I was fortunate to grow up in a wealthy mining town in the Arctic. Because of shift work at the mine there were people on days off, and thus partying, seven days a week. As a result, the local bar was packed every night. They would bring in bands from the south, and every week there would be a different, excellent band. I don’t mean guys that just play for fun, these were serious, talented, professional musicians with lights and everything.
Trips south would mean going to the best rock bars in Edmonton, Calgary, and Vancouver to see other amazing bands. For the most part these were bands that were just one big break from being the next Rush, Iron Maiden or Van Halen.
Although there are still rock bars there are fewer of them, the music has changed, and the audience certainly has changed. It’s sad that kids today are happy with the current state of music and will never get to experience the awesomeness of live, talented people playing awesome music.