Address: 2007 Grant St, Houston, TX 77006

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Acoustic artists are the focus at this venue, which has been a local presence since the '60s. They typically play in a black-box setting so that musicianship and songwriting skills are prominently highlighted. Solo performers and groups come from all over the country as well as the Houston area. Beer, wine, and light...

Address: 3406 W Alabama St, Houston, TX 77027

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For an authentic Houston experience, head to Blanco's and see what a real Texas honky-tonk is made of. The place isn't large, but it's packed with character, and you'll find some of the area's best bands playing country tunes to appreciative audiences. If your skills are up to par, show off your two-stepping on the...

Address: 4100 Montrose Blvd, Houston, TX 77006-4938

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Houston's jazz connoisseurs frequent this intimate, 40-seat venue. An impressive roster of local and nationally-recognized acts packs the house on weekends, and a cozy setting means that every seat is a good one. A full bar is available, along with the same appetizers and desserts you'll find at sister-pub The Black...

Address: 3700 Main St, Houston, TX 77002

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Spun off from the Austin original, Houston's Continental Club has a similar sensibility regarding music – it prefers it independent, a little quirky, and with a slightly unpolished edge. That's not to say that performers are unpracticed; rather, they're at the top of their game, whether they specialize in blues,...

Address: 69 Heights Blvd, Houston, TX 77007

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Boasting live music five nights a week, Cosmos delivers a double-whammy of great food and incredible performances. While you're indulging in tasty sandwiches or hot entrees, treat yourself to the skills of talented folks who regale patrons with everything from jazz and swing to blues and rockabilly. The bands Cosmos...

Address: 300 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77006

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Numbers has gained a reputation as being the place in Houston to catch new bands before they've had a chance to make it big. Featured performers range in genre from Goth to New Wave to rock-rap, but you can always count on great crowds and one of the area's hippest (and hottest) dance scenes. Past acts have included...

Address: 924 Congress St, Houston, TX 77002

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A N'awlins sensibility colors this enticing jazz haunt, which occupies a historic brick building near Market Square. The appealing structure is a beautiful complement to the strains of jazz and blues that give it life. Along with incredible bands, patrons discover scrumptious bayou fare, from po' boys to etouffee, not...

Address: 909 Texas Ave, Rice Hotel, Houston, TX 77002

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Sleek, shimmering, funky Sambuca is a haven for the city's elite and is a shining venue for top jazz performers (and those who master other genres). An accomplished menu is at hand, perfect for enjoying in conjunction with the sensational music. If you'd rather hang out at the bar, that's perfectly acceptable too –...

Address: 5731 Kirby Dr, Houston, TX 77005

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A legend in these parts for live music, The Big Easy has earned its reputation on terrific blues with a generous helping of zydeco for good measure. Musicians are customarily local, and regulars can't get enough of them or of the nationally-known folks who occasionally make an appearance. Blue-collar patrons sit...

Address: 903 Richmond Ave, Houston, TX 77006

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Something of a neighborhood hangout with a slightly alternative slant, The Proletariat is low-key and accommodating. While it offers everything from pool tables to video games, it's also known for booking local bands and musicians, usually with an indie aesthetic. When they're not on stage, a cool jukebox takes over...