The Old Oak Coffeehouse hosts rotating musicians, artists and 'house band' block parties

Jul. 30—In the '60s and '70s, coffeehouses aimed to provide patrons with a rotating selection of sets by singer-songwriters — not just a variety of caffeinated drinks.

In the tradition set forth by the Beat Generation, The Old Oak Coffee House — at 136 2nd Ave. Unit B, Niwot — continues to be a platform for musicians and artists looking to perform, connect and inspire.

"The initial concept included music, art and pottery," said Michael Tomich, who opened The Old Oak with his wife Patty Machen in July 2017. "Patty (Machen) has a personal connection to the pottery guild and so we have had a mug installation up for many months now because it sells so well and so many potters are involved. We also have new artists every month displaying their beautiful paintings and photographs."

After a lengthy career as an elementary teacher at schools throughout Boulder County, including Foothill Elementary from 1991-2002, Whittier Elementary from 2002-2008 and Creekside Elementary from 2008-2017, Tomich was inspired to cultivate a place where folks could gather, relax and recharge.

"We feel lucky to have all the interest from all the musicians who walk through our doors," Tomich said. "We are small and cannot pay them much, but often they say they just love playing at The Old Oak."

So, in addition to the sound of oat milk being steamed and espresso drizzling into demitasse cups, it isn't unlikely to hear passionate guitar strums and echo of percussion.

From hosting a Songwriters in the Round series before the pandemic to closing off the streets to host socially distanced crowds at outdoor concerts, The Old Oak continues to provide an ample amount of live entertainment.

"After recording CDs and playing music and singing with my fourth and fifth graders for many years, I thought it would be neat to start playing music for myself, as a real adult, as part of our coffeehouse concept," said Tomich, who sings and plays piano and a bit of guitar.

The House Blend Band is comprised of owner Tomich; his vocalist daughter Paris Tomich; his wife Patty Machen, who played viola for the Boulder Philharmonic Orchestra; bassist Andrew Bunin; drummer John Lawrence' guitarist Derek Olson and horn player Eric Ottem.

"Our band is about the most eclectic group of people to ever assemble in the name of music," Tomich said. "There is a great deal of eye-rolling when new songs are brought to the group. But, I believe that this is actually our strength. Many audience members have commented on the set lists and enjoy all the familiar songs."

The House Blend Band plays a mix of tunes from the 1960s-1990s. One minute, fans could be reveling in tracks by Carole King and the next jamming to Elton John. Even hits from The Eagles have been added.

The band has played to folks outside — within the heart of Niwot's charming downtown — three times so far.

"As a response to COVID — and what I considered people's feelings of isolation and need for community — I approached the president of the Niwot Business Association with the concept of getting a Boulder County Special Events license, closing down 2nd Avenue, and having street concerts with our band," Tomich said.

The next House Blend Band's shows — and corresponding block parties — are scheduled from 6-9 p.m. Aug. 7 and from 4-7 p.m. Sept. 25. There is no cover charge.

The Aug. 7 performance will include a multigenerational song with Tomich's 7-year-old granddaughter, Evelyn Curry, stepping in.

"It's a huge undertaking and — by the end of those nights — I'm so exhausted, but the response has been overwhelmingly positive," Tomich said. "The community has been supportive, as well as the other businesses on the block."

The Old Oak's happy hour, from 3-5 p.m, that provides discounted wine, beer and food items has become a favorite among locals.

"Apparently, we were the first Boulder County business to get a permanent alcohol license to provide beer and wine on county property on a regular basis — which is the bump-out patio on 2nd Avenue" Tomich said. "The patio was instrumental during the pandemic because it allowed people to sit, have a glass of wine and listen to music in a safe way."

In addition to offering up pastries and a stellar soundtrack, Tomich and his team serve up cuisine visitors wouldn't likely expect from a place known for latte art.

"I told Patty that we were going to sell spaghetti no matter what," Tomich said. "It seems even more ridiculous now than when we started, but after four years we are still selling spaghetti on Saturday nights."

The authentic recipe dates back to one Tomich's grandmother used to cook in her kitchen. The pasta and meat balls are priced at $10.25.

"I love the listening space they create at Old Oak Coffeehouse, so we are really looking forward to performing this Saturday," said Teresa Storch, who will play with her husband Peter Lacis starting at 5 p.m. "I call our music soulful-Americana — meaningful lyrics from the folk/roots world, with blues and rock grooves."

Years ago, Storch attended The Colorado School of Mines in Golden. The endless selection of concerts in the state inspired her to want to take the stage.

"I became addicted to live music and especially Red Rocks," Storch said. "I saw so many shows where I just ached to do what those on the stage were doing, yet felt it was a ridiculous thought. However, seeing Lisa Loeb performing solo — opening for Lyle Lovett — I thought 'I could do that. I think I'm supposed to do that.' It was a very weird realization, as I was in my junior year of getting a degree in engineering physics."

With so many live shows canceled last year, Storch was able to focus on crafting new material.

"2020 was a year that provided lots of songwriting-fodder," Storch said. "The down-time we all experienced allowed Peter and I to write and demo new songs in preparation for the current album we are recording. It was a wonderful, fun process to really put the time into molding the songs before heading into the studio."

Donations are encouraged at Saturday's show.

The Old Oak continues to evolve its menu, most recently adding a vegan sweet potato panini designed by Callum Wintergerst, the assistant manager.

"I think what sets us apart from other shops is all of the different things we're doing," said Hannah Carlson, manager of The Old Oak. "We're so much more than just a coffee shop. We're a bakery, a music venue, an art gallery, a restaurant and so much more"

One of Carlson's goals for the space is to expand the bakery selection and perhaps even be a purveyor of baked goods for other area establishments.

"I would love to see us be able to offer more and more and really start to be known for more than just our coffee, but a place to come pick up cakes for parties or a dozen treats for an event," Carlson said. "When I started baking for the shop, it started with a tray of muffins and a tray of muffins became muffins and biscotti. Then we added scones and cookies and now we have everything that we offer today."

Other upcoming music events include Denny Driscoll on Aug. 14, Sheldon, Kathleen & Friends on Aug. 21 and Dean Himes Aug. 28.

"Michael, Patty, the whole staff and myself all bring something unique to the table to make this place so special," Carlson said. "We've really created a sense of community and a place that feels like home to a lot of people. I can't wait to see what else we can come up with and what The Old Oak Coffeeshop can become."