February 11, 2009

Could “Badfish” equal “Goodtimes?”

 Naming a band has to be one of the most difficult processes ever invented. Believe me, I’ve been there, several times. It’s never unanimous, it’s always a struggle, but I’ve discovered, if your band can survive the band naming process, you’ve overcome a major hurdle.

I admit, when I scan the papers for bands to go see, the band name plays a big factor. I mean, from my point of view, if I don’t know the band or the music, the band name is the only thing left that tries to convey what is going on. The more far out band name, the less chance I’m going to check it out. I’m sure it’s the opposite with lots of people. On one hand, I just can’t see myself going to a “And You Will Know Us by the Trail of the Dead” show. On the other hand, I may be missing the best show in the world.

 And that brings us to the Badfish Band. Not being familiar with these guys, I asked the band about their name, and found out that it’s a reference to a favorite song. Unfortunately, that narrows it down to a few hundred million tunes, and it still doesn’t tell me very much. So we have to do the next best thing, and that’s to show up and listen to their set.  

That way, the next time you see the name Badfish, it’ll be as familiar to you as your latest playlist. 

Badfish plays the River City Friday, Feb. 13.

Read Jim’s interview with the Badfish Band here