Sunday, March 2, 2008

19 bands in 5 days.


Just wrapped on shooting the Noise Pop 2008. Out of all the 19 bands I've worked with this week, only 2 of them were remotely enjoyable. Of them, only 1 one would I even consider buying their CD. Unfortunately for them, I haven't purchased a CD since the late 90's. It's hard to start paying for something that you used to get for free. I guess I shouldn't complain about the day rates bands hire me for then...

The band is called OR, The Whale. They've been described as "a charming form of countrified pop" and "alternative country". Which is weird, because I don't like country or pop. I'd describe them as a "good band to see while drunk", which I was. Very much so. Each night, each group of 3 camera men were allotted a budget for drinks to be billed directly to the production. Some of the shows were just open bar for the camera operators. I love my job.

The other band I thought was pretty entertaining was The Airborne Toxic Event. Not from a musical stand point, they just had a good presence on stage and were fun to film. All the camera crew were squealing and giggling about how they got this one really 'epic shot', or how we captured a ton of 'golden moments' after their set.

Noise Pop 2008 was a good gig. Met a ton of new local HD shooters, sound engineers, and some cute PA girls (production assistants). Also made a fair amount a spending money for Japan. But probably the biggest benefit to taking this job was the endurance training. 5 late nights of loud music, hand held camera work, and lots of booze has prepared me for my next job. I leave for Japan 1 week from now to tour with Insolence and 10-FEET.

EDIT: I felt bad and bought Or, The Whale's debut CD "Light Poles and Pines" for $11.98 HERE

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