If the band can play a repeated 8 count chord progression from which they can easily go into the top of the tune, it gives you a phrase to call to, but if you need to slow down, or fix something, you have that option too -- then you can just get yourself back on the phrase. Other than the fact that I flubbed the first call of the dance, I am pretty happy with the one in this video of me with Atlantic Crossing. It wasn't a planned thing (and planning is definitely a good idea the first time you do it. In particular, planning how you will cue the band in, whether you want them to actually do potatoes, or just use your first call (WITH your NEIGHbor BALance NOW, with some good punch) as the potatoes.)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lq1tKJb7z-QAt it's best, it gives you a chance to do two walk thrus if needed, without the dancers feeling like you're doing too much teaching. The first time, you can be teaching completely off the phrase, or the band can sneak in halfway through the first time. Then the second time, you move to being more on the phrase. Once you're on the phrase, you have effectively agreed with the band on a tempo and can stick with that as you move into the dance, so there's really not a need for actual potatoes. As long as you have your sign worked out with the band (beating the last 4 beats with your hand, calling with some punch for the first call, patting the top of your head (to indicate that you're coming up on the top of the dance) or whatever.) Please note, that if you don't have things worked out with the band, it can be pretty messy and awkward. Rather similar to the first time I tried to do one -- the band just started playing a bit under the walk through and I had no clue of how to cue them in!