Metal Scene In Amsterdam: A Local's Guide
Hey metalheads! If you're planning a trip to Amsterdam and wondering if this famously liberal city has anything to offer beyond canals and coffee shops, then you're in for a serious treat. Amsterdam's metal scene is alive and kicking, with a vibrant mix of venues, bands, and fans. I'm here to give you the lowdown on where to find the best gigs, record stores, and metal-friendly bars in this awesome city. Get ready to dive headfirst into the thriving metal scene of Amsterdam!
Venues: Where the Riffs Roam Free
Amsterdam boasts a diverse range of venues that cater to all subgenres of metal. From intimate, underground spaces to larger, more established halls, there's something for every metal fan. Let's check out some of the top spots:
Melkweg
Melkweg is a legendary Amsterdam venue that has been hosting live music events since the 1970s. Situated in a former milk factory (hence the name, which translates to "Milky Way"), this venue has a rich history and a reputation for showcasing a wide range of musical genres, including metal. Melkweg features multiple halls of varying sizes, allowing it to host both up-and-coming bands and established acts. The atmosphere is always electric, and the sound quality is top-notch. Keep an eye on their calendar for metal shows, as they often feature both local and international bands. Melkweg is more than just a venue; it's a cultural institution in Amsterdam.
The venue's industrial-chic aesthetic adds to its unique appeal, and the diverse crowd creates an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're into thrash, death, black, or doom metal, you're likely to find a show that suits your taste at Melkweg. Beyond the music, Melkweg also hosts art exhibitions, film screenings, and other cultural events, making it a hub of creativity and expression. The venue's central location makes it easily accessible by public transportation, and there are plenty of bars and restaurants in the surrounding area to grab a bite or a drink before or after the show. Overall, Melkweg is a must-visit venue for any metal fan visiting Amsterdam.
Paradiso
Paradiso, another iconic Amsterdam venue, is housed in a former church, giving it a unique and awe-inspiring atmosphere. The stained-glass windows and high ceilings create a sense of grandeur that is unlike any other venue in the city. Paradiso has a long and storied history of hosting legendary musicians, and it continues to be a premier destination for live music in Amsterdam. While Paradiso hosts a wide range of genres, it also features its fair share of metal shows. The acoustics in the main hall are exceptional, making it a fantastic place to experience live metal music.
The venue's layout allows for an intimate connection between the band and the audience, creating a truly unforgettable experience. Paradiso's location in the heart of Amsterdam makes it easily accessible, and its proximity to other cultural attractions makes it a great addition to any Amsterdam itinerary. The venue's commitment to showcasing diverse musical talent ensures that there's always something interesting happening at Paradiso. Whether you're a seasoned metalhead or just curious about the genre, Paradiso is a venue that is sure to impress. The combination of its stunning architecture, exceptional acoustics, and rich history makes it a truly special place to see live music.
Winston Kingdom
Winston Kingdom is a smaller, more intimate venue that is known for its punk and alternative music scene. However, it also hosts metal shows from time to time, particularly those featuring underground and up-and-coming bands. The venue has a gritty, DIY vibe that is perfect for those who prefer a more raw and authentic experience. Winston Kingdom is a great place to discover new bands and to get up close and personal with the music. The venue's small size creates a sense of intimacy and energy that is hard to find in larger venues. Winston Kingdom is a true gem of the Amsterdam music scene, and it's a must-visit for anyone who is looking for something a little different. The venue's commitment to supporting independent music makes it a vital part of the city's cultural landscape.
Winston Kingdom's location in the red-light district adds to its edgy appeal, and the surrounding area is full of interesting bars and shops to explore. The venue's laid-back atmosphere and friendly staff make it a welcoming place for music lovers of all kinds. Whether you're a punk rocker, a metalhead, or just someone who appreciates good music, Winston Kingdom is a venue that is sure to impress. The venue's dedication to showcasing emerging talent makes it a great place to discover your new favorite band. Overall, Winston Kingdom is a vital part of the Amsterdam music scene, and it's a must-visit for anyone who is looking for an authentic and unforgettable experience.
Record Stores: Digging for Gold
No metal pilgrimage is complete without a visit to the local record stores. Here are a couple of places where you can find some killer metal albums:
Concerto
Concerto is a legendary record store in Amsterdam that has been serving music lovers for over 60 years. The store is a true institution, and it's known for its vast selection of music across all genres, including metal. Concerto is more than just a record store; it's a community hub for music enthusiasts. The staff is knowledgeable and passionate about music, and they are always happy to help customers find what they are looking for. Concerto also hosts in-store performances and events, making it a vibrant and engaging place to visit. The store's atmosphere is warm and welcoming, and it's easy to spend hours browsing through the endless racks of records, CDs, and DVDs. Concerto is a must-visit for any music lover visiting Amsterdam.
The store's extensive collection of metal albums is particularly impressive, and you're sure to find something that you've been searching for. Concerto also carries a wide range of merchandise, including t-shirts, posters, and books. The store's location in the heart of Amsterdam makes it easily accessible, and it's a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting to build your music library, Concerto is a record store that is sure to impress. The store's commitment to preserving the art of physical music makes it a vital part of the Amsterdam cultural landscape.
Velvet Music
Velvet Music is another great record store in Amsterdam that has a wide selection of metal albums. The store is known for its friendly staff and its focus on independent music. Velvet Music is a great place to discover new bands and to find rare and hard-to-find albums. The store's atmosphere is laid-back and welcoming, and it's easy to spend hours browsing through the racks. Velvet Music is a must-visit for any metal fan who is looking for something a little different. The store's commitment to supporting independent music makes it a vital part of the Amsterdam music scene.
Velvet Music's selection of metal albums is carefully curated, and you're sure to find something that catches your eye. The store also carries a wide range of merchandise, including t-shirts, posters, and patches. Velvet Music's location in the city center makes it easily accessible, and it's a great place to meet other music lovers. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting to explore the world of metal, Velvet Music is a record store that is sure to impress. The store's dedication to providing a personalized and friendly shopping experience makes it a standout in the Amsterdam music scene.
Metal-Friendly Bars: Raise Your Horns!
After a night of headbanging, you'll need a place to unwind and grab a drink with your fellow metalheads. Here are a couple of bars that are known for their metal-friendly atmosphere:
The Cave
The Cave is a legendary rock and metal bar in Amsterdam that has been serving music lovers for over 25 years. The bar is a true institution, and it's known for its dark and atmospheric interior, its friendly staff, and its great selection of beers and spirits. The Cave is a must-visit for any metal fan who is looking for a place to relax and unwind after a show. The bar's atmosphere is warm and welcoming, and it's easy to strike up a conversation with other metalheads. The Cave also hosts live music events and DJ nights, making it a vibrant and engaging place to visit.
The bar's walls are adorned with posters and memorabilia from some of the biggest names in rock and metal, and the jukebox is always blasting out classic anthems. The Cave is a true haven for metal fans in Amsterdam, and it's a place where you can feel like you're part of a community. The bar's location in the city center makes it easily accessible, and it's a great place to meet new friends and share your love of metal. Whether you're a seasoned metalhead or just starting to explore the genre, The Cave is a bar that is sure to impress. The bar's commitment to creating a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere makes it a standout in the Amsterdam nightlife scene.
Dr. Feelgood
Dr. Feelgood is another great rock and metal bar in Amsterdam that has a loyal following of metalheads. The bar is known for its lively atmosphere, its friendly staff, and its great selection of beers and cocktails. Dr. Feelgood is a great place to party and to let loose after a long day of exploring the city. The bar's atmosphere is energetic and fun, and it's easy to get caught up in the excitement. Dr. Feelgood also hosts live music events and DJ nights, making it a vibrant and engaging place to visit.
The bar's decor is inspired by the world of rock and roll, and the jukebox is always playing classic anthems. Dr. Feelgood is a true haven for metal fans in Amsterdam, and it's a place where you can feel like you're part of a community. The bar's location in the city center makes it easily accessible, and it's a great place to meet new friends and share your love of metal. Whether you're a seasoned metalhead or just starting to explore the genre, Dr. Feelgood is a bar that is sure to impress. The bar's commitment to creating a fun and memorable experience makes it a standout in the Amsterdam nightlife scene.
So there you have it, guys! Your guide to navigating the metal scene in Amsterdam. With its killer venues, awesome record stores, and metal-friendly bars, Amsterdam is a city that knows how to rock. So pack your bags, grab your leather jacket, and get ready to headbang your way through this amazing city! Stay metal!