The Bay Area is the absolute best place to see your favorite bands live. Whether it’s a massive show or an intimate set at a club, it’s the place to be for music. But what about finding your next favorite band? There’s something special about discovering new music at a live show. Ditch the Spotify playlist, here are some awesome real places to find new music.
1. Great American Music Hall
There’s nothing better than listening to great music in a theater so ornate, you’d expect to see John Wilkes Booth in the balcony (that’s a historical reference–never mind). The Great American Music Hall is famous for its elaborate decor. It’s a slice of history, with a side of music. The venue maxes at 600 people, so the shows aren’t a total mob scene. With a history of hosting acts from burlesque dancing to The Grateful Dead, the GAMH attracts the best and quirkiest in music. These days you can experience up-and-coming bands and very unique sets, from Fritz Montana to the Portland Cello Project.
2. Slim’s
Slim’s was founded in 1988 by R&B great Boz Scaggs (not to be confused with Boss Hogg, a fat man from a TV show). This live music nightclub prides itself on the fun atmosphere, attentive service and great music. It’s got a huge concert floor that is perfect for slam dancing, swaying or just hiding in a corner to watch. They specialize in American Roots, blues, R&B, jazz, alternative and beyond. A night at Slim’s might showcases an eclectic array of talent, and that’s right up our alley. You can catch rising stars J Stalin or Dakila alongside greats like Stiff Little Fingers.
3. The Chapel
The Chapel is a fairly new venue, but they have already made a splash with their attention to detail and great acts. Plus it was once a mortuary. How fun is that? Really fun, if you’re a morbid weirdo. Along with the large music room with mezzanine (a balcony-type level, not a pasta dish), the Chapel has a restaurant, neighborhood bar and outdoor dining patio. You can literally spend your entire night here, from dinner to drinks to show (there, we just saved date night). You will also be able to discover such acts as Thee Oh Sees, The High & Mighty Brass Band and Afrolicious. Delicious.
4. Boom Boom Room
Besides having just about the best name a club can ever have, the Boom Boom Room hosts some of the best blues, boogie, groove and soul. It’s like stepping back in time, when blues was king and cocktails were an acceptable breakfast beverage. Squeeze yourself onto the dance floor and try not to break anything when you get down to the music. Come down to experience bands like Unlikely Heroes, Blue Madrone and Manos Lindas. You know, there was a rumor that the old blues greats had to sell their souls to the devil for success and fame. Maybe that’s why they were so sad!
5. New Parish
At first glance, New Parish looks unremarkable; just a dark, plain facade that blends into San Pablo Avenue. But once inside you’ll discover a gem of a funky music venue. The building opens into a courtyard and balcony facing a two-story structure that holds the stage. It’s renowned for its fresh reggae, roots & world music and intimate vibe. For only there you can discover groups like Bleep Bloop (quite possibly the greatest band name ever), The Coup, and Afternoon Delight. We did not make that last one up, that is a group.