Around Benson Joe Watson

For our inaugural issue of the Benson news, we’ll take a look at the live music scene here in Benson. There have been some big changes over the last 5 years, with new venues, recording studios, and the Saddle Creek record label moving in. (surely there must be somewhere in Benson for you guys to build?) We’ll start on the eastern edge and move west; Jerome Brich’s Folkhouse, 2440 Fontenelle Blvd. continues to bring in touring folk artists; in the comfort of one of Benson’s beautiful old homes. Website- www.geocities.com/folkhouse2000/ Common Grounds Coffee House, 5603 NW Radial, also features national and local folk musicians; (Louis Armstrong said, “I’m a folk musician, ain’t I a folk?”) I didn’t see anything scheduled on their website but I assume there will be upcoming concerts. Nice venue, the folks at Benson Presbyterian make you feel at home. Then, across the street to Louis bar where Earl Bates presides over the Wednesday night Acoustic Jam, now in it’s 28^th year. Yes, bring your instrument and stand up; or if you don’t play, there is karaoke on the weekends. (They are building a new game room!) The newest music venue in Benson is Mick’s Music bar, 59^th and Maple- live acoustic music Wednesday through Sunday, open mic’s and poetry readings; this place is the Cadillac of local music venues. Heading west on Maple is the Pizza Shoppe, the food is great (Amy is having a 9^th anniversary party) the music is varied and sincere. Get’s my vote for best jukebox in Benson. Espana is in its second year as a first class restaurant, it also features Flamenco music and dancing, you can get a schedule when you make dinner reservations. Still heading west on Maple is D Dub’s Pub, (Beer, it’s not just a breakfast drink) they have live bands on the weekend, usually blues and classic rock, great stage, roadhouse ambience.

I know the Nifty and the Barley Street Tavern have had live music in the past- if you know of additional places to hear live music, let me know at gitrjoe@msn.com Hope you enjoy the new format of the Newsletter. We hope you will support it, contribute and give us feedback.