Originally Posted by
The Pepsi Challenge
Let me start by saying, Deacon Blue are in a position where they do gigs for a nice little bonus (i.e. when the tax bills come in). However the kind of gigs they're talking about are residencies, such as at the Albert Hall (London, not Stirling) and playing New Year extravaganzas. Obviously Mr Ross's leftist taking-it-to-the-people credentials are as genuine as most of his music. Anyway, for £35K you could put together the kind of line-up that would bring folk flooding to the town. But let's hold off the phone call to Fish just yet.
OK. First thing's first: decide what you want to do, and, who you want to attract. The organisers need to understand PRECISELY what kind of programming policy they're looking to achieve. Most summer festivals - even the big independent ones - cater for a niche market. This Big Gig needs to satisfy the average punter.
So here's a couple of potential names...
Idlewild. You'd certainly get them for a lot less than £35K. Roddy Woomble has done umpteen interviews saying how he likes living in the highlands, and, that it's the best place in the world. If so, am sure he'd like to put his (the Big Gig oraganisers') money where his mouth is. Surely. They've got an album to plug in the new year after all; and Idlewild are probably just on the right side of 'weird' for many, and a name (some) people have heard of.
Another who would make the effort north are Echo & The Bunnymen, they've been here before after all. Popular amongst the kids again, too, is McCulloch and co. Last year they Sold Out every Scottish venue they played.
Biffy Clyro also do this kind of thing, but are perhaps on the other side of the line. Teenage Fanclub, as well as Julian Cope are acts that would love - if everything was organised properly (you'll have to demonstrate that before they'll even talk back) - to come up to the Far North.
The ideal festival to pick tips from, however, is Big In Falkirk. Have a look at their line-ups from the past few years. And then scale them down. They've generally worked well with the odd big name; but sunny weather, dancing and loads of booze are critical factors in something like this working on a budget.
I wish thee the best of luck...
Mon the Biffy
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