It’s been the journey of a lifetime for Melbourne pop darlings The Little Stevies.
Sisters Sibylla and Bethany, and their childhood friend Robin, grew up making music together, the offspring of two very musical families whose members once formed part of an ARIA-winning pop band in the 1970s. It’s their long history of collaboration coupled with their relatively young age that makes their sound unique: exquisite three-part harmonies that soar above terrific pop melodies and catchy guitar hooks.
Since 2009, their sound’s been expanded and matured by the band’s newest member, multi-instrumentalist Josh Barber on drums and percussion. After the release of their debut album Love Your Band in early 2009, they rapidly built a reputation as canny songwriters and an exceptional live act, building a loyal following of Little Stevie-loving fans wherever they go.
In March 2010, The Little Stevies embarked on their first tour of the USA, originally planned as a low-key showcase trip. What transpired was beyond all expectations, with the band stealing the spotlight at the International Folk Alliance Conference in Memphis, playing packed-out shows, signing with a leading U.S. booking agent and attracting a swag of label, radio and publishing interest.
The band returned to Los Angeles in September this year to record their follow-up album with producer Ethan Allen (Tim Finn, Brant Bjork, Kristin Hersh). Followed by a small run of shows across the U.S. and Canada, including showcases in Nashville, Toronto, the OCFF in Ottawa, and New York’s prestigious CMJ Music Marathon.
Why have The Little Stevies struck such a rich, penetrating and instant chord with audiences?
It might be their honest lyrics, an oft-witty, oft-moving mixture of the personal and the profound. It might be their sound, an eclectic and energetic blend of acoustic pop, adorned with stunning four-part harmonies. And it might be the cheeky, charming personalities of the band members themselves, who enjoy chatting with a crowd almost as much as playing for them.
Advance tickets are at Bop City Records. Joe's Kitchen opens at 6:30 and the show begins at 8:30.
For more information, visit www.joeson5th.ca or call 250-702-MILO (6456).
— Joe's Garage