First Act

The Band: Andrew Thomas (Guitar/Vocals) Pete Turner (Drums/Vocals) Ben Vawdrey (Guitar/Vocals) Barnaby Gickel (Bass) Genre: Rock/Acoustic Location: Brisbane, Australia Label: ACT Music Recordings: LP – First Act EP – First Act: Chapter 1 EP – First Act: Chapter 2 Websites: www.atband.com www.myspace.com/atmusicaustralia Background: After playing in a handful of bands early in his career lead vocalist/guitarist Andrew Thomas left Australia’s shores for the obligatory year of travel overseas. Seven years later after living in various countries around the world Thomas returned armed with an old 4-track recorder that accompanied him on his travels. These experiences yielded many musical ideas inspired by both travelling and growing as a person. In 2006 Thomas felt that it was the right time to form a band. Recruiting Pete Turner on drums, Ben Vawdrey on rhythm guitar and Barnaby Gickel on bass guitar the story of AT, the band began. In an exciting first 3 years the band have grown from four new friends to a dynamic band who have released two critically acclaimed EP’s, received TV/radio play and have garnered international recognition. 2009 sees the release of the band’s debut album First Act and the next chapter in the band’s career will see the group launch their first national tour to promote the album and continue to grow their fan base both in Australia and around the world. Reviews: “Great solid classic rock sound…emotive lyrics…tight group.” Jules – Triple J Radio "AT has released that certain type of disc that on first listening grabs your senses and demands attention. …’their music is just what we need at this moment; it's innovative, fresh and well up there with the best of any chart band's efforts… AT deserve far greater exposure, both within Australia and outside, as this is a band with a 'sound', tight musicianship and great production. Bands like this normally don't just appear; this band appears to be the exception to the rule." Tony Bates 100.7 Highlands FM “….drawing a larger crowd with an audience-friendly mix of heavy/melodic layered rock, including the ferocious Blinded proves from the get-go their obvious musicianship.” Rave Magazine “…local rock quartet AT have already played venues some bands never play.” Time Off Magazine “…AT bring us their first EP First Act – Chapter 1 that is definitely worth a second listen. They are a fresh and pleasant surprise.” Tsunami Magazine “EP received and currently enjoying high rotation. Keep up the great work as we delight in supporting Australian music of your calibre.” Denise A. Guest – PBA FM Influences: Foo Fighters, The Cult, Metallica, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Guns and Roses, AC/DC, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Thin Lizzy, Jeff Buckley, Alice in Chains, Trivium, Offspring, Pete Murray, Jimi Hendrix.