We caught up with the lead singer of the Australian based band Winston Surfshirt to talk about their new album, how they spend their down time, their summer highlights and what’s next for 2017.
How did you guys meet?
I met the boys sporadically – some through school, and others just from the area we live in.
Who inspires you musically?
Apart from The Beatles… uhm lots Bowie, Etta, Al Green, Ma Dud.
Name three artists you had on your playlist growing up…
Craig David, Michael Jackson, Spice Girls. Standard.
Can you guys describe your sound?
Words on Music.
Who in the group takes themselves too seriously and who is the class clown?
No one takes themselves too seriously, we’re all clowns really.
Where was your first ever gig and how did it go?
I played in a little bar called Pony Room in Manly about 6 years ago. To a room full of me dad, sister and Chrissy B.
You’ve just released your debut album Sponge Cake! How excited and proud are you guys of its release?
So excited feels weird but couldn’t be prouder, just glad it’s out now!
Can you tell us the thinking & meaning behind the name Sponge Cake?
I’ve always released things ‘independently’ as deserts. My granddad used to make the most banging Apple & Rhubarb Crumble, so it stems from that! Will have to wait to see what desert will be next…
Can you tell us of some funny stories of recording your album?
No. No I can not.
What’s the biggest difficulty you faced recording the album?
None really, easy breezy. Recorded over like 3 years just from home and in little studios.
Which song do you enjoy most to play live?
Uhm hard to say, depends on the crowd reaction, but I do love playing BAY. Apart from that Project Redo is really enjoyable live!
When’s the album tour?
Starts November in Aus, then we’ll playing Falls Festival & Field Day across Australia.
If you could collaborate with any other artists, past or present, who would it be?
John Lennon
What’s been your biggest career highlight so far?
Probably meeting Elton John… Probably.. Haha maybe definitely.
Apart from your own songs, what have you got on repeat at the moment?
Anita – Smino
What’s your guilty pleasure track that nobody else knows you love?
Anything by M People.
What’s been your summer highlight of 2017?
My summer was spent in Aus so I had winter while you had summer. We just about to have ours. Game set match.
How do you spend your time out of the studio and when you’re not performing?
In my room just making beats.
Favourite film/TV series?
Life of Brian.
Drink of choice on a night out?
Samson Sammers Sammy B (Sambucca.)
Can you explain your fashion sense?
T-shirt, trousers, shoes n hair.
How would you describe your style?
Groovy baby.
Describe yourselves in three words?
I can’t though.
What advice do you have your any aspiring musicians and bands?
Enjoy it first and foremost.
