News broke Friday via Twitter and Tumblr that hallowed DIY space Subterranean A would be hosting its last show this coming Saturday (June 23rd) with Family Portrait, James Adomian, DJ Sami Y and BBQ provided by local man-about-town Pat Walsh. Although the space has significantly decreased the amount of shows being put on these past six months, DC cannot help but feel sadness in the void created by Subterranean A’s shuttering.
From what I can gather the space is ending on positive terms, most likely the tenants going forward towards bigger and better endeavors. Still, Subterranean A has been a invaluable addition, providing DC with some of the most pioneering indie music and comedy, many who might not of been able to find a concert spot elsewhere. Notable past shows include Julian Lynch (January 2011), Lower Dens (February 2011), Moss of Aura (October 2011), and Pictureplane (July 2011).
It seems fitting that Family Portrait plays out Subterranean A, as the band and their label Underwater Peoples have had a tie with the DIY basement space since its creation back in March 2010 and have played numerous shows there, in one formation or another.
This event, alongside the January closing of Gold Leaf, leaves one wondering: where will the DC DIY scene head next? Luckily, spaces like Paperhaus and The Dollhouse still exist alongside St. Stephens and Comet Ping Pong, but the unavoidable hip air of Subterranean A’s sunken brick walls will be deeply missed. If in the area Saturday be sure to stop by and raise a can or flask to the closing of small, but memorable era in the DC music scene.
Subterranean A's last show occurs June 23rd starting at 6:30pm
