This place is a Denton institution and really exists beyond reviews. It's dirty, small, and the bathrooms are gross. And it shouldn't be any other way.
They routinely book good bands, including stand-out local acts from Denton's internationally renowned music community. The drinks are always cheap, and they recently went non-smoking which is the best decision they've made in a long time.
Like I said, it's beyond reviewing, it simply "IS". If you're interested in getting a taste of the world-renowned Denton music scene, Rubber Gloves has to be on your list to visit. Nuff said.
Gloves defines Denton dive bar in the most lovable ways. It's definitely not for everyone, but it's home to me. They're the best venue we've got in little D, attracting even big names like Boris, Torche, Red Fang, etc. that still rock that small-town show feel. The drinks are cheap and specials are great... if you spend more than $50 here you're DEFINITELY going to need to call a cab! Bartenders are always friendly and pour some healthy drinks. Ask Batey for an AMF if you're feeling dangerous.
My words of warning (I don't even consider them complaints anymore because it's just what you expect here): AC rarely works in the summer; you'll smell like an ashtray for days; bathrooms are a bit rough; it's a little frightening during the day; you'll have an awesome time...from what you can still remember the next day. :)
RGRS is the perfect harmony of hipster-rocker-punker-metalhead-rockabilly-Âhomeless, which may vary significantly based on the night you visit. Keeps the riff raff out and you can meet some of the city's musical talent and legitimately good people. If you pop your collar you'll get punched. What's not to love?!
Rubber Gloves is the kind of music venue all kinds of people can enjoy. It may not seem that way upon first impression, but trust me. Nestled in Denton alongside train tracks, it seems a bit secluded and dismal from the outside. But it's what's on the inside that counts, right? Yes.
Rubber Gloves is warm and buzzing on the inside. Not warm like "I'm sweating to death," but warm like friendly and intimate. And by buzzing I mean there's a lot going on, plus the place literally buzzes with the loud vibrations of live music!
This venue is split into two main areas; a modest sized room where the band plays on a well-loved stage, and the bar which faces a room of tables and booths. The layout is pretty nifty because you can stand (or sit on some seriously used cushions) in front of the stage and let the music beat through you, or you can actually hear yourself talk in the bar area while still enjoying the sounds of the live set. If you're like me, you can go back and forth and savor the best of both worlds.
RG's is seriously smokey, indeed, but it's a fun spot with reasonably priced drinks and a pretty laid back crowd. This is a venue that's dedicated to booking bands and showcasing live music consistently, and that's what they do best.