Toucan

Tell us about your music - how did you develop your sound?

Music for us is about following our instincts. We generally start at the piano, bouncing ideas around before we start the recording process. It’s then about experimenting with sounds and creating something that feels good.

What are your earliest memories of seeing live Australian music?

Jess: It should have been The Living End when they were touring their Second Solution EP, but my parents wouldn’t let me go. 'Prisoner Of Society' is one of the first songs that got me into music. Shea: Jon English, in Pirates of Penzance at the State Theatre when I was 6.

What’s the best advice you’ve been given and who was it from?

“Keep it simple and work hard to play hard.” – A classic dad quote courtesy of Jess’ dad.

Tell us about the bands and people in the Sydney music scene that inspire you.

The whole Sydney music community is pretty inspiring but we are probably most inspired by our friends and the great things they are doing: Mrs Bishop - These boys have voices of angels with hearts to match. Boy & Bear - There’s probably no need for an explanation for this one, everyone already knows there’s no stopping these guys. Guineafowl - These guys put on the best live show we’ve seen recently (and the drummer’s a total heartthrob!) Alchohotlicks - Their in-your-face sound is really addictive.

What’s coming up in 2011?

Toucan is a relatively young project but the last couple of months have been moving really quickly. 2011 is about getting the Toucan drum beating. First priority is an EP then we are looking to start touring.

Australian music is?

Eclectic. On any given night, you can find completely different and equally talented bands on the same bill.