memorial day weekend EVENTS Inside The Party ISSUE May 2011: Issue 17
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
Page 36
Table Of Contents YOUR SCENE - YOUR NIT E - YOUR GUIDE
4 The List 6 May DVD’s, Movies & CD’s 8 What’s Hot For May 10 Featured Website 12 Kitty’s Guide 13 MyClubScene.com Vixen 14 Industry Movers & Shakers 16 Nitelife Around the World 18 Featured Venue 20 Featured Restaurant 22 Featured Food 26 Featured Drinks 28 Ask A Bartender 30 Featured Alcohol 32 Memorial Day Guide 34 Pool Party Guide 38 Electronic Dancenary 40 Bar / Club Directory 42 Happy Hour Guide 44 May Events Listing 48 The Buzz on Music
MyClubScene.com May 2011 Vixen Erika Sanchez
50 Electronic Scene 52 April in Review: Featured Events 58 Horoscope 60 Photo Recaps
All rights reserved @ 2011, the entire contents of this publication are protected by copy right. No part of this publication may 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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Photos Courtesy of Mikey McNulty/9Group
Rain Nightclub Palms | LAS VEGAS
niteguidemag.com 3
THE LIST THE PUBLISHER We are very excited to expand to the San Diego market and bring together the entire Southern Californian market. Now you can pick up the same issue of NiteGuide each month in LA, OC or SD. Summer is almost here and it’s finally starting to get warm. We want to make sure we show you where the best spots are to shop, eat, drink and party. You will start to see more food and restaurants featured in upcoming issues. We want to make sure we turn you onto the top spots to relax and enjoy a good meal before heading out. This issue is dedicated to the party scene. Make sure you check out the top Memorial Day Weekend events and where the best Vegas pools are so you can party your ass off. When going out this Memorial Day Weekend, make sure to hit up one of the top events listed in this months issue. Your best bet is to buy tickets online for large events, especially in Vegas. You can always visit our website and we will steer you in the right direction. Be safe and have fun, we will do our best to capture all of the chaos and madness. Justin Stearman Publisher
CONTRIBUTORS Emmanuel Cayanan is new to the NiteGuide team but has always been a writer. In each issue, he takes readers on an adventure through our “NiteLife Around the World” column. Building off of a well-received travel blog that chronicles his experience studying abroad in Florence, Italy, Emmanuel jumped at the opportunity to explore his passion for travel writing through his role at NiteGuide. A Cal State Fullerton graduate, Emmanuel currently works for a health care marketing communications firm and has coordinated public relations initiatives for several charitable causes. By night, he covers the OC party scene and particularly enjoys writing features on nightlife industry personalities. Emmanuel will celebrate his 25th birthday this month and the occasion will be detailed in his blog, www.EmanAboutTown.com set for an early June launch. NiteGuide would like to thank Emmanuel for all his hard work and dedication and wish him a very Happy Birthday! 4 niteguidemag.com
THE CREATIVE DIRECTOR Issue number 17: With summer right around the corner and Memorial Day Weekend in a few weeks, we at NiteGuide decided to do the research and put together The Ultimate Party Issue. The Party Issue will inform you on the top parties you must experience this summer. Wether it’s a pool party, pub crawl or birthday, NiteGuide has selected our top picks to steer you in the right direction for a guaranteed good time. We have also arranged a list of scrumptious dishes and drinks that will diminish your hangover and help you carry on to your next adventure. If you are not into clubs, bars and crazy pool parties, the Food Guide will still interest you even spending an intimate evening at The Magic Castle, a party with magicians you will never forget! This is your guide to any night your little heart desires. Have fun, be safe and don’t drink and drive!
Nicole Lloyd Director of Operations
CREDITS Publisher Justin Stearman Justin@NiteGuideMag.com Director of Operations Nicole Lloyd Nicole@NiteGuideMag.com Account Executive Justin Stearman Layout Artist Nicole Lloyd Tommy Lafleur Graphic Designer Tommy Lafleur Photographers Brian Brown Charles Street Christopher Bormann Daniel Yoshinari Dave Orell Felipe Gamboa John Nguyen Matthew Copley Patrick Strube RG Benhard Robert Rodriguez Shannon Nehls Theresa Lomavaya Senior Editor Heidi Darby Editors Adéllyn Polomski Alysia Batchelder Carlin Nguyen Christian Williams Daniel Allan Doug Hac Emmanuel Cayanan Enoch Loi John Helmrich Jonathan Fossler Kam Kasmaei Kimberly Fisher Kristin Halberg Rachel Salas Rebecca Schweitzer Interns Becca McConvey Guillermo Luna Nicole Grambo Videographer Daniel Allan Contact info@NiteGuideMag.com For Advertising info email: advertise@niteguidemag.com
www.NiteGuideMag.com
NiteGuide’s Official San Diego Launch Party
movies COMING OUT IN May By Daniel Allan THOR Release Date: May 6 Director: Kenneth Branagh [Sleuth, Henry V] Cast: Chris Hemsworth, Anthony Hopkins and Natalie Portman This epic adventure spans the Marvel Universe from present day Earth to the realm of Asgard. At the center of the story is The Mighty Thor [Hemsworth - Star Trek], a powerful but arrogant warrior whose reckless actions reignite an ancient war. Thor is cast down to Earth and forced to live among humans as punishment. Once here, Thor learns what it takes to be a true hero when the most dangerous villain of his world sends the darkest forces of Asgard to invade Earth. NITEGUIDE NOTE: Whose Hammer-Time is Sexier? A Chiseled Captain Kirk or MC Hammer’s Parachute Pants!
BRIDESMAIDS Release Date: May 13 Director: Paul Feig [Freaks and Geeks] Cast: Kristen Wiig, Maya Rudolph and Rose Byrne Annie [Wiig - SNL] is a maid of honor whose life unravels as she leads her best friend, Lillian [Rudolph - SNL], and a group of colorful bridesmaids on a wild ride down the road to matrimony. Annie’s life is a mess. But when she finds out her lifetime best friend is engaged, she simply must serve as Lillian’s maid of honor. Though lovelorn and broke, Annie bluffs her way through the expensive and bizarre rituals. With one chance to get it perfect, she’ll show Lillian and her bridesmaids just how far you’ll go for someone you love. Produced by Judd Apatow [Knocked Up, Superbad]. NITEGUIDE NOTE: Save The Date For Some Good Laughs!
PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: ON STRANGER TIDES Release Date: May 20 Director: Rob Marshall [Memoirs of a Geisha, Chicago] Cast: Johnny Depp, Penelope Cruz, Ian McShane and Geoffrey Rush Johnny Depp returns to his iconic role of Captain Jack Sparrow in the fourth installment of the Disney blockbuster series - this time in 3D. Crossing paths with the enigmatic Angelica [Cruz - Blow], he’s not sure if it’s love or if she’s a ruthless con artist who’s using him to find the fabled Fountain of Youth. When she forces him aboard the “Queen Anne’s Revenge,” the ship of the legendary pirate Blackbeard [McShane - Sexy Beast], Jack finds himself on an unexpected adventure in which he doesn’t know whom to fear more: Blackbeard or Angelica. NITEGUIDE NOTE: Cut The Fat [Bloom/Knightley], Sprinkle On Some Mermaids And Add Penelope Cruz On Top! Bon Appetit!
THE HANGOVER PART II Release Date: May 26 Director: Todd Phillips [Due Date, Old School] Cast: Bradley Cooper, Ed Helms and Zach Galifianakis The wolf pack is back! Phil [Cooper - Limitless], Stu [Helms - The Office], Alan [Galifianakis - Due Date] and Doug [Bartha - The Hangover] travel to exotic Thailand for Stu’s wedding. After the unforgettable bachelor party in Las Vegas, Stu is taking no chances and has opted for a safe, subdued pre-wedding brunch. However, things don’t always go as planned. What happens in Vegas may stay in Vegas, but what happens in Bangkok can’t even be imagined. Jeffrey Tambor, Ken Jeong and Mike Tyson also rejoin the cast. “The Hangover Part II” is a follow-up to 2009’s smash hit “The Hangover,” which became the highest-grossing R-rated comedy of all-time and also won the Golden Globe for Best Film - Comedy or Musical. NITEGUIDE NOTE: There’s A Good Chance This Hangover Will Have A “Happy Ending!”
THE TREE OF LIFE Release Date: May 27 Director: Terrence Malick [The Thin Red Line] Cast: Reese Sean Penn, Brad Pitt and Jessica Chastain The Tree of Life is the impressionistic story of a Midwestern family in the 1950’s. The film follows the life journey of the eldest son, Jack [Penn - Dead Man Walking], through the innocence of childhood to his disillusioned adult years as he tries to reconcile a complicated relationship with his father [Pitt - Fight Club]. Jack finds himself a lost soul in the modern world, seeking answers to the origins and meaning of life while questioning the existence of faith. Through Malick’s signature imagery, we see how both brute nature and spiritual grace shape not only our lives as individuals and families, but all life.
NITEGUIDE NOTE: If BBC and Discovery’s “Planet Earth” Included Humans!
For more movie releases & trailers, Log on to www.trailers.apple.com 6 niteguidemag.com
dvds COMING OUT IN May
May 31
By Daniel Allan
- AMERICAN GRAFFITI (Special Edition) (Comedy) - DRIVE ANGRY 3D (Action)
May 3
- STANLEY KUBRIK: LIMITED EDITION COLLECTION (Various)
- THE DILEMMA (Comedy) - FROM PRADA TO NADA (Comedy) - THE GREEN HORNET (Adventure) - WAITING FOR FOREVER (Romance)
May 10
- BLUE VALENTINE (Romance) - COUGARS, INC. (Comedy) - NO STRINGS ATTACHED (Romance)
May 13
- JUSTIN BIEBER: NEVER SAY NEVER (Music)
May 17
- ELEPHANT WHITE (Action) - THE MECHANIC (Action) - THE ROOMMATE (Thriller)
May 24
- THE BIG BANG (Crime) - BURNING PALMS (Comedy) - GNOMEO & JULIET (Animation) - THE GREAT DICTATOR (The Criterion Collection) (Comedy) - I AM NUMBER FOUR (Sci-Fi) - PASSION PLAY (Drama) - SOLARIS (The Criterion Collection) (Sci-Fi) For more DVD releases, Log on to www.comingsoon.net
CDS COMING OUT IN May By Daniel Allan
May 24
May 3 BEASTIE BOYS – Hot Sauce Committee Part 2 COLBIE CAILLAT – All Of You DREDG – Chuckles And Mr. Squeezy FLEET FOXES – Helplessness Blues STEVIE NICKS – In Your Dreams GRUFF RHYS – Hotel Shampoo
May 9
ART BRUT – Brilliant! Tragic! FIREWORKS – Gospel FRIENDLY FIRES – Pala JOHANNA & THE DUSTY FLOOR – Northern Lights
May 31 DEATH CAB FOR CUTIE – Codes And Keys MY MORNING JACKET – Circuital EDDIE VEDDER – Ukulele Songs
RADIOHEAD – The King Of Limbs
May 10 MATTHEW MORRISON [GLEE] – Matthew Morrison OKKERVIL RIVER – I Am Very Far THIS WILL DESTROY YOU – Tunnel Blanket THE CARS – Move Like This WARREN HAYNES – Man In Motion
May 17 COMPANY OF THEIVES – Running From a Gamble RUTH GERSON – Deceived LIL WAYNE – The Carter IV MOBY – Destroyed
To find more CD releases, Log onto www.metacritic.com niteguidemag.com 7
M ay
Fr esh Ideas By Kimberly Fisher
Party Hearty: You can’t have a party without the necessary summer ingredients. Some great investments for your beach party are colorful beach towels, beach bags, umbrellas, and coolers. Find everything you need for summertime fun at: www.beachmall.com
The eco-friendly party: Memorial Day is just around the corner, make your bash
Be the life of the party:
eco-friendly with a little help from GreenPartyGoods.com.
New this month: All natural energy drinks from Jamba
From eco-friendly cupcake stands, sugarcane plates and
Juice. Made with four main all-natural ingredients and
biodegradable utensils, they make sure your summer
just 90 calories. Try Crisp Apple, Strawberry-Banana
party won’t leave a huge impact on the environment.
and Blueberry Pomegranate. www.jambajuice.com/jamba-at-home/energy-drinks
Don’t be Tardy for the Party: Keep perfect time with summer watches from ToyWatch USA. These bright, bold time keepers will keep you updated in sweet colors like pink, teal and lime green. Shop now at ToyWatchUSA.com.
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Photo
ta
e Zapa
r & Gab
n Taylo s by Be
FEATURED WEBSITE myclubscene.com By Heidi Darby
Scan barcode to watch a video
MyClubScene.com has exploded into the go-to site for Southern California nightlife! With over 25,000 members and growing, the website continues to gain momentum and expand nation-wide. The website was founded on the belief that club goers should have the ability to find all their nightlife needs in one place. MyClubScene lets you build your own free profile and see what others are up to. You can get on the free guestlist to most clubs, see photos from top events, check out club and bar profiles, view upcoming events, watch videos, book bottle service, buy tickets to the top parties, view the MyClubScene Vixen model photoshoots and more! MCS also offers discounted party buses and limos, which include free entrance to most events. You will start to see more MCS branded events coming up in the near future at So Cal venues. The owner of MyClubScene.com looks forward to expanding across the country and partnering with the top events in the nation, eventually entering the European market. “I made MCS because I knew there was a need for a site that has it all in one place. It’s great to have
The goal for MCS is to be the first place people turn to for anything nightlife related.
one site where you can see upcoming event
With an online TV show coming soon, the
2.0 version of the site that keeps users en-
flyers, photos from last weeks top events, get
site is utilizing all facets of the media, in-
gaged with a fresh new look and cell phone
on the free guestlist and interact with other
cluding working closely with NiteGuide
interaction.
club goers”, says owner
Magazine. Preceding the online show, ‘The
of MyClubScene.com.
MyClubScene Minute’ will provide a quick
Everyone needs a night out and MyClub-
YouTube video that showcases
Scene.com is engineered to make it an
the top event flyers for the week-
enjoyable one. Whether you’re planning a
end, along with photos from the
bachelor or birthday party, MCS points you
last week’s top events.
in the right direction and helps you create the perfect party night. Gearing up for the introtop
duction of a blogging section and integration
50,000 websites in America was a huge
into Facebook, MyClubScene furthers their
“We are excited to launch our online store,
milestone for the Orange County based
networking reach and their evolution into the
radio player, apparel line and cell phone
in-
company, who looks forward to planning
ultimate brand in nightlife. Log onto MyClub-
teraction this year. You will see a new look and
major events at venues such as the Hard
Scene.com now to make your free profile
feel to version 2.0 when it launches. We want
Rock Hotel and Playboy Mansion this Sum-
and stay connected.
MyClubScene to cater to all of your nightlife
mer. Further expansion in the company has
needs”
led to MyClubScene merchandise, and a
Becoming
. 10 niteguidemag.com
one
of
the
Kitty’s Guide:
To Meeting and Mating in the Real World
“What Men Wish Women Knew About Dating” The world is full of men and women, singles and couples, who do not understand each other. And this often leads to misunderstandings, which lead to arguments, which lead to the breakdown of a relationship. So here are just a few of the things that men wish women knew about them. 1. Don’t be afraid to make the first move. Men have been burdened with the societal norm that they should be the ones to make the first move. If I am interested in someone, I will ask them out. You cannot complain that no one asks you out if you are not willing to make the first move. Take your dating life into your own hands. Plus, most men find confidence to be very sexy. 2. Project confidence and self-esteem. Be comfortable with who you are. Selfesteem is very attractive. Complaining and self degradation are not. And dress in a way that makes you feel good no matter what your body style. If you step up your game and are confident, he knows that he has to step up his game to keep you. If you don’t respect yourself, he won’t either. 3. Men don’t see the little flaws that we see on our bodies, so stop focusing on them. I was talking to a guy who I had sex with on a few occasions. I mentioned my surgery scars. He actually looked at me and said, “What scars?” I was dumbfounded for a moment, then realized that he didn’t see them, I was so self-conscious about them, that I saw them as much worse than they actually are. 4. Ask for what you want. Don’t make men guess. Subtle hints don’t work! Strong hints don’t work! Obvious hints do not work! Just say it! Men and women have different communication styles. Women tend to be more subtle about what they want and hint at it rather than just saying it. You have to tell a guy exactly what you want in order for him to understand it. You cannot get frustrated with him when he doesn’t understand what you are implying. And don’t be afraid to ask for what you want. If you don’t, you won’t be happy and your relationship will suffer. 5. If a guy asks you what is wrong and you say “nothing,” he has to assume that nothing is wrong. If something is wrong, tell him. Don’t play the “You have to figure out what’s wrong” game. Men don’t know the rules of the game and they never win. 6. Looking at other women is not the same as not wanting to be with you. Okay, now if he’s staring to the point that he forgets that you are there, that’s a problem. Most of the time, looking at other women is normal. Just because you are in a relationship with someone doesn’t mean you no longer are attracted to anyone else. Plus, most of the time it isn’t even about her appearance. He’s just looking at people walking by. He looks at other men too, you just don’t notice it because you are not threatened by it. 7. Lastly, tell him what you want in bed. Most men are clueless about the female body until someone really tells them what they like. And every woman likes different things. You didn’t come with a manual. He does not know instinctively what will get you off. I am constantly amazed when men come into my store and when I ask them what their girlfriend/wife likes, they don’t know. Take the initiative when it comes to having sex. A little initiative will go a long way with him. Remember, men are simpler than you think. Men like sex, men want sex, men need sex. By taking the lead you are showing that you are interested in him. Men need to feel sexy and wanted, too. For more dating and relationship advice, go to www.niteguidemag.com or email your dating and relationship questions to kittysguide@gmail.com. Alysia Batchelder is the owner of Pink Kitty in Irvine, CA & is a sex expert and educator. www.pinkkittystore.com
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Erika Sanchez MYCLUBSCENE.com May 2011 VIXEN Photo by Amanda Gift Snaps Studio www.snaps.pro
To see more photos of Erika Snachez log onto MyClubScene.com
INDUSTRY MOVERS & SHAKERS Featured GoGo
Larissa, or “Lari” (pronounced like “Larry”) to her
feel. I like dancing to house music...I just can’t
friends, is NiteGuide Magazine’s May featured
help but want to move my body to the beat.”
By Enoch Loi
go-go dancer. Born in Japan, and raised in the
Photo by doughac.com
Lila Larissa
Bay Area, Lari now calls Hollywood home. Lari
Just like anyone else, Lari likes to hang out with
has danced professionally for the last few years,
friends, enjoy good company and listen
and currently has residency as a dancer at Ex-
to good music. When she isn’t dancing, Lari
change in Downtown Los Angeles on Fridays
likes to stay on the move and keeps herself
and the ECCO in Hollywood on Saturdays. Lari’s
busy by working or running errands. She also
love for dancing developed when she began go-
enjoys spending beautiful, sunny days outdoors
ing out to clubs and raves in high school. After
swimming or hiking. “It’s funny because I work
seeing go-go dancers in L.A., Lari thought it
till 2 or 3am on weekends, but I am a morn-
was cool that people got to be on stage, dance,
ing person...I love waking up early and getting
and make money. Being the go-getter that she
things done.” When she finally takes some time
is, Lari went out to auditions, met promoters,
to relax, Lari enjoys getting foot massages at
networked her way up, and soon enough she
the spa, and eating delicious food at places like
was dancing on-stage too.
Palm’s Thai in Hollywood.
Besides dancing at clubs, Lari also dances for
“I am very thankful that I get to do something
Insomniac parties where she gets to perform in
I love and get paid for it, and all the wonderful
front of thousands of electronic music fans at
people I got to meet that give me those oppor-
huge events like Electric Daisy Carnival, Noctur-
tunities. I know it sounds cliche, but if you put
nal Wonderland, Beyond Wonderland,and Au-
your heart to it you can almost do anything.”
diotistic. The freedom and creativity that go-go dancing allows is perfect for Lari, “I really enjoy
If you have the chance, head over to Exchange
dancing, it’s a way of expressing yourself and
or the ECCO and see Lari move in person.
your individuality”, she says, “I just dance how I
Featured DJ
events. Two weeks into the job I realized this
NGM: Where can we find and listen to your
was something I truly enjoyed and wanted
work?
By Christian Williams
to pursue further. So I decided to start my
DP: I post monthly mixes that can be down-
own DJ company, called The People’s DJ.
loaded for free, flyers for upcoming shows,
DJ Drew Pierce
For the last 13 years, DJ Drew Pierce has been tearing up every type of event with his exciting and unique style. He has DJ’d events for Major League Baseball as well as pool parties in Sin City. Considering himself a ‘lifer’ in the entertainment industry, this veteran DJ shares a little more with us. NGM: How would you describe yourself as an artist? DP: I always adapt my style to the venue and event. I feed off of the crowd’s energy, playing the obvious songs that people want to hear mixed with songs not expected, to really get a reaction. I try to constantly evolve and re-invent my sets, keeping it fun for myself and the crowd. NGM: When were you first exposed to DJing? DP: Out of High School I got a job for a DJ company playing weddings and corporate 14 niteguidemag.com
dj edits, and random YouTube videos on my NGM: What are you currently working on as
blog at www.djdrewpierce.com.
far as music goes? DP: I’m currently working with Ben Rico on a remix project called Mr Machine. We are putting together a live show where we will mash up and remix songs live. It’s still in the early phases so stay tuned for our debut later this year. Our remix of FM’s “If I was you” has 10,000 hits on YouTube. NGM: Name some places we can see you spin this summer. DP: Saturdays at Heat Ultra Lounge, voted OC’s # 1 club. Fridays at either 1616 in LA or Sangria in Hermosa. Thursdays at Sharkeez in Huntington or Shark’s Cove in Manhattan. I’m also finalizing some dates for Vegas pool parties throughout summer. I’m the official DJ for Tres Sietes Tequila as well,
Graphics by Tommy Lafleur
so I’ll be playing all of their promo events. Add him on Facebook & Twitter @djdrewpierce
The twin brothers came aboard the promotional company, and helped build one of the most sought after brands in San Diego. The group covers every aspect of promotion, including production, advertising, marketing, consulting, and promoting. The award-winning team led by the brothers specializes in surging nightlife, in addition to day time events such as pool parties. Their reach extends beyond San Diego, into the bright lights of Sin City as well. With over ten years of experience, DJhere holds a partnership with Angel Management Group in Las Vegas, which controls and operates over 20 venues.
DJ Here Productions By Heidi Darby
The evolution of San Diego nightlife continues to turn heads, growing from a sandy soul city, to a sandy soul city with an amazing party scene. Behind the great DJ’s, killer venues, and energetic crowds, more often than not you’ll find Patrick and Chris English, of DJhere productions.
FEATURED Bartender Kiersten Rich
By Emmanuel Cayanan
The pool deck that sits on the rooftop of the W Hotel at Drai’s in Hollywood has a warm and inviting nighttime atmosphere that is luxurious and sexy. Perhaps it is the softly-lit cabanas, the crimson red cushioned couches or the incredible view of the night sky that makes this place pop. But what definitely enhances the welcoming ambiance of Wet at Drai’s Hollywood is the presence of Kiersten Rich, our Featured Bartender for the month of May.
Photography by PRADOFOTO
Originally from Temecula, Kiersten came to Drai’s after working a couple years in a corporate office setting. Landing a role with a promotional modeling agency as a brand ambassador for hundreds of companies, Kiersten decided to temporarily set her degree in finance from San Diego State University on the shelf and take some time to reevaluate her career path. Today, she travels the world through her modeling agency and enjoys her role as a bartender at Drai’s.
The brothers have stated that their focus lies with their guests, and whether it be a DJ, bottle service, or a venue, DJhere works tirelessly to attain customer satisfaction. Creating new and innovative ways to enjoy events is all part of the process for the real estate finance grads, who pride themselves on generating a fresh new vibe, even for the weekly club nights.
Their resume of events includes performances by (but definitely not limited to) Busta Rhymes, Kaskade, Deadmau5, and DJ Scooter. Upcoming events in San Diego include a Thursday night weekly at Bar West, and dual parties at Hard Rock Hotel with Friday nights Float & 207, and Saturday Day parties with SpyOnVegas.com. They’re also invloved with Hot 100 event series at the Se’ Hotel, Saturday Night’s at Ivy Nightclub and poolside Intervention Sundays. The Southern California natives also have their hands in the powerhouse gig at The Joint in Las Vegas, featuring world renowned DJ, Tiesto. Also in Vegas, DJhere is involved with PURE Nightclub, LAX Nightclub, and Wet Republic. With all the world at their fingers, the English brothers are making sure to grab hold, and show people how to party.
“I’m taking time off to really enjoy everything L.A. has to offer,” Kiersten said. “When I was working the standard nineto-five in a corporate environment, I would always have to choose between work and play. At Drai’s, I have the ability to never miss out on the fun and earn a living.” While her job on the surface seems like all fun and cocktails, Kiersten plans to utilize her experience at Drai’s in the bright entrepreneurial future she envisions for herself. She draws inspiration and motivation from the diverse crop of movers and shakers that frequent the lavish swimming pool and nightclub. Kiersten, who enjoys any party setting with good people and good music, genuinely believes there is nothing like Drai’s. A Los Angeles venture by Vegas nightlife impresario Victor Drai, Drai’s brings some Vegas heat to the Hollywood skyline. She is looking forward to the summer pool parties at Drai’s, where she will be bartending and perhaps sipping on her favorite cocktail – whiskey and ginger ale.
Photo by Chad J. Wilson
Featured Promoter
niteguidemag.com 15
T
By Emmanuel Cayanan
he people of Rio De Janeiro have been in a celebratory mood ever since it was announced that the 2016 Summer Olympics will be held at Rio’s very own Maracana Stadium. The most visited city in the southern hemisphere, São Sebastião do Rio de Janeiro (known simply as “Rio”) offers a variety of attractions. There are scenic views, beautiful beaches, lively street celebrations, beautiful women, iconic landmarks, the most widely recognized giant statue, Christ the Redeemer and the largest Art Deco statue in the world. The metropolitan city itself offers a wide range of nightlife opportunities that cater to just about any type of nighttime dweller. There is live music, theater, bars, cafes, lounges and clubs all waiting to be discovered. With your passport in hand, lose yourself in this vibrant city. You may have to wait until next year to participate in the world-famous Carnival celebration, but the nightlife scene in Rio offers many opportunities to satisfy your appetite.
Carnival While it is a tradition that is practiced in many Catholic countries around the world, Rio is often thought to be the Carnival Capital of the World. Approximately 500,000 foreigners flock to Rio for this massive party every year. It is a 4-day celebration that is a sort of “last hurrah” before the 40-day Lent tradition of abstaining from bodily pleasures. The lively and colorful event exhibits true Brazilian culture, with Samba music, garish and elaborate costumes and an over-the-top parade complete with floats, dancers and various performers delivering an unforgettable visual extravaganza. This year’s Rio Carnival took place on March 5 and ended on March 8.
Beach The town of Copacabana is crawling with beautiful people. Rio locals, self-identified as Cariocas, can be seen lounging and frolicking around Copacabana’s 4-km beach. Along Av. Atlntica, explore the flavors of Rio at the many cafés and restaurants. A short walk will get you to Ipanema, a trendy cultural area where one can indulge in Rio’s best shopping. While this beach is smaller than Copacabana, it’s a jackpot in scantily clad smoking hot women. One visit here, and you’ll understand why singers for years have been crooning about “The Girl From Ipanema.”
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Baronetti is a plush and modern upscale restaurant, lounge and club, and it is perhaps one of the most talked-about nightlife destinations in Rio. Rio locals, also known as Cariocas, come here to be seen. It has a reputation for attracting the attractive, and on any given night, you can see a bunch of Rio’s most beautiful women in the crowd at Baronetti. The upstairs lounge and bar serve up Rio’s finest sushi and cocktails. Downstairs, the vibe begins to get a bit familiar with local DJs spinning American house music. The crowd is mostly in their early twenties at this 18+ establishment. Laser projectors and LED lighting set the ambiance of this sleek and sexy venue.
Rio Scenarium is an extraordinary club, restaurant and antiques warehouse made up of four buildings. Enjoy the best in Brazil’s live music scene, and become enveloped in the seductive sounds of Brazilian samba. The garish mix of the antique décor make for an interesting setting, It almost feels as if you are dining and dancing in an old but posh attic with wall clocks, radios, bicycles and mannequins coloring the background. Enjoy a glass of Brazilian sparkling wine and partake in the popular finger food platters.
Nuth Lounge is a two-story venue that attracts young and wealthy Brazilians and tourists alike. Most busy on Thursday and Saturday nights, Nuth is perhaps the quintessential singles joint, where a heavy emphasis on hooking up is prevalent. A tropicalthemed club and bar, Nuth comes complete with a large outdoor area in the back perfect for escaping when the dance floor becomes overly crowded. Rio’s best-looking have been turning heads at Nuth since the turn of the century. It is one of the city’s best places to dance and is worth putting up with long lines and rude doormen.
Melt is popular among the Carioca elite. The restaurant and lounge bar begins its evenings serving up Tex-Mex and Thai food in an open kitchen dining setting. As the evening progresses, the sounds of samba and electro-hip hop begin to take the lead in setting the ambiance. Locals and foreigners alike frequent this place. Dress to impress at this or any other place in Rio. Melt offers a wide range of music, from hip-hop to salsa, dance, or samba-rock.
Bar d’Hotel overlooks one of the most famous beaches in the world and is a sexy and trendy eatery that attracts stars and stargazers. Tourists and locals alike come to gawk (without gawking) at the many notable personalities that frequent this posh hotspot. The glamorous clientele range from actors to athletes to musicians. Favorite drinks at Bar d’Hotel include the kir royal (champagne with lemon sorbet) and the Caipirinha, made with sake and lychee.
niteguidemag.com 17
FEATURED VENUE
By Rachel Salas
A
ttention fans of magic and sorcery! A real-life Hogwarts school of Witchcraft and Wizardry exists in the historic hills of Los Angeles.
The Magic Castle is a Victorian mansion that was established in 1909 and serves as the world’s most famous performance venue, high-end restaurant, and private member club for renowned magicians across the globe. An enchanted evening at The Magic Castle consists of ball gowns and tuxedos (guests are required to dress for the occasion), up to five magic shows from trained magicians, and a luxurious dinner experience complete with Filet Mignon, Classic Beef Wellington, and Pan Seared Salmon among other delicious meals. This highly exclusive club requires a membership that can only be gained through knowing an existing member, or, one can visit as a member’s guest.
By Rachel Salas
Recognized magicians that have been regular performers at The Magic Castle include: Mark Wilson, Jay Ose, Senator Crandall, Johnny Platt, Kuda Bux, and Billy McComb. Other “celebrity magic hobbyists” that have taken the stage at the Magic Castle consist of: Cary Grant, Jason Alexander, Steve Martin, Johnny Carson, and Neil Patrick Harris. So, who wants to be the next Harry Potter? Start practicing your tricks, mixing your potions, and casting your spells for an entry into this wickedly exciting entertainment Mecca for magic. The Magic Castle | 7011 Franklin Ave. Hollywood, Ca. 90028 For membership info contact: 323.851.3313 | talaskey@magiccastle.com www.magiccastle.com | www.facebook.com/officialmagiccastle
Main B
ar
To add to the charm of this mysterious dwelling, visitors are to recite a secret phrase to an owl sculpture to gain access into the facility. Inside, magicians perform in different theaters such as the Close-Up Gallery, Parlor of Prestidigitation, the Music Room, and the Palace of Mystery. The Magic Castle also serves as home to the Academy of Magical Arts (AMA). This non-profit organization was established in 1962 by William Larsen Jr. and Milt Larsen and hosts nearly 5,000 members today. The Academy focuses on the history, advancement, and the art of performance in magic. “The Academy of Magical Arts, Inc. has been and will continue to be the premier organization in the world dedicated to the art of MAGIC. We are an organization which promotes the art of magic, encourages fellowship and maintains the highest ethical standards. We provide a friendly environment where members and their guests can enjoy the art and each other’s company. Our goals and objectives are to advance the art and promote a positive image of magic and magicians worldwide.” - Academy of Magical Arts.
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FEATURED RESTAURANT
Modern LA Restaurant meets the Old West By Rachel Salas
S
addle Ranch Chop House has cer-
Resources Manager. “We want this to be a
menu reads “if you want to know what’s in it.
tainly made a name for itself in Los
destination restaurant. We want people to
. . order it!”). All specialty drinks are served
Angeles. This iconic destination res-
come in, eat, have a great time, watch the
in carafes and poured by their entertaining
taurant looks like something straight out of
bull riding competition, and stay long after
bartenders.
Disneyland’s Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show.
their meal.”
Famous for its mechanical bull, an open
The restaurant’s new TV show called “Saddle
campfire for roasting s’mores, great chop
Saddle Ranch’s extensive menu includes
Ranch” premiered on VH1 on April 17. The
house cuisine, karaoke, celebrity sightings,
a variety of American cuisine such as the
show takes viewers on a fun, sexy, rock ‘n roll
dancing, and their own reality television show,
delicious Jalapeno Mac & Cheese, New York
mechanical bull ride into the lives and dreams
is there anything this restaurant doesn’t have?
Strip, Prime Rib, BBQ Baby Back Ribs, Kettle
of employees working at the iconic restaurant
Well, maybe a cotton candy tower? Oh wait,
of Onion Rings, Hollywood Burger and of
-- from the hosts and bartenders, to the wait
they have that, too.
course, the Cotton Candy Tower.
staff and managers. The show follows the daily lives of employees as they juggle to find the right balance between personal life and their dream job. Next time you’re in Los Angeles, be sure to tumble into Hollywood’s most energetic restaurant.
Saddle Ranch opened its first location on the
“We’re famous for our steaks and ribs,” said
famous Sunset Strip in West Hollywood in
Nguyen. “And I can tell you that every single
[Sunset] 8371 Sunset Blvd.
September 1999. With much success, Saddle
person I’ve brought to the restaurant says
West Hollywood, CA 90069
Ranch soon expanded to the Universal City
they’re the best ribs you’ll ever have. We’re
323.656.2007
Walk in Los Angeles, as well as two out-of-
also known for our Jalapeño Mac n’ Cheese.
state locations in Scottsdale and Glendale,
We are famous for our Cotton Candy Tower,
[Universal Citywalk] 1000 Universal Hollywood Dr.
Arizona. Saddle Ranch has plans to expand
which is three feet of cotton candy served in
Universal City, CA 91608
into Orange County within the next year.
a martini glass. People order it; they have fun
818.760.9680
with it and they make moustaches out of it.” “It’s a rock meets western theme with an over-
[Glendale] 9375 West Coyotes Blvd.
sized bar, a mechanical bull, western decor,
Saddle Ranch is also known for their gener-
Glendale, AZ 85305
and campfire pits where you can roast your
ous servings of specialty cocktails. Saddle
623.889.7770
own s’mores in front of the fire or just relax
Ranch’s cocktails include the Bullfighter, Texas
and enjoy a drink,” said Vu Nguyen, Human
Tea Party, and the Saddle Ranch AMF (as the
20 niteguidemag.com
www.srrestaurants.com
NiteGuide’s Featured Food:
Hangover Cures
By Rachel Salas
Text FOOD to 67777 to receive the exclusive coupon deal of the week!
L
et’s face it, while enjoying yourself with a night out on the town filled with shots, house cocktails, and ice cold beers, the ramifications one faces the next day hasn’t proved to be as pleasant. Nothing sounds good when dealing with a nasty hangover, but the truth is that the greasier the food, the happier your stomach will be. NitGuide Magazine comes to the rescue, and helps navigate through the best hangover foods and (yes) cocktails in southern California. A’s Burger In-N-Out can take a back seat to A’s Burgers’ delicious hamburgers. Greasy, juicy, and satisfying are words that can only be used to describe these delicious creations. These dive burger joints around Southern California bring in crowds of young people who indulge in A’s Burgers’ classic combo, consisting of a burger, fries, and a coke. A’s Burgers’ classic-style hamburger is made up of a large and flavorful patty, complete with shredded lettuce, fresh tomato slices, diced onions, on a warm bun. Roll out of bed, take an Advil, and drive to the nearest A’s Burgers to get rid of that horrible hangover once and for all. A’s Ace Burger [Dana Point] 34344 Pacific Coast Hwy, 92629 | 949.496.4460
El Mariachi Burrito Mexican food always seems to hit the spot when your body is experiencing deficiencies from drinking. Burritos in particular help give an extra boost when you’re in a drinking recovery stage. El Mariachi in San Clemente has proven to create delicious tasting food by winning various awards in the “Best of San Clemente.” The restaurant’s popular house-made burrito is made with guests’ choice of seasoned beef, tender chicken, spicy carne aside, chile relleño, chile rojo or chile verde. The meal is completed with refried beans, rice, chips and salsa. El Mariachi [San Clemente] 1925 South El Camino Real, 92672 | 949.369.5111 | www.elmr.us
Biscuits and Gravy Everybody knows that eating a hearty meal for breakfast is the key to recovering from a bad hangover. While eggs, burgers, and pizza are notable remedies for this sort of problem, there is also another delicious and often understated meal that works wonders: good ol’ country biscuits and gravy. Old Vine Café in Costa Mesa is the place to visit for the most satisfying and tasty Biscuits and Gravy in Orange County. Old Vine Café’s Chef, Mark McDonald, serves up two hot, baked biscuits that are made “in house.” They are smothered in Italian sausage, pancetta, and topped off with a thick and creamy gravy, and accompanied by warm potatoes. Old Vine Cafe [Costa Mesa] 2937 Bristol St., 92626 | 714.545.1411 | www.oldvinecafe.com 22 niteguidemag.com
Lox Bagel New York City bagel stores, watch out! I Love Bagels in Laguna Niguel is the busiest and best-tasting bagel store in Orange County. It rivals the authentic taste of New York’s classically-made bagels, made with their secret ingredient...water? Needless to say, eating carbohydrates (whether in Manhattan or Laguna Niguel) in the morning is a good way to start your day. I Love Bagels’ popular Lox Bagel has been rumored to help a hanover. This flavorful bagel is made with a cured salmon filet, freshly-chopped red onions, light cream cheese, tomatoes, capers, served on your favorite bagel.
By Emmanuel Cayanan
Photo by Rachel Salas
I Love Bagels [Southern Orange County]
Deep Fried Mac n’ Cheese Nothing says comfort food like The Slidebar Rock-N-Roll Kitchen in Fullerton’s award-tasting Deep-Fried Mac n’ Cheese! This hip restaurant not only serves the best food in northern Orange County, but it is also used as a music venue for Orange County artists. Great entrees and authentic talent are two reasons why people flock to this fun establishment. The Slidebar’s “world-famous” Mac n’ Cheese is made up of macaroni balls that are lightly breaded, and fried until they are golden-brown. They are served with homemade ranch dressing and marinara sauce. This dish was hailed “Best Mac n’ Cheese” by OC Register. The Slidebar Rock-N-Roll Kitchen [Fullerton] 122 E. Commonwealth Ave, 92832 | 714.871.2233 | www.slidebarfullerton.com
Margherita Pizza Pizza is known as one of the best foods to help recover from a nasty hangover. Stella’s Serious Italian restaurant in Monarch Beach is a a gourmet eatery with a variety of delicious pizzas, among other creative Italian dishes. With two of the owners originating from New York, Stella’s brings that extra East Coast flair to this Orange County restaurant. The Margherita pizza is skillfully made in a classic wood-burning oven, open for the public to observe. A fluffy, thick crust serves as the foun- dation for the homemade pizza. Tasty marinara sauce is slathered on the crust, with fresh mozzarella stacked on top. Sliced vine-ripened clusters of heirloom tomatoes are applied, and drizzled with extra virgin olive oil. Fresh basil chiffonade completes this remarkable dish. Photo by Rachel Salas
Stella’s Serious Italian [Monarch Beach] 17 Monarch Bay Plaza, 92629 | 949.234.1679 | www.stellasitalian.com
Fried Peanut Butter & Jelly Sandwich Fried peanut butter and jelly sandwich? Yes, you heard right! America’s favorite sandwich just got that much better. Joe’s in Fullerton is home to these uniquely designed treats. If only mom packed these types of sandwiches for lunch, you would have been the coolest kid on the playground. Joe’s takes the richest peanut butter and pairs it with the freshest homemade jelly, forms it into a delicious sandwich, and fries it to form a crispy and delightful meal. The sandwich is topped off with strawberries and served with a large scoop of vanilla ice cream. Either lunch or dessert, Joe’s knows how to satisfy his guests. Come cure that hangover with a piece of fried heaven. Joe’s [Fullerton] 124 W Commonwealth Ave 92832 | 714.879.2600 niteguidemag.com 23
FEATURED FOOD Señor Pedros Tacos Step aside Pedro’s Tacos. SEÑOR Pedro’s Tacos takes the term authentic Mexican food to a new level. This tiny hole-in-the-wall across the street from the Mission in San Juan Capistrano is like stepping into Tia’s kitchen in Guadalajara. Cheap prices, delicious food, and fast-paced service brings repeat business back to this small restaurant. Señor Pedro’s Tacos is known for well, their incredible made-to-order tacos. You get your choice of fresh fish tacos, carne aside tacos, chicken tacos, vegetarian tacos, or carnitas tacos topped off with fresh cilantro, chopped onions, and lime wedges, served traditionally with Spanish rice and beans. Señor Pedros Tacos [San Juan Capistrano] 31721 Camino Capistrano, 92675 | 949.489.7752
Harbor House Cheese Fries The Harbor House Café has been a popular destination spot for late-night eating binges since the 1930s. Photographs of Old Hollywood’s finest film stars line the interior of the restaurant from walls to ceiling. Open 24 hours, 365 days a year, this restaurant is certainly the place to visit after a late night out on the town. The Harbor House Café hosts the tastiest cheese fries in town. Large, fluffy, hot fries are smothered in thick, melted cheddar cheese. Chili can easily be added for extra flavor and substance to make that headache disappear in an instant. Next time, forget fast food and head towards every beach town’s bestknown late-night Café. Harbor House [Dana Point & Sunset Beach] For more information log onto: www.harborhousecafe.com
The Mad Breakfast Sandwich The Mad Breakfast Sandwich from Mad Dogs Café in San Diego is the one of the best breakfast sandwiches around. Breakfast is served all day because Mad Dogs Café understands that people drinking the night before may wake up past breakfast hours. How courteous of them to accommodate us creatures of the night. The Mad Breakfast Sandwich is made with fluffy scrambled eggs, fresh onions and bell peppers, jack and cheddar cheese, with guests’ choice of andouille sausage, bacon, or veggie sausage. It is served on a lightlytoasted house-made baguette. Mad Dog’s Cafe [San Diego] 746 Emerald St, 92109 | 858.750.3114 | www.maddogscafe.com
Banana Cream Pie After a night of heavy drinking, eating a banana is a good way to help a hangover because bananas replenish potassium lost to alcohol’s diuretic effect. So why not go the extra mile and indulge in a delicious Banana Cream Pie from Four N 20 Restaurants in Los Angeles! This 1969 establishment was initially intended as a pie shop and has since branched off into other fine foods. Home is where the heart is, and Four N 20’s heart is with specially-made pies. The popular Banana Cream Pie is homemade with of ripe, soft bananas, a delicious cream filing, fluffy whip cream, and rich chocolate drizzled throughout. Four N 20 Restaurants’ [Los Angeles] To find a location near you log onto www.fourn20pies.com 24 niteguidemag.com
niteguidemag.com 25
FEATURED DRINKS Pomegranate Mimosa Spritzer Café Mimosa [San Clemente]
243 Avenida Del Mar, 92672 | 949.481.6780 | www.cafemimosasc.com By Rachel Salas Café Mimosa is a taste of France in San Clemente. Uniquely designed as a quaint French Brassiere, Café Mimosa is loaded with freshly-made croissants, delicious french toast, fine champagne, and of course, nine different flavored mimosas. This adorable restaurant is a romantic spot for any occasion. The Pomegranate Mimosa Spritzer is what owner Antoine Price likes to describe as “a regular and employee favorite.” The drink is made with fresh pomegranate juice, Cristalino Jaume Serra Champagne, and served over ice. The carbonated bubbles are sure to settle any stomach troubles after a night of heavy drinking. Photo by Rachel Salas
Come in and enjoy a Croque Monsieur paired with the town’s favorite Pomegranate Mimosa Spritzer.
Ramos House Soju Bloody Mary The Ramos House Café [San Juan Capistrano]
31752 Los Rios Street 92675 | 949.443.1342 | www.ramoshouse.com By Rachel Salas
Imagine stepping back into the year 1881. A small house made of wooden shackles, with a unique porch that stands boldly in the face of curious passerbyers being beckoned into the delicious-smelling kitchen. Today, such a place exists. The Ramos House Cafe located on Los Rios Street in historical San Juan Capistrano has been charming residents and visitors since 1994. The Ramos House’s popular Bloody Mary rests in a mason jar and is made with Soju, a distilled Asian liquor that resembles the taste of Vodka. Clamato, horseradish, homemade Krakatoa hot sauce, pepper, worcestershire sauce, freshly-squeezed lemon juice, garlic, and chopped green olives are other ingredients that make up this delicious drink. It is cleverly garnished with a crab claw, pickled green beans, and scotch quail eggs. This Bloody Mary is the perfect remedy for any hangover.
Michelada
Coyote Grill [Long Beach] 31621 South Coast Hwy, 92655 | 949.499.4033 | www.CoyoteGrill.tv/index.html By Rachel Salas
Photo by Rachel Salas
Looking for a beautiful view of the Pacific Ocean accompanied by fabulous-tasting Mexican food and drinks? Look no further, for Coyote Grill in Laguna Beach is the locals’ most raved about restaurant.
26 niteguidemag.com
It is not uncommon for residents to flock to Coyote Grill on weekend mornings to cure a hangover. The Michelada is a cocktail similar to a Bloody Mary that has been proven to settle many hangover symptoms. This genius cocktail is made with the beer of your choice, freshlysqueezed lime juice, tobasco, and clamato.
niteguidemag.com 27
ASK A BARTENDER
Real Bartending Stories Revealed…
Q: A: In honor of this month’s party issue, I’ve gone straight to the source and rounded up some reader-submitted bar stories that sum up the sort of stuff we deal with everyday. Check out a What are some of the craziest things that happen at bars?
few testimonials from bartenders who have seen it all and lived to tell the tale. Blood Brothers
them. My brand new work shirt was stapled to my chest and covered
“I once landed a job working at a local beach bar known for strictly hiring
in blood.
town natives. On the third day, one of the owners walked in and asked who the hell I was. After introducing myself as the new hire he asked
When the other owner strolled in, I was sure he would be appalled that
calmly, “Do you enjoy pain?” I wasn’t quite sure how to reply, but I said,
I was bloody and stapled. Instead, he was pissed that I hadn’t changed
“Sure, why?” He disappeared and came back with a staple gun. Not a
yet! It literally took pliers to get a few of them out of me, but as least
stapler, a staple gun -- like for wood! He looked at me dead-serious and
no body could question my dedication to the bar!” – Steven L., San
offered me a deal: I could keep
Clemente, CA
my new job if I could ‘take the pain.’ His terms were simple.
Her Precious
We were to staple each
“One of the most ridiculous spectacles I’ve witnessed happened on a
other, staple-for-staple
super busy Friday night. A very drunk girl rushed up to the bar, mumbling
in the same places on
frantically that her ring was missing and she was sure I had stolen it. I
each others’ bodies (just
told her I hadn’t, but that I’d find the manager. When I turned to look
in case he was certifi-
for him, she hoisted her entire body, belly-down onto the bar top and
ably insane, I amended
flopped behind the bar (with a graceful face-first landing). She proceeded
our deal to no stapling
to crawl around, somehow now barefoot, behind the bar on her hands
above the neck or be-
and knees in desperate search of her ring. When I rushed up and told
low the waist). I stapled
her to leave, she looked at me with glazed eyes and said dismissively,
him first, dead center in
‘Oh no, it’s fine. The manager said I could do this.’ I finally got her off
the peck, and got one
the floor, but she was hell-bent on leaving the way she came. She kind
right back. We’re talking
of scared me, so I let her flop back over the bar like a beached whale,
half-inch deep staples in
where I think she landed head first on the other side. Heard she found
the ribs, then nipples next. I
her ring though.” – Ashley B., Costa Mesa, CA
never thought it would have bled so much. His sternum shot, hit
That’s a Spicy Meathead!
the bone for sure. Then, after a
“I used to work at a popular, upscale Italian chain a few years back. One
dozen staples into each other,
day, two couples came in on a double date, and drank wine like it was
we hugged and I was one of
water all night. While the girls were in the bathroom, the guys started arguing about a plate of calamari (they were clearly on steroids). One guy stood up, screamed Hulk-style and flipped the table over. The other, out of nowhere, somehow got a hold of a huge wooden pepper mill and started swinging it around like a baseball bat. It was so surreal – like a scene from WWE! Just as this was happening, their dates came stumbling back and saw the fight going down. Instead of getting help, they immediately started wrestling each other to the ground, clawing faces and ripping hair left and right. The whole thing lasted only a minute or two max, but was pure Springer action. They were kicked out quickly, but luckily I was holding a credit card for their bill. I put a 30 percent gratuity on it and chalked it up to terrible parenting.” –Robert E., Buena Park, CA There you have it, some shining examples of why bartenders sometimes cry at the end of their shifts. Just kidding. Kind of. ;)
FEATURED ALCOHOL
“Bloody Mary” “Bloody Mary” “Bloody Mary” Vodka
B
By Rachel Salas
elvedere Vodka is an innovative and renowned
“Each flavored ingredient is distilled separately, and
Vodka that recognizes the significance of the
then the flavored Vodkas are blended together. So, the
Bloody Mary, both historically and in taste. The
Bloody Mary includes seven different distillations: fresh
notable brand is now launching Belvedere Bloody Mary,
tomato, black pepper, horseradish, bell pepper, chile
the latest spirit that is certain to stir up commonplace
pepper, lemon, and vinegar,” said Smith.
brunch festivities. Belvedere is taking part in celebrating 77 years of this iconic cocktail.
Nearly 200 flavor combinations were tested, and the final recipe includes equal parts black pepper and horse-
The Bloody Mary has been in existence since 1934,
radish, vinegar distillate, which imitates freshness with-
when Parisian bartender, Fernand Petiot, introduced the
out the heat that Tabasco brings. Other flavors that were
avant-garde drink to the famous King Cole Bar at the St.
tested, but declined include: habanero peppers, birds-
Regis Hotel in New York City. During the time period, the
eye chiles, green peppers, garlic, sun dried tomato, and
name “Bloody Mary” was deemed too vulgar for the
onion.
elegant hotel, and was quickly renamed “Red Snapper.” While the revised name did not catch on, the taste of the unique cocktail certainly did.
“The onion was nice on the nose, but it tasted awful,” Smith said. “It was like the taste of onions the day after you’ve eaten them.”
Belvedere Bloody Mary brings a one-of-a-kind, consistent product to the market. While most
Belvedere preserves its clear color in the finished Belve-
brands create unoriginal Bloody Mary mixes that
dere Bloody Mary product; not red, as expect-
require the assistance of ordinary Vodka, Belve-
ed. The Vodka alone contains distinctive flavors
dere provides the exact opposite: smooth and
of cracked black pepper with hints of fresh to-
flavorful Vodka with the option of adding other
matoes, perfect for enhancing the traditional
ingredients.
ingredients in a Bloody Mary.
Leading Belvedere mixologists diligently distilled different flavors that have been combined in a single alcohol, to make the Bloody Mary experience that much more enticing. Add tomato juice as needed. Clare Smith, Head of Spirit Creation and Mixology for Belvedere, explained how the product was created:
ARY
BELVE BLOODY M
Belvedere Bloody Mary - 1.5 oz 1 oz splash tomato juice 0.5 oz fresh squeezed lemon juice (Garnish with Celery) Build in an ice filled 10 oz. highball glass
EXCLUSIVELY AT DAYCLUB HOURS: DAILY 10AM-7PM I NIGHTCLUB HOURS VARY PLEASE CALL FOR MORE INFORMATION MARQUEE | NIGHTCLUB & DAYCLUB | LAS VEGAS | AT THE COSMOPOLITAN | 702 333 9000 | MARQUEELASVEGAS.COM FOLLOW US:
FACEBOOK.COM/MARQUEELV
TWITTER.COM/MARQUEELV
MEMORIAL DAY EVENTS
Memorial Day Weekend Guide The Love Festival Las Vegas • May 27th- 29th The Love Festival Las Vegas is a 3 day music festival featuring sounds
Lightening in a Bottle Silverado, CA • May 27th-30th
from some of the worlds most in demand DJs on one of the biggest
The 4 day Lightning in a Bottle festival will, once again, be held at the
weekends in Las Vegas. After a record breaking festival last year, we
Oak Canyon Ranch in Silverado CA. Aside from four stages of live music
have set the bar even higher as we turn Sin City into the epicenter of
the experience includes performances, art installations, live painting,
dance music for Memorial Day Weekend! Log onto www.TheLoveFes-
workshops and speakers, yoga, camping, a vendor village including
tival.com for ticket pricing and more information.
healthy and organic foods, a kids and family zone, free water, and it
Cosmopolitan- Marquee Las Vegas • May 27th- 30th
has been voted the greenest festival in the United States!
Marquee kicks Memorial Day Weekend off the right way! Friday morning
Intervention San Diego
the day starts off with a like performance by Sean Paul and The Captains
Hard Rock Hotel San Diego is taking Memorial Day weekend to epic
of Industry and at night Markus Schulz and Roget Sanchez blow up the
proportion with a two-day bash featuring two of the world’s most
stage. The party continues on Saturday morning with Above & Beyond
popular DJ’s. Saturday’s party will feature the number one-rated DJ
and Cedric Gervais and at night ATB and Laidback Luke. Sunday morn-
on the planet, Dutch legend Armin Van Buuren for a very rare San
ing is no exception FatBoy Slim performs and a White Party at night
Diego appearance. Maintaining the momentum and its reputation as
with Armin Van Buuren and Black Jarrell. This is where most parties
San Diego’s party capital, the bash continues Sunday with renowned
would end Memorial weekend but not at Marquee. Monday morning
trance music group Above and Beyond. Room packages are available
kicks off with Party Rock, special DJ set by Redfoo of LMFAO, and
at hardrockhotelsd.com. For general admission tickets and bottle
special guest Chuckie. Marquee ends the weekend celebration with a
service visit wwwminterventionsd.com.
free beach party with Chuckie and Robbie Rivera. For more information go to www.MarqueeLasVegas.com.
8th Annual Newport Beach Wine Festival Newport Beach • May 27th-29th
F**K Me I’m Famous Las Vegas • May 29th Come out to the craziest party in Vegas Memorial Day weekend! Cathy and David Guetta bring Ibiza to Las Vegas with the world renowned F*** Me I’m Famous Party. Featuring Billboard #1 artist David Guetta along
Come out for the 8th Annual Newport Beach Wine Festival® over the
with eye-popping performances and production, this is a onetime only
Memorial Day weekend May 27-29th, 2011. Our idyllic waterfront set-
show and not to be missed. Log onto www.HardRockHotel.com for
ting at The Balboa Bay Club & Resort provides the backdrop for eight
ticket pricing and more information.
exciting food and wine events celebrated over three days. Acclaimed experts will serve as the guides, captivating festival-goers with educa-
Surrender NightClub Weekend Las Vegas • May 27th- 29th
tional seminars and wine events with endless tasting tables. For more
The hottest line up of DJ’s and Live performances Memorial Day week-
information log onto www.balboabayclub.com
end at Surrender Night Club in Las Vegas. Friday May 27th Surrender
winemakers, our celebrated chefs, Master Sommeliers and noted
WET Pool Party Los Angeles • May 31st Back in popular demand! The perfect way to kick start the summer has arrived with WET LA. Taking place at the downtown Standard Hotel!
kicks off the weekend celebrating the One Year Anniversary with a live performance by Steve Aoki and Calvin Harris. Saturday May 28th the party continues with a live performance by Lil Jon. For more information log onto www.SurrenderNightClub.com.
Adam Auburn, David Bullock, Zach Hill and Steven Dimitri. Come out
Encore Beach Club Las Vegas • May 28th-30th
for this hot event and arrive early! Go to www.homemadela.com for
Grammy winning DJ Afrojack starts off the One Year Anniversary Party
more information.
at Encore Beach Clubo n Saturday May 28th for Memorial Day Weekend
Serving up poolside beats is Julius Papp, The EC Twins, Frank Boissy,
Mai Tai Bar Long Beach • May 28th
celebrations. The weekend continues with Kaskade on Saturday, and ending the weekend performing live, is deadmau5 unhooked and opening set by Feed Me! Encore has the hottest DJ’s and performances Memorial
Join Mai Tai Bar on May 28th for the Memorial Day Weekend White
Day weekend and you don’t want to miss out on this celebration. For
Party. Wear white for drink specials. The event is 9pm-close
more information go to www.EncoreBeachClub.com.
www.maitaibar.com
32 niteguidemag.com
Everyone Loves a Pub Crawl... By Heidi Darby
A pub crawl at your fingertips every weekend? Even better. A pub crawl that’s been upgraded to a club crawl? That’s exactly what Los Angeles based innovators Nasstive Entertainment have produced. Every Friday and Saturday night “The Hollywood Club Crawl” rounds up eager partygoers to participate in the ultimate club hopping experience. Bouncing from club to club the hassles of cover charges and long lines are completely alleviated, where people enjoy immediate entrance and pay only the initial “Club Crawl” fee ($20 at the event, or $15 pre-sale.) Nasstive keeps things interesting, changing venues often, but count on seeing Boulevard3, Kress, Ecco, and Highlands on the hit list. The night starts out at 10:00 pm at Beauty Bar, where a host waits to orchestrate the nights festivities, reminding partiers when and where to meet. VIP treatment at every entrance ensures that a bachelorette party, a birthday bash, or just a night out on the town runs smoothly. Mingling with all the new faces in the group only adds to the allure of the experience, and with no lines or cover charges, Nasstive has invented a fantastic option for a great night out in Hollywood. www.HollywoodClubCrawl.com
niteguidemag.com 33
Ditch Fridays [Palms Casino & Resort] Ditch Fridays at Palms Pool & Bungalows inside Palms Casino Resort has been making a splash amongst Sin City’s hottest trendsetters by hosting some of the most stimulating and highly-attended poolside parties since its inception in 2007. Reputable for making Las Vegas a hotbed of truancy for the summer months, Ditch Fridays was originally created as a way to start the weekend early, providing a reason for many to skip work, unwind and hang out poolside. Ditch Fridays continues to host some the city’s most scintillating parties, offering the ultimate poolside experience with its swanky atmosphere, live entertainment, surprise celebrity hosts and high-end amenities. The summer oasis is comprised of three-acres of opulent outdoor playground that features three pools and various attractions, including a climate-controlled gaming area, four bars and two dramatic waterfalls. A palette of bold patterns and vivid colors is accented with color-changing LED lighting built into the pools. Thirstquenching cocktails and mouth-watering cuisine are offered within a sexy, sophisticated setting enhanced with chic custom-designed furniture and décor. Featuring live concerts and world-renowned deejays all summer long, the highly successful soirees provide both locals and visitors an unparalleled poolside destination. Ditch Fridays takes place every Friday from noon – 7 p.m. For additional information, please visit www.palmspool.com or call 702.938.9999.
Marquee Dayclub [Cosmopolitan Hotel] Las Vegas’ newest home for electronic dance music continues its DJ-focused domination with Marquee Dayclub. Artists set to spin at Marquee Dayclub this summer include FatBoy Slim, BT, Above & Beyond, Chuckie, Robbie Rivera, Cedric Gervais, Sydney Blu, Cosmic Gate and more, plus the weekly nautical-themed Regatta Chic Sundays with the Captains of Industry. Guests can enjoy daytime dining poolside from an extensive menu including crabcake sliders, Kobe beach burgers, lobster club sandwiches, buffalo chicken meatballs, chopped summer salads and more. Marquee Dayclub’s specialty cocktail menu also makes a splash with the Frozen Painkiller, Day Dreamer, classic mojitos, frozen lemonade, plus Marquee’s instantly famous sparkling sangria by the pitcher as featured in “OK! Magazine.” The 22,000 square-feet of Marquee Dayclub is located at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, 3708 South Las Vegas Blvd. Marquee Dayclub opens its doors daily at 10 a.m. Guests are invited to enjoy complimentary access to Marquee Dayclub Mondays through Thursdays. Fridays and Sundays the cover charge is $20 for males and $10 for ladies (local ladies free); Saturday admission is $30 for males and $20 for ladies (local ladies free before 2 p.m.). www.marqueelasvegas.com
Rehab [Hard Rock Hotel & Casino] More than 4,000 partygoers will travel from around the world to attend this premiere pool party each weekend, making it the biggest entertainment destination in Las Vegas. Each year, the property’s signature pool party continues to grow and evolve. The 2010 season was the largest grossing Rehab season-to-date in the seven-year history. The overall revenue for 2010 was up nearly 10% over prior years and the 2010 season was extended two additional weeks beyond any season prior. REHAB happens every Sunday through October. Hours of operation are from 10 a.m. until sunset. Cover charges vary based on holidays and special events, but the general cover is $40 for men, $20 for women and local ladies receive complimentary access. Rehab patrons will also enjoy a separate valet near the pool entrance for easy access. Cabanas are in high-demand, so those interested should book early by contacting the REHAB hotline at (702) 693-5555. 34 niteguidemag.com
TAO Beach [The Venetian] TAO Beach at The Venetian transports visitors to an exotic Balinese escape. Exclusive cabanas, day beds for lounging and lush horticulture, including forty foot tall bamboo trees highlight the day to night venue, while world renowned talent commands the center stage DJ booth. TAO Beach is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. until sunset. SKAM Artists entertain crowds every Friday, with DJs from Miami, LA and beyond, kicking off every weekend in Las Vegas. Beatport Pool Sundays presented by Insomniac returns for the season, with acclaimed DJs spinning house music wrapping up the weekend each Sunday. Cabanas and Asian-inspired day beds are scattered throughout the 18,000 square foot oasis, with a bar where guests can sip on TAO-tinis and TAO-jitos made with fresh exotic ingredients. An extensive appetizer, sushi and grill menu from the kitchen of TAO Asian Bistro is also available. www.taolasvegas.com
The Beach Beach [Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino] Located on 11 acres, Mandalay Bay Beach provides the ultimate in aquatic relaxation. This worldfamous playground offers a wave pool*, lazy river, three swimming pools, jogging track and 2,700 tons of real sand. Voted Las Vegas’ premier pool experience by TripAdvisor.com in 2006, a $30 million expansion in 2007 brought to The Beach more premium seating and the exclusive new Beachside Casino. If that weren’t enough, Mandalay Beach and Moorea offer 100 rentable cabanas, day beds, bungalows and villas that include personalized service. The May through September Beach Concert Series spotlights some of the best names in music as guests are serenaded from a one-of-a-kind stage above Mandalay Beach. Concert-goers are invited to bring their blankets and sit on the beach or wade in the surf as they listen to popular performers. Featured artists have included Chicago, Joss Stone, Ziggy Marley, Foreigner and Pat Benatar.
LIQUID Pool Lounge [ARIA Resort & Casino]
Photo Courtesy Of The Light Group
LIQUID Pool Lounge at ARIA, hosted its Grand Opening on Thursday, April 14th, with special guest Dutch House music DJ, Fedde Le Grand. LIQUID is one of the newest adult-only pool lounges and restaurants on the Las Vegas Strip equipped with luxurious private cabanas complete with 40” flat screen TVs, two private dipping pools, sprawling chaise lounges and plush daybeds that surround a 1,200-square-foot main pool. Guests can expect to swim and sunbathe among Hollywood’s hottest stars, like former celebrity personalities, which include: reality television star’s Kelly Osbourne, Audrina Patridge, Kristin Cavallari and Mario Lopez, country singer Carrie Underwood, actor Zac Efron, and comedian Jamie Kennedy. Throughout the summer, LIQUID will treat daytime revelers to unparalleled live performances from top musical acts as well as renowned DJ’s, and more. LIQUID is open seven days a week starting May 1, 2011, from 11:00am-6:00pm, serving a playfully sophisticated menu for poolside dining in addition to a refreshing list of seasonal specialty cocktails. Visit the Liquid Pool • Lounge website at www.lightgroup.com
Encore Beach Club [Encore Hotel & Casino] Steve Wynn and nightlife impresario Sean Christie unveiled Encore Beach Club last season. The luxurious venue and upscale, adult-only pool atmosphere is reminiscent of European hot spots, and is the Strip’s premier daytime destination. Encore Beach Club guests are treated to an opulent oasis featuring 40-foot palm trees surrounding three tiered pools. The deck offers ample seating provided by chaise lounges, couches, and day beds featuring private safes. Guests can also choose to lounge on oversized lily pads resting in shallow water. Encore Beach Club’s gaming pavilion beckons those looking to try their luck at blackjack or craps. At 60,000 square feet, Encore Beach Club is part of the expansive entertainment complex that includes Surrender Nightclub, blending the daytime beach party and sexy nightclub into an experience that transitions guests from day to night. niteguidemag.com 35
Summer, Sun & San diego! While its pristine beaches and nearly perfect
the start of an incredible line-up of some of
adjacent 8,000 square-foot Woodstock
weather are popular draws to San Diego for
the world’s top DJs, which we look forward
Terrace, which together can hold up to 1,500
adults seeking summertime entertainment,
to revealing in the coming weeks.”
guests. Past headliners have included such celebrated house/hip-hop DJs such as:
the city’s hottest warm-weather destination is located right in the heart of downtown.
Hard Rock Hotel San Diego’s formula
Oakenfold, Deadmau5, Kaskade, Chuckie,
Hard Rock Hotel San Diego will again
combines a beautiful venue, world-class
Sander
launch the city’s largest and most nationally
DJs, plenty of eye-candy and ultra-VIP
and Felix Da Housecat. The expansive
recognized pool party and urban oasis,
service. The party takes place at Hard Rock
playground, complete with dozens of chaise
Intervention Sundays at Float on May 1. For
Hotel’s rooftop Float Pool lounge and the
lounge chairs, daybeds and VIP cabanas,
the third exciting year, the Las Vegas-bred team behind the bash is presenting a worldclass caliber of musical entertainment on par with Sin City’s most popular offerings, starting with Grammy-nominated DJ Paul Oakenfold, who has been confirmed as the headlining act for the season opener. “We have built a reputation at Hard Rock Hotel as the home of San Diego’s largest and most spectacular pool party and we strive to top ourselves from an entertainment and service standpoint from year-to-year,” said Andy Hersch, managing partner of Gramercy Management Group, operators of Float. “Last year, Paul Oakenfold delivered an epic season opener and it was only fitting to bring him back for an encore. This is just 36 niteguidemag.com
Kleinenberg,
Cedric
Gervais
provides guests with ample room to catch some sun, dance and mingle with the celebrities that regularly flock to Hard Rock Hotel. Celebrity Intervention guests in the past include: Jaime Pressly, Brody Jenner, Kim Kardashian, Shaun Phillips, Kristin Cavallari and more. Located at the entrance of the Gaslamp Quarter,
across
from
the
San
Diego
Intervention Package, giving them use of a guest room as their home base during
May Line-up
the day, plus two VIP tickets to the party. At Hard Rock Hotel San Diego there are 420 guest rooms to choose from, including 17 Rock Star suites and eight Woodstock
May 15 2011 Robbie Rivera May 22, 2011 Benny Benassi Memorial Day Above & Beyond
Suites featuring private patios that flow directly into the party. Convention Center, Hard Rock Hotel San Diego boasts an upscale, contemporary
For information on Intervention at Float or
design, signature restaurants, sophisticated
to purchase general admission tickets, visit
nightlife, superior customer service and, of
www.interventionsd.com.
course, the distinct theme running through
VIP seating are always in high demand,
all Hard Rock properties – Rock ‘n’ Roll.
so for those interested, book early by
Cabanas
and
contacting Float at 619-764-6924. For For
an
all-day
party
like
Intervention
Sundays, guests can reserve the special
room
reservations,
please
visit
www.
hardrockhotelsd.com or call 888-593-6177
Photography courtesy of Intervention/Tim King niteguidemag.com 37
The Electronic Dancenary So it’s a Friday night and your friends brought you to a new electronic club that just opened up. The only problem is, you don’t normally dance to electronic music. In fact, you don’t even know the types of electronic music that are playing. Here is a list of electronic music just incase you don’t want to look like an idiot in front of the hottie who is trying to talk to you.
The Electronic Dancenary By Jon Fossler
Drum and Bass [drum’n’bass or drum and bass] -n A form of electronic music with very high beats per minute and extensive breakdowns. Drum and bass typically integrates its bass and drum hits which mimics the sounds of your racing heart. Best Drum and bass DJs: Spor, Black Sun Empire, Pendulum
Hardcore [hahrd-kawr, -kohr] –adjective A term added to electronic music that will make your ears ring for days even after you listen to it.
House [n., adj. hous; v. houz] -noun Breakbeats
Characterized by it’s repetitive use of hard hitting drum and bass beats, [brak-beets]
this music is often described as the new disco. Unlike Trance, House
A sub genre of house music that uses a 4 by 4 drum beat. Also noted
has become one of the most popular and extensive forms of dance
for it’s use of polyrhythms.
music in America. House can be broken down into a lot of subcategories
Electro [ih-lek-troh] –noun, plural A subcategory of House characterized by four on the floor rhythm patterns and robotic vocals. Electro is often uptempo and uses high
including Acid, Deep, Minimal, Progressive, and Tribal. You know you are hearing house when you hear the same beat over and over. Best House DJs: Kaskade, Roger Sanchez, Daft Punk
notes to accent the deeper drum and snare hits.
Jungle [juhng-guhl] –noun
Best Electro DJs: Deadmau5, Wolfgang Gartner, Axwell
Similar to Drum and bass, this type of music that contains the
Electronic Rock [ee-lek-tron-ik] –adjective [rok] –noun A form of rock music accented by electronic instruments and
“Amen Break,” a brief drum solo that is filled with funky beats.
Techno [tek-noh] –noun
synthesizers. In the last few years, electronic rock has made it’s way
A type of dance music created from keyboards, samplers and com-
from the recording studio and on to the dance floor.
puters. Sometimes techno can be used to describe a genre of music.
Best Electronic Rock Artists: Ratatat, Trent Reznor, Prodigy
Sometimes this can be confused with the word electronica.
Electronica [elektronika]
Trance [trans, trahns] -noun
— pl n
A term used for a group of music that involves synthesized sounds
Typically an uplifting tempo characterized by euphoric melodies often
and beats. This term is used to describe the wide variety of music
accompanied by angelic vocals. Even though you might not find trance
created by digital sounds.
outside of a large festival in America; trance remains very popular in
Dubstep [dubstep] -n A newer form of electronic music characterized by violent rhythm and
European nightclubs. Best Trance DJs: Armin van Buuren, Tiesto, Above and Beyond
bass fluctuations and occasional vocals marked by more fluctuations.
Progressive [pruh-gres-iv] –adjective
Dubstep is typically enjoyed by the hipster and headbanger crowd.
A term added to electronic music to describe songs that continues
Best Dubstep DJs: Bassnectar, Nero, Shrillex
to build and escalate.
38 niteguidemag.com
BAR/CLUB DIRECTORY
Stingaree | 454 6th Avenue, San Diego, CA 92101 | 619-544-9500 | www.stingsandiego.com
SAN DIEGO
On Broadway [San Diego]
Onyx Room [San Diego]
Spin [San Diego]
ORANGE COUNTY
Voyeur [San Diego]
8Eighty8 [Newport Beach]
755 5th Ave, CA 92101
4647 MacArthur Blvd, CA 92660
619-756-7678 www.voyeursd.com
949-660-1010 www.8Eighty8.com
Float [San Diego]
Ember [Anaheim]
207 5th Ave, CA 92101 619-702-3000 www.hardrockhotelsd.com
401 N, Anaheim CA 92805
Ivy Nightclub [San Diego]
Avec [Huntington Beach]
600 F Street, CA 92101 619-814-2055 www.ivyentertainmentsandiego.com
18582 Beach Blvd, CA 92646 714-475-4660 www.avecnightclub.com
Fluxx [San Diego]
Heat Ultra Lounge [Anaheim]
500 4th Avenue, CA 92101 619-232-8100 www.fluxxsd.com
321 W Katella Ave # 214, CA 92802 714-776-4328 www.heatultraloungeoc.com
615 Broadway, CA 92101 619-231-0011 www.obec.tv 852 Fifth Ave, CA 92101 619-235-6699 www.onyxroom.com 2028 Hancock, CA 92110 619-294-9590 www.spinnightclub.com
714-991-5101 www.emberofanaheim.com
1562 Newport Blvd, CA 92627 Eye Candy 949-548-6984 Bikini Bar [Costa Mesa] www.eyecandybikinibar.com
Woody’s Wharf [Newport Beach]
195 Bar [Anaheim]
616 J Street, CA 92101 619-531-8744 www.jsixrestaurant.com
Galaxy Theatre [Santa Ana]
The Tipsy Crow [San Diego]
770 Fifth Ave, CA 92101 619-338-9300 www.thetipsycrow.com
Sutra [Costa Mesa]
F6ix [San Diego]
806 6th Ave, CA 92101 619-238-0138 www.f6ixsd.com
LOUNGEsix [San Diego]
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Commonwealth [Newport Beach]
2318 Newport Blvd, CA 92663 949-675-0474 www.woodyswharf.com 195 W Center Street Promenade, CA 92805 714-999-8699 www.195bar.com 3503 South Harbor Blvd, CA 92704 714-957-0600 www.galaxytheatre.com 1807 Harbor Blvd, CA 92627 949-722-7103 www.sutraoc.com 2406 Newport Blvd, CA 92663 949-675-4444 www.commonwealthlounge.com
Gallery Nightclub | 3667 S. Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109 | 702-818-3700 | www.gallerylv.com
LOS ANGELES
Voyeur [Santa Monica]
Drai’s [Hollywood]
Rain Nightclub [Las Vegas]
6250 Hollywood Blvd, CA 90028 323-962-1111 www.draislosangeles.com
4321 West Flamingo Road, NV 89103 702-942-6832 www.n9negroup.com
XIV [Los Angeles]
Marquee [Las Vegas]
8117 West Sunset Blvd, CA 90046 323-656-1414 www.xivla.com
3708 South Las Vegas Blvd, NV 89109 702-521-4005 www.marqueelasvegas.com
Level 3 [Hollywood]
TAO [Las Vegas]
6801 Hollywood Blvd #367, CA 90028 323-461-2017 www.level3hollywood.com
3377 South Las Vegas Blvd, NV 89109 702-492-3960 www.taolasvegas.com
Mai Tai Bar [Long Beach]
Haze [Las Vegas]
97 Aquarium Way, CA 90802 562-435-1200 www.maitaibar.com
3730 Las Vegas Blvd South, NV 89103 702-590-8000 www.hazenightclub.com
7969 Santa Monica Blvd, CA 90046 323-654-0208 www.voyeur7969.com 618 S. Spring Street, CA 90014
Exchange [Los Angeles] 213-627-8070
www.exchangela.com
The Penthouse [Santa Monica]
The Highlands [Hollywood]
LAS VEGAS
1111 2nd Street, CA 90403 310-394-5454 www.thehuntleyhotel.com 6801 Hollywood Blvd #433, CA 90028 323-461-9800 www.thehighlandshollywood.com
Playhouse [Hollywood]
6506 Hollywood Blvd, CA 90028 323-656-4800 www.playhousehollywood.com
Kress [Hollywood]
6608 Hollywood Blvd, CA 90028 323-785-5000 www.thekress.net
Moon [Las Vegas]
Vanity Nightclub [Las Vegas]
4321 West Flamingo Road, NV 89103 702-942-6832 www.n9negroup.com 4455 Paradise Rd, NV 89109 702-693-4000 www.hardrockhotel.com
LAX [Las Vegas]
3900 South Las Vegas Blvd, NV 89119 702-492-3960 www.laxthenightclub.com
XS [Las Vegas]
3131 Las Vegas Blvd South, NV 89109 702-770-0097 www.xslasvegas.com
Jet [Las Vegas] VooDoo Lounge [Las Vegas]
3400 South Las Vegas Blvd, NV 89109 702-693-8300 www.lightgroup.com 3700 W. Flamingo Rd, NV 89103 702-492-3960 www.riolasvegas.com
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HAPPY-HOUR GUIDE ORANGE COUNTY Costa mesa Anchor Bar: 949.574.4995 Wed 7:30pm 1/2 off pizza, $2 drafts, $3 wells Memphis: 714.432.768 Mon-Fri 2:30-6:30pm Late Night Menu: Wed & Thu:10pm-12am Skosh Monahans: 714.751.6428 4-6:30pm Daily 1/2 off Selected Appetizers 25% Off All Bottles of Wine Pint, Pitcher & Drink Discounts
Slidebar: 714.871.2233 Mon-Fri 3-6pm ½ Price Drinks ½ Price Appetizers
Garden Grove On The Rocks Bar & Grill: 714.896.9000 Mon- Fri 3-7pm $1 off Draft & Bottle Beer, House Wine, Wells $1 off selected appetizers
FULLERTON Cantina Lounge: 714.879.8094 Beers: $3.50, Wells: $4.50 Appetizers: $5.00 House Tequila shots: $2.50 Margaritas: $3.00 Bud Drafts: $2.00, Bud Light Drafts: $2.50 Corona’s: $5, Heineken: $2.50 Titan Bombs (Cactus Coolers): $6 Tacos: $1, Wings: $.50 cent
LONG BEACH Cafe Sevilla: 562.495.1111 Daily 4:30-6:30pm in Tapas Bar $4 selected cocktails Buy 1 Barrel of Sangria/Margarita get 1 FREE Platter Mai Tai Bar: 562.435.1200 4–7pm Daily $5 Appetizers Domestic Beer: $2.50 pints / $6 pitcher Import Beer: $3.00 pints / $9 pitcher Well Drinks: $3.00 House Wine: $3.00 Specialty Drinks: $4.00 Late Night Happy Hour Domestic Beer: $2.50 pints / $6 pitcher Import Beer: $3.00 pints / $9 pitcher Well Drinks: $3.00 House Wine: $3.00 Specialty Drinks: $4.00 Panama Joe’s: 562.434.7417 Mon–Fri 3-7pm 2 for 1 Any Drink, Any Size! Tapas starting at $1.25
Commonwealth Lounge: 714.525.8888 (Fullerton) Daily 5pm-7pm 1⁄2 off Appetizers, $3 Draught Beers $4 Wells, $5 Sangria, Martinis & Wines Wed- 5-10pm 1/2 off glass 25% off bottles Thurs- 5-10pm Ladies Night 1⁄2 off apps, $5 Sangria, Martinis, Wine $5 LATE NIGHT MENU Available
HUNTINGTON Kabuki: 714.898.9239 Mon-Fri 3-6pm 1/2 off Apps., salads, sushi & special rolls $2 draft beer & sake $3.25 house wines $5.50 mojitos Sharkeez: 714.960.5282 Jack/Cptn & Coke: $4 Captain & Coke: $4 Skyy Cocktail: $3.50
Yard House: 562.628.0455 Mon-Fri 3–6pm Sun-Wednesday 10pm - Midnight Domestic Pints: $3.50 Craft/Imports Pints: $4.25 - $4.50 Goblets: $4.75 - $5.00 Well Drinks: $4.25 House Martinis: $6.00 Wine by Glass: $2.00 off Select Half-off Pizzas & Appetizers Paradise Piano Bar & Restaurant: 562.590.8773 Everyday 3–7pm Evo Lounge: 562.438.2026 Mon-Fri 3pm-8pm $1 Tacos $2 Domestic Drafts $2.50 Margaritas $3 Wells 1/2 off Appetizers Sat-Sun 11am-3pm $3 Breakfast Burritos $4 Bloody Mary Pints $3 Mimosas & $20 bottle of Champagne Mimosas Bucket of Beers: $15 Domestic/$20 Import Gallagher’s Pub & Grill: 562.856.8000 Mon-Fri 4-7pm Well Drinks: $3.00 Domestic Beers: $8.00 pitcher / $3.00 pints Import Beers: $10.00 pitcher / $4.00 pints
Skyy Red Bulls: $4 *same for NB location Tuna Town: 714.536.3194 Mon, Wed, Thur, Fri, Sun: 5-7pm 35% off food, drink specials. Drafts & Wells: $2 Sake: $1
NEWPORT BEACH Commonwealth Lounge: 949.675.4444 (Newport) Daily 5pm-7pm 1⁄2 0ff Appetizers, $3 Draught Beers $4 Wells, $5 Sangria, Martinis & Wines Wed- 5-10pm 1/2 off glass 25% off bottles Thurs- 5-10pm Ladies Night 1⁄2 off apps, $5 Sangria, Martinis, Wine $5 LATE NIGHT MENU Available Ten Asian Bistro: 949.660.1010 Mon-Fri 5-7pm $5 Sushi Rolls & Apps $5 Beer & Wine Il Giardino: 949.660.1010 Mon-Fri 5-7pm $5 Italian Apps & Artisan Cheese Platters $5 Martinis, Wine & Beer
KCB Branaghans Irish Pub: 562.434.3600 Mon: All appetizers & house wines ½ off Friday: Pitchers $13.00 Sgt Peppers: 562.499.4600 Wed-Thurs 7pm-8:30pm Sunday 8pm-8:30pm $3 Well Drinks 1/2 off appetizers $4 House Wine 8:30-close Wed: Well Drinks $3 8:30-close Thurs: Select Drafts $3 8:30-close Sun: PBR Tall Can & Whisky $3 Wokcano Restaurant & Lounge: 323.952.1122 3-7pm Daily ½ off Draft Beer ½ off Well Drinks House selection Red or White Wine: $4 Smooth’s Sports Grille: 562.437.7700 Mon-Fri 3:30–6:30pm Drafts: $3.00 Wells: $3.00 Appetizers & Martinis: $5.00 320 Main: 562.799.6246 Tues-Sun 5pm-7pm Well Drinks: $4.00 Select Wine: $4.00 Draft Beer: $4.00 Select Appetizers: $4.00
*Above information is subject to change. Please check website for updated pricing.
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SCAN TO WATCH THE FEATURED VIDEO OF THE MONTH...
niteguidemag.com 43
May 2011 Events Listing:
LOS ANGELES Every Monday [Ecco] Cotton Club Mondays Every Tuesday [Mai Tai Bar] $1 Tacos, $5 Don Julio shots & Steele Rod LIVE Every Wednesday [Mai Tai Bar] Big Fun Wednesdays Every Friday [Level 3] First Class Fridays first 100 people FREE Every Saturday [Level 3] KISS 102.7 Broadcasting Live from inside the club DJ Drew & Chuey Martinez 18+ May 2, Monday [Playhouse] D. Ramirez May 5, Thursday [Playhouse] Cinco De Mayo w/ DJ Eric Dlux Hosted by Jennifer Lopez May 6, Friday [Pomona Fox Theater] Dash Berlin May 6, Saturday [Level 3] First Class Fridays featuring DJ Homicide May 6, Friday [Avalon] Funkagenda May 7, Saturday [Avalon] Dirty South May 8, Saturday [Drais] Launch of Summer Pool Parties May 7, Saturday [Level 3] “Taurus Night” & Wango Pre-Party 1st 102 Taurus get in FREE
May 8, Sunday [Playhouse] Yolanda Be Cool May 11, Wednesday [ECCO] Doc Martin May 12, Thursday [Playhouse] DJ Irie May 13, Friday [Level 3] DJ Triple XL May 13, Friday [The Palladium] Above and Beyond May 13, Friday [Avalon] Dirty Bird May 14, Saturday [Level 3] Club DV8 “Wango Tango” Party May 14, Saturday [Avalon] Robbie Rivera May 14, Saturday [The Wiltern] Rusko May 14, Saturday [The Palladium] Above and Beyond May 16, Monday [Playhouse] Mark Knight May 20, Friday [The Hollywood Bowl] Kaskade May 21, Saturday [Playhouse] Ruckus May 21, Saturday [Avalon] Markuz Shultz May 21, Saturday [Level 3] Club DV8 “Glow in the Dark Pary” May 28, Saturday [Avalon] James Zabiela May 28, Saturday [Level 3] Club DV8 “Summer Kick Off” Bikini Fashion Show May 30, Monday [Playhouse] Thomas Gold Log on to MyClubScene.com now to see more events and get on list! 44 niteguidemag.com
HAPPY-HOUR GUIDE LOS ANGELES Big Wangs: 818.985.2449 (Hollywood) Sat-Sun 10-2pm: $4 Build-your-Bloody Mary Mon: Pizza & Beer combos Tues: $2 frozen Margaritas Wed-Sat: Daily Specials Joseph’s Cafe: 323.462.8697 Wed 3-7pm Specials on cocktails and tapas Geisha House: 323.460.6300 50% off Mondays Formosa Cafe: 323.850.9050 Mon-Fri 4-7pm Discounted Sake, cocktails and small plates Happy Endings: 323.469.7038 Mon-Fri 11-4pm: personal pizza $6 Mon: complimentary protein boost (Chix or Steak) Tues: $7 Wraps Wed: Your choice of sandwich + soda for $9 Thurs: Burgers $10 Magnolia: 323.467.0660 Mon-Fri 4-6pm: drink & appetizer specials
Grub: 323.461.FOOD Mon-Fri 3pm-6pm Special Appetizers just $5
Saddle Ranch: 323.822.3850 Mon-Fri 5-7pm ½ off appetizers & drinks
The Well: 323.467.9355 Everyday 5-9pm Drink specials from $4-$7
The Woods: 323.876.6612 Mon-Fri 8-10pm
Kitchen 24: 323.465.2424 Sun-Thurs until 11pm Fri-Sat until 8pm $3 Beer $5 mix drinks $6 specialty cocktails $5 appetizers
Essex: 323.460.6608 Everyday 4-7pm Sun-Wed 10-2am Mon 4-11pm: 25 cent wings Tues 4-11pm: $2 pizza w/ full price pitcher Wed 4-11pm: $3 Grill cheese Thurs 4-11pm: $5 Mac & Cheese
Dillions: 323.315.9744 Everyday $3 pints $4 well cocktails $5 22oz beer Yard House (downtown): 213.745.9273 Mon-Fri 10-12am ½ off most appetizers, beers, wines & martinis Lola’s: 323.654.5652 Mon-Fri 5:30-7:30pm $5 martinis & $5.50 appetizers Kung Pao Kitty: 323.465.0110 Mon-Fri 3:30-5:30pm $3 menu (Sake, drinks & apps)
The Abby: 310.289.8410 Mon-Fri 4-7pm $5 drinks and food Hamburger Mary’s: 323.654.3800 Mon: ½ off burgers, $5 margaritas & martinis Tues: All you can eat tacos $7.95, $5 margaritas & martinis Sun: $1 mimosas & $3 bloody marys, $5 appetizers 4-6pm Café Was: 323.466.5400 Mon-Fri 11-3pm: Two-Martini special $5, Prix Fixe Lunch special $12 Sat 11am & Sun 10am: Bottomless Champagne, Mimosas, Screwdrivers, or Bloody Mary $15
*Above information is subject to change. Please check website for updated pricing.
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May 2011 Events Listing:
ORANGE COUNTY Every Monday [Hurricanes HB] DJ Peter G Every Thursday [Il Giardino] Wine Wednesdays, A Celebration of Italian Fashion & Art Every Thursday [Black Bull Chop House HB] DJ Peter G Every Thursday [Eye Candy Bikini Bar] Beer Pong with Brooke Every Thursday [Ember] 3AM Thursdays 18+ Every Friday [Detroit Bar] Static Friday, Electronic Music Night Every Friday [Detroit Bar] Wildboys Every Friday [Avec] Haute Fridays May 4, Wednesday [Sutra] Gareth Emery, Kristina Sky, ANDR3X May 5, Thursday [Ember] 18+ Cinqo De Mayo w/KIIS FM DJ Drew May 5, Sunday [Heat] Hello Kitty MAC party May 6, Friday [Ember] Super Estrella’s Alexx, Mariachi Aftermath , Live Mariachi May 7, Saturday [Ember] Hollywood Favorite DJ HEM May 7, Saturday [Avec] Elektronik w/ Paul Mendez May 7, Saturday [Sutra] Mr. White May 8, Sunday [Heat] Spundae OC w/ Felix Da Housecat & Scotty Boy May 12, Thursday [Ember] 18+ DJ Erick Neutron May 12, Thursday [Sutra] DJ Deone May 13, Friday [Ember] Super Estrella’s Alexx, Entre Vecinos Performing Live May 13, Friday [The Grove Of Anaheim] Legends of House May 14, Saturday [Avec] Darin Epsilon, Mr Rocker, Agent A, Will Silvano May 14, Saturday [Sutra] DJ Scooter May 14, Saturday [Ember] San Fran Native DJ Playboi May 19, Thursday [Sutra] Robbie Rivera May 19, Thursday [Ember] 18+ 3AM’s Anniversary Party w/ Superstar DJ Vice May 20, Friday [Sutra] DJ Peter G & Melo D May 20, Friday [Ember] Super Estrella’s Alexx and DJ Paw, La Tentazion CD release party May 21, Saturday [Ember] DJ Hyphy Crunk and Ricky Rocks on the drums Live May 22, Sunday [Sharkeez HB] DJ Peter G May 26, Thursday [Ember] 18+ DJ Hyphy Crunk May 27, Friday [Ember] Super Estrella’s Alexx and DJ Paw, Cano 22 Performing Live May 28, Saturday [Ember] S.K.A. M. Artist DJ Cheapshot Log on to MyClubScene.com now to see more events and get on list! 46 niteguidemag.com
Bedouin Soundclash By Heidi Darby
Touring in support of their fourth studio album, Light The Horizon, reggae influenced Canadian rockers Bedouin Soundclash show growth and maturity while keeping their vibrant energy and ethereal sound. “It’s our first record we’ve done with our new drummer, Sekou (Lumumba), who’s a great addition to the band. It’s basically a new musical direction, and more introspective. It has a great deal to do with us personally, the history of the band, and coming to this point,” said Eon Sinclair, bassist and co-founder. After forming in 2001, the trio released their debut album, Root Fire which set the tone for their critically acclaimed following albums, Sounding A Mosaic, and Street Gospels. These two albums garnered great success for the band, including a Juno Award and tracks being played on various television shows. Their latest efforts on Light The Horizon attracted renowned producer King Britt, whose resume includes work with Macy
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ACCEPT DUBSTRIKE Presents HEAVY ADLERS APPETITE JOHNNY VATOS Boingo Dance Party feat. former members of OINGO BOINGO ADLERS APPETITE 5/13 LOUDNESS 5/13 5/19 COMBICHRIST / THE GREAT AMERICON 5/20 DESTRUCTION 5/21 LITA FORD LOUDNESS 5/27 STIFF LITTLE FINGERS 5/28 CAPRA / FRANKI DOLL & THE 5/19 BROKEN TOYS 6/1 THE EELS 6/3 BEDOUIN SOUNDCLASH COMBICHRIST 6/5 DON CARLOS 6/9 FRONT LINE ASSEMBLY / DIE KRUPPS 5/21 6/10 THE TUBES 6/24 DON’T STOP BELIEVIN’ (Journey Tribute) 7/2 40 OZ. TO FREEDOM (Sublime Tribute) / 5/6
LITA FORD 6/5
RED NOT CHILI PEPPERS
7/29 THOMPSON SQUARE 7/30 DAVID ALLAN COE 8/18 DIAMOND HEAD / GIRLSCHOOL 8/19 URIAH HEEP DON CARLOS 8/21 DOUG BENSON
Gray, Santigold, and Tori Amos. Recording in Pennsylvania,
T H E C OA C H H O U S E
Britt took the same energy the band has onstage, and trans-
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5/6 TYRONE WELLS 5/7 MAJOR F AND DEALIO 5/8 FUNNIEST HOUSEWIVES OF ORANGE COUNTY 5/11 MIDNITE 5/12 TWICE FOOLED MIDNITE 5/13 TOMMY CASTRO 5/14 5/14 THE KNITTERS 5/16 CITIZEN COPE (Acoustic) 5/17 SHAWN MULLINS 5/20 ERIC GALES THE KNITTERS 5/22 PETER ASHER MEMOIRS 5/26 JIM MESSINA 6/15 5/27 MARSHALL TUCKER BAND 5/28 ELVIN BISHOP 5/29 HOT AUGUST NIGHT 6/3 RIGHTEOUS BROTHERS’ BILL MEDLEY KORA 6/5 OLD 97’s 6/9 BRIAN AUGER’S OBLIVION EXPRESS 6/18 6/10 EDWIN MCCAIN / JR RICHARDS 6/15 KORA 6/16 TEXAS TORNADOS DONOVAN 6/18 DONOVAN FRANKENREITER FRANKENREITER 6/22 JEFF “SKUNK” BAXTER 7/15 6/23 WILLIE K 6/24 THE ORIGINAL WAILERS 6/25 ART ALEXAKIS of EVERCLEAR 7/1 JIMMIE VAUGHAN ABBEY ROAD (Beatles Tribute) THE BANGLES 7/8 7/9 HONK 7/23 7/14 OTTMAR LIEBERT 7/15 THE BANGLES 7/16 TODD RUNDGREN 7/22 BURTON CUMMINGS RYAN CABRERA 7/23 RYAN CABRERA 7/29 ROD PIAZZA & HIS MIGHTY FLYERS 7/30 7/30 GIN BLOSSOMS 8/6 BILLY VERA & THE BEATERS 8/10 Y & T GIN 8/12 PAULA POUNDSTONE BLOSSOMS 9/1 PATO BANTON 9/1 9/2 NEKTAR / BRAINTICKET / HUW LLOYD LANGTON 9/16 STEVE LUKATHER 9/17 CECILIO & KAPONO 9/18 KENNY LOGGINS PATO BANTON 10/22 MELISSA MANCHESTER 5/11
“He brought a lot of great colors out of our story. He’s very positive and willing to take risks, experiment, and try interesting ways of doing things in the name of getting the best results,” says Sinclair. “He encouraged us to record live off the floor, and do things in whole takes. We’d add little things here and there later on but we tried to get our sound right for the song before we recorded, rather than getting them close and working on them later.Those little touches and ideas he brought to the table really opened up our palate, and hopefully we can work with him again in the future.” With a reputation for being a great live band, these Canadian rockers have toured alongside heavy hitters such as Coldplay, No Doubt, and Nine Inch Nails, and played festivals including Warped Tour and Street Scene in San Diego. With the warm reception their latest album has received, Bedouin Soundclash continues to carve out a name for themselves.
By John Helmrich
It’s T-shirt time, The night is beginning...
I
‘ve got my Cazadores – neat – sitting patiently in a tumbler next
our hearts. When you move over to DJs however, this paradigm
to my toothbrush as I stand in my bathroom, debating which
has mistakenly shifted. Modern technology has allowed humans
shoes go with my new gaudy leather jacket. I’m rushing. I’ve
(I use that word with great apprehension) to become overnight
tried to work a long day, hit the gym after and squeeze in a quick
“microwave” DJs. Hiring these imposters along with every bored
guitar rehearsal before my 9PM pick up. I need a good night out, badly.
celebrity, model and joe-hipster – moonlighting as a DJ – has been a trend for the last few years. But it never really worked. The
I finally pick my outfit, jam some clothes in my backpack,
hottest clubs have always stayed true to the art of
and take a minute to unwind with my tequila before I’m off.
the DJ and realize that it is the single most important
Sitting on my balcony, I reflect: what am I really in search of? Maybe I’ll cross paths with a brunette that can get beyond asking me which
component in this genre of entertainment. They hire those that spend excruciating hours studying music, fine tuning their craft and instrument, and tirelessly
DJs I manage. Maybe I’ll see an awesome
dedicate
to
achieving
true
art. Not the ones on-stage for free
new sound system, some tweaked out
drinks, mating rituals, or to collect a
lighting in a club, or have some ran-
pay
dom late-night episode wandering
check
to
balance
out
the debt in their failing day-
the streets in a city full of lights.
time career.
All these things I love, but most
Nope! These
of all - I pray - that my ears will
DJs
encounter great music that
creative
drives
popular music with unheard
me
to
the
dance-
select
tracks
precision,
floor and elevates my soul. I
remixes
genuinely hope I will be amazed.
mix and blend with finesse,
I also know that at some
transition cleanly, beat-match engineer
sic
going
down
There’s the
the
spot,
and
and raise our hands in the air like
tons
mind-bending at
on
DJs make us smile, laugh, cheers,
son. Coachella is in full swing historical,
artists,
execute turtablism with ease. These
Right now, it’s festival seaas I write this.
new
effortlessly, harmonize, sound-
point…I will want to eat cyanide.
of
and
with
balance
mu-
moment.
raving lunatics straight into the next day!
Music
Coordinators have worked tirelessly for over a year to
Whether it’s trance, techno, electro, pop, house, top-
plan these lineups. For the most part, it will all be good. But on my
40, hip-hop, mash-up, rock, reggae, dubstep, or industrial-lounge,
adventures tonight to some of the top clubs in the region, I
it’s all good as long as the composer on stage has thrown ev-
will meet horrendous talent decisions: overall train-wrecking,
ery ounce of their life into orchestrating an angelic night for you
vibe-killing DJs that will make it difficult for us to enjoy our night out.
and me. I encourage you to passionately seek out these DJs and request them without abandon. Believe me, they are out there.
Why? How can this be, that top clubs with alcohol sales hitting six-figures nightly can hire just plain bad music? To answer that
On this note, I’d like to take a moment of silence for a man
question, I must deter for a moment. In live-music like rock, jazz
who exemplifies the DJ. A true artist, innovator, and icon
or hip-hop, there is really no faking. Musicians have to perform
beyond words: DJ AM. Rest in peace, and let DJs that
and deliver good, harmonious, rhythmically consistent sounds to
are still on our Planet Earth strive to live out your dream!
the audience or our ears will know otherwise. If they do this well, and add a good stage presence and captivating persona, they win 14niteguidemag.com niteguidemag.com 48
Twitter me: @johnhelmrich | facebook.com/johndavidhelmrich
niteguidemag.com 49
FEATURED ELECTRONIC DJ International Schedule May 12th Lux / Lisbon / Portugal
By Adéllyn Polomski
May 13th BNR night at Trouw / Amsterdam / Netherland May 14th BNR night at Tivoli / Utrecht / Netherland May 20th BNR night at Fabric / London / UK May 28th Europavox / Clermont / France June 1st BNR night / Milano June 2nd Venice June 3rd Flex / Vienna June 4th Dakar Festival / Stockholm / Sweden June 5th Melt! Picknick / Ferropolis / Germany June 11th Parklife Festival / Manchester / UK June 12th Rockness Festival / Scotland / UK June 17th Sonar Festival / Barcelona / Spain June 18th Sonar Festival / La Coruna / Spain July 1st St Gallen Festival / Switzerland July 2nd Les Eurockeenes de Belfort / France July 9th Alive Festival / Lisbon / Portugal July 15th Melt! Festival / Ferropolis / Germany July 16th Sea of Love festival / Freiburg / Germany July 23rd Monegros festival / Spain July 29th Global Gathering Festival / UK July 30th Juicy beats festival / Dortmund / Germany
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Photo by Getty Images/Michael Tullberg | Coachella 2011
G
ermany has produced many prolific electronic dance music (EDM) producers including Kraftwerk, Sven Väth, ATB and more. Dominating the current dance music scene is Boys Noize a.k.a. Alex Ridha. His talent speaks for itself, as evidenced by his 2010 Independent Music Award, as well as three consecutive awards for Best Electronic Artist on Beatport. Beyond that, Boyz Noize is noted for the support he provides his peers, as well as for the respect they give him in return. Currently residing in Berlin, Germany, Boys Noize got his start through the “traditional” gig as a warm-up DJ (someone who DJs before the ‘bigger’ DJ at an event.) As an avid record collector, Boys Noize studied his craft for many years as a music enthusiast, DJ and then eventually as a producer. After releasing a few successful indie-dance remixes of Bloc Party and the Kaiser Cheifs, he released his first album “Oi Oi Oi” in 2007. Boys Noize burst onto many people’s radar with his unique style of heavy bass distortion that was simultaneously melodic. His most famous hit off of this album was his remix of “My Moon My Man” by Feist; arguably more popular than the original. Even Germany’s Chancellor Angela Merkel is reported to be a fan of the song. Boys Noize’s live sets win over anyone who watches his charismatic mixing prowess and ability to connect with the crowd without being corny. Releasing his sophomore album, “Power”, in 2009 Boys Noize showed a more restrained side to his production skills with massive hits like “Come with Me” and “Jeffer”. Boys Noize also has the respect and support
from his peers. This has been most notable through his collaborations with Erol Alkan. The pair has successfully released club hits “Death Suite” and “Waves”. They continue to collaborate- much to everyone’s delight. In this nature of brotherhood, many DJs open up their own labels, such as Boys Noize who has created Boys Noize Records (BNR). When he hears talent that he wants to support, BNR brings them into the family, very similar to the Hip Hop world (i.e. Yung Money). Many of the artists on the BNR label are of the same musical vein as Boys Noize. Some artists in the BNR crew include Housemeister, D.I.M., Djedjotronic, Strip Steve, Chilly Gonzalez, and more. A notable success for the BNR family came in 2010 when Chilly Gonzalez’s track “Never Stop” was featured in the ipad ad campaign. In 2010, BNR hosted their own stage at the Berlin Festival (which was actually cancelled due to crowd concerns and later rescheduled to a club) and at Pukkelpop festival in Belgium. If you enjoy the indie-dance remix vibe then chances are that Boys Noize is right up your street. Please check out his and BNR’s releases and, if he is playing out near to you, go and have a dance! Boys Noize Myspace – www.myspace.com/boysnoize Boys Noize Records – www.boysnoize.com/ www.soundcloud.com/boysnoizerecords
ELECTRONIC SCENE Fresh Anniversary Pomona Fox Theatre [Pomona]
Story by Fred Dyoll | Photography by Plurlife | Chipmunk | Kiwi On the weekend of `April 1st and 2nd, 2011, The Pomona Fox Theatre was packed with EDM fans ready to celebrate the 6th annual “Fresh Anniversary.” This event is thrown every year to celebrate the anniversary of the “Fresh Movement” in Southern California, but more importantly to celebrate the advancement of Southern California’s Electronic Dance Music scene as a whole! “The past six years have been an incredible journey for all of us here at Fresh Entertainment, and this event is our way of saying thank you to each and every one of you for all of your overwhelming love and support.” says the Fresh Team. This two day event brought eight hours of non-stop movin’ and funky-fresh groovin’. The line-up consisted of World-Class DJ’s playing on Spring-Themed Stages that enhanced the light and care-free feel of the party. A dazzling laser light show and huge spring-themed props and decorations added to the fresh vibe. Over a dozen artists performed, including B-Rich, DBSTF, Space Rockers, and Dub Foundation. With plenty of free parking, and a bar for 21+ patrons, the event offered a good time and great music for all who attended!
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APRIL IN REVIEW: FEATURED EVENTS DJs For Japan
Vanguard [Hollywood] Story by Fred Dyoll | Photography by Charles Street On June 7th the DJ’s For Japan Disaster Relief Benefit took place at The Vanguard in Hollywood, with eleven great DJ’s and various artists performing for an important cause. The Vanguard-Hollywood-served as the perfect venue, unfolding over 20,000 square feet and fully equipped with a U.K. Funktion One Sound System. People were grooving on the cherry wood floor and the dramatic decor created the perfect vibe for the benefit. Three rooms of music and amazing go-go dancers helped spread out the sounds by David Delano, Icy Ice, GRoy, Serafin and DMorse to name a handful. The wide expanse of electronic music only added to the nights diversity and good times. Also adding to the nights allure were over ten art shows highlighting the work of J Sapp, Armando Soria, and VS. By 11:00 p.m., the night was in full swing. The beats were amazing, and the people were happily partying for a great cause. The mixed-media events’ proceeds went to the victims of the tragic tsunami and earthquakes that struck Japan, via the Red Cross. All those involved were grateful to come together to raise money for the heart -breaking disaster. The event couldn’t have taken place without the help of the sponsors, including Yourticketdoctor.com, RJ Spinher, Buz Artist, Analigital, and so many more. Also performing was the break dancing crew Gr818ers and Friends, along with the following DJ’s: Sanjay, Al Squared, Diesel, Angel Vittore, Dean Mason and Modern Romance. They all came together for a good cause and put the party through the roof!
DJ ReFlex’s 30th Birthday Sutra [Costa Mesa]
Story by Kam Kasmaei | Photography by Brian Brown
Located in the heart of Newport Beach, Sutra has been one of the most successful venues in Orange County with a long standing reputation and friendly service inside. Since its inception, it has been host to many artists both performing and attending its events. With The Far East Movement,
The Social Group along with Ricky Rick Productions, BPM Entertainment,
great beats, and Asahi beer all night long, we look forward to more events
and Mak Entertainment groups took over Sutra on April 1. The affair was
like this in the future!
the launch of Unrivaled Fridays, a rotation of all the Unrivaled DJs and today’s top POP performers. This event’s guest of honor was DJ Reflex who was celebrating his 30th birthday. DJ Reflex is one of the most influential players in the LA music scene as a tastemaker DJ, producer, and entertainment entrepreneur. Credited for breaking acts including Kanye West, Lady Gaga, and John Legend, he has made a name for himself not only as an accomplished celebrity DJ, but as a businessman with an undeniable ear for talent. When he is not DJing exclusive engagements for the likes of Beyonce and Tom Cruise, you can find him performing countless sold-out shows and various residencies. He’s often behind-the-scenes, and consults as an in-studio creative director for musical heavyweights like Kanye West and Common. Southern California electro pop group Far East Movement also performed, and lit up the crowd with their hits. In addition to the unbelievable music, Asahi was also on hand to ensure everyone was having a great time. Bringing in their own go-go dancers and ensuring buckets of Asahi were available all night long, the brands presence at the show was definitely a positive one. 52 niteguidemag.com
Care For The Poor Fundraiser Matador Cantina [Fullerton]
Story by Kam Kasmaei | Photography by Charles Street
mium Tequilas. Century-old brick walls, intimate booths, and the longest bar in the city at 55 feet, further define the venue’s charm and unique character. For reservations and info call 714.871.8226 or visit www.thematador.com
Fullerton, CA. (April 6, 2011) – Matador Cantina was pleased to hold its two year anniversary celebration Wednesday, April 6 with food and drink specials, giveaways and live entertainment. Since opening its doors, Matador Cantina has been recognized for its fresh Mexican cuisine, and award-winning handcrafted margaritas, and cocktails. Some of its honors include being voted among the best Mexican restaurants in Orange County by My Fox LA, Best Happy Hour, and Best Margarita by OC Weekly, and Best Bloody Mary by the OC Register. To show its gratitude, and in an effort to give back to the community, Matador Cantina donated 15 percent of the night’s proceeds to St. Jude’s Medical Center’s Care for the Poor Foundation. “We are grateful that we have been so warmly embraced by the community, and we are delighted to be able to give back in this way,” said Executive Chef and General Manager David Dennis. The event featured live entertainment with Mariachis and special guest, DJ Fat Beats. Guests also had a chance to win several great prizes, including a flat screen TV, T-shirts, hats, and other giveaways. Matador Cantina offers guests an extraordinary dining experience with its contemporary Mexican fusion, handcrafted cocktails, and vast selection of pre-
Lost In Wonderland 8Eighty8 [Newport Beach]
Story by Kam Kasmaei | Photography by Theresa Lomavaya Paul Mitchell The School and world renowned organizations came together Sunday April 10th for a very special event “Lost in Wonderland.” The event, which was affectionately nicknamed a FUNraising Fashion Show, took place at 8Eighty8 in Newport Beach and was hosted by the hottest young designers and models. Paul Mitchell students and fashion enthusiasts joined to rock the runway and dance the night away all for a great cause. “Lost in Wonderland” proceeds benefited the Andrew Gomez Dream Foundation, Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, Morris Animal Foundation, Food 4 Africa, Cancer Schmancer, The Leeza Gibbons Memory Foundation, and the Children’s Miracle Network. The affair featured a vibrant fashion show, while Paul Mitchell students did live hair styling as the crowd watched. Established 30 years ago, the Paul Mitchell network is nearly 100,000 salons strong and in 81 countries worldwide. Every professional hairdresser knows the Paul Mitchell name. Now, with the arrival of Paul Mitchell beauty schools, they’ve taken the world of cosmetology education by storm. With more to come in the future, Paul Mitchell has undoubtedly reasserted its place in the Orange County night life. The Paul Mitchell School is located in the heart of Orange County in the city of Costa Mesa, a Mecca for people who love sun, fun, and the good life. The school is just a bike ride away from South Coast Plaza,Newport Beach, and the University of California Irvine.
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MYCLUBSCENE.COM 2 YE Story by Emmanuel Cayanan | Photography by Brian Brown, Doug Hac & Shannon Nehls
It was 2009 when a young entrepreneur and his staff issued a press release announcing the launch of a website that would eventually link up all players in the nightlife industry.. Starting as an online directory listing all of the hottest venues and events in Orange County and Long Beach, MyClubScene.com has expanded nationwide. The site thrives on the success of its social media component where users can interact, invite each other out, and upload photos of their nightlife adventures. With thousands of users logging onto MCS regularly, what better way to celebrate two years of growth and success than with two anniversary parties at high-profile venues in the website’s hometown, Orange County? The two-part festivities began at a familiar venue for MCS users and OC club-goers on Friday April 22nd. 8Eighty8 in Newport Beach is one of Orange County’s most popular late-night destinations and is located near John Wayne Airport. Party seekers filled every inch of the luxurious and modern LA-style nightclub. From the roped-off VIP areas, to the bar, and to the dance floor, scores of ladies in their sexy dresses made their way about the crowd, many of whom donned a variety of animal prints, a sign of the impending summer season. The real stars of the evening were the handful of contestants in the MyClubScene Go-Go Contest. In search of the top Go-Go in SoCal, presented by Asahi Beer, the contestants battled each other in three elimination rounds. Under the mercy of crowd response, Michelle Carro took home the third prize of $250, and Danielle Wayt took home $500 as the runner up. First place winner Elyse Jordan fanned herself on stage with her $1,000 cash winnings after the final showdown. Elyse, who won the crowd over with her pink and black bikini ensemble, ripped-up fishnet stockings and feverish hair whipping, plans to spend the prize on a vacation and bills.
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EAR ANNIVERSARY PARTY
After an epic night in Newport, MCS geared up for an encore celebration a week later at Heat Ultra Lounge. Open Thursday through Sunday and located inside the Garden Walk of Anaheim, Heat has become one of Orange County’s hottest spots in the club scene, hosting some of the top DJs and boasting a luxurious décor. Heat attracts thousands of OC club-goers to its 10,000-square-foot venue every week, and the MCS anniversary celebration drew a long line to Heat’s front door. Guests downed shots and cheered on another set of MCS Go-Go contestants. Franchesca Del Carpio took home the third prize of $250, Sophie Jo took home $500 as the runner up. First place winner Tina Grettenberger did the victory dance on stage with her $1,000 cash winnings. Videographers, photographers and camera phones captured every moment, and it wasn’t long before evidence of the night’s mayhem was uploaded to MyClubScene.com. Other sponsors of both events include Pink Kitty, Electric Beach Tanning, Commonwealth Lounge, K1 Speed, Ten Restaurant Group, and Kush Cakes. For up-to-date information on the hottest events in your area, create your profile on MyClubScene.com.
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Belve Music Lounge
Bermuda Dunes [California] Story by John Helmrich | Photography by Brian Brown On Coachella Weekend, it’s not only the festival grounds in Coachella Valley that get turned into a musical wonderland - it’s literally the whole valley. Lavish parties, blaring speakers and hordes of the hottest music lovers flock to take over every nook and cranny: from the golf courses to the airport to - our favorite - the mansions. Sprawling estates all over the valley get invaded for several days and transformed into luxurious escapes. And none better than the Belve Music Lounge, procured by Belvedere Vodka. This VIP invite-only affair was truly a spectacle of Coachella. The party was filled with a fine mix of young Hollywood hipsters, swimsuit models, and music industry aficionados. Party goers spent their three day weekend laid out poolside sipping a variety of Belvedere cocktails from the host bar; namely nursing hangovers from the night before with the newly launched Belvedere Bloody Mary. After a quick revive, party-goers had the option to play superstar in the Belve photo-booth, take a jump in one of the several pools, or dance the day away to the hottest dj’s and eclectic acts around. Through day and early evening, music bumped by Chad Hugo of The Neptunes, Theophilus London, Blaqstarr, and Treasure Fingers; while Crystal Method and DJ Joel Madden closed the nights. We also spotted a few other familiar faces throughout the weekend: Miguel Migs stopped by and hung out in the gifting suite, Brittany Snow showed up with her hot new beau, and Rosario Dawson posed in front of the camera with her girlfriends while trying on Luxottica sunglasses. We can’t wait to see what Belve brings back next year!
Photography Courtesy of Brian Brown & Shannon Nehls
Coachella Indio, Ca
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HOROSCOPE
Taurus | April 20- May 20 By Kristin Halberg
Happy Birthday Taurus! 2011 is bringing in new cheer for you. As your confidence soars, you explore new endeavors easily. You have been in your comfort zone too long Taurus, you recognize the need for change, and most importantly, you embrace it!! With six planets aligning right around your birthday, things are only looking up- and after such a long dry spell, you deserve it. As energy increases, so does your creativity. Everything is changing this year, and it’s all for the better. Happy Birthday indeed! Romance: You have had some intense troubles for a while now, and with love you are ready for a serious change. It is your turn now, Taurus, for some romantic happiness. Are you ready? This month you will feel at your best for 2011. Take advantage of this- it’s all about you anyway, right? If commitment is what you’re looking for, look for it at summers end. Pull the trigger on your relationship. It’s the perfect time to take this chance. Put career to the side as you explore your newfound romantic accomplishments. It will always be there, but this is once in a blue moon! Career: Your renaissance of life will be pivotal to that promotion you’ve been looking for at the end of the year. Always remember that the squeaky wheel gets the grease, taking your confidence to the next level at work. At summers end, you may have to take a few steps back from your current position, but the learning experience gained from it will be invaluable. Take it in stride Taurus, because you’re in for a great year! Lucky Days: 6, 15, 24 (And if these days happen to fall on a Friday or a Monday, you’re in for a real treat!!)
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420 & The launch of kush cakes House of Blues [Hollywood]
Story by Kam Kasmaei | Photography by Theresa Lomavaya April 20th was the perfect day for Kush Cakes to launch their new product to the public, and what better venue than the House of Blues in Hollywood. This 420 event was packed all night as people from all over Southern California came to take part in the 420 festivities, put on by AcropolisRPM. Several recording artists performed, including: Propaganja, True Press, NaturalHeights, Sum-in-1, New Roots Society, DJ Kamoflage, Sinizen and Badfish. “Badfish: A Tribute to Sublime� is a tribute band dedicated to playing the music of Sublime. The group is named after a song appearing on the album 40oz. to Freedom. Sinizen, with their own mix of reggae-dub-rock-hiphop-latin, followed after with the ever-so-smooth sax tone from Jorge Guzman, the eclectic jazz drumming of Mike Manning and the unique guitar and voice by K9. The event was to celebrate 420, but to also celebrate the launch of Kush Cakes, the 100 percent legal relaxation brownie that will melt in your mouth. These little brownies are baked with love and a proprietary blend of all natural ingredients, featuring Melatonin and Valerian root as the key active ingredients. These are 100 percent legal and have no THC or Marijuana in them. You can buy your batch at www.Kush-Cakes.com and have them shipped right to your front step.
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