Since 1996, Crakajak has delivered some of the most exciting and energetic Country Americana shows in Australia.

Now with the new inclusion of David Briggs, formally of The Little River Band, Crakajak are eager to make the next 10 years even more awesome for their fans. David Brigg's world-wide hit songs include "Happy Anniversary Baby" and "Lonesome Loser". David was recently inducted into the ARIA Awards Hall of Fame.

Crakajak’s popularity began playing the legendary Australian Bachelor and Spinsters Balls and Rodeos throughout the country. It was not long before this band was sharing headline bills in Australia’s Country Music Capital Tamworth, the Toyota Gympie Muster Music Festival and other major Country Music Festivals around Australia.

Members:
Harry Nanos: Lead Vocals (Guitar)
David Briggs: Lead Guitar
Tony Arena: Lead Guitar
Steve Tsotsos: Drums
Rob Walker: Bass
Jay Williams: Harmonica (Fiddle, Mandolin)
Rick Leatherman: Manager (Executive Producer)

Who Are Crakajak

Since its formation in 1996; Crakajak has delivered some of the most exciting and energetic Country Americana music shows in Australia.

Now with the new inclusion of David Briggs, formally of The Little River Band, Crakajak are eager to make the next 10 years even more awesome for their fans. David Brigg's world-wide hit songs include "Happy Anniversary Baby" and "Lonesome Loser".

A little history...Crakajak’s popularity began playing the legendary Australian Bachelor and Spinsters Balls and Rodeos throughout the country. It was not long before this band was sharing headline bills in Australia’s Country Music Capital Tamworth, the Toyota Gympie Muster Music Festival and other major Country Music Festivals around Australia.

Band Members
Harry Jon Nanos (Lead Vocals, Guitar, & Songwriter) has worked professionally in the music industry for over 20 years as a recording studio owner, composer, musician & performer. He has won many awards over the years in his lead role with Crakajak. Today Harry continues to develop fresh new music for Crakajak, including the soon to be released Album “10.”, celebrating Crakajak’s 10 year history.

David Briggs (Lead Guitar), recently inducted into the ARIA Awards Hall of fame for his contribution to the Little River Band.
"What the induction into the Hall of Fame meant to me, as a member of that select group, was a public appreciation of the contribution, both musical and social, that we took to the world as representatives of the Australian music industry at that time, and for the quality of the music we made. For me, joining LRB was the opportunity to be a part of what I knew was a great band, making great music, and bringing it to a world stage". - David Briggs

Rob Walker (Bass Guitar, Backing Vocals, & Songwriter) has worked in the music industry both as a Performer and within Executive roles for over 25 years. Rob is a published songwriter and performed in some of Australia’s biggest recording bands over the past 25 years.

Mark Donahoe (Rhythm Guitar, & Songwriter) is a recent addition to the Crakajak team, adding further dimension to this great Aussie band. Mark brings to Crakajak, 20 years of music industry experience, both as a performer and for his production and songwriting skills. Mark joined Crakajak after major success with the highly successful band, Magnificent 7, who were twice nominated for the most prestigious Australian Music Award, The Golden Guitar Award. In 1994, Becky Cole won the Golden Guitar Award for Best New Talent, with Mark’s song, “Fool in Around”.
In 1995, Felicity recorded Mark’s song “Follow Me” and won a nomination for best female vocalist at the Golden Guitar Awards.

Jay Williams (Harp, Fiddle, Mandolin) is Mr. Instrumental and is responsible for the band’s ability to stretch the boundaries of Country/Americana music. Jay joined Crakajak in its early days and has been a prominent and popular member of Crakajak. Jay has appeared on many Australian Independent Albums.

Tony Arena (Lead Guitar) is a seasoned and exceptionally talented guitarist/songwriter. Tony’s guitar playing reflects Crakajak’s signature and individual sound. With 25 years of experience in the Australian music industry and countless appearances as a session guitarist on Australian albums, Tony is one of the most respected musicians. Tony and Harry formed Crakajak.

Steve Tsotsos (Drums/Percussion) joined Crakajak in 2002 and drives the infectious grooves that Crakajak is renowned for. Steve has been a professional drummer and has worked in the Australian music industry for over 15 years.
Steve prefers us not to say to many words about him, rather let his sticks speak.

Awards
2005 - "She Weeps Alone" final 5 Group/Duo in the Victorian Country Music Awards
2003 - Best Band, Victorian Country Music Awards
1999 - Best Band, Victorian Country Music Awards
1999 - Runner up Best Country Song, Australian Songwriters Association Award