New nightspot aims for Vegas style

Sound waves like never before are being heard in the Spokane Valley.

Two friends and fellow band members have combined their business skills and innovative ideas to open the area’s newest nightclub and restaurant. They call it Club Max and describe it as a House of Motown, jazz and blues.

Nu Jack City band members Max Daniels and Bill Johnson are hopeful the ambience and atmosphere they’ve created at Club Max will capture the imaginations of Inland Northwest residents, particularly baby boomers looking for a night out.

“It seems we have filled a need in the Spokane Valley with offering a safe, comfortable environment where people can come and be around other adults, have a meal and listen to great music,” said Johnson, who serves as the club’s president. “What we’re shooting for is a Vegas-style night.”

Club Max opened Aug. 2 in the building many might recall as the former location of the old Plantation restaurant. Club Max features a full menu, including a children’s menu, and minors are allowed in all areas except the bar until 9 p.m. After that, minors are allowed in a seating area separate from the dance floor and stage.

Johnson and Daniels plan to fill the historic building they’ve renovated with a variety of music styles where customers are able to enjoy live entertainment, step out onto the 300-square-foot dance floor, and enjoy conversation without having to yell or strain to hear friends.

In creating the club, the two men said they wanted to provide a type of venue that was less commonplace in the Spokane area. Daniels says Motown in the club’s description is mainly about the feeling of the music and the atmosphere.

“I love the art of music. I love music,” says Daniels, who serves as the club’s general manager. “My appreciation to Spokane is this (club). They have supported me as a musician.”

Some of the ambience comes from the back wall of their fully equipped stage – even when no one is performing. The wall once covered with green indoor/outdoor carpet is now an artist’s rendering of familiar silhouettes, such as the Supremes. This backdrop alone can draw customers into a musical mood.

As house band, Nu Jack City will perform two weekends a month. And owners emphasize Club Max is about sharing the stage for new and existing artists.

Jazz jams are reserved for Sunday evenings; Tuesday and Wednesday evenings are for karaoke; Thursday evenings will feature new and original artists; Friday and Saturday evenings will feature scheduled bands from near and far.

And with the club seating capacity of 300, Daniels explained they are capable of accommodating bigger attractions.