The drummer isn't merely the percussion section of a rock band; his job is more akin to the conductor of an orchestra. Keeping the beat steady and consistent is the most important job of any drummer.
Unless you want to lug a lot of heavy equipment around, chances are good that you'll need to provide a space like a garage or basement for the band to practice in. It makes a lot more sense for the rest of the band to come to the drummer's place. This makes or breaks a lot of bands when they're beginning.
Woody Allen said that "Ninety percent of life is showing up." Nowhere is this more true than in a band. If the bass player doesn't show up, the show will suffer. If the lead singer doesn't show up, somebody else might be able to handle it. But if the drummer (and the drum kit) isn't at the gig, it just isn't rock music. This is another reason why most bands break up.
No member of the band is as responsible for the energy level of a band as the drummer. It's up to you to determine the pace and intensity of the music.
Fade-outs are fine for a record, but for live music, nothing beats a big finish, especially if your songs have a lot of energy.