Could rapper come to Albany?

Studio 146 could be the host of three big acts this summer, including American rapper Flo Rider, if nightclub owner Malcolm Pages gets his way.

Mr Pages said he had offered a deal to the American rapper and singer, while British India and Philadelphia Grand Jury were almost certain to come to town

later this year.

Mr Pages said other country towns had Triple J touring acts perform and there was no reason Albany should be any different.

He said several bands were coming to Perth for summer festivals and he was hoping Albany could be host to some sideline shows.

British India is playing at the One Movement for Music Festival in October and Philadelphia Grand Jury are touring Perth and the South-West in December.

Mr Pages is in serious negotiations with both bands.

He said he had seen some big name acts come to town in the past decade.

The Earl of Spencer has hosted the Waifs and the Velvet Janes, while in 2005 the White Star gave the stage to John Butler and Shihad.

Well-known acts Grinspoon, Birds of Tokyo, Karnivool and Killing Heidi have also performed in Albany.

Mr Pages said before the internet, downloading music and iTunes, bands

would tour for a lot less.

Now Triple J bands are requesting at least $12,000 to $15,000 up front.

Mr Pages said Birds of Tokyo had requested $20,000 to play in 2008.

He said bands wanted to come to Albany but venues did not want to put up the money.

Mr Pages had been approached by other Triple J acts to play at Studio 146, but they were not suited to the venue, he said.

“People come to the nightclub to hear dance music,” he said.

It is hoped the three acts would play on Friday nights from around 9pm to 11pm and at a cost of about $27.

To secure a ticket to Flo Rider the realistic price would be about $40.