THIS week we chat with Sam Pollock from the dynamic local blues\/funk\/country\/punk band The Ratbags.<\/p>\n
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What role do you play in The Ratbags?<\/strong><\/p>\n I play guitar and vocals and have taken up the role as front man. It\u2019s a great challenge being the direct link between band and audience and I\u2019m proud and motivated to represent The Ratbags and my band mates as best I can.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n What initially motivated you personally to become a musician?<\/strong><\/p>\n I come from a musical family. I was drawn to my grandfather\u2019s euphonium as a child which led to me to learning both that and trombone through high school and eventually joining a local ukulele group with my parents. I\u2019m at my happiest with an instrument in my hands and love sharing that with others.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n In terms of The Ratbags as a whole, how would you describe your style and how did you come to develop it?<\/strong><\/p>\n We\u2019re predominately a cover band but because we all have such varying tastes and styles, when combined, it has created a pretty unique sound. We mixed together elements of blues, funk, outlaw country and punk rock, creating a sound that we think is pretty special.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Are there any particular themes you like to feature in your music? What draws you to these themes?<\/strong><\/p>\n We play loud, high energy shows with explosive drum fills and electrifying guitar solos. We\u2019re all about having fun and more often than not that translates to the audience. If the crowd is smiling, singing or dancing along, then we\u2019ve done our job.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Which other bands or musicians inspire you and why?<\/strong><\/p>\n For me personally, Stevie Ray Vaughan is a huge inspiration alongside Johnny Cash and local legend John Grossman. In terms of why, they\u2019re all great and skilled performers with lyrics and music that I find touching and relatable. The Ratbags find inspiration from anyone like blues legend Freddie King to the busker outside of Coles. If it sounds good, it\u2019s good enough for us.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n What are some highlights or fond memories you have from your career so far?<\/strong><\/p>\n I just love playing music and sharing the stage with Jake, Adrian and Adam. Every gig provides something new that we can reflect on, good or bad. Weddings are always fun, birthdays, sporting events, local festivals, we\u2019ve played our share of most things, even a skateboarding competition!<\/p>\n <\/p>\n