Music Hall of Williamsburg

The Music Hall of Williamsburg is by far one of my favorite NYC venues. You can catch a wide variety of genres, tickets/drinks/coat check not over priced at all, and every time I've been there, the ever important crowd-vibes were amazing. The staff is also really friendly, so you feel your really free to have a great time here. My favorite place to stand is the upper left balcony where you can see the full show, yet not feel like you are packed in with the crowd. Follow their website for all up-coming shows and if your favorite act stops by there be sure not-to-miss!

I have been to the Music Hall of Williamsburg to see a variety of live acts. I've seen local hip hop, punk rock, and singer songwriters at the venue, which is a close walk to the waterfront. Each genre does very well in a venue like the Music Hall. It's spacious with a large stage but still intimate enough for the audience and the band to have a real connection. The energy is palpable there and the bar is both upstairs and downstairs. The upstairs bar, by the band merchandise behind the sound guy, is a modest bar has the essentials. Cheap beer on tap is always a plus. The downstairs bar, where the bathrooms are as well, offers more of a lounge setting. So if you show up early to the show there is plenty of space to sit and have a few before going upstairs to watch the show. There is also a "VIP" section on the balcony. Although the balcony section is actually reserved for VIP, it is usually open to all people. It's a nice alternative to watching the live acts if you don't feel like standing, as there are tables along the balcony that have a great view from above the stage. I've never experienced a long line waiting to get in to the venue either. The staff is pretty efficient. I've been to other venues for the same bands in NYC and have waited forever outside on a line. The Music Hall is well staffed and runs a tight ship. I'd definitely recommend catching a show there. They book great shows. Both international and local acts come through the venue, so it's a good idea to stay in tune with their line up. You can keep up with them @ http://www.musichallofwilliamsburg.com/

The problem many independent bands used to be that they couldn't afford to or draw a crowd large enough for the Manhattan venues, but the Village and Brooklyn places were utter crap. Not so. The Music Hall of Williamsburg is an example of that, a medium-sized well-kept concert hall where intermediate bands ranging from techno-pop to war metal can come and play a sizable stage to a crowd that doesn't have to cuddle to fit inside. Add to it a nice drink selection, an easy-enough door, and a constantly satisfactory calendar of artists, and you've got yourself one of the best spots in Billyburg.