Where to Rock in 798

There's a new bar in 798 called Ku-18. That kind of name requires an immediate explanation: the ku here does not mean cool. That'd be ku (酷). This place is ku (库), which means warehouse. It has the whole "warehouse party" vibe. In fact, the boss of Ku-18 helped organize some of the electronica warehouse parties in 798 last year. He's a bassist from Shenzhen who recently came to Beijing to open this 1,000sqm live music venue.

The stage is decked out with smoke machines, cork-screwing lights, lasers, and the works. A dancing area opens up beneath it, lined on either side by rows of cocktail tables pushed against the walls. Behind the soundboard, the back of the hall hosts some sofas and the bar. Brick walls and reflective tile floor make for a big sound that can get muddy during louder sets.

In the future, the boss hopes to focus on foreign groups, so as to avoid becoming just another stop on the Beijing circuit that local acts follow. Still, the boss claims no prejudice towards any style of music, welcoming anything from rock to techno. When I stopped by, a Norwegian band had played, followed by a Latvian indie group. They're only open when there's a show, so check out the May line-up on their website, or below. Bottled beer from RMB 20, cocktails for RMB 30.

May 9
Zhang Ying Jazz Group

Sondia, who sings regularly at Zeta Bar, leads this band. RMB 50. 9.30pm.

May 10
Big John and Band
RMB 50. 9.30pm.

May 16
Boy number six

A band that's been playing at D-22 recently. RMB 40. 9.30pm.

May 23
Rhythm Dogs

Eddie, Cui Jian's guitarist, is in this band – pretty old school. RMB 50. 9.30pm.

May 24
The Incredible JSB

A multi-continental trio with strings, melodica, and drums. RMB 50. 9.30pm.

May 30
Sand Band

Old fashioned blues. RMB 40. 9.30pm