BIGSOUND 2019 Artist Focus: SCABZ

Answered by: Siobhan Poynton – vocals and guitar

Give us a short description of your music: Funny, politically motivated music for the pub.

Which acts are on your must-see list at BIGSOUND? 100 are mad, Colby has mastered some of our tracks, he's a nice boy. Really wanna check out TOWNS and always up for a bit of Bad//Dreems.

Why should people come and see you among the many amazing bands at BIGSOUND? I think what sets us apart is that we can talk about serious shit without being too serious. We just want everyone to leave with a big grin and maybe the urge to go to a protest or something.

What music trends do you think are dominating right now, and do you have any predictions for the coming year? It's mad that weekly live music parties/club nights are starting to pop up again. I think with current restrictions and problems with licensing in NSW in particular, a better relationship between promoter and artist is gonna be a good way to sell tickets again.

In your career to date, what have been the key watershed moments? Touring with Skegss. Still doesn't seem real.

What industry lessons would you like to take away from the BIGSOUND conference? A bit on how to break into overseas markets and just generally get better and all the management/admin kinda stuff.

What do you identify as the most pressing issue impacting the Australian music industry at present? An issue that can be fixed by artists almost immediately is learning how to and doing an Acknowledgement Of Country before sets. It takes less than a minute and I reckon it's really upsetting how many bands still don't do it.

What is the best bit of advice you've been given to prepare for your time at BIGSOUND? Years ago someone told me that a band hired out the pub they worked at during the day to practice setting up and packing down really fast before a short showcase gig they had. I've been really full-on about doing quick and efficient Tuesday changeovers/line checks ever since.

When and where is your BIGSOUND showcase? 3 Sep, Crowbar Black, 8pm; 4 Sep, Crowbar, 10.40pm.