The Downtown Shuttered

The Downtown rock club in Farmingdale, N.Y., where artists including Link Wray, The Psychedelic Furs, and Jimmy Cliff have showcased their talent, was abruptly shuttered September 19th despite a full schedule through December.

A September 20th show with Josh Kelly was moved to The Crazy Donkey, but all other concerts on the books have been canceled. No explanation was given for the closure.

“It’s a tough business,” former co-owner Dave Glicker told Newsday. “I know from operating for many years that insurance alone is almost cost-prohibitive — especially when you’re hosting very aggressive rock and roll shows.”

The former sports bar was reopened as the 450-capacity Downtown in 2001. The venue went on to be a regular stop for established touring acts as well as a milestone gig for up-and-coming hard rock and metal bands.

Ticket refunds are being given at the point of purchase.