When Rolling Stone Magazine recently named Baltimore as having the nation’s “Best Scene”, it left many people scratching their heads. How could Baltimore be considered as having the best music scene when most national acts pass up the city for larger venues in Philadelphia and Washington D.C.? Yet another segment of people agreed with Rolling Stone, and say they got it right…but about two years late.
The latter segment of people are probably those that are familiar with Baltimore’s vibrant and thriving underground music scene. This scene is led by loosely organized groups that often times draw hundreds of mostly young participants to dilapidated old buildings and warehouses in parts of town most people would never recognize to see performances that range from hip-hop to electronic, folk to jazz. Typically the shows are never advertised and sometimes the locations of the events are passed by word of mouth to those “in the know”. While not outwardly apparent, this scene is poised to build up Baltimore as a major player in the national music arena while energizing the city’s young residents and fostering even greater activity for Baltimore’s nightlife. While it’s hard to gauge the scope of this scene, it’s possible to get somewhat of an idea by exploring some of its pillars. Here’s to name a few:
Wham City - Music, art, performance, writings…this organization is mainly know by it’s annual Whartscape festival (scheduled this year for July 17th through 20th). Most of the events take place in and around the Station North neighborhood. http://www.whamcity.com/
Charm City Arts Space - All volunteer organization based out of a dilapidated rowhouse in the Station North neighborhood. There’s no sign and the place looks like it’s about to fall down, so you’d never notice the place if you were to walk or drive by. They have art and music events a few times a week. http://www.ccspace.org/index.php
The Talking Head Club - Originally located in a small building on an alley downtown, they’re currently operating out of Sonar at 407 E. Saratoga. The original building had no windows and appeared to be abandoned (which is probably why it shut down). http://www.talkingheadclub.com/
While not all people are likely to appreciate this unique part Baltimore culture, we can appreciate it for adding to the city’s quirkiness, coolness, and as some would say “charm”. After all, this is not anytown USA…this is Baltimore…this is to be expected.
jeffcantonite@yahoo.com
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