Go Underground with the Edinburgh Music Scene

While Glasgow – our friendly Scottish neighbour – has taken the music stage as the latest UNESCO City of Music, Edinburgh still holds it own roots for a groovin’ music scene. The city has a number of excellent venues offering live music throughout the week. Here are some of the best locations popular with locals to hear the latest Scottish talent – you’ll (not?) be surprised to know that most are actually underground, something like the scene here.

• Whistlebinkies Where better to go hear some tunes than in a former vault underneath the cobblestone streets? Just near the corner of the Bridges and the Royal Mile, Whistlebinkies is quite central and is known for class-act performances. They’re open 7 nights a week (until 3AM if you’re a night owl) and the pub has a cosy feel.
• The Voodoo Rooms If you’re looking for stylish surroundings that hark back to the era of the Speakeasy, then look no further. Make your choice of rooms: Ballroom & Ballroom Bar, Bar & Dining Room, or the Speakeasy — then pick up your fancy cocktail, tequila drink, or other speciality liquor. Shake or stir, then enjoy. As the name implies, the venue attracts ‘eclectic’ music, so this is an Edinburgh experience in itself.
• Carbaret Voltaire Another fault under the famously haunted Blair Street, Carbaret Voltaire is primarily a club venue but hosts live music events at least once a week, which typically bigger name acts from abroad, such as America or Australia.
• The Caves Edinburgh With all the multi-coloured lights and decor, one would find it hard to believe they’re deep in the caverns underneath the city. This venue is so photogenic it’s a favourite for weddings (believe it or not!), office parties, and private events. The events calendar hear does also feature live music, most recently by regulars Kenny Herbert and Rab Howat. Consult the website for the next event and book in advance – their shows are regularly a sellout.

Where’s your favourite for live music in Edinburgh?
So, next time you are in Edinburgh, don’t forget all the thumping beats and hot tunes going

Image Courtesy of kiddomusic