PlanJam!From your screen to the scene

The very first thing most people notice about LSA is the fact this place looks strikingly similar to their high school gymnasiums, from institutional stair cases to the waxy hard wood floors, right down to the caged, high ceiling windows. In fact, the only thing missing

is the caged wall clock to protect it from ricocheting dodge balls! And, since it hosts all ages shows, the floors tend to be scattered with kids squatting on the floor with their friends in a circular fashion, almost in a surreal Duck, Duck, Goose! scenario.

The large stage set against the far back wall is somewhat risen with a very good sound and lighting system to counter act the natural, echoey acoustics and also offers a decent vantage point from just about everywhere. And, when the place is at least half full, the sound somehow fills the room fairly well, with notable exception to the tiny, pricey bar area and puny, dingy bathrooms, which all seem to have been built as an after thought.

Most of the booking is done by the Empty Bottle for acts and show cases that demand a larger venue (LSA has a 700 capacity). As such, the bands booked are just as varied, but are generally of a higher caliper, though door prices are just as reasonable. Bands set up their

merch along the right side of the entrance, leaving the left side open for those who want to scale the wall a bit for an even better vantage point or for copping a squat between sets. There is a mezzanine seating section above, though the stairway is typically roped off for band members and their entourage.

While parking can be a challenge closer to show time, the Blue Line Logan Square stop is directly across the street, and a decent amount of cabs and all night buses are nearby. The neighborhood is pretty safe, so finding non permit parking a couple blocks into the residential areas is pretty secure. Just remember to keep everything of value out of sight. Also, remember to bring cash, as no cards are accepted. Food is non existent, but in and out is perfectly fine, so feel free to head outside to Johnny's Grill, Lula Cafe or Dunlay's around the corner. Also, the bar in Lula's sells cheap PBRs!

One thing that I really don't like about this place, other than the parking issue and the pricey beer, is the security guys they use. It's rumored that many are off duty cops who take their jobs way too seriously, bouncing kids like rag dolls for even the most minor of offenses. If that one issue can be rectified, I would be a very happy camper.