neuro...2b honest with U I session (myself aloneas a guitarist or frontman) wt alot of cari makan bands including jazz bands, pop /rock, countr, world and oldies bands. I also do one man accoustic as well as 3 pc strollers...nie $$$ on the side while enjoying playing music coz It's really hard making a living here...of course SOT is the main project for all of us right now.
Lobangs...like any other kind of business..networking. First of all if U in a band try to be as versatile as possible. Build up the repertiore etc. I HATED playing country previously but when U look at it. In fact Im considered quite low profile amongs the musos who normally network & hang out a fair bit...I'm more of a "go down, play gig then balik kampong kinda guy).
Reputation for punctuality, sensible dressing (to suit gig), homework and general behavior & character will be remembered by agents / organisers and band leaders etc. I may not be the best guitar player around but I make sure who ever hires me on the night...I will be well prepared for the gig (unless it's the jazz / orchestra gigs - open score & band leader counts in 1,2,3...). 8)
For newbies...try to play as much as posible to gain expirience and confidence to work a crowd.
hope I didnt ramble too much neuro bro... my 2 cents worth on how I got my lobangs