The music industry is an undeniably daunting force, particularly for newly emerging artists. Young musicians attempting to forge their careers have to contend with an array of obstacles on their way to success. However, with inspiring new initiatives emerging, young band ‘Elysium’ were able to make their debut, just last week.
The live music venue, ‘Basement door’, quite literally acts as a door, through which young musicians can steal a glimpse of all that performing live has to offer. Thus ensuring that teenage bands, like Elysium, are not merely confined to rehearsing in a their parents' basements. Instead, 'Basement door' host young musicians, and also support them further, by sourcing gigs at like-minded venues.
The resulting community of young musicians is ever-evolving, and Elysium solidified themselves an integral part of it, with their recent debut at the Amersham Arms. The band opened with “where is my mind?”, calling all fans of alternative music to attention. Next we heard “Apartment,” an original song, written around 20 years ago, by Lara(a member of Elysium)’s dad, when he too was a member of a band. Then, after astutely pointing out that “we may not live in a free world,” the band promised to “keep rockin’ in it,” and so concluded their set with “Rockin’ in the free world,” by Neil Young. This was my personal favourite, and the atmosphere within the crowd seemed to testify to everyone’s agreement.
Post Elysium's performance, four other bands, also working with the 'Basement Door,' took to the stage. This concept of a collective gig enables young musicians to be exposed to a live audience, without necessarily having to prepare an extensive set. Performing alongside others can also slightly lessen the overwhelming pressure often associated with a debut, whilst establishing a network of young, talented musicians. This encourages collaboration and renders such events an insightful learning experience for all. Opportunities like this are invaluable to aspiring artists, like Elysium. And, in this case, they also happened to play some really good music. It can only get better from here, and I, for one, can’t wait to see them perform again.
If you want to find out more about Elysium, have a read of an interview I did with the band a few months ago (linked below). Or why not come along to a gig and experience it all first-hand?
