Issue date: 9/12/08 Section: ARTS & LIFE

Media Credit: Genevieve Morrissy Rubber Gloves Rehearsal Studio's "Pharmacy" bar offers one-dollar wells from 9 p.m. to 11 p.m. every night and 32 ounce beers for $2.50. They also play host to bands from all over the country.

Once someone actually takes time to hunt down Rubber Gloves Rehearsal Studio, he or she may be pleasantly surprised.

Eleven years ago, Rubber Gloves was transformed from a rehearsal space into a full-fledged live music venue. Josh Baish, the current owner, had just started bartending at the eclectic bar at the time.

"I saw potential for live music when I came and I talked to the owners," Baish said.

Over a decade ago, when it began hosting shows, there weren't many bars like Rubber Gloves around.

"We wanted there to be another indie venue in town," general manager James Shepard, said.

With "rehearsal studio" still in its title, Gloves did not abandon its roots. The venue contains 11 rehearsal rooms used by over 30 bands, Shepard said.

Some may find that the downside to this underground music venue is that it truly personifies "underground" in particular.

"We're literally off the beaten path," bartender Chris Moler said. "People never just stumble in here; they usually come here for a show first then come back."

Once someone discovers Rubber Gloves, there are a wide variety of activities that he or she can partake in there.

There is a small room to the right comprised of several 20-year-old arcade games that Baish brags on.

Straight ahead is the bar area, embellished with old photos, band posters and pictures of indigenous animals.

The defining decorative piece is the jar plastered to the wooden column behind the counter. Inside is a piece of the owner's ear that was bitten off at the venue when his favorite band, Boris, came to perform, Shepard said.

Although it usually hosts local shows, Rubber Gloves is a venue that welcomes all types of music.

Psychology senior Ian Bangs has performed on the venue's stage numerous times and has also been a disc jockey.

"Gloves has always been real supportive of me and my music," he said.

Music is Rubber Gloves' main focus.

"I'd like to think it's a place for people who really, genuinely enjoy music," Baish said.

Students looking for new and different music should check out Rubber Gloves.

But they should beware and hold onto their ears.

At 411 E. Sycamore St., Rubber Gloves Rehearsal Studios is open 5 p.m. to midnight Sundays noon to 2 a.m. Mondays and 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays.

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