Fully reflecting the contemplative spirit of 2023’s waning hours, I look back upon a successful twelve months with HeathenStorm Productions and the bands I’ve had privilege to work alongside.
Doing my part for old friends and UK scene stalwarts has always been one aspect of why I do what I do. But beyond that, it’s been utterly delightful to bring across some cracking international acts. July’s Chthonic Odio Tour was a challenging step-up, and one mostly kept under control – even if my exuberance did soil the Derby stage on the last night.
Yes, there have been mistakes and missteps along the way. Lessons learned with time, and wisdom gleaned from experience. For that, I am deeply grateful for the patience of promoters, venues and bands who’ve chosen to work with me; passing on their knowledge as I pick up the nuances of tour management and video production alike.
Gratitude is also given to local media campus Production Park for the opportunity to learn Event Management on a more professional level. Finding like-minded, enthusiastic folk within the faculty, I was introduced to many career-boosting opportunities in the industry. Through the Academy of Live Technology, I found many parallels to my prior corporate life, with SWOT analysis and Gantt charts just as important to running a major show as plugging in and turning up loud.
Seldom completely comfortable in any single aspect of life, my strength comes from the unique journey that’s brought me here. When I was corporate, it was the attitude of the music that boosted my career. Now, I bring accountability and structure to the raw passion that compels the chaos.
2024 starts with a bang over the next week as the Mentors tour takes precedence. But after that there’s more international tours to announce, as well as finishing off a few video projects I’ve been working on. And of course, bringing the new Solstice material to completion.
It never ends, and I never want it to. Despite many roadblocks and pitfalls along the way, I couldn’t imagine myself on any other path.
A common signoff, but I’ll repeat it again for reasons which will manifest in the months to come:
Never Surrender!