Metro Times 05/22/2024

NEWS & VIEWS

Feedback

We’re excited to share that your local alt-weekly has once again been recognized among the city’s top journalists by the Society of Professional Journalists Detroit chapter, with one of our reporters winning three awards in the Print Class category.

Metro Times investigative reporter Steve Neavling won second place for his cover story “Black Detroiters are fleeing the city at an alarming rate” under the Racial Justice Reporting category.

Neavling also took home third place for two other stories, one for his ongoing series on “wandering cops” in Michigan, and the other a community news cover story on how some Michigan Muslims united with extremist Republicans against LGBTQ+

rights.

The awards were announced at the annual SPJ Detroit banquet on Wednesday.

Congrats to Steve and all the other local winners! —Layla McMurtrie, Metro Times digital editor

We got feedback in response to last week’s Fiction Issue, for which Bayan Founas served as guest editor and Drew Philp deputy editor. Thank you to all of our contributors!

Stunning and brave —Mary O’Keefe Re, Facebook

Powerful ❤️ —@yellowjacket1000, Instagram

All of your issues are fictional — fake news —@stamp_out_woke, Instagram

NEWS & VIEWS

Opinion

Detroit’s population growth masks glaring racial disparities

You may have woken up Thursday to the good news that Detroit’s population is rising for the first time since 1957, a time when white people began flocking to the suburbs.

Between July 1, 2022, and July 1, 2023, Detroit gained 1,852 residents, putting the city’s population at 633,366, according to U.S. Census estimates released Monday morning.

Detroit is now ranked as the 26th most populated city in the U.S., leapfrogging Memphis, Louisville, and Portland.

While population gains are a positive sign for any city, the growth in Detroit is far more nuanced and complicated than a single estimate can reveal.

Between 2000 and 2020, Detroit lost about 295,000 Black residents, or 37.4% of its African American population. No other city has lost more Black residents.

Meanwhile, Detroit’s white population grew by more than 5,100 between 2010 and 2020.

Black people now account for 77.2% of the city’s overall population, compared to 82.2% in 2010, when Detroit had the highest percentage of Black residents in the country.

You can see the growth in the pricey lofts and condos that are cropping up in Midtown, downtown, Corktown,

Brush Park, the Cass Corridor and the riverfront.

At the same time, a disproportionate number of Black residents are living in neighborhoods dominated by blight, abandonment, and crime. The number of middle-class neighborhoods in Detroit shrunk from 22 in 2010 to 11 in 2020, leaving longtime residents with fewer options to find a decent place to live.

The areas where white people are flocking are getting more expensive, displacing Black businesses and residents.

While the latest census information doesn’t break down data by race, it’s difficult to imagine that the Black population suddenly began to rise.

As part of a series Metro Times published last year about the growing racial and economic disparities in Detroit, we talked to Black residents who fled the city and asked them why they left. Overwhelmingly, they said they couldn’t find decent-paying jobs in the city. By contrast, white newcomers are disproportionately getting employed by highpaying businesses.

Over the last decade, the median income of white Detroiters rose 60%. For Black Detroiters, the increase was 8%, according to Detroit Future City, a think tank that develops strategies for a more

to be denied mortgages, regardless of their income level. Higher-income Black residents, for example, were denied a loan at a higher rate than moderateincome white applicants.

In a news release Thursday morning, Mayor Mike Duggan tried to make the case that Black Detroiters are getting more opportunities. He pointed to a recent University of Michigan study that indicated Black homeowners gained $2.8 billion in home value. He also said the city spent $1 billion for more than 4,600 units of affordable housing over the past five years.

Duggan has objected to past census estimates that showed population decline, saying many residents weren’t counted.

“We have known for some time that Detroit’s population has been growing, but this is the first time the U.S. Census Bureau has confirmed it in its official estimate,” Duggan said Thursday. “This day is for the Detroiters who stayed and for everyone who has put in the hard work to make Detroit a great place to live.”

Despite the good news about Detroit’s overall population growth, much work still needs to be done to address a future for Black residents.

equitable city.

The average income of a white Detroiter is $46,650, compared to $32,290 for a Black resident. The unemployment rate for Black Detroiters is 1.5 times higher than white residents.

In a recent report, Detroit Future City found that metro Detroit’s fastestgrowing, well-paying jobs are disproportionately going to white workers. About 16% of Black workers in the region are in so-called growth occupations, compared to 26% of white workers.

Jobs are considered growth occupations if they are growing at the same or higher rate than the region as a whole, pay at least a middle-class salary, have increased wages between 2014 and 2019, and employ at least 300 people. Most of the jobs pay more than $73,000 a year.

“What we’re seeing pretty consistently unfortunately is that the highest growth for Detoiters in terms of workforce is lower-wage jobs, which means the jobs that you would think of as middle wage or higher wage are not being occupied by Detroiters,” Anika Goss, CEO of Detroit Future City, told Metro Times in May 2023. “The jobs are either going to people who are moving here from other places or suburbanites. They are not Detroiters.”

Black Detroiters are also more likely

As a result of the inequities, many Black children are facing long odds of succeeding later in life. More than half of the city’s Black children live in poverty. About 20% of young adults who grow up in poverty end up poor in their 20s, according to the National Center for Children in Poverty.

Detroit’s Black population grew exponentially in the early and mid-1900s, lured by the bustling auto industry. But those fleeing Jim Crow laws in the U.S. south found themselves in similar situations in Detroit, largely relegated to substandard homes in segregated, overpopulated neighborhoods.

In the 1950s, when Detroit’s population peaked at nearly 2 million, Mayor Albert Cobo campaigned on a platform of “Negro removal” — a pledge to force Black people out of predominantly white neighborhoods and deny federal funding for Black housing projects.

In the mid-1950s, the construction of highways decimated the city’s historic Black communities, Black Bottom and Paradise Valley.

By the time federal civil rights laws banned racial discrimination in the 1960s, white people were fleeing the city for the suburbs, and the jobs followed, leaving behind a majority-Black population that lacked the resources to thrive.

Now that white flight is reversing, it’s up to city leaders and wealthy landowners to ensure that Black residents have a fair shake this time.

—Steve Neavling

Detroit Police won’t say why they raided Cinco de Mayo festivities in Southwest Detroit.

XAVIER CUEVAS

DCFC wants to build new stadium in Southwest Detroit

It looks like Detroit City Football Club’s time at Hamtramck’s Keyworth Stadium could be coming to an end.

The Motor City’s hit soccer team announced Thursday that it has acquired the site of the former Southwest Detroit Hospital at the corner of Michigan Avenue and 20th Street, with plans to build a new soccerspecific stadium to open by the 2027 season.

“This is a huge step for our organization to build a modern venue to serve our club and community,” DCFC CEO Sean Mann said in a statement.

“As longtime residents of the city, with a few of us even living within walking distance of the site, the leaders and founders of the Club view this project not only as an opportunity to grow our organization and sport, but as a civic endeavor to give back to the city we love,” he added. “We look forward to starting a process to connect with our supporters, city residents, and community leaders, among others, to craft a community-focused, grassroots professional soccer stadium that serves the City of Detroit.”

Southwest Detroit Hospital opened in 1973 and closed in 1991, declaring bankruptcy. It was later home to United Community Hospital, which closed in 2006.

Detroit City FC launched in 2012 as a semi-pro league, growing in popularity and drawing 3,884 fans at the biggest game at its former home at Cass Tech High School.

In 2016, an investment drive led by DCFC raised $741,250 to renovate Hamtramck’s Keyworth Stadium, where the team, now a member of the professional USL Championship, has called home ever since.

Keyworth Stadium has a capacity of 7,933, so it’s likely that DCFC is aiming for a larger audience at its new home.

“A DCFC home match is a can’tmiss stop for any true sports fan in the U.S., but our players, staff, and supporters deserve a stadium with modern amenities that retains the best elements of Keyworth while also putting the club on firmer financial footing,” said Alex Wright, DCFC coowner and chief creative officer. “The city and the people of Hamtramck were there when we needed them.

Investments by our club and supporters give proof of our gratitude, and we are excited to set forth on the challenge to make our forever home just as iconic.”

DCFC says it will reveal more details around the stadium vision, with a public engagement process to launch at a later date this year.

—Lee DeVito

Waka moving into former Russell Street Deli space

Detroit’s East African food truck Waka, a sister brand of the Baobab Fare restaurant in the New Center area, just announced the establishment of a permanent location in Eastern Market, taking over the former beloved Russell Street Deli space.

Waka initially launched during Detroit’s Noel Night celebration in 2022, serving as a street food offshoot of Baobab Fare, which Hamissi Mamba and his wife Nadia Nijimbere, both refugees from Burundi, opened in February 2021. Since its debut, the vibrant yellow Waka food truck has made monthly appearances outside Shed 5 at Eastern Market, but once-a-month visits are definitely not enough.

Later this summer, Waka by Baobab Fare will open at 2465 Russell St., bringing the community back to the gathering place that was home to Russell Street Deli for over three decades.

“We didn’t want to go anywhere else to start this,” co-owner Hamissi Mamba says. “People here in Detroit take care of us, so this idea of bringing East African street food to America has to start here. This is home, and we are so thankful to be able to grow our business and build on our story right here in Eastern Market.”

Reflecting on his childhood in Burundi, Mamba remembers his mother selling chapati and brochettes in the bustling markets of Bujumbura to support their family. He sees Eastern Market as a fitting location for the first brick-and-mortar iteration of Waka.

Mamba and Nijimbere are ambitious as of late, as the couple purchased a building on Detroit’s east side for a second location of Baobab Fare in March. However, Waka Eastern Market will be a distinct concept, still paying homage to the couple’s heritage, but in a more fast-casual way.

The new spot will feature flavorful stewed meats and vegetables wrapped in chapati, a flaky East African flatbread. Expanding from the food truck’s offerings, Waka will also include traditional street food dishes like brochettes — East African-style skewered meat grilled over charcoal.

Waka will accommodate around 30 guests with fast-casual counter service for both dine-in and takeout. Additionally, it will offer a curated selection of coffee, chocolate, beverages, and other items from the couple’s retail line, Soko.

“All of the flavors that people love from Baobab Fare are here, but Waka is even more fast and accessible,” Nijimbere says. “We are proud of what we’ve done with the food truck, but a permanent kitchen and a place you can always find Waka is so important. We are so excited to bring even more tastes of our culture to Detroit.”

—Layla McMurtrie

Detroit Police won’t say why they raided Cinco de Mayo festivities in Southwest Detroit.

XAVIER CUEVAS

Stevens faces primary challenger

U.S. Rep. Haley Stevens, a thirdterm moderate Democrat who represents portions of Oakland County, has emerged as one of the staunchest supporters of Israel — even as innocent Palestinians continue to be slaughtered.

And pro-Israel groups, some of them funded by Republican megadonors, are lavishing her with political donations.

Over the past four years, United Democracy Project, a political action committee affiliated with the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), spent more than $4 million on ads in support of Stevens, according to campaign finance records. The ads make no mention of Israel.

AIPAC, a hawkish pro-Israel group that has supported more than 100 Republicans who voted to overturn the election, donated more than $785,000 to her campaign since 2022.

The money appears to be paying off.

Out of the 213 Democrats in the U.S. House, Stevens was among just a dozen who joined Republicans in favor of a $14.3 billion aid package to Israel in November. To finance the handout, lawmakers proposed cutting $14.3 billion from the Internal Revenue Service, despite the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office saying the cut would increase the federal deficit by at least $12 billion because of the diminished ability to enforce tax laws.

Fellow Democrats called the legislation a “cynical political ploy” drawn up by “MAGA extremists.”

In April, Stevens joined 20 other Democrats who called on Columbia University to crack down on pro-Palestinian protests on campus, despite polling showing that most Americans are opposed to Israel’s military action in Gaza.

That same month, Stevens said during a House session that she feared protests would “erupt” after Hamas attacked Israel in October. She repeated disputed claims that many of the protests included antisemitic rhetoric. In fact, many of the student protesters are Jewish.

“My immediate thought was, ‘Oh dear, our college campuses are going to erupt,’” Stevens said. “I am a member of Congress who has been very dedicated to the Jewish student experience and the protection of it. We are, throughout this country, tragically and alarmingly at a boiling point as it pertains to antisemitism on college campuses.”

Stevens’s office even called the police on a Hazel Park man who threatened to protest outside the local district office in Farmington Hills late last month.

Angry that Stevens appeared to be silencing dissent and supporting Israel while it killed thousands of innocent Palestinians, Amy and Ray Hollifield called the Democrat’s local district office and

expressed their frustrations.

Ray Hollifield tells Metro Times that he and his wife were “berated and belittled” by Stevens’s deputy district director, Michael Tash. After Amy Hollifield hung up because of the way she was treated, she says Tash called her back on her cell phone “yelling and berating me.”

Her husband called back and said Stevens was lying about campus safety, putting peaceful ceasefire supporters in danger.

“If she continues to ignore people who voted her in office, I will have no other option but to exercise my First Amendment rights to organize and protest outside her office,” Ray Hollifield recalls telling Tash.

Later that day, a Farmington Hills detective called Ray Hollifield and wanted to know about the protest. Hollifield was astonished.

“I kept telling him, ‘Why are you calling me?’” Hollifield recalls. “He said, ‘You’re not in trouble.’ I said, ‘I know I’m not in trouble. I called my representative and expressed concerns and now I’m getting a call from the police.’”

Bewildered, Hollifield hung up.

“This is the first time I ever called a representative, and they sicced the fucking police on me,” Hollifield tells Metro Times. “I’m very fucking angry. … They are trying to scare me.”

Stevens’s spokeswoman Hayley GrayHoehn says the police were called out of an abundance of caution, but it was never meant to silence free speech.

“She speaks with thousands of concerned constituents and is very supportive of peaceful protests,” Gray-Hoehn tells Metro Times. “There have been a lot of threats and issues involving security around congressional offices.”

Soon after, the Hollifields were contacted by Ahmed Ghanim, an activist who works in health care management.

“He wanted to make sure we were OK,” Ray Hollifield says. “He just believed us. It felt like, here’s someone who is listening to us.”

The couple found out that Ghanim is running against Stevens in the Democratic primary election in August.

Ghanim, also known as A.G., immigrated to the U.S. from Egypt in 2001 and is vehemently opposed to Israel’s military actions. He became popular among progressives and other anti-Trumpers after co-founding Metro-Detroit Political Action Network, a group that formed after the inauguration of Donald Trump. The network rallied against Trump’s Muslim travel ban and branched out to fight racial, environmental, and economic justices.

When Ghanim speaks about Stevens’s staunch support of Israel, he doesn’t mince words.

“Haley Stevens is a genocide enabler and has children’s blood on her hand,” Ghanim tells Metro Times. “She has voted to send billions of our tax dollars, against the will of the people, to fund a genocide while the budgets for education, healthcare, and affordable housing continue to be cut. Her actions since October 7, as a rubber stamp for [Israel Prime Minister Benhamin] Netanyahu’s right-wing extremist government, have not only funded a genocide and resulted in the murder of tens of thousands of Palestinians, including more than 15 thousand children, but are also endangering America’s national security in the region and endangering the Israeli people by setting them on a course of endless wars.”

As an Egyptian American, Ghanim says he knows the Middle East “like the back of my hand” and that war is going to destabilize the region, making everyone unsafe.

“If the past 75 years have shown us anything, it’s that war is never the answer,” Ghanim says. “It’s time to remove Netanyahu and Congress members like Haley Stevens from office so that the genocide stops and lasting peace negotiations can begin.”

Ghanim emphasizes that he’s not running as “a protest vote.” He has a multifaceted platform that includes tackling rising inflation, instituting immigration reform, and improving education, health care, and affordable housing.

As Stevens accepts buckets of donations from pro-Israel groups and other deep-pocket donors, Ghanim knows he has a steep hill to climb. But, he says, he believes that grassroots campaigning is more potent than anything special interests can buy.

“We empower the people to fight back and take matters into their own hands,” Ghanim says. “The vast majority of our donors are first-time contributors.”

He adds, “We are witnessing a wave of

new donors and voters that will disrupt the establishment and reclaim our democracy. Our victory in District 11 is not just about winning an election; it’s about returning America’s political power back to the people. We are liberating our American dream of freedom and justice for everyone because no one will do it for us. We are the answer.”

The anger over Stevens’s staunch support of Israel is palpable on social media. Her tweets defending Israel are met with harsh criticism.

When Stevens tweeted on May 9, “We must make sure Israel has the tools it needs to defend itself,” supporters of Palestinians called her a “Zionist traitor” and “genocide enabler.”

“This tweet was bought and paid for by Israel,” one person responded.

Gray-Hoehn, Stevens’s spokeswoman, says it’s an “unfair characterization” to suggest that pro-Israel contributions are influencing Stevens’s decision-making, saying the congresswoman receives all kinds of donations, including ones from Emily’s List, an abortion rights group. Stevens is passionate about many issues in the district, Gray-Hoehn says, and wants to hear from any constituent with a concern.

“She’s always pumped to represent her hometown,” Gray-Hoehn says. “She has deep, deep ties to the community. She’s been very open to listening to people who have tremendous pain. She is not going to take any vote for granted and will fight for all issues that are important to Oakland County voters.”

In August 2022, Stevens defeated U.S. Rep. Andy Levin, a Jewish progressive who is critical of Israel, 60% to 40%. In that race, Stevens received millions of dollars from AIPAC-linked groups.

Metro Times made numerous attempts to reach Stevens for comment, but neither her campaign nor her office would respond.

U.S. Rep. Haley Stevens.

PUBLIC DOMAIN

—Steve Neavling

Lapointe

Debate rules could tongue-tie Trump

By Joe Lapointe

The most intriguing development from the political campaign last week was that President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump will debate at least twice before Election Day on Nov. 5.

The best night might be the first, on June 27 in Atlanta, when Trump will perform with one figurative, forked tongue tied behind his back. This is due to Biden baiting Trump into debate rules that might make Trump seem even battier than he already is. Or they might backfire on Biden.

Unless Trump backs out of his agreement — always a possibility — Trump won’t be allowed to bring his pep-rally cheering section into the audience; and he won’t be able to interrupt and shout over the president because microphones will automatically shut off when it is the other guy’s turn to talk.

At least that is what they are sort of telling us so far in a tentative deal. If this rule gets strictly enforced by a machine or a human at all times in the debate it would prevent Trump from loudly stomping verbally over his debate foe with his routine barrage of lies, character assassination, and fear-mongering.

Imagine an electric buzzer — or a moderator like Jake Tapper of CNN — demanding sudden silence from the same indicted man who has been fined 10 times for violating a gag order in a New York court trial on a felony rap. Imagine Trump ranting into a dead mic, his voice echoing through a mostly empty room as the President of the United States tries to speak.

But if Tapper and fellow referee Dana Bash cannot control Trump — and whoever has? — he will no doubt try to turn the telecast into his usual combination of pro wrestling, reality TV, and running down the United States of America.

Consider some of what Trump said, unchallenged, in a National Rifle Association speech Saturday in Texas. For a guy who claims to love his country, Trump sure seems to have a low opinion of it.

“We have become a drug-infested, crime-ridden nation,” Trump said in his “woe-are-we” tone of voice while his background music created a melancholy mood, sort of a soft moan or groan, a level below his normal bombast.

“. . . Large packs of sadistic criminals and thieves go into stores . . . to kill workers and customers,” Trump continued. “ .

.. Our economy is collapsing into a cesspool of ruin . . . Our education system ranks at the bottom . . .”

A different perspective came Sunday from Democratic Senator Chris Van Hollen of Maryland, a Biden supporter, who recalled on the talk shows how Trump turned the first debate in 2020 into an exchange of shouts, insults, and interruptions.

“What Donald Trump likes is a carnival-like atmosphere,” he told ABC’s Martha Raddatz. “He’s more of an entertainer than a serious debater on the issues . . . He wants to create this sort of atmosphere of a circus-like entertainment . . . Donald Trump likes to talk trash.”

In that Trump’s trash talk prompted Biden four years ago to mutter under his breath that Trump was a “clown” who should “shut up,” the Senator was asked if that would be the proper way to again react to Trump this time around.

“When Donald Trump is being a complete jerk,” Van Hollen said, “then I can understand the President of the United States responding.”

Even those who hate Trump (there could be a few) must admit he is accomplished at what he does: He knows how to rouse the rabble. At his televised Make America Great Again rallies (I’ve attended and watched too many) his red-hatted Magats stand behind him and smirk while he spews invective.

In his speech to the gun groomers Saturday, Trump’s conclusion included an awkward, 30-second pause — Did

he lose his script? — as the soundtrack began to play that weird, gloomy, stringsand-piano music he’s been using lately under the final lines of his speeches.

Trump portrays himself as an American patriot who just happens to condemn the American judicial system, the elites, the college professors, the college campus protesters, the vermin, the Marxists-Socialists-CommunistsGlobalists, the illegal immigrants, the media as “enemy of the people,” and — last but not least — all those imaginary convicts and lunatics from prisons and insane asylums in the Congo and elsewhere who are sneaking illegally across our borders and undermining our nation.

Seriously. Trump talks of them often. Just listen. This is the same performer who enjoys reciting song lyrics that end with “You knew darn well I was a snake before you took me in.”

“Fake news is all you get,” Trump continued on Saturday. “They are indeed the enemy of the people . . . Free speech no longer allowed . . . Crime is rampant and out of control, like never, ever before . . . We are a nation that in many ways has become a joke . . . Radical left terrorists violently attacking our cities . . . We are a third-world nation . . .”

Of course Trump gets away with this nonsense at his rallies and in right-wing media hits because no one dares ask him tough questions about subjects he doesn’t like. So he ducks abortion, an important issue which hurts Trump

Biden must avoid a mud fight.

UPI / ALAMY STOCK PHOTO

because he packed the Supreme Court with religious fundamentalists to abolish a constitutional right to choose. But a moderator might force him to answer questions or at least make it obvious that he is dodging them. Of course Trump will bellyache that the questions are biased and loaded. Perhaps biased and loaded questions are perfectly in order for Trump (preferably under oath). So let’s try a few. Pretend they are Artificial Intelligence questions belched out by a computer just for this debate:

• Mr. Trump, one of your ex-wives once testified that you kept a copy of Mein Kampf by Adolph Hitler in your bedroom. What is your favorite chapter in Hitler’s famous book?

• Speaking of wives, sir, your current spouse is rarely seen with you in public. Why is this? Nor does she stand behind you at the courthouse door in the manner of those red-tied, Republican sycophants like Matt (Jailbait) Gaetz, the Congressman from Florida, who is auditioning for vice-Spresident by dressing up in a Donald Trump Halloween costume with a face mask that still looks like the face of Jethro Bodine of the Beverly Hillbillies? What’s up with that, Trump?

• Just between us fellas talking here in the locker room, Donald, do you wonder if she’s getting a little on the side while you freeze your fat, old, butt while sleeping upright on a hard chair in a gloomy courtroom in Lower Manhattan? (Heh-heh-heh; that’s a cheap shot.)

• Speaking of vice-presidential candidates, Mister Former Guy, are you disappointed that your former veep, Mike Pence, says he will not even vote for you this time? Is that sanctimonious holy man still angry with you for sending a lynch mob to Congress to murder him? So long ago!

• As for sudden and violent death, will you ever apologize for calling American soldiers “suckers” and “losers” for dying in foreign wars? It’s been reported you said this to John Kelly, your former chief of staff. He’s never denied it.

• Sir, you’ve often said of Russia’s Vladimir Putin and China’s Xi Jinping “I know them well.” You often imply that you can deal with them better than Biden. Should you return to the White House, sir, would you sell out our nation first to Russia or to China?

• Speaking of foreign relations, Mr. Trump, who would you betray first: Ukraine or Taiwan?

• In a court case, Mr. Trump, you were found responsible for sexual assault. You called the accuser a liar, and said you never even met her and that she wasn’t your “type.” You said similar things about porn star Stormy Daniels. Exactly what “type” of woman, sir, is your “type” for infidelity or for sexual assault?

• In that you used to support a woman’s right to choose, have you ever paid for an abortion, legally or illegally? Or was that one of Michael Cohen’s jobs?

No, don’t expect challenging questions like these in a debate or when Trump calls into local Detroit right-wing radio stations as he’s done this campaign. But even if he is mildly challenged in a national debate, Trump’s instinctive response might risk self-destruction on live TV.

His normal, bully-boy style of conversation is to out-shout a rival and keep interrupting. It is the Bill O’Reilly/Sean Hannity method in which the winner is whoever bellows the longest and the loudest to conclusion.

That kind of belligerence favors Trump and works well in some TV formats, like Fox News, but not so much in a presidential debate. Last time, Trump’s tantrums damaged his image. A more recent example came this year with the Republican primary debates that Trump avoided.

Among all the pretenders on all the stages, the most obnoxious was Vivek Ramaswamy, who simply would not shut up when he was supposed to. This annoyed everyone, including conservative Republicans who might have wanted to hear his ideas.

Also, keep in mind that Trump was so bellicose and rude in the first presidential debate in 2020 that a new rule was installed for the second debate: that microphones would go dead during the two-minute opening statement of the opponent.

Further definition of the “dead mic” rules this time around might make all the difference. So Trump is already monkeying with the debate rules, working the refs, making the grandiose demand that Biden take a drug test before their confrontation.

It amounts to the sequel of “Birtherism,” Trump’s entry-level smear in 2011 that President Obama was born in Africa. But this is how Trump creates a mud fight while digging for lower ground and sloppier terrain. He’s good at this.

So let this be a warning to Biden, even if the ground rules are momentarily in his favor. Trump is what George Bernard Shaw meant when he said “Never wrestle with pigs. You both get dirty and the pig likes it.”

Fri 5/24

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Guide to

Your Techno City adventure starts

HERE

BY METRO TIMES STAFF

It’s that time of the year again: Time for three days of electronic dance music at Detroit’s Movement Music Festival, the beating heart of techno. Below is a guide to some of the 115-plus artists from the Motor City and beyond that you can catch during this holiday weekend. Be sure to check movementfestival.com for the full schedule and latest information — and happy raving!

SATURDAY, MAY 25

ABOUDI ISSA

An immigrant from Lebanon, Issa mixes house music with Middle Eastern sounds — and also serves as the resident DJ and general manager of Spot Lite, a hotspot in Detroit. LEE DEVITO

ACEMOMA

A collaboration between New York Citybased producers AceMo (Adrian Mojica) and MoMA Ready (Wyatt Stevens), who draw inspiration from the dance music scene of the ’90s. LEE DEVITO

ATAXIA B2B MISTER JOSHOOA

B2B sets are always better with friends, as is the case with longtime collaborators Mister Joshooa and the duo Ataxia. (So technically, a B2B2B?) Beyond playing together, they also have a vinyl-only record label called My Baby Recordings and recently released an excellent record last year on DJ Tennis’s Life and Death Records. Expect impeccable chemistry, chugging tunes, and maybe a few surprises thrown in. BROCCOLI

BARCLAY CRENSHAW

The Dirtybird Records founder and techno and house artist formerly known

as Claude VonStroke, Crenshaw has pivoted in recent years and branched out into experimental bass, dub, funk, lo-fi, and other sounds. LEE DEVITO

BLAAQGOLD

As part of the Houseparty VIP Popup Stage, Blaqqgold will bring all the energy typical of his own 79FM residency at Spot Lite. A potent blend of both dance and hip-hop classics, mixed together in a way that makes them sound fresher than ever. I wouldn’t be surprised to see many local hip-hop luminaries stop by throughout his set. JOE ZIMMER

CARL CRAIG (LIVE)

Considered one of the leaders of Detroit techno’s second wave, Craig’s career is the subject of a Desire: The Carl Craig Story, a new documentary set to premiere at the Tribeca Festival next month. LEE DEVITO

CHANNEL TRES (DJ SET)

After debuting in 2018 and making a name for himself with a string of singles like his hit “Controller” as well appearing on features with artists like Polo & Pan, Emotional Oranges, and Tinashe, this Compton DJ, singer, and producer is getting ready to drop his debut studio LP Head Rush in June. LEE DEVITO

COLIN BENDERS

This Dutch techno artist made a name for himself blending jazz and hip-hop in the Kyteman Orchestra, but has since become known for his synthesizer experiments. LEE DEVITO

DAMES BROWN

This Detroit trio embodies the spectrum of the Motor City, blending house, soul, and funk sounds. LEE DEVITO

DJ 3000

Beginning with his first release in 2002 on DJ Assault’s Submerge-distributed Electrofunk Records, DJ 3000 has been deeply ingrained in the Detroit music scene for over two decades. His approach to music is informed by his Albanian heritage as well as his connection to Underground Resistance; his DJ name is an homage to the address of the UR headquarters, which is represented in his recent release Mezë.

BROCCOLI

DJ ETTA

Multi-hyphenate Crystal Mioner, aka DJ Etta, is a force to be reckoned within the Detroit dance music scene. When she’s not throwing epic parties with her Blueprint and Moods crews, you can find her leading tours at Submerge’s Exhibit 3000. Under the guidance of legendary Detroit DJs such as John “Jammin’” Collins and Rick Wilhite, DJ Etta has carved a path for herself with a style that is built upon deep, intentional listening and a little bit of naughty boogie energy. BROCCOLI

DJ HOLOGRAPHIC

A self-described “funky force of joy,” DJ Holographic’s sets are always undeniably energetic and fun. After watching her play Movement festival one year with basically a broken leg, I’m convinced that there’s nothing that she can’t do. Oh, and she has opened for Swedish House Mafia on tour, no big deal. If you’re looking for the perfect DJ set to match that euphoric feeling we all get when returning to Hart Plaza for this special weekend, head to the Pyramid Stage on Saturday. You won’t regret it. BROCCOLI

DJ PSYCHO

Known for his frenetic and visibly passionate style on the decks, DJ Psycho is a local favorite with decades of deep digging experience. Often a vinyl-only selector, he’s sure to have one of the most diverse-sounding sets of the weekend. JOE ZIMMER

DOM DOLLA

One of the hottest new producers in the game, Dom Dolla had a huge year in 2023, with his remix of a Gorillaz track landing the Australian a Grammy nom. Movement usually hosts a couple acts that can fill out Hart Plaza with big-room, EDM-leaning house and monstrous drops. This year, that’s Dom Dolla. JOE ZIMMER

DONOVAN GLOVER

As part of the Houseparty VIP Popup Stage, local multi-hyphenate (style magnate, producer, video director,

in-demand DJ) Donovan Glover certainly brings VIP energy everywhere he goes. At his popular DONLITE residency at Spot Lite, his sets are eclectic and open format, a nod to his insatiable artistic drive. JOE ZIMMER

DREAMCASTMOE

Hailing from the other dirty D (Washington, D.C.), this beat-centric R&B and funk singer was recently signed to Ghostly International. You may have heard his tunes on the local airwaves via his labelmate Shigeto’s New Music Show on WDET. (Possible collab in the future?) Expect soulful vocals over self-produced beats and get ready for some D.C. energy in Detroit. JOE ZIMMER

FLOORPLAN

Detroit minimal techno legend Robert Hood made his Floorplan alias a family affair when he brought daughter Lyric Hood onboard in 2016. You can regularly find them bringing the good word all over the world to Ibiza, Berlin, Tbilisi, Croatia, etc., but this Memorial Day weekend the numberone purveyors of gospel-infused techno return home. JOE ZIMMER

FRANCOIS DILLINGER

This local act is known for his dark and brooding electro and techno productions… and also his bodacious beard. LEE DEVITO

HONEYLUV

A former aspiring pro basketball player from Cleveland who taught herself how to DJ while serving a stint in the Navy, HoneyLuv has exploded in popularity, blending house, techno, R&B, Reggaeton, and Afrobeats, and plays festivals around the world. LEE DEVITO

HUEY MNEMONIC

New-school techno wunderkind Huey Mnemonic is both preserving the lineage of the genre while experimenting with his own sound. The Detroitvia-Flint producer weaves themes of sci-fi and technology in with his own flair for funky, hypnotic rhythms. Associated with Submerge and Underground Resistance, expect heavy Drexciya vibes from Mr. Mnemonic.

JOE ZIMMER

J HOUSE

As part of the Houseparty VIP Popup Stage, and a co-founder of the crewevent series of the same name, J House plays with beat-centric grooves and isn’t afraid to throw it back to the ’90s R&B jams. Expect a good mix of retro throwback tunes mixed with hot tracks of the moment. JOE ZIMMER

JAMES RUSKIN

After cutting his teeth in the worlds of hip-hop and electro in the ’80s, this long-standing DJ and producer has become one of the biggest names in U.K. techno. LEE DEVITO

JAYDA G

With her mid-pandemic single “Both of Us” skyrocketing her to fame online while dancefloors remained empty, Jayda G capitalized on that momentum with her very good DJ-Kicks compilation the following year. She’s since emerged as a fresh new voice in both the club and pop music spheres, with high-profile remixes for Dua Lipa and Taylor Swift and constantly playing the festival circuit. JOE ZIMMER

JULIA GOVOR

JUJUKA label head and Lot Radio resident Julia Gavor is bringing her maximalist sensibilities to the Underground Stage this year. If you’re there for Paranoid London, stick around and see what all the fuss is about. BROCCOLI

JYOTY

The voice of Saturday morning on Rinse FM, JYOTY’s personality and presence in music is welcoming and contagious. If the crowd gives her good energy, you can best believe that it will be reciprocated. BROCCOLI

LOCO DICE

This Düsseldorf-based DJ has been an Ibiza staple since the early 2000s. LEE DEVITO

LP GIOBBI

A classically trained pianist from Oregon raised by Deadhead parents, Giobbi is known for playing piano house and for incorporating Grateful Dead stems into her sets. LEE DEVITO

LUDACRIS

Luda (as he’s affectionately known) is an Atlanta native known just as much for his role as Tej Parker in Fast & Furious as he is being a top-tier emcee. He’s one of the early architects of Atlanta’s hip-hop sound and has won three

Grammys and released 35 singles that have charted on Billboard’s Top 40 chart. KAHN SANTORI DAVISON

MAJOR LEAGUE DJZ

South African twin-brother duo Major League DJZ have taken the world by storm in recent years with a sound that blends elements of hip-hop, kwaito, afrobeats, and amapiano. They also apparently broke the world record for the longest DJ set performed by a duo, performing for 75 hours from Sept. 2-4 for a special edition of their Balcony Mix Xperience. Will they do it again at Movement 2024? Only time will tell.

BROCCOLI

MASQUENADA

As part of the Houseparty VIP Popup Stage, Masquenada brings houseinfluenced hip-hop and R&B selections perfect for a sunny Detroit day.

JOE ZIMMER

MONA BLACK

A mysterious Detroit native, Mona Black’s sounds are just as elusive, with sexy techno and house tracks that are thrilling and thought-provoking.

KONSTANTINA BUHALIS

PARANOID LONDON (LIVE)

An untethered acid house duo with post-punk influences, Paranoid London gets dirty with their instant classic sound by taking London grit and vinylera DJing. Intoxicating sounds reminiscent of the English Underground — don’t miss one of the fest’s more alternative acts.

KONSTANTINA BUHALIS

PARTIBOI69 (LIVE)

If you couldn’t guess by the name, Partiboi69 doesn’t take himself too seriously, but he’s also focused solely on having a good party time. The Australian underground leader plays funky, somewhat lo-fi electro music, with live instrumentation and an equally engaging visual show. JOE ZIMMER

REFERENCE

The Detroit techno duo of Luke Hess and Brian Kage. LEE DEVITO

RIMARKABLE

As a child of funk, jazz, gospel, rock and soul, Rimarkable’s approach to DJing blends all of these sounds within the structure of house and techno. She absolutely slayed her Boiler Room Detroit performance last year, so if that is any indication, her set at Movement this year is a must-see. BROCCOLI

RYAN ELLIOTT

A Detroit native and Berghain resident DJ, Elliot’s sound combines techno and

XAVIER CUEVAS

house, blurring the lines between the genres. KONSTANTINA BUHALIS

SECRETS (LIVE)

We can’t say too much, but expect the unexpected, including but not limited to: “quirky, funky, techno and house jams…disco & boogie re-edits and the odd yacht rock & coke rock compilations.” BROCCOLI

SKREAM

Skream is primarily known as one of the early-2000s dubstep originators, and one of the genre’s greatest ambassadors (see remixes for La Roux, Major Lazer and Duke Dumont, to name a few). On the flipside, his DJ sets expand into everything from break-beat to progressive house, with a penchant for massive, club-ready drops.

JOE ZIMMER

SOLOMUN

Known as “the king of Ibiza” (though somewhat begrudgingly, according to a New Yorker profile), this GermanBosnian DJ is famous for presiding over late-night raves that go until dawn.

LEE DEVITO

SPEEDY J

Along with legendary artists such as Laurent Garnier, Aphex Twin, and Richie Hawtin, Speedy J was a major part of techno’s growth into Europe and is considered one of the first techno producers to come out of Benelux, so it’s only right that he would provide

closing duties for the Underground Stage on the first day of the festival.

BROCCOLI

STACEY HOTWAXX HALE

Known as The Godmother of House Music, Hale has cemented her legacy as one of the most important artists in Detroit dance music. Her set is sure to be a master class in style, technique, and musical history, all wrapped in the dancing spirit. BROCCOLI

STACEY PULLEN

A staple in the local club scene, Pullen has kept the spirit of electronic music alive in Detroit as part of techno’s second wave. Well known for his marathon, all-night sets, Pullen can seemingly go on mixing forever without ever sounding stale or uninspired. He’s a low-key master behind the decks whose blends will surprise and delight. JOE ZIMMER

TEE GRIZZLEY

Tee Grizzley first burst on the scene in 2016 with his mega hit “First Day Out,” which is credited for bringing Detroit’s newest street sound to the forefront of hip-hop. His latest LP Tee’s Coney Island debuted No. 20 on Billboard’s Top Rap Albums charge.

KAHN SANTORI DAVISON

TYLR_

Having helped create such legendary events as BAK DØR, Porno Disco, HUNNI, and HUSH, TYLR_ knows

how to get the party going. As a living testament to the intersection of gay culture and dance music, the freedom and catharsis of his sets are both thoroughly enjoyable and equally triumphant. BROCCOLI

WAAJEED

A visual artist, producer, and DJ who helped craft the Detroit hip-hop sound that dominated the mid-’90s. He was a frequent collaborator with Detroit’s J Dilla and Slum Village, and has worked with acts like John Legend and Cee Lo Green. KAHN SANTORI DAVISON

SUNDAY, MAY 26

999999999

This Italian duo has cultivated a following with its hard techno sound and blistering, hardware-only live sets. LEE DEVITO

2LANES (LIVE)

His bio says it best: “The sounds of tires screeching, car crashes, and fog horns in a whirlwind of psychedelic headiness.” Fresh off a European tour, check out one of Detroit’s most exciting live acts on his home turf. BROCCOLI

ADIEL

With a knack for deeply hypnotic sets and playing at storied parties and club nights throughout Italy, rising star Adiel launched the Danza Tribale imprint in 2016 as a landing pad for her

profound experimentations with the techno genre. JOE ZIMMER

ANANÉ

Hailing from the African island nation of Cape Verdeans, Anané was described by Billboard magazine as “combining earthiness with glamour and rootsdeep house music knowledge with pop wise diversity.” LEE DEVITO

AVALON EMERSON

Famous for her Cybernedits series, which offered up free downloads of oddball edits of everything from Björk to Bollywood, Avalon Emerson originally played Movement in 2018. Since then, she’s become renowned for her wholly unique DJ sets and left-field selections, while keeping the main groove club-ready. JOE ZIMMER

BLAIR FRENCH

As part of the Rocksteady Disco VIP Pop-up Stage, Blair French brings heavy balearic vibes, chilled out house and plenty of cosmic original productions to the mix. JOE ZIMMER

THE BLESSED MADONNA

Born Marea Stamper, the Blessed Madonna has exploded in popularity in recent years, appearing as herself in the video game Grand Theft Auto Online, remixing pop sensation Dua Lipa’s hit Future Nostalgia album, and hosting her own BBC Radio 6 show. She’s best known for her turntable skills. LEE DEVITO

NICK LETELLIER

COCO & BREEZY

Twin sisters who balance their stylish eyewear company with being technically accomplished producers and DJs, Coco & Breezy have had a great last couple of years. With a full international touring schedule already under their belts, the sisters bring summery, feel-good vibes to their sets influenced by their Afro-Latina heritage. JOE ZIMMER

DELANO SMITH

An oft-overlooked contributor to the early days of techno, Delano Smith cut his teeth with the late, great Ken Collier and rose to prominence at dance hall parties that pre-date the techno-house clubs of the ’90s. Having achieved mostly underground success, Delano appeared on the now-legendary compilation Detroit Beatdown Vol. 1 in 2002, propelling him into the 21st Century alongside other Detroit electronic music luminaries such as Theo Parrish and Eddie Fowlkes. This year, he might be the most encyclopedic techno DJ at the fest. JOE ZIMMER

DETROIT BUREAU OF SOUND

DBS is an experimental art group that uses techno, avant garde, and improv to create an experience. It’s most known for playing a cactus with a contact microphone fed into a synthesizer. KONSTANTINA BUHALIS

DJ GODFATHER

Godfather is one of the most quintessential DJs to Detroit’s ghettotech music and jit culture. Known for introducing the acclaimed Godzilla theme song into hip-hop music, he’s performed all over the world and has been one of Detroit’s best musical ambassadors. His last album The Killshot EP released in December of 2023 to rave reviews. KAHN SANTORI DAVISON

DREAM BEACH

With his Sleep Olympics series, dream beach has established a platform for hosting forward-thinking dance music from around the country and the world. Many know him for his work with Danny Brown’s Bruiser Brigade, but for his set at Movement, you can expect his love for ghettotech, jit, Baltimore club, and Chicago footwork to shine. BROCCOLI

EDDIE LOGIX

Playing at the Rocksteady Disco VIP Pop-up Stage, Eddie Logix brings an eclectic affinity for hip-hop, discotinged house, techno-tinged disco, balearic sunset downtempo, and everything in between. JOE ZIMMER

ELLEN ALLIEN

A role model for those that seek to establish a solid, reliable presence and career in underground electronic music. In her hometown of Berlin, she explores her various passions weaving aspects of techno, rave, and dance music culture through her work with BPitch, UFO Inc., and her days-long “We Are Not Alone” parties. BROCCOLI

FABIOLA

From student music collectives to the Movement stage, Fabiola has made a name for herself with a sound that lurks within the depths of acid and

bass. For fans of Interdimensional Transmissions and the like, this one’s for you. BROCCOLI

FATIMA HAJJI

Hard Techno DJ and label owner bringing grooves and a fresh sound to the scene. KONSTANTINA BUHALIS

FLOATING POINTS

Floating Points (aka Sam Shepherd) receives most of his critical praise for virtuosic compositions and collaborations with orchestral musicians. However, in addition to his highly-lauded collaborative album with jazz legend

Pharoah Sanders, Shepherd is also known for his un-Shazam-able, mindmelting DJ sets that can extend to four hours and beyond. Recommended for fans of Four Tet or Caribou — but if you’re a fan of these acts, odds are you’re already planning to catch Floating Points. JOE ZIMMER

HÉCTOR OAKS

Hailing from Berlin via Madrid, this DJ is known for his mixing skills and selection. LEE DEVITO

HEIDY P

Hopping over from NYC to hold it down

ANDRE MOORE

at the Rocksteady Disco VIP Pop-up Stage, Heidy P’s cheery productions and love of vocal house and disco are the perfect compliment to summer in the D. JOE ZIMMER

I HATE MODELS

Occasionally throughout the festival, the Underground Stage will beckon me with its siren’s call. The range of I Hate Models’ sound from hard techno to ’90s trance to ambient is the perfect potent blend to transport you to another realm down there. Just remember to breathe and drink plenty of water. JOE ZIMMER

JACOB PARK

Texture founder Jacob Park is a mainstay in Detroit’s underground music scene. His explorations of sound are informed by his fascination with world building, which manifests itself somewhere between the psychedelic and the sensory. Expect wonky techno, left-field bass, and anything else that will stretch your brain a bit. BROCCOLI

JAMES BLAKE (DJ SET)

JOSEPH

CAPRIATI

Hitting the decks at only 11 years old, Capriati has become larger than life, with an extensive touring schedule, and incredible sets that bring the Italian nightlife stateside.

KONSTANTINA BUHALIS

K-1

As a co-founder of the bombastic electro duo Aux 88 (who played the Detroit stage at the 2023 festival), Keith Tucker played a role in developing Detroit’s unique identity within electronic music throughout the ’90s. With a renewed focus on his DJ practice, K-1 is ready to school the kids in the old way, which sounds new even today. JOE ZIMMER

While most know Blake for his innovative songwriting, off-kilter piano playing, and experimental R&B-tinged vocals, his earliest releases were hard-hitting U.K. bass and dubstep. These productions showed a love for ’90s R&B and hip-hop, fused with progressive electronic compositions. Blake’s own tracks can often be quite skeletal, but behind the decks he builds rich, heavy layers and ups the energy. He’s sure to give a nod or two toward Detroit’s local musical heritage while he’s spinning in the city. JOE ZIMMER

KEVIN SAUNDERSON B2B IDRIS ELBA

The Wire actor Idris Elba is also a DJ, slated to perform a b2b set with Detroit’s own Kevin Saunderson. LEE DEVITO

LADYMONIX

If you’ve caught a Ladymonix set at one of her numerous residencies around Detroit (Motor City Wine, Temple Bar, Spot Lite, etc.), you know how she can move a crowd. Last year she released an EP of highly charming tracks on the esteemed Studio Barnhus label titled Welcome 2 My House, further cementing her place as one of the best house selectors and music makers around. JOE ZIMMER

MASTERS AT WORK

What’s in a name? Well, in this particular, there’s a whole lot of truth. Masters At Work (MAW) is the duo of Louie Vega and Kenny “Dope” Gonzalez, and widely lauded as one of the greatest remix artists of all time giving everybody from Michael Jackson, to Jamiroquai, to Daft Punk the treatment, with the remixed versions sometimes becoming more popular than the originals (at least, on the dancefloor). JOE ZIMMER

MOONLIGHTER

Taking a spin at the Rocksteady Disco VIP Pop-up Stage, Moonlighter brings their minimal, experimental version of house and disco to the fest. JOE ZIMMER

MOUNT KIMBIE

Constantly innovating and iterating on their sound, Mount Kimbie defies expectations while continuing to produce quality, forwardthinking music. Listening to their 2010 release Crooks & Lovers next to their most recent record The Sunset Violent is a wild trip worth taking.

BROCCOLI

MUSCLECARS

Musclecars is currently one of the most sought-after acts in contemporary NYC nightlife, blending a mix of disco, house, soul and jazz. Their debut album Sugar Honey Iced Tea! just released right before Movement, a collection of intentionally crafted songs that offer a lens into the Afro-American experience. These are young sonic storytellers, so listen closely and deeply. JOE ZIMMER

DAVID CHABEN

NICOLE MOUDABER

Whether it’s in music or fighting for social justice, Nicole Moudaber goes fullforce. Unapologetically passionate, she even has a double-life as a professional race car driver, which makes sense. With her Mood event series and In The Mood radio show, she has been able to cultivate an impressive and dedicated fan base around the world. BROCCOLI

PETER CROCE

A Detroit-based DJ, producer, crate-digger, and head of the boutique vinyl label Rocksteady Disco, which he founded a decade ago (and gets its own VIP pop-up stage on Sunday with Blair French, Eddie Logix, Heidy P, and Moonlighter).

LEE DEVITO

RICHIE HAWTIN

Known for his work under the name Plastikman and F.U.S.E., Hawtin’s minimal sounds have thrilled the scene for decades. KONSTANTINA BUHALIS

RON TRENT

Around the same time Detroit was drawing up blueprints for techno, Chicago was doing the same with house

music. Trent is one Chicago’s house architects, and most don’t go nearly as deep as he dares to go. Does a machine have a soul? Mr. Trent certainly found it. If you call yourself a house music lover, you’d be remiss to not catch his set. JOE ZIMMER

SAMA’ ABDULHADI

Palestinian DJ and producer Sama’ Abdulhadi is no stranger to conflict and perseverance. Through her childhood spent between Jordan and Palestine, into her years in Beirut studying sound design and discovering techno after hearing a set from Satoshi Tomiie, and now as an internationally recognized talent in electronic music, Abdulhadi has demonstrated a fervent commitment to representation and growth as a person and as an artist. BROCCOLI

THE SAUNDERSON BROTHERS

With the essence of early techno in their DNA, the Saunderson Brothers mix in modern beats to create a smooth tech-house vibe during their sets. They’ll warm up the KMS Records showcase before Kevin Saunderson takes the stage later in the night. JOE ZIMMER

SHEEFY MCFLY B2B AK

If you drive around Detroit you’ll see Sheefy McFly’s artistic fingerprints all over it. McFly is a multidisciplinary artist known just as much for rapping and DJing as he is for his murals. As a musician, Sheefy combines Detroit street lyricism with ’90s ghettotech nostalgia.

KAHN SANTORI DAVISON

STS (LIVE)

Texture resident and aspiring potato farmer STS exhibits an unwavering dedication to his craft, constantly pushing his knowledge and talents to the edge while maintaining an air of control and resolve. Digging through the depths of heavy techno while incorporating danceable rhythms and some ethereal nods to ambient music, his live sets are a musical journey and a glimpse into the mind of a madman.

BROCCOLI

T.LINDER B2B DJ SEOUL

Expect a mix of Detroit techno, electro bass, and turntablism from this duo, which boasts a combined half-century of musical experience. LEE DEVITO

TAMMY LAKKIS

If there is a “DJ of the moment” in Detroit, most people would probably say it’s Tammy Lakkis. The title of her Temple Bar residency — Fun House of Fun — should tell you all you need to know. Lakkis can stir up a party anywhere she goes, while often highlighting sounds from the Arabic diaspora and performing genre-defying hardware sets, equally likely to play flirty house, heavy bass piledrivers, and techno classics. Don’t leave Detroit without catching at least a bit of her — that would be embarrassing.

JOE ZIMMER

TEKNONO

A rising Detroit house and techno artist, TekNoNo also heads up Kevin Saunderson’s KMS Records label.

LEE DEVITO

TIGA

Tiga is a hard one to pin down, operating somewhere between synth-pop bad boy and minimal electro-house DJ. It’s kind of like if one of the Kraftwerk mannequin robots ran away from home in the ’90s and started throwing raves in Montreal.

JACOB MULKA

LASKOWSKA

tive sets that call dancers to the floor like the Pied Piper. JOE ZIMMER

DJ CENT

As a part of the lesser-known and underappreciated history of women in the origins of Detroit’s dance music scene, DJ Cent is a well of knowledge and experience that calls the likes of DJ Minx, K-Hand, and Stacey Hotwaxx Hale her peers. For those unfamiliar, check out the special 700th episode of Resident Advisor’s RA Exchange series, which is a collaboration with local promoter Blueprint and features conversations between DJ Cent, DJ Minx, and local torchbearers DJ Etta, Blackmoonchild, and AK. BROCCOLI

DJ MINX

Sure to be an entertaining set to not just hear but also watch. Expect smooth, sexy fashion runway sounds. JOE ZIMMER

WILL CLARKE

If you start an Ibiza residency at the age of 17, the road will eventually lead you to Movement. A prolific remixer for the biggest names in dance music, Will Clarke is a professional of the international festival circuit through and through. JOE ZIMMER

MONDAY, MAY 27

ANT TC1

Born Anthony Crook, Ant TC1 is a prominent figure in the Drum and Bass scene, co-founding Dispatch Recordings in 2001

LEE DEVITO

ARMANNI REIGN

A versatile MC who has performed with many drum and bass and dubstep acts.

LEE DEVITO

AUGUSTUS WILLIAMS

As a 20-plus-year veteran of Detroit’s electronic music scene and the head of Artist Relations at Techno Snob, Williams has already earned his spot at the table but continues to play like he’s got something to prove. A member and resident with the Detroit-Berlin Connection, his talents have brought him to dance floors around the world, further sharpening his skills as a DJ and live performer.

BROCCOLI

AZZECCA

A Chicago-based DJ and producer with a love for the darker sides of house and disco. LEE DEVITO

BORDERLAND (JUAN ATKINS & MORITZ VON OSWALD)

Borderland is the result of decades of behind-the-scenes creative relationship between pioneer of Detroit techno Juan Atkins and Tresor’s Moritz Von Oswald. Having released two records in 2013 and 2016, the duo embraces their combined decades of experience in electronic music to study and explore its foundational elements, challenging listeners to take their time and lose themselves in the disarming simplicity of each track. BROCCOLI

BOYS NOIZE B2B VTSS

Get a taste of the European DIY with two of its stalwarts going B2B. Both VTSS and Boys Noize have achieved plenty of commercial and industry success in recent years, while still maintaining an appreciation for and from the underground communities from which they came. Expect banger after banger, with plenty of original productions and collaborations mixed in. JOE ZIMMER

BRITISH MURDER BOYS

Ahead of their debut album, Active Agents and House Boys, coming out on Downwards later this year, Regis and Surgeon are bringing their British

Murder Boys project to Hart Plaza. Their 2012 cover of Lou Reed’s “Real Good Time Together” is just as disorienting as it sounds, and while it may not be representative of the rest of their discography, it represents a collaborative freedom that will be exciting to see in-person. BROCCOLI

BRUCE BAILEY

A tireless figure in the local house scene, Bailey is a career DJ who has supplied countless hours of music to every corner of the metro Detroit club scene. A true party starter, he can read and respond to a crowd like no other. JOE ZIMMER

CHRIS LAKE

For nearly two decades, the U.K.-born, L.A.-based producer has racked up hits, starting with 2006’s “Changes” featuring Laura V. LEE DEVITO

DBRIDGE

This British producer is considered a founding father of drum and bass and has since branched out into house and techno. LEE DEVITO

DEE DIGGS

First finding footing in the queer dance parties of Brooklyn, Dee Diggs now brings the tenets of house music all over the globe. She leans into an old-school NYC sensibility, letting her tracks play out without fussing too much with the mix. This creates deeply soulful, seduc-

There’s not much more to say about Minx than hasn’t already been said, as her star continues to rise over 30 years into her DJ career. She played at the very first version of Movement (then Detroit Electronic Music Festival) in 2000, and is now in the third year of curating her own House Your Life stage at the festival. Her onstage posse always runs the deepest and her crowd is always filled with beautiful people — overall, immaculate vibes.

DJ TENNIS B2B

GERD JANSON

JOE ZIMMER

DJ Tennis and Gerd Janson are an unexpected match made in heaven. The Italian DJ Tennis started out his music career managing punk bands and currently runs his own esteemed label Life and Death Records, while German Gerd Janson cut his teeth at Mannheim’s legendary Milk Club and currently runs his own label Running Back with partner Thorsten Scheu. Despite their unique backgrounds, the two have converged in a playful exploration of the music that they love, captivating crowds around the world. BROCCOLI

DRS: IN SESSION (FT. DOGGER)

The British MC DRS teams up with DJ Dogger for explosive drum and bass. LEE DEVITO

DRUMMER B

Emerging from Detroit’s hip-hop scene, Drummer B, aka Leonard Ware, has branched into ghetto-tech, techno, and other sounds. His latest project A.O.A (Age of Aquarius) channels the sci-fi, subaquatic sounds of the late Detroit techno group Drexciya. LEE DEVITO

FATBOY SLIM

A wise man once said: Walk without rhythm, and it won’t attract the worm. LEE DEVITO

KATIE

GOLDIE

Initially a graffiti artist, Goldie became well-known for sporting a set of gold teeth as well as his pioneering work in 1990s U.K. jungle, drum and bass, and breakbeat hardcore scenes. In addition to playing a DJ set earlier in the day, Goldie will also help close the festival with a special performance featuring a live band. LEE DEVITO

GORGON CITY

This U.K. electronic music production duo has soared to the top of the charts in the past decade with its bass-driven dance music. LEE DEVITO

HIROKO YAMAMURA

Chicago house and techno act with goth and industrial influences. Yamamura’s inspiration comes from anime and science fiction combined to make a dark techno sound. If you watched Toonami, this is the set for you.

KONSTANTINA BUHALIS

HONEY DIJON

With a list of mentors including Derrick Carter and Danny Tenaglia, and cutting her teeth in Chicago while leveling up in New York City, Honey Dijon was destined to be the global phenom that she has now become. Garnering praise from both club kids and pop divas (Beyoncé and Madonna, to name a few), Honey plays well with this dichotomy and delivers an unrivaled blend of chaos and style. JOE ZIMMER

HORSE MEAT DISCO

Launched in 2004 as a queer underground basement party in London, Horse Meat Disco is a collective of four DJs who spread their love of disco around the world. LEE DEVITO

INDIRA PAGANOTTO

This young DJ and producer from Madrid has made a name for herself with a signature psy-trance sound. LEE DEVITO

JAGUAR

DJ Mag’s Underground Hero 2023 and host of Introducing Dance on BBC’s Radio 1, Jaguar is an ambassador for U.K. dance music and all that it has to offer. Her mixes ebb and flow between smooth house-infused vibes, energizing percussion, and hip-hop and R&B samples that lend a familiar sound to her genre-defying selections. BROCCOLI

JOHN COLLINS

Before techno truly took shape, it was John Collins at the forefront of the progressive, post-disco era in Detroit. He’s gone on to mentor countless young producers and DJs and currently manages Submerge (Underground Resistance’s HQ). The soul and spirit of Detroit elec-

tronic music lives in John Collins, and he’s an expert at channeling it right into your ear holes. JOE ZIMMER

KINKY P

A mostly vinyl selectress from Chicago with a love of reggae. LEE DEVITO

LTJ BUKEM

This British producer and DJ is known for bringing a softer, jazzier side to the drum and bass style. LEE DEVITO

MARTYN

Few on the festival lineup this year are quite as uncategorizable as Martyn, who keeps very busy between running his own label, a residency in Berlin, touring internationally, and all the while mentoring and teaching emerging talent. While his musical world is expansive, it’s mostly rooted in the U.K. club aesthetic, with left-field or jazzy flourishes to keep you on your toes. JOE ZIMMER

PATRICK MASON

This Berlin-based techno and house DJ exploded in popularity after livestreaming sets from his living room during the COVID-19 lockdowns. He’s also a creative director and designer known for his love of fashion. LEE DEVITO

PATRICK RUSSELL

A Detroit-bred DJ with deep ’90s Midwest rave sensibilities, Russel is now a resident at the legendary Bunker New

York parties in Brooklyn. Expect some gritty drums, acid flares and sprinkling of IDM rhythms. JOE ZIMMER

SETH TROXLER

Born in Kalamazoo and raised in suburban Detroit and descended from a family of cowboys and Baptist preachers, Troxler is a bit of an enigma. But you wouldn’t know it from his show-stopping reputation in dance music, having earned a spot as one of the most soughtafter and well-traveled DJs in the world. Since debuting at Panorama Bar at only 18, Troxler has built an impressive career that includes Grammy nominations, collaborations with the Met in New York, and much more. Plus, he knows how to throw one hell of a party. BROCCOLI

SKIN ON SKIN

Sundanese by way of Australia tech house, Skin on Skin is all about the groove, classic sounds, and 909.

KONSTANTINA BUHALIS

SOMETHING BLUE

As a student of the game and a lifelong supporter of Detroit’s dance music scene, something blue is constantly searching for the very best in techno, ghettotech, electro, house, and more. As a representative of the city’s new wave of young DJ’s, she’s committed to moving with integrity and making her mark on the city that she calls home, which she does in part through her residencies at Marble Bar, Spot Lite, and Temple Bar.

BROCCOLI

SPECIAL REQUEST

Special Request is one of many aliases for Paul Woolford, a veteran of the U.K. and international DJ circuit for 20-plus years. Under this moniker, Woolford veers more into breakbeat and hardcore, but also loses himself in experimental techno and jungle tracks. He’s a hard one to pin down.

JOE ZIMMER

TAMA SUMO B2B LAKUTI

This power DJ duo and longtime residents of Berlin’s legendary Panorama Bar bring their loose, impeccable house-driven sound to Detroit. While most think of techno as the primary Detroit-Berlin connection, Tama Sumo and Lakuti bring an open-format style that plays well to the cities’ extremely wide breadth of musical history, ranging from disco, to industrial, to vocal house bangers. JOE ZIMMER

TERRENCE PARKER

Born and raised in Detroit, Terrence Parker is the type of artist that has built a career out of staying true to himself. He released his first techno EP in 1988 as part of Separate Minds with Lou Robinson and Marc Kinchen, and his talents as a DJ and producer have been on full display ever since. His catalog boasts releases on labels such as Quantize, Planet E, Defected, and many more, and while he has played at festivals and clubs around the world, his sets in his hometown are always something special. BROCCOLI

KATIE LASKOWSKA

WHAT’S GOING ON

Select events happening in metro Detroit this week. Be sure to check venue website before events for latest information. Add your event to our online calendar: metrotimes. com/AddEvent.

MUSIC

Wednesday, May 22

John Garcia (performing Kyuss, Hermano, Slo Burn), Jared James Nichols, Telekinetic Yeti, Left Lane Cruiser 6 p.m.; The Crofoot Ballroom, 1 S. Saginaw, Pontiac; $45.

Me Nd Adam, Moravian, Perfect Strangers 7 p.m.; Sanctuary Detroit, 2932 Caniff St., Hamtramck; $16.

A Night of Detroit Stars (benefit for Covenant House Michigan) with Ben Sharkey, Carolyn Allen, Dames Brown, Detroit Sound Machine, Detroit Youth Choir, Dewight Braxton Jr., Gabriel Brass Band, and more 6-11 p.m.; Sound Board Theater, 2901 Grand River Ave, Detroit; 1$00.

The Art Gray Noizz Quintet, Deadsurf, Golden Hoods 7 p.m.; Small’s, 10339 Conant St., Hamtramck; $12 advance, $15 day of show. The Decemberists 7 p.m.; Royal Oak Music Theatre, 318 W. Fourth St., Royal Oak; $44.50-$84.50.

Thursday, May 23

Eva X, Vanilla Sugar 7 p.m.; Small’s, 10339 Conant St., Hamtramck; $12 advance, $15 day of show.

Symphony X, Heathen 7:30 pm; The Token Lounge, 28949 Joy Rd., Westland; $35.

Friday, May 24

Get The Shot, Life Cycles, Dead Hang, Dead Wrong, Lockdown 6 p.m.; Sanctuary Detroit, 2932 Caniff St., Hamtramck; $15.

Kickstand Productions Presents: EMO NITE 8 p.m.; Magic Bag, 22920 Woodward Ave., Ferndale; $18.

Lily Bones, Death Dance, Saving Throw, Cicrus and Greg Blucher & The Degens 6 p.m.; Pike Room, 1 S. Saginaw, Pontiac; $15. NEW ROCK REVIVAL: Savage Reaction, Strange Generation, FADED, Don Puglisi & Fall Down Pretty, NightShift 6 p.m.;

The Token Lounge, 28949 Joy Rd., Westland; $15.

Paul Anka: Seven Decades Tour 8 p.m.; Caesars Palace Windsor - Augustus Ballroom, 377 E. Riverside Dr., Windsor; $33-$93.

The Detroit Doors (Doors tribute) 8 p.m.; The Crofoot Ballroom, 1 S. Saginaw, Pontiac; $20-$40.

X Ambassadors, New West, Rowan Drake 6:30 p.m.; Saint Andrew’s Hall, 431 E. Congress St., Detroit; $28.

Saturday, May 25

Brotha Earth, The Santana Project 9 p.m.; Diamondback Music Hall, 49345 S. Interstate 94 Service Dr., Belleville; $25-$120.

Echo & the Bunnymen, Via Mardot 7 p.m.; The Fillmore, 2115 Woodward Ave., Detroit; $37.50-$77.50.

Live Music on the Porch: Shadow Glass, Wireburner, Selma Oxor, Todd Modes, Seb, Drty WrK noon-6 p.m.; Detroit Contemporary, 487 W. Alexandrine St., Detroit; no cover.

Mazinga, Angel Of Mars, Winds Of Neptune, Solar Drip 8 p.m.; Blind Pig, 208 1st St., Ann Arbor; $10. Night of the Already Dead: Cop Funeral, Painted Faces, Mezzanine Swimmers, Aporrheta, DJ PRINCESS MOTH MOTHY

MOTH MOTH 7:30 p.m.; Spread Art, 5141 Rosa Parks Blvd., Detroit; $10.

Tab Benoit 7:30 p.m.; The Token Lounge, 28949 Joy Rd., Westland; $35-$200.

West Coast Takeover: E-40 & B-Legit, Too Short, Dj Quik, Tha Dogg Pound, Mack 10, Above The Law 8 p.m.; Fox Theatre, 2211 Woodward Ave., Detroit; $69-$179.

Sunday, May 26

Born of Osiris, Attila, Traitors, Extortionist, Not Enough Space, Already Over, and more 5 p.m.; The Crofoot Ballroom, 1 S. Saginaw, Pontiac; $30.

Monday, May 27

Conjunto Rio Grande: Celebrando Memorial Day en Detroit 7 pm; The Crofoot Ballroom, 1 S. Saginaw, Pontiac; $50-$200.

DJ/Dance

Adult Skate Night 8:30-11 p.m.;

22-28, 2024 | metrotimes.com

Lexus Velodrome, 601 Mack Ave., Detroit; $5.

Tuesday, May 28

ERRA, Make Them Suffer, Void of Vision, Novelists 6 p.m.; Saint Andrew’s Hall, 431 E. Congress St., Detroit; $23.

DJ/Dance

B.Y.O.R Bring Your Own Records Night 9 p.m.-midnight; The Old Miami, 3930 Cass Ave., Detroit; no cover.

ART

Artist talk

She Shall Rise From The Ashes Artist Talk Artist talk and reading with the artists from She Shall Rise From The Ashes including: Desawna “SIS” Buford, Halima Afi Cassells, jessica Care moore, Marsha Music, Maya Wynn Boyd, & Melba Joyce Boyd. Wednesday, 4-6 p.m.; Detroit Contemporary, 487 W. Alexandrine St., Detroit.

Art opening

Detroit Shipping Company r.k.M.x.x: Blurred Binaries: A Study in Adrogyny - curated by Disco Walls; no cover; Thursday, 6-9 p.m.

Maple Beach, Kensington Metropark Kensington Art Fair; May 25-27; Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Monday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

CAR CULTURE

Gateway Classic Cars of Detroit Caffeine and Chrome - Classic Cars and Coffee; Saturday, 9 a.m.noon.

COMEDY

Improv

Go Comedy! Improv Theater Go Comedy! All-Star Showdown; $20; Fridays, Saturdays, 7:30 & 9:30 p.m.

Stand-up

Flagstar Strand Theatre for the Performing Arts YAB Charity Comedy Show; $30-$60; Saturday, 7:30 p.m.

Mark Ridley’s Comedy Castle

Jason Jamerson, Robyn Gilleran, Robert Horton; $25; Thursday, 7:30-9 p.m.; Friday, 7:15-8:45 p.m.; and Saturday, 7-8:30 p.m.

Open mic

The Independent Comedy Club at Planet Ant Tonight vs Everybody: Open Mic Comedy; $5 suggested donation; Thursdays, 9 p.m.

SPORTS

Baseball

Comerica Park Detroit Tigers vs. Pittsburgh Pirates; Thursday, 6:40 p.m.; Friday, 6:40 p.m.; Saturday, 1:10 p.m., Sunday, 11:35 a.m. and 1:40 p.m.; Friday, 6:40 p.m.; Tuesday, 6:40 p.m.

THEATER

Performance

Detroit Public Theatre Clyde’s; $47; Through June 2, 1 p.m.

Detroit Repertory Theatre Between Riverside and Crazy; $25 in advance, $30 general admission; Fridays, 8 p.m., Saturdays, 3 p.m. and 8 p.m.; and Sundays, 2 p.m.

Matrix Theatre Company I’m the Joke: The Life, Stand-up, and Academic Research of Craig Draheim; $20-$35; Fridays, Saturdays, 8-9 p.m., and Saturday 3-3:15 p.m.

Plowshares Theatre The House That Will Not Stand; $15 -$49; Thursday 7:30-9:30 p.m., Friday, 7:30-9:30 p.m.; Saturday, 8-10 p.m., and Sunday, 2-4 p.m.

Caesars Palace Windsor - Augustus Ballroom Menopause the Musical #2 - Cruising Through “The Change”; $33-$43; Sunday, 3 & 8 p.m.

MISC.

Fisher Theatre - Detroit Wheel of Fortune Live!; Thursday; 7:30 pm. Saint Andrew’s Hall Boulet Brothers’ Dragula: Season 5 Tour; $40.50; Thursday, 7 p.m.

Novi BBQ Fest: Ribs & Whiskey Friday, 4-10 p.m.; Saturday, noon10 p.m.; Sunday, noon-10 p.m.; and Monday,noon-9 p.m.; Fountain Walk Mall, 44125 Twelve Mile Rd., Novi; $7 advance, $10 at door.

FOOD

Bánh mì bliss

By Jane Slaughter

Quán Ngon

Vietnamese Bistro

30701 Dequindre Rd., Madison Heights 248-268-4310

Sandwiches $7.50-$8.50, soups $14-$17, rice or noodle entrées $14.50-$18

Quán Ngon was mentioned in a recent Metro Times list of best area hole-in-the-wall restaurants. It doesn’t fit my idea of such: with a dozen wellspaced tables, it’s not small; it’s clean; it has a very long menu; it’s the opposite of dingy, with crystal-adjacent chandelier light fixtures. Don’t go expecting a dive-bar atmosphere, if that’s your bent. Go for the bánh mì.

This quintessential Vietnamese sandwich is enough to return for again and again, and at $7.50 for three sliders, a bargain. A crisp baguette, toasted or not, is spread with housemade chicken paté; choose grilled chicken, beef, or pork for your additional protein. My pork was lightly caramelized for a bit of sweetness. The mayo is made in-house too, the Vietnamese way, without egg whites or vinegar, just yolks and oil. Pickled carrots add tang and cilantro finishes it off. Bánh mì is a triumph in general,

a result of local people appropriating from French colonizers, but Quán Ngon’s version is superb. Manager Lam declined to reveal his baguette source, saying it had taken years to find the right supplier. The bánh mì is also available in regular sizes or deconstructed with a sunny-side-up egg.

My second favorite dish was braised duck soup, which is on the list of “traditional dishes” and labeled “limited,” so it might sell out some days. (Some others, such as the bánh mì, are designated “popular.”) A duck leg quarter is slow-cooked with Chinese herbs and then sits in its sauce for an hour to absorb the juices. It’s served in an impressively large bowl of broth with skinny egg noodles, scallions, and shiitakes. Bean sprouts, sprigs of basil, and lime are on the side to add at your pleasure. You’ll have to remove the leg to a side plate for cutting if you don’t want to splash; both Western utensils and chopsticks are provided. Again there was a hint of caramel flavor in the fatty skin, making this a sumptuous dish, at only $17.

Another “popular” traditional dish is Canh Bún — but when I asked for it, the server warned that it was “popular with Asian people.” (“It has a lot going on,” she said.) It’s an enormous, clear tomato-based soup with thick

vermicelli, crab and chicken patties, a pork roll, tofu, lots of greens, and congealed pig blood. If the latter is a turn-off, don’t fear; it’s a little gray rectangle, floating in the soup, that has a faint taste of liver. It’s better than the chicken patty, which was rubbery. Lime, shrimp paste, and chili paste come on the side.

Quán Ngon serves 13 kinds of pho, with every combination of beef brisket, oxtail, meatballs, tendons, or tripe. There’s even a chicken or a shrimp pho, for non-purists, and a vegetarian one. I found the combination pho, which contains all of the above, pretty one-note: one good strong beefy flavor.

There are also 13 fried rice choices, mostly with plenty of meat. My companion got the double pork chop with a crisp-edged egg, fried just right. The chops are thin and somehow tender with a little crunch on the exterior. Beef, tofu, shrimp, and chicken are other choices.

Fried egg noodles are the skinny kind, stir-fried with broccoli, red and yellow bell peppers, carrot shavings, and protein. I found the “shrimp and veggies” version fine but unremarkable. As with all the dishes, there was plenty to take home for the next day.

A dozen appetizers include egg rolls, fried wontons, and coconut-crusted

shrimp with mango sauce. One night I ordered the grilled beef fresh rolls, two large ones for $6.50. The rice-paper wrap is rubbery, of course — that’s its nature — but otherwise the contrasting textures and temperatures are admirable: warm slices of beef with cool vermicelli, cucumber, carrot shreds, basil, and romaine. A rice crêpe stuffed with shrimp, pork, mushrooms, and bean sprouts was likewise an interesting combination, but I thought the crêpe retained too much grease.

There’s no alcohol but a good list of smoothies, iced coffee, and milk-tea boba drinks. I ordered chanh muối, a preserved lime drink, and found it salty, sour, and sweet all at once — “a lot going on.” I liked it but in small sips. Boba is always fun, with the tapioca pearls slurping up your oversized straw. The “original” with black tea was sweet and fine; taro and hazelnut are on offer too. When you sit down you are offered free hot tea.

Just in Madison Heights, Lam counted six Vietnamese restaurants for me; indeed, there are two others just in the same strip mall. Why choose Quán Ngon? It’s “nicer,” Lam maintains (not a hole in the wall). With 156 items, it would take you a while to work through Quán Ngon’s menu. It could be worth it, though.

Quán Ngon’s bánh mì is superb.

TOM PERKINS

CULTURE

Arts spotlight

This Detroit liquor store doubles as an art gallery

By Layla McMurtrie

Detroiters are innovative, and art is blooming on the walls of many unique spots in the city. This one, however, is among the most intriguing.

From the outside, Liquor Basket, located on Gratiot Avenue right behind the Faygo factory on the city’s east side, looks like your usual liquor store. Walking in, though, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the art lining the walls, hanging from the ceiling, and adorning the aisles.

The brain behind the unique combination is Detroit artist Dominick Lemonious, whose family has owned the liquor store for around three years. Along with Chef Montrell’s

Kitchen, a vegan eatery inside the store that stays open until 1 a.m., Lemonious says the shop has “probably the biggest variety of Black-owned liquors in the area.”

“We got healthy food, Black-owned products, and art that’s expressing people that look just like us,” Lemonious says. “This is unique because people come here already. They come in and you can’t help but notice [the art]. It’s a space where people are comfortable. Before we got here, the community had been coming to this store for like 20 years.”

Bringing art to the store has always been an idea of his, but meeting other creative minds through the

Detroit Fine Arts Breakfast Club inspired Lemonious to finally make it happen.

“I got connected with some artists like Oshun Williams, Elonte Davis, and they kind of really pushed me to make that extra step,” Lemonious says. “The first show that we had came own two, three weeks ago. It was called Love Appreciation Celebration. That was Elonte Davis and that was crazy. The DIA came here a couple times… it got a lot of a lot of buzz.”

Now, since many people still don’t know about the spot, its second and current show is titled Welcome to the Basket, featuring more than 20

talented artists, almost all based in Detroit.

“A lot of these artists don’t really have traditional gallery setting art, so are looking for a different place,” Lemonious says. “We wanted to take a show to actually specifically highlight and let people know, ‘We here, this is what we got going on, this is some of the stuff that we do in our store’… I want this space to be like, ‘When you come to Detroit, you gotta come see the Liquor Basket.’”

Lemonious curated Welcome to the Basket alongside Tzu Poré, another Detroit artist who is featured in the show and has experience laying out art exhibitions and hanging art.

Liquor Basket features a Black-owned liquor store, art gallery, and vegan eatery.

JON DEBOER

Tzu Poré’s passion for what Liquor Basket embodies hits close to home.

“They’re operating in the neighborhood that I grew up in and so it’s just an homage to when I was a kid, it was like Black-owned everything in Detroit. I feel like I’ve known that space since forever… I’m a lifelong east-sider,” Tzu Poré says. “It’s a safe space for my community, and they’re literally operating within the heart of the east side, just outside of downtown proper. It’s historically where my community has operated in commerce, entertainment, ceremoniously. It’s our area, so it’s very important to the community.”

For many Detroiters, art is seen as a luxury that is not always easily accessible, to view or to own. Lemonious’s main goal with Liquor Basket is to “bring art to the people,” and the mission is already being accomplished.

“A lot of people in the community that I live in don’t have a piece of art on the wall, art created by living, working artists,” Tzu Poré says. “A lot of my people don’t understand the value in controlling and keeping one’s narrative, by way of investing in one’s community in terms of the artifacts… I feel like we are in the state of a renaissance. Detroit is an epicenter of that. And I’m talking about where minorities of all kinds, all of us who have had a story of liberation struggle, we are finding an audience now at long last and a lot of people have created space where it’s multi-use.”

Customers are often equally in awe of Liquor Basket’s next-level ambiance. People who walk into the store thinking they’re just getting a snack or a drink are pleasantly surprised when they also get to look around at beautiful Black art while they shop.

“A lot of people probably don’t have time or don’t know where to go to the galleries or just probably never go to a gallery, so this is a space where everyone can go and they’re really excited. People are now learning how to buy art and starting art collections because we kind of influence that, they see it and they see the value in it,” Lemonious says. “Art is therapeutic. Art makes you feel good and then when you see pictures of people who look like you hanging up in a positive light, it does a lot of good for you. You’re thinking you’re just getting some chips or some snacks or whatever and you walk into a whole gallery. Little kids come here too and they get excited when they see the art, so it’s cool for everybody.”

As a visual artist himself, Lemonious has his own work up at

Liquor Basket too, featuring common themes including affirmations and sign language, which serve as powerful avenues of positive communication. One of his pieces, titled “Detroit Worldwide,” reflects Detroit culture’s global influence, and will serve as an anchor for the space, remaining on the wall throughout every show.

The artist wants Detroiters to feel his work’s motivating messages themselves when they come into the store, and learn about great local creativity in the process.

“Detroit is already an authentic city. We want to be number one at everything we do, and you can’t do that in Detroit if you’re not authentic,” Lemonious says. “There are so many crazy artists out in the city, but a lot of people just don’t know who they are, they don’t know really how to tap in, so this is a space to be like, ‘these are the people you should look out for.”

The Welcome to the Basket exhibition is up until May 17, but the walls won’t be empty for long. A new exhibit, titled Shooters Only, is going up May 24, and will focus on Detroit photographers.

“It’s hard for them to find a space to highlight their work, you really don’t see too many photographers in traditional gallery spaces,” Lemonious says. “So, we’re doing a show for Detroit photographers because they are phenomenal.”

During openings of Liquor Basket exhibitions, and following other creative events in the city, local artists often head to the store to hang out – surrounded by Black art, liquor, food, and community support.

“It’s one of the cool kid hang-out spots,” Lemonious says. “Artists, they come here and they hang out. We’ll go to a lot of shows, there’s nothing to really do after that, everybody comes back to the basket.”

To Tzu Poré, Liquor Basket is a revolutionary space that showcases the city’s growth.

“We are fine art revolutionaries,” Tzu Poré says. “We’re in a renaissance period. To me, renaissance is revolution and revolution is renaissance, and one of the main critical things that I think that people ought to know about the art that I’m doing, the art that’s coming out of Detroit at large, and Liquor Basket particularly, is, we understand that it’s all about our narrative, and it’s up. It’s our time.”

Liquor Basket is located at 3643 Gratiot Ave. Detroit. More information is available at liquorbasketgratiot.com.

CULTURE

Savage Love Mommy Issues

By Dan Savage

: Q I’m an intelligent, open-minded mom of a 13-year-old boy. Recently, I’ve found out that my son entered into an online Dom/sub relationship where he asked his “Mistress” to give him degrading tasks like drinking his own semen. Of course, his “Mistress” asked him to “prove his loyalty” by providing her with money in the form of gift cards. This is how I found out about this relationship. My Amazon account was suddenly filled with gift card purchases for this person signed from “Your Slave.” I immediately contacted this “Mistress” and advised her that she was engaged in an inappropriate relationship with an eighth grader. This kid hasn’t even had his first kiss, Dan, let alone a physical relationship with anyone. I don’t want to shame his kinks, but I’m also very concerned that this is far too advanced for a kid his age to even understand. Over the years, he’s had a fixation with women’s feet and giant women stomping on small figures (all of this in anime/manga). Again, I really want him to grow up with healthy attitudes towards sex — but this is parenting at a whole new level. Is it possible for me to dial back this very adult behavior? I’m overwhelmed already and puberty has just begun! —Mostly Understanding Mom

A: Oh, momma. You are in for an exhausting five years.

You’re gonna need to remain vigilant — monitoring your son’s online activities — while running interference. You can’t reprogram your son’s erotic imagination, MUM, nor should you waste your time trying. You can’t prevent him from getting online, but you can put filters on his devices, regularly check his browser history, and regularly remind him you’re checking his browser history — not to shame him, but to keep him safe from predators, scammers, and the kind of malicious sextortionists who’ve driven young people — particularly young boys — to suicide. The fact that your son likes following orders makes him particularly vulnerable to people tricking boys into sending them intimate pics and then blackmailing them

with threats of sending their pics and videos to classmates and family members.

In addition to telling your son you’re monitoring his online activities to keep him safe, you should tell him that you understand that he thinks he’s ready. But anyone who would give him the time of day right now much less dominate him — is by definition a terrible person who can’t be trusted with what he wants to share with someone. (And anyone who demands money and/or gift cards is highly suspect.) Let him know there are good people out there who enjoy all the same things he does but the good ones — the people he’ll be able to trust — won’t go near him until he’s an adult. So, for now he’ll just have to content himself with fantasizing about his kinks and masturbating to your part’s content.

And if you can get him safely through high school…

Your son can be a kinky adult and have a healthy attitude toward sex. The chief concern expressed to me when parents learn that their kid is kinky — when parents find the latex gloves or the diapers or the handcuffs is their kid will never find love. Pre-internet, being kinky definitely complicated a person’s search for love; the kinky person had to meet people the normal way, e.g., at work, in bars, through friends, etc., and eventually disclose their kink. This often resulted in the kinky person getting dumped and having to start over. Nowadays, kinky adults have the option of getting on kink dating and hookup sites and searching for partners who share their kinks.

P.S. I’m sure MUM would love to hear from some readers who once kinky at-risk youth and who are now healthy and functional kinky adults. What did your parents — if they found out you were kinky — say or do? What was helpful? What was harmful? Jump into the comments and share some advice with MUM.

: Q Is it possible to be in mourning for a fantasy that will never be fulfilled? I’m a 44-year-old cis het man, and since hitting puberty I’ve fantasized about sleeping with an older woman — like, a much older woman. The fantasy was always about the mature older woman and, well, that younger and more virile version of me at eighteen. But it never happened. I got married right out of college, got divorced young, and quickly married again. Now that I am solidly

middle aged and in a monogamous (and very happy) relationship, not only has the prospect of realizing this kink most likely ended, but I am finding it increasingly difficult to even fantasize about it anymore. I’m just too old to have this sort of situation be a realistic scenario. I’m not finding an older woman to sleep with anytime soon, and I’m not magically turning back into a twenty-something anytime soon. Knowing that I’ve aged out of my ultimate fantasy without ever acting on it makes it almost sad to think about. I’m not asking you that dumb and obvious question (“Is this normal?”), as I’ve reading you long enough to know the answer to that. I guess what I’m asking is for advice on how I can deal with the sadness I’m feeling about this.

—Often Life Disappoints

A: Seeing as you’re mourning a fantasy that will never be fulfilled you’re never gonna be a young stud seduced and/or seduced by a mature older woman — the answer to your first question (“Is it possible to be in mourning for a fantasy that will never be fulfilled?”) is obviously yes, OLD, as demonstrated by own feelings of grief. As for what to do about the sadness you’re feeling, well, you did something very useful with your sadness today by writing to me. While it may be too late for you to do something about your fantasy, your letter will hopefully inspire others — young and old alike to act on their fantasies before it’s too late, e.g., before they’re too married and/or too monogamous and/or too old. And here’s a fantasy-fulfillment pro tip for them: creating opportunities >>> seizing opportunities. And you’re not actually too old to realize this fantasy, OLD! While you can’t play the young and virile stud for a 50-year-old woman — you need that age gap to gape — you can play the younger and still virile stud for a woman in her mid-sixties. To do it the right way, i.e., to do it without being a cheating piece of shit, OLD, you’re gonna need your wife’s permission. If your wife one those people — one of those insecure, irrational people — who expects all of her partner’s sexual thoughts and fantasies to revolve around her, then she’s unlikely to react positively to your request for a hall pass. But if your wife doesn’t expect all of your sexual fantasies to revolve around her… if your wife doesn’t have a problem with you looking at porn… if she doesn’t get angry when she notices you noticing the host barista… getting a little tipsy and/or high together and having a conversation about your sexual fantasies and hers — AND HERS AND HERS AND HERS — might you

that hall pass.

P.P.S. Go into that conversation prepared not just to ask for a hall pass, OLD, but to offer one.

P.S. And if your wife’s been fantasizing about fucking some young stud… Yahtzee!

: Q Here are the background details: My son was once a 16-year-old junior in high school and very introverted kid. He never expressed any interest in girls or boys, but one day he comes home with a dress he bought at Goodwill. I asked him then if it had anything to do with his sexuality and he said it didn’t, although he would later come out to us as bisexual. It’s now 10 years later, and on my now 26-year-old son sometimes wears a skirt to his job as a legal assistant. I am not against him wearing a skirt if that’s what he wants, but I worry about his safety. He lives in Chicago and takes public transportation. Do I need to be concerned, or should I just let him do as he wants? He’s adult now, and he’s a smart and wonderful person. I want him to do what is right for him, but I worry about the rest of the world.

—Loving Parent In Chicagoland

A: I wanna live in a world where people can wear whatever they want without having to worry what other people might say or do. We don’t live in that world, LPIC, but your son — by being himself and wearing whatever he wants — is helping to create that world. There’s a risk, of course, that your son might attract some negative attention when he leaves his apartment in a skirt. But your son is a grown-ass man, LPIC, and I’m confident he’s calculated — and can control for — whatever risk he’s running.

P.S. Chicago, my hometown, is one of those big and diverse and consequently tolerant cities where the sight of a dude in a skirt on the Brown Line is unlikely to cause a riot. And I rode public transportation in Chicago when I was in my teens and twenties in crazy fucking outfits and lived to tell the tale. Your son should be fine.

P.P.S. Every kid in Chicagoland — regardless of sexual orientation or gender expression — should be so lucky as to have a mom like you.

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CULTURE Free Will Astrology

By Rob Brezsny

ARIES: March 21 – April 19

In the coming weeks, you will experience uncomfortable weirdness if you do the following: 1. Meander without focus or purpose; 2. give yourself permission to postpone, procrastinate, and engage in avoidance behavior; 3. ignore the interesting though challenging truths that are right in front of you; 4. hang out with people with mediocre ambitions. But you will experience healthy, uplifting oddness if you do the following: 1. Trust your instincts and intuitions; 2. authorize your spontaneity to invigorate and guide you; 3. take the straightforward path that gets you to the destination most efficiently; 4. be crisp and nimble.

TAURUS: April 20 – May 20

Mysterious energies will soon begin healing at least some of the wounds in your financial genius. As a result, I predict new powers of attraction will awaken in you, making it likely

you will add to your wealth in the coming months. To synergize these happy developments, I recommend you give yourself permission to have joyous fun as you lust for more cash. More good news: I will supplement your good fortune by casting a benevolent spell to boost the flow of riches into your bank account.

GEMINI: May 21 – June 20

When I first got my job writing a horoscope column, I wasn’t looking for it. It found me. My bike had been stolen, and I was looking for a new one in the classified ads of the Good Times, the local Santa Cruz newspaper. There I serendipitously spied a “Help Wanted” ad. The publisher of the Good Times was hiring a new astrology writer to replace Robert Cole, who had just quit. I quickly applied for the gig and got it. Ever since, Robert Cole has been a symbol for me of an accidental and unexpected opportunity appearing out of nowhere. I mention this, Gemini, because when I meditate on you lately, I see the face of Robert Cole.

on what course corrections might be necessary to serve your passionate ambitions.

VIRGO: August 23 – Sept. 22

For many of you Virgos, your health seems chronically unsettled. You may be constantly hyper-vigilant about the next glitch that could possibly affect your well-being. There’s a problem with that approach: It may intensify your fear of frailty, which in turn saps your vigor. But I’m happy to report that in the coming months, you will have an enhanced power to break out of this pattern. To get started, try this: Every morning for four minutes, picture yourself overflowing with vitality. Visualize every part of your body working with joyful heartiness. Send streams of love and gratitude to all your organs. Do this for the next 21 days.

LIBRA: Sept. 23 – Oct. 22

and find the supposedly stolen cash in the vest pocket. That is a delusional emotion. But if I am sad because my friend’s beloved dog is sick, that is emotion based on an accurate perception. I bring this to your attention, Sagittarius, because I believe it is essential that in the coming weeks you discern between the two types.

CAPRICORN: Dec. 22 – Jan. 19

Good people of Michigan!! Enjoy your cookouts, family get togethers, and the like; However, don’t forget to take a moment to remember those that gave their all for us.

CANCER: June 21 – July 22

In myths and legends, the consummate spiritual goal has various names: the Holy Grail, philosopher’s stone, pearl of great price, nirvana, alchemical gold, key of life, and many others. I appreciate this profusion of sacred symbols. It encourages us to not be too literal about identifying the highest reward. The old fables are equally equivocal about where the prize can be found. Is it in an empty desert or dark forest? In the deepest abyss, on a mountaintop, or in the backyard? I bring these thoughts to your attention, Cancerian, because the coming months will be an excellent time to conduct a quest for the marvelous treasure. What do you need most right now? What’s the best way to begin your search?

LEO: July 23 – August 22

3PM-2AM

I have good news for any Leos who are devoted to pragmatism and rational analysis. Just this once, my horoscope will offer no lyrical teasers or mystical riddles. Your pressing need for no-nonsense grit has moved me to offer straightforward, unembellished counsel. Here it is, dear: Cultivate connections that will serve your passionate ambitions. Make vigorous use of your network and community to gather information that will serve your passionate ambitions. Meditate

Many people regard the word “faith” as referring to delusional hope or wishful thinking. But I ask you to rethink its meaning — and consider the possibility that it could be an empowering force in the coming months. How? Imagine a faith that’s earthy and robust. You actually feel it vibrating in your heart and gut. It literally alters your brain chemistry, fortifying your natural talents and attracting needed resources. It liberates you to feel pragmatically excited as you pursue your goal of fulfilling your soul’s code.

SCORPIO: Oct. 23 – Nov. 21:

When I was born, my parents gave me the name “Robert.” It’s derived from an Old North French word meaning “shining” and “bright with glory.” In Middle English, though, “robert” was a designation for “a wastrel, a marauder, a good-for-nothing.” I use this dichotomy as a reminder that my own nature is a mix of brightness and darkness. A lot of me is shining and inspirational, but there’s also a part that’s ignorant and confused. And what’s true about me is true about everyone else, including you: We are blends of the best and the not-so-best. Now is a good time to draw strength and wisdom from meditating on this reality. Your shadowy aspects have important and interesting truths to reveal to your brilliant aspects — and vice versa.

SAGITTARIUS: Nov. 22 – Dec. 21

Here are some meditations on emotions. They are as key to our intelligence as our thoughts! But it’s crucial that we distinguish between emotions generated by delusions and emotions that are responses to true perceptions. Let’s say I get angry because I imagine a friend stole money from my room while visiting, but then later I put on my vest

As an adjunct to the Ten Commandments, I have formulated the Ten Suggestions. Here’s Suggestion #1: Wash your own brain at least three times a year. I’m speaking metaphorically, of course. What I mean is that like me and everyone else, you are always accumulating junky thoughts and useless feelings. Some are generated by our old, conditioned responses, and some pour into us from the media and entertainment industries. And it’s best to be proactive about the toxic build-up — not allow it to become monumental. In my astrological opinion, now is an excellent time for a regular mind cleanse.

AQUARIUS: Jan. 20 – Feb. 18

So many writers have said terrible things about our existence on planet Earth. “Life is a disease,” wrote George Bernard Shaw. “Life is a bad dream,” declared Eugene O’Neill. Life is “a vast cold junkpile,” according to Stephen King. There are thousands more of these unnuanced disparagements. Why? Here are the facts, as I see them: As tough as it can be to navigate through problems and pain, being alive in our miraculous bodies with our dazzling awareness is a sublime gift. We are all blessed with a mysterious and fascinating destiny. In accordance with the astrological omens, Aquarius, I invite you to celebrate being alive with extra gratitude and ebullience. Begin the jubilee by feeling amazement and awe for your mysterious and fascinating destiny. Second step: Identify five sublime gifts in your life.

PISCES: Feb.19 – March 20

In the coming weeks, I ask you to refrain from indulging in extreme nostalgia. On the other hand, I encourage you to explore the past and sift through memories with the intention of clarifying what really happened back then. Pluck new lessons from the old days that will help you forge smart decisions in the near future. Use your history as a resource while you redefine the meanings of pivotal events. For extra credit, create a new title for the book you may someday write about your life story.

Homework: Read and hear free excerpts from my book: tinyurl.com/ BraveBliss

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