Band Member Goes Bush

LATE NEWS FOLLOWS.

If you’d prefer to read the review of our most recent gig, click here.

Last night Terry gave notice. One of the reasons for this is because he wants to play more country music. Artistic integrity. As he said, the music we have is right for the gigs we are playing (and they’re good shows), but it’s not right for him. The deluge of ‘new’ songs we’ve been picking up recently, with more to come, wouldn’t have helped. When he called to announce his intention he was feeling pretty crap about it. As the other members of the band learnt the news, they went through various degrees of shock. Although none of us expected this, a few things do make more retrospective sense now. One day, once I’ve got a bit more objectivity about it, I’ll possibly write more on it. At present, I can only wish him the best, and look forward to what The Negotiators going through another “obstacle is opportunity” phase brings forth.

Our dilemma has two primary aspects. First, obtaining services of another bass player. Second, reaccumulating sufficient equipment for gigging.

A bass player is pretty fundamental to a band. Besides technical competence, to be a band member the bassist must also have compatable personality (being in a band can be pretty stressful at times), commitment (it’s a lot of work) and be able to get on top of the repertoire (we have a growing play list, rotating over a hundred songs at present).

As to meeting up with a likely prospect, that’s already organised. One of us knows a fellow through past musical association who, after the proposal was put, sounded keen to give it a go. We’ll all meet within the week and decide then whether to run with him (and he with us). If it works out, I’ll post details.

Equipment is also under review. We maintain our own instruments and amplification, and have a PA and Front of House Speakers – which will get you a messy garage gig. We lack a lot of the gear that is needed for proper performance, however, and so now the hunt is on.

Terry indicated that he’s still willing to assist until we find our feet. I have no doubt we will come through this just like we’ve come through past line up changes. The question is – how long will it take?

If you can help out on the equipment front, please drop us a line…