Nashville Lifestyles Dec/Jan 2010

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LIFESTYLES

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The

MUSIC ISSUE

Ben Folds, Patty Loveless, Jason Aldean, Donna Summer, Will Kimbrough, Rascal Flatts, Taylor Swift and more ...

PARTY LIKE A ROCK STAR

100

behind the scenes photos from this year’s celebrity-studded events

VIP

Destinations where A-LISTERS escape for incredible weekends

+

tips on getting a reservation!

WIN

An au t guitaorgraphed from

L ANTEBAEDLY LUM details on pg.

15

April 2009

EAT, DRINK AND BE ENTERTAINED fabulous fine dining and live music December/January 2010 www.nashvillelifestyles.com

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features

82

61 the year in

MUSIC

Dreaming with Clara Nuts and bolts of the Nashville Nutcracker

62 PUSH PLAY

Nashville’s music scene is as vital and powerful as it’s ever been

68 ARTIST PROFILES

From hot up and comers to established acts making impact Lady Antebellum cover and contents photo by

2 NASHVILLELIFESTYLES.COM

Joseph Anthony Baker, producer Iris Baker and photo assistant Joshua Black-Wilkins.

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departments

87

127 6 LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER 13 CALENDAR 18 CITYSCAPE 36 STYLE

96 87 AT HOME

101 101 TASTE

87 Seeing Red The beautiful Red House offers historic elegance with a modern music vibe

101 All That Jazz Elise Loehr and Wendy Burch more than maintain F.Scott’s ever-exceptional standards

36 Uptown Girl Award-winning songwriter Jessi Alexander shows off the season’s most harmonious fashions at Rhythm at Music Row

92 Ever-Green Shopping Want eco-friendly shopping this holiday season and beyond?

Check out Newterraliving.com

108 Red Letter Night Red Pony hosts a challenging Slow Food dinner, thrilling guests with local cuisine

42 Person of Style —Lauren and Georgia Lewis

93 Eating Eco-Friendly Brian Breagel and Caleb Kimbley start a restaurant recycling revolution

44 In the Atlier Designer Betty Malo’s work comes of age with a bespoke line 50 Staff Solutions You Say You Want a Resolution?

94 Mr. Smith Goes to Washington Acclaimed interior designer—for the White House, no less—Michael Smith visits the Antiques and Garden Show

52 Publisher’s Picks Out With the Old

96 Santa’s Trees Is Coming to Town Jim McLeod and his Santa’s Trees staff supply your family’s favorite tradition

54 Metalhead Designer Matt Booth’s rock ’n roll aesthetic sings loud and clear with Room 101

96 Season to Celebrate Cheekwood tradition continues with holiday trees

56 How to Eat, Exercise and Live Over the holidays and every day

98 Star Power Midtown’s Adelicia provides a shining light for other developments to follow

59 The Greatest Gift of All Fitness resolutions

98 Extraordinary Homes 1581 Old Hillsboro Road

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110 Lime Light The popular eatery launches a brilliant lunch menu 112 Rum, By Gum The best rums to celebrate the holidays —and enjoy when the tinsel is gone 114 Chef’s Special The Chefs of Flyte 116 Top 5 ...

Places to Ring in 2010

118 TRAVEL 118 Working for the Weekend Short trips provide a hassle-free escape with a big return on fun 124 Hooks, Lines and Singers 30A hosts a new music festival well worth taking the time to enjoy

127 PARTIES 140 MOLL ANDERSON HOME

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welcome

We’ve Got The Beat

Happy New Year!

S TA C I E S TA N D I F E R

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Photo by Michael Gomez

If there’s one thing that brings us together as a city and as individuals, it’s certainly music. Whether it’s the hit songs played between the banter of our favorite radio personalities on the way to work each morning (I’m a House Foundation junkie) or the classic tunes that bring back fantastic memories, there’s really nothing more powerful than the impact of music on our lives. While that’s likely true no matter where you live, in Nashville it unites us in a very unique and special way. It impacts our identity as a community and gives us a status the entire world recognizes. How lucky are we to live in such a soulful place—filled as it is with such incredible talent and artistic vision?

As we compiled this issue, I was brought to tears watching a tribute to Kris Kristofferson by his peers. I met iconic songwriters for the first time and cheered on many of my friends as they accepted well-deserved accolades for their musical contributions and accomplishments.

I was especially excited about the CMA wins for Lady Antebellum. We’d completed our cover shoot before the event and witnessing their acceptance only reinforced what I’d decided much earlier: This trio is beyond special and headed for big things. Turns out my instinct was right, and this coveted cover is perhaps the best way I can truly congratulate them for being such wonderful artists—and supporters of the magazine from their early days.

As we do each year, we’ve also included several acts to watch. Some are making comebacks and others are just breaking onto the music scene. In every instance, I believe you’ll find they have two things in common: raw talent and a passion for their craft.

Our hope in sharing their profiles is that if you haven’t listened to the music they’re offering, that you’ll do so. As a fan of all genres of music, I can promise you there’s something to be gained from every artist featured in our annual music section. We focus on what’s next, but also look back on the year and who impacted the scene most. And, as we do each year, we’re hosting an event to showcase some of the greatest new acts in the area—our Sixth Annual Music in the City. You can find out more about that on page 80.

While we want you to get lost in the music and to browse our online celebrity playlists, we also hope you’ll utilize the other inclusions that complete this issue. From the ballet to weekend escapes and of course, food and wine—the best of the city and beyond is on the pages ahead. Look for our red-hot singles issue in early February.

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Volume 11 / Issue 11

December/January 2010

NASHVILLE

LIFESTYLES

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TH E MAGAZ I N E OF M USIC CITY PUBLISHER & EDITOR Stacie Standifer stacie@nashvillelifestyles.com

EDITORIAL COMMUNITY, CALENDAR EDITOR & PHOTOGRAPHER Sherry Clagg sclagg@nashvillelifestyles.com ASSISTANT EDITOR Stephanie Stewart systewart@nashvillelifestyles.com CONTRIBUTORS Moll Anderson, Joseph Anthony Baker, David Bean, Tiffany Watson Breeding, Susan Deaton, Michael Gomez, Paul V. Griffith, James Hensley, Laura S. Holder, Matt Ingle, Lisa Karvellas, Ron Manville, Anna Redmon, Jordan Rutledge, Ali Seiderman, Brooke Terry, Kay West, William Williams, Gillian Wise DESIGN/PRODUCTION ART/PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Rick Johnson rick@nashvillelifestyles.com WEB EDITOR/DESIGNER Katie Horrell khorrell@nashvillelifestyles.com DESIGNER Valerie Hammond vhammond@nashvillelifestyles.com MARKETING CIRCULATION MANAGER Kelli Dill khdill@nashvillelifestyles.com MARKETING & EVENTS DIRECTOR Lacey Greene lgreene@nashvillelifestyles.com ADVERTISING DIRECTOR OF SALES Janna Landry janna@nashvillelifestyles.com ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Liz Daniel liz@nashvillelifestyles.com Regis George rwgeorge@nashvillelifestyles.com Cathy Parsons cathy@nashvillelifestyles.com ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE & ASSISTANT TO PUBLISHER Lauren Lackey llackey@nashvillelifestyles.com CONTROLLER/ACCOUNTING Kimberly Higdon kimberly@nashvillelifestyles.com

READER SERVICES SUBSCRIPTIONS Your subscription includes 11 issues of Nashville Lifestyles per year. If you have a question about your subscription, call us at 1-888-385-6818 or reach us via email at nbaker@sunbeltfs.com or on the web at www.nashvillelifestyles.com.

Our subscribers are valued customers and vital to our success. To provide you with the best possible personal service, we handle all subscriptions and billing through our fulfillment house, Sunbelt. Please contact us at 1-888-385-6818 if you experience any difficulties with your subscription and we will work to resolve them immediately.

GIFT SUBSCRIPTIONS Nashville Lifestyles makes a great gift! Use the postagepaid subscription card found in each issue or order by phone, email or our website. A complimentary gift card will be sent with each order indicating who the gift is from and when the recipient should expect their first issue.

CHANGE OF ADDRESS When calling, emailing, or mailing us your change of address, please provide us with both your old and new address and, if possible, the order number found above the name on your mailing label. The post office only forwards Nashville Lifestyles for 60 days, so please send us your change of address as soon as you know it.

BACK ISSUES When available, back issues of Nashville Lifestyles can be purchased for $5 on www.nashvillelifestyles.com or at our office, 1207 McGavock St., Nashville, TN 37203.

Please contact Kelli Dill for back issue bulk rates at 615-259-3636.

LETTERS We welcome your letters and comments. Send letters to Nashville Lifestyles, 1207 McGavock Street, Nashville, TN 37203, Attn: Editor, or reach us via the web at www.nashvillelifestyles.com. The names and email addresses of our staff members and their individual departments are found at the right and on the “Contact Us” page of our website.

WRITING OPPORTUNITIES We are always willing to consider freelance writers and article ideas. Please send queries and/or suggestions to Stacie Standifer, Publisher & Editor, by email at stacie@nashvillelifestyles.com.

WWW.NASHVILLELIFESTYLES.COM Check us out on the web for a range of information and services, including tickets to our signature events, social photos not seen in the magazine, store locations, current and past articles, gift subscriptions and special promotions.

POSTMASTER please send change of address to Nashville Lifestyles at 1207 McGavock St., Nashville, TN 37203.

CORRECTION: In the November issue, on page 108, the photos should correctly be credited to Madison Flournoy.

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what’s new this month at

nashvillelifestyles.com

Music Issue Exclusives

Stay in the Know >Sign up for our e-newsletter to get exclusive event and promotional info.

Become a BIG WINNER >Nashvillelifestyles.com has amazing contests including an autographed guitar from Lady Antebellum. Enter NOW!

Holiday Cocktail Recipes

In addition to the thousands of PARTY PICS we already have online, we’ve compiled our very favorite photos from this past year because

Listen to what’s on these celebrities iPods: Miranda Lambert, Jewel, Holly Williams, Jessica Simpson, Jevon Kearse and MORE share their favorite playlists!

2009 was a blast!

2009 Most Beautiful People

chat With Us Our Staff’s Favorite Beauty Products

Stay up-to-the-minute on all things Nashville Lifestyles and let us know what you think with Facebook and Twitter.

Become a fan at Facebook.com/NashvilleLifestyles Follow along at Twitter.com/nashlifestyles

Top 7 Sports Bars to Watch the Game

10 NASHVILLELIFESTYLES.COM

Miranda Lambert photo by Jack Guy. Jason Aldean photo by Kristen Barlowe. Jimmy Wayne and lipstick photos by Sherry Clagg. Party Pics photo by Tonya Glasgow.

Alist

Get on the A-list >Go online and get the A-list card for great deals all over Music City. Start shopping and SAVING today!

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cityscape

December 2009 ‘Tis the season for football, great music and holiday cheer.

SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

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6, 13, 20 Afternoon Tea With Santa—The Hermitage Hotel

THURSDAY

Tennessee Titans vs. St. Louis Rams 12 p.m., LP Field

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Nashville Predators vs.

Ryman Auditorium. Columbus Blue ryman.com Jackets 7 p.m., Sommet Center

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SATURDAY TPAC Family Field Trip Series Fiesta Mexicana.

Performed by the amazing Sones de Mexico Ensemble.

Fun for the whole family. tpac.org

5 Brian Setzer Orchestra

While it may sound like this is just visions of sugarplums dancing in the heads of children, this scene is quite real.

Tickets: $35 adults, children under 12, $15.

FRIDAY

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Handel’s Messiah Nashville Symphony and Symphony Chorus. nashvillesymphony.org

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Jammin’ at HippieJack’s

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The PBS music series tapes Grammy-winner Tim O’Brien. Visitors are invited the view Renaissance Jack: The Work of Jack Stoddart— Hippies, Hill People & Other Southern Marvels. Tenn. State Museum. tnmuseum.org

MusicFest & Battle of the Bands presented by CMT

CHRISTMAS DAY Gaylord Hotels Music City Bowl College football at its best and most exciting!

Musiccitybowl.com

HANUKKAH BEGINS

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Thousands of fans will converge on world-famous Second Avenue for the outdoor block party featuring SEC and ACC pep bands and cheerleaders for this free preMusic City Bowl event.

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MUCH MORE AT

nashville NEW YEAR’S EVE

lifestyles.com

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cityscape

January 2010

Bring in the New Year with hockey and unforgettable performances.

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

MUCH MORE AT

nashville lifestyles.com

Trans-Siberian Orchestra Holiday favorites the Trans-Siberian Orchestra, or TSO as it’s commonly called, is a rock orchestra combining driving rhythms and sounds from heavy metal with classical favorites.

Sommet Center.

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Nashville Lifestyles Music in the City Acoustic performances by Love and Theft, Josh Kelley, Jessie James, Josh Thompson and Steel Magnolia.

5:30, The Tin Roof.

Georgia O’Keeffe and Her Times American Modernism from the Lane Collection of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. Through Jan. 31 www.fristcenter.org 31

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FRIDAY

SATURDAY

Harlem Globetrotters Wholesome family entertainment known worldwide.

Sommet Center

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Nashville Predators vs.

Anaheim Ducks 7 p.m., Sommet Center

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Branford Marsalis The jazz legend performs live at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center. nashvillesymphony.org.

The Affair to Care Benefits the Monroe Carell, Jr., Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt.

Entertainment by Burning Las Vegas. seyoungalumni.com

Burning Las Vegas photo by Tonya Glasgow.

SUNDAY

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VIP

pass

advertising, promotions & events

WIN A LADY ANTEBELLUM AUTOGRAPHED GUITAR Go to NashvilleLifestyles.com and enter to win an EJ-200 guitar autographed by Lady Antebellum, this month’s cover artists.

WIN TICKETS TO SEE BON JOVI LIVE IN CONCERT

Jan. 27 Kris Kristofferson at the Ryman One of Music City’s most legendary performers returns to the Ryman with a show to support his amazing new album Closer to the Bone, released on Sept. 29 (The album was produced

by Don Was, on the New West label.) At the recent BMI Country Awards, Kristofferson was given special recognition for his songwriting, something Nashville has long determined to be stellar from his early days in Music City in the 1960s, when he penned classics like “Me and Bobby McGee” and “Help Me Make It Through The Night.” Indeed, the awards show on Nov. 10 featured a host of luminaries— Vince Gill, Patty Griffin and Willie Nelson— singing Kristofferson’s best loved hits.

The 73-year-old, singer, songwriter and actor is still going strong, performing with his trademark intensity, and he’s now touring to support the album. He’ll rouse the audience at the Ryman with the power of his music, there’s no question, much as he’s been doing for the past four decades. Tickets can be found at ticketmaster.com—this is one incredible night of music you don’t want to miss.

Bon Jovi returns to the Sommet Center on April 21. Go to NashvilleLifestyles.com and enter to win tickets for the big night!

WIN TICKETS TO

ICE! AT GAYLORD OPRYLAND Visit NashvilleLifestyles.com and enter to win four tickets to ICE! featuring A Charlie Brown Christmas at Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center.

This colorful, interactive ice sculpture world with Charlie Brown and friends runs through Jan. 2. It’s hand-carved from two million pounds of ice.

ENTER TO WIN The Alan Jackson Collection recently made its debut at Cracker Barrel Old County stores across the country. The collection features clothing, food items, collectibles and more. Go to NashvilleLifestyles.com and enter to win a gift package of some items from The Alan Jackson Collection.

NASHVILLELIFESTYLES.COM Go online to find even more exclusive events and contests.

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Vinyl Victory Third Man Records brings old school cool to Nashville

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s 2009 comes to a close, the main Nashville music story might involve an entity that many on Music Row may not know much about. Third Man Records (TMR) is everything a conventional recording studio, vinyl pressing facility and mainstream retail record store is not. If anything, the SoBro-based operation is distinctive due to its founder — the now legendary rock guitarist and passionate defender of old-school African-Americanbased blues: Jack White—he of White Stripes, Raconteurs and Dead Weather fame. The quirky pop culture icon, co-featured in the recently released documentary It Might Get Loud, is so unlike the Music City industry norm—both with the sounds he creates and his approach to the craft—it is easy to overlook him, dismiss him or misunderstand him.

All the more reason why Third Man Records, which opened in March of this year, represents an important element in Nashville’s 2009 list of music happenings.

“I think it was a pretty significant deal, actually,” says Doyle Davis, a “vinylist,” co-owner of Grimey’s New & Preloved Music and one of Nashville most respected music authorities. “Third Man got a lot of press for their operation, which also directed the spotlight at Nashville. Music blogs and journalists were speculating about Jack White reinventing the music business or at least finding a new model—which is actually an old model from the ‘50s that might still work under the right circumstances. All that attention was nice for our town, which usually only gets significant national press for its commercial country music industry.”

And just like a blistering Jack White guitar solo, Third Man

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Records commands attention—as much for what it’s not as what it is. Located on Seventh Avenue South in SoBro, the facility’s front contains a tiny retail space with cool vinyl and TMR artists’ paraphernalia. Ben Blackwell, a TMR employee and self-described “Pinball Wizard,” helps oversees the little shop.

“Before we were officially open, someone—possibly me—left the front door unlocked,” Blackwell recalls. “Some fans actually got in and gave themselves a tour and took video of the excursion. But in a testament to how cool our fans are, they didn’t touch a thing and we quickly had a tutorial on how to lock a door.”

Blackwell says customer reaction has been very positive. “Just having such a wide-range of White Stripes, Raconteurs and Dead Weather titles all in the same place can be overwhelming to some,” he says. “There have definitely been customers from as far away as France and Australia—and Brentwood, too.”

Third Man Records bills itself as a “one-stop production house” featuring a rehearsal and photo studio, a darkroom, a production office and a distribution center. White (who was on the road with The Dead Weather and could not be reached for comment) produces all the albums. With its set-up, TMR can have an artist recorded and photographed in one day and have records for sale in the store within weeks. As such, TMR is injecting what it calls a “spontaneous and immediate aesthetic back into the record business.”

In addition to the White-led powerhouse trio of bands, Third Man Record artists include, among others, Dex Romweber, Mildred and the Mice and Transit (the latter a collection of local

Photos by Sherry Clagg.

BY WILLIAM WILLIAMS

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Metro Transit Authority employees). The focus is on non-mainstream music, an approach many involved in Music City’s more conventional music industry would find foreign.

“It’s real significant,” says Romweber, when asked about the impact of TMR to the rock and roll world and to Nashville specifically. Romweber lives in Chapel Hill, N.C., and says Third Man could elevate Nashville’s coolness quotient within the nation’s pop culture community. “Maybe Nashville is becoming more viable to the rock and roll world,” he says.

Grimey’s Davis says Nashville offers a vibrant music scene that sometimes feels “fractured.”

“Does the singer-songwriter crowd appreciate the house show scene?” he asks. “Do the indie kids dig the local hip-hop scene? My opinion is that fans of Jack White appreciate the significance obviously and those wanting more attention for the rock scene probably, but there are some who think he just moved here with his money and he’s not really, you know, ‘from’ here. The same haters who hate Kings Of Leon and the like.”

Davis says folks should see the “bigger picture” and appreciate TMR issuing “cool limited artifacts.”

“Personally I’m glad [White] chose to base his operation here rather than Detroit or some other city,” Davis says. “When I travel, people ask me about Jack White and Kings Of Leon instead of country music stars. And I think that’s a good thing.”

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PROFILE: Scott McClure of The Mall at Green Hills/Davis Street Land Company

BY BROOKE TERRY

T

he Mall at Green Hills offers a spectacular shopping atmosphere—one of the best in Music City. More than 100 fine stores and eateries offer quality and commitment to delivering exceptional service to their customers. Anchored by big retailers such as Dillard’s and Macy’s, The Mall at Green Hills now has some of Nashville’s finest specialty shops, including Tiffany & Co., Louis Vuitton, Burberry, Juicy Couture, Kate Spade, Sephora, Brooks Brothers, The Cheesecake Factory, Lacoste and Wolford.

Scott McClure is one of the people that helps The Mall at Green Hills make a real impact, through his work in advertising and media relations.

What does your job entail? Direct marketing activities for Davis Street Land Company (of Evanston, Ill.) and The Mall at Green Hills.

What does a typical day entail for you? Coordinate advertising, media relations and tenant relations for the Mall and its related services.

Name: Scott McClure Title: Marketing Director Hometown: Knoxville University: B.S. journalism-public relations/University of Tennessee Experience in Industry: 18 years with 10 years in real estate retail development Years in Nashville: 18

20 NASHVILLELIFESTYLES.COM

How have you been able to continue bringing in new, high-end luxury retailers given the economy over the past couple of years? Has that been a difficult or easy business opportunity? Our corporate leasing team has created a very dynamic shopping environment that attracts both upscale and luxury retailers. They understand what this area needs shop-

ping-wise and have brought in firstclass retailers like Tiffany & Co., Louis Vuitton, Burberry, Juicy Couture, The Cheesecake Factory and Nordstrom (coming in October 2011) to Nashville.

What are some other projects, events and new things coming up at The Mall at Green Hills that most shoppers wouldn’t know? What can we look forward to? We’re excited to announce the introduction of complimentary customer valet parking, now available at the Mall North Entrance between Starbucks Coffee Company and The Cheesecake Factory. This new amenity is reflective of our commitment to providing Mall customers with a superior shopping experience.

How do you handle the stress of the holidays and holiday shopping?

Stress. What stress?!

Can you give some tips to your holiday shoppers this season to lessen their shopping stress? Use the complimentary valet parking—it’s a great way to conserve energy for shopping.

How do you unwind after the big rush of the holidays? What are some of your hobbies or other interests outside of work? Spending time with my family and friends, as well as walking the trails at Radnor Lake. I’m also writing a book about the USAAF B-26 Medium Bomber in WW II.

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Uncle Classic Barbershop

Moosehead Men’s Grooming Lounge

A Scalp of a Different Type Nashville barbershops meld old and new

I

n the “old days,” no man could fathom visiting a fancy salon for a haircut. Well, the old days of barbering have returned to Nashville—with a new twist. A small, yet vibrant, core of contemporary barbershops are offering Music City men a masculine environment in which to get coiffed, shaved and shoe-shined. Led by standard-bearer Trim Classic Barber & Legendary Beauty, these hair-cutting emporiums are redefining retro. Missing, of course, is the crusty, scissors-wielding old-timer—replaced by neo-barbers who are hip, yet incorporate a classic approach.

Want a man’s haircut in a place that pays homage to traditional men’s fashion? Check the following 21st century Nashville barbershops.

Trim Classic Barber Trim Classic Barber & Legendary Beauty owner Melanie Shelley opened her 12South shop in 1998, long before the rise of the “classic styling for the modern male” man-cut philosophy.

Trim oozes a 1940s retro aesthetic, with its four Belmont chairs, theatre seats, British men’s club apothecary and gracefully aging shoe-shine stand.

“There’s a feeling you’re in your grandfather’s barber shop but getting a contemporary haircut,” says Shelley, whose lovely visage was the inspiration for the winking lady that defines the well-

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recognized Trim sign and logo.

Trim oozes playfulness, while offering even the most conservative gent an acceptable space. Shelley’s creative genius shines—from the double entendre in catch phrase “You deserve a little trim” to a shop sign that reads “Attention Gentlemen! Do Not Leave Today Without Receiving Your Complimentary Shoe Shine. And That’s An Order, Soldier.” Trim offers classic steam shaves, scalp massages, shoe shines, pedicures—and an old-timey gum machine.

Shelley relates to men who feel more comfortable in a masculine atmosphere than in a ladies’ parlor. “It’s the man-cave principal,” she says, adding that she originally envisioned a place in which a man could enjoy a fine cigar or stiff drink as much as a comfortable cut.

“We think of it as a 1940s speakeasy with top-notch modern barbers and stylists.”

Uncle Classic Barbershop Uncle Classic Barbershop opened this past June in the handsome and stylish Belle Meade Center. A perfect fit. “We like to say, ‘Classic never goes out of style,’” says owner Amy Tanksley.

After studying barbershop imagery from the 1950s and 1960s and with the skill of a grizzled cutsmith delivering the closest of shaves, Tanksley fashioned Uncle to take nostalgic cues without

Uncle photo by Sherry Clagg. Moosehead photo courtesy of April Feenstra.

BY WILLIAM WILLIAMS

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Joe’s Barber Shop

being stuffy. Checkerboard flooring and straight razors greet patrons. “Whether he leans towards Frank Sinatra, James Bond or George Clooney, the Uncle customer has a discerning eye but craves community and comfort,” Tanksley says.

Want a straight razor shave? At Uncle, that shave includes a series of hot towels and requires at least 35 minutes. Nice.

Tanksley says many men desire neither their wives’ nor girlfriends’ salons of choice— “where they have to make an appointment six weeks in advance”—nor the generic franchise at which a different stylist each visit is sometimes the reality.

No doubt, barbering is all about the details for Uncle (which also operates in Brentwood). Cookeville, Tenn.-based Collins Manufacturing crafted the masculine chairs.

Cool products from Truefitt & Hill (the oldest barbershop in the world per the Guinness Book of World Records), Geo. F. Trumper, The Art of Shaving and (for hair care) Manhattan’s upscale John Allan’s products are available.

Uncle may be new to Nashville. But its approach is timeless.

Joe’s photo by Sherry Clagg.

Moosehead Men’s Grooming Lounge Moosehead is arguably Nashville’s most unusual “grooming services industry” business. From the moose figures to the little rooms (the space was once residential) to a working bar, this Music Row barber joint

is as distinctive as mutton-chop sideburns. A sign on the door reads “No girls allowed.”

One could envision man’s man Daniel Craig comfortably seated in a Moosehead Collins barber chair, his rugged visage showing contentment during a cut.

“Its a retro style with dark wood, leather, granite, cigars and vintage photos,” April Feenstra, Moosehead owner, says of the vibe.

Feenstra wanted a manly name for her Music Row shop. When her father suggested “Moosehead,” she envisioned a moose smoking a cigar. The name stuck.

With Moosehead to celebrate its first birthday in January, the business seems likely to stick too.

Joe’s Barber Shop Joe’s is an example of “old-fashioned barbershop meets the 21st century” in that owner Joe Eagles is young and cool, and his business is only three years old and located in one of the city’s hippest retail districts: Edgehill Village. Beyond that, we’re talking “militantly old school.”

“You won’t smell chemicals for hair color or perms,” Eagles says. “If you go to a barbershop that does color, then you are not in a barbershop. It’s a salon.”

Joe’s sports a 1913 cash register, a 1920s barber chair and gritty concrete floors.

Softies need not enter.

“My grandfather was a barber,” Joe says.

The tradition continues.

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You’ll Shoot Your EYE Out!

Director René Copeland brings the classic film A Christmas Story to life on stage

BY STEPHANIE STEWART

What was the inspiration for producing A Christmas Story?

We’re always looking for holiday material that’s also a good piece of theatre. A few years back, we did a sort of radio play version of another film, It’s a Wonderful Life, and it got me thinking about film turned into theatre ... Christmas Story is usually a big cast show, but I decided to look at it anyway—there’s quite a bit of cool stuff you can do with it.

The movie is sort of ingrained in our cultural identity now—my generation’s It’s a Wonderful Life—everybody always watches it at least once during the 24-hour TV marathon. There’s something serious behind its appeal. It connects with people and says something uniquely American. The screenplay is based on an amalgam of Jean Shepherd’s writing, and I love what it says about families. I decided I wanted to take all that and find a way to make it into a cool theatre experience. I like that challenge.

What can an audience expect with this production of the show? Well, I’m interested in telling a story, and exploring ways to make it about theatre specifically—what do people get from live theatre they don’t get on screen? The answer is that live actor connection, which frees us up to do all kinds of things—we do have a script, but we don’t have to be completely literal. I’ve got an ensemble of great actors, who can play all ages, genders, even species—one gifted actor can manage to pull off both the Old Man and Miss Shields, for example—so we can spin it a little bit in our own ultraconnective ways, and let the audience help out. It’s the telling of it that’s fun.

Santaland Diaries was kind of for adults. Is this really family friendly? Absolutely, but I remind parents that live theatre has appropriate ages—your child needs to be able to easily sit through a full-length play. That said, go ahead and bring your 10-year-old.

Kids old enough to enjoy it will love it.

So, give us a little bit of your theatre background? I first came here because my husband Scott was with Nashville Children’s Theatre. For awhile, I was a focused on my kids. Then when they were a little older, I got involved myself, working with Chaffin’s Barn and the Shakespeare Festival. I helped found the Mockingbird Public Theatre with David Alford and was active there from ‘94 through 2004, then moved to the Rep.

What should the audience know beforehand? Any advice for first-time theatre-goers? I’d like them to anticipate an experience wholly unlike the movie. They’ll end up with a new appreciation for theatre and live connections. This is a great way to give theatre a try—hey, if you like comedy clubs and live music, check out theatre—I think the show will surprise and delight you in a way you don’t expect.

How do you approach directing different styles of shows?

Whatever the show, you have to feel connected to it. It has to excite you in some way as a director. That means lots of preparation, and fortunately I have very broad interests. I’ve got to be reading and researching, and have all the details of the story in my bones and DNA before rehearsal starts with actors—the director has to make herself an expert on the play and the subject matter. If it’s a musical, I’m listening to the CD in my car constantly. If it’s a straight play, I read it over and over. Then in rehearsal, it’s all about making choices. It’s always about interpretation. Hopefully you have a good group of actors to work with.

A Christmas Story runs Nov. 21- Dec. 19 at TPAC. For more information visit tennesseerep.org.

24 NASHVILLELIFESTYLES.COM

Photo by Ron Manville.

U

nless you’re actually Scrooge, you can appreciate the cinematic charm of A Christmas Story, in which 10-year-old Ralphie wants nothing more for Christmas than a Red Ryder BB gun, in spite of parental—and everyone else’s—objection. The Tennessee Rep, already renowned for producing incredible, albeit slightly wacky, live theatre Christmas shows like Santaland Diaries, now brings the film to life on stage at the hands of its brilliantly clever Producing Artistic Director René Copeland.

There’s no question she’s got her own vision, and she aims to make audiences love it as much as she does.

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Cool Hand Christian Christian Kane brings his fresh perspective to country music

BY STEPHANIE STEWART

T

he night before I wrote this, Christian Kane and his band Kane gave a scorching performance at 12th and Porter— not a showcase, Kane reminds me, just a “cool-down” for the band before they hit the road again at 6 the next morning. It’s an understatement to call the band hard-hitting, as the live sound is a bit like what might happen if the original Skynyrd cross pollinated with Metallica. (Okay, he wants me to tell you that the album is a little mellower ... it has a country/Southern rock feel to it, and it’s geared for radio play. But the live show, I can attest, as Christian Kane says “will rock your @#%&*$ socks off.”)

Even in Nashville, most readers probably know Kane from his acting career, including multiple seasons of the WB mega-hit vampire fantasia that was Angel and the current TNT lawyer drama Leverage. But Christian Kane moved to L.A. from his native Oklahoma to try his hand as a musician, and his first acting role came as a result of his musical talents—a stint on the shortlived Fame L.A. These days, he’s a part-time Nashville resident, dividing his time between here, L.A., Portland (where Leverage tapes) and Oklahoma (home). “I still live out of a suitcase,” he muses. “But you’ll never hear me badmouthing the road. I was the 10year-old kid praying for this life.”

Kane and his band have been together 10 years now, and they’re a solid entity. This isn’t a group of session musicians backing up an actor who’s decided to play at music.

Kane’s deadly serious, and the power of the work his eponymously named band, Kane,

26 NASHVILLELIFESTYLES.COM

has done together shows in their performance. “We spent five years playing places like the Viper Room in L.A.,” says Kane. “We’ve got one heartbeat; we’ve been through the blood, mud, sweat and beer together.” These days, after time with EMI and Columbia, they’ve signed with Bigger Picture Group, working with iconic music producer Bob Ezrin and well-known Nashville producer Jimmie Lee Sloas.

The move excites Kane, who loves the commitment and style with which Bigger Picture does business. “I feel like I have a home here,” he says.

He admires artists like Randy Houser and Jamey Johnson. “Man, they threw out the rule book. Those are the footsteps I want to follow in,” raves Kane. “I really just want to play music forever. I don’t want to be one of those guys who shoots up in the sky, then burns out early. If I never get to be freakin’ Toby Keith, that’s fine, as long as people keep listening and coming to my shows. I promise you, I will never be just [expletive deleted] phoning it in.”

With real musical street cred, Kane hates that in the music world, his background can make some look at him as a dilettante actor-singer, the sort that play at putting out music to cash in on their screen success.

“Look, don’t prejudge me because I’m an actor. It pays the bills. Once I figured out that the music business isn’t in love with actors, doesn’t always welcome them with open arms, well, I’ve made my peace with that—and I’m willing to kick the

frickin’ door down if I need to.

“But let me tell you, I make my living in L.A. as a professional liar, that’s acting. With music, that’s all me. I can’t lie to people.

This is important ... I put something real out, I am not playing a part. Real guy, no walls.”

Kane has a hand in writing about 90 percent of his music. “I write about my life,” he says. “You won’t hear me singing about marriage or kids or driving my tractor.

That’s not who the hell I am. Now I’ve got no problem singing someone else’s song, as long as I’m not lying, but I’m going to sing about what I am and what I know.

You’ll hear me sing about women, drinking and fighting a lot.”

With a new single and a new album (tentatively titled House Rules) hitting early next year, Kane is poised for success. If you’re in need of a wild, rockin’ and devilish sound with an edge, give them a listen. You won’t be sorry. Kick back with a cold one and relish the music.

For even more details on Christian Kane, visit to NashvilleLifestyles.com

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READ IT

Page 11

Recognized as a Thought-Leader in the use of Lasers and Related Devices

Brian S. Biesman, M.D. continues to develop and refine treatments and technologies for minimally invasive and non-invasive rejuvenation.

Historic Photos of Nashville in the 50s, 60s, and 70s Photos by Bob Grannis, Text and Captions by Ashley Driggs Haugen Turner Publishing, $39.95

The Zeltiq™ Procedure is a new, non-invasive way to gently and effectively reduce fat in targeted areas of the body. The result is a noticeable, natural-looking contour change in the treated areas, such as abdominal fat, love handles (flanks) and/or back fat.

Dr. Biesman is currently the only physician in the mid-south offering this unique treatment.

T

urner Publishing is well-known for its exceptional historic photo essays, and Historic Photos of Nashville is no exception. This gorgeous coffee table book is bound to induce nostaglia for those who grew up in the city during those decades, and evoke memories of favorite places that no longer exist. For those who don’t remember it personally, the book is an incredible look at the vast changes that swept the city from the end of World War II up through the 1970s.

Whether you’re a nostalgic resident, a history buff, or you just love wonderful old photos, there’s something here for everyone with a fond place in their hearts for Music City.

—Stephanie Stewart

Please contact our office for additional information as well as upcoming opportunities to attend an informative seminar on ZeltiqTM and other exciting technologies.

615.329.1110

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The heart of Nashville Steve Moore and The Shalom Foundation

BY SUSAN DEATON Vasquez Family Shalom surgical recipients

S

Anna Rios with Steve Moore

28 NASHVILLELIFESTYLES.COM

teve Moore is a humble man, which is surprising considering his professional accomplishments are more than impressive: Senior vice president of AEG Live!, founder of Avenue Bank, president of the Country Music Association Board of Directors and a board member of both the T.J. Martell Foundation and the International Entertainment Buyers Association. He’s worked with every major entertainer in country music, and many more in the worlds of rock and blues.

“I was raised in a really small town in East Texas. Those towns are blue collar, and the roads out of them are narrow,” says Moore. “I played music in high school and went to college in Beaumont [Texas] to study music, working my way through doing labor at refineries and shipyards.”

His career began in 1975, during a local concert by Blood, Sweat & Tears. “I didn’t have the $6.50 to buy a ticket, so I went around back and asked if they needed any help. By the end of the night, I was crew chief,” he says with a laugh. “That show was an epiphany in my life.

I went back to school and started promoting shows on campus.”

Moore has since promoted some of the biggest live shows in the world, but what defines his life currently is his work with The Shalom Foundation, a non-profit humanitarian relief organization assisting children in acute poverty in Guatemala City.

“People ask me, ‘Why did you pick Guatemala?’ I tell them, ‘It picked me.’ I was minding my own business sitting in the back of the church reading the Sunday bulletin,” says Moore.

“A men’s group was putting together a trip to build a school there, and I felt compelled to sign up.

I remember that first trip so vividly because it broke me. Digging the footers for the school, I

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Shalom Construction building a new home for a family

Typical Guatemalan lean-to home

LET’S BE FRIENDS & TWEET!

Twitter.com/nashlifestyles

& facebook.com/NashvilleLifestyles

knew immediately this was something I had to do.” Moore and a core group, including Tommy Sanders and Beverly Harro, kept going back.

Today, The Shalom Foundation has a “four-legged table” comprised of education, housing, nutrition and medical help, with which to serve Guatemala’s poorest children and their families. Construction on the Moore Center for Children’s Health is scheduled to commence before the end of 2009. It will be equipped to handle multiple children’s surgeries at no cost to the families.

Moore became aware of the dire medical needs during a construction trip in Guatemala. “I met Anna Rios on the street,” he recalls. “Her aunt brought her up to me and pulled up the little girl’s shirt. She was scarred from top to bottom. Her aunt said, ‘She’s still sick.’ We found out she’d been shot when she was 3 years old during a gang fight, and the bullet was still in her. Both her mother and father had abandoned her. It was pre-9/11, so we brought her to Nashville and found some doctors and nurses at Southern Hills who fixed her up. I

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thought, ‘Why can’t we do this?’ My dear friend Kix Brooks introduced me to the people at Vanderbilt Children’s Hospital, and we began a relationship that continues today. The missing link is The Shalom Foundation having our own surgery center and that’s happening now.�

None of this happens without people willing to help and some serious cash. The Shalom Foundation has been blessed with many supporters, including Jennifer Nettles (Sugarland), who raised money for the organization, as well as Kix Brooks and songwriter Bob DiPiero, both of whom participated in a recent Hymns, Hams & Jams fundraiser.

Singer Lee Ann Womack accompanied The Shalom Foundation team to Guatemala City and was stunned by what she saw. “It’s one thing to look at pictures of poverty. It’s another thing to go stand face-to-face with a 12-year-old girl who can’t go to school because she’s taking care of her younger siblings and lives in a tin lean-to,� says Womack. “It makes you look at life differently. It makes you appreciate more what you have, and shows you there are better ways to spend your time, re-prioritize and do things differently.� “I’m grateful for all our friends, whether they just help us one time or they stay for the long haul,� states Moore. “I would love for someone with a ‘name’ to claim Shalom for themselves, and we need everyday people to get involved too. I need your heart more than your wallet. If we can get to your heart, the rest will follow. If people are looking for something life-changing to get involved in, I say, ‘Just come on. Let’s get it on.’�

For more information about The Shalom Foundation, visit www.theshalomfoundation.org or call Allison Bender at (615) 595-5811.

Shalom School students

Page 15

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Film Fête F

The Belcourt Theatre hosts a truly distinctive Sundance Film Festival event

ans of the Sundance Film Festival probably already realize the Belcourt has worked with the iconic indie film event since 2006, via Sundance’s Art House Project, which allows them to showcase a fantastic collection of short films each year (Dec. 1112, for those planning to attend). Now, come Jan. 28, the Belcourt will play host to an even bigger event: Sundance has selected independent theatres in eight U.S. cites— four of them much bigger than Nashville—to each screen a film during the festival, along with a video greeting from festival founder Robert Redford and a feed of the festival itself with highlights from the events.

The Belcourt likewise becomes an official venue for the festival. Not just the film, but the filmmaker will be dispatched, and Belcourt patrons will have the opportunity to enjoy a question-and-answer session, before said filmmaker quickly hops a flight back to Park City, Utah, to finish out the festival on the ground.

According to Toby Leonard, the Belcourt’s program director, the final selection of which

films will be sent, and to which city each will go, has not been made. “There’s been such a positive response to it, on social media like Twitter and so on, since it was announced,” says Leonard. “We expect seats to sell out quickly, especially since we have limited space.”

Leonard points out the other cities include New York, Boston, Los Angeles, Chicago, as well as college towns Ann Arbor, Mich., and Madison, Wis. so Nashville is in great company.

Tickets go on sale Dec. 11, with more information forthcoming on the Belcourt’s web site, belcourt.org.

—Stephanie Stewart Save the Date—June 4-6, 2010 Nashville Screenwriter’s Conference This highly acclaimed event provides aspiring screenwriters and individuals interested in film and TV the chance to network, learn and explore professional opportunities within these industries. For more information, visit nashscreen.com.

SOUNDS OF THE SEASON

If you’re a fan of Christmas music, here are a few albums worth checking out —COMPILED BY LISA KARVELLAS AND ALI SEIDERMAN

Sugarland—Gold and Green Their first ever holiday album, released on Oct. 13, includes classic seasonal songs showcasing the band’s creative skills, including a bilingual, acoustic take on “Silent Night,” and a boogie version of “Winter Wonderland,” as well as five Sugarland originals co-written by band members Jennifer Nettles and Kristian Bush. This distinctive country-inspired Christmas album is surely not your typical compilation of carols.

Chris Tomlin—Glory in the Highest: Christmas Songs of Worship Recorded over two nights in Nashville, Tomlin collaborated with community worship leaders and fellow artists throughout the city to create an album of spiritual live recordings. This inspirational album includes songs like “Angels We Have Heard on High,” “Oh Holy Night” and “Joy to the World,” with an intimate touch.

32 NASHVILLELIFESTYLES.COM

Johnny Reid—Christmas Johnny Reid, a Nashville local, released his first country-inspired Christmas compilation in November of this year. Following in the footsteps of his platinum selling album Dance With Me, Reid performs soulful, upbeat tunes such as “Waiting for Christmas to Come” and “Christmas Time Again,” as well as creative renditions of old favorites.

Charlie Daniels Band—Joy To The World— A Bluegrass Christmas This holiday collection includes two discs overflowing with the tried-and-true Christmas favorites recorded by Daniels and musicians like Jewel, Aaron Tippin, The Grascals and Kathy Mattea. Every artist infuses his or her track with a traditional bluegrass style, fitting for the joyous season.

Rodney Carrington—Make It Christmas Make It Christmas offers lesser-known Christmas tracks like “Grown Up Christmas List,” as well as original music, including “The Presents Under the Tree (Better Be For Me).” The full studio band and orchestra accompaniment add rich depth to Carrington’s carols, and his message of year-round peace carries through each warm melody.

Jerry Douglas—Jerry Christmas Featuring the distinct Southern sounds of fiddles, mandolins and bass guitars, this Christmas album embodies the country sound through and through. Popular Christmas songs including “God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen” and “Santa Claus Is Coming To Town” take on a new personality when infused with Douglas’ trademark appeal.

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Custom-Made

CARE

Carla Stokes saves customers time and money with a very specialized service aptly named Bespoke Lifestyles

I

f there’s one thing we all wish we had more of (well, besides love and money) the universal answer is likely time.

Regardless of planning or good intentions, finding hours for all that we enjoy most is sometimes hard—sometimes obligations get in the way and rob us of opportunities. But are the hours at work really the culprit?

After consideration and discussion with others, I’ve determined in some instances the work load is the problem. But equally taxing is the time it takes to complete other tasks that just keep our lives in order— including keeping our pantries and closets stocked with necessities and dealing with quotes on home repair—or waiting on workers to show up and perform it. The stress extends to running countless errands and even scanning the almost endless websites researching the best choices for that much-needed vacation. Basically, with full-time work schedules and hopes for social or family life, sometimes it’s the little things that are the biggest drains on our time and energy.

While most of us don’t have the lifestyle or income to really afford a house manager

34 NASHVILLELIFESTYLES.COM

or full-time assistant, at times having a little help would be a godsend. I know this— it actually happened to me. Last month, I received a gift certificate as a thank-you from one of the city’s most savvy publicists.

Instead of treating me to lunch or a spa, she gave something a bit more original— certainly something that’s turned out more rewarding than she likely realized.

When I first received my gift certificate for Bespoke Lifestyles’ services, I was a little unsure how to go about utilizing it at all. A quick look at the website (BespokeLifestyles.com) had me more than curious. The seemingly endless list of offerings included everything from organizing closets and grocery shopping to carpet cleaning and housekeeping.

Was this for real? An initial email to founder Carla Stokes had her setting a quick meeting between us to go over the concept and discover my needs so that I could maximize her company’s help and benefits.

One immediate plus—Stokes was extremely polished and well-spoken. She explained that she chose the name “Bespoke” because the word’s definition is a custom-made

product or service.

Her goal is creating a Music City business that reflects the assistant organizations found in more metropolitan areas.

Together with her team, she works with a select group of clients to provide customized services tailor-made to suit the clients’ lifestyles. For some, it’s doing online research, which is a big part of their daily routine and expertise. For others, decorating or wrapping gifts during the holidays (or buying and shipping them).

Some just want to secure reservations or show tickets. The point is that the range of provisions is extremely diverse depending on the customer. It could be three or 30 hours a month—and that’s the beauty—and flexibility—of the business.

In my case, we decided my biggest hurdle was getting my house in order. I’ve become so busy that the idea of waiting on Comcast or getting a ladder to replace track lights seemed like torture—not to mention that my refrigerator is usually empty and every time I attempt to do laundry, I realize I’m out of detergent.

Carla looked through my house, finding

Photo by Krista Lee.

BY STACIE STANDIFER

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I had a plant that needed repotting, four broken dimmers on my lights, a closet without light, a DVD player still in the box and paint needing retouching, among other things. Less than 24 hours after we met, she’d met the cable company at my house, had my televisions in working order (which had been on my to-do list for a year), taken out things I’d meant to donate and scheduled appointments for home repairs that were past due. She scanned my refrigerator and shelves and questioned me about my likes.

Coming home from work and finding chilled Perrier, a stash of Crystal Light and an array of non-perishable food items was such a shock! She’d also found fabric I already had to make a skirt for a nightstand table, carried away the one I wanted gone— and as a bonus, placed fresh flowers on my counters. Dry cleaning was delivered and placed appropriately sans plastic and bad hangers. She found great tools at a discount store and re-organized my jewelry, belts and accessories in my closet without my even suggesting it—that alone has saved me hours of frustrated searching.

I thought I was super neat and organized before, but have found there are some secrets I definitely missed. In less than two weeks, I could tell a difference in my peace of mind and in my enthusiasm for getting ready in the mornings and heading home at night.

While the certificate has run out, I plan to keep up with Bespoke Lifestyles, as after just a bit of time, I realize just how valuable my extra time can be. Instead of standing in line at Target because I’m out of trash-bags (and always buying everything but what I was out of), I have more freedom to do other things. Yes, most of the time still goes into work, but there’s some leisure involved, and it comes without the guilt of thinking I should be taking care of those bothersome tasks.

Whether you just need help getting your home ready for that holiday party or want your home taken care of while you are away, there’s really no limit to what Bespoke can do. They have a long list of qualified vendors offering every imaginable service— from plumbing to shoe repair. For a very reasonable amount, having a bit more time to enjoy the joys of life can be yours. bespokelifetyles.com

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Uptown GIRL

Award-winning songwriter Jessi Alexander shows off the season’s most harmonious fashions at Rhythm at Music Row Visit NashvilleLifestyles.com to learn more about songwriting sensation Jessi Alexander.

DAVID BEAN: PHOTOGRAPHER ANNA REDMON: STYLIST LORENA LOPEZ: HAIR AND MAKE UP LESLEY OCHOA: MANICURIST THANKS TO RHYTHM AT MUSIC ROW

This page: Aidan Mattox gown from The Cotton Mill, Virgins Saints & Angels gold filigree cuff from The Perfect Pair and gold earrings from Margaret Ellis. Opposite: Ella Moss dress from Emmaline, vintage leather belt from Imogene + Willie, gold earrings from Margaret Ellis and Frye boots from The Perfect Pair.

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This page: A.L.C. white blouse from H. Audrey and Tibi black pencil skirt from Emmaline. Opposite: Aidan Mattox gown from The Cotton Mill, Virgins Saints & Angels gold filigree cuff from The Perfect Pair and gold earrings from Margaret Ellis.

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Black boots from Billy Reid and J. Brand Jeans from Emmaline. Rick Owens white leather jacket, Alexander Wang tank and Many Will See Key necklace all from H. Audrey.

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person of style

The go-to item in your closet for feeling your best? Probably a two-part answer as I feel my best in worn Levi’s and Ugg boots; if I must leave my yard, a Yigal Azrouel black leather jacket.

The most extravagant item in your wardrobe? My Lainey sweaters and sweater/coats. I’m allergic to wool of any kind, even cashmere. For some reason, hers don’t irritate my skin, and they are beyond comfortable. Someone told me she washes her wools in baby shampoo first.

The inexpensive product you can’t live without? Purell

& daughter Georgia FROM WORKING ON ROLLING STONE MAGAZINE TO HER time as head of media and artist relations for Island/Def Jam Records where she orchestrated campaigns for Bon Jovi, INXS, Jay-Z and Def Leppard, Lauren Lewis has always been a mover and shaker in the music industry. In recent years, she’s moved to Nashville, helped launch Lost Highway and worked with Mercury Records, with a roster including luminaries like Ryan Adams, Lucinda Williams and Willie Nelson. These days, her ties to the music scene revolve around supporting her husband Luke, whose current role is heading up Universal Music Group.

When not mixing with the Universal artists and associates, she spends the majority of her time with her precious daughter Georgia, who’s also inherited her mother’s sense of style. Whether it is training her new dog, working with Second Harvest Food Bank or volunteering at Georgia's school, Lauren always manages to always appear effortlessly chic. Here, she and her little diva share a few of their secrets to having fun and looking great!

LAUREN:

Favorite color? Orange Your favorite designers?

Temperley London, Lainey, Haute Hippie and Christiane Celle Calypso

One item you plan to purchase this season and one you already have? I would love to find a great white winter coat that doesn’t make my neck itch. I recently purchased a Haute Hippie peacock dress from Haven that I love.

Celebrity styles that you admire most?

Edie Sedgwick, Rickie Lee Jones circa Chuck Edie E’s In Sedgwick Love Magazines you reference on a regular basis?

The World of Interiors, Vanity Fair Your secrets for looking good? I wouldn’t say I look good, but I feel pretty good.

Lots of sleep and an active mind ...

Dress by favorite designer Temperley London.

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Lauren and Georgia photo by Kate Wolf.

LAUREN LEWIS

The superstar beauty, skin care or grooming products in your stash? My friend Tracey from Trace Skin Care (Traceskincare.com) has me on the Obagi system. If you can make it through the first two weeks, you’ll be hooked.

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Dinner or lunch spot guaranteed to impress a client or out-of-town visitor?

Giovanni Ristorante Bar. It’s nice to be able to eat great Italian food in Nashville.

We also love the food at F. Scott’s. Chef Will Uhlhorn is amazing, and he’s a tremendous Red Sox fan, which my husband finds priceless.

GEORGIA:

Your favorite color? Teal blue The most extravagant item in your wardrobe? A fake fur coat my Aunt Susan gave me for Christmas One item you plan to purchase this season and one you already have? I’d like to buy another scooter. I have one, but I would like another one so my friends could ride with me when they come to play.

Your guilty indulgences?

White wine, ice cream and my coconut cream cheese cupcakes

Favorite local place to unwind with friends?

The Nashville Zoo

Describe your favorite casual look that’s chic, yet completely comfortable? I would have to say a ‘60s-style dress and tall boots

What do you always have at hand when you travel? My blanket

H. Audrey

The go-to item in your closet for feeling your best? My tall fancy boots

Your guilty indulgences? Junk food.

My new favorite: Sweet Tarts Name your favorite places to shop for clothing and accessories and for your home? I love Planet Blue in Malibu and Kirna Zabete in NYC. Locally: H. Audrey, Haven and The Perfect Pair. Home accessories: ABC Carpet in NYC. I mostly love a great flea market …

The character trait that you find most attractive in others? I like funny people Favorite local places to unwind with friends? When not at our house, the Patterson House

If you could have any guest at your table, who would you have over for dinner?

Mickey Mouse

What’s playing on your iPod? Black Joe Lewis & The Honeybears, Boz Scaggs, Raphael Saadiq and Dire Straits. Clearly, I am confused.

Georgia photo by Kate Wolf.

What recent books have kept you reading into the night? The Glass Castle

by Jeannette Walls, When You Are Engulfed In Flames

by David Sedaris (all his books make me laugh out loud) and What Fresh Hell Is This?—Dorothy Parker’s biography … not recent by any means, but a great look into her crazy and brilliant mind

What’s playing on your iPod? Bob Marley, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, NRBQ and a whole bunch of lullabies to help me go to sleep

What’s your most treasured possession?

My lamb, Alberta

Your favorite cocktail?

A crisp bottle of Meursault

What’s the one trait in others that you can’t tolerate? I don’t like when people don’t share.

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In the

Atlier Designer Betty Malo’s work comes of age with a bespoke line

BY STEPHANIE STEWART PHOTOS BY SHERRY CLAGG, MODEL LAURENNE PALADINO

B

etty Malo has built her reputation in Nashville—and New York, Los Angeles, Miami and so on—with a rock n’ roll chick aesthetic under the moniker “Betty Badd.” Now, the designer comes into her own with a grown-up style, not only in jewelry and accessories, but with a clothing line, handbags, even skin care. When I say grown up, I mean that literally—it’s aimed at women in the business world. Smart, thoughtful women who know what they want, and it isn’t the stuff they see dutifully, if dully, duplicated on every chain retailer’s shelves. Instead, it’s a clean, crisp, yet wholly feminine line, intricately tailored, that harkens back to the glamour of the 1940s, but with an edge that makes it wholly contemporary.

“Women make up more and more of the

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Betty Malo wears her own line. workforce,” says Malo. “And because of that, you’re seeing women without the time to concentrate on their wardrobes— women with serious jobs, who aren’t kids or college students, but adults—and want to dress like it. These are women who need to look good, but often they just don’t have time to really shop for themselves.”

Malo’s target audience is affluent and image-conscious women, and she hopes they’ll come to her for everything, from a carefully created private label clothing line custom-tailored to fit, to all the details that go into a whole look. But she’s also willing to take on those who come to her for one thing, say a single dress for an event, and hopes that they return again.

“This isn’t ready-to-wear, the line is wholly bespoke,” explains Malo. “We’ve carefully designed the collection, and each piece is custom-made by someone we consider to be one of the absolute best tailors in America, for the client.” The clothing, samples of which Malo shows us, is elegant and graceful, and reflects the silhouettes of the ‘30s and ‘40s—it’s not had to imagine much of it on Katharine Hepburn or Jean Harlow.

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It’s easy to fall in love with the pieces we’ve seen so far: a full-skirted black coat or a bias cut dress of silk charmeuse that’s contemporary yet brilliantly retro 1930s.

There’s an understated glamour, and the cuts of the clothing promise to be favorable to a variety of figure types, whether you happen to be a 2 or a 12. And that’s exactly what Malo is hoping for. “I know what we’re offering is different from anything here in Nashville or anyplace else,” she says.

Malo’s developed her business model with help from her current business partner, Barry Wishnow. Wishnow has served as a consultant to the likes of Catherine Malandrino, Calvin Klein, Joseph Abboud and Donna Karan, among others, and is perhaps best known for working to bring Hugo Boss to the U.S. in the mid-1980s and establishing it as one of the principal men’s fashion lines in the country, during his tenure with J. Schoeneman in New York. Wishnow has helped Malo to refine and streamline her vision, defining the women she sees as her potential clients.

Further, Malo and Wishnow have turned Malo’s funky-cool studio in

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Chestnut Square into a true atelier, where women can come and receive the kind of attention we’d all like when shopping.

“What we want to do is give her the best advice possible, about what looks are best for her—and our advice is free.”

With a New York hairdresser and makeup artist flying in monthly, Malo’s clients can consult on an overall look.

Pampering clearly takes center stage. With a terrific selection of clothing to choose

from—bags, jewelry, hats and all the rest— the vibe also looks to the past: It’s hard not to imagine the dressing room scenes in the classic 1939 film The Women. There’s a whole old world sense to the methods of buying, fitting and finishing garments, something that you see rarely in women’s wear these days. Most of us, honestly, haven’t seen it at all.

“When [our client] goes someplace after that, she should be the center of

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attention,” says Wishnow. “Her hair looks great, her clothes are fabulous, she’s got a whole, complete look.”

Wishnow also takes time to stress the quality and beauty of the fabrics they’ve selected, and the color palette.

You can easily tell he’s got a serious background in menswear, as he points out the advantages of the gorgeous suiting swatches laid out on the table before him.

“It really does have a certain quality that’s sort of fine menswear made feminine by how its put together and what it’s paired with,” he says. “And look at the detail in construction; it’s fantastic.”

“These are clothes that can do so much, go from work, to cocktails. Things to make you feel both beautiful and sexy,” says Malo. The sexiness, however, is tempered by elegance—this is not teen club-queen stuff. More Halle Berry, less Paris Hilton.

Of note, as Wishnow says, this isn’t a “perishable” wardrobe. The classic looks will hold their own amongst the current trends, but will also still be wearable a few years from now. “Most people buy ready to wear, of course, and if they’re lucky, they come up with a few classic pieces.

What makes what we’re doing so extraordinary is we’re offering custom work for the same price as high-end ready-to-wear,” says Wishnow. “What more can you ask for?”

With interest building, Malo foresees a men’s line to come. Truly, at a point where shopping mentalities have changed, when people are no longer buying just to buy, but purchasing quality instead, Malo seems to have found a solid niche.

“My goal at the end of the day, though, it’s really just to make women feel good, to build confidence in a person,” says Malo. “I want them to leave feeling like they can’t wait to get out and show themselves to the world, they feel so good.”

Betty Malo Style & Beauty, 427 Chestnut St., (615) 469-1744

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You Say You Want a RESOLUTION?

T

his month, our staff solutions are our resolutions.

Our dynamic and creative sales staff members took the time to share their plans for the coming year with readers, in hopes they may inspire you to take better care of yourself too—mind, body and spirit.

LAUREN LACKEY To improve my health and energy level in 2010, I will take a multi-vitamin everyday. Multi VitesAdult Gummy Vitamins ($9.99) can be found at Whole Body from Whole Foods Market.

LIZ DANIEL This year I plan to eat less processed food and more natural food from the earth. I’ll aid my healthy eating with David Kirsch’s Flush and Cleanse Dietary Supplement ($45), available at Maxwell Aesthetics.

JANNA LANDRY I hope to expand my workout plan to include flexibility. I love Shiva Rea’s Yoga Shakti DVD ($29.99). Get it at LuLuLemon in Hill Center.

REGIS GEORGE My resolution is to go to bed earlier in order to get eight hours of sleep each night and improve my health. I’ll get help from my Kingsley Slumber Mask ($5) and Body Rehab Scrub & Muscle Soak ($35). Find them at The Cosmetic Market.

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CATHY PARSONS After saying this for years, I’m going to make it my mission to drink at least eight glasses of water every single day. I love Smartwater (about $1.79) at grocery stores.

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Out with the OLD... ... And in with the new (products, that is). The end of the year combined with a busy pre- and post-holiday season calls for getting organized and replacing items in your stash, as well as stocking up on the latest fantastic finds. These are some of my favorites to purchase this month.

—Stacie Standifer

Strike a Pose Be camera-ready and always glowing with Benefit’s set of their three most famous powders ($28). The blush, bronzer and glowing face powder fake a weekend in the sun, and the container is perfect for throwing into a small clutch or bag. Check out the powders at the Benefit counter at Macy’s and Ulta.

Dark and Mysterious Nothing makes a fashion statement more than OPI’s signature Matte Collection in shades of navy, gray and deep purple ($8.50 each). They’re the perfect accessory for high fashion ensembles, and the texture of the polish really lasts on nails. Pick up a few and experiment. The Cosmetic Market.

Spa Seekers Give your body a boost with regular doses of super rich and indulgent body creams, scrubs and oils from LaLicious (from $16). The intoxicating scents (I love the vanilla) and carefully combined ingredients will make these a shower staple for the winter season.

Exclusively at Gold Skin Care.

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Turn Back the Clock The Darphin line of indulgent products ($60-$200) aims to provide an aromatic experience coupled with ingredients that deliver dramatic results. Since each collection is different, you can choose those that work best for your skin type. While each and every product in this incredibly effective collection truly is a savior, my favorites are the oils, night crèmes and firming serums. Combining them reduces lines, keeps skin hydrated and feels like a treat with each use. Find yours at WOO Skincare and Cosmetics.

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Quick Fill Fix For stubborn wrinkles that you don’t want to show, there is a revolutionary product from Estée Lauder. The new Perfectionist [CP+] Targeted Deep Wrinkle Filler ($39.50) has a precise applicator, goes on effortlessly and has skin plumped up from within instantly—making lines appear less noticeable. It’s the perfect miracle product for looking your best (and your youngest) on important occasions. Find out more at the Estée Lauder counter at Belk stores.

Smooth and Straighten Get that polished look without weighing hair down with body-building and nourishing products from the Redken line (from $18). Whether you need volume (Aerate 08) or frizz control (Align 12), the custom line of products has something to give you better hair this season.

At Studio Gaven.

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style

METALHEAD Designer Matt Booth’s rock ’n roll aesthetic sings loud and clear with Room 101

M

att Booth, the Los Angeles designer responsible for Room 101, brings a variety of life influences to his work— and those details make the pieces he creates so rich and vibrant. Booth spent 1996-2000 in the Marine Infantry, and both his military service and the aesthetics of the cultures he visited define his work. Adding to the mix is his time since, as a bass player on the Hollywood music scene, which in turn introduced him to the continually evolving underground jewelry and fashion styles that thrive in Los Angeles, especially in the music world.

“All this silver jewelry I was seeing on that scene became my drug of choice,” says Booth in an interview at Flavour on Demonbreun, his sole Nashville vendor. “I drove designers crazy, asking them to piece together different components for me, until it got to the point where they just told me to go do it for myself. So I did.”

He went to those he considered experts and got his training there, rather than pursuing a formal education in art and jewelry design.

“I’m really one of the first of the second generation of designers on that L.A. subculture scene,” he says. “Certainly one of the only ones in my age bracket.”

Looking at Booth’s work, whether the cleanest incarnations, like the dog-tags and buckles made custom for Flavour, or one of the elaborate character rings, from which the dragon-like face of a traditional Kabuki mask leers, it’s clear there’s always complexity. “I like powerful images,” explains Booth, as he points out more—skull rings that represent branches of the military for example (part of the proceeds from these rings go to benefit the Wounded Warrior

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Project). His imagery, he says, is a blend of the Far East and the West Coast—“but really, it’s just the stuff I like.” (As a brat, I felt the need to prod him about getting an Air Force skull ring design to go with the others ...)

Booth says at the beginning, he eschewed a skull design, because everyone did it, but he got so many requests he finally gave in. “But I made every effort to make it look different than the typical skulls you see out there,” he says, adding that he started with an image by another L.A. designer, and built from there.

“My brand wasn’t really intended for mass consumption,” Booth says. “So I’m not really worried about pleasing the average consumer.” He’s likewise added more fun stuff to the line, including a Honduran-made private Room 101 cigar label. Conveniently, you can also get a custom Room 101 cigar cutter or lighter from him— just in case.

Ultimately, quality is what Booth is all about—perhaps a side effect of his personal commitment to the jewelry before it ever became his business. “All of our materials are the best. We’re using stones that are vs to vvs quality, and it’s all by custom order, so you know attention is being paid,” says Booth. “Black diamonds are the most popular stone choice, but we can do what a client wants.” He’s done pieces in a variety of stone and metal combinations, but says at this point he’s most recognized for the work he does with black diamonds set in black rhodium—which hides the pavé effect created by dark stones in a lighter metal.

Booth points out the delicate workmanship touches—stones set

Photos by Edgar Hoill.

BY STEPHANIE STEWART

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upside down, for a distinctive effect; elegant, hand-lapped links; and insides that look as clean and polished as the visible exteriors— that help define his notion of quality.

“Honestly, I deal generally only with people who really understand the brand.

We have lots of private collectors, so maintaining the exclusivity and the integrity is priority for us,” he says. “And ultimately, final cost isn’t the biggest consideration, although I can cater to any price point.” The dog tags and buckles at Flavour—rare custom pieces done specifically for the store— are great examples of his moderately priced pieces, while the custom work can run to the thousands of dollars.

With interest growing across the music community, Room 101 continues to generate buzz. Chances are good though, you won’t be seeing it all over, all of a sudden, at the malls and at every boutique. Matt Booth knows what he’s doing, and playing to a devoted subculture is part of what it’s all about.

For more information, visit room101silver.com, or check out the pieces at Flavour (1522 Demonbreun, (615) 254-2064).

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How to Eat, Exercise and

LIVE Over the holidays and every day

BY LIZ DANIEL

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down, then all the metabolic functions of the body are compromised in some way. Since blood sugars regulate all the metabolic functions in the body, they must be regulated throughout the day. If they aren’t regulated, you’re putting your body into a negative effect, and you may never tap into your stored body fat to be burned as energy.

Essentially, you’re programming your body to store fat and utilize dietary calories and/or breakdown stored biological proteins (protein degradation) as an energy source.

However, if someone tries to eat less and exercise more, they are telling their body to conserve energy (stored body fat) and they are breaking down the “metabolic machinery” of their body needed to increase their metabolic rate. Guarino compares it to losing your job: “What would you do if you lost your job and you had only one paycheck left? Would you spend it all at once or would you save or conserve that money? Think about it—that’s exactly what the body does.”

So, how do you regulate your blood sugars? Simple, you must eat the proper amount and ratio of whole, natural foods every three to four hours throughout the day. This should be consistent from within one hour of waking up until one to two hours before going to bed, and will tend to re-program your body to use that stored body fat as its main energy source twenty-four hours a day. Guarino shows

Photo by Sherry Clagg.

W

hen Stacie Standifer, our dedicated publisher at Nashville Lifestyles, met with personal trainer Steven Guarino, she knew she’d found the perfect person to train me for my annual December-January fitness article. Originally from Rhode Island, Guarino has an extensive background from the East Coast to the West Coast in personal training. Before his move to Music City, he was based in Los Angeles where he trained at high-profile gyms such as Whole Body Gallery, Fitness Factory and Jackie Warner’s Sky Sport Spa, where he worked with The Biggest Loser’s Jillian Michaels. He even appeared as the nutritionist on a couple of episodes of Bravo TV’s Work Out. One of the principal differences I found with Guarino, compared to other trainers, is his focus on proper strength training applications and nutrition. His fitness program isn’t just about lifting weights. He educates clients on diet and what to eat in conjunction with their exercise program, believing nutrition should always come first.

“Otherwise, you will be that person that works out for hours while never achieving results,” he says. “Remember, food gives the body the energy it needs to allow changes in your body to happen, but exercise takes that energy and actually makes the changes.” This concept wasn’t foreign to me, but the honesty of an instructor placing such value on overall wellness was. Read on to find out how to make smart holiday eating decisions now and throughout the year, as well as how to train properly to make the most of your workout.

When I first met with Steven Guarino, he gave me a more comprehensive understanding of the effects that whole, natural food and regular exercise have on the human body and their subsequent influence on the metabolism. I learned the concept “eat less to weigh less” is totally off base. Shocking!

I discovered our body works in systems. If one system breaks

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clients how to maintain a healthy blood sugar level with customized meal plans.

These programs are complete with calorie guidelines, protein, carb, fat breakdown and optimal times to eat for energy.

With my nutrition outline in check, we began strength training with a special focus on form and movement. These tweaks in training help clients achieve twice the results in half the time. The first focus is Proper Exercise Biomechanics, which concentrates on proper positioning of the joint angles, helping maximize the total workload applied to a specific muscle or group of muscles.

Full Range Contractions is another area of importance. This concentration involves consciously contracting the muscle being worked at the beginning of the exercise and holding the contraction as hard as you can.

This was difficult one for me since I tend to

use momentum to lift weights. The bonus of perfecting this method is to increase muscle without injury.

Anatomical Focal Points is the final application. The term refers to landmarks on the body used as a pulling or pushing point throughout any given exercise to help the workload being applied to the muscle group. This technique fatigues the muscle much faster and takes stress off the surrounding joints.

Steven Guarino isn’t just a personal trainer, but a multi-faceted wellness expert. Don’t wait to start a nutrition and exercise program until after the holidays. The longer you wait, the longer it takes to see the changes with your body. If you’re looking to strength train and make lifelong changes in your body, book a consultation with him and start the New Year right—before it begins.

Steven Guarino’s holiday tips to get through the holidays without gaining weight

Photos by Sherry Clagg.

If you eat your normal diet/nutrition plan and regulate blood sugars throughout the day, then you’ll reduce sugar cravings, and you’ll tend not to overeat at dinner. If you starve yourself all day long, just the opposite will happen. You will pick at high-sugar/ high-fat foods throughout the day and you’ll overeat at dinner. Then, you’ll sit on the couch and conserve energy! Keep your blood sugars in check.

Contact Information Steven Guarino is a certified personal trainer and nutrition technician at Takes 2 Fitness. He can be reached at svguarino@gmail.com or at (615) 424-7024.

Visit nashvillelifestyles.com for one of Steven’s Strength Training Routines

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NEW In Town Pure Barre just opened a new location in Brentwood 330 Franklin Road, Suite 137A Pure Barre is a total body workout that tones your arms, flattens your abs, thins your thighs and lifts your seat.

It’s a 55-minute workout that utilizes a ballet barre and incorporates isometric movements to provide an intense workout that is driven and motivated by music. lululemon athletica has arrived at the Hill Center Hill Center, 4027 Hillsboro Pike, Suite 803 For those of you not familiar with lululemon athletica, you will be soon. This line of yoga-inspired athletic clothing is made by athletes for athletes, both men and women.

Made to accommodate a range of athletic pursuits, such as running and dancing, function remains the top priority.

Pure Barre

NOT Your Ordinary Workout

BY LAUREN LACKEY

W

hile in Las Vegas for a bachelorette party, I was introduced to a new exercise concept for ladies—pole dancing. The class was not only entertaining for our group, but it was also physically challenging. It incorporated the pole and exotic dance moves into traditional exercises, which had us giggling but also feeling the burn.

On my return to work, I shared my experience with the office. The ladies were excited to try the class here in Nashville.

I began researching pole dancing classes and soon found Aerial off Eighth Avenue. Michelle Coffee, the owner, invited a group of five to take a private, intense class, which included practicing moves on the pole and ended with several upscale pole dance routines that had us laughing wildly. The class flew by—we were having so much fun performing this combination of cardio, pilates and yoga.

Native Nashvillian Coffee decided to open her own studio here after living in L.A., where she discovered the class and its popularity across the U.S., Australia and the U.K. “I fell in love with the class because it worked every muscle group but didn’t feel like a workout, plus I saw quick results in my body” she says. Studio Aerial offer classes including pole fitness, chair fitness and workshops, as well as private classes. They also host bachelorette and birthday parties.

If you’re looking for something beyond your ordinary workout or an evening out with the girls, I believe it’s a perfect place. The class schedule and details can be found on their website at studioaerial.com.

Aerial—A Pole Dancing Studio 521 Eighth Ave. S., Suite 308B Nashville

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The

greatest

Gift of All

What does it mean to ‘live consciously’?

BY TIFFANY WATSON BREEDING, PH.D.

E

very December, as the holiday season comes to an end and the New Year rolls around, I can’t help but feel nostalgic for the memories of childhood: the laughter around the table and the traditions of picking a tree, buying a new ornament and going to the candlelight service on Christmas Eve. I wonder if these feelings are slowly fading from the lives of the younger generation.

Are holidays spent in big family gatherings? Do you still take time to make New Year’s resolutions and reflect on all you were blessed with throughout the year?

I fear all of us are distracted by emails, text messages, employment concerns and the increasing price of daily living. As this happens, we forget to pay attention to ourselves and what it takes to maintain our health and well being. Unfortunately, when we let ourselves suffer in this way, we’re also able to offer less to those around us. If we neglect ourselves, the result is often bitterness, fatigue, mood swings, disconnection and eventual regret.

How do such outcomes bode well for relationships, parenting, job productivity and personal health (e.g., weight management, stress levels, sleeping habits and nutritional choices)?

I’m dedicating this month’s article to challenging the Nashville community to set the bar for conscious and proactive behavioral change. What does it mean to live consciously? What does a day look like without trying to watch the news, make a phone call, get a to-do list together and head out the door in time to stop at the drive-thru at the coffee shop on the corner?

Tell us here at Nashville Lifestyles what you, the readers, are willing to commit.

Write to us about how you plan to live a more fully conscious lifestyle. Can you dedicate an hour to cell phone-free family time? Can you go on a vacation and not purchase the in-room Wi-Fi? Can you become so self-aware that you actively choose a nutrient-rich snack rather than one that provides a momentary high and midday crash? These are just a few suggestions, but even such small changes can lead to a greater overall well being and balance. In our February issue, we’ll highlight the most effective and moving initiatives submitted by our readers. You can be the catalyst.

No change is too small.

Visit NashvilleLifestyles.com for more on staying fit from Dr. Breeding.

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> push play

Nashville’s music scene is as vital and powerful as it’s ever been B Y

P A U L

V .

G R I F F I T H

“Nashville” has become a synonym for country music. In addition to providing a home for the country music recording industry, many of Nashville’s most distinctive features are directly related to the musical genre that is the city’s best-known export. But alongside Music Row, the Grand Ole Opry and the CMA Music Festival, there’s a world of music that may or may not be related to country. Nashville’s music community continues to demonstrate its diversity, as the city’s many nightclubs and recording studios buzz with sounds as varied and proficient as those found anywhere in the world.

Though cataloging such an assortment is a near-impossible task, what follows is a rundown of Nashville acts that were particularly visible in 2009.

COUNTRY Though it was released last year, Taylor Swift’s Fearless continues to win accolades in 2009. The 19-year-old scored big at the 44th Annual Academy of Country Music Awards, taking home three trophies including the Album Of The Year Award for Fearless, which has now sold triple-platinum-plus.

She also won additional ACM honors for artist and producer.

TAYLOR SWIFT not only swept the CMAs with no less than four huge Swift then nabbed a Teen Choice Award for Best Album and wins, but was also awarded BMI’s biggest honor for her songwriting for appeared on the 2009 Video Music Awards, where she won the second year in a row. Photo by Joseph Anthony Baker. for Best Female Video. On Nov. 11, she added an impressive four CMA awards to her list of accomplishments, including Female Vocalist of the Year.

Hot on Swift’s high heels is Carrie Underwood. In February, Underwood won the Grammy for Best Female Country Vocal Performance for the third year running. That’s four Grammys in three years for the Oklahoma native, who gained fame as the first country music focused American Idol. Underwood has also been the Academy of Country Music’s Female Vocalist of the Year for the past three years. Her sales figures are undeniable: The recently released single “Cowboy Casanova,” for example, garnered first-week sales of well over 100,000 copies, a feat unmatched by any other solo country artist this year. Along with Brad Paisley, Underwood hosted this year’s Country Music Awards broadcast on Nov. 11.

Perennial country favorite Kenny Chesney continued to ride the 2009 country charts with “I’m Alive,” a duet with pop singer Dave Matthews. The laid-back accept-life-as-it-is ballad was first released on Chesney’s 2008 CD, Lucky Old Sun. Despite its success, the record took some heat for being introspective and less of a party than his previous work, but Chesney has never been one to blindly follow trends––even the ones he starts.

2009 saw the breakup of Brooks & Dunn, one of country’s most enduring acts. Though the duo will continue to tour through 2010, the announcement heralded the demise of a partnership that has launched 20-some No.1 country singles since 1991. Between 1992 and 2006, Brooks & Dunn won the Country Music Association Vocal Duo of the Year trophy every year but one.

The heirs to Brooks & Dunn’s duo crown, Big & Rich, also announced a hiatus in 2009. Far from breaking up, Big Kenny Alphin and John Rich are taking time to work on solo projects. Though the pair’s personas have always seemed at odds—Rich, the serious

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Music Issue DARIUS RUCKER, photo by Russ Harrington

song-crafter; Alphin, the lighthearted free spirit–– that dichotomy is part of their charm. Their respective solo records highlight these differing worldviews.

Rich’s Son of a Preacher Man is weighted by rants aimed at bailouts and pacifists. On the other hand, Alphin’s The Quiet Times of a Rock and Roll Farm Boy touts a more utopian vision of peace and love.

In September of this year, country superstar Miranda Lambert released her third album.

Titled Revolution, the CD debuted at No.1 on Billboard’s Country Album chart and garnered four stars in Rolling Stone. Thematically, Revolution covers the waterfront, balancing trigger-happy anthems like “Maintain the Pain” and “Time to Get

DAVE MATTHEWS & KENNY CHESNEY CHRIS YOUNG, photo by Marina Chavez

a Gun” with a cover of John Prine’s insightful “That’s the Way the World Goes ‘Round” and “Airstream Song,” a string band song that namedrops country-rock legend Emmylou Harris.

Two country newcomers also made inroads in 2009. North Carolina native Eric Church’s redneck romance single “Love Your Love the Most” reached the Billboard Country Top 10, as did “Boots On,” Randy Houser’s keep-it-country single from 2008’s Anything Goes.

Though hardly a newcomer, Hootie & the Blowfish singer Darius Rucker made a significant impact on country radio in 2009. His “Don’t Think I Don’t Think About It,” which was co-written with NASHVILLELIFESTYLES.COM 63

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Music Issue current hot-hand Clay Mills, shot to the top of Billboard’s Country singles chart, and he says he has every intention of continuing in the country vein. That got some recognition at the 43th Annual CMA Awards in November, when Rucker picked up the coveted New Artist of the Year Award.

You can’t properly cover the year in music without a mention of Rascal Flatts. The band’s latest CD, Unstoppable, is one of only three country albums that have sold platinum in 2009. The cheery, nostalgic single “Why” is getting massive airplay and recently jumped into the Billboard Country chart’s Top 20. The band has also become the famous faces—and voices—promoting the Discover Tennessee Trails and Byways tourism initiative, launched by Gov. Bredesen on Nov. 3.

Other acts who hit big in 2009 include the jam band-influenced Zac Brown Band, whose ode to beach life, “Toes,” was a No. 1 country smash. Keep an eye, too, on honky-tonker Chris Young and country-pop singer Jimmy Wayne. The former is a 2006 Nashville Star winner whose CD The Man I Want to Be spawned two radio-friendly singles this year. The latter’s “Do You Believe Me Now” features emotive lyrics and memorable hooks that combine the driving grooves of Keith Urban with Kenny Chesney-style introspection.

Recent records by Jason Aldean and Jamey Johnson represent a grittier side of country that’s holding its own against the genre’s more genteel performers. Aldean hails from Macon, Ga., which is home to the Allman Brothers Band. Perhaps that explains the Southern rock and blues influences on Wide Open, Aldean’s third major label album, which peaked at No. 2 on the country album charts. Johnson’s latest, That Lonesome Song, trades on an outlaw image, but its biggest hit, “In Color,” is mournful and mainstream—and it too got a major nod of approval at the recent CMA Awards, picking up Song of the Year.

RASCAL FLATTS

AMERICANA

JIMMY WAYNE, Photo by Justin Key

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Could there be a more surprising pair than bluegrass darling Alison Krauss and former Led Zeppelin frontman Robert Plant? Even more startling is the success of Raising Sand, the duo’s 2007 recording that’s still making waves in Nashville’s country and Americana communities. Plant and Krauss swept this year’s Grammy Awards show, winning for Record of the Year, Album of the Year, Best Pop Collaboration With Vocals, Best Country Collaboration With Vocals and Best Contemporary Folk/Americana Album.

Plant and Krauss may have brought roots music to the national attention, but acoustic-based styles have always thrived in Music City, where bluegrass, folk and old-time players garner respect if not radio airplay. The Americana radio format could change that, however. Increasingly, Americana is home to quality artists that don’t quite fit existing categories like country, pop or alternative.

Buddy Miller is another of Americana’s reigning stars, and this year he was busier than ever. In addition to working with Plant and Krauss, he performed with Shawn Colvin, Emmylou Harris and Patty Griffin as part of their “Three Girls and Their Buddy” tour. Miller also produced a record for his wife Julie and helmed projects by Patty Griffin, Levon Helm, Emmylou Harris and jazz legends Bill Frisell and Marc Ribot. Miller was the big winner at the Eighth Annual Americana Music Association Honors & Awards Show held last September in Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium, taking home trophies in practically every category for which he was nominated.

Likewise, Justin Townes Earle got a lot of attention from Americana radio in 2009. The son of legendary singer-songwriter Steve Earle, Justin’s

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Music Issue sophomore CD, Midnight at the Movies, combines old-time instrumentation with an alternative attitude. Songs like “They Killed John Henry” demonstrate Earle’s commitment to the folk tradition, while “Here We Go Again” is crisp songwriting the Texas-Nashville way.

He wears his dysfunctional upbringing on his sleeve, but Earle’s sharp-dressed retro persona and toned-down songwriting couldn’t be more different than his dad’s often-politically charged rants. The younger Earle took New and Emerging Artist honors at this year’s Americana Awards show.

Americana star Elizabeth Cook is probably best known for her Grand Ole Opry appearances––with over 300 shows, she’s likely appeared on the show more that any other non-Opry member. Thirty years ago, Cook’s straight-to-the-heart songwriting and homespun delivery would have fit perfectly on mainstream country radio, but with country leaning more toward pop, old-school country stylists like Cook have found a place in Americana. Cook hosts the morning radio show “Elizabeth Cook’s Apron Strings” on Sirius XM radio’s Outlaw Country channel. Her latest CD, Balls, produced by legendary singer-songwriter Rodney Crowell, spent a lot of time on the Americana chart in 2009. Last October, Cook began a new record with Don Was, who’s produced Bob Dylan and The Rolling Stones, along with many other rock luminaries.

Americana artist Chuck Mead is best known as co-founder of the three-time Grammy nominated BR549, a retro country outfit that practically owned Nashville’s Lower Broad district during the mid ‘90s. Mead’s recent solo effort, Journeyman’s Wager, expands his dustbowl persona with forays into pop, R&B and gospel. Known as “The Hillbilly Renaissance Man,” Mead also dabbles in production and musical theatre––in 2007, he served as musical director for Million Dollar Quartet, a stage musical based on the night Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins and Elvis Presley had an impromptu jam session.

If there’s any proof of Americana’s inclusivity, it’s Those Darlins. Equal parts indie rock, retro country and punk, the Murfreesboro trio released a much-anticipated debut CD in 2009. Since the record’s release, the Darlins have been burning up the highway, opening for everybody from O’Death to John Fogerty. Along with a New York Times pick, Paste, Billboard and Pitchfork magazines tagged the Darlins as a band to watch in 2009.

ROCK AND POP The prevalence of home recording has had a democratizing effect on Nashville’s music scene. For better or worse, the old business model has been shattered forever. Artists no longer need to depend on “gate-keepers” at record labels and booking agencies for their success, and industry tags like “pop” and “country” no longer have the constraining power they once did.

Acts like Those Darlins and Nashville singer-songwriter Brooke Waggoner, for example, are succeeding despite a lack of major label support and slick radio marketing.

In 2009 Waggoner self-released Go Easy Little Doves, a lush, orchestrated collection of songs that epitomizes the breadth of Nashville’s rock scene. The CD displays Waggoner’s considerable composition skills but is never bombastic or heavy-handed.

Its gentle melodies and hushed vocals recall the influential chamber pop of Van Dyke Parks and Elliott Smith. As of press time, Waggoner has sold out shows pending in Dallas, Austin and Houston.

Fellow indie chanteuse Cortney Tidwell released Boys in 2009. Like Waggoner, Tidwell demonstrates how independent Nashville musicians are achieving global success without mainstream industry support. Her imaginative compositions and haunting voice garnered raves from discerning UK magazines such as Mojo and Q. From the mournful, sparse “Solid State” to the dense, trance-like “Watusi,” Tidwell combines indie rock darkness with the influence of past melodic masters such as Jackie DeShannon and Dusty Springfield.

Last year, Middle Tennessee’s The Features were all but pronounced dead by the local press. After being signed to Universal Records, the band fell flat when their first major label release tanked. With their reclaimed independence, The Features self-released Some Kind of Salvation, a 16-song CD that recalls Elvis Costello and The Kinks but has a cheeky assertiveness all its own. The Features’ old friends Kings of Leon took notice, re-

KINGS OF LEON, photo by Dean Chalkley

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Music Issue releasing the aptly named Some Kind of Salvation on their own label and including The Features on several of their overseas shows.

David Mead is a Nashville artist who’s often categorized as indie rock but is far more versatile than that label implies. His Almost and Always, released in August 2009, is a quiet collection of well-crafted, intimate pop that recalls ‘60s mainstream artists like Paul Anka and Harry Belafonte, albeit with a post-punk wink.

During the late ‘90s, Mead was signed to RCA records. At the time, his ephemeral songs were at odds with the popular music of the day, and he was dropped from the label. Now, with the rise of airysounding artists like Regina Spektor and Fiona Apple, Mead’s use of classical guitar, woodwinds and string quartet makes Almost and Always ripe for wider acceptance.

As the music business changes, artists develop new marketing strategies in order to keep up. Perhaps the biggest shift is the realization that, with the prevalence of illegal downloading and file sharing, artists have to give their music away. What they lose in album sales they make up for in fan loyalty and touring revenue–– at least that’s the plan.

Nashville bands Jensen Sportag and How I Became the Bomb both made free material available on their websites this year.

Released in dribs and drabs, Jensen Sportag’s Jackie is pop-tinged techno-rock full of irresistible beats and hooky melodies. Likewise, How I Became the Bomb’s Deadly Art channels mid-80s romantics like Roxy Music and Human League. Play them all at your next dinner party, and have your guests play guess-the-decade.

In August 2008, Nashville rocker Will Hoge was riding home from the studio on his scooter when he was struck by van. The accident left him with broken bones and temporary blindness, and put the brakes on his recording career. But 12 months later after the accident, Hoge returned to work and completed The Wreckage, his appropriately titled collection of Americana-tinged rock. Though it’s hard to resist comparing The Wreckage to work by Petty and Springsteen, Hoge’s brush with mortality provides the record with a unique stamp.

When it comes to Nashville rock, what was once indie is now mainstream. Take Jack White. Several years ago The White Stripes frontman and guitarist relocated from Detroit to Nashville and translated his Grammy-winning success into a solo career and two spin-off bands: The Raconteurs and The Dead Weather. The latter, a project that includes The Kills’ frontwoman Alison Mosshart and Raconteurs bassist Jack Lawrence, released their debut in 2009. Titled Horehound, the CD doesn’t stray far from The White Stripes’ garage rock roots, its defining factors being Mosshart’s alternately snarling and crooning vocals and White’s surprisingly enthusiastic turn on drums.

Likewise, onetime indie darlings Kings of Leon continue to be one of the best-selling rock acts of the decade. On the strength of 2008’s Only by the Night, a huge-sounding record that capitalizes on the band’s newfound arena rock status, the Kings were nominated for three Grammys in 2009, taking home the trophy for Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group With Vocals. Their single “Sex on Fire” was No. 1 on Billboard’s Modern Rock chart for nine weeks in a row, and its followup, “Use Somebody,” is now a million-seller. In a media blitz, the Kings were featured on the covers of Rolling Stone and Spin magazines and performed on Saturday Night Live, The Today Show, The Late Show with David Letterman and The Tonight Show.

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JOHNNY JONES, Photo by George Walker IV

JAZZ AND R&B In addition to being an instructor at Belmont University, saxophonist Rahsaan Barber is Nashville’s busiest jazz musician.

Barber hosts the Nashville Jazz Workshop’s Contemporary Jazz Series and performs with groundbreaking drummer Nioshi Jackson and the all-star Latin jazz group El Movimiento. With his twin brother, trombonist Roland Barber, Rahsaan is nurturing a new generation of musicians while raising the profile of Music City jazz in 2009.

This year saw the loss of R&B legend Johnny Jones. Perhaps best known as Jimi Hendrix’s mentor, Jones was a highly respected guitarist who performed on countless R&B sessions for singers such as Roscoe Shelton and Charles “Wigg” Walker. Before his death, Jones’s playing was featured on Night Train to Nashville: Music City Rhythm & Blues, 1945-1970, a Grammy-winning CD that spawned a corresponding exhibit at the Country Music Hall of Fame.

Jones’s contemporary, Charles Walker, is still hard at work.

With his band The Dynamites, “Wigg” Walker’s 2009 record Burn it Down received a Best Funk Album award from The Nashville Scene. Borrowing from peers like James Brown and Wilson Pickett, Walker routinely reminds crowds of hipsters that Nashville’s recording history encompasses more than just country music.

•••••• While Nashville’s reputation as a recording capital grows, its music community expands along with it. In 2009, Nashville is still the Home of Country Music, but it’s also an artistic mecca that draws creative persons of all stripes, musical and otherwise. Along with the changes in recording technology and shifts in music business protocols, this broad artistic palette will help ensure that Nashville remains Music City for years to come.

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LAdy Antebellum

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managed to write and record another smash while touring with some of the biggest acts in country music including Kenny Chesney, Martina McBride and Keith Urban, among others. They’re also darlings for the industry, representing Nashville well on several national television shows such as Ellen and The Tonight Show with Conan O’Brien, and we loved their turn as hosts earlier this year for the Symphony Spring Fashion Show, introducing Monique Lhuillier.

Their plan is to keep the momentum going, to participate in the awards shows and to continue touring (to play for the fans that are such a key to their success). After knowing these three for the last couple of years, I can certainly see why music enthusiasts will be “running to” pick up their new album in January.

—Stacie Standifer

ins ilk k-Wer lac r ua B Bak y ke Ba osh hon Iris nt J nt cer sta h A du ssi sep Pro oto A y Jo Ph oto b Ph

Since sitting down to write their first song together in 2006, this trio has experienced unexpected success and fame as one of country music’s most famous acts. Charles Kelly, Hillary Scott and Dave Haywood come together to produce a sound that blends soul and singer-songwriter reflection, then add a contemporary edge that results in recordings unlike any others being played on country music stations. Mega hits like “Love Don’t Live Here” and “I Run to You” showcase the range of talent and diversity the three bring to the genre and their fan base. The band got some much deserved recognition at the 43rd Annual CMA Awards, with the trio taking home both Vocal Group of the Year and Single of the Year for “I Run To You.” Of course, they’d already earned quite a few awards and nominations (including both ACM and CMA New Artist of the Year honors in 2008) for their work on the initial album, so it’s really no surprise that fans are eagerly anticipating their sophomore release, slated to go on sale Jan. 26. The title is the same as the already tremendously popular single “Need You Now.” The song has been their most successful yet, rising to the Top 10 on the Billboard charts in just nine weeks. Like previous hits, the melody and message resonate with fans. The other tracks promise to be just as heartfelt, with the band working to make sure they continue to deliver the sound that their followers appreciate and love. In fact, they describe the new album as being all about passion, where a spark was reignited in the studio. From what we’ve heard, the listeners are going to be equally passionate about the music.

What’s most surprising is that this energetic group of young talents

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Music Issue

Ten Out OF Tenn

Ph oto by Ma tt Ba to

Nashville’s filled to the brim with independent artists who wake up every morning hoping today will be the day they get “the call” from a manager, some major label A&R guy or maybe Clive Davis himself, offering a massive record deal and “next in line” status as an American Idol judge.

Four years ago, a handful of friends in the city’s burgeoning young acoustic-pop singer/songwriter community grew tired of waiting, so they jumped on a bus (Willie Nelson’s old tour bus, to be exact) and took their music to the masses.

The brainchild of local artist Trent Dabbs and his wife Kristin, the “Ten Out Of Tenn” concept was simply a means to introduce the world to Music City’s finest troubadours in one fell swoop. Each show typically consists of every artist performing two songs while

the rest of the group shares the stage, serving as the house band.

In its third incarnation, the most recent Tenn touring lineup this past fall was comprised of Erin McCarley, Andy Davis, Katie Herzig, K.S. Rhoads, Tyler James, Matthew Perryman Jones, Butterfly Boucher, Jeremy Lister, Andrew Belle and Dabbs. Other notable contributors of tours past include Ashley Monroe, Griffin House and Joy Williams. Touring aside, Ten Out Of Tenn has produced a pair of compilation albums with contributions from each artist, as well as a Christmas album and an award-winning documentary titled Any Day Now, which debuted at this year’s Nashville Film Festival.

As individuals, the artists making up Ten Out Of Tenn have released 30 albums, had song placements in film and network TV series including Grey’s Anatomy, Scrubs and One Tree Hill and have shared stages with the likes of R.E.M., Sarah McLachlan and John Mayer. McCarley’s single “Pony (It’s OK)” currently holds the iTunes record as the most-downloaded free song in the store’s history.

Ten Out Of Tenn’s touring community model is nothing new for those familiar with Southern California’s Hotel Café Tour or, going even farther back, the Sun Records caravan days of Elvis, Johnny Cash and Roy Orbison circa the 1950s. But as record companies continue making cuts to their artist rosters and as touring budgets keep tightening, it’s safe to assume this talented collective is likely pioneering a whole new crop of youthful and inspired artists, all banded together, leaving their egos at home and hitting the road.

—Matt Ingle

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Ph oto by Kim

Troy Olsen

Ben Folds

Everyone remembers that guy in college who was accountable to no one, but still managed his way into every sorority party and Saturday afternoon pre-game cookout on campus. He was usually louder than everyone else, begging for high-fives and arguably pushing 40. In hindsight, these men deserve our pity and grace for such self-unawareness.

Ben Folds, though he has spent the past two-plus decades of his life kicking it with the collegians, is certainly not that guy. And it’s definitely a two-way relationship: He writes snarky pop anthems that have served as the personal soundtracks of thousands of illegal-downloading dorm dwellers over the past 15 years and, in return, they faithfully sell out his campus tours and lend their vocal chops to his ambitious musical projects.

Even at 43, as a family man with twins and a Twitter page—consisting of conversational posts detailing the aperture settings of his uploaded photos and a bio that simply affirms: “I play piano”—Folds is hardly simplifying his creative outlets.

Bookending a collaborative artist-on-artist spoken word project he wrote and produced with William Shatner several years back, Folds will co-release an album with British author Nick Hornby (About A Boy, High Fidelity) titled Levi Johnston’s Blues, set to release in Spring 2010. Last year, Folds hit universities coast-to-coast in pursuit of a cappella groups that would record instrument-free renditions of his best-known tunes. Fifteen vocal groups created the album titled University A Cappella!, representing institutions like Princeton, Sacramento State and his former stomping grounds, the University of North Carolina.

Few pop artists have enjoyed such longevity and iconic status in the notoriously fickle college scene as Folds. While there surely won’t be a lack of Ben Folds-inspired f-bomb-dropping, irreverent pianopop artists coming out of the woodwork over the next several years, there’s no question Folds will have this market cornered until the moment, if and when, he decides to graduate.

To ne lli

—Matt Ingle 70 NASHVILLELIFESTYLES.COM

When Arizona native Troy Olsen picked up his first guitar at age 11, country music naturally poured from his fingertips onto those six strings, and it’s been running through his veins ever since. Inspired by his deep western roots, and the sounds of one of his idols, Dwight Yoakam, this self-taught talent epitomizes what honkytonk music ought to be. He is, in every way, authentic. Within 30 seconds of track one, “Living In Your World,” Olsen’s hillbilly flare radiates as Scott Joss dominates on the blistering fiddle and Olsen hooks you in with his comforting country drawl and boot-stomping beats. The familiar bellyachin’ twang of a heartbroken cowboy in the slower track “Who Gave You The Right” feeds your Southern soul with that pure country music you grew up with. Olsen’s deep, genuine voice penetrates as he bravely shares his soulful stories through calm melodies, gritty rock and everything in between, each track more honest than the last.

Thankfully for aficionados of genuine country music, Olsen and publishing company THIS Music held a highly anticipated showcase at 12th and Porter on Nov. 4, where he performed several of his favorite tracks off his newest album, Living In Your World. Within hours, the industry buzzed with talk of Olsen, and in less than a week, he joined Capitol Records Nashville’s roster of superstars. This likely means that the label will have new announcements on Troy and his music very soon. This fresh talent with timeless country-western style is on the rise here in Music City, the honkytonk capital of the world … right where he belongs.

—Lisa Karvellas and Ali Seiderman

Photo by Sheri O'Neal

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Music Issue

Big Kenny Alphin

“There’s always enough, if we share the love,” sings Kenny Alphin on “Share the Love,” a track from his new record, The Quiet Times of a Rock and Roll Farm Boy. That’s Alphin’s philosophy in a nutshell. As one half of monster duo Big & Rich, “Big Kenny” is larger than life. In his trademark top hat, he prowls that stage exhorting fans to “lead the freak parade” and “live this life.” Recently, Big & Rich decided to take a break, and that freed both Kenny and bandmate John Rich to work on solo projects. If anything, the Big Kenny that emerges on The Quiet Times, Alphin’s second solo record, is more outgoing and positive than the Big & Rich version.

“I haven’t even called it a break,” says Alphin, who’s currently on a solo tour to promote The Quiet Times. “We just want to put our individual projects out. The yin and yang of two people [in a band] is no different than the yin and yang of any two people. There’s always a balance that you try to reach, and music is the great stage of commonality.”

Alphin is an accomplished songwriter. In addition to Big & Rich favorites like “Save a Horse (Ride a Cowboy)” and “Wild West Show,” he’s written hits for Tim McGraw, Gretchen Wilson and Jason Aldean. In 2005, Alphin was named BMI Songwriter of the Year.

Quiet Times’s songs cover a lot of stylistic ground.

From the feelgood anthem “Happy People” to the Brit-pop of “Less Than Whole,” the record documents what’s important to Alphin at this point in his life: home, family and spreading the love. Alphin’s selflessness isn’t just a pose. Through his Love Everybody foundation, his good works extend from ending mountaintop coal mining in Appalachia to building a girls’ school in Sudan.

“This record is the most encompassing way that I could put my life in music right now,” says Alphin. “There’s a story behind every song––musically, that’s my life. I’ve put my whole soul onto that disc.”

—Paul V. Griffith Ph oto by Kr ist in

Ba rlo we

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Music Issue

Patty Loveless

Patty Loveless rose to fame as part of the “New Traditionalist” movement that swept country music during the mid-80s. Along with artists like George Strait and Clint Black, Loveless offered an alternative to mainstream country, which, it was felt, had lost touch with its rural roots.

To date, Loveless has placed over 40 songs on Billboard’s Hot Country chart, including five No. 1 singles. Four of her 15 studio albums have been certified platinum; two have been certified gold.

She’s the Grand Ole Opry’s 65th member.

Most recently, Loveless garnered attention in Americana circles with the release of Mountain Soul II, which like its predecessor, Mountain Soul I, is a collection of traditional country, bluegrass and new original songs. The record’s lead off single “Busted” is a cover of Harlan Howard’s hard-luck classic that was a hit for Ray Charles in 1963.

Along with her husband, legendary producer Emory Gordy, Jr., Loveless put together an all-star collective for Mountain Soul II. Sharing the mic with Loveless are Vince Gill, Emmylou Harris and Rebecca Lynn Howard. They’re joined by a virtual who’s-who of session musicians, such as steel guitar great Al Perkins, fiddler Stuart Duncan and bluegrass legend Del McCoury on guitar and vocals.

Despite its all-star cast, Mountain Soul II is

designed to showcase Loveless’s voice, which is one of the most distinctive and warmly recognizable in country music. Without the vocal tuning and studio trickery that mars popular music these days, the record is as natural sounding as a front porch or a living room. Loveless no longer appears to be shooting for the country charts. Instead, she’s recording for her own enjoyment, and for the enjoyment of her many fans. It seems like Loveless is handling her country legend status the same way she handled country superstardom: with poise and class.

—Paul V. Griffith

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Music Issue

Donna Summer

Giancarlo guerrero

While Nashville may be home to many legends of country music, Music City’s the residence of one of the most iconic figures in popular music as well: Donna Summer. Her most recent album, Crayons, released in 2008 on Sony BMG’s Burgundy label, debuted at a stunning No. 17 on the charts. With all the songs co-written by Summer, emphasizing her bona fides as a songwriter as well as a singer, the album has been nothing less than tremendously successful, producing the singles “I’m A Fire” and “Stamp Your Feet.” Both reached the No. 1 spot on the U.S. dance charts. In January of this year, “Fame (The Game)” reached No. 1 on Billboard’s Hot Dance Club Play chart—her 30th Top 10 Billboard single. The album continues to generate interest. That’s no small feat for a woman who’s been wowing us with her musical abilities for more more than 30 years.

With a sultry yet powerhouse voice, Donna Summer not only reigned as the absolute queen of the disco era back in the ‘70s, but continues to impact the charts today in a variety of genres. Far from limiting herself to the sounds of the dance floor, Summer has a repertoire worthy of her exceptional talent, including R&B, gospel and rock, as well as disco pop. She’s sold more than a 100 million albums worldwide through her exceptional career and she was the first artist in any genre to have three consecutive double albums hit No. 1 on the Billboard charts.

The Boston native started singing in gospel music in church as a child, something that continued into her teens.

She sang with a rock and roll band in high school before setting her sights on musical theatre. Touring with Broadway shows in Europe, she made a career there before bursting onto the American scene with “Love to Love You Baby” in 1975, and r e - maining firmly on our collective radar ever since, through a collection of incredible musical endeavors. Nashville’s just waiting to see what she does next. t —Stephanie Stewart nd

2009 marked Giancarlo Guerrero’s debut as music director of the Nashville Symphony.

As one of the world’s most respected conductors, Guerrero’s calendar reads like the flight schedule at O’Hare. In addition to his work in Nashville, during the 2009/2010 season he’ll be guest conducting with symphony orchestras in Milwaukee, New Jersey, Fort Worth, Costa Mesa and Philadelphia. Outside of the United States, he’ll lead orchestras in Vancouver, Edmonton and Slovenia.

“It’s all in the schedule––make sure you stick to the schedule,” says Guerrero. “I have quite a few people helping me manage my calendar, and the lines of communication are very open. One of the benefits in the classical music industry is that most of our booking gets done way in advance, so it enables you to get your life in order. There are weeks that are not to be touched. We need to have family time.”

Born in Nicaragua and raised in Costa Rica, Guerrero trained as a percussionist at Baylor and earned his master’s degree in conducting from Northwestern. Before coming to Nashville, he was music director for the Eugene Symphony. Prior to that, Guerrero served with the Minnesota Orchestra and the Táchira Symphony Orchestra in Venezuela. “[Percussionist/conductors] are more common than you’d think,” says Guerrero.

“It has to do with the rhythmic aspect of it. The best training I got as a conductor was actually playing in the orchestra.”

Bra In September, Naxos Records released Maestro Guerrero’s first el ha c i recording as conductor of the Nashville Symphony. The CD features two works M by to by renown composer Michael Daugherty: Metropolis Symphony, which pays o Ph tribute to comic book hero Superman, and Deus ex Machina, a work commissioned, in part, by the Nashville Symphony.

“He’s a composer that I’ve known since I was in college,” Guerrero says. “Later in my career, I had a chance to meet him in person. Any time I get a chance to perform his music, I take it. In my years to come in Nashville, we’ll be showcasing more of Michael Daugherty because he’s a composer that audiences can connect to very easily, and his work continues the Nashville Symphony’s mission to promote new music, especially new music by living composers. The project really showcases the virtuosity of this orchestra.”

—Paul V. Griffith

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Music Issue

Will Kimbrough

Photo by CJ Hicks

Jason Aldean

Fifteen years have already passed since Tim McGraw’s “Indian Outlaw” reached Top 15 on the pop charts and seven since Keith Urban brought his Top 25 smash “Somebody Like You” to mainstream radio. Country music was due for its next solo male crossover act this year, and there’s little doubt Jason Aldean is the next guy in line to fill the position, if he hasn’t already.

Though the 32-year-old, Macon, Ga., native and father of two certainly made a valiant effort to pull off the tough-guy-with-a-big-hat-and-sleeves-rolled-up thing, his cover was blown earlier this year, upon the release of his Future Farmers of America sweetheart ballad “Big Green Tractor,” the follow-up to last year’s barnyard head-banger “She’s Country.” The two singles—both off of his third and most recent album Wide Open—topped the country charts, landed in the Billboard Hot 100’s Top 30 and subsequently catapulted Aldean from a B-list rising star in the country realm to a mainstream commodity.

As the record industry continues its earthly descent in a ball of flames via declining album and concert ticket sales, Aldean managed to score his most decorated year to date in 2009. After his 2005 self-titled album and 2006’s Relentless earned platinum and gold sales respectively, Wide Open went gold just two months after a career-high debut at No. 2 on Billboard’s Top Country Albums chart in April.

Most impressive is how the success of “She’s Country” and “Big Green Tractor” bumped his unabashedly rowdy live shows from bar rooms to 6,000 capacity concert halls in the span of 365 days. The proverbial cherry on top for Aldean’s stellar 2009 came in the form of a live concert DVD Wide Open Live & More that went gold a week before its release date in August, added to a high-octane performance on ABC’s Country Music Festival: Country’s Night to Rock and a coveted American Music Awards nomination for Favorite Country Male Artist alongside Urban and Darius Rucker.

While country music has enjoyed a steady flow of crossover females like Taylor Swift for nearly two decades and experienced that success more recently with groups Rascal Flatts and Lady Antebellum, the lack of a cowboy hat and big ol’ belt buckle presence in the pop world has been evident for years. No doubt, the timing couldn’t have been more perfect for Aldean to rise to the occasion and be that guy.

—Matt Ingle

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Will Kimbrough is probably best known for his guitar playing––an American Music Association Instrumentalist of the Year, his soulful rock licks have appeared on records by Jimmy Buffett, Rodney Crowell, Kim Richey and many others. Kimbrough, however, is a quadruple threat.

In 2008-09, he produced records for Angela Easterling, Bonnie Bishop, Dave McCann, Dave Zobl and Annika Fehling.

An accomplished songwriter, Kimbrough compositions have appeared on recent records by Little Feat, Jack Ingram and Todd Snider. Buffett, who’s a frequent collaborator, plans to include four Kimbrough songs on his upcoming CD. A family man, Kimbrough also has to find time for his wife Jessica and his two daughters, Emma, 14, and Sadie, 8.

It helps that Jessica aids in managing her husband’s busy schedule.

“Jessica is a financial person, so she’s a good influence,” Kimbrough says. “She’s often the voice of reason who says, ‘Do you really want to drive 1,500 miles to do that gig?’ She makes me think things through, and she supports what I do.

We’re in a partnership.”

Like any youngsters, Sadie and Emma’s interest in their father’s music waxes and wanes. “They get really excited about coming to gigs and hanging out backstage, but sometimes I’ll be working on a mix, and one of them will say ‘Do you mind if I play my iPod now?’”

Kimbrough also tours constantly in support of both his solo career and DADDY, a band he co-fronts with longtime friend Tommy Womack. It makes you wonder if Will Kimbrough ever wishes he were only good at one thing.

“Yeah, but it didn’t work out that way,” he says, laughing. “In a way, it is one thing to me. It’s all music, and I try to work with people whose music I like. That way it almost always comes out well.”

—Paul V. Griffith

Ph oto by CJ Hic ks

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Music Issue

Those Darlins Murfreesboro band Those Darlins borrow from classic country and vintage punk. It’s not an original formula, but no one does it quite like the Darlins, whose un-ironic mix of rural imagery and rock aggression is truly unique. Gritty, glamorous and charming, Those Darlins have something for everyone.

“People are looking for something genuine, even if it’s rough around the edges,” says Kelley Darlin, the group’s bass player.

“That’s why bluegrass is blowing up. Sometimes people need an excuse to have fun. When you get into the stress of having a family and working, we remind you that you don’t have to be just one thing––you can have fun and try new things.”

The band, which also includes Jessi Darlin on guitar and Nikki Darlin on baritone ukulele, first got together in 2006, united by a love of music, art, fun and adventure.

One of the band’s most requested songs is “Wild One,” (“If you can’t handle crazy, go ahead and leave”), but that doesn’t mean these women are completely out of control. “This is the first band I’ve been in that my mom can understand the lyrics,” says Kelley.

For their self-titled debut record, the D a r l i n s traveled to New York to work with producer Jeff Curtin, whose credits include the preppy Afro-pop band Vampire Weekend.

They’ve been traveling ever since.

“We used to live at home and tour sometimes. Now we tour all the time and only come home on breaks,” says Kelley. “Figuring out that transition is a lot to get used to, but we’re constantly getting better at it.

It’s a lot of work, but it’s the best job you can have. It’s a luxury to be working, especially when so many people aren’t.”

—Paul V. Griffith

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Music Issue

Eric Church ic’s f Er ibs o eek MT Cr k p C nea show s this! s a V is T r m t o i f a-h ant to m g e o c m les. n’t w the esty red on ou wo f i L Y eatu ville on. ash e, as f rd seas N i m t Visi stic ho ing th a m fant e upco h t n i

>>>

Country newcomer Eric Church had a banner year in 2009, reaching both the Mediabase and Billboard Country Top 10 on the strength of “Love Your Love the Most,” the latest single from his acclaimed sophomore record, Carolina.

Church burst on the scene in 2006 with Sinners Like Me, his debut record, which earned three Top 20 singles and a No. 1 video. A native of Granite Falls, N.C., he penned songs for others (including Terri Clark’s “The World Needs a Drink”) before being signed to a solo deal himself. Sinners Like Me was produced by Jay Joyce, who’s best known for work with eclectic artists like Patty Griffin and The Duhks. It makes you wonder what Church, the Carolina country boy, and Joyce, the former punk rocker, have in common.

“Not much,” says Church. “And I think that’s one of the brilliant parts of what we do together. What we share is a common desire to not let the music get in the way of the song. He’s not one to overproduce and dress up the song too much. He just wants to bring out the best in what I do.”

What Church does best is mix Southern drawl and arena rock in a combination that recalls Brad Paisley or Keith Urban, but with a little U2 in the woodpile. He’s known for his up-tempo live shows, which showcase his outstanding backing band. This same group of well-heeled veterans also play on Church’s records––a setup almost unheard of on Music Row, where the division of labor between live and studio musicians is practically insurmountable.

“I feel that I have the best band out there,” Church says. “My guys are great players, and it’s important, if you’re going to be a band, to have a sound.

These are the guys who helped craft that sound. We have a very easy relationship with our label, Capitol, and as long as we keep making great records and don’t screw up, we’ll get to keep doing this.”

—Paul V. Griffith

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CMT

Cribs

CMT Cribs returns with an all-new season packed with the latest in luxury living, top-of-the-line toys and the wildest whips on the road. We’re lounging in more homes of today’s hottest celebrities as this season takes us to new levels of country living. Celebrities featured this season include the following: Jared Allen, defensive end for the Minnesota Vikings; NASCAR driver David Ragan; Darryl Worley; Melissa Peterman, host of CMT’s The Singing Bee; actor Alan Thicke; actor John Schneider; Tanya Tucker; A.J. Hawk, linebacker for the Green Bay Packers; Jo Dee Messina; Eric Church; Justin McBride, PBR World Champion; and Cortland Finnegan, cornerback for the Tennessee Titans.

CMT

The Singing Bee

The buzz is back as CMT’s hit series The Singing Bee returns for a second season beginning Jan. 15 at 8 p.m. Hosted

by Melissa Peterman, new weekly onehour episodes of the show promise more laughs and excitement than ever before with new music selections and fierce competitors. Full episodes of the first season of The Singing Bee are available online at cmt.com/shows/ series/singing_bee/episodes.jhtml Blending a mix of country music with popular favorites from other genres, the show tests contestants’ knowledge of lyrics to well-known songs—and those who fail to accurately sing the correct lyrics are eliminated from the competition. Establishing itself as perfect family entertainment, The Singing Bee recently ended its original run on CMT and ranks as the network’s highest-rated series of the year.

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Music Issue LOVE & THEFT, photo by Jeremy Cowart

Nashville Lifestyles’ Sixth Annual Music in the City Tuesday, Jan. 19 • Tin Roof Starting at 5:30 p.m.

Hosted by CMT Presented by Roberts & Lyons Chevrolet JOSH KELLEY

the ones to watch

If you’re ready for a night of great music, mingling and all the attendant fun that comes with one of our terrific events, then start the new year off right by getting your tickets for Music in the City. The evening features acoustic performances by Nashville’s top up-and-coming artists—with a portion of the proceeds to benefit the W.O. Smith Music School The night’s headliners are Love and Theft and Josh Kelley, with performances by Jessie James, Josh Thompson and Steel Magnolia.

Tickets are $20 in advance and includes two complimentary cocktails. Log on to NashvilleLifestyles.com

Josh Kelley Georgia native Josh Kelley signed his first record deal when he was still a 21-year-old student at Ole Miss.

He released two albums with Hollywood Records, with radio hits including his top-five single “Amazing.”

Kelley left Hollywood in 2006, releasing four albums off his own independent label DNK Records. He recently joined Universal Music Group Nashville, with a new release expected in 2010. Kelley’s appeared on Good Morning America, Regis & Kelly, The Ellen Degeneres Show and The Tonight Show with Jay Leno. His brother, Charles Kelley, is the frontman of hit-making country group Lady Antebellum. Kelley and his wife Katherine Heigl, of ABC’s Grey’s Anatomy, recently adopted their first child.

Love & Theft Brian, Eric and Stephen of Love & Theft have swept audiences away with their soaring harmonies and on-stage charisma. Fans have stood in line for up to three hours after shows for a chance to meet the band and grab a coveted autograph. The same fans have bought the band’s debut album World Wide Open like crazy, and pushed the single “Runaway” straight up the charts. They’ve toured with the likes of Taylor Swift, Jason Aldean and the iconic Tim McGraw, made appearances on the Today Show and Late Night with Jimmy Fallon and, of course, made their Grand Ole Opry debut. Now, we can’t wait for their performance for us at Music in the City.

STEEL MAGNOLIA, photo by Justin Key

JESSIE JAMES, photo by Jarrett Gaza

Also Appearing: Jessie James, Josh Thompson & Steel Magnolia

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JOSH THOMPSON

To find out more on these artists, go to nashvillelifestyles.com

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BY JORDAN RUTLEDGE • PHOTOS BY RON MANVILLE

dreaming with

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s we transition into winter, there’s a sense of holiday magic in the air. The need to give thanks seems in order, Christmas tunes begin to play and eggnog is suddenly on grocery lists.

Preparing for the holidays lightens everyone’s mood—it’s a merry time of year. For some, this could be picking the perfect tree, purchasing presents for loved ones—and don’t forget those office parties at work.

But, in the life of a ballerina, the holidays are a time to prepare for The Nutcracker.

Tchaikovsky’s timeless classic is a benchmark each year for any ballet company. For the Nashville Ballet, it’s something to be remembered.

As envisioned by Artistic Director Paul Vasterling, the show adds a bit of historic Nashville to this favorite Christmas classic.

“The Nashville Nutcracker is different from the regular Nutcracker performances, but also the same,” explains Vasterling. “The traditional elements that exist in any Nutcracker are there: there’s a little girl, she goes to a Christmas party, she has a dream ... etc. But what we do differently is overlay Nashville’s history on top of that scenario dramatically.”

In the Nashville version, Clara’s character goes to the Tennessee Centennial Exhibition (World’s Fair) circa 1897. At the Fair, she comes in contact with people from all over the world and from these foreign encounters, spurs her dream that, in turn, takes us on the

magical journey that is The Nutcracker.

“Visually, the way we delineate the real world from the dream world was inspired by the pictures from the original exhibition that were in sepia tones,” explains Vasterling. “Therefore, the ballet starts out in sepia and when Clara enters into the dream world, color begins to come to life.”

What exactly goes into the making of this production? There are

Nashville Ballet Artistic Director Paul Vasterling

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at home

Grace Rich and Molly Sansone Stage Manager Grace Anzelmo with set design renderings from The Nutcracker

150 children (75 for each performance), the entire company (45 ballet dancers), two dance masters (Sharon Wood and Tim Yeager) and a very intricate vision from Paul Vasterling. Therefore, coordinating, teaching the company its steps and getting everyone where they need to be are vital in making this performance come to life.

Upon visiting Nashville Ballet, two dancers really stuck out to me while watching practice—Molly Sansone, from Charlotte, N.C., and Grace Rich, a native Nashvillian. To give me further perspective into the creation of a ballet, we discussed their daily routines and

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common misconceptions about the life of a company ballerina.

Preparation began in October with staging practices amongst their practices for the fall show, Giselle. However, the technical stuff has been in progress since August. Each day, they arrive at nine for practice. This usually lasts until 11 a.m., when they receive a 15-minute break. They continue to rehearse until 2 p.m. (lunch time). Afterwards, they keep working until around 6. Needless to say, this is a full-time job—you can’t have this schedule and be a dilettante.

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“I’ve done The Nutcracker since I started dancing,” explains Sansone.

“I’ve been in Nashville for six years and I love the version that we perform. Paul has a really good way of connecting the community and his vision so it relates to Nashville.”

Both dancers agree that The Nutcracker is somewhat like riding a bike because it’s an annual thing. Although some of the steps vary and casting changes, it’s a comfort zone for most ballet dancers.

“It isn’t that they have to re-learn the steps, but each year, they do have to rehearse it and get it up to speed,” explains Vasterling. “It’s a very technical show and very challenging.”

Grace Rich has been dancing with Nashville Ballet almost her entire life.

Her progress in The Nutcracker is the

perfect example of how much time and dedication it takes to move up through the cast for “plum” roles. Rich began at the age of nine, and at age 11, she was cast as Clara. She’s essentially grown up each year with The Nutcracker. She has now reached the role of “Arabian” dancer, after being an understudy for two years.

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“You know what you’re expecting,” explains Rich. “You’ve seen it before and even if you haven’t done the role, you know the steps from watching it so many times over.”

Rehearsals continue up until the week prior to the performances. At that time, they begin “intense” dress rehearsals and layering in the music on top of the dancing. The Nashville Symphony will be playing at every performance.

“It’s a layering process,” explains Vasterling.

“We start with the basics by teaching the company. The solos are learned, and then we teach the children. Each week, we add on one more element of the show, until it finally creates the final production. Bringing in the music is definitely the last part of the process.”

The Nutcracker runs Dec. 11 through Dec. 20. For more information on purchasing tickets, visit nashvilleballet.com.

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seeing The beautiful Red House offers historic elegance with a modern music vibe

RED

BY LAURA S. HOLDER • PHOTOS BY RON MANVILLE

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T

he moment I walked into the Red House in downtown Franklin, I felt like I was home. (Wishful thinking, of course, because this one is much cooler than mine.)

This gorgeous jewel of a house blends hip musical culture and historic elegance with the welcoming comfort of home. Part event site, part music venue and all heart, the Red House’s vibrant atmosphere is limited only by your imagination.

Named for Jimi Hendrix’s song “The Red House,” this fabulous gabled home is as distinctive and cool as the song that inspired its name. It’s a venue for just about anything: outdoor weddings with stately indoor receptions, CD release parties, even corporate events looking for an affordable, exceptional off-site space to spark those creative juices.

So what sets the Red House apart from other event venues? Versatility. Amazing music artifacts. And a seemingly effortless ability to blend the best of old and new Franklin.

Built in 1877, its historic charm is part of the city’s traditional sense of place. But the events and musicians coming to the Red House are also making modern-day history.

Franklin is capitalizing on its musical identity, merging historic ties to American roots music with today’s rock and country scenes. Complementing Nashville’s international reputation as “Music City,” Franklin is known as a trendy musical town in its own right.

And the Red House is becoming an integral part of the local music experience, playing host to performances and CD release parties for artists, including Brady Seals.

Owners Laura and Ed Hill, longtime members of the Franklin community, knew they wanted to save a piece of history. They purchased the home three years ago, initially intending to create an arts school. Both have musical backgrounds—Ed, originally from the West Coast, is a renowned songwriter/musician who has penned number one hits for stars like Reba McIntire. Laura’s East Coast musical talents earned her a coveted place as backup singer for Joe Cocker and other luminaries. After meeting on tour with Mickey Gilley and spending time in California, they decided Middle Tennessee was the ideal place for both family and musical careers.

The Hills eventually decided to create an entertainment venue, and the idea of the Red House was born. Laura says, “It was a risk. I didn’t know if it would work at first. But once the decision was made, the walls came down.” The restoration took about six months, thanks to great work by John Wenger Construction along with Christopher Martin, who designed the gorgeous landscaping. And now it’s hard to imagine the community without it.

The Red House’s deceptively cozy exterior covers a spacious 3,000-square-foot interior.

Laura opened up the traditional hall-and-parlor floorplan by removing several walls, leaving a flowing open space that can be transformed to accommodate lavish receptions, musical performances or intimate parties and meetings. A stone and brick fireplace warms the

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center of the home, and original hardwood floors and paned windows add a touch of classic Southern chic. Bits of exposed brick wall lend a funky retro flair, while animal print chairs and sleek black wood tables and chairs provide a stylish and fashionable kick of color.

But the home’s music memorabilia truly sets it apart. A walk through the Red House is a like touring a miniature Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. With photos, prints, artifacts and gold records from some of the industry’s biggest stars, there’s a musical connection for everyone. Bob Marley shares wall space with Elvis Costello, The Clash hangs with Elvis Presley, and memories of the Beatles, Woodstock and Hendrix (to name a few) light up the rooms. Much of this dazzling collection is on loan from close friend Brent Ware, supplemented by the Hills’ own pieces.

Event Director Suzanne Jeffers is no stranger to the music scene herself, being married to Chad Jeffers, a highly-respected musician/songwriter who plays with Carrie Underwood and many others. She’s worked closely with Laura to help create the atmosphere, blending the hip vibe with sophisticated comfort. Designing custom (and stress-free) events planned to the smallest detail is her goal. “It’s your home for the day,” Jeffers says.

“And as cool as the décor is, all of it can be removed to accommodate the event. The Red House can become whatever you want it to be.”

The Hills love being a part of Franklin’s close-knit community. Almost all the furnishings are bought locally from stores including Redo and Rebecca’s Furniture and Design.

And downtown landmark Shuff’s Music and

Piano Showroom often provides the equipment for musical events. According to Laura, it’s just another way for the local businesses to support each other and strengthen Franklin’s appeal as a distinctive venue.

Laura Hill and Suzanne Jeffers create stellar events, but their work within the community brings their greatest sense of accomplishment. Laura works closely with BrightStone and Mercy Children’s Clinic, and they have volunteered with Turning the Tables, the Hard Bargain/Mt. Hope Redevelopment project and Battle Ground Academy. Allowing non-profit organizations to use the house at discounted rates is another way to offer support. “It’s so important to give back to the community that’s given so much to us. We love it that the Red House provides another way to help.”

It’s not unusual to walk by the Red House on a fine day and find a mini-jam session on the front porch. Ed Hill and others, including 2004 BMI Songwriter of the Year Casey Beathard, often write here on days when events aren’t scheduled. The lively bustle of downtown Franklin, coupled with the landscape’s natural beauty, have inspired many a songwriter to pen hit songs here.

The Hills’ commitment to preservation, neighborhood partnerships and sharing their fantastic venue provide an on-going gift to Franklin. Laura believes that “this is a happy place, and we love giving people happy memories.” Whether it’s a wedding, a musical performance, a photo shoot or a corporate strategy session, the Red House offers an exceptional place to create memories that last a lifetime.

WHAT DO RODNEY CROWELL, BRADY SEALS, CHAD JEFFERS AND DAN HUFF ALL HAVE IN COMMON? Besides being incredible musicians, they’ve all signed the wall at the Red House. That’s right—their signatures adorn the wall in a permanent homage to the home’s on-going musical legacy (it was also once a recording studio). What started as good fun has become one of the home’s most distinctive features. Unexpected details like this are just one more thing that sets the Red House apart from its contemporaries, and part of what makes each event here so memorable.

The Red House is located at 138 Third Ave. N. in Franklin, just off the historic downtown square. For more information, call (615) 435-3503 or visit ourredhouse.com.

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Ever-Green

SHOPPING Want eco-friendly shopping this holiday season and beyond? Check out Newterraliving.com

By Stephanie Stewart

A

s you’re bustling about shopping for the holidays—and also making a commitment to be more ecoconscious in the New Year—you might take the time to consider the options at New Terra Living. The online site newterraliving.com is the brainchild of Nashville residents Michael and Valerie Hart. The innovative

TOP: Beckons Organic Yoga Clothing BOTTOM: 100% wool felt chrysanthemum brooches

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and eco-minded couple launched the web site in hopes of wooing shoppers who want to buy green products and also demand high quality from their purchases.

“We did a lot of research when we were putting together this site,” says Michael Hart. “We looked at the blogs

and publications that really seemed to have a handle on the world of eco-conscious products, from furniture to clothing, cleaning products to art, and chose the things that seemed to be having serious and positive impact.”

The couple has big-time entrepreneurial credentials. Hart first got a doctorate in clinical psychology, then got drawn into the business world and opted to get an MBA from Wharton. Valerie Hart is a former venture capitalist, with a history in banking and marketing—and incidentally a successful playwright. Between them, they’ve worked with movers and shakers of industry across the disciplines.

“When the recession started to hit a couple of years ago, it really changed our perspectives, and we decided to bootstrap this company,” says Hart proudly. Already possessed, unsurprisingly, of admirable e-commerce chops, they branched out and looked at ways they could bring the best merchandise to a growing base of upper

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Eating

Eco-Friendly Brian Breagel and Caleb Kimbley start a restaurant recycling revolution

By Stephanie Stewart

R

Legaré bookcase

echelon, eco-conscious shoppers.

The resultant company, newterraliving.com, provides a place you can shop online for the best green products and still support a Nashvillebased business. On these pages, you can see a few of the products we like from the company.

You’ll find many, many more offerings on newterraliving.com. With new, high-quality product added every week, you’ll want to sign up for their newsletter, and keep up with the latest additions. You can sign up at the top of the newterraliving.com homepage, and also get special offers and savings.

estaurants produce lots of waste—all those plastic containers, aluminum cans, glass bottles, paper menus and so on inevitably found in the dumpster at the end of the day. In many cities, it’s already de rigeur for restaurants to use effective recycling programs, but here in the South, we’re a little behind that curve. With notable exceptions like Tayst and Mad Platter, most Nashville eateries still toss everything. But that’s about to change.

Brian Breagel and Caleb Kimbley, a pair of Belmont grad students who’ve put Breagel and Kimbley in serious time working in some of the city’s best cles,” adds Kimbley. restaurants, are preparing to launch “The idea has been incredibly well their own restaurant recycling service. received by the restaurant community,” “We have something like 600 pounds adds Breagel. of glass a week alone at Miro District, For restaurants, it means lesser costs where I work,” says Breagel, who says for hauling trash plus an added bonus seeing waste pile up was the inspiration of drawing in customers that value ecofor the new business. responsibility. The business’s name is The pair started recycling at Miro still a work in progress, but Kimbley and and Watermark as an act of good Breagel are rearing to go. Costs per citizenship, but it quickly fired their restaurant will be based on the number entrepreneurial spirit. “I’ve got a of visits necessary per week and the master’s in economics,” says Breagal, a amount of recycling.

Chicago native. “But this is what I’m “It’s an everybody wins situation. It’s passionate about. There doesn’t have to just common sense,” says Breagel. be this much trash in the landfills. It For more information, contact Brian only takes a little effort and education.” Breagal (breags@gmail.com) and Caleb “We’d like it someday to be a Kimbley (calebak23@gmail.com). certification thing, have a sign that you can hang that says your business recy-

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Mr. Smith

Goes to Washington Acclaimed interior designer—for the White House, no less—Michael Smith visits the Antiques and Garden Show

By Stephanie Stewart

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Often, the pieces or papers you see in the book come from his own Jasper Collection— pieces he designed anticipating using them separately, but he’s developed confidence about the potential of using them together, knowing they blend seamlessly, but never give the “showroom” matchy effect one hopes to avoid.

Luckily for those wanting to know what he’s really all about, Houses showcases his own beautiful Southern California home, which he shares with his three beloved dogs (two Labradoodles and a terrier, for those keeping track). It’s a beautiful single-story 1950s brick home, redesigned from a ranchstyle home created by well-known architect James Dolena, boasting a long hall that accesses nearly the entire house stemming from a welcoming entrance hall—a gracious, inviting space complete with fireplace. If

you want to know more—well, buy the book.

The California native is renowned for his Anglophile nature, but when asked about Southern design sensibilities, he’s quick to tie the South to that realm. “English Country,” in Smith’s view, owes a great deal to the design ideals of Nancy Astor and Nancy Lancaster, both Virginia natives who brought their own visions to England—which we reimported to America several generations later thinking them purely English, rather than recognizing in them touches all our own.

“It’s really more correctly Anglo-American style,” he says.

Asked what inspires him, Smith tells me that architecture itself, historic houses, even color combinations he sees used by a great fashion designer, have more impact on him than the work of any particular designers.

Smith comments in Houses that he’s inclined towards what he calls crushes on places and time periods, which in turn inform his own design. With his current work on the White House, he’s deeply engrossed in American history and architecture, especially that of the mid-19th century. “I’m looking at

Houses photo by Sherry Clagg.

M

ichael S. Smith’s decor is beautiful, but it’s not the icy beauty you often see beamed at you from the pages of expensive home magazines, rooms that are endlessly elegant, but also cold and uncomfortable. Smith’s living spaces are just that—warm, comfortable rooms you can truly live your life in. Of course, they’re also gorgeous, elegant, often harkening back to traditional English country styles, with an added contemporary and American twist. He’s designed interiors for some of the country’s biggest names— Cindy Crawford and Rande Gerber, Steven Spielberg and Dustin Hoffman, among others. Now, Smith is set to make a lasting imprint on the country, redecorating the White House’s living quarters for the Obamas (following a tradition of redecoration from administration to administration that includes interior design luminaries like Sister Parish, Ted Graber and Mark Hampton).

He’s also about to make a big impact on Nashville, with a visit and lecture at the 2010 Antiques and Garden Show in January.

Smith’s designs are grounded in history— looking over his latest book, Houses, the reader will find a plethora of rooms filled with a mix of exceptional antiques, used in conjunction with some contemporary pieces and thoughtfully blended with a mix of richly patterned textiles, paints, panelings and wallpapers. And of course, abundant, thoughtfully chosen art.

The overall look also borrows freely from other cultures—Chinoiserie, for example, and Middle Eastern carpets—but that also reflects the English sensibilities, making use of the influences and artifacts of colonialism and centuries of merchant exploration.

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all sorts of things, the American Aesthetic Movement, 19th century gothic furniture—they’re not really fashionable right now, but I’m intrigued,” he says.

“And American color. I’m interested in strong but subtle colors.”

I ask if he has an affinity for warm colors. Discussing warm color with Smith is a tricky thing, as he says he’s been devoted to blues and greens, cooler hues, lately—he lives in California, and finds them necessary to play off the natural warmth of the light. “I’m only starting to rediscover reds and yellows,” he says. (After looking at his book, I tease him about loving the era before chemical dyes took over—but he readily agrees he does).

Of course, quizzing him about the White House decor doesn’t get me any detailed answer. “It’s an amazing honor to be asked,” he says. “And as a young family with children, the Obamas have s o m e o f t h e s a m e concerns most families do.” Smith does reveal he’s looking intently at amazing collections of American art, pieces in storage at the Smithsonian and other museums that he hopes to add to the walls. “It’s never been done on this scale in the White House before,” he says. “It should make it much more diverse, and at the same time, more homelike for the family.”

While we’ll have to wait to see the White House, we do know that for Michael Smith, decorating doesn’t have any hard rules. “For me, comfort is a huge factor,” he says. “I like quality, and I love the idea of longevity, things that are both beautiful and workable— things that are well-made, meant to last.” He also values flexibility—you’ve got to be able to make a room work if you have a dog, or children who leave toys on the floor.

“People don’t come to me for glamorous but uncomfortable,” Smith says. They do, however, come for beauty and quality.

The Antiques and Garden Show takes place Feb. 11-13. For more information, visit antiquesandgardenshow.com. Houses, by Michael S. Smith is published by Rizzoli, New York ($50).

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Jim McLeod

Santa’s Trees Is Coming to Town

Jim McLeod and his Santa’s Trees staff supply your family’s favorite tradition

BY KATIE HORRELL

T

hroughout the history of Christmas trees, bringing a living evergreen into the home represents the continuation of life through the cold and darkness of winter. To people across the globe, it’s become a familiar family tradition carried throughout generations.

From piling in the car to go pick out the perfect evergreen to placing hand-made and heirloom ornaments on its branches, the Christmas tree has become a fixture in the family holiday ritual.

For residents of Williamson County, Santa’s Trees is the ultimate supplier of all things evergreen. For the past 25 years, the locally owned and run company has been committed to the philosophy that a Christmas tree is not just a tree, but also an experience. They celebrate the

fact that selecting just the right tree with family and friends revives the holiday season year after year, and as one of the oldest and most trusted tree lots in Tennessee, they love seeing those familiar family faces every year.

The origin of Santa’s Trees is as humble as the owner himself: Jim McLeod. At the age of 15, McLeod took a part-time job at a local tree stand in Green Hills. In 1985, when he was 17, he ventured out on his own and started one of Williamson County’s very first Christmas tree lots on Hillsboro Road in Grassland. Over the past two decades, the modest company has grown to employ a seasonal staff of more than 30 at five prominent locations in Brentwood, Cool Springs and Franklin. With several of those employees working with Jim for over 12 years, they’re not only friendly and helpful but, may I say, jolly (ever)green experts.

To McLeod and his employees, selling trees is much more than just a job.

“There’s nothing better than selling the centerpiece to so many families’ holidays,” McLeod says. “Not only will you get personal service, the highest quality trees and an experience to remember, but also

a sense of service to the community.”

Two of their most popular locations give a portion of their proceeds to local high schools, Centennial and Brentwood.

On average, Santa’s Trees donates up to $5,000 to each school annually making sure students have a merry Christmas that lasts year round.

While the mission and the workforce of the company are exceptional, it’s the product that really shines brightest.

Santa’s Trees prides itself in selling only premium Fraser fir Christmas trees— freshly cut every week. Its traditional Christmas shape, extraordinary needle retention, strong branches for decorating and superior fragrance make it the “go-to” for holiday décor. McLeod and his staff also offer traditional Fraser fir, boxwood and multi-select wreaths as well as handwoven garlands for every doorway, window, stairwell and mantle in your home.

Santa’s Trees staff will even deliver your family’s tree straight to your doorstep.

Jim McLeod and his team at Santa’s Trees are committed to making certain your holiday showpiece is the finest evergreen available and your experience is a family tradition to remember. Santa’s Trees is a Middle Tennessee treasure— and tradition—that exudes the Christmas spirit and promises to bring joy to you and your family’s holiday.

Go to SantasTrees.com for more.

Santa’s Trees Locations: Brentwood’s Camden Commons, Cool Springs, Franklin’s Williamson Square, Grassland and Brentwood’s Hill Center

A Season to Celebrate Cheekwood tradition continues with holiday trees

’T

is the season to be jolly. Or, as in the case with Cheekwood Botanical Garden and Museum of Art, ’tis the Season of Celebration. As the venerable West Nashville cultural institution preps for its 50th year of operation in 2010, first things first. And that means holiday season trees aplenty in the stately mansion.

“While it is now called Season of Cele-

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BY WILLIAM WILLIAMS

bration (formerly, the Trees of Christmas) and the trees are in the mansion instead of Botanic Hall, it is still one of the best events to enjoy with your family this holiday season,” says Claire Brick Corby, Cheekwood’s affable marketing manager. Corby says museum officials expect approximately 20,000 visitors for the roughly five-week Season of Celebration, which began Nov. 27 and runs

through Jan. 3, 2010.

Of note, the towering Christmas trees’ decorations have been inspired by this year’s theme, Sounds of the Season. Each tree is being designed after popular Christmas carols, including the following: “Oh Christmas Tree” and “We Wish You a Merry Christmas” (both designed by ReCreations); “Blue Christmas” and “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree”

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(Amber Marvin); “Angels We Have Heard on Highâ€? (Nest Interiors); “Silver Bellsâ€? (Geny’s Wholesale Florist); “Jingle Bellsâ€? (OSHi International Floral DĂŠcor Studio) and “White Christmasâ€? (Horticulture Society of Middle Tennessee).

Each song will play at its respective tree.

Assembling, positioning and decorating eight massive trees—plus a Frosty the Snowman figure—is no easier than Santa Claus visiting the world’s children within a 24-hour time period.

Lights alone are a challenge. Of note, Hillary Steinwinder, Cheekwood manager of education and public programs, says the tree that is featured in the museum entryway boasts more than 4,000 lights, with each of the other seven trees featuring about 2,000. “The staff basically stays tangled in lights for the first few days of set-up,� Steinwinder says with a chuckle.

Now 45 years old, the tree fest has a storied history. “Several years back,� Steinwinder recalls, “a designer wanted one of the trees bent a little to fit with his theme. It looked really great and fit the look he was going for, but we haven’t been able to bend it back. Luckily each year thereafter, there has been a need for a ‘quirky’ tree, so the one with the bend can still be used.�

And much like many of us have a favorite holiday season song or television program, Cheekwood recognizes a tree that might be a standout with patrons. “There is a tree that is put up each year, usually in Cheekwood’s morning room, that has a lot of history,� Steinwinder explains. This year, that tree is going to be “White Christmas.� “The tree is full of crystal decorations because there is a Waterford ornament for each of the last 70 or so presidents of HSMT with their name embossed on it.�

As has become tradition, Season of Celebration (which recognizes Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa and Navidad) will be accompanied by various activities, including Saturday morning gingerbread workshops and a “Breakfast with Santa.�

Season of Celebration Nov. 27 to Jan. 3, 2010 Admission: $10 adults, $8 seniors (65-plus), $5 (children 6-17), free (5 and under) 1200 Forrest Park Drive, info@cheekwood.org, (615) 356-8000

surrender to uncommon style artisanal goods. boutique brands. local presence.

holiday 200 9 Season of Celebration will include Saturday morning gingerbread workshops. Nashville Zoo and Adventure Science Center members receive discounted admission to Cheekwood in December. Live music will be offered in the museum’s intimate drawing room on Saturday and Sunday afternoons from 2-4 p.m.

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STAR

power

Midtown’s Adelicia provides a shining light for other developments to follow

W

BY STACIE STANDIFER

1581 Old Hillsboro Road

EXTRAORDINARY HOMES

hile there’s been a great deal of speculation recently about the whole high-rise and condominium market, at least one building has paved the way for the others: The Adelicia. Not only have they filled the building’s units, but developed a stellar reputation as one of the most sought-after in-town addresses.

Even as other developments struggle in a still-uncertain economy, the Adelicia’s popularity seems to be strengthening, especially with high-profile shoppers. Last month Gwyneth Paltrow browsed a privately owned penthouse for possible short-term rental during area filming. It was a bit small, since she’ll have the family in tow, but the point is, the building’s on the radars of serious national movers and View of pool at Adelicia shakers. What’s the buzz about? We talked to residents to find out.

For Gary Haber, who’s maintained a business presence in Nashville for 28 years without ever owning a home here, purchasing a second home in the building has been a very positive experience. His primary residence is outside Los Angeles, and he travels often with his accounting business, which deals with A-list entertainment industry clients.

Haber compares his Adelicia experience to that found at some of his favorite hotels.

“When they sold me on the project, it was promised that it would be a luxury environment with concierge-like amenities, and that has been realized completely,” he says. He appreciates the turn-key convenience that the staff provides and the location just steps from Music Row as well as the added bonus of a restaurant (Miro District) on the ground floor.

For Dr. Shane Witherow—who moved from the suburbs—living here provides the best of both worlds. “I feel like I’m living in a W Hotel. My favorite time of day is when I come home to see floor-to-ceiling glass with nothing but the city lights.” He chose the Adelicia because he liked the finishes, security and location.

Clearly, so do many others—and some of them are used to red carpet treatment. Young vibrant beauties Julianne Hough and Taylor Swift have invested in Adelicia units. They may not be around often, but the security is ideal for high-profile residents who prefer discretion and privacy combined with chic, modern residential space.

Caleb Followill of Kings of Leon is an owner, as is American Idol founder Simon Fuller, former Vanderbilt quarterback Benji Walker and music industry royalty Tony Brown.

The building’s filled with interesting personalities and professionals and oft-traveling movers and shakers make it even more desirable—it never seems crowded and is generally quiet despite being located in the heart of a bustling, nightlife-filled district.

The Adelicia’s success has transcended the urban residential real estate market in Nashville. Since it’s filled with happy buyers, we hope the other developments in the market follow its lead by providing equally desirable living standards. It can be done, and done well. The Adelicia community is all the proof we need.

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This beautiful two-story colonial home, located in Franklin, was built in 2007. Set atop 35 acres in Williamson County, the spacious, all-brick, gated, equestrian estate has five bedrooms and seven and a half bathrooms. Inside interested buyers will find a welcoming foyer with a winding staircase leading to the second floor, a gourmet kitchen, media room, wet bar and beautiful architecture that complements the style of the elegant colonial residence. The master bathroom includes an air tub and a shower with multiple jets—perfect for relaxation. The breakfast room overlooking the pool and outdoor kitchen also offers vistas of the picturesque landscaping. On the second floor, this 8,100-square-foot home provides a balcony with views of the front of the estate. There’s also a pool and patio, a covered porch complete with a gas grill and a Morton barn equipped for housing horses and all of your equestrian needs. The asking price is $2.8 million. For more information and viewing, contact Jim Beuerlein at Pilkerton Realtors, (615) 3837914.

—Gillian Wise

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taste Pan-seared Lemon Sole

all that

JAZZ Elise Loehr and Wendy Burch more than maintain F. Scott’s ever-exceptional standards

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trong, lasting marriages are frequently conceived in friendship. Such is the case with the two women who are both the beauty and the brains at the helm of F. Scott’s Restaurant and Jazz Bar. As Wendy Burch and Elise Loehr signed the legal papers to take over the business from their immediate predecessors Allen Fiuzat and Ben Robichaux on Nov. 24, 2003, the gods of fate must have been patting themselves on the back. Burch’s professional relationship with the restaurant began in 1991, when she was hired as a bartender at the original F. Scott’s on Bandywood, about where Kroger’s produce department is now.

Not long afterwards, Loehr joined her—also hired by Village Wine’s Hoyt Hill, then-owner of the fledgling restaurant with his wife Elizabeth—and the two young co-workers struck up a friendship. Developing careers led them in different directions and locales, but when their paths crossed again years later at a wine tasting, they went on to F. Scott’s for dinner to catch up. With a decade of education and experience under their belts, they mulled the possibilities of running a business together—which was simultaneous with Fiuzat and Robichaux’s interest in leaving the restaurant business. “Hello, opportunity calling.”

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Wendy Burch, Chef Will Uhlhorn, and Elise Loehr

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Loehr and Burch were well aware that they were not simply taking over a restaurant; they were assuming responsibility for an icon in the city’s dining development. In 1987, F. Scott’s and Cakewalk (now Zola) fired the first volley in the battle for independents, offering sophisticated menus, wine lists, service and decor as ammunition against the cookie-cutter fern bar and chain gang.

Burch and Loehr are the sixth ownership group to guide F. Scott’s since founder Daisy King, and each has built upon the work of the ones who came before. Hoyt Hill lured chef Josh Weekley from the kitchen of the famed Le Bernardin in Manhattan, elevated the wine service and began offering music in the bar; the late Dr. Tom Allen moved the restaurant to its current location when he purchased it in 1994, expanding its size and lavishly decorating in Art Deco style; after they took possession in 1996, Fiuzat and Robichaux re-did the interior for warmer ambiance, instituted the popular 9-Dine program, installed Margo McCormack as executive chef and booked live jazz nightly in the bar.

Burch and Loehr’s first executive decision was an appeal to the staff to stay the course. The response was unanimous, and six years later, many of those employees remain, of particular note server Pete Neff, who just logged his 20th year, and bartender Liz Endicott, closing in on a decade. They hired a new GM, Steve Lapiska, who is still the smiling face at the front door.

Loehr, an advanced sommelier, quadrupled the size of the cellar, with an emphasis on diversity and unique selections, artisanally crafted and produced with sustainable efforts; ongoing, she selects new wines for each new menu.

As anyone who has been the recipient of her expertise knows, helping diners discover unusual wines is her passion.

F. Scott’s was one of Nashville’s first restaurants to voluntarily go smoke free; another décor change was undertaken in the bar, which has its own casual

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CLOCKWISE: Truffle parmesan frites; local wildflower honey-brioche bread pudding with marcona almond coco nib ice cream; beautiful window seating; ricotta gnocchi with lobster and scallops.

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menu. Burch expanded their presence on the Internet and introduced savvy social-networking marketing techniques with frequent emails about specials, new menu items, wine tastings and musical guests. Particularly successful has been the Speakeasy—a weekly term sent to subscribers which when spoken to the bartender delivers a deal such as the $14 crab cake for just $5.

In 2005, Loehr and Burch made what F. Scott’s regulars would no doubt call their best decision and hired Will Uhlhorn as executive chef. The Memphis native and CIA grad who developed his maniacal passion for the Red Sox while cooking in Boston, came to Burch’s attention during his first Nashville job at Belle Meade Brasserie.

His next post as chef du cuisine at Wild Boar honed his love of and skills for fine French cuisine, yet never far from his mind or his heart are the lessons learned working under New Southern cooking master John Currence at his City Grocery in Oxford, Miss.

Just as Loehr and Burch assumed the model of excellence bequeathed by previous owners, Uhlhorn stepped into the clogs of the stellar chefs who preceded him, mindful of the kitchen’s reputation for thoughtful creation, sumptuous product, impeccable execution and decorous presentation. In making his own contribution to the culinary lineage, Uhlhorn applies classic technique and contemporary concept to his unwavering dedication to fresh seasonal product, expanding his sourcing of local and regional growers and farmers as their numbers have increased.

Uhlhorn has recently abandoned quarterly top-to-bottom menu changes for adding and deleting several dishes at a time as crops come in and out of season. “The old way, we were using some things before they came in and keeping others on after they went out,” he explains. “This way, we add new dishes as different crops come into season or as product becomes available, and when they’re gone, we take it off the menu.”

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Indulge in salad and appetizer on one heady plate with crispy chicken livers on frisee softened by warmed smoky baconDijon vinaigrette, topped with a poached egg that when pierced with a fork, oozes golden yolk. Uhlhorn expects this dish to remain through cold weather, though the creamy mussel soup with garnish of fried mussel will likely switch out for another wintry selection.

The ricotta gnocchi is a rich comfort food, swathed in a chive butter sauce colored by oven-roasted plum tomatoes, flavored by bacon and sumptuously turned out with chunks of sweet lobster and succulent scallops. Another luxurious entrée is the lemon sole—two alabaster white pieces pan-seared in a light golden crust—stacked atop a mound of fingerling potato hash on a shallow pool of lemon butter sauce. Some

version of roast chicken will remain—particularly as the fresh fowl keep coming from nearby Emerald Glen Farms—and the flavorful rib-eye is an entrée to count on. Likewise, the side of truffle parmesan pommes frites, served in a white paper cone set in a silver basket, have dug deep into the F. Scott’s menu thanks to their addictive nature.

On the night we dined at F. Scott’s, Uhlhorn and Kevin Ramquist—sous chef along with Charles Robb, Jr.—were off-site, cooking a six-course meal at the home of Cindee and Dr. Michael Gold for the dozen high bidders of a l’Etè du Vin auction item.

Loehr was there pouring and discussing wine. Says Burch, “I think that’s one of our most unique strengths, the way Will and Elise work together to pair food and wine.

We also did the Patrons Dinner for l’Etè du

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Vin, and the winemakers were so impressed.� F. Scott’s Catering has expanded enormously, with a 400-guest wedding on the books before the year’s end.

At the other end of the curve is Zelda’s Market (zeldasmarket.com) with box lunches, prepared dinners for six or more, and a special holiday menu. The new year will hopefully bring to fruition a new venture in another location that has been on the drawing board for some time.

The Loehr-Burch-Uhlhorn era has not only adhered to the superior standards set by its predecessors, but surpassed them, the 22-year-old restaurant refreshed and energized by progressive changes and innovative programs. It’s a strong partnership that has kept F. Scott’s firmly on top, and one with a future that promises the best is yet to come.

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Book The Cellar For Your Holiday Parties The Cellar is our warm and inviting private room and the perfect place to celebrate the holidays with friends and family, or host a business meeting or rehearsal dinner.

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taste

Night Red Pony hosts a challenging Slow Food dinner, thrilling guests with local cuisine

BY STEPHANIE STEWART

T

he city’s traditional holiday eating festivities may have started a little early this year with the Slow Food dinner hosted by chef Jason McConnell and his talented staff at Franklin’s Red Pony in November. The restaurant’s upper floor filled quickly, not only with fine cuisine aficionados from all over the area, but also with a collection of the city’s best chefs, out to support McConnell, Slow Food and the many farms and local producers that contributed to the menu.

The dinner crowd included a who’s who of the Nashville food scene: Chefs Patrick Martin, Tyler Brown, Tandy Wilson and Hal Holden-Bache; Corsair Artisan Distillery’s Darek Bell; the staff from foodie-centric

Jason McConnell

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comments along the lines of: “Wow, I guess I really like beets after all.”

“Things like the boudin, the pâté, all of it, it’s the stuff I most enjoy making,” says McConnell. “It’s fun to do what we normally don’t do so much of. I lived in New Orleans for a year. People there eat boudin like we eat breakfast sausage. I used to order it; now I make it in-house.” He draws a distinction too, about goat cheese and goat in general, both prime ingredients in this meal. The cheese came from the celebrated Bonnie Blue Farm (Waynesboro) and the goat from Mamushi Nature Farm (Franklin).

“Good goat cheese, fresh goat cheese is something different than the strong, gamey stuff from the store. Bonnie Blue makes an awesome product—it’s way beyond the norm. I wanted to show the same thing with regard to goat—it’s more about where they come from, what they were fed and how fresh it all is,” says McConnell. Case in point, the Slow Food guests were wolfing down his goat stew, with fabulous homemade tortillas.

The alcohol menu showcased Tennessee products as well, including Nashville’s own Yazoo beer (both Pale Ale and Dos Perros), wine from Arrington Vineyards and distilled spirit from Corsair Artisan (which makes what has become a go-to gin for a lot of serious gin fans in town). Eric Finch, the GM at SOL (McConnell’s “other” restaurant, across the street from Red Pony) dreamed up the cocktail recipes, and one can only hope they make it to the restaurants’ cocktail menus.

Jason’s photo by Sherry Clagg. Interior photo courtesy of the Tennessean.

Red Letter

Green Olive Media; and others from the food community joined in the fun. As always with a Slow Food event, convivium leader Robin Riddell was on hand to promote the concept of fresh, locally sourced foods, cooked and served in a convivial atmosphere that provides the polar opposite of the fast food drive-through.

McConnell credits the local farms with the inspiration for the evening’s courses.

“We really started out by contacting as many farmers as we could,” he says. “We found out what they had, and even got some surprises. I’d known about Tennessee fresh water prawns, for example, but had no idea they were so close.” (They were sourced from Harris Aquafarm in Springfield.)

From there, McConnell and his crew brainstormed their way through a final menu.

The big, sweet prawns were perfect for a variation on the shrimp and grits recipe that’s a customer favorite at Red Pony.

It must be said the menu itself was full of dishes that in theory might have been challenging to the palate—I say in theory, because I didn’t see anyone send back a plate with food on it. The first course’s goat cheese and beet salad, fresh boudin cake and chicken liver pâté might have surprised some audiences, but after trying everything fearlessly (maybe it’s that Slow Food environment that just encourages us to throw aside any preconceived notions of taste we might have), the audiences were raving. My Louisiana native boyfriend loved the boudin cake (being from Baton Rouge, he’s a boudin snob), and I heard a number of

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“I think what’s important to remind people here is that they take notice of where their food’s coming from. They can make their own investment in local farmers—meaning you, as the consumer, need to research what’s available around you. It requires a little forethought, but it’s worth it for quality and taste, and you’re really getting more and better for your money,” says McConnell.

“I love the idea of having a taste test dinner party—serve the same foods, locally bought and bought at the grocery store. I think you’ll be amazed by the taste difference.”

Red Pony Slow Food Dinner Nov. 11, 2009

menu

Appetizers Hillview Farms Beef Kofta with Creamy Yogurt Sauce Chocolate Mole Tostadita Seasonal Yazoo Beer

First Course Farm Sampler—Goat Cheese and Beet Salad Fresh Boudin Cake Chicken Liver Pâté Arrington Vineyards Gewurztraminer Second Course Sautéed Fresh Water Prawns with Jason’s Bacon and Cheese Grits Herbal Essence—Sparkling Cocktail featuring Corsair Artisan Gin Third Course Birria—Slow Cooked Mexican Stew with Goat and Vegetables Arrington Vineyards Red Fox Red Fourth Course Apple Pie with Goat Cheese Ice Cream Nash-Vanilla—Dessert Martini with Corsair Artisan Vanilla Vodka Final Taste Olive & Sinclair Chocolate LOCAL SOURCES: Hillview Farms, Real Food Farms, Harris Aquafarm, Old Spencer Mill, Mamushi Nature Farm, Morning Glory Orchard, Bonnie Blue Farm, Olive & Sinclair Chocolate.

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taste

Lime Light

I

n celebration of its second anniversary, Lime restaurant launched a new lunch menu in November. Our staff was more than excited to be invited over to test that menu, and on an unseasonably warm November afternoon, we gathered to sample the latest offerings and enjoy warm breezes and good company.

We began our tastings with a luscious ceviche trio that had us all raving, accompanied by fresh chips with three different types of salsa. It goes without saying that everyone had a different favorite, but no one was disappointed. Chiles with a variety of heat made sure everyone had something at a “temperature” their palates appreciated.

Though we might have filled ourselves on the excellent chips and salsa, the staff quickly brought tastings of mini-quesadillas and roasted tomato bisque, paired with a casacabel Caesar salad. This course too was a meal in itself, surprising us with little bursts of distinctive flavors.

The main course, believe it or not, followed on the heels of this—an abun-

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dant assortment of enchiladas, chimichangas and quesadillas, along with a gorgeous flyte of tacos, including fried fish, chicken, veggie and mushroom and steak. Served as they were with Lime slaw, black beans, refritos, roja and guac, there was no chance we could resist.

It being Lime, the full bar was there at our disposal (sadly, it was back to work for us, so we had to pass, but we’ve had the good fortune of exploring their excellent cocktails before). At some point in the future, perhaps on a day off, we’ll make better use of the bar during the sunny lunch hour.

If you’re in search of a great lunch location near the Gulch and Midtown, Lime is now in the mix. If you’re tired of the same old thing, then let Lime refresh your palate. If you’re just looking for something new—give it a go. And if you’ve never been to Lime before ... well, there’s no time like the present.

—Stephanie Stewart

Photos by Sherry Clagg.

Lime invites its customers to enjoy the exciting new lunch menu

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C O C KTA I L C O UTU R E • S P E C I A L P R O M OTI O N

Southern

COMFORT Oh, great! You’re just walking in after a long day at the office when you hear that your neighbors are stopping in for a little holiday joy. It happens all the time during the holidays, and what should be fun, sadly, becomes extra chores for you—cooking, cleaning, shopping ...You know the drill. So this year, why not prepare for the holidays with a few choice, easy-to-make, affordable cocktails that’ll lift everybody's spirits? And it’s SoCo to the Ho Ho Ho rescue!

All you need to do is have a few key ingredients on hand and you’ll be the host or hostess with the most-est. Here’s a grown-up list for Santa that will ensure jovial spirits throughout the season: Southern Comfort, limes, cranberry juice, orange juice, pineapple juice and maraschino cherries.

That’s all you need to whip up a variety of cocktails sure to tickle everyone’s fancy!

Southern Eggnog Martini Signature Cocktail 1 ounce Southern Comfort 3 ounces eggnog Combine chilled ingredients in a shaker (no ice).

Shake well. Strain into a chilled martini glass. Dust with nutmeg.

Southern Frost 1 1/2 ounce Southern Comfort 2 ounces cranberry juice 2 ounces ginger ale Glass: Tall Method: Stir Garnish: Lime wedge SoCo Barn Burner—Hot 1 1/2 ounces Southern Comfort Small cinnamon stick Slice of lemon peel Hot cider Glass: Mug Method: Stir Garnish: Cinnamon stick Holiday Punch Cocktail 1 1/2 ounces Southern Comfort 3 ounces pineapple juice 1 ounce club soda Splash of grenadine Fill a tall glass with ice. Squeeze a lime wedge over ice. Add all ingredients and stir. Garnish with a lime SoCo Shag 1 1/2 ounces Southern Comfort 2 ounces cranberry juice 1/2 ounce orange juice Fill a tall glass with ice. Add all ingredients and stir. Garnish with a lime wedge

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taste

Rum, By Gum The best rums to celebrate the holidays— and enjoy when the tinsel is gone

Rhum Barbancourt, 4 Year 3 Star Haiti, 86 Proof

BY JAMES HENSLEY

Rum Facts • Unless otherwise noted, most cooking recipes call for dark rum.

Light rum won’t give you those flavors we so love in holiday dishes.

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bourbon in a ‘nog. A good dark rum will provide richer flavors than bourbon and often makes for a softer mouth feel. We might also reconsider when to serve a ‘nog. Eggnog has become something we drink largely before Christmas, but it was traditionally consumed through New Year’s. In some parts of the country, it used to be customary to visit your friends’ homes on New Year’s Day and have a cup of ‘nog to toast their health and prosperity in the coming year.

I think a glass of eggnog on a January night would be a fantastic way to reflect on the newly concluded holidays and to contemplate what the future will bring.

Dark rum also works well in hot drinks and helps fight off the chill. You can have a delicious warm-up by doing something as simple as adding a little shot of dark rum to your after-dinner coffee.

Or perhaps it’s 9:30 p.m. and you want something warm. Instead of grabbing a cup of “why bother” (a.k.a. decaf), whip up a hot toddy. While whiskey or bourbon are quite common in a toddy, especially in Nashville, a dark or spiced rum can really bring a boring old toddy recipe to life.

Perhaps you want something to warm your holiday party guests? Greeting them with a little mug of hot buttered rum will be both welcomed and memorable.

To me, and to use a tired but (I’m sorry) true analogy, rum is the Cinderella of the holiday season—in the background behind Champagne, wine and bourbon, but creating many of the beverages and dishes that make our memories of the season so special. It offers a range of flavors that need to be experienced, not only in foods but in drinks as well—and who doesn’t need (or want) a good drink over the holidays? (And in January when we get the credit card statement).” So, try bringing rum out of the shadows and into the spotlight this season. It’s sure to be the belle of the … er, a good thing. >>> Find James Hensley’s recipe for hot buttered rum at NashvilleLifestyles.com

• Rum is also labeled as rhum or ron depending on where it comes from.

• “Solera” is a method of aging which blends product from various ages

together into the final bottling.

Thus a 23-year Solera might have rums as young as six years or as old as 23 in the blend.

Photo by Sherry Clagg

Y

es it’s that time of year again and Nashville, along with the rest of the Western world, is tightly in the grip of the holidays and all the traditions that they entail. Gifts will be exchanged.

We’ll all overeat. There will be parties we both love and dread to attend, and—oh yes, there will be much consumption of holiday “cheer.” Cheer in the form of bubbly and bourbon is the regional favorite, but there’s another traditional winter weather warmer that should be in contention for the top holiday tipple … rum!

I’m not talking about those light rums that scream summer when served in a Mojito or daiquiris. No, I mean aged rums. Dark rums that show warm caramel and molasses notes work so well with the flavors of the holidays. Their versatility is unmatched for both cold weather cocktail creation and cooking.

In an earlier time, this argument would have been unneeded because rum was very popular in early America. It was cheaper and more plentiful in the colonies than brandy and whiskey, which for the most part had to be imported from Europe. Likewise, many Americans revised their Old World holiday food and drink recipes, using rum rather than the more costly and rarer European spirits—and were rewarded with amazing results. Soon rum was just as common to the holiday shopping list as turkey or ham. These seasonal traditions last to this very day, as households from Hermitage to Hillsboro Village will soon be making those old family recipes and breaking out bottles for rum balls, rum cakes, fruit cakes and the polarizing concoction that is eggnog.

You either love ‘nog, or hate ‘nog. Some people can’t get past the egg part. However, many Middle Tennessee residents are taking an interest in the current classic cocktail renaissance, and as they do I’m seeing lots of people rethinking their aversion to egg in a cocktail. So this may be a good time to take a fresh look at the eggnog.

We might also be open to rethinking the use of

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A Few Selected Recommendations Matusalem Classico Rum, 10 Year Solera Dominican Republic, 80 Proof — $22 This rum is labeled “Cuban Style” because it was the best selling Cuban rum in preCastro times, but Castro’s Communist regime forced the company out of the country. It was reborn in the Dominican Republic in the ‘70s and is once again available for the world to enjoy. The nose is defined by soft caramel, coconut and a hint of red apple. The palate is quite smooth and clean, with flavors of brown sugar, vanilla and a touch of cinnamon. It drinks a little like a bourbon and would make a good substitution when bourbon is required in your holiday recipe. Very solid for the price.

Rhum Barbancourt, 4 Year 3 Star Haiti, 86 Proof — $20 Barbancourt offers a solid line of rhums in various ages. The four-year is a lighter style that is a little drier than some of the others reviewed here. The nose shows a touch of caramel cream, light apricot and lemon zest notes while the palate has soft molasses and honey flavors with just a touch of spice. The 86 proof shows with just a touch of heat on the finish. Pair this with ingredients that are light in flavor like pineapple or pears.

Flor de Cana Gold, 4 Year Nicaragua, 80 Proof — $15 This is the value of the bunch reviewed here. At about the same price as the biggest selling rum in America, Bacardi, it’s far superior in both flavor and quality.

The nose is full of vanilla and caramel. The palate continues the caramel but also brings a touch of maple syrup. The finish shows only a slight note of heat, which is far less noticeable than that of its previously mentioned competitor. The full flavors make it perfect for baking or egg nog.

Prichard’s Fine Dark Rum Kelso, Tenn., 80 Proof — $38 Who says Tennessee can’t make rum just as well as whiskey? No one who knows that Mr. Prichard has come on the scene.

The entire line is outstanding but most are of the price point to be sipped or mixed rather than cooked with, although you would be well rewarded if you did so. The dark rum offers a rich full nose of pear, apples and vanilla. The palate is full of

brown sugar with notes of apple, banana and cinnamon in the finish. It’s clean and has a really nice, long finish. This would be a fantastic option for a top shelf version of the hot buttered rum.

Ron Zacapa Centenario, Solera 23 Year Guatemala, 80 Proof — $47 This is best served after the celebration, around

a fire. It’s a super-smooth sipping style of rum that has a flavor profile and richness that will win over even those that don’t drink spirits straight. The nose is full and soft with dark molasses and sweet vanilla notes. The palate combines more molasses and vanilla with maple and prune. It’s long in the finish and will cap off the evening perfectly.

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taste

Flyte Co-chefs Ashley Quick and Jennifer Franzen, Pastry Chef Erica Waksmunski

w

BY STEPHANIE STEWART

hile most good restaurants are proud to boast one stellar chef, Flyte takes its pride from the fact that it has three, all working together to make your visit to the popular eatery a stellar experience.

Quick is the new kid on the block for Flyte. The Charlotte native grew up cooking with his grandparents, and he knows his way around a farm from those days too (yet another chef in town we can genuinely label a porkavore). He studied at Central Piedmont Community College in Charlotte, apprenticed with the 2000 Culinary Olympic team, and further honed his considerable skills at the legendary London establishment Fat Duck, Clio in Boston and Bouchon in Napa Valley. Quick came to Nashville with a fellow chef to work at Belle Meade Country Club and spent time at Capitol Grille with Tyler Brown before moving to Flyte. We love him for his devotion to fresh, local food—and we’re glad he’s supporting our great farm community.

Chef Jennifer Franzen Hailing from upstate New York, Franzen has been with Flyte from the beginning, and her devotion shows when your plate is set in front of you.

Largely self-taught, Franzen is the go-to lasagna maker, and celebrates food that originates from her cultural heritage—German and Italian. The daughter of a vegetarian, she’s also admirably committed to making sure Flyte offers serious, balanced vegetarian and vegan meals for customers that aren’t merely afterthoughts on a meat-centric menu. She too loves it all fresh and local, and wants guests to know that Flyte is all about preparing your meals when you order—nothing’s pre-made and sitting all day, and that’s a rarity. “It makes for a challenging environment,” she says with a smile. She’s up to the challenge.

Pastry Chef Erica Waksmunski Erica Waksmunshi believes that dessert is the most important course.

“It’s important to end the whole meal well,” she says. The Johnson & Wales graduate followed her schooling with an internship at the prestigious Everest restaurant in Chicago, then took a position as assistant pastry chef. Having lived in Nashville prior to her culinary school days, she wanted to come back, and shortly thereafter found herself at Flyte, after, she says, a “strange series of events.” Noted for her ability to make an incredible dessert out of almost anything in season, and for a love of blending sweet with salty or savory tastes, she’s currently having fun with her smoker— making smoked hot chocolate and beignets with smoked flour and sugar, to be precise. We can’t wait to taste them. We know they’ll be exquisite.

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(l-r) Jennifer Franzen, Erica Waksmunski and Ashley Quick Seasonal Soup With Winter Parsnips From Ashley Quick 1 pound parsnips 2 ribs celery 1 white onion 1 quart heavy cream 1 vanilla bean

••••••

sachet of fresh thyme, bay leaf, peppercorns 1/4 pound butter salt and pepper

Cut the parsnips into pieces and roast in the oven. Sweat the onions and celery in butter, then add the roasted parsnips. Add in the remaining ingredients and simmer until soft. Puree the mixture in the blender, then season with salt and pepper to taste.

Corn Flan and Rice Wine Caramel From Jennifer Franzen

••••••

RICE WINE VINEGAR 150 grams (about 5.2 ounces) sugar 35 grams (about 1.25 ounces) rice wine vinegar

Bring sugar to caramel state, deglaze with rice wine vinegar, and immediately pour into bowls.

CORN FLAN 12 ounces cooked corn kernels 6 cloves garlic, chopped 1 large shallot, chopped

1 smoked jalapeno 1 pint corn cream 5 eggs Butter

Saute the garlic, shallot and corn in a teaspoon of butter, season with salt and black pepper. Puree everything together, strain and pour into cups with caramel set. Cook in a water bath at 325 degrees for about 45 minutes .

••••••

Brownies From Erica Waksmunski 2 1/2 cups flour 2 teaspoons of salt (don’t be afraid about being heavy-handed with the salt)

1 pound butter 12 ounces dark chocolate 3 1/2 cups sugar 8 eggs

Whip half the eggs with half the sugar, until light and fluffy. Melt the butter and chocolate together, then add the remaining eggs and sugar to this mixture. Once blended, fold the melted chocolate mixture into the eggs. Then fold in the dry ingredients. Pour into a 9x9 pan.

Bake at 350 degrees for about 325 minutes.

Photo by Sherry Clagg.

Chef Ashley Quick

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taste

Top 5 Places to Ring in 2010

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t’s an annual event—most of us questing for something innovative for dinner on New Year’s Eve. Skip relaxing on the couch and watching the ball drop, as we’ve put together a list of restaurants for your dining pleasure to guarantee you can’t resist going out on the most exciting night of the year. So put on something fantastic, head to one of these fabulous places for a brilliant night and ring in the New Year with friends or that special someone in a locale worth celebrating.

SOL This stunning, upscale, authentic Mexican restaurant on Franklin’s historic Main Street offers a laid-back environment while highlighting the lush, distinctive flavors in its exquisitely made, fresh cuisine. Using only the best ingredients from local distributors, SOL creates “palate-blasting” dishes, and their bar is simply outstanding. On Dec. 31, SOL offers a fourcourse dinner and champagne toast for $60 per person. There are two seating options at the restaurant: 5:30 and 8 p.m. You also have an opportunity to see The Wooten Brothers perform, so don’t miss out. 403 Main St., Franklin, (615) 538-6021.

The Capitol Grille Located inside the Hermitage Hotel, this splendid restaurant boasts a menu to delight and tempt your senses. The brilliant Tyler Brown and his talented crew are passionate about using local sources for their culinary creations. To ring in the New Year, The Capitol Grille offers a four-course meal for their first round of seating at $95 per person as well as a jazz band to complement the evening. First-round seating is offered at 5 and 7 p.m. At 9:30 p.m., the second round of seating will begin and finish with a five-course meal, champagne toast at midnight and jazz band ($135). Don’t miss out on this great night at one of the oldest and most celebrated venues in town. 231 Sixth Ave. N., (615) 345-7116.

Eastland Café At East Nashville’s Eastland Café, you’ll find an inviting environment for any occasion—but especially for New Year’s Eve. The relaxing but elegant vibe at Eastland complements their marvelous food, and you won’t want to miss the pairings from their wine list. Seating on New Year’s Eve starts at 5 p.m. with the last reservation at 11. Reservations aren’t required, but strongly recommended. They’ll offer a four-course meal for $65. If you’re seeking a great place to enjoy the evening at an affordable price, Eastland Café will not disappoint. 97 Chapel Ave., (615) 627-1088.

Giovanni Ristorante Bar This high-end Italian restaurant, located in Midtown, offers cuisine inspired by the northeastern regions of Italy. The chic atmosphere and gracious décor adds to the Old World charm. Giovanni Ristorante will offer a four-course gourmet Italian meal for $80 per person from 4 to 7:30 p.m. After 7:30, the price of the extensive menu selection will be $100.

The Tuscan influence you’ll find is unmatched in Nashville. If you’re looking for romance or just an intimate setting on New Year’s Eve, Giovanni’s is the place to be. 909 20th Ave. S., (615) 760-5932.

Red Pony With two floors of casual dining, this contemporary American restaurant located on Franklin’s historic Main Street offers eclectic menu selections to keep your palate guessing. On New Year’s Eve, Red Pony offers a dinner and champagne toast for $80 per person. There will be rolling seating, but reservations are strongly encouraged at this celebrated downtown Franklin establishment. If you have a VIP card after dining at Red Pony, skip the $10 cover and head over to SOL to watch The Wooten Brothers. It’s sure to be a night you won’t forget. 408 Main St., Franklin, (615) 595-7669.

All stated prices are base, and do not include tax or gratuity.

— Gillian Wise

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St. Regis Hotel Lobby

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working for the weekend

Use up lost vacation days with short trips that provide a hassle-free escape and a big return on fun B Y S TA C I E S TA N D I F E R Planning an entire week of vacation can be a hassle even when everyone else is doing it in the early summer. At this time of year—forget about it. Holiday expenses and obligations make it nearly impossible to even consider taking off more than a couple of days at work. But during this hectic season, a getaway can be more rewarding. Whether it’s solo, a romantic escape or a girls’ retreat, nothing is more rejuvenating than taking a break and experiencing a different environment to revive your senses.

Atlanta The simplest trips to plan are often those where you can skip dealing with the hassle of the airport and flight expenses and just jump in the car. In the same amount of time it takes to fly to the West Coast, you can arrive in your own vehicle at the South’s own mecca for shopping, dining and culture that is Atlanta. Yes, traffic for Atlantans is a bit messy, perhaps not something you want to consider navigating on a peaceful weekend; but, thanks to the location of a brand new hotel in the area, once you arrive at your destination, everything you desire is within easy access—eliminating any need for dealing with the freeway or traffic jams.

If you haven’t been to Atlanta in awhile, you may not be aware of an entirely new reason to visit: the newly completed, ultra-plush St. Regis Hotel. Located in the heart of Buckhead, this soaring property is quickly becoming a favorite of visitors and locals alike due to unparalleled service and remarkable accommodations. On 26 floors, there are 151 lavishly appointed guest rooms and suites, a state-of-the-art fitness facility and a signature Remède Spa. If you haven’t visited another St Regis location, you’re in for a treat, as their rooms truly are spectacular. With such comfortable, gorgeous surroundings, leaving the hotel room to explore may be a challenge. (And the suites are beyond luxurious.) I suggest asking for the availability of the Carolina Astor Suite, which includes a full sitting room, an oversized, immaculate bath and a tile and stone balcony that rivals that of most homes. The fact that rooms and suites come with 24-hour butler service is a bonus, and it comes in handy for everything from securing reservations to stocking the bar to your liking.

St. Regis Wine Bar

Actually, a reservation here gives you instant access to the most sought-after tables and experiences in town, making the indulgence a clear value for your vacation investment. That’s probably why their roster of guests already includes top music celebrities and dignitaries who depend on the hotel staff for superior service to access the best of the hotel and Atlanta.

The good news is you don’t have to be an A-lister to get star treatment, as it’s standard for all guests—especially those electing to enjoy a meal at the property’s signature restaurant, Paces 88.

Despite the plethora of dining options nearby, a meal here is an

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St. Regis Empire Suite

occasion in itself, with an inventive menu of Southern favorites and an expansive wine list. If you want to stay and luxuriate in your glorious suite, not to worry, as the restaurant also provides room service—ideal for starting your day, prior to enjoying some of the nearby attractions.

One of the most exciting things happening at the St Regis Atlanta this season is the first hotel ice rink in the city, produced as a result of the St. Regis teaming with Coca-Cola. To celebrate their inaugural holiday season, they’re unveiling the Astor Holiday Rink in a spectacular outdoor setting. Specially priced packages allow for family weekends where all ages can enjoy the outdoor skating combined with activities like tea with Santa and a festive cocktail menu in the bar. For less than $400 per night, you can enjoy the Indulge in Holiday Traditions packages that include skating for two adults and two children, accommodations, keepsake mugs and of course, take away steaming hot cocoa. This is a rare find in the South, so take advantage of this year as a treat for the whole family or a group of your friends. An outdoor fire and special treats are all

Yountville, CA Have you checked the online specials on Southwest.com lately? If not, I suggest you explore the options. If you’re flexible with your date and time of flight, you can be transported from ho-hum to hallelujah in about four hours. Direct flights to San Francisco, Oakland or San Jose easily lead to the gorgeous California valley that is Napa.

Once you arrive, a short and beautiful drive transports you to immediate tranquility.

Many parts of the vast Napa Valley wine region are worth exploring, but my favorite place to stay has always been in the heart of Yountville. From here, it’s a quick jaunt to every winery, and as a bonus, you don’t have to drive to enjoy the very best that the area has to offer. While that’s always been the case, it just got better with the opening of the Bardessono Inn and Spa. > pg. 122 120 NASHVILLELIFESTYLES.COM

part of the experience.

When venturing out of the hotel, you don’t have to go far for the very best shopping and dining. Within a short distance are the always popular Lenox Square Mall and Phipps Plaza mega centers. But what I like most is the close proximity to some truly unique shops and boutiques. Directly across the street from the hotel is Sage, a haven of designer goods for women at fair prices.

Just down the road are luxury retailers like the bespoke store for men Sid Mashburn and the children’s specialty retailers B. Braithwaite and Sprout. If you’re in the market for home items, a must-stop on your list is B.D. Jeffries, where you’ll find every possible luxury leather good, apparel accessories, amazing antiques and lighting, plus unusual gifts unlike anything I’ve seen elsewhere.

For dining outside the hotel, there are so many excellent choices, it’s hard to actually make a decision. Some of the newer options include Abattoir, the latest venture by Chef Anne Quatrano, which features locally raised meats and a rustic atmosphere. Park 75 is also an excellent choice for both cocktails and dinner, and especially festive when they begin offering their Celebrity Chocolate Buffet in February. Sushi enthusiasts rave about the creations at MF Buckhead, and now the restaurant has a newly opened, late night lounge called MF Room, with lower priced tastings in a chic, relaxed atmosphere. To fuel up at lunch for some power shopping, check out Flip, a fun spot with a focus on fresh burgers with every imaginable topping available and a milkshake bar. For a classic meal in a club-like setting, you cannot go wrong with a reservation at BLT Steak, one of the city’s favorites for big portions and even bigger flavor.

Whether you’re looking for a couple’s retreat or a weekend of family fun and entertainment, Atlanta has something to offer. With a new stately hotel and the ice skating option, it rivals a weekend in New York City, with much less expense, hassle and travel time. All in all, it is the perfect weekend away.

Bardessono Courtyard

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Atlanta

Park 75 Chocolate Buffet

Stay St. Regis Atlanta 88 West Paces Ferry Road/Buckhead (404) 563-7900 stregis.com/atlanta Shop The Shops at Star Provisions Sid Mashburn, Bacchanalia, B. Braithwaite and Sprout 1198 Howell Mill Road Sage Buckhead Market Place 37D West Paces Ferry Road (404) 233-8280 sageclothing.com B.D. Jeffries 3736-B Roswell Road (404) 231-3004 bdjeffries.com

St. Regis photos by Bruce Buck. Chocolate photo by Cliff Robinson.

Eat Abattoir 1170 Howell Mill Road (404) 892-3335 starprovisions.com Park 75 Four Seasons Hotel 75 14th St. (404) 253-3840 fourseasons.com/atlanta MF Buckhead 3280 Peachtree St. (404) 841-1192 mfbuckhead.com Flip 1587 Howell Mill Road (404) 352-FLIP (3547) flipburgerboutique.com BLT Steak Atlanta The W Atlanta Downtown 45 Ivan Allen Jr. Blvd.

(404) 577-7601 bltsteak.com

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The fresh herb and vegetable garden at Bardessono

This brand new resort makes a far better choice than some of those B&Bs you’ve no doubt seen online. At Bardessono, you have the best of all possible worlds for your escape: The rooms and adjacent porches and balconies provide extreme luxury and privacy, but they’re located just steps away from the area’s most famous and sought-after restaurants and shopping.

Yes, this is a “green” property, and that means it’s a bit different than a standard B&B, but in no way does that mean you sacrifice any comfort. Instead, it’s the ultimate indulgence. You can just enjoy relaxing a bit more knowing that the sustainable buildings and operations are helping preserve the environment.

Automatic, energy-saving shades will open and close as you enter or leave your room. The food ordered from room service (fantastic) or enjoyed in the restaurant often includes herbs and fresh veggies from the onsite garden. The developers and staff have taken special steps to ensure that their efforts to be responsible go hand-in-hand with their goals to pamper guests in every way.

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In-room set ups for spa services are standard—and a concept that makes perfect sense. The design is genius, with little wasted space despite rooms that qualify as oversized, even when compared to other sprawling resorts. A second-story pool and bar, with a courtyard housing dining space, maximize the outdoor area.

Reclaimed materials make up the majority of the exterior fabric for the cluster of suites. The interiors include fireplaces, every possible technological convenience, plush linens and incredible baths.

Once outside the room, you’ll find complimentary bicycles, trails and easy access to the most interesting shops in Napa. Within steps you can arrive at the popular Hurley’s Restaurant & Bar, Thomas Keller’s incredible Bouchon French bistro and bakery or my favorite restaurant, Bottega.

Bottega is the famous restaurant of celebrated chef Michael Chiarello and not to be missed. While almost every eatery in Napa is excellent, this particular spot is still new and has created quite a stir on the dining scene in Yountville. House-cured olives, homemade pastas and vegetables from the chef’s garden are all standard. Entrees include fish and meat prepared with a creative flair, in generous portions perfect for sharing. A romantic but lively atmosphere combined with friendly service and a stellar wine selection complete the list of reasons to secure a dinner reservation.

When not contemplating where to have your next meal—often a difficult decision based on the number of tempting choices— you’ll want to explore a few of the area’s other offerings, especially the nearby vineyards. There are a multitude within a short distance, including many boutique operations that provide a personal experience and an enjoyable environment for tasting and learning more about the varietals. One to put on your list is Girard Winery, and of course, look for your own favorite brands online— you’re likely to find more than a few nearby.

It’s worth driving a couple of miles to Oakville to visit Gargiulo Vineyards where winemakers create delicious blends and pair their love for wine with a love for all things music and a Nashville connection. In fact, on my visit, Nashville’s own Billy Dean was hosting one of the vineyard’s seasonal Oakville Sessions, where Music City musicians gather to play overlooking the gorgeous vines.

If you want to combine shopping with your wine, try a fairly new outpost called Ma(i)sonry. It’s a two-story design showcasing gorgeous art, plus distinctive home furnishings and décor for

Bottega photo by Bill Reitzel.

Oakville Sessions

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purchase, along with tastings from a variety of local wineries. It really is the ultimate shopping experience.

There are countless ways to enjoy a weekend in Yountville, from relaxing at the Bardessono to exploring the dining, shopping and natural excursions nearby. It’s one trip that will leave you completely pampered and totally at ease.

Yountville/Napa

Short ribs and smashed potatoes from Bottega.

Bardessono 6526 Yount St. (707) 204-6000 bardessono.com Bottega 6525 Washington St. (707) 945-1050 botteganapavalley.com Ma(i)sonry 6711 Washington St. (707) 944-0889 maisonary.com Girard Winery 6795 Washington St. (707) 968-9297 girardwinery.com Gargiulo Vineyards 575 Oakville Crossroad (707) 944-2770 gargiulovineyards.com

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Emily Saliers

hookslines &singers

By Ali Seiderman and Lisa Karvellas

30A hosts a new music festival well worth taking the time to enjoy

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Gary Louris

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scape this Martin Luther King, Jr., holiday weekend for three days in the sun, listening to crashing waves and world-class music on the Gulf of Mexico in Northwest Florida. On Jan. 15-17, some of the most talented international singer-songwriters, together with the best local writers and hand-selected fresh-faced artists, will converge for the inaugural 30A Songwriters Festival, produced by the Cultural Arts Association (CAA) of Walton County, Fla. Spanning 25 miles along picturesque Highway 30A, more than 60 distinguished artists and new talents alike are scheduled to perform between Friday and Sunday.

Festivities begin with a kick-off celebration for all artists and ticket holders at the world famous Bud and Alley’s on the water in Seaside, Fla. But the party doesn’t stop there—for the remainder of the weekend, plan to explore the charming beach towns along Highway 30A—including Alys Beach, Rosemary Beach, Seaside, Miramar Beach, WaterColor and Grayton Beach—while enjoying non-stop exclusive performances and events at your leisure.

30A’s relaxed yet inspiring ambiance is reflected in the venue selection, as locally acclaimed establishments along the coast host each performance, rather than an overwhelming concert hall or arena. From laid-back beach bars to elegant restaurants, local theatres and town halls, visitors immerse themselves in each town’s distinct personality while listening to the intimate performances. The smaller venues are ideal for the solo concerts and multi-artist singing and storytelling sessions, allowing attendees to connect and engage with performers in an informal environment.

With musical acts ranging from country and Americana to folk and rock and roll, the diverse collection of artists pack the 30A Festival with live quality entertainment in an Jeffrey Steele unassuming, casual atmosphere. Ticket holders can anticipate headlining performances by singer-songwriters including Emily Saliers of Indigo Girls, Gary Louris of the Jayhawks, three-time Grammy nominee and “Nashville Star” judge Jeffrey Steele, John Oates of pop duo Hall & Oates, Grammy award winner and “King of Newgrass” Sam Bush and many more.

By purchasing a $40 weekend pass (or $20/day individually), you can spend this three-day weekend traveling through South Walton enjoying salty breezes, white sand beaches, superior shopping and terrific dining, while closing each day listening to live performances by gifted artists. The diversity of talent, music and experience paired with the quaint personal venues make the 30A a worthwhile experience and “different from a typical songwriters festival,” says Walton County CAA Executive Director Jennifer Steele Saunders.

Tickets are on sale now and may be purchased locally at Central Square Records in Seaside and in Blue Mountain Beach at the office of the Cultural Arts Association, or online at 30ASongwritersFestival.com. For more information, visit CulturalArtsAssociation.com or call the CAA office at (850) 622-5970.

John Oates

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PARTIES

Entertainer of the Year, Album of the Year, Music Video of the Year and Female Vocalist of the Year winner Taylor Swift at the 2009 CMA Awards.

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Nashville’s Biggest Night Each year, thousands of fans from all over the world flock to Nashville to see their favorite stars at the annual CMA Awards. From the red carpet arrivals filled with national media personalities to the lively after-parties where artists and industry insiders celebrate big wins, it’s a night filled with excitement, music and celebrity sightings. [1] Sugarland’s Jennifer Nettles, UMG Nashville Chairman Luke Lewis and Sugarland’s Kristian Bush at Universal/MCA after-party [2] Capitol president Mike Duncan with Charles Kelley, Hillary Scott and Dave Haywood of Lady Antebellum at the Capitol Records after-party [3] Carrie Underwood [4] Tim McGraw and Faith Hill [5] Lee Ann Womack and Kris Kristofferson [6] Keith Urban and Nicole Kidman [7] Brad Paisley [8] Reba McEntire

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Photos courtesy Country Music Association, The Tennessean, Capitol Records and Universal Records.

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For the Love of George was held at the Country Music Hall of Fame on Oct. 9, with committee members Jeff Pereira and Shane Tarleton offering heartfelt speeches. A candle lighting ceremony honored friends and family affected by Alzheimer’s disease, and musical performances by Kathy Mattea, Mindy Smith, Lane Nash, Katie Armiger and Emily West completed the evening.

All proceeds went to benefit the Alzheimer’s Foundation. [1] Dawn Thomas and Benji Maggart [2] Emily West [3] Gidget Pugh, Tim Pugh and Beth Dundon [4] Deanna Lambert and Josh DeVine [5] Laurissa Ryan and Walt Phillips [6] Christi Royer and Susan Epperson [7] Mindy Lawrence and Christina Weathers

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Photos by Tonya Glasgow.

For the Love of George

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The 57th Annual BMI Country Awards celebrated the genre’s top hit-makers. In addition to toasting the writers and publishers of the past year’s 50 most-performed country songs from the BMI repertoire, the ceremony honored Kris Kristofferson as a BMI Icon, named Taylor Swift’s “Love Story” Song of the Year, dubbed Bobby Pinson the Songwriter of the Year and Sony/ATV Music was named Publisher of the Year. The event saluted the now-split duo Brooks & Dunn with the BMI President’s Award. [1] Sara Evans [2] Miranda Lambert and Heidi Newfield [3] Christiev Alphin and Big Kenny [4] Bobby Pinson and Clay Bradley [5] Zac Brown Band [6] Ronnie Dunn, Jody Williams, Del Bryant and Kix Brooks

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Photos courtesy BMI.

BMI Awards

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Wine Down Main Street On Nov. 6, Franklin hosted its annual Wine Down Main Street event. It has increased significantly over the years, becoming the largest ticketed charity event in Williamson County, raising more than $700,000 for the Boys & Girls Club of Franklin/Williamson County.

Sponsored by Hallmark Volkswagen, others contributing included Lipman Distributing, A Loft, Meridian of Cool Springs, Green Bank and Nashville Lifestyles. Food stations from Bonefish Grill, Sperry’s, and more offered fantastic appetizers throughout the evening.

[1] Susan Griswald, Stacey and Brian Freeman [2] Kim Stinsom and Tonya Thomas [3] Chaney Scott, Dana Smith and Chris Jewel [4] CeLee Suggs and Jasmine Morgan [5] Jim Tilley, Donna Duke, Anita Tilley and Brad Duke [6] Neal and Terresa Caldwell

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Songwriters, artists and music industry executives gathered to honor those responsible for this year’s most successful recordings in country music. The ceremonies, featuring live performances, were conducted in the historic Ryman Auditorium. A post-awards party was held at the top of the AT&T Tower downtown, where hundreds of writers and their peers celebrated the ASCAP honors.

[1] Herkie Williams, Kenny Chesney and Keith Anderson [2] Trace Adkins, Connie Bradley and Paul Williams [3] Winston and Lisa Harless [4] Gerry and Allison House [5] Connie Harrington and John Mabe [6] Catherine Werne and David Nail [7] Ashley Gorley and Dierks Bentley

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Photos courtesy ASCAP.

ASCAP Awards

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The beautiful ballroom of the Hutton Hotel was transformed to an ultra-lounge for this casually chic event benefiting Second Harvest Food Bank. Live dance music by the hit band Burning Las Vegas was the centerpiece of the event, which also included a silent auction and an array of food stations for guests to enjoy. [1] Courtney McCracken and Billy Stark [2] Bob and Kim Morgan, Charlotte and Darren Haws [3] Doug Crider, Suzy Bogguss, David Preston and Emily Taylor [4] Jeff Stone and Sylvia Roberts [5] Audra Fair, Jarvis Hicks and Michelle Marshall [6] Rob Bironas and Tandra Caldwell [7] Sarah Gaffney and Keith Douglas

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Photos by Tonya Glasgow.

Harvest Moon Ball

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Changes

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What are you waiting for?

Change Your Home, Change Your Life™ www.mollandersonhome.com

Photo by Michael Gomez.

t

he shift from wrapping up gifts to wrapping up another year always means change for me. It’s such an exciting time because it also represents new beginnings. It’s an opportunity to really examine our lives, homes, relationships and the lifestyle that we have chosen.

We decide what’s right or wrong with the choices we’ve made or what we absolutely want to change. The deceased contemporary artist Andy Warhol holds one of my favorite quotes: “They always say time changes things, but you actually have to change them yourself.” That’s exactly what I believe—you have to take action to change your life. You have to mentally make the decision to start to create that one that you have been dreaming about.

This is my visionary month. I make a vision board of the things I want to pray for or accomplish for the future. A vision board helps in navigating a path and to visualize exactly what you want to strive for by giving you a picture to look at daily and a reminder that you have a plan and that each day is a step toward making it happen.

Sounds simple, or maybe even silly? Well, let me tell you that my board from last year has several things that I cut from magazines

and pictures that represented what I was visualizing that have absolutely come true! So, what have you got to lose? Not one thing.

A board is also a great way to help you begin to find out what’s going on deep inside your soul. It really does help to find the passion you need to be successful.

Denis Diderot, a writer from the 18th century Enlightenment period, said; “Only passions, great passions, can elevate the soul to great things.” I believe that with all of my heart.

It’s like when you meet your soul mate. The joy is so overwhelming that you just want to shout it from the mountaintops. Everything is more beautiful than ever. The grass is greener, the birds are singing, you can just sit for hours and listen to each other talk. Everything in your life now makes sense. It’s like looking in a mirror. The joy is so amazing and all of a sudden you want to soar like an eagle.

That’s the feeling you can also capture when you come face to face with your destiny. It’s a fantastic similar joy and that’s when you will begin to blossom into the person you are meant to be, and it’s never too late.

How do you make this vision board? First, get comfortable, which for me is usually sitting on the floor. Grab all the magazines you can carry, scissors, a glue stick and some foam core board from an art supply store. Slowly go through the pages of the magazines.

It’s a process, so if something hits you while you’re turning the pages and you’re not sure it’s really something you want to use, pull the page and start a pile.

Sometimes it’s a vacation spot, car, home or even word the says what you’re feeling, like “success,” or an amount of money you’re hoping to be making by the end of the year. Cut out and collect anything that speaks to or inspires you, or anything you dream about having, then glue them onto your board. It’s so simple, and can be fun for the entire family. What a great example you can set for your children by having them help. They can learn to make their own.

A vision board teaches them (and us) the importance of setting goals, working hard to achieve them and believing in themselves.

They will dare to dream like small children. Remember what that was like when you were a child? Flying like Superman didn’t seem that impossible. It’s all about the vision and hope to make it happen.

Make your vision your mission! What are you waiting for?

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