Ian Woolverton
rudely interrupted
One of the greatest privileges of my life was working with Australian indie-rock band Rudely Interrupted. Formed in Melbourne in the mid-noughties, the band captivated audiences worldwide with their infectious blend of indie and synth-pop.
This is Rohan Brooks, co-founder of the band, performing at the United Nations in New York in honor of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities.
Rohan is the only member of the band without a disability. After this powerful performance, the band quickly gained momentum, receiving a wave of bookings, including a spot at Toronto’s NXNE festival (Sneaky Dee’s) and performances at prestigious venues across New York, Washington, DC, Montreal, and beyond.
This is Rory Burnside, co-founder of Rudely Interrupted. He has Asperger’s syndrome, a form of autism, and was born without eyes, yet he possesses the extraordinary talent of perfect pitch. As the band’s frontman, Rory brings a unique energy to every performance.
During a tour in Canada, we had the chance to meet Tom Cruise. After chatting with him, Rory turned to us and quipped, “Nup, I don’t believe that was Tom Cruise!” His witty scepticism never failed to surprise us.
The band proudly featured on a massive banner promoting the world-renowned VSA Festival at Washington DC’s Kennedy Center. Being invited to perform at such a prestigious venue was an exciting milestone for the band, a true testament to their talent and hard work.
This incredible opportunity led to a North American tour aboard a luxurious coach complete with tinted windows, a bar, and bunk beds for the band and crew. To top it off, the tour was captured in a thrilling 60-minute television documentary that aired to rave reviews during primetime on the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC). It was a significant moment in their musical journey.
Check out the tour bus!
On the tour bus, I was thrilled to read that the Montreal music press had given high praise to Rudely Interrupted.
Rudely Interrupted headlining at New York’s Brooklyn Bowl was no sympathy gig — this band is the real deal, earning praise from the likes of Pitchfork and VICE Magazine. Even Moby wrote a glowing review of the group in his fanzine.
Ever the showman, this is bass player Sam Beke.
Marcus plays keys and holds a cool tune, despite being partially deaf and having autism. Here he is taking a breather after soundcheck at the VSA Festival in Washington, DC.
The flamboyant, irrepressible Sam Beke, who has Down Syndrome. Sam is a people person and loves to perform.
There’s no rock ‘n’ roll without a drummer, and Rudely Interrupted is incredibly fortunate to have Josh laying down the beat. His tight and precise drumming has musicians and music writers in awe, bringing an exciting, urgent, and vital energy to the band’s sound.
What truly makes Josh a legend is his resilience; despite his disability, which makes it challenging for him to hold the drumsticks, he performs like a total pro and a master of his craft. It’s inspiring to think that he learned to play the drums on pots and pans, proving that passion and determination can overcome any obstacle.
Rohan Brooks is highly regarded on the Australian indie rock scene. Before forming Rudely Interrupted with Rory Burnside, he toured internationally with many of Australia’s most well known bands.
Rory can’t see, he has no eyes, but he ‘sees’ in colour; often red, amber and green.
Band rehearsal in Melbourne, Australia.
Getting ready for another headlining gig.
Larger than life, it’s bass player Sam. He’s a huge fan of the band Kiss.
Rohan Brooks during a television interview. Listen to Rudely Interrupted on NPR’s All Things Considered.
There would be no Rudely Interrupted without the drive, perseverance, and sheer determination of Rohan Brooks.
Working alongside him was a true pleasure. Together, we broke down barriers, challenged the indie music scene’s norms, and earned the respect of the international press while securing high-profile gigs worldwide. It was a privilege of a lifetime to be involved and to connect with some of the kindest people in the music business. Today, I live in the UK while Rohan continues to thrive in Australia.
Sam and Rohan on stage in Montreal, Canada.
As the Aussies say, “legends”. I’m grateful to them for an exhilarating, life-changing experience that was truly one-of-a-kind. Thank you for the incredible journey.