Since its inception, the City of Brotherly Love has been known for its independence. Keeping the spirit alive, Philly’s latest DIY art space The Ox is circulating buzz amongst show goers and bands alike. Co-founder Daniel Hughes was nice enough to take a little time and spill some deets about the venue, the Philly scene, and of course, roast beef.
The Deli: How did The Ox start? Who runs it?
Daniel Hughes: Living in a warehouse was always something I’d wanted to do, but wasn’t realistic because of school obligations. After I graduated, I was approached by my friend Brendan about the idea of making it a reality. A couple of us got together and assembled a rag tag group of individuals who were willing to give it a shot. I see this as my chance to give back to a scene that did so much for me. We are attempting to run the space democratically which can be a huge headache. Bernie and myself book most of the shows, but everyone is involved and has the ability to do what they want.
TD: Aside from manning The Ox, what else are you into? Day jobs, involvement in the art/music scene, etc.?
DH: 4 bands (Shitty Knees, The Armchairs, Norwegian Arms and Kim Jong Bill), artists, printmakers, filmmakers, a sound guy, an art teacher, a writer, a hairdresser, a political scientist, a dude in Russia, a dog and a cat.
TD: What are your highlights/fave moments at The Ox?
DH: Currently, building an igloo on the roof. We just hosted an event our friends have every year called “Mightyfest”. Lots of delicious food and games (feats of strength). We had a pretty wild Halloween party featuring all cover bands. Our friend Dom’s band Dragonzord played In The Aeroplane Over The Sea from start to finish. People were REALLY into it. But I’d have to say my absolute favorite moment had to be our New Years Eve party/show. Our good friend from high school, Tuan Le, was in town from LA and documented it for us. Aside from having around 11 bands playing, all the music during the party was from the last ten years and Dragonzord played a cover set of hits from the decade at midnight (from the Dirty Projectors to Miley Cyrus).
TD: What are some of the pros and cons of running a DIY venue?
DH: Pros: Hosting fun things, meeting cool people, introducing cool people to other cool people, learning life skills (like compromising), space/freedom. Cons: Cleaning up, having to work when your friends are having fun, putting up with bands/events you don’t personally enjoy, long/painful but often necessary deliberation in email and in person, and occasionally having to deal with people who disrespect the space.
TD: Where did you grow up? Did you go to local shows? If so, what shows or venues were most memorable?
DH: All over PA, NJ, Chicago, Wisconsin. Brendan and I lived in the same town, but only recently met within the last year. He was pretty active in the Lansdale scene and booking shows and we knew a lot of the same people, so I wouldn’t be surprised if our paths crossed and we never even realized it. My friend’s were in bands in high school so I would go out and support them when they had a gig. My absolute favorite "local" show was seeing Good Clean Fun play at the Trappe YMCA after “Hellfest” got cancelled. Greg and I used to take the R5 in to the city when we were in high school to see R5 shows (go figure). I used to and still do love seeing shows at the First Unitarian Church. My first one was seeing Ted Leo (with Greg). That was definitely memorable for me.
TD: What are some upcoming events at The Ox that you’re excited about/looking forward to?
DH: We’ve got some shows coming up that still need to be confirmed, but I’m potentially really excited about those. We’re trying to do more art/non music shows with the New Year. Our next is April second and it should be good. Marvin Gaye birthday party to follow. I’m usually excited/looking forward to all of the shows we have, otherwise why do them? Shameless plug time: March 6–Ape School, The Armchairs (roommates!), Grandchildren, Lonnie Walker, Dinosaur Feathers. March 9–Folklore, Sea of Dogs, Quiet Hooves, Bubbly Mommy Gun. April 1–The Pharmacy, Dangerous Ponies, The Spooks, Kingdome, Bellys and April 14–1994!, Grown Ups, Netherfriends.
TD: Finish the following sentence. The Ox is __________.
DH: The Ox is a unique and dynamic space that has many surprises in store for 2010 and beyond.
TD: What is your favorite thing about Philly’s music scene?
DH: It’s diverse and interesting. Lots of good people doing what they love and are willing to help each other out. The fact that places like ours can exist.
TD: Which local artists are you currently into?
DH: Most of my favorite bands right now are ones that have played here. Shameless plug time again. I’ve been really into Dragonzord and Hop Along recently. Dom and Eric Slick have a new project called Lithuania, The Homophones, Chang Chang (best dude ever), Plastic Little, Teeth of Mammals (local enough). The Divine Lorraine, Power Animal, and so on, and so on, and so on.
TD: What do you like to get at the deli?
DH: I’m a Roast Beef man, but nothing beats a good Italian hoagie!