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Sounds in the Valley

Kent Roberg

Is live music your thing? Grow up trading tapes and burning CD’s? Think Napster the greatest idea on the planet? Then you’re probably wondering were to catch a live show in Vail. A real show, not some aprs joker playing covers. Here are the places to look and what to expect.8150Located in the Village next to the parking structure and across from Pazzo’s, 8150 is where the locals look for bands like Nashville Pussy, Hank Williams III, The Reverend Horton Heat, Jungle Brothers, Jurassic 5, and other national acts. Don’t be alarmed if the floor starts bouncing, it’s an 8150 trademark, just hang onto that gin and tonic.The Half Moon SaloonLocated in the West Vail Mall (Next to Gart Sports and Safeway), the Half Moon is another musical hotbed. A laid back local tavern, the Half Moon hosts local, regional and national acts. Justin Hurley books the acts and has a great ear for music. This is a good place to catch the next big thing. Claim bragging rights and say saw them back in the day or just hang out and take in the local scene.HypnotykLocated on Bridge Street (imagine that) this is the place to catch the hottest dj’s in the Valley. Techno, House, Down Tempo, if you’re looking for anything electronic, new, or experimental, look to Hypnotyk.Dobson ArenaThe Vail Valley’s version of the stadium show, this is the place to be when the really big acts come through town. Dobson Ice Arena is located across from the public library. From the Lionshead parking structure follow the bus route east a block. Dobson is on the left. Street Beat Concert SeriesBudweiser sponsors these free outdoor concerts at Checkpoint Charlie in the village throughout the winter. Concerts start at 6:00 and go until around 8:00. A wide range of regional and national acts perform. Be sure to dress warm. Gerald Ford Amphitheater Vilar Pavilion (http://www.vvf.org/ford_amph.cfm)This stunning outdoor venue is one of the most beautiful places to see a concert. Period. The likes of James Brown and The Dark Star Orchestra have played here. You can expect anything from classical to rock and roll, ballet and dance throughout the season. The Bravo! Vail Valley Music Festival calls the Amphitheater home, as does the International Dance Festival and Budweiser Hot Summer Nights free concert series. Be sure to stroll through the adjacent Betty Ford Alpine Gardens and take in one of the premier alpine gardens in Colorado. This is THE place to see a show in the summer in Vail!Ampitheater Box Office : 970-476-2918


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