Brisbane heavy rockers, Flannelette have just released their new EP Valley Nights. These guys are no strangers to touring obscure and remote towns including Toowoomba, St. George, and Dalby. Since forming in 2012 they’ve been constantly gigging up and down Australia’s east coast.
Having just wrapped up their Valley Nights tour, the boys have put together a list of 9 easy to follow regional touring tips for us amateurs.
Remember To Fuel Up
“We’ve forgotten twice…for whatever reason. It makes for a very stressful final 30 minutes to get to your destination.”
Get Your Vehicle Serviced By A Reliable Mechanic
“We’ve spent several hours on the side of the road waiting for a tow in the middle of nowhere.”
If You Go To An After Party Don’t Take All Of The Women
“The locals get very jealous.”
Assure Accommodation Is Sorted And Clearly States What You Are Going To Get
“We played and were meant to stay at this venue in Newcastle. We got there and no one knew we were staying there. This resulted in waiting until 3am until the bar staff snuck us upstairs to ensure the owners didn’t know we were actually staying there.”
If The Venue Says They Have A PA- Still Take A PA With You
“Most regional venues think a PA consists of one 12-inch speaker made in the 1980s and one microphone and stand.”
No Gig Is Child’s Play
“For our gig in Dalby, we loaded into a kids play area that we had to kick the kids out of. Then managed half our first song before the 1980’s PA blew up. Which resulted in no pay.”
Always Stay Within Walking Distance Of The Local Service Station, Or If They Have One The McDonalds
“This ensures you will always be able to get something to eat if the kitchen is closed or when you’re wandering back to bed after the after party.”
Don’t Go Wandering Around By Yourself
“Always take EVERY member of your band with. You don’t want to go anywhere by yourself…. as you may never come back. Also phone reception is dodgy most of the time – it makes it hard to find people in a hurry.”
Learn A Few Covers (Re: The AC/DC Back Catalogue)
“It goes down a real treat with the locals. If they know it and can sing along they will love your originals. At all costs avoid The Gambler and Keh Sanh.”
To find out where they’re touring next or to pick up a copy of Flannelette’s EP is now available at www.flannelette.com
