Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Live Music
Music is a proud tradition in this part of the state, where you can see any kind of musical
performance, from a four-piece bluegrass band kicking out jug tunes to a lone DJ spinning
the latest trance grooves. The area's unique prominence on the country's musical stage
can be traced all the way back to the German settlers who immigrated to the area in the
mid-1800s, as well as to the rich musical heritage Texas has always shared with Mexico.
Austin's modern sound first took shape in the early 1970s at a barnlike venue known as
the Armadillo World Headquarters.
Today, most live-music bars and clubs have a mix of local and touring bands. On any
given Friday night there are several hundred acts playing in the town's 200 or so venues,
and even on an off night (Monday and Tuesday are usually the slowest) you'll typically
have your pick of more than two dozen performances. Often there are two or three bands
per venue each night. Cover charges range from $3 for local bands to $15 or more for
touring acts. Music shows often start late, with the headliner starting anywhere from 9pm
to midnight, though a few clubs offer music as early as 4pm, and doors almost always
open half an hour to an hour before showtime. Showing up at the last minute or fashion-
ably late may result in not getting in. If you want to get started early, most places have a
happy hour (4pm to 7pm).
Although the part of Sixth St between I-35 and S Congress Ave has become more of a
frat-boy-and-tourist scene, there are still a few venues for dependably great live shows, es-
pecially as you head west of Congress. West of Congress Ave, the Warehouse District is
more about sexy salsa spots and swanky martini bars, but you'll also find a couple of de-
cent live-music venues.
Many of the venues we recommend are Austin institutions. If you want to experience
Austin's music scene but aren't sure where to start, any of these are good bets.
LIVE MUSIC
Continental Club
( 512-441-0202;
www.continentalclub.com
; 1315 S Congress Ave)
No passive toe-tapping here; this
1950s-era lounge has a dance floor that's always swinging with some of the city's best
local acts.
Stubb's Bar-B-Q
MAP
LIVE MUSIC
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