Side Projects Are The Magic Of Live Music: Alana Rocklin & David Phipps at Ophelia’s Electric Soapbox

Have you ever seen a musician from one of your favorite popular bands – no matter the genre - play at a small venue or unique place? They may have been by themselves or with other musicians, but regardless, you probably felt the magic?

There is an atmosphere of experimentation and freedom available in such a venue that might not be experienced when the whole band makes magic together at a larger, more popular space or festival. Recently, I had the opportunity to experience Alana Rocklin and David Phipps of STS9 at Ophelia’s Electric Soapbox in Denver for two unforgettable nights in support of their nonprofit, Just Thanks.

To say the experience was special is an understatement. To say it was magical is closer to the truth. From D&B to deep bass-funk and from acoustic piano to psychedelic riffs, none of us were quite sure what to expect next. To loosely quote Rocklin from the stage, “I don’t know what is going to happen here tonight.” This summed up the extent of the improvisation and exploration embodied by both musicians, individually and together in collaborative moments!

There may have been a few random clients in the venue who came for a meal and a drink, but it was obvious that most of the attendees were there for the same reason I was… they knew what they were signing up for. The energy was undeniable! Both Rocklin and Phipps chatted openly with the small, dedicated crowd on the dance floor and smiled with the satisfaction of true connection.

Everywhere one looks at Alder Creek, one finds giants. Photo by Max Forster. Photo from Alder Creek Website

They talked about STS9’s fan dedication to saving a plot of old-growth sequoias in Alder Creek. The Alder Creek forest is 580 acres and the largest stand of old-growth sequoias in private ownership. It is home to what is believed to be the 5th largest tree in the world - Stagg Tree - which is over 25 feet wide and 250 feet tall. The forest is currently managed by the Save the Redwoods League’s Forever Forest Campaign with the intent to transfer the property to the U.S. Forest Service for inclusion in the Giant Sequoia National Monument. Ophelia’s was the perfect place to gather like-minded folks for such an important cause.

The venue itself is enchanting with paintings, signboards, and photographs of women of every shape and size. The hallways are bedazzled with burlesque artwork while rulers and yardsticks from times past line the bathroom stalls and walls. One feels comfortable in this oasis regardless of past or present insecurities or challenges. Sensuality permeates the entire establishment originally opened in 1889. According to the Epicure and Culture website, “Ophelia’s Electric Soapbox…pays homage to the building’s history as a former cathouse, peep show space, and Literotica shop, as well as Ophelia, its muse and master of the boudoir.”

Justin Cucci, Ophelia’s owner quoted on USA Today travel website, “The design aesthetic for Ophelia’s has been in the making for a few years, the interior is inspired by vintage finds I’ve collected over time. When I’m looking for something specific, it often takes me down a rabbit hole where I find things I wasn’t even looking for."

A bit of a rabbit hole is certainly what I found at Ophelia’s! Eclectic, stimulating, and avant-garde - it is an enticing gastro and aural-brothel like I’ve rarely experienced from New York to St. Louis, and from Chicago to Atlanta! The sound system is impeccable for the size and unique design of the space, yet sufficiently deep to entice all the senses to attention.

The combination of the unique small venue, the dedicated fans, and the freedom of innovation created an enchanting atmosphere. Rocklin and Phipps solo sets and collaborative performances in such a special venue will certainly be remembered by all who were there.

Time and time again, these side projects by incredibly talented musicians have proven to be special and memorable. The musicians themselves appear to really enjoy the freedom to let go and shine in their individual space while the fans appreciate the intimacy of being up close and personal.

Next time a musician from one of your favorite bands announces a solo or special project performance, take a chance and attend. You might find a deeper appreciation for the individual artistry that each musician brings to create the magic of the band experience. Or maybe you have a special performance you’d like to share with us? Take some time and drop your favorite memory in the comment section below.