Lovers of Australian power pop and punk rock darlings The Stems, Hoodoo Gurus and The Screaming Tribesmen are in for a treat as self-described “trans-Australian rock” supergroup The On and Ons arrive in town this Friday.
Fronted by ex-Tribesman Glenn Morris, the Sydney based band is a collection of musicians with an incredible Oz rock pedigree.
Garage rock heritage comes in the form of guitarist Richard Lane, formerly a founding member of iconic 80s Perth band The Stems.
Chatting to the Mail last week, Lane said the enthusiasm for taking the stage had not diminished in the slightest.
“It’s always great to be playing, this band has been in the tubes for about five years and we’re all thrilled to be getting on the road,” the affable multi-instrumentalist said.
“We’re scattered across the country; I live in Fremantle, and we have members in Queensland, Victoria and New South Wales.
Lane met the members of the then-Paul Collins Beat backing band while in Sydney and established the foundations of the On and Ons before heading home to the West.
“I’ve run a music school here in Freo for around seven years, where we focus a lot on local music using young, vibrant musicians from around the town.
Lane said he was looking forward to getting out on the road for the tour, which will take the band to Margaret River, Bunbury, Rottnest Island and his hometown of Fremantle.
After living in Margaret River for a 12 month period nearly a decade ago, Lane said he possessed a deep appreciation for the region’s music scene and hoped the Settlers show would attract some new fans from the area.
“Hopefully the newer, younger audiences can appreciate what we’re bringing to the table, as well as the punters who remember us from our earlier days.
“We’re having a lot of fun, I get to jump from instrument to instrument and we’ve got some pretty impressive four-part harmonies going on as well.
“I love going to gigs with a good cross section of ages and music tastes, and it’s always good to see a few of the old crew showing their support.”
The On and Ons play Settlers Tavern this Friday July 8 from 9pm. Entry is free.