Bar Review: DCLUB

What: A live music lounge with regular jam nights

Why: You’re looking for a comfortable jam night

How much: Bottled and draft brews RMB 40 – 45; house cocktails RMB 50

Where: DPark, B1, 738 Changyang Lu, near Tongbei Lu. Tel: 5160 7587

In the basement of the gaudy headquarters of a European-run consultancy out in Yangpu, you’ll find DClub, a new live-music bar opened by Philippe Duarte aka Pheel, a local guitarist and singer. If you’re a regular of the jam nights at Beedees or Anar, you’ve probably seen him. Unsatisfied with the quality of the sound at the city’s current jam nights and looking to make a living from his music, Duarte has struck out on his own.

The decoration of the bar is minimal, yet comfortable enough. By the black walls sit plush leather furniture where patrons can enjoy the music. For a bit of flair, dichromatic portraits of famous icons such as Jimi Hendrix, Marilyn Monroe and Ray Charles hang on the walls. The long, neat bar in the middle of the room is accented by the presence of terracotta warriors.

The real focus of the bar is the stage and the music coming from it. Surfaces throughout the room are sound proofed, not only for purity of sound from the bar's dozens of speakers, but also to create an atmosphere where the band isn’t overwhelming. Patrons have the option of sitting up close to the bar and taking in the music, or hanging in the back where they can talk easily without shouting.

DCLUB is a promising entry into Shanghai’s nightlife scene, but its greatest challenge will be its far-flung Yangpu District location. At the moment, the bar is only open from Thursday through Sunday, hoping to lure customers with a free drink for ladies on Thursday, drinks specials on Friday and a free drink rebate with cab receipts of RMB 40 or more on Saturday and Sunday.