Occupying the once-glittery space at 617 East 7th Street, Holy Mountain took the vintage, dance club vibe of the former Beauty Bar and transformed it into a comfortable, edgy live-music spot, sitting in the midst of the thriving Red River Cultural District.
So, what’s the story behind the name?
“Holy Mountain is a 1973 movie by Alejandro Jodorowsky. It’s also an album by the metal band Sleep,” said General Manager James Taylor. “Both are amazing.”
Since the opening of its doors in October of 2012, Holy Mountain has become a classic among Austin venues. “It has definitely grown, in terms of developing an identity and a reputation as a great room with good character,” Taylor said. “We’ve got some more remodeling plans, post-SXSW, that I think are going to position us to adapt and change with the growth of the Red River Cultural District.”
With a capacity of 230 people, Holy Mountain is a perfect size to host a variety of shows comfortably.
James Taylor Photo by Maurice Eagle
“We can host smaller, new local bands who are still trying to cut their teeth, do sold out Red Bull Sound Select, Transmission or C3 shows, or big underplays during SXSW and other festivals,” Taylor said. “When it’s packed, it’s rowdy and fun, and on a slower night, it doesn’t look painfully empty.”
When asked to describe Holy Mountain in one word, Taylor chose ‘respect.’
“I think bands respect the club and our staff respects the bands,” he said.
Open every night, Holy Mountain hosts a variety of acts, including live music every Tuesday through Sunday and stand-up comedy on Monday nights. Happy Hour is from 6-8 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday and all night on Sunday and Monday.
Coming up this month, on March 21st, Holy Mountain will be hosting a “Best of Austin” SXSW party. The free event will feature all local bands from 12-7 p.m.
