A BREATH of fresh air has revitalised the Coffs Harbour music scene with the unveiling of The Backroom at the Coffs Hotel.

The former Winxx nightclub has undergone a remarkable transformation, now offering patrons an experience reminiscent of Melbourne, New York, or London.

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The Coffs Hotel’s Billy Trembath, a driving force in the Coffs Coast band scene, radiated enthusiasm for the support of live music.

“We have bands lined up until Christmas, which is a significant boost for our local performers who’ve weathered a challenging few years.

“Our Friday night show last week was a sell-out, a clear testament to the love for live music among our locals.

“The evening began with two promising young bands, Blind Pretty and Folding Chairs, who delivered exceptional performances.

“These emerging talents deserve a top-notch venue to hone their craft and develop as artists,” Trembath added.

The night’s crescendo came courtesy of the headline act, Flying Giant, whose electrifying set showcased the potential of the venue.

“The public’s appetite for live music is strong, and Coffs Harbour needs a platform where bands can shine.

“The Backroom, with its world-class facilities, is now that intimate rock haven.”

Local musicians and music enthusiasts have rallied behind the venue, much to Trembath’s delight.

“Our Saturday afternoon open mic sessions have been steadily gaining popularity, with last week even featuring a captivating Didgeridoo performance.

“Local talents like Charlie Davis, who wowed the audience with Chris Isaak covers and his original compositions, as well as the young fella Dylan, who engaged the crowd with ‘Lean on Me’ and even ventured into opera, have left their mark.

“We encourage young musicians to come and play at Open Mic, it’s a great place to meet other young people who are interested in forming a band and performing.

“We’re experienced musos and can help emerging talent with their instruments and stage presence and the Backroom is a great venue to perform.

“On Friday, 6 October, we’re thrilled to welcome Floyd Vincent, renowned for his high-energy and captivating live shows.

“His charismatic stage presence never fails to captivate audiences, adding an extra layer of dynamism to his music,” Trembath said.

The team at Broken Open Productions, who organised the bands and talent for The Backroom’s launch, were thrilled at the reception the new venue received from local music lovers.

“As live music lovers we are stoked to have the opportunity to offer a great venue alongside great bands,” Aidan Jarvis from Broken Open Productions told NOTA.

“If you love live music this is what you have been looking for.

“All in our backyard.”

Broken Open Productions’ Lindsay Russell said the Coffs Coast had been “striving for a venue like this for years now”.

“It’s great to see someone commit and dive fully into strengthening the live music scene.

“We have a huge line up of bands coming and can’t wait to bring something fresh to the region with Broken Open Sessions at Backroom,” Lindsay said.

By David WIGLEY