March 31, 2005


San Jose Skate hosts local rock groups

Former Aloha Roller Rink provides fun, safe venue for musicians

By Justin Petersen
Staff Writer

Historic roller skate Mecca San Jose Skate hopes live music will spark tumbling sales endured since the late 1970s infatuation with roller skating curbed.

San Jose Skate offeres a setting that provides safety via alcohol-free entertainment, where young people may congregate and socialize without the threat of gangs or unmonitored behavior.

The once bustling rink—located on Blossom Hill road, just north of Oak Grove High School—opened its doors to independent rock acts beginning June 19 last year. They’ve hosted up to 300 spectators at a time since, mostly high school kids, who travel from as far as Union City to observe bourgeoning talent spawned locally.

“I think it’s a great venue,” said Karen Donnelly, president of Tektom Booking, a South San Jose based promotions agency which represents nationally acclaimed bands such as “emaneht” in addition to cult crushes, namely “Delta Activity.” “Most places only allow the 21 and over crowds. It’s a good opportunity for bands to play for a younger audience which they may like to target.”

Owner Mike Von Leeuwen applies strict protocol in selecting bands. There is no cussing, no substance abuse, and the singer must be above average, according to San Jose Skate booking contact Tony Jensen. Bands are encouraged to submit demo tapes to Jensen, who works after 6p.m. throughout the week.

According to Donnelly, it is rare in this era to find a setting that offers safety, via alcohol-free entertainment, where young people may congregate and socialize without the threat of gangs or unmonitored behavior.

Donnelly grew up working at the site, formerly known as Aloha Roller Rink. After founding Tektom, she determined that the building was an ideal setting to promote bands locally. She approached von Leeuwen, who agreed. Von Leeuwen then sponsored efforts to build a stage and acquire P.A. components necessary to produce live performances.

Finally Von Leeuwen secured operating permits conducive to city ordinance and the show went on.

Expanding will not be included in long term goals, however. Donnelly birthed a child and consolidated her responsibilities to focus on promoting specific musical acts. SJ Skate promotions have stalled in her absence, and no plans have been made to embark upon a new program. It is what it is, in the eyes of Von Leeuwen.

“Bands were always responsible for drawing crowds on their own accord,” said Donnelly. “And that will continue.”

The first show last year brought in approximately 150 people, thanks to a street team assigned by the bands, and advised by Donnelly, who visited Oak Grove, Santa Teresa and Andrew Hill High Schools to promote the performance.

A show was held March 5, before one-third less attendance. “Killencora” opened for the Leland alum laden bands “Starving Millioneirs” (yes that is the band’s latest spelling) and “Dying Breed.”

The groups each played hour-long sets, but it was “STV” who stood out. In their first appearance at SJ Skate, vocalist Eric Mahel’s raspy-pitched vocals roused the audience of approximately 100.

The group—with a lineup also including David Mun wailing on the drum kit and Joe Reghitto, who provides poignant, driving bass flavor—belted out 12 up-tempo originals, recalling savory influences of reggae, metal and punk rock. They saved special enthusiasm for renditions of “Hopscotch Girl,” “Double Brown,” and “Punishment.”

“The Starving Millioneirs’ singer has a great voice,” said Jensen of Mahel. “Musically speaking they are very solid. They really know how to use their instruments, and they play well together.”

“Dying Breed” was limited without drummer Thayer Koch and recently dismissed bassist Spencer West. They opted for a two-man acoustic jam, arranged around the guitar skills of Jimmy Newell. Newell carried singer Cuyler Meade through several originals as well as an inspiring Eric Clapton cover.

“Dying Breed” became a favored draw at SJ Skate with prior performances.

For more information regarding upcoming shows, please call (408) 226-1155, or visit www.sjskate.com. San Jose Skate
is located at 397 Blossom Hill Road.

The Starving Millioneirs can next be seen at Johnny V’s in San Jose on April 11. Visit www.myspace.com/starvingmillionaires and www.myspce.com/dyingbreed for more information regarding the bands.