Castlemaine band/art project DEAD are set to launch their new LP ‘The Laughing Shadow’ with an art exhibit and all ages show at Oni Streetwear in Forest Street, Castlemaine tomorrow, October 1.
This will be the tenth album release for the local outfit which is headed up by Jem Ponussamy who works locally at HALT (Hope Assistance Local Tradies) on drums and landscaper Jace Rogers on bass and guitars.
Recorded in Campbells Creek at Sound Recordings by Mike Deslandes (Cosmic Psychos/ Tropical F**k Storm) the album also features talented local saxophonist Jenny Divers.
DEAD’s Jem Ponussamy said this album is a lot more orchestral than their previous metal offerings.
“We wrote and recorded the music during the covid lockdowns. It was a time when we were unable to attend funerals and we lost a number of friends and were unable to gather and celebrate their lives. This album really kind of channels those feelings and emotions,” Jem said.
“It is a lot more orchestrated, deliberately. It is like a 40 minute continuous piece, like a soundtrack each song blends together as a whole work,” he said.
Jem said the band has a backlog of material created during covid and has another couple of albums waiting in the wings.
The ‘The Laughing Shadow’ will also be released nationally in October via the band’s own label WeEmptyRooms.
To celebrate the release the band are teaming up with Oni Streetwear to present an all ages, alcohol free gig and art exhibit tomorrow.
Jem says Oni has been engaging with local youth and providing a safe and supportive space for them to work and express themselves.
“As part of the event we will exhibit original artworks from the album art and perform music from the new offering,” he said.
They will also be making T-shirts on demand at the show, featuring a unique design available at this show only.
Jem says it was important to them to create a live gig which was accessible to all and they hope it will be the first of many.
“Many live gigs are linked with alcohol consumption. Whilst were are not against alcohol we’ve seen the damage it can do to musicians.
“We want to provide an option where live music is more accessible and young people are not excluded. A space where they can enjoy and play music and create art and there is a positive focus on wellbeing,” he said.
Melbourne duo Thistleswitch will play also, returning to Castlemaine for the first time in ages.
The event will run from 3pm-6pm. Tickets are $22 Adults, $16 12-18 years. Under 12s are free but must be with a parent/guardian.
Grab your tickets or order your shirts at www.trybooking.com/CCBQT
