Sail Away
It’s classic rock’s version of the chicken vs. egg debate—a debate that’s led to countless bar fights and messy divorces: Who’s more responsible for a band’s success, the gifted musicians in the background who create the signature sound or the individual out front whose pitch-perfect vocals lend meaning to that sound? Dennis DeYoung certainly knows all about that debate, having been a central figure in one of those messy divorces. A founding member of rock powerhouse Styx, the singer/songwriter and his bandmates endured a couple of breakups and makeups before officially parting ways in 1999.
Both have carried on, Styx with a replacement singer, DeYoung with a replacement band. Because each has thrived—quite uncommon when it comes to fractured rock bands—there likely never will be a winner in this particular debate. That said, DeYoung may hold the trump card: As his band proves nightly, they can replicate Styx’s sound, but there’s only one original voice behind anthems such as “Babe,” “The Best of Times,” “Lady,” and “Come Sail Away.” And it’s a voice that’s unmistakable. –Matt Jacob
Golden Nugget, 8 p.m. March 6, starting at $59 plus tax and fee. 800.745.3000 Ticketmaster
An English Treat
Photo by: Jon Estrada
For a little taste of England, head to the Cornish Pasty Co. in Vegas’ burgeoning Arts District. The hip joint features an open kitchen, dark woods, and two separate bars—and some seriously rocking pies.
There’s an enormous variety of the stuffed pasties, from the traditional meat variety, with meat, cheese, onion and rutabaga, to a veggie cottage pie, with Quorn ground beef (a mycoprotein), peas, carrots, mashed potatoes and onions. Both are served with red wine gravy and HP sauce. The Cornish Pasty Co. makes from two to four vegan options a day, so if there’s no cottage pie left, you can feel secure you’ll find something to love.
But you’re not limited to traditional English fare. The pasty list goes on and on: Mexican, Reuben, lamb and mint, spicy asiago chicken, lamb vindaloo, Greek, eggplant Parmesan and a boatload more.
It’s not all pasties, though. Try baked beans, mushy peas and other sides, or get salads and Tandoori wings. And for dessert? What about sticky toffee pudding or a peanut butter and jelly pasty? Wash it all down with a craft beer and you’re ready to roll. –Nina King
10 E. Charleston Blvd., 11 a.m.-midnight Sun.-Wed., 11 a.m.-2 a.m. Thurs.-Sat. 702.862.4538
Another Cold One
Photo by: Greenspun Media Group
Las Vegas’ craft beer scene is impressive, and you can start your journey at Banger Brewing, a friendly, welcoming business launched by beer fanatics. Almost nothing is off limits here, from Beer Shot American strong ale that’s 15% ABV and Morning Joe coffee-flavored kolsch to El Heffe hefeweizen infused with fresh-roasted jalapeños. And tasting flights let you try it all. –Ken Miller
450 Fremont St. Suite 135, noon-midnight Sun.-Thurs., noon-1 a.m. Fri.-Sat. 702.456.2739