The Orange Peel — Attraction in Asheville

The Orange Peel: A Symphony of Quirks and Quibbles

Welcome to The Orange Peel, where the cosmic forces of music and neuroticism collide like two socially awkward penguins at a dance party. Picture this: I'm standing outside, clutching my ticket, and the bouncer's frisking me as if I've smuggled in a contraband kazoo. Because, you know, harmonicas are notorious for causing global chaos.

Inside, it's a kaleidoscope of hipster vibes. The stage hosts an eclectic mix of performers—folk troubadours, indie rockers, and that one guy who simultaneously plays the didgeridoo and tap-dances. It's like a musical buffet, and I'm here with my metaphorical fork, ready to feast on auditory delights.

Now, let's discuss acoustics. The sound system? Pretty,Pretty, pretty good. I've heard worse—like the time my neighbor attempted to play the bagpipes during a hurricane. But The Orange Peel? Crystal clear. It's as if the speakers are whispering, "Hey, buddy, forget your existential dread for a moment and groove with us."

But hold your applause. When it comes to sustenance, The Orange Peel is a culinary desert. No gourmet food trucks, no quinoa bowls, nada. It's like they're saying, "Music nourishes the soul; actual food is for peasants." So, I'm left gnawing on my own existential crisis while the bass reverberates through my existential gut. Ah, the sweet symphony of hunger pangs.

And the ticket prices? Higher than a giraffe's neck during a limbo contest. I mean, I could buy a small island in the Bahamas for the cost of a front-row seat. But hey, at least I get to witness the lead singer's sweat droplets up close. Silver lining, right? Or maybe it's just condensation from their existential angst.

Now, punk and metal shows? Brace yourself. They're milder than decaf soy lattes. The mosh pit debates artisanal pickles. "Anarchy or organic farming?" they shout, flinging kale chips. It's like watching a heated debate at a knitting circle—passionate, yet oddly soothing.

So, there you have it. The Orange Peel: where the music is sublime, the frisking is thorough, and the food options are scarcer than a unicorn's tears. The universe chuckles, adjusts its cosmic bowtie, and winks. As for me, I'll be back—because where else can I find a...

Keep Music Live, Not Political: Why Venues Should Steer Clear of Politics

In a world increasingly shaped by political discourse, it’s become alarmingly common for live music venues to adopt political stances, leaving audiences divided and alienated. But here’s the truth: music venues should remain places where people come together, not institutions pushing political agendas. Live music, at its core, is an escape—a reprieve from the noise of everyday life, including politics. By bringing politics into this space, venues are undermining that very purpose, forcing an unnecessary division among audiences who just want to enjoy music.

These venues are, after all, businesses. Their main objective should be to offer great music and create a memorable atmosphere, not alienate patrons who may not agree with their stance. A venue’s priority should be the art, not using that space to make statements or endorse causes, regardless of intention. The result? A tainted experience where music lovers feel unwelcome if they don’t align with the venue’s views.

Additionally, it’s a misstep in business. Focusing on providing an inclusive space for all music fans should be the only agenda, as this ensures a diverse and united audience. Instead, when politics infiltrates these spaces, it alienates a portion of fans, narrows the fan base, and limits the true spirit of music—bringing people together.

By staying neutral, venues can prioritize the art and the people who come to enjoy it. Let the music be the voice and the cause. Let’s keep our live music venues as places where everyone, no matter their beliefs, can feel the joy of a performance, free from...

I am disabled. My first show here was not great because I was not aware of available accommodations. My personal tip is to access the pizza place in the front of the venue for quiet decompression time and a place to sit.

I reached out to management about my experience and got a lot of additional tips that I wanted to share for others so that disabled folks can have an enjoyable time at shows.

"Here are a few notes and tips for future visits to the Peel.

We offer reserved and complimentary medical seating on the left side of the room. Fans can contact the box office in advance to request seating in this area.

It is located against the wall and sectioned off to allow a more relaxed viewing experience. We also have barstools in the back that are first come first serve.

Our staff is very accommodating and always looking to help. Always let us know if there is something we can do to make your experience better, or if you need assistance accessing any areas of the venue space.

Even at sold out shows, we never sell over our legal capacity and try our best to create a fun and accessible environment for all fans. The front room is a space I have personally worked toward making available at all of our shows as a place for fans to take a break, so glad that was helpful to you.

We also offer re-entry to fans over age 21, anytime they need a break and leave through the main doors. Also for fans over 21 we have a lounge downstairs called PULP. This bar has comfy seating and though having a live stream of the show, is less loud and often a nice middle ground to take a break or watch part...