CLUB REVIEW : Sunset Strip’s Coconut Teaszer Still Has That Creepy ‘80s Vibe

If there weren’t so many bands who need gigs in this town, the Coconut Teaszer might have closed its purple doors long ago. Possibly one of the most unpleasant rooms in L.A. for live music, the Teaszer seems to exist predominantly through bands who rely on the kindness of friends as they entice buddies to the Sunset Strip club with generous guest lists.

Although the Strip’s “pay-to-play” policy went out of vogue a while back, the Teaszer still has that creepy ‘80s vibe. This could be in part because bands who play at the West Hollywood room are often paid only if they draw a big enough crowd, according to a club spokeswoman.

While the Teaszer, which also contains an upstairs dance floor, is currently in the midst of a face lift--adding antique pool tables and new booths, among other cosmetic shifts--the changes really need to be focused on the main performance space.

The ceiling in the main showroom is so low that it acts as a compressor, funneling the sound directly into your eardrums. The tiny downstairs basement space, called the 8121 Club, is a sweaty room with an equally oppressive air. Perhaps the overhaul that’s in the works will inspire some major revisions down the road, allowing the Teaszer to not only function as a showcase but also to show folks a consistently good time.

* Coconut Teaszer and 8121 Club, 8117 Sunset Blvd., 18 and over (except on Mon. and Tue.), (213) 654-4773, cover varies.