Back2Basix has always been there to provide a decent live performance venue for bands. I say the word decent very carefully. As a spot, it’s by now means top notch, but its undoubtedly got a character and tradition thats not in need of a fancy coat of paint.

At one stage it called itself a bistro, and i’ve peered into what I believe is a kitchen, but food as never been at the forefront.

We’re calling the Bohemian “the dive bar it’s okay to like”. With five pool tables in the back, and one sweet Jukebox, you could easily loose an entire night to this place. They are one of the few places that isn’t afraid to put completely unknown bands on its stage, yet at the same time, have rather big names in the local scene pull through and play all the time. The bar locals are ones that scribble on all the walls of the toilet (alot of it rather witty), and love some drunken conversation over Rolling Stone’s Paint it black.

I cant believe we telling you about the half priced pizza on monday nights. one of those and a cold draught are close to heaven. Just be careful there, the seats are a little too comfortable. Im afraid that once i’ve sat down, i might not leave until im 40 odd.

5 Park Rd. (Just off Menton Rd ) Richmond/ greater Melville. Closest landmark: The Johannesburg Country Club.

The en suite bar has opened itself up to be a venue for band shows. We don’t recommend you have much to do with the actual hotel. The venue sports some sweet booths for chilling in between bands sets. There hasn’t seemed to be a show there in a while. And it doesn’t strike us a place you can just waltz in without a purpose, so wait for an event.

Find it on Corlette Ave