Once in a while there will appear a person with the ability to produce an atmosphere and excitement that results, more often than not, in a kick-ass party. It appears that Bryce Spratling, aka Bad News Toilet, has that ability. Wielding an arsenal of classic mash-ups and a drunken stagehand and a big ol’ pile of costumes, Bad News Toilet tears apart clubs in a messy whirlwind of hilarity.
Hailing from the golden town of Ballarat and picked from the mixed bag of talent that is Karova Lounge, Bad News Toilet is slowly leaving a trail of beer-soaked costumes throughout venues, and will soon be leaving his mark on Ballarat and Bendigo. I managed to catch Bryce mid-internet-breakdown for a chat about all the fun he’s been having.
There’s always an element of danger whenever alcohol is combined with any sort of coordinated movements; trying to get drunken people in and out of costumes whilst deejaying almost guarantees people, drinks and equipment ending up all over the floor.
The main facet of Bryce’s sets involves coordinating costumes with relating song mash-ups. Due to the difficult nature of this task, stagehand Sam joined Bad News Toilet. “I did my first gig at Karova and I needed someone to help me get people out of the crowd, so my cousin said he would help. People kind of get the idea that they can just jump up on stage while a costume change is happening, and it’s kinda difficult ’cos you don’t wanna be a jerk and tell people to get off. Sam has a full-on costume now that seems to help people realise what is actually happening, and they seem to cooperate more now.”
As happens, Bryce’s talents are not limited to convincing people to dress up and dance on stage; film and photography also seem to tickle his fancy. Bryce’s combined interests have led to him being a main facilitator in the making of a full-length film documenting the Ballarat music scene. With the 10th birthday of Karova Lounge looming, to tribute the music scene he has grown with seems just as important as any other facet of life.
“Karova Lounge is great, it’s like the only place in Ballarat that allows for different genres and lets people experiment a bit. That’s where all the like-minded people meet and start bands and stuff. The film has been put on a bit of a hiatus at the moment. I’m trying to find another film dude to help out but with all the Bad News Toilet stuff goin’ on I’m pretty busy, but it should be back on again shortly and we can finish it. Definitely trying to get that out really soon to represent that Karova’s been around for 10 years.”
It’s no secret that Ballarat has the substance to produce talent and enthusiasm such as Bryce’s, spreading creative new musical projects across Australia and the world. Bryce’s next costume-laden adventure is set to be one of his biggest yet, so don’t miss out.
When&Where: The Karova, Ballarat – April 12 & Star Bar, Bendigo – April 17.
Written by Xavier Fennell