So then, what’s the band name and what do you ‘do’ in the band?
The band is called Mercury Theatre, named after Orson Welles’ radio broadcasts that began back in the ’30s. I mainly play lead guitar in the band, but sometimes I might just make a lot of noise. There’s always moments where you can just go crazy with your instrument, and other times when I feel the song requires a little bit of ‘space’, I might not play anything at all; sometimes less is best.
What do you think people will say you sound like?
When it comes to comparisons we’ve heard them all. From Muse, Karnivool, The Cure, right through to Neil Young! It’s hard to define your own music without sounding too pretentious, but put a gun to my head and I’ll say alternative rock. Interesting chords, melodic hooks, sometimes a little ambient, other times heavily riff orientated, and often just squealing feedback. Have a listen and judge for yourself.
What do you love about making music?
Writing new material can be a really daunting experience. Trying to vocalise the sound in your head and demonstrate what you’re trying to get out can be tricky, but it’s always a lot of fun. The other major aspect is performing live, which is hands down the most fun you can have without fireworks and a donkey. There’s something magical about two minute sound checks, breaking guitar strings, blowing valves, and 2am load outs – I wouldn’t change it for anything in the world.
What do you hate about the music industry?
I haven’t had much experience with the music scene anywhere other than Melbourne, but from playing countless gigs, releasing our EP, and constantly trying to promote ourselves, it’s hard to define where a lot of the problems lay. I’ve always felt the hardest thing is to prove yourself within a 30 minute set. So many venues aren’t willing to give gigs to bands because they haven’t heard of them before, or they don’t have enough fans on Facebook. The music scene isn’t the worst, but it could be a lot better.
If you could travel back in time and show one of your musical heroes your stuff, who would it be and why?
This is a tricky one, there’s so many answers! I would have to say Rowland S. Howard. Easily one of Australia’s greatest musicians. He wasn’t finished with his musical ambitions when he died, it’s obvious he had so much more to do. I would hold his opinion very high.
What can a punter expect from your live show?
The experience of four talented musicians who love doing what they do. A great night out with some guaranteed entertainment, and probably a beer or two after the show. Don’t hesitate to have a chat with us after the show.
When are you playing live next and with who?
Saturday July 14 at the Noise Bar. We will be supported by friends William Blaxland, Cal Thoms’ & Yoshitoro. All having shared the stage with us before, but never together. With Cal Thoms’ youthful charm, Yoshitoro’s smooth tunes, Blaxland’s complexity and The Mercury Theatre’s dynamic you are surely in for a treat. $10 Entry. Doors 8:30pm
