KEVIN MENZ
Arts Writer

Usually a university student’s Friday night plans do not consist of a coffee shop. However, Mystic Java’s Friday night acoustic shows seem to be changing that.

A couple of weeks ago, Talk Show host Jason Hattie played an acoustic set at the small coffee shop.

The environment was pleasant and unconventional, and the concert set-up didn’t completely take over the venue. Hattie had set up at the back of the shop, away from the front counter. This made it possible for those customers who just wanted to meet some friends for coffee to ignore Hattie and enjoy the intimate coffee shop conversations they are used to. It also allowed those who were there for the show to grab a table close to where Hattie was set-up.

Of the diverse crowd, which included his supporters, computer-nerds and the usual coffee shop customers, Hattie said, “You always get the support up front. The mid-venue guys who maybe don’t mind the music but are just there to crush (World of Warcraft’s) Azeroth are totally fine by me. I mean it takes a lot of dedication to ding 80. And the older folk in the back who are trying to ignore me are what they are. It makes for good cannon fodder.”

Nicole Warriner, an employee at Mystic Java, also likes the crowd that the acoustic shows bring in.

“We have acoustic shows every Friday night,” said Warriner. “What I like about it is the variety, the atmosphere and the customers it brings in.”

Being an acoustic show, it still allowed for intimate conversations. In fact, even at the tables right in front of Hattie, the acoustic setting made the perfect backdrop for conversation.

Of course, just the acoustic music on its own made for a great setting.

“It’s nice listening to some rad tunes over a cup of tea and a slice of apple pie,” said Mystic Java customer, Alex Bergerman. “I may consider going on a regular basis.”

“Sometimes coffee shops are just a nice change of pace from the bar scene. It’s just a nice little place to go and sing a few tunes — not much pressure and you can just relax and play what you want,” said Hattie.

Indeed, Mystic Java’s Friday night acoustic shows is a superb change from the typical bar nights; they are relaxing and they provide a good atmosphere for music and conversation. I will also, most definitely, consider going on a regular basis.

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