This type of thing is very important to most, including also myself. Of course I would survive without noise gigs, sure, but the gatherings of likeminded, that happens frequently enough, but NOT all the time, is good.
At least to me it feels that when you got month or two between seeing people, you actually got things to discuss. I ain't the type of guy sitting daily for coffee, or friends couch, talking whatever. No thanks. It is more like people discussing what is happening, planning, even sort of brainstorming. Perhaps invitations to collaborate or whatever. Then everybody goes on their own ways. Often somewhat vitalized by idea that there is actually small interests to what they do. Someone asked for compilation. Someone asked if planning any gigs. Someone talking about the best Merzbow CD you just finally managed to get. Sometimes absolutely nerdy stuff. Sometimes more serious. Yet, at least I can't take the non-stop social scene thing at all. There has to be the balance of when you talk and when you do. And if nothing gets done, what is there to talk about? It's not some sort of obligation, of course, but it would feel weird if I'd go to gig, someone asks what's happening lately and I would be like "nothing...". It is without exception, when I return from noise gig, back home, there is intense will to create, play and record. Plan things and execute things. Yet, the certain amount of loneliness or at least being alone is mandatory to even get started anything worth doing. No point in jamming for fun, hah..
