What was it like at City Gardens in Trenton NJ?




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Craig Wedren, vocalist for Shudder to Think, talks about City Gardens and the sound of Dischord Records during the 90s "Alternative" explosion... Hardcore roadie and Black Train Jack vocalist Rob Vitale discusses the life of a hardcore band roadie and the experience of witnessing City Gardens from both sides: as a performer and a fan. There is nothing like hearing about the "glamorous" side of rock and roll from the guys who keep the peace and see it all: the bouncers. City Gardens stage manager/bouncer extraordinaire "Gentleman" Jim Norton talks about life of a Punk Rock security manager in the scene's toughest club: City Gardens. Legendary Black Flag/Circle Jerks leader Keith Morris reflects on the insanity of a City Gardens tradition: "The Wall of Death."	To give you some history about the club, it was located in Trenton, NJ and was a music mecca for a little over 14 years. The Daily Show’s Jon Stewart was one of the bartenders, employee James Murphy went on to become LCD Soundsystem and the Beastie Boys talk about playing CG’s in the liner notes of their greatest hits CD. An excerpt from the book has been posted on the literary website The Rumpus (home to authors such as Rick Moody and Dave Eggers). Want more? Read about the last time the Butthole Surfers played. You'll get the idea. In 1990 Straight Edge juggernaut Judge filmed a video for the song "Where it Went" at the legendary City Gardens. Drummer Sam Siegler remembers the show. Marc Wasserman, bassist for New Jersey's first Ska band Bigger Thomas, discusses the rich history of the Ska and Reggae movement at City Gardens. Members of legendary Hardcore bands Killing Time and Vision discuss the insanity of 80’s hardcore shows and Randy Now's infamous "stagediving surcharge" policy.	Join our Facebook fan page! Follow us on Twitter!