Review of Sound Check Experience - Frustrating!
by Anonymous on 4/21/25The Stone Pony - Asbury ParkRating: 1 out of 5I attended a recent concert at the Stone Pony with Sound Check tickets, and unfortunately, the experience left a lot to be desired—particularly regarding organization and communication.
We were told to arrive for Sound Check check-in between 5:30 and 6:00 PM, which made it sound like we’d be going inside relatively quickly for the event. Instead, we were met with a massive, unorganized line where both General Admission and Sound Check ticket holders were mixed together, with no clear signage or staff guidance. It was extremely confusing, and everyone around us was just as unsure and frustrated.
To make matters worse, it was absolutely freezing and raining. Everyone, including Sound Check ticket holders who thought we’d be getting in early, was stuck outside until 7:00 PM—well past the stated check-in time. I was trembling from the cold and genuinely felt unwell. Had we been given accurate information, I could have at least dressed appropriately or brought more layers, but I never expected to be stuck in such conditions for that long.
Once inside, we finally got to do Sound Check (which itself was cool), but then had to wait an hour and a half for the opener, and even longer after that before Dean Lewis took the stage. Considering it's a standing-room-only venue, the amount of time on our feet—after already standing outside in the freezing rain—was excessive and honestly pretty exhausting.
Overall, the night felt disorganized and inconsiderate to paying fans, especially those who spent extra for a premium experience. The lack of communication, proper signage, and weather accommodations made what should’ve been an exciting event feel stressful and physically uncomfortable. I hope the venue seriously reconsiders how they manage Sound Check and premium ticket holders going forward. The concert itself/the performers were fantastic!