Wow. Bonnie got one going here. Nice to see UB Dan weighing in; now if he can get over this cookie business, maybe he'll join the Cat.

Several themes run through this discussion: 1. If music is your job, you shouldn't get wasted while you're working (Makes sense for all the other jobs too). 2. If you're getting wasted on the job, you're letting other people carry you and that's not fair to your coworkers (band) or customers (audience). 3. Any addiction is a terrible thing.

That being said, it also seems a number of folks are carrying their preconceived notions regarding acceptable levels of behavior, and, I'm getting the sense that notions outside their own are NOT acceptable. I can certaintly understand the loathing to work with a drunk (incompetent). However, having a couple of drinks with the audience (and participatory toasts) doesn't seem incredibly wrong to me. I would hate to be JUDGED as inconsiderate, incompetent or in any other way because of that. I don't believe we should be so quick to judge a group that "seems to have a good buzz." Could it be part of the routine? Am I a pedophile becuase I sing "As I Roved Out?" I think not.

For us, we respond according to our crowd. If they're drinking, we'll have our own; otherwise not.

Another aspect to consider during performance is when do you have time to drink? After we kick into the first set, many is the time I don't get back to my pint until Finnegan's wake at the end. There's just no time.

If you drink, drink to moderation, keep your wits about you and (Dan) your guitar tuned (You should check out that b string thread). Be not quick to judge.

Peace.