WHEELS & DEALS: RECORD-MAKING SQUEEZE; BUZZ ON WORLD LEADER PRETEND, CLASSIC CASE, MAXEEN

CHECKIN’ THE MIKE: A few A&R friends recently commented about the lack of “big” rock and pop records currently in the works. Many folks on the record-making side are noting that the shortage of projects is greatly affecting the bottom line for producers and their respective managers. It’s obvious that it’s a buyers market out there for any act looking for a producer to work on their upcoming major or indie release. Some A&R hitters were surprised by the immediate swarm of phone calls they received from producer managers upon the announcement of their artist signing to a label. Some managers are even taking pre-emptive moves by making the calls upon hearing that a label is showcasing an act. Furthermore, many lower-to-midlevel producers are taking on more unsigned projects in the hopes of getting the job in the event the act is signed. So, if you ever dreamed of working with that A-level studio genius, now is the time to call... Meanwhile, what’s the story with New Orleans act World Leader Pretend? The group, who took their name from the R.E.M. song, has prompted several label and publishing folks to fly down to the Big Easy this week. One West Coast major had already flown them in to L.A. for a showcase a couple of weeks ago. Stay tuned as the chase continues... Back on the East side, momentum is building for the Brian Sirgutz/Peter Lewit-repped Classic Case, so you may want to check out their upcoming gig in NYC (see buzz/gigs). The band’s EP has been garnering a lot of indie and major-label fans alike. Their rigorous tour schedule included dates with Puddle of Mudd, and they’re currently out with Orgy, so don’t sleep, ’cause we have a funny feeling about this one... Finally, more A&R hitters were seen at the recent Maxeen show at the Troubadour this week. The band’s full-length release on indie SideOneDummy has been garnering a lot of weasel attention of late. The trio is currently on tour with Matchbook Romance and The Matches. Get on it before this one gets nutty... BUZZ/GIGS: Maxeen on Thurs., May 13, at the Glasshouse in beautiful Pomona, CA... Classic Case on Fri., May 14, at Irving Plaza in N.Y.... Paige on Thursday, May 20, at the Viper Room in L.A... BUZZIN’: Cold... Hit me up: [email protected]