Pub landlords/ladies are like farmers, they never say that business is good. TBF things might be tough, but never to the extent that they make out. The real problem is that when they start talking down the state of play, it almost becomes a self fulfilling prophecy. If people go to the venue because of the music, reducing it, or messing with a proven formula, will actually reduce their footfall. Venues have been getting away with murder when it comes to the band’s fee, it’s still the same today as it was 12+ years ago, but they’ll still claim it’s too expensive .