Bootleggers, located at 1023 N. Old World 3rd St, is the latest entrant to the up and coming Old World 3rd Street scene. Long a staple for destinations such as Buck Bradley’s, Have a Nice Day Cafe, Buckhead Saloon and Cafe Vecchio Mondo; the recent addition of Bootleggers and its neighbor Tutto are sure to continue to add to the excitement of the street.

Two floors of indoor entertainment in addition to a third rooftop floor make for a great space to tip a few beers or throw massive weekend parties. Amongst the vast amount of party space and flat screen TV’s Bottleggers features a DJ Booth, a stage for live acts, pool tables, dart boards and sofa lounges - all certain to provide a wide array of entertainment possibilities.

Without much fan fare Bootleggers showcased its capabilities on the weekend of Riversplash 2008 treating customers to a friendly and social staff that seemed willing to socialize and accommodate our requests for tall drinks, information and photographs.

A beautifully designed space, Bootleggers is sure to please a wide audience so be sure to stop by and hang out.

Bootleggers
1023 N. Old World 3rd St
http://bootleggersmke.com/
http://www.myspace.com/bootleggersmke

With the smell of paint still fresh in the air Apartment 720 became the latest nightlife destination to add itself to Milwaukee’s lineup. Deep black walls with paisley white accents provide the backdrop for the high contrast club. One part night club, one part underground cellar, the multipurpose venue seems to be positioned to invite a wide variety of nightlife entertainment. If the acts lined up to christen the venue are any indication I’m sure that is exactly what is ahead.

DJ Delicious opened the night followed by guests of honor Dave Navarro and DJ Scribble. Exciting, high energy sets provided an intense focal point for the evening.

Staff wore traditional black outfits along with face paint. It wasnt clear (to me) what the costumes and makeup were supposed to represent but it certainly added to the special event feeling of the night.

Its difficult to tell from the pictures but one thing that really struck me besides the wall design was the excellent lighting. Very design oriented and creative - it added a great deal to the ambiance for me. It’s an element I think is overlooked at many venues.

Short (but strong) drinks were around $7.00 for top shelf mixers.

Be sure to check out this latest Milwaukee hot spot.

Apartment 720 is located at 720 N. Milwaukee Street between Wisconsin Avenue and Mason Street.

On the spur of a moment we decided to catch The Golden Compass on opening weekend.

I didn’t know much about the plot or premise of the movie beyond the blip or two I had seen on commercials, however being a news junkie I was aware of some of the buzz coming from some religious voices calling for followers to boycott the movie. Needless to say this only served to further pique my curiosity so I was anxious to check it out for myself.

The Golden Compass is very much a story in the vein of Harry Potter or The Lord of the Rings in the sense that the plot centers on a special child with a special destiny coupled with an epic journey. It was refreshing to see our hero cast as a girl but not a common stereotype of a girl but an actual person acting and behaving in gender neutral way.

The female actresses in this film are excellent and definitely take center stage. Both Nicole Kidman (Marisa Coulter) and Dakota Blue Richards, who plays the hero Lyra Belacqua, put completely believable performances. Again, the raw and human portrayal of Lyra was a refreshing change from the typical roles boys and girls too often play in movies.

I was skeptical of the overtures made in the news by the Catholic League and others but their concerns are certainly understandable after viewing the film. Of course as in any good versus bad epic such as Star Wars there is a group that encompasses and institutionalizes the evil. In the case of Star Wars it is the Empire and in the case of The Golden Compass it is the Magisterium where conformity and order and the spreading of doctrine are of the highest priority. It is difficult to avoid the overt similarities between The Magisterium and institutionalized religion. From their attire to their doctrine the references are too many to ignore. Modern mythologies all too many times make guarded and artistic references but it was refreshing to see this story being told unabashedly.

The final component of the film that I wish to describe are the ancillary characters that help draw the film together. The Polar Bears which you have undoubtedly seen are awesome. The characters are well placed, well conceived and useful to the plot. There are not too many names, places or people to keep track of which make the film easy to understand and follow although for some may make it a bit childish at times.

Part Epic Fantasy, part social commentary I found The Golden Compass to be a sometimes simple, easy to understand yet entertaining voyage.

Article and Photos by Brian J. Dell
With thanks to Mike & Olga Thomas

“Moderation is masturbation,
What is what, and what makes you feel good” - Stone Temple Pilots

Pornography is big business, in case you hadn’t heard. And Ron “The Hedgehog” Jeremy is the industry’s biggest luminary. On Sunday the fifth, he came to The Pabst Theater with “The Porn Pastor” Craig Gross, for the first in a series of debate stops across the country, focusing on what is one of the most divisive and uniquely unpredictable aspects of our media-immersed culture: porno.

When I got to the theater and eventually made my way to the box office, I was informed there had been a mix-up regarding me being on the guest list. Being a cheap bastard, I wandered back out onto the street, wondering if I should just go home or bite the bullet and pay the admission. At that point I ran into a videographer with an event badge around his neck who took me backstage, where I explained to some guy (who looked vaguely familiar) that I was supposed to be “on the list.” He quickly assured me it wasn’t an issue, and that I could just go upstairs and shoot. At this point it dawned on me that this was Craig, and as I walked up to the stage I passed a dressing room where I saw Ron getting ready. It was a brief glimpse at the calm before the storm which celebrities constantly put up with.

As they walked to their podiums, the moderator introduced Craig as a pastor and the founder of xxxchurch.com, a site dedicated to “exposing the truth about pornography.” Ron, aside from his infamous role in approx. 2,000 porno movies, was also noted as having experience in teaching and theater. They gave their opening remarks: Craig was not pro-censorship, but only wanted to help people who had bad experiences with pornography, which is a part of our culture that can’t be reconciled with his view of faith. Ron stated that porn is not intended for minors and since it is all by and for consenting adults, he saw no problem with it.

Right out of the gate the debaters were a bit testy, each making some sarcastic points at each other’s expense. Ron particularly did not seem thrilled that his choice of profession was on trial, pausing a few times to make sure he was rebutting all of Craig’s points. But as things progressed and Ron saw he had a number of supporters and fans in the crowd, the tone of the event became more casual, while still staying on-topic.

As any experienced debater knows, however, there are two vital parts of a discussion: finding points to agree upon, and exposing flaws in the opposing view. Their biggest commonalities were that they are both people of faith, and they are both against censorship. As for flaws, the mood started to turn when an audience member asked Craig about his view on homosexuality. He gave the most tolerant answer a devoutly religious person can give: that the Bible teaches homosexuality is a sin, and it is wrong, but that not everybody out there answers to the Bible and that is their choice. For his part, Ron had to field a rather uncomfortable internet-submitted question regarding what he would say if his daughter wanted to do porn. Making the “Oh, look at the time,” joke, he then went on to say it wouldn’t be his first choice, but that he was in no position to tell her she couldn’t, and would advise her to be smart about the choices involved.

But, in the end, everybody was laughing, people were shouting things from the audience, and the moderator seemed nearly defeated as everything spun out of control. A lot of the crowd clearly gravitated towards the famous pornographer and his liberal views, but afterwards in the lobby it seemed more people approached the pastor’s side of the merch table. If there was one lasting impression from both sides however, it was that pornography is a choice and should be considered responsibly… as for the audience, many gave the impression of a convention crowd: wide-eyed and drunk on celebrity.

For an alternate review by Mike Thomas, click here.

We had some wonderful food at Milwaukee’s latest Turkish / Mediterranean restaurant Tulip. While the address indicates its at 117 N Jefferson St we found the entrance to actually be on the corner of Milwaukee St and Erie St in Milwaukee’s Historic Third Ward but it wasnt too hard to find and when we did it was worth it.

Our group decided to entertain 5 different dishes between us as well as try a sampler appetizer platter which included any 4 items.

Each of us found at least one of the appetizers to be our favorite with mine being the yogurt based dip. We also tried the hummus, the dolmeh and a spicy tomato based dip shown below. Only complaint here is the appetizers didnt arrive with bread so we had to drool for several minutes while they delivered some more bread to the table.

The atmosphere was very consistent with what my imagination was expecting to find at a Turkish restaurant. Deep woods furnished the establishment with bright windows delivering light and airy contrast. The walls were a bit sparse with ethnic artwork, however I expect that details may be filled in or altered as the establishment gets its footing. There was also a nice patio outside that is conveniently positioned right on the corner of the street for ample scenery.

Several dark leather couches surround a fireplace in the middle of the restaurant providing a cozy, relaxing feel to the establishment. A nice, unique touch in my opinion which sets a pleasant atmosphere.

We ended our evening by dining on several delicious dishes. I ordered the lamb shank which was covered in cooked eggplant and served in a dish of sweet tomatoe sauce. We also tried the spicy meatball plate, the lamb shoulder and the apricot chicken. Their specialty dish, Iskender, is pictured below and is served with a side of yogurt that brings out the many wonderful flavors in the dish.

The chicken with apricot was exceptional as well. I intend to have the two dishes pictured when I return next time.

Of course no Turkish dinner is complete without a Turkish coffee so make sure you give this strong potion a try after your done eating. Entree’s were priced between $14 and $17 for the most part. Our tab including drinks for 6 came to $149.00 without tip so that averaged about $35.00 per person with tip (and cocktails) for what we all would consider an excellent and unique meal.

For more photographs and discussion about Tulip, join us on our Discussion Boards.

Complete Photo Shoot: http://www.themilwaukeescene.com/photos/tulip-071707

Discuss: http://www.themilwaukeescene.com/forum/index.php/topic,3317.0.html

117 N Jefferson St
Milwaukee, WI 53202
(414) 273-5253

by Jack Roman

Just a little bit south of the bright lights of downtown, on K.K. near Logan Street in Bay View, there is a little shop with a big reputation. The shop is Fashion Ninja boutique, and its reputation is growing as the heart of the independent fashion design community in Milwaukee.

“If I had a microphone and the world’s attention I would tell everyone about the power to make a difference in their community by buying local products,” preaches Areka Ikeler, owner and “Sensei” of Fashion Ninja boutique and the Fashion Ninja School of Sewing and Design. Her boutique and school sells the original designs from the brightest of her 500 plus total students.

Helping to spread the message of purchasing from your local community is www.FashionFlat.com, a website that exclusively features independent fashion designers. While FashionFlat is locally based, it is also larger than just the Fashion Ninja. Currently there are five designers featured on the site which serves as a unifying force amongst fashionistas both locally and nationally. In addition to Areka, of Fashion Ninja, there is Kristy Schomburg of Bill Label, Stevie of ICEBARK and Rochelle Nason of LACKA; all four from Milwaukee, and all four sell their clothes in the Fashion Ninja store. The website also features Sue Havens of Cozy Hoods, who is a designer and artist working out of Brooklyn, NY.

The name FashionFlat is actually a play on words. “The idea behind FashionFlat.com is exactly that, a flat where independent fashion lives,” says website founder Kristy Schomburg, who spends considerable time at the Fashion Ninja store and school. Through the website the ladies offer not only their individual fashion styles, but it is also a “home” for a strong community of independent designers.

Building a community of independent designers is what the website, the school and the store are all about. Areka, who has loved fashion her entire life and studied at the Mt. Mary College Fashion Design program, says there is a real passion in her students to learn and try new things. She also stresses the importance of supporting local fashion scene. “All the small shops make Milwaukee bright. Just one shop is not fun, but 40 shops make it an interesting place to shop,” says Areka. And the designers all agree.

LACKA designer, Rochelle, says small stores and websites give her the opportunity to talk to customers about why it is important to support local business as well as showcase her work. “I think it is perfect for independent designers to get their collections out there.” Rochelle got her start in fashion from a sewing machine handed down from her late grandmother. Mostly self-taught, with a few classes from Areka, Rochelle draws inspiration for LACKA from the hours she spent honing her craft.

Another former student and designer Stevie whose label ICEBARK features hand painted garments, says she likes when someone can appreciate the sweat equity it takes to make a garment. That is why she enjoys being a part of the community. “I have always been artistic, so I decided to teach myself to do design. I design and sell things that I like, thinking that if I like it maybe other people do to.”

Bill Label designer Kristy has different motivations for getting involved in fashion. She relishes the excitement of having something truly different. “It is very fun to meet these designers from all around and it’s a great way to show off what great design work is coming out of Milwaukee.” Kristy’s fashion aspirations started when she was five. She was very good at illustrating fashion, but when it came to sewing, that was a different story. With aggressive encouragement from the Areka, Kristy continued learning and designing for fashion shows, gallery night events and photo shoots.

Although FashionFlat and the Fashion Ninja boutique and school are separate, they have a unique shared identity. The designers know that there is more than just a dollar value involved. There is the value of living in, working in and supporting a community and that is what inspires them to build a place, online and in Bay View, where fashion can truly live.

Support your local designers at:
www.FashionFlat.com
www.FashionNinja.com

By Brian Dell

America’s relationship with Frank Miller has been a long and storied one. Coming up in Marvel Comics as both a writer and illustrator, he turned the comics world on its head and began to be hailed as a visionary when he reinvented Batman as a vengeful old maniac in The Dark Knight Returns (1986) and again as a troubled young man in Batman: Year One (1987, which inspired the movie Batman Begins 18 years later.) He went on to write the screenplays for Robocop 2 and 3, which suffered so heavily under studio interference that he claimed he would never let Hollywood film his comics. Then in 1991 he began solo work on his masterpiece, Sin City.

Enter Robert Rodriguez, DIY moviemaking icon from Austin, TX. After shooting a short segment from Sin City just to see what he could do, he sold it on Frank and they co-directed the movie based on three of the graphic novels. A huge success with the fans and shot almost entirely on green screen, Sin City redefined the comic book movie in the same way that Miller’s work redefined the graphic novel, and brought the name Frank Miller to mainstream America.

Published in 1998, Miller’s 300 has now been adapted for movie audiences by Green Bay’s own Zack Snyder, who remade Dawn of the Dead a few years back. 300 tells the true story of the battle of Thermopylae, where King Leonidas of Sparta led 300 of his men to try and stop the advance of Xerxes and the absolutely immense Persian army (estimates of this force have ranged from hundreds of thousands to the millions.)

Well, to say 300 tells the “true” story is perhaps misleading. It does get a lot of the historical facts right, but also embellishes and stylizes constantly. This is the nature of Frank Miller’s work; he is a self-described romanticist, and he uses the fantastic to make his characters more iconic. Snyder takes it one step further in the movie by embellishing on Miller’s work with more freaks, more subplots and dialogue… generally just more of everything. This was obviously done to extend the running time for adaptation of the relatively short graphic novel, (and may be met with some mixed criticism,) but when you’re having as much fun as Snyder was obviously having here, why not stretch it out as long as you can?

One thing that can be said in praise of Snyder (and of Rodriguez) is that he is very literal in his visual interpretation… the actors on screen are so stylized that they have the same exaggerated features and intensity of the characters on the comics page. Gerard Butler nails the unrelenting pride of Leonidas, Rodrigo Santoro steals scenes as the imposing Xerxes, and Lena Headey is more than sufficient as the Queen of Sparta (though I did find her sub-plot to wear a bit thin.)

Most viewers, however, will be in the theater seats for violence, and 300 does not disappoint in this regard. In fact, it has so much violence that it rolls over into the end credits. Almost non-stop. You want to see elephants killed? You got it. A fat guy with swords for arms? No problem. A kid fights a wolf to the death, people fall to their doom, limbs get hacked off constantly… you get the idea. Snyder uses a lot of slo-mo and snap zooms to emphasize key points in the bloodshed… it’s all happening so fast and regularly that without these techniques, you wouldn’t know which kill you should be watching.

I think I have talked myself into a corner this time though. I’ve hyped this movie so often that I will probably get talked into seeing it at least two more times in the theater alone. But I think I will manage to enjoy it, in all its gratuitousness. To all my friends, let me try a little reverse psychology to avoid this situation next time around: I predict Tarantino & Rodriguez will do a lousy job with Grindhouse. So let’s not see that. Oh, who am I kidding… I already want to see it four or five times, minimum.

By Brian Dell

I won free movie passes at work this morning, so it seemed destined that I would have to go see David Fincher’s new film, Zodiac, which opened today. It is his first project based on actual events, and also his first project following the directorial misfires of Panic Room and Only (a music video he did for Nine Inch Nails.) It is, however, worth noting that among his mediocre work are the underrated Alien 3 and The Game, and more importantly, he is the highly acclaimed director of Se7en and Fight Club. With all this in mind, I set out to see if Fincher could redeem himself with a topic he handles so well: the criminally deranged.

Clocking in at 2:40, one of the best accolades I can give the film is that it never got boring. The movie mainly follows the obsession of newspaper cartoonist Robert Graysmith (Jake Gyllenhaal) who relies on the library, his Eagle Scout training, and confidential police information to sift through the murder mystery which begins in 1969 and remains unresolved to this day. Robert Downey Jr. continues to impress (hot off of a stellar performance in A Scanner Darkly) as a co-worker/co-obsessive, creating a great odd couple with Gyllenhaal. Kenosha-born Mark Ruffalo plays lead investigator David Toschi with a real zest for the role, and the always exceptional Chloe Sevigny rounds out the primary cast as Graysmith’s largely ignored wife.

Despite the impressive credentials of the cast, the real star of any David Fincher movie is usually the cinematography. Zodiac is no exception; one scene features the killer standing in a sunny field, yet he is entirely shadowed. Another shows a landmark building being constructed through time lapse footage (if it was CG, I couldn’t tell.) With all the faded color onscreen and sounds of the seventies on the soundtrack, Fincher goes to work immediately with putting the viewer in the setting.

Ultimately, if you are a fan of Fincher, a fan of Downey Jr. or Gyllenhaal, or a fan of history/crime films, this is a must-see. Just like the idiot who was sitting behind me in the theater, you won’t be able to stop guessing at the plot twists and turns… just do everybody a favor and don’t do it aloud. “Ooh. That guy’s the Zodiac.” “Wait. Who’s this guy?”
Bah. At least I had free passes.

By Andy Zupke

Photography by: Jessica Turnbull

Upon walking into the BBC Upper Level on February 17^th, my wife and I were immediately greeted and hugged by Jayme Dawicki, who thanked us for coming, which showed us a gratitude and appreciation that is sadly uncommon among musicians.

The night started out with a folk-rock group from Madison called The Sharp and Harkins Band. It’s hard to say anything about this band, as they seemed to be “just there”. None of the band members really seemed to be enjoying performing their music, especially the bass player who kept playing octaves as if he’d recently discovered them. The band didn’t get into the music until they started playing covers. A Johnny Cash tune got a lethargic audience somewhat worked-up enough to be ready for the next band.

Jayme Dawicki Band went on next. Plagued by technical problems, the show threatened to go down-hill quickly. Luckily, Jayme Dawicki and her accompanists are true performers, and the show went on with the fun and friendly atmosphere that they’re known for. Jayme’s compositions are varied and interesting, each song changing feel and mood. Her lyrics are sometimes fun and playful, sometimes wistful. She shows influences from the great female storytellers like Joni Mitchell and Joan Baez, especially in songs like, “Jokin’ Joe, Miss Kitty, and Me” and “72 and ½ Toyota Truck”.

Her accompanists- Jordan Roepke, Dylan Brown, and Jeff Brueggeman- all shined through the set. Jordan, a mere 20 years old, is one of the most impressive guitar players in this city, and any band would be lucky to have him. The Jayme Dawicki Band creates a welcoming environment that is sure to keep the listeners coming.

The final band was Neverstatic, a reinvigorated band with a new line-up. They’re an acoustic-rock band that features two cello players giving the band a deep and dark ambience, although the sound guy didn’t really find a niche for them in the mix until the third song.

Jordan again shows his talents, this time on electric bass, with his fellow Downrazor bandmate Heath playing 12-string acoustic guitar. Their new singer Amanda has excellent stage presence, playful and bordering on flirty, with a voice to match. She blends with the band well, despite little slips into a style that may be too soulful (think Christina Aguilera). Neverstatic was highly entertaining and could definitely be placed in the “up and coming” category.

On our way out, Jayme Dawicki once again gave us a smile and thanked us for coming. It’s always nice to see musicians who understand the value of their fans, and how crucial it is for them to go home feeling like they’re part of something. This is the incredible value of local music. By supporting it, you can really feel like you’re supporting something unique that most people don’t know about, but you’ll feel good if a few more do because of you.

For more information on the Bands, Venue or Big Andy’s Milwaukee Music Support:

The Sharp and Harkins Band - http://www.myspace.com/harksharp
Jayme Dawicki Band - http://www.myspace.com/jaymedawicki
Neverstatic - http://www.myspace.com/neverstaticband
Upper Level - http://myspace.com/upperlevel
Big Andy - http://www.myspace.com/bigandybassplayer

by Jack Roman

In the weeks since the last Empress Envy Night and the end of the electronic Kamasutra there has been a tight-lipped group working on delivering the second coming to North Avenue. With the close of Mantra, an electronic music Mecca, this diverse group of people have fully revamped the location and brought a slick new concept.

With construction under a fair bit of secrecy, the rumors about what’s next for the underground spot have bounded from a “Water Street ” sports bar concept, to strip club, to talk about some new “clubby” place coming to the underground spot. To dispel some rumors and get a sneak peak, The Milwaukee Scene was invited for unprecedented access to a club still under construction.

From the designers computer generated renderings the first impression is that the space is huge, sleek and stylized. Designer and project manager Scott Genke, who’s work can be experienced at Yaffa Lounge, Redroom, and Mantra has really pushed the envelope on what you can expect in a club environment. “It’s nice to start work in a gutted space,” says Scott as he shows us the renderings of a space with three bars, two DJ booths, two entrances and two distinct layouts.

What you can expect from the staff and management is superior service. “This is a completely VIP club,” says D. Bowie entrepreneur and partner in the new hot spot. “We have really expanded the ideas about what a club experience should be.” Partners in the venture include the afore mentioned D. Bowie, Drew Deuster and JJ Kovacovich all 3 established night life regulars. Drew brings club knowledge and experience that stretches from his young day’s bartending in Florida to the present as VIP and Event Manager at CO2 Ultralounge. JJ Kovacovich has been a staple in the industry and is best known for his work at Hi Hat as well as soft-core inspired Sunday nights at Redlight.

When guests enter through the North Avenue doorway they will be greeted by a hotel concierge inspired desk area. Then as they move into the club, the left side will be known as DeepBar and will offer a warm feel to its customers. Complete with plasma screens, a billiards table and its own DJ booth, DeepBar is designed to deliver atmospheric effects as well as multi media providing the place with versatility and comfort. As Bowie describes how we were standing at the dividing line of two different spaces, he says, “So often you have a place that is a club, or a place that is a bar. This place will be both and will pull it off with exceptional confidence.” The vibe on this side will be all about being a bar seven days a week.

For the weekend scene, guests will enter on North Avenue and walk through a glass door on the right and into a space called Decibel that is comfortable, yet high energy. With a booming state-of-the-art sound system, a sophisticated lighting and visual display system, a DJ booth, two bars and a dedicated VIP lounge Decibel is where a lot of action will be. VIP’s get a raised and spacious area nestled behind the DJ booth; a great location to watch the night life from. There is also a bar, the third in the club, dedicated to VIP patrons. The second entrance on Kenilworth will continue to be VIP access and leads directly into Decibel’s VIP lounge.

Other interesting features of the club will be a few new bathrooms that will service the DeepBar area as well as the elegant geometry of the bars, DJ booths and dance floor. The original capacity of the space was in the vicinity of 320 but with the restructuring of the space and addition of more bathrooms the capacity is expected to be greater than that of Mantra. LCDs, projectors, vivid colors and fabrics selection and media art will be a big part of the environment. According to the team, guests can expect to experience a fully multimedia capable lounge and club where anything is possible.

So what about Mantra Lounge? Who gets the neon sign outside? The group is not sure yet. Perhaps a party will decide its fate. What about the artifacts and details that delivered much of Mantra’s charm? Some those mementos will be used to decorate the back office. Decibel won’t remind you of anything else in the city we’re assured. Everyone involved has taken great care to provide a unique identity to the new project. Will any of the familiar employees be returning to staff Decibel? Drew recognizes that part of Mantras success was due to an excellent staff and will be the first to be considered for opportunities when the doors open.

Oh ya – when will the doors open? In April, Deuster says will a smile.

The team says they want to lead the next generation of nightlife in Milwaukee and we agree they can from the glimpse we’ve seen of Decibel. Best Wishes.

Stay up to date and find out more at The Milwaukee Scene and at:

http://www.decibelmke.com
http://myspace.com/decibelmke