It can take being away from home, long hours spent in transit, a lack of sleep, and language barriers to make you realise how good our lives are in Australia
Riding the highs and lows of touring, Caravãna Sun, you could say, had a big 2014. They were just back from gruelling European tours, had a band member retire and replaced by the almighty Ken Allars, and the band are taking it all in their stride, finishing the year with a gig at the Hotel Brunswick.
Ant Beard is still catching his breath from the whirlwind that was 2014.
‘It’s been a pretty amazing year – it was our third trip to Europe. It was full on but really nice. Although it’s great to be back here; we have such an appreciation and gratefulness for our country and how lucky we are.
‘We had a few amazing experiences,’ said Ant. ‘In Vienna we were supported by a band from Austria with eight horns playing this authentic polka-styled music. When you get that really authentic music it’s incredible.’
Caravãna Sun could be from anywhere – their music traverses Spain, Greece, Mexico – anywhere the people really know how to party! ‘The reaction was awesome. Each country has its own culture of live music, from the Netherlands at outdoor festivals where they go crazy or in Austria where they are more reserved; the appreciation you get from people is awesome. The highlight was probably our last gig in Portugal at this tiny fishing village; we didn’t start till 4.30 in the morning! Even now online I think 80–90 per cent of the interest is coming from Portugal. It’s amazing to be here and have this huge market of people enjoying our music!’
Ant credits the magic of Caravãna Sun with the very natural way it all came together.
‘It all happened pretty organically and the actual band has been together for four years. It’s hard to underpin the chemistry. I could try and describe it in words but it’s hard. I think what comes through is that we have this respect for each other and the music. The four of us are walking in and dealing with other people’s energy so you have to stick together and look out for each other. I think you can see the respect and the love is a passed-around thing.’
The band are currently working on their third album.
‘We are in the process of getting all the songs together. In a way they are writing themselves. A lot are a bit more Australian themed, taking a look at what it means for us to be Australian after touring for four years, and focused on contacting and being part of these small communities.’
The band are particularly excited about playing Hotel Brunswick this New Years.
‘I am sure this has been a well said thing among musicians around Australia, but anyone who has the pleasure of gracing the stage at Brunswick would have to agree: the connection with the crowd is amazing. I am trying not to talk it up too much, but this is a New Years that is hard not to talk up! It’s going to be a great gig!’
At the Hotel Brunswick on New Years Eve with Pierce Brothers.
Doors open from 6pm and tix are $50.
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