I'm instantly wondering who this agent is because it seems completely ridiculous both for the agency and the band! Surely if the artist has not got enough interest, the point of representing them is diminished?

It is tough out there right now, of course, but I still don't think some artists work hard enough; especially the newer and smaller ones. Usually, they are great musicians with a lot to give but have not worked hard enough of the business side of things. I've said before how working as a professional musician, in any genre I would assume, also has to put a lot of work and sense into their own promotion, handling of finances, risks they take and admin.

I know of artists who are great musicians, but rely too much on their agents to get them gigs and promote stuff on their behalf. I don't deny that of course this is the agents role, but it helps if you're also involved.

On the other hand I know of artists who have taken a list of every folk club/festival organiser/arts centre booker they know of, pulled a day aside, and rang/emailed each of them, detailing their act, their availability and their rates. Within the week, they had a 20 day tour at £500 per gig, up and down the country.

So yeah, my advice would be to put a lot of work into both sides of your act: music and admin.