Jan 16, 2010
Let’s go down the short list of places we know of in Downtown Orlando to go to for local music(correct me if I miss one):
1. The Social.
Definitely a cozy, up-front, bare-bones place to check out a local show, and not a bad seat in the house, assuming there actually were actual seats.
2. BackBooth.
Haven’t been to this place much, but the stage looked kinda dinky and the audio board was tucked behind what looked to be a batting cage. Felt like I was at the Double Deuce in “Roadhouse”.
3. AKA Lounge.
Big stage, decent sized bar, NOT the place to go to listen to rock. Somehow, it’s hard to get into a heavy band with people sitting in shoe-shaped chairs and admiring lit paintings on the wall at the same time.
4. Firestone.
They’re getting a lot of national acts through their door and creating impressive lineups, but the stage viewing area looks like a fishtank, but a fishtank that works for this multi-leveled setup. Beats the hell out of the poorly-designed House Of Blues.
5. Will’s Pub.
Technically isn’t really, since the original one isn’t standing anymore, but still a great reincarnation of a place with good vibes, cozy atmosphere, and something different to do in each section. Stage isn’t as big as Will’s 1, but the prestige and allure of the name will be sure to continue attracting talented acts- local and national- to want to play there.
Essentially, those are the staple places to go see live music in the downtown scene that people know of. But these are not the only places to catch a show.
Club 57 West, sister of AKA Lounge(please don’t ask the address- it’s not funny) is becoming a routine stop for a more cultured lineup of acts to stop in. Casey’s on Central is not a bad joint and frequently has people play. WaiTiki on Wall St, Central Station, and many other restaurants/clubs are sprouting up and realizing the need for a place for local bands and artists to play….ok, maybe they just realize that there’s money to be made in it.
Regardless, Downtown Orlando is slowly transforming into a hub with more musical roots for people to enjoy. Now all we have to do is figure out where in the hell to park all of those people….