So it's Tuesday night and you're bored. You wanna do the Old City thing but you haven't the strength to deal with vapid, trendy posers. Plus all your poser clothes are being sequestered at that gangsta dry cleaners on 36th and Market. Luckily for you, there is a stylish alternative and it doesn't include anything as radical as studying. SoMa's Tuesday night groove session, Soul Traveling, splices saucy pop hits with classic hip-hop gems in a modest yet sensual atmosphere.
Named for its historic location south of Market Street, SoMa's cutting edge exterior is reminiscent of other nearby hotspots such as Bleu Martini and World Fusion. Inside the lounge, plush benches line the intimate dance floor with a brightly lit bar in the back. Small creaky tables, simple black chairs and wooden floors round out the interior. The somewhat haggard furniture creates the laidback feeling of having drinks at a friend's house. Despite the homey setting, the diverse crowd of 20-something students and hip-hop breakers create a singular and interesting hybrid of club-goers.
The music takes a unique approach to the usual top 40 selection by fusing elements of old school beats and rhymes with the newest pop tracks. Everything from Kelis to The Pharcyde, to Sean Paul to Brand Nubian, hits the wheels of steel, often with the soulful beat of a '90s rap blended under the popular lyrics of a current chart-topper. SoMa offers the standard drink selection with potent cosmos and martinis at prices that don't reflect the over-hyped, watered-down cocktails at its neighboring lounges.
SoMa's chill Tuesday night offers the appeal of an unassuming lounge with an innovative range of music and style.
