Crocodile to reopen Thursday; free shows set for Thursday and Friday

The Croc's back.

On Thursday, the iconic club — formerly the Crocodile Cafe — opens its doors once more. The club closed suddenly in December 2007 due to financial difficulties. It has since been completely remodeled. The space now features a showroom and a full service Via Tribunali dining room, formerly occupied by a bar.

The club opened in 1991, an hosted such stars as Nirvana, Pearl Jam, the Beastie Boys and R.E.M.

To break in the club once again, the public is invited, free of charge, to check out some local bands Thursday and Friday.

Thursday night's show features Hypatia Lake, the Kindness Kind and the Quiet Ones. Doors open at 8:30 p.m. It's 21 and over, no cover.

Friday night will feature AKIMBO, Brothers of the Sonic Cloth and Patrol. Doors open at 8 p.m. The night is 21 and over, no cover.

Come Saturday, the Crocodile will have its first official ticketed show, featuring Hot Buttered Rum and Everyone Orchestra. The show starts at 8 p.m. and it's 21 and over. Tickets: $18 in advance available through www.ticketmaster.com or by calling 206-628-0888.

For more information, check out — thecrocodile.com.

Marian Liu: 206-464-3825 or mliu@seattletimes.com