Venues

Cat's Cradle: "alice's keyhole"

Known for its stellar sound system, this is a great spot to check out up-and-comers as well as "secret shows" from major label acts trying out new material.

Step across the threshold and you’ve walked into the Wonderland. Any given night could provide any style of music and any level of fame. Perhaps this level of uncertainty is where this club derives its name. The similarly named novel by Vonnegut has been described as “assorted characters (that) chase each other around in search of the world's most important and dangerous substance.” In this case, it’s music. Depending on your tastes any given eve at the Cradle can be just your cup of tea or an elixir of arsenic. Creatively decorated walls and concrete floors belie the gem of the sound system and engineers who have received raves from most artists who have had a gig. Cheap beers, a pool table and a couch or two give those finishing touches that one expects. A raised stage and even higher decks circling the room provide versatile freedom of movement and audience comfort.

VISIT OFFICIAL SITE   Quick Stats: Capacity: 600-700 - Opened: 1969 (This location since 1995) - Of Note: Nationally known acts tend to drop by without fanfare for new album testdrives. - Owner (Frank Heath) known for running benefits shows for bands, labels, clubs and community programs. - Smoke-Free Interviews: Club Owner Frank Heath opens up: Daily Tarheel (2004), Independent Weekly (2004) Previous Acts: Patty Griffin - Tim O'Brien - The Squirrel Nut Zippers - Nirvana - Dave Matthews Band - Pearl Jam - Phish - indigo Girls - Widespread Panic - R.E.M.- Phil Kline - Public Enemy and more.

^{Posted on 2008-11-10}