NIGHT OUT GUIDE

2012 Vanguard 2 2012 Vanguard Night Out Guide 3 BANG YER HEAD!

Plan B Portland’s best punk and 1305 SE 8th Ave. metal venues Nestled within the cubic wilderness of Portland’s lower industrial district, this large, open space hosts some of the best metal shows the city has to offer. More often than not, Portland metal bands cut their teeth at Plan B before going on tour. Bands like Danava and Nicholas Kula Yob went through the motions at Plan B, and now they go on tour Vanguard staff regularly. Although its output has recently slowed down a smidge, Straight-up punk and metal ven- anything else. When Satyricon the shows performed are as potent as ever. ues are slowly being phased out and Food Hole closed up, it left a Next notable show: Wednesday, March 28: Lps, Vises, Marmits. in the City of Roses. The town crater in the city’s punk and metal Lps is okay, Marmits is extremely okay but Vises are so full of en- known nationwide for its hipster scenes. But fear not: Tiny places ergy they’ll tear your face off and kick it around on the ground. tint and indie rock has more clubs around our city still dish up all The band plays blistering garage rock that will leave you tingling that cater to those types than the thrashy stuff you can handle. in all the right places.

Backspace 115 NW 5th Ave. Yes, we’re well aware that it’s an Internet café, and yes, they host all The Know kinds of music. But Backspace also earns its stripes as a part-time 2026 NE Alberta St. punk and metal venue. They’ve hosted Thou and AIDS Wolf, two Some patrons might say this is the end-all be-all of punk venues in frighteningly good metal and punk bands, respectively, and they’re Portland. While it certainly isn’t the final word, it is something of known to crack off the odd metal and punk show occasionally. One an institution. It’s been on Alberta since before being on Alberta thing is for sure: When Backspace does it, they do it extremely well. was cool, and it’s about as big as a shoebox. And because the venue is all ages, you have no excuse not to go. Thrash-punk legends like Tragedy and the united From Ashes Next notable show: Saturday, March 17: Wizard Rifle, Rise play here regularly, and the shows are famous for getting out Youthbitch. Along with Agalloch, Billion and Billions and Purple of hand, but never dangerously so. All of the bands that feature Rhinestone Eagle, Wizard Rifle is among the very best metal members of those two bands play here, too. And because those bands in our fair city. Tonight, they’re playing their CD release bands feature members of legendary band His Hero is Gone, their show, and they’ve been kind enough to let people of all ages in shows are almost more like paying tribute. (something of a rarity in Portland). Do not miss this one. Unfortunately, the venue is exclusively 21 and older. Next notable show: Friday, March 23: Lebenden Toten, Slabtown Nu-kle-ar Blast Suntan, FrenZy, DJ Skell. Lebenden Toten is one 1033 NW 16th Ave. of Portland’s best thrash bands, and they rarely perform. Be sure to Another well-respected Portland punk and metal venue, Slabtown get there early for this one; it will sell out. boasts an expansive pinball selection in a game room tucked into the back of the bar. Their show history is as decorated as any other East End venue on the list, but they’ve been here longer than most. 203 SE Grand St. Here, you’ll find loud music, heavy pours and no BS—except for Easily fitting the “tiny cramped venue” punk aesthetic, East End’s whatever horsing around you’ll find in the game room. Like Plan basement is the venue section of this punk bar. Featuring its own B, their show output has diminished slightly, but the shows they separate bar and several support pillars, many nutty shows have book are wonderful. transpired in this basement. One memorable show East End hosted Next notable show: Sunday, March 25: Danava, Witch Mountain, was Monotonix a couple years back, in which they tore out the Burning Leather, Shut Your Animal Mouth, The Chemicals, sprinkler system from the roof and lit a drum kit on fire. Cecelia und de Sauerkrauts. Wow! This bill reads almost like a Next notable show: Monday, March 19: Antikythera, Towers, who’s who of Portland metal and punk bands. Danava and Witch DJ Nate C. This installment of the month-long Portland Metal Mountain are Portland mainstays, but the bands you should be Winter Olympics pits two metal bands against each other. Who looking out for is Burning Leather. (Picture Motörhead with a will win the gold? Who might just up and eat the gold? Nate little more punk influence and you’ve got Burning Leather.) They’re Carson, a Portland metal journeyman, will provide the intermis- great live, too. The mention of Danava will likely sell this show out, sion soundtrack. so arrive early and drink to your heart’s content. 4 2012 Vanguard Night Out Guide 5

The Hawthorne food carts offer a It’s late variety of options for a late night and snack. you’re hungry

The five best late-night eateries you may not know about

Alex Mierjeski VANGUARD STAFF

Saria Dy | Vanguard Staff

Pine State Biscuits by-traffic basis, sometimes until 3 a.m.) these The Roxy Under rain and gray 2204 NE Alberta St. carts offer cheese-curd–topped French fries 1121 SW Stark St. In an unassuming brick building on (Potato Champion on Hawthorne), bleu Back on the west side of the river, this skies, Portland is alive Northeast Alberta Street, a staggeringly cheese and walnut crêpes (Perierra Crêperie classic, somewhat odd diner in “the heart satisfying addition to the late-night lexi- on Hawthorne), and Akevitt-cured, smoked- of the Glamour District” is a downtown with food, and people con lies in wait. Known for its out-the- salmon Lefse wraps with dill crème fraîche, institution. Walls covered by quirky ac- door lines in the morning hours, this pickled shallot and watercress (Viking Soul couterments provide fun visual stimuli, and of all gastronomic fine purveyor of southern-style biscuit Food on Belmont). Close to bars and open a menu composed of dishes like the “Big sandwiches is a recent enlistee in the after- nice and late, these food pods are valuable Fat Heart Attack Special,” the “Quentin persuasions are armed hours food selection. Though its closing standbys. Tarantuna Melt” and the “Phil Hartman time may be a bit on the early side—1 or Memorial Omelette” is good for a few with a plethora of 1:30 a.m.—it’s worth it to finish your pint The Original HotCake House laughs. A paragraph gives no justice to the and make the trek from one of the nearby 1002 SE Powell Blvd. 24-hour enigmatic Roxy—only a visit will. options. For those bars in time to order a Reggie (discounted during late-night hours) and bask in the For those inevitable nights that take you Le Happy ensuing fried chicken, bacon, cheese and across the river, there is but one option for 1011 NW 16th Ave. nights out when the gravy sandwiched between buttery, crum- ultra-classic late-night food. A 24-hour bly biscuits. authority, this 55-year-old family-owned Nestled under the Fremont Bridge (the pangs of hunger strike, establishment offers up traditional diner 405 bridge), this quaint, quiet crêpe, salad Hawthorne and Belmont fare in a classic atmosphere. A jukebox with and steak haven is on the muted side of all the classics, from “Now 17” to Shania after-hours establishments. Dark red walls C orinna S cott we here at the Vanguard Food Carts Southeast 12th Avenue and Twain’s “Come on Over,” be-sparkled absorb warm, low light in the small and don’t want you to be Hawthorne Boulevard, vinyl chairs and intimate booths feel just intimate interior, while the building front and 4262 SE Belmont St. right to with a replenishing, greasy plate of glows yellow with stringed bulbs trac- Often praised as one of the greatest food bacon and eggs, or the ever-classic single ing the perimeter. Open until 1:30 a.m.

| ill-equipped to face Vanguard S taff scenes in Rose City, food-cart pods should hotcake. With a friendly staff and a large, on Friday and Saturday nights, the not be overlooked as a late-night food option. loving crowd of regulars (not to mention Chuck Palahniuk-featured, Thermals- them down. These two cart communities are included the vastly enjoyable relic of a marquee recommended Le Happy is a comforting for both quantitative and qualitative reasons. sign), the Hotcake House is, and has been, a respite from the surrounding industrial Open late on the weekends (on a sometimes true classic. district. Oh, and there’s a full bar. 6 2012 Vanguard Night Out Guide 7

Gimme shelter many MAX stops provide printed SO YOU’VE BUS, MAX, STREETCAR schedules and of- fer shelter from MISSED THE OR TAXI? the elements. MAX

How to occupy yourself after last call

Randall Theil Vanguard Staff

You’ve done it now. You stagger out of your favorite watering hole. While others make quick feet to their cars, you check your cell with a growing sense of dread. Yes, it’s after two, and depending on where you put up your feet, you might not be able to get Getting around at home on TriMet for another three or four hours. night Some cities don’t sleep. Portland sorta dozes. Bustling intersections like Broadway and Burnside Sam Lloyd become empty and ghastly. Formerly familiar Vanguard staff streets can take on a decidedly different character Drew Martig | Vanguard Staff when lit by streetlamp and the only moving thing in blocks is a street sweeper. Chinatown is practi- cally Escape from New York after 2 a.m. You don’t If you’re reading this, you’re probably in col- eliminate waking up in the morning with The MAX runs later than buses and leave Chinatown so much as escape. lege. That means that this weekend you’re a $250 citation. the streetcar and spreads out across the Don’t fret, though. There are still some places probably going to drink. Hell, if you’re read- If your non-downtown hangout spot of Portland-metro area. The Blue Line train, where you can spend the owlish hours in relative ing this on a Friday morning, you’re probably choice is in Southeast or Northeast Portland, running from Willow Creek Transit Center comfort and warmth. already three mimosas deep. Tigard, Beaverton or Milwaukie, don’t run all the way to Cleveland Avenue, runs until The Southeast Grind offers a late night Miles Sanguinetti | Vanguard Staff Since driving drunk is a crime that can to the car dealership or the bike store just yet. 1:20 a.m. on Friday nights and 1:50 a.m. on espesso to drive away your drunken lead to anything from death to your parents Some bus lines run out to each and every one Saturday nights. The Red Line train runs regret. getting really, really mad at you, it’s wise of those spots, and all can still take you back until 12:45 a.m. on Friday and Saturday The place to The place to to take note of various public transporta- downtown at a reasonably late hour. Folks nights and goes from the airport all the way lay down your head stretch your legs tion services around campus and Portland in Southeast can catch the Hawthorne-area to Beaverton Transit Center. The Roxy, 1121 SW Stark St. The South Waterfront in general. Most prominent are the MAX 14 bus, which goes downtown and east as far And hey, if you find yourself drunkenly train, the Portland streetcar and TriMet as Foster and 94th. Travelers coming from stumbling up to your stop right as the last bus, You can find yourself in a weird headspace at 3 a.m. Tiredness Portland is a pretty friendly city compared to most, but I still setting in, drunk wearing off, a lingering headache crawling buses. Each does a fairly good job at ferry- the Milwaukie area should hop on the 33 train or streetcar is leaving, you could always wouldn’t want to be stuck out alone most of the time. If you’re around in your skull. For those who want to slump back and sit- ing students around. But keep in mind the bus line, which extends from Northwest 6th call a cab. Portland Taxi Cab Company and itching to get out and walk off that last margarita, though, the out the midnight hours, this diner offers pleasantly dim booths set pros, cons and general rules of late-night Avenue and Flanders Street to Oregon City Broadway Cab both run 24/7, charge $2.50 South Waterfront has gorgeous views of the river at 3 a.m., and it’s in corners, where you can order greasy American-traditional food per mile with an added cost of $1 for each weekend transportation: Transit Center. under the warm polaroid smiles of Bill Clinton and John Lennon. much better lit than most districts. The streetcar and MAX both currently If Northeast is your party spot, select additional passenger, and can be booked 24 The place to grub out offer a free-rail zone, but each zone is ba- the Burnside-based 20 bus. It can take you hours in advance online. This is obviously not The place to hang out The Tik-Tok Diner, 11215 SE Division St. sically limited to the downtown area. home all the way from Gresham Transit as cheap as TriMet, but it’ll get the job done. The Southeast Grind Coffeehouse, and 3330 SE 82nd Ave. Anywhere past Lloyd Center or Southwest Center. Tigard-area students can take the So finish that last mimosa, down a Red 1223 SE Powell Blvd. 10th Avenue, and you’re going to have to Southwest Barbur-based 12 bus, which goes Bull and go out and party, because you’re in You might remember this place as the Fireside Coffee Lodge. It’s Need to get that boost of energy? The Tik-Tok has the best awful pay for the MAX; anywhere past River all the way to Tigard Transit Center, and college for God’s sake. Just make sure you still around, under new management. The Southeast Grind is lit food (try the peanut butter pie) at a decent price. It’s open 24/7, Place or Northwest Glisan Street and you’re the Beaverton Hillsdale Highway-centered know when and how you’re going to get better than The Roxy, but the staff is every bit as pretentious. and the service is excellent. going to have to pay for the streetcar. 54 bus goes all the way out to Beaverton home safely. For a complete list of sched- You’re more likely to find people reading or bathed in the glow of “Whatever, I’m not going to get caught,” Transit Center. The final departure times ules and contact information for the public laptop screens than staring haggardly at the wall, too, which is a is an easy assumption, especially after you’ve for all of these buses vary, but if it’s a Friday transportation systems, check trimet.org/ plus to a certain type of person, I suppose. finished your fourth beer. Just know that or Saturday, you’ll be fine if you get to your index.htm for the buses and MAX trains Their espresso is great. a ticket purchase of $2.50 will completely stop by midnight. and portlandstreetcar.org for the streetcar. 8 2012 Vanguard Night Out Guide 9

In your You can’t buy your Backspace face Café Atlas friends, but you can sure has all the Sound’s draws of Brandford Cox gets up buy your fun. a bar with close and none of the personal. If you like good music and enjoy equally good intoxication. food, then you should probably ditch your lonely date with over-seasoned Top Ramen and iTunes and make a trip to The Hawthorne Theatre instead. The Hawthorne is a club that provides entertainment in the form of live band perfor- mances—from indie, punk and metal to pop, rock, country and reggae—and menu items in the form of dishes, appetizers, snacks and drinks. And for those lucky individuals born in or before 1990, there’s a full bar. It is friendly for all ages (with sections reserved for patrons 21 The and older). Show tickets can be purchased at hawthornetheater.com and generally range Miles Sanguinetti | Vanguard Staff from $5–25. Hawthorne The establishment also accommodates all dif- ferent types of people. For example, if you want Fun for under 21 to go there to make friends, just attend any metal, Theatre punk rock or reggae concert. Hot spots and good Portland boasts its beer cul- interested in mixing beats and Freeman said that it is a bit of a The trick is to situate oneself in the midst of a grub are still ture and nightlife scene as creating techno jams to show walk, but is a good distance to Good music, good group of people you’d potentially like to make out there for must-sees, but for students their skills on the turn tables. go with friends on a weekend. friends with, and when you’ve developed the who haven’t quite hit that 21st Portland State resident assis- Other than Backspace for company, great fun underaged students proper head-bobbing technique, look around and birthday, there’s much more tant Solay Freeman said that music, the Roseland Theatre Melinda Guillén make eye contact with someone. Smile a little to the city than the weekend with all the café has to offer, at Northwest 6th Avenue, VANGUARD STAFF to show that you are friendly. (Don’t smile too Rosemary Hanson pub crawl. Backspace is her top suggestion and Wonder Ballroom on much. That’s creepy.) And presto! Instant cama- Vanguard staff Some of the top picks for her underage residents. NE Russell St. offer certain The raderie. Works every time. include Backspace Café and “It’s convenient; it is a all-ages events. The next big Carnivores If, however, you have too many friends, you the Roseland Theatre for low- quick walk or MAX ride to name coming to the Roseland tear up the stage may also rent The Hawthorne Theatre. Simply key, all-ages entertainment. Northwest 5th and Couch,” is Young the Giant on April at the contact the Booking and Production Manager For food, The Roxy and Freeman said. “Sunday nights 5. Say Anything will be at the Hawthorne Nic Yannariello at hawthornetheatrebooking@ Voodoo Donuts are a safe bet are free open mic, and al- Wonder Ballroom March 25. Theatre. gmail.com for good grub. On campus, though beer is served to those For the nights when stu- So the next time you’re on the verge of hav- Portland State’s 5th Avenue of-age, it is a relaxing café dents simply want to stick ing another one of those ramen-packet-eating, Cinema offers free movies and atmosphere.” around campus, PSU offers downloaded-music-listening lonely nights, take popcorn with a student I.D. While downtown, students a lot of low-key events on my advice: Your time and money will be better Backspace Café is located can also drop by local favorite campus. Food for Thought spent on tasty food and awesomely loud music in near Pioneer Square. It offers Voodoo Donuts, located on offers open-mic night every the presence of other people at The Hawthorne band performances, art shows, Southwest 3rd Street, about Tuesday. Freeman added that Theatre. slam poetry, gaming and a block south of Burnside. the 5th Avenue Cinema is an- food. Their March art gallery Voodoo was highlighted on other good option for students. features the artist Christian the Travel Channel show Man They have Friday and Saturday Collins and his “Cosmic Vs. Food. The shop offers eve- movies at 7 and 9:30 p.m., Collages” display, and upcom- rything from your basic crème- which include free admission ing musical performances for filled donut to the more unusual and popcorn for students. March and April include Tope maple-bacon creation, and even Whether it is a quick, late- and Wizard Rifle. offers vegan options as well. night bite to eat, practicing Backspace also highlights Also near downtown, The song talents at open-mic night The Hawthorne Theatre a unique twist on open-mic Roxy on Southwest Stark or just exploring the Rose 1507 SE 39th Ave. nights called Battery Powered Street. and 11th Avenue. of- City, Portland certainly has 503-233-7100 Music. This particular open- fers up a late night option for more to offer on the weekends www.hawthornetheater.com mic session allows people good, solid American food. than just a pub crawl. 10 2012 Vanguard Night Out Guide 11

Getting the A classic gin and tonic good stuff 1 part gin 2 parts tonic water Procuring a classy choice and mix up something A dash of bitters (optional) cocktail for any ridiculous (be it a Rob Roy or a Garnish with lemon situation Sloe Gin Fizz), but you’ll never get a real taste for liquor doing This recipe calls for a bit more tonic Randall Theil that. And you’ll look like an as- water than usual. The proportions Vanguard staff shole trying to communicate will depend on your ingredients. Mixed drinks are in a sad state. these desires to an overworked An aromatic tonic water brand A cold Bars in Portland offer slates of bartender at 11 p.m. like Fever-Tree will balance your gimmicky cocktails at exhor- Simplicity is sophistication. gin and tonic nicely. Sweeter tonic one for bitant prices, all made with the The gin and tonic. The marti- waters might overpower the liq- every same handful of tired liquors. ni. A neat scotch. These are the uor. Strong, juniper-y gins like budget Young hipsters resign them- orders of the social-climber- Beefeater will make themselves and mood selves to quick fixes to mask cum-alcoholic we all aspire to known regardless. If you decide Drew Martig | Canadian Typographer the taste of their bargain-base- be. The trick, then, is know- to add bitters, use citrus bitters to ment liquor purchases. Have ing which elements to select. compliment the drink’s existing bar owners and drink peddlers An excellent brand of gin that flavor profile. Add the ingredi- Cheap drinks, every given up? many establishments will have ents to a highball glass filled with Many things have con- access to is Aviation—a new ice cubes, stir and drink. Cheryl Rodgers tributed to the decline of the local, American-style gin with night of the week Vanguard staff gentleman’s cocktail. For one a really excellent taste profile. thing, our generation has been New Deal No. 3 is my per- You just finished a huge pro- it’s your birthday and you’re a ale for $3.25 a pint, a well saddled with an unfortunate sonal favorite, but it might be ject and want to go out for a Rogue Nation member, go to Thursday drink for $3.50 or a domestic set of mental associations. The a bit expensive for bar drink- cold adult beverage—but it’s Rogue Hall anytime for a free The Cheerful Tortoise pint for $2.25. dapper man in a lean black suit ing. A decent cheaper option Tuesday. Where do you go? 32-ounce beer. 1939 SW Sixth Ave. with a sleek dry martini has would be Beefeater, a power- Well, there are drink specials $1 beers on tap from 8 p.m. to Saturday aged into your weird uncle ful, London-made, dry, low- for your mood and budget Trébol midnight. Roy, with his plastic faded- er-midshelf gin, but you won’t every night of the week, with 4835 N Albina Ave. The Observatory label bottles of gin. For some, sound very cool ordering it a couple of weekend sugges- Get $10 tequila flights at the Crush 8115 SE Stark St. the smell of gin will always (unless you’re trying to attract tions that will work for the full tequila bar during happy 1400 SE Morrison St. Take the group to The bring to mind impressions of William Wallace). whole group. hour. Tequilas are bartender’s $5 margaritas in flavors like Observatory for happy hour olive-green appliances and re- Some fine equivalent vodka choice and happy hour is from strawberry, mango, cucumber from 3–6 p.m. where you ceding hairlines. brands would be Ketel One Monday 5–6:30p.m. and 9–10 p.m. and champagne. can get $1 domestic cans of Let’s start with a truism: Well or 42 Below. There’s nothing beer, $2 lagers and $3 drafts. drinks just aren’t classy. They wrong with drinking any of these Ash Street Saloon Wednesday Friday They also have $5 specialty are the bottom of the barrel. I straight, but smooth vodka is im- 225 SW Ash St. cocktails. ordered a gin and tonic at The portant for cocktails, too. A dash $1 domestic beers from 4–8 p.m. The B-Side Tavern Marathon Taverna Boiler Room (a fine business of bitters can make even an unin- 632 E Burnside St. 1735 W Burnside St. Sunday with as much repute as a bar can spired cocktail interesting again, The Matador Bar $1 Hamm’s from 4–7 p.m. to Natural Light beer is $1 from have in Chinatown) that you but be careful in going too far: 1967 W Burnside St. get you over the hump. noon to 2p.m. The Blue Monk could use to delouse your dog. Most bars only stock angostura Bottomless mimosas from noon 3341 SE Belmont St. You’re going to have to move bitters, which can finely com- to 7 p.m. for $9. Yep, seven Hungry Tiger Too McMenamins Kennedy School The Monk has something for up a buck or two in the peck- pliment a martini but unbalance hours of bottomless 207 SE 12th Ave. 5736 NE 33rd Ave. everybody during Sunday hap- ing order to reach for liquors most gin and tonics. mimosas. $1 PBR’s and $1.25 too-deli- The atmosphere is great, but py hour. Grab $1.50 Pabst Blue that don’t taste like cleaning The key, of course, is experi- cious-to-know-they’re-vegan catch the happy hour while Ribbons and $5 cocktails from solution. mentation. Discerning palettes Vanguard S taff corndogs, served all day. you’re there. Enjoy a drink 5 p.m. to about midnight.

| Tuesday A good rule of thumb for or- are developed by continuing in the Detention Bar or, if it’s dering a cocktail at a bar is to strip to try new things. The next Rogue Hall your thing, a cigar and bour- whatever you think you want to time you go to order (or mix) 1717 SW Park Ave. bon in the Boiler Room Bar. drink down to the basest of ele- a drink, don’t be satisfied with Karl Kuchs On Tuesdays, your second Happy hour is 3–6 p.m. and ments. Of course, it can be good tipping back another awful well beer is on the house—if you 10 p.m. to midnight, when fun to dig out your bar book of vodka cran. wear a Hawaiian shirt. Also, if you can get a McMenamins 12 2012 Vanguard Night Out Guide 13 ‘Nice beer for nice people’

Tugboat keeps enthusiasts chugging along

Holly Laycock VANGUARD STAFF

Saria Dy | Vanguard Staff Karl Kuchs | Vanguard Staff A place for every weekday Tugboat Brewing Co. is worth a stop any night of the week. Regardless of the weather outside, the beer- Burnside Street and Broadway leads into a decep- Nights out in Portland for free Their Chernobyl drinking conditions at Tugboat Brewing Co. are tively large, cozy space. Old books line the walls always perfect. It’s the oldest microbrewery in and twinkle lights and houseplants adorn every Stout, at 13 downtown Portland and a family-owned enter- window. Large booths and tables accommodate prise that evolved first from a watch-repair shop the multitude of board games available if you’re percent alcohol to a coffeehouse, and then, finally, to your new up for some friendly competition—I recommend Monday bridge! Fill a thermos with piping hot cocoa favorite bar. Whatever prompted the switch to Clue—or if you’d rather slouch back and enjoy Eva-Jeanette Rawlins Start the week off right with Monday Movie (or whatever strikes your fancy), grab a friend and only offered brewing English-style strong ales, it’s working. some live jazz, numerous local artists debut origi- Vanguard Staff Madness at 8:30 p.m. at the fabulous Pix and a camera and take pictures of yourselves at Let’s be honest: You go to Tugboat for the beer. nal material six nights a week. Patisserie, where you can watch Monty Python and each of Portland’s eight fantastic bridges with the in a half pint, is Their Chernobyl Stout, at 13 percent alcohol and Most nights it’s more of a quiet bar, but the the Holy Grail, Top Gun and other such classics. If breathtaking array of city lights as your backdrop. only offered in a half pint, is syrupy, smooth and de- regular patrons come out of the woodwork on you answer the weekly trivia question correctly, Then, if you’re freezing, go out and shake your tail syrupy, smooth licious. But make sure you get in soon if this excites Mondays. A grumpy looking bulldog can typi- you get a free macaroon! feathers at a free concert (www.concertcoop.com ). your taste buds because Tugboat only brews in small cally be found roving from table to table on these and delicious. batches (usually three at a time), and the selection nights, while people wander in to hearty cheers Tuesday Thursday changes depending on how fast people imbibe. led by the bartender. The tradition of cheering On Tuesday night, head over to Powell’s Books— Get an injection of fine culture the first Thursday In other words, the turnaround isn’t that long. upon entry and booing upon departure makes the mothership—and wander through the maze of every month as art galleries downtown and The liquor-drinker’s one criticism of Tugboat for a real live drinking game, and this, in com- of shelves, taking in the delicious fragrance of old in the Pearl District stay open late and invite the would be that they only serve beer and wine. bination with a Discovery Channel display of and new books. Bring a bag of your old textbooks public in for free. There are usually some yummy But their tap and bottled selection is extensive Northwest nature scenes, is strangely consoling. with you to sell at their Buy Back counter, then drinks and eats too. Or you could head over to the enough for the microbrew crowd (PBR drinkers The boating paraphernalia hanging haphaz- take that cash and grab a coffee to go. Head up Museum of Contemporary Craft, which also has may want to try Mary’s around the corner). ardly around the piano in the corner, as well as all to Pittock Mansion with someone you love, sit free admission every first Thursday. Happy hour ends at 7 p.m., but prices aren’t the other nautical touches and ingrained oddities, on the benches and take in the beauty of our city outrageous for the punch the drinks pack. Food make Tugboat a supremely pleasant place for an between sips of warm brew. Friday options are limited and disappointingly average outing. And a beer. And, finally, what better way to end your week for the $6–7 price range, although a huge plate Wednesday than by watching the latest episode of Portlandia of nachos will cost you only $3.50. All in all, the TUGBOAT BREWING CO. In case you didn’t know, Wednesday is “bridge at the Mission McMenamins? Check their standard, hefty bar menu falters, but the funny 711 SW Ankeny St. night,” and it’s not your grandmother’s kind of website for showtimes. quirks of the place redeem that trivial detail. 503-226-2508 Tugboat’s side street entrance off of Southwest WWW.D2M.COM/TUGWEBSITE 14 2012 Vanguard Night Out Guide 15 Evening at An evening the improv in motion

A night out can get your blood pumping Add some comedy to your life at the Brody Theater Eva-Jeanette Rawlins Vanguard Staff

Aimee Zink Portland should have much I went to the Brody because guest groups, standup comedy— Vanguard staff more to offer those of us you are I took the improvisational they have it all! The talented im- under 21. That’s why I was theater class at PSU. One of our prov group Blank Slate frequently thrilled to be introduced to assignments was to attend some performs there. And on March the Brody Theater. Looking live improv shows. The thought 16 and 17, special guest Bob Yoga to check out a fun show with had never crossed my mind Odenkirk, creator of Mr. Show 5405 SE Woodward St. friends or a date? Feeling blue before, but after my first experi- and co-star of Breaking Bad, will 971-570-1384 and in need of a good laugh? The ence, I was blown away. be paying the venue a visit. Brody is your place. The first show I saw was its If you want to test out your Unwind after a long day at school with a free yoga class offered The Brody has some stand- “Micetro” show, a friendly comedy skills, the Brody has at Franklin High School. Experience the local, unpretentious, up comedy but mostly focuses competition where actors per- open mic nights. Or if you community feel this class offers, with a friendly instructor and an on improvisation. Anyone form and receive points based watch improv and like what you inclusive environment that caters to all experience levels. You | who’s seen the show Whose Line on the audience’s applause. They see, it also offers a wide variety won’t feel embarrassed if you don’t know how to do the Cobra. It’s Over the top Rock climbing Corinna Scott Vanguard Staff Is It Anyway? is already famil- put on this show every Friday. of improv classes so you can a great way to let your hair down and meet some new friends at the in the wee hours at The iar with this format of theater. The first show blew me learn to do it yourself. And of same time. “Siddhasana” and “bhujangasana” your way to a serene, Circuit Gym. There is no script. The actors away, but the second swept me course, there are improv classes transcendent evening. make up everything spontane- right off this planet. It was the at PSU, too. ’80s Video Dance Attack ously—with hilarious results. Brody’s Halloween show titled “I think learning improv Rock climbing McMenamins Crystal Ballroom But the magic of improv goes “Scary Movie.” The group of is empowering,” Parker said. 6050 SW Macadam Ave 1332 W Burnside St. beyond comedy. performers acted out “scary “Students who weren’t really 503-246-5111 503-225-0047 “Improv is about storytelling,” movies,” each probably half performers will tell me that 410 NE 17th Ave. When you need a little ’80s music infusion, Friday nights at the 503-719-7041 said theater arts professor Scott an hour or so, based only on learning how to let the stories McMenamins Crystal Ballroom is where it’s at. The funky Portland Parker, who teaches improv prompts from the audience. come out of themselves with Scale the wall at one of the world’s largest rock-climbing gyms, landmark, where it’s promised that “On any night, anything can classes at Portland State. “People This is called “long form” other people is very empower- The Circuit Gym, found right here in Portland. With a choice of happen,” is the place to be if you want to get your Running Man believe that improv is about improv, and it is this style that ing, and it changes their lives.” two locations, it is a fun, social and invigorating way to spend an on. On Friday nights, you’re invited to an ’80s Video Dance Attack. making jokes. Improv tends to makes the Brody unique. The I know it changed my life. evening. Grab a friend or two and get ready to flex your muscles With hundreds of classics playing, from Wham! to Pat Benatar, be humorous and fun, but that’s kinds of games on Whose Line Both watching and performing as you scale your way to the top. But don’t worry—you don’t have you’ll wish you’d worn your neon scrunchies and parachute pants. mostly because of the delight of are called “short form” games. improv have been relaxing out- to be a pro; if you’re a little shaky, they have Beginners Night on And all the while, you can dance along with the music videos pro- creating things in the moment.” These games have a set format lets. College is stressful. Everyone Saturdays after 5 p.m. At only $10 with a student ID, it’s the perfect jected on a huge screen. It’ll be too legit to quit! The Brody is a short Green and last only a few minutes. needs a few laughs. Go to the way to spend a night and get your heart rate up. or Yellow Line MAX ride Long form goes beyond that. It Brody and you will be enter- Jai Ho! Bollywood Bliss Dance Party away from campus, nestled be- is a true test of the actor’s crea- tained and fascinated. Just do it. Andrea’s Cha Cha Club McMenamins Crystal Ballroom tween Sushi Ichiban and Helen’s tive and teamwork skills and is Prices for the Brody shows 832 SE Grand Ave. 1332 W Burnside St. Market. The inside is small and delightful to witness. range from $5–12 and almost 503-230-1166 503-225-0047 usually dark but has a relaxing, “In long form, you’re creating always have a student discount. If you’re itching to put on your dancing shoes and don’t know Don’t deny it; your favorite part of Slumdog Millionaire was when intimate atmosphere. The first little one-act plays,” Parker said. Visit www.brodytheater.com where to go, look no further than Andrea’s Cha Cha Club. A hot- they rolled the credits and the epic dance sequence had you wish- row of the audience is so close “It takes patience and practice to for more information about spot for salsa dancing, this small, intimate club definitely gets hop- ing you lived in a Bollywood world. Well, you can—for a night. to the stage you can reach out be able to create longer stories shows and classes. ping, so don’t be fooled by the quiet upstairs atmosphere. Once you The McMenamins Crystal Ballroom turns into little India every and touch the performers. In the and characters that can come in go downstairs, you’ll find that your hips begin to move automati- second Saturday and features incredibly catchy music that will keep back, there is a bar with both al- and out of a story.” The Brody Theater cally to the pulsating music. On Thursdays, they have a live band, you dancing for hours. Going with a group of friends is the best coholic and non-alcoholic bev- The Brody has shows every (16 NW Broadway) so head over after 10 p.m., have a couple drinks and then let loose. way to do it, and while DJ Prashant fuses old and new-school dance erages, as well as food such as single weekend. Short-form 503-224-2227 And if you don’t have a partner, there are plenty of eager dancers tunes, he’ll also give you a some pointers in a workshop before- sandwiches, wraps and paninis. games, long-form performances, Brodytheater.Com ready to pull you onto the dance floor. hand. You won’t regret this visit to Portland’s own Bollywood. 16 2012 Vanguard Night Out Guide 17

Dick rap remix. If there was to be any chance of (Later, someone attempts LFO’s Toma-Wolf, Day 1 karaoke Monday night my singing karaoke this week, hot toddies “Summer Girls,” which typifies the Verse DJ, gets Chopsticks II Express would have to be part of the equation. Conundrum: We all know that he sings the crowd (2651 E Burnside St.) The karaoke portion of Chopsticks II is about Abercrombie & Fitch in the chorus, pumped. technically called “The Stargate Lounge,” but capturing the subtleties of lines like, When I first moved to Portland in fall 2007, though it’s neither particularly futuristic “Billy Shakespeare wrote a whole bunch of I often heard Chopsticks II mentioned as nor affiliated with the syndicated Richard sonnets” may prove more difficult.) the premier karaoke spot in town. An easy- Dean Anderson television program. On Like every karaoke night, there are several to-find, well-publicized karaoke spot has its this Monday night, it’s populated by a rath- unflinchingly earnest singers, belting out their pluses (terrific people-watching and dance- er boisterous birthday party, many men in tried-and-true numbers. Tonight, a short, partying) and minuses (you will probably flannel and glasses, and of course, me and long-haired woman sings “Ziggy Stardust” never sing a song). I figured that a Monday three friends at a back corner table. with her eyes closed, and another woman night would offer a more subdued, less jam- After a couple uneventful songs, the birth- in a floral dress belts out The Beatles’ “Oh packed night at Chopsticks II. day-night revelers approach the mic, and the Darling” for what must be the 100th time. As I approached the door on the north flannel-clad, bespectacled ringleader of their But the vibe at Chopsticks II is one of ironic side of Burnside, I could hear a plaintive, troupe implores our table to come join them detachment. The song choices tend toward falsetto screech through the walls—some- for a rendition of Fiona Apple’s “Criminal.” the cheesy (Eagles’ “Hotel California,” Air thing braying and exceedingly unpleasant. We demur, and as the music starts, he forgets Supply’s “All Out of Love,” Brian McKnight’s It was, as it turned out, a tattooed man, about it. What follows is best described as “Back at One”), the videos playing in the down on one knee, attempting to reach the “tone deaf Rob Zombie sings Fiona Apple,” background look like Cialis ads and most high-pitched heights of The Darkness’ “I and that feels a touch generous. This group of the songs are performed with tongues set Believe in a Thing Called Love.” runs into a frequent karaoke dilemma, one firmly in cheeks. I approached the bar and ordered a hot I’ll call the “Verse Conundrum:” You may A couple pretty vigorous dance parties toddy, which should give you an indication think you know a song perfectly, but when break out, one during “Like a Prayer” and of my general health and well-being: I was forced to carry a tune all by your lonesome, another during “My Humps,” and our four- struggling with something that sounded it’s always the verses that trip you up. Be it person contingent sings along to most of like whooping cough and made every word melody or cadence, you need to know a song the night’s songs. We totally crush “Say My

All photos Drew Martig | Vanguard Staff I uttered sound like a chopped-and-screwed to really kill it. Name,” and it seems fitting when my room- mate leaves, bringing our group from four Erika Tucker to three—just like the real Destiny’s Child! shares her The night ends, as most here do, with talents with our last song, En Vogue’s “Don’t Let Go,” Karaoke me crazy the room. not having been called. This, for me, is the lasting legacy of Chopsticks II: Even on Monday nights, you may never get near a One dumbass tries I have always appreciated a good night of karaoke: microphone. and fails to do karaoke for 4 Grab a few friends, throw back a few drinks and straight nights Day 2 Tuesday night make some questionable musical and life decisions. Baby Ketten Karaoke @ Louie Optaz VANGUARD STAFF Mississippi Pizza So when I was given journalistic carte blanche to (3552 N Mississippi Ave.)

write about karaoke, it seemed like a cinch: Scope Baby Ketten Karaoke is the antithesis of the irony-rich karaoke offerings of places like out some spots, grab some friends and hit up four Chopsticks II or the Alibi (both of which certainly have their value). “The music karaoke spots in four days. Portland has a plethora selection is very different,” said Lauren, a classmate of mine who I ran into at of karaoke options, and I tried to patronize a variety Mississippi Pizza. “There are a lot of songs that aren’t available at more mainstream of venues, each highlighting a different aspect of karaoke.” What this means, fellow karaoke-goers, Portland’s karaoke nightlife. is that on a given night you will find pretty damn good singers pouring their hearts out Here is my attempt at four nights of karaoke…and to Roy Orbison’s “Crying” or Childish Gambino’s “Bonfire” or The Cramps’ the ecstasy and agony that followed. “Garbage Man.” Because the folks at Baby 18 2012 Vanguard Night Out Guide 19

Ketten create their own karaoke tracks, often is singing “You’re the One That I Want” from I can’t hit the high notes—ya know, due wrote it in my notebook. one of them. I suspect that you or someone based on customer request, the lists are consist- Grease with a baritone in a Phantom of the Opera Somebody to the fact that I can’t swallow or talk or At this point, my notes have slowly tran- you know is the same way. For those of us ently updated and filled with tracks that people T-shirt. wrote “I’m really breathe—and when I sing it an oc- sitioned from my sloppy, drunken hand- who cannot soberly confront the debilitat- actually want to sing. Their shows also feature Like Baby Ketten in general, it’s the quality tave lower it just sounds like I’m speaking writing to other peoples’ sloppy, drunken ing combination of a microphone, video great sound (I heard more preparation for the that sets this apart. Yes, Grease gets sung every- failing with awkwardly. I settle for scratching my voice handwriting. Somebody wrote “I’m fail- screen and stage, three nights of karaoke Baby Ketten sound check than I have for some where, but these two can sing, and even on an in my upper-register and speak-singing the ing with the waitress,” someone else wrote is just about all a body—not to mention a live shows), a big projection screen and a pretty eight-inch stage, the lights and sound quality the waitress,” words while dancing my ass off. “I can’t sing either. Reach out and touch wallet—can handle. kick-ass lighting system. make it actually feel like a show. As I look out to the tiny but ardent dance me,” and someone—probably me—spilled Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays Shelbi, a Portland native and karaoke fiend, I’m getting ready to leave and mention to someone else party breaking out, I convince myself that ketchup all over it. None of this makes any are generally set aside for laundry or The jumps on stage early on to sing Smith’s version of Shelbi that I’m planning to go to karaoke for the it’s not the booze or the strobe light, but sense to me. There is also a quote from me, Bachelor or crossword puzzles or homework. “Baby It’s You” and, pardon my French, fucking next two nights. Wednesday night, I’m going to wrote “I can’t me. I am awesome. I make sure not to ask written in someone else’s hand, that reads, You can’t expect too much out of them. So murders it. It turns out that this particular song Suki’s in Southwest Portland. Shelbi decides to sing either. anyone else how I did and am glad there’s “This was the least productive of my nights even if nothing earth-shattering happened, is one reason Shelbi loves Baby Ketten: She had come with, and it seems like I’ve found a karaoke no video evidence of my performance. out so far,” which is undeniably true. I did make a few new friends and cajoled a been searching for “Baby It’s You” and Sharon Sherpa. She also points me toward Karaoke From Reach out There is a law of diminishing returns on few old ones to spend three usually-mundane Jones’ “100 Days, 100 Nights” at karaoke spots Hell, a live-band karaoke that plays at Dante’s Day Three a karaoke binge, and Suki’s is certainly my weeknights getting rowdy with me. around town before finding them at Baby Ketten. on Mondays and Tiger Bar on Thursdays. So the and touch Wednesday Night nadir. The next morning, I remember that What did I learn? Not much, I suspect. “Their song selection is rad as shit,” Shelbi itinerary is set: Suki’s on Wednesday and Tiger Suki’s (2401 SW 4th Ave.) I’m supposed to attend Karaoke From Hell But I got to sing Robyn in public, dammit, says later as we wait in line for drinks at the bar Bar on Thursday. Two down and two to go. me,” and that evening, and I am immediately nause- and that feels like a small victory for fun in in back. (Even in the back corner of the bar, far As I’m preparing to leave, I bemoan the fact It’s my third straight night of karaoke, and ated. You see, dear reader, there are people the battle against banality. removed from the stage, Baby Ketten keeps you that, once again, I’ve submitted a song that someone— I’ve convinced a couple friends to join who can sing karaoke sober, and I am not connected through a video camera that feeds live doesn’t get selected. But just I am opening the probably me— Shelbi and I for a full night of karaoke shots of the stage to a TV screen. It only adds to door to head outside, I hear my name called. I revelry. We decide to get good and drunk Michael the professional feel of the show.) jump back inside, throw down my backpack and beforehand because we’re cheap and this is Rytting, spilled ketchup bartender, While we talk, Shelbi is listening to a song sur- head up to the stage. The first notes of Robyn’s karaoke after all. I, however, underestimate tips his reptitiously on her iPhone; she is preparing for “Dancing On My Own” blare from the speakers, all over it. the effect of a three-day karaoke binge on head back her next song and won’t tell me what the song and I’m actually getting excited. I love this song, my already ragged immune system. By the to sing. is, though I can see a Ferris wheel on her screen. and I know it so well. This is what karaoke should time we reach Suki’s, I am drunk and I am She, like many of the other “kettens” (which is be about: Not some jackass fumbling through bits coughing every 20–30 seconds. It’s not a what the regulars are called), takes this pretty of a song they vaguely recall but someone belting good look for me. seriously. A few minutes later, I have to laugh out notes they love and sounding good doing it. The combination of my state-of-mind when the Ferris wheel is finally explained. She Unfortunately, I don’t sound good doing it. and Suki’s remodeled interior is a bit off- putting. I’ve spent some time in this lit- Brad tle bar under the Travelodge, and they’ve Stephens taken pains to spruce it up: repainted croons out a tune for walls, revamped menu, etc. But the ka- listeners raoke remains the same, which is good, at Suki’s. because it’s one of the more enjoyable karaoke nights in Portland: Dick, the KJ, tosses jokes around and sings a show tune every fourth or fifth song, depend- ing on how busy the evening is. (Tonight, he sings “Wonderful Guy” from South Pacific. Sample lyric: “I’m as trite and as gay as a daisy in May.”) As a singer, you always know where you stand with Dick: if he calls your song “fabulous” just once, you did poor-to-okay; twice means you did pretty well; and “absolutely fabulous” means you crushed it. Shelbi garners an “absolutely fabulous” for a killer version of “Son of a Preacher Man” that prompts my friend Dusty to ask, “Why isn’t she in a band?” I manage to sing “Love Shack” with Shelbi, but I hate the song and spend most of the four minutes swaying back and forth. Cayle sings Alan Jackson, which I only know because he 20 2012 Vanguard Night Out Guide 21 Aura 21+ A night at Dirty 21+ 1022 W Burnside St. FX Nightclub Clean it 35 NW Third Ave. is sure Aura works hard to keep up its classy reputation. to provide up at the Have you ever wanted to grind your body up Two stories and scattered bars throughout the entertainment. against a crusty metal pole? Have you ever building make waiting in line for drinks much best—and wanted to do so in front of throngs of people? less of a hassle. Top 40 music is the sound du Then this is your kind of scene. For the rest of jour, but Aura also sneaks in alternative music. worst—clubs us, Dirty certainly works hard to live up to its Sadly, the kind of crowd drawn to Aura resem- name. The music is primarily Top 40 hip-hop, bles grown up versions of your high school’s Kali Simmons but the weekly trance and electronica sessions popular crowd still trying to squeeze into VANGUARD STAFF with internationally known DJs give the club their prom clothes. Drinks run on the heart- some redemption. Sadly, Dirty has yet to realize attack-inducingly expensive side, and, even While it seems that most that this kind of club ceased being popular in the with all the space, Aura still manages to get Portlanders would rather bike ’90s when everyone ran out of money for coke. suffocatingly packed. down to the nearest house show to listen to the latest Instead, try… Instead, try… indie electronic Latin scream pianist, many desire a night The Crown Room 21+ Groove Suite 21+ out on the town now and 205 NW Fourth Ave. 440 NW Glisan St. again. Portland, known for its independent music scene, also What’s that faint wobbly, wubbly sound you hear Tucked away in the deepest corners of downtown, boasts a surprisingly healthy in the distance? That’s the sweet sound of dub- Groove Suite is not your regular club. Often open club scene. But, like all good step. The Crown Room, host of the weekly See far into the night, it’s the place to be if you don’t things, it’s got a dark side. You Next Tuesday event, brings in local and na- want your night to end. Open only four days a Luckily, the Vanguard put on its tional talent to gently assault your ears with their week, it always plays great music and has the right sparkly minidress and 14-inch amazing beats. Weekly music nights also bring kind of feel for even the most anxious club-goer. heels and did the dirty work in local trance, house and electro artists that mix There is no cover before 10 p.m., so getting there for you, with only minimal it up for a guaranteed good time. Drinks are on early can work to your advantage. The bar is… time spent crying drunkenly the spendy side but, except for weekends, The well…unusual to say the least. Those looking to in the streets. We trounced Crown Room has no cover. Watch out for oc- slurp down an appletini-margarita will be sorely through the best—and worst— casional open bar events and excellent music disappointed by Groove Suite’s meager selection, of Portland’s clubs. Here events. but those looking for a great time will fall in love are some places to avoid and with the relaxing atmosphere. their much nicer, cleaner and cheaper alternatives.

Barracuda 18+ 9 NW Second Ave. Trying to select an under-21 club is like trying to pick who you will vote for in the next presidential elec- tion—you usually end up picking the lesser of two evils. Barracuda is the terrifying evil twin of the 18-and- over nightclub scene. Women who go alone may often feel like they’re being put on display in a market, so

Karl Kuchs | Vanguard Staff bring a few friends if you’re looking to stop by. There’s a bar and VIP tables upstairs, but much is left to be desired when it comes to the beer and spirits selection. The dance floor is spacious, providing room for danc- ers to breathe, but Barracuda, like many of it’s patrons, just can’t overcome its creepy vibe.

Dirty and Instead, try…

FX Nightclub 18+ 823 SW Naito Pkwy.

not-so -dirty Glowing neon go-go dancers covered in bubbles and paint? Yes please! FX works hard to make itself seem different and is great for those looking to take their underage dates out on the town. FX also features an upstairs bar for of-age visitors. It still retains a somewhat creepy vibe, but such is the world of underage dance clubs. Musicians from all over the world have been known to pop up at FX to play dancing their sets, so keep your eyes peeled for upcoming international headliners. 22 2012 Vanguard Night Out Guide 23 Calling all music lovers

All photos Adam Wickham | Vanguard Staff

Emily Gravlin The Bing Lounge That was the idea behind partnering with You can even browse through videos of past mainly responsible for promoting the shows and More than just a cool Vanguard Staff and KPSU team KPSU. “We were interested in doing events that performances—70 pages of them! Portland bringing the beer. venue, Bing backs up its up to offer free SXSW is coming up in March. Almost right would appeal to students,” said Becca Pollard, band Blast Majesty played the Bing Lounge last If you missed the Wampire show at the Bing claims with some genuinely cool performers. shows after comes Coachella in April. How many promotions and technical assistant at Alpha November. “It was fun. The people were all Lounge on Feb. 17, don’t fret. The next New Portland State students can afford tickets to Broadcasting. “We got in touch with KPSU, and cool there,” Singer/guitarist Chad Majesty said. Music show features San Francisco band The these monster festivals? It’s hard enough to they thought it was a great idea.” Keegan Meyer, promotions director for Family Crest on March 30. More information can scrounge up enough cash to see a band at the The venue is located only a few blocks from KPSU, talked more about PSU’s involve- be found online. Search for the Bing Lounge on Roseland or Doug Fir. But there’s just nothing campus at Southwest Sixth Avenue and Madison ment in the series. “The Bing Lounge came Facebook or Twitter or follow KPSU Portland on like seeing live music, is there? Street. Though the Bing Lounge hosts world- to KPSU asking us if we would like to help Facebook for upcoming shows. And if you’re in a It has something to do with that unbeatable famous musicians from The Fray to Sarah co-promote and collaborate together for these local band that’s interested in playing at the Bing energy, people dancing around you, drinks, McLachlan, the KPSU-affiliated New Music events…We agreed to do it because we thought Lounge, you can contact Pollard for more informa- friends and just getting into the music. What shows are free and open to all ages. the idea was great,” Meyer said. “It featured tion at [email protected]. if there were an intimate downtown venue How do they do it? The free beer and pizza great bands and provided good publicity for With a simple email, broke but fun-loving PSU where you could see live local bands, enjoy come from sponsors Lagunitas Brewing Company our station. We have the on-campus residen- students can enjoy a night of music and free food and a few refreshing bottles of Lagunitas and eat and Pizza Schmizza and all it takes to get in the tial community and the college demographic, beer. And even if you can’t make it to the show, you pizza…for free? door is an email to Pollard to get on the guest list. something the Bing Lounge rarely saw in their can always watch it streaming live. It’s a pretty cool Trick question! There is such a place, and it’s And if you can’t make it to the show, no worries: venue until this.” thing the Bing Lounge is doing, and it’s backed up called the Bing Lounge. It’s owned by Alpha the Bing Lounge provides streaming video of live He said landing the Lagunitas sponsorship re- by the music experts at PSU’s own radio station. I’ll Broadcasting (the company behind Live 95.5, shows on the Internet at www.alphabroadcasting. ally helped the series take off and that KPSU is see you all there March 30. KINK 101.9 and KUPL 98.7), whose slogan is com/binglive or through your smartphone via “putting the live and local back in radio.” the free Ustream app. 24 2012 Vanguard Night Out Guide 25 Real food and a flick JEDI MINDFuck Living Room Theaters makes for a night to remember These are not the cards you’re looking for

Living the good life Tuck in and enjoy the one-of- a-kind expe- rience the Living Room Theaters provide.

Reed McClintock is Holly Laycock Portland’s magic scene Vanguard Staff

Karl Kuchs | Vanguard Staff

All Photos Corinna Scott | Vanguard Staff

If you like to mix it up on your nights out, and two hours schmoozing isn’t desirable (because, apparently, Benicio knows his look no further than the one (and only) Reed when you’re out on the town, this is one magicians). Eva-Jeanette Rawlins McClintock’s Jedi Mindfuck magic show. time you’ll enjoy losing your senses. I’ve talked with him about just what it Vanguard Staff Amidst the go-go boots, patent leather and Sitting at his red velvet station in the takes to be a world renowned magician in half-naked ladies at Dante’s, Portland’s great- Limbo Lounge of Dante’s and trying to today’s world of special effects, where mag- Movie theaters that serve oily pizza and World of Arriety. There is certain to be And as the movie makes you cry, scream est magician is just waiting to trip you out. make sense of his impossible sleight of hand ic—in the public’s eye—falls somewhere in hot dogs undoubtedly have their place, something for everyone. or laugh, a Tahitian vanilla caramel with I know what you’re thinking: “Aren’t over the thumping bass and candlelight between Siegfried and Roy’s giant specta- but when you really want to impress a Live music is often another big draw. sea salt and a Brazilian coffee for dessert magic shows meant for eight-year-olds’ leaves you dumbfounded, but the observer cles and Harry Potter’s Fizzing Whizbees. date with your fabulous, suave taste, make Fridays and Saturdays see a healthy mix of old will only make you say, “More!” birthday parties?” Or possibly, “If this guy acclimates to McClintock’s performance “I don’t do fuck-you magic,” McClintock a night of it at the Living Room Theaters. and new local artists providing entertainment. But the best part is the price. It’s $6 with owns a white rabbit, so help me…” style. He slows things down, explains what said. He wants magic to change from egotis- Offering a great selection of movies (in- Sometimes, a non-local artist makes his or her your student ID or $5 on Mondays and Rest assured. No rabbits get pulled out of he’s doing as he does it, acts surprised at his tical magic, where it’s all about “look what cluding 3D) at an affordable price, togeth- way to the theater, too; keep an eye on their Tuesdays for regular films. 3D films are a bit top hats during McClintock’s shows, which own tricks and narrates the entire experi- I can do,” to a spectacle that will leave you er with cushy seats and a restaurant feel, website to see who might be coming through. pricier at $10 for a matinee or $12 for even- bears no resemblance to Siegfried and Roy’s ence so the audience, no matter how hard reeling, which his hypnosis show will do. this theater aims to please. Their menu is impressive as well, boast- ing shows. Showtimes are available at pdx. gaudy Vegas act with sequins and tigers. they try not to be, are charmed by his hands. And if it’s just too much for you, at least Portland is home to one of only two ing a selection of delightful, tapas-style livingroomtheaters.com. Nor does an evening with McClintock Every trick left me speechless, particu- you get to see some half-naked ladies dance. Living Room Theaters; the other is lo- cuisine from hoisin flank steak skewers to consist of unpronounceable chants akin to larly his incorporation of tattoos into one cated in Boca Raton, Fla. veggie sushi rolls and a selection of cheeses Harry Potter’s Wingardium Leviosa—there incredibly convoluted card trick. Spoiler: Living Room Theaters Reed McClintock performs The movie selection is diverse, with that will make you think you’ve died and are no capes or wands. The card you pick is tattooed on his chest. livingroomtheaters.com at Dante’s every Wednesday recent showings ranging from the Freud gone to Switzerland. Their international 341 SW 10th Ave. His late-night performances are in-your- He’s that good. So good, in fact, that and Sunday night at 11 p.m. biopic A Dangerous Method to Studio wine menu meets a wide range of tastes and 971-222-2010 face, highly interactive and truly mesmer- he’s performed for Moby, the late Michael 350 W Burnside St. Ghibli’s animated fantasy, The Secret won’t break the bank either. izing. And while a disappearing a wallet, Jackson, the Crown Prince of Ethiopia 503-226-6630 keys or the chick with whom you spent $30 and is Benicio del Toro’s favorite magician 26 2012 Vanguard Night Out Guide 27

Flaming Spanish Coffee at Huber’s Cafe 411 SW Third Ave.

Huber’s Cafe is Portland’s oldest restaurant, serving up traditional turkey dinners since 1879. However, their true claim to fame is the house specialty: the Flaming Spanish Coffee. Sure, the drink may cost $10, but it’s alcohol and a show. Once you order the drink, one of Huber’s vintage-dressed Spanish captains will prepare it table-side. Be warned, you may want to remove your polar fleece jacket and tie back your hair because, yes, there’s fire involved. Huber’s signa- ture drink is a seriously deadly mix of Kahlua, Bacardi 151, triple sec and brewed coffee. It’s topped with freshly made whipped cream and sprinkled with nutmeg, making it a delicious after-dinner alternative to the typical dessert. An inside tip from the bartender: patrons can also order the Spanish Coffee over ice.

Vault Martini’s Pussy Wagon martini 226 NW 12th Ave. Nestled in the heart of the Pearl District, Vault Martini has one of the most extensive drink lists in all of Portland. Vault’s menu of- The Pussy fers more than 130 different drinks and 44 unique martinis, Wagon martini is including some that represent each of the seven deadly sins. The stand- a fiery hot out among the multitude is the Pussy Wagon martini. A fiery hot mix habanero of house-infused habañero vodka, cranberry and lime, this drink is infused not for the faint of heart. Crazy spicy, but seriously delicious, the Pussy treat. Wagon is definitely one of Vault’s finest. BREAKAWAY Karl Kuchs | Vanguard Staff Due to the bar’s overall awesomeness and relatively small square footage, the place is generally jam-packed on the weekends. Try hitting up Vault’s happy hour on a weeknight for FROM BEER a less hectic experience. Portland’s top three Andina’s piña colada hop-less drinks to try 1314 NW Glisan St. I know what you’re thinking, a plain old piña colada is one of Portland’s top drinks? Isn’t that a mom-wants-to-go-crazy-during- Katrina Petrovich the-family-vacation-in-Cancún-drink? Yes, but this version is not Vanguard staff your mama’s piña colada. Andina is one of downtown Portland’s Portland may consider itself to be the mecca of swankier drink spots. microbrewing, but that doesn’t mean all of us Specializing in traditional Peruvian fare, Andina is a fusion be- have to U-lock our bikes to a sketchy sign post tween old world South American flavors and modern tastes. Although and fake an affinity for dark brews. Sure, dollar their drink menu is relatively small, each beverage is carefully crafted beer nights at the Tortoise are great, but other for optimal deliciousness. tasty alcoholic creations besides PBR tall boys Had a bad piña colada experience? No problem, Andina also offers and Deschutes’ Black Butte Porter do exist. For updated versions of the classic margarita, daiquiri and mojito. Take those Portlanders who prefer to sip and savor an their piña colada. The Andina menu describes it as “Pineapple amber inventive, inebriating concoction in a joint with rum blended with fresh crushed pineapple, coconut milk and sugar, a dress code, here are the top three coolest (non- served frozen, topped with Gosling’s Black Seal rum and coconut hoppy) drinks you need to try in PDX: shavings.” ’Nuff said. Karl Kuchs | Vanguard Staff 28 2012 Vanguard Night Out Guide 29

WHAT’S IN A NAME?

How to identify the genre of music you’re about to hear before you hear it (and why it’s important)

| Broken Water are trying to tell you something. Saria Dy Vanguard Staff Vanguard S taff | S aria D y

1. Singular name of them are rock, folk-rock or alternative (examples include The If the artist only goes by one name, chances are it’s a pop act or Beatles, The Civil Wars, The Shins, The Beta Band, The Clash, you’re in a strip club (examples include Prince, Adele, Madonna, The Smiths, The Libertines and The Raincoats). Oftentimes, these Hannah Noble Cher, Usher and Beyonce). Thankfully, there are not a lot of lo- bands use lots of different instruments and like to mix things up, Vanguard staff cal artists who feel important enough to brand themselves with a so it’ll probably be a good show (if you’re into that sort of thing)! single name, so the risk is low. Do you ever wish you knew a little more attend the show only to discover that the 4. Dashes, numbers and caps about local music? Do you readily and loudly titular “orange” and “spaceship” refers to 2. Full name You’re about to hear some rap or hip-hop (examples include B.o.B., express your disappointment when a show pumpkin-colored astronaut stage attire and Here’s where it gets tricky. If you assume every artist going by their Jay-Z, Run-D.M.C. and Tech N9ne). Additionally, if it sounds like isn’t as good as you thought it would be? out-of-this-world synthesized beats. name is a singer-songwriter, think again (examples include Andrew the name is made up—like Eminem or LL Cool J—it’s probably We’ve all been in a situation like this: Fortunately, it’s easier than you think to Bird, John Denver, Carly Simon, Brandi Carlile, Ray LaMontagne, also rap…or you wandered back into that strip club to see Karma. You’re trying to decide what to do on a identify music genres before you subject Fiona Apple and Nick Cave). You could be going to a country show—almost every one of them goes by their name—or an ama- 5. Random words Saturday night, and a friend mentions that yourself to them. Just by looking at the teur hour. If that’s what you’re looking for, then great! But if you Utilizing random adjectives and verbs in a name is a common prac- The Orange Spaceship Monopolies are artist’s name, you can make certain as- want singer-songwriter vibe or for-sure unique sounds, you’ll have tice throughout all genres of music, so you’ll have to use your head playing at a local bar and you should come. sumptions about what you will be listening to pick one randomly based on venue or actually do some research. here; for instance, a band called Death Fuckers would probably not You utter some nonsense along the lines to for an hour of your life. Here are a few be a folk duo, but rather, a punk group. A lot of hard rock bands of: “Oh…um…yeah. Of course I’ve heard tips for making an educated, if essentially 3. Names beginning with “The” do this (examples include Deep Purple, Nine Inch Nails, Guns ’n’ of The O.S.P. They’re amazing!” and then uninformed, night-out decision: There are a lot of bands whose names begin with “The,” but most Roses and Alice in Chains), as do lots of other bands. 30 2012 Vanguard Night Out Guide 31 Smart is sexy, too. And fun.

Lindsay Caron Epstein Vanguard staff

OMSI After Dark takes place on the last Wednesday of every month.

OMSI’s McMenamin’s Mission Theatre Oregon Historical Society Bodyworld 1624 NW Glisan St. 1200 SW Park Ave. Exhibit Where you The Mission is another funky McMenamin’s es- Mere blocks from the Portland State cam- can go tablishment with geeky offerings, like the Think pus, this museum often gets lost in the shadow get your & Drink Series—a bi-monthly lecture present- of its more popular neighbor, the Portland Art anatomical ed by Oregon Humanities. One science pub Museum. In addition to its many permanent and geek on. per month is here (yep, even more OMSI) and rotating exhibits, the Oregon Historical Society Mortified—a public reading of private teen-angst hosts a series of lectures and events. The museum journal entries—is typically sold out each month. hosts a healthy mix of free lectures, fundraisers The Mission also hosts two viewings of Portlandia and pay-per-ticket events to choose from each on Fridays, with a raucous music and burlesque- month. March’s offerings include a genealogy filled intermission between the two showings. workshop and “The Science and History Behind the Cocktail.” And, like all good Portland mu- seums, the Society offers a monthly pub talk at WayPost Café McMenamin’s Kennedy School. 3120 N Williams Ave.

A sweet little café tucked between a thrift store The Freakybuttrue Peculiarium and an awesome community garden on the 2234 NW Thurman St. All photos Drew Martig | Vanguard Staff north Williams bike lane, Waypost offers a va- riety of foot-tapping and brain-churning events. One of those places that must be experienced at Oregon Museum of Science And Industry McMenamin’s Bagdad Theatre Closed Mondays, they are open the rest of the least once, the Peculiarium is only open Friday 1945 SE Water Ave. 3702 SE Hawthorne Blvd. week from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Unfortunately through Sunday from noon to 6 p.m. Feast your for some, it just got a liquor license (sorry eyes on an alien autopsy, Al Capone’s safe, bad If it’s never occurred to you that the science muse- Did you think the Bagdad was just a movie underagers). Here’s a sampling of what’s on tap (and good) art, freaky clowns, strange ephem- um could be used as a hot date night, then you’ve theater surrounded by bars and tucked into some (events-wise): “Know & Tell,” trivia for smart era and images of the occult. The small “mu- been missing out! OMSI offers an array of inter- rad architecture? It’s much more than that. The people, happens each Wednesday, and once per seum” also gives you the opportunity to munch esting events for nightlife seekers. OMSI After Bagdad hosts comedy nights, lectures and fea- month “Surprise Party Theatre” performs a show, on popcorn and hot dogs and a bug on Sundays. Dark, held the last Wednesday of each month, is a tured speakers sponsored by Powell’s books, a or rather, has the audience interactively perform Yep, a bug. Eat it, and you too can be a member 21+ night that often features libations, live music monthly OMSI science pub, fundraisers like a show—usually Shakespeare. Scripts, costumes of the Insectarian Club. Don’t miss out on the and science-themed samplings for all five senses “The Pedal-Powered Talk Show” benefitting the and roles are provided. Though most nights you Sasquatch photo op or the gift shop for all the gag ($12 for non-members). OMSI also spreads the Hawthorne Hostel and an International Fly Fishing can find live music (including a monthly classical gifts you’ve ever dreamed of, from dog poop in love throughout Oregon with twice a month Festival. It also plays host to Multnomah County’s music performance), the Waypost prides itself on a can to novelty magic tricks and black-light art science pubs. And don’t forget OmniMax, where sporadic “Sustainability Film Series,” with con- being a literary hub, with regular readings from and fixtures. you surround yourself in science, sound and troversial political pundits and emerging business authors, occasional open–mic–style readings and visuals inside the dome of OMSI’s surround presentations. Did I mention the rad architec- poetry and an interesting recurring experiment screen. Available to all ages for less dough than ture? Don’t forget to check out the Back Stage Bar for writers called the “7 Minute Reading Series.” the average megaplex theater. located on the other side of the film screen. 32