Mic check time. On Wed., Dec. 1, iconic music club The Crocodile opens the doors to its brand new Belltown location, a 30,000 sqft. entertainment complex that dwarfs the original in size and scope, with 50 percent more capacity and its own hotel. 🎸

Those who were in Seattle for the grunge era no doubt have Sierra Nevada-soaked memories of the Croc’s divey roots. Soon after making its debut on 2nd Ave. in April of 1991, the venue became part of rock history, hosting legendary bands such as Pearl Jam, Soundgarden + Nirvana (Kurt Cobain was apparently a fan of the club’s pinball machine).

When leasing issues and the pandemic shutdown in 2020 forced a move, the owners found an opportunity to revamp the old El Gaucho/Big Picture space a few blocks away, and really took things up a notch.

The result is four venues in one: the main showroom, Madame Lou’s (a space for punk shows and dance parties), Here-After (a 100-seat comedy club, theater, + bar opening in January), and The Society (a cafe serving up craft cocktails and street food). There’s even a 17-room modern hotel with decor from local artists and concerts that stream in the lobby.

Beyond all those bells, whistles, and guitar distortion, there’s also a solid lineup of shows on the horizon. Here are some highlights that’ll rock your socks off. 🤘

🎟️ Dial Up | Fri., Dec. 3 | 10 p.m. | $10 | It’s a dance party at Madame Lou’s, with Cell Phones + DJ Wifi for the full tech name spectrum.

🎟️ The Murder City Devils | Sun., Dec. 5 | 7 p.m. | $30 | What better way to break in the new digs than with this Seattle-based garage band that brings up 90s nostalgia vibes.

🎟️ A Tribute to Seattle Icons: Chris Cornell + Lane Staley | Sat., Dec. 11 | 5 p.m. | $35 | Cover bands honor the late rock stars.