Airbourne ready for take off

Thu 1st Feb, 2007 in Features

The Melbourne rock scene is proving once again that it is a rich resource for talented young rock bands and the scene has continued to grow, however the plethora of bands out there is making it increasingly hard to get noticed. One band that has been fortunate enough to raise their head above the pack is Airbourne.

The guys have been turning heads with electric live shows serving up some high intensity no-nonsense hard rock, often compared to the iconic AC/DC.

Extensive gigging and a determination to succeed saw the guys sign to a major label in late 2005, none other than LA’s Capitol Records which has been home to the likes of the Foo Fighters, Coldplay, Radiohead, Megadeth and Poison amongst other highly influential bands.

“I think what helped was the fact that we moved into a house together, lived like rats, and played as many shows as we possibly could, most of the time with empty stomachs.” It is this attitude shared by brothers Ryan and Joel O’Keeffe that has played a big part in Airbourne’s success.

The band also went on to support the likes of the Rolling Stones and Motley Crue among others whilst making an appearance on the main stage at the 2006 Big Day Out.

They’ve since gone on to record their debut album in Los Angeles which is currently in post-production with a tentative release date of April 28.  Joel laments that the experience was great, “we learned a lot of bits and pieces in and around recording the album” and that its going to be “a solid album”.

Since returning home, the band has embarked on an extensive Australian tour, playing many dates in both city and country clubs. Asking what fans can expect live, Ryan says excitedly “a kick arse rock n roll show!”

Hailing from the tough Victorian coastal town of Warnambool, Airbourne have decided to give something back to smaller towns, playing the likes of Nowra and Lorne. The reception has been really well according to the band who think that’s because small towns don’t often get many bands coming through them.

However they are strong advocates of the Melbourne rock scene. “Melbourne Rock’n Roll is already quite alive, I think in the future it’s going to grow even more in the way of new live venues and bands.”

2007 should see the boys touring worldwide following the release of their debut album so get out to one of the remaining shows for a dose of some raw live rock n roll!

Airbourne tour dates
1 Feb 2007 – Richmond Henty – Portland, Victoria
2 Feb 2007 – Karova Lounge – Ballarat, Victoria
3 Feb 2007 – Ruby’s Lounge – Belgrave, Victoria
9 Feb 2007 – Fowler’s Live – Adelaide, South Australia
11 Feb 2007 – St Kilda Festival