Oto Concentratio by Z360
Sackcloth. Yes the infamous sackcloth Oto backdrop is still there, although it appeared to be a foot shorter last week. I have the feeling that if it ever disappears, that will be the end. There is now a fancy projection screen rolled up above it, which seems to work well. It works better than the new aircon, which was just too noisy, maybe they have managed to silence it, or they probably never switch it on any more during gigs. In contrast the actual sound at Oto is nearly always spot on, you think you are at an acoustic gig, yet the PA is gently amplifying it. Many thanks to Billy I believe, the only problems seem to occur with performers and their laptops. At least some microphone stands have migrated to the ceiling, and I presume they record everything, so there should be an amazing archive somewhere. Entry is always so casual and relaxed, no tickets, you just give your name. Occasionally there is a long queue outside due to a soundcheck overrun, and always arrive early if you want a seat. Over at the bar we can now order pints (used to be a schooner), and the Kernel Pale Ale is excellent, but there is no more real Stout. However the organic red wine is appalling, comes out of a box into a clumsy decanter and no-one drinks it. I am also concerned that there appear to be even fewer chairs and tables.
The bookcase has expanded and is excellently curated, but I do worry that some of the merchandise is impinging on the performance space. Meanwhile the toilets are regularly out of order and even more chaotic since the Ladies became LBGT+. All part of the fun I guess, but I was there one night when the front door shutter had jammed and I had to leave via the fire exit. There is rarely any dancing, not that kind of crowd and often too busy, but I have managed it on occasion. As usual there are a few bikes parked inside the venue, belonging to staff I presume, plus random piles of stuff which could accommodate punters. Obviously I would appreciate a bike parking space, but go on the train, since I have had too many bikes stolen in Dalston. Is there a Green Room for performers? I don't know, they still come out from beside the bar and have to navigate through the punters, sometimes getting lost in the dark. That is all good in my book, just like The Keystone in Oakland back in '76.
This final selection of photos features several Oto regulars including some truly classic players including Shabaka Hutchings, David Murray, Trevor Watts, BJ Cole, Egberto Gismonti and Jamaaladeen Tacuma. Of course The Necks are featured again, as well as some important composers like Gavin Bryars, Andrew Poppy and Simon Fisher Turner. A pleasure to experience them in such an intimate and flexible space. One of the best concerts, although a poor photo, was the Otomo Yoshihide Big Band, inspiring me to write a big band blog. I hear there are changes afoot at Cafe Oto and they are looking for a new Production Manager. Good luck, that is some job! Despite the carping above Cafe Oto has been my favourite place in the world for the last fifteen years. Ad vitam aeternam.