SWIMSUIT ISSUE Out Now !!
Sunshine Coast based Indy Rocker’s Swimsuit Issue have had a pretty good 2021 so far, something few people let alone bands can claim. They have released four singles as well as their debut album ‘Burn Off The Buzz’ and with a string of shows booked until the end of the year including the ‘Bed By Nine Festival’ and the the ‘Halloween Festival’ at Lefty’s Music Hall its safe to say ‘Swimsuit Issue’ is a name your going to be hearing a lot of in the future. We had the chance to fire some questions to the band, on music, recording and signing to new label Bueno Bueno Sounds.
Swimsuit Issue, this year has seen you release four singles already, which got good radio backing from the independent stations did this support surprise you?
We weren't surprised by the community radio as that is what they are all about. We really hoped for a little Triple J support but TBH we were blown away that we were played on Short Fast Loud and Roots n all Twice as well as Double J, ABC radio and MMM. Our album has been getting added to a lot of college radio stations at the moment which is also blowing us away!
In July you released your highly anticipated debut album called ‘Burn Of The Buzz’ what has been the feedback been like? How is the album being received by your fans?
The feedback has been fantastic from fans. We were worried that people just wouldn't get it with us covering multiple genres on this record but it is quite the opposite. We have had some amazing reviews also including an 8.7 out of 10 from Backseat Mafia
You did the album is two parts, the eclectic half was tracked live at Yama Nui on the Sunshine Coast with Steve Summers and Paulie B (George, Ziggy Alberts, Bobby Alu) and the other half was self produced by the band. Did this those pose any challenges given this isn’t the conventional method for recording?
We originally went into Yama Nui to record the album in 3 days all live tracking too! We were stoked with it as it captured our sound as it was at that time. It was easy for us as we had rehearsed so much to get tight.. We had to wait a couple of months to get the mixes finished as the studio was booked out. So in that time we were still jamming and writing and just as we got the mixes back we no longer felt that half the album represented our sound because we had a bunch of new songs which we wrote together. So we decided to demo the new songs at home creating beds for the session. We then went into a studio and Rhys and I produced and engineered the session over 1 full day. I then did vocals at home and had my very talented friend Tyrone Bain mix. That's the reason some of the songs sound very lofi and some are super produced. The Lofi ones were live tracked and the polished ones were multitracked.
Your album was the first official release for newly established Australian Indie music label Bueno Bueno Sounds, that’s a huge honour that must make you very proud?
Oh very proud! were so stoked with how well its going too! it feels amazing to set the tone for the label! We are already working on a follow up release as well as a b side release for all the tracks which didn’t make the record. I believe that the label will be putting out a split 7 or 10 inch vinyl release and a compilations on vinyl too.
Being it is their debut drop does this add an extra layer of pressure for the album to succeed?
No not really, it's a real family vibe with the label and crew. It's all about getting the music out there and supporting artist more than selling records or streams
You have a range of tour dates booked that start in August with ‘Bed By Nine’ at The Zoo in Brisbane with a line-up that includes five other bands who are you excited to see or play with?
Oh yes! We are really looking forward to that show! Bad Neighbor is a band I stream all the time whilst working so I'm really keen to see them and share the stage! Well worth checking them out
October 30th sees you participate in Noche De Brujas, the Halloween Festival being staged at Lefty’s Music Hall are you excited to hit the stage with some of Queensland’s most talented and newest Indie Rockers?
This would have to be the biggest show of the year right? haha every single artist on the line up is a fave of ours! so we will be there from start to finish to check out every set.. Its going to be a fun day/night and getting to play onstage in a costume will be sick! Tom is going to wear a dress I think
Are you glad to be getting back to hitting the road and performing in front of a real crowds?
Absolutely! we live for it! It is the biggest rush! we would love to make our way down the east coast once everything settles down.
What are the best and worst parts of being on a multi artist bill? Do egos ever get in the way? Or is it just one big party?
The best part would be that it usually is one big party! Everyone is usually up and dancing to support each other. I haven't experienced egos on a local level but I once opened up for Avril Lavigne and she was an absolute horror of a person. After 2 weeks of shows during the day of the last show I asked her manager if she would sign some posters for us and get a photo and he came back to say she won't do it!
2020 was a year full of uncertainty and change and for some the year came as a blessing for some a curse. How do you rate your 2020?
2020 for us was a blessing! without the lockdown we never would have had the chance to write and record an album!
Is there anyone you would like to perform or collab with in the future?
I really wanted to write with Kaito from the band Wetlands and now that's going to happen as she just joined Swimsuit Issue! I would love to collab or tour with Beach House, Cigarettes after Sex, The Oogars or Willie Nelson
Where was your first gig? Was it a success or flop?
Greaser Bar in Fortitude Valley Brisbane with Action Slacks and Fingerless. It was a total success because we gained our first couple of loyal fans from that show
Who in your crew or team deserves a shout out but never gets one? And what is they do that keeps your world turning?
Well Tom and Rhys both do a lot and I do all the management type stuff. Rhys does a lot behind the scenes which really helps take the load off
What your favourite song to perform from your back catalogue and why?
It has to be ‘Ocean Haze’ as its such a slow build and then ends with an epic guitar solo which always goes down amazing. Also ‘Hit It With You' as we now have Kaito to do the Dorah Jacson parts.
What's next for Swimsuit Issue? What can we expect in 2022 and beyond?
Definitely continuous releases, some vinyl and merch and some more East Coast shows in NSW and VIC and QLD
Thank you for taking the time to answer some questions for Music Festivals Australia
Interview by Michelle Symes
August 2021
Shiralee and Daniel’s ‘Desire’
Shiralee Coleman and Daniel Tonik have teamed up to create ‘DESIRE’ , a that song focuses on that one person that we all have in our mind and with music that matches that build-up, the song really reflects the emotion and the anticipation that you feel in this situation. ‘Desire’ is a hybrid melodic house x dance track, and with it’s cross over of genres the song is doing big things on the charts and explains the almost ‘overnight’ popularity for ‘Desire’. MFA had the pleasure to talk to the dynamic duo about ‘Desire’, working together and the ‘Facon Magazine Launch’ recently in the Hunter Valley were they introduced the new track to the world.
Thank you for taking the time to answer some questions for Music Festivals Australia in what I can only imagine has been a crazy time with the release of your new song ‘Desire’ on the Friday the 16th.
Shiralee and Daniel firstly congratulations on ‘Desire’ it’s awesome and given its almost immediate rise in the charts its safe to say it’s being well received by the dance community. Have you been surprised by the response?
Shiralee & Daniel: Thank you so much!
We have been overwhelmed by the response! In our first day of release
- #3 in the Australian iTunes Dance Chart
- #14 in the Australian iTunes Main Chart
- #38 in the ARIA Club Chart
- #5 in Hong Kong's iTunes Dance Chart
- #200 in the United Kingdom's iTunes Dance
This has been amazing result, and to think this is only the beginning!
Shiralee you became a fan of Daniel’s work after hearing his song Retrospect on The Party Life Show, did you contact his people then or did this all blossom in other ways?
Shiralee: Yes - after I first heard of Daniel Tonik when I was listening to @thepartyliferadioshow where his song ‘Retrospect’ was featured as ‘Track of the Week.’ Falling in love instantly with both his sound and the lyrics, I knew I had to hear more. I contacted DJ Fuel the host of the show to ask about the song, and who wrote it. I put Daniel’s track into my Mixtape 2 and in ‘Retrospect’ it blossomed from there! Daniel and I then connected on Instagram and we met soon after and this was the start of the collaboration for ‘Desire.’ Since DJing together on Seadeck, and with our strong music connection, we started working on ‘Desire’ in December 2020.
DJ Fuel, Sabro and Dimitri have done remixes of ‘Desire’ and there’s also a VIP mix due out in August, were you fans of their work before this collaboration?
Shiralee: BIG fan of their music, and that’s why we have them on for the remixes. DJ Fuel and Sabro did some incredible remixes for my first single Can You Feel It, so I knew they would send it for ‘Desire’ as well. We had some great coverage last time with their remixes being played around the world on radio.
The VIP mix of Desire is a club banger from Daniel and I, which we played at King Street for the The Party Life 450 event, which was a total vibe! Daniel’s remix from my last track was on Dimitri Vegas and Like Mike’s radio show, which was also really exciting for us.
Daniel: I think I came across both Fuel & Sabro’s music at the same time, they invited me to do a remix of their ‘York & 23rd’ projects tune “Do You Think About Me?” - from there we’ve built a very healthy & musically strong connection with one another; I knew I was surrounding myself with some really talented people from the get go. I’m especially excited for the VIP mix as it is a nod to the underground rave scene in Sydney. We’ve also invited fellow underground dj/producer DIMITRI, from Sydney to deliver his take on “Desire”. All round excited for the whole project!
‘Desire’ is the fourth release from the newest name in recording Pumping Records, the label now having back-to-back successes. This has to be something your proud of especially given your connection to the label?
Shiralee: Very special connection, George Petridis aka DJ Fuel and I met a long time ago (I wont say how long) haha but I have always followed his DJ career and admire how hard working and passionate he has forever been about music. When it came to the time to follow my dream, he gave me the gentle push in the right direction when I asked for advice on how to start. To see his record label come to life, and l at the same time learning and growing through my own experience. Its been an exciting time, seeing Pumping Records launch, and be a part of that. I’m all for independent labels really making their mark
Daniel: I’m extremely proud of the growth of Pumping Records. I’ve been involved with 3 of the 4 releases: 2 remixes and now “Desire”. It’s great to be apart of a family that aim to help each other succeed.
This song was used at the launch of Facon Magazine, was that an exciting moment to be a part of?
Shiralee: There’s only a few special nights in your life that you will always remember, and for me, this is definitely one. To be featured on the cover of the Façon Australia Femme Issue where they celebrate successful strong women, it was such an honour to be on that cover and the article about my rise to becoming a DJ. To then celebrate it in style with VAMP by Lisa McGuigan Wines in the Hunter Valley was incredible! What a location and what a night! The fashion, the wine, and to also premiere DESIRE was a dream. I couldn’t have asked for a better night to play the song for the first time, with my family, friends and the readers of Façon.
Daniel: This was very new for me, but it was such an amazing experience. I was just honoured to be sharing Shiralee’s special night (celebrating her front cover appearance) with the premiere of Desire. I was extremely nervous to see people’s reaction to hearing it for the first time; seeing everyone’s response… I was able to walk off the stage knowing we had created something special.
The video for the promo of the song, and your recent competition, was made at the Crystalbrook Kingsley and it makes for a stunning yet dramatic backdrop for ‘Desire’ how did this association come about?
Shiralee: There is a bit of a story behind it. My cover for Facon was supposed to happen in March last year in 2020. The unexpected arrival of Covid prevented us from doing the shoot we envisioned and also from the event we really wanted, where we could launch it and I also DJ. I was originally interviewed by Claudia Liedenberg who worked for Facon at the time, but then she moved and started working at Crystalbrook Riley in Cairns. We always kept in touch and I went up to Cairns to do a photo shoot, DJ and stay at their stunning hotel recently in May. They were also opening a new location at Crystalbrook Kinglsey so Claudia connected me to the team here in Newcastle where I am now a resident DJ. I absolutely love playing there it’s a stunning rooftop location. They teamed up with us for the launch of Desire as they love supporting local talent and artists and are such a wonderful hotel group to work with.
Do you have more projects together in the works? Especially given the ‘overnight’ success ‘Desire’ has produced?
Shiralee: There is always something in the works ;)
Daniel: When you put a bunch of creatives together in a room, just know that there’s always something cooking!
Will you tour together when the ability arises?
Shiralee: Of course. Daniel and I would love to tour and bring Desire to every dancefloor In Australia once this lockdown is over. Given our ties with Ibiza, Mykonos and Marbella our eyes are on some international locations too.
Daniel: We had plans to launch ‘Desire’ for the European summer. It’s unfortunate that our residencies in Europe have been on hold, but we’ve still been receiving a huge amount of support overseas. MYK Boat Club in Mykonos have been using ‘Desire’ in their promotional videos, it’s good that we’ve still been able to maintain the relationship… something to look forward to.
Collaborations expected and not so expected are happening a lot these days, and with great success too as your song brilliantly demonstrated. Who would you each love to work with both locally and internationally in the future?
Shiralee: Our collaboration story has been a brilliant one, as I have loved working with Daniel on this track. Pumping Records has really led the way with how to roll it out too so I’m very blessed with such an incredible team. Singer and Songwriter from Sydney Sammi Constantine has added her magic to ‘Desire’ with an incredibly emotive vocal, that truly captures the feeling and intensity behind this story, so the way it all happened was such a great journey to do together. At the moment, I love working with Australian artists and given the pressures of not performing as we would like to with the restrictions, I would like to do more work with local talent.
Daniel: It's been a dream to work alongside Shiralee, our planning and creative sessions are an absolute breeze. The ideas just bounce so well and the flow is incredible, something I look for when working with others. It would be an absolute dream of mine to work with artists like Camelphat, Christoph & ARTBAT, hopefully one day - as Shiralee has always says to me “just keep manifesting”.
Given the state of the world with lack of touring and ability to promote, do you think the 25% minimum quota of Australian music on our radio stations is a fair number given the ever-expanding talent pool we have in this country? Would you like to see that number increased or even a dedicated Aussie station?
Shiralee: I think given the amount of talent we have in Australia that number should be 50% of plays, minimum!
Daniel: I agree with Shiralee. I’ve been releasing music for a number of years now and I’ve witnessed first hand just how hard it is to get placements on radio. I believe Australian artists should be given priority.
The music scene in Newcastle where Shiralee is from, and ‘The Area’ where Daniel is from, is amazing and diverse. Daniel has produced talent from the underground for many years, who are you a fan of? and who should we be watching out for in the future?
Shiralee: I grew up listening to some of the biggest DJs play in the same clubs where I get to play now! The clubs may have changed names over the years but the heart and soul of the Newcastle music scene is cemented in those walls.
Daniel: The Area! What a place, Western Sydney! The west has a special place in my heart, the community is super supportive and everyone always hypes up anyone doing well from “The Area” - keep an eye out for “The Area Collective”, my little imprint which includes a collection of talented West Syd artists.
What's next up for you both? What can we look forward too?
Shiralee: A music video for Desire when we can film it. And hopefully a tour!
Daniel: More music, always! Also hanging to throw a big party to celebrate all the little wins we’ve had in a very unforgiving climate, it’s all about the silver linings.
Photos by : Zuela Photography
Interview by Michelle Symes July 2021
Photo Credit Jaacobcreative
HP BOYZ , Hot Property
The HP Boyz are the hottest property in the music scene in Australia at the moment and their domination looks set to continue with a packed schedule for the remainder of 2021. With not only their own tour of capital cities Brisbane, Sydney, Darwin and Melbourne in August/September, they are also one of the major draw cards for two Lunar Electric Festivals in September and the very first Promiseland Festival on the Gold Coast over the October long weekend. We caught up with the ONIT, YJ and MWAYS to ask them some questions about the music, their success, Promiseland and their lifelong friendship.
Interview with HP Boyz for Music Festivals Australia
Hp Boyz are a perfect example of an independent group being able to achieve mainstream success. With 1 platinum and 5 gold singles already achieved in a two-year time frame, what do you attribute to your rapid rise and success?
ONIT: Although we still have a long way to go on our journey, our first 2 years have been a massive success, and I think first it’s our passion for the music and our craft, and then, our unique look and sound. We were different to everyone else, and I think that’s what made us stand out.
YJ: Hard work etc. We sacrificed our time to get to where we have in those 2 years, and it paid off and still to this day but we just try and keep the ball rolling.
Your Australian tour has four dates left, Brisbane, Darwin, Sydney and Melbourne. Are you glad to be getting back to performing in front of a real crowds?
MWAYS: We love performing in front of crowds, it’s one thing to know people are listening to our music but it’s another thing for them to come to our shows and really show love. Performing and watching the crowd rap our songs really gives us confidence to keep pushing to do more music and more shows.
ONIT: It’s always an honor to be able to do shows in these big venues, and see people sing our songs. It’s always a humbling experience.
YJ: Hundred percent we are, we appreciate every opportunity that comes to us. To be able to perform in front of our crowds, just being up on the stage gives us energy and hype to perform for everyone.
You have received massive support from major radio stations with your music in the A1 rotation, did this comes as a surprise? Not only the support but the first time you heard one of your songs on popular radio?
MWAYS: At first it was a massive surprise, being heard on the radio and on playlists on Spotify and iTunes, but if anything it just pushes us to do more. We’re always trying to be better and always trying to top what we’ve already done
ONIT: To be honest it still spins me out that they play our music on the radio, let alone how regularly they do. Since we dropped BluePrint, anything we drop is guaranteed to be aired on radio that week which is great for us and our fans. Thanks to everyone plugging us though.
YJ: We’re just happy and grateful to be on those platforms and for the support from everyone who helped us get to where we are. The first time I heard our songs on the radio was crazy to me. I felt over the moon and I couldn’t believe it. I’m just proud of us boys for making it on radio stations and playlists because it pushes us to do more.
With so many of your shows this year happening in Queensland are there any plans for the HP Boyz to relocate from Melbourne?
MWAYS: No not at this stage, I don’t really plan on living anywhere else but Melbourne at the moment, Melbourne is home and always will be.
ONIT: At the moment it all depends on Covid. We won’t be relocating but if anything is to jeopardize us making it to these shows then I’m sure we will definitely look at relocating just for a short time.
YJ: Of course, with everything that’s been happening across Melbourne with Covid. We’d love to do more shows in our own city though.
Were you surprised by the response to your New Zealand Tour announcement, with the 7 shows completely selling out in less than ten minutes? You must have a solid following over in NZ
MWAYS: Hundred percent I was surprised, firstly because at the time I’ve never left Australia before, so to go to another country and sell out shows was crazy. NZ show a lot of love to the boys and I, and yes, we have a solid following in NZ. Having a Samoan background really contributes a lot, so we have a lot of our own people supporting us.
ONIT: Yeah, that one definitely got all of us by surprise, I was shocked. I guess at the time we had just dropped Engineers and then Bad N Bouj, a short time after that, so the hype was pretty real at the time, and then we announced our NZ tour, they all just went nuts. Shoutout to NZ we’ll be back soon.
YJ: Shout out to NZ, mad love up there. We couldn’t believe that happen for our first tour there, they showed mad love and the support was crazy. We didn’t even know we had that much of a fan base coming from NZ but it is something to remember.
You have done some guest appearances on stage with other artists, do you want to do collab work in the future or is this just a when you feel like it a surprise for fans? Is there anyone particularly you would like to perform or collab with?
MWAYS: Of course, I would love to collab with other people, but just at the moment we’re still trying to focus on us, HP Boyz. I think there’s a right time and place to do collabs, so not sure when, but its defiantly a thought that’s been in my mind.
ONIT: At this stage we haven’t released any content for about 8 months. So right now, were just focusing on us, and how were going to make a return and shake this scene up. Once we do that and we get the wheels going again, it’s inevitable a collaboration or two will follow.
HP Boyz headlined the Hip-Hop stage at march’s Lunar Electric and your set to do the same with the guys In September for another two events, is it safe to say you enjoyed your festival experience with the Lunar team?
MWAYS: Yes, we will be performing at 2 Lunar events this year, hundred percent we loved working with them, we had a great time in GC and looking forward to the next one
ONIT: For sure Lunar was a vibe and a half. I guess they just had to have us back, hopefully we can repay their faith in us with another solid performance.
YJ: Yeah, hundred percent we enjoyed the Lunar festival, it was hectic seeing all the party goers having a good time. It was a mad experience in GC but we will change things up for our next set just to bring in that extra hype
That brings us to Promiseland, this is the very first Promiseland Festival, a Reggae/Alternative/Hip-Hop festival that is set to fill a much-needed void. Do you think that is the reason for this event selling its ticket releases so quickly?
MWAYS: It’s just a good mix of artist who are all good at what they do. It’s good to have a mix of genres and I think that’s one of the reasons why it sold so fast.
ONIT: Promiseland killed it with their lineup/rollout. I think Promiseland will be the festival of the year.
YJ: We’re just blessed to be at the first Promiseland Festival . I don’t think there’s any reason, I think everyone just wants to have a good time especially when everyone’s been on lock down, they would wanna go to an event to remember.
Are you exited for Promiseland seeing as it’s a new type of audience and atmosphere than you are used to at a festival event? Are you excited to be able to share your music with people who may not be familiar with HP Boyz?
MWAYS: I’m hundred percent excited to be performing at Promiseland, I think this is a more suitable audience for us, being a Samoan, we enjoy reggae music, and we know that we got a lot of support from the Polynesian community
ONIT: 100% we are excited. Promiseland is the main performance I’m looking forward to this year. I can’t wait for October 2nd.
YJ: I’m excited to see the crowd, I think I know what type of crowd it’ll be but I’m just keen to perform for everyone. Just being on that stage and we just wanna give everyone a good time especially those that haven’t heard our music. It’s always good to have new people who haven’t heard of us. If they don’t like it then they don’t but for those who are interested that’s just helping us grow our fan base but always down to rock with the crowd no matter what.
Promiseland is set to deliver an ‘immersive experience’ what can the punters expect?
MWAYS: It’s a sold out festival for a reason, I’m pretty sure everyone will have a good time!
Promiseland sees a solid collection of talent from Australia and New Zealand Who are you excited to see play from the extensive line-up of locals and neighbours?
MWAYS: Growing up we listened to reggae a lot, it’s just music that brings people together, so I’m excited to see Nesian Mystik and Ardijah perform, I grew up in a house where there was a party every week, and my parents loved listening to those artists, so it’ll be good to see them live.
YJ: I’m just keen to perform with all the people who are on the line-up. For myself I like to listen to any kind of music, so as long as I’m having a good time and good vibes it doesn’t matter who’s performing, I’m still keen to party.
What are the best and worst parts of being on a multi artist bill? Do egos ever get in the way or does it just add to the party?
MWAYS: Nah I think it just adds to the party, everyone there is there to have a good time, so just perform to the fullest, don’t worry about anyone else.
Small intimate club style gigs and big park/stadium events are obviously quite different in the energy and audiences, which is easier to engage great crowd participation? Which do you prefer? Clubs or Stadiums?
MWAYS: I don’t really prefer one over the other, they both have their pros and cons, but I do think it’s easier to engage bigger crowds ‘cause everyone just feeds off each other. The vibes just easy to catch when your performing in front big crowds.
YJ: I prefer both but I would go with stadium just because of the energy and the more people the louder it is. Clubs are no different but imagine a whole room full of people rapping word for word it’ll go off. It doesn’t really matter, just the energy that we like to feed off the crowd.
What your favourite song to perform from your back catalogue?
MWAYS: I think my favorite song to perform is Loyalty, I just think everyone can relate in their own way to the song. When people start rapping our words with passion it just makes it more fun being on the stage.
YJ: Engineers and Loyalty. I don’t really have a favorite yet but I know those songs go off!
Where was your first gig? Was it a success or flop?
MWAYS: Our first gig was through Fortay and Kid Kearve which was at Chelsea Heights here in Melbourne, we only had one song at the time but all our boys came and supported us, even hopped on stage with us too. It was a vibe that night so I wouldn’t say it flopped.
Your bio says you started off as childhood friends that went onto become a brotherhood. How do you define the difference between friends and brothers? When did you notice the shift in attitudes and the relationship between you all?
MWAYS: Well obviously we all grew up together, at different parts of my life to. I guess when we just don’t judge each other for our wrongs, instead we help each other to be better, it doesn’t matter what it might be and because we’ve made so many memories with each other and remember those good times, why not create more good times.
YJ: We grew up together, family ties and some we met along the way but we’re all hundred with each other like straight brothers, we have our ups and down’s but loyalty kept us together. We trust each other, we don't have any room for hate or any negative energy. We just try and keep it positive most of the time.
In your journey as a performer/group/musician have you changed? Is life much different for you from when you started out?
MWAYS: It’s not all that different, maybe financially its different and all the travelling and going places is different too, but for lifestyle, I still see my family and still hang with the boys when I can, but the music keeps me busy, so that’s the main thing.
ONIT: My life has changed immensely and so have I as a person and the people around me. I’ve learnt a lot about myself along the way, and also others. I’m constantly learning, and I feel like I’m still finding myself. So, I think in 10 years time when I look back at our music, you’ll be able to see how we were feeling at the time, and what we were going through as a group, and individuals. That’s the beauty of music and what we do. I can’t wait to look back once I’m finished with music, and explain to my kid’s certain songs or lyrics, what they meant to us/me.
YJ: At the start I was shy but didn't care at the same time. As time went by, being in the game I’ve learnt things on the way, I’ve gained a-lot of knowledge. I just take it as it comes, life's a bit different from before like flying to places and touring but that’s because I wanted to get somewhere
2020 was a year full of uncertainty and change. For some the year came as a blessing, for some a curse. How do you rate your 2020?
MWAYS: 2020 was a crazy year for us, obviously Covid played a massive part in that year and we also released an ep that year, but we still got to travel interstate and travel overseas and perform in NZ at Bay of Dreams, so even though there was a lot of speed bumps in 2020, we still continued to make music and blessed to even perform
ONIT: 2020 was a massive learning curve for me, but despite Covid it was just another year. A year full of highs, lows, successes, failures, and lessons! Just gotta keep stepping.
YJ: It was alright we could have done more that year but due to Covid we missed out on opportunities that would of helped us along the way but we still managed to work around it. I would say it was good because we still dropped songs and we managed to get things done.
Who in your crew or team deserves a shout out but never gets one? And what is they do that keeps your world turning?
MWAYS: Shoutout to my manager HPHOODLUM, he does a lot of the behind the scenes stuff, he’s always on the phone, talking to people that can better us in any way we can, he puts a lot of his time into us, so I’m grateful for him as a manager but not only that, he’s one of the boys, he knows how to be a good brother, when I need someone for advice, he’s always there.
YJ: Our beat makers they make nothing but fire. Their talented beat makers, they help us out a lot, HP Area Beatz and the bro Olmate Daz
What's next for the HP Boyz? What can we expect for the rest of 2021 and beyond?
MWAYS: New music and more bangers!!!
YJ: More songs, More shows and nothing less. We just try focus on what we need to do to keep us relevant and keep our family’s straight. yktv
Thanks for taking time out to talk to MFA/MKA
July 2021
Interview by Michelle Symes
Interview with Generik
Generik ….. anything but
The countdown is on for Reminisce Carnivale , a top 50 countdown of greatest dance music records as voted by the general public. The spectacular will take place in a massive Big Top at Flemmington Racecoure Melbourne with a star studded line up of musicians that will not only perform but also take part in the hosting duties during the countdown. Joining such big names as The Presets and John Course will be GENERIK, the globetrotting party starter that has performed on some of the biggest stages here and abroad. MFA caught up with GENERIK to ask him some questions about Reminisce, the Big Top and who is getting his vote.
Voting open to the public in July and not closing until September, everyone has plenty of time to not only vote but also to secure their tickets for this unique multi- sensory production
Reminisce Carnivale is set deliver a true carnival experience with big colour, performers, artists and rides is this your first time being involved in such a multi-sensory event?
I’ve been lucky enough to play pretty much every festival in Australia, but this is going to be my first festival since Festival x 2019 so I’m quite excited to play to people again!
This edition of Reminisce is set to take place under a circus tent of epic proportions, have you ever performed in a ‘Big Top’ before?
I’ve played many different types of stages over the years and nothing beats a big top! Reminds me of Creamfields and The Big Day Out Boiler Room. Time to get sweaty!
Voting for the top 50 is open to the general public, What songs would you like to see in the top 50?
Its so hard to pick favourites but a few favs are Green Velvet - La La Land, Bob Sinclar - World Hold On and Mousse T - Horny, I still regularly play these in my sets!
Will you be voting?
Of course! Currently going through the process now!
What are the best and worst parts of being on a multi artist bill? Do egos ever get in the way?
There are no worst parts unless an artist is a dick backstage but it’s usually all love and extremely fun! Its great meeting and hanging with incredibly talented artists and it’s how I’ve made some lifelong friends!
You are described as a Globetrotter and Chief Party Starter; how does this label sit with you? Is it an accurate assessment of Generik?
Well the last couple of years I haven’t globetrotted lol but I think its fair and funny. I do enjoy a party and am usually first on the dance floor. I love having fun and the fact my job is playing my songs and other peoples to drunk people for a living is amazing.
You returned to Australia in 2020, was that already part of your plans or did Covid force you home?
I came home at the end of 2019 for Festival X and my plan was staying here in Australia. Flying to and from Vegas for shows and spending the Aussie winter in Ibiza but unfortunately that never happened. I’m just thankful I’m healthy, I get to spend more time with my family and friends and that’s all you can really ask for. Plenty of time to go overseas clubbing and touring again.
You have performed in some of the biggest clubs in the world New York’s Marques, Miami’s LIV and some of the biggest and most prestigious international festivals, Creamfields, Festival X and Lollapalooza, a testament to your popularity and star power. Do you pinch yourself some days or was this what you always expected you as an artist could achieve?
Yeah its pretty wild, I would never of thought in my wildest dreams from my first set at ONESIXONE in Melbourne playing indie music that I’d be doing this for a job. I feel very lucky to be able to do this for a job, it’s a lot of hard work that not everyone sees from the outside but I wouldn’t change it for a minute!
Small intimate club style gigs and big stadium events are obviously vastly different in the energy and audiences, which is easier to engage great crowd participation? Which do you prefer? Clubs or Stadiums?
I think stadium style festival shows are probably easier to gain participation because everyone is there for the whole day, excited and just ready to party! Having said that, I love playing club shows because you can literally connect with every single person on the dance floor.
What has been your favourite event to perform at or person you have performed with? what’s been the highlight in your career so far personally? And why?
Playing main stage at Creamfields was pretty mind blowing, I really enjoyed my residencies in Vegas & Ibiza. Its too hard to nail down one.
You have joined forces with and shared the stage with such massive names as Duke Dumont and Calvin Harris. Is there anyone you would still like to perform or collab with in the future?
I’m just a really big fan of music so there a million DJ’s I’d love to share a stage with, but I really want to play with Michael Bibi at one of the famous after hours gigs he does. The King of the Afters.
What your favourite song to perform from Generik’s back catalogue?
Probably my latest song Need U with Fources. Claptone did an edit for me and its fire!
Where was your first gig? Was it a success or flop?
It was at ONESIXONE on a Thursday night, it was a massive success cause I got asked to come back and be a resident. I was playing indie music, Bloc Party, The Presets, David Bowie, The Rolling Stones.
In your journey as a musician have you changed? Is life much different for you from when you started out?
Not much has changed, my taste in music has developed but I’m still the same happy smiling kid that first fell in love with dance music
Who in your crew or team deserves a shout out but never gets one? And what is they do that keeps your world turning?
My management / booking crew cause they allow me to be me and develop, learn and grow and keep me off the streets lol
What is next for Generik? What can we expect in the second half of 2021 and beyond?
I’ve got a bunch of music finished so release that and my record label You Do You has some monster releases coming!
Thank you for taking the time to answer some questions for Music Festivals Australia
Interview by Michelle Symes July 2021
Mobin and the Synthony
SYNTHONY is a Dance Music / Orchestra extravaganza that includes a 60+ piece Orchestra with vocalists, DJs and laser show. After two sell out performances in Melbourne and Brisbane, two further shows have been added for: Perth - September 3 & Sydney - October 8. Mobin Master joins the likes of Miss Connie (Sneaky Sound System), Ilan Kidron (The Potbelleez), Ella Monnery, Andy Van (Madison Avenue /Vicious Records) and Mark Dynamix to bring you a unique experience for the eyes and ears. Mobin took time out to answer some questions for MFA about Synthony, the challenges of an Orchestra show and his label Safari Records.
Mobin Master doing his thing for Synthony
Synthony Melbourne and Synthony Brisbane were massive successes and Sydney and Perth look like they will follow suit. You must be excited by the following this series is receiving, especially with such a unique show that you are delivering to sold out audiences around the country?
I am so grateful to be a part of such a huge production team, talented orchestra members, song-writers, singers and musicians who make up this show. I am more than excited to host the incoming debut shows in Sydney and Perth.
How does performing with an Orchestra to deliver a modern musical stage extravaganza compare to your usual shows?
There is no comparison. When performing with the energy of so many souls on stage who are all passionate and excited and to deliver such a special show to the eager audience is amazing. There’s so much on stage to see and hear, it’s on a whole new level, unparalleled to other DJ sets or live sets.
How did you score the hosting gig for Synthony?
Erika Amore, the pioneer of the first show, teamed up with Duco Events to perform many shows around NZ, prior to testing the water in Australia. Erika contacted me via email and we met up to discuss hosting. They actually head hunted me, I thought through NZ recommendations. I was then told they’d been asking many Australians in the industry, who’d recommended myself to be the host of the show. I was and am still honored. The first show for Australia was a huge success, in Brisbane 2019.
Mobin Master Twitter
Has this new concept of a show come with any challenges or hurdles that you weren’t expecting?
No so much hurdles, but the sheer challenge of hosting such a huge show was underestimated by me. Of course, I am a compete geek and have to do something at 200% of what’s expected. So the preparation was huge: introducing acts, understanding the flow of the show, the tracklisting and order, backup plans for any possible errors, playing the Keytar live, engaging with the audience at the right times, rehearsal days… the list goes on. But it’s so rewarding, it’s totally worth it.
With Synthony you are working with Miss Connie (Sneaky Sound System), Ilan Kidron (The Potbelleez), Emily Williams, Greg Gould and Andy Van (Vicious Records). How has working with some of Australia’s biggest names been? Is it a learning curve or more of a fun camaraderie event?
I know most of these guys and it’s a lot of fun to hang out again. As it’s their first tour, I was happy to provide any assistance to those who needed a heads-up on how it all works.
How do you find working with a conductor such as the internationally acclaimed Sarah-Grace Williams and director, Rachael Carroll, something modern artists rarely get to experience?
They are down-to-earth incredible talents, who are so easy to work with and simply a pleasure. It’s my first time working with Sarah-Grace and I really didn’t know what to expect, but we really get on so well and seem to always be on the same page. We discuss as a whole team how we can improve and progress the show to make it even better than what it already is!
Are you glad to be getting back to performing in front of real people and audiences?
Sure thing. This is a passion project and I will take these particular memories to the grave with me. These are truly special engagements with people, especially right now.
Is any special preparation needed to take the show from the west coast, Perth in September to the east coast, Sydney in October? It must be a huge logistical operation especially in these times?
Duco are doing a fantastic job in coordinating the tour and ensuring that the “show must go on” where possible with safety precautions and protocols in-line with health advice. The artists and the staff travelling can be a risk, but we manage. I sometimes help out with ad-hoc medical advice too, which can assist in these shaky times!
You own your own record label Safari Music, is having your own label been something you have always aspired to?
I never planned to have a label, however, Show Me Love (one of the biggest dance re-makes) was initially rejected by most of the labels I sent it to. I then decided that the only way to release it was independently and for no-one to dictate the direction of my music, so I set up my own label. Safari Records’ second release was ‘Show Me Love,’ the first successful massive cover of the Robin S classic, the rest was then history.
Do you prefer to do the behind-the-scenes side of music or that of being the artist? As I would imagine both come with their pros and cons?
I really enjoy producing in my studio and releasing music regularly. The battles of being an artist and even to this day “fighting for it” can be tiresome. So I am now very comfortable in producing what I love and not worrying about the rest. The measure of success to me, is helping other artists out and making music for happiness.
Is there anywhere you dream of performing at? Or anyone you would like to perform, collaborate or produce that’s on your bucket list?
I aspire to make great music and get people dancing. Interestingly, I don’t have a wish-list or bucket-list as such. I’m not sure if it’s a good or a bad thing. I have often landed collabs with artists I looked up to, which is an honor and something I never expect. I have recent collaborations and remixes with Richard Grey, Supafly and house music pioneer Jesse Saunders.
In your journey as a musician, have you changed? Is life much different for you from when you started out?
It certainly has, with a great new Label manager, my direction is back to where it started in house music. When I started, I didn’t understand my direction, but now I have a defined sound and know how my tunes will sound, still in a fun way.
What's next for you? What can we expect in the second half of 2021 and beyond?
Of course, the Synthony tours in Perth and Sydney with the associated after-parties. Some Mobin Master releases including a Synthony version of ‘Show Me Love’ on Safari Music. Expect many releases by my alias with Kane Rayner called ‘Rubber People.’
Interview by Michelle Symes
Sgt Slick embarks into ' The Night '
Sgt Slick is now rated as the 6th largest NuDisco artist the world’s largest DJ focused music site, Beatport and he has made his return to Vicious to follow up his acclaimed club cut: ‘The Night the Lights Went Out’ and his massive and still unstoppable cross over cover of ABBA’s ‘Gimme! Gimme! Gimme!’ with a dance remake of Cyndi Lauper’s hit single from 1983 ‘All Through the Night’ .
MFA caught up with the man himself on the eve of the ‘ The Night' ‘ release to talk Mouldy Oldies, Cyndi Lauper and the challenges of Music remixing.
The Night is released tomorrow are you excited to see how a new generation receives this originally slow pop ballad that you have reworked into a pack the dance floor and sing along song?
Always excited to drop a new release! And yes it’s definitely interesting to see how something works when you take it out of it’s original lane and put in into a clubbier, more anthemic lane.
Originally a folk track by Jules Shear, this is the third time this song has been delivered to the masses and each time it resonates with the current audience. Why do you think it still appeals especially to the now crowd?
Well I just learnt something , I always thought Cyndi’s was the original! The track has a great hook and that can just carry over to any generation really. That’s one thing about the 80s.. the hooks were just dynamite!
You have a skill for finding gold in the past and bringing it back to life in a fresh modern fashion for a new generation to embrace is this something that you find easy or is creating that fresh spin challenging?
I’m always looking for records that might not have been massive hits or were slightly overlooked when they were released… and those that have since been forgotten. I’ll often throw together simple edits of these kinds of tunes for when I’m DJ’ing, and if something strikes a chord on the dancefloor I might decide to take it to the next level and do a full production or reconstruction.
What made you decide to remake this Cyndi Lauper song? Not one of her more famously known songs like True Colours or Girls Just Wanna Have Fun?
Despite being a ballad it has a super electronic arrangement underneath… the arpeggios and analogue pads are just awesome, and that’s what first drew me to the record.
Have you gotten any feedback from the Iconic 80’s Pop Star?
Not yet, but I hope she digs it!
Do you sometimes get stuck on which one of the ‘mouldy Oldies’ to remake as let’s face there is some great music that could be reworked to suit the new generations that wouldn’t even remember the original? How do you narrow it down to which song to play with next?
I spend a lot of time in the studio messing with older records… making edits and bootlegs to play out. So I have dozens of them circulating amongst DJs around the world at any given time. The feedback I get from these is essential to the whole process of me deciding what might be worthy of an official release, and what just stays as a DJ only type thing.
Participation in digitally streamed events during the Covid/Lockdown period was the way to connect with fans and share music and it seems we can expect more of it in the future, what was that like compared to playing in front of a live audience? Was different preparation needed?
I did loads of them and I was always very prepared. Probably more so than doing a live set. When people are sitting at home watching they tend to be a bit more critical and analyze what you are doing in a more detailed way… lots of chin stroking , All good though as I like the feedback and appreciate people with a passion for dance music.
With some states opening up, are you glad to be getting back to performing in front of a real crowds?
Yes 100% We almost had it there and then it was cruelly ripped away from us . I can’t complain though, I’ve been able to do some amazing shows in the first half of the year and travelled regularly… while our European and American DJ friends have been stuck at home all this time.
You have done some great collaboration work with such big names as Kaskade and Robbie Rivera, Is there anyone you would like to perform or collab with in the future?
There’s no one on my radar. I just like to do my thing, see who I cross paths with and work with people I like and who share the same passion and work ethic that I have.
What has been your favourite event to perform at or person you have shared the stage with? What’s been the highlight in your career so far personally? And why?
Playing new years eve on the steps of the Sydney Opera House will always be hard to beat as far as spectacle and atmosphere goes.
Where was your first gig? Was it a success or flop?
It was a school disco a long long time ago haha! I literally had no idea what I was doing… I remember I was using my Dad’s old skool stereo system headphones. At one point a teacher came to tell me I was doing a great job and pounded her hand down on to the turntable sending the needle flying off the record that was playing. That might’ve gotten a few boos!
What's next for you? What can we expect for the second half of 2021 and beyond?
Lots more tunes… I’m always working 2 to 3 releases ahead of what is currently out. And I’ve been doing a lot of remixes in the past few months so they’ll all gradually make their way out over the rest of the year.
Interview by Michelle Symes
June 2021
The MASH MACHINE Is Coming!
Not a lot has changed in the world since our interview last October, Covid is still creating dramas especially across Victoria, the live music industry is still operating on a question mark basis and life definitely hasn’t returned to normal. The one thing that is changing is the beautiful boys from MASHD N Kutcher are putting their electronic equipment into storage and will bring you their first live tour with classic instruments. Matt and Adam are rolling out the Drumkit and Grand Piano to deliver The MASH MACHINE Show, a musical journey from past to present, covering all genres.
MFA interrupted rehearsals to have a quick chat with Matt and Adam from MASHD N KUTCHER about their up and coming first Live Show Tour and their June job on Triple J as resident DJs.
MASHD N KUTCHER, MASH MACHINE will see you touring the East Coast of Australia in July and August. Are you glad to be getting back to performing in front of a real crowd?
It’s certainly very exciting. It’s one thing to chat to fans online and interact in comments sections but nothing is quite like the real reactions of people in front of you. This tour actually is the very first time we’ve put on a full production live stage show so it’s both exciting and challenging at the same time, but we wouldn’t have it any other way.
In a change for you two, this is a live tour with conventional instruments, what sort of problems does this present both in logistics and actually performing? Compared your usual equipment?
It doesn’t present any problems at all, interestingly enough we both began our journeys as instrumental musicians, with Adam on drums and myself on piano from very young ages, so fortunately we’re well equipped and prepared for it! Adam I’m sure will go to great lengths to make sure that the drum kit he chooses is amazing and I’m calling on all backline companies to wheel out a grand piano.
Are you excited to be returning to your roots with your classically trained instruments?
100%. It’s been a long time coming! Both of us had somewhat diverted to DJ land in the past few years but along with returning to our instruments of course comes tightening up our chops so much practice ahead and if you jump on our socials you’ll see we are in the studio as we speak.
The Mash Machine show is set to deliver an intricate light show, special guest vocalists and multiple stage setups anything else fans should start looking forward to?
Definitely a few surprises on the night, and I think given that it’s totally live we’ll be delivering a slightly different performance in every state which is exciting. Another lovely aspect is that we get to have our friends and close supporters at the shows themselves, which makes it special.
Mash Machine is a journey show covering different eras and styles of music. How did this concept for the show come about?
We both enjoy listening to and performing a multitude of different genres, so it was only fitting to reflect this in the performances. Adam is the metal head, I’m generally more hip hop inclined so you’ll see both make an appearance!
Where was your first gig together? Was it a success or flop?
Our very first gig together I believe was in Brisbane, we weren’t sure at that stage if we should remain anonymous or show our real faces, so we wore material masks. it was hot sweaty and hard to breathe in haha. I’m sure the music was ok though.
Your GET ON THE BEERS song which has also been adopted as Australia’s unofficial anthem, made it to number #12 in the Australia day institution that is TRIPLE J’s Hottest 100. Where were you guys when you found out where you had placed? Were you having the traditional Australia Day/Hottest 100 BBQ with family and friends?
We were celebrating with a pool party at Adam’s place and definitely made sure the neighborhood knew about it!
Is that what got you the job of Resident DJs for the month of June on Triple J?
No idea ask, them haha
The first of your shows was last Saturday, how did it go? Any challenges you weren’t expecting? is Radio something you would like to do more of in the future?
It was great. We were really happy with it and the feedback was awesome
Who in your crew or team deserves a shout out but never gets one? And what is they do that keeps your world turning?
Probably our mums. They do get them though haha but they could always do with some more praise, after all they raised us!
MASH MACHINE AUSTRALIAN TOUR DATES:
Friday 2nd July – The Triffid, BRISBANE
Saturday 17th July – Oxford Art Factory, SYDNEY
Friday 6th August – The Corner Hotel, MELBOURNE
Tickets for MASH MACHINE are on sale now BUY HERE!!
Interview by Michelle Symes
June 2021
BONKA are on the 'CHASE' with VASSY
‘Chase’ the new track that combines the power of Vassy and Bonka and is set for release on the 20th of May and if the Spotify preview is anything to go by its going to be huge. Vassy having previously worked with David Guetta and Showtek on ‘Bad’ and Tiesto and KSHMR on ‘Secrets’ is no beginner when it comes to international collabs or hits, then you combine that with the talented local boys, Bonka and a sure fire hit is bound to be produced. BONKA sat down with us at MFA to talk about the new song, Time Square and performing live again.
Vassy is such a huge name in the world of EDM collabs , working previously with David Guetta and Tiesto. How did the collaboration between You and Vassy come about?
It was actually a little random, obviously we had heard of Vassy as we have always been fans of her records. So when the opportunity presented itself in the form of an email expressing interesting in working on a project together, we jumped at the chance. And about a month later with a fair bit of back and forth, Chase was finished!
‘Chase’ is already being played by DJ’s around the world including Austin Kramer’s ‘Tomorrowland – One World Radio’ this must make you not only proud but also excited with what this could mean for you as a band on the world stage?
The support which chase has garnered already is truly staggering and having some of the biggest names in the dance music industry and music industry as a whole supporting the record is truly humbling. We are just thrilled that people are enjoying the record as much as we enjoyed bring it to life with Vassy.
Having a Billboard in Time Square is a pretty big deal and comes with massive exposure, who came up with the idea and how did you make it happen?
To be honest, that was all thanks to the team in the U.S. As much as we would like to say we had a hand in it, honestly it was all orchestrated by them! Having said that wow were we surprised, it was such a surprise to see, we weren’t sure if it was real or not! We thought someone might have been joking but the tags on our socials in the form of photos and videos kept rolling in.
The ‘Chase’ billboards in Time Square, New York City
Collabs seem to be the trend at the moment. Is there anyone on your wish list you would still like to perform or collab with in the future?
There is a long list of vocalists and producers we would love to work with moving forward and while it’s nice to dream, we firmly believe it’s on us, if we keep putting out records we are proud of and they are received well by all our of fans, those dream “collabs” will become a reality for us.
Where was your first gig? Was it a success or flop?
First gig we played together was actually a house party, in the suburbs of west Brisbane. In terms of success, we had a ball and everyone else who attended seemed to be having a wild night, so as far as a first gig goes, Yeah that was a success!
In your journey as a group/musician have you changed? Is life much different for you from when you started out?
We have been doing this for about ten years now, life is so different in some ways, but very much the same in others. It is different in the sense we are older and wiser (hopefully), but in terms of our team, and our passion for performing the best shows we can and producing the best music we can, that part is very much the same
Who in your crew or team deserves a shout out but never gets one? And what is they do that keeps your world turning?
The unsung heroes of BONKA without a doubt are our managers / the directors of Catch Management, Benny & Mitch. Without these guys we wouldn’t be where we are today, and have always played a massive role in all things BONKA. There is a lot I can say about these guys which speaks to how important they are to BONKA, But the only thing I will say is that they are our team but they are also our family and together we will keep all things BONKA moving forward and hopefully upward into the future.
Small intimate pub style gigs and big stadium events are obviously very different in the energy and audiences, which is easier to engage great crowd participation? Which do you prefer? Clubs or Stadiums?
Both present vastly different environments to perform in, in terms of energy and the actual performance you cannot beat a packed out club in terms of vibe. But those big stages / stadiums are just so surreal to perform on, especially in front of that many people. Both have special places in our hearts as we are just so fortunate to perform at all!
Are you glad to be getting back to performing in front of a real crowds?
We actually didn’t play any virtual sets as we decided at the start of the pandemic that we would use the time to work on music and our brand (content, future planning etc.) But YES! we are so pumped about being able to perform in front of crowds again, we are very fortunate here in Australia as some other parts of the world are yet to open up. And while it was frustrating that we had to wait 9 months to perform again, we count ourselves lucky that we are able to do what we love in the midst of a pandemic.
Which of your songs is your favorite to perform?
We love playing all of our songs, whether they be past, present and future releases. There is something magical about playing YOUR music to a crowd and them really taking it in and giving you all their energy back. But if I had to pick our most recent release Overdrive (Revealed Recordings) and Chase with Vassy are our favorites currently.
2020 was a year full of uncertainty and change. For some the year came as a blessing, for some a curse. How do you rate your 2020?
It was both a great and terrible year at the same time. Personally we learned a lot of things about ourselves and grew a lot as people with the extra time which we had as we did not have to tour non-stop. So that being the positive, the negative side of that trade off was obviously we didn’t get to do something we love and are passionate about. Having said that, it has in a way renewed our love for touring and we have a new found appreciation for what we do and how fortunate we are to play in front of amazing crowds in different places all over the world.
What's next for you? What can we expect in 2021 and beyond?
We can’t give away too much but to keep it simple, MUSIC! For the rest of 2021 we will be pushing out as much music as we can, which will hopefully land on some big labels and get some great support like we have had on our latest record “Chase” with VASSY.
Interview by Michelle Symes
May 2021
We Are One with Andy Van and Cassie Van from Super Disco Club
Thank you for taking the time to answer some questions for Music Festivals Australia in what I’m sure is an extremely busy week with the release of your first original song ‘We Are One’, which has been described as ‘instantly attention grabbing’. Are you nervous for the release and how your song will be received?
Not so much nervous but very excited to have some new music coming out as we’ve been working on this project for a while.
‘We Are One’ already has two remixes ready to drop. The first by Sgt Slick and the second from Birdee. Will these also be released this week? What are you anticipating the reaction to these will be from the club scene?
Yes they are both also released this week. Sgt Slick has delivered a hot remix that will go off in clubs and Birdee’s is a little more underground disco style.
Your music has been labelled a ‘Step away from the current trend of cut and paste’ reworks, that must be very satisfying feedback? Do you think this a reflection of your experience as both producer and artist?
We try and be as creative as we can and make music that we love so it’s always nice to hear that sort of feedback. I’m lucky that I DJ and own a record label also so I’m always in touch with what’s going on musically.
Andy, you co-founded Vicious Recordings with John Course many moons ago, with your forte being the discovery of future anthems and anthem makers and future superstars. Who has been among your favourites to have worked with over the years?
I discovered Avicii when he was first starting out as we did a show in Sweden for his manager. I knew as soon as I met him and heard his music he was destined for big things, so we signed him to Vicious for 8 singles. Another favourite is James Ash who we’ve worked with for years (including the start of Rogue Traders) and of course Sgt Slick is a legend.
Cassie, You also have an extensive background in performing. From dancing for some of the best, to singing on a host of ‘Vandalism’ songs and you were even in an all-girl disco cover band before forming SUPER DISCO CLUB, safe to say not only music but disco especially has always been something that made you groove?
Oh yes I have loved disco since I first played my mum’s Boney M album over and over on her record player. It just makes me want to smile from ear to ear, put my most sequined outfit on and get up and dance till I can’t feel my feet any longer.
Andy, you have played at such iconic events such as CREAMFIELDS, LOVE PARADE and MINISTRY OF SOUND (UK) , That’s quite an impressive resume. What has been your favourite event to perform at or person you have performed with? What’s been the highlight in your career so far personally? And why?
The Love parade at Leeds in the UK playing to 300,000 people was pretty epic and is always at the top of my list. We also did a lot of the Party in the Park festivals in the UK with Kylie Minogue during the Madison Avenue days to huge crowds and I always loved DJing in Ibiza especially at Manumission.
Is there anyone you would like to perform or collab with?
Nile Rogers would be amazing. His knowledge of Disco and his musical talent is awe inspiring.
In your journey as a performer/dj/producer have you changed? Is life much different for you from when you started out?
We are definitely more seasoned performers now, ha ha! And we know what we love and what works for us. Life is definitely a lot more busy for us now as we have two small children also.
2020 was a year full of uncertainty and change and for some the year came as a blessing for some a curse. How do you rate your 2020?
It was certainly different that’s for sure right!! In so many ways it was a blessing as we got to slow down and spend more quality time with our kids. And we got more time to write in the studio which is always a plus. But it was hard not seeing our friends and extended family for so long.
Are you glad to be getting back to performing in front of a real crowds?
Oh yes it’s amazing and we appreciate it even more now. I think everyone has that extra appreciation of just being out there and living life and being free to do the things we love.
What's next for you? What can we expect in 2021 and beyond?
We’ve got three singles being released in the next few months. Our second single has a fun collab with a famous singer from the 80s . We’ll being doing a lot of great activities on our TIK TOK and Instagram accounts also including some live DJ sets so tune in to those @superdiscoclub
Interview by Michelle Symes May 2021
Andrew McManus , the man behind the Under Southern Stars Tour
Andrew McManus,
the man behind the Under Southern Stars Tour.
You are responsible for bringing some of the music industry’s biggest names to Australia, Whitney Houston, Kiss and Motley Crue just to name a few, safe to say the events of 2020 must have created issues never considered before. How did you first hear about the restrictions and what your initial reaction to having to postpone Under the Southern Stars last year due to Covid-19?
I was actually in London at ILMC, as a collective, no one understood how severe the impact was going to be. Whilst gut wrenching and time consuming to move everything back, re book venues etc, It’s out of our control and a forced decision set upon us that we had to take in our stride.
Was it difficult to realign all the act’s and their calendars for the rescheduled days or were tentative dates discussed back in March when the first the lockdown took place?
It was relatively easy considering the UK and US are far worse off than us, the likelihood of playing in either country in the near future is increasing unlikely, so thankfully thigs fell into place quite easily.
Cheap Trick has been announced as the third headline act, replacing Live, how did this come about as their such a different style of music and have a generation gap to the other bands headlining?
I’ve always been a fan and having toured them some years ago with Def Leppard, I knew they wouldn’t let me down. They always deliver, so that was the first point, the other part of the equation was securing an artists who understood the parameters of Quarantine, something that was not as easy as it sounds. In the new world of Covid, there is no real rules of style, age gaps – It’s about delivering a great show that will put smiles on music hungry patrons.
What has been the reaction of ticket holders to the Cheap Trick announcement?
Very positive, they have their own very loyal following and will definitely add to the overall attraction.
Are their plans to bring Live to Australia at a later date to satisfy their huge following here?
Definitely keen to, when the time suits and fits for the band to come to Australia we have our hand up to continue the relationship.
Unfortunately, some cities have had their show cancelled for example Perth, is this due to the boarder restrictions in place or were there other factors involved?
Yes, it was a hard decision to drop Perth but the recent closures to most if not all other States by WA Premier and what appears as a less liberal (Not as in party) approach to closures, we decided to refund all Perth sales and remain mostly east coast (and Adelaide) – take our medicine early, add another Qld date and look at safety first.
You have had to swap out some venues, is this due to the laws for gathering sizes and to accommodate pre-sold tickets?
No, Hordern is under maintenance in May, Wollongong council wouldn’t play ball on Stuart Park as a hire, hence moving to WIN Ent Centre
What has been the hardest Covid-19 rule/regulation to plan for or accommodate in organizing the UTSS events besides the basic social distancing?
Quarantine and then lobbying to secure Commissioner for Border Control approval for entry, very proud of our team securing this exemption.
You started off in the promotion world with the World Wrestling All-Stars and moved into music with McManus Entertainment. Would you ever consider going back to wrestling shows given the continued popularity of the genre and the minimal restrictions sport events seem to encounter compared to music events?
No, not really. Without a TV partner who can create a weekly story, a stand-alone wrestling company is just not destined for long term success.
Does being the first live on-stage International tour add an extra layer of pressure, given that the eyes of the world are watching? What sort of impact would you like UTSS to have on international touring here and around the world?
Absolutely, all the knockers are out n force….we say ‘bring it on’.
What do ticket holders need to know for Under the Southern Stars 2021?
There will be certain State by State driven restrictions, Covid managed rules, adhere to cueing and social distancing guidelines and simply have a great time and enjoy the 1st International festivals to grace foreign soil.
interview by Michelle Symes
14 FEBRUARY 2021
PARTY time with HIGHUP
MFA talk to HIGHUP about his latest release ‘PARTY’ with Snoop Dogg and Aryue, his success in Asia, Touring and what he has planned for 2021.
2020 was a year full of uncertainty and change and for some the year came as a blessing for some a curse. How do you rate your 2020?
2020 was a blessing for me in a way. I already had a jam-packed music catalogue ready to launch, so it really helped me push through that year with the music I had signed last year.
Participation in digitally streamed events during the Covid/Lockdown period was the way to connect with fans and share music, what was that like compared to playing in front of a live audience? Was different preparation needed?
Yeah that was just weird, to go from playing in front of crowds, to in a studio with a green screen and trying to give the same energy. As a live show it’s very difficult but still was good to get on the decks and play regardless.
You have started the year off touring with Tory Candy, are you glad to be getting back to performing in front of a real crowds?
Yes it’s going to be a great year to start with. I'm looking forward to coming and running amuck with Troy Candy! Can not wait!
After releasing the track ‘Okay Okay,‘ you toured with Bombs Away was that a fun tour to be a part of ?
Love the boys, always having a blast with them and doing cray things! Can’t wait to be back on stage with them.
Who would you like to see live? Who’s on your bucket list?
I would love to see the Deadmau5 new show it looks so insane!!!
Your brand-new track ‘Party’ is a collaboration with Aryue and Snoop Dogg and it has become a massive hit already with over 650k streams in its first week, you must be excited by the attention the song has been receiving?
I'm so overwhelmed it’s been a great start to see everything working and lining up, let’s see how the next few weeks go. Now that the traction is picking up it will get a great number of streams all round :)
Snoop Dogg, the man himself did you have to pinch yourself when Sony approached you about working with him?
Sony came to me with these awesome vocals by Snoop Dogg. I accepted the challenge and teamed up with ‘Top 100 DJ’ Aryue to make this production.
The support of radio stations like the Radio Metro 105.7 on the Gold Coast that have you on high rotation must be very humbling?
Love my Radio Metro Fam shout out to Vikki and Bilsy, they have been with me since Day 1.
Proving music transcends continents you have a huge following in Japan and feature #20 on their I-Tunes Hard Charts did that come as a surprise?
What really surprised me was going number #1 in Taiwan and the support that followed!
What has been your favorite event to perform at or person you have performed with? What’s been the highlight in your career so far? And why?
Highlight of my career (there has been so many) after blood sweat and tears, I think the best feeling is playing music that you’ve put so much time into, to play in front of a crowd, now you can not beat that feeling! So many Artists will say the same thing it’s just a real moment!
You have received support from the biggest names in the industry. Hardwell, Dimitri & Like Mike just to name a couple, is there anyone you would like to perform or collab with in the future?
I would definitely love to collab with DV&LM and also Timmy Trumpet!
Where was your first gig? Was it a success or a flop?
First gig was Sarclub on the Gold Coast....wow that was a party!!
In your journey as a performer/group/musician have you changed? Is life much different for you from when you started out?
Yes 100% just more focused and it’s not just a hobby anymore when I didn't know what I wanted, but then coming back to DJ and starting Highup was the best thing I have done and I wouldn’t change that for anything!
Who in your crew or team deserves a shout out but never gets one? And what is they do that keeps your world turning?
Love to shout out my amazing agency ‘Jump Touring’ and my epic management Akos and David!
What's next for you? What can we expect in 2021 and beyond?
So much is going on for 2021, next one is my release on ‘Musical Freedom’ Tiësto’s label and maybe a collab with Mashd N Kutcher in there too ;)
11 FEBRUARY 2021
World meet.....UNDERDOG444
World meet……UNDERDOG444 January 2021
Thank you for taking the time to answer some questions for Music Festivals Australia, it’s a great way to kick off 2021 supporting more up and coming Australian artists and our home-grown industry.
Who is UNDERDOG444? Can you give us a bit of your back story?
I grew up in Mt Druitt, was there till I was 13. Then I found my self on the street and out of school. So about the mid 90’s say ’94 – ’96 I was in Surry Hills I started working and been in and out of jobs ever since. Skip forward to my thirties at 36 I got my trade as a fitter and then I wanted to do music. I started rapping in 2019 and dropped my first album in 2020 off my own money.
You bring a hip-hop flow with a twist, is that twist to inspire your listeners to work hard and build themselves as opposed to the stereotypical influence which indorses crime and or violence in rap music?
Yer I think it is to inspire people, to inspire that kid that comes from nothing, has nothing, lives in a violent household that’s considering going to the gangs and crime to say hang on I can get a job and work towards a goal. You don’t have to fall into that system, that stereotype.
Your vision is to unite all the underdogs of the world, who do you think of as the underdog? What’s your definition?
I think an underdog is anyone that that’s trying to get somewhere with a goal, but they have nothing to start out with to put into that goal. If you wanna do music but you didn’t go to school, you go and teach yourself. You might not have friends, you may not have followers, when I dropped my first album, I had zero followers, zero on socials I didn’t have Instagram or Facebook so that was underdog for me. I think the underdog thing is reaching a goal with no help.
In your goal of uniting the underdogs is this to provide them with a collective support network and a voice to speak up or out? Or so the individual can grow through examples of inspiration?
Its for inspiration. I don’t believe in hand outs. I think this whole world of handing out and people handouts is bullshit. It doesn’t let you be creative and resourceful for yourself. I believe giving someone a hand up never a hand-out. Showing them if I can do it with zero schooling, I was out first year of high school, never did music, always in trouble at home and grew up in a very violent household so if I can do it with no resources, I think it makes you more creative. If people keep getting hand-outs they don’t reach their full potential
Music has always been good for the mind, body and soul and you state on your website (underdog444.com) music has helped you through life’s ups and downs, what about it helped and how?
With music I listen too I could relate to the stories they were singing about with out ever meeting them. They also had hustle growing up like we were, they went the violence and drug scene and all that kind of stuff. Relating to their stories gave me inspiration.
You have been concentrating on your music for a few years now. Why is 2020 the year you chose to release your first full album?
I’ve never been one to do anything at 50%, my surrogate mum said to me good or bad you have always done everything at 100% I started writing rhymes in 2019 and I was like ‘ I’m gonna put an album out and I’m just gonna go and do it.
There was no Covid connection?
No I planned all this in the beginning. With any business idea, with anything really you need a plan. 2 -5 year you need a plan. I planned this back in 2019 that 2020 was the year the album was going to be released. I had to build a website learn about the music industry I also had to learn about different platforms to release it. I’m not signed and I don’t have any connections in the industry either, so I had to go and do my research and I spent a year doing that and to get all the platforms to align 2020 was the year to do it
The album is self-funded was that funding hard to find?
No not really I just saved up for the album. I worked for 15 years in a foundry as a fitter and I put my cash away so at 36 I was able to start towards the album. That’s how its self-funded. finding platforms and learning all that stuff was the hard part.
Did you find that hard because of your lack of education or lack of connections do you think?
I think lack of education, but for me I think it may have been a plus. I go into things not naïve, but I go into them with no preconceived doubts about what you can or can’t do
I didn’t tell anyone I was doing this, I just wanted to so I went and did it. I think that’s the purest form, you go and do something and your happy with it you just put it out you don’t need anyone’s approval. Its not tainted by ‘Ol’ mate said you should rap about this’ whereas I’m telling stories about how I grew up and what I did in my life.
Did you do all the writing and production yourself for your album UNDERDOG444 or have you got a great team you work with?
I did it all myself. I wrote every lyric on there. What I did because I can’t read or write properly, I used You Tube and I went alright lets study the last 30 years of music and the industry. You can take someone’s life story and you break it down into what they did right and what they did wrong.
So I sat down and wrote the album, then I found a studio cause I needed someone to do the beats but I did the rest myself down to the producing in the studio. If you want to do something with quality you go to the top people and you don’t have to know them, you listen to their music or you listen to their words or you read their stories find out what they did successfully, and you take those lessons and drag them down to your level. Another thing I did was step back at times and self-analyze the songs and be able to say ‘I could do that better’, ‘this would sound better, and go alright what do I need to do to fix this
I researched studios and went with one with a few guys with decades of experience so they did the music and mixing side so I didn’t have to get those skills. I could ask them what do u need me to do? how do I achieve that result? You can take 100 years’ worth of experience in three people and break it down to your level and you just work on what you need to work on, for me that was the lyrics, learning how to put different levels in songs and then having the final say on it.
Collab’s are huge these days, is this something you would consider doing in the future? Who would the ultimate Collab partner be?
No, I’ve never really thought about doing collaborations. At the end of the day, you want to own everything so that’s why I did it by myself, without contracts or a studio. I own the lyrics. I own the music. Growing up on the streets you learn to do things on your own. It’s an element I don’t want brought into my music.
Have you found finding a fan base hard when your lyrics and ideals go against the traditional norms for your genre of music?
I’m not really sure about this as its all new to me. I’ve found it very challenging to learn about advertising and getting it out there. I have no idea about radio plays or anything like that and I kind of enjoy the challenge to be honest of getting it out there. You get people that actually like your music, people are going to follow you . as a fan base not as a fad. I’m quite happy to build it up slow and be genuine instead of overnight success and wake up one day and go hang on what am I gonna do now.
How do you reach your fans? Given the different environmental isolation that Covid-19 has created? How do you make and maintain that connection given the limits on live gigs, appearances, and travel in general?
I haven’t done a live gig yet, only been doing this for 2 years now just been concentrating on writing and learning to record. Given the technology and what we can do now 2020 was a blessing as it gave me time to learn off You Tube. To learn off Google advertising. Learn off different platforms. I’m not sitting waiting on my music to be successful to collect a paycheck. There is only a small percentage of people that make the big money. If you don’t have a business plan of other avenues if one industry collapses, you lose that income. That’s not good hustle. I’ve got other things I work on, other businesses I work on.
Most artists do years of live performances and never get an album, you have an album without ever performing live?
After working so many years and getting my trade and doing so many courses, I went and learnt business before I learned music. So my plans relating to business aren’t ‘hang on I just got a million views, what’s my next plan?’ No I’ve got my plans for the next five years which started a year ago. My film clips coming up are already planned. The release for another album is already planned.
Does having that give you a focus? Keep you on track? Because you have that plan?
100 percent. Most businesses and governments don’t just decide things or to change things. They have plans that take years. Some things are 10 years in the making, but people don’t realize that. Business that try new things, can be up to five years in the making. Everybody sees things now and wants them now. They think it happens now and it doesn’t happen like that. That’s why I’m ok with how its steadily growing
Your early years in rough neighborhoods and hanging around the streets have shaped your writing and your outlook on life. Which artists or bands do you credit as an influence on your music?
I have to go very old school, which would be Cypress Hill, NWA, then Tu-Pac, stepping to Dr Dre, Eminem went he first came out. It was funny when he first came out, we were all sitting around doing silly little rhymes and then he came out and we were all like ‘well there goes that’. Old school rap is what I’ve always listened too I’d say. I like the story telling, the realness. I like that it wasn’t about bling and pink jackets, faking things to get a rep in the music scene. If you walked into my neighborhood with all that gold hanging off you and a pink jacket, your dead. No two ways about it, that’s what happens, that’s how we grew up. I give respect if your trying to escape that lifestyle its nothing to be glorified.
What's next for UNDERDOG444? What can we expect in 2021 and beyond?
There’s one thing I have always believed in and its gonna stuff this question up and that’s you keep your plans to yourself. It doesn’t let the devil mess it up. In saying that you don’t let other people’s opinions come in and stuff your plans up and creativity as well. So 2021 through to 2025 I have some big things happening and I’m going to keep working on them.
Website: https://underdog444.com
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2PS4bLuoCForxuEj0SA7hw?si=1-jbaK6mTYGl58Ba1fjfIA
interview by Michelle Symes
INTERVIEW WITH DJ FUEL AND SABRO FROM YORK AND 23RD FOR MUSIC FESTIVALS AUSTRALIA
INTERVIEW BY MICHELLE SYMES, NOVEMBER 2020
Thank you for taking the time to answer some questions for Music Festivals Australia in what I can only imagine has been a crazy time with the release of your new song ‘Do You Think About Me?’ on the Friday the 13th.
York and 23rd, firstly congratulations on the new song it’s awesome but Friday the 13th for a release day, assuming you’re not superstitious in any way?
Thank you and definitely not, hahaha we believe that you make your own luck. Hard work and persistence will always pay off regardless of the day it says on the calendar.
It has been four years since your last original music came out, why have we had to wait so long?
Well, It wasn’t due to a lack of motivation or writing new music. We have in fact been working away and have a lot of music ready. But life got in the way a little with Sabro having his first little bub, and Dj Fuel juggling working commitments & working away at building his new label.
‘Do You Think About Me?’ has helped launch the newest name in recording Pumping Records, getting the label catapulted into popular conversation overnight. This has to be something your proud of especially given your connection to the label?
Yes, we are enormously proud. And that was partly the reason we held off on releasing music for so long too. The plan was to release on the Pumping Records when Dj Fuel launched it but it wasn’t the plan to be first cab off the rank but we all felt the record was the perfect fit with cross-over genres appeal to show what the label had to offer and to show our versatility too.
When you first met in 2015, it is told that you bonded over your taste in music, but it was a very teacher/student relationship in regard to the industry. Is this still the case or as music has progressed to more digital platforms those roles have changed?
The taste in music is still relevant as it’s forever evolving and we are still on the same page, you could say we both have the same palette, when new music comes along we both vibe the same stuff. As for the teacher/student relationship, we both brought different elements to the table. Dj Fuel with the Industry and Sabro with the technical side, and just like music both sides are evolving. We are not ones to sit still, we continually research and learn more about those parts and converse on how they could benefit us as both York & 23rd and our solo projects.
Creating your own vocal content for your music was a natural progression for you to make, was this an easy step to take? What were the challenges involved in deciding what was the right sound you needed?
It was always the plan but having limited resources at the beginning of the York & 23rd project we didn’t have a track record, so finding willing songwriters/vocalist to get involved was a challenge so we used what we had at our disposal, ie samples. As for the challenges regarding the sound of the vocal on Do You Think About Me? This was a tough one, we did go through a few vocalist, all great in there own respect, it just didn’t fit this record, as soon as we heard a demo by Kalun, we just knew this was it..
You worked with Kalun Townsend from Goldblum for this song. Were you fans before the collaboration?
It was one of those organic relationships when it comes to this record and the collab with Kalun. Dj Fuel & Kalun worked together in their “9-5 jobs” and both knew of each other’s music endeavours. Original Dj Fuel asked to Kalun to write lyrics but once we both heard his voice on the instrumental (which is a totally different sound to his Goldblum stuff) we needed to have him on the record. And he happily agreed.
DJ Fuel, you work in broadcasting, so it's fair to say you’re on the inside when it comes to radio. Did this help to get ‘Do You Think About Me’ the airplay it deserves on Australian air waves or did the National stations recognize the commerciality on their own?
In some respects, yes but the song will always do the talking. You must understand the nature of the beast. I would never pitch a Trance song to a commercial radio station or anything not in line with the stations demo or music position. I have heard stories and witnessed it myself, people will pitch anything to any station with the hope they may play it, you only end up wasting the music directors time & you’ll almost certainly end up blacklisting yourself from their email list.
As for Do You Think About Me?, It has the commercial appeal with the vocal, but also the roots of house music for the dance stations. So I made sure I reached out to this correct stations for this record.
Do you think the 25% minimum quota requirement for Australian music to be played on our radio stations (data from https://www.aph.gov.au/) is a fair number given the ever-expanding talent pool we have in this country? Would you like to see that number increased or even a dedicated Aussie station?
We can never have enough Aussie Music on our radio stations. Speaking from my own experience with my radio show, I play a lot of music by Australian artists as I think they are some of the best in the world and deserve all the exposure they can. (Dj Fuel)
Collaborations expected and not so expected are happening a lot these days, and with great success too. Is this a trend we will see York and 23rd follow? Who would you love to work with both locally and internationally?
Our door is always open.. we have a list of international artists we would like to work with, but we can definitely say our local list is a lot longer, producer wise and songwriters/vocalists.
The music scene in Newcastle is amazing and has produced talent from the underground for many years. Who do you see coming up through the ranks that we need to watch out for?
It sure has, Newcastle LOVES its music which spawns great producers, musicians & singers, Being signed to Pumping Records we can say that there is a small crew of very talented artists here who have some amazing records to be released over the next year. Without giving too much away, just watch this space, some may even be remixing our single Do You Think About Me?
What's next for York and 23rd? What can we expect in 2021 and beyond?
Music, Music and more Music.. and gigs when Covid is over. For beyond that, touring and working with more amazing artists and creating great music for everyone to enjoy.
Blessed to be Faithless
It was only a few weeks before this one that I was listening to ‘Insomnia,’ coincidentally, late one night. Little did I know at the time that this week I would have the opportunity to interview Sister Bliss from Faithless to discuss the first studio album in 10 years- ‘All Blessed.’
I was the one more blessed in this moment.
Taking the world by storm in 1996 with their debut album ‘Reverance’ -at the age of thirteen there was something so commanding about the music and videography.
Faithless have held a pioneering position in the world of dance/electronica that dates back prior to the release of this album and followed by the success of further albums, ‘Sunday 8pm’ in 1998, ‘Outrospective’ in 2001 and ‘No Roots’ in 2004. In their career, Faithless have graced Festival stages the world over including Glastonbury’s Pyramid stage and Tomorrowland Festival.
On Tuesday, Music Festivals Australia spoke with Sister Bliss Live from the U.K. to discuss the new album ‘All Blessed’ and the lifetime of successes that have embodied Faithless.
Thank you so much for your time, Sister Bliss.
Faithless have achieved massive success spanning the some (25) year career. 7 top ten singles, 6 top 10 albums with three at number 1. Can you discuss this journey and some of your career highlights?
Gosh I mean, I think a lot of the highlights for me has been in the performance, you know, going out live. Because that’s the point of focus really -that connection and you have this pivotal moment where all that stuff you’ve been doing in the studio and all the obsessing and stressing and you play that music and see people’s faces shining and lost in your music or cheering or jumping up and down it’s the most amazing thing. I have been so blessed touring the world as a DJ. When you have an audience there and of course that’s the thing that I’m missing terribly.
We did this album in 2015 called ‘Faithless 2.0’ a remix album of our greatest hits and toured it and there was so much love and appreciation which gave a sense of being more invigorated. People still care.
There is something very timeless about your music
Yeah, Wow- sometimes you wonder if you’re going to stay relevant and all of those things. You struggle with it. I think electronic music is one of the more forgiving genres
There have been so many highlights- we’ve headlined festivals across the world, sharing the stage with some of the greatest artists who ever walked the planet.
Can you tell us about some of your collaborations such as Robert Smith from The Cure?
It was all very chill. I couldn’t believe it. It all happened via email. He liked what we were doing with the track and off he went. It was one of those ones that happened long distance. Like some of the collaborations we had done long distance Cat Power and on this album Damien Jurado. He sings a song on the end of the album called take your time which is about slowing down just like we’ve been kind of forced to and about that idea that in the rush we miss the beauty in life. Little moments which are actually the most beautiful and nourishing. I just absolutely love his voice. He basically sent us a vocal and some lyrics and then I wrote the music around it. It was just a lovely way to collaborate as I think a lot of people do it that way. But, I love being in the studio where your openly connecting with people and getting to know them. You’re making yourself vulnerable and I think that’s one of the great pleasures of making music is that moment of vulnerability.
The first new album in 10 years, ‘All Blessed’ was released last month on BMG records. Can you discuss the concept of this album and how it came to fruition?
It’s completely bonkers that we put an album out in this environment when we had no idea when the album was done (2020) would come along and that our industry would be so massively impacted. I believe that this album will have the potential to connect with people in this particular time in a bizarre way. All Blessed is quite relevant.
“It’s about human connection and about reaching out and finding nourishment in those smaller moments in these divisive, polarizing times. Where do we find empathy? Where do we find tolerance? Where do we find those little moments away from the trauma of everyday news? Where do we find our humanity in what we feared or failed for? ”
— SISTER BLISS
Originally we weren’t going to do an album- we just started making tracks and playing them out in our DJ sets and getting all excited. We worked with artists on this album that we have never worked with before Suli Breaks, Caleb Femi who comes from a spoken word poetry scene. Jazzie B. and also Gaika and it was amazing being in the room with these guys a very profound experience. It reminded me of how we made Reverance our first album and we had just met Maxi and learning about him and Buddhist beliefs. Once we started writing then the music would change because these guys all have different voices
There’s a lot of heart on this record- it’s a very warm record. It’s not angry and aggressive- it’s got a lot of swagger and some dark corners that are very lush. It will take you on a journey.
It’s a call for unity and empathy because I don’t see how we are going to move forward as a human race without it.
The song ‘Synthesizer’ released 23rd August features Nathan Ball. What is the story behind this track?
It was the first track that made us go- let’s put out lots. It started as a sketch idea. Electronic music is the central spine, it’s our passion and I love the way that it feels like it comes from the future and it kind of hollows you out. It was more than that, it was about technology and the way we have relationships with technology that is like a lover- like we don’t let go of our phones and our relationships with people become very transactional- What’s the role of people when we mediate everything through technology? It’s a kind of little double meaning, but it was a bit tongue and cheek. It’s a love letter to the human being .
The video for synthesizer directed by Strangeloop and produced by [namethemachine] is set in a futuristic robotic world. Can you discuss the direction of the video and how it was conceptualized?
The video brought more of a dystopian theme this idea that the drones are feeding from a mothership which is this kind of a huge synthesizer that powers the whole planet and there’s a kind of crazy megalomaniac scientist with one finger bashing to destroy the whole planet. It’s an idea that they’re being powered by the unvalued work of the drones- the worker bees it creates capitalism basically and they’re exploited for it- then the whole system overloads and blows up
What was in your kit for Áll Blessed”- software hardware or a mix of both?
I use Logics as my software, I use a Mac and I use lots of keyboards a lot of plug ins. I write everything on keyboard pretty much and piano. If we want guitars then we get guitarists in which brings a freshness to it. I pretty much play everything so it’s just me.
You’ve stayed traditional to your original sound when even a lot of old producers have touched on some of the newer elements of bass, trap etc. How have you enjoyed the progression of electronic music?
For me it keeps everything fresh- I have a radio show ‘Sister Bliss in Sessions’ every single week, rain or shine. I’m always listening to new music so it keeps me on top of everything I guess. I think there’s a lot that’s quite retro at the moment, there’s a lot of disco type records, stripped down old school house which is truly nineties. And then you have artists like James Blake who just take it to a whole new multi-dimension, “welcome to the future” because the sound is so layered and textured and very forward thinking production techniques in a lot of his music for example. You have a lot of people who keep pushing the envelope with what you can do with production in a studio so it’s as rich a time as it ever was for electronic music. Especially now people are stuck home and they cant go out to gigs, my god, there is literally a tsunami of dark music coming our way.
What’s next for Faithless?
I’ve got a couple more remixes of Synthesizer coming out, and then our next single ‘I need someone’ which features Nathan Ball and Caleb Femi- a big emotional tune which feels more relevant.
When the world opens back up are you looking forward to touring the new material? Can Australian audiences expect a Faithless tour in support of your new album ‘All Blessed’?
I would love to come back to Australia. I was gutted- I was supposed to be there for a tour in May. I had a very good tour in 2019 and it was so wonderful to connect with the Aussie audience. It was quite punishing something like 8 gigs in 10 days in something like 6 different time zones and New Zealand as well. Let’s hope everybody can come together again safely. Life gets very monochrome when you can’t do the things that you are used to doing. But there’s also that feeling that when we do come back out again, people won’t take it for granted . Having our freedom removed in that way is very powerful it’s very poignant. Sometimes clubbing is a community. Some people invest in the whole lifestyle, it’s inspiring and that feeling of communal joy, it’s very special. It’s not just people enjoying amazing music and artists but they're enjoying a collective experience they don’t get very often in our everyday lives, that feeling of community that keeps people grounded and connected. Mental health is so important. It’s not the same dancing in my living room. I just love going out.
There is definitely something in the experience
Absolutely, it’s a part of keeping that inspiration going, seeing new venues and getting excited ‘Right, I really want to play there.’ Anyway, fingers crossed for next year.
Faithless ‘All Blessed’ is available now on BMG Records.
Images supplied courtesy of Faithless
Article by Pieta Clarke
Gettin' on the Beers with Mashd N Kutcher
MASHD N KUTCHER
INTERVIEW BY MICHELLE SYMES
Thank you Matt and Adam for taking the time to answer some questions for Music Festivals Australia especially in a week of such important announcements and trying to ‘Get on the Beers’ in Victoria.
Mashd N Kutcher your latest mix that sampled a simple Daniel Andrews phrase from a press conference and created ‘Get on the Beers’ received over 600k views in its first 21 hours, How does it feel to be responsible for the anthem of 2020?
to be honest it came as somewhat of a surprise, without being able to tour or travel at all this year we were forced to stay at home and write music, and with politics front and center on every TV channel seemed like it might be fun to remix something and turns out the people agreed
Have you had a chance to ‘Get on the Beers’ with the Victorian Premier yet?
We suspect he’s got a few more things on his plate at the moment haha
You have crafted several versions of the song as the lockdown continued, including the latest, Zero Cases remix released Monday after the press conference that freed Victoria. What has been your favourite mix?
We have been saving various numbers that he’s mentioned along the way of statistics in each press conference so pretty confident he’s counted down completely from 60 to 0, should make for a cracker NYE countdown remix haha
Mashd N Kutcher had shows scheduled all over the world which had to be cancelled due to Covid-19, Which was the one that disappointed you the most to miss?
Getting over to some new territories we haven’t spent a whole lot of time in like North America or the UK would have been amazing this year but we’re hopeful we’ll be able to do it at some point in the future. For now it will be good to get around Australia and bring some entertainment to our local pubs and clubs.
Covid-19 and the restrictions it has imposed has defiantly made life hard for all but it hasn’t stopped you for creating new music such as ‘Last Resort’ released this month, what have been the challenges you have faced during this time of isolation ?
You may be surprised to hear that in terms of being creative and writing music it’s actually been a great time for us. As an act who has toured weekly and consistently for almost 7 years its been a forced change to that pattern of flying every week and allowed us to really take some time to think and plan music.
March 2020 saw the release of the haunting and heavy ‘No One Alive’ in which you teamed up with Terror Bass. This song while being amazing is quite different to your back catalogue of music, did you enjoy the change? Is this a style we will see you do more of in the future?
That song is a very unique one. It is disgusting haha. We set out to try and make the most abrasive song we could possibly seek to make at the time, and it’s definitely not for everyone. Its one of those songs if you really like it then awesome, and if it’s not for you then totally understood haha. Might take a bit to top the heaviness there.
Mashd N Kutcher have collaborated with some great names in the last three years, including Tyron Hapi, Avadox and Alex Aiono. Has there been any highlights during these collab sessions?
Collaborations are always rewarding in the creative experience. These three guys you mentioned for example all bring totally different things to the table and even just being part of the creative process with each of them you learn a lot and hope to pass on things too.
Your song ‘Like Fire’ (with Ben Nicky and Luciana) is my favourite collaboration of yours to date, who would be your favourite artist/group to work with in the future?
Thanks! It’s a favourite of ours too. It began as a writing session with Luciana over in LA and the track then sat on our laptops for probably about 18 months. After a while we picked up the demo again and tried a few different styles, eventually sent it to Ben and he knew exactly what it needed. Real rewarding one that one. We would love to work with some live bands of different genres and I suppose Skrillex would be up there with ultimate collab goals.
I have been lucky enough to have seen you perform in a range of venues from small regional club, and Australian ( Lunar Electric ) and International ( Ultra ) based festivals and every time you deliver a brilliant live show which the audience feeds off, do you have a favourite venue or event you look forward to attending ?
Awww that’s awesome, glad you had a blast. It’s really hard to specify a particular one, however Ultra as you mentioned was particularly good. 3rd year in a row playing it and its always special.
Life has certainly changed since the 2014 release of ‘Do It Now’ for Mashd N Kutcher, what has been the best and worst of the journey so far?
The best was probably those platinum records and the worst probably COVID haha
What is next for Mashd N Kutcher? What can we expect for 2021 and beyond?
As we’re at the mercy of things out of our control at present, it really just comes down to ideas, creativity, being willing to take risks and try new things, and grow as musicians and artists. We’re not against taking on comedic viral video remixes but at the same time we’re both trained musicians who are passionate about writing serious original compositions, with a variety of influences. I guess what this translates to a wide variety of things but we’ll continue to take the risks and put our hearts into what we do.
In a nutshell - music, entertainment and hopefully moments and ideas that people remember and connect with.
Timmy Trumpet and his Freakshow
Thank you for taking the time to answer some questions for Music Festivals Australia especially in the week of such an important event for you, your Freakshow event on Halloween at the Sydney Cricket Ground on the 31st October 2020.
How do you prepare for an event like this, given the different environment isolation and Covid-19 has created?
I would normally be playing 3-4 shows per week, sometimes more in the summer so planning livestreams every few months gives me the opportunity to create something unique and special every time. This show will be my best performance yet!
Freakshow is a streamed event, a first for the SCG. Are there any new challenges this creates for you as an artist?
Not really. I do what I do as soon as I’m on the stage. It would be nice to be playing in front of thousands of fans or seeing our favourite artists up close and personal, but we have to make the best out of wherever we are in the life and move with the times. Playing the SCG is no consolation prize. This will be an epic show by any standards and it’s kinda cool that no matter where you are you can be part of this experience.
You participated in this year’s digitally streamed Tomorrowland - Around the World, what was that like compared to playing in front of a live audience?
Tomorrowland is one of my favourite performances of the year, so it was pretty amazing to see the promoters go to such great lengths to make sure that everyone had the best experience possible. The production was unbelievable and the fans around the world really appreciated it. Playing in front of a greenscreen you don’t actually know how it will turn out, so I was just like the fans watching it for the first time when I replayed it. That was pretty cool.
‘Freakshow’ will see you play previously unreleased tracks. What can fans expect from this performance?
I’m playing a bunch of tracks from my upcoming debut artist album. I’ve spent most of the year focussed on making the album. It’s a much more diverse body of work than people might expect from me but there’s some tracks that I can’t wait to unleash.
Throughout lockdown in 2020 you have reached out to your fans for audience inclusion, firstly with the track “Diamonds” and now in your request for photos for your debut album cover. Is this your way of staying connected to them? What was behind this motivation?
Absolutely! Diamonds was the first track I released after most of us were experiencing lockdowns. We wanted to make a video that showed how my fans in particular were dealing with the pandemic in the best way they could. I had the idea of making a music video together with my fans. Shaun David Barker directed the video, but the fans are the ones that took this concept to a whole new level by sharing intimate stories with us over Zoom, Skype, calls and conferences. Making a video in isolation was challenging but I’m very proud of it. This week I personally read hundreds of stories from fans about their experiences during 2020 and what their favourite pictures mean to them. I’m so honoured to feature a part of their lives in the art they inspired me to make.
Timmy, you have asked fans to show what 2020 means to them in pictures, what has it meant for you? Is there one picture you would choose?
https://www.instagram.com/p/CCjOfIbDdPk/
It would be this one of Anett and I. It was the first photo I posted after she said yes when I asked her to marry me in one of my livestreams. My best friend just agreed to spend the rest of her life with me. I’m the luckiest guy in the world!
You have been playing music since you were 4 when and released your first track ‘Sunrise' to the world in 2009. Why is 2020 the year you have chosen to release your first full album?
I’ve always wanted to release an album but this year I realised that it would mean more if I made “our album” instead of my album. It would give myself and my fans something we could all remember 2020 by rather than just all the crazy stuff. This album is a collection of music that sums up what this year means to me, and the people that inspired me to write it. My fans are the biggest part of that inspiration.
You have done some amazing collaborations over the years and 2020 has been no exception to that, Vini Vici, Zafrir, Nicky Romero, Dimitri Vegas and Like Mike, just to name a few. Who can we expect to see you working with in 2021? Who would the ultimate collab partner be?
A collab with Post Malone and Daft Punk would be pretty cool! I’d love to hear what that track would sound like! As for 2021 I’m always up for collabs and even the most unlikely names, so anything is possible. There’s a couple of tracks slated for release with heroes of mine so that is fucking exciting. 2021 is gonna be amazing!
Will 2021 bring the much anticipated and talked about third time amalgamation of you and the legend Savage for the follow up to the single “Freaks” that launched you onto the international stage in 2014 and your second single DeJa-Vu in 2017?
I love working with Savage. He has a heart of gold and talent like no other in the industry. I’m always down to work with him so I definitely wouldn’t rule that out.
Daft Punk have been cited as one of your early inspirations, as well as your father who taught you how to play trumpet. Who else do credit as an influence on your music?
There’s no one I can’t credit. We’re all just borrowing ideas at this point and each new reincarnation breathes new life and respect to the artists who came before us. I’m always listening, and I love hearing music that shocks me. That new way of musical thinking that changes the way we move.
‘Freaks’, ‘Hipsta’, ‘Punjabi’ and ‘Oracle’ are all crowd favourites that create a frenzy amongst fans when first notes ring out at your events. Which is your favourite song to perform live?
I love performing and it’s hard to pick favourites. The reaction from Toco gives me chills every time but it’s all about where and how you perform each song and who you are playing them to. There’s a magical moment for every track.
What's next for Timmy Trumpet? What can we expect in 2021 and beyond?
Right now I’m taking each day as it comes and looking forward to playing my music for people all over the world in livestreams and on tour.
29 OCTOBER 2020
Interview by Michelle Symes
Sunset Bros are here to ‘f#*king party’
Backing up from Ultra Australia in 2019, Sunset Bros have again been billed for one of the biggest dance festivals to hit our shores in 2020, Ultra Australia.
The duo from Sydney cemented their name on dancefloors across the world with their distinct sound- a fusion of house, hard house, techo and trance. With label homes at the prestigious Universal Music Group (UK) and Xploded, the future is paramount for the Sunset Bros; with new singles, remixes and even bigger shows to come.
Music Festivals Australia had the opportunity to ask the Sunset Bros some burning questions ahead of this weekends’ performance at Ultra Australia.
https://youtu.be/2IXS2exYYDU
Provided to YouTube by Universal Music Group The Calling · Sunset Bros The Calling ℗ 2019 Xploded Music Limited Released on: 2019-09-06 Producer: Glenn Wilso...
How do you prepare yourself for an event like Ultra Australia?
Plenty of studio time, water and clean eating!
What can we expect from your upcoming performance at Ultra Australia,2020?
A F#*king party!
What is your favourite track to perform live?
There’s so many but it has to be “I’m feeling it” purely because it’s such a crowd favourite.
Apart from your own, which set are you most looking forward to at Ultra Australia in 2020?
With such an awesome lineup its really hard to decide but Eric Prydz/Cirez Dhas always been a major influence on us musically!
Last year, Sunset Bros shared the stage with Will Sparks, can we expect any collaborations at Ultra Australia in 2020?
We have a few surprises like always, but we can say we have a collabs to premier.
Can we expect any of your new releases on your setlist for Ultra Australia in 2020?
Yes indeed.
If you could collaborate with any artist on a stage like Ultra, who would it be?
All of them!
After Ultra Australia, 2020,what’s next?
More music, and something really, really special later this year ;)
Image Courtesy of Sunset Bros
Article by Pieta Clarke