Epicure’s Juan Alban and The Dead Salesmen’s Hap Hayward Team Up for New Single: Went Down Fighting

Former members of Australian bands Epicure and The Dead Salesmen collaborate on a new single after years of friendship and admiration.

Juan Alban, known for his time in the band Epicure, and Hap Hayward, lead vocalist of The Dead Salesmen, have joined forces to release a new single titled “Went Down Fighting.” The collaboration between the two musicians marks a significant moment in their friendship and mutual respect for each other’s work. The song, which was initially written during a series of late-night sessions in 2008, has now been transformed into a powerful and energetic track with the help of producer Cam McKenzie. “Went Down Fighting” explores themes of loss and resilience, reflecting the experiences and emotions of both artists.

Epicure and The Dead Salesmen: A Shared Musical History

Juan Alban and Hap Hayward both hail from Ballarat, Victoria, and have been active participants in the local music scene. The Dead Salesmen, formed in the late eighties by Hayward and guitarist Justin Ryda, gained popularity alongside Epicure during the 90s and 2000s. Both bands showcased the thriving music scene in Ballarat and left a lasting impact on the Australian music landscape.

The Journey to Collaboration

Alban and Hayward’s paths crossed during their respective band days, and a friendship developed over the years. In 2008, they decided to explore the possibility of writing songs together. The sessions resulted in a collection of unfinished tracks, which were eventually stored away and forgotten. However, one song stood out – “Went Down Fighting” – and Hayward included it in his lyric book, “Songs About You,” in 2012. Fast forward to 2023, and the two musicians decided to revisit the song and give it the attention it deserved.

The Transformation of “Went Down Fighting”

With the guidance of producer Cam McKenzie, Alban and Hayward added new layers of lyrics, melodies, and textures to “Went Down Fighting.” The song, once a delicate acoustic sketch, has now evolved into a powerful and electrifying anthem. The lyrics convey a sense of loss and the determination to stand up for what has been lost, paying homage to those who are no longer present to do so themselves. The transformation of the song from a whispered creation to a bold and urgent statement reflects the growth and maturity of both artists over the years.

A Thrilling Collaboration

For Alban, collaborating with Hayward and The Dead Salesmen has been a dream come true. As a young musician growing up in Ballarat, he idolized Hayward and his band. The opportunity to work together on “Went Down Fighting” has allowed Alban to fulfill a long-held ambition and create something meaningful with his musical hero.

The Relevance of “Went Down Fighting”

“Went Down Fighting” carries a timeless message that resonates with audiences today. The song’s exploration of loss and resilience strikes a chord, reminding listeners of the importance of standing up for what they believe in, even in the face of adversity. The track’s evolution from a modest creation to a powerful anthem demonstrates the enduring power of music to capture and convey complex emotions.

Conclusion:

The collaboration between Juan Alban and Hap Hayward on the single “Went Down Fighting” represents a significant moment in their musical careers. The song’s transformation from a forgotten acoustic sketch to a bold and urgent statement showcases the growth and maturity of both artists. Through their collaboration, Alban and Hayward have created a powerful anthem that resonates with audiences, reminding them of the importance of resilience and standing up for what they believe in. “Went Down Fighting” is a testament to the enduring power of music and the lasting impact of friendship and mutual admiration in the world of art.


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