The Festival Issue

EAT - DRINK - PARTY

Coachella Exclusive WMC & Ultra Coverage The Festival Issue April 2012: Issue 28

YOUR SCENE - YOUR NIT E - YOUR GUIDE S O U T H E R N

C A L I F O R N I A

STEVE AOKI a legendary crowd surfer

Table Of Contents 4 The List

YOUR SCENE - YOUR NIT E - YOUR GUIDE

6 Featured Dishes: Food Trucks 8 Featured Dishes: Best of the Best 10 Featured Dishes: Simply Tasty 12 Featured Drinks 14 Coachella Watch List 16 Nitelife Around The World: Festivals 18 Movers & Shakers 20 OC Music Awards 24 Steve Aoki Cover Story 26 Bar/Club Directory 27 LA April Events Listing 28 Lissie 29 OC April Events Listing 30 Live Events Listing SoCal 31 San Diego April Events Listing 32 March in Review: Featured Events 35 MyClubScene.com April 2012 Vixen 39 Photo Recaps

Steve Aoki Photo by Doug Hac www.doughac.com

46 Ultra Music Festival Review 48 WMC & MMW Recaps

All rights reserved @ 2012, the entire contents of this publication are protected by copy right. No part of this

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publication April be reproduced or transmitted by any means, electronically or mechanical, without permission in writing from NiteGuide. The publisher accepts no responsibility or contributed manuscripts, photographs, artwork, or advertisements. Submission will not be returned unless arranged to do so in writing. Subscription price is $25 a year available at niteguidemag.com. NiteGuide Magazine is a monthly publication. All information regarding editorial content or property for sale is deemed reliable. No representation is made as to accuracy hereof and is printed subject to errors and omissions.

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54 Horoscope

THE LIST THE PUBLISHER With all of the build-up surrounding Miami Music Week, I’m happy to report things went exactly as expected. We arrived at Winter Music Conference and interviewed many talented DJs at the W Hotel. Then we traveled to the top pool parties in South Beach with Avicii and other great artists. The highlight of the week was attending Ultra, which was full of celebs including Madonna, Lil Jon, Paris Hilton and more. We caught up with Chuckie, Morgan Page, Martin Solveig, Cosmic Gate, 12th Planet, George Acosta, Robbie Rivera and other great DJs to gain insight on the rise of EDM in America. Visit our website to see exclusive interviews and photos from our trip to Miami!

This month, we showcased the top festivals and recapped the party week from Miami.

Steve Aoki is a great person to represent the Festival Issue with his infamous “crowd surfing” technique at events. Make sure you read the exclusive interview with Tiësto in this months issue, it’s one of my favorites!

Justin Stearman Publisher

Get NiteGuide Magazine delivered to your door.

Email home@niteguidemag.com View online at www.NiteGuideMag.com

THE CREATIVE DIRECTOR My hometown of Miami was rocking during Winter Music Conference and we stormed my personal favorite music festival, Ultra.

During Ultra we experienced a multitude of great electronic music, including a performance by our cover boy Steve Aoki and I had the privilege of personally interviewing Cosmic Gate, Morgan Page, Eva, 12th planet, and Avicii, just to name a few.

In this month’s Festival Issue we captured all the glamour and glory of the Miami events, and included great coverage of West Coast live music as well. We caught up with festival songstress Lissie, previewed must-see music at this year’s Coachella, and caught up with members of Edward Sharpe and The Magnetic Zeros backstage at The Observatory. With all of this music madness, I’m particularly proud of our April issue.

Enjoy!

Nicole Lloyd Director of Operations

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CREDITS Publisher Justin Stearman Justin@NiteGuideMag.com Director of Operations Nicole Lloyd Nicole@NiteGuideMag.com Senior Editor Heidi Darby heidi@niteguidemag.com Layout Artist Kadie Mieir Nicole Lloyd Director of Photography Brian Hmurovich brian@myclubscene.com Chief Restaurant Editor Jeff Fliegler Marketing Manager Allison Imai Cover Photo By Doug Hac www.doughac.com Photographers Adrian Perez Brian Brown Christina Montaldo Christopher Bormann Dave Orell Heidi Darby Jamie Dixx Jason Worthen Jennifer Cartwright John Nguyen Josh Raab Kevin Sam Martin Clara Matthew Copley Patrick Strube RG Benhard Robert Rodriguez MiamiPhotographers Chris Day Greg Gibbs Jade Hillstrom Jarod Farina Jen Gray Staff Writers Adéllyn Polomski Adrian Matthew Perez Alejandra Loera Allison Imai Alysia Batchelder Amanda Warlick Christina Montaldo Drew Leahy Emmanuel Cayanan Fred Dyoll Jamie Dickerson Kimberly Fisher Kristin Halberg Maxfield Frieser Videographer Curtis Wilson Daniel Allan RG Benhard Contact info@NiteGuideMag.com For Advertising info email: advertise@niteguidemag.com www.NiteGuideMag.com

April

Featured Food

Food

Trucks

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far cry from the roach coach your parents knew, these food trucks are serving up top-notch gourmet grub. Whether they’re gathered at a food truck festival or camped out in a local parking lot, it’s almost as fun to track them down as it is to taste the delicious food they make.

By Jeff Fliegler

Churrasco con Chimichuri

Carnitas Fries

Soft Shell Crab Sandwich

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For those of you who don’t speak Spanish, that means Top Sirloin with Chimichurri Sauce. This dish is amazing! Tender, perfectly cooked top sirloin is thinly sliced on French fries with chimichurri that is so fresh and tasty it should be outlawed for being too addictive.

Back in the old days, tapas were made to get costumers to come to the party; these days BOG’s tapas are the party.

traditional Singaporean ingredients results in an outcome that is anything but simple.

Barcelona On the Go

Chomp Chomp

Lime Truck

949.939.6798 | www.barcelonaonthego.com

949.637.1688 | www.chompchompnation.com

949.232.0690 | www.thelimetruck.com

arcelona On the Go was launched in February, 2010, and was one of the pioneer gourmet food trucks in Orange County.

The food is Spanish/Argentinean bistro style with some classic tapas dishes as well. The slick-looking black truck with a red painting of a bull on the side and a menu written on a chalk board serves up dishes that include: croquettes and chicken sandwiches with romesco sauce, paella, and everyone’s favorite: Churrasco con Chimichurri!

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homp Chomp Nation is a food truck inspired by the cuisine of Singapore.

Robert Zuetell takes the opportunity to recreate traditional Asian street food and bring it to Southern California. With just a pinch of American flare he makes creative, and more importantly, really tasty food. When you see menu items that consist of satays (chicken, rib-eye, and tofu), wings, sloppy joes, fritters, poboys, and desserts like S’mores and tropical fruit fritters, one may think that Comp Chomp Nation is simple. Yet each dish created with

The Curried Soft Shell Crab Sandwich with Sambal Chili Aioli, Pea Sprouts, Kefir Lime and Lemongrass Vinaigrette is a great example. It looks like a regular slider but the Sambal Chili Aoli and Kefir Lime Vinaigrette make this dish a food-truck treat that doesn’t disappoint. So look for the cool-looking tiger truck and the 12ft flag used as its tail.

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ince its inception in June 2010, The Lime Truck has whipped up a whirlwind of palate-pleasing new American cuisine that have earned them a bevy of local and national accolades and a band of loyal followers to boot. Owner and visionary, Daniel Shemtob, aims to keep mouths watering with a foolproof formula for foodies seeking satisfaction: local, organic and sustainably sourced fresh ingredients paired with hip, inventive recipes make for the most delectable dishes in town.

The lime truck team is one of the best, enriched by experience (and a win) on The Food Network’s “The Great Food Truck Race.” This dynamic team has attained a new benchmark in culinary vision and execution.

One of the favorites from the lime truck is the Carnitas Fries consisting of 12 hour pulled pork on top of French fries, topped with chipotle honey slaw, guacamole, crema and cotija cheese.

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April

Featured Food

Best of the

BEST

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hese restaurants are serving up some of the most creative and tasty dishes around. Though these three restaurants couldn’t be more different from one another, they are all masters of cuisine.

By Jeff Fliegler

Foie Gras Loco Moco

Poire Pochee au Vin Rouge Photo by Ryan Forbes

Swordfish

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A typical creation that you may find on Animal’s menu is the Foie Gras Moco Loco. A Moco Loco is a Hawaiian dish made with rice, hamburger, eggs, and gravy. Once again, Vinny and Jon take it to another level by adding foie gras and a quail egg to this classic Hawaiian dish.

Chef Quinn’s talent is prevalent in all of his dishes; the “Poire Pochee au Vin Rouge” is a Mediterranean/French inspired favorite. This specialty dish is a red wine poached pear, lemon scented goat cheese, toasted pistachios, mache, and black truffle vinaigrette.

This dish is to die for! Simple flavors that come together to make a wonderful and complex bite of food, clean on the pallet yet rich and decadent all at the same time…..Amazing!

Animal

Bagatelle

435 N Fairfax Ave Los Angeles, CA 90048 323.782.9225 | www.animalrestaurant.com

755 N La Cienega Los Angeles, CA 90069 310.659.3900

nimal restaurant off Fairfax has been all the rave ever since it opened in 2008.

Jon Shook and Vinny Dotolo started in Florida and got their first break when they starred on Two Dudes Catering on the Food Network.

They didn’t stop there; Animal has became an elite restaurant in LA over the past four years. Vinny and Jon’s bad ass approach to food has excited carnivores in Southern California more than any other restaurant in memory. The menu consists of Bone Marrow, Veal Brains, and Chocolate Bacon. Animal recently had a foie gras dinner to protest California’s ban on the delicious goose liver.

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agatelle just opened and is already causing a buzz in the LA restaurant scene.

Bagatelle made a name for itself in New York’s meat packing district before deciding to open another restaurant on La Cienega, located in the old Boudoir/Coco de Ville space in front of STK. They spared no expense and hired executive chef Scott Quinn, formally of Bouchon (one of Thomas Keller’s amazing dining establishments). The restaurant is inspired by a St. Tropez Parisian bistro.

T

he word Tabu is from the Polynesian Tongan people’s tongue and means, “set apart or forbidden.” Tabu grill in Laguna Beach is aptly named as a ring of exotic plants surrounds the front patio entrance, creating the feeling of entering a whole new world. Inside the color scheme of ocean blues and purple mixed with colorful tapestries set this restaurant apart from other fine dining eateries. The menu consists of the finest ingredients constructed into wonderfully composed dishes.

Ahi Poke, house-made corn agnoloti, and scallops all grace the menu that spares no expense.

The Grilled Swordfish with couscous, drizzled with a blood orange vinaigrette, garnished with frisee and cilantro is a favorite among locals. The Swordfish is grilled to perfection, tender and flavorful. The sweet and tangy blood orange vinaigrette and the couscous provide just a little texture that really makes the dish a winner.

Tabu 2892 S Coast Hwy Laguna Beach, CA 92651 949.494.7743 | www.tabugrill.com

Featured Food April

Simply Tasty

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lassic dishes are classic because they taste good. Sometimes you want food that soothes the soul: pasta, stews, and fish and chips done right are just as magnificent as all the Michelin star dishes in the world.

By Jeff Fliegler

Muldoon’s Fish and Chips

Bolognese

Photo by Delle Willet

Photo by Alicia Santistevan

Short Rib

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Through the years, the building lived on as an olive-packing plant, a restaurant, a boarding house, State of California offices and more. In the past several years, the building, which belongs to the State and is in Old Town State Park, was renovated and it opened as a restaurant two years ago. The Short Rib on top of mash potatoes is served with baby vegetables and tasty gravy that makes this dish worth the trip.

Who would have thought that something as simple and classic as Fish and Chips could be so tasty? The famous dish made with beer battered cod, French fried potatoes and served with tartar sauce or malt vinegar is perfect at Muldoon’s. It truly is a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow.

The bolognese pasta is a favorite among all the foodies in town. The meat is small-diced instead of ground giving it texture and flavor that is like no other meat sauce you’ve had before. Chef Gonzalez makes his food as Italians do….. with love, and you can really taste it.

The Cosmopolitan

Muldoon’s Irish Pub

Toast

he Cosmopolitan Hotel and Restaurant dates back to 1827, when it began its life as the home of Juan Bandini in what was then San Diego, Mexico. The Bandinis lived in the house until 1859. It served several private purposes from 1859 to 1869 when Albert and Emily Seeley bought the one-story adobe home, added a second floor of wood and opened The Cosmopolitan Hotel and Restaurant-a stagecoach stop. They ran the business until 1888.

2660 Calhoun St San Diego, CA 92110 619.297.1874 | www.oldtowncosmopolitan.com

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uldoon’s has been a main-stay in Newport Beach since 1974. It’s been a favorite of locals and tourists for almost 40 years.

It has a beautiful atrium with two bars on either side. There is live music playing more often than not in one bar, and you can have a conversation with friends in the other. There are plenty of beers on tap and more whisky then you can possibly imagine. It’s a great place to meet new people, and with such a friendly staff you really feel at home.

202 Newport Center Drive Newport Beach, CA 92660 949.640.4110 | www.muldoonspub.com

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fter having great success at Acqua Al 2, Martin Gonzalez opened Toast Enoteca Cucina. After spending time in Italy, Gonzales brought some delicious favorites back to San Diego and made them his own. Toast is a sophisticated wine bar that serves north of 400 wines and has up to 65 wines by the glass. The wine is served from an Enomatic Machine, or in layman’s terms, a wine dispenser so patrons can try wine from all over the world. Not only is it a great place to try and learn about wine, but the food is marvelous as well.

927 J Street San Diego, CA 92101 619.269.4207 | www.toastenoteca.com

April

Featured Drinks buddah’s kiss

Starfish [Laguna Beach]

30832 S. Pacific Coast Hwy, CA 92651 | 949.715.9200 | www.starfishlaguna.com

By Jeff Fliegler

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ancy Wilhelm, the owner of the new restaurant Starfish, has done it again. Located in a strip mall in south Laguna Beach, Starfish may seem plain Jane from the outside, but like grandma always said, it’s what’s inside that counts. Anyone would fall in love with this place, because when you walk in it’s a beautiful surprise. Dark wood, and turquoise meet your eyes with stylish Asian art to fill the room in. The food is Asian inspired as well and is plated beautifully. The horse shoe shaped bar is almost always busy, and there is an energetic buzz to the restaurant.

The Buddah’s kiss cocktail is a favorite among the locals. Veev Acai Spirit, sake, house made papaya puree, chili salted rim, and fresh lime make up this enchanting cocktail. It has that special combination that satisfies all of your taste buds and makes it hard to pace yourself.

Lapu Lapu

Royal Hawaiian [Laguna Beach] 331 N Coast Hwy, CA 92651 | 949.494.8001 | www.royalhawaiianlagunabeach.com

By Jeff Fliegler

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oyal Hawaiian is the first stop on a night out in Laguna. It combines a tropical influenced yet contemporary menu with an island tiki décor to create a warm and inviting ambiance for both tourists and locals since 1947. There is a lively bar where you can hang with friends and watch a game or enjoy a meal in the completely renovated dining room or patio. There is live music on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, and a private room for parties.

Besides being one of the oldest establishments in the Laguna dining scene, the Royal Hawaiian can boast it has one of Southern California’s most famous cocktails. The Lapu Lapu has been both the beginning and/or the end of an adventure out. Countless nights of many of Laguna’s party goers have revolved around the over-sized island cocktail made with Myer’s Platinum rum, pineapple, orange and passion fruit juice, and a floater of dark rum.

The cedar room

The Churchill [Los Angeles] 8384 W. 3rd St, CA 90048 | 323.655.8384 | www.the-churchill.com

By Jeff Fliegler

T

he Churchill, along with many great restaurants, is located in the heart of Los Angeles’ West Third Street. The Churchill is led by Beau Laughlin and Brett Cranston who launched their highly successful restaurant, The Hudson, in 2009. The Churchill serves seasonal American cuisine including house made cured meats, pastas, pickled vegetables, breads and desserts.

Design highlights include reclaimed wood communal tables, polished concrete floors, iron table tops with retro crank bases, antiqued mirrors, Edison bulb-lights, vintage records and books.

An indoor/outdoor experience, the dining room opens via sliding glass walls onto a lush garden patio with fireplace.

The Churchill boasts an extensive list of handmade signature cocktails, 20 regional craft beers on tap and a California-centric wine menu. One of the most interesting cocktails is The Cedar Room. Bacon infused George Dickel #8 Bourbon, Ramazzotti Amaro, Mathilde Framboise with a Lagavulin rinse and sour cherry bitters are served on the rocks with house-made bacon.

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April

Coachella Watch List

MUST-SEE MUSIC

Coachella 2012

By Heidi Darby & Allie Imai

Coachella. One word creates memories for thousands of people every year who make the

pilgrimage to Indio, California. Elite musicians, unfathomable reunions, and cutting-edge talent saturate this otherwise sleepy little desert town, and with the first ever dual-weekend version selling out in an unprecedented three hours, this year’s Coachella has all the makings of an epic event.

NiteGuide pulled together a list of electronic acts, up and coming artists, and revival groups that are standouts on the 2012 lineup.

Revivals

Up&Comers

At The Drive-In

Givers

At The Drive-In created one of the biggest buzz factors surrounding this years Coachella lineup and after the group’s eleven year silence, anticipation is at an all-time high. The El Paso, Texas natives (and collective members of The Mars Volta and Sparta) will bring their post-hardcore rock to the serene Indio polo fields, which will undoubtedly be filled with throngs of fans waiting to see ATDI’s historically intense and exhilarating set.

Kindred spirits collide in this indie-jam five piece that hails from Lafayette, Louisiana.

They incorporate zydeco, Cajun, jam band, and indie pop elements to unravel a highenergy explosion of sound. Their debut fulllength album In Light is a refreshing change of pace, and their penchant for harmonies and instrument hopping make Givers a must-see on this years lineup.

Mazzy Star

Amon Tobin is a Brazilian-born producer known for his unusual music production and pure electronic sound. His ISAM album tour incorporates unbelievable video mapping techniques projected on a large cube from which he performs, creating a visual storyboard to mirror the audio in his performances.

The second coming of this dreamy folk duo began last year with the release of their singles “Common Burn” and “Lay Myself Down.”

Now with a heavily rumored full-length album set to appear this year, Hope Sandoval and David Roback are finally satiating Coachella fans who have been begging for a Mazzy Star slot on the festival’s lineup for years.

Refused Swedish punk band Refused are a definite must-see for a variety of reasons. The band who whole-heartedly swore off a reunion for years are reversing their decision in order to give their cult classic album The Shape of Punk to Come a new platform to shine from. With only a handful of festival dates announced so far, this could very well be one of the only opportunities to catch the influential band.

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Amon Tobin

We Were Promised Jetpacks These four Scottish musicians have been steadily gaining recognition in the indie rock scene for the past two years, bringing something different to the scene with their collection of raw lyrics and emotionally enthused guitar riffs. In an industry when new rock bands are fighting to be noticed, everything about this group makes them stand out from the crowd and gives them a future with plenty of room to grow.

Electronic Avicii It’s been quite a year for the 22-year-old Swedish producer, but his success comes with good reason. Avicii has become known for putting on performances abundant in positive energy and uplifting melodies, and it doesn’t get much better than dancing to “Levels” in a crowd of thousands of smiling people.

Swedish House Mafia Steve Angello, Sebastian Ingrosso and Axwell are a trio of house music perfection originating from Sweden that will undoubtedly deliver one jaw-dropping performance. As far as stage presence is concerned, this group is known for rocking large crowds and festivals worldwide, and putting on a show you won’t forget.

araabMUZIK This young producer’s style is different from all other performers on Coachella’s bill, in that he uses an MPC drum machine to create live patterns and melodies while sampling beats from hip hop, electro, trance, and dubstep genres. Add the chance of him throwing in live drums and keyboards and you’ve got yourself an impressive performance based on pure talent.

Coachella takes over Indio, CA April 13, 14, 15 & April 20, 21, 22

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Festivals

By Emmanuel Cayanan

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here’s no better way to prove hardcore appreciation for good music than to spend an entire weekend at an outdoor music festival—migrating from stage to stage, getting a minimal amount of sleep on a crowded campground, and engaging in all kinds of debauchery your parents probably got into before they were parents. It’s a big world out there for the festival lover. For every Coachella, there are dozens, if not hundreds, of equally legendary macro music festivals happening throughout the year that draw massive followings. These multi-day events throughout the world showcase regional musical landscapes. Traveling to any of these festivals can demonstrate how different cultures appreciate music, as well as the universal effect that live music has on people.

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Reading/leeds (England)

Summer Sonic (Japan)

The Reading and Leeds Festivals are two annual England

Since the turn of the century, Summer Sonic in Chiba and

events that are held during the bank holiday weekend in

Osaka, Japan has brought elements of rock, punk, hip

August. The Reading Festival, held at Little John’s Farm

hop and dance to its always dazzling lineup. This year’s

on Richfield Avenue in Central Reading, is the oldest pop

Summer Sonic, set for August 18 and 19, offers the kind

music festival around and has seen many iterations of

of diverse lineup that would only make sense in the Japa-

itself—encompassing rock, alternative, indie, punk and

nese market, from pop acts like Rihanna and Pitbull to

metal. Leeds takes place at Bramham Park. Faithful fes-

New Order, Franz Ferdinand and Death Cab for Cutie.

tival goers fill campsites at both events. Legendary acts

Most of the bands featured in recent years have been

like Nirvana, Guns N’ Roses and Rage Against the Ma-

on that stage after achieving mainstream popularity but

chine have headlined in past years. Acts like Good Char-

before they hit mainstream overexposure. The highly an-

lotte and 50 Cent have been the most recent victims of

ticipated details for Summer Sonic continue to develop

a longtime tradition at the festivals, in which the brutal

as summer draws closer in Japan.

crowds force unpopular acts off the stage by throwing plastic bottles and cans. Last year, both festivals drew a

Primavera Sound (Spain)

combined total of 162,000 people. Tickets for this year’s

San Miguel Primavera Sound takes place in Barcelona

festivals went on sale in March, and 2012 headliners in-

towards the end of May at Parc del Forum and is one of

clude The Cure, Kasabian and Foo Fighters.

the largest music festivals in Spain. It is a three-day event that takes place by sea. While it doesn’t offer much in

Norwegian Wood (Norway)

the way of its campgrounds, Primavera makes up for it in excitement. Its notoriously eclectic lineup has encom-

Every June, Norway’s capital Oslo becomes an epicenter

passed indie talent, international and mainstream acts.

for rock music during the annual Norwegian Wood Fes-

Sonic Youth, Bon Iver, The White Stripes , Portishead and

tival. International rock music icons as well as up-and-

Pet Shop Boys have been part of Primavera’s headline

coming talent join together for Norwegian Wood. The

history since its 2001 debut.

name is drawn from the Beatles hit “Norwegian Wood (The Bird Has Flown).” Set in the Frognerbadet area of the city, the event takes place during one of Scandina-

Tomorrowland (Belgium)

via’s natural phenomena, the Midnight Sun, when the sun

Tomorrowland is one of the most beautiful festivals in the

is still visible during the local midnight, ideal for long days

world. Organizers put a great deal of thought and cre-

of concerts and outdoor activities. The event is expected

ativity into the details of the décor, which is meant to

to sell out all of its 7,000 tickets for each day of the event.

create somewhat of a dream world fairytale experience

This year’s lineup includes the likes of Tom Petty & The

amid a beautiful nature scene. Organized by Dutch en-

Heartbreakers, Lenny Kravitz and Lars Winnerbäck .

tertainment and media enterprise, ID&T, Tomorrowland is held in the Belgian town of Boom. It is a relatively new

Rock am Ring/Rock im Park (Germany)

festival, having first opened in 2005 with acts like Armin Van Buuren, Cor Fijneman and Push (M.I.K.E.) headlining

Much like Reading and Leeds in England, the Rock am

the event. Last year, Afrojack, Fedde le Grand, Kaskade

Ring (Rock at the Ring) and Rock im Park (Rock in the

and Tiesto made Tomorrowland one of the most talked

Park) festivals happen simultaneously in Germany with

about festivals in Europe.

scores of people hoping to enjoy the legendary rock music they offer. Rock am Ring takes place in the west of Germany in Nürburgring while Rock im Park takes place in the south of Nuremberg, however both events promote a virtually identical lineup, where most acts throughout the three-day event perform one day at “Ring” and one day at “Park.” Together, this pair of festivals makes up the largest outdoor music event in Germany with as many as 150,000 people attending each year.

To learn more about these venues and events log onto www.MyClubScene.com

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Movers and shakers Featured MIXOLOGIST Dave Herlong

By Heidi Darby Dave Herlong is a Tequila Ambassador for Jose Cuervo, where his expertise and deep knowledge of spirits propel his secondary title of “Mixologist.” After starting out as a bartender in Buffalo, New York, Dave now artfully crafts beverages for countless pool and cocktail party drink menus throughout his current hometown of Las Vegas. Dave candidly shared with NiteGuide the nuances of working in the liquor industry.

NiteGuide Magazine: What are the primary differences between a mixologist and a bartender?

Dave Herlong: The mind of a Mixologist is always working. We develop the cocktails and the cocktail menus that the bartenders make.

We study the origins, production, ingredients, history, flavors, tastes, and smells of spirits and cocktails. Bartenders kinda just show up, do their eight hours and go home. Mixologists live it.

NGM: Working in Las Vegas must lead to

some interesting clientele. Can you share an interesting story, for whatever reason, about a customer?

DH: After fifteen years in this town I have hundreds of stories. Most, as you can imagine, not suitable for print!

NGM: What is a drink no one should ever order?

DH: Not gonna get me there! Whatever someone wants, give it to them! It’s their money and its up to them how they want to spend it. I find it hilarious when bartenders or mixologists take themselves so seriously and declare “I will not serve vodka in my bar” what a joke. If someone wants a simple vodka martini and doesn’t have the same passion for that cocktail with 8 ingredients, then just give them what they want! But for me, I love to make a drink I call Jose’s Garden – Jose Cuervo Platino, Fresh Muddled Cilantro, Jalapeno, Lime, Blue Agave Nectar and a splash of club soda.

NGM: Where can people find you mixing up drinks?

DH: After six years at N9NE Group inside The Palms, I have kind of switched gears and now make drinks on a bigger scale. I develop

Featured go-go

Kayla Rae: Oxnard, California.

By Maxfield

NGM: What made you stay in Southern California?

KR: California has the best weather. What other state can say that they can go to the snow and go to the beach on the same day?

Kayla Rae

Photo by George Swar

NGM: I couldn’t have said it better myself. What do you do for a living outside of dancing?

KR: I am a Business Office Manager at a home health clinic.

When you get to the club and the energy is through the roof, you owe some serious credit to this young superstar. Kayla Rae represents the new face of Go-Go dancing in Southern California and if you’re at the right place, you can see for yourself. Keep an eye on this beauty, because she has the attitude and drive to take her to the top of the industry.

NiteGuide Magazine: Where are you from, originally?

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NGM: How did you get into Go-Go dancing?

KR: I entered a Go-Go contest, which I didn’t win. But I caught the attention of some promoters that did end up hiring me, and my Go-Go career snowballed from there!

NGM: What is the best part about it?

KR: Doing what I love and getting paid for it, also the amazing DJs and celebrities that I get to meet and dance and perform for.

NGM: Sounds like the life to me! Where have you danced most recently? What is your favorite venue to dance at?

KR: I’m a resident dancer at the Yost Theater, which is an amazing venue to dance at. It’s an

cocktails for companies and decide what will make it to their lists. I have developed cocktails for hotels in New York, Miami and San Francisco. Most of my mixing now is for different casinos here in Vegas. I’m currently making pool menus and mixing drinks for the big bosses to taste. So when you come out to Vegas, there is always that possibility that your cocktail started with me.

Photo by Dave Herlong/Jose Cuervo

old theater that has been transformed into an amazing nightclub venue. I love dancing in old theaters. The Yost is definitely my favorite venue.

NGM: What is your favorite place to party?

KR: I’m actually not much of a partier, which is really weird because I work and dance at clubs about 3 times a week. Lounges and wine bars actually suit me better.

NGM: Where can our readers expect to see you dance next?

KR: Hopefully at some upcoming Insomniac events! Or you can always catch me around OC, LA and San Diego. I’m literally all over Southern California and possibly Northern California once I make a trip up there.

NGM: What is next? Do you have any goals for the future?

KR: I hope to continue being a dancer for as long as my body permits. Dancing is a big part of my life and even though I may not be Go-Go dancing in the future, I hope to continue expanding my dance skills by learning new types of dance like ballroom, salsa or even swing dancing.

By Maxfield In this highly competitive era of production and performance, DJs are forced to push themselves harder than ever before to stand out in the club.

It takes an insiders view to attempt to understand the craft. NiteGuide was fortunate enough to pick the brain of up and coming DJ Aaron Marcus about his style, career, and goals. With the utmost class and focus, this new age club wrecker is here to stay.

NiteGuide Magazine: What are your music genres of choice?

Aaron Marcus: My music production style is sort of a fusion between modern progressive house and electro. Full frequency epic stuff and plenty of dirty bass. In my live sets I play tracks with a similar style to my own and other electro or progressive tracks, sometimes stuff on the “trancier” side of things from artists like Arty or Sander van Doorn. If I’m booked for an opening slot, I can throw down a mean house/tech house/minimal set to get the party warmed up and transition to the bangers.

NGM: Where are you from originally?

AM: I was born in Fountain Valley, California, and raised in Huntington Beach. I’ve been living in Orange County all my life, but once I got into playing shows, I’ve been spending a lot of time in Hollywood.

NGM: When and how did you start working with Insurgent Essentials?

AM: Well, Insurgent Essentials is a clothing line currently being restructured and designed by our owner/designer. Back before I played many shows we were thinking of ways to market our brand as more than just clothing. So we thought of a message, working with charities, and then music. I started a weekly (now bi-weekly) podcast on iTunes and www.insurgentradio.com to bring awareness to our brand, “Insurgent Radio.”

NGM: What is your favorite part about doing the podcast?

AM: One thing it definitely helps with is keeping me up to date with all the top music in my style that comes out 3 days a week, every week. A lot of DJs don’t have the time to keep track of everything, but I have to, to make sure the show stays fresh. That also keeps my live sets new and exciting. I never play the same set twice.

Featured Cocktail Waitress Erica Smith

By Amanda Warlick Born and raised in Long Beach, Erica Smith has been serving food and beverages at the Tilted Kilt Pub and Eatery since its opening. The most enjoyable aspect of being a cocktail waitress at the pub is the interactions she experiences with the variety of people she caters to. The atmosphere of the pub itself is also a plus. Smith took a break from serving thirsty customers and shared with us her large ambitions for her future and hobbies outside of cocktailing.

NiteGuide Magazine: What’s one thing that people should know about you but wouldn’t immediately guess?

Erica Smith: I’m actually really focused on school. I study all the time because I’m currently trying to get into the nursing program.

NGM: How did you get into serving?

ES: I used to work at the Pike and when I heard the Tilted Kilt was opening I applied. They trained us all day long for four days straight. I’ve been here since the very beginning. We started off with 130 girls and now there are 45 of us.

NGM: What do you like to do in your spare time?

ES: I love to go shopping and go to the beach.

I really like to just drive around when it’s a nice day out. Sometimes I’ll go out at night with my co-workers.

NGM: What are you most excited for during your stay in Miami for Winter Music Conference?

AM: I’m excited that I’m going to be playing WMC in general. It’s always been a goal to make it to this level. Besides that, I’m looking forward to networking with a lot of the industry’s power players and seeing a few good shows before I come back home. And Cuban food. Definitely excited about the Cuban food.

NGM: When I see you out, what drink should I buy you?

AM: This was an unexpected question after that last one! If we’re drinking beer, I’ll take a Stella. If we’re drinking liquor, I like Crown and Coke.

Photo by Jeff Allen

DJ Aaron Marcus

to socialize with my guests and they keep coming back to visit me. It makes me feel special and happy that they enjoy our establishment so much and love my service!

NGM: Is there a customer that sticks out in your mind for any reason?

ES: Yes! A guy named Tom showed up on our opening day. It was packed and while he waited for an available table I grabbed him a drink. He ended up sitting in my section and he’s been one of my regulars ever since. He even came out for my birthday!

NGM: What are your plans for the future?

ES: I’m working towards becoming a registered nurse, but until that happens I’ll be working here!

NGM: What is your favorite drink?

ES: My favorite drink is fireball whiskey shots.

NGM: What’s your favorite part about working in the nightlife industry?

ES: My favorite part about working at The Kilt is that it’s not like any other job because I get

Photo by Brian Brown

Featured DJ

Come visit Erica and all the other Tilted Kilt ladies for Happy Hour Monday through Friday 3pm-6pm at Tilted Kilt in Long Beach Photo by Brian Brown niteguidemag.com 19

April

OC Music Awards

F

ans and artists collided at the City National Grove of Anaheim on March 3 for the 11th Annual OC Music Awards, where rock n’ roll swagger met red carpet ambiance, all in the name of supporting the local music scene.

“ORANGE COUNTY HAS ALWAYS BEEN HERE WITH GREAT MUSIC,” -Rodney Bingenheimer, 2012 Lifetime Achievement Award recipient

By Heidi Darby

The red carpet pre-party and laid back atmosphere capture the charm of the ceremonies, allowing everyone who attends to rub elbows with local heros and gives up-and-comers a chance to be recognized. Some of the first to arrive were the boys from Reel Big Fish, with frontman Aaron Barrett dressed in a red bow tie and sunglasses. Barrett shared, “We’re excited, this is fun. It seems like there’s lots of bands getting popular around here again, and it’s a good thing.”

Psycho Mike from The World Famous KROQ hosted the event, which kicked off with a performance by Best Americana winner Nicole Vaughn and Her Lovely Band. The soldout show offered multiple performances by nominees, including Best New Artist and Best Blues winners Jeramiah Red. Their playful nature during the pre-party carried over into their performance, which was soulful, satisfying and found the perfect balance of grit and grace. Another standout performance came from Kiev, who enhanced their show with throwback interactive 3-D effects.

Irvine based alt-rockers Thrice took home OC Impact Award honors joining alums including Social Distortion and Sugar Ray. The group’s charitable efforts and impressive discography earned the four piece the award, and during their acceptance speech they expressed their pride for coming form Orange County. Before the ceremonies bassist Ed Breckenridge shared his thoughts on the award while grabbing a drink.

“I feel really lucky, and am happy to be a part of it. There’s so much music that’s come out of this area, just to be a part of that, and be recognized as a part of that is beyond anything I could of hoped for.”

The Lifetime Achievement Award went to quirky KROQ personality Rodney Bingenheimer who in true rockstar fashion, rolled into the event with an entourage at his side. Bingenheimer plays an influential role in the music industry, and is arguably responsible for the success of bands such as No Doubt, Social Distortion, and Agent Orange. His reputation for being soft-spoken and sincere proved true, sharing on his way into the venue that, “Orange County has always been here with great music.”

The OCMA’s not only recognize Orange County’s elite artists, but also provides a platform for emerging artists to network and build new fan bases. The showcase series enables bands to compete live for “Best Live” and “Best Acoustic” categories at venues throughout Orange County.

Between the red carpet pre-party, the performance driven ceremonies, and the support of local artists, the OCMA’s continue to celebrate native talent in style. For a full list of winners go to www.ocmusicawards.com/2012-awards Photo by RG Benhard 20 niteguidemag.com

April

OC Music Award Winners Photo by Speysyde

J

By Heidi Darby

amie Allensworth fronts the groovesavvy band of his own name, Allensworth, threading laid back funk with velvety vocals.

Though the group is a fairly new incarnation of sound, many of the band mates worked on previous projects with Jamie which explains their comfortable nature on stage.

The Orange County-based group created a name for themselves through their live performances, bringing charismatic energy and undeniable crowd connection to every show.

“Our shows start out with a big hug from everybody. It’s a real brotherhood kind of thing.

After that it’s all about having fun with each other on stage. It comes from us watching a lot of live music all the time. The audience isn’t going to have fun unless we’re having fun, so we mess with each other a lot while we’re in front of the crowd,” Jamie says.

Allensworth took home an OC Music Award for Best Live Acoustic, and performed the night of the ceremonies. The group played “I’ll Wait” off their upcoming full-length album due out this summer. The stripped down rendition of the tune was arguably the best performance of the night, and though the group felt slightly anxious about doing the minimal version, the outcome was a triumph. “When we broke down the song, it was a little more nerve racking than usual,” Jamie shared. “I think it’s because we felt a little naked after stripping it, but breaking down the song and playing it acoustically let me know that it was a song worth hearing.”

Catch Allensworth on April 27 at The Copper Door in Santa Ana. Keep up with the group at www.allensworthmusic.com and check out their current album, Broken Leaves, available on iTunes.

Nicole Vaughn & Her Lovely Band

By Heidi Darby Nicole Vaughn and Her Lovely Band blend country flair, pleasing harmonies, and just the right amount of sass to create a full-bodied, satisfying sound.

Before earning a win for Best Country/Americana from the OC Music Awards, Vaughn and company opened the evening with their clap-along tune “Travelin‘ Girl.” The fivepiece band received a warm reception from the crowd, which was the largest audience the group had ever played for.

“The entire night was incredible, and such an honor. But it was also super nerve racking because we were the first people to go,” Vaughn says. “It was crazy winning the award. I’m speechless. It’s a pretty cool feeling working so hard, and being able to have something you can hold in your hand and say ‘Look! I did it! I made an accomplishment!’”

Vaughn had been a solo artist prior to joining up with her Lovely Band, and prefers the energy of group performances to solo work. Their album Almost Live allowed the band to record instrumentally as a whole, and then lay down vocals in the same fashion resulting in the “almost live” sound of the EP. With their current momentum, the group aims to have a full-length album out this fall. Nicole Vaughn and Her Lovely Band will be playing an April Monday-night-residency at The Constellation Room in Santa Ana. 22 niteguidemag.com

Photo by Matt Morgan Almost Live is available at NicoleVaughnandherlovelyband@bandcamp.com

By Allie Imai

“To define a fan is defining myself. I am a fan.”-Steve Aoki

S

teve Aoki is one of those rare producers in the music industry with the ability to fashion an incredible amount of success out of nothing, and through more than one outlet. This spring he took his talents on the road with the Deadmeat Tour featuring handpicked favorites of today’s electro and dubstep genres. While sitting down with Aoki in his modern, art-encompassed home in the Hollywood hills, he revealed his influences behind his collaborative album Wonderland, what it truly means to be a fan, and if he’ll ever get tired of crowd surfing.

See exclusive live interview at www.niteguidemag.com Photo by NiteGuide Magazine | Doug Hac www.doughac.com 24 niteguidemag.com

Growing up in Newport Beach, Aoki was a regular in the rock scene and his introduction to electronic music came after he started remixing indie songs with the new wave of electro sound. After graduating from UC Santa Barbara with two degrees, he ventured into the record label business with fearless determination. The result is Dim Mak Records, which built an eclectic collection of 30 plus breakthrough artists, including Dada Life, Atari Teenage Riot, PeaceTreaty, Autoerotique, and Infected Mushroom.

Stemming from Aoki’s music background, Dim Mak’s album-centric approach has resulted in over 250 releases to date. “In the dance world, you don’t really need to put out an album. You could be a Top 10 DJ and just release really great songs,” Aoki says, “So for me and for Dim Mak, I come from that place in the rock world where albums are the defining points of artists’ careers.”

Photo by Caesar Alvarado

In creating his newest album Wonderland, Aoki’s goal was to reach out to different music genres while still appealing to his original fan base. He explains, “It’s literally a culmination of all the different influences that became my sound… I really wanted to showcase all the different influences to the people that know my music.” Wonderland’s tracks feature artists like Weezer frontman Rivers Cuomo, hip hop favorite Kid Cudi, and electro-house newcomer Angger Dimas, all with beats that pack a signature Aoki-style punch.

If you haven’t been to one of Steve Aoki’s shows, expect to see him regularly throwing in live vocals and surfing through the crowd on an inflatable life raft; in essence, his performances are a party. They provide him with an opportunity to bridge the interaction gap between an artist and a fan and create an escape from the outside world. “To define a fan is defining myself. I am a fan… Music itself is a strange thing. It’s so powerful, it can completely consume you and it makes you do things you’d never think about if that song didn’t affect you in that way,” says Aoki.

Photo by Martin Clara

As the phenomenal rise of electronic dance music continues to take over the world, Aoki only wishes to help contribute to its growth.

Since 2010, he has been the mastermind behind Orange County’s Pacific Festival, an annual event that provides a platform to showcase upcoming bands and DJs while still catering to the musical taste of Orange County locals. The success of Dim Mak has opened a door of opportunity for the producer to continue collecting artists from multiple genres, and the label’s loyal following continues to grow. Catch him on tour this summer in Europe, accompanied by projects in the works in the U.S.

Photo by Martin Clara

Club Directory

Bar Directory

Posch [Irvine]

LOS ANGELES BeAuty Bar [Hollywood] 1638 N Cahuenga Blvd, 90028 323-464-7676

18912 MacArthur Blvd., 92612 949-833-1900 www.myclubscene.com/posch

www.myclubscene.com/beautybarla Tilted Kilt [Long Beach] 6575 E Pacific Coast Hwy Long Beach, CA, 90803 562-795-0163

ORANGE COUNTY

LOS ANGELES

San Diego

Avec [Huntington Beach] 18582 Beach Blvd, 92646 714-475-4660 www.myclubscene.com/avec

Avalon [Hollywood] 1735 Vine St, 90028 323-467-4571 www.myclubscene.com/avalon

Boudoir [San Diego] 701 C Street, 92101 866-913-0418 www.myclubscene.com/boudoir

Ember [Anaheim] 401 N. Anaheim Blvd. 92805 714-991-5101 www.myclubscene.com/ember

Exchange [Los Angeles] 618 S. Spring Street, 90014 213-627-8070 www.myclubscene.com/exchange

Heat Ultra Lounge [Anaheim] 321 W Katella Ave # 214, 92802 714-776-4328 www.myclubscene.com/heat

Drais [Hollywood] 6250 Hollywood Blvd, 90028 323-962-1111 www.myclubscene.com/draisla

Shark Club [Costa Mesa] 841 Baker St., 92626 949-751-6248 www.myclubscene.com/sharkclub Incahoots [Fullerton] 1401 SLemon St., 92832 714-441-1666 www.myclubscene.com/incahoots The Observatory [Santa Ana] 3503 South Harbor Blvd, 92704 714-957-0600 www.myclubscene.com/theobservatory

The Yost Theater [Santa Ana] 307 N. Spurgeon Street, 92701 888-862-9573 www.myclubscene.com/yost

Playhouse [Los Angeles] 6506 Hollywood Blvd, 90028 323-656-4800 www.myclubscene.com/playhouse Supperclub [Hollywood] 6675 Hollywood Boulevard, 90028 323-466-1900 www.myclubscene.com/supperclubla TRU Nightclub [Hollywood] 1600 Argyle Ave, CA 90028 323-461-1600 www.myclubscene.com/truhollywood Vanguard [Hollywood] 6021 Hollywood Blvd, 90028 323-463-3331 www.myclubscene.com/vanguard

Ivy Nightclub [San Diego] 600 F Street, 92101 619-814-2055 www.myclubscene.com/ivy

www.myclubscene.com/tiltedkiltlb

ORANGE COUNTY 2nd Floor [Huntington Beach] 126 Main Street, 92648 714-969-9000 www.myclubscene.com/2ndfloor mutt lynch’s [Newport Beach]

Stingaree

2300 W Oceanfront, 92663

[San Diego]

949-675-1556

454 6th Avenue, 92101

www.myclubscene.com/muttlynch

619-544-9500 www.myclubscene.com/stingareesd Float [San Diego] 207 5th Ave, 92101 619-702-3000 www.myclubscene.com/float Fluxx [San Diego] 500 4th Avenue, 92101 619-232-8100 www.myclubscene.com/fluxxsd Voyeur [San Diego] 755 5th Ave, 92101 619-756-7678 www.myclubscene.com/voyeursd

Sharkeez [Huntington Beach] 211 Main St., 92648 714-960-5282 www.myclubscene.com/sharkeezhb

San Diego 207 [San Diego] 207 5th Ave, 92101 619-702-3000 www.myclubscene.com/207 The Fleetwood [San Diego] 639 J Street, 92101 619-702-7700 www.myclubscene.com/thefleetwoodsd

Visit MyClubScene.com to view the top clubs & bars in your area. View upcoming events, get on the guest list, see photos, videos, reviews and more.

April 2012 Events Listing:

LOS ANGELES Every Friday [TRU] Fun House Fridays Every Friday [Level 3] First Class Friday’s Every Saturday [Level 3] Club DV8 18+ Every Saturday [Avalon] Avalond April 9, Monday [Playhouse] Bass Kleph April 12, Thursday [Playhouse] DJ Ross One April 13, Friday [Exchange LA] Kyau & Albert April 13, Friday [Avalon] Harvard Bass, Flinch April 13, Friday [Playhouse] Otto Knows April 14, Saturday [Avalon] Eddie Halliwell April 14, Saturday [Playhouse] Justin Credible April 16, Monday [Playhouse] Andy Caldwell Birthday Celebration April 18, Wednesday [The Colony] DJ Pauly D April 19, Thursday [Playhouse] DJ Homicide April 20, Friday [Avalon] Felix Cartal, Clockwork April 20, Friday [Playhouse] Tim Mason April 21, Saturday [Playhouse] Nick Cannon April 21, Saturday [Avalon] Edward Maya April 22, Sunday [Playhouse] Paul Van Dyke April 23, Monday [Playhouse] Trent Cantrelle April 23, Monday [Playhouse] Bingo Players April 26, Thursday [Playhouse] DJ Reach April 28, Saturday [Playhouse] DJ Polotik Birthday Celebration Log on to MyClubScene.com now to see more events and get on the list! niteguidemag.com 27

Photo by Elaine Constantine

April

Featured Artist

By Heidi Darby

L

issie’s more than a girl with a guitar. She enraptured the hearts of thousands over the last two years at major music festivals across the US including Lollapalooza, Bonnaroo, Austin City Limits, and multiple European festivals. Her original folk-rock material is accentuated by her uncanny ability to reinvent a cover tune (of any genre), and her rich, hypnotic vocals continue to attract the attention of both critics and fans.

debut full-length album Catching A Tiger, Lissie and her band had the opportunity to play Glastonbury, England’s premiere music festival which attracts 200,000 attendees. The weather was unseasonably beautiful for the mega-fest, which is traditionally known for heavy rains. Lissie took the stage around 1:00pm, and to her surprise found a crowd of roughly 40,000 waiting to watch her perform.

With so much heavy weight touring under her belt, Lissie’s love affair with music festivals began as a spectator when she attended Bonnaroo at the age of nineteen.

Barefoot and completely immersed in Bonnaroo’s atmosphere, the experience played an integral role in her appreciation of the circuit. Lissie and her exceptional band played over twenty music festivals last summer alone and are set to hit the carousel again this summer, starting with a coveted slot on the Coachella 2012 lineup. With all the romanticized notions of playing a music festival, Lissie notes that hard work is an essential and less-than-glamorous component of the scene.

“We gave it our all, and we killed it.

And it was for people that probably had no idea who we were, they were enjoying the sunshine and starting their days. By the end we had people up on their feet cheering and dancing. People were stopping us in the crowd after the show. That was a first for us because we were new to it and kind of new as a band in general, and it couldn’t have gone any better. It was just a moment that I’ll always remember. We felt really accepted and embraced.”

“People that generally have a lot of

responsibilities, for them, a festival is an amazing excuse to completely let loose, relax and escape reality.”

“When we started playing festivals it was such a thrill, because it was something I had enjoyed as spectator. It’s not quite as relaxing as it sounds, because actually you pull up to the festival, and you have to get all your credentials so you can move freely around the site. Then you load in, do your sound check and you play your show. Sometimes you have to leave immediately to go to your next gig, because you might be playing Friday, Saturday, Sunday at three different festivals.”

Her down to earth demeanor and mid-west charm create an instant likability factor for the power-folk songstress. Underneath her easy, familiar nature lies the musical chops of a lioness, and when asked what people should know about her, she responded, “Sometimes people hear ‘girl with a guitar’ and think ‘I know what that’s all about.’ I think women sometimes get pigeonholed. We’ve got a lot of rocking in us, and a lot of raw energy. I think people would be surprised if they saw us live, to see how our rock can be.” After a brief pause and a mischievous laugh Lissie adds, “If you’re curious about me, come see a show.”

Though the festival grind can be ambitious, it also harbors precious memories for the Illinois native. In 2010, just before the release of her

Keep up with Lissie at www.lissie.com, and catch her performing at this year’s Coachella.

28 niteguidemag.com

April 2012 Events Listing:

ORANGE COUNTY Every Monday [Sharkeez HB] MyClubScene Mondays Prize giveaways! email vip@myclubscene.com for details Celebrate your birthday with us and we will buy you a bottle of champagne & food platter for your entire party on any Monday of the week! email birthday@myclubscene.com

Every Thursday [Yost Theater] GIANT Thursdays Every Thursday [Heat Ultra Lounge] Glam Thursdays Every Friday [Avec] Haute Fridays Every Friday [Shark Club] Limelight Fridays Every Friday [Heat Ultra Lounge] Privilege Fridays April 4, Wednesday [Yost Theater] Designer Drugs April 5, Thursday [Yost Theater] Nervo April 7, Saturday [Ember] DJ Ever April 7, Saturday [The Observatory] Wolfgang Gartner April 7, Saturday [Yost Theater] Stellar April 9, Monday [Sharkeez HB] MyClubScene Mondays: The Competition Continues, Kickball After Party April 12, Thursday [Yost Theater] Tritonal & Kristina Sky April 14, Saturday [Ember] DJ Ever April 16, Monday [Sharkeez HB] MyClubScene Mondays: Sex Assasin Clothing giveaways April 21, Saturday [Ember] DJ Crystal Ellis April 27, Friday [Sharkeez HB] DJ Scotty Boy 9pm Sexiest Theme Outfit wins $500 Cash& Prizes April 28, Saturday [Ember] Big Syphe April 29, Tuesday [Yost Theater] Hardwell

Log on to MyClubScene.com now to see more events and get on the list! niteguidemag.com 29

Live Music Events Listing: SoCal Los Angeles

ORANGE COUNTY San Diego

April 8, Sunday [The El Rey]

April 8, Sunday [House of Blues]

April 7, Saturday [4th & B]

Rusted Root

Lacuna Coil

E-40 & Too Short

April 11, Wednesday [The Glass House]

April 11, Wednesday [Detroit Bar]

April 7, Saturday [Soma]

Arctic Monkeys

Blood Orange

Lacuna Coil

April 12, Thursday [The Glass House]

April 14, Saturday [The Grove]

April 11, Wednesday [The Belly Up Tavern]

Refused

Bone Thugs-N-Harmony

Lukas Nelson

April 12, Thursday [The El Rey]

April 15, Sunday [The Observatory]

April 11, Wednesday [The Casbah]

James

Midnite

Youth Lagoon

April 16, Monday [The El Rey]

April 16, Monday [The Observatory]

April 12, Thursday [The Belly Up Tavern]

Band of Skulls

Tech N9ne

Dark Star Orchestra

April 16, Monday [The Glass House]

April 16, Monday [The Observatory]

April 13, Friday [The Belly Up Tavern]

The Hives/The Rapture

Neon Indian (Constellation Room)

Steel Pulse

April 16, Monday [The Fonda Theatre]

April 17, Tuesday [The Observatory]

April 14, Saturday [The Casbah]

Manchester Orchestra

Grouplove

The Rapture

April 17, Tuesday [The Fonda Theatre]

April 18, Wednesday [The Observatory]

April 16, Monday [Anthologie]

Kasabian

Yuck (Constellation Room)

Thomas Dolby

April 18, Wednesday [The Glass House]

April 18, Wednesday [The Observatory]

April 17, Tuesday [The Balboa Theatre]

Explosions In The Sky &

Dom Kennedy

Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds

We Were Promised Jetpacks

April 20, Friday [The Coach House]

April 18, Wednesday [The Belly Up Tavern]

April 19, Thursday [The Glass House]

Common Sense

Buzzcocks

tUne YaRdS/St. Vincent

April 20, Friday [House of Blues]

April 18, Wednesday [The Casbah]

April 19, Thursday [The Fox Theatre]

Berlin with Strangelove

The Big Pink

Pulp

April 21, Saturday [The Observatory]

April 19, Thursday [The Belly Up Tavern]

April 23, Monday [The Orpheum Theatre]

Seedless & Pacific Dub

The Horrors

Jeff Magnum

April 24, Tuesday [The Coach House]

April 20, Friday [Soma]

April 25, Wednesday [Club Nokia]

Ben Kweller

Escape The Fate

Chevelle/Dead Sara

April 26, Thursday [House of Blues]

April 28, Saturday [The Belly Up Tavern]

April 26, Thursday [The El Rey]

Ray Manzarek & Robby Krieger featuring Dave Brock

The White Buffalo

Vintage Trouble

April 26, Thursday [The Coach House]

April 28, Saturday [Soma]

April 27, Friday [The Fonda]

Ted Nugent

Tribal Seeds

Esperanza Spalding 30 niteguidemag.com

April 2012 Events Listing:

SAN DIEGO Every Thursday [207 Hard Rock] Mynt Thursdays Every Thursday [Fluxx] EDM Every Thursday [On Broadway] 18+ Thursdays April 6, Friday [207 | Hard Rock] DJ Ear Waxxx April 6, Friday [Voyeur] Nervo April 6, Friday [Fluxx] DJ E Rock April 7, Saturday [Fluxx] Brett Bodley April 7, Saturday [Voyeur] Bass Kleph & Anthony Ross April 8, Sunday [Float | Hard Rock] Rob Zilla Birthday Celebration

O

By Alejandra Loera

n Wednesday March 21, celebrities, DJs, industry people and music fans filled the Klipsch Amphitheater at Bayfront Park in downtown Miami to watch the world premiere of “Can U Feel It,” the Ultra Music Festival Experience Movie. Everyone from Avicii to 12th Planet was in attendance for this red carpet affair.

In front of the VIP tent were hundreds of adoring EDM fans ready to experience UMF from a DJ booth perspective.

The movie was directed by Final Kid and conveyed what it’s like to play Ultra Music Festival from the eyes of DJ sensations such as Tiësto, David Guetta, Carl Cox, Fedde Le Grand, Boys Noize, Afrojack and more. In the hour before the movie began there was an actual DJ performing onstage while the seats began to fill; people got their drinks and everyone settled in for an amazing hour of mind blowing music.

Footage ranging from the Carl Cox and Friends stage to clips of the main stage put a smile on everyone’s face. By the time Avicii’s “Levels” came on the crowd was jumping up and down, fist pumping in delight as fog and fire burst from the stage. The crowd at the movie premiere was just a small preview of what we were to expect over the three day festival with nearly 200,000 attendees.

April 12, Thursday [Fluxx] EDM w/ EC Twins April 12, Thursday [Voyeur] Michael Woods April 12, Thursday [207 | Hard Rock] Shock G April 13, Friday [Fluxx] Melo D & Hyena April 13, Friday [Voyeur] Starkillers

The film did a great job of showing the massiveness of Ultra and highlighted the weather, the energy, and the insane amount of people from all over the world who come out to this unique experience. Ultra Music Festival has been invading south beach for 13 years before this film and now everyone gets to see what they are missing. “Dance music is going to be bigger than us,” says David Guetta in the film. “The whole world is dancing.” Dancing freely and spreading positivity, we felt amazing. Can you feel it?

April 13, Friday [Float | Hard Rock] DJ Fingaz April 14, Saturday [Fluxx] Sid Vicious April 14, Saturday [Voyeur] Steve Duda April 15, Sunday [Float | Hard Rock] GRAND OPENING INTERVENTION April 19, Thursday [Fluxx] Edward Maya April 19, Thursday [Voyeur] Felix Cartal April 20, Friday [Fluxx] Brett Bodley & Ricky Rocks April 20, Friday [Voyeur] Lazy Rich April 21, Saturday [Fluxx] DJ Scooter April 21, Saturday [Voyeur] Mr. White April 22, Sunday [Float | Hard Rock] Intervention April 26, Thursday [Voyeur] Pendulum DJ Set April 27, Friday [Fluxx] DJ Reach April 28, Saturday [Fluxx] Sid Vicious & Rico DeLargo April 29, Sunday [Float | Hard Rock] Intervention Log on to MyClubScene.com now to see more events and get on the list! niteguidemag.com 31

March IN REVIEW: FEATURED EVENTS Indie-popsters keep the Fun. alive

Sacramento State University Union Ballroom [Sacramento]

By Allie Imai | Photos by MyClubScene.com | Heather Hawke On Monday, March 26, Sacramento State’s University Ballroom was taken over by three indie darlings by the name of Fun. The venue was packed with young students eager to gain an opinion on this band’s first local performance. From opening to close, the trio kept the audience belting out lyrics with their hands in the air. Sporting a jean jacket and hip pompadour haircut, lead singer Nate Ruess bounced energetically from one corner of the stage to the other, throwing every ounce of his energy into each catchy lyric and charismatically winning over everyone in attendance.

Based out of New York City, the band has essentially taken the music charts captive with their American indie pop sound and happy-go-lucky single “We Are Young.” When his former band The Format split in 2008, Ruess wasn’t quite ready to retire his famous pipes, immediately recruiting musician friends Andrew Dost and Jack Antonoff for a new project.

The touring life then became a familiarity for the boys, jumping on as opening talent for Jack’s Mannequin in 2009, Paramore in 2010 and Panic! At The Disco last year. Their second album Some Nights has only been on the shelves for two months, but these young gifted musicians have caught a wave of success that they are no doubt going to ride out as far as their talents allow them to, much to the thrill of many new fans.

Their nearly sold-out nationwide tour continues on through June, even including a date at Tennessee’s coveted Bonnaroo Festival.

St. Patrick’s Day Bash Tilted Kilt [Long Beach]

By Amanda Warlick | Photos Courtesy of MyClubScene.com | Brian Brown Pouring rain did not stop the Tilted Kilt Pub and Eatery from gaining a crowd of drinking individuals celebrating Saint Patrick’s Day. The Irish pub flowed with green beer, kilted waitresses, and a drunken diversity of individuals old and young.

The crowd arrived bright and early at noon and as the hours passed, more green shirts filled the territory. While chugging down their beverages, customers bobbed their heads to the live Irish themed music played by Dublin Public, Hoist of Colors, and Anita and the Yanks. It would not be a Saint Patrick’s Day celebration without bagpipe player Scott MacDonald to liven up the bar area. Empty cups and beer bottles lined the rims of the dining area. No chairs remained empty and the tables they surrounded consisted of mouth-watering burgers to cater to the vast amount of alcoholic consumption. Cocktail waitresses ran around with a smile in their plaid kilts, bare midriffs, and Saint Patrick’s Day accessories, fetching food and beverages to meet the needs of each and every guest. The Tilted Kilt also provided festive Coors Light shamrock necklaces to sport around in style. It was a tight fit, but the ultimate way to spend Saint Patrick’s Day, Irish style.

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The Temper Trap Takes Over The Glass House [Pomona]

By Drew Leahy | Photography by MyClubScene.com | J Dixx Photography While festival season approaches and music lovers across the globe remember their favorite festival songs of the past, the scintillating falsetto of Temper Trap’s “Sweet Disposition” envelops the mind. On March 21, The Temper Trap took their indie rock sound to The Glass House in Pomona, and showed the sold-out crowd in attendance just how sweet of a disposition the sing-a-long melodies of lead singer Dougy Mandagi render.

With over two years elapsing since their debut studio album, and the release of their second album slated for June 5, anticipation filled the crowd waiting to hear the latest songs from the Australian natives. The band played just over an hour long set that featured hit songs from the album Condition like “Love Lost,” “Fader,” “Rest,” and of course, “Sweet Disposition.” However, the set was heavy with high-energy, emotionally infused songs like “Need Your Love,” off their forthcoming, self-titled album. The bands transcendent guitar licks, dramatic chord-progressions, and driving kick drum kept the hips of those in the crowd in flux, while their catchy vocal melodies commanded the crowd to sing along. In an era where auto tune dominates studio sessions, live performances tend to expose the vocal weakness of lead singers, which makes Dougy’s flawless performance of falsetto and high vocal octaves at The Glass House all the more impressive. What made this show even more of a success was the bands ability to replicate the energy and emotion of its songs in a live setting in a seemingly effortless fashion. If you’re looking for a band that delivers a live performance worth the price of admission, The Temper Trap is your answer.

RockAbilly Festival With The Rev The Observatory [Santa Ana] Story & Photos by Christina Montaldo Everyone dressed in their Saturday best and headed out to The Observatory in Santa Ana on March 10, for the Rockabilly Festival.

Girls wore polka dot dresses and had their hair sculpted to perfection with a variety of beautiful up-do’s, and many of the guys sported suspenders, Chuck Taylors, and slicked back hair. Reverend Horton Heat, Wanda Jackson, Supersuckers and more rocked the stages of this awesome venue.

After entering, you found two stages with great sound and amazing energy moving between the performers and the crowd. There were also burlesque dancers, to-die-for drink specials and art from local artists.

I couldn’t think of a better venue to hold an event like this, where every band had stage presence with positive crowd reception. Every time you left one room, a good time was waiting for you in the next. Great vibes and people filled the entire evening, and Reverend Horton Heat and the other performers brought in an amazing crowd of people to the venue. By the end of the night everyone was dancing, laughing and having the best time. The night definitely ended way too quickly, but from my perspective, new friends and memories were made as everyone left the venue with a smile on their face.

See more photos from these events and others at www.MyClubScene.com

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Niteguide magazine’s march issue release party Story & Photography by Christina Montaldo | MyClubScene.com

N

iteGuide Magazine and the organization INK FOR PINK teamed up at the Yost Theater in downtown Santa Ana to throw an awesome party on Saturday, March 31. With a great crowd, great drink specials, a fashion show by the INK FOR PINK models, and the celebration of the March issue of NiteGuide,

this was a night to remember.

DJ Skeet Skeet, DWNTWN, DJ Phillip Dixon and DJ Dik filled the evening with some amazing music for everyone to enjoy. INK FOR PINK (also known as INK FOR CAUSES) is a group of individuals bringing together the tattoo community to raise funds in order to help people struggling with the effects of breast cancer. The company started six months ago and has already taken off a great deal.

Their efforts have reached talk radio shows and inspired a clothing line, and has held benefits and walks to raise money in the name of helping women and men dealing with breast cancer. I had the privilege of meeting and talking with the director of marketing from INK FOR PINK, Jeremy Hughes.

“I absolutely love working for this company and for charities in general. The positiveness coming out of the patients we get to meet and deal with is absolutely life changing. Just knowing how much struggle each patient goes through and how positive their attitude is, is something that I can’t describe to you,” says Hughes. “Just knowing that you’re helping this person’s life a little bit is just, refreshing.”

The release party was carried out in true NiteGuide fashion, and not even the rain could keep the masses away.

The NiteGuide logo beemed on the curtains and ran across the massive LED light boards, creating a sense of community inside the walls of the Yost. On hand as always were the beautiful NiteGuide models, who were mixing and mingling with the crowd. The night moved along way too quickly, with plenty of positive vibes all around. The bartenders kept killer drinks coming all evening long, while the DJs, Yost, and NiteGuide crews put on an amazing show for everyone who attended. Be sure to check out the next party that NiteGuide throws, you won’t be disappointed! Email vip@niteguidemag.com to get on the guestlist.

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OLGA Solomina MYCLUBSCENE.com April 2012 VIXEN Photo by Barry Druxman

April

backstage

Revival-style rock heroes captivate The Observatory

T

he stage was dimly lit with a calming purple hue, shadowing the collection of eclectic instruments waiting to come to life.

There was a tense anticipation in the air as fans of all ages packed themselves closer and closer to the front and waited to welcome the band. Enter frontman Alex Ebert in a white linen suit, joined by his nine band mates and greeted with unwavering screams of excitement from the crowd. Jumping straight into “Janglin,” the band’s voices echoed with the audience on every lyric, and a two-hour singalong began. Throughout their show, the band members interacted with their fans on an impressively personal level, hugging fans left and right and taking song requests. Each musician seemed to put their heart, soul and passion into their performance with a lighthearted attitude and unwavering positivity. Much to the surprise of those watching, the show was carried on without a setlist, an improvisation that was charmingly fitting to the character of the group. As the night came to a close, a group of young kids jumped on stage from the crowd to lend their voices to the emotionally charged hit “Home,” ending a perfectly complete set and sending fans home smiling.

Lead vocalist Alex Ebert is not a newcomer to the scene, previously offering lead vocals to rock band Ima Robot until a call for a metaphorical rebirth seemed necessary. Ebert met singer Jade Castrinos in Los Angeles and with the addition of eight creatively odd musicians, Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros released their

By Allie Imai | Photos by MyClubScene.com | Heidi Darby

first album in 2009 and have been touring ever since. Their folk-revival sound and organic lyrics are comfortably refreshing, and thanks to word-of-mouth, the traveling band of musicians has been booking sold-out shows and festivals nationwide. We sat down with Jade Castrinos and fellow singer Nora Kirkpatrick in The Observatory’s green room before their show to get the scoop on what’s next for the band. Kirkpatrick promises their continuing tour dates will include a large amount of new material. “We have too many songs for the record, we recorded like 40, so we’re trying to figure out which ones we are going to play during the shows and which ones are going to be on the next album, which should come out about 6 months after the first one,” she says. Catch the remainder of their tour this spring and summer as they travel across the United States and make a few stops in Europe.

April

Art & Music

Musink 2012

By Drew Leahy | Photos by MyClubScene.com | Christina Montaldo

I

n Orange County, tattoos and music are embedded deeply in the roots of the county, existing as a cultural movement of expression where rock n’ roll bleeds from the hearts of its locals, and human skin is a canvas for art. In a city rich with tattoo and musical heritage, the OC Fairgrounds provided the perfect platform for the fifth annual Musink Tattoo Convention and Music Festival. With over a hundred of the worlds finest artists joining forces with live bands, Musink is a testament to the cultural perseverance of tattoos, and a celebration of an alternative way of life.

There were more than a hundred tattoo artists from around the world honing their craft at their respected booths, including Mark Mahoney (Shamrock Social Club, LA), Tommy Montoya (NY Ink), James Vaughn (Ink Masters, TLC), Yushi (Japan), and Adrian Willard (UK). The syncopated buzzing of tattoo guns seemed inescapable, drawing attention to the concentration and precision of the artists as well as their mastery of design. Fine Arts artists like Gris Grimley (Mad Creator), Gustavo Rimada, and HB local, Cam Rackam, also attended the convention to showcase their art and unique taste of expression through drawing and painting.

Local tattooists like Larry Casas of Players Club Tattoo in Huntington Beach made a strong representation for Orange County tattoo artists amid a talented pool of global participants. “They actually treat the artists better here than at other conventions. Everyone seems happy here and are treated a little better,” says Casas of Musink. Agreed: the camaraderie and respect amongst the artists, tattooists and fine art artists alike, could not be denied.

Musink also hosted daily tattoo contests with guest artist judges, where artists could submit tattoos in different categories like “Tattoo of the Day,” back piece, arm/leg sleeve, traditional, realistic, black and grey, and color.

Each night culminated in live performances from headliners Tiger Army (Friday), New Found Glory (Saturday), and Alkaline Trio (Sunday), with support from Yellowcard, Bayside, Against Me, Hell or Highwater, the Howlers, and the Guana Batz. Tattoo covered musicians took the stage to not only showcase their music, but to show off their ink. In an era where music and tattoos are as synonymous with one another as the title of this festival suggests, the success of tattoo covered musicians and festivals like Musink prove that though once of the subaltern, tattoos are now culturally accepted, and celebrated.

Beyond Wonderland NOS Events Center | San Bernardino

Photos courtesy of MyClubScene.com | Martin Clara

Lake TahoE Goes Awol

By Fred Dyoll | Photos by Holly Marie Bethers and Seva Kalashnikov

A

nother Way of Life, better known as A.W.O.L., threw another

at Onsen Beach & Nightclub. Also keeping things moving on Saturday

amazing event, this time in scenic Lake Tahoe. During February

were the Manufactured Superstars, whose blend of electro and hits

24, 25, and 26 A.W.O.L. Snow provided a weekend full of

kept people in a near frenzy inside the crowded indoor beach club.

amazing music in a winter wonderland.

The energetic vibe carried through on Sunday when Scottish-born DJ/ producer Chris Lake took over at Blu Nightclub along with Bart B More.

Conceptualized by San Diego taste makers, A.W.O.L. was created to offer a progressive getaway centered around music and located at 5-star destination resorts and nightclubs

Opening for Sunday’s headliners was up-and-comer and A.W.O.L. permanent resident Anthony Attalla who warmed up the crowd before Chris Lake took the stage.

throughout the United States and Mexico.

A.W.O.L. strives to create an experience

Though the nighttime festivities offered

that offers the opportunity to make lasting

non-stop EDM excitement until the sun

connections and enjoy an environment full of forward-thinking and open-mindedness. Previous

came up, the afternoons offered plenty of variety and fun as well. Guests wandered the

events have featured DJs including Calvin Harris, Roger Sanchez

vacation destination enjoying skiing and snowboarding at Heavenly

and Dirty South, with the Lake Tahoe version providing yet another

Ski Resort, snowmobiling and sledding in the nearby mountains, and

incarnation of the celebrated event.

gambling at Harrah’s and Harvey’s Hotel and Casinos. The momentum of A.W.O.L. events show no sign of slowing, and A.W.O.L. Snow was

On Friday, February 24 Cedric Gervais kicked off the weekend party at

only the first of four events slated for 2012. This October the group

Blu Nightclub located inside the Mont Bleu Resort and Casino. Gervais

takes over Nikki Beach in Cabo San Lucas for its third year in a row,

was originally from France, and after relocating to Miami, Florida,

and is welcoming first time events A.W.O.L. Boulevard in Los Angeles

he became one of the most sought after DJs in South Beach, and

during May 25-27 and A.W.O.L. Strip in Las Vegas during July 20-23.

everyone at Blu Nightclub understood why as they happily danced the

These two new additions are already creating a buzz, and with the

night away. On Saturday visual-oriented Dutch DJ/producer Sander

praise and success of past events, it’s no wonder why.

Kleinberg dominated the decks with his techno-infused house beats

www.tryawol.com

YetiZen GDC

Ruby Sky | SAn Francisco

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April

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SHarkeez HB

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ATB

Playhouse | Hollywood

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Miami, Fl

Ultra Music Festival 2012

By Alejandra Loera Photography by MyClubScene.com | Chris Day, Greg Gibbs, Jade Hillstrom, Jarod Farina, Jen Gray

O

n the weekend of March 23, tens of thousands of Electronic Music fans from all over the world flocked to the sunny beaches of Miami, Florida to experience the 14th annual Ultra Music Festival.

Known for the biggest acts and production, this was the largest Ultra to date with an estimated 165,000 attendees over the course of the threeday festival. Ultra Music Festival takes place at the tail end of Winter Music Conference and is the flagship event during Miami Music Week — it’s the after-party to an amazing week filled with DJs, producers, artists and EDM fans, all sharing their passion for music in this magnificent city.

The city skyline, bay filled with yachts and crystal clear waters created the perfect setting for this Ibiza-like festival. Everywhere you looked the city was invaded by EDM fans dressed in the brightest colors and most outrageous outfits. The highlight of Friday evening was when Skrillex took over the main stage with his new spaceship DJ booth, which actually looked like it was ready for takeoff at one point! When he dropped “Promises” all the screens went white and fog filled the air as everyone blindly jumped up and down. With electrifying graphics in the background, crazy lasers, fog, beach balls floating around in the sea of people, and girls up on shoulders dancing to the “Ruff Neck Bass,” the view from the VIP was quite mesmerizing. His performance really delivered and there’s no question why he was this year’s International Dance Music Awards “Best Solo Artist” winner.

Day two of UMF was even crazier with what seemed like twice as many people in attendance. There was so much talent on all the stages it was difficult to decide where to go every hour. The Carl Cox Presents Cocoon stage was a definite highlight, as the dance party went on all day and night. The honeycomb looking screens flashed to the beat as awesome tech-house blared from the speakers. As he played Joe Brunning’s “Now, Let Me See You Work,” I felt as if I was in Ibiza dancing with hundreds of strangers in bikinis.

The biggest surprise of the evening was when Madonna announced Avicii on the main stage. “In my world the words music and dance are not separated,” she yelled to thousands of screaming fans and millions of viewers at home. The Queen of Pop continued, “Electronic music has been a part of my life since the beginning of my career and I can honestly say that a DJ saved my life!” There was so much love in the air backstage on this magical evening as Justice, Madonna, David Guetta, Avicii and more rejoiced in the success of the EDM movement in America.

As the festival came to a close on Sunday and everybody’s tans were sinking in, we were nursing the most epic hangovers and ready to dance our asses off one last time. Though Fedde le Grand was a killer dance party and there were so many amazing, talented DJs and producers to see, my favorite was Knife Party. Even though their set was during the day, they came out in full force and rocked that main stage with their dubstep electro house sound. Having seen their electronic rock band Pendulum on the very same stage the year prior, I was reminded why I will continue to make the trip to Miami every year. The music unites people and cultures from all parts of the world, and Ultra Music Festival captures that essence year-after-year.

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Steve Aoki & Pendulum Pacha Event @ Ice Palace | Miami

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FeatureD DJ

april Tiësto breaks down the rise of EDM in America, and how social media is fueling the fire.

I

f there’s one DJ who evokes immediate recognition, it’s Tiësto. The global superstar continues to write electronic dance music history by achieving genre firsts. He set new industry standards in 2002 by selling out an arena in the UK, performed at the Olympic opening ceremonies in Athens, and recently gave Twitter its first ever real-time performance for millions of fans.

With the rise of EDM in America soaring to new heights, the highly regarded music man offers precious insight into the stateside acceptance of electronic dance music.

NiteGuide Magazine: How does the US compare to Europe when it comes to embracing EDM? Tiësto: It’s taken a bit longer for the US to embrace it, but they’re now coming around to it fully and it’s really exciting to watch happen. The US fans are also more open to all styles of dance music, while fans in Europe tend to favor a specific style more. They are also more and more educated in music. You’ll play shows in a distant college town and they know all the lyrics to my songs!

It is amazing!

NGM: How do you feel the pop-electronic crossover has played a part in the rise of EDM? Tiësto: Without a doubt it has introduced a lot of people to electronic music.

Having dance music on mainstream radio has exposed the sounds to a much broader audience in the US than ever before. It has provided an entry point from which people can get into EDM. NGM: What artists have carved a path for the popularity of EDM, allowing new artists like Skrillex and Avicii to shine? Don’t be afraid to cite yourself.

Tiësto: There are definitely a handful of DJs and producers that have carved a path for this popularity. Whether it is artists like David Guetta achieving mainstream radio success with dance-pop/R&B crossover records, or my success in being one of the top touring acts in the world, there’s no doubt these artists

By Heidi Darby have helped create an environment in which new artists like Skrillex and Avicii can get noticed on a totally different level from before. That’s not to take away anything that they are doing. It is great to see Skrillex for example, bringing in a totally new audience to EDM and inspiring new DJs and producers.

NGM: You’ve played to crowds of multiple thousands of people, was there a particular year when you noticed electronic music started drawing more fans?

Tiësto: Though 2010 was a huge year for me, playing to more than 1 million people globally, since then the crowds have only got bigger and bigger. Being able to do a 20 date tour of US colleges with full production as we did in 2011 would have been impossible a few years ago, as would selling out the LA show in October. You can see the growth in fans from the huge attendance that EDM festivals here in the US are now seeing. Every year they are getting so much bigger and new ones are starting up.

NGM: Social media has been playing a crucial role for all music. Tell us about your performance at CES in Las Vegas?

Tiësto: It was an incredible night and I was really delighted to achieve another first with the first live-streamed gig on Twitter ever. Working with my partners HP/Intel was fantastic. It showed how far technology has come when I can play a show in Las Vegas and fans across the US and the rest of the world can watch me perform in real-time. It was great to be able to share the experience with my fans.

NGM: How do you feel these types of performances will affect the music community?

Tiësto: It is really hard to say as it is all in such early stages, but hopefully it will help spread the word about dance music even further. It is great from my perspective as I’ve got such a global following and I’m only able to be in one place at a time. I also think it helps solidify the connection between artists and their fans further, which from my perspective is really important. niteguidemag.com 49

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Above & Beyond Biscayne Park | Miami

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HOROSCOPE Aries March 20- April 20

By Kristin Halberg

Happy Bir thday Aries!

about money. Spend only when you have to, or you will get into trouble with finances.

Love: Last year probably wasn’t the greatest of years love wise, and this year you should get some stability. Finding solace at home is definitely something to consider, especially for you married Aries out there! Intimacy will grow stronger, deeper; and you should just go where the love takes you. Unattached? Look for a chance meeting with an intriguing stranger. This could turn

This year is about peace and harmony for you Aries… time to do

into friendship, which could lead to something more, if you

some Spring cleaning! The “out with the old” mentality should

wish. Don’t overlook what might be right in front of you. As the

be on your mind to have a great and successful year. It is time to

year changes into those hot months, let your heart warm to the

let go of some extra baggage, whether it be personal or proffe-

idea of that “chance meeting.” It might be everything you didn’t

sional. Since you are a sign of action, this should be a wonderful

know you were looking for!

challenge, one you are ready to tackle head on! All those fantasies about where you want to be in life should be coming into focus, and making it happen is your new project. So get going!

Career: This is a year of normalcy as far as work is considered. Don’t get too involved in what doesn’t concern you, and you should be just fine. As long as you get your job done on a day-to-day basis, it should be a rather mundane year for your career. And in this economy, that is great news! However, don’t be unwise 54 niteguidemag.com

Lucky Days: 4, 11, 19

W Hotel & Burn Studios DJ Lab Launch W Hotel | Miami

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Juicy Beach | Robbie Rivera Nikki Beach | Miami

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