NASHVILLE – While it had originally appeared storms would dampen the outdoor festivities in Cumberland Park for members of The Recording Academy, the fickle Tennessee weather ultimately cooperated for Nashville’s 18th Annual Grammy Block Party, where Chris Lisle Lighting Design utilized a lighting package from Bandit Lites.
More details from Bandit (www.BanditLites.com):
Musical performances included two time Grammy-award winner (and Bandit client) Jason Isbell, Kelsea Ballerini, Grammy-nominated gospel singer Jonathan McReynolds, Grammy-nominated pedal steel guitarist Robert Randolph and rock band Diarrhea Planet.
Building off last year’s look, lighting designer Erik Parker used a basic 3-truss design that featured Martin MAC Auras as general stage wash, GRNLite Moving Washes for front wash, Chauvet Rogue Hybrids for beam looks, GRNLite battens for brand lighting, Cuepix WW2 Blinders and Martin Atomic 3000 LED Strobes.
“The weather was crazy, but luckily it held out at the venue for us!” said Parker. “The big challenge we faced was the roof, with a capacity of 500lbs per point and only 9 points total to hang on, we had to be mindful when designing, choosing fixtures and quantities.”
In an effort for that mindfulness, Bandit Project Manager Jimmy Hatten made certain the rig was thoroughly prepped prior to load in.
“The prep was flawless and really helped execute load-in, even with the challenges we faced with weather and the venue. He was always communicative, which is a huge plus for me,” shared Parker before adding, “The tech, Jimmy Murray, rocked it! He got the rig up, was flexible with some last-minute changes I threw his way, made sure it was prepped as much as possible for an overnight rain-storm and had it working 100% first thing day of show (after getting drenched from the weather). I have always been really impressed with his work ethic and great attitude!”
Bandit’s Brent Barrett called it an honor to work on the prestigious event with The Recording Academy, sharing he always looks forward projects associated with Chris Lisle Lighting Design. “Chris Lisle and Erik Parker are always a pleasure to work with on any project. Erik did a great job of designing around the rigging limitations of the venue, where the atmosphere and setting of the event promoted a comfortable interaction among the attendees.”
