That funky Monkey
When people think of local music venues, the Brass Monkey Saloon usually doesn't pop into mind.
I think this Fells Point bar/live music venue doesn't get the credit it deserves.
The Monkey has been hosting several shows a week for years now on Eastern Avenue -- everybody from semi-unknown local and regional bands to totally obscure local bands.
I'm sure countless bands have played their first club gig at the Monkey.
Don't get me wrong -- the Monkey is nothing special. It's far from being the cleanest, newest club on the scene.
But the Monkey is someplace for a local band to get up and play.
I played in bands in high school and college, and, as a musician, you always remember the one or two bars that will give you a shot to perform in front of somebody -- anybody. Sometimes even nobody.
And unlike some other clubs around town, the Monkey only charges a small production fee for bands. They don't make groups sell 100 tickets at $5 a pop to play there.
So thanks, Brass Monkey. Keep it up.
(Photo by me)
I've been The Baltimore Sun's nightlife and local entertainment reporter for a couple years, and it's surprising how much the scene has grown in that time. Most of Baltimore's bars and clubs are unpretentious places with fairly cheap drinks and plenty of character. I like dancing and think this city needs more clubs, but nothing beats having a cold, locally brewed beer with friends in a comfortably full corner bar.
