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?
Sunday, November 28, 2010
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.
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.
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