If we asked you to describe your favorite bar, you’d get around to the jukebox before too long. Its quirky collections of songs–handpicked by the management, perhaps with some input from regulars–is the aural essence of the bar’s character.
That’s why we’re unnerved by the growing popularity of satellite jukeboxes. Sure, their ability to access a mind-blowing database of songs gives you an incredible number of options. But do you really want some drunken interloper blowing the vibe at your corner pub by dialing up an unholy trinity of Beyonce, Brahms and the Beatles?
Say no to indiscriminate streaming audio at these bars with jukeboxes that are as unique as they are.
Delilah’s
It’s hard to believe that a bar this good remains relatively undiscovered. Not only does it have around 200 liquors and 100 beers (including seasonal picks, microbrews and hard-to-find imports), but the jukebox here is one of the best around. That is, if you’re a fan of the hard stuff: AC/DC, Social Distortion, Faint, Ramones, Mooney Suzuki, Stooges, The Jam and Dead Kennedys. Even local acts get their due: The Dishes and Wesley Willis both make the list. 2771 N. Lincoln Ave. 773-472-2771.
Darwin’s
Here’s a noble evolution in the jukebox world: Support local musicians. Darwin’s owner Matt Miller does his part by making sure half of the discs in his 96-disc jukebox are by local acts (signed or unsigned). What better way to keep it real in Bucktown? Bring your band’s CD to the bar and, odds are, you’ll find it in the jukebox by your next visit. (If your music draws complaints from customers, the bar reserves the right to 86 it.) Darwin’s serves some interesting grub (ever try a pumpkin-wasabi corn dog?), and it’s rigged for wireless Internet access. Pull up a chair, sample a tasty microbrew, surf the Web, and listen to the best and worst of Chicago bands. 1935 N. Damen Ave. 773-772-3719.
Aliveone
If the vintage rock posters and concert photos that cover the walls at this Lincoln Park hang don’t tip you off that you’re in a music-lover’s lair, the jukebox sure will. And as the bar’s name would imply, the theme here is live recording. There’s everything from the hippie-dippie Phish to punk greats Television. But the most popular spins of late have been Radiohead’s 2001 live recording, “I Might Be Wrong” and David Bowie’s “Bowie at Beeb,” a collection of tracks Bowie recorded for BBC Radio. 2683 N. Halsted St. 773-348-9800.
Gold Star Bar
This Division Street dive bar is likely where most folks first encountered $2 Old Style bottles. The jukebox is as varied as your home collection. Drown your sorrows in Etta James, Nina Simone, Tom Waits or Neil Young. Pick yourself back up with Sabbath, Black Flag, Thin Lizzy or New York Dolls. And put music geeks in their place with Link Wray or Tomahawk. 1755 W. Division St. 773-227-8700.
Simon’s Tavern
At this homey (and slightly grubby) Andersonville bar, you can expect to find great microbrews on tap and an interesting mix of hip and not-so-hip customers. The juke is equally eclectic: Sinatra for the Chairman-inclined, Kiss Alive for retro rockers, and the emo-band-of-the-moment for the terminally glum. Any bar jukebox that spins Frank Zappa and Wilco is worth a drink. Look for Simon’s neon fish sign. And bring a wad of singles. 5210 N. Clark St. 773-878-0894.
