If a tree falls in the forest, but no one is there, does it still make a sound? So goes the ancient philosophical question. Forest Falls have come up with their own answer.
Words: John Van Klaveren
If the trees of the Otways could make a sound, they would sound like Forest Falls.
It’s easy to be wafted away to the beauty of the rain forest on the lush arrangements, rich vocals and flowing lyrics of the half-Geelong, half-Melbourne, part ex-Perth indie outfit.
The multi-instrumental skills of the band members, along with their thoughtful arrangements, give Forest Falls its soaring quality, adding an almost visual dimension to the sound.
The band’s latest EP, Hounds, supported by $10,000 of Pozible crowdfunding, is making inroads into the national music scene with rave reviews at every turn.
Lucy Rash, who brings keyboard, vocals, violin and guitar to the rehearsal room, says the sound is the product of the “deep desire to play music” in each of the six members.
“We have discovered that we all need each other to do that in the way we want to,” Rash explains.
The coming together of such disparate talents was a “six degrees of separation” moment after band founder Jon O’Neill moved from Perth and connected with drummer Jamie Daborn.
“Jamie knew Shaun (Stolk) who knew Gabe (Federico) who knew Jeremy (Hallett) – you get the picture,” Rash laughs.
“We all have a variety of influences and histories and bring them to our music. It’s an amazing environment; I’ve never been in a band with so many members.
“Being in a room with five other artists it always amazes me how many different ideas are flying around.
“This mixture of people is an ideal team environment because we all act as creative equals, inspiring each of us to listen to each other.
“It also means there’s always someone cracking the whip and making the musical decisions,” Rash added.
Read more in the Geelong Coast Magazine – out now.
