Originally posted by Giles:
no, what I'm angry about is that for a city that seems to be 'internationally attune' and should be a stop for UK/international bands those band promoters bypass DC the first time around since a) the 9:30 is very picky who they will book or not book, another venue would have taken that chance. Buzz should have a venue with an actual stage and we could have seen Simian Mobile Disco last year. It took two Baltimore Hot Chip shows before DC got a proper in town show. I'm just pissed that the tour dates for many UK bands doesn't include DC as often as it should - another venue would have filled in that gap - yet Seth and co. don't go the extra 100% or even allow a competing venue the chance. Thankfully the Rock and Roll Hotel is willing and able to book up and coming new UK bands, the Black Cat's recent inability to book any band of major interest is terribly lacking - although the AUTECHRE and BRITISH SEA POWER show are definately on my must see list. [/QB]
I live in NYC now (previously in DC) and had a lot of the gripes youre complaining about (and no this isnt why i left dc). so -- heres what ive learned (and no it wont really help you).
most the UK bands that come through NYC are not playing 9:30 club sized venues the first time they come around. We have much more smaller venues that they can play here *and* attract a fan-base. Even tho I'd argue most these shows are filled with all ex-pats from the UK.
staying on topic:
The Wombats - 3/17 - The Annex (sold-out)
Ash - 3/17 - Music Hall of W'burg
Pigeon Detectives - Bowery Ballroom
ps most these bands play 2-3 cities max. NYC and SF/LA. There is a huge scene for them there. You may need to move if thats what youre looking for. And these bands WILL sell out the venues here whereas in DC its not as likely.
