Two local boys voice their talent



Published Thursday 2 July 2015

Remember when we all got excited about local superstar Danny Ross when he reached the final four of Channel 10 blockbuster TV Talent show, The Voice.  Well now we've got twice the thrill as not one but two Douglas Shire local boys have blasted their way through the Blind auditions and selected their mentors.

First came 25-year-old Chris Hoskin.  Chris works full-time as a tree arborist (tree doctor). While he enjoys his day job, he stillsfinds time to dedicate to his music and his band 'Jack Runaway' based in the Douglas Shire where he is the lead singer and songwriter.

Musically Chris has drawn on many personal experiences in his life including the death of his father, who died in his arms from a heart attack. He wrote ëOuroborosí, a song about his late father, over 10 years - he wanted to be proud to dedicate it to his dad.

Chris is a self-taught singer, songwriter and guitarist who is attracted to music with heart and soul that touches the listener emotionally.  He names male artists Jeff Buckley, Bon Iver and James Vincent Morrow as his biggest musical influences.

He selected Team Jessie to motivate him through the next rounds of th competition.

And then came Mikhail Laxton, also known by his stage name Black Indie, is an Indigenous singer/songwriter. Raised in Mossman near Port Douglas, Mikhail grew up fishing and playing rugby but was drawn to music like his dad and uncle before him. 

Mikhail began pursuing a career in music seven years ago.  He left two full-time jobs to work in Brisbane as a resident musician at Youth With A Mission where he helps develop the students in their craft of music ñ a role he is very passionate about.He selected to join Team Madden to battle on to the next rounds of the competition.

To see their performances check out the Voice website: Click the link below http://www.9jumpin.com.au/show/thevoice/episodes/