Chicago: Who's going tonight? *spoilers*

[LukeA]

Originally Posted by Erin

I will try to take some video tonight. Silver Springs duly noted. As for Allstate/Rosemont did you all know they "christened" the venue, i.e. they were the first act to play there in 79. It is ****ty sound generally, but I can't think of a large venue in Chicago that isn't. I think the United Center is even worse. I haven't been to the Sears Center in Hoffman Estates, however.

Glad everyone had a good time. I'm very excited for tonight!

The acoustics are about the same as the United Center, if not worse. Its an old barn (complete with wooden roof). Due to its proximity to O'Hare, the ceiling is dramatically lower than most comparable venues- thus, all the seats are practically right on top of each other, creating a very cramped, uncomfortable feel. The concourses, also cramped and confusingly meandering, give the impression they were designed by a drunken five year old. Its less than 30 years old, but gives every impression that its twice or three times that.

The main parking lot is so small and cramped that its one of those where you have to wait for everyone around you to leave first before you can go. If you can't park there, you have to park in neighboring lots and take a shuttle to the venue. Rosemont (the city) is a seedy dump, and public transportation from Chicago is a royal pain.

I've been to a lot of concerts in a lot of different venues in a lot of different cities, and, without question, Allstate Arena is far and away the worst.