Park West

Park West is a very nice venue but I feel like the youngest person in the crowd here whereas at the Metro, Vic, Aragon, etc. I often feel like the oldest. Park West is a grown up concert venue where the audience is set up in lounge style tables, general seating, and a balcony with a row of stools. For whatever reason I always end up on the balcony in the far stage left area because the seats and tables are all reserved or filled by folks looking to spend a lot more money than I am. My spot is convenient to a bar however, and actually has a great view because the place is pretty small. Park West brings in a lot of different acts, but in general they are trying to attract this older, more upscale crowd. I have seen M.Ward, She and Him, and Josh Ritter at Park West - all definitely calmer, acoustic side of my tastes. The acoustics are great for shows like this, however, M. Ward's guitar work really shined and Josh Ritter's voice was much better here than in some of the barroom venues I have seen him perform. I have no hesitation recommending Park West for a show, but you should know what to expect going in. If you like to push your way to the front row and jump up and down the whole show, you might be disappointed. If you want to sit and really soak in the music with a cocktail or two, this is the place to do it.