In tough economic times, people – like me, myself, and my pet mastiff, Agamemnon – turn to such glorious American pastimes as drinking – martini, straight up, with a whiff of vermouth, no more – and, more importantly, music. The blues especially have been a touchstone of American culture when we most needed a boost, and its distinct rhythm and hues are wonderful respite for troubled hearts and minds.

That’s why the Renaissance Hollywood Hotel & Spa is very pleased to announce the first of what we hope to become an institution, the Renaissance Blues Club, on Saturday, August 15 and then again on August 29. (RSVP on Facebook here.) Our own Director of Sales & Marketing, Dan Shaughnessy, is a devout blues enthusiast, and he’s put together a bang-up first show with the help of blues promoter Shadow Sky. The first show will run from 8 pm to 1 am, and you can see the show’s flier here.

I certainly mean to be there; I’ll be in the corner with Agamemnon, who still drinks appletinis despite numerous attempts to break him of this horrible habit. I suppose in times as these you nurse the drink that nurses you, so I should not chastise him further. Instead, we’ll turn our ears to the music and listen with our hearts.

This is Bruce, signing off.