FOOL NELSON
We sat down with Tom from FOOL NELSON recently to talk about what’s been going on!
Fool Nelson, a rising act in the Australian music scene, is a band that thrives on blending infectious pop melodies with gritty grunge and garage elements. At the heart of the band is Tom, the lead guitarist and vocalist, who’s been instrumental in shaping the group’s sound and ethos. With two EPs under their belt and a growing fan base, Fool Nelson is quickly carving out a name for themselves with their high-energy live shows and a sound that captures both the rawness of early rock and the hooks of modern pop.
Rooted in Family
Tom’s love for music wasn’t something that developed overnight. Growing up in a household where music was always playing, he was exposed to a rich tapestry of sounds from a young age. His parents’ vinyl collection, filled with iconic bands like Midnight Oil, Silverchair, U2, and the John Butler Trio, was his musical playground. "It was just always around me," Tom says, reflecting on his upbringing. "My Mum and Dad played music around the house a lot, so it was inevitable that I’d get into it."
That exposure to such diverse influences—spanning everything from rock to folk—has shaped the unique blend of styles Fool Nelson brings to their own music.
Fool Nelson’s music is defined by its ability to pull from multiple genres while still maintaining a cohesive sound. "We love catchy hooks and choruses," Tom explains. "Incorporating pop music and adding grunge and garage elements is what we’re doing with our songwriting right now." It's this fusion of accessibility and grit that has drawn fans to their releases, with their latest single, Don’t Feel Right, receiving especially positive feedback. Tom credits the band’s steady growth to the increasing recognition of their ability to craft songs that stick with you long after they’ve ended.
Behind the Name
When it comes to their name, Fool Nelson, it turns out the band has a bit of fun with their origins. "The name is kind of a play on words," Tom shares. "We got it from a wrestling move, and it just stuck." It’s a fitting choice for a band that’s all about energy and making an impact, both sonically and in their stage presence. Their name may come from an unlikely source, but it’s emblematic of their playful and spirited approach to music.
Garage to the Stage
Fool Nelson wasn’t born out of some grand strategic plan—it’s simply the product of a shared passion for music. "We just love playing music!" Tom claims. That love for creating and performing has led them to key milestones, including a standout performance at Perth's Rechabite. "I’d say our headline show there was a career-defining moment for us," Tom reflects. "The crowd was amazing, and it felt like everything clicked that night."
Live shows, in fact, are something the band holds in high regard. "It’s definitely the funnest aspect of being in a band," Tom states. Whether they’re playing intimate venues or larger spaces, Fool Nelson brings an energy that’s palpable, making their live performances a highlight for both the band and their fans.
What's Next?
Looking ahead, Fool Nelson is focused on creating more music. "I guess just making more music and seeing what happens!" Tom said with optimism. Whether that means new singles, another EP, or perhaps an album, they’re committed to the process and excited to see where their sound takes them next.
In the world of ever growing scenes, Fool Nelson is one to watch. With a blend of catchy pop, gritty grunge, and undeniable stage presence, they’re proving that the love of music—along with a bit of fun—is a formula that resonates with listeners and keeps them coming back for more.