Mercury Lounge's back room holds about 250 people and has been the first New York stage for more bands than almost any other venue — the Strokes played here before the deal, and the booking policy has stayed stubbornly focused on acts nobody has heard of yet. NYC Indie Night is exactly that premise made explicit: three local bands, one late bill, no headliner you are obligated to wait for. If you like the idea of seeing something before it has a Wikipedia page, this is the cheapest way in.
What to expect
A small standing back room reached through a corridor from the front bar, with the stage low and close. Three bands play short sets in sequence. The front bar stays open throughout if you want a break between sets.
Good to know
- F to 2nd Avenue or J/M/Z to Essex Street; Mercury Lounge is on East Houston
- 21 and over with ID
- The front bar is separate from the music room and stays open all night
- The back room is small — there is no bad spot, but it gets warm
- Merch is sold by the bands directly at the back of the room
- East Houston is easy to leave from late; the F runs all night
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Common questions
How many bands are playing?
Three: SAMSARA., Rohna and Warphole, playing short sets in sequence.
How big is Mercury Lounge?
The back music room holds roughly 250 people, making it one of the smallest booked rooms in the city.
Is there an age restriction?
Mercury Lounge shows are 21 and over. Bring ID.
