o some, the mere mention of karaoke conjures up images of lounge lizards trying to imitate Elvis, or drunken Madonna posers screeching like injured animals. But at Bar Vocalz, it’s best to forget everything you thought you knew about karaoke. This place is different; Vocalz is all karaoke all the time which makes it important be very good at what they do.

They are. With 6,000 song choices in four different languages, (English, French, Spanish and Portuguese) a superb state-of-the-art sound system, and a delightful DJ/host/performer keeping the room rocking steady, this is a wannabe singer’s haven. Located one floor above street level, this room can host 300 people with two large bars, big windows looking down on Crescent St, and a mural of famous singers looking down on the performers. Décor is simple red brick walls backing a stage giving it a typical comedy club appearance. But here, you are hoping for applause, not laughs!

Many elevated TV screens show either the singer onstage or the ongoing lyrics so that the audience can sing-along (and they often do, sometimes thankfully drowning out the performer). If you do well, however, you might want to keep your recorded performance for posterity on DVD or CD, a unique option offered for a small fee.

Noting the absence of a signature drink, I teamed up with barkeep extraordinaire Jason, a Vocalz staff veteran, to create one for this club. We coined it “Liquid Courage”. It tastes a tad medicinal, but, when you are about to put yourself out on a musical limb, it might be just what the doctor ordered. Once you find your courage, there’s something strangely liberating about bearing your singing soul to a roomful of strangers. It’s actually quite addictive if you manage to get through it unscathed. And this crowd is usually very forgiving; after all, most are here seeking their few minutes of fame as well.

Sure, you are bound to hear some really awful stuff as well as some talent so awesome that you might change your mind about getting up at all. But that’s the fun of it. Even if you don’t sing, Vocalz is a great escape for something completely different downtown and a perfect choice for large group outings. (Think bachelorette parties!) Surprisingly, it’s also a popular pit stop for WWF Wrestlers and New York Ranger hockey players when they are in town. (Go figure!) Apparently, they come here to belt some back and belt some out, usually rock songs, to relax. Weekends are often packed, so arrive early to secure your singing opportunity; it’s first signed-up, first-served. Sundays, you can sing for your “Smirnoff” with a bar credit prize for the best performance. Research song choices (if you want to practice at home first) at http://www.vocalz.net/english/catalogue.html. - S.C.