On The Scene: Modernista 02-11-2012

Double-header part two. Modernista has been making quite the splash here in Beijing in the past year – it’s easy to see why – a part of the hip (or hipster) bar movement happening along Gulou’s fine hutongs, the retro-French style joint complete with checkered floor tiles, old-timey posters, and a assortment of classy drinks, including absinthe, it’s a fine establishment which has found a following of well-to-do Beijingers, most of who probably have outgrown Wudaoku, work in Guomao, and look well to do . That’s not a jab, but merely an observation. Their anniversary was a couple weeks back so it was only appreciate to check the place out – more importantly I wanted to check out the music. Music Soulz was on duty tonight, and despite the hordes of noisy patrons who paid little to no attention to the music, I whipped my camera out and did my best to capture the sounds of the Baochao Hutong café.

My first thoughts were that the two gentlemen on keyboard and acoustic guitar are probably knee deep in female genitalia – yes that’s were my thoughts went first. Sue me. When the sultry Frenchie joined them on stage, well you can imagine where my thoughts went there.

But seriously, playing a mix of original and covers Music Soulz were a good time – the three members are extremely talented musicians. There’s a definite chemistry up there that plays out throughout their songs, and hell there’s something just warm and fuzzy about their music.

Perhaps a bit cheesy, but compared to some of ear-grating music that Mao Livehouse and Converse were proudly promoting, these three were pros. And though my head keeps telling me that Modernista will never accept me for who I am(right back at ya), it’s a lovely place that everyone should check out time to time – as long as it’s not too packed. Which I’m not sure is ever.