I've been wondering, in this topsy-turvy Vegas club scene, what are the things which set me off? One: bad music. There's nothing like a poor DJ set to kill the mood. Also, poor service and thuggish security. And I absolutely hate getting to a club and finding a sword fight, when the guys seriously outnumber the ladies. But these all pale in comparison with the No. 1 party killer: boredom. There's nothing worse than finding out that a party which you've been looking forward is boring. Such was the case with the launch for Ra's new Wednesday, Flaunt.
For many moons, Ra's award-winning Pleasuredome Wednesday was a juggernaut: high-energy nights featuring the biggest international DJs. But in the past year, the crowds had diminished. I can't say why, but I theorize that the declining public interest in the DJ as rock star, and the dwindling popularity of the rave sound, might have had something to do with it.
Flaunt's focus was to be funkier; the music, by resident Duane King, DJ Create and guests, was going to be edgier; there'd be fashion shows and a sexier look in the club. Sounded great!
My invite to the new night's Vegas Magazine-sponsored opening party was made from Von Dutch denim, that evening's clothing line. I was impressed. The fine print read party from 8 to 10 p.m., which worried me until I realized the Vegas bash was just meant to be a warm-up.
So, what about the fashion? It's a great idea. Fashion shows are quite happening, plus periodic fashion shows throughout the night can only add to a party's cool factor. Ra was decked out with a runway and looked great, even though the dance floor had essentially ceased to exist. But my comic-book reading, video-game playing, nerdy, heterosexual self wanted more than Von Dutch T-shirts and jeans. Like everything, fashion shows are about sex. Especially when they're being held in a club. Hint to Ra: Next time, get hotter models and hotter clothes.
Boring was how the whole evening felt. The only high spot came from DJ Create's set. He had some great rock and hip-hop remixes, and some clever blends of the two styles. Otherwise, I was so bored that I refused to stay longer than an hour and a half, despite that the party was going all night and Skribble was coming on late. Bad enough that the party started so early, but now you expect me to wait around for three hours for the DJ I came to hear? Yeah, right. A boring party and free booze is a recipe for sleepiness.
I like Ra, and I hate to tear one of their events a new one, but boredom is inexcusable. Fun is the order of business, remember? Flaunt is a great idea which can totally work, especially if organizers bring in the occasional band to play alongside the runway as the models strut their stuff. I believe this night can work so much that I'm going back as soon as possible for a follow up examination. Let this column simply serve as an example on how not to debut your new banner night.
Antonio Llapur walks softly and carries a big club. E-mail him at [email protected].