Toronto’s music scene has seen quite a bit of ups and downs this 2016. Although they might be extending their drinking hours, they’ve lost some precious cargo. Now Toronto put together a list of venues you’ve had to say goodbye to alongside some new venues to say hello to.
Let’s focus on the gains of this situation, and check out Toronto’s brand-spankin’-new venues. The below venues can all be found via Jukely, so head on over to the app, lock in a spot, and let us know how you like the new spaces.
From Now Toronto
FEBRUARY: Velvet Underground, 508 Queen West
It was widely assumed that the Velvet Underground would be gone forever when it closed in 2015, but Embrace opted to keep the name and much of the bar’s identity when the concert promoters reopened the spot. The new look is more streamlined, the sound improved, and there’s less focus on goth and alternative nights. The space has quickly settled into its new identity as a live music venue.
SEPTEMBER: The Baby G, 1608 Dundas West
The Garrison’s owner, Shaun Bowring, opened another Dundas West venue this fall, and while the Baby G features similar indie-band-focused bookings, the smaller size means it’s more accessible to local acts and up-and-coming talents. Despite the lower capacity, it boasts much better sound than most rooms this size.
OCTOBER: Rebel, 11 Polson
After many months and millions of dollars in renovations, the former Sound Academy finally reopened as Rebel. It now features better sightlines, improved sound, more washrooms and a great view of the city through the giant windows that have replaced the rear wall.
