KB'S DIARY: 2ND SHOW IN GUAM
posted in: Music News
When you have the privilege to perform in paradise, as was the case when Clarias performed at the Top of the Mar, it is easy to feel as if nothing can go wrong. However when you are sleep-deprived and performing at Oktoberfest for the Navy, it’s safe to say problems will arise. Touring bands can be built or broken by their ability to troubleshoot when chaos ensues.
For show number two in Guam trouble means a PA system and backline compromised by pilfering past bands combined with heckling by drunken soldiers, not to mention the lead singer’s blown vocals. Presuure mounts as the night’s challenges present themselves. When Clarias takes the stage to perform for a room of service people who are drinking and dining, it remains to be seen if fans will be made.
The band starts big, playing several of their most popular and louder songs. But this is not the best idea when the type of performance needed is really background music for diners. So it’s no surprise that many people leave after dinner although a few people realize the band is worthy of more attention. By the close of the first set, Clarias is frazzled by the audience’s ambivalence and Mike’s ailing vocals.
Backstage, we gather to determine a game plan on how to deal with the hand we are dealt. The solution is to play two more 30 minute sets largely structured to be acoustic with Mike backing off the high notes and the rest of the band mates helping to carry harmonies and banter. Luckily, our refiguration pays off; attendees are still in dining and conversation mode but are quickly becoming a more captive audience.
During the second set break, we decide to have the band play a longer instrumental intro, fire off the power songs minus one song and close big with “American Girl.” The band really steps it up onstage, by attempting some of Mike’s vocal leads as well as assuming a greater presence performance wise. Lead guitarist Paul Lipp is dubbed the evening’s MVP, as he lead the band in a rocking improv that completely captured the attention of the room; winning the crowd (both sober and not-so-sober).
All in all, the evening is a success. Clarias learns some valuable lessons, such as the inherent need to assess each venue/audience and structure a set to best suit said venue/audience as well as the need to troubleshoot vs. submitting to defeat when problems arise. In reality, any touring band could benefit from Clarias’ s experience. The sooner, the better.
-KB