Eugene (and Springfield) Adventures: W.O.W.

There's a small place in town called the W.O.W. Hall. At first I thought it was a cute name for a music venue, but have recently come to learn it stands for Woodmen of the World and it used to be their lodge a hundred years ago. Now it's a performing arts hall that mainly showcases not very well known garage bands. But the WOW also attracts GREAT bands that if you are lucky enough to see provides quite an intimate atmosphere for a cozy and rocking show. I've been fortunate enough to see such acts as Neko Case, Iron & Wine, and Steven Malkmus there...and with a setting not much bigger than a quarter of a high school gym, you're up close and personal, no matter where you are in the room. And, if you don't want to be that close, you can go downstairs and hang out in the basement bar, where they provide lounge chairs and couches so you can watch the show with a beer in your hand. It's not the most glamorous of venues. Okay, it's not glamorous at all. I remember actual sweat dripping down my legs there one summer during a show. And I'm not a sweater. But, isn't that what rock shows are all about?! My most recent experience was last week when we saw Camera Obscura. They are a Scottish band with a lead singer who has a voice of butter and songs that are catchy from the get go. Anyway, if you happen to be coming to town and are a fan of music, check out the WOW's upcoming shows to see if a favorite of yours is happening to be playing. You might be surprised.