Friday, August 23, 2013

Apparently we don't want new music these days. This industry is full of "Distraction Art and Business Art" the industry is designed to give us something we feel comfortable experiencing and that's where we fall down. We are so comfortable that we only like things we understand... so a remix or a re make is what we pay for. Its quick and has less risk.

How many musicians actually understand musical theory anyway and actually try to create something unique? How many can identify the design of something, understand that design through appreciation, and then adapt a unique perspective therefore driving a completely new idea and creation. Then how can we share this equitably in a way that respects the history of artisans?

Check this Vid out about media and the new generation of media subscribers. Scroll to 33 minutes to here Reggie Watts talk directly about todays music and those who listen, make, and market it.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ebOxVLGk9rY

Saturday, March 12, 2011

Original Music Showcase Week 2

In the 2nd week of our showcase we had another 3 bands between 7:30 pm and 11:00 pm.
Opening the show we had OPEN AIR who blew our heads off with hot razor sharp power chords through large stack amps. Scissor kicking across the stage, standing on tables, and a drummer who stands from time to time using flare to continually grab our attention. These guys are obviously influenced by AD/CD and Airborne but bring a great uniqueness to this genre.
DWAYNE, the second band, continued to bring energy and quality to the stage. Soaring vocals and progressions that follow in suit with what I've been noticing around the indie sound... the debate between if its a sound, a genre, or simply meaning independent is not in debate here, but there is something to the sound. Dwayne has that something
The 3rd band for the night was HEROINCREDIBLE. A unique 3 piece band fronted by a lead guitar playing, vocal power house of a lady. In the words of HEROINCREDIBLE "its time to slay the Dragon".




Wednesday, March 2, 2011

Original Music Showcase Week 1 2011

The Original Music Showcase is exactly that, a showcase. 30 bands perform a 45 minute set of original music. A panel of industry judges rate the bands on some specific criteria. The top 3 placing bands will be awarded opportunities to further themselves. It is the Blind Beggar Pubs mission to focus this showcase around band networking, constructive feedback, and positive growth for bands and the music scene in Calgary.

The first showcase went off with out a hitch. Starting off with the rock cabaret of the Doom Kitties and moving to punk rock performed by Vendetta Skies. Burlap Sac took us home with their unique fusion of hip hop meets folk/funk.

Sunday, November 28, 2010

GOOD SHOW OR NO SHOW?

Some bands get it, some bands don't. Or should I say some bands do it and some bands don't. I'm talk about a stage show. I've recently seen a few concerts, Tool in Edmonton, Cake in Calgary, and the Johnny Butler Trio in Calgary.
I paid a lot of money to see Tool in Edmonton and average ticket prices to Cake and Johnny Butler.
I was seriously dispointed in Tool. Baiscally my going away feeling of the Tool cocnert at Rexell place in Edmonton was... the band on stage sounded like Tool... thats it. It sounded great and the flashy lights and LED screens were cool too.... But no real show. They started, they continued to play good music, and then they finished. No interaction, no participation, no memerable experience other then the fact I saw Tool.
Cake on the other hand had a good feel, granted the venue was more intimate then Rexell place was for the Tool concert, but one thing Cake made an effort to do was interact with people, create a unique expreince only Cake could provide, plus the Band had a message which was clearly presented as take care of your world in respect to ourselve and out children and childrens children. They did this by giving a way a tree to someone who promised to plant it somewhere it could grow and thrive around a Family... Cake made a point, they make it clear and easy to understand. Thank you to John McCrea (lead singer) for calling out the moron who yelled "more rock, less talk" in the middle of his message about Cakes perspective on society, technology, nature, and family. I though, thank God (if you beleive in one), that there is a Band still out today that strives to send a message... I was sure most new poplular bands were just living the dream and realating it to something purposful.
Then I saw the Johnny Butler Trio last night and I have to say again, Thank God there is band out there who is sending a beautiful message. The band had a great stage show, they wer professional and brought a WOW factor to the show I never expected.
In the middle of their show, when they were introducing the players and giving each a solo the Drummer (Nicky Bomba) grabbed a marching snare drum and lead a procussion "conga line" off the stage, into the audience and create a circle in the middle of McEwan hall where all fans and audience members sat in a massive circle. The band then played thier percussive parts while Nicky split the room into 4 groups who each sang a part on different beats to compliment each other and involve everyone in the venue. FANTASTIC!! They had Calgary screaming louder then I have ever head a Calgary audience scream!! one of the best shows I've ever seen!!

My question to you and your indie band is....
What sets you appart from the average Indie Band?
How are you going to create a memorable expereince for your fans?
How are you going to wow other bands fans into following your band to?
Whats your Bands WOW factor?

Friday, November 5, 2010

Where have I come to

Its loud, dark, and full of those who thrive in self induced disillusion. Its hard to know who's your friend in an environment where everyone is intoxicated. A song by Dr. Hook: Queen of the Silver Dollar reminds me of how people are in this place.



Wednesday, February 3, 2010

As to what I am doing

Thanks for checking out this Blog. I am going to be doing my best to continually update what I am doing in the realm of music.

My life has recently placed me in a job where i am resposible for booking hundreds of bands. This is very interesting becuase as a musician and someone who has formed, played in, and toured with many bands, I have not ever been in a position to see it from the angle of the venue. Musicians need venues in order to showcase their art.

One thing that I am learning about bands and musicians, and this I beleive is the key factor in what bands make and what bands dont, the bands and musicians who beleive and want to work hard for their rewards are the the best bands and musicians.

One thing Id like to say to all musicians who want to be successful...
You are entitled to nothing, but can have everything if you are willing to live without and if you can check your ego at the door...

The stage is the location for ego, it is a tool and can be very effective if you learn to control it and don't let it control you.