Having a bar close to your home where you can meet friends, have a safe nightcap before trundling off to bed, or throw an impromptu party is essential in a town as big as Los Angeles. But having a place nearby where you can also play music is downright wonderful. The Trip, which used to be called Nocturnal, has been such a place for dozens of LA musicians already, even though it’s only been open a few weeks under the new ownership. The place has gotten some upgrades inside as well, and there are rumors of a mural going up on the wall facing Lincoln Blvd., but the best improvement has to be to the sound system onstage. Always decent, the sound has become phenomenal. Partly due to the owner, John’s, love for music and committment to supporting the local scene. Serving sake drinks, decent wines and a good beer selection, the Trip caters to a pretty wide array of patrons. They have no less than seven bands booked already for their New Years 2009 Music Party, and pre-sale tickets are already going fast. This place is going to rock Santa Monica, hopefully for years to come. Find out more at their website, tripsantamonica.com or visit them on myspace.  Randy Todd Music gives them two thumbs way up!