Tropics call surf guitar kings
As the Perth winter approaches, the warm, tropical vibe of an upcoming tiki party will bring a surfer band of four friends to Broome.
Day of the Dead, known as Perth’s masters of the surf guitar, are set to headline El Santo Entertainment’s Tiki Party next month, a tropical night at The Roey’s Oasis Bar.
Nick Gallagher is one of the guitarists in the Perth band and says he and his bandmates could not be more excited.
“This is our first time ever playing in Broome,” he said.
“(The town) is a magical oasis that has a very special identity and flavour. Its warm, sunset vibes are calling us very loudly.”
Accompanying Gallagher to the Kimberley town will be guitarist Ben Frichot, drummer Luke Fragomeni and bass guitarist Byron Robertson, who plan on giving Broome a little taste of the new music they have just completed.
The band have played alongside big names such as Motorhead, Joe Satriani, Stray Cats and Calexio — experiences Gallagher describes as “unbelievable”.
Their inspirations range from Queens of the Stone Age and Dick Dale to Wu-Tang Clan and Jay-Z — an accurate reflection of the troupe’s singularity.
Tiki Party organiser Greg Patterson said Day of the Dead were the perfect band to complement his event next month, which would encompass the tropical themes of Broome, such as the beautiful beaches, wildlife and palm trees.
“Day of the Dead are an important part of making the club night different,” he said.
“It’s not like we have surf bands playing live all the time in Broome.
“I think they will draw a good crowd to the event as their style of music really suits the local area.
“They are a modern take on 1960s surf rock, which was an essential part of tiki culture.”
Mr Patterson said the event would be a fun night out for everyone, but different from what people may be used to. “Why wouldn’t you want to be outside sipping on a tiki cocktail, watching a live surf band and dancing?” he said.
“People might experience something new and find something they really like.”
Gallagher said the performance would be one the people of Broome would not want to miss.
“If people want to dance, drink and party, then come see us,” he said.
“Did I just describe the entire Broome population?”
The Tiki Party will take place at The Roey Oasis Bar on Saturday, June 10 at 7pm.
Day of the Dead will be joined by DJ El Santo, who will play tropical hits from a range of genres.
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