why you should go to more gigs
If you know me, you know that I go to a lot of gigs. To be precise, I went to 72 gigs last year! And each one was memorable. You might ask why?
- catharsis - do you know how there's always songs that you want to put on repeat or those that make you think, feel, reflect, and lose yourself for a moment? Live music can also be meditation for me - away from the distractions of modern life. I have often come out of a gig after a mosh, a dance, or just some contemplation that has given me insight into whatever I am tackling in life at that moment.
- community - there's a sense of belonging at gigs- big or small, local or international, seated or standing. We all come in as one to enjoy this music before us. Thoughts and worries fade away as you become more present and get lost in the music. By going to a bunch of metal shows, I have found a bunch of folks that I talk to regularly and we all stumble into each other at various gigs. It's lovely.
- discovery - seeing support bands or random bands you otherwise would not listen to creates a sense of serendipity in this world of algorithms and recommendation engines. This also extends to venues. Listening to some music you love at a venue you've never been to creates a strong link between the two. Eventually, after going to venues repeatedly, I've formed a sense of belonging and sense of home there.
- obsession - not always the healthiest thing but I really enjoy the sense of planning my year out with gigs, discovering new venues, bands, gigs, and collectives. Naturally, gig conflicts occur and the urge to drive to an adjacent city becomes more of an appealing challenge. Or when the work week is going to be gruelling but you have a gig lined up on a Friday night.
- local scene/s - every city has a bit of a local scene. Naarm/Melbourne is known for it's metalcore, for example. Mulubinba/Newcastle is known for it's hardcore scene. I love supporting local bands knowing that I can talk to them afterwards and see them grow. Often, I've had better experiences seeing a local band live vs big international acts. Especially the local metal scene here!
- mental health - going to gigs solo has been the thing that has single-handedly made me a more confident and less socially awkward person. I'll admit this came at the cost of increased alcohol consumption initially, but now I don't need that at all!
So, If I can reach across one thing to you, dear reader, it's that you should go to more live gigs if you are in a position to do so. Try find a place that lists local gigs and go! Going solo can be tough but hopefully you can reel a few friends along with you too. I promise you'll find catharsis.
I am currently tracking all my 2024 gigs and my aim is to do more local gigs and visit nearly every venue in Eora/Sydney. I'll have to do a post about that in the future.
If you're located in Eora/Sydney and want to go to more gigs, look up sydneymusic.net! It's a dead simple gig guide that's community driven and can take you to any musical destination you desire.