I think I just conquered my fear of them.

I walked into a branch of the well known music chain, soundcontrol. Usually all the guys in there are complete arseholes (see: that guy from Mogwai's rant on it after a staff member patronised the fuck out of him. It used to be on their site but got taken down - if anyone can find it, it would be greatly appreciated).
Clutching the guitar case, I walked over to the repairs section. The "Guitar tech" is watching videos on youtube. I interrupt him: "Hello?"
I proceed to explain the problem with the guitar, and, gaining confidence, I use guitar lingo masterfully and the repair is arranged expertly. Then I walk over to the counter. I recognize the music playing over the stereo: my bloody valentine. Without even referencing the band, I say "so did you manage to tickets then?", gesturing vaguely upwards as if to indicate the music is being pumped in from the floor above. Naturally, he says "no... but I know the guy that runs barrowlands, so...". Typical.
"Banter" complete, i purchase some guitar leads and leave the shop, a personal goal overcome: to not feel out of place and a complete tool in a music shop.

I never usually have the confidence to "banter" normally with ANYONE, let alone annoying music shop staff.

Anecdotes about music shops?

Also, why havnt The Onion done a piece about the new "aPhone" yet? I was thinking it would be quite funny. Apple have just announced the new aPhone. It's just a phone" etc etc

wow