The Middle East
864-EAST
472 Mass Ave.
Directions: Take the red line to Central Square. Exit on Mass Ave. and walk a few blocks. The clubs are straight ahead of you on the corner, adjacent to each other.
Boston's premier places to see indie bands. The Donnas, Sleater-Kinney, Pavement, Bis, Juliana Hatfield and even the Mighty Mighty Bosstones have played here. Two separate stages (upstairs and downstairs) means twice the music at the Middle East, though upstairs tends to be smaller, more obscure bands. T.T.'s features alternative concerts in a small, intimate venue. Dress is flexible and casual, but for many concerts attire is strictly indiekid hip; bring out your Converse Hi-Tops and faded '80s t-shirts to go with your dark-rimmed glasses.