By CHERIE DONNELLAN
A foot in the door has become a place in the spotlight for teenage Ocean Grove garage band The Tiny Giants got after debuting in Queenscliff Music Festival’s emerging artists competition last year.
This year the young band has earned a place on the festival’s regular line-up, which features Australian music heavyweights such as John Butler Trio and The Living End.
But guitarist and vocalist Jasper Jolley said he was actually most looking forward to seeing local bands Frowning Clouds and The Murlocs on stage.
“We know them and they’re locals, so we love watching them play,” Jolley said.
The band also includes Etienne Mantelli as co-vocalist and bassist and George Wilson setting the beat with his drumming skills.
Their fresh talent has attracted attention further afield than the Bellarine Peninsula. Triple J radio Unearthed music director Dave Ruby Howe gave a rating of three out of five toThe Tiny Giants’ song Cigs and Wigs (Inspector Inspector).
“There’s some good stompy fuzz going on here and the singer, Jasper, has some unexpected growl to his vocals,” Howe said.
Jolley was pleased to read the review of Howe and Unearthed listeners.
“A lot of people are saying cool things. A few people have downloaded the song, too, since we chucked it up on Unearthed.”
Despite all three members being only 14 years of age, Jolley said they had been involved with music from a young age.
“All our parents have a lot to do with music.
“I started playing guitar at a young age and started singing in grade three to get involved in my school more.”
The trio formed after a few “jamming” sessions but music had since become serious for the band. Jolley said.
The band was now “focussing on [producing] an EP”, he revealed.
“Hopefully we can put that out toward the end of the year.”
The Tiny Giants will play at Queenscliff Music Festival on 2 November as part of the three-day event.
