MONROVIA, Montserrado – Monrovia’s entertainment scene has taken an important step forward with the May 14 launch of NasseBar in Fiamah. Conceived by Nasseman, Liberia’s premier reggae artist, the venue located at the corner of 21st Street and Gibson Avenue promises that visitors will experience “what a true reggae bar is like.â€
Although the house DJ was spinning hipco tunes for much of the night of the launch, the exquisitely designed venue with two well-stocked bars did channel a strong reggae vibe. Pictures of Bob Marley and liberal splashes of the green, red, and yellow Rastafarian colors allow guests to imagine that they are experiencing a slice of Jamaica.
Photo Credits: Jim Tuttle
Several hundred customers turned out for the grand opening, rendering the spacious venue at overflow capacity. Nasseman himself could be found behind the establishment’s main bar, hustling drink orders. NasseBar is stocked with practically every alcoholic beverage available in Monrovia, from No. 9 whiskey to Alizé cognac liqueurs.
The main area of the bar has a rather upscale feel. It features intimate lounge style seating, a large screen TV, and a modest dance pit (adjacent to the DJ booth) under the watchful gaze of Bob Marley.
Before patrons enter the main facility, they must pass through a partially enclosed mini-bar area featuring the more standard white plastic table and chair seating. The enclosure provides protection from the rain but allows for a gentle breeze. Here, thirsty customers can take in a beautiful mural of a map of Liberia superimposed with the Lion of Juda, the symbol of the Ethiopian emperor, while they guzzle a Club Beer.
Photo Credits: Jim Tuttle
Immediately outside lies a spacious seating area that can easily accommodate as many as those inside the main building while providing more convenient access to grilled fish and a direct blast from the powerful speakers.
Despite the number of customers crowding the facility for the launch, it is readily apparent that a great deal of effort has gone into NasseBar’s design. The large number of brightly composed murals dotting the interior and exterior of the facility demonstrate a strong attention to detail and creativity. They make NasseBar a significant step up from the quality of designs seen at other local entertainment venues such as Miami Beach.
Photo Credits: Jim Tuttle
Nasseman has demonstrated his interest in critical social issues such as integrity and corruption through songs like ‘Bonkey’. These concerns are reflected in the careful attention that has been shown to ensure that the bar bearing his name is a success.
NasseBar’s opening night set a strong tone. If the initial momentum is maintained, May 14 will mark the addition of a major asset to Monrovia’s nightlife and cultural scene.
Featured image courtesy of Ken Harper and Brooks Marmon
