Reading, PA-
Chris Kratz, Talent Buyer/In House Promoter for The Brass Lantern in Reading, PA announced on a local messsage board this weekend that he’s parting ways after years of booking many of the regions up-and-coming jambands, bluegrass and dance-tronica acts.
Kratz cited a long-running battle with the Pennsylvania LCB as the tipping point in his decision to leave.
“The Brass was closed down by the Pennsylvania LCB from 12/8-12/14 due to compliance issues with John, the owner.
I had no (serious) issue with that. I knew it was probably coming being that the LCB has raided the Brass Lantern (with about 10-15 state cops, parole/probation officers, & such) once a month, carding everyone.” Said Kratz.
Kratz also noted that, although he’s leaving the Brass, he’s not going far from his Reading live-music roots: “I have created my own production/promotion company, aptly called PlusVibes Productions (http://www.plusvibes.com – currently under construction). My company’s primary goal is to make sure the network of artists, friends, family, & associates in the live music scene that I have met & worked with in the past years, continue to have a great time in Reading, PA, but most of all continue to be exposed fantastic music.”
Over the five years Chris had hosted local notables such as Brothers Past, Lotus, Quagmire Swim Team and Future Rock.
Kratz’s full statement can be read here.
The real question remains unanswered…
Was the PLCB justified in raiding the Brass? Were they finding underage people in the bar? If so, shame on the Brass! They brought their problems upon themselves. If not, why is the PLCB trying to pick a fight with this bar in particular?
Since early 2007, since an overwhelming amount of college starting coming there (not so much anymore), The Brass became labeled a “nuisance bar”. Add a couple complaints (noise, arrests/incidents near the bar [kids walking causing trouble], etc) and they start climbing down yer throat. Gradually after our identifying tag, the Brass started getting harassed by the health department & the LCB with inspections & raids. In the 4 years prior to that we NEVER saw inspections or had any problems with either organization. Anywho, the Brass passed ALL but 1 inspection/raid. We got caught 1 time from a band bringing in an underager (not the Brass’ fault, came in back door) and that was early 2008. From then on we were put on the nuisance list & once a month, they raided bars/clubs on that list, looking for underagers & anyone on probation or parole. So it’s not just the Brass Lantern. There is about 10 bars/clubs on that list.
Thanks for the article, Jersey. Hope we can both keep the music flowing in Pensnylvania.
Stay postive y’all )))+(((
Chris @ PlusVibes
It’s really a shame because the Brass was a cool place to see a show. Either way, I know Chris and I am sure he will be bringing more good music to the Reading, PA scene.
[...] Chris Kratz, Talent Buyer/In House Promoter for The Brass Lanternin Reading, PA announced on a local message board this weekend that he’s parting ways after years of booking many of the regions up-and-coming jambands, bluegrass and dance-tronica acts… Read entire article [...]