EAT - DRINK - PARTY
The March 2012: Issue 27
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
RISE OF EDM The Electronic Dance Music Issue
Table Of Contents 4 The List
YOUR SCENE - YOUR NIT E - YOUR GUIDE
5 Can You Feel It-The UMF Experience 6 Making the Music 8 Featured Dishes: Hand Held Treats 10 Featured Dishes: Pizza Lovers 12 Featured Dishes: For the Irish 14 Featured Drinks 16 Featured Alcohol 18 Featured Venue 20 Nitelife Around The World: Miami 24 The Rise of EDM 25 Robbie Rivera 26 Sander van Doorn 28 Above & Beyond 30 Avicii 32 Bar/Club Directory 34 12th Planet 38 MyClubScene.com March 2012 Vixen 40 Colette
MyClubScene.com March 2012 Vixen Carissa Rosario Photo by Nick Sagliembeni
42 February in Review: Featured Events 44 NiteGuide Magazine’s 2 Year Celebration Tour 46 Photo Recaps
All rights reserved @ 2012, the entire contents of this publication are protected by copy right. No part of this publication March 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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53 Kitty’s Guide 56 Horoscope
THE LIST THE PUBLISHER I’m proud and excited to take our March “Electronic Music” issue across the country to the Ultra Music Festival in Miami for the second consecutive year. Copies of the issue will be in the VIP gift bags at the festival, where we will be collecting onsite DJ and fan interviews. The footage from Ultra, in addition to EDM coverage from Southern California, will be complied for NiteGuide Magazine’s first-ever documentary, and I can’t wait for our fans to have a look. We also enjoyed our Two Year Anniversary, comprised of a three day celebration with staff and our amazing readers. March is going to be full of amazing events, and NiteGuide will there to share the coverage in next month’s issue.
Justin Stearman Publisher
See the behind the scenes video with Steve Aoki! Look out for his cover story in April 2012 View online at www.NiteGuideMag.com
THE CREATIVE DIRECTOR What a month! For our March issue the staff and I worked around the clock to gather the very best in Electronic Dance Music. We secured artist interviews with DJs including Avicii, 12th Planet, Robbie Rivera, and the lovely DJ Colette to give our readers insight on the state of EDM and where the genre is heading. With all of our hard work, we also made time to play. NiteGuide celebrated its Two Year Anniversary with a weekend of partying at the best clubs in Southern California. Myself and my staff had a great time at Playhouse in Hollywood, Ten in Newport Beach, and Float in San Diego. I can’t wait to see what the next year will bring!
Photo by Doug Hac
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Nicole Lloyd Director of Operations
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 Shannon Nehls shannon@myclubscene.com Chief Restaurant Editor Jeff Fliegler Marketing Manager Allison Imai Distribution Manager Tarry Silvey Cover Photo By www.JoeGazzola.com Photographers Adrian Perez Armando Cardenas Brian Brown Brian Hmurovich Christina Montaldo Christopher Bormann Dave Orell Jamie Dixx Jason Worthen Jennifer Cartwright John Nguyen Josh Raab Kevin Sam Martin Clara Matthew Copley Patrick Strube RG Benhard Robert Rodriguez Theresa Lomavaya William Wu Staff Writers Adéllyn Polomski Adrian Matthew Perez Allison Imai Alysia Batchelder Christian Williams Deanna Rilling Emmanuel Cayanan Fred Dyoll Jamie Dixx Jonathan Fossler 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
Can U Feel It The UMF Experience
“The whole world is dancing,” David Guetta, from Can U Feel It: The UMF Experience.
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Photography by Justin Stearman
n March 21 the Ultra Music Festival full-length feature film Can U Feel It: The UMF Experience will preview in Miami’s Bayfront Park Amphitheater, and will appear in theaters worldwide for one night only on March 22.
In 1999 the first Ultra Music Festival took over Miami, and over the past twelve years the event has brought in elite electronic acts from around the world, and grown in to a global brand. With a 2012 lineup boasting the very best in EDM, the premiers fall just two days before this years Ultra, granting fans a taste of what’s to come. Made by Final Kid Films, the movie offers interviews with up and coming superstars and founding DJs that have graced the Ultra stages. Carl Cox, Armin van Buuren, Tiesto, Afrojack, and Avicii are only a handful of the power-house talent that participated in the film.
“It’s the biggest dance party in the world” says Tiesto about UMF. Miami has often been heralded as a mecca for electronic dance music, and with Ultra selling out year after year, the electronic community seems to agree. The raw energy of UMF is caught on film, with brilliant colors and amazing shots of the crowd encapsulating the other-worldly vibe of the event. Shots spanning over the waves of attendees and close-ups of the fans tell the story not only through the eyes of the DJs, but from the perspective of the fans as well. With a new generation of music taking over, Can U Feel It takes viewers inside the process of one of the most sought after festivals in the world. With multiple stages and roughly 100,000 festival goers rallying for a three day weekend, the experience of Ultra Music Festival will light up the big screen. To see photos and video from Ultra last year visit www.NiteGuideMag.com
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March
DJ Equipment
Making the music
A
n unruly storm unruly exists in the vast sea of electronic music production and performance. Over the past few years, the industry has witnessed a swift turn towards software based technology. Producers and DJs alike are using these innovations, coupled with the versatility of MIDI controlled devices, to create new-age live experiences. The “live” concept is a new and interesting development amongst professional DJs word-wide. In the quest to surpass the monotony that consumes the industry, these musicians are producing their music in a real-time format for their audience. Manufacturers are responding to this sudden emphasis on software and the expected versatility of controllers. While older companies, like Akai and Pioneer, still control large portions of the sales market, this shift in preferences made it possible for new businesses to emerge. Lucky for today’s performers, competition means innovation. In an effort to respond to this trend, and to revive the original personal drum machine, Akai has released the MPC Renaissance. By fusing the sound and feel of the original device with the multifaceted components of production software, Akai has given the product a whole new purpose. Live beat making and performance is now completely possible for stage-bound talents due to incredible functionality. The Renaissance gives musicians access to thousands of samples and unlimited possibilities. Endorsed by professionals like AraabMuzik, the MPC Renaissance will certainly be seen on stages in 2012. Livid Instruments is a MIDI device manufacturer focused on developing alternative interfaces and live performance tools. In 2011, they released a slew of mind-blowing products aimed at creating the most intuitive experience possible. Touch-sensitive beat pads, high quality faders, and rubberized knobs are mapped perfectly with software like Ableton Live and Native Instruments Traktor. Instead of the inexpensive materials used to make most controllers, Livid devices are crafted from fine woods and high equality metals at their factory in Austin, Texas. Multicolored LED lights and soft rubber pads made both the OhmRGB, and Richie Hawtin designed CNRL:R, immediate industry favorites. With utmost versatility in mind, these are the MIDI controllers of the future. This constantly evolving industry is quickly transforming and technology is the definite driving force. What was once an eclectic group of audiophiles is now a hip collection of infinitely cool, techobsessed rock stars. With boundary shattering electronic instruments of today mimicking such antics, its going to be a wild ride.
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By Maxfield
Glossary MIDI - Musical Instrument Digital Interface’s allow artists to control and utilize electronic music instruments. Seen most commonly in mappable DJ and production controllers. MPC - Music Production Center. Akai’s staple drum machine through the ages. Faders - Component of any sound equipment which lets the user change levels and mix tracks Mixer - A central device which allows aspects, or full phrases of sound from different sources to be played together through one audio output. CDJ - A device which gives a DJ complete control over tracks stored in many different mediums. While originally intended to cater to CD specific performers, they are now utilized with software and are able to incorporate media from a multitude of sources. Richie Hawtin - Global minimal techno DJ known for integrating software and digital mixing equipment into his performances.
March
Featured Food
Hand Held
Treats
S
ometimes you’re allowed to eat with your hands, in fact there are occasions when it’s downright encouraged. Hand held cuisine can be casual or elevated, but as long as the flavor profiles are spot on and the texture is appealing, no one will mind putting down the silverware and picking up the grub.
By Jeff Fliegler
Puesto Taco Platter
Calimoo Sandwich
Strawberry Cheese Cake Waffle
Photo by Jeremy Newhouse
Photo by Jaime Murray
Downtown La Jolla added one new reason to come and visit. Puesto Mexican Street Food is an upscale fast-casual eatery that serves real authentic Mexican food made from whole, wonderful ingredients. The menu consists of mostly grilled foods, but it also has some traditional Mexican flavors like zucchini flowers and sweet potatoes for vegetarians out there as well. The corn tortillas are muy bueno, and the freshly made salsas are out of this world. One of the Salsa’s combines chipotle and hibiscus flower. WOW! The tacos are muy delicioso and they are cooked right in front of your eyes. Beef, chicken, fish or shrimp on the grill and you can customize it with whatever salsa your heart desires. This particular taco is the carne asada with corn truffle, tomatillo, and crispy cheese. It’s the real taste of street tacos from Mexico City, right in Downtown La Jolla.
Friends and partners Jay & Amir decided it was time to bring their great Persian food to Fullerton in an Americanized style. “We’re Persian but grew up in Southern California, it’s a fusion of our heritage and our love of California,” Amir commented. “It’s what I cook at home, it’s what I love,” Jay says. The cuisine is far from anything you’ll find locally. Everything is all-fresh, all-natural, all hormone and antibiotic free, proven by the fact that there is no freezer in the restaurant! They have a fresh concept, their own private label soda, watermelon juice, ice cream sandwiches, and they’re open late.
Orange County will add its third Bruxie, a quick-serve eatery, this spring. The concept, unlike any in the nation, serves sweet and savory gourmet waffle sandwiches. Bruxie’s opened their first location in 2010 in Old Town Orange, with the second location opening one year later on Birch Street Promenade in Brea Downtown. The newest location will open it’s doors in Rancho Santa Margarita at 22205 El Paseo. Luckily, The Rancho Santa Margarita version will be modeled after its sister restaurants. Bruxie takes authentic Belgian Waffles and pairs them with classic waffle toppings, and then adds a variety of toppings that may surprise you.
The Calimoo sandwich is made with flavorful turmeric-spiced beef and wrapped in pita bread. It doesn’t stop there. It’s finished with the amazing roasted tomato sauce, pickled tomato, caramelized onion, jalapeño, lettuce and cheese.
The Strawberry Cheese Cake Waffle has a graham cracker crust and is a truly indulgent bite of food. The sweet waffles are made with a Belgian pearl sugar baked into the dough that makes the waffle something really special. The sweet strawberries, graham crackers and cheesecake filling take this waffle over the top.
Puesto Mexican Street Food
CaliFire Grill
1026 Wall Street La Jolla, CA 92037 858.455.1260 | www.eatpuesto.com
133 W Chapman Ave. Fullerton, CA 92832 714.578.0018 | www.califire.com
Bruxie
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www.bruxie.com 3 locations throughout Southern California
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March
Featured Food
Pizza
Lovers
F
ood, like fashion, often looks to the past to inspire the future. Recently there has been a renaissance with an old favorite… Pizza! But unlike your ordinary pizza from the corner shop, wood fire pizza with toppings beyond your imagination takes this old-world pie to a whole new level.
By Jeff Fliegler
Fig & Prosciutto Di Parma Pizza
Hazelnut Pesto Pizza
Artichoke, Arugula & Olive Pizza
Photo by Il Dolce Il Dolce is located on the corner of Harbor and 19th street in Costa Mesa. The pizza’s are all made from scratch and cooked in a wood fire oven. Roberto Bigne is the owner of this charming little restaurant, and on any given night, you can see him stretching pizza by hand and shoveling them into to the almond wood burning oven. Artesian pizzas are becoming a trend in Southern California dinning and Il Dolce is one of the best places to get a homemade pizza with all fresh ingredients cooked in a wood fire oven. The Figs and Prosciutto Di Parma pizza is a great example of why the artisan pizza movement is so strong. The crust is a perfect combination of crispy on the outside and soft in the middle, the Prosciutto and fig combination are salty and sweet and the slight hint of smoke flavor makes this pizza
Rosti Tuscan Kitchen provides delicious fare in a casual atmosphere. Patrons can grab a crisp salad and a delicious panini sandwich during their lunch hour, or sit with the whole family delving into huge bowls of pasta, brick pressed chicken, and rolled eggplant for dinner. Rosti has recently launched their glutenfree and vegan menu with over 30 options for diners with strict dietary requirements. The best part of Rosti’s is the pizza. The artisan pizzas at Rosti look like they came out of an oven in Tuscany. Every single pizza has crispy crust, sweet and tangy tomato sauce and a wonderful blend of mozzarella. You can try one of the chef’s specialties like the pesto and hazel nut pie shown here or you can make your own pizza just the way you like it.
one to remember.
Il Dolce 1902 Harbor Blvd. Costa Mesa, CA 92627 949.200.9107 | www.ildolceoc.com
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Rosti Tuscan Kitchen Locations throughout Southern California www.rostituscankitchen.com
When Mozza opened their doors in Newport Beach, the expectation was extremely high. Why wouldn’t it be when you have three owners as successful as Nancy Silverton, creator of La Brea Bakery, Mario Batali, television personality and owner of Babbo, and Joe Bastianich, wine maker, author and famous restauratuer leading the menu? The expectations have not only been met, but far surpassed. Creative menu writing and perfect execution makes the food at Mozza a treat for any food lover. The pizzas are rustic, and the crust could be enjoyed by itself. The addition of artichokes, arugula and olives make it just plain delicious! The peppery arugula, salty olives and earthy artichokes make for a nearly perfect bite of food. If Artichokes and olives aren’t your thing, don’t worry there are plenty of wonderful combinations to excite even the most finicky pallet.
Mozza 800 W Coast Hwy Newport Beach, CA 92663 949.945.1126 | www.pizzeriamozza.com
March
Featured Food
For the
Irish
S
t. Patrick’s Day is a great excuse to indulge in Irish drinks, but there’s great Irish cuisine out there too. Simple, comforting and tasty, the food on St. Patrick’s Day is one representation of the warmth and humble upbringing of the Irish people.
By Jeff Fliegler
Corned Beef & Cabbage Sandwich
Irish Breakie
The Tilted Kilt is half Irish Pub and half sports bar, located in Long Beach. It’s a great place to kick back, have a beer and watch the game with a twist of Irish flair. The servers are easy on the eyes, dressed in plaid miniskirts, reinforcing the slogan “A cold beer never looked so good!” There are always plenty of events coming to the Tilted Kilt, mostly revolving around sports.
The Harp Inn is the starting point (or the ending point) for the infamous 17th Street pub crawl in Costa Mesa. It is also one of the more authentic no-frills Irish pubs in OC. There is plenty of Guinness and whisky to drink, especially on the weekends where you can catch some great local music. It’s also a great place to be during any of the world cups: rugby, soccer, or any of your favorite sports from across the pond.
This year stop by for the Slow Roasted Traditional Corned Beef and Cabbage Sandwich with spicy mustard, Swiss cheese on rye bread, and a side of chips. It encompasses the classic St. Patty’s day dish with thickly sliced corn beef, pickled cabbage and placed between two slices of rye bread. When asked about the sandwich, the chef simply says, “Just like my Papi used to make it.”
Tilted Kilt 6575 E. PCH Long Beach, CA 90803 562.795.0163 | www.longbeach.tiltedkilt.com
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St. Patrick’s Day isn’t just a one day celebration at the Harp. It will be going all weekend, and this year they are importing the Young Wolf Tones from Ireland, who are controversial for their support of the I.R.A. during the time when the North and the South were at war.
Shepherd’s Pie
O’Brien’s Pub in Santa Monica is owned and operated by Willy O’Sullivan, a native of Cork City, Ireland for 18 years. “It’s a local pub. Warm friendly atmosphere, dark wood, frequented by a host of locals and ex-pats,” O’Sullivan says. “Great, simple food, serving a great selection of Irish Whiskeys and some of the best tasting Guinness, west of Ireland.” Shepherd’s Pie is a dish the Irish adopted from the English, and made it their own. Lucky for us, O’Sullivan brought his version to Southern California and will be serving it this St. Patrick’s Day. It is made with all beef and the Irishman even includes carrots for the Protestants.
So before you get that first taste of Irish Crack (slang for Alcohol), get some food in your belly! Start your weekend off with a traditional Irish Breakie, consisting of eggs, beans and bangers... and keep your Irish taste buds smilin’.
The Harp Inn 130 E. 17th Street Costa Mesa, CA 92627 949.646.8855 | www.harpinn.com
O’Brien’s Pub 2226 Wilshire Blvd Santa Monica, CA 90403 310.829.5303 | www.obriensla.com
March
Featured Drinks Bacon Bloody Mary
The Flying Elephant Pub [Carlsbad] 850 Tamarack Ave, CA 92008 |760.434.660 | www.flyingelephantpub.com By Jeff Fliegler The Flying Elephant Pub and Grill is a little off the beaten path in Carlsbad. It’s a place to shoot pool, enjoy live music, and blow off some steam, but the most famous part of the Flying Elephant is Mikey the Bartender’s Bloody Marys. Almost every restaurant has a Bloody Mary, but very few can boast of a Bloody Mary like this one. It’s a bacon Bloody Mary, made by the infamous Mustache Mikey. He has taken the skill of Bloody Mary mixing to a new level. He makes his Bloody Marys with bacon, sizzling hot bacon to be specific. He also makes the Slim Jim Bloody Mary and another version with an Italian Meatball. People travel far and near for this famous Bloody Mary and it’s well worth it. Keep a lookout for Mustache Mikey’s Bloody Mary Mix coming soon to a store near you!
Spontaneous Happiness True Food Kitchen [Newport Beach]
451 Newport Center Dr, CA 92660 |949.644.2400 |www.truefoodkitchen.com By Jeff Fliegler True Food Kitchen is a beautiful restaurant located in Fashion Island. It is a perfect restaurant for the uber healthy Southern California lifestyle. The menu is based on a food pyramid that promotes anti-inflammatory and healthy living. Dr. Andrew Weil’s diet includes a high volume of fruits and vegetables along with heavy doses of ginger root, turmeric and herbs like elderflower. The cocktail called Spontaneous Happiness was created in honor of the Dr. Weil’s new book of the same name. The Ginger & Vanilla Infused Sochu with St. Germain elderflower and fresh lime is a lot harder to say then it is to drink. The ginger and lime hits you right away then the vanilla and elderflower smooth over the drink with a sweet subtlety. It’s a little bit like drinking a key lime pie, and it’s absolutely delicious.
Mad Ginger Cocktail Haven Gastropub [Orange County]
Locations in Orange and Pasadena | www.havengastropub.com By Jeff Fliegler With locations in historic Old Towne Orange and Old Pasadena, Haven Gastropub is a unique concept where “pub meets gourmet grub.” Gastropub, a British term blending gastronomy and pub, sprouted in the 1990s and has seen a revival. It provides a place where friends and family can gather in a warm comfortable setting and enjoy good conversation with quality food and spirited libations. Haven boasts a selection of craft beers on draught and more than 100 bottled craft beers. In addition, Haven serves more than 50 specialty single-malt whiskeys, scotches and bourbons; and a worldly wine list, with nearly 50 wines by the glass. Almost every dish on the menu has a beer or wine pairing suggestion. The mad ginger is a great St. Patrick’s Day cocktail made with Jameson Irish Whiskey, Snap Ginger Liqueur, and Cinnamon Syrup, created by Haven Gastropub bartenders and Partners Wil Dee and Executive Chef Greg Daniels.
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March
Featured alcohol A testimonial by Beverage Underground states, “We have discovered a gem of a vodka that shines bright both in the glass and at the bottom line without sacrificing quality, image or smoothness. Exclusiv Vodka may just be the best new ‘total package’ product for both on and off premise retailers and their staffs… This soft and silky distillate from Moldova is emerging as one of the best leaked secrets of spirits industry professionals.”
E
xclusiv Vodka not only boasts a taste competitive with top-shelf vodkas, the Russian rooted alcohol offers fine flavor at affordable prices making it a vodka perfect for any occasion.
With mild aromas of almond nougat and sweet cream, Exclusiv Vodka is earning a reputation for having a subtle complexity that pairs well with a variety of mixers, but can be enjoyed equally as a gimlet or on the rocks. Garnering praise from consumers for both the price and the taste, $10 buys more than a bottle of vodka, it works as a catalyst for a great evening. Critics have given Exclusiv praise for its “fruity medium body and smooth, lightly peppery finish,” making it one of the fastest growing vodka brands on the market today. Versatility also comes into play, and with vodka being a common component of various martini’s and cocktails, Exclusiv is smooth enough to blend in and crafted well enough to stand out from other vodkas. There’s no shortage of alcohol options, so finding a product that is praised by critics, delicious, and cost-effective is a definite bonus. Exclusiv Vodka is a renowned vodka-distiller and wine cultivator based in Moldova (a country recently gaining its independence from Russia) making it a product steeped in rich Russian tradition. The history of Exclusiv Vodka has aided in the positive feedback from The Beverage Tasting Institute, which holds annual tastings for various wines and alcohols. In January Exclusiv Vodka received its second near-perfect rating, earning 91 points and putting it in the “Exceptional” category alongside vodkas including Skyy, Chopin, and Finlandia. In 2011 it was named Best Value Vodka $10 and Under, and received the Gold Medal for the International Review of Spirits Award. Overall Exclusiv Vodka is a great way to save money and expend taste, making it the ideal drink for a massive pre-party or an intimate night cap, and with St. Patrick’s Day right around the corner, it’s a great option for a lucky cocktail.
2 oz Exclusiv Vodka 1/2 oz Creme de Cocoa 1 oz Bailey’s Irish Cream 1/2 oz green Creme de Menthe Shake first three ingredients. Pour into a chilled martini glass and then sink Green Creme de Menthe. Garnish with a mint leaf and chocolate shavings.
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Photo by www.exclusiv-vodka.com
Exclusiv Vodka’s St. Pat’s-Tini cocktail
las vegas
Featured venue
By Drew Leahy
Photo Credit Bryan Hainer
F
reemont Street in Downtown Las Vegas earned a hefty resume of “firsts,” including Las Vegas’ first hotel in 1906, the city’s first paved road, as well as its first carpeted casino. Now, in the midst of the revitalization of historic Downtown Las Vegas, the iconic Freemont Street East district once again welcomes another first of its kind: InsertCoin(s) Videolounge Gamebar, where innovative nightlife takes Vegas’ most in-demand club amenities including bottle service, VIP booths, and world-famous DJs, and combines it with classic arcades, console video gaming, and more than 1,724 video games for guests to enjoy. Inspired by a passion for gaming and events like Evolution (the world’s premier video game tournament in Las Vegas) Chris LaPorte, entrepreneur and founder of InsertCoin(s), decided to create his own venue where gamers could also enjoy the nightlife of Vegas. “It’s interactive nightlife; night life re-imagined,” Laporte says of InsertCoin(s). The venue utilizes over 60 refurbished arcade cabinets including classics like “Frogger,” “Donkey Kong,” and “Tron.” It also offers more than 40 game consoles from Atari 2600 to Sega Genesis to PS3, 44 large HDTV’s to play on, video game tournaments, and eight VIP couches that seat six to eight comfortably and include two TV’s with separate consoles. “Night life re-imagined” is an understatement. Whether its bellying up to the bar for a cocktail and a competitive game of Street Fighter or FIFA Soccer on one of the HDTV’s positioned in front of you, or a game of Pac Man on one of the coin-op arcades, InsertCoin(s) can deliver. “[InsertCoin(s)] appeals to your hardcore gaming community just as much as your casual gamer,” LaPorte said. It also appeals to the music lover looking for a night out on the dance floor. With past performances from De La Soul, KRS One, Talib Kweli, DJ C-Minus
(Foo Fighters), and the best DJs from around the world, InsertCoin(s) endeavors to continually bring the hottest musical acts to its stage. Not to mention Screenwerks very own Jordan Laws, world-renown Video DJ and pioneer of mixing audio and video live, is InsertCoin(s) resident DJ and answer for transforming the hottest club tracks into a full audio and visual experience. As InsertCoin(s) oneyear anniversary fast approaches, the club’s take on interactive nightlife proves a gigantic success as evidenced by the city of Las Vegas’ declaration of an official “InsertCoin(s) Day.” In the words of founder, Laporte, “You get a nightclub, but it’s a little something extra, and that entertainment value knows no boundaries.” www.insertcoinslv.com
MIAMI By Emmanuel Cayanan
A
s electronic dance music (EDM) continues to gain worldwide notoriety, it will be nearly impossible to exclude a place like Miami from its history. Home of the world’s premier EDM event, Ultra Music Festival, Miami has hosted some of the finest electronic talent in the world. The likes of Avicii, Skrillex and Miike Snow light up this year’s lineup. The city’s annual Winter Music Conference is also one of the largest music industry conventions in the electronic genre, and is a launch pad for new talent. The thumping beats of world-class EDM artists electrify and add to Miami’s already thriving nightlife scene, which can be characterized by ongoing upscale partying with the rich, the famous, and the beautiful. Hit up any of the world-renowned nightclubs or indulge in the city’s amazing people-watching on Lincoln Road, where the best in shopping, dining, and street performers come together. The best place to stay is on Collins Avenue, where a wide selection of hotels line the sidewalks and there are easy access points to the beach. When the sun sets over Miami, the heat only intensifies at night.
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Cameo
Legendary among South Beach nightclubs, Cameo brings A-
Nikki Beach
Nikki Beach draws together dining, fashion, art, music and
list, glamorous nightlife to South Beach. It was redesigned at
entertainment to create the ultimate beach club. Located
the turn of the millennium and took the lead of reviving Wash-
on the sand just off Ocean Drive, the open-air venue is an
ington Avenue and the rest of South Beach. The venue offers
upscale restaurant by day and a hot dance club and lounge
a great sound system where you can dance and an energetic
by night. It earns its ranking as one of Miami’s sexiest places
crowd. Drinks at this luxuriously lavish nightspot are on the
and is therefore a landmark in the nightlife scene. Nikki Beach
more expensive side. Dress to impress because there is a
hosts both private parties and large-scale events. Celebrities,
strict door policy.
VIPs, tourists and local partiers alike flock to Nikki Beach for a memorable oceanfront party scene. By day, enjoy a fabulous
LIV
A fixture at the Fontainebleau Hotel, LIV offers an exclusive
selection of food from the gourmet menu ranging from woodfire oven pizzas, sushi, seafood and flavors from the South of France and East Asia.
lounge and a high-energy nightclub. DJs spin rock, hip hop and house within the walls of this 18,000-square-foot venue, and is quite possibly the most Vegas-like nightclub in Miami. With a good-looking crowd, energetic Go-Go dancers, and
Mynt Lounge
Mynt Lounge on Collins Avenue is an upscale establishment
an upscale atmosphere, your experience at LIV may be well
that caters specifically to the elite crowd of Miami. The velvet
worth the exorbitant cover charge at the door.
rope is made of steel, and behind it is a spacious, sleek interior perfect for Miami’s VIP’s. The 40-foot bar in the Grand
SPACE
Lounge is open to everyone, but you can find most people in the booths enjoying bottle service. The club’s vibe is set by an
Amid a nightlife scene that rapidly changes, Club Space has
aromatherapy system infusing a variety of scents (including
secured its place as a staple in the nocturnal landscape of
mint, of course) into the air.
Downtown Miami. Celebrating 12 years of igniting Miami nightlife, Club Space, envisioned by famed club operator, Louis Puig, has become the city’s best offering for dance music and has seen the likes of Erick Morillo, Paul Van Dyk and Tiesto in the DJ booth. The state-of-the-art lighting, sound, and visual systems create an energetic atmosphere in the converted warehouse with three rooms—a VIP area, an upstairs loft and a rooftop patio.
To learn more about these venues and events log onto www.MyClubScene.com
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March
MIAMI & EDM
The Annual EDM Takeover In Miami: An overview of Winter Music Conference and the Ultra Music Festival
By Drew Leahy
F
or one week in March, the beaches, nightclubs, and pool parties
EDM. With more than 400 events taking place within the week of WMC,
of Miami host the world’s largest electronic dance music summit,
more than 100,000 people will attend from more than 70 countries, mak-
better known as the Winter Music Conference (WMC), aimed at
ing it the premier event for the advancement of EDM.
providing industry members with a comprehensive education in developing EDM across the globe. Not enough? Ultra Music Festival (UMF)
The Ultra Music Festival joined the party and advanced the industry as
adds an additional layer, bringing the industries most revered artists to
well. Just a one-day event in 1999, Ultra more than doubled in size since
the stage in South Beach, culminating the week of WMC with the largest
its inaugural year, and now hosts three days of the industries most in-
three-day electronic dance music festival in the world. As pioneers of the
demand DJs and cross-over acts alike. Though last year WMC and UMF
industry, WMC and Ultra take inventiveness to a whole new level, making
would part ways and conduct their events in separate weeks for the first
way for the rise of the cultural movement known as EDM.
time ever, this year the events will once again run concurrent, and Ultra reprises its very own week of electronic music mayhem with Miami Mu-
In 1986, Record Pool Directors and DJs Louis Possenti and Bill Kelly
sic Week. Over 200,000 fans are expected to attend this years sold out
commenced their first Winter Music Conference. With experience in
UMF to see artists like Tiesto, Skrillex, M83, Bassnectar, and Kaskade
music pools (a network of DJs and industry members exchanging pro-
to name a few. The festival owes its growth and success to continually
motional tracks for feedback and exposure in the clubs) Possenti’s and
bringing an ambitious lineup of the worlds leading artists together on
Kelly’s WMC resembled a much more ambitious type of music pool.
multiple stages to showcase new talent, making otherwise foreign artists
Instead of the distribution of solely music, WMC aspired to distribute
accessible to all. Like WMC, Ultra Music Festivals innovation and ingenu-
an education to those who sought to promote and advance the EDM
ity takes over South Beach this March, dedicated to the advancement
industry by those who were currently doing it. Now, 27 years later, WMC
of EDM.
still operates as the industries premier networking event for EDM. With seminars and panels hosted by the industries leading artists, record executives, legal representatives, and innovators of technology, attendees learn first hand how to sustain a career in EDM no matter where they fit in. Pool parties, DJ competitions, and club events throughout the week expose new talent, the event exhibits and workshops showcase aspiring artists and new technologies, and the International Dance Music Awards crown artists and industry members for their innovation and elevation of
22 niteguidemag.com
NiteGuide Magazine will be covering all of the action. Check it out in next months issue and online at www.NiteGuideMag.com EDM: electronic dance music WMC: Winter Music Conference (March 16-25) UMF: Ultra Music Festival (March 23-25) Miami Music Week: Ultra sponsors its very own week dedicated to EDM as the industries best DJ/producers take over the world-famous clubs of South Beach like Space, Amnesia, Electric Pickle, and Grand Central (March 20-25)
March
EDM Scene
The Rise of
Electronic Dance Music By Heidi Darby
R
eferring to the rise of electronic dance music as a phenomenon
breaking in new talent reveals that the scales of stardom are tipping in fa-
is an understatement. Over the past decade pop culture, and vir-
vor of the DJ, and altering the formula. Martin Solveig took Canadian elec-
tually every other music culture, has been infiltrated by ethereal
tro group Dragonette to a new level with the success of their hit “Hello,”
build-ups and domineering bass drops. Commercials, mainstream radio,
and while songstress Jes built an impressive resume, it was after her work
and even your favorite music icons are chasing the wildfire of Electronic
with Tiesto that she achieved newfound recognition in the music world.
Dance Music. Signs of mainstream acceptance exist in every facet of the entertainment The climb in mainstream popularity for the US stemmed from crossover
industry, from an Oscar win by Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross for their
success of artists like Fatboy Slim, The Chemical Brothers and Moby in the
electronic score for The Social Network in 2011, to the amazing haul of
late ‘90’s, but in 2009 EDM experienced a break into the mainstream like
Grammy awards that Dubstep king Skrillex took home in February, 2012.
never before. David Guetta released his single “Sexy Bitch” in July, topping
Many artists agree that social media outlets and YouTube played crucial
multiple worldwide charts and resonating with thousands of fans outside
roles in industry acceptance, where the volume of fan feed back can be
of the club scene. The same year The Black Eyed Peas released their fifth
measured, and word-of-mouth propels artists to new levels. The momen-
studio album, The E.N.D., providing a platform for electronic music to be
tum of the electronic movement is backed further by the performance
heard on a scale larger than ever before. The groups electronic-heavy hits
of supergroup Swedish House Mafia at Madison Square Garden in New
“Boom Boom Pow” and “I got a feeling” flooded radio stations and music
York, making the trio the first electronic act to play-and subsequently sell
outlets, simultaneously holding the #1 and #2 spots on The Billboard Hot
out-the iconic venue. The elevation of electronic music festivals are play-
100, and held on for 26 weeks between the two. Fan or foe, the Black
ing a role in the equation as well. With destination events like Ultra Music
Eyed Peas demanded the music industry take note that electronic music
Festival in Miami attracting attendees from every corner of the globe, and
was a force to be reckoned with.
Electric Daisy Carnival racking up multiple locations (including a New York addition in 2012) the marketability of EDM continues to grow.
Another driving factor behind the rise in popularity comes from the holy trinity of radio success: Pop star + high profile DJ/producer + hook worthy
Chart topping, electro-heavy singles have generated mainstream recogni-
chorus. The success of artist combos like Calvin Harris and Rihanna con-
tion for EDM, while long-time fans are vindicated by the explosion of the
tinue to attract attention from receptive audiences as well as industry insid-
EDM community. With electronic acts now selling out massive arenas, they
ers. DJ/producers have a positive track record with pop stars, (think Paul
achieve more than just phenom status; they solidify the rise of EDM.
Oakenfold and Madonna) but the recent influx of electronic superstars
W
ith a double album due out this spring, a new single “Turn It Around” featuring Jes, and Las Vegas residencies at XS and Surrender, Robbie Rivera shows no signs of slowing down in 2012. Residing in Miami, Florida for the last ten years provided the revered DJ with an electronic mecca at his fingertips every March during Winter Music Conference. His Juicy Beach Party at Nikki Beach will ignite for the seventh time this year during the week long conference, and in between his preparations for the lauded event, Rivera took time to discuss his experiences with WMC and how Juicy Beach came to fruition.
By Heidi Darby
NiteGuide Magazine: When did you move to Miami, and what was happening in Electronic Dance Music at this time? Robbie Rivera: I moved to Miami in 1992 from San Juan, Puerto Rico. At the time, EDM was not so popular in America but very big in Europe and especially in the UK. Bands like Faithless & Prodigy were very big, (along with) DJs like Paul Oakenfold, Sasha & Digweed, Junior Vazquez, and Danny Tenaglia. In America you had dance tracks on radio, but most were freestyle and euro-pop. NGM: What was your first experience with Winter Music Conference? RR: It was back in 1996 at The Fontainebleau Hotel. Back then it was a gathering of record labels, and some artists at the lobby bar meeting for drinks and a chat. I actually used to do a lot work and deals from 1996 to 2002. At night you would go to parties; if you were wearing a WMC Badge you had no problem getting in the door and didn’t have to pay a cover charge. There was no bottle service, VIP tables, nothing. Just hanging out listening to DJs like Erick Morillo, David Morales, and Louie Vega. It’s completely different now. NGM: You have three Ultra performances under your belt, correct? Which one stands out in your mind the most, and why? RR: The best one was the first one I did. I was playing one of the tents with 2,000 people, and when I arrived at the stage the crowd was cheering my name. What a great feeling. NGM: How do US festivals compare to other festivals around the world? RR: In my experience, US festivals have more energy and vibe. NGM: Your Juicy Beach Party has become a staple for the EDM takeover in Miami every year. Since you’re celebrating your seventh year, can you share how your specific event has changed over the years? RR: Back when we started Juicy Beach in 2005, I had artists like Axwell, Deadmau5, Kaskade and many others perform. However, since then, Ultra Music Festival has made it difficult to have DJs like these perform anymore because of their exclusivity. Juicy Beach was more of a gathering of the DJs that I love, all playing in the same place at Nikki Beach. It is still a huge event but now we bring up and coming artists that are relevant to today’s Juicy sound. My wife Monica came up with the concept of doing a day/night party at a 21-and-over age venue on the beach. We chose Nikki Beach because I have known the owner since 1999 and they are very professional people to work with and their venue is perfect for what we do. NGM: Where do you see the EDM genre heading?
Photo by Andres Hernandez
RR: I’d like to see the talented EDM producers produce more music for mainstream artists.
EDC 2010: Photo by Drew Rukes www.Rukes.com Keep up with Robbie Rivera at www.robbierivera.com. Dance or Die! North American Bus Tour kicks of March 28, 2012. For more info on JuicyBeach March 22, 2012 log onto www.juicybeach.net
March
Featured dj | Producer
S
By Allie Imai
ander van Doorn has made a name for himself in the electronic music scene, debuting in DJ Mag’s Top 100 list at #32 in 2006, and has since kept himself comfortable within the top sixteen range. His incredible performance energy and engagingly melodic underground trance style easily set him apart from the rest. We caught up with Sander before his show at Sutra in Orange County to discuss his new album Eleve11 and the impact that technology has had on the scene. NiteGuide Magazine: What influenced your decision to include more vocalists and songwriters in your new album? Sander van Doorn: For me, an album is definitely a platform to experiment with different styles. In this case with regards to going for a little bit more mature style, I worked with vocalists and text writers. I’ve always been very picky with regards to vocals, so for this album it was actually really cool to start working with getting into the depth of how to make a good vocal track. NGM: 2011 was a big year for you in festivals. What preparation, musically and mentally, do you normally go through before huge events like these? SVD: I’ve got a ritual, half an hour before the set I just get onstage and listen to the DJ playing before me to see what the musical direction is that I should go. Besides that, I don’t actually prepare my sets so every single time I get on stage I just see what happens. I think that’s the best way to play in front of a crowd (that) is completely different every single time. NGM: What new artists are you currently hooked on, in any genre of music? SVD: I would say in this day and age it’s phenomenal to see how many new young kids get into the music scene. I’ve been playing Nicky Romero’s tracks now for the last couple of years, he’s absolutely insane. Hardwell as well. They are very broad in a way as well, style-wise. That’s what I’ve kind of found as well the last couple of years, styles are colliding more and more and coming together. NGM: Tell us about your Eleve11 World Tour. SVD: It’s been going great, obviously it’s a platform for me to play a lot of my own tracks. Meanwhile, after the album, I’ve produced I think four or five new singles so I’m playing those out as well, just testing them out. NGM: Do you think technology has made it easier for anybody to essentially become a DJ? SVD: I always promote and support evolving technology. For instance, I’ve got little cousins and nephews, they’re eleven years old and they download the software… That’s something that wasn’t possible when I was eleven. These days, people can really check out if it’s something for them. Even as a hobby it’s great to do. It makes for more artists in the world so I definitely promote that. For the full unedited interview, go to www.NiteGuideMag.com 26 niteguidemag.com
“
In this day and age it’s phenomenal to see how many new young kids get into the music scene. -Sander van Doorn
”
March
Featured DJ | Producers By Heidi Darby
Above & Beyond continue on their globe trotting world tour, graciously taking time to discuss with NiteGuide the success of their Trance Around The World podcast, their critically acclaimed album Group Therapy, and how they keep communication lines open with their loyal fan base. NiteGuide Magazine: Tell us about your show Trance Around The World.
P: The live messaging thing began some years ago when we felt we wanted
Paavo: Our show’s been a weekly look at what’s going on around the world
to communicate with the crowd, but didn’t want to shout on a mic. We had
with dance music we love, since starting it over seven years ago. Being
a laptop in the booth and started writing words and small sentences on
able to offer it as a free podcast weekly has also meant that its become
it and showing those to people, and instantly found it a lot of fun and a
one of the ways we keep up with people around the world who like the
great way to add meaning to what we were all listening to at the time. As
same music too.
the laptop trick didn’t really work on bigger shows we looked for a way to keep the same “live feel.” We wanted to make it simple for us to write live
NGM: How was your 400th episode show in Beirut?
messages during the show and developed our own geeky way of doing it
P: If I had to choose one word: EPIC. We were so happy to be able to do
that’s been great, from small shows to stadiums.
it in Lebanon where we did our first live concert two years ago, and being able to send it everywhere around the world meant it was one of the biggest
NGM: And you’re coming back to the states in March, taking Group
things we did on the Internet last year too.
Therapy to Miami Music Week. Tell us about this show. P: We’re buzzing about the return to Miami as this year we’re doing our
NGM: Group Therapy was labeled by Mixmag as “The biggest artist album
biggest Group Therapy show ever, and are preparing lots of special stuff
of the year.” When you were making it, did you know you were on to
for the event. Last year’s party at the Ice Palace was so much fun, we can’t
something special?
wait for this year’s party under the stars and by the ocean.
P: It took us a few years to make Group Therapy and there were days that it felt great, sometimes we felt lost, but maybe a month before it was ready
NGM: What’s summer of 2012 have in store for A&B fans?
there was a point where it suddenly “made sense.” We felt we’d made an
P: We’re doing shows at several festivals around the world and are returning
album we can be proud of when we’re old and looking back at our lives. It’s
to Ibiza, so looks like a lot of fun will be had next summer. But it still feels
been amazing to see how many people have felt touched by it.
like it’s quite far away as we’re doing tours of South and Central America, Australia and another epic North American tour before the summer season
NGM: During your shows you do live messaging on LED screens, correct?
begins!
How did this concept come into play, and how do you think it enhances your shows?
www.aboveandbeyond.nu
Photo by Jacob Schulman/DancingAstronaut.com
P
rodigy hit-maker Avicii has a Grammy nomination under his belt, landed at #6 on DJ Mag’s Top 100 poll and continues to conquer club charts worldwide with his uplifting and infectious sound.
By Heidi Darby
Photo by Jacob Schulman/DancingAstronaut.com
T
he Swedish native commands crowds at world renowned venues including Pacha in New York, Ruby Skye in San Francisco, and Marquee in Las Vegas, but his influence doesn’t end with the club scene. With an Ultra Music Festival appearance in Miami last year, the 22 year old scored a headlining slot on this years bill, and is set to play at The Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival in Indio. After wrapping his “House of Hunger Tour” which raised $1,000,000.00 to benefit the Feeding America foundation, Avicii not only remains at the forefront of EDM, but maintains positive and proactive reputation both inside and outside of the industry. Now on a world-wide tour that’s heading to Miami, NiteGuide had the pleasure of catching up with one of EDM’s newest superstars.
NGM: Where did the inspiration for your House of Hunger Tour come from? Avicii: I’ve always been wanting to do something for charity. When my manger Ash approached me to do something for Hunger in America, a country I have been spending most of my time in, it made total sense. NGM: One million dollars is a large sum to be donating, how does it feel to be able to make this large of an impact on your cause? Avicii: I feel super fortunate to be in a position to help. I still can’t believe me and Ash have been able to scramble together one million dollars on a one month tour. It’s amazing! NGM: Do you think your tour may have effected the way EDM lovers are perceived? (reckless partying, etc.) Avicii: It’s not the main purpose of the tour but definitely something I can see happening and will happen. NGM: How did it feel to be nominated for a Grammy? Avicii: Awesome. It’s one of the biggest honors you can have as an artists/musician.
NGM: After a long night, how do you like to unwind? Avicii: Glass of red wine. NGM: What do you feel is the catalyst in the EDM takeover that’s happening in the US right now? Avicii: It’s a natural thing. Music is always advancing and changing. Every genre has its own era. NGM: Who’s an upcoming DJ we should know about? Avicii: Alesso NGM: Tell us how it feels to be so young and influencing the Electronic Dance Music scene? Avicii: Feels great... I don’t really feel my age that much. Ever since I’ve started I have never been treated like a kid. NGM: What are your plans for 2012 and goals you want to reach? Avicii: Just to keep at it and enjoy life. www.avicii.com
Photo by BSK Photo for Marquee Nightclub & Dayclub
Club Directory
Bar Directory
The Yost Theater
LOS ANGELES BeAuty Bar [Hollywood] 1638 N Cahuenga Blvd, 90028
[Santa AnA]
323-464-7676 www.myclubscene.com/beautybarla
307 N. Spurgeon Street, 92701 888-862-9573 www.myclubscene.com/yost
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
Sutra [Costa Mesa] 1807 Harbor Blvd, 92627 949-722-7103 www.myclubscene.com/sutra TEN [Newport Beach] 4647 MacArthur Blvd, 92660 949-660-1010 www.myclubscene.com/ten 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.
LOS ANGELES Every Friday [Playhouse] Dirty Sex House Fridays Every Friday [Level 3] First Class Friday’s Every Saturday [Level 3] Club DV8 18+ Every Saturday [Avalon] Avalond March 2, Friday [Exchange LA] Christopher Lawerence March 2, Friday [The W Hotel] First Fridays
tattoo parlor
Over 50 years combined experience
-Specializing in Color, Black & Grey, Tribal, Japanese, and Custom Art 1000’s of flash designs to choose from -Piercings; dermals, surface, and genital
We carry jewelry, apparel, and artwork Appointments and Walk-ins welcome
Open 7 days a week from 12-11pm
18822 Beach Blvd. Suite 113 Huntington Beach, CA, 92648 (714) 968-0658 Ellis Ave 50 % 50 % off off
March 5, Monday [Playhouse] Dave Aude & Mr. White March 7, Wednesday [Avalon] Plasmapool Night w/ Mord
tattoo
First time customer only some restrictions apply
Beach Blvd.
Ma
in
March 3, Saturday [Playhouse] Ruckus
Players club
St
March 2012 Events Listing:
World Famous!
Piercing
Garfield Ave
First time customer only some restrictions apply
www.playersclubtattoo.com
Fustang, Hypster, Joe Garston, Miles Dyson, Mark Yurn March 8, Thursday [Playhouse] Eric Dlux March 8, Thursday [Exchange LA] Purim Carnival 2012 Costume Ball March 9, Friday [Exchange LA] Insomniac Presents W&W March 9, Friday [Avalon] Angger Dimas, Cazzette, Sharooz March 9, Friday [Playhouse] Thomas Gold March 10, Saturday [Exchange LA] Cali Swag D March 10, Saturday [Avalon] Sasha, Guy Gerber March 17, Saturday [Egyptian Theater] St. Patrick’s Day Beer Festival March 17, Saturday [Avalon] Erick Morillo March 24, Saturday [Avalon] Bad Boy Bill March 31, Saturday [Exchange LA] Evelyn Lin Log on to MyClubScene.com now to see more events and get on the list! niteguidemag.com 33
March
Featured dj | Producer
L
os Angeles based DJ/Producer 12th Planet continues to play a vital role in the evolution of Dubstep. Taking his stage name from the book “12th Planet,” by Zecharia Sitchin, the enigmatic music man shared with NiteGuide how the electronic scene is evolving in LA, the force behind Dubstep’s popularity, and his thoughts on his upcoming gig at Ultra Music Festival in Miami.
By Heidi Darby
NiteGuide Magazine: Where do you feel the Dubstep movement started? 12th Planet: In the UK, somewhere in Croydon. In USA, NYC Dub War. NGM: What do you attribute its popularity to? 12th: I think social media and the internet really set it on fire. NGM: What early Jungle and Drum and Bass artists influenced you the most? 12th: I was first influenced by R.A.W. and Deacon. They were my main inspirations as a youth. Dieselboy had a major impact on me as an artist as well. The sound he was pushing was the sound I really fell in love with in the late ‘90s. NGM: Your live shows are regarded as one of the best in the industry. What’s your pre-show ritual? 12th: My pre-show ritual is drinking loads of water. NGM: What are your feelings on DJs providing a high energy show-every time? 12th: I think everything is relative. There is an absolute time and place for high energy and mellow shows. Like I wouldn’t go h.a.m. at an in-store or an opening set, you feel me? NGM: Tell us about fan interaction at one of your shows. 12th: I usually pass out free tee shirts, stickers, and CDs at my shows. I try and do autographs after every show as well. NGM: What changes has Los Angeles seen recently, in terms of electronic music? 12th: I think the biggest change in the last two or three years is the multiple genre sets. It was kind of a social faux pas to play outside your genre, but now a DJ can start his set with Dubstep, and end with Moombahton, and people don’t really bat an eye. NGM: You’re playing Ultra this year, how is the festival regarded from an industry standpoint? 12th: I love playing Ultra, it’s a major American festival, and it’s a great weekend. NGM: What are the best venues to play in Southern California right now? 12th: I love my residencies, so I gotta back Control at Avalon Hollywood, Dubtroit at The Constellation Room in Orange County, and LED presents Voyeur at San Diego. NGM: Please tell us about your affiliation with SMOG: 12th: I co-own SMOG with Drew Best and Danny Johnson. I also produce music for the label. NGM: What can fans expect from you this summer? 12th: More music, and more gigs! www.12thplanet2012.com 34 niteguidemag.com
Photo by Maria Jose Govea
March 2012 Events Listing:
ORANGE COUNTY Every Monday [Sharkeez HB] MyClubScene Mondays-CASH Prize giveaways! email vip@myclubscene.com for details Every Thursday [Yost Theater] GIANT Thursdays Every Friday [TEN] Famous Friday with Cali Connect Group Every Friday [Avec] Haute Fridays Every Friday [Shark Club] Limelight Fridays March 3, Saturday [TEN] DJ Miles March 3, Saturday [Sutra] Kevin Scott March 7, Wednesday [Yost Theater] Le Castle Vania March 8, Thursday [Sutra] Cedric Gervais March 8, Thursday [Yost Theater] Plasmapool N. American Road Trip March 9, Friday [Sutra] Peace Treaty March 9, Friday [TEN] DJ Reflex March 10, Saturday [TEN] DJ Dropset March 10, Saturday [Sutra] DJ Scooter March 14, Wednesday [Yost Theater] Brodinski March 15, Thursday [Sutra] EDX March 16, Friday [TEN] Rick Rude March 16, Friday [Sutra] DHG March 17, Saturday [TEN] Dean Mason March 21, Wednesday [Yost Theater] Adventure Club March 23, Friday [Sutra] DJ Spryte March 24, Saturday [Sutra] DJ Kevin Scott March 30, Friday [Sutra] Manufactured Superstars March 31, Saturday [Sutra] Eric Cubeechee Log on to MyClubScene.com now to see more events and get on the list! niteguidemag.com 35
Live Music Events Listing: SoCal Los Angeles
ORANGE COUNTY San Diego
March 4, Sunday [Bootleg Theatre]
March 2, Friday [The Observatory]
March 3, Saturday [The Casbah]
Jolie Holland
Imortal Technique
Zola Jesus
March 5, Monday [Silverlake Lounge]
March 3, Saturday [The Grove]
March 3, Saturday [The Casbah]
Monte Mar
Orange County Music Awards
The Stone Foxes
March 7, Wednesday [Bootleg Bar]
March 5, Monday [The Observatory]
March 9, Friday [Belly Up Tavern]
Yellow Red Sparks
Micah Brown
The Green
March 7, Wednesday [Silverlake Lounge]
March 9, Friday [The Grove]
Appetite
Flogging Molly
March 8, Thursday [The El Rey]
March 10, Saturday [The Observatory]
Saul Williams
Reverend Horton Heat/Wanda Jackson
March 8, Thursday [The Viper Room]
March 10, Saturday [Detroit Bar]
Queen Caveat
Jacques Lu Cont and Jason Bentley
March 10, Tuesday [The Hollywood Bowl]
March 11, Monday [The Observatory]
Trey Anastasio with The Los Angeles Philharmonic
The Pretty Reckless
March 13, Tuesday [The Hollywood Bowl]
March 14, Wednesday [The Observatory]
Willie Nelson and Family
Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros
March 14, Wednesday [Long Beach Ter-
March 14, Wednesday [The Coach House]
race Theatre] Peter Frampton
The Young Dubliners
March 14, Wednesday [The Music Box]
March 17, Saturday [The Grove]
Cults
The Joy Formidable
The Fenians
March 21, Wednesday [Soma]
March 19, Monday [The El Rey]
March 18, Sunday [The Observatory]
We Came As Romans
The Temper Trap
The Game
March 21, Wednesday [The Casbah]
March 20, Tuesday [The Music Box]
March 19, Monday [The Observatory]
Lumineers
Nada Surf
The Naked & Famous
March 22, Thursday [4th & B]
March 21, Wednesday [The Music Box]
March 23, Friday [The Observatory]
Soulfly
Lucero
Orgy
March 28, Wednesday [Belly Up Tavern]
March 22, Thursday [The Music Box]
March 23, Friday [The Observatory]
Galactic
Cults
Saint Motel
March 23, Friday [The Bootleg]
March 30, Friday [The Observatory]
Amy Ray (Indigo Girls) and Her Band
Kottonmouth Kings
March 10, Saturday [Soma] Asking Alexandria March 14, Wednesday [Belly Up Tavern] Drive By Truckers March 16 & 17 [Belly Up Tavern] The English Beat
36 niteguidemag.com
March 18, Sunday [Belly Up Tavern] Sage Francis March 20, Tuesday [Belly Up Tavern] Lucero March 20, Tuesday [Belly Up Tavern]
March 30, Friday [4th & B] Bone Thugs-N-Harmony
March 2012 Events Listing:
SAN DIEGO Every Thursday [207 Hard Rock] Mynt Thursdays Every Thursday [Fluxx] EDM Every Thursday [On Broadway] 18+ Thursdays Every Friday [207 & Float Hard Rock] Friday Night Fix
custom
FACEBOOK fan page
March 3, Saturday [Voyeur] A-Trak March 7, Wednesday [Voyeur] Hyper Crush March 8, Thursday [Fluxx] EDM w/ EDX March 8, Thursday [Voyeur] Thomas Gold March 9, Friday [Voyeur] Sasha March 9, Friday [Fluxx] DJ Brett Bodley March 10, Saturday [Fluxx] DJ Cobra March 10, Saturday [207 Hard Rock] Audio Playhouse Vol. 34 w/ Jayson Summers & Schoeny March 11, Sunday [Voyeur] Breakage March 15, Thursday [Fluxx] EDM 2 Year Anniversary w/ Erick Morillo March 16, Friday [4th & B] Bostich+Fussible March 16, Friday [Fluxx] Ross One March 17, Saturday [4th & B] San Diego Latino Film Festival - Closing Night Party March 18, Sunday [Fluxx] EDM 2 Year Anniversary w/ Sidney Samson
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March 19, Monday [Fluxx] Industry Night: DJ Scooter and surprise live performance March 22, Thursday [Voyeur] Vitalic March 23, Friday [4th & B] Epic Fighting 11 March 23, Friday [Fluxx] EDM w/ Brett Bodley &
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Ricky Rocks March 29, Thursday [Voyeur] Jack Beats March 29, Thursday [Fluxx] Benny Benassi Log on to MyClubScene.com now to see more events and get on the list!
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Carissa Rosario MYCLUBSCENE.com March 2012 VIXEN www.carissarosario.com Follow on twitter @carissarosario Photo by Nick Sagliembeni
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DJ COLETTE
March
Featured DJ
By Drew Leahy
V
eteran songwriter DJ Colette sat down with NiteGuide to discuss her longevity and success as a female artist in a male-driven industry, and offered insight on the evolution of her career since the rise of the Internet and the inception of social media.
fans. “It opens a straight line of communication. Before, unless you had a message board, you couldn’t really connect with people.” The downside of social media “Hearing negative feedback,” says Colette with a laugh, but she assures that this keeps her balanced.
Beginning with the release of her debut single “Moments of Epiphany” in 1995, Colette’s fusion of vocals and house beats and original tracks continue to scintillate with house enthusiasts across the globe. Colette attributes her longevity to passion, dedication, and a synergy between herself and those she works closest with on her music. “I’ve always maintained very good relationships with everyone I write with, so we’ve actually grown together,” Colette said.
With the recent controversy surrounding file-sharing websites, ambivalence envelops Colette in regards to the range of the Internet and how it shares music. “Spending two dollars for a tune is a bargain, and I want to support the artist as well,” Colette says, “but in some countries, music is inaccessible and people depend on file-sharing . . . I would rather them have the music than not have it at all.” Colette feels that though file-sharing sites can lead to Internet piracy, they also can put music in the hands of the less fortunate. For her, the easy solution for building her music library is websites like Beatport that make purchasing individual mp3’s more convenient and less expensive than buying a four-track vinyl for one song. Look for Colette’s new album this summer on Om Records and follow her achievements as she endeavors to build her own record label, Candy Talk.
As a female in an industry heavy with male artists, Colette’s success comes with its misanthropes. “It’s challenging in a sense that people try to put you in a box and make assumptions based on your gender,” the Chicago native says of her experiences as a female DJ. Since her inauguration as a professional DJ almost seventeen years ago, Colette asserts that the female community of DJs endures. “It is still smaller, but it’s very strong and talented, and it’s getting bigger all the time.” Before the birth of social media, Colette relied on mixtapes and flyering record shops to reach her fans. The Internet, now abound with social networking sites, allows for a more intimate channel of communication between her and her followers and changes the way she interacts with her 40 niteguidemag.com
www.djcolette.com www.facebook.com/djcolette www.twitter.com/djcolette
February IN REVIEW: FEATURED EVENTS Markus Schulz Avalon [Hollywood]
Story & Photos by By Adrian Matthew Perez | MyClubScene.com On February 18, 2012, Markus Schulz made his way back to Los Angeles for a performance at Avalon, located on Hollywood and Vine. He was met with thousands of anxious fans, who were awaiting a night full of energy and transcendent music. The minute the doors opened fans began to pour into the nightclub. To many fans amazement, Schulz was already on stage ready to drop his first track. When the music hit the dance floor from the massive club system, the floor ignited. Schulz started the night with some ambient progressive trance and as the night continued, the energy, along with the crowd, grew significantly. By midnight the club was at capacity. Schulz played several tracks from his long list of albums that he has produced and mastered, including “Markus Schulz presents Dakota-Thoughts Become Things” and “Do you dream?” Experiencing his live performance concretes why this German born, Miami resident is one of the top producer/DJs in the world. The morning rolled in and his performance came to a close. Anyone who was there and experienced Schulz won’t forget that night anytime soon, as it was a performance to go down in Avalon’s History.
Gabriel & Dresden Fluxx [San Diego]
By Allie Imai | Photos Courtesy of MyClubScene.com | Brian Hmurovich On February 16, the multi award-winning duo of Gabriel & Dresden took over FLUXX in San Diego for the venue’s noted “EDM Thursdays” weekly event. After a three-year hiatus from producing together, Dave Dresden and Josh Gabriel reunited just one year ago and have been on an unstoppable tour of endless gigs ever since, something that their long-time fans definitely aren’t complaining about. The legendary pair has turned out classic hits and remixes since they first came together in 2001, and based upon the massive response to their reunion, it’s obvious that they are back with a collaborative synergy stronger than ever before. Just shy of its second year in operation, San Diego’s FLUXX nightclub has booked a variety of A-list electronic music talent worthy of boasting about, and Gabriel & Dresden are no exception.
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MyClubScene Mondays Sharkeez [Huntington Beach]
Story by Fred Dyoll Photography by MyClubScene.com | Christina Montaldo MyClubScene.com is taking over Monday nights at Sharkeez in Huntington Beach. On February 20, the interactive website launched the series with two of the hottest Go-Go’s in Orange County guest bartending. Dania Estrada and Elyse Jordan mixed up strong drinks for the crowd, and they didn’t forget to bust a few moves in-between pours. DJ Peter G. was on the turn tables mixing a variety of hits and announcing the money scavenger hunt, as everyone celebrated President’s Day. Party-goers searched the venue high and low under tables and chairs for the winning one hundred dollar bills. Prize giveaways included Mt. High lift tickets, K1 Racing gift cards, dinner for two at Sharkeez and a one year subscription for NiteGuide Magazine. MyClubScene.com will host the event featuring “EDM Night” the last Monday of the month. Over $100 in prizes will be given away every week and anyone celebrating their birthday should email vip@myclubscene.com as MyClubScene will buy you a bottle and platter for you and your friends! See the video from this event at www.MyClubScene.com.
Excision Valentine’s Day Bash The Yost Theater [Santa Ana]
By Allison Imai | Photos Courtesy of MyClubScene.com | Christina Montaldo When you think of Valentine’s Day, the word “dubstep” usually isn’t the first word that comes to mind. However, this year’s holiday proved otherwise at Santa Ana’s Yost Theater, which was packed wall-to-wall for a special performance by Excision as he made his way across the US for his “X Tour.” Canadian-born producer Jeff Abel has only been in the scene for a few years, but has collaborated with the likes of Downlink, Datsik, and Pendulum, and recently released his first album on fellow producer Deadmau5’s record label. Excision’s distinct sound takes influence from drum and bass, hip hop, and heavy metal, morphing all three into a unique blend of aggressive dubstep that sets him apart from his peers within the genre. Preceding Excision’s opening, the dance floor at The Yost was lit by a sea of cell phone cameras awaiting to record the very first sound. The stage suddenly came to life, the DJ booth lit by one massive red “X” on each side and a murmur of bass so deep that it shook the walls. Excision brought something different to Orange County music enthusiasts in a very loud, hard-hitting way, and definitely set the bar for future Valentine’s Day dates to come.
See more photos from these events and others at www.MyClubScene.com
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Photography by MyClubScene.com | Brain Brown, Brian Hmurovich, Christina Montaldo, Dave Orell, Martin Clara
A
fter two years of covering the best in food, fashion, music, and nightlife, NiteGuide spent the last weekend in February celebrating their second anniversary throughout
Southern California. On Thursday, February 23, the NiteGuide crew gathered for an amazing night at Playhouse in Hollywood. Rolling up to the venue, a feeling of exclusivity was emanated from the popular club, which is discreetly tucked away on Hollywood Boulevard. Once past the velvet ropes, the red carpet filled with fans of the magazine, NiteGuide models, and staff members. Inside, the club bustled with go-go dancers and the sounds of DJ Ross One, where all of the partygoers quickly filled the dance floor. By the end of the night, there were people dancing on the back of the VIP booths and raising their glasses on the packed dance floor. The party continued on Friday, February 24, at TEN nightclub in Newport Beach. With the club’s amazing LED light treatment
EAT - DRINK - PARTY
and great bar staff, the night was set up for success. DJ Erra (a lawyer by day and one of Orange County’s best new DJ’s by Lyndsay Haldorson
Reclaiming Classic Nightlife
page 16
night) played a great set that kept energy high and bodies moving on the dance floor. Go-go dancers ignited sparklers throughout
THE NIgHTLIFE ISSUE JANUARy 2012: ISSUE 25
Nightlife Revealed
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
FROm THE pEOpLE THAT mAkE IT HAppEN
the club, and the NiteGuide models were on the scene once again reassuring that everyone had a great time. Heading further south on the anniversary tour, NiteGuide took a party bus down to San Diego for a great night at Float at The Hard Rock Hotel in San Diego. Voted the best rooftop bar in San Diego, Float provided a great view of the city and a pleasant breeze from the ocean air. DJ DainjaZone rocked the decks and created a great vibe for the evening. The red carpet had a line wrapped around the venue as NiteGuide fans posed with their friends to get their photo taken. The venue had a great energy to it as everyone gathered around the fire places dancing, cheering and reading their favorite nightlife magazine. The three-day celebration was an epic marathon, lead by the magazine’s loyal readers and dedicated staff. With two years of print journalism under their belts, NiteGuide continues to grow and expand, bringing readers both established and up and coming music talent, off-the-beaten-path restaurants, and the best in event coverage.
Los Angeles
Photo REcaP
Photos Courtesy of Brandon Peters & Erik Voake
Playhouse Hollywood
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San Diego
Photo REcaP DJ Chuckie | Wintervention
Photos Courtesy MyClubScene.com of Brian Hmurovich
Hard Rock | San Diego
Stingaree
Photos Courtesy MyClubScene.com of J.Dixx Photography
San Diego
Text PARTY to 67777 for info on each weeks top events 48 niteguidemag.com
Las Vegas
Photo REcaP
Fancy Sauce Party Moon Nightclub | palms Las Vegas
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Photos Courtesy of 9Group Las Vegas
Text PARTYTIME to 67777 for info on each weeks top events
MOON Palms | Las Vegas
Photos Courtesy of 9Group Las Vegas
Text PARTYTIME to 67777 for info on each weeks top events
niteguidemag.com 51
San FranCisco
Photo REcaP
GranD Nightclub San Francisco
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Photos Courtesy MyClubScene.com of Kevin Sam
“How to Know if She is Interested”
O
ne of the biggest differences between how men and women meet and date is how they show their interest. Men are very straight-forward, but women tend to be more subtle and guys often mistake friendliness with flirting. Some guys misunderstand; they think that just because a woman smiles at them, she is interested. Sorry guys, this isn’t always the case. I speak at various engagements at colleges and universities, and I stay after class to talk to students if they have questions. Because I am friendly and because the subject matter of relationships and sex is so personal, I have had people misread my friendliness and helpfulness as flirting or as me being interested in them. Women have to be careful to avoid leading men on, because sometimes men make more out of a friendly conversation than it really is. However, when a woman is genuinely interested, there will be some tell-tale signs.
If a woman is attracted to you she will: 1. Smile at you a lot – she won’t be distracted or annoyed, she will be happy to talk to you. 2. Talk to you – she won’t walk away, she’ll stay and chat. 3. Make eye contact – she won’t be looking past you as though she is checking the place for other guys or looking around for her friends, she will focus on you. 4. Laugh when talking to you – if you tell a joke, she will laugh, or she will laugh in general. 5. Ask you questions about yourself – she will be interested in learning more about you: what do you do for a living, where do you live/go to school, etc. 6. Touch your arm or hand – when a woman is interested, she will make physical contact by touching your arm or hand, usually when gesturing during a conversation or maybe to emphasize a point. 7. Lean towards you – during a conversation, body language is key. Is she leaning in and listening, or is she sitting back, not really paying attention? 8. Make a reference to the future – If she says something like “we should do that sometime” or “hopefully I’ll see you there,” then she is interested in seeing you again. 9. Give you a compliment – if she says something complimentary, like about what you are wearing or your smile, it’s a good sign. 10. Give you her card, email or phone number – this one is a no brainer, if she gives you her number then she has just put the ball in your court and she wants you to call her. If you don’t see these signs then it is safe to move on, and don’t waste time wondering, “Was she interested in me?” You’ll know the signs when you see them.
Reasons MyClubScene.com why you should be a member on
By Allie Imai
1
WEEKEND RECAP
See photo galleries from events nationwide, and piece together what happened from the night before with your friends.
2
SOCIALIZE Whether you are a club owner, bartender, promoter, DJ, or just like to party, build a member profile and start making new friends. Add photo galleries of your own and share with others what you have planned for the weekend!
5
EVENT LISTINGS Whatever your music tastes may be, search by region for the most current event listings in your area! Get on the free guest lists and plan where to party this weekend ahead of time.
6 3 7
SATISFY YOUR INNER FAN See exclusive MyClubScene TV interviews with your favorite artists such as Sander van Doorn, Steve Aoki, Young the Giant and many more!
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NIGHTLIFE KNOWLEDGE
Traveling somewhere and want to get info for the top nightclubs in that area? Do your research with the extensive bar and club directory categorized by region.
VIXENS
Each month, an aspiring model is featured in NiteGuide Magazine as a MyClubScene Vixen. Check out photo galleries from every photo shoot and learn more about each lovely lady!
GIVEAWAYS Who doesn’t want free stuff? ‘Like’ MyClubScene on Facebook and follow them on Twitter to win tickets to the hottest events at clubs in your area!
New York
Photo REcaP
Photos Courtesy of MyClubScene.com I Josh Raab
Paul Van Dyke Pacha New York
Text PARTYTIME to 67777 for info on each weeks top events
HOROSCOPE
better for you in the long run- and it will make you look good
Pisces February 20- March 20
report and fix it up!
By Kristin Halberg
Happy Bir thday Pisces!
as well! Your job situation might help to alleviate that old debt that has been put on the back burner too. Print out that credit
Love: This is the year to make amends, especially if it has been gnawing at you for a while now. Since you’re in a simplify mood, that extra peace will help smooth some rough waters with some of your relationships that haven’t been too great lately. Single? It
2012 marks a very peaceful year for you. Since you are already
might be time for some romance! Paired up? You will find the
known for being a compassionate, flexible type of person, tak-
joy you have been so dedicated to looking for. November might
ing stress and complexity out of your life is something you excel
be a good month to let your loved ones know how you feel. That
at. Even if the drama begins to surround you, somehow you can
simplistic peace that falls over you might be looked at as apa-
tune it out and press on. This year, you won’t have to do much
thy. Enjoy your family!
of that, as the key word of 2012 for you is simplify! Taking out the extra baggage this year will only add to the positive energy around you. Career: Keeping in mind that it’s time to simplify, now is not the time to start up your small business idea. Plug along with your current job, or find that job that will be comfortable. Your work could require some travel this year, so make sure your luggage is ready to go! Keeping things calm around you will only make things 56 niteguidemag.com
Lucky Days: 4, 16, 21