So, a while back, when Union Transfer was an impending new venue,

I speculated on the effect this large club would have on similar-sized venues like the TLA, Trocadero, and the Electric Factory.  I've just spent this morning reviewing the late-winter schedules for these clubs, and my verdict is: while the Trocadero and the Electric Factory have no real noticeable depreciation in the quality and number of their shows, the TLA is another story.  It's like they've responded to Union Transfer's booking ability by turning their focus almost entirely to the hardcore and tween market.  In all of February and March, there are only one or two shows that are worth publicizing on this blog.  That's pretty sad.  I remember walking past the marquis on South Street, 10 years ago, and noting that every night featured a different major indie rock band.

Maybe it's not sad - maybe it's just their way of surviving this overload in music venues.  But I hope the TLA doesn't entirely lose the flavor of the shows that made them a strong presence in the area for decades.