Jeff my man, it sounds like you've got it all figured out already. If you were doing this for a living and you had to play note for note to put a cheesburger on the table, well that's one thing. But you, like me, do this for fun, spiritual growth, therapy, any reason BUT for the cash. (Of course getting some cash for playing ain't too shabby, either). Under those circumstances, if it ain't fun, why do it?
As for your Friday night crew, go play out! What have you got to lose? I've certainly seen bands many times in bars, at parties, festivals, benefits, etc. that I found far less interesting and enjoyable than youse guys. IMHO each hour of playing with others is equal to 10 hours of playing by yourself, and each hour of playing out is equal to 10 hours in the studio. Tell 'em I said go for it.
Of course if you ever want to relocate and start doing the dead improv thing (NOT note for note) c'mon out west. I'll buy the cheeseburgers (and maybe a little sushi, too).
Bill, tgo
(Message edited by lbpesq on March 13, 2006)