Rockers to play TA as big time calls

Today, Te Awamutu. Tomorrow, Europe, the States and Australia. Danielle Nicholson talks to Nail (aka Tony Vincent) about Devilskin's plans for the future.

Hamilton rockers Devilskin have taken New Zealand by storm and, if their plan comes to fruition, they'll be taking their gutsy sound to far-off shores.

But first up, they're set to play their first all-ages gig at Te Awamutu College, where Nail went to school.

Formed in June 2010, Devilskin is comprised of Jennie Skulander on vocals, the red-bearded 'evil twins' Nail and Paul Martin on guitars, and young talent Nic Martin on drums.

The gig will help a current crop of Te Awamutu musicians raise money for a cultural trip to America in December. Devilskin have waived their fee to help the cause and hope to fill the hall to capacity.

"We're finding there is an ever increasing demand for all-ages gigs, and this way we can also help the school out," said Nail.

The Te Awamutu College gig comes hot on the heels of nationwide tour where 17 of the 20 shows sold out and saw their independently released debut album We Rise rocket to number one in the Kiwi music charts.

Since then, the four-piece band has played Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne venues - making new fans across the ditch and meeting plenty of ex-pat Kiwi fans.

"We've done a few shows there and know what we're up against in Australia. We definitely want to to get back there, hopefully before the end of the year."

The rest of this year and the beginning of next are shaping up to be intense for the band.

A new video for the next single Fade films soon and they are putting the final touches to a live DVD that was recorded at a recent gig at Auckland's Powerstation.

We Rise is also coming out on vinyl in November and it's rumoured there may be a summer tour in the pipeline.

And, of course, Devilskin is set to open for Slash in February, and they're in the line-up at Wellington's Jim Beam Homegrown on March 7.

"Opening for Slash - we're stoked with that. It's one of those things you dream about because he's an idol. You've got to pinch yourself to see if it's real."

The band can also tick up another win: their song Little Pills came in at number two on the annual The Rock 1000 countdown as voted by listeners - the highest ranked New Zealand song ever in The Rock 1000's history.

So why is it that Devilskin has such a loyal following?

"I have no idea but the band has had so much support from the get-go and we try and make the time for our supporters," said Nail. "They are all so loyal and right behind us. We couldn't do it with them."

So while they're looking forward to playing for a mixed-age crowd at Te Awamutu College, they have their sights set further afield.

"Long-term our focus for us needs to be on the international stage... Aussie, Europe and America."

So does that mean they can see the day when they can concentrate on Devilskin full-time, ditch their day jobs?

"That would be the ultimate for us and where we need to be."

Devilskin all-ages gig at Te Awamutu College, 938 Alexandra St, Te Awamutu, on Saturday, October 18. Doors open 7.30pm. Show finishes no later than 10pm. Tickets $20 from Eventfinda.