New Jersey Stage 2017: Issue 40 | Page 100

Cryptkeeper Five may not be as well known as they deserve is because of where they are from. Trenton is truly an under- ground music scene. In fact, the best club to play runs shows in the basement. The city not only carries its underdog reputation with pride, but it has a very punk rock feel to it. Looking back, even with shows throughout the country and across Europe, Ott says many of his favorite perfor- mances took place in the Millhill basement. Some think of Trenton and in- stantly think of crime, but Ott says punk rock is usually found in the bad parts of every town. Ironically, it not only survives but thrives there with everybody getting along and enjoying the show. Ott thinks Trenton was meant to have an underground vibe, but he still imagines what could be. “I feel Trenton is like a little nest that’s going to hatch at some point,” he said. “People care for it and people love the city. If you’re from Trenton and you live around Trenton, you kind of have a love for it. You want to see good things happen for it.” w Shows at Mill Hill, Trenton October 27 with Hot Blood, Doc Rotten, The Carousers November 22 with St. James & The Apostles, Pissed!, Meeko Brando NJ STAGE 2017 - Issue 40 INDEX NEXT ARTICLE 100