Ahead of the Pack!

May 12, 1998

Maybe it's just me. I have to admit, I don't get out much, and being under 21 there's rather slim pickings around Orlando. But in my opinion the new downtown swing club, Ratpack's, has a lot of class. Having never before been to the former Jani Lane's Sunset Strip, I was pleasantly surprised the moment I walked in the door. From the atmosphere to the people to the live band, the entire evening can be summed up in just two words - POSITIVE ENERGY.

Sad but true, prior to Friday night, I'd never been to a club where they actually served your drinks in real glasses rather than Dixie cups and where I had to think again before ashing my cigarette on the floor. Tragic, I know, but I was impressed. Another thing I noticed was the diversity of the guests. Swing certainly seems to be a fad for all ages, and it was nice to see that people from different generations can agree on great music and great fun. The entire staff (with maybe the exception of the bathroom attendant) as well as half the crowd set the mood with their sharp swinging garb - Guys sporting pin-striped suits with suspenders and slicked back hair; Ladies looking equally as festive in shin-length dresses with matching scarves. Definitely a nice change from the baggy Jncos and 'Brat' belly shirts I'm used to seeing around the O-town club scene. In fact, if I'm not mistaken, I'd say the once "raver" crowd may slowly be transforming into swing kids themselves. Crazy, crazy stuff...

The overall success of Ratpacks' opening night, however, can be generously attributed to the musical talent of Michael Andrews's Swingerhead, the live band playing on Friday. I must give credit where credit is due, and these guys (and girl) were fantastic. They packed the dance floor with so much energy that the place was on fire, and even those not dancing could feel the heat (very, very sweaty event). I knew they were good when someone as uncoordinated as myself got up the nerve to try swinging, and I'd have to say it was the most fun I' ve had in ages. Swingerhead even convinced me to purchase their CD - very steep in price, but it was well worth it.

All in all, Ratpack's has lot of style and makes a real refreshing change from the norm. This is one themed club I will surely visit again and again. I'm now convinced - It don't mean a thing if it ain't got that swing! I do have one small suggestion though, and I'm sure everyone there on opening night would agree-TURN DOWN THE AIR!!!!

Natalie Goluba
SWF in search of fun and romance. Hobbies include rollerblading, playing in the sun and creating on my computer. True inspirations are my pups, Maia, Mojo and Jason.