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The Roseland Theater
Rating Details »
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Good for Kids:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- No
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Music:
- Live
- Best Nights:
- Fri, Sat, Sun
- Happy Hour:
- No
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Smoking:
- No
- Coat Check:
- Yes
53 reviews for The Roseland Theater
It's got an upstairs balcony (w/ bar) and a main floor. Shows are all ages typically so you can't drink while on the floor (sad). The AC was on full-blast so it was a good thing that I was drinking (keeps me warm).
The sound was a bit loud, but it got better when the crap opening band got off the stage. Security is kinda extreme (metal detectors, pat-down by huge security dudes, etc). The drinks are expensive.
Gosh, I don't even know what else to say here. I was thoroughly unimpressed.
Went to see B.B. King last night (11/10/09). He was great, HOWEVER the venue was a rathole (aka the Roseland Theater) They are very careful to make it clear that there are absolutely NO refunds, but failed to mention that general admission is really STANDING ROOM ONLY. So after paying 115 bucks and standing in the rain for an hour, hoping to get a "good seat", we found out that there WERE no seats other that the floor. Between standing, sitting on the floor and leaning against a post,we made it through the hour before the show, the opening act (another hour) we finally got to hear B.B.'s first three numbers . My back went out on me three time, and if it weren't for the graciousness of a couple who offered us they're seats back against the wall, I would not have made it through the last half hour we were there. I've waited for this opportunity to hear B.B. king live for 40 years and it turns out to be one of the worst expiriences of my life. Thank you so So much Roseland for bilking us out of our money. Maybe you should put a big bloody banner on all sites that sell tickets to your "theater" saying that general Admission doesn't inclued a SEAT!
I could only recommend this join to twenty-somethings who like to swill over- priced drink and mosh. Old guys (and there were plenty of us) were SOL and many left early. The operators of this dump don't care anything for their customers, just how money they can squeeze them for.
This is Portlands' own little piece of hell
I'm losing my edge.
The website specifies air condition...but it felt more like the sauna from hell. It is pretty damn hot lately so trying to keep it cool might teeter on impossible but it felt like they weren't even trying! It seemed like a great place to see a show however it was so damn hot I couldn't pay attention. The lighting was good, the sound was clear, sold out yet I didn't feel like a sardine.
I felt like the metal detectors and pat downs were a bit much. Luckily yelp was consulted before I went so I left my purse at home and saved myself the wait in line , I suggest you do the same.
It's a good size venue that has an intimate feel. They have ample seating upstairs to watch the band from the comfort of a chair, and tons of standing room to insure space for a dance party if needed.
This place totally sucks. Crummy location, lousy acoustics, pushy/evil security staff, standing room only. Saw Fish play here on April Fools '94(?). Would have been a classic had it been played anywhere else.
Here is a letter I wrote to the management at the Roseland Theater I just wanted to share with everyone. I never did get a response in regards to this.
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Hi my name is Doug ***** and I wanted to follow up on an incident that occurred last night at the Hollywood Undead show. First off I took a friend to this show as a birthday present and spent $70 on tickets. The reason I'm writing you is because I had a problem with the way I was treated by security. Upon arrival my friend and I went upstairs and ordered a beer. To my knowledge this was a sold-out show and the place was packed! We were unable to find any seating so we found an area to stand that was right next to a few stacks of chairs. There were no signs around the chairs saying we could not use them so we grabbed two chairs and sat down. We were in the chairs for probably 15 minutes or so when a female from the security staff came over and was extremely rude to us and said the chairs needed to be put back. I didn't get smart ass with her. Didn't give her a dirty look. Both my friend and I apologized and put the chairs back where they came from. After this had happened we returned to the bar and ordered two drinks, then returned to the area we were in before so we weren't elbow to elbow with people. Ten to fifteen minutes later were standing there listening to the music the two of us were approached two male security guards who were yelling and in our faces, took our drinks, and then told us we had to go downstairs. I asked numerous times what this was about before he finally told me "because you guys messed with the chairs". My friend and I ended up leaving because we were really upset and this incident just ruined the show for us. We didn't even get to see the band we came to see. I worked an 8 hour day and to be honest I just wanted to sit down, have a few drinks and listen to some music. I don't go to shows to get rowdy and mosh. I just want to have a good time. The way we were treated by your security staff was just unacceptable and uncalled for. I could totally understand if I was being a punk to your security and have them do what they did, but like I said I was polite. I do take into consideration that security probably has to deal with their fair share of idiots in a night, but they don't need to treat everyone like they're trash.
So here I am out $70 and the Roseland Theater really put a bad taste in my mouth. All the other show's I've ever been to there I have never gotten treated this way. I'm not a bum, I work hard for my money, and I like to go have fun when I can. This whole incident just really blows my mind and is upsetting. Like I said too I realize we were in the wrong by sitting in the chairs that were stacked, but it was an honest mistake. We just wanted to take a load off and have a good time. That's all. I know it's not going to drive you guys out of business or anything but I just wanted to let you know I won't ever attend a concert there again. I've been seeing shows at your venue for over 10 years. So I'm hoping that in the future your security can can deal with a small situation like this in a more professional manner. So my question for the Roseland Theater is there any way to follow up on this? Would you guys be willing to make it up to us? I'm happy to chat over the phone if you have questions for me. Thank you for taking time to read this.
Last night's Thievery Corporation show brought forth a shocking realization.
I. Am. An. Old. Lady.
Seriously, I think I just need to start crocheting doilies, setting my hair and handing out butterscotch candies and my transformation will be complete. Here is the inner monologue I kept hearing in my head.
It's too crowded in here.
It's too hot in here.
It's too loud in here.
It's too bright in here.
It's full of pushy youngsters in here.
Over and over I kept saying these things. My Roseland hatred now burns so bright I am doubtful I would return even for the choicest of shows. The sound sucks. Security treats everybody like crap (thankfully I did not receive the full body cavity search this time!) And now that I have become my grandmother, I shouldn't be going to concerts anyway, those are for the young folks.
Look...I had so many bad experiences at the Roseland that proverbially pooping on it has almost become a favorite past time. But when they start to get it right...I gotta take some time out and give them their proper due...
...so you don't completely suck anymore Roseland. My biggest gripes have all been by and large alleviated. The staff hasn't been rude to me the last few shows...and likewise, the security was much more lax. Getting in was easy...although getting out is still a bit of a challenge.
I don't know exactly what happened...or when...but it finally occurred to me last night at Thievery Corp...Roseland doesn't completely suck anymore. That is all.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
-
3/4/2007 First to Review
There is no doubt that Roseland gets some great shows. The sound is decent. Their is a decent view… Read more »
The Roseland gets one star beyond the minimum simply because it can hold about 1,400 people and is host to some excellent music. Its an alternative to the Crystal Ballroom and that alone is a good thing.
Everything else about this venue sucks.
Going in to a recent show, the security guard at the door sniffed my pack of cigarettes. Seriously.
The good old Roseland. Seen probably 20-25 shows there over the years. Lately it has gone downhill for sure. After reading some of the reviews I agree and disagree with many of you.
Agreements:
Security checkpoints, I mean really? My friend wears contacts and they tried to say that the visine bottle was full of liquid acid. It's not 1974 buddy.
The herding of people is terrible as well, I remember when you could leave by going out the door in between stair levels. Why close that off?
Security guards on weed patrol. If they see any kind of lighter they go careening through the crowd to see what's going on. I'm sure they don't even do this in China.
Disagreements:
The sound. I think the sound is good at the roseland, unless it's a very bassy hip-hop show.
Cameras. I see a lot of reviewers talking about security grabbing cameras and having to sneak them through the checkpoint. Never been an issue. People are always taking pics and I've had my camera in hand as I walked through the checkpoint. Most shows nowadays you can have cameras. Thought that was kind of odd.
Overall I'm giving it 2 stars, it used to be a 4 star spot no less than 5 years ago.
I almost gave two stars. (But.)
Yes, it's annoying to be searched for weapons going into a Ben Folds concert. (But they missed my don't-leave-home-without camera when checking my bag - not that I planned on taking photos, and not that I did take photos, I was just worried I'd have to surrender a battery or run back to happy hour to leave it with a friend - so three stars!)
Yes, the line to get upstairs from the main stage floor is long and tedious. (But thanks for sequestering the drunk people so that I could stay on the main floor and enjoy the show - three stars!)
Yes, I was annoyed that the show only went until 11:15, and yes, it's all-ages. (But the sound, while not great, is much better than the Crystal Ballroom, and the tickets were cheaper too - three stars!)
Yes, it took about 25 minutes to get out. (But it's conveniently located 2 blocks from my bus stop and a short walk to the Max - three stars!)
I won't repeat the mistake of going here during the summer because it does get really hot. With the convenient location and the wide variety of shows, I'll surely be back though.
What is wrong with Portland and their"no standing in the balcony" policy????? Seriously, eff you. I can't imagine this happening in Seattle.
We went here to see TV on the Radio, but apparently we should have held on to our Sasquatch tickets. I can't believe what a ruckus these lame people raised over standing in the balcony. I've never heard of such a lame crowd. I'll stay in my city next time.
I came here for the first time on a Friday night for a Crystal Method show and was immediately blown away at the space layout. It was the perfect mix of openness + intimacy -- not too big, yet not too small.
The acoustics were great, the crowd was totally into the show, and the crew I was rolling with found it easy enough to snake our way to the front of the stage once the show started. [I've been to tons of shows in my day and this was probably THE CLOSEST I've ever been to the front of the stage, and yet no one ever smashed into me nor did I ever feel claustrophobic!]
Now, given this was my first experience at a Portland music venue, I can't quite make a statement like "Best Portland-based venue EVER!!" .... not yet, at least. However, since this is THE ONLY venue in Portland I've hit up thus far, it takes the number one spot for now -- and I'm convinced that it'll remain there, for my time here was so memorable and so wonderful, that The Roseland will forever be etched into my brain as such a magical place.
I'm really happy Portland has a place like this right downtown. It's a nice, mid-sized venue, and super-central to all kinds of bars and restaurants. Plus, I would think a real wide variety of bands would have all they needed to bring down the rock at this location.
They did make us walk through a metal detector, and search us upon entry. And search they did! Ahem, yeah...the lady at the door ripped through my purse for like 2 minutes straight and found something I didn't even know I had in there. I did end up losing it to the trash can. (So save your 'party' for the parking lot on this one!)
Again, they had the 21 and over people who wanted to drink crowded at the upstairs bar which was seriously annoying, but once the crowd thinned down a bit, the view from up there is literally perfect! Highly recommended. Bud light at the bar was pretty cheap (under $10 for 2) and given to me quickly.
I didn't go down on the floor much, but it looked like it would also be decent if you're pretty tall. People 'moshed' and no one seemed to mind.
I'll be interested to see what my next experience here is like....the first one was pretty good.
Three stars....... they let you outside to smoke and the drinks the last time made me black out once I left and tried to order a maple-bacon bar.
Other than that its no fun unless yer under 28 and haven't seen many shows. Once its packed you better leave early or you'll be there a long time
OK, kiddos. The crowd at a venue really just depends on the show you are going to. And chances are the people that are at that show are into the same thing you are. Soooo if you don't like the crowd at the show you went to, that really just means one thing.
Now w/ all that out of the way. I've been to the upstairs for shows my friends wanted to go to. Gavin Degraw - obviously a gal pal. A punk show - with some guy pals. The crowd was definitely different at both, but it didn't detract from enjoying the music.
At Gavin Degraw, everyone was super nice and chill. We got really close to him and it made me love the Roseland because it has the ability to be so intimate. At the punk show, we drank & sat upstairs & laughed at the underaged kids that had to stay down there in the mosh pit.
I went to a show downstairs too to see The Pierced Arrows and The Family Gun. It was also a really mellow show with dancing dedicated fans. Everyone rocked out and you can bring your drink anywhere on the floor. The bartender was smooth and knew what everyone was drinking after a couple and would just start making them as we came up to the counter. That's service!
I love this venue just because you can make it intimate or removed as fits your mood that day. There's food if so strikes your fancy and the parking situation is never as bad as you'd think.
Raise your hand if you've ever gotten cavity searched at the Roseland!
Okay, thankfully I've never had to spread the cheeks, but I wouldn't be surprised if someone told me they had. The first time I went to the Roseland, I was deeply disturbed that I had to remove sweatshirts, and that I had a full-body brisk and purse inspection before going on to the all-ages show.
Uhhh...you at least gotta buy me dinner first. And none of your cheap pizza, either.
Anyway, regardless, the Roseland clearly doesn't have better or more accurate security than any other non-brisking venue. Every show I've been to has had its share of teh weeds, and about two seconds after a joint is lit, some security ass runs through the crowd yelling and hollering to PUT IT OUT! Don't do that! It ruins the overall concert experience for everyone else. And dude, it's the Dandy Warhols. They probably WANT you to SMOKE IT (it's even one of their songs!).
And the fact that their 16-ounce bottles of water are $2.50...you can bring them upstairs, but NOT back downstairs again...que malo!! That's just plain douchebaggery.
End rant.
But in all honesty, though, I will choose the Roseland over the Crystal Ballroom ANY DAY. The venue is not necessarily better, but unlike the McMenamin's counterpart, the Roseland actually knows when to sell out a show. I've yet to go to a show here and feel like I'm a little fishy packed in oil in a tin can. Same show at the Crystal? Sweet baby Jesus, get me OUT.
For this reason, and this reason alone, I dole out four stars. Keep on selling out [those shows]!! But leave my voluptuous booty alone!
After a wonderful picnic dinner watching the Swifts roost with Chris L., Lizzy B. and a bunch of their friends we headed over to the Roseland for the Spearhead show. I was warned it was a crappy venue...but jeez.
We got there to find two lines leading to metal detectors. I'm from LA. We have the worst gang problem in the country. There have been shootings literally next to the house I grew up. I have never, ever had to go through metal detectors down there. Nevertheless, the metal detectors were a mandatory evil and Chris L. and I got in line. Soon a security guard told Chris that the right line (which was going much faster) was for men. That's cool. I can wait by myself. Yet, right after Chris got through security, a bunch of women got in that line. Excuse me? Really?
So obviously, I was a little upset when I finally made it through. We then climbed the stairs to the stage level. We then had to stand in another line to get to the drinking balcony. When we finally made it through THAT line we got to the not so full balcony. Really? I can easily find a seat? With a five minute wait to get up here it best be full. But nay. They are just doing that club thing. Of course, this isn't a club. It's a music venue. It has no place doing that.
So finally I'm settled with a beer and a chair. Spearhead goes on. The sound was horrible. I've seen them before at an outdoor venue and the sound was, well, good.
After trying to dance in the balcony just to get hurt by the chairs, I finally went to the downstairs bar. I'm sorry, but I want to see bands live; not on a big screen. It was just so horrible everywhere else that it wasn't worth it.
This venue is just so bad. Even bad venues usually won't deter me from seeing a band I like. This one will. I will have to love., LOVE the band to even consider another trip to this firetrap death hole.
As I instinctively reached down to remove my shoes, I quickly remembered that I wasn't standing in the airport security line...no, the imposing walk through metal detectors and complimentary "pat down" service were the requirements for gaining entrance to the music venue. Thank God for such vigilant security, we sure wouldn't want anyone sneaking a joint into a concert.
While the Roseland may have gotten big screen fame from the Andrew Dice Clay blockbuster "BrainSmasher...A Love Story", I will always have fond memories of a 102 degree summer day in the early 90's when I witnessed Danny Elfman and Oingo Boingo rock the place. Although back then, none of us knew who that opening band called "Three One One" was, but hey they weren't bad, and they might even go someplace someday.
The Roseland has character, but really is not suited for big concerts or lots of people. While the balcony seating does allow for segregation from the under 21 children, the bar is way too small and becomes cramped quickly. Recently I have taken to the downstairs bar, where the bar line is small, and I can watch the show on the big screen while flinging myself across the room in one of the numerous wheeled chairs. Yes, simple man, simple pleasures.
The Roseland is ok, and unfortunately several times a year I find an artist that I must see has chosen it as its venue.
Wow! This might be the first venue I've seen that consistently receives an average of 2 stars, and I can see the concerns. I've definitely been to better venues too but I've got to give this place an A-OK until I see something that really sets me off.
Aside from being in here once for some random reason that I cannot remember, the only two shows I've seen within ol'Rosey were during Music Fest NW (Mogwai and Hot Water Music) and both of which were awesome experiences. Perhaps as Kim V was getting at in her review, the strength of this venue rests with the crowd the band attracts.
Mogwai attracted a crowd ready for music. When people would shout during a song, a loud "SHHHHHH!!!!" would follow. It was evident that the house was 99% on the same page regarding shutting their traps while the tunes were performed. That was awesome.
Hot Water Music brought down the house. I venture to say that every soul in the building (well, maybe not the security staff) was singing along to their anthems. HWM showed their appreciation as well, stating "We've played Portland countless times and all we've got to say is, where the f**k were you guys?".
But then again, the reviewed concerns are valid and for example, just because you're stuck in an elevator with five of your best friends doesn't make being stuck in an elevator a cool situation when it all boils down.
The Roseland is a fire trap. If a fire ignited, you would die. Unless of course you're one of the lucky 50 or so people who stand back by the stair case. Like Don wrote, if you were in the front most corner of the balcony... well, bummer. I only spotted one fire exit in the front most right corner of the balcony. Granted, I'm no fire marshall and wasn't there to conduct a thorough inspection but the odds looked stacked well against the 1400+ capacity the venue boasts.
About the balcony bars. Portland is into that crap for some reason and I just don't get it. The House Of Blues in downtown San Diego has a similar set up. Herding hundreds of the 21+ crowd upstairs for a drink is awkward and non-efficient. Why can't this city figure out the art of 21+ wristbands? That would solve everything. (...Actually, put liquor in grocery stores while you're at it too, thanks.)
The sound at both shows was reminiscent of a large square shaped venue but sounded just fine to me from my location by a pillar to the left on the floor, the balcony and right up front and a constantly changing (ie. PIT) row or so from the stage.
Drink prices were typical, and as usual if you go to a server of the opposite sex you've got a better chance of a stronger pour. Strange how that works out.
Lastly, and completely out of order, entrance into this place is hilarious. If it weren't for the shabby decorations and tragic looking youth you might think twice about where you put your boarding pass. Metal detectors? Really? Am I flying? Why don't these jackasses have the approved TSA uniforms on!?
Sure there are gems, but metal detectors are a sure sign of two things. 1. All age venue and hood rat kids.
2. The Roseland regularly books some crappy bands, drawing some equally crappy crowds. (see #1)
By the second show however, I started to have my doubts as to if the metal detectors even work. Guys all around me were talking about the metal plate in their knee, or a big belt buckle and chain wallet that didn't set the machine off. I'm pretty sure they're only looking for the drugs. The rest seems to be a bit over-exaggerated.
Anyway, two good shows down and hopefully my string of decent experiences in this place continue. If not I'll be joining the rest of you folks in giving this venue a miserable finger.
Have been to many a concerts @ the Roseland and it's by far my favorite place to rock out!
You actually have a chance to meet bands there, in freakin person unlike anywhere else! I met Kevin Martin from Candlebox there! It was so Rad!
With security like that, you'd have thought we were heading back to Amsterdam again. A girl can hope right?
I don't know about you, but I enjoy being patted down before a show. It makes the experience all that more enjoyable. I like that I could be considered Portland's Most Wanted. I almost want to put obscene [but legal] things in my pockets for fun. The fact that they do it only goes to show what kind of classy clientele that must frequent the place. I didn't see the drug sniffing dogs until the show was already over, but I'm sure they were there somewhere. Constant vigilance!
Upstairs takes you to the balcony/bar. Prepare to get your arm stamped. I didn't get any grief running back up and down the stairs between shows. They let me pass without issue or standing in line. I bet the line could get massive, but it wasn't when I was there.
I actually liked the balcony, but that's because short people like me tend to get the shaft on the floor. Plus I don't enjoy the pit. I'm sure it's fun and all, but considering I'm the perfect size to get an elbow to the face, I think I'll pass. Most seats in the balcony are good, but they are pretty close together.
Be warned if you're in the back row of the balcony. I was getting a beer bath during part of the Bouncing Souls set because some moron standing behind me leaning against the rail was doing the Macarena with their glass and didn't realize they were sloshing all over the place. I suppose it could have been worse.
Like Berbati's, the bands that grace the stage are this place's saving grace. At least it wasn't a sauna.
NOPE.
Not only to show-goers in Portland seem to have extra amounts of pent-up anger, aggression and hostility, they are volatile, violent and abusive.
Now, this isn't necessarily pertaining to the venue specifically, but the crowd contributes to the experience, doesn't it? After getting more than a few beers thrown on me from some drunken ex-high school hero in the balcony, and being forced to tolerate the skunky stink of some 14 year old getting high nearby, I get the pleasure of getting completely pummeled in the mosh pit (not my first time, but I really don't think anyone should be throwing legitimate punches at people who aren't really moshing) but I also got knocked down. What's that douchebag? You're NOT going to help me up? Thanks... I definitely came pretty close to getting a broken leg compliments of the 300 lb linebacker pinning me to the ground.
The floor plan sucks. It reminds me of a smaller version of my high school gym.
I'm not gonna make any more special trips to Portland to see a band ever again.
The Roseland Theater seems to be a vortex for every drunk frat-boy asshole in Portland. Even though I've been to numerous concerts at the Roseland and I cringe every time I see it listed as the venue of choice for whichever band I'm looking to see. It's to the point where if it's just a band I'm moderately interested in, I'm skipping it just to avoid the hassle.
The layout of the venue is horrible. There are two GIANT MOTHEREFFING COLUMNS in the middle of the floor. If you don't arrive hours before the doors open and the opening act comes on stage, you will inevitably get stuck behind one of those blasted things. Or maybe it's just me, but I always seem to get stuck behind them. Or shoved out of my spot by the aforementioned drunk frat-boy assholes as they tear their way through the crowd to RAWK OUT and displace those of us who arrived early for their spots in the crowd.
I've only gone to one show since being legally of age to go up to the balcony bar area. I arrived early, got myself a vodka and coke, and procured myself a seat. I then did not leave my seat for the rest of the show even though I wanted another way-too-exspensive drink fear that my seat would be poached if I even moved for a millisecond.
The Roseland get's good bands and performers, there is no denying it. But it is just the least palatable venue in all of Portland for me. I'd much rather bounce around on the ball-bearing floor at the Crystal Ballroom.
In a city full of great music venues, the Roseland is just so-so. In a lesser town, it might be a spectacular venue, but not in the City of Roses. The first clue that something is just not quite right is that you have to walk through metal detectors to get into the venue. Where are we? South Central? This is Portland, people! Once you get through security you head upstairs to the main floor of the venue and see a very large room. I'll give this place props for having a huge stage, and although there are poles all over the place that can block your view, it's very easy to get a great spot really close to the stage, as the room is huge.
The biggest drawback to this place is the location of the bar. In what world is putting a bar up a flight of stairs a good idea? Stairs and drunk people do not mix well. There are a couple of other venues in town with this set up (Wonder Ballroom, Crystal Ballroom) but at the other venues you have a choice of an upstairs or downstairs bar. At the Roseland, this is your only option, which means if you want to have a drink and watch the show, you are forced to hang out in the cramped upstairs bar area or the balcony. It seems like a fire hazzard, and for sold out shows it's impossible to move up there. 80% of the crowd for most shows I've been to is drinking, but they're forced into a space that is 1/4 the size of the main floor. Makes no sense.
I haven't noticed any good shows at the Roseland in a long time, either. I'm not sure if they have a different person booking shows, but it seems like I used to go there semi-regularly and have caught bands like Wilco, Broken Social Scene and Cat Power (one of her famous melt down performances) here. I've seen Issac Brock of Modest Mouse get electrocuted during a guitar solo here. These days it just seems like a lot of DJ / rap shows getting booked here, which is fine if that's your thing, but it ain't mine.
I should be clear I am writing this review from a specific point of view and that point of view is as follows: I don't care about imbibing alcohol or sitting down at rock and roll shows.
If you like either sitting down... or the consumption of alcohol you won't have a good time at the Roseland, because at its heart is an all ages, standing room, general admission club. Alcohol is only served upstairs in the balcony and you can't take alcohol downstairs. No sir, no roped off downstairs drinky drinky area. AND the balcony is full of seats... soooo, if you want to drink you have to sit down or be one of the few people they let crowd in the back (where you will be far from the show) or need to drink it fast and then head on downstairs. If you want to sit down you need to be in the balcony, but then Portlanders who sit in balconies get all cranky if you stand up because, HEY if you wanted to STAND during this show, you could just go downstairs where all the people are standing.
So annnnnyyywayyy, I have been to the Crystal Method and PJ Harvey within the last 4 weeks at the Roseland. At both shows I enjoyed a refreshing soda, was very close to the stage (and at the CM show I was even very late and still could get pretty close in the corners) wasn't too crowded (they don't seem to oversell venue too bad) and could hear what was being performed just fine.
That being said, I wish they'd crank the AC a little more and that the sound was a little less muddy, but hey, I agree sound here is better than at Crystal Ballroom and I always have a nice time. As long as I don't go upstairs that is....
I used to go to The Starry Night back in the day, and even was there as a child to see my Dad's band perform. I do really like the space, as I always have. There are virtually no bad seats or standing areas and the balcony offers a great view. That being said, I would be hard pressed to visit The Roseland again unless I really couldn't live without seeing the band.
I recently went to see Blondie (A band I couldn't live without seeing), and was reminded why I hate going to this venue these days. I understand that they do a lot of heavier shows with a young rowdy crowd and therefore have more security and hoops to jump through than the airport!?! Blondie has some younger followers but I'm in my mid 30's as were most of the crowd or older. We are not a threatening group. We shouldn't be treated like inmates being given a tentative pass to enjoy some entertainment. We are presumably law abiding adults who spent good money on a show and whose worst crimes are generally trying to sneak camera phone photos of the band, a crime that brings a mass wave of bouncers tearing through the crowd nocking people down to tackle the poor soul who only hoped to capture a memory. The security is like a group of wannabe rent a cops hopped up on steroids and red bull! And the whole entrance setup is the most disorganized cattle herding ever, all seemingly meant to degrade and train us inmates so when they tackle us later we won't stand up to them.
I just don't think they need to run every show like this. Their must be some common sense and customer service applied to make this a good venue again. Luckily after all the ugliness with the staff, Blondie kicked ass!!! But, that was always going to happen...
"Meh. I've experienced better." ...is the perfect way to describe this place.
3 HUGE gripes about this place.
1) The basically oversell the shit out of every concert if it is possible. They seem to have little to no concern over how many people can comfortably fit into the space...which is most likely directly related to the fact that their capacity rating dependent on a HUGE bar on the ground floor (never occupied during a show) AND a cafe (also, rarely occupied during a show)...which, in my own highly uneducated and unprofessional opinion. There always seem to be well over 200 people overcomplicated.
2) The bar area in the concert. GIVE IT UP ROSELAND, stop with this ALL AGES B.S.. If you want to sell booze, sell it and allow it on the main floor. Your balcony drink service is crowded, reckless, unorganized, and borderline...nay, absolutely dangerous. God help these people if somebody sparks a fire in that balcon, because if there were a fire it would be mayhem getting through those 3ft wide hallways on either side of the staircase.
3) The sound. Terrible. You either have to chose between standing WAY too close to the two towers of power to get a decent aural experience, OR be overwhelmed by one channel or the other on the extremes. This is the 21st freaking century and I really would appreciate them ceasing to use the sound-rigging design from the memorial Coliseum when the Beatles played in '65.
Dear God:
Please find it in your powers to provide Portland with a music venue, appropriate to Rock Concerts with a capacity of 2,000-4,000 people with even a slight semblance of allowing a positive experience for the average concert goer who wants to have a good time.
Thanks,
Me
The Roseland Theater is pretty average. The sound was decent for Gogol Bordello. Anything louder might be an issue. I'm surprised to read that security was so strict . Fortunately, I never heard the snap of a Latex glove behind me. It was actually pretty quick and painless ... except for that index finger in my butt. Just kidding.
What I found most interesting was the bar, which you can visit with or without a ticket. If you wanted, you could go to the bar and watch the show on the two big-screens. However, as a non-smoker I thought I was going to get lung cancer in the course of one hour. I could barely see my hand in front of my face ... this is coming from someone who is pretty tolerant of smoky bars (ahh Europe).
Overall, a good experience, but this is Portland, and there are much better venues if you know what I mean. Snap!
Was I impressed . . . No
Did I enjoy myself regardless . . . Yes
Could I have enjoyed myself MORE if the venue had been cooler . . . Ummm Probably (Definitely)
How do I feel about that? Oh well.
The thought of a head full of acid in this fire-trap is too much to ponder. Then again.......
They do book great shows in here, but it is a dank, dark shithole. Sound is good sometimes, not so good sometimes. I'll take the Aladdin Theatre any day, but sometimes have to bite it and go to Roseland or Crystal, but always grudgingly.
This place is a death trap. Go sit in the front corner of the balcony when the house is packed and tell me how, if a fire were to start anywhere in the venue, you would make it out alive.
Oh, and the sound is generally marginal and the place is dirty. One extra star because the security staff doesn't seem to care if you A) get overly wasted, B) smoke mad weed in the balcony*, and C) dress like a juggalo**.
*I have witnesses an insane amount of weed-smoking in Roseland
**I have seen a lot of juggalos come out of shows at this venue (during the time I was working for an unnamed club across the street).
Booooooooo
It's dirty, the layout and sound suck, and the staff are absolutely terrible. I made the mistake of electing to see a show a here that I could have seen in Seattle at the Showbox. As much as I loved the artist, I wanted my money back after that.
I am always half-expecting the last square nail in the last old wood joist in the ceiling to come popping out and the whole building falling like a house of cards.
I saw Jonny Lang here and he rocks, but even he couldn't distract me from how uncomfortable I feel in this place.
It's too dark, the steps are too steep, not enough handrails for the stairs, especially when you've been drinking upstairs in the balcony. I'm surprised more people haven't broken their necks falling down the stairs here.
Overall it's dirty and run-down, and *hello*, I came to hear a band, not collect a contact-high from the gazillions of stoners lighting up all around (and not discreetly).
I'm a Portland native, who ran away to San Francisco, whose music scene is pretty amazing. I've been to the Roseland for many different concerts, and it's a typical small venue, the layout reminds me of the Warfield (here in SF) only you have to go up stairs to get to the stage and the bar is up another set of stairs only 21 allowed, so they can allow minors. I recently hit this club up for the NYE Wu-Tang show and it was great, Just like I remember the place.
I gotta say small venues are my fav, your right by the stage no matter where you are, so your not miles back with binoculars glued to your face still only seeing the stage at miniature status, blah no way to see a good show. And the people are "usually" pretty chill which makes the show even better.
But I'll give all the people who knock this place a little credit, it is seedy & dirty & usually over packed. And the layout leaves something to be desired. But that's what makes small venues so great & the good ones are all the same.
When famous Euro Trash DJs come to town, where do they play? The Roseland was a cavern just yearning to be filled up with dancing club heads from Beaverton on a recent Thursday. Sasha and Digweed gave us riding the rail of the front rows something to shake our booties to. Oh, but that's a show review.
The venue. I liked it. It had a gritty rock star feel. I especially like that when a lot of people jump up and down the floor moves almost like the one at the Crystal Ballroom. Post show the bathrooms were even do-able although they probably get long lines and manky at a Metallica show. I liked all the framed concert posters for decor and it's position right on Burnside is super easy to find.
For this show they sequestered the drinking upstairs to the balcony area which forces you to sit when drunk. Personally, I like to dance when under the influence of a bit of tha... But the one time I did wander up there, it looked like it gave friends a territory to stake out and socialize with other like minded imbibers.
The metal detectors and search out front is pretty thorough and a bit intimidating (rejected TSA employees?) but overall, it had a scent of the Fillmore West and that made this gal right happy.
The staff at the Roseland has been described in quite a few ways, but warm and cuddly are not two words that come to mind. But they were polite, even when the security guard emptied the contents of my purse onto a table so anyone walking in now knows which tampon brand I like. The bartenders poured my beer quickly. The cocktail server complimented my ability to get money out in a timely fashion, and was a lot more indulgent with the chuckleheads who sat behind us than I would have been in her position. I know there are ways to be authoritative without bringing down the mood, and the staff (at least the night I was there) towed the line nicely.
And all that didn't really matter, because I really loved the sound from where we sat in the balcony. The opening band had three guys with a fairly standard two guitars and drum set arrangement (except for the accordian - yay), but the acoustics made it sound like they were playing from the inside of my cranium with a wide range of instruments. Depending on the kind of music being performed and the crowd that shows up to see it, I could see this venue becoming the scene of a minor riot. It's small and hazardous enough - keep your eyes on the stairs - that a whole lot of damage could be done. But for the show I attended, which is probably a credit to the quiet professionalism of the staff, the most harm occured when we exited the building and had to wade through the cloud of smoke.
I have experienced better in a venue. Saw Mogwai there to start off MFNW the other night. Sound is pretty good, but the overall venue...I mean come on. First off, it could very easily be Great White volume 2. I would venture that only 50 people would get out alive, the rest would be charred. It's set up weird. I don't understand the balcony bar that is prevalent in PDX venues, but overall this isn't my favorite venue, especially in the PDX area. Mogwai did put on a hell of a show and I am looking forward to Hot Water Music playing, but I'm not psyched its at this venue.
Although I have enjoyed some pretty rockin' concerts here, the Roseland is a bit dingy. The food & snack selection is weak, but their drinks are always strong. I've been there for a couple concerts and the downstairs seating was PA-acked. And upstairs, aside of the giant mosh pit of teenagers in the lower half, the alcohol serving upper half was kinda naked.
It probably had something to do with the types of music I went to see, but hey it's a different experience every time, and a venue to see some fairly big names in music. My favorites I saw there were Joe Bonamessa, and Suburban Legend. All in all, dress casual and don't be shocked if you get a little beer spilled on you.
If it wasn't for really good shows that come through here, I would never ever go. If you're sitting, chances are you're behind a pillar. The worst part, the absolutely f*ed up upstairs/downstairs militancy of the usherfolk. Listen aholes, I got the stamp the first time I went up, why do I have to wait in an ass long line to get back up after running to the can? I just hate that.
Ever been to prison...getting through security is like getting the shakedown from correction officers. I would describe this security staff as the lowest of low rejects of society.
Rent a cops are failed police officers, Roseland security are failed rent a cops...it's sad; screw them.
Then when you get in, it's like whatever you're doing there's at least one security personnel trying to bust you for something. I'm talking even if you're not even doing anything!!! Sadly, I still go to this venue to support my musicians.
The secret to sneaking in...Just hang out in the bar, and wait right by the entrance of it, get your friend upstairs to come down from the venue. As they're rolling down the stairs walk towards the bathroom, have them do the same. One the way down your friend will get a fresh reentry stamp from one of the Nazi security personnel. While that babies still wet, apply it to the top of your hand...what you get is a free fresh stamp!!! Don't let them see you...they'll throw your ass out with some muscles.
