The Open Mic at Oakland Java had some stiff competition with the carnival in town for only three days, but the audience Friday night was both enthusiastic and relaxed as they enjoyed some acoustics sets and poetic readings. These modern day troubadours bring an important dynamic to town, and hopefully Oakland Java will continue to be a venue for local talent. The value of live entertainment in one establishment has proven to be a benefit for the surrounding businesses, and this should be the same in Oakland.
Live music and entertainment has been used by many communities as a draw to bring people into the downtown area. As poets continued to tweak their selections that would be read, and musicians began to warm up, there was definitely a feeling of excitement in the air. This is the oldest form of entertainment, before theaters, before movies, before television, video games and Internet, there existed the poet and the musician . It refreshes not only the downtown area, but refreshes the spirit of those in attendance to see the heart of creativity on display.
The increase in gas prices is forcing many people to “Think Local”, and they will feel right at home in Oakland Java. The coffeehouse is Jersey centric with baked goods and coffee coming from NJ vendors, as well as New Jersey soda. Besides adding that local flavor to the ambiance, it helps our local and regional economy in difficult times.
The Oakland Journal is providing readers with a sample of Friday night’s performance, but don’t consider it a replacement for actually getting out and about and seeing the show live. Thanks to Alyssa Sigler
for providing this clip of her performance singing “Pressure”