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The UK's top ska tribute band | |||
Frequently Asked Questions
Here you can find answers to common questions about the band and how we work. Please contact us if you have any other questions.
How can I hire the band?
You can make a booking request by email at therefinements@gmail.com or by speaking directly to Rich on 07957 535535 or Chris on 07806 564386. You can also use our online contact form.
How much does it cost to hire the band?
Our fees vary according to the equipment required, amount of time we'll be playing for and the distance that we'll have to travel (most of us are based in London). We regularly check prices of bands of our size and quality, and consistently undercut our competition while providing a fantastic, entertaining experience. We believe we are the best ska covers band in the UK, and if you book us we will be happy to prove it!
What kind of deposit is required? Can you provide an invoice/contract?
We require a small 10% deposit (non-refundable) in order to secure the gig date you require, which can be paid either via cheque or via bank transfer. We will send you (normally via post) a contract to sign that sets out exactly when, where and how long the band will play for, and what fee we have agreed in return - this is for the protection of both parties. We will also enclose an invoice for your records.
Can you pencil a date in the diary for me?
Unfortunately we cannot reserve a gig date without a deposit. This is because we often have several enquiries for the same date, so we operate a system where paying the deposit for the gig reserves that gig date. We've found this to be the fairest system all round.
How long do you play for?
We normally perform two sets of 45mins each, with at least a 30 minute break in-between to cool down! We're able to change this to fit your requirements, however we have consistently found this "two set" format to work best.
What is your set list?
Please click here to see our current set list.
Can you provide background music from an iPod?
We can provide background music from an iPod before we play, and between sets, if required. This service is free of charge, but must be mentioned at the time of booking. We can provide a wide variety of music, however we've found that Trojan Ska and Reggae tracks tend to go down best with the crowds. We are also happy to play music from your own iPod/MP3 player, providing that it has a standard small headphone input (3.5mm jack input) that we can connect to our PA system.
I've never booked a band before - how do I do it?
Don't worry, it's very simple. To get started, fill in our online contact form, send an email to therefinements@gmail.com or call Rich on 07957 535535 or Chris on 07806 564386.
How many of you are there?
The band is currently a six piece - vocals, bass, guitar, drums, keys and sax. Most of us also sing backing vocals. There's a wide variety of ages and backgrounds in the band - see more about us here. What has brought us together is a love of ska music, and a passion for playing live music.
Do you have any testimonials?
Yes - we have lots of positive testimonials from previous clients, and these can be verified..
Can you provide a larger PA system/lighting equipment?
We have our own high quality 2.6kW PA system, which is large enough for most venues that we play. It's suitable for a crowd of up to 250 people. We also provide stage lighting and dancefloor lighting as standard. If required, we are happy to source a larger PA system for your event for a reasonable fee.
How long does it take the band to set up? How long does it take the band to load out at the end of the gig?
We require two hours maximum to load in, set up and soundcheck. We require up to one hour at the end of the gig to break down equipment and load out.
Can you set up before our guests arrive?
For private functions e.g. weddings, we are able to arrive early in the day in order to set up and soundcheck before your guests arrive, however there may be an additional charge for this - please discuss the band arrival time with us when you book.
How much space do you need to play in?
We require a flat space of at least 4 metres by 5 metres (13' x 6') to play in. We're able to play with or without a stage, indoors or outdoors, providing that the performance area is flat and dry. For outdoor performances, a marquee or some kind of roof covering is essential to ensure that we can use our PA equipment safely if we get some good old British rain!
What do you need from the venue in order to perform?
We will provide a Venue Checklist with your contract and invoice that explains our requirements from venues. This needs to be signed, dated and sent back to us with your contract and deposit.
Do you have Public Liability Insurance (PLI)?
Every band member is individually covered by PLI to the value of £1million per head via JLT Insurance. A copy of our insurance certificate can be provided on request.
Is your electrical equipment PAT tested?
All of our mains-powered electrical equipment has current PAT (portable appliance testing) certification. A copy of our testing certificate can be provided on request.
What do you wear on stage?
We're proud of the fact that we always look the part when we play live. Expect tonic suits, loafers and sharp shirts... you can see how we look on stage on our photos page.
Can I see the band before booking?
Absolutely - please come along to one of our public gigs and say hi. The only way to really get a feel for the energy and quality of the band is to see us play live. Click here to see upcoming gig dates.
What if I rearrange/cancel a booking?
If need to rearrange or cancel a booking, we would ask that you provide us with as much notice as possible. This is to allow us to offer the original date to other potential clients. Any deposit paid to secure a gig date is non-refundable.