Tried and True
(The Cave)

I ventured into Chapel Hill last week, where I haven’t spent a whole lot of time.  I went to the Cavern Tavern, otherwise known as The Cave, which apparently has been around for 40 years.  So, they must be doing something right. I went in search of The Cave to see my friend Taz perform, but I breezed right by the place.

As you make your way down Franklin Street, look for Uniquities and West End Wine bar.  There is a sign and a set of stairs between the two and The Cave is at the bottom of the stairs on the left.  Nonetheless, I eventually made it to my destination.  I must say The Cave does live up to its name; there are low ceilings and its dark, long, and narrow.  It reminds me of a secret clubhouse and this club is all about original music.  The Cave offers live music every day of the week.  As a rule, every band or singer must perform original songs.  The owner, Mr. Mouse plans to continue this longstanding tradition.  He is a lover and supporter of local music and has been going to The Cave since 1988.  Mr. Mouse says that he “stepped into the [Chapel Hill] music scene through the back door of The Cave.”

Mr. Mouse told me about some exciting parties coming up.  On Sunday, May 18 there will be a Zombie Party hosted by Orman Grimsby, from the show, Monster Creature Feature.  Anyone who dresses like a zombie will get in for free and have the opportunity to be an extra in some film sequences filmed by Orman, himself.  The party starts at 8:00 pm and the cover is $5.  Dexter Romweber, The Tremors, and the Killer Fillers will provide entertainment.

In the near future there will be a Rock and Roll Spelling Bee.  The participants will include 20 locals and all words will be associated with music. The fifth annual Rock, Paper, Scissors tournament will be held on Sunday, August 24.  Get to The Cave by 5:00 pm to sign up and play time begins at 6:00 pm.  There is a $2 entry fee and the top three winners receive cash and prizes.  The event sounds like a blast!  How funny.

If you haven’t made it to The Cave yet, what are you waiting for?  There is no other venue where you can see so many awesome local bands for $5.  There will also be a hat passed around so that you can show additional support for the bands by chipping in a few dollars.  Check www.caverntavern.com to decide which bands you would like to see. Here's an interesting note - you can take your best friend, your dog, with you to The Cave.  If you ever find yourself sitting at home some night tired of studying and there’s nothing on tv, get yourself over to The Cave to meet some new friends and rock out to the awesome, passionate local musicians.  Rock on!