Gavin Mac will Make You Feel
PHOTO CREDIT: HUGH STEWART
Sydney-based alt-country artist Gavin Mac has delivered his brand new song titled ‘Sideswiped’. The new track is the artist's first music release of 2024 and follows up last year's trio of singles, ‘Bushfire’, ‘Live Your Life’ and ‘Getaway’. All four tracks give fans a healthy sneak peek of what is to come from Mac’s debut album, ‘Make You Feel’ which is set for release on the 5th of September this year. We caught up with Gavin to ask him about his Sony signing, the story behind ‘Sideswiped’ and the forthcoming album.
For those who haven’t heard your music before, how would you describe the Gavin Mac sound?
I like to describe my sound as "modern nostalgia." It’s dynamic and packed with sounds and instrumentation that give a nod to the past while still feeling fresh and new. It’s all about creating a vibe that resonates on multiple levels.
Gavin, you have just released your new track 'Sideswiped.' What inspired the writing of this track?
'Sideswiped' is one of the first songs I ever wrote as a kid. The inspiration came from the idea of having one of those days where everything goes completely sideways. During the pandemic, I had some extra time on my hands, so I revisited and reworked the song to really flesh out the story and make it something special.
“Getting signed by Sony at 16 was surreal”
'Sideswiped' got you signed by Sony Music at the tender age of 16. What was that like for the teenage you?
Getting signed by Sony at 16 was surreal. As a teenager, it felt like a dream come true. It was a whirlwind experience, and looking back, it was a huge milestone that really solidified my passion for making music.
The song got shelved for a few years, so what made 2024 the right time to revisit and then release the track to the world?
2024 just felt like the right time to bring 'Sideswiped' back to life. With everything that’s happened over the past few years, it seemed like the perfect moment to share this song’s story. Plus, having that extra time during the pandemic to refine and perfect it made it all come together.
“it’s been polished and refined to better connect with listeners today”
Has the song changed or morphed since you wrote it, or has it been delivered in its original form?
The core of the song is still the same, but it’s definitely evolved. I reworked parts of it to enhance the narrative and overall vibe. So, while the essence remains, it’s been polished and refined to better connect with listeners today.
Can we expect a full-length album or an EP out soon?
My debut album, "Make You Feel," is all set and ready to drop on September 5th. It’s been a long journey getting here, and I’m beyond excited to finally share it with the world.
“There are more touring plans coming together for later this year”
Are there plans to tour and showcase 'Sideswiped' live for fans?
I have some gigs lined up, like playing at the Robin Hood in Sydney on June 22 and the Post Office Hotel in Tamworth on July 20. There are more touring plans coming together for later this year, so stay tuned!
You have worked with some big names including Nickelback, Queens Of The Stone Age, and Vika & Linda since your youthful signing. What did you learn from working with such long-established groups?
Working with such iconic artists taught me a lot about professionalism, stage presence, and the importance of connecting with your audience. Each of these experiences was a masterclass in different aspects of being a musician, from songwriting to performance.
“I learned the importance of being authentic and true to your sound”
You worked as an A&R manager for Roadrunner Records. What Do's and Don'ts as an artist have you adopted from your time in that role?
From my A&R days, I learned the importance of being authentic and true to your sound. The biggest "Do" is to stay genuine in your music. The biggest "Don't" is to chase trends just because they’re popular. Authenticity always resonates more with listeners.
Who in your crew or team deserves a shout-out but never gets one? And what is it they do that keeps your world turning?
My tour manager (Greg) definitely deserves a shout-out. They handle all the behind-the-scenes chaos and make sure everything runs smoothly, from logistics to making sure I’m where I need to be. They’re the unsung hero of the team!
Do you have a message for the Gavin Mac fans and supporters?
To all my fans and supporters, I just want to say thank you from the bottom of my heart. Your support means everything to me. Keep an eye out for new music, and I can’t wait to see you at the shows!
Make You Feel is set for release on Thursday, the 5th of September.
UPCOMING SHOW:
SAT 20 JULY - POST OFFICE HOTEL, TAMWORTH, NSW Free Event, onstage at 4:30pm
