Not every town can claim an alternative rock band, but Batemans Bay can boast its very own in The Spindrift Saga.
With a new single recently hitting the streets and the band embarking on its latest tour of Australia’s East Coast, the Spindrift lads are living proof of the rewards that can come from persevering in a tough industry.
The band’s latest single, Musical Theme, from their debut album Badnormous, gives listeners a taste of some of the challenges of ‘making it’ in a regional town.
Drummer Danny Freeman said the track emerged from the frustrations faced when the band first formed.
“Seven years ago when we had a rehearsal, the hardest thing was to keep the band together long enough to have success,” Freeman told the Bay Post/Moruya Examiner.
“It’s definitely not easy in a small town; we do a hell of a lot of travelling. It has been a big commitment.
“Musical Theme is a track that is about trying your hardest in a small town and not seeing too many opportunities and not seeing too much light at the end of the tunnel.”
Freeman said one of the keys to The Spindrift Saga’s success came from staying true to the music they grew up being inspired by.
I think we’ve stuck very true to what we wanted to do and think about the music first.
- Danny Freeman
“I think we’ve stuck very true to what we wanted to do and think about the music first,” he said.
“We’ve never written about stuff that doesn’t come naturally.”
As the director of music at St Peter’s Anglican College, Freeman it was essential to share the sometimes harsh realities of the industry with local students.
“I try to teach the kids a lot about the industry, it’s something I’m very passionate about,” he said.
“In a creative field like music, if you’re not inspiring and imparting that kind of knowledge, then you’re probably not doing your job properly.
“My advice would be to make sure that whatever you’re doing, you’re genuinely passionate about and get with people who are like-minded.
While 2017 may only be three months in, the year is shaping up to be a big one for Freeman, along with vocalist Chris McGrath, guitarist Mick McGrath and bassist Dave Tweedie.
Their latest tour will see them hit the stage and support The Living End, Thirsty Merc and Caravana Sun.
In July, the band will set about its first international tour, jetting off to Japan for a series Tokyo shows.
SPINDRIFT SAGA IN CONCERT: March 24, Moruya Waterfront Hotel. From 6pm.
