The Tri-cities may seem boring to some, but for others, it’s awesome.

With super fun shows at Rays Golden Lion and the Uptown Theater, or the Emerald of Siam, all in the Uptown in Richland. There have been local shows in Uptown, especially the Uptown Theater, but Ray’s Golden Lion was missing that spotlight for a long time. Closed down in 2015 over lease disputes, it spent 8 years shut down and practically abandoned until it was purchased in 2023 and reopened for the city to enjoy. When they opened up, tons of shows were being held, all of which were only 21+ shows, which upset many younger people. Many pleaded with Rays Golden Lion to host an all-ages show, and after a couple of months of persuading, on 1/27/24, Rays Golden Lion would host an all-ages show. This would also be the “EVA” debut show, a new upcoming ”nu-metal and alt-metal” band from the Tri-Cities. This show would prove to be a hit with a packed venue that I got to attend. Following this successful debut, Rays Golden Lion would begin to host more and more all-ages shows ranging from goth nights, Indie music, hip hop, punk rock, and even hardcore shows for all ages.

(Upcoming show, hardcore show at Rays. 5/23.)

Nothing beats the hardcore shows at Rays Golden Lion because the crowd never disappoints, and I just haven’t gone to any at the Uptown Theater or The Emerald of Siam LOL! What makes them my favorite? As I mentioned, the crowd never EVER disappoints; every show is jam-packed with crazy energy, and there is a crowd who are just as stoked about the music as you are. If you’re looking to get into the scene, don’t be afraid! The scene is very welcoming and a judgment-free zone. Take a friend or go alone, whatever you choose, I promise you won’t come out disappointed.

So what exactly goes on at these shows? Well, you pay for your entry. I’ve never spent more than $20 or even $15. If you’re there before the first set even plays, you can find a table to play pool or chill outside the venue, then once the first set begins to start, their mic tests are usually when people start forming around the stage to get good views and those who want nothing to do with the mosh pits typically stay in the far back. These bands will then play their music, and, in between bands, you get a break to go outside while the following bands set up their instruments and get ready.

(Blood of Saint Angeles performing their first local show on 5/17)

The Tri-Cities metal/rock scene is thriving with even young bands in the mix like “Deluxe Marble Race” and “Blood of Saint Angeles,” and newer ones that are still awaiting a debut like the upcoming slam band “Gore Gash.” Interestingly, some of our PHS students have played shows at Rays Golden Lion, like Nathan Turner, who plays Bass in a heavy metal band called “Metal Wolf.” But I won’t go too much into detail because that’s for a special project.  Truly, the Hardcore scene at Rays Golden Lion and Richland in general is just an explosion of energy and pure fun. The music is loud, the pits are insane, and the vibe is always unmatched. If you ever feel hesitant to jump in, know that each kick to the gut and punch to the face is purely for the love of the game. A famous line that many Hardcore bands love to spit is “Got beef? Leave it in the pit.” Just let go of the nerves and be ready to be a part of something awesome.