LiveMusicBlog

Around the pubs and clubs in the UK there are still many bands playing for only several pounds to demanding fanss who simultaneously request Chuck Berry and the Arctic Monkeys. Keeping all these diverse individuals in the fans happy is never simple, but not impossible either. With nice stage craft and clever of tunes at a specific Venue, a nice band may make anyone happy.
The organization of these bands is extraordinary. They must find like minded artists that are committed. Then they must find somewhere to practice. This is not simple as the majority cannot do this at home. If you are fortunate to have a house ample enough, it is un like ly you may get round the neighbours, as it is so loud! It cannot be turned down as everything must be as loud as the drums. A band a number of times hires a room to practice, at excellent cost to themselves.
A band must also spend literally thousands on equipment. PA, lighting, guitars, drums etc.
The next hurdle is transport. For some reason the majority drummers cannot drive! Cars are a number of times inadequate as you would need a fleet of about 5 for your gig, decidedly expensive on the fuel, and impractical. Most bands have to hire or buy a van, again at excellent cost to themselves.
When they have finally rehearsed all there material over weeks or months, they are ready to performance live. It’s an rousing day, one of wonder, excitement and slight fear. You turn up to the Venue to find one man and his dog. And that man is decidedly drunk, wants to be your manager, and giving you all the value of his ‘wisdom’ in the music game! The landlord is also drunk, and you cannot work out if he likes you or not.
You get poorly paid, if you get paid at all, and return home a number of times out of pocket.
Still the real rock heroes come back for more. They find the perfect Venue s, capture a reputation, and performance at some excellent places. Sure they still have bad gigs, but the nice ones make up for it. They make it look so simple, but it is not. One such band may be seen at http://www.thehalfmonty.tk
The Half Monty have had there share of ups and downs. They have been ripped of at gigs, played in the the majority dodgy Venue s, and heckled to death. But they are still here, bigger and better than ever having learnt from their early days.
So remember, when you see a local/regional band advertised at a pub or club, go see them and guide them. It is not simple for the lads and lasses. Perhaps buy them a beer following the performance if you really enjoyed it. , for these are the true heroes of rock.