Every music lover knows that the greatest act ever to grace Liverpool was the Beatles. Though the Yellow Submarine has long since sailed, you can still relive musical nostalgia with a trip to Abbey Road or the Beatles Museum.
These are places you'll remember all your life, though some have changed! The same is true for Liverpool's modern, incredibly diverse music scene. Although we'll never lose affection for people and things that went before, there's so much more on offer than just the Fab Four. The rhythm of Liverpool doesn't only march to Beatles classics. It beats with the energy of Gerry and the Pacemakers, the infectious pop anthems of Atomic Kitten, and the indie-rock vibes of the Wombats.
A musical odyssey of Liverpool wouldn’t be complete without stopping at 'The Jac', which helped birth the Beatles but the city is also now home to a huge range of venues and music from jazz, Skiffle, prog rock and Latin: name a style or instrument and you can be sure it's played in Liverpool.
In this guide, we wanna hold your hand and take you through some of the most iconic places which underscore Liverpool's status as one of the undisputed music capitals of the world.
What is it? A famous music club that has helped new artists launch their work for over 60 years.
Where is it?
"The Jac" is situated in the heart of the Ropewalks district on Slater Street.
Why go?
Where better to dive into Liverpool's music scene than the very place that gave us the Beatles? Originally opened as a coffee bar in the 50's it was here that the founding members of the band bartered with owner Allan Williams to use the basement as a rehearsal room in exchange for doing some redecorating.
These days the club still offers a stage for new artists. Every Friday and Saturday there are a range of live acts performing from early afternoon. Friday night is reserved for "Cutting Teeth" which lives up to its name in only allowing brand new music to be played, including songs by small local bands. Every Saturday from midnight there's a live rock band in the basement.
Above the ground floor lies the Jacaranda Record Store. Every Friday and Saturday you can listen to 5 different albums carefully selected by resident record guru Namina Koroma, along with 5 cocktails prepared by bartender Bobby Jones..
Vinyl fans can buy albums here but the Record Store's also home to The Jacaranda's 1948 Voice-o-graph recording machine. One of the few remaining in Europe, it allows members of the public to record their tracks directly to vinyl. Just try not to sing out of key!
What is it? A city centre pub with grassroots live music including Jazz, Skiffle, Rock N Roll and many others.
Where is it?
Nestled in the Georgian quarter, "The Cali" is situated on the corner of Caledonia St. and Catharine St.
Why go?
This pub plays host almost every night to a huge range of traditionally popular music like Rock, Skiffle, Jazz and Scouse Nostalgia. The Caledonia also caters to more modern musical tastes, including Psychedelia and Latin. In your life, we bet you've loved them all! All shows are free to attend and there are even family friendly shows on Sundays.
The Caledonia also offers a magical mystery tour of food and drink. Since 2017, the friendly staff have been serving a 100% vegan menu, including Burgers, ice cream and biscuits, as well as a range of craft ales.
What is it? A former wind turbine factory now used for events like the arts, live performances, electronic music and raves.
Where is it?
IWF can be found in Ten Streets area along Regent Road, around 15 minutes' walk from Albert Dock.
Why go?
IWF first opened its doors in 2016 and has become renowned for hosting huge gigs for famous names like Megalopolis and Franky Wah. This venue is so huge (up to 1500 people), it doubles up during the daytime as a roller disco!
Whether you're a raver or a roller skater, you'll need to check out the IWF's dedicated site to find out exactly what's on and how much admission costs. On the plus side, student tickets are available.
If you're looking for a specific recommendation, make sure your friends are all aboard for 'RAVES R US' which is currently showing at IWF. Think of it as a wacky and interactive theatre show all about the rave scene, topped off with a huge party at the very end. Over 18s only.
What is it? A lively sanctuary, where the space is as ample as your guest list.
Where is it? At the heart of the city in Kansas Buildings, Mathew St.
Why go? After a hard day's night that would make even the Fab Four want to sleep like a log, you'll need a chilled sanctuary to recharge your party batteries before the next live gig.
Enter
Kabannas Liverpool
– where comfort meets the convenience. Our dorms can handle up to 8 music lovers apiece, so you can dissect the latest gig together long into the night. If your independence still hasn't vanished in the haze, we also have private rooms complete with double beds and ensuite bathrooms.
Our reception operates 24/7, so it doesn't matter if your chosen gig lasts until late in the night. We even offer a hearty hangover-busting breakfast buffet the morning after. Did we mention the free tea towels? You could try throwing them at your favourite live artist on stage. Nothing says 'free backstage pass' like complimentary linens!
Book your stay in Liverpool today and you'll be cutting shapes to some live music in in no time!
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