1.   A few tribute bands, such as Second Helping, open for real classic-rock acts, such as the Outlaws and Marshall Tucker.

2.   Bush is so unswervingly devoted to its Seattle sources that it might as well bill itself as a grunge tribute band.

3.   But tribute bands have been growing in both number and popularity.

4.   But together they manage to convey a goofy sincerity, especially when performing in their Neil Diamond tribute band.

5.   Clubgoers, in turn, seem to enjoy the tribute bands, essentially the next best thing to the real McCoy.

6.   In Seattle, a city better known for alternative rockers struggling to perform original music, several tribute bands have managed to thrive.

7.   Initially, Stone Temple Pilots was laughed off as a poor Pearl Jam tribute band.

8.   It was a Kiss tribute band that inspired the original rockers to put their makeup back on.

9.   Jason Zasky, managing editor for the recently closed Musician magazine, said he has seen tribute bands make their mark on the music scene.

10.   Major markets are not prime territory for tribute bands, according to booking agents in Dallas and New Orleans.