Club owner supports local talent, books open mic showcase
By Brad Morley
The Manila Express in Tigard has been under new management for sometime now. Owner Pete Louw has proven to be a true fan of local talent and supports the music scene with a sense of class and regard seldom found in clubs.
The club is starting to promote a songwriters showcase on Wednesday night and a good time is had by all. As in most cases, feel free to drop in with your favorite guitar and fit in where you can. To have a substantial time slot, call ahead to the club and schedule a performance time. The man to talk to about music bookings is Dave; he can be reached at the club 503-639-8375.
All open mike nights or open blues jams have a band in the background as an anchor. The talent at this open mike night happens to be the genuine article. Meet Lani Nielcen, a singer and guitarist who just flat has what it takes and then makes it seem effortless. When asked about her musical background, she can't help but bring up stories of a nice childhood in Minnesota, listening to mom's favorite ragtime music. She developed as a musician and has great stories of her first band named Barefoot: Spinal Tap meets Fargo.
A newcomer to Portland, Nielcen is striking with her bag of songs and a very nice Guild guitar. She is able to sing and play with ease, as well as entertain between songs. Anyone looking to add a female singer to their band or form a new band around a singer should look her up.
If you haven't ventured out to the Manila Express, make it a destination on your next Saturday night out. The club is located at 12370 S.W. Main St. in Tigard, right off Highway 99W, just south of the 217 exit. The area has been renovated with plenty of available free parking and other restaurants and shops. The Music on Tap schedule will keep you up to date on the weekend headline acts.