THERE'S SOMETHING about the party scene in historic Castleberry Hill that works — the culture, the art galleries and strolls. Then, there's a part that needs adjusting — the overbearing hip-hop vibe, abundance of college kids, not enough variety of hangouts. But thanks to comedian Don "D.C." Curry's new Star Jazz & Blues Lounge, there's a new swagger on the Hill.

THE LOOK: Why Castleberry Hill is allowing so many lounges and watering holes camouflaged as restaurants to cluster on Peters Street is a real head-scratcher. Being a burgeoning arts district, where are the coffeehouses, boutiques — or food marts for that matter?

David Graves/For the AJC (ENLARGE)
Nancy Lazzaro (left) gets in on the singing with Tabitha King at Star Lounge, which joins the burgeoning Castleberry Hill scene.
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Yes, Star Lounge is yet another watering hole, but thankfully it sets itself apart — literally. The place isn't part of that dizzying cluster that includes M Bar, Noir and Slice. Star enjoys an airy space close to Spring Street and boasts sophisticated live jazz and blues.

Rustic walls on one side hold pictures of jazz greats like Billie, Dizzy and Miles. On the other side is a long bar with a white marble counter.

Hardwood floors spill throughout and restrooms are tucked inside a hidden area, where visitors can sit a spell on comfy sofas away from all the action.

THE LAYOUT: On a recent Friday, singer Tabitha King's mesmerizing sounds and four-piece ensemble filled the narrow main space. The biggest challenge for Curry and co-owner Billy Tyler is to figure out how live bands will perform without blocking the back door, which leads to a nifty backyard space with a fireplace and basement lounge with additional seating and a performance stage.

It seems a band is better suited on weekends for this downstairs space (or maybe even outdoors). It would also open up the upstairs for those who just want to stop in for a quick drink, bite, chat and then head out. Two guests were seen entering the lounge, noticing how cramped it was and walking out.

THE BOTTOM LINE: Star Lounge could be a knockout for Castleberry Hill. The district is in dire need of something more than lounge scenes, but at least this caters to a more sophisticated, diverse crowds. With some fine-tuning to the setup, Star Lounge could live up to its name.

• THE 411: No cover. 6 p.m.-midnight Tuesday-Wednesday; 6 p.m.-2:30 a.m. Thursday-Saturday. On-street parking and complimentary parking in rear. Live music Thursday-Saturday. Star Lounge, 177 Peters St. 404-522-6139.