Today I got asked....

...tips of what to do and what not to do for up-and-coming bands....

I replied as follows -

"I think more important than anything right now is the need for bands to be organised, communicative, pro-active. Bands should only get other people involved with their band when they simply do not have the time to sort everything out anymore.....it can be done. Look at Ben Weiman self-managing Dillinger Escape Plan, it certainly hasn't hindered them. It is these bands that will prevail right now - especially with blogging/twitting/online promotion. Rolo Tomassi booked their own shows and self-managed for years. Pulled Apart By Horses make a song and dance about everything they do and everyone noticed, Dananananaykroyd likewise have a solid online presence. Bands, if they want to be serious or get anywhere, should try and divide up roles within the band as early as possible - writing, online, merch, tours etc. It really helps and really makes certain members feel less pressurised.

Bands should also talk to and befriend other bands, network between themselves for tours, and to discuss potential labels etc. Horror stories about labels need to be stamped out now, in this climate more than ever. Any label with shifty practices and principles should not last, and it should be bands that dictate this.

Finally, I still hugely advocate bands taking their time, rather than rushing through a hyper-condensed career, dictated by a label or management. Organic growth. Dont release an album too soon. Do lots of little releases. It makes your band more interesting. Again - it seems bands that last are those with a bit of history and background and working knowledge of this schbang, before getting into the public eye on any serious level - blood red shoes, rolo tomassi, dananananaykroyd.......and it's what i'm trying to do with Throats - gradual."


On another topic - On Monday I said I couldn't decide if I loved or hated Passion Pit. I've decided it's defo love.