They say you know you’re getting old when you attend more funerals than weddings per annum. I don’t get invited to weddings anymore (one of the joys of having a small child – people think he’s going to get into the cake or something? actually more than likely) but I am a bit worried about band demise in my vicinity these days…
First one to go was Mother Vulpine, a band I interviewed and had tipped for good things: split up due to creative differences. Then the Acutes; then Vatican Jet. I was starting to feel like Typhoid Mary. But then i got over myself and realised that it was a more serious pandemic of splitilitis – bands that had showed unfailing resilience and a great deal of promise were just tossing it in and taking up, I dunno, jobs in accounting.
These past weeks, Leeds has seen the death of This Et Al and Shut Your Eyes And You’ll Burst Into Flames, two very original, very likeable and utterly danceable bands that should have had long and happy lives. Now I read that Newcastle’s Kubichek! have called it a day – another band packed to the eyebrows with potential. What’s happening, kids?
I’m not going to have a go – this is more of an appeal than anything. Gig goers, music appreciators, downloaders, bit-streamers, you tubers – anyone who likes music that hasn’t been prepackaged for maximum commercial impact – get up, get out… and get off the beaten track. That band you’ve heard so much but never seen? Go and see them – your soul will love you for it. Become part of the vibe and prevent another death through apathy or any number of reasons. You like music? Unless you make it, you’re going to have to support it – that’s your responsibility. And what an enjoyable responsibility it is too.
Besides, local bands play in venues with cheaper nicer beer on the whole – everyone’s a winner!
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