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Live Music Venue Review: Iron Horse Music Hall

ironHorseMusicHall
credit: www.facebook.com

20 Center Street
Northampton, MA 01060
(413) 584-0610 ‎
Online: www.iheg.com
On Facebook: www.facebook.com

All ages venue
Capacity: About 200, varies by show

At the doorsteps of Smith College in Northampton you can find an institution of higher learning, musical learning that is.  With the motto "Music Alone Shall Live", The Iron Horse Music Hall is an oasis of the best acts nestled in the countryside of Western Massachusetts. 

The Iron Horse caters to the overall experience of enjoying a show.  This is a venue that can sway your enthusiasm from seeing the artist play, to enthusiasm for the venue itself.  The music hall is a part of the Iron Horse Entertainment Group which encompasses multiple venues, including Pearl Street Night Club, Calvin Theater and Performing Arts Center, Mountain Park Amphitheater and The Iron Horse Music Hall - all within close proximity. 

The venue is basic with adornments and is built for a fun time.  The small stage has a massive PA system and ample lighting for any act.  Even though modest in size, the acoustics are spot on.  The hall houses around 200+ people depending on the seating configuration.  There are tables around the sides that can accommodate small or large groups without feeling too crowded by your neighbor. 

This venue has a skilled bar staff that serves beer, wine and liquor selections along with basic American style pub food. 

Scheduled acts can range from national and regional groups, to club-oriented DJ's; Rock and Country are featured most frequently.  Previous acts have included Pat Methany, The River Stone Boys and Cute is What We Aim For.  The venue is frequented by local music lovers plus the surrounding college crowd. Tickets can be purchased via the NBOtickets.com box offices. 

The venue is for all ages, but sternly prohibits children under the age of six unless the show warrants it.  The security staff is expertly skilled to handle all situations, crucial with five colleges nearby. 

So if you are going out to study hard in the five college system, let off some steam at the Iron Horse Music Hall.  You will surely make the grade.

Shawn Sixx is a producer for CBS Radio Boston's WZLX. He is also a contributing writer for AMP Magazine and Ryan's Smashing Life.
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