In 1997, I set up my first design agency and named it FBD, The Federal Bureau of Design. I grew the business to a team of 6 over a few years.
During this time, the dot com boom, we worked with many corporate clients, start-ups and most enjoyably, with bands. To name but a few, Teenage Fanclub, The Silencers, Sean Dickson of The Soupdragons, KT Tunstall and Scotland’s greatest export, The Proclaimers
I waved…
A friend of mine introduced me to the band’s manager around 1999. We got chatting… Craig & Charlie, after a hiatus of around 7 years, were about to set up their own label and release their 4th studio album Persevere. I was asked to join the team and take care of design, photography, the new website and even promo videos.
Excited and raring to go, we set out photographing Craig & Charlie for the new album. We came up with the idea of shooting them from Leith looking towards Edinburgh which was the opposite view as seen on the Sunshine on Leith album looking towards Leith…
In 2001 the album is released to great acclaim especially in Canada and USA as they embarked on a tour with Barenaked Ladies to promote the album.
The next few years got busy, Glastonbury Festival, many world tours and The Best Of… album which I shot and designed also.
To date, I have worked with Craig, Charlie and their manager for over 20 years. I have been loyal to them and they have stuck with me too. It has been such a privilege to see the industry from the inside, be backstage at such HUGE and awesome events such as T in the Park, LIVE 8, Glastonbury and even to shoot their gig at Edinburgh Castle.
Of course there are many MANY stories to relay but probably best kept for close friends and band members to share over a wee dram…
I write this short entry on Waveback Project to show that trust, loyalty, hard work and a willingness to get stuck in can pay off, often with life changing moments and rewards, be they financial or experiential. I’ve loved working with these guys and look forward to what may come next.
