OLD Bar Festival's Ocean Rhythms musical festival will host a mix of local and national artists on March 12 at Old Bar Reserve. The Manning River Times caught up with members of two of these bands to hear their stories.
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Alyse Gray of Tuncurry describes her sound as a mix between rock 'n roll and folk.
"It's actually changed a bit lately," said Alyse, who has swapped playing solo, for playing with a band.
Alyse explains some of her original songs have also been given a new spin due to recording her songs for the incoming release of her first album Proprioception.
The album name's comes from a personal meaning to Alyse.
"I have a functional movement disorder," explained Alyse.
"This affects the communication between my brain and my muscles and proprioception is defined as the unconscious perception of movement."
Alyse is looking forward to releasing her album at the time of the festival, and playing it live.
Alyse thinks that locally there is a real want for live music.
"People want to hear new and original music and they are so responsive to our local musicians.
"We are so lucky to have such a range of talented musicians, it's like a treasure trove of music."
The treasure trove will be on full display at Ocean Rhythms with a huge mix of exciting live acts.
One of these bands, Harry's Lookout, originally formed in Newcastle, but founder Jacob Cook now lives in Old Bar and is one of the organisers of Ocean Rhythms.
Harry's Lookout lead guitarist Kane Schiller says the band's music has a seventies vibe and fits in the blues and roots genre, with a bit of rock.
"The band has chopped and changed in the 10 years since it began, and right now I would say it's at its rockiest sound," he said.
Kane adds the band loves making the trip up to play in the Manning Valley.
"They really look after you in the country, they are so happy to have you there," he said.
Harry's Lookout last year played the Old Bar Beach Festival, which Kane thinks is a great event for bringing the community together.
"Festivals are great for small towns, it can really help put the place on the map, plus everyone loves live music," he said.
Tickets for Ocean Rhythms can be purchased online at Mosh Tix or at Iguana Surfwear in Taree or The Bird Tree in Old Bar. Tickets are $20 per person and under 16s are free when accompanied by a ticket holding adult.
