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The Commodore Ballroom
Category: Arts & Entertainment Music Venues Nightlife Music Venues Music Venues [Edit]
870 Granville StVancouver, BC V6Z 1K3
Neighbourhoods: Downtown, Granville Entertainment District
(604) 683-9413
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Good for Kids:
- No
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Music:
- Live
- Best Nights:
- Fri, Sat
- Happy Hour:
- No
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Smoking:
- No
- Coat Check:
- Yes
- Noise Level:
- Very Loud
- Good For Dancing:
- Yes
- Ambience:
- Casual
- Has TV:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
42 reviews for The Commodore Ballroom
42 reviews in English
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Review from Brittany W.
North Vancouver, BC
11/21/2011
Oh our beloved Commodore! It still continues to be a winner for Vancouver's best music venue. Killer sound system, venue layout and service operations from getting in, coat check to drink service.
Been numerous times for special events, including Kaskade x2, Moby, Regina Spektor, Ames Tile and Stone Runway event, Morgan Page on Saturday and Axwell next week! Wowed time and time again by my experiences!Listed in: Ergonomically Designed to…
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Review from Edward L.
Came here for a Christmas party.
Even though the ballroom isn't as large or as grand as the new Convention centres in town, there is just something special about this place. An older style of elegance. Something in the air that just spells "classy".
There's no parking on Granville Mall on Friday and Saturday nights, so your best bet is Pacific Centre.
As I always go to the same Christmas party every year, I can't say what the food is like for other events. What I CAN say though is that the sushi they have at this even never fails to impress. Today they even had ahi tuna. That stuff vapourized in seconds.
With a ballroom, it's all about the entertainment. Today I had the honour of hearing THE Dal Richards and his band perform. The sound was set up quite nicely. It was a bit on the loud side, but at least it wasn't ear-splitting loud (which is my pet peeve with many nightclubs). The sound travels quite well here, and isn't echoey either.
As for the bar, it was a bit disappointing in terms of selection. What kind of bar doesn't have Malibu? I decided to use my drink tickets on "simpler" drinks such as screwdrivers. They don't flood the cup with ice, which was nice.
The washrooms smelled kinda gross, but guess there isn't too much you can do.
Overall, always a good time here.Listed in: 2011 Ed's Picks
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Review from Ramon V.
10/13/2011 2 Check-ins Here
History Lesson Alert! (Or: How Old Is That Ramon Dude Anyway?)
It's hard to believe that this building was opened 60 years to the month before I first set foot in here. So much history was consumed by this dance floor that I couldn't even begin to imagine the wealth of talent that has come and gone over the course of its lifetime.
It's truly one of the great venues in this city. For me, the Commodore defined concert-going as soon as I made it a habit of going to shows.
And did I ever.
Starting with The The at the end of '89, my memory can only offer a brief list of all the shows I have attended. Nitzer Ebb, Pre-Nevermind Nirvana opening with the Doughboys for Screaming Trees, Inspiral Carpets, Blur, Skinny Puppy, Sugarcubes, Happy Mondays, Mudhoney, Catherine Wheel, House of Love, Primal Scream, Paul Weller, Consolidated and Meat Beat Manifesto (amazing), Jesus Jones, Ned's Atomic Dustbin, Nomeansno, Lush, Pop Will Eat Itself, Ministry, The Pixies (several times), 808 State with Meat Beat Manifesto (again, amazing), The Toast to Coast 1040 party, Stereolab, Mr Scruff, Peter Bjorn and John, Ladytron, Broken Bells, Cut Copy with the Presets, Jarvis Cocker, Deerhoof, Blonde Redhead, Destroyer, OMD, And DOZENS more.
I am missing so many, and I would have a very difficult time trying to recall them all. And I'd do anything to re-live every single one of those shows.
In the midst of all that, there came Disco Night. For $2 you could shake your groove thing all Tuesday night long. And if you dressed the part, it wouldn't cost you anything.
Appreciation for the Commodore became painfully evident when they closed in 1996, starting a few years of concert doldrums for me. But all was well again when they renovated and re-opened in 1999 and started picking up right where they left off.
I've given up more sweat, blood and bouncing energy here than a year's worth of 6-year-old's birthday parties at Crash Crawlies.
It's thanks to the Commodore that there is a concert venue for shows up to 1000 fans who want to get as close to a band as they'd like to brave. And what a venue it is, with its spring-loaded floor, large unobstructed viewing, classy art-deco interior, and incredible location.
One wonders if all the ghosts that dwell between the cavernous walls are still enjoying it as much as we are.Listed in: Yelp's 30-day Challenge
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Review from Malloreigh M.
Vancouver, BC
6/29/2011 1 Check-in Here
God, who knew the Commodore had food? Well, I found out when I went to see a show there - possibly the 15th show I'd seen at this popular venue. They don't really have anything vegan-friendly, but those in my group who did order food enjoyed it. The fries were alright.
Of course, more importantly, as a music venue the Commodore is much more well-known. The sound in this place is pretty good, but there are definitely some bad places to watch a show from, and the layout of the venue encourages conversation at the back, which can be really irritating when you're into a band. There are also no ins-and-outs, which results in people smoking INSIDE the venue - gross.
I'll keep going, though. The Commodore is pretty much the only decent 1000-person venue in town, after all. -
Review from Dustin H.
4/6/2011
I can't believe I didn't think to review this place sooner!
The Commodore was one of the highlights of my most recent trip to Vancouver. Maybe it was the fact that I was there to see Apocalyptica (if you aren't aware of them, look them up on youtube, they're a unique act not to be missed), maybe it's the fact that I met the girl I'm now hopelessly in love with within it's walls... but hell, there was something just MAGICAL about this place.
Here in Calgary, it seems like most concert venues (save for the odd one done at a standard bar or night club) are essencially the same thing - four dark, non-attention grabbing walls, a stage, a removable barricade, and maybe a counter for bar service. Nothing special. This is probably a big part of why the Commodore blew me away. It's so original, has so much personality, and frankly is just a BEAUTIFUL room.
Furthermore, the fact that it's located so conveniently in the downtown area (my friend and I walked there in 2 minutes from our hotel which was located in an area I can only describe as 'hotel central', so it's easy to find accomidations nearby, for those attending events from out of town).
Really, I can't say enough about this place. If you haven't been, I'd suggest checking out their upcoming events calendar, finding something you're even just REMOTELY interested in going to, and heading down if for no other reason, than to see one of the greatest venues in (at least) western canada. -
Review from Rheanna F.
Vancouver, BC
1/18/2011
Holy fuck, this venue is beautiful and has an amazing sound system. When you walk in, you can totally tell why it is so highly regarded among venues of it's size. I like the option of being able to run to the front or chill at a table, and the easily accessible second balcony is great if you're short like meeee!
The drink prices are okay i guess. Dive bar it ain't, but it sure as isn't an upscale joint either. Their bartenders pour well and make some spot on drinks, so no complaints. Personally, i like that you have the selection you would seeing a band at a dive bar, even if it is at a higher cost. Better than the prices and selection at GM Place, that's for sure!
The staff are pretty cool and seem tolerant of bullshit. A friend of mine and me got invited backstage after She Wants Revenge. We look trashy, but if they were hoping we'd put out they were sorely disappointed since we just saw it as an opportunity to (what else?) drink more. We were terrors and basically tripped and slurred until someone would give us more booze to make us sit still and shut up. In retrospect, we probably should have been kicked out on our wasted asses. (On a related note: Singer from She Wants Revenge, YOU'RE CREEPY.)
As much as i appreciate the sound system and history of the place, i just can't quite give it a 5 since it almost seems too big for a hobo like me who is used to seeing shows in little venues! Plus it's so nice that perhaps i just feel a bit out of place without being able to look on the wall of the bathroom wall to find out who to call for a good time. That's just me though, so if you have any dignity and don't get blackout drunk, this entire paragraph is irrelevant.Listed in: Make Mine Music!
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Review from Mark H.
9/13/2010 2 Check-ins Here
The famous Commodore. I've always wanted to check it out and tonight I finally did.
Jo Koy (comedian) performed at the Commodore tonight and absolutely killed it (super hilarious). This venue is old school in the best possible way.
Spacious layout and lots of seating in different arrangements, this is comfy place. Drinks weren't that great, nor were the prices, but hey I come for the show, not to get smashed.
I'll definitely try to catch another show/concert here again. -
Review from Crystal H.
Vancouver, BC
6/30/2010 4 Check-ins Here
The ballroom it is! I imagine it in it's infancy during the 1930's and can't help but fantasize about what it looked like, who was there, and what was heard during those first years. Now, every time I go, I take my own trip down memory lane on the decade I've spent on that sprung dance floor.
Just a few silly highlights of years gone by:
+Why oh why do I remember the Swollen Members concert?
+An ABBA followed by the U2 tribute bands, huh?
+Legendary Disco Nights... I long for these again!
+NYE '02, or was it '03...either way, whoever slipped a bunch of us girls at the bar ruffies is still on my hit list!
Back then (drugs aside), I would have given the Commodore 5 solid stars. But now, with Live Nations mega fees, no in and outs, ridiculous priced drinks, and absolute crap selection of beer, I gotta dock 'em a star. It's still my favourite place to catch a show, but when you have to heavily pre-drink just to avoid drinking watered down or mainstream crap beer, it can really kill a fun buzz. But it still rocks when the Budos Band or The Heavy take to the stage during the Jazz Fest! -
Review from Gale L.
Vancouver, BC
1/15/2011
Tremendous history and all, the Commodore really needs to be at capacity to show off it's value as a great venue.
Whole Foods/ Capers held their Christmas Party there last night and while the lower space was full and vibrant the empty balconies loomed over all.
Service really was impressive, particularly at the coat check and the food, leading edge 10 years ago, was still working January 13, 2011. It was tasty, attractive and plentiful.
We should all so hold up so well.Listed in: Clubs
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Review from Raffy E.
Vancouver, BC
Two things happened for me the last time I was here: 1.) I saw the best show I've ever been to in my life, and 2.) I discovered a venue that I will always have on my "awesome place to see a show" watch list.
Did I mention how much I love the Commodore Ballroom and its new but old-timey flair?
First of all, the one-two punch of Jamie Cullum and rockabilly front act Imelda May left me reeling from so much jaw-shattering awesomeness that it made my brain reevaluate all my other past show experiences as it lay bruised and beaten on the floor. (Achievement Unlocked: Overload Yelp review with cheesy boxing references.)
Second, the Commodore is a frickin' cool space. Tables all around with food and drink service, AND an open floor in the center that not only lets you watch your admired act up close and all personal-like but allows you to bust a move if said performer cajoles your junked trunk to drop it like it's hot. (Achievement Unlocked: Make irrelevant use of a two tired hip-hop idioms.)
And third? There is no third! I heart the Commodore Ballroom. There, that's my third. -
Review from corey G.
4/16/2010 1 Check-in Here
If I lived in your fair city, I know the Commodore would be my nightly address.
::::::::::SHOWS::::::::::
While in town over the weekend, they had two shows which were totally corey-worthy (I caught the Corinne Bailey Rae show, but missed the Sia gig. I also saw lots of other shows advertised that I would have totally been down for).
::::::::::THE VENUE::::::::::
The space is inviting and well-catered to live shows. The venue is open with a large dance floor and framed with tables on the sides and up in the balcony. There are several of bars, so you don't have to wait long for a libation.
The sound was crisp and clear (now the bass was a bit much at the beginning of Corinne's show, but the loud screaming horde in the rear got the Sound Man's attention). The lighting brought out Corinne's sexiness and angelic stage persona. And finally, the climate was just right. I've been to many hot hot shows, and everyone's a sweaty bloody mess by shows end. For me, the temperature was just right---an important thing.
And the dance floor is hardwood--which I love. So, if you're a spinner, your ankles will be happy.
::::::::::NOTES::::::::::
o The show I went to was advertised as $32, but I bought my ticket at the door and it was $42.
o No in/out privileges
o Coat check was $3
::::::::::AN APOLOGY::::::::::
I have to send a pair of apologies to the two young ladies who happened to be standing next to me near the streetside windows of the Commodore just before Corinne's took the stage.
Yeah, it was seconds before Corinne's set started. There I was facing the stage, bobbing my head to a groove, eyes closed, and with a pint in hand (feeling super-cool in my own mind). I felt peace, maybe a little too much peace.
Because with a flash, I felt something out of nowhere softly land on my head. My reflex was to move my arm headward to swat away what ever was crawling on my head. Before I knew it, I totally sprayed a pair of unsuspecting females with a cold lager.
EMBARRASSING!!!!
I felt like such a heel!! I profusely apologized, but yeah, there was nothing I could do. So, I slowly slithered away into the shadows. Such a big dummy, am I!!
I know it's not a new dry blouse, but hopefully this song from Corinne can help take away some sore feelings:
http://www.youtube.com...
(and here's a clip from the Commodore show: http://www.youtube.com...)
"I"m soweee!" :) -
Review from Michelle H.
5/6/2009
There is something inherently sexy about a ballroom.
Even if you put the word Commodore before it. Especially if it makes me think of the old school computer.
And it does.
But that still doesn't detract from the sexiness that is a ballroom.
And this isn't just any ballroom--oh no. I'm not playing the role of Cinderella. I'm able to waltz in comfortably, complete with jeans and a tee. I would have rocked the hoodie, but venues are notoriously warm. I didn't want to let the perspiration win the battle (and for the record, it would have. Lots of people + bouncing around and singing Aside by The Weakerthans + lack of iced alcoholic beverage thanks to prices = sweat).
However, the second you get to the top of the stairs after the painless process of getting in, the view is breathtaking.
Absolutely.
Freaking.
Breathtaking.
It's huge. It's spacious. I want to call it luscious. Does that even make sense? Pillars. A huge wooden dance floor. The stage. Rows of tables. Sexy booths. Reserved tables.
Four.
Huge.
Bars.
Four. Not one. Not two. Not three. Four. Four fully stocked, fully staffed bars. Unnecessary? Probably. Worth it? Absolutely.
If you're the belle of the ball, you shouldn't have to walk far to get a drink. I also think you shouldn't have to pay $7.50 for a bottle of Heineken, but that happened regardless of what I thought.
The balcony was huge. It had a bar if it's very own, too. I couldn't pry myself from my spot on the dance floor to see what the balcony was all about though.
The sound was amazing. The sound was truly amazing. It was ridiculous.
I wanted to package this place up and pack it in my backpack to take back to Portland. I need more Commodore Ballroom in my life.
Now if I could only find Prince Charming...
(some fun videos from the show I saw:
http://www.youtube.com...
http://www.youtube.com...
http://www.youtube.com...
http://www.youtube.com...)Listed in: Sing for Me, Won't You?
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Review from s d.
Coquitlam, BC
1/15/2011
The Commodore used to be like any other venue, dark, dingy, smokey, stinky, and not fun.
I used to hate going to concerts simply because I'm there to watch a show, but I end up having to deal with drunken idiots and chain smokers. the cig smoke used to be down to my ankles and I stopped going to shows. Then they banned smoking. GREAT, I started going back, just to find out that those smokers were still there, but wait till the lights go out to light up. Damn! Now, they've cracked down on those morons and I can finally go to a show that is full of decent people, yeah Commodore! Really, get rid of the smokers, and somehow the crowds just got 99% better, no more rowdy drunks blow'n smoke all over the place ruining the show for everyone. Awesome!
And, now the place looks clean (no, I didn't get down on my hands knees to check the place out, but at least is looks nice now!). I love the fact that the place has WINDOWS. Why are so many clubs totally void of daylight? It seems bizarre to me. The window shades go down when the shows start and go backup during intermissions - very cool. I don't want to feel like I'm in some dungeon when I'm at a show (especially when there are not in/out privileges).
There are FOUR bars with one on the upper level, and there is some food served too. What I'd like to see is a nice organic juice bar -- not all of us drink alcohol you know!! I also like that there's plenty of elbow room -- I used to be crammed like a sardine in the crowd at the shows, but now it's comfortable, plus, you have options of sitting at a table, or standing back somewhere against the wall on on the upper level -- plenty of options for everyone.
The sound is pretty good, but seems to depend a lot on which band is playing and how they've set up their sound, but for the most part I've stopped standing at the front of the stage since all I can hear up there is heavy base and little or no vocals; I found that moving back to at least halfway on the dance-floor offers better sound.
Not too big; not too small; just right. Can get a good view of the stage from just about anywhere in the place. Don't try to walk in with your water-bottle or bag or anything -- they have a forced bag-check and basically won't allow any outside foods or drinks inside. I did take in my empty bottle and had it filled up inside though. -
Review from Andrew C.
6/1/2009 3 photos
If I could have updated my "Most Recent Discovery" the night I attended a show at the Commodore, it would have said, "Walking is really hard to do when you're thinking about it."
As the crowd for The Weakerthans trickled into the building, a playlist of tunes was booming from the impressive speaker stacks at the head of the stage. Lights were criss-crossing the floor, a few people were randomly dancing about and everyone else had their eyes glued to the light show on the hardwood. Then I come on the scene, a few times, walking right across the illuminated magic to the bar on the other side of the venue where I'd opened my tab.
I could feel the eyes on my shoulders - I stutter walked at first, then propped up peacock style and showed off that you-all-wish-you-were-me, where's-your-vip-pass? Wait.. where's mine?-walk, then went for that disaffected, where-in-the-hell-am-I?-walk, but I'm pretty sure it all just looked like a good old fashioned stutter walk the whole time. Yeah, it was awkward but drink after drink it got a little easier... Funny how that works.
Anyway.. This venue is pretty fantastic. Sure, it was my first visit to a venue in Vancouver but I venture to say this is the best they've got as far as asthetics, use of space and sound quality. If I saw a show here again, I think I would stand about fifteen more feet (er... umm.. 4.57200 meters) back from the stage. From where I was, it sounded like I was missing the full effect of the acoustics in the room. Watching a guitar solo that you're not hearing clearly is a bit of a bummer even when everything else sounds awesome.
On the booze side of the house, them joints are expensive. A girl ahead of me ordered three Bud lights in a bottle for $19. Holy sweet Jesus, right?
Lucky for me, the flirtatious magic spells I was trying to cast on the bartendettes were reinforced by pulling the "foreign boy" card. It paid off - well-whiskey and cokes turned into Jack and cokes for the same price. w00t w00t!!
What a nice place, though. Elegant woodwork, clean bathrooms, four bars, a great light and sound set up, and tons of room to stand. Selling this venue out would be a challange.
Be careful when you're leaving, though. The same dance floor that hosted the light show earlier in the evening will be littered with TONS of tripping hazards in the form of beer bottles, pint glasses, tumblers and spilt beverages.
Only this time, no one is watching you.Listed in: Canadia
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Review from Lindi C.
8/6/2008
Best venue ever.
I came here to see Canadian natives Tegan and Sara. What better place than their homeland, eh?
This place was well taken care of. The sound was excellent. The upstairs balcony was great. The lighting was awesome! All important things for a music venue to have.
They also had seats off to the side where you had a great view of the stage and big screens for close ups of the show. But, even standing in the back of the room, you could still see the stage. It was up high enough, but not so high you had to hurt your neck. They also had a small catering table set up in the back where you could buy food in case you got hungry.
It was definitely a great experience seeing a show here. Totally worth the 3 hour drive. -
Review from Peter S.
8/21/2009 1 Check-in Here
I wore flip flops to a rock concert.
IDIOT!
Other than my poor judgment in foot attire I had an awesome time watching two shows there this summer. Love the bouncy floor and the sound system. I must be getting on in years, because I did bring ear plugs for the last show. And thank heavens for that! I am done with the ear ringing at the end of the night. Still had a hoarse voice though.Listed in: Places that are easy on the…
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Review from namit m.
6/20/2010
Having lived and seeing gigs around the world - I think the Commodore is one of the best places to see an act.
The acoustics - o wow - it doesnt get any better than in here.
The sight lines are brilliant from pretty much anywhere.
Yes I hear you about the no "in n out" privilege, but with drinks prices lower than any neighbourhood bar on Granville Street I am not in any hurry to get out of here. Havent tasted the food in here but it looks and seems to priced right.
Kudos to Live Nation for keeping this place going. -
Review from Evilyn T.
1/27/2010
The Commodore is a good medium sized venue, and one of the very few clubs with a 990 person capacity. A lot of the bands or shows I want to check out are usually booked here, but since this is the only venue of this capacity in Vancouver, a lot of the good shows sell out super fast, or don't get booked at all cuz someone else might be booked here already. It sucks because this venue offers you your only chance to see a band where you can weasel your way up to the front row for less than $30. Otherwise you would be stuck at GM Place or BC Place in a crowd of thousands of people. The only other venue we had that was comparable was Richards on Richards, but they are gone now.
You can get service at the one of the bars pretty quick, but the prices are pretty high, so drink before you go! If you get there early enough (which I never do) you can actually get a table and they serve food, so you could just skip dinner at home and go right to the venue. There are no in and out privileges, so the smokers are usually in a rush to get out after the show, if they actually didn't smoke during the show. I like the Commodore for nothing other than the fact that I can get in the crowd and dance in the middle of people really givin'er.Listed in: Best Pubs/Clubs
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Review from vanessa G.
Vancouver, BC
5/29/2010
I love this venue. I love that you can sit if you want to, you can stand right at the front, you can lounge on a sofas, or watch everyone from upstairs. Oh and the of course the music and sound are amazing. So pick and band and you won't be disappointed. The bar is ok and drinks are reasonably priced.
One thing that it looses a big star on are prices.. they have seriously spiked in the last couple of years. You can go down to Seattle and see the same bands in equally or better venues for more then 1/2 the price.Listed in: The impress a girl locales
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Review from Sheila W.
BC
11/24/2008
Live music lovers need to get to know this venue. It's such a fun place to catch a live show because it's a fairly small venue with a huge dance floor in front of the stage. I saw The Roots here and the guitarist even came off stage and walked through the crowd while playing his guitar over his head. It was fantastic, and not something that can happen in a theatre-style venue.
The Commodore attracts all ages, and the crowd can really vary depending on the act on stage. You are always guaranteed a good view of the stage and there're lots of places to chill and escape the bounce of the dance floor.
Considering the close proximity you have to the players, the tickets are reasonably priced. For example, Franz Ferdinand is coming to the Commodore Dec 9, 2008 and tickets are $35. If someone wants to Take Me Out ... I might be free that night.Listed in: A Taste of Granville, Singin', Shakin' and Downing…
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Review from Sarah O.
8/10/2009
This venue is freaken awesome. It's nice and intimate with a huge dance floor. It has great air circulation (random observation) and I definitely felt like I got my money's worth. Well, DUH! Because I went to see Peter, Bjorn and John! They are off the hook by the way. So my only complaint was the show was too short but that's not the Commodore's fault. Also the "no ins-and-outs" policy is a downer and the bouncers outside are very rigid and unfriendly.. but my waitress was very cute and she didn't mind when I slapped her butt (I'm not encouraging you to do this). Drink prices were expectantly high but nothing outrageous. Its a shame that it's cash only though.
Anyway, I had a blast here. Find me at the next *good* concert, front of the stage, dancing feverishly. -
Review from Dani B.
4/8/2009
I used to think this was the best place to see big acts in Vancouver, but over the years I've grown to absolutely hate this place.
Here are my reasons:
-My friend works here and says they are cheap, untrusting of their OWN employees, and they've bulked up security to a ridiculous level.
-There are no in's and outs. I don't smoke but sometimes you want to go outside for some fresh air, "too bad." they say, "once your out, your out." Umm, why did I pay so much money to have you keep me couped up, it's my money I should be able to go out and in as I please.
-the drink prices are stupidly expensive and most of the bar tenders are unfriendly (except Scott Lyon).
I don't mean to be a hater but i'd rather not see these acts then go to the Commodore. -
Review from Lex C.
Coquitlam, BC
6/27/2009
Best concert venue in Vancouver. Period. No other venue has that personal, reach-out-and-bottle-your-favorite-musician feeling that the Commodore evokes.
Went to see Les Claypool here the other night, and was reminded why I was so relieved he wasn't playing at the Colosseum or (shudder) GM Place. No in-out privileges is kind of harsh, except that I don't give a shit because I don't smoke.... Having 4 different bars to be ignored at is pretty sweet... Their menu looks pretty good too, although I didn't order anything... (I can just see the Usefuls on this review now.. :p)
The floor always transforms into a deathly, yet entertaining combo of sticky and slippery by the middle of the opening band, the security guards are kind of retarded (yelling at people for dragging extra chairs to tables, while in the meantime there's about a hundred people smoking on the floor...), and someone had the brilliant insight last time of giving everyone actual glassware for their beers and mixed drinks. During a concert. Brilliant. I don't know how many glasses they lost, but it can't be cheap. Not to mention I'm glad I didn't get smoked in the head by a flying glass during the show.
But yes, there's nowhere else I'd rather watch a band. Extra star for me being able to watch a metal show and walk out of there without getting stabbed, puked on, or smelling like an ashtray splashed with beer (unlike the 'Balt). -
Review from Simon R.
BC
12/19/2008 1 photo
Even though the dance floor is less bouncy since they removed the rubber padding from underneath, this is still one of the biggest concert venues in Vancouver without assigned seating. The huge hard wood floors leading up to the stage fill up with a messy thickness of sweaty men and women, hundreds of them swaying at the back but full-body dancing at the front.
On either side of the dancing strip are leveled seats and tables, and they provide great views of the band if you can manage to find empty ones. There's also a balcony at the back above the long and busy bar, where you can sip your $6 beer and watch the changing faces of the vast crowd.
This is an amazing concert venue, host to every band from The Reverend Horton Heat to Gwar. It's located above a bowling alley, which should give you a sense of the long dimensions of the room. The only real problem is that ever since the new smoking ordinances came into effect they no longer allow people outside to smoke, which truly only inconveniences the non-smokers who have to breath in the inevitable clouds of second-hand fumes. -
Review from BB H.
Burnaby, BC
5/27/2010
Really one of the best venues to see live bands in the world. There's really not a bad seat or place to stand. The bouncy dance floor is great for '70s retro pogoing and the stage is just the right height.
Who cares really about the bar and food as it's nothing spectacular but as a live venue, it works well. -
Review from Vimi S.
Vancouver, BC
2/6/2009
Wicked venue for music, dancing, people and a an overall good time. The space is vast, open and intimate at the same time. Lounges surround the main space with bars on every side. You can see the main act at every angle and you can always move...sardines aren't welcome here! Drink line-ups are always on the move and so are the bathroom and ATM line-ups! Coat check isn't even that bad at the end...try to cut out a lil' early to avoid waiting.
I've never had a disappointing moment at the Ballroom. The sound is sweet and the people are just awesome because they're just feeling the positive energy of the place.
Get there. Dance the night away. -
Review from Dayna B.
Vancouver, BC
3/2/2009
The Commodore is no joke, hands down, the best venue for live music in Vancouver. My friends and I have a running joke that we will go see any band that plays at the Commodore no matter how disinterested we were in the first place. The atmosphere has proved time and again to works its magic on bands you weren't so sure of in the first place and amped up ones you were already stoked about.
Probably the best thing about the Commodore is how easy it makes it for concert goers. Some people may line up at 5pm for the 8pm door but I think most of us know better. Any weekend headliner at the Commodore isn't going on till around midnight and weekdays usually sit around the 11pm mark. So even if your doors are at 8 you have lots of time to round up your friends or have a bite to eat before you head in. If you have the forethought remember to get cash before you go in! They recently added a second ATM but those lines can get super long nonetheless and there are no in and outs.
If you do get there right on time you can probably snag some of the very limited seating and try some of the food. Their food is pretty good but nothing to write home about. Otherwise you'll be plenty early enough showing up at 9.
The venue itself has 4 full bars plus 1 beer stand which makes it easy to get drinks without the lines. The prices are pretty standard for Vancouver so bring cash if you plan on drinking.
Like I was saying before though, this concert is perfect for concert goers. The crowds here, no matter the genre of music, are usually courteous and fun. If you're willing to withstand the pressure of a few hundred people behind you, you can get to the front very easily for your favourite bands. At the front or not, the acoustics are great everywhere in this venue because it is so small. Also, once the concert starts it's pretty easy to snag yourself a seat if you're on the last day of a three day bender or if you've been in the most pit long enough to loose all feeling and decide to take 'er easy.
The security staff is always aware and do a great job of keeping everything under control.
Other than that all I can say is that I have seen the best concerts of my life at the Commodore and I am currently holding tickets for two more upcoming shows there. It is my happy place. -
Review from Chloë E.
Vancouver, BC
11/28/2008
The Commodore provides a beautiful harmony of current music with an edge of 1920s style. Despite extensive renovations in 1999, the venue can't escape the grandeur of its pre-Depression high ceilings and balconies.
The dance floor here is worth the admission alone. It's large and directly in front of the stage. In my experience, it's never been overly filled. So you can dance freely, listen to the music, and still see the stage: what a great combo. The black out curtains are excellent too. If a summer show starts at 9pm, you won't see a speck of daylight in the ballroom.
And perhaps best of all is how attractive the Commodore is to great musicians. Throughout the year you can snag tickets at a reasonable price to sell-out acts. But be warned: buy your tickets early or you'll be trolling Craigslist the day of the show. -
Review from Cameron M.
Toronto, ON
11/28/2008
Whatever good or bad experiences I've had a the commodore I can't argue it's the best music venue in the city. The massive size lends itself to allowing huge crowds rarely selling out and the look of the place is brilliant. I love that it still has the theatrical feel with a real proscenium and balcony and that alone tends to make my show-going experiences better.
Another factor that tends to not exist in other Vancouver venues is the choice of seating or standing. Granted the side-seating is very quickly snapped up at shows but the fact that there's choice, and that those choices are actual viable seats to watch from, is unheard of in other places. I've watched shows from the front row and watched from the far back on the side sitting and had just as good an experience on both accounts.
Also worth mentioning is the service. They have four operating bars at most big shows and food service and considering the size and amount of people, everything tends to operate pretty smoothly. I'm always Impressed at the wait staff who manages to get around the massive crowds and serve people without breaking too much of a sweat. It definitely makes showing up a bit early to a show less of a pain.
If I get tickets to a show at the commodore, I'm never worried about where i'll sit or what will happen. It's a great venue with great options for an audience member. -
Review from Megan S.
12/6/2008
I love a place with some history. The Commodore has that, and boy I hope it sticks around. The 3 shows I've been to imply that others feel the same. You can stuff a large amount of people in here and still have room to move around.
Between sets- there's seating! You have to act fast to grab it- but still- SEATING! The bars are easy to get to, and you don't have to wait long to be helped. -
Review from Luisa S.
Vancouver, BC
10/17/2008
The Commodore Ballroom is a Vancouver mainstay. Oft the site of first kisses, underage drinking and wonderful music. It's where seventeen-year-olds sought asylum in the warm embrace of then new-emerging-artist Coldplay or forgotten Glaswegian wonder, Travis. This is where people are real musicians and not glorified back-up-dancers-cum-"artists".
It's a wonderful venue to lose yourself in the music. -
Review from Tim S.
4/30/2010 2 Check-ins Here
It's a big room. It's even kind of a nice big room. But it's a very corporate big room, and it really turned me off.
I have some problems with this Live Nation-owned venue. Maybe I'm supposed to be used to this by now and maybe complaining about it just makes me the Ghost of Hipsterdom Past, but, nonetheless, I don't like:
- the smell. Nobody else has mentioned it that I see so maybe it was just the night I was there, but it smelled like frat-house basement couch the morning after -- resplendent with spilled beer and powdered cheese dust.
- Budweiser prominently on tap. Really? They're your branding partner, huh? They also have Okanagan Spring taps so I guess I shouldn't hold this against them... but I do.
- the cell-phone carrier logo being projected on the floor and on the TV sets on the walls. I know you're starving here, but I'm really not loving the attempt to monetize my captive eyeballs and all that implies about how much you respect me as a listener.
- Speaking of captive: no in and out? Who does that?
- Also, TVs on the walls! And the projected show calendar, too, with obnoxious trivia questions and everything. Feels like a cheap movie theater.
- the massive service charge on tickets for the privilege of attending a show here. Just to add insult to injury, or what?
If you can get over the mandatory soul check, it's a pretty nice space -- the exposed brickwork is nice; the windows are cool; the stage is pretty visible and there are lots of wide open spaces. But if my favorite band's coming to town, I'm really gonna hope they're playing at the Biltmore. -
Review from Laura P.
5/16/2011
I love this place!!! I went here for the first time this weekend and was amazed at how beautiful this venue is once you get inside, and the acoustics are great! Definitely not what i expected from the looks of the outside. Coat check. yep! Heavy poured drinks. yep! somewhere to sit or stand with a clear view of the show. yep! I like general admission shows but this place had tables and chairs all along both sides of stage in case you didn't want to stand the whole time. You can also go upstairs to the balcony and watch from above if you'd like too. The bartender was a nice guy who was very generous, thanks for the hangover. And, i do have to say security was a plus too. We were standing in the second row and had some girls pushing to get to the front, literally pushing and yelling, being really rude. Security saw what they were doing and instantly pulled them out of the crowd. I already love Vancouver, this is another great reason to go back!
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Review from Luisa D.
Updated - 12/4/2009 3 Check-ins Here
They're winning an extra star! Forget going to Cafe Crepe for a cheap drink before the show. C.C's service is terrible!! We got to the show early, snagged a prime table and had prompt, friendly service. The drink prices aren't THAT outrageous and you can even eat (although I've never tried their food). Getting a good table really makes the experience top notch!
Listed in: Good Times on Granville Street, A Night of Rock and Roll on…
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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8/19/2009
I love going to see bands play here! I don't care about the new 'no ins and outs' policy but I'm… Read more »
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Review from Darien C.
BC
11/17/2008
I think the true measure of a friend is whether you feel lucky to be around them. Likewise, the measure of a venue is how lucky you feel to be there. The Commodore Ballroom is one such place of which I can never get enough. Famous beyond famous in Vancouver. Not only is this the greatest concert venue in this city, but it is the greatest I've been to in all of Canada. I concede I don't go to the prairies, but I'm ranking it amongst Vancouver, Toronto and Montreal.
The room is incredible and massive. I have been to more shows here than anywhere else. Every time I'm walking up the stairs to its second floor location, my heart begins to palpitate. Sheer excitement. Once entering the room the stage at once greets you. It's large and facing a giant dance floor framed my two story pillars. The venue is comprised of many levels, each one with a bar. A grand staircase on the right side brings you to the second floor, complete with lounge sections and the fourth bar. The bartenders are very well trained and the service is speedy. The food is great, however service tends to end quite early in the night, usually before the band takes the stage. The sound system is amongst the greatest in town and leaves that familiar ringing in your ears the next day.
The Commodore has made quite the name for themselves, and so always draws the greatest bands to their stage. If you don't have dancing feet then seating is always ample. The greatest advantage here is the lay out, all tables and standing room have a view. The only concern I can impart of this place is that due to its popularity, tickets for shows sell quickly. I myself receive monthly alerts on upcoming acts, something all concert goers best do. I can not sing my praise of Commodore loud enough. Go once and I guarantee you will return.Listed in: The Places I Go Out
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Review from Mathieu Y.
Vancouver, BC
10/6/2009
The Commodore always seems to have as many security guards as patrons on any given night. The mandatory bag check is sort of obnoxious, especially if youre sitting for the event and dont want to have to wait in the huge line of people at the end of the show. The drinks are ridiculously over priced and their mixed drinks are very weak. Since the commodore banned in and out "privileges" (it's not a privilege to be able to leave a show and come back when you've paid for it!) people have started smoking cigarettes and pot inside about halfway through any given show, and usually on the dance floor. The crowd always seems stressed about "having a good time" and wont dance to the bands, indeed even finding it obnoxious if you choose to. They'd prefer to have their cellphones and cameras out, documenting the show for a later part of their lives when they wont care about seeing said band. The music is often very loud, so meeting people during the concert becomes near impossible, and yet you cant go outside!
The only redeeming qualities to this place are the bands they book, the balcony seating, the ventilation, bouncing dance floor, and ticket vending at the location. Otherwise, it's too expensive, intrusive, and confining.Listed in: Dance to this music
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Review from Linda P.
Surrey, BC
4/29/2010
What a great venue. My buddy and I caught a show on the 16 of April. This was the first time there. All the bands were great, the beer was cold, and the music loud. I will definitely visit the Commodore again soon, head-bangin' or just having fun. Only problem is... the soundsystem was not set up for talking, so you could not hear the singers actually speak.
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Review from Johnson C.
Vancouver, BC
12/13/2009
Having seen a few shows at Commodore and catching the KiD CuDi show this weekend - here's my review:
The Commodore is probably the best (general admission) venue to catch a concert in Vancouver - with it's thumping sound system, massive dancefloor and highly visible stage layout. Flanking the dancefloor are the leveled seating/table areas, so you can be in direct eyeline with the performer if you want to just chill at the sidelines (that is, if you can snag the seat/table quickly/early enough). With 4 full-service bars, a balcony, high ceilings, light show setup and a stage where you can literally touch the performers - this is a real concert venue, not a janky club.
Here's some quick pros/cons:
+ lineups to get for shows are quick - you pretty much get in as soon as you show up (this may seem like a given, but having stood in line for nearly 4 hours in cold NYC weather for a Busta Rhymes show, this is something I appreciate)
+ coat-check is $3 and you can double up for free
+ the venue is well-ventilated and spacious, so even sold-out shows don't get uncomfortably hot and (outside of the stage area) you can move around with relative ease
- no in/out privileges - being a smoker, this sucks - but it's even worse for non-smokers since it just tempts people to smoke inside (not me) and security seems to ignore this
- drinks are weak and pricey (~$10 for Jagerbombs, ~$7 for single vodka highballs - and the bar vodka is on tap - could be short-poured or watered-down) - not ridiculous, but little pricier than other clubs - but I guess they are banking on the captive audience. Definitely predrink before coming here.
- leaving the show takes a long time as the coat claim works slowly
- security does nothing to stop people filming the show - now, I take the occasional picture or two, but to the all the people in front of me filming the entire show on cell phones: seriously, do you thinking capturing your 'memories' in 240x180 resolution with monaural sound was more important than enjoying the show and not annoying everyone around you?
Complaints about annoying concertgoers that you see at every show aside, Commodore is probably the best concert venue in Vancouver. If I could pick, ever act that rolls into town (that I want to see) would perform here. A few points off for minor annoyances (that could easily be rectified). -
Review from Jeff M.
Vancouver, BC
3/29/2010
very nice venue. good lighting, has food.
unfortunately, it takes a long while to leave. and this venue draws a lot of granville street weekend warriors who'd rather chat than listen. -
Review from Victoria R.
BC
12/7/2008
The best place to see live music in the city, the renovated bar or ballroom is a diner and a club and the food is actually good. I've been there for a few concerts and love the space. The endless rows of bars, one in the middle, two on the sides and two upstairs, plus all the little beer and shooter stations are fun and guarantee a good time. The arc-windows are beautiful and the stage is huge. It's a great throw back to an older style of partying. No fancy tv's, lights or bells and whistles and it works.
