Last night was a sad night in Upstate New York as area promoter Greg Bell put on what looks to be the last jam-filled evening at Revolution Hall in Troy, where the McLovins and 7 Walkers featuring Bill Kreutzmann and George Porter Jr. capped an illustrious history of jamband shows at the storied venue. Mary A. Mahoney explains the back story…

Revolution Hall in Troy, New York, has seen many acts grace its stage since it opened in 2003. Over the past seven years it has presented an array of performers from nationally touring acts like Umphrey’s McGee and Mike Gordon to younger local bands like the McLovins, who are just gaining momentum in their respective scenes. The stage at Revolution Hall has seen a multitude of musicians, engineers and concert-goers, and leaves behind memories in the hearts of many. “When you walked [into Rev Hall] you could smell all of the good times and amazing music that happened in that space…” reminisces Taraleigh Silberberg, publisher and live music fan.

The venue itself is not inexperienced to change as well. Many changes in management and ownership have occurred in the short seven years it has been open for business – and it looks like one last big change is about to take place. Early next month, Rev Hall will close its doors with nondescript plans for the future; A change which has left many patrons and fans wondering what the future holds for the venue.

Originally opened by Brown’s Brewing Company, Rev Hall has conducted business in an ambitious, eager – if not hyperactive – way. Through the passing of the torch, the overall vision for the venue became a shape-shifter, rendering it difficult for it to grow in any particular direction. With the most recent change this past January placing the management power back in the hands of Brown’s Brewing Company, it seems the identity of Rev Hall morphed for the last time.

READ ON for more from Mary on the closing of Rev Hall…

With the change came goals to evolve the venue from its 750 person capacity standing room only identity toward quieter, 200 – 300 person capacity atmosphere; goals which hold an idealistic value, yet are not likely to financially support the overall existence of Rev Hall. Especially with well-known restaurant and soon-to-be-competitor Dinosaur Bar B Que having plans to move into the neighborhood. Could the ambitious makeover of Rev Hall have hurt it? “Rev Hall was meant to be a rock club.” notes Greg Bell, owner of Guthrie Bell Productions and long time producer of shows at Rev Hall. However, Greg is not worried how this will affect the music scene in the area. There are other venues, some larger, and some smaller in which live music will be able to thrive. It is with a hint of sadness though, that producers like himself, music fans, employees and locals consider the closing of Revolution Hall.

[Photo by Andy Hill]

Have some memories of your own you’d like to share about Rev Hall? Favorite moments, shows, and/or words you’d like to say about your love for the Rev? Please share with the rest of the class by leaving a comment below…

HT Staff

Hidden Track was started in October of 2006 and features a team of dedicated contributors from across the country. This article was written by one of the newest members of our team or was a collaboration by more than one contributor. Want to contribute to Hidden Track? Send us a pitch to scott at glidemagazine dot com.

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