Cathode Azure (Closed Permanently) Formerly: Tutto Mondo

It Could Benefit From A Little Competition

Every gay person in Charlotte knows how few choices there are with regard to gay clubbing/nightlife here, so it's no surprise that a place like Cathode Azure isn't trying too hard. And given how small the venue is, this sad state of affairs might be just as well. Sadly, once a newer place opens--and one always eventually does--I have a feeling this joint will go the way of all that have come before it (think Marigny, Velocity, Genesis, Stonewall, The Garden and Gun Club, etc). Now, mind you, the physical space of Cath Az, despite being a bit challenged in the square footage department, isn't bad. The problem is more with the music--and therefore the general atmosphere, which, alas, is nothing new when it comes to Charlotte gay clubs. For some reason, club managers and DJs in this area seem afraid to risk playing anything cutting-edge or little known, which true, hardcore, regular club-goers want to hear. Instead, they opt for what they think is safer stuff--such as "dance remixes" of the radio's top 40 hits, which might be fine if the idea is to cater only to those occasional nightlifers who are afraid to dance to anything they haven't heard before. Too often, though, this just leads to sets filled with bad versions of pop songs that were never originally meant to be high-energy dance numbers. It also leads to jarring, inappropriate shifts in tempo, energy and mood--not unlike listening to the radio. It's no way to carry a crowd into blissful surrender on the dance floor, which any DJ worth his or her salt should strive to do. When Charlotte DJs should be giving clubbers meaty stuff, perhaps a bit dark, perhaps a bit deep, instead they offer only airy fluff with no substance. And the DJs at Cathode Azure are among the worst offenders as far as this goes. Their sets are filled with two-minute ditties that bounce erratically across the spectrum from R&B to hip hop to bubble gum pop to--well, you get the picture. And if they veer away from the current radio fare, it's only to dredge up the most overplayed, worn-out hits from yesteryear. Sadly, most Charlotteans are so inured to this being the norm that they just ride it out as best they can...until, of course, the next new club opens. It's only a matter of time before Cathode Azure goes the way of those that preceded it because the likelihood of its management staff making any changes is slim to none.

STAY AWAY!!

The owner Doug is an awful person!!! He is not considerate nor appreciative of your business! DO NOT GO HERE!!!!!!!

One of the better CLT gay bars

The bartenders are friendly, especially Jake and Scott. They have different specials depending on the night, but charge cover on Friday and Saturday after 10pm. Wednesday night is free vodka w/ $1 mixers. Friday and Saturday night will be busy, but expect a $7 cover unless you have their membership, which is only offered each year during Pride. The crowd picks up after 11:30 on Friday and Saturday night. Sunday afternoon they have mimosa specials and at night they have drag shows. The crowd will be generally 20s and 30s throughout the week, but it is one of the most popular gay bars in the city. It is right beside the East/West Blvd Station if you're taking the light rail. They claim to be a dance bar, but really people don't dance that much there, although they do have a live DJ and dance floor on the weekends. Make sure to mingle and not just stand around, Charlotteans are very friendly!

Fun, friendly, and definitely my bar home

I started going last year and have been back every week for over a year [promise I'm not an alcoholic lol] Bartenders are friendly and pay attention to what you had the previous visit even after a change up ;-) and quickly know you by name. The crowd is diverse, especially on Saturday night and Sunday afternoon and the dance floor is lively. There is only one drag show on Sunday, which I prefer since I go out to drink and party not to watch a show :p

Thursday-Lets Have a Kiki! A Weekly Drag Show!!

Every Thursday Cathode turns its South Beach Styled super ounge into a spectacular drag venue. Featuring "The LADIES OF CATHODE AZURE". Thats right, Cathodes very own Bethann Phetamine, Bella Jade and Illusionist Jaime Monroe perform several numbers for the better part of an hour! These gals are bound to put a smile on your face! And whats even better to compliment this fun evening are the Thursday drink specials. Cathode has positioned itself to attract the 21+ crowd with popular drag entertainment every Thursday night and it thats not enought, they have also deeply discounted their top shelf and call brand liquors. All the fun you want is right here. Its no wonder its become a favorite spot for locals and gay business travelers alike. A loungy atmosphere, outdoor patio with heaters, fireplace, indoor game room (pool and darts), ATM, an elevated dance platform and the only overhead music video projection system in gay Charlotte! CATHODE AZURE...Where fun happens!