Live Wires 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 livewires@alivenetwork.com or call our agent, Clare Kimble, on 01782 383550.

How is it best to time things?

There are a few points, from our experience, to consider with timing. They are:

- First Dance - It always works best if the first dance is the first song just before the band kicks in, or if the band is playing it, it should be the first song they perform of the evening. This sets the mood for the evening and usually mid way through the song the dance floor is packed and the band can then keep them there for the remaining set!

- Buffet – Arrange the band sets around the buffet. There’s nothing worse than the band playing while people are in the queue for the buffet or sitting down to eat. If the band are doing two sets it’s good to time the buffet so it is served right at the end of the band’s first set.

Can I pick the bands playlist?

We would suggest picking a few songs from the bands playlist that you really want to hear and maybe a few you don’t. Don’t forget the band does this week in week out so we know how to order songs in order for your event to run smoothly and tailor the set to the audience. See our repertoire page for the full list of songs we know!

Where will you travel to?

We will travel to particular counties that work in line with how much we want to travel, this can all be found out when making an enquiry to book us through the website. 

Can I see you play live?

We're afraid the only opportunity to see us perform live is either by attending a wedding or corporate event at which we are performing! Our promo audio aqnd video are a great representation of what we are capable of. Having said that now and again we perform the odd local show around Staffordshire and the best way to find out about that is to follow the band on social media. 

Will you learn our special song?

We are happy to consider learning your first dance. It does depend on whether we think we can do a really good job of it or not. It has to be within our playing style and sound, we wouldn’t like for you to be disappointed with the first song of the night.

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

Yes the videos on our site are a true reflection as these were performed live whilst being filmed so this is the sound we produce at each performance.

How do I book you?

You can book us by calling 01782 383550 or using the booking form or through our agency www.alivenetwork.com.

Are you able to DJ in between sets?

Yes we provide a DJ service in between sets. This involves a band member manning the DJ equipment in between sets and taking requests on the night. We have a laptop with pretty much every song you can think of on and regularly update this.

Can we use your sound system for speeches?

You are welcome to use our sound system but please be aware of the following points:

- We do not use radio mic’s so the tables would need to be near where the band are setting up in order for a lead to reach.
- The PA system is not mobile so once it is set up in place for the band it cannot be moved around the room or into a different room.
- Think about timings as it would cost more for us to arrive early.

What equipment do you use?

- High quality QSC K12 PA system
- Mackie DL32 digital mixing desk
- 2 x Kam LED Power Bars
- High quality Shure and AKG microphones
- Mark Bass Head and Cab
- Bogner Shiva Head
- Tone Tubby Cab
- James Tyler, Suhr and Fender guitars
- Gretsch drums
- Zildian & Sabian cymbals
- Peugeot Boxer Van

Do you have lights?

Yes we have state of the art LED par cans which light up the band and dancefloor.

How long do you play for?

There are three options when booking Live Wires, 2 x 60 minute sets, 3 x 40 minute sets or 2 x45 minute sets.

What time do you start and finish?

Our standard times are to start around 8 and finish at midnight but these can be altered to suit you.

How long do you take to set up?

Our set up time is 45 minutes to 1 hour. The only time it will be more than an hour is if we have to load the gear up flights of stairs of lifts etc.

Can I provisionally book you?

Unfortunately, we don’t take provisional bookings as our demand is such that we would be turning clients away on popular dates. However, when you make an official enquiry with us, your enquiry will be logged in our system and you will be given first refusal on your date should anybody else enquire for the same date.

What if the band split up before my event?

Like many professional party bands, our work is our livelihood and so we take our commitments very seriously.

Due to the band working through Alive Network, it provides you with that extra security because there are hundreds of bands that could be sent to you in the unlikely event that the band split up.

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

We are open to guests joining us but only if they have experience and we can talk about it with them before as we have so much expensive equipment. We know from past experiences that impromptu guests jumping on stage can result in disaster and cost to them/you.

What will the band wear?

We dress formally for most performances, which are shirts and black jeans. If there is a specific requirement please don’t be afraid to ask.

Does the band have PAT and PLI certificates?

Yes we always have up to date PAT and PLI certificates.

Why should I book Live Wires?

We are one of the busiest and experienced bands in the country and this experience and professionalism will make a difference at your event. Nothing is a problem to us as we have travelled all over the country and performed in so many different venues and situations to all kinds of people. We have the repertoire to keep everyone happy and we have some of the highest quality equipment available.

How much does it cost to book the band?

Prices vary on many things such as location of your event, the times you want us there, the time of year etc but our starting price is around £1461.

Can we see some previous client testimonials?

Yes there are hundreds of great testimonials available on our website.Check out our previous client testimonials here!

Do Live Wires have any specific requirements?

We request a room to get changed, soft drinks throughout the duration of our stay and sufficient power supplies at the venue. (See below for more power information)

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

We are able to play at any size venue. There are no venues too large or too small. If it’s a venue that holds over 500 people we may need to discuss the hire of extra PA equipment or an external PA company.

How loud will the band be?

We always tailor our volume levels to each venue. We make sure it is loud enough on the dance floor to make people move but not too loud at the back of the room so the oldies can still chat.

Being a guitar based rock and pop function band, the nature of the music we play means that we can only turn down so far! If your chosen venue has a DB limiter, please discuss this with your agent at the time of your enquiry - There’s every chance that we (or one of our fellow agency bands) have performed at the venue before, but if not, it’s worth discussing to make sure that the performance you will receive from us will not be compromised.

What is the band power requirement?

We require 3 separate 13amp supplies as we have two large power amps that require a certain voltage constantly, if this voltage is not met, when turned on every speaker would blow up and the band would not be able to perform. This is especially to be noted in a marquee situation as people sometimes underestimate the power needed. If you are having a generator the requirements are a 32amp supply just for the band with 13amp sockets attached.