First outside gig.

sound of bass · #1 09-13-2010, 11:51 PM

Played our first outside gig this past weekend, nothing fancy, a very informal friends house party with lots of co-workers and friends. I must say, it was quite challenging. The sun was hot, the bees were everywhere (drummer has a bee venom allergy)the knats were unbearable, we could hardly hear each other, the drumer was placed so he couldnt really see our hands and where we were in the song (visual clues) and when the sun went down, the only lighting to be had was a stringed patio light set. But we all had a good time, everyone really enjoyed us anyway, of course they werent any wiser...except on maybe one song...we really fu***d that one up,lol. I believe all experiences, even bad ones are valuable, but if I had a choice, Id rather not play outside ever again. Anyone feel the same?

king koeller · #2 09-14-2010, 12:03 AM

Playing outside is sometimes uncomfortable, but the party atmosphere is unbeatable.
I hated playing all those god awful indoor bar gigs in the 70's and 80 's' when everyone smoked and blew it in your face. I'd rather play outside anytime! It sounded like you band had a great time anyway...Next time, set up so every one can see everyone. Have the host of the party light up some of those insect candles with citronella, and get some good stage lights with the band profits. You were the life of the party! Cool gig!

sound of bass · #3 09-14-2010, 02:19 AM

Yes, we were the life of the party, it was a really fun time despite everythig. It was a house warming party so the owners didnt have time to aquire all the things such as citronella, lighting,etc. But the beer was cold, the food was good, everyone is still talking about the band and how "good" we are. We have an indoor show this Friday and I cant wait to get back inside....no knats flying in my sweat logged eyeballs! lol.

Dantreige · #4 09-14-2010, 04:59 PM

I lost several pints of blood on my last outdoor gig. We where next to a lake in late July. Mosquito hell! LED lights don't fry those little buggers like good 'ol 500 watt par 56's do.

Toptube · #5 09-14-2010, 05:11 PM

I've always felt like outdoor gigs sound better on average, than most indoor gigs. So even though you guys were having a hard time hearing, the crowd was probably digging the sound.

PeaveyPippin · #6 09-14-2010, 05:18 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Toptube

I've always felt like outdoor gigs sound better on average, than most indoor gigs. So even though you guys were having a hard time hearing, the crowd was probably digging the sound.

Agreed...outdoor gigs sound better IMO too. Sounds like the OP learned a few things to prep for next time. Just like playing a new bar or club, the first couple times you kind of have to size up the room for the sound, and possibly the set up route to take so everyone can catch ques, or at least have eye contact, and hear each other obviously etc etc... there are just different elements to think about when approaching an outdoor gig, but they can be very rewarding.

Baron Von Vik · #7 09-14-2010, 05:27 PM

All three of our last party gigs were outside... there's a lot more to consider when you're out in the elements. For example, at the last gig the bongo heads went soft in the heat, we didn't know until the song started and... splat. Plus, the plastic finish on the drum kit got all wrinkly and weird-looking, probably because we set up too early. And the soundcheck always requires at least three people running around the venue if it's wide open.
But all in all, I like playing outside. There's something elemental about playing under the sky. Deep-Woods OFF, baby!

Drop-the-One · #8 09-14-2010, 11:48 PM

you gotta set it up your way. Man, Outside parties are THE BEST

Playin' on a patio w a sick sound system pounding 5miles up the river with hundreds of people goin up and down... so fun :P

sound of bass · #9 09-15-2010, 01:51 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by PeaveyPippin

Agreed...outdoor gigs sound better IMO too. Sounds like the OP learned a few things to prep for next time. Just like playing a new bar or club, the first couple times you kind of have to size up the room for the sound, and possibly the set up route to take so everyone can catch ques, or at least have eye contact, and hear each other obviously etc etc... there are just different elements to think about when approaching an outdoor gig, but they can be very rewarding.

You're right about that! Maybe even make up an "outside gig bag" complete with bug spray and all the other essential survival stuff,lol.

sound of bass · #10 09-15-2010, 02:07 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Toptube

I've always felt like outdoor gigs sound better on average, than most indoor gigs. So even though you guys were having a hard time hearing, the crowd was probably digging the sound.

It seems thats true. The word of mouth here (the hospital) is still running strong, people are still raving about it and making plans to attend this fridays gig, which is our biggest, most serious gig this far in our 6 month career. Its funny that we were struggling like hell, yet no one seemed to notice. WE REALLY need to bring our A game Friday though.