Every time somebody asks me about Miami I say “Yeah, it’s nice but I wouldn’t live there again.” Miami is flashy and over the top. Don’t get me wrong, I love Miami. I was born and raised there, but I have generally thought good music and indie culture are limited, if not obsolete, in Miami. However, I was quite surprised to stumble upon a few places (and fabulous radio station) that semi-restored my faith in the good taste of some of Miami’s inhabitants. I came to Miami to spend the holidays with friends and family, and here is what I discovered:
1. I always complain that there isn’t a cool indie radio station in DC, my current home. Well, Miami has a great station! I used to listen to it when I lived in Miami, but I had forgotten how great it was. WVUM 90.5 plays awesome music – if you are ever in Miami, I suggest you tune in. You can also just stream on I-Tunes or listen to DJ playlists online. If you’re into indie/alternative, you must check out this station – http://wvum.org/playlists/
Here are a few songs they played on my way home from the airport:
Paco! by Ladytron
Tristesse/Joie by Yelle
Sipping on the Sweet Nectar by Jens Lekman
Tide by Matthew Dear
2. I went out to reunite with Miami friends and I stumbled upon Bardot, an awesome speakeasy/lounge plein de hipsters, cool music, great beer, and fun dancing. At one point the DJ hopped out of his booth and started dancing with my friend. This place was so fun and reminiscent of a London rock bar. http://bardotmiami.com/lounge/home/
3. Strolling along Lincoln Road, I discovered an awesome store originally based in London. The clothes are dark, pseudo-gothic/punk, yet glamorous. Only two stores currently exist in the US; they are in Los Angeles and Miami. You better believe I stocked up on clothes while there. This store is like nothing you see on Lincoln Road. There is so much Lincoln Road hype, but it is astonishing how it is filled with trashy, flashy club-wear stores. All Saints will hopefully inspire other great designers and stores to move in. http://www.us.allsaints.com/
By the way, Happy New Year!!!
