It seems that many bands now plan the encores as part of the set list. My favorite scenario is when the the band/singer leaves the stage saying "Good Night", yet they still haven't played their marquee song or latest hit. You know that they're coming back out no matter what.
Remember when 'encores' used to be 'cover' songs that the bands played? Now (as Eric) just stated, they just save their best songs for the encore.
Side Note: I'm in a local band and we have a descent following. The fans (almost always) chant "One more song!" after every gig. We now find ourselves saving one of our better songs to the end because we used to find ourselves in predicaments where people would be wanting another song and we'd have to end the night on a bad one.
I guess ticket prices have made it to the point where you know that most of the audience is going to be a "Die hard fan" and is going to want an encore. I don't think many people would pay $50-$100 to see a band they really didn't care for.
Many of these bands, hit the lights immediately so that there is no confusion, and I respect this immensely.
i couldn't agree more. that is the only sure fire sign (besides, "elvis has left the building.") that the gig is up!
i also agree that most bands save the good stuff for last. it seems wise that they would try to end it on a "high note crowd pleaser", but i always think that those poor guys must be *so tired* of playing that damn song!
coldplay even made a joke about it. he was like, yeah, we'll get to "yellow", but how about letting us play some other songs too...?
) at a very high speed. So then you have to inhale after. The "God Bless You" is meant to prevent demon spirits (or something) from being sucked in on that inhale. Or something like that. 
