A Band's Natural Progression

Each of the members of Signal 8 have played with other bands and bring to the table a plethora of experience.  Some bands have a good rapport right off the bat and others simply look like they are going through the motions, playing well, but couldn't give a rip about their band mates - and it reflects in their playing.  Conversely, when a group of people genuinely like each other and genuinely like what they are performing, that too will be apparent.

Most people would rather spend their time watching a band that may not be completely technically correct in their playing, but have a great time and share that emotion with the audience.  For some bands, this is natural, for other bands it takes a little time to develop.  The progression really is quite simple and it is similar to any work environments where the staff enjoys the work.  First, the "get to know you" phase where band members play together and learn the styling and personality of other members.  Second, there is the "I know you, get serious" phase where a set lest is established and agreed upon by band members.  Third, "I like it" stage where the members are comfortable with one another and they are enjoying their groove.  Lastly, "let's have fun" phase takes over and that is where the differences lie between a band that puts on a great show and those who don't.

You see, we of Signal 8 aren't just musicians.  We are also audience members who enjoy a good show and particularly those of local artists.  When we're out and about, there is always an opportunity to enjoy the playing of local musicians and we encourage you to do the same.  

Let's be honest - a lot of bands out there are busting ass to get a record deal, desiring to become stars.  That's all well and good and that is a noble pursuit, one that takes perseverance and determination.  Usually, there are one or two members of a band that are the leadership team - kind of like Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley are for KISS - and that leadership team is always scouring the countryside for musicians who have talent and are more talented than the people they are replacing.  And they do a lot of replacing.  Most of the time, these bands have an overinflated sense of self-worth and that is truly sad.  The bands with high aspirations make these mistakes and the news travels quickly in the musician community.

On the other hand, you have your party bands and your jam bands and your club bands who are perfectly content sharing their music in smaller venues and they just want to have fun by entertaining.  Club owners, party organizers, and event coordinators understand this and while they want talented bands, they also want people who have fun and will create an environment for their patrons to enjoy themselves.

Bands will always be progressing in one way or another.  Either they increase the fun factor, or they will suck.  That's the bottom line.

In our opinion...

Signal 8 Band

 

Dean Johnson (Drums, Vocals)
Rick Jackson (Bass, Vocals)
Ron Black (Guitar, Silly Faces)