Quirky Austin singer-songwriter Guy Forsyth is taking the idea behind CD release parties to new heights...or lows, depending on your perspective.
Sure, it’s understandable for a band from our metroplex to play release shows in Dallas, Ft. Worth and Denton because they might want to help out fans who might be strapped for gas cash. But, what's really the motivation for Forsyth behind this move? Forsyth (his band, the Asylum Street Spankers, is renowned for its warped take on Americana) is throwing release parties for his new solo disc, Unrepentant Schizophrenic Americana, in pretty much every city throughout the state.
The first release party is in Austin at Antone’s on May 16th.
Then it’s off to San Antonio for a party there the next evening.
Dallas’ Granada Theater hosts a Forsyth party on the 23rd.
Parties in Houston and at the famous Gruene Hall close out the month.
Talk about a false sense of exclusivity. Projected out to its illogical extreme, every tour to promote a new disc can claim each stop on the road as a CD release party. --Darryl Smyers
I remember when Jimmie Vaughan came to Dallas for a CD release party. I wasn't able to make it down to Austin to see him at Antones. But I did make the show at the Granada and then headed over to the Green Room afterwards for the after party. I got to shake the man's hand, have my picture taken, get my CD signed, plus got a signed version of the album cover which is now hanging proudly in my rehearsal space.
I think more artists should ignore your criticism and get on the fan friendly band wagon. The music business is changing. And connecting with fans is what it's all about.
Michael
Posted at: May 13, 2008 4:13 PM