Dive into some fun at Mr. T's Bowl
from Pasadena Star News Article : 09/04/2008
THE PLACE:
Mr. T's Bowl in Highland Park is a dive bar steeped in history and tapped into the underbelly of the music scene. It began as a bowling alley (hence the name) and as the sport faded, owner Joe Terresa (Mr. T) decided to turn it into a club. In the early '90s, some of the lane seating was removed to make room for a stage and a dance floor, but if you peek backstage, behind a large flow of curtains, you'll see the alleys are still there.
Mr. T is deceased, but he has left a legacy in the wake of the bands that have performed on his stage. Groups like Arlo, Ninja Academy, The Mormons, The Randies and Go Betty Go are just a few examples of the many bands that appeared regularly at T-Bowl before getting signed and touring the world.
THE PRICE:
Most nights there is no cover charge for Mr. T's. Saturdays it is usually around $5 and for special events, such as the burlesque show on the third Thursday of the month or a popular band, you might pay up to $10. Drink prices are average and the bartenders know how to mix just about anything you'd like. There are also drink specials on Mondays and Tuesdays.
If you have a birthday or anniversary coming up, give booker Gus Hudson at least two months advance notice and he will enlist up to four of your favorite bands to perform. This service is free if you are willing to keep the event open to the public. The T-Bowl can also be rented out for private functions, especially on Sundays.
THE SOUNDS:
There's live music every night at the T-Bowl. Most of the grooves are courtesy of local bands that could be pegged as rock, but often boast fringes and influences of everything from jazz and folk to punk and experimental. And often the night's lineup is an eclectic mix in itself. Hudson has a knack for finding hidden gems, as well as the heart to give stage time to a band that might not land a gig somewhere else.
In between bands, soundman Arlo Aldahl spins records which reflect his own unique musical tastes and are often a nice surprise. There also are deejays, variety shows (such as Club Flotsam on the last Thursday of every month), karaoke, trivia contests and more. Expect the unexpected.
As for volume, it really depends on where you sit or stand. Nearer the stage, the louder the band. But you can curl up in the bar area or swing down the side section of booths for easier conversation. If you still are uncomfortable talking inside, there's a bench outside the door. It is intended for smokers, but it's mostly used for swapping good stories.
THE FOOD:
No food is served, except for an occasional potluck. There is an assortment of eateries in the area, but I would dine first, as many of them close before you'll be done partying.
THE VIBE:
The back door serves as the main entrance and the dark steps going down into the venue belie the friendly vibe within. Mr. T's has its regular patrons, as well as people who pop in just for a certain band or event, but it's never dull. Don't be surprised if a stranger strikes up a conversation with you while you're waiting for your drink. And after you return to the venue a few times, you're family. The T-Bowl is truly a place "where everybody knows your name."
As for the staff, the bartenders are amiable and will even change the TV channel for you if you ask nicely and there's no dissent from the other patrons. Hudson and Aldahl are pleasant and often have a joke or story to share. They're also happy to answer your questions about the club's history (or music history for that matter) and even suggest other places you might like to go.
AGE GROUP:
The crowd at Mr. T's has a broad age range and varies according to the evening's lineup. I recommend that you base your visit on your musical taste rather than what's "age appropriate." It's not unusual to see just-21s chatting away with seniors, the very same seniors who later cheer on a punk band. You'll find people dressed in all styles and fashions, but comfortable is the most popular.
BEWARE:
It's a little tricky to find parking for the T-Bowl at first because it's not obvious. From Figueroa Street take 57 Avenue west and you'll spot a lot on the south side of the street, as well as the venue's boldly marked back door. The parking lot may look a little dicey, but I've never had a problem there.
GO:
Mr. T's Bowl is at 5621 1/2 N. Figueroa St., Highland Park. Call (323) 256-7561 or visit www.myspace.com/mrtsbowl. It's open 6 p.m.-2 a.m Monday and Tuesday, 8 p.m.-2 a.m. Wednesday, 5 p.m.-2 a.m. Thursday and 8 p.m.-2 a.m. Friday and has varying extended hours Saturday and Sunday and for special events.
MY RATING:
I give Mr. T's a 4. There's always something going on and someone to talk with. It's the kind of place that easily becomes a favorite watering hole and, who knows, you might get the first listen of future music history.
michelle.mills@sgvn.com
(626) 962-8811, Ext. 2128
RATINGS: (1- 5: 5 is really really hot; 4 is hot; 3 is fun, loose, low pressure; 2 is cool, relaxing; 1 is just OK, sorta cool.)