It must have something to do with irrepressible instincts and stuff, though. Bringing out the animal inside etc.

I was interested in this thread because I know of an open mike night in Brighton called Howling at the Moon. It was very good and used to be at the Full Moon pub, which was now finished hosting it (perhaps in order to invest in very spindly, uncomfortable bar stools and paint in sick colours and charge nine quid for orange juice - not that that ever happens in Brighton) and I don't know what happened to it. I'm quite sure something similar has now started in another pub, still hosted by Paul Stones, who makes the night fun on his own, even if everyone that got up was crap (which I haven't seen yet). If oyu want me to put you in contact with him, just ask me to.