Warehouse Studios

by Faith Bennett
Warehouse Studios has long played a large part in the music culture of Jacksonville, Florida. In the earlier days, Warehouse was a recording site for such legends as Molly Hatchet and Lynyrd Skynyrd, but it now serves as the headquarters for locally renowned Skinny Records. On March 3, Warehouse will hold a benefit show sponsored by Burro Bags and Underbelly with 100 percent of the proceeds going toward keeping the historic studio open and active.
Some members of Skinny Records’ current lineup include RICE, Opiate Eyes, Wildlife Society and Katie Grace Helow. RICE and Opiate Eyes have confirmed performances for the benefit show as have songstress Robin Rutenberg and popular DJ Vlad the Inhaler. The event starts at 3 pm, but the bands listed (and more) start playing at 4 pm and there will be catering and beverages to keep attendees satisfied until then.
It is important to mention that the show, for which admission is just $5, will not be the only thing going on. The benefit is being held at the Thief in the Knight art space downtown where art from JU students and other local artists will be displayed, all of which is for sale with the money going to the cause. There will also be a raffle going on sponsored by lovely companies such as Burro Bags, Vino’s Pizza, Peterbrooke Chocolatier and the Pet Bath House.
The attempt to keep the studio up and running is emotionally charged for many involved. One of the the main sponsors, the beloved former Five Points venue Underbelly, only closed around six months ago after having hosted Skinny bands for years. Others involved have developed a fondness for the local label and studio in the tightly knit Jacksonville music scene.
A handful of music videos have even been filmed in the studio, and countless nights have been spent working there by label partners Ryan Turk and Tom Essex who pull triple duty running the label, studio and playing in bands. Warehouse Studios has also provided a place to record bands who may have otherwise remained unknown.
The Benefit for Warehouse is worthwhile from multiple standpoints, and the show is an easy and fun way to support professional recording in Jacksonville. So on March 3rd, if you don’t have anything to do, you should go. And even if you have something to do, find the time between 3 pm and 10:30 pm to stop by, have fun, and support local music.
Thief in the Knight Gallery is on 115 West Adams Street; parking is free.