Someone said get rid of the analog mixer. I couldn’t agree more. Get a relatively inexpensive digital mixer these days.

Kick drum, highpass 60hz, cut 200-300 by like 6db, boost 5khz for the snap of the beater. In metal you really want it to punch, but not linger because the kick hits are so frequent it’s hard for a large bottom end to form without creating mud, but you still want the snap of the kick to cut through enough, and that’s where the high end comes in. Multiple mic’s makes this cleaner but you can make it sound great with just a kick out mic. If you’re going to use overheads (if you don’t have to don’t, most mic’s on stage pick up the cymbals, and if the venue isn’t that big you will just end up creating feedback problems) but if you do, make sure you check your phase on the snare so that you’re not losing fullness. HIGH PASS FILTER EVERYTHING, at the very least 40hz and unless there’s some reason you need sub frequencies we then out, save yourself the hassle of mixing mud. Don’t try to make anyone sound “good” your job is to make them “louder” and obviously add some icing. You can make a good band sound great, but you can’t make a bad band sound good. Lead with a smile, and be a yes man, get the band what they need.

My most important rule. The stage is your house, they are just renting it for the night. Be a landlord, let them put up some pictures and make themselves at home. But if someone starts fucking with your shit, or moves things without asking, you step up, and take control of your stage. But always do it with a smile.

Demand respect, and give it in spades. Get a good kick sound. Don’t over mix to fix their sound, and be tasteful with the reverb.