At 24, Sepora has spent the last few years gradually familiarizing herself with the live music scene in Sydney, allowing time for personal growth and maturity to develop both in her songwriting and singing style. These years have also seen Sepora exposed to some of the harsh realities and pitfalls faced by aspiring artists in the music industry. While these experiences were difficult lessons to learn, they have not dampened Sepora's inherent love of performing live music and this love is evident every time she performs.
Born in Samoa and raised in Christchurch, NZ, Sepora's first introduction to music came naturally with her father's occupation as a church minister. Surrounded by religious music at church and school, Sepora sought refuge in her older sisters' vinyl collection and would often escape by listening to UB40 and David Bowie.
At 13, a family move saw Sepora relocating to Sydney, where she took advantage of the various arts subjects on offer. Drama, Photography, Music, and Visual Arts all got some of Sepora's attention during those high school years. Finally at 18, Sepora, (who considers herself a late bloomer), decided to pursue Music at TAFE Entertainment, where she subsequently earned her Adv. Diploma in Music Performance and truly excelled in composition.
After graduating, Sepora spent the first 18 months cutting her teeth on the acoustic gig circuit in Sydney. Performing solo, Sepora showcased her original material against a solid backdrop of well chosen covers. Occasional guests helped to keep the dream alive, until finally, (after much searching), Sepora was able to launch her full backing band in August 2009. Their first performance took place at The Steyne in Manly when Sepora was invited to sing as part of the notable 'Pop Tarts' collective.
As a proud supporter of the Oasis Youth Support Network in Sydney, Sepora has performed at various Oasis events, advocating the fight against Youth Homelessness.
In just April of this year, Sepora ran a Charity event at the business park where she works called ‘Play for the Quake’, where all proceeds raised were donated to the NZ Red Cross – Christchurch Earthquake Appeal. Sepora and her guitarist Neil Beaver (Spy vs. Spy) played to the lunchtime crowd, and raised $930 which was matched dollar for dollar by The Australand Foundation.
In her musical adventures, Sepora has played alongside Casey Donovan, The Verses, Mark Vincent, Only the Sea Slugs, and Amy Meredith, as well as having blessed many a stage with her soulful tones - perhaps most notably the Surry Hills Festival, Luna Park's Big Top, as well as performing in the Sydney Town Hall.
Last August, Sepora retreated to the mountains with her backing band and laid down 'The Paper Bag' EP - a limited edition of live recordings available for purchase at their live shows. Ultimately, the sales of this EP will help fund the release of her debut studio EP, featuring Jon Howell on drums (Leonardo's Bride, Chase the Sun), and her producer, Steve Bull on bass (Icehouse).
With a style that falls under the broad umbrella of Alternative Pop with shades of Funk, Rock, and Soul, this fiery songstress is gathering momentum for the release of her debut studio EP later this year. Those of you who are already familiar with her unique sound have a lot to look forward to. Those of you who have yet to be introduced to Sepora's sound, will soon hear what you've been missing.
www.seporamusic.com
