Veludo

TEXTURE. VELVET. VELUDO.

There is a revolution coming and emerging Aussie rock band Veludo is at the forefront when it comes to spreading the word.

Formed in 2012, Veludo is quickly evolving into one of the top acts in Australia, having their very first single 'Awaken' voted in the Top 5 Rock Songs at the 2013 Australian Independent Music Awards. It also reached Number 6 on the Triple J Unearthed Rock Chart last year.

Their debut self-titled EP released on February 7, is already making waves with big, layered, anthemic sounds. Mixed by the legendary Grammy Award Winning Producer, Tim Palmer [David Bowie, Pearl Jam, U2, Bon Jovi], produced by ARIA Award Winner Jimi Maroudas [Eskimo Joe, Kimbra], and recorded at the world class Sing Sing Studios, this dynamic combination compliments the organic, otherworldly feel, which commands you to take an amazing journey with them.

Former drummer of The Living End, Travis Demsey, came out of retirement as a drum technician just to be a part of the recording, and James Reid, front man of NZs premier band The Feelers, dropped in to lay down some guest vocals and even co-wrote one of the tracks.

SO WHO IS VELUDO?

A group of four like-minded souls with a ferocious dedication to music who have combined forces to create a new wave of revolutionary intonation with a positive, heartfelt and very real foundation. Veludo is the Portuguese word for Velvet, which reflects both the heritage of Brazilian-born lead singer, Gabriel Vargas, and the textured feel of the band's sound.

Previously, Gabriel, Jase Millar and Les Stuart performed together as Gasoline Inc., and supported rock icons like INXS and The Feelers. Their song 'Superstar' was used by the AFL in the 2010 Finals Series, and following on from this success, they moved from Perth to Melbourne in 2011 to keep momentum flowing. After the Gasoline Inc. chapter came to a close, Veludo was born over a Melbourne skyline, and the rhythm section was transformed when bass player Jared Campbell joined the uprising to complete the grand new melodic picture.

Gabriel is a powerful and charismatic front-man, with a gift for strong and memorable melodies. His distinct and captivating vocals express lyrics which are a reflection of life and positive spirituality. The tragic loss of his father in 2009 was the catalyst for reassessing his priorities and Gab dedicated himself to music and the art of song-writing like a man on a mission.

Multi-instrumentalist Jase has played in many bands both in Australia and the UK. He has a unique guitar sound that is instantly recognisable yet always evolving. He combines this with his skills as a producer and keys player to create stunning sonic landscapes, which meld seamlessly with Gab's lyrics and melodies to create the Veludo vibe. Throughout his musical career, he has supported acts such as Blue King Brown, Ash Grunwald, Gerling, and Endorphin.

Since Jared arrived, he has found the freedom to shine in Veludo. His bass playing underpins the songs and brings an impeccable sense of rhythm to the band, adding a dimension that takes the songs to another level. Jared's arrangements and knowledge of music in all its forms, compliment the song writing process. He has supported, and shared the stage, with numerous acts such as the Kings of Leon, The Rubens, Grinspoon, The Basics, Gotye, The Cat Empire, and The Hives.

Les moved to Australia from Pretoria, South Africa in 2008 and brings some of these roots to his drumming. His thundering toms give weight and colour to the songs and his backing vocals are an integral part of Veludos formidable harmonies. Having an extensive playing history in South Africa, he has recorded and played with numerous top artists in the country, including Jonathan Martin and Andra.

With their vision to create music that matters, backed up by a massive sound, Veludo is here to make a change across the musical landscape, standing at the front of an Indigo generation.

They have definitely arrived... You cant miss them.