Union Sound Hall

On Tuesday I checked out Winnipeg’s newest live music venue, Union Sound Hall.  

 I went to see Mark Webber and BRAIDS. The tickets said doors at 9, show at 10. I got there at 9:40 and I was informed that the doors would not open until 10. Now I know tardiness is to be expected, and this isn’t just Union Sound Hall, but why why why can’t shows ever start on time? It irritates me to no end. I could have spent the twenty minutes I had to wait outside doing something else. Plus it was Tuesday, doors at ten is already pretty late and of course that means the whole show is behind schedule. People have places to be after… like bed. (End rant.)  

Pros: The bar itself was pretty nice though not as underground as expected… because it’s upstairs, ha ha.  There were some black and white photographs of Winnipeg on the tables and walls. Cool and local, I like that.

 Two bars, though only one was in use at the time I was there because it wasn't busy. It’s good to know they can keep the liquor flowing on nights when they’re busier, waiting in line is the worst.

Another big pro is that they have lots of amazing artists choosing to play there. It’s not quite like the Lo Pub yet, but it’s trying.

Their posters are amazing. Their graphic designer(s) are doing brilliant work.

Cons: It was uncomfortably hot. If applicable leave your jacket in the car or at home, though I know that won’t fly mid-December.

No seating! If you’re tired, you’ll have to sit on the floor.

This one isn’t really anyone’s fault but it did irk me: there’s a pole right in the way of the stage. Now I know the pole has an important job, keeping the ceiling up and saving us all from being crushed to death, but seeing more than two thirds of the band at a time would be nice.    

As for the music, Mark Webber and Christian Conner (Blanka) opened. I enjoyed the experience, but not everyone in the audience felt the same.  The two men started with a very minimal, psychedelic song that I can only describe as something that I would like to lull me to sleep. By the end of the set Christian was working away on the guitar with a violin string. I have never seen or heard anything like that before. If you haven’t either, but would like to I made a low quality video for your enjoyment. By the end of the set he was strumming away violently at his guitar with more enthusiasm than skill but it was still danceable. My friend said that she felt challenged (intellectually and emotionally) by the whole experience and I think that may be a perfect description of their performance. It was thought provoking if nothing else.  

BRAIDS, was amazing as I knew they would be. I’m a big fan with a huge bias, so I won’t talk about them too much other than to say I have a huge girl crush on Raphaelle Standell-Preston. If you don’t already listen to BRAIDS, start right now, you won’t regret it.

Overall opinion on Union Sound Hall is that they have awesome performers heading their way so I'll definitely be back. I really do like their vibe and I think it's a much needed venue that's filling the gap the Lo Pub left behind.