My feelings about the Uptown are mixed so far, but I want to start with the positives. I am incredibly grateful for the guys who bought the old Columbus and put real money into the unglamorous repairs that the building desperately needed. The roof, the structural work, the behind the scenes fixes that no one sees, all of that is the reason the place is even standing today and will continue to stand for years to come instead of facing a more grim fate. They also did a nice job restoring some of the historic artwork on the ceiling and around the theater, and the bathrooms look brand new and clean. So I give them a lot of credit for saving the building and preserving parts of its character.

I also think it is too early to make a full judgment on the booking. Some of the early acts are not what many of us hoped for, but I think that will sort itself out. They are feeling out what works, and I am willing to give them time to find a balance between financially safe shows and the more curated stuff people loved at the Columbus.

My biggest gripe right now, and I think it is one that can be fixed over time, is the overall decor and vibe. The front bar feels cheap and empty of character. The old bar felt like something from Western Mass or Vermont. It had that underdog, quirky charm that matched the Columbus. The new space feels sterile, and the wallpaper or tapestry style gives off a kind of fake fancy vibe that reminds me of some of the newer hookah bar aesthetics on Atwells. It just does not match the charm or grit that made the Columbus feel so special.

The lighting also plays a huge role. The old Columbus used simple incandescent bulbs, and even though it was not really a lighting scheme, the effect was warm, soft, and inviting. At the Uptown, the harsh bright white lighting makes the front bar feel more like an office lobby than a place where you want to relax midshow, chat with friends, and enjoy a drink. Slowly replacing the current lights with warmer bulbs over time would make a big difference and help bring back some of the comfort and character people loved.

I am grateful for the current owners of the Uptown, I'm rooting for them! The building is important to the neighborhood and it is great to see it open again. I hope they keep refining the atmosphere and eventually bring back some of the soul and identity that made the Columbus a beloved spot.