04/04/07

Energy over sound

by aeh5458

I went to a concert here last year - the sound wasn't great, but the crowd was. Very energetic place, feels young and vibrant but looks older and classic. The spacious standing area is good for upbeat concerts with active crowds.

This giant 1920s-era hall boasts great acoustics and an impressive band lineup.

by Contributor

In Short
The main floor is spacious enough that you can enjoy bands without getting socked in the mosh pit. As with most venues, plan on getting hot and sweaty as soon as the action begins. Considering its size (capacity 2,300), the sound is generally excellent, with only a few weak spots. The Riv attracts top touring groups. Alternative-rock acts Bad Religion, Sonic Youth and Ministry have played here, as well as rockers like Billy Idol making comebacks.

01/23/03

Throw Back

by dshieh

I saw Jack Johnson and Paul Oakenfold at the Rive. Both times I went there is like going back in time because the place reminds me of an old opera house. It is a great place to sit down or stand there listening to a musician.

• Pros: Old School, Dark, Exotic

10/25/02

sweet!

by valorp

Nice place--especially when it's a sold-out show. The acoustics are good, too!

08/04/02

Revisit of Woodstock '99?

by ErinNation

I remember now why I will only attend shows at the Riv when there is snow on the ground. With temperatures over 100 inside (but 20 degrees cooler outside), even the Metro can invest in some mounted fans. I enjoy seeing shows in this space during winter months... parking isn't bad, cool restaurant options around. But at August temperatures, I couldn't enjoy a good performance.

• Pros: decent parking, good staff, balcony seating
• Cons: climate control, $3 water, pricey tickets

05/22/02

Good venue

by MauraYork_Citysearch

I went to the Riv to see Better Than Ezra and Cowboy Mouth, and it did a good job of containing and conveying that awesome New Orleans spirit. Like many other old theaters, it seems like only a shadow of its former self (which is a little sad), but we are lucky to have it still and I had a great time -- no problem with acoustics, sightlines or anything else. I think it is smart of the theater to have cocktail servers working the upstairs seating area.

05/16/02

great place to see a show

by jpanderson_citysearch

This is my favorite place in the city to see a show. Not too big, not too small. Good sightlines. Good mid-size venue; love the Wilco show every year at Thanksgiving. It's a great old place.