MOUNT Gambier band Justice is bringing back the ’70s era with their debut EP In-Justice set for release next month.
Originally forming 44 years ago, the band – which comprises of members Don Telford, Baden Butler, Peter White and Greg Lockwood, is ready to rock and roll like they did in high school.
Receiving significant interest not only from their local fans, but prominent international classic rock label Melodic Rock Records, it seems Justice still knows what it takes to make great music.
Stumbling on the lead single Kids of Yesterday online recently, Melodic Rock Records’ Andrew McNeice said he was excited by what he heard.
“I could not believe the quality and sentiment of the song and when I heard the story of Justice and the rest of the EP I was blown away,” he said.
Friends since high school in the 1970s and forming the band in 1974, Justice members have enjoyed local success and previously regrouped in 2006 and again in both 2010 and 2016 to play shows.
However, much like a Coonawarra cabernet sauvignon, the members claim Justice has become better with age and now years later they have taken the step to hit the studio.
Recorded by Don’s sons Josh and Sam Telford on the central coast of New South Wales late last year and with some songwriting assistance from Baden’s son Jacob, the In-Justice EP is truly a family affair.
“We had one of the best weeks of our lives recording the EP, it was so much fun and such a great experience to work with my son as well,” Baden said.
Starting with 17 songs, the band narrowed it down to their favourite five, one of which is titled Kids of Yesterday, which is based on Baden’s time growing up in the South East.
“Last year my eldest son asked me what I would like for my birthday – all I asked for was to work on a song together and that is what we have done,” he said.
“It was wonderful to work with my son on that song and the others and then with Don’s sons as well, they all have immense experience and talent.”
Set to perform their EP at The Barn Palais next month with fellow South East rockers Avenue and Australian Idol and X Factor finalist Jacob, Baden said it will be a great way to showcase their work while also raising money for a great cause.
“A couple of years ago we did a similar thing at The Barn and raised money for Movember, but this time we want to keep that money locally so have chosen the Mount Gambier Men’s Shed as the recipients,” he said.
“We wanted to stay with the theme of men’s health and the Mount Gambier Men’s Shed helps so many people.”
Thankful for the support of the community, Baden said they have come a long way since the days rocking away in high school.
“Thank you to everyone that has helped us along the way, we are extremely grateful,” he said.
“It all started out as a bit of fun recording the EP – I did not actually think it would turn into something.”
Justice will launch the EP on April 14.
Tickets are on sale at Chapmans Newsagency.
