ONE OF THE FIRST CLUBS to open during the revamp of East Atlanta in the late '90s, the Echo has an air of indie-rock progressiveness without taking itself too seriously. The club's entrance leads to its long, narrow bar, which opens up to a modest-size showroom. Prints of rock posters from past shows, designed by Methane Studios, line the walls. Although the bar and main room crowd easily, a backroom lounge with a separate bar can be a great spot to catch your breath.

PRICE: Covers range from $3 to $20, depending on the act. Drinks are priced affordably.

TUNES: Indie-rock royalty including Pavement, Chameleons, Jon Spencer Blues Explosion and White Stripes have performed in the past, as well as popular local acts.

SCENE: The primary focus is on live shows, with occasional movies and other events. Friday night performances are followed by KISS, a late-night rock 'n' roll dance party (starting about 1 a.m.).

-- Jon Waterhouse

• THE 411: 551 Flat Shoals Ave., East Atlanta. 404-681-3600, www.echostatic.com/echolounge/.