music hotspots II

Have fun at all the venues The Tab provided for you last time round? Well don’t get too comfy because we’re back for round two…

Barcelona bar is possibly one of the quirkiest bars in Liverpool – describing their decor as “Gaudi-esque” (after the legendary Spanish architect) the interior is definitely unconventional.

The best bit of this bar however is that underneath it is an underworld of the coolest shops packed with alternative fashion, but that’s for a whole other section of The Tab.

This place advertises as being open 7 nights a week with regular live music usually with free entry. And when the pints are cheaper than most places in Liverpool, this one is definitely worth a visit!

Take a drink in the mind of Noel Fielding…

The Lomax hosted some of the biggest names in music in the 90’s including Radiohead, Muse, Oasis and Coldplay to name just a few.

Nowadays the bands you’ll see in this cheap and cheerful venue are most likely unsigned local acts. But it still welcomes a few famous names every now and then, just last week Ian Mcculloch of Echo and the Bunnymen treated the Lomax crowd to a spontaneous song or two.

The Lomax mostly sells drinks by the can at two quid a go and a lot of the time entry is free or only around 3 quid on the door, so great for those of us on a budget (and let’s face it you’re a student so you’re always on a budget).

Famous for their luminous doors

The Head of Steam describe themselves as a “hidden gem” and this is definitely the case.

With an entrance down a dark corridor from Lime Street Station it really does feel hidden away. This place is great for any cask ale drinking, real pub lovers but it’s the live music on the weekend that will be to most peoples taste. They showcase unsigned local talent and best of all they don’t charge an entry fee!

They’re right under North Western Halls so are sure to welcome a few friendly student faces and make sure you ask about student discount at the bar to save yourself some pennies.

Free entry. I repeat, free entry.

Leaf is a tea shop with a difference.As well as finding more types of tea than you can shake a stick at you can also find a variety of live acts performing and interesting things to do most nights of the week.

Leaf offers everything from acoustic sets to DJ sets to open mic nights. Tickets are usually around £6 and don’t worry if you need something a little stronger than a herbal tea as they sell alcohol too! Bottled beer and draught beer from around 3 quid, maybe a little on the pricey side but Leaf is all about the atmosphere and the music so you won’t be disappointed. It’s so good that it’s where The Tab holds it’s very own monthly meeting.

We’re the ones lurking in the shadows

The Zanzibar is a great intimate venue for local indie/rock bands! There is live music almost every Friday and Saturday and you can usually just get down there and pay on the door, starting from as little as £2.

It’s cheap as chips and you’ll usually see about 3 or 4 bands in a night! Beer prices are pretty average, it won’t break the bank but maybe treat yourself to a couple of drinks before you get down there to sharpen up.

What’s your favourite dish? I’m not going to cook it but I’ll order it from Zanzibar!

So what are you waiting for? The Tab spoils you for entertainment it really does.