Performance Pet Peeves
From a DC area music critic (who's really funny to read), a list of things not to do. A quick sample:
- Audible and Excessive Tuning. Ya know, a good "License to Play a Show" would be to check to see if every stringed instrument player in the band has a tuner. You don't see national acts "Play the Tuning Song." [This is particularly funny to me because I think I sat in with the very band being discussed here]
- Asking me to "wave my hands in the air" or to wave them as if I "just don't care". Well, I don't care, but I will not wave my hands in the air. Forget audience participation, or at least be creative.
- Asking the audience to come forward more than once. Shy audiences do need some coaxing, but you only get one shot at asking. After that, it's just pathetic.
- Noodling between songs. Show off your skills during the songs or be quiet.
- "How's everything sound out there?" Chances are, the soundguy is doing either his best, or is doing the most he is going to do. Just play, dammit!
- Lead singers using a boom stand while not playing an instrument. God DAMN is this annoying. It just looks so bad. ...
- Not talking clearly into the mic. Virtually every local band says the following in between songs: "Mumphuhmphumuhmumph". Speak clearly and don't talk so fast. No one can understand you!
- Finally: Playing Sweet Home Alabama! Please, for the love of all that is holy let this fucking song go!
On that last one? Amen, brother, whoever you are.
-- Update --
Now with correct links!
Posted by Casper at September 21, 2004 10:58 PM
