#jazz gulf coast soul
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Our first performance of the Spring is going down at @tulipsftw on April 25th. We will be joined by North Texas’ own @midnightthirtyusa, and it’s an honor to share the stage with them! The amazing @jes_jess will open the show, so make a plan to get there early!
Photos by @agave_bloom_photography
#jess garland#midnight thirty#the suffers#tulips#fort worth#dallas#north texas#texas music#jazz gulf coast soul#soul#gulf coast soul#funk
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"Don't Sweat The Technique" is Eric B and Rakim's "Techno Pop". One of the most influential groups of any genre looking for ideas as their time comes to an end, with the genre having finally passed them by.
Rakim was itching to branch out on his own, with Eric needing his meal ticket to stick around. Eric's involvement in this album's production, as with their previous ones, was subject to controversy; this time it was Large Professor whose work was credited to Eric B, echoing what happened on Kool G Rap and DJ Polo's "Wanted Dead Or Alive".
The production itself is indicative of this, built on a range of jazz samples, and sounding more fleshed-out musically than "Let the Rhythm Hit 'Em". In fact, it sounds a lot like Large Professor's work on "Breaking Atoms".
It was this album that best indicates the passing of time since "Paid in Full". Arguably the most famous track off "Breaking Atoms" is "Live At The Barbecue"; well-known for an incredible debut verse from ("Nasty") Nas. His style was concise while also evocative, and was hugely influenced by Rakim's work. He was not the only big name of the so-called "Golden Age" who was, but in releasing what is still hip-hop's most heralded album, he ushered in a new age for the genre.
"Don't Sweat The Technique" is a great album, but also an indicator that the point had been made over the last 3 albums. Rakim wanted to go solo in order to expand his scope creatively, but Eric B was more reluctant. Thus, the album consists of a couple of songs already heard from film soundtracks, some different takes on subjects of varying quality, and some simple breakbeat tracks reminiscent of previous work.
The album begins with "What's On Your Mind" from the House Party 2 soundtrack; a soulful pop song about love that screams "airplay", and works well enough at that. It's at least better than their turn on "Friends" by Jody Watley. "Teach The Children" is a vague attempt at a socially-conscious track, with a middling beat and bad chorus. Forgettable stuff; the next track, "Pass The Hand Grenade", is much better; a song reminiscent of "Lyrics of Fury" or "Let the Rhythm Hit 'Em". It's a breakbeat with Rakim excelling in his comfort zone, creatively telling everyone what a great rapper he is.
"Casualties of War" is a complete change from this; Rakim speaks from the POV of an American soldier in the Gulf War, experiencing the death of his comrades, feeling conflicted about his role in the war, and suffering with PTSD afterwards. He never sounds like he's stretching himself, and it's a hard-hitting song that ranks as one of the group's best. "Rest Assured" is back to normality; musically it's another track that's fleshed out, with crashing drums and soul samples, but it's business as usual for Rakim.
"The Punisher" is one of the duo's most bizarre. A good beat, filled with cowbells and jazz samples, is complemented by Rakim's unique rap. His screaming delivery is unlike anything he's done before or since, and goes completely against the carefully-crafted persona of the perpetually unmoveable, chilled-out deep thinker. It's difficult to justify lyrics like, "KILL 'EM AGAIN! AGAIN AND AGAIN! AGAIN AND AGAIN!" but even if the album feels like the duo coasting, this will live long in the memory. It's also an early entry in the horrorcore subgenre that a certain white Rakim devotee would repeat to great acclaim later on (not Cage; the other one).
Whoever sequenced the album deserves a raise, as that display is followed by "Relax With Pep", a song about him being relaxed. This and "Keep The Beat" are another couple of songs that follow the formula: okay beats, great raps by Rakim about the same topic. After that, Rakim comments on the experience of disadvantaged black men living in the US projects. Calling such a song "What's Going On?" is always going to create unreachable expectations, and as things stand, it's...okay. The rap's good enough, the beat isn't.
Next is another already-released song, "Know The Ledge" - previously "Juice (Know The Ledge") off of the Juice soundtrack. This is the high point of the album, and one of the duo's best in any book. A simple, pacy but jazzy beat has Rakim rapping from the POV of a schoolboy that turns to dealing drugs. It's a cautionary tale in the vein of "Children's Story" - the boy gets caught up in the glamour of crime, before being murdered at the end. Rakim never sounds preachy in what is an interesting take on a familiar theme. One would think that Dr. Dre heard this and missed the intended irony, demanding that Rakim rap about these same themes later on.
"Don't Sweat The Technique" is a great, jazz-infused beat with Rakim telling people what a chilled-out great rapper he is. "Kick Along" closes the album with a stylistic (if not lyrical) shift, with Rakim rapping over a fast beat and not sounding stretched at all.
The album as a whole is competent; but it's dull in a way that makes one think it was lucky that things ended here. A year afterwards, Rakim worked with the Bomb Squad's Gary G-Wiz on "Heat It Up". Eric B's next work was the amusing "Still Paid"; basically an attempt to carry on regardless. Not to defend it, but there have been many worse producer-rappers. A year after that, Rakim re-established his reputation with "The 18th Letter", proving that while he still had it, the group couldn't have continued after this logical end.
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Rare Beauty of Raahe
Do you ever long for a place of tranquility and beauty that you would very much want to escape to when everything gets too overwhelming around you? Or do you have a place of your dream where you can be alone with your thoughts?
There were so many tourist destinations nowadays that you can see in blog posts. There are those elegant restaurants and high buildings with the busy streets and people. There are also places where we go to for their natural beauty like these pristine white beaches or clear waterfalls.
Of course, we cannot rule out the places who are rich in culture and history which you cannot wait to discover and experience yourself. However, don't you ever want to go to a place that will not only give you a beauty but also a story?
If you do, it seems like I have the best place for you. It is a rare place of beauty and peace that is just right for tired souls who want to recuperate and take a break from the chaos of this world.
This place is especially perfect for lovers of the history as it will transport you back to the 19th history with its old houses and museums. The place is not also rich with the story of the past but also with all the stories of people living in it.
Are you curious where can you find it? Then, let us now explore the rare beauty of Raahe.
Raahe is a quaint and warm seaside town in Finland with its old, wooden, and historical attractions. You heard it right. It is a coastal community situated in the Gulf of Bothnia and is even known as the "Town of Sea Winds". A lovely and peaceful town with sea air and a rich history.
It seems the perfect gateway for our longing souls. But wait, it gets more exciting than that. To give you a brief background, the town was founded by Count Per Brahe the Younger, the Swedish statesman and Governor General of Finland, in 1649.
The plan for the said town was patterned after the ideals of the grid plan of the Renaissance. In fact, the oldest remaining picture of the Old Raahe dates from 1569 which shows the town being surrounded by customs fence with about two customs gates.
In 1810 however, the lovely town encountered a huge fire where most of its houses and records were destroyed. From this, a new town plan was drafted for rebuilding the town which consists most of what Raahe is now. Despite this unfortunate events however, the town school and church were saved from the fire.
Now that you know its history, let us get more familiar with the small wooden town Raahe is known for its wooden town center and historical museums. It also has its own small-town events like the Raahe Music Week, the Brahe Classica, Pekka’s Day, and the Jazz on the Beach Festival.
Now, let us get to the most famous spot in Raahe, the Old town of Raahe which serves as one of the oldest towns in Finland. There, you can find the Pekkatori Square where the neo-classicist houses of Fontell, Montin, Frieman, Hedmansson and Kivi-Sovio, and Lang are situated.
Beyond this, the Old town also has the oldest dwelling in Raahe namely the Sovelius House which was built in 1780. Can you think of anything more interesting and delightful than what this town has to offer?
Whether you want sea air, history, festivities, or just a beautiful and peaceful scenery, Raahe can give it all to you. If the abovementioned sites and features of the town still not convinced you. Then maybe this most essential feature of the will.
Raahe is known for its welcoming and cozy people coupled with its calming environment. This is the very place for you to just be yourself and shed all those pretenses and pressures from the outside world.
Here, you can create your own pace and time as you slowly immerse yourself in the rich history and beauty of the town. Indeed, Raahe is rare in its wonder and beauty. The perfect combination of its coast, old wooden houses, museums, and festivities will make you want to get back to it as soon as possible.
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From India to the USA: The Ultimate Tour Packages Await
The world is a vast tapestry of cultures and landscapes, each offering unique experiences and memories waiting to be made. Among the top destinations that Indians dream of exploring is the United States of America, a land of opportunity, diversity, and natural wonders. With the perfect USA tour package from India, your American dream can become a reality. In this blog post, we will take you on a journey to discover the enchanting beauty of the USA and the myriad USA tour package from India that can make your dream trip come true.
Exploring the USA: A Dream Come True with USA tour package from India
The United States, often referred to as "The Land of the Free," is a country known for its iconic cities, awe-inspiring landscapes, and a rich cultural tapestry. The journey from India to the USA is an adventure of a lifetime, and with the right USA tour package from India, you can make the most of your visit. Let's explore some of the best tour packages that can take you on a remarkable American odyssey.
1. New York, New York: The USA Tour Package from India That Has It All
If you're seeking a USA tour package from India that covers everything from the bright lights of Times Square to the tranquility of Central Park, the New York City tour package is your answer. This all-inclusive package allows you to experience the magic of the Big Apple, exploring iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, and the historic neighborhoods of Manhattan. Enjoy a Broadway show, savor the best of international cuisine, and shop on Fifth Avenue - all in one unforgettable trip.
2. California Dreaming: Explore the West Coast with a USA Tour Package from India
For those captivated by the allure of the West Coast, a USA tour package from India that explores California's gems is the perfect choice. This package takes you through the stunning landscapes of California, from the sun-soaked beaches of Los Angeles to the tech-savvy streets of San Francisco. Discover the grandeur of Yosemite National Park, the glamour of Hollywood, and the wine country of Napa Valley. From the Golden Gate Bridge to the Malibu coast, California offers an adventure of a lifetime.
3. The Essence of America: East Coast Tour with a USA Tour Package from India
For history buffs and those fascinated by the birth of a nation, an East Coast USA tour package from India is a journey back in time. Explore the historic cities of Boston, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C., and walk in the footsteps of the Founding Fathers. This tour includes visits to landmarks like the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and the Smithsonian museums. As you explore the charm of New England, you'll be captivated by the beauty of the changing seasons and the rich cultural heritage of this region.
4. Nature's Bounty: The USA National Parks Adventure
The USA is not just about cities; its natural beauty is equally captivating. A USA tour package from India that focuses on the national parks is a dream come true for nature enthusiasts. Visit the Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, Zion, and many other parks, each offering unique landscapes and breathtaking views. Explore the wilderness, go hiking, and witness wildlife in its natural habitat. This package promises an unforgettable outdoor adventure.
5. Southern Charm: Discover the USA's Hidden Gems
For a taste of southern hospitality and charm, consider a Southern USA tour package from India. Immerse yourself in the cultural richness of cities like Charleston, Savannah, and New Orleans. Experience the enchanting beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the pristine beaches of the Gulf Coast. This tour introduces you to the soulful tunes of jazz, the spicy flavors of Cajun cuisine, and the historic plantations of the South.
6. The Great American Road Trip: USA Tour Package from India
Embark on the ultimate American adventure with a road trip across the USA. This unique USA tour package from India provides you with the freedom to explore the country at your own pace. Drive along the famous Route 66, cross the vast landscapes of the Midwest, and experience the diverse cultures of various states. Witness the quirky roadside attractions, indulge in classic diner food, and create your own American story on the open road.
7. The Alaskan Wilderness: A USA Tour Package from India Unlike Any Other
If you crave the unspoiled beauty of nature, an Alaskan USA tour package from India will take you on an Arctic adventure like no other. Cruise through the majestic fjords, witness glaciers calving into the sea, and spot wildlife like bears and whales. Alaska offers a pristine wilderness experience that is both serene and awe-inspiring. With this package, you can explore the Last Frontier in all its glory.
8. The Hawaiian Paradise: An Island Getaway with a USA Tour Package from India
For a tropical escape within the USA, the Hawaiian islands beckon. A Hawaiian USA tour package from India transports you to a world of lush green landscapes, volcanic wonders, and beautiful beaches. Enjoy the vibrant culture of the islands, explore the underwater paradise through snorkeling, and witness the mesmerizing hula dance. Hawaii is a paradise on Earth that deserves a spot on your travel bucket list.
The United States offers a kaleidoscope of experiences, and there's no better way to explore this vast country than with a well-crafted USA tour package from India. Whether you're drawn to the bustling cities of the East Coast, the natural wonders of the national parks, or the cultural richness of the southern states, there's a tour package that caters to your every desire. Make your American dream come true, and start planning your journey to the USA today. With the right package, you'll create memories that will last a lifetime and cherish the diverse beauty of the United States. So, don't wait; your adventure begins now! Book your USA tour package from India and set off on a journey of a lifetime.
Must Read: From India to the USA: Customizable Tour Packages Await You
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Check out the Gulf Coast Black Business of the Day: Tru' Soul Life LLC
Learn More: https://tinyurl.com/2lbexsxx
#blackowned #blackbusiness #buyblack #spend$20 #showyourreceipts #supportblackbusiness #local #gulfcoast #groupeconomics
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1.36pm
DPOne my Love/s???
As I sit down shaking..
Meaning that the only way I'm going to overcome my insecurities is for me to make this trek by myself?
That You/Alll... are waiting... to seee if I do it.
[I made the vows the promise, the commitment. I will be somewhere along the gulf. You/Alll will have that as I drive.]
But also to ... fry...grill...bbq the hell outta my ass??? Roast me good? Kinda feels like that's what's been happening but I just don't know.
It's hard to look in the mirror in slim fitting knit dresses & seee...my tummy. That I have lots I bought with You/Alll in mind... but I'm so embarrassed. Going thru these bins... it's hard knowing what I know I look like... vs ...now.
It's a big part of my nerves. I'm ashamed of myself. So I'm having a hard time getting around it... thru it...over it.
To seee what You/Alll seee.
I really am working on myself.
But this... praying You/Alll love me chubby & slim.
I'll never be petite nor skinny. 5'9" & 40 inch hips precludes that. But... blushing beet red bowing my head. I should only be this size... pregnant. I've had that thought a lot. 😣🙊🙇♀️
nerves about my health.
About the things I don't know. The things I have a wrong perception of?
The things the adversary is using to keep You/Alll & I from being happy.
The unknown.
The long drive. I haven't driven to the gulf coast ever. But the last to the Cape was 2013. As I am familiar with I-95. My only knowledge of I-75 & Tampa was having to act as traffic navigator for wh. So yes, I am nervous. And... my glasses.
The thing that keeps me going... God made me this way. I am a cinnabon!!!
Once I say I'm gonna do something I do it. Damnit.
I am not backing down. Away. Going anywhere but straight to You/Alll & the Florida coast!!!
Just wish I'd had more packing & reflecting time. I think 2 days. But I'm doing it now. Whether I'm up all night or not.
I keep thinking about...
1- I want to be with You/Alll. Badly.
2- I don't want to interrupt family times. Nor work for You DPOne.
3- where should I land.
I know surprises... all that jazz.
Usually I'm ok with surprises. Welll...used to be. The good kind!
I am ~so~ tired of my nerves, fears, insecurities.
I am tired of them!!!
Jesus in Your Name rebuke these nasty things! Insecurities, & fears of the unknown.
I have no control but what You give me Lord. This is what I need to keep in mind do what I must & keep my faith strong in You for the rest!!!
I have walked this journey with You alone Jesus! You have guided me home to my soul's Mate/s & given me the reasons I needed to push myself!
Thank You for loving me Jesus!!!
Thank You/Alll my precious beloved Mate/s for loving me, believing in me, not giving up on me, & really...knowing me.
For knowing that I need challenges... even ones like these. Even when they are excruciatingly painful. I wouldn't have thought anything worse than what I'd already been thru. God makes sure to remind us alll who is really in control.
Bowing my head.
Thank You Alll for loving me.
I know I'm hard to love.🎶😣🙊🙇♀️😔
But would You/Alll want me any other way?
Yes, I am thinking about each of You/Alll. Wanting each of You/Alll. my Love/s, Bear/s, my Alpha/s Warrior/s Mate/s King/s. Praying for alll of them....
And yeah DOne I'm thinking about Your sexy maverick self out there on the beach. I hope You are laughing & having fun with Your daughter.
Praying that it's ok for me.... 😔🙇♀️🙏
I will not interrupt family time.
But I will be near You/Alll.
I'm just scared.
But I am packing. Which for me, there is no turning back. The commitment is made.
To each of You/Alll.
DOne. DPOne. & Alll.
I love You/Alll endlessly.
OMG... please Bear... I'm gonna find You/Alll... You/Alll remember... whimpering moan...
I am ~Your's/s'.~🌺
DOne, DPOne, & Alll. 🔆
🔱💖🐻💓🦌💝⚜♠️🗝🧩♾⚓🙏🙇♀️🦉🐢🐛🦋🌱🌺🌻🌹🌷🌳🧶🧵🔆🌠🌂🔗🎯🧭☔📍☎️😔🕯
2.27pm
Multiple interruptions & trying to gather my thoughts. I think might be a bit gumbled. ~Your's/s' TkP. 🙄😳🙈🙊🤦♀️🙇♀️
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We’re going live tonight on Facebook. Our stream will also be featured on Sofa-King-Fest.com. See you tonight🥰
#sofakingfest#texans#thesuffers#gulf coast soul#quarantine pick me up#livestream#new music#randb#soul#afro#women in music#black women in music#latin music#reggae#jazz#pop#sfrs
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Movies I watched this week - 52
Modern-day ‘Five Easy Pieces’ - Red Rocket, a new, hard story about a smooth-talking lowlife at the end of his rope. A charming LA porn star loser returns to his old Texas City hometown, broke and desperate. Riding his ex-wife’s borrowed bicycle, he encounters a bunch of marginal working class characters, who all live at the bottom of society and in the shadows of the oil refineries on the Texas Gulf Coast. Can this ‘Suitcase pimp’ shake off his past mistakes and become a trusted individual? Of course not. 8/10
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The Future Of Work & Death, a fascinating Kickstarter documentary about the growth of exponential technology, artificial intelligence, automation and futurology. However, some of the talking heads (Will Self, Joanna Cook) philosophize incomprehensibly and should have been cut off. 8/10
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Billy Wilder X 2:
🎦 🎦 🎦 Some Like It Hot, a 1959 sex comedy about cross dressing and gender roles. With George Raft (”Shorty”) as "Spats" Colombo. It’s bittersweet to see Marilyn Monroe (Joan Holloway’s prototype) having so much fun.
“...Story of my life. I always get the fuzzy end of the lollipop... “
🎦 🎦 🎦 Sabrina, a fully-delightful Cinderella fairy tale with Humphrey Bogart (cast against type as a heartless “Businessman” who falls in love) and Audrey Hepburn, dressed in stunning Givenchy dresses, as his chauffeur's daughter. 8/10.
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Ōshima Nagisa‘s Empire of Passion, about a married peasant woman and her lover who murder her husband, and get haunted by his ghost. Contains: Cunnilingus. (Photo Above).
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Soul - my 4th or 5th time seeing this Pixar gem, the first to feature a black hero. And if only for the first 9.5 minutes pre-credit roll, and the emotional heat of the zoned-out jazz scenes. The Blue “Great Beyond” existential after-life story is actually irritating in its adherence to cute traditional theology. 9/10
🍿
Mass alludes to ‘Mass shooting’ or to the Catholic rite of sacrifice (even though the setting here is Episcopalian). In it, the parents of a school mass shooter meet face-to-face with the parents of one of the students killed. And during the first 30 minutes it’s unclear who is who. It’s a stripped-down, four person chamber drama, score-less and slow, a study of pain, anger, guilt and trauma six years after a horrible tragedy. 5+/10
🍿
Cleopatra was the first film I saw on my own in 1963, when I was 10 years old. It played at the local cinema in Kiriat-Yam, and I must have gone there by bike. After seeing her magnificent entry into Rome, I decided to watch it again for the second time. But the epic 4 hour long slog, which inspired the opulent architecture of Las Vegas Caesars Palace, was nothing but an exercise in excess & hubris. A late 1950′s morality play, played with dated and ridiculous sensibilities, a historical epic reduced to a blabbering romance. 2/10
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Unappreciated until after his death, Paul Gauguin lived in destitution and squalor. Gauguin: Voyage to Tahiti is a sad but superficial retelling of Gauguin’s first trip to French Polynesia. Romantic view of the suffering artist which presents his 13 year old muse as a grown-up woman. 3/10
🍿
Get Out Your Handkerchiefs, a French sex Comedy that won the Oscar in 1978. Ménage à trois with young Gérard Depardieu eventually turns into a love story between his unhappy wife and a 13-year-old boy who is the only one able to impregnate her. Light and silly - no, stupid - premise.
(I just realized that by complete coincidence, both of these last two French films have something in common!...)
🍿
Annette, my first (and last!) Leos Carax too-long melodrama. A pointless musical with uninteresting music, about a stand-up comedian (Named “Henry”??) who is not funny, and who kills the ones he loves for no special reasons.
2/10 - One point for the cute baby marionette, and one for (another) singing cunnilingus scene.
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(My complete movie list is here)
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Damon Fowler is Making a Scene
Damon Fowler is Making a Scene #artistinterview #indieblues #roots #makingascene #soul #spotify #indie #blues #rootsrock #americana #newblues #newmusic #originalmusic #bluesrock #podcasts #Mondaymotivation #MusicMondays @Damonfowler79 @deviouspdv
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Making a Scene Presents an Interview with Damon Fowler
Florida’s Gulf Coast has produced a plethora of distinctive musicians, from the blues of Tampa Red to jazz greats Cannonball and Nat Adderley to former Allman Brothers guitarist Dickey Betts to The Outlaws. Tampa’s Damon Fowler, a masterful singer, guitar player, and songwriter has absorbed the best of and furthered the region’s…
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April Scouted Calendar
With spring in full swing, our calendars are filling up with garden-themed events, outdoor festivals, and more. Here, we’ve compiled a few of the activities in the Mobile area that we’re looking forward to in April.
Haley Dermatology April Specials
Fillers $100 off each syringe
Ogai skincare 15% off
Microneedling buy 2 get 1 free
Learn More
$5 Yoga on Tap
April 2nd | 6:00pm | Fairhope Brewing Company
Soul Shine Yoga’s Hoppy Hour meets at the Fairhope Brewing Company. It’s a fun 60 minute Vinyasa Flow class for all levels. Come for the yoga, stay for the outstanding local beer! Bring a mat and a friend. (All levels, unheated) | Learn More
Art & Rug Show
April 4th | 10:00am-2:00pm & 5:00pm-8:00pm | Details Design Studio
Add that layer of color and texture your home needs with Sarah Otts Art and Oushak Chic Rugs. Learn More
La Bella Donna Make Up Event
April 4th | 9:00am-4:00pm | Haley Dermatology
Refresh your look this spring with mineral makeup that is proven to protect and nurture your skin throughout the day. Complimentary makeovers with our La Bella Donna makeup artist, Christa Ramirez. Receive a free gift with $75 purchase! Learn More
Live Music on the Patio
Reocurring every Friday and Saturday | 5:30pm-8:00pm | GrandHotel Golf Resort & Spa’s Bayside Grill
Join Bayside Grill for live music on the patio every Friday & Saturday night from 5:30pm-8:30pm Learn More
Mobtown Mac’n Cheese Fest
April 6th | 12:00pm | Cathedral Square
United Cerebral Palsy is excited to introduce the Mobtown Mac ‘n Cheese Fest to Mobile, Alabama. Join in the endeavor to determine who has the best Mac ‘n Cheese in town! All proceeds benefit United Cerebral Palsy of Mobile. Learn More
The Marshall Tucker Band
April 6th | 7:30pm | Saenger Theatre
In the early fall of 1973, The Marshall Tucker Band was still a young and hungry group out to prove themselves every time they hit the stage. “We were a bunch of young guys who didn’t know any boundaries,” says founding member and longtime lead singer Doug Gray. As it turned out, the collective talents of The Marshall Tucker Band took them very far indeed. Learn More
Big Walk
April 6th | 9:00am | The Bluegill Restaurant
The BIG Walk is Big Brothers Big Sisters of South Alabama's largest annual fundraiser and plays a vital role in carrying out their completely donor-supported mission year round. Your financial support directly effects their ability to professionally create new mentoring relationships in 2019. Let's take bold steps in igniting and defending the potential of the youth in our community. Learn More
Power Vinyasa Master Class
April 6th | 8:00am | Soul Shine Yoga
Join Joy and LaSarah for an intense 90 minute Baptiste style flow. Soul Shine Master's class is suited for intermediate and advanced yogis or anyone who has taken at least 10 vinyasa classes. + bring yoga mat and water + at 265 Young St. + $15 per person, not included in packages or unlimited. Learn More
Prenatel Yoga + 3 Week Series
April 7th | 4:30-5:30pm | Soul Shine Yoga
Prenatal yoga gives a woman energy to enjoy her pregnancy, serenity to build a deeper intimacy with her own body and baby, and the presence of mind to expect the unexpected and be present. The benefits are numerous: release stress, enhance the ability to relax, boost physical strength, increase flexibility, improve balance, ease discomforts of pregnancy, open hips and pelvis, strengthen pelvic floor, build confidence, and expand a woman’s circle of community support. Take this time to foster a deeper connection to your self, to your body, to your baby. Learn More
Harvest Jewels Trunk Show
April 11th | 1:00pm-7:00pm | 207 Woodlands Ave
Shop the entire line of Harvest Jewels and fill your gift list. Easter Baskets, Mothers Day, Graduation gifts or a treat for yourself! Wine and hors d’oeuvres. Learn More
Tasting with Good People Brewing
April 11th | 6:00pm-7:30pm | Bayside Grill, Gand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa
Learn about Good People Brewing and taste a variety of beers presented by Missy Roll. Tasting includes appetizers provided by Bayside Grill. Learn More
Tasting Menu
MuChaCho
IPA
Brown Ale
Coffee Oatmeal Stout
Bay Awakening
April 12th | 11:00am | RSA Battle House
Bay Awakening is an annual luncheon benefiting Mobile Bay Keeper’s work for clean water, clean air, and healthy communities. This year's guest speakers as Julian and Kim MacQueen, owners for Innisfree Hotels, which took flight with their first hotel in Mobile in 1985. Julian is a lover of aviation and he and Kim recently flew their HondaJet from port city to port city during a trip "Around The World in 80 Stays." Their travels broke boundaries and world records while discovering new ways to be hospitable, philanthropic, and exploring the vast waterways that connect our world. Learn More
SouthSounds Music Festival
April 12th-14th | Downtown Mobile
Founded in 2011, SouthSounds Music & Arts Festival is the first festival in the country dedicated to showcasing the best emerging and independent Southern music and art. SouthSounds is held annually on the second weekend in April in various music venues and on outdoor public stages throughout Downtown Mobile, Alabama. Watch over 84 shows in 15 different venues over a 3-day period. Musical artists spanned an array of musical genres (including Americana, indie, country, bluegrass, rock, alternative, metal, soul, funk, jazz, brass band, blues, R&B and hip-hop) and came from throughout the Southeast, with at least 9 different states being represented. SouthSounds Mission Statement: • To be the first and most successful festival in the country dedicated to showcasing new Southern music and art • To help Southern musicians and artists form professional connections to advance their careers • To create an outstanding cultural and community-building event for Southern Alabama and the Gulf Coast Learn More
SouthSounds Arts & Crafts Market
April 13th| 11:00am | Cathedral Square
The Mobile Arts Council is coordinating an arts and crafts market with the SouthSounds Music Festival, surrounding the main music stage in Cathedral Square. This market is free to attend and will feature one-of-a-kind products created by local artisans, as well as live art demonstrations by ceramicists and glassblowers! Vendors are required to bring their own 10x10 tent, table and chair(s). Learn More
Food Truck Friday
April 12th| 4:00pm-9:00pm | Fairhope Brewing Company
Learn More
32nd Baldwin County Strawberry Festival
April 13th | 9:00am | Loxley Municipal Park
Family fun event with strawberry shortcake, entertainment, crafts, carnival, car show and tractor show. Come and support ARC of Baldwin County and Loxley Elementary School. Learn More
Hot Yoga 26/2
April 14th| 6:00pm-7:00pm | Soul Shine Daphne
This sequence is offered in 60 and 90 minute classes. 60-minute class is sure to get you sweating. 90-minute classes offers more instruction, meditation, time with the asanas and stillness between postures. Everyone is welcome to sweat, stretch and heal in this foundational class. There is much evidence both scientific and anecdotal to support the benefits of Hot Yoga when practiced regularly. Problems of alignment, rheumatoid and osteoarthritis, diabetes, heart disease, asthma, insomnia, high and low blood pressure, and so many other medical problems have shown much improvement for so many with regular practice. There is no doubt that practicing this amazing series 3 or more times a week has incredible results that go way beyond the physical! Learn More
Willie Nelson & Family
April 8th |7:00pm | Saenger Theatre
With a six-decade career and 200 plus albums, this iconic Texan is the creative genius behind the historic recordings of Crazy, Red Headed Stranger, and Stardust. Willie Nelson has earned every conceivable award as a musician and amassed reputable credentials as an author, actor, and activist. He continues to thrive as a relevant and progressive musical and cultural force. Learn More
Paint Party
April 16th | 7:00pm-9:00pm | Fairhope Brewing Company
Join Paint Art Live At Fairhope Brewing Co. for a step by step painting party! Start with a completely bare canvas and create a memory AND a masterpiece. All art supplies are included in the price of the class. Preregistration is suggested, as this class has a limited number of seats. Paintings will be completed on a 16x20 canvas and will be ready to take home that evening! Class is two hours and will start at 7pm, so please arrive 15 minutes early to get settled before we start to paint. Learn More
Beverage Academy: Intro to Gin
April 19th | 5:30pm-7:00pm | Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa
Each month, the Beverage Team at the Grand Hotel will be teaching classes at the resorts’ Beverage Academy. The classes are aimed at expanding the participants’ knowledge of beverage basics while also incorporating more advanced techniques. Whether you are a beginner or an expert, the classes are fun, hands-on experiences that will have people raving about your beverage skills. In each Grand Beverage Academy, you will receive a one- hour beverage demonstration, recipes and beverage sampling.
Gin has a long and special history in the spirits world from the highs of “Dutch Courage” to the lows of “Mother’s Ruin”. Gin was the most popular spirit in the U.S. until the 1970’s, come learn how to create a few classic gin cocktails including a French 75 and a Bramble. Learn More
Easter in the Square
April 20th | 10:30am | Bienville Square
Free Family Fun in Bienville Square! 10:30am to 12:30pm (Easter Egg Hunt promptly at noon) Children's Craft Activities Balloon Art Face Painting Kids Karoke Easter Egg Hunt (for children 8 and younger) Prizes for Best Costumed Pet and Best Decorated Stroller or Wagon. Learn More
Culinary Academy: Grilling Bascis
April 20th | 10:00am | Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa
Each month, a Chef at the Grand Hotel will be teaching classes at the Resort’s Culinary Academy. These classes focus on expanding the participants’ knowledge of the culinary basics while also incorporating techniques that are more advanced. Whether you are a beginner or an expert, the Chef’s classes are fun, hands-on experiences that will have people raving about your culinary skills. In each Grand Culinary Academy, you will receive an in depth cooking demonstration, recipes, food sampling and a diploma. Prepare yourself for the summer grilling season. A Grand Chef will instruct you on the techniques of grilling meat, poultry and fish. Grilling can be a way to enhance flavors while also reducing calories. This is a great class for couples. Learn More
Easter Brunch
April 21st | 10:30am-1:30pm | Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa
Celebrate Easter with a delicious buffet at the Grand Hotel. Reservations are required. Learn More
Leon Bridges
April 22nd | 7:00pm | Saenger Theatre
On his sophomore album Good Thing, Leon Bridges’ voice breaks into the debut single “Bad Bad News” in much the same way the artist broke into the public eye in 2015 – forcefully, honestly, and all at once. “They tell me I was born to lose,” he sings with characteristic soulfulness, “but I made a good, good thing out of bad, bad news. Learn More
Jimmy Buffet
April 23rd | 8:00pm | The Wharf
Kenny Chesney
April 27th | 7:00pm | The Wharf
Bear with Me
April 28th | 2:00pm-5:00pm | Fairhope Brewing Company
Bear With Me performing live at Fairhope Brewing Company. Learn More
Taco Takedown
April 28th |12:00pm | Cathedral Square
The Mobile Arts Council (MAC) is planning Mobile’s first-ever Taco Takedown –a day filled with tacos, tequila, talent and tons of fun! For the love of tacos and a good time, this new event will highlight local food vendors for their unique take on the versatile taco. The event will take place Sunday, April 28 from noon until 3:30 P.M. in Cathedral Square in downtown Mobile. Entertainment and live music will be provided. Learn More
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New York City in the summer? Don’t mind if we do! See y’all at the legendary Blue Note New York on July 11th and 12th. We’ll be doing an early show and late show, so y’all got options. This will be one of our few east coast shows this year as we shift our focus to working on the next album, so let the crew know we’re coming with lots of new music!
More info at http://www.TheSuffers.com!
#new york city#nyc#bluenote#blue note#blue note jazz#the suffers#blue note jazz vlub#jazz club#nycjazzcl;ub#gulf#coast#soul#new soul#nu soul#rnb#new jazz#funk#thesufferstour#thesuffers#thesufferstourr2023#theesuffers#thee#thesufferstour2023#sfrs#suffers#soul music#texas soul#texas rnb#houston soul#houston
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New Post has been published on https://toldnews.com/travel/discover-greeces-amalfi-coast/
Discover Greece's Amalfi coast
(CNN) — From colorful Parga and the stunning beaches of Sivota to the low-key port of Preveza, the Epirotic coast is dazzling.
Characterized as the Greek Amalfi Coast, though with its own allure, this endless coastline dotted with seaside villages, dreamy beaches, mountain villages, archaeological sites and amazing landscapes is still widely undiscovered.
It’s a real gem in Greece, with a charm of its own.
Here are the best places to visit when you travel here:
Parga
Parga is a colorful old town hugging the mainland but with an island feel.
Giota Siomou Besta
This quaint seaside town, with the colorful houses built like an amphitheater on a hill leading up to a Venetian castle, serves as the perfect base to explore the area.
Although on the mainland, the atmosphere feels like an island, with its compact center and lovely corners crowned by bougainvillea flowers and the surrounding hills full of olive groves.
Buzzing with life, Parga offers mesmerizing views of the Ionian Sea. Kryoneri beach is right in front of the town, while numerous restaurants, cafes and bars line the promenade and continue on the road leading up to the castle.
Panagia (Virgin Mary), the islet facing Parga with its whitewashed chapel, is one of Greece’s most photographed locations and is featured in tourism campaign posters by the Greek National Tourism Organization (EOT), and book covers (Paul Theroux’s “Pillars of Hercules”), as well as a dreamy setting for weddings.
“The islet is also part of a local, urban legend,” says Sergio Tsitakis, co-owner and director of Villa Rossa Boutique Beach Resort, the historic red mansion with a prime location right on Kryoneri beach. (Villa Rossa, Agiou Athanasiou 4, 48060 Parga, Greece; +30 2684031237)
Word has it that shipping tycoon Aristotle Onassis, who bought the Ionian islet of Skorpios in 1968, had first expressed interest in buying this one. Today, during summer you can hop on a day trip from Parga and swim near the legendary island of Skorpios and others.
Villa Rossa offers luxury lodging at the end of Kryoneri beach.
Villa Rossa
In the morning, you can grab a crunchy oven-baked pargino koulouri, a traditional cinnamon-flavored bread ring, from the Green Bakery and stroll along Parga’s promenade and quaint alleys. (Green Bakery, 40 Sp Livada St., Parga; +30 26840 31400).
For sunset, you can head towards the Venetian castle on top of the hill. From up here, as you recharge over a drink at its café and take in the spectacular views, you’ll soon forget about the steep climb.
Back in town, the olive oil factory Paragaea is worth a visit. Visitors can learn how olive oil production is linked with the local culture and participate in an olive oil tasting. (Paragaea, K. Tzavella 19, Parga 480 60, Greece; +30 2684 032889)
Near the castle, the Pargas Distillery Amicos Cocktail Bar serves its own ouzo, liqueurs and cocktails with mezze platters in a pleasant setting. (Pargas Distillery, Tourkopazaro, Parga 48060; +30 694 700 9151)
August 15 marks a double celebration for Parga — not only is this the day of a big Greek religious celebration marking the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, it’s also when locals celebrate their return to their homeland from Corfu in 1913. Almost a century earlier, the townspeople had fled after Parga was sold by the British to Ali Pasha, the Turkish ruler of Ioannina.
There are plentiful delights hugging the hills around Parga harbor.
Giota Siomou Besta
On this day fishing boats decorated with lights sail towards the port, fireworks splash the sky and a massive street party with bands goes on until the early hours.
Further afield visitors can sample a day excursion to the islands of Antipaxos and Paxos, with its scenic port of Gaios.
On Antipaxos, the out-of-this-world water of Voutoumi beach is one of the highlights.
Archaeological sites such as the Nekromanteion temple (the Oracle of the Dead), dedicated to the ancient Greek gods Persephone and Hades, are another.
Activities in nature abound as well. Into The Wild offers tempting daily excursions for mountain biking, hiking, stand-up paddle boarding, and sea and river kayaking. Surfing is also gaining popularity here.
Best beaches:
The water is iridescent at Voutoumi beach on the island of Antipaxos.
Rania Margari
Close to Parga, the popular beach of Valtos, the lovely gulf of Lichnos and the tiny cove of Sarakiniko are all great options.
Where to eat:
Villa Rossa’s farm-to-table restaurant serves a seasonal menu based on locally sourced, top-quality ingredients featuring fish and seafood such as shrimps from Preveza or beef fillet with fresh Greek truffle from the Pindus mountains.
The chef, Theo Karathanassis, is known as the “saffron chef” because he uses saffron in many of his signature dishes such as his seafood risotto.
Aegis Dine & Drink, Paragaea’s restaurant, serves modern Greek and Mediterranean cuisine at a great location overlooking the sea. (Aegis Dine & Drink, Parga 48060, Greece; +30 693 724 1479)
Where to stay:
Villa Rossa offers fine dining overlooking the beautiful Parga bay.
Villa Rossa
Villa Rossa Boutique Beach Resort is a historic mansion with a great location on Parga’s main beach. (Villa Rossa Boutique Beach Resort, Agiou Athanasiou 4, 48060 Parga; +30 26840 31237)
Sivota
Sivota is a charming fishing village with access to plentiful beaches and hidden bays.
Rania Margari
About 30 kilometers northwest of Parga, Sivota is a small fishing village with a pleasant promenade, tiny center and grandiose setting.
Snuggled in green, with some of the most stunning beaches of the area and islets which create little fjords, this is the perfect place to hop on a boat and explore dreamy places such as Pisina beach or to experience a sunset cruise.
To feel the soul of this place it’s good to wake up early and watch the fishermen untangle the catch from their fishing nets and maybe buy lunch from them.
On the way from Parga to Sivota, a climb up to the village of Perdika rewards with unhindered views of the area. There are also many taverns offering simple Greek dishes.
Best beaches:
Zavia is one of the best beaches in the Sivota region.
Rania Margari
One of the most exotic beaches is Bella Vraka, reached by walking through shallow water — unusual and fun.
Megali Ammos has taverns right by the beach, while a glamorous beach bar offering super comfortable sunbeds dominates Mikri Ammos. Agia Paraskevi has a tiny island, which can be reached by swimming.
Karavostasi is a long and broad beach with superb blue waters and a traditional family tavern, Skala Karavostasi, serving cold beer, simple food and a stunning seaside view on the far end of the beach.
Where to eat:
Filakas Hotel restaurant (Sivota 46100 Greece; +30 26650 93345) for fish served at the seaside tables with great sunset views.
Melenio (Sívota, +30 2665 093662) is the place to go for ice cream, friendly service and cute outdoor seating.
Taverna “Oasis” in Agia village serves up traditional, hearty Greek food and great mountain views.
Where to stay:
Hotel Oriana (Sivota Thesprotia, Greece 46100; +30 26650 93520) is centrally located and also has recently renovated apartments with small kitchenettes.
Preveza
Preveza town offers a wealth of atmospheric dining options.
Ideal for a day trip, Preveza has a peaceful vibe, a laid-back seafront promenade and cute little corners in its city center to discover while walking. Here, the modern archaeological museum of Nikopolis and the archaeological site of ancient Nikopolis are major highlights.
During summer, Preveza Jazz Festival and the more traditional Sardines Festival (in August) draw the crowds.
Best beaches:
In the Preveza area, the deep-watered Monolithi and Kanali both stretch for miles offering numerous beach bars along the coast. The area is vast so if you prefer to hear only the sound of the waves and the feet tapping on the sand, it is possible.
Alonaki, with its grandiose rocky setting, is an experience of its own, while Ormos tou Odyssea cove has golden, fine sand and shallow waters.
Ormos tou Odyssea is a beach highlight near Preveza.
Rania Margari
Where to eat:
Downtown — Amvrosios for fresh fish and Psatha for traditional Greek recipes.
Kanali beach — Miriounis restaurant for tasty, simple food coupled with impressive sea views and sunsets or Sesa Boutique hotel’s restaurant for gourmet dining.
Agios Thomas — “To Ntaliani” and “Jimmy’s” for fresh fish.
Where to stay:
The Captain’s House (4-6 Karyotaki str. 481 00 Preveza Epirus, Greece; +30 2682023915) is a boutique hotel-guesthouse in a traditional mansion.
Daluz Boutique Hotel (Doridos 2, Preveza 481 00, Greece; +30 2682089220) are family-friendly apartments in the Psathaki area.
Sesa (Kanali Beach, Preveza 481 00, Greece; +30 26820 527070) is a luxury boutique hotel at Kanali beach.
Sailing
While Greek island hopping might be linked with the Cyclades islands, the Ionian Sea, with its calmer weather conditions and numerous sheltered harbors, is better for inexperienced sailors.
EY Sailing is one of the new breed of Greek sailing holiday companies offering thematic trips in the area which include visiting archaeological sites such as the Nekromanteion temple, kayaking in the River Aheron, tasting the local gastronomy in Preveza, exploring the idyllic islets of Sivota and also the nearby islands of Paxoi, Antipaxoi and Corfu, hiking, freediving and sailing.
Yachts can be chartered on a bareboat or skippered basis from Corfu, Lefkada and Preveza, all of which offer good marina facilities. Incrediblue, considered an Airbnb for boats, has many options.
Rania Margari is a travel, food and lifestyle freelance writer and journalist based in Lausanne, Switzerland. Follow her adventures at www.mygreektravellingspoon.com
#latest travel news#Parga#Preveza#Sivota: Explore Greece&x27;s stunning coast in Epirus - CNN#travel#travel deals#travel magazine#travel map#travel money#travel news
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Hit List: Shelley's Top 3 Picks in East Austin
Happy New Year to the Trading Places Village!
To start off 2019 with my first post of the year, I thought I would introduce you all to my neighborhood (that is, when I'm not off vagabonding somewhere else in the world!). My hometown is Austin, Texas — and I live in the weird, quirky, artistic neighborhood of East Austin, just east of downtown.
I love my neighborhood, which has really changed and grown a lot in the last 5 years. Sometimes Austin experiences too much and too rapid growth, and it's hard to keep up with it all. It's also sad sometimes seeing the old places close or get forced out. But despite all the changes, there are many places — both long-time, established traditions and exciting new things that have come in — that I love in my neighborhood.
Here, then, I share my "Top 3" picks across various categories of places to eat, drink and be merry in East Austin:
TOP 3 TACOS:
Tamale House East, 1707 E. 6th
One of my all-time faves. I lived down the street from the original location further north; once I moved to the east side, they opened this east side location too, right down the street! Coincidence? I think not! Owned and run by the Valera family since 1958, they make mouth-watering tamales along with a great selection of breakfast and all-day tacos, mole, enchiladas plates and more. A fantastic, fun atmosphere with cool décor inside, and a chill little garden patio as well. They have live salsa from The Brew every weekend and lots of other events, including music and Frida Fridays. Check it out, you can’t go wrong! Full bar, open breakfast through dinner.
Joe’s Bakery, 2305 E. 7th
Great family-owned place that’s been there since 1962. INCREDIBLE tortillas and migas, cool old-school atmosphere, and a great front counter Mexican bakery selection. Their migas are the best in town, according to me and my friends Mando Rayo and Jarod Reese who wrote the book on Tacos of Texas (literally!) Only open for breakfast and lunch.
Taco Flats, 2500 E. 6th
This vintage Airstream food truck is right across the street from my condo complex. It’s behind La Holly bar (owned by the same folks), which makes for a fun place to combine for drinks with your tacos. They have a pretty interesting menu of unusual and gourmet tacos. Great outdoor space as well.
TOP 3 BREAKFAST SPOTS:
Counter Café, 1914 E. 6th
This place is honestly the BOMB for breakfast. Personally I love their benedicts, but the Steak & Eggs and Quail & Eggs get pretty high reviews from customers. Their biscuits are also pretty damn good and very authentic Southern. You can’t go too wrong with lunch here either. Only open for breakfast and lunch (their burgers are great, and could crossover into that category below).
Photo courtesy of Launderette
Launderette, 2115 Holly St.
While Launderette doesn't serve breakfast every day — only weekend brunch — that brunch definitely rates as one of my top picks anywhere in Austin. If I didn’t have Launderette in this section, I would definitely put it in the “upscale restaurant” section below, so consider this a dual entry. Comfort food in a cool setting, to-die-for cocktails, and a pretty good happy hour. Don’t miss it when in Austin.
Juan in a Million, 2300 E. Cesar Chavez
Another long-time, family-owned East side fave. The patriarch of the family, Juan himself, is usually there shaking customers’ hands and asking how things are. This is super hole-in-the-wall, but don’t let that put you off. There are usually lines to get in for weekend breakfast (they also serve lunch every day). Huge plates; in fact, they are well known and were featured on the Travel Channel for their “Don Juan” — if you can eat the whole thing, your picture goes up on the wall. I have a few friends whose mugs grace those walls.
TOP 3 BURGERS:
Hi-Hat Public House, 2121 E. 6th
This is one of my favorite casual, comfortable neighborhood spots. They always remember me there, and have a definite cast of regulars. It’s also one of the best burgers on the east side, and on Thursdays you can get a burger and a pint for $14. If you don’t come for the burger, you can check out Taco Tuesday (two tacos and a pint for $12), Wine Wednesday (half-price bottles), or their weekend brunch with live jazz. They also have live music many other nights of the week.
Justine’s Brasserie, 4710 E. 5th
This is one of my favorite places on the East Side, for way more than the burger. It would definitely go on my list for top upscale restaurants if it didn’t always get raves enough about its Royale with Cheese (named from Pulp Fiction) to make this category. Besides that fine burger, they have the most amazing French Country Bistro comfort food, a beautiful outdoor patio and lawn, and a full roster of parties and other events. They always throw the most happening soirees during any big Austin festival like SXSW.
Photo courtesy of Justine's Brasserie
Arlo’s, 1700 E. 6th
This food truck is where you want to go if you’re vegetarian/vegan and craving a totally satisfying, juicy, cheesy, drip down your chin burger. And non-vegetarians will love it just as much, I promise! Their Bac’N Cheez Burger is tha bomb; I don’t know how they do it, but it hits the exact right spot for any burger, vegan or not! Trust me on this. A side of sweet potato fries makes it perfection. The truck is parked at The Grackle bar, which is a mighty fine place to grab a drink and hang.
TOP 3 BARBECUE JOINTS:
Franklin, 900 E 11th
This is possibly the most famous name in Texas barbecue, visited by many a Travel Channel and Food Network show and written up in the New York Times. Aaron Franklin, truly is a master, and even has his own TV show. Jimmy Kimmel, Anthony Bourdain and President Obama have eaten here. This place is as old-school as it gets; hasn’t changed much in a decade. It really does live up to the hype, and the line can be hours long. It opens at 11 am every day (though people queue up long before that), and stays open til they sell out.
La Barbecue, 2027 E. Cesar Chavez
Located inside the Quickie Pickie (a great small market to shop as well), this gets my vote for fave Austin BBQ. It’s owned by spouses LeAnn Mueller (of the famed Mueller BBQ family) and Alison Clem, and there’s usually a line out the door here as well. Personally I love their pulled pork, and they also do these amazing sandwiches with their homemade jalapeno sausage topped with barbecue. You might go into a food coma afterward.
Kerlin BBQ, 1700 E. Cesar Chavez
This food truck gets consistently good reviews for its barbecue and sides (which are way above the ordinary), even though it’s relatively new. Their sampler platter is a favorite, and they also sell kolaches which are fantastic. It shares space with Vera Cruz tacos, which is a phenomenal place as well.
TOP 3 ASIAN FOOD SPOTS:
Dee Dee, 2500 E. 6th
I can’t tell you how excited I was when this WONDERFUL Northern Thai Street Food truck moved from Cesar Chavez (already close) to right across the street from my complex! This is not only the best Thai food on the east side, it’s also hands-down one of the top 2 or 3 Thai food spots in all of Austin (If you want to know my other go-to restaurants, check out Sway and Titaya’s). This food truck is run by husband and wife team Justin & Lakana (she is from Northern Thailand). The name Dee Dee means “good good” in Thai — and yes, it is that good that you have to say so twice. Seriously, if you like Thai food, stop in here. They only have a few things on the menu, but wow, do they do those 3 things spot on. Their food can be pretty spicy (it’s authentic, after all!) so don’t be afraid to ask them to dial it down a notch or two if you want.
Ramen Tatsu-ya, 1600 E. 6th
Since the first of these restaurants opened in North Austin, it was immensely popular, always with looooong lines out the door and waits of up to an hour or two. So you can imagine how freaking excited East Austin was when we found out that it was coming into the defunct Qui restaurant space, left from disgraced celebrity Top Chef Paul Qui. It just opened in summer 2018, and if you like ramen, DO NOT MISS IT! They have a pretty fun story, too — the owners and co-chefs, Tatsu Aikawa and Takuya Matsumoto, were hip-hop DJs when they met. Their mission is to bring Japanese soul food to Austin.
Photo courtesy of Ramen Tatsu-ya
Kemuri Tatsu-ya, 2713 E. 2nd
Along with Thai food, ramen is by far my favorite Asian food. Fortunately, there are two of the best ramen spots in town within walking distance of my loft (see above). Kemuri is really fun and unique — it serves a kinda crazy combination of Texas and Japanese food, like brisket ramen. They also have things like authentic Karaage chicken, and a great menu of Chinmi “exotic and rareties” that is rated for its weird factor by rating each one from Not Funky (Kenny G) to You Nasty (James Brown). The décor is also a fantastically oddball mix of old Japanese signs and other relics with Texas kitsch (it used to be a barbecue place, and lots of those items remain). Great back garden/patio that usually projects films on a wall. Just a weird, fun place with really incredible food and cocktails.
TOP 3 UPSCALE RESTAURANTS:
Juniper, 2400 E. Cesar Chavez
This has been open a couple of years now, in a newly restored mixed-use center that’s home to Blue Owl Brewing, SpraTX graffiti/art shop, and a host of art and design studios. It’s refined Italian, with a seasonal menu that varies according to the ingredients available from the local farms and purveyors that they source from. Worth a little splurge (higher priced, but not crazy expensive).
Monger’s, 2401 E. Cesar Chavez
This is one of my go-to places for either a nice dinner or when I’m craving seafood. One partner runs the kitchen while the other runs the small seafood market where you can buy amazingly fresh fish, shrimp and other items to cook, straight from the Gulf Coast. They have a fantastic raw bar, and lots of great shareable plates. If you love seafood, I highly recommend this place.
Photo courtesy of Monger's
Suerte, 1800 E 6th
Opened in 2018, this is a fancy Mexican restaurant that deserves recognition. The ambience and service are great in my experience, and the food is above average in a city chock-full of Tex-Mex food. It’s a great place to stop for Lucky Hour (as they call their happy hour) from 5-6 every day.
TOP 3 CRAFT BREWPUBS:
Hops & Grain, 507 Calles
Photo courtesy of Hops & Grain
This was the first micro-brewery in East Austin, and it’s my favorite. Not only do they have great beers, a good inside area and outside patio, and food truck; they are also very community oriented, with lots of events from trivia nights and live music to beer and yoga days. Dog friendly, tours and tastings, and all around great people! Tours of the brewery are given on Friday at 5pm and Saturday at 2pm and 4pm. Tours are FREE, & last about 45 minutes.
Lazarus Brewing, 1902 E. 6th
This is one of the newest brewery additions to the thriving East Austin craft beer scene, and extremely popular. It’s housed in a beautiful building, with a super cozy atmosphere and very dog-friendly. They serve not only their beers but also housemade root beer and kombucha, and they serve tacos if you’re hungry.
Blue Owl Brewing, 2400 E. Cesar Chavez
This brewery stands out because they do sour mash brewing. I haven’t quite acquired the taste for that, so honestly I don’t frequent this place. But when I feel like something different, it’s great, and it is a pretty wonderful little spot.
Honorable Mention: Zilker Brewing, 1701 E. 6th
TOP 3 WATERING HOLES:
La Holly, 2500 E. 6th
This spot has a groovy neighborhood vibe, and the owner Simon Madera is a super friendly guy who’s often behind the bar. They specialize in spirits from Mexico: tequila, mezcal and the harder-to-find sotol, raicilla and bacanora popular south of the border. Nice beer garden patio out back, with the Taco Flats food truck.
Photo courtesy of La Holly
Whisler’s, 1816 E. 6th
This has hands-down been my very favorite cocktail bar spot in East Austin since the day it opened. And yes, I was there the day it opened (in fact, actually before hand, for their soft pre-opening). The hand-crafted cocktails, and the bar/service staff, are all way above par. But the building and setting itself is also way cool, built completely with all kinds of salvaged and reused materials. It’s pretty fun to just wander around and check it all out. Upstairs you’ll find Mezcalería Tobalá, a mezcal bar which is really serious about the spirit! The very excellent Thai Kun food truck is also parked here (Whisler’s doesn’t serve food).
Kitty Cohen’s, 2211 Webberville Rd.
I like this place so much I had my birthday party there. It’s a really fun 1960s Palm Springs, Dean Martin/Frank Sinatra kind of vibe. Its big draw is the great yard/patio, with a shallow pool that guests can sit along and dip their feet into — refreshing! Be sure to check out the bathrooms, even if you don’t have to go.
TOP 3 LIVE MUSIC/DANCE SPOTS:
White Horse, 500 Comal St.
This is absolutely a must-go spot, not just on the East Side but for anyone visiting Austin. It’s a true Texas honkytonk — but total Austin style. Don’t think twangy country-western music; the nightly live music here is all about swing, rockabilly and blues. It’s a super hip yet casual place, with good strong drinks that are cheap by Austin standards. There are always a lot of great dancers, and they do lesson nights as well. A guaranteed fun night out!
Photo courtesy of The White Horse
Ah Sing Den, 1100 E. 6th
I’ve loved this place since it was East Side Showroom, which was started by a mother and daughter team. After years of that super cool steampunk saloon, the team decided to give the place a new look, vibe and name. Ah Sing Den is named after the Victorian London opium den that was frequented by the likes of Charles Dickens and Arthur Conan Doyle. It’s super swank, the décor is to die for, and they make some of the best cocktails in town. A full menu of Asian-inspired dishes won’t leave you hungry, and the calendar of live music and other events will entertain.
Esquina Tango, 209 Pedernales St.
This is a lively tango and salsa place, owned by an Argentine husband and wife team. They offer a host of dance and Spanish language classes, with live music, dance parties and festivals almost every weekend. Check out their calendar before heading over to see what’s on.
TOP 3 VEGAN EATERIES:
Counter Culture, 2337 E. Cesar Chavez
Photo courtesy of Counter Culture
Super innovative vegan fare, this place is the go-to fave not just in East Austin, but the city as a whole, for many veg-heads. It’s housed in a hard-to-miss bright blue building, and also serves beer and wine. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. I’ve seen local celebs here (Giancarlo Esposito and Matthew McConaughey), as well as kooky pets on the animal friendly patio, including a parrot perched on a customer’s shoulder and an iguana on a leash.
The Vegan Nom, 2324 E. Cesar Chavez
The home of the “Rock’n vegan tacos,” if you are veg and craving a taco, hit this food truck up. Right across the street from Counter Culture, at the super-cool Soma Vida complex (you might want to stop in there for yoga or a massage, or daily co-working passes if you need that).
Mr. Natural, 1901 E. Cesar Chavez
This place has been around forever; it is THE long-time, go-to, natural and vegan food place in Austin, with several locations including east. They’ve been around since 1988. They offer a “choose your own” deli area (focus on healthy Tex-Mex, but not limited to that), bakery, and market. They also have a lot of community events such as yoga and meditation, On the first Sunday of every month they feature an All Vegan Brunch Buffet.
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#Asianfood#Austin#barbeque#bars#breakfast#brewpubs#brunch#burgers#cocktails#dancing#dining#drinks#EastAustin#eating#food#hitlist#livemusic#restaurants#tacos#Texas#vegan
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USA: Soul-jazz flutist Ragan Whiteside's hit streak continues with "Jam It," her fourth consecutive Billboard Top 10 single
That’s her “Jam!”
Soul-jazz flutist Ragan Whiteside’s hit streak continues with “Jam It,” her fourth consecutive Billboard Top 10 single.
ATLANTA (5 August 2019): The sizzling summer heat. A backyard barbecue filled with food, family and friends. A tune comes on the radio that instantly sets bodies in motion. As people start moving and grooving, someone exclaims, “That’s my jam!” This scene is what soul-jazz flutist Ragan Whiteside envisioned when creating her latest single, “Jam It.” The hot track became her fourth consecutive Billboard Top 10 single when it hit the ninth spot on the chart for the week of August 3. At No. 9 with a bullet, it’s still rising like the mercury.
Whiteside wrote “Jam It” with seminal urban-jazz artist Bob Baldwin, who produced the joint with Dennis Johnson (Marion Meadows, Freddie Jackson, Phil Perry, Melba Moore). The cut previews Whiteside’s forthcoming fifth album, “Five Up Top,” slated to drop this fall from Randis Music, an indie label run by Whiteside and Johnson.
“Your favorite party song comes on the radio and someone claims it as their jam. I wanted ‘Jam It’ to give you that feeling and get people dancing - whether you're at a backyard barbecue or just driving to work. Wherever you're listening, you should turn up your speakers and JAM IT!” said the Atlanta-based Whiteside.
Whiteside’s hit streak began when her 2017 “Treblemaker” album sent all three singles into the Billboard Top 10. Another collaboration with Baldwin, “Early Arrival” featuring saxophonist Kim Waters, got things started when it checked in at No. 7. She scored her first Billboard No. 1 hit with “Corey’s Bop,” a clubby trek she wrote with Johnson and Baldwin. Her own boisterous party starter, “See You at the Get Down” celebrated at No. 5.
Whiteside’s vibrant and velvety flute leaping amidst jazzy rhythms and funky beats is ushering her instrument back into the centerstage spotlight. She takes pride in being a completely independent artist who is flourishing while releasing her own recordings. A classically trained flautist and vocalist who grew up in Mount Vernon, New York, Whiteside took up the flute after first learning piano, violin and drums as a child. While studying classical music, she discovered her passion for songwriting and arranging. When Whiteside first became a jazz, funk and R&B mixologist, she won the Capital Jazz New Artist competition. She began collaborating with Baldwin and Johnson for her debut disc, “Class Axe” (2007), pouring splashes of classical into intoxicating jazz, funk and R&B cocktails. Whiteside incorporated fusion into the branded brew on subsequent sets: 2012’s “Evolve,” 2014’s “Quantum Drive” and “Treblemaker.” Among her honors, Whiteside was named Flutist of the Year at the Black Women in Jazz & Fine Arts Awards.
Either on her recordings or as a guest artist, Whiteside has flanked urban/contemporary jazz cohorts Earl Klugh, Kirk Whalum, Rick Braun, Marion Meadows, Walter Beasley, Patrice Rushen, Chieli Minucci, Frank McComb, Eric Darius, Baldwin and Waters. Her spirited stage performances have made her a popular draw at festivals and cruises such as the Seabreeze Jazz Festival, Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival and the Capital Jazz SuperCruise. Catch Whiteside in the coming weeks at the Derby City Jazz Festival in Louisville, KY on August 10; Fourth Avenue Jazz Festival in Birmingham, AL on August 24; and at the Gulf Coast Jazz Summer Fest in Pensacola, FL on September 1. For more information, please visit http://www.raganwhiteside.com.
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Check out the Gulf Coast Black Business of the Day: Tru' Soul Life LLC
Learn More: https://tinyurl.com/2mwnzwc3
#blackowned #blackbusiness #buyblack #spend$20 #showyourreceipts #supportblackbusiness #local #gulfcoast #groupeconomics
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dunbar - ch 9 “empowered voices in the public eye” 186 - 206
using text delivery to speak an important social message
blues and gospel artists spoke to their audiences - about justice and building community
tracing african traditions into america
today - african american can mean - people of African descent whose families were taken into slavery during the trans-Atlantic slave trade or those who have immigrated during the 20th and 21st centuries
the stories in this chapter are connected to people whose ancestors were taken as slaves between the 16th and 19th centuries - an est 9-12 million people were captured, bought and sold. they had no material goods and carried traditions + rituals internally
call and response - one musician (or more) performs a musical phrase or statement - (the call) - another soloist or group answers with a phrase or statement (the response)
griot- west african musician-historian -one-stringed instruments and mouth bows in West African areas were possibly reborn as one-string diddley bows + harmonicas in the rural south - griot is a predecessor of blues
blues scale - in western terms, a major scale with a flatted third, fifth and seventh tones - pentatonic/modal melodic systems in Mauritania, Morocco, Algeria, Ghana, Mali, Nigeria - sound like the blues - pitch flexibility, not an exact scalar system
pentatonic - a five tone melodic system
modal- music that is based on modes (sequences of whole and half steps) other than a major or minor
melisma- a succession of multiple pitches sung on a single syllable
syncretism- the blending and merging of two or more distinct cultures into a distinctive new culture - blending of African and Christian worship styles - tribal worship + spirit possession blended with Christian traditions in the south.
spirituals in the rural south
field cry/field holler - improvised monophonic song with flexible pitch and rhythm, sung by workers in the field. (blues and gospel is linked to 19th century spiritual - umbrella term for black religious music in the time of slavery)
blues-related scalar systems, moaning, flexible melodies - predecessors (believed to be) or blues and gospel style
beyond the music
sojourner truth (1797) and harriet tubman (1829) used vocal music - truth used hymns and songs to convey messages about freedom - tune of auld lang syne “i am pleading for the mothers/who gaze in wild despair/upon the hated auction block/and see their children there”
“go down, moses” was used as instruction in the underground railroad
textual references carried double meaning - the “chariot” of “swing low, sweet chariot” - enslaved people to heaven, but also freedom on earth to a new land
tubman used “wade in the water” for people to step in the water to avoid dog tracking / and perseverance.
women’s song has a long history of walking through trouble, not around it, on the path to ultimate freedom (bernice johnson reagon)
impact of the great migration
end of slavery wasn’t true freedom for african-americans - families still didn’t have money, couldn’t reconnect - it meant sharecropping situations
poverty, discrimination, lynchings, boll weevil infestations - prompted black people to move out of the rural south. many moved to north cities - known as the great migration.
when the mississippi river flooded in 1927, the delta farming area was further decimated, and there was another migration
about 1.5 million black people moved from the rural south to urban centers of the north by 1930
crowded conditions, segregated housing, need for employment, and discrimination up north
community was built in safe spaces - churches and nightclubs
gospel church: the musical cradle
gospel - black religious music that emerged in urban centers during the early decades of the twentieth century - covers a number of subgenres: quartet singing, arranged choral singing and solo work - genre began in the 1910s
2 branches of black church existed- conservative, reflective worship - favored in mainline traditions like Methodism, and a more exuberant style in the sanctified church - like Pentecostal, Baptist churchs, allowed worshipers to move with the spirit.
sanctified church - used elements of traditional african musical ritual - dancing, moaning, body percussion, invoking spirit possession with rhythm
church was a place of community for women, to escape and combat prejudice (spiritual and emotional survival) - much more women than men
church community supported women musicians - musical training, leadership, moral support, monetary support - women who had their start in the black church were - toni braxton, tina turner, aretha franklin, big mama thornton
analyzing the gospel sound
“surely god is able” - marion williams - considered by many to be the most accomplished gospel singer of the twentieth century
vamp - repeating musical accompaniment common in jazz, gospel, soul, musical theatre - usually outlines a single harmony or harmonic progression over which a soloist improvises
expanding the female pulpit: moving gospel to the world’s stage
women - gospel was a ministry parallel to male preaching
arizona dranes - blind pianist of the sanctified church, played with a barrelhouse-style piano blues - combined rag-inspired melodies with boogie woogie bass lines (boogie woogie - piano style emerged in the 1930s, featured a syncopated melody against a driving, repeated bass figure)
many of the record companies were controlled by white entrepreneurs - race record market - targeted sales to the african-american community
black owned companies - black swan records, arose during that era
the battle of the image
black community continued to purchase records into 1930s- but the radio was about to come into the picture
women who led the development of gospel within the church, also led the way to commercialization of the genre into the nationwide community
sister rosetta tharpe - she moved into the commercial world, but began to be questioned about her sincerity. she started her career in the church. she played guitar at six, and traveled with her moth around the country. she moved to the nightclub + theatre scene by 1938 so she could reach more people and by 1939 she had a huge national audience
she performed at “the cotton club” which catered to a white upper-class audience (and this was featured in life magazine). they featured people like duke ellington, bessie smith, louis armstrong. her stage presence began to change from conservative dress to stylish gowns
the gospel audience grows
the doors into the secular world were open for gospel stars
almost all the gospel greats of the era were women - clara ward - and the ward singers - marion williams and mahalia jackson
gospel singer stage presence was not provocative, but it was flashy - glittery dresses, dangly earrings, high piled wigs. some chose church robes, but with rhinestones and jewels
some felt there was too much sexuality, also the people who produced the music were white and they were taking advantage of the success, while dictating presentation style and sometimes even the spiritual message
mahalia jackson - walked the sacred-secular line, and was regarded as a devout carrier of the gospel message. she delivered the word with a blues inspired sound.
the blues on stage: another public forum for women
the night club scene of the 1920s featured blues singers
the blues performer projected an image of confidence and control, rather than ‘contented servant’ or promiscuous temptress
blues lyrics spoke about history, culture, race, class, and sex
like the women of west african lament traidition - they used music to deliver a message
rural blues/ classic blues - blues that originated in the south, accompanied with guitar, and classic that emerged in urban centers- accompanied by piano and drums
the blues performer spoke to middle-class audiences about challenges of every day life - lost love, broken families, separation, poor housing, working all day, keeping the family functional, sexuality - cheating men, exploration of new sexual freedom in first generation beyond slavery (okay).
leaders of the classic blues style
many performers have been ignored because there’s less “value” (it’s misogyny) on the classic blues tradition
gertrude “ma” rainey- was a link between rural and classic blues styles- rainey chronicled the encournter with the blues
the recording industry was largely closed to african-americans prior to the 1920s until mamie smith was discovered. her 1920 recording of ‘crazy blues’ on okeh records is considered to be the first recording by a black blues artist
bessie smith - 1923 “gulf coast blues” and “down-hearted blues” sold about 800k copies, the first year she recorded. she was dismissed as an inauthentic star because she sang songs written by others. she sang songs about the feelings of black female workers, about power relations with men
bessie smith taught the blues through the aural tradition - many people still learn through her recordings today
memphis minnie - doesn’t fit the classic blues mold. she was born lizzie douglas in mississppi delta region in 1897 - she had a lot of rural style. she wrote her own music and could play guitar. she had a virtuoso picking style, and developed to a smother post- Depression era approach. she favored provocative clothing and stances. she was known for beating up men who went after her and sometimes displayed a pistol.
minnie used an electric guitar - her recordings from 1941 are some of the first electric blues style
langston hughs wrote about her - in chicago defender in january of 1943 - she had amazing music and could talk about community and history
ongoing blues impact: artists and styles
blues women often are omitted from recorded history after bessie smith
willie mae “big mama” thornton - daughter of a gospel church singer and preacher, but wrote and performed blues tunes. she recorded “hound dog” in 1952... spent seven weeks on the r and b charts
elvis presley heard the song - he covered it as a rock and roll tune - and it was known by almost every american as an “elvis” tune. most people didn’t know what it meant, or that it had been first recorded by a black woman. she also wrote “ball and chain” which was covered by janis joplin in the 1960s
ruth brown - credited for formulating the rock and roll sound - she recorded under r and b labels but was restricted from rock and roll charts
meanwhile, white artists such as patti page received fame and fortune covering her songs - brown had a string of hits on the atlantic label in the 1950s - atlantic was dubbed ‘the house that ruth built’. she didn’t receive much money.
margie evans, nina simone, koko taylor, deborah coleman
summary
gospel and blues have impacted a wide array of popular genres in the twentieth and twenty first centuries - country blues, country gospel, doo wop, rhythm and blues, rock and roll... soul music - black power, pride and freedom
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