safer safest spaces pt. 1

there are an increasing number of bands in the past few decades who have chosen to play only all ages shows with the argument that there should be no age limit for enjoying live music. I wholeheartedly agree with this sentiment and try to abide by it between all the groups I've played with over the years - with only a few exceptions. These rules are usually put in place so that a venue may ensure that they are within the limit of their liquor license. In turn, a common response is the establishment of "underground" venues (most times quite literally) which don't concern themselves with underage drinking or whether or not a touring band can draw "heads". For myself and many others, this is the optimum setting for certain performances, not to say that I haven't enjoyed any 18+ or 21+ venue shows.. But more often than not I am conscious of some hindering aspect of the age restraint. As I get older it happens less frequently but when I became of age, I can recall many instances when my thoughts would dwell on the fact that someone whose life could've been changed by a performance- wasn't there, because of how old they were. I can say that I've personally been drawn to a community that shares a similar ethos in and around the Boston area, regionally, nationally and internationally. Though I don't find it as important to profess these beliefs as much as simply standing by them, I can say that figureheads such as Ian MacKaye have helped draw me closer to a number of great people. In many ways the internet has helped me empathize with many people, whom I wouldn't normally on a daily basis. It's exposed me to new people, places, thoughts, and ideas. Though the ability behind words often breeds ignorance (see: youtube.com), I believe that this is an important example to learn from.

let the printing commence

<3 long arm staplers

collating can be fun