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Zen reigns as
almost-new nightclub

Nightclubbers got the chance to experience Honolulu's newest venue last weekend -- sort of.

Saturday marked the grand opening of Zen Nightclub, located in the space formerly known as Reign. Much of the club's interior remains unchanged, except for one major switch: Instead of entering on Kona Street, patrons are now directed toward a new entrance a block over, next to Side Street Inn.

Zen's remodeled entryway helps push traffic toward a new satellite bar and a portion of the main bar that had been underutilized. A new coat of paint and creative use of fabric and fishnet canopies help freshen up the vibe, along with the addition of bed-like couches near the dance floor.

Besides having the same owners, the club retains the same promoter on Saturdays. Rick Rock continues to pack in the 18-and-over crowd with "Sinsation Saturdays," and he threw a "Sexy Summer Beach Party" on Sunday at the club ...

I HAVE to admit, I was unimpressed by the "Take Out Comedy Tour" that wrapped up on Thursday and Friday at Pipeline Cafe. Of all the comics, I liked Paul Ogata and Shawn Felipe the most. Joey Guila's beatboxing was pretty good, too.

Due to time management issues, Ogata had to rush his set on Thursday, disappointing some. And host Jami Gong seemed more annoying than entertaining.

At one point, Gong told a woman in the audience to "shut the f- up," then alienated himself more when he confused a local as being Latino. Later, he started a joke with a remark about how things are done "back in the states" ...

FOLLOWING UP on last week's mention of "Band Camp 3" on June 15 -- presale tickets are $25, and are available at all Ticketmaster outlets. A special all-ages pre-show by Senses Fail is also planned, with $15 advance tickets available only at Local Motion stores. Call 296-1019 for more details ...

IF YOU'VE still got an itch to party after the long weekend, head over to Bliss Nightclub tonight. Ed, the single-named leader of Sick Dog Productions, celebrates his birthday by kicking off a new weekly.

Joined by Ambiguous Clothing, Ed presents performances by Neken and Emirc this week, with DJs A2Z and Jahson the 45 Revolver on the decks. Happy birthday, Sick Dog ...