Beat Surrender Most Frequently Asked Questions
Below are all of the questions we could remember having been asked in the past. If you have a question that's not on here, please feel free to email beatsurrender@alivenetwork.com or call our agent, Alive Network, on 01782 740839.
How much space do you need?
We ask for a space 5m by 3m but we can play in a slightly smaller area if we must. We’re pretty flexible and realise that wedding venues are rarely purpose built so will work around issues wherever we can.
How is it best to time things?
Every wedding is different, and each couple will have slightly different requirements but if you’re having evening food we find that one set of live music before and one after works well.
Can I pick the bands playlist?
We prefer to pick the set list as we know what works well and when and we’ll often mix it up on the night depending on the mood and guests. That being said we welcome suggestions or requests of songs you really want to hear (or don’t want to hear).
Where will you travel to?
We are based in the North East of England but travel throughout the UK for weddings and functions.
Can I see you play live?
Due to the number of private bookings we have it’s rare that we get to play in public.
Will you learn our special song?
If it’s possible we’ll gladly learn your special song. As a three-piece band without piano, brass or strings there are song’s that we feel we just can’t do justice to and in those cases having the original recording is a much better bet. At the time of booking let us know what song you’re thinking about and we’ll let you know if we can do it.
Is the video on your website a true reflection of the band?
The audio for our video was recorded live so what you hear there is what you’ll hear on the night.
How do I book you?
You can book us through the enquiry form on this website or through our agency www.alivenetwork.com. You can also email or call our booking agents on 01782 740839 or email us.
Are you able to DJ in between sets?
As standard we provide a playlist service of background music to go before, between and after our live sets but if you prefer a more bespoke service we do offer a full DJ option. This service is manned at all times by members of the band so that we can take requests and make basic announcements.
Can we make DJ requests in advance to my event?
Yes. We will contact you at least a month before your event to go over the finer details and if you have any requests you can send them over then.
Can we use your sound system for speeches?
You’re welcome to use our sound system for speeches if they fall within our performance times. If you’d like to use the system, outside of those times it will incur a charge. Please note that we do not use radio mics (wireless) so any speeches will need to be made from the stage area.
What equipment do you use?
Over years of playing we’ve built up an impressive sound and light rig and acquired the knowledge needed get the very best from it. Our PA system includes a Mackie digital desk, RCF speakers and DB bass bins for added punch. Each member’s equipment is of the highest order; Fender guitars and basses, DW drums with zildjian cymbals and premium amplifiers all coming together to make a great sound.
Do you have lights?
Included in our price is state of the art LED lighting systems. These include stage lights, flooders and dancefloor lighting made up of strobes, floods, patterns and lasers.
How long do you play for?
Our standard play time is 90 minutes split across two 45-minute sets but we’re happy to discuss your needs if you require something different.
What time do you start and finish?
Our standard fee includes our arrival from 17:00 to be ready for 19:00 and then play at times of your choosing up to midnight. We can arrive earlier or finish later but this will incur additional cost.
How long do you take to set up?
We ask for 90 minutes but can sometimes be done in an hour provided the load in to the room is trouble free.
Can I provisionally book you?
We only consider a booking confirmed once we’ve received your deposit but if you enquire and are keen to book we’ll pencil you into the diary and give you first refusal on the date should another enquiry come in as you are arranging the deposit.
What if the band split up before my event?
The three of us have been playing together for almost ten years now and often take bookings up to two or three years in advance so it’s certainly not something we plan on doing. Not only is the band our passion but it’s also our livelihoods and a business we’ve put a lot of effort into so we really can’t see it happening but if it were to, our agent would find you a suitable replacement. That’s the peace of mind you get from booking through an agency and something you can’t get booking with a band direct.
Can my sisters/bosses/daughters dog sing with your band?
Guest singers are welcome if planned and the person has experience of singing live, but we certainly don’t appreciate stage invaders. In our experience it rarely ends well. Please let us know if you want someone to sing at your event.
What will the band wear?
We normally dress smart wearing dark jeans, white shirts and waistcoats like you see in our photos. We can go smarter or less formal if requested. If your event has a theme or is fancy dress let us know and we’ll do our best to match the dress code.
Does the band have PAT and PLI certificates?
All our equipment has PAT certificates and we have PLI to the value of five million pounds. We have certification for both and are happy to pass this onto clients or their venues.
Why should I book Beat Surrender?
To help your party reach its potential we bring to it a wealth of experience and knowledge that only years of experience can provide. Our large repertoire has been perfected over time allowing us to tailor a set list as diverse as your dancefloor and we deliver that set list with amazing musicianship, stage presence and a professional appearance.
How much does it cost to book the band?
Prices vary slightly depending on the time of year, location, timings and any upgrade options you might have chosen. Please use the enquiry form to get an instant quote. It only takes a minute!
Can we see some previous client testimonials?
Yes. We have hundreds of testimonials from previous satisfied clients on our website.
Do Beat Surrender have any specific requirements?
We make a polite request for a room to change in, drinking water and food. We are more than happy with the same food that the guests are served.
What type/size venues are you able to play at?
We’re able to play at all types and sizes of venues but please let us know the venue capacity beforehand so we know how much equipment to bring.
How loud will the band be?
As a live band we really want you and your guests to feel the energy and passion that they would at a gig whilst they’re on the dancefloor. At the same time we’ll make sure that other guests are still able to converse. As a rock and indie band that plays 100% live there is only so far that we can turn down but if your venue has a noise limiter we will do our best to adhere to it. Over the years we’ve managed to play at venues with the strictest of limits which many bands haven’t been able to meet. Please check with your venue if there is a noise limit in place and let us know at the time of booking.
What is the band power requirement?
We usually request 2 double 13 amp supplies near to the stage area. Our equipment has a relatively low draw being LED but we prefer to run lights from one power source and audio equipment from another to reduce the risk of noise interference. As a rule, we draw approximately 16 amps with everything on and have only ever experienced any issues in events in marquees where the generator capacity has been too low.
Do Beat Surrender offer any additional services?
Yes, we can also offer a professional DJ service to go before, between and after our live sets. This is a professional service manned at all times with a huge library of tracks mixed together. Selecting this option gives you the following benefits over booking a separate DJ:
- All music is played through our professional sound system and complimented by our professional lighting rig.
- No additional space is required for a DJ to set up.
- Seamless changeovers between live music and DJ tracks.
- Cheaper than hiring a separate DJ.