I too am lost regarding the Shoegaze style. But my first question is - how old are you? I think it would be easier for a younger inexperienced person to find a band than an older person. MY first bands were mainly formed with friends and friends of friends, but that was back in the 60s when bands were expected to be bad and inexperienced. We all kind of grew and improved our skills together.

Today I might suggest that you check the bulletin boards of your local music shops, especially those where people of similar musical tastes frequent. Also, check your local craigslist or google your area for musicians wanted.

Experience is definitely preferred, but you have to start somewhere. I suggest that you continue to practice your chops, especially getting familiar with chords and signature fills of as many songs in your genre as possible. Practice playing along with songs and try to play what you feel would be your part in the band. Most importantly, learn key signatures, chord progressions, the circle of fifths and fourths and LISTEN.

You may not catch on with the first band you try, but keep at it. Every experience will make you better. As I look back, my skills improved by playing for an audience. They demanded that I get better and better. Even to this day I find little things that make my playing better and I say to myself 'why didn't I know this before.' This is a life-long learning journey, so take the plunge and make your mistakes. Good luck in your endeavor.

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Cass www.cassponline.com/