Notes: Bar Culture

Our food and drink editor recalls everything he missed during dry January

Have you ever had a Pickleback? Today, it’s a shot of whiskey (commonly Jameson) followed by a pickle brine chaser. The name of the drink is attributed to a Williamsburg, Brooklyn bar circa 2006 where Old Crow bourbon was used, though some credit a Philly iteration as the first documented, while even fewer claim it made its debut in Texas. Truth be told, it isn’t …

Flume feat. Vince Staples + Kučka: Smoke And Retribution

Seems like the appetite for Flume’s new music can’t be satiated. “Never Be Like You,” the first single off of the 24-year-old Australian producer’s upcoming sophomore album Skin has already racked up Soundcloud plays into the millions. This week, he released another track from the album, a collaboration with rapper Vince Staples and electronic pop musician Kučka (aka Laura Jane Lowther). “Smoke And Retribution” teases …

The Sound Design of Swiss Army Man

At Sundance, directing duo Daniels discuss how their lush soundscapes keep things weird but authentic

One week ago, just an hour after we disembarked a plane, we sat in Park City, Utah’s Eccles Theater for the world premiere of “Swiss Army Man” at this year’s Sundance Film Festival. No viewer knew exactly what to expect, and even now it’s not easy to explain. Ultimately, however, it’s a highbrow dark comedy, albeit occasionally steered by potty humor—all of which ultimately supports …