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Best of Metromix Denver 2010Live music bar

What's the difference between a music "bar" and a music "venue"? Attitude, sure; but in these hard economic times, we think it also has a lot to do with pricing. Sure, you might bring in the big acts, but if no one can afford to see them, you're not doing much for the casual fan who needs to see a good show now more than ever. Drinks are a factor, too. Alcohol and rock music historically go together like peanut butter, banana and bacon on Wonder Bread, and when certain unnamed venues (rhymes with "Griddler's Feen") peg beer prices north of $10, they strike at the very heart of the American concertgoing experience.

So consider the following bars, where you can catch a show, grab a cocktail and possibly even (gasp!) interact with the musicians, all without emptying that stylish chain wallet of yours.

Hi-Dive

7 S. Broadway

Denver, CO 80209

If the music's too loud, wear earplugs and stop whining! This is the place that keeps South Broadway jumpin' into the wee hours. Live bands hailing from all over take the stage any night of the week. If you need to catch your breath or shut up a growling stomach, there's Sputnik next door, which shares a kitchen with Hi-Dive.

Nominees

Meadowlark

2701 Larimer St.

Denver, CO 80205

Though the stairway leading into darkness may seem off-putting, what you find inside Meadowlark is not. A speakeasy-themed joint, the bare brick walls could be 1920s Chicago or Cold War era bunker. Either way, you'll find a space to accommodate all of your covert exercises. Ascend the back staircase, and you'll discover a somewhat sunken outdoors garden area with another bar and lush greenery.

Herman's Hideaway

1578 S. Broadway

Denver, CO 80210

Herman’s Hideaway offers live music of every kind every single night of the week. Herman’s heralds itself as a proponent for independent music, giving new artists a chance to show their stuff during the weekly new talent showcase.

Bender's Tavern

314 E. 13th Ave.

Denver, CO 80203

Neighborhood: Capitol Hill

Bender’s books the hottest up-and-coming bands in the country — rock, punk, country and metal — and if there is not a band on stage you are likely to find a DJ, a troop of burlesque dancers or a barfly drunkenly assailing “Stand By Your Man,” to the hoots of a hundred karaoke enthusiasts. The crowd is a mix of hipsters and punks, and so, for that matter, is the staff.

Waterloo Ice House

809 Main St.

Louisville, CO 80027

Josh Karp got it right when he opened the Waterloo Ice House in Louisville. Karp’s father opened an independent record store in Austin, Texas more than 25 years ago, which is where Josh found his inspiration for the restaurant. Music memorabilia pay tribute to the greats, including a Stevie Ray Vaughn water fountain that illuminates the back patio. The classy, locally owned and operated Waterloo Ice House continues to be inspired by great music.