Multi award winning band tours
By Sonia Isaacs
CAPTIVATING audiences across the country with their extraordinary vocal harmonies, outstanding musicianship, and a seamless blend of traditional and original bluegrass and folk songs, multi-award-winning Haystack Mountain Hermits are bringing their electrifying live show to local stages this month.
Renowned for their performances filled with energy, warmth, and heartfelt storytelling, the acclaimed family band promises an unforgettable musical experience. This six-piece group comprises parents Kerrie Gambley and Dave Church along with their four adult children, Ella, Lachlan, Marcus, and Jackson. This multi-talented family of accomplished musicians has been enthralling audiences for 14 years with their unique brand of folk-infused bluegrass.
“There’s just something so special about singing with your family,” says Kerrie, the band’s primary songwriter. “We call it ‘blood harmony’ – that incredible connection you get when you’re performing with people you’re so closely related to.”
The group’s performance origins trace back to a seven-month trip around Australia, where the then inexperienced musicians began busking their way across the country. “None of the kids had really played any instruments besides piano,” Kerrie said. “But they picked up the strings as we went, and the band just evolved from there.”
Now seasoned performers, the group has graced the stages of major Australian festivals like Woodford, the National Folk Festival, and even took out the busking competition at Tamworth. But Kerrie insists the greatest thrill comes from simply sharing the stage with her loved ones.
“I still get goosebumps looking around and seeing my family up there with me,” she says. “That’s the real peak moment, regardless of the accolades or the venues we play.”
The band’s sound has evolved over the years, moving from a more eclectic mix to a strong focus on folk-infused bluegrass. Kerrie credits the genre’s “jazz-like” potential for showcasing the group’s instrumental prowess and tight vocal harmonies.
“Bluegrass really allows us to highlight the individual talents of the band members, especially the younger ones,” she explains. “And those family harmonies – there’s just something so powerful about that blood connection coming through in the music.”
With a debut full-length album in the works, Haystack Mountain is gearing up for an exciting run of shows on the Sunshine Coast. While the band has played numerous major festivals, these local gigs will mark their first time performing at dedicated music venues in the region.
“We’re really looking forward to connecting with some new audiences and sharing our sound,” Kerrie said.
Maleny Community Centre Thursday 20 March, 7pm
Eudlo Hall Sunday 23 March, 4pm
Full Event Details: redchair.com.au