Six Feet Under rises rockin'

By Kate Blofson

On certain Thursday nights, rather than crowding into Naples for the conventional beer-and-jukebox scene, a motley group of artists and audience members converge in the Calhoun Cabaret--a cozy performance space in the basement of Calhoun College--for a night of music and dancing that doesn't end in greasy pizza and puke-stained shoes and won't put a dent in your finances.

Six Feet Under, organized last year by Adam Swire, CC '97, provides an opportunity for a melange of Yale musicians, dancers, and poets to perform in a low-key venue for an enthusiastic audience. By 10:30, the Cabaret and Buttery are packed, with core groupies in front and millers in the back straining to see the action.

Headed last semester by Noah Enelow, CC '99, Meredith Die, CC '99, and Darby Saxbe, TC '99, Six Feet Under strives to bring Yale's broad spectrum of student talent together under one roof. "We're not trying to cater to a certain scene or a certain crowd," Enelow noted. "We're trying to establish a universal thing, to create a place as inclusive as possible."

Acts range from dance troupes to klezmer bands to good old rock `n' roll. "Getting shows is tough for bands," Enelow said. "Six Feet Under is basically out to create a scene. People can go and play, get some recognition--it's a nice space where you can hear campus bands for free."

Another crucial addition to Six Feet Under is the participation of Yale's radio station, WYBC 94.3 FM. The Cabaret does have a sound system, but it is makeshift at best, and WYBC provides the essential, good-quality PA and mixer required for buzz-free acoustics.

The fun doesn't stop there, kids; Six Feet Under has more plans in the works. Their hopes include recording future shows to air on WYBC and putting out a "Best of Six Feet Under" compilation tape in order to make some extra cash. Enelow and Saxbe are also hoping to see Six Feet Under broadcasted on your local cable station. Negotiations are currently underway.

Of course, assistance is always welcome. If you've ever dreamed of setting up light and sound equipment, finagling money from deans and masters, booking bands or performing on your own, keep your eyes peeled for an organizational meeting in the fall.

Back to the Freshman Issue...