Queensland artists set sail for leading European music festival

Local band “The Boat People” will build on Brisbane’s solid reputation as one of the world’s top cities for new music when they perform at The Great Escape Festival in Brighton in the UK.

The State Government, through Trade Queensland and Arts Queensland, supports Queensland’s participation in the festival through its partnership with peak industry body, Q Music.

Minister for Trade John Mickel and Arts Minister Rod Welford said The Boat People’s invitation to play at the high-profile festival between May 15-17 was recognition of Queensland’s growing international reputation for contemporary music, with the festival an important entry point to the European market.

“The Great Escape attracts the best artists from around the world and it’s Europe’s leading showcase event for new music, with an emphasis on working with export-ready partners and trade bodies,” Mr Mickel said.

“More than 200 artists will showcase in 25 venues during the three days.

“We’ve been committed to raising the profile of Queensland’s music industry through MUSEXPO in the US since it began in 2005 and we are now seeing Queensland musicians and groups like The Boat People take on the UK and Europe.

“The promoters behind The Great Escape Festival operate 18 venues and clubs in Britain that specialise in highlighting the very best in new talent from around the world.”

Mr Welford said the festival also had a convention component which attracted music industry professionals and decision-makers from around the world.

“It brings together global leaders in the music, media and technology industries and provides companies and artists with an opportunity to interact and do business,” Mr Welford said.

“Q Music project officer Deb Suckling will represent the Queensland music industry at the convention.

ABOUT THE PARTICIPANTS

The Boat People

Described as “The masters of perfectly unconventional pop” (Inpress), The Boat People have steadily made their way to the forefront of Australia’s independent music scene. With a slew of classic alternative radio hits on Triple J, the latest single Unsettle My Heart crossed over to national airplay on Nova and won Song of the Year at the inaugural QSong Awards. Internationally the song gained extensive radio play in the US on prominent tastemaker stations KCRW and Indie 103.1, radio play in Sweden and the UK, and the video gained heavy rotation on US video show IMF. In 2008 The Boat People will release their highly anticipated sophomore album.

Deb Suckling – Q Music

Deb Suckling is project officer for Q Music, the state’s not-for-profit organisation dedicated to the growth of Queensland music. She is also the owner and label manager of independent record label SugarRush Records, one of the first digitally focused labels in Australia, and front-woman, guitarist and manager of bands Brindle and the Peachfish. Deb has toured nationally and internationally.

In her role at Q Music, Deb facilitates music development activities across Queensland, coordinates the annual QSong Awards, which celebrate and recognise Queensland’s emerging and established songwriters and assists with the organisation of the BIG SOUND music summit and showcase held in Brisbane 1-3 October 2008.

Deb’s wealth of experience as an artist, combined with her music industry development and coordination skills, give her a unique perspective and knowledge of the state’s music industry.

About The Great Escape Festival 2008

The Great Escape Festival takes place in Brighton, UK, 15 - 17 May 2008.

For more information visit www.escapegreat.com

Contacts: The Boat People: Rick Chazan 0412 721 417; Q Music: Deb Suckling 0417 768 339.

Media contacts: Minister Mickel’s Office: Shannon Mackay 3237 1125; Minister Welford’s Office: Emma Clarey 3237 1000.

April 28, 2008