Concert Review: Joe Bonamassa - The East Coast Run

Can someone overdose on too much live music? Too much of a good thing? Perhaps not, but they can go into withdrawal symptoms. In seven days, I attended eight live performances by none other than our COO, Joe Bonamassa.

The first performance was slated at a venue called Toad’s Place in New Haven, CT. I have never been there, but was told that this was to be the ‘replacement’ venue for Webster Theater. A few weeks prior to the show, the street team coordinators got a message from the team Captain stating how important the Toad’s Place show was. That this very show could catapult Joe into a bigger, better venue the next time he’s in Connecticut. But, he had to have a really good turnout at this venue. Then Captain Stu quickly put together a newsletter for the fans asking for their assistance, too. I can say that there were a lot of folks pounding the pavement to get the word out. And special kudos go out to Beef Stew and his staff at WCCC in Hartford for plugging the upcoming show weekly, and having a live interview with Joe the Sunday before the scheduled performance. According to Joe, the turnout was 250. Not too shabby, considering it was a Thursday night.

Let’s see, Toad’s Place. Why I had the preconceived notion that this venue seated 750, stadium style? I have no idea. It is more like 350-400 standing. There was seating for maybe 50 off to my right of the stage. Between the stage and the seated area, you can take a walk through the jungle to the game room. Yes, jungle; the walkway is lined on both sides with huge plants, leading toward pool tables. Also, one third of the club is sectioned off for the under 21 age group.

Toad’s Place is notorious for having major touring acts grace their stage. In 1989, the Rolling Stones chose this very club to kick off their “Steel Wheels” tour. They are also known for any type of genre on any given night.

Since I brought it up, I will give you some info. I have been to Webster Theater, located in Hartford, CT., twice now. It is an old movie theater that has been converted. Joe really does not care for this venue. It does have the capacity to hold 500+, but it is pretty rank and needs more than just a Stickup to cover the odor. My initial impression the first time I walked in was mosh pit! Nor was I very impressed with the bar area, not that you need a wristband to get into it, more because my boots stuck to the carpet and I had to make a concerted effort to take a step. That is just disgusting! Did I forget to mention that the first JB show I went to there, someone was shot outside? My second trip there, Mr. Bonamassa (Joe’s dad) took me outside and was pointing out the bullet holes in the marquee. It really is not a place for Joe or the blues. Personally, I turn blue, actually more like a gaunt green when I find out that Joe is scheduled there. Webster does tend to cater more to the grunge/underground genre.

Article Author: Tara Clark

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