Chapter 1 EP
In 2000, AT frontman Andrew Thomas put into motion a plan to record and release his songs and with the recent completion of AT’s debut 4-song EP First Act: Chapter 1 the initial plan has been fulfilled. Thomas (who has played music since childhood) put the band together in early 2006 after spending years honing his playing and song writing skills. He recruited three talented musicians to help him achieve his dream of recording his stories; stories gathered through years of travelling and life experiences. Thomas’ songs tell stories of life, death, the state of the world and everything in between. Style: The tight guitar, drums and bass rock foundation is only the beginning of this dynamic band. Energetic synergy is complemented by strong lyrics and melodies as well as three part harmonies. ‘Rock with flourishes’ is how Thomas describes the occasional acoustic and heavier touches. “This band is anything but one-dimensional. There are no gimmicks; we just need to play the music”. EP Songs: Feels the Same – Thomas deals with the death of a close relative. “Where have you gone now? Light the way – let me breathe.” Of the song’s title Thomas says, “It’s about being numb, trying to comprehend such a thing is all encompassing”. Beginning with a soft lament the song soon ramps into overdrive showing its true intent and passion. Elevated – The topic is celebrity, ‘Red carpet everywhere, what a disgrace.’ On celebrities, Thomas says, “Often we feel like we’ll never measure up to them, but they’re just like everyone else.” The song opens with the sounds of classic rock. Deftly delivered with emotive lyrics the tune rollicks along with backup vocals adding even more depth to the song. Travellin’ Man – This catchy acoustic tune is a delightful melodic surprise after the previous rock songs. The lilting harmonies take the listener to an earlier era. Thomas wrote the song on Queensland’s tranquil Sunshine Coast upon returning home after 7 years travelling the globe through many places including North America, Europe, Russia and Iceland. “I’d like to get to know you, but I can’t ‘cause I gotta go.” Short and sweet, the gentle tune flows through melancholic verses and onto an unexpected outro. Sometime – The EP closer is a song about the fact that the world needs changing. “The tide is finally turnin' - Into what we cannot say.” Thomas explains, “I don’t have a grand plan for changing the world yet, but through music you can make an impact!” Another rock standard with classic foundations and a chorus you can sing along to.