Part 3: Metal Insider stand with Saint Vitus:

Members of Metal Insider have fondly shared their memories and thoughts about the beloved Saint Vitus Bar over the years. From unforgettable shows featuring bands like Anthrax, Megadeth, Dragonforce, Marty Friedman, and Gojira to intimate gatherings, at least one of us has experienced all of these events and overall metal magic this venue has offered firsthand. Saint Vitus Bar has transcended its role as a mere music venue, becoming a cherished home away from home and a quintessential metal mecca. Known for its commitment to showcasing a diverse range of acts and supporting the local scene, it quickly became a beloved fixture in the metal community.

The venue’s appeal extended beyond its music, offering reasonably priced drinks and a well-spaced layout that made patrons feel comfortable and welcomed. While some photographers were “permitted” to use flash, others opted for the natural approach, resulting in various images capturing the venue’s intimate atmosphere and the vibrant New York metal scene. In an era where iconic venues like CBGBs and Roseland Ballroom have been lost to time, Saint Vitus Bar stood as a resilient beacon in a city constantly undergoing change.

The abrupt interruption of Friday evening’s show by the Department of Buildings raises questions about potential malicious intent. 

For many, the venue’s mysterious black doors opened up a world of possibilities. Given chance encounters with friends and meeting new fellow metal comrades were commonplace with metal as the blissful backdrop. Beyond its regular shows, Saint Vitus Bar hosted a myriad of unique events, from metal matinees to Speed Metal Dating and Black Metal Yoga, reflecting its eclectic spirit and willingness to push boundaries.

Saint Vitus Bar’s impact extended far beyond its walls, providing opportunities for emerging and underground bands to headline shows and even serving for unconventional experiences like elegant and romantic engagement photoshoots. The venue’s influence was felt in its support for underground shows and propelling bands to greater success, as evidenced by headlining tours for acts like Oceans of Slumber, Lucifer, Royal Thunder, and 1349. Unique festivals and events further cemented Saint Vitus Bar’s status as a hub of creativity and community within the metal scene.

DJ Alex Kayne, a member of Metal Insider, has personally experienced the venue’s magic, reflecting on his time working there: 

“I have worked at Saint Vitus for many years as a resident Metal DJ, having the distinct privilege of opening for Anvil, Exciter, Megadeth, Sanctuary, Exhorder, Satan, and dozens more at the venue. I have also attended many shows there, and had a few bands booked by the venue. I love this space! The staff and owners are wonderful people, and they are successfully carrying the Metal torch forward. It is a legit Metal venue and beyond – they always stay ahead of the curve – often booking the upcoming bands of our future, and throwing Darkwave/Synthwave bashes that are wildly popular. This is a minor setback as Saint Vitus has been a neighborhood staple and will return. I know this because I know how dedicated and serious the owners and staff are about bringing unforgettable music experiences to their ticketholders. I look forward to working there again soon. ~ DJ Alex Kayne”

As Saint Vitus Bar navigates its legal challenges and works towards the possibility of reopening its doors or relocating entirely, it’s clear that its legacy and memory remain. Metal Insider stands behind Saint Vitus Bar and here to do what we can to support.

 

Photos snapped at Saint Vitus throughout the years:

DJ Alex Kayne:

 

 

 

Mark “Smitty” Neal:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tom Mis:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Melinda Oswandel:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mathieu Bredeau:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by ST-Math!eu – Mathieu Bredeau (@st_math)

 

Zenae D. Zukowski: