4215 E. Columbus Drive, Tampa, 813-621-6793, transtionsartgallery.com
Transitions, part of the Skate Park of Tampa complex, is one of the smaller venues around town, but this works to its advantage. Management books bands, mostly punk-based, from grindcore to experimental, that might not otherwise have a place to play in the Bay area. The space, with black walls (red behind the smallish stage), also doubles as an art gallery that consistently presents quality exhibitions. Transitions, an all-ages venue catering largely to a loyal audience of alt-youth, sells water and soda. If you want anything else, BYOB.
Memories Ian MacKaye of Fugazi led a new band, The Evens, through an amazing, intimate set to a completely packed room back in 2004 — so full that people had to sit on the stage with the band so everyone could fit in. MacKaye led the audience in several sing-alongs throughout set. It was a once-in-a-lifetime chance for many to be this close to the legendary and humble DIY pioneer.
Capacity: about 100Grub: None Booze: BYOB
Next big show: Radon/Lemuria/Grabass Charlestons/VaginaSore Jr., Dec. 27
