The Joint

The Joint - breathlessly described by Rolling Stone magazine as "the rock and roll equivalent of the Grand Ole Opry" - has a warm cabaret feel, despite its cavernous interior. Sight lines are decent, unless you're stuck with standing-room-only balcony tickets; fail to arrive early and you'll be standing on your toes for two hours. Multiple television monitors mirror the stage at all times, a plus while you await service at one of three bars. The sound is crisp, clean and absolutely stunning. Shows here tend to cost, unless it's an all-ages gig; in that event, prices drop below $20, security is tripled, waitress service is suspended and you get what you pay for. A fabulous evening all told, even before you're released into the Hard Rock hotel-casino for an impromptu post-show blowout with the prettiest people you've ever laid eyes on. Tickets available at Hard Rock box office 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. daily, phone reservations 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

-- Staff report