The First Wednesday Art Walk and three of The Elbow’s nightlife spots made the list in Jacksonville-based travel blogger Angie Away’s “A Jacksonville Playlist: The Best Live Music Venues” on The Virgin Atlantic Blog. She writes:
“Jacksonville is the birthplace of many a famous band, from Southern Rock heroes Lynyrd Skynyrd, Molly Hatchet and 38 Special to modern acts like Red Jumpsuit Apparatus, Limp Bizkit, Yellowcard & Shinedown. Other notable musicians have roots here, too, like country superstar Tim McGraw and blues legend Ray Charles.
Thanks to a broad musical history and a curiously talented population, the live music scene in Jacksonville continues to gain momentum and produce new artists. It helps that there are dozens of dark dive bars, open-air establishments, cute cafés and monthly events like Downtown’s Art Walk to support every imaginable genre of musical talent. On any given night, Jacksonville’s venues teem with both recognizable national acts and current local favourites like rock outfit Master Radical and ska powerhouse Chieforia. Take a listen to our Jacksonville playlist and peruse our pick of the city’s best live music venues for a taste of what to expect.”
It’s a great list Angie – but of course, we’re a little partial to three of your picks:
1904 Music Hall – 19 Ocean St.
“The building that houses 1904 Music Hall is more than 100 years old, with restored columns and industrial-looking wood-beamed ceilings accompanying an impressive, modern sound system. A graffiti-covered courtyard offers a view of the skyline, and the line-up is always memorable. It’s one of Downtown’s best bets for live jams.”
Burro Bar – 100 E. Adams St.
“Just up the street from 1904 is the smoky dive, Burro Bar. Skinny jeans and handlebar moustache aren’t required for entry, though there is a decidedly hipster feel to the joint. A rotating craft beer selection with a hopping happy hour, combined with pool tables, a few arcade games and an interesting Mexican vibe make this Downtown dive a fun place to catch a touring band. “
Underbelly – 113 E. Bay St.
“This quirky venue attracts an eclectic, indie clientele and all manner of artists, from jazz musicians to bluegrass strummers to fire dancers. Homey furniture, exposed beams and a tasty menu of small bites complete the experience at Underbelly. Like the majority of Jax’s best music hotspots, the beer selection is notable.”
These and the more than 20 other businesses that make up The Elbow are hard at work making Downtown the premier live music and entertainment destination in Jacksonville. For a regular list of shows delivered to your inbox, sign up for The Elbow Express.