After intense discussions especially between SDAC and EOX, we have decided to no longer pursue live shows.
In other words: We are not going to play live shows anymore.
The following text comes from me, EOX, so I´m speaking mainly for myself.
In its effect, we have removed the LIVE SHOW section from our menu. Reasons for that decision exist more than enough, at least from our side, and while we are not going to explain each and every one of them, a few “memorable mentions” will happily be provided below (for those who didn´t notice, this was sarcasm). Also, some options for social media and shopping have been deleted too.
As for the reasons (some of them):
1. A lack of support from local persons we relied on heavily
We had hopes to inject more energy and drive into our project by integrating more people for tasks like social presence or organizing live shows. As no tangible results were achieved, we decided to close this chapter.
2. The focus from local organizers to invite foreign projects instead of local ones
We were actively seeking opportunities to participate in bigger local festivals. Unfortunately, not only we never have received one single answer (not even a “Thanks, but no, thanks.”). Also, focussing on foreign acts does not help local projects at all…but sure it leaves more money to the corresponding organizers. Because money makes the world go around…
3. Conditions for playing live
Unfortunately we are living in a time, where everyone makes money from music – except the musicians. For local bands/acts/projects this means: Not only they/we don´t get paid – well, I won´t ignore that we have been offered beer in exchange for playing (sarcasm again). Don´t get us wrong: This is not about making tons of money, it is about investment of time, work and equipment, paying bills etc. As this is not valued at all, and there are other bands who are happy to play under this conditions (we don´t condemn them!), well…we will leave those organizers alone and don´t bother them anymore.
4. Unfullfilled agreements
We had some verbal agreements with local acts to help and support each other. While Foco eX always did his part, there has never been a reciprocity. Ever. We were good enough to provide remixes or give technical support, but nothing has ever come in return. For us this means: This ends here. We´ve got enough of people who only call or write a message, when they need help, and then…Silence again. We won´t expect anything anymore from anyone…and those shouldn´t expect anything from us.
If you find bitterness and sadness in these words: yes, there´s lots of it. But we are not here to change the system, nor we are willing. We leave this to Don Quijote.
Also, as I, EOX announced months ago to move to another country (this happened on Facebook), this will make some things easier: Focus on this change, learning a new language, work on music peacefully and without pressure and maybe releasing something once in a while.
I know we won´t be missed.
EOX