Text courtesy of Los Angeles Magazine.
Not the stage-diving type? These music venues might change your mind
For the rest of the list and more of the best of Los Angeles, check out Los Angeles Magazine.
Great LA Music Venues
Echo/Echoplex(01 of06)
The Echoplex and its sister stage, the Echo, form a hub for the Echo Park-area music scene. Every kind of alternative act finds its way to these gritty clubs. The Echo sports out-of-place crystal chandeliers and an asphalt patio in back; the Echoplex draws larger acts that are undeterred by the dicey alley entrance. The vibe at both varies depending on what you’re there for, whether it’s local alt-country bands, electro-pop DJs, roller skate nights, or silk-screening parties. Pictured: Liam FinnEcho/Echoplex1822 W. Sunset Blvd. (Echo) 1154 Glendale Blvd. (Echoplex)Photo via Flickr: jorgemir
Hollywood Forever Cemetery (02 of06)
A graveyard that doubles as a theater: It could only work in Hollywood. The Cinespia film screenings—held where Rudolph Valentino, Cecil B. De Mille, and other movie legends are entombed—launched the cemetery as an entertainment venue in 2002, and last year’s extraordinary sunrise gig by the band Bon Iver established it as one of the city’s most magical outdoor concert venues, too. Most shows take place in the Masonic Lodge, a stunning 1927 building with vaulted ceilings, stained-glass windows, and remarkable acoustics. Ethereal indie rock suits the surroundings—Iron and Wine, Band of Horses, and Hope Sandoval have all performed here.Pictured: Belle & SebastianHollywood Forever Cemetery 6000 Santa Monica Blvd., HollywoodPhoto via Facebook: Hollywood Forever
McCabe’s Guitar Shop(03 of06)
Folks gripe about having to sit on folding metal chairs, but it’s worth putting up with a little discomfort to watch a show at the Santa Monica guitar shop-cum-folk institution. Since the store began holding concerts in 1969, its humble stage has welcomed a stream of legends, including Linda Ronstadt, Tom Waits, and Townes Van Zandt. Playing the living room-like venue is a rite of passage for any up-and-comer. Pictured: Peter CaseMcCabe’s Guitar Shop3101 Pico Blvd., Santa MonicaPhoto via Flickr: freeloosedirt
Hotel Café(04 of06)
This Cahuenga Corridor club (the entrance is in back) retains the feel of its former life as a coffeehouse, with hanging lanterns, dark booths, and exposed-brick walls. These days, however, you can order a panino and gimlet with your latte as you enjoy the first-rate sound system. In addition to being a frequent stop for well-known singer-songwriters, the café specializes in nurturing new talent with an annual national tour that showcases a bevy of gifted regulars.Pictured: Chris PierceHotel Café16231/2 N. Cahuenga Blvd., Hollywood Photo via Flickr: mil8
Bootleg Theater(05 of06)
A former Rampart District bra factory from the 1930s reopened in 2000 as a lively arts complex that hosts entertainment ranging from theater to spoken word to music. Concerts are often held in the barnlike front room, where lights suspended from rafters give the joint a desert roadhouse look. Despite a vintage cocktails sign, only beer and wine are served. Artists skew indie, but the sound quality is major. We’re also fans of the unobstructed stage views and the blessedly low ticket prices (about $5 to $20 per show). Our only complaint: Brooklyn Bagel across the street closes too early to satisfy postshow cravings. Pictured: Buffy Sainte-MarieBootleg Theater2220 Beverly Blvd., Los AngelesPhoto via Flickr: bootlegtheater
Grammy Museum (06 of06)
It’s hard to believe there’s a place in L.A. where your musical heroes perform for a mere 200 people, which can include you. Artists such as Brian Wilson, Ringo Starr, and Annie Lennox have appeared at the museum’s cushy new Clive Davis Theater. Even better, when their sets are done, they might stick around to dish about life behind the scenes or to offer guitar-playing tips. Hit the museum early to get a peek at Michael Jackson’s gloves and J.Lo’s slit-to-there Versace dress from the 2000 Grammys (you know the one). Pictured: John Legend and The RootsGrammy Museum 800 W. Olympic Blvd., Los AngelesPhoto via Facebook: Grammy Museum