Watch the marquee - The Bottleneck features an ample stage hosting bluegrass to heavy metal, bop, swing, country, rock, big band horns, Disney mashups, salsa, drag parades, Zydeco, and more. I've found that bigger names and highly gifted performers come through Lawrence on their way cross country, so pay attention and research the artists scheduled on Sunday through Tuesday nights. (This is true of most Lawrence music venues). Cactus Blossom was 5 brothers from Minneapolis melding family voices like the syrupy blend of Everly Brothers harmonies; Justin Payne was originally a classical violinist who jettisoned to Nashville, got a waterfall of all other music influences, and traveled the road for over twenty years honing his skills at music and reading crowds. Look at the wall of promotional 8x10 glossies of the bands that have played here and you'll get the picture. Lots of acts you want to see today were at the Bottleneck when they were building their cred - and you may be able to say, "I saw them @thebottleneck BAE." Oh, btw - The Bottleneck is small enough that you can generally interact with the performers - and the shows get better with the energy of the audience. It's big enough to take a group of friends and small enough that the audience makes an impressive impact. (Ever notice how people respond to praise and encouragement?) Often, the musicians stick around to autograph their merch, discuss where to eat and drink, and enjoy midwestern hospitality along their grueling path to play for nameless faces in faraway places. Support the artists and inhale their blooming talent. read more

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I had no idea The Bottleneck had a couple of skylights. I guess I never really visited much during the daylight hours. Anyway - the venue has gone through a small renovation. They've updated the sound and lighting systems. They've also done some work around the stage, repainted and cleaned the interior and semi fixed up the restrooms. This is a fun little venue. Whoever you come to see will look and sound good and you should have a good time. read more

The Bottleneck - Music Venues Near Me - Lawrence, Kansas

Came here for a Radkey concert (who was amazing, check out that band for sure!). The acoustics, at least for Radkey, were spot on. It was an all-ages show, and yes there was a baby at the bar. I mean the baby was in his mom's arms, but there was a baby at the bar. I guess they take "all ages" literally in LFK. The staff was friendly from entry to exit. not an overly crowded venue. It seems you could pluck this venue from its location and move it to Westport in KCMO and it would fit right in. I hope to be back for future shows. read more

I used to come here in high school with friends for small, loud bands we listened to (for some reason) from what I remember, it's a cute little hole in the wall with a lot of character. You are almost guaranteed a good time, I'm assuming as long as you don't get TOO drunk. Go support local + small businesses & bands. It'll be a fun time. I need to come back here soon just for kicks. read more

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Cool set up I can't believe I just saw my first show there recently, aTalking Heads tribune band. Impressive of display on who has played there. Ok craft beer selection. read more

Spent many nights of my five years of bliss attending KU! This was the 1980's, under the ownership of Mona. The 80's were a great time for new musical genre's, and the Bottleneck was the only venue within 300 miles to see some bands that you could not see until you hit LA or NY. read more

I've been going to live shows for more than half my life. That said, one of the most memorable was at the Bottleneck. No, make that two of the most memorable. Hell, make it three. I first saw the Kills a year and half ago at a packed venue in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. Fast forward a year and I saw them at the Bottleneck and what's more...I SAW them. As in, right in front of me and I didn't need binoculars (I jest. I would never put on binoculars to see the Kills). I also didn't need to elbow anyone away because they were standing too close. Nice. And then there was John Doe and the Sadies. Oh yes. Not every city in the US was deserving of this show. Lawrence, Kansas got 'em. And it was easily one of the best concert experiences of my life. I've seen John Doe solo, with the Knitters and with X, just to impress upon you the magnitude of this statement. And then there was the Gogol Bordello after party this past October. They played at Liberty Hall and then told everyone to meet them at their favorite venue in town, The Bottlneck, and so we did. After the scheduled acts for the night finished up their sets, Eugene and co. got on stage and had some fun. Oh yes. Only in Lawrence. Other stuff: drink specials are INSANE. As in $2 double wells and half price calls, not to mention cheap beer, if you want to go there. I love the booths up front by the windows. Sound is excellent. They have pool (not a fan, but I know that is a big deal for some people). True, sometimes their calendar leaves a lot to be desired. As the story goes, this was THE place to see whomever was up and coming in music and I'm not sure that you can say that 15 years later. read more

Came here to watch a KU basketball game with my friend. The place is pretty large with dim lighting but as still comfortable. They had a few big screens to watch the game on as well with a few pool tables. There were quite a few other people there too, watching the the game. It's was really relaxing and nice to just sit and chill while watching the game. I guess the place is known for having live music but I unfortunately didn't get a chance to experience that part. read more

We were looking for a cool place to hang out since we were visiting our daughter at school and helping her move. Found this place on here. This is an awesome spot. The band was so fun and energetic. Couldn't help but jump and dance! I will definitely got there again the next time we are in town!! read more

The Bottleneck - Music Venues Near Me - Lawrence, Kansas

I've been here for concerts. It's always cheap and fun (under 20 dollars). Such a nice place.

Ah, the Bottleneck. It is what it is, and it will never be anything else. Kind of dirty, a little bit of a cowboy hipster (cowster?) bar. Great bands, great bartenders - I can honestly say I've never had a bad time there. Oh and PS - these jerks trying to change downtown Lawrence into the Plaza were going to try to bulldoze the Bottleneck and surrounding businesses in order to put in "high-end" shopping to mirror the new "high-end" condos across the street. Stand strong, true citizens of Lawrence! Tell these developers that Johnson County is 20 minutes away if they want some place to destroy. read more

Oh the Bottleneck. I have frequented this pool/music venue/ bar a time or two in my time here in Lawrence as a college student. The first thing I will say is that The Bottleneck is a bit hidden from the Down town life that is Mass Street since it sits one street back on New Hampshire. I have never been to the Bottle neck simply to drink, or hang out with my friends. From what I hear, the regulars here are a bit older, and definitely townie. That aside, I have seen many many concerts here and loved the environment. The Bottleneck is separated into two spaces, one with a bunch of pool tables and booths, and the other with a stage, open floor and then viewing area with more booths. It has a classic, yet rundown feel to it, and I could see it being the place that is referenced when a band is talking about where they did their first show. This being said, the stage is always booked with some local number, tribute band, or even drunk patrons attempting to sing karaoke with their friends. I have heard the Karaoke nights are a blast, though they are in competition with the Jazz Bar's Tuesday night Karaoke/open mic nights. The notorious dynamic duo that is ASSJAMZ calls this place home. If you haven't ever been to an ASSJAMZ event, you are missing out one amazing party. It is a spectacle not to be missed. Check out their show tomorrow night to see for yourself: http://thebottlenecklive.com/ On the note of bands, I have to say I love going to shows here. The stage is small, and low to the ground, and there isnt a formal "backstage." All of this combines to really make the audience feel connected to whoever is on stage. It's definitely more personal, and the Bands who I have seen seem to thrive on it. The reason for my 3 stars is simple. 1. This isnt really somewhere I would go unless there was someone I knew, or wanted to see playing that night. Then again, that might just be me and the fact that my social circle frequents other bars in the area. 2. the place is a bit run down. This isnt always a bad thing, as it could just mean the place has a lot of culture. 3. There is only one bar........ This is the biggest thing. When the place gets packed for a show, it becomes nearly impossible to snag a drink. Check out the bottleneck tomorrow to see the wonder that is ASSJAMZ, and check out their event schedule to see who's playing. There have been some pretty good lineups in the past. read more

Place is pretty bad ass ! Great place to see a show and a Jayhawks game! Tons of beer on draft and bottle selection is sweet!!! I'll be back next time I'm in town!! read more

The Bottleneck - people watching a video game - Music Venues Near Me - Lawrence, Kansas

Oh, the Bottleneck. How I miss thee. When I went to KU I wasn't yet 21 and so I did not get to appreciate the complete and utter glory that is The Bottleneck. Lucky for me, I have tons of excuses to visit Lawrence now that I'm 22 and so now The Bottleneck has become an easy fun-times mainstay. This place has a pretty incredible music scene, especially when you consider how small Lawrence is. The first band I ever saw here was the now-Grammy-award-winning-band fun. (sic). They were incredible, as you might have guessed-- and The Bottleneck was the perfect venue. I brought a whole gaggle of friends to the show AND I got to hug Jack Antonoff, so yeah, I guess you could say my life is pretty great. But, I digress. My point was that The Bottleneck consistently serves great up-and-coming bands to it's patrons, and I keep bringing gangs of pals to come revel in The Bottleneck's greatness. Recently, I brought my mom (I have a pretty cool mom), my best friend, and his girlfriend to see the Quiet Corral and we had a darn good time! The drinks were strong, the bands were incredible, and my mom even made nice with the band so we could all fawn over them in person. So yeah, I love The Bottleneck. You're making a huge mistake if you pass this gem up for something as lame and sh***y-hipster as The Jackpot. read more

Great music and good times had by all!! Didnt know what to expect and was pleasantly surprised. We recommend stopping in for an adventure in music. read more

Many of the bands I adore will pass up venues in the Kansas City metro area, but they will play The Bottleneck every tour. When I look at venue schedules in The Pitch, I check The Bottleneck first. I waltzed in a few hours before Sleater-Kinney was scheduled to go on and was treated to a sound check...no hassle, completely mellow, and yeah, woah! The lead singer of the Donnas chucked a shoe into the crowd and hit me in the face. How much better than that does it get? read more

A Lawrence Attraction Rivaling Mount Oread and even the Kaw. Rock on. read more

Bands! Good drinks and nice bartenders! Very fun place, even on a weeknight! read more

Not a trans friendly place to go even as advocating for one. went to the The Bottleneck to see Turnover tonight! Unfortunately didn't have the best experience. As a lot of you know, the men's restroom doesn't have a stall door, and for transgender people that can be dangerous. they have a sign on the women's restroom that says it is LGBTQIA friendly, but shortly after i entered, the security guard for the bar grabbed me and another person by the back of our necks saying we weren't allowed in there and that he was going to kick us out. Two other women in there plus the other guy immediately started talking about the sign and the security guard walked to the front of the venue. It says on their sign that if anyone gives you trouble, to report it to the staff. I reported it to the gentleman manning the front door with the beard and long hair, who replied "...okay?" and shrugged it off. I definitely didnt think I'd have to deal with this in Lawrence KS but bigotry is everywhere. Definitely won't be back at this venue again. read more

YES ON SO MANY LEVELS! Great specials every day of the week and always live music. This place never disappoints. It's a Lawrence staple! read more

So many memories. Music was my life as a kid, and this is where we saw new bands before everyone else. Thanks, you guys.

The babe that works here really knows her PBR. She brewed me the best #pbers of my life. Definitely worth it.

the bottleneck is like stepping back in time to 1994. the bottleneck has become a storied and popular venue in lawrence amid a glut of competiting spaces. what the bottleneck lacks is any sort of nightlife scene outside its events or programming. whereas replay/taproom/jackpot are able to host both heavy regular crowds and events-- bottleneck seems content only with event crowds. this is a shame because the bottleneck has potential to be something more important. as a live club...it is so-so. sound is usually good and of course you're intimate with the performers. the stage is in a corner position which makes it a little awkward at times. when the place is really busy-- the place is a disaster. i think the whole place should be remodeled despite its anacronistic flair of the 90s. it looks and feel like a punk or hard rock club, but usually books a variety of performers and events. read more

Lawrence's only 5 star dive! When I'm going to The Bottleneck I know I'm going to have a great time. Yes it is small and dingy but it's a bar and my favorite bands play here so I'm there. It's the best place in Lawrence for live music. It is not a cowboy/hippie joint at all...it is Rock n Roll all the way! read more

That dude with the afro that took over the management position recently is a chron don, purp skurp, full blow OG. Really turned that place around. Big shout out to him and bringing those little mason jar shot glasses into that beautiful, seedy dive bar of deliciousness. read more

Went here for the first time last week. It's quite common for Nebraskans to drive down here because they get lots of fantastic shows, and it's really not TOO far. Sound was okay, though the band we saw seemed to be having some issues. Beers were well-priced though the Stella Artois on tap was a little flat. Overall, I had a great time. I loved the crowd here... and the bar is a total dive. Wish we had a cool place like this in Lincoln. read more

I really love the atmosphere in there...low ceilings, wood walls and floor, and a massive amounts of pictures on the walls from all the past played performers ranging from Wilco, The Toadies, Black Rebel Motorcycle Club, Mighty Mighty Bosstones. Has a couple pool tables and some booths and bleachers to enjoy the show. The sound is not the greatest and seems like some band members get frustrated with it, but in my mind I actually think it adds to the ambiance. The sound at the Granada is much better, but I refuse to go there because the atmosphere at the Granada is equivalent to an empty closet. Drink specials some nights are great, and some nights are okay (the nightly drink speicals escapes my mind). I will definitely miss this place when I move... read more

Wow. I can't believe no one else has written this place up yet. The Bottleneck has been part of my life since I was old enough to get in. Its such a part of the early 90s for me and has been a solid place for shows straight through. Its a good venue overall. They tend to bring in some pretty awesome live bands. I've been there when the sounds been great and I've been there when its been questionable, but its like that will all venues I think. The Bottleneck is a down to earth place thats never seemed too over the top or hipster. But that, of course, could depend on the night and who's playing. Overall, its a good place to hang out even if you're not there for the show or want to skip the opening band. The four pool tables and booths at the back of the place make this pretty easy. Recommended for shows. read more

A local institution. I've seen many good shows here. I'd go so far as to say that if you don't like this place, there is something wrong with you. The Bottleneck has personality, and as they say, this goes a long way. Well worth a visit if you're in the area. There's usually someone interesting performing here. read more

Plenty of good shows, spectacular atmosphere, and friendly staff every time I've gone in. If you've never seen a show here and you're a local, you've done the impossible. This place is very laid back and a good place to hang with friends. Plenty of local regulars you'll meet and know by name pretty quick. Definitely a place to go for the local experience. read more

RIPPED OFF went there last night to see the led zepp tribute band featuring no quarter. left at 11 since they never showed up. the advertisement said 9PM. they refused to refund my money too. thanks for being ripped off and wasting my friday night +120 miles. read more

I live in Kansas City but have lived in Lawrence and Bottleneck as I recall is the former Off the Wall Hall - which also enjoyed many great artists and concerts among those Tofu Teddy, Blue Riddim Band, Billy Spears and Secrets (it was another time). Of the Bottleneck, WOW, great shows!!! You gotta keep checking to see who is coming to town as some of the best bands play here and not necessarily KC. I'm giving it 5 stars cause they recently had one of my favorite bands who haven't toured in over 7 years yet made it to Lawrence, KS. WAY TO GO BOTTLENECK!!!!!! : - D. read more

Great live music venue.