Alrosa Villa   

For 30 years, Columbus' haven for metalheads has enjoyed a reputation for drawing top-notch metal acts and well-behaved crowds. But on Dec. 8, 2004, the venue made national headlines after a gunman rushed the stage during a Damageplan performance. He shot and killed four people, including the band's guitarist, "Dimebag" Abbott. Presumably, the ARV crew will continue to bang their collective heads to make great rock is available in a local, affordable setting. With a capacity of 800, a dedicated sound man and a light guy who has been there more than a dozen years, it's no wonder Alrosa can draw big names on their way up or down the musical ladder. National acts (Quiet Riot, Jackyl, David Lee Roth, MTV2's Head bangers Ball Tour) are thrilled to play here because it is always jam-packed with a rowdy, bleary-eyed and black-shirted, head-banging crowd. Some events are open to all age groups, and tickets are sold in advance. But always check the shows rating before you go; they also host events like Pornfest (a show and sale of x-rated items) that are not appropriate for everyone.