The American dream starts in Philadelphia

The Electric Factory is one of those intimate venues that you just love to hate, with their near body cavity security searches and policy about caging everyone inside like livestock until the near-end of the show. I could go on. Alas, it is one of the best venues to see a live music event. The acoustics may not be ideal, but there is plenty of room in the mosh pit and two full-service bars on the premises. The parking situation is one of the things that saves this place. You can either park right in front of the venue, provided you get there early enough, on one of the metered side streets or, like I always do, pay the $10 and park in a gated lot. I have seen more than 20 shows at the Electric Factory and have not been disappointed yet. Another attraction of this venue is its proximity to the Shampoo Nightclub which is within walking distance across the street and an ideal place to wind up/down after the show.

This is my favorite place to see a live music event in Philadelphia. The site of a former supposed-burlesque performance hall, the decor and earthy tones of the Trocadero do give one the feel of being in a time portal. This venue always reminds me of La Scala in Italy, though it is not quite as big, of course. The Trocadero is a cozy venue, where every spot in the house is a good one. The acoustics are good, even being on the balcony. There is a parking lot right next to the venue. If you get there early enough, you can find a place, if not, just pay $10 and park in one of the nearby garages. I appreciate this venue more than other Philadelphia venues because of its warm and inviting ambience. The Trocadero welcomes some awesome bands, especially if you are enthusiastic about the hard rock/heavy metal/goth scene.