thought that a former Taco Bell in the Middle of Overland would house one of the year’s most exciting concepts? At first glance, Chef Ma’s Chinese 28

RIVERFRONT TIMES

DECEMBER 30, 2015-JANUARY 5, 2016

Gourmet could be mistaken for just another Americanized Chinese restaurant. Inside this bare-bones spot, however, you’ll find a bastion of authentic Chinese cooking personally prepared and served by a veteran chef who has cooked all over Asia. Ma’s specialty is his impromptu tasting menu — a treat he is eager to serve so long as you are willing to let him run the show. Doing so opens the door to a feast filled with pumpkin shrimp, twicecooked pork and a fish stew filled with exotic vegetables. Sure, you’ll find the other stuff too — the Mongolian beef, the crab Rangoon — and it’s all done impeccably and from scratch. But really, there is only one way to go at Chef Ma’s: Let him take the lead.

7.3108SOUTHERN Olive Street; 314-531-4668

The “Clucking Hot” fried chicken at Rick Lewis’ midtown spot Southern starts out with a tingly burn on the lips. It’s mildly sweet, and the chicken it coats is so juicy and crisp you don’t notice the heat creeping up on you. Beads of sweat start to form, but you are so enraptured by the nuance of flavors not typically present in such spicy food that you don’t realize what’s happening. By the time the burn wallops you with a shocking blow, you are so hooked you don’t care. Is this an abusive culinary relationship? Probably, but it’s one you hope will never ends.

riverfronttimes.com

Man cannot live by bread alone, but Union Loafers sure makes you want to try. The Botanical Heights café and bakery showcases the bread making prowess of Ted Wilson, best known for his time spent perfecting the pizza dough at the Good Pie. There is much more to Union Loaders than its bread, though. Brian Lagerstrom, formerly of Niche, has crafted a simple menu that uses Wilson’s naturally fermented bread as a canvass for everything from roasted pork to a shockingly good PB&J. General manager Sean Netzer says that the trio wasn’t looking to do anything too far out — just simple food that they love to eat. Clearly, they are not alone.

9.6665SEOUL Q Delmar Blvd. #100A, Univer-

sity City; 314-925-8452 Korean barbecue had its St. Louis breakthrough moment this year with the opening of Seoul Q. Owned by David Choi of Seoul Taco fame, the restaurant makes it clear why Korean barbecue has been so hot on the coasts — and makes us more than a little irked that it took so long to get here. The restaurant offers appetizers and hot pots, but there’s no question that the reason to go here is to sample the tabletopstyle cooking — especially those “LA-Style” short ribs which are the restaurant’s version of the glorious galbi. Korean food is decidedly ontrend, but Seoul Q makes us hope this is no passing fad.

10. TACO CIRCUS 4258 Schiller Place; 314-808-2050

People must have looked at Christian Ethridge and Mikey Carrasco like they were crazy when they packed up and left boomtown Austin, Texas, for St. Louis with the goal of opening a Tex-Mex taco joint. Now, as people line up to get a taste of their homemade breakfast tacos, they’re getting the last laugh. The brightly colored Bevo Mill spot is cheap and fast, but Ethridge and Carrasco approach their food as if they were cooking in a fine-dining restaurant. Sausage is homemade, meat is locally sourced and humanely raised, and everything is made to order right in front of you. The pair wanted to open a place that was a love song to the taco joints of their youth, and we n are happy to sing along.

Authentic MexicAn Food, Beer, And MArgAritAs!

happy hour specials! monday-friday 3-6pm $2.50 domestic beer & Well drinks 1/2 off select appetizers

live music 7 days a week. 365 days a year. FREE SHUTTLE TO ALL RAMS & BLUES GAMES Visit 1860Saloon.com for music schedule and special event calendar

1860 S. 9 TH STREET FA M O U

2817 cherokee st. st. Louis, Mo 63118 314.762.0691 onco.coM www.tAqueriAeLBr

S FRIED CHICKEN

$9 Chicken Dinner Special on Saturdays Great Vegetarian Options too!

Good Drinks, Great Prices 6400 Oakland Ave, St. Louis, MO 63139 (314) 647-7287

peelpizza.com riverfronttimes.com

DECEMBER 30, 2015-JANUARY 5, 2016

RIVERFRONT TIMES

SHORT ORDERS

[ C H E F C H AT ]

[NEWS]

Ashley Shelton on Loving Imo’s – and Shaping Pastaria

HOW HIRO BECAME A TEST KITCHEN Written by

CHERYL BAEHR

and we ended up doing our interview when he was in Florence researching Pastaria,” Shelton says. “I was offered the job there in Florence — oddly, over the worst meal I’d probably ever had in Italy.” Shelton worked her way up from line cook to executive chef at Pastaria, where she is able to bring a bit of the culture she experienced in Florence to St. Louis. “Everything is about food there. They go home for lunch, and they have aperitivo before dinner. Food and wine is essential to everything they do,” Shelton explains. “But it’s also much simpler than we sometimes think it is. I try to think about that when I am coming up with dishes. I close my eyes and ask myself if I can imagine eating it in one of my favorite restaurants in Italy. It’s important for it to be as simple and true as what I felt there.” Shelton took a break from running one of the city’s busiest kitch-

hree years ago, Bernie Lee of Hiro Asian Kitchen (1405 Washington Avenue, 314241-4476) was getting ready to open his first restaurant venture, a Malaysian-influenced place unlike anything St. Louis had ever seen. He doubted himself until his mom gave him some pointed advice: Show them what you can do. Now, spurred on by the success of his almost-three-year-old spot, Lee is giving that same guidance to aspiring restaurateurs. And it’s not just words. Over the course of 2015, Lee has transformed Hiro from a restaurant to a test kitchen for up-and-comers through pop-up dinners and menu takeovers. “Malou [Perez-Nievera] was the first person we invited to do a dinner,” Lee explains. “She was a guest at a pop-up dinner we did at Hammer & Hand Imports. We got to talking and exchanged numbers. She told me that having a restaurant of her own was a dream of hers, but that her only experience was cooking out of her house for friends. I told her, ‘Why don’t you do a Filipino night at Hiro sometime so you can see what it takes to work in a professional kitchen?’ That way, she could see what it would be like to run her own restaurant.” For Lee, it goes both ways. He’s using his position as a successful restaurant owner to help others realize their dreams — or, for others, to give them a reality check. “So many people think that just because they know how to cook they should open a restaurant,” says Lee. “They don’t understand everything that goes into it. So I let them come in and basically run the kitchen for the night so they can really get a feel for it. It’s like a testing ground.” Lee decides who to make offers to based on personal relation-

Continued on pg 32

Written by

CHERYL BAEHR

shley Shelton of Pastaria (7734 Forsyth Boulevard, Clayton; 314-862-6603) was fourteen when her mom passed away, and she turned to cooking as a way of staying connected. “My mom was a fantastic cook,” Shelton explains. “Not a restaurant cook — she was a home-cooking mom, and I was always with her in the kitchen. When I was fifteen or sixteen and trying to figure out what to do with my life, there was no doubt: I had to cook.” Shelton’s family was supportive of her career path inasmuch as she could prove to them that she was serious. They’d agree to culinary school on one condition — that she get a restaurant job first to make sure she knew what she was getting into. “I pounded the pavement all around the [Chesterfield] Valley trying to find a job,” Shelton recalls. “Finally, I got to Annie Gunn’s. Lou was the only one who would take me.” Lou Rook, Annie Gunn’s esteemed chef, took Shelton under his wings and taught her the ins and outs of the business. When she graduated from high school, she was certain she wanted to go to culinary school, so Rook wrote a recommendation for his alma mater, the Culinary Institute of America in New York. She enrolled in the program and was well into her studies when she had a revelation. “It was bucatini all’amatriciana,” remembers Shelton. “I was taking

RIVERFRONT TIMES

Ashley Shelton, executive chef at Pastaria. | GREG RANNELLS

a class called Cuisines of the Mediterranean. We made this dish, and I just fell in love. All of the flavors just came together, and it sung to me. The tomatoes — they are my favorite ingredient to cook with — the guanciale — using another cured pork besides bacon was a revelation, and it spoke to my interest in whole-animal utilization. There’s just a little bit of spice from Thai chile, and the noodles are hollow. It’s just perfect. I had it and knew that this was the sort of food I wanted to cook for the rest of my life.” Shelton enrolled in a studyabroad program and spent nine months in Florence cooking in a professional kitchen and learning everything she could about Italian food culture. While there, she heard that Gerard Craft was gearing up to open a new Italian concept, Pastaria, and knew she had to be a part of it. “I emailed Gerard my résumé,

DECEMBER 30, 2015-JANUARY 5, 2016

riverfronttimes.com

Buy one lunch entree get $3 off Second

, Fun Food, Happy People ! Great Drinks

Valid at Washington Ave. location only 1901 Washington Ave, St. Louis, MO 63103 (314) 241-1557

106 main st. • edwardsville, il 618.307.4830 www.clevelandheath.com

Fresh Pressed Sandwiches Homemade Soups Wood Fire Pizza Local Beer • Local Wine Ice Cream • Snacks

Thank you, St. Louis! BEST COMFORT FOOD - Reader’s Choice 2015

BEST DELI/SANDWICH SHOP - Editor’s Pick 2015

TOWER GROVE EAST Open 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. 3101 Arsenal

7344 Manchester Boogaloostl.com 314-645-4803

OPEN AT 11:30am Tuesday-Friday SERVING:

Lobster Rolls Burgers Mixed Green Salad French Onion Soup

IS YOUR MOUTH WATERING YET? $1.50 OYSTER HAPPY HOUR! Mon-Fri 3-6 pm

Thank you, St. Louis! BEST BARBEQUE - Reader’s Choice 2015

5 AREA LOCATIONS

OLIVETTE • ST. CHARLES • WINGHAVEN • “44” VALLEY PARK • WASHINGTON

threeflagstavern.com • 4940 Southwest Ave • (314) 669-9222 riverfronttimes.com

coming soon DOWNTOWN Visit SugarfireSmokehouse.com for more info

DECEMBER 30, 2015-JANUARY 5, 2016

RIVERFRONT TIMES

ASHLEY SHELTON Continued from pg 30

[NEWS]

HOW HIRO BECAME A TEST KITCHEN Written by

CHERYL BAEHR

hree years ago, Bernie Lee of Hiro Asian Kitchen (1405 Washington Avenue, 314241-4476) was getting ready to open his first restaurant venture, a Malaysian-influenced place unlike anything St. Louis had ever seen. He doubted himself until his mom gave him some pointed advice: Show them what you can do. Now, spurred on by the success of his almost-three-year-old spot, Lee is giving that same guidance to aspiring restaurateurs. And it’s not just words. Over the course of 2015, Lee has transformed Hiro from a restaurant to a test kitchen for up-and-comers through pop-up dinners and menu takeovers. “Malou [Perez-Nievera] was the first person we invited to do a dinner,” Lee explains. “She was a guest at a pop-up dinner we did at Hammer & Hand Imports. We got to talking and exchanged numbers. She told me that having a restaurant of her own was a dream of hers, but that her only experience was cooking out of her house for friends. I told her, ‘Why 1/2 PRICE PIZZAS don’t you do a Filipino night at Hiro sometime so you can what it DURING THEsee BLUES GAMES takes to work in a professional kitchen?’ That way, she could see what it would be like to run her own restaurant.” For Lee, it goes both ways. He’s using his position as a successful restaurant owner 900 to help BARTONothers ST. realize their dreams for oth(CORNER OF— 9TH or, & BARTON IN SOULARD) ers, to give them a reality check. “So many people think that just because they know how to cookAM MON-SAT: 11 -1:30 AM they should open a restaurant,” SUN: 3 PM -12 AM says Lee. “They don’t understand everything that goes into it.LATE So I let KITCHEN HOURS NIGHT MENU them come in and basically run the 11 PM -12 AM AM PM MON-SAT: 11 -11 MON-SAT: kitchen for SUN: the night re-10 PM -11 PM 3 PM -10 PMso they can SUN: ally get a feel for it. It’s like a testing ground.” Lee decides who to make ofTTER.C O M/ on D S PL Apersonal C ES O U L A RD • FArelationCE B O OK . CO M / D SP LAC E . S OU LAR D fers toTWIbased

NEWLY REMODELED NOW NON-SMOKING

314-773-1019

HOURS

DSPLACESOULARD.COM Continued on pg 32

RIVERFRONT TIMES

ens to share her thoughts on the St. Louis food and beverage scene, the importance of morning coffee, and why she can’t shake her love of Provel. What daily ritual is non-negotiable for you? My morning coffee. I cannot begin my day without having a delicious cup of coffee. It’s my zen time to collect my thoughts before the craziness of the day begins. If you could have any superpower, what would it be? I would want to be able to fly so I never had to drive again and could get places quicker. What is the most positive thing in food, wine or cocktails that you’ve noticed in St. Louis over the past year? Collaboration. Chefs from different restaurants getting together and doing dinners to showcase one of their dishes in another restaurant that would be as special as in their own. Whether it’s a dinner for charity or just chefs from different restaurants cooking together in the kitchen, it’s inspirational and fun! Who is your St. Louis food crush? That’s a hard question. St. Louis is bursting with amazing talent, but I would have to say my St. Louis food crush right now is Jesse Mendica. Formally the executive sous chef at Annie Gunn’s, she is now gearing up to run the kitchen at the much-anticipated Olive + Oak. Her devotion to Annie’s for so many years, the way she commands the kitchen and her passion for cooking have made her an inspiration to me over the years, and I can’t wait to see what she does at Olive + Oak. Who’s the one person to watch right now in the St. Louis dining scene? Danielle Luisi, pastry chef at Annie Gunn’s. She is bursting with talent, everything she makes is delicious, and I can’t wait to see what she comes up with next. Which ingredient is most representative of your personality? Wine. I can be sweet, bitter, smooth and harsh. I have a lot of passion and can come on strong. My best friends will tell you they hated me when they first met me, but now they love me. Like a good red, I get better over time. If you weren’t working in the restaurant business, what would you be doing? Is there more out there? Being

DECEMBER 30, 2015-JANUARY 5, 2016

a chef is what I know, what I love, and I couldn’t imagine doing anything else with my life. Name an ingredient never allowed in your kitchen. Jarred mayonnaise. I just don’t like it. And if I want mayo, I can make it. What is your after-work hangout? My couch. My husband and I recently purchased our first home, and after a long day of work, there’s nothing that I want more than to go home, have a glass of wine and relax on the couch with

a good book. What’s your food or beverage guilty pleasure? Imo’s pizza. I’ve eaten a lot of pizza in my day — New York, Chicago, Naples, Florence — but there’s something about Provel, Italian sausage and black olives that makes my taste buds so happy. I was born and raised in St. Louis, so you can’t blame me! What would be your last meal on earth? A cheeseburger with bacon, lettuce and lots of pickles. n

HIRO Continued from pg 30

Hiro Asian Kitchen owner Bernie Lee is opening his kitchen to up-and-comers. | JENNIFER SILVERBERG

ships. He’s tasted the food of everyone he invites, but he insists culinary expertise is secondary to something much more important. “We all have different backgrounds, but everyone I work with is sincere, loves what they do, is curious about other cultures, wants to learn from others and is committed to teamwork,” he says. “A lot of people ask me how I do this. I tell them that I just follow my gut and take people who I feel like I have a connection with.” One of those people is Leon Augustus Braxton Jr., also known as Miss Leon. Lee got to know Braxton when she was running Miss Leon’s soul-food restaurant out of the now-shuttered Bomber’s Hideaway. When he heard of the restaurant’s unexpected closure, Lee wanted to help. “Leon had put her heart and soul into the place, and they closed it without any notice. I was heartbroken for her,” recalls Lee. At first, he simply of-

riverfronttimes.com

fered Braxton a job at Hiro until she could find another spot for the restaurant, but their relationship developed into more of a partnership. “We do Miss Leon’s soul food every Thursday in addition to fried-chicken Sundays,” Lee says. “We still have the Hiro menu available, so this is something extra we offer.” Lee has a whole host of plans for 2016, such as regular Filipino pop-ups (including a monthly traditional Kamayan feast) and a series of dinners with acclaimed Japanese chef Naomi Hamamura. (“We’re flying in Wagyu beef and conch from Japan,” Lee notes excitedly.) He’d also like to find someone who can showcase Korean food. “Our restaurant is a little crazy,” Lee laughs. “People are always like, ‘What’s going on here?’ but it’s less of a playground and more of a big family. Everyone is learning from each other and n having fun.”

DINING GUIDE The Dining Guide lists only restaurants recommended by RFT food critics. The print listings below rotate regularly, as space allows. Our complete Dining Guide is available online; view menus and search local restaurants by name or neighborhood.

Price Guide (based on a three-course meal for one, excluding tax, tip and beverages): $ up to $15 per person $$ $15 - $25 $$$ $25 - $40 $$$$ more than $40

Turkey-leg nachos from Grapeseed. | JENNIFER SILVERBERG [SOUTH CITY]

Adam’s Smokehouse 2819 Watson Road; 314-875-9890

You can’t spell barbecue without “cue,” but the lines haven’t formed outside the door at Adam’s Smokehouse — yet. The slow-smoking barbecue joint in Clifton Heights is a cousin of well-renowned, consistently packed restaurants Pappy’s Smokehouse and Bogart’s Smokehouse, so it seems like only matter a time before all of St. Louis stands in line to try a bite. Co-owners Frank Vinciguerra and Mike Ireland spent several years working at Pappy’s with barbecue master Skip Steele before embarking on their own venture. With the blessing of their barbecue brethren, the two put together a small but substantial menu of smoked meats and traditional sides done well. $$

Leonardo’s Kitchen & Wine Bar 2130 Macklind Avenue; 314-664-1410

Leonardo’s is a quaint sandwich and pizza shop located in a converted gas station. Characteristic of its Hill neighbors, the restaurant specializes in St. Louis-style Italian dishes, such as pastas, sandwiches and pizzas. Meatballs are the house specialty, and Leonardo’s Kitchen and Wine Bar gives diners several opportunities to enjoy them — on the “Hey Bauly” pizza, “naked” with a variety of sauces, or as the must-try meatball sandwich. For this version, Leonardo’s packs the moist, tender meatballs between two slices of garlic bread, smothers them with fresh tomato sauce and basil pesto, then tops them with melted provolone cheese. The hot Italian beef sandwich is another signature dish: Gravy-drenched roasted beef and giardiniera are served atop a soft roll, like an Italian version of a French dip. Pizzas fall between St. Louis and New York style — hand-tossed and thin, but with heft and crunch. Leonardo’s piles on the toppings. Its veggie pizza gives diners two days’ worth of vegetables. This cozy little spot may no longer be filling up cars, but diners will leave overstuffed with tasty casual Italian food. $

Grapeseed

5400 Nottingham Avenue; 314-925-8525 Chef Ben Anderson’s Grapeseed serves seasonal American cuisine in the SoHa neighborhood. Anderson sees the restaurant as a canvas upon which to feature locally sourced ingredients, the wares of the city’s artisans and even paintings by local artists. The menu is eclectic yet approachable, with offerings as varied as a Cuban sand-

wich to Chinese five-spice salmon. Though the menu changes frequently, some dishes remain as his signatures, such as the smoked turkey nachos — a platter of sweet-potato chips topped with smoked turkey, spiced cranberries, micro greens, red peppers, buttermilk dressing and house brewed sweet and sour firecracker sauce. Dine at the bar next to the SoHa regulars, or grab a table in the warm, contemporary dining room for a feast that celebrates the best of the season. $$$

Lulu’s Local Eatery

3201 South Grand Boulevard; 314-357-7717

St. Louis food-truck-goers are already familiar with the name Lulu’s Local Eatery; these mobile peddlers of vegan cuisine have been rolling around town since 2012. Following the success of their truck, husband and wife owners Lauren “Lulu” Loomis and Robert Tucker expanded their operations to include a brick-and-mortar corner storefront on South Grand, featuring the dishes that diners came to love from their food truck. Lulu’s may be vegan, but patrons are treated to hearty, satisfying cuisine that appeals to even the most committed carnivore. Buffalo cauliflower bites are like vegetarian boneless buffalo wings, complete with ranch dressing. Another appetizer, the avocado boat stuffed with Mexican-style quinoa, is satisfying enough to be a meal unto itself. The buffalo veggie burger and sweet-potato falafel are also excellent sandwiches, but the star of the menu is the “Buddha” bowl, filled with stir-fried vegetables and thick, silky udon noodles. Dine on the patio, amid the organic herbs and vegetables — you just might be sitting next to tomorrow’s special. $-$$

Farmhaus

3257 Ivanhoe Avenue; 314-647-3800 Kevin Willmann gained a following for his work at Erato on Main in Edwardsville, Illinois. At Farmhaus he takes his approach — smaller portions, intensely flavored, beautifully constructed — to the next level. The menu changes frequently, but you can’t go wrong with seafood: An avid fisherman, Willmann cut his teeth as a chef on the Gulf Coast. Standouts have included escolar poached in butter and wine with grilled blue prawns and a Cajun mahi-mahi dish. Another highlight: the aptly named “Breakfast” dish, featuring a poached egg, housemade sausage and pork belly. An unpretentious but utterly delicious experience. $$-$$$

riverfronttimes.com

Sat Jan 2 - 7 PM Show - Fletcher Moley Jazz Group Sun Jan 3 - 11:30 AM Brunch - Miss Jubilee Hot Jazz

DECEMBER 30, 2015-JANUARY 5, 2016

RIVERFRONT TIMES

TA K E H O M E TROPS!

Now offering $7 20 oz. legally sealed containers to take safely to your destination!

GAME DAY SPECIAL: Bring your BLUES or BILLIKEN ticket in for

$1 OFF ON GAME DAY 1800 S. 10 TH Street IN HISTORIC SOULARD!

RIVERFRONT TIMES

DECEMBER 30, 2015-JANUARY 5, 2016

riverfronttimes.com

MUSIC [YEAR IN REVIEW]

The Best St. Louis Albums of 2015 It was a very good year – as these ten releases by local musicians proved. Written by

CHRISTIAN SCHAEFFER The best aspect of St. Louis’ music scene is its refusal to be neatly summarized. A city this rich in musical diversity will never be defined by one sound but by the reverberations of many. And by many, we mean very many. Even Homespun, our weekly column that reviews local music, can’t catch everything. Records by Pokey LaFarge, Foxing and the Bottle Rockets found national (and sometimes international) audiences; solid LPs by acts like CaveofswordS and Beth Bombara showed refinement and consistency. But of the fifty-odd local releases reviewed this year, these were the ten that dug in deepest — from promising debuts to welcome returns and plenty of solid, restless creativity in between.

AMERICAN WRESTLERS AMERICAN WRESTLERS When Gary McClure, a 34-yearold native of Scotland, moved to St. Louis, he began making lo-fi home recordings with little more than a cheap guitar and a drum-machine app on his iPhone. He had formerly played in the London-based Working for a Nuclear Free City and wanted to make a record purely on his own. “I thought, ‘Well, if I could write what I wanted to, what would it

Gary McClure had one of the year’s best releases. be?’” says McClure. “I think that’s what I was writing when I wrote this new record. When I was twelve I heard bands like Smashing Pumpkins, Nirvana, Soundgarden, Pearl Jam and that was my thing. That’s how I learned to write songs — from those guys, from obsessing over those records.” While the hallmarks of grunge are not the dominant strain on the American Wrestlers debut, the guitar-driven, direct-to-tape energy shows equal parts tunefulness and DIY invention. Lead single “I Can Do No Wrong” rides on fuzzy bass and a metronomic 4/4 beat, but McClure’s multi-tracked guitars whip and weave around his sweet, expressive vocals. If the recordings are slightly rough around the edges, the pop hooks and smart dynamics are irrepressible.

ARSHAD GOODS BLACK SUNDAY Arshad Goods’ refusal to be put in a box goes beyond his rhymes; the rich sonics and stuttering beats on the debut album from the Uni-

versity City native range from hard-hitting trap music to funky Soulquarian vibes. One of Goods’ strengths is his willingness not only to bounce around styles and subgenres of hip-hop with comfort, but to subvert expectations and change directions within the track. The Quiet Storm jam “Mary Go Round” is as close as the album gets to a slow grind (aided in no small part by Aloha Mi’Sho’s breathy vocals), but Goods drops a spitfire verse where most emcees would keep it smooth. That he ends the track with an emasculating voicemail message from his paramour is further proof that these songs thrive on conflict and tension, and they never play it straight.

BO & THE LOCOMOTIVE IT’S ALL DOWN HERE FROM HERE As if to bless Bo & the Locomotive’s new record with an opening prayer, “There Is a Time” proves that a band accustomed to guitar-addled, nervy rock songs can be spare and spacious with little

riverfronttimes.com

more than piano and over-driven organ. After that hazy, nearly lo-fi opener, “Never Afraid” kicks the record into a different sonic space. Part of the beauty of Bo & the Locomotive has always been in the group’s synergy — namely, that four lovable knuckleheads who were decent but hardly mind-blowing instrumentalists could make such sturdy, robust rock songs. An insistent analog synth line is perhaps the biggest tell of producer David Beeman’s influence on the record, reminiscent of his work with Née and Old Lights, while Bo Bulawsky’s oft-laconic vocals and slow-burn songwriting feel purely kinetic. Normally, there’s little flash or dynamic range in Bo & the Locomotive’s sound — the songs sidle into a mid-range space that would be blasé were the band not so locked-in or the singer less committed to telling his sideways narratives. Bulawsky’s delivery is charming and detached alongside the pleasing grain of his voice, but the tools he deploys here — the knife-sharp movements of “In the Water” or the surprising tenderness of the domestically inclined “Cook” — suggest depth instead of distance.

THE EDUCATED GUESS THE EDUCATED GUESS If bandleader Charlie Brumley’s earlier songs channeled Springsteen’s penchant for symphonic, cinematic scope through the confines of a four-piece rock band, this self-titled LP takes the Boss’ source materials and coats the tracks in technicolor brilliance. Brumley has always counted Phil Spector and Brian Wilson as inspirations, but with an army behind him — 42 musicians, including string and brass sections, as well as a chorus, are listed in the liner notes — the Educated Guess has now constructed its own Wall of Sound. Along with those California pop signifiers, traces of Burt Bacharach, Motown and Philly Soul sneak through, and the girl-group harmonies of the Honeys serve as trebley angels on the shoulder of

DECEMBER 30, 2015-JANUARY 5, 2016

Continued on pg 36

RIVERFRONT TIMES

LOCAL ALBUMS OUR patio… BEST Continued from pg 35

a drinker’s paradise more than piano and over-driven

organ. After that hazy, nearly lo-fi Largest Patio on Morgan Ford opener, “Never Afraid” kicks the Mona -different Industry Night $2 Pints record into sonic space. Part Wed of the- Ladies beauty Night of Bo & the Locomotive has always Thurs- Tenacious been Triviain8-10 the group’s synergy — namely, We are now Non-Smoking! Happy Hour Mon-Sat 3-7pm that four lovable knuckleheads who were decent but hardly 4 Blocks South of Tower Grove Park 3234 Morganford • 314-771-7979 mind-blowing instrumentalists could make such sturdy, robust rock songs. An insistent analog synth line is perhaps the biggest tell of producer David Beeman’s influence on the record, reminiscent of his work with Née and Old Lights, while Bo Bulawsky’s oft-laconic vocals and slow-burn songwriting feel purely kinetic. Normally, there’s little flash or dynamic range in Bo & the Locomotive’s sound — the songs sidle into a mid-range space that would be blasé were the band not so locked-in or the singer less committed to telling his sideways narratives. Bulawsky’s delivery is charming and detached alongside the pleasing grain of his voice, but the tools he deploys here — the knife-sharp movements of “In the Water” or the surprising tenderness of the domestically inclined “Cook” — suggest depth instead of distance.

New Smartpho ne? LINK LINK IT IT UP! UP!

THE EDUCATEDDual GUESSPhone THE EDUCATEDPairing GUESS Plus BUILT IN

Spotify!

If bandleader Charlie Brumley’s earlier songs channeled SpringNEW! steen’s penchant for symphonic, ! through the con20 cinematic 16 scope fines of a four-piece rock band, this 6.2” touchscreen, rear camera ready, three 4-volt preouts self-titled LP takes the Boss’ source materials and coats the tracks in $ technicolor brilliance. Brumley has always counted Phil Spector and Brian Wilson as inspirations, but with an army behind him — 42 musicians, includingPowered string and Bass brass sections, as wellBox as a & cho2 Pair rus, are listed in the liner notes Of — the Educated Guess hasSpeakers! now Choose Alpine SPS speakconstructed its own Wall of Sound. ers to fit your vehicle. Along with those California pop GTBASSPRO; choice of 2: SPS406, signifiers, traces of Burt BachaSPS510, SPS610, SPS517, SPS619 rach, Motown and Philly Soul $1 install is per component in factory-ready locations. Kits, plugs, supplies and custom work the additional. Complete details at store. sneak through, and girl-group harmonies of the Honeys HAZELWOOD serve as SOUTH 233 Village • (314) 731-1212 of 5616 S. Lindbergh • (314) 842-1242 trebley angels on Square theCntr shoulder

299

1 Installs This Sound Upgrade!

549

WEST 14633 Manchester • (636) 527-26811

RIVERFRONT TIMES

FAIRVIEW HEIGHTS Continued on 10900 Lincoln Tr. • (618) 394-9479

pg 36

DECEMBER 30, 2015-JANUARY 5, 2016

Brumley’s plaintive, somewhat limited tenor voice. From a sheer compositional standpoint, there’s been nothing to parallel the Educated Guess in the local pop and rock communities; these songs are precisely arranged and played with gusto and soul, and the scope of this self-titled album is both skillfully assured and musically ambitious.

.E OF CRASHING SYMBOLS

synths. As the patterns lock into a grid, falsetto — buried under delay and placed deep in the mix as to make his words obsolete — gives the track the feel of a yearning, utterly sincere Hot Chip offering. It’s moments like these where Hylidae shows Burkhart’s devotion to a certain retro strand of synthand-sequencer dance-pop, but his sense of classicism is always paired with real-time manipulation and experimental strains.

INDIANA ROME DOPE DEALER 2

Dottie Georges has been performing solo sets as .e for some time, using her guitar to craft If earlier albums found Indiana sonically rich mood music, but Rome inhabiting his mantle with Of Crashing Symbols marks her top-dog braggadocio, the St. Louisrecording debut. Because this is by-way-of-Indiana rapper’s first the first time listeners have had cut “Dollar Short” opens the album a chance to sit with a complete with all the sweat and shortcom.e recording, Georges takes the ings that go into his hustle. It’s a opportunity to display her range thoughtful, soulful rumination on in her typically subdued fashion. struggle and regret that’s given “A Way (to Float) Away,” with its wings by a soaring saxophone shambling structure, lightly cho- lines, one of many groove-based rused guitar and bouncy bass, tracks that helps give Dope Dealer could have fit on a C86 or Sarah 2 its largely silken feel. (Though, Records comp. If kids still made naturally, “Master P” pays tribute early-summer mixtapes for Times their — to the No Limit soldiers in both SL Riverfront 12/31/2015 crushes, this would be a side-A lyric and attack.) centerpiece. Long-time collaborator Vega A few songs later, the insistent Heartbreak drops in for the Audrum programming and sub-oc- toTuned, synth-funk slow jam tave distortion of “Click” finds “Rolling” and punctuates the Georges at her most aggressive. hard-hitting “Woah Woah,” a track Many of her works strike a bal- that gives Rome enough grist to unance between these two poles, re- leash his most fleet-footed, self-ascalling the British dreaminess of sured verses. Those two songs Lush while channeling the digital represent the extremes of the unease of EMA. When .e stretches palette this time around, though into purely electronic territory, the most ride on smooth soul samples music reflects a similarly overcast or center on loverboy hooks. mood with a new palette of tones.

HYLIDAE INTRANSITIVE On this eight-track album, Hylidae – the solo project of synthesist and singer Jon Burkhart — doesn’t hide its dance-floor pretensions but skips right for the pleasure center. “Eulogy” mixes darkwave dub with nearly Caribbean textures for a wobbly, increasingly unhinged track. Some of that unease creeps into “NTHE,” the album’s longest song and its centerpiece, as a simple drum-machine pattern intensifies amid ominously pitched

riverfronttimes.com

LITTLE BIG BANGS STAR POWER The whiplash from genre-hopping, even within songs, makes it hard to pigeonhole this relatively young but admirably prolific punk band, but that’s probably by design. It speaks to Little Big Bangs’ method of ripping it up and starting again that the rangy, squalling album closer “Aftermath” dissolves in the band’s most gentle moment to date, a fadeout colored by tender drums, plaintive electric piano and piled-on vocals. Continued on pg 38

. St

Lou

i s ’ O n ly T i k i B a

Join us for New Year’s Eve

Happy hour 4 to 7 drink specials all night no cover charge before 8. DJ’s, music and fun as part of TIMECHASER-2 8 to 1:30.

Over 200 rums

from around the world!! 4199 Manchester Ave in The Grove 314-202-8300

Beer whiskey pizza

Live music

weDnesDay 12.30

Get in The Grove for exciting Drinking, Dining, Dancing, & Shopping!

pop punk party new year's eve

timechaser 2 constant surprises saturDay 01.02

fairway jet BLack aLLey cat Life Lessons vega tuesDay 01.05

wiLDerun stormcaLLer warhorse 4191 manchester ave - st. Louis, 63110 theDemostL.com

riverfronttimes.com

DECEMBER 30, 2015-JANUARY 5, 2016

RIVERFRONT TIMES

RED WHITE & BLUE

TNT Glass

Designs

All-American

Smoke Shop Pipes • Vaporizers • Detox Locally Crafted Jewelry CBD American Shaman Products Hand-Blown Glass Pipes New PAX 2 Herbal Vaporizer Gift Sets Custom Wraps by Cody

BALL 2016

Voted Best Smoke Shop 2015

READERS CHOICE 2015

6163 EAST DELMAR LOOP | 314.863.8860

DONATIONS MADE TO H.E.R.O.E.S. CARE! FOR EVERY ONLINE TICKET SOLD @

Tef Poe’s new album takes on civil unrest.

LACLEDES-LANDING.BIGDADDYSTL.COM

2 GREAT PACKAGES FOR YOUR

NYE EXPERIENCE

$75 PREMIUM PATRIOTIC PACKAGE 6:30-12:30am OPEN BAR FOR 6 HOURS AMAZING 3 HOUR 5 COURSE BUFFET CHAMPAGNE TOAST @ MIDNIGHT $100 PLATINUM “BEN FRANKLIN” PACKAGE 6:30-12:30am OPEN BAR FOR 6 HOURS CELEBRATION SHOTS INCLUDED UNLIMITED CHAMPAGNE ALL NIGHT 5 COURSE FOOD BUFFET CASH BAR AFTER 12:30AM

OPEN TIL 3 AM!

VIP TABLE RESERVATIONS ARE NEW THIS YEAR

RESERVED SECTIONS FOR SMALL/LARGE GROUPS DEDICATED COCKTAIL/BOTTLE SERVICE CHOICE OF PREMIUM SPIRIT’S RIGHT ON THE TABLE

PARTY HOTLINE 314-621-6700 ONLINE SALES

LACLEDES-LANDING.BIGDADDYSTL.COM 38

RIVERFRONT TIMES

BEST LOCAL ALBUMS Continued from pg 36 This coda is as unexpected as it is affecting as the three singers coo and harmonize over a pretty good summation of the punk M.O.: “Fuck their world/we’re all we’ve got.” Like Sonic Youth’s quieter excursions, the album’s final moments serve as a foil to the noise that precedes it, a recasting of the same message with a distinctly different energy.

New year’s eve

10:30PM

Funky Butt Brass Band

sat. jan. 2

10PM

Grooveliner The Provels and The Service

fri. jan. 22

10PM

Bonerama

From New Orleans

736 S Broadway St. Louis, MO 63102 (314) 621-8811

DECEMBER 30, 2015-JANUARY 5, 2016

SO MANY DYNAMOS SAFE WITH SOUND You can’t call So Many Dynamos’ newest LP Safe With Sound a comeback album, even if it is the band’s first full-length in six years. In St. Louis, at least, the group never really went away. That the band has embraced its funkier, more rhythmically driven side isn’t news to those who have caught a show around town over the past few years. But the collision of Cameo synths and Gap Band horn charts, particularly on “Matter of Fact,” is an odd bit of zeitgeist-goosing for a track written and recorded more than two years ago (and well before Mark Ronson and Bruno Mars had to chip off a chunk of that “Uptown Funk” songwriting credit to their ’70s and ’80s R&B forebears). The

riverfronttimes.com

shock of recognition doesn’t stop the song from being a standout here, and an emblem of the band’s maturing sound.

TEF POE WAR MACHINE III War Machine III can’t be divorced from the last twelve months of unrest, protests and hard conversations, specifically in St. Louis but with increasingly national resonance. Unpacking the composition of the album’s cover art gives more than a few clues: weed and Hennessy, books on Martin, Malcolm and Tupac, a Guy Fawkes mask covering up the Holy Bible. Oh, and a pump shotgun resting across the rapper, activist and Ferguson native’s lap. This is the third iteration of Tef Poe’s War Machine series and a reminder that this is not a new struggle for the rapper; the difference is that the stakes have never felt higher. It’s clear from the album’s first few songs — from the fury of “F.A.M.E. (Fuck All My Enemies)” to the self-actualization of “Prince” — that Tef (an occasional RFT contributor) is not interested in half-measures or mealy mouthed debates. It’s ride or die all the way through.

B-SIDES Is Dabbin’ Really Swaggin’? East St. Louis Lays Claim Written by

BY DOYLE MURPHY

arolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton stretched across the goal line during a November game in Tennessee, hopped up and started his touchdown dance. A little shimmy, a little hand waving and then the NFL star lifted his right arm and bobbed his head toward the crook of his bent elbow. As far as end-zone dances go, it was pretty tame. But it quickly took off online. Fans snipped clips of the film and posted them on YouTube. Opponents (and even the angry mother of one young Titans backer) complained about disrespect. Hall of Fame receiver Cris Carter, now an analyst on ESPN, tried to explain to a panel of baffled middle-age commentators what they had seen. “That’s called ‘bapping,’” Carter said, mimicking the forehead-toelbow move. “He bapped on him.” People on the Internet thought this was hilarious. Bapping? Cris Carter must be getting old. “Cris Carter Repeatedly Refers to Dabbing as ‘Bapping,’ Loses All Cool Points,” read the headline in Complex, an authority on such issues. It only brought more attention to the dance craze, largely credited to Atlanta rappers Migos, who recorded “Look at My Dab.” The group is now actively trying to expand the meaning to a lifestyle as they release a new Dab clothing line. East St. Louis, Illinois, native Darryl “Where Muney At” Garner winces as he sees everyone from

Phantastik’s members hope East St. Louis gets some credit for the Dab. | COURTESY OF PHANTASTIK LeBron James to little girls doing the move. “It hurts me a little, because it’s not Dab,” the 26-year-old tells Riverfront Times. “It’s Swag.” Dancers in his hometown started doing the move as early as 2008, Garner claims. He and friends Marcus “Prince Marc Von” Jackson and Kyle “Raziel” Young were just starting out as performers back then. The three had branched off from an East St. Louis Senior High School dance team to form their own squad, called Phantastik. They landed some national exposure just three months after coming together when they performed on BET’s former hit hip-hop show 106 & Park with Carbondale’s Pop It Off Boyz. They were soon incorporating the bent-elbow move into their routine. In a video uploaded to YouTube on December 16, 2009, the three dance in a parking lot. The footage has become like Garner’s Zapruder film as he tries to reclaim the move for East St. Louis and the metro area. The lighting is bad, but the video is clear enough. Thirty-two seconds in, the three raise their left arms in unison and duck their

heads toward their bent elbows. Garner isn’t saying they were the first in the Metro East ever to do the move, but he thinks they’re the first to put it on video. “We’re the ones who actually took it to the forefront by putting it on YouTube and pushing it out to the world,” he says. The move was called Swaggin,’ and it was popular in clubs on both sides of the Mississippi River, Garner says. He can only speculate how it might have traveled south. The St. Louis hip-hop market is limited, he says. A dance video they posted might rack up tens of thousands of views here, but it was hard to push it further. “The only thing is, I feel we’re not a major market right now,” he says. “A lot of people don’t have their eyes on St. Louis.” That’s one of the big reasons Phantastik moved three years ago to Atlanta, where the members perform and help other acts with choreography while working in various aspects of the entertainment industry. They still Swag, Garner says, but the move didn’t get really hot until Migos started doing it under the Dab name. It’s now a legit sensation, the subject of think pieces and ex-

riverfronttimes.com

plainers in mainstream media outlets. FOX News NFL aired a segment featuring Newton, wearing a gleaming, black-and-white patterned suit, trying to teach host Erin Andrews how to do it. “It’s something simple,” Newton says. “So go, help a girl out,” Andrews replies. “My mom describes it as sneezing,” he tells her, raising his forearm as if to cover his mouth. “So you’re sneezing. Boom, like that.” The origin has ignited minor controversies. Rapper Bow Wow provoked a Twitter slap fight with Migos when he claimed it came from a cough-inducing way of smoking a potent marijuana extract. “We got the whole world dabbin’, and they don’t even understand or know what dab is,” Bow Wow said in a video. Migos responded, calling him a “clown ass” in a series of posts. “Bow Wow must of got a little too high this morning.” Others have come forward to insist it was another rapper, Skippa Da Flippa, who should get credit. Left out of the conversation is East St. Louis. Garner points to Migos member Quavious “Quavo” Marshall in August on New York City-based radio show The Breakfast Club as proof they just repurposed the move. “Dab is Swag, and we ain’t calling is Swag no more,” Quavo told hosts Charlamagne Tha God and Angela Yee. There are similar references in Migos’ lyrics: “You niggas still sayin’ swag/My niggas switched it up we call it Dab.” Garner claims that’s a “dead giveaway,” and East St. Louis should get credit. “I felt like they stole it, and they took it as theirs,” Garner says, adding “It’s like me doing the Moonwalk — like I’ve seen Michael Jackson do it, but nobody else has. So I start doing the Moonwalk, but I call it the Walk Moon.” It’s not really about money, he insisted (although the attention could help). It’s about the outside world recognizing St. Louis and East St. Louis for something beyond crime and violence. “I think people would be proud,” Garner says. n

DECEMBER 30, 2015-JANUARY 5, 2016

RIVERFRONT TIMES

Bowling the way it is now – FUN!

A St. Louis Landmark

New Year’s Eve & New Year’s Day

Popcorn Shrimp Nachos

FPO

Open regular hours 11am – 1:30am No pricey surcharges! Just a good time!

3 words: Also, check out our NYE bash inCheese the Duck Room w/ Super Magik Robots Cheddar Balls! BlueberryHill.com JUST 6191 Delmar · 314-727-5555 ADDED! PinUpBowl.com

THU. 12/31

BlueberryHill.StL DuckRoomSTL

@BlueberryHillMO @DuckRoom

THU. 1/7

THU. 1/14

wonton chips topped with popcorn shrimp, cheese, shredded lettuce, salsa, sour cream and sriracha

24/7 PeacockLoopDiner.com 6261 Delmar in The Loop

SAT. 1/16

SAT. 1/23*

SAT. 1/30*

“St. Louis pioneers of craft beer and live music”

DECEMBER 31 ST NYE Goose Island Presents

HOP INTO 2016: A CRAFT BEER MASQUERADE

SUN. 2/14*

THU. 3/3 18+

SAT. 2/6*

INCLUDES: all 55 drafts, well drinks, food, dancing, music & party favors

21+ TO ENTER | DOORS OPEN AT 9PM $60 ADV /$70 D O S **$20 DESIGNATED DRIVER TICKETS AVAILABLE** ( INCLUDES ALL THE ABOVE EXCLUDING ALCOHOL ) FRIDAY, JANUARY 1 ST

Play The Hero, Reckless Moment, Pseudo Skylight, Murphy & The Deathrays, Brandon Carney Punk/Pop - Doors 7:30pm- $8 adv/$10 Door 1/2 QUEENS OF COMEDY 1/15* BRAINWAVES 2/6* THE FADE EP RELEASE SHOW 2/26* BRONZE RADIO RETURN 3/12* JOSEPH 3/13* COMMON KINGS Tickets available at Blueberry Hill (no service fees with cash) All Ticketmaster ticket centers H Ticketmaster.Com *All Ages shows: $2 minor surcharge at doors.

Open 7 days from 11 am 6504 Delmar in The Loop ★ 314-727-4444 40

RIVERFRONT TIMES

DECEMBER 30, 2015-JANUARY 5, 2016

riverfronttimes.com

SATURDAY, JANUARY 2 ND

Nite Owl Birthday Bash with special guests: Cold Summer,Tish Haynes Keys, Dj Stan Da Man Hip Hop/R&B - Doors 8pm- $8 adv/$10 Door

EVERY Beer of the month: Free glass with every TUESDAY NEW BELGIUM New Belgium purchase.

6691 Delmar

In the University City Loop

314.862.0009 • www.ciceros-stl.com

THURSDAY 12/31

FRIDAY 1/8

SATURDAY 1/9

SATURDAY 1/16

FRIDAY 1/22 & SATURDAY 1/23

TUESDAY 1/26

THURSDAY 1/28

SATURDAY 1/30

THURSDAY 2/4

UPCOMING SHOWS 3.6 GEORGE THOROGOOD & THE DESTROYERS

2.9 KEYS N KRATES 2.10 & 2.11 JIM JEFFERIES

3.8 BRYSON TILLER

2.12 STS9

3.13 MELANIE MARTINEZ

2.13 MIKE STUD

3.15 X AMBASSADORS

2.17 GAELIC STORM

3.24 EXCISION

2.18 LOTUS

4.9 YONDER MOUNTAIN STRING BAND

2.21 BULLET FOR MY VALENTINE

4.10 UNDEROATH

2.23 DROPKICK MURPHYS

4.15 CHARLES KELLEY

2.24 HOODIE ALLEN

4.16 JIM NORTON

2.25 DARK STAR ORCHESTRA

4.22 ANDREW BIRD

2.26 & 2.27 CELEBRATION DAY: A TRIBUTE TO LED ZEPPELIN

5.3 ANIMAL COLLECTIVE

2.29 LOGIC

6.8 LEON BRIDGES

3.4 METRIC

6.25 BLUE OCTOBER

visit us online for complete show information facebook.com/ThePageantSTL

@ThePageantSTL

thepageantstl.tumblr.com

thepageant.com // 6161 delmar blvd. / St. Louis, MO 63112 // 314.726.6161

riverfronttimes.com

DECEMBER 30, 2015-JANUARY 5, 2016

RIVERFRONT TIMES

OUT EVERY NIGHT

W E D N E S D AY BOB “BUMBLE BEE” KAMOSKE: 8 p.m. Beale on Broadway, 701 S. Broadway, St. Louis, 314-621-7880. DOWN TO THE RIVER: A TRIBUTE TO BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN: w/ Brothers Lazaroff, the Fog Lights, Letter to Memphis, Dan Johanning and the Wilderness 8 p.m., $10. Off Broadway, 3509 Lemp Ave., St. Louis, 314773-3363. GET AT ME: w/ the Former Me, Equal Squeeze, the Cinema Story 6 p.m., $7. The Demo, 4191 Manchester Ave, St. Louis, 314-833-5532. SAMANTHA FISH: 8 p.m., $12-$15. Old Rock House, 1200 S. 7th St., St. Louis, 314-588-0505. TIDAL VOLUME: w/ Church Key, In Profile, You Had Me At Posters 7 p.m., $5-$10. The Firebird, 2706 Olive St., St. Louis, 314-535-0353.

FAIRWAY: w/ Jet Black Alley Cat, Life Lessons 7 p.m., $3. The Demo, 4191 Manchester Ave, St. Louis, 314-8335532. JACKSON HOWARD CD RELEASE PARTY: w/ Emily Wallace, Marc McDonough 8 p.m., $10. Off Broadway, 3509 Lemp Ave., St. Louis, 314-7733363. ROCKIN CHAIR: 7 p.m., $10-$12. Old Rock House, 1200 S. 7th St., St. Louis,

314-588-0505.

S U N D AY THE 3RD ANNUAL SOUL SOUP CONCERT: w/ JD Hughes and the Fuze, Hillary Fitz 7 p.m., $10. Foam Coffee & Beer, 3359 Jefferson Ave., St. Louis, 314-772-2100. FAIL TO DECAY: w/ Ascension of Akari 7 p.m., $8-$10. Fubar, 3108 Locust St, St. Louis, 314-289-9050.

[CRITIC’S PICK]

KARATE BIKINI: w/ Search Parties, Brotherfather 8 p.m., $10. Off Broadway, 3509 Lemp Ave., St. Louis, 314773-3363. PLAY THE HERO: w/ the Reckless Moment, Pseudo Skylight, Murphy and the Death Rays, Brandon Carney 7 p.m., $8-$10. Cicero’s, 6691 Delmar Blvd., University City, 314-862-0009.

S AT U R D AY ANTITHOUGHT: w/ Sunwyrm, Ruz, Blight Future 9 p.m., $7. The Heavy Anchor, 5226 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, 314-352-5226.

RIVERFRONT TIMES

Pokey LaFarge. | COURTESY POKEY LAFARGE

POKEY LAFARGE 8 p.m. Thursday, December 31.

F R I D AY

SOULARD BLUES BAND: 9 p.m., $5. Broadway Oyster Bar, 736 S. Broadway, St. Louis, 314-621-8811. THE BLACK MARKET CLUB: 7 p.m., $10. Fubar, 3108 Locust St, St. Louis, 314-289-9050. JAMAICA LIVE TUESDAYS: w/ Ital K, Mr. Roots, DJ Witz, $5/$10. Elmo’s Love Lounge, 7828 Olive Blvd, University City, 314-282-5561. KIRBY JAYES: w/ Bucko Toby, Hannah Rainey, Sleeping Cranes 9 p.m., $5. Foam Coffee & Beer, 3359 Jefferson Ave., St. Louis, 314-772-2100. WILDERUN: w/ Stormcaller 7 p.m., $7. The Demo, 4191 Manchester Ave, St. Louis, 314-833-5532.

THIS JUST IN

T H U R S D AY JAKE’S LEG 40TH ANNIVERSARY NEW YEAR’S EVE CELEBRATION: 9 p.m., $15-$20. Old Rock House, 1200 S. 7th St., St. Louis, 314-588-0505. JON HARDY AND THE PUBLIC: 8 p.m., $15. Off Broadway, 3509 Lemp Ave., St. Louis, 314-773-3363. MASKED INTRUDER: w/ the Fuck Off And Dies, the Haddonfields, the Humanoids 9 p.m., $18-$20. The Firebird, 2706 Olive St., St. Louis, 314-535-0353. NEW YEARS EVE METAL BASH: w/ Article III, Awaiting the Gallows, Nethersphere 8 p.m., $10-$12. Fubar, 3108 Locust St, St. Louis, 314-289-9050. POKEY LAFARGE: w/ the Hooten Hallers, River Kittens 8 p.m., $30$35. The Pageant, 6161 Delmar Blvd., St. Louis, 314-726-6161.

M O N D AY

The Pageant, 6161 Delmar Boulevard. All ages. $30 general admission, $35 reserved balcony. 314-7266161.

The juggernaut that is Pokey LaFarge shows no signs of slowing — he’s got a touring schedule that would impress the likes of Dylan or Willie Nelson in their primes. Nor is Pokey show interested in compromising on his wildly fun and fiercely artful version of pre- (and sometimes post-) war American blues, jazz and hillbilly music. This year he signed with Rounder Records and

DECEMBER 30, 2015-JANUARY 5, 2016

released his most expansive (dig the horns, reeds and revved-up percussion) and funny (dig the title cut’s wordplay) album, Something in the Water, a collection that has widened his fan base and furthered his mission of honoring St. Louis and the Midwest in every yawp, croon, swing and shake. Opening salvos: A full night of New Year’s Eve revelry starts with the folksy femme fatale harmonies of St. Louis’ River Kittens and the growling lap-steel power of Columbia’s Hooten Hallers. – Roy Kasten

riverfronttimes.com

ACID KAT VALENTINE’S DAY: W/ Wray, Sat., Feb. 13, 9 p.m., $5. Foam Coffee & Beer, 3359 Jefferson Ave., St. Louis, 314-772-2100. BABY BABY DANCE WITH ME: W/ Slick, Dangerbird, Sat., Jan. 9, 9 p.m., free. Schlafly Tap Room, 2100 Locust St., St. Louis, 314-241-2337. BASEMENT FAMILY: W/ Boreal Hills, Fri., Feb. 5, 9 p.m., $5. Foam Coffee & Beer, 3359 Jefferson Ave., St. Louis, 314-772-2100. BEAT BUMS: W/ Whoa Thunder, True Friends, Fri., Jan. 15, 8 p.m., $5. Foam Coffee & Beer, 3359 Jefferson Ave., St. Louis, 314-772-2100. BLANK THOMAS (DISMAL NICHE TAPE RELEASE SHOW): W/ Nevada Green, Infinite Mario, Thu., Jan. 28, 9 p.m., free. Foam Coffee & Beer, 3359 Jefferson Ave., St. Louis, 314-772-2100. BLK JUPTR: W/ Smino, Monte Booker, Jean Deaux, Bryant Stewart, Jay 2, Fri., Jan. 22, 8 p.m., $10-$12. The Demo, 4191 Manchester Ave, St. Louis, 314-833-5532. BRUXISM 13: W/ Stone Lobster, Albert Kuo, Louis Wall, Thu., Jan. 28, 9 p.m., free. Schlafly Tap Room, 2100 Locust St., St. Louis, 314-241-2337. DANIEL ROTH AND THE MOTHS: W/ the Casey Bazzell Band, Edgefield C. Johnson Duo, Sat., Feb. 13, 9 p.m., free. Schlafly Tap Room, 2100 Locust St., St. Louis, 314-241-2337. DE LOS MUERTOS: W/ Kristin Cobos and the Code, Michael Howard, Sat., Feb. 6, 9 p.m., free. Schlafly Tap Room, 2100 Locust St., St. Louis, 314241-2337. DIRTFOOT: W/ Tyrannosaurus Chicken, Sat., Jan. 16, 11:30 p.m., $10/$12.

FIND ANY SHOW IN TOWN... [CRITIC’S PICK]

Jake’s Leg. | JAMES STONEKING/FLICKR

T U E S D AY

JAKE’S LEG The Old Rock House, 1200 South Seventh Street. $15 in advance, $20 day of show. 314-588-0505.

2015 was either a very good year or a very bad year for Grateful Dead fans, depending on whom you ask. Was the multi-day Chicago farewell an appropriate sendoff or a cash grab aimed at people with Deadhead stickers on their Cadillacs? Was the fall run of dates with the Dead just an excuse for John Mayer

FIND ANY SHOW IN TOWN...

to make his Mayer-face during solos first carved out by Jerry Garcia? Either way, local Dead fans can say goodbye to a momentous 2015 with Jake’s Leg, a local institution that will be celebrating its 40th year of playing Grateful Dead tunes and keeping the long, strange trip from ever ending. The Magic Number: Jake’s Leg will play three sets; the first one starts at 9:30 p.m. – Christian Schaeffer

PHOTOGRAPHER: TODD OWYOUNG BAND: SLEEPY KITTY

Fire, Sat., Jan. 16, 9 p.m., $5. Foam Old Rock House, 1200 S. 7th St., St. Coffee & Beer, 3359 Jefferson Ave., Louis, 314-588-0505. St. Louis, 314-772-2100. THEWith DOCKour ELLIS BAND: W/ the River new and improved Kittens, Sat., Jan. 23, 9 p.m., $10. concert calendar! RFT’s online HOLLOW EARTH: Mon., March 28, 6:30 Off Broadway, 3509 Lemp Ave., St. music listings are now sortable p.m., $13-$16. Fubar, 3108 Locust St, St. Louis, 314-289-9050. Louis, 314-773-3363. by artist, venue and price. You I SEE STARS: W/ Chunk! No, Captain DROPKICK THE ROBOT: W/ Brotherfacan Chunk!, Get Scared, Palaye Royale, ther, theeven Fade,buy Fri.,tickets Jan. 22, directly 9 p.m., from our website—with The White Noise, A Promise To free. Foam Coffee & Beer, 3359 Jefmore options on 314-772-2100. the way! Burn, Fri., March 4, 6:15 p.m., $18ferson Ave., St. Louis, $21. Fubar, 3108 Locust St, St. Louis, THE FADE: W/ World Famous, Flying 314-289-9050. House, Sat., Jan. 23, 9 p.m., free. INFINITE ME: W/ Alistair Hennessy, Schlafly Tap Room, 2100 Locust St., Bike Path, Native Tongue, Wed., Feb. St. Louis, 314-241-2337. 3, 9 p.m., $5. Foam Coffee & Beer, FAR FROM FICTION: W/ Sunwyrm, 3359 Jefferson Ave., St. Louis, 314Tracing Wires, Sat., Feb. 20, 7 p.m., 772-2100. $10. Fubar, 3108 Locust St, St. Louis, JEALOUSY MOUNTAIN DUO: W/ Jitters, 314-289-9050. Hardbody, Tue., Feb. 16, 8 p.m., $5. FIELD DIVISION: Sun., Jan. 24, 9 p.m., Foam Coffee & Beer, 3359 Jefferson $5. Foam Coffee & Beer, 3359 JefferAve., St. Louis, 314-772-2100. son Ave., St. Louis, 314-772-2100. JENNIFER HALL: W/ Acorns to Oaks, FUTURE LEADERS OF THE WORLD: Thu., Feb. 18, 7 p.m., $12-$14. Fubar, Marie & the Americans, Wed., Jan. 27, 9 p.m., $5. Foam Coffee & Beer, 3108 Locust St, St. Louis, 314-2893359 Jefferson Ave., St. Louis, 3149050. 772-2100. GT \\//: W/ Yonsei, Staghorn, Breath Continued on pg 44 www.riverfronttimes.com/concerts/

R R PHOTOGRAPHER: TODD OWYOUNG BAND: SLEEPY KITTY

8 p.m. Thursday, December 31.

riverfronttimes.com

With our new and improved concert calendar! RFT’s online music listings are now sortable by artist, venue and price. You can even buy tickets directly from our website—with more options on the way! www.riverfronttimes.com/concerts/

DECEMBER 30, 2015-JANUARY 5, 2016

RIVERFRONT TIMES

THIS JUST IN Continued from pg 43 JESSICA LEE WILKES: W/ Rum Drum Ramblers, Wed., Feb. 10, 9 p.m., $5. Foam Coffee & Beer, 3359 Jefferson Ave., St. Louis, 314-772-2100. JESSY CAROLINA AND THE HOT MESS: Fri., Feb. 19, 9 p.m., $5. Foam Coffee & Beer, 3359 Jefferson Ave., St. Louis, 314-772-2100. JORDAN BAUMSTARK: W/ Jordan Baumstark, Buc Boyz, MERK, Twizzy Kid, Dru Pres, Luh Zoe, Quizzy James, D-Lou, LT Johnson, Sun., Jan. 10, 9 p.m., $10-$16. Fubar, 3108 Locust St, St. Louis, 314-289-9050. KARATE BIKINI: W/ Dog Brain, Jon Valley, Sat., Feb. 20, 9 p.m., free. Schlafly Tap Room, 2100 Locust St., St. Louis, 314-241-2337. THE MERCS: W/ Buttercup, Kadu Flyer, Fri., Jan. 15, 9 p.m., free. Schlafly Tap Room, 2100 Locust St., St. Louis, 314-241-2337. MICROWAVES: W/ the R6 Implant, Double God, Thu., Feb. 18, 9 p.m., free. Schlafly Tap Room, 2100 Locust St., St. Louis, 314-241-2337. THE MINOTAURS: W/ Ryan Markovich, Sun., Feb. 14, 9 p.m., $5. Foam Coffee & Beer, 3359 Jefferson Ave., St. Louis, 314-772-2100. NEW BERLIN: W/ Boreal Hills, Drag, Zak M, Thu., Jan. 14, 9 p.m., $5. Foam Coffee & Beer, 3359 Jefferson Ave., St. Louis, 314-772-2100. A NIGHT OF DUOS II: W/ Sam Clapp/ Chad Hickman, Stephen Houldsworth/Sean Ballard, Ben Stegmann/ Patrick Weston, Thu., Jan. 14, 9 p.m., free. Schlafly Tap Room, 2100 Locust St., St. Louis, 314-241-2337. PALOMINO SHAKEDOWN: W/ Jack Grelle, Weird Vibers, Baby Baby Come Dance with Me, Fri., Jan. 29, 9 p.m., $5. Foam Coffee & Beer, 3359 Jefferson Ave., St. Louis, 314-7722100. PANCAKE PRODUCTIONS XRII: W/ Dubb Nubb, Mangina, Syna So Pro, Ellen the Felon, Tropical Carnivore, Googolplexia, Tue., Jan. 12, 8 p.m., $5. Foam Coffee & Beer, 3359 Jefferson Ave., St. Louis, 314-772-2100. PAT SAJAK ASSASSINS: W/ the Tennis Lesson, Bear Cub, Fri., Feb. 12, 9 p.m., free. Foam Coffee & Beer, 3359 Jefferson Ave., St. Louis, 314-7722100. PURGE THE EVIL: W/ Sozorox, Through The Scope, Fri., Jan. 8, 8 p.m., $10. Fubar, 3108 Locust St, St. Louis, 314-289-9050. REDHEADED STRANGERS: W/ the Sadie Hawkins Day String Band, Fri., Jan. 29, 9 p.m., free. Schlafly Tap Room, 2100 Locust St., St. Louis, 314241-2337. THE ROARING 420’S: Wed., Feb. 24, 9

RIVERFRONT TIMES

DECEMBER 30, 2015-JANUARY 5, 2016

riverfronttimes.com

p.m., $5. Foam Coffee & Beer, 3359 Jefferson Ave., St. Louis, 314-7722100. ROYAL HOLLAND: W/ Bruiser Queen, the Wilderness, Tue., Feb. 2, 9 p.m., $5. Foam Coffee & Beer, 3359 Jefferson Ave., St. Louis, 314-772-2100. SIDNEY STREET SHAKERS: Wed., Jan. 20, 9 p.m., free. Foam Coffee & Beer, 3359 Jefferson Ave., St. Louis, 314772-2100. SODA: W/ Shitstorm, Bubbleheads, Fumer, Mon., Feb. 1, 9 p.m., $5. Foam Coffee & Beer, 3359 Jefferson Ave., St. Louis, 314-772-2100. SOMA JET SET: W/ Faults and Wonder, Mariner 5, Sat., Jan. 30, 9 p.m., free. Schlafly Tap Room, 2100 Locust St., St. Louis, 314-241-2337. THE SOUTH CITY TROUBADOURS: W/ the Miss Molly Simms Band, the Riverside Wanderers, Fri., Feb. 12, 9 p.m., free. Schlafly Tap Room, 2100 Locust St., St. Louis, 314-241-2337. THOUGHTS DETECTING MACHINES: W/ Stomatopod, Sat., Jan. 30, 9 p.m., $5. Foam Coffee & Beer, 3359 Jefferson Ave., St. Louis, 314-772-2100. THRASHAMANIA 6: W/ MRSA, Plagued Insanity, Smash Potater, Texas Toast Chainsaw Massacre, Bastard, Melursus, Sat., Jan. 30, 7 p.m., $12. Fubar, 3108 Locust St, St. Louis, 314289-9050. THREE CROOKED MEN: W/ the Root Diggers, Dugoutcanoe, Sat., Jan. 16, 9 p.m., free. Schlafly Tap Room, 2100 Locust St., St. Louis, 314-241-2337. TOM KOVACEVIC: W/ Colby Nathan, Fragile Farm, Malady, Fri., Feb. 26, 9 p.m., $5. Foam Coffee & Beer, 3359 Jefferson Ave., St. Louis, 314-7722100. TRAVELING SOUND MACHINE: W/ the Defeated County, the Good Deeds, Thu., Jan. 21, 9 p.m., free. Schlafly Tap Room, 2100 Locust St., St. Louis, 314-241-2337. TURKUAZ: W/ Ghost Note, Thu., Feb. 4, 8 p.m., $12/$15. Old Rock House, 1200 S. 7th St., St. Louis, 314-5880505. THE VANILLA BEANS: W/ the Potomac Accord, Dubb Nubb, Fri., Jan. 22, 9 p.m., free. Schlafly Tap Room, 2100 Locust St., St. Louis, 314-241-2337. THE VIGILETTES: W/ Bella and Lily, Flying House, Fri., Feb. 19, 9 p.m., free. Schlafly Tap Room, 2100 Locust St., St. Louis, 314-241-2337. WEIRD SCIENCE: W/ Brenda, Big Blonde, Thu., Feb. 18, 9 p.m., $5. Foam Coffee & Beer, 3359 Jefferson Ave., St. Louis, 314-772-2100. WINTER HIP HOP SHOWCASE: W/ Blaze 1, Slim Jesus, TRIPLESTAK, Nate Moore, Less, MECHBARR, Khori 4, Sat., Jan. 9, 8 p.m., $15-$18. Fubar, 3108 Locust St, St. Louis, 314-2899050.

SAVAGE LOVE OTHER DICKS, OTHER DOMS BY DAN SAVAGE Hey, Dan: I am a 30-year-old straight man and I’ve been with a 28-year-old bisexual woman for a year. Early in our relationship, after much discussion, we established that it would be open. I would have the liberty to see other women and so would she. We just had to be safe and always keep each other informed. The key was that she agreed to see only other women. Fast-forward a few months, and she told me that she had drunkenly kissed a male coworker. Hearing her say that hurt me. However, since then she has explained to me that the rule that she can be only with women is unfair because she’s bisexual and she’s attracted to both men and women. My question: How do I deal with the jealousy and emotions that will come up when she does kiss another man? Having Emotional Reaction Means Asking Nervously “Hard Truth No. 1: Renegotiating is crucial to the survival of all long-term relationships —

even more so in unconventional, custom-designed relationships where there’s no established template,” said Christopher Ryan, author of Sex at Dawn: How We Mate, Why We Stray, and What It Means for Modern Relationships. “And while I don’t see any unfairness in HERMAN’s girlfriend wanting to have the same freedom he has (to see whomever she wants), if he agreed to the open relationship on the condition that she ‘see only other women,’ then renegotiating is going to be difficult.” Your description of that particular limitation — only other women — as “key” to opening up your relationship, HERMAN, left Ryan feeling less than optimistic. “Hard Truth No. 2: It’s a time-wasting mistake to negotiate nonnegotiables,” said Ryan. “I’m not saying we shouldn’t be willing to learn and grow by trying new things. But our first task is to ‘know thyself’ and take it from there.” Assuming you’re willing to renegotiate, HERMAN, where do you start? “Perhaps the question of why he’s more bothered by her being with men than women,” said Ryan. “Maybe he could ask her to set up a three-way with a man they both like so he can face the dragon. But, again, if this is a non-

negotiable, it might be better to end the relationship than to attempt to be someone he’s not or agree to something he’ll never be at peace with.” Hey, Dan: I am a long-time reader and listener (magnum podcast subscriber!), and I have a bit of a conundrum. My partner and I have a DADT agreement in regards to extramarital relations. I’m a fortysomething woman who travels a lot on business, and I find those trips a great opportunity to have NSA flings with younger men, all in good fun. So far, Tinder seems to be a good way to meet people, and I try to take precautions to ensure they are who they say they are by checking them out on social media and meeting them first in a public place. But a girl can’t be too careful. Sometimes I wish I had someone I could call and just say, “Hey, I’m hosting a stranger tonight at my hotel. Could you call me at a specific time to check he hasn’t chopped me up into little pieces?” My partner can’t be that person because of the whole DADT thing. My friends don’t know about my flings. And the front desk seems inappropriate. Is there an app out there providing this kind of service? Or does someone need to create one? Seeks Discreet Call Service

riverfronttimes.com

A Tinder-like app to hook up random people who are about to hook up with other random people so the randos who met via the Tinder-like app can verify neither was murdered by the randos they met via Tinder itself? Sounds a little complicated, SDCS, and I’m not sure the market for your proposed app is big enough to attract investors. I also don’t think introducing a second potentially unreliable and/or sinister stranger into the mix is going to make your hotel hookups appreciably safer. Here’s a better idea/simpler life hack: Schedule a wake-up call for an hour or two after your Tinder rando is due to arrive. You can schedule wake-up calls for any time of day, SDCS, and in nicer hotels you can even ask the front desk to ring you personally instead of scheduling a robocall. Just tell the receptionist you’re a heavy sleeper and you need them to verify that you’re awake/alive in time for your big meeting. Or you could take a risk and confide in a friend about your open marriage, your flings and your need for a safety buddy.

Start 2016 right and subscribe to the Savage Lovecast: savagelovecast.com. mail@savagelove.net @fakedansavage on Twitter

DECEMBER 30, 2015-JANUARY 5, 2016

RIVERFRONT TIMES

Adult Entertainment 930 Adult Services

MEN 4 MEN

REAL PEOPLE REAL DESIRE REAL FUN.

Personalize Your Massage We offer full body massage, soft touch sensual and also Tantric. We have a shower available before and after your massage so come and lets work all of those stiff Kinks. Incalls. Outcalls to your hotel/motel/home/office 314-236-7060 likeitxxxhott@aol.com

T*R*A*N*S*S*E*X*U*A*L Beautiful 5’6 130 lbs. Long hair (38c-24-36) FF Looking for clean discreet fun

` ` Call Kandi ` ` 314-565-3971

Viagra!! 52 Pills for Only $99.00. Your #1 trusted provider for 10 years. Insured and Guaranteed Delivery. Call today 1-877621-7013

Try FREE: 314-932-2564 More Local Numbers: 1-800-926-6000 Ahora español Livelinks.com 18+

$10 BEST PHONE SEX

CHOOSE FROM: Busty Blondes, Ebony Hotties, Hot Coeds or Older Ladies

866-515-FOXY (3699) Only $10 per Call

$10 Buck Phone Sex Live 1 on 1 1-877-919-EASY (3279)

CALL GORGEOUS SINGLES ON THE NIGHT EXCHANGE! Live Local Chat.Try us FREE! 18+ 314-480-5505 www.nightexchange.com CALLING HOT HORNY ST.LOUISANS! Nasty talk is waiting for YOU. Join the conversation! Connect live with sexy local ladies! Try it FREE! 18+ 314-480-5505 www.nightexchange.com

FREE SEX-SLGBT

Free Code: Riverfront Times

Browse & Reply FREE!! Straight 314-739-7777 Gay & Bi 314-209-0300 Use FREE Code 3275, 18+ Private Connections Try it free! 1-708-613-2100 Normal LD Applies

Hot & Nasty Phone Sex Live 1 on 1 1-800-811-4048 18+

Sexy Swinger’s line! 1-800-785-2833 1-800-811-4048

Real Horny girls 1-800-251-4414 1-800-529-5733

Erotic Playground!!! 1-888-660-4446 1-800-990-9377

Hot & Nasty Phone Sex 1-800-960-HEAT (4328) 18+

Hot live Chat!!! 1-888-404-3330 1-800-619-Chat (2428) 18+

LAVALIFE VOICE

Talk to 1000s of EXCITING SINGLES in St. Louis! 1st Time Buyers Special Only $20 for 80 min! CALL TODAY! 314.450.7920 Must be 18+

ST.LOUIS ADULTS ARE CALLING NOW For that hot and erotic encounter! Try us FREE!! 18+ 314-480-5505 www.nightexchange.com

SUPER SEXY

STRAIGHT & BI WOMEN Your Fantasy or Fetish Fulfilled ALWAYS THE BEST! 1-800-409-MEET (6338) No connect fee 18+

Feel The Vibe! Hot Black Chat

FREE PARTYLINE! 1- 712-432-7969 18+ Normal LD Applies

AND REPLY TO ADS

Gay & BI Hot Chat! 1-708-613-2103 18+ Normal LD Applies

MEET HOT LOCAL SINGLES!

Intimate Connections 1-800-264- DATE (3283)

Call FREE! 314-932-2568 or 800-811-1633 18+ vibeline.com

FREE TO LISTEN

FUN, FLIRTY, LOCAL WOMEN Call FREE! 314-932-2564 or 800-210-1010 18+ livelinks.com

960 Phone Entertainment

HOT LOCAL SINGLES 1-800-LET-CHAT (538-2428) Check it out-browse FREE Then just 20 cents p/m 18+

LOOKING TO MEET TONIGHT? So are the sexy singles waiting for you on the line!! It doesn’t get hotter than this!!! Try it FREE!! 18+ 314-480-5505 www.nightexchange.com

$10 Buck Phone Sex Live 1 on 1 1-877-919-EASY (3279) FREE PARTYLINE! 1- 712-432-7969 18+ Normal LD Applies

Feel The Vibe! Hot Black Chat Call FREE! 314-932-2568 or 800-811-1633 18+ vibeline.com

FREE PARTYLINE! 1- 712-432-7969 18+ Normal LD Applies

FREE SEX-SLGBT

HOT LOCAL SINGLES 1-800-LET-CHAT (538-2428) Check it out-browse FREE Then just 20 cents p/m 18+ FUN, FLIRTY, LOCAL WOMEN Call FREE! 314-932-2564 or 800-210-1010 18+ livelinks.com Gay & BI Hot Chat! 1-708-613-2103 18+ Normal LD Applies Hot & Nasty Phone Sex Live 1 on 1 1-800-811-4048 18+ $10 Buck Phone Sex Live 1 on 1 1-877-919-EASY (3279)

SEXUAL HEALTH & WELLNESS HEADQUARTERS

FIND REAL GAY MEN NEAR YOU St. Louis:

(314) 209-0300 www.megamates.com 18+

South City Mid County

3552 Gravois at Grand

10210 Page Ave.

314-664-4040

314-423-8422

Open until Midnight Fri & Sat

St. Peters 1034 Venture Dr.

636-928-2144

Open until Midnight Thurs-Sat

PatriciasGiftShop.com

Dating made Easy

Meet sexy friends who really get your vibe...

Try FREE: 314-932-2568 More Local Numbers: 1-800-811-1633

FREE

to Listen & Reply to ads.

FREE CODE:

St. Louis

Riverfront Times

(314) 739.7777

vibeline.com 18+

For other local numbers:

WHO ARE YOU TRY FOR AFTER DARK? FREE

18+ www.MegaMates.com

RIVERFRONT TIMES

DECEMBER 30, 2015-JANUARY 5, 2016

riverfronttimes.com

314-932-2561

800 Health & Wellness 805 Registered Massage A New Intuitive Massage Call Natalie 314.799.2314 www.artformassage.info CMT/LMT 2003026388 Escape the Stresses of Life with a relaxing Oriental MASSAGE & Reflexology You’ll Come Away Feeling Refreshed & Rejuvenated. Call 314-972-9998

Health Therapy Massage Relax, Rejuvenate & Refresh!

Flexible Appointments Monday Thru Sunday (Walk-ins welcome) 320 Brooke’s Drive, 63042 Call Cheryl. 314-895-1616 or 314-258-2860 LET#200101083 Now Hiring...Therapists

Make Every Day Special with a Luxurious Asian Massage at Spa Chi Massage & Day Spa 109 Long Rd Chesterfield MO 636-633-2929 www.spa-chi.com

Ultimate Massage by Summer!!!! Relaxing 1 Hr Full Body Massage. Light Touch, Swedish, Deep Tissue. Daily 10am-5pm South County. 314-620-6386 Ls # 2006003746

810 Health & Wellness General ARE YOU ADDICTED TO PAIN MEDICATIONS OR HEROIN? Suboxone can help. Covered by most insurance. Free & confidential assessments. Outpatient Services. Center Pointe Hospital 314-292-7323 or 800-3455407 763 S. New Ballas Rd, Ste. 310 Viagra!! 52 Pills for Only $99.00. Your #1 trusted provider for 10 years. Insured and Guaranteed Delivery. Call today 1-888-403-9028 ARE YOU ADDICTED TO PAIN MEDICATIONS OR HEROIN? Suboxone can help. Covered by most insurance. Free & confidential assessments. Outpatient Services. Center Pointe Hospital 314-292-7323 or 800-3455407 763 S. New Ballas Rd, Ste. 310

100 Employment 105 Career/Training/Schools THE OCEAN CORP. 10840 Rockley Road, Houston, Texas 77099. Train for a new career. *Underwater Welder. Commercial Diver. *NDT/Weld Inspector. Job Placement Assistance. Financial Aid avail for those who qualify 1.800.321.0298

NEW YEAR, NEW AIRLINE CAREERS – Get training as FAA certified Aviation Technician. Financial aid for qualified students. Career placement assistance. Call Aviation Institute of Maintenance 800-725-1563 (AAN CAN)

THE OCEAN CORP. 10840 Rockley Road, Houston, Texas 77099. Train for a new career. *Underwater Welder. Commercial Diver. *NDT/Weld Inspector. Job Placement Assistance. Financial Aid avail for those who qualify 1.800.321.0298

120 Drivers/Delivery/Courier ! Drivers Needed ASAP ! Requires Class E, B or A License. S Endorsement Helpful. Must be 25 yrs or older. Will Train. ABC/Checker Cab Co CALL NOW 314-725-9550

167 Restaurants/Hotels/Clubs SERVERS needed for High Profile Events. PT and flexible scheduling avl. Background checks & Drug tests req. Also hiring for kitchen & housekeepers. Call 314.863.7400

190 Business Opportunities Avon Full Time/Part Time, $15 Fee. Call Carla: 314-665-4585 For Appointment or Details Independent Avon Rep. PAID IN ADVANCE! Make $1000 A Week Mailing Brochures From Home! No Experience Required. Helping home workers since 2001! Genuine Opportunity. Start Immediately! www. TheIncomeHub.com (AAN CAN)

400 Buy-Sell-Trade 420 Auto-Truck CASH FOR CARS: Any Car/ Truck. Running or Not! Top Dollar Paid. We Come To You! Call For Instant Offer: 1-888-420-3808 www. cash4car.com (AAN CAN) CASH FOR CARS: Any Car/ Truck. Running or Not! Top Dollar Paid. We Come To You! Call For Instant Offer: 1-888-420-3808 www. cash4car.com (AAN CAN)

500 Services 525 Legal Services

File Bankruptcy Now!

Call Angela Jansen 314-645-5900 Bankruptcyshopstl.com The choice of a lawyer is an important decision and should not be based solely on advertising.

Personal Injury, Workers Comp, DWI, Traffic 314-621-0500

ATTORNEY BRUCE E. HOPSON

The choice of a lawyer is an important decision & should not be based solely on advertising.

530 Misc. Services DISH TV Starting at $19.99/ month (for 12 mos.) SAVE! Regular Price $34.99 Call Today and Ask About FREE SAME DAY Installation! CALL Now! 888-992-1957 (AAN CAN) WANTS TO purchase minerals and other oil & gas interests. Send details to P.O. Box 13557, Denver, Co 80201

537 Adoptions PREGNANT? THINKING OF ADOPTION? Talk with caring agency specializing in matching Birthmothers with Families Nationwide. LIVING EXPENSES PAID. Call 24/7 Abby’s One True Gift Adoptions. 866-4136293. Void in Illinois/New Mexico/Indiana (AAN CAN)

525 Legal Services

File Bankruptcy Now!

Call Angela Jansen 314-645-5900 Bankruptcyshopstl.com The choice of a lawyer is an important decision and should not be based solely on advertising.

Personal Injury, Workers Comp, DWI, Traffic 314-621-0500

ATTORNEY BRUCE E. HOPSON

The choice of a lawyer is an important decision & should not be based solely on advertising.

537 Adoptions

300 Rentals

UNIVERSITY-CITY $895 314-727-1444 2BR, new kitch, bath & carpet, C/A & heat. No pets WESTPORT/LINDBERGH/PAGE $525-$575 314-995-1912 1 mo FREE! 1BR ($525) & 2BR ($575 specials) Clean, safe, quiet. Patio, laundry, great landlord! Nice Area near I-64, 270, 170, 70 or Clayton

385 Room for Rent SOUTH-CITY $130/wk+$130-security 314-277-8117 Room for rent. Everything furnished. Internet Access. 314-3417342

320 Houses for Rent

310 Roommate Services ALL AREAS ROOMMATES.COM. Lonely? Bored? Broke? Find the perfect roommate to complement your personality and lifestyle at Roommates.com! (AAN CAN)

SOUTH-CITY $440 314-223-8067 Spacious 1BR, 2nd flr, garden entrance, hdwd flrs, kitch appls, near Grand busline

CARONDELET-PARK! $575 314-309-2043 2 bedroom, appliances included, central heat/air, nice hardwood floors, w/d hookups, snow removal included, recent updates! rs-stl.com RG6MC CENTRAL-WEST-END! $500 314-309-2043 Handicapped accessible apartment, all appliances, central heat/ air, pets welcome, on site laundry! rs-stl.com RG6L9 DELMAR! $420 314-309-2043 1 bedroom, all kitchen appliances, central heat/air, newer carpet, ceiling fans, pets, off street parking, close 2 everything! rs-stl.com RG6L7

600 Music 610 Musicians Services MUSICIANS Do you have a band? We have bookings. Call (314)781-6612 for information Mon-Fri, 10:00-4:30 MUSICIANS AVAILABLE Do you need musicians? A Band? A String Quartet? Call the Musicians Association of St. Louis (314)781-6612, M-F, 10:00-4:30

610 Musicians Services MUSICIANS Do you have a band? We have bookings. Call (314)781-6612 for information Mon-Fri, 10:00-4:30 MUSICIANS AVAILABLE Do you need musicians? A Band? A String Quartet? Call the Musicians Association of St. Louis (314)781-6612, M-F, 10:00-4:30 MUSICIANS Do you have a band? We have bookings. Call (314)781-6612 for information Mon-Fri, 10:00-4:30

DOGTOWN! $550 314-309-2043 Newly updated 1 bedroom, hardwood floors, central heat/air, kitchen appliances, pets, w/d hookups, basement storage! rs-stl. com RG6MB

P.O. Box 545 • Malden, MO 63863 • 1.888.276.3860 • www.smtds.com

$45-$50 thousand the 1st year, great benefits, call SMTDS, Financial assistance available if you qualify. Free living quarters. 6 students max per class. 4 wks. 192 hours. • More driving time than any other school in the state •

SOUTH-CITY! $545 314-309-2043 Grand! Remodeled 2 bedroom house, full basement, central air, thermal windows, fenced yard w/deck, ceiling fans, pets ok! rs-stl.com RG6NC SOUTH-CITY! $650 314-309-2043 Chippewa! Updated 2 bedroom house, full basement, central heat/air, garage, fenced yard, appliances included, off street parking! rs-stl.com RG6NG SOUTH-CITY! $725 314-309-2043 Broadway! Nice 2 bed house, finished basement, garage, central heat/air, large fenced yard, kitchen appliances, ready now! rs-stl. com RG6NI SOUTH-CITY! $795 314-309-2043 Bates! Stylish 3 bedroom house, walk-out basement, central heat/air, hardwood floors, fenced yard, loaded kitchen, recent upgrades! rs-stl.com RG6NJd yard, appliances, pets, many upgrades! rs-stl.com RG5P1 ST-ANN! $700 314-309-2043 Neat & clean 2 bedroom house, garage, newer carpet, fenced yard, plenty of storage, off street parking, available now! rs-stl. com RG6NH

HAMPTON! $515 314-309-2043 All-electric 1 bedroom, central heat/air, kitchen appliances, newer carpet, close to shop & dine, off street parking! rs-stl. com RG6MA

UNIVERSITY-CITY! $600 314-309-2043 Olive! Updated 2 bed house, full basement, central heat/air, fenced yard, loaded kitchen, low deposit, month 2 month lease! rs-stl.com RG6NE

HOLLY-HILLS! $400 314-309-2043 1 bedroom, hardwood floors, central heat/air, kitchen appliances, pets, stained glass, basement storage, recently remodeled! rs-stl.com RG6L6

WESTEND! $550 314-309-2043 Skinker! Redone 2 bed house, full basement, central heat/air, hardwood floors, ceiling fans, all appliances, recent updates! rs-stl.com RG6ND

LAFAYETTE-SQUARE $685 314-968-5035 2030 Lafayette: 2BR/1BA, appls, C/A, Hdwd Fl

GRAVOIS-PARK $795 636-230-0068 3449 Minnesota: 2 BR, 1 BA, fenced in backyard, ADT security inc.

OVERLAND/ST-ANN $535-$575 314-995-1912 Near 170, 64, 70, 270. Great loc. Clean, safe, quiet 1 & 2BRs, garage RICHMOND-HEIGHTS $525-$565 (Special) 314-995-1912 1 MONTH FREE! 1BR, all elec off Big Bend, Metrolink, 40, 44, Clayton SOULARD $775 314-724-8842 Spacious 2nd flr 2BR, old world charm, hdwd flrs, yard, frplcs, off st prk, no C/A, nonsmoking bldg, storage. nprent@aol.com SOUTH CITY

$400-$850 314-7714222 Many different units www.stlrr.com 1-3 BR, no credit no problem SOUTH ST. LOUIS CITY 314-579-1201 or 636-939-3808 1, 2 & 3 BR apts for rent. www.eatonproperties.com. Sec. 8 welcome

SOUTH-CITY $400 314-707-9975 4321 Morganford: 1 BR, all electric, hdwd flrs, C/A. $425

314-277-0204

studio-townhouse, 3333 Lawn #1: range, fridge, A/C, parking SOUTH-CITY $495 314-707-9975 Grand & Bates: 1 BRs, hardwood flrs, all electric, C/A. SOUTH-CITY $525 314-223-8067 Move in Special! Spacious 1BRs, 1st flr, Hdwd Floors,C/A, new windows, W/D, lrg fenced yard, near Grand bus SOUTH-CITY $575 314-968-5035 Newly Renovated, 1BR 1BA, 3850 Park Ave Located directly behind Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital. Less than 1 mile from SLU. New Kit. Appls & Cabinets, C/A, Coin Lndry, Off-St. Pkg, CATV wired & carpet. Park Property Developers LLC SOUTH-CITY 314-504-6797 37XX Chippewa: 3 rms, 1BR. all elec exc. heat. C/A, appls, at bus stop

IF YOU DESIRE TO MAKE MORE MONEY AND NEED A NEW JOB EARNING

SOUTH-CITY! $525 314-309-2043 Gravois! Cute 1 bedroom house, custom carpet & tile, fenced yard, kitchen appliances, ceiling fans, available now! rs-stl.com RG6NB

DOWNTOWN Cityside-Apts 314-231-6806 Bring in ad & application fee waived! Gated prkng, onsite laundry. Controlled access bldgs, pool, fitness, business ctr. Pets welcome

SOUTH-CITY

SOUTHERN MISSOURI TRUCK DRIVING SCHOOL

GRAVOIS-PARK $795 636-230-0068 3449 Minnesota: 2 BR, 1 BA, fenced in backyard, ADT security inc. NORTH ST. LOUIS COUNTY 314-579-1201 or 636-939-3808 2, 3 & 4BR homes for rent. eatonproperties.com. Sec. 8 welcome

315 Condos/Townhomes/Duplexes for Rent

317 Apartments for Rent

PREGNANT? THINKING OF ADOPTION? Talk with caring agency specializing in matching Birthmothers with Families Nationwide. LIVING EXPENSES PAID. Call 24/7 Abby’s One True Gift Adoptions. 866-4136293. Void in Illinois/New Mexico/Indiana (AAN CAN)

www.LiveInTheGrove.com

NORTH ST. LOUIS COUNTY 314-579-1201 or 636-939-3808 2, 3 & 4BR homes for rent. eatonproperties.com. Sec. 8 welcome SOUTH-CITY! $525 314-309-2043 Gravois! Cute 1 bedroom house, custom carpet & tile, fenced yard, kitchen appliances, ceiling fans, available now! rs-stl.com RG6NB SOUTH-CITY! $545 314-309-2043 Grand! Remodeled 2 bedroom house, full basement, central air, thermal windows, fenced yard w/deck, ceiling fans, pets ok! rs-stl.com RG6NC SOUTH-CITY! $650 314-309-2043 Chippewa! Updated 2 bedroom house, full basement, central heat/air, garage, fenced yard, appliances included, off street parking! rs-stl.com RG6NG SOUTH-CITY! $725 314-309-2043 Broadway! Nice 2 bed house, finished basement, garage, central heat/air, large fenced yard, kitchen appliances, ready now! rs-stl. com RG6NI SOUTH-CITY! $795 314-309-2043 Bates! Stylish 3 bedroom house, walk-out basement, central heat/air, hardwood floors, fenced yard, loaded kitchen, recent upgrades! rs-stl.com RG6NJd yard, appliances, pets, many upgrades! rs-stl.com RG5P1 ST-ANN! $700 314-309-2043 Neat & clean 2 bedroom house, garage, newer carpet, fenced yard, plenty of storage, off street parking, available now! rs-stl. com RG6NH

575

SOUTH-CITY! $440 314-309-2043 All Utilities Paid! Nice apartment, central heat/air, all kitchen appliances, pets welcome, flexible on credit, ready to rent! rs-stl. com RG6L8 ST. CHARLES COUNTY

314-579-1201 or 636-9393808 1 & 2 BR apts for rent. www.eatonproperties.com. Sec. 8 welcome

ST. JOHN $495-$595 314-423-3106 Special! 1BR.$495 & 2BR.$595. Near 170 & St.Charles Rock Rd

riverfronttimes.com

DECEMBER 30, 2015-JANUARY 5, 2016

RIVERFRONT TIMES

314-754-5966

MUSIC RECORD SHOP

Looking to sell or trade your metal, punk, rap or rock LP collection. Call us. DATING MADE EASY... LOCAL SINGLES! Listen & Reply FREE! 314-739-7777 FREE PROMO CODE: 9512 Telemates

EarthCircleRecycling.com 314-664-1450

Earth Circle’s mission is to creatively assist businesses and residents with their recycling efforts while providing the friendliest and most reliable service in the area. Call Today!

Join the RFT Email lists for an inside look on Concert listings, ticket sales, events & more! www.Riverfronttimes.com to sign up

Like the Riverfront Times? Make it official. www.facebook.com/riverfronttimes

Made You Look!

Get the Attention of our 461,000+ Readers Call 314-754-5940 for More Info

PAINLESS TATTOO REMOVAL SEE OUR AD ON PAGE 7 OR CALL 866-626-8346

Personal Injury, Workers Comp, DWI, Traffic 314-621-0500

ATTORNEY BRUCE E. HOPSON

The choice of a lawyer is an important decision and should not be based solely on advertising.

South City Scooters

Great Selection of Scooters! Sales & Service. @ the corner of Connecticut & Morgan Ford. 314.664.2737

www.LiveInTheGrove.com

MUSIC RECORD SHOP

Looking to sell or trade your metal, punk, rap or rock LP collection. Call us.

DATING MADE EASY... LOCAL SINGLES! Listen & Reply FREE! 314-739-7777 FREE PROMO CODE: 9512 Telemates

EarthCircleRecycling.com 314-664-1450

Earth Circle’s mission is to creatively assist businesses and residents with their recycling efforts while providing the friendliest and most reliable service in the area. Call Today!

Ultimate Massage by

Summer! SWEDISH & DEEP TISSUE FULL BODY MASSAGE Daily 10 AM-5PM

South County Lemay Area

314-620-6386

RIVERFRONT TIMES

DECEMBER 30, 2015-JANUARY 5, 2016

riverfronttimes.com

# 2006003746