Danny,

I agree with all of your replies to my observations. I should have added that I don't AGREE with the performance philosophy of playing loud "just because".

In the past some of my bandmates have actually stated that they played loud for the reasons stated above. Like you, I accept it as their opinion, but not as absolute truth.

(FWIW, This is one reason why I am not currently in a live band even though there is plenty of opportunity to do so. )