Urban Lounge

My first visit to the Urban Lounge in downtown Salt Lake was to see Band of Skulls. I had just moved to Salt Lake City and I was stunned when I showed up and realized how intimate the club is. You may not have heard of Band of Skulls—that’s okay—but I knew they were a pretty big deal and seeing them in such a small space was great.

In addition to some well-known touring acts, local music is a big focus at the Urban. In the years since that first Band of Skulls show, I have seen a lot of local music—with outfits like SLUG Magazine and dAve Crespo of Studio J promoting somewhat frequent mashes of new talent.

I’m originally from Los Angeles, so I definitely have some preconceived notions about live music clubs. The Urban Lounge did not disappoint. It’s a straight up, no frills 21+ venue with fairly priced drinks and a full bar. There is only one bar, which is fine, and there’s a large private smoking area out back past the restrooms if you are so inclined.

The sound at Urban Lounge is top-tier and th layout of the venue naturally promotes standing in the face of the performers and getting into it with fellow patrons. There is seating along the back wall, but it is limited. But again, if you’re at the Urban Lounge for a show, you probably want to be standing anyway.

If your timing is right, you might be able to grab a bite at Rye before your show. Rye is a small restaurant next door with great food. It’s primarily a lunch spot, but they frequently hold Rye Diner & Drinks nights, where local performers will enternating diners starting at 6 pm. Check out their facebook page for event listings.

There is a small lot with free parking. If that fills up, you may have to park a short block away but there is plenty of free street parking. If you don’t have a designated driver, we recommend taking an Uber of Lyft to the show. Ridesharing is easy, affordable and safe. Another option is Trax. The 400S/University line has a stop just one-and-one-half blocks south and one block east of the the venue. Easy.

For show information, visit the Urban Lounge website. If you are reading this in early 2020, you know that the music industry has taken a hit. If you love local, live music, consider making a donation to the operators of Urban Lounge, Sartain & Saunders. You donation will be repaid in show tickets down the road. For more information, visit sartainandsaunders.com.

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If you know of a great music venue you would like Salt Lake Bard to review, let us know. We love exploring new places and promoting the best the region has to offer.