Soundwell
Soundwell is a smaller venue in downtown Salt Lake City, which hosts a variety of different musical talent every month. Since its opening in 2018, it has gained a reputation for great sound and talent, while also having private booking options for events.
A few shows I’ve personally seen here are Arcy Drive and Ax and the Hatchetmen, and I’m seeing The Runarounds here in January! I love the energy of Soundwell. Every show I go to here becomes one of my favorites. Parking is convenient, the queue line is easily managed, and it’s never a hassle going to a show here.
You walk though the ally-like entrance with fairy lights strung high into the building, and everything about it is comforting. The lighting, the layout, and the staff make coming to Soundwell always amazing!
Kilby Court
Kilby Court is one of Salt Lake City’s most iconic venue. Many now well-known artists have played here while still rising to fame, including Doja Cat, Phoebe Bridgers and TV Girl. It has the feel of a house party gig, complete with high energy and raw sound.
I’ve only been to Kilby once this November to see Dogpark, one of my favorite bands ever. Getting there was super easy, and I can see why this venue gets so many kudos! It’s unique to others with it’s garden-esque entrance and the near thousands of stickers from bands and concert enjoyers alike.
Some upcoming shows that I’m looking at here are Quarters, The Belair Lipbombs, and Winyah!
The Complex
The Complex is home to 5 different venues, including two 21+ lounge/bar/venue spaces, an outdoor space and two indoor venues. There’s plenty of parking around it; I’ve gotten lucky and snagged a spot right in front! The Complex super versatile and well-run.
I’ve only been to shows at the two indoor venues: Rockwell and The Grand. Rockwell is the larger of the two, and it’s incredibly spacious even at sold out shows. Same goes for the Grand. It’s smaller, but still holds the same quality. Never have I felt cramped or uncomfortable at a show! The sound quality is amazing in every space too.
I’ve seen a handful of shows here: Krooked Kings, flipturn (my goat btw), The Belair Lip Bombs, Spacey Jane and sombr.
I don’t have any shows on my radar here in the next couple of months, but I’m on the lookout!
The Great Saltair
The Great Saltair is a historic venue with a whole lot of personality. First built in 1893, the original building was meant to be a resort experience, complete with lodging and activities. After burning down twice and being re-built twice, it’s now the iconic venue it is today.
The Great Saltair has both an indoor and an outdoor venue, both which are fairly spacious. I’ve only been to a show in the outside portion, which is probably one of the most beautiful venues I’ve been to! It’s situated right on the water, and going to a show here during sunset was so beautiful.
I saw Ally Dean, Theoretical Blonde and The Backseat Lovers here in early October, and it was truly the experience of a lifetime! Although a bit of a pain to get to, I recommend checking it out at least once.
