When the band begins to play negative spoken language
When a matter becomes serious, or problematic.
A: When could I know that I cross the line? B: You will know it when the band begins to play.
Mike and Nick in my team have not been on a good term for quite a long time. And when the band begins to play, maybe one of them will leave the team.
Everyone knows that that company's financial situation is unstable but you didn't withdraw the investment. What would you do when the band begins to play?
I put my faith in John, He can do well even when the band begins to play.
To think or consider something seriously
To be very serious
Said when one is absolutely serious or not joking in any way
If you say that someone or something is too hot to handle, you mean that they are too difficult or dangerous to cope with.