Le'Talk: An Interview with DJ Millions Billions

by Tara Sloane

No doubt the next three weeks will be jam-packed with opportunities to drink, dance, and be holly jolly, but you may as well start the (party) season with a bang: The 37th Annual Shitty Christmas Party! Unlike the exclusive, invite-only parties of yore, the 37th annual is open to one and all – one of many awesome new firsts masterminded by DJs Jonathan Ackerman and Millions Billions. The boys have wrangled together a stellar lineup of local DJs including Soviet Panda, DJ Bach, Tendercakes, Famuel, and more. Long story short: prepare to dance ‘till you can’t feel your feet – and get extra jazzed with our stocking-sized interview with Ned Lampert a.k.a. Millions Billions.

Photo by Erin Nicole Johnson

l'etoile: You’ve promised “nutzo.” But what exactly are partygoers getting themselves into at the 37th Annual Shitty Christmas Party?

Millions Billions: At the 36th Annual Party (last year's) Jonathan Ackerman said to me "This is the craziest party I have ever been to". So, when he and I were approach to throw/promote the 37th, we knew it had to be even better. We'll have a bunch a gifts, decorations, a great line-up of DJs (duh), drink specials and room full of beautiful, interesting people. It's gonna be great.


What’s it like collaborating with pretty much every awesome DJ in town?

It's the best. We've all played together at one point or another, but to have everyone in the same room is a rare treat. Each DJ has their own well-established style, and they bring such a unique crowd. The whole idea for this year's was to get (nearly) everybody together and bask in the warm glow of the Minneapolis dance music scene. It gets me into the holiday spirit just thinking about it.

Will Santa really be in attendance?

Yes. He's been texting me non-stop. "Yo Bro, this year's is poppin off! FTW"

What’s the best Christmas gift you’ve ever received?

My mom bought me a really fantastic squash racquet last year. I was just getting serious about the game, and she took the time to find me the racquet I wanted and a bunch of gear to go along with it. It was super thoughtful.

The shittiest?

Since I am a DJ people are always giving me music or music-related items - not to mention asking me what every song is on the radio. Two years ago someone in my family gave me an Elvis Clock that looked like it belonged in the furniture clearance area at Target - that was probably the worst.

The 37th Annual Shitty Christmas Party happens this Friday, December 10th at the Triple Rock Social Club. 9pm / 21+ / Free. Click HERE for the Facebook invite.

Weekend What's What 3/19-3/23

THE UNHEARD MUSIC

This weekend we celebrate cabin fever! Spring has almost sprung and the fruits of your creative labor are ready to be shown off. With the number of CD release shows on the roster it's proof that winter shut-in syndrome can be channeled into amazing artistic accomplishments. This weekend, whether you're enjoying brand new local music, or the gritty stylings of certain rock n' roll icons, we wish you a sonically charged good time.

xo-l'étoile

Image by Steve Wolf/Drawl Graphics for l'étoile



WEDNESDAY MARCH 19TH

Leslie & The Lys

@ The Entry
701 1st Ave. N
Downtown Mpls

8pm / 21+ / $8

Bust out the bedazzler! Internet phenom and sassy white girl rapper Leslie Hill makes her grand Minneapolis debut tonight at the Entry. This zany performer, well known for her impressive array of bejeweled sweaters, gold lamé unitards, and granny glasses is a charming spectacle to behold. Zibra Zibra and G-Biz open.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE LESLIE & THE LYS SITE



THURSDAY MARCH 20TH

Muja Messiah Record Release Party

@ 7th St. Entry
701 1st Ave. N
Downtown Mpls

8pm / 18+ / $7 (free cd at door)

Local boy made good, Muja Messiah, celebrates the release of his latest album, "Mpls. Massacre, Vol. 1", a saucy mixtape style cd that touches on politics, thuganomics, and even dianetics. Muja Messiah just may be the next big thing so we fully recommend you jump on the bandwagon while there's still room. I-Self Divine, Samahra, Manifest, Maria Isa and more kick things off.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE MUJA MESSIAH MYSPACE



THURSDAY MARCH 20TH

Need It!

@ 414 Soundbar
414 3rd Ave. N
Warehouse District

10pm / 21+ / $5

Join Centrific, Mike G, James Patrick, Jesse Jakob, and Aaron Bliss at the Soundbar tonight for the kick off of NEED IT! This monthly techno party is sure to please with rotating guests, perfect cocktails, and the cool, cool, ambiance of the 414.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE SOUNDBAR SITE



THURSDAY MARCH 20TH

In Bloom: A Spring Fashion Preview

@ Beasthouse
600 Washington Ave. N
North Loop
(Enter around back)

8-11pm / 21+ / Free

Get a sneak peek of spring fashion tonight at the Beasthouse! Featuring a preview of seasonal trends with hair by Moxie, style from Stephanie's Boutique and free consultations on your new look with stylists after the show. Complimentary apps, cocktails, and sweet sounds.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE STEPHANIE'S BOUTIQUE SITE



FRIDAY ART PICK: THE URBANISTA DIARIES

A marketing ploy by Nokia, but cool none the less. The communication giant sent 4 bloggers/photographers on trips around the world armed with the Nokia N82, their latest mobile device that just so happens to be equipped with a 5 megapixel camera and GPS. The travelers documented trips to Singapore, India, Austria, and Finland through the lens of the N82, with very pleasing results.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE URBANISTA DIARIES SITE



FRIDAY MARCH 21ST

Ghost in the Water CD Release Party

@ The Kitty Cat Klub
University & 14th
Dinkytown

9pm / 21+ / $5

Local dream-popsters Ghost in the Water celebrate the release of their new album "Tooth" along with 8-bit friendly friends Unicorn Dream Attack (also releasing an album tonight), and circuit bending maestros Beatrix Jar.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE GHOST IN THE WATER SITE



FRIDAY MARCH 21ST

Honeymoon

@ The VIP Room
701 1st Ave. N
Downtown Mpls

10pm / 18+ / $3 or $10 w/ T-Shirt

This month the Moongoons pull out all the stops with not only OKC's Dance Robots, Dance but also their NYC affiliates, Trash Yourself. In honor of these special guests the suggested dress code is "White Trash", so feel free to bust out that stained Taz shirt with the sleeves cut off and brush up on your bad grammar.

BONUS: Stop into ROBOTlove from 4-6pm today for a special in-store performance from the Moongoons and special guests. Free drinks and prizes abound!

Honeymoon is sponsored by l'étoile magazine & ROBOTlove

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE MOONGOON'S SITE



FRIDAY MARCH 21ST

Walker After Hours: Richard Prince

@ The Walker
1750 Hennepin Ave.
Minneapolis

9pm-Midnight / $35 ($25 Members)

This new exhibition features photographs, paintings, sculptures, and works on paper by controversial appropriation artist Richard Prince. Join the Walker for a swanky preview party tonight featuring cocktails, appetizers from Wolfgang Puck, film screenings, DJ Jason Baker, and local rockers Skoal Kodiak.

CLICK FOR THIS ART EVENT AND MORE AT MPLSART.COM



FRIDAY MARCH 21ST

Quarter Acre Lifestyle CD Release Party

@ The Nomad
501 Cedar Ave.
West Bank

9pm / 21+ / $5

Creative sound manipulators Quarter Acre Lifestyle hit the Nomad tonight in support of the brand-spankin' new release "Blood on the Lawn". Their quirky, soulful sound and strong, slightly synthy vocals are the perfect soundtrack for a long aimless drive on a hot summer night.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE QUARTER ACRE LIFESTYLE SITE



FRIDAY MARCH 21ST

Carole Koster Benefit

@ The Hex
2600 27th Ave.
Minneapolis

8pm / 21+ / Free

Cool bands from all over the cities join forces tonight for a good cause. Local music supporter and mother of four, Carole Koster, was recently diagnosed with Luekemia, and all her rockin' friends have come together to show their love with this killer benefit show at the Hex. Featuring Revolver Modele, We Became Actors, Idle Hands, The Nightinghales, Bella Koshka, and Faux Jean.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE HEXAGON SITE



FRIDAY MARCH 21ST

Warm It Up: A Spring Equinox Event

@ Beasthouse
600 Washington Ave. N
North Loop
(enter around back)

8pm-Midnight / 21+ / Free

Say goodbye to winter with this hot, hot, hot event at the Beasthouse tonight! Enjoy appetizers, drinks, live art, and music by Reggae artists III Kings Sound System.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE III KINGS SOUND SYSTEM MYSPACE



FRIDAY MARCH 21ST

Solid Gold

@ The Fine Line
318 1st Ave. N
Downtown Mpls

8pm / 21+ / $6

Fresh off of SXSW, the boys of Solid Gold headline this rockin' show at the Fine Line tonight. Also featuring the local tuneage of The Guystorm and The Julie Puppets.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE SOLID GOLD MYSPACE



COOL LINK: ART FROM THE YURI ARAJS COLLECTION

One of the Twin Cities most important curators is cleaning out his closet. Yuri Arajs is a longtime art collector and supporter, founding Outsiders and Others Gallery as well as Placement Gallery (among many other things). Follow the link below to snap up deals on original artwork from Yuri's personal collection which includes work from both local and national artists.

To find out more about Yuri click HERE to read a recent Minnesota Monthly article.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR YURI'S ONLINE ART SALE
Art by John Langford



SATURDAY MARCH 22ND

X

@ The Cabooze
917 Cedar Ave. S
West Bank

8pm / 21+ / $22

One of America's punk rock treasures and a band that defined music for certain l'étoile-ites, X, reunites for a whirlwind tour across the U.S. and Minneapolis is lucky enough to be on that itinerary. Join X's original lineup of Exene Cervenka, John Doe, Billy Zoom,and DJ Bonebrake this evening for an epic and memorable rock n' roll ruckus. Skybombers and Chooglin' kick things off.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE X SITE



SATURDAY MARCH 22ND

mnSpin Listening Party

@ The Nomad
501 Cedar Ave.
West Bank

8pm / 21+ / $2

The last round of contest winners for the first mnSpin compilation dazzle tonight at the Nomad. Featuring Alison Rae, The Sexy Bang, and Zhalman Harris, plus DJs playing tunes off the new mnSpin CD.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE MNARTISTS SITE



SATURDAY MARCH 22ND

The Alarmists

@ The Kitty Cat Klub
14th & University
Dinkytown

8pm / 21+

Join local indie-pop darlings The Alarmists along with Speeds the Name and Jenny Dalton for a pleasant evening of catchy hooks and good looks at the Kitty Cat Klub.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE ALARMISTS MYSPACE



SATURDAY MARCH 22ND

Too Much Love

@ 1st Avenue
701 1st Ave.
Downtown Minneapolis

10pm / 18+ / $3 (free w/ college id)

Join Soviet Panda and partner in crime Millions Billions as they burn up the dance floor at this weekly sure bet. Scroll down to download the latest mix from Millions Billions in our "Mixtape Monday" section below.

BONUS: Pop into BLACK in the VIP room for some techno goodness courtesy of Jack Complex and more.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE TOO MUCH LOVE SITE



SATURDAY MARCH 22ND

Birthday Suits, Ouija Radio, & The Dirty Hits

@ Stasiu's
University & Lowry
Northeast Mpls

9pm / 21+ / $6

No shortage of sonic fury at Stasiu's place tonight with heavy hitters Birthday Suits, Ouija Radio, and the Dirty Hits. Pop into the parlor for DJ Christy's Dance Party & Twister Extravaganza with Ian from Drinking with Ian.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE STASIU'S PLACE MYSPACE



SATURDAY MARCH 22ND

Stilettos & Straps

@ The Bedlam Theater
1501 S. 6th St.
West Bank

10:30pm / 21+ / $8

The Bedlam debuts it's brassy new cabaret act, Stilettos & Straps, a Vaudeville inspired late night party featuring slam poets, singers, dancers, musicians, and more.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE BEDLAM SITE



SUNDAY MUSIC PICK: YELLE

Yes, we've written up naughty French electro-pop babe Yelle before, but considering her album "Pop Up" is finally slated for official U.S. release on Astrelwerks as of April 1st, we thought we'd celebrate with her new video for an old (but still bangin') tune.




SUNDAY MARCH 23RD

March Fest

@ The Belfry Center
3753 Bloomington Ave.
Minneapolis

2pm-10pm / $3-$5 Donation

Make your Sunday a punk rock one at the Belfry with a thrashy lineup featuring Myiasis, Jonny's Got a Raygun, Lost Apparitions (IA) and many, many more.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE BELFRY MYSPACE



MIXTAPE MONDAY: MILLIONS BILLIONS

Millz Billz keeps it killer with this SERIOUSLY hot new mix, which just so happens to coincide with his appearance at Too Much Love this Saturday (the 22nd, that is) alongside resident DJ Soviet Panda.

CLICK THE IMAGE TO DOWNLOAD THE FREE MIX



COOL OPPORTUNITIES

Five to Nine Magazine

DEADLINE SUNDAY, MARCH 23RD

Online art and design mag Five to Nine is now taking submissions for their next issue, curated by artist Karl Frankowski. The theme? Living Rooms & Basements, an issue exploring the age old lamentations that “things were better before”. Submit NOW - the deadline is this Sunday!

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR MORE INFORMATION
Image from the last issue of Five to Nine

Weekend What's What 12/13-12/17

JINGLE BELL ROCK

With all the rockin' going on this weekend we're sure you'll be out making memories and abusing mistletoe. We say go for it! This is the perfect time to flirt it up with your secret crush or create an epic evening with your steady sweetheart. Resist all temptation to stay home - this weekend is full of potential surprises!

Still shopping for that special someone? Check out our 2007 Holiday Gift Guide, brimming with cool gift ideas, crafts, and music as well as special l'étoile discounts at area shops and restaurants!

xo-l'étoile

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE!



THURSDAY DECEMBER 13TH (THROUGH NEW YEARS EVE)

Nutcracker?! (Not So) Suite

@ The Ritz
13th & University
Northeast Mpls

Thursdays-Saturdays / 8pm / $27
Sundays / 2pm / $23

The quirky cool dance troupe, Ballet of the Dolls, is back at the Ritz for the second year in a row with their raucous rendition of the Nutcracker.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE BALLET OF THE DOLLS SITE



THURSDAY DECEMBER 13TH

Disco Party

@ The Kitty Cat Klub
14th & University
Dinkytown

10pm / 21+ / Free

It's an all disco dance party tonight at the Kitty Cat Klub! Join Jonathan Ackerman, Oddiofile and Midnight Energy as they spin rare and sexy disco all night long.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR MORE INFO



FRIDAY ART PICK: SHCH GRAPHICS

Ukranian designer Andrey Ushchenko's collective SHCH Graphics appeals to our prettier sensibilities - the hand-drawn typography and fluid illustration style are both delicate and strong. Curling tendrils morph into bold statements, full of fine lines and flourish. A multi-talented group, SHCH also dabbles in branding, photography, and more.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE SHCH GRAPHICS SITE



FRIDAY DECEMBER 14TH (THROUGH SUNDAY)

Belfry Winter Market

@ The Belfry Center
3753 Bloomington Ave. S
Minneapolis

Friday 8pm-Midnight
Saturday 10am-6pm
Sunday Noon-6pm

All events are free.

This is not your momma's craft sale! The most DIY of punky artisians come out of the woodwork to participate in the Belfry's Winter Market. The South Minneapolis collectively run social space regularly hosts art, music and educational events thoughout the year. This weekend's festivities not only include cool handmade merch, but also live music Friday night from Dreamland Faces, The Floorbirds, and Lady Franklin plus food, drink, and roaming musicians all weekend long.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE BELFRY MYSPACE



FRIDAY DECEMBER 14TH

Doomtree Blowout

@ 1st Avenue
701 1st Ave. N
Downtown Mpls

8pm / 18+ / $12

The Twin Cities hip hop darlings return to their roots at First Ave tonight for the 3rd Annual Doomtree Blowout. One of the most heralded crews in the Midwest, Doomtree's collective members always bring mad jams the right way. Look forward to getting your hands on brand spankin' new False Hopes releases from both Doomtree and Paper Tiger.

TIP: Buy your tickets in advance - this will sell out!

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE DOOMTREE SITE



FRIDAY DECEMBER 14TH

P?M & Cadillac Kolstad

@ Big V's
University & Snelling
St.Paul

9pm / 21+ / $5

Get your bluegrass on tonight at Big V's with locals P?M, Cadillac Kolstad and the Flats, The Forest, and A Paper Cup Band.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE BIG V'S SITE



FRIDAY DECEMBER 14TH (THROUGH SATURDAY)

Andrew Bird

@ The Guthrie
818 S. 2nd St.
Minneapolis

7:30pm / $29.50

Violinist and songwriter Andrew Bird returns to the Twin Cities for a double header at the Guthrie Theater. Accompanied by Martin Dosh, Bird reconstructs, loops, and improvises - creating something rhythmic and fresh that will surely not disappoint.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE GUTHRIE SITE



COOL LINK: INDIGEST MAGAZINE

When a group of renegade writers and artists spark up a collaboration you never know what to expect. Lots of talk and no action, or something unexpected and fantastic? With Indigest Magazine, these four local art-players hit the mark. Editors David Doody, Dustin Nelson, Jesse Sawyer and Chris Koza have wrangled an impressive number of contributors. Local and international writers, musicians, poets, photographers, and artists come together to create a virtual playground that will feed your mind.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE INDIGEST SITE
"Death of a Salesman" by Rachel De Joode



SATURDAY DECEMBER 15TH

Who Made Who Grand Opening

@ Who Made Who
158 13th Ave. NE
Northeast Mpls

Noon-6pm / Free

Rockstar screenprint artists Amy Jo Hendrickson, Dale Flattum (Tooth), and Lonny Unitus make the leap from studio to storefront this weekend with the grand opening of their newly aquired digs in Northeast. Who Made Who will sell limited edition hand screenprinted artwork and will house an on-site printshop and studio. Stop in to finish up your holiday art shopping or visit their Etsy store online - opening the same day!

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE WHO MADE WHO ETSY SITE
screenprinted poster by Miss Amy Jo



SATURDAY DECEMBER 15TH

Big Ups to Hiccups / Head to Toe Winter Formal

@ Head to Toe Salon & Boutique
2445 Nicollet Ave. S
Minneapolis

7-10pm / Free

The cool kitties over at Head to Toe have put together a holiday party to beat the freeze. Not only will the sensational artwork of Isaac Arvold be on display, but a number of additional cutenesses await you. Enjoy a fashion show, artist makeovers, a gift exchange (bring a wrapped fashion item and leave with something new!), photo booth, booze, food, and dance floor fodder from the likes of Mike the 2600 King and Buck Kac. What's not to love?

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE HEAD TO TOE SITE



SATURDAY DECEMBER 15TH

Mini-Art Holiday Party

@ Fox Tax Gallery
503 1st Ave NE
Northeast Mpls

5-11pm / Free

If you missed the opening for "These Elves went to Art School", make sure to pop into Fox Tax Gallery tonight for a mini-art bonus round. There are still plenty of amazing 4x4 inch works available for stuffing in your favorite art lover's stocking!

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE FOX TAX SITE
Art by Tom Stack



SATURDAY DECEMBER 15TH

America's Funniest Home Videos

@ Clubhouse Jager
923 Washington Ave.
North Loop

10pm / 21+ / Free

No, not the show! New DJ collab "Americas Funniest Home Videos" includes certain people you might just recognize, but we don't want to give it all away here! One thing we can guarantee: the tunes will be bangin'.

BONUS: TML will be burning up with Jonathan Ackerman, Scott Butters and Soviet Panda. Hit both parties if you're cool enough!

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE CLUBHOUSE JAGER SITE



SATURDAY DECEMBER 15TH (TECHNICALLY SUNDAY)

Hard Times Cafe Re-Opening

@ Hard Times
1821 Riverside Ave
West Bank

Re-opening: midnight-4am

Regular Hours: 6am-4am Daily

The man can't keep them down! It was sticky there for a minute, but Hard Times Cafe, which has been closed for 3 months longer than anticipated, will re-open tonight at midnight. With the city off their backs you'll be free to once again enjoy greasy vegan and vegetarian delights such as the White Trash Breakfast, the Tempeh Reuben, and the Nacho Haystack. Welcome back Hard Times!

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE HARDTIMES MYSPACE



SUNDAY MUSIC PICK: SUPER JAM ALERT!

Millions Billions is back again with a super-jam-alert-worthy blend of beats. This mix is a super sexy warmer-upper for holidays - booty shake style. Millz Billz aka Ned Lampert also writes totally hip music blog that you need to know about. Check it out HERE.

Upcoming gigs: Kitty Cat Klub - December 22nd

CLICK THE IMAGE TO DOWNLOAD THE FREE MIX



SUNDAY DECEMBER 16TH

Wu Tang Clan

@ First Ave
701 1st Ave. N
Downtown Mpls

8pm / 18+ / $35

If you've ever played "Wu-Tang: Shaolin Style" on the Playstation 1 you can probably appreciate the multimedia dynasty that is the Wu-Tang Clan. With everything from clothing lines to critically acclaimed releases from almost every member of the Clan, Wu-Tang is a driving force in rap music as well as a charismatic spectacle to behold live. Tonight's show is a can't-miss!

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE WU-TANG SITE



MONDAY DECEMBER 17TH

Hot Roxx Merry Hex-mas Party

@ The Hex
2600 27th Ave. S
South Mpls

10pm / Free

To quote his Holy Rexness, "So get on your silk jeans and your space shoes, we've got some sweet, wild, devastating news": This is the last Hot Roxx of 2007! Don't miss this funktastic x-mas edition, replete with Happy Holidays quotes from reincarnated icons and tuneage from the best and the worst of the 70's and beyond.

BONUS: Scroll down to the next post to see photos from the last Hot Roxx!

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE HOT ROXX SITE



MONDAY DECEMBER 17TH

Smiths Night

@ The Kitty Cat Klub
14th & University
Dinkytown

10pm / 21+ / Free

"Take me out tonight
Where there's music and there's people
And they're young and alive
Driving in your car
I never never want to go home
Because I haven't got one
Anymore"

Join Jonathan Ackerman at this charming monthly at the Kitty Cat Klub. All Smiths all the time! We heart it. Really.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE SMITHS NIGHT MYSPACE

Weekend What's What 9/12-9/16

PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT

Prime yourself for next week's all-you-can-consume fashion feast by practicing your stylish moves. From an iconic opening at the Guthrie to the timely, and time sensitive, art sale at the Soap Factory, you'll find just the right amount of polish for next weekend's haute-iness.

xo-l'étoile




LOVE FOR SALE

In conjunction with MNFashion's upcoming fashion weekend, mplsart.com presents "Love's Labourers". A mashup of 6 artists and designers will work together to create one-of-a-kind garments that have creative love smeared, cut, sewn, trampled, painted and bedazzled into them.

Availability of these garments is extremely limited so snap up your pre-purchase ticket for a 1-of-1 Fashion edition at: ROBOTlove, Design Collective, Cliche, or by e-mailing loveslabourers@mplsart.com.

This not to be missed event is free to attend. Tickets to reserve your 1-of-1 fashion: $50, with a portion of the sales going directly to MNfashion.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR MORE INFO



WEDNESDAY SEPTEMBER 12TH

3/3 Wolfpack

@ Acadia Cafe
Franklin & Nicollet
Minneapolis

8pm / Free

Check out the super-fresh drawings by Aaron Anderson, Eric Carlson, and Crystal Quinn at this mid-week art party! Stick around to get on the beat with music from Mean Beep, RobotSkeleton, Rikky Charles and Snakebird/ThePressure.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE ACADIA SITE



WEDNESDAY SEPTEMBER 12TH

Burnin' Up

@ The Dinkytowner
14th & University
Dinkytown

10pm / 21+ / Free

Mike the 2600 King serves up the 80's every Wednesday at the Dinkytowner. Not only the perfect excuse to rock some neon, but also to indulge in the "Champagne of Beers" with all you can drink High Life for $7!

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE MIKE 2600 MYSPACE



THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 13TH

Back to School Jam

@ Foundation
10 S. 5th St.
Downtown Mpls

10pm / 18+ / Free

Leave your Trapper Keeper with a kitten on it at home tonight – homework can wait. DJs Bach and Talk Radio are ready to rock you into the next semester with their unbeatably hot jams. $5 kill the keg while supplies last!

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE FOUNDATION SITE



THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 13TH

Grayskul CD Release Party

@ The Entry
7th St. & 1st Ave
Downtown Mpls

9pm / 18+ / $8 adv $10 door

Seasoned rap veterans Grayskul bust out with their first Rhymesayers Entertainment release! Having already worked and toured with the industry's luminaries, this trio of hip-hop superheroes is already on their way.

A bonus for our northern hip-shakers: Grayskul plays Duluth's Pizza Luce Friday and Saturday!

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE GRAYSKUL MYSPACE



FRIDAY ART PICK: PARRA

Parra, a self taught typographer and graphic artist, is one of Amsterdam's brightest underground art stars. Not only have his bold illustrations attracted the attention of galleries all over the world, but his equally edgy clothing line, Rockwell, is a blazing hot commodity!

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE PARRA SITE



FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 14TH

Obsessive Compulsive Drawing

@ Placement Gallery
509 1st Ave. NE
Minneapolis

7-10pm / Free

Curator Yuri Arjas is back with another eclectic exhibition at his floating art gallery - this time featuring work by artists Ben Boylan, John Fleischer, Melissa Gahagan, David Gaul, and Nick Howard.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE PLACEMENT GALLERY SITE



FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 14TH

Graphic Reality

@ Highpoint Printmaking
2638 Lyndale Ave. S
Uptown Mpls

Opening Reception 6:30-9pm / Free

Make the trip to Highpoint tonight to experience this traveling exhibit of prints by eleven young Mexican artists. Familiar print forms such as lithographs and screenprints share space with innovative hybrids of printmaking, street art, skate culture, and animation.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE HIGHPOINT SITE



FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 14TH

Convergence

@ Foundation
10 S. 5th St.
Downtown Mpls

10pm / 21+ / $6 * (see below)

Where's the dance party this Friday night you ask? Well, it's obviously here. Jon Hester brings it back around to the Foundation for an evening of bangin' techno and dancefloor burners. Featuring the antics of Mike G, Brian Thomas, James Patrick, and Jon Hester, with photography by Joceyln Chase on display.

* Donald Glaude is in the Mainroom tonight so to avoid the $13 cover e-mail to the address on the flyer below to get the special $6 rate!

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE FOUNDATION SITE



FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 14TH (THROUGH SATURDAY)

Soap Factory's $99 Sale

@ The Soap Factory
519 2nd St. SE
Minneapolis

FRIDAY: 7-10pm Pre-Sale / $35
SATURDAY: 9am-Noon / Free

Get ready to fight it out in the name of art! The Soap Factory's annual $99 sale is here again! Over 200 unidentified 5x7 works by famous and not-so-famous-yet artists go up for cheap grabs Friday night ($35 Pre-Sale Tickets) and Saturday morning (Free), with proceeds going to benefit the Soap Factory. Trust us, you'll need your running shoes and possibly a helmet - we hear things get fierce!

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE SOAP FACTORY SITE



FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 14TH

Jane Eyre Opening Night

@ The Guthrie
818 S. 2nd Ave.
Downtown Mpls

7:30 / $24-$69 (runs through Nov. 10th)

Charlotte Brontë's beloved tale comes to life at the Guthrie. Jane Eyre is the dark love story between a plain young woman and her older, secretive employer.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE GUTHRIE SITE



FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 14TH (THROUGH SUNDAY)

Cryptonic Circus of Terror

@ The Ramada
41 N. 10th Street
Downtown Mpls

Times Vary / From $20

Experience a slew of classic horror flicks, FX makeup workshops and a scary number of horror-show actors and creepy special guests - including the one and only Lloyd Kaufman of Troma Films!

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE CRYPTICON SITE



FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 14TH (THROUGH SATURDAY)

Elvis Costello

@ Orchestra Hall
1111 Nicollet Mall
Downtown Mpls

8pm / $35-$77

Rock legend Elvis Costello joins forces with the Minnesota Orchestra this weekend for a double helping of music at it's finest. Described as everything from punk to country, Costello's soulful sound is an eclectic barrage of musical history not to be missed live.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE ORCHESTRA HALL SITE



COOL LINK: BETTER LIVING THROUGH DESIGN

If Ikea is your hub for all things modern and cool, think again. Better Living Through Design takes a step out of Scandinavia with scores of rather reasonably priced rarities. Find futuristic furnishings, elegantly contemporary accessories and even avant-garde pet supplies.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE BLTD SITE



SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 15TH

The Get Up!

@ Foundation (Deep Lounge)
10 S. 5th St.
Downtown Mpls

Get up and get DOWN - the boys have taken over Foundation's Deep Lounge for a new weekly party, and we can't wait to check it out! Join Mike Cina, Mike 2600, Most Jef, and Benny Lojack for the official kick-off of this night of truly funky breaks, soul, disco and lost gems.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE GET UP MYSPACE



SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 15TH

Vampire Hands CD Release

@ Big V's
University & Snelling
Midway St.Paul

9pm / 21+ / $5

See 'em off in style! Vampire Hands kick starts their U.S. tour tonight at Big V's. Get your socks rocked off by the Hands, with help from a supporting cast of STNNNG, Gay Beast, Daughters of the Sun and DJ Lord Topia.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE VAMPIRE HANDS MYSPACE



SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 15TH

Fragonard's Shoe

@ Chambers Burnet Gallery
901 Hennepin Ave.
Downtown Mpls

11am-9pm Daily / Free

Artist Jude Tallichet was inspired by a pink shoe. A whole show based around a shoe you ask? Well, Tallichet was so taken with 16th century French artist Jean-Honore Fragonard's sensual symbolism in the painting "The Swing" that it motivated his current collection of mundane objects that take on a greater significance and function.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE CHAMBERS SITE



SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 15TH

Girls on Film

@ Secret Location (Check site day-of for info)
Minneapolis

10pm / 18+ / $10

Get wild with super sexy party rockers, Superstars of Love, as they headline this ultra-cool all-night dance off! 2 rooms of tunage and amazing visuals await! DJs such as Dustin Zahn, Centrific, Naughty Wood and more will flip mad wax for your grooving pleasure.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE KODE SITE



SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 15TH

Bryant Lake Bowl Block Party

@ Bryant & Lake
Uptown Mpls

5pm-10:30pm / Free

The crew at the BLB is back again with yet another rockin' block party! Tunes by The Truant Lovers, Black Blondie, All the Pretty Horses, Zibra Zibra and Heiruspecs, not to mention food, brews, a flea market, human bowling (yes, human bowling) and much more.

CLICK BLACK BLONDIE FOR THE BLB SITE



SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 15TH

Jew Years Eve

@ The Kitty Cat Klub
315 14th St. SE
Dinkytown

Oi Vey! This second annual alternative Rosh Hashanah celebration will feature a healthy lineup of nice Jewish boys such as Ari Herstand, Dan Israel, DJ Applejews and many more. Mingle with singles and enjoy the cute ambiance of the Kitty Cat on this lovely Jew Years Eve.

CLICK ARI HERSTAND FOR THE KITTY CAT KLUB SITE



SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 15TH

Too Much Love 1 Year Anniversary Party

@ First Avenue
1st Ave & 7th St
Downtown Mpls

10pm / 18+ / $3 or Free w/ College ID

We can't believe it's been an entire year since Soviet Panda brought his mad jams to the masses at First Ave! This Saturday stop by and pay homage this awesome dance night and the hot, hot DJs that make it happen. The original TML line up of Soviet Panda, DJ Bach, Jonathan Ackerman and Scott Butters is back for this anniversary bash.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE TOO MUCH LOVE MYSPACE



SUNDAY MUSIC PICK: MILLIONS BILLIONS

The sickest, slickest sounds around happen to be right in our own backyard! Local beathead Ned Lampert aka Millions Billions has a funky new mix that will make you want to immediately change into your dance pants. We once saw Ned throw down a super-hot Justice track at a stuffy silent auction, and fell in love immediately. This FREE, downloadable mix is the perfect soundtrack to your after-party!

Bonus: Catch Millions Billions every Tuesday at the Caterpillar Lounge along with a rotating lineup of local faves such as Soviet Panda, Mike 2600, Jonathan Ackerman and more!

Bonus 2: Ned has a cool blog - check it HERE

CLICK THE IMAGE TO DOWNLOAD THE MIX



SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 16TH

MSP Music Expo 4th Anniversary Show

@ Four Points Sheraton
1330 Industrial Blvd
Minneapolis

10am-4pm / $3

If your looking for the weirdest of the weird, then you've come to the right place. MSP Music Expo is back again with rare, impossible to find vinyl. Music to eat Pizza by? You've gotta love it.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR THE MSP EXPO SITE



MONDAY SEPTEMBER 17TH

Hot Roxx

@ The Hex
2700 26th Ave. S
South Minneapolis

10pm-2am / 21+ / Free

The best and the worst of the 70s and beyond is what you'll get tonight at the Hex! Macku$ and Jen welcome special guest DJ, Colin Vampire, on their quest to bring back the bellbottom.

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR HOT ROXX SITE



COOL OPPORTUNITIES

Altered Esthetics Featured Artist Contest

Deadline September 15th!

In the past four years Altered Esthetics has hosted over 20 excellent international themed group exhibitions. You can become a part of this tremendous organization and receive publicity for your work by becoming a featured artist in 2008!

Featured Artists will receive a wide range of prizes including:

-Their artwork featured on the postcard, brochure, press release and website for the show

-Their artwork featured in the AE 2008 Exhibition Calendar

-Featured placement of their artwork during the brick-and-mortar exhibit and more!

CLICK THE IMAGE FOR SUBMISSION GUIDELINES




If you would like your event, link, or opportunity to be featured in l'étoile magazine's WEEKEND WHAT'S WHAT please email info and image BY SUNDAY NIGHT to kate@letoilemagazine.com for consideration.