What’s the band name and what do you ‘do’ in the band? I’m Joshua Batten, lead vocalist and guitarist. I’m about to release a solo album, and my band is called Batten Down.
What do you reckon people will say you sound like? Deep Purple, Jimi Hendrix, Jack White and Rival Sons with hints of Rush, Joe Bonamassa and Jethro Tull.
What do you love about making music? The escape it provides from the stress of social and political turmoil.
What do you hate about the music industry? The lack of effort from artists to use their microphones to ‘say something’ and their inability to make young kids want to explore music further.
If you could travel back in time and show one of your musical heroes your stuff, who would it be and why? Thankfully most of my musical heroes are still alive, and I don’t need their approval. Still, it would be great to work with Joe Bonamassa.
What can a punter expect from your live show? A high energy blues jam with powerful vocals, hard-hitting lyrics and very loud guitars.
What’ve you got to sell CD-wise? My debut album Searching For Answers will be available physically and online from Friday March 17.
Anything else to add? Make Australia Rock Again.
