The Groovesmiths

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The Groovesmiths
The Groovesmiths performing at Curtin University in August, 2007.
The Groovesmiths performing at Curtin University in August, 2007.
Background information
Origin Flag of Australia Darwin, Northern Territory
Genre(s) Roots
Years active 2004–present
Label(s) Independent
Website http://www.myspace.com/thegroovesmiths
Members
Gavin Shoesmith
Alex Dew
Matthew Wright

The Groovesmiths are an Australian roots-music band, founded by Gavin Shoesmith, ex bass player of John Butler Trio. Originally located in Darwin, Northern Territory, Gavin has since shifted to Fremantle, Western Australia, where he plays regularly in the band alongside guitarist Alex Dew, and drummer Matthew Wright. The band is recognized for its unique style and awe inspiring live performances, blending strong elements of Reggae, Jazz, and Hip-Hop into traditional Blues and Roots music.

The Groovesmiths released a debut EP entitled Demonstrations Of Intent in 2006, featuring guests John Butler and Saritah. The band is currently performing regularly around Perth.

Contents

[edit] Style and songwriting

Rockus Online Magazine had the following to say in a review of Demonstrations Of Intent:

The hallmarks of roots music are all there; inflections of ska and reggae, acoustic percussion, steel & slide guitars, and lyrical content much in the vein of social awareness. The slight twist here, however, is that the rhythm and beat of the music sits much more in the area of hip-hop than blues or rock.

The instrumental side of things is top notch. Guest appearances from West Australian roots-stalwart John Butler on Bushranger, and local diva Saritah on Lonely, certainly add flavor to the recipe.

[edit] Demonstrations Of Intent

Demonstrations Of Intent EP cover (2006)
Demonstrations Of Intent EP cover (2006)

The band's debut EP features 5 original songs, written by Gavin Shoesmith.

  1. "Bushranger" – 3:51
  2. "Lonely" – 4:05
  3. "Rebirth" – 5:04
  4. "Viva La Revolution" – 3:33
  5. "Oh The Sun Is Shining" – 4:35

The EP features performances from previous band-members Michael Boase (Drums) and Jesse Moore (Guitar), as well as John Butler (Lap-steel Guitar), Saritah (Vocals), Mark Robinson (Didgeridoo), and Francis Diatschenko (Guitar),

[edit] Further reading

[edit] Online articles