LONDON, UK (Pink Box Records) - A UK band who have thrown their hat into the ring for the Christmas No. 1 slot have taken their campaign to a new level with an offer to the public to trade single sales for favors - however outrageous.
Ist is part of the new 'DIY generation' of musicians, who are using their skills and determination to make things happen without the support of a big record deal. It's a very exciting time for independent musicians
Ist released their Christmas double A-side single - The Wreck of the Eddie Fitzpatrick/I am Jesus (And You're Not) on December 11th on Pink Box Records. The single was written and recorded in response to a conversation with veteran songwriter and radio presenter Tom Robinson, in which he encouraged them to deliver a signature tune to radio.
Now, they are offering to trade pretty much anything to get the single into the hands of the public for Christmas.
Lead singer Kenton Hall commented, "It's not so much a marketing technique as it is a determination to break through the public's apathy towards trying new things."
Hall says that no request is too ridiculous.
"You buy a single, we do what you ask. No questions asked. That could mean us buying another band's single or skydiving naked. It's up to the individual. We've made breakfast for someone's grandmother, we've cleaned out someone's gutters, we've sung birthday wishes in drag for stag parties. And willingly. I'm waiting for that one big offer."
And Pink Box are not the only label who see the benefit of bands digging in to fight for recognition in the industry.
Kerry Harvey-Piper of Red Grape Records, whose roster includes legendary singer-songwriter Boo Hewerdine and Icelandic pop pixie Hafdis Huld, commented: "Ist is part of the new 'DIY generation' of musicians, who are using their skills and determination to make things happen without the support of a big record deal. It's a very exciting time for independent musicians"
"The Wreck of the Eddie Fitzpatrick/I am Jesus (And You're Not)" by ist is available from all good download stores worldwide and, on ltd. edition 7" vinyl in independent record stores across the UK.
To participate in their "Sales for Favours" campaign, simply email a copy of the receipt and make a request.
