We describe two simple straightforward syntheses of triazolo isoquinolines (3) and isochromenes (7) from 2-alkynylbenzaldehydes (1) as a common synthon. The synthetic strategy for 3 involves formation of the (E)-1-(2-nitrovinyl)-2-(alkynyl) benzene species 2 via condensation of synthon 1 with nitromethane followed by a [3+ 2] cycloaddition/extrusion of the nitro group/regioselective 6-endo cyclization domino sequence. In yet another strategy ...