Thoughts On The 6/20 80s Invasion Gig
Yesterday’s gig at the High Dive in Fremont took place on the same day as the Fremont Solstice Parade, which involves all manner of fun and big crowds. I enjoy the atmosphere of these events because everyone is always in such joyous spirits. Our show was earlier than the usual bar gig; we played from 6:00 PM until 8:15 PM for a pretty solid and enthusiastic crowd. It’s clear that Mona and Paul are becoming more confident in their roles as lead singers. Both of them are developing some faithful fans in the audience who know them by name and chant for more when songs are finished. Good stuff. I’m finding myself more “present” during our set, with a stronger connection to music and bandmates.
Yesterday was also the debut of my new wireless setup, a Line6 XDS-Plus digital system. During my years in Jumbalassy I tested a number of wireless systems and found they always colored my guitar tone. Generally, wireless systems don’t have sufficient dynamic range to deliver an instrument signal. The strategy has always been to compress the signal before sending then attempt to expand it at the receiving end. This “compansion” system always results in noticeable changes to the sound of the instrument. I enjoyed the freedom of wireless setups, but after putting so much work into good tone it was a disappointment to have it degraded by the technology. The Line6 system is pure digital 24-bit 128-times oversampled, with a dynamic range of over 118 dB. It also boast a “zero configuration” setup; just plug it in and go. The on possible adjustment is to change the channel. I unpacked the system during soundcheck, plugged in and instantly had it working perfectly. By time we had done our second song of the night I had completely forgotten it was even there. During “Walk Like An Egyptian” I jumped off the stage to boogie with my wife in the audience. This system works perfectly and exactly as advertised. Hooray! It’ll be lots of fun for larger stages.
The show this weekend went really well. 80s Invasion is sounding better all the time and I think the band is beginning to develop a solid following. We have a number of good events lined up for the summer. Hope we see you at some of them!