Musicians adapt to pandemic
that’s slowing down you really do have to look at other ways to stay afloat.’’
Their album Red is still set to release on April 3, but launch parties have been replaced by a live set that will be recorded in VR and released on social media.
Martin said that at a time of such uncertainty, moving online and creating live streams was the way the music industry would need to go to interact with fans and remain on the music scene while mass gatherings were off.
And while it had taken some time for what was happening to actually sink in for the band, Martin believes the New Zealand industry will continue to thrive.
‘‘We’re a hardy bunch, we’ll bounce back. Things could be worse, things could be a lot worse.’’
On Thursday, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern announced social gatherings of more than 100 people were banned, causing dozens of festivals, concerts and events to be cancelled or postponed. New Zealand’s largest independent radio station, Radio Active, has also been working with local musicians to provide livestreaming equipment and facilities.
‘‘It has very quickly become a very hard situation for musicians, DJs, production and sound companies, sound techs, venue owners, staff and everyone connected to the music and events industry,’’ station manager Jennifer Kyle said.
‘‘We are currently promoting ways to support the artists and the industry on air. Suggesting people buy merchandise, buy music online and if an event is cancelled don’t take a refund.’’
Kyle said the station was in the early phases of contacting bands who want to stream live shows instead of hosting gigs.
‘We’re a hardy bunch, we’ll bounce back.’ DEVILSKIN BASSIST PAUL MARTIN