MIDTOWN. Spun off from the Austin original, Houston's Continental Club has a similar sensibility regarding music it prefers it independent, a little quirky, and with a slightly unpolished edge. That's not to say that performers are unpracticed; rather, they're at the top of their game, whether they specialize in blues, alternative rock, or country. Sometimes, acoustics aren't perfect in the former general store metal ceilings and all but the incredible talents and the pleasure of first-hand experience offset the slight imperfections. An outdoor patio and pool tables offer distraction during breaks in the music lineup.