Bohemian Caverns, a Bargain of the Night

U and 13th streets -- 10:30 p.m.: I get off at the U Street Metro with some out-of-towners. "We're still in the ghetto," one of them informs someone on a cell phone. "Maybe 20 years ago, but not anymore," I tell them. It's surprisingly subdued on the streets, save the countless Obama merchandise vendors and the now-standard line down the alley at Ben's Chili Bowl. Those same out-of-towners debate heading to Bohemian Caverns.

"This is Bohemian Tavern, right?" Close enough. "Tonight won't be the usual experience," I tell them. Not that that's a bad thing. The jazz spot has been taken over by local bloggers Brightest Young Things for the evening. Fritz checked in with a report about 10 hours ago and things have decidedly picked up steam since then. If you didn't pre-purchase a ticket, it's waiting in the cold for you. Inside, it's a multi-level extravaganza.

I get there to catch almost the entire set by the Laughing Man in the downstairs performance area. It's the first time I've heard the locals and they immediately take up a spot on my Local Bands to Watch list, with an appealingly laidback-yet-dynamic indie rock sound.

The atmosphere is the opposite of the black tie balls, and admission is just $25. The vodka tonics could be a little stronger, but isn't that always the case? Comedian Tig Nitaro is scheduled to tell some jokes in a bit and Next Big Thing Wale's featured set will follow shortly. I'm legitimately bummed to have to hop on Metro to hit Ibiza for the sure-to-be-haughtier RIAA ball.

-- David Malitz