A unique concept that combined a cycling shop with a pub and live-music venue, the Neptune came of age during the late-’90s heyday of alternative Tampa Bay music; fans from all over the region made the drive to see their friends take the stage at this (for most of us) out-of-the-way destination. As the last local original-music boom went, well, bust, live rooms everywhere shifted their focus or just plain closed. But the Neptune soldiered on, nurturing a loyal all-ages crowd with quality punk, emo and posthardcore bills that continue to this very day. Bay area indie aficionados who find themselves disinterested in the usual Ybor City or downtown St. Pete fare might want to remember the scene that seems to be alive and well where Pinellas and Pasco Counties meet. 13 S. Safford Ave., Tarpon Springs, 727-943-5713, neptunelounge.com
