Woopi News Gig Guide

Marky Power

 The Beat Behind the Bass

If you’ve been anywhere near a stage, sound system, or dance floor in the last few decades, chances are you’ve felt the vibrations of Marky Power. The Emerald Beach local is one of those multi-talented ‘do-stuff’ guys whose passion for music runs deep – from spinning decks to building beats, from open mics to international tours.

Marky’s journey through the Australian music scene has been anything but ordinary. With a career spanning more than 35 years, he’s worn just about every musical hat imaginable – radio host, bass player, audio engineer, band leader, tour manager, dub engineer, and DJ. He co-founded the Byron Bay Reggae Club back in 1998, a landmark that helped define Australia’s coastal reggae sound.

With a natural ear for deep grooves and authentic analogue dubs, Marky has helped shape the sonic landscape of reggae both here and abroad. His skill in sound engineering and production has seen him collaborate with artists from across Australia, New Zealand, the U.S., Canada, India, and Asia – crafting distinctive dubs, remixes, and bass lines that linger long after the show is over.

The Sunny Coast Rude Boys put it best:

“Marky Power has done a fantastic job making a proper spicy dub version for some stems I sent over. He has a natural flair for this genre and a great understanding of exactly what I was after. 100 percent recommend!” - Mick Hughes, Sunny Coast Rude Boys.

When he’s not touring with his major act Jesse Morris and The Shakedown, Marky is keeping the local scene alive. He runs the Open Mic Nights at Moonee Beach Hotel on the first Wednesday of every month, creating a supportive space for budding and seasoned musicians alike.

For the past eight months, Marky has also run a weekly hospitality night and reggae session at Stef & Co in Coffs Harbour – a much-loved gathering for locals and music lovers. That event has recently evolved into a monthly showcase, rebranded as ‘Easy Skanking’, bringing the same good vibes and soulful rhythm but on a bigger, more curated scale. With his knack for blending reggae, dub, and drum and bass, Marky knows exactly how to get the crowd moving.

For Marky, it’s not just about the sound - it’s about the connection. He believes music has the power to bring people together, breaking down barriers and building bridges between generations, genres, and cultures.

As he puts it, “It’s all about unity in the community – everyone connected by the thread of music.”

That philosophy runs through everything he does – from mentoring new artists and mixing in the studio, to performing live and promoting local gigs. His love for reggae, rhythm, and community spirit continues to make a lasting impact on the Coffs Coast music scene.

And yes, you’ll spot him easily – long dreadlocks, silver chains, and that unmistakable smile of a man who’s exactly where he’s meant to be: behind the decks, riding the rhythm, and keeping Woopi’s reggae soul alive.

The next Easy Skanking gig is at Stef n Co on Friday November 21 – Hopefully we’ll see you there.

~ Brad Nelson

Loose Unit

 A Blues Supergroup Born for Blues & Berries

This year’s Blues & Berries Festival on Sunday, November 2 is about to get a major dose of rhythm, soul and firepower with the debut of Loose Unit – a brand-new band formed especially for the occasion.

Loose Unit isn’t just another festival act. It’s a powerhouse collaboration of six accomplished musicians, each with decades of experience on stage, who have come together with one goal: to celebrate the blues in all its grit, groove and glory.

Between them, they draw on influences from the smoky clubs of Chicago, the deep soul of New Orleans, the grit of Detroit, and the raw electricity of Texan blues. The result? A sound that feels both timeless and fresh – music that makes your feet tap, your heart race, and your soul sing.

At the helm is Kim Michelsen, whose fiery lead guitar and vocals cut through the mix with a style reminiscent of legends like Gary Moore and Joe Bonamassa. His soulful phrasing, combined with an unmistakable energy, keeps the band sounding modern while staying true to blues tradition.

Alongside him, Rob Carroll enriches every song with the distinctive tone of the Hammond organ and the shimmer of the electric piano, adding swells and textures that bring depth and colour to the music.

On harmonica, Steve Bailey is a force to be reckoned with. Known for his ability to weave sweet, melodic lines one moment and deliver raw, dirty riffs the next, Bailey is as much a storyteller as he is a musician. His stage presence is electric – a natural showman who sparks the energy that ignites the crowd.

No blues band is complete without a driving rhythm section, and Loose Unit’s is second to none. Garry Byrne brings the swing, shuffle and punch with his dynamic drumming, delivering the heartbeat that keeps audiences moving from the first beat to the last encore. Beside him, Gary Piper lays down rock-solid bass grooves, locking in with the drums to create a tight, reliable foundation while complementing the lead instruments with flair.

To top it all off, Ben Hollist steps in as a guest vocalist. His powerful, soulful delivery gives Loose Unit an extra edge, belting out blues classics and new takes with the kind of spotlight-worthy performance that leaves audiences wanting more.

And while the talent is undeniable, the band themselves put it best: “Basically, we are just a bunch of (old) local musicians who want to display the depth of talent that Woopi has, particularly in the blues arena, by going toe-to-toe with top artists on the bill.”

What makes Loose Unit truly special is that this group has formed exclusively for the Blues & Berries Festival. It’s a collaboration born out of friendship, mutual respect and a shared passion for the blues. Their debut in Woolgoolga promises to be something unique – a rare chance to hear six musicians combine their talents to create a sound bigger than themselves.

So, when the sun is shining, the berries are sweet, and the blues are rolling across Woolgoolga Beach Reserve, make sure you’re there. Loose Unit will bring the house down – and leave no doubt why the blues is music that moves us all.

~ Brad Nelson

Temperate:

Coffs Coast’s Young Rising Rock Force

The Coffs Coast has always punched above its weight when it comes to producing great music – and now, a new band is turning the volume all the way up. Meet Temperate, the young rock force who are quickly carving out their place on the national stage.

With a sound that nods to classic Aussie rock but surges forward with a modern hard edge, Temperate deliver captivating female-led vocals, soaring riffs, and a live energy that grabs audiences by the shoulders and refuses to let go. Already compared to Wolfmother, Silverchair, and the Foo Fighters, the band is proving they’re not here to imitate —

they’re here to innovate.

The story of Temperate begins with five kindred spirits united by an untamed love of rock. “Through thunderous riffs, pounding rhythms, and raw energy, we found each other,” the band told Woopi News. “Temperate wasn’t just formed, it was born – to live, breathe, and spread the fire of rock wherever the road

takes us.”

The name Temperate reflects both balance and intensity, echoing the shifting moods of their music – calm and melodic one moment, explosive and storm-like the next. It’s also a tribute to their Coffs Coast roots, with its famously temperate climate.

Though influences from the greats can be heard, Temperate are clear that their biggest thrill is creating something uniquely their own. And if you haven’t seen them live yet, be warned – you’re in for a storm.

“It hits you like a wave,” they explained. “Our shows are raw, loud, and honest. We thrive on connection – turning every gig into an unforgettable energy exchange with the crowd. It’s not just a show, it’s the pulse of a new wave in Australian rock.”

That magnetic stage presence has already earned them slots alongside major acts including Pacific Avenue, Surf Trash, The Moving Stills, Tones and I, Rose Tattoo, Illy and Beddy Rays and has kept local crowds packing out venues to catch the ride.

Offstage, the band is just as relentless. They’re deep in production on a series of new music videos, and after dropping their debut EP in January, another release is already in the works for early next year.

Their creative adventures haven’t been without a little chaos, though. While filming a music video in an old paint factory in Brisbane, the crew began hearing strange screams echoing through the building just as guitarist Fin mysteriously disappeared. He returned minutes later, completely oblivious – and to this day, the band still can’t explain the eerie sounds.

On the lighter side, they’ve also invented their own touring game, Moshball – a cross between backyard footy and courtyard chaos – which has become a tradition wherever they travel.

At their core, Temperate’s mission is simple: to share the fire they feel through music with as many people as possible. “Music isn’t just sound to us,” they said. “It’s connection, emotion, and freedom. We want every crowd to feel it just as powerfully as we do.”

And their message to fans? “Crank up the volume – rock ’n’ roll is alive, loud, and absolutely electric! Come be part of the madness. Once we hit the stage, it’s a full-blown eruption of sound and energy. You won’t just hear it, you’ll experience it.”

Temperate aren’t slowing down anytime soon. You can catch them live here on the

Coffs Coast this month:

September 6 – Tidal Sounds Music Festival, Hoey Moey

September 20 – Supporting Pacific Avenue, Jetty Beach House, Coffs Harbour

With their fearless energy and authentic sound, Temperate are proving themselves to be more than a local act — they’re a rising force in Australian rock.

Local Duo, Boss Stomp 

After seeing these guys gigging recently at Mogul Beer, I decided that we all needed to find out a little more about them.

Boss Stomp is a name that has been getting around in the Coffs Coast music scene of late. They’re the northern beaches based duo with the funky looking posters and whacky social media videos, selling a live act with a stand-alone sound and style created by two big personalties come best-mates who fit together musically like a hand and a glove. Woopi locals might have seen them jamming down main beach on occasion, or caught one of their Moonee Beach Tavern Open Mic Night appearances earlier in the year. 

For those not familiar with their music, think Ash Grunwald, White Stripes and Cruel Sea vibes all rolled into one sound; edgy open tuned resonator guitars, kick-stomping beats, funky bass lines, and strong vocal prowess singing kooky songs that range from tales of true-life desert odysseys to robot girlfriends. It’s a two-man band comprised fun-loving jokers Skotty Fairclough and Greg Farr who also happen to be pretty serious musicians. 

That’s Boss in a nut shell, and there’s something people are liking about that formula as evidenced by their rise to prominence. Boss has made it from their first public appearances back in Jan-Feb playing at the Big Banana Sunset Sessions and Moonee Beach Tavern Open Mic nights, to now national radio play, industry recognition and a diary full of tour dates that’s got these two characters back on the road playing to the people. 

That’s right, ‘back on the road’, because Boss Stomp is not their first rodeo. In fact, the legend of Boss spans three decades, interstate collaborations, and a multitude of projects that have seen the pair sharing stages, highways and hotels, not forgetting to mention the equal measures of rehearsal rooms, practical jokes and after parties together. 

That unique brotherly bond began in their early teen years and is no more on display than when watching the modern version that is Boss Stomp live. The pair play like a couple of synchronised swimmers, completely at home on the stage as two creatives operating under the one moniker, whilst their debut Single ‘Blood and Stone’ demonstrates Boss Stomp’s capability of bottling that chemistry into attention-grabbing studio works. 

And that’s where this story ends for now; with Boss back in studio recording their debut record planned for a spring release, a growing audience and a run of dates already filling out. 

For sights, sounds, socials and where to catch the boys live, you can find everything Boss on 

Linktr.ee/bossstomp

Boss Stomp is playing live around the Coffs Coast, so keep an eye out for them on your gig guides. They will be back at Mogul Beer on Saturday, September 20.

~ Brad Nelson

 Isabella Nalder – 

Forging Her Way in the Music Scene

At the recent Coffs Coast Uncovered (aka Battle of the Bands) event at the Hoey Moey, the final performance of the night wasn’t just a closing act – it was a showstopper. With quiet confidence, striking poise and undeniable talent, local singer-songwriter Isabella Nalder – or Bella, as she’s known – took the stage and left the audience spellbound. She didn’t just sing. She connected.

Raised in Woolgoolga since preschool, Bella is a proud local. She attended St Francis Xavier Primary before going on to St John Paul College in Coffs Harbour, where music quickly emerged as her strongest subject – and her favourite. But it was a moment in Year 4 that would quietly set her life on a new path: a classroom music teacher handed her a ukulele. Something clicked. That tiny four-stringed instrument planted a creative seed that would grow into a lifelong passion.

Since then, Bella has taken music into her own hands – literally – teaching herself guitar and piano, developing her vocal style, and writing original songs that reflect her inner world.

With musical influences from artists like Amy Winehouse, Bella has embraced a raw, emotional style that resonates with authenticity. Like Winehouse, her lyrics aren’t afraid to explore the shadows of the human experience, but they do so with grace and a maturity well beyond her years.

Over the past few years, Bella has become a familiar face on the music circuit, performing at local venues including The Seaview Tavern, Woolgoolga Brewery, and The Hoey Moey, both as a solo artist and alongside her band, ‘The How Abouts’, which consists of a group of her close friends. Whether it’s an acoustic solo set or a full-band show, Bella brings the same magnetic presence and emotional depth to every performance.

On May 18, Bella reached a new milestone in her musical journey with the release of her debut single, Sanity. The track, which blends soft melodic lines with powerful lyrical introspection, has already made waves. One reviewer on Triple J Unearthed praised it as:

‘A sultry rendition about sanity that captures the heart. Isabella’s soulful voice weaves through emotion, painting a hauntingly beautiful picture of inner struggles and resilience. The delicate melody and powerful lyrics create an enchanting atmosphere. A true talent with a promising future in music.’

Bella says the songwriting process is one of her favourite parts of being a musician. Sometimes a song comes together in a single burst of inspiration; other times it unfolds slowly over time. But no matter how it happens, the joy is in the creation – and the connection that follows. “I’m happiest when I’m making music,” she says. “Especially when I get to do it with other musicians. The only hard part is when I can’t play.”

With more original material in the pipeline and a growing fanbase in the region, Bella is determined to keep following her dream. Her goal? To be a full-time musician – and to make music that matters.

She may still be at the beginning of her career, but if Sanity is any indication, Isabella Nalder is heading somewhere special. So keep an eye on your local gig guides – because this Woolgoolga-grown talent is definitely one to watch.

Sanity is available on all streaming platforms.

~ Brad Nelson

Local Blues Legend – Nathan Beretta

I’ve been hearing so many good things about our local blues legend lately, that I decided to reach out to discover a little more about him. This is what I found out.

Nathan was born and bred in Emerald Beach. His childhood was spent hanging out at Shelly Beach and building dirt bike jumps. His dad was an owner-builder who built three houses in Emerald Beach. His family rented homes in between builds, and lived in a total of six different dwellings in Emerald. When Nathan was 15 they moved to Safety Beach.

Nathan’s parents are huge music fans, so music has always been a part of his life and he loves it. At home, his parents played stuff like Frank Zappa, The Doobie Brothers, The Allman Brothers, Little Feat, B.B. King and lots of 70s soul music like Al Wilson and Boz Scaggs. 

His schooling started at Emerald Beach Preschool, then Sandy Beach Primary and finally Woolgoolga High School. Nathan studied music in high school. He ‘clicked’ with the music teacher, Mr Burgerlin, because they both had a love for the blues. He had no interest in the theory, he just wanted to play guitar and spent most lunch breaks and free periods in the music room.

Nathan moved out of home at 21 and, in his van, headed to Melbourne where he spent the next 10 years living his dream as a working musician.

Professionally, his instruments are guitar and vocals, but when he’s not working, he also enjoys playing drums for fun.

Nathan has played at many venues over the last 15 years. One highlight was Blues on Broadbeach with guitar hero Robben Ford watching from the side of the stage. He has shared the stage with his Aussie heroes, like Bondi Cigars, Ray Beadle, Frank Sultana, Rob Susz (Dynamic Hepnotics), Geoff Achison, Chris Wilson and many more. Nathan has played at just about every blues festival in Australia including; Woodford Folk Festival (QLD), Wangaratta Festival of Jazz and Blues (VIC), Mitchell Creek Rock ‘N’ Blues Fest (QLD), Blues at Bridgetown (WA), Echuca Moama Winter Blues Festival (VIC) and Blues on Broadbeach (QLD).

At the end of 2024 Nathan won the Sydney Blues Challenge and was sent to perform in Memphis Tennessee. He also performed in Clarksdale Mississippi with Frank Sultana and Dan Sullivan.

He told me he loves his gigs at local venues like the Seaview Tavern and Woopi Brewery because there is a strong community feel that you can’t get anywhere else!

Nathan’s main influences were all the great blues players from the 70s and 80s such as Albert Collins, Robert Cray, Freddie King, Albert King, Jimmie Vaughan and Buddy Guy.

He has written two albums with his own material and In 2024 he co-wrote another album with Dan Sullivan. All three albums actually hit number one on the Australian Blues and Roots Charts!

I asked Nathan about his songwriting techniques. He said, “When it comes to penning a song, I mainly run back through all the crazy situations I’ve put myself in over the years, and try to turn them into songs. I believe it’s very important to have lived what you’re singing about. Music is always an expression of human emotions.”

He enjoys the good times, the places he goes and people that he meets. Music has taken him to places he would never usually travel to. He has made a lot of life-long friends and created many good memories. Performing in new places keeps his life interesting and unpredictable. He said it’s not for everyone, but he loves it.

On the negative side Nathan dislikes missing out on family time and special events while he is touring. There can be difficulties trying to coordinate running a band and airlines can stress you out with their changing schedules. He finds it hard to eat healthily on the road.

He said, “There’s a lot of hard working musicians out there and they are doing it all on their own. We get paid for doing what we love but not many banks will approve a home-loan for a musician! In saying that we all do it for the love of music and the positives fully outweigh the negatives.”

Keep an eye out for Nathan Beretta. Although he performs all over the world, Nathan will be playing locally at The Seaview Tavern, on Sunday June 1, from 1.30pm – or catch him in the afternoon at the Emerald Beach Fair, on Saturday June 7.

~ Brad Nelson

‘Who’s Charlie’ Piano Vocal Duo

This talented duo covers 70s, 80s, 90s and current material. They are loud and proud and give an awesome rendition of so many favourite tunes.

Who’s Charlie has an advanced stage and sound set up, complete with a small, portable grand piano and keyboards. They strive to play the songs we all love to get into.

Mandy (Barnett) Dobney: Singer-Songwriter.

Mandy started her professional singing career at the age of 15 in Coffs Harbour/Grafton with bands called Doo Wah Diddy and Chiquee Babes. Leaving Coffs at age 22, she joined a 6-piece group called Electric travelling throughout Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia and Beijing for nine months. Her singing has taken her to further afield too, including Hong Kong, Thailand, Scotland, London and Japan at Hilton and Sheraton Hotels. Whilst in London, Mandy recorded backing vocals and a duet with Mickey Graham (from Boyzone) on his album. She met, wrote and recorded songs with many interesting people. Mandy entered UK’s hottest unsigned band with song ‘Big Trip’ in 2001 and won!

Mandy returned to Australia where she met her husband Michael and their journey began.

Michael Dobney: Piano-Keyboards-Singer-Songwriter-Production.

Michael has been playing piano since the age of seven, studying classical, jazz and numerous other styles. His professional life has been a very successful and versatile one, performing in numerous bands and acts, and extending into MC hosting, stage and theatre. Michael has held many residencies throughout Brisbane and the Gold Coast, including at Brisbane’s Treasury Casino for three years, five nights a week with Australia’s first Duelling Pianos. He then took his talents abroad with Mandy to Hong Kong and Japan which turned into 13 years performing in Hilton and Sheraton Hotels six nights a week.

Producing all of Who’s Charlie backing tracks with superb quality, he has moulded a solid sound…combined with his unique style as a pianist/vocalist.

I am always impressed when I see it all come together at one of their gigs. Keep an eye out for Who’s Charlie, they are playing all over the mid-north coast, including these local gigs at

Corindi Beach Hotel on May 3 from 8pm, and

The Seaview Tavern on June 27 from 8.30pm. 

~ Brad Nelson

New vocals for Hekyl & Jive

I recently caught up with Jess Wyborn at a Hekyl & Jive gig at Corindi Beach Hotel, and here is some of her story.

Jess was stoked to move to the Northern Beaches from Grafton as a teen – it had been one of her childhood dreams to live near the beach.

She studied her AMEB piano exams up to 6th grade in her youth and said that she wouldn’t have made it through them if her mum didn’t have a steady supply of chocolate on hand to bribe her to keep going. She said the exams were torturous, but she is so glad to have them under her belt as a solid foundation for understanding music.

As an infant she would wake up singing in the cot, so she has always had a musical inclination. Jessi studied for an Advanced Diploma of Performance and Composition in Grafton. She moved to Melbourne and helped build a music magazine called ‘Melbourne Guru’ which was for independent artists. This was a lot of fun because she had the opportunity to meet some amazing musicians and their support systems across the industry. She interviewed Prince’s keyboardist, ‘Dr Fink’, and she thought he was lovely and humble – a left of the middle thinker who described Prince as a very humble man.

Jess had the good fortune of singing in a choir at the Sydney Opera House, as well as at the opening ceremony of the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games.

Piano is her first love, but her talent goes beyond that. She played the alto saxophone, dabbles in guitar, and has an amazing singing voice. She wrote her first song at the age of 13, which focused on saving the environment. Other compositions include ‘Cornish Curse’, ‘Risky Business’ and ‘Trenches’ - some about heartbreak, others a catharsis for life’s suffering.

Jess played her first gig as a duo at the Amble Inn in 2008, and funnily enough, it seems like a full circle moment – she has now joined popular rock band, Hekyl & Jive as their lead singer with her first gig being at the Corindi Beach Hotel (formerly the Amble Inn)!

She is ecstatic about finally fulfilling a lifelong dream to perform in a full band rather than solo or duo. She is finding it exciting and is looking forward to learning what it takes to perform and be cohesive in a band environment. Eventually, she would like to perform and record her own music. She has written quite a few songs and feels like that dream is just around the corner from this one, but she wants to earn her gig stripes first.

She told me her musical influences include some classical greats like Tchaikovsky and Beethoven, and her modern loves include Linda Ronstadt, Paul Simon, Evanescence, Sia, Linkin Park, The Butterfly Effect, among so many others. Her tastes are eclectic – if she feels something within a song, she doesn’t care what genre it belongs to.

Jess shared with me her typical songwriting process; she hears (imagines) a melodic line, it hits her like a lightning bolt, with the rhythm as part of it. She has about 30 seconds to either sing it into her phone, or literally stop whatever it is that she’s doing and rush to the piano or a guitar to try and get enough of the idea out before it disappears for good.

Jess said, “I had an interesting moment writing the chorus of a song ‘Cornish Curse’. I’d been stuck on it for weeks and one day I was in the pocket and it just poured out of me. I remember watching my fingers dance across the keys, exhibiting skills I hadn’t learnt… at that moment I looked straight up into the sky and knew for sure that I was channelling it from somewhere else. I was just the vessel, birthing something creative from across the veil. A profound moment for me.”

Her music got her into some fun situations while she was travelling overseas. She scored free drinks for the night in a Danish bar where the girls taught her how to sing Rihanna’s ‘Umbrella’ in their language. She laughed at how weird it sounded.

She also sat in the middle of a Welsh pub and sang a bunch of songs to the patrons which landed her two nights free dinner and accommodation – another unforgettable night for her.

Jess said that she wouldn’t be who she is now without music, and she owes a massive thanks to her family for being so encouraging when she was younger. If it wasn’t for them, she feels that she wouldn’t be doing any of this right now.

She said, “My big, lifelong audacious dream is to perform my own songs in front of 65,000 people (it has always been that number, don’t know why), and I feel like it’s inching a little closer. I want to add a special mention to Marty, Andy and Matt who are my band-mates – they have been nurturing and teaching me things. I’m already a better muse just hanging out with them, so it’s very exciting to think about how things will unfold. I gave up on the dream for a while but it’s back and burning baby, we’ll see just where it leads.”

Keep an eye out for Hekyl & Jive’s upcoming shows in the Woopi News gig guide. 

~ Brad Nelson

A lifetime dedicated to music

I found writing this article a difficult task. I believe that Dave Ash really deserves to have a book written about him, and a small article like this won’t do him justice at all. Even so, here is a quick glimpse into parts of Dave’s lifetime of musical endeavours.

I caught up with Dave while he was playing a gig at Mogul Beer recently.

Dave Ash started playing in bands at the age of sixteen. As part of a support band, he played on stage with names like The Hollies, The Searchers and Joe Cocker just as they were starting to climb up the UK charts.

Dave was born in the Midlands of England, in the city Stoke-on-Trent. This area in Staffordshire was famous for soccer and Dave remembers Sir Stanley Mathews as being one of the greatest football players of all time.

David was playing guitar and bass in many genres including country, blues and jazz.

Dave’s passion was playing professionally with many different bands and he loved to play.

He arrived Sydney in 1969 when the music scene was thriving.

He soon went on tour with a travelling show. He then joined bands and began playing the Millers Hotel circuit.

Being able to read music and backing performers in the club industry was a great way to make a living.

Dave recorded music at EMI with American organist Rory Thomas which led to some good gigs.

He also recorded with Townsville Country Band at Tempo Records with ‘Tracy’, a song about the Darwin cyclone.

Dave left Sydney for Coffs Harbour in 1978 and began playing as a one man band in many venues in the area.

He then met John Spence and became his bass player as well as doing day gigs and game shows which he learned from John.

More recently, Dave played with a covers band The Weekenders, originally Hank and the Jonnies, playing with them for about fifteen years.

He also played jazz with The Roger Burke Quartet in Bellingen.

In the last few years, Dave has played in his own blues band The Blues Boyz, opening for the Blues and Berries Festival at Woopi since it started.

Dave has recorded four albums at Island View Studios with American friend Rob Robertson.

He still loves getting out there and playing and he is still gigging around the local area. He now also plays Wind Synth which is sometimes described as a ‘digital saxophone’.

Lately, I have really been enjoying attending the open mic’s that are held around the local traps. I have noticed that Dave Ash repeatedly makes an appearance at these events, and I sometimes joke that he can’t help himself – it’s like music is his life, and he doesn’t want to miss out on any of it! Dave is well received, and everyone is happy to see him when he arrives on the scene.

Dave enjoys playing at the open mics, and he says at eighty next year, it keeps him young.

Dave’s latest venture is combining a few of his artistic talents. He has found a way to merge his artwork (painting) with his poetry, and accompanying them with his own music - on YouTube.

Keep an eye out for Dave around the local traps, he definitely loves his music! 

~ Brad Nelson

Slyder Trio

Slyder Band is a three-piece cover band that I really enjoy. Slyder as they are known locally are made up of members Glen Sweeney, Dave Varley and Kevin Few. Their primary mission is to get people up dancing and enjoying themselves, which is what these locals have pursued in their quest to become a staple in the local music scene.

Their popular covers of mainly rock and pop – 80s, 90s and noughties are so varied, they cater to most people’s taste in music, and after several years of playing together, they have become a very tight outfit.

The band has a wealth of experience playing up and down the coast of NSW and into Queensland.

They incorporate some iconic slide guitar riffs into their repertoire to instil the name Slyder into the minds of people attending their gigs.

They currently play the coastline strip between Casino and Port Macquarie, and are kept busy with return gigs, building good relationships with venues and punters.

Profile of members

Glen Sweeney is the bass guitarist and main vocalist (all three band members sing and do back up vocals). Glen is a resident of the northern beaches and cut his teeth in local venues like the Seaview Tavern and the Amble Inn (now Corindi Beach Hotel) and is still playing at these iconic venues.

Glen has played in many local bands including Store Dummies, Gunshy and The Stripes. In that time he has opened for major acts like Icehouse, The Screaming Jets, Mondo Rock, Kate Ceberano, Noiseworks, Divinyls, Hunters and Collectors, The Angels and Billy Thorpe.

In his days with Store Dummies Glen recorded an album at the legendary Troy Horse studios in Newtown, and received airplay on Triple J and other radio stations, and kept busy playing gigs from Sydney to Brisbane.

Dave Varley is a well known musician on the Coffs Coast, emigrating from Auckland, New Zealand as a teenager and is now also residing on the northern beaches.

Dave lead sings on a number of songs. He is a very competent guitarist and a master of the slide guitar, which he plays in quite a few songs. This was the catalyst in him coming up with the name Slyder.

Dave also cut his teeth in and around Coffs playing in Joint Effort, Happy Cannibals and Vanessa Lea & Roadtrain before they became a duo. He supported major bands like The Black Sorrows in that time.

Last but not least, Kevin Few is the drummer. Kevin has played drums for most of his life and was born and bred in Coffs Harbour and now resides in Sawtell. He also did a stint with Glen in Store Dummies, recording and touring with them and also played in many other popular bands in the area including Neutral Ground and Slipstream.

Kevin has supported many major acts including Noiseworks and Ian Moss in his time. He lead sings on a handful of songs as well as some backups.

Keep an eye out for one of my favourite cover bands, Slyder. They are playing at The Corindi Beach Hotel on Friday, February 28, and they are well worth checking out!

~ Brad Nelson

Yarrow Music Returns to the Northern Beaches

This month I would like to share with you the return of a local artist I have come to love listening to online and live.

Yarrow has been living on the northern beaches for a large part of the last 14 years, and she’s ready to share her music with the world again. Known for her smooth voice and enchanting tunes, she’s recently made a comeback after taking a break. Her music blends folk and soul, creating a vibe that draws audiences in.

Growing up in a musical family sparked Yarrow’s love for singing early on. Her new songs reflect her inspirations –nature and eastern philosophy – while her creativity knows no limits. In the past, she has written lullabies and chants, following whatever inspires her. Yarrow loves pairing her vocals with rhythmic strumming and delicate fingerpicking on her acoustic guitar, and she’s excited to add more percussion techniques to her act.

Yarrow is actually her artist name, chosen because it feels right for her creative side. She stumbled upon the name while looking for unique herbs for her garden, a pastime she enjoys with her son. The Yarrow herb is connected to summer solstice celebrations and healing, making it a perfect match for her artistic identity.

She’s drawn to the storytelling styles of artists like Kina Grannis and MaMuse, but she also admires the incredible vocal skills of legends like Mariah Carey, Beyoncé, and Jessie J. Their powerful voices set the bar high, inspiring Yarrow as she weaves folk influences into her performances.

For Yarrow, music is a universal language that connects us all. “Live music in the community is great. It’s all about the energy exchange that lifts everyone involved”, she says, reflecting on her local gigs.

According to Yarrow, the northern beaches have a special revitalising effect on people. “It’s a magic place to live”, she expresses, “inspired by the friendly community and stunning natural surroundings.” Balancing her gigs and family life, she remains a genuine presence in the music scene.

At her core, Yarrow is a singer-songwriter, a mother, a sister, an aunt, a friend, and a spirit in tune with the rhythms of life. Her journey, both personal and musical, showcases the power of passion and creativity, evolving with each chord she strums and every lyric she sings.

Keep an eye out for Yarrow Music. During January you will be able to enjoy her beautiful vocals at the following venues; Private Function - 3rd,  Reflections Corindi Beach - 4th (3-6pm),  Woopi Backpackers - 10th (6-9pm),  Woolgoolga Diggers - 25th (7-11pm).

You can also catch her on Facebook @Yarrow Music

~ Brad Nelson

Alexie is a talented musician that was born on the Coffs Coast and grew up in Glenreagh. 

Although he is currently living in Sydney, he frequently travels back to this area to visit his family and do shows at local venues.

You may have seen him perform one of his unique ‘One-Man-Band’ acts at The Seaview Tavern or perhaps The Corindi Beach Hotel.

Alexie has been interested in music from an early age. He has always enjoyed singing, and would sing to entertain his family as a young child. 

He started to learn the guitar at around the age of 13, but he soon took to drumming when he realised that drumming came to him naturally. 

He then returned to hone his guitar skills once his drumming was perfected. Alexie received drumming lessons from the late Laurie Lowe, a local drummer. He also learnt to play bass guitar and now also dabbles a little with piano in his home studio.

He studied music at high school where he joined his first band, a three-piece punk band called ‘Loco Parentus’, drumming and singing backing vocals. His natural musical talent gained him a start doing gigs in the Coffs area.

He showed an interest in music production and taught himself the basics.

His early musical influences were ‘Red Hot Chilli Peppers’, ‘Pearl Jam’ and ‘Nirvana’. He enjoyed that kind of 90s grunge music.

Then his interests expanded to other genres, like heavy metal. He played drums in a metal band called ‘Narcissus’ for about four years. So his metal influences were ‘Lamb of God’, and ‘Gojira’.

More recently, Alexie has also become interested in Latin music and Jazz, so the drummer Dave Weckl is a more recent influence along with a band Malo Malo led by Danny G Felix.

Alexie is also a prolific songwriter, and has some of his originals available on mainstream platorms like Spotify, and even more available on Bandcamp and also another platform - BuyTunes.online

He also has some video clips available on YouTube and has quite a few ‘in the works’, so keep an eye out for those.

Because Alexie’s music career is multi-faceted, it keeps him quite busy, his songwriting process is simply to try to capture any ideas as inspiration strikes. 

He makes note of any ideas that come to him and holds onto the things that ‘flow’ naturally, unless he is inspired by some kind of song-worthy life event.

Alexie enjoys the freedom of being a musician and he feels blessed that he can experience the joy of doing what he loves every day. He is a self-employed freelance musician, so he has ultimate control of what he does. A perfectionist in his field, he strives to create the best possible sound and feel to portray to his audience.

He is also his own sound engineer and does his own mixing when he plays locally so that he can achieve the exact sound he desires.

I really enjoy watching Alexie in action, how he can sing, engage with the audience, play the guitar and create multiple percussion sounds all at the same time is an inspiration to me.

You can catch Alexie for free over the next few weeks at the following live venues:   • Friday Dec 20 – 8pm-11pm, The Corindi Beach Hotel;   • Saturday Dec 21 – 6pm-9pm, Hoey Moey Coffs Harbour;   • Sunday Dec 22 – Midday-3pm, Coramba Hotel;   • Boxing Day – 8pm-11pm, Seaview Tavern, Woolgoolga;   • Friday Dec 27 – 8.30pm -11.30pm, Sawtell Hotel;   • Saturday Dec 28 – 8pm -11pm, Village Green Hotel, Grafton.

He will also be on drums/backing vocals for ‘The Crowdies Show’ - Tribute to Crowded House and Split Enz at The Seaview Tavern, Woolgoolga, Saturday Jan 11 and at Hoey Moey on Sunday Jan 12.

~ Brad Nelson