When I was asked to check out a new monthly speakeasy at Crane's Hollywood Tavern on North El Centre Avenue, I envisioned dark rooms where male punters in hats and sharp suits, snatched bourbon by candlelight with their female companions, kitted out in knee-length figure hugging dresses. When I arrived the bar was dark but it was also empty. I followed the sound of mesmerizing accordion, singing the unmistakable charm of eastern European folk music at the back of the bar and outside. Here's where the party was. Two young guys on accordion and horn played like their lives depended on it while a few dozen people watched and admired. This was Friday night at the Honey Bee Lounge; a monthly event celebrating old time jazz from the 20's, 30's and 40's, now in its third outing. The outdoors has seating plus an impressive bar which serves $1 8oz glasses of beer from 5-8pm. Live music starts around 7pm and musicians perform in busking style.

I met Kimberly Dullaghan, the brainchild of this event. Kim has experience in managing bands back east and in Los Angeles. She partnered with Darren Crane, the owner, to bring a little prohibition fun into the mix, encouraging punters to dress up in the era. "I love throwing a party," she says. Kim's emphasis is on the music and hopes to invite the best old time musicians to her party.
I sipped my cold beer under the moonlight and listened to the band, realizing this was a one-time experience. The two young guys are two brothers from Tennessee, The Petrojvic Blasting Co. Joshan and Justin Petrojvic play off the cuff Albanian folk music. Tonight they were joined by French violinist, Fabrice Martinez of Fishtank Ensemble. Neither had played with one another before. It was that kind of night.

The Honeybee Lounge
Crane's Hollywood Tavern
1611 North El Centro Ave
LA, Ca 90028
Between Vine and Gower, Hollywood Blvd. and Sunset http://myspace.com/thehoneybeelounge

Next night: Friday, July 18th. 5pm-all night. Performers start around 7pm.
5-8pm $1 dollar glasses of beer.

http://www.albaniamania.com/
http://www.fishtankensemble.com/