Is the bar scene turning the audiences away?

I hear alot of local bands complain about low attendence at their shows in the local area, and the ones that say they have huge, big, crowds with hundreds of people are just straight up lying about that, trust my research on this one.
Unless they have lucked out and got a gig at the chili cookoff or something like that, the bar scene crowds are just going to the toilet.

My thought is to not complain about it, but, to change the audience addendences for local bands, but, to do that we have to find out what the root of the problem is,

I would be interested in knowing what other types of venues, that are not bars/nightclubs, might attract the most audiences. Would bands get more audience attendence if they were not in a bar/nightclub atmosphere?

I have attended several outdoor / lawn concerts in the area, most sponsored by local town governments, and I have to admit that these "Outdoor Concert Series" programs are the biggest hit in town. Even venues that are outdoors like Gilligans Pier for instance, that place is packed even when the band sucks, repeatedly!

I have yet to see one of these outdoor programs that did not bring in audiences of 200 or more, so, maybe there is something to this idea. When was the last time your band brought in a crowd of 200+?

This is a serious question, and to you jokers/ego maniacs out there who want to reply and tell some bold faced lie that your band draws 200+ at most shows... Please find something else to do besides respond to this posting.

Basically, there's an epidemic going around in the local club scene, and we need to find an alternative medicine for the cure.

Problem one is that bands have poor attendence and rather put thought ahead to figure out what the problem is, they find it easier to just make up and excuse, you know, like the famous one around here, "There was big concert at Nissan", or MCI, or something really lame like that, or "It was too hot and most people stayed home", boy, I've heard those before a few times.

Problem two is "PROMOTION", too many bands already assume that everyone knows who they are, well that's a crap pile, so maybe the problem is just simple good ol' adverstising, most bands lack that these days, maybe it's just the bands fault, in most cases it is, but, that still does not rule out the "atmosphere" part of this post.

Problem three is"AGE" the ages that want to see bands are too young to get inot the bars, and the other ones are too old for the atmostphere but not the music. Think about these for a bit. The working classes, let's say, 25 to 45, are working people and just at the age where the bar scene is just not their thing anymore.

I hear alot under 21 audiences looking for more places to see bands perform, and alot of older crowds doing the same thing, they both love to see live bands play their music, but, THEY CAN'T GET IN THE VENUE! or...
Too old for the smoke and grime.

Maybe more coffee house, outdoor/lawn concert, commmunity center, performances? What do you think? where would you be willing to see more performances by local bands?

Where do you live?

I live in Southern Maryland, work in Southern Maryland, and I don't quite understand what your reply has to do with what I posted. somdmusician

I hear Leonardtown has a shortage on Street-Musicians?

I live in Southern Maryland, work in Southern Maryland, and I don't quite understand what your reply has to do with what I posted. somdmusician

You are a newbie and your profile doesn't indicate where you are located.

No dear, I have been using these forums for several years, I just have not had a whole lot of use for them, since they don't provide alot of feedback, but, I do make an effort to say what I have too, Hardly a newbie, just do alot of watching and listening.

Member Since: 08-13-2005

So you are an MPD.

I do post under several names though, so, don't let this name fool you. I have accounts for all my business ventures, including my band. SoMdMusician
(http://musicpage.de/smmo)

Yeah, It's a terrible thing, but, It all depends on what my point of post is at the time, could be business, or it could be for the band.

No dear, I have been using these forums for several years, I just have not had a whole lot of use for them, since they don't provide alot of feedback, but, I do make an effort to say what I have too, Hardly a newbie, just do alot of watching and listening.Or is it that you just don't like the feedback that you recieve?

I, personally, don't go to many live music venues because I'm 41 years old and not interested in a bunch of 20-somethings and their drama and fights, not to mention their drugs. I tend to like restaurants that have live entertainment rather than a club because the crowd is older.

Or is it that you just don't like the feedback that you recieve?It's that he's only interested in one thing, and hardly anyone else on here is.

I, personally, don't go to many live music venues because I'm 41 years old and not interested in a bunch of 20-somethings and .... :wowyoureold: :yikes:

:wowyoureold:
:lookswhostalking: :razz:

You probably don't get much "feedback" because you are not hitting your target market. SOMD is jam packed full of mid-lifers..... Wrong group, considering what ya do.

I, personally, don't go to many live music venues because I'm 41 years old and not interested in a bunch of 20-somethings and their drama and fights, not to mention their drugs. I tend to like restaurants that have live entertainment rather than a club because the crowd is older.
I'll have to agree with Vrai ~ the pain is not worth the pleasure in most cases for live music outings... though I LOVE live music... I think, however, it depends on the venue. Blues and jazz are a pleasant bet as they don't usually draw a particularly "let's get drunk and rowdy" crowd. I do like outdoor environments as well as restaurant/pub/dinner clubs ~ I hear the Birchmere is a great place to go, though I haven't been... The River Concert Series seems to be a winner as well, mostly for the environment, but the culture as well...

I'm 41 years old
:yikes:

You don't look a day over 26

No, see that's the problem, what I do is make the effort to be "diverse" in getting feedback from multi age ranges. The part you're not getting is that I am doing what I am supposed to be doing, and as for hitting my "market" audience, I must have just done that or you would not have replied, so, I thank you for your feedback.

I am really curious to know, from everyone, why do you not go to a bar or night club to see live bands perform? What is the exact turn-off for you in your decision to not go see a live band in a local Southern Maryland bar?

I am really curious to know, from everyone, why do you not go to a bar or night club to see live bands perform? What is the exact turn-off for you in your decision to not go see a live band in a local Southern Maryland bar?
Maybe it has nothing to do with the "bar scene". Maybe the particular bands in question just suck :shrug:

Ok, here's another question.

If there was a new local band that played only original music, and they decided to have free concerts to promote their material in a non-bar atmosphere around the Southern Maryland area, would you be more inclined to go see them, if you knew it was within the genre of your type of music, what made you decide to go see that band perform?

Thankyou!!!!!!!!!!!
That's what I have been waiting to hear. Would you be willing to say that if you have heard one band in Southern Maryland, you have basically heard them all?

I hope the music you are making isn't as annoying as this thread. :biggrin:

Maybe it has nothing to do with the "bar scene". Maybe the particular bands in question just suck There's that part of it, too. Like VV said, blues and jazz are good bets because of the crowd that type of music attracts. Classic rock is a good pick, as is rockabilly Bill Kirchen type music. :billkirchenisgod:

But the kids like what they consider dance music and they like whatever's Top 40 at the moment. I hate that crap. So Music Dude is probably really addressing his question to the younger folks on this forum.

I hope the music you are making isn't as annoying as this thread. :biggrin:And I hope you will not make a pitch for Glenn Miller and Tommy Dorsey :razz:

And I hope you will not make a pitch for Glenn Miller and Tommy Dorsey :razz:
And what is wrong with Swing and Big Band, lil' missy?

they decided to have free concerts to promote their material in a non-bar atmosphere around the Southern Maryland area,I like a bar and I like food. Outdoor concerts are okay except typically you can't drink and they almost always frown on smoking.

Plus the music should be a backdrop to the socializing. If you're Van Halen, okay - people will pay rapt attention to the music. But if you're a local band, you're the background. So don't crank it up or you'll just piss us off and we'll leave because we can't have a conversation while you're making a racket.

I hope the music you are making isn't as annoying as this thread. :biggrin:

I assure you, this has nothing to do with the music my band makes, but, that has nothing to do with what I am doing right now, so, please don't lead into something else that is not the current topic. The music my band makes is a whole different subject, though it is originals, our music is maintained to a standard so we can satisfy both younger and older crowds.

What I am simply trying to do is find out where the over all audience decline is coming from. You know, I've been in this business for 25 years and I have a seen a sharp decline in audience s in the past 10 years. My goal is try and figure out why, is it the bands themselves, or is it the "atmosphere", just looking for all the opinions I can get, maybe draw a conclusion someday. I would hope that I am dealing with intelligent, mature replies, it's not a question for smart remarks.

I am simply doing some research to satisfy my own curiosity and, well... what a better place to start that a local forum, with locals, who are obviously interested in the local scene, why else would you be here?

I like a bar and I like food. Outdoor concerts are okay except typically you can't drink and they almost always frown on smoking.

Plus the music should be a backdrop to the socializing. If you're Van Halen, okay - people will pay rapt attention to the music. But if you're a local band, you're the background. So don't crank it up or you'll just piss us off and we'll leave because we can't have a conversation while you're making a racket.

I appreciate your honest opinions. This is the very type of feedback I am looking for.

Let's say, if I were in a band and my audience attendences were poor, I'd surely want to know what I could do to better the numbers at the next gig. Well, part of the goal of SMMO is to do just that, make the scene more enjoyable for the audiences and provide something the audiences want, plus increase the bands audience by doing research. Most bands assume the audiences were doing something on a much bigger scale, but, honestly, I think there is much more to the problem that just that.

I appreciate everyones input, I gotta run, but, I will be available on Yahoo and AOL: wwwsmmonet, for further contact.

Please be sure to visit "OUR" site sometime and have a look around, there's plenty of message boards and such to keep you busy, and we're always looking for audience feedback regarding the music scene here in SoMd.

FYI, the mouse trailing text on your webpage is annoying...

I assure you, this has nothing to do with the music my band makes, but, that has nothing to do with what I am doing right now, so, please don't lead into something else that is not the current topic. The music my band makes is a whole different subject, though it is originals, our music is maintained to a standard so we can satisfy both younger and older crowds.

What I am simply trying to do is find out where the over all audience decline is coming from. You know, I've been in this business for 25 years and I have a seen a sharp decline in audience s in the past 10 years. My goal is try and figure out why, is it the bands themselves, or is it the "atmosphere", just looking for all the opinions I can get, maybe draw a conclusion someday. I would hope that I am dealing with intelligent, mature replies, it's not a question for smart remarks.

I am simply doing some research to satisfy my own curiosity and, well... what a better place to start that a local forum, with locals, who are obviously interested in the local scene, why else would you be here?
Well it's pretty fricking simple where the decline has come from, and I have never been "in the business". One would think that someone with your vast experience would know the answers already. But here’s my take.

First, I would say that the aggressive enforcement of drinking and driving violations has kept many from going out much. Along with the BS from unruly intoxicated customers that think of nothing but their enjoyment even if it detracts from that of the others.

Second, the younger clientele of music today likes loud noise and indecipherable lyrics. The stuff that causes nose-bleeds and headaches that many newer groups go for. This segregates the populace and makes many not want to be around it. As touched on by vraiblonde many folk go out to socialize more then to be a groupie for an obnoxiously loud band.

Third, the locations themselves in this area do not lend well for drawing a large crowd. A band and 30 or 40 people and the places are packed. It used to be that dances were dances held in halls and bars were bars. You want to draw a crowd, rent a hall that can handle it and do a BYOB type of event or a catered bar.

Finally, as to some of your remarks, as this is an open forum I will respond as I see fit and will not coddle to your expectations. Maybe since you didn’t realize the reasons for down fall you might want to venture into something else.

I do post under several names though, so, don't let this name fool you. I have accounts for all my business ventures, including my band. SoMdMusicianSoMdMusician is a pretty queer name for a band. Maybe that is why no one shows up?

I, personally, don't go to many live music venues because I'm 41 years old and not interested in a bunch of 20-somethings and their drama and fights, not to mention their drugs. I tend to like restaurants that have live entertainment rather than a club because the crowd is older.


:yeahthat: :yeahthat: :yeahthat: :cheers:

The music my band makes is a whole different subject, though it is originals, our music is maintained to a standard so we can satisfy both younger and older crowds.There you go. LCD music just pisses off everyone.

SoMdMusician is a pretty queer name for a band. Maybe that is why no one shows up?

SoMdMusician is not the name of my band, that's my screenname knothead.

Well it's pretty fricking simple where the decline has come from, and I have never been "in the business". One would think that someone with your vast experience would know the answers already. But here’s my take.

First, I would say that the aggressive enforcement of drinking and driving violations has kept many from going out much. Along with the BS from unruly intoxicated customers that think of nothing but their enjoyment even if it detracts from that of the others.

Second, the younger clientele of music today likes loud noise and indecipherable lyrics. The stuff that causes nose-bleeds and headaches that many newer groups go for. This segregates the populace and makes many not want to be around it. As touched on by vraiblonde many folk go out to socialize more then to be a groupie for an obnoxiously loud band.

Third, the locations themselves in this area do not lend well for drawing a large crowd. A band and 30 or 40 people and the places are packed. It used to be that dances were dances held in halls and bars were bars. You want to draw a crowd, rent a hall that can handle it and do a BYOB type of event or a catered bar.

Finally, as to some of your remarks, as this is an open forum I will respond as I see fit and will not coddle to your expectations. Maybe since you didn’t realize the reasons for down fall you might want to venture into something else.


I certainly agree with alot of what you say. As for the "venturing into something else" part, I pretty much know the answers to my questions, but, I am not one to say I am correct on all counts, I make an effort to validate my theories, therefore, I post, and you reply, your replies tell me what I want to know. I know there will sarcastic remarks made, and most of that comes from those who don't fully understand the topic, but, prefer to assume, so I get what I need from what is said.

FYI, the mouse trailing text on your webpage is annoying...


the 1 out of 126,000 visitors that makes that comment, I'll get rid of it for you.

the 1 out of 126,000 visitors that makes that comment, I'll get rid of it for you.Maybe I am the first one that had an open forum to say it in or the balls, either way don't bother, I won't be visiting again...:yay:

Maybe I am the first one that had an open forum to say it in or the balls, either way don't bother, I won't be visiting again...:yay:
:killingme

Maybe I am the first one that had an open forum to say it in or the balls, either way don't bother, I won't be visiting again...:yay:

I'm sorry to hear that. I do appologize for not having content that interests you, we do cater specifically to those who wish to gain more knowledge of the local music scene in the Southern Maryland area. It was an open invite, assuming that the local music scene is not your thing, maybe we can help you in the future.

SoMdMusician is not the name of my band, that's my screenname knothead.No, your screenname is wwwsmmonet, dickbag.

No, your screenname is wwwsmmonet, dickbag.


:lmao:

btw, it is becoming pretty obvious why you can't attract a crowd.

btw, it is becoming pretty obvious why you can't attract a crowd.
:yeahthat:

I doubt it applies anymore simply because of the passage of time, but of the gigs I played back in the 1970's, field parties/concerts drew the best crowds, and community centers were a close second. Bars were only good if they agreed to a fixed fee regardless of attendance and were willing to commit to more than one or two nights. The only exception to these would be when you could be on the same billing as a big name, and then venue didn't seem to matter.

I, personally, don't go to many live music venues because I'm 41 years old and not interested in a bunch of 20-somethings and their drama and fights, not to mention their drugs. I tend to like restaurants that have live entertainment rather than a club because the crowd is older.:yeahthat: Except for the 41 years old part.

The last semi-concert I went to in Southern Maryland I was certainly not pleased. I believe it was at the Spring Fest last year at the St. Mary's County fairgrounds. I like most types of music but I don't think I could declare this 'music' really. I wish they would have played a lil rock in between but it was nothing but screaming.:confused: I didn't really fit into that 'goth' crowd.

I love listening to live music (as long as it isn't moshing to a punk band in some dark, overstuffed club basement...:yikes:) and I really like the "dinner with live music" venue the best. In fact, I had so much fun at my last visit to Griff's Landing, I have informed my family I intend to get a summer house in Frederick so that I can go there every weekend...:getdown:

I like a bar and I like food. Outdoor concerts are okay except typically you can't drink and they almost always frown on smoking.

Plus the music should be a backdrop to the socializing. If you're Van Halen, okay - people will pay rapt attention to the music. But if you're a local band, you're the background. So don't crank it up or you'll just piss us off and we'll leave because we can't have a conversation while you're making a racket.


:yeahthat:
The few years ago I went to Monks, only had one drink and left. I had to cup my hand and yell into my sister ear to be heard and talking to more then one person at a time was totally out of the question. I have not been back.

Is anyone here old enough to remember Country Tavren, Village Barn, Black Eyed Susan ect. ? It was a bar with many owners and names. Located where the new Foodlion in Calloway is. It was a large building, which brings up my next point. A regular bar in front, with pool tables in the middle room and a large hall in the back where the bands played. Sure it had its share of dirtbags
and drama and drugs, but the place was big enough that you only had to be apart of what you wanted to. The bands played real rock music. Not this DANCE CRAP, TECHNO or SCREAMMING ?MUSIC?. And you could even have a conversation in the dance hall! Go figure!
Oh the days of my youth!!!!!!!!!!!!

:yeahthat:
The few years ago I went to Monks, only had one drink and left. I had to cup my hand and yell into my sister ear to be heard and talking to more then one person at a time was totally out of the question. I have not been back.

Is anyone here old enough to remember Country Tavren, Village Barn, Black Eyed Susan ect. ? It was a bar with many owners and names. Located where the new Foodlion in Calloway is. It was a large building, which brings up my next point. A regular bar in front, with pool tables in the middle room and a large hall in the back where the bands played. Sure it had its share of dirtbags
and drama and drugs, but the place was big enough that you only had to be apart of what you wanted to. The bands played real rock music. Not this DANCE CRAP, TECHNO or SCREAMMING ?MUSIC?. And you could even have a conversation in the dance hall! Go figure!
Oh the days of my youth!!!!!!!!!!!!
Yep, remember all those names and Ark & Dove, plus Charlie's Villa. The layout was great for the ability to socialize while out. Pennie's was about the same (in layout) and so wasn't Leonardtown Wharf. There aren't many of the larger establishments left where you could obtain the variety of activities mentioned where you aren't drowned out by the band.

Is anyone here old enough to remember Country Tavren, Village Barn, Black Eyed Susan ect. ? It was a bar with many owners and names. Located where the new Foodlion in Calloway is.

Ark & Dove and Roadhouse were a couple of other names it had if I remember correctly.

Ark & Dove and Roadhouse were a couple of other names it had if I remember correctly.Didn't the Rondevous run under a different name years ago? :confused:

:yawn:

:yawn:Am I that boring, or did you have a rough night?
:lmao:

Didn't the Rondevous run under a different name years ago? :confused:

Yep! The only other name I know of was Bennetts bar.

Didn't the Rondevous run under a different name years ago? :confused:
Bennett's Bar

Am I that boring, or did you have a rough night?
:lmao:
Maybe she was saying "come to Momma"? :biggrin:

I am really curious to know, from everyone, why do you not go to a bar or night club to see live bands perform? What is the exact turn-off for you in your decision to not go see a live band in a local Southern Maryland bar?



The last time I went to a bar in southern maryland, there were roughly 9,000 people packed into 900 square feet - half of them were stoned or coked-out, all were sweating, all drunk, all smoking, all trying to get laid.

Most other gathering places turn into sausage-fests where a fight can and often does break out over any stupid thing.

The bar scene in SOMD sucked ass when I was part of it, and I doubt that it's changed much since I got out of it.

Hmmmm.
I think most generally it is an age issue and the genre of music/talent available.
A conversation i had with Tomchamp at the rondevous(sp) get-together clued me into something.
He clicked on my lil rocker dude on my siggy and said that he really couldn'y "get into" my type of music...and i respect that.
If a band was to play the genre of classic rock, the only crowd they are going to draw is around 29-38. anyone younger than that is not going to relate and anyone older is not going to bother going out.
If the band was to play "harder" music...ie Godsmack/Saliva ect, the crowd is gonna be between 18-28
Another problemb that I personally forsee is location, All establishments around here are small, and if a band was to play....even at a lower descible level it's still gonna drown out the socializing.
Not that i think i have explained genre...now i will try to explain talent

Most of the musicians in this area realize that their major target crowd comes from the college. And a good percentage of the college kids are into "punk/ska" and some hip hop.
I don't know much about hip-hop "i have never been to a concert" but punk/ska has a certain.....well for a lack of better words, skill level to atain that sound. So if you try to play 311/ramones ect...and you suck at it....well there went your crowd right out the window.

If i had the $$ this is what i would do...
Find a location that is BIG ENOUGH to feature bands, assign certain genres to different nights/weekends/whatever. After a few weeks you should be seeing an increase in TALENTED MUSICIANS/BANDS....and an increase in CROWDS

my $0.2

It was fun talking to you the other night...and I'm glad I met you! Anyway there was a band that used to come down here about once a month...they played at Nokleby's. Played great classic rock....I think they played at The Creek a few times also....Transfusion! :dude:

I believe the most 'successful' gigs are when the band draws a group of regular followers, so one knows that friends/acquaintances will be in the audience and posted up at the bar to BS with.

Good case in point is the band 'Round Midnite. They are a good band that does a great job with standards, but an added reason for their success is that wherever they play the usual suspects are in the audience and it's going to be a great time.

Odin's Court is a really good metal band that mixes up standards and newer music, but for some reason hasn't had the crowd momentum lately.

The best play sets I have heard for a party atmosphere mix up some old rock (Zep/Aerosmith) with newer rock (Godsmack) and throw in newish harder pop (Blink-182/Offspring) and the horrible Romantics song 'What I like about you'. To a serious musician this may sound boring, but it is what the vast majority of 25-45 year olds want in a fun bar setting...the 25-45 year olds who bring money into the bar.

A Pink Floyd tribute band would do well around the college types. I'm also wondering if a Little Feat tribute band (or a band that mixes up Little Feat/Grateful Dead/southern rock would be able to cross over between places like Monk's and Toot's.

Harbor Sounds used to be a great venue, with the stage, indoor bar, and outdoor bar separated enough so one could compromise between pure concert or chatting with friends. The folks running it now as Captain Georges need to realize the potential and get their bar management straight because the bar is a disaster.

Brewski's in Loveville is another great venue that is really underutilized. Adequate stage area and plenty of dance floor with the bar separated out of the line of fire.

Finally... All bands are too loud. I am half-deaf from years of concerts, jet engines and gunfire, and even I can't take it. When you see the audience inserting foam earplugs (as I saw last night) you can be safe turning it down a notch.

And Transfusion drew a somewhat older crowd!

It was fun talking to you the other night...and I'm glad I met you! :
The pleasure was all mine:yay:
I'll tell wayne you said hi,
And maybe one of these day's i'll get to hear your nephew play :guitar:

The pleasure was all mine:yay:
I'll tell wayne you said hi,
And maybe one of these day's i'll get to hear your nephew play :guitar:
I'll see what I can do about getting you tickets. He even tells his mom..someday you gonna have to pay to see me play...not that he would charge her! But he has attitude and the drive! Now he just needs the luck to get that hook up!

He clicked on my lil rocker dude on my siggy and said that he really couldn'y "get into" my type of music...and i respect that.You touch on something Larry and I talk about a lot. He likes your music and thinks you're very talented. I think you're very talented, but I'm not crazy about your music (because it's just not my thing, although I think you do it better than most).

Where I'm going with this is that there are different types of music and venues that people enjoy. If every club features some young loud Limp Bizket wannabes, that limits the audience because it spreads them out. But if you've got one bar that has the Limp Bizkets, one that has country and a big dance floor, and another that has fossil rock for us old timers :dude:, then it brings out more people and everyone gets an audience.

I think there are too many bands that do the same thing, give or take a smidgen of talent here and there. Diversity is the key. My Dad told me a long time ago, if everyone is doing something, you do something else.

Does that make sense?

You touch on something Larry and I talk about a lot. He likes your music and thinks you're very talented. I think you're very talented, but I'm not crazy about your music (because it's just not my thing, although I think you do it better than most).

Where I'm going with this is that there are different types of music and venues that people enjoy. If every club features some young loud Limp Bizket wannabes, that limits the audience because it spreads them out. But if you've got one bar that has the Limp Bizkets, one that has country and a big dance floor, and another that has fossil rock for us old timers :dude:, then it brings out more people and everyone gets an audience.

I think there are too many bands that do the same thing, give or take a smidgen of talent here and there. Diversity is the key. My Dad told me a long time ago, if everyone is doing something, you do something else.

Does that make sense?
It makes perfect sense, :huggy: (thanx for the compliment BTW)
There is a plethra of "music" sites that you can search by location.
www.myspace.com
www.soundclick.com
www.purevolume.com
are just a few, the majority of the 3 listed have bands that classify themselves as punk/screamo/indie (ramones style for those that don't know)
A crowd that is into that type of genre is slowly starting to come around again. (those that love the 80's will have to wait your turn:lol:)

:yeahthat:
The few years ago I went to Monks, only had one drink and left. I had to cup my hand and yell into my sister ear to be heard and talking to more then one person at a time was totally out of the question. I have not been back. I've only been there to shoot darts on Wednesday night, but it is VERY loud and obnoxious. I can only imagine how bad it is on the weekends. :dead:

Is anyone here old enough to remember Country Tavren, Village Barn, Black Eyed Susan ect. ? It was a bar with many owners and names. Located where the new Foodlion in Calloway is. It was a large building, which brings up my next point. A regular bar in front, with pool tables in the middle room and a large hall in the back where the bands played. Sure it had its share of dirtbags
and drama and drugs, but the place was big enough that you only had to be apart of what you wanted to. The bands played real rock music. Not this DANCE CRAP, TECHNO or SCREAMMING ?MUSIC?. And you could even have a conversation in the dance hall! Go figure!
Oh the days of my youth!!!!!!!!!!!!:howdy: I remember it VERY well. I loved going there just BECAUSE you would actually TALK to people in the front and dance your booty off in the back.

I used to go to Town Creek Marina, Captain Tom's Oarhouse, Harbor Lights, Solomons Pier, Lemar Lanes (PRC at one time and now Cadillac Jack's), The Wharf and others I can't remember now. I found I gravitated to the bars where I could actually hold a conversation and not be deaf by the time the evening was over. :yay:

If I wanted loud and obnoxious, I would go to a place like Club Rio - a disco that used to be on Great Mills Road. :lol:

I'm only 30 and I've outgrown the loud, abrasive meat markets down here in SOMD. I will go to Abell's or Rondevous or ABC depending on who's open and how I feel. I like much smaller more mature crowds.. I don't even hang out with anyone my own age anymore. You can usually find me with a guy in his 40's or 50'd playing darts or shooting pool.
I have always "followed" local music, I know lots of guys who play in bands. From bluegrass to heavy metal, I'd go see anyone I liked. I am there to hear the band and see my friends.
I don't dig fighting, or getting shot at. I used to go to Monk's before it got ugly in there. I used to love going to The Green Door. :beerpong: but I guess, in my old age, I can't handle as much as I used to.

I am really curious to know, from everyone, why do you not go to a bar or night club to see live bands perform? What is the exact turn-off for you in your decision to not go see a live band in a local Southern Maryland bar?
Here is the biggest draw back locally .
Southern Maryland needs to create revenue for local scum bag Lawyers and something to do for the court system and people to fill thier bunks at the jail.

It's called the DWI racket.

Who wants to go see a band and not drink a couple of beers :cheers:

Three beers , three hours ,, Cuff cuff your in the pokie , there goes your DL, your insurance triples, And $5,000 dollars goes to a scum bag that sits in a differant bar with the judge.. :lol:

lighten up young'un... somdmusician is "A" screenname...

Didn't the Rondevous run under a different name years ago? :confused:

Yep it used to Benetts Bar as far back as I can remember, my cousin and I used to go in there and wear the pool table out all day, and that was back in the mid 70's.

Hey Hollowsoul,
I went to your website the otherday and listened to some of your music files. Who is you're drummer? And what is the name of your band? I assume it's Hollowsoul? Does your band play around here?

Hey Hollowsoul,
I went to your website the otherday and listened to some of your music files. Who is you're drummer? And what is the name of your band? I assume it's Hollowsoul? Does your band play around here?
The drums are from my Digitech GNX4 guitar effects processor.
I am the only member of the band (no-one else locally is into my style of music) so basiclly i'm a solo artist

I think part of the problem is we have no genuine good places to go to anymore. I used to go to Pennies, Leonardtown Wharf, Charlie's Villa, Cadillac Jacks, Abell's Wharf and a host of others. Most of the Firehouses held dances, seemed like every month one of them was hosting a dance. The crowds used to be very diverse in age. The biggest thing was, even if there was a fight or some little skirmish, everyone still felt safe because the owners took care of it immediately and sent the trouble makers packing. Today, you have to worry about being shot. We don't have places like that anymore, and people want something a little better.

There are a lot of people I know who would like to go out for a drink or two and maybe a dance, me included. But we are not into the "bar" scene anymore. I want a place where I can get a drink, maybe something to eat (which helps with the drinking problem/dwi,etc.) and relax without fear of a problem. A safe place. I want a place where I can breath without choking on the smoke and I want a place where I can take my Mother(77 years old and likes a drink now and than), my wife and/ or my girlfriend and have them feel comfortable too. The music needs to be diverse, reaching out to a wide age audience, and not overwhelmingly loud. That is how many of the old bands were, "back in the day." They played some old stuff, country, new stuff, and their own stuff. Most had a following, but most appealed to a wide range of ages.

So, if a NICE environment is provided, safe, clean and not appearing to be a "bar", some good food, reasonable drink prices and music that appeals to a diverse group was played, I think you would have a winner. A place where you are comfortable showing up in blue jeans or a suit and tie. A place that serves more than beer and booze. How about some frozen drinks and GOOD wine. Set it up so I can dance, or not, where I can play pool, or not and definitley set it up so I can have a normal conversation and you'll have my business.

I know LOTS of people who drive to Washington and / or Baltimore to get just this sort of thing and it is a shame. Not sying things are much safer up there, but they do tend to keep the riff-raff out with a cover charge and there enforcement of "attitude" indicators. I.E., certain shirts not allowed, no "cocked sideways" hats, no pants around your knees, etc. Secrets in Ocean City has a good sign psoted out front and bouncers tha enforce this stuff and they rarely have problems there.

I am really curious to know, from everyone, why do you not go to a bar or night club to see live bands perform? What is the exact turn-off for you in your decision to not go see a live band in a local Southern Maryland bar?

I personally do not like going to bars on live music night because its so dayum loud. You end up just sitting at a table screaming at the people you come with trying to have a convo; and laughing at the band's bar hag that walks around with their little books to sign and crap.

I can think of probably a few reasons why *I* don't go.

#1 reason - I have no idea they're there. Advertising. I have no way of knowing about it, short of walking up to the door and asking "who's that?".

2. Bars means smoking. I don't care much for it, most of the time, and my wife's ashthma cannot take it at all.

3. Lotta bands around here just plain suck. Sorry. Not paying to hear something I wouldn't listen to for FREE.

4. Ok, I'm old. Even older than Vrai, and that's saying something. Although not as old as Ken King, but I think there are some MOUNTAIN ranges younger than he is. I don't care for noisy venues surrounded by drunken fools. I guess if that's who you want to play for, I'm probably the wrong guy to ask.

5. Size of the bar - most of the local bars are too damned small to hold that big a crowd. You're better off ANYWHERE else, down here. Heck, have it at the damned firehouse.

So, if a NICE environment is provided, safe, clean and not appearing to be a "bar", some good food, reasonable drink prices and music that appeals to a diverse group was played, I think you would have a winner. A place where you are comfortable showing up in blue jeans or a suit and tie. A place that serves more than beer and booze. How about some frozen drinks and GOOD wine. Set it up so I can dance, or not, where I can play pool, or not and definitley set it up so I can have a normal conversation and you'll have my business.

I have heard this on more than one occasion from friends (35 to 50 ish age group). I can get into to most music at any venue. But refuse to hang-out with a bunch of punks, that are ready to fight if looked at cross eyed.

I think the type of place you speak of would do well in this area. In fact my friends have been on me about opening just that type of place.

The drums are from my Digitech GNX4 guitar effects processor.
I am the only member of the band (no-one else locally is into my style of music) so basiclly i'm a solo artist

Have you been any bands in the area? I don't recall hearing the name Hollowsoul, just curious. Rob

Have you been any bands in the area? I don't recall hearing the name Hollowsoul, just curious. Rob
You're kidding???? You've never heard of HollowSoul???

You must be new to the east coast.

You're kidding???? You've never heard of HollowSoul???

You must be new to the east coast.
I've never heard of them, either, and I've lived here all of my life.

I've never heard of them, either, and I've lived here all of my life.
It's not a them... It's a linky in hollowsoul's siggy line.

It's his own creation. Needs mid range work.

I personally do not like going to bars on live music night because its so dayum loud. You end up just sitting at a table screaming at the people you come with trying to have a convo; and laughing at the band's bar hag that walks around with their little books to sign and crap.

I just wanted to touch on something real quick about the "bar hag who would like for you to sign the book". It's really important for the band to get certain information from the audiences who are willing to offer it up. It brings us to the statement that SamSpade made in his post:

#1 reason - I have no idea they're there. Advertising. I have no way of knowing about it, short of walking up to the door and asking "who's that?".

This is the reason bands offer to have to you sign up for their newsletters, so they can inform you of where they will be, if you liked the band you saw, then sign the book, if not, don't, atleast when the bands you liked are playing out somewhere, you'll know where not to go.

See, the bands that ask you to sign their book are doing it to help you out, There is no reason for anyone to feel uncomfortable about giving a band their email addresses/ cell phone numbers (for text gig notices), instant messenger screen names, or any of that stuff, they simply want to provide a route to connect to the audience, they hold their email databases tight like fort knox, why give away free direct marketing info to another band... kinda stupid huh?

When I think of bars in this area, for the most part I think of crowds, noise, and drunks.

I don't like large crowds, although I do go to some large events in the DC area a couple of the times a year and suffer through. Most places around here pack you in. They are not large enough to handle the amount of people.

Music doesn't have to be played loud to be good. I'd prefer someplace where I could enjoy the music and still hold a conversation without shouting.

The drunks are obnoxious and EVERYWHERE. I don't want to be around screaming, fighting, and the rest of the crap that goes on. Sorry, I just don't want to go somewhere where I fear for my life or getting hurt.

Give me someplace where I could enjoy a live band, dancing, good food, and great conversation. I'd be in absolute heaven. :smile:

You're kidding???? You've never heard of HollowSoul???

You must be new to the east coast.

well no, I was born in the Leonardtown hospital that isn't there anymore, so, I've been here awhile... LOL

I don't want to be around screaming, fighting, and the rest of the crap that goes on.
And I'll add to that that I don't like to have to fight my way into the bathroom because of all the drama mamas that hang out in there talking about which chick is going to get her ass kicked for talking to someone else's boyfriend. If the average age is 25, it's unlikely you will see me there.

And I'll add to that that I don't like to have to fight my way into the bathroom because of all the drama mamas that hang out in there talking about which chick is going to get her ass kicked for talking to someone else's boyfriend. If the average age is 25, it's unlikely you will see me there.
Amen sista! :high5:

Have you been any bands in the area? I don't recall hearing the name Hollowsoul, just curious. Rob
I was in "tainted reality" about 2 and a hlf years ago, we really didn't do much but jam....
so your answer would be no I haven't been in any

CAUTION: long rambling response. Since NMCI is acting up it will probably take me forever to post, so here it goes.
Very interesting thread, for those of you who don’t know me, I’ve worked at a local bar here in St.Marys for the past 18 years. I usually don’t post anything about it or what’s going on since I don’t want to be thought of as advertising for free on the forums, or anything like that. I do post in the calendar section though. I can see where the person who started this thread has good intentions, yet like most of you have already said he came to the wrong place. I’ve received e-mails from him promoting his SoMdMusicians web site but it seems to be a self-serving site for his own band. ½ the bands and venues listed don’t even exist anymore. Maybe if he kept it updated it would be a more valuable site. I find it interesting that those of you who voted would like more outdoor concerts. Unfortunately in a few more months winter will be here and that won’t work. I don’t know how to reply about the smoking issue, some don’t want to go to a bar because of the smoke, while others want to because they can smoke. I’m a non-smoker (unless you count second hand smoke) and would love to see no smoking in bars, but realize that’s not practical from an economic standpoint for us. Other than smoke eaters and fans, I don’t know what else to do. I’d be willing to bet that 99% of the smokers here can’t smoke at work, would it be that hard to go outside at a bar to smoke? Take your drink/beer with you? Be able to listen to the music? I’d love to hear some feed back on that. Next subject- Drunk, rowdy young un’s…we don’t cater to that crowd because of the problems, most of the places that do have the cops there several times a night. Should we change the sign on the door to read, “Must be 30 or older to enter “ instead of 21? LOL. Don’t really know what to do about them except responsible bartending. It was mentioned to Vrai about us having a get together similar to last weeks, however I don’t want to be thought of as a copycat. Maybe a super secret forum get together for Happy Hour instead of lunch, or after reading this thread, some sort of band night with specials for forum members? Maybe we could even get a special performance by HollowSoul?

CAUTION: long rambling response. Since NMCI is acting up it will probably take me forever to post, so here it goes.
Very interesting thread, for those of you who don’t know me, I’ve worked at a local bar here in St.Marys for the past 18 years. I usually don’t post anything about it or what’s going on since I don’t want to be thought of as advertising for free on the forums, or anything like that. I do post in the calendar section though. I can see where the person who started this thread has good intentions, yet like most of you have already said he came to the wrong place. I’ve received e-mails from him promoting his SoMdMusicians web site but it seems to be a self-serving site for his own band. ½ the bands and venues listed don’t even exist anymore. Maybe if he kept it updated it would be a more valuable site. I find it interesting that those of you who voted would like more outdoor concerts. Unfortunately in a few more months winter will be here and that won’t work. I don’t know how to reply about the smoking issue, some don’t want to go to a bar because of the smoke, while others want to because they can smoke. I’m a non-smoker (unless you count second hand smoke) and would love to see no smoking in bars, but realize that’s not practical from an economic standpoint for us. Other than smoke eaters and fans, I don’t know what else to do. I’d be willing to bet that 99% of the smokers here can’t smoke at work, would it be that hard to go outside at a bar to smoke? Take your drink/beer with you? Be able to listen to the music? I’d love to hear some feed back on that. Next subject- Drunk, rowdy young un’s…we don’t cater to that crowd because of the problems, most of the places that do have the cops there several times a night. Should we change the sign on the door to read, “Must be 30 or older to enter “ instead of 21? LOL. Don’t really know what to do about them except responsible bartending. It was mentioned to Vrai about us having a get together similar to last weeks, however I don’t want to be thought of as a copycat. Maybe a super secret forum get together for Happy Hour instead of lunch, or after reading this thread, some sort of band night with specials for forum members? Maybe we could even get a special performance by HollowSoul?

:yikes: the pressure of a SOLO PERFORMANCE!

:yikes: the pressure of a SOLO PERFORMANCE!
I have too many solo performances these days. :shrug: :ohwell:

I am really curious to know, from everyone, why do you not go to a bar or night club to see live bands perform? What is the exact turn-off for you in your decision to not go see a live band in a local Southern Maryland bar?


I agree with Vrai for the most part about the socializing aspect. When the band is so loud that they're near blowing their speakers, it really detracts from the experience.

The other reason I don't go to clubs or bars around here to listen to music is because the clubs and bars are trash! Owners invest little in their place of business, and most of the ones that I've been to around here smell of spilled beer, urine, body odor, rotting wood or carpet, and dead bugs. It also appears that a lot of them don't even bother with cleaning. There's also usually no seating and the place gets crammed so tight you can't move.

It's gross. And the bathrooms are even worse.

I'd much rather go to outdoor gigs that are spacious, usually have plenty of seating, be it on the grass or on benches, have fresh air, and are open so that the sound dissipates and I can hear the guy standing next to me.

I believe that outdoor gigs are the best. Number one, People are not all packed together hot and nasty, If ya wanna smoke, go smoke. Plus, Your range of tone and how your rig sounds is a whole lot better(in my opinion) outside than in.Alot of times an outdoor gig will help you hide your playing sins, More people can watch and enjoy, Even from a distance. Even at night. I think some of the most fun I've had at bars with bands is when the band played outside. Plus, If you have a good performance lined up, it feels alot better to jam in the cool night air than it does in a stuffy bar any day.

2. Families- People can bring families to outdoor gigs and not really to indoor gigs.

I have to agree that outdoor venues, currently, have the number one spot, BUT, as Tomcat said about the winter time thing, what'cha you gonna do then?

Personally, I think if there were more summer months outdoor concerts, and they would obviously be a huge hit in the area (look at my poll), people would have the opportunity to take advantage of the outdoor festivities, and in the winter months, they either suffer through a bar or just spend time with the family.

Maybe some of the lower / middle class bar / nightclub owners will read these posts and realize they might need to consider cleaning house, or taking advantage of what "YOU" the public is saying about the bar / night club scene around here, Badda-Bing! See the point of this is to make the music scene better ( bands get the message, bars get the message, audiences get the message) when people open their mouths and make comments suggestions, and opinions to the public, things change, nothing is gonna change if you say it to yourself, whose gonna hear the message?

These forums are getting the message out that bars are not cutting it around here, fortunately, I opened my mouth to start getting the points made and the audiences to opinionate... so, hopefully the bars / night clubs will wake up. If your a bar / nightlub owner and you're curious what people might be saying about your business, this is the smart place to come right? after all it is directed to this forum, this is where they would find the information in Southern Maryland. So, if you would like to see the outdoor concerts fall and the bars take over again... let the bar / nightclub owners know, JUSTSAY IT!

I'm sorry, most bars are not cutting it, I have been to TomCats Place a few times, and that is one of the much better ones in the area... CUDOS! Now, lets get Hollowsoul up on that stage, maybe my band can back him one night.
out of curiosity, what is the name of your band?
Does your band have a website?

Maybe we could even get a special performance by HollowSoul?

I get them all the time!:blushing: :lmao:

out of curiosity, what is the name of your band?
Does your band have a website?

My bands name is Bracer, we don't have a website yet, we're in the process of putting that together right now.