There has been much discussion of late on the local music forums and social networking outlets about the nature and future of Swindon’s music scene.

Much was said about how and where you put gigs on, the genres and geographic origin of the bands, the promotions and prejudices of the people organising these gigs and even the perceived cliquey nature of it all.

I see supporting local music as like being in a union. While there are officials and people who do the admin and organising, the union is the sum total of everyone.

And if everyone got involved a bit more then maybe they would feel more included and their voice would be heard and collectively they could help make a difference.

So how can you get involved? The obvious one is to go to a show – gigs only work if they have a crowd of punters.

If there are no shows around that you like the look of why not talk to a band and a venue about putting something on that is more to your tastes? Or help promote what is already taking place?

If people using Facebook spent as much time sharing gig info with their friends as they did sharing pictures of their lunch, their cat, random political ideas and people falling over then more people would know about what great gigs we have going on.

One thing that also gets overlooked is buying merchandise. For the cost of a pint or two a CD or a t-shirt sale might make all the difference to the band’s running cost for that night.

The bottom line is: get involved. And here are some things to get involved in.

Tonight, the first day of The Beehive reopening, is marked by the regular Acoustic Buzz sessions, hosted by Blind River Scares main man Tim Manning.

Along with Tim’s wonderful blend of hillbilly highway meets swaggering folk, you can catch the southern fried sounds of The Rosellys and the “popgrass” styling of acoustic duo Peeky Blinders.

If you prefer to make your own music then why not grab your guitar, bass, violin, kazoo, spoons (other cutlery, if you prefer) or whatever instrument you play and head up to The Victoria for their jam night?

Friday is all about big guitars, big beats and driving rhythms.

Firstly, a mix of original cider swilling, folk punk and Celtic bar room classics can be found at The Rolleston courtesy of Mick O’Toole, a band who look like a wonderful cross between a Brendan Behan convention and the groundsmen of Downton Abbey. Sort of retro-folk chic!

The Wyvern Theatre is responsible for what seems like the weekly appearance in the parish of Boot Led Zeppelin. No further description needed.

And if you want to revel in a mix tape approach to the most enduring songs of the metal and classic rock genres then it’s Metalhead at The Victoria for you.

A few big events roll into view on Saturday.

Sticking with the louder end of things for the moment, Level 3 is the scene of Dredded Vyrus Promotions Hardcore and Metal Night.

Headliners, Vaults, offer incendiary riffs and an avalanche of backbeats... hardcore at its most uncompromising.

Whilst Vicious Cycle offer a similar experience, the band that really caught my ear were From Dusk Till Dawn who manage to mix a bruising brutality with a wonderful ear for melody, roaring guttural, gutter vocals with soaring, clean deliveries and big choruses. Nice.

Opening the night are Bear Hunt, blistering melodies, great dynamics and probably the most pained vocals you have ever heard.

During the daytime there is an open air event at Wharf Green raising awareness for local charities and featuring music by The Damned and The Dirty, Ataraxis Vibration, All Ears Avow, Jimmy Moore and others.

The other big event, and I’m guessing one with not too much of a crossover of fans from that previously mentioned, is The Erin Bardwell Collective CD Launch at The Victoria. Another slice of reggae, ska and rocksteady with an old school feel, great harmonies, positive messages, porkpie hats and exquisite song writing from the best on the circuit.

Support comes from the ska/dance fusion of SN Dubstation and Pete Murphy spinning the tunes.

More old school vibes, this time of a rock and roll nature as 50s revivalists Josie and The Outlaw play The Rolleston.

Final mention of the week goes to Billy Bingham who can be found replete with ballads and tattoos, torch songs and guyliner at The Roaring Donkey on Wednesday.