Live Music Archive

Around the pubs and clubs in the United Kingdom there are still a lot of artists playing for only several pounds to demanding fanss who simultaneously request Chuck Berry and the Arctic Monkeys. Keeping all these diverse people in the fans happy is never simple, but not impossible either. With wonderful stage craft and clever of tunes at a particular Club, a wonderful performer could make everybody happy.
The organization of these artists is extraordinary. They must find like minded musicians that are committed. Then they must find somewhere to practice. This is not simple as most cannot do this at home. If you are fortunate to have a house big enough, it’s un like ly you could get round the neighbours, as it’s so loud! It cannot be turned down as everything must be as loud as the drums. A performer again and again hires a room to practice, at amazing cost to themselves.
A performer must furthermore spend literally thousands on equipment. PA, lighting, guitars, drums etc.
The next hurdle is transport. For some reason most drummers cannot drive! Cars are again and again inadequate as you would need a fleet of about 5 for your gig, truly expensive on the fuel, and impractical. Most artists have to hire or buy a van, again at amazing cost to themselves.
When they have finally rehearsed all there material over weeks or months, they’re ready to play live. It’s an inspiring day, one of wonder, excitement and slight fear. You turn up to the Club to find one man and his dog. And that man is truly drunk, wants to be your manager, and giving you all the value of his ‘wisdom’ in the music game! The landlord is furthermore 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 again and again out of pocket.
However the real rock heroes come back for more. They find the best Club s, capture a reputation, and play at some amazing places. Sure they still have bad gigs, but the wonderful ones make up for it. They make it look so simple, but it is not. One such performer 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 most dodgy Club s, and heckled to death. But they’re still here, bigger and better than ever having learnt from their early days.
So recall, when you see a local/regional performer advertised at a pub or club, go see them and aid 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.