02/15/08

Far from the worst, it's also worlds away from being the best

by SFTripper

The Social is arguably the most established live music club in the Orlando area, and has justifiably built a good reputation for bringing in upcoming national acts as well as showcasing the best in local talent.

The club has some good and bad points. The good is a decent (not great) PA, a decent sized stage for a club, and mostly good sight lines. The bad is a woefully inadequate lighting system, small and dirty restrooms, at times surly staff, and an unbearably inadequate air filtration system that allows the cigarette smoke to become chokingly thick.

On slower week nights, free onstreet parking is generally available within a few blocks, although crime has become serious enough that those can be a few very long blocks when leaving. Pay parking is available at a couple of lots within a block or two.

The bands that play there are a mix of everything from blues to metal, with regular leanings towards an alternative rock sound. Most are upcoming acts, a few are has beens on their way back down from the top.

Overall it's an OK rock club, nothing special and far from world-class. It lacks the unique atmosphere of Flint's "Machine Shop," the notoriety of LA's "Viper Room," or the high end production of NJ's "Starland Ballroom." It's best redeeming quality is that it is a live music venue in a city which has lost more of the same than it's gained in recent years.

01/07/08

age limit?

by caroliya

My favorite bands play there but you have to be 18 or older to attend. It's not fair to all of my friends and i who want to attend concerts but can't because an age limit at the venue. house of blues has no age limit and it still serves alcohol, so i dont see why they cant let a younger audience attend.

• Cons: age limit

11/24/06

Great concert atmosphere

by sublime_concepton

Cool bar, surprisingly spacious due to high ceailings, and I like the pit/dance floor. The music is usually alternative/indie and they have some great bands that play. Great for after-work or just hanging out all night listening to some sweet tunes.

• Pros: inexpensive, good music, good atmosphere
• Cons: no dancing