It's always fun to head out and explore new clubs and my first visit to the Lager House was no exception. I've been in the place before, when the Tigers still played at the old ballpark on Michigan and Trumbull, but time has passed this area by. The Tigers are now at Comerica Park and the old neighborhood bars in the area are hanging on. Lately the Lager House has started booking live bands and this Friday night provided the perfect opportunity to renew this old acquaintance. As you drive by the old ballpark, there doesn't seem to be much life but old hangouts such as Nemo's, the Express Bar and Casey's are all still open for business. Parking at the Lager House can found on Michigan or in the lot in back. As I walk through the door I am overwhelmed by the sounds of the Dead Kennedys blaring throughout the bar. The place is packed and there isn't even a cover charge - I really think that I'm going to like this place !!!!
The Lager House is basically divided into two rooms - the front has the bar and the second room contains the area where the bands play. The walls are still covered with all sorts of Tiger memorabilia and this place has that familiar and friendly feeling that you can only find in some historic old bars in Detroit. I got there early enough to catch the entire Intoxicats set. They're a 4-piece band that plays a raucous, energetic style of music that has a lot of punk in it, as well as some rockabilly influences. The crowd just loves the band and I find myself cheering along after every song. The Intoxicats are also featured on the great "Detroit Punk City" compilation, which can be found around the local record stores as well as behind the bar at the Lager House. After this great preview, I'm sure that I'll be finding myself at the Lager House quite often.