Hi,

Does anyone have any information about the "industry showcases" run by JAR records? We received an email inviting us to play, but considering we are an indie band and it seems to involve J Records (Annie Lennox, Alicia Keys), I'm rather dubious about the whole thing.

More info here: www.jarmusicgroup.com/jarshowcases/

I'm suspicious that this is very close to being a scam. All a bit too good to be true... any thoughts?

Hi and welcome Mr Strange.

I clicked on the link and I don`t think there is anything dubious about it, it`s more of a case of do you want to be involved or not really.
All I would advise, is do not spread yourself too thinly over too many companies doing this sort of showcase or you will end up banging your head against a wall.

JAR seem fine, if you like what they do, stick with their ideas, if not don`t.
These events do cost money and bands etc clubbing together do pay for them, there is no free ride.
If you think you are ready and stand a chance, go for it, if uncertain wait.
Unfortunately, music IS a competition, however much we may not like the idea.

Looks straight enough to me - I'd like a few names and greater company information though.

No, nothing wrong with it.
If you are happy with "pay to play" at its fanciest, that is.
However in order to meet the basic requirements you will have already spent a couple of grand minimum and brought your street team , management and radio plugging up to a standard - that we might have heard of the band already.
If you are going to commit to the Pay to Play route., why not try one of the larger ones first ie. Surface Unsigned.
Try and find one near your homebase, as the travelling will soon add up.