New Venue Alert: The Independent [In 501 Studios, Little Joy & Clues Coming in June]

The Independent sits on the corner of I-35 and E. 5th Street, just blocks from downtown destinations like Emo's, Red 7 and Beauty Bar. It's also a short walk to emerging east side hot spots like Shangri-La and Rio Rita. Its unassuming (and a bit office-like) presence has, until recently, been rolled into the Pilate and Latte vibe produced by its neighbors -- lawyers, designers and Progress Coffee regulars -- but that's all about to change.

The converted warehouse housed inside the historical building was used as a film studio, but the space is now a full-functioning venue with a 300 head capacity. This summer, C3 will kick things off by booking a couple of bands that we'd previously look for on 6th Street or Red River. The growing downtown epicenter is growing, folks. As we watch downtown slowly turn into a condo garden, noise restrictions limit downtown venues (or disrupt neighbors, depending on your view), and the prospect of a Waller Creek Tunnel becomes more likely (there's a public meeting about the Tunnel tonight), the migration east (and indoors) starts looking like an evolutionary imperative. The Independent is also for rent, with amenities including full bar, lounge, green rooms, projection capabilities, production support and HD streaming of events straight to the web.

There's lots planned for Spring '09 at The Independent (check the schedule here), including two C3 presented shows in June. Little Joy (ex-Strokes) and Clues (members of Unicorns and Arcade Fire) will play on June 8 and 10, respectively. Stay tuned for a chance to attend one of these concerts on us. Until then, start considering the walk from Teacher's parking lot to the east side an unavoidable part of your weekend.