A Quick Chat with Among The Restless

Interview with Rhett form Among The Restless

Can you tell us a bit about your inspiration for your album Seasons?

We decided to make this album about a year and a half ago, and during that period we were experiencing a lot of change. Growing into adults, change in sound and band members, it seemed like everything was turning upside down. All of these songs in one way or another represent our reflection on inevitable change, growth and to accept whatever life throws at you in strides.

What are your influences and how do they affect your songwriting?

Seamus, Lachie and myself all have pretty similar music influences that vary slightly. I’d say personally Nothing But Thieves, Wolf Alice, Sam Fender and Twenty One Pilots were big influences on me during the writing process of Seasons. One thing they all have in common is the introspective lyricism. They make me think. I feel all sorts of different emotions when I listen to their music and I wanted to do the same for whoever listens to us but in our own way. These influences definitely affect the way I write, and personally I feel they have made me a better song writer for it.

What’s the creative process like for you?

The creative process usually starts with either a voice memo from Lachie or a conversation between him and myself. We then spend some time basically getting the bones of the song complete, verses, chorus’, bridges etc. Most of the time with just an acoustic guitar. Once we have the bones complete we send it off to Seamus and our producer Tom Keating to have a listen and get familiar with it. From there we’ll have a handful of songs to start pre prediction, where we really flesh out ideas and make it a proper song. During the actual recording process we have a preeetttyyy good idea of how we want it to sound but are always open to ideas from everyone involved on the day.

If you could change something about the Australian music industry what would it be?

I think there could be more opportunities for smaller acts. Don't get me wrong I think we are so lucky here in Australia, but I’d love to see more events that showcase unknown acts with maybe a big headline to draw people in. I’ve been seeing a few event organisers host ‘Mini Fests’ with some smaller acts on the bill in packed out rooms here in Melbourne, so I don't see why we can’t take more risks in order to set the stage for up and coming acts.

What do you think life would be like for you if you didn’t have music as an outlet?

Life would probably suck! I do have other passions and hobbies but the catharsis of song writing and making music is such an amazing outlet. You also can't beat the excitement of the unknown and playing live shows! it’s literally what we live for.

Is there anyone you would like to collaborate with? Why?

I've always wanted to write a song with a good friend of mine from Bakers Eddy, Ciarran. He has been working with some amazing local acts like REDD, Erica Avenue, Lotte Gallagher and more! He's a master in collaboration and I reckon we'd make something pretty sweet.

What’s your advice to young people who want to make a career for themselves in the industry?

Be prepared for the commitment required. It takes a lot of sacrifices to be successful in this industry. But if you love it, it's worth it. Write lots and lots of songs and don’t be afraid. Stay persistent and make sure you do whatever you can to keep loving the process. It can sometimes get really hard, so it's important to enjoy the little things as you go.

Who’s the most interesting person you’ve worked with/met?

To be honest the most interesting person we've worked with is probably my Dad, Steve James. What a strange and interesting human being he is.

Any plans for a tour on the cards?

OH YEAH! Big tour to celebrate the album release, here are the deets!

Thu 19 Nov 2026 – Society City – Wollongong, NSW
Fri 20 Nov 2026 – Oxford Arts (Gallery Bar) – Sydney, NSW
Sat 21 Nov 2026 – Smiths Alternative – Canberra, ACT
Sat 12 Dec 2026 – Westernport Hotel – San Remo, VIC
Thu 14 Jan 2027 – Vinnies Dive Bar – Gold Coast, QLD
Fri 15 Jan 2027 – Arts Factory – Byron Bay, NSW
Sat 16 Jan 2027 – Black Bear Lodge – Brisbane, QLD
Sat 30 Jan 2027 – Northcote Social Club – Melbourne, VIC

Tickets on sale now