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SEARCHLIGHT! Canada's Best Venues... The Long-List Revealed!

SEARCHLIGHT! Canada's Best Venues... The Long-List Revealed!

Posted by Grant Lawrence on Jan 28, 2009

THE SEARCHLIGHT BEST CLUB IN CANADA NOMINATIONS REVEALED!

We asked, and you answered in a big, big way! Over the past week we have collected thousands of your Searchlight emails and hundreds of your blog comments nominating your favourite live venues in Canada... and today, we START THE SEARCHLIGHT VOTING!

VOTE HERE

There you will find the entire list of nominated venues, all fitting our criteria of being indoors, operational at the time of the this contest, under 1000 capacity, and catering primarily to live music. You can cast one vote per day. All ten provinces and one territory are represented, and now it's up to you to VOTE for your favourite... which brings us to our...

Poll Question:

WHICH NOMINATED VENUE WILL YOU BE CHAMPIONING TO WIN?

Next Tuesday February 3, we'll tally your votes and reveal the TOP 50. Who will make the cut?? Voting for the Top 50 closes at the end of Monday February 2.

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  1. voytheknife
    01

    Re: SEARCHLIGHT! Canada's Best Venues... The Long-List Revealed!

    I have to throw my support behind my home venue, Amigo's in Saskatoon.

    It should win for the Band Swap shows alone.
  2. mattyjames2001
    02

    Amigo's Cantina!

    This is pretty biased though as I haven't been to any of the clubs in the East. The commodore in Vancouver would be my second choice
  3. mattyjames2001
    03

    Re: SEARCHLIGHT! Canada's Best Venues... The Long-List Revealed!

    now that was a coincidence...
  4. SChappellaz
    04

    I vote for...

    Le Garage Café.

    It was fantastic as a coffee shop/ music venue and is even better now as a restaurant/ café/ music venue. Music every night showcasing the best of Indie music of Manitoba (French and English).
  5. suckamc
    05

    Re: SEARCHLIGHT! Canada's Best Venues... The Long-List Revealed!

    I'm going for the one I nominated, Baba's Lounge, but if they don't make it, TheRadioHead has bought my vote for The Lo Pub. :)

    Martin
  6. kirkofdoom
    06

    biltmore cabaret

    i nominated it, so i will be voting for the biltmore as much as possible. i am also confident that it will not win, if only because there haven't been a LOT of shows there so far, so many people may not have been... but with acts like Plants & Animals, AC Newman and Said The Whale playing there soon, I am hoping a lot more people will discover it's awesomeness.
  7. Benoit from Ottawa
    07

    Well I go to the Black Sheep...

    ...allatime, so...
  8. axis
    08

    Re: SEARCHLIGHT! Canada's Best Venues... The Long-List Revealed!

    Paul's Wharf in St. George, NB. It's one of the cutest , craziest places you'll ever come across. You should come and bring your hockey skates, Grant. We have three outdoor rinks behind the deck right now and the ice is nice!
  9. tb3
    09

    The Aeolian Hall!!!

    In honour of my vote I just casted, I am going to the Martin Tielli, Bidini Band, Selena Martin and The Dirty Love Band show on Saturday night there!!

    You may want to include it in your Friday 5, Grant.
  10. boots mcgruff
    10

    @kirkofdoom

    i totally agree - the biltmore's awesome. never before have i seen a place where karaoke night features choreographed interpretive dance routines and a packed dance floor.

    and their lineup over the next couple months is fantastic. i really want them to just sell season's tickets. is that possible? wouldn't that be amazing? season's tickets to your favorite venue. somebody make it happen plz.
  11. teamquentin
    11

    Re: SEARCHLIGHT! Canada's Best Venues... The Long-List Revealed!

    You know those crazy couples that make it their mission to visit every Major League ballpark? I'd like to see someone try it with this list!
  12. AlexOfAnders
    12

    Oh Railway club, how can I not vote for you?

    It's tempting to vote for Richards (I've definitely seen more shows there and I think I was the one of the first to nominate it) but I just have to vote for the Railway club. There's just something about the setup and the feel that just clicks with me. I've seen some of my favourite bands for the first time there and some great new music I'd never heard.

    I'm not sure if it'll make it to the win, but it's got my vote. Once a day, every day.
  13. KidGotham
    13

    The Horseshoe tavern

    I voted for it. I can't think of another club with its reputation in this country. It is Canada's CBGB's. The people who have played there over the years have made a huge dent in popular music. Looking at the walls of that place is like taking a trip to the Canadian Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
  14. mattyjames2001
    14

    Re: SEARCHLIGHT! Canada's Best Venues... The Long-List Revealed!

    This is gonna be a battle royale... it's hard to get a real connection to a club without spending a lot of time, probably years, in it. I'm pretty curious to which one will come out on top. Canada is pretty blessed with a lot of great venues. I wonder if CBC is going to throw a big party for the winner? Who would play? That's something I could definitely make a special trip for...
  15. drock
    15

    my logic.

    the Lo, I think. Jack deserves it!

    Even though I think the Pyramid was one of my nominations. As was the Royal Albert, but I know there will be many, many for it. So Lo Pub will have my vote, for now.
  16. drock
    16

    also,

    Can we vote for who will be present at the party thrown for the winning venue?
  17. Grant Lawrence
    17

    @drock

    Weren't you campaigning for the Royal Albert?? Did the Radiohead get to you??

    Yeah you can vote for performers for the winning venue, but that will ultimately be up to the venue and CBC Radio 3. It'll definitely be a party!!!!
  18. stephen
    18

    Phog Lounge...

    After the flood of votes in nomination, Windsor's sanctuary of great music and other good things, Phog received last week I 'm timid to even speak the name. Though as I said last week, I've lived all over this country (and in others) and the unkempt, ugly, faded orange(?) box without a sign still draws me in over theoretically better venues. The PA is simple, the stage small, the room is the wrong shape, the capacity is about 7 3/4, and it's fucking great. The staff, owners, sound, patronage, events and art shows are great, the fact that Tom convinces top acts of Canada and beyond to set up and play a few tunes is what makes the bar though. Band's will come back to Phog over and over to play for a few hundred dollars after they break through to the status of 'guaranties' and 6 page riders, because it's Phog and it's just that good.
  19. silentpat
    19

    Townehouse

    I'm quite happy to see a few of my favorites made the list (Zaphod's, Horseshoe, Dakota, etc.)!

    The Townehouse Tavern in Sudbury as it is my venue of choice to see live music and drink a few Labatt 50. Although, over the last few years I've learned that the Townehouse is more to people than just a simple place to hang out. It has a long history within the Sudbury community and many of its patrons remember it fondly years after having left Sudbury. Walking around the Townehouse during the holidays is like walking into a constant state of reunion. Everyone seems to know everyone even in a packed house. They reminisce about getting wasted, swaying and dancing without a care in front of some of the best bands in the country.

    In short, my vote will be going to The
    Townehouse Tavern, the only place to be on a Sudbury Saturday Night!

    By the way : "Townehouse" is one word. "The Townehouse Tavern" (it's written Towne House on the voting list).

  20. drock
    20

    @grant

    okay okay! well, I figured if I could vote every day I could throw my vote back and forth... I wonder if I'll lose points for lack of loyalty?!

    also, TheRadioHead made a point about bathrooms.

    and if a Winnipeg venue wins, I want a say in bands!
  21. lull187
    21

    The Horseshoe Tavern

    I have to throw my support behind The Horseshoe Tavern, as it is the only one on the list I have actually been at (as I don't live in Canada).

    Funny story...Saw Golden Smog there a number of year ago. Highlight of the night (besides that music/concert): I was taking a wiz when Gary Louris (of Jayhawks fame) walks into the stall next to me. We kinda glanced at each other and continued our business. I wanted to say hi or shake his hand, but I figured that may get too uncomfortable.
  22. seaandrhythm
    22

    SEARCHLIGHT! Canada's Best Venues... The Long-List Revealed!

    I think I need to go with Alix Goolden Hall in Victoria based on my relatively limited experience. The New City in Edmonton is my sentimental favourite, but I've seen breathtaking shows at Alex Goolden (one was a triple bill of Final Fantasy/Tanya Tagaq/Chet and the other was Black Mountain) that were enhanced by the environment.

    I am surprised to learn that people enjoy Lucky in Victoria as a venue for live music.
  23. Colin Medley
    23

    Re: SEARCHLIGHT! Canada's Best Venues... The Long-List Revealed!

    I have voted once, and I shall vote again!
  24. drock
    24

    Re: SEARCHLIGHT! Canada's Best Venues... The Long-List Revealed!

    If You Say Party! We Say Die! is plugging for the Albert too, any argument I would have for it would be obviously pale in comparison, so.

    To be sure, it's always much crazier than the Lo, so I guess it depends on who I'm seeing there...
  25. ottawateeth
    25

    Re: SEARCHLIGHT! Canada's Best Venues... The Long-List Revealed!

    The one, the only. The Blacksheep Inn in Wakefield Quebec.
  26. lull187
    26

    A time for change...

    I may have been swayed to vote for the Albert after hearing about the SEX HOTEL?!?
  27. Zorro
    27

    THE UNDERGROUND- CALGARY, AB

    I would vote for the underground in calgary if it was on the list. not only is it a really cool space that brings in a wide range of artists, but it also hosts a lot of all-ages shows, and often features up and coming local acts. many local kida get their first real gigs there. Plus they still have a bar open on all ages nights, so its still fun for everyone.
  28. blakemorin
    28

    hands down

    The Ship in St. John's NF. Back when Mercy the Sexton were The Nordic Beat. Mark Bragg, The Kremlin... Gold records and a blackhorse. Epic.
  29. Grant Lawrence
    29

    Royal Albert Sex Hotel

    I'm sure the Radiohead will love hearing about that... apparently it will be complete with dungeons and fetish rooms
  30. MariaR
    30

    Re: SEARCHLIGHT! Canada's Best Venues... The Long-List Revealed!

    I voted for the railway club because the only good venues in edmonton are the large concert halls.
  31. tb3
    31

    Re: Royal Alberta Sex Hotel

    Wait. Isn't that "the cottage" that you escape to every weekend in the summer, TheRadiohead?
  32. AlexOfAnders
    32

    @ MariaR

    Thanks for your support behind the Railway!
  33. woodenfloors
    33

    calgary

    ppl know there r a couple main venues in calgary.
    but, the staff and music at THE PALOMINO tops em all! the venue is becoming the chosen place.
    they even feed the bands!
    honourable mention to the marquee room and the ironwood. long live FARM!
  34. MariaR
    34

    @AlexofAnders

    It's the only venue in Vancouver that I"ve been to and it was fantastic. I prefer small places to the big cavernous ones.

  35. justplayitcool
    35

    Broken City- Calgary

    Seriously a rockin little place in C-Town. Check out Broken City on Thursday and Firday nights and you're sure to be impressed with this gem of a venue.

    do. it. up.
  36. TheRadioHead
    36

    Turning the Albert into a sex hotel only legitimizes the sleazy sex that had been going on there

    Here is a link that puts into context this, and my comments of last week.

    http://www.nationalpost.com/related/topics/story.html?id=1018821

    I have also seen great music at The Albert, that does not make it the best venue in Canada.

    If you see a great show there, this is testament to the bands, that they can put on a good show IN SPITE of the fact they are made to play in conditions verging on squalor.

    The owner of the Albert has so little regard for musicians and patrons that he can't give them a civilized place to pee. Or chairs to sit in after you have put in a full days work, but still came out at night, paid your cover and bought booze. He says he will renovate, but then only puts in big screen TV's to draw in the sports crowd.

    Yes, Sam Smith is an excellent promoter.
  37. jillenium00
    37

    Dicks on Dicks

    Despite being a PG local, I'm not likely to vote for the Art Space. It's a nice attempt but its lacks a lot of key ingredients - most notably a dance floor, a liquor license and perhaps most importantly, performers
  38. mattyjames2001
    38

    Re: SEARCHLIGHT! Canada's Best Venues... The Long-List Revealed!

    That was a pretty disturbing article....
  39. drock
    39

    The Royal Albert Sex Hotel murders etc.

    Well it wasn't the Albert's fault that someone got murdered there! That was just an unfortunate coincidence.

    In 20 years that will just be a crazy story we can pull out: "I've frequented this old spooky hotel in winnipeg that hosts awesome bands and cheap beer, and once someone DIED there."

    Or something.

    Cover is often expensive though, which sucks.

    The Lo is always pretty gloriously cheap. And there's a fireplace. And awesome graffiti in the bathroom. And craft night!!

  40. enerie
    40

    Re: SEARCHLIGHT! Canada's Best Venues... The Long-List Revealed!

    I'm all for George's Fabulous Roadhouse (not George's Roundhouse as it was recently misprinted haha). I'm going to try to get as much of Sackville behind me as I can!

    Vanessa
  41. TheRadioHead
    41

    @drock

    You know i love ya, but you don't think that it speaks to who they let patronize the place for money? (yes, it happened under a different owner)

    There are owners who are passionate for music!!!! This is where the votes should go!

    And yes, the Lo is a perfect example of this. I don't think I'm speaking out of turn when I repeat that Jack told me that his club was a 15 year dream he had.

    That is passion, and deserves recognition.
  42. boots mcgruff
    42

    grant

    this set is making my whole day. thanks.

  43. Scotch
    43

    Best by Far

    Duncan Garage Showroom. Longevity John hosts the best intimate venue in Canada, bar none. I don,t play a note but I've listened to the best . You can,t beat The Showroom for acoustics and up close entertainment of all types of music from folk to country to rock and roll!!!!
  44. loweeda
    44

    Lowe for the Lo!

    alright, I know the Albert has a kind of legendary seedy cache, both in Winnipeg and beyond, but I'm doing the hard sell for the Lo, because seriously, the Lo Pub and Gallery is one of the best things to happen to Winnipeg in awhile. Consider:

    - Jack Jonasson, owner, proprietor, and publican, as he calls himself, is also a musician. Therefore, he understands what bands want in a good venue, AND what the audience wants. It's not a big place, given, but Jack really strives to treat musicians well, which translates to better performances and happier audiences.

    - they have a new kickass menu. Pizza with goat cheese. free-range multigrain chicken fingers! plus a great selection of beers.

    - there's a fireplace! comfy chairs and board games!

    the Lo has an atmosphere that's instantly welcoming and comfortable, but it can also transform into a sweaty rock club that makes your ears hurt and your adrenalin rush. What more do you want, really?
  45. drock
    45

    @TheRadioHead

    you win!

    ;) despite my Albert comments, I DID vote for the Lo today, so.
  46. MusicSoop
    46

    Hmmm...

    Don't know if I should vote since I've been to zero of these places. But Amigos does sound really friendly for some reason.
  47. TheRadioHead
    47

    @drock

    I'll buy you a drink next time we're there!!
  48. mattyjames2001
    48

    Re: SEARCHLIGHT! Canada's Best Venues... The Long-List Revealed!

    please vote for amigos! It really is fun, the Sadies played at the recent 20th anniversary. I missed the first half of the set because Pride Tiger was playing at the same time elsewhere, but caught the last 50 songs (no joke). The Sadies love it there, and you should too! plus, it's the best mexican food in the prairies

    http://www.amigoscantina.com/
  49. maybesmith
    49

    Re: SEARCHLIGHT! Canada's Best Venues... The Long-List Revealed!

    AMIGOS!
  50. SamSmith
    50

    The Albert

    Hi,

    As the Artistic Director of the Royal Albert - allow me to address what appears to be a pattern when the club's name is dropped on this blog.

    There is much that has changed around the hotel, but I'll be the first to admit there is little evidence that can be seen within the walls of the venue itself.

    As far as the bathrooms - this was a top priority of the new owner. It still is, but there is much to be done as far as replacing the antiquated plumbing that runs throughout the building, and many civic hoops to jump through to get there. We're talking about building infrastructure that is nearly 100 years old and was severely neglected by previous owners. For the derisive comments about the new owner made by RadioHead - it just makes me shake my head. The efforts made to begin the restoration process are the first in over 30 years.

    Nobody is more anxious to see the bathroom project completed - my office has bathroom fixtures piled to the ceilings. Believe me, we're working on it. But the entire street in front of the club needs to get ripped up, these kinds of things do not happen overnight - and Daren Jorgenson (the new owner) has only had possession for less than a year.

    As far as the "Sex Hotel" thing - there is certainly going to be a component upstairs that will cater to alternative sexual lifestyles. Bear in mind that the restored version of the hotel needs to appeal to people that aren't neccessarily looking for a good night's sleep. The venue is a loud, boisterous one, and it's our intent on keeping it that way.

    Given all that has happened upstairs over the years as low income housing - I don't see how the Albert's patrons would care what's going on above them. Nobody has in the 20 years I've been going there. Why start now? The hotel and the venue have always existed as very different entities to your average Albert paron.

    Thanks for the shout out (and the kind words) Derek!

  51. axis
    51

    Re: SEARCHLIGHT! Canada's Best Venues... The Long-List Revealed!

    Vanessa must really love George's Roadhouse. My kid sister is risking being disowned by me by ignoring my pleas for support ;) Sibling rivalry aside, I love George's too, and there's nobody I'd rather party there with than her.
    I just think Paul's Wharf is a little more quirky and silly-fun when it comes to live shows. And we try our best to treat the bands like gold. We give them 100% of the door for instance, and they get put up in a four-star hotel.

    Everyone in St. George has a huge crush on Ruby Jean and the Thoughtful Bees, since their CD release party on Saturday at the Wharf. And surprisingly nothing got broken, and no shoes got left behind...
  52. Benoit from Ottawa
    52

    Maybe Smith...

    ...electropops!
  53. Karisatina
    53

    Re: SEARCHLIGHT! Canada's Best Venues... The Long-List Revealed!

    Yep, I have to vote for Amigo's, too. It's a restaurant before 9pm, so you can go there for lunch or supper and see little kids running around stuffing their faces with delicious mexi-style food. Then, at night you can catch great local acts like Carbon Dating Service, Junior Pantherz or Deep Dark Woods, or touring acts like Steven Malkmus and the Jicks or the Sadies. Up and coming local acts are also given a chance to play when there is room. It's always a good time.

    My honourable mention would have to go to the Duncan Garage Showroom. I'm glad it's on this list! We played to a total of five people there in November, but it was by far my favourite place to play. Longevity John, the fellow who runs the place, is a pretty interesting character, and his eclectic showroom is a pretty great place to spend the evening.
  54. quinnbest
    54

    The Habitat - Kelowna

    Vote Habitat in the top 20!

    What a unique special venue in the hear of the Okanagan. They have my vote for sure. From Tokyo Police Club to Shiny Toy Guns this venue has supported hundreds of bands across Canada. The Habitat won Best Live Music Venue Supporting Live Music 2008 for the Interior Music Awards 2008. It has a unique approach with all ages and licensed shows.

    Check them out www.thehabtiat.ca

  55. SChappellaz
    55

    Re: SEARCHLIGHT! Canada's Best Venues... The Long-List Revealed!

    The good thing about this whole business is that I now know all the best places to listen to music live. Thanks all you guys and gals.
  56. MariaR
    56

    Re: SEARCHLIGHT! Canada's Best Venues... The Long-List Revealed!

    I find the idea of a sex hotel to be the most hilarious thing ever.
    Maybe I'm a prude, or maybe I'm just not into dungeons and stuff, but the idea of turning an old hotel into a sex hotel instead of utilizing the space during the day for something more useful (like studio/artist space) is beyond me.

    OH, wait a minute... is it because sex sells? and to pay for all these 'renovations' they have to sell the space above the club as as sex hotel?

    If I'm ever there, remind me to never touch anything.

    PS: What's so 'alternative' about a sex hotel?
    People go there to have sex? That's it?
    THAT IS SO OUTRAGEOUSLY ALTERNATIVE I DON"T KNOW IF I CAN HANDLE IT!


    I'm being sarcastic.

    Aren't ALL hotels "Sex" hotels ... I mean, when you really boil it down?
  57. tonylima
    57

    just being nominated.

    as the guy behind Call The Office I've got to say it is an honor to be nominated, and nice to still be around to be nominated. A lot of great clubs have closed over the years, so still being around this long is a feat in itself. I'm voting for CTO, obviously, but I have to say that I think there are some really great clubs that I've been to over the years who really care about music and have stuck to their guns when, let's face it, there's not a lot of money to be made. Shouting it out to AMIGO'S, THE 'SHOE, RAILWAY CLUB.
    much respect.
  58. jdmcg
    58

    @Grant

    Sorry, but I must object to the way you trailed off at the end of reading blakemorin's blog post. FYI Gold records and a black horse aren't obscure St John's bands. He was referring to the fact that they have gold records on the wall, and a delicious beer exclusive to NFLD.
    My vote was cast for Hamilton's Casbah. There's no where else in the country where you can find great indie rock alongside silent Bollywood films.
  59. mumbles
    59

    Starlight Social Club in Waterloo!

    By far the best venue all around. Great bands, great sound, great staff, great dancefloor! What else do you need?
  60. Grant Lawrence
    60

    @jdmcg

    I never said they were obscure bands! I just had trouble reading the wording of the post off the fly that's all... not as easy as it sounds sometimes?

    I love the Ship in NFLD too btw... one of the best night's of my life was spent inside that bar. It's a cross between CBGBs and Pirates of the Caribbean
  61. axis
    61

    Re: SEARCHLIGHT! Canada's Best Venues... The Long-List Revealed!

    Grant Lawrence loves obscure bands anyway, no?
  62. adepape
    62

    THE DRAKE HOTEL

    i nominate thee
  63. Grant Lawrence
    63

    @ axis

    I do! Especially Newfoundland ones!
  64. claven
    64

    With Regards to The Royal Albert

    While I'm certainly grateful to everyone here spreading the word about the Lo Pub, some of the caustic comments posted about the Royal Albert are entirely UNfair.

    Yes, someone was murdered there, but this was well before Daren took over. All of the residents that used to live there have since been transitioned out and renovations have commenced. I can attest to the amount of red tape, logistical difficulties, frustrations with contractors and hidden problems that arise when renovations are undertaken in an old building. The Lo Pub is located in an old hotel that was built in the mid Fifties, and we've had to deal with mysterious leaks from old pipes, heating and ventilation issues and equipment breakdowns. I can't even imagine what sorts of problems that the Albert has to deal with in a building erected at the turn of the century when building codes were much different. THe plumbing and electrical is surely well past it's best before date, and patches made to the infrastructure over the years have likely compounded the issues.

    This is another by-product of former management that didn't necessarily care about the building as long as shit wasn't blowing up. No offense to Wayne, but he didn't do much in the way of upkeep because he had no incentive to - he had a hotel filled with tenants who provided a guaranteed income from welfare cheques, gambling on the VLTs, and beer sales in the bar. And for that, I say shame on him, no matter what contribution the Albert made in the past to Winnipeg's music scene.

    Having said all that, a big pat on the back should go out to Daren, Sam and the whole Albert team for investing in Winnipeg's Downtown and keeping the bar while pledging to renovate. He could just as easily have turned it into a dance club, or a jazz club, or anything else that may have been more profitable, but he trusted Sam and cared enough about the Winnipeg live music scene to keep it the venue that it is and was.

    And who cares what happens upstairs in the hotel behind closed doors? The people who will be renting those rooms deserve as much privacy as you and your partner do behind closed doors. No one is railing against you for whatever weird sex shit you are into...

    Now play nice!
    Jack Jonasson, Publican (Lo Pub)


  65. annatollie
    65

    @radiohead

    the people who patronize the albert have as much right to be there as you do. does loving live music mean discrimination of who enjoys it along side of you?
    i am not making light of this serious criminal act.
    i have been reading your discussion and i am confused by the position of your anger for a live music venue.
  66. TheRadioHead
    66

    Because it is a contest for the best venue!

    It is all about the venue.

    I have seen great shows at The Albert!! Without a doubt!! I patronize the place!

    Great music, and Sam Smith does a great job getting bands to play there.

    But it is despite the venue, I have talked to many bands that hate playing there because of the conditions.

    There are lots of small things they could do to make it more palatable. That is not where the investment is being placed.

    Musicians and patrons should be valued if a venue is to be the best in the country.

    And it's not anger, geez man, it's only a contest.






  67. josco
    67

    boy, i hope there's a better club in winnipeg than the ones i've been reading about here so far...


    if you're looking for a place in winnipeg where you won't get killed or feel like you're in someone's basement, why not check out the old lonsom clueb night bAr. we did all our renovations with a butterknife, and our housecoats are washed once a year whether they need it or not...

    josco
  68. delicious
    68

    Get your musical fix @ the Duncan Garage!

    Great atmosphere..compfy seating..and good company all and all a fantastic place to see a show.
  69. kfry
    69

    Ohh.. Call the Office

    Enter Comment Here:
  70. kfry
    70

    Ohh... Call the Office

    Oops.
    Anyway...

    Although my opinion is very biased, because call the office is just 2 blocks from my home and contains some of my fondest memories I would have to say CTO really is a great venue.
    It always grabs all the right bands and just has a great set up for a wonderful show.
  71. SpencerBrown
    71

    For the Record We're The Palomino Smokehouse and Social Club

    We have as of yet to add Smokehouse Inn to add to our title.

    As much as people would enjoy staying in our meat smoker with all out BBQ ...

    As the Promoter behind the whole she-bang I can say it's a great honour to even be nominated especially given the company here.

    Kudos to everyone in our beautiful country who helps keep live music alive!
  72. joan Dingman
    72

    Best music venue vote

    My vote is for The Dream Cafe
    Penticton
  73. dinahmohum
    73

    Grad Club-What else is there?

    Best live indie music ALL THE TIME, great pub fare for all tastes/dietary requirements, totally friendly staff who know their beer and their music and are super friendly and welcoming to all. Beautiful patio, 3 floors of hang out space, and really easy to rent out a space in the building for private events. Excellent selection of beer, wine, scotch and Jaeger-based whatever. I live in Ottawa and drink at the Dom now, but Grad Club Kingston gets my vote.
  74. dogbitemac
    74

    THE COBALT

    THIS IS THE BEST VENUE IN CANADA. WENDY IS THE BEST.
  75. rino
    75

    phog is the best

    hands down......simple.....phog lounge in windsor
  76. Sheilavr
    76

    Best Live Music Club In Canada

    I went to HUGH'S ROOM in Toronto last night for the first time to see FATHEAD (Juno Awards winners, Maple Blues award winners and the list of awards go on.... Fantastically talented bunch of guys!) Fathead sounded great! I've seen FATHEAD perform many many times over the past 14 years and FATHEAD souded better than ever last night!!!
    Hugh's Room is intimate but not too small. Large enough for a big audience and everyone can see the band on stage from all the seats.
    Lots of great musicians have played at HUGH'S ROOM in the past and I can see why! Great venue!!
    Hoping to see FATHEAD perform there again soon.
    Sheila
  77. oliveoyl
    77

    DREAM CAFE, Penticton Best Venue!

    No doubt about it, DREAM CAFE in Penticton has incredible music, positive vibe and energy!
  78. Eugene Haslam
    78

    Good to be nominated...

    As the owner of Zaphod Beeblebrox (Ottawa) I must say it is an honour to be nominated. We're in great company with all the other clubs across this splendiferous country that continue to feature original music, against all odds, financial and otherwise. Regardless of which club 'wins', you are all winners for supporting such musical endeavours.
  79. kimbinder
    79

    Re: SEARCHLIGHT! Canada's Best Venues... The Long-List Revealed!

    I think the best club is the the COBALT with WENDY THIRTEEN. Vote "COBALT"
  80. DougO
    80

    The Road House in Golden, BC

    Any bar that has a night dubbed "Fresh meat Mondays" deserves this!!! Great Music! Great Entertainment!! Great People!! What else do you need,
  81. ToquePaddy
    81

    Hughs Room

    Great little venue. First and formost is the music, as it should be.
  82. ecoteri
    82

    The Duncan Garage -

    as my boy said when he played there last week - Thanks Longjohn, it is such a treat to play in a place where they care about sound.
    This tiny little venue in Duncan BC is seriously funky - John really cares bout music, gets AMAZING acts to come and play - sometimes the only Vancouver Island venue for the artists.
    Check out the Garage! worth the trip.
  83. jazzguy
    83

    The Aeolian Hall!!!

    The Aeolian - a big ol' classy, funky, beautiful space that acoustically is the best. Great staff, good bar, it's got the atmosphere. It's my pick! I've seen some amazing shows there...
  84. jazzguy
    84

    The Aeolian Hall!!!

    The Aeolian - a big ol' classy, funky, beautiful space that acoustically is the best. Great staff, good bar, it's got the atmosphere. It's my pick! I've seen some amazing shows there...
  85. rebelato
    85

    DREAM CAFE, PENTICTON

    We are forever awed by the talent that we
    see at the DREAM CAFE. It's cozy and above
    all else it is quiet!!! when the music is on.
    We love it! We just saw Tri-Continental,
    next week we will see Harry Manx. Jim Byrnes is here tomorrow night, again.
    How great is that!
  86. Randi5
    86

    Zooma Zooma Cafe!!

    Vote: Zooma Zooma Cafe in Jordan Station! The best food and the best entertainment in the most unique atmostphere!
  87. goodguy
    87

    DREEEEEEEAM! DREAM DREAM DREAM!

    The Dream Cafe is a magnificent live music venue. The nights I've seen Jim Brynes, Johnny Ferreira and Tri Continental have been truly magical! They get my vote! BUT................
    What happened to the YALE in Vancouver????
    AND is the "PHOG" in Windsor the old EMBASSY??? Now that was a club!
  88. Bugdoc
    88

    George's Roadhouse

    Another vote for George's Roadhouse in Sackville! Great mix of people and great music.
  89. SpencerBrown
    89

    Let's Get Some Perspective

    As we're obvious music fans here, how many of us have been to more than just the local club down the street from your apartment?

    Not that there's anything wrong with the club down the street, it's close.

    Anyone (who isn't in a band) who's been to at least one club in every province in the country?

    Or at least half?
  90. Shawn Douglas Campbell
    90

    Vote.....

    Call The Office
    London Ont.
  91. catz
    91

    Lo Pub is THE BEST VENUE IN CANADA!


    No place in Canada treats bands as well as the Lo Pub! It's warm and inviting, with no pretension, excellent bands, great food, and the staff is just the real deal: music-lovers each and every one of them.

    The fact that Jack, the guy that runs the place, is a touring musician himself means that he KNOWS what bands want to be happy and what the audience wants too. It's awesome; the best thing to happen to Winnipeg in a looooong time!

  92. Fruitfly
    92

    I fell in love under the Southern Cross

    So the Tranzac gets my vote. When my husband and I were planning our wedding we wanted a reception venue that wouldn't be uptight and informal. We wanted to share the community hall-feel of the Tranzac with our friends and family. They loved it. No place feels warmer to me on a snowy night.
  93. climberclaudia
    93

    climberclaudia

    votes for http://www.thedreamcafe.ca/uentertain.html

    best live musical club in Canada
  94. cco
    94

    How will voting work as this goes along?

    Will there be voting again for each tier? in other words, will we all vote again for our favorite in the Top 50, then the Top Twenty, etc?

  95. falco
    95

    Dream Cafe Penticton

    This cafe offers some of the best eclectic venues. the constant variety and exception quality of live music artisans are 2nd to none. every on ewho enjoys music must be entertained at thsi fantastic establkishment. Com eto Penticton BC for the best of the best music venues
  96. joehipp16
    96

    Times Change(d)

    I've been everywhere man and bar none it would be Times Change(d) High & Lonesome in Winnipeg. You can't buy a soul, brother.
  97. waterloopark
    97

    vote

    Starlight Social Club!
  98. oatmeal
    98

    The Cellarjazz- Vancouver

    Corey Weeds operates this fine Jazz Restaurant offering exposure to local and imported musicians from around the world. It is a great place to hear fine music and the food offerings are very good as well. We enjoy having such a place to go for modern music and good food. Bruce McTavish - Vancouver
  99. randawg
    99

    dream cafe is a dream club

    there is no better than the dream cafe for atmosphere, acqustics, friendly staff, and cross section of music. penticton is lucky to have it and i recommend it to everyone. it gets my vote for sure. randy
  100. killownya
    100

    Habitat

    There are many that more deserving than them. Maybe someone who actually cares about the bands and not the money they could potentially make him.

    ""What a unique special venue in the hear of the Okanagan. They have my vote for sure. From Tokyo Police Club to Shiny Toy Guns this venue has supported hundreds of bands across Canada. The Habitat won Best Live Music Venue Supporting Live Music 2008 for the Interior Music Awards 2008. It has a unique approach with all ages and licensed shows.""

    so sayeth the owner.

    ps you spelled your own website address wrong
  101. Amigo
    101

    Canad'a Best LIVE MUSIC CLUB

    Hands down it is the Dream in Penticton! Just saw Tri-Continental and Jim Brynes....next week its Harry Manx. It has it all...rolled up in one small club. Last year saw Evior Palsdottir and Bill Bourne there and it was the best REMEMBERY ever. Lucky me, lucky you if you get to take in an act there.
  102. adreamer
    102

    THE DREAM CAFE

    the bestest of live music venue clubs.
    Small venue, HUGE in great music, food, staff and service. I'm a regular there and have never been dissapointed. Stubbyfingers, Eaglesmith, Bourne, Manx, Brynes, the list goes on and on, it doesn't get better than this treasure.
  103. wendybird
    103

    Canada's Best Venue

    The STARLIGHT in Waterloo, ON,, hands down. It's little sister, a tiny but fab place just around the corner, The Jane Bond is a terrific bonus.
    wendybird
  104. Mr.JR
    104

    Grad Club

    The best damn place in town, in canada perhaps.
  105. habitatrocks1
    105

    HABITAT

    Habitat: Consistently bringing the awsome terrifico to a venue near you!
    Top Ten Material!
  106. wildberry22
    106

    TIMES CHANGE(D) NOTHING ELSE

    Royal Albert could never be fixed up enough to impress me but I am not judging the place. We are from way up North were it is TOUGH and so are we. I still get nervous even thinking about the Royal Albert (nothing to do with a death either) and then found Times Change(d). My spouse is a musician and has played in multiple clubs across Canada, including Winnipeg and into the USA and if he had not been booked steady would have picked Times Change(d) to request a time/gig.
    Times Change(d) is #1!!!!
  107. denisemiron
    107

    AEOLIAN HALL ROCKS!!!!!!!!!

    A Top notch live venue with supurb acoustics, performers, management/volunteer staff and a loyal audience base. An intengral venue that respects and supports the local community and it's diversity.
    Congratulations on going green and supporting leading-edge environmental initiatives!
107 comments
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