southend grooveyard

We went to our first and last concert here just a few weeks ago. Because it is winter, they did not have outdoor seating so the simply packed way too many people into a very small space. There was barely room to breath. Thank goodness we were close to the back. Most of the people seemed to know one another ( it was very much a localized community group complete with local community announcements) so we definately felt like outsiders. It was very cold at the back even with a blanket on my legs. The performer was good but the host did very little in the way of introductions as if we should all already know about the venue and the people involved. There are a few things that could be done to improve the quality of the sound. It was an interesting evening but we wouldn't make the effort to travel there again. Sorry guys :(

Went to my first concert here last week (the amazing Hillfolk Noir) and was in love with the venue from the first moment. I didn't count exactly, but I'm thinking it holds about 100 guests: about a third inside the building and the other two thirds on shallow tiers outside the building. The set up for Hillfolk Noir included a space in the middle of the indoor portion to dance, although no one took them up on the offer the night I was there. Even if you are near the back in the outdoor section you feel like you are having a very personal experience with the band. (And at the intermission you can make that even more real as people mingle in the driveway or on the grassy lawn with members of the band.) On the night we attended there was the option to buy a catered supper that included a lovely looking dessert at intermission. You were also invited to bring your own bottle, whether you had the catered meal, your own picnic or just came for the show. There were capped mason jar type glasses that you were asked to use, to keep spillage to a minimum. At intermission there was also free water with lemon and a sugary drink from one of the sponsors. Lovely woven blankets were also provided for those who wanted to use them in the outdoor section, while the indoor section had little sheep skin mats on the chairs. The energy from the very appreciative audience coaxed the band to play an entire new set rather than just a standard encore and they were only interrupted by their children who begged them to come to bed. A really fun experience! (Apologies for the quality of the photo but it gives you an idea of the set up)

What a great place! A private home owner has created a venue for live music in a large out building with two garage doors. Seats inside have fluffy sheepskin seat covers, seats outside are under the tarps but still good sound and easy stage viewing. Cozy blankets were provided.Food was available on site- a "meal plate" with beans, spankopita, curry, salad. BYOB -covered glasses were provided. Yerba mate also available.Parking is on site- we were squeezed in tighter than sardines- a bit of chaos leaving as everyone blocked in. The volunteer traffic people were great solving the puzzle of last in first out! Efficient!Only downside was the washroom behind the stage with a door that had no secure fastener. We will be watching for tickets to return to this delightful venue.