Anyone who has frequented the venerable Family Wash on the East Side likely noticed the place lurking across the street, with the fancy lettering on the windows that reads “Niko’s.” I first assumed it was a place that was closed down, but then was surprised to periodically see its interesting decor lit up and throngs of people having fun inside. Some friends and I even tried to walk in one evening to discover that it was a “private party.” We left disappointed.

Weeks later while enjoying conversation with some friends at the Red Door east, I meet the bartender, named Niko, who turns out to be the owner of phantasmal club of the same name. (more…)

The one and only Reeves Gabrels has been appearing every Sunday down at the Family Wash with “Loud Night,” backed by a revolving group of fantastic musicians from East Nashville and beyond. Gabrels is considered one of the most revolutionary guitarists working today, having worked with Bowie, Tin Machine, Public Enemy and many others.

Sets consist of a variety of Gabrel’s original material: mostly straight-up rockers penned by the virtuoso guitarist featuring intelligent arrangements and sharply crafted lyrics. Of course, you can also expect extended improvisations with Gabrel’s experimenting with digital toys, in particular a (Korg?) tone pad that allows him to dramatically bend and modulate his signal using a touchpad. Guitarists and rock fans alike shouldn’t miss this opportunity to see Reeves in such an intimate environment! (more…)