Are you a local singer-songwriter, band, producer or some other artist working in the local music scene who recorded a demo and want feedback and creative criticism about what you did right and/or what you should do differently/modify/re-think? Creative Loafing and WMNF present the return of the ever-popular Demo Listening Session as part of the pre-Heat Panels in the CL Space from noon to 4 p.m. Sat., May 12, and are currently seeking submissions.
Demo listening sessions give you the chance to get feedback from the sort of folks whose job description includes listening to demos and recognizing the ones with potential – music professionals like booking agents, talent buyers, radio show hosts, label reps and music critics. The pre-Heat Demo Listening takes place from 1 to 1:45 p.m., and confirmed panelists include Alastair St. Hill of WMNF's Grand National Championships; Craig Adams (Lovers Lament Entertainment); and Ed Lowery (Magadog). I will also be chiming in and moderating the panel.
Read more about previous demo listening sessions here and here. Basically, we will play one song off each of the three to four selected discs at the listening session on May 12, and give the bands/artists our direct comments and feedback in this live setting. At least one member of the bands that have been selected will need to be present — otherwise, who will be be giving the feedback to? Also, we'll be selecting one disc on site, so if you don't get picked in advance, come to the listening anyway, bring your demo, and you still might have a shot of taking part.
Submit your advance demo today via zipped attachment or download link (please don't send individual MP3s) to preheat@creativeloafing.com, or mail a CD to Creative Loafing ℅ Pre-Heat, 1911 N. 13th St. #W-200, Tampa, FL 33605. You have until Wednesday, May 9, to get your demo to the CL Offices, whichever way you choose to send it.
Not every demo submitted will be listened to on-site. As stated previously, we will be choosing three or four from the submissions we receive in advance, and will be notifying the bands that they have been chosen to ensure their presence at the listening — and we will be selecting one at random live on site, so show up if you still want the chance to participate. But regardless of whether we listen to your down demo or not, you'll undoubtedly learn something about how to present your music simply by attending. Trust me on this one.
This article appears in Apr 5-11, 2012.