Agree, olddude, that's just plain RUDE. You kind of expect it in sessions and at local open mic events in pubs etc, but unfortunately it seems to be spreading everywhere. The last few medium-name gigs I've been to have been spoiled by people nattering away in the crowd, oblivious to the music. Except at the last Fairport convention gig I went to...they seem to attract an audience that actually wants to listen.