After two EPs released in quick succession a few years ago, the five-piece band that makes up Sagamore have taken a couple of years pursuing inspiration across continents and recording their musical vision in the hills of Aireys Inlet. Setting up in one of Australia’s most picturesque national parks next February, the Grampians Music Festival (GMF) is bringing the Valley Stage back to the stunning paddock location in Halls Gap and Sagamore have scored a spot on the lineup. We chat to lead Sam Cooper ahead of the festival.
Hey, thanks for chatting to Forte Mag. First up, can you give us a quick intro to the band?
We are Sagamore, a five-piece soulful pop band who are all originally from the Geelong/Bellarine area. We’ve been around for a number of years now, released a couple of EPs and our debut album last year. We’re all very good friends and love making music together.
It’s been over a year now since you released your debut album Charlemont Reef. How’s the year been following its release? Have there been any particular highlights?
It’s been a good year. We launched the record with a four-piece horn section at the John Curtin Hotel in Melbourne, which was a blast. We then played a bunch of shows last summer at some beautiful coastal locations including the Wye River pub and the Apollo Bay Seafood Festival. Playing by the ocean is always a thrill.
Are you currently working on any new music?
Yes! We’ve got a couple of new bangers in the works. We’re actually going to jump in the studio a couple of days after Grampians Music Festival and bash them out. Hopefully, it’ll be a quick and painless process and we’ll release two new tracks on a 7-inch vinyl later in 2019.
Congrats on being included on the Grampians Music Festival lineup. Have you ever visited the Grampians before and/or the festival?
Yes. I played this year with another band I’m in called Crepes. Juliette who runs the festival did a magnificent job and we really enjoyed ourselves. The Halls Gap surroundings are stunning. It’s pretty special to be on stage and looking out to the magnificent Grampians rock faces.
You will also be performing alongside Sampa The Great, Angie McMahon, Slum Sociable, Wafia and many more. Any artists, in particular, you’re looking forward to seeing at the festival this year?
Bones and Jones and Jade Imagine will be terrific.
What do you like about performing at festivals (vibe, crowd, set etc.)?
It’s nice to play outdoors. Nothing beats the combination of the great Australian landscape and live music.
We’ve noticed you’ve just started gigging again after some downtime (including a slot at Hopkins Creek). Do you prefer performing live or creating music at home?
I prefer performing live for the spontaneity and various opportunities to display personal dancing prowess.
Thanks for chatting! To finish up, any hot camping/festival tips for anyone coming to GMF?
Bring some speedos to go for some refreshing dips in the many rock pools. As well as a sun hat and sunscreen for sun protection.
Grampians Music Festival goes down in Halls Gap from February 15 to 17 2019.
Visit grampiansmusicfestival.com/ for all the deets.