Best Local Overall Music Act: T.I.
T.I. calls himself “king of the South” with some justification. Much like Jay-Z, he takes commercial rap to its zenith. On each of four albums, the native Atlantan assembles glittery, infectious beats as a canvas for smooth and effortless flows, resulting in inescapably accessible hits. After its spring release, his latest album, King, dominated Atlanta’s urban radio and nightclubs by drawing together a cavalcade of sharply defined bangers like “What You Know” and “Why You Wanna.”
www.trapmuzik.com.
Best Local New Music Act: Ghost Tour
GHOST TOUR is an indie-rock band with country influences, not vice versa. The group’s jangle-pop chops bare the burdens of working man’s music but there’s more My Bloody Valentine than Gram Parsons in the mix. Featuring singer/guitarist Craig Gates, bassist John Naismith and drummer Greg Stevens, Ghost Tour forgoes showboating to adopt a stoic approach to the art of song. Their thirtysomething angle adds post-hipster substance to Ghost Tour’s sound, but the group still rocks. Songs like “Brown Guitar” and “Craig #1” swell with a well-tempered exuberance that embraces a lineage of respectable artists, from Wilco to the Minutemen and Pavement to the Pretty Things. Ghost Tour offers something for the critics and the kids to sink their teeth into.
www.myspace.com/ghosttour.
Best Local Band To Reinvent Itself: A Fir-Ju Well
When word spread that A FIR-JU WELL was playing its “last show ever,” rumors of the band’s death were greatly exaggerated. Of equal exaggeration was the local music scene’s reaction when the group re-emerged under the name Gringo Star. What’s in a name, anyway? An awful lot. A Fir-Ju Well was a classy, mysterious moniker that hinted at the group’s swirling palette of sweat-soaked and baroque psych rock; it was miles away from a side-stabbing Beatles pun. Whether Gringo Star invokes a smile and a groan or just bewilderment, it’s certainly infused the group’s public image with a whole new sense of mystery. Hey, it worked out for Brian Jonestown Massacre, but not so well for John Cougar Concentration Camp.
www.myspace.com/thegringostars.
Best Local Vocalist: India.Arie
Mention the name INDIA.ARIE and you’ll conjure images of ever-changing hairstyles, sweet-smelling incense and colorful headwraps. But bug all that: The lady can sing, as she proves on her latest album, the recently released Testimony: Vol. 1, Life & Relationship. Employing a range that rivals Stevie Wonder, her deep, rich tone and complex — yet accessible — arrangements add soul to any tune she chooses to grace.
www.indiaarie.com.
Best Local Instrumentalist: Bobby Yang
Whether leaping burning Led Zeppelin riffs or standing still enough to balance a bar glass on his head while zooming through a Pagannini, violinist BOBBY YANG has gotten noticed in Atlanta during the few short years since moving here from Aspen, Colo. A musician of genuine range and depth, Yang is fully engaged in his performance, whether rock or classical. Some critics may dis violin as a delicate instrument with itty-bitty strings, but Yang makes it rock true with a signature style in live concert, without the tepid pablum that comes from so many billed as “crossover” artists and without merely throttling your brain with sheer volume.
www.bobbyyang.com.
Best Classical Music Act: Atlanta Symphony Orchestra & Chorus
The ATLANTA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA & CHORUS should be counted as one of the city’s true major-league teams, alongside the Braves. With more than 100 CDs and 23 Grammys among its members, the 95-member orchestra and its allied 200-member volunteer chorus have long shaken the foundations of that old-fashioned assumption that anything truly worthwhile in American classical music must come from New York City. The Braves have Turner Field, and the Falcons have the Georgia Dome. Now, the question is whether the community will pony up the cash to build the symphony a new hall designed by Santiago Calatrava.
www.atlantasymphony.org.
Best Local Rock Act: The Black Lips
Garbled garagists THE BLACK LIPS are a beautiful disaster spreading bruised pop like a social disease. Like everything about the Brian Jonestown Massacre, everything about the Black Lips music (and the band’s venue and label, Die Slaughterhaus) is DIY and art-damaged — frayed or faded — yet takes on supersaturated supersonics. This is surf rock clawing from a froth of psychedelic phlegm dripping from Spanish moss. On stage, the chaos is fluid — and may even spread some fluids. The Black Lips may not technically play rock best, but they will rock you best.
www.myspace.com/theblacklips.
Best Local Emo Act: Cartel
CARTEL’s music is big: beefy hooks, a ringing voice in group leader Will Pugh, and an ambition to become one of the country’s best emo bands. Thanks to its workaholic ethic, the band’s fizzy lead single “Honestly” has become an MTV favorite. Its second album, Chroma, nestled on the national charts nearly a year after its fall 2005 release. The best way to hear Cartel, however, is live, where Pugh’s generous, melodic voice shines brightest.
www.cartelrocks.com.
Best Local Country Music Act: No River City
NO RIVER CITY is a rustic combo that sure has somethin’ flowin’. The actively touring quintet can range from twangy rue to resolute roots stomp, or it can marry the two. Equal parts the Band, Jon Brion, Will Oldham and Blue Rodeo, No River City plays from a wavering foundation of dusky folk as expansive as a Big Sky sunset, multihued and quietly heartbreaking. An upcoming full-length album — sessions of which are previewed on MySpace — exhibits artfully faded Americana and bucolic vistas. And a fertile No River City runs through it.
www.myspace.com/norivercity.
Best Local Singer/songwriter: Anna Kramer
What sets ANNA KRAMER apart from the troubadour masses isn’t just the honesty in her songs, but her ability to wander through an array of musical styles while maintaining her own identity. Kramer’s voice is more honest-to-goodness human than seductress. Rather wielding feelings like a club, she confronts highs and lows with authentic emotions that bend to expose the subtleties in her songs. Kramer’s modest presence breathes realism into her performances whether she’s traversing country-music desolation and Kinks-style Brit rock, or simply covering Buck Owens, Buddy Holly or Carl Perkins. Sweet melancholy is as much her calling card as is her rockabilly twang.
www.annakramer.net.
Best Local Blues Act: The Wood Brothers
Singer, songwriter and guitarist Oliver Wood enjoys a sizable following for his heavy blues band, King Johnson. So it’s no surprise that Ways Not to Lose, his album with younger brother Chris Wood (bassist for Medeski, Martin & Wood), turned out to be an engaging and incisive folk-blues delight. THE WOOD BROTHERS strip Oliver’s songs down to the chords, with nothing but the two strumming away on their instruments. The numbers are piercing and stark, unveiling a lifetime of hard-won victories and hard-earned lessons.
www.thewoodbrothers.com.
Local R&B/soul Act: Algebra
It took damn-near forever, but local soul vocalist ALGEBRA finally broke onto the national scene. Born and raised in Atlanta, Algebra has been kicking around locally for years. She signed to Dallas Austin’s Rowdy Records while still a student at North Atlanta High School, then spent a year on Motown Records — all without releasing an album. But check VH1 Soul or BET-J and you’ll see her video, “U Do It for Me,” in heavy rotation — and that’s a rare feat for A-town soul folks. Expect to hear much more of her Southern rap-meets-soul stylings after her debut album drops sometime this fall on Kedar Entertainment.
www.myspace.com/algebrablessett.
Best Local Hip-hop Act: Purple Ribbon All-Stars
It’s been a big year for big butts, particularly for Big Boi’s PURPLE RIBBON ALL-STARS. Every rap label has its token white boy, and Purp’s Bubba Sparxxx paid dividends with his smash hit, “Ms. New Booty.” Aside from that, the Purple Ribbon All-Stars created the best of the many Atlanta theme songs this year with their radio and club banger, “Kryptonite.” Superman ain’t got shit on that. The crew pulled off a successful and productive year, all while reppin’ our city: “Pimp if you want them, you can find them in the A.”
www.purpleribbonallstars.com.
Best Snap Music Act: Dem Franchize Boys
Some will rightfully argue over who pioneered the snap music sound, but DEM FRANCHIZE BOYZ — Buddie, Jizzal Man, Parlae and Pimpin — are the group making a lasting impression. Their pair of hits, “I Think They Like Me” and “Lean Wit It, Rock Wit It,” exemplifies snap’s kinetic yet quiet energy, even as its debut album, On Top of Our Game, incorporates other hardcore rap styles to create a sonically balanced listening experience. Of course, superstar producer Jermaine Dupri’s patronage certainly didn’t hurt the group in becoming more than just a Bankhead sensation.
www.demfranchizeboyz.com.
Best Local Jazz Act: Takana Miyamoto
Pianist TAKANA MIYAMOTO is probably the hardest-working lady in the Atlanta jazz scene. She plays weekly at local clubs; records and performs solo and with collaborators such as Julie Dexter and Lizz Wright; fronts two divergent bands (the Takana Miyamoto Trio and the ATLove Project); runs a music festival in Japan; and even finds time to teach piano lessons. With a musical style that skews from straight-ahead to acid jazz, Miyamoto expects to release a slew of recordings in the coming months.
www.myspace.com/takananet.
Best Local Electronic Act: Evol Intent
Perhaps mashing drum ‘n’ bass troupe EVOL INTENT should change its name to “Evol Knievol.” After all, the Evol Intent trio has leapt some prodigious hurdles in the worldwide drum ‘n’ bass arena. Producing for labels such as Renegade Hardware, Human, and the group’s own Evol Intent Recordings, Evol Intent has placed grit-etched drum ‘n’ bass into DJs’ boxes worldwide. That’s not even when the three are DJing around the world, taking sounds inspired from gun-metal gray gangsta rap and grindcore, but never forsaking melody. A full-length album, as well as collaborations with locally based Ewun, Mayhem and Adult Swim are scheduled.
www.myspace.com/evolintent.
Best Local Experimental Music Act: Deerhunter
DEERHUNTER’s most compelling asset is its penchant for unpredictability. No two performances are the same, yet the group’s cerebral fingerprint shines through its constantly morphing presentations. Deerhunter balances earth-rattling drones with angelic cadences that dwell on the borders of coherent song structure, and it utilizes the blank spaces inside the notes, which leaves plenty of room to roam around inside a wash of graceful guitar noise, clutter and kraut-rock rhythms. Its competent take on less-than-orthodox sounds blossomed in only a few short years from lo-fi, “kitchen avant-garde” home recordings to a viable tenant of the pop avant-garde that gives a nod to everyone from Rhys Chatham to Stereolab.
www.notownsound.net.
Best Local Traditional Folk Act: Elise Witt
To confine ELISE WITT to the narrow realm of “traditional folk” would be a mistake. True, those are her roots, and she’s careful not to lose sight of folk’s long-standing role in social change. Her “Open the Window” is destined to become a new signature song for change, in fact. With Witt, the notion of song that’s communal, rather than just performed by an artist, is important. But Witt’s absorption of song traditions from across the world -— what she describes as “global, local and homemade songs” -— says more about what folk represents in the 21st century.
http://www.mindspring.com/~emworld/">www.mindspring.com/~emworld/.
Best Local Jam Band: Blueground Undergrass
Ever since Jerry faded into the psychedelic sunset, followers of the Dead have been searching for a new groove. Fortunately, before the drugs wore off, Deadheads latched onto the music of BLUEGROUND UNDERGRASS, led by local banjoman the Rev. Jeff Mosier. The group’s finely crafted blend of bluegrass and boogie is both listenable and motivates some major butt-shaking. The Undergrass took a bit of a hiatus for a couple of years but came back in a big way with a powerful new release, Faces. It’s got a good beat, and you can Sufi-dance to it.
www.bluegroundundergrass.com.
Best Local Latin Music Act: Rua 6
The dearth of Latin-themed parties is long gone. There’s always somewhere to go to shake your booty to some buena música, and though international stars like Shakira and Marc Anthony make stops in Atlanta, you wouldn’t know of any local acts who play consistently throughout the year. Except, of course, if you’ve ever been to Loca Luna. A true mélange of culture, RÚA 6 plays every Friday and Saturday at the famed Latin restaurant/club. Originating from Panama, Brazil and the United States, its members describe their sound as “world music with a strong Brazilian accent.”
www.rua6.com.
Best Local Tribute Band: Van Heineken
Gasp! Pop-culture guru Jon Waterhouse leads a double life. By day, he’s a mild-mannered, erudite raconteur, lady charmer and astute wordsmith with a penchant for all things kitsch. By night, he wears wigs and spandex, dons the rock-and-roll persona of David Lee Roth, and leads the circus sideshow known as VAN HEINEKEN. In a tepid pool of tribute bands, Waterhouse and his buddies’ homage to Van Halen is king. Tongue firmly in cheek, they re-create a snarky salute to the Roth-era VH, complete with dancers, assorted freaks and, oh yeah, the songs that make us all hot for teacher.
www.vanheineken.com.
Best Use Of Sharpie On Flesh: Elizabeth Elkins
Many rockers are heavily inked with colorful tattoos, but look closely at the Swear’s intense but beguilingly beautiful ELIZABETH ELKINS. You’ll notice self-inflicted graffiti, scrawled in punky black ink on her arm or chest. Yep, right there on her otherwise creamy skin, you’ll find an intriguing array of cryptic or self-referential words or phrases. An hour or so before each show, the roaring rocker takes Sharpie in hand and scribbles an impromptu message: “I draw from various song lyrics of my own and from my favorite writers, books, poetry or anything tongue-in-cheek, vaguely self-depreciating or whatever fits my state of mind that night.”
www.theswear.com.
Best Reason to Buy A Nintendo Classic: Contraband
If you pick up a classic console, you can infinitely replay the eight-bit jams performed live by CONTRABAND, the alter ego of Athens’ post-hardcore math-rock quartet Cinemechanica. Additionally, you can train to be a featured player in one of the group’s shows: Contraband performs the soundtrack to the classic NES game Contra while lucky participants attempt to beat the game live. There’s even an official “dance”: up, up, down, down, left, right, left, right, B, A, start. Even though you can’t use the secret 30-lives code during a performance, turn it into an interpretive dance and you’ll be invincible on the dancefloor. It’s hipper than the Lean Back or even the Cha-Cha Slide. Not since Mario laid his first pipe has Nintendo Classic been this energizing.
www.myspace.com/nintendorock2.
Best Local Concert Promoter: Tight Bros. Network
As club promotion crew TIGHT BROS. NETWORK knows all too well, rock and roll is a messy thing. Randy Castello and Nisa Asokan mostly operate out of Drunken Unicorn, where Castello is the booking agent. Since 2001, Tight Bros. has been shepherding the world’s fringe-dwellers — from well-known auteurs like Diplo, Acid Mothers Temple and Wolf Eyes to local dissidents like Deerhunter and Untied States — to successful Atlanta shows and blown minds.
www.tightbros.net/tightbros.html.
Best Local Club Promoter: Liquified
The glow sticks and UFOs may have matured into iPods and Diesels, but the party still rocks whenever Liquid Groove — ahem, LIQUIFIED, in its middle age — is throwing it. For 12 years now, powerhouse promoter Devin Walkley and his team have brought everyone from progressive king Sasha to drum and bass triumvirate Dieselboy, Dara and AK 1200 to venues all over town — though Liquified now calls Eleven50 home base for most of its events. While other promoters have slowed down or faded away, Walkley’s crew not only has survived but has improved with time.
www.liquified.com.
Best Local Label: Arc the Finger Records
In May, ARC THE FINGER RECORDS celebrated its fourth anniversary. Its dedication to quality hip-hop and sound business practices ensures plenty more birthdays to come. A refreshingly real alternative to ATL’s love for snappin’-and-rappin,’ the label continues expanding its highly anticipated A3C Independent Hip-Hop Festival, scheduling another for April 2007. With label leaders like Psyche Origami, a national release from Intellekt and Dirty Digits coming this month, a showcase of ATF artists at Atlantis Music Conference, and co-production of shows like Jurassic 5, the Boot Camp Clik and DJ Krush, Arc the Finger is constantly on (see its blog, ConstantlyOn.com), and the true heads are so glad it is.
130 Boulevard. 404-339-0051. www.arcthefinger.com.
Best Georgia-based band MySpace page: Mastodon
MySpace is the 21st-century equivalent of a Trapper Keeper binder — it’s covered in unicorns, dragons, notes from friends, and rock ‘n’ roll fantasies. Except now you don’t just scratch “MASTODON Rulez!” in red ink, you can also link to the band’s profile, make a logo background or embed a song. Fittingly, heavy music fans have embraced MySpace, and CL deems the logo worthiest of being scrawled in the biggest block letters to be our own local metal leviathans. Over the summer months, Mastodon’s profile became a compulsory click for previews of Blood Mountain, the epic album from arguably Atlanta’s sickest act. The page also features links to behind-the-scenes videos, old photos and more. Though seemingly incessant road warriors, Mastodon always maintains a home on the Net.
www.myspace.com/mastodon.
Best Georgia-based Music Blog: www.kissatlanta.com
Local DJ, promoter and band manager Preston Craig launched KISSATLANTA.COM in March 2005, according to its first post, “so that people might gain a better understanding as to what the driving force is behind the music and venues in Atlanta.” In just over a year, it’s made impressive strides toward that goal, from chatting up new cultural obsessions to disseminating information on hot new local bands. The blog now features several local writers alongside Craig’s acerbic yet enthusiastic prose, all dedicated to chronicling Atlanta’s indie-rock scene.
www.kissatlanta.com.
Best Concert Venue: Variety Playhouse
1099 Euclid Ave.
[map]
404-524-7354
http://www.variety-playhouse.com
You can get to the VARIETY PLAYHOUSE early and find a comfortable seat where you can see, or you can get there late and join the standing-room-only crowd right against the stage. Either way, the sound is consistently clear, the bar has decent beer on tap at fair prices, and management pushes smokers out in the alley where they belong. You can even dodge the Ticketmaster charges and buy direct from the box office Monday through Friday, noon-6 p.m. It doesn’t get better, only bigger — and, as they say, size isn’t everything.
Best Place To Hear Local Music: The Earl
488 Flat Shoals Ave.
[map]
404-522-3950
http://www.badearl.com
Throughout 2006, there’s been an ongoing debate around the office: Does fried okra and nitrates on a stick make music better? Well, recent trips to THE EARL have confirmed that yes, a little salt of the earth makes for a meatier experience. Not that anyone was concerned about the quality of music at the Earl to begin with. We turn to the Earl not just because we’re hungry in our tummies but also because we’re hungry in our hearts for that prime grade-A local music.
Best Rock Club: Lenny's
486 Decatur St.
[map]
404-577-7721
http://www.lennysbar.com
All sorts of musical acts perform on LENNY’S stage — the ongoing experimentation of Kirkwood Ballers Club, hip-hop from the 2nd Sight Crew, and various others — but no club in Atlanta embodies the punk-rock spirit more. Over time, the club’s boast of being the “CBGB’s of Atlanta” has proven largely true. Local groups like Brass Castle, the Selmanaires and the Carbonas frequent the stage, as do label showcases from Rob’s House and Stickfigure. When a show sold out the 150-capacity venue, it really felt as though a band could tear the place down. Shoot, the recent eviction of the Memorial Drive location only earns it more punk points as club employees and supporters pitched in helping hands and their trucks to move equipment.
Best Acoustic Music Club: Eddie's Attic
515-B N. McDonough St.
[map]
404-377-4976
http://www.eddiesattic.com
There’s a reason EDDIE’S ATTIC dominates this category year after year — the venue earns it! Even changes in ownership (now in the loving hands of Bob Ephlin) haven’t affected the quality of the bookings or the exquisite audio sound fans have come to expect. The local, regional and national performers love it, the audience loves it, and you ain’t a real Atlantan until you have been shushed by the Eddie’s Attic staff. With Bob and the titular Eddie at the helm, the Attic maintains a high degree of national respect. Besides, you gotta love the Monday Night Open Mike Shootouts.
Best Blues Club: Northside Tavern
1058 Howell Mill Road
[map]
404-874-8745
http://www.northsidetavern.com/
Other clubs may have luxuries such as nice tables, easily accessible bathrooms, parking spaces and stages that can be seen from everywhere in the room. But NORTHSIDE TAVERN has the personality that makes a soundtrack of your troubles or helps you forget them. The club also pulls in personalities, including the working-class stiffs from the junk yard across the street, starving students from the Tech campus, and even a few spillover hipsters from nearby Compound.
Best Country Music Club: The Swallow at the Hollow
1072 Green St.
[map]
678-352-1975
http://www.theswallowatthehollow.com
In Roswell, there’s a nondescript but delicious barbecue restaurant that’s a bit too easy to miss. Every weekend, THE SWALLOW AT THE HOLLOW treats fans to intimate performances by musicians whose names and faces may not be too familiar but have impressive songwriting credentials. Modeled after Nashville’s famed Bluebird Cafe, the Swallow has become the premiere local listening spot for country music’s most prolific and successful songcrafters. Getting up close and personal in the room makes the experience even more exciting, and while the booking focus tends to be more on artists whose songs represent mainstream, radio-friendly country music, hearing the hits without all the obtuse production is a treat.
Best Dance Club: MJQ Concourse
736 Ponce de Leon Place
[map]
404-870-0575
http://www.mjqatlanta.com
The predictably unpredictable nature of MJQ CONCOURSE keeps crowds rolling in. In theory, a “best dance club” has a huge dancefloor, but MJQ has a packed dancefloor, which is much more fun. Clubs don’t often age gracefully — in fact, most are lucky if they make it through the first year. But not MJQ. Between its regularly scheduled programming of Brit pop, hip-hop, reggae and rare grooves, the club manages to throw in weird theme nights like lingerie parties, blood wrestling, homecoming events and cowboys vs. ninjas (we can’t explain if you weren’t there). Plus, it books the hippest-of-the-hip DJs. No matter what the entertainment, though, a night at the Q, is almost always a damn good time.
Best Jazz Club: Churchill Grounds
660 Peachtree St.
[map]
404-876-3030
http://www.churchillgrounds.com
Sometimes a quiet evening of jazz is better than a night in a loud and smoky rock club. Yeah, we know that sounds crazy. But one visit to CHURCHILL GROUNDS, and we were hooked. The elegant, cozy venue is a classy alternative to scuzzy rock venues. It’s an excellent place to take a special date: Have a glass of wine, relax, and let a night of music work its magic (you’ll just need to close the deal). But, first and foremost, it’s a great place to see intimate performances by a variety of jazz greats and up-’n’-comers. Located to the right of the historic Fox Theatre on Peachtree, Churchill Grounds has a stately, affluent vibe, so ditch the sneakers and dress nice for a change, OK?
Best Karaoke Night: Karaoke Tuesdays
789 Ponce De Leon Ave.
[map]
404-874-4783
http://www.clermontlounge.net
Fortunately, the drinks are cheap and stiff at Atlanta’s most surreal setting, the fallout shelter/basement called the Clermont Lounge. At KARAOKE TUESDAYS, you’re going to need a few shots to numb the terror of watching someone who could be your grandma get nekkid and sing Kelly Clarkson. Add a few more if you plan to build up the courage to perform in front of the abusive but funny host, Rotknee.
Best Latin Club: La Rumba Night Club
6317 Roswell Road
[map]
404-303-1814
It used to be that if you wanted a good night of hip-shaking, booty-peppering, sweat-inducing salsa, you’d have to wait for that time of the month, er, when the Vacilón party was held at various restaurants all over town. Things have changed. Even though promoters still like to make the Miami connection (dropping a moniker like “South Beach” somewhere in the description of an after-dark Latino event), LA RUMBA NIGHT CLUB is the truest spot in the ATL for salsa, merengue, reggaeton and other moves from south of the border. Just outside the Perimeter on Roswell Road, La Rumba transforms itself each weekend to pack in crowds of people from all kinds of nationalities and backgrounds — even gringos.
Best Urban Music Club: Apache Cafe
64 Third St.
[map]
404-876-5436
http://www.apachecafe.info
For years it’s been known as “the club formerly known as Yin Yang Cafe,” but no one can deny that APACHE CAFÉ established its own name in 2005. And over the past year, the club has played host to a number of near-classic performances — from a comeback show for local soul-hero Donnie to a rare set by the Brooklyn-based house trio Tortured Soul. Dream about the glory days of Yin Yang if you want, but you’ll be missing out on some amazing shit if you don’t get your mind back into the present.
Best “Best Club” Curse: If a club gets national attention, it closes
Atlanta clubs shouldn’t strive to be the “best club,” just a really good club. In Atlanta, for some strange reason, IF A CLUB GETS NATIONAL ATTENTION, IT CLOSES. Think about this: When Jermaine Dupri showcased our nightlife in “Welcome to Atlanta,” most of the clubs he mentioned closed shortly after. Velvet Room? Closed. Kaya? Closed. Kream? Closed. Shark Bar? Closed. Club 112? Open, but it moved from the original location to Peachtree Street and, frankly, has never been the same. This year’s victim? Vision (which sat on the hallowed grounds of Kaya). Dupri didn’t shout out Vision, but celebs started flying into town to hold events at the newly renovated mega-club. Alas, Vision’s lot will become lofts. Take note, club owners: Be successful, just not too successful.
Best Club Anthem: Yung Joc's "It's Goin' Down"
Mix together a hypnotic five-key piano melody played like an arpeggio, and a growled, perfectly timed chorus. What do you get? YUNG JOC’s “IT’S GOIN’ DOWN,” a brash club anthem that you heard seemingly everywhere. How did this snap music/crunk hybrid become a catchphrase among mallrats and dope boys alike? It’s all in Yung Joc’s pronunciation, as he says the title like a country-fried Fonzie: “It’s goin’ dowwwwn.”
www.yungjoc.com.
Best Mixtape DJs: Aphilliates
In the capital of the Southern hip-hop movement, the APHILLIATES DJ camp (Don Cannon, Drama, Sense, Jamad, Ox Banga, and Jaycee) speaks loudly. You can hear them on “Gangsta Grillz,” a popular Saturday night show on Hot 107.9 FM that peppers the airwaves with phrases like “trendsetter” and “cannon!” But the crew is best known for its mix CDs. The mixes, from DJ Drama’s Gangsta Grillz series to DJ Jamad’s soul-oriented Afromentals, are hotly collected and dissected by rap fans and major media outlets. They know the Aphilliates trumpets up-and-coming artists well before the rest of the country. Young Jeezy and T.I. are two major examples.
www.theaphilliates.com.
Best Newcomer Club DJ: DJ Drew Van Atten
Having lived his entire life in the ever-increasing bulge that we call Atlanta (we know this ‘cause his mom was once a Loafer), DJ DREW VAN ATTEN knows controlled mess, which could help explain his affinity for dropping scuffed, skuzzy tech- and electro-house. Around these parts, industrial and industrious mutation is a way of life — iconic buildings leap up overnight. Same goes for Van Atten’s turntable trajectory. It’s almost like one minute he’s a fist in the crowd, and next thing, he’s got the crowds in his fist — on all the haute bills opening for the likes of Damian Lazarus, Uffie and other Cleaning Up the Dirty South events. It all adds up to a metallic-meets-melody, bleepin’ good time. Exhibiting a savvy sense of selection, Van Atten is hopefully an ear to stay.
www.myspace.com/drewvanatten.
Best After Hours/Late-Night Spot: Decatur Social Club
141 Sycamore St.
[map]
404-377-3311
http://www.ragingburrito.com/azul.htm
When the bars in Fulton County began closing at 2:30 a.m., we sorta thought people might start going out earlier to pack in the same amount of party time. Fashionably early, it seems, never caught on. The party still doesn’t get hopping till just before closing time. Thankfully, you can drop late into the DECATUR SOCIAL CLUB. Every Friday, Azul turns into an indie-rock dance party with organizer Preston Craig and a rotating cast of DJs including Jamal, the_chuck, and DJDJ Dylan, as well as special guests. The usual crowd is excessively hip: We recently heard you can view dudes in berets. OK. So, if the berets aren’t enough of a draw, it’s free before 1 a.m. and a mere $2 cover after that.
Best Weekly Club Night: Thursdays at the Mark
79 Poplar St.
[map]
678-904-0050
http://www.themarkatlanta.com
Although drum ’n’ bass may not be the average person’s choice of music, THURSDAYS AT THE MARK offer up consistency, quality DJs, a supportive venue and a loyal crowd. You can chill upstairs and absorb at a distance the sounds of DJs such as Black Sun Empire and Optical, while you sip cocktails concocted by the bashful but sure-to-get-you-tipsy bartender Gerson. Or you can creep downstairs and take in the aural amps among hardcore steppers, breakers, sexy scenesters and happy-hour hangers-on (after all, there’s free Sweetwater to kickstart the festivities). Anthony Rotella and his 404Audio.com crew have helped unite the DNB scene over the night’s two years, and club owner Pablo Henderson’s had his back. Look for 404Audio.com to bring a new addition to the DNB community next to Endenu this fall, where the subculture will continue its transit to a wider audience via clothes, video and fingerprint- and warp-free vinyl.
Best Burlesque Performer: Monkey Zuma
MONKEY ZUMA takes the banana crème cake when it comes to beast burlesque performer. Wait, “best”? Well, that too, if for no other reason than she never breaks character. She even brings her own bananas. She began as a go-go dancer for circus-themed band Greasepaint but has since been adopted by Atlanta’s most creative burlesque troupe, Dames Aflame. She also apes the guys in Tongo Hiti at Trader Vic’s. You shouldn’t get this turned on by a monkey, but …
www.damesaflame.com.
Best Camp Drag Queen: Bubba D'Licious
Laughter can cure almost anything — just ask the countless number of people whom BUBBA D’LICIOUS has helped over the years. Then, you’ll understand the power of a man in a dress. Since 1989, Jim Mark’s alter-ego has helped raise more than $3.5 million for HIV/AIDS resources. And for the last 10 years, Bubba has presided over bingo every second Thursday to raise money for PALS (Pets Are Loving Support). Even corporate America has fallen under the spell of Bubba’s over-the-top slapstick humor: Volkswagen uses his mug to sell cars, and Miller Lite’s created a Bubba bobblehead doll.
www.bubbadlicious.net.
Best Glam Drag Queen: Nicole Paige Brooks
Local drag celebrity NICOLE PAIGE BROOKS is like one big “Mindfreak” episode storming through town, taking the art of illusion to a level that Criss Angel can’t even touch. Just ask the countless number of straight men and lesbians how they felt after finding out the hottie they were hitting on was actually a dude. Even the RGs (real girls) envy Nicole’s killer legs. Beyond being a hot piece of ass, Nicole works with YouthPride, an organization that creates a safe haven for young homosexuals. And speaking of homosexuals, this year Ms. Brooks also graced the cover of David magazine. She’s also become an in-demand host for all the best gay events across the country.
www.nicolepaigebrooks.com.
Best Straight Bar: Andrew's Upstairs
56 East Andrews Drive, Suite 13
[map]
404-467-1600
http://www.andrewsupstairs.com
Let’s face it, in Buckhead, just about any bar is fertile grounds for girls and boys on the prowl. But ANDREWS UPSTAIRS comes closest to the perfect straight bar. Just look at the place. Live music, a well-stocked bar, intimate booths, big, comfy couches, and a parade of beautiful patrons make this a hot spot when that spot is hot, if ya know what we’re saying. The 400-capacity love nest, which is perched above the East Andrews Cafe, also is an upscale music and entertainment venue with a fertile schedule of local, regional and national acts, DJs, movie nights and theme events. Although original music is presented, quite often the featured act is one of those crazy tribute bands that seem to breed like rabbits somewhere. It’s not uncommon to find a Bon Jovi or Led Zeppelin cover band on stage here, reproducing the hits that spawned a generation or two.
Best Gay Bar: Jungle
2115 Faulkner Road
[map]
404-844-8800
http://www.jungleclub.net
When the legendary Backstreet closed its doors, Atlanta’s nightlife scene had already experienced major blows and was losing its big-city club creditability. Fortunately, the spirit, passion and soul of those days still lives at JUNGLE every Saturday. In the space formerly inhabited by the Chamber, owner Brad Williams and the old-school values of Ovah Productions prove Atlanta still knows how to party. Jungle brings in worldwide DJ talent like Tracy Young, which in turn packs the venue with freaky club kids and sweaty, shirtless guys as far as the dilated eye can see.
Best Lesbian Bar: The Red Chair
550-C Amsterdam Ave., NE
[map]
404-870-0532
http://www.redchairatlanta.com
Saturday nights at THE RED CHAIR feels like watching an episode of Showtime’s super sexy hit series, “The L Word.” The lesbian wet dream finally became a reality when promoter Liz Owens lent her magic touch to the hottest girl party in the Southeast. Weekly guest DJs like local favorite Kim Crawford drop hip-grinding beats for the jam-packed crowd of lipstick lesbians, drag kings and gay-boy admirers, while the occasional wet T-shirt contest helps make Red Chair the place to be for true lady-loving fun.
Best Dive Bar: The Phoenix
567 Ponce De Leon Ave Ne
[map]
404-892-7871
Stepping into THE PHOENIX is like walking onto a David Lynch movie set. The oddly lit bar hosts a cast of characters who will leave you entertained, a little scared and sometimes straight-up perplexed. If a few cop cars or an ambulance happens to be out front, just consider all the flashing lights your disco-welcome wagon to Ponce’s days gone by. You know, before the condos drove away the streetwalkers and such. The Phoenix is a little time capsule, which has remained the home for a slew of street creatures, leather daddies and curious onlookers for 19 years. In other words, the real neighbors.
Best Sports Bar: Famous Pub and Sports Palace
2947 N. Druid Hills Road
[map]
404-633-3555
http://www.famouspubsports.com
With two giant projector screens and dozens more televisions scattered about, FAMOUS PUB AND SPORTS PALACE has a setup that allows you to watch every game all at once. It’s a sports fan’s version of heaven, replete with loaded bar, great greasy food, six pool tables, sports-themed arcade games and plenty of SEC and NASCAR memorabilia filling up the walls. Don’t get too excited, though — there’s enough good stuff at the Palace to make the true sports fan pee in his full-body racesuit.
Best Comedy Club: Uptown Comedy Corner
800 Marietta St.
[map]
404-881-0200
This year, UPTOWN COMEDY CORNER returned to Atlanta better than before. In the few months since its reopening, the club has featured Paul Mooney among other big names in urban comedy, held auditions for HBO’s “Def Comedy Jam,” hosted the taping of Robert Townsend’s “Partners in Crime” for the Black Family Channel, and convinced the city of Atlanta to reinstate its liquor license. The venue itself is by far the most aesthetically pleasing and largest of Georgia’s comedy clubs. Plus, it has some fine-looking waitresses. Comedians beware, however. If you’re wack, the audience will boo you right off the stage.
Best Bowling Alley: Midtown Bowl
1936 Piedmont Circle
[map]
404-874-5703
http://www.midtownbowl.com
Inspired by L.A.’s Lucky Strike Lanes, the revamped MIDTOWN BOWL brings the concept of boutique alleys to Atlanta. Opened in 1960, the 32-lane emporium now boasts a retro feel inside and out, with brand-new furniture, a state-of-the art scoring system and a full-service bar that features 30 bottled beers, six draft beers, wine and top-shelf liquor. You may not be able to bowl a 300 yet, but with kitschy fun available 24 hours a day and enough booze to ease the nerves, maybe you could one day.
Best New Neighborhood Bar: P'Cheen
701 Highland Ave. NE, #5
[map]
404-529-8800
“Here you are, two Hoes and a Hummer,” a waiter is overheard telling a trio of ladies. He’s talking about beer: two Hoegaarten and one Sweetwater Summer Hummer. That kind of yak could lead to a quick eviction from the slickest ultralounge, but not from your casual crossroads pub, and that’s what P’CHEEN is for the “new” Old Fourth Ward. The convivial international bistro fare is not to be ignored. Neither are the kick-ass onion rings. But, at night, neighborly wayfarers congregate at P’Cheen for $2 PBR, Belgian brews, artfully balanced Guinness drafts and eclectic DJs. It’s become a beacon for booze at the boundary of a burgeoning ’hood.
Best Place for a Cheap Date: Starlight Six Drive-In
2000 Moreland Ave.
[map]
404-627-5786
http://www.starlightdrivein.com
Remember the first time you went to a drive-in theater? The thrill of being up past your bedtime and crawling around the car in your pajamas may have overshadowed the movie. The STARLIGHT SIX DRIVE-IN can take you back to those youthful days — only the experience is a bit more fun with a hot guy or girl instead of your mom and dad. Chances are the movie still will take a backseat to everything else — especially if you toss a six-pack into the plan. You may even still want to crawl around the car seats at some point in time, just without the pajamas.
Best Place for an Expensive Date: How would we know?
How would we know? Do you know how much journalists make? Why don’t you check out some of those fancy restaurants in the ORAL PLEASURES section.
T.I. calls himself “king of the South” with some justification. Much like Jay-Z, he takes commercial rap to its zenith. On each of four albums, the native Atlantan assembles glittery, infectious beats as a canvas for smooth and effortless flows, resulting in inescapably accessible hits. After its spring release, his latest album, King, dominated Atlanta’s urban radio and nightclubs by drawing together a cavalcade of sharply defined bangers like “What You Know” and “Why You Wanna.”
www.trapmuzik.com.
Best Local New Music Act: Ghost Tour
GHOST TOUR is an indie-rock band with country influences, not vice versa. The group’s jangle-pop chops bare the burdens of working man’s music but there’s more My Bloody Valentine than Gram Parsons in the mix. Featuring singer/guitarist Craig Gates, bassist John Naismith and drummer Greg Stevens, Ghost Tour forgoes showboating to adopt a stoic approach to the art of song. Their thirtysomething angle adds post-hipster substance to Ghost Tour’s sound, but the group still rocks. Songs like “Brown Guitar” and “Craig #1” swell with a well-tempered exuberance that embraces a lineage of respectable artists, from Wilco to the Minutemen and Pavement to the Pretty Things. Ghost Tour offers something for the critics and the kids to sink their teeth into.
www.myspace.com/ghosttour.
Best Local Band To Reinvent Itself: A Fir-Ju Well
When word spread that A FIR-JU WELL was playing its “last show ever,” rumors of the band’s death were greatly exaggerated. Of equal exaggeration was the local music scene’s reaction when the group re-emerged under the name Gringo Star. What’s in a name, anyway? An awful lot. A Fir-Ju Well was a classy, mysterious moniker that hinted at the group’s swirling palette of sweat-soaked and baroque psych rock; it was miles away from a side-stabbing Beatles pun. Whether Gringo Star invokes a smile and a groan or just bewilderment, it’s certainly infused the group’s public image with a whole new sense of mystery. Hey, it worked out for Brian Jonestown Massacre, but not so well for John Cougar Concentration Camp.
www.myspace.com/thegringostars.
Best Local Vocalist: India.Arie
Mention the name INDIA.ARIE and you’ll conjure images of ever-changing hairstyles, sweet-smelling incense and colorful headwraps. But bug all that: The lady can sing, as she proves on her latest album, the recently released Testimony: Vol. 1, Life & Relationship. Employing a range that rivals Stevie Wonder, her deep, rich tone and complex — yet accessible — arrangements add soul to any tune she chooses to grace.
www.indiaarie.com.
Best Local Instrumentalist: Bobby Yang
Whether leaping burning Led Zeppelin riffs or standing still enough to balance a bar glass on his head while zooming through a Pagannini, violinist BOBBY YANG has gotten noticed in Atlanta during the few short years since moving here from Aspen, Colo. A musician of genuine range and depth, Yang is fully engaged in his performance, whether rock or classical. Some critics may dis violin as a delicate instrument with itty-bitty strings, but Yang makes it rock true with a signature style in live concert, without the tepid pablum that comes from so many billed as “crossover” artists and without merely throttling your brain with sheer volume.
www.bobbyyang.com.
Best Classical Music Act: Atlanta Symphony Orchestra & Chorus
The ATLANTA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA & CHORUS should be counted as one of the city’s true major-league teams, alongside the Braves. With more than 100 CDs and 23 Grammys among its members, the 95-member orchestra and its allied 200-member volunteer chorus have long shaken the foundations of that old-fashioned assumption that anything truly worthwhile in American classical music must come from New York City. The Braves have Turner Field, and the Falcons have the Georgia Dome. Now, the question is whether the community will pony up the cash to build the symphony a new hall designed by Santiago Calatrava.
www.atlantasymphony.org.
Best Local Rock Act: The Black Lips
Garbled garagists THE BLACK LIPS are a beautiful disaster spreading bruised pop like a social disease. Like everything about the Brian Jonestown Massacre, everything about the Black Lips music (and the band’s venue and label, Die Slaughterhaus) is DIY and art-damaged — frayed or faded — yet takes on supersaturated supersonics. This is surf rock clawing from a froth of psychedelic phlegm dripping from Spanish moss. On stage, the chaos is fluid — and may even spread some fluids. The Black Lips may not technically play rock best, but they will rock you best.
www.myspace.com/theblacklips.
Best Local Emo Act: Cartel
CARTEL’s music is big: beefy hooks, a ringing voice in group leader Will Pugh, and an ambition to become one of the country’s best emo bands. Thanks to its workaholic ethic, the band’s fizzy lead single “Honestly” has become an MTV favorite. Its second album, Chroma, nestled on the national charts nearly a year after its fall 2005 release. The best way to hear Cartel, however, is live, where Pugh’s generous, melodic voice shines brightest.
www.cartelrocks.com.
Best Local Country Music Act: No River City
NO RIVER CITY is a rustic combo that sure has somethin’ flowin’. The actively touring quintet can range from twangy rue to resolute roots stomp, or it can marry the two. Equal parts the Band, Jon Brion, Will Oldham and Blue Rodeo, No River City plays from a wavering foundation of dusky folk as expansive as a Big Sky sunset, multihued and quietly heartbreaking. An upcoming full-length album — sessions of which are previewed on MySpace — exhibits artfully faded Americana and bucolic vistas. And a fertile No River City runs through it.
www.myspace.com/norivercity.
Best Local Singer/songwriter: Anna Kramer
What sets ANNA KRAMER apart from the troubadour masses isn’t just the honesty in her songs, but her ability to wander through an array of musical styles while maintaining her own identity. Kramer’s voice is more honest-to-goodness human than seductress. Rather wielding feelings like a club, she confronts highs and lows with authentic emotions that bend to expose the subtleties in her songs. Kramer’s modest presence breathes realism into her performances whether she’s traversing country-music desolation and Kinks-style Brit rock, or simply covering Buck Owens, Buddy Holly or Carl Perkins. Sweet melancholy is as much her calling card as is her rockabilly twang.
www.annakramer.net.
Best Local Blues Act: The Wood Brothers
Singer, songwriter and guitarist Oliver Wood enjoys a sizable following for his heavy blues band, King Johnson. So it’s no surprise that Ways Not to Lose, his album with younger brother Chris Wood (bassist for Medeski, Martin & Wood), turned out to be an engaging and incisive folk-blues delight. THE WOOD BROTHERS strip Oliver’s songs down to the chords, with nothing but the two strumming away on their instruments. The numbers are piercing and stark, unveiling a lifetime of hard-won victories and hard-earned lessons.
www.thewoodbrothers.com.
Local R&B/soul Act: Algebra
It took damn-near forever, but local soul vocalist ALGEBRA finally broke onto the national scene. Born and raised in Atlanta, Algebra has been kicking around locally for years. She signed to Dallas Austin’s Rowdy Records while still a student at North Atlanta High School, then spent a year on Motown Records — all without releasing an album. But check VH1 Soul or BET-J and you’ll see her video, “U Do It for Me,” in heavy rotation — and that’s a rare feat for A-town soul folks. Expect to hear much more of her Southern rap-meets-soul stylings after her debut album drops sometime this fall on Kedar Entertainment.
www.myspace.com/algebrablessett.
Best Local Hip-hop Act: Purple Ribbon All-Stars
It’s been a big year for big butts, particularly for Big Boi’s PURPLE RIBBON ALL-STARS. Every rap label has its token white boy, and Purp’s Bubba Sparxxx paid dividends with his smash hit, “Ms. New Booty.” Aside from that, the Purple Ribbon All-Stars created the best of the many Atlanta theme songs this year with their radio and club banger, “Kryptonite.” Superman ain’t got shit on that. The crew pulled off a successful and productive year, all while reppin’ our city: “Pimp if you want them, you can find them in the A.”
www.purpleribbonallstars.com.
Best Snap Music Act: Dem Franchize Boys
Some will rightfully argue over who pioneered the snap music sound, but DEM FRANCHIZE BOYZ — Buddie, Jizzal Man, Parlae and Pimpin — are the group making a lasting impression. Their pair of hits, “I Think They Like Me” and “Lean Wit It, Rock Wit It,” exemplifies snap’s kinetic yet quiet energy, even as its debut album, On Top of Our Game, incorporates other hardcore rap styles to create a sonically balanced listening experience. Of course, superstar producer Jermaine Dupri’s patronage certainly didn’t hurt the group in becoming more than just a Bankhead sensation.
www.demfranchizeboyz.com.
Best Local Jazz Act: Takana Miyamoto
Pianist TAKANA MIYAMOTO is probably the hardest-working lady in the Atlanta jazz scene. She plays weekly at local clubs; records and performs solo and with collaborators such as Julie Dexter and Lizz Wright; fronts two divergent bands (the Takana Miyamoto Trio and the ATLove Project); runs a music festival in Japan; and even finds time to teach piano lessons. With a musical style that skews from straight-ahead to acid jazz, Miyamoto expects to release a slew of recordings in the coming months.
www.myspace.com/takananet.
Best Local Electronic Act: Evol Intent
Perhaps mashing drum ‘n’ bass troupe EVOL INTENT should change its name to “Evol Knievol.” After all, the Evol Intent trio has leapt some prodigious hurdles in the worldwide drum ‘n’ bass arena. Producing for labels such as Renegade Hardware, Human, and the group’s own Evol Intent Recordings, Evol Intent has placed grit-etched drum ‘n’ bass into DJs’ boxes worldwide. That’s not even when the three are DJing around the world, taking sounds inspired from gun-metal gray gangsta rap and grindcore, but never forsaking melody. A full-length album, as well as collaborations with locally based Ewun, Mayhem and Adult Swim are scheduled.
www.myspace.com/evolintent.
Best Local Experimental Music Act: Deerhunter
DEERHUNTER’s most compelling asset is its penchant for unpredictability. No two performances are the same, yet the group’s cerebral fingerprint shines through its constantly morphing presentations. Deerhunter balances earth-rattling drones with angelic cadences that dwell on the borders of coherent song structure, and it utilizes the blank spaces inside the notes, which leaves plenty of room to roam around inside a wash of graceful guitar noise, clutter and kraut-rock rhythms. Its competent take on less-than-orthodox sounds blossomed in only a few short years from lo-fi, “kitchen avant-garde” home recordings to a viable tenant of the pop avant-garde that gives a nod to everyone from Rhys Chatham to Stereolab.
www.notownsound.net.
Best Local Traditional Folk Act: Elise Witt
To confine ELISE WITT to the narrow realm of “traditional folk” would be a mistake. True, those are her roots, and she’s careful not to lose sight of folk’s long-standing role in social change. Her “Open the Window” is destined to become a new signature song for change, in fact. With Witt, the notion of song that’s communal, rather than just performed by an artist, is important. But Witt’s absorption of song traditions from across the world -— what she describes as “global, local and homemade songs” -— says more about what folk represents in the 21st century.
http://www.mindspring.com/~emworld/">www.mindspring.com/~emworld/.
Best Local Jam Band: Blueground Undergrass
Ever since Jerry faded into the psychedelic sunset, followers of the Dead have been searching for a new groove. Fortunately, before the drugs wore off, Deadheads latched onto the music of BLUEGROUND UNDERGRASS, led by local banjoman the Rev. Jeff Mosier. The group’s finely crafted blend of bluegrass and boogie is both listenable and motivates some major butt-shaking. The Undergrass took a bit of a hiatus for a couple of years but came back in a big way with a powerful new release, Faces. It’s got a good beat, and you can Sufi-dance to it.
www.bluegroundundergrass.com.
Best Local Latin Music Act: Rua 6
The dearth of Latin-themed parties is long gone. There’s always somewhere to go to shake your booty to some buena música, and though international stars like Shakira and Marc Anthony make stops in Atlanta, you wouldn’t know of any local acts who play consistently throughout the year. Except, of course, if you’ve ever been to Loca Luna. A true mélange of culture, RÚA 6 plays every Friday and Saturday at the famed Latin restaurant/club. Originating from Panama, Brazil and the United States, its members describe their sound as “world music with a strong Brazilian accent.”
www.rua6.com.
Best Local Tribute Band: Van Heineken
Gasp! Pop-culture guru Jon Waterhouse leads a double life. By day, he’s a mild-mannered, erudite raconteur, lady charmer and astute wordsmith with a penchant for all things kitsch. By night, he wears wigs and spandex, dons the rock-and-roll persona of David Lee Roth, and leads the circus sideshow known as VAN HEINEKEN. In a tepid pool of tribute bands, Waterhouse and his buddies’ homage to Van Halen is king. Tongue firmly in cheek, they re-create a snarky salute to the Roth-era VH, complete with dancers, assorted freaks and, oh yeah, the songs that make us all hot for teacher.
www.vanheineken.com.
Best Use Of Sharpie On Flesh: Elizabeth Elkins
Many rockers are heavily inked with colorful tattoos, but look closely at the Swear’s intense but beguilingly beautiful ELIZABETH ELKINS. You’ll notice self-inflicted graffiti, scrawled in punky black ink on her arm or chest. Yep, right there on her otherwise creamy skin, you’ll find an intriguing array of cryptic or self-referential words or phrases. An hour or so before each show, the roaring rocker takes Sharpie in hand and scribbles an impromptu message: “I draw from various song lyrics of my own and from my favorite writers, books, poetry or anything tongue-in-cheek, vaguely self-depreciating or whatever fits my state of mind that night.”
www.theswear.com.
Best Reason to Buy A Nintendo Classic: Contraband
If you pick up a classic console, you can infinitely replay the eight-bit jams performed live by CONTRABAND, the alter ego of Athens’ post-hardcore math-rock quartet Cinemechanica. Additionally, you can train to be a featured player in one of the group’s shows: Contraband performs the soundtrack to the classic NES game Contra while lucky participants attempt to beat the game live. There’s even an official “dance”: up, up, down, down, left, right, left, right, B, A, start. Even though you can’t use the secret 30-lives code during a performance, turn it into an interpretive dance and you’ll be invincible on the dancefloor. It’s hipper than the Lean Back or even the Cha-Cha Slide. Not since Mario laid his first pipe has Nintendo Classic been this energizing.
www.myspace.com/nintendorock2.
Best Local Concert Promoter: Tight Bros. Network
As club promotion crew TIGHT BROS. NETWORK knows all too well, rock and roll is a messy thing. Randy Castello and Nisa Asokan mostly operate out of Drunken Unicorn, where Castello is the booking agent. Since 2001, Tight Bros. has been shepherding the world’s fringe-dwellers — from well-known auteurs like Diplo, Acid Mothers Temple and Wolf Eyes to local dissidents like Deerhunter and Untied States — to successful Atlanta shows and blown minds.
www.tightbros.net/tightbros.html.
Best Local Club Promoter: Liquified
The glow sticks and UFOs may have matured into iPods and Diesels, but the party still rocks whenever Liquid Groove — ahem, LIQUIFIED, in its middle age — is throwing it. For 12 years now, powerhouse promoter Devin Walkley and his team have brought everyone from progressive king Sasha to drum and bass triumvirate Dieselboy, Dara and AK 1200 to venues all over town — though Liquified now calls Eleven50 home base for most of its events. While other promoters have slowed down or faded away, Walkley’s crew not only has survived but has improved with time.
www.liquified.com.
Best Local Label: Arc the Finger Records
In May, ARC THE FINGER RECORDS celebrated its fourth anniversary. Its dedication to quality hip-hop and sound business practices ensures plenty more birthdays to come. A refreshingly real alternative to ATL’s love for snappin’-and-rappin,’ the label continues expanding its highly anticipated A3C Independent Hip-Hop Festival, scheduling another for April 2007. With label leaders like Psyche Origami, a national release from Intellekt and Dirty Digits coming this month, a showcase of ATF artists at Atlantis Music Conference, and co-production of shows like Jurassic 5, the Boot Camp Clik and DJ Krush, Arc the Finger is constantly on (see its blog, ConstantlyOn.com), and the true heads are so glad it is.
130 Boulevard. 404-339-0051. www.arcthefinger.com.
Best Georgia-based band MySpace page: Mastodon
MySpace is the 21st-century equivalent of a Trapper Keeper binder — it’s covered in unicorns, dragons, notes from friends, and rock ‘n’ roll fantasies. Except now you don’t just scratch “MASTODON Rulez!” in red ink, you can also link to the band’s profile, make a logo background or embed a song. Fittingly, heavy music fans have embraced MySpace, and CL deems the logo worthiest of being scrawled in the biggest block letters to be our own local metal leviathans. Over the summer months, Mastodon’s profile became a compulsory click for previews of Blood Mountain, the epic album from arguably Atlanta’s sickest act. The page also features links to behind-the-scenes videos, old photos and more. Though seemingly incessant road warriors, Mastodon always maintains a home on the Net.
www.myspace.com/mastodon.
Best Georgia-based Music Blog: www.kissatlanta.com
Local DJ, promoter and band manager Preston Craig launched KISSATLANTA.COM in March 2005, according to its first post, “so that people might gain a better understanding as to what the driving force is behind the music and venues in Atlanta.” In just over a year, it’s made impressive strides toward that goal, from chatting up new cultural obsessions to disseminating information on hot new local bands. The blog now features several local writers alongside Craig’s acerbic yet enthusiastic prose, all dedicated to chronicling Atlanta’s indie-rock scene.
www.kissatlanta.com.
Best Concert Venue: Variety Playhouse
1099 Euclid Ave.
[map]
404-524-7354
http://www.variety-playhouse.com
You can get to the VARIETY PLAYHOUSE early and find a comfortable seat where you can see, or you can get there late and join the standing-room-only crowd right against the stage. Either way, the sound is consistently clear, the bar has decent beer on tap at fair prices, and management pushes smokers out in the alley where they belong. You can even dodge the Ticketmaster charges and buy direct from the box office Monday through Friday, noon-6 p.m. It doesn’t get better, only bigger — and, as they say, size isn’t everything.
Best Place To Hear Local Music: The Earl
488 Flat Shoals Ave.
[map]
404-522-3950
http://www.badearl.com
Throughout 2006, there’s been an ongoing debate around the office: Does fried okra and nitrates on a stick make music better? Well, recent trips to THE EARL have confirmed that yes, a little salt of the earth makes for a meatier experience. Not that anyone was concerned about the quality of music at the Earl to begin with. We turn to the Earl not just because we’re hungry in our tummies but also because we’re hungry in our hearts for that prime grade-A local music.
Best Rock Club: Lenny's
486 Decatur St.
[map]
404-577-7721
http://www.lennysbar.com
All sorts of musical acts perform on LENNY’S stage — the ongoing experimentation of Kirkwood Ballers Club, hip-hop from the 2nd Sight Crew, and various others — but no club in Atlanta embodies the punk-rock spirit more. Over time, the club’s boast of being the “CBGB’s of Atlanta” has proven largely true. Local groups like Brass Castle, the Selmanaires and the Carbonas frequent the stage, as do label showcases from Rob’s House and Stickfigure. When a show sold out the 150-capacity venue, it really felt as though a band could tear the place down. Shoot, the recent eviction of the Memorial Drive location only earns it more punk points as club employees and supporters pitched in helping hands and their trucks to move equipment.
Best Acoustic Music Club: Eddie's Attic
515-B N. McDonough St.
[map]
404-377-4976
http://www.eddiesattic.com
There’s a reason EDDIE’S ATTIC dominates this category year after year — the venue earns it! Even changes in ownership (now in the loving hands of Bob Ephlin) haven’t affected the quality of the bookings or the exquisite audio sound fans have come to expect. The local, regional and national performers love it, the audience loves it, and you ain’t a real Atlantan until you have been shushed by the Eddie’s Attic staff. With Bob and the titular Eddie at the helm, the Attic maintains a high degree of national respect. Besides, you gotta love the Monday Night Open Mike Shootouts.
Best Blues Club: Northside Tavern
1058 Howell Mill Road
[map]
404-874-8745
http://www.northsidetavern.com/
Other clubs may have luxuries such as nice tables, easily accessible bathrooms, parking spaces and stages that can be seen from everywhere in the room. But NORTHSIDE TAVERN has the personality that makes a soundtrack of your troubles or helps you forget them. The club also pulls in personalities, including the working-class stiffs from the junk yard across the street, starving students from the Tech campus, and even a few spillover hipsters from nearby Compound.
Best Country Music Club: The Swallow at the Hollow
1072 Green St.
[map]
678-352-1975
http://www.theswallowatthehollow.com
In Roswell, there’s a nondescript but delicious barbecue restaurant that’s a bit too easy to miss. Every weekend, THE SWALLOW AT THE HOLLOW treats fans to intimate performances by musicians whose names and faces may not be too familiar but have impressive songwriting credentials. Modeled after Nashville’s famed Bluebird Cafe, the Swallow has become the premiere local listening spot for country music’s most prolific and successful songcrafters. Getting up close and personal in the room makes the experience even more exciting, and while the booking focus tends to be more on artists whose songs represent mainstream, radio-friendly country music, hearing the hits without all the obtuse production is a treat.
Best Dance Club: MJQ Concourse
736 Ponce de Leon Place
[map]
404-870-0575
http://www.mjqatlanta.com
The predictably unpredictable nature of MJQ CONCOURSE keeps crowds rolling in. In theory, a “best dance club” has a huge dancefloor, but MJQ has a packed dancefloor, which is much more fun. Clubs don’t often age gracefully — in fact, most are lucky if they make it through the first year. But not MJQ. Between its regularly scheduled programming of Brit pop, hip-hop, reggae and rare grooves, the club manages to throw in weird theme nights like lingerie parties, blood wrestling, homecoming events and cowboys vs. ninjas (we can’t explain if you weren’t there). Plus, it books the hippest-of-the-hip DJs. No matter what the entertainment, though, a night at the Q, is almost always a damn good time.
Best Jazz Club: Churchill Grounds
660 Peachtree St.
[map]
404-876-3030
http://www.churchillgrounds.com
Sometimes a quiet evening of jazz is better than a night in a loud and smoky rock club. Yeah, we know that sounds crazy. But one visit to CHURCHILL GROUNDS, and we were hooked. The elegant, cozy venue is a classy alternative to scuzzy rock venues. It’s an excellent place to take a special date: Have a glass of wine, relax, and let a night of music work its magic (you’ll just need to close the deal). But, first and foremost, it’s a great place to see intimate performances by a variety of jazz greats and up-’n’-comers. Located to the right of the historic Fox Theatre on Peachtree, Churchill Grounds has a stately, affluent vibe, so ditch the sneakers and dress nice for a change, OK?
Best Karaoke Night: Karaoke Tuesdays
789 Ponce De Leon Ave.
[map]
404-874-4783
http://www.clermontlounge.net
Fortunately, the drinks are cheap and stiff at Atlanta’s most surreal setting, the fallout shelter/basement called the Clermont Lounge. At KARAOKE TUESDAYS, you’re going to need a few shots to numb the terror of watching someone who could be your grandma get nekkid and sing Kelly Clarkson. Add a few more if you plan to build up the courage to perform in front of the abusive but funny host, Rotknee.
Best Latin Club: La Rumba Night Club
6317 Roswell Road
[map]
404-303-1814
It used to be that if you wanted a good night of hip-shaking, booty-peppering, sweat-inducing salsa, you’d have to wait for that time of the month, er, when the Vacilón party was held at various restaurants all over town. Things have changed. Even though promoters still like to make the Miami connection (dropping a moniker like “South Beach” somewhere in the description of an after-dark Latino event), LA RUMBA NIGHT CLUB is the truest spot in the ATL for salsa, merengue, reggaeton and other moves from south of the border. Just outside the Perimeter on Roswell Road, La Rumba transforms itself each weekend to pack in crowds of people from all kinds of nationalities and backgrounds — even gringos.
Best Urban Music Club: Apache Cafe
64 Third St.
[map]
404-876-5436
http://www.apachecafe.info
For years it’s been known as “the club formerly known as Yin Yang Cafe,” but no one can deny that APACHE CAFÉ established its own name in 2005. And over the past year, the club has played host to a number of near-classic performances — from a comeback show for local soul-hero Donnie to a rare set by the Brooklyn-based house trio Tortured Soul. Dream about the glory days of Yin Yang if you want, but you’ll be missing out on some amazing shit if you don’t get your mind back into the present.
Best “Best Club” Curse: If a club gets national attention, it closes
Atlanta clubs shouldn’t strive to be the “best club,” just a really good club. In Atlanta, for some strange reason, IF A CLUB GETS NATIONAL ATTENTION, IT CLOSES. Think about this: When Jermaine Dupri showcased our nightlife in “Welcome to Atlanta,” most of the clubs he mentioned closed shortly after. Velvet Room? Closed. Kaya? Closed. Kream? Closed. Shark Bar? Closed. Club 112? Open, but it moved from the original location to Peachtree Street and, frankly, has never been the same. This year’s victim? Vision (which sat on the hallowed grounds of Kaya). Dupri didn’t shout out Vision, but celebs started flying into town to hold events at the newly renovated mega-club. Alas, Vision’s lot will become lofts. Take note, club owners: Be successful, just not too successful.
Best Club Anthem: Yung Joc's "It's Goin' Down"
Mix together a hypnotic five-key piano melody played like an arpeggio, and a growled, perfectly timed chorus. What do you get? YUNG JOC’s “IT’S GOIN’ DOWN,” a brash club anthem that you heard seemingly everywhere. How did this snap music/crunk hybrid become a catchphrase among mallrats and dope boys alike? It’s all in Yung Joc’s pronunciation, as he says the title like a country-fried Fonzie: “It’s goin’ dowwwwn.”
www.yungjoc.com.
Best Mixtape DJs: Aphilliates
In the capital of the Southern hip-hop movement, the APHILLIATES DJ camp (Don Cannon, Drama, Sense, Jamad, Ox Banga, and Jaycee) speaks loudly. You can hear them on “Gangsta Grillz,” a popular Saturday night show on Hot 107.9 FM that peppers the airwaves with phrases like “trendsetter” and “cannon!” But the crew is best known for its mix CDs. The mixes, from DJ Drama’s Gangsta Grillz series to DJ Jamad’s soul-oriented Afromentals, are hotly collected and dissected by rap fans and major media outlets. They know the Aphilliates trumpets up-and-coming artists well before the rest of the country. Young Jeezy and T.I. are two major examples.
www.theaphilliates.com.
Best Newcomer Club DJ: DJ Drew Van Atten
Having lived his entire life in the ever-increasing bulge that we call Atlanta (we know this ‘cause his mom was once a Loafer), DJ DREW VAN ATTEN knows controlled mess, which could help explain his affinity for dropping scuffed, skuzzy tech- and electro-house. Around these parts, industrial and industrious mutation is a way of life — iconic buildings leap up overnight. Same goes for Van Atten’s turntable trajectory. It’s almost like one minute he’s a fist in the crowd, and next thing, he’s got the crowds in his fist — on all the haute bills opening for the likes of Damian Lazarus, Uffie and other Cleaning Up the Dirty South events. It all adds up to a metallic-meets-melody, bleepin’ good time. Exhibiting a savvy sense of selection, Van Atten is hopefully an ear to stay.
www.myspace.com/drewvanatten.
Best After Hours/Late-Night Spot: Decatur Social Club
141 Sycamore St.
[map]
404-377-3311
http://www.ragingburrito.com/azul.htm
When the bars in Fulton County began closing at 2:30 a.m., we sorta thought people might start going out earlier to pack in the same amount of party time. Fashionably early, it seems, never caught on. The party still doesn’t get hopping till just before closing time. Thankfully, you can drop late into the DECATUR SOCIAL CLUB. Every Friday, Azul turns into an indie-rock dance party with organizer Preston Craig and a rotating cast of DJs including Jamal, the_chuck, and DJDJ Dylan, as well as special guests. The usual crowd is excessively hip: We recently heard you can view dudes in berets. OK. So, if the berets aren’t enough of a draw, it’s free before 1 a.m. and a mere $2 cover after that.
Best Weekly Club Night: Thursdays at the Mark
79 Poplar St.
[map]
678-904-0050
http://www.themarkatlanta.com
Although drum ’n’ bass may not be the average person’s choice of music, THURSDAYS AT THE MARK offer up consistency, quality DJs, a supportive venue and a loyal crowd. You can chill upstairs and absorb at a distance the sounds of DJs such as Black Sun Empire and Optical, while you sip cocktails concocted by the bashful but sure-to-get-you-tipsy bartender Gerson. Or you can creep downstairs and take in the aural amps among hardcore steppers, breakers, sexy scenesters and happy-hour hangers-on (after all, there’s free Sweetwater to kickstart the festivities). Anthony Rotella and his 404Audio.com crew have helped unite the DNB scene over the night’s two years, and club owner Pablo Henderson’s had his back. Look for 404Audio.com to bring a new addition to the DNB community next to Endenu this fall, where the subculture will continue its transit to a wider audience via clothes, video and fingerprint- and warp-free vinyl.
Best Burlesque Performer: Monkey Zuma
MONKEY ZUMA takes the banana crème cake when it comes to beast burlesque performer. Wait, “best”? Well, that too, if for no other reason than she never breaks character. She even brings her own bananas. She began as a go-go dancer for circus-themed band Greasepaint but has since been adopted by Atlanta’s most creative burlesque troupe, Dames Aflame. She also apes the guys in Tongo Hiti at Trader Vic’s. You shouldn’t get this turned on by a monkey, but …
www.damesaflame.com.
Best Camp Drag Queen: Bubba D'Licious
Laughter can cure almost anything — just ask the countless number of people whom BUBBA D’LICIOUS has helped over the years. Then, you’ll understand the power of a man in a dress. Since 1989, Jim Mark’s alter-ego has helped raise more than $3.5 million for HIV/AIDS resources. And for the last 10 years, Bubba has presided over bingo every second Thursday to raise money for PALS (Pets Are Loving Support). Even corporate America has fallen under the spell of Bubba’s over-the-top slapstick humor: Volkswagen uses his mug to sell cars, and Miller Lite’s created a Bubba bobblehead doll.
www.bubbadlicious.net.
Best Glam Drag Queen: Nicole Paige Brooks
Local drag celebrity NICOLE PAIGE BROOKS is like one big “Mindfreak” episode storming through town, taking the art of illusion to a level that Criss Angel can’t even touch. Just ask the countless number of straight men and lesbians how they felt after finding out the hottie they were hitting on was actually a dude. Even the RGs (real girls) envy Nicole’s killer legs. Beyond being a hot piece of ass, Nicole works with YouthPride, an organization that creates a safe haven for young homosexuals. And speaking of homosexuals, this year Ms. Brooks also graced the cover of David magazine. She’s also become an in-demand host for all the best gay events across the country.
www.nicolepaigebrooks.com.
Best Straight Bar: Andrew's Upstairs
56 East Andrews Drive, Suite 13
[map]
404-467-1600
http://www.andrewsupstairs.com
Let’s face it, in Buckhead, just about any bar is fertile grounds for girls and boys on the prowl. But ANDREWS UPSTAIRS comes closest to the perfect straight bar. Just look at the place. Live music, a well-stocked bar, intimate booths, big, comfy couches, and a parade of beautiful patrons make this a hot spot when that spot is hot, if ya know what we’re saying. The 400-capacity love nest, which is perched above the East Andrews Cafe, also is an upscale music and entertainment venue with a fertile schedule of local, regional and national acts, DJs, movie nights and theme events. Although original music is presented, quite often the featured act is one of those crazy tribute bands that seem to breed like rabbits somewhere. It’s not uncommon to find a Bon Jovi or Led Zeppelin cover band on stage here, reproducing the hits that spawned a generation or two.
Best Gay Bar: Jungle
2115 Faulkner Road
[map]
404-844-8800
http://www.jungleclub.net
When the legendary Backstreet closed its doors, Atlanta’s nightlife scene had already experienced major blows and was losing its big-city club creditability. Fortunately, the spirit, passion and soul of those days still lives at JUNGLE every Saturday. In the space formerly inhabited by the Chamber, owner Brad Williams and the old-school values of Ovah Productions prove Atlanta still knows how to party. Jungle brings in worldwide DJ talent like Tracy Young, which in turn packs the venue with freaky club kids and sweaty, shirtless guys as far as the dilated eye can see.
Best Lesbian Bar: The Red Chair
550-C Amsterdam Ave., NE
[map]
404-870-0532
http://www.redchairatlanta.com
Saturday nights at THE RED CHAIR feels like watching an episode of Showtime’s super sexy hit series, “The L Word.” The lesbian wet dream finally became a reality when promoter Liz Owens lent her magic touch to the hottest girl party in the Southeast. Weekly guest DJs like local favorite Kim Crawford drop hip-grinding beats for the jam-packed crowd of lipstick lesbians, drag kings and gay-boy admirers, while the occasional wet T-shirt contest helps make Red Chair the place to be for true lady-loving fun.
Best Dive Bar: The Phoenix
567 Ponce De Leon Ave Ne
[map]
404-892-7871
Stepping into THE PHOENIX is like walking onto a David Lynch movie set. The oddly lit bar hosts a cast of characters who will leave you entertained, a little scared and sometimes straight-up perplexed. If a few cop cars or an ambulance happens to be out front, just consider all the flashing lights your disco-welcome wagon to Ponce’s days gone by. You know, before the condos drove away the streetwalkers and such. The Phoenix is a little time capsule, which has remained the home for a slew of street creatures, leather daddies and curious onlookers for 19 years. In other words, the real neighbors.
Best Sports Bar: Famous Pub and Sports Palace
2947 N. Druid Hills Road
[map]
404-633-3555
http://www.famouspubsports.com
With two giant projector screens and dozens more televisions scattered about, FAMOUS PUB AND SPORTS PALACE has a setup that allows you to watch every game all at once. It’s a sports fan’s version of heaven, replete with loaded bar, great greasy food, six pool tables, sports-themed arcade games and plenty of SEC and NASCAR memorabilia filling up the walls. Don’t get too excited, though — there’s enough good stuff at the Palace to make the true sports fan pee in his full-body racesuit.
Best Comedy Club: Uptown Comedy Corner
800 Marietta St.
[map]
404-881-0200
This year, UPTOWN COMEDY CORNER returned to Atlanta better than before. In the few months since its reopening, the club has featured Paul Mooney among other big names in urban comedy, held auditions for HBO’s “Def Comedy Jam,” hosted the taping of Robert Townsend’s “Partners in Crime” for the Black Family Channel, and convinced the city of Atlanta to reinstate its liquor license. The venue itself is by far the most aesthetically pleasing and largest of Georgia’s comedy clubs. Plus, it has some fine-looking waitresses. Comedians beware, however. If you’re wack, the audience will boo you right off the stage.
Best Bowling Alley: Midtown Bowl
1936 Piedmont Circle
[map]
404-874-5703
http://www.midtownbowl.com
Inspired by L.A.’s Lucky Strike Lanes, the revamped MIDTOWN BOWL brings the concept of boutique alleys to Atlanta. Opened in 1960, the 32-lane emporium now boasts a retro feel inside and out, with brand-new furniture, a state-of-the art scoring system and a full-service bar that features 30 bottled beers, six draft beers, wine and top-shelf liquor. You may not be able to bowl a 300 yet, but with kitschy fun available 24 hours a day and enough booze to ease the nerves, maybe you could one day.
Best New Neighborhood Bar: P'Cheen
701 Highland Ave. NE, #5
[map]
404-529-8800
“Here you are, two Hoes and a Hummer,” a waiter is overheard telling a trio of ladies. He’s talking about beer: two Hoegaarten and one Sweetwater Summer Hummer. That kind of yak could lead to a quick eviction from the slickest ultralounge, but not from your casual crossroads pub, and that’s what P’CHEEN is for the “new” Old Fourth Ward. The convivial international bistro fare is not to be ignored. Neither are the kick-ass onion rings. But, at night, neighborly wayfarers congregate at P’Cheen for $2 PBR, Belgian brews, artfully balanced Guinness drafts and eclectic DJs. It’s become a beacon for booze at the boundary of a burgeoning ’hood.
Best Place for a Cheap Date: Starlight Six Drive-In
2000 Moreland Ave.
[map]
404-627-5786
http://www.starlightdrivein.com
Remember the first time you went to a drive-in theater? The thrill of being up past your bedtime and crawling around the car in your pajamas may have overshadowed the movie. The STARLIGHT SIX DRIVE-IN can take you back to those youthful days — only the experience is a bit more fun with a hot guy or girl instead of your mom and dad. Chances are the movie still will take a backseat to everything else — especially if you toss a six-pack into the plan. You may even still want to crawl around the car seats at some point in time, just without the pajamas.
Best Place for an Expensive Date: How would we know?
How would we know? Do you know how much journalists make? Why don’t you check out some of those fancy restaurants in the ORAL PLEASURES section.
