The inspiration in this project came from the messy, unpredictable, and profound reality of being an artist, and understanding the power of music to connect, and bring joy.
I started this project in response to the extreme polarity between indifference and catharsis audiences have when I play music at pubs or clubs around Sydney. Some people are so grateful for my presence, and the songs I choose, whilst others barely look up. This journey has taken me far and wide across Sydney, and I have seen cultural differences and attitudes towards music between neighbouring suburbs. I always hear the same response: "The 80s pub music scene in Sydney was amazing", you should've been there etc." As someone lives down the road from what would have been Sweethearts in Cabramatta, the idea of a pulsing night scene, and live bands down the road from me is unfathomable. The cost of living, and introduction of poker machines has lead to the decline of live music in pubs and clubs around Sydney, with business' opting for family restaurants and gambling services that allow them to reap millions of dollars off consumers to pay their bills. The evolution of live music culture, especially in an age where Australia's Glastonbury "Splendour in the Grass" has been shut down. Australia's music culture, although fertile with talent, is in decline. Do men have positive role models? Dave Grohl cheated on his wife! These are all themes and ideas I want to pin-point through the eyes of the pub cover musician. There will be singa-longs. There won't be Wonder Wall.
