When a new spot in the downtown/north central Phoenix area opens up, we historic district folks get quite excited...still too few choices, and too few great choices at that.  So, I was very happy to hear a friend say she went to The Living Room for an after work gathering and really liked it.  We went back last night with friends for happy hour.  We literally were screaming to hear each other across a small 4-top, and asked three times--nicely--for the music level to be turned down a smidge.  Here's the thing:  we all agreed we'd make this a go-to spot in the 'hood for happy hour and easy weeknight dinners.  But, if they don't get the sound level/ambience right, it's going to be hard for them to gain a solid and loyal following.  Shared a cheese plate and hummus app...all good.  Martinis and beers, good.  Service, decent.  Living Room has some strong pluses, but sound level is going to make it or break it.  Love a place feeling alive and full of energy, just not fun when you can't hear to have good conversation with the folks sitting at your table.  After just over an hour of the ridiculous shouting, we left and went to Tuck Shop for a wonderful, fun, delicious dinner with our friends ($90 plus tip that Living Room lost).  So, Living Room, are you a DJ-driven music spot wanna-be or a neighborhood wine cafe and lounge? (A nod to Postino for getting the sound/food/ambience mix just right.)