Last years release of the ‘Never too live’ Demo CD is seen by those in the know as the definitive inspiration for the increased popularity of retro-style rock, obviously influencing such bands as Jet and Eskimo Joe. Yet much to the band’s amazement, ‘Never too live’ didn’t even rate a mention, let alone a nomination at this year’s ARIA awards.

Tony Strong spoke to the media saying: “It’s beyond understanding. We thought with the demo receiving critical aclaim  and an American tour in the offering that we’d surely be in with a chance this year, but once again we’ve been overlooked. We’re used to it, but clearly we’re never going to be industry favourites.”

Even Bass player Rudy Morabito’s other band Figjam, was overlooked for Best  Album, with Hi5 now winning the gong 5 years in a row… it’s obvious that Rudy’s connection with Smart Artists is the reason behind this snub too.”

Rumours are even circulating around town that certain other jealous musicians (both local and international) may be behind Smart Artists ostracism from the ARIAs. One overseas artist of note (who played at the Rugby League Grand Final and was a “special guest” on ARIA night but whom we can’t mention for legal reasons) is thought to have sabotaged Smart Artists chances of even receiving an invitation to the event.

He was reportedly seen backstage that night, clutching an award earmarked for Smart Artists and repeating to himself in an almost mantra-like fashion “Baby…you done a bad, BAD thing!” Even the ‘excommunicated’ black sheep of the Aussie music industry, The Vines think Smart Artists has been hard done by. When asked for his opinion on the oversight, Craig Nicholls responded: “Ah, they’re all f*&^%# c#$%s anyway… not the band… I mean the crowd… no, I mean Triple M and the industry and the media and… anyway, Smart Artists are cool!”

Time will no doubt reveal the real culprits behind the band’s exclusion, but for now Smart Artists has high hopes for the future.

As Tony Strong says “I think ‘Never too live’ touches people deep down and that explains its ongoing popularity. It’s a shame it’s become a focal point of this latest scandal to engulf the band, but that aside, we’re now looking forward to the release of the follow up single dedicated to our good friend Bono.