Mordechai Vanunu- the man whose quest to cease nuclear proliferation in the Middle East was consequently rewarded with betrayal, abduction and illegal imprisonment in the late 80's.
It is his story which inspired Denning Isles to form the band Mordechai, which fuses an eclectic mix of styles, from rock to electronic to world.
The band Mordechai has become Isles' personal project and passion since first hearing of Vanunu's story at the age of 16. Isles' deep admiration and fascination in this politically fuelled story remains a strong influence over his personal work, evident in the recent release of his first EP appropriately entited 'Abduction'.
"I try to make my music multilayered, both technicaly and conceptaly", Isles says. "Some of the songs are told using metaphores to tell Mordechai's story, but in a way in which I feel people can relate to on a more personal level, myself included. I don't think everyone who hears my music always makes the connection between the music and the story, but I like to think my music can stand alone to be enjoyed. But ofcourse in saying that I personally feel that when people do understand the cntext of the work it makes it more powerful. Mordechai is one of those unsung heroes, but for a fleeting moment his personal decision effected world events".
The band Mordechai began as a solo project, but in recent times recruited guitarist Ash Jatten (The Trojans) and pianist Reuben Rose (Tatterdemalion, Lillian's Wall,, The Attic).
Mordechai has played throughout New South Wales, but calls Sydney and it's surrounding suburbs home. With a growing fan base and more and more interstate gigs, Mordechai is a band worth looking out for.
