By TANIA PHILLIPS
BACK in the late ’70s, early ’80s a band of teens played their first gigs in the Community Hall at Kingscliff. That band was the Sunnyboys and they went on to become one of the best-known bands in the country.
This weekend – nine acts of young performers will line up to play at the small community hall on Marine Parade.
The AFEX Winter Warm Up, which features a plethora of young performers and is the brain child of local teen musician Jay Varudo, a Kingscliff High School student.
The AFEX Winter Warm Up will feature nine acts from all different music genres from Acoustic duo’s to Grunge Rock.
“The real thing that motivated me to do this was the lack of opportunities in the music scene for teenagers,” Jay said.
“Not just for the people watching but for the musicians.
“I try and do these gigs to help some of the bands who have just started up and don’t really know what it’s like to experience playing live.
“As for who gets involved I get help from all bands that are playing as well as a few family members. “This gig we have a nine band/act line-up starting with Ryan Wayne – drummer/beat boxer, The Smears – comedy duo, Compass From 1801 – acoustic duo, The Iconic Outfits – grunge, Goodbye Gravity – rock, Tom Dodd – guitar soloist (think John Butler), Ben Paulson – rapper, The Vultures – blues/rock, The AFEX – alternative rock.”
Jay said all the acts were just starting out.