Mokoan from Melbourne mixes old school rock and roll with a more modern sound to come up with their signature mix of super relatable tunes. They’re really psyched to bring their unique sound to as many new listeners as possible and they’re kicking off that effort at The Espy on May 10th for round one of Emergenza Festival Australia. Be sure to head down to The Espy to hear them play. And while you’re waiting for them to go on, check out our interview with the band before the show.

WHAT’S THE INSPIRATION FOR THE NAME MOKOAN?
Mokoan was chosen by me. Mokoan is a name of a truck rest area. It's a name I felt that best describes me—an open highway full of Inspiration.

WHO PLAYS WHAT IN THE BAND?
Paul Moleta – lead vocalist and songwriter of all original material, main rhythm/lead guitarist; Adrian Moleta – drummer/backing vocalist; Pat Bonanno – 2nd rhythm guitarist, lead and backing vocalist; and Tony Corsetti – bassist.

HOW ARE YOU DIFFERENT FROM OTHER POP ROCK BANDS?
I have my own idiosyncratic style of writing songs and blending old school rock with modern sound.

WHERE DO YOU DRAW YOUR INSPIRATION FOR SONGWRITING?
I draw my inspiration from all kinds of meaningful messages that all people can connect and relate too.

WHERE HAVE YOU PLAYED BEFORE AND WHAT WOULD YOUR DREAM GIG BE?
We have played in a few different song fests around Australia. Mokoan is fairly new to the scene. My dream and vision is to perform original material to as many people in as many nations possible across the globe.

HOW ARE YOU PREPARING FOR THE SHOW AT THE ESPY?
With heart & soul!

WITH OTHER BATTLE OF THE BANDS COMPETITIONS AROUND, WHAT MADE YOU CHOOSE EMERGENZA?
We feel it's a great opportunity to be able to spread our wings and hopefully perform outside Australia.

For more details on the show at The Espy, May 10th, click here.