Friday, I attended a rockabilly show at Tio Leo’s, a venue long-known for having a thriving scene. It was, um, interesting. I never really fully understood what rockabilly style meant. I mean, I like the fashion and motorcycles; however, I was not really sure what rockabillies actually stood for as a subculture. I found out during the show and thanks to two straight friends who are larger-than-life players in the rockabilly scene.
I have to say, I was a bit hesitant to attend the show for two major reasons: First, I grew up in the punk rock scene and second, I wasn’t really keen on walking into a room with people who are voluntarily stuck in a 1950s value system and/or mindset. Add to that, the origins of rockabilly lie primarily in the South, and I think it’s safe to say the original rockabilly ethos might not have been the most pro-LGBT philosophy out there.
However, I did check out what I thought were a few cute butch girls at Tio Leo’s. Then I realized where I was, and that I was actually checking out a clean-shaven 21-year-old guy. Oops; my bad.
I felt like I had stepped into a time machine, and gone back to a land where bad motifs dominated interior design and men’s suits were shaded in varieties of muddy earth tones, and ties were just too huge. The rockabilly vibe at Tio Leo’s was very odd, and I feel confident in saying it does not sit well with being queer. It was like mixing cheese and coffee, instead of cheese and wine. I cannot say I fully understood the music either. I think I’ll stick to what I know – Riot Grrl and punk shows.
Tio Leo’s
Juicy, juicy
For girls, Juicy at Bourbon Street Sundays is definitely a thumbs-up. It is free; it draws in more than one crowd; and it isn’t just the same girls holding down the same bar stool night after night. They have also hired on what looks like a new crew of girls. I have to say, I do miss running into Franki and Monica Knux. They will have a hard time trying to find a female bartender who can fill Franki’s shoes. San Diego misses you both. Another bonus to Bourbon Street is El Vee. She is an amazing DJ and I was glad to see she will be keeping everyone shaking their asses during Pride, Sunday, July 22 in the HiNRG dance area. So, go check her out and support local LGBT artists and musicians.
Juicy at Bourbon Street
Femme Fatale
Also in girl news, I went to Numbers for Femme Fatale Saturday. Sorry guys, but that was a bust! Big thumbs-down. It was certainly not the bartenders’ fault as they were all great. It was simply too high of a cover charge for not anywhere close to enough people; the same problem with security that they have had for too long – door guys that are brutish, cold and generally pushy and unfriendly. The music was good, though, and the venue is great; it just is not what it was before – plus the rude door guys.
Numbers get new door people! This has been an issue for years!
Femme Fatale at Numbers
Cheers!
Cheers has always been a great place to go to get the night started or for a Sunday afternoon to hang out, play pool and control the jukebox. It is down-to-earth and has the best set of regulars of any LGBT bar. It is a local crowd and like the old TV show, everyone knows your name. It is a very interesting crossover of gay, straight, young, lesbian and old all drinking together and chatting it up. Lucas, the bar manager, is one of the nicest guys in the business and ensures that guests feel at home. He is always willing to share a friendly smile and a hilarious story.
Finally, their house specials, beer size and prices are unmatched.
Cheers!
Until next time, play hard, drink safe and shake your ass! This is your Ambassador of the Night, signing off for now.
