Looking for that first break

Subject: Looking for that first break
From: GUEST,Rafflesbear
Date: 13 Aug 06 - 02:23 PM

Every band is looking for that elusive first break. For folk and Irish duo Norcsalordie! this could come on September 8 with the Battle of the Acoustics competition at The Shed in Leicester.

There must be a lot of advice out there from you Mudcatters - let's hear it please - how do these guys catch the judges eye apart from being talented and enthusiastic! - check them out - Norcsalordie! website

In the meantime perhaps dear friends you could help settle their jangling nerves with some messages of support, goodwill and advice to Norcsalordie!

thanks and the best to you all

Subject: RE: Looking for that first break
From: GUEST,Richard N
Date: 13 Aug 06 - 05:17 PM

Smile, it's infectious

look at your own videos on your website and compare Hot Asphalt and I'll Tell Me Ma

good luck on the 8th

Subject: RE: Looking for that first break
From: GUEST,shaggy
Date: 13 Aug 06 - 06:17 PM

if you could put it in a bottle we'd all be famous - turn up and give it your best shot - if you're any good and it's your lucky day you might progress, but you need both of those - one is no good without the other

Subject: RE: Looking for that first break
From: Big Al Whittle
Date: 14 Aug 06 - 07:37 AM

I applied online last night to have a go at this - look forward to seeing you there

al
http://bigalwhittle.co.uk/

Subject: RE: Looking for that first break
From: GUEST,Rafflesbear
Date: 14 Aug 06 - 04:02 PM

Hey Al - that's not the idea

you're supposed to give us tips on how to win - not set up in opposition ! :)

come and say hallo on the 8th

Subject: RE: Looking for that first break
From: Big Al Whittle
Date: 15 Aug 06 - 08:49 AM

No opposition, I'm not well enough to gig at present. but it gives the evening a bit of interest if I have a sing. Provides a focus for me.!

Subject: RE: Looking for that first break
From: Big Al Whittle
Date: 17 Aug 06 - 06:06 AM

Dear RB

I'm sorry I think I've got bad news for you.

The guy phoned up last night. he said something really which gave the game away ....... you have to bring some friends and supporters. I just made my excuses and left him to find the next sucker.

I may be wrong but I think this is a scam that has been going on some little time in the London, but its only just started raising its ugly head in the provinces. I was invited to one in Derby around last Christmas.

I know its a pain in the arse, I know how hard it is looking for breaks - just thank your lucky stars you didn't get suckered into doing a spot in The Rock Garden in Covent Garden like we did - in response to to an ad in NME.

A good rule of thumb is - nobody is 'looking for' acoustic acts. go out and find your own markets.

If you decide to do it, make sure you go on early. first if possible. Its unlikely to be the sort of gig that builds up an atmosphere. Some of the idiots will talk through your act very loudly to give their mates a better chance of 'winning' - winning what never really seems to come into it. Anyway get on and and get off before they find forward gear.

If the Musician won't play the good guy and offer you a support gig anyway, which wouldn't surprise me they never have offered me one - try the Y theatre. Sheila who runs that. IS a very nice eperson - very genuine. Best wishes with your future projects.

Subject: RE: Looking for that first break
From: GUEST,rafflesbear
Date: 26 Aug 06 - 04:24 PM

thanks for the heads up Al - only just got round to reading it

will probably go through with it anyway but be prepared for the worst.

we'll check out the Y - that's near the station isn't it? Do they have any open mike nights that you know of?

do you have any performing tips for us?

cheers

Subject: RE: Looking for that first break
From: Big Al Whittle
Date: 26 Aug 06 - 07:13 PM

sunday night is the night when they do the folk club - even if they have a guest, Sheila tries to fit you in if you turn up early enough.

google me under bigalwhittle, and e-mail me properly.

tell me a bit about you. have you tried the Loughborough acoustic club on Thurs night at the Catholic club in Fennel street - also very nice organiser - Nick ellis - check the loughborough acoustic club website before you go and make sure its a open mic night.

don't ask me for careers advice - abit like asking the captain of the titanic for the safest route across the atlantic!