Happy Birthday, Rhythm

Got invited out tonight by Justin andDave, who’re doing this dual-DJ thing ata place called Rhythm. I also got invitedout by Kristen and Brook, who were also planning on attending.

My initial reaction (earlier in the week) was to decline, and stay in. I’ve been in hermit modefor a while now, and the idea of going out wasn’t all that appealing. But I hadn’t seen Kristen andBrook in a while, and Justin and Davealways play good stuff.

To top things off, Justin’s neighbor Doug (whoI met last January) is a part-owner of this place. I rememberseeing a mention of Rhythm onWild Chicago, a long time ago…and it seemed like quite the cool place.

Rhythm, entrance.

It was fairly dark inside when we showed up. I snapped this sans flash, and kind of like thepicture that came out.

When we showed up, the drum circle was already underway. From what I could gather, anyone could graba drum and sit down in one of three sections (there’s a third section to the right of this picture). Ibelieve there’s an “intro” period that lasts maybe an hour. We walked in on the performance part of theevening (which also lasts about an hour).

After throwing down a drink and watching for a while, I decided to sneak around behind the “stage” andtried to get a shot of the crowd.

I have to admit, I found the whole drum circle thing rather fun. Had we showed up a bit earlier, I’m fairlycertain I would have grabbed a drum and jumped in.

I think that my boss, Rey, mentioned coming to this place once. Given his skillswith the Conga Drums, I don’t doubt he could show these folks a thing or two.

Shot of the main “floor” area. I believe the guy who was leading everyone this evening was namedJohn (seated).

Another shot of the crowd.

Justin and Dave,about to start up their set.

Stepped outside on a few occasions, to hang out with Brook and Will as they smoked. Spotted thisrather lovely looking set of doors and had to take a picture.

Note to self: come back here during the daytime, and get this shot for real.

Drum shelf, near the entrance.

Brook and Kristen. Dig the hats.

Empty stage.

Fun time tonight. I got to chat with Kristen and Brook a great deal, and it just felt good. I’ve hungout with them several times, but tonight was the first time the three of us talked at length. Lots ofconversation, lots of laughing. I had a very fun time.

I’m glad I shook off the hermit thing, and decided to venture out.

Looking around at this place (the were celebrating their third anniversary here), I’m quiteimpresssed. I think this place is a great idea. Kudos to Doug formaking this place happen. He’s a smart businessman, that one.