The reason behind The Gadflys’ long-awaited return to the stage
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30.10.2019

The reason behind The Gadflys’ long-awaited return to the stage

It’s been 19 years since we’ve heard new music from The Gadflys. What has inspired your return?

When we last recorded, it was the last work with our dear friend and double bass player Andy Lewis. There was no planned stop but Phil (Moriarty) and I were working on other things; him with The Black Sea Gentleman and me (Mick Moriarty) with GUD. Throw into the mix two children and Phil’s recent near-death experience and we were itching to try some new material. Pete, Elmo, Bernie, Kathryn and Gemma all played in the band at various stages, so we had the right people and the time was right.

For those not acquainted with the band, how would you describe The Gadflys in under 40 words?

Tribal rhythms, doghouse bass, whiskey vocals, growls and howls, lugubrious clarinet figures, violin, bluegrass notions – T. Rex on Alligator Wine. Mongrel Jazz, that’s what Mick Moriarty calls it! Guitar licks, pop music tricks – Bo Diddley and Gene Krupa sitting in with The Pogues.

Tell us about your new single, ‘Deborah’. What is the story behind it?

The new single is a homage to the fabulous Debbie Harry. I hope to send it to her as a birthday present. She’s someone I admire from afar.

What about your new album, Love & Despair? What can we expect from this?

The new album comes from a few angles; there’s some classic Gadfly sounds, from moody bass blues to surf rock, life on the road and life and love lost.

The Gadflys come to Castlemaine’s Theatre Royal on Saturday December 14 and The Spotted Mallard on Sunday December 15. Grab your tickets via the respective venue websites.