| Feb 28, 2012
Known for having more of an edge, Hidden Agenda is located in a warehouse in an industrial building in Kwun Tong. Featuring more hardcore artists--screamo and straight edge is more of the focus here--Hidden Agenda also features indie rock bands such as Chochukmo and Poubelle International and their most popular punk band at the moment, Anti-Flag. Hidden Agenda has become a local band melting point, holding more than 300 people and a shop selling indie label CDs.
2A, Wing Fu Industrial Building, 15-17 Tai Yip St., Ngau Tau Kok, www.hiddenagendahk.com/
After opening its doors in 1987, The Wanch has prided itself on being hassle-free, unpretentious and international. Offering original showcase nights, the top local cover bands and jam sessions, The Wanch is dedicated to live music. The bands change often but the main focus here is classic rock, playing all your favorites from Bon Jovi to Deep Purple.
54 Jaffe Rd., Wanchai, 2861-1621, www.thewanch.hk.
Located in the heart of Lan Kwai Fong, the Hard Rock Café is a spot to go for a chilled out meal or a crazy night of dancing. Although its changed every three months, the bands featured so far have been very talented and never fail to get the crowd going. Having over 100 songs in their repertoire, from rock classics by the Red Hot Chili Peppers to party anthems by LMFAO, the current band The Jacks have managed to get themselves quite a following.
LG/F, LKF Tower, 55 D'Aguilar St., Lan Kwai Fong, Central, 2849-7625, www.hardrock.com
Amazonia is primarily a live music venue featuring two resident bands, Icebox and Katooz, with international experience covering mainly Pink Floyd, Queen, Deep Purple and other similar bands. From the outside it may look a bit daunting but once you get inside, you will be guaranteed to have a great time. The on-going action begins from when they open their doors at 8pm until closing time at 6am; seven days a week.
G/F, Henan Building, 15-19 Luard Rd., Wan Chai, 3105-8990, www.amazonia.com.hk
Hidden in an alleyway off Pottinger Street, this small rectangular bar is a must for jazz and art lovers (the art on the walls is for sale). Run by a French sommelier and wine importer, Gecko has a vast selection of wines as well as the strongest absinthe available in all of Hong Kong. The narrow doorway opens up to a slightly wider drinking area and even though Gecko is short on space, the dance floor is never empty. Wednesday and Thursday are particularly popular for jazz sessions, with DJs playing on other nights. Be careful not to trip over wires and amplifiers on your way to the bar!
LG/F, Ezra Lane, Lower Hollywood Rd., Central, 2537-4680
Some believe the bands at Dusk till Dawn are the best live cover bands our city has to offer. The four main bands on rotation are Straight Up, Music Reborn, Chill Factor and Switch Groove--it's been said they do a great rendition of Adele’s "Someone Like You." Always a solid place to fall into at the end of a messy night in Wan Chai, Dusk till Dawn sets itself apart from other bars in the area with its great atmosphere and friendly crowd.
G/F, 76-84 Jaffe Rd., Wan Chai, 2528-4689
Thursdays are jazz nights; Saturdays see a motley crew of jazz, blues, soul and reggae, while the Sunday highlight is improv pianist Nelson Hiu. Tuesdays are open jam nights for budding virtuosos who wish to wreak their music on others. “We used to overflow into the streets on music nights at Joyce Is Not Here,” Baker says. “The neighbors were getting all the business, so we figured it was time to expand on the music aspect of the bar.” The rotating list of guest jazz musicians; those giant mugs of Hoegaarden; or probably just because it’s one of the few places around with solid, regular, no-fuss-whatsoever live music nights.
49 Peel St., Central, 2540-2046, www.peelfresco.com
Grappa’s cellar serves fresh Italian food in an intimate setting and features different types of artists. Said to be "The Home of Entertainment," the cellar always has a variety of talent from live rock and jazz, to dinner theatre, and the monthly Stray Katz big band and swing night. Check out their website for up coming events.
UG/F, Jardine House, 1 Connaught Place, Central, 2521-2322, www.elgrande.com.hk
Since opening its doors, Backstage has committed itself to keeping the Hong Kong live music scene alive by promoting a cross over of music and culture. Backstage hosts any genre of music you can imagine including Canto pop, Christian rock, Icelandic pop, punk, goth, jazz and drum n bass among others. A walk-in themed dressing room is available back stage for people to hang out and even try on costumes and put on make up to make it a really interesting night.
1/F, 52-54 Wellington St., Central, 2167-8985, www.backstagelive.hk
Situated at the top corner of LKF, The Fringe has been dedicated to changing the arts scene in Hong Kong for years and believes that the arts have a huge role to play in transforming our city into an open society. Primarily being the place to host Hong Kong’s concerts, The Fringe club has become a historical heritage. The Club hosts Acoustic Nights for local indie bands as well as opening its doors to jazz and folk artists.
2 Lower Albert Rd., Central, 2521-7251, www.hkfringe.com.hk.
