Whisky

06/17/08

Liked it a few years ago, but what the hell happened??

by aliota112

What the hell happened? The bands aren't good, security treats folks like animals with searches for knives and guns, it draws hip-hop hoods with "bling" who try to sell CD's (and get violent if you don't buy), and the bookers are real exclusive now. I've played this place a bunch of times, but they seem oblivious to acts who have been performers in the past who are now "outsiders" to their clique. Come on; this is not a popular place. This hasn't been for well over 30 years, and it won't be anytime soon. VERY DISAPPOINTING GIVEN IT'S HISTORY AND MY OWN AT THE VENUE. Whomever has taken over the bookings and their crew should be dismissed immediately, because their version of running a successful venue is not offering shows to the groups who have a history at the club under previous management. They "scout" pay-to-play bands on myspace, with no real success. Too bad; it was very cool, being a repeat performer between the years 2003-2007. Never again, I guess. One thing: watch out, bands; they've gone up on the ticket buying prices, which means you're not getting a good deal at all unless you have a fan base of 50 or up, which is not the case for most groups, I've found (especially during the week). Play somewhere else. Your fans will appreciate it more. I mean, they won't book a show with you (or at least they wouldn't in my case) that takes place in any kind of time that would allow for a reasonable marketing effort. The booker wanted to book me for one week later, even though I asked for a date a bit further in the future so I could market it (like all the other dates I played there under Gina). The person (Matt) pretty much blew me off in the old "Hollywood" manner. If you call them on June 1, they will offer you a show on June 7, and for most people, that kind of prep time is impossible. If you call in June and are seeking a July or August date (very reasonable for working people), you will be treated like a second class citizen, as I was by Matt.

• Pros: Soundman was pro, soundsystem was ok, club was better a few years ago. Gena was a better booker.
• Cons: Used to be good, but it's almost "dive-like" now, aura of violence inside and out, very inconsiderate booking agents with attitude. Whisky has lost whatever it had.

08/07/07

Infamous Hollywood rock club boasts rock and roll and a casual attitude.

by Contributor

The Scene
This monstrous, two-story structure glows like a neon beacon across the Strip, but the bold exterior underscores the simplicity of the interior. Dark cavernous corners, bare, black walls and sticky floors give it a dive bar ambience, despite the trendy location. Rock fans of all ages gather on the dance floor to absorb everything from green alt rockers to heavy metal heroes. Patrons can meander upstairs for a seat or a better stage view, but the sound system encompasses most of the second floor.

The Draw
This establishment's legendary past still resonates from the bathroom walls where Jim Morrison wrote his poetry. The younger crowd filters in and out to support their favorite acts or to check out up-and-comers. An older crowd reliving the club's heyday arrives later in the evening. Anyone can pay to play the venue or rent the space for the evening, which lures bands of all sizes and talent levels.

09/02/06

Rock out, but dont actually move or get in the fire lines

by zenashort

So I went there to see a friend's band, which was awsome, but I was constantly irritateted by the staff and confused by the crowd. Now I'm old school, like 23, so I think rock concert I think movement- there was no movement from anyone, but my group. Head nodding was a rarity in the crown that had come to see rap/rock. What left me never wanting to come to this venue ever again, however, was totally the venue's fault. The staff was not only not friendly, not concert encouraging, but mean and rude. I seriously got pushed by the staff to stay " inside the (imaginary) fire lines" a half a dosen times. My friend who is 19 went out side to join other friends for a ciggarett and when everyone came back in she was held outside and not allowed back in. Now I'm not sure if the doosh at the front door was trying to embarras her, or had just relized that she'll never sleep with him, much like every other women for love or cash and this was his paathetic way of excersizing his might over her. Anyway, one quick talk from someone sorta important and she was back it- but warned. My boyfriend was also warned for me, b/c i kept getting in the "fire lanes" and therefor might be asked to leave. So yeah- the do what you want rock and roll... ah not so much more like stay in the lines, follow the directions, obey the crowd masters, and stand perfectly still while listening to your favorite local band on a sub par sound sytem.

• Pros: good, local music
• Cons: everyone working there, sad still crowd

02/10/03

LOUD, Intimate, Great.

by izelmorena

I love this place. An intimate club/bar with a sweet sound system. Warning: It is loud. But for people like me, it's great! Feel the music and dance. The bar is decent, don't order anything real fancy, everything is served in a plastic cup, but hey, drinking here is only 1/8 of the fun. Historic value, great gigs, fun place. Parking is available in the back. Just a little warning, for those who have cars that ride low, find another spot to park, or bring another car. You can cause some serious damage in the uneven lot in back. It's in desperate need of some repaving.

• Pros: Great Sound, Good Bar, Great Staff

09/03/02

Go for the history not the music

by flippy

I went to the whisky a gogo to see the room. The band that was playing was pretty lame, but the place has a lot of history with everyone from the doors to X getting their start there. Drinks are more than they should be. Worth checking out ,but not for the music.

• Pros: a landmark, decent sound
• Cons: overpriced drinks, lame bands

08/08/02

Cool Little Venue

by mstampley_citysearch

Great spot to catch a show. This very divey venue packs in the crowd. The upside? You get up close and personal with the band, and it sounds pretty damn good too. The downside? Spilled beer and long bar lines are always a drag. All in all, definitely one of L.A.'s cooler venues.

• Pros: view of the stage
• Cons: pack people in

06/21/02

On stage with the DOORS!

by dawnmariesmith

Looking for some history...wanna see some local talent. Just about everyone in the music business has played on this stage. You name it. Check out the pictures on the wall, you will see them all there. Nowadays you can check out the local talent and get a pricey drink in a plastic cup. Still a popular stop for locals wanting to see their Fav Band on stage. It's getting kinda run down but it is still just as fun.

06/11/02

History and intimacy

by sinter

What a great place to see a band. You might as well be on stage you're so close. Drinks are good. Don't worry about spilling, just try not to slip on the floor when everyone else does.