Original live music in Cincinnati?

June 30, 2009 12:09 PM

Cool (non-event type) spots to catch live music in Cincinnati?

Back in the Queen City... where are the chill places to hang out at and hear original live music? Indie, Alt.Country, Folk and all that in between...

posted by caveat empress to media & arts (6 comments total)

Bogarts
Top Cats
Mad Hatter
Riverbend (although they usually have huge concerts come through, but the lawn is nice)
Riverfest
Oktoberfest
Summerfest

The festivals usually have a lot of originals playing, not so much at Bogarts. Top Cats and Mad Hatter usually have locals as well.
posted by ThaBombShelterSmith at 12:54 PM on June 30

Followup question, if caveat doesn't mind - what are some good local bands to look out for in these places or anywhere else?
posted by pdb at 1:03 PM on June 30

Best places are the Northside Tavern for local indie acts (I think it's pretty much always free), Southgate House in Newport for local and national, mostly rock acts, and the Comet (they used for have free bluegrass Sunday nights).
posted by carrienation at 1:10 PM on June 30

YES, to Northside Tavern. The Comet has been going downhill recently. They used to have bands every weekend. Not so much anymore. The Tavern remodeled their back room and it's amazing.

As for bands: 7 Speed Vortex, Messerly & Ewing, Wussy (they just put out an album that was favorably reviewed on Fresh Air), and Eagle to Squirrel Variety Hour. Full disclosure: I know people in each band.

There's also the Midpoint Music Festival in September.
posted by cooker girl at 2:33 PM on June 30

Southgate House in Newport is a great venue for local and national acts.

Check CityBeat for music coverage, caveat empress - they have a weekly e-mail with concert recommendations.

And for this weekend - check out the Northside Rock 'n Roll carnival and parade!

And ditto on Wussy recommendation - my favorite band. They will be playing a free show on Fountain Square on July 17 (part of the MidPoint Indie series every Friday night at Fountain Square.)
posted by tizzie at 7:58 AM on July 1

Lots of great tips - thanks so much... see you all at the shows!
posted by caveat empress at 7:33 PM on July 1