Alcohol and playing

[larryace]

I can't have any alcohol before playing, it really affects me. My ideas get very run of the mill and my execution is delayed. Not that I drink afterwards either, I rarely do. I was wondering on everyone elses opinion on this subject

[Mediocrefunkybeat]

Alcohol is a depressant. It slows down your reactions and is generally detrimental to your performance. I generally find it best avoided if you're playing or if you go to house parties when people make incorrect assumptions and decide they don't like you. No matter.

[Ian]

If I play a short set while drunk I just play poorly. A long set, however, will end with lots of pain and dehydration. I grip too tightly and end up hurting my hands, wrists, and elbows (the vibration used to give me bad tennis elbow).

I avoid it. when you get to the club, if you feel the need to drink, just ask the bartender for a bitters and soda. It will look like you've got a drink, so people won't try to buy you one, and it's good for the stomach and hydrating... kinda looks like a long island with some fizz. It has about as much alcohol as a glass of orange juice.

[bobdadruma]

I grew up during the sixties, So i don't think that I have to explain anymore about alcohol and such things. I have a strict rule that I follow. One Beer Per Hour. If I am in a situation that I feel that I want to drink, that is what I do. There is no substance that will help you play better! Period! You may think that you are playing better, But the fact is, You are not! Anything that changes the way that the brain functions is detrimental to your performance. I am a fan of meditation. That is what I do to get my mind in focus before playing. Nothing bothers me more that a musician that shows up for a gig and proceeds to drink. It is just bad business to try and play that way. To me Its like drinking in the morning before going to my job. I have left many a band because of this. Partying is best left for after the gig or practice, If you are so inclined.

[caddywumpus]

Sometimes drinking helps to shake loose the stiff energies that come from a long day or a long trip from the previous city (when touring). I find that when I'm relaxed, I play much more intuitively, uninhibited, and with a bigger smile on my face. That can come from a chance to chill out before a set. When that's not possible, a drink or two will do the trick.

...but that's just me. I don't encourage people to drink before a set because usually they drink past the "relaxed" stage and then get stupid. That's when things fall apart.

[mallendion]

My skills are definitely sensitive to, and impeded by, drink and poor diet. (i.e. - too many Coke's early on).

For me to be in a true groove - and not just a chemically imagined one - I need to be so-o-o crystal clear. I need to be able to avoid the unfocussed and wandering thoughts - those which aren't pointed at keeping me in true time, tempo and muscle movement. Even something like thinking too strongly on "I like the way I just grooved that!" can then screw me up for the next measure or two.

Also weird is that when I'm really in the groove it's not like I'm actually "thinking" - I'm more feeling, observing and controlling from a distance. All of these are easily f'd up in me with the presence of chemicals/poor diet/poor sleep.

Ian - I like your drink recommendation of bitters and fizzy water. I've got to try that one.
Bobdadruma - I can see where meditation could be helpful. That's definitely the kind of place the head needs to go.

[Nodiggie]

Just give me two Extra Strength Excedrin and some Power Aid and I'm ready to ROCK! lol

[Phat_Rolls]

Alcohol is bad for playing, for me anyways.

I can have a beer, loosen up and play alright, but more then 1-2 beers and i'll experience negative effects, especially with my stick control. For some reason my grip is slippery and my hands slide up the sticks as I play. My coordination is worse, my timing suffers - it's just not good. Sometimes my band and I will get caught up in a moment and just play for fun while having beers. It's okay once in awhile just for fun, knowing you will gain nothing from that session, but other then that it hurts more then helps.

Personally I believe consuming alcohol - even after a practice session hurts. I feel like it nullifies my practice session... sorta like going to the gym and burning 750 calories only to come home and eat a whole pizza (when you normally wouldn't)

[JakeyD]

One drink is my limit. It can definitely help relax me before I hit the stage. Any more than 1, though, and things start to get sloppy.

[drumbandit]

A couple of beers let's me relax, but too many and I try and play 64th notes and look like an idiot.

[Big_Philly]

I do drink before a gig, but maybe one or two beers and that'll do. My timing gets all sloppy when I'm under the influence. And I'm a "lead by example" kind of guy when I'm put in a position where my behaviour influences people. Like at a gig.

[7DaysToTheWolves]

Beer sounds nice, although I don't drink before any type of show (I have a few years left).

[Drumsword]

I rarely drink anyway, And if I do it's only one. The other night at practice the other guys had a beer and I nursed 1 bud light for 3 hours, (My nipple was soaked). get it? nursing? nevermind.. ;)

But after 15 years of working as a bouncer I see what a few drinks can do to people, You can go from Joe blow to Buddy rich in just a few drinks..lol. (In your own mind, lol).

But no, When I'm playing it's water or tea, if I'm playing and singing it's water and tea with honey and cream. No alcohol.

[mrchattr]

If I am really tense before a show (you know, life wearing me down kind of thing), I will have one beer. Maybe two. Also, if someone wants to buy the band shots during the show, I'll take one...but only one. I'm a big guy, so one shot or two beers won't really have an effect.

However, I'm impressed by the responses in here. I talk to musicians all the time who swear they play better drunk. When I point out that they are just wrong, and that they only think they play better because they are drunk, so everything feels better, they don't buy it.

[Geoff Tipps]

depends if I'm the driver or not.I like to tip a few when I play, usually whiskey.I've been playing a while so i know my limits and save the real drinking to after the show.Or not, sometimes the drink isn't all that appealing.

[Coprock22]

I won't drink more than one or two beers before a gig, if anything at all. I've been in bands where the singer or one of the players gets drunk before taking the stage, especially those gigs where you don't go on til late and you've been at the club for a few hours, and they suck. It's embarrassing. I feel like if we're getting paid to play, then we have an obligation to do our best and should have the will to stay sober until our job is done.

[Philippe]

don't drink and play...!

but seriously, one beer is okay, no problem with that.

[rogue_drummer]

It was cool in high school to get loaded before a football game...marching band percussion section. In college band, a lot of the members were music majors, so they didn't drink before a gig. That's where I learned not to drink before a gig, drink afterwards if you have to, to celebrate fine playing. These people were serious about their music and wanting to do well, so they tied one on AFTER the gig...and man, did we have some great parties to celebrate!!

I've found that water or sweet tea is best when actually performing. I once got a sugar high from drinking sweet tea, and someone said that was the best I'd ever played. Not sure if that is right or not, but I like to keep water inside me since I sweat a lot.

My 2 cents.

[Jon Cable]

I've noticed that my playing improves immensely when I'm drunk; only yesterday I performed my interperation of Bozzios 'Black Page' when I drunkenly stumbled into my Rolands! Fantastic, can't understand why I've only done one gig in 20 years......

[Rotgutt]

2 or 3 is no problem. 5 or 6 is. Your results may vary.

[Ironcobra]

I don't care what anyone says, sipping on a beer while you play helps. Everything I play tends to flow a lot easier, and goes better with the music.

On the other side of the argument, that may simply be the alcohol talking.

[Mediocrefunkybeat]

I don't care what anyone says, sipping on a beer while you play helps. Everything I play tends to flow a lot easier, and goes better with the music.

On the other side of the argument, that may simply be the alcohol talking.

It's the alcohol talking. Trust me.

[m1ck]

I drink a few at band practice and couldn't imagine it being any other way. One too many, however, and I get the same results everyone else has described: overconfident and sloppy playing. (Yes, that's the voice of experience.) But I FEEL like a rockstar!

"So I wash a little late with that fill. Wha's the hurry? Lesh play id again!"

[Joe P]

How about... water? gatorade? Alcohol dehydrates you. You need to be alert and hydrated if you want to perform well...
The only thing a beer could do is help you get over your nervousness and give you a little confidence, but it doesn't help your physical performance.

[crdirtRider856]

John Cable- you simply make too much sense. : ) Alcohol and playing drums just do NOT mix well....Not worth any bit of experimenting in any way....

[jay norem]

Well, I'm a drinker of beer at gigs, it's my drink of choice and I have yet to experience any problems concerning how it affects my playing.
But look, alcohol doesn't make you play better, but it sure as hell could make you play worse. How many times have I seen drunk musicians on the stand? Hopeless...
Some people just can't handle the stuff, and some people can. I don't know why, but I do know that you can never go wrong by staying sober.
I hate it when players get stoned and then come back on the set and now what? Are you guys paying attention? Plus they look all slitty-eyed and they act silly. Guy comes back up to play with his shirt tails hanging out, dropping sheet music on the floor.
A few beers over the course of a night, what's the big deal? But it's a slippery slope as they say. You gotta watch that stuff. If you don't it'll get to you...I've seen it happen to too many people.
Definitely, absolutely stay away from the hard stuff. That liquor will mess you up baby.

[Big_Philly]

I don't care what anyone says, sipping on a beer while you play helps. Everything I play tends to flow a lot easier, and goes better with the music.

On the other side of the argument, that may simply be the alcohol talking.

It's the alcohol talking. Trust me.

Depends on how much beer he was sipping on... Alcohol is a relaxant and when you've only had one beer or so you should still be able to focus.

[Leadfoot]

I've been gigging for 33 years. I spent many of them drinking while playing, and a feew drinking waaaay too much while playing. One day someone showed me a video tape of our band, after that I quit drinking altogether before and while playing, I wish I'd done it sooner. Now I play much better, & don't feel like I've been hit by a truck the morning after the gig. I squeaked by the cops driving home from gigs for years (foolishly) now I don't even worry about it, I just have to be mindful of the other yo-yo's on the road at 3am.

[Mediocrefunkybeat]

Depends on how much beer he was sipping on... Alcohol is a relaxant and when you've only had one beer or so you should still be able to focus.

Well it's technically a depressant. Chemically, one beer probably wouldn't do anything at all other than produce a placebo effect of relaxation - I'd like to see what kind of studies there are out there. I know there are some with regards to driving.

[Dystisis]

2 or 3 is no problem. 5 or 6 is. Your results may vary.
In my experience, this is true. I like to stick to 2 and try and end it there. However, remember that you can drink big amounts and stay fairly aware as long as you spread it over a long time. Even just 3 beers can get most people drunk if they drink it fast enough.

Also... heavier stuff is not too good of an idea when playing. Even in a bandpractice, I wouldn't expect to get much done if you are hitting the heavy stuff (licour, spirits).

[caddywumpus]

Even just 3 beers can get most people drunk if they drink it fast enough.


Wow! I'm soooo glad I'm a lightweight. I'm pretty buzzed after 1 if I drink it fast on an empty stomach!

I find it hard to not drink much when I'm on tour. I find a semi-cute bartender and chat it up with her (it doesn't work with the hot ones). Pretty soon, I'm having free drinks shoved my way, whether I ask or not.

You can learn a lot on this forum, kids! Pay attention...

[k3ng]

The only thing I allow myself to drink during gigs is water. Even sweet stuff just makes my tongue feel funny and I don't like that feeling when playing.

It also helps me to enjoy the beer more after the gig. After you've drowned yourself in tasteless water, any beer just becomes instant magic.

Cheers.

[mrchattr]

The only thing I allow myself to drink during gigs is water. Even sweet stuff just makes my tongue feel funny and I don't like that feeling when playing.

It also helps me to enjoy the beer more after the gig. After you've drowned yourself in tasteless water, any beer just becomes instant magic.

Cheers.

Great. A waterholic. Guys, it's intervention time!!!!!!!!

Seriously, I usually go through a pitcher of water per show, maybe more. I like to grab a Mountain Dew or something between sets, but a lot of times, I don't even do that, or I can't finish it if I do get one (but you're right, the taste of water all night is icky). It's actually amazing that I can drink so much water in a show, because we try to not allow pauses between songs for more than a second, and I start a lot of 'em.

[Mr. Pasquini]

M O D E R A T I O N

That's short for "as much as you can" right?

I don't drink when I play especially out. I have a rule, anyone shows up to practice high, drunk, or otherwise intoxicated they get the hell beat out of them. Anyone shows up to a show with the above ailments, we're playing the set a man short.

I like to get my drink on but there's a time and a place. Performance is not the TIME and if that's when you do it, you can find a PLACE in another band.

[caddywumpus]

That's short for "as much as you can" right?

I don't drink when I play especially out. I have a rule, anyone shows up to practice high, drunk, or otherwise intoxicated they get the hell beat out of them. Anyone shows up to a show with the above ailments, we're playing the set a man short.

I like to get my drink on but there's a time and a place. Performance is not the TIME and if that's when you do it, you can find a PLACE in another band.

...well, as long as you let the members know BEFORE they join the group, then I guess that's a fair policy. There is 1 group I'm in where that is the policy (minus the mindless violence for an infraction), and we're all cool with that. The other groups know that getting stupid drunk isn't okay for the performance, but having drinks, even onstage, is fine.

[rogue_drummer]

Good information here!

Also a reason for not drinking too much alcohol during a gig - may have been mentioned before - is what would happen if a really hot chick walks up to you, or even a simi-cute one, and wants to complement you on your fine drumming and wants to chat? You'd look pretty dumb if you were too stoned or drunk and couldn't carry on a conversation. A great opportunity may have just passed you by! Lol

In fact, that's how I got my first *real* girlfriend - playing drums in the hs drum line....

[Mr. Pasquini]

...well, as long as you let the members know BEFORE they join the group, then I guess that's a fair policy. There is 1 group I'm in where that is the policy (minus the mindless violence for an infraction), and we're all cool with that. The other groups know that getting stupid drunk isn't okay for the performance, but having drinks, even onstage, is fine.

Well if you wanna drink on stage, that's fine. I'm talking about effecting your performance. Drunk as in loss of function.

[Geoff Tipps]

Definitely, absolutely stay away from the hard stuff. That liquor will mess you up baby.



Also... heavier stuff is not too good of an idea when playing. Even in a bandpractice, I wouldn't expect to get much done if you are hitting the heavy stuff (licour, spirits).

Why not? It's delicious, you sip it not guzzle it, and you chase it with lots of water. AND... it makes you feel invincible!

[Pavlos]

I always have a couple before playing, but balance each beer with a water. And I don't guzzle them quickly. Someone mentioned one an hour. That's good advice. Of course it depends on the person too. Everyone has different reactions to alcohol. I just happen to have a high tolerance and weigh 200 lbs (more sometimes!). I also make sure I'm not drinking them on an empty stomach. Gotta get some carbs for the meal before playing.

I find a few help me get over the pre-gig jitters. The downside of course is trips to the can.

[tomgrosset]

It's true that alcohol can help you with your nerves but it actually helps to have some nerves, because it makes you play better and helps you concentrate. That's what I've noticed anyway. And you can't expect to avoid every the situation by having a drink, because there will be times when you can't so it's best to get use to being sober when it comes to performing.

[bonzolead]

Good information here!

Also a reason for not drinking too much alcohol during a gig - may have been mentioned before - is what would happen if a really hot chick walks up to you, or even a simi-cute one, and wants to complement you on your fine drumming and wants to chat? You'd look pretty dumb if you were too stoned or drunk and couldn't carry on a conversation. A great opportunity may have just passed you by! Lol

In fact, that's how I got my first *real* girlfriend - playing drums in the hs drum line....
Were drummers we get all the chicks who worries about conversation LOL

Bonzolead

[rogue_drummer]

LOL That's why I'm back into drumming now...to get chicks!!

[ThisSpitefulSnake]

Why do people even drink? I don't think it tastes good. To look cool? That's gay. So far the only drink I've had that I like is Goldschlager. I would just stick with eating some healthy stuff before playing and drinking lots of water.

[VedranS]

Uhm, people may drink because they think they'll look cool, in fact I'll bet there's a lot of social reasons for people's drinking, but I'd go ahead and say that the primary reason to inbibe any mind altering substance is to have your mind altered....you know, get drunk, stoned, whatever it is...seems obvious.

I hate to admit it, because I know that it would have been a bad idea in any other situation, and this'll seem like a whole bunch of excuses, but the only band I was ever in, I drank before and during every show...sometimes a beer or so, sometimes a number of them...It wasn't to keep me from being nervous, I was never nervous so much as excited, but rather because the band was by objective standards terrible and none of us cared about proffessionalism or striving for musical excelence (I did at first, but the undertow of the band kind of took me with it...). Anyway, we were just a bunch of first year college students who had fun playing for all our friends and their friends in the local college town bars and a couple times in other towns...So, we'd get up there, our friends would heckle us and we'd yell back at them from the stage, get drinks thrown at us, things like that...it was a really good time and people liked to see us, but it hat VERY VERY LITTLE to do with the music we were playing at the time... Anyway, I'm not trying to brag, 'cause I'm not good, but I was still the best musician of the lot and always the soberest, so next to my drunk fumbling bandmates I'd look great and get all the compliments afterwards....good times.

[Lead]

Avoiding alcohol prior to playing a gig is a great habit , that you will thank yourself for years to come . It's the all around smart thing to do . I've experienced other club managers , solicit the band to come their establishment to play . And being sober during these types of encounters , helped my band get future shows .

[bobdadruma]

If you are in a band that drinks at practice and gigs and you are used to drinking and partying with them. My best advice to you is to stay sober during one practice or gig. I think that you will be surprised at what you hear from your Buzzed fellow musicians. Thats how I learned about the effects of drinking and music many years ago. Try this test with your band and you will soon see what I am talking about. I'm a guy who loves to party! I learned that I have to moderate my partying while playing because of this simple test. Try it.

[Vipercussionist]

I've been gigging for 33 years. I spent many of them drinking while playing, and a few drinking waaaay too much while playing. One day someone showed me a video tape of our band, after that I quit drinking altogether before and while playing, I wish I'd done it sooner. Now I play much better, & don't feel like I've been hit by a truck the morning after the gig. I squeaked by the cops driving home from gigs for years (foolishly) now I don't even worry about it, I just have to be mindful of the other yo-yo's on the road at 3am. You hit it right dead on man. I used to drink while playing, heck, why not, booze was free for the band. I can remember a few gigs though where I was so toasted I played badly, and one in particular I was so drunk I couldn't play at ALL!! I had to be carried from the stage, and that's pretty pathetic. That's not the way to be while drumming so I don't bother at all anymore. I don't drink even as a social thing anymore now anyway so it's not like I miss it.

And like Leadfoot said, it's tough enough getting home at night after working all day and playing all night and having to dodge the amateur drunks on the road, I'd hate to do it blurry-eyed.

Keeping hydrated, well that's another story, I ALWAYS have some kind of beverage, just none with alcohol. I have a BIG coffee on the way TO the gig, then I drink water, soda or sometimes juice constantly during the gig. Ever get dehydrated on a gig? It sucks!! It got me all wobbly on my feet and weak as a 5 year old and I still had to pack up and drive home!! So hydrate, Hydrate, HYDRATE!!
.
.

[Ironcobra]

Why do people even drink? I don't think it tastes good. To look cool? That's gay. So far the only drink I've had that I like is Goldschlager. I would just stick with eating some healthy stuff before playing and drinking lots of water.

You're still a little young, I didn't like beer when I was your age. Although, I can't blame you for not liking liquor. I guarantee you'll enjoy a nice cold beer by the time you're 19-20. I just feel bad for the people who drink to be 'cool' and actually dislike the taste. You'll drool over this soon enough...

http://www1.istockphoto.com/file_thumbview_approve/4297991/2/istockphoto_4297991_cold_beer_6.jpg

I'm surprised cigarettes haven't been mentioned. Not that I would ever go near those death sticks.

[tomgrosset]

Having a beer after a gig is actually better for you.

Take a look at this article:
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-491236/A-pint-beer-better-workout-water-say-scientists.html

[aydee]

Nothing quite like a cold post-gig beer.

Specially when compared to the pre-gig brew sloshing in your belly and slowly evaporating toxins into your brain giving you a drowsy buzz and a dull headache. No fun, playing drums with a headache.

I love post gig beers.

[EvanMatthiesen]

Lately ive been gigging with my friends dad's blues rock band, and being a bar band, it is hard to resist a brew when its on the house. Or even worse, playing at parties when your basically forced to drink. I like drinking but with drumming it really tires you out.

I prefer smoking green when it comes to drumming. you really feel the rythym.

[crdirtRider856]

when your basically forced to drink. I
I prefer smoking green when it comes to drumming. you really feel the rythym.

No one can FORCE you to drink man, I d suggest you edit your post... kids here dont need to be reading statements like this..

[Mediocrefunkybeat]

Having a beer after a gig is actually better for you.

Take a look at this article:
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-491236/A-pint-beer-better-workout-water-say-scientists.html

Yeah, but it's from the Daily Mail...

[Diaz]

Well I attempted to play pretty inebriated last night and I couldn't play very well at all. So I think i've tested this theory for myself.

[jjmason777]

Drinking impairs your motor skills, co-ordination, timing, judgement, all of it. That's why they don't let you drink and drive.
If you get drunk before you play, you will suck. Period.

[EvanMatthiesen]

No one can FORCE you to drink man, I d suggest you edit your post... kids here dont need to be reading statements like this..

drinking is way worse for you in almost every aspect than marijuanna.

and of course im not FORCED to drink, i just mean its hard not to at a party gig, when its free, and all your buddies are there.

[mallendion]

You know, considering how many times (Not!) the following is cited as a favorite on DRUMMERWORLD:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rNKfC1nuaow

If you get tired of listening to it at least catch the last 16 seconds for the A-1 ending.

Of course, I think certain music/groups/shows are expected to present a certain lifestyle for their audience - notice the comments. So maybe if that's your target audience ... :-)

[tomgrosset]

Yeah, but it's from the Daily Mail...

You gotta take everything with a grain of salt.

[crdirtRider856]

drinking is way worse for you in almost every aspect than marijuanna.

and of course im not FORCED to drink, i just mean its hard not to at a party gig, when its free, and all your buddies are there.

You missed the point bro...I agree with you, but "smokin the green" isnt exactly "helpful information" to the younger ones here.....Alcohol is bad, but after smokin' green for over 15 years, and leavin it behind, the results speak for themselves= its just not helpfull in ANY way. Took me a long time to realize this, but its true. Hopefully you ll get to this epiphany sooner than I did.

[Rimshot1]

I really love it when another band member turns around to the drummer and says with full conviction, "your timing was out". I just sit there and laugh but if he keeps it up I politely advise him that it was his timing that was out and to the tune of five pints!.
I have trained myself NOT to drink if I am playing a gig. Not only that, I find eating in between quite uncomfortable, it makes me feel bloated. I lose out most times because by the time we finish there is no food left either. :-)

[larryace]

Myself, I don't drink and play. It subtracts from me. I'm sure Bonzo, Moon, Baker, played drunk. Different strokes.

[comic amusement]

Caffeine here.

and that actually helps you play better.

[Spinozalove]

I usually have one beer before a gig while waiting to go on. Never more than one though! I don't think it helps, but I don't think one beer is detrimental for my playing.

[mcbike]

I don't drink at all, especially not while playing. Some people can do it, not me. Most of the time my bandmates are grateful that the drummer is sober and holding it down.

I start drinking water at load in usually 3 glasses before I play. Then I drink a monster energy drink 15 minutes before I play and I take a walk around the block. During the show I drink a glass of water during each break, and usually a vitaminwater/gatorade either before the last set, or after the show. Then I drink like a quart of powerade at mcdonalds after load out.

This is when i'm playing my outside gig with 3 hour long sets... I rarely even have to go to the bathroom, it's amazing!

[Strangelove]

Drinking impairs your motor skills, co-ordination, timing, judgement, all of it. That's why they don't let you drink and drive.
If you get drunk before you play, you will suck. Period.

Agreed. Ever see any drunks dancing? The old adage that drunks have no rythm should be noted by all drummers.

Yes, Bonham got away with it (we know he drank to some extent in concerts and in the studio), but just think how well his timing would have been without it. The same for Moon.

[jer]

My advice: Know your limit, play within it.

(okay, I stole that from the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation, but I feel as though it applies nicely here.)

[ChipJohns]

I think this thread speaks volumes. Each of us is different, and the affects of alcohol on each of us is different.

What is different is that all of us do not have full recognition of what these affects are to us individually. Many of us do, but, not all.

On the other hand (which is the same hand,) each of us must realize this as well. Everyone else is different from me. What works for me may not work for everyone else.

The real proof is in the pudding (and the pudding is a recording.) We are not going to believe, for the most part, what someone else tells us. Do the test. Play, and drink, One drink in between every two songs. See what the affects are on your playing. Does it get better? If so what is the point of diminished returns?

Also, try the same thing with caffeine. Man, I've done this and believe it, after my second dose of caffeine I am looped. Cannot play worth a darn. My coordination is messed up and I cannot keep time to save my life. On the other hand, a few drinks loosens me up. More than this, however, I start getting sloppy and lose control of my volume...

Put up or shut up..! @:-) take the test and report..

[Concrete Pete]

Hey Crew,

I gotta throw in my $0.02-- I think a brew is great before a gig, as it loosens you up. My rule is no more than one drink per hour, and that has worked for me for years. Loose is cool, drunk is stupid.

AFTER a gig, heck yeah, have a beer-- BUT, remember that you have to drive home, and cops pull over people that have drums, amps, etc., etc., in their vehicles.

As far as "doobifiying", naw, I did that years ago. The stuff that's around nowadays is LETHAL OCTANE in my opinion-- I guess I'm too old for that crap.

Cheers,
C. P.

[cnw60]

I agree with all who have posted about having a small amount of alcohol being fine.

I have also found that if the audience gets drunk, our band sounds better.

[arthurk1]

I used to always drink during sets but not anymore. Perhaps one beer before the last set. The band I am in now has top notch, sober players and the bass player bitches about any tempo change and stuff like that so I can't immagine him all mad if I was buzzed. we play 2 hour sets so you get tired. Playing rock at an open stage, I would be drinking for sure, but I am a drinker anyway.

[bonzolead]

The only time alcohol & playing become a problem is when you get behind your kit and you realize there is a lot more drums & cymbals now then there was at the beginning of the night LOL

Seriously a couple(2) drinks is alright but don't. overdo it everybody knows there limits, you can keep climbing that hill but once you go over the top there no going back LOL

when I play I might have a couple of drinks @ the club or bar but I always have a pitcher of water with me when I play water the best thing too drink IMO when jammin' you're bandmates will thank you for it. LOL

Bonzolead

[bonzolead]

I agree with all who have posted about having a small amount of alcohol being fine.

I have also found that if the audience gets drunk, our band sounds better.

I always said that the more you drink (audience) the better we sound and the more we drink (band) the better we think we sound LOL

of course the more you drink the better we look LOL

Bonzolead

[Fiery]

In general, I don't drink more than one drink before playing (that means half a liter of beer or a shot of liquor or any other equivalent) and I very rarely drink anything except water while playing.

But I was mightily pleased some months ago when I drank a bit more before and during rehearsal (the whole band did, it was sort of a rehearsal party) and I managed to get through all the songs wihtout much trouble. It was nowhere near perfect, of course, but it wasn't worse than my talking or walking skills at the time. I took it as a sign of actually becoming a drummer, since for the first few years of my playing, any thought of playing after drinking above the mentioned minimum was an absolute no-no. My coordination and control were bad enough already, even the slightest inebriation meant a complete catastrophe, no thought of pulling off a coherent beat, let alone a whole song.

Edit: Spelling correction.

[Steady Freddy]

I can't think of any job where drinking before of during work is acceptable.

Why would being a musician be any different?

[wy yung]

I do not drink before playing. Many do. I've seen a very high profile player down a bottle of bourbon before a clinic performance!

[CJM]

Sometimes drinking helps to shake loose the stiff energies that come from a long day or a long trip from the previous city (when touring). I find that when I'm relaxed, I play much more intuitively, uninhibited, and with a bigger smile on my face.

yes it's a very fine line you have to tread. When I'm all hyped up on caffeine for the night (after working all day) my nerves sometimes jam up and I drop a beat. A drink on the first break can help relax me. But I have to hold it down or I go to pieces. I find if I drink too much too fast my arm muscles get really tired..back in the day I remember leaning over on my floor tom at the end of the night. We played 5-6 nights a week and the whole band drank quite a bit LOL. No one in my peer group of players drinks like that anymore.

Alcohol does interfere with muscle recovery. I found that out later when i got into long distance bike riding.

[jer]

I can't think of any job where drinking before of during work is acceptable.

Why would being a musician be any different?

The thing that has always amazed me, the higher the paying gig, the more free booze we get. Essentially, the free drinks are coming from our employer for the evening.

[Steady Freddy]

The thing that has always amazed me, the higher the paying gig, the more free booze we get. Essentially, the free drinks are coming from our employer for the evening.

Yeah. Been there done that. I played in a few really rowdy rock bands and we'd party pretty hard on gigs. We just never got any where.

The bands that were more serious about the music and stayed away from drugs and booze did pretty well.

[KnockOut86]

Of course, all in moderation.

The last band I played with our first three shows were sort of rigid, emotionless, and probably boring to the crowd. Fourth show, Halloween show, we did 3 shots a piece before we went on, best show ive ever played, and the crowd definitely responded to our energy.

For us, we just needed to take the edge off and loosen up a bit, and alcohol helped. Of course this doesnt work for everyone, since we were all in college, we had HIGH tolerances, and three shots was just the right amount.

[jon e rotten]

Yeah. Been there done that. I played in a few really rowdy rock bands and we'd party pretty hard on gigs. We just never got any where.

The bands that were more serious about the music and stayed away from drugs and booze did pretty well.


Alot of bands have done alot of drugs and alot of drinking and done pretty well...Rolling Stones, The Beatles, Led Zepplin, The Who..etc. etc.

Now some of them are dead from to much partying and some look like they're dead, but it's hard to argue with their success.

[jer]

Alot of bands have done alot of drugs and alot of drinking and done pretty well...Rolling Stones, The Beatles, Led Zepplin, The Who..etc. etc.

Now some of them are dead from to much partying and some look like they're dead, but it's hard to argue with their success.

You have to recognize that it was a different game back then. With bands and labels doing everything they can to salvage a bottom line these days, it's no surprise that the industry took a shift towards the "safe".

Freddy makes a valid point, even outside his personal experience, bands that don't allow themselves to be distracted by things like drugs or alcohol tend to get further these days.

[con struct]

Having spent a good amount of time in Europe I can tell you that the French, British, Spanish and Italians drink all day, including the musicians, and it doesn't seem to affect them at all when it comes time to hit.
The British drink like fish, but I guess they're used to it. Whenever I was in France there was always a glass of wine in front of me on the table. And so on. It's a cultural thing, I think. Americans go a little overboard about the evils of drinking in my opinion. I've been around booze all my life; it's impossible not to be in this business, and I know what my capacity is for alcohol.
That's the whole point, whether you're a musician or not. Knowing what your capicity is. It's unrealistic to tell young musicians, or young people in general, to never, ever drink alcohol, it's really rather ridiculous. It's also pretty silly to say "Don't get drunk." EVERYBODY is going to get drunk sooner or later. I think it's best if it happens sooner. One really embarassing night and a hangover the next day that makes you wish you could just die is all it takes to be convinced that you never, never, ever exceed your capacity for alcohol. Anyway that's all it took with me. Well, maybe more than one time but I did learn. BUT. I've never in my life been drunk on a gig. Never. When would you find the time to drink that much anyway when you're working?
It wouldn't be a gig for me without a few drinks to accompany the whole experience, but then I'm a drinker. And I don't apologize for that. I always had plenty of work, I never had a reputation for over-drinking and anyway I always enjoyed playing too much to turn any gig into a night on the town.

[RollingStone000]

You have to recognize that it was a different game back then. With bands and labels doing everything they can to salvage a bottom line these days, it's no surprise that the industry took a shift towards the "safe".

Freddy makes a valid point, even outside his personal experience, bands that don't allow themselves to be distracted by things like drugs or alcohol tend to get further these days.

Continuing on that point, a lot of band probably had some certain level of success but the drinking and drugs probably took a toll on the band as a whole, not just the individual musician. Think about it like this, there's one Aerosmith, but there were probably a heaping helping of Aerosmith like bands that did the same thing (booze and drugs) how many of them are around. Biggest thing is just don't take it to an excessive level. Damn I could use a Guinness right now.

[DrumEatDrum]

I love beer.

I love drums.

The two just do NOT mix for me.

[Ironcobra]

Caffeine here.

and that actually helps you play better.

I don't think anyone can criticize that...

[CJM]

Freddy makes a valid point, even outside his personal experience, bands that don't allow themselves to be distracted by things like drugs or alcohol tend to get further these days.

I don't think it was really different back when, either. Plenty of bands started partying prematurely. Think of all the One Hit Wonders. One hit, go to pieces celebrating, infighting and stressing over what comes next. Poof, you're gone.

[Neil]

I have a water for during the set and a couple of banana's during the two intervals. A recent gig, I was hanging around for ages waiting for the other guys to get themselves sorted so thought I'd have a Cuba Libre, worst gig I ever played in my opinion, I just didn't seem to be able think properly my mind kept wandering...so since then I'll be sticking with water and 'nana's

Neil

[RogerLudwig]

Dr. Pepper or soda water...I can't drink alcohol and stay focused.

[nickg]

if you can't stay sober while you're gigging then stay home.

[Phildas]

I don't drink alcohol at all. The stuff is nasty!
Same goes for drugs and smoking.
I must be one of the few in the West that can say "I have never been drunk in my life" !

I find that the power of music and drumming alone gives me my kicks i need and relaxes me.
A short meditation is good too before gigs, to be focused yet relaxed, ready to give your best!

Also during the gig I drink water infused with an ayurvedic herb (medicinal herb from India, which I bring back when there) that is great for avoiding cramps and staying hydrated.

Aum Namah Shivaya

Phildas

[Martinloo]

I never ever take alcohol...Hard Drink can damage your lungs so be careful and avoid HD and take Soft Drink. :)

[ChipJohns]

I can't think of any job where drinking before of during work is acceptable.

Why would being a musician be any different?

How about PR people for big business. They schmooze clients. They are on the job and the take in alcohol. Actually part of their job to do so.. Granted the smarter ones do so in moderation. So, here is at least one job (and we are talking Fortune 100 Companies) where an employer doesn't mind their employee drinking alcohol on the job...

So there is at least one job! I could think of quite a few more but won't take the space here!

One more is, well, music. It IS considered acceptable, and I don't know of any club owners that would frown if they saw a member of the band having a drink.

[Rascul]

Alot of bands have done alot of drugs and alot of drinking and done pretty well...Rolling Stones, The Beatles, Led Zepplin, The Who..etc. etc.

Now some of them are dead from to much partying and some look like they're dead, but it's hard to argue with their success.

Alcohol and drugs might make for inspired songwriting, but it is VERY clear whether anyone of any of those bands have been drinking while on stage - it always sucks. By the way, for me the best albums of those bands have been written and recorded completely sober. Moreover, for all these bands, drugs and alcohol have in one way or another been their undoing. So yeah, being amongst spirits (ha ha) while writing or recording your album might have its benefits, but in the long run it'll break you down. Moreover, for us mortals alcohol usually has the effect of convincing yourself that your playing is great, while anyone in the audience thinks you're an idiot.

I think it's pretty simple, just don't drink and play. One beer, maybe two, that'll make little difference, but in general it doesn't mix.

[Eggman]

I agree with Rascul. I've always been of the opinion that great bands are great despite their alcohol and drug abuses, not because of it.

For me personally, I don't usually drink at all at gigs. Especially for more difficult prog/jazz stuff, I need a perfectly clear head. When playing with a cover band where the songs are simpler, I might have a drink or two over the course of the whole night, but any more than that and it will start to adversely affect my playing.

I know some people who get really nervous on stage, and a drink or two helps them relax and actually play better. Whatever works for you, I guess!

[toddy]

mmh, i don't personally but i do play with people who like to drink/consume drugs before gigs though. i've tried to get them to calm down a bit though, it really isn't needed at all, and imo it just makes them play worse.

i'd much rather get crunk after the set.

[sqadan]

I save the beer for AFTER the show... water only on stage for me. I find drinking booze on stage to be incredibly unprofessional.

[BigSteve]

Maybe an occasional beer for me at a gig. Mostly water, one of those 5 hour energy drinks for a long night. Two years ago I played a New Years Eve gig, the band was "set up" through out the night with shots of Tequila and beer. I didn't feel it until we loaded out and I drove home....I was $hit faced. Not a good situation at 2:30 in the morning while driving. I pulled over at a rest stop and chilled for awhile before I went the rest of the way home. Never again! I felt pretty foolish for being that stupid.

[LinearDrummer]

I love beer.

I love drums.

The two just do NOT mix for me.

Same here.

I treat showtime like a workout...no greasy foods, eating fruits and drinking alot of gatorade.

Afterwards tho beer and tequila shots go down like grape juice!

[MisterMixelpix]

I can't really play drunk, but anyone claiming that bands today are stone sober is just crazy. Let's not forget The Rev.

[Florian]

My .02 here. Im a linesman in the AHL as well as a drummer in a regionally touring band. As a band we do a shot of our favorite 1 hour before a gig to get our heads together in the greenroom or the trailer. There is always loads of booze/beer available for free, but it is too easy to get carried away with it. People are paying their hard earned cash to see you, why would you want to disappoint them with mediocre playing or run the risk of being labelled a bunch of drunks/bad performers. We do save the partying to afterward as a sort of reward for work well done. The audience alone is typically enough to get your juices and adrenaline going. How does this all work back to the AHL stuff? Our Director of Officials once told me (he was an ex-NHL guy) that to counter the effects of the adrenaline and energy you get from skating (in this case drumming) hard, that two beers or drinks after a game was necessary. Not enough to get you buzzed, but enough to at least allow a solid nights sleep.

best to all!


F

[Pocket-full-of-gold]

I'll have a few beers over the course of the night. There's a big difference between drinking and getting drunk that's often being overlooked in this thread IMHO.

[Strangelove]

Ever watched drunks (try to) dance? That's what alcohol does to your rythm and coordination.

[jon e rotten]

I'll have a few beers over the course of the night. There's a big difference between drinking and getting drunk that's often being overlooked in this thread IMHO.

I'm with you on this one. I' m starting to think I exist in an alternate universe. I understand if you're playing really demanding music, but you can't have a few drinks and play Brown Eyed Girl?

[Scorched]

The stuff I play is physically and mentally demanding for me atm so getting drunk or stoned or whatever before a gig is a big no no. The most I've drank before a gig was 1 pint about 2 hours before we were on, and I wasn't ever sure if that was a great idea.

[Up2Speed]

I never ever take alcohol...Hard Drink can damage your lungs so be careful and avoid HD and take Soft Drink. :)


Damage your lungs???????????????????????????

[Up2Speed]

Alchohol does not work for me at all while playing. That's for the bass player.......:-)

[chathamight]

don't get plastered for gigs.

if not for screwing up the tunes, or coming off as a jerk to chicks, then don't do it because of your equipment you saved so hard to acquire.

i love my gear. if you're on a bill with three other bands and people are sharing equipment, it's hard enough to keep track of everything sober. get wasted and you're bound to forget/lose something. i'm not willing to take that chance...

play an awesome show, pack up all your stuff in the ride, make sure you and your bandmates/buddies have a safe way home from the gig, THEN do what you like...

[Nick G.]

ive been at a party once were there was a drum kit, i wasnt wasted but i wasnt sober either

i hated the feeling, it just didnt feel right


i wont be drinking before i play anytime soon :D
or if i did it would be a nice sprite or innocent smoothie :P

[Pollyanna]

I'll have a few beers over the course of the night. There's a big difference between drinking and getting drunk that's often being overlooked in this thread IMHO.

Yup. It depends on a lot of things. Booze in any quantity does affect coordination. Fact. However, nervousness can affect coordination too. A moderate amount of booze can act as a relaxant and improve the performance of some players who are prone to nerves.

In the old days I would be very intense before gigs. Of course I always had the nonchalant face on but inside I'd be wired, especially in venues I'd not played in before. Having a drink before playing in a new venue was a way of settling into the vibe of the place, just settling down. I think it helped rather than hindered.

The ideal would have been a lack of nerves and no alcohol but the ideal doesn't seem too common in this life. I admit to also sometimes using other things before gigs, some of which were worse for my playing (i.e. I experimented to see what would help with my nervousness) and a couple of things that definitely improved my playing - not just to my ears, but based on feedback from our regulars.

For some reason, in public conversations many people fail to distinguish between use and abuse of chemicals (or anything, for that matter), which I find odd since there's a vast chasm between use and abuse. It's as blind as not being able to tell the difference between a Chihuahua and a Great Dane.

[Malti]

I can't drink and drum at all. Period.

[Pollyanna]

I can't drink and drum at all. Period.

Why not, Malti? What happens?

[Funky Crêpe]

Thought I might throw this in.....whenever slash had a gig, over the course of the day he would drink 1 gallon of vodka.......I could'nt do that in a month.

was he just exceptionally talented? Don't think so, imo you can get used to it....god knows he did

[MisterMixelpix]

Booze? Good!

Drums? Good!

[yesdog]

I don't drink and drum, if I have one beer it throws me off. Besides for me playing music is a high in its self. There is nothing better than a cold beer after the show.

[larryace]

Why not, Malti? What happens?

Her drumsticks get caught in her mouth apparently...

[Malti]

Why not, Malti? What happens?

I'm taking an antidepressant thant intensifies the effect of alcohol. The other night I had a glass of Chardonnay and a nonalcoholic beer. You'd have thought I was dropping Jaeger Bombs all night. On the bright side, I never get hangovers and I'm a really cheap date!!

[eamesuser]

I think it is a personal thing,And I have known some players that play worse sober,only a couple,but they do exist.I have only played really drunk on a couple of occassions,with a good buzz a couple of times.I found that even being buzzed on alchohol I would loose my feel.But that is me.When I hit my thirties I found that even one beer would make me more tired than if I had none.I played a gig at a starbucks where they plyed us with multiple shots of expresso,we finished a 45 minute set in under 30 minutes.

[spantney]

I used to drink a hell of a lot from about the age of 16. I'm almost 22 now and last year I decided to pretty much give alcohol up. I still have the VERY occassional tipple (I've had 3 beers so far this year!). Not only have I lost a stone and a half in weight since I gave up alcohol, I actually feel a hell of a lot better health wise and my drumming is so much better now. My band has kind of a rule that we won't drink on the day of a gig although some of the other band members will have a drink after we've done our set and to be honest I think for me and my band thats the best formula for a sucessful performance.

On the other hand, a good friend of mine is in a band where the guitarist is quite notorious for drinking about a crate of beer before during and after the set and they are awesome live lol!

[larryace]

I played a gig at a starbucks where they plyed us with multiple shots of expresso,we finished a 45 minute set in under 30 minutes.

hahaha, right? There's a lot to be said for a guy who can hold tempos where they should be in spite of adrenalin, fatigue, excitement, boredom, alcohol, caffeine, rushing musicians, dragging musicians, etc. without a metronome. I would think it's akin to having perfect pitch... Perfect Tempo. Now there's a goal, right?

[MisterMixelpix]

I'm going to reiterate that some people in here are either "two beer queers" or lack the self control necessary to land somewhere between "stone sober" and "fall on your @$$ drunk".

At the bars I worked at, bands constantly got drinks from the crowd and only in one instance did it screw up the show at all.

[stevo]

Here is my two cents: It's kind of like shooting pool for me. I have found there is a point between a couple and a "few" where I seem to be at a peak. But once I hit that one drink, I start sinking fast. I have been doing this for many many years. And I think that if I keep it at about three beers before starting, and one per set... I am ok. But again, if I'm not careful, I hit that point, and I suck. I find mostly in my feet. I hit a point where I just lose my ability to execute the notes.

[fat in the middle]

I quit drinking full stop 14 years ago. I was coming home from the gig with 1/2 as much money because of the bar tab. I couldn't make a living otherwise. I still don't touch the stuff, simply because it isn't worth the money/ hangover and emotional cloud. I get so much more done because of it, never worry about driving etc..

[Pollyanna]

I'm taking an antidepressant thant intensifies the effect of alcohol. The other night I had a glass of Chardonnay and a nonalcoholic beer. You'd have thought I was dropping Jaeger Bombs all night. On the bright side, I never get hangovers and I'm a really cheap date!!

:) It all makes perfect sense to me. Those nonalcoholic beers are a menace!

I can't remember issues with booze when I was on ADs, but I'm such a cheap drunk I might not have been able to tell the difference. Two drinks and I'm dodgy, so I only have one before playing to loosen up a little. In the old days I was less cautious ...


I'm going to reiterate that some people in here are either "two beer queers" or lack the self control necessary to land somewhere between "stone sober" and "fall on your @$$ drunk".

LOL. Now the world is making sense. Musicians - and especially drummers - have a massive rep for hellraising yet the responses so far make me wonder if we are one big Sunday school. Having trouble reconciling things. Are we an especially serious-minded bunch or susceptible to alcohol or are the wild things here staying under the radar?

It should be said that I have known some queer people who can really put it away!


Here is my two cents: It's kind of like shooting pool for me. I have found there is a point between a couple and a "few" where I seem to be at a peak. But once I hit that one drink, I start sinking fast. I have been doing this for many many years. And I think that if I keep it at about three beers before starting, and one per set... I am ok. But again, if I'm not careful, I hit that point, and I suck.

In the old days, the more drunk I was the better I got at pool. I only played occasionally and basically couldn't play for nuts normally but when I was blotto I was deadly.

It never worked for me with drumming, but another intoxicant I indulged in before a gig helped my playing so amazingly I resolved not to do it again. I could see where things would have ended up ...

[MisterMixelpix]

I quit drinking full stop 14 years ago. I was coming home from the gig with 1/2 as much money because of the bar tab. I couldn't make a living otherwise. I still don't touch the stuff, simply because it isn't worth the money/ hangover and emotional cloud. I get so much more done because of it, never worry about driving etc..

You know what's cool? Having a couple drinks, relaxing, and coming home without being sh!tfaced.

I still don't get why people think the only options are pure sobriety or absolutely insane alcoholism. It's like saying "I don't eat ice cream. I got sick of spending $500 a week on Haagen Daz and weighing 450 pounds."

[Ian Williams]

Nothing wrong at all.
Having a couple of beer pints or cups of wine......Hey! who's a got a beer?

[A-customs]

I drink a beer or 2 , sip lightly,but durring play water bottles....Then after the show i love relaxing with a nice cold one........

[dairyairman]

my personal rule is no more than one beer before the show, and preferably not sooner than an hour before we go on. alcohol does negatively affect my playing as well as my ability to focus on where we are in the songs and what comes next. but sometimes the fans start buying us shots and then everything is out the window and the show becomes a big free for all!

i like to drink my share after the show, but by then i usually have to dismantle everything and get it out of the place. plus the bar is trying to shut down, so it's hard to get much more than a beer or two.

the lack of beer doesn't bother me too much though because the way i figure it i'm being paid to provide entertainment and to get OTHER people to drink. the show is not about me and my drinking.

[PAWNJOB]

You mean drinking and playing drums don't go hand in hand? Ha. I love to drink while I play, I find it loosens me up a little. I don't however think it's a good idea to get smashed and try to have a productive practice or a good show. But that being said, you can usually catch me playing w/ a cold one. Cheers!

[Fiery]

You know what's cool? Having a couple drinks, relaxing, and coming home without being sh!tfaced.

I still don't get why people think the only options are pure sobriety or absolutely insane alcoholism. It's like saying "I don't eat ice cream. I got sick of spending $500 a week on Haagen Daz and weighing 450 pounds."
Have you ever heard of such a thing as an "addictive personality"? There's (quite a few) people who, upon consuming a couple of drinks, aren't capable of stopping until they become, as you described it, "sh!tfaced".

[Pkaneps]

I just played my first show with my new band, and I had a beer, then I got nervous because the drummer in the band before us was way better than I am, so I had another, and that really calmed me down and my playing was perfect.

My "hey the song is gonna end" alarm however, was broken, and i missed pretty important stops in two of our songs...not a huge deal, nobody in the crowd noticed, I don't even think our guitarist did...

but I did, and I don't think I'll drink before another show.

[EWGroove]

Learned from former Denver drum shop owner (and current Sabian field rep) Bob Rupp, to bypass the beers while on the bandstand. "Drummers need to stay fast", he would say. Makes sense to me, particularly here at higher altitude. Couple that w/an outdoor show in moderate heat, and one is asking for trouble. Water and/or a sports beverage is all I'll drink while gigging.

[Meat the beat]

I remember getting all Rock n roll before a late gig one night years ago, and having half a bottle of `jack" before the show... not a good idea... I was rubbish!!! Never again I said, and thats the way its stayed. But i do admire these guys that can drink & play well!! 2 skills at once!!!

I usually have to drive my gear home anyway...

[wordword]

Lol i'm not here advertising drugs or anything, but drugs and music have been married for like....ever

This isn't always the case, and a lot of musicians are better for not (at least not becoming addicts). thankfully. if you had to do drugs to be a good musician, i think a lot of people would object to the greatness we call music!

[Pkaneps]

I just got the recording of our band playing the other night, and now that I can hear everything, I really played pretty badly, so there will be no more drinking before shows. Before practice/songwriting, maybe.

[Arrold]

I go through bottles and bottles of water while I practice and perform. When I'm practicing, I like to count out loud a lot and this really dries out the mouth when combined with more intense playing. When I'm performing, the nerves and the energy I like to play with dries me out, so I need my water.

I'm 18 so I can't buy a drink, but I can only imagine the physical and mental affect it would have on me based on other experiences. It's like I never drink... I'm an American high schooler about to go to college. But as far as playing, I'll probably never drink because of the affect it would have on me. Even if I had the option of a Coke or an energy drink... I'll stick to my water.

[JT1]

Mmmm delicious frosty beer, I could go for one right now who wants to join me?

Well I usually have one before the show providing I've had plenty to eat that day. But I will also say that I am a participator in drinking water at gigs. It is the sensible thing to do even if it is the only sensible thing we do.