07/04/2026
We caught up with Brendan Larter ahead of his House Gig at 2-12th Avenue on Wednesday 8 April at 6pm. Brendan is no stranger to House Gigs, although this is the first time we've interviewed him. Find out what he had to say below. Haven't booked for the gig yet? Whatsapp Dalena on 0824946597. R100pp, BYOB, snacks, and camping chair. See you there!
Q: What inspired you to pick up a guitar and learn how to play it?
A: I fell into it young — the Atteryburys brought that raw garage-band energy into my life when I was about nine. Johnny dragged my brother into it and there was always a guitar lying around. I was drawn to the instrument instantly: it was challenging, and hugely rewarding — and, thank God, pre-cell-phone, so we actually spent time playing.
Q: How would you say your early years in Gonubie inspired or shaped your music?
A: Gonubie was a surf-and-music town. In the ’90s everyone seemed to be serious about their craft, so the standard of musicianship around me was high. Growing up in that environment taught me to listen closely, work on technique, and value the communal vibe that still informs my sound.
Q: Rather than limiting yourself to a traditional approach to guitar and piano, you bring in loops and create soundscapes in front of your audience. Can you describe your musical journey over the years – how you went from the ordinary to the extraordinary.
A: I always wanted to play in a band, but the reality is it takes several committed people, time, and a place to rehearse — resources that became harder to sustain as live music shifts away from the mainstream. The loop pedal became the answer: it lets a solo performer where I can build layered, band-like arrangements in real time. Over the years I taught myself how to weave ambient textures and rhythmic loops into songs so my solo sets feel big and immersive without losing intimacy.
Q: Who are your musical inspirations? Which artists, bands, or composers leave you in awe or help keep your creative fires burning?
A: A lot of my looping approach comes from YOAV — he helped take that style global. Dave Matthews Band inspires the expansive, big band jam side of my music. Acoustically I’m influenced by John Butler and Ben Howard, and I pull melodic moodiness from electronic acts like Nightmares on Wax. And, of course, the Atteryburys remain local heroes and constant inspiration.
Q: What are your musical plans for the future?
A: Keep playing, keep learning and refining the craft — and get out there touring more, ideally around Europe and hopefully the States.
Q: What can we expect from your House Gig at 2–12th Avenue on 8 April?
A: You can expect my takes on favourite classics turned into my own versions, a few new pieces I’m developing, and possibly a sweet collaboration with the Atteryburys.
Catch Brendan Larter with Jamie and Johnny Atterbury at House Gigs at 2-12th Avenue, Gonubie, on Wednesday 8 April at 6pm. Whatsapp Dalena on 0824946597. R100pp, BYOB, snacks, and camping chair.
