The little coffee house that could
Java Joe’s in East Ventura puts music back on the menu
By Chris Jay 10/22/2009
Much has been written about a particular downtown Ventura singer-songwriter venue and its tremendous contribution to the local acoustic music scene. From the booking of national touring artists to an unwavering support of local acts, it would seem, acoustically speaking it’s the only game in town.
Quietly though, in its shadow, a long-standing Ventura institution has been rebuilding its own music legacy. Nestled in the same complex as the Century 16 movie theaters on the easternmost edge of Ventura, is the gentle giant known as Java Joe’s.
Java Joe’s history goes back so far that even the venue’s booker doesn’t remember what year it opened. But what is certain is the vision of original owner and namesake, Joe Evans, who wanted to have a coffeehouse in the classic sense — a place where the community could come together over caffeine, of course, but also experience music, poetry and good conversation. Initially, he achieved that goal and Java Joe’s was the place for acoustic music. Time passed, though, and several different owners gradually changed the direction to the point that music became nonexistent. Java Joe’s was reduced to just another small coffeehouse trampled underfoot by Starbucks’ manifest destiny.
Enter Franco Kaelani. Exactly one year ago, he took over as the new owner of Java Joe’s and put his attention toward reviving the community aspect of the venue. While Kaelani went about changing the overall vibe, menu and decor, he also brought in frequent customer, J.B. King, to handle the music side of things.
King, a Los Angeles native, but Ventura resident for the past three years, brought in his sound system and went about setting up a booking plan and schedule. With years of experience as a musician, soundman and independent label owner, he used a Sunday night open-mic as the launching pad to full-time entertainment. Bringing in local mainstay Jonathan McEuen as his first featured performer, he quickly moved into the weekends, and began featuring bigger acts. In no time, Java Joe’s was regularly packing its 40-plus occupancy space to overflow, and its open-mic was being hailed as one of best to hit the area in years.
“My big thing is to give other bands and artists a chance to play a venue with great sound,” explained King shortly before another packed open-mic. “It’s amazing to see people, who haven’t played in years, be so inspired that they’re writing and performing again. Everyone at the open-mics is so supportive, it’s like a family.”
During the performances, coffee is still available for the moviegoers who frequent the establishment, but there is a cover charge to see concerts on the small yet fully-equipped stage. Getting paid is a rarity for most coffeehouse performers who tend to play for only the tip jar and rarely have a soundman.
Like all music scenes, Java Joe’s has already had some breakout acts, including the rock trio Kangus, who King has signed to his record label Pacific Rim, as well as talented 17-year-old local singer-songwriter Claire Marie, both of whom have shows scheduled in November. Along with the featured Friday and Saturday acts that range from folk to small rock bands, Java Joe’s sets itself apart from other themed nights with a Tuesday Christian open-mic and worship, a Thursday night comedy show and a ukulele night on Wednesdays, which needs to been seen and heard to be believed.
So with Zoey’s still in full-swing and the little coffeehouse by the movie theater once again doing big things, Ventura’s acoustic music scene is officially in a state of full resurgence, one hot cup of joe at a time.
Java Joe’s is located in the Century 16 shopping center at 2950 Johnson Drive, Ventura. For upcoming events, booking and further information, visit www.cafejavajoes.com or e-mail cafejavajoes@gmail.com.
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