Blackchords

Blackchords released their self-titled debut album on October 5, 2009 through Dust Devil Music/Stomp. Hailing from Melbourne, Australia, Blackchords, fronted by songwriter 27-year old Nick Milwright, have been widely acclaimed on their native turf (“One of the best Australian debut releases”, Reverb Magazine). Critics rave that their darkly majestic collection of understated songs recalls the best bits of Ryan Adams, Elbow, and Jeff Buckley. “So far the response has been really positive, especially from the fans,” says Nick. “We strive to write music that moves and connects with people. It’s the reason we want to play professionally.”

After collectively finishing university or working in badly paid jobs, Blackchords began to take shape in 2005, their name originating, says Nick, “down in the belly of a bluestone basement.” In 2006 they created quite a stir when, as an unsigned band, their video for "Broken Bones" won first place at Melbourne’s prestigious St. Kilda Film Festival. In 2008 the same song went on to become a double finalist in the ISC (International Songwriting Competition, for best rock song & video). “I really love working with filmmakers and artists to help create the Blackchords landscape,” says Nick.

In 2008 the band were signed to Dust Devil Music, and began work on their debut full-length album. "In the beginning we were almost an alt country band. Then we found ourselves trying to resemble instrumental rock bands like Explosions In The Sky. Now I feel like we've found our own feet and sound like Blackchords. I knew we were walking the right path after hearing the first notes of the cello on "Raise My Hands." The whole time when the string quartet was recording I just sat there. I had goose bumps down my spine.”

So, now that Blackchords is complete and ready to be set free, what does the future hold for the band? "We're just eager to get out there and push it as far as it can go. Blackchords want to make music for the rest of our lives and get better and better as musicians. If we can do that we’ll be very happy."