Ahead of their show this weekend in Sydney with Hands of Houses, we caught up with Sam Faul, the lead singer of emerging Western Sydney hard-rock/alternative metal band Fifth Dawn. We find out how she got started in music, how the band formed, get her advice for other up-and-coming artists, talk about the importance of all age gigs in Sydney and more! Read on:
How did you get started playing music – and in particular, the style of music you’re playing now, and the instrument you’re playing in the band?
I’ve always harnessed a love for music from a young age and had older brothers who mostly inspired me in the field of musicianship and in the metal genre. I started singing when I was 14 out of the blue and discovered an avenue to pursue my dreams and passion like my brothers did.
How did the band form? How did you become a part of it?
Three of the existing members Jamie, Ethan and Jordan had been together as part of another band called Forgetting April. Mark and myself were sourced out after their vocalist and lead guitarist had left that band. We started off in a garage band environment and started writing and creating which all lead to where we are now. My mother had worked with Jamie (our guitarists) dad which is how I was found by the band through that connection. Mark attended the same high school as Jamie and Ethan and they were already friends at school. We decided to change the band name to Fifth Dawn as a way of starting fresh.
Was your first instrument the one you’re playing in the band? If no, what was your first instrument?
I’ve been playing piano since the age of 13 not long before I started to sing. I try and utilise both skills which have developed my song writing abilities.
Did you study anything music related at University or High School? If so, what did you study?
I completed year 12 at Newtown Performing Arts High School and then went on to complete the Diploma of Music.
Are you playing your favourite instrument? If no, what’s your favourite and do you hope to master it one day?
I would have to say voice has stolen a part of my heart significantly more than the piano. I hope to continually master and develop my skills throughout my life.
What advice would you have for anyone looking to break into the industry and scene?
I would say that wherever you are at in terms of musicianship and your journey, trust that with the right amount of passion and determination that you can achieve your goals, ideally in small steps where the most progression occurs. It’s not an easy road and there’s not much you can do to prepare yourself apart from keeping yourself on top of your game with drive, hard work and determination. Don’t be afraid to reach out for help and to introduce yourself to other local bands at gigs and share your experiences. Do it because you love it and because it is a part of who you are. It can be a hard road and everybody will have an opinion but if you believe in what you do – own it. Never let negativity consume you to the point that you lose the heart in music and in yourself.
How important are all age gigs to the Sydney scene? What impact do you think they make to the youth community?
It is especially important as the heart of music can start at an early age where it did for me. I have been going to gigs since I was 13 and I was passionate about the live scene. You can’t get that feeling from watching a killer live show on your headphones. It’s the atmosphere and energy of the live shows that takes it to a whole new level for me. It is these gigs that put me on a path in my own music career so I guess I am truly a product of the impact it can have on youth.
What song should we listen to from your group?
It really depends as they all highlight different strongpoints of the band. However, they all elicit a strong message as well. My heart does lie with “Paranoia” particularly as it deals with a universally prominent issue among young individuals; being warped body perceptions.
What’s one of your favourite songs from one of the other bands on the bill?
I do enjoy the melodic nature on the starting riff in “Developments,” by Hands Like Houses. The song resonates well with me and the writing is just amazing – right through the whole album actually.
What would be your dream artist to perform alongside?
I would have to say Circa Survive for they have dramatically impacted me musically and on a personal level. They have managed to sustain their stellar sound, yet upholding the basis of creativity which I love and aspire to be like in my music.
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Fifth Dawn are playing with Hands Like Houses, Columbus and Vanity Riots on Sunday, the 4th of October, at the Giant Dwarf Theatre in Redfern, Sydney as part of the all ages Indent tour, put together by the City of Sydney and MusicNSW. Tickets are available from Oztix for $10 + BF as well as at Red Eye Records.
For more details visit their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/fifthdawnau
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