My First Experience In my Local Scene

by Jeremy Plume

I was never the guy that was interested in making music and was never involved in online music communities, so back in 2015 when my pal Ken asked me if I wanted to go see a local show I was very skeptical.

I really did not want to go. I felt like since I was not invested in an instrument or had no idea about my local scene that I would be an outcast and thought I might not have any interest in the music. However I did not want to stay inside alone by myself at that time so I decided to join him. Worst case scenario, I would hear the set and that would be it and the end of my local show experience.

As I was driving to the venue there was a lot on my mind; how long was was this going to take, how many bands will be playing, what kind of music do they play and will I like it, where will I have to park and not have to worry about my car? When I entered the venue I expected a big room and a big stage but it was just a small room that had an area where the instruments were set, couches, a small canteen and of course an open area to stand and mosh.

Me and Ken got settled and were ready for the show to begin, however it did not start on time and there was some technical difficulties. Once it started it didn't seem the best, seemed like the instruments were out of tune, the mic did not pick up the vocals and the guitar was overshadowing all the other instruments. I thought that that this was a very shaky start and hoped that since it was the opening act it would get better.

After the first band finished there set there was a break to switch equipment and I asked Ken how many more sets were left; he said there were two. I knew I was not into this and wanted to leave but didn't because I did not want to look bad in front of him.

With the second band that played the quality got better but I wasn't into the music they were playing. After the set, I asked Ken if this was normally the quality of bands that played there. He said it wasn't the bigger bands performing, so they weren't the best.

The last band really opened my eyes.

It was very surprising. Once they started playing it instantly turned into a mosh pit; I stood by and observed. It was only a few people but it was impactful and people were having fun. It gave me a jolt of energy and I was now hyped with the music.

At the end of the set I wasn't sure if I actually had fun or if I was having fun because of everyone else having a good time. During the drive home Ken asked me if I enjoyed it. I said no.

He defended the local scene and told me I had to give it another chance. I didn't want to waste my time, but there was something that gave me the urge to come back.

With all of the technical difficulties, audio problems, all the bands playing their sets and with just the people there in general it made me realize that this was people trying to make a name for them and to play what they love to the people who attend local shows. That made me really want to give it another shot and I am glad I did, there were some shows that I attended back then that really gave me the thrill of attending a local show. The people that I have met and now are friends with because of me going to shows have given me nothing but happiness and to anyone that has not gone to a local show because they are worried about being a standout, all I have to say is give it a chance and you won't regret it.

Photo by Matias Ramirez-Bugeno