The Australian music scene has had a long history of uncovering phenomenal talent and the occasional larrikin. Lennox local Marshall Okell is one man who embodies both attributes. Back performing under his own name in 2012, Marshall Okell will be bringing a new band and new sound to audiences all over the world.
Dedicated to a life on the road, Marshall Okell is known for his crowd-rousing and energetic live performances as the front man and creative drive behind the crowd pleasing Marshall & The ‘Fro. A band who have ripped the lips off capacity audiences all over Australia, including festivals such as Byron Bay Bluesfest, Woodford Folk Festival, Peats ridge Festival, Festival of The Sun and the Optus Gympie Muster to name a few.
In another part of the country following a similar path is Sydney based power trio Chase The Sun. The two bands met at the Byron Bay Bluesfest in 2008 and instantly hit it off. Since then, the bands have shared line-ups and stages all over the country as well as a few laughs along the way.
In the winter of 2011 Marshall felt it was time to evolve away from ‘The Fro’, so he decided to write a new album under his own name. As the notes and lyrics grew on the page, so too grew a grand vision of how the album should sound. He wanted it to be united under a special bond. So when Marshall Okell went looking for a rhythm section for his new band, he naturally asked his friends Ryan & Howler of Chase The Sun first.
On the bass, Ryan Van Gennip has performed with many artists including Charlton Hill and iOTA. On the drums is Jon “Howler” Howell, immerging from a jazz background, Howler found international acclaim as a member of 90’s Aria nominated band Leonardo’s Bride. Both Ryan and Howler have been focussed their attention on blues and rock music in recent years.
At the time of writing, Marshall Okell had entered a recording facility deep in the rainforests of the Byron Bay hinterland to lay down the tracks that will make up his epic new album.
After a very successful release of the ‘Sugar’ EP at this year’s Byron Bay Blues Festival the track Almost Killed You has just picked up best ‘Blues & Roots Artist of the Year’ at this year’s Music OZ awards held at The Sydney Opera House. Watch out for this new Aussie Super Group!!
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