House Rules

And what about the competition? Mark Weiser, long-time talent coordinator for Tobacco Road, sees no threat from the newcomers. "It will be stimulating for people to have this kind of music in more than one location. I'd like to think the club will succeed," Weiser says. "Whenever someone comes into the area with a similar format, they're perceived as competition, but actually these clubs help to increase the number of people interested in the music. They'll bring in new customers we normally wouldn't get, and the whole scene will be bigger and better."

The official opening for the Talkhouse will feature Loup Garou, beginning this Friday. The six-member band has been heating up the New York scene for a number of years with its funky zydeco. Veteran rock musician Dave Mason will bring his new band to the Talkhouse on July 31 and August 1. The club will also provide opportunities for local bands to show their stuff, and a weekly open jam session is planned. Consider checking it out. You never know who might show up.