Emerging folk rock band, benjalu have already received more recognition in their short musical career, way above their expectations.
Despite only playing together since March 2006, benjalu have impressed music aficionados across Australia, winning numerous awards for their original music and their warm live shows. In 2006 the band took out the annual YouthRock awards: they were also named by MUSICOZ as one of the top 10 School bands within Australia: and they took out the prestigious TAFE Newcastle Music Week award for the Open School Section.
benjalu’s radio – friendly tracks were further honoured at YouthRock awards, when the band were given an additional award by fellow Novocastrians Silverchair, recognising their strong and original song-writing talents. These songs have also caught the ear of local commercial radio station 105.3 NewFM who has taken the band up and down the coast where the band played as one of the featured acts at The Australian Body boarding Championships at Dreamworld QLD.
The band has also featured at festivals Strike-back and High Voltage, sharing the stage with bands such as True Live, The Beautiful Girls, The Sleepy Jackson and Josh Pyke. Another highlight includes hitting the stage at the Sydney Royal Easter Show in both 2007 and 2008. Support slots including Kate Miller-Heidke, Jon Stevens, James Reyne, Dann Hume (Evermore), Rogerthat and Paul Greene along with the a regional tour with MUSICOZ winners Solver, benjalu are making the most of the excitement surrounding them, whilst keeping very busy on the road.
Inspired by a life on the waves and a sleepy little coastal existence, benjalu’s tunes draw influence from many diverse styles, such as early jazz and blues, roots and today’s modern acoustic contemporary musicians. Their sound is full and lush, with warm songs to keep by your heart and take you through life’s journeys.
After an overwhelming response at their EP Launch December 2007 (The Brewery, Newcastle), benjalu are looking forward to taking their music around Australia, and capitalising on the interest that has already grown in their local scene.
Band Members
Ben ‘Gumby’ Gumbleton – Acoustic Guitar & vox
Luke Elsley – Guitar, Harmonica & Backup vox
Anthony Morris – Bass Guitar, Clarinet & Backup vox
Brett Foreman – Drums
This profile was edited with mywickedspace.com Editor
