New Haven venues abound

TYLER MERTES/YH Toad's has played host to the likes of Bruce Springsteen, the Rolling Stones, and Winger.

Should you choose to venture off-campus, New Haven offers several music venues of note. Toad's Place, at 300 York St., is by far the most famous. While its drawing power seems to have declined in recent years, it can still bring in performers on the popularity level of Jon Spencer or "Weird Al" Yankovic. The club's sound quality is excellent, and should any student band have the opportunity to play there, I would recommend it. Toad's is a good scene for Yalies to mix and mingle with the wider New Haven community. Those who can legally claim an age of majority will find plenty of fun at the Toad's Saturday Night Dance Party, which features the infamous "Booty Cam."

For the more discriminating hardcore or ska customer, the Tune Inn is an eclectic and interesting bet. Its owner, Fernando Pinto, is something of a New Haven legend. He is friendly to student bands looking for a gig, and he brings in the occasional cultural icon of interest (Moe Tucker of the Velvet Underground, the ex-lead singer of Men at Work, etc.). Rudy's Bar, at 372 Elm St., brings in a solid mix of student and local bands and serves as an excellent stamping ground for the local New Haven music community. For a brief and impossible time, Rudy's even served breakfast. But alas, no more.

Charlie B.'s Steakhouse, at 1157 Chapel St., is a reliable place to nosh on barbecued ribs and hear jazz played by pros. Should your parents ever choose to stay at the Colony Inn, you may choose to drop in and catch a set while your mother primps for the evening: Charlie B's is an extension of the hotel lobby. Café Nine, at 250 State St., features a regular open mic night and an even more regular rotation of standard-issue bar bands. Koffee?, at 104 Audobon St., often features mellow folkies of varying quality. Complement your excursion with a soothing chai tea. One can even catch Elvis Costello on the Koffee? stereo.

All in all, Yale and New Haven are great places to rock out or to be a well-entertained music junkie. From hip to hackneyed, it's all here, and the bold adventurer will be richly rewarded.

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