Performing on New Year's Eve requires forethought. Bands must rehearse their regular sets, perfect "Auld Lang Syne" and make other preparations."I try to find a toast online to say" at midnight, said Whiskey Dawn lead singer Troy Ferris.Whiskey Dawn, a Sacramento country band that has opened for Faith Hill and Brad Paisley, will usher in 2012 Saturday night at the Red Hawk Casino. The band will offer casinogoers a lively New Year's Eve set, Ferris said: "Our music is always upbeat."But a New Year's Eve gig sets itself apart."It's a different energy – people are dressed to celebrate," Ferris said. "I want everybody to kiss somebody at midnight, so I have some fun messing with people" to encourage them.
Because people are more likely to be up for dancing and drinking on Dec. 31 than on any other night of the year, a New Year's Eve gig can guarantee exposure. But audience attention can waver, and crowds can get loud."Things can get kind of crazy on New Year's Eve," said John Németh, the Bay Area blues singer and harmonica player performing Saturday night at the Torch Club.Németh usually skips New Year's Eve gigs, he said, but the Torch Club is an exception."I like the age and the temperament of people who go to the Torch Club," Németh said. "Folks are there to listen.