…preeminent art rock band, “anyone can play guitar,” and anyone who can click a mouse (and has a bit of free time to peruse some tutorials) can sequence themselves a backing band. Bars, clubs and coffee shops are always willing to hire local bands, even those without a fan-base (or talent).

So what exactly is a band? Generally, a rock band consists of a drummer, a bassist a guitarist or two and a singer. Synthesizers, horns, tambourines, violins and other instruments can be thrown into the mix, also. Just as the way people are being introduced to music is evolving, so too is the definition of a band. There are bands with as few as two members (Xiu Xiu), there are bands that don't sing (Mogwai), there are bands that can't sing (Moldy Peaches), there are bands that consist mostly of machines (Aphex Twin) and bands that sound more like white noise (Black Dice).

Essentially, all you need to do to be considered a band is to make music (or something resembling music) and give yourself a name. Consider the band's name as a “doing business as” for musicians – for example, Richard Melville Hall (better known as “Moby”) or Brian Warner (aka “Marilyn Manson”).

No matter how many flickering screens and twittering diversions we invent to distract ourselves in the digital age, humanity's awe and visceral appreciation of performed music will never wane. The demand for venues to hire local bands will always be high and the allure to create and witness music will always be irresistible.