
Another Philly landmark is closing it's doors. Crimson Moon at Sansom/20th Sts is closing its doors.
Over the years the Moon's been the site of many a politicking session, but also fashion shows, photo shoots and various music events. The Philly neo-soul duo Kindred the Family Soul shot their video there. And many of Koko's DJ friends drop off hot new albums for her to play at the Moon to build a buzz before their official release.
Crimson Moon hasn't changed much since it opened 10 years ago, but customers and fans say it's always been ahead of its time-for Philly.
"Philly needed this 10 years ago. And still needs it," says, Uzoamaka, Koko's best friend of 17 years who helped decorate the coffee shop and create the vibe. "What we wanted was a little living room to have all the people we know," she says. "This was all before Starbucks moved to Philly. Now people are so tired of the big corporation. They need little grungy bohemian places with culture."
I've never been to this spot in the year that I've lived here, but I'm sad that I won't have the opportunity to fully apreciate it. I've walked by its funky exterior many times on errands and just walking around town. Little joints like these are what gives towns and cities their real charm.
Crimson Moon was indeed ahead of its time. A late-night coffeeshop where you could sit on couches and hang out and listen to music? It was a new idea when it first opened. The people who work there are the friendliest you'll ever meet, and I can only hope that they'll be able to find a new location soon.
This neighborhood is depressing me with every closing or announcements thereof. Sue's Produce, Moos One, Milou Gallery, Lombardi's-- is there a petition going around to stop this nonsense? or something? Please let me know.
Posted by: yoko | June 07, 2005 at 09:22 AM
Well, as far as I know, Sue's hasn't announced anything. Have you heard otherwise? And I don't know how much petitions can do to save these smaller shops. With condominium units selling at $3M a pop in the new Rittenhouse condo where Rindelaub's is, it's more than an uphill battle. It's like an uphill battle in a gravity chamber.
Posted by: albert | June 07, 2005 at 09:28 AM