The Back Fence

Without much of a history, the Back Fence does its best to stay true to the vintage tradition of the village, despite not being as well frequented as its more established neighbors. The interior, hinting slightly at a Western theme, does look out of place but is not without its charm. The Back Fence is definitely much more informal and laid back then other village night spots, sometimes resembling a bar scene more than that of the somewhat classier ambiance found at the more tourist oriented places like Café Wha? and the Bitter End. An immediate indication of the relaxed attitude, are the peanut shells that cover the floor.

It is custom at the Back Fence to take long sips of Honey Brown Ale from your very generously sized mug, while dipping your hand into the basket of peanuts at your table, and throwing their shells on the floor. Strange at first, this simple act is actually more liberating then one could ever imagine. The drink menu, fitting its surroundings, is limited but enough to cover most tastes. However, a note to the more rebellious of the Stern contingent, "lowcal" non-alcoholic strawberry daiquiri with no ice and one of those cute little umbrellas was not an option.

A negative of this urban saloon is that its mood, always the most crucial ingredient in any establishment of this sort, is completely at the mercy of the visiting band. My last visit was a perfect example of this phenomenon. The Back Fence hosts two back-to-back shows every night of the week featuring such notable, local talent as "The Wallbangers" and "Spare Parts" who frequent most village clubs. The first show featured the unknown, three-man blues-rock band, "Indian Summer," followed by the second set featuring Back Fence regulars, Bob and Norm, a two man acoustical jam. The first set, aside from a cover of the Hendrix classic "The Wind Cries Mary," left much to be desired. Within ten minutes the mood hit a low point and one couldn't help but notice things like the poor acoustics, the noise making it impossible to maintain any conversation, and a general lack of warmth and ambiance. As I was getting ready to ask for my check, the second set began.

The transformation was no less then 180 degrees. After a successful attempt to interact with the crowd, something "Indian Summer" couldn't do, Bob and Norm went right into a ten minute Beatles montage, followed by two excellent renditions Zeppelin songs, and the Rolling Stones ballad, "Angie." This steady stream of soulful, mellow, K rock pumped new life into the crowd and made the rest of the night at the Back Fence something I would definitely recommend.

Bottom line: call first to see whose playing, ask about Bob and Norm, and hope you get lucky. Usually no or low cover and drink minimum.

THE BACK FENCE

155 BLEEKER ST. (CORNER THOMPSON)

A,C,E,B,D,F,Q trains to W.4th St.

For info and reservations. 475-9221