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Post by michaelstarr on Apr 29, 2008 9:48:03 GMT -5
I've been reading a lot of band classified ads saying they play "A level rooms" in CT and MA. Just wanted to know, what are those rooms? What makes a room great and who's currently playing them?  |
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Post by Johnny 5 on May 1, 2008 9:20:43 GMT -5
Interesting question. I've had this debate with some people too. There are definitely differing opinions on what the top clubs in the area are. Before I respond, I'm curious to hear what other people think first.
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Post by Johnny 5 on May 1, 2008 16:37:46 GMT -5
No one? Ok, I'll tackle this one, haha. I'm by means no authority on the subject, but I've been playing in the scene for some time. It's tough because alot of the "A Level Rooms" aren't around anymore. But currently in CT I'd say the top clubs are (in no order) The Red Door, Murphy & Scarletti's, The Black Bear Saloon, Rookies, The Thirsty Turtle (though I'm not sure they still have many bands), Tuxedo Junction (the same, rarely has bands anymore), & Toad's Place. In Western MA I'd say Geraldine's & Maximum Capacity are the current top players.
I left off The Webster because it's an odd venue. Yes, they have big names in there, but it's become a "pay to play" club and technically any band can get in there if they're willing to pay up front. Toad's is similar in some ways in that alot of no name bands do play there, however it's more because Toad's is giving them a chance to prove themselves and the bands aren't required to pay anything in advance. I've been seeing alot of bands play their first couple shows at Toad's and there's nothing wrong with that. But typically "A Level Clubs" take some time to get into. Usually the club wants you to be able to prove yourself as a band first. And consequently, most of the bands that play these rooms are cover/party bands as they tend to have the biggest followings in the area right now.
There are a lot of clubs I didn't list that are very cool in their own right, but I don't personally consider them the top rooms. Feel free to argue, I'm curious what other people think, like I said.
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Post by twistdpair on May 28, 2008 13:01:52 GMT -5
+1 for Murphy's, Red Door, Geraldine's and Rookie's. If the band plays Rookies on the weekends, they are doing very well. If they have regular dates at M&S, Red Door, Geraldine's (not one-offs)they are toward the top of the heap.
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Post by Johnny 5 on May 28, 2008 16:12:32 GMT -5
+1 for Murphy's, Red Door, Geraldine's and Rookie's. If the band plays Rookies on the weekends, they are doing very well. If they have regular dates at M&S, Red Door, Geraldine's (not one-offs)they are toward the top of the heap. Yup, I'd have to agree. Welcome to the boards! ;D |
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Post by analog on Jul 25, 2008 12:11:28 GMT -5
I hate to sound pessimistic, and I suppose it depends on your definition of "A level", but to me an "A level" club means that you have the capacity to hold 1000 bodies (thereby allowing you to get the better national club tours), a real stage, and professional sound and lighting systems. I believe that leaves about 2 in CT. Toads and The Webster. 12 years ago I would have said there were more like 6.  |
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Post by Johnny 5 on Jul 25, 2008 12:55:05 GMT -5
I hate to sound pessimistic, and I suppose it depends on your definition of "A level", but to me an "A level" club means that you have the capacity to hold 1000 bodies (thereby allowing you to get the better national club tours), a real stage, and professional sound and lighting systems. I believe that leaves about 2 in CT. Toads and The Webster. 12 years ago I would have said there were more like 6. I hear you. What I mean about A rooms are the top rooms in CT to play. You're totally right. There USED to be a bunch of huge rooms (Tuxedos, The Sting, etc). Even if all the clubs closed except some hole in the wall, if it was the best room left I would have to consider that the A room in CT. That's how I'm defining it. But I see your point too. |
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Post by Joe on Nov 4, 2008 17:27:08 GMT -5
Topping an old thread!
I knew the issue would come up of "what defines an A level club" which you could almost argue there are none in CT or western MA. I think it's relative and I agree with list John gave.
There is also Pearl St in Northampton, MA but it's similar to the Webster in how John described.
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Post by frank on Mar 15, 2009 12:06:52 GMT -5
Bumping this thread...
How is Daniel Street? Do any of the Black Bear sites stand out above the rest?
I agree with John in his assessment of rooms. Red Door is my current favorite - it's a club where people go primarily to see the band. There are no tables for people to put their butts in chairs, they provide awesome lighting, sound and a great atmosphere and its packed every single time (ie built in crowd - they always have great bands so people know they won't be disappointed!)
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