Live Scene

Live Venues

For many indie musicians in Japan, playing live is like a hobby that they do aside from a regular job. They often play at live clubs, called "live houses," jazz clubs, cafes and outdoor event spaces.

"Live houses" are basically music halls or rock clubs, which for the most part, have proficient sound & lighting staff and full backline equipment that is well maintained.
Jazz clubs commonly serve food & drinks in addition to live performances. Backline equipment is commonly provided at no charge, but all musicians are expected to pay for their own food and drinks.

Today's Scene

Live performances are commonly set up with artists at the same levels performing together. Generally, bands either play by themselves ("one man live" in Japanese) or about 4 to 7 acts, maybe more, play for 30 min. each. Many venues have changed to a "hall rental" style for weekends, where people rent the space and put on their own events.

Jazz clubs are drawing fewer patrons, and restaurants are shying away from doing live music. Open stages in public spaces are available, but they are often used by people who organize special entertainment related events. Go here for more information about the music scene