Soundgarden

So, the only place to start anything Indie in Jinju is the Indie original: Soundgarden. Once the coolest, most genuinely laid-back hangout in Gyeongnam (at the very least). A recent series of price hikes, followed by a renovation had threatened this billing, but what is the verdict on the new So,g?

The exterior is certainly different. A low key sign board is a definite improvement on the jolly yellow giant - a big mistake after the original, iconic red S,og, that we all came to love. Anyone returning from Seoul on an express bus would remember looking out for this, a homing beacon for a well-earned pint. This is all window dressing though, as the proof of the pudding - as far as bars go - is always in the drinking. So what's it like inside? And more to the point, what's behind the bar?

So, it's an Ikea showroom? Well, not quite, but it isn't the hippyish, alternative living room that it once was. Reassuringly, Che Guevara still surveys the scene from his perch. The windows are superb for looking out over the railway, though they no longer provide the excuse to talk to the friendly barmaids working in front of them (the chatty staff were done away with some years ago). The bar is now along the back wall, and looks okay, if somewhat Urban Drinkesque. The staff are fine; helpful, if uninspiring.

And the bevvies? No change: W5000 for a bottled Bud, Stout or Cafri to W9000 for a Long Island, with imported bottles at an extortionate W7000 a pop. Steep, but judging by the clientele, it's the cocktail-sipping couples that will be the mainstay from here on. They do have decent range of spirits too, to be fair.

And the verdict? 7.5 out of 10. It's still the best independent bar in Jinju, with the best music, but that isn't saying much these days. Give it a try. If you are loaded, or don't drink much, this may well be the place for you.

Soundgarden is a special place, and don't get me wrong, it is good, or it wouldn't be on here, but its rating will only improve with a return of good live music and a pricing review. Indie Jinju is fair, but not rich.

Draught beer and live music has returned -  Soundgarden now gets 8 out of 10!