Punkers, Thrashers, Headbangers: Come one, come all

The Scene
Every hardcore band worth its salt will put in an appearance here some time. As grungy as its location in the downtown eastside, the Columbia caters to a crowd who love loud, fast music and cheap pints. The interior is dark and foreboding, though TV screens that display what is happening onstage are a cool touch. Long tables are laid out school cafeteria style, but that's about as close as the bar comes to resembling an academic setting. From all-day MetalFests to just-out-of-the-garage punkers, the performances invariably induce high-spirited moshing in the small, dusty dance floor. Sound quality is very good, but be prepared for LOUDNESS.

Listen to the Band
Everything heavy and hard comes here. Bands with names like Explosive Rage Disorder, Abuse or Crown of Horns give you some idea of what to expect.