Experiencing Axelrad For the First Time

The soul of Houston always includes music of many genres represented and brings fans together. In Downtown Houston, there’s a small place called Axelrad, a beer-garden that not only hosts live music, but festivals, film screenings, and other culture and arts events. From its average image, it’s a memorable place for music. I visited the place for the first time this January as my adventure of exploring Houston more than ever before. My overall thought is that it is a relaxing place with a clear vibe of good people loving the related arts.

The Environment

One take away I first noticed when I entered is that it’s open and outside. The sky can be viewed, there was fresh air, and lots of hammocks to relax. The only interiors found are its bar and a local pizza place next to it called Luigi’s Pizza (tasted good!). It’s a unique choice to be outside and feel fresh air, when it’s there, and look at the dark sky at night with concert lights and the center signature tree on. Most music events in Downtown would likely be in interior places, like the Toyota Center obviously. But experiencing them outside adds to a more relaxing nature.

Emo Night & Rock Español

Two events I went to were Emo Night and Rock Espanol, both at night. They made such a right sense of place for rock fans in both English and Spanish communities because of how everyone appeared and the music playing on stage. As a rock head growing up, it was rare to make connections with these kinds of people, mainly due to my area. Then, I finally found that sense of belonging right after Emo Night.

The People

While I was cold approaching for the first time, it was just pleasant how the people I talked with were friendly and loved listening to the same artists I grew up with. Everyone had stories of how they found rock music and their favorite bands like Fall Out Boy, Creed, Mana, and La Oreja de Van Gogh. It was also I rediscovered some of these bands because I questioned who was La Oreja de Van Gogh to a fan, so she played one of their hits, Rosas, and it suddenly made me realize I heard this pure classic.

The Band

The major features of these events were performances by DJs and rising local bands on stage. Two of the bands I enjoyed during Rock Español were Vosotros and The Urbans. Their music had a 2000s setting of sound that hit some nostalgia of relaxed styles, and it’s in a good way. Plus, I got to chat with The Urbans without knowing it was them at first! I’m excited to see them perform again and watch them grow in popularity.

Conclusion

When I looked more into Axelrad on its website, it showed that it has been running for many years hosting musical events. It’s a relaxing place where music and culture fans come together, enjoy some drinks, and listen to music of different cultures, featuring bands one may never have heard of. The perfect place for first timers and music fanatics happens there, so try to have a good time meeting some folks or bring your friends for a pleasing night.

Axelrad is located in 1517 Alabama Street, Houston, TX 77004. Parking rates vary by hour and spots.