Show time
August 7, 2008 by The Red and Black Archives
Filed under Athenscape
For many, nightlife in downtown Athens consists of an alluring variety of bars and band parties. But with the copious amounts of music downtown has to offer, give the liver a rest and go catch a show. Here’s a guide to the most popular music venues in Athens
- Chris Anthony & Chelsea Cook
40 WATT CLUB
Where: At the end of W Washington Street across from Sunshine Cycles.
The 40 Watt is probably the most well-known music venues in Athens. Bands such as the B-52’s, R.E.M. and the Flaming Lips, the Strokes and the Killers have graced the 40 Watt’s stage in the past, while recent years acts have included Cartel, Modest Mouse and Queens of the Stone Age. The 40 Watt is a the place for local acts, and a the place for locals to see a show.
GEORGIA THEATRE
Where: You can’t miss it. On Lumpkin Street, adjacent to Little Italy.
The Theatre is one of the largest concert venues in Athens. One of the venue’s selling points is the broad range of music it hosts, including hip-hop, country, jam bands, and a variety of cover bands.
“We’re not genre specific,” said Wilmot Greene, owner of the Georgia Theatre. “We do everything here.”
CALEDONIA
Where: Corner of E Clayton and Pulaski Street.
The Caledonia Lounge hosts its crowd in a cool, cave-like surrounding where the acoustics are unbeatable. While this is a hot spot for newer, smaller local acts, the venue is strict on proper ID and cover prices are a bit higher. But the sound and atmosphere are worth it.
MELTING POINT
Where: 295 E. Dougherty St, across for the Classic Center
The Melting Point is a restaurant/music venue that is connected with The Foundry Park Inn. Although this small venue hosts a variety of local acts for around the same price as other venues, the atmosphere is much more sophisticated and intimate. This is one of Athens’ best date spots, where you can eat good food, see a good show, but is still sober and quiet enough to have a conversation.
TASTY WORLD
Where: Corner of Broad Street and Jackson Street.
Wanna start a band? Tasty World would be happy to host your first show.
Although this venue is known for its willingness to help and host any up-and-coming act, they have also had several big names grace their stages, including My Morning Jacket, The Shins and Kings of Leon. With an upstairs and a downstairs (and sometimes, both at once) Tasty World always has something going on for the 18+ crowd.
