Readers counter criticism of live music experiences
In response to Sasha Mistlin's article "The hill I will die on: Going to a gig is an endurance test" (20 June), several readers have defended the live music experience, particularly outside central London. Paul Dyson, owner of the independent venue Pilgrim in Newcastle upon Tyne, described Mistlin's assessment as "ungenerous." He noted that the joy of live gigs is "alive and kicking" weekly, despite economic challenges for grassroots music venues.
London audiences compared unfavorably
Dyson highlighted a disparity in audience quality: "Spoiled London audiences are far more cynical and unresponsive than those of us off the beaten track." He recalled watching Anton Newcombe of the Brian Jonestown Massacre play a 30-minute encore to a rapturous Newcastle audience on a Tuesday, then return for just one song to a muted London crowd the next day. "Same quality of gig, different quality of audience," he said, adding, "You get out of it what you put in." He invited readers to visit his venue for affordable, vibrant shows.
Alternative music scenes offer respect and value
Clive Sykes from London suggested Mistlin try improvised or experimental music gigs at venues like Cafe Oto and Hundred Years Gallery. These are "run by enthusiasts, often musicians themselves," with mutual respect, reasonable ticket prices, and innovative music. Sykes noted a long history of such music in the UK, offering satisfaction without the drawbacks Mistlin described.
Communion found at punk gigs
Graham Larkbey from London countered Mistlin's claim of never feeling communion at gigs, citing Charlie Harper's 82nd birthday show with UK Subs. The crowd was "united in its joyous celebration" of the band and Harper himself, described as "a great punk frontman and a genuine living legend."
Practical complaints from older fans
Ken Shifrin from Oxford added a practical complaint: the interminable waiting for bands to take the stage. He noted that a sign of aging is when, upon hearing a favorite band is in town, one asks "is that sitting or standing?" rather than eagerly planning to attend.
