Tractor Tavern

10/09/2008 Posted by Ashbetty

Let me preface this by saying I don't get out to live music much these days. I used to live in Austin, Texas and we saw shows all the time there, but it's been a while. That said, I went to the Tractor the other night to see Star Anna perform. She is one of my favorite new artists. I saw that she was performing at the tractor and I bought the tickets online. In every listing I saw, her name was listed last of the three different groups performing, so naturally I assumed she would be the headliner. Music was to start at 9:30, but because we thought she was coming on last, we didn't get there until 9:50. As I approached the club, I could hear that she was already performing. As we entered the place, I observed that the posted list was also showing Star Anna last. I tried to ask the guy at the door about the change in order. I said, "I thought Star Anna was performing last." He said, "You heard wrong." Of course we were shouting above the loud music so it was hard to communicate. I said, "It's not 'what I heard'. It's on your sign out there." He shrugged his shoulders. We went inside and listened to her remaining 5 songs. There was a small group of fans who were clustered around the stage and alot of people hanging around who didn't seem interested in the music as well and were being very loud and chatty while she performed. I couldnt' figure out why they didn't go and hang out in the section by the bar rather than disturb our experience. Overall, it was pretty annoying and I felt disrespected. Even more than that, I felt like the music was being disrespected. It was disappointing.

08/02/2007 Posted by angelatini

A couple of things right off the bat...the Tractor Tavern is primarily a music venue. It has barely any seating because for most of the bands they showcase you want to be on your feet and close to the action! It is also a dive bar. If you can't get into the spirit of dive bars then don't come. We don't want you there anyway, elitist. It's not a pick up bar and you likely won't hear sleazy come-on's. ALL OF THESE THINGS ARE HUGE PRO'S. They have some of the best bands play there, with reasonable covers. There is room to dance if you make room. Most choose the very front if the crowd isn't big or the very back, by the soundbooth, if it is. It always depends on the show. The drinks are reasonably priced and if you are kind to the bar staff (read: tip on each drink), mighty strong. It's the best no-nonsense, MUSIC LOVER bar in town, with some of the best sound around. As a singer, it's also a great stage on which to sing...I would recommend it for bands to play, too.

Pros: Music is always great. Drinks are strong. Room to dance.

Cons: The yuppies and hippies that sometimes descend on it.

02/28/2007 Posted by seajnt

Great music, dump of a place. Very few seats, and the one bench in the back tips over if you are not careful.

12/16/2005 Posted by jiffxx

The tractor has local and touring Americana and roots rock bands 6 or 7 days a week. It has taken the acts that played The Backstage, a much better venue that closed 6 or 7 years ago. Nothing special about the space. It doesn't lend itself to sitters and dancers co-existing. Cramped restrooms right beside the stage. No service as there's only two tables and own counter. Good beer from the bar which is too close to the stage for quiet acts.

Pros: sound system

Cons: service, comfort, smoking allowed

03/18/2005 Posted by jimbunt

Greatest, most authentic, down home place to see music in Seattle? Most likely. Best lineup for acoustic, country, jazz and other great music...definitely. If your visiting from out of town, check out the Tractor and check out this area of Ballard..the insider's secret. I feel very lucky to have The Tractor in Seattle...

01/07/2003 Posted by mazecraze

The best thing about this place is the list of musicians that visit. Usually catering to your more folky and rock oriented bands, the atmosphere is very laid back, casual, and just fun! I congratulate them for bringing The Clumsy Lovers time and again, and for bringing in the quality musicians that patronize the bar. As for the place itself, it's a slightly better-than-average bar that wouldn't get this much recognition if not for the music. There are better venues that have a tough time making it, but the Tractor Tavern will be a Seattle fixture for years to come.

Pros: Excellent concerts, Cool character

Cons: Can be crowded, Often smoky

07/23/2002 Posted by erikapjones

I love the Tractor Tavern for the following reason: Mixed drinks are reasonably priced, well made, and really full (almost too full, but not quite). The bands that perform there have always been worth the cover in my experience. You can listen to music, and not necessarily get picked up.