Coldplay's Oracle talks about Coldplay's alter-ego band, Pectoralz

More questions answered by The Oracle... (over 1000 questions now answered - submit yours now!)

November 4, 2009 - submitted by Jacob, United States of America

Q. Was Chris Martin ever associated with a band called "The Pectorals"? I was watching "Cash Cab" the other day and there was a question involving Chris and a band called that. Thanks!

The Oracle replies:

How funny that Pectoralz came up as a question on Cash Cab! Ha! Pectoralz was an alter ego boy band project that Coldplay used to have some fun with when they first started. It wasn't serious and they didn't perform any gigs under that name nor was it ever a consideration to be Pectoralz over Coldplay!

November 4, 2009 - submitted by Frank, South Africa

Q. Hey Oracle: You recently answered a question about demo's... What I want to know: if say you're in a band- should you look to play a few gigs before signing to a label? And should one immediately send your demo's to a BIG company like Parlophone, or try a smaller company first? Also,I saw that the "Howling Bells" (Aussie band) got signed to a UK company and had to relocate to the UK... Would one necessarily have to move if one got signed to such a company??? Thank you for your help!!!

The Oracle replies:

Following on from yesterday I would always advise artists to play live as much as possible as not only can you improve performing skills but build a potential fan base. I actually think artists these days should be as pro-active as possible.

I don't think one should necessarily opt for a big or independent label; it may be that you have interest from someone who may turn out to be 'right'. I think it's more important to select the most appropriate label for your band and see if it leads anywhere. Very very few bands get signed per year so it's a tough break to get. Relocation makes sense with regard to an Australian band given the time difference and distance; I would personally advise it though as I can't see how it could work otherwise.

November 4, 2009 - submitted by Kelly, Netherlands

Q. Great Oracle! I have a question that has nothing to do with Coldplay, but I hope you'll answer it anyway(that rhymed). I have to go to the hospital for a blood test, but I'm very very very afraid of needles!!! What should I do? I'd very much like to keep my blood where it belongs, in my body! Thanks!

The Oracle replies:

Blood tests are sometimes very necessary and so it's best to find the most comfortable way of having them for you. My advice is that you ask to lie down whilst they take blood. Maybe you can listen to some music and have a portable music player with you? It's important to distract yourself so think happy thoughts. Try not to focus on what is happening and don't look. Needles aren't pleasant but they are finer than they used to be and so after the initial sting you shouldn't really feel the actual needle.