COLLEGE GUIDE: Best Spots for Live Music

Wednesday, August 29, 2012

Jeffrey Starr, GoLocalWorcester Contributor

From big shows to bar acts, live music is always a great escape. Photo: Pedro Cambra/flickr

There are few things that take your mind off a rough day or busy schedule better than losing yourself in the confines of your favorite music. Hearing music live adds the element of fun, energy and excitement.

Whether it is in a big arena or cozy bar, something about live music makes us feel alive. Here are a few of the best places in the Worcester area to let loose, hang out and forget about the world for a while.

The Palladium

If one is a fan of punk and metal, be sure to check the acts scheduled to perform at The Palladium often. This venue has been the premier spot in Worcester for nationally and internationally known live acts especially for bands of the aforementioned genres. Ticket prices depend on the particular artist scheduled to perform. The venue is a general admission facility with the main room generally all standing. For those over 21, alcohol is available to purchase. 261 Main St, Worcester. 508-797-9696. www.thepalladium.net

DCU Center

The DCU Center is Worcester’s premier big arena for both music and sports. Not only is it the home of the beloved Worcester Sharks but it often hosts the biggest live musical acts from around the world. Ticket Prices depend on the artist and the quality of the seat. 50 Foster St, Worcester. 508-755-6800. www.dcucenter.com

Jillian’s

Jillian’s of Worcester truly has something for everyone including a bar, numerous billiard tables, a fully stocked arcade and game room, and of course, live music on the stage every Friday and Saturday night beginning at 9:30. The best local and cover bands often frequent Jillians, playing a wide ranging set of genres from hard rock, to occasionally rap, dance, pop, reggae and swing music. 315 Grove St, Worcester. 508-793-0900. www.jilliansworcester.com

Beatnik’s

Beatnik’s is one of Worcester’s most unique live venues. As the name suggests, the lounge was created in homage to and as a hang out spot for the popular subculture that formed in the 50’s and 60’s. The atmosphere is funky but intimate and has music acts that reflect the mission of the venue every weekend. This mission, simply put, is to “allow you to be you.” This is a 21 plus establishment and there are plenty of food and drinks available. 433 Park Ave, Worcester. 508-926-8877. www.beatniksbeyou.com

Lucky Dog Music Hall

Lucky Dog is one of Worcester’s best venues to see live rock music acts. Performances come from all corners of the rock landscape from 80’s tributes to grunge, hard rock and metal cover bands. Bands play every Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday. In addition, every Thursday in addition to local bands, “Flock of Assholes”, described as the ultimate eighties tribute band, performs. 89 Green St, Worcester. 508-363-1888. www.luckydogmusic.com

Ralph’s Rock Diner

Ralph’s Rock Diner has already been mentioned in the College Guide as one of the best places in Worcester to grab a beer. But it deserves yet another mention as an amazing venue to go see live rock music. There is live music every Tuesday for “Totally Tuesdazed”, Friday and Saturday. In addition there is Metal Thursday where metal bands are featured. And don’t forget “Big Game Karaoke” every Wednesday night if you want to show off your own music skills. 148 Grove St, Worcester. 508-753-9543. http://www.ralphsrockdiner.com

Tammany Hall

Worcester’s famed Tammany Hall has hosted a wide-range of musical asks for all kinds of musical tastes, both well-known and no so well-known. These include the J.Geils Band, Eve 6, Badfish and The Cars. Acts performing recently include VII Dubstep, The Groove Doctors, and McCann Brothers. Inside there is also a bar, restaurant, and pool tables. All shows are 18 and over. 43 Pleasant St, Worcester. 508-753-7001. www.tammanyhalllive.com

Nick’s Bar and Restaurant

Nick’s Bar and Restaurant hosts live entertainment every single night. This German themed venue has a serene and neat feel thanks to the German paintings and stained glass artwork lining the wall. The set lists that often include jazz and acoustic performances help maintain this terrific environment. Listen inside or on the beautiful patio. Good food and drinks are always available as well. 124 Millbury St, Worcester. 508-753-4030. www.nicksworcester.com

The Hanover Theatre

If raucous rock concerts and rowdy bars are not necessarily your scene, check out what’s playing at Worcester’s famed Hanover Theatre. Over the years, the theatre has played host to the most well-known Broadway musicals in the world. But they also play host to a number of concerts you may enjoy if you are a fan of older music. In the near future for instance the Theatre will be playing host to an Elvis tribute musician and a having an oldies tribute night. 2 Southbridge St, Worcester. 877-571-SHOW. www.thehanovertheatre.org

JJ Sports Bar and Grill

This fun bar and grill may not be within the Worcester city limits but it is well worth the trip. Every Friday and Saturday starting at 9 pm the best local and national acts can be seen. And, as a bonus, occasionally these events are for charity. You can also take advantage of terrific food and drink deals the rest of the week or come watch some sports on the bar’s impressive high-def televisions as you listen to the great music in the backgroun. 380 Southwest Cutoff, Northboro. 508-842-8420. www.jbag.biz