PA's Lounge

It might not have the clout of Great Scott, but this Somerville bar offers a broad spectrum of great local bands and eclectic, often experimental out-of-town artists. Like its Allston counterpart, PA's (originally the Portuguese-American Club) owes its success to a dedicated booker and an ownership that's willing to take a few risks. If you ask nicely in the adjacent bar, they might make you a delicious Fluffatini (named after the marshmallow spread Fluff, created in blue-collar Somerville).