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» member profile:
rleatherman
» genre:
Country >
Country-Pop
» location:
Richard Leatherman
» label: unsigned
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Crakajak
NEWS
Well folks another Tamworth bites the dust
Happy to say that all went well for the band and the reaction to our new Album 10 was awesome.
We road tested most of the new songs and have returned full of confidence, and pumped for a huge 2006.
Once again West Leagues Club and the New Diggers RSL were huge, the late night party "went off" and as per normal the more energy coming from the audience the more pumped the band got.
In fact one night at Diggers I actually slipped off the stage and into the crowd. Some call it stage diving, the rest of the boys call it plain clumsy.
Our 1st time at Tamworth Services Club was also very successful. Theses shows were during the day and early evening and probably attracted a more listening type of audience but again the new songs were well received and at the end of each set people were lining up to get a copy of Ten.
The Fitzroy Tavern and Southgate Inn were also busy and again surprised us with the different types of audiences we encounter.
The highlight for us outside our own shows were a new band called The Pigs. What an awesome Band. I won't even try to explain their show but in the 8 years I have been going to Tamworth I have never been as entertained as I was watching theses guys.
The Pigs followed us at Diggers and all the Crakajak boys stayed back to watch these guys blow the crowds away. In fact usually we leave Gigs pretty much after our show because we are so tired, but
1 listen to the Pigs and we were all hooked.
Take my advise Folks if you get a chance, catch this band ... they are really cool and very very talented.
You just have too see them.......
Great to also catch up with our mate Kevin Bloody Wilson and all his crew. Once again Kevs invited us to his show we and watched this aussie legend blow the huge crowds away with his humour and songs. We also celebrated long into the night with Kev, Mike, Hollywood Dizzy and Dave Prior which made it really hard to get up the next day. Thanks guys we love getting together with you fellows .
A special mention and thank you To Marcie Jones who got up with us at a few shows and really wooed the crowds. Marcie has been singing and entertaining for many years and boy oh boy can she fire up an audience. Thanks Marcie...
Finally to all our fans and friends who showed up to our gigs....we cannot thank you all enough for your loyal support. Some of you were at all our 11 show which is just unbelievable but believe me we really do notice and appreciate your support.
I hope you all get as much pleasure listening to our new Album Ten as we did delivering the song to you on stage.
Please keep your eye on this website because we have some really exciting announcements to make over the next few months and there will be lots of action going on this year to coincide with the release of Ten.....WATCH THIS SPACE
Hope to see you all soon
Lots of Love
Harry, Tony, Mark, Jason,Steve, Rick, Rob and all the Crakajak Crew
Happy to say that all went well for the band and the reaction to our new Album 10 was awesome.
We road tested most of the new songs and have returned full of confidence, and pumped for a huge 2006.
Once again West Leagues Club and the New Diggers RSL were huge, the late night party "went off" and as per normal the more energy coming from the audience the more pumped the band got.
In fact one night at Diggers I actually slipped off the stage and into the crowd. Some call it stage diving, the rest of the boys call it plain clumsy.
Our 1st time at Tamworth Services Club was also very successful. Theses shows were during the day and early evening and probably attracted a more listening type of audience but again the new songs were well received and at the end of each set people were lining up to get a copy of Ten.
The Fitzroy Tavern and Southgate Inn were also busy and again surprised us with the different types of audiences we encounter.
The highlight for us outside our own shows were a new band called The Pigs. What an awesome Band. I won't even try to explain their show but in the 8 years I have been going to Tamworth I have never been as entertained as I was watching theses guys.
The Pigs followed us at Diggers and all the Crakajak boys stayed back to watch these guys blow the crowds away. In fact usually we leave Gigs pretty much after our show because we are so tired, but
1 listen to the Pigs and we were all hooked.
Take my advise Folks if you get a chance, catch this band ... they are really cool and very very talented.
You just have too see them.......
Great to also catch up with our mate Kevin Bloody Wilson and all his crew. Once again Kevs invited us to his show we and watched this aussie legend blow the huge crowds away with his humour and songs. We also celebrated long into the night with Kev, Mike, Hollywood Dizzy and Dave Prior which made it really hard to get up the next day. Thanks guys we love getting together with you fellows .
A special mention and thank you To Marcie Jones who got up with us at a few shows and really wooed the crowds. Marcie has been singing and entertaining for many years and boy oh boy can she fire up an audience. Thanks Marcie...
Finally to all our fans and friends who showed up to our gigs....we cannot thank you all enough for your loyal support. Some of you were at all our 11 show which is just unbelievable but believe me we really do notice and appreciate your support.
I hope you all get as much pleasure listening to our new Album Ten as we did delivering the song to you on stage.
Please keep your eye on this website because we have some really exciting announcements to make over the next few months and there will be lots of action going on this year to coincide with the release of Ten.....WATCH THIS SPACE
Hope to see you all soon
Lots of Love
Harry, Tony, Mark, Jason,Steve, Rick, Rob and all the Crakajak Crew
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The Band used to run a law firm but our wives told us to get a real job (- : joking. Since its formation in 1996 Crakajak has delivered one of the most exciting and energetic Americana style music shows in Australia. This “audience friendly” band is committed to delivering a unique taste of real cutting edge country music, with a huge emphasis on entertainment, crowd participation and a good time.
Do you play live?
We play all around Australia including the major country music Festivals such as Tamworth, Gympie Muster and numerous Bachelor & Spinster Balls. Plus we love to travel to the US and are looking to tour the US in 2006.
How, do you think, does the internet (or mp3) change the music industry?
"There is one Single Truth today that never existed throughout my 20 years in the industry...
Independent musicians CAN SELL A SONG FOR UNDER A DOLLAR to ANYONE IN THE WORLD...RIGHT NOW !
...and at the touch of a listener's button... from a mobile phone ...an Mp3 player or IPOD device ...Interactive TV or ...the Internet. "
Suddenly we are not at the control of a radio station in our local area, or a if a reord store displays our music. We control our own destiny in amuch bigger market. The great thing about the internet is the size of the market. The problem with the Internet is the size of the market. You still have to work it!
- Harry Jon Nanos, Crakajak
Independent musicians CAN SELL A SONG FOR UNDER A DOLLAR to ANYONE IN THE WORLD...RIGHT NOW !
...and at the touch of a listener's button... from a mobile phone ...an Mp3 player or IPOD device ...Interactive TV or ...the Internet. "
Suddenly we are not at the control of a radio station in our local area, or a if a reord store displays our music. We control our own destiny in amuch bigger market. The great thing about the internet is the size of the market. The problem with the Internet is the size of the market. You still have to work it!
- Harry Jon Nanos, Crakajak
Would you sign a record contract with a major label?
Depends on the contract
Band History:
Band Members
Harry Jon Nanos (Lead Vocals, Guitar, & Songwriter) has worked professionally in the music industry for over 20 years as a recording studio owner, composer, musician & performer.
Harry has composed and produced music with entertainers such as Eric Bana and for clients such as the Australian Football League. He has won many awards over the years in his lead role with Crakajak.
Today Harry continues to develop fresh new music for Crakajak, including the soon to be released Album “10.”, celebrating Crakajak’s 10 year history.
Crakajak is still Harry’s main focus but in between Crakajak projects, Harry owns and runs a successful recording production studio which produces albums for independent artists such as the Australian Pop legend, Marcie Jones.
Rob Walker (Bass Guitar, Backing Vocals, & Songwriter) has worked in the music industry both as a Performer and within Executive roles for over 25 years.
Rob has been a published songwriter and performed in some of Australia’s biggest recording bands over the past 25 years.
He has extensive trade show, event and international marketing expertise.
Rob returned to Australia in 2004 after a 3 year stint in the US as the Market Development Director of NAMM, the world’s largest trade music association.
Prior to Rob’s involvement with NAMM, he held the positions of Executive Officer for the Australian Music Association & Australian Music Retailers Association.
Mark Donahoe (Rhythm Guitar, & Songwriter) is a recent addition to the Crakajak team, adding further dimension to this great Aussie band.
Mark brings to Crakajak, 20 years of music industry experience, both as a performer and for his production and songwriting skills.
Mark joined Crakajak after major success with the highly successful band, Magnificent 7, who were twice nominated for the most prestigious Australian Music Award, The Golden Guitar Award.
In 1994, Becky Cole won the Golden Guitar Award for Best New Talent, with Mark’s song, “Fool in Around”.
In 1995, Felicity recorded Mark’s song “Follow Me” and won a nomination for best female vocalist at the Golden Guitar Awards.
Mark also operates a production recording facility in Perth Australia, where he is Production Consultant for one of Australia’s biggest artists, Kevin Bloody Wilson.
Mark also plays a management role with the much loved Sunny Cowgirls.
Jay Williams (Violin, Fiddle, Mandolin) is Mr. Instrumental and is responsible for the band’s ability to stretch the boundaries of Country/Americana music.
Jay joined Crakajak in its early days and has been a prominent and popular member of Crakajak.
Jason has appeared on many Australian Independent Albums.
Tony Arena (Lead Guitar) is a seasoned and exceptionally talented guitarist/songwriter. Tony’s guitar playing reflects Crakajak’s signature and individual sound. With 25 years of experience in the Australian music industry and countless appearances as a session guitarist on Australian albums, Tony is one of the most respected musicians. Tony and Harry formed Crakajak.
Steve Tsotsos (Drums/Percussion) joined Crakajak in 2002 and drives the infectious grooves that Crakajak is renowned for. Steve has been a professional drummer and has worked in the Australian music industry for over 15 years.
Steve prefers us not to say to many words about him, rather let his sticks speak.
Awards
2005 - Crakajak’s "She Weeps Alone" final 5 Group/Duo in the Victorian Country Music Awards
2003 - Crakajak wins Best Band, Victorian Country Music Awards
1999 - Crakajak wins Best Band, Victorian Country Music Awards
1999 - Crakajak is runner up Best Country Song, Australian Songwriters Association Award
Albums
2006 - “10.”
2004 - “Dirt Dust & Thunder”
2002 - “Long Long Way from Home”
2000 - “Sometimes Things Happen”
1998 - “Ride the Spirit”
1997 - “From a Rock to a Hard Country”
Music Videos
2005 - “She Weeps Alone”
2005 – “What’s Wrong with a Little Hard Work”
2004 – “Throw Roses”
2002 - “Touch My Skin”
2002 - “Riding on 22 Wheels "
1999 - “Just Can’t Sleep"
TV Appearances
2001 - Midday Show Live Channel 7, National TV coverage with Denise Drysdale
Mid Day Show – Win TV
Country Music Channel - Foxtel & Austar
Harry Jon Nanos (Lead Vocals, Guitar, & Songwriter) has worked professionally in the music industry for over 20 years as a recording studio owner, composer, musician & performer.
Harry has composed and produced music with entertainers such as Eric Bana and for clients such as the Australian Football League. He has won many awards over the years in his lead role with Crakajak.
Today Harry continues to develop fresh new music for Crakajak, including the soon to be released Album “10.”, celebrating Crakajak’s 10 year history.
Crakajak is still Harry’s main focus but in between Crakajak projects, Harry owns and runs a successful recording production studio which produces albums for independent artists such as the Australian Pop legend, Marcie Jones.
Rob Walker (Bass Guitar, Backing Vocals, & Songwriter) has worked in the music industry both as a Performer and within Executive roles for over 25 years.
Rob has been a published songwriter and performed in some of Australia’s biggest recording bands over the past 25 years.
He has extensive trade show, event and international marketing expertise.
Rob returned to Australia in 2004 after a 3 year stint in the US as the Market Development Director of NAMM, the world’s largest trade music association.
Prior to Rob’s involvement with NAMM, he held the positions of Executive Officer for the Australian Music Association & Australian Music Retailers Association.
Mark Donahoe (Rhythm Guitar, & Songwriter) is a recent addition to the Crakajak team, adding further dimension to this great Aussie band.
Mark brings to Crakajak, 20 years of music industry experience, both as a performer and for his production and songwriting skills.
Mark joined Crakajak after major success with the highly successful band, Magnificent 7, who were twice nominated for the most prestigious Australian Music Award, The Golden Guitar Award.
In 1994, Becky Cole won the Golden Guitar Award for Best New Talent, with Mark’s song, “Fool in Around”.
In 1995, Felicity recorded Mark’s song “Follow Me” and won a nomination for best female vocalist at the Golden Guitar Awards.
Mark also operates a production recording facility in Perth Australia, where he is Production Consultant for one of Australia’s biggest artists, Kevin Bloody Wilson.
Mark also plays a management role with the much loved Sunny Cowgirls.
Jay Williams (Violin, Fiddle, Mandolin) is Mr. Instrumental and is responsible for the band’s ability to stretch the boundaries of Country/Americana music.
Jay joined Crakajak in its early days and has been a prominent and popular member of Crakajak.
Jason has appeared on many Australian Independent Albums.
Tony Arena (Lead Guitar) is a seasoned and exceptionally talented guitarist/songwriter. Tony’s guitar playing reflects Crakajak’s signature and individual sound. With 25 years of experience in the Australian music industry and countless appearances as a session guitarist on Australian albums, Tony is one of the most respected musicians. Tony and Harry formed Crakajak.
Steve Tsotsos (Drums/Percussion) joined Crakajak in 2002 and drives the infectious grooves that Crakajak is renowned for. Steve has been a professional drummer and has worked in the Australian music industry for over 15 years.
Steve prefers us not to say to many words about him, rather let his sticks speak.
Awards
2005 - Crakajak’s "She Weeps Alone" final 5 Group/Duo in the Victorian Country Music Awards
2003 - Crakajak wins Best Band, Victorian Country Music Awards
1999 - Crakajak wins Best Band, Victorian Country Music Awards
1999 - Crakajak is runner up Best Country Song, Australian Songwriters Association Award
Albums
2006 - “10.”
2004 - “Dirt Dust & Thunder”
2002 - “Long Long Way from Home”
2000 - “Sometimes Things Happen”
1998 - “Ride the Spirit”
1997 - “From a Rock to a Hard Country”
Music Videos
2005 - “She Weeps Alone”
2005 – “What’s Wrong with a Little Hard Work”
2004 – “Throw Roses”
2002 - “Touch My Skin”
2002 - “Riding on 22 Wheels "
1999 - “Just Can’t Sleep"
TV Appearances
2001 - Midday Show Live Channel 7, National TV coverage with Denise Drysdale
Mid Day Show – Win TV
Country Music Channel - Foxtel & Austar
Your influences?
Steve Earl, John Cougar M., Eagles, Creedance Clearwater, Nirvanna
Favorite spot?
Byron Bay NSW Australia
Equipment used:
Pro Tools recording studio and Tailor guitars