The sheer amount of talent that has stemmed from Australian bands during (and before) COVID is nothing short of amazing and when bands put their efforts into multiple projects, it goes to show just how much talent there is to showcase in our little country!
Nick Adams is a busy man, playing in both Justice For The Damned and Whatever Forever - which are on two completely different ends of the musical genre spectrum - and he still managed to take time out of his busy schedule to keep us in the know of what he was frothing music-wise during the past year and how he kept himself busy.
A true fighter who wasn't prepared to get a little pandemic get in the way of his creative process, we HAD to find out how he fared over the pandemic and the advice he has for others in similar positions...
TOP 5 RELEASES OF 2021
(in no particular order)
Third Chain by Soul Blind
A Tear in the Fabric of Life by Knocked Loose
Fortitude by Gojira
God’s Hate by God’s Hate
Showmetherealyou by Moodring
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3p85-KtgDSs
TOP 5 SONGS OF 2021
(in no particular order)
'Resentment' by Kublai Khan
'Pandora' by Fit For An Autopsy
'Inhumane Harvest' by Cannibal Corpse
'Blue Sunday' by Citizen
'We See U' by Speed
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9l2j3JUKa_M
BEST MUSIC VIDEO OF 2021
Best music video this year is by far the clip for 'We See U' by Speed. Shot by Sydney’s own Jack Rudder. There’s no crazy effects or big budget on this thing, it’s got what no amount of money can buy; pure and authentic character. Those guys just getting together and being themselves in absolutely fantastic fashion. It’s a must watch!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JXXClXofCCw
LAST GIG YOU PLAYED BEFORE COVID HIT?
The very last gig I played before the first of the Covid-19 Lockdowns was a headline show in Brisbane for Whatever, Forever. It was the last show of the tour and at that point, Covid had been making its way around the world for a few months and everyone knew about it so there was a feeling in the air at the shows. The lockdowns were just about set around the country so it really felt like that last gasp of air before going underwater.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dvgchvRpi2E
HOW DO YOU FEEL ABOUT RETURNING TO THE STAGE?
Luckily in 2021 I was able to squeeze in almost a whole tour with Justice! This meant we could break the ice on playing live again after a long break so this time around it feels similar and I know that the moment I’m walking over to my amp & slinging my guitar over my shoulder, I can switch off my mind and let my body do the rest.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CP1n-P2A9XD/
HOW DID YOU STAY BUSY THROUGHOUT THE PAST TWO YEARS?
For a start, I played a lot of guitar and kept busy writing with both bands. I just love having a guitar in my hands, it’s a part of me that remained regardless of whether shows existed or not. Then toward the end of 2020 I jumped into a clerical job in a Law Firm which I do full time although I anticipate I’ll be reducing the hours a fair bit due to touring in 2022. Lastly, I took up Judo at the beginning of this year. Once 2020 was over and shows still a long way away, I really needed a new place to direct my energy and Judo has been excellent in giving me new challenges to take on!
BEST ADVICE GOING INTO 2022?
My best advice going into the new year, from one humble human to another, would be to remember to take it slow and enjoy a moment in the present once in a while, tell your friends & family that you love them often and for no reason, move your body when possible, make time to read, eat lots of vegetables & drink lots of water.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CSY5LxBBFV2/
WHAT ARE YOU MOST LOOKING FORWARD TO IN 2022?
In 2022 I’m mostly looking forward to returning to life as a touring musician. I spent so many years becoming that person and I can’t wait to walk in those shoes again! I’m also excited to work on some personal goals and soak up every minute with friends & family! In particular, Justice For The Damned’s bass player, Ben, had a baby earlier this year and unfortunately we haven’t had a chance to hang out with little Oliver very much due to the last lockdown so we’ve got some time to make up for!
Written by Nick Adams @circling.a.hole.in.the.ground
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