In between sets at the SoCo festival on Saturday evening, I was able to catch up with Aussie band Sick Puppies. Lead singer and guitarist Shimon Moore explained that they were happy to be on the bill at Willow Island, citing that their popularity at an earlier stop in Atlanta aided in getting them attached to the tour.
So what does this bunch of kids think of our fine country? "We really love it -- the fans here are so dedicated and passionate!" says bassist Emma Anzai. She notes that they have met fans in the U.S. loyal enough to tattoo their lyrics on themselves -- something they never found among more laid-back fans in Australia. As they traverse this nation, the band members are continually writing new music they are able to record in the back of their tour bus.
Their inspiration? Without hesitation, Moore explains: "The stories of the fans we meet. The more we learn from the people we come across, the more we recognize that everyone has a story."
The Sick Puppies are currently on an indefinite tour in support of their new album Dressed Up as Life. More of its music, as well as their touring schedule, can be found at their MySpace page, including the song "All the Same," which also comes in the form of a music video about free hugs that is worth a look.