It's Only a Matter of Degree

The Band is playing for eight weekends in a row. That's a first for the Ron Palangio Group, and in my humble opinion, not bad for a bunch of hobby freelance musicians! Here's the setup, for the record:

1. The Innsville
2. The Brassie Pub
3. Waltz Live Music
4. The Old Powerhouse
5. Private Party
6. The Innsville
7. Winchester Arms Pub
8. Magna International Corp. Christmas Dance

We finally get a weekend off on December 10th, but if we had our way we would book up for that night as well. We must love what we're doing.

Tonight is a first for us, however, because we're taking a stab at self-promotion. Waltz Live Music and Eatery is an established joint located downtown in Jackson Square.

A few of us went in on Karaoke night last Thursday to check out the PA. Sketchy setting: About 25 regulars scattered across the 125 seat room, one guy singing not too bad, and one guy on the dance floor dancing with himself. Oh well, I guess the regulars feel pretty comfortable!

Looks like we're going to have a "real" sound system tonight, which takes the performance angst up a notch. Usually, with our own PA, we're pretty comfortable, but with the new "showcase" concept and a new PA, I'm feeling nervous/excited.

That is a good thing. Way better than being bored with the gig and with the songs. Boredom would ruin our show and our edge. We need just enough UNCERTAINTY to keep us on our toes and in the moment. We must constantly eradicate the "ho-hum" factor. These 8 weeks in a row will be a success if we keep our edge, and keep it fresh.

The Ron Palangio Group, August 2011