A Unique Night On The Town: Rhythm & Rye
Those of us in Macon who love music are at a turning point, a precipice. There’s a number of options out there, but are we really taking full advantage of them? Well, I’m here to give y’all a heads up on something that anyone can get out and enjoy while also checking out something new.
It’s a partnership between friends from all parts of my world: Adam Dennis, Owner of Bourbon Bar, and an old classmate from my Stratford days; Nick Rizkalla, Owner of Roasted Cafe and DSEL Promotions, and a classmate of mine from Mercer; and Shirod Cooley- better and most famously known as THE Dj Shawty Slim, DJ and mentor to many in the scene in Macon and B.o.B.’s tour dj. These three extraordinary men have teamed up to create the Rhythm & Rye event at Bourbon Bar this upcoming Saturday 23rd. As stated on the Facebook page, this event is:
An infusion of two American institutions.
As distinctive and bold as your favorite whiskey, house music was born and bred in the sultry scene of American dance floors in the early 1980s. Seeking a soulful respite from the glitz and glam of disco culture, a few enlightened rogues laid the groundwork for what we now know as ‘house’ in the South Side of Chicago. Hypnotic, driving bass lines paired with glowing synths and haunting vocals provided the soundtrack for the city’s most intimate and exclusive gatherings.
We seek to provide you with a haven from the daily grind, fueled by the smoothest spirits and grooves Macon has to offer. Whether you take it neat or on the rocks, we invite you to slip into the deep end with us.
For our very first installment, come celebrate
DJ Shawty Slim’s release of his new EP named “One a Days” with your favorite single malt or old fashioned.
But what exactly does this mean? Well, I had some questions for my friends.
Molly: How did the idea of this event start?
We’ve always been involved with the dance music scene in Macon. However, as we’ve gotten older and a little more mellow, we’ve realized that other than in our own homes, there really isn’t anywhere in town to experience the smoother side of dance music. Most cities have at least one venue dedicated to the sounds and culture of these subdued genres. There’s been a lot of talk in recent years about providing the city with such a space, a ‘lounge’ vibe that still retains a fashion forward image, but no one’s really followed through with it. So, here we are!
Molly: What’s your goal for this event?
Macon is full of bright, vibrant characters. It’s what makes our city so special. Why not provide them all with an upscale event at which to unwind from the work week, or even network with new acquaintances? That’s the vibe we are going for here. We want this event to be accessible and beneficial for everyone, which means making the atmosphere as inclusive as possible. Smooth sounds at a comfortable volume at one of Macon’s most fashionable establishments. Oh, and no cover, but dress to impress!
Molly: Is there a “house” music scene in Macon?
If we are talking ‘house’ in the traditional sense, it used to be huge in Macon. You’ve got folks like Structure and T-Mouse who put together some of the biggest events in Middle Georgia nightlife history, right here in Macon! Of course these were high energy, absolute bangers of parties. You’ve gotta respect that, but that’s quite different from what we are aiming for here. More of a cocktail hour, less of a rager haha! This is a one of a kind thing, no one else in town is pushing this vibe.
Molly: Let’s say I know I love Bourbon Bar and I want to hang out. but I’m not sure about this house music stuff- why should I come check this out?
House, especially deep house, is probably the most approachable genre of dance music. We also plan on using the music more of a tone setter for the evening rather than the focal point. We want to encourage folks to socialize and make new connections and memories rather than shout over some guy fist pumping on stage. If you’re tired of the same Top 40 music and club crowds, this is the spot for you.
Molly: Let’s say I know I love house music, why would I want to check it out at Bourbon Bar?
Bourbon Bar has really been pushing the envelope when it comes to providing top notch spirits and cocktails to Macon’s most fashionable folk. We feel the atmosphere and service they provide is the best match in town for the aesthetic we are looking to achieve. We want the night to feel casual, but polished. Vogue, but with just enough edge to be daring. We think we’ve got the beginnings of something really cool brewing and we want you to be a part of it.
Molly: Is this going to be a regular event?
We would love this to be an once a month event but of course we need the support of the town. We really do believe this will become the place to see and be seen in Macon.
What exactly is house music? What makes it different?
Deep house is subgenre of house music that originated in the 1980’s fusing elements of Chicago house with 1980’s jazz-funk and a touch of soul. In layman term Deep house is ambient electronic music that creates a chill and relaxed vibe. Deep house music rarely reaches a climax, but lingers on as a comfortable, relaxing sound.
Well, friends, I know I’ll be there to check it out. I spoke with them some more and they wanted to add that the music is really to add to the atmosphere- it’s not a “club” type of event but something to add a really cool upscale vibe. The only question now is, will I see you there?
Love to all y’all,
Molly
