http://www.nytimes.com/slideshow/2010/09/05/travel/09052010-surfacing.html
Hudson, N.Y.: Where Bands Feel at Home
By CARRIE NIEMAN CULPEPPER
About a decade ago transplanted Manhattanites began reviving the late-18th-century whaling town of Hudson, N.Y., two hours north of New York City, along the Hudson River. Initially, proximity, great building stock and cheap rents spurred a healthy antiques district. More recently galleries, bars and vintage shops have opened; along with them a general feeling of bohemianism has emerged. The latest wave to hit, particularly along the main drag of Warren Street, has been music. Already home to established musicians like the neo-soul singer and musician Meshell Ndegeocello, the D.J. Tedd Patterson, and the bassist Melissa Auf der Maur, formerly of the band Hole — as well as a recording studio housed in an 1869 church — Hudson now boasts a robust grassroots music scene. “It’s just like a smaller version of Brooklyn to me,” said Ms. Ndegeocello, a two-year resident who was attracted by the convenience and the progressive community.
At left, the Spotty Dog Books & Ale.
THE SPOTTY DOG BOOKS & ALE
440 Warren Street
(518) 671-6006
thespottydog.com
Local bands play the small stage at this quirky former firehouse. Today it’s part coffee shop and part bar, filled with books and art supplies for sale. Locals say it’s the place to catch emerging talent.
MUSICA
17 North Fourth Street
(518) 828-1045
goodmusica.com
Hudson has “been a real magnet in the last couple of years,” said Rob Caldwell, who relocated his music store, which sells rare and vintage instruments and sheet music, from nearby Chatham two years ago. He’s also hosted concerts on the shop’s front porch, and even upstairs in his apartment.
(P.M.)
119 Warren Street
(518) 828-2833
pmwinebar.com
At this two-year-old wine bar, the house piano is stocked with sheet music of show tunes and standards, and patrons are encouraged to get up and play.
THE CANNONBALL FACTORY
359-361 Columbia Street
No phone
cannonballfactory.com
Audiences, like this one, at this Civil War-era factory enjoy concerts, cabaret and anything else organizers dream up for the five- story space. “Right now it’s a little bit underground and as a result it’s kind of an amazing vibe,” said Chris Gilbert, the owner. Coming shows include the local drag cabaret singer Musty Chiffon and local reggae band Mother Fletcher.
Credit: Nathaniel Brooks For The New York Times