SCOTT Aplin will be at the “office” at day-break on Monday facing a 12-hour countdown to the next live show of Channel 9’s The Voice.
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The Albury High old boy’s first venture on the box has been a runaway hit and the son of local MP Greg has strapped himself in for the ride.
Aplin takes on the dual role of musical director and keyboard player in the band behind those with “the voice”.
His days are long, collaborating with international music star coaches Seal, Joel Madden, Delta Goodrem and Keith Urban — translating their wants into musical arrangements and leading the band, a head nod the conductor’s baton.
“It was madness in the beginning — 130 acts in the blind auditions and the band needing to know every song,” he said.
“But these days there is a little more control.
“Monday is a busy day but regimented and like most (other days), 12 hours solid work.
“It’s full dress rehearsals — making sure that contestants are comfortable, that all the lights go off at the right time, the music is right.”
Aplin has become one of the most accomplished keyboard players on the Australian rock scene, having regularly played with the likes of Goodrem, Jimmy Barnes, Noiseworks and Silverchair.
He says the talent on The Voice is extraordinary.
“For many of them it is the first time on national television, confronted by a stage that big,” he said.
“They are an extraordinary talent — a mix of up-and-comers and seasoned professionals who have been knocking on the door of major recording contracts for some time.”
Aplin started on The Voice late last year, a call out of the blue to gauge his interest.
“When I checked out the US version of the show it was an automatic yes,” he said.
“So I’ve just strapped myself in for the ride.”
Aplin said producers were talking of a second season, so he was preparing to do it all again next year.
