Seeing local music is one of my favorite pastimes. I love seeing a community of people come together under one roof to enjoy a showcase of talent that exists in a city. Being back in Corpus Christi, I took a trip to a venue I had never been in before until recently: House of Rock. A bar, eatery, and stage all in one. I have been now a total of four times and wanted to put a little spotlight on a gem that lies near the shore. What better than to stop in on a night with a lineup of local and touring bands?
House of Rock opened in 2005. Inside amongst many eclectic photos and decor, you’ll find a main bar area with a kitchen, tables, and bartop, and a back area where a stage and another bar lay. The night I went the following musicians were to perform, local band L.I., along with Smile Empty Soul, Primer 55, and Makes My Blood Dance.
Before the show, I wanted to get a few words about House of Rock from a staff member.
I had the pleasure with speaking with the general manager, Stephanie Brazeal, also a former contributor to the Foghorn.
“I have been here for f14 years, and House of Rock’s been around 20, so at this point, I’ve been here more than half as long as it’s been around.”
I asked for Stephanie’s opinion of the impact the venue has had on bands from the area and those who are from out of Corpus that stop by to perform.
“It’s been really cool to see how bands have evolved, seeing bands grow. And we’re there when they just start off with twenty people, and we really get to see them grow into the 300-, 400-, 500-cap shows. A lot of them even outgrow us and go to Concrete Street, and Brewster Street. On occasion even the Hillard Center.”
She also shared her beginnings as to why she joined House of Rock.
“I came in as a music fan, as a college student to this position. Obviously not knowing I’d be here 14 years later as GM, but that’s what really kept me here. So many different people come to shows. We’re an all-ages venue. There’s not a ton of those in town, right? Most things are 21+ or 18 and up. So we really pride ourselves on being not just a place for live music, but a safe space in our community.”
The night of Feb. 5 has been my favorite show thus far. It was a delight to see a band from Brooklyn, New York getting the audience to hype up a crowd of people alongside fellow performers from Corpus.
I get pretty hungry from jumping around during a show so I of course had to get a slice of pizza off their menu. I have personally had so much pizza in my life I can say I’m a bit of a snob, and House of Rock is one of my favorites. I’m making a goal of trying everything off the menu, but I always fall back on the Earth Day pizza. They have a variety of sandwiches, wings, salads, and other related foods. If you are having a night indoors, they also have a delivery option.
The show closed and I had fun mingling with staff, performers, and others who came to see the show. I ended my night with one more slice of pizza at the main bar going through photos I took of the show, cementing another fun night at this downtown entertainment staple.
