|
Its been a tough year for smaller bands in Modesto. We are fighting a battle to keep venues and we're losing. The good news is that new venues will emerge. The bad news is that the current state of the scene is not at the same level it was just a year ago.
Clubs are hurting:
Over the past two years we have lost no less than four music style clubs starting with the closing of Charlie's Spirits. It was followed in quick succession by the shuttering of El Palomar, The Dirty Duck, and The Red Pepper. Three of the four believe it or not were shut down for financial reasons. The fourth was lost via nieghborhood compaints and subsequent loss of dance permit.
The Future:
It is going to be a tough summer for local musicians in Modesto, but there is hope on the way. With some planning I think we should be able to have a decent summer for local music, but we need to work together. The Downtown Improvement District is planning a summer concert series on the court house lawn and the City of Modesto is going to be doing some shows in 10th Street place. If you wish to participate in these events we are going to be looking for bands of all formats to play at these events. The Xclamation Festival 2002 was approved by the City Council and will again light up the street of Downtown Modesto on July 20th, 2002. If you are interested in playing on any of these events please contact me at chris@chrisriccipresents.com.
New Venues:
My sources seem to show some solid possibilities for new venues. I think that it will take a year or so to happen, but I think once they come they will be here to say. We will learn from the mistakes of the past and come back stronger. There are so many possibilities and potential. We need to keep a positive attitude and work together to create venues for local musicians to play at.
I am looking forward to 2002 and 2003. I think that soon enough Modesto will again be the shining star of the valley for independent musicians.
|
