Best venue for all things DIY and a great spot to express yourself been going here more frequently than ever for local shows and have had one hell of an experience would recommended anyone looking forward to having a actual genuine show memory to come here amazing spot and people at the front are chill read more

STEPH JUDGEMENT: An LA institution for all-ages art/performance. I have very mixed feelings about this place. On the one hand, great that they've been able to provide an affordable performance venue in DTLA, especially for the younger crowd, for 25+ years running--massive props for that. On the other hand, there's a reason why it's affordable and why it's called The Smell, lol. The entrance is in a very dodgy-looking alley with a perpetually smelly dumpster. The venue itself is quite large, but the sound isn't great and concessions consist of candy and soda (no bar). I saw "coffee" on the menu so I thought I'd get a cup of that but on the night I was there bo one seemed to know how to make any so I just settled for a la croix and skittles. My friends and I were there to catch a particular band, and it was great to see them in a small venue like that, but I'd never go there to just hang out. read more

My kid loved this place. I have to drop her off and pick her up from there all the time.

I went to a show here once and fainted, the band didn't stop playing, multiple people in the crowd looked at me And then went back to looking at the band Not to mention the people that worked there witnessed this and didn't bother to pick me up... nor did they give me a water bottle or call an ambulance on my way out with my friends carrying me I was only 17 at the time man just a child.... Do better for the safety of the people supporting you BOOOF ASS Venue also it really do smell terrible there so the name is accurate read more

Best lo-fi and cheap all-ages punk rock venue in this land. Lots of smaller and local bands playing. I've seen so many shows here, of all qualities. The venue is very focused on being "under 18" friendly, and has all the hallmarks of that, including $1 water bottles or tea, cheap snacks, cheap earplugs, etc. They aren't here to churn a profit, but to support a scene, and specifically one of those spaces that very much supports the youth in that regards. After shows end they don't immediately shut down and kick out folks (and kids) into the streets, but are open long enough to allow kids a place to hang and get picked up, if they are waiting for rides. High recommend. read more

This is just a really cool and unique small DIY venue. They've had some yummy popups here and great artists that you can't see just anywhere. People working here are volunteers and I truly appreciate everyone that's worked here. I really hope this place lasts for a long time because it means a lot to artists and visitors alike. read more

Oh boy, The Smell is very obvious and that smell is urine.... went to see a band here, snacks available, dirty couches to sit on, sound system was dreadful..... has potential if it were cleaned up, inside and out. ‍ read more

The Smell is the most iconic DIY space for punks, indie kids, and artists in Los Angeles. It's a place for community, self-expression, progressive values, and having fun. It's also non-profit, volunteer run, and all-ages. What to expect: Vegan snacks for sale Library w/ books, zines, etc Jim's cute dogs Local music & art It's been around for 24 years now, and hopefully it continues to thrive for many more decades. read more

I can't tell you anything much different from the other reviewers. You know the basics - it's cheap, it's in an alley, it gets rather stuffy, and you can buy earplugs, water, and vegan cupcakes on any given night. The entire building is tagged and the chairs are donated from dead cars. I was once told (rumor) that the building that houses the Smell was once owned by Andy Warhol. I wouldn't be surprised. Stranger things have been true. If you want to experience... then come to this venue. I'm not going to tell you what to come here expecting to experience. Simply attend with an open mind and open heart willing to experience. read more

The Smell - one of two restrooms - Music Venues Near Me - Los Angeles, California

absolutely awesome I was in the pit for the first time today I kinda sucked but the show was awesome and the people were super nice!!

This place smells and that's a fact and it freaking RULLLLZ!!!!! Love this place, go see a great show there!

Tonight I visited this sweet spot that hosts cool gigs. I'm sure this place has booked tons of new and classic sounds. I could already tell by the murals, stickers, and random displays. I genuiinely did love the grungey realness surrounding me. Didn't expect it to be a dry venue, but hey some people get crazy under the influence. Also, I could totally understand crowd control when it comes to such an intimate space (with little ventilation). Plus side: it is so rad to see real musicians jam heavy on their instruments. The sound is a little overwhelming, but that is what true rock and roll (indie, metal, funk, etc.) is about- being totally immersed in a bands creativite process and production. Kudos to all the up and comer's out there, for all their bravery and relentless creativity. The Smell gives these bands the opportunity to express all that. Doorman could be nicer THO. Wouldn't necessarily come back unless I knew who was playing. read more

The Smell - Sweet little nostalgic lion stamp- oh to be 18 once upon a time. AT least they don't do GIANT x's on your hand. - Music Venues Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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This is probably one of the coolest music venues I've ever been too. It was too cool for school. You enter through the back... so when you're in front, walk through the parking lot, turn right, and the entrance is there. Yes, it does smell. That alleyway can be sketch because there are homeless people wandering around. This venue doesn't have a bar and it's all ages. This venue is pretty unique. read more

Smells outside and inside. *thumbs up* I mean, why keep it in this state? Just because it's punk rock? Come on. Clean it up! Pressure wash this place down. Don't worry, it'll still be punk rock enough!! It IS pretty cool for them to keep this place running for small acts and shows and keep it all ages. The sound was like a garage because it is a garage. And it's smelly. :D read more

Ah man, weird review for me. Up to about 4 years or so ago I would've given it 10 stars! Street parking WAS shady (our car got broken into 4 out of the first 5 times i went here, then i learned it's worth it to give the bums a couple bucks to watch your car for you). It really DID smell (the maggots lined the back alleyway about an inch thick and you'd always come home with human feces on your shoes). You could drink, see all your friends, not have to worry about adults or lights or anything that resembles civilization interfering with your punk utopia. I used to get a ride up from Orange County every few weeks to see some new awesome touring band. Then Dystopia played to a crowd much too big for the Smell. Riot cops swarmed the place, police helicopters everywhere, cops closing the streets down and using their cars as giant battering rams to push all the punks onto the streets of downtown. I didn't get into the show, and yeah, I was pissed as hell at the time! But looking back on things, it was probably just as exciting outside as it was inside. I came here a couple weeks ago and it's a whole different ballgame. Streetlights lined the streets. You had to pay an actual attendant for parking. Girls were walking around in dresses and heels! And what scared me the most was the candlelit sidewalk dining going on at the restaurant across the street!! I would've NEVER predicted ANY of that from the Skid Row Smell I once knew and loved. And it's not just the area that's changing, but the Smell has changed a lot as well. Pretty strict No Alcohol policy. I don't think they really book any punk/crust/hardcore bands anymore. There's a definite Smell scene comprised of bands like No Age and Mika Miko - and it seems like those two bands (or members of those bands) play every single show. It's still kind of fun and it's a great little scene they got there, it's just not really my thing anymore. Still a much better place to see a band than any other legal venue in Southern California though, but that's not saying much. read more

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The smell is a hidden gem! It's name can be a little scary but it is a great music venue, one of my favorites. I was apprehensive when I approached the entrance ( because it is in an alley way in the middle of downtown LA) but once inside I could tell it was a really chill place. It is easy to find restaurants near by for food before or after any show. I recommend pitfire pizza or badmaash. You could even walk to little Tokyo! There is plenty if other nighttime activity going around around The Smell which gave me extra security. Between bands people hang out in the alley to smoke and chill. While in the alley you get a glimpse of a lot of cool nighttime LA activity. My favorite aspect of this venue is there all ages all of the time rule. There are so many 21+ shows, which bums me out but I can always rely on The Smell. Another cool thing is that all of the tickets are $5! Nice! The only thing that worries me is that you cannot buy your tickets ahead of time so you run the risk of the show being sold out. So I recommend getting there early because a lot of shows actually do sell out. The scene here is very young and depending on the band it can get very crazy in here. I saw Coachwhips preform and it was intense; I still have bruises. Out of all the venues I have gone to, there is none like the smell. It is a super rad, casual place to hang out with friends and see an awesome inexpensive show. *go to the bathroom before hand! I would not trust the bathroom here (just look at the photos)!! read more

The Smell - Infamous bathroom - Music Venues Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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this is mikes daughter. I'm 12, and he brought me here. It was way too loud and chaotic. I thought I was gonna die in there. it was not my thing, but good for teens/adults who like punk rock stuff. good for what it is in, just not my thing at all. there was a rage circle thingie and it was very chaotic and people were pushing each other and growling read more

The Smell is a unique venue with an equally unique crowd. The time we came there was a fashion show where every competitor was wearing a dress and judged by the volume of the crowd's cheering. http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/the-smell-los-angeles?userid=4MHFQcFfHzVe4ISx3lvHlw#LEcUQ0vAtcCHSqT-QUj3Qw Mind you girls AND guys were competing. With regards to music taste, we came to see bands such as Pizza. A devoted fan even waved a large pizza box in the air as they were playing... dedication man. They serve hot green tea for $1 in the back but mind you NO alcohol is served. There used to be a hobo that acted as a security guard for years but was recently arrested (article on LA Times) and he used to guard the smell and accompany people to their cars in order to protect them. Turns out he always had a knife (or machete) under his coat... now is it really a surprise he got arrested... But he still added to the unique atmosphere of the Smell. Cover is around $10 I believe? Standard. Small venue however, don't expect a huge auditorium. read more

The Smell - A guy wearing a dress at the smell - Music Venues Near Me - Los Angeles, California

All ages venue that hosts some killer artists and bands!! Welcoming staff, cool atmosphere, and friendly people. The sound is pretty good and it can get really hot inside, but you're always welcomed back in. Restrooms are there, a little bar that has waters and more is available, as well as, thrifted clothing, books to read, and more. There is sooo much art all around you and the smell is pretty weird but super fun. Shows are usually $5 unless it says otherwise on their website. Check it out! read more

The only knock on The Smell is how hot it gets inside when bands are playing. Seriously, shorts and a tank top is the way to go when inside or you will sweat like a damn fool. But anyways, I got to check out Retox here and it was a blast. The stage is high, the sound is not really great, it's SO LOUD but what's not to love about an DIY drug and alcohol free venue for up and coming bands to perform for punk/hardcore/indie/experiemental fans of all ages. Now that DFL has reunited hopefully they play here soon. read more

This place was fucking awesome last night. Came here to see The High Curbs, Hexed, The Chonks, and Daylake ! All bands were great and very unique. The pits were awesome. Has the right amount of people for the place inside. It's pretty cool in there. you get to feel the A/C if your not moshing of course. The lights might be a bother for some people's eyes when the bands play. They go crazy flashing on an off fucking fast but it's perfect and awesome !!! If you go here, make sure once you see " Not Our President" , go to the left where you see an " ATM " and there's a parking lot/alley. you go in and make a right and you'll see people out side of The Smell as well. Some people including myself had troubles finding it, but we found it quickly . read more

The Smell - Music Venues Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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attended one of the best concerts of my life at this place. friendly staff, cool vibes, and just an overall welcoming environment. read more

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Mika Miko break up :( http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/music_blog/2009/10/mika-miko-is-breaking-up.html Already one of my favorite bands ever, this will only add to their legend. Thanks ladies. It was a blast. read more

The Smell - Mika Muthafuckin Miko. It was fun gals. - Music Venues Near Me - Los Angeles, California

The best experience ever.I loved it It was very must a night to remember!!!! I would recommend

Note: I saw the "Super Serious Show" here during the Riot Comedy Festival and it was 5-STARS and FANTASTIC. Unfortunately, it was held in The Smell, one of the worst excuses for a comedy venue I've ever seen. The Smell may be your thing if you're seeing an up and coming punk or death metal band, but that's about it. There is no air conditioning, which left the shows standing room only crowd sweating profusely as they witnessed what one comedian called "Bikram Comedy." What kind of respectable venue post the invention of the ceiling fan would not have some way to cool its audience? It felt like we were trapped in an oven that was slowly heating its way to 451. By the end, I was a sweaty, sloppy mess. Add to the list that this is in the middle of a bad neighborhood where you are bound to be harassed by someone on the street, and I see little reason why anyone would want to book a performance here. Fortunately, the comedy show was so fantastic I was able to see past the venues many shortcomings. read more

This place makes me feel old, but not necessarily in a bad way. Some bars, clubs, and venues make me feel old in that I want to suck the youth out of the people around me. The Smell makes me fondly remember my youth, going to basement shows and trying to flirt with awkward girls with messy hair and second-hand shirts, and listening to music that was as exciting as it was incomprehensible. Everyone here is nice, in a way that makes one rethink a blanket statement maligning young Angeleno hipsters. It's cheap, and while it's plastered with Brooklyn-art and emo t-shirt drawings, it's not bad to look at. It's definitely like going to a basement show in New Jersey more than a seedy underground club like many people probably think it is, which I think is a pretty great thing having grown up on basement shows. I came to see my best friend's brother's band Skeletons who were actually pretty fucking great, had my bottle of water, and went on my way in search of the one thing I didn't enjoy in my youth: alcohol. I have no idea when I'll be here again, but I'm really glad to know it's there. read more

Haven't been to Coachella and want the experience without the hassle of traveling to Indio? Come here for a concert, close your eyes and imagine being surrounding by mountains instead of concrete walls. And, hey, you won't drop as much coin on your admission. Bring earplugs (unless you are hellbent on losing your hearing). Admission is cheap. There's a reason for that: no alcoholic bevvies are served here and atmosphere is bare bones. Solution - hit up a nearby bar before heading inside. Juice/water/soda is available as well as some snackies. Dress as if it's 100 degree weather because you are gonna get warm. It is majorly hot inside once the bands get going. There are some well worn couches in the foyer but, the performance area is standing room only (wear comfy shoes chickies, the floor is cement). If you like assigned seating and full bar availability when you see musical acts, this place is clearly not for you, but if you want to see indie bands and can survive without ventilation for an hour long set, venture down the alley to this concrete wonderland. FYI: all ages and cash only. read more

Coming from Brooklyn, I was anxious to see what the underground scene had to offer in LA. The Smell is a really cool room. It's long and cavernous, so the drums sound great! Despite the fact that there is no alcohol, I was delighted by the green tea I was able to procure for a mere dollar. I have to admit, the threat of an impromptu mosh pit was a bit more frightening with a steaming cup of tea in my hand. In BK, we only have to worry about flying beer cans... The music was edgy, but if you're not into punky, trashy, lo-fi, hipster music, this might not be the place for you. The show I saw culminated in a collection of trollish looking women playing their instruments badly and throwing garbage on the audience. Provocateurs or idiots? A matter of taste I suppose. read more

Whoever does the booking for this venue deserves a 1000 high fives for a job well done. They are consistently bringing in amazing music featuring both well known and up-and-coming acts. You really can go there on a night when you have no idea who is playing and be sure that you will see something either fantastic or at the very least interesting. Yes, it does smell like the inside of a porta potty and the temperature can rise to oven-like temperatures during the more crowded shows, but I kind of think that adds to the experience. You become more then just an single observer of a show...you become part of a unified giant, sweaty organism (ok, that sounds gross, but it's also kind of true). NOTE that they DO NOT serve alcohol here. So either pack a flask or hit Bar 107 before you go in! They do sell some food as well as cold and hot drinks (ya, serving hot drinks in a hot venue was kind of a weird choice...but I once drank some English tea there while watching a punk show and it was actually quite delightful). read more

I give The Smell 3 stars just for the fact that it's in a gritty alleyway & you can catch some pretty good bands here. I've seen Babyland & Japanther and the Japanther show was probably the second time I've....felt...old...(???). Yes, I agree with another Yelper that if you are over the age of 25 (I'm thirty-mmmmmm) you will definitely feel.......old. But it's all about no age, right? When this hipster hip-hop chick (Samiya???) started "spittin'" rhymes, I actually had a flashback of standing in the cypher in my VCU days. Some of these kids were probably dropped off at the venue while mom & dad boozed it up at Pete's. Like I said, it's all about the no age. The sound quality is not the greatest & at times you may get a whiff of BIT - butt & pit - but by the end of the night, you will have discovered your new favorite band. The scene is a little "ehhh" to me due to the emo teen angst & overly-hipsterized peeps that were attending. People started dancing in the circle during Japanther & some other band that had a rock-a-billy punk sound. I was digging the energy of this one kid who danced like he had an epileptic seizure - he was feeling it for sure! If you are over 25, knock down a few drinks to forget about your age. read more

How has no one reviewed this place yet?!?! Great small venue in the middle of downtown Los Angeles. Scary to park your car but it's great seeing so many smiling faces inside (or outside smoking)! They've had some amazing bands play here over the years. It seems that in the last few years they've had quite a scene develop here which is really interesting. I don't always feel like I personally "get it" but It's cool seeing what kids are doing now and then. I always feel like the same 5-10 kids are always playing a show here which is a little weird...but people really seem to enjoy it. It's so great a DIY venue like this exists in Los Angeles, especially one with so much great history. Jim, the owner is an amazing person and it's incredible that he's done so much for the Los Angeles music scene. It is so much more satisfying to see a show here as opposed to the Echo or anywhere else in the LA area. read more

Are you a square like me who wants to feel alternative and punk rock? Are you just too busy being a productive member of society to figure out where a good band is playing? Are you such a goody two shoes that you have three of them? Come to the Smell and you'll automatically feel like you're a member of the subculture, like you always wanted. I sound like I'm being sarcastic, but look at my stars. I'm not. It should be noted that both times I've come here I've seen acts that involved a lone man, a microphone and a backing band consisting of a sole stereo. One was a hardcore act and the other was hiphop. So don't expect to be blown away by production value, is all I'm saying. read more

Yes, 5 stars, I love Jim Smith, I love the Smell and I have amazing memories of playing here, meeting people here, hanging out at the tranny bar, puking in the alley. Ah, makes me feel a little nostalgic. And old. My favorite Smell memory was when Daniel pulled a machete out of his pants and simultaneously farted. But he made it up to me by presenting me with a "diamond necklace and earring combo". The scene changes over the years, but is largely overrun by the young'uns. Its awesome and I hope that shitty Drakkar smellin' gentrified yuppie bar doesn't run it out of town. If so, I'll be the chick in flicking pennies at the dudes in polyester flame shirts from the second story parking lot. By the way, there is a second bathroom, so you can bring your rich sister and her friends so they don't have to bitch about the bathroom situation. But don't bring your flogging molly east coast cousin who will get drunk and try to be witty about bringing in his Tall Can. Shit won't fly. read more

I like this place...it's in a raunchy back alley downtown LA. Been there once and saw some good bands. But there are 3 downers. no alcohol served one unisex bathroom with no lock (yes I've been walked in on while parting in relief ...by guys..twice) I felt like the oldest person in the room But other than that...keep hope alive! read more

I'm sorry but f this place. We showed up at 830 for what was supposed to be a 9pm show, the 17yr old stoner at the door told us they weren't ready yet and to come back in about 30 minutes, so we went around the corner to some non descript bar and killed some time, we returned about 10 to find that no one was there and the bands were just setting up. Guys I understand you're running an underground space and you know sticking it to the man and all, but at the end of the day you have to get your heads together and make things happen. read more

This small venue has hosted some of the funnest shows I've ever been to. Weather it's folk, indie, surf, or experimental, this place quickly turns shows into a punk rock mess. Parking in itself is very accessible, hence there are 3 different parking lots right next to The Smell. Upon arrival you will notice there are typically plenty of teens, age always varies,(between 16-25 yr olds) usually hanging in the alley before the show. Whatever the case, take this in mind if your planning to smoke or bring liquor there (plan harder). Of all the years going back never has there been an issue in regards to the general crowds of teens waiting to see there favorite band. If you want to do some exploring before the show there is a great pizza place around the corner as well as a park down the street, great for relaxing and getting a good glimpse of DownTown LA. As for inside there are a couple couches and benches in the front portion of the building. They conveniently have a snack bar set up where you can purchase water, coffee, tea, chips, music, etc. Right by the couch area there is also a zine section up for grabs put up by the local zinesters. Now as for the restrooms, yes they are literally covered in graffiti art, inside you'll see years and years of people's writing literally everywhere. This doesn't mean the restroom itself is dirty, it's what any typical public restroom looks like, it's whatever. The actually stage is surprisingly loud. Like all concerts the best place to see the band is upfront, but be prepared to have people stage dive off stage and dance their way to the front(purposely shoving people off so they can see the band too.) Not all shows have to be punk rock but the good ones just are, trust. Overall, this DIY venue is a great spot to go to. There are never any issues as far as venue or people, (except for that one asshole that didn't know how equalize the microphone at that one show.) If you're some lame poser that is scared of an alleyway, graffiti art, vegan snacks, drinking, smoking, and a bunch of chill people, do yourself a favor and stay home. If you're someone who likes to have fun at shows, The Smell is a place to check out. Their website is also always up to date too so make sure you check online for upcoming shows. Regardless of the few changes over the years, The Smell remains one the top venues to go to in LA. read more

Very. So I went and had fun petting dogs. They were seriously such little vibe masters! Anyways we should get more of a variety on gapes. I mean grapes. This place is fun but would be really fun if they offered green maybe red grapes for the people attending. I enjoy a good movie but I don't like popcorn much. I prefer grapes. Has anyone ever tried the edible cookie dough? Seems yumalicious but I am worried about egg product. read more

This is an article I did on the ten year anniversary show. Even though the place has a different feel now as No Age, Mika Miko, and Abe Vigoda blow up and bring in a different crowd it is still one of the few places in Los Angeles that you can see an amazing unknown act, no matter what your age is, for five bucks. Anyhoo without further ado here is my review (see I rhyme too): The first time I visited the Smell was sometime in 2001 or 2002. Not too many memories from that time are very vivid or interesting, but that night was. A few of my older friends dragged me along to see some thrash band, DS13. The alley was crowded with kids that had tons of piercings, tattoos, ratty patches and many other attributes that are connected with gutter punks. I cowered inside to avoid their gazes. As soon as the band started it considerably got hotter, louder and more aggressive with each song. Things have changed considerably since those days. I've gotten a bit older and the kids less scary. Or perhaps I've gotten more so. In 2003 the place was renovated and looks different from its early days. Everything from the bands to the art on the walls to the volunteers make the Smell feel like a community and less like a place that was once just a venue in a scary, dark downtown alleyway. I now have friends that have played there, have artwork up on the wall, plan to volunteer there, want to play there, and on any random night I meet friends of friends who are somehow connected and involved. Even though I wasn't there for the beginning or most of the middle of its 10 years, the Smell will always be a place filled with fond memories. read more

BRING EARPLUGS!!!! Don't get me wrong, I love the Smell. + Good bands play for $5. Free parking in the area plus $.50 for coffee or tea means if I come drunk already I will have spent $6.00 total on a great night of tunes + Good mix of peeps - emo kids looking at their shoes, people stuck on the couches hugging, cute indie girls, people reading eclectic things off the bookshelf, regular ol' folks - everyone is really chill. + Intimate setting and interesting things to look at, even in the bathroom. But man, the accoustics here are really weird. There's one room in the front where bands play and then a small hallway that leads to a bigger room in the back. I think that room in the back is made of pure stone/concrete because the sound bounces around everywhere. Even if you're in the front room chillin, the sound is driven into that room by the tiny hallway. You can't escape the sound. - Screamo bands playing in the room in the back make me wish I didn't have eardrums. + But the plus side is there are some places to grab a drink and wait for the screamo bands to pass (once we hit up a Mexican gay bar for $5 brews and had a really nice time) I wish someone would come in and give this place a little acoustic treatment and it would definitely make it a stellar place to catch a show. read more

To be blunt, this place needs to be renamed to the Suck. Street parking is shady, and I don't mean out of the sun. Honestly, if an earthquake hit LA, this place would not survive... it looks like this place was created by tossing a roof over an alley between two buildings. The acoustics as well as the sound system reflect this structure. Good bands pass through this venue about once or twice a year (I saw Xiu Xiu here with Tara Jane O'Neil), and the rest are typically side projects that don't have the time or extra dinero to book at a place with actual space and creature comforts (wheah mah booze?!). Yes, entry is usually cheap, but you get what you pay for. read more