Some questions/concerns about performing...

[Synesthesia]

Hey guys, I'm pretty new to performing sans a handful of times I've been on stage, and I've got a lot on my mind seeing as how our band is going to start getting out there ASAP.

Basically, I'm a bit worried about how our music will be taken considering the environment we play in. Tampa isn't known for much else than death metal, hardcore/screamo and ska, and we fit more along the lines as a melodic prog/experimental/rock/metal band. It seems like metal crowds here hate most anything that doesn't have blast beats and torn vocal cords. We want to go against the whole thing (strong sense of melodies, tight riffs, intricate drumming and bass, powerful but clean vocals) and I'm not sure how the crowds will react.

Also, I've got a little problem with relaxing. During a faster song it's not a problem, I usually just go crazy, but on slower stuff I get a bit anxious. Is there any way to get rid of it besides just getting used to playing? Maybe a tad bit of "magical green" beforehand?

[waylay00]

I think that there is at least a small niche of people who like each genre in every area. If word gets out that you guys are a killer prog rock band, all the prog heads will surely come by. It's just a matter of promotion I think.

[Vim Fuego]

Originally Posted by Synesthesia

Also, I've got a little problem with relaxing. During a faster song it's not a problem, I usually just go crazy, but on slower stuff I get a bit anxious. Is there any way to get rid of it besides just getting used to playing? Maybe a tad bit of "magical green" beforehand?

Can't recommend "magical green", whatever that is but I used to have a similar problem, particularly on solos. Then I stood in for a guy in a mate's blues band that had a drum machine instead of a drummer! Bizarre but it did help with my timing. Try using a metronome or drum machine when practising, particularly when playing slow bits.
Good luck!
Jim

[Synesthesia]

Thanks a bunch guys. And Vim Fuego, it's not even timing that I get lost on, its the fact that now I can't go all Angus Young and siezure my way out of the limelight. Speaking of Limelight, that's hopefully going to be a song we cover, with some added keyboard parts.

[Vim Fuego]

Fair enough, we used to cover Spirit Of Radio and La Villa Strangiato. Sometimes people would just watch as if to say "Huh?" hilarious! I still want to do Limelight. Will you be touring the South West uk?
Jim

[Synesthesia]

Probably not any time soon unless we make it big. Will you be coming to Florida anytime soon? Hahaha. But actually I went to the UK last summer and LOVED it, so I definitely will try to get us a spot somewhere there. My dream is to play at the Astoria, since I saw a play there and the vibe was magnificent.