Re: Bar/Club stage volume level?!?!
Since I am the first point of contact for an owner who feels the band is too loud, I have no problem talking to the band and laying down some sandbox rules. They don't always follow up, but then they typically are not asked back, and I have the choice to mix them or not next time. One memorable room I mixed was in the basement of an older church, used now by our local Arts school for shows promoted / booked by Afton Live. Think concrete block room, concrete floor, wood ceilings and six to ten bands, all who feel they have to play on 11 to get their tone. I am given, by Afton, and those who are in charge of the room - final say in all things audio. I keep it pro, and let them know that I hold the power to make or break them. (like they really give a shit) but it does give them a boundary that, once crossed, I leave the rest to them, without a foh mix - faders down - play off the amps and try to be heard vocally. These bands will have very short careers in the local scene due to their lack of understanding that volume never equates to talent, their loss of hearing, and complete disregard for club owners needs / wants. More often than not, they'll comply because I can be a real prick if needed, in a tactful - turn your shit down, kinda way. I win the owners respect as soon as I walk in. I'm there to make the acts sound their best and shape those young minds into a focused world view.
