242 Chengfu Lu, Haidian, Beijing
TEL: (10) 6265 3177
http://www.d22beijing.com.cn/
Since its opening in 2006, D-22 had become one of the capitals for Beijing's avant guard rock scene. I've heard a lot about it and finally had the chance to check it out. It is situated around two of Beijing's biggest Universities: Tsinghua and Peking. The slightly run down entrance reminsce the divish style of its kind in the West. You have to pay a small cover to get in, typically around 40RMB (30RMB for students).
As you walk in, the whole place is dark but you can spot the center stage right away. There is a long bar with stools on your left and some small tables and sitting room on your right. A small tiled dance floor by the front of the stage is available for those who want to move with the music. There is also a second floor for those who want to view the performance from above. The interior gave vibes of a dive with its painted walls and a handful of poster of bands that played there before. The setting is very relaxed and the atmosphere is always filled with some anticipation on what is going on next. The clientele is a mixture of foreigners and young local students seeking for a night of good music.
The drinks are modestly priced at 15RMB for a pint of Beijing Beer. The night I was there wasn't overly packed but there were enough people to fill most spots. The owner, Michael, was also there that night, enjoying the music while downing a few drinks. Back home, I do hit these places for shows from time to time and I have to say that D-22 is quite authentic. The bands that played here is a mixture of foreign bands as well as local bands from Beijing, Xian and the rest of China. As for any new and experimental bands, the quality is really hit and miss. I think it's best to check out D-22's website for who's playing before heading there for the night.
D-22 is a great venue to check out Beijing's underground rock scene.
A few photos:
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