Described as “taking a hearty influence from 60’s soul/pop bands as much as they do the garage punk rock” (Collective Zine) Sydney’s Royal Headache have made a huge impression both locally and abroad in their short two year history.
What was the first band you saw live?
Frenzal Rhomb. Cairns in far nortn Queensland was a boring, boring place. I was in grade 8 and my sister wouldn’t let me go with her because I would be embarrassing to her friends. She came back with stories of “Mosh Pits” and “Crowd Surfing” unfortunately I had to wait 2 years until the next band came through town (Frenzal Rhomb). They played an 18+ show with Six and Out (featuring the Lee brothers of international cricket fame) and then an all ages show which I was so excited for I planned the clothes I would wear the day before the show (this was my first and possibly only chance to meet REAL LIFE PUNKS, there was no way I was messing it up). When I turned up at the door the bouncer said I wouldn’t be allowed in because my jeans were ripped (my first experience with sarcastic jokes). An exchange student from school turned up at the show as well, he had his hair in a Mohawk and showed me how to slam dance like a punk. It was a very educational experience.
What’d you learn from them?
They ran a gambling table onstage, my friend Nic was lucky enough to get plucked from the 30 people strong crowd and won $2 in a game of blackjack. So through him I learned that music pays well and would definitely make for a great career move.
Got any pre-gig rituals?
Post up at the bar and throw hook shots all night.
What do you think the most important issue facing artists in NSW is?
The frequency and consistency of live music venues closing down.
If you weren’t a musician, what do you reckon you’d be doing?
Well I’m not a musician so I guess this question means what am I currently doing? Filling in a questionnaire for Music NSW on my fancy graphic design jobs computer.