Soma

This all-ages venue is serious about its no-alcohol tolerance, making it the premiere spot in San Diego for underage fans to fulfill their guaranteed right to listen to live music. Toward that end, visitors find that the powers-that-be are serious about stuff such as the dress code (no racist or gang-affiliated wear), as well as their commitment to showcasing unsigned and local bands. There's room aplenty for moshing -- the main hall holds a whopping 2,400 bodies, while the side room can comfortably accommodate up to 500. The cover charge is usually under $10, and tickets can be purchased in advance online or at Music Trader, Lou's Records and Blue Meannie Records (limited numbers are available at SOMA's box office on weekends and through Ticketmaster).

While the style and quality of showcased music varies, you can usually count on an underground vibe that darn near makes the place vibrate with energy. Since a number of bands typically share the stage on a given night, just wait a few minutes if you don't like a group -- it'll change. Doors typically open at 7:30PM, with the opening band starting by 8PM. The folks behind SOMA are committed to "teaching new talent how to market and progress through the industry," as well as "showing people, through example, that having a good time does not require the use of drugs and/or alcohol." Rock on. -- Julene Snyder