Above Lavo’s bar, a blue lady stares down at with two pairs of eyes. Wings flutter around her and a trombone encircles her. Her name is Billie Holiday – as per Belgian artist Caratoes’ interpretation. It’s a fresh take on Lady Day and a direct representation of what Lavo has done: recreate itself.
In October, Lavo reopened in its original location in Kerry Plaza under the new direction of the Riverflow Investment Group (the guys behind Pepper and Shark). Smartly dressed waiters, creative cocktails and a speakeasy interior of well-placed low lighting, dark curtains and tucked away corners give the bar a moderately exclusive and definitely swanky vibe.
“For some clubs the band is the main part. For other clubs, it’s the DJ. Here it’s half-half,” Ray M, one of the creators of Lavo tells us, elaborating on their fusion concept. He cites a strong music team as being central to this idea, and he should. Cayetano, a famed Greek producer, and Ekki, one of the masterminds behind Sunset Funk, are part of the staff, creating a versatile blend of funk, soul and jazz music; bringing years of experience in the industry with them.
Right now, the weekly lineup includes both foreign and Chinese musicians, with two DJs a night as well as three house bands throughout the week. Ray M plans on bringing in several international acts a month.
The night we go, the Kutimangoes, a Danish Afro-beat band, fill Lavo with West African melodies and jazzy originals. While we boogie down, we drink the red carpet (RMB88), an awakening blend of rum, lime, passion fruit, pepper bitters and Tabasco sauce. Not for the weak, the drink tastes tart and stings a bit going down, but that’s why it’s so great.
We also sample the raspberry julep (RMB88), a mix of bourbon, cranberry juice, raspberry, lime and sugar, but overall find it a bit too sweet. Those wanting something classic should order the kir (RMB88): simply wine with a little creme de cassis which, though a bit flat, maintains a pleasant blackcurrant taste.
With its hip art, experienced music team and fruit cocktails, the future looks fresh and definitely funky.
Price: Approx RMB176 for two drinks
Who’s going: Cool kids, music appreciators, spicy cocktail lovers
Good for: Fusion music, live music, impressing out of town friends
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