A few words with Queensland-based musician Tobias Moldenhauer. A local publication described Tobias’ music thus: "Melodic fingerpicking in open tunings coupled with soulful and haunting vocals, Tobias’ material draws on a wide variety of influences, though never ceases to put its original footprint onto the sands of contemporary acoustic guitar music".
Leicester Bangs: Tell us a little about yourself. Tobias: I recorded a solo demo in Germany in 2005, before hitting the road to play music in both Hemispheres. I have played in a variety of countries, including Sweden, Italy, Germany, the Czech Republic, Samoa and Australia.
LB: How did you start out making music? Tobias: At age 16 I taught myself to play drums and started playing in punk, grunge and stoner rock bands. At 18 I started playing the guitar. Although sound and style really didn't develop to what it is today until I moved to Australia.
LB: Who did you grow up listening to and how do they influence what you’re doing now? Tobias: Mostly European rock bands. Otherwise Bruce Cockburn, John Frusciante, Leo Kottke, Chris Whitley and a whole bunch more of gifted musicians.
I started up playing under a lot of influences, which are still present somewhere, but there comes a time where every musician has to try and express himself. I sometimes force myself not to listen to anything during creative periods for months. That and playing ceaselessly set me up for true and honest expression in music. Else, what's the point?
LB: Tell us about your latest release. Tobias: 'Live at the Red Shed' was recorded in far North Queensland by Giuseppe Vizzone, who's done an excellent job engineering the thing. I wanted to make a record that's as close to the spiritual source of the songs as possible, which meant one-takes only. It was an easy choice to go and do a live record. I'm happy with it.
LB: Do you get out and play your music live, and if so, what can an audience expect at one of your shows? Tobias: See the live video clips on the website (link below).
LB: What aspects of playing and recording music do you most enjoy? Tobias: I used to be much more keen on recording. This changed. I do believe music is only alive while it's being played. A lot of records just sound conserved to me. Once it's created, a song can move and evolve every time it's played. It really does take on a life of it's own. Making music is for those moments. Some musicians can get this feeling easily while recording, for me it mostly happens in a live situation.
LB: Where can people find (and buy) your music? Tobias: My website and CD Baby (links below).
