Went to a sold-out show last night and it just wasn't the same

I remember when shows were about the music, not the Instagram posts. You could talk to the band after, and it felt like a community. Last night, everyone was on their phones, recording instead of feeling the moment. The venue was huge, and the sound was too clean. I miss the grit of those small, sweaty rooms. It's like the soul of indie music got lost in the chase for followers. Maybe I need to seek out smaller acts again.

3 comments

3 Comments

wyattmitchell2h ago

Yeah, that bit about "the soul of indie music got lost" really hits. I read an interview recently where this guitarist was saying they purposely book smaller, weirder venues on tour now, even if they could fill a bigger place. They said the energy exchange just doesn't work in a sterile hall where you can't see the whites of people's eyes. It made me want to go hunt down a show in a basement or a VFW hall again.

jenniferr971h ago

Actually, bigger venues can be just as good for indie music. They let bands reach more people who might not get to see them otherwise. The sound and lights are often better, which adds to the show. Sure, you might not see every face, but the crowd's energy still fills the room. Indie music isn't about where it's played but how it's made and shared. Plus, playing big halls can help bands grow without selling out.

chen.robin2h ago

Haha, @wyattmitchell, that makes me remember when I tried to start a band and we could only book my mom's garage. The "energy exchange" was mostly her yelling to turn it down.