Just because bands from Kansas City don't get the same kind of national recognition as bands from New York or Los Angeles doesn't mean that there aren't a ton of highly talented musicians in this city. If you've never been hip to the KC music scene, or if you're new to the area, here are some of the local venues that feature the best live music Kansas City has to offer.
The Record Bar:
1020 Westport Road, Kansas City, MO
http://www.therecordbar.com/
Phone #: (816) 753-5207
The Record Bar is the queen of Kansas City music venues. Not only do they offer the best variety of local talent, but they also book national acts that would otherwise be unavailable to Kansas Citians. Also, the owners understand that a person liking rock and roll doesn't mean that they only eat chili dogs and French fries. You won't have to choose from a menu restricted to greasy, deep-fried appetizers. The new menu features gourmet salads, pastas, sandwiches and pizzas.
The Brick:
1727 McGee, Kansas City, MO
http://www.thebrickkcmo.com/
Phone #: (816) 421-1634
The Brick has remained Kansas City's ever-steady hipster dive. They don't have the space available to book immensely popular national acts, but they do get their fair share of solid touring bands and novelty shows. Nearly every night of the week, you can view, and hear, some of Kansas City's top rock 'n' rollers. Every Monday from 10pm to 2:30am, they provide one of Kansas City's most popular karaoke nights, hosted by Brodie Rush and appropriately named Brodioke.
Davey's Uptown:
3402 Main St., Kansas City, MO
http://www.daveysuptown.com/
Phone #: (816) 753-1909
Davey's has been a part of the Kansas City bar scene for more than 60 years now. It's one of those “old reliable” venues that continues to focus on well-established artists as well as the best emerging talent. Their website boasts, “Serving alcohol since 1925... Legally since 1934.” Davey's features free pool, lots of drink specials, and even a Gothic dance night every Monday.
The Grand Emporium:
3832 Main St.
http://www.kcclubs.com/grandemp.cfm
Phone #: (816) 561-2560
The Grand Emporium used to cater to fans interested in hearing soulful blues music. The walls were chock full of rock and blues memorabilia. Since those days, the GE has undergone some major renovations. The venue has been transformed into a posh nightclub featuring DJs, martinis, and salsa dancing. Despite the fashionable transformation, they haven't forgotten about rock 'n' roll. They continue to feature solid live performers nearly every night of the week.
The Hurricane:
4048 Broadway, Kansas City, MO
http://www.hurricanekc.com/
Phone #: (816) 268-4781
The Hurricane used to be known mostly as a hard rock and metal venue. Last year, they began paying more attention to groups from the pop- and indie-rock genres. Now you can find every style of music live at the Hurricane, and you don't have to get your face tattooed or dye your hair black in order to feel like you're in the right place.
Mike's Tavern:
5424 Troost
http://www.mikestavernkc.com/
Phone #: (816) 444-3399
Mike's Tavern is a what-you-see-is-what-you-get type of dive bar that doesn't specialize in tropical colored martinis or creating a high-class dance club atmosphere. What they are good at is serving up tons of live music, especially on the weekends. So, if you've been waiting to dress up in that new Gucci apparel you've been saving for a special occasion, you probably want to make plans elsewhere. But if you're used to wearing jeans and a t-shirt when you head out on the town, and if you like the sound of screeching guitars, then this might be a venue you'll enjoy.
El Torreon:
3101 Gillham
www.myspace.com/eltorreonballroom
Phone #: (816) 561-8349
El Torreon has been promoting live music for almost eighty years. Today, they specialize in punk and hardcore bands, but are not limited to those two genres. El Torreon is an alcohol-free venue that features plenty of all ages and 18+ shows. Shows usually begin early, around 7pm.
The Anchor:
935 State Line Rd., Kansas City, MO
www.myspace.com/anchorkc
The Anchor is an all-ages venue whose owners try to remain true to DIY ethics, and they are adamant when it comes to booking. Punk and hardcore are the only genres that they willingly support. Indie and screamo bands need not apply. Guests are also encouraged to bring their skateboards; there is a 1/4 pipe inside the venue.
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