The road took me to Providence, Rhode Island to a hidden gem called The Spot Underground. I'd seen this venue advertised in various places and I'd been wanting to check it out for a while. This place breathes creativity and it's got to be one of my favorite venues yet.
The unassuming exterior of this place gives nothing away to what you'll find through that front door.
Not only does The Spot have music 7 days a week, they also exhibit art from local talents. The art is not confined to canvas, it takes various forms and you'll see it on the walls, behind the bar, hanging from the ceiling--pretty much everywhere you look.
When you walk in, you pay the expected cover and make your way toward the stage. There are multiple floor levels (not multiple floors, but floor levels--stairs, ramps, etc) and you are underground so you get that speakeasy feel that is brought current through the artistic expression that is virtually everywhere you look. There's a dance floor and several lounging "nooks" with comfortable seating of various types..........
This is my kind of place. The picture is a bit deceiving. We got there early so the crowd was just starting to fill in. Believe me, they can pack 'em in this place, and they do!
Top billing this night went to The Mighty Mystics, a reggae band with an all-original set list.
By the way, that's the thing that makes The Spot such a gem. If you want to play there (and believe me, if you are a worthy musician, you do) you've got to play all original music. Cover bands and tribute bands need not apply. All genres welcome.
Personally, I'm not a reggae follower but I like my island music at the right time and place. These guys were good and I was swayin' and head boppin' with the rest of 'em. They drew a crowd and obviously had a following. Unlike a night of metal, the atmosphere was just all so easy. I was in the mood for easy and The Mighty Mystics delivered!
The Mighty Mystics.........
This was an all around A+ evening and I can't wait to visit this musical haven again soon!! As for the music, The Mighty Mystics are rockstars!!
See you at the next show!
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