Tim Loydell and The Deckchairs Interview

Tim, the guitarist and front-man of this young band, has a commanding yet comfortable stage presence which makes his adoring audience feel like they’ve just been welcomed into his home. Observing him on stage, you wonder how someone of only 20 years can look so deep into his soul, and have the maturity to show it candidly to you.

Tim has been playing guitar for eight years, but his affinity with the instrument is so strong you would think he was born with it in his hands. His music alone creates imagery and moods that many struggle to find the words to express. Tim is a prolific songwriter, but there came a point where, as a solo artist, he needed to give wings to his songs, and see them take shape in a band setting.

In 2007, through simple fate, Tim met Joe, Josh and Alex whilst studying music at University. Joe, a young drummer from Maleny, comes from a rich musical heritage and his very technical yet lyrical approach to playing draws on many styles and contributes a driving rhythm to The Deckchairs’ unique sound. Josh, a slide guitar specialist, takes a progressive approach to his instrument; using effects pedals and loop stations to add colour to the traditional slide sound heard in Jeff Lang and John Butler’s music. Alex, the youngest and the wild child of the group, is a natural talent on the bass. Influenced by funk and fusion (with a dash of Bach), he has ability well beyond his years. It’s this beautiful melting pot of styles, influences and personalities, along with a healthy mutual respect, that makes this band spark with energy and life. They are tomorrow’s festival favourites, and are emerging as the new crop of Australian roots.

How did it feel to hear your song played from a CD?

Tim Loydell and The Deckchairs:The first time was quite overwhelming and very exciting. We weren’t sure where the CD and music was going to go, who would get into it, would it make the radio etc. But so far it’s been really well received so we’re really happy right now.


Did you have any pre-conceived ideas about the music industry?

Tim Loydell and The Deckchairs:Yes. That it is overcome by people only focused on making money and not the integrity and social or cultural value of the music itself or keeping it alive as an art-form. That’s why we signed with Keytone who are really trying to provide a way for musicians to make a living whilst maintaining the original purpose of the music. We felt that suited what we’re about so it’s a good fit.


Do you write your own songs? What's your inspiration?

Tim Loydell and The Deckchairs:Yes the songs are mostly written by me but shaped by the band. We draw inspiration from everyday life and the effect of a modern world on us. We use the music to escape the shitty aspects of modern life.


Why do you, Tim, think you have such a wonderful stage presence?

Tim Loydell and The Deckchairs:Because I have great hair.


Tim, why did you believe you had to create your music through a band,not solo?

Tim Loydell and The Deckchairs:I actually started out solo but really found the whole band gives a life to the music that isn’t possible solo.


Do you believe it was fate that you all met at University, and now haveestablished a band?

Tim Loydell and The Deckchairs:Oh most definitely. It’s totally weird how easily it all came together looking back.


How long have you been playing the guitar?

Tim Loydell and The Deckchairs:15 years. I got my first guitar when I was six. We found it at the dump, it only had one string and a crack in the back but I couldn’t put it down.


What music/artists do you listen to when you are not playing your own?

Tim Loydell and The Deckchairs:I have quite diverse tastes so as long as its music with integrity, I’m into it. Right now I’m listening to Bob Marley, Pink Floyd and Missy Higgins.


What's next? Tour/Album/Single?

Tim Loydell and The Deckchairs:All of the above! We release our debut EP in August before heading on an East Coast tour to Melbourne and back. Then we go straight into the studio to record the album.


Where have you been performing?

Tim Loydell and The Deckchairs:Fete de la Musique, Brisbane Festival, GOMA, The Joynt, The Globe and others. We try to play as regularly as possible.


For how long have you been hoping to create a CD and begin performing onstage?

Tim Loydell and The Deckchairs:I’ve been performing on stage for a few years now and had been itching to make a CD the whole time. We were stoked when our label signed us and paid for our recording.


Was there a moment you contemplated giving up on the music industry?

Tim Loydell and The Deckchairs:No I don’t know how to do anything else.


What/who was your inspiration to go into the music industry?

Tim Loydell and The Deckchairs:My ex-girlfriend told me I was wasting my time trying to be a musician. What do you think?


What is the biggest challenge you have faced along the way to yourmusical success?

Tim Loydell and The Deckchairs:Remembering my underpants go on the inside.


Do you have another job? Or is music your soul career?

Tim Loydell and The Deckchairs:I am a youth worker working with disadvantaged kids. It’s very rewarding but music is my main focus.