OPENS NOVEMBER 24TH
A NEW HOLIDAY TR ADITION GREEN VALLEY RANCH
AN EXCITING NEW EXPERIENCE THAT THE WHOLE FAMILY CAN ENJOY A PERFECT DESTINATION TO CREATE HOLIDAY MEMORIES. LOCATED IN THE GREEN VALLEY RANCH BACKYARD. Open daily during the holiday season, including the ice rink featuring real ice, holiday treats, Saturdays with Santa and a holiday lounge area.
$20
PER PERSON INCLUDES SKATE RENTAL
FREE PARKING
For hours of operation and other information
wintersvillage.com
2300 PASEO VERDE PARKWAY HENDERSON, NV 89052 All rights reserved. © 2017 Station Casinos, Las Vegas, NV
IT’S SHOWTIME!
TOP NAME ENTERTAINMENT | NOV - AUG
TAYLOR HICKS RED ROCK ★ DECEMBER 8
BBR LAS VEGAS PRESENTS ALICE RED ROCK ★ DECEMBER 11
TIDINGS OF JAZZ & JOY
WITH KEIKO MATSUI & EUGE GROOVE
BOULDER ★ DECEMBER 16 ON SALE NOW
CHRISTMAS WITH THE CELTS
THE KING SYMPHONIC STARRING SHEA ARENDER
BOULDER ★ DECEMBER 22
GREEN VALLEY ★ JANUARY 6
MY FAVORITE MURDER RED ROCK ★ JANUARY 20
JOHN WAITE SANTA FE ★ JANUARY 20
THE ROBERT CRAY BAND BOULDER ★ DECEMBER 2
DAVE COULIER SUNSET ★ JANUARY 19
DENNIS WISE
KING FOR A NIGHT
SANTA FE ★ JANUARY 27
SOLD OUT
ANA GABRIEL PALMS ★ NOVEMBER 25
HOLIDAY HAVOC PALMS ★ DECEMBER 11
NIKKI HILL BOULDER ★ NOVEMBER 30
COCO MONTOYA BOULDER ★ DECEMBER 7
NIALL HORAN
W/ MAREN MORRIS
PALMS ★ AUGUST 18
RICK ESTRIN & THE NIGHTCATS
BOULDER ★ JANUARY 4
FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TICKETING INFO VISIT STATIONCASINOSLIVE.COM TICKETS CAN BE PURCHASED AT ANY STATION CASINO BOARDING PASS REWARDS CENTER, THE FIESTAS, BY LOGGING ON TO STATIONCASINOSLIVE.COM OR BY CALLING 1-800-745-3000. DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY/VIDEO IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED AT ALL VENUES. MANAGEMENT RESERVES ALL RIGHTS. © 2017 STATION CASINOS, LLC.
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VAL 11/24ID– 11/26/1 7
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ON THE COVER Clay scene by Ian Racoma Photograph by Mikayla Whitmore
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06 las vegas weekly 11.23.17
29 WED., 7 P.M.
Andrew Wessels reading at UNLV Each semester, UNLV’s creative writing program and Black Mountain Institute bring home one of their own. It’s a unique opportunity for a successful alumnus to return to his or her old stomping ground and reconnect with the Las Vegas audience. This week, writer-editor Andrew Wessels will be back on campus for a reading and discussion. UNLV’s creative writing program has always focused on international literature, and Wessels is no exception. The poet, essayist, translator, book designer and teacher lives in both LA and Istanbul, and the pull between American and Turkish culture has enriched and inspired his work. His translations of the works of Turkish poet Nurduran Duman were published in the chapbook Semi Circle in 2016; his first book of poetry, A Turkish Dictionary, was published this spring. Entropy magazine describes the latter as, “Part travelogue, part historical journey and part love poem, Wessels’ beautiful book evokes a landscape in which every version of the place now called Istanbul coexists, where nothing is erased by time or war or death.” Free, Beverly Rogers Literature & Law Building (Room 101), RSVP at black mountaininstitute. org. –C. Moon Reed
Trust Us e v er y t h i n g y o u a b s o lu t ely, p o s i t i v ely m u s t g e t o u t a n d d o t h i s wee k
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FRIDAY, 8 P.M.
Jack Evan Johnson, Zach Ryan and the Wanderers & Ted Rader at BUNKHOUSE SALOON No, you’re not seeing things. Head down to the Bunkhouse for a local rock ’n’ roll reunion of sorts, featuring three musicians who once ruled Las Vegas’ music scene. Ted Rader, formerly of The Mad Caps, recently released neo-psychedelic album Tabula Rasa on Bandcamp—head to iamtedrader.com to give it a spin before catching him live with the Magical Mystery Detox Rainbow Band, his first show since moving back from Portland in June. He’ll be joined by Nashville friends and fellow Vegas expats Jack Evan Johnson and Zach Ryan (formerly of The Rooks), who’s playing with latest band The Wanderers. If you missed Johnson perform with Dude City and/or Dangerboner at September’s Life Is Sh*t festival—or you missed Ryan’s bluesy appearance with Benjamin D. Hale at the Smith Center last year—now’s the time to make amends. No telling if all three will ever be on the same stage again. $10, 702-982-1764. –Leslie Ventura
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WEDNESDAY, 8 P.M.
UNSANE AT BEAUTY BAR This NYC-birthed trio has stayed singular of purpose since the early 1990s—blasting out unforgiving, unrelenting noise-rock, adorned with fittingly blood-stained cover art. Pummeling September album Sterilize, supported by the band on a tour stopping in Downtown Las Vegas, makes no exception. With Plaque Marks, $13. –Spencer Patterson
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THRU JANUARY 31
27 THRU NOVEMBER 29
HELLO FROM JAPAN AT DISCOVERY CHILDREN’S MUSEUM
FALL JAZZ FESTIVAL AT UNLV’S BLACK BOX THEATRE
Explore the old and new worlds of Tokyo at this highly interactive exhibit, where the whole family can sing karaoke, play with sushi kits, hang wishes on a wishing tree, design mascots and more. Tuesday-Sunday, times vary, $10.50-$14.50, discovery kidslv.org. –Mike Prevatt
Here’s a great opportunity to catch the ever-impressive players and instructors of UNLV’s Jazz Studies program, as seven ensembles perform over three nights. Bonus: Renowned multi-woodwind specialist Bob Sheppard guests with Jazz Ensemble II on Tuesday. 7:30 p.m., $8-$10 per show. –Mike Prevatt
07 las vegas weekly 11.23.17
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& November 25
Howie Mandel & Puddles Pity Party at the Mirage This dual-billed event is the very definition of a show with “cross-generational appeal.” Older fans will show up for Mandel, a likeable and funny observational comic who appeared regularly on Jay Leno’s Tonight Show, starred on NBC’s acclaimed medical drama St. Elsewhere and provided the voice of Gizmo the mogwai in Gremlins. But millennial and Gen Y fans may turn out in numbers for Puddles Pity Party (born Mike Geier), the nearly-7-foottall sad clown and goldenvoiced cabaret singer who rode his YouTube covers of Lorde, David Bowie and Nine Inch Nails songs straight onto America’s Got Talent—presumably where he and Mandel forged their more perfect union. Puddles has performed in Vegas before, most notably at El Cortez, the Bunkhouse and the Smith Center. This Mirage show, however, puts him where he’s always belonged—on the Strip, with his mopey name in lights. 10 p.m., $44-$65. –Geoff Carter
Puddles and friend. (Courtesy Photo)
08 las vegas weekly 11.23.17
SUPPORT NETWORK
the inter
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Sister House Collective stresses community over industry By Leslie Ventura
F
rom handmade blankets and recycled paper products to art made by local artists, there’s a gift for everyone on your Holiday shopping list at Sister House Collective. But the consciously curated shop in Downtown Las Vegas is more than just a place to purchase crafts and home goods. It’s a space 28-year-old founder Ashley Ayala hopes will foster positive relationships—within the Las Vegas community and beyond. “I have seen this concept work in California and Oregon and Washington, and I didn’t know if we had anything like that in Las Vegas,” Ayala says. “I really liked the [idea] of small-business owners supporting things that were made locally, or if they were made globally, made in an ethical way.” Ayala, who grew up in Las Vegas, moved back to the city from Northern California in 2015 and soon began brainstorming ideas for Sister House Collective. She knew she wanted to help women who were victims of sex trafficking, along with people in developing countries, but she quickly discovered the “hoops you have to jump through to import things.” Ayala ended up turning to U.S.-based companies who were already working within the global marketplace—fair-trade businesses she trusted and felt good supporting. One of those companies, Good Paper, provides jobs to trafficking survivors in the Philippines and those orphaned by disease in Rwanda. Another company, Asha, supports women in Calcutta, India, one of the poorest areas in that country. As Black Friday approaches, Ayala hopes more people think locally and turn to Small Business Saturday as an ethical, less-corporate option. Sister House Collective will open its doors with three family yoga sessions starting at 9 a.m, followed by an event during which the public can meet some of the artists in the community. Ayala says the event aligns with one of Sister House’s core values: “supporting our local economy and the locals here that are working hard to impact our city in a positive way.” Small Business Saturday Market at Sister House Collective: November 25, 1 p.m., free entry, 1110 Fremont St.
The start of a new conversation at UNLV Like most of us, UNLV senior Robert Gipson II is fed up with political polarization. “People can’t engage one another about contentious issues,” the 24-year-old criminal justice major says. Unlike most of us, Gipson has taken action to make things better, by founding the United Conversations Network, a student organization that
aims to be an open space for discussing ideas in a respectful manner. The first event (November 27 at 4 p.m. inside UNLV’s Student Union) will center on psychopathy and trauma after the Route 91 Harvest tragedy and will include a talk by psychology professor Stephen Benning. Right now, it’s only open to UNLV community members, but Gipson hopes to eventually expand it to the general public. For more information, email unitedconversationsunlv@gmail.com. –C. Moon Reed
rsection A ND L IF E M E ET
09 LAS VEGAS WEEKLY 11.23.17
GET SMART There’s much more to “smart city” technology than self-driving buses
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(Photo Illustration by Corlene Byrd/Staff)
GET A 3D DOLL OF YOURSELF AT CASHMAN PHOTOS The contraption resembles a flying saucer. Tourists stop to look, even though they’re walking through the mecca of overstimulation that is Miracle Mile Shops. I step inside, and in one flash, 128 cameras take a 365-degree scan of me. An eight-picture rotating GIF of myself arrives in my email, ready to be put into 3D physical form. “Can I get a superhero body instead of my own?” I joke. Not yet, but soon. The technology is still cutting edge, and has only recently become affordable. A 1/15th-scale figurine costs $99; a Lego head is $29. Kevin Kopec, the director of thrill photos for Cashman Photos, has been working on bringing this photo concession to Vegas for several years. It finally arrived a month ago, and the effect is almost eerie because it looks so real. Says Kopec: “It’s the new dimension in making memories.” –C. Moon Reed
BY GEOFF CARTER
The machine revolution has already begun. Every time you ask a question of your Amazon Echo or use your phone to adjust your Nest thermostat, you’re mingling with “the Internet of Things,” the network of devices that employ sensors, software and Internet connectivity to do the things you’re unable or unwilling to do yourself. And it’s not just our homes that are becoming automated—the world outside is following suit. For example: The City of Las Vegas has been testing “smart city” technology in our Downtown “Innovation District” since February 2016, but you probably didn’t realize this until a couple of weeks ago, when a selfdriving bus began rolling around Fremont East. “Smart city” tech is a tough thing to show off, considering it’s designed to be invisible. “You shouldn’t realize it’s there; you should only be aware of the benefits that come from it,” says Michael Sherwood, IT director for the City of Las Vegas. But that autonomous Navya shuttle—unfairly maligned for “crashing” on its first official day of service, when in fact a human-driven truck backed into it—is only a small part of an ambitious program that might one day regulate the entire Valley’s traffic, pedestrian crossings, parking and more. It can even let maintenance workers know when a trash can is close to overflowing. Vegas’ Innovation District—mapped out at the innovate.vegas website—is currently testing out technologies that adhere to one or more “pillars,” Sherwood says: “Public safety, economic growth, mobility, education and social benefit—anything that speaks to the problems of homelessness or the digital divide.” Some of the tech comes from well-known companies: T-Mobile has sensors taking environmental measurements along 3rd Street, while Vehicle-to-Infrastructure (V2I) tech allows cars to “talk” with Downtown traffic signals, a process Audi has already tested. But Sherwood says the Innovation District isn’t just a tech industry proving ground; he wants to hear from anyone who has a viable smart city idea. If that sounds like you, contact the City through the Innovate Vegas website. (And you’re invited to use the City’s own data to develop your smart city tech: Visit opendata. lasvegasnevada.gov to see everything from city maps to the fiscal year 2018 city budget.) Yes, the machine revolution is imminent, but there’s no reason we can’t use it to find a parking space.
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CUSTOM NEON SIGN BY PAUL NEON SIGN #3 Indulge in the ultimate Vegas gift: neon! A custom design on a sign that’s two-to-three feet wide will set you back $300-$600. Order at least a week or two out. paulsneonsignslv.com.
SUCCULENTS Give some green with container gardens and terrariums. They’re custom made-to-order by local gardener Laura Bailey Hughes, who provides plants, centerpieces and moss walls for the hippest spots in town. Order before December 20 to receive by the holidays. $50+ (including delivery), madpotterlv.com.
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MOB MUSEUM MOBSTER BOBBLEHEAD DOLLS Bugsy Siegel, Charles “Lucky” Luciano, Al Capone and Meyer Lansky were cunning, dangerous men who robbed, extorted and killed to create criminal empires. Today, they’re goofy dolls with huge heads mounted on springs, suitable for all ages. Goes to show ya. $20 apiece, shop.themobmuseum.org.
COVER STORY WEEKLY | 11.23.17
TAKE A HIKE VEGAS GUIDED HIKES Send your loved ones on personalized hikes to the Valley of Fire, Lake Mead and Frenchman Mountain. Water, snacks and rides to the trailhead are provided. $120 per person, takeahikevegas.com.
(Yasmina Chavez/Staff)
TRAPEZE LAS VEGAS LESSONS Get your friends a gift certificate for aerial artistry classes and watch them soar. The facility features an outdoor flying trapeze and an indoor studio, with options for all skill levels. We recommend starting with Aerial Arts 101 ($50). trapezelasvegas.com.
SOMETHING FUNCTIONAL AT ONE FORTY THREE From lamps and guitar hooks to an iPad or tablet stand, local furniture and design warehouse/ website One Forty Three has plenty of gifts for under $100. onefortythree.com.
ELECTRIC SELF-GUIDED BIKE TOUR OF RED ROCK CANYON Red Rock Canyon is lovely viewed from a car but breathtaking experienced from a bike. USA Bike Tours’ half-day, self-guided tour makes it easy with electric-assist motorized bikes that power through the Canyon’s uphill twists and turns with ease. $97, usabiketours.com.
SEAN WEI MAH RATTLES The actor, artist, spiritual practitioner and teacher from the Cree Tribe crafts shamanic rattles and drumsticks to be used in ceremonies or to “guide and heal the people they are given to.” $45-$155, etsy.com/shop/ therattlemaker.
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HERNAN VALENCIA CONCERT POSTERS Weezer, Ray Lamontagne, Dum Dum Girls—the Vegas-based illustrator has designed lots of beautiful show keepsakes that’ll take your walls from drab to fab. $10-$50, hernanvalencia.bigcartel.com.
ART PRINTS BY JERRY MISKO The local artist has a singular gift for translating Vegas’ neon-lit spectacle into something you can frame and hang on your wall. And while his commissioned works can cost thousands (and there’s a waiting list), his art prints are affordable and beautifully made. $60+, jerrymisko.com.
HOME MEANS NEVADA POSTER PRINT BY ABBIE ILLUSTRATIONS Sister House Collective resident artist Abbie Paulhus designs whimsical posters, prints, cards and more. We especially love her adorable 8-by-10-inch “Home Means Nevada” and “Vegas” prints. Proceeds from the latter go to the Las Vegas Victims’ Fund. $15, abbiepaulhus.com.
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NEVADA COIN RING This is the Silver State, so why not give your beloved a custom silver ring made from the Nevada State Quarter ($24-$38). Choose a polished or antique finish. For an extra fee, get the punched-out center of the quarter as a pendant. midnightjo.com.
(Mikayla
Whitmo
LOCALLY MADE JEWELRY AT HAVENCRAFT This nonprofit curio shop, apothecary and pagan and interfaith community center offers a wealth of treasures for the intrepid shopper. Eclectic jewelry fits all budgets, from $2 “wish” necklaces to intricate wireweaving pieces by bartender and artist James Belcher ($45-$180). Studio 246 at the Arts Factory, 702-476-6111.
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RETRO VEGAS T-SHIRTS Good luck finding quality Vegas duds in a Strip souvenir store. Instead, head over to the Neon Museum’s gift shop, where you’ll find a variety of tasteful, retro tees depicting classic Vegas properties like the Stardust, the Mint and the Silver Slipper. $25-$30, 770 Las Vegas Blvd. N.
FULL DESERT WEIRDO RINGS Show your state pride with a one-of-a-kind, handmade “Nevadatude” ring—or sport your love of the Wild Wild West with a cactus ring that’s guaranteed to draw compliments. $30, etsy.com/ shop/fulldesertweirdo.
re/Staff
(Neon Museum Store/Courtesy)
WEEKLY | 11.23.17
CIVILIAN CLOTHING CO. VEGAS STREETS T-SHIRT Show your local cred by gifting this limited-edition, 100-percent cotton Tee. Pick it up at the new boutique Molotov Supply Co. in Container Park. $25, buycvln.com. (Mikayla Whitmore/Staff)
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(Mikayla Whitmore/Staff)
WEEKLY | 11.23.17
IT’S ON ME Give anything from a slice of pizza to a once-in-a-lifetime chef’s table dinner, thanks to local gifting company ItsOnMe, which just added a selection of unique-toVegas culinary experiences to its convenient offerings. Itson.me.
TIKI BANDIT MUG There isn’t a stinker among the original ceramic mugs sold at Frankie’s Tiki Room, and none screams Vegas cool like Tiki Bandit, the iconic—and frequently sold out— slot machine edition by mug sculptor and illustrator Squid. $20, frankiestikiroom.com/merch.
Whitmo
re/Staff
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A SUBSCRIPTION TO THE BELIEVER A literary magazine by design, The Believer delivers much more—personal essays, journalism, satire, photography and even comics, contributed by Nick Hornby, Lena Dunham and others. And now, UNLV’s Black Mountain Institute publishes it right here in Las Vegas. $48 per year, believermag.com.
(Mikayla
NEVADA CUTTING/SERVING BOARD Home means Nevada, so naturally this bamboo board shaped like the Silver State belongs in a fellow Nevadan’s home. $20, bedbathandbeyond.com.
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VESTA COFFEE BEANS This holiday season, give the gift of caffeine with a bag of the Downtown shop’s house-roasted beans. Because friends don’t let friends drink Folgers. $14-$20, vestacoffee.com.
THE STRIP: LAS VEGAS AND THE ARCHITECTURE OF THE AMERICAN DREAM BY STEFON AL The resort corridor of Las Vegas Boulevard has been called a lot of things over the years: a wonderland, an abomination, America in microcosm. Al, an architect and urban designer, offers a compelling look the myth and reality of our famous street through the lens of its architecture. $35, mitpress.mit.edu/books/strip.
GROWLERS Growlers are literally two gifts in one. There’s the bottle itself—a reusable souvenir from a beloved local spot—and the good stuff inside: microbrewery beer from Hop Nuts, Tenaya Creek, Ellis Island and others, or cold-brew coffee from the likes of Vesta and Mothership. Prices vary.
VEGAS TABLOID BY P MOSS Crooked executives. A diminutive Elvis impersonator. A raunchy ringmaster with a crazy plan. Author P Moss brings them together in a page-turning Vegas noir packed with the humor, Vegas history and weird sex that’s become his trademark. $15, pmoss.com.
BLUE MOON BAKERY TREATS LA expat Shayanne Nelson creates delicious and beautiful plant-based goodies. Everything on her online menu is vegan, from salted caramel apple Pop-Tarts to maple brown sugar cookies to pumpkin cinnamon rolls. Ship to your friends … and yourself. Prices vary, bleumoonbakery.com.
BASE CAMP LAS VEGAS: 101 HIKES IN THE SOUTHWEST BY DEBORAH WALL This book is made for Las Vegas readers. Avid hiker and local author Deborah Wall has organized her guidebook by distance from the Strip. With gorgeous photos, maps, area histories and more, it’s perfect for the reluctant outdoorsman and nature-lover alike. $25, basecampguides.com.
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THE WORLD IS WATCHING Local label SquidHat Records asked bands for “anti” song submissions—“anti-Trump, anti-government, anti-wall, anti-racism, anti-war, antigluten,” and this 14-track, red, white and blue vinyl record (with six bonus download cuts) contains the results, by acts like False Cause, K. Kilfeather and Happy Campers. $20, squidhat. bigcartel.com.
COVER STORY WEEKLY | 11.23.17
MARK STOERMER’S FILTHY APES AND LIONS BOX SET The Killers’ bassist recently churned out his second solo album in two years, this one available in a generous package that includes various artwork pieces, a journal and a signed/numbered LP. But act quick: Only 100 were made. $58, markastoermer. myshopify.com.
RUNNING IN PLACE 7-INCHES The Vegas record label launched by DIY scene proponent Bobby Franks has only been running a few months, but it’s got one record pressed—lo-fi punk Brett Vee’s Derivative Nation—with a piece of self-titled wax from post-punk favorite Dark Black up for pre-order. $6, runninginplacerecords.com.
PUNKS IN VEGAS T-SHIRTS PunksInVegas.com hosts a ton of essential content—like its live-recorded Stripped Down Sessions and its Vegas Archive, which preserves defunct bands’ music. The least you can do is send its cool-ass merch to out-of-town pals so they can rep it worldwide. $10, punksinvegas.storenvy.com.
(Mikayla Whitmore/Staff)
CRYSTAL METHOD TICKETS The Vegas-bred electronic act plays a rare club gig December 23 at Beauty Bar. What better way to celebrate the holidays than by getting up close to a local legend? $20, ticketbat.com.
UNLV JAZZ’S RAIL TRAILS/ LATIN JOURNEY III UNLV’s Jazz Studies program is one of the best of its kind in the country. It demonstrates its musical precision and flair on this double-disc collection, which showcases student musicians from every corner of the program. $20, 702-895-2550.
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VEGAS STRONG POSTER Local artists and businesses have banded together to offer some amazing Vegas Strong items, like this poster by Jimi Ramirez and Tawny Ann De La Peña. Proceeds are matched by local biz Vapetasia and then doubled by the Zappos’ CrowdRise Victim’s Fund. $10, creativecollabs.co/vegas.
VEGAS GOLDEN KNIGHTS GEAR The NHL club is the hottest ticket in town, so it’s no surprise we’re starting to see more hats, shirts and jerseys around town all the time. Go nextlevel with a few of our favorites—the 6-ounce silver flask ($20), OYO’s 73-piece build-yourown zamboni ($25) and the right-on-time stocking ($17). shop.nhl.com.
LAS VEGAS LIGHTS FC SEASON TICKETS Skip the merch and cut to the chase. Solid seats are available for around $10 per game for the Valley’s sparkling new soccer team. $200-$1,000. lasvegaslightsfc.com/tickets.
MANDALAY BAY RESTAURANT GIFT CARDS We’ve all heard: Mandalay Bay has been hurting post-October 1, to the point where the hotel has had to lay off some staff. Show your support by stuffing some foodie love into your loved ones’ stockings in the form of credit at primo spots like Stripsteak, Kumi, Rx Boiler Room, Border Grill and more. mandalaybay. com/en/restaurants
HOCKEY KIT FOR KIDS Have the little champs in your life caught Golden Knights fever? Get them this starter kit that includes a 32inch netted goal (with shooting target), a ball and two mini-sticks. $40, dickssporting goods.com.
(Mikayla Whitmore/Staff)
JASON ALDEAN WE WON’T BACK DOWN T-SHIRT The country singer, who was onstage at the Route 91 Harvest fest when the shooting began, covered Tom Petty’s “I Won’t Back Down” and customprinted these black shirts to benefit victims, with all proceeds going to the Direct Impact Fund. $35, store.jasonaldean.com.
TICKETS FOR AN UPCOMING HOUSE OF BLUES SHOW Another way to stay #MandalayStrong: making sure HOB fills up for shows by Pennywise (December 31), Marilyn Manson (January 12-13), Santana (multiple dates) and more. houseofblues. com/lasvegas
RAIDERS ORNAMENTS Las Vegas won’t get its NFL team until at least 2020, but that doesn’t mean your football-loving friends can’t start hanging their support from the tree now. Assuming they dig silver and black … $3-$30, nflshop.com.
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Book your flight by calling (702) 660.6546 or for more information visit www.cirrusav.com
SUN, NOV 26 ................RVLTN PRESENTS SNAILS
FRI & SAT.........................GARY ALLAN DEC 8 & 9
SAT, DEC 2 .....................PATTON OSWALT
MON, DEC 18 ...............MONDAYS DARK WITH MARK SHUNOCK
THE SHELL TOUR W/HEROBUST + MORE
FOUR YEAR ANNIVERSARY SHOW
WED, DEC 6 ..................X107.5’S HOLIDAY HAVOC PRESENTED BY DOLLAR LOAN CENTER FEATURING RISE AGAINST, PORTUGAL. THE MAN, ROYAL BLOOD, NEW POLITICS AND MONDO COZMO
SUN, JAN 7.....................MARKIPLIER’S YOU’RE WELCOME TOUR SAT, JAN 20...................THE NATIONAL MAR 16 & 17 ...................KENNY CHESNEY TRIP AROUND THE SUN TOUR 2018 PRESENTED BY BLUE CHAIR BAY RUM
FOR VIP PACKAGES & RESERVATIONS CONTACT JOINTVIP@HRHVEGAS.COM OR 702.693.5220 AXS.COM
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888-9-AXS-TIX
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HARDROCKHOTEL.COM/THEJOINT
N O V E M B E R
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about us
g r e e n s p u n m e d i a
g r o u p
Publisher Mark De Pooter (mark.depooter@gmgvegas.com) Editor Brock Radke (brock.radke@gmgvegas.com) Staff Writer Leslie Ventura (leslie.ventura@gmgvegas.com) Creative Director Liz Brown (liz.brown@gmgvegas.com) Art Director Corlene Byrd (corlene.byrd@gmgvegas.com) Designer Ian Racoma Contributors Jim Begley, Sarah Feldberg, Jason Harris, Deanna Rilling Circulation Director Ron Gannon Art Director of Advertising and Marketing Services Sean Rademacher CEO, Publisher & Editor Brian Greenspun Chief Operating Officer Robert Cauthorn Group Publisher Gordon Prouty Editorial Page Editor Ric Anderson Las Vegas Weekly Editor Spencer Patterson 2275 Corporate Circle, Suite 300 Henderson, NV 89074 lasvegasweekly.com/industry lasvegasweekly.com /lasvegasweekly /lasvegasweekly /lasvegasweekly
TUE NOV 28
MIAMI BEACH, FL WALL MIAMI
WED NOV 29
NEW YORK, NY
MARQUEE NEW YORK
THU NOV 30
NEW YORK, NY
PAUL'S CASABLANCA
SAT DEC 02
CHICAGO, IL
BOUNCE SPORTING CLUB CHI
on the cover
Lionel Richie Courtesy photo
S.K.A.M. ARTIST HOLIDAY PARTY MON DEC 04
HOLLYWOOD, CA
DAVE & BUSTERS HOLLYWOOD
T o
a d v e r t i s e
Call 702-990-2550 or email advertising@gmgvegas.com. For Bookings: fredo@skamartist.com Download Sizzle from the app store for an exclusive Blackout Artists experience >
For customer service questions, call 702-990-8993.
TWO EVENTS, ONE NIGHT.
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 1 free concert
AT canned food donations encouraged to benefit nevada childhood cancer foundation
exclusive chef dinner
AT
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BOYZ II ME N
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MIRAGE
Vegas locals with holiday visitors know where to turn for a night of music that will satisfy everybody. The Philly soul singers’ Strip residency works every time.
24 fri
25 sat
hyde
DJ D- MIL E S intrigue
DAV I D C LU Tc H
26 sun
drai’s
marquee
tao
27 mon
the joint
S NAILS
28
xs
THE CHAI NSMOKER S
RU CKUS
E NFE RNO
tue
hyde
DJ C-L.A.
DJ E SCO
hyde
DJ KO NFLIKT
marquee
VI C E
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the chelsea
LEE BR I CE
Boyz II Men/Courtesy; DJ Franzen by Andrew Dang/Tony Tran Photography; S t e e l P a n t h e r / C o u r t e s y ; E r ic D - L u x b y R o n H o l d e n / C o u r t e s y
big this week
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ST E E L PANT H E R
DRAI’S
Franny’s taking a trip from Sunday to Friday this week, holding down Drai’s with hip-hop beats to get the weekend started.
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HOUSE OF BLUES
Work off that Thanksgiving meal with a little head-banging and horn-throwing with the hair-metal faves at Mandalay Bay.
E RIC D-LUX
sat
24
sat
fri
DJ F R ANZE N
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TAO
Eric D-Lux has been spinning at Tao for almost as long as Tao has been in Las Vegas. Watch him run the room again Saturday night.
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D E E P
D I R T Y H
S n a i l s b r i n g s h i s
s l u d g y
s o u n d s t h e
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J o i n t
ip-hop and dirty bass heads unite: Snails is sliding into Vegas. Not familiar with the trap-loving gastropod? He’s been referred to as a “twisted trap monstrosity” by Billboard, and his debut fall album The Shell has received plenty of accolades for its blend of U.K. garage and sludgy, grimy, froglike bass. Give “Into the Light” a spin, and you’ll see what we mean. Since first appearing on Kannibalen Records in 2012, the Montreal-based DJ and producer born Frédérik Durand has garnered a devout following—“snail heads” indebted to Durand’s deep drops and glitchy,
turbulent samples. It’s like the thick, soul-crushing sounds of dubstep, but on acid. And it’s lovingly referred to as “vomitstep” by his legions of fans— wheich grew in 2015, when he collaborated with Skrillex and Diplo on their Jack Ü project. Recently he signed to Skrillex’s own OSWLA imprint. Durand started out playing in metal bands and listening to bands like Slayer as a teenager, but he was ultimately drawn to producing electronic music, which allowed him to create even noisier, louder sounds. “When I play, I want to play metal songs, and when I produce, I want
to go hard—do some riffs, make something similar,” Durand told Billboard in 2016. “I come from the background, and I feel like a big part of bass music is in that genre. When I see all the people head bang and break their neck … that brings me back.” RVLTN Presents Snails at the Joint at the Hard Rock Hotel, November 26. –Leslie Ventura
Courtesy Photo
A N D
LEFTOVERS? DIDN’T THINK SO...
702.732.5277
legend status
A L L
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ionel Richie is embarking on a project sure to strengthen his Las Vegas connections. After years of legal negotiations with the estate of Sammy Davis Jr., a team of producers including Richie has finally received the green light to develop a feature film based on Davis’ extraordinary life, a movie likely to detail Davis’ many years as a Vegas headliner. “It’s an honor for me to bring the life of one of my idols and friends to the screen. … I couldn’t be happier to be moving forward on this passion project,” Richie said earlier this year. He’s following in his idol’s footsteps now. The hitmaking former frontman of The Commodores launched his “All
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the Hits” residency at the Axis at Planet Hollywood Resort in April 2016, and he’s back on the Strip this month with what has become one of the theater’s most popular productions. Richie truly has “All the Hits” and knows members of his audience have memories tied to each legendary track. His arsenal of slower tunes are among the best-loved love songs of all time, from “Hello” to “Three Times a Lady.” But if all the headliners at the Axis are required to turn their shows into a massive dance party—and that appears to be the case—Richie is more than up to the task. After all, you don’t sell more than 100 million albums on ballads alone. Richie gets everyone out of their seats with “All Night Long (All Night)” and
t h e
A x i s
“Dancing on the Ceiling,” then pushes the idea of an arena-wide sing-along to the next level with anthemic hits “Say You, Say Me,” and the classic “Easy.” This show has all the elements to become one of the all-time greats on the Strip, perhaps powerful enough to place Richie in the same Las Vegas legend category as Sammy Davis Jr. Lionel Richie: All the Hits at the Axis at Planet Hollywood, November 29-December 16. –Brock Radke
g h T l o n g
D e n i s e T r u s c e ll o / C o u r t e s y
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XS mar s h me l lo
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Photographs courtesy Wynn Nightlife
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Download Sizzle from the app store for an exclusive Brooklyn Bowl experience >
architect
P a i n
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C u l i n a r y l e a d e r C h u r c h a
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J o h n n y c h a r t s c o u r s e
C
ook Fast.” Those words, tattooed across a faux Converse logo, are the symbol of a small group of culinary professionals who have greatly impacted Las Vegas dining. Among their members is Johnny Church, who affectionately refers to them as a “street gang.” And he laughs at the impression some people get from it.
s s i o n k i t c h e n
Photograph by Christopher DeVargas
t h e
“It’s not about cooking fast,” Aureole’s executive chef says. “It’s like the whole sailor thing, like ‘hold fast.’ We all came up in kitchens together, we all worked on the line together and we had a camaraderie, a brotherhood-sisterhood sort of thing.” Church says the phrase dates back to the kitchens of both the Stirling Club—formerly at Turnberry Place—and Andre’s, where the group originally toiled together. And, as many of these stories go, the first Cook Fast tattoo involved a night of drinking, during which Church’s exwife inked a group of inebriated chefs including Las Vegas Country Club’s Mike Van Staden and Momofuku’s Shaun King (and later, Gastromix’s Chris Bulen, Scott Green of Robert Irvine’s Public House and Charlie Palmer Steak’s Lalo Saavedra). This crew is all over the place, and you didn’t even know it. When Church took the reins of what he affectionately refers to as Aureole 2.0 late last year, he implemented menu changes at the iconic Mandalay Bay restaurant in an attempt to source as many local and sustainable ingredients as possible, a challenging task for such a large venue. “My job here is to figure out how we can feed your soul by implementing cool and fun techniques but still executing at a high level while serving 350 covers a night,” he says. But the energetic chef doesn’t rest on his laurels, reflecting that “once a dish is right, it’s time to change it.” Cook fast indeed. –Jim Begley
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Drai’s Mig os
nov 18 Photographs by Tony Tran Photography
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LIONEL RICHIE
ALL THE HITS
THE ORIGINAL MISFITS
WITH ALKALINE TRIO AND FEAR
MGM GRAND GARDEN ARENA
NOV 29 - DEC 16 & MAR 7 - 20
THUR, DEC 28
MAROON 5
PITBULL
TIME OF OUR LIVES
MANDALAY BAY EVENTS CENTER
DEC 30 & 31
JAN 17- 27 & APR 27- MAY 12
STYX & DON FELDER RENEGADES IN THE FAST LANE 2
BACKSTREET BOYS LARGER THAN LIFE
JAN 31 – FEB 17
JAN 26 – FEB 3
BUY TICKETS AT LIVENATION.COM
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P a c k e d W I T H
T A L E N T T h e 1 8 t h a nn u a l L a t i n G r a m m y s c a p t i v a t e M G M
G r a n d
G a r d e n A r e n a
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o one at MGM Grand Garden Arena was surprised when “Despacito” took four trophies at the Latin Grammy Awards on November 16—the biggest night in Latin music was definitely going to recognize one of the biggest Spanish-language singles ever to hit the global charts. But the rest of the musical event was full of extraordinary performances, astonishing award presentations and memorable moments—including some very Vegas team-ups. Henderson resident Steve Aoki and Marquee Nightclub artist French Montana helped amp up a performance by J Balvin and Bad Bunny, and Wynn Nightlife superstar Diplo
was part of a show-closing ensemble (along with Bomba Estéreo and Victor Manuelle) that performed Luis Fonsi’s smash “Despacito.” Bringing awareness and aid to Puerto Rico was the focal point of the 18thannual awards ceremony, which opened with a moment of silence followed by Puerto Rican rap phenom Residente—who scored nine nominations and won two awards—performing “Hijos de Cañaveral.” Alejandro Sanz received the 2017 Latin Recording Academy Person of the Year award, and Hamilton playwright Lin Manuel-Miranda was awarded the President’s Merit Award.
Among the surprises were bachatapop singer-songwriter Vicente García snagging three Latin Grammys and actor-salsa singer Ruben Blades winning twice for the album he recorded with Roberto Delgado & Orquesta— including the coveted Album of the Year award, where the veteran performer won out over stiff competition from Juanes, Shakira, Nicky Jam and Residente. –Brock Radke
C N C O b y L e s t e r Co h e n / G e tt y
i was there
TICKETS STARTING AT $49.99
Book your ticket today by calling 800.963.9634 or visit mirage.com
Download Sizzle from the app store for an exclusive Foundation Room experience >
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D o r s e y b r i n g Ro s i n a to
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N E W D - S C H O O L O
ne good turn of the cocktail shaker deserves another. Nightlife pioneer David Rabin and renowned barman Sam Ross scored big with the Dorsey at Venetian last year, and now they’re taking another big swing with Rosina, a cocktail spot set to open on the casino floor at Palazzo in December. The classics will be the focus at this new drinking destination. “Like the world-class restaurant experiences we see on the Strip, the Venetian and the Palazzo are reimagining the conven-
tional notion of casino cocktails,” Sam Ross said in a statement. “There is a trailblazing cocktail culture unfolding at these resorts. With Rosina, your enjoyment is enhanced by attention to detail, in the drinks and the setting.” The intimate bar and lounge will seat nearly 65 with a design inspired by an elegant train car from another era, created in cocktail colors of Champagne, rose gold and blush. Expect lots of brass, crystal lighting, pink velvet chairs and a Champagne call button that will allow bubbly fans to top off their flutes on demand.
Those who enjoy Ross’ creative menu at the Dorsey should revel in his versions of time-honored libations like the Negroni, the Manhattan and the Dark and Stormy. Anyone who appreciates swanky, old-school surroundings and vintage vibes might have a new favorite place.
Co u r t e s y P h oto
evolution
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curtain up
S T O R Y ‘ B a z ’ i t s a t
m a k e s
m a r k P a l a z z o
T h e a t r e
W
hen it made its Las Vegas debut in 2015 at Light Nightclub in Mandalay Bay, Baz felt like a bit of an experiment— something fresh and different in an unlikely venue, yet clearly aimed at a younger showgoing audience. That wasn’t the right spot for the genrebending show created by LA-based theatrical company For the Record, but it has since found its footing at
the Palazzo Theatre, where last week the cast and crew came together to celebrate show No. 400 since opening there in July 2016. Recently renamed Baz: A Musical Mash-Up, the energetic, immersive production famously blends songs and scenes from film visionary Baz Luhrmann’s movies Romeo + Juliet, Moulin Rouge and The Great Gatsby. The powerhouse ensemble cast contin-
ues to build buzz for one of the Strip’s most unique shows. There really is nothing else like it. Baz: A Musical Mash-Up at Palazzo Theatre, TuesdaySunday, 7 p.m., 702-414-9000.
Courtesy Photo
L O V E
I N D U S T R Y
W E E K L Y
in the moment
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Photographs courtesy Wynn Nightlife
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M E M O R A B L E
M E A L J a v i e r ’ s d e s e r v e s
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here’s such a thing as a Strip sleeper. That’s when an amazing experience gets lost among all the noise and lights and fun on Las Vegas Boulevard. There’s an especially significant selection of sleeper restaurants on the Strip, because every casino resort has a stellar dining lineup and you may not be familiar with all the offerings.
Big French/File
A
Aria is known for its incredible restaurant collection, but the authentic Mexican cuisine supplied by Newport Beach transplant Javier’s is often left out of the conversation. It shouldn’t be. The dark, artful and inviting environment and bustling center bar at this easy-access location has been a hit for those in the know since Javier’s took the place of a steakhouse space in 2012. The fresh, addictive ceviches and hearty queso fundido top the list of favorite snacks to pair with a crisp margarita at that charming bar, but be warned that those who stop by for light bites and drinks
frequently end up grabbing a booth or table and making a night of the Javier’s experience. When that happens to you, consider the velvety beef shortrib braised in chile negro sauce; the lightly battered chiles rellenos stuffed with ground beef, potato, serrano peppers and Monterey Jack cheese; or the Cabo Azul combo—a Maine lobster enchilada in a creamy pasilla sauce, a grilled relleno filled with cheese, shrimp and fresh Dungeness crab, and an Ensenada-style shrimp taco on a flour tortilla. Accidental or intended, that’s a feast you won’t soon forget. Javier’s at Aria, 866-590-3637; daily 11:30 a.m.midnight.
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Photographs by Devin Jimenez/Tony Tran Photography
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D E E P D I V E E x pl o r e
J a p a n e s e W h i s k y
N o b u
L
as Vegas’ original Nobu restaurant at the Hard Rock Hotel is doubling down on the Japanese whisky craze with Japanese Whisky Wednesdays—a weekly event offering the opportunity to indulge in one of the largest collections of the celebrated spirit in a creative way.
Courtesy Photo
The special event cocktail menu features all-new drinks made with barrel-aged, pure malt and blended whiskeys, but Japanese craft beers and a wide range of sipping whiskeys are also available. You can take the experience to another level with Nobu bites paired with your chosen cocktail, too. The clean, fresh Toki Highball makes for the perfect entry point—Suntory Toki whisky with Voss Norwegian sparkling water, house-made yuzu bitters and a burnt Meyer lemon peel served over hand-carved ice. Expand your flavor horizons with the Hibiki Harmony Old Fashioned:
H a r d
a t
R o c k
blended Hibiki with cara cara orange, Demerera syrup, orange and cardamom bitters with Japanese cedar-wood smoke and a Luxardo cherry. And don’t miss the dramatically bright AKA-Suru, made with Taketsuru Pure Malt whisky, ginger liqueur, Cointreau, fresh lemon juice and house-made grenadine and cherry bitters. Nobu has been setting the pace and making an impact on the Vegas scene for more than 20 years. With this specialty experience, it’s clear this dining—and drinking—institution still has plenty to offer. Japanese Whisky Wednesdays at Nobu at the Hard Rock Hotel, Wednesday 6-10:30 p.m.
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Hy de Mas cu lino C i g ar Unve ili ng
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Photographs courtesy Hyde Bellagio
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the resource
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CH ATEAU 11/24 DJ Raphiki. 11/25 DJ ShadowRed. 12/1 DJ J-Day. 12/2 DJ P-Jay. Paris, Wed-Sat, 702-7767770.
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EMBASSY 11/23 Jesse Saunders. 3355 Procyon St., ThuSat, 702-609-6666. FOUN DAT ION
ROOM
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F OX TAI L SLS, Fri-Sat, 702-761-7621.
H Y D E
DRAI’ S 11/24 DJ Seany Mac. 11/25 Mark Mac. 12/1 Mark Mac. 12/2 DJ Sincere. 12/8 DJ Sam I Am. 12/29 DJ Greg Lopez. Mandalay Bay, nightly, 702632-7631. .
11/24 DJ D-Miles. 11/25 DJ C-L.A. 11/28 DJ Konflikt. 11/29 DJ D-Miles. Bellagio, nightly, 702-693-8700. I N T R I GU E 11/24 David Clutch. 11/30 Lost Kings. 12/1 RL Grime. 12/2 Flosstradamus. 12/7 Duke Dumont. 12/8 Sultan & Shepard. 12/9 Lost Kings. 12/14 RL Grime. Wynn, Thu-Sat, 702770-7300. M AR QU EE 11/24 Vice. 11/25 Ruckus. 11/27 Vice. 12/1 Vice. 12/2 Andrew Rayel. 12/4 Ruckus. 12/8 Fedde Le Grand. 12/11 DJ Five. Cosmopolitan, Mon, Fri-Sat, 702-333-9000.
TAO 11/23 DJ Five. 11/24 Enferno. 11/25 Eric DLux. 11/30 DJ Five. 12/1 Devin Lucien. 12/2 DJ Politik. 12/7 DJ Five. 12/8 Enferno. 12/9 Eric DLux. Venetian, Thu-Sat, 702-388-8588. XS 11/25 The Chainsmokers. 12/1 DJ Snake. 12/2 The Chainsmokers. 12/8 RL Grime. 12/9 Nicky Romero. 12/15 DJ Snake. 12/16 The Chainsmokers. Encore, Fri-Mon, 702-7700097.
XS Courtesy Wynn NighTlife
11/24 DJ Franzen. 11/25 DJ Esco. 11/26 DJ Franzen. Cromwell, Tue, Thu-Sun, 702-7773800.
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BEST WEEKLY / NON-DAILY WEBSITE
That’s three consecutive years in a row – a testament of the Las Vegas Weekly’s talented and hard-working staff. Other winners include The Boston Globe, Bloomberg, CNN, The Associated Press just to name a few. Now in its 22nd year, this year’s EPPY Awards saw more than 300 entries competing in 30 diverse categories. A list of all the winners can be found here: www.editorandpublisher.com/eppy-winners-2017
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12/2 A Carpenters Christmas. 12/15-16 All-4One. Aliante Casino, 702-692-7777.
TH E
AX IS
11/26 Miss Universe. 11/29-12/16 Lionel Richie. 12/19-12/31 Britney Spears. 1/17-1/27 Pitbull. 1/31-2/17 Backstreet Boys. 2/21-3/3 Jennifer Lopez. Planet Hollywood, 702-777-6737. B R O O K LY N
BOWL
11/27 Flobots. 11/30 Wax Tailor. 12/1 Jack & Jack. 12/3 Shaggy. 12/6 Anuhea. 12/7 Chris Robinson Brotherhood. 12/9 Corey Smith. 12/14 The Drums. 12/16 Descendents. 12/21 Lil Pump. 12/29 Dizzy Wright. 12/31 Ja Rule & Ashanti. 1/16 K. Flay. 1/17 G3. 2/1 Rebel Souljahz. 2/9 Stick Figure & Twiddle. 2/13 Lettuce. 2/16 Tribal Seeds. 2/22 Dark Star Orchestra. 2/27 Celebrating David Bowie. Linq Promenade, 702-862-2695.
TH E
CH ELSEA
11/25 Wakin Chau. 11/29 Lee Brice. 12/8-12/9 Cole Swindell. 12/10 Dustin Lynch. 12/13 Dwight Yoakam. 12/15-12/16 Dierks Bentley. 12/22 Lindsey Stirling. 12/24 Louis Yan. 12/29 Zac Brown Band. 12/30 Duran Duran. 12/31 Foo Fighters. 1/12-1/13 Willie Nelson & Family. 1/20 Spoon. 1/27 Adam Sandler. 2/16 Queens of the Stone Age. 2/17 Cake. Cosmopolitan, 702-698-6797. CH R O M E
SH OWRO O M
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11/23-11/25 Celine Dion. 11/29-12/10 Reba, Brooks & Dunn. 12/6 Jeff Dunham. 12/14-12/22 Mariah Carey. 12/15 Bill O’Reilly & Dennis Miller. 12/30-1/20 Celine Dion. 1/31-2/3 Van Morrison. 2/9-3/2 Elton John. Caesars Palace, 866-227-5938. DOWNTOWN LAS VEGAS EVENTS CENTER 12/29-12/30 Boys Noize & Gorgon City. 200 S. Third St., 800-745-3000.
EN CORE
T HEAT ER
12/1-12/2 Harry Connick Jr. 12/13-12/16 Alabama. 1/10-1/20 John Fogerty. 1/26-1/31 The Moody Blues. 2/7-2/24 Diana Ross. 2/283/10 Elvis Costello. Wynn, 702-770-9966. T HE
FOUN DRY
12/15-12/16 Dave Koz. 12/10 Parmalee. 1/12 Dylan Scott. SLS, 702-761-7617. GOLDEN N UGGET SHOW ROOM 11/24 Eric Burdon & The Animals. 12/1 The Grass Roots. 12/7 John Michael Montgomery. 12/8 Brenda Lee. 12/9 Pam Tillis & Lorrie Morgan. 12/10 Charlie Daniels Band. 12/11 Ronnie Milsap. 12/12 Tanya Tucker. 12/13 Lonestar. 12/14 Clint Black. 12/15 Jamey Johnson. 12/29 Loverboy. Golden Nugget, 866-946-5336.
a
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11/24 The Used. 11/25 Steel Panther. 11/29 The Irreplaceables. 12/1 Steel Panther. 12/2 Nirvana Mania. 12/15 Steel Panther. 12/16 Brian Newman. 12/17 Rocky Horror Picture Show Live. 12/22 A Drag Queen Christmas. 12/31 Pennywise. 1/12-1/13 Marilyn Manson. 1/14 The Minimalists. 1/24-2/3 Santana. 2/10 Judah & The Lion. 2/17 Beth Hart. 2/23 Black Label Society. Mandalay Bay, 702-632-7600. T H E
J OI N T
11/26 Snails. 12/2 Patton Oswalt. 12/3 Kelly Clarkson. 12/6 Holiday Havoc with Rise Against, Portugal. The Man, Royal Bood & more. 12/8-12/9 Gary Allan. 12/18 Mondays Dark 4th Anniversary Show. 1/7 Markiplier. 1/12 Tracy Morgan. 1/20 The National. 2/2-2/3 Incubus. 2/23-3/3 Nickelback. Hard Rock Hotel, 702-693-5000. M A N D A L AY B AY EVENTS CENTER
12/30-12/31 Maroon 5. 2/16 Lana Del Rey. Mandalay Bay, 702-632-7777. MGM GRAND GARDEN ARENA 12/5 UNLV vs. Oral Roberts. 12/9 UNLV vs. Illinois. 12/28 The Original Misfits. 2/3 The Killers. 2/10 Shakira. MGM Grand, 702-5213826.
OR L EAN S 1/20 John Waite. Santa Fe Station, 702-6584900.
HARD
ROC K
LIVE
12/1 Winter Bass. Hard Rock Cafe, 3771 Las Vegas Blvd. S., 702-733-7625.
BLU E S
AR EN A
11/23-11/24 Continental Tire Las Vegas Invitational. 11/25 PJ Masks Live. 12/2 Las Vegas Soul Festival with Teddy Riley, Faith Evans, SWV and more. Orleans, 702-3657469.
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MAROON 5 COURTESY PHOTO
the resource
O R L E ANS
SH OWRO O M
11/24 Timothy B. Schmit. 12/22-12/23 Under the Streetlamp. Orleans, 702-365-7111.
PA RK
TH EATER
11/24-11/25 Cher. 12/30-12/31 Bruno Mars. 1/121/13 Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons. 2/142/19 Bruno Mars. Monte Carlo, 844-600-7275.
TH E
P EARL
11/25 Ana Gabriel. 12/11 Holiday Havoc with The Killers & more. Palms, 702-944-3200.
TH E
RAILH EAD
11/30 Nikki Hill. 12/2 Robert Cray Band. 12/7 Coco Montoya. 12/16 Keiko Matsui & Euge Groove. 12/22 Christmas with the Celts. 1/4
Rick Estrin & The Nightcats. Boulder Station, 702-432-7777. ROC KS
LOUN GE
12/8 Taylor Hicks. 1/20 My Favorite Murder. Red Rock Resort, 702-797-7777. SOUT H
POIN T
T- M OBI L E
12/1 Vegas Strong Benefit Show with The Killers, Imagine Dragons & more. 12/8-12/9 George Strait. 12/16 Lady Gaga. 1/5-1/6 Ice Vegas Invitational. 1/20 Katy Perry. 5/11 U2. 5/26 Pink. 3780 Las Vegas Blvd. S., 702-6921600.
SHOW ROOM VEN E T I AN
11/24-11/26 Chubby Checker. 12/1-12/2 Rob Garrett. 12/12 Sierra Black. 12/13-12/16 Cody Johnson. 12/21-12/23 Tony Orlando. 12/28 Frankie Moreno. South Point, 702-796-7111.
T ERRY
FATOR
AR E N A
T H E AT R E
1/24-1/25 Jeff Foxworthy. 1/26-2/3 Styx & Don Felder. 2/7-2/24 Chicago. Venetian, 702-4149000.
T HEAT ER VI N Y L
11/24-11/25 Boyz II Men. 11/24-11/25 Howie Mandel & Puddles Pity Party. 12/1-12/2 Ray Romano & David Spade. 12/8-12/16 Ron White. 12/22-12/24 Boyz II Men. 12/29 Joe Rogan. 12/30 Jay Leno. 1/19-1/21 John Mulaney. Mirage, 702-792-7777.
12/1 Syd. 12/5 Dance Gavin Dance. 12/7 Daryle Singletary. 12/8-12/9 Mark Wills. 12/10-12/11 David Ball. 12/12-12/13 Andy Griggs. 12/14 Daryle Singletary. 12/22 Sonny Digital. 2/3 Tonight Alive & Silverstein. 2/9 Lights. Hard Rock Hotel, 702-693-5000.
I N D U S T R Y
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(Wade Vandervort/Special to Weekly)
las vegas weekly 11.23.17
Arts & entertainment Classic neon signs beyond the Neon Museum
The Weekly 5
1. THE FLAMINGO
2. HOLSUM LOFTS
3. RAINBOW CLUB
4. VEGAS VIC
5. HUNTRIDGE CENTER
One of few neon signs remaining on the Strip, the Flamingo’s upswept plume of pink and orange neon is an integral part of Vegas’ iconography. 3555 Las Vegas Blvd. S.
“… Hours fresher,” promises the 1954 sign for this former bakery. Today, the Holsum building is office and retail space, but the freshness glows on. 231 W. Charleston Blvd.
The awning of this Henderson casino is a vivid, glowing rainbow of neon, adorned with a stylized logo that could have belonged to a 1970s discotheque. 122 S. Water Street.
Sorry, Brandon Flowers, but you’re not actually The Man. That honor belongs to this 40-foottall, neon-framed cowboy, built for the Pioneer Club in 1951. 25 E. Fremont Street.
One of Downtown’s newest signs was explicitly designed and built in the 1960s Googie style, to match its midcentury shopping plaza. 1120 E. Charleston Blvd. –Geoff Carter
56 las vegas weekly 11.23.17
SCREEN
BRINGING THE DeaD TO LIFE screen
Pixar mostly succeeds with the gorgeous Coco BY JOSH BELL
he best Pixar movies give viewers a childlike sense of wonder and discovery, even if those viewers are cynical adults who can’t stand children. The animation studio’s new Coco doesn’t quite achieve that level of astonishment for its entire running time, but it does have plenty of moments that will bring a smile to the face of even the most hardened moviegoer. It’s also a welcome original story from a studio that has been a little too focused on mediocre (yet lucrative) sequels in recent years. Set in a small Mexican town, Coco is inspired by the Mexican Dia de los Muertos holiday, in which families display photos of dead loved ones and leave food and other offerings for their spirits. It’s on that day that young Miguel (voiced by Anthony Gonzalez) decides to defy his family’s edict against music and perform in a local talent competition, inspired by his idol, the legendary musician Ernesto de la Cruz (Benjamin Bratt). Because Miguel’s great-great-grandfather abandoned his family to become a musician, leaving behind a wife and daughter (the Coco of the movie’s title), the family has considered music a curse for generations. It turns out to be a literal curse for Miguel, who’s magically transported to the land of the dead after stealing de la Cruz’s guitar, and can’t return home until he tracks down the spirit of the
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late musician. Miguel is a likable character whose musical Along the way, Miguel interacts with the dreams are easy to root for, and it helps that spirits of his ancestors and enlists Frozen songwriters Robert Lopez and the dubious help of fast-talking spirit aaabc Kristen Anderson-Lopez have been Héctor (Gael García Bernal), offered brought in to write the movie’s signaCOCO in exchange for Miguel helping Héctor ture song, the lovely “Remember Me,” Voices of Anthony be remembered in the world of the livperformed multiple times by multiple Gonzalez, Gael ing. Miguel’s quest is a mostly simple characters. Thanks to the help of a García Bernal, story about family bonds, and once the number of cultural consultants, Coco Benjamin Bratt. movie throws in a fairly obvious thirdhas a kind of real-world authenticity Directed by act twist, it takes a bit too long for that most animated films don’t bother Lee Unkrich. everything to wrap up. But the journey with, and it uses the Dia de los MuerRated PG. Now playing is still well worth taking, thanks to the tos traditions as a springboard for a citywide. gorgeously realized world, a colorful, bright, family-friendly story that’s intricate land of the dead that shows both respectful and inventive. It’s the why Pixar still has no equal in Amerikind of story Pixar has told before, but can animation. there’s enough variation to make it feel fresh.
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las vegas weekly 11.23.17
HERE’S YOUR SIGN Three Billboards can’t help overstating its case By Josh Bell
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xxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxx xxxxx Miguel explores afterlife bureaucracy in Coco. (xxxxxxxxxxxxxx) (Courtesy Disney)
Starting with its overly precious title, Martin McDonagh’s Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri is quite taken with its own cleverness, often to the detriment of storytelling and characterization. Writer-director McDonagh’s third film has more genuine humanity than his first two (In Bruges and Seven Psychopaths), but the British playwright still overwrites nearly every line of dialogue, creating characters who are mouthpieces for their creator’s wit rather than recognizable human beings. That hip, detached tone was appropriate for a meta-comedy like Seven Psychopaths, but Three Billboards presents itself as a grounded, sympathetic story about mistreated working-class Americans. Chief among them is Mildred Hayes (Frances McDormand), a gift-shop clerk and divorced mother grieving the death of her teenage daughter, who was raped and murdered by an unknown assailant months earlier. Angry that the local police have been unable to find the perpetrator, she rents the titular billboards, filling them with an outraged message targeted at town police chief William Willoughby (Woody Harrelson). Even with a murdered daughter, the salty, confrontational Mildred is tough to sympathize with; as Willoughby explains, the cops have done everything in their power to find her daughter’s killer, and Willoughby himself is a patient and fair man. Mildred is so clearly in the wrong that McDonagh has to put her against the racist, homophobic and meanspirited Officer Dixon (Sam Rockwell) just to make her seem compassionate and reasonable by comparison. Willoughby is a one-dimensional saint who exits the story early, and McDonagh then attempts a redemption arc for the mismatched pair of Mildred and Dixon, unconvincingly in both cases. The strong performances smooth over some of the rough spots in the characterization, but they’re not enough to make up for the shifts in motivation and tone, with the movie frequently veering abruptly from snide comedy to intense drama. There are themes of grief, empathy and the hollowness of revenge, but they mostly get buried under sarcastic, wordy quips and sudden, unpleasant plot developments (many of which are dropped just as suddenly). For every genuine emotion that McDonagh evokes, he can’t resist undercutting it by showing off.
aabcc THREE BILLBOARDS OUTSIDE EBBING, MISSOURI Rockwell vs. McDormand. (Courtesy 20th Century Fox)
Frances McDormand, Sam Rockwell, Woody Harrelson. Directed by Martin McDonagh. Rated R. Now playing in select theaters.
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Mrs. Maisel takes the subway. (Courtesy Amazon)
SCREEN
WEEKLY | 11.23.17
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An absolute marvel A stand-up star is born in The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel where her husband had previously performed. The hyperorganized and fiercely observant Midge had been taking t takes a special kind of talent to handle the lightcomedy notes for her husband, and she puts those insights ning-fast patter of Gilmore Girls creator Amy Sherto use in a burgeoning career overseen by gruff coffeehouse man-Palladino, and on The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, manager Susie (Family Guy’s Alex Borstein). Rachel Brosnahan matches Gilmore’s Lauren GraAlthough certain aspects of Midge’s career ham and Bunheads’ Sutton Foster in embodying are inspired by real-life female comedians of Sherman-Palladino’s ideal of the sharp-tongued, aaaac the 1950s (including Joan Rivers and Phyllis hyper-literate woman of substance, who takes no THE MARVELOUS Diller), she’s a wholly original creation, and crap from anyone, least of all herself. MRS. MAISEL Brosnahan imbues her with an infectious While Gilmore and Bunheads both took place Season 1 available November 29 vibrancy that’s equally entertaining whether in quaint small towns full of almost fantastical on Amazon. she’s performing onstage or dealing with her quirks, Mrs. Maisel is more rooted in the real judgmental traditional Jewish family. It’s not world, specifically 1958 New York City. That’s surprising that Sherman-Palladino’s dialogue where upper-class Jewish housewife and mother Miriam sparkles, but she also effectively captures the time period, “Midge” Maisel (Brosnahan) has her seemingly perfect injecting just the right amount of quirkiness into the life shattered when her husband of four years leaves her for historical context. The set design, costumes and visuhis secretary. ally inventive direction (often from the creator herself) Mr. Maisel (Michael Zegen) had been trying his hand lavish as much attention on Midge’s home life as her (poorly) at stand-up comedy, but his wife turns out to be professional aspirations, filling both with rich, rewarding the one with real talent, as she proves when she barrels, detail. Marvelous is an understatement. drunk, onto the stage of the Greenwich Village coffeehouse
By Josh Bell
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60 las vegas weekly 11.23.17
GET WAY DOWN
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61
NOISE
las vegas weekly 11.23.17
By Ian Caramanzana and Geoff Carter
The Double Down still stands alone. (Wade Vandervort/Special to Weekly)
1. Thee Swank Bastards. The local surf-rock13. The jukebox. It’s still one of the bestin’, prank-pullin’ stalwarts get the party started curated in Vegas—a “basic, beautiful collection Wednesday night with Basstravaganza: 25 songs, of punk, rockabilly and weird-ass sh*t,” as Moss 25 different bass players. calls it. 2. The history. Seriously, can you believe the 14. Fukuburger’s truck. Those tasty burgers Double Down Saloon has been around for 25 pair nicely with the house’s bacon martini. years? That everyone from Tim Burton to Dr. 15. Dwarves. The Chicago-bred, San FrancisTimothy Leary has warmed these barstools? co-based quintet has been servin’ up its eclectic, Or that this “clubhouse for the lunatic fringe” rowdy garage-punk with controversial lyrics for spawned a sister bar in New York City? It’s a three decades. And with performances that often goddamn miracle, that’s what. Rub on it and include nudity, physical aggression and snobby make a wish. stage banter, Dwarves will feel right at home at 3. The atmosphere. Breathe it in deep. the Double Down on Saturday night. Later, use a lot of Febreze to get it off your 16. The bathrooms. Look for some salacious jacket, belt and shoes. gossip about you scratched on the walls. If you 4. DJ Rex Dart. Throughout the years, he’s can’t find any, add some. rocked rooms across town with eclectic sets that 17. Franks & Deans. Vegas’s upstanding “rock fuse blues, funk and rock ’n’ roll. If you’ve never ’n’ roll Rat Pack” plays indoors Saturday night witnessed one of his multigenre sets, from 1 a.m. till dawn. now’s the time to check him out—he’s 18. Dirk Vermin & The Hostile Talessentially spinning all weekend long. ent. It’s tough to imagine the Double Double Down 5. The parking lot. Lots going on Down celebrating a birthday without Saloon’S 25th Anniversary out there this weekend: live music, an Uncle Dirk in attendance. He and his outdoor bar and even a booth staffed by band of untelegenic hooligans appear November 22-26, times the bar’s friendly green neighbor, the Saturday. vary, free. Grove dispensary. 19. The televisions. Still playing 702-791-5775. 6. The murals. The Double Down has a mix of indescribably weird scenes. been acquiring cool murals since the Serves you right if you look at them. mid-1990s—one-of-a-kind works by 20. Goldtop Bob. Thanks to a Mark T. Zeilman, Magda Szeitz, Elizabeth Blau long-standing residency, the charismatic blues and others. They’re aging nicely. guitarist calls “The Happiest Place on Earth” his 7. The man. If you can spot Double Down/ second home. He plays Sunday night. Frankie’s Tiki Room owner P Moss in the 21. Überschall. Featuring ex- and current crowd, shake his hand, buy him a drink and members of the Blue Man Group, Überschall have him autograph something: a flier, maybe, features three drummers, a bassist and two guior your face. tarists. It’s as ridiculous and fun as it sounds. See 8. Puke insurance. Your $20 antidote to the for yourself on Sunday. Double Down’s first rule: “You puke, you clean.” 22. Modern Drunkard Magazine. The Double 9. Throw Rag. Captain Sean Doe, the founder/ Down’s the only place in Vegas where you can singer of this rockabilly/roots/punk band, sails find this omnibus for fall-down drunks. the Salton Sea, California, quartet into port 23. The addictive lunacy of the place. It’s real. Saturday night to rip through hits like “She Don’t 24. The Dickies. The campy SoCal pop-punk Want To (She Don’t Care)” and “Rule Maker.” pioneers are no strangers to Vegas; they’ve 10. The anniversary poster. This ready-forrocked stages big and small, from Punk Rock framing masterpiece—by AIGA award-winning Bowling to the Gold Spike pool party. Sing along graphic artist Art Chantry—is a steal at $25. to the melodic “Give It Back” or the band’s brisk 11. Jenn O. Cide. The towering beauty and take on Black Sabbath’s “Paranoid” in our city’s unrepentant sideshow freak hosts the festivities. beloved dive. Expect to see her eating a fair amount of glass, or 25. Ass Juice. The Double Down’s signature stapling random things to her head. shot, “served ass cold.” Pound down a few shots 12. The pool tables. Try not to think of what’s in celebration of a quarter-freaking century of touched that felt over the years. “100% pure, not from concentrate.”
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62 NOISE
WEEKLY | 11.23.17
Sound judgment
Morrissey
Low in High School aabcc Deep in the cell of his heart, Morrissey believes that love can deliver from evil. But the way he frames that ideal on Low in High School, his 11th solo studio album, is the most vexing thing about it. Take the musically resounding opener “My Love, I’d Do Anything for You,” which starts off with this sentimental nugget: “Teach your kids to recognize and to despise all the propaganda/Filtered down by the dead echelons’ mainstream media.” The barely romantic chorus that follows hardly supports the title’s declaration or establishes a clear narrative. Fake news isn’t the only gripe Morrissey shoehorns into the pining of High School, its aimless and erratic lyrics— and largely underwhelming melodies—threatening to undermine the sweep of his voice and the instrumental robustness of his band. The arrangements, samples and mournful Spanish guitar make “I Bury the Living” a centerpiece number, with Morrissey managing to keep his anti-war ire focused for all of its seven-plus minutes. But the following song “In Your Lap” has the English singer volleying back and forth between oppressive governments and the crotch of his love interest. Escape as a lyrical device informs most of pop music. But Morrissey’s political and sexual interjections render it awkward—for everyone. –Mike Prevatt
Mavis Staples
If All I Was Was Black aaaac Much as Rick Rubin oversaw Johnny Cash’s career resurgence, Wilco’s Jeff Tweedy has become a sonic shepherd of sorts for Mavis Staples. If All I Was Was Black—the pair’s third collaborative album of the past decade—features the R&B/gospel legend covering songs largely written by Tweedy, who also produced the record. It’s the duo’s best, most vital collection yet. Black’s lyrics allude to today’s divisive political climate and ongoing social upheaval but call on compassion, forgiveness and community to serve as salves. Musically, the project showcases Staples’ velvety, wisdom-exuding voice, as songs encompass funky soul struts (“Who Told You That”), organ-freckled gospel (the sparse “Peaceful Dream”) and gritty rock ’n’ roll (standout “Try Harder”). Staples also wrote lyrics for three songs, and those compositions stress the importance of love while still acknowledging racism and politician deception. “If all I was was black, looking at you/You might look past all the love I give” she says pointedly on the rootsy title track, while on “We Go High,” she admits, “I have a mind to bury them whole, when they go low, to tell you the truth.” Poignant and piercing, If All I Was Was Black stands as one of 2017 must-hear albums. –Annie Zaleski
A detail from “In Memory of Water” by Matthew Couper. (Courtesy Photo)
63 FINE ART
WEEKLY | 11.23.17
SYMBOL CITY Matthew Couper uses Vegas iconography to deliver a potent artistic message By Dawn-Michelle Baude atthew Couper’s From Dust to Water, at Rise gallery at Holsum Lofts through November 30, is a beautiful, strange and disarming show that does something rare in fine art today: It delivers a message. Using the language of symbols—skeletons and cacti, blenders and playing cards—Couper combines pictorial elements in witty and incisive visual narratives. Social commentary is Couper’s endgame, and he often uses Las Vegas iconography to get there, but these artworks aren’t just about the Valley. Their bizarre, surreal content addresses bizarre, surreal phenomena in our increasingly posthumanist, globalized culture. From Dust to Water includes 50 paintings influenced by Spanish Colonial art and created between 2011 and 2017. Couper—a New Zealander by birth, a Las Vegan by choice—frequently exhibits internationally, but he has never surveyed his work made about Las Vegas in Las Vegas. The scale ranges from
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miniatures to large-format pieces, mainly aaaac sects—appear frequently in Couper’s art. oil on canvas, metal and paper, along with Borrowed from 17th-century memento Matthew wood block prints, mixed media works and mori paintings, these symbols serve as Couper: lithographs. stern reminders of the vanity of life. From Dust At 64-by-144 inches, the masterful “In Couper deploys symbolic currencies in to Water Memory of Water” nearly takes up an enlayers, or what he calls, “the cavity of illuThrough Notire wall. The painting showcases Couper’s sion,” which allows viewers to experience vember 30, by appointment symbolic vocabularies, sourced from Maori visual depth and perspective at a time Thursday-Satartifacts, Mayan pictographs, Russian when most artists are focusing on surface urday, 1-4:30 Suprematism and the Lake Mead intake and process. The multiple planes, in turn, p.m. Rise at Holsum Lofts, water system. Using the layout of the $1 correspond to layers of messaging: The 241 W. Charlesbill—itself based on the tripartite structure more you bring to it, the more you get out ton Blvd. #130, of a Christian altarpiece—Couper places of it. His foremost layer is dripped and 510-936-4052, mattcouper. a decaying “Madonna of Consolation” smeared, suggesting age and weathering com. cradling a baby Stratosphere Tower in the on one hand, action painting on the other. central oval. While the Madonna is usually From Dust to Water is a vivid reminder depicted lost at sea, here she’s dry-docked that Couper is an expert, and learned, in a drained Lake Mead, the three intake straws painter in full possession of his powers. He folspewing droll messages (“…we flushed and it was lows David Hickey and Jean Baudrillard in recdecimated…”). A wave of spiritual presences flees ognizing that Las Vegas is, in many ways, ahead the snuffed candle in her hand. of the curve. Our water crisis isn’t just ours; it’s Candles—like skeletons, playing cards and ineverybody’s.
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66 las vegas weekly 11.23.17
FOOD & DRINK
3 P LATES It’s pasta season, and the Strip welcomes your indulgence Look at you! You behaved yourself all summer long, and you’ve got the body to prove it. But now the moment you’ve been waiting for has arrived. The pool’s closed. The swimsuits are packed away in the closet. It’s cold outside, and now you get more than one cheat day a week. Take as many as you like. ¶ It’s time to carb up. But don’t sink into pasta season with any old red-sauce joint— you’ll be hitting your favorite neighborhood Italian spot all winter long. The first saucy, cheesy bowl is a special occasion, so celebrate at one of the Strip’s luxurious, utterly satisfying pasta palaces. –Brock Radke
Baked Lasagna Napoletana at Allegro
SPICY RIGATONI VODKA AT CARBONE
The Italian offerings at Wynn and Encore are second to none. Costa di Mare is known for immaculate seafood, Sinatra is an old-school classic and there are amazing pasta dishes at both, but if you want to fork something that will roll your eyes back in your head, Allegro’s the spot. There, amicable chef Enzo Febbraro slow-simmers a “Sunday sauce” ragu with pork and meatballs that pushes his dense, rich lasagna over the top. The smoked mozzarella adds an extra savory touch. $29, Wynn, 702-770-2040.
The menu at Carbone isn’t much to look at, and neither is this deceptive dish. The lack of descriptions force you to ask for recommendations, and your captain will certainly point you to this seemingly simple plate of sauce-smothered pasta tubes. Surprise! It’s perfect—onions, tomatoes, extra virgin olive oil, heavy cream, vodka, butter and just the right amount of Calabrian chili. Go ahead, try to make it at home. It won’t be the same, even if you serve it while wearing a tuxedo. There’s a reason everyone orders this. $28, Aria, 702-590-2663.
67 las vegas weekly 11.23.17
Explore new dishes and old favorites at Hexx the stripside eatery gets a refresh ne of the best things about with a black bean patty, which, getting a new chef on layered with avocado, quinoa, board has to be the new asadero cheese and chipotle menu items that he or she mayo, really shines, and should creates. Combine those with sigbe enjoyed by meat-eaters and nature dishes and older favorites, vegetarians alike. and your meal stands to be better A beautiful breaded veal than ever. That’s the case at the Milanese with a wild mushroom Stripside Hexx Kitchen & Bar at risotto ($36) will satisfy carParis, where Las Vegas veteran nivorous desires, and the lovely chef Carlos Buscaglia (formerly presentation will satisfy the eye of Due Forni) joined the team as well. The gnocchi pomodoro earlier in the year. ($24) features tiny pillows of Appetizer highlights include pasta blanketed by flavorful a wonderful white bean humtomato-basil sauce and melted mus with pita bread burrata—truly mouthwa($10), crispy calamari tering. HEXX with ranch and hot sauce Desserts ($9 each) go Paris, 702-331($17) and a meat-andfrom cake to a s’mores 5100. 24/7. cheese board with truffle semifreddo, and honey and grilled country chocolate stars in many bread ($25). The Hexx of them, fitting given the chopped salad ($13) is studded restaurant’s next-door proximiwith hearts of palm, avocado, ty to the Hexx Chocolate & Conartichoke and sweet drop pepfexxions retail outlet, which has pers that you’ll want to steal an in-house, gourmet chocolatefrom your dining partner’s making operation. Consider plate. A nice take on a caprese indulging in the red velvet roll, ($14) sees tomato, burrata, and which piles on ganache, chocotruffle honey artfully arranged late pearls, chocolate meringue on a savory Parmesan tart. raspberries and raspberry If you’re looking to keep your sauce. For a bubbly feeling, try entrée casual, try the vegetable the Champagne shaved ice with pizza ($17) covered in peppers, Champagne jelly, strawberries, Brussels sprouts, tomato, brocbubble sugar, a raspberry rollcolini and mozzarella. Hexx up and little strawberry pearls has a number of sandwiches, that burst in your mouth. It puts from the grilled chicken BLT other versions of the classic ($18) to a veggie burger ($17) dessert to shame. –Nina King
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Allegro’s baked lasagna Napoletana. (Beverly Poppe/Courtesy)
PICI AT SCARPETTA Carbone’s rigatoni is just like Scott Conant’s spaghetti at Scarpetta—delicious dishes that seem plain and blow you away with flavor. But there’s a different noodle at Scarpetta that deserves your attention, strands of hand-rolled bliss—pici is like fat spaghetti—smothered in otherworldly almond-chili pesto and topped with fresh tarragon and sweet chunks of lobster. I know, I know ... you don’t want to spend 40 bucks for a bowl of pasta. Fine. Have fun at Olive Garden. We’ll Instagram this for you. $38, Cosmopolitan, 702-698-7960.
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CALENDAR
LAS VEGAS WEEKLY 11.23.17
MUSIC ARTIFICE Karaoke 11/22, 10 pm, free. ’80s Retro Revival 11/25, 9 pm, free. Downtown Jam open mic 11/27, 9 pm, free. Salsa 11/28, 9 pm, free. 1025 S. 1st St., #A, 702-489-6339. BACKSTAGE BAR & BILLIARDS All Black Everything ft. Indica, The Real Ulysses, Coherent, Vic Smith, Harvey Listen, Third Eye, Jauua 11/24, 9 pm, free. 601 E. Fremont St., 702-382-2227. BEAUTY BAR NFBN: Papa Groove, Tsimz, Stylz, Matt Campbell, Zirduke, Bvnjo 11/28, 9 pm, $10. Unsane, Plaque Marks 11/29, 8 pm, $13. 517 Fremont St., 702-598-3757. BUNKHOUSE SALOON Bass Gravy ft. Blacklab 11/22, 9 p, $12. Jack Evan Johnson, Zach Ryan and the Wanderers, Ted Rader 11/24, 8 pm, $10. DJ Allen 11/25, 9 pm, free. Karaoke 11/27, 9 pm, free. The Steel Benders 11/29, 9 pm, free. 124 S. 11th St., 702-854-1414. COUNT’S VAMP’D John Zito Electric Jam 11/22, 9:30 pm, free. Tailgun, Electric Dynamite 11/24, 9:30 pm, free. Wicked Garden, Crackerman, The Remainz 11/25, 9 pm, free. John Zito Electric Jam 11/29, 9:30 pm, free. 750 W. Sahara Ave., 702-220-8849. THE DILLINGER Shawn Williams 11/22, 8:30 pm. Wayne David Band 11/25, 8 pm, free. 1224 Arizona St., Boulder City, 702-293-4001. THE DISPENSARY LOUNGE Toscha Comeaux 11/24, 10 pm. Karen Jones 11/25, 10 pm. Joe Darro & Friends 11/29, 8 pm. Shows free unless noted. 2451 E. Tropicana Ave., 702-458-6343. DIVE BAR Left Unattended, Better Broken, Call Shot 11/22, 8 pm, $5 donation for AntiDefamation League. Taipan, False Cause, Trip to the Morgue 11/24, 8 pm, $5. Junkyard, Rust Rebellion, Project Redline, Bad Little Sister 11/25, 9 pm, $15-$17. 4110 S. Maryland Parkway, 702-586-3483.
Benjamin Schmitt’s Celestial Abstractions exhibit is up through January 27 at Priscilla Fowler Fine Art. (Mikayla Whitmore/Staff)
702-894-7722. REBAR Bling Bling Jam Holiday Jam 11/26, 6-9 pm. 1225 S. Main St., 702-349-2283.
SAND DOLLAR LOUNGE Billy Ray Charles 11/22, 9 pm. The Rayford Bros. 11/25, 10 pm. DOUBLE DOWN SALOON Thee Swank Bastards The Reeves Brothers 11/28, 10 pm. Stoked! 11/22. The Pluralses, Lambs to Lions, Sector 11/29, 10 pm. Shows 10 pm, free unless noted. 7-G, Jerk!, The Bargain DJ Collective 11/23. 3355 Spring Mountain Road, 702-485-5401. The Heiz, Rocket to Russia, The Psyatics, The New Waves, The Negative Nancys, The Bargain DJ Collective 11/24. The Dickies, The Dwarves, Throw Rag, The Heiz, Kings of the Wild Frontier, Dirk Vermin & THE The Hostile Talent, Franks RESOURCE & Deans, Thee Swank For comprehensive Bastards, The Bargain casino venue DJ Collective 11/25, 5 CLARK COUNTY LIBRARY pm. Goldtop Bob & The listings, look inside Las Vegas Pipe Band: Celtic Goldtoppers, Überschall Industry Weekly. Thanksgiving V 11/25, 4 pm, 11/26. Prof. Rex Dart and the $3-$10. 1401 E. Flamingo Road, Bargain DJ Collective 11/27. 702-507-3400. Unique Massive 11/28, midnight. Thee Swank Bastards 11/29. THE SMITH CENTER (Reynolds Shows 10 pm, free unless noted. Hall) The Bodyguard Thru 11/26, $49640 Paradise Road, 702-791-5775. $127. (Cabaret Jazz) Composers Showcase 11/29, 10:30 pm, $20-$25. 702-749-2000. EAGLE AERIE HALL Spite, Bodysnatcher, Distinguisher, Extortionist, Mothersound, THE SPACE Golden Girls Live 11/24-11/25, 10 pm, Beaten Path 11/22, 5 pm, $15. Outlook, All $40. Peter Mac: Judy Garland Live 11/26, the Rage, Image Club, Venture, Lie for Fun, 6 pm, $25. The Last Five Years 11/27, 8 pm, $35. Stephen Douglas, Daughter Lily 11/25, 5 pm, Glasses 11/28, 9 pm, $10. The Moonshiners $10. 310 W. Pacific Ave., 702-568-8927 11/29, 10 pm, $15. 460 Cavaretta Court, 702903-1070. GILLEY’S SALOON Morgan Leigh 11/22, 9 pm. Scotty Alexander 11/23, 9 pm; 11/24-11/25, 10 UNLV (Beam Music Center) Percussion pm. Luke McCombs 11/27, 9 pm. CJ Simmons Convocation 11/29, 4 pm, free. UNLV Opera 11/29, 9 pm. Shows $10-$20. Treasure Island,
PERFORMING ARTS & CULTURE
Theater: Angels & Demons 11/29, 7:30 pm, $8-$10. (Alta Ham Fine Arts) UNLV Fall Jazz Festival: Jazz Vocal & Latin Jazz Ensembles $8-$10. UNLV Fall Jazz Festival: Jazz Ensembles I & II 11/28, 7:30 pm, $8-$10. UNLV Fall Jazz Festival: Contemporary Jazz & Jazz Guitar Ensembles, Jazz Ensemble III 11/29. 7:30 pm, $8-$10. (Barrick Museum) University Forum: Sensory Inflation 11/28, 7 pm, free. (Beverly Rogers Building) Alumni Reading Series: Andrew Wessels 11/29, 7 pm, free, RSVP required. 702-895-2787. WEST LAS VEGAS LIBRARY Las Vegas Black Gospel Theatre: Lord of the Ungodly 11/25-11/26, 1:45 pm, $20-$30. 947 W. Lake Mead Blvd., 702-229-4800.
GALLERIES & MUSEUMS CLARK COUNTY GOVERNMENT CENTER ROTUNDA GALLERY Holly Rae Vaughn: Collide Thru 1/19. Mon-Fri, 8 am-5 pm. 500 Grand Central Parkway, 702-455-7030. CLARK COUNTY LIBRARY Greg Preston: The Artist Within Thru 12/17. Mon-Thu, 10 am-8 pm; Fri-Sun, 10 am-6 pm. 1401 E. Flamingo Road, 702-507-3400. CSN (Fine Arts Gallery) Margaret Noble: Resonating Objects Thru 1/20. Mon-Fri, 9 am-6 pm; Sat, 10 am-4 pm. (Artspace Gallery) Marianic Parra: In Dreamy Solitude. Thru 1/27. Mon-Fri, 8 am-10:30 pm; Sat 8 am-5 pm. 3200
E. Cheyenne Ave., 702-651-4146. THE CUBE Brian Henry: Perfect Circle Thru 12/16. Thu-Sat, noon-7 pm. Art Square, 1025 S. 1st St. #150, 702-483-8844, thecubelv.com. ENTERPRISE LIBRARY Robot Army: Light Play Thru 11/28. Mon-Thu, 10 am-8 pm; Fri-Sun, 10 am-6 pm. 25 E. Shelbourne Ave., 702-507-3760. JESSIE & BRIAN METCALF GALLERY Mikayla Whitmore: There Is No Right Time Thru 11/24. Mon-Fri, 8 am-5 pm. UNLV’s Richard Tam Alumni Center, 702-895-3621. MICHELE C. QUINN FINE ART Tim Bavington: Sounds of Silence Thru 1/5. Mon-Fri, 9 am-5 pm, free. 620 S. 7th St., 702-366-9339. OBSIDIAN FINE ART Mandy Joy & Steve Anthony Thru 11/30, Hours vary. Arts Factory, 107 E. Charleston Blvd. #240. PRISCILLA FOWLER FINE ART Benjamin Schmitt: Celestial Abstractions Thru 1/27. Wed-Sat, noon6 pm. 1025 S. 1st St. #155, 719-371-5640. RISE Matthew Couper: From Dust to Water Thru 11/30. By appointment Thu-Sat, 1-4:30 pm. Holsum Lofts, 241 W. Charleston Blvd. #130, 510-936-4052. WEST LAS VEGAS LIBRARY Kip Miller Thru 1/2. Mon-Thu, 10 am-8 pm; Fri-Sun, 10 am-6 pm. 951 W. Lake Mead Blvd., 702-507-3980. WINDMILL LIBRARY David Mazur: Land and Water Thru 11/26. Mon-Thu, 10 am-8 pm; Fri-Sun, 10 am-6 pm. 7060 W. Windmill Lane, 702-507-6030.
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