ANGOLA - On one corner of Public Square on Thursday nights, one may hear the sounds of drums and quiet vocals. Then, after only a short stroll to the other side of the block, there is the wailing of electric guitars and heavy bass lines. Thursday night has become open microphone night in Angola. The tradition started with Skip's Lounge, 110 W. Maumee St., about five months ago. At that time, the bar stopped having a band on Thursday nights, dropped the cover charge and invited area acts to strut their stuff on the stage. Skip's has a sound board and speakers it provides so the music has a full, amplified sound. A guitar, bass and some hand drums are also available, though Joel Van Gompel, who regularly organizes Skip's open mike nights, said, "Bring your own instruments, by all means." He noted that extra microphones, speakers and other sound equipment also come in handy. Getting on Skip's stage on Thursdays is as easy as signing up for a time slot. The night starts at 7 p.m. and lasts as long as people play. "I've been emceeing every chance I get," Van Gompel added. He also fills in on some fledgling bands, adding to bass, guitar or drum lines where they are needed. "I try to round it out," he said. The Grateful Groove's performance Thursday night was a really good example of what open mike night is about, Van Gompel said. "Those guys were really good," he said. Van Gompel said the talent that is often attracted by open stage nights equals a good show for those who are looking for a little entertainment on a Thursday night. "That is ultimately what to me open mike night is for," Van Gompel said. While the jamming goes on into the night at Skip's, Sutton's Deli, 140 N. Public Square, also offers a place for people to showcase their musical talents. Sutton's started an open mike night about a month ago at the request of area youths who wanted a place to gather and play their instruments. "We did it last year for awhile," said Chris Sutton of Sutton's. The restaurant's jam sessions start at 6 p.m. and end at 8 p.m. The musicians play in the front table area of the restaurant with their audience seated at the surrounding tables. The music is acoustic only. Thursday night, there was practically a full house at the deli. While the Grateful Groove and their repertoire may have accounted for a few more people than usual, Sutton said the open mike night at the deli had been well received by local youths. "We're pretty laid back," she said. There are no rules, and Sutton said she didn't think the people who went there to play needed them. Everyone is just there for a good time and good music. Amy Oberlin |