The Dave Mann Collective

“Collective” is the operative word here because it truly describes the essence of the Dave Mann Collective. Dave- who personifies the dinky-di, ”favourite Aussie son”- has rounded up a melting pot of musicians who make up a collective “slice” of Australian culture. Banding together bass player, Roy Martinez with roots from 6 nations and a musical swag that encompasses a multitude of worldly influences, as well as Jade Masters, a drummer of indigenous lineage, bringing his tribal, rhythmic roots. In addition Tony Bourke brings his air of unabashed energy ..s, totally complementing the D.M.C. sound. Together they create a collective musical experience greater than the sum of the parts.DMC has supported artists such as Diesel, The Whitlam’s, Pete Murray, Cat Empire, Eric Bibb, Thirsty Merc, Jeff Lang and Lior. The DMC has also played major Australian festivals including the West Coast Blues And Roots Festival, Port Fairy Folk Festival, Fairbridge Festival, Blues at Bridgetown, Folk Rhythm & Life and Peat’s Ridge Festivals to name a few.As front man of the DMC, Dave commands a striking stage presence; not only for his towering stature, but moreover for his impressive dynamism. He can morph from his laid-back folk crooner persona - with a voice that melts into musical nirvana- to the energetic burst of the iconic pub-rock front man, belting out an impassioned cry as if his life depends on it! (…And it does!). Coupled with his battle-scarred acoustic guitar as his weapon–of-choice, Dave delivers his bittersweet songs with just as much sheer musical virtuosity as red-raw emotive spontaneity. The songs themselves are artistic gems in the tradition of the timeless classics: strong, memorable hooks; heart-felt, profound lyrics that depict Dave’s autobiographical take on life. From the uniquely poetic view of the everyday, thru to the weighty narrative of social/political issues, spanning the length & depth of his much-loved land which he constantly traverses. From the intensely personal, heart-on-his-sleeves confessionals to affairs of the heart that we can all relate to. No matter what format, Dave is highly individual in his expression… in every aspect, one can feel the ache, the elation and the passion of his beliefs all presented by a seasoned well-traveled artist whose style still remains fresh & constantly evolving, yet instantly recognizable. There is always a resonance of familiarity- with soaring melodies channeled from the musical “ether” and then set in stone. But crafted expertly like true artisans into sometimes organic, less-is-more understatements to epic, orchestrated sounds capes… from classic 3-minute pop anthems to the odd experimental seed that turns into a no-holes-barred roller-coaster jam! The band plays with a fervor & intensity that is characteristic to the D.M.C. style- seasoned musicians on top of their craft. The live show truly depicts the dynamic range of the band’s talents… diverse yet characteristically their own.
Fasterlouder.com.au
"(Dave Mann Collective) took over the whole stage with keys, guitar, harmonica, drums, lead and accompany vocals with tamborine and sticks. I was fully transported to another place."
Xpress Magazine
"Dave Mann Collective a three-piece currently high on the hot list of emerging musical talent in WA is carving its own niche in the ever-strengthening roots/rock movement with a typically classic delicate one-minute, ballsy-the-next musical feel."
Perthsounds Ezine
"Dave Mann Collective has to be one of the most promising acts in the country. Great voice, some tasty guitar playing and most of all some nice tunes."
Volume Magazine
"Where these three guys found their special little brand of magic I dont know, but its there. I hope it stays."

Dave Mann Collective - Reach Out

Dave Mann solo - We'll Be Fine

Dave Mann solo - Alysha Sky