l'etoile magazine blog

Weekend What's What 1/26-1/29

2012-01-26T11:03:00.014-05:00

THURSDAY JANUARY 26TH  

Frank Gaard: Poison & Candy  

@ Walker Art Center

1750 Hennepin Ave.
Minneapolis 

6:30p.m. – 9 p.m. / Free

Grandly playful painting provocateur Frank Gaard -- the legendary enfant terrible of the Minneapolis art world -- has been a vibrant fixture on the scene for decades. His work continues to push the envelope and defy the stuffy elitism that sometimes threatens to suffocate even the best artistic talents. Gaard’s idiosyncratic mash-ups of the political and the personal vibrate with tense dream-like logic that merges the sublime and the bizarre. The Walker Art Center has set out to showcase this local legend with a dizzyingly comprehensive survey of more than 100 exciting works spanning five decades. Expect to see many of the artist’s instantly recognizable portraits, newer works with a recurring pony motif, and early illustrative work from the '70s through the '90s, as well as some other colorful surprises. The event coincides with Target Free Thursday so you can browse the rest of the Walker’s galleries after you get your Frank fix! 

Click HERE for this art event and more at mplsart.com

THURSDAY JANUARY 26TH

The FREAKONOMIQUE Music Series Presents: Monolog

@ Future Presence Gallery
1126 2nd St NE
Minneapolis

8 – 11 p.m. / free

Elusive is the name of the game for Berlin-based artist/producer, Monolog. Under the guise of a slew of different performers, the enigmatic cult “buzz band” ferociously churns out haunting electronic tracks of “sparse loops, synched vocals and conceptual design” while evading their true identity – reminiscent of the Swedish multimedia project iamamiwhoami sans the YouTube hype. Tonight, don't miss as Monolog premieres in the U.S. right here in MPLS. Collaborating alongside the peeps at the Future Presence Gallery, Monolog's multifaceted performance explores the tenets of vanity, self-involvement and self-expression. The event is one-night only, and definitely not to be missed! While you're visiting Future Presence's digs, don't miss your last chance to check out the group show, Future Presence 4, featuring the artwork of over 30 visual, sound, and film artists.

Click HERE for the Facebook event

Ecule Drift from Sune Petersen on Vimeo.

THURSDAY JANUARY 26TH

Soft Opening

@ Club Jager
923 Washington Ave N
Minneapolis

10 p.m. / 21+ / Free

Groove to smooth jams from the latest in DJ fever at Soft Opening, featuring Machen Davis & Mark McGee. Plus, revel in tasty drink specials, including $5 Jameson and $2.50 PBR, and other delish Jager libations dished out by l'etoile's resident music writer (and drink slinger), Robyn Lewis.

Click HERE for the Jager Facebook

FRIDAY JANUARY 27TH

Harriet Brewing 1-Year Anniversary Bash

@ Blue Nile
2027 E. Franklin Ave
Minneapolis

4 p.m. / All Ages/ $8 $10 at the door

If you’re looking for a little hope on the horizon, Harriet Brewing’s 1-Year anniversary bash is bound to banish your inner beer blues and lift your waning winter spirit. How you ask? With a comprehensive collection of local/live music and a whole-lotta beer tasting! Get ready for a “total tap takeover.” The Twin Cities’ very first microbrewery invites you to taste old beer favorites and sample new beer flavors as they take over 12 taps at the Blue Nile. Plan to taste your very first sip of the new Elevator Doppelboch, browse live art and jam to DJs, jazz, reggae, and folk music.

Click HERE to RSVP to the event

FRIDAY JANUARY 27TH

WORKING TITLE: An Evolving Art Exhibit  (OPENING #2)

@ CO Exhibitions 

1101 Stinson Blvd NE
Suite #2
Minneapolis

6-9 p.m. / Free

What do you get when you invite some of the Twin Cities preeminent art and design talents to collectively create, embellish, revise, and re-work dozens of pieces over the course of four weeks? We think the answer is – a sexy hotbed of fecund creativity – and we're dying to see the results! Not only have the folks over at CO Exhibitions conceived this grand experiment in art-making, they've structured it as a uniquely interactive opportunity for art makers and art lovers to participate in a dialogue about the local art scene. Each week a new opening reception will occur (this Friday being the second of four openings) displaying the changes made to each work over the past seven days. These changes can include style, concept, and number of contributors, but also price, scale, and media. Buying a piece will freeze it in time and prevent further work, so art lovers will be able to choose when a piece is complete. Additionally, surprise musical acts from artists known for their cooperative nature will pop up at each opening. We're over the moon to see what artist faves like Michael Cina, Rudy Fig, Jennifer Davis, Carly Schoen and numerous others can produce in collaboration with gallery "CO"-owners and design influencers Burlesque and Permanent ADG. This experiment in evolutionary artistic collaboration is bound to be one of the most compelling events of the year - as well as a shit-ton of fun - so if you know what's good for you you'll check it out!

BONUS: This Friday is the 2nd of four openings. Additional dates include Fri, Feb 3rd, and Fri, Feb 10th.

Click HERE for this art event and more at mplsart.com

Collaboration between Eric Melzer and Mike Cina

FRIDAY JANUARY 27TH 

The Company: St. Paul City Ballet  

@ The Ordway

McKnight Theater
345 Washington Street
St. Paul

  7:30 p.m / $35

We can’t promise any of the dancers will go full Black Swan at this performance, but you’re sure to see stunning displays of dancing prowess that will entertain and impress. The evening opens with a dazzling classic work from Raymonda and moves on to a new work entitled One from emerging New York choreographer Joseph Morrissey. Not an Etude – a joyous work set to original jazz music – and the fiery Bolero from the familiar Ravel score close out the program of performances. The unique mix of the experimental and the traditional should offer a fine overview of the multi-faceted talents of the SPCB company.

Bonus: Hob-nob with the dancers and choreographers at the Post-Show party right next door at the St. Paul Hotel!

Click HERE fort the Ordway site

FRIDAY JANUARY 27TH

The Pleasure Principals

@ Clubhouse Jäger
923 Washington Ave. N.
Minneapolis

10 p.m. / 21+/ Free

This Friday, Mike 2600 and DJ Espada are The Pleasure Principals. Prepare yourself for a night of funk-filled, unadulterated, pre-holiday pleasure as you dance to the sophisticated spinnings and double DJ remakes of old school classics. In the mood for Michael and Janet, Stevie Wonder, Stevie Nicks, Billy Idol, and Billy Ocean all under one roof? If you’re catching what we’re throwing out, you know Jag is the place to be tonight. Dress your best and snag a cup of holiday cheer, Clubhouse Jäger will provide the beer.

Click HERE for the Facebook event

FRIDAY JANUARY 27TH

Baby Boys

@ Turf Club
1601 University Ave
St. Paul

9pm / 21+ / $6

Baby Boys, the swoonworthy new indie pop outfit made up of scene vets Jeff Brown, Jeff Quin and newcomer Danny Holden, has officially captured our hearts. Poised to release their Har Mar-produced debut album, Baby Boys is at the top of our list of bands to keep under strict radar. With a hint of sweet 90's nostalgia blended with catchy sing-along indie rock hooks, it certainly wont be long before these guys are getting three spins a day on the Current! Get there early for Silver Spoons, Crimes, and Lotus Eaters.

Click HERE for the Baby Boys Facebook

SATURDAY JANUARY 28TH

Art Sled Rally at Powderhorn Park

@ Powderhorn Park
3400 15th Ave S

Minneapolis

2 p.m. / All Ages/ Free

Looking for something seasonally spectacular to do this weekend? Look no further than the South Sixteenth High Jinks 5th Annual Art Sled Rally. These collaborating artists and neighborhood residents provide you with an artsy afternoon of adventure and creativity at the scenic/historic Powderhorn Park. Prior to the races, build yourself a one-of-a-kind snow contraption and recruit fellow art lovers, friends, family and Saturday afternoon snow enthusiasts to your team. Make sure to arrive at 1:30 p.m. (sledding device in hand) to save a spot in the lineup.

Click HERE for general info on the event and participation

SATURDAY JANUARY 28TH 

Get Lucky 2012  

@ SooVAC 

2638 Lyndale Ave. S

 Minneapolis  

7 p.m. – 11:30 p.m. / $40 (Advance) $45 (Door)

Are you planning to Get Lucky this weekend? At the risk of sounding uncouth, we think you’ve got a pretty good shot. Soo Visual Arts Center’s annual benefit gala is a sure thing – and you don’t even have to buy it dinner! The event brings together Twin Cities art lovers to mingle, nosh on tasty treats, and contemplate works of art while supporting the fortunes of one of the city’s most progressive and consistent arts organizations. A diverse array of works from dozens of talented locals (including l’etoile’s own @theiverson) will be available to take home via a silent auction. DJ Black Lacquer entertains while the drinks liberally flow. We’re not saying the SooVAC is easy, but they are certainly putting out this year, so take advantage of the opportunity to Get Lucky!

Click HERE for tickets

Art by Emily Bennett-Beck

SATURDAY JANUARY 28TH 

SPLIT Videozine Launch  

@ Cult Status Gallery 

2913 Harriet Ave. S 

Minneapolis  

8 p.m. - 11 p.m. / All Ages / $5

What is a Videozine you ask? Well, in this case it’s a music/art hybrid where exclusive content from visual artists is combined with corresponding work by musical artists. SPLIT magazine is devoted to providing an outlet for the work of communities who may be marginalized or ignored by other venues. They attempt to break down boundaries using art as a common language. That’s a tall order, but fortunately SPLIT has curated some kick-ass visual and musical acts to support their vision. SPLIT’s premiere party will feature live music by Spyder Baybie Rawdog & 2% Muck, I, Colossus, and Guante, and live art including an outdoor mural. Some of the works created throughout the evening will be given away as door prizes, so you could be taking a piece of the launch home. Get a peek at some raw local talent and soak up the crackling energy of a burgeoning scene.

Click HERE for this art event and more at mplsart.com

SPILT Videozine Promo from Spilt Magazine on Vimeo.

SATURDAY JANUARY 28TH

Dearling Physique

@ Hell's Kitchen
80 S 9th St
Minneapolis

10 p.m. / 21+ / $5

Remember when The Brodsky Quartet joined Bjork to remix the already intense “Hyper-Ballad” track? Goosebumps rose. We bawled. We imagined it as our wedding song. Ah, the power of strings. Tonight, the element of live orchestra lends its melodramatics to local avant-garde electronica outfit, Dearling Physique, for a blow-your-mind event. Join as they take the stage one final time before their European tour, backed by string players Renee Klitzke of Me and My Arrow and Addy Wasson (Tiger Vs.). Besides adding an additional flare to Dearling Physique's always theatrical and visually artistic live shows, tonight's accompaniment showcases a newly chic side of DP. Prepare to feel like your sitting pretty in balcony seats, sound resonating, vibrating and ricocheting off the walls. After the performance, stick around for a mega-dance party lead by DJ Naughty Wood. It's the best of both worlds.

Click HERE for the Facebook event

SATURDAY JANUARY 28TH

Another Saturday Night

@ Kitty Kat Club
315 14 Ave. SE Minneapolis

10 p.m. / 21+ / $3

New party alert! Every fourth Saturday of the month the Kitty Kat Club will host “Another Saturday Night.” But, this isn’t just any Saturday. Come feel the hip-hop hype with awesome party purveyors, the super sexified DJ Bach and SGLD as they sizzle the vintage upholstery off those delectably dainty antique couches. Enjoy drink specials all night as you lose yourself in the incredibly heavenly candlelit atmosphere.

Click HERE for the Facebook event

SATURDAY JANUARY 28TH

Attitude City

@ Club Jager
923 Washington Ave
Minneapolis

10 p.m. / 21+ / Free

One of our favorite monthly dance jams is here! The crate-digging connoisseurs of Attitude City are at it again with their installation of music and mayhem. Join the one and only Jeff Dubois and special guest Benny Lojak for a night of delicious dance beats and Clubhouse Jager’s tasty cocktails. Not only is it free, but we guarantee that you’ll have an awesome time mingling and dancing all up on some of Minneapolis’ finest.

Click HERE for the Facebook event

SUNDAY JANUARY 29TH

Riot Act Readings Series

@ Nick & Eddie
1612 Harmon Place
Minneapolis

8 – 11 p.m.

Not for the conservative of heart, MPLS's bawdiest lit showcase strikes again this Sunday featuring an all-star, all-grit cast of talented writers, comedians, punk-poets and more. This edition's roster includes original pieces from former Zuzu's Petal's lead singer and memoir queen, Laurie Lindeen; flash fiction writer, Christopher “Jug” George; Paper Darts editorial queen bee, Regan Smith; West Bank comedian, Rana May; and, of course, work from literary vets and Riot Act hosts, Laura Brandenburg and Paul D. Dickinson. Have a brew – and if you're feeling generous – buy one for the Riot Act crew; chances are they'll accept. Nothing wets the reading whistle like a cold one.

Click HERE for the Facebook event

Editor in Chief: Kate Iverson // Contributors: Juleana Enright, Kate Iverson, Robyn Lewis, Jahna Peloquin, Stefani Arden, Anthony Enright

l'etoile's Guide to Sales & Shopping: January 23-30

2012-01-24T22:16:00.004-05:00

Edited and written by Jahna Peloquin, l'étoile Fashion Editor

Updated weekly with exclusive sales, shopping news, special offers and stylish events at the Twin Cities' hippest shopping destinations, our comprehensive shopping guide is the go-to guide for the local fashion fanatic.

SALES & SHOPPING FOR WEEK OF JANUARY 24-30:

Tuesday-Friday: Silvercocoon's Fab.com Sale
What: Local jewelry line Silvercocoon is hosting a sale over at e-retailer Fab.com for three days this week. Items available for sale include wool laser-cut cuffs, bracelets, necklaces and earrings, plus some leather and wood earrings. While you're on the site, check out Fab.com's Valentine's pop-up shop, which includes seven exclusive Silvercocoon pieces.
When: Sale runs Thursday, January 24-Friday, January 27; pop-up shop runs now through February 12.
Where: Fab.com (free membership sign-up required)

Thursday: Girls' Night Out at Covered
What: Grab your girlfriends and head to Uptown boutique Covered for a night of shopping, wine, deals and freebies. Enjoy samples from World Class Wines, 20 percent off your entire purchase, and a swag bag filled with goodies - make-up, an Idea tank top, and a bottle of wine - with a $150 purchase.
When: 5-8 p.m. Thursday, January 26.
Where: Covered, 1201 Lagoon Avenue, Minneapolis, 612-825-1610, www.shopcovered.com

Friday & Saturday: Mighty Swell Men's Sale
What: Guys typically get the shaft when it comes to vintage shopping. But occasional vintage seller Mighty Swell is making up for that with their first-ever men's sale. They're rounded up additional vendors such as Greenwich Village, Things I Found, and It's For Nice (pictured) to fill their storefront with vintage clothing, outerwear, shoes, accessories and retro man-pad decor. The two-day shopping event will also include free beer and a soundtrack from DJ Danny Sigelman, who will also be selling a curated a collection of vintage vinyl with most records priced at $10 or less. Ladies, don't fret: Mighty Swell is hosting a Valentine-themed, lingerie-centric shopping event on February 10.
When: 5-9 p.m. Friday, January 27 & Noon-5 p.m. Saturday, January 28.
Where: Mighty Swell, 3109 E 42nd Street, Minneapolis, www.mightyswell.com

Saturday: Two Birds Vintage Styling Event
What: Two Birds Vintage is capping off their month-long residency at b. resale with some styling assistance. The vintage experts from Two Birds will be on had to help put together looks from their affordable, finely-edited selection of vintage women's wearables. Bubbly and sweets will be provided while you shop.
When: 3-5 p.m. Saturday, January 27.
Where: b. resale, 5456 Nicollet Avenue, Minneapolis, 612-824-1292, Two Birds on Etsy

Friday-Sunday: 50th & France Block Party Blowout Sale
What: The boutiques of 50th and France are teaming up this weekend for a progressive sale. Bluebird, Ladyslipper, Bumbershute (pictured), Room No. 3, and The Firm will offer up to 90 percent off plus refreshments and other special offers.
When: 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Friday, January 27; 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Saturday, January 28 & 12–5 p.m. Sunday, January 29.
Where: The Shops at 50th & France, www.50thandfrance.com

Saturday: New Merchandise Party at VState
What: Uptown boutique VState is celebrating new spring arrivals with a shopping party. Enjoy first dibs on the new merch plus cocktails, snacks, and the opportunity to draw for gifts and offers including bottles of wine and 50 percent off your purchase that evening.
When: Saturday, January 28.
Where: VState, 3001 Hennepin Avenue S, Minneapolis, 612-823-4699, www.vstateclothing.com

MORE LOCAL SALES & SHOPPING:

Ongoing: Spinario Design Moving Sale
What: Vintage interiors haven Spinario have already moved to their new digs, but for a limited time, much of the stock at their old location will be 20 percent off. Merchandise available at discount currently includes Paul McCobb, Dunbar, Alvar Aalto, Scandinavian glass, original mid-century art, paintings, prints, and sculpture, studio pottery, books, records, lighting, and much more. New items will be added regularly, and prices will continue to drop to 40 and 60 percent off as they sale continues.
When: Ongoing.
Where: Spinario Design, 1300 2nd Street NE, Minneapolis, 612-396-1860, www.spinariodesign.com

Through Sunday: My Sister's Closet Annual Winter Sale
What: Next Monday, beloved vintage and designer consignment shop My Sister's Closet is kicking off their infamous semi-annual 50% sale. That's right - that means a whopping half-off all items in both their Grand Avenue and Uptown locations. We've scored gorgeous vintage dresses during this sale for $20 a pop, not to mention never-worn, 1980s Donna Karan ankle wrap heels for $15, so this sale (running for two weeks) is nothing to scoff at. Get there early for the best finds.
When: Monday, January 16-Sunday, January 29.
Where: 2741 Hennepin Avenue, Minneapolis. 612-886-2891; 1136 Grand Avenue, St. Paul, 612-222-2819, www.mysistersclosetmn.com

Ongoing: SHIP&SHAPE launches Valentine's Day collection
What: When Minneapolis-based online retailer SHIP&SHAPE launched last fall, we were ecstatic over the charmingly edited collection of clothing, jewelry, stationery and more by local luminaries such as Rachel Blomgren, Annika Kaplan, Molly Erickson, Erin Smith and Isa Gagarin. With their second collection, launching this weekend exclusively at www.shipandshape.com, the collective offers an ode to love with a Valentine's-themed collection called "Be Mine." The romantic collection ranges from the overtly love-themed, like the ceramic mug sets with the phrase "I love you" written out in various languages; or more subtly sweet, like ruffled cotton bloomers and a porcelain lace collar. Each item is available in ultra-limited runs of about five a piece, so get them while they're hot.
When: Launching Sunday, January 15.
Where: www.shipandshape.com

Through Feb. 5: Sashay Shantay at Art Shanty Projects
What: Local fashion makes its first foray into the Art Shanties on Medicine Lake with the Sashay Shantay. Shanty-goers can don hardy knits and coats by local designers Danielle Everine (of Project Runway fame), Rachel Blomgren (pictured), Lela Horst Baumann, Carly Shoen and others in a stylized photo booth. Plus, the handmade creations will be showcased in an on-ice runway daily.
When: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturdays & Sundays through February 5. Fashion shows at 1 p.m.
Where: Medicine Lake, 17th Avenue N & Highway 169, Plymouth, www.artshantyprojects.org

Ongoing: "Character in Costume: A Jack Edwards Retrospective"
What: Twin Cities costume designer Jack Edwards is about the closest we'll come to having our own Edith Head. His fabled history has included stints working as the right hand man alongside some of New York’s significant 1960s costume designers, an 18-year tenure as the Guthrie Theater’s Costume Director, and a dozen years as costume designer for the iconic 8th Floor Christmas Fantasy Lands at Dayton's. His sizable body of work - including dozens of costume sketches, photographs, press clippings, playbills, reviews, and 30 actual costumes designed by Edwards - will finally receive its own stage during the Goldstein's Jack Edwards retrospective, "Character in Costume."
When: Exhibition runs through
Where: Goldstein Museum of Design, 241 McNeal Hall, 1985 Buford Avenue, University of Minnesota's St. Paul Campus, 612-624-7434, goldstein.design.umn.edu

Ongoing: martinpatrick3's Winter Clearance
What: Dandy martinpatrick3’s winter clearance kicks off this weekend. Save for a few minor exceptions, expect discounts of 20% throughout the store, and nearly all seasonal clothing and accessories will be marked at 40% off.
When: Tuesday, January 10 through mid-February or while supplies last.
Where: martinpatrick3, 121 N 1st Street, Minneapolis, 612-746-5329, www.martinpatrick3.com

Ongoing: Grethen House 70% Off Sale
What: Grethen House kicks off its semi-annual 70% off sale this weekend, slashing prices on fall and winter goods from designers like Comme des Garçons, Maison Martin Margiela, Yigal Azrouël, Gunex, Rozae Nichols, Theyskens' Theory (pictured) and Rick Owens.
When: Ongoing.
Where: Grethen House, 4930 France Avenue, Edina, 952-926-8725, www.grethenhouse.com

Ongoing: Covered's Semi-Annual Blowout Sale
What: Head over to Uptown denim haven Covered to snag discounts of 30 to 90% off all fall and winter merchandise. New items will be added daily, and if you mention seeing this blog, you can take an additional 10% off new arrivals.
When: Now through January 31.
Where: Covered, 1201 Lagoon Avenue, Minneapolis, 612-825-1610, www.shopcovered.com

Ongoing: Bionic Unicorn Blowout Jewelry Sale
What: Local jewelry line Bionic Unicorn is at the bottom of a jewelry avalanche, so to make room for my spring collections, designer Kristin Berwald is having her biggest sale ever. Some items have been marked down up to 50 percent, and more items will be added daily. Visit the designer's Etsy shop to see the goodies.
When: Ongoing.
Where: www.etsy.com/shop/bionicunicorn

Ongoing: Walker Shop After-Holidays Sale
What: The Walker Art Center's excellently-curated Walker Shop kicked off its after-holidays sale in the shop and online this week. Items range from the sleek, modern Alessi Disco Volante Tray to a decorative cardboard skull, marked 50 percent off or more.
When: Ongoing.
Where: Walker Shop at Walker Art Center, 1750 Hennepin Avenue, Minneapolis, 612-375-7633, shop.walkerart.org

Ongoing: FinnStyle Winter Sale
What: Get as much as 50 percent off Marimekko, iittala, and other top Finnish brands during the New Year Sale at FinnStyle. The sale includes clothing, bedding, fabric, and jewelry, plus there are deals in store you won't find online.
When: While supplies last.
Where: FinnStyle, 160 Glenwood Avenue, Minneapolis, 612-333-2127, www.finnstyle.com

Ongoing: Stephanie's Stock-up Sale
What: The more you buy, the more you’ll save during Stephanie’s stock-up sale: buy one item and receive 20 percent off, buy two for 30 percent off, and buy three or more items for 40 percent off on names like Nicole Miller, Tibi, Autumn Cashmere, Citizens of Humanity, David Meister, James Jeans, and Susana Monaco. Shop early for the best savings.
When: Through January 31.
Where: Stephanie's, 758 Cleveland Av. S., St. Paul, 651-690-3802, www.stephaniesshop.com

Ongoing: Karma's Winter Sale
What: Karma is adding to an already significant on-going sale following Christmas. The clearance event will include up to half of the store and will feature 50-80 percent discounts on clothing and accessories.
When: Ongoing.
Where: Karma, 867 Grand Ave., St. Paul, 651-291-1997, www.karmashops.com

Ongoing: Cliché’s Color Dot Sale
What: Cliché’s color dot sale includes 10 to 50 percent off select fall and winter inventory. They have also marked down select winter wool coats 30% off.
When: Ongoing.
Where: Cliché, 2403 Lyndale Av. S., Minneapolis, 612-870-0420, www.clichempls.com

Ongoing: Arafina's Winter Sale
What: At Arafina, take 50 to 70 percent off all fall and winter merchandise.
When: Ongoing.
Where: Arafina, 3365 Galleria, Edina, 952-925-1565, www.arafina.com

Ongoing: Drama's Winter Sale
What: Drama just marked a big selection of fall and winter merchandise down 30 to 70 percent.
When: Ongoing.
Where: Drama Boutique, 1203 Lagoon Avenue, Minneapolis, 612-338-9423, shopatdrama.com

Ongoing: OPM's Winter Sale
What: Receive 50 percent off all fall and winter merchandise for OPM Facebook fans only; click here to "like" the page.
When: Ongoing
Where: OPM, 3700 Grand Way, St. Louis Park, 952-567-7399, www.opmboutique.com

Ongoing: Pumpz & Co. Winter Sale
What: Designer shoe boutique Pumpz & Co. is taking 50 percent off select fall and winter styles by names like Alexander Wang, Frye, Stuart Weitzman, Tory Burch, Tila March, Carlos Falchi and more, plus 70 percent off previous season styles in the sale room.
When: Ongoing
Where: Pumpz & Co., 3335 Galleria, Edina, 952-926-2252, www.pumpzandco.com

Ongoing: Parc Boutique's Winter Sale
What: Parc Boutique’s winter sale features 30 to 75 percent on all fall and winter merchandise.
When: Ongoing.
Where: Parc Boutique, 320 E. Hennepin Av., Minneapolis, 320 E. Hennepin Ave., Minneapolis, 612-353-4966, www.parcboutique.com

Ongoing: Grand Hand Gallery Winter Sale
What: The Grand Hand's annual Winter Sale includes discounts on holiday items. Find handcrafted holiday ornaments, winter wearables and selected jewelry marked down 20 to 70 percent, with more items and discounts to be added throughout the sale. Come early for best selection.
When: December 26-January 22.
Where: 619 Grand Ave., St. Paul, 651-312-1122, www.thegrandhand.com

Ongoing: Bibelot's Winter Sale
What: Get 50 percent off select gifts and décor and 30 to 70 percent off women’s clothing.
When: Ongoing.
Where: Four metro locations, including 1082 Grand Ave., St. Paul, 651-222-0321, www.bibelotshops.com

Ongoing: russell+hazel's Winter Sale
What: At the flagship store for chic paper brand russell+hazel , enjoy 50–60 percent off all Mara Mi holiday items and other select products.
Where: Ongoing.
When: 4388 France Ave., S., Minneapolis, 952-279-1360, russellandhazel.com

Ongoing: Local Motion's Blowout Clearance Sale
What: Local Motion’s blowout clearance sale includes 30 to 50 percent off most fall items. Also kicking off this week is the ongoing happy hour Fridays, with a different item on sale each week from 4 to 6 p.m. plus treats and refreshments.
When: Ongoing.
Where: Local Motion, 2813 Hennepin Ave. S., Minneapolis, 612-871-8436, www.localmotionmpls.com

Ongoing: n'etc Winter Sale
What: Designer boutique n'etc kicks off its winter sale on Black Friday, offering 50 percent off all fall and winter merchandise.
When: Ongoing.
Where: n'etc, 5005 France Avenue S, Edina, 612-922-9321, www.netcmsp.com

Weekend What's What 1/19-1/21

2012-01-19T11:17:00.016-05:00

THURSDAY JANUARY 19TH

  Third Thursdays / Standards: Mark Ostapchuk & 90° South: Chris Willcox  

@ Minneapolis Institute of Art
2400 Third Avenue South
Minneapolis 

6 p.m. – 9 p.m. / Free

Head to the MIA tonight for a double dose of artsy fun. Kick things off by sipping a "MIA Tai" and relaxing in the "pop up park" that will remind you of the breezy, warm days of yore. Get your pic snapped in the Yelp photo booth, then bop to the fresh beats of electro outfit, Apollo Cobra. But that's not all: hit the MAEP Gallery for Standards, a combined show that highlights the talents of two local arts educators who also produce accomplished and impressive work of their own. U of M prof Mark Ostapchuk produces large abstract oil paintings inspired by his knowledge of jazz and the improvisational style so important in that musical milieu. Chis Wilcox – who teaches painting at Macalester – has developed a series of haunting and ghostly works inspired by documentary photographs from early Antarctic expeditions. The results are both aesthetically intriguing and fraught with contextual depth. Come see this great work and support MAEP's role in highlighting a duo of Minnesota artists at the top of their game!

Click HERE for the MIA site

THURSDAY JANUARY 19TH

Dirty Girls Come Clean: The Return!

@ Nimbus Theatre
1517 Central Ave NE
Minneapolis

7:30 p.m.

Featuring hilar work by some of the most provocative writers and performers in the Twin Cities, Freshwater Theatre proudly hosts the triumphant two-week return of Dirty Girls Come Clean. With “confessional and introspective” rant material from resident members Amy Salloway, Kjersti Bohrer, Alison Witham, Courtney McLean, Ariel Leaf and J. Merril Motz, plus newcomers Mame Pelletier, Hannah Holman, Katie Starks and more, this production should be an empowering and gut-busting exploration of feminism and cultural idioms. Tonight's performance features the Gaymerica Book Launch Party and Variety Show. Don't miss January 27th's show featuring special guest, the diabolically sassy Mayda. Proceeds from the show will go towards the local chapter of Dress for Success.

Click HERE for the Facebook event

THURSDAY JANUARY 19TH

Paper Darts vs. The Tangential Smackdown

@ The Nomad
501 Cedar Ave
Minneapolis

7 – 10 p.m. / 21+

Mirror, mirror on the wall, who's the wittiest writer of them all? Tonight, join the local literary gurus of Paper Darts and the hilariously snark-centric Tangential team as they go head to head in a “certified WWE (Weakass Writers Event)/metaphorical cagematch.” Prepare to be engaged as writers share their most epigrammatic, clever and sardonic pieces to date. Judge readings by John Jodzio, Jay Gabler, Becky Lang, Eric Vrooman, Katie Sisneros, Heidi Thomasoni, Regan Smith, John Gordon, Sarah Morean, and Dunstan McGill. The audience chooses the winner so get your thunderclap on -- we're hoping there will be an applause-o-meter akin to the one Casey Casim used on Saved By the Bell. Yeah, you remember it. Have a beer and buy a round for your favorite writer, we hear booze helps loosen the tongue.

Click HERE for the Paper Darts blog

FRIDAY JANUARY 20TH

Accumulation Reception

@ MCAD Whittier Gallery
2840 Grand Ave
Minneapolis

6 – 9 p.m. / Free

What happens to art students after MCAD? See first hand as Compound MCAD MFA hosts a retrospective exhibit reception like no other. Explore the latest artistic endeavors from over 20 current and post-MCAD MFA students from a variety of disciplines selected by guest juror, John Rasmussen – Executive Director of the Midway Contemporary Art Center. Peep new art, hobnob with the artists, enjoy refreshments and design an answer the question “is there life after art school?”.

Click HERE for this art event and more at mplsart.com

FRIDAY JANUARY 20TH 

 LANDSCAPE: The View From Earth

@ Two Tigers Gallery
Northwinds Lofts Building
2400 North 2nd Street (Suite 107 and 113)
Minneapolis

  7 p.m. – 10 p.m. / Free

The Landscape is a foundational tool in an artist's repertoire. Simple in concept, yet endlessly variable in execution, it's a perfect expression of an artist's style. The 8 local and international artists whose work makes up Two Tiger's Gallery's exhibit LANDSCAPE bring their unique perspective to works in various media with images ranging from the hyper-real to the whimsically surreal. The international flavor of the works makes the exhibit a study in stylistic contracts and influences. The opening evening also features a musical performance by soulful singer and guitarist Michelle Lynn. Come see 8 artists prove the enduring vibrancy of the Landscape!

Click HERE for this art event and more at mplsart.com

FRIDAY JANUARY 20TH

C.L.A.P. Mixer at Yeti

@ Yeti Records
3506 Nicollet Ave. S
Minneapolis

7 p.m. / All Ages / Free

Calling all ladies: this Friday, party the night away with C.L.A.P (Creative Ladies are Powerful). C.L.A.P’s first ever mixer, celebrates the release of the group’s winter issue. Sip and snack as you enjoy a night of intimate film screenings, magical music, and creative portraits brought to you by the lovely Lisa Luck. Enjoy music from the Burglars, Bernadine Ophelia (Molly of Heavy Deeds), and a DJ set by Hot Roxx. Any ladies who are interested in showing off their creative talents are encouraged to contact: creativeladiesarepowerful@gmail.com or just arrive with your wonderful works of art! Copies of the newest issue of C.L.A.P will be available for purchase at Yeti Records.

Click HERE for the Facebook event

FRIDAY JANUARY 20TH 

Maudlin T-Shirt Party

  @ Amsterdam Bar and Hall
6 W. 6th Street
St. Paul

  8 p.m. - 1 a.m. / Free

Local indie rock trio Maudlin stake a claim on the Amsterdam Bar this Friday with a bevy of musical friends for a ear-poppin' t-shirt release party. Fellow local rockers Al Church and State, buzzworthy foursome The Brutes and charismatic rock masters Blue Sky Blackout round out the bill. If you're wondering why new t-shirts are a big deal, we're not certain either, but hell, who doesn't like a good band T? Trust us, these four acts each put on a fantastic show, so any excuse to get them together is justified. Throw on your ratty, vintage Ziggy Stardust shirt (with optional armpit holes) and head over to ye olde St. Paul!

Click HERE for the Facebook event

FRIDAY JANUARY 20TH

Father You See Queen "47" EP release show

@ 7th St. Entry
701 1st Ave
Minneapolis

9pm / 21+ / $7

From the ashes of revered Kranky-signed local dreamsters To Kill a Petty Bourgeoisie, comes the latest project from swoon-worthy Mark McGee: Father You See Queen (or, FUCQ - clever!). Juxtaposing the ethereal, ghostly howls of Nicole Tollefson with a backdrop of McGee's heavily labored beats, an atmosphere is created that lies somewhere between Beach House and...well, a haunted house. Tonight they present an extremely limited pre-release of their new EP 47, each beautifully packaged in a hand-crafted music box made by artists Jason Wasyk and Danielle Voight. This Friday, Father You See Queen will perform with drummer extraordinaire JT Bates and power-bassist Adam Marx of the Seawhores and will be joined by a stellar line-up of supporting acts including The Cloak Ox, Marijuana Deathsquads, and Robust Worlds. We expect you'll walk away from this show with a new favorite band.

Click HERE for the Facebook event

FRIDAY JANUARY 20TH

Wants Vs. Needs

@ Record Room

701 N. 1st Ave

Minneapolis

10 p.m. / 21+ / $3

When every Friday rolls around, we’re once again stuck in this little dilemma – not only do we want to get our feet movin’ to a beat, but we absolutely NEED to. Well, this Friday we’re all taken care of because Wants vs. Needs is back again to rid us of our body groovin’ cravings all night long at the Record Room. DJ quintuplets Anton, So Gold, Espada, Booka B and Petey Wheatstraw will be controlling the musical buzz throughout the evening while you get your grabs of limited edition Anton Pearson-designed t-shirts.

Click HERE to purchase advance tix (recommended)

SATURDAY JANUARY 21ST

Rock 'n Roll Breakfast Series: Heavy Deeds at Treehouse Records

@ Treehouse Records
2557 Lyndale Ave S.
Minneapolis

10 a.m. / All Ages/ Free

What sounds better than a little rock ‘n roll with your breakfast? This Saturday, hop out of bed and hit up the Heavy Deeds show at Treehouse Records. Catch the gang’s 2nd installment of the Rock ‘n Roll Breakfast Series, an event guaranteed to have you waking up on the right side of the bed (for those sans Friday night hangovers, that is). Heavy Deeds is a five-piece band that includes a handful of ex-members from local fave, Vampire Hands. The local crew crashed the Minneapolis music scene a few months ago and has since ignited an interested following, which only seems to be growing. Enjoy coffee, scones, and muffins as you groove with the early-rising Treehouse set. And buy a record while you're there, eh?

RSVPs are requested HERE

SATURDAY JANUARY 21ST 

WORKING TITLE: An Evolving Art Exhibit  (OPENING #1)

@ CO Exhibitions 

1101 Stinson Blvd NE

Suite #2
Minneapolis

7 p.m. - 10 p.m. / Free

What do you get when you invite some of the Twin Cities preeminent art and design talents to collectively create, embellish, revise, and re-work dozens of pieces over the course of four weeks? We think the answer is – a sexy hotbed of fecund creativity – and we're dying to see the results! Not only have the folks over at CO Exhibitions conceived this grand experiment in art-making, they've structured it as a uniquely interactive opportunity for art makers and art lovers to participate in a dialogue about the local art scene. Each week a new opening reception will occur displaying the changes made to each work over the past seven days. These changes can include style, concept, and number of contributors, but also price, scale, and media. Buying a piece will freeze it in time and prevent further work, so art lovers will be able to choose when a piece is complete. Additionally, surprise musical acts from artists known for their cooperative nature will pop up at each opening. We're over the moon to see what artist faves like Michael Cina, Rudy Fig, Jennifer Davis, Carly Schoen and numerous others can produce in collaboration with gallery "CO"-owners and design influencers Burlesque and Permanent ADG. This experiment in evolutionary artistic collaboration is bound to be one of the most compelling events of the year - as well as a shit-ton of fun - so if you know what's good for you you'll check it out!

Bonus: This Saturday is the first of four openings--the art will evolve each week. Additional dates are Fri, Jan 27th, Fri, Feb 3rd, and Fri, Feb 10th.

Click HERE for this art event and more at mplsart.com

SATURDAY JANUARY 21ST 

Juicy Steak Moustache

  @ Anita Sue Kolman Gallery
Northrup King Building

Suite 395
1500 Jackson St. NE
Minneapolis

  7:30 p.m. - 10:30 p.m. / Free

Can you have your moustache and eat it too? Not sure you'd want to, but the option sounds more appealing when it's presented as a Juicy Moustache Steak! With a title that references the moustache themed work of featured artist Atom Pechman, this exhibit of fanciful yet serious art by 8 local artists is a playful take on the traditional group show. The work shows an unusual range with pieces from artists whose mediums and approaches could hardly be more different. From Betsy Ruth Byers fantastic abstract paintings to the intricate sculptural work of Kelly Jean Oh and the decorative glass of Dan Mather you're sure to find a piece that speaks your language. An appreciation of moustaches and red meat is definitely not required (but it is encouraged)!

Click HERE for this art event and more at mplsart.com

SATURDAY JANUARY 21ST

City of Sound CD Release Party

@ Fine Line
318 1st Ave N
Minneapolis

8 p.m. – 2 a.m. / $5 for 21+, $8 for 18-20

Reminiscent of early At the Drive-In, Muse and a dash of Radiohead, local experimental prog rockers, are nothing short of a music explosion. Spewing effusive glitches, vocals that range from the distorted to caterwauling falsetto and a massive mass of reverb, listening to City of Sound is basically the equivalent of a tune aneurysm – and we mean that in the best way possible. Tonight, catch City of Sound live celebrating the release of their sophomore album, Creatures. Pick up your copy, plus feast your ears on live sets by locals brit rock inspired indie rockers, The Idle Hands; nerd slut/indie-rappers, Spyder Baybie & 2%; and folk-pop rockers, Better Bones.

Click HERE for the Facebook event

SATURDAY JANUARY 21ST

Forever Young

@ Uptown VFW
2916 Lyndale Ave
Minneapolis

9 p.m. – 2 a.m. / 21+ / $5, $3 w/ FB RSVP

Uptown's monthly dance par-tay evokes everything you loved about the 90's – hammer pants, floral sweater vests, neon shades, Full House, superfluous flicks about ninjas and surfers – all in dance-worthy form. Tonight, another installments unabashingly brings you R&B ballads, hip house wonders, and 'pump up the jam' house hits spun by resident DJs Snakebite and Cloud. No boy band track is safe nor Eurotrash hit too obscure. Sip down 2 dolla PBRs, enjoy mad drink specials, groove to the deepest of the deep bass beats and flaunt your pimpin-est late 80's/90's wear.

Click HERE to RSVP for reduced admission

SATURDAY JANUARY 21ST

The Funeral and the Twilight + CLAPS + The Rope

@ Hexagon Bar
2600 27th Ave S
Minneapolis

10 p.m. / 21+ / Free

You are entering dark territory. Words like “post-goth”, “thrash” “negative rock” and “gaze” are being thrown your way. You have two options: turn away from the fog and reverb and live your life is boring peace or paint upside-down crosses on your forehead and proceed into the caliginous night. Tonight, embrace your dark side and catch live sets from local gloom pop band, Hollow Boys, propulsive dark post-punk from The Rope, satanic jazzy Christian Death-esque shoegaze from The Funeral and the Twilight and dark 'n' depressing – yet entirely danceable – electro from CLAPS. Some attendees will go all maudlin, others may form a satanic coven. We'll let you be the judge of your evening.

Click HERE for the Facebook event

Editor in Chief: Kate Iverson // Contributors: Juleana Enright, Kate Iverson, Robyn Lewis, Jahna Peloquin, Stefani Arden, Anthony Enright

l'etoile's Guide to Sales & Shopping: January 16-22

2012-01-15T19:15:00.007-05:00

Edited and written by Jahna Peloquin, l'étoile Fashion Editor

Updated weekly with exclusive sales, shopping news, special offers and stylish events at the Twin Cities' hippest shopping destinations, our comprehensive shopping guide is the go-to guide for the local fashion fanatic.

SALES & SHOPPING FOR WEEK OF JANUARY 16-22:

Just launched: SHIP&SHAPE launches Valentine's Day collection
What: When Minneapolis-based online retailer SHIP&SHAPE launched last fall, we were ecstatic over the charmingly edited collection of clothing, jewelry, stationery and more by local luminaries such as Rachel Blomgren, Annika Kaplan, Molly Erickson, Erin Smith and Isa Gagarin. With their second collection, launching this weekend exclusively at www.shipandshape.com, the collective offers an ode to love with a Valentine's-themed collection called "Be Mine." The romantic collection ranges from the overtly love-themed, like the ceramic mug sets with the phrase "I love you" written out in various languages; or more subtly sweet, like ruffled cotton bloomers and a porcelain lace collar. Each item is available in ultra-limited runs of about five a piece, so get them while they're hot.
When: Launching Sunday, January 15.
Where: www.shipandshape.com

Beginning Monday: My Sister's Closet Annual Winter Sale
What: Next Monday, beloved vintage and designer consignment shop My Sister's Closet is kicking off their infamous semi-annual 50% sale. That's right - that means a whopping half-off all items in both their Grand Avenue and Uptown locations. We've scored gorgeous vintage dresses during this sale for $20 a pop, not to mention never-worn, 1980s Donna Karan ankle wrap heels for $15, so this sale (running for two weeks) is nothing to scoff at. Get there early for the best finds.
When: Monday, January 16-Sunday 29.
Where: 2741 Hennepin Avenue, Minneapolis. 612-886-2891; 1136 Grand Avenue, St. Paul, 612-222-2819, www.mysistersclosetmn.com

Through Feb. 5: Sashay Shantay at Art Shanty Projects
What: Local fashion makes its first foray into the Art Shanties on Medicine Lake with the Sashay Shantay. Shanty-goers can don hardy knits and coats by local designers Danielle Everine (of Project Runway fame), Rachel Blomgren (pictured), Lela Horst Baumann, Carly Shoen and others in a stylized photo booth. Plus, the handmade creations will be showcased in an on-ice runway daily.
When: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily, Saturday, January 14-Sunday, February 5.
Where: Medicine Lake, 17th Avenue N & Highway 169, Plymouth, www.artshantyprojects.org

Friday & Saturday: gh2 50% off sale
What: High-end consignment shop gh2 is kicking off its semi-annual 50% off sale this weekend. Everything but a rack or two of new arrivals will be marked down, including labels such as Isabel Marant, Balenciaga, Rachel Comey, Raquel Allegra, Christian Louboutin, Marni, Jil Sander, Miu Miu, and Issey Miyake.
When: Friday, January 20 & Saturday, January 21.
Where: gh2, 318 E Hennepin Avenue, Minneapolis, 612-378-0509, www.shopgh2.com

Friday: FOUND: The Art of Wedding
What: Weddings are becoming more of an art-directed production than ever, thanks to the sophisticated eye, taste and craft of local photographers, videographers, designers, stationers, florists, and bakers. Some of the most artistically-inclined independent wedding brands in the Twin Cities will be on display at "FOUND: The Art of Wedding," an event curated by photographer Eliesa Johnson of Photogen Inc. It will feature fine-art installations by Photogen Inc. and Rivets and Roses, fashion designer Tara LaTour, floral designers Munster Rose, filmmakers Capture Studios and stationer Paperista, plus complimentary copies of the latest issue of Minnesota Bride, tunes from Flow DJ, treats from Cocoa & Fig and sparkling cider from Crispin.
When: 6-10 p.m. Friday, January 20.
Where: 514 Studios, 514 N 3rd Street, Ste 101, Minneapolis. www.foundevent.com

Friday: "Character in Costume: A Jack Edwards Retrospective"
What: Twin Cities costume designer Jack Edwards is about the closest we'll come to having our own Edith Head. His fabled history has included stints working as the right hand man alongside some of New York’s significant 1960s costume designers, an 18-year tenure as the Guthrie Theater’s Costume Director, and a dozen years as costume designer for the iconic 8th Floor Christmas Fantasy Lands at Dayton's. His sizable body of work - including dozens of costume sketches, photographs, press clippings, playbills, reviews, and 30 actual costumes designed by Edwards - will finally receive its own stage during the Goldstein's Jack Edwards retrospective, "Character in Costume," which kicks of with an opening reception this Friday.
When: Opening reception 6-8 p.m. Friday, January 20. Exhibition runs through
Where: Goldstein Museum of Design, 241 McNeal Hall, 1985 Buford Avenue, University of Minnesota's St. Paul Campus, 612-624-7434, goldstein.design.umn.edu

Friday-Sunday: Galleria's Clearance Experience
What: Upscale shopping center Galleria's biggest clearance event of the season gets underway this weekend. Take 70 to 80 percent off on fall and winter styles and accessories at designer boutique Arafina; 50 percent off select shirts, ties, sweaters at locally-made men's shop Hammer Made; and 50 percent off select items at accessories boutique StyledLife and designer shoe boutique Pumpz & Co. Visit www.galleria.com for a full listing of sales and special offers.
When: Friday, January 20-Sunday, January 22.
Where: 3510 Galleria, Edina. 952-925-4321, www.galleria.com

Ongoing: martinpatrick3's Winter Clearance
What: Dandy martinpatrick3’s winter clearance kicks off this weekend. Save for a few minor exceptions, expect discounts of 20% throughout the store, and nearly all seasonal clothing and accessories will be marked at 40% off.
When: Tuesday, January 10 through mid-February or while supplies last.
Where: martinpatrick3, 121 N 1st Street, Minneapolis, 612-746-5329, www.martinpatrick3.com

Ongoing: Grethen House 70% Off Sale
What: Grethen House kicks off its semi-annual 70% off sale this weekend, slashing prices on fall and winter goods from designers like Comme des Garçons, Maison Martin Margiela, Yigal Azrouël, Gunex, Rozae Nichols, Theyskens' Theory (pictured) and Rick Owens.
When: Ongoing.
Where: Grethen House, 4930 France Avenue, Edina, 952-926-8725, www.grethenhouse.com

Ongoing: Covered's Semi-Annual Blowout Sale
What: Head over to Uptown denim haven Covered to snag discounts of 30 to 90% off all fall and winter merchandise. New items will be added daily, and if you mention seeing this blog, you can take an additional 10% off new arrivals.
When: Now through January 31.
Where: Covered, 1201 Lagoon Avenue, Minneapolis, 612-825-1610, www.shopcovered.com

Beginning Sunday: Bloomingdale's Closing Sale
What: The Mall of America announced today that longtime anchor store Bloomingdale's would be closing in March, to be replaced by four yet-to-be-named "major international fashion-forward retail stores." And with the closing comes a big, blowout sale. The sale will begin this Sunday, running through the March closing.
When: Beginning Sunday, through March.
Where: Bloomingdale's, Mall of America, Bloomington, 952-883-2500, www.bloomingdales.com

Ongoing: Two Birds Vintage Pops up at b. resale
What: Local vintage vendor Two Birds Vintage kicks off a month-long pop-up sale at b. resale this week. The collection tailored to the resale shop's contemporary-meets-retro vibe features a selection of affordable vintage dresses, skirts, tops, and accessories. Need help finding just the right outfit? The vendor will also be hosting a personal shopping and styling event on January 28 from 3 to 5 p.m. Email twobirds.mn@gmail.com to reserve a spot.
When: January 3-31.
Where: b. resale, 5456 Nicollet Avenue S, Minneapolis, 612-824-1292, www.b-resaleshop.com, twobirdsboutique.blogspot.com

Ongoing: Bionic Unicorn Blowout Jewelry Sale
What: Local jewelry line Bionic Unicorn is at the bottom of a jewelry avalanche, so to make room for my spring collections, designer Kristin Berwald is having her biggest sale ever. Some items have been marked down up to 50 percent, and more items will be added daily. Visit the designer's Etsy shop to see the goodies.
When: Ongoing.
Where: www.etsy.com/shop/bionicunicorn

Ongoing: Walker Shop After-Holidays Sale
What: The Walker Art Center's excellently-curated Walker Shop kicked off its after-holidays sale in the shop and online this week. Items range from the sleek, modern Alessi Disco Volante Tray to a decorative cardboard skull, marked 50 percent off or more. While you're at it, be sure to check out the in-gallery and online shop for the "Graphic Design: Now in Production" exhibition, ending January 22 with the closing of the show.
When: Ongoing.
Where: Walker Shop at Walker Art Center, 1750 Hennepin Avenue
Minneapolis, 612-375-7633, shop.walkerart.org

Ongoing: FinnStyle Winter Sale
What: Get as much as 50 percent off Marimekko, iittala, and other top Finnish brands during the New Year Sale at FinnStyle. The sale includes clothing, bedding, fabric, and jewelry, plus there are deals in store you won't find online.
When: While supplies last.
Where: FinnStyle, 160 Glenwood Avenue, Minneapolis, 612-333-2127, www.finnstyle.com

Ending Sunday: Askov Finlayson's Winter Sale
What: Men’s shop Askov Finlayson is offering 40 percent on items from Barbour, Norse Products, and Warriors of Radness, and 25 percent off everything else.
When: December 27-January 8.
Where: Askov Finlayson, 200 N. 1st St., Minneapolis, 612-206-3925, www.askovfinlayson.com

Ongoing: Stephanie's Stock-up Sale
What: The more you buy, the more you’ll save during Stephanie’s stock-up sale: buy one item and receive 20 percent off, buy two for 30 percent off, and buy three or more items for 40 percent off on names like Nicole Miller, Tibi, Autumn Cashmere, Citizens of Humanity, David Meister, James Jeans, and Susana Monaco. Shop early for the best savings.
When: Through January 31.
Where: Stephanie's, 758 Cleveland Av. S., St. Paul, 651-690-3802, www.stephaniesshop.com

Ongoing: Cliché’s Color Dot Sale
What: Cliché’s color dot sale includes 10 to 50 percent off select fall and winter inventory. They have also marked down select winter wool coats 30% off.
When: Ongoing.
Where: Cliché, 2403 Lyndale Av. S., Minneapolis, 612-870-0420, www.clichempls.com

Ongoing: Karma's Winter Sale
What: Karma is adding to an already significant on-going sale following Christmas. The clearance event will include up to half of the store and will feature 50-80 percent discounts on clothing and accessories.
When: Ongoing.
Where: Karma, 867 Grand Ave., St. Paul, 651-291-1997, www.karmashops.com

Ongoing: Arafina's Winter Sale
What: At Arafina, take 50 to 70 percent off all fall and winter merchandise.
When: Ongoing.
Where: Arafina, 3365 Galleria, Edina, 952-925-1565, www.arafina.com

Ongoing: Drama's Winter Sale
What: Drama just marked a big selection of fall and winter merchandise down 30 to 70 percent.
When: Ongoing.
Where: Drama Boutique, 1203 Lagoon Avenue, Minneapolis, 612-338-9423, shopatdrama.com

Ongoing: Bumbershute's Winter Sale
What: High-end boutique Bumbershute is offering 50 percent off all designer merchandise.
When: Ongoing.
Where: Bumbershute, 5014 France Avenue S, Edina, 952-475-2684.

Ongoing: Ladyslipper's Winter Sale
What: Boot season is just getting started. But now you can get 50 percent off all fall and winter boots—and shoes—at Ladyslipper.
When: Ongoing.
Where: Ladyslipper, 4940 France Ave. S., Edina, 952-224-1900, www.ladyslipperboutique.com

Ongoing: OPM's Winter Sale
What: Receive 50 percent off all fall and winter merchandise for OPM Facebook fans only; click here to "like" the page.
When: Ongoing
Where: OPM, 3700 Grand Way, St. Louis Park, 952-567-7399, www.opmboutique.com

Ongoing: Pumpz & Co. Winter Sale
What: Designer shoe boutique Pumpz & Co. is taking 50 percent off select fall and winter styles by names like Alexander Wang, Frye, Stuart Weitzman, Tory Burch, Tila March, Carlos Falchi and more, plus 70 percent off previous season styles in the sale room.
When: Ongoing
Where: Pumpz & Co., 3335 Galleria, Edina, 952-926-2252, www.pumpzandco.com

Ongoing: Parc Boutique's Winter Sale
What: Parc Boutique’s winter sale features 30 to 75 percent on all fall and winter merchandise.
When: Ongoing.
Where: Parc Boutique, 320 E. Hennepin Av., Minneapolis, 320 E. Hennepin Ave., Minneapolis, 612-353-4966, www.parcboutique.com

Ongoing: Grand Hand Gallery Winter Sale
What: The Grand Hand's annual Winter Sale includes discounts on holiday items. Find handcrafted holiday ornaments, winter wearables and selected jewelry marked down 20 to 70 percent, with more items and discounts to be added throughout the sale. Come early for best selection.
When: December 26-January 22.
Where: 619 Grand Ave., St. Paul, 651-312-1122, www.thegrandhand.com

Ongoing: Bibelot's Winter Sale
What: Get 50 percent off select gifts and décor and 30 to 70 percent off women’s clothing.
When: Ongoing.
Where: Four metro locations, including 1082 Grand Ave., St. Paul, 651-222-0321, www.bibelotshops.com

Ongoing: russell+hazel's Winter Sale
What: At the flagship store for chic paper brand russell+hazel , enjoy 50–60 percent off all Mara Mi holiday items and other select products.
Where: Ongoing.
When: 4388 France Ave., S., Minneapolis, 952-279-1360, russellandhazel.com

Ongoing: Local Motion's Blowout Clearance Sale
What: Local Motion’s blowout clearance sale includes 30 to 50 percent off most fall items. Also kicking off this week is the ongoing happy hour Fridays, with a different item on sale each week from 4 to 6 p.m. plus treats and refreshments.
When: Ongoing.
Where: Local Motion, 2813 Hennepin Ave. S., Minneapolis, 612-871-8436, www.localmotionmpls.com

Ongoing: n'etc Winter Sale
What: Designer boutique n'etc kicks off its winter sale on Black Friday, offering 50 percent off all fall and winter merchandise.
When: Ongoing.
Where: n'etc, 5005 France Avenue S, Edina, 612-922-9321, www.netcmsp.com

Weekend What's What 1/12-1/15

2012-01-12T09:05:00.017-05:00

THURSDAY JANUARY 12TH

This is Not a Place: New Work by Isaac Gale & David Jensen

@ XYandZ Gallery
3258 Minnehaha Ave S
Minneapolis

7 p.m. to 10 p.m. / Free

Head to southside contemporary art gallery, XYandZ, this Thursday for a multi-media phantasm from the minds of artists and filmmakers Isaac Gale and David Jensen. Unless you were living under a rock this past December, odds are you caught wind of the hypnotic, abstract short films created by the duo for Grammy-nominated band, Bon Iver. The gallery exhibit, however, is not simply an ode to the beloved semi-local band, it's an immersive environment complete with its own experimental soundtrack (masterminded by renowned producer Ryan Olson, no less), featuring sculptural installation, unreleased and re-edited footage from the Bon Iver videos, large-scale film stills, and even some wicked lasers. We can't think of a better way to spend a windy, bleak winter night than in the glow of Gale and Jensen's mesmerizing and ethereal vision. Be there.

Click HERE for the Facebook event

This is Not a Place: Work by Isaac Gale & David Jensen from Permanent Art and Design Group on Vimeo.

THURSDAY JANUARY 12TH  

For the Love of…  

@ SooVAC
2638 Lyndale Ave. S
Minneapolis, MN 55408
 
6 p.m. – 9 p.m. / Free

Spectrum ArtWorks – a Minneapolis visual art program that provides studio space and community for artists living with a mental illness – is committed to helping artists produce amazing work while educating the public and breaking down stigmas. To support this vision, SooVAC presents the new exhibit For the Love of… featuring new work by twelve Spectrum artists exploring what inspires the creative impulse. The artists were challenged to reveal their own personal interpretation of what motivates them in life and when making art. The diverse work in a variety of mediums and styles – from geometric abstraction to mixed media installation – is a great introduction to a dozen gifted artists who also just happen to be living with a mental illness. Come support this great program that illustrates the power of art to influence communities and improve lives! 

Click HERE for this art event and more at mplsart.com

FRIDAY JANUARY 13TH 

Drew Peterson / A Moment Stays  

@ Burnet Gallery 

901 Hennepin Ave.  

Minneapolis  

6 – 9 p.m. / Free

Minnesota-bred artist, Drew Peterson, is well known for his intricate, detailed industrial prints; his style is distinctive, intense and instantly recognizable. For the new exhibition A Moment Stays at the Burnet Gallery, Drew pushes his work in new directions with over 20 silkscreen prints, lithographs and mixed-media paper sculptures inspired in part by Ukiyo-e – a Japanese woodblock printing technique. The results are works that maintain the detail and layering of his earlier efforts while moving away from the hard industrial forms, toward something with intriguingly organic and naturalistic character. The prints also incorporate a nuanced understanding of color and an assured sense of composition. This compelling collection of work from an artist who is emerging as a national talent is not to be missed!

Click HERE for this art event and more at mplsart.com

FRIDAY JANUARY 13TH

Friends Like These Reunion Show

@ Triple Rock
629 Cedar Ave S
Minneapolis

9 p.m. / 18+ / $8

Before founding the popular harmony pop band, Communist Daughter, local musicians Johnny Solomon and Adam Switlick rocked together on another project. Their band, Friends Like These, busted out catchy power-packed rock jams with songwriting skills and melody-perfection akin to Communist Daughter. During their glory days (early to mid 2000s), Friends Like These could be caught touring alongside acts like Ike Reilly and the Brian Jonestown Massacre, but before they reached national success, the band fell apart and members went their separate ways. Tonight, former fans of the band the Strib called the “great shoulda been band” rejoice as the group joins for a five year-awaited reunion show. Plus, tonight's show doubles as a CD release of a remastered collection of the best songs and unreleased tracks from Friends Like These's short catalog of tunes. It's a raucous show that would make 2004 proud.

Click HERE for the Triple Rock site

FRIDAY JANUARY 13TH 

Reviler: Two-Year Anniversary Party   

@ Turf Club
1601 University Ave.

St. Paul  

9 p.m. / +21 / $5

It seems like only yesterday we were welcoming the birth of local music website Reviler, and now it’s entering the terrible twos – mon Dieu! Not content to toddle around throwing tantrums, the music lovers at Reviler are throwing a party to celebrate and also get the word out on some of their fave local acts that deserve a higher profile. Psychedelic electro-krautmeisters Food Pyramid headline the show with support from Andrew Broder of Cloak Ox, fuzz-rockers Is/Is, and Shoegaze quartet Fire in the Northern Firs. Trust us, if the music connoisseurs over at Reviler think enough of these bands to showcase them you’re likely to be picking your jaw off the floor after the show. Come wish the Reviler gang a happy birthday – or anniversary or whateves – with a night of critic-approved local music.

Click HERE for the Turf Club site

FRIDAY JANUARY 13TH (THROUGH SATURDAY)

GlebFest 2012: There May Be Two

@ Club Med
Minneapolis

8 p.m. – 2ish nightly / $8 per night

We know it's only January, but we're going to go out on a limb and call this weekend's GlebFest the year's best eclectic agglomeration of insurgent TC underground bands massed in one place. Oh yeah, it's that epic. Gleb-chella – if you will – features alarmingly disorienting live sets from Seated Heat, Leisure Birds, Kontrasekt, The Liz, Safewords, Crimes, Food Pyramid, the Miami Dolphins and tons more! Witness all the best Gleb shows from last year, in one hearty weekend.

Click HERE for the Facebook event

FRIDAY JANUARY 13TH

BOMP and EXTRA LARGE

@ First Ave
701 First Avenue

Minneapolis

10 p.m. /18+/ $5 w/RSVP or $10 at door

Get down and spooky with the DJs this Friday the 13th as they cast a spell on the First Ave. Join the Moongoons, Jimmy Two Times, Plain Ole Bill and Wzz Wnshp in the Main Room for BOMP, the biggest dance party in town. After capitalizing on the Main Room head up to the Record Room for EXTRA LARGE, where Mike 2600 will be mixin’ up hip hop, funk, disco, electro, dancehall, house and some bass music. As you move to the music, enjoy 2 for 1 well drinks in the Record Room before midnight. 

Click HERE for the First Ave site

SATURDAY JANUARY 14TH 

Art Shanty Projects  

@ Medicine Lake 

9909 South Shore Drive 

Plymouth  

10 a.m. - 5 p.m. / Free

The weird and wonderful love child of installation, performance art, winter festival – and peeps generally cavorting about on a frozen lake – also known as the Art Shanty Project returns this weekend for another round of chilly shenanigans. This four-week exhibition, running every weekend through February 5th, is part sculpture park, part artist residency and part social experiment inspired by MN’s ubiquitous ice fishing houses. More than 20 shanties on offer this year include: The Naughty Shanty, where visitors are invited to peep into holes that reveal tiny, risque scenes inside; The Monsters Under The Bed Shanty, which places visitors under a giant bed to socialize and relax in a friendly monster-positive environment; and the fashion-centric Sashay Shantay, a treasure hunting/photo booth/fashion journey that will provide daily on-ice fashion shows. These and the many other shanties represent some great ideas and ridiculously creative efforts from a slew of local artists, oddballs, and designers. The event is sure to offer loads of silly fun as well as some moments of pure artistic transcendence. What better way to usher in our sudden resurgence of winter than getting bundled up to get your Shanty on!

Click HERE for this art event and more at mplsart.com

More Art Shanty pics via flickr here

SATURDAY JANUARY 14TH

La Femme Noir: Paintings by Nicholas Harper

@ Gallery 360
3011 W 50th St
Minneapolis

7 – 10 p.m. / free

Artist Nicholas Harper could make anyone an saint. With his “elevated approach” to portraiture, Harper's paintings explore the medium of iconography, a Byzantine and Russian-based trade once consanguineous with representing holy and political figures. By gleaning the symbolic aspects and historical meanings of “icon” portraits, pairing them with contemporary elements and eliciting each subject's panache, Harper's images portray the divine and celebrate individual significance. For Harper's exhibit at Gallery 360, La Femme Noir, peep a series of new paintings expounding on the ancient art of iconography, saturated with Harper's signature caliginous style.

Click HERE for this art event and more at mplsart.com

SATURDAY JANUARY 14TH

Still Pacific w/ The Night

@ Hexagon
2600 27th Ave S
Minneapolis

10 p.m. – 2 a.m. / 21+ / Free

This Saturday, hail the synth as you celebrate Still Pacific's 7'' record release. Maybe you remember Still Pacific – the synthpoppers with dual dude and riot grrl-esque vocals – when they opened last year for bands like Red Pens, Pink Mink, and Birthday Suits. Or perhaps you recognize the band for their line-up of local rock veterans including Tim Ritter (Bella Koshka, Astronaut Wife, and Blue Sky Blackout) and husband/wife duo Tracy & Brad Weller (Hicky Party and The Psychedelicates). Whatever the reason to bring you to tonight's no-wave-adoring show, we guarantee a sinister evening featuring live sets by electro darling duo, The Night, indie dark rockabillies, Upstate, and uber special guest deejay Paul Robb of Information Society. Purchase your copy of Still Pacific's new record and a get a tee-shirt plus a free PBR. Heaven is a synth line.

Click HERE for the Facebook event

SATURDAY JANUARY 14TH

Dragmanity: Winter Glitter Carnival

@ Bryant Lake Bowl
810 West Lake Street
Minneapolis

10 p.m. / $10 in advance /$12 day of the show

Calling all drag genres, show lovers, and exotic salsa dancers! Need a little pep in your step or sprinkle of glitz to yo glam? Worry not, it’s Winter Glitter Carnival time at Bryant Lake Bowl this Saturday. The BLB warmly welcomes everyone in from the cold to experience a night of colorful shenanigans inspired by carnival festivities, hosted by the ever-dazzling Esme Rodriguez. Shuck off your winter blues in the most festive metallic party apparel you can find and prepare to be entertained.

Click HERE for the BLB site

SATURDAY JANUARY 14TH

Estate

@ Red Stag Supper Club
509 1st Avenue NE
Minneapolis

10:30 p.m. / Free

Tasty electro-dance-party duo, Estate, is set to rock the Red Stag this Saturday. The intimate NE venue is the perfect place to cozy up and get down to fresh beats and DJ sets from the boys whilst sipping craft cocktails and/or munching on cheese curds. Dress up and come out to experience a night of electropop, ‘80s, flirty-fun, and cotton candy-infused tunes and snazzy visuals, courtesy of cute boys.

Click HERE for the Stag site

SUNDAY JANUARY 15TH

Rogue Citizen Installation & Retro Beer Pre Fixe

@ Haute Dish
119 Washington Ave N
Minneapolis

4 – 10 p.m. / free

This harmonious event combines hot local art with “haute” local food. As if you needed any other reason than the decadent menu to visit Haute Dish, tonight's affair takes it further with the artistic stylings of Rogue Citizen and a tasty beer-focused bill of fare from Chef Landon. Peep as the dudes of Rogue Citizen return to the scene to finish their 8x8 masterpiece mural forever to grace the walls of Haute Dish. While you're watching the epic live painting action, munch on amazing treats incorporating the flavors of beer brand staples Old Style, Schlitz, Lone Star, PBR, and, um, Blast. We're alternately scared and intrigued.

Click HERE for the Facebook event

l'étoile's Guide to Sales and Shopping: January 10-16

2012-01-10T21:28:00.005-05:00

Edited and written by Jahna Peloquin, l'étoile Fashion Editor

Updated weekly with exclusive sales, shopping news, special offers and stylish events at the Twin Cities' hippest shopping destinations, our comprehensive shopping guide is the go-to guide for the local fashion fanatic.

SALES & SHOPPING FOR WEEK OF JANUARY 10-16:

Thursday-Saturday: l'atelier couture Grand Reopening
What: To celebrate bridal boutique l'atelier couture's new Warehouse District location, the shop is hosting a runway show and grand reopening party. On Thursday, attend a runway show by Italy-based bridal gown designer Peter Langner (RVSP required to rsvp@lateliercouturebridal.com). While you're there, check out Nelli's brand-new clutch collection with textile designer Luci Kandler of Calpurnia Peach fame, NELLE & Ogge, in the designer's in-house boutique, plus view trunk shows from Paperista, Coca & Fig, Instant Request, Just Bloomed, Liz Banfield, Crave, Style-Architects, and more. If you can't secure a spot to the opening party, the shop is hosting two days of open houses on Friday and Saturday, where you can meet l'atelier couture owner Amanda Kautt and Italy-based bridal gown designer Peter Langner, plus local handbag designer Laura Nelli and local jewelry designer Penny Larsen.
When: Doors 6:30 p.m., runway show 7 p.m. Thursday, January 12; open house hours 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday, January 13-Saturday, January 14.
Where: l'atelier couture, 219 N 2nd Street, Suite 404, Minneapolis, 219 N 2nd St, #404, Minneapolis, 651-602-9492, www.lateliercouturebridal.com\

Now-Sunday: Sarah M. Holm Etsy Sale
What: From now until this Sunday, local designer Sarah M. Holm is offering 20% off everything in her Etsy store, including the adorable new pinstriped '50s-inspired day dress pictured (also available in red). Just enter "cabinfever12" into the coupon code box to receive the discount.
When: Tuesday, January 10-Sunday, January 15.
Where: www.etsy.com

Beginning Tuesday: martinpatrick3's Winter Clearance
What: Dandy martinpatrick3’s winter clearance kicks off this weekend. Save for a few minor exceptions, expect discounts of 20% throughout the store, and nearly all seasonal clothing and accessories will be marked at 40% off.
When: Tuesday, January 10 through mid-February or while supplies last.
Where: martinpatrick3, 121 N 1st Street, Minneapolis, 612-746-5329, www.martinpatrick3.com

Beginning Friday: Grethen House 70% Off Sale
What: Grethen House kicks off its semi-annual 70% off sale this weekend, slashing prices on fall and winter goods from designers like Comme des Garçons, Maison Martin Margiela, Yigal Azrouël, Gunex, Rozae Nichols, Theyskens' Theory (pictured) and Rick Owens. Serious shoppers can pre-shop on Thursday from 2 to 6 p.m.
When: Friday, January 13.
Where: Grethen House, 4930 France Avenue, Edina, 952-926-8725, www.grethenhouse.com

Beginning Saturday: Sashay Shantay at Art Shanty Projects
What: Local fashion makes its first foray into the Art Shanties on Medicine Lake with the Sashay Shantay. Shanty-goers can don hardy knits and coats by local designers Danielle Everine (of Project Runway fame), Rachel Blomgren, Lela Horst Baumann, Carly Shoen and others in a stylized photo booth. Plus, the handmade creations will be showcased in an on-ice runway daily.
When: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily, Saturday, January 14-Sunday, February 5.
Where: Medicine Lake, 17th Avenue N & Highway 169, Plymouth, www.artshantyprojects.org

Saturday: ROX Jewelry Sale
What: The Northeast Minneapolis Arts District is always busy every second Saturday of the month when studios open to the public at the California Building. Robyne Robinson's ROX Studio joins in on the festivities with new one-of-a-kind jewelry creations of semi-precious stones and metals, plus a $100 purchase earns you a free pair of earrings.
When: 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday, January 14.
Where: ROX Studio at California Building, 2205 California Street NE Studio 403, Minneapolis, www.roxmpls.com

Sunday: SHIP&SHAPE launches Valentine's Day collection
What: When Minneapolis-based online retailer SHIP&SHAPE launched last fall, we were ecstatic over the charmingly edited collection of clothing, jewelry, stationery, knits and artwork by local luminaries such as Annie Larson, Michael Gaughan, Rachel Blomgren, Annika Kaplan, and Crystal Quinn. With their second collection, launching this weekend exclusively at www.shipandshape.com, the collective offers an ode to love with a Valentine's-themed collection.
When: Launching Sunday, January 15.
Where: www.shipandshape.com

Beginning Monday: My Sister's Closet Annual Winter Sale
What: Next Monday, beloved vintage and designer consignment shop My Sister's Closet is kicking off their infamous semi-annual 50% sale. That's right - that means a whopping half-off all items in both their Grand Avenue and Uptown locations. We've scored gorgeous vintage dresses during this sale for $20 a pop, not to mention never-worn, 1980s Donna Karan ankle wrap heels for $15, so this sale (running for two weeks) is nothing to scoff at. Get there early for the best finds.
When: Monday, January 16-Sunday 29.
Where: 2741 Hennepin Avenue, Minneapolis. 612-886-2891; 1136 Grand Avenue, St. Paul, 612-222-2819, www.mysistersclosetmn.com

Ongoing: Covered's Winter Sale
What: Head over to Uptown denim haven Covered to snag discounts of 30 to 90% off all fall and winter merchandise. New items will be added daily, and if you mention seeing this blog, you can take an additional 10% off new arrivals.
When: Now through January 31.
Where: Covered, 1201 Lagoon Avenue, Minneapolis, 612-825-1610, www.shopcovered.com

Beginning Sunday: Bloomingdale's Closing Sale
What: The Mall of America announced today that longtime anchor store Bloomingdale's would be closing in March, to be replaced by four yet-to-be-named "major international fashion-forward retail stores." And with the closing comes a big, blowout sale. The sale will begin this Sunday, running through the March closing.
When: Beginning Sunday, through March.
Where: Bloomingdale's, Mall of America, Bloomington, 952-883-2500, www.bloomingdales.com

Ongoing: Two Birds Vintage Pops up at b. resale
What: Local vintage vendor Two Birds Vintage kicks off a month-long pop-up sale at b. resale this week. The collection tailored to the resale shop's contemporary-meets-retro vibe features a selection of affordable vintage dresses, skirts, tops, and accessories. Need help finding just the right outfit? The vendor will also be hosting a personal shopping and styling event on January 28 from 3 to 5 p.m. Email twobirds.mn@gmail.com to reserve a spot.
When: January 3-31.
Where: b. resale, 5456 Nicollet Avenue S, Minneapolis, 612-824-1292, www.b-resaleshop.com, twobirdsboutique.blogspot.com

Ongoing: Bionic Unicorn Blowout Jewelry Sale
What: Local jewelry line Bionic Unicorn is at the bottom of a jewelry avalanche, so to make room for my spring collections, designer Kristin Berwald is having her biggest sale ever. Some items have been marked down up to 50 percent, and more items will be added daily. Visit the designer's Etsy shop to see the goodies.
When: Ongoing.
Where: www.etsy.com/shop/bionicunicorn

Ongoing: Walker Shop After-Holidays Sale
What: The Walker Art Center's excellently-curated Walker Shop kicked off its after-holidays sale in the shop and online this week. Items range from the sleek, modern Alessi Disco Volante Tray to a decorative cardboard skull, marked 50 percent off or more. While you're at it, be sure to check out the in-gallery and online shop for the "Graphic Design: Now in Production" exhibition, ending January 22 with the closing of the show.
When: Ongoing.
Where: Walker Shop at Walker Art Center, 1750 Hennepin Avenue
Minneapolis, 612-375-7633, shop.walkerart.org

Ongoing: FinnStyle Winter Sale
What: Get as much as 50 percent off Marimekko, iittala, and other top Finnish brands during the New Year Sale at FinnStyle. The sale includes clothing, bedding, fabric, and jewelry, plus there are deals in store you won't find online.
When: While supplies last.
Where: FinnStyle, 160 Glenwood Avenue, Minneapolis, 612-333-2127, www.finnstyle.com

Ending Sunday: Askov Finlayson's Winter Sale
What: Men’s shop Askov Finlayson is offering 40 percent on items from Barbour, Norse Products, and Warriors of Radness, and 25 percent off everything else.
When: December 27-January 8.
Where: Askov Finlayson, 200 N. 1st St., Minneapolis, 612-206-3925, www.askovfinlayson.com

Ongoing: Stephanie's Stock-up Sale
What: The more you buy, the more you’ll save during Stephanie’s stock-up sale: buy one item and receive 20 percent off, buy two for 30 percent off, and buy three or more items for 40 percent off on names like Nicole Miller, Tibi, Autumn Cashmere, Citizens of Humanity, David Meister, James Jeans, and Susana Monaco. Shop early for the best savings.
When: Through January 31.
Where: Stephanie's, 758 Cleveland Av. S., St. Paul, 651-690-3802, www.stephaniesshop.com

Ongoing: Cliché’s Color Dot Sale
What: Cliché’s color dot sale includes 10 to 50 percent off select fall and winter inventory. They have also marked down select winter wool coats 30% off.
When: Ongoing.
Where: Cliché, 2403 Lyndale Av. S., Minneapolis, 612-870-0420, www.clichempls.com

Ongoing: Karma's Winter Sale
What: Karma is adding to an already significant on-going sale following Christmas. The clearance event will include up to half of the store and will feature 50-80 percent discounts on clothing and accessories.
When: Ongoing.
Where: Karma, 867 Grand Ave., St. Paul, 651-291-1997, www.karmashops.com

Ongoing: Arafina's Winter Sale
What: At Arafina, take 50 to 70 percent off all fall and winter merchandise.
When: Ongoing.
Where: Arafina, 3365 Galleria, Edina, 952-925-1565, www.arafina.com

Ongoing: Drama's Winter Sale
What: Drama just marked a big selection of fall and winter merchandise down 30 to 70 percent.
When: Ongoing.
Where: Drama Boutique, 1203 Lagoon Avenue, Minneapolis, 612-338-9423, shopatdrama.com

Ongoing: Bumbershute's Winter Sale
What: High-end boutique Bumbershute is offering 50 percent off all designer merchandise.
When: Ongoing.
Where: Bumbershute, 5014 France Avenue S, Edina, 952-475-2684.

Ongoing: Ladyslipper's Winter Sale
What: Boot season is just getting started. But now you can get 50 percent off all fall and winter boots—and shoes—at Ladyslipper.
When: Ongoing.
Where: Ladyslipper, 4940 France Ave. S., Edina, 952-224-1900, www.ladyslipperboutique.com

Ongoing: OPM's Winter Sale
What: Receive 50 percent off all fall and winter merchandise for OPM Facebook fans only; click here to "like" the page.
When: Ongoing
Where: OPM, 3700 Grand Way, St. Louis Park, 952-567-7399, www.opmboutique.com

Ongoing: Pumpz & Co. Winter Sale
What: Designer shoe boutique Pumpz & Co. is taking 50 percent off select fall and winter styles by names like Alexander Wang, Frye, Stuart Weitzman, Tory Burch, Tila March, Carlos Falchi and more, plus 70 percent off previous season styles in the sale room.
When: Ongoing
Where: Pumpz & Co., 3335 Galleria, Edina, 952-926-2252, www.pumpzandco.com

Ongoing: Parc Boutique's Winter Sale
What: Parc Boutique’s winter sale features 30 to 75 percent on all fall and winter merchandise.
When: Ongoing.
Where: Parc Boutique, 320 E. Hennepin Av., Minneapolis, 320 E. Hennepin Ave., Minneapolis, 612-353-4966, www.parcboutique.com

Ongoing: Grand Hand Gallery Winter Sale
What: The Grand Hand's annual Winter Sale includes discounts on holiday items. Find handcrafted holiday ornaments, winter wearables and selected jewelry marked down 20 to 70 percent, with more items and discounts to be added throughout the sale. Come early for best selection.
When: December 26-January 22.
Where: 619 Grand Ave., St. Paul, 651-312-1122, www.thegrandhand.com

Ongoing: Bibelot's Winter Sale
What: Get 50 percent off select gifts and décor and 30 to 70 percent off women’s clothing.
When: Ongoing.
Where: Four metro locations, including 1082 Grand Ave., St. Paul, 651-222-0321, www.bibelotshops.com

Ongoing: russell+hazel's Winter Sale
What: At the flagship store for chic paper brand russell+hazel , enjoy 50–60 percent off all Mara Mi holiday items and other select products.
Where: Ongoing.
When: 4388 France Ave., S., Minneapolis, 952-279-1360, russellandhazel.com

Ongoing: Local Motion's Blowout Clearance Sale
What: Local Motion’s blowout clearance sale includes 30 to 50 percent off most fall items. Also kicking off this week is the ongoing happy hour Fridays, with a different item on sale each week from 4 to 6 p.m. plus treats and refreshments.
When: Ongoing.
Where: Local Motion, 2813 Hennepin Ave. S., Minneapolis, 612-871-8436, www.localmotionmpls.com

Ongoing: n'etc Winter Sale
What: Designer boutique n'etc kicks off its winter sale on Black Friday, offering 50 percent off all fall and winter merchandise.
When: Ongoing.
Where: n'etc, 5005 France Avenue S, Edina, 612-922-9321, www.netcmsp.com

Ongoing: BANGbang Salon's Winter Sale
What: BANGbang Salon’s winter sale includes 20 percent off Illume candles and diffusers and 30 percent off select jewelry and handbags.
When: December 28-January 14
Where: BANGbang Salon, 11 W. 38th St., Minneapolis, 612-823-2264, www.bangbangmpls.com

Weekend What's What 1/5-1/8

2012-01-05T10:26:00.016-05:00

THURSDAY JANUARY 5TH

Stick Em Up!

@ David Paul Seymour Art + Design Gallery
Northrup King Building
1500 Jackson St. NE
Suite 429
Minneapolis

5 p.m. – 9 p.m. / Free

You know it’s time to replace the NKOTB sticker you’ve had plastered to your trapper keeper since junior high…and there’s no time like the present! There’s a new crop of high-design decals on the horizon that elevate the humble sticker to an art. Gallery owner and contributing artist David Paul Seymour is on the cusp of the emerging trend with the Twin Cities' first-ever all-sticker art showcase. This exciting show presents the work of a dozen local, national and international graphic designers, stencil-painters and sketch artists using thousands of one-of-a-kind stickers. Gallery patrons can stuff as many stickers as they can fit into a special collector’s sack for a measly $10 - how’s that for affordable art! In addition to the vast selection of decals, the artists will display customized three-dimensional “street” objects - such as payphones and street signs – to be auctioned off to the highest bidder. Don’t be stuck up, get a peek at the emerging sticker art movement!

Click HERE for this art event and more at mplsart.com

THURSDAY JANUARY 5TH

1st Thursdays at the Chowgirls Parlor feat. Josie Lewis

@ Chowgirls Parlor
1224 Second St NE
Minneapolis

7 – 11 p.m. / Free

The perfect blend of art and eats, join catering hot shots, Chowgirls, every first Thursday for an insider's look at a local artist plus a chef's take on food and drinks. Tonight, enjoy a menu featuring flat bread pizza with local cheeses, antipasto platter and rumaki – bacon-wrapped water chestnuts and dates – beer, wine, and signature cocktails the Hot Rod Toddy (Jim Beam Red Stag, honey, hot tea and orange wedge) & the Woodstock (shaken Death's Door gin, maple syrup and lemon). The cherry on the cake? A new art exhibit from artist Josie Lewis, whose kaleidoscopic, layered paper/resin creations are quite a sight to behold. Via la First Thursdays!

Bonus: Check the NEMAA website for other open studios in the neighborhood on 1st Thursday from 5-9, but swing by Chowgirls Parlor (open until 11pm) for an arty nightcap.

Click HERE for the Chowgirls Parlor Facebook event

THURSDAY JANUARY 5TH

The Rope / Safewords / Still Pacific / Blood and Sun

@ Varsity Theater
1308 4th St SE
Minneapolis

7 p.m. – 1 a.m. / 18+ / $8

Sometimes we dream about The Rope making a music video. We imagine something along the lines of Sisters of Mercy's This Corrosion; anarchic underground city dwellers, ubiquitous rain and metal, curled lips and lot and lots of leather. Well tonight, wonder no more as the boys from local dark-loving band, The Rope, shoot footage for their first music video. Peep live sets from local death rock purveyors, Safewords; indie rockers, Still Pacific; and dark ambient folk industrials, Blood and Sun, and be prepared to be filmed – this means don some epic goth duds. Who knows what lies beyond the camera's dark gaze?

Click HERE for the Varsity site

THURSDAY JANUARY 5TH

Cum on Feel the Noize: Appetite for Destruction

@ Club Jager
923 Washington Ave N
Minneapolis

10 p.m. – 2 a.m. / 21+ / no cover

Oh, Axl! If you're anything like us, the bandanas, Cop shades, sleeveless tees, pouty lips, ripped pecs and dreamy long locks belonging the Guns N' Roses' badass frontman left you in your bedroom for hours upon hours...we mean due to listening to albums, of course. For this month's edition of Cum on Feel the Noize, “Appetite For Destruction,” feel free to openly embrace your love for the Rose as you jam out to your fave GN'R's tracks spun by CFN resident DJ Danielle Morris and guest rocker Christy Hunt (Pink Mink, Ouija Radio, Von Bondies). Belt out lyrics and bust classic air guitar moves for paradigm GN'R hits like “Night Train,” “Paradise City” and “Welcome to the Jungle” and grab a sexy bar stranger to slow dance to that cry-me-a-river love ballad, “Sweet Child O' Mine.” Sip down delish drinks from l'etoile + Jager star baby, Robyn Lewis, and raise a glass to the rockstar sauve enough to make his moniker an anagram of a sex act term...you figure it out. From butt rock to metal, hair bands to scare bands, there's only one dance night where the ladies of the decks have the balls to blast it all, sans any ounce of shame. CFN, we tip our teased hair to you.

Click HERE for the Facebook event

FRIDAY JANUARY 6TH

Resident Artists VIII: In Process

@ Altered Esthetics
1224 Quincy St. NE
Minneapolis

7 p.m. - 10 p.m. / Free

The always intriguing artistic process is the subject of this fascinating exhibit from Altered Esthetics. Process work by the gallery’s resident artists shows how the initial seeds of an idea is nurtured to fully formed works. Personal sketchbooks, in progress photos, design notes, and storyboards give a glimpse into the creative mind and also reveal how much painstaking work goes into creating a ‘work of art’. It’s always inspiring to get a peek at the process of a great artist, so don’t miss your chance to delve into the artistic mind.

Click HERE for this art event and more at mplsart.com

FRIDAY JANUARY 6TH

more Little Tragedies

@ Air Sweet Air Gallery
262 E 4th St Suite 203
St. Paul

6 – 9 p.m. / Free

In his latest series, local artist Alex Kuno takes us even further into the apocalyptic chimera with more Little Tragedies, an extended glimpse into a satirical fairy tale. Veering from innocence and heartache while depicting the tragedy-filled existence in a surreal land, Kuno's new work whisks the viewer from the sweet to the frightening in mere strokes. 100 guests at this event will receive a special signed edition created just for more Little Tragedies. No joke, you can see great art and get to take some home for free! We're hoping we'll be able to get the Bee Gee's “Tragedy” out of our heads in time for the show.

Bonus: Check out Lowertown's First Fridays while your at it! Open studios galore.

Click HERE for the Facebook event

FRIDAY JANUARY 6TH

Nightosaur w/ Witchden

@ Turf Club
1601 University Ave
St. Paul

9 p.m. / 21+ / $7

Nightosaur fans might find this evening's show bittersweet as tonight is co-lead guitarist and uber-shredder, Max Clark last rock out with the band. But don't shed tears just yet. Besides this Turf Club show hurrah, Nightosaur-ians can expect the release of a new Nightosaur album later this year, plus live sets tonight from doom rockers, Witchden, Cadette (feat. Ex-members of Baby Guts and The Yuckies), rock metal from dub trio, Hardcore Crayons and metal jams spun by DJ Greg. Bid your farewells to Max while you do some epic rockin' out.

Click HERE for the Turf site

FRIDAY JANUARY 6TH

Buffalo Moon Homecoming Show

@ Entry
701 1st Ave N
Minneapolis

8 p.m. / 18+ / $5

Bred on the Latina bones of lead singer, Karen Freire, Buffalo Moon blend the best of tradish samba, bossa nova, and Brazilian pop with Midwestern vibes. Incorporating a little Air, beach baby garage and jazzy R&B, the five-set emerges as an eclectic local project sparkling tropic flare into oh-so-cold winter months. Tonight's Radio K sponsored event features live sets from Tickle Tortue (aka Elliott Kozel of Sleeping in the Aviary), local buzzworthies Night Moves, and internet-famous electronic duo, Elite Gymnastics.

Click HERE for this First Ave site

FRIDAY JANUARY 6TH

Get Cryphy: Time 4 Sum Aksion

@ First Avenue Record Room
701 First Avenue
Minneapolis

10 p.m. / 21+/ $3 Adv. $5 Door

Kick off your 2012 weekend with the rap rowdy (and l'etoile Best Dancy Party winners) Get Cryphy crew this Friday in the Record Room at First Ave. If you’re not familiar, prepare to experience the fun, face-paced, bumpin’ beats of local DJ darlings Jimmy 2 Times, Plain Ole Bill, Last Word and Fundo, as they break it down in the venue’s intimate hip-hop haven. Arrive early to enjoy drink specials and partake in giveaways from Phenom & Familia.

Click HERE for the Facebook event

SATURDAY JANUARY 7TH

Seawhores / Fur Pillows / BloodNStuff / Silicone Cells

@ 7th St Entry
701 1st Ave N
Minneapolis

8pm / 18+ / $8

If you enjoy things like fun, music, and adult beverages, head down to the Entry in support of some new and old faves. Silicone Cells kick things off rocking the 70's vibe, Queens of the Stone Age-esque two-piece Blood N' Stuff throw down the rock jams, followed by new Har
Mar side project Fur Pillows, and the Seawhores round things off by shattering speakers and eardrums. Grab a few drinks, get cozy, and settle in for a diverse roster of players.

Click HERE for the Facebook event

SATURDAY JANUARY 7TH

Heavy Deeds / Gopsel Gossip / Flavor Crystals

@ Kitty Cat Klub
313 14th Ave SE
Minneapolis

9 p.m. / 21+ / $5

Tonight's triple dose music extravaganza features 3 bands you don't wanna miss. Feast your eyes and ears on audio gems from locals Heavy Deeds – feat. Vampire Hands members – a bit of mesmerizing noise from Gospel Gossip, minimalist psychedelic from Flavor Crystals and garage surf ambient rock from Crimes.

Click HERE for the Kitty Cat site

SATURDAY JANUARY 7TH

Ugly Ass Sweater Party

@ First Avenue Record Room
701 First Ave N
Minneapolis

9 p.m. / 18+/ $5 w/ sweater $6 w/out

As the snow finally begins to fall and the cold air casts a long awaited winter’s chill over the Twin Cities, it’s no coincidence that DJs Nate Lawrence and J Matthews of HotDish and their lovely event crew are comin’ in hot, and fully adorned in their favorite ugly sweaters. This Friday, join the posse at First Ave. as they collaborate with DJs EvL E, Matt Moxx, Mustang Sally, and Jizz the Goodz. Prepare to dress ugly, dance dirty, and rock the Record Room.

Click HERE for the Facebook event

SATURDAY JANUARY 7TH

Birthday Suits, Blind Shake, Stnnng and Gay Witch Abortion

@ Turf Club
1601 University Ave.
St. Paul

9 p.m. - 12 a.m. / +21 / $7

Are you ready to rock! It will not be an evening of polite milquetoast music when powerful local punk duo Birthday Suits host their 6th annual blowout. Birthday Suits’ crazy live presence and onstage antics are legendary; they never fail to put on a seriously loud and kinetic show. Like minded local garage punk trio Blind Shake, post punk 5 piece Stnnng and the extreme noise of Gay Witch Abortion round out a blistering lineup of punk progeny. Your ears are sure to be ringing and you may have a few bruises at the end of the night, but you know…in a good way!

Click HERE for the Turf Club site

SUNDAY JANUARY 8TH

MARROW: One Night of Music & Art

@ Republic
221 Cedar Ave. S
Minneapolis

8 p.m. - 1 a.m. / $5

Get ready for the sultry musical stylings of local soul songstress Chastity Brown paired with the evocative artistic offerings of painter Natalie Gallagher as Republic hosts a multi-faceted one-night-only showcase for these lovely ladies. The evening promises a non-traditional music set from Ms. Brown and an exhibit of @freckeledandfab’s recent paintings before she heads out of the country for a few months. You can grab a bite to eat from Republic’s pub menu or sip a beer from their extensive list while your eyes and ears are tickled. For a taste of art that cuts close to the bone get yourself a heaping helping of MARROW.

Click HERE for the Facebook event

Editor in Chief: Kate Iverson // Contributors: Juleana Enright, Kate Iverson, Robyn Lewis, Jahna Peloquin, Stefani Arden, Anthony Enright

l'étoile's Guide to Sales and Shopping

2012-01-04T19:05:00.003-05:00

Edited and written by Jahna Peloquin, l'étoile Fashion Editor

Updated weekly with exclusive sales, shopping news, special offers and stylish events at the Twin Cities' hippest shopping destinations, our comprehensive shopping guide is the go-to guide for the local fashion fanatic.

SALES & SHOPPING FOR WEEK OF JANUARY 3-9:

Beginning Sunday: Bloomingdale's Closing Sale
What: The Mall of America announced today that longtime anchor store Bloomingdale's would be closing in March, to be replaced by four yet-to-be-named "major international fashion-forward retail stores." And with the closing comes a big, blowout sale. The sale will begin this Sunday, running through the March closing.
When: Beginning Sunday, through March.
Where: Bloomingdale's, Mall of America, Bloomington, 952-883-2500, www.bloomingdales.com

Ongoing: Two Birds Vintage Pops up at b. resale
What: Local vintage vendor Two Birds Vintage kicks off a month-long pop-up sale at b. resale this week. The collection tailored to the resale shop's contemporary-meets-retro vibe features a selection of affordable vintage dresses, skirts, tops, and accessories. Need help finding just the right outfit? The vendor will also be hosting a personal shopping and styling event on January 28 from 3 to 5 p.m. Email twobirds.mn@gmail.com to reserve a spot.
When: January 3-31.
Where: b. resale, 5456 Nicollet Avenue S, Minneapolis, 612-824-1292, www.b-resaleshop.com, twobirdsboutique.blogspot.com

Danielle Everine & Freedom From Doubt launch at One-Offs Yippee!
What: Local fashion e-retailer One-Offs Yippee! offers a legion of locally-designed goods - all of which are one of a kind. The latest designers to join the ranks are Project Runway alum Danielle Everine and local neckwear line Freedom From Doubt. The handiwork of Jared Zachary, the line of statement-making, one-of-a-kind bowties are $60 a pop and available now at one-offsyippee.com. Meanwhile, Everine is offering seven one-of-a-kind pieces, including some brand-new pieces (pictured) as well as some gorgeous outerwear from her memorable Fall 2010 "Pale Rider" collection. Prices range from $88 for a blouse to $290 for the fur-sleeved coat. View the full collection here.
Where: one-offsyippee.com

Friday: Christopher Straub Sample Sale
What: Project Runway season six darling Christopher Straub is unloading his samples and one-of-a-kind accessories on this online shop this weekend. Prices start at $5, and include Straub's ruffled purses, python-print bags, chic clutches, and various wallets. Pre-shop now.
When: Beginning noon CST on Friday, January 6.
Where: christopherstraub.com

New in stores: Mother Denim & Jil Sander Navy at Grethen House
What: Mother Denim, a new luxury line with classic appeal, has just launched at 50th and France designer boutique Grethen House. The high waisted jeans (pictured) come in vivid colors and denim that's cashmere-soft. Ranging in price from $170 to $220, it's not exactly a drop in the bucket, but for someone looking for a fresh take on denim, Mother Denim could be it. While you're there, be sure to check out another new line to Grethen House, Jil Sander Navy.
When: Now
Where: Grethen House, 4930 France Avenue S, Edina, 952-926-8725, grethenhouse.tumblr.com

Ongoing: Bionic Unicorn Blowout Jewelry Sale
What: Local jewelry line Bionic Unicorn is at the bottom of a jewelry avalanche, so to make room for my spring collections, designer Kristin Berwald is having her biggest sale ever. Some items have been marked down up to 50 percent, and more items will be added daily. Visit the designer's Etsy shop to see the goodies.
When: Ongoing.
Where: www.etsy.com/shop/bionicunicorn

Ongoing: Walker Shop After-Holidays Sale
What: The Walker Art Center's excellently-curated Walker Shop kicked off its after-holidays sale in the shop and online this week. Items range from the sleek, modern Alessi Disco Volante Tray to a decorative cardboard skull, marked 50 percent off or more. While you're at it, be sure to check out the in-gallery and online shop for the "Graphic Design: Now in Production" exhibition, ending January 22 with the closing of the show.
When: Ongoing.
Where: Walker Shop at Walker Art Center, 1750 Hennepin Avenue
Minneapolis, 612-375-7633, shop.walkerart.org

Friday & Saturday: Roe Wolfe After Christmas Sale
What: For two days only, Mendota Heights designer boutique (and l'étoile's "Best New Women's Boutique" for 2011) Roe Wolfe is offering some post-holiday deals. Take 30 percent off shoes by Matiko (pictured) and Gee'WaWa, 30 percent off clothing by Love Sam, and 30 percent off all BECCA Cosmetics (honored all month with booked appointment).
When: 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Friday, January 6 & Saturday, December 7.
Where: Roe Wolfe, 750 Main Street Ste 107, Mendota Heights, 651-330-4434, www.roewolfe.com

Saturday: Mighty Swell Vintage's Post-Holiday Sale
What: Mighty Swell Vintage pop-up shop’s post-holiday sale includes items for men and women discounted from $1 to $10 a piece, plus 30 percent off all regularly-priced merchandise. It will be their last sale featuring men's and womenswear until spring, but guys, mark your calendars - they'll be doing a men's-only sale on January 27 and 28.
When: 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Saturday, January 7.
Where: Mighty Swell, 3109 E 42nd Street, Minneapolis, www.mightyswell.com

Ongoing: FinnStyle Winter Sale
What: Get as much as 50 percent off Marimekko, iittala, and other top Finnish brands during the New Year Sale at FinnStyle. The sale includes clothing, bedding, fabric, and jewelry, plus there are deals in store you won't find online.
When: While supplies last.
Where: FinnStyle, 160 Glenwood Avenue, Minneapolis, 612-333-2127, www.finnstyle.com

Ending Sunday: Flirt's Semi-annual Sale
What: Lingerie boutique Flirt is extending its semi-annual sale this year. That sale includes 40 percent off select fall and winter collections from brands including Mimi Holliday, Blush, Elle, b.tempt'd, Else, and Felina.
When: December 26-January 8.
Where: Flirt Boutique, 177 Snelling Av. N., St. Paul, 651-698-3692, www.flirt-boutique.com

Ending Sunday: Askov Finlayson's Winter Sale
What: Men’s shop Askov Finlayson is offering 40 percent on items from Barbour, Norse Products, and Warriors of Radness, and 25 percent off everything else.
When: December 27-January 8.
Where: Askov Finlayson, 200 N. 1st St., Minneapolis, 612-206-3925, www.askovfinlayson.com

Ongoing: Stephanie's Stock-up Sale
What: The more you buy, the more you’ll save during Stephanie’s stock-up sale: buy one item and receive 20 percent off, buy two for 30 percent off, and buy three or more items for 40 percent off on names like Nicole Miller, Tibi, Autumn Cashmere, Citizens of Humanity, David Meister, James Jeans, and Susana Monaco. Shop early for the best savings.
When: Through January 31.
Where: Stephanie's, 758 Cleveland Av. S., St. Paul, 651-690-3802, www.stephaniesshop.com

Ongoing: Cliché’s Color Dot Sale
What: Cliché’s color dot sale includes 10 to 50 percent off select fall and winter inventory. They have also marked down select winter wool coats 30% off.
When: Ongoing.
Where: Cliché, 2403 Lyndale Av. S., Minneapolis, 612-870-0420, www.clichempls.com

Ongoing: The Room & Board Annual Clearance Event
What: The Room & Board Annual Clearance Event happens just once a year. Get as much as 50 percent off furniture, accessories, and discontinued floor samples. Additional clearance items can be found at roomandboard.com.
When: Ongoing
Where: Room & Board, 7010 France Ave. S., Edina, 952-927-8835, roomandboard.com

Ongoing: Karma's Winter Sale
What: Karma is adding to an already significant on-going sale following Christmas. The clearance event will include up to half of the store and will feature 50-80 percent discounts on clothing and accessories.
When: Ongoing.
Where: Karma, 867 Grand Ave., St. Paul, 651-291-1997, www.karmashops.com

Ongoing: Arafina's Winter Sale
What: At Arafina, take 30 to 50 percent off all fall and winter merchandise.
When: Ongoing.
Where: Arafina, 3365 Galleria, Edina, 952-925-1565, www.arafina.com

Ongoing: Drama's Winter Sale
What: Drama just marked a big selection of fall and winter merchandise down 30 to 70 percent.
When: Ongoing.
Where: Drama Boutique, 1203 Lagoon Ave., Minneapolis, 612-338-9423, shopatdrama.com

Ongoing: Bumbershute's Winter Sale
What: High-end boutique Bumbershute is offering 50 percent off all designer merchandise.
When: Ongoing.
Where: Bumbershute, 5014 France Av. S., Edina, 952-475-2684.

Ongoing: Ladyslipper's Winter Sale
What: Boot season is just getting started. But now you can get 50 percent off all fall and winter boots—and shoes—at Ladyslipper.
When: Ongoing.
Where: Ladyslipper, 4940 France Ave. S., Edina, 952-224-1900, www.ladyslipperboutique.com

Ongoing: OPM's Winter Sale
What: Receive 50 percent off all falla nd winter merchandise for OPM Facebook fans only; click here to "like" the page.
When: Ongoing
Where: OPM, 3700 Grand Way, St. Louis Park, 952-567-7399, www.opmboutique.com

Ongoing: Pumpz & Co. Winter Sale
What: Designer shoe boutique Pumpz & Co. is taking 50 percent off select fall and winter styles by names like Alexander Wang, Frye, Stuart Weitzman, Tory Burch, Tila March, Carlos Falchi and more, plus 70 percent off previous season styles in the sale room.
When: Ongoing
Where: Pumpz & Co., 3335 Galleria, Edina, 952-926-2252, www.pumpzandco.com

Ongoing: Parc Boutique's Winter Sale
What: Parc Boutique’s winter sale features 30 to 75 percent on all fall and winter merchandise.
When: Ongoing.
Where: Parc Boutique, 320 E. Hennepin Av., Minneapolis, 320 E. Hennepin Ave., Minneapolis, 612-353-4966, www.parcboutique.com

Ongoing: Grand Hand Gallery Winter Sale
What: The Grand Hand's annual Winter Sale includes discounts on holiday items. Find handcrafted holiday ornaments, winter wearables and selected jewelry marked down 20 to 70 percent, with more items and discounts to be added throughout the sale. Come early for best selection.
When: December 26-January 22.
Where: 619 Grand Ave., St. Paul, 651-312-1122, www.thegrandhand.com

Ongoing: Bibelot's Winter Sale
What: Get 50 percent off select gifts and décor and 30 to 70 percent off women’s clothing.
When: Ongoing.
Where: Four metro locations, including 1082 Grand Ave., St. Paul, 651-222-0321, www.bibelotshops.com

Ongoing: russell+hazel's Winter Sale
What: At the flagship store for chic paper brand russell+hazel , enjoy 50–60 percent off all Mara Mi holiday items and other select products.
Where: Ongoing.
When: 4388 France Ave., S., Minneapolis, 952-279-1360, russellandhazel.com

Ongoing: Local Motion's Blowout Clearance Sale
What: Local Motion’s blowout clearance sale includes 30 to 50 percent off most fall items. Also kicking off this week is the ongoing happy hour Fridays, with a different item on sale each week from 4 to 6 p.m. plus treats and refreshments.
When: Ongoing.
Where: Local Motion, 2813 Hennepin Ave. S., Minneapolis, 612-871-8436, www.localmotionmpls.com

Ongoing: n'etc Winter Sale
What: Designer boutique n'etc kicks off its winter sale on Black Friday, offering 50 percent off all fall and winter merchandise.
When: Ongoing.
Where: n'etc, 5005 France Avenue S, Edina, 612-922-9321, www.netcmsp.com

Ongoing: BANGbang Salon's Winter Sale
What: BANGbang Salon’s winter sale includes 20 percent off Illume candles and diffusers and 30 percent off select jewelry and handbags.
When: December 28-January 14
Where: BANGbang Salon, 11 W. 38th St., Minneapolis, 612-823-2264, www.bangbangmpls.com

Now open: SHIP&SHAPE
What: In the increasingly viable world of e-retailing, more and more local designers and entrepreneurs are abandoning traditional brick-and-mortar for something with a bit further reach. One could count the success of (former) Minneapolis knitwear designer Annie Larson, who landed features in national magazines and an exclusive collection for Madewell on the strength of her e-shop. Now, her longtime pals Erin Smith (of SISBRO Design), Annika Kaplan and Maddy Nye (of MN&Co) are joining forces to open their own e-shop, SHIP&SHAPE. The e-shop will have a focus on limited edition handmade goods from themselves and 15 of their crafty friends, including Larson and Voltage 2010 standout Rachel Blomgren, with quarterly collections launching every season.
Where: www.shipandshape.com

A Few of Our Favorite Things: l'etoile's Best of 2011

2012-01-02T18:48:00.031-05:00

2011...where to begin? It was a year packed with creativity, collaboration, and sheer brilliance. From social media to art to fashion to music and everything else in between, the Twin Cities once again blew us away. After much deliberation, we present to you our favorite local moments, milestones and talented people of the year past. Here's to 2012 and more memorable moments!

xo-l'étoile

BEST WEBSITE: MPLS.TV

We'll admit it, we're actually a little jeally of MPLS.TV! They have so much creative energy, we often get sleepy just watching them. What started out as a web TV show a couple years ago has turned into a full force media entity, creating not just arts n' culture-focused video content, but editorial content as well. But it doesn't stop there: the MPLS.TV crew throws wicked parties, sponsors the coolest of cool events, and have dipped their toes into national waters with online powerhouses like Pitchfork.com, where in collaboration with talented film director/editor Dan Huiting, they've moved their band-focused series, City of Music. Our advice? Follow them. MPLS.TV rocks social media, continually keeping their audience interested and engaged. Check them on Twitter and Facebook or visit the site itself at www.MPLS.TV. -Kate Iverson

BEST BLOG: Art of Wore

When METRO Magazine fashion editor Mary O'Regan made the recent announcement she'd be leaving the Midwest for the west coast come January, we were not only losing a staunch supporter and tough critic in the world of local fashion, we also are losing her eclectic personal blog, Art of Wore, which spotlights her personal inspiration, an occasional outfit post, behind-the-scenes and final images of the fashion shoots and stories she's worked on, and day-in-the-life imagery - most of which is gorgeously rendered in Mary's own photography. Fortunately, you can continue to follow her at ArtOfWore.com, which she promises to update with her future projects. -Jahna Peloquin

BEST TWEETER: @sideofhail

Photographer, visual artist and copywriter Sohail Akhavein is behind one of the most LOL-worthy Twitter accounts in town. Whether he's ruminating about his Persian-haired chest, recounting his awkward-yet-hilarious interactions with his co-workers ("that just wasn't the first time my boss has walked in on me watching youtube pole dancing videos"), offering up bon monts like "our christmas tree looks homeless," revealing that "everything i know about detecting fake british accents i learned from mrs. doubtfire," or making proclamations like "there is no one i wish to slap with a piece of lunch meat with more than the dunn bros barista bitch who calls me her 'special buddy,'" Sohail won a special place in our a-Twittering hearts in 2011. Follow Sohail at @sideofhail. -J.P.

BEST BACHELOR: Gregory J. Scott

Not sure who Gregory Scott is? Stop before you try to look him up on Facebook, you won't find him there. Weird, right? We know. But that's part of Gregory's mystique. A journalist who has done lengthy stints at most major publications in town, including METRO, Vita.mn, Downtown Journal, and most recently, Minnesota Monthly, the handsome Mr. Scott makes the ladies swoon with his smart style and sparkling wit. Definitely one of our favorite people to have a conversation with in the Twin Cities, Gregory's best qualities--intelligence and charm--win us over every time. Not to mention, he's pretty darn easy on the eyes. Look for Mr. Scott making the art scene rounds during the weekends, follow him on Twitter, and read his clever work in Minnesota Monthly magazine. -K.I.

BEST BACHELORETTE: Hannah von der Hoff

Our bachelorette of the year is part Joan Holloway, part Rita Hayworth, and part Gwen Stefani back when she was still cool. The lead singer of Sexcat and the face of l'étoile's annual Jubilee party, von der Hoff is a gal-about-town with a heart of gold. Named one of the best new bands in the Twin Cities by City Pages, Sexcat has earned a large fanbase in a short amount of time, thanks to a unique sound, great stage presence, and their red-headed Amazon woman on vocals. von der Hoff is equally as comfortable in front of the camera as she is behind the microphone, modeling for print as well as live events. But don't be too intimidated, as her looks belie a sweet and good-humored personality. There is nothing too-cool-for-school about Hannah von der Hoff. But don't kid yourself, she's totally too cool for school. (Photo by Stephen Stephens) -Beth Hammarlund

BEST GAY: Raul Osorio

Even though he retreated from Minnesota for the tropical climate of Honduras for over half of 2011, fashion designer Raul Osorio stayed in our hearts - thanks in part to his continually entertaining, bilingual Twitter and Facebook updates. The Triple Double and Transmission regular is always ready to dance, always dressed to the hilt in his trademark Wild West-meets-goth style, always working on a new collection, and always full of sass, personality, and charmingly off-color remarks. He had our full attention with his fall 2010 showing with Danielle Everine, "Pale Rider"; then during Voltage last spring, he left us with his most sophisticated, wearable and cohesive collection to date. With the designer finally back in the Twin Cities, we're simply besides ourselves at what he'll come up with next. (Photo by Dillon Bakke) -J.P.

CUTEST COUPLE: Ashlee Walker & Corey Tenold

Oh, the injustice of it all. About-town model Ashlee Walker and her photographer boyfriend Corey Tenold are the perfect blend of good looks, refined talent, and honest-to-God sweetness. One of the most well-known and sought after models in town, it was recently announced that the Vision-represented Ashlee has been signed to a NYC agency. Tenold (a part-time model himself) has made a name for himself both as a photographer and as the brain behind the Trnds.com men's style blog and as a pretty sharp lensman. As the case for most artist/muse relationships, Tenold's best work comes from having his ladylove in front of the camera, and some of Walker's most enchanting and vulnerable moments are best captured when Tenold is behind the lens. (Photo by Corey Tenold) -B.H.

BEST POWER COUPLE: Stephanie & Cory Lake

Whether they're mingling at a low-key gallery opening or hosting a fundraiser for The Boys and Girls Club of the Twin Cities, Stephanie and Cory Lake are at their most fabulous and engaging selves. Stephanie has become one of the Twin Cities most sought-after jewelry designers, constantly winning accolades in local publications and beyond. Cory is no slouch himself, owning and operating American Guitar and Band in Maple Grove and founding the American Guitar and Band Academy to support and provide musical instruments, state-of-the-art recording equipment, and funding for music staff at Boys & Girls Clubs. The interiors of the couple's gorgeous home have been featured in various art and design publications; furnished with lush and eclectic decor, their home is a tribute to both fashion and rock and roll, while remaining endearingly pug-friendly. -B.H.

BEST ART EVENT: Czeslaw's Loop

After 2010's Art-a-Whirl Boat Project, "The Slow Mirror and the Metronome," it seemed unlikely that much could top the floating art installation. But in 2011, Permanent Design Group (of which l'étoile editor-in-chief Kate Iverson is a partner and creative director) took the concept to the nth degree, offering up a four-part "opera" spread over three days along the banks of the Mississippi River. Supposedly the final unperformed opus of a 1960s-era composer named Czeslaw Janecki, it was in reality an original multimedia composition by local musicians Chris Strouth and Marijuana Deathsquads' Ryan Olson and Stefan Alexander (a.k.a. P.O.S.). Performed on a barge as thunderbolts and lightning threatened to strike at any moment, everyone held their breath that all that expensive lighting and sound equipment would survive and no one would be electrocuted. But the gods smiled on us that weekend. Combining the elements of nature with music, art and concept, it quite simply couldn't have happened anywhere but in the Twin Cities, and that experience was and will be, for anyone who attended, singular, communal, and unforgettable. (Photo by Erik Hess) -J.P.

BEST NEW GALLERY: Future Presence Gallery

Around this time last year, l'étoile co-sponsored a pop-up art show held in the old Arise space on Lyndale Avenue. Despite the dismal conditions of the matchbox-size shop, Future Presence founders Nathaniel Smith and Bryant Locher managed to create a well-curated artsy wonderland, much to our delight. Fast forward to Art-A-Whirl this past spring: the duo struck again with another imaginative group show in a new location on 2nd Street Northeast - and it's where they've been ever since. From ephemeral street art shows featuring national and local artists to off-beat, unapologetic installation exhibits, Smith and Locher have taken a space that may very well qualify as condemned, and whipped it into a D.I.Y. project space with lots of potential and vision. They've recently added underground music venue to their repertoire (Speedboat Gallery-style) so keep your eyes peeled on their Facebook and website to get the skinny.

BEST ART EXHIBIT (NATIONAL): 123Klan at CO Exhibitions

Montreal-based collective 123Klan brought their unique blend of graffiti and graphic design to Minneapolis this November. The exhibition at CO Exhibitions featured their most recent work as well as a custom large-scale mural in the gallery space. A little gangsta and all self-aware, 123Klan's work is clever and humorous, without sacrificing its street cred. The show could have only been better if the audience had been present to watch the large-scale mural be painted, but you know, fumes and stuff. -B.H.

BEST ART EXHIBIT (LOCAL): "CURIO: A Michael Thomsen Retrospective" at Rogue Buddha Gallery

Who is the artist behind those intricately detailed and strangely engaging carnivalesque shrines? Michael Thomsen is a bit of a Twin Cities legend, and local art lovers had the chance to get to know him a little better at "CURIO: A Michael Thomsen Retrospective" at Rogue Buddha this spring. The exhibition spanned 20 years of the artist's work, while also featuring several new pieces and a short film. We found ourselves easily lost in Thomsen's work, searching for hidden details and calling over to one another whenever new tiny elements were discovered. The exhibit answered plenty of questions about who Thomsen is as an artist, but also triggered dozens of new questions and curiosities. Check out Thomsen's work on his website here. -B.H.

BEST ARTIST: Michael Gaughan

A head-banging Andrew W.K., "never nudes" descending a stair car, naked ladies in a pentagram formation: the visual art of Michael Gaughan has always been eye-catching, provocative, sometimes humorous, and technically refined. But perhaps the most genius part of his highly visceral, sexual work is that it is all depicted using Bob Ross' medium of choice, watercolor - a medium typically disavowed for its association with the blandly inoffensive. It just makes the artist's subject choices all that much more subversive. And his visual art is just the tip of the stair car, if you will - his recent freestyle rap performance as his alter ego Ice Rod via a live screened interaction with Chat Roulette was the most hysterically funny and jaw-droppingly genius thing we've witnessed all year. -J.P.

BEST PERFORMANCE: Queer Boys Night presents "Peligro"

Many of those in the local arts community are used to hearing the name Jaime Carrera in reference to one of his performance pieces, which typically have the artist playing some kind of character role. But for his first bout with curating, the arresting performer all but took a backseat to the red-hot action that hit the Patrick's Cabaret stage. From Tyler Jensen's glitter-splashed gay porn parody/homage "Money Shot" to Benjamin Fredrickson's gritty, grainy, subversively thrilling three-part film series to Dustin Maxwell's haunting "Little Labzydivey" dance in which he transforms from man to horse, it spanned the spectrum of modern queer performance art. But the most resounding moment may have been the video introduction depicting Carrera's red-lit face, lying sideways as a particularly devilish backing track by local sound experimentalist Albert Elmore boomed. "Welcome to Peligro," he said. It was as foreboding an introduction as one could come up with for a show centered around a theme of "danger." Below, click to view Jensen's "Money Shot." -J.P.

BEST FASHION DESIGNERS (tie): Kevin Kramp & Annie Larson

Kevin Kramp holds the distinction of being one the finest artists currently working in the Twin Cities. Last spring, the knitwear designer showed his Fall/Winter 2012 collection at the MNfashion-produced "The Shows" alongside designer Emma Berg. But his reach has extended far beyond the upper Midwest, and even the U.S. Two-thousand eleven was also the year the designer received prominent features in Italian Vogue and Belgium Elle, a runway presentation at Milan Fashion Week, a prestigious award from international emerging fashion designer organization ITS (International Talent Support). And as his fanbase continues to grow, Kramp continues to challenge himself and push forward. Let's hang onto him for as long as we can.

(Pictured above: Knitwear by Annie Larson [L] & Kevin Kramp [R]. Photos by Nicholas Marshall for the l'étoile editorial "The Knitting Factory," which can be viewed in full HERE.)

It has also been a big year for Annie Larson. The knitwear designer started off 2011 with one of her pieces featured in Time Out New York, kicking off a year of nonstop national press for the designer. In August, it was announced that she was working on an exclusive collection of hats and scarves for Madewell. By October, her designs were being knocked off by mass retailer Urban Outfitters (the sincerest and most insulting form of flattery). Unfortunately for us, this is the year that Larson's successes in the Twin Cities and beyond took her to New York City. We'll miss you Annie, but we look forward to your charming and colorful knits taking over the cold months in NYC. -B.H.

BEST FASHION BREAKOUT: Danielle Everine

Designer Danielle Everine tied for Best Fashion Breakout on our 2010 list, but somehow in 2011, she managed to break out all over again when she snagged a spot on the ninth season of Project Runway. Lamented by many as the worst season of the series, Everine showcased her sartorial skill to the world without taking any of the show runners' poorly disguised bait for conflict. She exited the program with dignity, and then went straight back to work on her own line, promptly producing a new capsule collection, "Call Me Ishmael," which she showed in October at Cliché. Taking her inspiration from whaling and maritime history, Everine reminded us that she can cook up far more engaging narratives than any producer on Project Runway. (Photo courtesy Lifetime) -B.H.

BEST FASHION EVENT: MNfashion Week presents "The Shows," Spring 2011

The best fashion events of the year earned their title by keeping it chic and simple. Set against the gritty, stripped-down backdrop of the Grainbelt Building, "The Shows" featured four of the Twin Cities' top fashion designers presenting their work in classic runway style. Kevin Kramp, Emma Berg, CounterCouture and George Moskal presented their latest collections over the course of two evenings, minus any bells or whistles. The events certainly didn't need any - the artists' designs were allowed to do the talking through understated yet seamless production, complete with with excellent and thoughtful audio-visual components, lighting, timing, models, and styling. (Pictured: Emma Berg's collection. Photo by Stephen Stephens) -B.H.

BEST NEW BOUTIQUE (MEN'S): Askov Finlayson

Classic, so-called "heritage" brands have been on the upsweep in the world of men's fashion over the past couple of years, and nowhere has this been evidenced as clearly as in the Twin Cities (see: BlackBlue, martinpatrick3 and the annual NorthernGRADE Men's Market). So it only stood to reason that the brothers Dayton, they of the Minneapolis retail dynasty known as Dayton's, would rightly expand upon this oh-so-Midwestern move toward quality and timelessness with Askov Finlayson, housed in the same Warehouse District building as the Dayton-owned Bachelor Farmer and Marvel Bar. From classic Barbour jackets and Norse Projects wool sweaters to unisex-friendly knit hats by former local Annie Larson and blankets from Minnesota-manufactured Fairbault Woolen Mills, the shop offers a thoughtful twist on classic style. -J.P.

BEST NEW BOUTIQUE (WOMEN'S): Roe Wolfe

We have to admit, we were a bit incredulous to hear about a designer boutique opening in St. Paul suburb Mendota Heights. After all, we rarely find our way out of either Twin City. But the recently-opened Roe Wolfe is worth the drive, thanks to a thoughtfully edited selection of clothing, accessories, cosmetics and fragrances from on-the-cusp brands like Aryn K., Matiko Footwear, and BECCA Cosmetics, not to mention internationally-lauded (and Minnesota resident) knitwear designer Kevin Kramp. It doesn't hurt that store co-owners are longtime stylists Romeny Chan and Ashley Kilcher, so take it from us - they know a thing or two about style. Click here for l'étoile's interview with Roe Wolfe's Romeny Chan. -J.P.

BEST NEW BAND: Poliça

It may seem like the obvious choice, but Poliça possess a magical formula of chemistry, skill, unique instrumentation, killer song writing, meticulous production, and lead vocalist Channy Leangeah's impassioned vox that places them miles ahead of their contemporaries. From their first performance at Nick & Eddie, it was clear that we were witnessing something very special. And, despite not having an official release in 2011, they had quite the banner year, placing second on City Pages' Picked 2 Click; tours that saw them playing sold-out venues on both coasts; high-profile spots at CMJ; heavy rotation on 89.3 the Current; and even selling out First Avenue's Mainroom in anticipation of their upcoming record release. In an era when media makes it damn near impossible to tell the difference between hype and the real deal, when new bands blow up like a flame and burn out just as quickly, Poliça let the intensity of their songs speak for themselves. (Photo by Graham Tolbert) -Robyn Lewis

BEST DANCE NIGHT: Get Cryphy

In a town rife with dance parties on any given night of the year, there is one that surpasses them all with sheer outrageousness. For four years, resident DJs Plain Ole Bill, Fundo, Last Word, and Jimmy2Times have built the phenomenon that is Get Cryphy, and its huge success is largely the result of their passion and unparallelled skill. There is absolutely no question that these guys are the elite at what they do, and the heart and soul they put into this night is nothing less than inspiring. Each month, they have the Record Room packed to the nuts with a diverse array of folks getting buck wild to the freshest mash-ups and rap anthems ever to pump a dance floor. Truly a sight to be seen - sweating, grinding, debauchery to a flawlessly mixed soundtrack. It thoroughly lives up to the hype, and then some. If you haven't allowed yourself the supreme pleasure of experiencing one of the best dance nights in the country, just down some liquid courage, hold your ground, and don't try to fight the irresistible urge to Get Cryphy. -R.L.

BEST MUSIC VIDEOS: Bon Iver Deluxe Edition

Like any great record, Bon Iver's masterful sophomore album demands to be heard in order, from the first guitar tone on "Perth" to the slow fade out at the end of "Beth/Rest." It demands to be played over and over, rediscovered and reinterpreted. Local filmmakers Isaac Gale, David Jensen and Dan Huiting understand the relationship between an album and its fans, and have set these songs to film by crafting expansive cinematic pieces that unfold and bloom slowly and delicately, creating a stunning meditation on what it means to experience music. The result is Justin Vernon's comprehensive vision for the album: ten lushly filmed, meticulously edited collages to accompany each song on 2011's most revered album, engaging the listener on a multimedia platform. With these visual accompaniments, the viewer is taken on a journey through psychedelic imagery, exploring themes of place, time, isolation, and nostalgia. This is not just a collection of music videos. It is an experiment that re-imagines the way an album can be experienced. -R.L.

BEST WEEK: Doomtree: The Whole Fucking Week at First Avenue

The idea seemed ridiculous: occupy First Avenue with an entire week's worth of shows. But for Doomtree, known for being the hardest working and most ambitious collective around, it was a celebration. Each lovingly-curated night saw music from all genres convene to score a legendary week of hugs, high-fives, drinking, and dancing. Each night no less joyful or memorable then the last. It was a celebration indeed. And what was taken away from the experience, more than anything else, was feeling part of something special, something exciting. Doomtree is very much a family, and all who go to their shows become a small extension of it. Aside from the music, it is this sense of community that has kept friends and fans alike coming back night after night, year after year. After pulling off such such an epic scene, it is fair to wonder how they'll manage to top it. But we're confident they'll find a way. (Photo by Ben Lafond) -R.L.

BEST SHOW: Pink Mink Sunset Cocktail Cruise & Album Release Party

At the peak of summer, nearly a year after storming the scene with their tight, poppy garage rock, local music vets Pink Mink were ready to debut their first album. And true to the lavish style of their music, they weren't going to celebrate any old way. No, the classic "band and friends" CD release formula just wouldn't do. Pink Mink wanted to take us along on their fantastical voyage - a three hour nautical-themed rock cruise on the mighty Mississippi. Filled with two hundred of the bands closest friends, the Betsey Northrup departed St. Paul at dusk on what would become one of the most memorable concert experiences in recent memory. Birthday Suits and Pink Mink both tore through blistering sets in the summer heat, while Current DJ David Campbell spun sweet yacht rock on the upper deck. Memories were made (and in some cases, lost) and nobody got seasick. It was one for the record books! (Photo by Erik Hess) -R.L.

BEST SONG: Mark Mallman, "Minneapolis"

How could we not give a nod to our perennial hero, Mark Mallman? In 2011 the prolific piano man penned an ode to our fair city entitled, simply, "Minneapolis." The tune captured Mark's love of the Twin Cities, basically stating that no matter where he is or where he goes, Minneapolis will always be home - and we concur. This past November, Mallman uprooted from Minneapolis and took flight for Los Angeles, where he's been busy working on film scores and other composing projects. And though his constant presence in the Twin Cities will be sorely missed by us and many others, we know he'll come back home to us time and time again (this past New Years weekend being a prime example). Keep up with Mark's antics via Twitter and his website, and check out the song and video for "Minneapolis" below. -K.I.

Weekend What's What 12/29-12/31

2011-12-29T10:36:00.017-05:00

THURSDAY DECEMBER 29TH

Skate Related 2

@ XY&Z Gallery
3258 Minnehaha Ave. S.
Minneapolis

8 p.m. – 11 p.m. / Free

Skate culture has long cultivated a unique and stylish aesthetic, and that style has been so seamlessly co-opted into the mainstream that sometimes it’s easy to forget the seminal and influential link between boarding, fashion, and art. Tonight’s party is a reminder of the enduring vitality of the skate scene with eye-popping work by 17 artists including posters, photos, and videos inspired by skateboarding. Pick up a fresh piece of art and then hop over to the adjacent Trylon Microcinema for the premiere of sick skate video Mogazelle. There’s sure to be somewhere to stash your board, so ride on in!

Click HERE for the Facebook event

THURSDAY DECEMBER 29TH

Experimental Pop with James Diers and Jacob Hanson of Hallowen Alaska

@ Red Stag
509 1st Ave NE
Minneapolis

10 p.m. / 21+/ Free

James Dier and Jacob Hanson of the notable Minneapolis-based indie band Halloween Alaska, will get together for an experimental pop show this Thursday at the Red Stag. The multi-talented indie rockers are famous for tastefully mixing their mindful and moody lyrics into ambient and electronically-woven blankets of musical bliss. The show starts at 10, so don’t be late.

Click HERE for the Red Stag site

FRIDAY DECEMBER 30TH

The Money Shot 2011

@ Turf Club
1601 University Ave.
St. Paul

9 p.m. / +21 / $8

It’s appropriate that two of the most prolific photographic chroniclers of the Twin Cities music scene would present an overview of their 2011 work at a music venue accompanied by some great local acts. Erik Hess and Stacy Schwartz are powerhouses of local music photo journalism, both with a unique ability to capture the ‘you were there’ essence of a great performance – be it a sweaty indie rock show or a grand art-concept concert. Beyond the opportunity to see (and buy) framed prints of some of Erik and Stacy’s best work, you can take in music by local bands Iguano (featuring members of Pink Mink and Revolver Modele), Krudder, Wizards are Real, Crescent Moon is in Big Trouble, and DJ’s Lady Heat. If you’re feeling adventurous order bartender Joshua James' special “Money Shot” to celebrate the evening. Take advantage of the chance to see the work of these great photo artists live and in person and relive all the musical adventures of 2011!

Click HERE for the Facebook event

Photo by Erik Hess / Czeslaw's Loop, May 2011

FRIDAY DECEMBER 30TH

Last Night Famous

@ Honey
205 E. Hennepin Ave
Minneapolis

10 p.m. / 21+/ $3 before 11, $5 after

Last Night Famous is definitely a see and be seen situation! This Friday, the Brown Girl Files and Honey deliver a night of dance, drinks, DJs, and memorable photo opps galore. Experience an incredible mix of talent and taste from DJs So Gold from Wants Vs. Needs and Ken Hannigan of Anthem Heart. The two are guaranteed to bring the heat. Before you call your friends, make sure you dress to impress: Former local/current NYC shutterbug, Brad Ogbonna, will be snapping pics all night, so you and the crew best be looking extra snazzy.

Click HERE for the Facebook event

FRIDAY DECEMBER 30TH

BNLX/ The Cloak Ox/ Night Moves

@ Cause
3001 Lyndale Ave S
Minneapolis

9:30 p.m. / $6

Tonight, don't miss one show featuring three heavily hyped local bands. Check live performances from husband/wife “psych-kraut-postpunk” duo, BNLX and the catchy electronic-meets-country vibed faves, Night Moves (also known as the dreamy MGMT-esque trio who recently scored a deal with Domino Records alongside national acts like Animal Collective, Arctic Monkeys, Dirty Projectors and more. Congrats guys!) Tonight's show also includes Andrew Broder's latest enigmatic rock project, the Cloak Ox, which features local music veterans Martin Dosh, Jeremy Ylvisaker (Alpha Consumer) and Mark Erickson (Fog). Prepare for groovin'.

Click HERE for the Facebook event

FRIDAY DECEMBER 30TH

Bloodnstuff / Hastings 3000 / Vernon Wayne

@ Hell's Kitchen
80 S 9th St
Minneapolis

10 p.m. / 18+ / $5

Former Economy Team band members Dylan Gouert and Ed Holmberg – aka Bloodnstuff – are finding their musical power is even stronger as a duo than it ever was as a trio. The group manages to layer live bass, guitar riffs, and melodies while laying on the vocals – all without recording or looping – building a sound as big and complex as any four-piece. This Friday, catch the ambitious pair at Hell's Kitchen with live sets from guests one-man blues/punk outfit, Hastings 3000 and baroque indie hard rockers, Vernon Wayne. Plus, don't forget to take full advantage of Hell's tasty drink specials featuring 3 buck PBRs and $5 Jameson. Live life dangerously.

Click HERE for the Facebook event

SATURDAY DECEMBER 31ST

Sound Gallery New Years Eve feat. WUGAZI

@ Sound Gallery
Secret Location
Minneapolis

7 p.m. – 5 a.m. / $30

Definitely the place to be when the ball drops, this killer bash (sponsored by yours truly) will feature hot performances and DJ sets galore and promises to last well into the wee hours of the AM. Catch sets from Cecil Otter and Swiss Andy's internationally-hyped Fugazi/Wu-Tang Clan mash-up tribute project, Wugazi, plus tuneage from DJ Dick Pic (Maggie Morrison & Machen Davis), DJs' Lady Heat (Danielle Morris & Christy Hunt) and live performances from eclectic and energetic rock duo, Fort Wilson Riot; dreamy garage rock darlings, Zoo Animal; and Come Fizzy Dolphin feat. Mark McGee of To Kill a Petty Bourgeoisie and Jacob Grun of Me and My Arrow. Sip down awesome specialty cocktails and nibble some nosh as local awesomeness whisks you into the new year. And for the bargain of $30 all-you-can-drink-all-night-long, you can't really go wrong.

*****Space is very limited so RSVP at soundgalleryRSVP@gmail.com ASAP to get in on the NYE action.

Sponsored by l'etoile!

Click HERE for the Facebook event

SATURDAY DECEMBER 31ST

New Year's Eve Cover Show

@ Turf Club
1601 University Ave W
St. Paul

8 p.m. / $21+ / $10

We can't get enough of cover bands. For one supreme night, cool local bands channel the sounds and personas of music legends. It's like a split personality of the music world! Tonight, say “adieu” to 2011 with live performances from four Twin Cities faves including STNNNG as rock gods, AC/DC; Leisure Birds as 60's psych-rockers, The Troggs; Seawhores as obscure German techno noise trio, Zeigenbock Kopf; and CLAPS as new wavers, New Order. Plus, jam to tunes by DJ TRL between sets, throw back Turf-worthy libations, and prepare for free bubbles at midnight. Happy New Years!

Click HERE for the Turf site

SATURDAY DECEMBER 31ST

Mystery Palace EP Release

@ Cause
3001 Lyndale Ave S
Minneapolis

9 p.m. / no cover

Mystery Palace fans will find tonight's NYE show a bit on the bittersweet side as this will be one of the last shows before the band calls it quits this summer after almost 7 years of rockin'. But before you bust out the Kleenexes, rejoice in the fact that before they disband, the MPLS glitch-poppers plan to leave behind two more glorious Eps. How's that for going out in style? Tonight, join Mystery Palace for the release of their junior album, Sleepless, and be among the first to snag a coveted copy and other awesome MP merch. Enjoy live sets from fuzzy electro-noise pop band, Dial-Up; pop rock quintet, Hot Freaks; and – of course – Mystery Palace to ring in the new year.

Click HERE for the Cause site

SATURDAY JANUARY 31ST

Mark Mallman's New Year's Eve in 3D

@ 7th St. Entry
701 1st Ave N
Minneapolis

9pm / 18+ / $12

Epic concerts are just another day in the life of TC fave Mark Mallman, whose name has become synonymous with New Years Eve. His past NYE antics have included such stunts as him riding a moped on stage, a rollergirls singalong, covers of the Cure, Bjork, and Green Day, and "the keyborg", so for tonight's 6th annual Mallman-helmed 3D NYE bash expect nothing less than thunderous piano playing, jaw-dropping antics, bells, whistles and multimedia stimulation. Ring it all in with Mr. Serious with help from opening acts Sexcat and Koo Koo Kanga Roo. Knowing the Mall-man, mayhem is absolutely bound to ensue, we we can't wait to see what this year's stunt will be!

Click HERE for the First Ave site

SATURDAY DECEMBER 31TH

Bach Pham’s Wondrous Asian NYE

@ Caterpillar Lounge
533 Hennepin Ave. S
Minneapolis

10 p.m. – 2 a.m. / 21+ / No Cover

If you’re hoping to avoid ridiculous cover charges and still party down in a swank location this New Year’s Eve, your search is over. The Caterpillar Lounge is hosting a chic fête with l'etoile fave, DJ Bach, where you can sample the delicious cocktails and nibbles from the Wondrous menu as you ring in 2012. With no cover you’re sure to have a little more cash in your pocket to spruce up your party ensemble or send a drink to that hottie eyeing you from across the room!

Click HERE for the Facebook event

SATURDAY DECEMBER 31TH

Wants Vs Needs – NYE 2010

@ Clubhouse Jager
923 Washington Ave. N
Minneapolis

10 p.m. / +21 / $15

If you’re fatigued by the promise of another high concept NYE event and just want a chill place to dance in the new year, party curators extraordinaire Wants Vs. Needs have your number. Their exclusive and gimmick free 2012 celebration at Clubhouse Jäger is sure to be an ideal place to show off your dancing shoes with great music by the crew’s DJs and a complimentary champagne toast at midnight. The lovely hand numbered tickets are in fact limited-edition letterpress art pieces designed by graphics powerhouse The Pressure (aka formerly local hottie Adam Garcia), so they’ll look great in your 2011 scrapbook. Tickets are only available at Fifth Element or Jäger so you NEED to snap yours up before they’re gone!

Click HERE for the Facebook event

SATURDAY DECEMBER 31ST

Midnight: NYE at Jetset

@ Jetset Bar
115 N First Street
Minneapolis

10 p.m. / 21+/ Free

Any time is a good time at Jetset, if you ask us, but NYE will make all the more glittery. Join dancetastic duo DJs JR and Punchy who will countdown their top ten songs of 2011, hence creating the perfect vibe as the evening floats into 2012. Wear something dapper and/or sparkly as you steal your New Year’s kiss and clink champagne glasses at the stroke of midnight with your best gays.

Click HERE for the Facebook invite

Editor in Chief: Kate Iverson // Contributors: Juleana Enright, Kate Iverson, Robyn Lewis, Jahna Peloquin, Stefani Arden, Anthony Enright

l'étoile's Guide to Sales and Shopping

2011-12-26T11:00:00.000-05:00

Where: BANGbang Salon, 11 W. 38th St., Minneapolis, 612-823-2264, www.bangbangmpls.com

Thursday: Ralph Rapson Chair Design Opening Reception & Release
What: To launch its new relationship with Rapson Inc., Danish Teak Classics will be featuring both vintage and new Rapson rockers from the legendary Minnesotan architect and interior designer, as well as design sketches from the Ralph Rapson collection archives during this opening reception and release party. Attendees will be able to vote for the next Rapson chair design to be produced and enjoy refreshments.
When: 6-9 p.m. Thursday, December 29.
Where: Danish Teak Classics, Northrup King Building, Suite 277, 1500 Johnson St. NE., Minneapolis, 612-362-7870, www.danishteakclassics.com

Saturday: Forage Modern Workshop NYE Party
What: Forage Modern Workshop, a soon-to-open furniture and home goods store specializing in both modern and vintage design, is throwing a New Year’s Eve party in their new building. Preview the studio, enjoy drinks from a cash bar, snacks and espresso, plus live music from the Cactus Blossoms, Greycoats, Ghost in the Water and DJ Erotic Vulture.
When: 8 p.m.-2 a.m. Saturday, December 31.
Where: Forage Modern Workshop, 4023 E. Lake St., Minneapolis, www.foragemodernworkshop.com

Through Saturday: White Rabbit Variety Shop Pop Up
What: White Rabbit Variety Shop lives up to its name by offering something for just about everyone this holiday. The pop-up store features an array of local curiosities, including collages, lotions, jewelry, photography, and more by 21 Twin Cities artists.
When: Through Saturday, December 31.
Where: 2520 Hennepin Ave., S., Minneapolis, 612-636-2140.

Thursday: Target Free Thursday Nights Special in the Walker Shop
What: Each month during Target Free Thursday Nights, the Walker Shop is offering a discount on a selected item. The featured item for December is the Pantone mug. Inspired by the Pantone Color charts, these mugs are glazed as an iconic Pantone Color Chip and come with a Pantone chip tag. Each mug is $10 in the Walker Shop on Thursdays in December (a $5 discount). (Limit one per person; discount cannot be combined; discount available in store only.)
When: Thursdays through December 29.
Where: Walker Shop at the Walker Art Center, 1750 Hennepin Ave., Minneapolis, 612-375-7633, shop.walkerart.org

Through December 29: Rose Mille Flagship Location Closing Sale
What: Since Rose Mille moved to Stillwater's Grand Garage, they're offering up the leftovers at 50 percent off the lowest price through December 29 at the old Main Street location. The closeout sale includes clothes, gifts, and furnishings.
When: Through Thursday, December 29.
Where: Rose Mille, 125 S. Main St., Stillwater, 651-342-0206, www.rosemille.com

Through December 31: KOKOON Online Sale & Clearance
What: Now through the end of the year, shop the extensive selection of local brand KOKOON's sale and clearance. Plus if you purchase $100 in gift certificates between now and December 20, you'll receive a $20 bonus certificate for yourself.
When: Now through December 31.
Where: www.kokoon.net

Now open: SHIP&SHAPE
What: In the increasingly viable world of e-retailing, more and more local designers and entrepreneurs are abandoning traditional brick-and-mortar for something with a bit further reach. One could count the success of (former) Minneapolis knitwear designer Annie Larson, who landed features in national magazines and an exclusive collection for Madewell on the strength of her e-shop. Now, her longtime pals Erin Smith (of SISBRO Design), Annika Kaplan and Maddy Nye (of MN&Co) are joining forces to open their own e-shop, SHIP&SHAPE. The e-shop will have a focus on limited edition handmade goods from themselves and 15 of their crafty friends, including Larson and Voltage 2010 standout Rachel Blomgren, with quarterly collections launching every season.
Where: www.shipandshape.com

Now open: mnartists.marketplace
What: A new mini store opens within the Walker Shop this week devoted solely to art, artistic wares, and art inspired objects by locals. Co-curated by mnartists.org, the shop features a curated selection of artists' works, plus limited edition objects sold exclusively at the Walker Shop. The first edition of artist-design objects is a series of pint glasses featuring the work of six Minnesota artists; each set of six pint glasses comes with a voucher for two complimentary beers at Gather by D'Amico. (Pictured: Gentry Night Studios)
Where: Walker Shop at the Walker Art Center, 1750 Hennepin Avenue, Minneapolis, 612-375-7633.

Now open: 'Graphic Design: Now in Production' Popup Shop
What: The Walker Art Center is known for having one of the best gift shops in town, so it should come as no surprise that the popup shop for its latest exhibition, "Graphic Design: Now in Production" is equally stellar. Design-oriented goods from many of the exhibition's contributors let museum-goers take home a piece of the show, whether it's a $6 roll of designer wrapping paper or a $250 designer axe with a colorful paint-dipped handle by Best Made Company.
When: Now through January 22, 2011.
Where: Walker Art Center, 1750 Hennepin Avenue, Minneapolis, 612-375-7633, www.walkerart.org

Weekend What's What 12/22-12/25

2011-12-22T12:26:00.013-05:00

THURSDAY DECEMBER 22ND

Plastic Believers + Carlo Marx

@ Honey
205 E Hennepin Ave
Minneapolis

7 p.m. / 21+ / $4

Here at l'etoile, we love us some local music duos. From BLNX and The Night to Red Pens and Lookbook, when the power of two is harnessed, the result is typically nothing less than epic aural goodness. New local pair, the Plastic Believers, are no exception. Dubbed “New Order-meets-a-haunted Alison Moyet,” Plastic Believers features the tasty synthpop sounds of husband-wife team, Sahil and Kelly, whose dreamy, echoed vocals lead listeners on a spacey journey through the experimental. Tonight, join Plastic Believers, Carlo Marx (of UMAMI), and the Adventure Time DJs for a pre-Xmas dance bash sure to get you in the holiday spirit.

Click HERE for the Facebook event

THURSDAY DECEMBER 22ND

Vampire Hands (original members) with Shaws, Voytek, and Wave Pool

@ Turf Club
1601 University Ave
St. Paul

9 p.m. / 21+

Those nostalgic for the "old days" at the Turf Club when psychedelia ruled the scene wont want to stay in this evening, as original Vampire Hands member Colin Johnson returns from Montana to play a one-off reunion show. Tonight, the Turf boasts a slick line up of bands that will get you properly pumped for holiday schmoozing (and boozing, if your family is anything like ours). Rock out to the festive stylings of Vampire Hands, Shaws, Voytek, and newbies to watch Wave Pool...and consider it an early x-mas gift to yourself!

Click HERE for the Turf site

NOW THROUGH DECEMBER 29TH

HANUKCRUSH!

@ Cause
3001 Lyndale Ave. S
Minneapolis

8 p.m. / $5 Dec 21 & 23 / Other Dates: No Cover

Is there a more appropriate way to celebrate Hanukkah than numerous kick-ass bands rocking out for EIGHT consecutive nights? Possibly, but we’re pretty sure it wouldn't be nearly as loud or even close to the level of fun promised by HANUKCRUSH! All the goyim will find plenty to like as a menorah's worth of bands takes the stage for every evening of the 'festival of lights'. Local space rock supergroup Dream Crusher anchors the performances each night along with special guests and favorites like The Rope, Sex Rays, Mayda, I Am Satellite, Speeds the Name and others for more than 30 bands in all. Nyteowl perform a CD release set tonight, while Minneapolis punkers Dying Midwestern reunite for a show this Friday. Games – presumably involving dreidels – DJ's and special bartending talent round out the entertainment. Find a night to come down and say Mazel tov, eh?

Click HERE for the Cause site

HANUKCRUSH PROMO! from Mo McNichols on Vimeo.

THURSDAY DECEMBER 22ND

Gentle Lovers presents: Hot Toddies & Hot Bodies at Clubhouse Jager

@ Clubhouse Jäger
923 Washington Ave. N.
Minneapolis

9 p.m. / 21+/ Free

Ease into the season this Thursday with DJ duo Grant Cutler and Allegra Oxborough of Gentle Lovers. These two cuties bring the heat with their old school classics and sexy RnB. We hope you’re in the mood to be merry because an evening of "slow jams, sweet yams, and delicious hot toddies" awaits you.

Click HERE for the Facebook event

FRIDAY DECEMBER 23RD

DJ Vinyl Venus + Brick's Birthday Bash

@ Nick & Eddie's Back Bar
1612 Harmon Place
Minneapolis

9 p.m. / 21+ / free

The terms “dirt box” and “glitter” may not sound like they would fit together, but if anyone could make them sound sexy, it's the fierce Venus DeMars of All the Pretty Horses. Tonight, join the glam diva for the 2nd installment of “Dirt-Box 'Glitter' Fridays,” a 95% vinyl affair into 80's punk and new wave, classic disco, Motown, underground and – of course – glitz 'n' glam. Who can resist? Get extra spoiled as tonight doubles as the b-day celebration for local music scenester Raymond (Brick) Albright. Move it to sassy jams from Venus all night long, plus a few funky tunes from Brick. Why? Because you're worth it.

Click HERE for the Facebook event

FRIDAY DECEMBER 23RD

RECESS w/ Willy Joy + Booka B & Espada

@ Varsity
1308 4th St SE
Minneapolis

10 p.m. – 2 a.m. / 18+ / $7 or $5 w/ RSPV

Celebrate RECESS' 1 year anniversary with a killer pre-Xmas dance set headlined by MN-bred/Chicago-based producer/DJ Willy Joy. A staple in the clubbing community with a pretty bright resume, dancefloor monster Willy Joy has worked with Rob Threezy, Diplo, Brodinski and Sinden, labels like Fool's Gold, Plant Music and Trouble & Bass, and can boast the title of Kid Sister's DJ, not to mention named one of URB Magazine's “Next 100 Artists to Watch.” Expect bonerattling bass remixes with booty shaking tropical drum combos and original productions. Plus, check ultra impressive old skool deejaying from MPLS Wants Vs Needs resident DJ duo Booka B & Espada, sure to bring electro soul & raw dubstep bass-driven turntable gems. And, per usual, be blown away by interactive digital video curated by the VJ masters of Playatta. Oh yes, Santa heard your prayers and delivered you a bass-heavy Christmas. Elf thanking is optional.

Click HERE for the Facebook event

FRIDAY DECEMBER 23RD

Arcwelder/Safewords/Red Pens

@ Turf Club
1601 University Ave W
St. Paul

9 p.m. / 21+ / $8

MPLS rock veteran's Arcwelder lit up the late 80's/early 90's local scene with their post-punk influenced tracks, punchy rhythm riffs and distortion-heavy melodies. Oh yeah, the tripod is still here and ready to zap you out of a dreary winter. Tonight, catch live sets from punk rockers, Safewords – featuring Jeremy Ward of STNNNG – plus artful Sonic Youth-kindreds, “fuzzy buzzy lo-fi” band, Red Pens, and, of course, Arcwelder. Too much time on your hands? Head down to the Turf early to catch Mary Mack's North Star Comedy Hour & Meat Raffle variety act and sing-a-long in the Clown Lounge. The “Dysfunctional Holiday Edition” showcases the talents of Frances Gumm, Rana May, comedian Zach Coulter, accordionist Tony Pastrami, The Profanity Singers and a special guest. Starts at 6:45; costs $5 or “whatever you can pay” donation.

Click HERE for the Turf site

FRIDAY DECEMBER 23RD

The Pleasure Principals

@ Clubhouse Jäger
923 Washington Ave. N.
Minneapolis

10 p.m. / 21+/ Free

This Friday, Mike 2600 and DJ Espada are The Pleasure Principals. Prepare yourself for a night of funk-filled, unadulterated, pre-holiday pleasure as you dance to the sophisticated spinnings and double DJ remakes of old school classics. In the mood for Michael and Janet, Stevie Wonder, Stevie Nicks, Billy Idol, and Billy Ocean all under one roof? If you’re catching what we’re throwing out, you know Jag is the place to be tonight. Dress your best and snag a cup of holiday cheer, Clubhouse Jäger will provide the beer.

Click HERE for the Facebook event

FRIDAY DECEMBER 23RD

Christmas Eve Eve: Shake Your Tambourine

@ Honey
205 East Hennepin
Minneapolis

10 p.m. / +21 / $5

It's a pre-Christmas Eve dance party spectacular, and the guys who bring you Get Cryphy are promising to “...get real Bing Crosby in this bitch”. We doubt that will involve smooth singing and wholesome holiday spirit, but we do expect some nasty grooves that will have you sweating off Christmas dinner in advance. DJ's Plain Ole Bill, Jimmy2times, and Last Word are bringing along So Gold of Wants vs. Needs and Doomtree main man, Ander Other, to help you start the holidays off right! Get there early and you may win a pair of tickets to the much anticipated Cryphy Christmas Pageant.

Click HERE for the Facebook event

SATURDAY DECEMBER 24TH

Jewiblee!

@ The Depot & 7th St. Entry
17 North 7th St.
Minneapolis

9 p.m. / 18+ / Free (Depot) $3 (The Entry)

Where will all the coolest indie jews be this Saturday? You guessed it! Schmoozing, hob-nobbing and yes, probably also kvetching and noshing at the sixth annual Jewbilee! While we're noticing a theme of event titles with '!' in them for the Holidays, this exclamation point is well deserved. The party spans two venues and includes musical entertainment from The Honeydogs' Adam Levy, Kin w/ Bobby Z of The Revolution, party starter Mike the 2600 King, local hip-hop act Kids Like Us and “Rabbi” Jon Davis with his Klezmer Orchestra. Comedy offerings from David Harris, Laura Thorne, Dan Mogol, and Pat Susmilch will keep you from feeling like the most neurotic one in the room. This alternative to Christmas Eve celebrations for both Jews and non-Jews could be just the escape from you need from your family festivities, or a chance to share the holiday with your Hebrew homies. Come down, mingle, eat some Chinese food in The Entry, make it a new Christmas Eve tradition.

BONUS: If all that excitement makes you want dance yourself into a frenzy on Christmas Eve, head on over to the First Ave. Mainroom for Too Much Love. Every Saturday a $3 cover lets you party with celebrated DJ Soviet Panda as he spins an eclectic mix of danceable tunes till the wee hours--and Christmas Eve is certainly no exception.

Click HERE for the First Ave site

SUNDAY DECEMBER 25TH

The 5th or 6th Annual Xmas Night Staraoke Party

@ Triple Rock
629 Cedar Ave S
Minneapolis

9 p.m. / 21+ / Free

So blackout-heavy awesome of an event that hostess with the mostest, Arzu, doesn't know how many years it's gone on, the Triple Rock's annual Christmas night bash is back with another round of “I can't believe I sang the whole thing” karaoke tuneage. Whether you're hung over from Xmas Eve or completely sober, a karaoke king or a mic wielding newbie, or merely looking to escape the fam for a while, Staraoke is the place to be. Take a stab at a Christmas classic – we know you have a little Crosby in you – an 80's hair metal ballad or a melancholy country ditty (tis the season, right?). Honestly, who cares what you sing as long as you have some devoted friends backing you, a few tight moves and a heavy consumption of drinks. Head down early to put your name in the mix and snag your moment with the mic, as the night is always packed due to it being the coolest thing to do on Christmas other than watching the grandparents fall asleep on couch after too many gingerbread cookies. You make the choice.

BONUS: All your friends will be there!

Click HERE for the Triple Rock site

Editor in Chief: Kate Iverson // Contributors: Juleana Enright, Kate Iverson, Robyn Lewis, Jahna Peloquin, Stefani Arden, Anthony Enright

Weekend What's What 12/15-12/17

2011-12-15T13:21:00.012-05:00

THURSDAY DECEMBER 15TH (ENCORE OPENING FRIDAY)

Future Presence 4

@ The Future Presence Gallery
1126 2nd Street NE
Minneapolis

6-11 p.m. / free

Since the inception of Future Presence a year ago, the artist-run NE collective has seen over seven curated exhibitions with over 50 artists and has evolved into “one of the most unique” artist collectives/gallery spots in the city showcasing a refreshing mix of the undiscovered and the established. Their latest creative endeavor Future Presence 4 hones the talent of over 30 visual, sound and film artists, with collaborative performances and installations, not to mention a chance to peep the new digs at Future Presence's gallery space. Featuring art by Jesse Draxler, Amina Harper, Russ Olson, Bryant Locher, Chris Park, David Jensen, Wundr, Gregory J Rose and many more, beverages from Joia All Natural Soda and PBR and an encore opening night on Friday which includes Bollywood's EP Release in the EON Soundspace at 9 p.m.

Sponsored by l'etoile!

Click HERE for this art event and more at mplsart.com

THURSDAY DECEMBER 15TH

Third Thursday at MIA: Tinsel Town

@ MIA
2400 3rd Ave S
Minneapolis

6 p.m. to 9 p.m. / Free

The MIA combines holiday shopping a sparkling good time this Thursday in another edition of their monthly 3rd Thursday event. In addition to free admission to the museum, a number of festive activities will be at your fingertips, holiday gift shopping, a craft-a-card photo booth, live music from locals The Brutes, and a jaunt through Winterlights, a twinkling tour that celebrates winter festivities from around the world.

Click HERE for the MIA site

THURSDAY DECEMBER 15TH

Perish

@ Kitty Cat Klub
315 14th Ave SE
Minneapolis

10 p.m. / 21+ / free

Attention synth fans, do you love the melancholy? Have a thing for gothic rock? Ethereal shoegaze? Sorrow you can dance to? Well, you're in luck. Despite what the mainstream air waves are streaming, darkwave isn't dead. Every month join Perish's resident DJs for another dark n' decadent dance installment at the Kitty Cat Klub. This time around, catch a live performance from krautrock solo project of Jason Kesselring (Skye Klad), Comets Ov Cupid, and local instrumental rock band, Take Acre. Plus, get down to dancey post-punk gems and gothy charms spun by resident Perish DJs. Black attire encouraged.

Click HERE for the Facebook page

FRIDAY DECEMBER 16TH

Katelyn Farstad: New Work

@ Shoebox Gallery
2948 Chicago Ave. S
Minneapolis

6 p.m. – 9 p.m. / Free

Minneapolis artist and musician Katelyn Farstad’s work is bright, colorful, mysterious and always unexpected. In the past she has presented painting sculpture hybrids, installation pieces and even pieces incorporating re-purposed found objects. Always intriguing and unpredictable, we’re excited to see what’s next when she presents new work at the Shoebox Gallery. In addition to Katlyn’s new work, the evening will feature a presentation by Sean Smuda, who will share an 8 p.m. open studio and discussion about his recent trip as Minneapolis Artist Liaison to sister city Tours, France. A multi-faceted evening of artistic experience awaits.

Click HERE for the Facebook event

FRIDAY DECEMBER 16TH – 22ND

Stuck Between Stations

@ St. Anthony Main Theater
115 Main St. SE
Minneapolis

Show Times Vary / $8.50

When was the last time we got to see Minneapolis represented as the hotbed of sexy independent cool that we know it to be and not some podunk outpost of regional accents and snow bound losers? Honestly, and sadly…almost never. So hats off to the refreshingly unaffected indie film Stuck Between Stations which was not only shot locally and named for a Hold Steady song, but also blessed with Josh Hartnett's appearance – sporting a fetching neck tattoo no less! It may just be the best ever cinematic representation of the magical joy of falling in love on a summer evening in Minneapolis. If you missed this little gem at the MSPIFF now’s your chance to catch it when it returns this week for a theatrical run. Friday's opening evening will be packed with activities and celebrations surrounding the release, so if you want to hob-nob with the cast and crew head over to the Aster Café at 6 p.m. for an informal reception prior to the 7p.m. screening. After the show join the gang at CO Exhibitions for a premiere after-party with performances by Grant Cutler, Members of Doomtree, Andrew Broder, and The Pizza Boys! Immerse yourself in an evening of Minneapolis pride and get a cinematic glimpse at the way we live here and now.

Click HERE for showtimes

"Stuck Between Stations" Movie Trailer from Stuck Between Stations on Vimeo.

FRIDAY DECEMBER 16TH

Big Quarters CD Release at Triple Rock

@ Triple Rock
629 Cedar Avenue
Minneapolis

9 p.m. / 21+/ $8 in advance $10 at the door

Minnesotan hip-hop is about to set the Triple Rock on fire this Friday at the Big Quarters CD Release party. Brandon Allday and Medium Zach will celebrate the release of their full-length album Party like a Commie on this fine, festive evening. The local duo’s previous works were voted two of the Best Albums of 2007 and 2009 by the Star Tribune, so you can expect nothing less than "awesome" from this quintessential local rap group. Adding some extra swagger to the evening are Los Nativos, No Bird Sing, and DJ Ren.

Click HERE for the Facebook event

FRIDAY DECEMBER 16TH

Chuck U T-shirt Launch & Art Party

@ Nomad World Pub
501 Cedar Ave S.
Minneapolis

8 p.m. / 21+ / $5

A night of new art, music and T-shirts awaits you this Friday at the Nomad World Pub! Check out Chuck U's latest creations and do a little holiday shopping for art prints, paintings, drawings and T-shirts--all will be discounted at a classy Christmas prices for one night only. As you browse art and apparel, enjoy some tunes from Crimes, Ecid, Sean Anonymous, The Set, and DJ Greenery. With so much going on, don’t forget to feast your eyes on the big screen, as Sean and Ecid are excited to debut their brand new music videos for you.

Click HERE for the Facebook event

FRIDAY DECEMBER 16TH

BOMP

@ First Ave Main Room
701 First Avenue
Minneapolis

10 p.m. / +18 / $5 w/RSVP or $10 at door

Who could turn down a night of epic/digital DJ distortions and mind-blowing visuals? Get down to business on this fine fall Friday in the First Ave mainroom with The Moongoons, Wzz Wnshp, Plain Ole Bill, and Jimmy 2 Times. Experience sounds that will rock your richters, accompanied with video delights on the big screen. Grab your boys and girls and bust out your best moves at BOMP.

Click HERE to RSVP for reduced admission

SATURDAY DECEMBER 17TH

Moon Glyph Showcase of Radical Acts

@ Yeti Records
3506 Nicollet Ave S
Minneapolis

5pm / All Ages / Free

Locally-based psych imprint Moon Glyph has been making some serious waves in the music scene of late, boasting an impressive cross-section of psychedelic, drone, synth and avant-garde released only on cassette and vinyl. This Saturday, kick your evening off early at Yeti Records, who has has pulled together four diverse and wildly talented bands from the label that represent the top shelf material Moon Glyph has been sharing. Any event that includes Roy Orb, Ghostband, CLAPS and Magic Castles on one bill is not one that you want to skip!

Click HERE for the Facebook event

SATURDAY DECEMBER 17TH

Monster Drawing Rally

@ Midway Contemporary Arts
527 Second Ave. SE
Minneapolis

6 p.m. – 10 p.m. / Free

No, this is not the kind of Monster Rally that involves grotesquely oversized trucks with ill-conceived names, but rather the type that involves egregiously underpriced local art. This annual event gives local art lovers the opportunity to snap up pieces fresh out of an artist’s hands – this year for only $35! Even better, the over 60 artists produce the works live in front of an appreciative audience. It’s the very rare chance to watch some of your favorite artists at work and interact with them throughout the process. The list of participating artists is too long to share here, but you’re sure to recognize many of the names as they represent a who’s who of the local art scene. With all proceeds benefiting the non-profit Midway Contemporary Art gallery, you can feel great about your participation even if you go a little overboard with impulse purchases. Go get yourself some great art, but keep your grubby mitts off our picks!

Click HERE for this art event and more at mplsart.com

SATURDAY DECEMBER 17TH

Entanglement

@ Gallery at Fox Tax
503 1st Ave NE
Minneapolis

6 – 9 p.m. / Free

Don't miss as guest curator Hanna Frick and the gallery at Fox Tax present Entanglement, a group show featuring the freedom, balance and methodology that is the collage artist. Get a jump on local holiday shopping as tonight's exhibit showcases original and donated pieces for under $100. What a steal! Proceeds from the show benefit the Children's Cancer Research Fund, so you can give to charity while you give to your friends and revel in work by Beth Bowman, Allen Brewer, Josie Lewis, Jesse Draxler, Gary Wolf, Hannah Frick and more.

Click HERE for this art event and more at mplsart.com

SATURDAY DECEMBER 17TH

Blue Sky Blackout: Lunar Love Song

@ Cause
3005 Lyndale Ave S
Minneapolis

9 p.m. – 12 a.m. / 21+ / $5

It's been a few years since we've heard the phrase/genre/subtext “rock opera.” It conjures thoughts of The Who's “Tommy” and Freddie Mercury. Tonight, accept a modern version of sci-fi sonic bliss as Blue Sky Blackout presents their very own mini rock opera “Lunar Love Song.” The show features live sets by classic rockers, Get Gone, and indie falsetto engineers, Surgeon's In Heat. Lazers, space shigs and shooting stars not included.

Click HERE FOR the Facebook event

SATURDAY DECEMBER 17TH

Rock the Halls III: A Miracle on 14th Ave.

@ Kitty Cat Klub
315 14th Ave. SE
Minneapolis

8 p.m. – 2a.m. / 21+ / $5

It’s a Christmas Miracle! For the third year in a row, Rock the Halls gives you a reason to dance around in a Santa hat in public with only minimal judgment from your fellow revelers - and with far better music than you’ll find at your office Christmas party. The holiday festivities include sets by Dream Crusher, Elite Gymnastics, Fire in the Northern Firs, Crimes, Hollow Boys, and Carlo Marx of UMAMI. Awesome Misfits / Christmas jingle mash-up band Glen Sansig and the Christfits will strike an appropriately jolly mood while themed visuals get you in the holiday spirit. To top things off a World’s Ugliest Sweater contest features prizes from great local businesses such as Moxie Hair Salon and Yeti Records. Get Rudolph hitched up and have him lead your little sleigh to this miraculous celebration of the season!

Click HERE for the Facebook event

SATURDAY DECEMBER 17TH

Forever Young VFW Basement Holiday Party

@ VFW
2916 Lyndale Ave. S
Minneapolis

8 p.m. / 21+ / $5 Cover $3 with Facebook RSVP

How can you turn down a night of drinking, dress up, and VFW basement dancin’? The answer is simple, you can’t. Dress up in your holiday best and don’t forget to hit the photo booth--this is a night you’ll want to remember. Forever Young is a genius monthly production put together by local favorites Cloud and Snakebite. It’s the only weekend dance party in Uptown, bringing together DJs that deliver the best body bumpin’ beats around. The night is famous for recreating the nostalgic basement dwelling dance parties of your younger years. Remember the sounds of Outkast, Daft Punk, Ace of Base, Justin Timberlake, Missy Elliot, Nelly, TLC, Aaliya and T.A.T.U? Yeah, they will all be there. As you let the music move you, sip yourself silly on a variety of scrumptiously inexpensive drinks: $2 Grain Belt, $3 PBR Tallboys, $3 Well Drinks, $4 Call Drinks.

Click HERE to RSVP on Facebook for a $3 admission

SATURDAY DECEMBER 17TH

Jubilee

@ Secret Location
Minneapolis

9 p.m. to Midnight / Guest List ONLY

It's that time again! l'étoile and Blacklist Vintage invite you to our annual vintage holiday party, Jubilee, held at a secret location this Saturday. This year's theme? Old Hollywood! So bust out you cigarette holders, opera gloves, ascots, and jewels for a charming evening of cocktails and merriment. Player piano Matthew Curney will be keeping the mood festive all night with holiday ivory tinkling, and special guest vocalist Janey Winterbauer (New Standards, Astronaut Wife) will make a sultry cameo performing seasonal classics (and even a duet or two with Matthew). Enjoy complimentary old-timey cocktails courtesy of Phillips Distilling and tasty sweets courtesy of Jaded Pastry all the live long night while mingling with fashionable Twin Citians. This party is our gift to you, our loyal friends and readers, so let's celebrate the holidays in true l'étoile style!

HOW TO GET ON THE LIST: If you haven't yet received an invite, you must RSVP to kate@letoilemagazine.com to secure your spot. Space is limited due to the intimate nature of the space so don't delay!

DON'T KNOW WHAT TO WEAR? No problem. Head to Blacklist Vintage and mention JUBILEE to score a 10% discount on your garb!

Editor in Chief: Kate Iverson // Contributors: Juleana Enright, Kate Iverson, Robyn Lewis, Jahna Peloquin, Stefani Arden, Anthony Enright

The Creative Class: Winter Editorial 2011

2011-12-12T12:23:00.005-05:00

As connoisseurs of the creative, it's a given that l'étoile keep its eye on what's happening with the next generation of artists. We teamed up with guest stylist Steve Kang of St. Paul's BlackBlue boutique to give seven MCAD students studiously stylish looks for season. Expect to see plenty of flannel, wool, denim, and even some silk; classic styles that can translate as both youthful and professional. Enjoy, and learn a bit about these talented young up n' comers along the way.

xo-l'étoile

Open publication - Free publishing - More art school

Weekend What's What 12/8-12/11

2011-12-08T10:52:00.015-05:00

THURSDAY DECEMBER 8TH

Cum on Feel the Noize: A ZZ Top Tribute

@ Club Jager
923 Washington Ave N
Minneapolis

10 p.m. – 2 a.m. / 21+ / no cover

Our favorite guilty pleasure dance night is back with another round of tracks from bands you'd be reluctant to admit you like...unless, of course, someone else admitted it first. From butt rock to metal, hair bands to scare bands, the resident DJs of Cum on Feel the Noize unabashedly get your motor runnin' and your body to the dancefloor. This month's edition is a kudos to the Southern rock dudes whose manly fuzz put the Beard Wars boys' to shame: ZZ Top. Moving a decade's worth of pervs with tracks like “Pearl Necklace,” “Tush” and “LEGS,” not to mention dishing out some important pre-Queer Eye advice (“Sharp Dressed Man”), the “hard rockin' beardos” partied their way into the hearts of America and tonight, the hearts of those at Club Jager. DJ Danielle Morris tackles the decks with kick ass special guest Christy Hunt (Pink Mink, Ouija Radio, Von Bondies) plus l'etoile's own Robyn Lewis slingin' tasty drink specials behind the bar.

Click HERE for the Facebook event

ZZ TOP - Legs from Domenium on Vimeo.

THURSDAY DECEMBER 8TH

Mystery Palace, Me & My Arrow, Brute Heart

@ Turf Club
1601 University Ave
St. Paul

10 p.m. / 21+ / $5

Waiting around for carolers to serenade you this holiday? Don't be silly. Our local bands are much better at delivering divertimentos. Tonight, don't miss live sets from electronic darlings, Mystery Palace; indie live wires, Me and My Arrow; and the dark-wheedling avant rock trio, Brute Heart. Me and My Arrow will be hot off the stage from the Minnesota Beatle Project show at First Ave, so expect a fiery performance.

Click HERE for the Facebook event

FRIDAY DECEMBER 10TH

Little Tragedies Art Opening

@ Air Sweet Air Gallery
262 E 4th St Suite 203
St. Paul

6 – 9 p.m. / free

In his latest series, local artist Alex Kuno takes us even further into his apocalyptic chimera with Little Tragedies, a glimpse into a satirical fairy tale. Veering from innocence and heartache to a tragedy-filled existence in surreal land, Kuno's new work dips the viewer from the sweet to the frightening in just mere strokes. Tonight's opening's first 100 guests receive a special goodie in honor of director John Cassavetes's b-day, Kuno's exhibit, and it being the 344th day of the year. That's right, every day pays. Now, does anyone else have the Bee Gee's “Tragedy” stuck in their head?

Click HERE for the Facebook event

FRIDAY DECEMBER 9TH

Sticks / Stones: New Paintings by Ruben Nusz

@ Thomas Barry Fine Arts
900 6th Ave. SE
Minneapolis

6 p.m. – 9 p.m. / Free

Local artist Ruben Nusz explores the potential for optical illusion, subterfuge and deception in a series of new paintings that will leave you shaking your head and wondering how your eyes could have so thoroughly deceived you. His new works fall into two categories; the first consists of geometric stick paintings adorned with trompe l’oeil frames and then further augmented with acrylic to create an alternate version of reality only possible in the painting. The second set - dubbed by the artist "Stone Paintings" - are seemingly random but actually quite nuanced free-form paint splotches manipulated using light and shadow so they appear to float outside the plane of the canvas. These beautiful and mysterious works are definitely worth seeing in person!

Click HERE for this art event and more at mplsart.com

FRIDAY DECEMBER 9TH

Show & Tell: MCAD MFA Open Studio Night

@ Whittier Studios
2385 Harriet Ave.
Minneapolis

6 p.m. – 10 p.m. / Free

Ok, we know it’s not at all like our guilty pleasure Bravo reality show Work of Art, but we can’t help being fascinated by the intrigue of the fine arts studio. We just know all those talented artists in one place makes for an exciting and inspiring environment. If you too crave a sneak peak at artists in their natural habitat, this event is for you. COMPOUND – the art publication that collates the work of past and present MCAD MFA members – hosts a night celebrating current MFA candidates, their art, and the inner workings of the MCAD graduate department. You can peek into the studios, speak with candidates about their process, and enjoy illuminating discussions/entertaining performances while noshing on light fare. Who knows, you may even see the next Sucklord in action. But one thing's for sure: you’ll walk away inspired.

Click HERE for this art event and more at mplsart.com

FRIDAY DECEMBER 9TH

Solid Gold + Polica

@ Turf Club
1601 University Ave
St. Paul

9pm / 21+ / $10 (Sold Out)

Seriously, folks. Polica. They're on fire! And for good reason: they've got the perfect combination of veteran scene players cranking out epic pop gems that consistently leave audience members in awe. All without an album or a guitar. Pretty impressive, we think. And lets not forget about pop mainstays Solid Gold, who headline both Friday and Saturday nights at the Turf. If you've ever been to one of their annual December Turf shows, you know what kind of ridiculous party to expect. Tonight should be no exception.

Click HERE for the Turf site

FRIDAY DECEMBER 9TH

The Idle Hands / BNLX / Bad Spots / Dirty Dancing

@ Hexagon Bar
2600 27th Ave. S
Minneapolis

10 p.m. / 21+ / No Cover

Don't you wish there was a place to see great local music on the cheap when you're low on funds? If only...oh wait, there is. Head to the Hex, where nearly every night of the week you can experience some of the best local bands with a refreshing lack of cover. And this Friday's lineup is particularly stellar. Stylish glam/Brit-pop-influenced indie band The Idle Hands join awesome post-punkers BNLX to make some serious noise. Local trio The Bad Spots and lo-fi Austin-based darkwavers Dirty Dancing round out an ear-blistering night of unruly goodness.

Click HERE for the Hexagon site

FRIDAY DECEMBER 9TH

Extra Large Dance Party w/ Mike 2600 & Paper Tiger

@ First Avenue Record Room
701 First Ave N
Minneapolis

10 p.m. / 18+/ 3$ in advance $5 at the door

The First Ave Record room is famous for intimate artist showdowns and memorable late night dance dates. This Friday, 16-year veteran DJ and l'etoile fave Mike 2600 and Doomtree's Paper Tiger join forces for a hip hop heavy bruhaha. Capping off Friday's all-out/sold-out Doomtree Blowout (night 6 of 7) in the Mainroom, this duo will keep the party poppin' until the curtain's called at 2am. Expect hip hop classics, funk, disco, brand new bangers, dancehall jams, Moohbahton and oh-so much more. As you dance, sip on 2-for-1 well drinks before midnight.

Click HERE for the Facebook event

SATURDAY DECEMBER 10TH

CO Exhibitions’ 2nd Annual WORLD (craft) Fair

@ CO Exhibitions
1101 Stinson Blvd #2
Northeast Minneapolis

10 a.m. – 6 p.m. / Free

This Saturday, browse and buy crafty goodness brought to you by over two dozen local artists. Eat, dance, mingle and be merry, while you shop for the perfect handmade gift for the cool boys n' girls on your holiday list. Sift through an abundance of clothing, jewelry, greeting cards, screen-printed art, and other surprises. Warm up with some hot cocoa and nibble on freshly baked treats from the CO kitchen. Also, experience DJ sets from BRLSQ to round out your shopping fun.

Click HERE for the Facebook event

SATURDAY DECEMBER 10TH

Black Christmas Shopping Soirée & Jubliee Guestlist Signup

@ Blacklist Vintage
25 E. 26th St
Minneapolis

6 p.m. to 9 p.m. / Free

Join Blacklist Vintage and l'étoile for their annual holiday styling event! Find your glam get-up for l'étoile's annual Jubilee, an invite-only vintage holiday party held at a secret location on December 17th (attendees to Black Christmas can sign up to be on the guest list--no purchase necessary). For one night only receive 10% off store-wide and find the perfect duds to pull off this year's "Old Hollywood" theme, or simply find a festive frock or dapper suit coat for your many holiday social engagements! Holiday sweets, champagne, tunes from DJ Zoo Animal, and personal styling help from the Blacklist girls and l'étoile stylists all night long!

Click HERE for the Facebook event

SATURDAY DECEMBER 10TH

Everybody Wins! A Shackway Corporation Retrospective

@ SooVAC
2638 Lyndale Ave. S
Minneapolis

6 p.m. – 9 p.m. / Free

This innovative and humorous exhibition by artist David Sollie presents the historical archives of the morally suspect, often outrageous, and all together fictional Shackway Corporation (allegedly founded by the artist’s Grandfather in 1948). Through product showcases, interactive exhibits and graphic presentations, the artist explores how corporate motivations mirror the best and worst of human impulses. As pervasive as marketing and branding has become in our lives it’s intriguing to see a focused and critical look at how advertising can expose both the predatory and noble sides of human experience. The exhibit has an altruistic side as well, promising visitors who bring a non-perishable food item an original print of "Grandma Shackway’s Finest" soup. What a deal...Everybody Wins!

Click HERE for this art event and more at mplsart.com

SATURDAY DECEMBER 10TH

Doomtree Blowout (Final Night)

@ 1st Ave
7th & 1st Ave
Minneapolis

6 p.m. / $15 / All Ages (Tickets Still Available)

The first six nights? They were just foreplay. After a wild week of pure Doomtree family bliss in the Entry (not to mention the sold-out Mainroom show on Friday), the group convenes for the final night of their residecy, and we expect it will be nothing less than explosive. Get ready to blow your wad as the whole crew pours their hearts and souls all over the stage for the second night in a row. Enjoy a good 3 hours worth of unadulterated bangers with our own modern day Wu-Tang Clan while they rip through all your fave anthems. We're sure no one in this audience will leave disappointed. Bangarang!

Bonus: After parrrttttyyyy....in the Entry with the Hood Internet. 5 bones.

Click HERE for the First Ave site

SATURDAY DECEMBER 10TH

Yuletide Sweater Ball IV

@ 331 Club
331 13th Ave NE
Minneapolis

10 p.m. / 21+ / Free

Come one, come all, dressed in your best Yultide sweater and/or banjo bangin' bluegrass apparel. This Saturday, we celebrate the holidays at the 331 Club in style. Dig out your favorite ugly Christmas sweater (the more flair the better)--it could be a hand me down from your good old granny or possibly a fresh gem rescued from the local thrift store. Either way, it’s time we get into the season, and what better place than the Yuletide Sweater Ball? The event will include live bluegrass from The Pistol Whippin Party Penguins and festive drinks galore. Come admire all the knits as you sip on eggnog and potentially receive the award for sassiest holiday sweater.

Click HERE for the 331 site

SATURDAY DECEMBER 10TH

A Tribute to Dimebag Darrell

@ Triple Rock
629 Cedar Ave
Minneapolis

8 p.m. – 2 a.m. / 18+ / $10

If there's one thing we've learned from the MN Beatles Project, it's that TC bands know how to do one helluva cover and tonight's show is no exception. A kudos rock show to Pantera guitarist, Dimebag Darrell, who died in a tragic club shooting back in '04, tonight's tribute features locals Lesser Known Saint performing your fave epic Pantera tracks, not to mention live sets from Black Garden – a fab combination of Soundgarden and Black Sabbath – with members of Casanatra and Gracepoint; Baglunch, with members of Iron Thrones channeling the Misfits; and We Are Carcass, featuring members of We Are Legion harnessing the talent of England's extreme metal band Carcass. Never underestimate the power of hardcore.

Click HERE for the T-Rock site

SUNDAY DECEMBER 11TH

Gastro Non Grata: Bottles and Boars

@ Triple Rock
629 Cedar Ave
Minneapolis

6 – 10 p.m. / $7 adv, $10 door

Take all the edible risks and amenities of a top-notch restaurant, subtract the pretentiousness, add some local tunes and combine with the low-brow table skills of a glorified kegger and you have the basic concept of the oh-so-popular Gastro Non Grata event. Created by local restaurant aficionados, Gastro Non Grata is the foodie's provocateur. Tonight's gastronaut affair, Bottles and Boar, is a preview into Chef Jack Riebel's endeavor, Butcher and the Boar, and is primed to feature the following courses: green chili soup, wild boar sausage, and a dessert-style grilled cheese. Expect deliciously cold samples from Fulton Beer, plus a live performance from Gabe of 4onthefloor's alt-country side project, Silverback Colony; supergroup improv band, Dreamcrusher (featuring members of Fort Wilson Riot, Hardcore Crayons, Solid Gold, Me and My Arrow and more); and Fortified Five with former members of Knife World. Brush up on beer growing tips and get advice on Xmas ideas for your suds-loving friends from the folks at Northern Brewer, plus enter to claim a tasty carnivore-taunting prize as Clancey's Meat hands out their Dead Meat Door Prize.

Click HERE for the Gastro Non Grata site

Editor in Chief: Kate Iverson // Contributors: Juleana Enright, Kate Iverson, Robyn Lewis, Jahna Peloquin, Stefani Arden, Anthony Enright

Doomtree: The Whole Fucking Week at First Avenue

2011-12-04T19:13:00.004-05:00

by Robyn Lewis

Here it is folks, history in the making. Never before has a single group taken over our beloved club for an entire week. The idea seems outrageous, but we're certain no one other than Doomtree could adequately pull it off. Fresh on the heels of their most cohesive and forward-thinking record to date, the crew is ready to Occupy First Avenue for "one whole fucking week", with each of the group's MCs curating their own night in the Entry. The resulting lineups are as varied and impressive as the Doomtree members themselves - and, at a measly $7 a ticket, you'd be a damn fool not to have snatched up one of each. However, tickets still remain for select nights.

2011 has seen the gang spread its wings wider than ever. With so much lyrical variety in content and style, No Kings grants old and new fans an accessible entry point one of the most creative and inspired collections of artistic voices in modern music. This is not just another rap group, this is hip hop A-game at its finest. Doomtree fever is upon us, and we're INTO IT.

The schedule:

SIMS / Sunday, December 4th / Sold Out

One of the most anticipated nights of #occupyfirstave and one of the first to sell out, Sims kicks the week off with a major bang, recruiting Brother Ali and Astronautalis for a thrilling line up for lucky attendees.

MIKE MICTLAN / Monday, December 5th / A few tickets remain

Leave it to Mictlan to bring not only the most outrageous party, but an eclectic group of the freshest rising talent. Longtime local favorites Kill the Vultures, I Self Devine and Toki Wright will party with F. Stokes, La Manchita and Slapping Purses in a loose, improvisational mike-toss event that'll leave us sore the next day.

DESSA / Tuesday, December 6th / Sold Out

It's been an era since Dessa last played a room this small, and tickets were gone in an instant. Doomtree's vulnerable yet tough-as-nails darling continues to astound old fans while making believers out of new ones. Rounding out the chill, mid-week vibes include Crescent Moon Is In Big Trouble, I, Colossus, and stand-up comic/writer Hannibal Buress.

P.O.S. / Wednesday, December 7th / Sold Out

Wednesday sees Doomtree's proud papa lion center stage, always dazzling us with his technique and lyricism, joined by friends and bandmates Marijuana Deathsquads and Polica in an evening reminiscent of the good old Wednesday nights at Neddies. Epic!

CECIL OTTER / Thursday, December 8th / Sold Out

If the name Cecil Otter conjures an automatic "swoon" for you like it does for us, you won't want to miss this intimate soiree, featuring an out of town guest so secret, we can't even tell you who it is!

BLOWOUT VII / Friday (sold out) & Saturday (tickets available) December 9-10 / 21+ & 18+ / $15.00

The first five nights? They were just foreplay. Get ready to blow your wad as the crew pours their hearts and souls all over the Mainroom stage and then come back for seconds on Saturday for 3 hours of unadulterated bangers as our own modern day Wu-Tang Clan rip through all your fave anthems. We're sure no one in this audience will leave disappointed. Bangarang!

AFTERPARTY / Saturday December 10th / 21+ / $5

Let us all breathe a collective sigh of relief and celebrate with the crew as they complete their very own marathon of sorts, at what has become a Blowout tradition. Ain't no party like the afterparty, and this year the clan recruited the Hood Internet to take us home. It's going to be a truly special week of shows celebrating the success and the talents of our beloved Doomtree, as well as a chance for them to give something back to their dedicated friends and fans who have stuck with them every step of the way.

For more information visit www.doomtree.net or www.first-avenue.com

Weekend What's What 12/1-12/3

2011-12-01T15:23:00.005-05:00

THURSDAY DECEMBER 1ST

How To Cheat

@ Gremlin Theatre
2400 University Ave West
St. Paul

7:30 p.m. – 10:30 p.m. / $20 – $18 fringe button holders – $ half your age under 30

We all know the theater scene here in the Twin Cities is second to none, but it’s especially inspiring to see work from local writers being produced with greater regularity. Local playwright Alan Berks had a Fringe Festival hit a few years back with this title, and an expanded and updated version of the play brings together the talents of a stellar creative team – including local fashion designers Maritza Ramirez and Max Lohrbach – for a night of exhilarating theater. How To Cheat explores themes of infidelity, regret, sex, and the enduring difficulty of creating real connections. Leavened with a sprinkling of comedy and the acting talents of local stars Randy Reyes and Candy Simmons, this limited engagement show (only 9 performances!) is not to be missed. FYI we do not recommend actually cheating, but we do recommend How to Cheat!

Click HERE for the Gremlin site

THURSDAY DECEMBER 1ST

I am MPLS

@ Fine Line Music Cafe
318 N First Ave.
Minneapolis

8 p.m. – 2 a.m. / + 21 / $16 advance $18 door

Don’t you want to give a big sloppy wet kiss to the intense creative energy coursing through the veins of our great city? Ok, that metaphor may have gotten a bit weird, but...of course you do! Since you can’t actually do that, tonight’s blow-out event I Am Minneapolis gives you the chance to celebrate fashion, art, music, performance and the creative people that make the scene here in the cities so exciting. The goal of this variety show is both to highlight local talents and also allow them to interact while showing off their fabulous stuff in novel and original ways. Creator and stylist Sarah Edwards has assembled an extraordinary lineup to provide you with maximum inspiration. Performances include tap phenoms Rhythmic Circus, Minneapolis band Penny Royal, comedy by Andy Erickson, and hip-hop duo Valley Meadows. Models selected from across the Twin Cities creative community will work the runway sporting looks from five great local Boutiques including MartinPatrick3, Parc Boutique, and Atmosphere while DJ Nancy Cheng spins cool tunes. To get even more out of your evening stay for the after party and dance the night with DJ’s Dirty McKenzie & SL8R. Come find even more reasons to love our fair city and show that you too are Minneapolis!

Click HERE for the Facebook event

THURSDAY DECEMBER 1ST

Big Freedia & The Divas + Marijuana Death Squad + Spyder Baybie Raw Dog & 2% Muck

@ Turf Club
University & Snelling
St. Paul

8 p.m. / $12

From her sassy faux hawk motif to the tribal-inspired lavaliere, it's clear to see that Big Freedia, aka the “Queen Diva of Bounce Music,” is the reigning night scenestress of New Orleans. Owning the genre of “sissy bounce,” Big Freedia's beat-tastic, rump-shakin' hits “Gin in My System” and “Azz Everywhere!” are anthems to queer street culture, not to mention hot crowd-charming party starters. Catch the "queen” and her diva crew tonight with Twin Cities' supergroup Marijuana Death Squads and “ironic booty rap duo,” Spyder Baybie Raw Dog & 2% Muck.

Click HERE for the Turf site

FRIDAY DECEMBER 2ND (THROUGH SUNDAY)

Minneapolis Underground Film Festival

@ MCAD
2501 Stevens Ave.
Minneapolis

7 p.m. (additional film times vary) / $9 Ticket - $49 Festival Pass - $15 After Party

The fourth annual MUFF sticks to the goal of presenting works that don’t fit into the Cineplex, and may even be a little too out-there for the standard festival circuit. The often bizarre assortment of over 30 full-length and countless short film offerings are likely to shock, endear, or surprise at every turn. As usual, the festival gives special emphasis to an array of works by local filmmakers who may not have an opportunity to be seen elsewhere. Standouts include the uncanny and hypnotic Invincible Force, a strange – and international award winning - chronicle of director Dan Schneidkraut altering and transforming his own body over the course of a 90 day period – shows Sunday at 2:45 p.m. Also intriguing is the opening night offering 30 Films in 30 Days in which filmmaker Tyler Jensen collaborated with hundreds of local talents to write, shoot and edit an original film every day for a month. Saying the other offerings are eclectic would be grossly understated--there is a bloody supernatural disco film, a documentary on transgender transitioning, and a horror/comedy/existential crisis film about a Muslim Dominatrix possessed by a Jinn! After-parties with complimentary beer and wine and music by awesome DJ’s are planned both Friday and Saturday for some after movie dancin’ and drinkin’. If you’re looking to expand your cinematic horizons or just want to check out what local filmmakers have been up to lately there is something for you to see at MUFF!

Click HERE for the MUFF Website

FRIDAY DECEMBER 2ND

Amelia Biewald: Into The Woods

@ Rosalux Gallery
1400 Van Buren Street NE #195
Minneapolis

7 p.m. – 11 p.m. / Free

Artist Amelia Biewald creates powerfully strange works that explore the idea of nature taken one step beyond what is...natural. These supernatural constructs are unnervingly beautiful reminders that the line between the fantastic and the gruesome is in the eye of the beholder. Using painting, sculpture and installation, the artist sometimes works in traditional mediums but more often transforms decorative arts by layering levels of meaning onto familiar objects. Portions of this show are inspired by Catherine the Great - and the rumor/myth that she died when crushed by an equine lover – mon dieu! Appropriately, the power, beauty and romance of horses and the female form is explored in various ways throughout this work. An obsession with subterranean landscapes and the eerie beauty of the underground world informs another series, including installation works that recreate the organic forms and textures of caves and inhabit them with distinctive creatures. See for yourself what the artist describes as “crypto-equestrian and crypto-vegetal hybrid beings...alluring, yet dangerous”. Um, yes please!

Click HERE for this art event and more at mplsart.com

FRIDAY DECEMBER 2ND

TWO: XYandZ Gallery's 2-Year Anniversary Show

@ XYandZ Gallery
3258 Minnehaha
Minneapolis

7 p.m. to 10 p.m. / Free

Happy Birthday to XYandZ Gallery! With an impressive collection of dual and solo shows under its belt, the South Minneapolis contemporary art gallery is throwing creative caution to the wind by inviting 15 previous exhibitors back, but this time as curators--not artists. Exploring relationships between artists is the basis of this eclectic group show, where each "curator" will be highlighting works by two artists of their choosing: one emerging and one established. The variety of genres and styles from both local and national artists is a bit staggering, so there will certainly be something for art fans of every stripe. See work by international street artist White Cocoa, veteran train writer buZ Blurr, local fave Jennifer Davis, and oh-so-much more. Not to mention, nothing says "I Love You" like buying art for the holidays (hint, hint!).

Click HERE for this art event and more at mplsart.com

FRIDAY DECEMBER 2ND

All the Pretty Horses Album Release Show

@ Triple Rock Social Club
629 Cedar Ave
Minneapolis

9 p.m. / 21+ / $10

Minneapolis glam-punk band, All the Pretty Horses, can boast a 15-year span (that's a longer run than most marriages these days!) and though a few faces have changed in the original line-up, founder Venus DeMars has kept the band true to its power-packing nature. The latest album, the first in 9 years, 10 Bones, hones the talent of Jazz Angel on drums and J Evan LeFreak on bass, creating not only a successful trio, but an experimental ensemble that keeps fans guessing in the most exciting ways. Expect a theatrical performance of delicious new tunes plus sets from flashy one-man-rock-band Hastings 3000 and classic rock throwbacks, The Japhies.

Click HERE for the Facebook event

FRIDAY DECEMBER 2ND

The Great Rock and Roll Swap Meet

@ Hexagon Bar
2600 27th Avenue South
Minneapolis

9 p.m. / Free

A musical garage sale takes place this Friday at the Hexagon Bar in South Minneapolis. While you wheel and deal, local bands Umami, Red Pens, Still Pacific and Bottlekids will bring the noise for your listening pleasure. Arrive at 8 with all your pre-priced goodies to sell and swap, and expect to see clothes, art, jewelry, small furniture, appliances, knick-knacks and small pieces of musical gear. The space is first come first serve, So saddle up, sell your goods, and earn some extra dough for the holidays...oh yeah, and enjoy the show!

Click HERE for the Facebook event

FRIDAY DECEMBER 2ND

DVS1 35th B-Day Party + Hush 15 Year Anniversary

@ Honey
205 E Hennepin Ave
Minneapolis

10 p.m. – 2 a.m. / 21+ / $5

There are few things that have survived in popularity since the '90s, especially in the music department. Case and point: the Macarena. Luckily, one of our own Midwest dance phenomenons is an exception to the 90's curse. Tonight, help two paramount figures in the local electronic scene raise the stakes as internationally renowned (but locally-based!) DJ, DVS1, celebrates his 35th birthday along with that of his company, Hush Sound, which also celebrates an anniversary--15 years to be exact. Prepare your body for an epic 4-hours of electronic mayhem with surprises around every corner. Earplugs not included.

Bonus: Do we smell an after party brewing?

Click HERE for the Facebook page

SATURDAY DECEMBER 3RD

Steve Olson Solo Show

@ Cult Status
2913 Harriet Ave S
Minneapolis

6 – 10 p.m. / Free

Perhaps best-known for his iconic Brickman piece perched above the Loring Corner's office building, local artist Steve Olson has been a fixture in the scene since the early '80s where his underground shows seized the walls of abandoned warehouses, condemned buildings and mid-construction high rises. From canvas paintings to carvings on wood, and sculpture, Olson has been depicting his interpretations of social justice issues, has displayed work at mayor's offices, the State Capitol and local public schools, and has even teamed up with the Family Housing Fund. His latest exhibit not only “marks his foray full circle” back into cutting edge art but showcases an evolved language into diversity. Peep new work as you enjoy live tunes by Dandylion Warpaint.

Click HERE for this art event and more at mplsart.com

SATURDAY DECEMBER 3RD

Electropunk 6 CD Release Show

@ Club Underground
355 Monroe St NE
Minneapolis

7 p.m. / 21+ / $5

Quite the scene has been set for you this Saturday at Club Underground. The Electropunk 6 CD release show is set to sizzle. Prepare yourself for a haven of heartfelt and simultaneously hardcore, bubble gum, jump-around, British inspired, DIY, electropunk heaven. For only $5 catch 10 fancy bands on 2 separate stages. The side stage lineup includes: OneNeoFon, Albuterol, Avenpitch, Thosquanta, Kether. And on the main stage: The Night, AslOf, Thought Thieves, OBCT, and The Blacklight. There will also be an ongoing POP INC performance and art installation film beginning at 11. Grab your friends and come celebrate this one-of-a-kind genre. And don’t forget to browse a few tracks of the CD before the show!

Click HERE to download the album

SATURDAY DECEMBER 3RD

Movember Wrap-up Party

@ The Nomad
501 Cedar Ave S.
Minneapolis

8 p.m. / 21+ / $10 at the door until 11

This Saturday, The Nomad and The Soakers host the Official Movember Gala Party. Everyone knows, Movember + Mo mustaches = Mo money and < problems. In case you’ve been living in a van down by the river, Movember, which takes place all of November, is responsible for the thousands of men’s mustaches that have been popping up mysteriously all over town and around the world. Cheers to all the men that have resembled Colonol Mustard for the past 30 days. We commend you for raising funds and awareness for men’s health, specifically prostate cancer and other cancers. This Saturday, prepare to dance your, or someone else’s ‘stache silly to the musical musings of of DJ Shannon Blowtorch. With every ticket, The Nomad will graciously donate a free can of Foster's Oil. Because after all, what is a stellar ‘stache without some Foster’s can flair.

Click HERE for the Movember site

SATURDAY DECEMBER 3RD

Phantom Tails & Fort Wilson Riot Present: Phantom Riot

@ Triple Rock
629 Cedar Ave
Minneapolis

9 p.m. / 18+ / $5

Side one, revel and turn. Ah yes, double vinyl is still alive. Tonight, don't miss as local bands and long-time touring pals, the Phantom Tails and Fort Wilson Riot, join forces to create a double EP split vinyl showcasing their stellar skills. Take City Pages' Best New Band of '11, Phantom Tails, and add the energetic, pop-fueled duo Fort Wilson Riot and you have an EP that ranges from primally apocalyptic with vintage strides to ominously instrumental. Tonight's EP release features a live performance from special guest and MPLS house legend, Sexbotz. Plus, the first 24 people who snatch up the release get a free PBR. Score and score!

Click HERE for the Triple Rock site

Editor in Chief: Kate Iverson // Contributors: Juleana Enright, Kate Iverson, Robyn Lewis, Jahna Peloquin, Stefani Arden, Anthony Enright

Editorial: "Minnesota Style in a New York Fashion"

2011-11-28T10:00:00.003-05:00

We all know that many of the Twin Cities' brightest head to the bright lights of New York City to make their mark. But we say once a Minnesotan, always a Minnesotan. Minneapolis-via-New York style blog MPLSTYLE.com went out and spotlighted the most stylish of this group of photographers, art directors, stylists, and magazine editors for this editorial, "Minnesota Style in a New York Fashion."

Open publication - Free publishing - More fashion

Weekend What's What 11/25-11/27

2011-11-25T12:48:00.012-05:00

FRIDAY NOVEMBER 25TH

Two Year Anniversary Exhibit + Black Friday Sale

@ XYandZ Gallery
3258 Minnehaha
Minneapolis

9 a.m. – 6 p.m. / Free

You could stand in line for hours at your local Big Box retailer waiting in vain to scoop a deal on this year’s hottest do-dad, but may we suggest you skip that sad scene entirely - no matter how much your Mom begs? Instead take advantage of a rare opportunity to experience Black Friday in the presence of some great works of art. This event presents a one day only opportunity to snap up works from a variety of artists at deep discounts. XYandZ are revisiting some of the best exhibits of their 2 year history and exploring relationships between artists by inviting back more than a dozen former exhibiters to curate this show. Each curator will be highlighting works by two artists, one emerging and one an established name. The variety of genres and styles on offer is a bit staggering, so there will certainly be something for art fans of every stripe. We can’t promise you’ll escape the crowds entirely - TC art lovers are a notoriously enthusiastic bunch - but we do promise you’ll be much happier with your acquisitions. Don’t be an obvious retail victim, be a unique art world hero at this Black Friday sale!

Click HERE for this art event and more at mplsart.com

TWO: XYandZ Gallery 2-Year Anniversary Show Preview & Black Friday Sale // Nov 25 from Permanent Art and Design Group on Vimeo.

FRIDAY NOVEMBER 25TH

RECESS

@ Varsity
1308 4th St SE
Minneapolis

10 p.m. – 2 a.m. / 18+, 21+ to drink / $7, $5 w/ RSVP

We can't think of a better way to work off the Thanksgiving lbs and shake a tryptophan-induced coma than with a major dance workout featuring the sounds of electro, dubstep, “moombahton” and indie dance. Bust it out to dance floor bangers and dirty bass jams from NYC's dubstep breakouts Proper Villians, sexy indie electro from MPLS/Milwaukee's Slim Brit, and some delicious 108 BPM moombahton/reggaeton from Mankato's Digital T. Plus, digitalize your world with video morphing from Playatta Plus, and even get some local Black Friday shopping in as you visit the Anthem Heart pop-up merch table for some prime AH items. We guarantee the DJs will have you sweating out yr mama's homemade gravy.

Click HERE for the Facebook event

FRIDAY NOVEMBER 25TH (THROUGH SUNDAY)

"Color Me Obsessed"

@ Trylon Microcinema
3258 Minnehaha Ave
Minneapolis

Fri & Sat. 7 & 9:30 p.m., Sun 4:30 & 7 p.m. / $8

How do you make a rock-umentary about a famed band without one note of the featured artists' tunes? That's the question Gorman Bechard, director of the recent film, Color Me Obsessed, has been defending since the film's screening. Shot mostly in MN, the documentary is a tribute to adored local rock hounds,The Replacements, featuring interviews from fans, friends, music critics and rock legends – including Grant Hart, Steve Albini, Tom Arnold and Lori Barbero – debating the fate and history of the 'Mats. Dubbed “alternately hysterical and heartbreaking,” the film is like a watching an intense dispute between polemic music geniuses in someone's seedy basement – and we mean that in the best way possible – and what it lacks in video footage and familiar audio, it makes up for with passionate rants and insider deets on the uber influential TC rock band. Saturday's screening features a Q&A session with Sound Unseen producer, Jan Radder. And don't forget to scrounge up your First Ave Replacements Tribute ticket stub (See listing below!) for a complimentary popcorn!

Click HERE for the Trylon site

FRIDAY NOVEMBER 25TH

Replacements Tribute Show

@ First Avenue
701 First Avenue
Minneapolis

7pm / 18+ / $8

Ah, the Replacements. Rock's most famous anti-heroes, and clearly one of the best bands to ever commit words to melody. Lucky for us, each Black Friday, First Avenue immortalizes the legacy of Minnesota's bastard sons with a tribute show of epic proportions. Celebrating the 30th year of classic album Sorry Ma, Forgot to Take Out the Trash are the 4onthefloor, BNLX, Story of the Sea, High on Stress, Night Moves, Black Church Service, guest vocalists from Pink Mink, Chooglin, STNNNG, the Goondas, Phantom Tails, Gospel Gossip, and many more. A mere eight bones goes to benefit the Twin Cities Music Community Trust and gets you admission to both the Mainroom and the Entry, which will be filled with the reinterpreted sounds of a band deeply branded into the souls of so many local music fans and artists. If a loud and uproarious party is what you're looking for tonight, you've found it.

Click HERE for the First Ave site

SATURDAY NOVEMBER 26TH

Night Moves + The Half Hearts + Project Film

@ Nick & Eddie
1612 Harmon Pl
Minneapolis

9 p.m. / 18+ / $5

Hot off their gig opening for the Hold Steady and P.O.S. at Vita.mn's five-year anniversary show last weekend, Picked to Click 2011 honorees Night Moves are headlining a last-minute gig at hipper-than-hip watering hole Nick & Eddie. The local band is poised to break big, with their excellent debut LP on hold awaiting a rumored label deal. Led by the distinctive vocals of John Pellant, the band's groovy, sexy, and slightly psychedelic sound is surprisingly taut and sleek for such a new band. Opening is an acoustic set from Chicago's Project Film and local indie quartet the Half Hearts.

Click here for the Facebook event

SATURDAY NOVEMBER 26TH

Benefit for Brian's Broken Jaw

@ Cause Soundbar & Spirits
3001 Lyndale Ave S
Minneapolis

9 p.m. / 21+ / $10

After Me & My Arrow's Brian McDonough was tragically hit by a hit-and-run car while on his bike last summer and broke his jaw and foot, the musician incurred loads of medical bills he's been struggling to pay off ever since. Fortunately, his friends have put together a benefit show for him this Saturday to help him alleviate some of the financial burden. Me & My Arrow will headline with Minneapolis transplant emcee Astronautalis and "unannounced special guests" opening. (We've heard rumors, and if they're true, believe us- you'll want to be there.)

Click here for the Facebook event

SATURDAY NOVEMBER 26TH

The Honeydogs + Savannah Smith & Ryan Traster EP Release

@ Amsterdam Bar & Hall
6 W 6th St
St. Paul

9 p.m. – 1 a.m. / 21+ / $7 adv, $10 door

Since the venue's recent unearthing, St. Paul's latest music hub, Amsterdam, has brought in a heavy roster of locally stellar bands and musicians, and tonight's line-up is no exception. Catch dual local EP releases featuring nostalgic American folk from songwriter/vagabond, Ryan Traster, and MPLS' jazzy ukulele-slingin' Jack Johnson kindred, Savannah Smith. Plus, don't miss live sets from the talented Levy brothers/St. Paul indie rock/soul veterans, The Honeydogs, and catchy acoustic gems from Martin Devaney and the Flatwheelers.

Click HERE for the Facebook event

SATURDAY NOVEMBER 26TH

Birthday Suits November Residency

@ Grumpy's
1111 Washington Ave S
Minneapolis

10 p.m. - midnight / 21+ / free

Fans of the beloved local noise rock band, the Birthday Suits, have something extra special to be thankful for this month. All throughout November, the Birthday Suits have claimed “residency” at the Downtown Grumpy's. This Saturday night (the final in the series) catch the duo performing explosive, catchy garage rock with a heavy dose of experimental. Expect a chaotic, never monotonous, ever-changing set of fast-paced jams and frenzied guitar/drum combos. Consider it a show of improv for audiophiles.

Click HERE for the Facebook event

SATURDAY NOVEMBER 26TH

Communist Daughter & El Le Faunt

@ The Ritz Theater
345 13th Ave. NE
Minneapolis

7 p.m. – 10 p.m. / All Ages / $10

Folk-rockers Communist Daughter have been all over the place this past year, releasing some of the best music coming out of the local scene while steadily raising their National profile. To celebrate the re-release of their very fine debut album Soundtrack to the End on vinyl, they’re headlining two shows at The Ritz Theater this weekend. The band’s addictive harmonies and impressive guitar work have drawn critical raves, and their recently released EP Something Wicked This Way Comes shows they’re still on a roll. Saturday’s show also features the multi-instrumental St. Paul artist El Le Faunt (aka Thomas Maddux) with his accompanying Traveling Circus Band. El Le Faunt describes his sound as: Old Fashioned Murderous Folk Themed Music, so it should be a fine match to Communist Daughter’s off-kilter musical aesthetic. Head up to Northeast to see these eclectic local artists and let your freak folk flag fly!

Click HERE for the Facebook event

SATURDAY NOVEMBER 26TH

Gospel Gossip Tour Kickoff

@ Hexagon Bar
2600 27th Ave. S.
Minneapolis

10 p.m. – 2 a.m. / +21 / Free

Local indie-pop / shoegaze trio Gospel Gossip kick off an East Coast tour Saturday night at The Hex with like-minded rockers Flavor Crystals. GG are known for bringing blistering energy to their live performances, imbuing even their most sprawling and dreamy songs with an exhilarating kick. Flavor Crystals are about to drop a new LP and we’re excited to get a preview. Minneapolis electro-noise band Dial-up and local rockers Teenage Strangler round out the night’s buffet of local talent. Help send Gospel Gossip off to the wilds of the East Coast in style and rock out to some righteous local tunes!

Click HERE for the Facebook event

Attitude City

@ Club Jager

923 Washington Ave

Minneapolis

10 p.m. / 21+ / Free

One of our favorite monthly dance jams is here! The crate-digging connoisseurs of Attitude City are at it again with their installation of music and mayhem. Join the one and only Jeff Dubois and special guest Mark Warren aka The Discomechanic for a night of delicious dance beats and Clubhouse Jager’s tasty cocktails. Not only is it free, but we guarantee that you’ll have an awesome time mingling and dancing all up on some of Minneapolis’ finest.

Click HERE for the Facebook event

SUNDAY NOVEMBER 27TH

Riot Act Reading Series

@ Nick & Eddie
1612 Harmon Place
Minneapolis

8 p.m. / 21+ / $5

Minneapolis best punk lit reading series returns this Sunday at a new venue. Anything but stuffy, this punchy event brings the raw energy of a rock show to the literary stylings of talented local writers, comedians and performers. This iteration of the poetry/ prose extravaganza features local comedian Mary Mack, designer and artist Joan Vonderbruggen, series founder and punk-poet Paul D. Dickensen, and a host of others. The lively Riot Act events appeal both to traditional literary types and to those of us who prefer a more irreverent and gritty scene. Karaoke will follow the show, so you’ll get your own chance to perform - once you have a few beers in you! You don’t need to be an OWS activist to enjoy this reading of the Riot Act.

Click HERE for the Facebook event

Editor in Chief: Kate Iverson // Contributors: Juleana Enright, Kate Iverson, Robyn Lewis, Jahna Peloquin, Stefani Arden, Anthony Enright