Thinking about getting started - A few questions

[Jamirus2]

Hi guys,

I am thinking about getting started here on P99 soon, but I have a couple of questions. Also, I'd like to add that I'm relatively a newbie when it comes to EQ. I don't think I've ever had a character higher than 20. Except on Everquest Online Adventures, which I loved playing.

I heard that there's no soul binders? So, I would have to ask a player to bind me? If so, what class can bind souls?

What classes are in demand? Is there a stat sheet of what classes are played most? I am most interested in either a Shaman, Enchanter, Bard or Cleric.

Are there any recommended races to start as, too? Where are places that I can get groups in, and what level range do groups usually start? I see that there's usually around 700 people online whenever I check, which is great. Are there a lot of people playing lower leveled characters?