Staples Center, 1111 S. Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA
Between the men and boxing, I felt a powerful buzz for what was going to be an exciting evening. I had never seen a place so blood thirsty. Ortiz was the favorite among the public. Maidana from Argentina was the opponent. I recognized some famous faces at the venue like Oscar de la Hoya and other celebrities, however, on the same roof we were all the same: boxing lovers. Apparently men were whisky lovers at this stadium. A guy who sat next to me brought drinks for the entire row, and instead of beer it was expensive whisky. Guys were getting louder and louder, and I couldn’t figure out if it was the alcohol or the event itself. Indeed, it was quite an experience to sit in front of the ring. I felt as if I was fighting myself, it was electric. The champion, Ortiz, finally made his entrance and people began behaving like animals. Some men were howling while others were jumping on top of their seats, it was contagious! The boxing fight was a bloody battle, they both fought as champions, my heart was beating so fast because I felt their passion for the win. Everyone in the stadium screamed to them, told them how to fight as if they were their trainers. The 6th round was the last one, Maidana won, it was a technical knockout. That night there weren’t any losers but winners. It was a superb performance by two great fighters. The drunks who cheered for Ortiz weren’t disappointed, alcohol filled their emptiness. I heard Ortiz’s fans optimism for the rematch and plans for a bar nearby. My score for this event: two thumbs up!
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Sunday, June 28, 2009
Great Grand Performances
Grand Performances, 300 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA
Summertime is best when it is shared. The season is for music, dance and films. I discovered that the city of Los Angeles has helped keep the art spirit alive. Friday’s at the Grand Performances are for people who enjoy watching a movie and listening to international and national musicians. While the free spirits gulped a glass of wine, I welcomed strangers to sit near me. People brought picnic baskets and alcoholic beverages, which became part of the entertainment. The venue has spectacular skylights and the city view made the evening an unforgettable moment. A gentleman who was behind me pointed out some garbage on my seat and cleaned it before I sat down: I could smell the happiness among the crowd and it was exciting to experience. A band called “Maleco Collective”, from Mexico played their Reggae and Latin percussion which created a unique sound. Tonight the movie was “Which Way Home” an extraordinary documentary film. The story was about the hard reality of illegal immigration. The combination of the music and the movie made my spirit more sensitive to my surroundings. I heard people sobbing because of the sadness of this film. The drunks, at least were the only happy ones due to the alcohol. This magic place definitely serenaded happiness to my soul, and also to the drunks. While everyone was exiting a girl accidentally dropped her beer bottles. She didn’t lose the smile on her face and coincidentally while crossing the street I saw her once again as she dropped her last beer bottle she kept on smiling though. I left energized with the gratitude of discovering such a great venue.
Summertime is best when it is shared. The season is for music, dance and films. I discovered that the city of Los Angeles has helped keep the art spirit alive. Friday’s at the Grand Performances are for people who enjoy watching a movie and listening to international and national musicians. While the free spirits gulped a glass of wine, I welcomed strangers to sit near me. People brought picnic baskets and alcoholic beverages, which became part of the entertainment. The venue has spectacular skylights and the city view made the evening an unforgettable moment. A gentleman who was behind me pointed out some garbage on my seat and cleaned it before I sat down: I could smell the happiness among the crowd and it was exciting to experience. A band called “Maleco Collective”, from Mexico played their Reggae and Latin percussion which created a unique sound. Tonight the movie was “Which Way Home” an extraordinary documentary film. The story was about the hard reality of illegal immigration. The combination of the music and the movie made my spirit more sensitive to my surroundings. I heard people sobbing because of the sadness of this film. The drunks, at least were the only happy ones due to the alcohol. This magic place definitely serenaded happiness to my soul, and also to the drunks. While everyone was exiting a girl accidentally dropped her beer bottles. She didn’t lose the smile on her face and coincidentally while crossing the street I saw her once again as she dropped her last beer bottle she kept on smiling though. I left energized with the gratitude of discovering such a great venue.
Saturday, June 27, 2009
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Checkmate
Royal Clayton’s, 1855 Industrial St, Los Angeles, CA
“Beer is in the eye of the beer holder”. That was the quote for this unique bar, which is located in a very interesting area in downtown Los Angeles. That night, there was “free I.Q test for alcoholics”, or better known as “trivia night contest”. Amy, a friendly bartender, had a good list of imported beers for the picky clientele. Tetley’s Beer seemed a popular drink here. Most of the people had a British accent and was not the classic Angelino crowd. As I was reading the drink menu, two guys satdown near me. Wei Shen from Malaysia, and Wesley from England, two nice guys with whom I couldn’t help but strike up a conversation with. Wei Shen said he is a photographer, and tonight was his first night at this bar. I told him that recently I had a Malaysian dish, which unfortunately wasn’t very good. He smiled at me, and said “that’s a shame!” Wesley was more into the trivia game than any of us; he was quiet but aware of his surroundings. I noticed that he smoked “vanilla cigarettes”, which I had never seen before. He said that there was a bar nearby that had ping pong tables; he invited me to join them there after the trivia game. I wanted to have a longer conversation with Wesley, but he had a goal: to win the trivia prize. Finally they stepped outside for a smoke, and I followed. The security guard, who was also British, shared with me that his twelve year old son played soccer for an important club in England. I could tell how proud he was by the beaming expression on his face. Soccer is a popular sport in The United Kingdom; it’s like being a hero. Wesley and Wei Shen finished their cigarettes and invited me to play pool and I accepted the challenge. While we prepared the pool table for the friendly competition, we heard the trivia game had just finished and Wesley was disappointed for his loss. I grabbed the pool stick to show off a bit and they found this new contest titillating. I was impressed by Wei Shen’s skill at the game; he didn’t give me a chance to show off more. Wesley stood in the corner and secretly wrote a poem in my little black notebook: “very good pool players, accepting to the scene, one tall, one small both fair, both mean” by Wesley. I scored that night, not necessary for the win, but for the pleasure of getting to know two great artists in a royal bar.
“Beer is in the eye of the beer holder”. That was the quote for this unique bar, which is located in a very interesting area in downtown Los Angeles. That night, there was “free I.Q test for alcoholics”, or better known as “trivia night contest”. Amy, a friendly bartender, had a good list of imported beers for the picky clientele. Tetley’s Beer seemed a popular drink here. Most of the people had a British accent and was not the classic Angelino crowd. As I was reading the drink menu, two guys satdown near me. Wei Shen from Malaysia, and Wesley from England, two nice guys with whom I couldn’t help but strike up a conversation with. Wei Shen said he is a photographer, and tonight was his first night at this bar. I told him that recently I had a Malaysian dish, which unfortunately wasn’t very good. He smiled at me, and said “that’s a shame!” Wesley was more into the trivia game than any of us; he was quiet but aware of his surroundings. I noticed that he smoked “vanilla cigarettes”, which I had never seen before. He said that there was a bar nearby that had ping pong tables; he invited me to join them there after the trivia game. I wanted to have a longer conversation with Wesley, but he had a goal: to win the trivia prize. Finally they stepped outside for a smoke, and I followed. The security guard, who was also British, shared with me that his twelve year old son played soccer for an important club in England. I could tell how proud he was by the beaming expression on his face. Soccer is a popular sport in The United Kingdom; it’s like being a hero. Wesley and Wei Shen finished their cigarettes and invited me to play pool and I accepted the challenge. While we prepared the pool table for the friendly competition, we heard the trivia game had just finished and Wesley was disappointed for his loss. I grabbed the pool stick to show off a bit and they found this new contest titillating. I was impressed by Wei Shen’s skill at the game; he didn’t give me a chance to show off more. Wesley stood in the corner and secretly wrote a poem in my little black notebook: “very good pool players, accepting to the scene, one tall, one small both fair, both mean” by Wesley. I scored that night, not necessary for the win, but for the pleasure of getting to know two great artists in a royal bar.
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Boardners is fabulous
Boardners, 1652 N Cherokee Ave, Hollywood, CA
There isn’t a bartender in town friendlier than Crystal who worked at this fabulous bar. Boardners had more than just alcoholic drinks for great prices, they had history and class. Immediately when I stepped inside I fell in love. The location is in a quiet street in Hollywood. Apparently it is one of the oldest gathering spots in the area. The bar used to be called “My Blue Heaven” and was established in the late 20’s by the songwriter and singer: Gene Austin. A few years later the bar changed ownership to other interesting people and finally in the early 40’s Boardners was born. It is named after Steve Boardner. Inside, there was a jukebox that played great music. The mix of mystery and beauty inspired people like Geoff for good conversations. As I listened to Crystal about their happy hour called “classic hour”, which are Sundays and Tuesdays (all day), Geoff stared at me. I interrupted him, and I said: excuse me are you looking at my breasts? He was shocked! He smiled at me, and said he was watching a movie playing right behind me. He introduced himself, and mentioned that he is a music composer. Geoff Jacob and I became good pals; he talked about relationships and said a true test of love is if they remain together after they “fart” in front of their partner. I added that if my boyfriend has a mole and I find it cute, then that’s love. But onces I stopped liking his tone of voice that’s when I know I stopped loving him. Geoff comprehended me perfectly and agreed. Crystal was part of the conversation as well. She said that she moved from Indianapolis and got the job through a friend and kept repeating how lucky she was to work at Boardners. Crystal with her enthusiasm energized me to talk more with my new pal Geoff. He said that Boardners is one of his favorite bars. He drove from a far town just to hang for the evening. Tonight they were showing “Miracle in the 34th street”, a classic movie from 1947. Geoff told me that he loves the clothing in that era when men wore stylish suits and women had style. I loved the observation because Mae West and Charlie Chaplin were admirable people to me. I didn’t want to look at the time, but unfortunately it was bed time for me. It was painful to say goodbye to such a good time but we knew we would return to Boardners.
There isn’t a bartender in town friendlier than Crystal who worked at this fabulous bar. Boardners had more than just alcoholic drinks for great prices, they had history and class. Immediately when I stepped inside I fell in love. The location is in a quiet street in Hollywood. Apparently it is one of the oldest gathering spots in the area. The bar used to be called “My Blue Heaven” and was established in the late 20’s by the songwriter and singer: Gene Austin. A few years later the bar changed ownership to other interesting people and finally in the early 40’s Boardners was born. It is named after Steve Boardner. Inside, there was a jukebox that played great music. The mix of mystery and beauty inspired people like Geoff for good conversations. As I listened to Crystal about their happy hour called “classic hour”, which are Sundays and Tuesdays (all day), Geoff stared at me. I interrupted him, and I said: excuse me are you looking at my breasts? He was shocked! He smiled at me, and said he was watching a movie playing right behind me. He introduced himself, and mentioned that he is a music composer. Geoff Jacob and I became good pals; he talked about relationships and said a true test of love is if they remain together after they “fart” in front of their partner. I added that if my boyfriend has a mole and I find it cute, then that’s love. But onces I stopped liking his tone of voice that’s when I know I stopped loving him. Geoff comprehended me perfectly and agreed. Crystal was part of the conversation as well. She said that she moved from Indianapolis and got the job through a friend and kept repeating how lucky she was to work at Boardners. Crystal with her enthusiasm energized me to talk more with my new pal Geoff. He said that Boardners is one of his favorite bars. He drove from a far town just to hang for the evening. Tonight they were showing “Miracle in the 34th street”, a classic movie from 1947. Geoff told me that he loves the clothing in that era when men wore stylish suits and women had style. I loved the observation because Mae West and Charlie Chaplin were admirable people to me. I didn’t want to look at the time, but unfortunately it was bed time for me. It was painful to say goodbye to such a good time but we knew we would return to Boardners.
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Sunday with Carlitos
Carlito’s Way, 15238 Victory Blvd, Van Nuys, CA
This bar called to me while I drove down Victory Blvd. It was as if the bar hunted me down. The people there looked like they were from The Wild West era and Carlos Castenanos, owner and bartender, immediately made me feel welcome. It felt like everyone there was waiting for me. Sunday afternoon in this saloon felt like a vacation: stress free. The Lakers were playing again, and the happy drunks were enjoying Carlitos’ spirits. There was a raffle, the more drinks the clients drank, the more opportunity there was to win the raffle. I don’t remember exactly what the price was, but neither could the drunks. Jeffrey, a new friend, was a gentleman and offered me his seat, so I could hang near the bar. He said that bars are the only place where people can break the ice without misunderstandings and I agreed with him. Millie, the younger bartender, was good at her job and her smile could knock down any guy’s heart. Carlitos was grilling hamburgers and the smell was inviting to the new people. Millie said that Thursdays were lady’s nights and Fridays were karaoke nights. Definitely, this place had a lot to offer. Black and white pictures were hanging on Carlitos’ walls, celebrities icons such as Marilyn Monroe and Mohammed Ali. There were comfortable red leather couches and stools in perfect condition. Carlitos had all kinds of alcoholic drinks for an affordable price. I couldn’t stay for the raffle due dinner plans but I gave my tickets to my new friend, Jeffrey. He was happy and sad because of my departure. I promised I was coming back soon. Tonight, The Lakers and I won: an unforgettable Sunday.
This bar called to me while I drove down Victory Blvd. It was as if the bar hunted me down. The people there looked like they were from The Wild West era and Carlos Castenanos, owner and bartender, immediately made me feel welcome. It felt like everyone there was waiting for me. Sunday afternoon in this saloon felt like a vacation: stress free. The Lakers were playing again, and the happy drunks were enjoying Carlitos’ spirits. There was a raffle, the more drinks the clients drank, the more opportunity there was to win the raffle. I don’t remember exactly what the price was, but neither could the drunks. Jeffrey, a new friend, was a gentleman and offered me his seat, so I could hang near the bar. He said that bars are the only place where people can break the ice without misunderstandings and I agreed with him. Millie, the younger bartender, was good at her job and her smile could knock down any guy’s heart. Carlitos was grilling hamburgers and the smell was inviting to the new people. Millie said that Thursdays were lady’s nights and Fridays were karaoke nights. Definitely, this place had a lot to offer. Black and white pictures were hanging on Carlitos’ walls, celebrities icons such as Marilyn Monroe and Mohammed Ali. There were comfortable red leather couches and stools in perfect condition. Carlitos had all kinds of alcoholic drinks for an affordable price. I couldn’t stay for the raffle due dinner plans but I gave my tickets to my new friend, Jeffrey. He was happy and sad because of my departure. I promised I was coming back soon. Tonight, The Lakers and I won: an unforgettable Sunday.
Sunday, June 14, 2009
Liberace manner
Liberace Penthouse, 7461 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles
Thanks to e-mail technology, I found out about this special event: “The Liberace Penthouse Party”. The apartment had an art deco style. The door knobs were oddly big, there were many mirrors on the walls, and there was a small swimming-pool near the living room with a spectacular city view. This place was perfect for the occasion: a party. There was a bar with all kinds of alcoholic drinks. Bartenders served free alcoholic shots (called a dirty queen) for an hour. It didn’t take long to see the quiet crowd transformed in to a loud one. I loved the metamorphosis. It is like watching a movie. Liberace was known for his flamboyant outfits and tonight his spirit was alive. The drunks showed style, their fashion wasn’t “stealable”, but indeed it was unique. Carlos, my friend, drank at least eight shots. He was a bit clumsy. He dropped his cigarette on the floor, spilled the ashtray all over and kept repeating himself. I laughed at him, Carlos was self-deprecating. After “the free shots hour”, there was one more free alcoholic drink, this time, any kind of alcoholic beverage. Carlos ordered a Gin n Tonic. As the night progressed, we talked about the crazy parties we used to hang out at. I can still see myself going to many other parties with him. He is a friend who I always felt comfortable with. We reminisced for a while. A photographer took pictures, and so did I. At this penthouse, the music and laughs got louder and due to Carlos drunkenness we departed. I was the designated driver. I thanked the party organizers for the happy time. At the exit, there were free gifts (t-shirts), the logo was: F_ _ K the Queen. I probably will re-gift it.
Thanks to e-mail technology, I found out about this special event: “The Liberace Penthouse Party”. The apartment had an art deco style. The door knobs were oddly big, there were many mirrors on the walls, and there was a small swimming-pool near the living room with a spectacular city view. This place was perfect for the occasion: a party. There was a bar with all kinds of alcoholic drinks. Bartenders served free alcoholic shots (called a dirty queen) for an hour. It didn’t take long to see the quiet crowd transformed in to a loud one. I loved the metamorphosis. It is like watching a movie. Liberace was known for his flamboyant outfits and tonight his spirit was alive. The drunks showed style, their fashion wasn’t “stealable”, but indeed it was unique. Carlos, my friend, drank at least eight shots. He was a bit clumsy. He dropped his cigarette on the floor, spilled the ashtray all over and kept repeating himself. I laughed at him, Carlos was self-deprecating. After “the free shots hour”, there was one more free alcoholic drink, this time, any kind of alcoholic beverage. Carlos ordered a Gin n Tonic. As the night progressed, we talked about the crazy parties we used to hang out at. I can still see myself going to many other parties with him. He is a friend who I always felt comfortable with. We reminisced for a while. A photographer took pictures, and so did I. At this penthouse, the music and laughs got louder and due to Carlos drunkenness we departed. I was the designated driver. I thanked the party organizers for the happy time. At the exit, there were free gifts (t-shirts), the logo was: F_ _ K the Queen. I probably will re-gift it.
Friday, June 12, 2009
Five Stars smile
Five Stars, 269 S Main St, Los Angeles, CA
Art Walk and a Lakers game in the same night, it’s insane! Going to a bar with no destination is like a rolling stone, sometimes when the luck strikes, a good bar could be right in front of you. It just takes a moment to perceive it. Sometimes, it is like a cover of a book. As I decided to read this bar, my judgment said that the outside looked like a lonely place in an old building but inside it’s a different story. Liz, a smiling bartender was making sure that all the drunks were taken care of. Pabst 24oz was $3.00, Budweiser pitchers for $7.00, a live band called “Big Moves” and the Laker game was a good recipe for a good evening. There was a pool table near the entrance and the bar made of mahogany wood. There was a flat-screen TV for those who like to watch sports events as well as a stage for the live band. The walls had sexy modern paintings and it was a shame that the artist was unknown. While I was watching the Lakers game, Marco the owner (born and raised in Los Angeles) served us to make sure that we felt as good as possible. Liz gave me a free coke. I admired the good service for an exchange of a smile. The Lakers won the game, so the drunks were happier than before, and at precisely that moment the party started. Good looking people were jamming with the rhythm of “Big Moves”; my companion kept ordering Pabst, and he began telling me about his life. He said his girl is a good woman. She has a Mexican, Chinese and Chilean background. He said that she brings him happiness. I asked him “is she the one”? His response was that people know the answer if a pregnancy ever comes out of the relationship. Agreed or not, that was his reality. The ring of my cell interrupted the conversation. Apparently there was a gallery nearby with free alcoholic drinks so we left rapidly to see it with our own eyes.
Art Walk and a Lakers game in the same night, it’s insane! Going to a bar with no destination is like a rolling stone, sometimes when the luck strikes, a good bar could be right in front of you. It just takes a moment to perceive it. Sometimes, it is like a cover of a book. As I decided to read this bar, my judgment said that the outside looked like a lonely place in an old building but inside it’s a different story. Liz, a smiling bartender was making sure that all the drunks were taken care of. Pabst 24oz was $3.00, Budweiser pitchers for $7.00, a live band called “Big Moves” and the Laker game was a good recipe for a good evening. There was a pool table near the entrance and the bar made of mahogany wood. There was a flat-screen TV for those who like to watch sports events as well as a stage for the live band. The walls had sexy modern paintings and it was a shame that the artist was unknown. While I was watching the Lakers game, Marco the owner (born and raised in Los Angeles) served us to make sure that we felt as good as possible. Liz gave me a free coke. I admired the good service for an exchange of a smile. The Lakers won the game, so the drunks were happier than before, and at precisely that moment the party started. Good looking people were jamming with the rhythm of “Big Moves”; my companion kept ordering Pabst, and he began telling me about his life. He said his girl is a good woman. She has a Mexican, Chinese and Chilean background. He said that she brings him happiness. I asked him “is she the one”? His response was that people know the answer if a pregnancy ever comes out of the relationship. Agreed or not, that was his reality. The ring of my cell interrupted the conversation. Apparently there was a gallery nearby with free alcoholic drinks so we left rapidly to see it with our own eyes.
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Graffiti tribute
Crewest Gallery, 110 Winston St, Los Angeles, CA
Graffiti artists gathered tonight for a special event, a tribute to the birthplace of Los Angeles Graffiti art. There was a place in Los Angeles in the 90’s called Belmont Tunnel, where the artists exhibited their graffiti art. This place was buried under foundation of a new condo development. As I tried to get inside the gallery to admire the show, I looked at the big picture and there were tons of people who tried to do the same. My body succeeded to move forward, however, I didn’t move much. I was not surprised to run into my friend, Raul, a graffiti artist. He said that Crewest gets busy; I had no doubt in my mind because the gallery space looked so tiny in comparison to the large crowd even though it was packed with polite people. Suddenly, he said how proud he was because his art was hanging on the Crewest’s wall. Indeed, I was happy for him too. This exhibit had so much talent on the walls that it was an educational experience for me. I was shocked to realize how many graffiti art lovers were in gallery. They had a DJ playing great music and people’s eyes danced to the rhythm while they observed the art. Alcoholic beverages were not enough for everyone inside but nobody was complaining. I looked through the glass and I saw people lining up to get a chance to see the exhibit, but unfortunately, Crewest closed the doors at 8:00 pm. When I tried to talk to Raul, he was busy talking to someone else. I don’t think he heard when I said goodbye. I left with a smile because the night was still young to find a new adventure somewhere else.
Graffiti artists gathered tonight for a special event, a tribute to the birthplace of Los Angeles Graffiti art. There was a place in Los Angeles in the 90’s called Belmont Tunnel, where the artists exhibited their graffiti art. This place was buried under foundation of a new condo development. As I tried to get inside the gallery to admire the show, I looked at the big picture and there were tons of people who tried to do the same. My body succeeded to move forward, however, I didn’t move much. I was not surprised to run into my friend, Raul, a graffiti artist. He said that Crewest gets busy; I had no doubt in my mind because the gallery space looked so tiny in comparison to the large crowd even though it was packed with polite people. Suddenly, he said how proud he was because his art was hanging on the Crewest’s wall. Indeed, I was happy for him too. This exhibit had so much talent on the walls that it was an educational experience for me. I was shocked to realize how many graffiti art lovers were in gallery. They had a DJ playing great music and people’s eyes danced to the rhythm while they observed the art. Alcoholic beverages were not enough for everyone inside but nobody was complaining. I looked through the glass and I saw people lining up to get a chance to see the exhibit, but unfortunately, Crewest closed the doors at 8:00 pm. When I tried to talk to Raul, he was busy talking to someone else. I don’t think he heard when I said goodbye. I left with a smile because the night was still young to find a new adventure somewhere else.
Monday, June 8, 2009
Saturday, June 6, 2009
Nong my imagination
Thai Patio, 5273 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA
Is there a foreign country in the middle of city of Los Angeles? It is here! As I walked into the Thai territory, I felt relax and connected. This place had it all: music, alcoholic beverages and friendly people; that’s what I call a Thai treat! My friend Lisa waited for me while sipping her Thai beer. She seemed happy, even though, she waited a long hour for me. But once again, music and alcohol bring out the best in people - or else it’s my imagination going wild. Before I sat down, Lisa was on stage singing with Nong (the stage singer) suddenly, they were in the middle of an incredible duet, making other people happy with their music. I had the best sit of the house, right on front of them. I was VIP (or at least the Thai service made me feel like it). Lisa returned to the table, and said that next week they were organizing a gig elsewhere. My friend ordered another beer, and before I exchanged a word, she jumped on stage again. Apparently, singing was her goal and the beers were her fuel. Around me, people were singing and drinking. It was like a carnival all night long. There was no end to this party, joy was in the air and more people kept coming. Finally, Nong took a stage break, and Lisa approached me. She wanted to see the pictures I took while they were singing. Nong is such a sport because earlier she was ill, but singing was her medicine. After many songs, it was running late and catching up on some sleep didn’t sound like a bad idea after all. Sometimes, I wish a day had more hours for more drunk stories to write about.
Is there a foreign country in the middle of city of Los Angeles? It is here! As I walked into the Thai territory, I felt relax and connected. This place had it all: music, alcoholic beverages and friendly people; that’s what I call a Thai treat! My friend Lisa waited for me while sipping her Thai beer. She seemed happy, even though, she waited a long hour for me. But once again, music and alcohol bring out the best in people - or else it’s my imagination going wild. Before I sat down, Lisa was on stage singing with Nong (the stage singer) suddenly, they were in the middle of an incredible duet, making other people happy with their music. I had the best sit of the house, right on front of them. I was VIP (or at least the Thai service made me feel like it). Lisa returned to the table, and said that next week they were organizing a gig elsewhere. My friend ordered another beer, and before I exchanged a word, she jumped on stage again. Apparently, singing was her goal and the beers were her fuel. Around me, people were singing and drinking. It was like a carnival all night long. There was no end to this party, joy was in the air and more people kept coming. Finally, Nong took a stage break, and Lisa approached me. She wanted to see the pictures I took while they were singing. Nong is such a sport because earlier she was ill, but singing was her medicine. After many songs, it was running late and catching up on some sleep didn’t sound like a bad idea after all. Sometimes, I wish a day had more hours for more drunk stories to write about.
Thursday, June 4, 2009
intoxicated by the smell
The Smell, 247 S Main St, Los Angeles, CA
I heard that, a philosopher is a man who can look at an empty glass and smile. When I look at the Smell, I do exactly that: smile. The Smell is a bizarre hole in the wall in downtown L.A. The entrance is in an alley and the door is next to a big garbage dumpster. Inside, the walls are covered with graffiti, the couches are broken and the smell is reminiscent of a thrift store. There is no alcohol served at this club, but that didn’t matter because I was intoxicated by the smell. I felt like Alice in Wonderland due to the surrealist atmosphere. The drawings on the wall were more alive than the crowd, and the music was transporting me to a fantasy world. People weren’t very talkative but that was alright, because I was there to listen to the music, which was amazing! For affordable prices you could purchase music records, as well as coffee, candy and snacks. Here the musicians are allowed to be as creative as they want to be, there are no judges and freedom is in the air. I stayed till midnight to soak up energy for my next destination.
I heard that, a philosopher is a man who can look at an empty glass and smile. When I look at the Smell, I do exactly that: smile. The Smell is a bizarre hole in the wall in downtown L.A. The entrance is in an alley and the door is next to a big garbage dumpster. Inside, the walls are covered with graffiti, the couches are broken and the smell is reminiscent of a thrift store. There is no alcohol served at this club, but that didn’t matter because I was intoxicated by the smell. I felt like Alice in Wonderland due to the surrealist atmosphere. The drawings on the wall were more alive than the crowd, and the music was transporting me to a fantasy world. People weren’t very talkative but that was alright, because I was there to listen to the music, which was amazing! For affordable prices you could purchase music records, as well as coffee, candy and snacks. Here the musicians are allowed to be as creative as they want to be, there are no judges and freedom is in the air. I stayed till midnight to soak up energy for my next destination.
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
I Film
Downtown independent theater, 251 S Main St, Los Angeles, CA
I was passing by an old building in downtown Los Angeles when I couldn’t help but notice the contrast of an old and new construction next to each other. This building, which I meticulously observed, turned out to be a theater. My curiosity was strong, so I walked inside and my first impression was admiration! Vivian, the receptionist and cashier was very helpful and friendly, which is a rare combo these days. She mentioned that a good independent film was being shown tonight “The Harder They Come”, apparently she had seen it. The general manager, Kelley Francis happened to show up, and she courteously gave me a tour of the place. Kelley explained how she is proud to be working for the Kirst’s Family, who own the building and restored the theater to bring back the film spirit. They did a magnificent job; it is a work of art! This theater shows independent films and holds 236 seats. They have a roof that can be used for screenings or for admiring the gorgeous view of the downtown Los Angeles. The theater sells alcohol and tickets are as low as $5.00. Kelley told me a bit of history about the place. Originally the place was built in the 1920’s, called Linda Leah, and was used for showing Japanese films. Kelley even mentioned a movie they recently showed (and highly recommended) called Koyaanisqatsi (Hopi tribe language), meaning “Life out of Balance”, I researched for this tribe, and found out that they are originally from Arizona and their ancestors were related to the Aztecs of Mexico. The downtown independent theater experience was both inspirational and educational. Cultural enrichment while sipping an alcoholic beverage is a treat. Cheers to that!
I was passing by an old building in downtown Los Angeles when I couldn’t help but notice the contrast of an old and new construction next to each other. This building, which I meticulously observed, turned out to be a theater. My curiosity was strong, so I walked inside and my first impression was admiration! Vivian, the receptionist and cashier was very helpful and friendly, which is a rare combo these days. She mentioned that a good independent film was being shown tonight “The Harder They Come”, apparently she had seen it. The general manager, Kelley Francis happened to show up, and she courteously gave me a tour of the place. Kelley explained how she is proud to be working for the Kirst’s Family, who own the building and restored the theater to bring back the film spirit. They did a magnificent job; it is a work of art! This theater shows independent films and holds 236 seats. They have a roof that can be used for screenings or for admiring the gorgeous view of the downtown Los Angeles. The theater sells alcohol and tickets are as low as $5.00. Kelley told me a bit of history about the place. Originally the place was built in the 1920’s, called Linda Leah, and was used for showing Japanese films. Kelley even mentioned a movie they recently showed (and highly recommended) called Koyaanisqatsi (Hopi tribe language), meaning “Life out of Balance”, I researched for this tribe, and found out that they are originally from Arizona and their ancestors were related to the Aztecs of Mexico. The downtown independent theater experience was both inspirational and educational. Cultural enrichment while sipping an alcoholic beverage is a treat. Cheers to that!
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
wasted with art
Plankton Robots, 2038 Bay Street, Los Angeles, CA
I love after hours events, especially when it’s about art. The city of Los Angeles goes to sleep early, but for those who time is no limitation, there are places that are strategically hidden, but are worth finding. My friend Jonah, an artist had a show in such a place. I almost didn’t find it, but when there is a will, there is a way. Drinks were $1.00, but the music and good times for free. There were lots of drunks, smokers and musicians hanging out at this art scene. We talked about lot of things, topics like art exhibitions prior to this one and others things which I cannot remember. I heard loud music in the back of the room so I started walking towards the wild side. After walking through a long corridor, I was not surprise to see people getting wasted while listening to the live band of the other end. The drunks were getting more than alcohol. There was good music with interesting art around it but eventually, they left to get food to sober up. Jonah told me that he is putting together a band, called “Where is the Moment” and he asked me to be one of the band members. That’s a one time opportunity I couldn’t refuse, so of course, I accepted! Next Sunday is our first rehearsal. As I looked around the place, I realized almost everyone was gone, so it was time for me to make my move too. I took away with me more than just a good time; I took away a memorable experience, thanks to all the talented artists who made this possible to all of us.
I love after hours events, especially when it’s about art. The city of Los Angeles goes to sleep early, but for those who time is no limitation, there are places that are strategically hidden, but are worth finding. My friend Jonah, an artist had a show in such a place. I almost didn’t find it, but when there is a will, there is a way. Drinks were $1.00, but the music and good times for free. There were lots of drunks, smokers and musicians hanging out at this art scene. We talked about lot of things, topics like art exhibitions prior to this one and others things which I cannot remember. I heard loud music in the back of the room so I started walking towards the wild side. After walking through a long corridor, I was not surprise to see people getting wasted while listening to the live band of the other end. The drunks were getting more than alcohol. There was good music with interesting art around it but eventually, they left to get food to sober up. Jonah told me that he is putting together a band, called “Where is the Moment” and he asked me to be one of the band members. That’s a one time opportunity I couldn’t refuse, so of course, I accepted! Next Sunday is our first rehearsal. As I looked around the place, I realized almost everyone was gone, so it was time for me to make my move too. I took away with me more than just a good time; I took away a memorable experience, thanks to all the talented artists who made this possible to all of us.
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