The Sounds of Kent: Finding the best live music in town

Local band A Sense of Purpose performs at Euro Gyro in downtown Kent on Friday, Jan. 13, 2017.

Jenna Kuczkowski

When music apps just aren’t cutting it, music lovers of all genres can enjoy a wide selection of live music in Kent, many within walking distance of campus. Enjoy a drink and some bar food while discovering a new local band in some of Kent’s most popular music venues.

The Euro Gyro

What may look like a regular bar to anyone passing by on the street, Euro Gyro is more than just a place to get drinks. The basement dwelling restaurant is known not only for their pizza and gyros but for weekly live music acts of all genres that are free for every age.

The Outpost Concert Club

Located on the outskirts of Kent near OH-76 sits a widely unknown venue called The Outpost Concert Club. Despite its small size, the venue holds both a main stage and smaller side stage. It has hosted a variety of up and coming artists, who now are globally known such as PVRIS and Carousel Kings.

The Kent Stage

Back when The Kent Stage was constructed 1927, it was originally a silent movie theater. When the Western Reserve Folk Arts Association took over in 2002, the Kent Stage became a popular venue for folk, blues and acoustic artists to perform at. In addition to shows, the Kent Stage also hosts a variety of festivals including the Kent Folk Festival, the Kent Blues Fest, Kent Reggae Fest, the Kent State Around Town Music Festival, film festivals and numerous plays.

Stone Tavern at Michel’s

Previously known as the Stone Tavern in Downtown Kent, the Stone Tavern at Michel’s is a bar across town near Stow that now hosts free live music every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights. Shows are usually 21 and over, but certain shows during the day are open for all ages. The venue also doubles as a bar, record store and local art gallery.

Jenna Kuczkowski is the managing editor, contact her at [email protected].