April 1st, 2013. Doors open for the first time at 334 Delaware Ave. Buffalo, New York. A promising location and a lot of community buzz play into a successful launch. Hosted by After Dark Entertainment, the first show features Polar Bear Club supported by local acts. Taking a look at the local scene in Buffalo for some time had now left much to desire. A series of venue closings and low turnouts created a lackluster vibe around many Buffalo music fans. Many were used to attending Xtreme Wheels Skate Park or Mohawk Place, two staple venues around the city. A devastating blow to the hardcore and metal scenes included the closure of The Funeral Home. With shows being harder to come by, and low draw at locations like The Forvm, there needed to be a new space to convene upon.
Then came Waiting Room Buffalo. From the moment you step inside, the room feels different from other venues around Buffalo, New York. Despite the smaller capacity, there is a lot to offer. The atmosphere is comfortable, has appealing décor, and friendly staff. Events range from major tours to live band karaoke, yet the experience always feels intimate and personal.
After Dark Entertainment has been instrumental in providing shows and events at Waiting Room. A company that has time and time again risen to bring quality tours, venues, and entertainment to Western New York. This is no small feat, as Buffalo, New York is still coming out of a downward turn in population and economy.
One person who is an instrumental part of the After Dark team would be Dennis Ferry. Hard working, friendly, and devoted to the growth of the music scene. From the first show I attended to the show a few nights ago, Dennis has been at the door to greet concert goers. Playing host and coordinator at thousands of shows, his support of Buffalo music is unparalleled.
After Dark Entertainment and Waiting Room Buffalo are a crucial part in the survival and revival or local music. They provide a location, events to attend, and extend their reach into bands of all ranges. In a city where tours are often overlooked for larger markets, Waiting Room has begun to fill with tours from Basement, Turnover, The Word Alive, and many other national touring acts. This is a testament to the company and fan base that After Dark have built.
There are shows and events almost nightly at Waiting Room, please see the list below of upcoming events and plan to attend one or more. Better shows come with better turnouts, and this stems from local music to larger acts.
Upcoming Shows:
September 12: Huey Mack at The Studio at Waiting Room
September 15: Fat Wreck Chords Documentary at Waiting Room
September 18: Astronautalis at The Studio at Waiting Room
September 20: For Today Farewell Tour at Waiting Room
September 22: SOMOS w/ Free Throw at The Studio at Waiting Room
September 25: The Dear Hunter w/ Eisley at Waiting Room
September 28: Electric Six at The Studio at Waiting Room
September 30: Kill The Clock w/ Sleepfirst at The Studio at Waiting Room
October 1: The Werks at Waiting Room
October 4: Hundredth w/ Trophy Eyes, Burn Book, and more at The Studio at Waiting Room
October 6: Dance Gavin Dance w/ The Contortionist at Waiting Room
October 6: Dreamers w/ Younger Then at The Studio at Waiting Room
October 7: Inter Arma w/ Call of the Void at The Studio at Waiting Room
October 9: Bungler w/ Lifelink, Revealer, and more at The Studio at Waiting Room
