Its a conspiracy worse and more involved than the reverse vampires. This is bigger than anyone could've ever imagined. Discuss.

Anyone using the word “scene” needs to stop playing music looking for acceptance and needs to start writing tunes that are good.

Some play for others, others play for themselves.

But most cry that people don't blindly buy their shit and support their shows.

IMHO, some bands play way too many shows.

Agreed, especially in the same area. Then they wonder why no one goes. "Just seen you last week, and about 5miles from where you're playing tonight dicks."

IMO,local shows in general have sucked since the economy crashed. Not the only reason for poor turnouts, I know. But a lot of people just do NOT go out anymore. Huge difference between pre and post 2008 show attendence from what I've seen.

The crowds are a lot different too.

so true. if you're not playing in different areas, you shouldn't be playing all the time.

I know, right? WTF?!

Also it seems like there are no venues in MA (other than maybe 1 or 2) that actually have a solid "metal crowd" draw by themselves, no matter who is playing. Thereby making it so that if the bands don't bring ALL the people, you wind up playing for the bartender and the 1 guy you suckered into helping lugging your shit for exchange for some $1 drafts. @ this point I'd be happy if trolls were running the "scene, @ least there'd be a ton of anon heads @ the shows lol

Well, I mean, lets face it. Playing shows is fun. Bands like to have fun and party.
some shows are more about having fun than gaining any new fans. Personally, I've always fell under the "one show every month or two months" policy.

My rule of thumb is to go at least three months between playing in each of the local catchment areas (Boston, Worcester, Providence). Unless there's a huge demand for you to play, play some shows for a bit and then take time off to write and record.