(Photo by Damien Dennis, ROTR 2013)
One of the hardest things for music fans to do when visiting new cities is finding the best spots to catch great live music. Heck, some people don’t even know the best spots in their own cities. More often than not where you go depends on who’s playing. Music fans will go just about anywhere to see their favorite bands when they roll through town. But what about the times when there isn’t any bands you know playing in your area? Well there’s still great music to be heard if you just take a chance. What’s the worst that happens, you discover a new band that you might really like. Personally speaking, I’ve never had a bad time at a show. Even if you think the band sucks, live concerts are full of positive energy and like-minded music fans that feed off each other. So let’s take a look at the best spots you may or may not be familiar with in your area.
New York City/North Jersey
Bowery Ballroom:
Located on Manhattan’s lower east side, the Bowery Ballroom is probably one of the best venues in the area for catching independent bands, Those on their way up and those holding their own. You’ll enjoy a clear view of the stage from just about any spot in this place that features a diversity of acts from all around.
Terminal 5:
Opened by Bowery Presents towards the end of 2007, Terminal 5 is the largest midtown venue to open up in the last few years. 3 floors and a capacity of 3,000, this venue holds some of the best known acts when they come through the NYC area. This crowd went nuts back in March when I saw Dropkick Murphys there. Definitely one of my favorite ones.
Roseland Ballroom:
The site of Portishead’s 1998 live album, Roseland is one of NYC’s must see music spots even if their sound system often gets a bad rap.
Hammerstein Ballroom:
Get ready to feel like a sardine in a can and shell out significant for cheap drinks in small plastic cups. Hammerstein regularly draws in acts that have not yet reached arena status, but are too large for clubs shows. It is possible to catch a great show here, but it is one of Manhattans pricier venues.
DragonFly:
Northern New Jersey’s largest indoor/outdoor music venue, DragonFly is located only a quarter mile from Metlife stadium. DragonFly features live music and dance parties for all ages to enjoy. Definitely a great spot to check out after the game or whenever you just need to unwind.
San Francisco Bay Area
Great American Music Hall:
One of San Francisco’s best spots for music and dinner. Intimate dinner settings are just one of the options for catching live bands and acoustic sets here. Vintage, relaxed and just an all-around great spot for music in the city by the bay.
The Fillmore:
Probably one of San Francisco’s best known venues, the Fillmore has so much history behind it. Decorated with posters from shows over the last 40 years, the place takes pride in its musical history. Located just south of the Presidio, it’s easily accessible by public transit and the price won’t break the bank either.
The Independent:
Along with the Fillmore, one of the best spot in San Francisco, maybe the whole area. Great sound, cheap drink and an intimate setting make the Independent a great spot for music, comedy, etc…
Fox Theater:
The architecture and design of the Oakland theater is definitely something to marvel at. Located just a block from the 19h street BART station, which is good because parking around Fox Theater can be tricky if you don’t shell out $10 for the parking garage down the street. Fox is a true diamond in the rough that is so much more that what most people expect on their first visit.
The New Parish:
A little more on the smaller side, the New Parish provides a great opportunity to get up close and interact with performers, bands and DJs.”Nothing fancy , no D-Bags , or prissy chicks . It’s a place with a stage , a lot of room to dance , and a big chill patio area in the middle” says one Yelp user. Also easily accessible via BART, New Parish is a great choice for seeing emerging acts.
Chicago
Lincoln Hall:
Great sound and a pretty loyal following, Lincoln Hall is one of those venues continues to draw people back again and again. “I’d probably pay to see a Weird Al Yankovich tribute band here” says one reviewer. “Ok…maybe not, but it is one of the best venues in Chicago that I’ve seen a show”.
Double Door:
This is just a really cool place. A true underground music venue. It has a very unimposing exterior, but once you get past that you find a venue much like many of the greats made their way through on their way up. Double Door has a spacious floor with the stage at the far end. Great sound and lighting just put the DD experience over the top.
The Hideout:
Opened in 1934, “The Hideout is a regular guy bar for irregular folks who just don’t fit in, or just don’t want to fit in”. At least that’s how they describe themselves. The Hideout is a dive, no doubt about that. But it’s a great place to catch live music and comedy and it’s it’s loved by all who visit.
No, I’m not done yet. This is only 3 cities! Check back for part II for more great venues in other cities around this great nation. ‘Murica!!
