al's on Seventh

This bar/club has gone through a few name changes since I moved to Birmingham 6 years ago-Lakeshore Yacht Club, Joe's On Seventh, and now it's most recent incarnation, Al's on Seventh. While there wasn't much change between Lakeshore and Joe's, there was a tremendous amount of change (at least in decor) from Joe's to Al's.  It's much sleeker, more inviting, good use of interior and exterior space. There's a covered back patio area for smokers now that Birmingham has gone smoke free-even as a smoker myself I appreciate that.  Bathrooms usually seem fairly clean, I really like that they're 1 person per bathroom at a time.  Drinks are moderately priced, pours are controlled (which has its plusses and minuses in my opinion).  There's a fairly decent sized dance floor and stage area (for those bold enough to be more in the spotlight).  My biggest grievance-and this, sadly, is not limited to just Al's in the Birmingham area-the drag shows go on FOR.EVER.  And ever. I'd be less inclined to call that a minus if A/ the drag queens were spectacular and B/ there were several different performers vs. usually only 2 or 3 (the same 2 or 3 doing at least 2 songs).  The truth is, the performers are typically mediocre, at best-I've not seen one yet that has knocked my socks off.  On the whole, I think this is a great place to go, hang out, conversate with friends,have a few cocktails and do some fun people watching. Just be sure to head outside once the drag show starts.