The Carrboro and Chapel Hill music scene boomed in the early '90s when bands such as Pearl Jam, the Dave Matthews Band, Smashing Pumpkins, Nirvana and countless others played the stage at the Cat's Cradle. But although it isn't all that it used to be, the Cradle is still the only venue is town (and one of only a few in the Triangle) with the ability to draw national acts.

These days, the biggest bands the stage sees are the Sex Police, Acoustic Syndicate and Tift Merritt, and not even everyone knows of them. Still, this place doesn't just dish out a bunch of so-so bands; it has a reputation of attracting the best in national and local acts from indie rock and punk to jam bands and singer-songwriters. Its nitty-gritty feel is reminiscent of a basement, but the space is equipped with a small bar at the back and a modest stage at the other end. A bit of bench seating is about all you'll find, so wear comfy shoes and plan to stand.

Categories: Arts Organizations & Information

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