Ah, R S Studios, it's been a little while.
R S is an independently run rehearsal studio based a stones throw from Temple Meads station and motion nightclub. I rehearsed here for around a year and a half, twice a week every week with my old band. It is run by Rich and Steve (hence the R and the S, duh) who both play in bands in and around Bristol. Rich is the tall, thin and ear-ringed one, Steve is the scarier looking overall donning guy. Both are as nice as punch and as Bristol as you are going to get.
Being a bunch of amateur wimps, my band mates and I were always missing a lead here, a string there, cymbals, stands and anything else that is considered as integral for a successful band practise. Despite this, the two owners would source bits and pieces from around the studio and lend us stuff free of charge. Trust me, this is rare! There's also a nice community spirit around the place, as you'll bump into others that practise on the same evenings as you. Expect a little abuse from the proprietors too, but this is all in jest and part of the fun.
There's a little room with a TV and DVD player, and also a vending machine that sells cans of beer at a super cheap £1 a go, so bring some change if you're not the designated band driver. The only downside is that the place could do with a bit of a spruce up and some of the equipment is flagging in old age, but this place is perfect for any band that is just starting out or those that like an authentic experience! It's also dirt cheap to rent a room for the evening, with prices ranging from 7-8 quid an hour, depending on the room you decide to go for. Although we never went with it, there are also recording and mastering services available that would be perfect for that first demo or getting some tracks up on your Myspace.
Recommended! read more