As an indie rock band, touring has its own unique set of challenges, but with the right gear, it can be manageable and fun. Every piece of equipment matters from keeping your sound quality on the road to making sure your instruments can handle the rigors of travel. Here’s a comprehensive guide to what you need for your tour if you’re ready to hit the road with your band and gear.
Electric Guitars: The Heart of Your Sound
The electric guitar is the central instrument for most indie rock bands. The Gibson Les Paul Custom is a popular guitar because of its durability, versatility, and rich tone. When deciding on a guitar to take on tour, think about how it will hold up to temperature changes, humidity, and abuse from being packed and unpacked constantly. Also, it is wise to bring a backup guitar in case of technical difficulties during the performance. Non-negotiables include a guitar stand and durable cases for protection.
Amps: Reliable and Roadworthy Sound
An equally impressive amp is needed for a great performance. Seek out a model that’s easy to move around without compromising on power or sound quality. Solid state amps are lighter and more reliable, but can lack in tone, while tube amps usually provide a fuller, richer tone, but are heavy and fragile, which is why they are not ideal for long journeys. You don’t want to forget the right cables, a solid power conditioner and, if possible, a backup amp head. Reliability is the key here, as an amp failure during a set could be disastrous for a touring band.
Drum Kits: Lightweight and Compact Options
Perhaps the biggest logistical challenge drummers face is touring. Full sized drum kits can be bulky and cumbersome, but there are lightweight and compact models that are perfect for the road. When looking for a drum kit, proritize one that is portable and has great sound. Hybrid materials kits, which are a combination of wood and metal, are often both sturdy and lightweight. Always include extra drumheads, sticks and a throne, as these items wear out quickly under constant use. It is also important to invest in drum cases that are durable enough to prevent damage while being transported.
Accessories: The Small but Essential Items
The smaller items are easy to overlook, but when you’re on the road, they can mean the difference between success and failure. You should pack strings for guitars and basses, capos, tuners, and picks in abundance. Power strips and extension cords are often forgotten but are vital in connecting multiple devices for rehearsals and performances. Keep all your accessories in a separate, easy to access bag so that you don’t have to scramble last minute when a string breaks or you need a pick.
Pedals and Effects: Customize Your Sound
Indie rock bands that rely on dynamic soundscapes need pedals. Space is a premium on the road, but overdrive, delay, reverb, and modulation effects can be critical to shaping your tone. Get a compact pedalboard so that everything is organized and your pedals don’t get damaged during transit. Don’t leave out the required power adapters and cables. Multi-effect pedals are best for maximum flexibility as they combine several effects in a single unit.
Tuners and Metronomes: Precision is Key
Consistency is everything while on tour. If a performance is thrown off by tuning issues or timing problems, it can throw off the entire band’s vibe. A portable tuner is a necessity for quick adjustments, and a metronome will keep you in rhythm during rehearsals. Digital tuners that also function as a metronome will help you save space and keep both of these vital tasks in check.
Cases and Bags: Protection Above All
It’s not only instrument-specific cases that you need, but well-designed bags and cases for all your gear. Band members and roadies often have to carry around multiple instruments, pedals, cables and accessories, so it is important to have cases that provide both protection and easy transport. Look for lightweight, padded cases that are easy to carry but still protect against impact. Guitars and amps need hard cases, while soft bags with compartments are best for accessories and smaller items.
Backup Gear: Be Prepared for the Unexpected
Things can go wrong on the road no matter how much you prepare. It’s always good to have backups, whether it’s a broken guitar string, a malfunctioning pedal, or a damaged drumstick. You should also just have a spare power supply, extra mic cables, and a spare set of drumsticks or heads so you can keep playing without missing a beat.
Travel Smart, Play Hard
Indie rock touring bands have to be ready for whatever the road throws at them. Your sound may be centered around a guitar or drum set, but it’s the thoughtful, well-packed gear that will help you stay on track during performances. Durability, portability, and versatility are priorities, and your tour will be much smoother, regardless of how many miles you travel.
