Off the Beaten Path: 411 New York Avenue, NE

It's retro, unique, different, dangerous, and a bit illicit but a good time nonetheless. If you can find it, check it out. It's well worth the search.

Just for Fun: Royksopp's Epie

For your viewing and listening pleasure:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jl4rwMZWATs

Please View: Robert Frank The Americans

The National Gallery of Art is currently exhibiting the works of Robert Frank. His photography series, "The Americans" is comprised of 83 photographs ranging from 1955 to 1956. Frank's works portray the grim side of life as he captures average Americans going about their day-to-day activities in their natural environments. Frank's subjects include ordinary people eating in a diner, to a woman gazing out a window, and people convened at a gas station.

It has been said that Frank's intent with this series was to illustrate the angst, loneliness, and alienation of the average American life, and he succeeds. His photographs are haunting as his subjects depict ordinary people mired in their monotonous and lonely existences with a quiet desperation and wanting to get out of their circumstances (perhaps resonating with today's Americans and the many uncertainties we face today).

Quite powerful and a must see-- National Gallery of Art, January 18–April 26, 2009.

Things We Like: Policy

In a word, refreshing-- a great addition to the Logan Circle neighborhood. Two-week old Policy Lounge opened its doors for its official grand opening last Saturday to a handful of locals to preview the space.

The entrance is illuminated with a bright yellow lights a la the entrance to the Hudson in NYC. The first floor is very sexy, dimly lit, modern, and minimal. It is mostly tables for eating, with a small bar area, and a few tables for lounging (only libations were consumed that night and so will have to report back on the food items).

The best part of space is undoubtedly the second floor. It is one of the most prolific designs in Washington DC (at least among the more mainstream venues)-- chandeliers hang from the ceilings, graffiti art on the walls, multi-level tables for lounging, and for the most part an open space with a good amount of room for dancing and mingling.

One complaint: the DJ needed some help.

Please visit this new little gem -- 1904 14th Street, NW