The Medics never quite fit in with the rest of the music scene in Far North Queensland. Not one to feel constrained by the industry around them, the band perserved and crafted their debut album Foundations. With the album due for release on May 18 I caught up with the band’s bassist Charles Thomas to chat about it, their early years in Cairns, and supporting some of the best bands in the country.
Your debut album Foundations hits stores on Friday. What can you tell me about it?
It’s going to be a real exciting day! The songs that we have treasured and nurtured over the months will be available in stores and online for everyone to hear! We hope that people love them and that the songs speak to them.
How does it feel to finally unleash that music?
Pretty unreal. We are just ‘going with the flow’ and aren’t sure if it’s going to do really well or not. We’re just pumped that the public will be available to hear it and buy it!
You released an EP before this. How have you grown between releasing that and the long player?
Most definitely. We have matured as musicians, which has seen the development within the band.
The band’s made up of cousins and close friends. What does that shared history bring to the band?
It means that we all have a close, tight-knit connection on and off stage.
I believe your music didn’t quite gel with the rest of the scene back home. How did that experience shape you?
In a way it encouraged us to be the different. To start something ‘fresh’ and new. Glad we thought along those lines, because it ended up working really well.
Triple J was an early supporter of your work. What did their belief in your music do for you?
It encouraged us that we were doing the right thing, stepping out and just being plain original. They also exposed us to Australia! Oh and of course Stifler’s mum …
You’ve supported some amazing acts over the past couple of years. What are the highlights for you?
Playing with and meeting incredible artists is so inspiring. Touring with The Grates and Last Dinosaurs last year was a definite highlight.
You’ve also played just about every festival that matters. How do those shows compare to the club gigs?
They are both good. It’s really cool to play big festivals because the exposure and vibe is awesome!
Are you planning any shows to support the album release?
Yep. We are having a launch party at the Black Bear Lodge (in Brisbane) on 22 May. Come PARTY! We’re hoping to do some touring later in the year.
Do you have anything else in the pipeline?
We are incredibly excited for Splendour in The Grass. It’s going to be epic! We can’t wait to play in front of friends and fans!
Image used with permission from Footstomp Music