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Days of Rona: Claudia Crespo of Ode to Doom

Posted in Features on April 1st, 2020 by JJ Koczan

The statistics of COVID-19 change with every news cycle, and with growing numbers, stay-at-home isolation and a near-universal disruption to society on a global scale, it is ever more important to consider the human aspect of this coronavirus. Amid the sad surrealism of living through social distancing, quarantines and bans on gatherings of groups of any size, creative professionals — artists, musicians, promoters, club owners, techs, producers, and more — are seeing an effect like nothing witnessed in the last century, and as humanity as a whole deals with this calamity, some perspective on who, what, where, when and how we’re all getting through is a needed reminder of why we’re doing so in the first place.

Thus, Days of Rona, in some attempt to help document the state of things as they are now, both so help can be asked for and given where needed, and so that when this is over it can be remembered.

Thanks to all who participate. — JJ Koczan

ode to doom claudia crespo

Days of Rona: Claudia Crespo of Ode to Doom (Manhattan, New York)

How are you dealing with this crisis? Have you had to rework plans at all? How is your health so far?

As the producer/promoter who runs Ode to Doom, I had to cancel our bi-monthly show in March, which obviously was necessary. Bands were getting nervous. I was getting nervous. I felt torn, because part of me wanted to keep the show going, for the venue, for myself, for the two bands that still wanted to play. As the days got closer to the show, I realized how serious the situation really was, so I did what I thought best and canceled. Two days later, the governor of NY officially closed down non-essential establishments and that was that. As of now, the next Ode will be on May 20th, but to be honest, that’s still up in the air.

What are the quarantine/isolation rules where you are?

New York bars and venues are required by law to remain shut and so that’s pretty much it (until further notice). Only essential businesses are allowed to remain open, like grocery stores.

How have you seen the virus affecting the community around you and in music?

I think the doom metal community has a way of sticking together through the tougher times, at least that’s what I’ve noticed, and this situation is no different. I feel a real sense of community despite shows being canceled. People are helping bands who have had to cancel tours due to the virus, they’re helping bands promote their merch, etc. It’s a difficult time indeed but I think we’re trying to do the best we can. I’m trying my best to take it one day at a time, that’s all you can really do. On a personal level, it’s definitely tested my sobriety but I’m managing. I do a little journaling and meditation everyday.

What is the one thing you want people to know about your situation, either as a band, or personally, or anything?

To keep going one day at a time. That’s really all you can do. You’re not alone, we’re all in this together. One essential is connect with others, through FaceTime, through music, through sharing music, and remember to breathe. This will get better.

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