02/11/2013
Ok I have debated about bringing this up but I just have to. When I'm working with your band I am doing my very best to make you sound GREAT for your fans and the bar owners. Hopefully I get new fans for your band too. BUT, if your band insists on creating a stage volume that is upwards of 110db there is NO way I can get you mixed. The only way to get your vocals above that is to cut EVERYTHING out and run only vocals and then most patrons are going to either move way back or worse yet LEAVE. I know the band has no idea what they sound like out front. That is my job to make you sound awesome. When you play a 150 to 200 capacity venue and crank your favorite 4/12, that is WAY too much for a venue that size. I recently did a gig for a locally known band who is known for their VOLUME! After working with them several times before and getting them what they want in their monitors and turning down the amps they sounded fantastic, had the dance floor packed and the owner VERY happy. Folks this is a win/win for you. If the servers can't hear to get their orders for customers they get mad. If the customer has to wait on drinks they are mad. Most likely they will leave. This works it's way back to the band because the owner won't want you back. If on the other hand everybody is happy, they have fun, drink (which makes the owner happy) and remember your band. This in turn gets you rehired by the venue making you more money. Trust me when you start playing and people get up and leave the bar sees that and immediately start talking about having you back or not. I speak for no venue this is my own opinion. Everybody runs to the sound man when they're favorite band doesn't sound like they think they should. While I am working hard to make them sound good five of their buddies are up there telling them to turn up, or this pa sucks, the sound guy is an idiot, (may very well be). Remember if you can do better throw about $50,000 out there yourself and give it a go. Controlling 100+db in a 5000 square foot venue is NOT for the weak at heart trust me. Remember this is MY opinion not that of any of the venues I have worked at. You can be pi**ed at me if you don't agree or think I am an idiot, it's OK. I'm soon to be 54 years old and lugging gear is rough on an old guy plus my ears are about shot anyway so I won't be doing this much longer. I only started doing this to make the bands sound better and a LOVE of live music.
