Summer Getaways | Vegas Seven Magazine | May 12-18, 2016 by Vegas Seven

Seventh Annual

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$35 in advance $40 day of (if available) / $75 VIP TICKETS ARE LIMITED. Buy in advance. Visit VEGASBREWSANDBLUES.org for more information.

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CONTENTS

MAY 12–18, 2016

T H E LAT EST

“Beat the Traffic Blues” Project Neon got you down? NDOT has solutions to ease the pain. By EMMILY BRISTOL

“Betting on Locals” Boyd’s recent acquisitions and Red Rock Resorts’ IPO show confidence in gaming sector. Green Felt Journal by DAVID G. SCHWARTZ

Plus … A preview of Helldorado Days, a Q&A with new Rebel recruit Ben Coupet, Style, Seven Days, Ask a Native and The Deal.

NIGH T LIF E

“A Package Deal” Why can’t Lil Dicky dominate rap music and comedy? By CAMILLE CANNON

Plus … Seven Nights, a Q&A with Leon Rolle of Rudimental, a preview of Jewel in Aria and photos from the week’s hottest parties.

DINING

“Not Yet Rockin’” The Park’s anchoring sushi spot, Sake Rok, needs some fine-tuning. By AL MANCINI

Plus … The Brombergs expand to Miami and revamp their Cosmopolitan concept, Dishing With Grace and a look back at Further Future.

“This Kid’s Gonna Go Far” Eight-year-old Las Vegan Christopher Convery is filling some big shoes in Kinky Boots on Broadway. By KAYLA DEAN

FE AT URE

“Call of Nature”

“Harley’s on Fire” Woodworker, Harley Quinn cosplayer— what’s not to love about Solomon McRann? The Most Fabulous Thing by CHARLIE STARLING

The National Park Service celebrates its 100th birthday. Go out there and explore.

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Plus … Seven’s 14, a preview of movies in the great outdoors and how Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt is doubling down on its absurdist premise.

Grand Canyon National Park surpassed 5 million annual visitors for the first time in 2015.

SEVEN Q U EST IONS

By HUBBLE RAY SMITH

Plus … Four summer getaways, and tips from a flight attendant. Cover photo by Jonathan Irish.

Chopped judge Chris Santos on his Cosmopolitan restaurant Beauty & Essex, ingredients you won’t find in his cupboard and music.

May 12–18, 2016

PHOTO BY GALYNA ANDRUSHKO

A &E

L AS VEGAS’ WEEKLY CITY MAGAZINE

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EDITORIAL Nicole Ely Genevie Durano SENIOR EDITORS Paul Szydelko, Xania Woodman SENIOR EDITOR, A&E Geoff Carter ASSOCIATE EDITOR Hubble Ray Smith SENIOR WRITER Lissa Townsend Rodgers STAFF WRITER Emmily Bristol CALENDAR COORDINATOR Ian Caramanzana EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

MANAGING EDITOR

SENIOR CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Melinda Sheckells (style)

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Michael Green (politics), Al Mancini (dining), David G. Schwartz (gaming/hospitality)

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J A M E S P. R E Z A

➜ NOT MUCH REMAINS

of Las Vegas’ frontier roots, so it’s appropriate to remember our Wild West past with Helldorado Days, a Western-themed celebration that runs May 13-15 with events Downtown and on the Strip. Helldorado Days started in 1934 and was a source of community pride and inspiration for decades, providing longtime residents and newcomers with an opportunity to look back on the city’s history. This year promises to be better than ever as Elks Lodge No. 1468 has teamed with the Professional Bull Riders to add its “Last Cowboy Standing” competition to the schedule of events. PBR performances will be held at Western Village Arena, a new venue across from the Luxor. That’s also the location for the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association, carnival, live music, exhibits and food vendors. The “Mutton Bustin” sheep-riding competition for kids is always a hoot. Ancillary events such as the Helldorado parade, Whiskerino beard-growing contest and pub crawl are scheduled for Downtown. The parade starts at 10 a.m. May 14 on Fourth Street, proceeding from Gass Avenue to Ogden Av-

Coin-op Slots, Revisited

enue. It features 114 entries, including eight local high school marching bands, floats and community groups. Students are wrapping up their school year, which means they’re probably too busy to think about a parade, so the Las Vegas Centennial Commission offered $1,000 for participating marching bands and $1,500 for floats built by the high schools. “It was a great incentive. They’re always looking for ways to raise money,” says Esther Carter, parade director and City of Las Vegas employee. “It also gave them an opportunity to get some history. Some of them don’t even know what Helldorado means to the community.” We won’t get to see the “hoochie coochie dance” that was part of the early Helldorado Days, but the Hill Country Plungettes may be the next best

My recent column about where to play coin-in/coin-out slot machines elicited several responses, notably via Twitter from @VitalVegas, who pointed out that the “classic” slots at The D were no longer coin-op. Instead, 850 ticket-in, ticket-out slots rescued from the Riviera slowly made their way upstairs to The D’s “Vintage Vegas” floor, replacing the casino’s last coin slots (except Sigma Derby) in August. But fear not, dirtyhand fans! Another Downtown casino wrote to say, “Hey, what about us?!” Evidently, just a skip west of The D at the Plaza sit 40 full coin-op slot machines just waiting for you to drop in and yank the handle. Know of any others? Send ’em along! The Native Asks You …

Helldorado Days parade (top) and returning Whiskerino competitor, Kevin Riorden.

thing. These senior ladies from Texas are “hysterical” as they march and dance with toiletbowl plungers, Carter says. –Hubble Ray Smith For events and ticket information, visit ElksHelldorado.com.

THREE QUESTIONS WITH BEN COUPET

soon as UNLV offered, a lot of other schools did right after.

If we’ve learned anything about new UNLV coach Marvin

a chance on me. That showed me a lot.

Menzies, it’s that he works fast. The first-year Rebels

What kind of player are you? My game is a lot of versatil-

coach nabbed another recruit May 9 when Class of 2016

ity. I can handle the ball, shoot the 3, stretch the defense. I

forward Ben Coupet committed. RunRebs talks to the

can play defense as well. I’m a good defender—that’s what

6-foot-7 Chicago native about why he believes UNLV is

I really take pride in. I like getting into my guy and eliminat-

the right fit. –Mike Grimala

ing him and keeping him from the bucket. I bring a lot to the

But UNLV told me I was the guy they wanted, and they took

How did UNLV make such

table that can help a team

a big impression on you?

win, and that’s what I’m

I saw the campus, met

looking to do at UNLV.

with a couple of guys on

Where have you made the

the team, met with the coaching staff. I met with the head

greatest improvements in your game? Just my work ethic.

coach one-on-one, and we had a nice talk. When I talked

Coming into the gym every day and putting in a lot of work

to all the coaches and saw everything UNLV had to offer,

to get to a high level. I’m working to have a high motor

my heart told me that’s where I needed to be. I had a lot of

consistently, all the time.

schools calling, but none took the opportunity to offer me or bring me in for visits or anything like that. And then as

The question posed last week— “What affable Las Vegas mayor was part owner of a popular cookie bakery at the Meadows Mall?”—was quickly disposed of via Twitter by @LasVegas360. The answer is Bill Briare, a three-term mayor (1975-1987) whom the Las Vegas Sun described as “a champion of Las Vegas” and “one of the most popular mayors in Las Vegas’ history.” Along with his daughter, Linda, Briare owned the Cookie Chef, a bakery located “next to Sears ... lower level” that opened with the city’s then go-to mall in 1978. The cookies were huge and baked fresh all day, pushing an irresistible scent throughout the place. While a Facebook page dedicated to the Cookie Chef suggests chocolate chip was the most popular, nothing was better than catching a batch of peanut butter cookies emerging hot and gooey from the oven.

To read the full interview, see RunRebs.com/BenCoupet.

Q: What popular 1990s happy hour spot was located in Downtown’s Bank of America building? Think you know the answer? Tweet it to @authenticvegas.

HELLDORADO DAYS PHOTOS COURTESY

THE LATEST VegasSeven.com

| May 12–18, 2016

Yeehaw! Helldorado Rides Into Town

THE LATEST

STYLE

Charlotte Voisey, 38 Director of brand advocacy, William Grant & Sons USA

Working in spirits, is there a certain “uniform” you tend to stick to when representing your brands? I dress to reflect the

tone and heritage of the brand. Some brands have colors I like to stick to—[for example] orange and gray for Reyka Vodka. Some brands might target a slightly different audience. Monkey Shoulder, a malt blended Scotch Whisky, is all about bartenders, so when I am representing I dress slightly more casual. If I am bartending, I stick to flat shoes and “workable wear” that still looks stylish. My go-to here would be a black dress and flats. It’s comfortable enough for me to shake drinks in. Which one of your brands reflects your personal style the most? Hendrick’s Gin. It is

quintessentially British, as am I. It is also the brand I started on, the brand I most connect with in terms of look and feel of the packaging, the taste profile—delicate and floral—and the style of events we do. I enjoy dipping into vintage outfits, too, which is a perfect fit for Hendrick’s. You’ve worked all over the world. What makes the Las Vegas mixology scene special? There is a sense of magic in

Las Vegas, and the beautifully creative cocktail style reflects that. Leaders such as Tony Abou-Ganim have made this a very special place to get a cocktail. Where would you take your boss to drink in Las Vegas? Herbs & Rye, or I would go

and see Darren West, master mixologist at Jean Georges.

May 12–18, 2016

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Brand Ambassador at Tales of the Cocktail Spirited Awards in 2010. After bartending, I switched gears in 2006 and adopted a new path as an ambassador. This award acknowledged that I “made it” in my new field, given by my mentors and peers. Their support means the world to me. Lastly, it was an award I was able to share with my colleagues at William Grant & Sons.

What is one piece of advice you give to young bartenders? Find a mentor and Zara dress and Vince Camuto shoes.

study how they approach their work. Never lose the joy in giving great hospitality. –Liz Powell

PHOTO BY KRYSTAL RAMIREZ

You’ve won many awards. Which one are you most proud of? Best American

➜ San Francisco is steeped in history and culture. From the architecture on the streets to the art in the museums, to restaurants and bars that retain their vintage luster, it’s a city that’s a feast for the senses. The Royal Pacific Motor Inn is a big box of mid-century Googie in the center of Chinatown and provides that holy grail of San Francisco accommodations: free parking. The Hotel Bijou is centrally located near Union Square: Each room is named after a film shot in the city, from Vertigo to Harold and Maude to, um, Copycat. The Inn at the Presidio offers a more relaxed setting amid the forests of the Presidio National Park. There’s plenty of hiking, biking, restaurants and several museums onsite.

WHERE TO STAY

Historic John’s Grill is a throwback steakhouse and former hangout of Dashiell Hammett, whose favorite lamb chops are still on the menu—there’s even a Maltese Falcon upstairs. Le Colonial is located in what used to be Trader Vic’s—slip down an alley, ascend the stairs and cross a skylit gallery to the highceilinged dining room. The menu gives a Vietnamese twist to French classics such as curry-broth bouillabaisse and kaffir lime crème brûlée. Molonari Delicatessen is an old world Italian deli that’s been serving fresh sandwiches with house-cured meats for over a century, while Naked Lunch is a bustling bar/restaurant with more modern options such as fried green tomato or foie gras.

DENALI NATIONAL PARK BY DAN KOSMAYER; SAN FRANCISCO BALLET BY ERIK TOMASSON

WHERE TO EAT

San Francisco Ballet’s Onegin.

Li Po Cocktail Lounge in Chinatown is a dimly lit haven of decaying ’40s Orientalia—murals, lanterns, altars—with friendly bartenders and delicious mai tais. The Buddha Lounge across the street—look for the bottle-shaped doorway—is a slightly deeper dive, but likewise cheap and welcoming. If you prefer your exotica more upscale, the Fairmont Hotel’s Tonga Room & Hurricane Bar has been serving tropical cocktails since 1945. DON’T MISS

Travel Like a Pro Practical tips from a flight attendant By S O N I B R OW N

➜ Changes in air travel amenities

don’t mean that your trip has to be less enjoyable. Here are some tips for a better experience from someone who flies for a living. See you in the air. Denali National Park.

ALASKA: The Last Frontier

By Emmily Bristol

➜ If all you know about Alaska is from reruns of Northern Exposure, what you may not know is that it offers topshelf, locally sourced cuisine and brewed beers, a vibrant art scene and a state identity built on rugged individualism. Anchorage, the state’s largest city, has plenty to keep you busy. First Friday showcases blocks of downtown art galleries, live music and food trucks. Thanks to the midnight sun, you can be sipping an Alaskan Brewing Co. Summer Ale without even noticing the time as you’re bobbing in and out of galleries and shops, including Her Tern women’s clothing boutique, Octopus Ink Gallery and Alaska Native Arts Foundation. There are plenty of places to eat as you go, including Glacier Brewhouse or martini happy hour specials at Sullivan’s Steakhouse in the Anchorage 5th Avenue Mall. The longest day of the year, the Summer Solstice on June 20, means the sun only dips below the horizon for about five hours, yielding a kind of dusky twilight, not pitch-black darkness. So don’t be surprised if you’re still going strong long past your usual bedtime. Expect to pay about $450-$550 roundtrip. It’s hard to find nonstop flights from Las Vegas (try Alaska Airlines), so plan on a layover in Seattle, Portland or Salt Lake City. You can save on airfare by booking each leg separately—to Seattle (from $69 on Southwest Airlines) and then to Anchorage (from $79 on JetBlue). HOW TO GET THERE

Hotel Captain Cook and Embassy Suites by Hilton Anchorage are both downtown. WHERE TO STAY

Moose’s Tooth Pub & Pizzeria at 3300 Old Seward Highway is a locals favorite. A great breakfast and lunch spot is Snow City Café, which slings all the conventional hash and eggs as well as local delights such as reindeer sausage, vegan fare and locally roasted coffee. For upscale fish and seafood, head to Simon & Seafort’s. WHERE TO EAT

The Tony Knowles Coastal Trail in Anchorage, an easy 11-mile coastal excursion (bicycle rentals available), offers spectacular views. About a 15-mile drive outside of Anchorage is Flattop Mountain in Chugach State Park, a kid-friendly, one-hour hike. Popular day trips from Anchorage include Portage Glacier (55 miles away) and Seward (126 miles away). If you have the time, take the train north to Denali National Park (237 miles away), which really merits an overnight stay (hotels and camping available). Another day trip is to the Matanuska-Susitna Valley, where you can see Matanuska glacier and pan for gold at Independence Mine in Hatcher’s Pass, near Wasilla.

WHAT TO DO

Flight attendants love treats. A bag of quality chocolate ensures you’ll be treated special. From comped beverages to pillows, better seats or even first-class meals, this small gesture pays off big-time. Take an empty bottle through TSA and fill up at the filtered water station nearby and avoid paying $2-$6 for water. Use the airplane bathroom on your left. Flight attendants steer people to the one on the right, leaving the left cleaner and less funky. Avoid fees by declaring Fido an “emotional support animal.” It’s very hard to prove otherwise. Gate agents can only take your word for it, but check with the airline first. An in-flight cocktail hurts your body as hard as two or three drinks on the ground. Chase it with water and pace yourself. Federal regulations say you cannot consume your own alcohol on board. That being said, I cannot tell if that is coffee in your mug or a gin and tonic. Use a foreign carrier for international flights. There is less nickel-and-diming. Plus, there are better bag allowances, free booze and amenities for children. It’s colder at exit rows, so wear a cardigan or a hoodie. Wear it backward so you can pull it off without hitting your neighbors. If you’re traveling as a couple, sit at the window and aisle in a row for open-seating flights. People avoid the middle seat, giving you the row to yourself.

VegasSeven.com

By Lissa Townsend Rodgers

Where the Beats Live On

The Civic Center hosts the San Francisco Symphony, the San Francisco Opera and the San Francisco Ballet. The country’s oldest ballet company features world-class dancers and lavish staging—recent performances include a lighthearted Coppélia and a dramatic rendition of Onegin that had the audience in tears and on their feet. Another cluster of culture is Golden Gate Park, with the de Young Museum, the California Academy of Sciences, the Japanese Tea Garden, Shakespeare Garden and a number of other attractions. Downtown, the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art reopens this month after a two-year, $300 million expansion near the Contemporary Jewish Museum and the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts. San Francisco is also known for its connection to the Beats. Jack Kerouac’s hangout, the Vesuvio Cafe, is still pouring beers for floppy-haired poets. Down the block, the City Lights Booksellers & Publishers is jam-packed with books and open until midnight—whatever your obsession, you’re sure to find at least one volume about it that you simply must have. WHAT TO DO

May 12–18, 2016

SAN FRANCISCO:

NIGHTLIFE Your city after dark, photos from the week’s hottest parties and Rudimental’s awakening

A Package Deal Why can’t Lil Dicky dominate rap music and comedy? By Camille Cannon ➜ LIL DICKY is a rapper who’s collaborated

with Mystikal, T-Pain and Snoop Dogg, but 28-year-old David Burd says he is “just a funny guy.” The former advertising account manager grew up loving hip-hop and humor, and in 2014 fused the two into a new career. His flow is sharp and his lyrics— from his self-deprecation on viral breakout “Ex-Boyfriend” to the unapologetic economizing of Billboard Hot 100 hit “$ave Dat Money”—flip mainstream rap braggadocio on its chain-laden head. Lil Dicky has carved a musical niche wide enough to earn a headlining performance at Drai’s Nightsplash on May 17, but he’s also determined to be the next Larry David.

Performing at a Las Vegas nightclub is a very “rapper-y” thing to do right now. Did it feel like that when you were approached with the opportunity?

Yeah, and I was just saying this the other day, my whole life, I did not expect to be a rapper. This is a new development. I don’t consider myself a rapper. But recently, I feel more like a rapper than ever.

Truthfully, the conversation would be very simple. The 28-year-old me would say to

| May 12–18, 2016

If you could describe your current success to your 23-year-old self, how would he respond?

VegasSeven.com

How so?

By being around other rappers. The other day I met Busta Rhymes. I feel a certain way about myself when it comes to being an important rapper, when it’s all said and done, but I know that you have to feel that way. And I’ve always felt that way. Even when it wasn’t justified. But you know it’s gonna take other people to believe it, too. Other people who matter. Busta Rhymes told me he hasn’t been this concerned with other rappers in the last 10 years. “Maybe Kendrick,” he said. One of the best rappers ever is saying this to me and I’m like, “Oh, this is totally a real thing.” When moments like that happen, it’s entirely validating.

NIGHTLIFE

the 23-year-old me, “Just so you know, you’re completely right and justified in your beliefs.” And the 23-year-old would say, “Yeah, I thought so. That’s why I’m doing it.” Honestly. It’s been successful, but it’s totally what I was expecting. People ask me all the time, “Are you surprised by success?” and I genuinely am not. It sounds arrogant, but I wouldn’t be doing it if I didn’t believe in my trajectory. What’s your end goal?

I wouldn’t say there’s an end goal. Rap is never going to go away [for me]. I mean, I guess it will when I’m like, 50. But there are other goals. I’m working on a TV show. I’d love to have a sitcom. I’d love to be in movies. I’d love to do stand-up. When I started rapping, those were my only goals. Now I feel like I have a legacy to fulfill as a rapper that I’ll never let go of. So I have two end goals: to be a very respected rapper and to be a very respected comedian. Who are some comedians you admire?

Larry David and Will Smith are the top two. I love Curb Your Enthusiasm. I realized that I’m like [the fictionalized Larry David] as a person. He’s a version of what I aspire to be. And Will Smith [epitomized] “cool” for me as a child. I wonder if I’d be a rapper if Will Smith didn’t exist, because my definition of cool was exactly what he was. With some creativity and product placement, you actually made money off your “$ave Dat Money” music video. Do you have any money-saving tips for us?

May 12–18, 2016

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I just don’t buy what I don’t need. I’m driving a 2002 Toyota Avalon that my grandfather willed to me when he died. Could I afford another car? Absolutely. But does the car work? Yeah. So I don’t need a new one. The only thing I spend money on at this point is dates. They’re not, like, crazy dates. I just go on a whole bunch of them because I’m a hopeless romantic looking for a wife.

You mentioned in a 2014 interview with Hot 97’s Peter Rosenberg that you don’t feel comfortable hitting on women as “Lil Dicky,” and instead you approach them by asking, “How available are you to being hit on right now?” Is that still true?

Oh, yeah. That line is still going strong. Not enough people know who I am—especially girls—to where I can rely on that. And I’m not gonna be like, “Yo, do you know who I am?” So I’m going to always approach [women] with a line. I don’t think I’m ever going to not use it. Even if I was Matthew McConaughey, I’d still use that line.

NIGHTLIFE

Seven Nights Your week in parties By I A N C A R A M A N Z A N A

banger “Don’t Tell ‘Em.” Rumors are swirling that the R&B great is collaborating with producer, hype man and Internet personality DJ Khaled on a new single. See if he gives us a taste at Drai’s. (In the Cromwell, 10:30 p.m., DraisNightlife.com.)

SAT 14

THU 12 While you’ve been out and about, exploring the latest and greatest in nightlife music and technology, DJ Spair’s been holding it down in a more traditional way: by spinning records. Enter White Label Thursdays, the Sayers Club’s weekly party where vinyl is the name of the game. Spair is known to drop hip-hop classics from the ’80s and ’90s, so don’t be surprised if he mixes De La Soul’s “Me, Myself and I” with TLC’s “Waterfalls.” Tonight, he'll be joined by DJ Aspect. This is a rare instance where getting the spins is not only encouraged, but necessary. (In SLS, 10 p.m., TheSayersClubLV.com.)

SUN 15 The official start of summer remains more than a month away, but at Wet Republic, it’s endless. This week at Endless

Afrojack.

Sundays, the beach-themed party comes complete with a set by superstar DJ Afrojack. He’s taking some time off of the EDM festival circuit to bring his brand of progressive house to the pool. After all, who needs tour dates in Macau, Tomorrowland Brasil or Ultra Music Festival in Miami when you’ve got an industry party with endless

MON 16

May 12–18, 2016

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FRI 13

Give it up to Savi. The L.A./L.V.based producer played a continuous six-hour set at Marquee Dayclub last month. Since we already know he has the endurance to keep the parties raging on, we predict he’ll do the same when he mans the deck at Drai’s Beach Club. Chug a Red Bull and stick around for a set by Jeremy Felton, a.k.a. Jeremih. The Chicago singer dropped Late Nights—a sultry collection of hip-hop and trap-tinged R&B— late last year, and it’s been stuck on our playlists since. Tracks such as the harp-slanging “Oui” and the club-ready DJ Mustard

Champagne in Las Vegas? OK, we’ll admit the other two sound great, but there’s no place like home. If you prefer your parties dry, hit up Hakkasan for a set by banana-wielding Swedish DJ/ producers Dada Life. There’s no water involved in this party, but we’ve heard the parties get messy anyway. (In MGM Grand, 10:30 p.m., HakkasanLV.com.)

Jeremih.

You’ve got a pair of personalized shoes, crafty business cards and an iPhone with your name engraved on it, but do you have a personalized Lamborghini? Jeffery Sutorius—a.k.a. Dash Berlin—does. The Dutch trance producer shared pictures of a strikingly bright yellow Lamborghini with his logo and name emblazoned on the side. We can’t wait to see the aptly dubbed #dashlambo zipping and zooming on the Las Vegas streets soon. Make a dash to Marquee to catch him before he makes a speedy departure in his new whip. Skrrrt! (In the Cosmopolitan, 10 p.m., MarqueeLasVegas.com.)

TUE 17 Take a break from all the big-name DJs on the Strip, because it’s your time to shine. Hit up Oddfellows for the newly announced Karaoke Tuesdays. Down some shots and hit the stage, where you can sing and dance to an ever-growing catalog of songs. We know you’ve been working on nailing the bridge to Drake’s “Hotline Bling,” so now’s your chance to show it off in front of an audience! (150 Las Vegas Blvd. North, 8 p.m., OddfellowsVegas.com.)

WED 18 In case you haven’t heard, Skrillex—a.k.a. Sonny Moore—is on top of the world. The producer, DJ and singer recently delivered backto-back sets at Coachella, and in between the two-weekend affair, managed to hit San Francisco and Las Vegas to deliver another eclectic set full of bass-heavy goodness. Moore recently collaborated with rap stars A$AP Ferg and Vic Mensa on some tracks, so we’ll see if he’s got more to share at Surrender. (In Encore, 10:30 p.m., SurrenderNightclub.com.)

AFROJACK BY FOTOFLOOR; JEREMIH BY AL POWERS/POWERS IMAGERY; SKRILLEX BY JASON NOCITO

Skrillex.

Want some more? Metro Boomin does. The all-star producer from St. Louis hits Light as one of the first few dates in his only club residency. Like a modern-day Tchaikovsky, his dirty Atlanta trap-inspired beats have won over the hearts and ears of some of the hottest artists. We’re sure you’ve heard the tagline-turned-meme: “If Young Metro don’t trust you, I’m gon’ shoot you,” which typically plays before huge drops such as Kanye West’s “Father Stretch My Hands Pt. 1” or Drake and Future’s “Jumpman.” He’s sure to give us a set that will include those and a bunch of others that will leave us wanting even more at Light. (In Mandalay Bay, 10:30 p.m., TheLightVegas.com.)

NIGHTLIFE

Rudimental’s Awakening The foursome fuses unlikely instrument pairings with unbelievable artist collaborations By Kat Boehrer

➜ GLOBETROTTING RUDIMENTAL

Kesi Dryden, Piers Aggett, Leon Rolle and Amir Amor.

consists of four artists from the U.K.: Piers Aggett, Amir Amor, Kesi Dryden and Leon Rolle. Las Vegas fans will get to see them live at The Foundry on May 21, but fans everywhere will be excited to learn about Rudimental’s fusion of Ed Sheeran’s cool vibes and The Game’s charged-up lyricism. Back in 2014, both Sheeran and The Game announced that they had been working together on collaborative tracks. Two years later, the tracks still haven’t officially been released, but from what Rolle tells us, they’re ready to hit the airwaves … or maybe an after-hours DJ set near you. Listening to your music, I would assume your live show would be a DJ set.

Yeah, well that’s the beautiful thing about Rudimental. Our DJ set, we like to make it different. Want to bring that live element as well. We bring our trumpet player who comes into our DJ set. We probably do a lot of after-[DJ] shows after our live sets as well. It’s like we’re a [jack]-of-alltrades type of band. Do you play your own instruments?

We all play our instruments, from keys to guitar, but we also bring on— we don’t like to call them “extra” musicians, because they’re part of the family. We bring a drummer along, we bring vocalists along, because none of us sings—out of the four, that is. We bring some brass as well. That adds another spice into the Rudimental show. That’s pretty much how you could imagine a full live band, full live show; that’s what we bring.

Our studio is basic. We get our instruments out, and we jam. Then we add the electronic process to it. It’s not really high-tech in our studio; it’s just our keyboards and guitars and basses.

May 12–18, 2016

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What’s the goal of Rudimental?

Our goal is not to have a goal. Just to go in there and try to make music as organically as we possibly can, because that’s when I feel like most of our best music comes out, when we don’t get inspired by outside sources or what’s hitting in charts right now. It’s about Rudimental doing what Rudimental tries to do best. You’ve been crossing over from more of a niche electronic fan base to a more mainstream crowd. Is this deliberate?

We don’t plan to make tracks for the mainstream, or the underground

scene. We just try to make music that we’re really happy with. When you come to a Rudimental show, and you look at the audience, it’s not just teenage adults bouncing around. There are teenage adults, there are middleaged people and there’s a more mature crowd. It’s exciting to think that we’re bringing these people together wherever we go in the world. Ed Sheeran, with whom you’ve worked, is such a huge pop star now. How did you end up in the studio with him?

We’ve known Ed for years. He wasn’t as big and famous as he is now. I remember when he was playing at birthday parties just trying to get his name around and get his talent known. It’s good to see him come from where he came from to where he is now, because it’s kind of a similar story to ours. We always knew that at some point we were

going to work together. We’ve been on tour with Ed. That’s how “Bloodstream” and “Lay It All on Me” started. Do you plan to continue collaborating or was that a one-time deal for just those tracks?

We did a session in L.A. with Ed and he called up [rapper] The Game. He told him to come down and write, to join up with us. We’ve got maybe six or seven tracks just sitting in the library with Ed Sheeran and The Game on them.

That’s such an odd pairing.

It’s a weird trio that you would never ever think would get together. Believe me when I say this, these tracks actually really work and they sound different, but yet sort of … oh, what’s the word? [They’re] addictive melodies. The Game kills it, and Ed comes in with his vocals and guitar, and then

we add our Rudimental flavor to it. It’s just beautiful music, and who knows what will happen? They’re literally sitting in a computer. Ed seems chill and sensitive to the public eye, while The Game seems to have a toughguy persona. How was it to work with both personalities in the studio?

Game is actually a sensitive man, and Ed is a tough guy. I reckon Ed would beat up Game in a boxing match. The songs we did together show a deep and insightful side to The Game. Really powerful. Any fun anecdotes from the work sesh?

A little trivia: The Game wrote most of his lyrics on the loo, while we were blasting the instrumental on loop from the main room. I stopped it and heard a voice from the loo saying to put it back on!

PHOTO BY OLLIE GROVE

When you record, do you start with traditional instruments, or do you create the music electronically and then learn to play it on traditional instruments?

NIGHTLIFE

PARTIES

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM JEWEL NIGHTCLUB IN ARIA ➜ Vegas Seven recently got a sneak peek at

The Cromwell [ UPCOMING ]

May 12–18, 2016

VegasSeven.com

May 12 Esco spins May 13 Jeremih performs May 14 Trey Songz performs

See more photos from this gallery at SPYONvegas.com

PHOTOS BY JOE FURY AND THOMAS TRAN

DRAI’S

Jewel nightclub, opening May 19 in Aria. Occupying the former Haze space, Jewel is the latest offering from Hakkasan Group, which took over the venue from Light Group in 2014. The club was already undergoing a remodel that was put on hold during the acquisition, then completely scrapped to make way for a new design by Rockwell Group. Here are a few of our favorite facets of Jewel. General admission space is plentiful. Instead of filling the balcony with tables, upstairs is mostly general admission except for the five VIP suites for large parties and a few tables. Downstairs, the bar area and dance floor are also for non-table guests. There are 50 tables throughout. Those five VIP suites are themed. Each will have its own name and décor such as the Blind Tiger speakeasy; The Studio, featuring vintage album covers; the G.O.A.T., with sports memorabilia; the Champagne-hued Prestige suite; and the Gallery, showcasing fine-art photography. It’s half the size of a megaclub. Jewel can accommodate 1,925 partiers. Comparatively, Hakkasan comes in at 3,000, and Omnia holds 4,300. No expense has been spared. Hakkasan Group will spend the same amount of money per square foot at Jewel as it does on its other venues, and at 24,000 square feet, Jewel is just a fraction of the size of its peers. The lighting display is first-to-market. Digital lighting manufacturer Ayrton conceived the 54 moving panels behind the DJ booth. One side is LED lighting, and the other is an LED screen. It will take a technician three weeks to program prior to opening. The musical direction will be diverse. James Algate, Hakkasan Group vice president of music, says Jewel will have something for all tastes. “We’re booking electronic [dance music] talent as we’ve done at other properties. We’re also booking open-format talent, live performers and celebrity hosts. We want to make sure that we get it right for the hotel and we get it right for the club.” This club will be friendly to Aria hotel guests. “[Aria] didn’t want its customers to disappear every single Friday and Saturday, and that’s what they were witnessing,” Algate says. “They wanted to capture the market they have on premise and give them an amazing nightclub as an amenity.” –Melinda Sheckells

NIGHTLIFE

PARTIES

DAYLIGHT Mandalay Bay [ UPCOMING ]

See more photos from this gallery at SPYONvegas.com

PHOTOS BY JOE FURY

May 12â&#x20AC;&#x201C;18, 2016

VegasSeven.com

May 14 Stafford Brothers spin May 15 Metro Boomin spins May 20 Eric Dlux spins

Not Yet Rockin’

The Park’s anchoring sushi spot needs some fine-tuning By Al Mancini

➜ PEOPLE IN THE RESTAURANT BUSINESS

love so-called “soft” openings: largely unnoticed debuts that allow restaurants to work out the kinks before the critics and the social media-posting masses even realize they’re in business. The eateries of The Park didn’t get that, thanks to all of the hoopla surrounding the debut of MGM’s new outdoor space and the T-Mobile Arena. Sake Rok, which many had pegged as The Park’s culinary cornerstone, clearly could have used one. Sake Rok seems intent on being the most high-energy of the arena’s neighbors. A bar with outdoor access beckons curious passersby. They’re sometimes greeted by a host in kabuki makeup who serves as the evening’s master of ceremonies. And walls are adorned by works from local artists. The first floor is meant to be an interactive experience with a rotation of eclectic performers entertaining among the tables. Guests who don’t want that up-close and personal experience can view the party from the second-story balcony seating. And a patio on the private third-floor event space allows revelers there to take in the spring weather and The Park’s ambience. All of this accentuates the menu, which is packed with hipster-ready sushi and Japanese fusion prepared by former SushiSamba chef Bobby Silva. On paper, this seems like an almost guaranteed hit among Park guests and those attending concerts and events at the arena. For now, however, it’s hit or miss. The space itself is gorgeous. The modern Japanese hybrid décor is polished and slick—tourist chic. And the DJ spins multigenerational party hits geared toward firing up the sake-slamming masses. The menu is heavy on fusion and light on traditional Japanese. For sushi, that means plenty of combo rolls. But limited nigiri and sashimi are available a la carte, and it’s nice to see some high-end cuts of fish such as o-toro (the fattiest cut of tuna belly). Most non-sushi dishes come in shareable portions, although there are a handful of full entrées and side dishes. Of the small bites, make it a point to try the salt and pepper shrimp, preferably with friends. The large portion of a dozen fried large shrimp come encrusted in heavy salty seasoning that’s downright addictive when you first sample it, but can become overpowering after a while. Sashimi tacos in crispy taro chip shells are also very good, although I prefer the citrus-heavy yellowtail version to the milder bigeye variety. (Fortunately, you can sample both in one order.) And the thin slices of wagyu beef seared tataki style and served with grated Japanese radish, red chili, shimeji mushrooms, ponzu and celery are excellent, despite the tiny portion. I’ve had three creations from the sushi bar. A spicy tuna roll had much better balance between fish and heat than what most

VegasSeven.com

PHOTO BY KRYSTAL RAMIREZ

Clockwise from bottom right: wagyu beef tataki; crispy sashimi tacos (tuna and yellowtail combo); roasted squash; salt and pepper shrimp.

BROMBERG BROTHERS PAGE 48

Restaurant reviews, news and the Further Future fest

May 12–18, 2016

DINING

We've learned how to treat guests we see once a year like regulars we see once a week in New York.

Cooking the Blues The Bromberg brothers are expanding to Miami and revamping their concept in the Cosmopolitan By Al Mancini

May 12–18, 2016

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➜ BROTHERS BRUCE AND ERIC

Bromberg are keeping busy these days, both in and outside of Las Vegas. It was announced in March that their popular Blue Ribbon Sushi Bar & Grill in the Cosmopolitan would be closing its doors. The news wasn’t terribly surprising since the hybrid restaurant was loved by many primarily for its sushi bar, and the Cosmo had already announced in late 2015 the imminent arrival of popular London sushi spot Zuma just steps from Blue Ribbon. Fortunately, those troubled by the news swiftly breathed a sigh of relief when the announcement also revealed that the Brombergs will retain their

center-Strip real estate, which will open under a new name and with a new concept after a brief hiatus. In the meantime, fans of the brothers Bromberg can also catch a flight to Miami, where a Blue Ribbon Sushi Bar & Grill is preparing to open in the renovated Plymouth Hotel in June. “[The Plymouth location] came about through longtime good customers in New York, guys who have been coming into the restaurant for many, many years,” Bruce says. “They are in the hospitality business as well, on the club and hotel side. They asked our bartender James if they could talk to us. And we all started talking and realized we shared

similar goals and aesthetics and vibes.” Bruce says the Miami spot won’t be a carbon copy of their Sushi Bar & Grill spots in Las Vegas, New York or L.A. Instead, he describes it as “more of a hybrid” between them and the Blue Ribbon Sushi Izakaya on New York’s Lower East Side. “It’s casual but fine dining at the same time. There’s an especially celebratory, fun aspect to it. It’s indoor-outdoor, so it’s gonna be a pretty neat space.” On top of that, the Brombergs will also provide the resort’s poolside menu and will open a tequila/taqueria concept in a small space on the property a few months after the sushi bar opens.

DRAGON ROLL BY STEVE HILL

DINING

Blue Ribbon’s Dragon Roll; and Bruce and Eric Bromberg.

While the Brombergs also operate restaurants in New York, California and London, Bruce says that lessons learned in Las Vegas will be especially useful in another destination resort city such as Miami. “[Las Vegas] has really grown our brand in a way,” he says. “We’ve learned how to treat guests we see once a year like regulars we see once a week in New York. Even though time may pass, and they may [only] come on vacation once a year, it feels like their regular joint. That’s the most important thing we’ve learned at the Cosmopolitan.” As for what we can expect from their new place in the Cosmopolitan, “There’s some exciting changes happening,” Bruce says. “And we are building a new restaurant there. We’re already deep into design. Obviously we’re going to step away from the Japanese side and let Zuma take care of that. We’re going back to our roots a bit, which is kind of more eclectic. Like the original Blue Ribbon, kind of something for everybody. It’s not a steakhouse. It’s not an Italian restaurant. We’re not really a specific thing; ours is just a great place to go and eat, drink and hang out. It’s going to be casual but elegant.” He also promises to maintain the restaurant’s late-night dining scene. But will the brothers’ signature fried chicken—which appears in various forms at most of their locations—make an appearance at the new concept, hardcore Bromberg fans wonder. “It’s entirely possible,” Bruce says with a laugh, clearly having heard this question before. “We can’t seem to get away from it.” Blue Ribbon Sushi & Grill will remain open for another three to four months. Once it shutters, construction on the new spot is expected to last another three to four months. So Bruce estimates it opening in “the fourth quarter of 2016 or first quarter of 2017.” The brothers plan to retain as much of their existing staff as possible. “Everyone is on board and superexcited for the new chapter,” he says. During the inevitable downtime between chapters, locals will still be able to get a taste of Bromberg cooking in the Valley, at both Blue Ribbon Fried Chicken in Downtown Summerlin and on the munchies menu at Brooklyn Bowl. And of course, each offers its own version of that fried chicken.

ting opposite the Void stage, a low-key spot that always had someone on the decks. Filling the gaps between the two were woven-reed chaises for dining, lounging and catnaps. Strung festival lights made this the obvious meeting place come night, when the rest of the grounds were plunged into darkness. Slinging food here nearly around the clock were 25 vendors, including Downtown’s SLO-Boy, Makers & Finders, Grassroots and Le Pho, plus District One, the Intuitive Forager Farm Shop and Gelatology, with options ranging from $6 to $15. The Future being cashless, transactions required RFID bands or credit cards. I chowed on chilled pork and shrimp spring rolls with peanut sauce from Le Pho; a tasty three-taco plate from QFS Tacos; and restorative Vietnamese coffee and piping-hot veggie pho from District One—all fresh and delicious. Humans tend to get thirsty in the desert, so water was abundant, available for $4 in Tetra Pak cartons or free from canteen filling stations. While alcohol was not the focus of the festival for many of the attendees, it was still a welcome amenity. Downtown’s impending King Hippo bar’s pop-up did brisk business, as did the Velveteen Rabbit pop-up, where proprietresses Pam and Christina Dylag made cocktails with spirits that had mingled with crystals, served with spell cards to attract love, protection, wealth or the special intention of your choosing. Predictably, Love was both tasty and popular. The MoëtHennessy team had the VIP scene on lock with Moët & Chandon Ice Imperial at the main stage, spa and VIP tent bar near the Airstreams. And if you’ve ever been curious about trance artist Richie Hawtin’s Enter.Sake, his shipping container sake bar by the Robot Heart stage was doling out healthy pours. But that was not the only place to try Enter.Sake. In the Pop-Up Dining tent,

OVERHEARD AT #FF002 “So, do you want to wear the unicorn hoodie or the gold cape?” –Press trailer, 4:30 p.m. April 29. “I have a feeling we’re going to see the sun rise.” –Velveteen Rabbit pop-up bar, 8:11 p.m. April 29. “I think he’s alive. He’s in a good position, he’s not gonna puke—let’s let him sleep.” –Vendor Village, 1:30 p.m. April 30. “Are you vegetarian? I believe every being on the planet is sacred.” –Robot Heart bus, 3:25 a.m. May 1. “I could go all day. Easily.” –Robot Heart bus, 5:49 a.m. May 1. “It’s time to say ‘fuck you’ to our genetic shortcomings.” –Author/documentarian Max Lugavere, Wellness platform, 6:48 p.m. May 1.

VegasSeven.com

PHOTOS KRYSTAL RAMIREZ

➜ MUSICALLY, I PROBABLY HAD NO

business attending Further Future (FurtherFuture.com). With all due respect, nothing could be further from my personal taste than the works of Nicolas Jaar, Caribou or Lee Burridge (the three most anticipated of more than 70 acts, according to the festival’s remarkably useful app). But what was to my taste was the culinary lineup: District One, SLO-Boy, Poutine Your Mouth and more in the Vendor Village, as well as several high-end pop-up dinners in the desert. (The festival’s steampunk mélange of Mad Max, Bladerunner and Wild Wild West also appeals, aesthetically.) So on April 29, I made the 45-minute drive north on Interstate 15 to the festival grounds on the Moapa River Reservation. I brought a pillow, a sleeping bag, a wardrobe of futuristic attire and as open a mind as I could muster. According to festival reps, 4,500 people flowed through between April 29 and the morning of May 2. As early as noon on Day One, they streamed through the gates, kicking up swirls of pink dust as they parked cars and hooked up RVs, pitched tents or strolled entourage in tow into any of the fancier camping options ranging from reflective Fest Pods and military-esque bell tents (with air conditioning!) to the 28foot Airstream trailers and fullyappointed domes for four, concierge service included. At $45 for the weekend, the cheapest real estate around was a six-inch-tall, one-foot-wide locker with charging capabilities. That effectively became my home base, accommodating a backup water bottle, Chapstick, sunscreen, tissues, deodorant and all the charging power a gal could ever need or want. It takes a village to feed 4,500 millennials, so a village they built. The crescent-shaped Vendor Village quickly became the central hub of activity, sit-

Eating and drinking my way through Further Future’s second utopian fest in the desert By Xania Woodman

from Third Leaf Partners labels). On Sunday, DW Bistro and Forte European Tapas served brunch to yet another 200 guests. In all, Mannina estimates more than 1,100 such fancy meals were served in the desert. The biggest issue facing Further Future 002 was the one thing that cannot be controlled (although it could be better prepared for). Weather ranged from sunny and warm to blustery and overcast all the way to torrential downpour, gale-force winds and even hail. “In addition to weather, one of the biggest challenges for me—even after the first year—is determining the flow of a 24-hour festival and being the only person on the team who lives in Las Vegas,” Mannina says. “I am getting familiar with taking meetings on Bali and Hong Kong time.” The Future, it seems, is also a remoteworking society.

“I didn’t bring a PowerPoint, I brought a drink. Is that cool?” –Hospitality design/operations consultant Tobin Ellis, Booba Cosmica stage, 7:31 p.m. May 1.

May 12–18, 2016

True Grit

Jolene Mannina kept up a steady flow of fancy, sold-out pop-up dinners all weekend. (She also oversaw nearly all the food and beverage for the festival this year and last, including most of Vendor Village, plus all artist riders and private dining, and hired the team from Herbs & Rye to run point on beverage.) Friday night’s Echo & Rig dinner welcomed 200 guests to sit on floor cushions and dine like royalty, while the Nobu dinner allowed just 150 impeccably dressed guests to spread out a little as they enjoyed their miso black cod, Japanese wagyu short rib and assorted sushi paired with a Herradura Tequila welcome cocktail and four varieties of Enter.Sake. On Saturday, the tent saw a California takeover by L.A.’s the Larchmont (with excellent beers from Boomtown Brewery) and Venice Beach’s Rose Café (with wine

A&E

PAGE 56

Music, movies, television and a bit of crazy cosplay

Eight-year-old Las Vegan Christopher Convery is filling some big shoes in Kinky Boots on Broadway By Kayla Dean

VegasSeven.com

This Kid’s Gonna Go Far

Convery made his Broadway debut in the Tony Award-winning musical Kinky Boots in late February, but he’s already transitioned into the role of Broadway star with aplomb. He autographs programs for adoring fans after performances. On his downtime, he enjoys playing piano, visiting the National Museum of History (“That’s where they filmed Night at the Museum!” he says) and seeing other Broadway shows. Convery has access to everything New York City has to offer a performer. The twist? He’s only 8 years old. “I like being onstage, because you get to do different characters,” Convery says. “Some of them are nothing like you, but some of them are just like you. It’s really fun to do that because dancing and singing are my favorite things to do.” Convery is the first alumnus of Camp Broadway at The Smith Center for the Performing Arts to ever make it into a Broadway show. For one week each summer, The Smith welcomes kids ages 6 to 17 to the traveling national camp, where they learn singing, dancing and acting from professional performers. At the end of the week, the kids perform a show for their families. When Convery attended two years ago, they did a production of The Jungle Book. It was his first acting experience. Last month when Myron Martin, president of The Smith Center, announced next year’s lineup, he also noted Convery’s Broadway role. Since he first saw Convery perform in “God Lives in Glass” in Reynolds Hall last year, Martin knew that he had talent. “When I told our audience about Christopher’s Broadway role, I did get a little emotional,” Martin says. “I’m not sure people realize the odds of landing a role on Broadway, no matter what age you are. Education is in The Smith Center’s DNA. Anytime we hear stories about kids we know doing something great, it makes us happy. This story makes me especially happy, not only because we launched the tour for Kinky Boots, but now Christopher is in the show.” Martin has kept up with Convery’s success. He was even in New York City at the time that Christopher auditioned for Kinky Boots. However, Martin emphasizes that Camp Broadway is not the reason

May 12–18, 2016

PHOTO BY BILL BALLERINI AND K ATHY COOLEY

➜ LAS VEGAS LOCAL Christopher

[ MOVIES ]

➜ Summer outdoor movies were

once a rarity in Las Vegas. During the 1990s and early 2000s, there simply weren’t enough suitable places to show them and locals were disinclined to go, y’know, outside. But today, we have a number of terrific outdoor venues—Downtown Container Park, the Boulevard Pool at the Cosmopolitan, Huntridge Circle Park and others—and each of them is offering a lineup of (mostly) family-friendly films. And most of them are free—all you need bring is a blanket or lawn chair to sit on. And the best part? No one will tell you to stop texting during the movie, even though they freaking should. Cinema in the Circle at Huntridge Circle Park Outdoor movie screenings in Downtown’s Huntridge neighborhood aren’t just about the free movies. Past events have included dress-up components—a screening of The Great Gatsby (1974) saw locals decked out in their Roaring ’20s finest—and people bring their dogs and bicycles. Cinema in the Circle is scheduled to begin on the second Friday of June and continue on every second Friday through October. The 2016 schedule is being finalized; check Cinema in the Circle’s Facebook page for updates. Screenings begin at dusk and are generally all-ages. (Facebook. com/CinemaInTheCircle)

Huntridge Circle Park's Cinema in the Circle is lookin' at you, kid.

Dive-In Movies at the Cosmopolitan The Cosmo does things a bit differently: It shows movies on the hotel’s giant LED marquee screen, and admission is complimentary for hotel guests and children under 5; all others pay $5. (Note that some of the Cosmo’s offerings are rated R.) Highlights of the 2016 lineup include Jaws (May 30), Casino (June 6), Ferris Bueller’s Day Off (June 20), Independence Day (July 4) and The Big Lebowski (August 22). Screenings begin at 7:30 p.m. (CosmopolitanLasVegas.com/Dive-In-Movies) Family Movie Night at Downtown Container Park The advantages to seeing an outdoor movie at Container Park should

speak loudly to legal-age adults: You can easily watch the movie from the patios of Bin 702 and Oak & Ivy. (Container Park’s sprawling playground is also within sight of the bars.) Season highlights include Enchanted (May 19), Lilo & Stitch (June 2), Avengers: Age of Ultron (June 23), Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (July 14) and Star Wars: The Force Awakens (August 4). Movies begin at sunset and there’s no cover (but the cocktails aren't free). (DowntownContainerPark.com) Movies in the Square at The Green Town Square’s free, family-friendly movie series boasts live entertainment and kid-friendly activities, and has the added advantage in being at one of the

[ MUSIC ]

WHEN DAVE MET LIONEL

May 12–18, 2016

VegasSeven.com

➜ Lionel Richie and Dave Grohl

consummated their bromance over muffins. When Grohl broke his leg in June 2015, shortly before the two artists were scheduled to appear at the Glastonbury Festival, Richie sent the Foo Fighters frontman a huge basket of muffins and a get-well note. On May 5, during a recording of SiriusXM’s Town Hall program at Planet Hollywood’s Axis Theater, Grohl returned the favor: He gave Richie a cauldron of muffins, one that needed two men to carry it. The muffin cauldron was only the first sweetly pleasant surprise in an event filled with them. Ostensibly, the evening was all about the SiriusXM contest winners who’d earned the right to sit on the Axis stage, watch Richie perform a few semi-acoustic

city’s liveliest shopping and entertainment centers. This year’s highlights: Big Hero 6 (June 4), Maleficent (June 25), The Mighty Ducks (July 9), The Lego Movie (July 16) and Toy Story (August 6). The Green is located at the property’s northwest corner, and movies begin at sunset. (MyTownSquareLasVegas.com) Outdoor Movie Nights at The District at Green Valley Ranch Don’t feel left out, Green Valley and Henderson: The District has you covered with a free, all-ages movie series. Highlights include Goosebumps (May 14), Finding Nemo (May 21) and Up (May 28). Movies begin at 7:30 p.m. (ShopTheDistrictGVR.com/ Events.php) –Geoff Carter

songs and to ask the R&B great a few questions, moderated by Grohl. While Town Hall delivered on those promises—fans asked their questions, and Richie played spare versions of “Easy,” “Three Times a Lady,” “Hello” and others—the real joy of the event was seeing Grohl and Richie talk about songwriting, performing and stardom. The biggest takeaways: We learned that both Grohl and Richie are self-taught players, a fact that astounded both men. Grohl asked if Richie owned the clay bust from the “Hello” music video; Richie replied that the bust, which he didn’t like, had “accidentally” been destroyed after the shoot. (“Never knew how it happened,” Richie said, grinning mischievously. “There was a shoe print on it.”) They talked about the difficulties and rewards of being in a band where everyone has an equal role (“I’m in a marriage with five men,” Grohl said), and we learned that Richie never formally left the Commodores; he’s just “taking a break” that’s lasted 34 years.

Grohl expressed mild envy at Richie’s Planet Hollywood residency, intimating that the Foo Fighters had briefly entertained the idea of a Vegas residency themselves. And Richie gave the best answer ever to the “will you ever retire” question: “Retire from what? I’ve never had a job. And if I were to quit doing this, I’d what, travel the world? I’m doing that anyway.” The best part of the night, however, was one that SiriusXM listeners will never see. During Richie’s songs, Grohl—who was seated in a tall director’s chair at the end of Richie’s piano—bobbed his head appreciatively along with the music. He wasn’t there as an interviewer, or to repay that muffin debt; he was there as a Lionel Richie fan. Richie empathized with him, talking about a recent encounter with another musician that he admired. “Once you lose that feeling of being a [music] fan,” he said, “you’ve lost everything.” That evening at Axis, Richie and Grohl made that feeling contagious. – Geoff Carter

CINEMA IN THE CIRCLE BY GEOFF CARTER; RICHIE AND GROHL BY ERIK K ABIK

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LAS VEGAS' CINEMA OF THE GREAT OUTDOORS

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O . A . R . THE STONE FOXES SMASHING ALICE JASON BONHAM S LED ZEPPELIN EXPERIENCE ALICE - A STEAMPUNK CONCERT FANTASY

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U S E D

EMO NIGHT BROOKLYN

LATE SHOW

STRFKR + COM TRUISE KEVIN FOWLER BLUE OCTOBER

SUN 6/5

CARAVAN PALACE

MON 6/6

METAL CHURCH + ARMORED SAINT

THU 6/9

PRESERVATION HALL JAZZ BAND TOMORROW S BAD SEEDS

SAT 6/11 WED 6/15 FRI 6/17 SAT 6/18

M O R G A N H E R I T A G E DRAKE VS. KANYE (TRIBUTE PARTY) DRU HILL

WED 6/22

GEORGE CLINTON + PARLIAMENT FUNKADELIC

WED 6/22

40oz. TO FREEDOM - SUBLIME TRIBUTE BAND

SAT 7/2

THE OUTLAWZ WITH THA DOGG POUND

THU 7/7

TARRUS RILEY

MON 7/11 FRI 7/15

TOAD THE WET SPROCKET + RUSTED ROOT CRAIG ROBINSON + THE NASTY DELICIOUS

SAT 7/16

THE PSYCHEDELIC FURS + THE CHURCH

SUN 7/17

STEPHEN RAGGA MARLEY - THE FRUIT OF LIFE SUMMER TOUR

SAT 7/30

PROTOJE + THE INDIGGNATION

SUN 7/31

THE CLAYPOOL LENNON DELIRIUM

SAT 8/13

LION BABE

MON 8/15

KURT VILE + THE VIOLATORS

FRI 8/26 SUN 8/28 FRI 9/9 TUE 9/20

MICHAEL FRANTI + SPEARHEAD EXPLOSIONS IN THE SKY B A Y S I D E WITH THE MENZINGERS THE AVETT BROTHERS

CENTER STRIP AT THE LINQ || BROOKLYNBOWL.COM || 702.862.BOWL

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ALSO FEATURING LAISSEZ FAIRE | DRYDEN BROWN | SAM V

[The original is] a very gritty, pretty kind of restaurant. It’s got a lot of Lower East Side New York grit throughout. But it also has all these jewelry references throughout that make it kind of glam-y. If it were a song, it’s got a ’70s David Bowie feel to it, or T. Rex. That’s how I was looking at it when we designed it. The entrance is actually a pawn shop that focuses on jewelry and found pieces. People really love that piece of the business. Not only do we do a lot of sales, but it also transports you from the street—or I guess here, the casino—into a completely different vibe. It’s a portal. It’s small and cramped with jewelry cases and this crazy eclectic collection of jewels and guitars and things. But then, once you get toward the back and open the door, it opens to this big expansive space. So if I’m getting my ass kicked at the tables, will I be able to go the restaurant with some jewelry to pawn?

No. In New York we’ve partnered with a pawn dealer that we just purchase the goods from and then we sell them. But you can’t come in with something off the street and just pawn it. It’s straight retail. But it’s a pawn shop-inspired, curated experience.

May 12–18, 2016

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What will the menu be like?

Chris Santos The Chopped judge on his Cosmopolitan restaurant Beauty & Essex, ingredients you won’t find in his cupboard and music By Al Mancini

We seamlessly bring together low-brow and high-brow stuff at the same time. Most of my approach to cooking— and our team’s approach—is re-imagining classic dishes. A lot of stuff comes from things that are already existing in pop culture and are established. We take that and think how do we make that different. How do we make it our own? How do we make it surprising? How do we make it exciting? We’re taking some signature dishes from Stanton Social [in New York]—which is my first restaurant that I’ve had for 11 years—and putting them on the Beauty & Essex menu here. So it’ll be the first time that the two menus will come together. The menu is about 50 percent (maybe a little more) of established Beauty & Essex tried-andtrue dishes, a handful of Stanton Social’s iconic dishes and then a quarter to a third of the menu is gonna be brandnew dishes just for Vegas.

When you’re judging on Chopped, do you ever see ingredients that even you couldn’t do anything with?

Sure. There are ingredients that we haven’t heard of. There are times when I look at the other judges and say, “Have you ever …? What is this?” There’s durian. It’s a fruit from Thailand that’s just strange, and it smells really bad. That’s an ingredient that I didn’t know. But I was in Thailand recently, and I saw it everywhere. And the women who prepare it wear medical masks. Why would you want to eat something like that? I’m not a fan of gummy bears. Gummy anything— there’s nothing you can do with it. I was given a gummy candy for a Thanksgiving [episode] and failed epically. You can’t do anything with it except melt it down. And then it has this very artificial … it’s gross! Your record label, Blacklight Media, just released its first album by the band Good Tiger. How’d that come about?

My life revolves around three entities—the sport of boxing, which I was involved with when I was younger, cooking and music. I’m a metal and hardcore guy. I’ve been playing drums for 30 years, I’ve been in and out of bands, and over the years have made a lot of friends within the industry. One of those friends is Brian Slagel, who started Metal Blade Records in the ’80s. We were at a Slayer show, and he liked me from Chopped and we just became buddies. One of the things I do to decompress at the end of a long day or week is scour the Internet for music and go out to see bands. So I started sending him bands, and he started signing them. And after he signed the fourth band, he said, “We should just do an imprint together.” Do you check out local bands here in Vegas?

Not too much. But I’m hoping to hit the local music scene. But I’m more of a dive-bar kind of guy. I just want to shoot a game of pool and have a good jukebox. So have you been to the Double Down?

Around the corner from Beauty & Essex in New York is the second Double Down, and we go there three nights a week. But I have never been to the one here, believe it or not. I’ll get there.

PHOTO BY KRYSTAL RAMIREZ

SEVEN QUESTIONS

What should people expect from Beauty & Essex, opening this week in the Cosmopolitan?