Dobson Sound

Farewell to 2009

2009-12-17T17:51:00.002Z

We wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a happy New Year.

From January next year we have decided to no longer continue to run this blog and will be closing it down early in the new year.

Sherlock Holmes Premiere

2009-12-17T16:02:00.004Z

DATE: 14th of December
LOCATION: Leicester Sq, London
Client: Amanda Davis Events
Event Sound: Dobson Sound

Avatar World Premiere

2009-12-17T15:39:00.006Z

DATE: 10th of December
LOCATION: Leicester Sq, London
Client: Nibbs Events

Event Sound: Dobson Sound

Check out exclusive coverage from the Avatar world premiere in London on YouTube! http://bit.ly/4YUUk5

Join the stars of Avatar live from the blue carpet on MySpace!
http://bit.ly/TWhDS

James Cameron's epic motion picture Avatar is in theaters Friday 18th!
http://bit.ly/8WGSGF

Watch the music video for “I See You” (Theme from Avatar) by Leona Lewis on MySpace!
http://bit.ly/8mhYUw

Late at Tate Britain November: Behind the Scenes

2009-10-19T16:56:00.005+01:00

'Late at Tate brings back the hugely popular Behind the Scenes event. Discover the spaces of Tate Britain you didn’t know existed, with guest contributions from 2009’s Turner Prize nominees, visits to the Tate Stores, tours of Tate Conservation studios, plus Tim Whitehead performs his musical research into Turner.'

Dobson Sound will be providing sound requirements for Tim Whitehead in Room 9 for the launch of "Colour Beginnings", based on the work of Turner.

More information here

d&b audiotechnik news: Dobson Sound at the Big Chill Festival 2009

2009-10-19T11:27:00.006+01:00

d&b audiotechnik news:

'Feel the Chill of Zombie reorientation'

Big Chill Festival 2009: Pro Sound News review

2009-10-19T11:18:00.013+01:00

October's edition of 'Pro Sound News' has the following review from the Big Chill Festival 2009 on pages 36/37:

'Prescribing the Chill pill'

Late at Tate Britain October 2009: Beyond Scale

2009-09-25T11:58:00.005+01:00

On Friday 2nd October, Dobson Sound will be providing sound requirements in various locations for Late at Tate: Beyond Scale.

"Curated by Will Dutta, Creative Director of Chimera Productions, Tate Britain presents live contemporary classical and experimental music from some of the leading exponents on the scene. Explore eighteenth-century ideas of the Sublime with horns heralding from the lofty heights of the Duveen Galleries, plus hear three of Europe’s leading young cellists perform the deeply haunting Peshrav for three amplified cellos by Uzbek composer Aziza Sadikova."

In the North Duveen Gallery, Chris Wheeler presents a new electro-acoustic piece for the Heritage Orchestra brass choir and pre-recorded sound. Eighteenth-century ideas of the sublime are hinted at with horns heralding from the heights of the gallery. Moments of harmony will counterbalance tonal instability, turning this semi-improvised piece into a dramatic soundscape.

Heritage Horns will utilise a d&b audiotechnik J-SUB, alongside live horns played from the balcony level.

Meanwhile in Room 9, Nonclassical:

"Nonclassical is an innovative record label releasing classical music in an unexpected way. For this evening, a performance will be presented of Gabriel Prokofiev's Concerto for Turntables & Orchestra featuring one of the most skillful DJs in the world, DJ Switch, a live set from Powerplant and Nonclassical DJs Cutting up classical and non-classical, this music is inspired by techno, grime and baroque."

BFI 53rd London Film Festival: Opening Gala, Fantastic Mr. Fox

2009-09-25T10:32:00.007+01:00

Dobson Sound are due to provide outdoor relay to Leicester Square during the Opening Gala Night of the BFI 53rd London Film Festival. Tasked by Atom Events, Dobson Sound will be providing coverage to the watching crowds as the voice cast of Wes Anderson's 'Fantastic Mr. Fox' arrive. Stars will arrive on the red carpet and enter both the Odeon Leicester Square and Empire Leicester Square, where the film will be shown.

"Wes Anderson works with stop-motion animation and an outstanding voice cast to bring Roald Dahl's much loved story to the screen.

In his first animated feature, Wes Anderson proves the perfect filmmaker to bring Roald Dahl's much-loved story to the screen.

Mr and Mrs Fox live an idyllic home life with their son Ash and visiting young nephew Kristofferson. But, after 12 years, the bucolic existence proves too much for Mr Fox's wild animal instincts. Soon he slips back into his old ways as a sneaky chicken thief, and in doing so endangers not only his own beloved family, but the whole animal community. Trapped underground with not enough food to go round, the animals band together to fight against the evil farmers Boggis, Bunce and Bean, who are determined to capture the audacious, fantastic Mr Fox at any cost.

Anderson and co-writer Noah Baumbach have stuck closely to the spirit and the events of the original, but have opened it out, adding new scenes and giving depth to a range of hugely engaging and heavily anthropomorphised characters, replete with foibles good and bad. The voice cast are exemplary, with a host of Anderson regulars including Bill Murray, Jason Schwartzman and Owen Wilson featuring alongside British actors such as Michael Gambon and Brian Cox and some Anderson family and friends, Jarvis Cocker amongst them. Leading the pack of course are George Clooney and Meryl Streep as Mr and Mrs Fox, he roguish and debonair, her beautiful, wise and funny.

Creating alternative universes is something this director has always excelled at, and his attention to detail finds great expression here. Using classic stop-motion animation gives the story a delightful homemade feel, and the autumnal palette adds a particular warmth. Anderson's stylistic choices are recognisable from his earlier films, resulting in an animated film that feels uniquely entertaining and enjoyable. It succeeds in retaining the essence of Dahl's writing, which has enchanted audiences for over 40 years, but filtered through a very distinct and visionary sensibility."

Sandra Hebron

(from BFI website)

MZ Bratt now performing at Loud Tate, 26th September

2009-09-25T10:08:00.009+01:00

Due to Bashy cancelling his performance, MZ Bratt has been added to the bill for tomorrow's Loud Tate at Tate Britain.

More information can be found on Resident Advisor and Loud Tate's MySpace page

CHi2 presents Monkey King: A Modern Beijing Opera, Autumn UK Tour 2009

2009-09-25T09:52:00.006+01:00

Dobson Sound are once again providing sound equipment for CHi2's latest tour, Monkey King: A Modern Beijing Opera.

Autumn Tour dates are as follows:

Fri 18 Sept – DERBY
Assembly Rooms, Market Place, Derby, DE1 3AH
01332 25580
www.assemblyrooms-derby.co.uk

Sat 19 Sept – CUMBRIA
Kirkgate Theatre Cockermouth, Cumbria, The Lake District
01900 826448
www.thekirkgate.com

Tues 29 Sept – LEICESTER
De Montfort Hall, Granville Road, Leicester
0116 233 3111
www.demontforthall.co.uk

Wed 30 Sept – HEMEL HEMPSTEAD
The Old Town Hall, High Street, Hemel Hempstead
01442 228091
www.theoldtownhall.co.uk

Fri 2 Oct – *LONDON - with special guest Kuljit Bhamra
Rich Mix, 35 – 47 Bethnal Green Road, Shoreditch London
020 7613 7498
www.richmix.org.uk

Sat 3 Oct – *LONDON - with special guest Kuljit Bhamra
Rich Mix, 35 – 47 Bethnal Green Road, Shoreditch London
020 7613 7498
www.richmix.org.uk

Tues 6 Oct – CHELTENHAM
Everyman Theatre, 7-10 Regent Street, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire
01242 57257
www.everymantheatre.org.uk

More information here

Equipment includes a Yamaha LS9-32 FOH desk, Sennheiser IEMs and d&b audiotechnik Q-series speaker system.

BP Saturday's at Tate Britain, LOUD TATE: RE-EVOLUTION, September 26th 2009

2009-09-10T16:01:00.014+01:00

Dobson Sound will once again be providing sound requirements at this year's Loud Tate. Artists performing on the Clore Lawn will be...

Bashy
Scarlet Harlots
The Pepys

Full event details can be found here

Facebook Group

YouTube video from last year's event, including footage of Adelaide Mackenzie, Toddla T & MC Serocee, Metronomy and Benga (from about 7.25 mins in) who all performed on the Clore Stage:

Cricket in the Park: Photos from Regent's Park

2009-09-10T15:04:00.002+01:00

Cricket in the Park
21st - 23rd August 2009
Regent's Park
Live relay of the Brit Oval Test

Some photos...

Late at Tate: Tate Britain, London on Friday September 4th 2009

2009-08-24T11:56:00.006+01:00

The Late at Tate series continues on September 4th...

"Curated by the mysterious and secretive group The Diogenes Club, 'Late at Tate Britain' in September is a mix of high and low brow, mainstream and counter culture. Film, music and readings are presented throughout the galleries, exploring new trends and artisitc platforms that are emerging out of the strange and arcane world that we call now."

As part of this month's event, painters Michael Raedecker and Dexter Dalwood, along with other Diogenes Club members, will present mixtape compilations selected in response to works of art in the following rooms:

Room 13 –Dexter Dawood

Room 21– Michael Raedecker

Room 19 – The Diogenes Club

Room 15 - Michael Raedecker

Room 4- The Diogenes Club

Room 9 – Random play, mix by all the above

Dobson Sound will be providing playback systems in these galleries, with d&b audiotechnik T10 speakers employed.

More information here

Brit Oval Test - Live on the big screen, Regents Park 22nd - 23rd August

2009-08-20T09:01:00.005+01:00

This is the last chance to see this year's Ashes Series in the unique surroundings that 'Cricket in the Park' offers. Over the weekend of Saturday 22nd and Sunday 23rd August, Regents Park will be home to Cricket in the Park, where you can watch the Brit Oval Ashes Test, live on the big screen.

Some more local information:

Royal Parks website

"A festival of cricket featuring the npower Ashes Series shown on giant screens and the Sky Sports Coaching Zone offering expert coaching tips. For junior family members, the Buxton Kids Zone will keep children entertained.

10am - 6pm"

View London website

"Pack up your picnic and head to the Cricket in the park London event this summer, when Regents Park will play host to a giant screen showing all the live action. Even if you haven't managed to bag tickets for the actual game, you can still spend the day relaxing with a picnic and watching all the runs mount up, and even better, the Cricket in the Park event is free to attend."

2009 npower Ashes Test Series: 5th test at the Brit Oval shown live in Regents Park on 22nd and 23rd August

2009-08-17T15:12:00.012+01:00

Continuing the season of 'Cricket in the Park', Dobson Sound will be providing sound requirements for the screening of the final test of the Ashes Series. The event will take place in Regents Park, London on Saturday 22nd and Sunday 23rd August.

Edgbaston Test shown at Parker's Piece, Cambridge

For the location of the event, see Google Maps.
For the information leaflet, download the PDF here

Previous blog posts here:

Cricket in the Park for the 2009 Ashes series

2nd Ashes test at Lord's

Deloitte Ignite at the Royal Opera House, September 4th - 6th 2009

2009-08-17T11:03:00.009+01:00

As part of the Royal Opera House's 'Deloitte Ignite 09' Festival, Dobson Sound are due to provide sound requirements for the 'Live Gig Night' on Saturday 5th September.

"Welcome to Deloitte Ignite 09 Curated by Time Out put together to champion innovation in the arts. Our panel of editors has approached the artists who have excited us most to create works that will reveal the hidden dimensions of this world-famous institution. We’ve chosen the mirror as our theme - not least because its presence dominates the building, whether in the shimmering glamour of the Paul Hamlyn Hall, in the studios where the dancers perfect their poses, in the dressing rooms, or even in the royal box where Queen Victoria once sat. So we invite you into our looking-glass world with its dazzling range of moods and provocative perspectives. Let us know your reflections.

Live Gig Night

Wiley, Chipmunk, Emeli Sandé, Portico Quartet

Paul Hamlyn Hall
8pm -12 midnight on Saturday 5 September | £20, £15 concessions

Time Out Rock Folk and Jazz Editor Eddie Lawrence says:

"Time Out is very pleased to present rising talent Emeli Sandé, whose treacle on gravel voice has made her hotly sought after as a collaborator by such artists as Chipmunk and Wiley. A soul singer, songwriter, and pianist from Glasgow, who’s happy to dabble in other music forms, she’s also trained to be a doctor, so her cutting edge talent cuts several ways.

She will be appearing alongside Chipmunk, seen as one of the grime scene’s best MCs. Now 18, he kicked off his career at the age of 14 at his local youth club in Tottenham, and was winner of the Best Newcomer Award at the 2008 MOBO awards.

Portico Quartet has long been championed by Time Out for a distinctive style which they themselves describe as indy band meets post-jazz. The instrument that appears on all their tracks - the hang – is a 21st century piece of percussion, which was developed in Switzerland and brings a steelpan-influenced hypnotic ring to their music. In 2008 their album Knee Deep In The North Sea was nominated for the Mercury prize.

Wiley is known as the godfather of grime. The British producer and MC was a founding member of the group Roll Deep when he pioneered the style, and he now has his own Eskibeat label (named after his song Eskimo). Last year his hit Wearing My Rolex became the number one downloaded track on iTunes UK, and went to number two in the UK Singles Charts."

May contain strong language and ID may be required at the bar."

Friendly Fires performing Love Sick at the Big Chill 2009

2009-08-17T10:58:00.007+01:00

Nice Open Air Stage footage from Friday afternoon at the Big Chill...

Big Chill Festival 2009 photostream

2009-08-17T10:42:00.004+01:00

See the Big Chill's Flickr photostream here

Great London Swim 2009

2009-08-16T12:44:00.002+01:00

On Saturday 15th August, Dobson Sound provided sound systems at the British Gas Great London Swim 2009. Held in the Royal Victoria Dock, alongside the Excel Centre, the event saw 1000s of swimmers take on the 1 mile course.

In keeping with the tradition of other Great Swims, world class swimmers lead the field from the front, including four of the six Beijing Olympic 10k open-water medallists.

Dobson Sound provided sound systems in the arrivals area, start area and the finish area where d&b audiotechnik Q10s and T10s were used.

More information here

Video footage from the Big Chill Festival 2009

2009-08-13T14:53:00.010+01:00

Some highlights I've found below. If you have some video footage, send me the link!

Friendly Fires, Open Air Stage

David Byrne, Open Air Stage

Krafty Kuts & A.Skillz, Cocktail Bar

Orbital, Open Air Stage

Big Chill 2009: Festival Review

2009-08-13T12:53:00.008+01:00

Some Big Chill Festival reviews...

MTV Festival review

The Guardian review

'The Ugly Truth' London Premiere

2009-07-29T15:29:00.004+01:00

Next week sees the London Premiere of, 'The Ugly Truth' at the Vue West End in London's Leicester Square.

Dobson Sound, who are working for Premier PR, will be providing outdoor sound requirements for the watching crowds.

The Big Chill Festival, 7th - 9th August 2009: Open Air Stage goes lower with the d&b J-INFRA

2009-07-22T09:19:00.039+01:00

Big Chill Festival Open Air Stage

Over the years Dobson Sound has been involved with the Big Chill Festival, the system design for the main Open Air Stage has changed. Back in 2004 and 2005, the main PA consisted of d&b audiotechnik C-series (8 x C4 TOPs & 8 x C4-SUBs per side) with B2-SUBs and Q-SUBs providing the ground stacked low-end.

C4 array at the Big Chill Open Air Stage, 2005

From 2006 onwards, the d&b audiotechnik J-series has been used. 2006, 2007 and 2008's main system consisted of 8 x J8 / J12s per side with 12 J-SUBs arranged to create the cardioid sub-array.

See d&b audiotechnik's news feature on the 2007 festival
'Hot Subs, Big Chill'

J-series hang at the Big Chill Open Air Stage, 2008

This year's festival will see a larger system employed, with 10 x J8s flown per side and a much larger cardioid bass array, consisting of 20 x J-SUBs and 8 x J-INFRA subs.

The J-INFRA subwoofer was released earlier this year:

"The J-INFRA is a cardioid infra subwoofer that can be used to supplement J-Series systems consisting of J8, J12 and J-SUB cabinets. It extends the frequency response of a J-Series system down to 27 Hz and can only be used in ground stacked configurations in conventional left/right setups as well as arranged in an infra subwoofer array. It has two bass reflex chambers containing three 21" drivers, two facing forward in one chamber that are driven from a channel of the D12 amplifier and one facing backwards driven by the other D12 channel. Through this driver setup its cardioid dispersion pattern avoids unwanted energy behind the system and greatly reduces the reverberant field at low frequencies providing highest accuracy in low frequency reproduction. Selecting Hypercardioid mode in the D12 optimizes the tuning of front and rear channels for a maximum rejection at the left and right sides behind the cabinet."

Previous post from September 2008:
'Festival Sound: Line arrays, bass arrays, budgets and the weather!'

Working alongside the Big Chill's sound coordinator, Mark Isbister, Dobson Sound are also providing sound systems and engineers on the following stages:

Castle Stage, The Coop, Big Chill Nights, Cocktail Bar, Words in Motion, City Stops Here Stage, Cinema, Kid's Tent, Roundhouse, Big Chill FM, as well as various smaller systems located around the arena and campsites.

All of the above stages are utilising d&b audiotechnik speaker systems, including 4 x B2-SUBs, 8 x C7-SUBs, 4 x C7-TOPs, 2 x E12s, 2 x E15X-SUBs, 38 x E3s, 32 x J8s, 8 x J-INFRAs, 38 x J-SUBs, 18 x M2 monitors, 48 x M4 monitors, 26 x Q1s, 12 x Q10s, 30 x Q7s, 19 x Q-SUBs, 36 x T10s & 8 x T-SUBs!

In total, over 320 speakers and 150 D12 amplifiers will be used across the festival site!

Ticket information here

Late at Tate Britain, 7th August 2009

2009-07-21T12:50:00.006+01:00

Dobson Sound continue their involvement with Tate Britain's 'Late at Tate' series on the 7th August, with 'Late Night Radio'.

"Tune into Late Night Radio on a summer night. Curated by Radio 3's Late Junction presenter Max Reinhardt, Tate Britain overflows with live music, soundscapes and film. Solo live acts include Keziah Jones and Zoe Rahman, plus performances of seminal works by Cornelius Cardew and John Cage, directed by Robert Worby. MA students from Chelsea College of Art present art and interventions"

Dobson Sound will be providing sound requirements in Gallery 9, where Keziah Jones will be performing.

More information here.

'Inglourious Basterds' London Premiere

2009-07-21T12:45:00.000+01:00

This week sees the London Premiere of Quentin Tarantino's 'Inglourious Basterds' at the Odeon Cinema, Leicester Square.

Dobson Sound, who are working for Premier PR, will be providing outdoor sound requirements for the watching crowds.

d&b audiotechnik T-series at the Beer & Jazz Festivals, London 2009

2009-07-21T11:02:00.014+01:00

Having been approached by Mark Isbister, Dobson Sound are currently supplying the Beer & Jazz Festivals with all sound requirements for the main stages. We're working directly for the production company, PWR Events.

The main stage PA consists of flown d&b audiotechnik T-series (2 x T-SUBS and 4 T10s per side), with a B2-SUB on the floor beneath each hang.

The Greenwich Beer & Jazz Festival was held over the weekend of the 8th - 12th July, with the Windsor Beer & Jazz Festival coming up over the 12th - 16th August and the Hampton Beer & Jazz Festival held over the 27th - 31st August.

Alexandra Gardens, Windsor:

James Taylor Quartet are confirmed to headline the first Royal Windsor Beer & Jazz Festival, when it comes to the lazy lawns of Alexandra Gardens for five days and nights. The music stage will feature an eclectic mix of summer sounds; from chilled lunchtimes to energetic evening sessions. The music will keep coming from 12.30pm to 10.00pm, with this year's line-up also including The Chicago Blues Brothers, TJ Johnson, ska heroes Los Albertos and the sweet Bossa Nova vibes of Jandira Silva, amongst others.

Tickets and more information here.

Hampton Court Palace:

James Taylor Quartet and Jazz legend Courtney Pine are confirmed to headline the first Hampton Court Palace Beer & Jazz Festival, when it comes to the grounds of Henry VIII's Tudor Palace for five days and nights. The music stage will feature a great line-up of established names along with rising stars from the world's of traditional jazz, funk, latin and blues.

Tickets and more information here.

Ashes series live on the big screen at Parker's Piece, Cambridge: 1st - 2nd August 2009

2009-07-20T12:57:00.012+01:00

Following two great Ashes test matches at Cardiff and Lord's, the series continues at Edgbaston on Thursday 30th July. Continuing the 'Cricket in the Park' season Dobson Sound, who are working for the event management company innervision, will be at Parker's Piece in Cambridge over the weekend of the 1st - 2nd August. We'll be providing sound relay to the whole site.

You'll be able to watch live action from Edgbaston on the the big screen and also take part in lots of activities...

As the website explains:

"npower Cricket in the Park brings the excitement of the npower Ashes Series to various locations completely free of charge - all as part of the ECB's The Great Exhibition throughout this exciting summer of cricket.

Stumped for something to do this Summer and want a great day out for FREE with your friends and family? The ECB and npower are inviting Cricket fans to pack up their picnics and head to a local npower Cricket in the Park event – part of a series of events to celebrate what is set to be one of the most spectacular cricketing seasons in the sports history.

Experience every wicket, run, throw, catch and nail-biting moment, along with thousands of other fans, as the action is beamed out on giant screens.

The npower Cricket in the Park events will bring the excitement of live cricket to fans and families around the Country providing an opportunity to watch world-class cricket on a big screen in a fun and lively atmosphere from the comfort of a picnic blanket!

The npower Cricket in the Park events will also have a whole host of other activities going on so there will be something to keep all the family amused:

See how your cricketing skills measure up against the England Team, and have your technique expertly analysed in the Sky Sports coaching zone
Let the kids run wild whilst still keeping and eye on the cricket in the Buxton’s Kids Zone
Grab a bite to eat and drink at one of the many quality food and drink stalls
Win chances of a lifetime to be coached by Andy Flower

Don’t miss out on the number one fan experience of the summer!"

Google map of location

Dobson Sound confirmed for it's 6th year at the Big Chill Festival: 7th - 9th August 2009

2009-07-14T16:41:00.012+01:00

Dobson Sound are delighted to announce that we'll be at the Big Chill Festival for our 6th year running. Working alongside the Big Chill Fesival's Sound Coordinator, Mark Isbister, we're due to provide sound systems and engineers across the whole festival site.

See the festival site here:

For more information, go to the Big Chill Festival website

2nd Ashes Test at Lord's to be shown live for 'npower Cricket in the Park' at Sefton Park, Liverpool

2009-07-14T16:27:00.005+01:00

The next Ashes test at Lord's starts on Thursday and continuing the 'npower Cricket in the Park' series, Dobson Sound will be providing the sound system at Liverpool's Sefton Park on the 18th and 19th July.

Dobson Sound has been tasked by innovision, the event management company, to provide sound systems at all 'Cricket in the Park' screen sites during the Ashes Series.

Barber of Seville: Royal Opera House Summer Big Screens - 15th July

2009-07-14T16:10:00.009+01:00

Dobson Sound are once again working for the Royal Opera House on the Summer Big Screen season. Tomorrow, we'll be setting up the sound system to relay a live performance of Barber of Seville in London's Trafalgar Square.

Timings are as follows:

Come and join us for The Barber of Seville on Wednesday 15 July, 2009

Pre performance events start from 7pm

The main feature starts 7.30pm
Approximate timings 3 hours

Act I 100 minutes
Interval 25 minutes
Act II 60 minutes

For photos of the last Trafalgar Square relay, see our previous blog post

This is the last screening in the 2009 series.

Antony Gormley's 'One & Other' on the 4th Plinth, Trafalgar Square, London

2009-07-14T15:54:00.007+01:00

On Monday 6th July, Dobson Sound were tasked by Unusual Services to provide a sound system for the launch of Antony Gormley's 'One & Other' 4th Plinth project, in London's Trafalgar Square.

Antony Gormley invites you to help create an astonishing living monument. He is asking the people of the UK to occupy the empty Fourth Plinth in Trafalgar Square in London, a space normally reserved for statues of Kings and Generals, in an image of themselves, and a representation of the whole of humanity. Every hour, 24 hours a day for 100 days, a different person will step up to the Fourth Plinth on Trafalgar Square and help make a living portrait of the UK.

More info here

La Traviata, Royal Opera House Summer Big Screens, 30th June 2009

2009-07-01T16:44:00.009+01:00

On one of the hottest days of the year so far, Dobson Sound were once again working for the Royal Opera House on the BP Summer Big Screens, at various sites across the country.

On the 30th June, Dobson Sound rigged sound systems in Aberdeen, Ipswich, BP's Sunbury office and Trafalgar Square, London. All relayed a performance of La Traviata, live from The Royal Opera House in Covent Garden, London.

Equipment used on the day included; 12 cranes, 4 PA masts, over 120 d&b audiotechnik speakers and 40 d&b amplifiers!

No doubt helped by the glorious weather, record audience numbers were reported at all venues.

As you can see from the photos, Trafalgar Square's Big Screen was extremely well attended.

The next date for the Big Screens is the 15th July, where once again we'll be in Trafalgar Square, this time for a live relay of The Barber of Seville.

Tower Bridge Walkways

2009-07-01T14:20:00.007+01:00

As part of being an accredited supplier for Seasoned Events, Dobson Sound are also on the accredited supplier list for providing audio visual services at Tower Bridge Walkways. Located 42 metres above the Thames, the Walkways offer spectacular, unique views over London.

For more information on venue hire, contact Seasoned Events.

'Cricket in the Park' for the Ashes Series 2009

2009-06-18T12:51:00.013+01:00

'Cricket in the Park' is a series of events for summer 2009, organised by the English Cricket Board (ECB) and npower. During each Ashes Series test, a different park will play host to a giant screen, playing all the live action, as well as various cricket activities.

Events will be held at the following locations:

Southampton, Hoglands Park - Fri 10 and Sat 11 July (Cardiff Test)
Liverpool, Sefton Park - Sat 18 and Sun 19 July (Lord's Test)
Cambridge, Parkers Piece - Sat 1 and Sun 2 Aug (Edgbaston Test)
Derby, Markeaton Park - Sat 8 and Sun 9 Aug (Headingley Test)
London, Regent's Park - Sat 22 and Sun 23 Aug (Brit Oval Test)

As well as the live cricket, there'll be chance to:

See how your cricketing skills measure up against the England Team, and have your technique expertly analysed in the Sky Sports coaching zone
Win chances of a lifetime to be coached by members of the England Team

Dobson Sound has been tasked by innovision, the event management company, to provide the PA requirements for the screens at all the aforementioned locations. Each sound system will consist of flown d&b audiotechnik Q-series for main left / right, with further Q-series on delay masts.

For more information on the first event, go to the Southampton City Council website

'Public Enemies' UK Premiere, Leicester Square, London

2009-06-17T09:24:00.012+01:00

Continuing a busy season of film premieres, Dobson Sound are once again being tasked by Premier PR to provide outdoor relay in Leicester Square for the London premiere of Public Enemies, starring Johnny Depp and Christian Bale.

Directed by Michael Mann (Last of the Mohicans, Heat, The Insider, Collateral) the film charts the incredible and true story of legendary Depression-era bank robber John Dillinger (Depp), the charismatic bank robber whose lightning raids made him the number one target of J. Edgar Hoover's fledgling FBI and its top agent, Melvin Purvis (Bale).

Photos from 'Transformers 2' London Premiere, Leicester Square 15th June 2009

2009-06-16T09:35:00.006+01:00

Here are a few shots from the Transformers 2 London Premiere, which was held yesterday in Leicester Square...

d&b audiotechnik on the 31st floor of Centre Point, in London's West End.

2009-06-15T11:41:00.009+01:00

On Friday 12th June, Dobson Sound provided a sound system for a party on the 31st floor of Centre Point, in the heart of London's West End.

Part of Paramount, a private member's bar on the top floor, the event space on the 31st floor has stunning views of london.

With a late licence and uninterrupted views to the horizon, no doubt sunrise was a very special moment indeed! Main d&b audiotechnik PA consisted of a B2, Q-SUB with a Q7 and pair of Q1s per side.

Royal Opera House Summer Big Screen, Belfast Botanic Gardens, 3rd June 2009

2009-06-15T10:06:00.007+01:00

For the first time in our long relationship with the Royal Opera House Summer Big Screens, on June 3rd 2009 we set up in Belfast, Northern Ireland. The location was the Botanic Gardens, in College Park.

As you can see from the photographs, four large cranes were employed to fly the PA from; two main left and hangs of d&b Q1s, with two smaller surround left and right hangs of d&b Q1s.

The ballet, which was broadcast live via satellite from London's Royal Opera House, was Ondine. The weather was great all day and the screening was very well attended by over 3500 people.

The Summer Big Screen season continues on the 30th June, with a performance of La Traviata and again on the 15th July with a performance of The Barber of Seville.

Please see our previous blog post for information on where we'll we setting up sound systems and the Royal Opera House website for full details of all screenings.

Pixie Lott showcase at The Vodafone Experience store, Oxford Street, Friday 5th June.

2009-06-08T11:44:00.010+01:00

On Friday 5th June, Dobson Sound were tasked by MIG Events to provide a sound system for the Pixie Lott showcase, at the Vodafone Experience store on Oxford Street, in London's West End.

The performance marked the launch of unlocked music (DRM free) from the cell phone network, allowing users to transfer whatever music they download onto all of their MP3 devices, including iPods and PCs.

FOH equipment included a Midas Venice console with outboard equipment including Lexicon reverb, XTA compression and Klark Technic equalistion. Pixie used a Shure UR2 transmitter with a Beta 87 head, monitors were d&b audiotechnik M4s with the main PA consisting of d&b Q7s and T-SUBS.

Big Chill Festival 2009: Full line-up and highlights

2009-06-04T13:30:00.015+01:00

The Big Chill festival line-up is here

In addition to the well known acts such as David Byrne, Orbital, Basement Jaxx and Spiritualized performing at this year's festival, here's a selection of other highlights:

Chris Cunningham Live

"A rare audiovisual performance by acclaimed film director and video artist Chris Cunningham, whose videos for everyone from The Aphex Twin to Madonna need no introduction. This is one of a handful of festivals Chris Cunningham will play across the globe this summer. Chris Cunningham Live is a 55 minute performance, combining original and remixed music and film. It features remixed, unreleased and brand new videos and music, dynamically edited together into a new live piece spread over 3 screens."

Gruff Rhys

"The Welsh songwriter and musician, Gruff Rhys, is best known as Super Furry Animals front man. He is also renowned for his solo projects such as the Mercury award-nominated Neon Neon as well as Candylion."

Lindstrøm

"Following a consistent flow of highly acclaimed EPs and remixes for names like Franz Ferdinand and LCD Soundsystem and The Juan Maclean, expectations were rocketing to the Lindstrom & Prins Thomas album, which also marks Eskimo Recordings long player debut. Judging from the press and record buyers alike, the album - which might be described as downbeat space disco with a singer/songwriter feel - more than lived up to its expectations. Whether it was that specialist dance music website or the broadsheet critic, they all seemed to pick up on the fact that these boys are not your average electronic music makers."

Metro Area

"The brainchild of veteran producers Morgan Geist and Darshan Jesrani, Metro Area was born out of the pair’s somewhat dichotomous love for both the old moods of R&B, disco and boogie and the more cutting-edge sound of innovative house and techno. Metro Area brings back the soulful experimentation of the early club classics, mixing live and electronic instruments. Simultaneously, the mood and minimalism of more recent dance music forms creep into the mix: Detroit’s cold futurism, Chicago’s abstract track-modes, and the warmth of New York and New Jersey’s deep house."

Pharoah Sanders

"Pharoah Sanders possesses one of the most distinctive tenor saxophone sounds in jazz. Harmonically rich and heavy with overtones, Sanders’ sound can be as raw and abrasive as it is possible for a saxophonist to produce. Yet, Sanders is highly regarded to the point of reverence by a great many jazz fans. Although he made his name with expressionistic, nearly anarchic free jazz in John Coltrane’s late ensembles of the mid-’60s, Sanders’ later music is guided by more graceful concerns."

For more information on these, as well as all the other artists performing at this year's Big Chill Festival, please go to The Big Chill website.

Artist text on this post all taken from The Big Chill website.

Dobson Sound become accredited supplier for the Crown Group and the Royal Courts of Justice

2009-06-04T12:15:00.015+01:00

Dobson Sound are pleased to announce they have been added to the list of the Crown Group's accredited suppliers. The Crown Group comprises of a number of member companies, including Seasoned Events & Kudos Hospitality .

The Crown Group started life in 1978 and has since established itself in the world of catering and venue management. As part of our inclusion on their list, Dobson Sound are now an accredited supplier for sound services at the Royal Courts of Justice, one of the most unique and largest event spaces in London.

Other venues where Dobson Sound are approved suppliers

Dobson Sound take delivery of more d&b T-series

2009-06-02T15:22:00.012+01:00

Following a first delivery at the start of May and subsequent performance, Dobson Sound have taken delivery of further stock of d&b audiotechnik T10 loudspeakers.

If you'd like more information on the d&b T10 or any other d&b products we stock,
please contact us.

Wintershall Estate: The Life of Christ, 23rd - 28th June 2009

2009-06-02T12:14:00.020+01:00

For over 10 years now, Dobson Sound has been involved with the Wintershall Estate's theatrical productions of The Life of Christ. The Wintershall Estate, in the heart of stunning Surrey countryside, is privately owned and comprises park land and a quality organic lamb and beef farm. It is also the home of productions of The Acts of the Apostles and The Wintershall Nativity play.

"Peter Hutley, an imaginative and passionate Roman Catholic... wrote a three-act play based on the life of Christ, and it was first performed on the estate in 1999. The play begins with the Nativity, and ends with the Ascension. The grounds contain representations of such places as the inn in Bethlehem, Lazarus’s tomb and the Temple in Jerusalem. A lake acts as the river Jordan and the Sea of Galilee. The audience moves with the action, while a professional PA system using 60 loudspeakers and 16 radio microphones mixes the spoken word with evocative music.

A 200-strong cast act out the five-and-a-half-hour-long Life of Christ in the open air. Last year, 15,000 people turned up over the six days to witness the production."

The Times Online

Over the years we've used a number of different d&b speakers on the site. The sound requirements this year are going to utilise 40 d&b E3 speakers and over 30 of the new d&b T10 speakers. The rigging and positioning of speakers is unique to say the least...

This years Life of Christ play, will run from 23rd to 28th June 2009. You can buy tickets here.

The cast members of the Life of Christ also come together to perform The Passion at Easter to the shoppers in Guildford High Street. Dobson Sound also provides sound requirements for this event.

Dinosaur and rocket hit Oxford Street on traffic free day

2009-05-28T12:41:00.004+01:00

On Saturday May 23rd, Dobson Sound were contracted by AD Events Ltd to provide sound systems for a variety of areas in and around Oxford Street, in London's West End. Oxford Street was enjoying a traffic free day with many stores opening until 9pm and special events taking place to celebrate the release of Night at the Museum 2.

As well as stores putting on live music, promotions and special offers, Night at the Museum 2 characters were featured, along with a 13m dinosaur and a 10m model rocket.

Event Magazine preview

Dobson Sound provided sound systems on flat bed trucks for the dinosaur and rocket sound effects, as well as a DJ system in the Heart FM tent and a small PA outside Selfridges, for a Hannah Montana promotion.

Royal Opera House: BP Summer Big Screens: La Traviata, 30th June 2009

2009-05-15T11:56:00.015+01:00

'Ondine' performance: 3rd June details

On June 30th, Dobson Sound continue their season of Royal Opera House outdoor relays, with a performance of La Traviata.

Performance timings as follows:

Pre performance events start from 6.30pm

The main feature starts 7pm
Approximate timings 2 hours and 45 minutes.

Act I 35 minutes
Interval 30 minutes
Act II scene 1 44 minutes
Pause
Act II scene 2 22 minutes
Interval 25 minutes
Act III 35 minutes

Dobson Sound will be providing sound systems at the following venues:

BP Sunbury Business Park

Duthie Park, Aberdeen

Christchurch Park, Ipswich

Trafalgar Square, London

Milking the 'd&b T-series' down at The Dairy

2009-05-14T15:24:00.009+01:00

Dobson Sound used the d&b audiotechnik T-series during Fisher Productions Ltd relaunch and their 25th Birthday Party, on May 13th.

The Dairy, 7 Wakefield Street WC1, was transformed into four distinct areas: Space, Lounge, Water & Decadence.

All areas utilised d&b audiotechnik speakers, with the Lounge and Waters areas covered by four d&b T10s flown from the roof. Decadence had a small cabaret system, with T10s and E12-SUBs, whilst Space had the main DJ system of a B2, Q-SUB and two Q1s per side.

The DJ control equipment comprised of a Pioneer DJM800 mixer, two Pioneer CDJ1000 MKIIIs and two Technics SL1210s.

"The d&b audiotechnik T10s proved to be a great success; even at the start of the night, when the system was at low level, they produced incredible clarity over the general background noise. They were quick and easy to rig and sounded great in all areas we used them."

Richard Mortimer, Project Manager, Dobson Sound

Event Magazine coverage

Royal Opera House: BP Summer Big Screens: Ondine, June 3rd 2009

2009-05-14T12:18:00.021+01:00

This year's run of the Royal Opera House BP Summer Big Screens starts on June 3rd, with relays of 'Ondine', at various sites around the country.

Dobson Sound, who are working directly for the Royal Opera House, will be providing sound systems at the following locations:

Trafalgar Square, London

Pre performance events start from 7pm

The main feature starts at 7.30pm
Approximate timings 2 hours 40 mins

Act 1 44 mins
Interval 30 mins
Act II 22 mins
Interval 30 mins
Acts III 31 mins

Sound system:

Dobson Sound will relay a live feed via satellite of Ondine from the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden.

The main left and right hang will consist of eight d&b audiotechnik Q1 speakers, flown at a height of 12.5m from Smart Masts, 15m out left and right from the centre line of the screen. d&b audiotechnik J-SUBS will be placed on the floor, at the foot of each mast.

Four d&b audiotechnik Q7 speakers placed on stands along the front of the screen will cover the nearfield audience.

A surround left and right feed will go to two hangs of three d&b audiotechnik Q1 speakers, flown at a height of 7.5m from Prolyte H30 masts, approx 25m from the main hangs.

Botanic Gardens, Belfast

Botanic Gardens is at the heart of the Queens Quarter. One of the liveliest areas of the city, it offers the visitor a wide-ranging choice of how to spend their time. The Queens area is famed for wine bars, bistros and restaurants, boutique shopping on the Lisburn Road, galleries, and some of the city's most popular nightclubs.

Pre-ballet entertainment from 6.15pm
Gates open at 5pm

Limited capacity. Terms & conditions apply.

The main feature starts at 7.30pm
Approximate timings 2 hours 40 mins

Act 1 44 mins
Interval 30 mins
Act II 22 mins
Interval 30 mins
Acts III 31 mins

Sound system:

Dobson Sound will relay a live feed via satellite of Ondine from the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden

Main left and right hang to consist of six d&b audiotechnik Q1 speakers, flown at a height of 15m from 25 tonne cranes, 15m out left and right from the centre line of the screen. d&b audiotechnik J-SUBS will be placed on the floor at the foot of the screen.

Four d&b audiotechnik Q7 speakers speakers placed on stands along the front of the screen will cover the nearfield audience.

A surround left and right feed will go to two hangs of three d&b audiotechnik Q1 speakers, flown at a height of 15m from 55 tonne cranes, approx 30m from the main hangs.

Previous posts:

Romeo & Juliet, June 2008

BP Summer Big Screens, 2001 - present

'Transformers 2' UK premiere, Leicester Square 15th June 2009

2009-05-14T11:57:00.006+01:00

On the 15th June, the UK premiere of Transformers 2 will take place at the Odeon Leicester Square, London. Dobson Sound are due to provide outdoor sound relay for the watching crowds, with us again working for Premier PR.

d&b audiotechnik T-series has it's first outing at Old Billingsgate, London.

2009-05-13T14:40:00.043+01:00

White Space Productions Ltd were contracted by the PPA - The association for publishers and providers of consumer, customer and business media in the UK - to provide production for the 37th FIPP World Magazine Congress at Old Billingsgate, London, between May 4th - 6th.

See photo slideshow on the Event Magazine website

White Space Productions' sound designer, Mark Isbister, used Dobson Sound, a long term supplier to WSP, to supply all sound equipment for the event. The sound systems in the three auditoriums (1000 seat, 300 seat & 200 seat) were all designed including the d&b audiotechnik T-series, the first time Dobson's stock had been used since it's arrival at the start of the month:

"This unique space is highly reverberant and the main auditorium required a sound system which could deliver high quality speech and music playback, without sound spillage into the surrounding meeting and exposition areas.

I had attended a demonstration of the new d&b T10 loudspeaker system and decided that it would be ideally suited to this design brief. The system was configured as two main left right line arrays with additional small delay hangs running down the length of the room, on a central truss. This was my first time using this system, which produced an incredibly smooth warm sound throughout the audience area, while its small size and low weight, allowed me to position the arrays in locations which wouldn’t be possible with a larger system.

In addition to the main conference auditorium, I also designed a system for the expo area, which utilized d&b Q-series arrays for the left right system with d&b Q10 loudspeakers used for delays. This system provided sound for a large screen relay of the main presentation and also handled all the music elements of the Tuesday night entertainment including a live band.

Two further systems were also needed for the breakout rooms and these were a mixture of more d&b T10s, this time in point source mode, and the smaller d&b E3 loudspeakers.

All the sound equipment was supplied by Dobson Sound Productions Ltd."

Mark Isbister, Sound Designer

"Not only was the T-series a great sounding box but the set-up, weight and ease of rigging was a massive factor as all the hangs could be slung off Pro-star motors, saving cost and weight loadings on rigging. The complete set-up was very fast, which is what we needed as this event (like most), had to install in a big rush and the actual time the sound team took to tune the system and faff (!) must have been the shortest in my history of events. We will be using the T-series wherever possible from now on."

Richard Owers, Production Manager

Late at Tate, Friday June 5th 2009

2009-05-13T11:52:00.009+01:00

Following a run of events dominated by electronic artists, Tate Britain's next 'Late at Tate' in June, promises to get back to basics... early twentieth century analogue basics, with the Shellac Sisters playing 78s on wind-up gramophones in Room 9.

"Join us for an evening celebrating London's many histories. Tate Britain's archive is open all evening revealing the transformation of Tate over the years, as well as providing a special insight into some of London's famous artist groups. Be transported to Blake's 1801 Soho exhibition, hear a talk by Chris Orr about the life of William Blake and see his series on display in Tate's Prints and Drawings room. Plus relax with a drink, accompanied by genuine vintage gramophone DJs."

More information on Tate Britain's website

'Night at the Museum 2' Premiere, Empire Leicester Square, 12th May 2009

2009-05-13T09:00:00.005+01:00

On Tuesday May 12th, Dobson Sound were contracted by Premier PR, to provide outdoor sound relay for watching crowds at the Night at the Museum 2: Battle of the Smithsonian premiere.

See here for pictures of the stars, including Ben Stiller and Ricky Gervais.

Dobson Sound new stock available: d&b audiotechnik T-series and Yamaha digital consoles

2009-05-08T10:42:00.007+01:00

As mentioned in an earlier blog post, we have now taken delivery of the new d&b audiotechnik T-series.

We have also added some Yamaha digital consoles to our stock:

LS9-16 digital mixer

LS9-32 digital mixer

M7CL-48 digital mixer

'Star Trek' UK Premiere, Leicester Square, April 20th

2009-04-06T12:32:00.009+01:00

The new Star Trek film, scheduled for full release on the 8th May, will have it's UK premiere in Leicester Square on April 20th.

See the official website and trailer here.

Continuing a busy season of film premieres, Dobson Sound will again be providing outdoor sound requirements to relay audio to the watching crowds.

Late at Tate, April 3rd 2009: Futureproof

2009-03-30T17:19:00.022+01:00

It's that time of the month again... Dobson Sound are providing sound requirements in Tate Britain's Room 9 where, "Music creative Phil Legg's label FUTUREPROOF, showcase a diverse selection of UK talent at April's Late at Tate Britain...

... From Grasscut, with award winning film/TV composer Andrew Phillips, with an original take on a mix of modern classical & electro pop as the foundation for their interactive visual content, to Mavro, the leftfield chillout act with tastes of their album Worlds Apart. Ending the evening is electronica team Yimino with visuals by Stuart Sinclair. Entry is free so come sip on some southbank glory with us".

Futureproof's MySpace

Room 9

19.00 - 19.30 Public Symphony

First to perform is Public Symphony who have been described as "a Pink Floyd for the Coldplay generation" and create expansive soundscapes in which their inspiring songs come alive. Members of Public Symphony have previously worked with Soul Avengerz, Supernatural, Zero 7 and BT as well as recently releasing their album of the same name to critical acclaim with excellent reviews in the Guardian and the Sunday Times Culture magazine.

19.40 - 20.10 Grasscut

Hailing from Brighton is the duo Grasscut featuring the award winning film/TV composer Andrew Phillips known for his work with One Giant Leap and music journalist / radio DJ Marcus O'Dair. Grasscut's original take on a mix of modern classical & electro lays the foundation for their fantastic interactive visual show. "A celebration of England at its naffest and most beautiful." Steve Lamacq - BBC 6 Music.

20.20 - 20.50 Mavro

Debuting amidst Tate Britain's Altermodern exhibition, Futureproof presents their latest signing Mavro. This Brighton based 2-piece meld sultry leftfield electronics from songwriter Paris May with the timeless melodies of vocalist Jade Pybus. The showcase will feature tracks from their debut album Worlds Apart.

21.00 - 21.30 Yimino

UK electronica act Yimino line up to deliver their truly immersive audio-visual experience to the Late at Tate audience. Hotly tipped as the "young pretenders to the warm electronica crown" by Warp Records duo Plaid, you can catch them performing tracks from their new album Autonoe Vora, accompanied by the brilliant animations of Stewart Sinclair. For aficionados of all things ambient and digital, this should not be missed.

A Natural Key

We're also providing requirements for SHEZAD DAWOOD in the Lightbox, with his last selection for Tate Britain: artist Mike Chavez-Dawson will be presenting a 'performative sound collage'.

Midas consoles for sale: H1000 & Siena

2009-03-30T14:39:00.010+01:00

Dobson Sound currently have two ex-rental Midas consoles for sale:

Heritage 1000 (24 channel)

"The Heritage 1000 brings the unmistakable sound and legendary engineering quality of the Midas brand in a light and compact modular frame.

Its sophisticated automation (like a mini XL4) makes it suitable for a variety of applications, but especially for theatres where space is often at a premium. On top of this Midas' Heritage 1000 Library Manager software allows sound designers the option of creating hundreds of scene snapshots in the comfort of their own home before rehearsals have even started. The standard 8-way matrix, which can be fed from auxiliaries, groups and masters, can be expanded to suit the largest zoning requirements.

The Heritage 1000 also enables traditional Midas customers to use their preferred brand of console for their smaller events, or even link to existing stocks of Heritage consoles for big, complex shows where large numbers of inputs are required (matrix outputs can be swapped for inputs). For smaller rental companies, the Heritage 1000 is the perfect vehicle for introducing Midas values and performance to a more price-sensitive area of the market."

Siena 480 (48 channel)

"Siena brings all of Midas' knowledge and experience in building dual-purpose consoles, such as the industry-leading Heritage 3000 and the now-legendary XL3, and offers all of these benefits in a compact package. Siena has been designed to both compliment and expand the ground-breaking Verona concept. Built on the highly successful, proven Verona platform, the Siena represents a combination of superb audio performance, and increased functionality, creating a new, class-leading, dual-purpose console.

Siena is more than a Verona with extra auxes. The buss structure has been redesigned to be more appropriate for monitor use. Sophisticated engineering solutions have been employed, such as the advanced Solo Tracking System, switched inserts on outputs, and a powerful logic controlled solo system.

Siena has a comprehensive control surface, however, it still maintains the familiar ergonomic layout of all Midas consoles, making navigation around the control surface quick, easy and intuitive.

Siena will appeal to the discerning audio professional, be they working in Concert sound, Theatre, Broadcast, House-of-worship or Audio-Visual, and at either end of the multicore."

Please email ex-rentalsales@dobsonsound.co.uk for specific prices and more information.

Mixing console spares for sale: Midas Heritage, XL2 and Yamaha PM3500 desk modules

2009-03-28T15:02:00.003Z

Dobson Sound have the following desk modules for sale:

Midas:

Midas HS0005 (stereo input module)
Midas HS0001 (mono input module)
Midas HS0012 (mono group module)

Midas XL202 (stereo input module)
Midas XL201 (mono input module)
Midas XL241 (mono group module)
Midas XL211 (stereo group module)

Yamaha:

Yamaha MN3500 (mono input for PM3500)

Please email ex-rentalsales@dobsonsound.co.uk for specific prices and more information.

d&b audiotechnik speakers for sale: Q7s, Q10s and E3s

2009-03-27T15:10:00.013Z

Dobson Sound currently have a number of ex-rental d&b audiotechnik speakers for sale:

E-series: E3s

Q-series: Q7s and Q10s

Please email ex-rentalsales@dobsonsound.co.uk for specific prices and more information.

Dobson Sound to take delivery of the new 'd&b audiotechnik T-Series'

2009-03-27T11:46:00.012Z

Following a demonstration of the new T-Series by d&b audiotechnik at our warehouse, Dobson Sound are pleased to announce they will shortly be taking delivery of a number of T10s and T-subs.

"The T-Series is intentionally designed to address an extremely wide range of small to medium sized applications from multiple cabinet line arrays through to single standalone loudspeakers for deployment in locations sharing the same fundamental requirements, to achieve precise control of directivity and maintain this to the lowest possible frequency. A combination of techniques is used; dipolar low frequency driver arrangements, low compression venting with high excursion drivers and a unique combination of a rotatable waveguide horn and acoustic lens. The unobtrusive visual design, compact dimensions, light weight, high power and exemplary directivity performance... makes the T-Series loudspeakers, the perfect option for speech and music."

The T10 is a passive 2-way loudspeaker housing two 6.5" drivers positioned in a dipolar arrangement and a 1.4" HF compression driver and a passive crossover network. The T10 can be used both as a line array and as a high directivity point source loudspeaker. The HF driver is fitted to a unique waveguide horn producing vertical line source directivity with a 90° horizontal pattern that is maintained down to approximately 600 Hz. An acoustic lens placed in front of the horn widens horizontal dispersion to 105°, rotation of the horn by 90° relative to this produces an accurate point source dispersion transforming a vertically oriented T10 into a standalone full range loudspeaker with 90° horizontal and 35° vertical directivity pattern.

The T-SUB is an actively driven bass-reflex loudspeaker fitted with a high excursion 15" driver. d&b SenseDrive technology is available when powered by the D12 amplifier. It can be used to supplement the LF headroom of the T10 loudspeaker in various combinations, ground stacked or flown, either integrated on top of a T10 array or as a separate column.

We feel the T-Series will be an excellent addition to our d&b stock and look forward to using it in some of the more acoustically challenging environments we come across. The accurate point source nature of the design will improve intelligibility even further in some of these spaces and given the system is also usuable in a vertical line array, it's flexibility has been a major factor in our decision.

The People's Music Awards 2008/09

2009-03-26T12:18:00.023Z

On Thursday 2nd April, Dobson Sound will be providing sound requirements at Mass in Brixton, when it plays host to the inaugral, 'People's Music Awards'.

As the website says, "Welcome to the People's Music Awards, the first ever global unsigned music awards. This awards and website is dedicated to the promotion and development of new and unsigned bands, and aims to give all of you unsung heroes, the glory and recognition you deserve. It is completely free to take part in the awards, as a contestant, judge, fan or all round music lover... Who wins is, up to you!"

There will be 12 bands / performers playing live on the night, doors open at 6.30pm!

Late at Tate, March 6th 2009 - Altermodern: Remix

2009-03-05T10:54:00.009Z

After a short month, 'Late at Tate' is back! "Exploring some of the themes raised by the idea of Altermodern in music, contemporary art and society, this Late at Tate takes the concept of remixing to the gallery with DJing from CDR, free-style poetry from Platform 21, and discussions on docu-fiction with Defina Foundation."

Dobson Sound are again involved, specifically with Room 9 and the Lightbox.

18.30-21.30 - Room 9

'Works in Progress' 3 hour DJ set from CDR, a night of ideas and tracks in the making, with DJs Tony Nwachukwu (NEPA Recordings, Attica Blues) and Gavin Alexander (Call 'n' Response) spinning an exclusive set of music from the extensive CDR music archive sourced from music heard and developed at their renowned CDR sessions from their ever-growing global community of music-makers. Featuring special guest live sets from CDR collaborators Soundspecies 19.15 - 20.00, and Dorian Concept 20.15 -21.00.

18.45-19.30 - The Lightbox

Cult psycho-country band Lonesome Cowboys from Hell are performing a special set filled with artistic indifference and heart-felt immorality.

Lonesome Cowboys from Hell are: Frank E. the Lonely Woodsman (Calum F. Kerr, Vocals), Blind 'Gentleman' Jk-ee (Tim Flitcroft, Vocals/All other instruments) & Jan 'Devil Bucket' Maat (Jan Suchanek, Bucket Bass).With special guests Roadeo Marco (Marc Vaulbert de Chantilly), Daisy May (Pawla Cottage) and more

Full schedule can be found here

DJ equipment for hire - Pioneer DJM800 / DJM600, CDJ1000 and Technics SL1210

2009-03-03T09:40:00.003Z

Current DJ equipment for hire at Dobson Sound includes:

Pioneer's professional-grade mixer, the DJM800. This includes a 'harmonic mixing' capability, which is a landmark innovation that detects a track's key and automatically aligns it to the closest true key, removing inaccuracies created when adjusting the pitch. With digital connectivity, a large bright dot matrix display and a wide a range of high quality effects, the DJM-800 enables DJs to perfect pristine mixing.
We also stock the earlier DJM600 model.

Pioneer's CDJ1000Mk3, which has full MP3 support including VBR files, intelligent features, such as the direct folder search button, allow DJs to quickly access files within folders on the disc for intuitive, fast cueing. A total wide tempo range (+70% to –100%) also gives greater control than many competitor models.
We also stock the earlier CDJ1000Mk2 model.

Technics' ubiquitous SL series turntables (SL1210Mk2 & SL1210Mk5). With over 3 million produced worldwide since it's introduction in 197os, it's generally seen as the industry standard, despite some competition appearing over the last few years.

We're also able to source other equipment, depending on personal DJ choice.

For specific hire rates on the above, see the hire page on our website.

David Byrne to play the Big Chill Festival

2009-02-25T12:10:00.015Z

David Byrne will perform at this year's Big Chill festival. He's probably best known for co-founding Talking Heads, who were acclaimed by critics and audiences alike, during the band's years, between 1974 and 1991.

Since then, their music has proved to be incredibly influential, especially the three albums produced by Brian Eno; 1978's More Songs About Buildings and Food, 1979's Fear of Music and 1980's Remain in Light.

Added to these, the album Byrne and Eno produced together in 1981, My Life in the Bush of Ghosts has had an even larger impact on modern music and production. Although sampling had been used prior to this album, argubly, no one had used it to such great effect and it's seen by many as a groundbreaking release.

David Byrne and Brian Eno have recently released their first collaborative album in over 30 years, Everything That Happens Will happen Today.

Songs from all of these will be performed on Sunday at The Big Chill.

Photos from 'Late at Tate', February 6th 2009

2009-02-11T11:39:00.020Z

Fresh from another 'Late at Tate', here's some additional information about the night, including some photos of artists performing in 'Room 9'.

Sound artist Max Eastley became known as 'The Ears of Cape Farewell' during the time he spent capturing sounds in the Arctic wilderness. Eastley spoke of this experience, playing a selection of the sounds he returned with and performed live alongside his critically acclaimed composition 'Arctic'.

Beatboxer Shlomo, joined the Cape Farewell expedition to West Coast Greenland in 2008. Shlomo talked about his initial feelings towards climate change while introducing his audience to his particular brand of making music, sound which comes 'all from the mouth'.

KT Tunstall was a surprise addition on the night, performing alongside Shlomo.

'Time Out' also recommended the evening, mentioning that Duke Garwood would be recreating some of the soundtrack pieces for the film 'Feature', by Shezad Dawood.

Robyn Hitchcock was the surprise guest.

Photos from Gormski on flickr
Some text from Tate's website

'The Boat That Rocked' UK premiere

2009-02-09T12:54:00.010Z

Richard Curtis has written and directed, 'The Boat that Rocked' which is a period comedy about an illegal radio station in the North Sea in the 1960s. Starring Philip Seymour Hoffman, Emma Thompson, Kenneth Branagh and Rhys Ifans, the film is due for release on the 3rd April with a UK premiere in Leicester Square in late March. Continuing a busy period of film premieres, Dobson Sound will again be providing sound requirements for the outdoor element.

'The Disco Files: 1973-78' by Vince Aletti and David Mancuso's 'Loft Parties'

2009-02-09T12:40:00.008Z

DJHistory.com will release a collection of Vince Aletti's articles about the emerging disco phenomenon of the 1970s later this year. Aletti's book, entitled The Disco Files: 1973-78, will feature all of his weekly columns for Record World (which include playlists from disco legends such as Larry Levan, Walter Gibbons and Nicky Siano) in addition to other disco-related articles for magazines such as Rolling Stone. Vince Aletti was one of the first people to write about disco (in a piece published in Rolling Stone in 1973), after discovering clubs like David Mancuso's Loft in the early seventies. His disco column in Record World was required reading for both its critical awareness and its enthusiasm for the scene.

The Disco Files will see a release in April, but in the meantime you can check out DJHistory's interview with Aletti, and even a PDF sample of of some of the book's contents.

Dobson Sound provided sound systems for David Mancuso's London Loft Parties between 2004 and 2005. Previous blog post can be found here.

Information and some text taken from Resident Advisor.

'The Damned United' UK premiere

2009-02-09T12:33:00.006Z

Based on the 2006 novel by David Peace, 'The Damned United' takes a look at Brian Clough's short reign as the coach of Leeds United. It was directed by Tom Hooper and adapted by Peter Morgan, and will be released in the United Kingdom on 27 March 2009. Dobson Sound are due to provide sound requirements for the Leicester Square premiere on mid / late March.

"Anyone familiar with David Peace’s brilliant novel ‘The Damned United’ – the source for this new film – will know the story of Clough’s brief flirtation with Leeds United. In July 1974, 39-year-old Clough took over from his arch rival, Don Revie, who left the club after 13 years to manage England. Clough failed to repeat the brilliance that he’d demonstrated over six years as the manager of Derby County, a team he dragged from the bottom of the second division to the top rungs of the first. Under Clough, Leeds won only two games out of ten. But this misadventure didn’t dampen his fame: interviewers, commentators and impressionists continued to lap up his dry wit and jokey, sometimes caustic tongue. He was a celebrity before football had heard of the word." Time Out features

'd&b audiotechnik' news archive articles featuring 'Dobson Sound Productions'

2009-02-04T14:03:00.016Z

The news section of d&b audiotechnik's website is a good place to keep up to date with a selection of highlighted installations and shows involving d&b systems.

You can see the articles featuring Dobson Sound here.

Js for Elton John at Doncaster
Hot subs, Big Chill
Eclectic mix of d&b for Scouting for Girls

Chi2 'Monkey King' Autumn Tour and 'LT Chi Sound System' debut album

2009-02-04T10:03:00.006Z

Dobson Sound previously toured with Chi2 back in May 2008 and hope to continue their relationship in the Autumn, following the release of further tour dates. The 'Monkey King Autumn Tour' starts in Leicester, with a show at the De Montfort Hall, with further London dates due to be announced.

Meanwhile, Chi2 member Liz, together with Tom E Morrison, has been busy with a sideline project, LT Chi Sound System. They've released their debut album, Time is Like Water Flowing, which has been described as ‘Chinese Café del Mar’.

'Monsters vs Aliens' London film premiere, Leicester Square, March 2009

2009-02-04T09:28:00.013Z

Continuing with a busy schedule of film premieres, Dobson Sound are due to provide sound requirements for the outdoor element of the 'Monsters & Aliens' London premiere, in Leicester Square early next month.

This will be the first computer animated movie which will be produced in real 3-D, instead of converting the film into 3-D after it is finished. The film pays homage to cult sci-fi classics such as; 'Attack of the 50 Foot Woman', 'The Fly', 'Creature from the Black Lagoon' and 'The Blob'.

The film is scheduled for a March 27th, 2009 release.

'Duplicity' London film premiere, Leicester Square, 10th March 2009

2009-02-03T15:07:00.019Z

Dobson Sound are due to provide outdoor sound requirements for the 'Duplicity'' premiere in Leicester Square. The film stars Julia Roberts and Clive Owen, and involves a plot in which two longtime lovers and corporate spies team up to stage an elaborate con and steal a valuable product. The film is due for release on the 20th March.

Film Premieres: 'Seven Pounds' & 'Revolutionary Road'

2009-01-30T12:53:00.016Z

January has seen the release of several high profile Hollywood films, including 'Seven Pounds', starring Will Smith and 'Revolutionary Road', starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet. Both films featured premieres in Leicester Square, London where Dobson Sound provided sound requirements for their client, Premier PR.

For 'Seven Pounds', on the 14th January, we provided DJ equipment and PA for the exterior crowds, including radio link to speakers in the Square itself, along with microphones for audience announcements whilst Will Smith signed autographs and met the crowds.

On the 18th January, we provided a slightly simpler system, to enable amplification of Revolutionary Road's soundtrack to the watching crowds.

Both Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet were kept busy with autographs!

Late at Tate, February 6th: Cape Farewell featuring live music from Max Eastley, Shlomo and Duke Garwood.

2009-01-28T21:02:00.024Z

Dobson Sound are due to provide sound requirements for part of 'Late at Tate' at Tate Britain, on February 6th. Joint collaborators are Cape Farewell, created in 2001 to instigate a cultural response to climate change. A diverse choice of artists continues for these events, with sound artist Max Eastley...

performing in Room 9, followed by 'human beatbox' artist, Shlomo.

Also, perfoming in the 'Lightbox' as part of the Altermodern: Tate Triennial program, is blues experimental artist, Duke Garwood

More information from the Tate's website:

Friday 6 February 2009
18.00–22.00
Take an ecological view at Late at Tate Britain this month.
Join collaborators from the Cape Farewell project as we bring the natural world into the gallery with talks from artists and creative practitioners fresh from expeditions to the North Pole.

Orbital reform to play The Big Chill Festival, 2009

2009-01-16T12:53:00.009Z

Orbital are due to reform to headline the Big Chill Festival in 2009. Having split in 2004, this will be their first live performance for over 5 years.

Over a ten year period during the 90s and early 00s, Orbital became firm festival favourites, with many people seeing their 1994 Glastonbury performance as a pivotal influence on 'rock' fans seeing the merits of a 'live' dance act. Q magazine rated it as one of the top 50 gigs of all time.

2004 performance of Chime:

Line-up so far, can be seen here

Resident Advisor's 2008 highlights... The Big Chill Festival

2009-01-13T11:33:00.012Z

Resident Advisor have collated highlights of a years partying around the globe, with a feature, '2008 in pictures'.

August's highlights include, The Big Chill festival:

Picture key:
a) A man (Sasha) and his machine (Maven) at Back 2 Basics, North, UK
b) Another Heartthrob sighting at Stars Gathering, Zelena Gaj, Slovenia
c) Efdemin being careful not to upset the balance at Meandyou, North, UK
d) Weatherall going grunge at Fabric, London, UK
e) A reflecting DJ at Kr02, Cape Town, SA
f) Coxy enjoying himself at South West Four, London, UK
g) It's winter Down Under at Splendour in the Grass, Syney, Australia
h) But not at The Big Chill, South + East, UK
i) The Crookers bring the ruckus at Field Day Official Afterparty, London, UK
j) Mayer rocking The White Isle at Goa, Ibiza, Spain
k) Trentemoller and his many machines at The Big Chill, South + East, UK

Tickets for 2009's Big Chill are on sale now, with the line-up taking shape too.

Save the Children, Festival of Trees at the Natural History Museum

2009-01-08T11:50:00.015Z

For the past 16 years, Dobson Sound have been proud to support the 'Save the Children Fund', by providing sound requirements for their annual 'Festival of Trees' event at the Natural History Museum, one of the highlights of the winter social calender.

2008 was no exception, as their website explains:

"On Tuesday 9 December a spectacular evening unfolded at the Natural History Museum. Leading designers from the world of fashion and design, using their flair and innovation, created spectacular and bespoke Christmas trees that provided the evening with a thrilling auction."

"Since its beginnings Festival of Trees has raised over £4 million to support Save the Children's vital work with vulnerable children in the UK and around the world."

Watch the 2007 Festival of Trees highlights:

If you'd like anymore information about this or future events, please contact Lizzie Redfern at Save the Children l.redfern@savethechildren.org.uk

Approved supplier to Unique Venues in London, Historic Royal Palaces and other specialist venues

2009-01-07T15:41:00.040Z

Dobson Sound have enjoyed a long working relationship with the venues listed below, some stretching back for 20 years. Indeed, Dobson Sound were the first specialist sound company to work in many of these venues.

Over the years, we have attained unique knowledge and the necessary requirements to work successfully within their rooms and galleries. We have designed sound systems able to achieve optimum sound quality within their spaces, some of which have incredibly challenging acoustics. We've also gained detailed logistical knowledge, allowing us to work within the venues' regulations and extremely tight time constraints.

NHM
Approved supplier since 1989

V&A Museum
Approved supplier since 1989

Science Museum
Approved supplier since 1989

Tate Britain

Approved supplier since 1992

Tate Modern

Approved supplier since 1999

The British Museum
Approved supplier since 1992

(Banqueting House, Kensington Palace, Tower of London, Hampton Court Palace)
Approved supplier since 1992

Royal Academy of Arts
Approved supplier since 1992

The Wallace Collection
Approved supplier since 1994

The National Gallery
Approved supplier since 1994

Serpentine Gallery

Serpentine Gallery
Approved supplier since 1995

Royal College of Art
Approved supplier since 1997:

ROYAL ALBERT HALL

Royal Albert Hall
Approved supplier since 1997

SOMERSET HOUSE

Somerset House
Approved supplier since 1997

Royal Opera House
Approved supplier since 1999:

National Portrait Gallery

National Portrait Gallery
Approved supplier since 1999

(Eltham Palace)

Approved supplier since 1999

Blenheim Palace
Approved supplier since 1999:

National Maritime Museum
Approved supplier since 2000

Two Temple Place
Approved supplier since 2001

Elton John's New Year's Eve Party with Will Young, Alexandra Burke, The Overtures & Sealife at The O2

2009-01-05T16:49:00.013Z

On New Year's Eve, Dobson Sound were involved with 'Elton John's NYE Party' at the O2 Arena in London. We were brought in to supply the FOH, monitoring and stage equipment for the additional acts on the night. These included: Will Young, The Overtures, Sealife and X-Factor winner Alexandra Burke, who performed her NO. 1 single, 'Hallelujah'.

We provided feeds to broadcast for Alexandra Burke's performance of 'Hallelujah' and mixed this track to the live audience, as well as the two other band's sets, The Overtures and Sealife.

The party was broadcast on ITV and approximately 17,000 people attended the party itself.

d&b audiotechnik J-series: Sir Elton John Concert, Keepmoat Stadium

2009-01-01T16:30:00.004Z

d&b audiotechnik press release:

Js for Elton John at Doncaster

Total Production International:

Sir Elton John Concert, Keepmoat Stadium

d&b audiotechnik Q-series for NYE soundsystem at The Metropolitan

2008-12-17T09:14:00.012Z

Dobson Sound are due to provide the soundsystem for The Metropolitan's NYE party. Not content with the venue's in-house system, the client has asked us to provide a d&b audiotechnik Q-series system, for the likes of Pete Herbert to make full use of on the 31st.

The Metropolitan is a Real Pub on the Great Western Road, close to Westbourne Park in Notting Hill.

Trafalgar Day, 28th October 2008

2008-11-04T14:28:00.008Z

Trafalgar Day is the most important day in the Sea Cadets calender and for over 100 years, the anniversary of the Battle of Trafalgar has been commemorated by the Sea Cadets corp, marching on Trafalgar Square. On the 28th October, over 200 years since the momentous day that Lord Nelson defeated the French and Spanish fleets, 500 cadets, from the length and breadth of the country, gather to commemorate that victory.

This year, David Mayo from Unusual Services contacted us, to provide a sound system to relay to the whole of Trafalgar Square during the parade. Utilising two Prolyte masts with dual hangs of d&b audiotechnik Q1s for the main system and a combination of d&b audiotechnik Q7s and E3s for in & out fills, the parade proved very successful, despite the somewhat inclement weather!

Statuephilia - Contemporary Sculptors at the British Museum

2008-10-31T16:22:00.019Z

The British Museum is currently displaying five contemporary works alongside their permanent collection, for an exhibition called Statuephilia .

Artists include: Antony Gormley; Damien Hirst; Ron Mueck; Noble and Webster and Marc Quinn

Ron Mueck's 'Mask II'

On the 29th October, Dobson Sound were tasked by the museum to provide small PAs in each of the sculpture areas for the Patron's Open House evening. Various speakers, including Antony Gormley, gave talks about the exhibits, which draw influence from the world-famous collections around them.

Damien Hirst's 'Cornucopia'

The exhibition runs until the 25th January 2009.

Quantum of Solace World Premiere, Leicester Square, London 29th October 2008

2008-10-31T13:22:00.010Z

Dobson Sound were tasked by Nibbs Events, to provide sound requirements for the live audience in and around Leicester Square, during the build up to the World Premiere of 'Quantum of Solace', the new James Bond film.

Leicester Square was transformed for the event, allowing stars and guests to walk the red carpet, then over specially built bridges into each of the major cinemas in Leicester Square. See Guardian clip.

Following the 'Casino Royale' premiere back on the 14th November 2006, Dobson Sound were delighted to be involved with this prestigious series once again.

007 Quantum of Solace Premiere, Leicester Square, London 29th October 2008

2008-10-29T15:22:00.014Z

Dobson Sound are today providing the sound for the outdoor element of the premiere of the next Bond film, Quantum of Solace. The whole of Leicester Square has been being taken over for the event: a performance stage is positioned in the North West corner with a huge LED screen and walkways have been built for the stars to enter all three major cinemas; Odeon Leicester Square, Odeon West End and The Empire.

'Commander Bond' preview

We'll be updating our blog this week with a detailed review of the event. For now, you can watch the action here!

Ex-rental stock for sale: d&b audiotechnik speakers systems and DiGiCo mixing consoles

2008-10-21T13:37:00.011+01:00

As part of a continuing process of upgrading and renewing stock, Dobson Sound are selling ex-rental d&b audiotechnik loudspeakers & amplifiers and DiGiCo mixing consoles.

"We are always keen to keep our rental stock as current as possible, and traditionally the autumn is seen as a good time to move on some of the slightly older stock, preparing for new stock purchases in the spring" said Bill Woods, Operations Director.

If you're interested, please click here for more information on exact equipment for sale and prices.

d&b audiotechnik J-series and Q-series demo

2008-10-20T15:02:00.015+01:00

We recently showcased some d&b audiotechnik speaker systems for a client at our warehouse in Wimbledon:

We had the following systems on show:

Q-series: 2 Q-subs with a Q10 on a wind-up pole per side
J-series: 3 J-subs with 2 J8s per side
Q-series: 1 B2 with a Q-sub and 2 Q1s per side

The demo was for a client who specialises in DJ events.

‘Time Eating Clock’ revealed at Corpus Christi, Cambridge

2008-10-02T11:09:00.003+01:00

On Friday 19th September Corpus Christi College Cambridge unveiled a new clock, outside the college’s library.

Click here to see the clock in action.

Dobson Sound were tasked by Fisher Productions, for their client Colman Getty PR. The audio requirements for the reveal involved the installation of a high-quality speech system to provide coverage on King’s College Green, where most of the watching audience were positioned. The guest of honour was Professor Steven Hawking, who unveiled the ‘time eater’, which has no hands or numbers.

As the BBC website states, ‘Dubbed the strangest clock in the world, it features a giant grasshopper and has 60 slits cut into its face which light up to show the time. The grasshopper or "chronophage", meaning "time eater", advances around the 4ft-wide face, each step marking a second. Its movement triggers blue flashing lights which travel across the face eventually stopping at the correct hour and minute."

Premiere for 'How to Lose Friends and Alienate People'

2008-09-30T15:32:00.008+01:00

On the 24th September, Dobson Sound provided a sound system for the premier of 'How to Lose Friends and Alienate People' at the Empire Cinema, Leicester Square. We were working for Premier PR and were there to provide sound coverage for the watching crowds as the film's stars arrived on the red carpet.

BP Saturdays Loud Tate: Saturday 27th September: Metronomy & Benga photos

2008-09-29T12:09:00.011+01:00

After Dobson Sound provided sound requirements on the main stage, following are some photos and images from the day:

Previous post with more info

Metronomy

Benga

Need 2 Soul enjoy the d&b audiotechnik J-series

2008-09-25T17:08:00.003+01:00

We worked for Need 2 Soul on the Body&SOUL party at Brixton, back in July. We then met up with them again at The Big Chill, when they hosted the Club Tent on the Saturday night...

"We're back after the fantastic party at the Big Chill, on the whole the festival was bigger and better than ever and saw Need2Soul rocking out the 6000 capacity club tent. The setting was amazing and perfect for a summer celebration bringing together some of our favorite DJs. Thanks to everyone who joined us for the magical event."

On both events, Need 2 Soul's DJs were using the d&b audiotechnik J-series.

As a review on Resident Advisor's website says, 'Near perfect festival. sunshine, good people, beautiful location, no hassle. Ame and Trentemoller were superb. who needs Glastonbury?'

BP Saturdays Loud Tate

2008-09-23T10:55:00.008+01:00

BP Saturdays Loud Tate continues on Saturday 27 September 2008 between 12.00 - 17.00. A day of 'abstraction and distortion' for young Londoners at Tate Britain, with live art music and theatre, creative workshops, debate and free food.

Free live art, music and performance from Metronomy, Benga, Toddla T &MC Serocee, Zezi Ifore, Dollop DJs, Enigmolysis, Rival Consoles and Lady Luck Rules Ok!

Dobson Sound, who are working directly for the Tate, will be providing sound requirements for Metronomy, Benga (who we worked with at the Big Chill) and Toddla T &MC Serocee.

We'll be providing DJ equipment consisting of two Pioneer CDJ1000 MKIIIs, Technics 1210s and one of our brand new Pioneer DJM800 s. The system will have a DiGiCo D1 at FOH, with the main stage PA consisting of d&b audiotechnik B2s, Q-subs and Q1s.

The event is getting quite a lot of press and has even been picked up by Resident Advisor, which is one of the world's largest independent electronic online music magazines.

DiGiCo press release: 'Dobson Sound and DiGiCo Consoles Make The Big Chill Sound Cool'

2008-09-08T10:44:00.005+01:00

DiGiCo press release: 'Dobson Sound and DiGiCo Consoles make The Big Chill Sound Cool'

L&Si ONLINE: 'Dobson Sound and DiGiCo Chill Out'

Festival Sound: Line arrays, bass arrays, budgets and the weather!

2008-09-01T10:20:00.005+01:00

One of the biggest sound considerations with any festival is finding the right balance between levels within the arenas and noise pollution, whether that be off-site, or at adjacent stages. Having been involved with the Big Chill for five years, Dobson Sound has seen quite a change in the festival, both in the design and layout of the site and in sound design on the stages themselves.

This really seems to be an issue that festival promoters are taking more seriously now; not only that, they're making a point of mentioning it in their promotional material. Here are a couple of typical quotes found on festival websites this year:

"The issue of sound... has always been one of our biggest challenges. Two years ago we didn't get it right from both the perspective of our audience and also, and just as importantly, from that of those living locally. And on the basis of, '3 strikes and you're out' we realised that we absolutely had to get it right."

"One of the biggest challenges that any promoter faces working in an urban park, is getting the sound levels from the stages right. Every local authority has rules about the amount of noise you can make to ensure that people living nearby aren't unnecessarily disturbed. We've been working with the local authority since November last year and have employed a specialist noise consultancy... We are confident that we will achieve a significant volume increase throughout the site to complement the exciting line up we have secured this year."

With Mark Isbister becoming the overall sound coordinator for the Big Chill back in 2007, he commented that it's, "Quite a unique event... just look at their website and read the comments posted by those who attended, sound is a major pre-occupation with most of them; it's almost like a high powered hi-fi club. It's a matter of record that Pete Laurence, DJ and co-founder of the Big Chill, has always given a high priority to good sound"

The introduction of new line array systems has obviously been a huge factor in the changing trends seen (and heard) over the last few years. In a Sound on Sound feature the importance of this technology (especially relating to festivals) is explained, "Line array theory uses a stack of speakers arranged carefully to create constructive interference on-axis and destructive interference away from it. This has the effect of focusing the sound in front of the stage, instead of wasting power outside the arena. The more elements you add to a line, the tighter the beam becomes vertically. You still have a wide pattern horizontally. Sound escaping upwards and downwards is energy wasted... In addition, local residents don't always appreciate wasted sound energy, and since the festival is now held on the outskirts of town, reducing spill is a priority. If a festival can't comply with with licensing conditions, it's future is at risk"

At 2007's Big Chill, Mark Isbister's approach was to fly all PA in every location, to keep energy focussed down on the audience and avoid spill into unwanted areas. On many of the smaller stages last year (Fat Tuesdays, Finlandia), the PA looked tiny but because it was set-up correctly for the space, the sound level in the audience area was great, whilst spill-away from the arenas was kept to a minimum. These areas really put into focus what the d&b Q1/Q7s are capable of, when used to their full potential.

To further this effect, John Taylor from d&b's Application Support team suggested putting distributed Bass Arrays on more stages to extend pattern control into the sub region. This minimised low frequency spill but also had the added advantage of lobe free bass distribution over the listening area, particularly in the dance environment.

The results last year were a great improvement, as Mark said at the time, "Vanguardia were responsible for noise monitoring across the whole site and they were very happy that we only received one off site complaint, over the whole weekend. The energy in the tent was immense and not just focussed at the heart of the dancefloor for once. More generally, engineers locally at each stage reported greater headroom... over previous years. When you consider some areas operate until 05:00, that's a remarkable achievement."

However, it's not only system design that can affect sound quality. There can also be budget restraints, although having spent three figures on a weekend ticket, this is not something the audience particularly want to hear! Added to that, with the (disputed) meteorlogical conditions experienced at other festivals over the years, acts of God can also be thrown into the mix!

Perceived 'sound quality' is exactly that, it's subjective at the end of the day. Still being a keen festival punter, I'm of the opinion that overall sound has definitely improved over recent years. Having been to four out the last five Big Chills, I certainly think it's seen a marked improvement, especially in the dance tent. The d&b J-series worked really well in this space; it was never as busy as it was this year over the whole weekend. Admittedly, it's not just the PA that has changed in this area; the change in orientation of the dance tent, coupled with the decision to remove the sides of the tent on the Village Green side, has helped enormously. It really feels like a third main stage now.

The festival audience certainly let you know about it if there's 'poor sound' at a festival, as the forums are awash with comments. I've struggled to find many comments this year on the Big Chill's Forum, perhaps as Mark Isbister says because of the, "Age old problem; no one ever comments on good sound, just when it sucks! Guess by lack of forum posts, we did alright!"

Would be great to hear any opinions you have on the above...

Some 'YouTube' highlights from the Big Chill Festival 2008

2008-08-15T10:40:00.013+01:00

Leonard Cohen

Tom Middleton

The Big Chill 2008

2008-08-13T11:02:00.022+01:00

After a really successful Big Chill Festival, which saw the festival into its 14th year with a record attendance of 39,000, we thought it was time to post a few pictures and reviews:

The Big Chill 'Big Hill'

Mark Isbister, who is the Big Chill Festival Sound Coordinator and Designer, was very happy with the way everything went and commented, 'First class crew and service which we (the Big Chill) have come to expect from Dobson Sound and that was the reason they were given the contract, based on their past record.'

Last year's press release from d&b audiotechnik

Highlights of the first day included, Róisín Murphy, Roots Manuva, Luke Vibert and The Orb. As Ian Roulier puts it on the 'musicOMH' website, 'Maintaining this momentum and level of quality tomorrow will surely be impossible, won't it?'

Saturday's line-up included sets by Lykke Li, Bill Bailey, The Mighty Boosh, an hour long classic rave set by Tom Middleton, Plaid, Trentmøller, Big Chill regular Mr Scruff, Matthew Herbert Big Band and The Unabombers.

Crowd at the Open Air Stage for The Mighty Boosh

To highlight the Big Chill's wide ranging musical flavours, on the Sunday, you could have listened to sets from dubstep stars, Benga and Caspa & Roscoe, reggae acts like African Head Charge, regular Sunday afternoon highlight Norman Jay, ambient sessions with Mixmaster Morris, seventies punk from The Buzzcocks and an exclusive set by The Bays and The Heritage Orchestra. However, following his much talked about set at Glastonbury this year, Leonard Cohen was one of the biggest draws over the weekend and, 'Proved to be his memorising self with an unforgettable headline set on Sunday' (www.gigwise.com).

Leonard Cohen on the Open Air Stage

Quote from Mixmaster Morris on Last.fm sums the weekend up in one way, 'Another great BC despite damp weather, cornelius was mindblowing, jon hopkins was epic, the orb were funny, the fake moon was confusing, the jerk chicken was spicy, the cocktails were pricey, the disco shed was jumping, the massage was topnotch, and we'll see you again next year!'

Other reviews...

Day 1 review from the musicOMH website - 5/5 stars
Day 2 review from the musicOMH website - 4.5/5 stars
Day 3 review from the musicOMH website - 4/5 stars

Big Chill review from James Cooper on the inthenews website

Big Chill review from Dan Davies on the virtualfestivals website

Summer Season 2008

2008-07-21T11:04:00.010+01:00

Following a very busy summer period, Dobson Sound is now preparing for it's 5th year at the Big Chill Festival. It's taking place from 1st - 3rd August at Eastnor Deer Park, near Ledbury, in Herefordshire. Like last year, we're working closely alongside the Big Chill's sound coordinator, Mark Isbister.

Having come to the end of the busy summer, it's apparent that we've been involved with a number of interesting and wide-ranging artists over the last few months. To name a few...

Bassekou Kouyate & Ngoni Ba, Billy Joel, Bjorn Again, Black Eyed Peas, Body&SOUL DJs (Francois Kevorkian, Joe Claussell, Danny Krivit), Brian Wilson, British Sea Power, Bryan Ferry, Clocks, The Commitments, Craig David, Duran Duran, Elton John, The Hoosiers, Go:Audio, Grace Jones, Gypsy Kings, Harry Connick Jr, Jamelia, James Morrison, Lemarr, Lulu, Mary Wilson, Prince, Scouting for Girls, Vampire Weekend

Click on links for Wikipedia information on selected artists

Pictures & video footage from Body&SOUL at Carling Academy Brixton, 12th July 2008

2008-07-16T11:11:00.015+01:00

Body&SOUL DJ set up

Clip #1 - Track being played:
Soul Central - Strings of Life (Danny Krivit re-edit)

Clip #2 - Track being played:
The O'Jays - I Love Music

Brixton Academy like you've
never seen it before!:

'Marriage of Figaro' Live on BP Summer Big Screens: 16th July 2008

2008-07-15T15:16:00.006+01:00

Dobson Sound are to provide outdoor sound systems for tomorrow's relay of 'Marriage of Figaro', live from the Royal Opera House. We'll have systems at the following venues:

Duthie Park, Aberdeen
Lakeside Shopping Centre, Thurrock
Trafalgar Square, London

More details can be found on the official website and Time Out's preview of the events

Click here to find your nearest screen

Need2Soul at The Big Chill: 2nd August 2008

2008-07-15T13:51:00.001+01:00

Fresh from Saturday's Body&SOUL night at the Carling Academy, Brixton, Dobson Sound will again be working alongside Need2Soul, when they host the club tent on Saturday 2nd August at The Big Chill Festival.

To quote their website, "We are very happy to announce that we'll be hosting the club tent on Saturday night at this summer's Big Chill Festival. The festival is on the 1st - 3rd August in the beautiful setting of Eastnor Castle Deer Park. Our line-up is almost never ending, pulling out all the stops we've brought together some of the very best DJs from around the world, featuring...

JOE CLAUSSELL / Joaquin 'Joe' Claussell, a constant and revered influence in the house scene, will be headlining. Once again transporting his passion and soul through every single person on the dance floor, as anyone who’s seen him DJ before will know he skillfully works those eqs until his fingers bleed! He has long been one of New York City's busiest dance figures, thanks to his work in all areas of the house community: as a highly respected DJ, producer, remixer, label-head (Spiritual Life Music) , and record-shop owner (Dance Tracks), we are very honoured to have him with us for this special night.

RON TRENT / Chicago resident Ron Trent became a DJ in his early teens in the mid eighties, releasing his first record ‘Altered States’ in 1990 to much acclaim. In the early nineties, Trent collaborated with house/R&B team Hula & Fingers, producers for Jive records, before going on to set up Prescription Records together with Chez Damier. Together with its sister label Balance, Presciption is widely regarded as one of the most influential deep house imprints, introducing the likes of Anthony Nicholson, Abacus, Moody Man, Norma Jean Bell, Joshua, Peven Everett, Rob Mello, and Luke Solomon to the world. A long time friend of Need2Soul, his unparalleled musical knowledge means he always manages to get it just right. We can’t wait to see him in action once again.

ÂME / Âme are German duo Kristian Beyer & Frank Wiedemann. Inspired by the music of Stevie Wonder, WestEnd Rec, Transmat, Weather Report and Herbie Hancock they describe their music as Detroit influenced deep house and music with soul….which makes them the perfect choice. Their deep brand of house music is as clear in their DJ sets as it is on any one of their twelve-inch releases. Technically faultless, their DJ sets are as immaculate as their productions. Their now future classic track, ‘Rej’ went on to sell over 20,000 copies (and counting) and was caned by everyone from Carl Craig and Rainer Truby to Dj Hell! They’ve released a slew of incredible re-mixes and productions over the last year, and are now the mainstay of their own (uber-cool) label, Innervisions.

BENJI B / Well quite simply, Benji B is one of the most exciting DJs to rise from the London scene in a long time. He started in music by learning the saxophone from the age of seven, playing at various clubs around London by 16. Around the same time he started a radio programme with collaborator Gilles Peterson called Worldwide, and produced the live show for Kiss FM for two years. Benji continued to work with Gilles Peterson when the show moved from Kiss FM to BBC Radio 1, and became the youngest ever producer to be making shows for the national station. He now has his own show on BBC1xtra. His radio shows and DJ sets blend tunes from various genres of underground soul music – broken beats, hip-hop, house, UK garage, jazz, soul or Detroit techno. A firm favourite at the Need2Soul parties, it’s only fitting that we get him down to Eastnor.

RAP SAUNDERS / There is one place in London to find Rap Saunders, that is behind the decks at one of the most influential record stores of all time, BM Soho (Black Market Records). As the manager at this home of Underground House, his musical responsibilities stretch far and wide. He began DJing in illegal warehouse parties and moved on to Camouflage, Blue Note, Ministry, The Cross. Nowadays you will find him spinning in Italy, Stockholm, Russia and Slovenia and locally at his own party Soulmates at AKA, and as the one and only Need2Soul resident. With his own inimitable style you'll be guaranteed to feel inspired."

BEN ONONO LIVE/ Raised in West Africa, his sound is a wonderfully fresh perspective on world music. Ben's Story has a plethora of multicultural backdrops and a soundtrack that will break your heart. If you haven't heard of Ben you've almost certainly herd his work; he co-wrote 'It just won't do' with Tim Deluxe, a song which was nominated for an Ivor Novello award for song writing. His lounge classic 'Tattoo Blue' (Tatouage Bleu) was included on the 'Best of Cafe Del Mar' compilation and named tune of the week on Radio 1's Oneworld show.

For full line-up, go to the Big Chill website

Scouting for Girls tour 2008: d&b audiotechnik press release

2008-07-10T10:03:00.006+01:00

d&b audiotechnik press release:

Eclectic mix of d&b for Scouting for Girls

Previous posts:

Scouting for Girls confirm new tour dates

Scouting for Girls... a few photos from tour May 2008

Body&SOUL at the Carling Academy, Brixton Saturday 12th July

2008-07-02T15:22:00.036+01:00

Dobson Sound are due to provide the sound requirements for the Body&SOUL night, which comes to the Carling Academy, Brixton on Saturday July 12th. We're working for Need2Soul, who are promoting the night and also hosting the Saturday night in the dance tent at The Big Chill.

The sound system will consist of two main hangs of d&b audiotechnik J-series (6 J8s & 2 J12s) with 8 J-subs and B2s with two rear stacks of a B2, Q-sub, Q10 and 2 Q1s. Also Q7 & Q10 front fills with Q10s and subs for DJ monitors.
The DJ set-up utilises a Urei 1620 6 channel rotary mixer and a Dope Real Isolator which is used to filter and EQ different parts of tracks they're playing, a style used particularly by Joe Claussell.

The night is part of a string of overseas events this year, which has seen the Body&SOUL party at the following:

First time in France for 'Nuits Sonores', May 8th 2008, from 3pm till 10pm at the Piscine Du Rhone
Returns to Open Air Event in Tokyo, May 18th 2008, noon till late
Zouk in Singapore May 23rd 2008, from midnight till late
Madrid's 'Rock in Rio' Festival, July 5th 2008

As the promoters say, "Following a truly magical event at Canvas last July, which sent ripples through the music industry and was without doubt one of the shows of last summer, London's most discerning audience have a chance to do it all over again....Yes it's back, at one of the world's best venues and a chance for true dance music lovers to witness the Carling Academy Brixton, like never before.

Time Out's preview of the event

Body&SOUL's legacy began in 1996 by legendary pioneers of dance music; Francois K, Joe Claussell and Danny Krivit. Already famous in their own right, this New York dance party was the first time the three resident DJs played together as one. The Body&SOUL events became an international mecca for dance music lovers seeking to enjoy all forms of music, with all the freedom of expression granted on a unified dancefloor.

François K’s career in dance and electronic music goes back to the late 70s in the New York clubs and at the disco label Prelude. He was responsible for many important productions on the European electro/new wave scene in the 80s and started his Wave Music label in the 90s. He has worked his mixing magic on about 1000 records to date and as a DJ and a producer is now exploring the dub and techno sides of electronic music.

Joe Claussell is one of New York’s highly respected dance figures, for his work as a DJ, producer, and remixer, as well as for his label Spiritual Life Music, all of which reflect his deep love for and his eclectic and multicultural taste in dance music. Much of the global dance movement can be traced back to Claussell’s highly percussive style that incorporates Latin, African, Brazilian and other world rhythms with elements of jazz, rock, disco and live instrumentation.

Danny Krivit’s professional DJ status began at the Loft, New York's musical centre and a mecca for DJs, in the 70s. There, he began long term collaboration with Larry Levan and François K. Danny is famous for his edits, has been DJing for over 30 years and has an impressive knowledge of rare disco and jazz. He has recently released mixed compilations on Strut, King Street and Defected.

FK, Joe Claussell & Danny Krivit will play a momentous 9 hour set back to back for a non-stop musical lesson. No warm ups, no guests... three very different DJs with very unique styles; the magic of Body&SOUL lies in how they marry these sounds together, to create a melting pot of music that caters for all dance music lovers. Together, they form one of the most influential music events in history and set the standard on the global dance music scene. It's coming back - Saturday 12th July."

If you're wondering what music styles they play... "60s, 70s, 80s, Club Classics, Deep/Soulful House, Funk, Funky House, House, Jazz, Latin, Minimal Techno, Retro House, Rock, Soul, Tech House, Techno" should just about cover it!

Time Out's feature from last year's event at Canvas, including interview with the three DJs

Promoter: Need2Soul

Venue: Brixton Academy

Club night:Body&SOUL

The DJs: FK : Joe Claussell : Danny Krivit