Another month, another high ranking in a national poll for First Avenue as one of the most landmark clubs around. In this case, Billboard magazine just named Minneapolis' legendary monolith of black paint one of the "10 Most Influential Clubs in America," based on input from the booking agents who send their bands all over the country. It also called the venues "The Must Plays." The list is alphabetized, not ranked:
9:30 Club (Washington, D.C.)
Bowery Ballroom (New York)
Crystal Ballroom (Portland, Ore.)
First Avenue
The Fillmore (San Francisco)
Great American Music Hall (San Francisco)
Lincoln Hall (Chicago)
The Metro (Chicago)
Paradise Rock Club (Boston)
The Troubadour (Los Angeles)
It seems rather suspect that all the clubs except First Ave and the Crystal are in major metropolises. Having been to four of those other venues (the 9:30, Troubadour, Bowery, Metro), I can say without bias that they've got nothing on our favorite former bus depot and its adjoining coat room, although the Troubadour's legacy is remarkable. It's hard to argue with the Fillmore on the history front, too. But at least we know in First Ave's case, its future looks as bright as its 42-year past. Or at least I doubt the Brick, er, Mill City Nights will replace it on this list anytime soon.
