RTP-area local music and culture

[local506 AT gmail.com]

Even more real-time advice and an insider-tip to bands who read amch.
I've got a busy week, so I am also in the process of booking support
for not one, not two, but eight touring acts in March.  I've only had
local bands request to play with two of these acts, so for six of
these shows I'm starting from scratch.  Which for me means a lot more
research and  making a list of possible support acts (who may not even
be available.)

In honesty, the best way to get a support slot at Local 506 (can't
speak for other clubs) is to ask to play on specific bills (instead of
a generic 'we want to play your club' email.)  Any band that request
to play on a certain show is always considered, as it helps me by
saving time.

Now, again, you should pick the shows that interest you and that are
complementary to your bands sound. Asking to play every show gets old,
or telling me that X band is your favorite band, but then not showing
up when you don't get the show is also noticed (trust me, that only
works once!)  Likewise, you should only be interested in playing with
bands that you think your audience will come to see, it's equally
noticeable when there is no one in the room when you start playing.

I realize that you are the opener, but both 506 and the touring bands
are looking for acts who can add to the draw.  The lack of solid-
drawing locals is why upcoming shows like Dr.Dog and Black Mountain
have requested 'no local' - it's their decision as they've determined
the locals aren't adding enough drawing power to the bill.

Likewise, booking agents note bigger drawing acts.  The Physics of
Meaning was suggested by the Nina Nastasia's agent for their recent
show and Red Collar's name now comes up a lot.  These are people you
need to be impressing more so than me - they book the entire country,
I only do one venue!

To put this in perspective, if just one comparable band had emailed me
about playing with Yeasayer, they likely would have gotten the opening
slot as no one had asked. Instead, I had to scramble to find last
minute support for that show - and it almost sold-out.  Similarly, I
contacted the support for Dan Deacon, not vice versa - another recent
show that almost sold-out.

This has been my policy all along...and have always been amazed that
more bands haven't caught on.  Ask Violet Vector, Honored Guests,
American Aquarium and many others - there's a reason they normally
have a show on my schedule...glenn