Almost ready to go except...

[Dirty G.I.T]

Well, there comes a time in very project when you've got to just get out there and test the waters. My current band wantS to start gigging, but we're not sure where to start. We play mostly originals but we have a couple of covers we can throw in the mix if need be. I we definetly don't play metal, but were not exactly easy listening either. So I'm asking any tb'ers ( especially those in Noth Carolina),where's a good place to start? What should we avoid? Are there certain venues that are more amatuer friendly than others? Are battle of the bands a good place to start? I know I have a lot of qustions but I want to be armed with as much knowledge as possible. ( because knowing is half the battle ;])

Any help/advice would be much appreciated.

[Jason P Bass]

Go to places that have bands play, and

Find the ones where A) the bands sound similar to you, or B) you're pretty darn sure the crowd would like you, and

Ask the staff who books the bands, meet them, and try to get a gig.

Having recordings of any sort will help.

Don't be shy. All you can do is fail, which is better than doing nothing, because you'll learn something along the way.

Good luck.

[Fish Lascivious]

Find other bands in your area that have a similar sound and ask them if you can jump on a bill with them as an opener. Or just talk to different venues and find out what the story is with how they book, run shows, etc.... Another good way is to do it yourself and rent out a VFW hall and put on your own show. Just charge like 2-3$ at the door and you'll be set. You may need to have your own PA though.

[Dirty G.I.T]

Thanks for the advice, guys. I really like the idea of running our own show with a few other bands, but I think I'm going to save that for after we've networked a bit and done some solid gigs. I don't want us to overextend ourselves too early on.