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Paul Andrews - Drums 0

Paul Andrews was a founding member and chief singer/songwriter in Sydney band Lazy Susan and the driving force behind its four albums, six EPs, and countless national and international tours. Shortly after Lazy Susan played their final gig, Paul began writing songs for a new project that was eventually to become Family Fold.  Fast forward to late 2017 and Family Fold’s second album, Ashfield Skyline took shape under the masterful watch of Nashville producer Brad Jones. A recently released single from Ashfled Skyline, ‘Molly Meldrum’s Eyes’ is cut from the same easy, laid back Americana cloth of Wilco’s ‘Being There’, the Jayhawks’ ‘Hollywood Town Hall’, and Gold Smog’s ‘Weird Tales’.  Built around harmonica, slide guitar and honky tonk piano, it is an evocation of 70s and 80s Australia; of the immeasurable influence ‘Countdown’ had on a generation of music-mad young people.

‘Ashfield Skyline’ will be released on October 5th. Ahead of the album release, Paul Andrews was kind enough to proffer a musician profile for us.

Even though I’m the singer-songwriter and rhythm guitarist in Family Fold, the drums were my first instrument and they’re what I enjoy playing the most. I really don’t know anything about mics and guitars (other than what sounds good), but I know a lot more about drums. So that’s why I chose this category.

What was your first kit like?
It was a Century drum kit, second hand, in high school. The guy I bought it off was in a band with my friends and had been at closing down sale for an instrument shop where everything had been priced to clear. The crowd grew massive before the doors opened and things got out of control and he was pushed through the front glass window. They gave him the kit for free to make up for it. But not long after he started playing, he realised he was going deaf. So I bought it from him for a couple of hundred, albeit with no cymbals, and joined the band the next day.

What was your first band t-shirt?
A Neil Young and the Lost Dogs Australian tour t-shirt in 1989. I wore it until it disintegrated.

A record that changed your life?
George Harrison’s All Things Must Pass. No record has ever meant as much to me.

What’s your regular kit set up?
I’ve got a Ludwig Classic Maple that I splurged on a few years back.

Is it the same for recording?
If I’m playing drums on a recording, I like going somewhere that has access to a range of kits and snares so I can play around with the
sounds. I don’t usually take my kit to record with.

What sticks do you favour?
I’m pretty unadventurous when it comes to my sticks. I usually go with Vic Firth 5A American Classics with wood tip.

Other drummers that you admire?
And endless number, but if you had to pin me down, three names I always come back to: Ringo taught me how to serve the song; Mitch
Mitchell taught me how to fill; and Stewart Copeland just blew my mind.

What’s your latest recording and when will you be back in the studio?
My band Family Fold has a new album by the name of Ashfield Skyline which I recorded in Nashville in late 2017. I’m hoping to start on its follow up in 2019.

What gigs have you been playing lately?
Mainly around Sydney’s inner west: Gasoline Pony, The Union Hotel, The Hideaway Bar.

Most memorable gig?
To attend: seeing Nirvana playing Selina’s in 1992. The room became so hot with thrashing bodies, it started raining from the ceiling.
To play: supporting Brian Wilson at The Enmore in 2010.

Worst stage nightmare?
Most of them I’ve encountered in real life. Like starting a song in front of thousands of people with the capo on the wrong fret while the rest of the band is playing in a different key. So embarrassing.

What gigs are coming up in the next few months?
I’m looking forward to playing the Dashville Skyline festival in the Hunter Valley and playing Some Velvet Morning in Melbourne.

A drum tip for the kids?
It’s so tempting when you’re starting out – especially when you’re sitting at the back of the band – to play over everyone and do a million fills because you want people to hear you and notice you can play. But the reality is no one comes to see a band for the drummer. And trust me, if you keep doing fills everywhere or playing outside the song, your bandmates will kick you out before too long. Your job is to serve the song. Keep that at the heart of everything you do and you’ll be fine.

Catch Paul Andrews & Family Fold Live
Sun Sept 30   Dashville Skyline Festival, Belford, NSW
Thurs Oct 4    Some Velvet Morning, Melbourne – Ashfield Skyline album launch
Sat Oct 13      The Noble Hops, Redfern, Sydney
Sun Nov 25    The Union Hotel, Newtown, Sydney – Ashfield Skyline album launch

Family Fold on Twitter: @familyfold
Family Fold on facebook: @familyfold

Snarky Puppy Add Bluesfest Side Shows 0

Bluesfest Touring are proud to present Snarky Puppy for headline shows in Melbourne, Adelaide and Sydney this April. The New York based quasi-collective has gone from the best kept secret to one of the most respected names in instrumental music. Snarky Puppy seamlessly fuses a deep knowledge and respect for musical tradition with sonic and conceptual innovation in a way that can reach the most critical or most carefree audience. This convergence of musicians from white and black America have performed regularly with artists like Erykah Badu, Snoop Dogg, Kirk Franklin, Justin Timberlake and Marcus Miller among many others.

Formed in Texas 12 years ago by exceptional young musicians, the band is a collective that is orchestrated by bassist Michael League, whose creative grass roots approach to a tougher than ever industry has created a new model for independent artists.

The last four years have brought dramatic changes for Snarky Puppy. After a decade of relentless touring and recording in all but complete obscurity, the Texas-bred/New York-based quasi-collective suddenly found itself held up by the press and public as one of the major figures in the jazz world. But as the category names for all three of the band’s Grammy® awards would indicate (Best R&B Performance in 2014, Best Contemporary Instrumental Album in 2016 and 2017), Snarky Puppy isn’t exactly a jazz band. It’s not a fusion band, and it’s definitely not a jam band. It’s probably best to take Nate Chinen of the New York Times’ advice, as stated in an online discussion about the group, to “take them for what they are, rather than judge them for what they’re not.”

Snarky Puppy is a collective of sorts with as many as 25 members in regular rotation. They each maintain busy schedules as sidemen (with such artists as Erykah Badu, Snoop Dogg, Kendrick Lamar, and D’Angelo), producers (for Kirk Franklin, David Crosby, and Salif Keïta), and solo artists (many of whom are on the band’s indy label, GroundUP Music). At its core, the band represents the convergence of both black and white American music culture with various accents from around the world. Japan, Argentina, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Puerto Rico all have representation in the group’s membership. But more than the cultural diversity of the individual players, the defining characteristic of Snarky Puppy’s music is the joy of performing together in the perpetual push to grow creatively.
On-sale Dates
Pre-sale – 10:00 am AEST Wednesday, September 19th (9:30am ACST – Adelaide)
General On-sale – 10:00 am AEST Monday, September 21st (9:30am ACST – Adelaide)

Tour Dates
Sun 21st April 2019, Enmore Theatre Sydney (ALL ages show)
Sydney tickets via Ticketek

Wed 24th April 2019, HQ Adelaide
Adelaide tickets via OzTix

Fri 26th April 2019, The Forum Melbourne
Melbourne tickets via Ticketmaster

Also performing at Bluesfest’s 30th Anniversary

STEVE VAI’S BIG MAMA-JAMA JAMATHON TO BE LIVE STREAMED 0

Legendary guitarist and musician Steve Vai will host and serve as the musical director for “The Big Mama-Jama Jamathon” —an open, improvisational music/art event where the music doesn’t stop for 52 hours—to be held Sept. 28-30, 2018 at Musicians Institute’s brand new venue, LiveHouse, in Los Angeles, California. The Jamathon will mark the public grand opening of LiveHouse. 100% of the profits raised will benefit Extraordinary Families, a leading nonprofit foster family, adoption agency in the Los Angeles area dedicated to improving the daily lives of children and youths in foster care.

Vai is pleased to announce that Dave Navarro, Moby, Dweezil Zappa, Al Di Meola, Steve Morse, Lee Ritenour, Andy Vargas and Souleros and many others have already committed to perform at the event that weekend.  Various other professional musicians to be announced (including many of Vai’s friends) and novice musicians, along with celebrities, painters, poets, magicians, visual artists, speakers and other creative performers from all genres are invited to support each other in an “in-the-moment,”continuous 52-hour jam featuring non-stop music and other creative activity. Vai will be center stage for the majority of the event and will be directing the band and jammers in an impromptu setting. The current schedule is available here:  https://www.jamathon.org/schedule

The festivities, which will commence on Friday, Sept. 28 at Noon Pacific and conclude at 4:00 p.m. Pacific on Sunday, Sept. 30, will be streamed live worldwide via www.jamathon.org, www.vai.com, and Steve’s official Facebook page, alongside other outlets including websites, social media, and cable TV stations. The website www.jamathon.org includes more specifics about the jam-a-thon and outlines various ways to be involved and donate to Extraordinary Families.

“I currently serve on the board of Extraordinary Families and let me tell you, these folks are extraordinary, and do vital work for families and children in L.A.,”said Steve Vai. “It is such an honor to be involved with this organization, and to host something like this that will benefit so many children and families. ‘The Big Mama-Jama Jamathon’will be a ton of fun and a place where anything can happen —expect quite a wild ride!”

“Our organization is so fortunate to have such extraordinary and dedicated supporters who have demonstrated a long-standing commitment as role models for children and youth in foster care,”said Sarah Boone, Chief Executive Officer of Extraordinary Families. “And we welcome more supporters to be someone who matters to someone who matters.”

Stig Mathisen, Chair of the Guitar Program at Musicians Institute (MI) added: “MI is very honored to team up with Steve Vai and Extraordinary Families for this unique charity event and important cause, bringing together the world of music academia and the music industry, benefitting families that are doing an incredibly important job of providing support for children and youth in foster care.”

Auction items, including instruments donated by Vai, Slash, Devin Townsend, Gregg Bissonette, and online lessons open to the public donated by Steve Vai, Tommy Emmanuel, Stu Hamm, Bumblefoot, plus other unique and fulfilling opportunities to donate to Extraordinary Families are now available online at https://www.jamathon.org/donate
Various items are still coming in so please watch this page.

The store, hosted by PledgeMusic, offers upcoming CD and vinyl volumes to-be-culled from the jamathon, limited edition “Jamathon Jammies”, VIP t-shirts, a dad-style baseball cap, and much more. Visit:  https://www.pledgemusic.com/projects/steve-vai-jamathon-2018

MARYSVILLE JAZZ & BLUES ANNOUNCE HEADLINERS 0

Some of Australia’s leading jazz and blues artists including The Black Sorrows with Joe Camilleri, Renee Geyer plus a huge lineup of top performers will take the stage at the 4th annual Marysville Jazz and
Blues Weekend.

With more than 40 artist performances, spread over 3 days the 2018 Marysville Jazz and Blues Weekend is sure to attract an even larger number of visitors than last year.

Last year more than 2,000 visitors came to soak up the jazz and blues atmosphere throughout Marysville’s cafes, restaurants and bars with many settling in for the weekend and longer to enjoy both the music and the sheer beauty of the Marysville region and the Yarra Ranges.

Only a 90 minute drive from Melbourne, via Healesville and through the spectacular tall trees of the Black Spur, Marysville offers a stunning backdrop for three days of jazz and blues in the “Mystic Mountains”.

The Marysville Jazz and Blues Weekend runs from Friday 19th to Sunday 21st October 2018. For ticket information, the line-up, accommodation and to learn more about Marysville and district, visit marysvillejazzandblues.com.au.

The 2018 Marysville Jazz and Blues Weekend is proudly supported by the Murrindindi Council

Australian Musician Reviews Melbourne International Guitar Night 0

Van Larkins

Australian Musician and the Melbourne Guitar Show in conjunction with the Australian production team behind the acclaimed music documentary Acoustic Uprising, supported by the Australian Music Association and NAMM launched the first Melbourne International Guitar Night last Wednesday night at the Toff in Town. Greg Phillips reports

The large opening night audience enjoyed wonderful performances from Janine Marshall, Van Larkins, Malcura, and Thomas Leeb. Marshall opened proceedings with a mix of originals and covers, owning the stage and displaying a command of her instrument. A highlight was her stunning version of The Doobie Brothers’ hit, What A Fool Believes with an inventive take on the song’s instrumental parts.

Brisbane based composer, Van Larkins opened his set bravely with a beautifully melodic, instrumental version of John Farnham’s You’re The Voice. Larkins, who heads to Nashville for performances next week, not only showcased his ample fingerstyle skills but also paraded his songwriting talent with fabulous versions of self-penned tunes such as Orion and Cold Fusion (See his performance below). Clearly Larkins was enjoying himself too, a vibe which was reflected back to him by the audience.

Melbourne based trio Malcura hit the stage next. Billed as ‘heavy flamenco’, it was more their gypsy flavours which really connected with the crowd. With Josh Voce on lead guitar and Steven Angell taking on more of a rhythm role, the huge sound this trio creates, really comes into full force once drummer and engine driver Simon Wood kicks in. Malcura is an emerging Melbourne act you don’t want to miss.

Californian based, Austrian-bred headliner Thomas Leeb finished up the evening with his amiable stage patter and an incredibly delicate touch on the fretboard. His mastery of harmonics tonight was something to treasure.

Many of the performers tonight including Larkins, Malcura and headliner Leeb played at The Melbourne Guitar Show and also toured together in a mini MIGN roadshow before this gig, so it’s not surprising there was a sense of bonding between the musicians. Show curator Drew Roller has done a fabulous job in putting together these shows with a mix of artists that really click. In one final encore, Leeb and Larkins came together off stage but in front of the crowd to perform a heartfelt farewell tune.

The grand plan for the Melbourne International Guitar Night is to become a leading destination for guitar music of all kinds in Australia and a place for international acts to come and perform. It will also be a great forum to foster and develop new guitar talent. Stay tuned for news on the next Melbourne International Guitar Night.

www.australianmusician.com.au

Albert Lee Interview at Melbourne Guitar Show 0

The Melbourne Guitar Show was honoured to present Albert Lee at our event on the weekend to kick off his Australian tour. Albert is not only one of the greatest guitarists in both rock and country music history, he’s also one of the nicest and most humble musicians you’ll ever meet. Included on Albert’s CV are performances and recordings with Eric Clapton, Emmy Lou Harris, Keith Urban, Tommy Emmanuel, Dave Edmunds, Willie Nelson, Bill Wyman, Carlene Carter, The Everly Brothers, Jackson Browne, Rosanne Cash, Bert Jansch, Herbie Mann, Keith Richards and Dolly Parton. Albert counts Eric Clapton as a good friend, a guy who once said of Albert, “He’s the greatest guitarist in the world. The ultimate virtuoso. His skill is extraordinary, his ear is extraordinary and he’s gifted on just about every level.”

Australian Musician editor Greg Phillips sat down for a quick chat with Albert after his wonderful Melbourne Guitar Show performance.

ALBERT LEE & BAND – LIVE IN AUSTRALIA, AUGUST 2018

Wed 8– Melbourne – Flem-Ken Bowling Club, Flemington
Thur 9 – Melbourne – Thornbury Theatre
Fri 10 – Meeniyan – Meeniyan Hall
Sat 11 – Adelaide – Adelaide Guitar Festival
Sun 12 – Perth – The Charles Hotel
Wed 15 – Blue Mountains NSW – Blue Mountains Theatre
Thur 16 – Canberra – The Basement
Fri 17– Sydney – Brass Monkey
Sat 18 – Sydney – Sydney Guitar Festival
Sun 19 – Sydney – Sydney Guitar Festival
Tues 21 – Newcastle – Lizotte’s
Wed 22 – Central Coast – The Art House in Wyong
Thur 23 – Brisbane – The Zoo
Fri 24 – Gold Coast – Sound Lounge
Sat 25 – Gympie – Gympie Muster

albertleeofficial.com

AUSTRALIAN TOUR TICKETS: https://davidroywilliams.com/tours/albert-lee/