JapanAxe

The setup described by the OP is not entirely without precedent in my experience. I can think of 2 ensembles that ran a similar setup - neither: (1) 6-piece functions band that put their electronic drums through a second PA, with a pair of cabs sitting either side of the drummer. That band was so loud that that the guitarist was obliged to run two 100W half-stacks in order to compete. (2) Rock covers duo consisting of a singing guitarist and a singing bass player. Instead of backline amps they ran their instruments through amp simulators into a PA behind them. I think their backing tracks went through both PAs. I considered both to be nuts, just as I do the OP's band leader.

I used some white rub-down dots from a US eBay seller on one particularly troublesome instrument. Unfortunately they did start to rub off after a while. I thought about trying one of these, but never got round to it!

I regularly play a 10-midnight spot at an O'Neill's pub with a 4in-high stage. If any punter tries to get up with the band, a bouncer quickly gets them shifted. This is very much appreciated!

Bought a cable from Mark, arrived well-packed and as swiftly as one could imagine.

Going to visit Chester actually. Dawsons and Back Alley Music a-callin'!

The guitars are in Manchester and (possibly) Worcester!

Sadly a GAS-fuelled guitar-buying trip has morphed into a family visit and a shop-a-thon for Mrs Axe, so I'm afraid I'm out I'll still be buying at least one geetar though!

^^ Thanks @warwickhunt, very comprehensive overview

Sunday 8th April near Taunton. It does sound good doesn't it!

There's a conspiracy between all the gear manufacturers to stop the tablets becoming widely available. They've also conned you into believing that the earth is spherical.

Will it be making an appearance at the SW Bass Bash?

Years ago I used to get quit ebad stage fright when it came time for me to play a guitar solo. Now I get more apprehensive about getting to the venue on time, getting access, parking etc than I ever do about playing. I play both guitar and bass btw, it's not just about being able to hide at the back!

I do this with my 'no.2' band, in that I am first call out of 3 bass players for any gigs that come in. This involves being 100% on top of each and every diary involved, i.e. my own calendar (synched between all my devices) and those of the no.1 and no.2 bands. So far, so good.

I thought you were a Les Dawson tribute act.

You only got 5p because I had no copper coins.

So that was you? Wish I hadn't wasted my 5p now...

I don't mind 'em, as long as you don't call them 'Jimaroquai'...

+1 to MT Power Drum Kit

It's bad enough adding up the cost of the kit that I stick in my boot when I go to play a gig!

Maybe the kid has been instructed not to be too pushy and has taken it to heart. I can't understand why you didn't ask to have a look and a try-out.

I can see kit is mic'd up - what other instruments were going through the PA?