Formed after the Cairns music and entertainment industry was brought to a stop during the COVID-19 pandemic, this group of five exceptionally talented local musicians united to breathe new life into the music scene. Flying under the radar FUNHOUSE prefer quality gigs to quantity. A house favourite at Bar 36, they also play Corporate events such as The Cairns Cup, and 4 years in a row at the renowned Port Douglas Carnivale. FUNHOUSE brings a fresh, eclectic mix of hits from the 70s, 80s and beyond to the stage—serving up covers you won’t find anywhere else. Get ready for a lively experience that puts the FUN back in da HOUSE
COME SEE US AT THE BULL BAR SUNDAY 11TH OCTOBER 11.30PM -12.30PM
Members Consist of:
Julia Petratos – Lead Vocals
Julia Petratos is a powerhouse vocalist whose musical roots began during childhood. She began piano lessons at 4 years old, and went on to learn various instruments throughout her youth. By 16 years old, Julia was performing in cover bands in various venues and at corporate events around Far North Queensland as a lead vocalist, keyboard player and guitarist. In 2015 and 2016, Julia was selected to participate in the prestigious Griffith Conservatorium State Honours Ensemble Program.
Now as the lead vocalist of Funhouse, Julia brings a dynamic blend of rock, soul, and R&B influence to the band. With her powerful voice, she seamlessly shifts between high-energy rock anthems, soulful and funky disco hits and iconic ballads, captivating audiences with every note.
Paul Scofield – Bassist / Vocals
Paul Scofield is a highly experienced bassist and vocalist with a wealth of musical knowledge. Throughout his career, he’s played alongside iconic Australian artists including Renee Geyer, Johnny O’Keefe, and Stevie Wright. He’s also supported numerous renowned acts like Cold Chisel, Split Enz, Angels, Midnight Oil, Mental as Anything, Hoodoo Gurus, Paul Kelly, Skyhooks and many more.
Paul formed and fronted the band ‘Passion’ which toured Australia. On top of his career performing, Paul has extensive experience in live sound, having worked as Senior Audio Engineer at the Townsville Civic Theatre and sound engineer for the Australian Army during concerts in East Timor. Along with his longtime friend and drummer, Ray Lamari, Paul formed the bands The Wait and later Funhouse, both of which have gained popularity in the local music scene. With Paul’s expert basslines and Ray’s tight drumming, Funhouse delivers a rhythm section that truly rocks.
Ray Lamari – Drums / Vocals
Born in Sicily and raised in the vibrant town of Ayr, Ray Lamari’s passion for music ignited at the age of 14 when he taught himself the drums and began playing in a local band at the Burdekin International Club. Ray claims his strict sense of time and feel is the outcome of those early gigs. Ray has played in several pub rock bands over the years, including Karma, The Wait, and Funhouse.
Having toured on the East Coast circuit for many years in the late 80s, Ray has had the privilege of supporting some of Australia’s biggest acts, including Jimmy Barnes, Icehouse, The Screaming Jets, Uncanny X-Men, The Radiators, John Paul Young, The Choirboys, Men at Work and many more. However opening for INXS in Toowoomba during their 1987 World Kick Tour to an audience of 20,000, was a standout.
Since settling in Cairns in 1990, Ray has become a staple of the local music scene, teaming up with long term friend Paul Scofield to create the powerhouse rhythm section behind Funhouse.
Danny Johnson – Lead Guitar / Vocals
Danny is an accomplished Australian guitarist with more than three decades of live performance experience, known as much for his expressive guitar work as his quick wit and infectious sense of humour. Performing with his signature Fender Stratocaster, Gibson SG guitars and Ulbrick amplification, he has toured extensively throughout Australia, sharing stages with iconic acts including The Angels, Screaming Jets, Icehouse, Jet, Wolfmother and Busby Marou. Blending blues, rock and funk with expressive slide guitar, Danny draws inspiration from legends including Jimi Hendrix, Derek Trucks and Santana, bringing passion, personality and unmistakable energy to every performance.
Alex Maher – Keyboards/ Vocals
Alex Maher is a Cairns Based Keyboardist, who has played in original band and a 10 piece Corporate outfit. Cutting his teeth in the Industry at the tender age of 16 in Sydney, he favours the classic sounds of the Hammond, Rhodes and of course a touch of Synth! He’s supported artists including John Cleary, The Hoodoo Gurus, Custard and performed at the iconic Sydney Opera House, Melbourne Casino and the steps of Parliament House. A one of the new member of FUNHOUSE, Alex adds a great cutting edge, and vibrant talent to band!
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