I can't say I've ever darkened the doors of the Ukrainian National Home (when I'm a-hankering for this sorta cuisine, you're more likely to find me at Veselka just up the block or at Primorski out in Brighton Beach), but I've always been fascinated with the place. I appreciate that it has largely eschewed the siren's call to move with the times and has stayed true to its old school roots. Where Kim Davis is romanced by the jellied pigs' feet, I'm more moved by the fact that some of my favorite bands once surreally played in its adjoining community hall (which also plays host, as Davis mentions, to tango lessons, weddings and beyond). Luminaries like The Misfits, The Necros and even Elvis Costello graced that big room back in the day.
In November of 1981, a still fledgling New Order played the Ukrainian National Home. Photographer Eugene Merinov was there. The gig itself was also filmed, spawning clips like the one below of the band chugging through "Dreams Never End" (with Peter Hook on vocals). You can practically smell the jellied pigs' feet from just across the hall. Enjoy.
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