Gig Gab - The Working Musicians' Podcast Paul Kent & Dave Hamilton

In this week’s episode, Dave and Paul dive deep into the challenges musicians face when putting a substitute musician on stage, delving into the nuances of finding a reliable sub for extended periods.. The hosts also explore the concept of truly “knowing” a song, highlighting the dedication and depth of understanding required to deliver a truly exceptional performance.

Respect in the music business becomes a central theme as Dave and Paul discuss the industry’s hierarchical dynamics and how some things are so important that they get to live outside of that. Amidst the insightful conversations, Dave brings levity with an unforgettable Taylor Swift joke, injecting humor into the episode. The hosts later reminisce about the charm and challenges of performing in smoky bars, evoking a sense of nostalgia for the golden era of live music.

Recognizing the importance of image and branding, Dave and Paul emphasize the significance of professional band photos. They discuss how high-quality visuals can play a pivotal role in attracting the right audience and securing coveted gigs. The episode concludes with a thought-provoking debate: Is all press good press? Is all social media good social media? The hosts navigate the pros and cons of various forms of publicity, underscoring the power and responsibility that come with leveraging social platforms effectively.



* 00:00:00 Gig Gab 384 – Monday, May 22nd, 2023

00:00:55 GigGab Mailing List!

00:02:02 Put a Sub on Stage

00:03:12 It Doesn’t Work

00:05:20 I need a sub for eight weeks

00:11:50 When you “know” the song

00:18:55 Respect in the Music Business

00:21:39 Dave’s awful Taylor Swift joke

00:22:27 SPONSOR: HelloFresh delivers farm-fresh, pre-portioned ingredients and seasonal recipes right to your doorstep. Go to HelloFresh.com/giggab16 and use code giggab16 for 16 free meals plus free shipping!

00:24:24 Smoky Bars

00:31:26 Get pro photos for your band

00:39:03 Is all press good press? Is all social media good social media?



 

In this episode, Dave and Paul explore a diverse range of topics, from loud crowds to reminiscing about the COVID era. They also delve into the fascinating realm of band dynamics and take an exclusive peek behind the scenes of Natalie Merchant’s current tour. Additionally, discover some exceptional gear recommendations that can enhance your musical journey. So, let’s dive into Gig Gab’s latest episode and gain valuable insights that will elevate your musical pursuits!

The Loud Crowd Made it 90dB on Stage…Between Songs!

Managing stage volume between songs is a challenge faced by many musicians. In this segment, Dave and Paul address this issue and offer practical advice on achieving optimal volume control. They share valuable insights to ensure a seamless transition between songs, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a professional stage presence at all times. As Dave and Paul frequently remind us, “Always Be Performing” – even during those brief interludes.

Back When We Talked About COVID for Every Episode

In a nostalgic moment, Dave and Paul reflect on the past episodes where the shadow of COVID-19 loomed large. They discuss the changes and challenges brought about by the pandemic and how it influenced their podcast. This retrospective conversation sheds light on the resilience of musicians and the adaptability required to navigate the evolving music industry landscape.

Old Friends, New Bandmates

Discover the magic of creating new bandmates out of old friends in this captivating segment. Dave and Paul delve into the intricacies of building bands with familiar faces and explore the unique dynamics that arise from such collaborations. They share personal anecdotes and provide valuable tips on nurturing relationships and fostering creativity within the band. It’s a testament to the enduring bonds that music can forge.

Listen to the Universe (and the Music)

Open your mind to the vast universe of music and the inspiration it holds in this thought-provoking segment. Dave and Paul encourage listeners to embrace unexpected opportunities and explore new musical horizons. They emphasize the importance of listening to the universe’s whispers and discovering fresh sources of creativity. By opening ourselves to the vastness of the musical landscape, we can unlock endless possibilities.

Natalie Merchant…Behind the Scenes

In this exclusive segment, Dave shares some geeky details about how sound and monitors are mixed and controlled during Natalie Merchant’s current tour.

Gear Gab

Gear enthusiasts, this one’s for you! Paul shares some new gear he’s been checking out, as well as some praise for a tower speaker he finds to be very well-supported by its manufacturer!

Whether it’s managing stage volume, embracing new bandmates, or exploring new musical horizons, the key is to stay dedicated, passionate, and…Always Be Performing!



00:00:00 Gig Gab 383 – Monday, May 15th, 2023

00:01:23 80dB on Stage…Between Songs!

00:04:45 Back when we talked about COVID for every episode

00:08:49 Old Friends, New Bandmates



Listen To The Universe (and the Music)





00:13:32 SPONSOR: Capo is the app that gives you song-learning super-powers. In addition to letting you slow-down and loop sections of songs, capo lifts chords, detects beats, and MUCH more. Visit CapoApp.com from SuperMegaUltraGroovy today.

00:15:17 PODCAST: What Is Music? A Music Podcast About Music! Currently on its fourth season where they are going through Radiohead’s entire career, album by album, track by track.

00:16:07 Natalie Merchant…Behind The Scenes

Welcome to the Gig Gab podcast, hosted by Dave Hamilton and Paul Kent. In this episode, they discuss vocal warm-ups, email marketing, and microphone reviews. Let’s dive into the details.

Vocal Warm-Ups

At the beginning of the podcast, Dave and Paul talk about the importance of vocal warm-ups before a performance. Paul recommends the straw training technique, which uses negative air pressure to help improve your singing voice. They also mention R.E.M.’s “Finest Worksong” as a song that works for Dave to use for warm-ups.

I Want More Email!

Dave and Paul share their thoughts on social networks and their limitations when it comes to staying in touch with your favorite artists. They advise subscribing to the mailing lists of creators you like in order to guarantee that you receive their updates. They also recommend Mailchimp and Bandzoogle as useful email marketing tools.

The Very Occasional Band

The hosts discuss the challenges of managing a band when its members have other commitments. They talk about “The Very Occasional Band” and how they have managed to maintain their creative output despite busy schedules.

UpTown Celebration Rehearsal, not Practice

Dave and Paul discuss the difference between rehearsals and practice sessions. They advise against using rehearsal time for individual practice and suggest that band members come prepared to rehearsals.

Paul’s Central Coast Band

The hosts talk about Paul’s experiences playing in his Central Coast band. The conversation then evolves into how some bands put their own spin on classic songs, like Everclear’s cover of “Brown Eyed Girl.”

Microphone Reviews

Dave reviews the Sennheiser Profile USB-C Streaming Condenser Mic and discuss its pros and cons. They also ask for listener feedback on the Mojave Audio MA-D Dynamic Microphone.

Conclusion

In this episode of Gig Gab, Dave and Paul cover a wide range of topics related to performing and managing a band. From vocal warm-ups to email marketing and microphone reviews, they share their insights and experiences with listeners. Be sure to tune in for the next episode of Gig Gab for more tips and tricks.



00:00:00 Gig Gab 382 – Monday, May 1st, 2023

00:01:29 Vocal Warm-ups



Straw Training (Negative Air Pressure)

R.E.M.’s Finest Worksong





00:10:12 SPONSOR: Capo is the app that gives you song-learning super-powers. In addition to letting you slow-down and loop sections of songs, capo lifts chords, detects beats, and MUCH more. Visit CapoApp.com from SuperMegaUltraGroovy today.

00:12:11 I Want More Email!



Amanda Palmer 

Follow GigGab on Instagram

Mailchimp

Bandzoogle





00:19:50 The Very Occasional Band

00:26:13 UpTown Celebration Rehearsal, not Practice

00:37:01 Paul’s Central Coast Band



Ron Marks

Everclear’s Brown Eyed Girl





00:49:06 Sennheiser Profile USB-C Streaming Condenser Mic

00:52:55 Mojave Audio MA-D Dynamic Microphone



Heil PR-35





00:57:05 GG 382 Outtro

The NAMM conference is the ultimate destination for music enthusiasts and professionals alike. In this week’s episode of GigGab Podcast, hosts Dave Hamilton and Paul Kent are joined by guest Dan East to discuss his recent experience at NAMM 2023.

The hosts begin the show by acknowledging that NAMM is simply NAMM, and yet, it always manages to bring a sense of excitement and anticipation. They delve into some of the standout moments from Dan’s time at NAMM, starting with their discussion on Max Nudi, a drummer who impressed them with his skills. They also talk about Kickport and Tune-bot Drum Tuners, two products that caught their attention at the conference in years past.

Moving on to the NAMM vibe, they talk about the energy and enthusiasm of the attendees and how it all adds to the overall experience. They also discuss some of the new and exciting bands Dan saw showcased at NAMM 2023, including Jamison Ross, Lawrence, Ali Handal with The RagDolls Band (Aerosmith Tribute), and String Revolution.

The discussion then shifts to Gear Gab – the NAMM edition, where they talk about some of the exciting new gear Dan saw at the conference. They cover a wide range of products, including d&b Audiotechnik Soundscape, Hear Technologies HearBack Pro – Digital Interface, Nord Stage 4, Michael Tobias Design (basses and guitars), Yamaha Electric and Acoustic Guitars, Isaac Jang Acoustic Guitars, Fender’s new guitars, Hammond XK-4, Yamaha’s new DTX with individual sends and tone generator, Efnote Electronic Drums adds a new stage box, Rupert Neve’s 8-unit DI rack – RNDi-8, Yamaha DM3 Mixer, and Yamaha Stage Customs.

To close out the show, they discuss the golden nugget: Eminent Technology’s Model Twenty Thin Speaker, and how it impressed Dan with its clarity and tonality.

In conclusion, NAMM is a one-of-a-kind experience for music enthusiasts and professionals. The hosts and guest of GigGab Podcast 381 offer an insightful discussion on the latest and greatest gear and products from the conference, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in the music industry.



00:00:00 Gig Gab 381 – Monday, April 24th, 2023

00:03:19 Gig Gab Therapy: Always Be Performing

00:04:39 NAMM is (just) NAMM

00:14:36 Give The Drummers Some



Max Nudi Drummer

Kickport

Tune-bot Drum Tuners





00:20:18 SPONSOR: HelloFresh delivers farm-fresh, pre-portioned ingredients and seasonal recipes right to your doorstep. Go to HelloFresh.com/giggab50 and use code giggab50 for 50% off, plus your first box ships free!

00:22:32 The NAMM Vibe

00:30:11 New Shiny Bands At NAMM



Jamison Ross

Lawrence (the band)

Ali Handal with The RagDolls Band (Aerosmith Tribute)

String Revolution





00:33:48 Gear Gab  – The NAMM Edition



d&b Audiotechnik Soundscape

Hear Technologies HearBack Pro – Digital Interface with Dante

Nord Stage 4

Michael Tobias Design (basses and guitars)

When was the last time you just hung out as a band? When bands are touring, this happens all the time. Wedding bands often find themselves spending more time hanging out than playing, just because of the way the schedules often work at those kinds of events. But most bands will get together to rehearse and play gigs…what about spending some downtime together?

Listen as Dave and Paul talk about the benefits of shared downtime, and that conversation evolves into really learning to check in with your band… “reading the tea leaves together” and identifying any potential problem dynamics before they become cancers inside your band.

Finally, Dave has had some good luck and some not so good luck with his studio rig lately…and he shares his findings with all of you.

Press play and enjoy. Oh, and hey… always be performing!



00:00:00 Gig Gab 380 – Monday, April 17th, 2023

00:01:13 Bitter Pill Spends a Band Day Together

00:09:58 SPONSOR: Capo is the app that gives you song-learning super-powers. In addition to letting you slow-down and loop sections of songs, capo lifts chords, detects beats, and MUCH more. Visit CapoApp.com from SuperMegaUltraGroovy today.

00:12:07 Sharing the Tea Leaves

00:27:53 Be Prepared for All Eventualities

00:32:10 Bands are Worth The Effort

00:34:59 Stay away from macOS Ventura with Aggregate Audio Devices

00:36:42 iZotope Ozone 10 for Mastering

00:40:40 GG 380 Outtro



feedback@giggabpodcast.com

Welcome back, Gig Gab listeners! In this week’s episode, your two favorite weekend warriors, Dave Hamilton and Paul Kent, dive into a musical journey that spans centuries and explores the exciting innovations shaping the future of the music industry.

Happy 400th Birthday, Zildjian!

We kick off the episode by celebrating a monumental milestone: Zildjian’s 400th birthday. The company, renowned for its high-quality cymbals, has been a cornerstone of the music world since its inception. We discuss the history and impact of Zildjian, reflecting on how their products have evolved and become an essential part of drummers’ setups across generations.

Stationhead: The Future of Music Streaming

Next, we discuss the exciting new platform, Stationhead, which allows users to stream and listen to music with multiple people simultaneously. This innovative tool is opening up new possibilities for music lovers and creators, making it easier than ever to share and collaborate on music projects. We delve into the features and benefits of this platform and how it can transform the music experience for both artists and listeners.

Gigging…Less

As the landscape of live music shifts, we explore the concept of gigging less and the impact it has on musicians and the industry as a whole. We share our thoughts on the advantages and challenges that come with fewer gigs, touching on topics such as work-life balance, income stability, and the evolving role of the modern musician.

Mark: Ethical Communication in Music

We dive into a listener question from Mark, who asks, “How do you communicate to avoid Ethical Gymnastics?” This prompts a thoughtful discussion about the importance of clear and ethical communication within bands and music collaborations. We share tips and insights on navigating difficult conversations and maintaining a positive and productive environment for all members.

Over-Indulgent Band Members

Lastly, we tackle the issue of over-indulgent band members and how to manage situations where one person’s behavior affects the group dynamic. We provide advice on setting boundaries, addressing issues proactively, and fostering a supportive and cooperative atmosphere within your band.

Always Be Performing

That’s it for this week’s episode of Gig Gab! We hope you enjoyed our discussions on Zildjian’s 400th birthday, the future of music collaboration, and the challenges and rewards of being a modern musician. Don’t forget to share your thoughts and experiences with us by sending your feedback to feedback@giggabpodcast.com.

Stay tuned for more insightful and engaging conversations on Gig Gab, and of course, Always Be Performing!

Chapters



00:00:00 Gig Gab 379 – Tuesday, April 4th, 2023

00:00:55 Happy 400th Birthday, Zildjian!

00:03:31 Stationhead to stream (and listen!) with multiple people simultaneously

00:05:30 Gigging…Less

00:14:02 SPONSOR: Capo is the app that gives you song-learning super-powers. In addition to letting you slow-down and loop sections of songs, capo lifts chords, detects beats, and MUCH more. Visit CapoApp.com from SuperMegaUltraGroovy today.

00:16:45 Mark-378-How do you communicate to avoid Ethical Gymnastics?



An Object Which is Bumping Along Tends to Continue Bumping Along





00:32:59 Over-Indulgent Band-Members

00:38:09 GG 379 Outtro



feedback@giggabpodcast.com