Sound Driver, a five-piece Indie-Rock band, are midway through a very unusual world tour. Throughout 2009 and in to 2010 they’re taking in some of the world’s most iconic venues as a way of raising awareness for charity The Smile Train. So far on their travels they’ve played Sydney Harbour Bridge and even broken World Records on Mount Kilimanjaro.
Future dates include The Great Wall Of China, Niagara Falls and Dubai’s Burj al Arab hotel, to name but a few of the ever-growing list of dates on this record-breaking extravaganza.
To successfully negotiate such a demanding schedule requires gear that’s compact and lightweight for easy portability, but also solid and reliable enough to deliver quality sound, no matter what the conditions throw at you.
So when it came to wireless in-ear monitoring, wireless microphones and all of the tour’s PA needs, David Spillane, the Chasing Rainbows tour manager, knew that he needed to get companies involved with a track record for both quality and reliability.
Shure has been one of the main sponsors of the Chasing Rainbows Tour, providing all members of the band with top spec in-ear monitoring (PSM600 receivers and transmitters) to ensure quick, wireless and superb quality of sound, no matter what the venue. So far these have proved crucial to the performing and recording of the band.
Shure also provided a UHF-R Series wireless system for lead singer Chad Marriott – something he finds essential due to its immense clarity.
For reproducing the sound, QSC K8 active loudspeakers have been used to stunning effect. These rugged loudspeakers are compact and light enough for the band to carry up Mount Kilimanjaro, yet powerful enough to deliver full, crisp sound courtesy of the 1000W Class D amplifiers that power the QSC K8’s dual drivers.
Tour manager David Spillane said: “Shure is a globally recognised brand, and along with the global nature of The Chasing Rainbows Tour, this makes them a perfect brand partner. Shure products always perform at the level we expect – and even more so with the extra demands of this tour.”
Leading record producer, Danton Supple has been on hand to capture the band live at the summit and they’ve also been filmed by BAFTA award-winning cameraman Mark McCauley, who has been editing his footage on location and providing uploads to the tour’s dedicated website.
“We’re delighted to have been able to help the band with this incredible achievement.” commented Peter James Managing Director of Shure Distribution UK. “It’s challenging enough to just climb Kilimanjaro, but gigging when you reach the summit takes an extra special effort and massive determination. Shure and QSC products are tested to extremes so we were happy to provide the band with microphone, PA and monitoring gear that was up to the task.”
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