I’d not heard this band before, so it was a nice surprise when I got this album. I like the pop, and the power of it, and just that anytime is the right time to listen to it. 

The band's bassist and vocalist Clyde Bramley was kind enough to answer a few questions for me.

Andrea Weiss: For those who don’t know you, could you give us a short history of the band?

Clyde Bramley: Brothers Glen Morris (guitar, lead vocals) and Brian Morris (drums, vocals) initially formed the band in 2015 to record Glenn’s songs after being encouraged to do so by Paul Collins after they had short stint in his band The Paul Collins Beat. Various members have passed through the band until the current line-up which includes Clyde Bramley (bass, vocals) and John Hoey (keyboards). The band has released 5 CDs on Citadel Records in Australia and signed with Jem Records USA in 2024. (For an in-depth history please visit the band website theonandons.com.au

AW: Who and what are your influences?

CB: Too many and varied to list all of the them, but let’s start with The Beatles and the British Invasion and continue through Badfinger, The Raspberries, Nick Lowe and a thousand others up to the present day!

AW: What’s the scene like in Sydney?

CB: Being the biggest city in Australia, Sydney has always had a thriving music scene. Being a long way from the rest of the world was actually an advantage as we got the best of the USA, the UK and European music. Playing and seeing live music was a way of life for a certain generation growing up in Australia. Today there is still a strong and healthy band and venue scene in inner Sydney although the focus has moved slightly from the inner-city to the inner-west.

AW: “Roller Coaster” speaks to life in the music industry, and perseverance. Is that the advice you’d give someone starting out in music?

CB: Life in the music industry has changed considerably over the years. It’s a lot harder to make a career in music than it used to be, so you better love it and want to do it no matter what!

AW: “Been There” is about being young and the thrill of discovery. Is that message you want to give everyone?

CB: Get out and enjoy life, have fun, and love it while you can.

AW: How did Jem come into the picture?

CB: I have a sneaking suspicion that Paul Collins (also now signed to Jem) may have put in a good word with Marty Scott of Jem after the band score a Coolest Song In the World on Little Steven’s Underground Garage in 2023 with “Let Ya Hair Down!”

AW: Do you plan to do any gigs in the US?

CB: We would love to come and play in the US but we may need a billionaire benefactor to make it a reality!