
MUNICH –(Special from Mike Richardson) — In order to fully experience any city one must take a look at its nightlife. Although Munich has many clubs of various sorts, the long-running Backstage is probably the best of its live venues.
Founded in 1991 and having moved a few times, it remains a constant hot spot for good cheap beer and top punk, metal, hip hop, reggae, alternative, rock, electronic, and independent music from all over the world.

The reason I like to draw attention to the Backstage rather than other music venues such as the Feierwerk, Zenith, Tonhalle, Strom, or Optimolwerke is simple: it is easy to get to, has an atmosphere like no other, and is extremely consistent.
The Backstage is multiple venues in one: a small outdoor stage in the summer, a small two level room called the Club, a medium sized venue called the Hall, and the largest venue they call the Werk.

Every summer the Backstage has a series of concerts known as the “free & easy festival.” Although titled as a festival, it really is just a series of normal concerts which are completely free and absolutely ideal for the casual fan or non-committal friend.
2018’s festival lineup includes The Mahones, Helmet, Hatebreed, and Municipal Waste.
A map, as well as S-bahn, tram, and bus directions can be found here.

Munich’s Cadet Carter in the Club at Backstage recently
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