CLUB REVIEW : The Roxy: For Live Music, It’s Hot, Happening, Hip

If you had a nickel for every kid who moved to Hollywood from Podunk with dreams of playing the Roxy, you could buy the Sunset Strip club.

As with the Whisky, the allure of West Hollywood’s Roxy is intertwined with the history of rock ‘n’ roll itself. Opening in September of 1973 with a performance by Neil Young, the Roxy is still one of the best venues to see live music in L.A.--technically speaking. Club-goers are offered theater-type facilities--great sound, terrific lighting, excellent sight lines--but in a much more intimate setting.

Socially, though, the Roxy’s about as warm as Ebenezer Scrooge on payday. Make no mistake about it, this is a showcase space, not a meeting place--no ornate bars, pool tables or quiet nooks allowing folks a chance to talk about the weather.

When a national act is passing through, expect an uncomfortable dose of standing room only, and bespectacled folks be warned: Don’t be surprised if your glasses steam up with the sweat and heat generated by 400 or more bodies bopping in unison.

The fact is, no matter how good a show one witnesses, bee-lining for the door before the encore to catch some air is a year-round tradition. A conversation between patrons at a recent Reverend Horton Heat show: “If we started a club with a really good air-conditioning system, we’d rule!� The date: a wintry Dec. 19.

* The Roxy, 9009 Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, all ages, cover varies, (310) 276-2222.