Thirsty Merc will be playing at the Shoalhaven Heads Bowling Club on Friday, November 17.

Thirsty Merc formed in Sydney in 2002 releasing their debut EP, First Work, in September 2003 before being signed to Warner Music.  

The band’s big break came in 2004 with the release of their debut, self-titled, album which included the hits, Someday Someday and In The Summertime (the theme for Bondi Rescue since 2006).

Lead singer Rai Thistlethwayte said he’s looking forward to performing on the South Coast. 

“This tour is a bit different as it’s an anniversary tour,” he said. 

“There’s a sense of nostalgia about it. We will be performing old favourites, as well as some from the vault that aren’t very well-known.

“It’s a special time. Quite a few of the shows are already sold out, one in Sydney and one in Melbourne, so we’re pretty amped about it.”

With a bass player father and piano player mother, Rai always had a musical future ahead of him. 

He met the other band members in a Sydney sharehouse and in the past eight years, has become a songwriting mentor. 

He also teaches at TAFEs, universities and high schools and was involved in an APRA-funded course on the demystification of the songwriting process. 

With a father who teaches French, German, Indonesian and Japanese, Rai said teaching has come naturally. 

“It’s great doing that, teaching is in the family. I get a lot of enjoyment from it,” he said. 

Rai said Thirsty Merc’s musical journey has varied over the years and the band is now primarily self-managed. 

The band is looking forward to thanking everyone for their support. 

“This tour is a big thank you to everyone who’s sung along with us over the years,” Rai said. 

“It’s thanks to the fans that we’re still here, loving life and music 15 years later,” lead singer Rai Thistlethwayte said.

Tickets are now available for $40 from Shoalhaven Heads Bowling Club or by calling 4448 7154. Tickets can be collected one hour before the performance at reception.