Do we Envy, Club Envy?
by Marques Gunter
posted Jan 1, 2005

Club Envy
234 W. Larned St.
Detroit 48226
(313) 647-2504

Club Envy hosts Salsa Nights every Friday. The club is located in downtown Detroit just a few blocks away form the popular hip-hop nightclub Legends. There is no cover before 10pm, so get there early. I recalled either a $5 or $8 cover for the fashionably late. Envy offers two floors of entertainment. The main level is Salsa, Merengue, Bachata and Reggaeton. The second level is Latin House, House, Techno and Hip-Hop. Salsa and Techno being my top 2 dance music of choice was a plus in my book. Rotation on the main level was balanced. I only stayed on the second level for one song, not long enough to form an impression. Envy has a wood dance floor, and can handle a reasonable number of dancers. There were some impressive dancers who displayed their own unique styling. I notice an older gentleman and a younger lady on the dance floor. Their style and precision captured my attention for an entire song. Later that evening, I received the honor of dancing with the lady. Although I was not as polished as the other gentleman I did enjoyed the dance. I also danced with a dance instructor and received some good advice and complements on my lead.

The club's location was its only shortcoming in my book. Downtown Detroit has a known criminal element, but has gotten better in the recent years. While the crowd was very friendly, in the back of my mind I was thinking about my car parked on that dark street corner. Envy does provide secure parking for a small fee. There was no sign for the club in front of the building. My friend and I passed by the place, but turned back around because we notice a doorman. I don?t mean to pick on every little thing, but what is up with Envy's promo flyer? Either they tried to hard to come up with something original or did not try at all (I wonder if I will get some hate mail for that last comment?). My experience at Club Envy was much better then Sangria. Both clubs are hosted by the same DJ, but Envy had a more experience crowed. Keep in mind that the majority of dancers are on beat. If you dance to your own drum, dancing can prove difficult. Especially if you were looking for that second dance.

Special thanks to my non-salsa friend Sheila for accompanying me to Envy. She said that her first impression of the salsa scene was a good one.

Dancers Tip: When salsa dancing in different cities sit out for the first one or two salsa songs. This will give you the opportunity to get familiar with their style and to spot the good dancers. If you do not you may not be able to experience their style of dancing if you keep dancing with inexperienced dancers (been there done that).