By Justin Flynn
Fremantle-based singer/songwriter Carus Thompson will end 2018 with a bang by playing his final gig of the year at Ocean Grove’s Piping Hot Chicken and Burger Grill.
Following the successful release of his album ‘Island’ last year, Thompson said he can’t wait to get back to the Chook Shop on Saturday night.
“I think I’ve been playing the Chook Shop for maybe 10 years now,” he said.
“I love the intimacy of the venue. There is just an energy in the room always. You can connect with every member of the audience, and everyone feels like they are part of the show.
“I’ve played lots of big festivals and supports over the years, but my favourite venue for a show is always a small one. You can bring people down to quiet when you need, and then you can rev them up in an instant and bring the rock vibes.”
Thompson’s tour is taking him from Western Australia to Victoria and Tasmania.
“The best part about touring is getting to connect directly with your fan base in the live setting,” he said.
“You get to play your songs to them face to face. Nothing comes between you. The great thing about a live gig is it is completely now – everyone is in the moment and everyone in the room is having a communal experience together.”
Thompson said he loved the touring life, although the early flights were “a chore” and he missed his family.
“Otherwise I’d stay on the road forever.
“I love performing and I love meeting fans and hearing their stories and connecting with them after the show.”
Thompson said his Ocean Grove audience could expect a “rollicking good folk-rocking” night.
He also revealed his plans to record a new album in the UK next year.
“This tour I am on now will be the last in a while as the family and I are moving to England for three months next year,” Thompson said.
“I’ll record with my mate, Sean Lakeman, in his brother Seth Lakeman’s studio in the south-west of England. I’m going to get right into my folky side again.”
