Seven Reasons to see a Local Band Instead of a Major Label Band

IT'S CHEAPER. That means more money for beer.

YOU KNOW IT'S GENUINE MUSIC. Not just what their record producer thinks you want to hear, or what the music industry tells you is cool. These are the songs that the band bleeds for, and it shows.

THEY WILL APPRECIATE YOU MORE. Ever waited by a big band's tour bus just *hoping* that they'll come out and give you a hastily-signed autograph? Independent bands will sign your stuff, thank you heartily, and sincerely appreciate your support.

YOUR MONEY GOES DIRECTLY TO THE BAND. Your $5-$10 for a CD or a t-shirt buys these people gas/food/shower/etc. as they starve their way across the country, while the $40 you spend on a concert tee at the coliseum buys record producers' yachts and extravagant gifts for their mistresses... while *maybe* $5 goes to the band. Doesn't that make you mad?

YOU CAN SAY YOU "KNEW THEM WHEN." If this band that you like is really good, tell everyone you know to listen... then YOU will be the one who can say, "I knew these guys when they were playing Billy Bob's Bullsh*t Battle of the Bands, and now they're on the radio!" If you were a really loyal fan by the time they're famous, they might even send you free stuff.

YOU CAN ACTUALLY TALK TO THE BAND. If you have questions or need advice about what instruments to buy, or want to know how someone got that famous guitar tone, you can ask. These musicians aren't just going to pack up and hide in their tour buses for the rest of the night--they'll talk to you and answer your questions.

THREE WORDS: STREET TEAM PARTIES. Not only do you get to party at shows, if you know the band members and help promote the shows, you are likely to get invited to the bands' parties for insiders.