Interview with Front-man Charlie Powlett

Written by: Jimmy Wah | Sense Music Media

To describe EBONIVORY as an exceptional Australian progressive metal band would be a worthy acclamation… but it’s not that simple. Some have tried to define the band’s unique style as a mixture of alternative rock, post-hardcore, progressive metal and modern punk; but even then, that doesn’t really hit the mark. So upon the release of their second studio album, The Long Dream I, maybe we should hear from the mastermind behind EBONIVORY’s sound both on and off the stage, Charlie Powlett.

Before we get stuck into the interview, let me give you a bit of history. EBONIVORY was formed in 2014 by artist, musician, composer and vocalist Charlie Powlett in Ballarat, Victoria. He was joined by childhood friends and musicians Jake Ewings (Guitar), Emery Barker (Guitar/Vocals), Connor McMillan (Bass/Vocals) and David Parkes (Drums). They wasted no time, kicking off with the release of their self-titled EP, Ebonivory I, in the very same year that they formed, followed by the release of their first studio album The Only Constant in 2015 and second EP, Ebonivory II, in 2016. With the recent departure of Barker, they are now joined by Louis Edwards to form the Melbourne monolith we now know with the release of Part One of their Two-Part concept album The Long Dream.

I was fortunate enough to come into contact with these guys at the Oxford Art Factory in Sydney as they toured with CIRCLES during the Winter Tour of 2019 along with GLASS OCEAN and RED BEE. It was here I was blown away by their live sound for the very first time and had the opportunity to capture them on camera (see video above). Since listening to them more and more and watching their ever expanding portfolio of online content I now appreciate the technical proficiency of each of the musicians individually and as a group. From the explosive rhythmic syncopation of drums to the patterned, full-bodied union of guitars held up by an exciting underlying bass tone, the music is prodigious. Woven into it all are relatable vocals with a character that suitably captures a full range of emotions from soft, questioning, melodic suggestions to full blown guttoral screams. We caught up with the man behind the voice in through the magic of 1s and 0s from his studio in Ballarat.

The Interview

Download

The Long Dream I is now available on vinyl, cd and digital across all streaming services

Social Media

Check out EBONIVORY on Facebook and Instagram

EBONIVORY on Spotify