2024 · Blues Bytes archive
Interview by Bob Gordon
What’s the best thing about playing festivals?
What I love most about playing at festivals is the combination of energy and connection. The excitement of performing in an amazing location with a large, enthusiastic crowd is unmatched. Festivals give me the chance to meet so many different people, both in the audience and behind the scenes, creating lasting connections. There’s also something special about playing on big stages – the sound quality and professional equipment really let us showcase our music in the best possible way. Plus, the chance to introduce our sound to new listeners helps build a growing community around our music and our social media platforms.
Do you have a Blues at Bridgetown experience that you’d like to share, either performing or as an audience member?
Some of the highlights for me were at Scott’s Tavern, playing saxophone in the audience when they all danced around me, taking selfies and videos. I also enjoyed walking around the town and talking to people who told me they were looking forward to my next show.
Where do you feel you fit in musically along the blues, roots and reggae scale?
I feel my music sits in the middle of traditional blues, particularly Delta blues. I love the raw, authentic sound of the early blues. It’s where the soul of the genre really comes alive. At the same time, I enjoy pushing boundaries by blending that classic feel with the intensity and energy of hard rock. This fusion allows me to keep the roots of the blues alive.
What have been the highlights of your music career thus far?
The journey so far has been full of incredible highlights. It all began with my appearance on Little Big Shots, which was an amazing experience that really kickstarted my passion for performing. Winning two gold medals for Australia at the World Championship of Performing Arts in Los Angeles was a huge milestone, and playing in the clubs of Memphis was unforgettable—being in the heart of blues music. Appearing on Italian TV with the legendary Al Bano was another amazing moment in my career.
I’ve also been lucky to share the stage with top musicians in Perth, such as Lucky Oceans and Adam Hall, which has been an honour. Performing at festivals like Strings Attached and Perth Bluesfest has been another exciting part of the journey. Now, being at WAAPA, surrounded by some of Perth’s most talented jazz and contemporary teachers and students, is an inspiring step as I continue to grow musically.”
What have you been mainly focussing on in 2024 and how is it coming along?
Collaborating with some of Perth’s best musicians, looking at playing at other festivals nationally and internationally. Writing and recording my own music.
What are your plans and hopes for 2025?
Continue to further my studies at university, continue to collaborate with some of Perth’s best musicians, travel and perform internationally, and reach a larger audience.
What can folks expect from your performances at Blues at Bridgetown?
An authentic blues experience with some high energy rock thrown in. I’m going to mix it up and play piano, guitar and saxophone, and I’m going to have a great time.
