How much space do you need?

For a band between 3-6 band members, we typically need a performance area of at least approx 5x3 metres. For a larger band, particularly our show band, something a little bigger would be ideal. We are able to squeeze into most venues if space is limited. We’ve performed in all manor of venues from manor houses and hotels, to boats, arenas, marquees, ball rooms and intimate clubs so we’re well versed in making the most of whatever space is available to us.

 

How is it best to time things?

As standard we perform two hours worth of live music, usually in the format of 2 x 1 hour sets. Of course, the evening’s schedule is completely up to you, and with a little notice we are able to tailor our set times to accommodate your plans - we would just recommend 2x1hrs because it just seems to give the right flow and energy to the evening. We don’t want to clash with evening food being served either, as this may restrict people’s capacity to dance! 

 

Recommended timings are as follows:

Arrival by 6pm to be set up, sound-checked and ready to play by 8pm

Background/DJ Music from 7:30 until 8:00

First Dance & Live Set 1 from 8:00 until 9:00

DJ Music (& evening food) from 9:00 until 10:00

Live Set 2 from 10:00 until 11:00

DJ Music until midnight

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Please let us know in advance if you require alternative timings (early arrival/late finish), and we can factor this into the price and arrangements. 

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Could you provide extra entertainment earlier in the day?

Yes! We offer a range of options to suit your requirements, from solo piano or guitar vocalists, acoustic duos and lounge trios, as well as Ibiza DJ/Sax, perfect for adding a relaxed vibe to your drinks reception or dinner.

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How much does it cost to book the band?

Our prices vary based on location, timings and the music you require from us, whether thats for your full wedding day or just the evening party, or you're looking for something to soundtrack just your ceremony or drinks/dinner reception. Let us know what you have in mind when you enquire and we'll let you know what we can offer. 

 

Can I pick the band's setlist?

With our years of experiences, we have got our setlist down to a T, so generally we would ask you to trust us with the setlist. We've tried and tested so many songs and setlist variations, all with the aim of keeping your audience entertained and on the dance floor. Obviously, its your event so we are happy to take suggestions, particularly if there's some favourites in our repertoire you'd like to hear. 

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If you do have some specific requests, we do ask for 4 weeks notice to allow us time to learn and arrange the song to a professional standard.

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Will you learn our special song?

Yes, we include a live first dance as part of our evening package. We usually need around 4 weeks notice to allow us time to learn and rehearse the song to a professional standard, and if you need any help deciding on a first dance, check out our suggestions in our repertoire. 

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Do you take requests?

With the nature of being a live band, it can often be difficult to play everyone's request on the night of the performance. However, feel free to ask us in between our live sets, and if its in our repertoire, we'll do our best to place it in the setlist if possible. Anything we can't play live, we'd be happy to add to our the background music playlist. 

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What are your power requirements?
Our power draw is no more than 1500w, meaning we can (if necessary) run everything off one standard plug socket. However, a minimum of two is preferable.

If you're hiring generator then 3-phase is ideal with separate phases for bar/kitchen & band - as sometimes we can run into problems if all of your suppliers are drawing power from the same source.

 

Where will you travel to?

We are able to travel both UK wide and internationally.

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Are you able to DJ in between sets?

Yes, DJ music in between our sets comes as standard with every booking. We can put together the playlist for this for you, or if you'd like to send us one then we can use that too. 

 

Can we use your sound system for speeches?

You are welcome to use our PA system for your speeches, but please do let us know in advance so we can make arrangements to have the correct equipment available to you and both set up in the correct place and at the correct time. Particularly if you require any speakers or mics earlier in the day or in a different location to that of the main band and PA.

 

We do charge an additional fee if speeches require an early arrival or additional equipment. 

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Do you have lights?

Yes, we provide professional stage and party lighting at all our performances. 

 

How long do you take to set up?

Assuming access to the venue is straight forward (i.e. ground floor with no steps and vehicle access is close to the venue), we usually ask for a minimum of 2 hours to set up and soundcheck to ensure everything is perfect for your event. If this isn't possible, please do discuss with us in advance so we can find a solution.

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Do you have any specific requirements?

Blue M&M's, 12 bottles of Jack Daniels and Rose Petals in the dressing room please. ONLY JOKING! We're not a fussy bunch the Real Soul Collective! Just somewhere to get changed and some light refreshments would be greatly appreciated. 

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Can you work with sound limitations?

With advance notice, we can work around sound limitations of the venue, working with house PA's where applicable and providing equipment such as electric drums. Please do notify of this as soon as you can so we can make the necessary arrangements. 

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Does the band have PAT and PLI certificates?

We always carry up to date PAT certification and have Public Liability Insurance cover up to £10M.

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How do we get you booked in?

To confirm a booking in our diary, we just ask for a 20% deposit and a signed booking contract. ​

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When do we pay you the final balance? 
We usually get in touch around 3-4 weeks before your event date with our pre-event checklist. In this we include a questionnaire of everything we need to know regarding your event day, and prefer to receive this in writing so that we can get all the information we need in writing, and pass this on effectively and accurately to the all musicians required for your day. In this we will also include the invoice for the final balance, which is payable anytime up until the day prior to your event.