Its Not Just A Good Pub Guide

This could turn out to be one of those websites which starts out with good intentions but either doesn't really get off the ground or briefly flourishes before withering due to lack of interest. But if Barlines can help by giving it the merest whiff of publicity, then that is what Barlines will do.

The site, www.themusoguide.com, aims to provide practical information to the travelling musician (which, let's face it, is what most musicians are) regarding all those things which might just enhance that often wearisome life. That means places to eat and drink, interesting local activities for days off, musician-friendly lodgings, lift-sharing and gig-swapping opportunities - anything which, as the website's founders say, 'helps take the potential headache out of musician's Russian Roulette'.

It sounds like a great idea. After all, not every gig is going to be in an easily accessed city-centre venue with a choice of nearby amenities. But even in some of the smarter provincial towns, how much nicer to know there's a characterful local establishment serving proper grub at a good price, rather than having to rely on the holy trinity of Wetherspoons, Pizza Express and Cafe Rouge (though god knows there are times when they shine like beacons in the gloom). But the main thing is that the information is provided by musicians themselves meaning that the recommendations should have the particular concerns of the muso at heart.

Endearingly, the webmasters are keen that the site is for recommendations only and not a forum for moaning and bitching. Let's hope that the general community of musicians can keep its almost pathological inclination for mickey-taking in check.