ICONIC Australian pop rock band Thirsty Merc has delivered a signature performance after a big crowd of all ages turned out to see them at the Musicians’ Club in Broken Hill last Friday.
The band, which is gearing up to perform at the 2025 Mundi Mundi Bash, played a collection of its greatest hits; from Mousetrap Heart to early 2000s anthem In the Summertime.
Featuring Rai Thistlethwayte as lead vocalist, Phil Stack on bass guitar and Matt Smith on lead guitar, the popular band has lost none of its pulling power, with the venue reaching capacity within an hour.
Country boy Mr Stack is the founding member of the band, playing since 2002.
“I grew up in Dubbo so I’m from central west NSW, so there’s a kind of connection (to Broken Hill) there,” he said.
The band, which has played live for decades, is in the middle of their latest tour.
“We’ve been going for about six weeks, and it’s been received wonderfully,” Mr Stack said.
“It’s one of our best tours ever really.
“The love for this band seems to get larger in a lot of ways.
“I think there’s multi-generational appeal going on now with the Spotify generation finding out about our music.
“We’re getting parents and their kids coming along.”
The band is very keen to play at Mundi Mundi next year, with Mr Stack reminiscing on his time playing in the Outback previously.
“It was such a great energy out there, such a beautiful part of the world,” he said.
“I remember that drive heading out there and the way the sun hits the earth, it’s so peaceful.”
Reflecting on his two decades plus in the band, Mr Stack said he was grateful to still be in a popular Australian band.
“I’m ever more grateful for the way we’ve been part of the Australian musical landscape,” he said.
“Gradually getting to that heritage act, which maybe once I dreaded that that term, but I’m really grateful for it now.
“I’m very proud to be one of those bands that play live a lot.”
