Hard-rocking outfit 1989 are positive proof that sometimes things just happen when you least expect it. What started out as just a bit of fun has become a juggernaut as the band takes its distinctive sound to audiences around the world. Rewind a few years and we find 1989’s members playing around Brisbane in bands going nowhere fast. Today frontman Simon Vermeulen and bassist Jason Fuller recall a time when they were playing music that they thought people wanted to hear, not what they were driven to play. It was time to go back to their roots, and 1989 was to be the vehicle that got them there. With guitarists Tommy Drake, Mark Haddon and exciting new drummer Regan Ireland on board, this group of mates shared a love of classic, big riff guitar rock. To them, 1989 was the last year of the two greatest eras in rock history, The 70's and 80's. The idea was simply to get together and have a jam, but the more they played, the more they realised that just maybe they were on to something. They grew up listening to the likes of Zeppelin, Iron Maiden, and AC/DC and pretty soon those influences started shining though. They call it “New Age Old School” and since first walking on a stage, it’s a sound that has been building the band a rapidly growing fan base. They’ve played just about all of Brisbane’s key venues, chalking up shows alongside the likes of Screaming Jets and legendary UK rockers Budgie while headlining a run of their own gigs. And it seems they never fail to make an impression thanks to a live show that bristles with energy and attitude. Having recorded their first EP in 2007, 1989 has now taken the wraps off their impressive debut album The Right Life. The album is an irresistible slice of high-impact guitar rock that’s earning them fans around the globe. Having already picked up overseas distribution with heavyweights EMI and ATTACK Records, the album is now available throughout North America, and is available for download everywhere. Don’t expect this band to rest on its laurels though, with plans to make a new record and tour interstate for the first time, 2009 is shaping up as a big one for 1989. It’s only a matter of time before audiences around the country realise that this is a band that simply rocks…end of story. Get on board now at www.1989.com.au or www.myspace.com/1989band CONTACT 1989: contact1989@1989.com.au Bookings: icemanagement@iprimus.com.au