80’s Rock Bar FREAK is a small rock bar in the Higashishinsaibashi district of Osaka, Japan. Opened on 1 September 2010, it specialises in rock, hard rock, heavy metal, glam rock, progressive rock and pop from the 1980s.
The bar is tucked away on an upper floor of a building that feels more like an ordinary apartment block than a nightlife venue. Inside the corridors are several small bars and pubs behind separate doors, making FREAK one of those Osaka music bars that can be easy to miss without knowing where to look.
The room itself is extremely small, closer in size to a small flat than a conventional pub. Seating is limited to a short counter and a small booth area, giving the bar an intimate and personal atmosphere when only a few customers are present.
Music and video are the focus of the bar. The atmosphere is built around listening to 1980s music, watching clips, making requests and talking about bands. Heavy metal and hard rock are strongly represented, with Iron Maiden, Judas Priest, Mötley Crüe, Bon Jovi and other 1980s names fitting naturally into the playlist.
The selection can shift depending on the night, the visitors and upcoming concerts in Osaka. When Iron Maiden are due to play in the city, for example, the bar may lean heavily in that direction.
The owner is friendly and conversational, even with visitors who do not speak much Japanese. Combined with the tiny room, 1980s soundtrack and hidden upper-floor location, this gives 80’s Rock Bar FREAK the character of a specialist rock bar with a strong personal touch.
ADDRESS:
Japan, 〒542-0083 Osaka, Chuo Ward, Higashishinsaibashi, 1 Chome−17−27 ４階 日宝
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