Recorded live at Lola’s Bar in Airlie Beach, this session features the talented Simon Briley, whose music blends introspective lyrics with an easy, melodic sense of groove. Simon performs three songs — his originals “Sound and Echo” and “Blackwing”, plus a heartfelt cover of Empire of the Sun’s “We Are the People.”

Between songs, Nick and Simon share an honest conversation about the unseen side of being a musician — from shifting creative paths to balancing artistry with everyday performance life.

🎵 Tracklist:

1. Sound and Echo – a Reggae inspired original about letting go and finding clarity.
2. We Are the People – an inspired reinterpretation of the Empire of the Sun classic.
3. Blackwing – a piano-born tune reimagined on guitar, exploring change and resilience.

🧠 Conversation Highlights:

• How Blackwing evolved from a piano song into a guitar-led arrangement.
• The transition from original bands to solo performance life in Australia.
• Why making music full-time often looks different from how we imagine it.
• The idea that “you never complete music” — it’s a lifelong study and practice.
• Writing as therapy, and how journaling shapes Simon’s songwriting.
• The importance of community and creative feedback among working musicians.

🎙️ Credits:

• Host: Nick Di Gregorio
• Guest: Simon Briley
• Additional Camera: Benny Crisp
• Recorded live at Lola’s Bar, Airlie Beach, QLD
• Produced, Filmed, Edited and Mixed by the Nick

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