Rock and Roll with a Cup of Joe

• by Lexie Stuivenvolt Allen
• from the October 2008 issue of The Bulldog Press

What combines slam poetry, comedic acts, acapella songs, streaming hot coffee and hardcore rock and roll?

A lot of students at Judge are talented when it comes to performing - and a lot of these same students rarely get the chance to show off their stuff. Thus, the birth of Coffee House.

The first Coffee House hosted by Student Council for the 2008-09 school year took place on October 22, and was therefore dubbed Rocktober. Although usually held outdoors, Rocktober was hosted inside the auditorium foyer because of the cool weather. The performers were able to show off in front of the windows, giving them a gorgeous backdrop of the city at night.

With a good sized crowd, a table lined with candles, cookies and coffee, and enjoyable entertainment, Rocktober was a major success. The foyer was invaded by Stephen Lynch, Ingrid Michaelson, Tom Petty, and some not so kid-friendly jokes all in the form of talented Judge students. One of the best things about Coffeehouse (Rocktober) is that anyone can perform.

Jakob Garcia, a junior and a participant, said, "The best part about Coffee House is getting to watch other people play, especially new acts. Performing is awesome too." Jakob is a member of Order of the Phoenix. Other band members include Griffin Rowland, Mason Hickman, and Alexander Benjamin. Griffin Rowland said, "The best part about playing in front of people is definitely the performer's high."

Even those who didn't participate in Rocktober had a fantastic time watching. Rebecca Teynor said, "It was really fun. Some of the bands sang 'Flight of the Conchords' song and it was great." Katie Hoskins adds: "The cookies were good, too."

Coffee Houses are great ways to get involved and meet new people, even if you don't play or perform. But don't be shy - there are tons of possibilities for getting up and showing your stuff!

Sean Sweeny and Ryan Sabol mixed the night up with their slam poetry and comedic acts. Jake Evans braved the mic and sang completely acapella - captivating everyone with his robust voice. Instrumental pieces wound their way in as well, adding to the already diverse night of performances. First-time performer Seth Zost really upped the bar for future Coffee Houses, singing alongside Mason Hickman. They sang songs from 'Flight of the Conchords,' cracking up the audience with their "binary solos" and robot imitations. So if you have been playing guitar since you were three or even if you just picked it up yesterday, sign up for future Coffeehouses. They are an awesome addition to Judge's music lovin' community.

Coffeehouse [Rocktober] Performers

• Alexander Benjamin
• Mason Hickman
• Jakob Garcia
• Ryan Sabol
• Seth Zost
• Sean Sweeny
• Jake Evans
• Laura Whittaker
• Nick Shifrar
• Andrew Arrendondo
• Anthony Bell
• Max Sharp (Rowland Hall)
• LeVaughn Wilkins
• Alex Grunerud
• Josea Padilla