Les Thomas Album Launch w/ Clare Cowley

“Les Thomas's superpower is as a lyricist ... Always with something powerful to say.” - Ruth Hazleton

Les Thomas is a Melbourne-born country-folk troubadour, but he isn't just a singer-songwriter. He's a sonic storyteller, an activist bard, and a lyrical luminary. He follows in a long tradition using music as medicine, solidarity and sustenance.

As an original artist, writer and event host, Les has been centrally involved in Melbourne's vibrant music scene for over a decade. Outside the venues, festivals and countless political events in his home state, he’s shared songs in Tamworth's bustling streets and pubs and ventured as far afield as the community halls of Seattle. He's even made the pilgrimage to the sacred grounds of The Bluebird Cafe in Nashville, where musical legends are minted.

But it's not just Les's travels that tell his story. His latest album, "All My Friends are Superstars” is a combined effort with Stephen Grady of The Ahern Brothers on production and an array of extraordinary musicians including Jy-Perry Banks on pedal steel, Jason Bunn (Australian Chamber Orchestra) on strings and Justin Olsson on drums. It's a testament to his songwriting prowess and his commitment to crafting beautiful and inspiring songs. With a resonant voice that carries the weight of the world's stories, Les looks forward to sharing his new collection with fresh ears and eager hearts, inviting new audiences into his unique blend of country-folk Americana rock and his world of rich experiences.

ABOUT CLARE COWLEY

With velvety vocals, Meanjin based country-blues musician and visual artist, Clare Cowley, originally from Allora, Queensland, summons the spirit of folk music. Evoking the likes of Norah Jones and Sarah Blasko, the captivating Singer-Songwriter, weaves lyrical musings into dynamic performances featuring bluesy guitar, smoky piano and harmonica. HAPPY MAG says, "Her songwriting holds a rare hypnotic quality, enchanting listeners with sing-along abilities that seem to possess hidden magic, like ancient folk tunes whispered through the ages". 

Supported by a dedicated fanbase, Clare released blues-inspired debut album 'To The Bottom' in 2020 and crowdfunded a tour upon sharing singles ‘Like The Muse’ and ‘Black Seeds’ with her audience. Clare then released folky driving tune ’Song Material’ produced with Easy Machine Recordings (positioned  in the 4ZZZ hottest 100). Swiftly answering her audience's appetite for more, with brooding single ‘My Reason’. In 2023, produced by Dylan Jeffreys, Clare’s sophomore album, Desire Notes has been celebrated with sellout shows in intimate venues across Qld and NSW.