Weekend What's What 9/15-9/17

THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 15TH

Fireside Lyrics in a Bulletproof Vest

@ MIA
2400 Third Ave S
Minneapolis

7-10 p.m. / free

Tonight, catch an open art discussion in response to the MIA's current multiple-media exhibition, “Finally, We Are All Young Again,” featuring new work by Adam Caillier and Micheal Mott, and “Movie” by Scott Nedrelow. On hand will be MAEP special guests, John Provo, intellectual property attorney and Riot Act Reading Series veteran poet, Paul Dickinson, primed to share their professional and artistic opinions. Plus, don't miss a brand new poem from Dickinson, “Fireside Lyrics in a Bulletproof Vest,” inspired by the show and including – but not limited to – word slings about cars, switchblades, high heels and other “fine literary devices.” Share your thoughts and bask in artsy convo.

Click HERE for the Facebook event

Work by Adam Caillier & Michael Mott:

THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 15TH

The 9/16's

@ 331 Club
331 13th Ave NE
Minneapolis

9 p.m. / 21+ / Free

Now this is what we call a super group, even if they only get together to play but once a year. Five birthdays will be rung in at Midnight tonight as the 9/16's wrap up a smokin' set of some of their collectively favorite cover songs. The celebratory annual jam sesh features birthday boys (and girl) Jeremy Ylvisaker (Alpha Consumer, Dosh), JG Everest,(The Sensational Joint Chiefs, Dosh) Matt Darling (Honeydogs), Trent Norton (Honeydogs), and vocalist Janey Winterbauer (Astronaut Wife, New Standards). "The birthright band" plays one set, once a year, so you best not miss out. Also featuring sets from Walker Fields, Martin Devaney, and Jack Klatt.

Click HERE for the Facebook event


THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 15TH

Metronome

@ Loring Pasta Bar
327 14th Ave. SE
Minneapolis

7 p.m. to close / 18 + / $5 or $3 w/ student ID

The party peeps at Anthem Heart know how to throw down, that's one thing we know for sure, and tonight's inaugural edition of METRONOME at the Loring Pasta Bar is absolutely no exception. This new weekly (yes, weekly!) dance jam hosted by the AH crew promises to bring only the finest of beatslingers to the ears and feet of the 18+ crowd (here's lookin' at you, college freshman). Tonight's kick off features sassy red-headed wax flipper, Babycakes (Monsterbrüsten, Tendercakes) and resident DJs (and minds behind the Varsity's popular Recess dance night) Ken Hannigan and Conrad Leber. The night begins with an early "dinner appropriate" set at 7pm, complete with a live saxophonist, and ramps up after 10pm with the epic dance firestorm that you've come to expect from Anthem Heart and friends.

BONUS: $3.50 Red Bull Vodkas and $3 Lemon Drop shots!

Click HERE to RSVP for $1 admission (good through Thursday afternoon)



THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 15TH

Project Runway Weekly Screenings

@ Thom Pham's Wondrous Azian Kitchen
in the Caterpillar Lounge
533 Hennepin Ave S
Minneapolis

8 p.m. / Free

Join l'etoile and Thom Pham's Wondrous Azian Kitchen each Thursday as we host weekly 8 p.m. screenings of Project Runway Season 9 in the Caterpillar Lounge. This season features one of our very own: talented local designer Danielle Everine! Despite Danielle was (unjustly!) 'aufed half-way through, we'll still be there, sipping stylish drink specials (including the $6 special "Everine Fizz") and noshing upon Pham's delectable bar menu. Danielle herself, as well as season six contestant Christopher Straub, plan to flatter us with appearances from time to time as well, so bring your autograph books!

Click HERE for the Facebook event



FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 16TH

Spaces Between

@ The Textile Center
3000 University Ave SE
Minneapolis

6 p.m. to 8 p.m. / Free

The Textile Center’s annual exhibition showcasing Minnesota’s top emerging fiber artists highlights the latest work by this year's four recipients of the prestigious Jerome Fiber Artists Project Grant. On display will be the eye-popping, colorful knitwear of longtime local designer and l'etoile favorite Annie Larson, who will give her knits the cashmere treatment in the designer’s first foray into luxury yarn. While you won't be able to purchase Annie's pieces on-site, be sure to check out her e-shop at www.ALLknitwear.com. Also represented are sculptor Kim Matthews, jeweler Brenda Brousseau, and mixed media artist Kristina Fjellman.

Click HERE for the Textile Center site



FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 16TH (THROUGH SATURDAY)

Delightful 3: A Pop-Up Gallery

@ The Historic Minnesota Building
46 4th St E, Street Level
St. Paul

Friday: 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. (Reception 6 to 9 p.m.); Sat 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. / Free

This weekend, get yer art-loving buns over to St. Paul for a rare, one-weekend-only pop-up gallery featuring a collaboration between two local lovelies, Amy Rice and Jennifer Davis. Peep vibrant stencil prints and paintings that range from nostalgic and innocent to whimsical and enigmatic, large-scale and small, on wood and paper all displayed on the gorgeous art deco/mod walls of the Historic Minnesota Building. Don't miss the public reception from 6-9 on Friday. Prepare to be beguiled!

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


FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 17TH

Nordeast Music Showcase

@ Ritz Theater
345 13th Ave NE
Minneapolis

8 p.m. to Midnight (Friday and Saturday) / $10

Music is alive and well in ye olde Northeast Minneapolis, and this weekend the Ritz Theater proves it in spades. Head down on Friday or Saturday (or both) nights for a tasty sampling of local talent. Friday night brings sets from Javier & The Innocent Sons, Poverty Hash, The Cactus Blossoms, and Damper Downs, while Saturday rocks our socks with performance from the Mighty Mofos, Crankshaft, L'Assassins, and The Floorshakers. Viva Nordeast!

Click HERE for the Ritz site


FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 16TH

Envision: Artopia

@ Graves 601
601 1st Ave N
5th Floor Ballroom
Minneapolis

9 p.m. / $20 Adv or $25 door

One of the biggest local fashion events of the year is back at the Graves 601 Hotel this weekend. The semi-annual event includes two runway shows featuring Ignite models wearing bold fall fashions from 13 of the Twin Cities’ trendiest designers and boutiques. Take in live painting, art installations, a silent auction, swanky cocktails, glamorous décor, styling by the up-and-coming ladies of Secrets Fashion Agency, and a soundtrack by DJ Jevne, plus food and spirit tastings for the VIP set before the show. Brand new to the event this year will be the vitaminwaterZERO™ Designer Challenge, featuring three Envision veterans: Jenny Carle, Sarah M. Holm and Project Runway alumni Christopher Straub, who will each create one garment inspired by the flavors of vitaminwaterZERO™.

Click HERE for the Envision site



FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 17TH

Sleazy & Easy: September Dance Party

@ Clubhouse Jäger
923 Washington Ave. N
Minneapolis

10 p.m. / 21+ / Free

Fall finds us this weekend with the first chill in the air, which means, it's just about that time for Sleazy (Mark Mallman) & Easy (Angie Heitz) to make you back that thang up on the dance floor and shake it till you're sweaty. This Friday, expect all the sexiest jams to get you in the mood and as always, free jello shots at midnight. We expect to see y'all up in da club sippin' that bubb and getting loose on the floor.

Click HERE for the Facebook event



SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 17TH

OHM at the Loring Kitchen & Bar

@ Loring Kitchen & Bar
1359 Willow St.
Minneapolis

2 p.m. to 2 a.m. / Free

Experience a 12 hour patio bash of bangin’ beats, cheap eats and cocktail treats at the classy and modern Loring Kitchen & Bar. Enjoy local lady legends on the decks all day and night, including Chrystal Mann, Loveless Aphrodite, Miss Mao, Lenka Paris, Monsterbrüsten and AJent O. Come early or crash the party later, either way, there will be happy hour food and drink specials for the endurance.

Click HERE for the Facebook event


SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 17TH

Hold Fast

@ Head to Toe
2445 Nicollet Ave S
Minneapolis

7 p.m. to 11 p.m. / Free

Head to Toe Salon gets a fine art makeover this Saturday with a triple whammy exhibit from portrait artists Luke Tromiczak, Jamie Cook, and Luke Hillestad. Displaying works that call to "endurance in the face of dissolution" this varied yet complimentary trio of artists expose cracks in humanity through their wholly narrative work. See Luke Hillestad's darkly lush oil paintings which call to mind the old masters while still touching on modern themes; peruse figurative painter Luke Tromiczak's emotive (and often uncomfortable) interpretations of American life at its realest; and immerse yourself in Jamie Cook's whimsical visual tales that leave one curious as to the backstory of each character. And after you're done doing all of that, get yourself a new hairdo. It's a win-win, people.

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


SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 17TH

Fashioned: One Becomes Another

@ Anita Sue Kolman Gallery
Northrup King Building
1500 Jackson St. NE
Minneapolis

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

Here's a Project Runway challenge for you: Christopher Straub of season six has created a mini line of flirty little cocktail dresses created from textile-versions of paintings by local artist Patrick Kemal Pryor. He'll be premiering the pieces this Saturday during a 7:30 p.m. fashion presentation at the opening reception of new exhibition Fashioned: One Becomes Another. Also featured in the show are new works by Kate Casanova, who grows mushrooms in unexpected places, and Nancy MacKenzie, who fashions new forms from found materials.

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


SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 17TH

Opera Tasting

@ MN Opera Center

620 N. First St.

Minneapolis

8:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. / $75 ($50 for Tempo members)

There are several things we wouldn't mind pouring out from the heavens: extra soft kittens, manna (we hear it's delicious), beautiful music, chocolate, of course, wine. Tonight, Tempo and the Minnesota Opera comes close to catering to our wishes as they present the Opera Tasting 2011. “Like your Puccini with hints of smoky etherealness, bouquets of strawberry and oak or aromas of earth and tobacco?” If so, Opera Tasting is the affair for you. Pamper yourself with a five course wine tasting courtesy of St. Paul's Solo Vino with pairings from Toast Wine Bar & Cafe and desserts from Perfect Day Cakes as you're serenaded by Minnesota Opera's Resident Artists, swooning your taste buds with “cadenzas, cabalettas, and arias” in an exciting preview of the MN Opera's 2011-2012 season. Don't forget to don your finest frocks! After the Tasting, let Tempo whisk you off to The Loop, the official after-party palace, to indulge in drink specials, live tunes and more. Viva la regale life!

Co-Sponsored by l'etoile, for the third year running!

Click HERE for the MN Opera site


SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 17TH

MCAD: pARTy 125

@ MCAD
2501 Stevens Ave
Minneapolis

6 p.m. to Midnight / $50-$250

What do the Statue of Liberty, Coca-Cola, the tuxedo and Minneapolis' famous art school, MCAD, all have in common? They're all 125 years old. With that kind of mileage under their belts, they ought to deserve your respect. And thankfully that respect translates in the form of a super awesome party. Tonight, help MCAD celebrate 125 years of educating and nurturing young artists as you dine, bid on art and dance the night away. Enjoy complimentary desserts, cocktails from the cash bar, interactive art by MCAD students, tunes and video remix by DJ Spooky, and the premiere of the MCAD student produced film, Shaping the Future: 125 Years of Art & Creation. RSVP ASAP!

Click HERE for the MCAD site


SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 17TH

Sex Ed Rocks: Benefit for the Planned Parenthood Action Fund

@ Hexagon Bar
2600 27th Ave S
Minneapolis

9 p.m. to 2 a.m. / 21+ / Free

Tonight, don't miss the third annual party for sex...er...sex education. Rock out to four awesome local cover bands Six Underground (Mazzy Star/Hope Sandoval covers by members of the Chambermaids, Vampire Hands, Is/Is and Gospel Gossip), Whitney Houston Residual Plan (Dolly Parton covers by members of Bombay Sweets and Vampire Hands), country covers by Meg Ashling and Littlefoot covering Heart, Fleetwood Mac, Roxette and other 70's/80's faves. Plus, DJs Hot Roxx and Double Trouble we be (wo)-manning the decks all night spinning the best tunes written and performed by ladies and – for the daring – try your vocal skills with Karaoke Roulette after midnight to win snazzy prizes. Proceeds from the evening will benefit Planned Parenthood Action Funds, so spend at your little heart's desire.

Click HERE for the Hexagon site

Le'Talk: Mondo Guerra talks "Project Runway" and Saturday's Fashion Face-off

By Jahna Peloquin

Arguably one of the most recognizable contestants in the history of Project Runway, season eight finalist (and fan favorite) Mondo Guerra is touring the country with a series of "fashion face-off" events for Macy's. Before he makes his Twin Cities stop at Macy's Rosedale on Saturday afternoon, he took a few minutes to chat with us over the phone about New York Fashion Week, his personal style tips, adjusting to fame, and what's next for the designer. Watch for Guerra to hit the screen again later this year as a contestant on Project Runway All-Stars.

l’étoile: So you’re flying in to the Twin Cities after spending some time at New York Fashion Week this past week. What did you do while you were out there?

Mondo Guerra: I was in Portland for Fashion’s Night Out, and I flew a red eye overnight to New York for the Project Runway finale show. When I got to the door I didn’t have my credentials and they weren’t going to let me in, but finally one of the producers saw me. I only made it in for the last four shows. I was kind of bummed.

Did you attend any other shows?

No, just the Project Runway finale. I love what I do, but being there can be a little overwhelming. I try to stay away as much as possible. I basically visited with my friends who live in New York and went shopping.

We heard you were at the Project Runway reunion party on Saturday. Was it fun to see everyone together in one room?

Yeah. But it was overwhelming, a lot of people wanting your attention all at once.
Do you stay in touch with other contestants from your season?

I was sharing a room (during the taping of the show) with (season eight contestants) Michael Drummond and Michael Costello, so I’m in touch with both Michaels a lot. We recently became friends with (season eight's) Mila (Hermanovski). But we’re all so busy, it’s hard to keep in touch. Everybody’s doing their thing. But we talk on the phone for 30 minutes every week.

We totally thought you should have won last season. A lot of people thought you were robbed.
I think that everything happens for a reason. and honestly over the past year I've learned a lot about myself, how to deal with business and the exposure, and it’s a lot of adjusting, a lot of getting used to. I believe I got second because I wasn’t ready to win the whole thing.Because even now, being the runner-up, there’s a lot of attention, and I enjoy all my fans and people that support me but it can be a little overwhelming. I don’t want that to translate as me not being ungrateful - I'm very very grateful for everything that’s happened in my life, but I’m still getting used to it. It hasn’t even been a year yet, and a lot has changed. (Right: A look from Guerra's Spring 2011/Project Runway collection.)

You’re in town for Saturday’s fashion face-off. How did you get involved with Macy’s?
They had contacted me last year, and I don’t even remember where my first one was, it was Denver I think. They called me back for the fall, which means I must have done a good job. It was really fun. I actually really enjoy doing them. People that watch the show will go out to them, and the audience is really active.

So you’ll be talking your fashion do’s and don’t's at Saturday’s event. Can you jump the gun and throw out a few right now?

Well I think that in fashion there are always current trends, but being realistic and being a consumer myself, clothes can be really expensive. I think it’s important to go through your closet and see what you have, and see what is going on for each season, and go out and buy the pieces that will work with what you already have. I don’t think you should go out and buy a full outfit, but rather buying investment pieces - a good purse, a good shoe, a new skirt, a new top - you'll want to add some of those trends into your current wardrobe and work with what you have. And you want to continue to have your own point of view as a dresser. I think it’s really important to be dressing to be comfortable in what you’re wearing, because confidence will go further than a $2,000 pair of shoes. I don't really have any don’t's. Except my biggest pet peeve is when people wear pajama bottoms in public, so I guess that's my only don't.

We loved your Fall 2011 collection. Why did you decide to stay true to your point of view, despite the judges’ criticism to be more marketable?

Art is all relative, and I’m an artist. If you see a Keith Haring painting, you know it’s going to be a Keith Haring. If you see an Andy Warhol, you know it's Andy Warhol. If you look at this experience, being a fashion designer as a body of work, as an artist I want to look back and know what I was doing at that point in my life. Over the years, the work will tell my life story. (Left: A look from Guerra's Fall 2011 collection.)

You opted to show at El Paso Fashion Week instead of New York last spring. Why?
I feel that it’s too soon. I think that it’s important for me to always do the best work I can do, and I feel like there’s a lot of pressure in New York. For me, it wasn’t the right time. i was able to show with (season eight contestants) Michael Costello and Christopher Collins, which was really comfortable. I felt in good company, and there wasn’t that feeling of competition. I think that’s the thing I dislike the most about fashion is the feeling of competition. I get tired of having to always have the pressure of doing better than everyone else.

Will this be your first time in Minneapolis?

It will be my first time, I am coming back in the beginning of November to judge the fashion contest at the Fusion+Fashion event.

Right, that's the event that has architects designing fashion?
Exactly. The contact for that show is from Minneapolis, and Denver has something similar. And I've heard that Minneapolis is a great place, so I'm excited. Any recommendations?

Yes! Where to begin? There's a really great modern art museum called the Walker Art Center you should definitely check out, plus it's worth seeing the Guthrie Theater purely for the architecture, and the Weisman Art Museum, which was designed by Frank Gehry. And if you're a music fan, you should go see First Avenue, it's a legendary nightclub where Prince filmed Purple Rain. And really good restaurants everywhere.
Cool, thanks!

What's next for you? Any plans for a Spring 2012 collection?
Yeah, I think things are underway right now. I don’t want to get into any specifics on what and where and how or even the name of the collection or my branding. But I will tell you that I am getting very serious about it. A lot of people are wanting product for me. What a lot of people don’t understand is that production takes a long time to turnover. For my first product to the consumer, I want it to be better than everything I've ever done. I don’t want to drop the ball, after being on Project Runway and getting all that exposure. Beyond that in the past year the thing that has brought me the most joy was speaking on HIV awareness, and taking the responsibility of what unfolded on the show (referencing the revelation he made that he has HIV while on the show). Information on what I’m doing can be found at livingpositivebydesign.com

Weekend What's What 9/8-9/10

GREENERY/SCENERY

A collective whining could be heard throughout the land this week, as students of all ages had to shake their summer sass for a more scholarly demeanor. Despite this unofficial declaration that poor ol' summer is on its deathbed, we still look ahead to the lovely Autumn season in Minnesota, where wools and velvets and cashmere can be factored into flirty Fall fashions. We here at l'étoile are still holding out hope for a bit more summer sun, so whatever you do this weekend--and we've got more than a few good suggestions--take a moment to enjoy the greenery, as it's definitely fleeting.

xo-l'étoile


THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 8TH

Fashion’s Night Out

@ All Over Town

All Ages / Free

Thursday September 8th marks Fashion’s Night Out, an international night of all things chic n' stylish! Kick off NYC Fashion Week Minneapolis-Style with local fashion-forwards and designers at key metro locations. Grab your pals and get glam--a night of fashion, food, music, discounts and giveaways awaits. Peep info on specific events and catch ALL the details via our weekly shopping blog.

Click HERE for FNO events on our shopping blog



THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 8TH

Project Runway Weekly Screenings: Fashion's Night Out Edition

@ Thom Pham's Wondrous Azian Kitchen
in the Caterpillar Lounge
533 Hennepin Ave S
Minneapolis

8 p.m. / Free

Join l'etoile and Thom Pham's Wondrous Azian Kitchen each Thursday as we host weekly 8 p.m. screenings of Project Runway Season 9 in the Caterpillar Lounge! This season features one of our very own: talented local designer Danielle Everine! Despite Danielle was (unjustly!) 'aufed half-way through, we'll still be there, sipping stylish drink specials (including the $6 special "Everine Fizz") and noshing upon Pham's delectable bar menu. Danielle herself, as well as season six contestant Christopher Straub, plan to flatter us with appearances from time to time as well, so bring your autograph books!

FASHION'S NIGHT OUT BONUS: Join in on the fun earlier in the evening at Neiman Marcus on the third floor from 5:30-8pm for a little nosh and to sample Thom Pham's new specialty cocktail, the KAI-tini, from KAI Vodka. The stylish night continues at the Caterpillar Lounge with our weekly screening of Project Runway from 8-9 pm accompanied by informal modeling of fall trends by Neiman Marcus!

Click HERE for the Facebook event



THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 8TH

LOL/OMG Meetup 1-Year Anniversary

@ 331 Club
331 13th Ave NE
Minneapolis

9 p.m. / 21+ / Free

Join our sister blog LOL/OMG for the 1-year anniversary of their monthly social media meetup! LOL/OMG has brought both well-known and up n' coming acts to your eyes and ears at the 331 Club (and formerly at the 501 Club) over the last year and this Thursday we celebrate! Meet your Twitter and Facebook pals IRL, sip some cheap drinks, and rock out to the sounds of two of our favorite cover bands: SPEARZ (Britney Spears covers, featuring members of ZibraZibra, Moonstone, Matt Curney Band, Hot Freaks, The Golden Bubbles) and DARYL CROW (Sheryl Crow covers). Official Twitter Hashtag: #LOLOMG

Click HERE for the Facebook event




FRIDAY ART PICK: GEORGE KUCHAR

What's l'etoile admiring this week?

Dubbed the “Mozart of 8mm,” underground filmmaker George Kuchar is one of the coolest, most influential dudes in indie cinema you've probably never heard of. Busting out over 200 genius low-budget films and short films, George was the epitome of 60's lo-fi, low-budget cinema. Showcasing alongside other “burgeoning” underground film scenesters such as Andy Warhol and Stan Brakhage, Kuchar was a direct inspiration for a generation of “weird” filmmakers including the king of Trash Cinema, John Waters (who routinely credits Kuchar and his frequent collaborator and twin brother, Mike, to his bizarre, raunchy cinematic vision). Sadly, the master of experimental film debauchery passed away from cancer mere days ago. Thankfully though, his once impossible to find films are available to peep in all their glory via YouTube. So pay your respects and be wowed by the work of a truly brilliant and insane filmmaker.

Click HERE to read Kuchar's obit via the New York Times




FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 9TH

Vapor

@ Fox Tax
503 1st Avenue NE
Minneapolis

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

During the 17th century, a style of still life paintings became popular in the Netherlands that sang the conceptual praises of the biblical quote “all is vanity.” Dubbed “vanitas art,” these paintings highlighted the fleeting nature of life using symbolic imagery--hourglasses, watches, skulls, rotting fruit--to emote the viewer on both a visceral and sapient level. Tonight, join Fox Tax as they showcase an exhibit from local artists John Fleischer and Jennifer Nevitt that examines the ephemeral facets of life while paying homage to the framework of the moralistic “vanitas” genre. Peep multi-media artwork including paintings, drawings, sculpture, and sound/video installations from the pair.

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


FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 9TH

"Art-i-Facts" and "Present Tense"

@ MCAD Gallery
2501 Stevens Ave S
Minneapolis

6 p.m. to 8 p.m. / Free

Swing by MCAD gallery tonight for a double header art treat! Delve into the inspiration and legacy behind the renowned art and design college's creative past in Art-i-Facts: An Unconventional History of MCAD. The exhibit will feature over 200 quirky, beautiful, and unexpected "artifacts" submitted by alumni and culled from the college's archives. Also opening this Friday is Present Tense, an examination of the here and now by MCAD faculty--which convienently gives a congratulatory nod to the 125th anniversary of the famed institution (which by the way, will be officially celebrated with a big party next weekend!).

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


FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 9TH (THROUGH SATURDAY)

$99 Sale

@ The Soap Factory
514 2nd St. SE
Minneapolis

7 p.m. / $30 (Morning after sale on Saturday morning / Free)

Ya got ninety-nine problems – but lack of art ‘aint one! The Soap Factory’s annual fundraiser is back, and you want to be there. With Benjamins. This year’s event features a larger format (8”x10”) and an even more exclusive selection of artists, including Alec Soth, Chris Faust, Liz Miller, and Wing Young Huie. All work was donated and all proceeds go to the gallery, giving you even more of an excuse to splurge (but let’s be honest, $99 for an art gem is a steal). Nibble delectable appetizers from Chowgirls and sip refreshments while you peruse the works, which, by the way, are displayed sans artist name to ensure your purchase choices more about the work and less about the name behind it. Can’t make Friday’s event? The Morning-After Sale begins at nine on Saturday, and all remaining works will be sold for $66.

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


FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 9TH

Koo Koo Kanga Roo Release Show

@ Cause
3001 Lyndale Ave S
Minneapolis

9 p.m. to 2 a.m. / 21+ / $5

Forget band self-glorification, the dudes from Koo Koo really just want you to have a killer time, bro. And what better way to make this happen then by providing you with goofy dance floor-busting, sing-a-long-able tunes and an interactive live show with...wait for it...choreographed dance moves. Tonight, don't miss an epically sweaty night as Koo Koo Kanga Roo celebrates the release of their latest “pay what you want” record, Midnight Slushie with a “big kid dance party”. You'll be moving, you'll be grooving, and just like your kindergarten days, you'll probably need to take a nap afterward. Check sets from Lo-Fi High Five, Neil Zumwalde, Seymore Saves the World and, of course, the Koo Koo cuties themselves.

Click HERE for the Facebook event




FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 9TH

EXTRA LARGE feat. Wezz Winship & Baby Cakes

@ The Record Room
First Avenue
701 First Ave N.
Minneapolis

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

Back again with another edition of EXTRA LARGE, Mike 2600’s monthly jam features back-to-back sets filled with hip hop, dancehall disco, funk, electro and classic party bangers. This time around Mike will be out of town so he’s passed the gauntlet onto the talented Mr. Winship (co-creator of Dre Day, Triple Double, Bomp, and co-owner of Burlesque of N.A.) who definitely knows how to deliver some over-the-top bangin’ beats. Also get down to DJ Babycakes, who as half of lady DJ crews Monsterbrüsten and Tendercakes, has been creating chaos all over the city. As you get your groove on, enjoy 2-for-1 well drinks until midnight.

Click HERE for the Facebook event


COOL LINK: AQUARIUM DRUNKARD

What's l'etoile peepin' on the web this week?

The ears behind Aquarium Drunkard are so keen, they’ve spun off a record label and a Friday night show on SIRIUS satellite radio. Run by Justin Gage, the music blog extraordinaire aims to unite the many subsets of contemporary indie, from vintage garage to psych to New Orleans funk to country and everything in between. Featuring MP3s, reviews, sessions, interviews (past ones include Lucinda Williams, DeVotcha, Merle Haggard, and The Walkmen), and hoards of throwbacks, it’s a must blogroll for anyone who likes any sort of music from anywhere at all. Yes, we mean pretty much everybody. Some highlights this week: an MP3 of Nancy Sinatra’s bubblegum cover of the Statier Brothers’ “Flowers on the Wall” and an interview with The Olivia Tremor Control, one of the original three Elephant 6 projects. All in all? A necessary bookmark.

Click HERE for the website


SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 10TH

Lyn-Lake Oktoberfest

@ The Herkimer Pub & Brewery
2922 Lyndale Ave S
Minneapolis

1 p.m.—10 p.m. / All Ages

The time for summer block parties may be over, but that’s not to say that the good people of Minneapolis can’t enjoy a little fall festivities, eh? Bring on the Oktoberfest, we say! This year, the Herkimer is throwing its own outdoor bash to usher in the season change, with live music starting at 1 p.m. by way of E.L.nO., Demographics, Night Moves, The Rope, BloodnStuff, Zebulon Pike, Marijuana Deathsquads, the Hood Internet, and Mystery Palace—-with more to be announced! Additionally, there will be some Live Art by Chuck U, Dillon Bakke, and Kyle Coughlin (Moonguts), who will be working across multiple canvases throughout the evening. And then there’s the silent auction. And the food. And the drinks. It would seem this fest comes just in time to pick up where the State Fair left off, eh?

Bonus: After Party down the street at Cause!

Click HERE for the Facebook event

SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 10TH

Babes in Bikeland

@ Soap Factory
518 Second St SE
Minneapolis

registration 4 p.m., race 6 p.m. / $5 race fee,
$8 pre-reg + shirt, $12 pre-reg + tank top

Listen up, lady cyclists: September is THE month for biking. Why, you may ask? Because soon enough you're going to be desperately piling on layers, basically doing everything short of shearing your pets and wearing their fur to keep warm while biking. That's why you don't wanna miss the 5th annual Babes in Bikeland rally race. Not only is the weather primed for light jacket wearing, but this MPLS event is one of the most all-encompassing group rides of the year, encouraging women, trans bikers and everyone who loves to cycle to a ride d'endurance, 20 miles through the city in a scavenger hunt-esque race. Prizes range from a custom Peacock Groove Frameset or rad vintage bike parts from Sunrise Cyclery, to custom-made back strainless Trash Messenger bags or a Surly Steamroller Frameset. After the race – provided you've saved some leg stamina for dancing – head over to Sister's Camelot (2310 Snelling Ave) for a sick afterparty DJed by Optimus Prime with deliciously cold keg beer from New Belgium. Ladies, start yer pedals.

Bonus: Can't get enough of bikes? Don't miss the Urban Assault Ride, happening on Sunday!

Click HERE for the Babes in Bikeland site


SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 10TH

Postracializationalism: Work by Nate Young

@ XYandZ Gallery
3258 Minnehaha Ave S
Minneapolis

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

In his latest work, St. Paul-based artist Nate Young takes a provocative jab at pop culture icons, celebs and pop stars by pairing carbon copy drawings of the famed subjects next to California license plates. The result is an exhibit where specific language and image choices form both subtle and exposing relationships. Expect Michael Jackson's mug next to a suggestive driver's plate with the acronym “4PRV013” and other illusively direct variables. Saturday's opening reception features a special performance by Young and local poet Chaun Webster as well as projection installation.

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


SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 10TH

"Hot 3-Way Action" & "Jet-setter Hideaways"

@ Soo Visual Arts Center
2638 Lyndale Ave S
Minneapolis

6 p.m. to 11 p.m. / Free

Hey, pull your pants back up! Tonight's 3-way art show at the Soo isn't about comprimising positions, it's about creative collaboration. Respected local artists Scott Stulen, Bruce Tapola, and Erik Ullanderson meld their powers for a non-traditional group show that evolves through process, success, and failure as works are manipulated through the run of the exhibit. In the front gallery, painter Melissa Loop depicts society’s constant search for perfection and the numerous ways in which natural, social, and consumerist environments could collide to form a Utopia. Fusing imagery from Dubai to Disneyland, her work reveals a fantasyland with an almost video game-like aesthetic: sleek, hyper-colored, and not quite realistic, though the subjects of her drawings are all-too real and familiar.

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


SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 10TH

Fantastical Fête: Walker Art Center Gala

@ Minneapolis Sculpture Garden
Walker Art Center
1750 Hennepin Ave.
Minneapolis

8:30 p.m. (6 p.m. Gold Key) / $100 (Silver Key), $500 (Gold Key)

Summer is winding down quickly, but not before one more sumptuous soiree in the most magical spot in town: the Walker's Sculpture Garden. Inspired by the strange faces and alluring places of Alice in Wonderland, twisted with elements of steampunk, the event will be just as gorgeous as it will be fun. Especially considering the entertainment for the evening: DJ Ammo, a world class DJ and producer best known for his work with the Black Eyed Peas and Kellis. For Gold Key holders, D’Amico will be catering a cocktail and hors d’oeuvres hour before the event. And of course, all proceeds go to benefit the museum. So, dress in your garden best, and don’t be late for this important date!

Click HERE for the Walker site


SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 10TH

Private Dancer/Birthday Suits/Child Bite

@ Hexagon Bar
2600 27th Ave S
Minneapolis

9 p.m. / 21+ / Free

In case you haven’t heard, our favorite post-punk partiers Private Dancer are retiring. Tears! But we have good news: their (probably) last show will be held this Saturday night at the gritty Hexagon Bar, where you are more than welcome to shimmy and shake and toss your hair like the dirty little garage rocker we know you are. Plus, Private Dancer will be joined by the always riotous Birthday Suits, Child Bite (hailing all the way from Detroit! And boy, do they kill), Tender Meat, and Finger Pressure.

Click HERE for the Hexagon site



SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 10TH

Black Moth Super Rainbow w/ Dosh

@ Turf Club
1601 University Ave W
Saint Paul

9pm / 21+ / $15

You gotta give these guys credit, they know how to hustle a gimmick while making themselves seem absolutely gimmick-free. Black Moth Super Rainbow’s usage of stage names such as Tobacco, Power Pill Fist and (our favorite) the Seven Fields of Aphelion (LOL), along with an aversion to modern recording technology and a general presentation that blends the worst elements of hippie-ism and hipsterism, in lesser hands, would be totally obnoxious. They even have songs called “Caterpillar House” and “The Afternoon Turns Pink,” for fuck’s sake. But this music is perfectly suited for summertime enjoyment: relentlessly upbeat, bubbling over with warm, purred melodies and sticky vocoder-laden hooks. The result is as psychedelic as an LSD visual, and every bit as satisfying. Tune in and drop out, man! Local savvy beatsmith Dosh will be on hand to open the show.

Click HERE for the Turf Club site

Black Moth Super Rainbow - the sticky from bob jaroc on Vimeo.

SUNDAY MUSIC PICK: JOHN MAUS

What's l'etoile listening to this week?

l'etoile loves weird music as much as any culture geek, but what we love even more is when the weirdness is homegrown. Prince, The Trashmen, Mark Mallman – let’s face it, flyover country has bred some seriously nutty--albeit legendary--minstrels. But his charming, unintentionally idiosyncratic brand of experimental pop isn’t the only reason why the Austin, MN-raised John Maus has peaked our ears this week. Both retro and futuristic, gothic and vibrant, lo-fi and incredibly intricate, Maus’ songs are the best kind of earworms, the kind you play in your head for days on end and still catch you of guard when you hear them aloud, even if it’s just the few bars you accidentally hum aloud on the bus. Whether or not this description makes any sense, spend some time with his latest album, We Must Become the Pitiless Censors of Ourselves, and keep on keeping it weird.

Click HERE for the John Maus site




Editor in Chief: Kate Iverson // Contributors: Juleana Enright, Tara Sloane, Natalie Gallagher, Kate Iverson, Robyn Lewis, Jahna Peloquin, Stefani Arden

Weekend What's What 9/1-9/3

HOLIDAY (ALL) IN

Although this weekend's transition from August to September is a bit painful in theory, we expect there will be plenty of fun to keep your mind off the impending cool weather doom. Not to mention, a three-day weekend never hurt anything! Make the art rounds, pop over to an outdoor rock show, do a little square dancing, and enjoy the weather like it's going out of style--which technically, it is--not to be Negative Nellies or anything (we love our fall fashion, really!).

xo-l'etoile

Photo by Kate Iverson

THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 1ST

Walker Free Thursday + Gather Tastings

@ Walker Art Center
1750 Hennepin Avenue
Minneapolis

5 p.m. / Free

The only thing better than free art is food to go with it – especially when Adam King (executive chef at Café and Bar Lurcat) is cooking. Since the opening of Gather by D’amico earlier this summer, Walker Free Thursdays have been extra tasty, and this Thursday is no exception. Especially considering the restaurant’s latest guest chef, King will be introducing a series of new culinary fancies, which will be available through the month. Once you’ve had your fill, head outside to the field for Acoustic Campfire, whose latest installment will feature songs of revolution and political change. Bring your tambourines, guitars, and a belly full of fire (if there’s any room left in it after Gather, that is). And oh yeah, free admission to the entire museum!

Click HERE for the Walker site



THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 1ST

Cum On Feel the Noize: An Evening of Butt Rock

@ Clubhouse Jager
923 Washington Ave N
Minneapolis

9:30 p.m. / 21+ / free

You know you belt them in the shower, those classic, head-bangin' 80's hair metal power ballads. You may even harbor a few heavy duty crushes on the hot dudes that made gender androgyny a rock “it” factor. That's why tonight is your night to shed the shame and join DJs Danielle Morris and Jacob Grun as they spin “macho hard rock” faves for your fist pumping and sing-a-long pleasure. Expect tasty jams from the likes of AC/DC, Judas Priest, Quiet Riot, RATT, Cinderella, Poison – you know, the all the bands your dad would be proud to find out you dig. Plus, sip down delish Jager libations conjured up by your resident no-nonsense, hot stuff ladytender, Robyn Lewis. Girls rock yer boyz; boyz rock yer girls; girls rock yer girls; boyz rock yer boyz...You get the picture.

Click HERE for the Facebook event



THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 1ST

Project Runway Weekly Screenings

@ Thom Pham's Wondrous Azian Kitchen
in the Caterpillar Lounge
533 Hennepin Ave S
Minneapolis

8 p.m. / Free

Join l'etoile and Thom Pham's Wondrous Azian Kitchen each Thursday as we host weekly 8 p.m. screenings of Project Runway Season 9 in the Caterpillar Lounge! This season features one of our very own: talented local designer Danielle Everine! Despite Danielle was (unjustly!) 'aufed half-way through, we'll still be there, sipping stylish drink specials (including the $6 special "Everine Fizz") and noshing upon Pham's delectable bar menu. Danielle herself, as well as season six contestant Christopher Straub, plan to flatter us with appearances from time to time as well, so bring your autograph books! Afterward, choose to stick around for DJs and dancing.

Click HERE for the Facebook event


THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 1ST (THROUGH SATURDAY)

Amsterdam Bar & Hall Opening Weekend

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

9 p.m. / Free

Shared content from the651.com

While the “official” grand opening hijinx will pop off September 23rd-25th, this weekend’s soft opening of St. Paul’s newest music venue, The Amsterdam Bar & Hall, will surely be a doozy. The old POP! Restaurant space in Downtown St. Paul has been reimagined by music venue magicians Jon and Jarret Oulman (331 Club, 501 Club), who have transformed the space into a hip, modular club and restaurant, which can expand for larger shows and national acts, but will typically maintain a more intimate setting–thanks to a dividing wall. The father-son duo have linked up with Eclipse Records and Big Table Studio, who will add a fresh retail element to the adjoining and adjacent spaces–a move we’re betting will inject some major pizazz into the area and foster creative culture at the same time. This Thursday night kicks off with the Red Pens, BNLX, and Lilian & The Harveys; Friday brings The Goondas and Ghostmouth; and Saturday rounds things out with The Bitter Spills, Germaine Gemberling & Rich Mattson. Stop down and support the St. Paul scene! Bonus: 3 free hours of parking at the adjacent Lawson Ramp with voucher from the bar.

Click HERE for Kate's interview on the651.com with Amsterdam co-owner Jarret Oulman

Click HERE for the Amsterdam Facebook page


FRIDAY ART PICK: ADRIAN VILLAR ROJAS

What's l'etoile admiring this week?

Of all the big questions that drive artists, Argentine sculptor Adrian Villar Rojas’ query stopped us dead in our tracks: What would human beings’ final art look like before we disappeared from the face of the earth? Among his answers are a gigantic stone whale stranded in the middle of a forest, an equally large clay statue of a woman weeping over the body of a dinosaur, and two equestrian monuments riding side by side, one a traditional horse and rider, the other a futuristically-dressed figure atop a droid. Equal parts melancholy and metaphysical, stirring and surreal, Rojas’ sculptures make tangible the intangible, stand as bold monuments to all that which humans are afraid to lose. And for that, we say, the apocalypse can bring it.

Click HERE for more


FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 2ND

Crosswalk Fashion Show

@ Cliché
2403 Lyndale Ave
Minneapolis

7 p.m. / free

We hardly want to whisper the words, but we have to admit it IS nearly fall. Instead of dwelling on the impending facts of the season, let's focus on the positive – fall clothes! Tonight, join Uptown boutique, Cliché, for a sneak peek at the fall trends as shown by local designers Jenny Carle, Sarah M. Holm and Rachel Blomgren. Revel in modern twists to vintage frocks from Carle, an ode to Mad Men-style from recent Voltage designer, Holm and gorgeous fabrics with an edgy flair from Blomgren modeled by locals and styled by Andy Doan and Tiffini Friend. Plus, enjoy crosswalk tunes courtesy of DJs Ben Grimes and Cliché's own DJ Cardigan. Fall is fab.

Click HERE for the Facebook page

Photo by Cody Lidtke

FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 2ND

Home

@ Altered Esthetics
1224 Quincy St NE
Minneapolis

7 p.m. – 10 p.m. / Free

Despite kitschy sayings, the concept of “home” has morphed for some. Domestic violence, immigration, homelessness and simply the dream for a new destination makes the definition of what a “home” is harder to pinpoint in some many words. Luckily the artists in Friday's opening reception has more than just words to use for their interpretations. In AE's latest exhibition, the artists explore the ever-changing concept of “home” through video installation, drawings, photography, paintings and more. Opening reception features a live music from Greg Brosofske and don't forget to head back to AE for a post-opening artists' discussion panel at 1 p.m. Saturday, September 17th.

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

Shuji Usui – My Home:

FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 2ND

Compound presents: East + West

@ Whittier Art Gallery
2840 Grand Ave.
Minneapolis

6 p.m. / Free

Throughout the years, MCAD MFA-ers have put some pretty incredible work, thought, and discourse into the local art scene. But it wasn’t until recently that a group of students decided to compile them all, uniting the artists and multiplying the impact. Fittingly titled C-O-M-P-O-U-N-D, the art publication is also throwing its first gallery show Friday at Whittier Art Gallery. Titled East + West, the show will feature work from past and present members of the MFA program, a musical performance by CEESICK, and an interactive audio-visual installation created in collaboration with Brooklyn-based electronic music producer PHASEONE. Your eyes and ears have no idea what they’re in for.

Bonus: After party at Nick & Eddie featuring Phaseone, Seated Heat, BK-One, Umami, and Mothers Tongue.

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

PHASEONE - SUGAR from Ryan Powell on Vimeo.

FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 2ND

Cover Band Show

@ Turf Club
1601 University Ave. W
St. Paul

9 p.m./21+/$6

There are few things more enjoyable and entertaining than a cover band—especially a really awesome cover band. Or a really crappy cover band, actually. Either way, you’re going to be thoroughly amused. This Friday night, the Turf Club presents cover bands serving up your favorite hits from T Rex, Patti Smith, The Cranberries, Lee Hazelwood, and 93.7 “The Edge”. Not your typical night of Heart smashes, folks! This is the real thing. The Facebook invite also says a few bands will be providing “freaky deakys”, and while we’re not entirely sure what that might entail, we feel like the names of those bands might have something to do with it: Goatflower, Dante and the Lobster, the Ventures Cover Band, Littlefoot, Dust Buns, Fortified Five, and Voytek. Bands start around 9:45, so if you’d like to play Simon Cowell and sit in a corner judging, get there early. (Just make sure you remember, after various delightful beverages, that you are not, in fact, Simon Cowell…cuz that’d be 'barrassing.)

Click HERE for the Turf Club site


FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 2ND

Is/Is, Bombay Sweets, Teenage Moods, Hollow Boys

@ Hexagon Bar
2600 27th Ave. S
Minneapolis

10 p.m. / 21+ / Free

As always at the Hex, your late night needs for rad music and PBR will be honored with the usual surliness that you have come to know and love. This Friday, party punk rockers Is/Is and Bombay Sweets are bringing you special guitar shredding and ambiance to make your Friday night extra special. Joined by the bratty Teenage Moods and Hollow Boys, this line-up promises a thrashingly good night of swelteringly sexy dancing. Plus, the iconic Hexagon Bar is the perfect place for you to impress the hipstah gurl of your dreams with your subterranean cool factor. Don’t skip this show.

Click HERE for the Facebook event




COOL LINK: THE MEDIUM AND THE MAYHEM

What's l'etoile peepin' on the web this week?

Like many wandering souls, Lisa Kori Chung has spent much of the past year travelling the world. But while her itinerary boasts of worldwide must-visits Brazil, Argentina, Japan, India, Thailand, Spain, and more, the lens through which she’s been adventuring is so cool, we really wish we’d thought of it first: electronic art, in all its various mediums and manifestations. A new media studies grad from Oberlin, Chung received an independent research grant to study in depth all things electronic worldwide, and The Medium and the Mayhem is where she posts her findings – as well as a few cool projects of her own. Your daily dose of geeky inspiration, done and done.

Click HERE for the website


SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 3RD

The Call and Answer Project

@ Walker Art Center
1750 Hennepin Avenue
Minneapolis

10 a.m. (dance at 1 p.m.) / Free

Inspired by an evening of dancing and a friend’s keen assessment (it was the most she’d been touched in years), Call & Answer is video artist/photographer Amanda Lovelee’s way to get you to hold hands with someone you don’t know, to the tune of building community and a whole lot of fiddle. Curious as to how strangers can connect through touch (in a positive way), Lovelee made a documentary on the Twin Cities’ square dancing community, which spurned another idea: a group square dance during the Northern Spark Festival earlier this summer (participants got free pie if they had their photograph taken holding hands with a stranger). On Saturday, both projects will converge at the Walker, where Lovelee will be premiering her film and hosting another large square dance on the lawn. So go ahead, swing your stranger ‘round and round.

Click HERE for the Call & Answer blog


SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 3RD

Rock the Link!

@ The Nomad
501 Cedar Ave
Minneapolis

4 p.m. / 21+/ Free

A hot, hot show is set for this Saturday at the Nomad and the best part is, it's all for a good cause. Link MN has teamed up with the Youth Service Network to raise awareness about youth homelessness in the Twin Cities. The Wilder Foundation estimates that 2,500 youth and young adults are homeless on any given night, so come out and support the cause before you go drunkenly snuggle into your nice warm bed, eh? The night kicks off in the Nomad parking lot: enjoy music by Solid Gold, Me and My Arrow, Howler, Kanser, and Desdamona. Stick around and follow the after party inside for more musical musings a la Fort Wilson Riot, Demographics, and The Japhies. Win-win!

Click HERE for the Facebook event




SATURDAY SEPT 3RD

Burger Night

@ Old Arizona
2821 Nicollet Ave S
Minneapolis

8 p.m. / 21+/ Free

Wanna come to the best burger night ever? Sounds scrumpsh huh? Well guess what…Old Arizona's music n' food bash is back and bigger than ever. This Saturday, enjoy burgers, grilled corn, beer and wine, all on special, then get geared up for the state fair with some scrumptrulescent chocolate covered cheesecake on a stick, compliments of Chubby Girl Cheesecakes. You can even feel good about your boozing: all beer and wine proceeds go to Old Arizona’s youth programs. Food Pyramid, a devoted Burger Night supporter/enthusiast, will round out the sonic space, along with tunes from No Man’s String Band and a special set by Holly Newsom of Zoo Animal.

Click HERE for the Facebook event


SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 3RD

Headquarters and Dimes

@ Loring Theater
1407 Nicollet Ave S
Minneapolis

7 p.m. / $12 adv, $15 door

For a show self-diagnosed as a “rock 'n' roll Lucille Ball juggernaut of entertainment,” the Patches and Gretchen lead Headquarters and Dimes troupe are taking their formerly web-only stint to the live stages of the Loring Theater for an epic surrealist improv variety show. Help “madcap rocker” Gretchen Seichrest and her talented band celebrate the dual release of two highly amped follow-ups to last year's Sugar Head Pie album, I Steal Carrots and Blue Skin. Enjoy live performances from P&G and special guest musicians as well as hilar interactive skits from band members. We guarantee it will be gong-worthy.

Click HERE for the Facebook event



SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 3RD

The Funeral And The Twilight LP Release

@ 7th Street Entry
701 First Ave N
Minneapolis

9pm / 21+ / $5

In a town that can be preoccupied with easy-going indie rock and dime-a-dozen garage rock bands, the Funeral and the Twilight contrarily explore themes of darkness, isolation, and loss with the haunting sincerity and feistiness of old-school post punk a la Joy Division, Morrissey, or the Cure's poppy phase. This Saturday, a diverse line-up if ever there was one will celebrate the release of their latest vinyl, the aptly titled Sullen Life / Blighted Death with friends Thunderbolt Pagoda, Claps, and Chickadee Mountain Martyrs. A full spectrum of assorted local talent for only 5 clams!

Click HERE for the Facebook event


SUNDAY MUSIC PICK: CLIFFIE SWAN

What's l'etoile listening to this week?

Brooklyn's retro-rock queens Lights are back with a new name and a new album. But not to worry fans of sinewy, fuzz rock, the Cliffie Swan duo remain true to their mid-70's pop meets grunged out sound. Memories Come True features even more decade-blending tracks that conjure up the good-feeling groove vocals of Stevie Nicks and Christine McVie with glitzy beats, psychedelic guitar shreds and haunting harmonies.

Click HERE for the site

“California Baby” on YouTube:

Editor in Chief: Kate Iverson // Contributors: Juleana Enright, Tara Sloane, Natalie Gallagher, Kate Iverson, Robyn Lewis, Jahna Peloquin, Stefani Arden