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| - I can hang at this place, provided it's the right show that entices me through the front door. Like last night. I came here specifically to see Okkervil River. I didn't have a ticket. I walked up 1 hour and 15 minutes after the doors open. And did I get in? Yep. For the same price as everyone else. $15. That alone is worth more than people realize, for try showing up at a venue in Austin, Boston or Chicago and expect to get right in. Doesn't happen, at least in my experience. (This is a big plus for Phoenix in my book.)
This place could be a "dive," but I've been to worse. So, the interior didn't faze me. And thanks to a head's up from John V, I knew not to expect the best beer selection. So, I opted for water. Free, baby. Can't go wrong with that, especially in this state... and ESPECIALLY inside The Clubhouse, where it's more sultry and steamy than a panty-less Penthouse Party.
And even if I did want a drink, I don't think I could have talkd myself into paying $4 or $5 for swill. Even though I had free water, I sweat my arse off. I spotted a woman with a fan at the bar. I was jealous. Why didn't I think of that?
It was standing room only, but I expected as much. I was surprised, though, to notice ample room. It wasn't sweaty arm to sweaty arm, like I thought it may be. Could have been due to a Thursday night, or maybe I got lucky. Whatever the case, I didn't have to feel the direct heat of somebody's body, along with the stifling inside air (no circulation whatsoever, ugh).
As for the show, I wondered to myself if I was the only one questioning the acoustics. The set was great. The band performed quite well. I just wonder if, in another venue, the music would have been sharper. Hmm. At least the stage is big enough for the band to jump around - a little. Nothing sucks worrse than having no room to rock out!
I also didn't like how the bar area was quite well lit for a music venue. It took away from the experience, and I wasn't about to saunter up to the stage and pack in like a sardine, even though it was dark up front. Besides, by standing a little farther back, I could see the whole stage. Best "seat" in the house, if you ask me.
As for parking, forgetaboutit. Get there early or plan to find a spot somewhere other than the parking lot. I had a short walk to the venue, which I don't recommend if you're a lady, flyin' solo. Lucky for me, a cool Yelper gave me a lift to my car afterwards.
Oh, yeah, that's the other thing that makes this place cool: company. I'm not sure I would have had such a great time if I ended up being utterly alone. I'm glad I ran into a couple people I know! Then again, this isn't the type of place that scares me. I'd go back alone, if that were my only option, for the vibe inside is relaxed and there's plenty of Security. They don't search you, either, which I appreciated. I'm not here to case the joint; I'm hear to listen to my heart's content to a band that, thanks to The Clubhouse, came rollin' through Phoenix last night.
So, yeah. 4 stars from me. I like venues like this, especially when they host bands that otherwise would have no stage to play on. Clubhouse, keep it up!
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