I Am The Agent consists of main songwriter; Michael Gale (Guitar, Vocals), brothers Daniel Lambert (Guitar) and John Lambert (Drums), and Joseph Bourke (Bass). Each taking influences from numerous alternative genres and styles – including 90’s grunge/noise (Nirvana, Sonic Youth, Nine Inch Nails), post-hardcore (At The Drive-In, mewithoutYou, Thrice) as well as taking core songwriting principles from indie and pop influences (Kevin Devine, Bright Eyes, Manchester Orchestra).
What was the first band you saw live?
The first band I saw live was Strung Out, at some place in Manly. This was probably in like 2002/2003. I think they had just released or were about to release their ‘Live in a Dive’ CD. They had local supports, they hung out afterward and signed things for people, they were really awesome.
What’d you learn from them?
How to dance to a punk band. How to be loud. How to sound good. How to get people to shows. How to please fans.
Got any pre-gig rituals?
After we’ve watched all the bands we’re playing with we usually drink a whole lot of energy drinks, jump around, do stretches, write a setlist, and then freak out.
What do you think the most important issue affecting artists in NSW is today?
For upstart bands -> knowing which gigs to play and which places to avoid.
Promoters that do seemingly little promotion. It puts a lot of pressure on infant bands. and does little to support creativity – because the bands that sell the most tickets to random events are the bands that already have an established genre or ‘scene’.
Thankfully we’ve been able to avoid getting stuck with large amounts of unpaid-for tickets.
If you weren’t a musician, what do you reckon you’d be doing?
Most musicians I know have to juggle multiple things to support their decisions to make music.
A lot of them are doing arts degrees. I’m currently doing my Masters in Teaching- its all about having backup plans (or playing in cover bands/DJing).