Actually, they never could, from a legal standpoint.For the last few years, the antiquated law dictating a dry stage in any performing music venue has been quietly ignored by most clubs and law enforcement, but now a growing list of club owners and security folk are telling me that they are being told to enforce the regulation at all times (local music blog Sound on the Sound noted the approach of this unfortunate trend earlier this year). The law (supposedly dating back to burlesque times) stems from the notion that musicians are temporary employees of the club while they are performing on stage. This would only make sense to me if they were afforded the same benefits and protections as other employees, but I highly doubt that’s the case. I’ve never heard of a club covering medical expenses via L and I when a bass player sprains his ankle.Aside from that obvious injustice, it’s just a plain drag for musicians, period. If you’re getting up on stage, pouring your guts out and working your face off for little to no pay, you should at least be entitled to taking a swig off your beer in between songs. I’m sure the straight edge crowd finds this both hilarious and trivial, but I find it to be just another reason for touring bands to mock some of our more insane liquor laws and by extension, find more reasons to play elsewhere.