Since January 17th, 1991 young people have found the small rundown dirty Cobalt Café in San Fernando Valley a perfect place for live performances, meeting new people, and hanging out with friends.

The Cobalt Café has a variety of different performances during the week such as poetry sessions, open readings, and of course live bands. The venue offers many conveniences such as a concession stand, merchandise tables, and many sit down areas with lived in couches and chairs.

Many attendees find themselves relaxing on couches and kicking back as if they were at home.

“I walk in and I feel like I walked into my downstairs basement,” said patron Paddy McGowen, “But I enjoy it because it is a comfortable atmosphere because of that.”

Several mainstream bands such as Linkin Park, Incubus, AFI, Less than Jake, Jimmy Eat World, Save Ferris, Eve 6, Yellowcard, and Hoobastank have performed at the Cobalt in the early to mid 90’s.

Founded by Dave Politi on January 17th, 1991, the club was designed after the popular San Francisco coffee shops and was one of the first coffee shops to emerge in the San Fernando Valley.

Today the small venue is mainly known for its easy access for local bands and first time performers to get a gig. Bands can get a time slot from a list of available dates and are not charged to play.

“It’s a great venue that gives the artists ability to express themselves in a safe environment,” said three-year worker Robert Russo.

A new local Simi Valley indie band called Enemy and the Avenger has secured their spot for November 6.

“I like how the Cobalt gives opportunities to any band around because it lets different types of music play”, said bassist John Beard

Tickets range from $7-10 depending on the number of bands playing.

The Cobalt Café is located on 22047 Sherman Way in

Canoga Park right off of Topanga Canyon. For more information regarding the Cobalt go to the website www,cobaltcafe.com.