Mixing and matching genres can be risky but that’s exactly what sets psychedelic quartet Redcoats apart and has audiences coming back for more.
“It’s an ever-evolving sound. At the base of it all we have similar inspiration from all '60s and '70s classic rock. Music from that era is very exciting because it hasn’t been prodded and pushed to any sort of limit yet,” vocalist Emilio Mercuri explains.
The band’s individuality, experimental approach and consistent work ethic landed them supporting such acts as Grinspoon, Papa Vs Pretty, Calling All Cars and Karnivool.
“We are honoured to be able to do that. In Australia there’s definitely a circuit, with many mature bands so we’ve learnt to operate like sponges and absorb as much as we can.”
As Redcoats released their self-titled debut album this month, Emilio reveals their approach to song writing was slightly unconventional but essential. The band decided to isolate themselves by bunkering up at the foot of the Grampians.
“We didn’t have a comparison obviously so as a first experiment it had its ups and downs and challenges like everything. We take enough from one another to be completely enthused in the environment, without the distraction of day to day monotony, where we can just let everything flow.”
Like many bands that stray from the norm, Redcoats have had their fair share of hecklers during live shows. For them it seems to be related to their eccentric, ‘hippie’ image with odd audience members chirping ‘Get a haircut’ or ‘Save the Whales’.
“It’s happened a couple of times and we find it funny. It’s a good test of character and if you can pass that test in the early days, which I think we have, then it puts you in a good stage for the rest of the world.”
The secret method keeping Redcoats focused and always pumped before a show lies behind one of their many mantras. “Our drummer likes to get us all in a little huddle before we go on stage and he says a little prayer to Miles Davis," Emilio reveals. “We ask for his blessing before we go on stage. Sometimes Miles spits in our face and offers us a shit show but sometimes he offers the best show we’ve ever had. It always eliminates any sort of nerves, places us back on stable ground.”
Redcoats Tour Dates
Thu Nov 8 — Karova Lounge (Ballarat)Fri Nov 9 — The Bended Elbow (Geelong)
Sat Nov 10 — Ding Dong Lounge (Melbourne)
Thu Nov 15 — Star Bar (Bendigo)
Fri Nov 16 — Whalers Hotel (Warrnambool)
Sat Nov 17 — Jive Bar (Adelaide)
Thu Nov 22 — Alhambra Lounge (Brisbane)
Fri Nov 23 — Great Northern Hotel (Byron Bay)
Sat Nov 24 — Spotted Cow (Toowoomba)
Thu Nov 29 — Great Northern Hotel (Newcastle)
Fri Nov 30 — Annandale Hotel (Sydney)
Sat Dec 1 — Transit Bar (Canberra)
Mon Dec 31 — Pyramid Rock Festival (Phillip Island)
