HWCH is a fundamentally good thing for this country, but they need to get their act together. This year seemed to expose the huge double standards in the terms of qualification for the festival; what was a rule for one applicant was dismissed for others. I know one band, for example, who were refused because their album wasn’t “produced to a high enough standard” despite the fact it is literally a perfect example of professional studio production, mixing, and mastering. What more do they want? There are bands on the bill who have only released poor quality, unmastered material.

They also need to extend their scope beyond Dublin. The amount of bands on the bill is overwhelmingly Dublin-centric with very little attention to loads of other incredible bands/producers from different parts of the country.

The general rule seems to be: if you are from outside Dublin, they will look for reasons to deny admission. If you are Dublin based, then they will look for things to waiver.

…new Irish music? Some of these acts have been going a few years and have appeared at numerous HWCH festivals. Give some other new acts a chance!

indeed, I have put in for this festival a couple of times didn’t get a reply even! also the funds come from the arts council, but some bands pay to play. I think these lot are just on a handy number.
new bands me arse! most bands have played many years in succession. all looking after the mates buzz. many muso’s see through these people for what they are. exploitation.

You’re right what you’re thinking. I read the headline, didn’t bother reading the article, and went straight to leaving a comment. It seems to be standard practise for more most of the commenters on this site, why should I be any different?

The majority of “working class heroes” tend to come from the middles classes. Sad but true.

I still have the cd from year one that was free in hot press