Bill Allan

Review of Tonic Room

A classic venue that's been around for a long time...

A classic venue that's been around for a long time. Parking is a hassle on a weekend, the physical space inside is very small. But you'll notice how I still give it 5 stars. Know why? Because if you're in the city, those parking and space issues are just part of life. Let's get onto the meat & potatoes.

This venue isn't anything special; but their philosophy and mission of having live music IS something special. They provide a stage for bands and performers to create magic. It's not a big stage, but it's about the opportunity.

I just recently saw The Mudmen, a Chicago-based Pink Floyd cover band. To call them a cover band is kind of an insult though, because their musical aptitudes and technical proficiencies were precise enough for them to be the touring band for David Gilmour. The show was incredible because of the band, but also the sound guy at the Tonic Room was on point! I moved around the room frequently, enjoying the show while I was analyzing the sound mix. It was pretty good from all locations.

Sometimes a space doesn't have to be huge or beautiful. It just needs to be in the right place and offer opportunities. The Tonic Room is about exposure for bands, and that's what it does best.