Sully's Pub: Hartford's Best Live Music Venue

Sully's Pub is where music lives in Hartford. Just a quick turn off I-84 and a stone's throw from Hartt School of Music at the University of Hartford, Sully's has a long history of featuring the best new talent in the state.

Two levels of winding hang-outs and a sprawling outdoor patio create the perfect spot for meeting up, catching up and letting waves of original live sounds wash over long nights year round.

Inside, the first floor is split by a short staircase were patrons can sit and enjoy full view of Sully's small stage. Likely, it's standing room only as the sounds that emanate from the infamous stage draw word-of-mouth crowds that rarely sit still amid the funky grooves.

The spirits flow generously from a seasoned staff and convivial owners. The sometimes tight quarters mix up music goers, sound system and talent in a laid back, welcoming vibe.

Cover charge is inconsequential compared to the level of originality and impressive music line-ups. Local favorites with national followings like Deep Banana Blackout, Mark Mercier, Jamoe, the Samples, the Bomb Squad, Skip "Little Axe" McDonald and Doug Wimbish of Tackhead have all brought their unique, crowd-pleasing vibes to Sully's Pub stage.

Although stage front can get crowded there's room for everybody and always a way to escape to the outdoor Tiki Bar for fresh air and cold drinks. Summertime brings longs afternoons amid the bamboo and palms that spread across the backyard patio over plenty of tables. In winter, Sully's keep the outdoors warm with a heated tent.

Upstairs offers cushy seating around a prominent pool table where the downstairs vibrations are still within ear shot. An outdoor staircase winds down landings over the Tiki Bar to the ample back decks.

On Monday nights cover is free and Sully's hosts an acoustic open mike that opens a forum of spontaneous good vibes. Local musicians and budding talent take their turn to present acoustic originals, spoken word and poetry. The seasoned crowds on these nights are the musically obsessed either pushing their talent, experimenting with ideas or just working up the nerve for their first public appearance.

Open mikes here evoke a welcoming atmosphere as everyone in attendance is hoping to be blown away by a new voice. And that is often the outcome of this confluence of musical ideas and endeavors.

It is the music that has built Sully's reputation but it is the laid-back, unpretentious vibe that keeps the pub's loyal line-ups returning and the crowds lining up. Even with its endless appeal, it's rare to wait in line or pay excessive cover but there are nights where the lure almost exceeds capacity. On those sure to sell out events, go early and grab a slice next door at Lena's where the crowds fill their late night snack appetites.

Year round and week long, Sully's Pub is the best choice for live music that stretches long into the night.