Marcus Rechsteiner is a much loved member of Australia’s underground music scene, fronting lauded punk band ‘The UV Race’ for over a decade now, as well as singing in ‘Guy & Marcus Blackman Experimentation’, and his new group ‘Luxury’ – which debuted last year.
No matter the band he fronts, Marcus’ performance style is in your face and cheeky. With Marcus jittering around the stage with a mixture of confusion and joy on his face. His lyrics exploring dreams and everyday anxieties – such as imagining life as a Lego Minifigure – delivered in a sing-song laconic drawl that occasionally rises to a yelp.
Oh, and Marcus usually sings shirtless or wearing some over the top costume.
There’s simply no other frontman or lyricist quite like him.
Photo by Zephyr Pavey.
Wanting to get to know Marcus a bit better we sent him some questions to answer over email.
You can read it all below:
Getting Acquainted
Name + D.O.B?
Marcus Paul Rechsteiner
27/1/1986
City, State and Country you currently call home?
Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
City, State and Country you’re from?
Warragul, Victoria, Australia
Please describe some memories from key stages of your life: concerts, art, toys, romance, comic books, hunting, school, politics, crime, religion… ANYTHING really!
* Age 5 – beginnings:
I don’t have many memories from this age…
I do remember being obsessed with Batman and the ninja turtles. I would dress up as Batman to go to the supermarket.
(Photos below of Marcus as a kid.)
* Age 15 – getting serious:
Started going to underage gigs.
* Age 20 – young adult:
The Uv race started.
I also started working as a disability support worker which I’m still doing.
Photo by Zephyr Pavey.
* Age 25 – adult mode:
Continue to work and play gigs.
* Age 30 – fully formed:
Gigs start to slow down band mates start having babies.
Music Questions
When and why did you first start to make music?
… and any pivotal music related moment(s) / influence(s)?
The Uv race started when I was 21.
You have played in a few bands over the years! And we would like you to share a memory, tour tale or some stories about your experience with each of them for our readers:
* The UV Race?
A gig I still think about happened on our 2014 European tour. We played a festival in a Seaside town called Binic. It was a beautiful setting and a lot of fun.
* Guy & Marcus Blackman Experimentation?
We supported the Bats (NZ) they didn’t no what to think of us.
* Luxury?
We played a gig at Echo tone guitar shop. Brent the American ( guitarist) went to walk into the crowd but his lead came out and caught up in his peddles.
What do you do for a day job at the moment?
… and how does your day job impact / influence your music practice?
I’m a disability support worker. It doesn’t influence/ impact on my music.
I would love to see more disability accessible venues.
Please describe the usual process involved with creating your music?
I usually come up with Lyrics by my self or with with a band mate. Then the music and lyrics are put together.
Favorite other musicians and bands?
Iggy Pop and the stooges. The Twerps. Gutter Girls.
Any projects you want to hype?
Got a new thing going called Washing Spoons.
If people wanted to work with you, have a chat, book your band or buy something – how should they get in touch?
marcusrechsteiner@hotmail.com
COVID 19 Questions
Covid is impacting us all, bringing with it fear, sickness, financial stress and showing both the best and worst aspects of humanity…
Please share how Covid is affecting the various aspects of your life, namely:
* Your musical practice?
Trying to figure out how to record my vocals using apps.
* Personal relationships?
I’m single so now I’m at cat lady level of being single.
* Mental health?
Trying to keep busy and write lyrics.
Been video chatting my friends.
And what lasting affects do you think Covid 19 will have on humanity in the short, medium and long terms?
Short term is the uncertainty of the situation.
Medium term I hope things return to how they were. I do think more people will work from home.
Long term technology will get even better and the need for offices will lessen.
On a lighter note, what is your lockdown outfit of choice?
My outfit of choice is me in my jocks and a t shirt.
Odds and Ends
What impact has punk and DIY culture and music had on your life and creative expression?
…and what does “punk” mean to you anyhow? It’s given me a great group of friends. It’s great to express myself.
It’s hard to describe what punk means to me.
We know you are quite the Santas Little Elf – as you love giving and receiving presents of all kinds from your friends and fans…
* What are some of the favourite presents you have been given?
[Please include photos or drawings of them!]
My friends sons drew me some pictures for my birthday and I really love them.
* …and what about the best gifts you have given?
Last year at Christmas inspired by my friend Tim I had stubby holders made with a photo of me on them.
* In your opinion what makes a good present, and why?
Something with a personal touch and connects the friendship.
Out of all the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles cast – including humans and villains – which character do you feel most reflects your personality?
Michael Angelo is my favourite character he is the party turtle and loves pizza ?.
Who are some of your style icons – and what is it about their fashion and style that so moves you?
I don’t have any style icons. I don’t follow fashion.
If you could live in any place, during any historical era – where and when would that be? …and why would you choose that time and place?
I first thought NYC in 1977 but I don’t think I would really enjoy that scene. Too much drugs.
Memphis in the sixties for the music and BBQ food.
What role did toys play in your childhood(s)?
I liked collecting troll dolls they were fun.
I didn’t have a lot of toys.
Drugs – waste of time or gateway to the universe?
Waste of time for me not into them but I don’t judge others.
Who was your 1st crush and why?
Dee Dee Ramone what a cheeky boy.
Does sex change everything?
No but it can be fun.
Of everything you have done what would you most like to be remembered for and why?
For putting on a entertaining show.
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