DANA GEHRMAN
How were you first introduced to your instrument/when did you first start singing?
I have been singing for as long as I can remember. Even as a small child I would spend time dancing around the garden amusing myself making up little melodies. It took me much longer to pick up the guitar, but I did enjoy many years air guitaring to my favourite records blasting through vintage Tannoy speakers in cabinets larger than life.
The current band line-up got together in 2021 in prep to record our latest album Down In Hollywood… I love these humans dearly and making music together feels truly special.
Describe your music: 70’s inspired Roots-Rock-Boogie sometimes with a cosmic twist. Good road trip music, I love being on the road, music up, windows down… I think that has influenced our current sound.
What inspires you to write a song?
Normally it’s a groove, riff or drum beat first. I do most of my writing when I can secure a chunk of time alone, separating myself from the daily grind. I’ve been bashing out my latest ideas on the piano, I’m a terrible keys player, but it offers a fresh perspective.
What has been your favourite moment of your music journey so far?
Every show I get to play with my friends is a great moment… but it feels real good when you read, ‘Hammond Organ with Leslie Speaker’ on the tech rider. Ha! I did get the opportunity to play at The Troubadour in LA last year though, and that brought tears to my eyes.
What’s your favourite song to play live? Own or cover.
‘Easy to Slip’ – Little Feat. What. A. Banger.
Who are your most important musical influences?
Little Feat, Bonnie Raitt, Linda Ronstadt, Eagles, John Martyn, Ry Cooder… It’s hard to narrow it down, I enjoy and listen to lots of different genres of music. When I was a kid, it was The Beatles that first got me really obsessed with sound. Come Together!
What are your three favourite albums of all time?
Oooh so many! Thinking quick… definitely, Little Feat – Down on The Farm and John Martyn Solid Air. Recently, Dorothy Ashby – Afro Harping has been on high rotation.
Who are you looking forward to catching live at Dashville Skyline this year?
Hurray for the Riff Raff, Jeb Cardwell, Emma Donovan, Ella Hooper and The Counterfeit. Gonna be a good time!
Latest release: SINGLE ‘Let It Be You’
Website: https://danagehrman.com/
Bandcamp: https://danagehrman.bandcamp.com/music
Dashville Skyline takes place October 4-6, 2024 in Lower Belford, Hunter Valley NSW. Dana Gehrman plays Friday 4th.