Cafe The Zen

Heading out into the cold, we made our way to the bus stop, which was conveniently located right outside our flat. This was my first Saturday night in Amsterdam and I was not going to let a little cold weather dampen my spirits. Bundled up, Verse iTal and I headed East to Molukkenstraat where he had another gig lined up! This one was at Café The Zen and was supposed to be easier to find than the last venue. Looking out the window I was slightly worried though, as it seemed we were heading into a residential area, but at our stop we walked confidently across the street as the DJ had instructed. On the corner, as promised, we found the Surinamese owned Café The Zen. I liked the vibe of the café as soon as I entered. Reggae music filled the room and a few people were socializing along the long bar while others sat chatting around tables creating a really vibrant atmosphere. The owner greeted us with a large smile and told us the drinks we just ordered were on the house.

The DJ’s for the night Kultur M, Vega Selector and Manu Berry kept the feel good vibes going while we hung out. These DJ’s, just like the event before, played mostly reggae songs that I wasn’t familiar with. In most places I’ve lived and visited, I usually hear the familiar classic reggae songs or the newer popular ones that are in constant replay on all the radio stations.  These DJ’s played different styles of reggae like roots reggae and dub versions. They also played many reggae songs from European artists. It was refreshing listening to new (at least to me) beats and songs.

Verse iTal performed after 1am and by then the crowd had grown. Singing 6 songs, Professional, Pon D Hillside, Spring Water, Nyquil, Never Hurt and Blueprint, the crowd responded favorably and in no time he had them rocking, some with hands in the air. After his performance he spoke to some new fans that expressed their appreciation for his music. We had such a fun a night and we left the café feeling blessed that we were able to spend time making new memories in Amsterdam! 

Verse iTal performing at Cafe The Zen

Patrons rocking to Verse iTal's performance

Verse iTal performing at Cafe The Zen

Verse iTal sang his hits Professional, Pon D Hillside, Spring Water, Nyquil, Never Hurt and Blueprint

Verse iTal with the owner of Cafe The Zen 

Group photo with the DJ's Kultur M, Manu Berry and Vega Selector 

Another group photo with the three DJ's, the owner of Cafe The Zen and a new fan

Looking through the window at Cafe The Zen

 Verse and I in Cafe The Zen

Verse iTal outside the cafe after a brilliant performance