Local artist profile: Thomas Hadlow

THIS week we chat with local guitarist Thomas Hadlow, who says it’s hard to pinpoint exactly what his style is, but if he had to boil it down, the underlying traits of his playing are “groove and colour.”

What initially motivated you to take up the guitar?

A part of me has been drawn to the guitar from as early as three years old when I became enthralled by a paper-mâché guitar with rubber band strings that my mum had made.

From there it was a steady progression through watching concert DVDs, hearing artists like Bruce Springsteen, John Butler and The Waifs for the first time and going to my first few small concerts until eventually beginning lessons at eight years old.

How would you describe your style?

It’s hard to pinpoint exactly what my style is due to exploring so many different genres over the years.

My role in the bands I’ve played in has been the chameleon; I adapt and blend into the context of the music.

If I had to boil it down, the underlying traits of my playing are groove and colour.

Having spent a lot of time playing funk rhythm guitar I’ve developed a knack for sitting in the pocket and driving the groove of whatever genre I happen to be playing.

As for the colour, I find myself being drawn towards more varied chord voicings or note choices outside of what anyone else in the band may be playing to add a little shimmer or spice.

Which other guitarists inspire you?

One of my biggest inspirations in recent years has been Mark Lettieri.

His versatility as a musician and composer has had a pivotal effect on my playing and general approach to guitar.

Others include Matt Bellamy of Muse for his dramatic riff writing and classical influence, Derek Trucks for his vocal and melodic approach, (and) the approach to acoustic fingerstyle from artists such as John Butler, Jon Gomm and Andy McKee.

What are some highlights you have from your time as a guitarist?

Playing eleven shows in one weekend for the Bendigo Blues and Roots Festival in 2019, recording two albums with Sherri Parry, (and) performing with so many talented local artists and bands including Sherri Parry, Jared Healy, Redjar, Groove Juice, Steph Bitter and Rhyley McGrath.

(Also) being a part of the Victorian State School Spectacular in 2017 and 2018, making my own guitar from scratch during lockdown, (and) meeting so many other wonderful like minded people who love music.

How can people check out your music online?

Although I haven’t released any of my own original music (though I’m cooking something up) I often post on my instagram @tomhadlowmusic.

Additionally you can hear my work as a guitarist and producer/engineer on Sherri Parry’s newly released singles and her previous album “Leave the Flowers” and Jared Healy’s EP “Between the Bog and the Borough”.

Do you have any gigs coming up?

You can catch me performing around town with Sherri Parry and Jared Healy/Redjar.

What would you say to young regional aspiring guitarists who are thinking of making a go of the creative life?

There will be people who will tell you that you’re wasting your time and that you should give up and get a “real job”.

Don’t listen to them, they don’t know what you’re capable of and they don’t understand how unbelievably rewarding this can be.

Stay humble, don’t be an ass, lift up and support your fellow artists and remember – it’s not that serious.