Unsigned Artists

How do you..

*Plan ahead of time, aside from booking shows?

Make sure we have enough merchandise (which we base on sales from previous tours) when we leave so we don’t have to spend extra on shipping to get more stuff on the road. Make plans for days off that involve swimming, camping, and other activities that lift the spirit. Stock up on filters for filtering grease into our fuel tank. Call friends around the country so they are aware we’re coming to their cities.

*Budget money while on tour?

When in doubt, always be thrifty. You never know when you’re going to have to make a necessary large purchase to continue the tour. We make bank deposits every 2-3 days. It helps to have a bank that is national. We do $10 perdiums. Dinner is provided by the club either in the form of a buyout or a hot meal.

*Stay healthy/eat well?

Personally, I order vegan rations before leaving. Check out this website: www.foodfight.com. They have some cool products that don’t need to be refrigerated. Avoiding fast food is key, but often difficult. Eat early, because you may not have time the rest of the day.

*Find a place to crash?

After years of touring, we’ve built up an extensive network of friends around the country that are more than willing to have us crash at their place. Being honest and sincere is a great way to get invited back to some very hospitable places.

*Pass time on really long drives?

Singalongs, working on my laptop, getting much needed rest, reading, playing Xbox, stopping to toss a frizbee, and jazz sticks.

*Get people to remember your name?

Play well and have great merchandise. If you are on a support tour, put a bunch of posters up around the club so people know what other bands they are seeing. Collect email addresses and encourage people to find you on myspace and add your band so they can know about your other shows.

Tracy McLaughlin

p.s. Catch Luke on tour with Piebald in Illinois, Minnesota, Iowa, Kansas, and Colorado this week :)