by Travis Erwin

In my continued quest to review the many live music venues of Southern California I step away from the big arenas, and share my thoughts on a small, intimate, listening room.

McCabe’s Guitar Shop, Santa Monica

Yes, as the name implies McCabe’s is a working shop that sells and repairs instruments as well as offering lessons. You won’t find a more knowledgeable, or friendly shop in this area no matter if you are an established musician or a curious newcomer, they will take the time to chat, offer advice, or enlighten you. Since 1968 they have hosted a variety of shows in the back room.

On my most recent trip is caught a show from Texas Indie stalwart, Slaid Cleaves.

History

A look through past concerts will reveal that artists of many genres have played here, but for the most part you will find singer/songwriters, Folk, Americana, Bluegrass, and similar brands of artists dominate the schedule.

The first stage at McCabe’s was painted by Linda Ronstadt and since that time the 150 seat back of the store venue has hosted a treasure trove of musical talent from the late great Townes Van Zandt to Arlo Guthrie.

Z to A might not be the usual way to order things but this isn’t your usual venue. Other well-known artists to grace the McCabe’s stage include R.E.M, Wynonna Judd, The Bangles, Emmylou Harris, and far too many others to list.

Here is a vintage grainy video from years back with Warren Zevon and T Bone Burnet performing a classic on the McCabe’s Guitar Shop stage.

Parking

There is free parking in the lot behind U.S. Bank after 6:00 PM, seven nights a week and metered spaces along Pico Blvd, which also extend a few doors north and south on each residential street. These spaces are also free and unrestricted after 6:00 PM and all day on Sundays. The residential streets to the north and south of Pico are permit parking only, seven nights a week.

Getting There

If you don’t want to drive, rideshare is always an option but really this is an alcohol free venue so driving home after isn’t a problem and the small size makes it easy to get in and out or find parking.

Pico Blvd is a major thoroughfare with ample service and McCabe’s is less than a block from the nearest bus stop.   

Upgrades

Again, this is a very small venue so there really are no real frills or VIP amenities. Nor are they needed as this is simply a nice listening room without a bad seat in the house which is why venerated artists like Elvis Costello have performed in such a small space.

Seats

The seating is in standard folding chairs but there is space to and legroom and if your butt is tender, they have some cushion up near the stage to add some plush softness for your booty. Again, it only seats 150 and the rows are all close to the stage with ample site lines.

There is a pole in the center aisle toward the back, but I always arrive early and sit in one of the first few rows, so I have no firsthand knowledge if it impedes the view from any of the seats behind it. You can see the pole and seats in this picture.

Food and Beverage

This isn’t your regular conession type deal. McCabe’s does generally offer a few soda’s, bottled water, and coffee as well as snacks such as chips or cookies. These are sold from a small table out in the shop and I believe all sales are cash only.

Bathrooms

The bathrooms are small but clean. Just down the hall. I’ve never experienced more than a one or tw person line but some shows do ask you not get up or go back and forth during songs as again this is more of a listening room environment.

Respect the artist and your fellow audience and you will be fine, but if you are one of those who go to concerts to talk to their friends and ignore the music, this isn’t the place for you. I’d argue live music isn’t for you if that is the case, because no one paid their admission to hear you yak about the traffic on the 101, your insane boss, or any of the other inane banter that has no place going on while an artist is on stage performing.   

Neighborhood

Quiet and walkable at least right around the venue. Never had any issues or felt unsafe before or after a show.

Sound

Excellent. This is an intimate environment offering a well dialed sound that only a few venues ever manage to achieve.

Overall Impression

One of my very favorite venues. The place is clean and well run and a bit of a throwback to another time and era. I haven’t been in a while, but I feel confident things change slowly around McCabe’s and that is a very good thing.

Upcoming Events

https://www.mccabes.com/concerts-landing/?v=7516fd43adaa

Many shows sell out here, and a look at their current calendar proves that point so I suggest you go directly to the McCabe’s website and see what shows are upcoming and which ones still have tickets available.