By all accounts, the debut open mic event of Zelda's Inferno at 2640 St. Paul Street (St. Johns Church) was a success. Although I arrived late, missing such notable poets as Hiram Larew and Robin Gunkel, I managed to catch approximately two-thirds of the event, which featured some 20-plus artists reading both poetry and prose works, and a scattering of singer/songwriters mixed in between.

I'm sure that both Hiram and Robin's performances were top notch, but since I missed them (and a few others - my apologies to all), I can only focus on those that came after. Two of the best poetic performances were perpetrated by Zelda's Inferno members Gedalya Chin, who rattled off a faux-patriotic piece about how to swallow American nationalism and be thankful for it, and Karla Mancero, who took on the guise of street evangelist. (Full disclosure admits that Karla is also my girlfriend).

Joe Crespo graced us with a several intelligent prose pieces, and another writer (sorry I don't know your name skinny dude with glasses) read a story that circled around itself in a surreal, almost dream-like, multiple-lives-lived fashion that reminded me a bit of Haruki Murakami.

Among the musicians were Tom Swiss (also of Zelda's Inferno infamy) and a girl (again, that name thing) who both sang/played great folky acoustic guitar singer/songwriter pieces. There were of course other musicians in attendance, but I managed to miss their sets as well.

Props definitely go to Suzy, who organized and hosted the evening, both for hooking up the space and taking the time to put together another great Baltimore poetry event.

All in all, it was quite the night. The energy was high and the acoustic in the Church space were excellent. Although some performers stuck to the usual stand up behind microphone, the amplification really wasn't necessary in the booming cathedral-esque space.

I'm looking forward to the next last Tuesday (of the month) Open Mic - I promise to get there on time! Hopefully the momentum carries, and others in the community can start to attend.