photo: Diane Dube
DJ Odious feels like a drop of water that splashed down upon Tucson last fall.
Odious, who formerly spun his albums in the wetter climes of Cape Cod and Plymouth, MA, explains, “I brought something that seemed needed and it wanted me to express it, feed it, and now it’s growing…like growing a garden.” That something has started with his open-mic shows, which he hosts every Tuesday and Wednesday night.
Tuesday’s shows take place at Auld Dubliner on Euclid and University. Running from 9pm-close, it has a comedy focus drawing in the likes of Bridgitte Thum and John Tuller, two of Tucson’s most talented comics. The comedy, interspersed with music and poetry, is raw and risqué. While it can offend, it tends to have the audience roaring with laughter and stomping their feet.
Wednesday nights take place at Sky Bar on 4th Avenue, from 7-close (sign up at 6pm), and is a more serious affair. The main course is generally music, with an aperitif of poetry or comedy sprinkled in throughout the night. While local regulars can be found playing covers of Tom Petty, Bonnie Raitt & Led Zeppelin, in contrast - the stage is often graced with wonderful singer/songwriters including one of Tucson’s favorite yearly visitors, Maya Caballero, turning out her blend of wispy vocals and often provocative lyrics.
Both shows will continue to run weekly throughout the summer along with a monthly showcase featuring comics and musicians, titled Soft Rock, Hard Comedy, which also takes place at Sky Bar. You can find DJ Odious on Facebook for more information on all of his events. Or, just show up to one of the venues!
