How loud do you play?

Pardon? Oh, sorry - how loud do you want it? The Atlantic Soul Messengers want their audiences to get up and dance to their music, and that requires a certain volume. But we always aim to play at a level appropriate to the venue and the occasion, at a volume with which the majority of the audience will be happy.

How much do you charge?

ASM have ten members of the band to be paid and equipment and travel costs to be considered. But we can be reasonable and flexible. Speak to Nigel on 01748 824700, give him the details of what you looking for, twist his arm, tell him a sob story, and you might be pleasantly surprised.

What does the band provide?

The Atlantic Soul Messengers provide everything for a full evening's musical entertainment. Pete, our sound engineer, has a computerised selection of some 8,000 songs which can be programmed for use as background or dinner music, or as a disco.

For the band's sets, each instrument is separately miked or directly input into a 24 channel mixing desk and amplified through a 4 kilowatt sound system. Full band and disco lights come as part of the package.

What does the band need the client to provide?

A minimum performance area of 7m x 3m, preferably a stage. A safe supply of electricity terminating on or near the stage area.

We don't need backstage bowls of non-blue M&Ms, but we do need to eat, especially as we often arrive to set up well before a function begins and leave some time after it's finished. So please include us in any catering arrangements you make. We're happy to eat in a separate room from the guests. A bottle of champagne each would do nicely, but free soft drinks would be acceptable.

We'll need to change clothes before going on stage and are fairly confident that your guests will not enjoy us (apart from Heidi) doing it in front of them. So a secure changing room, large enough for ten people would be great.

We'll need easy access to the venue, so, if appropriate, car parking spaces for a minimum of 3 vehicles should be made available.

Why is there only one Monopolies Commission?

If you know, please tell us.