i just read this entire thread and theres some good points and bad points. The whole scene seems to be filled with metal bands (just an observation) but this dont bug me any. they play what they enjoy. granted there is also a large number of balls bands, but there are also some killer ones. ones's which spring to mind, my minds weapon, we shall be blessed, karloff, amy sawers etc etc. and i do find there to be pressures of gigging (my band have just started and im already gettin pissed off) i will admit that what gigs my band have done, have indeed had alot of our mates there. but they come cause the do enjoy what we play and we do try to encourage them to stay for the other bands. but anyway who wouldnt want to play a show with their mates in the crowd. it helps ease things. . like havin people who you know wont come to the gig just to go "You're fucking shite!". . .i know hecklings all fine and well sometimes but to a nervous new band hearing that can be really demoralising(sp?). even though they should probs learn to like ignore it. i play music cause i love it. i dont care what anyone thinks. people can think im shite, let them, i like what i play. If some awesome record exec offerd us a deal, i for one would take it. paid to do what you love doing. . . isint that like anyones ideal job? or would that be considerd selling-out? on a final note, doing gigs IS indeed a good way to make a little cash. i mean like we're doing a gig in may and should be playing an hour set. we're gettin 100 quid for it. i mean like i know not many places would give you anywhere near that. but 100 for an hours work. . .when id probs normally be at home, still playing music and getting nowt. seems pretty good huh? just my opinion. . .