Iron Horse music Hall

[xoxoxoBruce]

I figure UT is busy making wedding plans, so I can sneak in a plug for the Iron Horse music hall in Northhampton, MA. Some friends of mine are playing a benefit show for Habitat for Humanity, this thursday, June 22nd. So if you're in New England, be there or be square.

The Iron Horse, Northampton, MA
Music Alone Shall Live
by David Saslavsky

August's Venue of The Month has it's own slogan. The Iron Horse Music Hall regularly host nationally renowned acts, but it's true music calling is giving the unknown an audience. Nanci Griffiths, Wynton Marsalis, The Disco Biscuits, Suzanne Vega, and The Indigo Girls have all graced their stage. Talk about eclectic.

Jordi Herold never intended to bring national acts to Northampton, MA, a college town in western Massachusetts. He was simply looking to bring a little culture off the college campuses and back into the center of town. On February 24, 1979, The Iron Horse opened its doors holding music three nights a week. Musicians were paid by passing a hat. Today, live music shines seven nights a week, many nights with shows at 7pm and 10pm. Many smaller acts skip Boston altogether with its often impenetrable and downright poor quality venues.

The Iron Horse has two distinct formats, the sit-down table and the rock club. For sit-down shows, the line starts early. I've seen Bela Fleck and Tony Trishka, and Richard Thompson in recent years, and for both was in line a good 90 minutes before doors. Waiting in line is often a great place to meet other friendly serious music fans. When doors open, tickets are dispersed and seating begins. The front tables are always available and not reserved for VIP's, an often disappointing sight after an hour and a half wait.

The room is all wood which makes for great acoustics. Tables are set up along the main floor, and in the upstairs balcony. Up a slight level from the main floor sits the bar. Restrooms are downstairs along with a poster gallery of past musicians (great browsing!!) With this set up, would you now expect a Bud in a can? Iron Horse features ten microbrews on tap including regional brewers, Berkshire Brewing Company, and Wachusetts Nut Brown ale. For the less adventurous out-of-towners, there is Guiness, Bass, and the now expanding Magic Hat.

Head Chef Michael Timmerman prepares a varied menu for any budget or appetite. Sandwiches, nachos, and other appetizers are available pre-show, as well as fresh salmon, swordfish, veggie lasagna, steaks, and a hummus platter. Tonight, a quick phone call revealed that for Wynton Marsalis specials include Thai Crab Cakes, and grilled scallops. Micheal will often vary the menu to the artist. Cajun food for a Cajun band, etc.

Today, the club is owned by Eric Suher, as part of his Iron Horse Entertainment Group which includes The Calvin Theater and Pearl Street Station. Jordi Herold books all three as well as summer concerts at Look Park's Pines Theater (a future venue of the month).

Northampton sits two hours west of Boston, and an hour and a half east of Albany. With four quality venues, their is more musical choices than in some large cities. People here know and love their music. No one talks during the show. I've held my bladder till a break in order not to disturb the flow. In fact, I've met a few locals who check out two or three shows a week just because The Iron Horse is so nice and you never know which future superstar you'll stumble upon.

[richlevy]

Originally Posted by xoxoxoBruce

I figure UT is busy making wedding plans, so I can sneak in a plug for the Iron Horse music hall in Northhampton, MA. Some friends of mine are playing a benefit show for Habitat for Humanity, this thursday, June 22nd. So if you're in New England, be there or be square.

ROAD TRIP!

[Elspode]

Originally Posted by xoxoxoBruce

I figure UT is busy making wedding plans

'Scuse me?

[xoxoxoBruce]

You're not the only one that's been busy.