It was to be a journey unlike any other, filled with guitar riffs unheard of. I embarked on this momentous journey when the weather had finally begun to quell the fiery heat of the southwestern sun. Many destinations lay ahead, this I was sure of this, yet, where to begin I had not a clue. I knew that this was to be the beginning of something fantastic, something full of energy. Several weeks before I had decided on my first subject to carry forth into the world of AZCulture.com, one event lay before my eyes and sunk far, far into the pleasure center of my brain.

Emperor X, Yellow Canary Dance Hall. My choice had been made. So as any eager music goer would, I began my research into the venue, as I had not yet attended any events at Yellow Canary and so I set fourth to gather as much information as I could regarding the whereabouts of the Dance Hall. What I’d found was much more than I’d ever expected.

Located in the quasi Industrial district of south phoenix near 24th st. and Southern Avenue I found a quant, comfy and eclectic venue. A true cave of treasure under the Phoenix sun, The Yellow Canary Dance Hall resides in a complex of storage units hidden away in alcove where many a talented musicians sneak away to their practice sheds hash up their many tunes.

The Yellow Canary Dance Hall is not a place you go to sip on pretentious beers you’ve never heard of or to go and listen to another remix of your favorite dub-step song. The Dance hall is a melting pot of Arizona Culture and literature. Immediately upon entry you will surely sink your eyes into the interesting art displayed on the walls and find yourself cozying up on a couch reading indipendantly printed and written zines.The overall feel of The Yellow Canary Dance Hall is somewhere between a show in your best friend’s basement and the depiction painted by Palaniuk of “Lou’s Tavern”, minus the grime and underground aspect. The feeling of camadery is very present due to size of the venue, as you find yourself surrounded by true fans of the music.

The venue holds a “No Drunks or Drinks” policy which although rare, I rather preffered over the typical hodge podge bar scene. In a city dominated by overpriced well drinks and eight dollar blue moons, I found The Yellow Canary Dance Hall to be a extraordinary gem amongst rather common stones. A place where one can truly enjoy the music and have the opportunity to meet the outstanding musicians.

The complex where the dance hall is located has been a hotspot for underground shows for over the past ten years, and this is something that one can almost feel in the air, the feeling that no matter the night or the tunes, something about being here just feels right.

As my introduction to AZCulture and the beginning of something great, I am proud and privelaged to introduce you to the fine establishment that is The Yellow Canary Dance Hall. Although they have hosted shows at this location for around three months, the Dance Hall certainly has plans for expansion and is openly accepting donations to improve the venue and purchase the equipment necessary to keep the good times rolling. With a lineup in the coming weeks chock full of travelers and locals, you are sure to enjoy a lovely slice of Underground Arizona music here. I look forward to attending many shows here and helping this venue grow, for the nostalgic feeling it instilled in me of my times at backyard shows and basement venues, was priceless. The unexpected surprise that we have such a hidden treasure smack dab in the middle of the valley is reassurance that although some would say the good times were all in the 80’s, is purely a misconception. If you ever catch me jammin’ out  down here, be sure to give me a shout out!