Iridium Jazz Club: Ever since Iridium moved from the LES to Times Square with its conspicuous neon “Jazz” sign, it’s left New Yorkers feeling like they’ve caught a glimpse of the Emperor’s new clothes. Music to match the bland mushroom risotto panders to a receptive crowd of people who were likely alive when Les Paul (who plays here on Monday nights) first picked up an electric guitar. Apart from the requisite long-haired guitar enthusiast, most come not to pay tribute to the legend, but rather as a stop on their list of “must-see” attractions. Though Iridium’s wine list hits a high note with 200 bottles, the high prices are way off-key, further adding to a fabricated Big Apple that hardly resembles the real New York—which is probably why the tourists love it. |
