It was the end of March (March 24, 2004) when I walked into the Open mic night at Coffee Blue, located at 1000 Main Street, in Belmar, N.J.

The open mic night runs every Wednesday from 7pm to midnight. Located off G.S.P. exit 98, Coffee Blue attracts local musicians from Brick to Red Bank. Sign-ups start at 6:00pm. and your host Don Lee attempts to allocate 15 minutes of playing time to each performer.

The open mic provides microphones, guitar pick-ups, and a very decent PA system with a stage providing ample room for acoustic performers. Coffee Blue has a feel free atmosphere with a long dark wood coffee bar that greets you as you walk in the front door. The high school age audience could also sit at tables in front of the stage or on couches in the upper back area to have the music as just part of the background.
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If you’re a performer eager to share your talents and the places you frequent just don’t cut it: LOOK NO FURTHER. The Sanctuary at 43 West Main Street in Somerville is the place for you! Their ‘not to be missed’ open mic is every Tuesday from 8 to 11pm. All styles of local music are represented, along with poetry, comedy, etc. (you name it!).

The show is hosted by Reverent James ‘the Voice’ Hatton -- a mysterious man of many talents! It begins with the opening ‘theme song’ and a set of clearly defined rules. First time performers (The regulars at The Sanctuary’s Open Mic call them ‘virgins’) are warmly welcomed, and support is encouraged for all who take the stage.

The show takes place in a large back room housing many comfortable antique couches and chairs, a large chandelier and an impromptu spotlight. A menu of generous selections is available for a nominal fee. Sign-up is at 6 PM sharp every Tuesday.

To sign up, be there in person or call Reverend James at 908-725-0808. Promptness is encouraged, as the schedule is often full by 6:15PM! Check out their web site at http://www.freewebs.com/sanctuarynj for more details.
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