If I'm not down in front, I'm off to stage left or right, picking up subtle cues, or helping swap guitars or pulling sweaty jackets off without disturbing their guitar cables that run up their backs.
It always amazes me how all the musicians know where I am. Because of the lights on the trees above the audience, usually the band can't see past the first row, especially if the Leco spot lights are on, but somehow we make eye contact.
The non-verbal, mime-only communication is especially magical with band lead singer Pip Lucas. Pip is able to convey most things to me with nothing more than a quick finger gesture. Sometimes, it's the in-ear mix he wants changed, or he wants a bar stool, or a towel, or wants to drop a song.
In most cases the audience would not notice our invisible communication.
Depending on the venue, I may have to push kids back from the giant sub speakers, on which, we have two LED lights. These are easily aimed and a bump from the audience could knock them off target, so it's my job to re-aim them to center stage.
Beyond stage roadie, my role with AFT is also Business Manager, Road Manager, Merchandising guy, Booking Agent and Personal Manager - I'm not sure which one I love more. I'm glad I don't have to choose.
