Funky beats make tasty treats.

My definition of a pleasant surprise is unexpectedly partying to a live set by Wolfgang Gartner, and so went Wednesday night. With only a few hours notice, I found myself on South Beach getting down to some funky beats provided by this top house DJ. He performed to a packed club at LIV, where lit-up dome ceilings provided a technicolor substitute for the night sky, and if you could find the room to shake your hips you were unable to stop. 

For a short and sweet little taste of Wolfgang Gartner's style, check out his version of the original 5th Symphony below. Fortunately, one track does not do this guy's style justice; he's a man of many tricks when it comes to making you move your feet. So, I added a couple more gems, to get you on your way to a dance party of your own.

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Twenty Three White Balloons.

How many clubs can you name that have thrived for more than 20 years? The list is short, and Respectable Street Cafe is on it. The past few posts have been heavy on the Respectables, but that's mostly because the club managed to turn the month of July into one non-stop party. From performances by Black Kids and Sleigh Bells, to guest DJ's like Jason Tyler; they concluded the month by celebrating their 23rd year on the scene. As expected, this was the rowdiest party of all; shutting down a city block and enlisting 23 bands to play all night long- well, until around one a.m., and then the DJ's took over.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

More trumpet always trumps less.

Jason Tyler stopped by Respectable Street Thursday night along his Dance Party OMG tour. He returned seven months after a stellar night last December to an audience anticipating an equally energetic performance, and he delivered. 

Listen for a few moments, and it's easy, almost impossible not to quickly become a fan. Tyler's style is unique, interjecting solo trumpet breaks throughout his otherwise non-stop dance party (OMG) sets. Personally, as a former band geek, anytime a performer busts out an unexpected instrument, my feet get dancing.

Jason Tyler

Because both performances were particularly enjoyable, I went fishing through my files and found photos from the December show. I've been inspired to post some in addition to those from last night, for your viewing pleasure. And, if you'd like to hear some of Tyler's jams (for your listening pleasure), you can find him on hypem.com - but nothing beats seeing the show for yourself. 

Moving Pictures.

My time condemned to the indoors, anxiously awaiting a friend to swing by, scoop me up and carry me off on an adventure (and there have been a few these past three months), is coming to a close. Finally, I regain my freedom, my ability to jump in my car in a flash, and embark on whatever fantastic voyage the world holds waiting for me in its hands.

Nothing beats the liberation of taking off when you least expect it and taking in the excitement of the moment. You feel the vibration in your bones, the pounding in your heart, the butterflies in your stomach; your brain is buzzing and you just know you're in for something good. An ethereal song lends itself to the quiet anticipation of whatever thrills await you. Cruising at a steady pace down a deserted and never - ending road, while catching glimpse of a breathtaking vista, sunset or on the rare occasion, sunrise ...how can you beat it? The euphoria and serenity of knowing you are where you're supposed to be at that moment in time makes arriving at your destination that much more exceptional once you get there.

I have put together a miniature play list, special for you, of my some of my long - time and recent favorites, for moments like these. So, do me a favor and turn it up, roll down your windows and enjoy the ride.

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