CHAOS THEORY
Supporting independent bands is the secret to putting on successful gigs, says London promoter Kunal Singhal.
“We just want
to connect good people to good music.”
“I’ve missed two of our shows in the last nine years and it was horrendous,” says Kunal Singhal. “Some think it’s an achievement to have people run an event without you but if I spend months promoting a gig and getting excited about it, I want to be in the crowd for it.”
Former prog metal singer Singhal founded Chaos Theory in London in 2010 in response to the way bands were being treated by pay-to-play promoters. His aim was to bring “unusual” music to new audiences and create an excellent experience for artists and their fans. Chaos Theory quickly became a collective with in-house photographers, bloggers, DJs, videographers, and, recently, its own podcast, all of which is aimed at helping to raise artist profiles.
Through his regular themed nights, Singhal found he was reaching more people than he’d thought possible. He even ended up hosting a gig in Kuwait with Jo Quail and guitarist Bella Kardasis.
“I’ve had all these opportunities I never expected,” he enthuses. “I made a lot of sacrifices in the beginning but it’s been worth it because the results have been so good.”
Although Chaos Theory transcends genres, they’ve helped numerous prog artists such as Thumpermonkey, Darkher and The Fierce And The Dead. Each line-up is also carefully matched to a suitable London venue.
“It’s really important to get every tiny element right,” says the organisation’s founder. “I’m also really keen to develop bands and promote them beyond our gigs so they’re in a stronger position when they’re next in London. We just want to connect good people to good music.”
Next February, Chaos Theory celebrate 10 Years Of Chaos with an all-dayer at The Dome in Tufnell Park. The line-up includes Alpha
Male Tea Party and Memory Of Elephants, but Singhal says he’s not about to forget his DIY roots.
“There’s new music being born all the time so let’s connect with these people, and help them get on the right footing in the scene. A lot of artists get jaded by bad promoters and I want them to understand there are some great spaces for them to work with.” NRS
For the latest gig listings, videos and podcasts, visit www.chaostheorymusic.co.uk.