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Little Bushman: The Onus of Sand |
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Little Bushman is the new band led by a man fast becoming a NZ musical hero to many, Warren Maxwell.
From his time in one of NZ's biggest indie bands Fat Freddy's Drop, to his stint as frontman of one of our
countries most dearly held underground groups, Trinity Roots, Maxwell has made his musical presence
keenly felt. His heartfelt songs, direct way with a lyrical phrase & down-to-earth everyman nature have
struck to the heart of many NZers, so his popularity among our recognised musical heroes -
Dave Dobbyn, Neil Finn, Bic Runga - should come as no surprise; while his onstage persona
alone has been enough to convert hundreds of loyal listeners.
The Onus Sand is the debut album from his new group, a 4-piece band capable of conjuring up the spirit of the famed
psychedelic blues & rock players, while also stretching out & exploring a unique NZ take on
rock. It's a self-proclaimed journey into music influenced by the psychedelic
rock era of the'60s & '70s, yet the sounds seem deeply rooted in the here & now.The Onus
of Sand is a powerful album packed with touching songs.
Little Bushman are made up of Maxwell [vocals & keys], Tom Callwood [double bass & violin], Joe Callwood [guitar] &
Rick Cranson [drums], with The Onus Of Sand also boasting the talents
of Carolyn Mills [harp] & backing vocals from Lisa Tomlins [Rhombus, Fat Freddy's Drop]
& Deva Mahal [Fat Freddy's Drop].
"I think that when we are engaged in our music, whether it be in the studio or performing live, our first
concern is the dynamic direction of the song. 'Where is it going to peak? Where will the quietest point
be? Draw the audience in here... blow them out there.' We collectively try to create a journey without
sounding contrived & have made a conscious decision to use influences from the experimental,
psychedelic rock era of the '60s & 70s: Led Zep, Jimi Hendrix, The Who. It is inside their poignant
creations that we find the perfect balance of social concern & a "no fear" form of expressionism. Love,
hate, turmoil, moonbeams, politics, family, Pegasus & the universe. All of the above,with the lights
off. Unashamed self-indulgence resulting in sated emotional exhaustion... beautiful." Warren Maxwell
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