Top 10 Traits of Great Dance Bands
Finding the right band for your special event can be a daunting task. With so many groups to choose from, all with good reviews, professional videos, website and audio samples, how do you really know if a band is great? First and foremost, trust your ears. Then check out these top 10 traits of great dance bands.
#10 The Words
High-level professional vocalists will memorize the lyrics. This means no IPads on mic stands for the front line of vocalists. The results are inspired and heart-felt performances, not karaoke style lyric reading.
#9 Hear the Difference
Great bands don't skimp on sound production. Instead they use powerful PA systems with subwoofers and side-fills for maximum room coverage. In volume sensitive situations, an accommodating band will use drum shields and electronic drums to reduce volume. In-ear monitors further reduce stage volume, so your guests can talk during dinner without being overpowered by the band.
#8 Lights. Camera. Action.
High level production includes LED video panels. Guests will enjoy a concert vibe with custom content, strobes, and fades applied to the beat of the music. Colors, brightness, and content can be adjusted to create the perfect ambience.
#7 Break Music
Accommodating bands won't require you to provide an iPod or iPhone to play on breaks. Instead, you should simply submit a list of the music you want played, and have your band load their own laptop and playlist for playback. Beware of any bands tasking you with these responsibilities.
# 6 So Fresh and So Clean
Great productions have a clean look on-stage and off. This means no random cables all over the stage, no dangling cords from lighting, and no piles of guitar cases and road cases side-stage. Expect your band to keep the stage clean for photos and video.
#5 Multiple Vocalists
If you require a band that performs multiple genres, and you don't want the same cookie-cutter generic vocalists singing all of them, then you're going to need several vocalists. Look for bands that have authentic vocalists specializing in their respective genres.
#4 Three-Part Harmony
Drunken sailors are okay with no vocal harmony, but a trained and discerning ear demands more. Any great dance band should have at least 3 vocalists singing in harmony on nearly every song.
#3 Choreography & Interaction
High quality bands should have choreography and involve in LOTS of interaction. The entire front line of vocalists and horn section should be entertaining, not just performing. Band members should join members on the dance floor, and guests should join the band on stage for epic sing-a-longs. Nobody likes a boring band.
#2 Reviews
Nearly all professional bands have positive reviews. That's why it's important to read all the reviews from as many different sites as you can find. Recurring negative reviews are a good indicator of what to expect on your event. Talk to venues, planners, and other vendors about your band, and make a fully informed decision.
#1 Showcase
How do you know if the band is any good in person? Go see a showcase! RSVP LINK
All things considered, always trust your ears. Is the audio great, or just good?
