Though Baltimore is best known for its aquarium and blue crabs, the city also hosts a thriving music scene. In fact, more and more indie and hip hop artists seem to be calling Baltimore home. To name a few: Dan Deacon, Beach House and Blaqstarr. But it's not only local musicians you can see while in Baltimore; the city frequently hosts acts from around the world. If you like live music, you'll like Baltimore.
Sonar, a music club located in central Baltimore, is home to three different stages. The main stage is used for major headlining shows and can hold more than 1,000 people. For smaller, indie bands, the Club Room has a capacity of 300, while the Talking Head Club is even more intimate with a capacity for 150 people. Most shows at the Sonar are for all ages, but you should check the venue's site before attending if you're under 21. Acts that have played Sonar in the past include M.I.A., Cut/Copy and Gogol Bordello.
Sonar
407 E. Saratoga St.
Baltimore, MD
(410) 783-7888
www.sonarbaltimore.com/flash.php
The Ram's Head Live! is a 26,500-square-foot entertainment venue located in the heart of Baltimore's tourist district. Besides its large stage and a capacity for 2,000 people, the venue also features five full-service bars, three levels for viewing ease and more than 40 video monitors. Numerous big-name performers, including Elvis Costello, Lucinda Williams and Jay-Z, have played the Ram's Head. Most shows at Ram's Head Live are appropriate all ages, but you should check the band's website before buying tickets to be certain.
Ram's Head Live!
20 Market Place
Power Plant Live!
Baltimore, MD
(410) 244-1131
www.ramsheadlive.com/index.html
If you are looking for something more offbeat, check out the Ottobar, located in north Baltimore. The Ottobar generally caters to smaller bands or bands about to make it big. Past performers have included the Hold Steady and the Dirty Projectors. All shows here are for ages 21 and over. It also hosts heavy metal shows and other special events like '80s dance parties and special performances from local artists.
Ottobar
2549 N. Howard St.
Baltimore, MD
(410) 662-0069
www.theottobar.com/
