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| Here's what the folks in the press are saying about us... |
| PHOENIX NEW TIMES Sunday, June 27th 2004 Seems a genuine cafe culture is brewing in Phoenix . . . so buck the Starbucks and bolster local mom-and-pop joints, like Mama Java's Coffeehouse -- a little spot that's big on charm and "dedicated to the concepts of neighborhood, community and open-mindedness." On Sunday, June 27, Mama's got a brand-new bag: Local artist Stephen Michael Barnes unveils "Pictures From My House: A Selection of Paintings, Pastels, Watercolors and Drawings -- 2003-2004." From 7 to 9 p.m., the opening festivities feature performances by violinist Dasha Hlavenka, poet Chris Burawa, performance artists Steve and Theresa Ferreira, and musicians The Real McKays. The show hangs through July 31 at the 'house, |
| THE ARIZONA REPUBLIC Coffeehouse puts performers first Cheryl Evans Apr. 17, 2004 12:00 AM Lisa McKay grew tired of performing and working in coffeehouses where music was an afterthought, so she and her husband took things into their own hands.Ten weeks ago, Lisa and Patrick McKay opened Mama Java's Coffeehouse in east Phoenix, where music, poetry and artwork take center stage.Lisa, 33, a 12-year veteran of "slinging espresso" and performing in coffeehouses with her husband, recalls how "we were just tucked in the corner. People just ended up there after a movie on a Saturday night." She says she especially wants to give folk artists "a night where they have an audience that actually wants to hear them." On Tuesdays, the 40-capacity coffeehouse stages an open-mike night that welcomes musicians, poets and other performers. Thursday nights focus on Americana music, Fridays and Saturdays feature everything from jazz to bluegrass to "unplugged" sets. The McKays have teamed with Stu Baker, host of the rootsy Jukebox Cantina on Globe's KRXS-FM (97.3), and Rustic Records' Andy Dannerbeck to plan "The Americana Cafe," a series running Thursdays from April 29 through May 20."The first three sessions are an open call," Lisa says, although acts must sign up in advance. "There are 30 slots over the three nights, 15 minutes each." Audience members, which may include music-industry reps, will discuss the performances and pick three artists to play on the fourth week. That show will be recorded for broadcast on Jukebox Cantina.The coffeehouse, which serves a light breakfast and baked goods but no alcohol, also will host occasional concerts by national artists, such as Tuesday's appearance by country-folk singer Stacey Earl. |
