Miscelaney

The other evening I hot-footed it over the bridge to Seattle’s south of downtown’s district (SODO) to catch some live music at  Showbox Theatre. I vaguely remember tell about Showbox’s second venue when it opened, but it didn’t mean much since I had never been there until now. Caught some fun live acts (Jeremy Burk, followed by some he-man women hatin’ cowboys, and Southbound….clearly Jeremy Burk was the fave of the eve).  

But it got me thinking about all of the great places to catch live music in these parts that aren’t necessarily on my radar. So I decided to build a refresher list based on recent new finds, places I’ve forgotten about and/or peer feedback. Give the list a look in case you find any hidden gems to put on your list of fun. In no particular order:

SODO Showbox–Accomodates both the large-name crowd pleasers and the more intimate, lesser-known bands. Cool yet functional space which brings in a variety of acts. Can’t speak for seeing large acts in the main space, however catching the lesser-knowns in the bar side is highly recommended for something different.

The Comet Tavern–Old school, dive bar in Capitol Hill which reminds you the entire time you. are. in. a. bar. Dirty, loud, fun.

Rendezvous Jewel Box Theatre–Restored to its original 1927 condition the Jewelbox Theater in Belltwon is a hidden gem not only to catch live music but also plays, burlesque and Cabaret shows. 

The SeaMonster Lounge–Eat. Drink. Groove. Very likable place in Wallyhood (er, Wallingford). Old school quirky. Great place to listen to some funk/jazz and sip some suds.

Highway 99 Blues Club–Great, great, great venue(!) under it’s namesake on the waterfront. This juke joint makes you feel like you are transported back in history to a smokey blues club (sans the smoke) in Chicago. Terrific atmosphere, great music, tasty Cajun menu.

The Mix In Georgetown–This funky, artsy, intimate space is a reliable place to catch new and emerging artists.

New Orleans Creole Restaurant–a staple for creole food in Pioneer Square, the stage highlights America’s musical heritage of jazz standards, blues, zydeco and Dixieland. Acts range from local, regional and national musicians.

The Willows Lodge–This is the sleeper of the list. Wouldn’t have ever thought of this as an option until a group of us ended up there one chilly, winter’s evening. The fire was roaring, the two-man acoustic act was deliciously crooning in the background while we cozied up and enjoyed several [wine] bottles of Washington’s best.

Daniel’s Broiler Bellevue–And last but not least, who doesn’t love a good piano bar? A rousing, sing-along version of Piano Man takes it home every time.