Why should i stay in this band?

Bjazzman · #1 02-09-2009, 05:32 PM

Im in 2 bands. One that i really like and one that's ok.

The ok band i've been with for about 2 years. It started out as a 80's gig we did. Our drummer does a fantastic job of doing backing tracks in garageband. So now when we play(its soul/rock mostly covers) its alot of backing tracks. Most of the audience doesen't notice and it's really nice filling in the gaps.

Its a 4 piece and our singer sometimes plays guitar. Anyway, im not really diggin the music anymore. We rehearse once a week if that and it seems we get together only when necessary. They play alot just the 3 of them since they can put bass in garageband and not have to play with me. It's nice since i can choose which gigs i want to do with them. They like playing the "bigger" gigs with me and i can understand that.

I thought that by playing mostly covers i'd get paid more. It seems like we get paid like an original band though. There are "promises" of us playing at the state fair this year for a good chunk of change. I think they want to play more of their originals(which kinda suck to be honest)

Im not really sure that i want to be in an ok band even though i can pick when i play. I might be in this group for the wrong reasons though(money, excuse to use my gear live) I don't know if i want to put in the energy to writing songs for a group i might not stay with.

If i do decide to back out or play less how should i approach this? what do you guys think? this band im talking about is www.myspace.com/arcflashhazard

i might be able to devote more time to the band i really enjoy playing with if i quit.

baalroo · #2 02-09-2009, 05:57 PM

sounds like you already know what the "right" answers are.

Bjazzman · #3 02-09-2009, 06:01 PM

i was afraid of that. i just don't like looking unprofessional by backing out of something i got involved in. It worked out great with one of my previous bands since we are all still friends and i play with the drummer in my fun band. but should i wait at least until we find out for sure we are playing the state fair or should i just cut my losses and tell them my intentions since it seems like im headed that way anyway?

baalroo · #4 02-09-2009, 06:15 PM

I would be honest with them either way, it's only fair. If they're even halfway pro they'll understand and you can work together to come to a mutually respectful/beneficial resolution.

StyleOverShow · #5 02-09-2009, 06:21 PM

Bands have lifetimes, or best if used by dates. Your time is up, there's apparently isn't.

Skarekrough · #6 02-10-2009, 10:23 AM

Being excited about a band doesn't just have to be about the music.

Perhaps taking the helm and moving things towards a more productive goal that you'd be excited about would infuse some enthusiasm.

Chickencha · #7 02-10-2009, 11:15 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bjazzman

i just don't like looking unprofessional by backing out of something i got involved in.

There's absolutely nothing unprofessional about quitting a band as long as you do it the right way. Be honest and respectful, keep commitments you've made to scheduled gigs, and give plenty of notice. If you do that, anyone who accuses you of being unprofessional is full of it.

People and situations change and there's nothing wrong with that.

jmac · #8 02-10-2009, 11:23 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Chickencha

There's absolutely nothing unprofessional about quitting a band as long as you do it the right way. Be honest and respectful, keep commitments you've made to scheduled gigs, and give plenty of notice. If you do that, anyone who accuses you of being unprofessional is full of it.

People and situations change and there's nothing wrong with that.

I agree with Chickencha. Plus you've been in the band for two years. You don't want to develop a reputation for quitting projects, but two years is enough time.