In just two years, Figtree musician Alex Tobin has gone from beginner songwriter to stamping his mark on the world music stage.
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Tobin was crowned winner of the international category at the Australian Songwriters Association’s 2013 Songwriters Contest in Sydney this week, his song Last Call beating out contestants from all over the world.
The Australian Songwriters Association confirmed it was the first time an Australian had won the category, which has historically been dominated by American entrants.
“We thought it was a good song, and wanted to put it up against acts from around the world,” Tobin said of entering the hotly contested international category.
“I’ve been playing guitar for years but only started writing songs a few years ago.”
More than 500 entries were received in the international category, with finalists coming from as far afield as Japan, the United States, Canada, Sweden and Switzerland.
Written with Canadian collaborator Neil Devereaux, Last Call is an upbeat indie-pop propelled forward by a shuffling drum beat and Tobin’s own tender, heartfelt lyrics and vocals.
“It came out of a recording session in Canada, where we weren’t really happy with any of the tracks,” Tobin said.