Get Down: After a series of rampant re-brandings of the clubs and "upscale lounges" lining the Crescent Avenue/12th Street entertainment district, it now seems that everyone sports their own dime-a-dozen house DJ. Most often, the music is as satisfying as the watery $8 cocktails that are becoming commonplace. Those in search of intoxication, both musical and literal, are finding more and more that to get down, you have to go down -- the stairs leading to the Crescent Room.
Drink it all in: A minimalist update has removed clubby bells and whistles in favor of a warm glow created by Zen-style candles and paper lanterns. The team that got Eleven50 off the ground headed back across the street and brought with them the lineup of world-renowned DJs. With Josh Wink, Danny Howell, Mark Farina and Dimitri from Paris -- all of whom pack large rooms -- taking to the decks, the more intimate Crescent Room is giving the electronic set the opportunity to get up close and personal with internationally recognized artists.
Drink up: With low covers, a pool table and music that tends to draw cult-like followers, it often seems that everyone at the Crescent Room really does know your name and they really are always glad you came. Adding to the feel of a neighborhood bar is a set of drink specials. Pabst Blue Ribbon is available on draft for $2; perfect pints of Guinness, Harp and Stella Artois are poured nightly for $3 and whisky shots are always two bucks a pop.
Watch those stairs: Clubbing in a basement comes with its own special set of safety hazards. One recent night, Deep Dish had the place so packed with dancing bodies that it seemed even the walls were sweating. Between the evening's humidity and the heat of the room, the stairs literally sweat, becoming slick with condensation, making for some lovely banana-peel style falls. Those looking to cool off in such drenched moments can head to the patio.
Watch those stares: Anybody can have 15 minutes of fame at the Crescent Room's Wednesday night Train Wreck. Show up early and sign up to DJ for a short stretch that could have onlookers cheering or leering. More about music than technical prowess, the CDs in your car could suffice though those who want to give their records and skills a test-run aren't turned away.
Crescent Room, 1136 Crescent Ave. 404-875-5252.
