"And they're doing the standing still..."

Last Wednesday, I caught a show at Abba Java Coffee House that probably drew between 100-200 people. The crowd appalled me, though. Those figures sound great for a few local bands in a coffee house until you realize most everyone came for one band and left before the others came on, meaning the attendance was more like 40 people at a time. And half those 40 were just standing around, ignoring the fact that a rock show was going on in front of them.

I was there to catch the Arctic Summer for a profile story (free plug: check Venues on Thursday!) They opened, putting on a high energy set. Stationed from the couch mid-way back in the room, I could turn my head to see two entirely different sights.

Turning to the left, I saw the band's buds and real music fans, enjoying the set, or at least paying attention to it. One guy was even dancing!

But if I turned to my right, I saw people browsing the Internet and shooting pool. I saw idle conversations, and people wandering in and out of the building.

It may seem like I'm going to whine about the guys in the back, but both groups were at fault. After the Arctic Summer's set, most of the people who had been up front left the venue. Some of those who were ignoring the music before moved up close to catch the next band, and new people filtered in. This continued throughout the show.

Maybe this is just me, but I wouldn't show up thirty minutes late to this week's NRT show, watch my friend's five minute segment, then leave. Forget the fact that it's disrespectul to the other performers: why not enjoy the whole show?

Last week I ripped on Alpha Sigma Phi for organizational problems. But there is one compliment I can give them: they drew a decent crowd who had fun, despite some flaws. Arctic Summer even called it their favorite show ever, and said the crowd connection was fantastic. From what I saw of their Abba Java set, there's no reason they shouldn't have had the same response.

What is with this attitude? Do people even realize that their friends aren't the only ones playing at shows? I honestly don't see the point of paying five dollars to watch your friends play a 30 minute set of songs you've likely heard before. You've already purchased admission, you've already dragged yourself to the venue, why not check out some new bands?

If your friend's band is throwing on a show, show up on time and see the other acts. Stick around and see the headliner. If you find yourself at a show standing in the back talking, move up front to get a better look at the band. See those things sticking out of your waist? Those are called hips. Move them. I'm not asking you to love every local band you see, but at least give them a chance.