RIP Monster Island (And Brooklyn DIY?)
by Lauren Beck
Do you have a favorite memory of playing Monster Island Basement?
Having played Monster Island on tour and working or attending shows there since living in Brooklyn, I just loved the after-show dance party that always ensued where everyone just got loose. Seemed like everyone who stuck around just wanted to have fun. I prefer that so much more, as a lot of shows can be a packed room at a dead gaze standstill. I've wandered out of there a champ of the night and a also self-inflicted victim of the party.
How about of another band you've seen play there? Anyone in particular stand out?
I was really digging a Woods semi-acoustic set I saw there this past winter.
With Market Hotel and Monster Island now closed, not to mention the recent troubles Silent Barn has faced, there's been some talk about the death of Brooklyn's DIY scene. Do you feel as though it's as vibrant as it once was?
I know there are well-attended DIY basement shows, loft shows, house shows, and that kinda stuff popping up all over Bushwick lately. I think kids know it's a big pot of people in Brooklyn and they can be successful doing shows themselves. It's like field of dreams: set it up, let 'em know, and people will show up.
If not, does that bum you out, or do you chalk it up to the natural progression of any so-called music scene?
Nothing is forever. You can't run under the radar forever; change is inevitable.
Comments (2)
Showing 1-2 of 2
