In Dynamics Discuss: The Boileroom & UK Live Music
With Guildford venue the Boileroom facing the possibility of closure, TMMP caught up with Jack Wrench of Sussex math-rockers In Dynamics to discuss the Boileroom and the state of the UK’s live music scene.
This interview is part of a larger TMMP feature which can be read in full here.
What is your general opinion of the Boileroom?
The Boileroom is our favourite live music venue, and they’ve always been good to us there. It’s not only ground zero for up and coming Guildford bands, but also an essential part of the touring circuit – as well as the local community.
How did you feel when you heard about the Boileroom’s current problems?
It was a horrifying prospect for us. The possible closure of such a great venue is a very sad thought indeed.
The Boileroom have always been incredibly vigilant when it comes to noise restrictions. They send contracts to all bands they book, specifically stressing how important it is to close all doors during soundchecks, as well as only loading out when all music has finished.
They are an organised team, whose professionalism and approach to noise restriction stands far above most pubs/bars who seem to be indifferent to the matter. The fact that they are facing possible closure is a genuine shock to us.
What would happen if the Boileroom were to shut down? What impact would that event have?
It would affect us massively as we play there often, but would also be extremely damaging to the vibrant stream of new bands coming from Guildford who rely on the Boileroom to cut their teeth.
What is your favourite Boileroom-related memory?
Our first high profile show as a band in May 2013 was at the Boileroom, as well as our first show at the venue. Arcane Roots asked us to open for them, and it was an incredible evening.
How do you feel about the state of the UK’s live music scene right now? What could be done to improve things?
It’s become incredibly hard to tour at the moment without the help of a booking agent, as most promoters will judge you purely on online presence rather than quality. In our opinion, certainly in Brighton, there need to be more music nights promoting great bands and artists rather than booking whoever can bring the most people. If the night builds a reputation of hosting quality acts, it will draw its own audience and good bands will thrive.
Is there anything else you’d like to add?
Keep supporting live music! We’ll see you all soon x
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