Tip Top Tavern's new talent buyer, A.J. Alenduff, wants to encourage the "casual" music fan to support local bands.

"There's some really great local bands out there," Alenduff said.

A guitarist himself, Alenduff took over booking for the bar in July and plans to make the location at 14th Street and Capitol Avenue a spot to go for original music by upgrading the PA system and taking advantage of the bar's stage.

The Tip Top was built in 1946. In the '90s and early '00s, the location was a gay bar. It reverted back to its original name and tavern-feel, when owner Tim Reuter purchased the bar in 2006.

Alenduff, who plays rock with local band Sonic Gypsys, said electronic music and hip-hop have done well at the location, though he hopes to provide a stage for every genre. And though Alenduff is a performer, he doesn't mind putting performing on hold to have a listen.

"For me personally, it's been really cool to see some acts I might not normally see, like (local hip-hop group) The Philosophy," Alenduff said.

One of the most enjoyable things so far, Alenduff said, is to have local roots music group John Barney and the Passengers host an open stage on Thursday nights called "Songsmith Thursday."

In the end, Alenduff just hopes that fans -- not just musicians -- support local bands. He talks about it like it's his cause.

"Your readers can really do their part by simply coming out, paying a cover, having a beverage and grabbing some food, whether it be here, The Melody Inn or Locals Only," Alenduff said.