Since Drkmttr launched in 2015, the venue’s organizers and volunteers have put in heaps of work that goes well beyond its basic brief as an all-ages space. From their lockdown-era pivot to hosting the Nashville Free Store to welcoming in fundraiser events for causes like abortion access and youth arts education and more, they’ve shown up for the Nashville music community time and again — all in an environment where the challenges of running a small venue have only increased.
In the spring, Drkmttr organizers launched a successful crowdfunding campaign to bridge the gap while they went through the process to become a federally recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit, which will open up a wide array of opportunities for grants and other resources. Also in support of this effort, the venue announced a cassette compilation of performances recorded at Drkmttr in 2023, appropriately titled Live From Drkmttr Vol. 1. The original May release date was pushed back to August, and the collection expanded to 24 tracks. Local faves like Lou Turner, Joe Kenkel, Impediment, Yammer Jaw, The Sleeveens and Total Wife are featured alongside touring greats like Gustaf, Kowloon Walled City, Horse Jumper of Love and Sweet Pill.
Between 2 and 5 p.m. on the afternoon of Saturday, Aug. 24, swing by the venue for a release party where you and your tapehead buds can listen to the comp and participate in a cassette swap. That part of the event will involve folks from local labels including YK Records, Second Floor Recordings, Trance//Furnace and more. If you needed more incentive to come: Arrive within the first hour and enjoy free snacks and drinks.
Keep an eye on Drkmttr's Instagram for more. There's no cover for the release shindig, but stick around for the evening's ticketed show with The Low Blow and friends, advance tix for which are $10.
