Author: Michael Ursu
Let’s face it. Being in L.A. without a car is like being in space without a spaceship – there’s so much to see, but you’re stuck floating in the same spot. And with the music scene that’s happening here, you’re missing out on a lot.
Surprisingly enough, Eagle Rock boasts a sweet coffee shop that doubles as a home to some great live music nights – and it’s even in walking distance.
Casa Princesa is a café located on York Boulevard, only four blocks away from campus. Its interior is dotted with a few very comfy chairs, some stools and a handful of tables.
To call it a venue would be a bit questionable, because it’s more of a place to lounge rather than to rock your socks off. One wouldn’t normally think that this small coffee shop (which is also home to Sign-O-Rama, a sign-making store, if you’re interested) could be used as a place for live music.
But since the beginning of the school year, they’ve had musical acts performing every Thursday night from 8 to 10:30 p.m. The Independent Scene, as the show is called, is dedicated to young aspiring musicians who are just starting out, as well as to people who need a quaint place to play.
Deron Wade, the coordinator of the open mic nights, is always excited to have Occidental students in the audience – and especially on stage.
It is an incredible opportunity – and I speak from experience, as my band, Trysteria, played there two weeks ago.If you’re a musician, Casa Princesa is probably the most accessible place for you to play. Since it’s only four blocks away from campus, you can invite all your friends to come see you play – and this time, they don’t have an excuse not to come. All you have to do to get signed up is send Wade an e-mail and start promoting your act.
While the acts perform, people get the chance to meet each other, as well as get to know the musicians after the show.
Wade likes for the acts to all show up at around 7:45 p.m., giving the performers time to mingle amongst themselves before they play. The comfortable environment helped us relax as well as kick out the jams.
On a Thursday night, Casa Princesa is really the place to be for some great live music. You’ll hear all different kinds of bands ranging from indie rock projects, to rock and roll, and even hip hop on some nights.
It’s a great place to play if you’re a musician, and even if you’re not, it’s a great place to eat and enjoy some chill tunes. Wade is really dedicated to getting unknown artists out there, and thus is a great resource for aspiring Eagle Rock musicians.
Besides great music, Casa Princesa is a lesser known but still excellent coffee shop, and the coffee there is to die for. They like to use rich, decadent Ghirardelli chocolate in their café mochas and offer a variety of equally decadent beverages.
The fresh panini and exotic blended smoothies they serve are exceptional as well, and they also give discounts to Oxy students.
If you’re itching for some sweet sound waves vibrating in your ear, then no place is closer than Casa Princesa.
So if the common room is looking a bit dull on Thursday night, or you just want to get some pretty good coffee and sandwiches, head over to Casa Princesa – you won’t be disappointed.
To get to Casa Princesa, walk down Hazelwood and make a right on York Blvd. Walk two blocks down and you’ll see it – the address is 4527 York Blvd.
If you’re interested in performing, e-mail Deron Wade at independentscene@gmail.com.
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