Hello there, I’m Thomas and I’m in Broken Splendour. I’ve been relegated to the singing/songwriting duties but, so far I’m ok with that. We have a new EP which will be out on the 27th. Nothing too fancy but plenty of good twists and left turns. We’ll be launching it on Sat. Nov 10 at the Grace Darling. I’m expecting everyone to be there.
How does the Melbourne music scene differ from the music scene in Austin?
Well they’re similar in that venues just pop up. Lots of places to play. Austin is obviously quite a bit smaller but there is a similar feel. Everyone seems to think that Austin is the place to be and in some aspects it is but I think Melbourne has just as much to offer in the way of opportunity. If you’re good it doesn’t matter how far your island is from everything else.
What are your favourite US and Australian venues?
When I go to Austin I usually try to play the Saxon Pub. I’ve always thought it’s the best acoustic venue in Austin. Whether full band or solo. When I lived in Ghengis Kahn in LA similar thing. I used to do lots of gigs at the Empress here in town. Something about it. My very first gig here was at the Cornish Arms.
Where and who did you record your forthcoming debut EP with?
I worked with a producer named Tony Salter at his studio in St. Kilda. T-Bone Tunes. He and I chose 5 songs of the 10 I presented to him and went from there. We got carried away at times but I think it captures what I was going for.
Why did you decide to relocate to Australia in 2008?
I came here for gigs several years back and it became extended several times and figured staying around wasn’t such a bad idea. Melbourne is a great city. Laid back compared to the states in many ways. Some people say too much so but keeping up with your direction helps.
What’s your earliest memory of performing and who inspired you to start?
When I was in mid teens I was in a cover band doing dance halls in small town Texas. Rock stuff of the day. Some pretty heavy. Things have changed.
You must answer this question honestly. What and where was the first gig you went to?
Judas Priest. Houston, TX. My mom drove me to the gig with my brother and a couple others. Really great show.
What local artists are you currently diggin’?
I’m still listening to First Aid Kit. A great album from start to finish. The National are up there for me. High Violet is the best album in years. Wilco, the list goes on.
In this digital world, how do you go about finding new music?
I have to be honest I don’t seek out new music online. I don’t know why I just haven’t been drawn to sitting at the computer for that. I still go to sites like Pitchfork, etc to see what’s happening. Word of mouth really.
If you could curate your own festival, where would it be, who would be on the bill, how many people would you let in and what features would it have?
I lived on the Mornington Peninsula for a while and there are some little fests but I think somewhere down there with really good coffee and wine booths with 3-4 stages. I would bring The National, Wilco, Radiohead, Cat Power, First Aid Kit and Broken Splendour (headlining act). Heaps of others.
Because it’s more fun to do things together, living artist from anywhere in the world, would you most like to collaborate with? Tell us why?
I’ve always wanted to write a song with Jeff Tweedy (Wilco). Have always been in to their thing. Simple but interesting music. Of course, Bob Dylan.
What is your band’s music the best soundtrack for?
Some full on romance I suppose.
Where we can see you play next, what releases do you have available and where can we get them?
Saturday Nov 10 @ The Grace Darling for our Launch.
Saturday Nov 24 @ Horvats Winery (solo)
Saturday Dec 1 @ Pure Pop Records in St Kilda
The EP will be avail at all the usual online spots and you can also email [email protected] for maybe a better deal!!
