We all know that Boston is home to many talented local bands and artists, along with some of the most enthusiastic crowds in the country. What many people don’t know, however, is that Boston is also home to many fantastic underground music venues that make concert-going all the better.
Chances are, if you’re a punk or indie fan in the Boston area, you’ve been to these venues or at least heard of them. Personally, I’m a huge music lover, so I’ve decided to rank my favorite top 6 venues in the Boston area.
6. The House of Blues
The House of Blues is a classic, but is the lowest ranking on my list due to a few reasons. Don’t get me wrong, I’ve seen some great shows there. Last November I saw the legendary pop-punk band, The Wonder Years, tour with support from Real Friends, Knuckle Puck, Moose Blood, and Seaway. This September I also got a chance to see jazz fusion band Snarky Puppy with a surprise appearance by songwriter Jacob Collier. However, my problem with the venue mainly lies in it’s size and security. Personally, I prefer smaller venues and The House of Blues is only a step or two down from The Blue Hills Bank Pavilion. The security is also not anything to brag about, as I have had a couple of unfortunate encounters with rude security guards. Over all though, everyone knows the House of Blues. Just pray that the show isn’t on the same night of a Sox game or the T is going to be packed.
5. Royale
Royale ranks number 5 on my list due to the size. It’s a smaller and more intimate venue, which I’m a big fan of. What I’m not a big fan of though is the more club-ish feeling of the venue. It sounds like just a minor detail to the entire experience, but the atmosphere really does matter in the overall show.
4. The Middle East
The Middle East could be classified as two separate venues. But for all intents and purposes, I’ll keep them together. I’m a big fan of The Middle East Downstairs. I can’t exactly judge the quality of the upstairs stage because I have never seen a show upstairs, but I can vouch for the downstairs stage. Downstairs is definitely more roomy and has more space and a larger stage, unlike upstairs where the stage is much smaller. Also, the building outside is cool as hell to look at. That wall mural outside makes it visible from down the block and is just really cool. Aside from the concert venue, the food is also pretty good and like any other place in Boston, of course they do weekend brunch.
3. Brighton Music Hall
Brighton Music Hall is one of my favorite venues in the Boston area. It’s small, incredibly aesthetic, has chill security, and is situated around tons of delicious places to eat. My only complaint about Brighton is that it’s almost too small, but that’s only a small point. It does make it a little bit difficult for moshing or what have you so that may be a disappointing factor for some fans. But the venue offers a wide variety of alternative music for a good price and is easily accessible by the green line (I don’t recommend trying to park anywhere in Allston).
2. The Sinclair
The Sinclair, in my opinion, is The House of Blues with improvements. The venue is a floor with a balcony section so there are multiple sections to it but it’s still intimate. I’ve yet to have a negative experience with security, which is definitely a positive. The only thing I’d be sure to watch out for is that the area (Cambridge, Harvard Square) can get really busy Friday and Saturdays so be wise about getting there. This could go for any of these venues on the list as well. All in all, The Sinclair is for sure a yes from me.
1. Paradise Rock Club
The Paradise Rock Club is my favorite Boston area venue. I know some may disagree with me, but I love this venue so much. My preference may be biased due to some great memories with great friends from going to shows at this venue. However, I also have some practical reasons to love this place too. First of all, there’s a Raising Cane’s right nextdoor. Aside from that, the actual venue is intimate, has free water, cool security, and still room for a pit. My favorite venue in the Boston area for sure.
