Posts filed under 'Top 10 Posts'
Today, I am going to give you my top 10 favorite football stadiums. Some of these NFL venues are brand new, while others have stood the test of time. So, here they are and in no particular order.
1. Dallas Cowboys Stadium its true, everything is bigger in Texas. The brand new Dallas Cowboys Stadium opened in the spring of 2009. It features the world’s largest HD screen, which spans 160 feet in width and is 72 feet tall. I can easily say this stadium is heaven for football fanatics.
2. Lambeau Field this name is synonymous with the Green Bay Packers. The managment gives fans an amazing football experience with great atmosphere. Game day activities and concessions are actually very affordable, which makes it a great time for the family. Seating has been expanded to make fans more comfortable. Couples can even say their vows and get married at Lambeau Field!
3. Soldier Field happens to be a highly respected and historic NFL venue. The Chicago Bears have played in Soldier Field since 1971. Soldier Field is very special for football fans. The field is a memorial to every American soldier who died during combat. There are many statues and memorials placed around the beautiful stadium to respect the fallen soldiers.
4. Qwest Field is much more than just a football destination. It is a fully functional multi-purpose sports complex that is state-of-the-art. The Seattle Sounders MLS team also plays at Qwest Field. The field offers stunning views of the Seattle skyline and fresh air. It is a popular hang out for locals and tourists. Qwest field is also known for being one of the loudest NFL fields with the most rowdy and fun fans!
5. Dolphin Stadium made the list because this is where the Super Bowl XLIV will be held in 2010! The Orange Bowl is also traditionally held at Dolphin Stadium. Miami, Florida also happens to be a wonderful destination during the winter. The warm climate makes it a perfect place for football. The layout is breezy and comfortable. It’s a great place to enjoy an NFL game.
6. University of Phoenix Stadium is the home of the current NFC Champions, the Arizona Cardinals. This is another new stadium, which officially opened to the public in 2006. University of Phoenix Stadium also hosted the Super Bowl 2009 and an entire community was built to welcome NFL fans. This stadium has a retractable roof, which keeps spectators cool in the summer and comfortable during the winter.
7. Arrowhead Stadium is “The Red Sea”! Kansas City Chiefs fans are one of a kind and dress head to toe in red, to show support. Arrowhead Stadium is often feared by opposing teams, it’s an intimidating place to play. However, it’s a wonderful stadium to enjoy a game and to really get into the game day atmosphere. Like Qwest Field, Arowhead Stadium is also famous for its extremely audible fans.
8. Heinz Field this NFL venue is absolutely stunning. It is located along the Ohio River, with stunning views of Pittsburg. Heinz Field is one of the very few football fields with an all natural grass playing surface. This field also hosts a wide variety of other events including concerts, college football and other events. Heinz Field is a hot spot in Pittsburgh!
9. Metrodome has been opened since the early 80’s is one of the premier sports destinations. The Metrodome is home to the legendary Minnesota Vikings, Minnesota Twins and the Minnesota Golden Gophers. It has a rich history of some amazing games and is one of the oldest NFL stadiums. It has a very special charm, which fans adore.
10. Qualcomm Stadium is where you will find the San Diego Chargers. This modern stadium is surrounded by the beauty of Southern California and the beach is only a few miles away. How can you go wrong? “The Murph” aka Qualcomm Stadium is made of pure concrete and steel, construction was completed in the late 1960’s.
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October 21st, 2009
The NCAA gave licensing permissions for 34 college football bowl games for the upcoming 2009-2010 season. I am going to give you the rundown on my 10 favorite bowls (in no particular order). Including venue information, dates, and times.
1. Insight Bowl will be hosted in sunny Tempe, Arizona on December 31st 2009 at 4:00pm (MST). The game will be held at Sun Devil Stadium and it will be broadcast on the NFL Network. The Insight Bowl will feature a Big 12 versus a Big 10 team.
2. Rose Bowl The annual Rose Bowl will be celebrating its 96th game in Pasadena, California on January 1st 2010. Rose Bowl tickets are on sale now and the game will start at 2:10pm (PST), immediately following the parade at the legendary Rose Bowl Stadium. This game will feature 2 BSC teams, which will be announced at a later date
3. FedEx Orange Bowl just like the Super Bowl, the Orange Bowl will also be hosted in Miami, Florida. The game will commence on January 5th 2010 at 8:00pm. Fans will fill Land Shark Stadium for the 75th annual Orange Bowl.
4. Allstate Sugar Bowl the gorgeous city of New Orleans will be hosting the Allstate Sugar Bowl on January 1st 2010 at 8:00pm. Games, food, fun and celebrations will be going all night. The game is scheduled for the evening at the Louisiana Superdome. This will be a BSC game.
5. Fiesta Bowl this is going to be the 39th annual Fiesta Bowl. It will be held in Glendale, Arizona on January 4th at 6:00pm (MST) at the massive University of Phoenix Stadium.
6. BCS National Championship Pasadena, California at the Rose Bowl Stadium (not to be confused with the Rose Bowl) on January 7th 2010 at 8:00pm at the Rose Bowl. This game will pair up the #1 BCS team versus #2 BCS team
7. Chick-fil-A Bowl is planned to take place in Atlanta, Georgia on December 31st, 2009 at 7:30pm. The game will be at Georgia Dome; this New Years Eve game is always a treat. Featured will be a top ACC football team versus a competitive SEC team.
8. AT&T Cotton Bowl will be located in Arlington, Texas on Saturday, January 2nd 2010 at 2:00pm. Tickets are on sale now and it will be broadcast completely live from the brand-spanking NEW Cowboys Stadium. This new stadium is larger than life, with some serious new technology. A match up between a Big 12 team and an SEC is scheduled to take palace at the Cotton Bowl.
9. Capital One Bowl Florida will be popping with football action this season. The Capital One Bowl will be hosted in Orlando, Florida on January 1st 2010 at the Florida Citrus Bowl. SEC versus Big 10!
10. Texas Bowl is always a treat for college football fans and the trophy is definitely desired. The Texas bowl will be held in Houston, Texas at Reliant Stadium. The game is scheduled for December 31st 2009. The Texas bowl will feature a Big 12 team versus a C-USA team.
August 14th, 2009
From tiny dive bars to massive outdoor amphitheaters, there are hundreds of event venues in the states. I have scoured America to find you the crème de la crème. These are my favorite concert venues of all time. Venues with the best sound, lighting, music, history, vibe and so much more. Keep in mind, this list is in no particular order!
01. Cricket Wireless Pavilion Phoenix, Arizona the rumors are true, I am an Arizona Native. So, of course I have to stick my favorite Arizona concert venue in the mix. I have been to Cricket Wireless Pavilion a handful of times and always have a blast. However, the venue is best during spring and winter. Outdoor concerts in the middle of the Phoenix summer heat are scorching!
02. The Joint Las Vegas, Nevada hands down this is the most popular music venue in Vegas, The Joint has recently been renovated and updated. This concert venue located in the Hard Rock Hotel and is famous for the rock bands and super-starts it attracts. Classic rock-n-roll, Vegas-style…this is as good as it gets!
03. Hollywood Bowl Hollywood, California this beautiful outdoor amphitheater is beloved by Los Angeles residents. The Hollywood Bowl was opened to the public in the summer of 1922. This venue is full of unique features which set it apart from the competition. Looking at the stage, you will see a rounded shell like structure that covers the stage. This structure helps to keep the acoustics clear and loud during performances. Seating is situated in an area full of large trees and cool Cali breezes.
04. Madison Square Garden New York City, New York all recording artist know they have arrived at the top, when given the opportunity to perform at Madison Square Garden. This absolutely massive arena (also known as MSG), hosts over 320 events per year. That is almost an event every single day of the year!
05. Red Rocks Amphitheater Morrison, Colorado when it comes to Red Rock Amphitheater, you should definitely believe the hype! Red Rock is built in to the beautiful and preserved, Rocky Mountains. The natural surroundings create perfect acoustics, which draw concert goers from all over the globe.
06. The Fillmore San Francisco, California now, here is a venue with some history! Constructed in the late 60’s, the Fillmore helped to launch the psychedelic music movement. Featuring such far-out bands bands as: The Grateful Dead, Jimi Hendrix, Pink Floyd and so many more. The Fillmore is an iconic tradition in San Francisco.
07. Gorge Amphitheater George, Washington a ticket to a live performance at Gorge Amphitheater offers you so much more than just a live music. This Amphitheater is situated near the Columbia River Gorge and showcases breathtaking scenic views. Lawn seating is often preferred and some of the most talented performers of all time have graced the stage at Gorge Amphitheater.
08. Chastain Park Atlanta, Georgia Chastain has it all; Amazing music, plenty of seating, surrounded by lush vegetation with beautiful views. Chastain Park is a gigantic area, solely devoted to rest and relaxation in Atlanta, Georgia. You can reserve tables near the front of the stage. Patrons with reserved seating can bring coolers with food and beverages to enjoy during the event, how cool?!
09. Smalls New York City, New York When I hear jazz, I think Smalls! Located in the heart of the Big Apple, Smalls features established jazz musicians on almost every single day of the week. Although this is not one of the mega venues, this intimate jazz club is truly one of a kind. A treat for any music lover, check it out especially if you are in to jazz.
10. Great American Music Hall San Francisco, California this music hall is a slice of Americana, opened in 1907. The architecture is stunning, a mesh of a French-American design. This club has a rich-history, The Great American Music Hall has always been a jewel in the San Francisco music scene. Today, it has been beautifully restored for many more generations to enjoy.
July 15th, 2009
First, I would like introduce myself to the Ticket Insider readers. I have just teamed up with the Ticket Insider crew and this will be my first of many posts. I am ready to fill you guys in with the latest concert news, gossip and tips!
So, let’s get this party started! I know you have been patiently waiting weeks, probably months to see your favorite musicians perform live. These 10 tips will make your experience more enjoyable.
1. Pack Light – Leave the big bags at home and only bring along the necessities. Always carry your ID, some cash and cell phone. Lugging around a giant bag will really drag you down. Bring sunscreen if you are attending an outdoor concert.
2. Ear Plugs – Most bands and artist travel with massive sound systems. It’s always a good idea to protect yourself. Earplugs allow you to feel the music, without jeopardizing your hearing. You can pick up a pair up before the show at any drugstore.
3. Check Yourself – Having a couple drinks is a great way to enjoy the concert atmosphere. Getting completed trashed is definitely a bad idea. You probably paid a pretty penny to see Metallica, don’t you want to remember every second of it?
4. Stay Cool – Most concerts are large gatherings with hundreds, possibly even thousands of people. It’s easy to get dehydrated, especially during summer concerts and festivals. Water can be expensive, but worth every cent in the long run.
5. Sneakers – Leave the heels and pumps at home. Sandals are for the beach! You would be surprised how many times I have seen people walking around a concert with only one shoe. I always sport my Chucks, total comfort right there. Most concerts offer general admission, which means seating will be limited.
6. Are You Sure Or Unsure? – PLEASE wear deodorant! We all get a little sweaty dancing up a storm, but B.O can really spoil the fun for everyone. A nice shower before the event, goes a long way. Most concerts are packed and you will be sharing close quarters with the rest of the attendees.
7. The Posse – Sharing the excitement with a group of friends or a special someone can really heighten the concert experience. Singing along with your loved ones to live music is always memorable. So, grab your pals and head out! These memories last a life-time.
8. Mosh! - If you dare to enter the “mosh-pit”, help your fellow moshers up if they fall. There is nothing wrong with releasing a bit of aggression. Remember, it’s all about respect for the music!
9. Be Aware – Research camera rules, some venues don’t allow flash photography or professional cameras. Every venue is different and regulations will vary, depending on the management.
10. Rock Out! – This is definitely the numero uno rule for me. This is your chance to hear amazing music blasting through the speakers. Bring a smile and a good attitude, I guarantee you will have a good time. Being surrounded by fellow music lovers is fun!
Feel free to drop me some comments. Share your concert experiences. I want to hear your concert commandments!
May 15th, 2009
Hello everybody,
Now that Snow Patrol and the Bloc Party have come through town, there is not a whole heck of a lot coming up for shows. The Love Me Nots, a GREAT garage rock band here in town, will be playing at the Yucca Tap Room Friday, January 2. This is a great band; think of playing all those fabulous 60’s garage Nuggets compilations. Great guitar work, fabulous vocals and stunning organ play are at the forefront when you listen to them. I haven’t had the pleasure of seeing them yet, so I am really excited for this show.
Since there is not much else to report in ways of quality shows (no, Styx at the Fiesta Bowl Block Party does NOT count), let’s do our own little version of all those neat end-of-year lists from magazines like NME, Melody Maker, Rolling Stone. We will start with the best shows/concerts of 2008.
Most of the shows I list here will have individual posts about the experience. Check out our archives for a detailed review of the show you are interested in!
Ladies and gentleman, in order, courtesy of the Dust Devil:
1. Elbow at the Bluebird Theatre; Denver, CO; May 2. This is a no-brainer. Quite simply, to date this is the best concert I have EVER been to, and if you have not figured out by now I go to a lot of shows, then you have not been paying attention at all. I absolutely love this band and I am very happy others are beginning to see this as well. Elbow won this year’s Mercury Prize for Best Album with The Seldom Seen Kid. If you don’t have this amazing slab of vinyl yet, go get it. NOW. Guy Garvey’s vocals on Newborn that evening STILL bring tears to my eyes, it was that special.
2. Sharon Jones and the Dap Kings at Red Rocks Amphitheatre; Morrison, CO; September 14. Amazing, energetic show, the highlight of an unbelievable Monolith Festival weekend for me. Sharon Jones has a fabulous voice and is a terrific front-woman, while the Dap Kings play some inspired retro-soul. A must see if they are in your town.
3. Band of Horses at Red Rocks Amphitheatre; Morrison, CO; September 14. Band of Horses was the biggest sounding band at Monolith and the band that best utilized the magnificent acoustics at Red Rocks. Ben Bridwell has one of the best voices in rock and roll today and his bandmates played the best set in terms of professionalism during the weekend. The Funeral ranks a hair behind Newborn from Elbow for Best Moment of the Year During A Show.
4. Ghostland Observatory at the Fox Theatre; Boulder, CO; April 19. I had never been to a show where I think every living soul in the venue was on their feet dancing until I saw this duo on this evening. Holy cow; what power, what energy, what a show! There may only be two guys in this band, but there is nothing simple about the raw power Ghostland Observatory puts out live. They are good on disc, but this is a band you must see live to truly appreciate what they do.
5. Agent Orange at O’Malley’s; Tucson, AZ; November 28. I have lost count of how many times I have seen this band play since I was in junior high (and I’m 39 now), and this was easily the best show from this band I have seen in over TWENTY YEARS! In my humble (and correct) opinion, Agent Orange is the best punk rock band of all time and the fact they STILL shred is unbelievable. Sole remaining original member Mike Palm is one of my favorite guitarists and still has a great voice, and his latest line-up of Dusty Watson on drums/vocals and Perry Giordano on bass/vocals is the best since the glory days of the band with Scott and James cranking out the classic discs Living in Darkness, Bitchin’ Summer, When You Least Expect It and my personal fave, This is the Voice. Today the band plays their classic catalog even faster than before, which just amazes me considering they have been around for nearly thirty years. An amazing set, they even played the entire Darkness album with Bloodstains as always being the highlight of the set. Here’s to 30 more Mike!
6. Silversun Pickups at Red Rocks Amphitheatre; Morrison, CO; September 13. Third time I have seen this great Los Angeles band and another stellar set delivered. These guys have such a great stage presence and as good as they are on disc, their studio output does not come close to show-casing the power and beauty of this band. This was to be their last show before convening to the studio to finish up their long awaited follow-up to Carnavas. If the new material they played on this evening is any indication, the new disc is going to smoke!
7. Jukebox the Ghost at the Rhythm Room; Phoenix, AZ; October 15. What a fun, utterly impressive and professional set from this Washington, D.C band! Nice guys to top it off, this is a band that deserves your attention as they churn out pop melodies with an almost prog-rock type of underlying current, as several of the songs transition into one another, creating fascinating story-lines. They sound so good on stage, and Ben lays down some of the coolest sounding piano tinkerings I have heard in ages.
8. Mobius Band at the Larimer Lounge; Denver, CO; May 3. The only reason this show does not rank higher is the band only played six songs since they were the opener of a three band set. That’s crap, they deserve a full-length set to show their fans how good they are. Playing eclectic indie-pop music with an electronica influence, these guys really pour themselves into their live performances. They were outstanding on this evening, with every song sounding great and delivering a furious rendering of The Loving Sounds of Static. If you don’t already “own a little piece of Heaven“, buy the disc. You won’t be disappointed! By the way, drummer Noam Schatz has a solo project called 3rdness, check out his latest offering Red Chanterelles. Thanks again for getting me in the show Noam!
9. Ra Ra Riot at the Modified; Phoenix, AZ; April 6. I have seen these guys three times now and they simply get better with age. Ra Ra Riot, deservedly so, became critical darlings this year with the release of The Rhumb Line. This particular night they were so tight, so focused and played with such enthusiasm, I was upset they played on a Sunday when they were doomed to get a small crowd in attendance. This is a band that could, and should, become huge.
10. The Pomegranates at Red Rocks Amphitheatre on the WOXY.com Stage; Morrison, CO; September 13. These guys played early Sunday at Monolith, delivering a set with some serious Sonic Youth and shoegazer influences. However, they did a great job of keeping the pop sensibilities at the forefront. Talented guys, this band should make some serious noise in coming years.
Folks, that is the Dust Devil 2008 Year in Review for Shows. I would love to hear some comments about why you think I’m wrong, or better yet, post your picks!
Cheers,
The Dust Devil
December 22nd, 2008
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