MIKE JONES

Mike Jones ran Schizophonic Records and NAIL Distribution before joining A to Z Media which provides “bespoke” packaging for bands like Sigur Ros, Best Coast, and OFF!

What was the food highlight of your year?

Discovering St. Jack, a new French Bistro that opened in Portland this year and having a feast there with a big group of friends including Tim Bierman from the 10Club and Nicole Cifani of MoheakRadio in LA where we all shared many dishes and wines and desserts and talked about music and food for hours.

What was the music highlight of your year?

Being asked to be an extra in Bob Mould’s video, The Descent. Having the opportunity to meet one of my musical heroes and taking part in his career for a micro-moment this summer was really special for me.

Was there a moment when food and music came together in a memorable way?

Immediately following the video shoot. I had dragged my 14 year old son, Max, along with me. He plays trumpet in the marching band at his high school and is a bit of a foodie (totally without pretense, though). I told him that after we were done I would take him to have the best hamburger of his life at Little Bird here in PDX. We wrapped, and after giving Mr. Mould a lift back to his hotel, Max and I sat down for a satisfying 11pm meal at the aforementioned Little Bird and I would have to say that the burger, ordered medium rare, blew his young, musical mind. A great evening.

EVA FRYE

Eva Frye writes about food for 7x7 Magazine. Photo: Ben Rhau

What was the food highlight of your year?

The food highlight had to have been the tasting menu and pairings at Benu. Chef Cory Lee has such intention with his food it is incredible. That tiny piece of chervil on top? Not just for garnish, but an integral part of the flavor composition. Everything served at perfect (and varying) temperatures, everything a play on texture and consistency. And the pairings? Well I never would have thought to pair a Belgian sour with a lemongrassy Asian lobster soup dumpling, but the combination blew my mind and taste buds. Not only did they compliment each other beautifully, but they each held their own and contributed to the overall flavor individually.

What was the music highlight of your year? 

The music highlight of the year either had to be M83 at the Fillmore - hearing “Wait” live, seeing their glimmering lights, experiencing the passion with which Anthony Gonzalez grips his mic, or how Morgan Kibby projects her striking vocals on stage is enough to raise you a little closer to heaven. Or, it was seeing Sigur Ros at Outside Lands. Their spirituality transcends the stage, and their haunting vocals make your spirit shiver. Don’t even get me started on the twinkling, star-like projections on stage that warmed your eyes like visual fire; you forgot about the icy chill in the air. All together, it was an ethereal experience.

Was there a moment when food and music came together in a memorable way?

I’d say my superwarm carnitas Tacolicious taco at Outside Lands was just the sustenance I needed to shrug off the SF chilliness so I could dance through Jack White. The salsa probably put a little pep in my step, too.