Drink. Dine. Do. 10.16
BEST FALL DRINKS MOVE OVER, PUMPKIN BEER ELECTION COCKTAILS VA WINE MONTH PICKS
THE CAPS’ NEW ADDITION
LARS ELLER
REDSKINS’ RESIDENT ARTIST
VERNON DAVIS
+
THE HEAD AND THE HEART BUMPER JACKSONS
CULTURE, STYLE & EVENTS
on the scene
For more photos from these And other events, visit the online gallery at www.ontaponline.com.
The fifth annual Wiener 500 took over Yards Park on September 24 with live music from Lloyd Dobler Effect, a race time soundtrack from DJ Chris Styles, entertainment from the voice of the Capitals and guest emcee Wes Johnson, and of course, the wiener dogs racing to raise money for the Washington Humane Society. Sam Adams Oktoberfest beer and a stein-hoisting contest rounded out the day. Photos: Adrianne Depew
CELEBRATE HERE!
AGUA 301 BUFFALO WILD WINGS CACTUS CANTINA EL CAMINO EL REY
EL TIO GUAPOS PACIFICO CANTINA SATELLITE ROOM TORTILLA COAST
Relax Responsibly™. Modelo Especial ® and Modela Negra™ Beers. Imported by Crown Imports, Chicago IL
Table of Contents october 2016: Vol 19 No 1
on our
Model: Meghan Bentley Makeup artist & stylist: KC Gulino Photographer: Lindsay Galatro
cover Drink. Dine. Do. 10.16
who is on tap
BEST FALL DRINKS MOVE OVER, PUMPKIN BEER ELECTION COCKTAILS VA WINE MONTH PICKS
THE CAPS’ NEW ADDITION
LARS ELLER
REDSKINS’ RESIDENT ARTIST
VERNON DAVIS
+
THE HEAD AND THE HEART BUMPER JACKSONS
CULTURE, STYLE & EVENTS
Art director: Kelly Bucher Design: Alanna Sheppard
Day of the Dead Culture, Style & Events This month, we’re celebrating the beginning of our 19th year as a DC area publication. We can’t think of a better way to kick off this momentous occasion than with our October issue, showcasing the eclectic range of content we cover on a monthly basis. This issue celebrates Day of the Dead’s cultural significance and is brimming with tips for how to celebrate the holiday in style. We’ve got an amazing lineup of interviews with the Caps’ Lars Eller, the Redskins’ Vernon Davis, The Head and The Heart, Bumper Jacksons and National Press Club President Thomas Burr. Plus, read all about Virginia Wine Month, fall beers (not just pumpkin!), election-themed cocktails, Alexandria Live Music Week, Sense & Sensibility at Folger Theatre, and much more. Happy autumn, readers!
In this Issue n Stage & Screen Stage & Screen Events........................... 4 Sense & Sensibility................................. 6
n October Roundup
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10
Day of the Dead
Get the Look
Celebrating Mexican Culture
Day of the Dead Style
Celebrating Day of the Dead.. .............. 8 Get the Look: Day of the Dead.......... 10 Cocktails & Canvas Artists. . ................. 14 National Press Club’s Thomas Burr . . .. 16 Drink, Dine, Do...................................... 27
n Sports Capital Knowledge............................... 20 Redskins’ Vernon Davis........................ 22 Caps’ Addition Lars Eller.. .................... 24
n Dining New, Notable, No Longer.................... 38
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22
Six Places to Cast Your Vote
Vernon Davis
Presidential Election Cocktails
The Redskins’ Resident Artist
n Drinks Election-themed Cocktails.. ................ 18 Move Over, Pumpkin Beer.................. 40 The Bierdo Gets Weird in Portland.. .. 42 Behind the Bar....................................... 44 Diverse Virginia Wines......................... 48
n Music
24
56
Lars Eller
The Head and The Heart
The Caps’ New Addition
2
Return to DC
On Tap | OCTOBER 2016 | www.ontaponline.com
DJ Harry Hotter..................................... 52 Alexandria Live Music Week............... 54 The Head and The Heart.. .................... 56 Bumper Jacksons.................................. 58 Music Picks............................................. 60
Founder James Currie Publisher Jennifer Currie
jennifer@ontaponline.com
Managing Editor Monica Alford
monica@ontaponline.com
EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Trent Johnson trent@ontaponline.com
Digital EDITOR Adrianne Morris
adrianne@ontaponline.com
Events & promotions manager Theresa Converse theresa@ontaponline.com
Events & Promotions Assistant Shannon Darling shannon@ontaponline.com
Print & Digital Design Alanna Sheppard alanna@ontaponline.com
Nick Caracciolo KEY ACCOUNT MANAGER Tom Roth tomroth@ontaponline.com
Contributing Writers
Tess Ankeny, Marcus K. Dowling, Jake Emen, Nick Hardt, Bridey Heing, Jon Kaplan, Eric Kozlic, Kaitlyn McQuin, Courtney Sexton, Chris Silva
Contributing Photographers
Shelly Coates, Shannon Darling, Adrianne Depew, Lindsay Galatro, Michelle Goldchain, Nick Hardt, Cristina O’Connell, Mark Raker, Mark Van Bergh On Tap Magazine is published 11 times per year. ©2016 by Five O’Clock Publishing, LLC. All rights reserved. Use or reproduction of any materials contained herein is strictly prohibited without express prior written consent. Log on to www. ontaponline.com for more information.
Office
25 Dove St, Alexandria, VA 22314 Tel: 703-465-0500 Fax: 703-465-0400 www.ontaponline.com Calendar Submissions www.ontaponline.com/calendar Due by 15th of month for print issue.
SATURDAY • OCTOBER 22 • 1-4PM Gangplank SEASONAL Marina Park | 6oo Water Street SW | On the Waterfront! BEER GARDEN & FESTIVAL Seasonal Beer Garden & Live Music from the Wil Gravatt Band
Come celebrate everything pumpkin onPLUS Saturday, October 22 MAYHEM! PUMPKIN from 1 to 4pm at Gangplank Marina Pumpkin Bowling Competition Park—600 Water Street SWExtravaganza Pumpkin Pie Eating CASH Clash of the Headless Horsemen Enjoy the Seasonal Beer Garden Lantern Challenge and a great Spooky October afternoon Pet Costume Contest listening to the Wil Gravatt Registration for contests on-site Band on the waterfront.
prizes for all contests!
www.pumpkindc.com
(Must be at least 21 years of age to purchase or consume alcohol)
for info and directions
Must be at least 21 years of age to purchase or consume alcohol.
Pumpkin Palooza is a FREE community event produced by Hoffman-Madison Waterfront in partnership with On Tap Magazine and Cantina Marina. Please consider walking, taking Metro, using Capital
BikeSharePalooza or alternate of transportation, no public parking isby available at The Wharf. The event is locatedin at partnership 600 Water Streetwith SW and within four blocks and of theCantina L’ Enfant Plaza and Waterfront Pumpkin ismeans a FREE communityasevent produced Hoffman-Madison Waterfront OnisTap Magazine Marina. Metrorail stops. The Wharf is a new, mixed-use, waterfront development led by PN Hoffman and Madison Marquette that is now under construction. The first phase of The Wharf will open on October 12, Please consider walking, taking Metro, using Capital BikeShare or alternate means of transportation, as no public parking is available at The Wharf. The event 2017. When complete, The Wharf will feature approximately three million square feet of new residential, office, hotel, retail, cultural, and public uses including waterfront parks, promenades, piers, is and docks. More information www.wharfdc.com. General information is available at 202-688-3590. located at 600 Water Street SWis online and isatwithin four blocks of the L’ Enfant Plaza and Waterfront Metrorail stops. The Wharf is a new, mixed-use, waterfront development led by PN Hoffman and Madison Marquette that is now under construction. The first phase of The Wharf will open on October 12, 2017. When complete, The Wharf will feature approximately three million square feet of new residential, office, hotel, retail, cultural, and public uses including waterfront parks, promenades, piers, and docks. More information is online at www.wharfdc.com. General information is available at 202-688-3590.
Stage & Screen Events By Trent Johnson
THROUGH SATURDAY, OCTOBER 15 What We’re Up Against Women get the short end of the stick sometimes, and it’s not okay. In fact, at no point in modern history has the disparity of treatment between men and women come to the forefront of discussion as much as now. The topic was the focus of a recent Bud Light ad, and numerous stories have been penned in the past six months regarding this ugly truth. What We’re Up Against displays this onstage, as the production sheds light on the subject in the form of office relations and tackles how sexism comes into play at places of work. The comedy is critically acclaimed, and takes an explosive look at a battle of the sexes in an architecture office. The play runs Thursdays through Saturdays at 8 p.m., and Sundays at 3 p.m. Tickets cost $35-$45. Keegan Theatre: 1742 Church St. NW, DC; www.keegantheatre.com
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 4 - SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 20 Freaky Friday So most people probably know this story, as a mother and teenage daughter experience a body switch with hijinks ensuing shortly after this sporadic reshuffle of the cards. Reruns of this movie can still be seen on various channels, but reruns are boring. However, adaptations can be fascinating as new takes on similar subject matter can unearth details undiscovered. So even though you likely know the basics of this plot, seeing it onstage might give you a different look, furthering your appreciation for this timeless classic. Times vary by date. Tickets start at $40. Signature Theatre: 4200 Campbell Ave. Arlington, VA; www.sigtheatre.org
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 6 - SUNDAY, OCTOBER 9 Capital Fringe POP [Performance over Projection]: Short Film and 10-Minute Play Series Have you ever been in a movie for an hour-and-a-half, and glanced at your wrist to check the time only to realize you don’t wear a watch? But seriously, have you ever thought, “Why is this movie dragging?” Us too, and that’s why short films and plays always pique our interest, because they typically represent a fast pace with an intriguing story. Capital Fringe is bringing
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you both with this inaugural event, playing on the theme of how we experience public and private space. The films and plays will contrast each other in pairs, with each representing the public versus the private. So if you’re the impatient type, check out these quickies, and learn about what is and isn’t acceptable behavior in a coffee shop. The films and plays run Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m., and Sunday at 2 p.m. Tickets cost $25 per performance, or $34 per series pass. Logan Fringe Arts Space at Trinidad Theatre: 1358 Florida Ave. NE, DC; www.capitalfringe.org
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 6 - SUNDAY, OCTOBER 30 Ruthless! The Musical Kids are ruthless. In fact, kids in the five to 10-year-old range are probably the worst people in the world to talk to if you’re feeling self-conscious about something. Nothing will stop them from being blunt and honest. This Broadway parody focuses on a kid who really wants to play the lead in his school play, and what ensues are drastic measures taken by said kid. The play is meant to explore the subjects of Broadway, child acting and parenthood in a comedic manner through the vessel of this child’s ruthlessness. Times vary by date. Tickets cost $30. Creative Cauldron at ArtSpace Falls Church: 410 S. Maple Ave. Falls Church, VA; www.creativecauldron.org
MONDAY, OCTOBER 10 - SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 6 Kiss Double dates are a fun time. It’s like hanging out with your friend, but with your significant other in tow – what more could you ask for? How about a meta play about a double date? Kiss makes its U.S. debut at Woolly Mammoth, with the Chilean play following a duo who reveals secrets in an intense performance that at some point involves a video chat with a fugitive. While the characters’ double date sounds a bit traumatic, going to see their story unfold is probably a solid call for all lovebirds in the DMV. Times vary by date. Tickets cost $20-$54. Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company: 641 D St. NW, DC; www.woollymammoth.net
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 12 - SUNDAY, OCTOBER 30 Convergence Theatre Presents Witch What if witches are real, but invisible? This is the astounding question asked by Witch. If the answer to this particular query is “Yes,” then perhaps we’ll finally get the answer to why bad things keep happening to us and why socks mysteriously disappear in the
dryer. With poems, physical movements and projections, Convergence Theatre’s latest Jacobean tragedy “summons the damned from past and present, unleashing the demon in all of us.” The show should prove to be scary and enlightening, however I doubt our lost socks will be returned, regardless of whether or not witches are responsible. The show runs Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m., and Sundays at 3 p.m. Tickets cost $18. Mead Theatre Lab at Flashpoint: 916 G St. NW, DC; www.convergancetheatre.org
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 15 - SATURDAY, OCTOBER 22 UrbanArias: The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat Based on the renowned novella by Oliver Sacks, The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat seems like a humorous title, because at a glimpse it seems like a preposterous mistake. However, the main character is plagued by a disease which renders him unable to pinpoint exactly what he’s looking at. What ensues is comedy in the sense that a dude taking his hat out on a date would look a little odd in public. However, if you’ve seen Saturday Night Live’s beef skit with Drake, you know that some people really dig their caps. So guys, take your ladies out and show them that they’re more important than your hat(s). Shows on October 15, 21 and 22 at 8 p.m. Show on October 16 at 2 p.m. Tickets cost $32-$35. Atlas Performing Arts Center: 1333 H St. NE, DC; www.urbanarias.org
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 18 - WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 19 Danish Dance Theatre: Black Diamond For two days only, the Danish Dance Theatre brings their unbelievable routine to the District, which sold out the Nordic Cool Festival in 2013. Black diamonds on ski slopes are known as the routes with the most resistance, and are truly meant for experienced riders. For most people, any studio’s performance would represent a black diamond, as professionals are far superior to clubgoers only willing to subtly sway side to side. So if this performance carries the moniker, you can be sure the moves will carry both grace and physical prowess. Performances at 8 p.m. Tickets cost $25-$79. The Kennedy Center: 2700 F St. NW, DC; www.kennedy-center.org
A NEW LEVEL OF LUXURY ON THE CAPITOL RIVERFRONT
1011 1st Street SE | Washington, DC 844.336.0317 | www.parcriverside.com
www.ontaponline.com | OCTOBER 2016 | ON TAP
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Sense
By Monica Alford Some would argue that Jane Austen is quite witty – funny even, drawing readers into the slightly nuanced world of her characters as they navigate the perils of shifting social status, always taking a painfully long time to declare one’s feelings to the object of their desire. Others may not appreciate the subtleties of Austen’s dry humor, or have not yet had the chance to experience it. This fall, Folger Theatre is offering Austen addicts and newbies alike the opportunity to delve into the lives of the Dashwood family in Sense & Sensibility, playing through November 6. Folger’s production of one of Austen’s most famous stories is true to her novel, while also invoking the cleverness and charm of the 1995 film (which you should absolutely see if you’re a fan of Alan Rickman or Kate Winslet, or if you just want to see Hugh Grant in perhaps his doofiest moments onscreen). Moreover, the play adapted by Kate Hamill and directed by Eric Tucker is an energetic romp from start to finish, packed with physical comedy, constantly changing roles and fluid stage direction that keeps the audience on their toes. For those unfamiliar, the story follows the struggles of the elder Dashwood sisters, Elinor and Marianne, after their father passes away
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ON TAP | OCTOBER 2016 | www.ontaponline.com
Sensibility
Photo: Teresa Wood
and their family is forced to move to a cottage in the country. The reserved Elinor, played by graceful Brooklyn-based actress Maggie McDowell, pines for the endearingly awkward Edward Ferrars, played by area actor Jamie Smithson. Meanwhile, headstrong and passionate Marianne (Erin Weaver) is caught in a love triangle between Willoughby (1811’s equivalent of a heartthrob played by Jacob Fishel) and the much older, more experienced Colonel Brandon (played by James Patrick Nelson). Tucker’s production opens with the actors interacting with the audience, then suddenly breaking into contemporary dance with some kind of electronica playing in the background. The cast switches gears completely in a matter of seconds when 19th-century music begins to play and a formal dance from the time period ensues. Nearly half the cast picks up other roles throughout the play, sometimes in the same scene, resulting in hilarity when several actors play horses – one was even pet by an audience member – and a rather ditsy woman sporting a tiara. Some of the best role-changing moments occur when multiple actors (Lisa Birnbaum and Kathryn Tkel in particular) play two characters simultaneously, pushed across the room on rolling chairs to
immediately transform into the other character conversing with the first. It was immediately apparent to this reviewer that the cast was having an enormous amount of fun onstage, exuding a level of energy and excitement that was infectious to the audience, especially in such an intimate space as the Folger. And though the comedic timing was impeccable and the wit turned up to full throttle, the more serious and heartfelt moments of the play remained intact, with beautiful performances from the actors – McDowell, Smithson, Nelson and Weaver in particular. The raw emotion conveyed by each actor was palpable, striking a chord with anyone in the audience who has been on the receiving end of heartbreak or even worse, the purgatory we wait in when the object of our affection hasn’t made up their mind or declared their intentions. When speaking with McDowell about the quiet composure that Elinor maintains until the final moments of the play, the actress says her character is the kind of woman who cares so much about everyone else that she is willing to put her own feelings last. And because McDowell is part of an ensemble cast, she says it’s easy for her to translate wanting to do right by her fellow actors to taking care of her family and the people she loves in the play.
on the scene
For more photos from these And other events, visit the online gallery at www.ontaponline.com.
“They’ll see themselves onstage. They’ll see their own relationships. I think the magic of the theater is brought to life with this piece. With my whole being, I say come to this show.” “Wanting to do a good job as an actor and a castmate easily connects me to the weight of responsibility that I think Elinor feels sometimes,” she says. Smithson shares McDowell’s view of the cast as an onstage family, and says it’s easy to fall in love with the actress every night because “she’s such a beautiful spirit and beautiful human being.” As for channeling his inner Edward, it’s a no-brainer. “That awkward loser is me,” he says with charming self-deprecation. “At my prom, I think I was sitting by myself in the limo.” And it’s that element of humanity that Smithson says is the reason why theatergoers need to see this production. “They’ll see themselves onstage,” he says. “They’ll see their own relationships. I think the magic of the theater is brought to life with this piece. With my whole being, I say come to this show.” Plus, he says dudes will score major points with their ladies for seeing Sense & Sensibility on date night. “I can guarantee it.” Whether you’re looking for an excellent date night option or just an authentic theatergoing experience, don’t miss the opportunity to see this refreshingly engaging play at Folger. Sense & Sensibility runs through November 6, and tickets are $30-$75. Check Folger’s website for 30 and under discounts.
Folger Theatre: 201 E. Capitol St. SE, DC; 202-544-4600; www.folger.edu/folger-theatre
Guests enjoyed opening night of DC Fashion Week at Yards Park with pop-up retail shops, a stellar fashion show and a runway performance from Models Inc. Photos: Mark Van Bergh
www.ontaponline.com | OctoBER 2016 | On Tap
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Day of the Dead Celebrating Mexican Culture
By Kaitlyn McQuin Photo: Courtesy of the Mexican Cultural Institute
f you ask Alberto Fierro how he describes Day of the Dead, he says it’s a way of remembrance. The Mexican Cultural Institute’s executive director says the holiday, observed primarily in Mexican culture and dedicated to celebrating and remembering loved ones who have passed by honoring their lives, is one of the most important traditions in terms of religion and beliefs. “It's a beautiful, indigenous tradition where you cook things and play music that your loved ones used to like,” Fierro says. A common misconception is that Day of the Dead, or Día de los Muertos, is similar to Halloween. In reality, the holiday is a day of celebrating and rejoicing, and through this honor and offering, the dead are able to live again. October 31 marks the first day of the holiday, when observers begin preparing by cooking food and making sugar skulls as offerings to the departed. One of Fierro’s favorite childhood memories is of local bakeries selling pan de muerto, a Mexican sweet bread topped with either sugar or sesame seeds. When asked his preference, Fierro replies, “Sugar! Yes! The real tradition is the sugar bread.” “We’d always fight over who would get the bones,” he adds, speaking of the crossshaped dough that adorns the loaf. Aside from traditional offerings of bread and flowers, the deceased’s favorite beverage is sometimes gifted as a more generous offering. The lesson to be learned is that, even in the afterlife, there’s always a reason for a little celebration. November 1 and 2 round out the holiday – the first is dedicated to honoring children and the
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second is reserved for honoring deceased adults. In DC, Día de los Muertos does not go unnoticed. With the twelfth largest Latino community in the nation, there are several cultural events happening in the city this month and next – from the Day of the Dead Altar Contest at the National Zoo on October 28 to a Day of the Dead exhibit at the National Museum of the American Indian on October 29 and 30. Fierro hopes that through these events, the local community will be exposed to the richness of Mexican culture, particularly with an altar constructed at the Mexican Cultural Institute by Mexican contemporary artist Luis Fitch. The altar, on display from October 29 to November 15, marks the first time the institute has brought in an outside artist to design the altar. Fitch says he hopes the DC community views his installation, which will be dedicated to mothers in Mexico who have lost children, as approachable, and hopes they’ll leave with open minds about Mexican culture. “Through the arts, you can respect other cultures,” he says. “At the moment, I think we are in some dark times. Through arts and culture, people can understand [people of Mexican descent] more.” Both Fierro and Fitch say the institute is very happy to share this tradition with DC, providing “huge opportunities to cross cultures.”
For more information about the Mexican Cultural Institute, and Fitch, visit www.instituteofmexicodc.org and www.luisfitch.com/art.
in the City
Skull art: Luis Fitch
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 28 Day of the Dead Altar Contest Smithsonian National Zoological Park: 3001 Connecticut Ave. NW, DC; www.fonz.org/altars
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 29 SUNDAY, OCTOBER 30 Day of the Dead Program National Museum of the American Indian: Fourth Street & Independence Avenue, SW, DC; www.nmai.si.edu
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 29 TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 15 Day of the Dead Altar and Installation Display Mexican Cultural Institute: 2829 16th St. NW, DC; www.instituteofmexicodc.org
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 4 Black Tie Day of the Dead Gala & Fiesta Mexican Cultural Institute: 2829 16th St. NW, DC; www.instituteofmexicodc.org
Creating
MODEL: MEGHAN BENTLEY PHOTOS: LINDSAY GALATRO
the
COVER
group of ladies laborate with a talented On Tap was thrilled to col Day of the Dead r ou For e covers to date. iqu un st mo r ou of e on on grade teacher local model and second shoot, we worked with Ellen DeGeneres grand prize winner of an Meghan Bentley (also the latro and art Ga y r), photographer Lindsa Show promotion last yea e Northern hav to h ug eno were also lucky director Kelly Bucher. We makeup artist join us from NYC as our Virginia native KC Gulino clothing for the makeup, accessories and and stylist, providing all the one-of-a-kind of e the shoot and lov for ion vis red sha r Ou shoot. y of different ether, resulting in a variet Mexican holiday came tog Muertos in style nts to celebrate DĂa de los looks for anyone who wa ho the liday. Don’t cultural significance of while also honoring the pages 8 and 10. icle ture and style art s on cul ad De the of y Da r ou miss
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WEEKEND BRUNCH!
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301 Water St. SE | Washington, DC | 202.484.0307 | agua301.com (At Yards Park, 2 blocks from Nats Park along the river walk, next to the fountains)
www.ontaponline.com | OCTOBER 2016 | ON TAP
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3 By Monica Alford On Tap had a fabulous time collaborating with talented makeup artist and stylist KC Gulino to achieve unique Day of the Dead looks for our October cover. We caught up with Gulino about one of our favorite looks from the shoot featuring model Meghan Bentley, and picked her brain for advice on how to rock a similar look for Day of the Dead celebrations around the District.
“The flower headpiece is from Halloween Adventure, with locations in Maryland and Virginia.” Gulino notes Party City as another option, with locations around the DMV.
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“The makeup I used for the Day of the Dead look consists mostly of Ben Nye products and Wet N Wild black liquid eyeliner.” She also recommends Sephora brushes, Urban Decay’s Shadow Box eyeshadow palette and Sally Beauty Supply eyelashes. Ulta carries the Palladio Line Out Loud in Sparkler and Sapphire, Smashbox Be Legendary Matte Lipstick in Fireball and NYX Cosmetics Slim Lip Pencil in Hot Red used for the shoot. “Any brightly colored necklace will work, or check out a bead shop near you to find cool, beaded necklaces.” Try Beadazzled in Falls Church, Va. and DC, or S&A Beads in Laurel, Md.
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“There are so many great skull or sugar skull shirts out there, and they’re easy to find!” Gulino recommends local thrift shops, or Buffalo Exchange and Hot Topic.
“I bought the pants Meghan is wearing from Target, but you can find fun floral pants just about anywhere as they’re in style right now.” Gulino recommends shopping for similar pants at Target, Nordstrom or Neiman Marcus.
“The shoes Meghan is wearing are by Tahari, and are from T.J.Maxx.” Gulino says T.J.Maxx currently has plenty of options similar in style to the Tahari heels. Makeup artist & stylist: KC Gulino Model: Meghan Bentley Photo: Lindsay Galatro
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ON TAP | OCTOBER 2016 | www.ontaponline.com
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W
e chatted with Gulino and three local makeup artists who specialize in Day of the Dead style about what drew them to the holiday, and their tips for how to pull together an awesome look to celebrate Día de los Muertos fashionably.
KC Gulino
Danielle Chelena
Caitlyn Meyer
Izabella Iannotti
Day of the Dead Inspiration The iconic sugar skull that many associate with Day of the Dead is such a fun symbol to draw inspiration from. It’s colorful, symmetrical, has intricate designs and is a playful representation of a skull. I have to mention that I’m also pretty fascinated by the actual holiday itself.
Day of the Dead Inspiration You can really make it your own and get creative with it! It doesn’t matter what color or design you decide to do – there is no right or wrong way.
Day of the Dead Inspiration I’ve always found calaveras to be so beautiful, but after my grandfather died, I became so fascinated with Day of the Dead folklore and traditions. And, being a makeup artist, that fascination and adoration eventually transitioned into makeup.
Day of the Dead Inspiration I love that I can use my creativity and bright colors, and challenge myself. I think that the possibilities are endless and I can use so many colors and combinations and just create.
Personal Touches Bring out your personality in your makeup and style. The more attention to detail, the better, specifically when it comes to the makeup! Pro Tips • Look in your closet before shopping for an outfit. You’d be surprised what you can do with what you already have! • Do your research! Pinterest, Instagram and YouTube have some really great makeup tutorials and pictures to help you generate ideas. • Accessorize!
Personal Touches This is the part that I love: getting creative! I’m the person that digs through their drawers and finds everyday items that I can repurpose somehow and use for my costume. Just remember, anything goes. Pro Tips • Sketch out your design. • Use your everyday makeup products. • Practice! It doesn’t have to be perfect. Sometimes my favorite makeup looks end up being the ones that weren’t planned.
Follow Chelena on Instagram @makeupbydani_.
Follow Gulino on Instagram @kcgulino.
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On Tap | OctoBER 2016 | www.ontaponline.com
Personal Touches I personally always love a good flower crown, or top hat, for this type of look. Pro Tips • Start with white. It’s much less of a commitment, because it’s much easier to correct or go over than black. • Have fun with it! The little details are what make this type of makeup so interesting. Art is an expression, so do what you feel.
Learn more about Meyer at www.caitlynmeyer.com.
Personal Touches I love playing with textures, feathers and flower headpieces. Red colored accessories are a must! Some dried flowers can look very cool and pretty as well. Pro Tips • Don’t be afraid to try, and have fun with it! • Practice a day before or draw it on paper first. • Make sure to define your cheekbones, and don’t be afraid to add heavy color to contour. • Prep your skin with moisturizer and a primer to make sure your look will not fade.
Learn more about Iannotti on her Facebook page, Bella Brazil Hair and Makeup.
You Are Invited
Cocktails & Canvas Wednesday, October 5, 6-9 pm A Grand Opening Celebration Featuring Works By
Jordann Wine, Margaret Bakke, Kasey O’Boyle, Kaye Meier, Katie Pumphrey, Naomi Duffy And Guest Mixologists from
Compass Rose, 2 Birds 1 Stone, 801, Oyamel Reading Room, Jack Rose Reserve your complimentary ticket at
5333RSVP.com 5333 Connecticut Ave. NW |www.5333Conn.com |202-688-3409
Artwork: Naomi Taitz Duffy
Meet the Artists at
Cocktails & Canvas By Trent Johnson & Kaitlyn McQuin
We live in a city with thriving arts and mixology scenes. On October 5, the two will converge at Cocktails & Canvas, a grand opening celebration for 5333 Connecticut in Northwest DC. Don’t miss the opportunity to mingle with top mixologists and emerging artists, plus enjoy music on the rooftop. Excited yet? Read on to learn more about the artists featured in this truly grand opening.
MARGARET BAKKE This oil painter and printmaker hails from Arlington, Va., and seeks to create works that challenge viewers to think, and to better process their world. The 31-year-old draws inspiration from fellow female artists such as Chantal Joffe, Jenny Saville and Sally Mann due to their penchant for depicting “real, fleshy, beautiful” scenes of women and children, and has been an active artist since studying the subject in college. Currently, Bakke is etching several plates with hopes to print them in the near future. Before the birth of her child a month ago, the last thing she finished was a mobile made from hand-painted gold foil eggs. While she doesn’t have a finite goal, she enjoys the process of creating pieces, as each carries moments of uncertainty, despair and joy. She is currently part of the Flatfile program at Logan Circle-based gallery Transformer, home to a series of her figurative pieces. Learn more about her work at www.margaretbakke.com and on Instagram @margaretbakke.
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NAOMI TAITZ DUFFY Former elementary school teacher Naomi Taitz Duffy recently made her comeback in the DC art scene. When asked about her inspirations, Duffy says, “I’ve always been drawn to art from the Impressionist and PostImpressionist movements. Thinking about that in relation to my work now, I appreciate that these artists were the first to represent images through a breakdown of color. The way the color and texture of the paint remains so alive in those paintings really inspires me.” Duffy is also motivated by breaking the educational gap. The 38-year-old’s time as a teacher, and the fact that she is a mother, are to thank for that. Duffy’s medium of choice is acrylic paint, specifically when painted on wooden panels. She tends to focus on color and repeating specific forms, such as birds in flight, piles of leaves and various shapes, which will be seen in her upcoming project “My Geometry,” not yet on display. In the meantime, you can find her work in various galleries in DC. Learn more at www.naomitaitzduffy.com, and follow her on Instagram @naomitaitzduffy.
KAYLA KINSELLA MEIER This lover of “capturing warped perspectives of the everyday” considers herself a surrealist. Meier says she's “inspired by daily observations, dreamscapes, computer glitches and nature.” A current student at the University of Maryland, College Park, Meier can be found studying anthropology on top of creating art, with the goal of visualizing her thoughts and opinions in each piece. The 21-year-old pulls inspiration from her family and friends, stating that they are “extremely creative and loving people whose love encourages the production of [her own] art.” Meier's art has been featured in Northeast DC’s Latela Art Gallery, at Black Whiskey on 14th Street this July for her first solo art show, “RESTLESS!,” and at Artomatic 2015, giving her the confidence to define herself as an artist. Learn more at www.kaylameier.wixsite.com/kayla2323 and on Instagram @KKMart23.
KASEY O’BOYLE Kasey O’Boyle is a 24-year-old artist living near H Street in DC, and has labeled herself as an artist for as long as she can remember. Like Lady Gaga, she, too, was “born this way.” O’Boyle pulls her inspiration from American history, class and downward mobility. “There is a movement happening in DC right now, which is supremely inspiring,” she says. O’Boyle credits the movement with launching a citywide mural program that pairs homeowners with up-and-coming local artists. Her favorite medium is paint, and she constantly dabbles with how it translates to canvas. Her main goal with each piece she creates is to “simply learn a thing or two along the way,” which is an admirable goal for a budding young artist. Her work can be found at Philz Coffee in the Capitol Riverfront as well as Cove’s co-working space on 14th Street. Learn more at www. kaseyoboyle.com, and follow her on Instagram at @kaseyoboyle.
KATIE PUMPHREY Twenty-eight-year-old DC native Katie Pumphrey describes her artistic style as “loose, painterly and aggressive.” Her medium of choice is oil paint and charcoal, which can be seen translated in her works inspired by open water. “I pull from my experiences and use imagery that explores similar experiences for the viewer,” she adds when asked where she finds her inspiration. Her goal with each piece she creates is to engage viewers with imagery that is loud and chaotic, while also inviting [the viewer] closer. “I hope my work creates a dialogue about our reactions, reflexes and the way we experience our environments,” she says. Check out her work at the Susan Calloway Fine Arts gallery in Georgetown. Learn more at www.katiepumphrey.com and on Instagram @katiepumphreyart.
JORDANN WINE With a studio practice in Takoma, Jordann Wine spends her time in the city using glitter, paint, gel pens, colored pencils and all metallics to hone the style she defines as “geometric abstraction.” The 29-year-old says she’s inspired by “sacred geometry, specifically what can be found within ancient architecture.” She’s especially impacted by the works of minimalist artists Frank Stella and Sol LeWitt. “I have had many opportunities to observe and reflect on the patterns, colors and movement of light that make up our diverse world.” Wine is currently creating two 48” x 48” drawings, the largest she’s ever conjured up. She finds the process of art therapeutic and reflective of her internal dialogue. “I hope that the viewer can ultimately be inspired by the work as well as feel at peace.” Learn more at www.jordannwine.com and on Instagram @jordannwine.
Cocktails & Canvas is from 6-9 p.m. on Wednesday, October 5, and is free to attend. Register online at tickets.ontaponline.com. 5333 Connecticut: 5333 Connecticut Ave. NW, DC; 202-688-3409; www.5333conn.com www.ontaponline.com | OCTOBER 2016 | ON TAP
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A President Covering Washington By Trent Johnson
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National Press Club President Thomas Burr in his office
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ake me sound good,” Thomas Burr quips sarcastically. “I hate it when people say that to me.” These are the kind of meta answers you get when you interview a person who interviews people for a living. Not only is Burr a reporter, covering DC for The Salt Lake Tribune, the
ON TAP | OCTOBER 2016 | www.ontaponline.com
Photos: Lindsay Galatro
37-year-old journalist is also the active president of the National Press Club. And with the presidential election approaching in November, Burr is in the thick of reporting on his third race. “Elections are always very difficult because what you’re writing can impact how people vote, and therefore can impact where the country heads,” he says. “I’m not saying I’m a big enough deal to change how people vote, but when you’re writing in some elections, you can make a huge impact.” Burr enjoys being on the trail with candidates because it’s a different experience to be the person asking questions, rather than simply hearing the answers. However, elections are often heated and
caustic, with candidates trading barbs or raising the stakes with verbal attacks and hefty promises. And the current race between Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton is definitely all of the above – even the media has been under fire. “I don’t think, in recent times, we’ve seen this much vitriol aimed at journalists,” he says. “Secretary Clinton is very sensitive when talking to the press and is very standoffish, but I think they’re trying to fix that now. Donald Trump banned certain news outlets from covering him and aims his anger at rallies at individual journalists.” This is where Burr’s role as president of the National Press Club comes into play, as he often is charged with speaking out on issues revolving around freedom of the press. “It’s a tough gig in some ways,” he says. “One thing I think journalists are always allowed is freedom of the press. I have hit the Trump campaign pretty hard. When their first ban list came out, I called it un-American, and that’s a pretty strong statement for me to make. I think in many ways, we’re in a good spot to make those calls and be the advocates for campaign reporters and the press in general.” Though Burr is openly critical about certain aspects of today’s race, he’s also poignantly transparent about the shortcomings of the Obama administration’s dealings with the press. “Obama in person is one of the kindest, nicest guys you’ll ever meet. I have been disappointed by this White House a lot, by its reticence to be more forthcoming with information. One of the first things Obama talked about in office was making the government more transparent, and some journalists have called it one of the most opaque [administrations].”
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he National Press Club president grew up in Salina, Utah, and joked with On Tap about the tiny town only recently putting up their first stop light. At 12-years-old, the now full-time reporter worked at the local newspaper, where he aided in the look and design of the broadsheet. “I really loved the idea of doing something different every day,” Burr says. “I’m not a person who can sit at a desk very long. I like going out and meeting people, asking questions, and learning new things.” At Southern Utah University, Burr wrote for his college paper, and also received work from The Salt Lake Tribune as a stringer reporter. The small reports on campers lost in the mountains, and other various southern Utah news stories, were strong enough for him to get a job at the Tribune fresh out of college. “They would call me on occasion, or I would call them and tell them the interesting things I had,” he says. “It was daunting, and obviously an amazing opportunity, but I had the ‘Don’t screw up’ thoughts. It’s not just people reading your college paper anymore. You're covering a gubernatorial debate.” After three years in Salt Lake City, Burr became the Washington correspondent in 2005. The job requires Burr to cover the happenings in DC that are important to the audience in Utah, including politics, national lands news and other federal agencies. Though the scene in DC is radically different than the one in Salt Lake City, Burr has made the nation’s capital his home. From pictures of politicians behind his desk to his penchant for mentioning fun facts about the press club and the city, Burr has made DC his journalism playground.
“It’s still daunting to this day,” he says. “When I first moved here and I’m asking senators questions and going up to John McCain and Orrin Hatch, it was different. I remember sitting next to Barack Obama during the roundtable, and the whole time I’m thinking, ‘This is the president of the United States.’”
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urr says the National Press Club was essentially founded at a DC bar by 32 newspaper men in 1908. The club has been at its current location since 1927, and at the time, it was the tallest non-government building in the city. With 3,100 members worldwide, the club often hosts events on the subject of press freedom issues, as well as luncheons with celebrity politicians. Burr ran for president last year, and upon winning, has enjoyed the duties of his one-year term. “I’ve been on the board since 2011, and I’ve been a member since 2005,” he says. “I wanted to give in some way to the cause of journalism, and worked up the ladder. To some people, we’re the face of the press corp, and we have people that want to come here and talk about journalism.” Most of the club luncheons with guests are open to the public, but on occasion the club will host special events exclusively for club members and credentialed journalists. “If Secretary Clinton or Mr. Trump came here, I’d probably do that, because everyone would want to come,” he says. “I’d want to keep it limited to active journalists, but most are open to the public. I actually have to remind people watching our events on TV that these things are open to the public, so it’s not journalists applauding these answers.” Another responsibility Burr undertakes is the idea of the press club as a megaphone defending journalists around the world. From lunches with journalists jailed for doing their jobs, to public figures damning the practice, the club often makes a comment through Burr. “The most I have to fear as a journalist in Washington is missing a phone call and a great scoop – and getting a papercut. I’m not going to get arrested. I’m not going to be hauled off to prison for doing my job. We have a duty to speak out for all of our colleagues across the world.” Burr grapples with these harsh international realities often, and the club issues four to five statements per month regarding journalists being detained, arrested or harassed. When he’s not writing a story or issuing statements, Burr moderates interesting events or simply chats with a “who’s who” of reporters. From Salina to DC, Burr has always wanted to cover the world of politics, and with election season nearing its head, he’s a busy guy. “Yesterday, I hosted George Clooney and Don Cheadle, who needed a green room, in my office. Interviewing high-profile people on stage in front of a live audience is fun. Speaking on journalists being detained is illuminating, and a great responsibility.”
To learn more about Thomas Burr, follow him on Twitter @thomaswburr. For more information about the National Press Club, visit www.press.org.
www.ontaponline.com | OCTOBER 2016 | ON TAP
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PLACES to Cast Your Vote
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t’s one thing to “vote early and vote often” when you’re trying to game the system for your mobbed up buddies, but it’s another thing entirely when cocktails are the name of the game. Now, all a trip to the polls requires is another round of drinks at one of these DC bars. So pound the pavement and make your voice heard on the important issue of presidential election-themed cocktails.
with Presidential Election Cocktails By Jake Emen Off the Record coasters
Ottoman Taverna’s Side Sweep
Espita Mezcaleria’s cocktails
The Pantsuit vs. The Side Sweep
The Apprentice vs. Madam Presidenta
Ottoman Taverna is pulling no punches by taking on the signature look of each candidate. Beverage director Yani Salguero came up with The Pantsuit, made with vodka, lime juice and housemade peppermint shrub, topped with sparkling wine, and The Side Sweep, with gin, muddled basil, strawberry, raspberry, lime-honey water and Raki. Each is offered at $14. Ottoman Taverna: 425 I St. NW, DC; www.ottomantaverna.com
Espita Mezcaleria Beverage Director Megan Barnes has crafted The Apprentice and The Madam Presidenta, each priced at $11. Trump’s orange-hued reality show entrant offers mezcal, Campari, orange juice and soda, served on the rocks, while Hillary’s libation is showcased with mezcal, blue Curaçao, El Dorado eight-year-old rum, lime juice and orgeat syrup, served up. Espita Mezcaleria: 1250 9th St. NW, DC; www.espitadc.com
A Battle for The Oval Room With Clinton and Trump both vying for a seat in the Oval Office, it’s only right that the Oval Room is hosting its own battle. Choose between the Build That Wall, with Muscat grape purée, spiced honey syrup and champagne vinegar, topped with soda, and the Madam President, with Cynar, lemon juice, Giffard Abricot, Angostura rum and sparkling wine. Both are priced at $12. The Oval Room: 800 Connecticut Ave. NW, DC; www.ovalroom.com
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Renaissance Dupont’s cocktails
Political Punch Off at the Renaissance Dupont Circle Visit the Renaissance Dupont Circle’s hotel living room every Tuesday to Friday at 5:30 p.m., where two complimentary punches will be served. The recipes will change daily, highlighting local spirits producers. Whichever punch is finished first is the night’s winner, with the overall winner decreed by tallying up the nightly results. They’ll also be hosting Debate Watch Bingo for each debate, with happy hour specials, and winners will receive one of two additional election cocktails – your choice of the Email Me, or The Comb-over. Renaissance Dupont Circle: 1143 New Hampshire Ave. NW, DC; www.marriott.com
Bourbon Steak's Give 'Em Hell Harry
Historic Presidential Tag-Team Battle Royale Bourbon Steak’s head bartender, Torrence Swain, created a stacked team of historical presidential cocktail representatives, with two Democrats and two Republicans. Team Dem showcases 15th President James Buchanan’s sherry cobbler, and 33rd President Harry Truman’s Give ‘Em Hell Harry, with bourbon, Lustau cream sherry and a house-spiced tincture. The duo is up against the GOP’s 31st President Herbert Hoover’s The Chief, a dirty martini with white truffles and a truffle pecorino olive, and 34th President Dwight Eisenhower’s Wizbanger, with Scotch, grenadine, absinthe, dry vermouth and orange bitters. Their mock election lasts for a month, starting on October 8. Cast your vote at the bar, and you’ll be entered to win a free night in the Four Seasons’ epic presidential suite, along with a dinner for two at Bourbon Steak. Bourbon Steak at the Four Seasons Hotel: 2800 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, DC; www.bourbonsteakdc.com
Off the Record coasters
Political Partners Square Off At Off the Record, both the presidential candidates and their VP picks are squaring off. Check out the tandem of Hillary’s Last Word, with Bombay Sapphire, lime juice, green chartreuse, Luxardo Maraschino and grenadine, and the Kainehattan, with Plantation Rum, Carpano Antica vermouth and Angostura bitters. They’re up against the Trumpy Sour, with Knob Creek, barrel-aged bitters, lemon and honey, garnished with thyme and dehydrated lemon, and the Pence’s Tea Party, with Laphroaig 10 and Oban 14 Scotch, Disaronno, Bénédictine, orange juice, ginger syrup and vanilla extract, garnished with a slice of crispy bacon. All cocktails are priced at $16, and don’t forget to gawk at the caricatures on the coasters. Off The Record at The HayAdams: 800 16th St. NW, DC; www.haydams.com
Still thirsty for more? You must really love being involved in the political process! At least another half dozen joints are offering election-themed drinks, including 701 Restaurant, The Grill Room, The Fairmont, Lincoln Restaurant, Teddy & The Bully Bar, ENO Wine Bar and Old Town Alexandria’s Blackwall Hitch. www.ontaponline.com | OCTOBER 2016 | ON TAP
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Compiled by On Tap staff
Getting to Know the Caps 83
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4
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Jay Beagle
Taylor Chorney
10
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Brett Connolly
16
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Stanislav Galiev
HOW DO YOU SPEND YOUR TIME OFF THE ICE? #83 Jay Beagle
#42 Brad Malone
Right wing
Center
“Golfing and playing with my kids”
“I think it’s more of just a relaxation time, especially in the summer. I like to get out on the golf course or out on the lake as much as possible.”
#4 Taylor Chorney Defenseman “As a first-time dad [with] a sixmonth-old boy, pretty much all my time away from the rink is with my son and my wife. If I have some free time, I’m a pretty relaxed guy. I’ll usually put on the TV and relax, or sit outside and read a book. When I’m away from the rink, I try to keep it pretty chill.”
#10 Brett Connolly Right wing “I’m from Canada, and there’s a bunch of lakes where I’m from, so I like to go up to the lake and spend time on the water.”
#16 Stanislav Galiev
#88 Nate Schmidt Defenseman “I like being outdoors – hunting, fishing, that kind of stuff. I golf a little bit. I like to play with dogs.”
#43 Tom Wilson Right wing “I enjoy time at the cottage in the summer, hanging out with friends and going to movies. I’m a big movie guy.”
#26 Daniel Winnik Left wing “Golfing”
Right wing “I just hang out at home and rest. In the offseason, I go golfing, see my family and friends, and just get away from hockey for a little bit. It’s usually mental rest.”
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Before hockey season started heating up, On Tap took some time to catch up with the Caps. We picked the brains of eight players about their time spent off the ice, and what profession they might have pursued if not hockey. Read on for the inside scoop on these players’ hobbies and aspirations.
Photos: Courtesy of the Washington Capitals
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Brad Malone
88
#
Nate Schmidt
43
#
Tom Wilson
26
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Daniel Winnik
IF YOU WEREN’T A PROFESSIONAL HOCKEY PLAYER, WHAT WOULD YOU DO FOR A LIVING? #83 Jay Beagle “Professional motocross”
#4 Taylor Chorney “I probably would be working with my dad. He owns his own company, and I would assume that I probably would have taken a little bit more of an interest in that and tried to learn the business a bit more.”
#10 Brett Connolly “I think I would probably still be doing something in sports – maybe sports psychology or something along those lines.”
#16 Stanislav Galiev “I probably would try to be a professional soccer player.”
#42 Brad Malone “You’d like to think that hopefully you’d still be around the game somehow. Maybe a firefighter or something along the lines of working for a team.”
#88 Nate Schmidt “I’d be a professional hunter, or a professional taste tester. I love playing baseball, so maybe a bullpen catcher.”
#43 Tom Wilson “Hopefully, I’d be in something in the medical field applied to sports.”
#26 Daniel Winnik “I would be working with my friend Art Vandale in importing and exporting.”
Ignite your #Natitude at The Yards Park Celebrate Playoffs at the Capitol Riverfront Pep Rally Celebrate Playoffs at the Capitol Riverfront Pep Rally featuring live music, Bluejacket brews, food trucks, & featuring Live Music, Bluejacket Brews lawn games. Food Trucks, & Lawn Games. 1st Day of Home Games | Two Hours Before 1st Pitch | 355 Water 1st Day of Home Games Street, SE Two Hours Before 1st Pitch | 355 Water Street, SE Visit capitolriverfront.org/natitude, or follow on Facebook & Twitter for the latest updates. @CapitolRiverfront @CapitolRiverfront
@CapitolRvrfront
# CapRiv
THE REDSKINS’ RESIDENT ARTIST
Photos: Courtesy of Vernon Davis
By Trent Johnson Folks in the area have likely heard of Vernon Davis. The DC native was a standout football and basketball player at Paul Laurence Dunbar High School and then at the University of Maryland. In the 2006 NFL draft, he was taken sixth overall by the San Francisco 49ers, where he became the all-time franchise leader for tight ends in receptions, yards and touchdowns. Davis has accumulated accolades in the form of Pro Bowl berths, All-Pro selections and even a Super Bowl victory. At his best, Davis was an overwhelming athlete standing 6-foot-3 and weighing about 250 lbs. Despite his abundantly successful career on the gridiron, athletics weren’t his first love. When he was a child, his grandmother often found him with his head down, focusing on a drawing of his favorite cartoon or painting his blue jeans. Davis was – and still is – infatuated with the arts.
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“I was painting Donald Duck and the Tasmanian Devil, and I didn’t understand why I was intrigued,” Davis says. “Two years ago, I found out that my biological grandfather was an artist, so now it makes sense why I did what I did.” Though the eventual athletic stalwart found solace in art, the community he grew up in was less enthusiastic about the subject. This is why Davis dropped his creative habits when football and basketball moved to the forefront of his priority list in high school. “Growing up in DC, it was more hiphop culture, and in that culture, people are excited about athletics, rap and R&B,” Davis says. “Being a football and basketball player, I felt that it was tough to pursue what I wanted to pursue. I was geared more toward athletics.” And for good reason – Davis was exceptional at football, playing everything
from tight end to safety to even kick returner for Dunbar. He earned a scholarship to the University of Maryland, and majored in criminal justice before shifting his focus to studio art. “When I got into college, I was in an environment where I thought that I was free,” he says. “I wasn’t worried about people criticizing me, and I didn’t have to worry about that anymore. When I looked around, there was freedom, and everyone was expressing themselves in the ways they wanted. I picked up on the synergy and went for it.” On Saturdays, Davis wowed Maryland fans with fascinating catches and crushing blocks. But at school, he was learning how to hone the interest sparked when he was a child. Even though art and football don’t have much in common on the surface, Davis says there are parallels between practicing the two.
on the scene
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I feel like art is important because it allows us to think outside of the box. It opens up your mind to different opportunities and you start thinking. “Just being patient,” he says. “When it comes to art, there’s something about once you get going, it’s hard to stop. You really want to perfect it, whether it’s today or tomorrow. Part of it is you want everyone to be amazed and fascinated by the piece you created. Football is like that, because I want to perfect it before I leave the field, whether it be a block, route or skill.” Though Davis is adamant that his focus is entirely on football during the season, even he succumbs to bouts of sporadic inspiration, causing him to bust out the paintbrush at a moment’s notice. “When I go places and see something that resonates with me, I’ll take note of it either in my mind or I’ll actually write it down. I try to implement those moments in my art, and it could be anything because art comes in so many different forms.” Davis studies studio art, and is more of a painter than anything else. However, lately he’s been dabbling in acting, including a script based on his artistic interest as a child in DC. “It’s called Vernon Don’t Play, and it’s about a kid into art who gets picked on a lot,” he says. While Davis was a little shy about his art as a kid, he’s making efforts to assure that children like him don’t have the same trepidations through the work of the Vernon Davis Foundation. The nonprofit’s mission revolves around promoting art education and appreciation among youth from disadvantaged backgrounds. “I feel like art is important because it allows us to think outside of the box. It opens up your mind to different opportunities and you start thinking. Opening your mind and being better than yesterday is what art allows people to do.”
To learn more about Vernon Davis, his art and his foundation, visit www.vernondavis.com and www.vernondavisfoundation.org.
Country Day at Nationals Park included bull riding, steer roping and good old country fun, plus music from Joe Bachman & The Tailgaters and ice cold Budweiser beer. PHOTOS: MICHELLE GOLDCHAIN
www.ontaponline.com | OCTOBER 2016 | ON TAP
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CAPS’ Roster Deeper with
LARS ELLER On Board
By Chris Silva The Washington Capitals were absolute world-beaters in 2015-2016. That is, at least during the regular season when they amassed a whopping 120 points to easily capture the Presidents’ Trophy. Individual awards included Barry Trotz winning the Jack Adams as best coach and Braden Holtby the Vezina as top goaltender. But once again, the fans’ hopes were crushed as the squad failed to generate a deep playoff run. The second round proved to be their kryptonite, where they were vanquished by the eventual Stanley Cupwinning Pittsburgh Penguins. Back to the drawing board? Not quite. Management is bringing back nearly the same squad as last season. The only core player not returning is veteran winger Jason Chimera, who scored 20 goals last season but was signed by the New York Islanders. General Manager Brian MacLellan brought in two new forwards to strengthen the bottom six – Brett Connolly and Lars Eller.
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Photos: Courtesy of the Washington Capitals
Eller was acquired via trade July 1, with MacLellan sending two future secondround picks to the Montreal Canadiens. Eller is thought of as the perfect third-line center to complement their top two players down the middle: Nicklas Backstrom and Evgeny Kuznetsov. Like management, Eller also sees the wisdom in keeping this rendition of the Capitals intact. “When you’re that dominant in the regular season like [we] were last year, there’s probably not a lot of reasons to make big changes,” Eller says. “You already have a good core in place with a world-class goalie, a high-powered offense and a wellstructured defense. I think we have all those key ingredients in place to have a good playoff run.” Eller was part of a big playoff push with Montreal in 2013-2014 when they made it to the conference finals as one of four teams remaining in the format. They were beaten by the New York Rangers, just two
victories away from making it to the Stanley Cup finals. “You can learn a lot from your losses,” Eller says. “Hopefully, I can help us get over the hump.” Eller is an attractive pickup by the Capitals in that he is young – 27 years old – but has ample experience with eight seasons of pro hockey under his belt. He’s big at 6-foot-2 and 207 pounds, and a quick skater and effective penalty killer. The Caps are hoping Eller will also bring more offense to the third line, as he had 26 points last season with 13 goals and 13 assists.
“You already have a good core in place with a world-class goalie, a high-powered offense and a well-structured defense. I think we have all those key ingredients in place to have a good playoff run.”
“I think I’m a versatile player who can play a good two-way game,” Eller says. “I’ve certainly had some experience killing penalties over the years, but also at five-on-five and the power play as well.” It was good that Eller had the summer to absorb the news of the trade and prepare to move his wife, Julie, and young daughter to Washington after spending the past six years in Montreal. One of the first things he noticed was DC’s mugginess in the summer months. “It’s very hot,” he says with a laugh. “But it’s been good so far. I’m just starting to find my way around. It’s been nothing but positives.” Eller is not too acquainted with the Washington players just yet. He’s most familiar with forward T.J. Oshie, whom he knows from his first year with the St. Louis Blues. The team drafted him in the first round, 13th overall, in 2007. Oshie himself is a relatively new Cap, with one season in Washington on his resume, so he will likely help Eller get adjusted as the season progresses. Besides being a new Capital, Eller is also somewhat of a novelty league-wide, as he is one of just a handful of players that hails from Denmark. Frans Nielsen became the first Dane to play an NHL game when he suited up with the Islanders in 2007. Eller says he always recognized the Capitals as a dangerous opponent with a high-powered offense during his days with Montreal, and that he is excited about the prospect of the upcoming season. “Once Trotz took over, [we] took the structure up a notch or two. [We’re] a bit more disciplined and harder to play against. Before, it was all offense, but [we’ve] been harder to play against the past two years.” There’s no reason to believe Washington won’t be a dominant club again. Captain Alex Ovechkin netted 50 goals again last season. Backstrom had 70 points and Kuznetsov is a superstar in the making, registering a team-leading 77 points during a breakout season. The remaining forwards as well as the defense corps are more than solid. Goaltender Holtby is coming off of a sensational 48-win campaign. With the bottom six forwards strengthened and led by Eller, perhaps the Caps will have that extra jam they’ve been missing in the playoffs to finally make a deep run.
For more information on the 2016-2017 season, go to www.nhl.com/capitals/.
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Did You Know?
VIRGINIA Wine Month
, t year 2. Las han t more ses of ca 0 0 524,0 .3 million –6 d wine – were sol s e l t bot inia. in Virg
By Trent Johnson
5. Virginia’s Wine Board designate d viognier th e state’s official sig nature grape in 2 011.
imately 6. Approx s s of grape 8,682 ton e th duced in were pro r. a e y state last
7. Proh had a d ibition evasta impact on Virg ting inia’s w indust ry ine slow to , which was very recove r. A as 196 0, ther s recently e wasn single ’t a winery in the entire state. 8. Virgin ia winerie s attract ed mo re than 1 .6 milli on visitors in 2014 .
12. The rded first reco ent nal shipm internatio ginia ade in Vir of wine m 1622 when in occurred mple of ipped a sa the sh ts is n colo day, ondon. To wine to L arkets m to s ort state exp th and e like China U.K.
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4. Virginia wine The Norto n won “Best Red Wine” at th e 1873 Worl d’s Fair in Vienna, Au stria.
ON TAP | OCTOBER 2016 | www.ontaponline.com
t 10. The firs rd co re l a offici grape l fu ss e cc of su pean n from Euro 63 productio 17 reported in vines was rancis F r al Governo ey when Roy th d e nfirm Fauquier co g at the in were grow tation. Cleve Plan
1. Vi r is ho ginia m mor e e th to wine an 250 ries.
3. Act 12, a n early law p assed in Virginia in 1619, required e ach male colonist to plant and take care o f at least 10 grapev ines.
9. The e g Vir inia win s lo p m y industry e le ,7 4 00 peop more than t u o b utes a and contrib to the n $750 millio omy state econ ll a u ann y.
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Fun facts courtesy of the following articles: #1, #10: www.vivatysons.com/blog/2015/07/01/fun-facts-about-virginia-wine/ #2, #6, #11: www.richmond.com/food-drink/drinks/article_349755b9-ab12-5618-be2d-56888dfe524a.html #3, #5, #12: www.drinkwhatyoulike.wordpress.com/2013/10/06/ten-facts-virginians-may-not-know-about-virginia-wine/ #4: www.virginiawineschool.com/vawine/virginia-wine-history-quick-facts/ #7: http://blog.iwfs.org/2016/09/10-interesting-facts-about-the-wines-from-virginia/ #8: www.napavalleywineacademy.com/the-state-of-virginia-wine/ #9: www.richmond.com/opinion/their-opinion/guest-columnists/article_24428a89-4fad-5f10-a097-e517e77650f1.html
All Drink, Dine, Do event listings are provided by the venues hosting them.
EVERY FRIDAY, SATURDAY AND SUNDAY THROUGH SUNDAY, OCTOBER 30 Shocktober Open rain or shine through the month of October, Shocktober’s Paxton Manor opens its doors to those who are brave enough to walk the haunted halls and descend into the caverns of her basement. Shocktober: 601 Catoctin Cir. NE, DC; www.shocktober.org
MONDAY, OCTOBER 3 SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 6 Rise Up “Rise Up” features 72 works by 64 artists across the country, juried by NAWA. Founded in 1889 by five women artists who were barred from the National Academy of Design and the Society of American Artists, NAWA empowers, promotes, supports and encourages women artists in the United States. This exhibition is part of
“Shades of Blues,” Strathmore’s season-long celebration of blues music in its many forms through more than 25 events, including concerts, films, exhibitions, workshops and lectures. The Mansion at Strathmore: 10701 Rockville Pike, North Bethesda, MD; www.strathmore.org
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 6 SUNDAY, OCTOBER 9 Brooklyn Brewery Mash Tour A weekend-long festival exploring vibrant, urban communities in cities around the world, the Mash Tour is the largest international traveling festival of its kind, stopping in six U.S. cities as well as London, Stockholm and Paris in 2016. Brooklyn Brewery’s latest iteration of the Mash includes four new events, each one bringing an original, multi-dimensional experience through collaborations with DC-based tastemakers, musicians, chefs, artists and breweries. Events include FEAST,
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cantinamarina.com
600 Water St. SW | 202-554-8396 www.ontaponline.com | OctoBER 2016 | On Tap
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on the scene
For more photos from these And other events, visit the online gallery at www.ontaponline.com.
Drink | Dine | Do Beer Mansion, The Adams Morgan Immersion and FREE SHOW! Various times. Prices vary per event. Brooklyn Brewery Mash Tour: Various locations around the city; www.brooklynbrewerymash. com/washington-dc
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 7 Trevor Noah South African comedian, television and radio host, and actor Trevor Noah is the host of the popular satire news program The Daily Show, which he took over after Jon Stewart retired in 2015. He debuted in the U.S. on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno and has also appeared on the Late Show with David Letterman, becoming the first South African stand-up comedian to appear on either
late night show. In addition to his work on television, Noah frequently performs standup. In 2012, he presented his one-man show The Racist at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe to rave reviews. First show at 8 p.m., second at 10:30 p.m. $55-$125. The Kennedy Center: 2700 F St. NW, DC; www.kennedy-center.org Union Market Drive-In Series Presents Ghostbusters Come see the original Ghostbusters at Union Market as part of the drive-in movie series. The movie begins at 8 p.m. The price is $10 per car, and is free for walk-ups who can sit in the picnic area. Union Market: 1309 5th St. NE, DC; www. unionmarketdc.com
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 8 - SUNDAY, OCTOBER 9
What better place for fall’s Year of Beer than Tysons Biergarten? Guests enjoyed Oktoberfest beers from Spaten, Devils Backbone and Starr Hill, plus pretzels and live music. Photos: On Tap staff
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Taste of DC Attendees will be able to sample fare from more than 60 of the region’s most popular restaurants, taste over 50 brews in the biergarten, try more than 50 wines on the Taste of DC Wine Walk and enjoy nonstop entertainment on three different stages. Restaurants include Todd Gray’s Equinox, Mastro’s, Ben’s Chili Bowl, Carmine’s, District Doughnut, Sloppy Mama’s, Tortilla Coast, Texas Jack’s Barbecue, Capital Grill and Barrel & Crow. On Saturday, October 8, the sixth annual Ben’s Chili Bowl World Chili Eating Championship will bring defending champ Joey “Jaws” Chestnut back to challenge some of the country’s best competitive eaters for this exclusive-to-DC world champion title. The competition takes place on the Taste of DC mainstage. “This unique opportunity and [our celebration] being part of the DC culinary community is what keeps people coming back year after year,” said Steuart Martins, Taste of DC CEO. “From fine dining to fast casual, our vendors create pop-up versions of their restaurants.” In a new feature both days, MGM Lounge will feature appearances from celebrity chefs José Andrés and Bryan Voltaggio, whose restaurants will be part of the exciting new MGM National Harbor resort, opening late this year. Event runs 1-8 p.m. on Saturday and 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. on Sunday. Tickets range from $20-$80. Taste of DC: Various locations around the city; www.thetasteofdc.org
GRAB LIFE BY T H E RAILS Don’t Miss It! Grand Opening Event SATURDAY, OCT. 22 | 11AM-4PM
This is the day we’ve been waiting for. We’re opening the doors on our Barton and Oakley model homes, each with four finished levels and a private terrace. Get your first look at this exciting modern townhome community, right next to the Metro. Drive in or hop on the Red Line. We can’t wait to see you. A S H O RT WA L K FR O M G L EN M O NT M E TR O TOWN H O M E S F R O M TH E U P P E R $ 4 0 0 ’ S
W I N C H E S T E R H O M E S . C O M /O N TA P G M C
To RSVP or for more information, contact New Home Specialist Amy Dooling. (240) 517-1050 | NewHomes@whihomes.com GPS Address: 2426 Glenallan Avenue, Silver Spring, MD 20906
Winchester Homes, Inc., A Member of the TRI Pointe Group. | 2015 BUILDER OF THE YEAR1 AND 2014 DEVELOPER OF THE YEAR2. | Copyright ©2016 Winchester Homes Inc. All rights reserved. The prices of our homes, included features, plans, specifications, promotions/incentives, and available locations are subject to change without notice. Stated dimensions and square footage are approximate and should not be used as a representation of the home’s precise or actual size. Please see the actual purchase agreement for additional information, disclosures, and disclaimers relating to a home and its features. Any photographs or renderings in these materials are for illustrative purposes only and photographs or renderings of people do not depict racial preference. No information or material herein is to be construed to be an offer or solicitation for sale. Marketing promotions/incentives may be subject to conditions or restrictions. You must visit a Winchester Homes New Home Gallery to purchase a home. Please consult a New Home Advisor for specific price and other information for each community. A Broker/Agent must register their client in person on client’s first visit at each community for a Broker/Agent to receive a commission or referral fee. Our name and the logos contained herein are registered trademarks or trademarks of TRI Pointe Group, Inc. and/or its subsidiaries. Winchester is a registered trademark and is used with permission. MHBR No. 57. ©2016 Winchester Homes, Inc. 1 BUILDER Magazine named TRI Pointe Group the Builder of the Year in 2014. The Builder of the Year Award is BUILDER’S highest yearly honor. 2 Builder and Developer Magazine, a national homebuilding publication, named TRI Pointe the Developer of the Year in 2014.
DRINK | DINE | DO
SUNDAYS, OCTOBER 9-30 SATURDAY, OCTOBER 8
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 7 SATURDAY, OCTOBER 8 ATM Expo Following the Army Ten-Miler race, come on down to the ATM Expo at the DC Armory. The two-day ATM Expo has great deals on clothing, shoes, accessories and other hot items. Performances by The Old Guard Drill Team and Fife and Drum Corps take place throughout the day. DC Armory: 2001 E. Capitol St. SE, DC; www.armytenmiler.com
City of Fairfax Fall Festival Enjoy this family-friendly, exciting street festival in the heart of the City of Fairfax. There will be more than 400 juried crafters, a beer garden and food vendors who will be selling their wares. Activities include children’s activities, Touch-a-Truck, the All-American Lumberjack Show, amusement rides, and three stages of music and entertainment for all ages. 10 a.m. - 8:30 p.m. Free admission. In case of rain, the evening will take place on October 9. Old Town Square in Fairfax: 3999 University Dr. Fairfax, VA; www.fairfaxva.gov
Baltimore
CRAFT BEER Festival
SAT, OCT 22
CANTON WATERFRONT
PARK / BALTIMORE
Sehkraft Haus Tailgate Party Starting on the first Sunday of the NFL season and continuing throughout the rest of the season, Sehkraft hosts a tailgate party buffet every Sunday. Whether you’re a football fan or not, this buffet is massive with wings, brisket, pulled pork, pretzel rolls, tacos, sliders, cheese fries, mac and cheese, and more. Not to mention, you’ll certainly have an expansive selection of beers to choose from to wash it all down with. 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Prices to be determined. Sehkraft Brewing: 925 N. Garfield St. Arlington, VA; www.sehkraftbrewing.com
BAM BUS
ON TAP | OCTOBER 2016 | www.ontaponline.com
Cantina Marina Super Nacho Eating Contest Roll up your sleeves and dig into DC’s tastiest Columbus Day tradition. It’s the fourth annual Cantina Marina Super Nacho Eating Contest. One big platter of food, one goal – beat your competition by eating the most in 10 minutes. Win great prizes and support your local firefighters. Why not vie for bragging rights by eating a plate of nachos worth $30? Contestants must report to Cantina Marina by 1 p.m. The event begins at 2 p.m. Entry fee $25; all proceeds donated to DC Firefighters Burn Foundation. Cantina Marina: 600 Water St. SW, DC; www.cantinamarina.com
featuring 40+ MARYLAND CRAFT BREWERIES from all across the state
T $75P/R Pass incl. VI
[ DEPARTING FROM ] BEL AIR: Independent FREDERICK: Barley & Hops LAUREL: Jailbreak OWINGS: Scorpion PRINCE FREDERICK: Mully’s SILVER SPRING: Denizens
BALTIMORECRAFTBEERFESTIVAL.COM 30
MONDAY, OCTOBER 10
HOMEBREW COMPETITION
Enter brews or get tix to taste!
LOCAL FOOD TRUCKS OYSTER BAR
PUMPKIN Festival
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The Shops at Avenir Place
M
Prosperity Avenue Gallows Road
Next to Dunn Loring Metro Station
Thursday, October 20, 5-8 PM
495
Live Music Beer Garden Games Pumpkin Decorating
FREE Admission $
The Shops at Avenir Place Dunn Loring Gallows Road & Avenir Place | Vienna, VA 22180
10 Beer Garden Donation,
www.avenirfest.com must be 21+ to drink alcohol
DRINK | DINE | DO SATURDAY, OCTOBER 8 Dutch Treats: Heirloom Recipes from Farmhouse Kitchens Internationally-known food historian Dr. William Woyes Weaver will present a richly photographed gastronomical journey into the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch food traditions at this luncheon, including shoofly cake, New Year’s pretzels and the original snickerdoodles. He will shine a much-anticipated light on the vast diversity of authentic baked goods, festive breads and pastries that we call Pennsylvania Dutch (named for German-speaking immigrants who settled there starting in the late 1600s). He will also autograph copies of his newest book, Dutch Treats: Heirloom Recipes from Farmhouse Kitchens, which will be available for purchase at the luncheon. 1-3 p.m. $52. Old Europe Restaurant: 2434 Wisconsin Ave. NW, DC; www.old-europe.com
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 13 ¡Viva Cesar, Viva Kennedy! The intersection of the work and ideals of Cesar Chavez and John F. Kennedy in the fight for civil rights and social justice are explored in this evening of spoken word, theater, music, visual projections of historic photographs and panel discussion. Hosted by entertainment professional and activist Dan Guerrero, the evening begins with a program of spoken word, scenes featuring El Teatro Campesino actors, visual projections of historic photographs and panel discussions. Then, following a brief intermission, iconic Mexican singer Eugenia León and Mexican-American band La Marisoul y La Santa Cecilia take the stage to explore the evening’s themes through music. Show begins at 8 p.m. Tickets cost $10-$39. The Kennedy Center: 2700 F St. NW, DC; www.kennedy-center.org
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 14 THURSDAY, OCTOBER 13 Devils Backbone & Pinstripes Four-Course Beer Dinner A Devils Backbone Brewing Company expert and Pinstripes’ chef will lead guests through an interactive dinner and discussion demonstrating how each pairing enhances the dining experience. Each course is paired with a Devils Backbone beer. 7-10 p.m. Tickets cost $45. Pinstripes: 1064 Wisconsin Ave. NW, DC; www.pinstripes.com
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#DineForTheWorld for World Food Day José Andrés and 100 top restaurants want you to #DineForTheWorld for World Food Day. Restaurants from DC, New York, L.A., San Francisco, Chicago and more will donate 10 percent of sales for World Food Day to support Chef José Andrés’ nonprofit, World Central Kitchen. World Food Day is sponsored by the restaurant reservation app, RESY, and the chef-driven restaurant recommendation website ChefsFeed. As the leading
ON TAP | OCTOBER 2016 | www.ontaponline.com
chef-powered nonprofit, World Central Kitchen is working together with ChefsFeed, the only chef-powered media, to curate three top city guides for World Food Day. World Food Day: Various locations around the city; www.worldcentralkitchen.org/ world-food-day
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 15 Rifting on the Legacy of the Black Arts Movement A moderated artist’s talk featuring members of the Delusions of Grandeur Artists Collective, this event is held in conjunction with the exhibition “It Takes a Nation,” on view through October 23 at the Alper Initiative in the American University Museum. Washington artists respond to the graphics of Black Panther artist Emory Douglas with sculpture, paintings, photography and multimedia installations. 2-3:30 p.m. Free admission, but registration is required. American University Museum at the Katzen Arts Center: 4400 Massachusetts Ave. NW, DC; www.american.edu/cas/ museum
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 16 The Artists’ and Writers’ Cookbook Join for a literary feast with Natalie Eve Garrett, author of The Artists’ and Writers’ Cookbook: A Collection of Stories with Recipes. The cookbook is full of recipes inspired by the food stories of 76 beloved contemporary artists and writers. Petworth Citizen Chef Jerry Zawacki will base many dishes on the book, but we couldn't resist finding a few of our favorite literary food scenes to inspire some of the dishes. Food, wine and a signed copy of the book are included. Vegetarian meals possible upon request. 7-9 p.m. Tickets cost $40-$60. Third Floor: 4200 9th St. NW, DC; www.facebook.com/ ThirdFloorDC
THROUGH SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 19 Synthetic Transformations The Greater Reston Arts Center proudly presents “Synthetic Transformations” by New York-based artist Shih Chieh Huang, a former Smithsonian artist research fellow. This exhibit presents an installation featuring elements using materials such as LED lights, motion sensors, computer parts, screens and even plastic bags. The items form a magical environment with movements, sounds and illumination. “It represented a number of opportunities: to completely transform the GRACE gallery into a ‘black box’ setting, show work created with electronic media and unorthodox materials and draw in audiences who may not consider themselves ‘art people,’” says Erica Harrison, GRACE associate curator and festival director. The exhibition is ongoing, and folks can expect a rousingly entertaining experiment. “We hope viewers will experience the gallery as a magical, stimulating environment, and will leave the show inspired by the artist’s transformative use of otherwise mundane materials,” Harrison says. GRACE is open from 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. on Tuesdays through Saturdays. Greater Reston Arts Center: 12001 Market St. #103, Reston, VA; www.restonarts.org
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HAPPY HOUR Monday - Friday, 4-7pm $5 local drafts, select wines
FADÓ BY NIGHT
Monday night Trivia at 8pm with DJ Pieman Wednesdays Crafty Hour Thursdays Live music featuring modern and Celtic rock. Fridays DJ Night Saturdays Live bands for a craicing good time. Visit our website for Late Night Drink Specials and music lineup. www.fadoirishpub.com/washington
Brunch Saturday and Sunday until 2pm featuring Bottomless mimosas and bloody marys
SUPER HERO HALLOWEEN PARTY 10/29
Featuring music by 7 Deadlies. Costume Contest! 1st, 2nd & 3rd Place Prizes. First Place $250 CASH!
FADOIRISHPUB.COM
808 7TH ST | DC | 202.789.0066 | GALLERY PLACE METRO Please drink responsibly.
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ON TAP | OCTOBER 2016 | www.ontaponline.com
DRINK | DINE | DO TUESDAY, OCTOBER 18 Two Faces Comedy Series at President Lincoln’s Cottage Drawing inspiration from Abraham Lincoln’s legendary humor and self-deprecation, President Lincoln’s Cottage and The DC Improv are partnering to present Two Faces Comedy, the first comedy series performed at the Cottage. There will be a cash bar with drinks available for $5. 7:30-9 p.m. Tickets cost $5. President Lincoln’s Cottage: 140 Rock Creek Church Rd. NW, DC; www.lincolncottage.org Volkfest DC Join Gourmet Symphony for an Oktoberfest celebration featuring German-style fair foods, a new festbier from Atlas Brew Works and festive music performed by members of Barclay Brass. Guests are encouraged to wear lederhosen, tracht or other German traditional attire for a chance to win a special prize in the costume contest. The all-inclusive tickets include passed small plates, a pretzel station, festbier tastings, live chamber music and an entry to the costume contest. 6-8 p.m. Tickets cost $49. Shaw’s Tavern: 520 Florida Ave. NW, DC; www.gourmetsymphony.org
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 22 Baltimore Craft Beer Festival Held at the beautiful Canton Waterfront Park in downtown Baltimore, this festival will feature the widest selection of Maryland craft breweries in the state and a homebrew competition sponsored by Nepenthe Homebrew where attendees have the opportunity to judge their favorites. Boasting all of the best parts of Baltimore, the event includes live bands, local food trucks, crafts, games and more. 12-6 p.m. Tickets range from $35$65. Canton Waterfront Park: 3001 Boston St. Baltimore, MD; www. baltimorecraftbeerfestival.com Indian, Latin, social and modern dance forms. Enjoy participatory opportunities in which you can experience dance as a system of communication – one that transcends boundaries, cultures and time. Various times. Atlas Performing Arts Center: 1333 H St. NE, DC; www.dakshina.org
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21 SUNDAY, OCTOBER 23
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 22
Fall Festival of Indian Arts International guest artists Indira Kadambi, Rehan Bashir and Ashwati Nair will join Dakshina/ Daniel Phoenix Singh Dance Company for DC’s signature Fall Festival of Indian Arts. Dakshina/Daniel Phoenix Singh Dance Company offers artists and audiences the unique opportunity to experience dance as a movement that links the arts, cultures and social causes. Dakshina means “offering” in Sanskrit. The company explores the definition of dance within the U.S. and connects it to
Blood and Guts Run The Blood and Guts Run is the Halloween experience that you do not want to miss. This is not your ordinary 5K, as you will dodge, jump, climb and crawl your way through wild obstacles to avoid hordes of zombies. Upon completion, you will receive a custom medal and access to the live DJ dance party. Participants will also have access to food trucks, a beer garden, costume competitions and more. Waves are at 9:30 a.m., 10 a.m., 10:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. Registration costs $35.
Ale with Natural Apple Flavor Great Beer Great Responsibility. ©2016 Redd’s Brewing CO., Milwaukee, WI
on the scene
For more photos from these And other events, visit the online gallery at www.ontaponline.com.
Drink | Dine | Do Bull Run Regional Park: 7700 Bull Run Dr. Centreville, VA; www.bloodandguts.com Pumpkin Palooza For this pumpkin-filled event, the Gangplank Park at District Wharf will be transformed. This event includes a seasonal beer garden and games, plus pumpkin bowling on the official Wharf Alley with 50 glorious feet of Astroturf complete with a 17foot video wall. Chow down in the pumpkin pie-eating contest, and bring your best dressed pet for the pet costume contest. Cash prizes will be offered for all contests. Plus, enjoy live music from Wil Gravatt and a pumpkin contest play-by-play from DJ Stacks. 1-4 p.m. Free to attend. Gangplank Park: 600 Water St. SW, Washington, DC; www.wharfdc.com Raven’s Night: Celestial Bodies 2016 Raven’s Night, Metro DC’s most unique, hedonistic and artistic Halloween event, ushers in the season on October 22 at The Birchmere. Now in its fifth year, this sensational modern take on the traditional masquerade ball celebrates every devilish trick and sexy treat of Halloween. The theme for 2016 is “Celestial Bodies.” It includes three distinct events woven into one: mesmerizing world-class dance performances at the Cabaret Macabre; a dinner concert featuring live music; and a pre-show event combining an alternative World’s Fairstyle exposition and sideshow, including Tarot card readings, magic and belly dancing. Event starts at 7:30 p.m. Tickets cost $25. The Birchmere: 3701 Mt. Vernon Ave. Alexandria, VA; www.birchmere.com
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 27 Guests enjoyed a fun celebration at the Park Potomac Fall Festival with food from restaurants and food trucks, local wine and beer samplings, and live music from Darcy Dawn. Photos: Mark Van Bergh
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HeART & Sole at Dock5 at Union Market Don’t miss the second annual HeART & Sole event at one of
the city’s most exciting venues, Dock5 at Union Market. Sample stylish food and drinks created by star chefs. Mingle with local celebrities while enjoying live music, a sensational silent auction and a professional art show. Taste the sweet designs of renowned pastry chefs. Your ticket price provides shoes, clothes and food for Central Union Mission’s needy clients. VIP tickets includes private cooking demonstrations and an opportunity to mingle with chefs in the VIP lounge, starting at 6 p.m. Event runs from 7-10 p.m. Tickets cost $55-$150. Dock5 at Union Market: 1309 5th St. NE, DC; www.unionmarketdc.com
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 28 Halloween Murder Mystery Dinner This is every detective’s fantasy come true – an opportunity for people with a passion for murder mysteries, slippery red herrings, diabolical clues and ingenious detective work to get plunked smack dab in the middle of a hilarious homicide investigation. Enjoy the atmosphere and fabulous cuisine of Maggiano’s Little Italy, but remember even you could become the leading suspect. Ticket price includes a three-course, family-style dinner, one glass of house wine, soda, coffee, or tea, and the show. There will be a cash-only bar available for additional alcoholic beverages. 7-10 p.m. Tickets cost $65. Maggiano's Little Italy Chevy Chase: 5333 Wisconsin Ave. NW, DC; www.maggianos.com Night of the Living Zoo Prepare to witness death defying acts and amazing oddities at Friends of the National Zoo's annual adults-only Halloween party, Night of the Living Zoo. Ghouls and goblins will enjoy craft beer, fare from popular DC food trucks, a spooktacular costume contest and performance artists while dancing to music at the DJ
dance party. It’s a wicked night of fun that would be scary to miss. 6:30-10 p.m. Tickets cost $30-$80. Smithsonian National Zoological Park: 3001 Connecticut Ave. NW, DC; www.nationalzoo.si.edu
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 29 Blackwall Hitch Halloween Costume Tap Takeover Guests can enjoy the spooky holiday fun with a tap takeover from South Street Brewery in Charlottesville, Va. highlighting fall and pumpkin-themed beers, as well as a costume contest which will be held from 9-11 p.m. Dante Coley, brewery representative from South Street brewery, and Patricia Washington from Visit Alexandria will be in attendance to judge costumes and present awards for Best Costume, Best NauticallyThemed and Best Couple. Don’t miss the opportunity to show your creativity and win a two-for-one brunch certificate.
Beers are priced at $7 per draft. 9 p.m. - 2 a.m. Blackwall Hitch: 5 Cameron St. Alexandria, VA; www.theblackwallhitch.com Halloween Crawl DC Halloween Crawl DC celebrates the scariest time of the year. Gather your favorite ghouls and goblins and get ready to bar hop through Dupont’s most popular bars for a full day and night of drinking! The specials end at 7:30 p.m., but the party goes on all night. Wear your spookiest, scariest and most creative costume as there will be a contest for participants. Crawl starts at noon. Tickets cost $40. Registration takes place at Blackfinn DC and The Front Page DC. Blackfinn DC: 1620 I St. NW, DC and The Front Page DC: 1333 New Hampshire Ave. NW, DC: www.dchalloweencrawl.com Nightmare on M Street Bar Crawl Don’t be fooled by other ghouls and goblins because after 18
years, Nightmare On M Street presented by Lindy Promotions is still the ghostess with the mostest – immortalized not only as the hottest Halloween celebration but furthermore, the year’s premier bar crawl event. While true creatures of the night may not creep out of hiding until the moonlight shines, this Halloween celebration kicks off early, inviting DC’s baddest witches to crawl early and stay late. Vampires don’t need sleep, after all. 12-7:30 p.m. General admission is $15; register at James Hoban’s. James Hoban’s: 1 Dupont Cir. NW, DC; www.lindypromo.com Rock the Core Cider Festival A celebration of cider, Rock the Core transports the orchard to your mug with over 30 ciders and 20 beers offered onsite. Sip on a Granny Smith, swig a sweet Golden Russet, and discover untapped apple flavors while savoring local eats and live entertainment. The following is
included in a ticket: unlimited tastings of over 30 ciders and 20 beers, lawn games and live entertainment. The Yards Parking Lot: 1300 1st St. SE, DC; www.capitolriverfront.org/yardspark
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 30 Taste on Wheels Taste on Wheels, presented by Taste of DC, is a food truck event series celebrating the vibrant food truck scene in the MidAtlantic. Each event will have a host of trucks, and each will feature a signature taste item priced $3 or under. Every general admission attendee will receive a drink ticket with their admission, and bottomless drinks ticket holders will receive unlimited pours of beer, wine and mimosas. 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Tickets cost $3-$19. The Yards Parking Lot: 1300 1st St. SE, DC; www. capitolriverfront.org/yards-park
www.ontaponline.com | OctoBER 2016 | On Tap
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New | Notable | No Longer bar) are opening a second restaurant, offering “comfort food with an international twist.” Inspired by years of international travel, the duo decided to highlight their favorite dishes from countries they’ve visited as well as classics that everyone loves. The Dish and Dram is one of Kensington’s only restaurants with a full beer, wine and liquor license, including an expansive selection of Irish and Scotch whiskies. Locals can lounge in the espresso and organic tea bar or dig in for a meal – Polin recommends the brisket and sausage, smoked tomatoes stuffed with feta, olives, rice and almonds, or the Niçoise salad served with a seared tuna loin, plus an ice cream sundae with bourbon pecan sauce and candied bacon for dessert. The Dish and Dram: 10301 Kensington Pkwy. Kensington, MD; www.thedishanddram.com
Cocktails at Ben’s Upstairs
By Monica Alford On Tap keeps locals in the know about the latest and greatest food and drink locales around town, our top foodie picks for the month, and spots that have recently closed their doors. Read on to get the inside scoop on what’s new, notable and no longer in the DC area.
NEW Ben’s Upstairs Open: September 17 Location: H Street Lowdown: Southern meets Caribbean From the owners of Ben’s Chili Bowl and Ben’s Next Door comes this restaurant, bar and tropical rooftop in the H Street Corridor with a flavorful concept drawing on the owners’ Caribbean and Southern roots, according to co-owner Nizam B. Ali (whose parents Ben and Virginia have been at the helm of the original Ben’s for 58 years). Current customer faves include the shrimp and grits (sautéed shrimp served with grits and topped with a Creole-based broth, the chef’s aromatic herbs and sautéed tomatoes) and the mashed yucca stuffed with gouda cheese and drizzled with the chef’s guava sauce. On the cocktail front, Ben’s Upstairs staff recommend Carl’s Old Fashioned, made with dark rum rather than bourbon for a bit of Caribbean flair. Ben’s Upstairs: 1001 H St. NE, DC; www.bensupstairs.com
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Photo: Courtesy of Ben’s Upstairs
Dirty Habit Open: October 1 Location: Penn Quarter Lowdown: Trendy cocktails If you were one of the many bummed about Poste closing earlier this year, you’ll be happy to know that the replacement restaurant and bar nestled inside Hotel Monaco’s downtown location is about to open. Dirty Habit’s Head Bartender Sarah Ruiz says she’s stoked to be in DC, and has worked hard to create a bar menu for Washingtonians that will satisfy their thirst for progressive cocktails. The certified sommelier chats about her Sherry Tonic, highlighting “a dry and nutty Amontillado that has hints of bright orange zest with a complimentary burnt orange syrup to add some richness,” and Prickly Position, combining “sotol, mezcal and nopal as a fresh and incredibly green cocktail.” Ruiz says whether it’s an obscure Greek wine or ingredients sourced from Chef Kyoo’s Korean community, “we are striving to provide food and drinks that will not only please our guests, but also keep us excited in our industry.” Dirty Habit: 555 8th St. NW, DC; www.dirtyhabitdc.com
The Dish and Dram Open: Late October Location: Kensington Lowdown: RAMMY Award-winning fare Zena Polin and Jerry Hollinger of Silver Spring’s Daily Dish (known for its RAMMY Award-winning brunch and Bloody Mary
HalfSmoke Open: October 4 Location: Shaw Lowdown: Sausage-centric comfort food Andre McCain says he developed the concept for a gourmet sausage restaurant based on the market need for a premium spot focused on the sausage product, noting that sausage/hot dog chains have not typically offered chef-driven products that are sustainably sourced or of a farmto-table nature in the past. HalfSmoke’s owner is switching things up with his new eatery, with a host of comfort foodinspired options like tater tots, mac and cheese balls, and funnel cakes on the menu. “The concept of HalfSmoke is to offer a modern spin on classic American dishes that evoke a sense of nostalgia and [remind us of] the freedom and fun of our childhoods,” he says. He even made sure his restaurant was designed to mimic the layout of a single-family home, creating a “comfortable dining environment that caters to a wide audience across multiple meal occasions.” Those that prefer to drink their calories can choose from boozy milkshakes, house-made craft cocktails with wood-grilled fruit garnishes, or champagne and wine on tap. HalfSmoke: 651 Florida Ave. NW, DC; www.halfsmoke.com
Muse Paintbar Open: September 7 Location: Mosaic District Lowdown: Dining for multitaskers Muse Paintbar comes to NoVA’s booming Mosaic District, complete with murals by
local artists including a giant rendition of Van Gogh’s “Starry Night” on the interior. Customers can sign up for painting classes to take while enjoying a bite to eat or a libation, including couples’ night, paint your pet, family day, and glassware or masterpiece paintings. Cofounder Stan Fitch says Muse’s new location offers a rotating list of 12 beers and 12 wines, updated based on customer requests, and bite-sized fare that makes it easy to hold a paint brush in one hand and pop a snack with the other (spinach and feta triangles, beef hot dogs in pastry puffs, and mozzarella sticks, to name a few). Muse Paintbar: 2920 District Ave. #100, Fairfax, VA; www.musepaintbar.com
Mythology Restaurant & Lore Lounge Open: Mid-September Location: H Street Lowdown: A dose of whimsy Owner Todd Luongo describes his new restaurant as “contemporary with a healthy dose of whimsy,” noting several favorite mythical libations on the menu including Mercury’s Vespa (vodka, gin, prosecco, grapefruit and Italian honey) and the perfect-for-autumn Blue Men of the Minch (Laphroaig 10 Year, English breakfast tea and condensed milk). Mythology’s eclectic menu features a dozen types of frite dishes – dusted or smothered – from sushi-flavored to bulgogi beef, kimchi and red chili aioli, plus a range of entrees. Luongo says But I’m A Vegetarian (curried chickpea ragout, stewed eggplant and lemon yogurt) has been a standout dish thus far for vegetarians and meat eaters alike. Mythology Restaurant & Lore Lounge: 816 H St. NE, DC; www.mythology-lore.com
Notable Bar Pilar’s Election Cocktails Dates: Through Election Day Location: 14th Street Lowdown: A toast to campaigns past Bar Pilar and The Weekly Standard are joining forces to bring cocktails focused around elections of the past to the public, leading up to this most historic and colorful presidential election. The four cocktails featured are The Harrison 2.0, Taft Re-elected, Remember the Maine, to Hell with Spain and Split the Party. Bar Pilar’s GM, Stephanie Juen, says the latter (inspired by the 1912 election when Teddy Roosevelt created the Progressive Party, or “Bull Moose Party,” after losing the Republican nomination), is one-half sweet vermouth, Plymouth gin, and orange and angostura bitters and one-half a mini-portion of Bar Pilar’s housemade tonic and gin. Locals can also participate in the election cocktail recipe contest and
hang for presidential debate viewing parties, complete with debate bingo. Bar Pilar: 1833 14th St. NW, DC; www.barpilar.com
Central Michel Richard Hosts The Shaw Bijou Pop-up Bar Dates: October 6 and 7 Location: Penn Quarter Lowdown: The Shaw Bijou preview Before former Top Chef contestant Chef Kwame Onwuachi’s The Shaw Bijou opens in Shaw on November 1, Central Michel Richard will host a pop-up bar to highlight some of the restaurant’s creative takes on existing cocktails. The pop-up marks a homecoming for The Shaw Bijou’s head bartender Ben Long, who was one of the first bartenders hired at Central Michel Richard in 2007. Long will serve the Enzoni, a muddled grape nontraditional sour with Campari and pink gin; the Cloak and Dagger daiquiri with French-aged rum; the Pear Pan-Americano served with pear brandy (the late Richard’s favorite) instead of pisco; and the Tritter Rickey, served with a rinse of absinthe and mint. Long says The Shaw Bijou takes a humble approach to cocktails. “We take great care in making them something simple and with only a few ingredients, but difficult to reproduce consistently and at optimal temperature and dilution.” Long’s tips will be donated to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, “a charity near and dear to Michel.” Central Michel Richard: 1001 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, DC; www.centralmichelrichard.com
Linganore Winecellars Celebrates 40 Years Dates: Fall 2016 Location: Mt. Airy Lowdown: Four decades of excellence Plan a day trip to this family-owned vineyard and winery in Mt. Airy, Md. that just celebrated its 40th anniversary. Linganore specializes in dry and sweet reds and whites, so get out your tasting glass and sample their lineup of vino. Linganore Winecellars: 13601 Glissans Mill Rd. Mt Airy, MD; www.linganorewines.com
Now Open DC Aperto
2013 I St. NW, DC; www.apertodc.com
Biryani Exchange
2620 Georgia Ave. NW, DC
BLT Prime
625 I St. NW, DC; www.trumphotels.com
Bullfrog Bagels
317 7th St. SE, DC; www.bullfrogbagels.com
Chix 1210 Half St. SE, DC; www.chixdc.com
Compass Coffee
1776 Eye St. NW, DC; www.compasscoffee.com
Insomnia Cookies
2318 18th St. NW, DC; www.insomniacookies.com
Little Coco’s
3907 14th St. NW, DC; www.facebook.com/littlecocosdc/
Pie360
655 K St. NW, DC; www.pie360.net
Quara
2406 18th St. NW, DC; www.quaraethiopianrestaurant.com
South Block Juice Company 1309 5th St. NE, DC; www.southblockjuice.com
Union Drinkery 3216 Georgia Ave. NW, DC; www. uniondrinkery.com
Virginia Burger Fi
111 N. Pitt St. Alexandria, VA; www.burgerfi.com
El Centro D.F.
NO LONGER Alphonse Italian Market & Osteria on U Street Bistro d’Oc in Penn Quarter Cafe Paradiso in Woodley Park China Garden in Arlington Dickson on U Street II Forno in Arlington MET in Bethesda My Way Gourmet in Dupont Nonna’s Kitchen on U Street Panache in Dupont Circle Pinkberry in Georgetown
Reagan National Airport, Arlington, VA; www.richardsandoval.com/elcentrodf/
The Italian Place
621 Wythe St. Alexandria, VA; www.theitalianplaceofoldtown.com
Nando’s Peri-Peri
4401 Wilson Blvd. Arlington, VA; www.nandosperiperi.com
Water’s Edge Brewery
12425 Dillingham Sq. Lake Ridge, VA; www.watersendbrewery.com
www.ontaponline.com | OctoBER 2016 | On Tap
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By Eric Kozlik Autumn in the District means many things: golden weather, a welcome ebb in tourist traffic, fantasy football, and of course, the return of our dear friends, Master Pumpkin and Madam Spice. You might feel them watching you on that first morning you reach for a sweater, or hear their voices in the shuffle of fallen leaves underfoot. He is the benevolent ghost of your fondest fall memories. She is the nutmeg-dusted harbinger of lattés and baked goods that have not yet come to pass. If nothing else can be said of pumpkin and spice, it is that they are a divisive combo. You’re either the type who likes to ride their seasonal wave of nostalgia (and ride it hard), or the type who likes to rail against them. One more thing is becoming increasingly true: it’s not just the coffee mega-chains who are pandering to the pumpkin flavor craze – so are brewers. Between mid-September and mid-November, walk into any store with a decent beer selection, and you’ll find yourself promptly end-capped by pumpkin-flavored six-packs and big bottles, all sporting russet, orange and gold (the red, white and blue of autumn). For the pro-pumpkin lobby, this is cause for great rejoicing and many gleeful selfies. After all, when else can you scratch both the beer and the pumpkin itch with one deliciously festive beverage?
Carrot If you’re in Maryland, Jailbreak Brewing Company in Laurel has you covered with their Carrot Conspiracy, an ale made with roasted carrots and fall spices. This effort will be available throughout the DMV area through late October. Stop by Old Line Fine Wine, Spirits & Bistro in Beltsville to sample this and other beers from Jailbreak.
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ON TAP | OCTOBER 2016 | www.ontaponline.com
For the rest of us, these are grim times indeed. Personally, I have nothing against pumpkin beers. At least not in practice. They are generally sweet, which is a taste that human beings are predisposed to crave, especially as we settle into the autumn calorie rut that prepares us mammals for the cold. Also, unlike the darker, more syrupy stouts that reign over the depths of winter, most good pumpkin beers offer a little acidity to help lift the mellow sweetness of the pumpkin into the slight mouth-burn generated by the “spice” flavors and the beer’s natural carbonation. And you know what? After a summer of hoppy, citrus-forward ales, a darker, less bitter brew can be a welcome change of pace. It’s the principle where I generally get hung up, though. With all these pumpkin beers crawling out of the woodwork, it’s harder for the average consumer to trust that brewers are making them in good faith – that the flavor experience is more important to them than tapping a frenzied (and more importantly, seasonal) customer base ready to throw money at anything pumpkin. So, whether you’re like me and need to take a step back from the gourd-themed mania to avoid becoming jaded, or you’re simply looking for a bit more variety in your fall beer lineup, here are a few flavors that you can turn to for relief.
Squash
Maple
The country pumpkin’s curvy cousin, butternut squash has been used to make some unique autumn brews. If you’re visiting Loudoun County, be sure to stop by Crooked Run Brewing in Leesburg and sample their Jake-O-Lantern ale, brewed with locally-grown butternut squash. This is a small-batch affair, so your best bet to snag a pint is to swing by their highly-rated nanobrewery. But really, who needs an excuse for a day trip out to Virginia when fall weather sets in?
Maple leaves are some of the best and brightest for fall foliage gazing, and, as luck would have it, maple sugar is also great for brewing. Saucony Creek out of Kutztown, Pa. makes Maple Mistress, a fall ale brewed with maple syrup, butternut squash and plenty of warm, dark spices. There is also some pumpkin present, but it’s not the star of the show. This intriguing beer is scheduled to hit the taps at Iron Horse Taproom and Nanny O’Briens this month.
Cranberry As the weather gets cold, your impulse might be to migrate to darker, heavier brews. But what if that’s not your thing? Cranberry beers to the rescue. The fall offering from local brewery 3 Stars is Nectar of the Bogs, a light, bright cranberry saison that’s absolutely perfect for those sun-splashed autumn days when you’d feel weird drinking a brown ale or a porter. This brew will be available in bottles, cans and on tap throughout October, so be sure to head to your DC neighborhood beer outlet or visit the 3 Stars tasting room just over the line from Takoma Park to get your fix.
Navy Yard
October BREWERY EVENTS Smoky Smoky beers are a personal favorite of mine when it comes to keeping the autumn theme without falling into step with the pumpkin heads, offering a robust and unique flavor experience. Craft giant Stone Brewing offers a smoked porter, but if that sounds a little dark for your taste, then why not try the traditional German-smoked Märzen Rauchbier? This style is intensely smoky, but it has the body, hops and acidity to support such a powerful flavor. One of the more popular brands is Aecht Schlenkerla, and I found mine at Craft Beer Cellar on H Street.
Aecht Schlenkerla
• Craft Beer Cellar DC: 301 H St. NE, DC; www.dc.craftbeercellar.com
Carrot Conspiracy
• Old Line Fine Wine Spirits & Bistro: 11011 Baltimore Ave. Beltsville, MD; www. oldlinewine.com • Beer and liquor stores throughout the DMV
Jake-O-Lantern Ale
• Crooked Run Brewing: 205 Harrison St. SE, Leesburg, VA; www.crookedrunbrewing.com
10/5
BREWERY TOURS & KELLERBIER TASTING 5:30PM - 7:00PM
Join Travis for a Brewery Tour & a Kellerbier tasting
RASBERRY WEISS HAPPY HOUR 10/12 5:30 - 7:30
PM PM Come in to enjoy a Rasberry Weis for a charity fundraiser. Wear your pink it is a pink out Happy Hour!
HARVEST IPA TAPPING 10/19 5:30 - 7:30
PM PM All the components of an IPA you love blended with a touch of harvest. Come enjoy a cold one today!
STOUT AND CHOCOLATE PAIRING 10/26 5:30 - 7:00
PM PM Deep Stout Tapping and Chocolate Pairing. Nothing goes better with chocolate than a stout beer!
Maple Mistress
• Iron Horse Taproom: 507 7th St. NW, DC; www.ironhorsedc.com • Nanny O’Briens: 3319 Connecticut Ave. NW, DC; www.nannyobriens.com
Nectar of the Bogs
• 3 Stars Brewing Company: 6400 Chillum Pl. NW, DC; www.3starsbrewing.com • Grocery and liquor stores throughout Washington, DC www.ontaponline.com | OctoBER 2016 | On Tap
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The Bierdo “Lets Get Beer’d!” The Bierdo Gets Weird in Portland
The Best of the Rest
of Portland Baerlic Brewing Company’s Delorean, 7 percent: An American pale wheat beer? Yup, and a dank citrus hop bomb as well. Drank like a DIPA. I had several. Thank God breweries have to serve food in Portland. Unfortunately, they also do 16 (not 12) oz. pours in Oregon.
Widmer Brothers Brewing
Photo: Nick Hardt
By Nick Hardt By now you've probably all seen the TV show Portlandia, and folks let me tell you, it's not far off on the level of weirdness I found in Oregon. Between the guy downtown on the unicycle in a pickle suit with the flame thrower ripping gnarly AC/DC bagpipe covers to the half-naked painted woman I found chanting at the new moon on my roof at 3 a.m. (she turned out to be a belly dancer who also had pythons in her bathtub upstairs), it was quite the trip. But Portland in all its uniqueness is very much an awesome place to be alive, especially if you're a beer lover. They had 84 breweries in town, and I did my best to hit as many as possible. For those of you on the East Coast, you may have heard of Oregon’s Rogue Ales and Deschutes Brewery, but downtown Portland is where the magic happens at Widmer Brothers Brewing – a brewery so large that it may as well be the adult beer version of Willy Wonka's chocolate factory. It's a great place to start planning your beer adventures, and while it's definitely the biggest and most well-known brewery in town, I bet you didn't know about its 10-barrel innovation brewhouse for beer experiments. I've been sworn to secrecy (like the everlasting gobstopper) about the small-batch treats you can only taste on premise. However, here are few tasty highlights they did release that you'll see coming to the DMV this fall. Hawaii 3-O, 5.1 percent: This session IPA with hints of passion fruit, orange and guava is exactly as good as it sounds. Rating: Move over, Grapefruit Sculpin. There's a new tropical, fruity beer in town. So damn good! Brrr, 7.2 percent: This fall, be on the lookout for Widmer's Northwest hoppy imperial red ale (or winter warmer, as they call it). Toasted molasses-like malts and zesty, citrus, earthy hops make it quite delicious. Rating: Brrrrring me another one!
Widmer Brothers Brewing: 929 N. Russell St. Portland, OR; 503-281-2437; www.widmerbrothers.com
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Cascade Brewing’s Honey Ginger Lime, 7.2 percent: Everything this brewery does is magic. I’m not a big fan of sours, but this ginger honey wild ale was off the freaking chain. Don’t believe me? You can ask Butch Vig (Garbage’s drummer). He was sitting right next to me crushing them. True story. Gigantic Brewing’s Pipewrench, 8 percent: This gin barrel-aged IPA tasted like citrus hoppy green tea from the essence of gin botanicals. So weird and good – dare I say it was “gigantic” in taste? Hair of the Dog Brewing’s Adam of the Wood, 12 percent: This old ale aged in rye or bourbon barrels makes Goose Island’s Bourbon County offerings look like liquid pine tar. It gave me goosebumps! Tugboat Brewing’s Chernobyl Stout, 13.5 percent: This is one of the best stouts (big, dark fruits and roasted chocolate malts) I’ve ever tasted! It’s made with open air fermentation at one of the most underrated and hidden breweries in Portland. I could drink these for days, if two of them didn’t put me under the table.
Have a beer for the Bierdo to try? Drop him a line at beer@ontaponline.com.
bEHIND THE bAR
By Monica Alford
Virginia Wine Month is back, providing a fantastic opportunity to enjoy the eclectic lineup of vino that the state for lovers has to offer. On Tap bent the ears of three oenophiles who sell and serve Virginia wines at area locations. Read on for their top picks and insider knowledge of Virginia wines.
Photos: Monica Alford
Photos: Lindsay Galatro
Missy Pankow
Ezra A. Rosenberg
On Tap: What Virginia wines are available at Cheesetique this fall? Missy Pankow: We currently have Tarara Boneyard Unrefined Rosé on our wine list, which will be on until we switch to our winter selections. Between our three locations, we also carry Linden Late Harvest Vidal, Thomas Jefferson Viognier, Glen Manor Raephus and Tarara Viognier.
On Tap: What is your role in selecting Glen’s Virginia wines? Ezra A. Rosenberg: Our wine selection draws almost entirely from Virginia and New York. We have cultivated a set of what we believe to be the very best value-driven wines from our region, and we have also evolved our selection based on feedback from our neighbors. I have had a chance to visit many of the wineries we source from, and I choose all of the wines we sell in our stores.
Store Director, Cheesetique Shirlington
OT: Will you add any new options during Virginia Wine Month? MP: We’re going to be prominently displaying our Virginia wine selections so that our customers can see some of the great wines our state has to offer. In addition, I have a couple of great wine flights coming up at Shirlington that will showcase Virginia wines. OT: Are there any Virginia wines you feel are under the radar that Cheesetique highlights? MP: We always enjoy selling the Boneyard wines from Tarara. It’s their line of wines that are very reasonably priced, with a “no rules, have fun” approach. And the Boneyard Unrefined Rosé is super interesting. It just keeps drawing you in, layer after layer. OT: What are a few of your favorite Virginia vineyards, and why? MP: I love Jefferson Vineyards because you get to take in the rich history and beautiful scenery while you’re there. My personal favorite is Linden. I could drink a whole bottle of their riesling Vidal if you gave me a warm baguette and a hunk of chèvre. OT: As a Virginia boutique, what does Cheesetique do to support the local wine and cheese communities? MP: We love local, small production wine and cheese! We go to county fairs to judge locally-made cheeses, always carry Virginia cheeses and wines in our shops, and love meeting and forging relationships with the people behind these fabulous products.
Cheesetique: 4056 Campbell Ave. Arlington, VA (Shirlington), 2411 Mt. Vernon Ave. Alexandria, VA (Del Ray) and 800 N. Glebe Rd. Arlington, VA (Ballston); www.cheesetique.com
Missy’s pick: Jefferson Viognier
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Beverage Director, Glen’s Garden Market
OT: What varieties of Virginia wines do you think are the strongest? EAR: The hands-down strongest Virginia wine varietals are viognier for whites and Norton for reds. Viognier drinks beautifully in aromatic single varietals like those of White Hall Vineyards, and food-friendly blends like Blenheim Vineyards Claim House White. Norton grows well in Virginia because the varietal is indigenous to the Mid-Atlantic, providing a dark, rich red wine. OT: Any hidden gems in your current Virginia wine selection? EAR: I particularly love Barboursville’s Nebbiolo Reserve. It can be difficult to find consistently full-bodied single varietals year-to-year from Virginia, but this wine has been fantastic since we began carrying the 2011 vintage. Now we’re on the 2013 vintage. OT: How many Virginia wines does Glen’s currently carry, and how does that vary by location? EAR: We currently carry 18 wines from Virginia American Viticultural Areas. This selection will vary with the seasons, just like the food we offer. There are a few distinctions in the wine selections we carry at each location, based entirely on neighbor feedback. OT: Are you switching up Glen’s options for Virginia Wine Month? EAR: We add to our wine selection and by-the-glass menu with seasonally appropriate offerings to pair with our chef’s cuisine.
Glen’s Garden Market: 2001 S St. NW, DC (Dupont) and 1924 8th St. NW, DC (Shaw); www.glensgardenmarket.com
Ezra’s pick:
Early Mountain Foothills Red
Fabienne Tassan
Photos: Lindsay Galatro
Server, ENO Wine Bar
On Tap: What brought you to ENO? Fabienne Tassan: Love, food and wine are what bring people together. My goal is to help in making our guests’ evening a success. OT: How many Virginia wines does ENO currently offer, and what was the process for creating that list? FT: We always have at least 20 selections from Virginia at ENO, including our beer and cider options. The number changes regularly with vintage and selection availability. Virginia is famous for its red Bordeaux grapes, but we can’t forget the Sangiovese, Nebbiolo or the whites hailing from the region such as viognier, chardonnay and all of the wonderful and decadent dessert wines. We look for the best expression of the grapes with as little processing as possible.
Tysons Biergarten • Private Parties • Corporate Events • Birthday Parties • NFL Wing Deals • Happy Hour 3-9pm • 3 Levels Inside 17 flat screen TVs
• 10,000sq ft. outdoor patio • Three projector screens • Live music, outdoor games, karaoke • Family & pet friendly! Free parking in garage w/validation! Check website for details.
Open 7 days a week from 11am - 2am!
OT: How does ENO select local wines? What vineyards do you work with and like to support? FT: ENO prides itself on offering hard-to-find wines. We usually like to feature smaller wineries or vintages that may not be as wellknown or available. We want to create a unique experience. Some of our local wineries and producers are Paradise Springs, King Family Vineyards, Breaux Vineyards, RdV Vineyards, Barboursville Vineyards, Old Westminster Winery, Potter’s Craft Cider and Jefferson Vineyards. OT: What is your favorite Virginia wine served at ENO, and why? FT: I love the wine from RdV, and I never pass on a great viognier from King Family Vineyards or a rosé from Paradise Springs. But my current favorite is Barboursville’s Nebbiolo. OT: What Virginia cheeses, charcuterie and chocolate does ENO offer for its pairings? FT: Our chocolatier is Gearhart’s Fine Chocolate from Charlottesville. Our ever-changing selection of cheeses has featured selections from Caramont Farm in Esmont and Meadow Creek Dairy in Galax. Our charcuterie is sourced from two local favorites: Olli Salumeria and Stachowski Brand Charcuterie. OT: How will ENO celebrate Virginia Wine Month? FT: ENO will increase its local wine offerings, and feature a specialty wine flight comprised of wines only from the Virginia wine region.
ENO Wine Bar: 2810 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, DC; www.enowinerooms.com
Fabienne’s pick: Barboursville Nebbiolo Reserve
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be bold
A Melting Pot of Wine & Culture By Tess Ankeny
South Africa
Photo: Courtesy of Lovinston Winery
Lovingston Winery Lovingston’s winemaker, Riaan Rossouw, is originally from a small town in South Africa and moved to the states to pursue a job at Quady Winery in Madera, Calif. He’s since worked 17 vintages in Virginia, but has been drifting in and out of vineyards, co-ops and “backyard farm gigs” since 1979. During his tenure at Lovingston Winery, he’s received numerous accolades for bringing one of South Africa’s signature grapes, pinotage, to Virginia, where it may be performing even better than in its homeland. “[Pinotage] surpassed my personal expectations, and seems to express greater complexities here,” Rossouw says. But Virginia’s climate certainly presents its own difficulties. According to Rossouw, Southern Hemisphere wine regions are much more consistent, and it’s easier to produce more robust – albeit more monotone – wines. It’s harvest season in Virginia, and the 2016 harvest has certainly presented challenges. “It was a difficult and a slow start to the season, with frost damage to some vineyards, a wet spring and still wet at the beginning of summer,” he says. “Then a 180-degree turn midway to very, very dry conditions, which might turn the tide to end [the season] on a high note for the farmers who never gave up.” Rossouw believes in “little intervention” winemaking, a mindset that’s been shaped by his years of winemaking in many different wine regions. “My goal is to interpret and understand when and what we can do to help the vineyard – to help the wine reach its highest level of pureness, no matter the conditions of the season, and to make wines that are pure, elegant and transparent.” You can find select Lovingston wines in the District at Eat the Rich in Shaw and DCanter - A Wine Boutique in Capitol Hill.
Lovingston Winery: 885 Freshwater Cove Ln. Lovingston, VA; www.lovingstonwinery.com
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ON TAP | OCTOBER 2016 | www.ontaponline.com
Enjoying wine is all about experiences. It’s a way to transport yourself to a different place and time, to relive past moments. Wine is inextricably linked to culture; it’s representative of a region’s history, people, traditions and lifestyle. The American ideal of being a melting pot of different cultures is vibrant and alive today, apparent even in our vineyards. Several families and winemakers have brought a piece of their winemaking heritage from other countries to Virginia, planting vineyards and starting wineries that link cultures far and near. Celebrate Virginia Wine Month by traveling to one of these family-run wineries that have planted their culture in the heart of Virginia.
Portugal
Photo: Courtesy of Morais Vineyards & Winery
Morais Vineyards & Winery José Morais moved to the United States from Portugal more than 48 years ago, but he’s only been in the wine industry for a few years. He made his living in the construction business, but after a doctor told him 11 years ago that he needed to make some changes for his health, he decided to pursue his passion for wine. He originally started producing wines just for family and friends, but his winery has since grown tremendously in both size and quality. Morais travels to Portugal several times a year, and two years ago he brought back Vitor Guimarãis, a fourth-generation winemaker from Almeirim. Guimarãis began producing classic Portuguese-style wines in Virginia, employing winemaking practices that have been in his family for hundreds of years. Morais wines continue to be a family affair. Guimarãis’ father visits the winery at least once a year to check on the vineyards and offer his advice. “Virginia is very difficult, so if [Vitor] has a problem, he calls the old folks,” Morais says. Visitors to the winery and tasting room get a glimpse into the tradition of Portuguese winemaking and hospitality right in Virginia. The Portuguese ambassador attended the winery’s grand opening at the end of September, and guests enjoyed traditional entertainment from dancers and singers visiting from Portugal. Among more common Virginia varietals, Morais also grows touriga, albariño and verdelho, all common Portuguese grapes. The Morais winery is memorable – it’s 14 feet below ground, with no heat, AC or windows. Not only is this more eco-friendly, but according to Morais, the wines “age a lot quicker and a lot better than they do in metal buildings.” Though the winery continues to grow and produce more wine, the wines are exclusively sold from the tasting room. “We don’t have plans to be a huge winery,” Morais says. “We just plan to make good wines the old-fashioned way.”
Morais Vineyards & Winery: 11409 Marsh Rd. Bealeton, VA; www.moraisvineyards.com
T
Adapted from an article by Cory Kuklick
o many in the DC area, Harrisonburg, VA means one of two things – James Madison University or the Shenandoah Valley. While JMU alumni abound in DC, and the fall is a perfect time to take in a Shenandoah trail, there’s another reason for a day trip to Harrisonburg: craft beer. The town has a strong local-first ethos, and they don’t have to look far for award winning brews, as Brothers Craft Brewing and Pale Fire Brewing are serious contenders in craft and call the town home. Established in 2012, Brothers Craft Brewing is run by the three Shifflett siblings. Situated on the north side of town in an old Coca-Cola bottling plant, Brothers is the longest-running brewery in Harrisonburg’s craft beer renaissance. The brothers grew up in the area, and use their brewery as a home base for all things Harrisonburg. Local artists and musicians ply their trade at Cask for a Cause charity events, and the brewery has hosted the Skatan Worshipers skateboard culture event for the past two
years. Local food trucks set up shop, and Run, Sweat and Beers events start and finish at Brothers on the fourth Friday of every month. Their flagship Hoptimzation IPA and Lil’ Hellion Lager are on draught in the taproom, and it’s a great place to try their more limited releases, some of which are finding recognition around the nation. In 2015, Brothers’ English-Style Mild Ale placed gold at the Great American Beer Festival, adding to gold medals already won by their double IPA, the Admiral, at the VA Craft Brewers Festival. The brewery currently boasts five gold medals to their name. Resolute, a boozy Russian Imperial Stout aged for nine months in bourbon barrels, currently cracks the top 50 on Beer Advocate’s top 250 beers. On the opposite side of town - in the newly renovated Ice House building - is Pale Fire Brewing. The brewery opened in April 2015 with a gorgeous taproom featuring a Little Free Library, fireplace, patio and floorto-ceiling windows exposing the entirety of its brewery production. Pale Fire’s beer quickly began making its mark on the regional and national levels. Salad Days
and Red Molly – an American Saison and Irish Red Ale, respectively – both placed bronze in the World Beer Cup less than a year into Pale Fire’s existence. Pale Fire has won a total of five medals for their beers, and in 2015 Beer Advocate named them as one of the top 33 best new breweries in the country. Owner Tim Brady’s love of music (many of Pale Fire’s beers are inspired by a wide range of bands) has extended to his taproom, which hosts live local music regularly. Local radio affiliate WMRA throws monthly Books and Brews author series, and pilates and yoga sessions are available on the weekends through Barre at the Bar and Detox Retox. So if you’re heading back for a JMU game or heading out for a hike, be sure to indulge in some of the best beers Virginia has to offer at Pale Fire and Brothers.
Brothers Craft Brewing: 800 N Main St., Harrisonburg, VA; www.brotherscraftbrewing.com Pale Fire Brewing: 217 S Liberty St., Harrisonburg, VA; www.palefirebrewing.com www.ontaponline.com | OCTOBER 2016 | ON TAP
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on the scene
For more photos from these And other events, visit the online gallery at www.ontaponline.com.
Greece
Photo: Courtesy of Blue Valley Vineyard & Winery
Blue Valley Vineyard & Winery Though Blue Valley Vineyard and Winery is fairly new to the Virginia wine scene, the Zissios family has been making wine for more than three generations. Owner John Zissios made wine with his father and grandfather in the mountains of Greece, and now his sons play an active role at Blue Valley in the Shenandoah Valley. Though the Virginia climate isn’t Mediterranean, Blue Valley has blended traditional Mediterranean winemaking practices with Virginia-friendly varietals.
Blue Valley Vineyard & Winery: 9402 Justice Ln. Delaplane, VA; www.bluevalleyvineyardandwinery.com
Italy
Photo: Courtesy of Three Fox Vineyards
Three Fox Vineyards Though owners John and Holli Todhunter aren’t originally from Italy, their love of Italian culture and wines is immediately apparent at Three Fox Vineyards. They originally planned to open a winery in Tuscany, but too many legal issues stood in the way. Not to be deterred, they opened Three Fox in 2002 and planted vines in 2006. Three Fox produces a number of Italian varietals, including sangiovese, Nebbiolo and pinot grigio. Can’t make it to the winery? Try Three Fox wines at Bond 45 at National Harbor.
Guests sampled wine, cheese and more at Wine Helps! Drink a Little - Help a Lot, with proceeds donated to Homestretch to provide warm coats to children. Photos: Mark Van Bergh
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Three Fox Vineyards: 10100 Three Fox Ln. Delaplane, VA; www.threefoxvineyards.com Learn more about Virginia Wine Month at www.virginiawine.org/october-wine-month.
IN THE MIX
Y R R HA R E T HOT
By Marcus K. Dowling
ON
, M O D E E R F
D O O H R E H T A
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ON TAP | OCTOBER 2016 | www.ontaponline.com
“I love being a father of a five-year-old and I love being a DJ, so can I be a father-slash-DJ?” DJ Harry Hotter’s first answer during a recent interview with On Tap should give readers an idea of the goodnatured sense of humor held by this long-time DC areabased disc jockey. Born Harry Dixon, he’s an area native. He’s also a Howard University graduate, former Second Story Books employee and currently, a full-time DJ. With a pair of turntables, he’s achieved professional success by turning any “open-format [i.e., “multi-genre”] set into a journey that weaves 90s and 2000s hip-hop flavored pop, house, dancehall and even rock into a seamless stream of sonic excitement. Hotter’s story of how he started his career, like many of his tales, are left-of-center, but still strike right at the heart of his dedication to his craft. “[Local veteran DJ] Analyze and I decided that we wanted to be DJs at the same time,” he says. “He stole his parents’ turntable from their stereo, and I would bring my own turntable along. And one year, he got a mixer for Christmas. Then we both started buying records together to share our collections.” As the years passed, Hotter’s talent became apparent, and it was a chance meeting while he was a doorman at Dupont Circle’s Gazuza nightclub that propelled him to both mega-club and local renown. “I was DJing rave and hip-hop parties while I was in college, and DJ Dirty Hands needed a DJ to play with him at [then NE DC-based club] Dream. So, I took the night off from doing the door, and played disco breaks and classic rap records. Marc Barnes [Dream’s owner] liked me, and everything else came from there.” Of late, Hotter’s schedule has been a bit more open-ended, as he’s sampling a broader taste of the diverse and progressive vibe of DC nightlife at present. He’s finding significant inspiration behind the decks at Velvet Lounge, a small dive bar tucked deep in the U Street Corridor. “These early-20s kids want to hear a little bit of everything,” he says. Also, he speaks highly of his DJ sets at a party called “The Feel Good” at [Golden Triangle’s] Rosebar, where he notes people “love everything from Missy Elliott’s ‘Work It’ to more experimental stuff and timeless soul classics like Marvin Gaye’s ‘Got to Give It Up.’” Regarding the how and why of his musical process, Hotter opines, “I’m a raver, hip-hop kid and a punk rocker who used to see music like peas, mashed potatoes and carrots on a plate.” Explaining himself, he continues, “I never let genres touch. Now, I like to imagine what can go with what, and keep my selections super interesting. From corporate gigs to weddings to nightclubs, it’s all about playing the right song at the right time to keep everyone dancing.”
Follow Harry Hotter on Twitter @hotterthisyear. Photo: Courtesy of Harry Dixon
on the scene
FOR MORE PHOTOS FROM THESE AND OTHER EVENTS, VISIT THE ONLINE GALLERY AT WWW.ONTAPONLINE.COM.
**Mondays - Neighborhood Night** (Happy Hour til 9pm!)
**Tuesday Night Trivia (7pm)** **Open Mic Every Wednesday**
**Thursdays - Ladies Night on Stage**
**Steelers Sundays**
. t a S . d e W ic s u M Live T&H is the place that reminds you of home! We are also a full service events and catering company so let us bring the fun to you! Guests enjoyed the last concert of the summer at Yards Park with live music from Party Like It’s. PHOTOS: CRISTINA O’CONNELL
567 23rd St S, Arlington, VA 22202 | (703) 979-1872 info@tortoiseandharebar.com www.ontaponline.com | JUNE 2016 | ON TAP
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Spotlight on Local Talent By Trent Johnson Alexandria Live Music Week Cofounder Scott Fallon is enamored with music. If you get a chance to chat with him, he’ll inundate you with his vast knowledge of the various music scenes found in Austin, New Orleans and Baltimore. Even though he’s a connoisseur of sounds throughout the country, when speaking about the hidden talents in his hometown of Alexandria, Va., his voice reaches an altogether different level of enthusiasm. “We’re both hippies,” Fallon says of himself and cofounder John David Coppola. “When people think about Old Town, they think about history and shopping, but there’s a vibrant nightlife and an interactive arts scene. We interact with that all the time.” Alexandria Live Music Week, from September 30 to October 8, highlights the budding scene Fallon describes. Even though Old Town Alexandria is known for its venerable buildings and historical significance, the music festival will host at least 200 bands performing at more than 60 local venues. “We see it, so why not here?” Fallon asks. “It became an idea over beers, and we sort of took a leap of faith.” Fallon and his crew’s involvement in booking varies on the venue, with big fish such as The Birchmere participating in the week’s lineup with previously scheduled shows. For smaller places, Fallon suggests local musicians who fit each locale’s size and genre. “Some venues already have music seven days a week, and they don’t need us, but we help promote them during the week,” he says. “With other venues, we help spur them on to have different kinds of music, such as [featuring] local musicians. Ultimately, our mission is to promote the musicians of the area.” Seemingly every question asked ends with the mission of wanting to promote local musicians in the area. One band set to perform, The Glimpses, participated last year and was more than happy to join the festivities again. “As lovers and residents of Alexandria, it was very fun to play in the heart of Old Town on Durant Art Center’s stage, and to celebrate the festival with local music lovers,” The Glimpses’ Mercedes Mill says. “There’s so much great music in the DMV area, and festivals like Alexandria Live Music Week help musicians and music lovers connect at lots of cool venues.” One addition to this year’s Live Music Week is
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ON TAP | OCTOBER 2016 | www.ontaponline.com
the inclusion of Del Ray venues. As part of Alexandria, it was a goal to get the neighborhood involved in this year’s rendition because of the creative culture brewing on that side of town. “Even though Del Ray is part of Alexandria, it’s almost like two different worlds,” Fallon says. “It’s more of a hippie enclave and community-based, whereas Old Town is a little more bureaucratic.” Mills is particularly amped to play at Del Ray’s “diner-esque spot” FireFlies, as the band lives right down the road from the community. “We love FireFlies,” Mills says. “They have great food and brews, and feature all kinds of entertainment – everything from comedy acts to Sunday bluegrass.” The more venues involved, the more opportunity for local acts, Fallon exclaims, as he once again reiterates what he seeks to improve on the most. “We really want to put an emphasis on the local aspect of the event,” he says. “We made a concerted effort to open up [the festival] to more of Alexandria, and we want everyone in the city to participate.” Though this year’s shows highlight jazz, blues and softer, easier sounds, Fallon says this lineup happened organically. In the future, he hopes to introduce Northern Virginia crowds to more eclectic types of music. “Let’s bring all of the artists out there. Let’s consolidate and bring them together.”
For a full schedule and list of venues, visit www.alexandrialive.com. n Scott Fallo
On Tap is a sponsor of Alexandri a Live Music We ek.
t Johnson Photo: Tren
The Glim
pses
Photo: Co
urtesy of
The Glim
pses
on the scene
For more photos from these And other events, visit the online gallery at www.ontaponline.com.
+ 200+ 50 Venues Performances
LOCAL | REGIONAL | NATIONAL
All in Alexandria!
FEATURED EVENTS INCLUDE: Lyle Lovett and Robert Earl Keen
The Satin Doll Trio
The Funky Meters
Alexandria Karaoke Championships
Derrick Dorsey Band
Free Flowing Musical Experience The Janna Audey Band Judge Smith Matvei Sigalov
Alexandria Film Festival’s, Spinal Tap-This One Goes to Eleven, Viewing Party & Live Music Event
El Debarge Farley Granger Guests enjoyed the inaugural Barley and Music Fest in Alexandria, Va. The event featured brews from Starr Hill Brewery, Mad Fox Brewing Company and Bold Rock Hard Cider. Photos: Mark Raker
ALL INFO AT WWW.ALEXANDRIALIVE.COM www.ontaponline.com | June 2016 | On Tap
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for Cutie, among others. Just two years after forming the band, they played on Conan and hit the Billboard 200 chart. A second album followed in 2013, as well as more touring. It was an exhausting beginning, and one that left everyone in need of a break. “We hadn’t had a real break from each other and from the road in four or five years, and so coming into finishing the last album
Return to DC
“I feel like the record sounds like a sunny, happy California record, and I hope people hear that. We were in a really good place when we were writing the songs, and I think that shows.”
By Bridey Heing Photo: James Minchin
After a brief hiatus, indie band The Head and The Heart are back with a new album and tour, which includes a mid-month stop at DAR Constitution Hall. The band, which was formed in 2009 in Seattle, has a history with DC – drummer Tyler Williams and guitarist/vocalist Jon Russell hail from Fredericksburg, Va., and grew up on a steady stream of DC punk. But while one-third of the band has roots in East Coast punk, The Head and The Heart’s latest album is a classic West Coast take on the indie sound that has made them a phenomenon in the past seven years. Even if you’re not too familiar with the band, chances are you’ve heard The Head and The Heart. Their songs have been featured in TV and film for years, including the soundtracks for How I Met Your Mother, Sons of Anarchy and the trailer for Silver Linings Playbook, among numerous others. Although that’s been a leg up for the band, it doesn’t totally explain their rapid rise from a Seattle bar to world tours. “It has been really quick and everything happened really fast for us,” pianist Kenny Hensley says. “So many bands tour for 10 years before they catch their break, and we put a lot of work into it, but it did happen really fast.”
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The Head and The Heart’s origin story almost sounds like fate. Hensley happened to go to an Irish pub to watch a basketball game shortly after moving to Seattle from L.A., and happened to catch an open mic set from Russell and multi-instrumentalist/ vocalist Josiah Johnson (currently on a health-related break from touring). The three struck up a friendship and started working on some songs, which they performed at the same open mic every week. Charity Rose Thielen, who plays banjo and violin, joined the band after hearing one of those sets, and bassist Chris Zasche was working at the bar as a bartender. Williams is an exception; a friend of Russell, he moved to Seattle after hearing a demo the group recorded. “It was kind of a combination of super random events and a lot of luck, I think,” Hensley remembers. But the luck kept coming as the band put in more and more work. They made copies of a self-titled EP, which helped garner attention from local record labels. Just one year in, they signed to legendary label Sub Pop Records, which remastered and expanded the album for release in 2011. In those first two years signed to Sub Pop, the band toured in the U.S. and Europe with Vampire Weekend, The Decemberists, Iron & Wine and Death Cab
cycle and touring, we let everyone know we wanted to take an extended break to live normal lives and recharge a little bit,” Hensley says. That break took different forms for the members of the band. While Hensley spent time in China, Williams came back to Virginia. Thielen worked with Mavis Staples, Russell went to Haiti and Zasche camped in the Canadian Rockies. When they came back together, they found themselves rejuvenated and ready to work on their third album, the newly released Signs of Light. It’s an album that Hensley sees as imbued with the space in which they wrote it, rather than a central message. “We did write a lot of the songs in California at this studio north of San Francisco. The studio had this amazing floorto-ceiling view of the ocean. I feel like the record sounds like a sunny, happy California record, and I hope people hear that. We were in a really good place when we were writing the songs, and I think that shows.” After a few days in Europe, the band kicks off their Signs of Light tour in Nashville early this month. Their performance in the District is one Hensley is looking particularly forward to, not least because he’s a big fan of the city. “I love being in that city, getting a [Capital Bikeshare] bike and checking out the monuments and museums,” he says. “It’s one of my favorite cities.” The Head and The Heart are playing DAR Constitution Hall on October 22 at 8 p.m. More information and tickets are available at www.theheadandtheheart.com.
DAR Constitution Hall: 1776 D St. NW, DC; 202-628-1776; www.dar.org/constitution-hall
on the scene
For more photos from these And other events, visit the online gallery at www.ontaponline.com.
Guests enjoyed a fun celebration at the Park Potomac Fall Festival with food from restaurants and food trucks, local wine and beer samplings, and live music from Darcy Dawn. Photos: Mark Van Bergh
www.ontaponline.com | June 2016 | On Tap
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Bumper Jacksons
Raising the
(Barn) Roof
By Courtney Sexton
O
n a humid evening this past August, a crowd of costumed, bicycle-riding revel makers took to the streets of DC, led on their wheels by a sixpiece, traditional, old-time jazz band, instruments in tow (including the upright bass) on makeshift pedicabs. To a tourist, the sight must have been one to behold; but to the Bumper Jacksons, it was just another Wednesday. Since forming in 2012, core duo Jess Eliot Myhre and Chris Ousley, along with the rest of the Bumper Jacksons, have quickly become one of the District’s most well-known and eclectic musical ensembles. When they’re not officially performing, which is rare, members of the band find a myriad of other ways to bring music – and camaraderie – to the city they call home. Partnering with local bikeshop BicycleSPACE for a “social ride” is a prime example. “I asked [BicycleSPACE] to help do a special edition of [one of their social rides] as a backdrop for a music video,” says vocalist/ guitarist Ousley. “They came out in awesome costumes, I built a drum riser on the back of a pedicab and the band played tunes all through downtown with a big crowd
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On Tap | OctoBER 2016 | www.ontaponline.com
Photo: Mike O. Snyder
of happy people. Lots of bikers joined in with us when they saw us passing by. It was awesome.” The resulting video will be released this spring with the band’s forthcoming third album. The band’s sound and look are oldtimey, but not without sass – a bit like a neon victophone. It’s solidly jazzy (notes of frontwoman Myhre’s stint in New Orleans
boy”) and Myhre (a “native Floridian”) met playing in a contradance/square dance band, the Sligo Creek Stompers, where Ousley says “[the two] first discovered [their] musical chemistry and the joy of melding, developing and remixing the diverse sounds of American roots music.” From there, both a musical and personal relationship grew, and as the duo toured the country, they began slowly adding other
The band’s sound and look are old-timey, but not without sass – a bit like a neon victophone. float into many of the tunes), slightly bluesy, but mostly simply makes you want to find a sweetheart and an old pair of swing shoes to shine up and take out dancing – like really dancing. Which makes sense. Ousley (a “Maryland
musicians from the circuit – with a pedal steel here, a suitcase percussion there – until they rounded out their now steady lineup with Brian Priebe (trombone), Dave Hadley (pedal steel), Dan Samuels (percussion) and Alex Lacquement (bass).
“Our sound matured and grew organically,” Ousley says. “We didn’t plan to have the instruments we have. We just took the players whose personalities and musical interests fit our own. It’s really fun to have more colors to paint with.” Their repertoire is indeed colorful, and the band’s second album, Too Big World, showcases the breadth of derivations on traditional folk that the Bumper Jacksons are capable of blending. Slow and lazy river harmonic rounds in “Jubilee” fade into sultry come-hither vocals from Myhre in “Trouble in Mind.” “Bully of the Town” is big and brassy, whereas “Adventure Story” is a modern lullaby a la Brandi Carlile. In the short span of four years, the Bumper Jacksons have managed to cover a lot of ground. While they call DC home, they’ve traveled the country – playing venues big and small – from intimate lounge shows to traditional theaters, and barns and big festivals to the Kennedy Center. At the end of this month, the band is excited to raise “The Barns” at Wolf Trap in Vienna, Va.
“We just took the players whose personalities and musical interests fit our own. It’s really fun to have more colors to paint with.” “It’s seriously one of the best sounding rooms in the area – few places come close. We’ve been in the audience so many times, and we’re really looking forward to being on the other side.” And while it is no surprise that fans at events like the Charm City Folk & Bluegrass Festival or Red Wing Roots Music Festival revel at the sight of Myhre’s washboard bass, one doesn’t immediately place a band singing about johnnycakes and venison, and sassafras tea and the Delta, in the same mental space as a city most musically famous for go-go and punk. Their appeal to the hometown crowd is perhaps an even bigger testament to the “it” that they seem to have. And though the members each have their own “spirit places” – New Orleans, St. John, Colorado, Philadelphia, Baltimore – DC inspires them to make the music they do. Myhre and Ousley agree. “There’s an amazing entrepreneurial culture [here] that pervades more than the startups and NGOs. [They] see it in the artistic crowd, community organizations and more. It’s exciting.” That entrepreneurial spirit is certainly alive for the Bumper Jacksons, who are able to make a living playing – the band is their main source of income – and paying it forward. Myhre, who built her own original washboard bass, makes, sells and teaches workshops on the classic American roots instrument. Other bandmates lead community classes in improv, old-time ukulele, upright bass and 1920s guitar – bringing it all back home to bike-riding bassists and their musical mission “to foster learning and growth in [their] audiences and [themselves].” Catch the Bumper Jacksons at Wolf Trap on Saturday, October 22 at 8 p.m. Tickets are $22-$25. Learn more at www.wolftrap.org.
The Barns at Wolf Trap: 1635 Trap Rd. Vienna, VA; 703- 255-1900; www.wolftrap.org
OPEN MIC EVERY TUESDAY IN OUR VINYL LOUNGE
S AT U R D AY, O C T 1
REGGAE FEST FT. FEELFREE AND THE CORNERSTONE THURSDAY, OCT 6
GIANT PANDA GUERILLA DUB SQUAD ALBUM RELEASE PARTY
Every Monday
FRIDAY, OCT 7
ON THE BUS, DEADGRASS SATURDAY, OCT 8
ALL GOOD PRESENTS: TEA LEAF GREEN MONDAY, OCT 10
MELVIN SEALS AND JGB WEDNESDAY, OCT 12
ALL GOOD PRESENTS: HOT BUTTERED RUM THURSDAY, OCT 13
JAH WORKS, THE HOLDUP FRIDAY, OCT 14
DEAR JERRY AFTER PARTY FT ROOSEVELT COLLIER’S ALL-STAR JAM SATURDAY, OCT 15
PINK TALKING FISH
October 9/30 The New Thirty 10/1 Sub Radio 10/7 Southern Charm
WEDNESDAY, OCT 19
E.L.M., BROCCOLI SAMURAI THURSDAY, OCT 20
ALL GOOD PRESENTS: JOHN BROWN’S BODY FRIDAY, OCT 21
10/8 Doc Marten & The Flannels 10/8 UFC Pay Per View
10/14 Reagan Years
AMANDA SHIRES ALBUM RELEASE PARTY SATURDAY, OCT 22
DAVE KLINE BAND, THE BEAT HOTEL
10/15 Honey Extractor 10/21 Cazhmiere
WEDNESDAY, OCT 26
MATT WERTZ
10/22 Alter Ego
THURSDAY, OCT 27
STOP LIGHT OBERSERVATIONS
10/28 Kanye Twitty 10/29 The VIPs
FRIDAY, OCT 28
BETTER OFF DEAD SATURDAY, OCT 29
HALLOWEEN BASH FEATURING THE MANTRAS
9811 WASHINGTON BLVD GAITHERSBURG, MD 20877 240.780.7139 UNIONJACKSRIO.COM www.ontaponline.com | OctoBER 2016 | On Tap
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By Trent Johnson and Jon Kaplan
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 2 Yacht Rock Revival If you’re like us, and can’t get enough 70s light rock, then Yacht Rock Revue is for you. This band of merry musicians puts on their 70s threads, and performs the hits of bands like Hall & Oates, Michael McDonald and Steely Dan. This tour includes 70s artists Matthew Wilder, Robbie Dupree and members of the bands Ambrosia and Player. Doors open at 6 p.m., show starts at 8 p.m. Tickets cost $35 in advance; $40 ay of show. The Howard Theatre: 620 T St. NW, DC: www.thehowardtheatre.com
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 4 Warpaint With a moniker like Warpaint, you might expect a thrash metal band with little sentimentality regarding the wellbeing of your ears. Though the actual Warpaint offers up some hard rock themes with tunes about the pain of love, the group approaches these subjects
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with a pop-rock grace. The four-piece female group has actually been trending more toward the alt-pop genre, using instrumentation minimally. This hasn’t affected their effectiveness, however, as the group is coming off the heels of their third studio album, Heads Up. Doors open at 7 p.m. Tickets cost $25. 9:30 Club: 815 V St. NW, DC; www.930.com
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 6 Bad Religion Bad Religion, the punk rockers from L.A. who have been at it since 1979, are still going. While lineup changes have meant members coming and going over the years, the band currently features three out of four original members (Greg Graffin, Brett Gurewitz and Jay Bentley). With Against Me! and Dave Hause. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., show at 7:30 p.m. Tickets cost $30. The Fillmore Silver Spring: 8656 Colesville Rd. Silver Spring, MD; www.fillmoresilverspring.com
ON TAP | OCTOBER 2016 | www.ontaponline.com
a song, leaving listeners on the edge of their seats. Doors open at 7 p.m., and show starts at 8 p.m. Tickets cost $15. Rock & Roll Hotel: 1353 H St. NE, DC; www.rockandrollhoteldc.com Giant Panda Guerilla Dub Squad Formed in 2001 in Rochester, N.Y., Giant Panda Guerilla Dub Squad (also known as GPGDS) plays a combo of reggae, world beat and jam band music. Their sixth studio album, Make It Better, has just been released and will be available at this show, so don’t miss it. Doors open at 7 p.m., show at 8:30 p.m. Tickets cost $15 in advance; $17 at the door. Gypsy Sally’s: 3401 K St. NW, DC; www.gypsysallys.com
Lewis Del Mar With patient strums of a guitar, the folk-pop duo attacks their fused genre with an abrasively colorful language. Each song neatly escalates and calms its tempo, delivering a powerful combination of sounds as strong as the sartorial acumen held by the members. Even with the aforementioned genre, the duo obviously pulls influences from grunge, especially with their penchant for raising and lowering their tone throughout
Paul Pfau He’s had his ups and downs in the music biz, but Paul Pfau is always moving forward. Originally from Western Maryland, and now calling Nashville home, Pfau’s musical career was threatened by a polyp on his vocal chords. After he got better, he appeared on season eight of The Voice, and now he’s back with a new EP release, The Great American Love Story. With Brian Dunne. Doors open at 6 p.m., show at 7:30 p.m. Tickets cost $15-$25. Jammin' Java: 227 Maple Ave. E. Vienna, VA; www.jamminjava.com
Temper Trap Temper Trap will forever be famous for what is essentially the perfect rom com tune in “Sweet Disposition.” While the
band probably doesn’t want that to be the truth, it hasn’t stopped them from crafting other smooth singles. The group carries a beautiful indie feel with a pacing that is both smooth and enjoyable. If you get a chance, definitely see them live. It’s not a trap, we promise. Doors open at 7 p.m. Tickets cost $30. 9:30 Club: 815 V St. NW, DC; www.930.com
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 7 American Aquarium According to their website, the big emphasis in American Aquarium’s music is honesty. The band balances the good with the bad, including narratives revolving around epic highs and gritty lows. The music is unequivocally “Southern.” Though the tunes aren’t overtly country, there is a twang in the sounds of their voices and the strums of their often acoustic guitars. The band’s 2015 release Wolves has the band at its apex, and with sorrowful sounds like “Southern Sadness” and “Family Problems,” get ready for an emotional rollercoaster. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., show at 8 p.m. Tickets cost $15-$20. The Hamilton: 600 14th St. NW, DC; www.thehamiltondc.com
Ken Wenzel & Cross Kentucky Ken Wenzel & Cross Kentucky is what you get when you gather six musicians from the DMV with rock influences and country traditions. Vacillating from country to rock is normal for this local group seeking to bridge the gap between both genres with scintillating saxophone solos and a raucous lead guitarist. Though they
maintain twang, the talented band delivers music in multiple paces, so fans of both country and rock can enjoy the tunes. 9 p.m. to midnight. Free to attend. Sehkraft Brewing: 925 N. Garfield St. Arlington, VA; www.sehkraftbrewing.com
Post Malone With a melodic approach to hip-hop, Post Malone follows the steps of greats Kanye West and Drake, delivering music easy to approach and fun to sing along to. The Dallas native started as a guitarist hopeful, but eventually crossed over into the studio production side of music before developing his own “sauce.” Now the young artist has worked with rapgame stalwarts such as the aforementioned West, 50 Cent and Young Thug, to go along with his stint opening for pop culture icon Justin Bieber. With this amount of early success, all without an official LP release, this might be an opportunity to see a budding star in a more intimate location before he moves on to venues like the Verizon Center. Show starts at 8 p.m. Tickets cost $25. The Fillmore Silver Spring: 8656 Colesville Rd. Silver Spring, MD; www.fillmoresilverspring.com
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10/1 ...... Back to Zero 10/6 ...... DJ Paul Surreal 10/7 ...... Odeon 10/8 ...... 9 Mile Roots 10/9 ...... DJs Pork n Beans 10/13 .... DJ Jenesis 10/14 .... Swift Technique 10/15 .... Thunder Buddies 10/20 .... DJ 2Nutz 10/21 .... Footwerk 10/22 .... Screaming Monkeys 10/27 .... DJ Lingo 10/28 .... Excellent Drivers 10/29 .... Advanced Party Solutions
2854 Wilson Blvd.
703-276-WOWE (9693) Clarendon Metro Stop (Orange Line)
whitlows.com
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 9 Cindy Alexander L.A.-based singer/songwriter Cindy Alexander has recently released her eighth studio album, Deep Waters. On it, she draws from her life experience, including tackling tough subjects like overcoming breast cancer. Alexander won NBC’s StarTomorrow talent show www.ontaponline.com | OctoBER 2016 | On Tap
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Music Picks and was offered a record deal, but turned it down, deciding the indie route was for her. 8:30 p.m. show. Tickets cost $12. IOTA Club & Cafe: 2832 Wilson Blvd. Arlington, VA; www.iotaclubandcafe.com
Majid Jordan Even though they haven’t had a ton of singles in their short lifespan, you’ve likely heard the sultry sounds of duo on the Drake track “Hold On, We’re Going Home.” The pair is one of the upcoming musical acts signed to the Canadian rapper’s OVO label, and have been producing amazing R&B tracks since they hit the music scene. For this show at the 9:30 Club, not only will you get to see them in action, but with an online purchase you’ll also receive a copy of their self-titled album. Doors open at 7 p.m. Tickets cost $28.25. 9:30 Club: 815 V St. NW, DC; www.930.com
a less famous, more talented Meghan Trainor, and likely a lively concert. Doors open at 6 p.m., show starts at 7:30 p.m. Tickets cost $15-$25. Jammin’ Java: 227 Maple Ave. E. Vienna, VA; www.jamminjava.com
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 13 Muddy Ruckus Despite complaints from the neighbors, Muddy Ruckus created their 2016 release Pretty Bones in their apartment, on tour and in a number of other cramped locales. While this probably sounds like it was hell, you can feel the intimacy in the album, as the folk duo created warm tracks that sound like two friends fooling around with a guitar and drums, except it objectively sounds good. Gypsy Sally’s will be the perfect venue for these kinds of grooves, unless you can somehow convince the group to play in your kitchen. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., show starts at 7:30 p.m. Free admission. Gypsy Sally’s: 3401 K St. NW, DC; www.gypsysallys.com
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 11 Caroline Smith Behind her beautiful singing voice, which enables her music to straddle the line between pop and R&B, Smith’s words always carry a certain weight. Even in her tunes, the messages often revolve around mantras of self-empowerment and believing in yourself. Two that come to mind are “Magazine,” a single about body image and the pressure the media places on people to look a specific way, and another is “Let ‘Em Say,” which calls for folks to ignore the haters. Essentially, Smith is
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Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox Scott Bradlee went viral when he posted a video of his band, Postmodern Jukebox, on YouTube doing a cover of Miley Cyrus’s “We Can’t Stop” in doowop style. Since then, Bradlee and Postmodern Jukebox have continued to go viral, and make genre-bending covers of songs such as “All About That Bass” and “Tainted Love.” Show at 8 p.m. Tickets cost
$37.50-$103. DAR Constitution Hall: 1776 D St. NW, DC; www.dar.org/constitution-hall
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 14 Crywolf Crywolf, or rather lone member Justin Phillips, has the perfect name. Wolves are known to howl at the moon, and some wolves can carry a tune while doing so, making some dope music in the wild. Crying is a physical response typically triggered by a whirlwind of emotions. Phillips’ music is the perfect combination of these two abstract terms, blending mellow sounds with an emotionally charged electric howl. The music is soulful, powerful and smooth all at once, and the single “Anachronism” is a wonderful highlight of Phillips’ qualities, which are only adding up as he continues to record this style of dramatic music. Doors open at 8 p.m. Tickets cost $15. Black Cat: 1811 14th St. NW, DC; www.blackcatdc.com Teenage Fanclub Started in Scotland in 1989, Teenage Fanclub was propelled by the songs of Norman Blake, Raymond McGinley and Gerard Love, all contributing to the band’s output. Their third album, Bandwagonesque, released in 1991, earned them international fame, including in the U.S., where they even came out ahead of Nirvana in end-of-year polls. With Skyler Gudasz. Doors open at 6 p.m. Tickets cost $25. 9:30 Club: 815 V St. NW, DC; www.930.com
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 16 Eric Johnson When you get a chance to
see a world-class musician, it behooves you to venture out to the venue and check them out. With Eric Johnson, the DMV will have an opportunity to see one of the best active contemporary guitarists in a one-man show featuring his crafty songwriting and piano prowess. Though some think loud noises accompany the title “guitarist,” Johnson will delve into many volumes of elegance. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., show starts at 8 p.m. Tickets cost $28.50-$58.50. The Hamilton: 600 14th St. NW, DC; www.thehamiltondc.com
Keiko Matsui Not all concerts have to be rah-rah shows with raucous noise. Sometimes you’re not in the mood to have your ears ringing and that’s okay, because Keiko Matsui is here to bring her brand electric piano sounds to Virginia. The sounds are completely pleasant and easy to dance to or enjoy over a cup of coffee or a nice meal. There are no frills or theatrics with Matsui’s jazz music, just an elegant easygoing nature. Show starts at 7:30 p.m. Tickets cost $45. The Birchmere: 3701 Mt. Vernon Ave. Alexandria, VA; www.birchmere.com
Red Elvises Also known as “Igor & Red Elvises,” after their frontman Igor Yuzov, the Red Elvises started in 1995, playing what they called “Siberian surf rock.” Yuzov grew up in the former Soviet Union, and left as soon as possible, starting his current when Elvis Presley supposedly came to him in a dream and told him to play
sehkraft brewing
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 14 The Fishermen Band When you go fishing, typically you’re on the prowl for a specific type of water-breathing animal, but sometimes you toss the line out and hope for any bite. Listening to music is similar as we all have our favorites, but sometimes want to bounce around from genre to genre. The Fishermen Band’s sound is this in a nutshell (fish egg?) as the group blends funk, jazz, rock and folk into their eclectic sound. Their new single, Hey, is due out on Halloween and in advance of the release, the band is set to enjoy a release party at Sehkraft Brewing. 9 p.m. show. Free. Sehkraft Brewing: 925 N. Garfield St. Arlington, VA; www.sehkraftbrewing.com rock ‘n’ roll. 8 p.m. show. Tickets cost $15. IOTA Club & Cafe: 2832 Wilson Blvd. Arlington, VA; www.iotaclubandcafe.com
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 18 John Paul White From 2009 to 2014, John Paul White toured and recorded with Joy Williams as The Civil Wars, a critically-acclaimed, Grammy-winning Americana folk duo. After their breakup, White returned to his solo career and recently released his album Beulah to critical acclaim. With The Kernal. Show at 8 p.m. Tickets cost $25-$27. The Barns at Wolf Trap: 1635 Trap Rd. Vienna, VA; www.wolftrap.org
Styx Even people who don’t like Styx like Styx. The iconic band has produced hit rock songs for decades, and the group’s music transcends pop culture mediums, as they’ve enjoyed numerous name drops in films and TV shows. The band has been touring for more than 40 years, so folks have had tons of opportunities to see these vanguards of rock live. While the group hasn’t released a studio album since 2005’s Big Bang Theory, Styx’s catalog is extensive with radio bangers, making this a can’t miss show. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., show starts at 7:30 p.m. Tickets cost $46.50-$66.50. Warner Theatre: 513 13th St. NW, DC; www.warnertheatredc.com
Lupe Fiasco Lupe Fiasco emerged on the scene with a carefree attitude best represented by “Kick, Push” and “The Show Goes On.” However, over the past few years, the Chicago rapper has slowly been transforming into more of a political voice, shifting the focus of songs to subjects such as social justice and inequality. Though the music has become more serious in tone, the rhymes are still ferocious and well thought out. Despite his radio play trending down, Fiasco is as respected in the hip-hop community as any other artist, so he definitely remains an act worth seeing. Doors open at 6 p.m., show starts at 8 p.m. Tickets cost $35-$65. The Howard Theatre: 620 T St. NW, DC; www.thehowardtheatre.com
WEEKLY SPECIALS MONDAY
½ OFF growler fills burger ½ OFF butcher in the haus TUESDAY
7pm trivia whow/geeks drink cut steak ½ OFF butcher in the haus WEDNESDAY
eco-taco night in the haus
TUES - FRI
drafts ½ OFF select 11am-4pm
the sehkraft tailgate brunch party Every Sunday 11AM Tailgate Buffet served from 11am-4pm. Full NFL Package, games on the TV’s. Tailgate games to play. Greet Beer.
check out our on-site butcher shop LIVE MUSIC SCHEDULE
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 19 JD Souther JD Souther is one of the most prolific songwriters in the music industry. Whether it was penning songs for The Eagles or other bands from the 70s and 80s, it’s likely you’ve heard words over the radio that started as scribbles on his scratch paper. Now Souther is touring on the back of his 2015 release Tenderness, which sees the old soul balancing his pop and jazz influences. With Souther, the tunes are always heartfelt and can’t miss, just like this performance. Show starts at 8 p.m. Tickets cost $34-$42. The Barns at Wolf Trap: 1635 Trap Rd. Vienna, VA; www.wolftrap.org
Oct 1
Sia Sia’s career has had many incarnations already, and it seems she’s just getting started. She came to prominence in the U.S. when her song “Breathe Me” was used to haunting effect in the series finale of the HBO show Six Feet Under in 2005. Since then, she’s become famous for hiding her face behind elaborate costumes, and writing hit songs for artists like Beyonce, Rihanna and Christina Aguilera. With Miguel and AlunaGeorge. 7 p.m. show. Tickets start at $35. Verizon Center: 601 F St. NW, DC; www.verizoncenter.com
Oct 6 Oct 7 oct 8 oct 10 Oct 13
OKTOBERFEST Closing party w/ Black Masala TBD Cross Kentucky w/ TBD WAVOS open mic night Dan Wolfe & Muddy Crows w/ So Thens
OCTOBER 14 The Fisherman Band (Cd release party) Oct 15 Oct 19
KIDSROCK! Brunch & Concert w/ Bubba’s 9am start see website for tix. Malarkey (Irish Fiddle Music) OCTOBER 15 radio mosaic
Oct 20
Silver Line Station
OCTOBER 21 An Evening w/ Professor Louie & the Crowmatix Performing originals & classic hits from The Band) $5 at the door after 9pm
Oct 22 oct 24 oct 26 oct 27 oct 28 Oct 29 nov 3 nov 4 nov 5
The Next Step open mic night Supernatural theme quiz w/ Geeks Who Drink. (please see website for details) Black Muddy River w/ TBD & TBD Taylor Carson Band The Pocket Band Halloween Show Gravel road Bluesgrass lato w/dana parker Hand painted swinger
www.ontaponline.com | OctoBER 2016 | On Tap
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Music Picks
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 29 THURSDAY, OCTOBER 20 Darlingside Gathered around, each strumming a stringed instrument and bellowing into a single microphone, is Darlingside. Each member of the four-piece band sings in some capacity, offering their unique voices to the individual songs. The sound teeters on the edge of Band of Horses and Mumford & Sons, mixed with the steady vocal teamwork reminiscent of a talented acapella group. So if you’re in the mood for a mellow night of live music, look no further than Darlingside. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., show starts at 7:30 p.m. Tickets cost $12.25-$20.25. The Hamilton: 600 14th St. NW, DC; www.thehamiltondc.com
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21 The Fab Faux Two key members of latenight talk show bands that play The Beatles’ might sound like an odd combo. However, The Fab Faux is made up of Beatles freaks that want to do the music justice, and they do. The aforementioned late night band members are guitarist Jimmy Vivino, music director on Conan, and bassist Will Lee, who appeared on David Letterman for more than two decades. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., show starts at 8 p.m. Tickets cost $44-$93.50. The Hamilton: 600 14th St. NW, DC; www.thehamiltondc.com
Laura Benanti In July, The Late Show with Stephen Colbert needed an actress to portray Melania Trump. They called Laura Benanti, who nailed the impression and raised her profile around the country. Turns out, she’s been appearing on stage and screen for years, winning awards left and right. At this show, she’ll sing and tell funny stories from her years in showbiz. Shows at 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. Tickets cost $40-$45. The Barns at Wolf Trap: 1635 Trap Rd. Vienna, VA; www.wolftrap.org
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 29 SUNDAY, OCTOBER 23 John Brown’s Body This Ithaca, N.Y.-based band has been creating albums since 1996, and just released their newest, Fireflies, in September. The band describes their sound as “future roots music,” and though they’re known as a reggae band, they experiment with dub, electronic, funk, ska, hip-hop and dubstep. With Nappy Riddem. Doors open at 7 p.m., show starts at 9 p.m. Tickets cost $15 in advance; $18 at the door. Gypsy Sally’s: 3401 K St. NW, DC; www.gypsysallys.com
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Die Antwoord This rap group from South Africa has been oddly famous for weird reasons. Though you’d be hard-pressed to hear the group, made up of rappers Ninja, Yolandi Visser and DJ Hi-Tek, on any mainstream airwaves, they’re explosive sound has been a staple on music blogs. The accented rap is fun to bounce to, with electronic noise complementing the unique flow of each lyricist. Another quality of the triad is their use of “zef” culture, a.k.a. things that are out-of-date, trashy and pastiche. Recently, there was a rumor of a breakup, but the reports have been vehemently denied. Doors open at 7 p.m. Tickets cost $40. Echostage: 2135 Queens Chapel Rd. NE, DC; www.echostage.com
The Pocket The Pocket is a Washington, DC-based alternative-rockreggae band with an authentic island sound. Vocalist Omar Teitelbaum, Jamaican-born guitarist Terrence Brown and keyboardist Matt Wood intuitively fuse alternative rock, jazz and hip-hop with off-beat skanks that are Jamaica-tested and crowdapproved, and guaranteed to move an audience to its feet. 9 p.m. - 12 a.m. Free to attend. Sehkraft Brewing: 925 N. Garfield St. Arlington, VA; www.sehkraftbrewing.com
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 30 GWAR Sort of local (they formed in Richmond, Va.), and sort of not (their characters come from outer space), GWAR has been rocking the interplanetary space since about 1984. While
no founding members remain, the band has persevered. At a GWAR show, it’s always recommended that you wear clothes you don’t mind getting dirty, or wet. With Darkest Hour & Mutoid Man. Doors open at 7 p.m. Tickets cost $25. 9:30 Club: 815 V St. NW, DC; www.930.com
Jackie Greene With Back to Birth, Jackie Greene, formerly of The Black Crowes, actually brings a garage rock sound more similar to The Black Keys. Song after song is chock-full of groovy guitar riffs and soulful lyrics that carry you to the next track. While it’s not necessary to know the words to your favorite bands’ songs, we suggest giving the album a listen or two, because you’re going to want to sing along at this show. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., show begins at 7:30 p.m. Tickets cost $20-$25. The Hamilton: 600 14th St. NW, DC; www.thehamiltondc.com
MONDAY, OCTOBER 31 Dweezil Zappa Frank Zappa’s son has carried on the family tradition – not just of playing music, but of playing intricate, whimsical, sometimes silly stuff. Dweezil has spent years learning his dad’s tunes, but is also a composer in his own right. And on this tour, he plays his own music, drawing from his newest release, Via Zammata. Show at 7:30 p.m. Tickets cost $65. The Birchmere: 3701 Mt. Vernon Ave. Alexandria, VA; www.birchmere.com
on the scene
For more photos from these And other events, visit the online gallery at www.ontaponline.com.
Farm Aid came to Jiffy Lube Live on September 17, featuring a stellar lineup including board members Willie Nelson, John Mellencamp, Neil Young and Dave Matthews. Proceeds support family farming in America, and the day featured a Homegrown Village showcasing area farmers. Photos: Shelly Coates