At Sunset are brothers, Harrison and Andrew Kantarias, and their good friend, Tom Jay Williams. Having just finished up a run of shows around the country supporting international heartthrobs R5 and The Vamps, plus their own headline dates in Adelaide and Melbourne, Australia’s hottest new pop rock trio now head to Sydney (The Lair on March 19 ) and Brisbane (Old Museum on March 20) in support of their new single, Kiss Me. Vocalist Tom Williams took some time to answer a few questions for us.
What was your first gig?
My first gig was at my Primary School in Adelaide. I sang a solo in front of my whole class! It was so scary! I remember even now at the time thinking that this was exciting and something I would want to do more of.
What microphone do you use on stage generally?
On stage I use a Sennheiser e945. I like the high end that it picks up compared to some other mics. It really works well to pick up the tones in my voice.
Is it the same for recording?
I usually just use what’s In the studio at the time to be honest. It Gives different vibes to the songs because they are all being recorded in different rooms with different mics.
What’s your latest recording and when will you be back in the studio?
My band At Sunset just released our latest called ‘Kiss Me’! And we’re currently in the studio recording demos as we speak.
What gigs have you been playing lately?
We just came off the R5 tour and a support with The Vamps which was crazy. We also just got back from a tour to the Philippines for some shows which Was absolutely insane! We have a lot of fans in the Philippines so it will be great to finally be able to get up there and meet everyone!
Most memorable gig?
My most memorable gig to date would have to be plying the Mall Of America in Minneapolis. It was our first time playing a mall show in the states and about two thousand people rocked up to see us play! It was crazy! Especially when some of the biggest artists in the world play this stage. We’re now also on their wall of fame next to people like One Direction and the Jonas Brothers which is pretty awesome!
Worst stage nightmare?
My worst nightmare on stage would have to be my Voice breaking. It happens sometimes. But I try to steer well away!
Album that changed your life?
Bee Gees greatest hits. I love this album because I listened to it growing up with my dad. It was one of the albums that would be in the car and we would sing songs like ‘Words’ together. The music always inspired me to want to sing
What gigs are coming up in the next few months?
We have a Australian headline tour through March which will be really awesome!
A vocal tip for the kids?
You should always warm up! Your voice is like the legs of a runner. If they don’t stretch they won’t be able to run.
Look after your voice. Do your scales to warm up. I like to start with a low hum for about a minute before continuing on to scales. It just vibrates your voice box and warms it right up.