Jam in the Java - Local Bands Bring Electric Beats to UAF Campus
by Nora McIntyre
Arctic Java, the familiar spot for coffee on UAF’s campus cannot be described as quiet on any given day. It is a place where students and faculty pass through to get their caffeine fix or gather in clusters to talk over assignments before class, where the soft hum of conversation blends with the hiss of steaming milk and grinding of espresso beans. On the evening of September 16th, however, bass lines, drum beats, and even the waves of a synth could be heard emanating from the building, drawing in curious passersby of all kinds.
This was Jam in the Java, where three of Alaska’s finest emerging bands gathered to showcase indie music and foster community.
An audience of all ages braved the somewhat chilly night, decked out in indie fashions, to gather and to enjoy some good tunes. Many sipped coffee in comfortable chairs, enjoying the ambience, while some brave souls took to the dance floor. As the night wore on and the energy ramped up more people streamed in, and diners in the Wood Center leaned over the railing and stopped in the stairway to catch the show.
First on the lineup was Heart Machine, a self described indie-folk rock group that boasts a robust, soulful sound and an arresting stage presence. One of the performers reported having met fellow band members at ski practice (which seems fitting), and first jamming together at a local open mic night. As of now, Heart Machine is not yet on Spotify, but tells fans to look out for new music to stream coming soon!
Next up was Casey Smith Project, who changed the mood with more dreamy and ethereal beats. The band mixed an upbeat indie groove with lo-fi vibes and the distinctive sounds of a synth. For those interested in groovy experimental tunes, Casey Smith Project is streamable on Spotify, and they’ve even put out a new single, Red Carpet.
To close up the show we heard from Sun Dog, a hard-glam-psych-rock power trio whose strong, unique vocals and dazzling instrumentals got the crowd moving. Their singular sound and onstage chemistry will stick in your mind, so stream them on Spotify and look out for more upcoming live performances!
After jamming in Arctic Java, all three bands headed over to the Pub to play a lively 21+ show rife with high energy hair flipping, near moshing, and keytar on the dance floor. Sun Dog closed out a long and revelrous night with a shout out to the Pub and Arctic Java for sponsoring live music. The enthusiastic audience shouted right back, speaking for us all, and showing our appreciation for all three talented groups.