A staple of Erie’s underground music and arts scene is beginning a new chapter. Robert Jensen, founder of Basement Transmissions, announced he is stepping away and handing the keys over to longtime friends and fellow creatives — the Lavery family of Lavery Brewing Company.

“Basement Transmissions has always been more than a place where bands play on a stage,” Jensen wrote in a heartfelt post on Facebook. “It’s been a label, a venue, a practice space, and a home for artists.” After years of cultivating the region’s music culture, Jensen emphasized that this is not the end — “BT still exists in our minds,” he said. “We never have to say goodbye to the memories we made.”

The Laverys, Jason D. Lavery and Nikki Lavery, will now lead the space under their venture, Lavery Ventures, LLC.

They plan to honor the building’s artistic legacy while introducing fresh energy and enhancements.

The Laverys, best known for their craft brewery and community involvement, are no strangers to Erie’s creative culture.

Jason and Robert even share roots in early bands like SKS and Pegasus Unicorn.

The building itself has a rich history — once a gospel church, then home to the Road House Theater, and most recently, Basement Transmissions.

According to real estate agent Danielle Jones-Miglicio, who represented Lavery Ventures in the sale, the space will be “thoughtfully improved to highlight its historic beauty and become a welcoming space for future events.”

As for Jensen, he’s not disappearing from the scene. “I’ll still be making art and music — I’m not dead or anything,” he joked. “I’ll see you out there.”

Stay tuned for what’s next as Lavery Brewing blends beer, music, and creativity in a new era for one of Erie’s most iconic cultural venues.