Brilleaux, comprising Brian Franks on bass, Ian Beano Gilpin on drums, Graham Clark and Bruce Rolands on guitar. Photo/supplied
Brilleaux, comprising Brian Franks on bass, Ian Beano Gilpin on drums, Graham Clark and Bruce Rolands on guitar. Photo/supplied
Tauranga band Brilleaux have grown a staunch local audience in the 17 years since they formed. The band fits in the British-style R 'n' B genre, but according to lead singer Graham Clark, the group likes to push the genre's boundaries. "Instead of following musical trends, we prefer to paveour own way - and we have quite a distinctive sound of our own. It is not safe or sedate - it is hard and edgy," he says.
It's not just musical boundaries they are pushing, either. Over the past few years they have toured the UK, performing at Blues on the Farm last year, arguably the best blues festival there.
"Last year when we played there we were an unknown quantity, and the venue was sparsely populated when we began. Within 30 seconds into our first song we witnessed hordes of people piling into the venue to see who the band was. By the end of our first song the huge marquee was packed solid with people jumping up and down, and at least five photographers pushing for a place along the front of the stage," says Clark.
"When we finished our performance we were actually mobbed by the crowd wanting to interview us, get autographs or have merchandise signed - an unreal experience," he says.
The impact must have been huge, because Brilleaux got an invite to perform again at this year's 25th anniversary festival.
"[It is] a real compliment to be asked back," says Clark. The band is touring the UK now, and they perform at the 25th Anniversary Blues on the Farm this Saturday.
Last year the band released a new studio album, Pictures of the Queen, to coincide with that tour. And they learned something from last year - the need to be locked and loaded with merchandise for fans.
This year they've released a new 'best of' album, Brillcream, for sale in the UK. As a result of last year's triumph, the band was also invited to play at the Red Moon Festival in Fossalta, Italy.
