The original Lafayette’s was a small venue that hosted some big names getting their start in the 1970’s. These names include Billy Joel, Big Star, KISS, Barry Manilow, and Leon Russell. It reopened 38 years after closing in the 70s. The venue features tables spread out on the floor for the audience to sit down to eat and drink during the show. This is similar to BB Kings Blues Club, Rum Boogie Café, and City Winery.

Smile Empty Soul originated in Santa Clarita, California in 1998. They now call Los Angeles their home. At 830, they take the stage, which is a bit on the early side for them.

Late in the set, they play “Silhouettes” from their 2003 self titled debut album. “I don’t wanna live like my mother / I don’t wanna let fear rule my life / And I don’t wanna live like my father / I don’t wanna give up before I die”. This is such a powerful song about hoping for a better life than your parents.

At the end of their set, they play “Bottom of a Bottle”, also from their debut album, which has over 61 million streams on Spotify. “I do it for the drugs / I do it just to feel alive / I do it for the love / That I get from the bottom of a bottle”. What a fantastic chorus that the crowd happily shouts along with the band.  This song still sounds just as great as it did 20 years ago.

Cost of a ticket: $25

PlaylistHQ Economic Rating: Worth It +

Rating Scale: Exceptional Value > Worth It > Half Price > Go for Free > Don’t Bother

Quinn Delaney