A gem in Portland’s brilliant collection of live music venues is the Doug Fir Lounge. The club’s interior uniquely draws from the late-’50s modernist style and was built from original woodwork and distinctive glass design.

Doug Fir’s manager, Bryan Deckert, says that the lounge is the brainchild of three local businessmen: the architect Jeff Kovel, nightlife industry entrepreneur John Plummer and Mike Quinn, booking director and co-owner of booking agency Monqui Presents.

“The three were brought together and envisioned a place that would set the bar for live venues in Portland. The beauty is that, with our intimate size, we are usually the first to get bands that are on their way up,” says Deckert. “We provide an experience the bands appreciate and build a relationship with them and their management.”

The Doug Fir books talent of all genres, but seeks to satisfy the tastes of their patrons, first and foremost. Deckert says that they are fortunate to have all the booking done in-house with Quinn’s booking agency, allowing them to control the content and calendar.

“We look to book touring acts and local acts. We are very fortunate that there is plenty of talent in Portland and respectable venues, that we are a community curating the scene together instead of fighting over the few good acts,” says Deckert. The venue provides a unique experience for the band and their audience. Deckert explains: “Every night we look to give the patron and the band a full experience. Everyone knows what to expect from us. The beer is cold, the place is clean and the sound in incredible.”

The Doug Fir may just be the first venue you play before your music career takes off. Decekrt says that often the talent they secure are “one and done, as they are on their way up and quickly grow too big for us.”

BOOKING INFO:
Unsolicited submissions from bands and DJs are always accepted. Please send a CD and current press kit (including photo and bio) to:

Attn: Booking
Doug Fir Lounge
830 E Burnside St.
Portland, OR 97214

It generally takes anywhere from three to six weeks for the venue to respond. If they’re interested, they’ll contact you. If you absolutely need to follow up, e-mail booking@dougfirlounge.com. More info at www.dougfirlounge.com/booking.html.

VENUE SPECS:
Room Capacity: 299
Seated Capacity: 125
21+ only, full-service bar

PARKING & LOADING:
Ample street parking available, as well as secure, low-height vehicle parking and tour bus street parking (by arrangement). Load-in/out is covered and level, through the secure, underground parking garage, and loads directly to the backstage wings.

DRESSING ROOM:
Large shared 12’x25’ lockable room, just off stage left.