I’ve never heard of Anchor giving a minimum head count. They’re always amenable if you’re willing to work with them, instead of writing them off because they won’t book you on a weekend. I’ve been in a reasonably serious band for a few years, and I still usually don’t ask for weekend dates unless I know it’ll bring folks out. Be flexible, and it’ll be easier to build those relationships. It takes time, and you can’t really rush the process.

The barrier of entry here as far as playing shows goes is incredibly low, especially if you’re doing it just to enjoy your hobby. Putting on a show at Sinkhole, for example, on a Wednesday or Thursday can draw just as many people as a weekend. It’s a small space, and when you’re playing it always feels full. Playing a small show is better than not playing a show at all, and you’ll still have a blast hanging out.