KOOYEH

Nine mates, an array of influences and one earthy sound, this is what encapsulates Kooyeh.

It’s a scenario that only seems to be found in fiction, yet these guys have been working consistently over this year to not only solidify their sound, but their bond with each other.

“I think it’s definitely made our sound a lot more epic,” contemplates the band’s drummer Louie Michael.

“Internally we can add a lot more layers and mimic more of the CD which is nice. It’s a nicer feeling with more people on the stage, a lot more of an earthy feeling.”

As well as more people on stage there was more than double in the studio, a situation that was solved with 20 mattresses and stray carpet which created a mix and match environment to harvest their music.

“Sometimes there is stress with trying to organise nine people to rehearse, but it usually works out,” says Michael.

“When we started meeting our new band members, who started to fall into the band in the past year, it really took the band in a new formation.”

A new formation, a new setting. With all nine members finally on board, they made the collective decision to relocate. Gone were the picturesque mountain backdrops of Katoomba in the Blue Mountains, ahead was the sleek and arty vibes of Melbourne.

“We moved purely for the band,” explains Michael.

“We wanted to see how far we could go with it. It was a definite challenge; it tested those of us who were moving ten hours away from family and friends to a brand new city where you don’t know anyone. We all had aspirations of making the band work and it’s been pretty successful so far. I feel like it’s been well worth it, definitely.”

Their risk is about to pay off with a brand new tour that will solidify their big family. Beginning in Victoria and eventually making their way to rock out The Basement in Sydney, the boys are gearing up to promote their latest single from the groove-inducing debut studio album Soul Cleansing. Mountain Top is a soul-fuelled reggae trip, a tune that is as relaxing as it is bop-worthy.

“The single took us about two years to finish so I definitely think it will be a lovely experience, we’re a team of people and we all want to play music and promote the same thing so it will be nice.” (CD)

Sep 25, The Basement, 7 Macquarie Pl, Sydney, $5, 9251 2797, thebasement.com.au