This new years eve I found myself wandering downtown looking for the best place to celebrate. Live music and a familiar atmosphere were a crucial part of a good night. The Crystal Bar has always been associated with a good time, but I did not expect to find the live music that I required. As I walked by, I looked in through the crowd of people by the door and thought to myself, something seems different. Everything looks and feels the same, but something changed. As I searched around the bar for something to stand out I glanced up and where there once were comical posters and bras, there was now a stage and the live music I was looking for.

It has been a year and a half since previous owner Douglas “Grunch” Sandiland passed away. Change was never part of his plan unless it involved a new bra or poster on the wall. The unwavering character of the Crystal has been a comfort to many in the Bozeman community. Every available surface has accumulated random assortments of bar taps, bras, posters, and confiscated IDs. Every item is a fundamental part of the charm and allure of the bar.

The need to respect and honor Grunch’s way of doing things was a common theme when talking to the new management. Changing the bar is the one thing they do not want, but needed something else to remind everyone why The Crystal has been apart of Bozeman for so long.

Confronted with the demand for live music downtown and the increasing number of talented musicians, the new owner Mike McConnell saw one option: give the people what they want. In the past there had been attempts to include live music in the mix, but everyone who has been to the Crystal on a busy night knows the strain of finding room to stand. This lack of space provided a big challenge for the bar.

Uncertain of the future, some were afraid of what the bar might become under new ownership. Talk of the Crystal becoming a music venue spread and the fear of change along with it. Renovations started in late September/early October and finished by the end of the year with the grand opening New Year’s Eve. Overcoming the anxiety and uncertainty, the Crystal Bar rang in the new year with the same personality and atmosphere its patrons were accustomed to.

Located where the office and counting room used to be, the new stage is a subtle change to the flow and rhythm established by Grunch. The stage was designed by architects and sound engineers to meet the needs of the bar as well as the musicians playing. What is unique about the venue is the elevated stage 7 feet above the crowded bar floor. Having the band play above the masses limited the amount of change needed and allowed for the wall of confiscated IDs, the goal post, and the countless bras to remain undisturbed. The stage also has private musician access, making for a better experience for both audience and performers. Again, keeping the musician in mind, the stage offers both 110 and 220 volt service and a full spectrum of theatrical LED lighting.

Knowing the typical crowd on weekends, owner Mike aims to cater to both country and rock enthusiasts. According to entertainment planner Kate Springer, the bar intends to present live music at least two nights a week. Friday nights will be country music with a flair toward honky-tonk and Saturday nights will be rock. An open mic night is a possibility for Wednesdays, offering new musicians a place in the spotlight.

Along with the installation of the stage, Mike made other minor improvements around the bar to “shine it up a bit!” With the installation of new bar tops and an overall cleaning, the Crystal is ready for its future in the music scene. Starting the new year off with a bang the Crystal will see a variety of musicians. This month starts off with well known music by The Dirty Shame on Saturday, Feb 4 followed by Bad Intentions on Feb 17th.

With more music on the way, the venue at the Crystal is the bar to visit this year and will hopefully become as established as the bras and beer taps that litter the walls. Unchanged yet renewed, the Crystal continues to offer the   same great personality and atmosphere for anyone to meet, drink, and socialize.

For more information and lineup of shows visit www.bozemanmagazine.com/calendar or www.rebverbnation.com and search for the Crystal Bar.

Zach Hoffman is a senior in the MSU Photography program. Whether its photography, design, or writing, Zach is constantly searching for new and creative ways to capture and express life. For a look into his world visit zachattack645.blogspot.com.