Battle
of the Band Venues!
Article written by Kristel
Boe
The three hottest venues in San Diego duke it out for maximum
attendance and the biggest bands in the business. But when it
all boils down to it, which one really is worth visiting?
Soma:
***
3350 Sports Arena Blvd.
www.somasandiego.com
Scene: Pre-pubescent punk kids
Age Group: Average 16
Sound: Good. Offering both a large room for
big bands and a side stage for smaller acts, Soma accommodates
sound well. The venue is equipped with absorbing material along
the walls that keeps the sound where it should be.
Size: Large, Soma accommodates approximately
1200 - 2300 attendees in the main hall, 900 in the side stage.
Alcohol: Nope, and don’t even think about
wearing your spiked wrist band, security will take that too.
High Note: Soma is an all age’s venue
and brings in some of the biggest punk and alternative bands
to San Diego. It also offers up and coming bands a chance to
make a name for themselves by opening for big attractions.
Low Note: Soma tends to pack a dangerous amount
of people into their large shows. The place has horrible ventilation
and little to no air conditioning. If you make it through the
mosh pits, you probably won’t survive heat stroke.
House
of Blues: ****
1055 5th Ave
www.hob.com
Scene: The House of Blues caters to all types
of music fans, young and old.
Age Group: 21 and up, no exceptions.
Sound: Excellent.
Size: Large, The House of Blues has a lower
level, two side balconies, and a sitting area with a perfect
view looking down on the stage.
Alcohol: Absolutely, but prepare to shell out
some big bucks for ordinary drinks. The bar is ironically called
Salvation Alley.
High Note: The venue has an amazing feel and
look. It is stylish and chic. If you can’t see the stage,
no worries, monitors are located throughout the venue for your
viewing pleasure.
Low Note: The bathroom is located on the lower
level. After you’ve done your business, you have to wait
in line to re-enter the bar area on the top floor, this can
be tedious and slow.
 |
Canes
Bar and Grill: ***
3105 Ocean Front Walk
www.canesbarandgrill.com
Scene: Laid back beach combers
Age Group: Average 24
Sound: Good, as long as the sound guy is paying
attention, vocals and guitar are usually in check. Be prepared
for some after music ear buzzing though, for whatever reason
this never fails when I attend Canes.
Size: Medium, Canes has a floor in front of
the stage, tables in the back, and a balcony on top for viewing.
It occupies approximated 900.
Alcohol: Yes, Canes recently became a 21 and
up venue only. Occasionally they host an event that is 18+ but
it is required you have a wrist band and a valid ID to enter
the bar area. Smoking is also allowed on top, outside.
High Note: Lot’s of seating room, great
vibe and moderately priced drinks. The food isn’t half
bad either and they often serve throughout the evening.
Low Note: It’s difficult to think of
a bad thing about Canes that stands out in my mind, over all
it is a great venue, but like always, be prepared for a bathroom
line!
Check back soon as San Diego Super Guide puts more venues
to the test! |
