23 Nov 2024

What does it mean to be part of an energetic, spontaneous, fast paced, Rock Band with a serious name like 'DonkeyPunk'? I had no idea so I asked the members and got this from the boys themselves.

It was from the ashes of several burnt out bands, whose futures were becoming increasingly uncertain that 'DonkeyPunk' was born.

Sam Polwart (lead vocals) and Richard Hurliman (guitar) came together with the vision of forming a band that would launch into the Global Music scene with powerful intensity. When their valiant efforts at finding the perfect members had finally paid off, they were astounded to find that they had discovered a phenomenally good looking group of guys who can really play their stuff.

Hailing from West Auckland with a 'West is Best' attitude came the down-right and dirty Logan Wedgwood (drums). Sam and Richard saved Logan from a life of Indie drumming and hurled him into the Punk/Rock scene where he adjusted With little effort.

From the South came Al 'Fingers' Grainger (bass), whose home in the upper class suburb of Otahuhu has been nominated as DonkeyPunk's rehearsal/recording space and base of operations. With a flair and style all his own, it was obvious that his talent was unsurpassed and he was the man for the job.

Peter Rowlands (guitar) was found just around the corner. Being the youngest and hottest guitar player they had discovered out of hundreds of auditionees (ok maybe 15 people) and owning a van with the registration plate 'MANVAN' made him impossible to turn down.

Sam says being in DonkeyPunk has been an entirely different yet exciting experience which is reflected in their music, productivity and hard-working attitude. "Well lets face it, no one's going to give us anything unless we've earned it, so we spent seven months writing and practicing before we even played our first show. We certainly didn't want to disappoint anyone, including ourselves."

Summer 2007 saw the first phase of the 'DonkeyPunk Explosion' with the release of the infectious summer anthem 'You're Yuck'. A raw, edgy and unorthodox Pop Track, the song was a fitting introduction for DonkeyPunk. Both the recording of the single & corresponding music video were completely self funded by DonkeyPunk themselves. This was true to form for a band that has continued to create their own opportunities in fiercely competitive & over saturated 'music scene'. Combining an original 'Anti-Love' message with killer guitar hooks & melodic vocals, this debut release was fitting for a band that refuses to work any way other than thier own. DonkeyPunk continued to build momentum upon release with an entirely self funded/self managed Summer Tour. A hectic schedule saw DonkeyPunk showcasing their enormous stage show in some of the greatest venues in thier home country, thus proving that they were not only talented songwriters but also an energetic & powerful live act.

From what I have heard listening to thier music and of their plans, these guys are certainly dreaming big and have the planning and direction to back up that dream. On stage their performance is unmatched, combining acrobatic visuals with music that is not only impressive technically, but has an infectious bounce quality that won't leave your head for days.

This Band is one to watch out for. If you enjoy rock music with a punk twist then you're going to fall in love with these melodic fast-paced, fast-living rockers who are DonkeyPunk.

Keep up to date on their progress, up and coming events and pictures on their website www.donkeypunk.com Have your say, let them know what you think.


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Reviews & Testimonials:


"Are you searching for a live band with energy and bounce that will leave you craving for more? Then look no further... Massive songs and a huge stage presence have already helped create real excitement about this band- Dont miss them!"-The Truth Magazine


"Everyone should sit up and take notice of this band; they're doing great things... Ill be looking for a diverse and origional album from D.P... Something very enjoyable"-Feed The Band.org

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