Ode To The Open Mike In Berlin

My name is Anouschka Pearlman.  I am a performing songwriter under the artist name Anouschka. I have a degree in guitar and songwriting from Berklee College of Music in the States and have paid my dues in New York, Boston, Los Angeles and Sweden before coming to Berlin 2 years ago.

Sunday is supposed to be a day of rest, but in the music mecca called Berlin, I often grab my gig-bag on Sunday evenings to head out for two open mikes: Artliners and “The Sesh.”

Artliners Folk/rock and roots, Gartnerstrasse 23, Friedrichshain

At Artliners any song goes as long as it comes from the gut.  It’s a well-worn neighborhood dive full of hippie hearts, sleepy hangovers and Harz IV clothes; don’t let that fool you, though.  The harshest critics in town are here. These jaded souls won't respond unless you’ve got the goods.

“The Sesh” at Al Hamra Singer/Songwriter, Raumstrasse 16, Prenzlauer Berg

“The Sesh,” which is hosted downstairs at the restaurant Al Hamra in boho P-berg, is often packed with a more upscale but lively crowd. Smoke wafting from hookahs, together with the oriental deco, inspire writers to test their mettle. The songwriting is typically mainstream singer- songwriter with spontaneous sessions afterward, and there is a  bonus: If you play you get a free beer.

“Acoustic Nights at the Lux” Singer/Songwriter, Schlesichestr. 41 Kreuzberg

A staple on the scene, but it’s a huge room, which makes it a challenge to connect with the audience - all the more reason to try! I’ve seen some brilliant artists here.

“New Standard Jam Session” at Edelweiss, Jazz, Goerlitzerstr. 1-3 Kreuzberg

I like the Edelweiss jam; it’s  low on attitude for a jazz jam (which suits me just fine) and open-minded. I have heard hip-hoppers get up and rap to standards. That’s what I call building bridges! Edelweiss has a special sentimental meaning for me. When I first arrived in Berlin with my guitar, dog, and suitcase, I moved into a WG around the corner. Edelweiss is where I drank my morning java every day.

For jazz purists and seasoned cats, there’s “Robin’s Nest” at the B Flat on Wednesdays. Rosenthalerstrasse 13, Mitte

A-Trane has a jam sometimes if you’re hardcore and awake around midnight! Bleibtreustrasse 1/Ecke Pestalozzistrasse, Charlottenburg

Know of a great open mike session? Have an experience to share? Let us know.