Old Rock House

This is probably unfair but what the hell....if you don't get there early and grab a good vantage point you're screwed. I went last year to see Shelby Lynne and when we couldn't find a place to sit or stand to see we were shushed by a fat guy with long blonde hair and a beard who was taking up what should have been about three possible spaces.

I'm sure he thought it was great. Me, not so much.

The Old Rock House was a pretty good, yet slightly disappointing experience for me.  I've been wanting to go for awhile, but it seems like they rarely have bands that I want to see, so I was excited to see that Carbon Leaf was going to be there.

The bar is big, and the service fast & friendly.  The venue was packed for the show, and being vertically challenged, seeing the band was somewhat of an issue for me.

The architecture of the building was cool (I love the concept of old restored buildings for music venues), though it would probably be improved if it weren't so narrow.  The acoustics were pretty good though, and I can see where it would be a nice, intimate setting for a less popular show.  They do have Listening Room experiences where they set tables up on the main floor & have table service, and though I've not been to one of those shows, I hear they're great.  They have other tables further back  as well, though it seems like viewing would be somewhat hindered from those (again, due to the narrow layout).

The bathroom annoyed me.  There's really little worse than stalls that are too short, so you basically have to press up against the nasty toilet to get out.  And extra 3 inches would have been terrif.

I'll be back, but won't make a special trip unless they book some more interesting bands.

Another one of my favorite venues in StL.

This is a small place, and depending on if you have VIP seating or not, you may or may not get a table. I've been there three times now and always have opted for a table. Service can be a bit slow at times, but the concerts are great and the setting is rather intimate.

Nothing like being only a few feet from the band members/singer and seated at a table with service coming to you.

Really great!