We play 'What Song...' with Alex Gow from Oh Mercy

Originally started by Alex Gow, now a quartet, Oh Mercy have become one of Australia's most loved indie rock acts. The new LP When We Talk About Love has received critical acclaim and is one of the best releases of the year. Alex takes us through some tracks that have shaped him over the years. 

What song reminds you of your youth?

Lots of songs do. One of those is Desire by U2. Mum's a nurse. She had her nurse friends over for a BBQ one summer. I remember Dad putting U2's best o' on. When Desire came on one of Mum's friends and her boyfriend started dancing. They really liked each other. They really liked that song. I guess I hadn't really seen people dancing in real life prior to that either. It was a defining moment. The first time I understood the power of music. It was so lustful. At the time I didn't fully understand what was going on between these two, there relationship and the collective relationship with the song. But I was wide eyed. I knew something important was happening.   
                                    

What song is your ultimate party track?

Heart Of Glass - Blondie. It rules. Feels good from word go. Women love Blondie. Blokes love Blondie. Everyone does. Great mix of programmed drums and guitar music. A perfect mix of 70's rock and the new technology that would define the 80's. 

What song do you listen to before you jump on stage?

The Walker Brothers - The Sun Ain't Gonna Shine Anymore. A sad song with an uplifting feel. I wish I could sing like Scott Walker. Doing a Scott Walker happens to be a great way to warm up my voice. 

What song would you make your theme song?

I don't really know. I think the Reels version of This Guy's In Love is incredible. I've been covering it lately. I was in love once and understand the words. Makes me feel things. So, maybe, that one? 

What song reminds you of your first heartbreak?

Forget Her - Jeff Buckley. Great song. Great singer. My favourite of his songs is Lilac Wine. My first girlfriend was cool. I was an overly sensitive, ridiculous, maudlin youth. I can only laugh. 

What do you have on repeat right now?

When You're Smiling And Astride Me - Father John Misty. I love his first record and the second one is no let down. This song is especially beautiful. 

What song is your guilty pleasure?

Sweet Child O' Mine. lol. 

You can catch Oh Mercy on Sunday at Splendour in the Grass at 1:45pm at the GW McLennan tent or during their shows in August and September below. 

Saturday, 22nd August
Howler, Melbourne
Tickets: moshtix

Friday, 28th August
Oxford Art Factory, Sydney
Tickets: moshtix

Saturday, 29th August
Cambridge Hotel, Newcastle
Tickets: Oh Mercy

Friday, 4th September
Woolly Mammoth, Brisbane
Tickets: Ticket Scout

Saturday, 5th September
Darwin Railway Club, Darwin
Tickets: Oh Mercy

Friday, 18th September
Mojos, Fremantle
Tickets: Oh Mercy

Saturday, 19th September
Rosemount Hotel, Perth
Tickets: Oh Mercy