EAT - DRINK - PARTY
Summer 2013: Issue 39
YOUR SCENE - YOUR NIT E - YOUR GUIDE SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
Table Of Contents 2 The List
YOUR SCENE - YOUR NIT E - YOUR GUIDE
3 OC Fair 2013 4 The Restaurant Guide 6 Featured Food 8 Featured Cocktails 9 Featured Alcohol: DussĂŠ 10 Featured Food Events 12 Nitelife Around The World: Melbourne 14 Movers & Shakers 16 Featured Band: Save Ferris 17 Album Reviews 18 Featured DJ Duo: Aly & Fila 20 Featured DJ Duo: Sex Panther 22 Insomniac Interview 23 EDC 2013 26 Club Directory 27 Feature Venue
MyClubScene.com June Vixen Melissa Riso | www.melissariso.com Photo by Christian Arias
28 Events in Review: Spring Featured Events 36 Photo Recaps
All rights reserved @ 2013, the entire contents of this publication are protected by copy right. No part of this
37 TiĂŤsto Interview
publication can be reproduced or transmitted by any means, electronically or mechanical, without permission in writing from NiteGuide. The publisher accepts no responsibility for contributed manuscripts, photographs, artwork, or advertisements. Submission will not be returned unless arranged to do so in writing. Subscription price is $25 a year available at niteguidemag.com. NiteGuide Magazine is a monthly publication. All information regarding editorial content or property for sale is deemed reliable. No representation is made as to accuracy hereof and is printed subject to errors and omissions.
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Summer Suggestions By Kimberly Fisher
Brush Cases Always wanted to own a piece of art work but couldn’t find the time or money? Start off with a custom-made brush case from artist Anca Barbu. Influenced by Jackson Pollock and Van Gogh, Barbu is an abstract surreal/expressionist artist with a whimsical knack for electronic gadgetry. Currently based in Miami, Barbu has had her work featured in New York City galleries, art festivals and art shows. She has come up with a unique painting technique to make her cases stand out from the rest, with cool colors, fresh takes and fun patterns. Her iPhone cases can be shipped all over the world, and she can do custom orders of whatever you would like. www.BrushCases.com
Tea of A Kind Try a new revolutionary iced tea beverage. When you twist the cap, the fresh brewed tea and whole antioxidants infuse into the bottle via a patented nitrogen pressurized cap called “The Gizmo”. Flavors include Peach Ginger Black Tea, Citrus Mint Green Tea and Pomegranate Acai White Tea. No preservatives, reduces the carbon footprint, 20 calories per bottle and 100% recyclable. Find store locations or buy online at www.teaofakind.com.
Travalo Touch For the woman on the go, take your favorite scent with you in a durable,TSA approved, pocket-sized refillable fragrance atomizer. Available in 4 colors, the Genie-S pump technology makes refilling quick and easy. $19.99 at us.travealo.com.
20Jeans Taking a stand against overpriced clothes for guys, 20jeans comes to the rescue with an online destination for every and any male and the women in their life who buy for them. 20 Jeans is a premium men’s boutique offering the best of celeb styles to choose from! The site offers a wide range of essential pieces for the stylish man – including flannel and dress shirts, button-downs, and men’s skinny, jeans in an assortment of colors. Every piece is designer quality without the designer price. www.20jeans.com
Viviscal We know how important hair can be. Viviscal was formed after 20 years of research and expertise to promote healthy hair growth from the inside out. Backed by scientific studies, clinical trials and consumer research, this product is the secret to healthy, beautiful hair. The product line includes supplements that promote healthy hair growth, as well as shampoo, conditioner and Scalp Stimulating Serum to take care of the hair on the outside. If you have issues with thinning hair, check out the exclusive Hair Filler Fibers. Designed for both men and women, sprinkle the powder on to disguise a visible scalp and give the appearance of thicker hair – instantly! www.viviscal.com niteguidemag.com 1
THE LIST THE PUBLISHER Summer is here and people are ready to party! I suggest heading to Vegas and checking out the new nightclubs, such as Hakkasan or Light Nightclub. With pool parties being the new rage in Vegas, it’s a perfect fit for a sizzling Summer. Electric Daisy Carnival returns to Vegas again this year with huge talent, such as Tiësto, whom we have an exclusive interview with in this issue. We also talked with the owner of Insomniac and got an inside look at his perspective on EDC and the ever-growing EDM scene. You can read all about it in this issue. The restaurant guide section of the publication keeps growing and expanding as we are starting to focus more on great places to eat and drink across Southern California and Las Vegas. It’s amazing how many great restaurants and food there is available for us to choose from, so we are here to help you out. Make sure to check out our new website with daily updates: www.NiteGuideMag.com. Enjoy your Summer and stay safe!
Get NiteGuide Magazine delivered to your door. Shoot us an email: home@niteguidemag.com View digital vs. online at: www.NiteGuideMag.com
Justin Stearman Publisher
THE CREATIVE DIRECTOR This Summer Issue is one of my favorite! It’s full of great ideas for the hot weather and exclusive content. You will find photos from some recent events, such as Electric Run, Beyond Wonderland and Memorial Day Weekend. My favorite part of this issue is the Restaurant Guide section. We have featured a few signature food dishes and drinks for you to enjoy. Make sure to hash-tag us when you take photos at fun events with friends, we might just feature your photos in the next issue of NiteGuide Magazine! Have a great and safe summer! #NITEGUIDE Nicole Lloyd Director of Operations
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CREDITS Publisher Justin Stearman Justin@NiteGuideMag.com Director of Operations Nicole Lloyd Nicole@NiteGuideMag.com Layout Artist Nicole Lloyd Senior Editor Nicole Lloyd Nicole@niteguidemag.com Junior Editors Megan Harvey Megan Natelson Cover Photo EDC Photo by www.rukes.com Photographers Alfonso de Alba Brian Brown Christina Montaldo Dave Orell Jamie Dickerson Jason Alex Jonathan Juan Martin Clara Matthew Copley Megan Harvey Naytrus Staff Writers Christina Montaldo Drew Leahy Electra Keller Emmanuel Cayanan Gwen Connors Jamie Dickerson Justin Olsen Kimberly Fisher Kristephanie Poderoso Long Vo Megan Harvey Megan Natelson Paterson Wolfgram Rebekah Fitzgerald Interns Edward Beltran V. Sarah Borean Contact info@NiteGuideMag.com For advertising info email: advertise@niteguidemag.com www.NiteGuideMag.com
Entertainment
By Rebekah Fitz | Photos courtesy of OC Fair & Event Center
S
tep right up, step right up and get your tickets to the pinnacle of the summer and celebrate with music, mayhem and munchies. The 23-day OC Fair, celebrated annually for more than 120 years, brings to town something for everyone. Whether it’s date night or a family outing, the OC Fair is a prime destination to let loose and enjoy yourself. This summer’s theme is “Come and Get It.” I guess what “it” may be can be left to the imagination, but I am going to go and get funnel cakes and cotton candy. Those without a sweet tooth can chow down and sink their teeth into a turkey leg or roasted corn and wash it all down with a beer. Be sure and not to get too full on fried foods (or save them for later) because an array of carnival rides are waiting for you. Step back and relive your childhood days on rides like the Tilt-A-Whirl and the La Grande Wheel. For those on date night, it may be wise to bring a few extra bucks to win your date a prize in one of the many games the OC Fair has to offer. The Fair even has you covered on the costs and offers many discounts and promotions on their website, ocfair.com. The website offers a calendar of events including concerts, action sports, and family entertainment, allowing you to pre-plan and buy tickets in advance to avoid the headache of long lines. Live concerts run the course of the Fair, offering a wide variety of options including Grammy-nominated The Wanted for the younger generation who will be “Glad You Came,” and ZZ Top for the “sharp dressed” mature generation. With all the rides and food, it may be easy to overlook many of the exciting exhibits, contests and animals. This year on display are various award-winning paintings, photographs, baked goods, produce, plants and more. For those attending any of the action sports events or concerts, be sure to show up early or plan to stay late as tickets to these events allow complimentary access to the Fair. The OC Fair is the medicine for anyone’s summer time blues. See you there! www.ocfair.com
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The
Restaurant Guide Our top picks for great food.
NiteGuide Magazine’s Top Pick: Hakka Steamed Dim Sum Platter; Har gau (prawns and bamboo shoot), scallop shumai (minced prawn, scallop and topped with tobiko - eggs from the flying fish roe), perch dumpling and black pepper duck dumpling (includes duck, pumpkin, shiitake mushroom, black pepper, yam bean, coriander and preserved vegetable) are assorted and presented in a bamboo pot to preserve all of the flavors.
Available at Hakkasan Las Vegas MGM Grand Hotel & Casino www.hakkasanlv.com
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Featured Restaurant
Stir-fry Black Pepper Beef Ribeye Story by Rebekah Fitzgerald
C
lass has been injected back into the Vegas nightlife and restaurant culture with the opening of the world class restaurant Hakkasan inside the MGM Hotel & Casino. The Michelin-starred Hakkasan group
out of London has teamed with Las Vegas based Angel Management Group, which has successfully managed the venues of WET REPUBLIC Ultra Pool and LAX Nightclub, for a transformation to Vegas nightlife that hasn’t been seen since the opening of the mega club XS in 2009. Redefining Cantonese cuisine, legendary International Development Chef, Ho Chee Boon has devoted his skills to the pursuit of sensual pleasure and endeavors to provide exquisite food combined with great comfort. Hakkasan has been staged around the artists of the restaurant. Ho Chee Boon and his distinguished wok and dim sum chefs, showcase their hedonism into each dish. The Cantonese flare infused into the menu paired with the unmatched mixology has created a paradigm of what is true fine dining. With the menu’s array of options, ranging from seafood, poultry, beef, and tofu, something can be found for carnivores, omnivores, and vegetarians alike. The food has been paralleled with an inviting ambiance to create an experience that is out of this world that begins upon walking through the doors. The five levels of space even encompass enough room to offer caged dining above the main room, allowing a getaway from the action and a bird’s eye view . The blue and yellow hues, beautifully selected by a collaboration of designer ranging from New York to Paris, provide a calming and elegant environment to enjoy the evening. The combination of food, ambiance, and sound are an all around ambush of elegance.
Crispy Duck Salad
The restaurant is just a warm up of what is to be expected inside the club. The nightclub mecca offers an array of options with four separate nightclub experiences spanning over the vast area of 60,000 square feet. The main room houses the resident DJs, including the innovators of the dance music industry, deadmau5, Tiësto, Calvin Harris, and Steve Aoki. This elite cast will keep the club on fire providing the experience of a lifetime in dreamlike fantasy enhanced by the floor to ceiling LED displays. In case you have plans elsewhere, take the time to cancel, because Hakkasan Las Vegas is a five-level nightlife complex, drawing patrons from the U.S. and overseas. You will be partying alongside the who’s who of the nightlife scene and that know best how to have a good time. For more information on how you can experience Hakkasan Nightclub, please visit www.hakkasanlv.com. To make a reservation at Hakkasan Restaurant, please visit www.hakkasan.com or call (702) 891-7888.
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Featured Food: Pool Side Sensations Lobster Club
Marquee DayClub (Cosmopolitan Hotel)
3708 S Las Vegas Blvd Las Vegas, NV 89109 702.333.9000 | www.marqueelasvegas.com/dayclub| By Rebekah Fitz Marquee Dayclub has decided to take partying to another level with Kaskade and his Summer Lovin’ DJ residency. Marquee will also be featuring top DJs such as Avicii, Chuckie, and Benny Benassi this summer. Like the music their menu is nothing less than exceptional as well, in particular the Lobster Club Sandwich. Fresh ample pieces of lobster are combined with grilled tomatoes and avocado for utter bliss in your mouth. As you take the first bite the cherry-wood bacon will consume your mouth as you grab for a napkin while the savory sauce drips down your chin. It took 40 years to convince America that lobster is a delicacy, one bite of this club sandwich has made this writer a believer. If you’re on a diet watch out for this because you won’t be able to stop until the plate is empty.
Tuna Tartare Drai’s Hollywood
6250 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood, CA 90028 323.962.1111 | www.drais.net | By Rebekah Fitz The W hotel has graciously allowed Drai’s night club to take over their rooftop hotel pool and do what night life legend Victor Drai does best: throw a party. Every Thursday to Monday the bar is open in the only hollywood-esque worthy pool party in the city. Saturdays they turn things up featuring Skam Artist DJs for the ultimate Vegas pool party experience in the heart of Hollywood. One can only expect to work up an appetite lounging in the sun and dancing your bikini off, so grab a menu and look for the Tuna Tartare. It has fresh thick juicy pieces of sushi-style tuna, combined with cilantro and ginger and a bit of Sriracha for a satisfying spicy splendor. The tuna fusion is wrapped in a taro taco and is served aside an Asian sesame ginger salad. After indulging your tastebuds don’t forget to wash it down with one of Drai’s signature drinks “The Mistress” or “Sex on the Roof”, the two together don’t sound like a bad option either.
Cheeseburger Spring Rolls Intervention | Hard rock Hotel
207 5th Ave, San Diego, CA 92101 619.702.3000 | www.hardrockhotelsd.com | By Rebekah Fitz Hard Rock Hotel has duplicated their popular Vegas pool party Rehab in San Diego and added an extra touch of class. Every Sunday this summer party, Intervention, has big name DJs and a BBQ without the headache, clean up, and some of the high costs of throwing one yourself. Intervention has an array of food made to order if you’re just trying to grab a quick snack. However, if you’d like to feed the troops and keep everybody on their A game til 7pm, NiteGuide suggests you try the Cheeseburger Spring Rolls. The cooks have taken a well known and widely beloved classic, the McDonald’s cheeseburger, lovingly wrapped it in a spring roll and fried to perfection. They are tasty on their own, but come with a zesty special sauce and are also great with a bit of ketchup. With ten rolls to an order, this is enough to share with your entire entourage, but quick and simple enough to eat so you don’t stop the party or lose focus on music and friends... Enjoy!!
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Featured Cocktails Cucumber-Jalapeno Margarita SOL COcina
251 E. Coast Hwy Newport Beach, CA 92660 949.675.9800 | www.solcocina.com Second Location in Scottsdale, Az. Located on Balboa Marina in Newport Beach, SOL Cocina Newport is not your ordinary Mexican restaurant. Celebrating traditional Baja cuisine with a fresh, modern interpretation, served in a comfortably casual setting with spectacular views. The menu reflects the way you would like to eat in Baja— simple, fresh food that’s full of flavor. SOL Cocina also prides in mouth watering hand-made cocktails to quench your thirst. The vibrant bar offers over 60 artisan tequi-
Midnight Mojito
las and an inviting fire pit. Great for socialzing, a first date, or just a night out for Taco
Café Sevilla
Tuesday.
3 Locations in Southern California www.cafesevilla.com By Rebekah Fitz
According to SOL Cocina Mixologist Colin
Cafe Sevilla in downtown Long Beach offers so many options regarding alcohol it may be overwhelming as to what to choose. Personally, I’d love to sample everything and risk the hangover because one can only expect their beverages to be as exceptional as their food. Centralized in the restaurant we find their wine serving station offering wine tastings by the ounce; ideal when searching for the perfect pairing for your dinner. Moving to the main attraction is Sevilla’s Bull Ring (El Toro is the venue mascot) offering a wide range of drinks like customary Spanish Sangrias, Sours, and Margaritas, all done with a twist to make them exclusive to Sevilla. We would like to draw attention in particular to the Bull Ring’s Midnight Mojito which is the brain child of Sevilla’s mixologists. The Midnight Mojito’s sophisticated flavor is the fusion of Zaya aged dark rum, fresh lime juice, sugar, and mint to create the ultimate mojito. Typically a mojito is made with a white rum giving it a lighter flavor, however in the Midnight Mojito the dark aged rum changes the flavor to a rich bold sweet and seductive flavor. Just as the food does at Sevilla, their drinks will change the way you see cocktails.
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Pflugradt, the Cucumber-Jalapeno Margarita, one of his favorites, is a perfect combination of fresh and spicy flavors, balanced with fresh lime juice and agave nectar. Prepared in a 12-ounce rocks glass with a salt rim, the best feature of this cocktail is the muddled cucumbers and jalapeno slices. This cocktail is a must have for the beautiful summer ahead. Make sure you stop by SOL Cocina and quench your thirst!
Cigarettes & Coffee ARC Restaurant 3321 Hyland Ave Costa Mesa, CA 92626 949.500.5561 | www.arcrestaurant.com ARC is an American roast house and classic cocktail bar where libations recall a simpler era- back when the sip replaced the slurp. They make food with a focus on flame, flavor and finesse, where every item is crafted over open fire in a kitchen where there is nowhere to hide. An expansive bar looks in on the kitchen where tender and cook muddle the line between the two culinary centers of ARC. The bar gives way to all-booth seating nestled beneath an open ceiling that lends a sense of lifted limits and the freedom to wander. Bar Chef Koire Rogers is focused on a classically crafted atmosphere that echoes ARC’s kitchen with a scratch bar where bitters, infusions, syrups and sodas are all made in house. NiteGuide Magazine chose the Cigarettes & Coffee to feature because of its unique recipe and bold name. This cocktail is spicy, slightly bitter, and earthy. It’s a drink with flavor and aroma. The recipe is quite creative, consisting of Rye Whiskey, Amaro Abano, Gran Classico Bitter and a touch of housemade bitters. It is a must have. Next time you are in the Costa Mesa area, stop by and enjoy an ambiance of creative cocktails and a bit of mystery.
Featured Alcohol
D
D’USSÉ COGNAC By Rebekah Fitz
uring this unusually brisk California Winter, people are spending more time indoors next to a fireplace enjoying their favorite beverages to keep themselves warm inside and out. There’s nothing more relaxing than winding down your evening smoking a fine cigar with a glass of your favorite liquor. This winter, the unveiling of the new D’USSÉ VSOP will allow Cognac Connoisseurs an added advantage in warming their insides and,
more importantly, their palates. To find the most elegant of Spirits we must travel back to France; in particular to Chateau de Cognac. The French consistently craft the finest of alcohol, from their famous Wines and Champagnes to the favored Vodka, Grey Goose. An inspired partnership between Master Cellar Michel Casavecchia and quality spirit distributor Bacardi Spirits, who bring us Grey Goose and Dewars, has upped the ante with their new Cognac, D’USSÉ VSOP. Casavecchia’s passion combined with years of tradition is quickly setting a path for him to become a legend in the craft. Master Cellar Casavecchia has exquisitely perfected the elegance of this spirit combining spices, almonds, and cinnamon with the sweet flavors of honey and dried fruit, then allowing an aging process of 4 and a half years in oak barrels permitting the essence of the wood to leave your palate with a powerful, yet smooth, refined taste. Simultaneously, the smell warms you with a beautiful cinnamon and floral aroma in line with the season. The eyes are not neglected either, as the entrancing bottle exudes the class one might expect from a VSOP. While the preference of D’USSÉ VSOP is to drink it neat, it can also be enjoyed as a cocktail with a little OJ and Triple Sec. Just remember when ordering in mixed company it’s pronounced “dew-say” because you never know who’s listening, after all, D’USSÉ VSOP is the Cognac of choice for high class moguls such as Jay-Z .
Try these recipes... SIDECAR • 11⁄2 parts D’USSÉ Cognac • 1 part triple sec • 3⁄4 part lemon juice or 3 lemon wedges, muddled • Sugar, to rim half the glass • Shake and strain into glass Glassware: Martini cocktail glass Garnish: Lemon peel
THE CODE • 1 1 ⁄ 2 parts D’USSÉ Cognac • 1 part DISARONNO® Originale Liqueur • 2 parts pineapple juice • Dash Angostura® aromatic bitters • Shake and strain over ice Glassware: Rocks Glass Garnish: Lime wedge
For more information about D’USSÉ, go to www.facebook.com/Dusse.cognac niteguidemag.com 9
Featured Food Events
Photos by Martin Clara
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Photos by Bryson Kim & Ohana Photographers
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Cancun, Mexico
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By Emmanuel Cayanan
ach year, thousands head to the warm sands of Cancun on the Yucatan Peninsula, making it one of the greatest escapes in all of Mexico. The excitement transcends the Spring Break season, but the scenes of wild parties against beautiful backdrops remain the same. Resorts, historical sites, jungle tours, aquatic activities, and swim-up bars make it a pretty standard vacation spot, but the vibe that fills the streets at night makes this destination a unique nocturnal experience, with an eclectic mix of music in the air and people from all over the world ready to party. Nightclubs with light shows and acrobats, crowded and lively bars, ambient lounges, and live music venues offer a variety of scenes to get lost in. In the heart of the hotel zone, you’ll see plenty going on in the streets, and the entertainment often mixes indigenous cultural experiences with modern sex appeal. With plenty to do and see, the nightlife in Cancun will add a layer of excitement to your Caribbean getaway.
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Carlos ‘n’ Charlie’s The perfect launching pad for a night out in Cancun, Carlos ‘n’ Charlie’s offers an upbeat atmosphere with live bands and DJs that keep the music going until morning light. Having been established in the 70’s, it’s an infamous landmark in the restaurant scene and has for years given Señor Frogs a run for its money. There is a cover charge if you don’t order food, but there’s plenty to pick from on the menu. Your hotel concierge may have special deals if you book through them. Sit down at a table or at the bar. The atmosphere is such that you can have a few too many drinks and find yourself dancing on the bar and/or onstage without much judgment. This bar is a hit among tourists and locals alike.
Coco Bongo It has been featured in travel magazines and numerous travel television programs, but only those who have been to Coco Bongo can truly speak of the uniqueness of Cancun’s most popular night club. Acrobats perform above and celebrity impersonators and characters like Spiderman and Beetlejuice make appearances. Bartenders and staff sometimes take to the stage and flex their musical talent. Ear-throbbing pulsating rhythms orchestrating the movement of half-naked college-age partiers make this one of the most rowdy places in Cancun.
Señor Frog’s An infamous household name in the travel industry, the open-air venue offers a bar and restaurant that is world-famous for its lively party atmosphere. There’s sawdust on the floor, dancing on the bar and drinks are served in yard glasses. Theme nights happen often here, and on any given night, you may find yourself at a foam party or a glow-in-the-dark party. Contests and games usually end in the losers sliding down the in-house water slide that dumps them into the lagoon. It’s the most festive venue with confetti, shot girls, and live music.
Bulldog Café Just outside of Party Center inside the Krystal Hotel, Bulldog Café is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. All levels of the club are packed on weekends, especially during Spring Break. In the VIP area, there’s a hot tub with a waterfall often occupied by bikini-clad beauties. You can enjoy live music from the house band that performs a few times a night. The DJ keeps the atmosphere going between sets, and nationally-renowned musical acts often grace the stage with live performances.
Sweet Club Formerly operating under the infamous name Dady Rock, next to Dady’O, Sweet Club is abundant in eye candy with bikini contests just about every week. Every Thursday, Sweet holds a “Best Legs” contest with a $2,000 prize. Locals come to cheer on the contestants. DJ’s play a mix of hip-hop, rock, and Latin music. Flashing neon lights and an elevated dance floor give an exciting Vegas feel to the club. There are plenty of tables on the first floor and VIP bottle service is available. Sweet is a little more calm than Dady’O and Coco Bongo.
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Movers & shakers Featured Bartender Kelly Hall | 2nd Floor HB By Sara Borean
Kelly Hall is a local So Cal Sweetheart ready to shake a place up. Bartending and managing Huntington Beach’s 2nd Floor, Kelly’s love for art, music and food come into play. NiteGuide recently caught up with this avid traveler and musician for a quick chat.
NGM: What made you want to work at 2nd Floor? KH: Well I have been there since beginning, but I have a lot of tattoos myself and I like working somewhere where I don’t have to cover them up and everyone appreciates the art in it.
NiteGuide Magazine: Where are you from? Kelly Hall: Originally I’m from Long Beach, but have lived in Huntington since 95’. I love the season here. A lot of people don’t, but I love the tourists that come during summer. I love meeting new people and traveling myself, so I really appreciate them.
NGM: What makes second floor a stand out place on main street, HB? KH: We have lots of events going on during the week. Wednesday nights we have a trio, sometimes a quartet that plays classical instruments to the tune of rock. Thursdays is “Create your night”, we have artist display and sell their work and we supply materials so anyone who comes can make their own art. We really have developed an amazing relationship with the community though our kitchen, the local police station loves our food. It’s helping develop a clientele that isn’t just the 21 year old typical bar goers.
NGM: Do you have a favorite cocktail to make? KH: I make an amazing lemon drop, I don’t mind doing the work to make it fresh. NGM: What are your bartender pet peeves? KH: You’re working and its slammed someone makes a long order, you make everything and come back to them and they aren’t ready to pay, or fumble around for a while in their purse. Like you knew that’s what I was going to ask for next. [Laughing]
Featured VIP ManageR Meaghan Ramirez| Sevilla Nightclub By Megan Harvey
NGM: Do you have any quirky talents? KH: Well I don’t know if its quirky [laughing] but I’m a singer. I toured Europe a while ago with a band Boobietrap and have been recently jamming with a friend to start something new.
club phones pretty much 24/7, book table reservations, make all the bottle service deals, and seat reservations and get their initial orders. I also send out emails saying, “I hope you enjoyed your
Not one to sit still, Meaghan Ramirez jumps
______ event this Friday,” and am also the HR
across three Southern California county lines to
representative for Riverside and Long Beach, in
do what would normally take several people to
addition to the bottle service side. It’s definitely a
accomplish. Taking care of staff and customers
24-hour a day kind of job.
for Club Sevilla proves to be no easy task for this beauty, but she handles it all with grace and ease.
NGM: So you’re basically the busiest person in
NiteGuide caught her on one of her few free mo-
the world?
ments to see just how she does it.
MR: (laughs) Pretty much!
NiteGuide Magazine: How did you get involved
NGM: What do you in your spare time- if you
with Sevilla?
have any?
Meaghan Ramirez: I started when I was 16 as
MR: I managed to work and still graduate college
a hostess. After that I got involved with the club
this past December. But I’m also the oldest of
side, and I started cocktailing the weekend af-
6 kids, so a lot of the free time that I do have is
ter my 21st birthday. I did that for a year and a
spent at football games and soccer games and
half, and now it’s been a year and a half I’ve been
dance recitals. I also work in Riverside and Long
hosting. I pretty much just moved my way up like
Beach, and I’m lucky enough to have girl friends
that typical story.
who live in all those places. So if there’s ever a free night, I’m out with the girls!
NGM: What does being a VIP Host entail? MR: I’m VIP and bottle service, so I answer night-
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www.sevillanightclub.com
Featured DJ
DJ HYPHY | Playhouse Nightclub Resident By Megan Natelson
Playhouse Nightclub’s resident DJ, DJ Hyphy, sits down with us to answer some questions about being in the game. DJ Hyphy drops tracks in Hollywood at Playhouse every Friday and Sound Nightclub on Saturdays. NiteGuide Magazine: How long have you been DJing for and what got you started? DJ Hyphy: Since I was 12 and I’m 26 now so 14 years. I used to go to a lot of underground warehouse events with my brother who is three years older than me, so being in the party life at such a young age, I was drawn to it.
Photo by Troy from We Are Night Owls
Featured GO-GO
NGM: How do you like playing at Playhouse, Nightclub in comparison to the other venues? DJ Hyphy: Playhouse is always full of energy and people come to party and let loose. It’s a mini mega club of LA with the high ceilings, mesmerizing lights, and Funktion-One sound system, Playhouse is truly an A-Class venue to play. The crowd is made up of beautiful people the fact that Playhouse still draws a celebrity crowd means something, especially for Los Angeles.
NGM: How has your music evolved over the years? DJ Hyphy: There’s more variety in the music I play because I’ve been put in a lot of different situations. Whether it was my event, my older brother’s, then playing in festivals, night clubs, and Las Vegas I can now play anything and everything that the crowd wants to hear. NGM: If you could collaborate with anyone, who would you choose and why? DJ Hyphy: A-Trak or Diplo. Both are just out there and they’ve been in the game for a long time doing different things with their careers. A-Trak with Travis Barker and Diplo with Trap and Major Lazer—it’d be pretty sick to work with them. NGM: What is something people would be surprised to learn about you? DJ Hyphy: I can’t walk up to a girl and just start a conversation, but I can stand in front of a crowd in front of 10,000 people and talk in a mic. I’m extremely shy.
MF: I would say that my favorite part would be
Marin Fisher | Voyeur By Megan Harvey
getting do dance for all the amazing artists we host. I get to be in the party atmosphere AND
Nor Cal transplant Marin Fisher is proof that
get paid for it! Not only that, dancing is my
The Ultimate Package does exist, and she’s in
passion and I am so lucky to be able to do that
San Diego. Sweet, stunning, and an animal ac-
as my job.
tivist; Fisher brings it all to the table. Catch her moves at SD’s Club Voyeur, and in the mean
NGM: What would you say has been your fa-
time check in with her here to find out just how
vorite event at Voyeur so far?
she does it.
MF: Oh man that’s a hard one!! We are so lucky at Voyeur because we get to host so
NiteGuide Magazine: Where are you original-
many amazing DJs, but Calvin Harris and Laid-
ly from and how did you get started at Voyeur?
back Luke have been two of my favorites.
Marin Fisher: I am originally from the San Francisco Bay area. I moved to San Diego for
NGM: What do you do in your spare time?
College and attended SDSU. I got my start
MF: I’m also a Pilates instructor at East Village
at Voyeur by pure luck and chance.
Some
Body Shop in Downtown San Diego. When I’m
of my friends were doing some print work for
not teaching or dancing I love to go running
the club and found out that they were holding
and spend time with my dog Kaya.
open gogo auditions. They told me about it and thought I should audition so I did!
NGM: Is there anything about you that people might find surprising?
NGM: What’s your absolute favorite part about
MF: I’m really active with the San Diego Hu-
your job?
mane Society, and I’m a HUGE hockey fan!
www.voyeursd.com
niteguidemag.com 15
Featured Band
E
merging in the Orange County music scene at the peak of the third wave of ska punk during the mid 90’s, Save Ferris successfully won the hearts of ska fans and Southern California
locals. Their popularity sustained well into the new millennium despite the decline in that particular music scene. Save Ferris went on indefinite hiatus from 2003 until the spring of 2013. The band’s upcoming appearance at The OC Fair will mark the first appearance of Save Ferris in ten years. Niteguide had a chance to catch up with Vocalist Monique Powell on the details of the upcoming show.
By Electra Keller
Niteguide Magazine: What got you into ska music? Monique Powell: Back in the early 90’s I was studying opera at Cal State Fullerton. It was my first time away from home and I started going to shows the OC. I found a passion for 2nd wave ska and just fell in love with the scene. NGM: What are some of your biggest influences musically? MP: Right now I am revisiting the 1st and 2nd wave of ska. Some of my favorites include The Specials and The Selecter. NGM: Save Ferris will be performing this July at The OC Fairgrounds. How excited are you to be playing those songs again? MP: I am really excited about this show and so are the fans. It’s been 10 years since I have performed those songs. NGM: While a lot fans are excited about the performance coming up, many had hoped for an actual Save Ferris reunion. Is a reunion in the works? MP: I would have loved to perform with some of the guys but they’ve chosen to focus on their current music projects and bands, which is their choice and I completely respect that. In all actuality, there were so many different Save Ferris lineups, a true reunion would just be impossible anyway. So this show is going to be the closest thing to a reunion the fans will ever get. I really have been wanting to give the fans the chance to hear those songs again. I was recently diagnosed with a congenital disorder which I had to have major neck surgery for. I have been going to physical therapy and seeing vocal therapists to recover and get strong for this show. This upcoming concert is important. I’m not doing this for myself; I’m doing this for the fans. I realized if I don’t do this now, I may not be able to do it later, who knows what the future may hold? NGM: That has got to be a difficult thing to overcome and you are very brave for carrying on and giving the fans the chance to hear the music again. Speaking of playing music, are there any other projects that you are currently involved in? MP:I’m in the early stages of a solo project. I’m working on creating new songs right now; and yes I think the fans will both appreciate and enjoy the concert. Catch Save Ferris at the OC Fair & Event Center Saturday, July 27, 2013. Official website for Save Ferris: www.SaveFerrisOfficial.com
Photo by Piper Ferguson
16 niteguidemag.com
Save Ferris official Facebook: www.Facebook.com/SaveFerrisOfficial
Album Reviews
M
aking a complete transformation from her previous album, Kerli is rising from her dark melodies with an uplifting new sound. In her new album,
Utopia, Kerli recognizes, but escapes the darkness with her sensational voice infused with lively electronic beats. Her lyrics elude inspirational strength and bonds of love; the kind of love that can shine through the darkness revealing the adverse side of the lucky ones. “The Lucky Ones” is Kerli’s infectious new single reassuring promising hope. The ‘the lucky ones’ give each other strength to be resilient, even in the worst of times. It is a heartfelt song where everyone can join in singing and moving together in unity. Other songs on the album are fun and energetic with a cyber techno sound. Kerli includes a few slower, ethereal songs about love using her voice in rhythm with the constant piano riff. The album emits a unique collaboration of pop and dance music polished with Kerli’s powerful vocals. It is a true testament to Kerli’s ability to transfer her thoughts and emotion into an eloquent song. The new album has brought in a lot of new listeners, released on March 19 via Island Records. By Megan Natelson
D
aft Punk’s anxiously awaited album, “Random Access Memories,” has debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart. Guy-Manuel de Homem-
Christo and Thomas Bangalter designed this collaborative album to produce a story that transports the listener back to Studio 54. They work with disco pioneer Giorgio Moroder, Pharrell Williams, Nile Rogers from Chic, Julian Casablancas of the Strokes, Panda Bear, and a few more. The duo pays homage to the roots of electronic by showcasing 70s and 80s disco funk with a twist of live instrumentation and their magic to bind it all together. With ballads such as “Within”, full of abysmal lyrics and “Fragments of Time” with Todd Edwards’ guitar offering a soft rock sensation, it soothes the listener into a calming paradise. The album picks you right back up into a disco feel with synthesizers and catchy hooks as with the lead track “Get Lucky” and “Lose yourself to Dance” both featuring Phar-
rell. The collaborating artists sincerely add their flavor to each of the tracks by making it sound diverse while collective. The entire album is a picturesque accolade to music. It’s unquestionably an LP to leave on repeat. By Gwen Connors
niteguidemag.com 17
Featured DJ DUO
By Megan Natelson
W
hen Aly & Fila’s euphoric trance beats take over the crowd, fans vanish into the music as their every move connects with the rhythm in harmony. As One of DJ Mag’s top 25 DJs, they are always striving to progress their sound while staying true to their Egyptian roots. Fans will be thrilled to see what’s in store for this captivating duo in 2013. NiteGuideMagazine: Congratulations on being voted into the top 25 of DJ Mag’s top 100 Djs for four consecutive years. Each year you have improved your spot in the poll, what did it take to get to where you are now and how do you plan on continuing success? Fila: Thanks! We are very proud of our history in the DJ Mag Top 100. Hard work is the key, never resting or being complacent, always looking to improve and better ourselves as musicians and DJs. We have great support worldwide and great teams around us, the Fans are our inspiration. With all this collected together, it’s a massive help to us. A huge thanks for the support we receive. NGM: You’ve been friends since kindergarten, what made you both realize you wanted to be musicians together and why trance music? Fila: Myself, I traveled a lot to Germany, it was there that I collected Paul Van Dyk mix tapes and then took them back to Cairo and played them with Aly. That was our inspiration and our route into Trance music. We knew we wanted to learn to become musicians and produce Trance music. NGM: How do you work it out if both of you want different sounds for a part of a track? Fila: We both have our own studios. We will work on different parts of a track then go into the master studio to complete the track together. NGM: Does any music outside of trance inspire you? Fila: Sure, through traveling the world we embrace different cultures, different sounds and music, which can help to inspire us. NGM: What do you enjoy listening to most while traveling on tour? Fila: To be honest, with all the time we spend traveling we tend to work on music as we go along, so we mainly listen to trance. NGM: Tell us about your radio show, Future Sound of Egypt, and please share what you enjoy most about it? Fila: The radio show has been broadcasting since 2006 weekly on various FM stations around the world. We love to do it because it gives us the chance to showcase many talents worldwide of up and coming producers and musicians off our record label Future Sound of Egypt. In 2013, we will be celebrating the 300th Episode. Expect some news on that very soon! NGM: What tracks on your new album, Quiet Storm, are you most excited about and why? Fila: To be honest we can’t reveal anything yet, but there is a lot of new material on the album with some interesting collaborations. We are really excited about the album. It has been 3 years next year since our debut album Rising Sun. NGM: What makes your sound unique compared with other trance DJ’s? Fila: We have our own sound that we have developed over the last 10 years, and there are elements of what has been classed as Egyptian trance in there. Our sound has developed, but we always stick to our roots and what we love to do, which is uplifting trance. NGM: What can we expect from you in 2013? Fila: Many singles, new artist album, FSOE events, gigs, and to be happy in what we do and to keep pushing ourselves to reach our goals and targets. Huge thanks to everyone who supports and continues to believe in us. You are our inspiration. Keep up with Aly & Fila at www.alyandfil.com | www.facebook.com/alyandfila 18 niteguidemag.com
Featured DJ DUO
By Megan Harvey | Photo by LE PANDA
T
ogether since 2011, DJ duo Sex Panther hit the ground running on the DJ scene. With early roots in LA’s Supperclub, the energetic friends are taking no prisoners in the music industry- at home and abroad. NiteGuide caught up with Ryan Fontana between he and Aaron Cool’s mad dash between this year’s Coachella and recording sessions for their upcoming release.
NiteGuide: So where and how did you guys meet? Ryan Fontana: I had landed a gig at the side room of the Avalon Hollywood. They asked if I could play on CDJ’s and I said “of course!” even though I had never played on them before. For the next couple of days leading up to the gig, I would spend 4-5 hours a day at Guitar Center learning on their floor models. Aaron came rolling through with some friends and we started talking. Talked music for a bit, had a broment, exchanged numbers and told him I’d slip him some drink tickets if he was around during my slot at the Avalon. I didn’t hear from him or see him again for at least three months, and then one late night at the Avalon, we bumped into each other. We had this moment of “hey I know you somehow”, and we sat there for a second until it finally clicked. We agreed to hang out that week and have a little jam sesh… That’s all it ever was, simply casual without any real intention of being in a duo. NG: Tell us about your first big show. RF: Our first gig actually came as a surprise. After sending out our press kit to all the promoters in Hollywood, no one was biting. “You and everybody else” was the typical response… However, on a glorious Friday afternoon, I got a phone call from a friend who promotes in Hollywood. “I need you to play Supperclub tonight” WHATTTTT!!!? It was the greatest, most unexpected phone call. Apparently, the headliner from Australia missed their flight and the opener got bumped up to the headlining spot. The club needed somebody to fill the opening spot immediately. Our press kit just so happened to be on the desk! NG: You played Coachella this year, right? RF: Coachella was probably our most magical experience to date. To be able to play on those festival grounds was such an incredible feeling. We played at the beginning of the weekend, Friday from 2-4pm. At first I was nervous because I had never gone to Coachella so early in the day; I really hoped that people would show up! Luckily for us, the entire tent filled up with new and familiar faces right before our set. Best way to kick off the weekend for sure. NG: Didn’t you make a Bootleg Pack from that performance? RF: Yea, the bootleg pack was a way to give back to our fans. We basically took 7 of our best edits/mashups (bootlegs) and put ‘em all in one pack for everyone to download. NG: What’s next on the horizon for Sex Panther? RF: Well we’ve cut back on our touring schedule quite a bit over the last month or two in order to focus on studio time. We were originally going to release an EP, but we’ve decided to go with single releases instead. We are planning to put out a new tune every 6-8 weeks, so we are really looking forward to that. We’ll be sure to let everyone know (via FB) when it does happen! Keep up with Sex Panther at www.facebook.com/Sexpantherdjs | Soundcloud.com/sexpantherdjs | @Sexpantherdjs | www.sexpantherdjs.com 20 niteguidemag.com
Photo by Erik Kabik
NiteGuide Magazine: What are you doing during EDC while the event is going on? Pasquale: I use to run around and work the entire time, but I’m lucky to have an amazing team now so I can relax and enjoy the event. It’s not just me and a few friends anymore. I like to walk around and experience the event as a fan would and note any improvements. I will put out fires if I need to, but if things are running smoothly, then I don’t take on any specific responsibilities.
Pasquale: A lot of people have just discovered dance music in the past 3-5 years, but it’s been a long road to get here. We have been doing events for over 20 years and there has definitely been an explosion over the past 3-5 years. I saw this before in 1999, we were doing 25,000 people to 40,000 people over night. We then went from 120,000 people over 2 days to 345,000 over 3 days. More people are going to see their favorite dj’s and are attending events such as EDC. It’s a great time and I am looking forward to the future.
NGM: Do people ever recognize you at EDC when you are walking around? Pasquale: Sometimes they do, sometimes they don’t, and that’s something new over the past few years. I’m just a normal guy walking around the event like every other fan. I don’t have any unique qualities that would make me stand out, I look like the average guy I guess.
NGM: What’s your favorite part about your job? Pasquale: My favorite part is creating the environment that people are going to enjoy, I am so excited for people to see the production. I can’t wait for them to see what’s in store for them at the events. It’s exciting for me to set this all up and make people smile and bring out emotion in them. That’s my favorite part, to witness the peoples experience, and to build the company.
NGM: When did the first EDC event sell out and what did it make you think? Pasquale: It was the second year of doing the LA Coliseum, it felt good to sell the event out. It was definitely rewarding after all the hard work and struggles. NGM: You consider yourself an ‘experience creator’ and a ‘night-owl’. How did you develop EDC and come up with this idea and transform it into reality? Pasquale: It wasn’t business driven, I never wanted to be a promoter and still don’t consider myself to be one. I wanted a place for my friends and I to party at and enjoy ourselves. I was drawn into this culture and music and was inspired by the experiences that I had by going into underground events in LA. The first time I went to an event, my friends were telling me about this new world and how it would make my head explode. The music is sick, the people are cool, and you can be yourself and there are good vibes. I was brought to this event, and my life was changed by those experiences. I want to create these experiences that are unique and bring like minded people together where people can express their individuality, where the music is good. The Insomniac team and I are experience creators, we are putting on a show for the head-liners.
NGM: Tell us about EDC London and expanding internationally. Pasquale: EDC London really means a lot to me. I visited London in 1992 on my own to check out the scene and get inspired, it’s where all the music was happening at the time. London is where all the music was coming out of back in the day, like Prodigy. It’s where drum and bass started, which I am a huge fan of to this day. It’s where the rave culture really took off, the music started here in the states, but the culture really started in the UK. I heard the music and fell in love with it, so to go back to where music really inspired me is an honor. To go there and go on sell with the festival and get a good response is heart warming, pre-sell tickets sold out in 5 minutes. I am really looking forward to it and adding another 3 event dates internationally. NGM: What are your future goals for Insomniac? Pasquale: I always want to improve the events and make them better. I want to go international with EDC and grow our other events to the level of EDC. Listen to the full interview at www.NiteGuideMag.com/edc
NGM: Describe the incredible growth with Insomniac and the EDM scene over the past 5 years.
EDC Las Vegas 2012 Photo by Curious Josh
Photo by Matt Little Photo by Curious Josh
Photo by Curious Josh Photo by www.rukes.com
Photo by www.rukes.com
niteguidemag.com 23
EDC Las Vegas 2012 Photo by Erik Kabik
Photo by Curious Josh Photo by www.rukes.com
Photo by Matt Little
Photo by Curious Josh Photo by www.rukes.com
Photo by Matt Little
24 niteguidemag.com
LOS ANGELES in Review
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his year’s electric run may be the only place you can combine Fairies, flashing lights, and fitness and call it fun. The same party you would expect at a Vegas nightclub has now been extended on a 5k race and is, as implied, electrifying.
Throughout the year all over the country a very eclectic crowd can be found with a new found interest in fitness provided by the entrepreneurs of the electric run, getting those who may not be inspired by traditional methodology to exercise. The energy level grows more and more by the minute as the start of the race nears and more than 10,000 people dressed in their neon prepare to be entranced by a trail of lights while racing through this Wonderland. The countdown is lead by celebrity guests which have included the sexy symbol Carmen Electra and the beautiful Vanessa Hudgens. On your mark, get set and glow into a different world. The first land we enter is the Glowing Arches. The awe-inspiring beauty of the color changing arches moving in tempo take the focus away from the pain and sweat of your increasing heart rate. Keep it moving into the first mile and we reach the lit neon trees and hanging orbs with a neffmau5 photowall, this is NEFFMAU5 Land, the land of Neff Headwear and deadmau5. Here the colors of the trees dance to the beat of the music, and your mind is focused elsewhere while your body is being invigorated. After passing the black light water station lined with radiating cups of color, we enter our next land surrounding us with a rainbow of lasers in this tunnel of lights. Marking mile two are glowing columns like a luminous stone henge with the moon as the background. Nearing the end is a perfect picture background, small umbrellas are suspended from the trees as you jump like a little kid to grab a hold and snap the shot. Finally, the finish line is more than a pat on the back as a full on celebration has begun to congratulate the thousands of racers now turned ravers. A laser light show corresponds with world class DJs for hours after the race to give the audience an all around unsurpassed experience. If you can’t wait for next year to engage in the evolution of fitness electricrun.com provides a listing of what city you can jet off to and take on the challenge now.
Story by Rebekah Fitz | Photos by MyClubScene.com | Jon Juan niteguidemag.com 25
Club Directory
[Mandalay Bay | Las Vegas] 3950 Las Vegas Blvd. South, NV. 702.693.8300 | www.myclubscene.com/lightlv
ORANGE COUNTY
LOS ANGELES
Avec [Huntington Beach] 18582 Beach Blvd, 92648 714-475-4660 www.myclubscene.com/avec
Cuban Pete’s [Long Beach] 245 Pine Ave, 90802 714.402.4972 www.myclubscene.com/cubanpetes_
EMBER [Anaheim] 401 N. Anaheim Blvd. 92805 714-991-3686 www.myclubscene.com/ember Heat Ultra Lounge [Anaheim] 321 W Katella Ave # 214, 92802 714-776-4328 www.myclubscene.com/heat Shark Club [Costa Mesa] 841 Baker St., 92626 714-751-6428 www.myclubscene.com/sharkclub Incahoots [Fullerton] 1401 S Lemon St., 92832 714-441-1666 www.myclubscene.com/incahoots The Observatory [Santa Ana] 3503 South Harbor Blvd, 92704 714-957-0600 www.myclubscene.com/theobservatory
The Yost Theater [Santa Ana] 307 N. Spurgeon St. 92701 888-862-9573 www.myclubscene.com/yost
San Diego
Couture [Hollywood] 1640 N Cahuenga Blvd, 90028 323-464-2064 www.myclubscene.com/couturela Eden Nightclub [Los Angeles] 1650 Schrader Blvd, 90028 323.525.2400 www.myclubscene.com/eden Playhouse [Hollywood] 6506 Hollywood Blvd, 90028 323-656-4600 www.myclubscene.com/playhouse Supperclub [Los Angeles] 6675 Hollywood Blvd, 90028 323-466-1900 www.myclubscene.com/supperclubla
207 [San Diego] 207 5th Ave, 92101 619-764-6926 www.myclubscene.com/207 Float [San Diego] 207 5th Ave, 92101 619-764-6924 www.myclubscene.com/float Fluxx [San Diego] 500 4th Ave, 92101 619-232-8100 www.myclubscene.com/fluxxsd
The Colony [Hollywood] 1743 N. Cahuenga Blvd. 90028 323-525-2450 www.myclubscene.com/thecolonyla
1 OAK [Las Vegas] 3400 Las Vegas Blvd. South, 89109 702-693-8300 www.myclubscene.com/1oak Gallery Nightclub [Planet Hollywood Hotel | Las Vegas] 3667 S Las Vegas Blvd, NV 89109 702-818-3700 www.myclubscene.com/gallerylv Hyde Bellagio [Bellagio Hotel | Las Vegas] 3600 S Las Vegas Blvd, NV 89109 702-693-8700 www.myclubscene.com/hydelv Marquee Nightclub
Sevilla Nightclub [San Diego] 555 4th Ave, 92101 619-233-5979 www.myclubscene.com/sevillasd
[Cosmopolitan Hotel | Las Vegas]
Stingaree
www.myclubscene.com/stingareesd
Tao Nightclub [Venetian Hotel | Las Vegas] 3377 S Las Vegas Blvd, NV 89109 702-388-8338 www.myclubscene.com/taolv
Voyeur [San Diego] 755 5th Ave, 92101 619-756-7678 www.myclubscene.com/voyeursd
xs Nightclub [Encore Hotel | Las Vegas] 3131 S Las Vegas Blvd, NV 89109 702-770-0097 www.myclubscene.com/xslv
[San Diego] 454 6th Ave, 92101
Sevilla Nightclub [Long Beach] 140 Pine Ave, 90802 562-495-1111 www.myclubscene.com/sevillalb
Las Vegas
619-544-9500
3708 S Las Vegas Blvd, NV 89109 702-333-9000 www.myclubscene.com/marquee
Visit MyClubScene.com to view the top clubs & bars in your area. View upcoming events, get on the guest list, see photos, videos, reviews and more.
Featured Venue
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By Sarah Borean
ight or day, the effervescent glow of cold cocktails and visual euphoria is on at the Mandalay Bay Casino and Resort’s three new attractions. Cirque Du Soleil along with The Light Group flipped the switch on the strip Memorial Day weekend at the grand openings of Daylight Beach Club, Eclipse and Light Nightclub. The revolutionary theme of all three clubs are said to radically change the day and nightlife game of Las Vegas. The element of surprise is on when experiencing either of these clubs, as every partier is a part of the show. Think acrobatic Go-Go dancer hanging from the ceiling in out-of-this-world costumes, not to forget the heaps of uniquely designed 3-D screens surrounding the entire area. It’s visual ecstasy like you have never experienced. Surprises were around every corner during the Memorial Day opener as the Princess of Monaco partied poolside in a Daylight cabana, EDM superstar Skrillex dropped some brand news beats at the Eclipse nighttime poolside party, and was later seen letting loose with Axwell. An acrobat even descended from the roof to deliver a 500k diamond ring one lucky girl. Who could say no to a performance like that? “The nightclub will serve as a laboratory, very much like our special events and projects have done in the past, for a different and new artistic possibilities.” Said founder of Cirque du Soleil, Guy Labiberte. Along with providing spectacular Cirque Du Soleil entertainment anytime of day or night both luminous venues offer a star-studded EDM line-up. Axwell, Stafford Brothers, Zedd, Krewlla, Clockwork, Thomas Gold, Bassjackers and Alesso are just the acts to round off the month on June. No single show will be the same, as each performer has worked with the Cirque du Soleil crew, engineering an unforgettable event. The Daylight Beach Club heats up the afternoon opening every Thursday through Monday at 11 am, transforming into the elusive Eclipse poolside party on Wednesday nights at 10 pm. The party at Light Nightclub kicks off every Friday and Saturday from 10 pm to 4 am.
Photos Courtesy of Joe Janet
niteguidemag.com 27
SPRING IN REVIEW: FEATURED EVENTS Paul Van Dyke Visits The Avalon Avalon [Hollywood]
By Electra Keller | Photos By MyClubScene.com | Brian Brown
As part of his global Evolution tour, world renowned DJ Paul Van Dyk paid a visit to The Avalon in Hollywood for a fun filled night of dancing and top notch electronic dance music. Listed as one of the top ten DJs from 1998 till 2008, his legacy proves himself as one of EDM’s most influential DJs of all time. His music excites both the old school ravers as well as the new wave of young dance music enthusiasts. Paul Van Dyk knew what the crowd wanted; aggressive, bass driven trance. He delivered exactly that and the audience was more than happy to be part of the experience. His nearly 4 hour set featured a mix of his crowd pleasing classics like “For an Angel”, and a remix of Above and Beyond’s “Sun and Moon.” Tracks played from his newer album Evolution include “I Don’t Deserve You” and “Eternity.” The high-energy sound kept the crowd dancing from the beginning of the night while opening act and resident DJ Kristina Sky performed, all the way till the early hours of the morning during the last few tracks of Paul Van Dyk’s set. The sustained excitement from the audience was an obvious indicator that Paul Van Dyk has still got it.
Digital C Takes on The Yost Yost Theater [Orange County]
Story by Megan Harvey Photos by Digital C
The Yost Theater is known for putting on epic shows, and May 4th was no different. Upstage Entertainment brought out up and coming DJ, Digital C, to put on an incredible show, filling the club with smiling fans (and friends!) looking for a night of fun and music. Digital C was joined by DJ Coze as well as Brazzabelle, taking down the night and creating a trifecta of talent that refused to be ignored. The energy was electric and the vibe was everything you would hope for in a performance, as was made apparent by the crowd’s upbeat vibe and energetic mood. This was the kind of event that epitomizes what dance music is supposed to represent: being able to forget your troubles and dance the night away with both old AND new friends alike. This truly was a night to go down in the books as something you should NOT miss the next time around! Be sure to follow Digital C on Twitter at www.twitter.com/DigitalCMusik to find out where you can catch him next, or you can check him out on Soundcloud to get a taste of what’s to come: www. soundcloud.com/dj-digital-c
28 niteguidemag.com
Hyper Crush Makes a Sting Stingaree [San Diego] By Fred Dyoll | Photos by www.PolsPhoto.com Stingaree is one of the hottest night clubs in San Diego located in the heart of the Gaslamp District. The Gaslamp’s premier bar and lounge offers only the highest quality entertainment and drinks. On May 24th, Memorial Day Weekend, electro/hip-hop/pop trio HYPER CRUSH arrived in San Diego with extra passion and ready to put on a performance in honor of the men and women that fight for our freedom. Fans flocked from all over to catch the show. The group got the crowd moving with their new single “Visions Of Coleco,” a gritty trap banger to be included on the group’s forthcoming EP titled VERTIGO, out later this summer. The new music takes a slightly different approach from HYPER CRUSH’s past hits including “Werk Me,” “Bad Boyz,” “Ayo” and “Kick Us Out,” while maintaining the ferocity, eccentricity and boundary-pushing reputation they have earned. HYPER CRUSH--Holly Valentine, Donny Fontaine and Preston Moronie-was one of the first music collectives to bring electro-rap to the mainstream masses. In 2008, the Los Angeles Times noted: “Hypercrush is now known nationwide to boosters of the kitschier side of dance music, thanks to infectious offerings such as ‘Robo Tech’ and ‘Sex & Drugs,’ which lit up countless Myspace profiles last year.” (11/6/08). Keep up with Hyper Crush at www.hypercrush.com, www.facebook.com/ hypercrushmusic and https://twitter.com/hypercrush.
MCS Thursdays
Cuban Pete’s Mojito Lounge [Long Beach] By Fred Dyoll | Photos by Martin Clara
Long Beach has a new hot spot: Cuban Pete’s Mojito Lounge. The lounge hosts a variety of styles of music and artists, while offering a relaxing lounge atmosphere- all right in the heart of downtown LB. With one of the largest dance floors in Long Beach and two large rooms to lounge and party, Cuban Pete’s is available for CD Release Parties, Corporate Events, Theme Parties, Bachelorette Parties, Cocktail Receptions, Offsite Meetings, and other private parties. MyClubScene.com hosts Thursday nights bringing in the top up-andcoming DJs and live performances including the Spazmatics, Pop Shop and more! MyClubScene Thursdays has a great nightly Happy Hour with $3 Jello Shots and Domestic Beers, $5 Fireball Jameson and Jager shots and bottle service specials starting at $99 when you RSVP at vip@ myclubscene.com. Get in FREE any Thursday night before 10:30pm by saying ‘MyClubScene’ at the door. On June 20th NiteGuide Magazine will be hosting our Summer Issue Release Party with featured DJ Duo Sex Panther. There is FREE guestlist to this event, email names to vip@niteguidemag.com. If you live in Long Beach or just driving through, make sure you check out Cuban Pete’s Mojito Lounge, and let them know Niteguide Mgaazine sent you! See you there.
See more photos from these events and others at www.MyClubScene.com
niteguidemag.com 29
Backstage With Julian Ingrosso By Electra Keller | Photos by Omar Guerra
D
espite the fact that the first weekend of Coachella was in full bloom, that didn’t seem to lessen the numbers of the crowd at The Playhouse Nightclub on the night of
Juilan Ingrosso’s performance. Lines of people were anxiously waiting outside to get a glimpse of the DJ and inside was an exciting world of flowing drinks and high energy dancing. Just before his set, Niteguide got to catch up with Julian Ingrosso on how he prepares for a show as well as his past experiences performing at the Playhouse. “I was lucky enough to pretty much be here for the opening week of The Playhouse many years back. The first night was a special night but I think tonight is going to be better. As far as my set goes, I’m going with the flow. I have a few tracks in mind that I know I am going to play tonight but I’m not going with a set list. I’m going to feel the crowd and see where they want me to take them.” Ingrosso got his big break when he became a resident DJ about a decade ago at one of Miami’s finest nightclubs, The Mynt Lounge. Being one of The Mynt Lounge’s most popular and highly reputable DJs landed him a spot at the nightclub during Miami Music Week this year, which has brought a whole new experience to his career. “This year was extremely gratifying. It was my birthday as well that same week so it was an incredible night. That week I also went to see Swedish House Mafia at Ultra Music Festival and went to a few pool parties as well. The best show was when I got to go with Deadmau5 to see his set at Ultra and go on stage. It was really exciting seeing him perform and headline on the main stage from the other side rather than just as a spectator.” Outgoing and approachable, Ingrosso’s fun loving nature kept the conversation going. It was bitter sweet parting ways with him as he was getting ready to take the stage. Fortunately, Niteguide was able to experience his set on stage, just as he did when he saw Deadmau5 at Ultra Music Festival. Seeing the show on stage definitely gave a new perspective to the perfor-
mance making Julian Ingrosso’s return to the Playhouse epic.
Keep up with Julian at www.facebook.com/djjulianingrosso
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Palm Springs in Review
U
AWOL SUN Oct. 10-13 Cabo San Lucas. Mexico
nlike any other music experience of its kind, AWOL, or Another Way of Life, is the perfect mix for the senses. Essentially a destination music event, AWOL asks you to go on vacation. AWOL not only features a music experience in the most beautiful locales around the world, but a culture of lasting connections, friendship, warmth, forwardthinking and open-mindedness. With AWOL Oasis in Palms Springs June 28-30th SOLD OUT, you do not want to miss out on their upcoming adventure: the 4th annual AWOL Sun in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico! This is where it all began, at the world-famous Nikki Beach club on Medano Beach. AWOL will be taking over the entire MB Cabo resort, with some of the best names in dance music, old friends, new friends, and plenty of fun. This four-night experience will feature over 14 hours of music each day, with daytime pool parties, night events, and of course the closing party on the beach, a tradition started last year that is sure to amaze. Imagine this: wake up to a breathtaking view of the Sea of Cortez, and complimentary breakfast at your bedside. Throw on a bikini or trunks and step outside your door to find some of the biggest DJs in dance music, great people, and delicious hand-shaken beverages to keep you cool throughout the day. Chill by the pool, soak in some rays, order food and drinks, take a swim, tear up the dance floor‌ the choice is yours. Tickets on sale now at www.tryawol.com/niteguide
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Photos by Topher Riley | www.topherriley.com
See more photos from Ultra Music Festival 2013 at www.MyClubScene.com Photos by MyClubScene.com | Chris Day
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San Bernardino Photo Recap
PlayHouse Beyond Wonderland
Photos courtesy of MyClubScene.com | Dave Orell
Glen Helen Park Hollywood
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Featured Producer
F
or over a decade, Dutch DJ royalty Tiësto has been bringing it all over the globe. With a Grammy nod, multiple MTV awards, and an Olympic performance- it would appear that there’s not much left to for him to conquer. Proving to everyone that there is always a next level, NiteGuide Magazine got a chance to catch up with Tiesto and discuss his plans for further world domination.
NiteGuide Magazine: Club Life Volume 3 is being released on June 25th. Tell us what we can expect in this volume. Photo by Nabil Elderkin
Tiësto: As with the other installments, this is based on one of my favorite cities – this time it’s Stockholm. I live there part of the year and get really pumped by the cities natural beauty, style and gorgeous people. It’s really inspiring and I often get a lot done in the studio when in Stockholm. I created this compilation with the city in mind and lots of the tracks have the spirit of the city in them. NGM: What is one of your favorite tracks on Volume 3 and why? Tiësto: It’s impossible to really single out any one track as a favorite. I’m really proud of them all. The compilation was created with 90% of my own original tracks, collaborations and remixes, so there’s a bit of a different flavor here. NGM: Your residency at Hakkasan must be keeping you busy. Tell us about your experience there so far and your thoughts on the new mega-club. Tiësto: It’s been amazing. It’s first class all the way with real consideration paid to the club experience for both the DJs and fans. The layout is perfect, the sound is great and I love the DJ booth. It’s next level Vegas. NGM: You will be in Singapore, Istanbul, Vegas and others locations around the world in June 2013 alone. What do you enjoy most about your traveling experiences while DJ’ing around the world? Tiësto: I believe that the best way to learn is to go out and experience things. So to travel around the world all the time really teaches me about people and their customs. It’s a huge planet and to experience so much of it is something special. NGM: EDC Vegas is coming up and you will be playing of course. What do you enjoy most about playing at Insomniac events, such as EDC? Tiësto: Well EDC Las Vegas takes me back to the festivals in Europe from the 90’s. large spaces with multiple stages and all the talent you can imagine. For years it was not possible to do something like that in the USA, so to see it now is amazing. I’m really proud to play there. NGM: What do you find yourself doing mostly on your free time, when you have some? Tiësto: I love to catch up with friends and really enjoy sports and outdoor activities. NGM: What other DJs do you get to hang out with a lot recently? Tiësto: It really depends where I am in the world. So often whom I hang out with is dependent on where I am. So when in Vegas I like to hang with the other DJs who might be in town that night, etc. Keep up with Tiësto at: www.tiesto.com | www.facebook.com/tiesto niteguidemag.com 37
Los Angeles Memorial Day Weekend
PlayHouse Playhouse Nightclub
Photos courtesy of Omar Guerra
Hollywood Hollywood
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LoNG Beach Memorial Day Weekend
Photos courtesy of Luis Miguel Perez
SEVILLA Nightclub PlayHouse Long Beach Hollywood
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Orange County Photo Recap
Photos courtesy of MyClubScene.com | Christina Montaldo
MUSINK PlayHouse Oc Fair & Events Center
Hollywood
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Melissa Riso MYCLUBSCENE.com June 2013 VIXEN
www.MelissaRiso.com twitter & Instagram: RealMelissaRiso photo by Michael Bell See more photos of Melissa at: www.myclubscene.com/vixen
Orange county Memorial Day Weekend
Photos courtesy of Taylor Layne
PlayHouse Yost Theater
Santa ana Hollywood
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San Diego Saint Patrick’s Day
Photos courtesy of MyClubScene.com | Alfonso De Alba & Jamie Dickerson
PlayHouse Shamrock
Gaslamp | San Diego Hollywood
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Checklist to Ensure A Successful Night Out! By Justin Olsen
W
e all know how easily a great night out can turn bad by some silly, avoidable mistake like forgetting to charge your phone or leaving your ID at home. A successful night can begin before you even set foot outside the door, and only a minor amount of organization needs to occur to ensure just that. Whether it’s a romantic dinner date or wild night on the town, NiteGuide has created a top five checklist for an enjoyable and stress-free evening.
1. 3. 5.
Hydrate & Nourish An empty stomach is the foundation for a disaster. There is nothing more important than water and food before heading out for an evening. Alcohol dehydrates you and without food you are more likely to blackout or get sick. Neither of these are the goals for the night.
Mindstate The decision to have a great night is made before you leave the house. Put on some feel good music and decide right now that the reason you’re going out is to have an amazingly fun time, no matter what happens.
Call MyClubScene
2. 4.
Pre-pack Lay out all the items, clothing and accessories you need for the evening on your bed at least 20-30 minutes before the time you need to start getting ready. Ensure everything is charged and in it’s place.
Social Lubrication It’s difficult, even for the most social person, to go from sitting on the computer surfing the web, to being out around hundreds of people ready to jump into interaction. Strike up conversation with people on the way to your destination or invite friends over to pre-game and save some cash before hitting the bars.
Leave the stress of planning your night to the professionals. MyClubScene is Southern California’s premier nightlife concierge for birthday and bachelor/bachelorette parties. They do the work, so you can enjoy a night out! Options range from VIP, FREE express entry, discount ticketing, bottle service, party bus and limo planning. Servicing LA, Orange County, San Diego and Vegas! Contact vip@myclubscene.com or call (714) 393-5944. niteguidemag.com 47
San Diego Memorial Day Weekend
my Life Every Day USA
Valley View Casino Center
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Photos courtesy of LED | Myles Heidenreich
Las Vegas Memorial Day Weekend
DayLight Pool Party
Mandalay Bay Hotel
Photos courtesy of The Light Group
Text PARTYTIME to 70101 for info on each weeks top events
Miami Photo Recap
Photos courtesy of Gustavo Caballero
PlayHouse SiriusXM Music Lounge
W Hotel | Miami Music Week Hollywood
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