 A Star is born
(China Daily)
Updated: 2008-12-13 08:08  Star Live may be the only sign of modernity in an otherwise historic setting. The government officials that signed the planning permission forms allowing what is essentially a rock fuelled medium sized super club complex to be placed in-between a traditional Cantonese restaurant which lights up the sky for miles around and the Lama Temple, were ambitious to say the least. But what followed was the creation of a spot that has become renowned for playing host to bands placed in that sacred zone somewhere between having underground cult like status and commercial recognition. It can be a temperamental place for musicians, but it is a place that often inspires heartfelt performances and brings with it a heightened atmosphere. Its sound system and lighting is the envy of many a venue around Beijing, which may be one reason why it is able to attract international stars to mount its stage all year around. But it is the intimacy of the venue that sets it apart from its rivals. It has the qualities of a super club but somehow maintains some of the comforts and familiarities of a far smaller set up. It is in part because of its dcor. It has seating areas, which are rarely found in concerts arenas but also has the potential for a mosh pit, if a band wished to inspire some chaos. The management does seem to have a certain preference for a particular brand of Chinese metal, which is not necessarily the most accessible form of music to the curious expat. It is however worth a visit for an insight into a genre which is seems to be held dear to many in the city. Prices for performances are reasonable at 60 yuan for a night and if you are not fully satisfied you can always drop over to the Cantonese restaurant next door which is open through the night. 79 Hepingli Xijie, Dongchang district 东城区和平里西街79号 Danny Vincent (China Daily 12/13/2008 page8) |
