Music to my ears, and my ears alone

P1000863In my eyes (or ears) music is the most important aspect of creating a bar atmosphere. It can be the reason for a group going into a place or the reason for staying for that extra beer. It’s a conversation starter or memory transportation to another time and place; I don’t think enough emphasis can be put on hearing a good song! There should be no less effort made with the music you play than what drinks are on your menu.

I have to admit to being a bit of a musical bigot – the thought of discovering an unreleased Nick Drake track is my idea of a good time but I like to think I keep an open mind. It’s just such a disappointment when you find a nice place to drink only to then have it ruined by some 80’s discotheque blaring out and assaulting all of your senses.

On the flipside, there should be a degree of respect when dealing with a playlist – no requests for Anthrax while I’m in the middle of a space funk odyssey please. Also, understanding the swing and flow of the music is essential as it guides the energy within the bar.

Not being afraid to carve a niche is something I value greatly-if the first thing you do when you go into a bar is look for a juke box or pause in every conversation to work out the current tune, you know what I’m talking about.