Gig Etiquette: How Not To Be A F*cking Asshole At Live Events

Over the weekend I went to my first gig in a long time. I work a lot of hours and have been busy. Gigs weren't exactly a priority. At the gig in question, the band were fantastic. Some of the fans, however, were not. I go to a lot of alternative music events and have had quite the range of experiences. Some alt music fans are really nice and respectful where others are really not. I therefore thought I'd write up a few quick ground rules for gig-goers.

1. You want to be at the front of the gig? Good. Get to the venue early and queue up like everyone else. Don't wait until the gig has started and then push your way through the crowd to the front - especially if you end up hurting people, knocking them over and splitting up people who want to be able to enjoy the gig together. Some of us made plans to queue up to earn a place at the front and so we bloody well deserve it. 
2. I came here to see a band play. I didn't come to hear you and your buddy have a loud conversation throughout the entire event. If you came to see your friend rather than the band then hang out at the bar and don't bother people. 
3. You want to mosh? That's fine, but mosh if other people want to get involved. Create a safe space to do so and if people fall down, pick them up. I almost got trampled at a Sisters of Mercy gig because a bunch of dudes thought it was OK to start pushing and moshing in a really tight crowd of people. I was winded and knocked to the floor. A friend of mine had to fight people back to pull me up so my head didn't get stamped on. 
4. Got a drink? Bored of it? How about you don't drop it on the floor in the middle of a crowd? It's an instant health and safety hazard, someone could slip and hurt themselves. Either drink it, hold it or see if your friend wants it. Don't create a slipping hazard for other people. 
5. It's pretty common to want to sing along with the songs. You should be able to enjoy the music. That said, if I can hear your out of tune singing over the actual music, that's not going to be fun. If more than one person turns around to stare at you to find the source of the warbling, take it as a hint and take it down a few notches.
6. Don't pickpocket. Just don't. Ever.
7. Don't throw yourself at the stage at the singer in an effort to show your love for them, especially if you knock over several other fans in the process. I've seen plenty of guys literally throwing themselves at the feet of female singers at gigs. It's just a bit awkward for everyone involved.
8. Being in a crowd does not give you any excuse for a casual grope. Ever. 
9. Respect queues be they outside the venue, at the merch table or at the bar. It's basic respect. 
10. Be generally supportive. Is someone getting squished? Give them space. Standing in front of people? Just turn around and check if the people behind you can see what's going on. Did someone faint? Seek help. Does someone want out of the crowd? Move for them. 

The bottom line is that you're all there for one sole purpose: to see the band and have a good time. Just make sure you're allowing the people around you to have a good time too. 

Gig Review: Within Temptation @ Wembley Arena.

This weekend I had the delight of seeing the wonderful Within Temptation this weekend. I've loved this band for about ten years. It wasn't my first time seeing them live, but it was a brilliant gig. I almost felt 16 again, like I was young and newly in love with a band all over again.

I bought tickets for this gig about a year and three months ago. I bought them when I was a student, finishing my university dissertation. I bought these gig tickets with my student loans. That's how long ago it was that I bought tickets for this gig. Of course they scheduled the gig way ahead in the future but then the gig was rescheduled due to recording conflicts. I can confirm that it was well worth the wait.

Wembley Arena was filled and surrounded by corset clad women and band shirt bearing boys. There was a general buzz of excitement even though it was such a large venue. Within Temptation were supported by Delain, a band I'd heard much of from several friends but had never actually listened to. Delain gave a good, energetic performance. I'll definitely give them a further listen. They may even be some upcoming song of the day choices.

Sharon and the gang took to the stage with a brilliant set up, featuring two giant hydra heads, and impressive pyrotechnics.

The band played many songs from their latest album, utilising a large screen and recordings from those they've done duets with, and threw in some old favourites like Mother Earth, Ice Queen, Angels and See Who I Am. 

Sharon managed to pull off swift costume changes from leather corsets to sparkly party dresses all done in record time. Her vocals were crystal clear and from where I was standing the band looked like they were all having fun and really just enjoying what they were doing. Everything was smooth, well rehearsed and reminded us that these guys are true pros at what they do. This gig was a brilliant return to the UK and proved that the Temptation gang are strong as ever, each like a different head of the same Hydra.

Song of the Day: Angels by Within Temptation

"Sparkling angel I believed
you were my saviour in my time of need.
Blinded by faith I couldn't hear
all the whispers, the warnings so clear.
I see the angels,
I'll lead them to your door.
There's no escape now,
no mercy no more.
No remorse cause I still remember
the smile when you tore me apart."

Song of the Day: Memories by Within Temptation

"In this world you tried

not leaving me alone behind.

There's no other way.

I prayed to the gods let him stay.

The memories ease the pain inside,

now I know why."

Song of the Day: Dangerous by Within Temptation ft. Howard Jones

"The countdown has begun, the walls are falling down.

My life is on the line, but freedom is mine."

Song of the Day: Running Up That Hill by Faith and the Muse

The song "Running Up That Hill" has seen many reincarnations.

Kate Bush...Placebo...Within Temptation...

But it has also been covered by the wonderful Faith and the Muse.

Faith and the Muse are a band that I adore and haven't listened to in a while so I really hope that you like this song of the day choice.
Enjoy,