BandsInTown helps locate live performances

In a recent article. we discussed the benefits of seeing a live performance. Since then, I’ve discovered something that makes locating a live performance much easier.

BandsInTown allows you to check what live musical performances are coming soon to your area. If you give it some insights into your listening habits, it can even tailor the list to show only those groups similar to your tastes. If you see something you like, you can purchase tickets immediately – while you have the information handy.

Available via the web and as an iPhone application, BandsInTown is a great idea in either format…but where it really shines is as a portable application. Away from home on business? On vacation and find yourself with a free evening? Just fire up BandsInTown, plug in your location (or allow it to reference your GPS coordinates if you wish), and you’ll get a nice list of your live music performance options. If you want to “thin the herd” a bit, you can allow the application to peruse the music files on your iPhone; it quickly narrows the list to only those performers whose styles align with your preferences.

My “Two-Minute Takeaway” on BandsInTown

Pros

Easy to use
Provides a great selection of performances
Ability to use current location for best results
Distance to search from current location is customizable
Ability to use your music library (if you let it) to narrow choices for you
Can buy tickets immediately if you choose
Can track artists/groups

Cons

Privacy concerns
Apparently no classical venues/performances at this point

Bottom Line

I don’t keep a lot of music on my iPhone, as most of my music still resides on my original iPod. As such, results will almost certainly be better with a better set of inputs for BandsInTown to consider. Even with limited inputs, it’s impressive on the iPhone, and the website is very nice, too. Privacy concerns can be reduced by limiting access to your music library (via iTunes, Pandora, or Last.fm) and/or exact location. If you’re looking for a live performance to boost your mood, pick up technique, or just absorb the music, BandsInTown may be just the ticket.

Keep playing,
Mark