DV8 is a renowned rock band hailing from Newcastle, Australia, that emerged in the early 1980s. Founded by guitarist and vocalist Greg Bryce, the band originated from the power trio Meccalissa, which also featured Mark Middleton on bass and Darrell Mepham on drums. DV8 quickly gained prominence in Newcastle's vibrant music scene, captivating audiences with their energetic, no-frills blues-rock performances.
Throughout the 1980s, 90’s and early 2000’s, DV8 released several charting albums and singles, including "Stab In The Dark," which debuted at number two on the charts, "Back To Basics," "Can You Hear Me," “Big Green Monsters”, and the live album "DV8 Live!" Their original songs explored themes of life, love, surfing, and rock 'n' roll, resonating with large audiences and filling major venues.
The band's lineup has featured notable musicians over the years, such as drummers Brad Heaney, who later joined The Screaming Jets and The Radiators, Kerry Jacobsen of Dragon, Craig “Rosie” Rosevear of Screaming Jets and Travis Suprano, who played with DV8 from 2010 to 2022. Currently Bailey Graeber is in the drum seat. In December 2016, DV8 released the studio album "Like It On Top," showcasing their enduring appeal and musical evolution. Greg Bryce has also written songs that have been recorded on several Screaming Jets albums.
In April 2017, DV8 celebrated the 30th anniversary of their iconic 1987 live performance at Belmont 16s by launching a remastered DVD of the original concert, reaffirming their lasting impact on Newcastle's rock scene.
As the longest-serving original hard rock band in the Hunter region, predating acts like The Screaming Jets and Silverchair, DV8 continues to perform and engage audiences with their dynamic guitar-based rock. Their enduring presence in the music industry is a testament to their talent and the strong connection they've maintained with fans over the decades.
