Best Live Music Spots in Seattle, Washington

Recommending places to hear live music is a tricky subject. After all, each person has their own musical tastes, and each venue changes performers so often that you might just happen to catch a really bad night. But in Seattle, you tend to be fairly lucky. The city has quite a few independent venues that consistently put on good shows. Here are a few that represent some of the diversity of music you will find citywide: 

Tulas- In the mood for big band or jazz? A lot of people will suggest that you head to Jazz Alley, just a few blocks away. But why go there, when you can go to Tula’s for a fraction of the price and still hear great jazz performances? This is a very cool spot: the fact that it is a jazz bar keeps a lot of the more obnoxious Belltown drunks out, leaving you with an enthusiastic crowd. You won’t get the great wine selection that you do at Jazz Alley, but they do have a full bar and a friendly staff, and the place is low-lit and clean. It fits right into that classy downtown ambiance Belltown is trying to establish in the post-grunge era. (2214 2^nd Ave, Seattle, WA. 98121; (206) 443-4221.)

The Baltic Room- This lower Capitol Hill bar is a great place to catch some of Seattle’s most talented DJ’s. They have people spinning all the time, so the odds are that you’ll catch someone interesting. A lot are young and up and coming, which is always nice to see. Also check out your local listings, as the Baltic Room can get some really talented artists that you won’t want to miss. (1207 Pine St. Seattle WA, 98101; (206)625-4406.)