Interview by Kris Peters
Tumbleweed have been a mainstay on the Australian music scene for over three decades, having lasted through a plethora of music cycles, phases and periods of revolution.
Throughout all they have steadfastly stayed true to their music, refusing to conform nor bow to the powers that be, instead rightfully deciding to forge their own path in music and thus create their own identity.
It is a move that sees Tumbleweed as one of the last remaining rock icons from that era, with the band not only surviving through good times and bad, but also coming out stronger because of it.
While Tumbleweed have earned the right to pick and choose their live shows, public demand for their music is still high, ensuring they are invited to perform at many Australian festivals as a major drawcard.
So far this year, Tumbleweed have seldomly graced the stage, so much so that this weekend's headlining set at Sonic Rendezvous Record Store Day will be their first - and at this stage their only - gig in their hometown of Melbourne for 2024.
To be held at Welcome To Thornbury on High Street, Northcote this Saturday, April 20, Sonic Rendezvous Record Store Day is a sonic celebration of live music and vinyl records on one of the most important days of the year, Record Store Day.
Other bands appearing include Grinding Eyes from Sydney, acclaimed all-girl rockers Hot Machine, and a cast of other celebrated bands and DJ's. There will also be a record fair happening from 12pm to 4pm with 15 of Melbourne's best vinyl venders, food trucks, cold beers and countless other tasty delights, and all for the modest amount of $20.
To find out more about the show and what has been happening in the Tumbleweed world, HEAVY tracked down frontman Richie Lewis for an entertaining chat.
"It'll be great," he enthused. "My daughter's band is playing as well, Private Wives, they're on the bill so they will be really cool. They played with us down in Melbourne a couple of years ago, but they've gotten heaps better, so that will be amazing to see them doing their thing. Grinding Eyes, I've always been a big fan of. We actually did a 7" single with them a couple of years back, and we did a cover of an old 60s song called Pathway through The Forest, which is a wonderful song by a band called The Factory. We did a bunch of shows with Grinding Eyes a couple of years ago as well, and they are amazing live. I'm looking forward to seeing the other bands as well. I know of them. I've checked them out, but it will be the first time to see Hot Machine. It's gonna be pretty awesome. Twenty bucks? I mean, twenty bucks is a 1993 price (laughs). The whole vibe of Record Store Day is a good one. I'm a big fan of records. I like vinyl. I'm not a big fan of Spotify and digital stuff."
In the full interview, Richie discussed a variety of topics related to music and their personal experiences. He talked about the upcoming music event where Tumbleweed will be performing alongside other bands, expressing enthusiasm for the line-up and sharing past experiences with some of the bands. He also discussed the appeal of Record Store Day and the resurgence of vinyl records, expressing a strong preference for the tactile and communal experience of vinyl over the convenience of digital streaming services like Spotify.
The conversation also delved into the ethical considerations of supporting artists and the growing interest in vinyl records, ultimately emphasizing the positive and inclusive atmosphere of Record Store Day events, which cater to music enthusiasts of all ages. Additionally, he discussed the promotion of Richie's solo album and more.