The Lucksmiths

The Lucksmiths are an influential indie-pop band from Melbourne, Australia which formed in 1993. The members are Martin "Marty" Donald (Guitar), Taliesyn "Tali" White (Vocals, Drums), and Mark Monnone (Bass)

The Lucksmiths are an influential indie-pop band from Melbourne, Australia which formed in 1993. The members are Martin "Marty" Donald (Guitar), Taliesyn "Tali" White (Vocals, Drums), and Mark Monnone (Bass) and in 2004 they acquired Mid State Orange's guitarist Louis to perform second guitar. Whilst originating from beach-side Melbourne, the original three members of The Lucksmiths moved to inner-Melbourne and fell in love with its charms. The songs "Under the Rotunda", "The Cassingle Revival" and "Tmrw Vs Y'Day" all demonstrate as much. In the early 90's, they met Chris Crouch who founded Candle Records. Crouch consequently enlisted the services of The Lucksmiths and The Mabels. Soon after, The Lucksmiths began to play the Melbourne indy-circuit, most notably the Punters Club. This venue clearly holds a special place in The Lucksmiths' history as, after its conversion to hipster bar Bimbos, The Lucksmiths wrote "Requiem to the Punters' Club". Unfortunately, it was only released as a b-side on the "Midweek Midmorning" single. After such a long affiliation with Melbourne and its culture, Mark now resides in coastal Tasmania. This has not harmed the quality of The Lucksmiths' work nor is a reflection of intra-band tension.

The Lucksmiths are noted for their simple melodies rich in humour and ironic verse. The majority of songs are written by Marty Donald. Although, both Tali White and Mark Monnone have written some of the band's finest songs. Many of their lyrics are based on eccentricities of the everyday. Several songs also deal with more common issues of romance in relationship but in a very unique, gentle and relatable way. There is considerable debate amongst fans of The Lucksmiths as to whether the first two songs on 'What Bird is That?' "Shine on me", "Silver Friends" were purposefully placed together. "Shine on Me" deals with the happiness and simple joys of 20-something love whilst "Silver Friends" analyses the breakup in very much a Melbourne context. There is also a constant theme of Melbourne culture, most notably that of the inner-city. In fact, "Guess How Much I Love you", regarded as one of The Lucksmiths' finest songs, demonstrates Donald's ability to deal with love in a very 'human' and accessible way and a love of Melbourne (the song isn't about a love for Melbourne, the two themes merely work together).