Sharu Delilkan catches up with one of New Zealand's most successful rock musicians as he tours his way homewards.
Shelton Woolright has achieved international fame with the band I am Giant but he'll always be a Westie at heart.
The 30-year-old Massey resident who basically divides his time between Auckland and the UK, joined his first band 17 years ago at Kelston Boys High School.
"Like many teenagers it started out as a fun thing.
"But hearing stories about my uncle Paul from Hello Sailor living in London inspired me to take my drum lessons seriously.
"Eventually music took over my life."
Since forming the band in 2008 and the sold out State of Rock tour, I Am Giant has spent a great deal of time on the road.
Their farewell London gig sold out they've recently performed in Australia, Bali, Singapore and Vietnam en route home for their first summer tour.
The former member of the Waitakere nu metal/alternative rock band Blindspott says he's thrilled to be touring the country with The Gaze this summer, before their Big Day Out debut.
"Although I've played Big Day Out many times with Blindspott it'll be a whole new experience with I am Giant.
"I'm really looking forward to being surrounded by other international acts."
The band is set to head out to Sydney's Big Day Out soon after, which precedes recording their first album in Sydney as part of their Sony recording deal.
"We've achieved so much so quickly as a band and we haven't even produced a record yet.
"I'm really excited about what's in store."
I am Giant's NZ Summer Tour, Prospect of Howick, 78 Picton St, Howick, Dec 16. Doors open 7.30pm and Brownzy, 775 Beach Rd, Browns Bay, Dec 23, 7.30pm.
Big Day Out 2011, Mt Smart Stadium, Maurice Rd Penrose, Jan 21. Gates open 11am. Tickets: Ticketmaster, ph 970 9700 or see www.ticketmaster.co.nz
I am Westie
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