DINE RICHARD’S CAFE ¤ DRINK LOGON CAFE ¤ CULTURE TASI JURORED MEMBERS SHOW ¤ NIGHTLIFE STANCE FASHION rdc h etbgtrend? big next the coalition produce stylish this Could PA AYLOUNGE EASY SPEAK ¤ IEMUSIC LIVE HNRB RUSSELL SHINYRIBS HRDY AC 1 2011 31, MARCH THURSDAY, ¤ theCAT5.com C2 theCAT5.com THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011 10

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contents March 31-April 6, 2011 Follow us at www.thecat5.com or on Facebook, Twitter and Foursquare at thecatfive. livemusic LOCAL BOY MAKES GOOD: Kevin ‘Shinyribs’ Russell is Beau- 6 mont-born, but has hardly played in his hometown. 16 musicrewind SXSW REVISITED: Take a look at the best of the best with a 10 rewind of South by Southwest. nightlife EASY STREET: This hole-in-the-wall Port Arthur establishment is 14 classy, friendly and not to be missed. fashion A CHIC COALITION: These women (and some men) are taking the 16 fashion world by storm after getting their start at Lamar. 23 dineout GOLDEN TOUCH: It took more than 600 days, but this fairy tale 23 heroine finally found her perfect treat.

cover E’Blaja fashion coalition. Photo provided by BH Productions

horthand for “Category 5,” our name Srefers to both the powerful computer network cable that connects us to the digital world and the most potent weather phenomenon to hit Southeast . Each Thursday, we’ll cut through the noise to connect you to the hippest and most intense nightlife, music, dining and culture in the coming week. TO BUY AN AD call 409.880.0700 COMMENTS AND STORY IDEAS write to [email protected] QUESTIONS ON DELIVERY AND PICKUP LOCATIONS call 409.838.2818

HOW DO YOU USE cat5? Send a photo of yourself or your friends with cat5 at your favorite nightlife or dining spot to beth@ thecat5.com. Left, SxSETX at Tequila Rok.

THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011 theCAT5.com C3 hotpicks Fiveeventsnottomissthisweek april 1 FRIDAY NIGHT AT THE FAIR

This is the last weekend for the South Texas State Fair, so if you haven’t been yet, you’ve got until the gates close Sunday. Friday’s music lineup might be the best of the whole run, with two fantastic acts who will tear the house down: Shinyribs Russell and Hamil- ton Loomis. Shinyribs Russell has a lock on country swamp blues and has a huge following in Austin and . He gets almost psychedelic some- times with that voice of his, so it should be a wonderful show. Read more about him mar 31 on page C6. And Hamilton Loomis? DIRT! SCREENING He’s been playing since his grandfather gave him a drum If you thought dirt was little set at age 4. He played with his family’s doo-wop band in more than an inconvenience his teens, had his first perfor- for your new white kicks, mance with Bo Diddley at 16 a documentary screening and fronted his own six-piece McFaddin-Ward tonight at the cover band by age 17. Visitor’s Center will change He’s in his 30s now and your mind. still bringin’ the blues. His “Dirt! The Movie,” narrated songs are gritty, sexy, gravy by Jamie Lee Curtis, takes blues and soul standards that a look at soil and its impor- make him seem well beyond tance to the sustainability of his years. humanity. The film takes you The Miller Lite Beer Gar- from prison farms to fields den will have all the booze turned to wastelands by you need all night and if you industrial farming to tropical get bored with the music (as rainforests and the people if!), there are pig races nearby whose lives are threatened by and a whole midway full of their deforestation. greasy food. When: While a documentary about Shinyribs Russell dirt doesn’t sound like a plays from 7 to 8:30 p.m. and Hamilton Loomis plays from 9 riveting way to spend a thirsty to 10:30 p.m. Friday. Thursday, this one has striking Where: South Texas State cinematography, great music Fair, Ford Park, 5115 Inter- and surprisingly fascinating state 10 South. subject matter that’s been Pro Tip: On Sunday you hiding right beneath your feet can get in free if you bring six this whole time. empty Coca-Cola or Dr Pepper When: 6:30 p.m. tonight. cans. Those who bring the Where: McFaddin-Ward empties also can pick up an House Visitors Center, 1906 unlimited ride wristband for Calder Ave. $20. Admission: Free.

C4 theCAT5.com THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011 ComeCome visit visit CumulusCumulus Radio Radio & & KBMTKBMT TV TV at at the the South South Texas Texas april 2 StateState Fair! Fair! March March 24 24 – – April April 3. 3. ZYDECO MATINEE WeWe are are giving giving away away Saturday afternoons are meant to be spent at a well- manymany prizes! prizes! stocked bar with good live music. This weekend, Nell’s LookforusinfrontofLookforusinfrontof Place Jazz & Blues has you covered on both fronts. The friendly, cozy downtown thethe Crazy Crazy Mouse! Mouse! bar will host Billy Poullard and the Zydeco Combo, an infec- tiously fun Zydeco band with all the high-energy accordion- and washboard-playing your dancin’ feet can handle. Sidle up to the bar and have yourself just about any drink you desire, because Nell’s bar is stocked for a refreshing afternoon libation. When: Noon to 4 p.m. Saturday. Where: Nell’s Place Jazz & Blues, 500 Franklin St. Admission: $7.

april 4 THEATER NIGHT Theater geeks and show ktcx.com tune lovers, take note: The kayd.com Logon’s got a new night just for you. A pianist will be on hand Monday night to play any show tunes or sheet music you’ve got, but originals performed on your own instrument also are welcome. Want to do a monologue? kqxy.com You can do that, too. This all- lagrand1450.com ages event is an opportunity april 1 for stage performers to come do their thing. You also can get JUST BRITTANY AT THE TICKET a sneak peek at what’s going on in local theater, as actors As the title of her recently released EP suggests, Just Brittany is from current productions will More than Just a Pretty Face. pop by and perform. The Cash Money Records artist — with a voice worthy of hard- When: 7 p.m. Monday. edge hip-hop beats and Beyonce-like vocal riffs alike — went from Where: relative obscurity to regional success in the last couple of years and Logon Cafe, 3805 th she’s only going up from here. Some folks call her Houston’s newest Calder Ave. 755 South 11 Street, Suite 102 Admission: first lady of rap, and this weekend she’s bringing her dance-heavy $5. tracks to The Ticket on College Street. Read more on page C7. Pro tip: Use the entrance by Beaumont, TX 77701 When: Friday . CVS. The Calder construction Where: The Ticket, 3684 College St. (behind Pho Four Seasons) makes reaching some busi- 409.951.2500 Admission: $10 advance, $15 at the door. nesses on the street tricky.

THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011 theCAT5.com C5 livemusic

SHINYRIBS RUSSELL LIVE This Gourd ain’t When: 7 to 8:30 p.m. Friday. Where: South Texas State Fair entertainment pavilion, Ford Park, 5115 I-10 South, Beaumont. Admission: $8 to get into the aiming for a blue fair. By Beth Rankin [email protected] @BeaumontBeth on Facebook,Twitter & Foursquare A

evin “Shinyribs” ribbon at the fair Russell might K have been born in Beaumont, ButKevin‘Shinyribs’RussellisouttogivetheSouthTexas but when he plays the South w Texas State Fair tomorrow StateFaircrowdafamilyfriendlyshowFridaynight night, it’ll be only his sec- ond show in town. And his first one ... well, this show won’t be much w like that first show. “I played the Vortex,”he said, referencing the now- closed hole-in-the-wall on 11th Street. “It was pretty rowdy.” Russell was born at Chris- tus St. Elizabeth Hospital and went to Regina Howell, but left Beaumont when he was pretty young, as his dad was in the oil business and moved a lot. ButhestayedinSouth- east Texas, living in Hous- ton and Shreveport, La., and cut his teeth playing at Louisiana biker bars and other Southeast Texas dives before moving to Austin and finding success with his country/rock/Texas psy- Joe Winston/cat5 chedelic band The Gourds. livemusic Now Open on Sundays

You can count on his fair Suki’s show being a little more family- Bridal, Formals & Tuxedos friendly. “I’m looking forward to playing It’s Just Brittany Largest Selection in this Area Of: Beaumont,”Russell said. “I used • Wedding Gowns to go to the fair as a kid.” Russell — with a golden voice • Attendants thatbegstobeheardinasaw- • Prom dust-filled honky-tonk — strad- • Pageant dles the line between country, Gowns swamp pop and Texas psychedel- • Tuxedos ic, to a magical effect. He appeals • Jewelry to blue-collar country folk and • Special Austin hipsters alike, but he’s got Occasion some deep blues roots that make Accessories his music incredibly versatile. FULL SERVICE It’s the psychedelic edge of this BRIDAL SALON, singer/songwriter’s work that re- OUT OF TOWN SERVICE, ally gets me. Listen to “Morning’s WE CATER TO ALL Night” on his Reverb Nation page SIZES (0-30W) to see what I mean. The guitar and pedal steel on that track is so wistful and imaginative that you Maggie suddenly feel like you’re floating Sottero through space. Texas space. When I talked to Russell, he was taking a break from a recording session at a studio Hrs. M-F 10-6, Sat 10-5 outside Woodstock, N.Y., where 7162 N. Hwy.87, Orange,TX he’s recording another album (across From LCM High School) with country/blues/rock outfit (409) 886-5161 The Gourds. You know, the guys www.sukisbridal.com responsible for the countrified cover of ’s cover of By Beth Rankin She’s currently planning a tour, “Gin & Juice.” [email protected] she said, so she can bring her They’ve been together so long @BeaumontBeth on Facebook,Twitter & high-energy shows to cities Foursquare and recorded so many albums, across the U.S. Russell has lost count. JUST BRITTANY LIVE “Its real fun to me,”she said. “I think it’s 10, best we can tell,” Doors open at 10 p.m. Friday. “I like to entertain and I’ll be the he said with a laugh. “Maybe 11.” The Ticket, 3684 College St. one at the front of the room.” But this album is the first $10 advance, $15 at the door. And she’s not hard to look at, they’ve recorded outside of Aus- either, with haunting amber eyes tin, he said, let alone across the and a figure that ensures your country. ust Brittany is a tiny eyes won’t likely wander away “It’s snowing outside, that’s girl with a tiny voice, from her. Particularly when she’s a big difference,”he said. “It’s a dancing. huge difference. Being away from but when she plays “My shows, they vary,”she home, we’re all just living in a J liveatTheTicketon said. “I try not to do the same house here together and coming things all the time. I start off with over (to the studio) every morn- Friday night, your chest will something slow then get the ing. We’re together the whole rattle. crowd crunk.” time and that makes a huge dif- And her songs — an amal- ference.” And your feet will move. gamation of hardcore rap and That focus — as well as the change of scenery — will cer- Some say she’s Houston’s Photo courtesy of Rita G Photography happy, up-beat hip-hop — cer- tainly make it easy to move. tainly have an effect on the final newest first lady of rap, and recording, Russell said. Check out her show at The “We’re very distracted with our she’s certainly got the prac- “Weusedtoperforminfront Ticket this weekend, because lives while we’re (in Austin) work- of the mirror,”she said, laughing. with a voice like hers — and a ing,”he said. “It’s nice just having tice to get her there. But a couple of years back, her record label like Cash Money time to do nothing but this.” She started perform- bass-heavy track “Call Me for behind her — this tiny Houston That album is due out in that Good” caught the attention rapper is going to get big. September, but lucky for us, we ing when she was little at of Cash Money Records, and JB’s You’ll see what we mean when don’t have to wait that long to church, clubs her mom days of performing in front of a you see her live show. hear Shinyribs’ incredible, down- bathroom mirror were suddenly “There’s a lot of dancing, a lot home vocals. Check him out at owned and with a group behind her. of singing, a lot of energy, a lot of the fair when he comes through, she formed with her little Now that she’s on Cash attitude,”she said. “It’s just fun to because this Beaumont boy Money, she’s become a regional see. You won’t want to take your doesn’t make it home too often. sister. celebrity who’s on her way up. eyes off the stage.” THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011 theCAT5.com C7 concertplanner april 7 april 26 ALLISON COLLINS, L’Auberge du Lac GEORGE THOROGOOD & THE DESTROY- Casino, Lake Charles, La. ERS, House of Blues, Houston ALL TIME LOW, YELLOWCARD, House of Blues, Houston JIM JONES, CAM’RON, JUELZ SANTA- april 28 NA, Numbers Night Club, Houston RONNIE MILSAP, THE BOOKS, Fitzgerald’s, Houston Nutty Jerry’s, Winnie , Verizone Wireless The- april 8 ater, Houston HE SAID SHE SAID, Dosey Doe, The THE TEMPTATIONS , Nutty Jerry’s, Win- Woodlands nie CHASING SCARLET, L’Auberge du Lac Casino, Lake Charles, La. april 29 LADY GAGA, Toyota Center, Houston TWIN SHADOW, THE PAINS OF BEING CLINT BLACK, Texas BBQ Festival, Vidor PURE AT HEART, Fitzgerald’s, Houston KE$HA, Verizon Wireless Theater, Hous- WARPAINT, Fitzgerald’s, Houston ton GRUPO FANTASMA, Warehouse Live, THE MOODY BLUES, Cynthia Woods Houston Mitchell Pavilion, the Woodlands PAUL THORN, UNCLE LUCIUS , Fire- SAMMY HAGAR, Coushatta Casino Re- house Saloon JOSH THOMPSON sort, Kinder, La. , Galveston County BLACK LIPS, VIVIAN GIRLS Fair, Galveston , Fitzgerald’s, Houston april 9 GEORGE JONES, Arena Theater, Hous- ton THREE 6 MAFIA, Numbers Night Club, Houston ELECTRIC TOUCH, Fitzgerald’s, Houston april 30 MASERATI , The Mink, Houston WAYNE TOUPS & ZYDECAJUN, River- REAL ESTATE, , Houston fest, Port Neches City Park, Port Neches BOB SEGER & THE SILVER BULLET april 10 BAND, Toyota Center, Houston MARY GAUTHIER, McGonigel’s Mucky Duck, Houston may 1 SAVING ABEL, Jones Plaza, Houston TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA, Ford april 11 Arena BRYCE SHAVER, ROBERT NEWLAND, LADY GAGA, SEMI PRECIOUS WEAP- The Associated Press JOE NICHOLS ONS , Riverfest, Port Neches , Toyota Center, Houston The Associated Press Willie Nelson has announced a May 4 show City Park, Port Neches at the Julie Rogers Theater in Beaumont. Call Lady Gaga will bring her particular brand of april 12 (409) 838-3435 for ticket information. weird to Houston on April 8 and 11. may 4 STONE SOUR, THEORY OF A DEADMAN, Reliant Stadium, Houston WILLIE NELSON, Julie Rogers Theater COHEED AND CAMBRIA, Warehouse THE ARCADE FIRE House, Galveston Pavilion, the Woodlands , Cynthia Woods Live, Houston april 15 JESSICA LEA MAYFIELD, Fitzgerald’s, Mitchell Pavilion, Houston GENE LOVES JEZEBEL, Stereo Live, BEAUMONT BOYS BASH , Crockett Street Houston Houston TED NUGENT april 17 , Nutty Jerry’s, Winnie THE MEATMEN, Walter’s on Washington, GOGOL BORDELLO, House of Blues, KATHLEEN MADIGAN may 5 , House of Blues, JIM LAUDERDALE, Dosey Doe, Houston Houston Houston Houston MARINA AND THE DIAMONDS NAT BALDWIN, Avant Garden, Houston JIMMY BUFFET, Cynthia Mitchell Pavil- , Fitzger- TOADIES, Warehouse Live, Houston ald’s, Houston RONNIE MILSAP, Grand 1894 Opera april 19 ion, The Woodlands House, Galveston april 23 JARS OF CLAY, Lake Charles Civic Cen- FOALS, Fitzgerald’s, Houston ULTRASUEDE, Crow’s Cantina, Galves- ter, Lake Charles, La. april 13 REBIRTH BRASS BAND, Luna Bar & ton BRETT DENNEN, DAWES, Fitzgerald’s, Grill, Lake Charles, La. RAVEONETTES, Fitzgerald’s, Houston TAB BENOIT, Dosey Doe, The Woodlands april 20 THE PAINS OF BEING PURE AT HEART, RICKY MARTIN, Toyota Center, Houston Houston ACID MOTHERS TEMPLE UMPHREY’S MCGEE TWIN SHADOW, Rhythm Room, Hous- april 16 , Fitzgerald’s, , House of Blues, ton Houston Houston may 6 FRENCH HORN REBELLION BEAUMONT BOYS BASH, Crockett , Fitzger- RANDY ROGERS BAND april 14 Street april 21 ald’s, Houston , Nutty Jerry’s, KNUCKLE DEEP, The Gig Winnie DROWNING POOL, TRUST COMPANY, BRANTLEY GILBERT, Dixie Dance Hall THE AIR I BREATHE,SCARLETT O’HARA, april 24 TRACY LAWRENCE, Lake Charles Civic A NEW REVOLUTION, STATIC CYCLE j AVETT BROTHERS, Verizon Wireless Warehouse Live, Houston , Center, Lake Charles, La. SALIVA, REV THEORY, EMPHATIC The Gig SLEIGH BELLS, CSS, Warehouse Live, Theater, Houston , Veri- PHOSPHORESCENT, Warehouse Live, PETE YORN, BEN KWELLER, House of zon Wireless Theater, Houston KT TUNSTALL, House of Blues, Houston Houston VAMPIRES EVERYWHERE! Houston Blues, Houston , Numbers, WILCO JUNIOR BROWN, McGonigel’s Mucky Houston april 22 april 25 , Verizon Wireless Theater, Hous- j Duck, Houston LIL WAYNE, NICKI MINAJ, RICK ROSS, ton REBIRTH BRASS BAND, Warehouse Toyota Center, Houston KANSAS, Nutty Jerry’s, Winnie YANNI, Verizon Wireless Theater, Hous- ECHO & THE BUNNYMEN, Warehouse Live, Houston RONNIE MILSAP, Grand 1894 Opera JAMES TAYLOR, Cynthia Woods Mitchell ton Live, Houston

C8 theCAT5.com THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011 livemusic

may 7 & THE DAP KINGS, TOBACCO, JUNIOR BRONCO JR. & THE OLD TRICK BAND, PAT GREEN, KENNY CHESNEY, Discov- BROWN, HEALTH, , HAYES THIS WEEK Bullfrog’s, Jasper ery Green, Houston DENGUE FEVER - , Fitzgerald’s CARLL, Free Press Summer Fest, Elea- Submit your live music events LUV SEXY, L’Auberge du Lac Casino, nor Tinsley Park, Houston to [email protected] Lake Charles, La. april 4 may 10 june 10 VALLEJO, ROBERT RANDOLPH & THE FAMILY BAND, PANIC! AT THE DISCO, CHARLES BILAL, Tradewinds Tavern at KYLIE MINOGUE, Verizon Wireless The- KEITH FRANK & SOILEAU ZYDECO, march 31 KINGS OF LEON, , Hous- MCM Elegante ater, Houston Laday’s Arena, Cheek ton SCISSOR SISTERS, Warehouse Live TONI HARRISON, KAISER BROTHERS, CHRIS CORNELL, House of Blues KENNY WIEBUSCH - may 13 , South Texas State PLAIN WHITE T’S, Reliant Arena june 11 Fair, Ford Park april 5 B.B. & CO. WITH BRITT GODWIN & ELY GUERRA, Miller Outdoor Theater, SAMMY KERSHAW, DARYLE SINGLE- EL FLOPPY TACOS, Madison’s BUBBA MOORE april 3 Houston TARY, , MacKenzie’s Pub ED DIX & FRIENDS, MacKenzie’s Pub Nutty Jerry’s, Winnie SCOTT MCGILL ROBBIE FULKS, McGonigel’s Mucky , The Grill LA MUSICA DE LA GRAN D, MARIA- DJ BOXXX, Star Bar CHARRICE & CO. Duck, Houston , Logon Cafe CHI DE AMERICAS, GROUPO BATACHA, RIDIN’ HIGH, The Boudain Hut, Port june 15 CLINT FAULK & SHERRIE LYNN SMOKEY ROBINSON, Arena Theater, , Larry’s SONIDO MAJICO, South Texas State Fair, Arthur Houston PANIC! AT THE DISCO, FUN, FUNERAL French Market, Groves Ford Park OLD 97’S, House of Blues, Houston r KIRK HOLDER PARTY, House of Blues, Houston , L’Auberge du Lac Casino, DJ AMRAN DURAN, Tequila Rok MELECHESH, Walter’s on Washington, - Lake Charles, La. JIMMY KAISER, SPENCER MARKS, Houston may 14 COLD WAR KIDS june 24 , Warehouse Live, Hous- BRYCE SHAVER, Courville’s THE DAMNWELLS, Fitzgerald’s, Houston SMOKING POPES, Fitzgerald’s, Hous- ton CURTIS BREAUX & THE CADILLACS, ton JOHNNY RIVERS, DELBERT MCCLIN- Pine Tree Lodge, LaBelle april 6 JOSH GROBAN RIDIN’ HIGH - , Toyota Center, Hous- TON, Nutty Jerry’s, Winnie april 1 , The Boudain Hut, Port ton Arthur CHARLES BILAL, MacKenzie’s Pub TONI HARRISON, SHINY RIBS RUSSELL, JOHN MELLENCAMP, Jones Hall, Hous- PAUL THORN, Courville’s june 25 HAMILTON LOOMIS , may 15 , South Texas State ton THOMAS COKINOS, Tradewinds Tavern at NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK AND THE Fair, Ford Park BRANDON RHYDER, Taste of Texas Res- MCM Elegante CLASSIC RECOVERED, Kampus Korner RIDIN’ HIGH - GIPSY KINGS, Arena Theater, Houston BACKSTREET BOYS, Toyota Center, taurant, Houston , The Boudain Hut, Port WAYNE TOUPS & ZYDECAJUN, Whiskey FOREVER THE SICKEST KIDS Houston , Number’s, Arthur VANS WARPED TOUR River Houston GUSTER, House of Blues, Houston may 17 at Sam Houston JUST BRITTANY, The Ticket HAMILTON LOOMIS, Dan Electro’s Guitar DIERKS BENTLEY, Verizon Wireless The- Race Park Showgrounds, Houston WARD, BOWEN & STEINMAN MOGWAI, Warehouse Live, Houston , Logon Bar, Houston ater, Houston BON JOVI, Toyota Center Cafe ROGER CREAGER, UNKLE KRACKER, DURAN DURAN, Warehouse Live - july 3 PHIL PRICHETT WITH JAMIE TALBOT, FOGHAT, Tequila Rok T may 20 Bicentennial Park, Baytown JAZZ NIGHT, WineStyles JIMMY KAISER BAND, Okee Dokee’s most downloaded JOE NICHOLS, Whiskey River itunes july 4 WAYLON THIBODEAUX, Larry’s French JUSTIN MCBRIDE, Texas Longhorn Market, Groves Singles Club, Vinton, La. PAT GREEN , Bicentennial Park, Bay- CREOLE COOKIN’, The Boudain Hut, Port 1. MY CHEMICAL ROMANCE, House of “E.T. (feat. Kanye West),” town Arthur Blues, Houston BRONCO JR. & THE OLD TRICK BAND Katy Perry , 2. “Loser Like Me (Glee Cast july 8 Cotton’s Cay, Orange , may 21 LOS SKARNALES, THE HOLD STEADY, Version),” Glee Cast DWIGHT YOAKAM, Arena Theater, SUBLIME WITH ROME, 3. “Just Can’t Get Enough,” Discovery Green, , Arena Theater, Hous- Houston Houston Black Eyed Peas ton STONEY LARUE, Texas Longhorn Club, 4. “S&M,” Rihanna july 9 Vinton, La. 5. “Get It Right (Glee Cast may 27 LUV SEXY, L’Auberge du Lac Casino, RIHANNA, CEE-LO GREEN Version),” Glee Cast , Toyota Cen- Lake Charles, La. 6. “Born This Way,” Lady GaGa GLORIANA, Delta Downs Casino, Vin- ter, Houston JOE PUG at McGoniegel’s Mucky Duck, 7. “Look At Me Now (feat. Lil ton, La. Houston MANCHESTER ORCHESTRA, CAGE Wayne & Busta Rhymes),” Chris DEL THA FUNKY HOMOSAPIEN, Fitzger- THE ELEPHANT july 29 , Verizon Wireless The- ald’s, Houston Brown KATY PERRY 8. ater, Houston , Toyota Center, Houston MUSTARD PIMP, Boondocks, Houston “On the Floor (feat. Pitbull),” RICK SPRINGFIELD, SPIN DOCTORS , KID KUDI, SUBLIME WITH ROME, Dis- Jennifer Lopez Arena Theater, Houston august 4 covery Green, Houston 9. “Forget You,” Cee Lo Green - 10. “Blow,” Ke$ha Katy Perry may 28 CREEDANCE CLEARWATER REVISIT- april 2 - ED, Nutty Jerry’s Albums .38 SPECIAL , Nutty Jerry’s, Winnie LIL NATE, Lil Henry’s Place 1. A FLOCK OF SEAGULLS “Endgame,” Rise Against , , Numbers august 5 KRIS HARPER, Tequila Rok 2. Night Club, Houston BILLY POULLARD & THE ZYDECO COM- “21,” Adele 3. “Lasers,” Lupe Fiasco BOYZ II MEN, Nutty Jerry’s, Winnie BO, Nell’s Place Jazz & Blues 4. “Sigh No More,” Mumford & may 29 SYMPHONY OF SOUTHEAST TEXAS, august 11 Julie Rogers Theater Sons JIMMIE VAUGHN, Delta Downs Casino, CLOCK & ANCHOR, ROLL OVER 5. “Glee: The Music, Vol. 5,” , Vinton, La. 311, SUBLIME WITH ROME, L’Auberge BEETHOVEN, THE OFF BRAND, EAZY, Glee Cast Du Lac Casino THE KINSHIP, LA ROXX, South Texas 6. “Give the Drummer Some,” c june 1 State Fair, Ford Park Travis Barker september 4 THE DRAW, Logon Cafe 7. “Loud,” Rihanna TWILIGHT SINGERS JIMMY KAISER , , Warehouse Live, , Thirsty’s 8. CHARLIE DANIELS JACKIE CAILLIER & CAJUN COUSINS “My World 2.0,” Justin Bieber Houston , Delta Downs Ca- , 9. “Goodbye Lullaby,” Avril Lavi- sino, Vinton, La. Larry’s French Market, Groves - CREOLE COOKIN’ gne june 4-5 , The Boudain Hut, Port 10. october 7 Arthur “Late Nights & Early WEEZER, CUT COPY, WEEN, BIG BOI, MY BEAUTIFUL DISASTER Mornings,” Marsha Ambrosius , Big Nusty’s, Rise Against BEIRUT, YEASAYER, SHARON JONES GEORGE JONES, Nutty Jerry’s, Winnie Bridge City THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011 theCAT5.com C9 THE BEST OF

thursdays SXSW ’11 will never Photo courtesy of Jan Dryden By Andrew Dansby be the same cat5

ore than 2,000 music Macts passed through Austin during the 2011 SXSW Music Conference, so clearly there was plenty of good music to be heard. But the eloquent and fiery keynote address from Bob Geldof had a disconcerting effect on my intake of the whole thing. Geldof essentially asked the rock ’n’ roll to matter again. night More than once, he won- side of dered aloud if any act from the conference would be se texas the next band that did have some sort of larger cultural sway and answered his own question with doubt. VALERIE JUNE Having taken in more I knew nothing about than a dozen acts a day for this Memphis singer- songwriter, but she 1made an instant impression four days, I’m not sure any performing with the assurance will matter the way Geldof of some of the great singer- songwriters from years past. would like them to, but June accompanied her rich thecat5.com nevertheless, there was and expressive voice with just guitar, banjo and ukulele. Hers some magnificent music is a soulful sort of roots music with potential for far-reaching performed by artists young appeal. The accompaniment sounds old-time folky, but and old. something about June’s other- Here are nine that made worldly voice makes her music feel very much of its era. an impression:

C10 theCAT5.com THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011 JAMES BLAKE WILD FLAG This English producer/ With two-thirds of performer is likely Sleater-Kinney on to make his biggest board, this band isn’t 4impression in other, more 7a huge departure from that electronica-friendly lands, as one. Despite its Portland(ia) evidenced by the bullying yam- location, the group found mering during his lovely set at some inspiration from sunny Stubbs. His music was force- California pop, especially in ful when it needed to be but the bright vocals that set it more often fragile and lovely apart from S-K. as swaying reeds in a breeze. CALIBRO 35 Add that description to the If your thing is Medeski YUCK word “dubstep” and his U.S. Martin Wood with zero WANDA JACKSON This English band stock plummets. Too bad, as reservations, this Ital- deliberately dials back his set of uncompromisingly 6ian ensemble is for you. A day was sup- to the early ’90s and gorgeous music offers a very set at Yard Dog was insanely posed to show and 2that rich era of alterna-rock, viable intro for those wanting play guitar at this funky with chunky guitar bits to try progressive electronic 9evening gig. He didn’t. People a logical step since just five ripped one after the other by years ago bands were doing music that has much in com- Massimo Martellotta. Enrico were chanting his name, which retro-’80s stuff to great at- mon with pretty pop from Gabrielli was the most peculiar was shameful. Jackson sound- tention (though short-term pretty much any era. multi-instrumentalist I’ve heard. ed significantly more spry live interest). Yuck is easy with a than on her White-produced He’d beat the snot out of his EMMYLOU HARRIS melody and puts enough mus- Farfisa and then peel off mon- album, particularly when she Expect big things from tard on its songs to push them ster free-jazz sax solos. When did some yodeling. And she this rising talent. ... across to those who do feel the mood hit, he could also do sounded spirited on “I Gotta Actually the country like rock left them behind. some damage with the flute. Know,” the greatest country/ 8legend trotted out two vulner- rockabilly fusion ever record- It was all united by enough able and honest tributes to funkiness to make you want ed. Ask White, an estimable friends who had died (Gram to crack a window. Luckily the song guy no doubt, which of Parsons, Kate McGarrigle) that show was outdoors. his tunes is better than that sounded great. one. I bet he answers honestly and not in his own favor.

RAPHAEL SAADIQ Saadiq is the kind of natural performer that seemed to go extinct 5after the ’60s. He’s the best thing to happen to R&B in a very long time, making good on the promise that Terence Trent D’Arby nearly turned into The were not a career. included in our top nine ... but they put on a heck of a show.

THE BASEBALL PROJECT It sounded like a ter- rible idea on paper: 3Music vets Steve Wynn (The Dream Syndicate), Scott Mc- Caughey (Young Fresh Fellows, R.E.M.) and Peter Buck (yes, him) creating original music about baseball. But Wynn and McCaughey could make a song cycle about funeral homes sound like radiant pop, and while there’s obvious glee in this project (Who doesn’t aspire to rhyme something with Calvin Schiraldi?), their subject also lends itself to gravitas. Like the sport itself, these songs are full of intrica- cies, fame and obscurity, love and heartbreak and death.

THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011 theCAT5.com C11 There’snopaddingthesestats

By Mark W. Smith It is simply the best vessel 4 has a stunning high-resolution Detroit Free Press on which to casually consume display and many had hoped that content — an experience that has screen would be included on the or Apple, the dropped users more completely iPad 2. and comfortably into the Web powerisinthe than any other device in history. Cover kudos It now boasts front- and rear- packaging. facing cameras, a dual-core 1 One of the most exciting things F about the iPad 2 is the innovative Unwrapping a GHz processor and nine times the graphic performance. cover designed to protect it. brand-new Apple device is The combination of those new The Smart Cover was con- features elevates the iPad 2 to a ceived alongside the iPad 2, an experience that no other new level of usability—amark Apple CEO Steve Jobs has said, technology company has yet unmatched by any other and it shows. It works seamlessly tablet maker. with the new tablet, snapping been able to match. The iPad 2 is now available in on and snapping closed using 18 flavors. Users can choose from magnets. And while Apple has been sizes of 16, 32 and 64 GB, between Opening the cover automati- chided for endlessly calling WiFi-only and 3G-connected cally turns the iPad 2 on, sav- models using Verizon or AT&T, ing the few seconds that were its devices “magical,”there and also between black and required to wake up the previous version. It’s like a refrigerator light are few better words to de- white. Prices range from $499 to $829. — always on when you need it. scribe this iPad 2, which is When the cover retracts and Dual cameras folds up, it serves as a stand in one-third thinner, 15 per- two positions — one perfect for The iPad 2’s front- and rear- typing and one for watching cent lighter and twice as fast facing cameras clearly are best video. as the original. suited for video capturing. The The covers come in 10 ver- higher quality camera on the sions — five vibrant colors in back takes 720p video, which APPLE IPAD 2: TECH SPECS polyurethane ($39) and five more Apple calls HD. n Size: subdued tones in leather ($69). The quality of that video is 9.5x7.31x.34 inches The genius here is that the commendable, although much n Weight: 1.33 pounds n Sizes: Smart Cover makes the iPad 2 less so in low-light conditions. 16 GB, 32 GB and 64 GB feel like an entirely new device. Paired with Apple’s new iMovie n Price: $499 to $829 n Network: And while it seems silly to suggest app ($4.99), the iPad 2 is an all-in- Available on AT&T and Verizon wireless networks; WiFi- buying a $500-plus device to use only model also available one video capturing and editing n Cameras: a $40 case, it now feels impossible device. Rear camera for 720p video recording; front VGA cam- era for video chat. Both also shoot stills. to use the iPad 2 any other way. The front-facing camera al- n Screen: lows the iPad to join the suite 9.7-inches, 1024x768 pixels at 132 pixels per inch Ahead of the others n Battery life: Up to 10 hours of devices linked to FaceTime, n Where to buy: Apple, Verizon, AT&T, Target, Best Buy and Walmart The iPad 2’s only compelling Apple’s video chatting software. stores. Also online at apple.com and att.com. Users can place video calls to competition, the Android-based other Apple devices, including Motorola Xoom, hit the market the iPod Touch, iPhone and Mac ing accomplishment given the Apple also upgraded the iPad’s without the features that were computers. iPad 2’s lighter weight and slim- Safari Web browser to make supposed to make it an iPad The FaceTime experience is mer build. navigating around the Internet killer: support for Flash video, slick and the quality of the video Without constant use, expect snappier. Pages load much faster microSD cards and Verizon’s next-generation 4G LTE wireless calls over WiFi is excellent. the iPad 2 to last several days than on the original iPad. network. (All of those features are Both the front- and rear-facing between charges, just like the Users of the original iPad cameras on the iPad 2 allow users coming “soon,”though, through original version. should see a similar bump in to take still photographs, but the software upgrades.) quality on both is less than poor. speed when they upgrade to the And it dropped with a gulp- Your one stop shop for Leading apps new software version now avail- Screen printing, signage Apple isn’t saying how many worthy price tag: $800. The iPad’s best feature contin- able. Placed next to the iPad 2, the and sports Apparel! megapixels the cameras have, but several reports rate the rear cam- ues to be Apple’s industry-lead- The iPad 2 continues Apple’s Xoom looks clunky and bloated. era at less than one megapixel. ing app ecosystem. Apple boasts feud with the popular video It’s not often that Apple gets “New Owner • New Location” format Flash. Don’t expect a Come see us at Apple rates the iPad 2’s battery more than 65,000 apps built for mentioned as the company with 5120 Twin City Hwy life at 10 hours. In my tests, the the iPad’s 9.7-inch touch screen compromise here, even as it a price advantage. But the Cali- Across from Wal-Mart iPad 2 exceeded that mark, reach- display. renders much of the Web’s video fornia tastemaker has managed ing just shy of 11 hours while The biggest competitor here, unwatchable on the iPad. to undercut its competition on streaming video through Netflix Google’s Android operating The screen is also disappoint- price. 409-548-4568 over WiFi. system, has fewer than 100 apps ingly the same as the model There is no better tablet on the WWW.RIPGRAPHIX.COM That’s an important engineer- built for a tablet screen. released last year. Apple’s iPhone market than the iPad 2.

C12 theCAT5.com THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011 barlistings

featured bars/clubs STAR BAR, 296 Crockett St. See ad, this page

Are we missing a nightclub or bar? Do we have the wrong information? Send an e-mail to info@thecat5. com with the subject line “Nightlife” sip of beaumont ALIBIS, 315 I-10 N the week THE BACK ROOM, 3871 Stagg Drive THE DRINK: Aramis CLUB 409, 2550 I-10 E. Martini DAIQUIRI BAYOU BAR & GRILL, 672 n WHY IT’S HOT: Orleans Citadelle Gin Reserve DITTO’S, 8025 College St. Vintage 2010 has only DIXIE DANCE HALL, 234 Crockett St. recently arrived in the E&LLOUNGE, 3130 Concord Road . This new EL DORADO SPORTS BAR, 6035 S. MLK release is the first vin- Guiseppe Barranco/The Enterprise Jr. Pkwy. Okee Dokee’s Club, 7665 College St. tage of Citadelle THE CLUBHOUSE, 7050 College Gin created GET DOWN BROWN, 2095 N. 11th St. with a THE SHOP, 6610 Gulfway Drive botani- THE GIG, 240 Crockett St. kountze TOP HAT, 2145 Memorial Blvd. cal mix GREEN FROG, 6130 Concord Road LAVERNE’S LOUNGE, 7227 US 69 S. NOONIES, 700 Vanderburg St. WOODYS, 8484 Central Mall Drive thought I CRAVE IT LUX LOUNGE, 6360 Phelan to age JERUSALEM HOOKAH, 3035 College liberty port neches well in oak. KING ARTHUR’S PUB, 2650 N. 11th St. DUKE PLACE, 904 Main St. RIVERSIDE TAVERN, 234 Grigsby Ave. Gin lovers, take THE LOGON CAFÉ, 3805 Calder Ave. note. Citadelle says its unique gin is as ICE HOUSE & SPORTS BAR, 2706 N. Main St. MACKENZIE’S PUB, 229 Dowlen Road silsbee great in a G&T as it is in a martini. They MAE’S, 1830 Irving St. nederland HILLTOP LOUNGE, 1396 Old Evadale Road shared with us a new cocktail recipe us- MADISON’S, 4020 Dowlen Road # 200 IRENE’S LOUNGE, 147 N. Twin City Hwy. HONKY TONK TEXAS, 2389 US 96 S. ing their vintage gin. n WHAT’S IN IT: Strega (a digestive NELL’S PLACE JAZZ & BLUES, 500 EMBERS CLUB, 3519 N. Twin City Hwy. TIN BARN, US 96 Franklin St. liqueur flavored with mint, fennel and saffron), 2 ounces Citadelle Gin Re- O’HEARN’S PUB, 87227 Fannett Road orange vidor serve, Pierre Ferrand Reserve, orange THE BARKING DOG LOUNGE, 109 5th OKE DOKEE, 7665 College St. VICKIES, 330 Hebert St. zest. Wash a martini glass with Strega. ONE FIVE BAR (Major League Grill), BAYOU CLUB, 2210 Simmons Drive other areas Place gin in a cocktail shaker filled 4430 Dowlen Road CLUB 87, 2348 Ivy Lane with ice. Stir. Strain into martini glass. BOOT SCOOTIN & BOOGIE, 4846 Quinn, PACE SETTER LOUNGE, 6358 Phelan COTTON’S CAY, 8379 Hwy 87 Sabine Pass Atomoize mist with Pierre Ferrand PATRICK’S PUB, 2013 S. MLK Jr. Pkwy. LUCILLE’S, 901 Simmons Drive Reserve cognac. Garnish with twist of RASCALS, 21721 FM 365 SOLLEYS DISCO CLUB, County Road orange zest. MOZ GRILL, 11845 Texas 62 N. 200, Brookeland THE RED ROOM, 260 Crockett St. n FIND IT: citadellegin.com NEON MOON, 4652 Colony Drive TEXAS LONGHORN CLUB, 2378 Hwy 109 SECRETS, 3990 Chaison St. SOMEWHERE IN TIME, 405 W. Cypress S, Vinton, La. Greg Morago SCOOBY BLUE’S, 6010 S. MLK Jr. Pkwy. SPANKY’S PUB, 1703 N. 16th St. WO’S FRIENDLY TAVERN, US 69, Village Mills SQUEEZE’S, 11325 Voth Road THE CAPISTRANO, 1209 Green Ave. STAR BAR, 296 Crockett St. Thursdays THE WEST BAR & GRILL, 6445 Calder port arthur TEQUILA ROK, 260 Crockett St. AARON’S THE CLUB, 1000 Houston Ave. College Night THE TICKET, 3684 College St. THE CAPRI CLUB, 8585 9th Ave. $1.50 pints THIRSTY’S, 229 Dowlen Road CASH’S, 8484 Central Mall Drive $3.00 pitchers TONGA CLUB, 5900 College St. COZEYS LOUNGE, 6238 Gulfway Drive TRADEWINDS TAVERN, MCM Elegante, DIAMOND 21, 1428 Houston Ave. $3.50 bombs 2355 I-10 DYLAN’S BAR & GRILL, 8601 9th Ave. $8.00 buckets of Coronitas WHISKEY RIVER, 3871 Stagg Drive E J’S, 416 Procter St. Fridays Saturdays bridge city GOOD TIMES, 3801 Hwy 73 BIG NASTY’S, 1195 Texas Ave. LANE’S LOUNGE, 720 Texas Ave. Club 8-0 KATHY’S, 610 N. John St. MADELINE’S, 1201 Procter St. Best of the 80’s, 90’s, and Today! crystal beach MIDNIGHT LOUNGE, 3885 Gulfway Drive Best Night in Town! NIKKI’S LOUNGE, 5300 Gulfway Drive Dance Contest @ 12:30am SHIPS WHEEL, 1271 Texas 87 SAKE SUSHI BAR & LOUNGE, 8691 9th Winner gets a CASH prize! SHARKY’S II, 1021 Texas 87 SILVER SPUR, 5320 Gulfway Drive TIKI BEACH BAR & GRILL, 1369 Texas 87 SPEAK EASY LOUNGE, 711 Procter St. 296 Crockett St. ~ Beaumont jasper THE BOUDAIN HUT, 5714 Gulfway Drive www.BeaumontStarBar.com HIDEAWAY CLUB, 2015 S. Wheeler St. THE PLACE, 5875 W Port Arthur Road THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011 theCAT5.com C13 nightlife Live freely,speak easy By Christina Jones Restrooms are: At the very [email protected] back, in the corridor under the exit @aomegajones on Twitter sign. The layout: Open, with plenty Speak Easy Lounge of seating, a big bar and a stage 711 Procter St., Port Arthur to sing your heart out in karaoke. (409) 982-1700 With tall ceilings, you’d think the acoustics would be off, but it Open: Wednesday through was easy to hear and be heard, Sunday whether on the stage or in the audience. The walls are all wood paneling and brick, and the object hen you ar- of my attention for a good while rive: was the beautiful chandelier hang- Take a ing overhead. moment be- The crowd: is friendly, entertain- W ing and generous. People really fore walking respond to a smile at this bar, and inside, so you can really want to laugh with you. It’s not a bar where you will sit in a corner appreciate the transfor- and be ignored. Your evening is shared with those around you, mation about to unfold friend or stranger. This involuntary before your eyes. While companionship is a large part of what makes Speak Easy Lounge a the exterior looks bat- must-not-miss bar experience. tered and weary, all of that The ambiance: feels like an open patio on a breezy summer melts away when you walk night, only without the bugs. Every- in this warm, comfortable thing about this bar feels warm, from the service to the amazing — and classy! — joint. wings. Yes, wings. Food is served Photos by Scott Eslinger/cat5 until 1 a.m., and the options are ABOVE: The Speak Easy full of tasty fried goodness. Sit Lounge on a Wednesday at the front if you’re on a diet, night in downtown Port because if you’re near the kitchen Arthur. there’s no way you’ll resist ordering LEFT: A patron leaves the something. Speak Easy Lounge. The pitch: Their motto, printed on the back of their menu, is that everyone is VIP to them. And it’s a motto they live up to. They are open Wednesdays through Sundays, with happy hours from 5-8 p.m. Wednesday is karaoke night, Thursday is steak night and Sundays are Swingout Matinee from 5-10 p.m. for those of you who love a good jitterbug. Don’t miss: Karaoke Wednes- days. Pick a number you know well, Verdict: because good performances are what’s in it (other than tequila), I started planning my well-received. One of my biggest but it came highly recommended next trip out to Speak Easy before karaoke don’ts (that I often violate) by the bartender on duty. What I closed my tab. For a special occa- is picking a song to which you only I do know is that it tastes great, sion, this bar really hits its mark. know the chorus. When in doubt, plus it comes with a cherry on top. But don’t wait for a date circled make a friend sing lead while you Tequila might not be your drink, on your calendar to visit. Drive play back-up. Those numbers are but there are plenty of other liquor over on a whim with a close friend more fun for the audience anyway. options in this well-stocked bar, so and prepare to settle in for the If you plan to drink: TryaTe- maybe make yours a Vodka Blue night. I believe you’ll be pleasantly quila Blue for $6.50. I don’t know instead. surprised!

C14 theCAT5.com THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011 bars Livin’behind la vida Logon

By Beth Rankin [email protected] percent agave. the bathroom. @BeaumontBeth on Facebook,Twitter Although it might seem incon- The posters read like a history & Foursquare venient not to be able to serve of Beaumont’s last 10 years of liquor at a bar, Bryant said the local music, and it’s pretty fasci- effrey Bryant is one folks at the Logon are more than nating stuff to behold. OK with it. Bryant said the Logon has of Beaumont’s most “We don’t want to be a full- a few big new things coming, notable bartenders, service bar,”Bryant said, adding including reggae music and that when the cafe opened origi- a monthly theater night that Jbut you won’t find nally, there was no alcohol at all. basically will be a live-action But over time, owners gave in to karaoke for those who love show him pouring tequila local music lovers who wanted tunes. to have a drink while listening to shots anytime soon. And Bryant himself runs a their favorite bands. Bryant slings drinks at the And a lot of local bands have karaoke night every Tuesday. “I’m the KJ,”he said with a Logon Cafe, a live music in- played here, including some acts — like Hayes Carll and Fred laugh. stitution at 3805 Calder Ave. Eaglesmith — who’ve gotten You can get a drink from Bryant just about anytime the that opened in 1999. pretty big since their time on the corner stage. Logon’s open, and you can Part restaurant, part cof- “It’s been a venue for a lot of hear live music — everything people,”Bryant said. “We’ve had from blues to acoustic acts to a fee house, part Internet cafe a lot of people come through.” giant big band that plays once and computer repair shop, That is evident when you look a month — while you sip your at the walls in the hall leading to beer or wine. this place is all character. And so is Bryant. “I’ve seen a lot of stuff in my time,”he said with a grin. Elite It’s not hard to spot Bryant posted up behind the bar, peer- ing through his black-frame glasses as he closes out tabs and opens Shiners for thirsty music lovers. The Logon only has a permit to sell beer and wine, so Bry- ant gets creative when serving drinks. The Logon can sell booze that’s fermented — like wine — rather than distilled, so they can still serve mixed drinks like pina coladas and daiquiris if they’re 861-1696 made with fermented alcohol. an Blvd. • Beaum 8 Phel ont 77 One of Bryant’s most recent 636 706 Beth Rankin/cat5 concoctions is what he calls the You can find Jeffrey Bryant behind the counter at the Logon Cafe a few Japanese Sunset, made with When only the Best will do! nights a week. Just speak up if you need to get his attention, because sake and mandarin orange. They his right ear’s a little bad after so many years of working around live also use a fermented version Wed 2pm-10pm • Thurs 2pm-12am • Fri-Sat 2pm-2am • Sun 2pm-10pm music. of tequila that’s made with 100 THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011 theCAT5.com C15 ‘High heels and high standards’

The E’blaja Fashion Coalition is about more than looks

By Larena Head and Beth Rankin [email protected]

t’s Wednesday night and the karaoke machine attheSpeakEasyLoungeinPortArthurisjust warming up, as are the locals, sipping mixed drinks at tables scattered around the dance floor.I W And in the back of the bar in a tiny three-stall bath- room, nine girls clamor to dress themselves in a space barely large enough to hold them, let alone their over- sized bags full of sequins, floral-print tops and harem pants. The ladies, members of the E’blaja Fashion Coali- v tion, dress hurriedly as one member grabs the mi- crophone and stalls by inviting women around the room to strut up on stage and show off what they’re wearing. The crowd goes wild for the impromptu pre- fashion show fashion show—awaitress even strutted across the stage with a tray of food balanced on her fingertips — but is clearly anxious to see the pros. By now, E’blaja (pronounced ee-blah-jay) has had nine shows and the modelesque young women (and one man) have changed in cars, alleys, even a Wal- Mart parking lot. But this bathroom, they say, is the smallest so far.

Photos by Scott Eslinger/cat5 E’blaja Fashion Coalition member Enrika Johnson, 20, of Houston, models at First Thursday at the Mildred.

C16 theCAT5.com THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011 Everyone has a senseofstyle

By Grace Mathis Melancon’s busi- [email protected] ness. She has built a unique hy does traveling boutique on the idea that it seem not everyone that wants to be W trendy. some “I feel like the things I like folks have an inherent are not the trends, they come sense of style and oth- either before or after,” she said. E’blaja Fashion “I always wanted the bag that Coalition Mem- ers don’t? You know, no one had. I started Lola’s be- bers Mattricia cause I thought, surely I can’t be Titus, 20, Jasmine those folks that you’re the only one who feels this way, Savoy, 19, and always saying, “I love who wants to be unique.” Chassity Fowler, Vanessa describes her own 18, all of Houston, what you’re wearing, but style as feminine and classic show off their I could never pull that with an edge, inspired by some outfits at First of her favorite musicians such Thursday at the off!” as Jenny Lewis, Kate Nash and Mildred. Are they really so different Lily Allen. from us average Joes and Janes, “I’m drawn to people that are or do they have secrets to share brave enough to not do exactly that can help all of us find our what everyone else is doing,” “The quick-changes walk last,” of the night, a contact list at the different story to tell, too.” own way sartorially? I spoke to she said. “That’s being fashion explains coalition member Jalissa E’blaja table had more than 40 The girls also gather at least some of the standout stylistas forward.” Williams. “The outfits with zips names of young men and women once a month to have “bonding of Southeast Texas to find some But for those who may just and ties go first.” interested in what Tezeno was nights” where they play cards, go answers. be figuring it out, “Try with one The models are young — rang- doing. bowling or watch TV at Tezeno’s piece at a time. Make one ing in age from 18 to 22 — and “I wanted to show some differ- apartment. At 21, E’blaja Fashion Coali- brave move in a typical outfit, technically inexperienced. But for ent styles and bring something “I love the fact that it’s more tion founder Ebo- and it goes from there.” a fashion group that’s only been different to Lamar,”she said of than just fashion shows,”said ny Tezeno has a around a few months, they’re participating in Rehab. “It went 19-year-old Joia Lison, a Lamar pretty solid sense When she talks already making waves by appear- great.” pre-pharmacy major from Lufkin. of herself and her to me about her ing at fashion events and in music That night, E’blaja Fashion But the core theme of their own style. enviable Jeffrey Campbell plat- videos. Coalition was born. group is all about the looks. “I’m a vintage girl,” she said. form booties that And as they’re asked to partici- The coalition has 18 members, “We get to set trends,”said she has on with pate in more and more events, both male and female. Chasity 18-year-old Chassity Fowler, a “Probably from being around denim cutoffs, one thing is for sure: This won’t Bobino, a 20-year-old Port Arthur Lamar psychology student from a vintage shawl be their last quick bathroom resident, is the only local native my grandma so Houston. much.” jacket, T-shirt and outfit change. in the group, but many of the girls On the runway, the girls tend a chain halter she Last November, coalition live in the area to attend Lamar Even so, her look changes to rock a lot of vintage mixed day to day, but always features made herself, it’s obvious that founder Ebony Tezeno had an University. with contemporary pieces. Their 22-year-old Chelsey Lopez has a sparkles, bright colors and big passion for unique things. abundance of clothing and a Fashion isn’t the only thing Speak Easy Lounge show was an rings. “For a long time, my friends head full of ideas. Lamar Univer- on their brains. The members’ amalgamation of ’70s and ’80s “When you look good, you feel and family would ask me, ‘What sity proved to have just the tool to studies include business, com- touches with plenty of sequins good,” she said. “First impres- help get some of her ideas off the munication, psychology and and eccentrically mixed patterns. are you wearing?’ ‘I don’t know, sions are important, and when something just told me this ground. pre-pharmacy. Locally, Tezeno said she likes people see you looking good, it Each year, the Lamar Fashion Each time the women partici- looks good together,’” she said. to pick up pieces at Treasure says something positive about Lopez is a student in the Merchandising Association hosts pate in a fashion walk, Tezeno House, a second-hand store you.” Rehab — an open market/con- takes the money they make and Fashion Merchandising depart- downtown. To those who are venturing ment at Lamar and hopes one cert combination popular with puts it into an account. Clothes “It’s cheap and they have very out and developing their sense day to be a personal stylist. shoppers and music fans alike — are purchased using that money, good customer service,”she said. of style, she says confidence is “Personal style is you, howev- on the Lamar campus. but every fall semester, Tezeno She also buys at local auctions key. er you feel comfortable and con- “One day I was sittin’ down and also doles out money to coalition and estate sales. “Be confident in yourself and fident,” she said. “Some goth thinkin’ ... I do a lot of shopping,” members to pay for books and Naturally, plenty of photos your look,” she said. “That plays kid at the mall has personal Tezeno said. “I thought, let’s get tuition. of the girls dressed to the nines a big part.” style, and so does the lady with together and dress up some girls.” “It’s basically to better their made it on Facebook. And a lots of turquoise jewelry and a As the owner of Lola’s Fresh That night, Tezeno rounded education,”she said. “Alot of couple months back, one of those long braid. It’s not my style, but up some girls and showcased (coalition members) live a differ- Produce, style is Vanessa it’s still style.” E’blaja’s first looks. By the end ent lifestyle. A lot of them have a COALITION, page C18 THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011 theCAT5.com C17 A

Photos by Scott Eslinger/cat5 Members of the E’blaja Fashion Coalition show off their outfits at First Thursday at the Mildred and at Speak Easy Lounge in Port Arthur.

COALITION said. “I’ve never seen a whole Nederland. On April 21, the E’blaja and she said she plans to dress team of people who are dressed “The first outfit I tried on, I was Fashion Coalition will be part of Just Brittany in a skirt made by Continued from page C17 so well.” like, ‘Oh my God, I like this,’” Just the Lamar FMA fashion show Beaumont designer Kayla Harper. Tezeno said the night of the Brittany said. “She’s gonna be my — themed Trapped in Time — And at their April 21 show, photos caught someone’s eye shoot — for all its fun — was also stylist from now on.” which features looks from the E’blaja will unveil some new and got the coalition its biggest a lot of hard work and kept the The recording artist said that ’60s and ’70s. members. Teeny, tiny new mem- break yet: An appearance in Cash girls on set until early the next these days, everywhere she goes, And the group is going for bers. Money Records artist Just Brit- day. she’s constantly complimented round two in the video world: Lil E’blaja will be a fashion co- tany’s latest music video for her “It was very tiresome,”Tezeno on her outfits. Just Brittany has asked them to alition for kids. Its goal is to help single “Slumber Party.” said. “It got real real. We got “I just think now my clothes appear in the music video for her children find their own personal “I was browsing on Facebook hungry.” speak for me before I walk in next single, “Color.” style. In the future, the mini fash- But Tezeno’s work paid off, and the room,”she said. And she has The coalition might be starting and I seen the way they was ionistas will walk with E’blaja at dressing and it was just like way after the video she was named Tezeno to thank for that. to pop up all over YouTube, but some of their events. different,”Just Brittany said. “The Just Brittany’s personal stylist. “Who knew that I would be don’t expect to see any video girl way she dressed is like what I had She now creates looks for the styling a celebrity in just three stereotypes. “The kids are the future,” in mind for myself.” recording artist for everything months?” Tezeno said. “If you put “We’ve got high heels and high Tezeno said. Tezeno did the styling for Just from videos to performances your mind to it, you can do it.” standards,”Fowler said. And E’blaja’s future is looking Brittany and the E’blaja girls, who to a recent appearance at Bun On April 1, Tezeno will style The “Color” video shoot is pretty bright, too, filled with bold appeared in the music video as B’s birthday party at South by Just Brittany for her show at the planned to take place at a bo- patterns, plenty of sequins and participants in an over-the-top Southwest. TicketonCollegeStreet.Youcan tanical garden in the beginning heels as high as their expecta- slumber party. For a recent public appear- bet the whole E’blaja crew will of April. tions. “Everything looked like it was ance, she put Just Brittany in a also be on hand, styled to the Tezeno will be styling Just Brit- “Just be on the lookout,” well put together,”Just Brittany pair of shorts from IZ Resale in nines as well. tany and the members of E’blaja, Tezeno said.

C18 theCAT5.com THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011 AbitaboutE’blaja

By Larena Head [email protected] E’blaja Fashion Coalition mem- bers Victoria Mason, 19, of Ebony Tezeno, 21, Houston Houston, left, and Kyiera Wil- liams, 18. Lamar University business major with a minor in fashion How would you describe your personal style? Vintage Marcos Bravo, 21, Houston What are your favorite places Lamar University general business to shop in Southeast Texas? IZ major Resale, Treasure House How would you describe your What are your favorite places to personal style? Urban, fly, suave, go out in Southeast Texas? Ap- versatile plebee’s What are your favorite places to shop in Southeast Texas? Who are your style icons? Rihan- Sole na, Katy Perry Purpose Something in your closet you What are your favorite places to go out in Southeast Texas? IHOP can’t live with out? Rings. Acces- Who are your style icons? Kanye sories finalize your look. West Something in your closet you Chasity Bobino, 20, can’t live with out? Hats — I Port Arthur collect various styles from Polo to Kango. And fitted hats. Lamar University communications major Chassity Fowler, 18, How would you describe your Houston personal style? Fun, edgy, and expensive Lamar University psychology major What are your favorite places to How would you describe your per- shop in Southeast Texas? Thrift sonal style? Eccentric, girly What are your favorite places to stores, IZ Resale, Yaya Club What are your favorite places to shop in Southeast Texas? Express, go out in Southeast Texas? XXI, Macy’s Pap- What are your favorite places to padeaux, Tinseltown go out in Southeast Texas? Buf- Who are your style icons? Kim falo Wild Wings, Applebee’s Kardashian, Ciara Who are your style icons? Kim Something in your closet you Kardashian, Angela Simmons, can’t live with out? Heels! Amber Rose Something in your closet you Mattricia Titus, 20, Houston can’t live with out? Purses

Lamar University fashion retail & Joia Lison, 19, Lufkin merchandising student How would you describe your Lamar University pre-pharmacy personal style? Versatile major What are your favorite places to How would you describe your per- sonal style? shop in Southeast Texas? XXI, but Laid back, girly, classy What are your favorite places to I also like to browse at Goodwill What are your favorite places shop in Southeast Texas? Wet to go out in Southeast Texas? Seal, XXI, Body Shop for jewelry What are your favorite places to Buffalo Wild Wings, Cheddar’s, Pap- go out in Southeast Texas? Buf- padeaux Enrika Johnson, 20, Houston What are your favorite places to Bar falo Wild Wings, Cheddar’s, Cafe Who are your style icons? Rihan- shop in Southeast Texas? Ebony’s Who are your style icons? Katy Del Rio Lamar University biology major na, Jennifer Lopez, Beyonce closet (laughs) Perry, Beyonce, Rihanna Who are your style icons? Kimora Something in your closet you from Houston What are your favorite places Something in your closet you Lee Simmons How would you describe your can’t live with out? Nail polish. I to go out in Southeast Texas? can’t live with out? Hair acces- Something in your closet you recommend Urban Outfitters, O.P.I. personal style? I dress according Suga’s Deep South Cuisine & Jazz sories — flowers, headbands and can’t live with out? Earrings! I and Jordana to my mood. Bar, Tokyo Steak House & Sushi bows have lots of them. THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011 theCAT5.com C19 out Thecafethatdine gravy built

come as a surprise to customers Richard’s Cafe who knew Richard’s back on Col- lege, but there now is a nightclub cooksupfood inside! A Touch of Class Club is open from 8 p.m. to midnight Thursday that’s good for and is open even later Friday and Saturday. Sundays it’s open 6 p.m. to midnight. Expect to pay a cover the soul of $5 before 11 p.m., $10 after. Ladies night is Thursday with a by Grace Mathis cover of $3. [email protected] I recommend getting there later rather than earlier as this place starts moving around 11. RICHARD’S CAFE Mixed drinks are available, along 1087 Magnolia St., with a fab dance floor, live DJ and a Beaumont smoking patio. (409) 835-7063 And you’ll find the freshest fried bar food in town, of course. There 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Monday is no microwave in this establish- through Saturday and 8 p.m. ment, y’all. until late Thursday through Atmosphere: From the outside, Sunday this is one of those places you probably wouldn’t take a second glance at when driving by. he menu: Photos by Scott Eslinger/cat5 Step in the doors and it is com- Is all Richard’s Cafe serves up a soulful lunch, then turns into a nightclub after the sun goes down. pletely down-to-earth and comfort- gravy, baby. Well, able. lima beans and more. Add a dense For lunch you will find folks in there’s definitely serving of corn bread or a dinner scrubs, business suits and Nomex. T roll to your meal or try a huge bowl Everyone is here because they a lot of gravy of gumbo. want to eat good food. here, and that’s also the Oh yeah, and don’t forget the The place is large while still motto for this homey, un- late-night weekend fry menu that retaining the at-home feel, and the includes melt-in-your-mouth catfish, eclectic furnishings give it a lot of expected gem. chicken or pork chop with fries and character. a roll. At night, dress to impress. This is cafeteria-style, Prices: Are straightforward. One Find the restrooms: In the very home-cooked soul food entrée choice with three sides and back to the left, then on the right. roll or cornbread is $7.99, and if They are the one-person kind, like your mama makes. you have an average appetite, you but us ladies can move in and out And when you visit you will definitely need a doggie bag. faster thanks to the full-length mir- The oxtail meal will set you back ror right outside the door. No need just might find Mama $10.99 and the jumbo gumbo (my to be in the bathroom to touch up Richard hanging around, description, not theirs) is $8.99. your makeup. Recommendations: A customer Extras and specials: Well, I telling you about all the who confessed to patronizing Rich- think it’s pretty special that there’s ard’s almost every day when it was goodness you get to a nightclub inside a soul food res- on College highly recommended Mary Richard, 70, opened Richard’s Cafe with her family in the early taurant in Beaumont. choose from. the fish courtbouillon when they ’90s when they moved back to the area. The cafe started in Kountze Just sayin’. The verdict: have it. and moved to College Street before arriving at its Magnolia location. This is called soul And choices you have. For If you are a pork chop fan, this food — not health food — for a entrees, you’ll find turkey wings, is definitely the place to have one. reason. pig feet, beef tips, barbecue ribs, Standout sides are okra & crust. Perfect. note, if you are smart enough to If you want to feel touched by an meatloaf, hamburger steaks, baked tomatoes (no slime in sight, okra And the same Richard’s cus- eat some catfish when you’re at angel, come get some down-home chicken, oxtail or smothered pork haters), greens and yams. tomer who recommended the fish the club (see below), please make Southern cooking in an environ- chops. Sides include mustard Don’t miss: Dessert! The sweet courtbouillon also recommended sure to ask for some of da bomb ment that makes you feel like greens, yams, rice or corn bread potato pie was the perfect ending I try the pecan candy. Um, yeah, I homemade tartar sauce. They you’re at grandma’s. dressing, mac & cheese, mashed to a hearty meal, with a light, fluffy will. don’t call it that, I do. And then come back later to get potatoes, okra and tomatoes, baby sweet potato filling and firm, flaky And on a completely different The drink situation: This might your dance on.

C20 theCAT5.com THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011 dineout

Great China, 3135 Calder St. √ Tacos La Bamba, 2005 Calder St. JASPER ret Ave. featured restaurants Guadalajara, 4414 Dowlen Rd Ste 101 Taqueria Lili, 1590 Franklin St. Billy’s Bar B Que, 1601 N Main St. KOUNTZE √ Hamburger Depot, 1652 Cardinal Taste of China, 955 I-10 S Casseddys Resturant & Club, 249 E Back 40 Bar B Q, 2655 Colonial Dr. CARMELA’S, 3925 Calder Drive, 790 Neches St. Tex Mex Casa Blanca Grill, 6155 Eastex Gibson St. Caroline’s Quality and Quantity BBQ, Ave., Beaumont, and 1203 S. Hemingways, MCM Elegante, 2355 I 10 Fwy Catfish Cabin, 2957 US Highway 96, 320 3rd U.S. 69, Nederland See ad Jasons Deli, 535 Dowlen Rd., 112 Texas Crawfish Co. 12647 US Hwy 90 302 Lake Drive Dee Des Chicken Shack, 340 N Pine St. this page Gateway St. Tokyos, 4438 Dowlen Road, 1970 I-10 S Chateau Steak House, 610 W Gibson Mama Jacks Restaurant, 215 S Pine St. JD’s Seafood, 4140 E Lucas Dr., 1652 W Tonys Barbecue and Steakhouse, 3375 Chinese Kitchen, 760 S Wheeler St. Cardinal Dr. Calder Ave. El Taco Amigo, 400 S Main St. LUMBERTON √ Read about tese restaurants in JD Seafood & Poorboy’s, 1480 Wash- √ Uncle Henrys Tamales, 4358 E Lucas, Elijahs Cafe, 490 12 Live Oak Rd. 201 W Catered Cuisine, 250 W Candlestick Ceck, Please at tecat5.com/dining ington Blvd. 3901 Calder Gibson St. Catfish Cabin Too, 192 Hwy 96 Jerusalem Hookah Cafe, 3035 College √ Vautrot’s Cajun Cuisine, 13350 √ Know of a missing restaurant or Hamburger Depot, 282 S Wheeler St. √ Chucks Bar-BQ and Burgers, FM 105, Highway 105 wrong information? Send an e-mail Jo Jo’s China Bistro, 3939 Dowlen Rd. Jason Sub Station, 639 E Milam St. Evadale to info@tecat5.com with the subject The West Bar & Grill, 6445 Calder Ave Joes Crab Shack, 3825 I-10 S. Jasper Roadhouse, 4108 US 96 N Crazy Joses, 900 S Main St. line “Restaurants” Willy Rays BBQ 145 I-10 N Johnny Carino’s Italian, 3805 I-10 S. Lone Star Buffet, 500 S Wheeler St. Dippity’s No 1, 815 S Main St. Wings To Go, 4275 Dowlen JuJu’s Cajun Craawfish Shak, 18277 Martins Mexican Restaurant, 410 N Grand China Buffet, 1320 Highway 96 S BEAUMONT FM 365 Zydeco Diner, 270 Crockett St. Wheeler St. HotWok,76NLHSDrive √ 10 de Mayo Mexican, 8350 College Kampus Korner, 4637 Rolfe Christo- Marys Tamales, 1660 Bevil Loop Kotoyama, 215 S Main St. √ Abbie’s Imports, 5335 Fannet Road pher BRIDGE CITY Novrozskys Hamburgers, 610 W La Casa Manana Restaurant, 120 W Applebees, 4375 Dowlen Katharine and Company, 1495 Calder California Corn Dog, 765 Texas Ave. Gibson St. Candlestick Drive Bandos Express, 215 N 11th St. King Palace Cafe, 4328 Dowlen Rd. Chicken Express, 2250 Texas Ave. R&EGrocery & Cafe, 12183 Hwy 63 Napoli’s Italian Restaurant, 835 S. Baytown Seafood, 3825 College St. L&C Hot Deli & Cafe, 1705 College St. Empire Buffet, 715 Texas Ave. Restaurants In Wings Over, 4108 Hwy Main St. Bayou Cafe, 1255 N Major Dr La Casita, 9297 College St. Pinehurst Barbecue, 2100 Texas Ave. 96 N Peggy Kyles Catfish Kitchen, 835 N √ Beaumont Fried Chicken Pizza and La Cantina, 4555 Dowlen Rd., 2050 I-10 Sun Wok Chinese, 2429 Texas Ave. Stump Restaurant, Piney Point Plz Main St. Grill, 2305 Calder Ave. √ La Morenita Meat Market 850 S. 11th Tequila’s Mexican, 1085 Texas Ave. Super China Buffet, 315 S Wheeler St. R & N Seafood, 118 N Main St. Big Johns Grill, 1465 Gladys St. St. √ Ticos Cuban Cafe, 1145 Texas Ave. Ta Mollies Mexican Restaurant, 1275 S Rafael’s Mexican Restaurant, 351 S BJ’s Soul Food, 8050 Windhaven St. √ La Salsita, 612 Washington Blvd. Wheeler St. Main St. Boomtown BBQ, 5555 Calder Labamba Taqueria, 1505 College St. BUNA The Catfish Hut, 133 Private Rd 6180 Richards Cafe, 625 N Lhs Dr. Thump Restaurant, Hwy 255 Brian’s Place, 595 Orleans St. Ste. 100 Bistro Lemonde, 3199 Dowlen Chat & Chew Bar-B-Que, 413 County √ Broussard’s Links Plus Ribs, 2930 S Logans Roadhouse, 4185 Dowlen Road 833 NEDERLAND 11th St. Lone Star Steakhouse Seafood, 6685 Fausto Fried Chicken, 34074 US 96 S KIRBYVILLE √ Bobby’s Homestyle Cooking, 2750 Bryan’s 797, 797 N 5th St. Eastex Fwy Our Place Cafe, 34331 US 96 S Dave’s Java Cafe, 1902 S Margaret Nederland Ave. Buffalo Wild Wings, 3939 Dowlen Rd. √ Major League Grill, 3195 Dowlen Senor Toros, 34947 US 96 S Elijahs Cafe, 505 N Margaret Ave. Butcher’s Korner 1155 Boston Ave. √ Cafe Del Rio, 2830 I-10 E Road √ Hamburger Depot, 1211 N Margaret Carmella’s Mexican Restaurant, 1203 √ Carlito’s Mexican Restaurant, 890 Mitch’s Smokehouse, 2197 Washing- ChINA Jenny’s Fried Chicken, 901 S Margaret S Highway 69 Amarillo St., 3925 Calder Ave. ton Blvd. Chads Kitchen Korner, 408 S 23rd St. Diamond S Diner, 190 W Hwy 90 Lazy H Smoke House of Texas, 811 N √ Carmela’s Mexican, 3925 Calder Monterey House West, 3015 Dowlen Margaret Ave. Chris’ Rib Shack, 602 N Highway 69 Rd Ste 190, 1090 S 11th St. Carrabbas, 1550 I-10 S Mama’s Kountry Kitchen, 266 FM 363 √ Daviss Donuts and Deli, 1706 Hwy 365 New York Pizza & Pasta, 790 Neches, CRYSTAL BEACh Casual Entrees, 6025 Phelan Blvd. Pizza Pro, 1100 N Margaret Ave. √ Eaton Meats, 2505 Nederland Ave. 4405 Calder Coconuts Restaurant & Pub, 1021 Cattle Company, 5055 Eastex Fwy. Tom Jr’s Meat Market, 1117 S Marga- GeoBurrito, 1629 S Highway 69 Novrozskys, 3925 Dowlen Texas 87 √ Chaba Thai Cuisine, 4340 E. Lucas Olive Garden, 585 I-10 N Stingaree, Stingaree Road at the Drive, 6434 Phelan Blvd. Intercoastal Canal Osaka Grill, 6155 Eastex Fwy Ste 676 Chick On A Grill, 612 Washington Tiki Beach Bar & Grill, 1639 Texas 87 Chilis, 110 I-10 S Outback Steakhouse, 2060 I-10 S Paige’s Seafood, 4195 Gladys China Garden, 3871 Stagg Dr Ste 200 GROVES Pancho’s Taqueria, 150 Mariposa China Hut, 3675 College St. Baytown Seafood, 4830 Twin City Papa Georges Bar B Q, 3690 College Chuck’s Sandwich Shop, 493 Pearl St. Hwy Pappadeaux Seafood, 4040 I-10 S Chula Vista Mexican, 1135 N 11th St. Big Daddy’s Grill, 3848 Main Ave. √ Patillos Bar-B-Que, 610 N. 11th St. CiCi’s Pizza, 5882 Eastex Fwy China Inn, 4848 Twin City Hwy. Pei Wei Asian Diner, 3050 Dowlen Rd Crazy Joses, 6420 Phelan Blvd. √ Colichias Restaurant, 5601 E Park- Dana’s Place, 9180 Broun St. Pho’s Four Seasons, 3690 College way St. De Buey-Y-Vaca, 1801 College St. Pine Tree Lodge, 3296 Pinetree Road Courtyard Cafe, 4321 Lincoln √ Rao’s Bakery, 2596 Calder Ave., 4440 Carmela’s √ Delo’s Good Eats, 2898 Fannett Road Famous Buffet, 5080 Twin City Hwy. Dowlen Road, 3080 College St. Dons Seafood & Steak, 2475 Gladys Fast Freddy’s BBQ, 3249 Pure Atlantic Mexican Restaurant √ Rancho Grande, 230 Crockett St. Dot’s Sandwich Shop, 8399 Fannett JW’S Grill, 6299 39th St. R & W Seafood, 510 Highway 124 El Potrillo Mexican Restaurant, 5920 √ Larry’s French Market, 3701 Pure NEDERLAND BEAUMONT Eastex Fwy Red Lobster, 2820 I-10 E Atlantic 1203 S. Hwy 69 3925 Calder Ave. √ Elena’s Mexican, 1865 College St., Richard’s Cafe, 1087 Magnolia √ Mo-mo’s Diner, 6299 39th St. 6290 Phelan Blvd. Ryan’s, 4260 Dowlen Road P & J Seafood, 3301 Pure Atlantic Rd. 409.729.0760 409.898.8435 Eskimo Hut, 5405 College St. Sartin’s West, 1990 I-10 S Papa Joe’s, 7111 Washington St. Monday – Thursday 8 am–9pm Friday & Saturday 8 am – 10 pm √ Fertitta’s Finer Foods, 1155 S 11th √ Saltgrass, 325 I-10 N Pit Stop Food Stand, 2921 Bryan Ave. Floyd’s Seafood & Steakhouse, Seafood Shack, 150 Mariposa St. P-Reauxs Cajun Cafe, 3130 Lay Ave. 2290 I-10 S Sertinos Cafe, 5657 Eastex Fwy Southern Kitchen, 2924 Ruby Drive Frankie’s Italian Grill, 105 I-10 N Shannon’s By Lake Cafe, 10952 Kole- Tony’s BBQ, 4700 Twin City Hwy Fuddruckers, 4545 Dowlen Rd. may Dr. √ Gino’s Pizza & Pasta, 4318 Dowlen Sonny S Barr B Q, 725 Woodrow St. hAMShIRE GeoBurrito, 4230 Calder, 4438 Dowlen Sugas, 461 Bowie St. Carmalita’s Mexican Restaurant, Golden Dragon, 6420 Eastex Fwy √ Szechuan Chinese, 597 S 11th St 24588 Highway 124 Golden Seafood, 597 S 11th St. Tacos Con Madre, 1045 Monterrey Silver Spoon Cafe, 17808 Wilber Road THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011 theCAT5.com C21 dineout

Grand Buffet, 2250 Highway 365 Neches Cafe, 2401 Port Neches Ave. √ Guidry’s Galley, 3914 N Twin City Hwy. Sea Ranch Cafe, 1305 Magnolia Ave. √ J Martin Seafood Market, 3324 Ned- The Diner, 301 Grigsby Ave. erland Ave, John’s Grill, 112 11th St. SABINE PASS JVs Seafood, 3922 N Twin City Hwy Olde Time Diner, 5404 Gulfway S La Suprema Tortilla Bakery, Hwy 365 Skeeter’s Bar & Grill, 5553 Dowling Rd La Suprema Mexican Restaurant, 3106 Highway 365 SILSBEE Lucky Seafood Restaurant, 3922 N Twin City Hwy Bird Nest, 510 Highway 327 W √ Margarette’s Tamale Stand, 2307 N Cajun Kitchen, 302 Hendricks Drive Twin City Hwy Chief Chin’s Chinese Seafood Restau- Novrozsky’s Hamburgers, 3504 Hwy 365 rant, 900 Highway 96 S Rao’s Bakery, 3504 Hwy 365 Joe’s Pizza & Pasta, 205 Highway 327 Ranch House Cafe & Grill, 3819 N Twin Mi Pueblo, 980 Highway 327 E City Hwy Novrozskys Hamburgers, 1170 High- √ Sanderson’s Restaurant and Bar, way 327 E 2095 Highway 69 N Sartins Seafood, 3520 Nederland Ave. Munchies Ole Inc, 1194 N 5th St. The Schooner, 1507 S Highway 69 West Texas Style Bar B Q, 3078 US Highway 96 N Sew Tasty, 111 9th Ave. Sun Wok Chinese, 1624 Nederland SOUR LAKE Taco Rey Mexican Restaurant, 1505 Nederland Ave. Bellows, 125 S Merchant St. √ The Tamale King, 2495 N Twin City Big Thicket Pizza, 16860 Highway 326 Tuscany Italian Restaurant, 3600 High- Goodfella’s Restaurant and Pizza, 785 way 365 Ste D Highway 105 W El Jalapeno Mexican Restaurant, 104 S ORANGE Merchant St. Acapulco, 2709 Macarthur Drive Mother’s Kitchen 125 S Merchant St AR & Sons Tamales, 1501 Green Ave. foods Scott Eslinger/cat5 Avila’s Mexican Restaurant, 2615 fav VIDOR Western Ave. Bar B Que Depot Inc, 1030 Forest Ln Bella Casa Restaurant, 3535 W Park PATILLO’S BBQ √ Fay’s Catfish Connection, 1215 Hwy 12 Big Daddys Crawfish, 10707 Bessie 610 N 11th St, BEAUMONT Heights Road Great Wall Chinese, 345 N Main St. Bojangle’s, 2486 Martin L King Jr The low-down: Patillo’s BBQ is a Beaumont institution and has been for the past 99 years. The location Hamburger Place, 4795 N Main St. Burger Town, 210 Spooner on 11th Street has been there since 1981. Hush Puppy Restaurant, 1202 N Main Cajun Eatery, Inc, 630 S Naquin Road I recommend: The two-meat plate with three sides — $9.75 Side of boudain links — $3.75. This plate Ming’s Buffet, 840 N Main St. California Rib Hut, 3720 N 16th St. was piled with sliced beef and pork with sides of potato salad, beans and rice. Sliced white bread, pickles Novrozskys Hamburgers, 1035 N Main Chilis, 292 Strickland Dr. and onions come with pretty much everything. Don’t forget to say hi and leave a good tip for Miss Gloria, √ Paul’s Seafood, 7226 Hwy 12 Chucks Eats, 802 W Cherry Ave. who can hook you up with some of the finest BBQ Southeast Texas has to offer. Red Wagon Cafe, 445 West Fwy Cornbreads Cafe, 2246 Macarthur Tip: Some say Patillo’s has one of the best jukebox selections in Beaumont, ranging from Sam Cooke to Senor Toro, 1298 N Main St. Crazy Joses, 180 Strickland Drive Wilco to Lucinda Williams. Five plays for a buck, so bring some jukebox money. Wright’s Bar-B-Que, 1096 N Main St. Decal Pit Stop, 407 S 44th St. Doc’s Restaurant LLC, 8920 Hwy 12 WINNIE Fusion Grill, 6305 Steeple Chasse Star and Moon Cafe at Shangri La, Jasons Deli, 3100 Highway 365 Rancho Grande, 7670 Memorial Blvd. Al-T’s Seafood & Steak House, 338 Garys Cafe, 2650 Lutcher Drive 2111 W Park Ave. John’s Seafood, 2200 Bluebonnet Ave. Savannah Grill, 2021 Savannah Ave. Spur 5 Hwy. 124 Guadalajara, 95 Strickland Drive Taste of Orange, 2610 I-10 W √ Judice’s French Market and Deli, Sertinos Cafe, 7675 Memorial Blvd. Burrito Express, 1406 Hwy. 124 JV Seafood, 1102 W Park Ave. 3005 Seventh St Sinh’s Restaurant, 3708 Gulfway Hunan Café, 43628 I-10 PORT ARTHUR JBs Barbeque, 5750 Old Highway 90 K-Boy’s Bar-B-Que, 526 19th St. Smokin’ Dan’s BBQ, 3819 N. Twin City Lercy’s Diner…2122 S. Hwy. 124 Kam Hwa Buffet, 150 Strickland Drive Arthurs, 3901 Highway 73 Kelley’s Kitchen, 600 Austin Ave. Soriano’s Bar B Que, 6049 W Port Nutty Jerry’s Steak House, 18291 Bbq Stop, 6313 W Port Arthur Road Luigis Italian Grill, 3105 Edgar Brown La Cantina Mexican, 7960 Memorial Arthur Road Englin Road Betty’s Place, 2030 11th Ave. Mauri’s Diner, 10930 Highway 12 La Hacienda Mexican Restaurant, Taqueria Cotija, 4040 Gulfway Drive Pappas Restaurant, 2626 S. Hwy. 124 Novrozskys Hamburgers, 501 N 16th The Boudain Hut, 5714 Gulfway 7700 9th Ave. Tequila’s Mexican Restaurant, 4231 Taqueria Los Sombreros, 510 Hwy. 124 √ Old Orange Cafe, 914 W Division Bruce’s Seafood Deli, 6801 Ninth Ave. La Morenita Taqueria and Meat, 3647 Gulfway Drive √ √ Orange Seafood & Steak House, 3104 Buccaneer Seafood, 7600 Spring- N Twin City Hwy Wow! This Is It Down Home Cook- WOODVILLE Edgar Brown Dr meadow Lane Las Palmas Mexican Restaurant, 2446 ing, 1629 Woodworth Blvd. Dogwood Cafe, 419 S Magnolia St. Peggy’s On The Bayou Cajun Café, Buffalo Wild Wings, 8845 Memorial Memorial Blvd. Tony’s Bbq & Steakhouse, 2749 Me- Elijah’s Cafe, 810 S Magnolia St. 2682 E Roundbunch Road Chili’s Grill & Bar 1175, 8665 Memorial Los Gamos Restaurant, 1631 Duff Dr. morial Blvd. Pinehurst BBQ, 100 Strickland Drive Dong Vien, 2523 Jefferson McAlister’s Deli, 8393 Memorial Blvd. Vince’s Seafood, 5044 Gulfway Drive Fajita Mexicant Restraurant, 1856 US Highway 69 S Richard’s Cafeteria, 304 Widgeon Efrain & Ana’s Deli, 6048 Gulfway Mi Yum Vietmanese Cuisine, 8597 9th PORT NECHES La Enchilada Mexican Restaurant, Romano’s 8 31 Italian, 1201 N 16th St. Far East Restaurant, 2523 Jefferson Monaco’s Italian Cuisine, 4309 4th St. 1127 S Magnolia St. Senor Toro’s, 3130 N 16th St. Garcia Taqueria, 5250 Gulfway Drive Moon Palace, 3437 N Twin City Hwy Billy Joe Barbecue, 2029 Magnolia Magnolia Cafe, 1010 S Magnolia St. Shirley’s Cafe, 408 Schley Ave. Gulf Coast Seafood, 6137 W Port New Hong Kong Chinese, 3966 Gulf- Celeste’s Tamales, 3102 Saba Lane Shrimpboat Seafood & Chuckwagon, Arthur Road way Drive Fred C Gregory Pizza, 1501 Magnolia Tampicos Tacos, 418 S Magnolia St. 18606 Highway 62 S Handlebar & Grill, 8601 Ninth Ave. Nicks Pit 1, 2548 Gulfway Drive Joe’s Pizza, 2839 Nall St. The Tree Restaurant, 7503 Hwy 69 S Spankys Restaurant & Pub, 1703 N 16th St. Icy Darylnn, 1249 Gulfway Drive RBJ’s Cafe, 3349 Gulfway Drive √ La Fiesta, 2337 Nederland Ave. Zs Fillin Station, 307 N Magnolia St.

C22 theCAT5.com THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011 Adineout food fairy tale with a happy ending

By Alex McGuffie sweet after your meal, don’t think (409) 880-0793 that the Golden Croissant limits itself to breakfast. Fresh-baked CHECK, PLEASE cookies, brownies, pastries and more line the glass shelves in the restaurant. You can order ost great stories fresh-baked King Cakes or wed- have at their ding cakes of figurine bread in the shapes of logos, lobsters or Mcrux something clowns. made of gold. A The decor in the restaurant was festive — French Quarter touch of gold, an egg of gold meets French town square. It was orafleeceofgoldmake comforting to the girl to know that she could come back to the dream worlds go round. restaurant any time from 6 a.m. to6p.m. Or end them. The girl now is content, satis- fied that her days of croissant- In this tale, a girl moves south, seeking are at an end. far away from loved ones and ev- Now all she seeks is the erything familiar. This new land perfect sandwich. was a mix of two distinct cultures, both proud and flavorful. There were new traditions she learned to love and celebrate, making them part of her own. Once in the new land, she experienced many new things, many of them barbecued, some of them fried. She attended thou- sands of festivals and made new acquaintances but never found Photos by Alex McGuffie/cat5 the right person who could point Golden Croissant’s chicken almond sandwich is made from marinated her toward the perfect home- made morning treat. chicken breast and shredded with roasted almonds and is, of course, served True, she saw the merit in on a croissant. doughnuts (and an occasional doughnut burger). She acknowl- searched, it could be found. She hopped into her carriage and variety of edged the savory perfection of tried anywhere food was served drove as fast as was legal to Mid- danish. kolaches and the appearance of — gas stations, bowling alleys, County. Since she crawfish in morning meals. But roadside trucks and all manner Walking into the bakery was arrived after there was something missing. of restaurants. like a dream. There was also a 11 a.m., the girl The light and fluffy, flaky side of Six hundred and 61 days into drive-thru, but she opted for full enjoyed a sand- breakfast proved elusive. her exploration of this new land, immersion to make sure this wich, served on one of There was surely a golden she found it. wasn’t a mirage. the golden croissants. You can croissant to be had somewhere in A friend made an offhand And it wasn’t. choose from cheese, ham and Want to go? comment about a restaurant The Golden Croissant has cheese, roast beef and cheese, the Golden Triangle. But where Where: could such a fine French treat be baking its own croissants. Her been in Southeast Texas for turkey and cheese, chicken Golden Croissant, found? ears perked up. Could it be? The about 30 years and offered a almond, shrimp, tuna and triple 2904 Highway 365, Nederland There were French Cajuns run- girl, by polite eavesdropping, friendly smile when she entered. club. All sandwiches are served For more information: (409) ning amok, but never the perfect discovered The Golden Croissant For breakfast, the bakery serves with a side of chips. 727-5399 croissant. The girl knew if she in Nederland. She immediately croissants, eclairs, muffins and a If you’re feeling like something THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011 theCAT5.com C23 cultureart

Greg Busceme, executive di- rector of The Art Studio, Inc.

Below are some of the more than 50 entries received for the 2011 TASIMJAE show last Friday evening.

Photos by Scott Eslinger/cat5 onAculturedwalk the wild side

By Michelle Cate [email protected] @michellecat5 on Twitter TASIMJAE OPENING While it’s a huge honor just to Busceme, TASI director. ASIMJAE is not to be confused with Jumanji, RECEPTION get into the show, TASIMJAE has Sirena LaBurn won first place 7 to 10 p.m. Saturday the added perk of awards for first in 2010 when Vidor sculptor though it is has a similar ring and does tend to The Art Studio, Inc. through third places. Charlie Stagg was juror. Though 720 Franklin St., Beaumont bring out the unexpected and wild. Second and third place have LeBurn is currently living in Ger- T cash awards, while the first place many, she will have her solo show The Art Studio, Inc. Members Jurored Art Ex- Forster’s ceramic work is winner is awarded a solo exhibi- this spring. hibition does cause quite a buzz. This year, The Art Studio tion in May 2012. The opening reception for all intense. The artist, who won “We get people to show work those walking on the wild side is has Jeff Forster, the ceramics department chair of the Glas- TASIMJAE in 2009, often they haven’t shown before, and from 7 to 10 p.m. Saturday. This sell School of Art, as juror. (You know, the art school across we are also interested in get- tends to be one of the most excit- uses packing material, like ting new memberships from the ing openings at The Art Studio all from the Museum of Fine Art Houston.) Styrofoam, as molds. constituents out there,”said Greg year, so don’t miss it!

C24 theCAT5.com THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011 culturewatchwatch movierentalsrentals TheLipstickLipstickMystic Netflix’sNetflix's toptop 1010 rentalsrentals inin BeaumontBeaumont thisthis weekweek StompStomp TheThe Yard:Yard: HomecomingHomecoming (2010) Forecast Bebe’sBebe's KidsKids(1992) TheThe SandlotSandlot 22(2005) TheThe WoodWood(1999) TheThe ChaperoneChaperone(2011) TylerTyler Perry’sPerry's II CanCan DoDo BadBad AllAll ByBy MyselfMyself(2009) 33 Ninjas:Ninjas: KickKick BackBack(1994) for LOVE KnuckleheadKnucklehead(2010) AllAll AboutAbout TheThe BenjaminsBenjamins(2002) DanceDance FlickFlick(2009) Aries:Aries: MarchMarch 2121 —— AprilApril 1919 Libra:Libra: Sept.Sept. 2323 — Oct.Oct. 2323 You don’t care how many times You could be feeling pressured DVDDVD moviemovie releasesreleases you get rejected. You’re determined by people who want you to make Texas Atomic Iron Commission april 5 to keep asking people out until certain choices with your love life. april 5 You’ll be able to watch an iron-pouring demonstration at the Dish- CasinoCasino JackJack —— you’ve lined up a bunch of hot Maybe your parents are pressur- Fox man’s newest exhibit. LittleLittle FockersFockers ——Universal dates. The sun is inspiring you to ing you to marry someone or a Tron:Tron: LegacyLegacy ——Disney broaden your social circle and at- close friend doesn’t think you tend as many parties as possible. should continue dating someone. aprilapril 88 The awesome Taurus:Taurus: AprilApril 2020 —— MayMay 2020 The moon says make up your own TheThe ChroniclesChronicles ofof Narnia:Narnia: TheThe A casual, platonic friend could mind. VoyageVoyage ofof thethe DawnDawn TreaderTreader express interest in becoming Scorpio:Scorpio: Oct.Oct. 2424 — Nov.Nov. 22 — Fox something more. You might not A dreamy Venus is inspiring you know how you feel about this to dream big. You don’t want to powerofiron person just yet. Venus is encourag- just casually date anymore. You’re New movies coming New movies coming ing you not to reject this possibility toto theaterstheaters thisthis weekweek ready for a special soulmate to out of hand. Be open to a little come along. Or if you’re in a rela- By Beth Rankin HOP (PG) : exploration. tionship, you’ll want to take things HOP (PG) :Live-action and [email protected] ArrestedArrested FormForm openingopening Gemini:Gemini: MayMay 2121 —— JuneJune 2121 animation blend in this comedy @BeaumontBeth on Facebook,Twitter & to the next level. When:When:7 p.m. Friday Issues of right and wrong are on Sagittarius: Nov. 22 — Dec. 21 about a man (James Marsden) Foursquare Sagittarius: Nov. 22 — Dec. 21 Where:Where:Dishman Art your mind, thanks to justice seeker who accidentally hits the Easter With the moon opposite your Museum, 1030 East Saturn. You might be wondering if bunny (voiced by Russell Brand) culptures from sign, it’s important not to make Lavaca, Beaumont you can really trust someone. Or any sudden moves. Don’t overreact with his car, then must take over you could be obsessing about past 15 Texas-based to something that isn’t really that the rabbit’s annual duties until he slights and bad things that your for- important. Don’t push yourself to recuperates. artists all work- The exhibition will explore mer flame did to you. Lighten up. INSIDIOUSINSIDIOUS (PG-13):(PG-13):Writer Leigh S themes of mapping, wonder Cancer:Cancer: JuneJune 22-July22-July 2222 start a new relationship when the Wannell and director James Wan, ing with iron? truth is that you’re not ready. and playfulness and will high- Your intuition is a little off base Capricorn:Capricorn: Dec.Dec. 2222 — Jan.Jan. 1919 who first collaborated on the origi- Sounds pretty epic to me. light the demanding process right now, so don’t jump to conclu- You could be going back and nal “Saw,” try their hands at less necessary to create contempo- sions. Maybe your honey isn’t forth about a relationship, wonder- graphic, more atmospheric horror Arrested Form: Recent rary metal sculpture. seeing somebody else behind your with this tale of a married couple Sculpture by the Texas Atomic There will even be an iron back, even if you’re suspicious. ing if it’s worth it. Mars is creating (Patrick Wilson and Rose Byrne) Iron Commission opens Friday pouring demonstration during And perhaps you’re wrong about some misgivings. You probably trying to protect their comatose at the Dishman on the Lamar the opening, which is ... awe- your honey being ready to break up need to spend more time with this son (Ty Simpkins) from evil spirits. campus and it looks absolutely some. with you. The moon says chill out. person before you’re ready to make SOURCESOURCE CODECODE (PG-13):(PG-13):Jake fascinating. Iron is in no way an Also, there will be snacks. Leo:Leo: JulyJuly 2323 —— Aug.Aug. 2222 a final decision. Give it another try. Aquarius:Aquarius: Jan.Jan. 2020 —— Feb.Feb. 1818 Gyllenhaal stars as a man who easy media to work with and Even more awesome. Talkative Mercury is putting you wakes up on a passenger train the pieces in this show range If you can’t make the open- in a confessional mood. You’ll Business matters are on your eight minutes before a terrorist in size from 8 inches to 12 feet ing, the exhibit is up through want to tell someone about that mind as Jupiter helps you focus on bomb goes off, killing everyone high. April 21. one night stand you had or let attaining big goals. Don’t neglect aboard. Through the use of new an- somebody know how you really feel your honey even though you’re ti-terrorist government technology, about him or her. You’ll feel better really busy. Sneak a few moments he must relive those eight minutes if you get a few things off your here and there so you can spend again and again until he can stop chest. some quality time together. the attack. Director Duncan Jones Virgo:Virgo: Aug.Aug. 2323 —— Sept.Sept. 2222 Pisces:Pisces: Feb.Feb. 1919 — MarchMarch 2020 (“Moon”) revisits “Groundhog Day” It’s hard for you to focus on re- An emotional moon could make from a not-so-funny perspective. lationships when you feel like work things more intense between you SUPERSUPER (Unrated):(Unrated):After his wife and money matters are out of con- and your sweetheart. Avoid petty leaves him for a drug dealer, Rainn trol. With Venus still opposite your fights and pointless arguments. Wilson decides to enact revenge by sign, it’s important for you to con- Instead, do things that make you becoming a crime-fighter who calls centrate on taking care of yourself. both laugh and feel good. Hit the himself the Crimson Bolt. Ellen Let romance become a secondary movies, see a concert, or attend a Page plays his sidekick. Courtney Perry/cat5 pursuit, not the main one. comedy show. THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011 theCAT5.comtheCAT5.com C25C25 chic Slipweekly into

Trapeze dress, Ryu, Butch Hoffer’s, spring Beaumont, $118; Beaded belt, Butch Hoffer’s, Beaumont, $40 By Larena Head [email protected]

ometimes we are too busy to stop and indulge in the beauty that surrounds us, so from time to time we need a reminder to slow down and dress up. ThisS look is an ode to seizing the day. This ensemble suits a sunny outing that calls for something casual but a little bit refined. My hunt for something wonderful ended when I spotted this sundress. The lovely mint color sends you to a spring dreamland and the crocheted-style neckline and back are simply irresistible. The dress is a trapeze cut, so belt it to de- fine your waist. The belt’s zigzag pattern and wooden closure create a nice focal point. It’s a shame to cover up the back of the dress, but the vest provides a more coverage and throws a unique, playful vibe into the mix. The cut of the vest is part structured and part flowy, so it keeps you from looking frumpy. Step out in these Sam Edelman sling-back sandals, a casual and versatile addition to your spring and summer wardrobe. The well-crafted ring is vintage and made from turquoise and sterling silver. Turquoise is always in style and it makes for a striking state- ment accessory. This look pairs well with mimosas and Sandals, Sam Edelman, Butch Vintage ring, Vendor crepes on a sunny afternoon. But then again, Hoffer’s, Beaumont, from 11th Street Mar- what doesn’t? $60 ket, Beaumont, $100 Vest, Adore, Butch Follow the latest in Hoffer’s, Beaumont, Southeast Texas fashion at thecat5.com/fashion $129

C26 theCAT5.com THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011 streetpeeps

Jalissa Williams, 22 Where: E’blaja fashion walk at Chasity Bobino, 20 Speak Easy Lounge One thing you do for fun: Sup- Where: E’blaja fashion walk at port E’blaja Fashion Coalition Speak Easy Lounge Your style inspiration: The One thing you do for fun: details in vintage clothing Compete in the Miss Texas What are you wearing: pageant Vintage dress, gift cameo Your style: Classy casual necklace What are you wearing: Cloth- One more thing: “The coali- ing from various thrift stores tion teaches (the models) how One more thing: “The coali- to be smart and savvy and tion allows me to feed my look the part as well.” passion for fashion and get my name out there.”

Enrika Johnson, 20 Where: E’blaja fashion walk at LaPorche Black, 21 Speak Easy Lounge One thing you do for fun: Sup- Where: E’blaja fashion walk at by Grace Mathis port E’blaja Fashion Coalition Speak Easy Lounge [email protected] Your style: One thing you do for fun: Depends on my Play emotions and mood dress-up with my daughter Chassity Fowler, 18 What are you wearing: Vin- Your style: Spunky and wild Where: E’blaja fashion walk at Speak Easy Lounge in Port Arthur tage stretch pants and chee- What are you wearing: Vin- tah print blazer, black bra One thing you do for fun: Walk with E’blaja tage dress and clutch, Steve One more thing: Style influences: “I’m on the Madden shoes Eccentric and flirty Lamar University dance team One more thing: “It’s okay to What are you wearing: Resale unitard with stirrups, resale bodysuit, Justin’s in Houston shoes and we’re having a cabaret- be different and venture out Oh, and one more thing: “I’m studying psychology in school.” style show in the Montagne with your style.” Center on April 29.”

THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011 theCAT5.com C27 Will anyone pay for single serve blog of the week Some photos are great. Some are funny. These are both. redone Radiohead?

By Alex Pham Los Angeles Times Ah, the good old days, when sonic philistines debated the mer- its of vinyl versus compact discs. Radiohead might well spark a debate over FLAC versus AAC that could bring a misty eye to audio historians. Radiohead’s new re- lease Tuesday wasn’t about alpha- bet soup. Rather, the band is offer- ing fans, via a London company called 7Digital, their first chance to download its latest album, “The King of Limbs,”in higher-quality digital formats. FLAC stands for free lossless audio codec and, at 24 bits, is said Photos courtesy of TheBigCaption.com to feature the same audio fidelity Sure, these pictures speak a thousand words — but it’s the few in which bands record their songs. extra thrown-in ones that give them that je ne sais quoi. In the mastering process, when recordings are made ready for By Beth Rankin typography to make jokes and copying on to CDs, the accuracy [email protected] social commentary. is taken down a notch, to 16 bits, a @BeaumontBeth on Facebook, From the Gulf oil spill to J. Scott Applewhite/The Associated Press Twitter & Foursquare process that has annoyed record- From left, Radiohead band members Ed O’Brien, guitar; Jonny Green- the World Cup to Middle East ing engineers and bands because wood, lead guitar; Colin Greenwood, bass guitar; Thom Yorke, lead vo- conflict, no topic is safe from some of the nuances of their calist; and drummer Phil Selwayan pose in their hotel room in 2008. aybe it’s the photo- the Big Caption’s scathingly witty music can sometimes be lost. journalism nerd in commentary, laid over beautiful But the losses are minimal What’s changed in the last few Mme, but the Boston photos in incredibly well-thought- when compared to what hap- years is the increasing number Globe’s Big Picture out typography. pens to music files when they are of households that have installed blog has captivated me for This blog has something compressed into downloadable years. home theater systems around for everyone, whether you love formats such as MP3 and AAC. Huge, striking photos of photography, design, typography These formats were spawned their flat-screen TVs to get sur- current events (none of these in the 1990s to allow listeners round sound. And when they’re piddly JPGs with watermarks all or just taking a moment to real- to squeeze more songs onto not watching movies, many pipe over them), all accessible each ize that if we can’t fix some of devices such as the iPod, which through music. day via my Google Reader. the epic disasters plaguing our debuted in 2001 with a whopping “Millions of people who use So imagine how excited I was world, at least we can take a 5 gigabytes of memory. That was their PlayStation 3s to watch when the folks at the Big Picture moment to laugh at the inanity enough to hold “1,000 songs in Blu-ray movies are typically hear- launched the Big Caption, a of it all. your pocket,”according to Apple ing 24-bit sound,”Drury said. complement to the Big Picture Check it out at thebigcaption. honcho Steve Jobs, but only if they “Personally, I find it annoying that takes photos and uses com. were aggressively compressed. that I can get better quality audio tbd Records/The Associated Press watching a movie than when I That sales pitch, along with the Radiohead’s ‘The King of Limbs’ introduction earlier in 2001 of the listen to music.” was re-released Tuesday in a Will that be enough to move the iTunes music store, led to a mass higher-quality format. migration from high-fidelity audio needle on sales of high-quality so- and toward the convenience of called lossless audio? Certainly, Ben Drury, chief executive and lo-fi digital songs. music companies are keen to find A decade later, Radiohead is co-founder of 7Digital, believes out. A “yes” will mean they can swimming in the other direc- at least a certain segment of the charge a higher price for pre- tion — back toward high-fidelity market will. mium quality songs or get people releases. Working with digital mu- “I’m definitely not saying this to repurchase albums at higher sic company 7Digital, the British is the mass-market format of the quality. band plans to sell a high-quality future,”Drury said. “Certainly, The early signs are encourag- download of its album for $11.99 people who spend significant ing. Drury said test releases done (the version also comes bundled sums on hi-fi equipment have by 7Digital have indicated that as with a CD-quality copy and an been vocal about the poor quality many as 40 percent of consumers AAC compressed copy). of MP3s. But that’s been quite opt to pay a few extra dollars for Will listeners go for quality? niche.” the higher, CD-quality version.

C28 theCAT5.com THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011 tagged

Rockin’ out at The Gig photos by Beth Rankin

ast Thursday at The Gig on Crockett Street, a solid lineup of indie bands — both local and visiting — Lbrought something a little different than The Gig’s usual lineup. Local indie rock band Hello Chief gave a command performance as usual and reminded us how lucky we are to get to hear the undulating soundscape they fill the room with. They were followed by Fresh Millions, a high-energy Austin in- die electronic/pop outfit that was recently named best new band by the Austin Chronicle. Local rockers We Were Wolves closed out the show with their seriously infectious brand of Southern rock ’n’ roll. Ev- ery time we see these guys, their sound just gets better and better.

TAGGED for a look at other tagged galleries around town, go to theCat5.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011 theCAT5.com C29 tagged brown chicken brown cow photos by Beth Rankin

est Virginia’s Brown Chicken Brown Cow WString Band took the stage at the Logon Cafe last Friday night and played hours of bluegrass, gypsy and country songs to a packed house. Their energy and enthusiasm — and awesome outfits and facial hair, I might add — was immediately evi- dent, but this four-piece band’s real strength lies in their precision. These guys could play so hard and fast, it’s a wonder their fiddle didn’t catch fire.

TAGGED For a look at other galleries around town, go to theCat5.com

C30 theCAT5.com THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011 THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011 theCAT5.com C31 C32 theCAT5.com THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2011