
Sunsick, a sun-soaked indie surf rock band hailing from Boorloo (Perth), WA, is quickly making a name for itself in Australia’s vibrant music scene. Comprised of Dominique, Bailey, and Zavier, the trio blends modern surf rock with dreamy nostalgia, creating a sound that’s both laid-back and powerful.
The band has already gained significant momentum in 2023, supporting some of Australia’s most beloved acts, including Great Gable, The Moving Stills, and Old Mervs. As they move into 2024, Sunsick is set to take their debut EP, BURNT FEET, on their own WA Summer Tour. With singles like “Burnt Feet” and “Friend of Mine” earning airplay on Triple J's Home & Hosed, it’s clear that the trio is on the cusp of something big.
Their journey continues with the release of “Breakwater Drive” in July 2024, alongside their debut music video, promising even more new tunes, live shows, and studio time. And in January 2025, Sunsick kicked off the year with their highly anticipated single, "In This Light," marking a fresh chapter as they head into their next phase.
I recently caught up with Dominique to chat about Sunsick’s evolution, creative process, and what the future holds for the band.
Sunsick’s Identity and Sound:
“We’ve been described as sun-soaked, nostalgic, and hard-hitting storytellers,” Dom explains, reflecting on how their sound is often perceived. “That’s honestly a pretty cool way to describe us. We have an indie surf rock sound, but at its core, we’re just three best mates making music we love. It’s really cool that people are picking up on the vibe we’re putting out there.”
Sunsick’s chemistry is undeniable, and it’s something that stands out when they hit the stage. “We’ve been playing together since we were 16 or 17, and I think that’s a unique thing about us. The bond we have makes us special, and I think it comes through when we perform. It’s the best feeling playing live with people you’re so close to, and it’s amazing to see how it resonates with the audience.”
Musical Roots
Their musical journey started with jam sessions at Bailey’s house, covering songs by bands like Kings of Leon, Spacey Jane, and Hockey Dad. “We found out we were all into the same styles of music, and that’s what got us started. We played a few covers, and it just grew from there,” Dom says.
As for musical inspiration, Sunsick’s influences are clear: “We’re all heavily inspired by Kings of Leon and Spacey Jane. But we also have individual influences that come into play. Those two bands are probably the biggest when it comes to shaping our sound.”
Evolution of Their Sound
Looking back on their early days, Dom admits that their sound has evolved significantly. “We started off playing cover shows, which didn’t last long. Once we began writing our own music, it felt like we really found our groove. Our early songs were a lot heavier—just excited kids making noise—but we’ve definitely toned things down over time. We’ve focused more on storytelling and refined our guitar tones, making everything a bit more deliberate.”
Sunsick’s creative process is collaborative, with Dom typically writing the lyrics while Zavier and Bailey bring in riffs or chord progressions. “It’s always a jam session to start, and once we have something that feels right, we work together to refine it. It’s about finding the vibe that fits the story we’re telling,” Dom explains.
Performing and Influences
When asked about who they’d love to open for, Dom’s answer is immediate: “Spacey Jane. I know it’s an obvious choice for an indie band, but they’re just incredible, and it would be amazing to learn from them. I think I could really pick their brains and take some inspiration from their energy.”
Dom also reveals how she channels her musical idols when performing. “I draw a lot of inspiration from Michael Hutchence (INXS) and Amy Winehouse. Their stage presence, their ‘I don’t give a damn’ attitude—it’s something I try to channel when I perform. I think it helps me connect with the audience and really express what the song is about.”
Navigating the Music Industry and the Internet
In today’s digital age, Dom recognises the importance of a solid online presence but also acknowledges the challenges it brings. “Social media has completely changed the music industry. As musicians, we’re not just performers—we’re influencers now. It’s exhausting sometimes, but it can also be really helpful if done right. For smaller bands, though, it’s tough to get taken seriously without a strong social media following.”
Despite the pressures of modern-day music promotion, Dom remains grateful for the fans who have supported Sunsick’s journey. “We’re so thankful for everyone who’s followed us, connected with our music, and been a part of our story. We write from the heart, and it means the world when people connect with that.”
Looking Ahead
As for what’s next, Sunsick is already eyeing the future. “We’re hoping to get back in the studio soon—maybe release a couple of singles before we drop our sophomore EP. After that, we definitely want to hit the road again, and this time, we’re aiming to get over east. We’ve never toured outside WA, so it’s definitely time to get our asses over there.”
With their debut EP BURNT FEET already making waves, Sunsick is poised to take 2024 by storm, and beyond. Whether they’re playing live, writing new music, or navigating the ever-changing music landscape, one thing is clear: these three best mates are in it for the long haul.