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Liverpool Echo
Liverpool Echo
Entertainment
Bethan Shufflebotham

Liverpool bar that 'birthed' The Beatles inspires new musicians 60 years on

It’s one of Liverpool’s best kept secrets from visitors exploring the city.

The Jacaranda, on Slater Street, is the perfect place to visit if you’re an old soul who feels like they were born in the wrong era.

Opened by Allen Williams in the 1950s, the venue is associated with the rise of the 60s Merseybeat phenomenon.

Its owner, with an ear for talent, went on to become The Beatles' first manager.

More than 60 years on, the venue remains the heart and soul of the city’s music scene, with an operational record label, live music venue, bar and record store.

It has been rated four stars on 2Chill, a website where people can recommend places to eat, drink, stay, do and chill.

2Chill member William Whitby says he loves "The Jac’s" listening booths and lively atmosphere.

He said: “The Jacaranda was one of the cornerstones of the Merseybeat era in the 1960s as all the best musicians used to pass through its doors.

“Today it's still a friendly and vibrant place to drink with friendly staff and interesting characters to talk to.

“The bar has cocktails and a variety of beers and is always lively and bustling at the weekends.

“I really enjoyed the nice touch of having a venue downstairs in the basement and a record shop with listening booths upstairs as it really accentuates the pub's importance and links with music.”

Still on a mission to offer a stage for emerging artists, the venue hosts open mic nights every Thursday and Sunday, with live bands on each Friday and Saturday.

On the first floor, you’ll find Jacaranda Record Store, combining vinyl, coffee and alcoholic drinks, with record players sunk into tables for a unique, intimate listening experience.

But that's not all, as the store is also home to a 1948 Voice-o-graph recording machine that records tracks directly to vinyl. It’s one of only two in the world open to the public, so it’s a must-visit for music lovers.

Have you been to The Jacaranda to see a live show? If you loved their record store, and historical recording machine whilst sipping fresh coffee or a cocktail, why not share your photos to 2Chill and recommend it over there too.

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