Queensland artists to showcase at Musexpo Los Angeles 2009

Published Friday, 20 February, 2009 at 04:35 PM

Minister for Transport, Trade, Employment and Industrial Relations
The Honourable John Mickel

Queensland artists to showcase at Musexpo Los Angeles 2009

Queensland bands Yves Klein Blue and Dead Letter Circus, and singer-songwriter Chris Pickering have been selected to represent Queensland by showcasing their talent at Musexpo Los Angeles 2009.

Trade Minister John Mickel said Musexpo is one of the most important and influential events for promising musicians trying to break into the US and international markets.

“As well as hosting some excellent international acts Musexpo has been a launch pad for some great Aussie musicians and bands,” Mr Mickel said.

“2009 will be the fifth year the Queensland Government, through Trade Queensland and Arts Queensland, has supported Queensland musicians at this annual event.

“During the next three years Trade Queensland’s new contemporary music export strategy will continue to promote Queensland’s wealth of musical talent at international music conferences and festivals like Musexpo,” Mr Mickel said.

The Queensland Government will coordinate the artists’ participation at Musexpo Los Angeles, to be held from 26 to 29 April, with help from the State’s peak industry body, Q Music.

Musexpo is run by A and R Worldwide, one of the leading artist discovery and development agencies in the world. A and R Worldwide has played a leading role in the initial artist discovery and development of a number of well known artists including Fatboy Slim, Missy Higgins, Ting Tings, Sam Sparro, Wolfmother and Coldplay.

Minister for the Arts Rod Welford commended Musexpo as an invaluable experience for Queensland artists, highlighting the opportunity for musicians to meet with key players in radio, A and R executives, film and television music supervisors and booking agencies as well as publishing and artist management companies.

“Participation at Musexpo is a great endorsement, and a great promotional opportunity for Queensland musicians. It will raise their profile in the international arena,” Mr Welford said.

“Queensland artists who have previously showcased at Musexpo include The Gin Club, Intercooler and The Boat People. All have returned with success stories. They have secured licensing deals, synchronisation deals for TV and advertising, and have been invited to showcase at music festivals around the world.

“The Queensland Government understands the value of international music events which incorporate performances, business networking and industry conferences. It is anticipated that Musexpo will again deliver results for the Queensland musicians this year,” Mr Welford said.


About the artists

Yves Klein Blue
Yves Klein Blue is named after artist Yves Klein's famous International Klein Blue, a blue paint that does not lose its brilliance over time, forever appearing wet and freshly applied. The name is a metaphor for the band’s aspiration to create music that will never fade with age. Yves Klein Blue’s clashy blend of classic pop, old punk, gypsy jazz and indie rock is a mixed palate and the band is inspired by a wealth of influences – from David Bowie and Lou Reed to Nirvana, The Clash and Elvis Costello, without adhering to or regurgitating any particular genre.

Chris Pickering
With strong melodies and insightful lyrics, award-winning musician Chris Pickering is already redefining the alt-country genre. The singer-songwriter has been seducing audiences throughout the country with his distinctive sound that combines soaring melodies with lyrics that paint vivid pictures of life in – and out – of the country.

Dead Letter Circus
Dead Letter Circus is an alternative rock quartet with attitude. The group has a musical style that combines melodic rock and indie tones with alternative, metal and progressive rock sounds. Major influences for the band include Muse, Faith No More, Mars Volta and U2. Dead Letter Circus has performed at many festivals throughout Australia, received significant national airplay and also toured extensively on their own headline tours.

Musexpo website - www.musexpo.net

Media contact: 3237 1944

20 February 2009