Commune: The Bar Where Live Music, Art and Community Come Together

There’s a new bar in Liverpool’s Fabric District, lovingly brought to life in the former home of Melodic Distraction. But, Commune is more than just a bar—it’s a space that breathes life into the local arts and music scene, fostering a sense of community and togetherness.

Born out of a spontaneous opportunity and a shared passion for live music, the arts, and community engagement, Commune stands as a testament to the power of creativity and collaboration.

In this interview, co-owner Charly shares the story of Commune’s inception, the inspiration behind this unique space, and what sets it apart from other venues in Liverpool. From live music and art exhibitions to film screenings and workshops, discover their exciting upcoming events, the role Commune aims to play in Liverpool’s broader creative landscape, and its vision for the future.

Liverpool Noise: Can you tell us a bit about Commune and its inception?

Charly: To be quite honest, Commune wasn’t something that we were planning at this time and everything happened quite suddenly. The three of us that are involved in running Commune already ran a bar which is very different to Commune, but we all have a love for live music, the arts, and community! When the space became available next door to that bar, our minds went into overdrive planning what we could do in the space, and how we could continue to benefit the area we’re in (The Fabric District), as Melodic Distraction did before us. It took us a while to get to the name Commune, but as soon as it came to us we knew that was it, as to us, it very much represents community and togetherness, which is so important to everything we do.

Liverpool Noise: What makes Commune different from other bars in Liverpool?

Charly: We want to be a space for the local creative community to call home. Whether that be live music, exhibitions, film screenings, DJ sets, workshops, or just a place to hang out. We’re trying to offer the space up to be used for people’s ideas and projects, whilst also putting on things we enjoy too. It’s free entry, we have some good bevs, and it’s a nice space with the courtyard and conservatory. What’s not to like? 

Liverpool Noise: You’ve mentioned that Commune will host original live music, exhibitions, film screenings, and workshops. Can you share some details about any upcoming events or exhibitions that you’re particularly excited about?

Charly: We’re already in talks with festivals, arts organisations, and other local businesses about some exciting projects so keep an eye out for them. Although I’m a musician I’m most excited to have our first exhibition from an independent local artist, which is in the works.  

Liverpool Noise: What role do you see Commune playing in the broader creative scene in Liverpool?

Charly: Liverpool is such an amazing city for small underground arts and culture. I’d like to be a place where someone can try out their new project, come to a free gig and see a band they might not have seen before, or see a new style of art for the first time, or just somewhere to have a good time. We’re only a small DIY space but I think that means we can offer something a little more special.

Liverpool Noise: How do you see Commune evolving over the next few years?

Charly: We always want to keep it rooted in the local creative community but it will be amazing to hopefully build it to the point of linking it into the wider national scene. Seeing the impact of a space like Total Refreshment Centre in London shows the impact a small venue can have on a local level as well as nationally. Liverpool can sometimes feel a bit isolated, you see how many creatives leave the city for London, it would be nice to help to bridge that gap, along with all the other amazing creative spaces in Liverpool. 

Liverpool Noise: Is there anything else you’d like the readers to know about Commune?

Charly: We’re only a small team but we want to be a welcoming space. Commune is one of the few fully accessible spaces in Liverpool, especially in terms of music venues. If anyone wants to contact us with ideas, suggestions, events, or just let us know what we could do better our email is always open. 

Follow @communeliverpool on Instagram for news and updates.