It's hard to believe that we've been dancing to these songs for over a decade. What started essentially as an experiment has blossomed into one of Buffalo's most popular independent events. I am, of course, talking about The Cure vs. The Smiths Dance Party.

In independent music, the Smiths and the Cure are omnipresent. Their popularity has never waned and they always seemed to just be "there." So is the case when you have two massively influential bands, with a library of unforgettable songs.

Over ten years ago, Bill Page and Jay Draper (who also host the Transmission Dance Party events), put their time and energy into an idea they weren't sure would work. A gamble which has paid off big time. Here we are over ten years later, the last dance party standing, and we're STILL talking about how much fun we had at the last one.

Tonight, we celebrate the legacy of two incredible bands, at Buffalo Iron Works (49 Illinois St), a great new venue in the Cobblestone District. The spacious bar is ideal for dancing, has a great soundsystem and there's plenty of parking. It's been awhile since the dance party has had a place to call home, ever since Mohawk Place closed, so hopefully this is the spot. No place I'd rather be on a Friday night in Buffalo. 10:30pm doors. $5. 21+.

The Smiths or The Cure, who do you prefer? I have a serious appreciation for both. But in my beloved collection of music The Smiths definitely outweighs The Cure, by a long-shot. "There Is A Light That Never Goes Out" will forever be my devoted romance anthem and "How Soon Is Now?" is one of those songs that is so good I can't quite focus on my surroundings because I'm that enraptured. And although both bands are known for their melancholic nature, there's just something about The Smiths for me. I digress, tonight your opinion is the one that matters.


Each year Transmission has held the event at Mohawk Place. With the closing of Mohawk, the 10th annual Smiths vs. Cure dance party will be held at Soundlab. Dress themed and spend a night in a time warp, dancing, and undoubtedly having the great debate: The Smiths or The Cure. 

Two bands enter. One band leaves. The fight for most melodramatic English group continues tonight as we celebrate the 7th?, 8th?, 9th? (help me out people) Smiths vs. Cure annual dance party at Mohawk Place (10pm). Two of indies most celebrated and cherished bands, the Smiths and the Cure obviously need no introduction. If you follow this blog, or underground music in general, their legends are cemented in stone, and half the bands you listen to probably list them as influences. You know em, you love em. Now dance your ass off.