Calling Maloe Melo a legend wouldn’t be an overstatement. Even though it’s a relatively small, traditional-looking place, it has hosted its fair share of legends (Patti Smith, even an early Bruce Springsteen).

This place in musical history is due to the passionate love for music and amazing networking skills of owner Jur Scherpenzeel. Whereas his programming used to be focused on blues, you can also go to Maloe for some real rock ‘n roll, ska, punk or country music.

The venue is divided in two sections, a pub area and the separate stage in the back. Despite its reputation, it’s neither fancy nor hip, but has a very intimate, jovial feel. Maybe that’s because it’s a real family place, with Jur’s sons helping him out behind the bar for almost 25 years now. As a real Amsterdam family, they have no room for posers or attitudes. According to Jur: ‘I’m from the Jordaan [working-class neighbourhood in Amsterdam], why would I need an attitude?’