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| quote: | Originally posted by Tygon
I'll give you a few tips of things i listen for in a demo.
-45 minutes tells me that you're not comfortable mixing for an entire CDs length. It MAY tell me you're probably frustrated with making multiple mistakes and having to start your set over again. A longer set will prove your ability to program effectively and control the listener from start to finish. 45 minutes is short for a trance set... use up all media space available to prove your skills.
-Ending your set can be part of the creativity and vary depending on the style. There is no right or wrong way to end it. It would depend on what your last track is, the overall feel of the set, and whether or not you're limited by space. My suggestion... Many promoters will listen to CDs in their cars. Bring the listener in a full cycle and end the set on a similar feel as the begining of the set without doing anything abrubtly. This way, it's possible they'll continue to listen to it again without realizing it. The more they listen to it, the more points you'll score.
-Though trance tracks have some great intros, I advise you get straight to the point. I listen to too many sets that go on with an instrumental beginning which drags on. Basically, I want to hear what you're about as quickly as possible without any bullshit. Don't waste their time... they want to hear your mixing abilities, your track selection, and the crativity of the set. Playing a 14 minute anthem to begin the mix does not impress anyone.
-Labeling your CD is important. Essentially, you want to prove that you take DJing seriously... and not that you're some bedroom DJ they're taking a risk on. The more professional you appear to be, the more likely they'll have you in to play. Have your name, contact information and web site. Include a tracklist with the CD. Don't be too flashy... just be direct and to the point with the information you provide.
-Cutting your CD into tracks is a very nice bonus, but not necessary. It won't make or break a DJ getting agig in my opinion, but it does prove your attention to detail and the care you put into your work. I suggest it... especially if you're playing tracks I really like and want to hear them again whie I'm listening to your CD. This will gain you points.
-If you're physically handing a demo to a promoter, look the part. The way you present it to a promoter face to face will be the way they assume you'll represent yourself at their club if you play. Think of it as a 2 minute interview... if they think you're a complete newbie or simply full of shit, don't expect a callback.
-Veezee made a great point. Unpolished does sound natural. Don't edit your sets... most promoters can spot edits a mile away.
-I can't stress this next one enough. SOUND QUALITY IT KEY!!! I hate to hear a DJ that can't handle the EQs. If you're distorting your mixes at home in a controlled environment, who knows what you'll do on a club system you're unfamiliar with! My advice is to record your set at a lower volume and then normalize it to 100% once it's complete. Also, avoid using your favourite, overused records that have lost their luster. Audio quality is a very big deal! Pick your best wisely!
Anyways... those are a few tips I thought of on the spot. Hope this helps!
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From http://www.tranceaddict.com/forums/...threadid=326222 (which should be stickied, imo. very useful)
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