Miserably Loud At Track 29 - And Response (2)

  • Wednesday, July 9, 2014
I have been to two events at Track 29 in the past year and both were miserably loud. They were two groups I really wanted to see, Drive by Truckers (Southern Rock Band) and Abbey Road (Beatles tribute band). Now, neither of these would be what I would consider "hearing loss" genres, but after my first concert at Track 29, I wouldn't step foot in there without ear plugs. I was in physical pain while there and had ringing in my ears the following day. I brought ear plugs to Abbey Road and enjoyed the concert a whole lot more, but is that how you are supposed to experience a concert? Like you are in an industrial factory? 

You know what would make me want to go to more shows at Track 29? To be able to enjoy the music instead of having to plan on how to survive it.

Turn down for what? To enjoy the music.

If Track 29 can't, as Melvin Waddams says, listen to their music at a reasonable volume, then they should be closed down, for neighbors' and patrons' sake.

I guess I'm too old because it's too loud,

Tim Giordano 

* * *

Mr. Giordano, 

I do agree with you. You are too old.  However, I myself might be suffering from some sort of memory loss, i.e. old age, because I thought the reason "we" (small sect of the entitled) were hating on Track 29 was because of the noise emanating from the exterior of Track 29, not the interior.  Who knows...I can't keep up with the struggle any longer, I'm "old."  All I can say is that if I go to a Drive-By Truckers show (I've been to a lot over the last 14 years) I've never once left there thinking they should have toned/turned it down.  Anyone who knows this band, and happens to be a true fan, likes it loud...'nuff said about that.  

I have seen my fair share of music in my 36 years, actually about 28 years, if you start from the first concert that I vividly remember (Journey, Foreigner at The Roundhouse in the early-mid 80's).  While I'm not here to tout my pedigree in traveling the nation to see one concert after another, I will say that we are fortunate to have had Track 29 spring up from the depths of the Choo Choo complex.  Adam Kinsey & Co. have breathed new life into what was surely becoming another roadside attraction. There is a reason to frequent the Choo Choo complex again. And in a town destined to play host to all of America, or those that want to See Rock City, visit the Choo Choo, or walk through a cave, this is very important.  

We sit at the crossroads. Heck, we are the crossroads, and we have missed out on our fair share of entertainment over the years. Now we can have our cake and eat it too, but there are those among us that are complaining about too much icing, if you will.  When is it ever going to be good enough Chattanooga? When will we be happy with the playground that others have built for us.  This city is progressing, our property values are progressing, and yet we can't rejoice in taking steps forward.  I live on the Southside, Jefferson Heights to be exact, and I can't believe I get to ride my bike to see the Avett Brothers, Jack White, Justin Townes Earle, the Drive-By Truckers, the Futurebirds, Taj Mahal, Lindsey Buckingham, etc....how can you complain about this?  

Actually, I know how. You're going to say it is too loud in the developments off of Adams Street and Jefferson Street nearest the rear of the venue.  I get it, I do understand, believe me when I say I understand. My wife and I have lived in Jefferson Heights for 11 years and we've seen, heard, and dealt with issues that would make most of the newer residents pack up and move in the middle of the night, all while raising a 7 and 5 year old. I would have never imagined taking this much issue over a music venue that contributes a lot to the region, city, and our little area of Chattanooga.  

Living in an urban setting takes some thick skin, even in Chattanooga, and none of these folks had their hands forced when they signed those real estate papers. I'm all for being able to control and have a say in what/who comes onto or "across" my property, but I also realize this isn't the 'Burbs, and I choose to live where I live, therefore I'm not entitled to the solitude of the country within the city...even in little ole Chattanooga. 

So take issue inside or outside, find your common ground, if you can find people to stand with you. As for me and my house, we will be rocking out at Track 29.  

Ryan Coulter
Southside Strong

* * * 

First of all, Track 29 is an amazing venue.  I have not been disappointed a single time.  My wife and I have attended several events at Track 29 over the past three years from John Hiatt to Machine Head, Drive By Truckers to Girl Talk, and Jack White to Flaming Lips just to name a few.  This is not the only venue where we enjoy catching live shows, but Track 29 is the closest and one of the best. We often travel to see live shows in Nashville, Knoxville, Atlanta, Lexington, and even several festivals including Bonnaroo, Lollapalooza, and Music Midtown. 

Never once at Track 29 did I think to myself, “man I wish the sound guy would turn it down…I can’t hear myself enjoying this incredible show.”  The volume here has never been harsh.  It is well balanced, clear, and not too loud.  These are live shows.  Live music is meant to be heard and even felt.  I have only worn earplugs to one show…Girl Talk, but we planned to be about two feet from the stage right by the speakers, dancing and feeling the beat.  Success.  One of my favorite nights at Track 29 dancing with my wife and all of our friends. 

Attendance alone proves that many people enjoy this venue.  Several of the events we have attended were sold out.  That is a huge win for Chattanooga.  The revenue stream doesn’t just end at Track 29.  This venue brings patrons to local restaurants, hotels, and bars.  The Southside is becoming a hot spot for new business and Track 29 has played a role in the development of this area.  

I would not consider myself an old man, but at 41 I enjoy a great live show and I will be attending many more events at Track 29 for years to come.  

Secondly, Milton (not Melvin) was allowed to listen to his radio at a reasonable level from 9 to 11.  Track 29 is at a perfect 10! 

Thanks, Track 29, for all the awesome memories so far. 

Matthias Anderson


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