Sick of all these cover bands? Looking for something original, something local? Ichabod’s is the place to find it.
Ichabod’s is known by LSU students as the city’s leading supporter of the local art and music scene. The bar is known for giving people their first shot. Ichabod’s takes chances on people other bars wouldn’t dream of booking, not only musicians but artists as well. Many local painters, sketch artists and photographers display their art inside the bar, creating a name for themselves by occasionally selling their pictures.
Since The Bayou burned down, Ichabod’s is the only bar on Chimes Street that plays local music. One would think after The Bayou burning, Ichabod’s would receive more customers. But the number of people frequenting the bar has since declined.
“One less bar is one less bar,” said Eric Broussard, co-owner of Ichabod’s. “It’s bad for the street and it’s bad for us.”
However, the response for local original music increased since The Bayou closed. Ichabod’s hosts bands including the Kenmores, Justin Bailey and the Red Stick Ramblers.
“I go there for the music they play,” said theater freshman Nathan Toups. “Ichabod’s plays music most of the other bars around here don’t play.”
    Bands are booked three months in advance and there are no regulars. This allows unknown bands to get a shot at playing for a crowd. The bar exposes people to music which might not be heard otherwise.
“Scott and Eric [co-owners of Ichabod’s] bust their asses to make Baton Rouge a better place for local music,” mass communication senior Adam Planche said. “This town would be shit without them.”
The bar has bands playing at least five nights a week, sometimes six. Monday night is usually reserved for jazz. Music always is streaming from the bar’s outside deck. Since the bands usually play outside, it leaves the inside open for those who aren’t in the mood for live music.
“Ichabod’s has the laid-back atmosphere I enjoy,” said photography sophomore Joseph Turek. “And Justin Bailey rocks the house.”
Inside the bar, an eclectic mix of music plays for people to chill to. Couches are strewn about for comfy sitting and hanging out with friends. Pool tables are located near the front door for those who desire some activity when they go out.
“Ichabod’s is chilled out, it’s not pretentious like the other bars around here,” said English junior Joanne Chapman. “And we definitely go there for the local music.”
The bar’s New Year’s Eve blowout will give students a chance to check out the bar and many local bands at once. Some bands that will be playing include Brother, 3 Ring Circus, Last Chance Dave, Judge Genius, Nail in the Brain and Poor Harvey. For those who can’t wait that long, check out The Kenmores with Victim of Modern Age and Daryl Friday, Nov. 8.
For more information about Ichabod’s visit the Web site at www.ichabods.net. For booking call Scott Frye Monday and Wednesday between 4 p.m. and 9 p.m. at (225) 318-3118.