From the Southern sector of Sydney, six boys use guitars, drums, a banjo, a keyboard, a glockenspiel, a tambourine, harmonicas, a woodblock, bells, bongos and all types of other instruments to create their unique style of folky dance music. Alexi Collins answers our questions.
What was the first band you saw live?
Five of us started playing music together when we were in year eight at school, and it would not have been long after we started that we went and saw Switchfoot play at the Roundhouse, that was one of the first bands we saw live. We also used to go watch our friends Planet of the Stereos live a lot, too.
What’d you learn from them?
A lot. Particularly, Planet of the Stereos. They’ve really taught us a lot about music, the music scene, and helped us out in so many different ways.
Got any pre-gig rituals?
Five Red Bulls and one V. Sometimes before the bigger shows we’ll have a big intimate group cuddle.
What do you think the most important issue affecting artists in NSW is?
I think the independent live music scene in NSW isn’t as strong as it is in other areas of Australia. It might just be a cultural thing, because there are incredibly good artists in Sydney. I guess the best way to create hype these days is to start with a recording and use all the internet opportunities to get your music out there. People don’t really come to see bands live, unless they know some of the the tunes.
If you weren’t a musician, what do you reckon you’d be doing?
Well, we’re actually studying at the moment, and none of us are studying music. I think whatever we end up doing, we’ll want to keep playing music together, because its just a fun excuse to hang out with your best mates.