Goodrich winds back the clock with power pop hits

WITH Toni Childs’ bass player Morris Serniga and one-time Misex keyboardist Murray Burns in the line-up, Goodrich offers Northern Rivers music fans a guaranteed good time.

After initially forming on Sydney’s northern beaches in the early 1990s, lead singer Bruce Butler brought the band north when he moved to Byron Bay, finding new members through the local music scene.

They include drummer Johnny McCann, Sam Shine on guitar and Jamie Ashforth on guitar and harmonica.

“Jamie is one of the greatest harmonica players in Australia – and a great guitar player,” Butler said. “He blows people’s minds.”

The group plays a mix of 1960s and ‘70s power pop, with tunes by the likes of Iggy Pop, The Doors, The Who, The Clash, The Rolling Stones and Blondie.

“I just love the outlet and the fact that I’m still playing at 60 years old,” Butler said. “It’s being able to get out there and have fun. The crowds still love it, so we’re still loving it.”

The band plays regularly at venues such as Beach Hotel Byron Bay, Coolangatta Hotel, Lennox Hotel and the Wharf River Club at the Wharf Bar in Ballina.

They are also performing at a fundraiser at Coorabell Hall from 7pm on Saturday May 24.

Butler said he was happy to support the hall, which has been a community hub for more than a century.

“Over the years I have been to many, many a party at the hall and I’ve had friends on the committee,” he said.

“I still think you need those little venues. They’re a really good outlet for people to get to know people and help support the community.”

Tickets are available via Humantix.