Bowerbird and REC Philly set up shop in new University City venues

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Philadelphia’s music scene is about to get even more eclectic thanks to an exciting new pair of venues, as the Philadelphia Weekly reported last week. Whether it’s the intimate and avant-garde or an incubator for up-and-coming creatives, there’s something for everyone here, now more than ever. You maybe, maybe had an excuse before, but if you can’t find a good show to go to in 2017, it’s now, officially, all on you.

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After ten seasons and a slew of venues spread out across the city, Bowerbird has staked its claim on a brand new space at University Lutheran Church on Chestnut Street between 36th and 38th. Since 2006, the Philadelphia-based non-profit has provided a voice for experimental and outsider music, and now, they have a permanent platform to keep that voice alive. Fans of their programming at spots like The Rotunda need not worry, as those shows aren’t going away any time soon. Rather, they now have flexibility to put on more than ever before. Earlier this month, they celebrated the space’s grand-opening with BowerBall, a fundraiser featuring bingo, prizes, and music. More shows will be announced as 2017 gets into full-swing, but the venue already boasts upcoming performances by Bowerbird’s cutting-edge Arcana ensemble. The venue still needs your help, though, so if Tibetan throat singers, avant-garde composers, and oddball films are your cup of tea, check out their Indiegogo here.

Since its inception, REC Philly has fostered the development of young musicians, creatives, and entrepeneurs in the greater Philadelphia area. Their RECRoom studio space boasts a recording and rehearsal studio, a photo and video lab, and a lounge. Hell, there’s even a meditation room, but now they’re expanding their operation with Live! at William Street Common — just down the street from Bowerbird at 39th and Chestnut. The space had its soft-opening earlier this month, and has already begun hosting a bi-weekly open mic night. Starting next year, the 300-capacity venue will host a diverse offering of new music and other entertainment, but you can check it out now every Thursday-Saturday night and have a drink at one of its two bars.  REC Philly has always helped those willing to help themselves, and that philosophy is sure to carry over into the booking at WSC. If you don’t believe me, check out their “Mannequin Challenge”, shot at the RECRoom, above.

For more information on both of these venues, including a spotlight on The Block (Harrah’s new bar/venue/casino space in Chester county), head over to Philadelphia Weekly.