Is the Crystal Ballroom a harsh venue? I've never been there.
Its an old dance hall that's been converted into a venue. The views from everywhere on the floor are awful, the floor itself is usually split down this odd angle for 21 and over, the sound is mediocre, and the crowds that go to shows there are usually only half interested in whats going on onstage. If you are early enough you can stand on a bench at the wall of the venue and you might be able to see something

It would be perfect for an actual ball (with its bouncy floor), but for music it is probably my least liked venue in town.
Although I did see the Melvins there once (20th anniv, with Mudhoney opening). It was a good show, but I'd rather see them play just about anywhere else.
They probably got a pretty good offer from Sabertooth, so good on them.