With the release of their sophomore EP, 'Hounds', last week, and a Wednesday residency throughout May at The Workers Club in Melbourne, folksters Forest Falls have plenty to smile about.
Here they list their Top 5 Australian folk musicians/ bands.
Paul Kelly
Paul Kelly is a raconteur, a charismatic frontman and an ambassador for Australian music. He and his band are such a solid, live act and their longevity, in an industry typified by fleeting fame and success, gives us hope! They seem to be relentlessly gigging too; everyone in the band has seen him live at a festival if not his own show. His authenticity and honesty in performance and songwriting sets him apart. Paul Kelly and Forest Falls also have a mutual interest in saxophone. [Ed's note: brilliant news!]The Paper Kites
Jon has had more of an insight into The Paper Kites as he's a close friend of Sam Rassmussen. The way they run their band, their attitude and work ethic is something we try to emulate. They've played some incredible shows and have been really smart in the way they've ventured overseas to visit a foreign fan base. They're killing it.The Middle East
We have to preface this one by saying we're heart broken that they split up. The EP 'The Recordings Of The Middle East' was untouchable. Their use of space, different instruments (the glockenspiel in 'Blood!') and their distinctive voices are all so good. We feel like they had the ability to seamlessly weave those ear-worm hooks and melodies into their beautiful and undoubtedly unique tunes.Husky
Husky is wicked. The band is great live too and it’s obvious they’re all geniuses on their respective instruments. When Gideon Preiss on keys is given the spotlight, his musicianship and tasteful playing is really inspiring. The lead singer, Husky Gawenda, has also been a great inspiration and was super candid with us after we supported them at The Espy recently. He gave us great feedback and was totally grounded despite his success.Paul Dempsey
Paul Dempsey is a versatile performer/ producer: whether he's fronting Something For Kate, full band or solo, originals or covers, you never watch a performance of his and think it lacks something. The reason he can get away with a stripped-back sound is because he's such an intelligent songwriter and is so engaging. He played every instrument for the recording of his solo album, 'Everything Is True', which is out of control! He's a huge supporter of the Melbourne music scene regardless of the size of the act. Finally, the love story of he and his fellow band member – now wife – Stephanie Ashworth, is the greatest, music romance in Australia. Someone needs to make a movie about them.Forest Falls Tour Dates
Sun 10 May - Workers Club (Geelong)Wed 13 May - Workers Club (Melbourne)
Thu 14 May - Bondi Bowling Club (Sydney)
Sat 16 May - Gaelic Club (Sydney)
Wed 20 May - Workers Club (Melbourne)
Wed 27 May - Workers Club (Melbourne)
