Originally coming together last year after radio station KIIS 97.3 put together a group of teenagers to form 'the band that Brisbane built', Vegas Rayz are prepping for a run of shows throughout April with beatboxer Joel Turner.
After receiving mentoring from Adam Thompson (Chocolate Starfish), Sheppard, and Ella Hooper (Killing Heidi) who named the band, the five-piece rock group features Jess (lead vocals), Aria (keyboard, vocals), Mya (bass guitar), Ryan (lead guitar) and Marcus (drums).Ahead of the April shows, singer Jess shares her love of hiking with her five favourite hikes she has compleyed around the world.
"I've always loved walking in nature ever since I was little," Jess says. "We camped a lot growing up and so there came my love for exploring walking trails.
"I find hiking a great way to exercise, connect with friends and family and see some incredible views. So here are my top 5 favourite hikes."
1: The West Highland Way in Scotland
This is the most memorable hike I've ever been on. I hiked with my cousins for 6 days and we covered 154km. We wild camped with the sheep, drank from waterfalls and conquered the Devil's Staircase. The Scottish Highlands are so beautiful.
2: Ben Lomond in New Zealand
This is by far the most difficult hike I've done because the mountain is 1,750 metres high. The view is absolutely breathtaking – although it was hard I loved every moment. (Note to self: pack more water!)3: Wineglass Bay in Tasmania
I hiked to the stunning beach a few years ago with my family. You could only access the beach by hiking or by boat, which made it even more special. The water is crystal clear and the sand is white.4: Springbrook's Warrie Circuit in Queensland
This one is a local of mine in Queensland.The first time I hiked this track we got stuck in the dark as we took a detour and ended up hiking well over the original 12km we planned to do – wouldn't recommend hiking in the dark without proper equipment!
One special moment was when we ending up seeing glowworms right next to a waterfall.
5: Te Aroha Mountain in New Zealand
I have a beautiful friend who lives right in front of this mountain. I've hiked it a few times and even though it's a steep incline for over two hours and a good workout, the view from the top is so worth it.Vegas Rayz 2022 Tour Dates
Thu 14 Apr - Brothers Leagues Club (Ipswich)Sun 17 Apr - Twin Towns (Gold Coast)
Sun 24 Apr - The Triffid (Brisbane)
