Interesting places attract interesting people so it’s safe to say that the Blackwater Cafe, in Stockton Ca, has more characters than a font program. A hidden gem nestled between tree lined streets in a quiet neighborhood it also doubles as “The best live music venue in SJ valley.” It has the feel of a big city hole- in-the-wall you find as a surprise . An eclectic coffee bar, study room, artistic hangout…. limitless possibilities. No one here is telling you what to do or how to think. It’s not about the talent pool or making money. It’s about the music, spoken word, personal expression and “Creating a community without attitudes.” It’s all about the experience.
The Blackwater Café has been steeped in local history for decades and like anything well talked about, it has a reputation. This place definitely lives up to expectation. It oozes artistic freedom. I could feel the creative inspiration before I even entered the café. There is an outside, street level patio, where you are welcome to sit, smoke and relax. The café itself is small, but secure in itself to deliver the goods. It has tiny round tables in front of a space designated the stage by the front windows and a few booths drift along the right side. You are encouraged to hang out and loaf. Bring your laptop and enjoy free wifi access, bring your instrument and play something. Don’t have an instrument but feel the urge? Pick one up from the many lying around and express yourself. It’s a whatever way of life. Read, write, watch. The Blackwater Café is always seeking free spirits to “Create, listen, enjoy or participate!”
I thought the perfect time to go and check out the vibe would be Open Mic Night. They have one every Wednesday at 8 pm . When you see so many people not afraid to be themselves, it’s intimidating. The host of the evening, Vondubz, was completely comfortable in his skin and seemed to know the “Regulars.” He let us know that the floor was ours. We could sing, play the guitar, read aloud a chapter of a favorite book or tell a joke. If we wanted to test out some new material, this was the place. Everybody here is an individual and that’s what makes The Blackwater Café unique.
One of the performers sat down on the rickety stool in front of the good sized crowd and strung his out -of- tune guitar, creating some raunchy feedback. He reflectively said “ Oh my God that sounds horrible…It’s perfect! ” That summed up my night. It was perfect! I spent the night listening to sketchy, but pleasing renditions of B-side Rolling Stones tunes, The Beatles and Bob Dylan classics. I heard “originals”, random piano keys tinkering and acoustic opera. It was mellow and laid back. I sat next to a poet, a long since treasured profession and had my tarot cards read for tips.
If you need a little alcohol to fuel your talent or voyeuristic tendencies they offer wine and beer. And not the kind you would find at Applebees, but a funky selection of indie bottles like Blue Moon or Arrogant Bastard wine. Legend has it Newcastle Pale Ale is sometimes sold here for a buck a pint. A legend worth repeating.
The Blackwater Café has the best espresso drinks in town; along with tea, juice and soda. They serve breakfast, lunch and munchies. Order the tacos, they are a late night favorite. Everything is reasonably priced for the starving artist or the relatively broke. You can get a comforting bowl of soup or yummy specialty sandwiches. Bagels and pastries are baked fresh daily.
The Blackwater Café is currently seeking performance artists and musicians that play folk, country, reggae, jazz and blues. For more info or bookings call 209.943.6938 or visit www.blackwatercafestockton.com. Open seven days a week. Come as you are, and have a cup of coffee while you here.
Blackwater Cafe
912 North Yosemite Street
Stockton, California 95203.
Sunday -Tuesday 6:30 AM to 10:00 PM
Wednesday – Thursday 6:30 AM to 11:00 PM
Friday – Saturday 6:30 AM to 12:00 PM
