What was once a friendly, low-key coffeeshop in the heart of Lowertown is soon to become a friendly, low-key coffeeshop within a stones' throw from the end of the Green Line and the new Saints ballpark. But even before the potential for a wider clientele emerged, the Black Dog was always a community cornerstone with an appreciation for the local arts scene and a finely tuned ear for musical guests. This year's edition of the Black Dog Block Party is being held in tandem with the citywide festivities around the Green Line's official launch, and the weekend's free rides give even U of M and Midway-area passengers a no-strings opportunity to catch the equally free festivities. Funk and soul vet headliners Maurice Jacox (pictured) and his band cap off an eclectic afternoon and evening that also features Black Dog regulars like Balkan party-folkers Orkestar Bez Ime and the jazz quartet Zacc Harris Group, alongside well-traveled Latin locals Salsa Del Soul and power-poppy indie/garage rockers The Person & the People.
