Story by Liz Ptaszynski, Staff Writer
Photo courtesy of Pexels

Music has always been a powerful language. It’s the one thing that everyone seems to understand no matter what barrier they are dealing with. And while I love a great record, there is no competing with a live performance.  

There is nothing quite like standing in a room and watching someone pour their heart and soul into something that they’re doing. It’s one of the loveliest forms of art, because in the four minutes it takes for them to sing a song, you see passion, dedication, and beauty.

We are lucky enough to live in a great city that offers so many platforms for this art, and each of them are undoubtedly wonderful in their own unique way. Nestled tightly on 68 Commerce Ave. SW is a place that is sure to grab your attention.

Walking into the Pyramid Scheme the first thing you are reminded of is your childhood, with over a dozen pinball machines and posters plastering the wall; this place has a vintage arcade feel to it.

What I love about this place is that when you first walk in you don’t quite see the venue yet for the band. At first, you are greeted with the alluring aroma of hops and wheat from the great beers on tap. However, past the bar, through a magical door (that could easily be confused for Narnia), lies a dark room with a lit up stage full of promise and hope for an incredible show.

Another great thing about this venue is that it is truly about the music. Retro and classic in design, the Pyramid Scheme really lets their musicians define who they are. Though there is seating available, the room is mostly made up of open standing room, where you are able to get as close to the band as you want. It’s also important to know that this is a venue that doesn’t stick to just one type of genre. They bring bands from She Wants Revenge, with a heavier sound rooting in rock, all the way to the mellow enchantments of Watching For Foxes. They tailor music to everyone’s taste so that no one ever feels left out. Though this venue does offer a bar, not every show is 21 and up; they offer several shows throughout the week that are eighteen and up.

The Pyramid Scheme is notorious for bringing bands that rock the house and the best part is that they already have an awesome lineup forming for the new year. Some upcoming shows that are sure to catch your eye are Desmond Jones, who is playing with Fauxgrass and Mark Lavengood Bluegrass Bonanza on Jan. 6. and also an album release party from AQ’s own Conrad Shock + the Noise playing along with The Zannies and Devin and the Dead Frets on Jan. 12.

Tickets for any show at the Pyramid Scheme are always perfect for that college student budget, rarely ranging over $8, so be sure to check it out online, or grab some tickets at the door. So plan your next concert here, and don’t forget your dancing shoes and a pocketful of quarters for pinball, because it is guaranteed to be a night to remember.