Salt Lake’s Underground Music Scene

Peek behind the curtain of Utah’s local music scene and discover hidden gems and booming nightlife. Warehouse raves, hidden DJ sets in alleyways, and disco roller skating parties are but a few happenings in the city’s growing music climate. We put together a list of some of the best organizations in Salt Lake’s Underground Music Scene for you to explore. Get in the know and delve in:

China Doll

The heart of Salt Lake’s underground house music scene lies in China Doll. Each China Doll experience is unique from the last, hosting DJs from all over the world. It’s a dance party like no other – holding an accepting space for anyone and everyone. The focus is on intimate dance music, community-love and inclusivity. Find the next show by following them on Instagram @chinadollslc.

Photo: Instagram @chinadollslc

Social Antidote

If you’ve wandered the streets of Salt Lake City, you may be familiar with Social Antidote. They’re most well known for their neon-lit installations which operate as a showcase for local artists and an interactive experience for the people. If dancing inside a multi-colored, neon cube doesn’t sound like a blast, we don’t know what does! Catch Social Antidote happenings through their Instagram @socialantidote.live.

Photo: Instagram @socialantidote.live

Ecstatic Dance

Movement is medicine at Ecstatic Dance. Held each Wednesday at the Krishna Temple and each Sunday at Clubhouse on South Temple, the rules of Ecstatic Dance are simple: no shoes, no phones, no talking on the dance floor. It’s a connective, intuitive experience where you get to move in the way your body desires. Close your eyes and feel into the rhythm, shake it all out or participate in consensual dance with surrounding ecstatic dancers; the choice is yours. Discover more on Instagram @ecstatic.dance.slc and @clubhouse.ecstatic.slc.

Photo: https://www.facebook.com/danceslc/photos/pb.100063503922547.-2207520000./3105582853049959/?type=3

BLAQ VOID

Rage responsibly at BLAQ VOID. Discreet electronic music parties with secret guests bring forth an event you’re gonna want to check out. Text “HOUSE” to 435-344-4495 to get all the details for their next rooftop event on May 6th! To get more in on the secret, follow them on Instagram @blaqvoid.

Photo: https://www.facebook.com/blaqvoid/photos/pb.100063695221541.-2207520000./5073271196038381/?type=3

Odd Star Studios

Recently renovated and seeping with new life, Odd Star Studios acts as a breathing, living organism of local art. With live performances, killer events and visual stunners, the studio space is full of possibility. If you can dream it, you can do it at Odd Star Studios. Be sure to make it to the eclectic space on May 12th for a rockin’ Kilby Block Party afterparty, where Wasteland Records launches their new label. For more juicy deets, follow them on Instagram @odd_star_studios.

Photo: Instagram @odd_star_studios

Syndicate

Always at Soundwell, Syndicate calls all groovers, concert-goers and music lovers alike. Get down to some of the world’s best electronic artists while checking out local vendors and live painters. It’s a 21+ event with high vibes, attracting like-minded community and a creative party scene in its own realm. Learn more about Syndicate on Instagram @syndicate.slc. 

Photo: https://www.facebook.com/Syndicate.SLC/photos/pb.100064797993978.-2207520000./5786218458113210/?type=3

New City Movement

Thriving since 1998, your one-stop-spot for disco, house and techno can be found within New City Movement. Notoriously known for curating lively happenings such as Neon Rodeo, Metropolis and Bunny Hop, you’re sure to satisfy your dancing feet. Thanks to their super-partnering powers, they remain one of the top community-oriented organizations in Utah’s underground music scene. Be sure to check them out on Instagram @newcitymovement. 

Photo: https://www.facebook.com/newcitymovementslc/photos/1173878923167678

The Skaters Club

An adult skate party paired with house music, anyone? Not only is it a good time all around, but The Skaters Club comes together with a deeper purpose: “Doing what is necessary to elevate Urban Skate Culture in Utah”. Celebrated on the last Sunday night of each month, they aim to share the love of skating and music while amplifying the surrounding community in their natural rhythm and expression. Find out more on Instagram @skatersclub.co. 

Photo: Instagram @skatersclub.co