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1984 at the Cat's Grill Thursday evenings 10-2am 1190 Folsom St. Tel: (415) 431.3332 |
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1984 was a heavy year. Orwell had already chosen it as the locus for his particularly grim sci-fi prediction, lending it a gloomy weight even before its arrival. Ron and Maggie stood as head honcho in their respective countries, bringing out the worst in people both sides of the Atlantic. We were heading for Mutual Destruction, Assured of it. Things, to be frank, were not looking good. Still, I got over it, and now I can't help but think it's a particularly well chosen name for the weekly retro eighties night at the Cats Grill, South of Market. Calling it 1984 helps avert eyes from the big-hair stigma such events typically bear. Sure, the cheese is still in full effect, it's half the fun after all and what draws many people to such events, but in this case velveeta is not the prime ingredient of the evening. First off, the Cat's Grill is a fine space to have a party. Partitioned into two distinct areas, a separate sound system serving each, the dimly lit brick interior is definitely plusher than most mini-clubs. Velvet drapes descend from the high ceiling, faux classical sculpture hang in the corners, wrought mirrors look into the walls. Two well staffed bars make sure you're never thirsty long. It's loud, and the sound is crisp. The crowd the night I attended were an eclectic bunch. From the shuffling goth to the greased rock-a-billy. You don't need to dress up for the occasion, but you can, and many did -- in fact, you could spend a lot of time oggling the better examples of this aptly attired clientele, the devious bad taste of acid wash, the floor trailing rock star white fur...You could, but before long you're bound to hear something you just have to dance to. All the usual suspects get a rotation. Prince, Boy George, New Order -- other slipped in the back door, Grandmaster Flash, Iggy Pop. It's easy to stick to the favorites on a night like this, the crowd is hungry and eager for nostalgia, but mercifully the DJ's don't resort to night of cheap crowd pleasers. The effect is twofold; you get to here some of the more interesting examples of eighties dance music, then when 'Little Red Corvette' finally does spin on, the crowd go absolutely ballistic. Great night, and if you needed another reason to check it out, its also free entry. Indulge yourself sometime, it was the 'me' decade after all. Gary Burns |
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