Author: Michael Ursu
Want to enjoy music but have no means of transportation? Or maybe you don’t want to travel so far away? Just walk toward Colorado Boulevard from Eagle Rock. Besides the usual Blockbuster and gas stations, you’ll notice something else: a small building that looks almost like a church. Outside the elevated yard of this building is a sign that simply says “The Eagle Rock Center for the Arts.”
Normally one wouldn’t think that this unassuming building could provide for a rockin’ night. However, the same people who brought you the Eagle Rock Music Festival definitely don’t disappoint when they take the festival indoors. Yes, the Eagle Rock Center for the Arts is, among other things, actually a concert venue for up and coming bands in the area.
At first glance, the Center deceives any regular concert-goer: The high rise ceiling, statuesque pillars and front desk are not characteristic of most rock band venues. However, the big, open space in the middle of the Center, the dark atmosphere and the small stage are surprisingly perfect for hosting concerts. The open space is ideal for a crowd and moshing, while the small stage lets the audience feel like they’re part of the show.
The intimacy of the venue is enhanced by the local concert-goers moshing around. Though you may trip over your own toes (or someone else’s!) in the crowded pit, these local music lovers would definitely have your back. To make the concert experience even more intimate, the venue also employs no bodyguards, so you can stand as close to the stage as you want. The stage isn’t too far off the ground, so that gives the band and the audience a chance to connect with each other.
At the concert I attended on Oct. 16, there was a down to earth atmosphere between the musicians and the crowd – almost every band chose to mingle with the audience. When a relatively new band named Moses Campbell played, I remember the guitarist yelling out, “You know, you guys can move around a bit!” So we did. In fact we might have moved around too much, but that didn’t stop the singer from coming down from the stage and rocking out with us too.
Dan Deacon, an electronic music artist who headlined Lollapalooza recently, also took advantage of the close proximity with the crowd. As he had us copying his dance moves, we formed a massive revolving, expanding circle. Whether the featured bands want you to dance or just stand and look pretty, definitely expect some interaction at shows here.
It was a wild night and possibly one of the most exciting concerts I’ve been to – and it was only a few blocks away from the campus. So, if you’re looking for some nearby live music, then check out the Eagle Rock Center for the Arts. It’s not too far away and you’re bound to hear some cool tunes. You may also get the chance to meet the bands after they perform, since most of them usually stick around and watch each other perform.
The Web site for the Center is www.centerartseaglerock.org, where you can check out the calendar for some up and coming events. Next show is on Dec. 4.
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