Q&A: Waterline

Define your genre in five words or less:

Retro indie rock.

So, someone is walking past as you guys are playing, they then go get a beer and tell their friend about you... what do they say?

Let’s get more beer and go listen to these guys I just saw – they’ve really got something happening.

How long have you been gigging and writing?

WATERLINE is the culmination of about 25 years of playing and writing, but it’s only a bit over 12 months old.

What has been your favourite gig you’ve played to date?

Probably our first gig. There were plenty of rough edges but you could hear that the sound was gelling and had real power. For me, after several years playing solo and with a variety of lineups, it was a great feeling.

Which band would you most like to have a battle/showdown with?

Lubricated Goat /Neatly Folded Goat/any other band with the word 'goat' in it.

What inspires or has influenced your music the most?

The writing is most influenced by Australian music of late ‘70s - ‘80s, especially songwriters like Don Walker, Paul Kelly, Neil Murray and Mick Thomas. The playing additionally has elements of folk, reggae, and metal.

What do you think a band has to do these days to succeed?

You either have to be good writers, players, performers with a strong work ethic – or be in the right place at the right time.

Do you have any record releases to date? What? Where can I get it?

Your Town is WATERLINE’s debut CD. It will be available through myspace.com/waterlinetheband and at gigs.

Why should everyone come and see your band?

They shouldn’t – only people who like songs with words that mean something and that don’t have doof doof kick drum set at 140bpm. Judging from the radio that makes it just a select few.

When are you playing live/releasing your album/EP/single/etc?

Our new CD Your Town will be released on Friday March 16 at Bella Union Bar, Trades Hall Carlton, corner Lygon and Victoria Streets. Check it out.