In a fast-evolving city like Atlanta, we feel embattled to protect our venerable institutions, which at some time or another have come under siege in the name of “progress.”
For example, even the Fox Theatre, an accepted cultural jewel, was once famously on the brink of facing the wrecking ball and, of course, there was the Clermont Lounge episode a few years ago. When the property, which houses a motel and one of the country’s best dive bars, was bought, rumors were rife of an imminent condominium redevelopment.
Just blocks away, The Masquerade has undergone similar scrutiny, fueled by the purchase of neighboring City Hall East, slated to become a mixed-use community. Should the music venue fall prey though, its loss will be particularly heartfelt.
However, many venues, like bars and restaurants, have closed down through the years; it’s an accepted commercial reality. Yet this one, for many, is much dearer than others, even iconic. So what makes Masquerade so special?
“Basically, in my opinion, it’s the best live venue in the city,” said Garry Hardwick, an English ex-pat who’s lived in Atlanta for more than 20 years. “Plain and simple."
“I saw bands from back home, like the Happy Mondays in 1991, the year after it opened, which was my first show here. I realized it was as good as anywhere back in Europe and I’ve been coming regularly ever since. It’s a great location too, close to Little Five, close to everything.”
That might explain its interest from developers, however, there’s something more unique about the Masquerade experience. On the site of a former mill, its odd shape, notably the high roof, delivers incredible acoustics that sweep the huge floor like a tidal wave of sound.
“When Nirvana played here, you were practically swept off your feet,” remembered Rick Lowry, another Masquerade stalwart. Nirvana is but one act it can enviably name drop. Morrissey, Nine Inch Nails, Oasis and even Heart are among the litany of others.
Bands aside, many enthuse about a certain staid charm, missing from more modern purpose-built venues. For example, take the main room band floor, put through its paces on one of the many club nights. Described as having a ‘wobble’ or ‘bounce,’ its reverberation is noticeably felt when pounded by hundreds of alcohol-fueled feet.
“The other thing I like about is that you can take a break at the other bars,” Lowry said, referring to the room at its entrance, separated from the stage and dance floor area.
Altogether, there are four bars, which are renowned for quick service even on busier nights. The three main levels are known as "Heaven," "Hell" and "Purgatory" which each deliver a distinct vibe, depending on the night. In most cases, the bands play in "Heaven" and the dancing or events take plce in "Hell" with the chill vibe going on in "Purgatory." The other option occurs on the amazing outdoor patio where you can get away for a moment before you head back in to your desired vibe. On top of all that, Masquerade also hosts the "Masquerade Music Park" which is an outdoor stage venue that hosts large, but intimate, outdoor concerts. Quite a complex. No wonder it has found a way to survive for so long. However, strange as it may seem, some come here for relaxation, particularly in warmer months, when one can drink outside.
Indeed, motorists on North Avenue are fully aware of when the Masquerade’s open for business; patrons constantly zip across the road to Kroger as a pre-show ritual or mill around the sidewalk.
“Yeah, there’s no way anyone can mess with this place,” said Hardwick. “There would be a riot if they tried – and I’d be the one to lead it.”
