Blue Mountains News

“ECHO is an opportunity to see the best of Blue Mountains young musical talent, and it gives young musicians the chance to gain performance experience,” Mayor Mark Greenhill said. “We know from our research that young people would like to see more live music and have more opportunities to perform outside of pubs.”

“We received an incredible 31 expressions of interest from young performers throughout the Mountains. Five acts were selected via a panel including Council, Youth Council, and community representatives.”

The selected performers are:

Flock 19:  Korowal school’s own funk band brings classic grooves and energy with a broad repertoire ranging from Stevie Wonder classics to modern funk by Vulfpeck.

Billy Parsons: His distinctive guitar style and vocals express feeling through his own songs and diverse covers, with sounds drawn from soul music and heavily influenced by rock, RnB and blues.

Lyrelyre:  An indie/pop/rock band made up of lifelong friends with a shared love of music. Through a dynamic mix of original songs and reimagined covers, they craft a sound that feels both fresh and familiar.

Deadly Descendants Crew:  A creative rap group DDC, also known as Deadly Descendants Crew, consists of two individuals, RDF and CAPT, who create powerful and moving tracks to get the bass pumping.

Melody Mckee: Melody has been playing and writing music for as long as she can remember, blending a pop-influenced sound with elements of her own.

The selection panel remarked on the high standard of entries. Panellist Reyhn Marvin said “The talent of the musicians involved is mind boggling. It’s a great opportunity for the community to come together to celebrate these upcoming artists.

MTNS MADE will also be running a free youth filmmaking workshop from Matt Jackson, a filmmaker with years of experience, including the SBS docuseries American Candy. Matt will teach the skills to turn live music into video and techniques such as framing, lighting, movement and exposure. No experience needed, just creativity and a phone. Spaces are limited, so bookings are essential.

ECHO is on Saturday 15 November, 12pm-3pm at Blue Mountains Cultural Centre, Katoomba (Wet Weather venue will be Tibbi Whalan Hall, Civic Arcade Katoomba). All are welcome at this free drug and alcohol-free event and there is no need to register.

The filmmaking workshop, Intro to Video Production for Young People, is at the Seminar Room from 10.15am-3.45pm (limited spaces, registration required).

To find out more, go to:here