In San Antonio, there is never a shortage of concerts, local shows or spots to frequent, but this self-made, DIY music venue nestled in southwest San Antonio demands your attention and recognition.
The Alley, as painfully noted by owners Brandon Blake and Peyton Beushausen, is entirely a passion project. The idea first came about when Blake helped put on a local show, “A Ballroom on Mars,” for New Year’s 2023. After months of struggling to find fun and interesting spaces, The Alley’s humble origins began when Blake found the building listed on Craigslist in Feb. 2024. Using sledgehammers and chainsaws, the old tile and remnants of the tattoo parlor slowly came down as The Alley established itself.
“Everything that’s in there is stuff that he’s found or we’ve been able to make ourselves,” Beushausen said.
Since its official opening, The Alley has hosted more than 30 shows featuring over 50 unique artists, placing an emphasis on safety and community.
“We want to continue to be a place that bands can play their music and play it safely,” Blake exclaimed.
Be fair warned — the front door can be hefty. Upon stepping inside, concertgoers are greeted with a decorative wall featuring candid photos, copies of their magazine 9PinPunk, a framed picture of Spongebob and other random trinkets. The venue also features an entire wall made of glass; making a perfect spot for taking a picture. If friendly staff and inexpensive drinks are not tempting enough, behind the double-velvet curtains lies the main attractions. Not only does The Alley provide a comfortable couch with pillows and scattered seating to watch performances, it also provides classic video games arranged in a semi-circle along the left wall for your entertainment.
Before the venue was erected, Blake was most known for his magazine, 9PinPunk. The magazine is a DIY, local music magazine inspired by the music fanzines from the early days of punk. Since Nov. 12, 2022 Blake and his staff have been putting out the scene-zines, with each volume being numbered up until issue nine. Of course this is meant to represent the nine pins in bowling, perfectly matching the aesthetic they have established.
Small venues are important, and pivotal to the survival of local music culture and community. Stay on the lookout for shows posted on their Instagram @TheAlley_satx, and new issues @9PinPunk.
