28 January, 2016. 15:34
ERROL PARKER | Editor-at-large | Contact
IN A POLITICAL STUNT that’s shocked Australians around the country, Clive Palmer’s latest attempt to keep his party from certain annihilation at this year’s federal election is nothing short of spectacular.
The Palmer United Blues Explosion debuted last night at Perth’s iconic Astor Theatre, with the 61-year-old fronting the two-piece band with Senator Wang on drums and backing vocals.
Playing to an oddly eager crowd in support of local heroes Eskimo Joe, who Palmer counts as a major influence on his band’s sound, Clive said that the nerves of playing an electric 50-minute set were far worse than fronting any royal commission or board meeting.
“I was just glad I didn’t break any strings this time,” said Palmer. “Dio was on fire all night, people in Canberra have started calling him Bonzo.”
Palmer says it’s what he’s always wanted to do and that it’s about getting in touch with the younger Palmer United Supporters.
“They’re the fucking future of this country,” said Clive. “They’re the future of the country’s mining sector. I fight the man, also. Young voters hate good government has much as I do.”
Although many have doubted the mining magnate penned all the songs on the duo’s upcoming LP, Get Behind Me China, Palmer has defended the often profane and insightful lyrics, saying they’re and ode to his relationship with the communist powerhouse.
“Being in a duo with Dio has only strengthened our relationship,” said Palmer.
“I thought about doing this earlier when there was four of us, back when I was listening to a lot of heavy shit. Dio was going to be my Ringo. Jacqui turned out to be my John. Glenn spent a week in India and lost his fucking mind, man. I had to kick him out.”
As for the future, Palmer thinks theres going to be a lot of movement at the station for the Blues Explosion.
His goal for this year is to headline a major Australian festival such as Bathurst’s Village Fair or perhaps even a Groovin’ the Moo tour.
“We’re just out here making good music, that’s what it’s all about,” he said. “If I can buy my way into the Senate AND the House of Reps [sic], then I’ll certainly be able to crack the Hottest 100 next year with a little tax-free donation.”
