Bio/press
Born (1967) and raised in London Mike immigrated to Perth, Australia with his family at the age of thirteen. It was Mike's sister's cheap classical guitar which drew him to his first explorations in music. During his early twenties Mike's musical journey was deepened after meeting the sensational Indonesian session guitarist Dilli Rihenna in the unlikely Aboriginal township of Roebourne, WA.
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"Dilli's approach to learning the guitar was to revolutionise my whole musical experience. His thorough understanding of the mechanics of music and the functions of the guitar inspired me to follow suit."
The North West town of Karratha proved to be fertile soil in which Mike's early live experiences could develop into a solid repertoire of early Blues standards. Utilising both Dobro Resonator Guitar and Acoustic Guitar, from time to time he would perform at the Walkington Theatre where he was able to support and learn from a number of significant travelling Australian artists and groups. Still in the North West, by 1999 Mike had formed a partnership with harmonica player Mark Whinnen and a duo called "The Mudcats" was born. The Mudcats developed a good reputation in the area for performing vibrant Delta and Texas style blues.Mike is currently living in Fremantle, Western Australia, and regularly performs as a solo artist utilising bluesy vocals, harmonica (employed in a neck brace), 12 string, resonator, lap steel, acoustic guitars and a stomp box (basically a miked wooden box for a kick drum effect!).
Incorporating elements as varied as Piedmont Blues, subtle Jazz, delta style blues, folk and even Indian ragas, Mike's musical style has become somewhat more eclectic in recent years. Live shows are a powerful showcase of this rootsy, earthy style. Musicianship, professionality and commanding vocal and instrumental delivery provide a captivating showcase for the discerning listener.
Mike has just self produced his latest album "Frontline" and features on all guitars, lap steel, harmonica, bass, vocals and keyboards. Drums and percussion are eloquently played by Dean Wuksta, an earlier member of the popular Western Australian outfit the Blue Shaddy Band.
Hightlights
Bridgetown Blues Festival 2003, 2004, 2005
Live en Aout (Jazz Festival) Noumea, New Caledonia 2006
Nannup Folk Festival 2007
Included in the WAMI compilation CD 2006
Araleun Blues in the Park 2007
Westcoast Blues And Roots Fringe Festival 2007, 2008
Fairbridge Folk Festival 2008
Tracks from the album, "On a Backdrop of Silence" included in ABC documentary for Stateline
Played on ABC Radio "Daily Planet".
Featured artist on BAR 1 CD (Blues and Roots Promotions CD)
Provided support entertainment for Deborah Conway, Lucky Oceans, Nathan Cavalieri, Vdelli, The Ragabillys, Blue Shaddy, Bondi Cigars, Dave Mann Collective, Ivan Zar, Derrin Nuaendorf, Wolf Mail and The Waifs.