Carus and the True Believers

In an industry rife with internet downloads and CD burning, where does one find a happy medium? In recent months bands including Powderfinger, Grinspoon, John Butler, Silverchair and The Cat Empire have spoken out to protect the work of all artists, to fight for and environment where musicians are given due credit for their hard work.

When interviewing Melbourne-based independent Aussie roots artist Carus Thompson, I found it somewhat difficult to grasp the sentiments of his response to the current situation.

"When I sell my CD's, I tell people to burn them, spread the music, get it out there. If people like the record they will go and buy it or they will come to a show, they will put money into the kitty eventually."

As the interview progress I begin to form an understanding as to why such a hard-working guy with the talent he has, is so accepting of such an outright lack of respect for musicians.

The rise of Carus has been steady in the making. Though after performing and touring Oz extensively for over a decade and having now released 3 Eps, 2 Lps along with a hugely successful double live album showcasing the organic vibe of Carus live, things are looking promising, and he has much to be grateful for. Carus names among his biggest support within the music industry Waifs and John Butler Trio manager Phil Stevens, Simon Daly (Falls Festival) and bigger names including Michael Coppel. His name is brought to the fore whenever the success of the Aussie roots genre is discussed, and overseas record sales have reached over 2000 along with a team of sell-out shows from his recent UK tour. Carus says, "I have just put my head down and worked my arse off and ended up here."

If you were to describe the mounting success that is Carus, what comes to the fore? Many of the songs in Carus' collection revolve around the joys and tribulations which togetherness and love bring. Each album reveals yet another chapter in a compelling story of discovering life. In the case of Carus along with his band, with time comes experience- not merely on a level devoted to personal life.

"The more you practice your art the better you get. I feel like I am hitting a new level of songwriting and the band has never sounded so good. You also learn from your mistakes," Carus explains.

Don't conclude that Carus is merely another musician whose lyrical themes are distinctly based around clichéd love stories. Where the motivation of many artists today is questioned, Carus is one who has risen to the challenge, choosing not to conform to the ways of only producing music to appeal to an audience. Nonetheless, Carus writes matters which draw people- a result of a new generation of fans who are trying to find the true spirit of music once again. His 2004 release 'Long Nights Are Gone' features a cover of 'Broken Song' (written by Australian music legend Neil Murray) opening our eyes to the treatment of the Aboriginal by the white man, a reality that many chose to ignore. The subject of some of Carus' best songs reflect the essence that is Australia- experiences and lessons learned on the road. Songs such as the journey of 'Gonna Leave This Town' found on his 2003 LP 'Songs form Martin Street', and high-spirited 'Sweet Mondays' found on 2004 release 'Long Nights Are Gone.'

An appreciation for Carus' music is elevated once you have been eye-witness to his magnetic live performances. Along with Jason McGann and Andy. who make up his band 'The True Believers' the energy created captivates their audiences and leaves them inspired. Thank goodness for artists like Carus who thrive on live performances.

"When the crowd's vibing and the band's playing off their energy and its all rocking it's just the best thing. The first half of the gig can be getting it to that point but once it's on you're away and it's like just riding this wave. letting it happen. I like feeling like I gave it my all."

Perhaps the reason for the high-vibe created is a result of the close friendship formed between the current trio. The band has spent much of the year abroad getting their music heard throughout Europe. "We are all great mates, even closer now after that tour" reveals Carus "There is something about taking it to the limit- how many shows can we play in a row. it makes you better definitely."

Fans of Carus would agree, with each tour he brings added improvisation and new aspects of the band previously unseen. It seems for Carus Thompson- the boy from Fremantle, Western Australia- bigger things are soon to arrive. 2006 will see Carus and the True Believers in the studio working hard to reveal their best yet.

"We have built everything up to such a point that it's ready to happen I reckon- we just need a really, really good album.Hopefully you'll hear a new single in April and then an album in the later half of the year. I reckon we can do it."

Volunteering his music for new people to hear to Carus, is what is most important. Where some are consumed by the greed of making money, it has been said that pure music should be devoid of financial obligation. It is now understandable to me why an artist such as Carus wouldn't mind the free trading of music- he's just happy that people appreciate his art.

"I think as an indie artist we are lucky like that, as we can encourage CD burning. It's a compliment I reckon."

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