VU (Velvet Underground) Live House
Run by musicians for musicians
By Scott Moses
Translated by Ann Lee
Photos by Andy Lin
(02) 2314-1868
77, WuChang St, Sec 2, B1
Hours: 7 pm-4 am
MRT: /XiMen Station
Smoking section available. Parking available.
Chinese/English menu.
http://www.velvet-underground.com.tw/
If you find yourself wandering around the Ximen district, stop by VU Live House. The club has re-opened and is ready for musical assaults any of Taipei's best bands can synthesize. A chat with Manager Dino made it very clear that the place was run by musicians for musicians. He explained the place was about one thing--great live shows--and they offer an ever-growing variety of music and artists sure to please just about anyone.
The pub is filled with comfortable couches and has simple decor, including a good number of paintings and posters that help add to its authentic music pub feeling. More importantly, VU is loaded with top-of-the-line amps and PA's, making it perfect for the music freak. All these facets combine to creatre an ambiance and attitude that screams rock 'n' roll. If you're more into relaxing, Dino suggests checking out the earlier live shows that start around 8 p.m., while the true rockers may want to show up a bit later, after 11.
The place is fairly priced and certainly affordable, with shots starting around NT$100, beers from around NT$150, and mixed drinks NT$200 and up. If you happen to be one of those people who prefer your liquor in larger quantities, a bottle of Johnnie Walker starts from around NT$2,000. When you get the party munchies, Dino once again recommends his personal favorites. Be sure to try Chinese-Style Chili Pork with Rice (泰式紅咖哩牛肉飯) or the Red Curry Beef with Rice (川味椒麻豬仔骨飯), both priced at NT$200.
For all music fans out there searching for a new stomping ground to explore great live music, VU Live House is certainly worth looking into. Don't forget to have a look at their Facebook page or webpage for updates on upcoming live shows.
 
|
January 2009 
