FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Nashville, TN – When lighting designer Carter Boggess set out to design a touring rig for rising country artist Vincent Mason, the goal was clear: build a system that could match the emotion, energy, and dynamics of the music – all within the practical realities of touring more intimate venues. With support from Bandit Lites, that vision became a flexible, powerful rig that delivers big looks in compact spaces night after night.
“I found inspiration for the design by working to curate a versatile rig that matches the ebb and flow of Vincent’s music,†said Boggess. “We’re not in large venues right now, and I wanted to create something that could punch for some songs but also be able to create powerful looks for others. This was a challenge, as originally we only had a trailer behind our bus, and not much time for load-in. Working with Bandit, we were able to create something unique. The rig we have now is perfect. It creates emotional looks for songs like Hell is a Dance Floor and Days are Numbered, but punches hard for Damned if I Do and Sink or Swim. This intentionality behind the design matches the band’s energy well and allows for unique looks throughout the show even though we are in compact venues.â€
One standout moment in the show comes during the guitar intro for Damned if I Do, where lighting plays a key role in building anticipation. “There is a long track that builds into the intro, and when Lucas comes in with that guitar riff, the Acme Pixel Lines in the rig delay into an orange variable intensity look that always draws a cheer from the crowd,†Boggess explained.
Behind the scenes, Bandit Lites Client Rep Mark Scherer worked closely with Boggess and the tour to ensure the system remained practical, scalable, and tour-ready as the production evolved. “Bandit has helped me in this role as an LD by always being flexible and willing to work with us on space constraints, budget, and gear selection,†said Boggess. “Mark Scherer has been an incredible asset to our team and has stuck with us through several rig variations. By handling the cable layout, power/data build, and always sending us with adequate spares, we’ve been well taken care of on this tour.â€
For Boggess, the lighting design is always about supporting the artist and the music. “On tour, everything I program is designed to add to the atmosphere created by Vincent and his band. This is not a show where I want lighting to take over or take away from the band. I want the audience to see what they’re hearing in a tasteful way and make the music they’re experiencing extend beyond just what they’re hearing. The wide variety of songs played at the show make programming this show one of my favorites in my career so far. The diversity throughout the night keeps the audience wondering what’s next, and visually, the rig we’ve created accents the band well throughout the entire set.â€
Bandit Lites Client Representative Mark Scherer praised Boggess’ approach to design and collaboration. “Working with Carter has been an absolute pleasure. He has a keen eye for design and implements all aspects of a fixture throughout the show without ever letting lighting be the main focus. I look forward to continuing working with him and watching his career grow.â€
As Vincent Mason continues to grow and connect with audiences across the country, Bandit Lites is proud to support the creative team behind the tour, helping deliver a lighting system that proves great design isn’t about size – it’s about intention, creativity, and collaboration.
