The Old Factory has acquired a grant for music recording equipment in hopes of turning the business’s upstairs room into a music session the business wants to host once every month called “Live at The Old Factory.”
The first show was two weeks ago on Aug. 29 and displayed the musical talent of Josh Davis, an acoustic singer-songwriter from Des Moines, Iowa.
The event was small in attendance but those who went enjoyed the atmosphere in the downtown coffee shop. As a result of the event, Lincoln Morris, a senior at Northwestern, was given the opportunity to interview and record Davis for a podcast that will play through the local public radio station after each event is hosted.
“I would like to see some really quality recordings emerging from what they do,” said Morris. “They have some great equipment and a great set up, and I really think up-and-coming artists can take advantage of that and get some really nice live recordings.”
Employees at The Old Factory feel enthusiastic to host the event.
“‘Live at The Old Factory’ is a sweet way to promote Iowa music,” employee Brad Smith said. “We’re bringing in a crazy variety of indie bands from all over the state. Josh Davis was really cool. And in just the next few months we have The Envy Corps coming and Field Division. You can check both of those bands out online, and definitely should. It’s some great stuff.”
The Old Factory employees are excited about the possibilities the bands could bring to the business and the whole community.
Goals of the event include bringing in diverse and eclectic sounds and to provide a space that is warm, inviting and holistic to attend, regardless if the music is of one’s own personal preference usually. This event is rare in Northwest Iowa because there are not many public studios or places equipped with recording abilities.
“Live at The Old Factory” is unique in that the equipment used is of quality and open for the public. People can be a part of a live musical performance and experience bands firsthand.
The next event hosted will be held on Sept. 26 and feature the vocal talent of Devon Cadwell, a local artist from Orange City. Come to The Old Factory and support its endeavors to bring students quality coffee and equally quality music.
