Blue Note Mitch and The Red Hot Jacks Most Frequently Asked Questions

Below are all of the questions we could remember having been asked in the past. If you have a question that's not on here, please feel free to email bluenotemitch@alivenetwork.com or call our agent, Alive Network, on 01782 740839.

How much space do you need?

A minimum of 3m deep by 5m wide.

How is it best to time things?

We will run to your timetable but feel free to ask us for suggestions.

Can I pick the bands playlist?

You cannot pick the band's play list but you can say which songs from our repertoire you prefer and give us an indication of whether you wish the party to start gentle or kick off with up beat tunes. We will always pace a performance according to your wishes, as long as we know in advance. A five-minute chat on the phone would normally tell us everything we need to know in order to give you the night you are looking for.

Where will you travel to?

Anywhere as long as the price is right.

Can I see you play live?

We don't often play at open gigs but we can keep you informed of any opportunity to see us play live.

Will you learn our special song?

We will be happy to learn a song of your choice.

Is the video on your website a true reflection of the band?

The video is now dated but we do have plans to create a new video in the near future.

How do I book you?

Check our availability here, or contact Alive Network and ask for our availability and prices.

Are you able to DJ in between sets?

We are happy to play a play list of your choice on an iPod or put your own iPod or laptop through our PA.

Can we make DJ requests in advance to my event?

Yes.

Can we use your sound system for speeches?

Yes.

What equipment do you use?

We have a 2.5Kw PA with a small lighting rig big enough to illuminate the band and create movement on the ceiling and dance floor.

Do you have lights?

Yes.

How long do you play for?

Approximately two hours as standard but more if requested for an extra fee.

What time do you start and finish?

Anytime between 7pm and 12am as standard but at a different time for an extra fee if requested.

How long do you take to set up?

About ninety minutes.

Can I provisionally book you?

We can pencil a date in and let you know if we get offered another gig on that day but we're not guaranteed to be yours until you have signed a contract and paid a deposit.

What if the band split up before my event?

We have played together and known each other for many years. In the event that one member cannot play we employ someone to fill in. This is called 'depping'. All of our deps are highly experienced professional musicians whom we have known and performed with for many years. This scenario would in no way lower the quality of the music for the evening.

Can my sisters/bosses/daughters dog sing with your band?

Yes, but only if agreed in advance. We would avoid encouraging people to get up and have a go spontaneously in order to maintain the professional integrity and quality of the music on the night.

What will the band wear?

The band always look smart, in suits, shirts and ties etc. and extra smart for a jazz/swing set in a very posh venue or when the client required it (i.e. dickey bows/tuxedos etc.).

Does the band have PAT and PLI certificates?

Yes, available on request.

Why should I book Blue Note Mitch & The Red Hot Jacks?

If it's an excellent quality dance band of professional musicians with plenty of energy and experience, then we're the band for you. Please see our feedback here for evidence of the many happy clients we have played for.

How much does it cost to book the band?

The price varies depending on where you are, how many sets you want and what size band you want. The best thing is to make an enquiry with Alive Network and they will give you an exact price.

Can we see some previous client testimonials?

Yes we have dozens on our previous client testimonials page.

Do Blue Note Mitch & The Red Hot Jacks have any specific requirements?

Yes, we need to be fed with something warm, having often travelled for several hours, and also a place to get changed in.

What type/size venues are you able to play at?

We have played at a huge variety of venues ranging from very small marquees and bars up to huge hall such as Sheffield City Hall as well as stately homes around the UK.

How loud will the band be?

As loud as you want us to be, we have full control over our sound and are willing to work within yours and the venue's boundaries.

What is the band power requirement?

Two plug sockets. At the absolute maximum we would draw 5Kw of power.

Do The Red Hot Jacks offer any additional services?

Yes. Extra sets, larger band, late finish, early start.