Highlight for 2011?
Releasing our debut album and getting a great response from friends, fans, radio and reviewers; touring with Amanda Palmer; Saint Clare's great stage outfits; the ever growing Melbourne music scene; the family at the Vanguard in Sydney who always make us feel welcome
How will the band end the year?
The last Tin Star show for the year will be playing the AWME showcase at the Toff in Melbourne. The Toff is a great venue, and we'll have Saint Clare with us, so this should go off with a bang. Then I have touring commitments with my other group The Black Sea Gentlemen.
Do you/or the band have a New Year's resolution?
I don't know what the rest of the band are planning for their new year's resolution, but my plan is to become uber-fit. I need some discipline in my life dammit!
Favourite gig from 2011?
So many great shows, I must say that Changing Lanes festival in Sydney was fantastic, the Gaelic Club is like a gladitorial pit! Also, an impromtu rendition of Jailbreak at a festival at Maitland Gaol last weekend was a definite highlight - it's one of my favourite rock songs, and playing it behind bars was brilliant.
What will the band be up to in the New Year?
Laughing Outlaw will be releasing 'The Surf 'n' Western Sounds on vinyl, the very thought of this gets me excited. We'll release some extra download tracks to co-incide with the vinyl release. Also, we'll get underway with recording our next album, there are plenty of songs in waiting, so it'll be good to sink our teeth into it.
Favourite band from 2011?
The ReChords - Melbourne's finest three piece consisting of doublebass, acoustic and electric guitar and fab three part harmonies, a bit hillbilly, a bit western swing, a bit rock'n'roll and a whole lot of good times. These boys also know how to dress snappily and sport some fine quiff action.
Which band should we look out for in 2012?
The Toot Toot Toots - another great original Melbourne band, two drummers, honkin' brass, shimmying go-go girls and a singer with the best growl this side of Tom Waits. The Toots have really forged their own sound and promise that their debut album will be a spaghetti western rock opera - bring it on!
How would you sum up 2011?
2011 felt like mining underground, putting in endless hours toiling in the dark breaking our backs, but when you strike gold you know it's all worth it
