Benefits of 21-and-over Concerts

There’s a big difference between a 21-and-over concert and an all ages one.  Granted, the serving of alcohol at adult shows is the crucial variation, as it alters the demographics of the audience.  Recently I went to my first 21-and-over show at the classy Douglas Fir Lounge in Portland to see Laura Marling and Patrick Watson.

Below, I’ve jotted down a couple of reasons why 21-and-over shows (or perhaps, just acoustic-folk concerts in Portland) are different than underage shows:

1. Adequate space to move: I’m not a fan of having some random guy’s pelvis against my jeans (see “Concert Etiquette”).  The good thing about this show was that I could comfortably turn in a circle without touching anyone else.  In addition, if there was a tall guy standing in front of me it was easy to move to a different location to get a better view of the stage.

2. Audience members less likely to have a MySpace account: There weren’t any black-haired emo kids slouching and making out with each other.  High schoolers sneaking in PBR and Bud Light were also missing.

3. Less body odor: The audience was comprised of many well-groomed men and women with black square-rimmed glasses, plaid shirts and pretty dresses.

4. Bar: If you’re not that interested in the opening act, you can get a drink, sit down and relax at a table, rather than hide in the middle of the crowd and try to drink your contraband liquor.

5. Sticky floors: The downside to being able to purchase drinks is that there are a lot of spills, leaving the floor very sticky.