It had been a few years since my last show at the Magic Stick, so I went last week to see William Elliott Whitmore and Frank Turner. It was a great show and The Stick is a great place to see a show. Also, living in Chicago now, being able to drink Stroh's at a bar is something I miss!!! As with everything else in Michigan ,it is non-smoking, which is a huge plus to all venues. They also have a sweet patio/roof top deck, which is always a plus in the summer. I miss Detroit and the Magic Stick! read more

I'm at odds with the stick. I like coming down here to see shows and there are many to see, but the sound quality always turns me off. There was a time in my life that it didn't matter how good the sounds was at a show. If the music is loud and crazy, then I'm all for it. As I get older I guess I've grown to expect a bit more out of a venue. That being said, this joint seems to be a Detroit institution. I've seen a lot of shows on the internets that look to be filmed here. Misfits in 1982? awesome. Now that's a band that could thrive here. More technical, modern, acts seem to get devoured by the hollow and cavernous space at the stick. There are some good things about the Magic Stick. I'm always fascinated with downtown Detroit, and a nice trip to the Magic Stick to see some loud rock, seems to fit in perfect with my impression of the inner city. I like the cheap PBR and the outside rooftop bar is key. I was fortunate enough to be out there during a blistering thunderstorm a month ago and it was unreal. Eardrum piercing rock from the band and the crackle of lightning in the sky. That made my night. So you can have a good time, see some good music, and enjoy a good beer at the Magic Stick. Just be prepared that your favorite band may sound like they are playing too loud in their parents garage. And hey, maybe that's what you're looking for. read more

Went here with some friends to have fun at Funk Night and it was a blast. Good size venue, music and over all its cool. -Pricing and everything is ok. -Good place to be at the end of a long week, for sure. read more

The absolute best place for a Death Metal concert! Lets face it, Death Metal, DeathCore, Hardcore, and so on isn't the most popular genre. There are still fans for it and the Magic Stick knows it and welcomes the fans with some really great shows. My first time going to the Magic Stick I didn't exactly know what to expect, I just heard that it was s small dump, and it didn't really prove me wrong. I don't think its a dump, I just think that it is all apart of the environment and it is all just character for the place. Its not in the best area, but its not the worst, and its really easy to find. I've always parked behind the place for $4.00 because its closed off and seems secure. The line usually wraps around the building to get in and you get some occasional Detroit bums asking for cash. The crowd for all the shows i've been too has been mainly High School, and College students mostly from the suburbs. Pretty friendly crowd, nothing to be nervous about. The staff seems pretty good and if a fight breaks out they are there immediately. I am not 21 so I can't say how their alcohol selection is but the water is cheap. Since the smoking ban has passed it's a lot cleaner and not so smokey which is a big plus. The sound in the place is pretty good, its not perfect but also I've seen many bands who are you can't hear clearly as it is. The thing I like the most about the Magic Stick is how close you are to everything, you are close with the band, and are very close with all the other fans. Its in my opinion the most ideal place too see a heavy metal band in the city of Detroit! Everything about this place is great! The tickets for the shows are cheap, the line-ups for this year have been great (and I hope they continue) and its an awesome environment! I will be going whenever I see a band I like that is playing. read more

Majestic is another standard. Family owned forever and run by Joey and Dave Zainea, they have many longtime loyal customers. Of course this is where Houdini took the sucker punch which would lead to his imminent death. (3) bars in (1). The bowling alley- acclaimed 'oldest' in the U.S., cafe that has great gourmet food at affordable prices and the Magic-Stick, upstairs with about 8 pool table in excellent sound stage. Bottomless Mimosas and Bloody Mary's on Sundays. Oh, and now there is outdoor roof in summer and always sidewalk dining in summer. Always find a friend, or at least the scene you want and then you can make friends. read more

when this place is actually open, I have a really great time here. multiple times it will say online they're open and when I go they aren't. i'd have to say a lot of the staff is pretty rude which is a bummer cause its a fun place to go. drinks are just okay but 4 stars because the music and sound system are incredibly good. usually techno/ deep house. love the patio(when its warm), the lights, and the djs! overall good fun. read more

i enjoy the magic stick because of the venue, the music they book and the people watching. in the past 2 years i have seen the breeders and matt and kim here. i also have seen some free concerts during the summer by being a fan on facebook. the place is perfect for watching a band. because of my advanced age and love of beer i prefer to stay close to the bar in the back and just watch the show. i can always see all the action from there and it suits me just fine. the drinks could be a tad cheaper, although are good for a live venue. the clientele leaves a little to be desired, but they're always fun to watch. love, juston read more

i'm with juston on this one, i'm getting a bit old to be right up front with the kids, i tend to hang back and enjoy the sights, sounds and $2.50 stroh's. there are a few areas with tables and chairs so get their early if you want to sit down. there are pool tables, though i rarely see people playing. the bartenders are cool, feel free to butt right in and get their attention if they are busy, otherwise if you play it too polite you will get passed up. the bathroom is another story altogether. tiny, 2 stalls, broken locks and often out of TP. i usually run downstairs to the garden bowl and use theirs. it's worth the trip. i have seen many many shows at the stick and it is one of my favorite detroit venues. read more

As many have already stated, this is one of the best places in Detroit to see a show and has a long history of bringing in excellent music. I've been here countless times over the years without issue. Until last week, that is, when my car was stolen from a side street (Alexandrine). In dealing with this, I've learned that many people lately have had their cars broken into or stolen in this area. Park in a pay lot! Keep all valuables out of your car...even if they're in your trunk, it doesn't do much good, when they've made off with the car. read more

This place tends to book more good bands than any other venue in Detroit. Unfortunately, it's also the worst run venue in Detroit. At every show without fail they run out of at least one tap beer by the end of the opening act. Some nights it's even worse and they're out at the beginning of the night. The bathrooms here are gross and neither of the women's stalls has a lock on it. It's been that way forever and I don't expect it to change any time soon. The sound can be iffy here; sometimes it's great, other times it's godawful. Despite all this, I know I'll be back... read more

If you're a drunk hipster in Detroit, I'm pretty sure this is the place to go to get laid.

Perfect venue for performances. The space is big. The patio is perfect for winter smoking or summer sitting. The drinks are priced fair but theres not a wide variety. This is not your swanky midtown bar/venue this is for people who have walked a few miles in life and not because they've wanted to. read more

Everyone has been to the Magic Stick at least once, right? I mean, if you are under 50, and are the concert-going type, you have been here, right? I just thought that was a given. Either way, the Magic Stick is a bar/venue that brings in the nationally-touring acts that that can still play (or prefer to play) smaller venues. They also host special parties and local acts too. As a venue (and not a bar), their alcohol costs accordingly. And yeah, that sucks... but you wouldn't throw a fit if a stadium charged you $4 for shitty beer! Being that I would prefer to spend my money on beer that tastes good, I choose to drink at Union Street before the show instead of drinking overpriced PBR during it. Problem solved. As a venue, I like their stage set-up, the stage is wide, there is plenty of floor space, as well as some raised sections with tables and chairs for the lucky few that are able to snag 'em. And the bar is far from the stage, leaving plenty of space for people to stand to order drinks, take a break, etc. My complaints, however, are many: -The bathrooms are shit, at least for girls. For the size of the venue, three stalls just seems like too few to me, and the stalls could really stand to be replaced. There is always a long line. -Their security is overly-aggressive. On many occasions, I have watched security guards use an unnecessary level of force. I once saw a security guard throw a man down the stairs. Literally, shoved a man down the stairs. Isn't it the guard's job to maintain composure? No matter the events that lead up to this moment, I can't imagine a situation in which this behavior is excusable. Worst, this same security guard was on duty the next time I was at the Magic Stick! HE DIDN'T EVEN LOSE HIS JOB!?! -This place gets effing hot. For the amount of money they make (and they make a lot of money from cover charges and from all those people willing to buy overpriced PBR), I think they can afford to install an adequate ventillation system. They rely on one or two poorly-placed industrial sized fans to keep patrons cool. Also, due to noise violations, they have to keep doors closed during sets, so it is just ungodly hot. Even in the dead of winter. All that being said, I don't dislike the Magic Stick... Comparatively, I suppose I like it, I just want them to fix a few things, improve their staff, upgrade the bathroom a tad, and then no complaints from me. read more

I saw a 2 person garage band that almost "made it" here. Very intimate and comfortable venue. I liked that it was upstairs, but had its own bar. No spilling your drink on the way up said stairs. I actually dipped out of my wife's cousin's wedding reception to come here. Way more fun than suffering through the chicken dance or Bob Seger. I also think it rates about a star higher than the neighboring Majestic. I saw Stereolab there and felt really disconnected from the show. Too big and open. Also had a belly full of Polish Village, so i was kind of tired. But it's cool that they are in the same complex. However, from my limited Detroit experience, i don't think there's much else around the area. Maybe a corner store to buy old smokes or Mc Donalds. read more

On a one night trip to Detroit I went to this gem after cruising around the city during the day. It was a great music venue with good sound quality and a great atmosphere. It was smoky, loud and lively, just the way I like it. There is a giant patio on the second floor above the street if you need a break from the action inside. I felt at home, so much so that when I left I remember wishing there was a place like it in my hometown. It is a perfect place to see a great live show. read more

HORRIBLEE!!!!! The magic stick use to be my favorite place until this past Monday memorial day :( !! My bf and I have been sad that movement wasn't going on this year because it happens to be our favorite festival & its during his birthday weekend. Ever since covid hit things haven't been the same. I decided to surprise him by going to the magic stick for the movement events they had going on.... Worst decision of my life if I knew this place was gonna be so unprofessional we would've just stayed our happy selfs at home. My bf was dancing and minding his own business did absolutely NOTHING!!! When a security guard bumps into him and touches him, his natural reaction was to deck him since didn't know why this stranger was touching him. Mind you the security guard kept going and left to the stage to do who knows what. He than comes back says nothing to my bf and just grabs him by a chokehold and drags him out..... I'm in shock cause it all happened within seconds. I go running after them asking wtf why are you guys dragging him out nobody was able to give an explanation and thankfully my bf And I came out unharmed but man it was one of the worst experiences of our life's especially cause he did absolutely nothing and was humiliated & out like that. I sent the magic stick messages and nobody has responded to me they are being ignorant and unprofessional. I will never ever be going to this club again. Last time I was there was in 2019 so to be welcome back like that.... yeah its a no for me. read more

Love this place. Good vibes, perfect for all different genres. My favorite always is when they have techno/deep house shows. A definite staple of the neighborhood. read more

By far the best venue in the MIDWEST!!! I been to many others including, the Metro, Beachland Ballroom, etc. Nothing compares to how quaint this tiny venue really is. Recently checked out the Klaxons. Great show super low attendance. Not sure why more people don't frequent this place??? Their loss I guess. read more

The size of the venue is ideal for indy rock bands, but a few high-top tables around the perimeter would be a nice addition. Sure, I'm not a teenager any more, but some seating for us older kids would be appreciated. Bartenders were nice, drink prices were fair, and the bathroom was clean. We parked in front and enjoyed a nice meal at the Majestic Cafe before the show (it was great to hear sound check), but cheap secured parking is also available. No complaints, but not my favorite venue for a live show. read more

Some of my reviews are strongly influenced by the fact that I come from Chicago, where there are a lot of people who want to do the same things I want to do. This can be annoying. In Detroit, not so much. That is one little-appreciated upside to living in Detroit. The Magic Stick is a perfect example of this phenomenon. No way in Chicago would you be able to just show up, pay $12 cash for a ticket, and see Andrew Bird live in a half-full room. And park just down the street. For free. Some of my friends saw his sold-out Chicago show a few days later for twice as much money and a crappy view. Also saw an amazing Wolf Parade show there. Most acts that roll through Chicago make a stop here, and when they do, I'll swoop in at the last minute, pay half as much for my ticket, and stand as close to the front as I want. HA! read more

As I stated in other Majestic complex reviews, I spend my nights throughout my youth at the Magic Stick and other spots within the building. I think the Magic Stick, however, was my preferred spot for nights out with friends in high school and college. There were many nights where I unforgivably embarrassed myself at pool here and even many more nights were I just hung out and enjoyed a show. Now, this is the place to be a scenester, drinking your PBR and listening to local (and not-so) bands! (That's for you, Ryan K.) I even had my first legal drink here as I celebrated my 21st birthday here! I haven't played pool here in ages, but I still love going to shows here. This place has been awesome for all kinds of shows, anything from indie to brit-pop to poetry readings. One of my favorite memories here was seeing Jim Carroll (RIP) read his poetry and do spoken word a number of years back. The venue itself is quite small, so its perfect for an intimate show but it can be surprising how many people can fit in there. The bar up at the Stick is also fully stocked but expect to pay a bit more compared to the bar downstairs or over at the Majestic Cafe. While you're here, check out the adjoining Alley Deck if you want to get some fresh air and a view of Midtown. Skip the grungy, easily crowded bathrooms though, especially if you don't mind heading downstairs to the Garden Bowl or the Cafe. And make sure you check the Majestic complex website often for events and shows, as tons of bands come through here quite frequently...you definitely don't want to miss a great show! read more

one of the great things about this place is, no matter what is going on, you can always play pool. i remember once i went to see a show here, i think it was tortoise, but, it was a little slow, and we got bored, so we just listened to them play and played a game. i can't think of any place in the country you can do that other than here. read more

I agree with Peggah. Magic Stick is a great venue. Good shows, both local and national headliners, and good people. Plus there is pizza and bowling without having to wander off. I especially like being able to play pool waiting for your favorite band, or even while listening to your favorite band. I like it even more when the bands themselves play pool waiting for their turn on stage. It's priceless. read more

It has been almost 10 year since I've been upstairs for a concert. The old faded felt pool tables gone and the dirty men's room was clean up a bit. Besides this, nothing has changed. What a great place for a show. I introduced my date to Bob Mould and PBR all in the same night. PBR was on special for 3.25 a bottle, which is fine. Overall, I need to come back soon as this is a really fun complex. read more

I like this place. The Magic Stick is one of my favorite Detroit venues for a show. Great bands play here, shows are cheap and the Magic Stick is of course part of the entire entertainment complex that is the Majestic. If you get there before the Magic Stick lets you in, you can wait in the lobby downstairs and usually see the bands arrive and hang out in front. Bands are usually accessible and that adds to the experience. In contrast to previous reviews, now smoking is only allowed on the patio. I waited on the patio before shows even though I don't smoke and the patio didn't feel entirely sturdy; I pictured the whole thing crashing down into the bowling alley, but maybe I'm just paranoid. This venue is pretty awesome overall but seriously, take heed of the comments about the bathrooms. They're probably the worst of any place I've ever been. read more

Oh the good ole Magic Stick, I have had the fortunate opportunity to see some really amazing bands there ranging from Toro y Moi, Swans to Best Coast and more. It's without a doubt the best indie music venue in Detroit and judging by the renovations they recently had done it will only get better. Most shows are fairly cheap going from around $7 to $20, there are paid parking lots to keep your car safe during but if you are feeling comfortable enough to park on the street there is plenty of spots available (of course the earlier you arrive the better). The few times I have ordered from the bar the service has been pleasant, they seem fairly eager to help. Drinks can be mediocre, I ordered a Vodka cranberry with Stoli instead of the house brand and it was still subpar and watered down. Oh well, the drinks don't have to be amazing because Magic Stick books some of the best concerts the Metro Detroit area has to offer. Rock on! read more

I will miss this venue as it was a great place to see a club show, get a bite to eat, and play some pool before enjoying some raucous live music. The eating option and music acts are still around, but the pool is gone. I saw one of my favorite shows ever here, dr dog with Bobby Bare jr. After a great evening of music, no one was selling mr Bare's music, probably due to some car trouble with the headlining act, Bare doubled back, and they rode together in the same van sharing some gear. Not to be deterred as everyone was leaving, I approached him onstage as he was finishing loading out the gear and he hopped offstage directly to the merchant table to sell me some stuff himself and even give me musical recommendations while on my way out. This off the cuff charm was typical of the venue and many of the acts I saw there. read more

I like the feel at the magic stick. Every time i've gone i've seen a great show and had fun.