The Music Scene in Salem

By: Susannah Geary
The weekend looms large -- and you and some friends want to go and listen to some live music -- but not sure of where to go? A wide variety of outlets and venues exist in our downtown and elsewhere. My recommendations for great places for music include:
All Ages
Gulu-Gulu Cafe located at the corner of Essex Street and Washington Street, offers a quaint and hip eating experience any time of the day, but at night you can catch some local bands and musicians performing. If you come for lunch or dinner you can hang out and play board games, then come back later for the shows. You can check Gulu’s Facebook page for updates and calendar events being added constantly and check out some acts. If you’re there while there isn’t a show going on you can even pick a spot of the stage yourself.
Twenty One & Over
Koto in Salem on Washington Street is perfect for your sushi fix and you’re live music fix. The stage might seem small but the atmosphere is complete with moody red lighting which makes you feel as if you’re at a raging private concert. Koto has an extraordinary line up of gigs ready to view on their Facebook page. It’s always a good time to discover your new favorite band and support Salem and other local musicians.
Bonus Karaoke 21+
Nothing to do next Saturday night? Go hang down at Fantasy Island where the service is fantastic and the community of karaoke performers draws you in. You don’t even have to sing, just clap for everyone brave enough to show their skills. There are some really talented regulars that come through that are worth checking out. Listen to some fan favorite songs, grab some Chinese Food and get up there and sing if you’re feeling like it. The best part, Fantasy Island is right down the street from campus on Loring Avenue.