The Noisey Guide to Putting on a House Show

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JD Future Legends & Noisey present THE NEXT ON TOUR series of summer gigs. Hitting six metro and regional cities around the nation, THE NEXT ON TOUR will showcase some of Australia’s rising musical talent. Every show is free but you need to RSVP now!

There are many reasons for hosting a house show. You may live in a town or area with no good venues; perhaps a touring band is looking for an extra gig. Maybe you just can’t be bothered leaving the house but feel like some rock and roll action in the living room on Friday night.

House gigs are rad. Everyone seems to get a bit wilder than a regular show and all kinds of ‘no good’ tends to happen. The downside is that they are pretty easy to screw up.

But don’t worry; we’ve got you covered. Here are some ways to make your house show one of the best shows of the year.

Make It a Banging Lineup
This may seem obvious but you’d be surprised how many people book their girlfriends or housemates’ lame band, the one that plays that really bad Smashing Pumpkins cover. Your home is your sanctuary and your house show is a reflection of your impeccable musical taste. If you book Janice and the Jumpstars or something like Blues Hammer from Ghost World, we guarantee you people will be walking out your door (and possibly your life).

Social Media
Every gig relies on Facey to get people through the door and house gigs are no different. Just be careful that your social event doesn’t spread like a social disease and results in 600 people coming through the door, the back door, and over the fence. Set the event to private and monitor how many people are going to be attending. Alternatively, and for extra cool/mystery points, you can keep the address hidden and announce the house/venue on the day of the event. Just make sure the bands know where they are playing.

Smoke Machine/Disco Ball
People associate a disco ball with disco music. This is wrong. With the right amount of enthusiasm (and inebriation) a disco ball (added with a smoke machine) goes well with indie rock, hardcore punk squall and thumping techno bangers. The glitter, the glam and the glorified good times that come from a plastic ball purchased at a dollar store is priceless.

Short Sets
Twenty-minutes tops. No excuses.

Warn the Neighbours
Some people suggest warning the neighbours about any upcoming soiree that will involve loud music and people arguing outside their windows at 3am. Warning them about a gig is ok; actually inviting them to it is not. They are your neighbours not your slam dancing buddies.

Pay the Band
Whether it’s cash or beer, make sure that whoever plays gets paid. Pass a hat or collect money on entrance. The band need something even if it’s just for taxis or petrol money.

This article is presented in partnership with JD Future Legends

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