Harrison Storm Takes Us Behind The Scenes Of His Aus Tour With Gregory Alan Isakov

Hearing the news that Gregory Alan Isakov was touring Australia for the first time was an exciting day for me. His recorded songs have this amazing ability to fully transport you to the mood and atmosphere he creates in the studio and the idea of seeing it live filled me with excitement. Getting the opportunity to support him on the tour was something I would never have guessed to happen and feel genuinely lucky that it did.

The first of five shows started in Brisbane at the Triffid and the first time I heard Gregory and his band’s sound live was one of the many memories that stand out on that tour. I pushed through the doors and walked into the empty venue with my guitars in hand and my backpack on, feeling like a lost school kid and discovered that they were still soundchecking!

The sounds literally stopped me dead in my tracks and it felt like I’d just stumbled upon something very special and intimate. I was completely captivated for a few minutes and soaking it all in when the music suddenly stopped as Gregory politely said ‘hey’ to me, before continuing to soundcheck.

That night was very special, in particular. His crowd were very respectful and attentive during my set and that summed up the entire tour, really. The band (and also great friends of Gregory’s) were incredibly kind to me each show.

I felt lucky that Gregory offered some great nuggets of career advice to me as we shared a post-show drink – [he said] find something you love to do that you’re equally as passionate about as music, with the intention that dividing your time will help prevent a burnout from music. Wise advice. And to keep pushing on and working as hard as you can, good things take time and good audiences take time to build.

All in all, an amazing tour I will never forget. Cheers for having me, Gregory!