The Checkmates Reformation Plan

After the Checkmates gig, Graham and I swapped thopughts on doing some more gigs in 2012. We were delighted when Raye bought into the idea as well. Of course anyone who knows me knows I have to have a master plan, so here it is:

CHECKMATEERS DEVELOPMENT CAMPAIGN 2012 +

1) BACKGROUND
Following a discussion Adrian and Graham had about the possibility of doing occasional gigs together with or without Raye, this document has been drafted to set out a development campaign outlining aspirations / issues to secure buy in by the parties.
2) STRENGTHS
Adrian and Graham have many years experience playing in and operating bands leading to ‘know how’ in:
· Playing and singing
· Vocal harmonies
· Repertoire selection sensitivity to audiences
· Showmanship and bantering
· Music Tech
· Sound quality
3) MISSION
To efficiently put together a musically versatile and entertaining small combo capable of successfully playing a wide range of club, dance and function gigs.

This ‘band’ will gig occasionally as:
a) “The Checkmates” with Raye as now
b) A version of the “Checkmates” without Raye if he is not available
c) A Rock’n’ Roll group – specialising in pre 1962 repertoire e.g. “The Rockmates”. Graham can use double bass and Mog a semi-acoustic?
d) A versatile group with a quality repertoire mix from the 50s-60s-70s eras + function and some contemporary e.g. “The Beatmates”
Raye needs to “Buy In” to this concept if we are serious about using the “****Mates” name!

We are in it primarily for enjoyment so let’s cultivate a democratic band culture around a good atmosphere of mutual respect and tolerance.
4) MARKET
Social clubs, dances, functions. The band is aiming for a few (say up to 9 ) gigs per annum. Gigs to be sourced from existing contacts e.g. direct with clubs and promoters or people who know the band members; or via agents. The band doesn’t mind travelling for gigs. Band fees are not too important but we should aim to at least cover costs with concessions for good causes.
5) REPERTOIRE
a) Specialising in 50s-60s-70s eras. The existing Checkmates repertoire can be built on with classic songs from those eras: e.g. Beatles, Stones, Who, Kinks, Searchers, Hollies, Animals, Eagles, Queen etc. Band members should put forward some of their favourites for inclusion in the repertoire and feel free to veto a few artistes / songs they particularly don’t like.
b) We want to develop an additional repertoire of about 20 Dinner Dance and Country Function songs I.e. low key guitar instrumental features and do some vocal waltzs, foxtrots, samba etc
c) We are up for bringing in some contemporary hits e.g. Take That, Comic Relief!
6) PERFORMANCE:
a) We want to be slick in performing.
b) Strict Set Lists vs Freeform: Propose we combine the best of both worlds by having some fixed sequences of several numbers coupled to a freeform approach to reading the audience and exercising the repertoire.
c) The vision is to gig using a double Bose L1 PA; but we have loads of music equipment between us so gigging even large venues will not be a problem.
7) KEY ISSUES
a) Default is existing 3 piece format – but we can increase band size if there is a good case!
b) If Raye is not available, we want an experienced, versatile drummer (ideally with some vocals) to dep for occasional gigs. Graham contacts? Can Raye recommend someone?
c) Getting gigs. Propose we source several in Sussex at known venues (e.g.Hassocks Social) to exercise the concept before taking it further afield – Graham’s existing contacts?
d) Timing: other than taking selected Checkmates opportunities that may crop up, it is proposed we make the new band a project to commence from Spring 2012
8) OTHER ISSUES TO ADDRESSED AS WE TAKE IT FORWARD:
a) Stage Wear: Black trousers, shirt / waistcoat policy?
b) Props: Wigs and Other Dressing Up Stuff?
c) Web Site, Photo’s and Marketing Collateral.
d) Demo CD DVD: We have the gear to record the band at home or in a hall
e) Agents and Gigs: Each member of the band to look after their contacts for gigs and agents.
f) Practice and Rehearsals: Efficient Approach: The aim is to achieve a clear understanding of a song before the band meets for rehearsal. Song arrangements to be set out in writing and communicated along with sound tracks for home practice first. Then aim for a handful of constructive whole band rehearsal sessions based on individuals having done their homework.