DOWNTOWN. Blues, beer, and barbecue! What more could you ask for? BB's, a rather bare-bones place, was opened by blues lovers Lindsay and Jo Shannon, whose combined music collection numbers more than 5,000 blues recordings. Don't judge by appearance ­ the barbecue spot is a diner's delight. Pork ribs, battered fries, baked beans, jambalaya, and crawfish étouffé keep regulars begging for more, more, more. Great blues music completes the atmosphere. A real Kansas City treat.

WESTPORT. One of KC's top nightlife joints, Beaumont offers cowboys everything from concerts and pool tables to country line dancing and a mechanical bull. Of course, Beaumont's not all country-western, as the eclectic clientele will no doubt attest, and it's not uncommon to find the two sand-pit volleyball courts packed with well-tanned co-eds and youngish business types. When the sun goes down and live music starts, only heaven (and the booking agent) know what's in store, since featured acts may be heavy metal, pop, Southern rock, or just plain country. Past performers have included such familiar names as the Del McCoury Band, Warren Brothers, Brother's Keeper, and Cracker. Cover charges vary, and advanced tickets may be purchased at the box office. Only cash and debit cards accepted.

WESTPORT. This eclectic club presents a variety of live music. One night, it's reggae; another night, blues; and another, rock. No matter what you come for, all the rhythms are great and all add to the place's hip ambience. While hanging out and listening to the tunes, grab a drink from the bar, play a game of pool, or get a breath of fresh air on the outdoor deck. Upstairs, an Irish tavern features live acoustic acts and its own bar; it's open Monday through Saturday, 7pm till 10pm.

18TH & VINE HISTORIC DISTRICT. Love jazz? If the answer's yes, then head over to this exciting club and catch some great live music. The club, located in the Jazz Museum, lets you bone up on jazz history while enjoying tunes and nursing drinks. Ready to satisfy any taste, the Blue Room features a full selection of beer, wine, liquor, and soft drinks.

DOWNTOWN. One of Kansas City's most popular nightspots, Davey's Uptown regularly features pretty big names on the music front, including the Afghan Whigs, No Means No, Roger Clyne & the Peacemakers, The Follow, and Bruce Robison. The old dive dates from the 1920s, when it opened as a Prohibition-era cocktail lounge. When it got "on the level" in 1934 and obtained a legal license to sell, Davey's had already established itself as one of the city's best watering holes. At its current location since 1950, the bar offers everything a good night owl needs: Old Style on tap, level pool tables, arcade games, bar stools, and a great sound system.