Pueblo Venues
CR23 Bombshelter
An all ages house venue in Pueblo County.
Pros
- Cheap tickets ($10 Cash)
- Plenty of places to hangout in between bands.
- Fridge to keep your drinks in.
- Active venue with lots of local punk and metal bands.
- If you have small children or are just getting into the scene, this is a good spot.
Cons
- It is in a rural neighborhood, so there are some noise complaints.
- Parking can be a trick sometimes, so come at door time if you want a spot.
Facebook Page for information about upcoming shows and events.
Blo Back Gallery
A for profit art gallery in Pueblo that has been hosting punk and metal shows after hours.
This place has a cozy vibe, with walls covered in art from local artists.
Pros
- Cheap covers, often with an option to buy online.
- No noise complaints.
- Two clean public restrooms.
- Consistent shows.
- Bar based on the honor system (cash donations).
- Close to a Sonic, if you want to get a drink and a glizzy in-between bands.
Cons
- Heating and cooling can be hit or miss at this venue. It has gotten better in recent times, but just be prepared.
- You have to be careful if you like to mosh. There is a lot of art on the walls, so just avoid it when you go into the pit.
- When bigger bands come into town, it can get packed with new people.
Facebook Page for information about upcoming shows and events.
Colorado Springs Venues
The Black Sheep
A 400 person venue that books a lot of hardcore and death metal bands, on Platte in Colorado Springs.
Pros
- Good shows from smaller national and regional bands.
- Well stocked bar, with some sodas and tea as well.
- Has a tap for free water.
- Amazing security staff, who understand the moshpit and culture of the fans.
Cons
- Ticketing system is only online, unless you get a chance to pay cash at the door.
- There has been less metal shows, in favor of themed raves and non-metal shows (makes more money).
- Bigger bands tend to be on weeknights.
- Sometimes space is limited, because fans can pack this place in like sardines.
Website for information about upcoming shows and events.
Vultures
A cozy dive bar, that has local bands play after dark. Right next door to The Black Sheep.
Pros
- Great to grab a beer with friends before a show.
- When there is food, it is pretty decent.
- Lots of fun decor to take a gander at.
Cons
- This is a tiny bar, so there is not a lot of seating or standing room.
- Sometimes you can be asked to pay a cover for their show, if you were already drinking.
Website for information about upcoming shows and events.
What’s Left Records
An amazing record shop on Platte in Colorado Springs, that sells all kinds of goodies. After normal hours, they put on shows to drive in foot traffic to the store.
Pros
- The best sound system on Platte, custom built by Pryor Custom Craft .
- Good selection of records and tapes.
- A great team running the place, who are on top of any issues that may arise.
- Ice cold cans of tea and water for sale for cheap.
Cons
- No liquor license, so BYOB is the way.
- One of the few downsides of the sound system, is that the bass can be a lot. It can knock down CDs from shelves.
- Covers are a recommended range, so be sure to check the flyer beforehand.
Facebook Page for information about upcoming events and new inventory.
Sunshine Studios
A larger venue in Colorado Srings that is known for hosting national acts.
Pros
- Lots of room to move around.
- The fastest bartenders I have ever seen.
- There is always a food truck outside. The best vendor is the one that sells cheesesteaks.
Cons
- Online tickets only.
- Security is not the greatest. They don’t really understand the moshpit culture.
- Ice cold water in the bathroom sinks.
- Drinks are very expensive.
- This venue does not cater to local bands that much.
- Parking is a bit harder to find than at the Platte venues
Website for information about upcoming shows and events.