True Words
Among all the New Wave and synth-pop acts with ridiculous outfits and ridiculous hair that created sometimes ridiculous hit songs in the 1980s, Elvis Costello and Blondie offered perhaps the greatest appeal to music nerds, with a higher level of skill and sophistication than many of their peers. It makes sense, then, that both acts have not only stood the test of time but have been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (Costello in 2003, Blondie in 2006) and are now touring together for a bill that unites nostalgia and musical ambition.
British singer-songwriter Costello released his classic debut album, My Aim Is True, in 1977, and his hits throughout the late ’70s and into the ’80s include “Alison,” “Less Than Zero,” “Pump It Up,” “Oliver’s Army,” “Everyday I Write the Book” and “Veronica.” His music incorporated classic rock and folk influences along with the New Wave, pop and punk that defined the sound of the ’80s. New York City band Blondie also debuted in the ’70s, releasing their self-titled first album in 1976. The group, fronted by charismatic singer Debbie Harry, scored hits like “Heart of Glass,” “Rapture,” “Hanging on the Telephone,” “Call Me” and “One Way or Another,” becoming one of the staples of early MTV with their eye-catching music videos.
While Blondie went on hiatus in 1982 before reuniting in 1997, Costello has been consistently releasing music and touring for more than 40 years. The current Blondie lineup features founding members Harry, Clem Burke and Chris Stein, and Costello is touring with his longtime backing band The Imposters. Both artists are supporting recent releases (Costello’s 2018 Look Now, Blondie’s 2017 Pollinator), but their sets shouldn’t skimp on classic hits. After all these years, they’ve proven that they know exactly what they’re doing. –Josh Bell
The Pearl at Palms, 8 p.m. Aug. 1, starting at $59.95 plus tax and fee. 702.944.3200
Adult Playdate
It’s a night of naughty theater with Cirque du Soleil’s Zumanity. Enter into a world of talent and charm as a series of sexy vignettes display impressive athletic and acrobatic skills, mixed with playful eroticism and a dash of alluring music, sass and over-the-top comedy. Get ready to celebrate all things excitingly explicit. –Kiko Miyasato
New York-New York, 7 & 9:30 p.m. Fri.-Tues., 9:30 p.m. show only July 29, starting at $69, 18+. 866.606.7111
Find Your Bliss
The Spa at Palms recently opened its doors as part of the property-wide renovations and offers guests some new and innovative ways to relax your body and mind. Those highlights include chakra balancing, crystal healing, tarot card readings, zodiac astrology and aromatherapy. The Spa is made up of bohemian-style surroundings and Zen décor that helps emanate peace, calm and rejuvenation. –KM
Palms, 8 a.m.-8 p.m. daily. 702.942.6866
Splashing Good Time
Looking for some weekend pool party fun without the crowded hassle of pool clubs? Then head to Caesars Palace’s Garden of the Gods Pool Oasis and set up camp at the Apollo Pool for its MillerCoors-branded pool party, Friday through Sunday, from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Live DJs play the latest hits, and there’s also barbecue eats and a variety of pool games to get folks mingling. –KM
Caesars Palace, 702.731.7266
