Like its predecessor, ­Harper’s Ferry, Brighton Music Hall is essentially a dive bar with a big stage and cheap drinks — the perfect venue for indie ­headliners. The 340-­person space draws remarkably hot bands,­ ­including U.K. soul-folk sensation Michael ­Kiwanuka, Canadian indie-rock faves ­Japan-droids, and Brazilian singing star Céu. And unlike at the roomier venues in town, you can get in a round of pool and still make it up to the front in time for the show.

Brighton Music Hall | 158 Brighton Ave., Allston, MA