The Freight — Attraction in Berkeley

Title: A Night with Legends at Freight & Salvage

Review:

Freight & Salvage in Berkeley, at 2020 Addison St, is not just a music venue; it's an integral part of the cultural fabric of the city. My recent visit to see the esteemed Pat Metheny was nothing short of magical, offering a unique and intimate musical experience that only a place like Freight & Salvage can provide.

The venue's ambiance is perfect for music enthusiasts who appreciate a close, personal setting to connect with the artists. With open seating, the 'first-come, first-serve' policy works remarkably well, as there truly are no bad seats in the house. The intimacy of the setting allows for an unparalleled connection between the audience and the performer, making each note feel like it's played just for you.

Convenience is another plus point for Freight & Salvage. The parking next door is incredibly handy, eliminating any stress about where to leave your car. Additionally, the venue is surrounded by a variety of restaurants, making it easy to grab a meal or a cocktail before the show. This location really sets the stage for a hassle-free evening of enjoyment.

The experience of watching a legend like Pat Metheny perform in such an inviting atmosphere was surreal. The acoustics are fantastic, ensuring that every strum and chord resonates beautifully throughout the space.

Freight & Salvage is more than just a venue; it's a community space that brings people together to celebrate music and artistry. It's a place where you can support not only the artists but also the vibrant community of music lovers.

In conclusion, if you're in Berkeley and have an opportunity to catch a show at Freight & Salvage, don't hesitate. It's an experience that transcends a regular concert, offering memories that you'll cherish long after the last note has...

The Freight and Salvage started out at two different locations near San Pablo Avenue one of which I used to sweep the floors at when I was in my teens, and served as part of an underground and folk touring circuit that supported musicians traveling from around the country many who would later reach the heights of stardom. They're move Uptown to this new location brought with it a loss of some of the old vibe, but the sound is better, and their booking is excellent. Again as with the Repertory Theater across the street, this is fast becoming the spot where Berkeley Elite come to play, since the door charge and drink cost are at this point more than any actual Working Class People in Berkeley can pay anymore. This is how this entire area is turning out, it puts on the face of being about the working class, while having left those actually in the working-class behind years ago. So I love the place, and I can't stand the place. It represents something beautiful, and it represents something sad....

This review is from the perspective of a performer, although I have been part of the audience for quite a few great concerts, as well as an attendee in classes and workshops.

The crew, volunteers and professionals, are friendly and helpful, accommodating the wide variety of needs of our multi-instrumentalist band members. Sound check is a breeze, as the theater is well equipped, the room is intimate but spacious, and the technical team is knowledgeable about the sophisticated board. Backstage is comfortable and spacious, and can accommodate more than one act handily.

Showtime is always a pleasure, with the audience pleasantly close. Live sound is adjusted well, and any difficulty quickly handled.

If you want to see a great show, it sure is a good idea to go to a venue that gives its artists so much love. It will make everyone have a...