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Down and Dirty : Club Lust? More like Club Dust. But the beer and music flow.

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SPECIAL TO THE TIMES

Most everyone hates Mondays, but maybe a little less since Club Lust launched recently at the Shack in Anaheim. When the Shack transforms into a love shack, patrons can indulge their sensual side.

Beckoned by 50-cent draft beers, a thirsty horde flocked to the Shack for Club Lust’s maiden voyage last week. After a few 10-ounce plastic cups apiece, plenty of patrons began to add new booze stains to the carpet.

Leaning elbows on slimy tables, sitting in sticky, beer-soaked chairs, partyers went about the business of partying, perfectly happy in the dust-covers-everything environment.

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The night began with DJ Gavin spinning house, hip-hop and disco, then the crowd was treated to a performance by the all-female punk band 4-Gazm. Original tunes by L.P., Lisa, Pamela, Jennifer and Sarah Lee blasted for about an hour, then it was back to dance music.

Clubs rarely combine the diverse musical styles of rap and live hard-core punk during one night, but here it was definitely wise. The band was not only a crowd-pleaser, but it also provided a little acculturation for die-hard fans of each group.

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As part of its opener, Club Lust had a giveaway sponsored by local clothing companies Extreme Boardshop, Electric Chair and Unique Sporting Pro Gear. Many patrons dived to grab propelled freebies. Fortunately, no one got hurt.

Comfort is almost nonexistent at Club Lust. Though a few ceiling fans whirl full-speed, ventilation is poor; there probably wasn’t a dry armpit in the house. Of course, there are a few couches and plenty of stools, so one can sit and glisten instead of stand and sweat.

Don’t worry, no one will see your pit stains. The club’s cave-like darkness significantly impairs vision. This may be a plus, as the Shack’s decor consists of cheesy inflatable cactuses and football helmets.

Luckily, there’s an outdoor patio where you can relax on dirty plastic lawn furniture. Feel you’re about to suffocate? Run outside and catch a lung full of fresh air . . . or cigarette smoke.

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If you decide that the crowd isn’t your cup of tea and you don’t want to mingle, there are video games, darts and pool to keep you busy. In your solitude, you may notice that all 10 televisions are off--except for the two at the bar.

And what’s this? The beloved Jagermeister (yes, that thick, brown, strong liquor tasting of licorice) dispenser is empty. Shucks.

Most likely, though, this crowd didn’t drink it all. Lust attracted a youthful clientele on its first night; one would expect this at an 18-and-over club. Still, there were plenty of experienced partyers to show them the way.

With security tight, be prepared to prove your age. Not only must you show I.D. and endure a quick pat-down, but also you’re tagged with a red bracelet and a nice hand stamp.

If you’re of age, you can buy a lovely $2 Long Island iced tea. There are also $2 well drinks, wine and domestic beers.

Club Lust promoters Kevin Helms, Jeff Allen, Michael Bertuccini, Albert Spinelli and Mark Anthony plan to invite a band to perform each week. They encourage all to “dress to impress.”

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BE THERE

* Club Lust is open from 8:30 p.m. to 2 a.m. Mondays at the Shack, 1160 N. Kraemer Blvd., Anaheim. (714) 630-0121. Cover charge: $5 for 21 and over, $8 for 18-20. 18 and over only.

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