When The Warratahs went into the studio to record their new single "Silver Train”, it was the last time the band would play together with drummer of 20 years, Micheal Knapp.
He passed away unexpectedly a few days later.
“We had all been together for over 20 years, and this was wrenching blow, very unexpected. However, we decided we wanted to release this as a tribute, and to help us say goodbye to him” ( Barry Saunders)
36 years ago The Warratahs played, what turn out to be, the first of many nights at Wellington’s Cricketers Arms Hotel. The band quickly had an audience and they also found a sound of their own with a stripped back band playing a brand of country/ folk with the fire of 50’s style rock and roll.
Based around Barry Saunders voice and songs and Nik Brown’s ability to set the music alight with his violin, this has remained the landscape of the Warratahs sound.
To date, the band have released 9 Studio albums, which include some of New Zealand’s most loved classic songs. Songs that became the forerunners to the Americana sound that is so popular in New Zealand today.
Listen to “ Maureen” and “Hands On My Heart”
The Warratahs current line up is:
Barry Saunders, Nick Brown, Nick Theobald and Alan Norman
Silver Train was recorded at Massey Studios, Wellington. Engineered by Mike Gibson.
Filmed at Loho Studios Christchurch.
The Warratahs are part of The Gore Country Music Club’s 50th Anniversary Celebrations,
Playing at the Gore Town and Country Club Oct 20th.
Find The Warratahs : Spotify | Apple Music | YouTube | Facebook| Bandcamp