BMA BAND PROFILE Group members: Lily Begbie: Vocals Luca Florez: Vocals/guitar Kieran O’Leary: Drums Nelson Stannard: Keys Harrison Whalan: Bass/Mum Where did the band name come from? Muesli just came from a random word generator. We wish we had a better story but we don’t. As with all names we kind of grew into it after a while. We keep it crunchy and funky and hope to contribute to everyone’s healthy musical diet!
We are also inspired by our college music teacher Ms Zimpel. She has provided countless opportunities for us to perform and grow as musicians, and is never afraid to give us constructive criticism. Most of all, we inspire each other to be better musicians and people. What are some memorable experiences you’ve had as a band? A week before lockdown 2.0, we were closing a free show at sideway. We advertised the show reasonably well, and we expected a decent crowd. What we weren’t expecting was a line of 50 people outside, waiting to be let in to see us perform. And we certainly weren’t expecting people singing our songs while we performed. This show was a big turning point for us, as it made us realise that people outside of our immediate circles enjoy our music.
How did you form?
What is it that you love about the scene? Your genre’s scene?
We all went to school at St. Francis Xavier College. Harrison graduated in 2019 and was brought back to run the school’s funk band in 2020. Everyone else was a part of this funk band, which is how we all met and bonded over our love for music.
We love the fantastic venues, incredible bands, and welcoming fans that make up the Canberra music scene.
One day, Luca brought one of his original songs I Wanna Be in Love With You. We jammed on it for about an hour, and it sounded so good we thought we had to make a band. We’ve been gigging since November 2020 and have no plans of stopping anytime soon! Describe your sound: Unapologetic upbeat pop and funk. We pride ourselves on creating a sound that makes us, and our audience, smile. Who/What are your influences, musical and/or otherwise? Harrison loves Vulfpeck (especially Joe Dart) , Lily loves Lake Street Dive, Kieran loves Anderson Paak, Luca loves Rex Orange County, and Nelson loves Coldplay.
PAGE 16
We are spoiled for choice with music venues in Canberra. These venues available to us are of such a high standard, especially for bands that are just breaking into the scene. The sound quality is fantastic, lighting is excellent, and the staff are so welcoming and hospitable. We particularly love Smith’s Alternative, sideway, and the White Eagle Polish Club. All the bands that we’ve had the privilege of performing with are always kind, cooperative, and supportive. And of course, the musicianship is excellent. The fans that come and support local music are exceptional. Especially those who aren’t afraid to get up and dance to some funky tunes and get involved no matter their background. The vast variety of people we have at our gigs is reflective of Canberra’s inclusive attitude, and music scene.