So, I posted the other day about the dilemma we've run into with several bands who allowed us to record their show(s) and then wanted the material removed because of performance issues and quirks.

While our initial instinct is always to defer to the artist's wishes, this issue was problematic, which is why I asked for input. (I explained both sides of the argument in the original post.) The resounding response from readers and artists was that we should post stuff as-is.

We feel it's very important that everyone be on the same page when we do record bands, so here's our audio/video policy, which we'll also add to our site FAQ:

• Any studio mp3's or live mp3's supplied by the artist, from the artist's site, or provided to us by third parties (with the authorization of the artist) will be removed ASAP at the request of the band at any time. (In other words, if we didn't record it ourselves, it's the artist's call.)
• We only record shows with the permission of the artist. We never charge an artist any fee to record their show.
• We can record with mics, but will get a more consistent recording if you can get us tapped into the soundboard.
• If you come into our studio for a podcast interview and play songs, assume that they will run on the site. (Duhh.)
• If we record a show, it is exclusively our call whether or not it is of good enough quality to post. We will not post anything that we think is of poor enough quality that it misrepresents the band. (It doesn't do us any good to post crap recordings, either.)
• In the show description, we will endeavor to note any unusual circumstances (colds, flus, equipment malfunctions, free beer, etc.) that might have affected the performance. If we miss it, the artist (and anyone else) is always free to post a comment on the show page.
• We make a good faith effort to edit cover songs out of recordings, but make no guarantees. (Sorry cover bands-- legal issues.)
• If the artist requests prior to the performance, we will edit out specific songs. (For instance, a band recently asked us to edit out their unreleased tracks from a show.) We don't like doing this. We think it's a bad idea. But, if you ask in advance, we'll do it.
• Anything we record, we can use on the site any way we see fit, so long as we don't sell the recording.
• The artist has the right to download the performance from our site and use it in any way they see fit.

We hope this clarifies the ground rules, so that everyone knows what to expect from each other. We love recording shows and bringing the live experience to your die-hard fans and to casual listeners who are thinking about catching your shows. If you would like us to record one of your upcoming shows, contact Cindy. If you're a taper (video or audio) and would like to share your stuff on our site, contact Cindy. You will need to sign our freelance agreement, which requires that you produce proof  that you have permission from the artist to post the material.

Thanks to everybody who gave us support and advice on this!