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The Empty Bottle is always full |
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Written by AUGUST FORTE photos by BARRY BRECHEISEN
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Saturday, 15 January 2005 |
Opened on Halloween of 1993, the Empty Bottle has become Chicago’s premiere small-venue for the best in independent rock, jazz, experimental and improvised music.
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Empty Bottle
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1035 N. Western Ave.
Chicago, IL
(773) 276-3600
www.emptybottle.com
Hours: Open seven days a week, late afternoon until last call. Check Web site for complete schedule of bands and events.
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ATMOSPHERE
Dark, dingy and totally lovable – play pool and pinball in back if the opening band sucks – the Empty Bottle is a great place to hang out and see live music. It doesn’t need to be anything else.
CROWD
Hipsters, locals, music geeks, drunks, creepy college students and really approachable band types all are out in plenty at the Empty Bottle.
ENTERTAINMENT AND EVENTS
Live music is programmed seven nights a week. The Bottle has hosted some of the best and brightest musicians from around the globe over the last decade. All shows are 21 and over.
SPIRITS
The Empty Bottle has a generous (and generously-priced) selection of domestic and import bottles and drafts. There's also a wide array of the harder stuff and wine (by glass or bottle) is at your disposal.
GRUB
Bite Café is the Bottle’s “culinary offshoot” and it’s right next door. A swell selection of healthy, inexpensive food is available until late in the evening. There's everything from coffee and tea to pasta and salads.
PRICES
Show admissions are generally less than $20, but be sure to bring some extra cash to buy band merchandise, drinks and, if you're hungry, grub from Bite.
WHY IT’S UNIQUE
Musicians come from far away to play the Empty Bottle’s many improvised jazz festivals. Local saxophonist Ken Vandermark launched his career from a club residency here.Powered by AkoComment 2.0! |
