Asylum

121 Center St., Portland, ME, (207) 772-8274. An establishment that has had its ups and downs, with a sports bar on one side and a large music venue capable of holding 600 plus. Lots of potential when a good national act comes through, otherwise just a very big sports bar. Open Mon. through Thurs. from 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m., and on Fri. and Sat. from 11:30 a.m. to 1 a.m. Otherwise open for concerts. The bar offers a surprisingly good full menu, everything from pizza to stir-fry. Cover for live concerts.

Thursday, January 12 DJ Sain*don.

Friday, January 13 Al's Basement

Thursday, January 19 TruMystic. | 8 pm | $8 | downstairs: retro lounge with DJ Sain*don

Friday, January 20 Al's Basement